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Modern research points to the importance of both a personalized approach to health care, including high-quality preclinical laboratory diagnostics, preventive nutrition and the construction of individual nutrition protocols, and favorable microenvironmental conditions in general. However, to achieve optimal results, it is necessary not only to take into account the individual characteristics of an individual person, but also to use advanced technologies. An analysis of existing methods and technologies in the field of personalized nutrition, precision foodomics and bioinformatics, as well as their contribution to health protection, has been carried out. Key aspects of these areas have been reviewed and directions for further research and practical implementation have been suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of studying of the Precambrian metasedimentary sequences of the Junggar terrane located in Southern Kazakhstan. In the structure of the Junggar terrane, we studied the rocks of the Sarychabyn Group and Kosagash Formation. Petrogeochemical data, combined with the results of U‒Pb and Lu‒Hf isotope-geochronological studies of detrital zircons, indicate that the Sarychabyn Group and Kosagash Formation are a single stratigraphic unit that accumulated during the Late Mesoproterozoic and Early Neoproterozoic (approximately 1026–920 Ma). The Mesoproterozoic and Paleoproterozoic complexes are believed to be the main sources of detrital zircon populations. These complexes include medium- and high grade metabasites and metapelites, as well as felsic igneous rocks that formed from different sources. The evolution of the Junggar terrane in the Late Precambrian is similar to the tectonomagmatic evolution of the Aktau–Mointy, Yili, Issyk-Kul, Chinese Central Tien Shan, and the Northern Kazakhstan terranes. At that time, the terranes were a single continental block that was located near the Sveconorwegian orogen in the western part of the Baltica paleocontinent during the formation of the Rodinia supercontinent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of studies of microrelief parameters and electrophysical characteristics of "silicon on insulator" structures after exposure to gamma and gamma neutron radiation. Experimental studies were carried out using the methods of atomic force microscopy and pseudo-MOS transistor. On the basis of the data obtained, an estimate was made of the average size and area of the space charge of clusters of radiation defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work focuses on the development of a fluorimetric version of the fingerprint method based on conducting indicator reactions in the presence of a test sample. Observation of these reactions over time provides a more detailed information compared to batch methods, thereby improving sample recognition and enabling quantitative analysis. The proposed indicator reaction utilizes a commercial carbocyanine dye and 4-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde, whose interaction results in a decrease in fluorescence intensity and changes in absorbance over time. Three fluoroquinolones—moxifloxacin, levofloxacin, and ofloxacin—selectively change the signal in concentrations of 1 μM or higher, while other drugs, including different fluoroquinolones, do not interfere with the determination. Ofloxacin was detected in human urine samples at various times post-drug intake. A potential of using the same indicator reaction for sample recognition was demonstrated on examples of apple juices, soil extracts, and meat of varying freshness. Chemometric methods, including linear discriminant analysis, were used for data processing. The method achieved 97% accuracy in discriminating fifteen apple juice samples, 94% accuracy for ten apple juices from 2022 and 2023, 99% accuracy for ten soil samples, and successfully determined the freshness of five meat samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present investigations were undertaken to record the vulnerability of testis to nickel oxide nano and microparticles in Wistar rat with special reference to their preferred bioaccumulation, consequent generation of reactive species, reciprocal influence on testosterone synthesis, DNA damage in spermatids and histopathological changes. Suitable numbers of rats were gavaged NiONPs or NiOMPs (5 mg/kg b.w.each) for 15 and 30 days. Testes en bloc were removed and processed for the estimation of selected parameters. Results showed that rat testes could accumulate nickel in an exposure time dependent manner. Generation of malondialdehyde, a denominator of ROS, increased significantly in the testes of NiONPs treated rats. Moreover, serum testosterone values also increased in NiONPs treated rats. Higher DNA damage in sperms was also recorded. Nano and microparticles of nickel, both could induce specific dose and time dependent lesions in the testis of rat. Histopathological results revealed degeneration of germinal epithelium and spermatocytes; hypertrophy of seminiferous tubules and necrosis. SEM results also indicated specific morphological changes in cellular components of tubules. This study suggests that testis is also vulnerable to the adverse effects of NiONPs alike liver and kidney. Both micro and nanoparticles of nickel elicited differential effects in a dose and exposure time dependent manner. However, NiONPs induced greater overall toxicity than NiOMPs. The results are expected to be helpful in determining the human reproductive health risks, associated with environmental/ occupational exposure to nanoparticles of nickel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fast component (0.7–18 MeV) of the neutron spectrum at the Pneumatic Fast Transfer System (PFTS) in the KAMINI reactor was determined by irradiating threshold activation foils. The acquired reaction rates are subsequently unfolded using SAND-II code. The KAMINI reactor was modelled in the MCNP-4B code for an estimate of neutron spectrum at the PFTS location, which was subsequently used as the initial apriori solution for the SAND-II code. The unfolded fast component spectrum at the PFTS was found to be similar to that of the fast benchmark GODIVA and JEZEBEL-23. Moreover, the investigation is substantiated by incorporating modified spectra to estimate the theoretical yield of radioisotopes 32P at PFTS using a Monte Carlo simulation against its experimental yield. The results agree with an accuracy of 6%, affirming the credibility of the derived spectrum. Theoretical yields of 89Sr, 64Cu, and 47Sc were also estimated at the same location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monel K500 is a high strength, precipitation hardenable, nickel-copper alloy with additions of Al and Ti, having excellent corrosion resistance and ignition resistance to high pressure gaseous oxygen. However, this alloy is highly sensitive to hot workability and is crack prone during hot deformation. This study investigates the effect of hot workability parameters such as temperature, strain rate, and overall strain on the microstructure evolution. The hot deformability of this alloy was studied using isothermal hot compression tests in the temperature range of 850 °C to 1150 °C and at strain rates ranging from 10− 3 to 10 s− 1, using a Gleeble 3800 thermo-mechanical simulator. The flow behaviour was analysed using stress-strain and strain hardening plots. Initial microstructure of the material has as-cast dendritic structure, while microstructural analysis of hot deformed samples revealed gradual reconstitution with increasing temperature and decreasing strain rate. Hot deformed samples showed traces of recrystallized grains and carbides across the matrix at high temperatures and low strain rates. EBSD GROD mapping further elucidates the variation of microstructural features with variation of strain rate. In accordance with the Ziegler instability criterion, processing maps were constructed for a true strain of 0.65, encompassing deformation temperatures between 850 °C and 1150 °C, and strain rates ranging from 0.001 to 10 s− 1. Through an examination of strain rate sensitivity map, processing map and analysis of deformation activation energy, both undesirable (unstable) and potentially favourable (stable) hot deformation parameters were identified. Instability regions in the processing maps were validated with the microstructural features of deformed samples of cast Monel K500 alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edge computing has become quintessential in commercial, healthcare, and industrial applications. It enables real-time data processing at the edge device, thus reducing the data traffic to the cloud and increasing the processing time efficiency. As an edge device, modern System-on-Chips (SoCs) provide scalability, security, and development in an integrated platform. Intellectual Property (IP) core reuse is a boon in SoCs that bridges the gap between integrated circuit design and fabrication. Such edge devices modeled by vendors are bound to ensure high security to avoid piracy. The proposed architecture provides a two-step authentication utilizing a Finite State Machine (FSM) with a secured key obtained from the newly structured Physical Unclonable Function (PUF) within the same edge device, with the primary goal of verifying several heterogeneous IPs to achieve the least power and energy. Two PUF designs, Anderson Arbiter PUF (AA-PUF) and Balanced AA-PUF, have been proposed for two different placements taking advantage of SoC-based architecture. The PUF characteristics have been experimentally validated with and without majority voting and demonstrate their proximity close to the desired value in ZedBoard. The proposed design is a strong PUF with less than 15% area overhead and power dissipation of 1.982 W for a 64-bit response. The experimental validation has evaluated that the power and energy consumptions are 2.56 W and 2.17 J for 52 heterogeneous IPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quasi-periodic eruptions (QPEs) are luminous bursts of soft X-rays from the nuclei of galaxies, repeating on timescales of hours to weeks1–5. The mechanism behind these rare systems is uncertain, but most theories involve accretion disks around supermassive black holes (SMBHs) undergoing instabilities6–8 or interacting with a stellar object in a close orbit9–11. It has been suggested that this disk could be created when the SMBH disrupts a passing star8,11, implying that many QPEs should be preceded by observable tidal disruption events (TDEs). Two known QPE sources show long-term decays in quiescent luminosity consistent with TDEs4,12 and two observed TDEs have exhibited X-ray flares consistent with individual eruptions13,14. TDEs and QPEs also occur preferentially in similar galaxies15. However, no confirmed repeating QPEs have been associated with a spectroscopically confirmed TDE or an optical TDE observed at peak brightness. Here we report the detection of nine X-ray QPEs with a mean recurrence time of approximately 48 h from AT2019qiz, a nearby and extensively studied optically selected TDE16. We detect and model the X-ray, ultraviolet (UV) and optical emission from the accretion disk and show that an orbiting body colliding with this disk provides a plausible explanation for the QPEs.The detection and modelling of nine X-ray quasi-periodic eruptions from a nearby tidal disruption event shows that these eruptions arise in accretion disks around massive black holes, left behind by tidally disrupted stars, and that an orbiting body colliding with this disk is a plausible explanation for the X-ray variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide and tin oxide (ZnO/SnO2) nanocomposites were synthesized using a simple chemical co-precipitation method. The XRD results confirmed that tin oxide with rutile structure and zinc oxide hexagonal phase are formed separately. Further morphological studies revealed that sheet like ZnO formed during chemical reaction while spherical SnO₂ nanoparticles were embedded within the ZnO matrix. The presence of elements confirmed in the EDAX analysis and ensured their uniform distribution through elemental mapping. The FTIR spectra showed the characteristics absorption peaks at 437 and 602 cm−1 validates the presence of Zn–O and Sn–O–Sn respectively. The optical properties of ZnO/SnO2 nanocomposites were studied using UV–Visible. The dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) fabricated from different composition of ZnO/SnO2. The highest photo conversion efficiency of 5.7% with short circuit current density (Jsc) of 11.2 mA/cm2 and an open circuit voltage of 0.7 V for optimized composition. Interestingly, the presence of SnO2 within ZnO/SnO2 nanocomposites made a significant reduction in charge transfer resistance at photoanode and electrolyte interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electronic industry is compelled to improve its environmental performance by making use of agriculture wastes and cleaner manufacturing process. This paper provides the use of silica rich rice husk ash (RHA) as reinforcement for the epoxy (EP)-glass fiber (GF) composites for the development of radar/microwave absorbing material (RAM). The EP/GF/RHA hybrid laminates with RHA content of 0, 5, 10 and 15 wt.% were fabricated by hand layup technique. Scanning electron microscope was used to see the dispersion of RHA particles in the hybrids. Addition of RHA improved the storage modulus (E′) remarkably both in the glassy as well as rubbery regimes. The hybrid containing 5 wt.% RHA showed stiffness higher by 21.5% than the EP/GF matrix without RHA. Amongst hybrids, 5 wt.% RHA containing hybrid exhibited good microwave absorption properties with maximum reflection loss (RLmax) of—8.12 dB at 11.29 GHz frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heatwaves (HWs) pose a severe threat to human and ecological systems. Here we assess the projected changes in heatwaves over Latin America using bias corrected high-resolution regional climate simulations under two Representative Concentration Pathway scenarios (RCPs). Heatwaves are projected to be more frequent, long-lasting, and intense in the mid-century under both RCP2.6 and RCP8.5 scenarios, with severe increases under the RCP8.5 scenario. Even under the low emissions scenario of RCP2.6, the frequency of heatwaves doubles over most of the region. A three- to tenfold rise in population exposure to heatwave days is projected over Central and South America, with climate change playing a dominant role in driving these changes. Results show that following the low emission pathway would reduce 57% and 50% of heatwave exposure for Central and South American regions respectively, highlighting the need to control anthropogenic emissions and implement sustainable practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preconception and prenatal genetic counseling is a well-established means of risk assessment in many parts of the world, and in recent years, an emerging concept in India. Likelihood of an offspring having autosomal recessive disorder increases based on the degree of consanguinity. Hence, genetic testing of the couple for the identification of carrier status for disease-causing variants is crucial. The purpose of this study is to understand the frequency of genetic abnormalities in consanguineous marriages by using a comprehensive genetic testing algorithm where in karyotyping, FISH, exome sequencing and microarray are used sequentially to determine the genetic etiology based on the clinical presentation and to evaluate the need and benefits of preconceptional and prenatal genetic counseling. This retrospective study includes 66 couples having consanguinity referred for genetic counseling and testing. Of the 66 couples, 58 underwent comprehensive genetic testing which included Karyotyping, Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization (FISH), Microarray and Exome sequencing based on their clinical presentation. The analyses revealed a genetic abnormality in approximately 31% and chromosomal polymorphic variations & variants of uncertain significance in 17% of the couples. Counseling in these couples helped in identifying the carrier status and enabled them to take an informed decision in subsequent pregnancies. These findings reiterate the acute need for preconception and prenatal genetic counseling services in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using data from the 2D IMAGE network and magnetic stations located in Russia, Pc5 geomagnetic pulsations with a frequency of ~2.8 mHz, which occurred in the afternoon sector against the background of the magnetic storm of August 27, 2014, preceded by a 5-day period with low magnetic activity, are studied in detail. In two time intervals, at the beginning of the storm and during the period of maximum magnetic activity, instantaneous 2D distributions of Pc5 magnetic field amplitudes on Earth's surface are plotted. It has been found that the ionospheric sources of Pc5 (vortex Hall currents) have an elliptical shape with a larger axis in the south–north direction. At the beginning of the magnetic storm, a single burst of Pc5 pulsations was detected, the center of the source of which was located at the geomagnetic latitude ~67.5° (L ~ 6.8 RE) and moved westward with a velocity of ~0.7 km/s. The estimated size of this ionospheric source is ~150 km in the west–east direction and ~330 km in the south–north direction. During the maximum of the magnetic storm, Pc5 pulsations are produced by two ionospheric sources following each other. These ionospheric sources have a more elongated elliptical shape with axes of ~250 km in the west–east direction and ~670 km in the south–north direction. The centers of these sources were shifted by 4° to a more southern geomagnetic latitude ~63.5° (L ~ 5 RE) and moved westward with a velocity of ~1.7 km/s. Estimates of the size of the two-time magnetic field tube in which the resonance MHD waves have been generated and its velocity in the equatorial plane of the magnetosphere are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The features of the infrared (IR) spectra of various isotopic forms of water (–OH, –OD, H2O, HDO, and D2O) included in the crystal structure of the main rock-forming minerals of lunar basalts—olivines (forsterite)—have been studied. The results of numerical modeling (CUSTEP/Biovia Materials Studio) and experimental studies using the FT-801 IR Fourier spectrometer with a plug-in using the method of disturbed internal reflection (Simex, Novosibirsk) are presented. Numerical calculations have shown that forsterite can contain hydroxyl groups –OH(D) in its crystal lattice under certain conditions. The possibility of retaining various isotopic forms of molecular water on the surface of forsterite has been experimentally verified and the corresponding IR spectra of the mineral with a water film have been obtained. The IR spectra of forsterite containing isotopologues of water obtained theoretically and experimentally are compared with the observations of the Chandrayaan-1 and SOFIA artificial lunar satellites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study diatoms from some Neogene stratotype sections of Southern Primorye—the Sineutesovskaya and Novokachalinskaya formations and the Shufansky Horizon, light and scanning electron microscopy were used. The data allowed corrections to the existing Zonal Diatom Scale of the Neogene of Primorye. Studies have shown the absence of some zone index species in the deposits: Alveolophora bifaria, A. jouseana, and A. areolata. As a result, the subdivisions of the scale were renamed: Alveolophora hachiyaensis–Aulacoseira elliptica Zone, Alveolophora khankaica Zone, Alveolophora khursevichiae Zone. The position of the Shufansky horizon zones has changed: the Aulacoseira praeislandica Zone now corresponds to the Early Pliocene, and the Alveolophora tscheremissinovae Zone—to the Late Pliocene. According to the International Stratigraphic Chart of the Cenozoic, the age of the upper boundary of the Alveolophora tscheremissinovae Zone is 2.58 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper reports the study of surface roughness based opto-mechanical properties of Chlorobutyl (CIIR)/Natural Rubber (NR) 70/30 polymers filled with different contents of hybrid (CB/CN) using indigenously designed THz spectrophotometer between 1 and 2.0 THz range. The carbon black (CB) and Carbon nano powders were mixed between 20 and 2.0–7.5 Phr range in the chlorobutyl and natural rubber matrix for improvising their surface quality and mechanical strength. The physical and structural changes were ascertained in terms of transmission, refractive indices and absorption coefficients. The percentage of filler also influences the morphology and surface roughness quality of the rubber due to intercalation and measured in terms of surface roughness factor 'g' optical impedance 'z' and reflection coefficients between 0.1 and 2.0 THz range. The obtained values of optical impedance lie between 220.2 and 235.6 Ω range and were correlated with the mechanical strength of the rubber samples. It provides a new modality to understand the effect of fillers on the strength of rubber samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining water concentrations in the polar regions of the Moon is one of the priority tasks of a number of space missions and, in particular, the Luna-27 mission. The complex of scientific equipment of the Luna-27 spacecraft includes time-of-flight laser ionization mass spectrometer LASMA-LR, the main task of which is to analyze the elemental composition of the regolith at the landing site. The design and configuration of the flight instrument is adapted for the analysis of regolith and was not originally intended for the study of volatile compounds. However, due to the importance of determining the water content in regolith, we reviewed some approaches to analyzing samples during lunar missions and assessed the applicability of LASMA-LR and the laser ionization mass spectrometry method in general for identifying water in regolith. It has been established that using this instrument it is possible to detect water in regolith, including determining its state (chemically bound and unbound water). Moreover, the conditions for sampling the regolith and delivering it to the soil receiving device of the instrument are critically important for the analysis, since under the conditions of the lunar surface, sublimation of ice is possible before the samples are analyzed. This technique has advantages over some other methods of analyzing water and/or ice used in space experiments, and can be used in the study of a number of planets and bodies of the Solar System. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the prevalence of hypomineralized second primary molar (HSPM) and its association with socioeconomic characteristics and dental caries in a Brazilian population of preschoolers. Material and methods: 603 preschoolers, enrolled in public preschools in Itajaí (state of Santa Catarina, Brazil), took part in the study. To assess the participants' socio-economic characteristics, an original questionnaire was formulated and sent to the children's parents. The clinical evaluation was carried out by a calibrated examiner using the deft/DMFT index for dental caries and Ghanim et al. (Ghanim et al., Eur Arch Paediatr Dent, 2015) criteria for HSPM. The data were analyzed through Poisson regression, using STATA statistical software, and the association analyses were presented by prevalence ratios (PR). Results: The prevalence of at least one HSPM-affected second molar was 24.5%. The prevalence of HSPM was associated to the city's geographical regions of the Educational hubs (p < 0.001). A significant association was found between dental caries and HSPM (p = 0.003; PR: 1.31; 95% CI 1.09–1.56). Children with HSPM were 31% more likely to experience dental caries than children without HSPM. Geographical regions of educational hubs were also significantly associated with HSPM (p < 0.001). None of the socioeconomic characteristics was associated with HSPM (p > 0.05). Conclusion: HSPM is a common developmental defect of enamel in children in our study. The HSPM distribution was associated with the city's geographic regions. Children with HSPM are more likely to experience dental caries. Socioeconomic characteristics were not associated with HSPM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers different methods of divertor plasma diagnostics planned for using in the T‑15MD tokamak. Technical problems arising during operation of optical systems in the divertor zone are discussed, including degradation of in-vessel optical elements. The main attention is paid to the conceptual design of the "Passive Spectroscopy in Divertor" diagnostic system. The optical system, including in-vessel mirrors, and methods for protecting its components from the negative effects of plasma are described in detail. Using synthetic diagnostics and numerical simulation methods, the possibility of solving the problem of tomographic reconstruction of the two-dimensional profile of plasma radiation in the T-15MD divertor is demonstrated. Based on the results presented, it was concluded that passive spectroscopy can be used for obtaining data on plasma parameters in the divertor with good spatial resolution, which will make it possible to study the physics of processes and monitor the operation of the T-15MD divertor, including the operation in detachment regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photocatalytic activity of 2D/2D/0D heterostructures based on few-layer black phosphorus (FLBP) g-C3N4/FLBP/Co2P in the reaction of photocatalytic hydrogen formation from an aqueous solution of triethanolamine under under visible light irradiation (400 nm) was studied for the first time. An original method for the preparation of the g‑C3N4/FLBP/Co2P composite photocatalyst is proposed, which consists of the solvothermal synthesis of cobalt phosphide Co2P nanoparticles, their immobilization on the surface of FLBP, and subsequent mixing of the FLBP/Co2P heterostructure with g‑C3N4. The synthesized photocatalysts were characterized by physicochemical analytical methods (X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy). The hydrogen evolution rate in the presence of the g‑C3N4/FLBP/Co2P heterostructure was 0.09 mmol h–1, which is 25 times higher than the same characteristic for the unmodified g‑C3N4 sample. The obtained numerical values of the photocatalytic activity are at the level of the literature values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The kinetic modeling of high-temperature reforming of oxygen-free mixtures of methane with H2, H2O, CO, and CO2 additives into synthesis gas with strong dilution with argon under conditions of variable temperature and the formation of microheterogeneous soot particles was carried out. Such mixtures are typical for biomass gasification products, in which H2O, CO, and CO2 additives act as oxidizing agents. A direct comparison of kinetic calculations with the results of published experiments in a flow reactor at temperatures of 1100–1800 K, atmospheric pressure, and a reaction time of 0.68 s was carried out. The yields of soot were calculated for all test mixtures and conditions. A comparison of the results of kinetic calculations and experiments made it possible to evaluate the effect of soot formation on the reforming of methane with the additions of H2, H2O, CO, and CO2. The work analyzes two ways for carbon atoms to leave a reacting gas-phase system. The first way is the heterogeneous deposition of acetylene molecules from the gas phase onto the surface of the reactor with the subsequent formation of solid carbon, and the second way is the formation of microheterogeneous soot particles from nuclei in the gas phase. The paper compares the results of experiments in reflected shock waves and our kinetic calculations of the absolute concentration of CO for the process of methane oxidation in oxygen-free mixtures of methane and CO2. Mixtures with various CH4/CO2 ratios, 90/10, 75/25, and 50/50, were studied at temperatures above 2200 K and atmospheric pressure. It has been shown that the agreement between the calculated and measured CO concentrations improved with increasing temperature and CO2 fraction in the mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel polymeric composite was created using polyethylene polymers as the primary component, supplemented with varying weight proportions of micro-sized basalt rock powder. Basalt was incorporated into the base material at concentrations ranging from 20 to 40% by weight. The homogenous distributions of the basalt powder within the epoxy layers were affirmed using the scanning electron microscope (SEM) as well as the FTIR spectra for the fabricated composites were analyzed. The gamma-ray shielding properties for the fabricated composites were examined using the narrow beam transmission method on NaI (Tl) detector. The linear attenuation coefficient measurement shows an enhancement in the linear attenuation coefficient from 0.134 to 0.156 cm−1 by raising the basalt powder ratio from 0 to 40 wt%. These results were associated with an enhancement in the radiation shielding properties of the fabricated composites from 12.6 to 14.2% and the lead equivalent thickness reduced from 9.3to 8 cm by raising the basalt powder concentration from 0 to 40 wt%, respectively. Based on the findings, incorporating micro-sized basalt powder into the epoxy resin improves the gamma-ray shielding capabilities of the produced composites in comparison to various polymers documented in prior studies, especially E-B40. In terms of radiation protection, it can be inferred that E-B40 shows promising potential as a shielding material for gamma rays with low energy, offering increased protection with reduced thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of antibiotic resistance in microorganisms, including mycobacteria, poses a serious problem in modern medicine, reducing treatment effectiveness. In the modern world, there is considerable discussion about the influence of minimal selective concentrations of antibiotics (MSC), which are significantly lower than classical minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC), on the emergence of antibacterial resistance. It is assumed that such microconcentrations may act as an additional mechanism for selecting drug-resistant strains, which is particularly relevant owing to the accumulation of antibiotic concentrations in the environment as a result of human activity. In the context of mycobacteria, understanding the processes of induction of resistance to antibiotics at the MSC level is especially important for the development of effective treatment strategies and control of the spread of drug resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate the induction of the natural drug resistance system in mycobacteria under the influence of concentrations significantly lower than standard MIC and not affecting cell growth. The resistance of Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2 155 to one of the main antibiotics used in medical practice, bedaquiline, was analyzed during induction by tetracycline, ofloxacin, and kanamycin. It was established that one of the mechanisms influencing the change in sensitivity of the M. smegmatis mc2 155 strain during induction by microconcentrations of tetracycline is the antibiotic efflux system—MmpS5-Mmpl5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic fuel combustion products are one of the main sources of air pollution. When burning fossil fuels, pollutants harmful to human health, such as nitrogen and sulfur oxides, fly ash with particles of unburned fuel, carbon oxides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and metal oxides, are released into the atmosphere. The largest emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere are accompanied by the combustion of solid fuels. In 2014, significant changes took place in the environmental legislation of the Russian Federation [1], which oblige energy enterprises to comply not only with sanitary and hygienic standards but also with technical and technological standards. To maintain technological indicators for specific NOx emissions on boiler equipment at the regulatory level, it will be necessary to fully apply primary methods for suppressing the formation of nitrogen oxides, use low-toxic burners and fuel combustion schemes, and, in some cases, expensive gas purification from NOx will be required. Based on statistical data, the BKZ-420-140 (E-420-140) boiler was selected as a prototype for research. When BKZ-420-140 boilers in the factory version operate using vortex burners when burning brown coal, the concentration of nitrogen oxides in the flue gases is more than 800 mg/m3, which significantly exceeds current standards. In order to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides while ensuring high operating efficiency of boiler equipment, a solid-fuel combustion scheme using direct-flow burners and nozzles has been proposed for this boiler. It is shown that it will be possible to increase the economic and environmental efficiency of BKZ-420-140 boilers' operation by implementing the developed solid-fuel combustion scheme using direct-flow burners and nozzles on them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article develops a method for determining the geomagnetic cutoff rigidity based on tracing of charged particles in Earth's magnetic field using the particle-in-cell method implemented in the Buneman–Boris scheme. In order to test the method, the geomagnetic cutoff rigidity in the field of an ideal dipole and in the field given by the IGRF model are calculated. In the first case, the obtained data are compared with analytical values. The calculation accuracy in this case is 3 MV. In the second case, the penumbra pattern is reproduced in different geographical locations, for different periods, and the stability of the method to small perturbations of the initial parameters is investigated. As the main results, the article constructs and analyzes geomagnetic cutoff rigidity maps at low-orbit satellite altitudes for different directions in space as well as their variations from 1900 to 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of four major process variables viz. laser power, scanning speed, hatch distance and powder bed thickness on the densification behavior of Inconel 718 (IN718), with a view to obtain defect free builds during laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) process. In order to determine the causes of defect generation, samples with different process variables were printed and examined microstructurally. Samples printed as per Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array have exhibited different types of microscopic defects such as porosity, lack of fusion (LOF) and cracks. Based on detailed study, the optimized process parameters for obtaining defect free IN718 builds were found to be with a laser power of 320 W at a scanning speed of 850 mm/s and a hatch distance of 0.11 mm. LOF and un-melted tracks have formed at low volume energy density (VED) while porosity was found at high VED values. Cracks are most evident in XZ plane, and the formation of such cracks is high at high laser power and scanning speed. Although VED represents the energy input to the process, it should no longer be considered a process parameter, as multiple combinations of input process variables with different performance characteristics can result in the same value. This aspect has been demonstrated in this paper with experimental data. A Modified Taguchi's approach has been followed in this study to develop empirical relationships to the performance characteristics (density), in terms of process variables and demonstrated their validity through comparison of test data. The method suggests few tests as per the orthogonal array and provides complete information for all combinations of levels and process variables. This method also provides the estimated range of output responses so that the scatter in the repeated tests can be assessed prior to the tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transglutaminases are enzymes that carry out post-translational modifications of proteins and participate in the regulation of their activities. Here, we show for the first time that the transglutaminase genes in the basal metazoan, the sea sponge Halisarca dujardinii, are organized in a cluster, similarly to mammalian transglutaminases. The regulatory regions of six transglutaminase genes and their differential expression in the course of the life cycle of H. dujardinii suggest independent regulation of these genes. The decrease in transglutaminase activities by cystamine facilitates restoration of the multicellular structures of this sponge after its mechanical dissociation. For the first time we observed that this decrease in transglutaminase activities was accompanied by generation of the reactive oxygen species in the cells of a basal metazoan. The study of transglutaminases in the basal metazoans and other sea-dwelling organisms might provide better understanding of the evolution and specific functions of these enzymes in higher animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the basis of the research conducted, it is proposed to use the waste of the enrichment of ferruginous quartzites from KMA as the main raw material for the production of fire-polished glass-crystalline cladding material (glass silica). The regularities of the formation of the phase composition of glass silica with the formation of crystalline phases such as hematite and hypersthene are established. On the basis of the experimental studies using X-ray diffraction analysis, differential thermal analysis, and IR spectroscopy, a mechanism for the formation of the phase composition of glass silica is proposed. The advantages of the developed technology in comparison with those of the analogs are shown. It is found that, after plasma chemical modification, performance indicators of the front surface of glass silica, such as water resistance, acid resistance, alkali resistance, and hardness, increase significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract—An original technique for modifying graphene oxide with iodine has been developed. It is shown that, when graphene oxide is treated with iodine, oxygen-containing groups are removed from the surface of graphene planes, which improves the electrically conductive properties of the material. The change in the structure and electrical conductivity of the modified graphene oxide, depending on the concentration of iodine, has been studied. According to Raman spectroscopy data, it can be seen that the composition of the modified materials includes molecular complexes of iodine and . Changes in the structure of the crystal lattice of iodine-modified graphene oxide films were studied using X-ray diffraction analysis. According to IR spectroscopy, the effect of iodination on the change in the qualitative composition of functional groups in the material was analyzed. The specific electrical conductivity of graphene oxide as a result of modification increases from 9.6 × 10–10 S/cm for the original material to 3.3 × 10–7 S/cm for the material treated with an isopropanol solution containing 1 wt % I2 relative to dry graphene oxide. The additionally modified films were heat treated at 80°C for 2 h. The resulting changes in the structure of the material are analyzed and an increase in electrical conductivity by one or two orders of magnitude is shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using powder metallurgy methods by sintering in vacuum at temperatures from 1300 to 1500°C, materials with porosity from 67.5 to 82.5% are obtained from mixtures of titanium carbide powders and ammonium bicarbonate as a pore-forming agent. Using X-ray phase analysis, it is established that the crystal lattice parameter of the resulting porous materials decreases with increasing sintering temperature. This indicates a decrease in the content of bound carbon C/Ti in titanium carbide. As a result of a comparative study of the strength characteristics of materials synthesized from nano- and submicron titanium carbide powders obtained from bending tests, it is found that they have similar values. Ultimate bending strength is in the range from 2.6 to 18.1 MPa. As the porosity of the material increases, the tensile strength decreases. The destruction is fragile. In the fracture of materials obtained from titanium carbide nanopowder, destruction is observed both along the body and along the grain boundaries regardless of the sintering temperature. In materials obtained by sintering submicron titanium carbide powder at 1500°C, destruction occurs predominantly along the body of the grains. It is revealed that, under the same sintering conditions, the density of porous material obtained from titanium carbide nanopowder is higher than that of the material obtained from submicron powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using non-renewable resources in energy storage has spurred the development of supercapacitors, widely applied in electric vehicles and portable electronic devices for their swift charge–discharge cycles and high-power density. Depending on their materials and energy-storage methods, supercapacitors are classified as either electrochemical double-layer capacitors or pseudocapacitors. This study synthesizes a bis(dimethyl pyridine oxalic acid)oxalate (BDPO) and evaluates its electrochemical properties through impedance analysis. The results reveal promising performance, with specific capacitance values peaking at 330.52 g/F. Scan rate optimization at 0.05 V/s proves crucial for the supercapacitor system's highest efficient charge storage capacity. Additionally, structural confirmational analysis is done by optimized geometry, NMR analysis, and vibrational analysis also interactions are confirmed through ELF, LOL, AIM, and NBO analysis. Following an NBO assessment, crucial donor–acceptor interactions were examined. Notably, with stabilization energies of 33.36, 22.59, 10.24, 3.24, 1.73, 1.18, and 1.09 kcal/mol are caused by hyperconjugative contacts in lone pair LP (O35) → σ*(N14—H15), LP (O41) → σ*(N29—H42), LP (O40) → σ*(O33—H34), LP (O43) → σ*(C1—H2), LP (O48) → σ*(C8—H9), LP (O36) → σ*(C25—H28), LP (O43) → σ*(C16—H17) significantly influenced various topological analyses, including AIM, ELF, LOL, RDG, and IGM, producing favorable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key attributes of an ensemble prediction system (EPS) is the spread among the members. It plays a crucial role in conveying the uncertainty associated with the forecasted parameters. It is a quantitative measure of forecast uncertainty, provides a range of possible outcomes, and helps in the assessment of risk and decision making. Additionally, the spread can also serve as a diagnostic tool for assessing the reliability and variability among the ensemble members. If the spread is consistently narrow, it may indicate that the ensemble members are not diverse enough and the uncertainties may not be adequately captured resulting in sub-optimal decision making. In this study, the rainfall forecasts from two EPSs over India have been assessed during four monsoon seasons (2019–2022) with an aim to boost the ensemble spread by constructing a ‘Grand Ensemble’. The two high-resolution operational global EPSs of Ministry of Earth Science (MoES) in India are (i) National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) EPS (NEPS) which has a 12 km grid, and 23 members and (ii) Global Ensemble Forecast System (GEFS) with a 12 km grid and 21 members. Both EPSs have been used for operational medium range forecasts out to Day-10 since 2018. The MoES Grand Ensemble (MGE) constructed by combining the two EPSs (NEPS & GEFS), features a higher spread and an improved Spread Vs Bias relationship compared to the constituent models. Further, the results indicate lowest CRPS in the MGE compared to the constituent EPSs, over the Indian land region. The improved performance of MGE is also demonstrated for moderate and heavy rainfall events using Brier Skill Score (BSS), Reliability Diagram and ROC curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 all over the world has given an option to employees to work from home. As a result, the number of computer users has increased drastically. According to international market tracker Data Corporation, in 2020, the sales of computer devices exceeded 302 million. The survey conducted on computer users indicates that there was increase in neck pain and back pain. The increase in musculoskeletal disorder is mainly due to bad ergonomic design of computer workstation. The present work is focused on design of computer user chair based on Indian anthropometric standard data. Three different kinds of chair have been modeled in CATIA V5. The bio-mechanical analysis and rapid upper limb assessment analysis were carried out. The structural analyses of chairs have been carried out in ANSYS. The results showed that the chairs were structurally strong for static condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co2+ doped strontium zinc phosphate (SZP) nanophosphor is prepared by solution combustion method. The synthesized nanophosphor is studied by structural and spectral characterizations XRD, SEM with EDS, FT-IR, Optical absorption, EPR and Photoluminescence. X-ray diffraction pattern confirmed a monoclinic crystal phase with a crystallite size of 57 nm with the help of Debye Scherrer's formula. Morphological investigations indicate nanoflakes structure with average particle size determined in the nano range. EDS spectrum showed the existence of Strontium (Sr), Zinc (Zn), Phosphorus (P), Oxygen (O) and Cobalt (Co) in the synthesized sample. FTIR spectrum exhibited different vibrational bands corresponding to PO43−, P-O-P and other modes. Crystal field and inter-electron repulsion parameters are evaluated as Dq = 980, B = 920 and C = 3900 cm−1. Comparing optical and EPR spectra confirms the inclusion of Co2+ ions in octahedral site geometry and covalent nature coupling with its host lattice. The evaluated photometric parameters such as CIE coordinates and Colour Correlated Temperature (CCT) values indicate that prepared Co2+ doped SZP nanophosphor is potentially good for white light emitting diodes and solid state lightening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the entire period of studies in the water bodies in the Ural River basin, comprehensive hydrobiological studies have not been carried out in many areas both on the main watercourses of the Ural and Sakmara rivers and on a large number of tributaries of different levels. The results of such studies carried out by the Water Problems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, during expeditions in the summer and autumn 2022 are discussed. A large body of data on phytoplankton, zooplankton, zoobenthos, and juvenile fish was collected and processed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main principles of optimal flow regulation in small rivers by reservoirs are presented. New methodological approaches are considered, taking into account the need of differential analysis of the physiographic conditions of the areas where the basins of the examined rivers are located. This is of particular importance in the case of formation of regional response to global climate warming with a combination of unfavorable economic and environmental conditions. The methodological basis of the study includes the geosystem approach and a basin principle, which allow comprehensive incorporation of the effect of the totality of natural and anthropogenic factors on the formation of variations of quantitative and qualitative characteristics of water in watercourse and the ecological conditions in them. The methods of studies include the physiographic zoning of the Ural River basin within the boundaries of the Russian Federation, statistical and graphical analysis of materials of long-term hydrometeorological observations, cartography, etc. The results of the study include methodological provision and substantiation of methodological principles for optimal flow regulation of small rivers in the Ural River basin by reservoirs within the boundaries of the Russian Federation, taking into account environmental and economic criteria. They form a part of a vast list of proposals aimed at hydrological-environmental rehabilitation of small rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-state reaction synthesis produced VO2+ -doped Li2Ba3(P2O7)2 pyrophosphate nanopowder at ambient temperature. The produced sample was characterized by powder x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and photoluminescence (PL) techniques. Powder XRD confirmed the preservation of an orthorhombic crystal structure of the sample with an average crystallite size of 34.2 nm. In addition, lattice cell parameters and internal lattice strain were evaluated. SEM and HR-TEM images revealed that a tiny agglomeration of stone-like particles appeared in the sample and also evaluated particle size distributions. FT-IR and Raman spectra exhibited characteristic vibrational modes of phosphate (PO43−) ions along with other bands. Optical absorption spectrum of the VO2+ -doped sample exhibited three characteristic peaks at 831, 635, and 416 nm. Furthermore, crystal and tetragonal field parameters were determined as Dq = 1574, Ds = − 2903, and Dt = 664 cm−1. From the EPR spectrum, calculated spin Hamiltonian parameters were g ‖ = 1.954, g ⊥ = 1.977, A ‖ = 284 × 10−4 cm−1 and A ⊥ = 53 × 10−4 cm−1. Optical and EPR spectra revealed that VO2+ ions have tetragonal distortion octahedral site symmetry and have a moderate covalent nature with ligands. Using the PL spectrum, the CIE chromaticity coordinates were determined to be in the yellowish-green region appropriate for LEDs and lighting systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the thermoluminescence (TL) emission spectra of various doped CaF2 materials after exposure to ionizing radiation. The understanding of the TL spectra of these single-doped materials, systematically produced under the same sintering conditions, contributes to the interpretation of complex TL spectra observed in naturally occurring fluorite crystals. The production of Ce3+, Tm3+, Tb3+, Dy3+, Er3+, Pr3+, Nd3+, and Yb3+ doped calcium fluoride was carried out using the combustion synthesis method. The emission spectrum lines could be ascribed to the RE transitions that occur when a trapped hole center recombines with a RE2+. Emissions range from the ultra-violet to the near-infrared. This study aids in tailoring new materials for specific applications and the matching of emitted light to specific filters and instrumentation used for detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strain Achromobacter insolitus LCu2 isolated from the roots of alfalfa (Medicagosativa L.) utilized cinnamic acid and its methoxy derivatives (vanillic and ferulic acids) as the sole carbon source. Weak growth was observed with m-coumaric acid, but not on o- or p-coumaric acids. Growth on the cinnamic acid was slow and diauxic. The substrate decreased in the cultivation medium by 53%; the degradation efficiency during 14 days was 30 μg/mg wet weight. Despite the bactericidal effect of cinnamic acid, the culture A. insolitus LCu2 remained viable for a long time. Genomic analysis revealed two gene clusters (hca and mhp) responsible for the dihydroxylation of the phenyl ring (hcaA1A2CDB) and its subsequent cleavage to central metabolic products (mhpACDE), as well as a transcriptional regulator (hcaR) and a putative transporter (hcaT). A putative biochemical pathway for cinnamic acid degradation by the strain A. insolitus LCu2 was predicted using genomic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The delivery of herbal medications is currently a growing area in pharmacy. One of the areas of interest for the scientists conducting pharmaceutical research is the use of floating drug delivery system (FDDS) for herbal medicine. In this study, we developed an oral herbal gastro-retentive in-situ gel using extracts from Azadirachta indica and Piper longum Linn, employing the quality by design (QbD) approach. Methods: For the formulation and optimization of an oral herbal in-situ gel, a central composite design (CCD) was used. This design is based on 2-level factorial designs that have been supplemented with center and axial points to match quadratic models. The amounts of two independent variables, gellan gum (X1) and calcium carbonate (X2), were altered at five distinct levels. For the current investigation, the response variables viscosity (Y1), floating lag time (Y2), and gelling time (Y3) were used. According to DoE software, a total of 13 formulations were prepared by changing the gellan gum and calcium carbonate concentrations. Results: The optimized formulation (OF2), which contains gellan gum 0.293% & calcium carbonate 0.706, satisfies the requirements of quality target product profile (QTPP) and critical quality attributes (CQA) for oral herbal in-situ gel with 75% and 73% drug content. OF2 had a 35.5 s gelling time, a 53 s floating lag time, and a viscosity of 53 cps. The formulated oral herbal in-situ gel exhibited stability for over 2 months under both freezing (-4 °C) and 40 °C with 60% relative humidity (RH) storage conditions. Conclusion: The developed formulation presents a promising and innovative approach to enhance the gastric retention of herbal extracts, ultimately amplifying their therapeutic efficacy. This paper establishes the foundation for future preclinical and clinical studies on an oral herbal in-situ gel containing long pepper and neem leaf extracts for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease (PUD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium alloy, Ti–6Al–2.2Mo–1.4Cr–0.4Fe–0.3Si (BT3-1), is a two phase α + β alloy developed for applications in rocket engines, gas turbine engines, and aircraft frames for service up to a temperature of 450 °C. The hot workability of this alloy has been studied through isothermal hot compression testing in the temperature and strain rate (ε ˙) range of 800 °C to 1000 °C and 10−3 to 10 s−1, respectively, in a thermomechanical simulator. Processing maps using dynamic material model has been generated and different regions of the map were correlated with microstructural observations. The flow stress data were fitted in Arrhenius strain-compensated model and constitutive equations were developed. Optical microstructures revealed elongated grains, kinking of α phase, flow localisation, and adiabatic shear bands at lower temperatures. Super-plasticity was found to be operative at low temperature of 850 °C and ε ˙ 10−3 s−1, whereas dynamic recrystallization (DRX) was dominating at high temperatures of 950 °C to 1000 °C and ε ˙ of 10−3 s−1. Finite element analysis showed the flow localization in the unstable regions of processing map. Enhanced hot workability was achieved above 950°C in the ε ˙ of 10−2−10−3 s−1 due to initiation of DRX in view of an increase in the β phase fraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ocular condition known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the retina and impairs vision in the elderly. For both controlling and detecting retinal illnesses like AMD, optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an important investigative tool. The accurate segmentation of retinal layers is critical, as accurately segmenting the layers helps ophthalmologists for early diagnosis of AMD. An accurate and effective detection technique is created using the proposed Water Cycle Corona Virus Optimization-based Deep Residual Network (WCCVO-based DRN) to address these problems and identify AMD at the early stages. In the first step, the active contour model is used to segment the layers, and features such as reflectivity, thickness, curvature, statistical features, and the devised Local Directional Gradient Pattern Histogram (LDGPH) are retrieved. The LDGPH is designed based on the concept of Local Directional pattern (LDP) and Local Gradient pattern (LGP). At last, for the AMD detection DRN classifier is used, which is trained by the devised WCCVO. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity metrics for the WCCVO-based DRN achieved satisfactory performance with values of 0.916, 0.923, and 0.919. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The penetration of distributed renewable energy sources degrades the protection of microgrids, which leads to incorrect data flow in the energy systems. It is critical to detect faults, types of defects and location of faults in order to improve the protection and security of microgrids. To cater this issue in hybrid renewable energy system, a novel fault detection scheme is adopted using artificial intelligence. The renewable energy based microgrid system is implemented in the IEEE 13 bus power network to obtain the normal and faulty voltage and current data.. The system is simulated using MatLab/Simulink platform. From the time series data, the features are decomposed using empirical wavelet transform (EWT). First, EWT evaluates the frequency components in the signal, then calculates the bounds and gets the basis of the oscillating components. The obtained samples are classified using a Hybrid Convolutional Recurrent Neural Network (HCRNN) and optimized by the Pelican Optimization Algorithm. The 11 types of faults are identified along with the location of fault in the system is obtained. The results are compared with the existing methods and found that the proposed method has improved the fault sample detection accuracy by 1.56%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple record-breaking rainfall events were observed along the Western Ghats (WG) during the recent monsoon seasons (2019–2021). Rainfall amounts of up to > 200 mm/day (Extreme rainfall, ER) were recorded especially over the Mumbai region (19.07 N, 72.8 E) causing flooding, landslides, damage to infrastructure and loss of life. Thus, to enhance the resilience of this region by providing early warning for flooding, the National Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting Unified model's regional forecasting system (NCUM-reg) provides rainfall forecasts up to 3 days (72-h), which are utilized in the integrated flood warning system hydrological model. This study focuses on evaluating the performance of NCUM-reg forecasts during ER events. For this purpose, we have systematically performed verification of regional model operational forecasts using the suite of observations (rain gauge, satellite) and newly generated NCMRWF's regional reanalysis, Indian Monsoon Data Assimilation and Analysis (IMDAA). Key findings indicate that NCUM-reg model with explicit convection is performing well in representing the synoptic and dynamic features of the ER events similar to those observed. Quantitative assessment of the forecasts shows the strength of in-situ observations. In addition, the results summarize the importance of continuous and quality-controlled observations and stress the need for collective efforts of observations and new verification metrics (like process-oriented diagnostics) to enhance our understanding and as well as the model's ability in forecasting such events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elemental composition of the lunar surface provides insights into mechanisms of the formation and evolution of the Moon1,2. The chemical composition of lunar regolith have so far been precisely measured using the samples collected by the Apollo, Luna and Chang’e 5 missions, which are from equatorial to mid-latitude regions3,4; lunar meteorites, whose location of origin on the Moon is unknown5,6; and the in situ measurement from the Chang’e 3 and Chang’e 4 missions7–9, which are from the mid-latitude regions of the Moon. Here we report the first in situ measurements of the elemental abundances in the lunar southern high-latitude regions by the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) experiment10 aboard the Pragyan rover of India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission. The 23 measurements in the vicinity of the Chandrayaan-3 landing site show that the local lunar terrain in this region is fairly uniform and primarily composed of ferroan anorthosite (FAN), a product of the lunar magma ocean (LMO) crystallization. However, observation of relatively higher magnesium abundance with respect to calcium in APXS measurements suggests the mixing of further mafic material. The compositional uniformity over a few tens of metres around the Chandrayaan-3 landing site provides an excellent ground truth for remote-sensing observations.In situ measurements of the elemental abundances in the lunar southern high-latitude regions show that the local terrain is fairly uniform and mostly composed of ferroan anorthosite, a product of lunar magma ocean crystallization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collectively moving cellular systems often contain a proportion of dead cells or non-motile genotypes. When mixed, nematically aligning motile and non-motile agents are known to segregate spontaneously. However, the role that topological defects and active stresses play in shaping the distribution of the two phases remains unresolved. In this study, we investigate the behaviour of a two-dimensional binary mixture of active and passive nematic fluids to understand how topological defects are transported between the two phases and, ultimately, how this leads to the segregation of topological charges. When the activity of the motile phase is large, and the tension at the interface of motile and non-motile phases is weak, we find that the active phase tends to accumulate +1/2 defects and expel −1/2 defects so that the motile phase develops a net positive charge. Conversely, when the activity of the motile phase is comparatively small and interfacial tension is strong, the opposite occurs so that the active phase develops a net negative charge. We then use these simulations to develop a physical intuition of the underlying processes that drive the charge segregation. Lastly, we quantify the sensitivity of this process on the other model parameters, by exploring the effect that anchoring strength, orientational elasticity, friction, and volume fraction of the motile phase have on topological charge segregation. As +1/2 and −1/2 defects have very different effects on interface morphology and fluid transport, this study offers new insights into the spontaneous pattern formation that occurs when motile and non-motile cells interact. Collectively moving cellular systems often contain both motile and non-motile genotypes, and when mixed, these agents segregate spontaneously. The study reveals that the segregation of topological charges between these agents depends on activity and interfacial tension, with high activity and low tension favoring a positively charged motile phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]