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The South Kenya Rift is comprised of a series of N-S-oriented grabens with sediments that preserve an approximate one-million-year environmental history that reflects the interplay of climate, tectonism and volcanism. This study attempts to disentangle the relative roles of these major controls by comparing the geochemical records preserved in three sedimentary basins. The study focuses on the Koora Basin using bulk geochemical data in a 139-m-long core. This record is then compared with geochemical data and environmental histories from a 196-m-long core at Magadi and outcrops in the Olorgesailie Basin. Four climatic phases (1000–850; 850–470; 470–400; 400–0 ka) are recognised at Koora, which can also be distinguished in the Magadi and Olorgesailie Basins. However, inter-basin contrasts also suggest that additional, non-climatic factors influenced these geochemical histories, particularly during four intervals. These include 1) the Magadi Transition (MT; ∼770–700 ka), 2) the Magadi Tectonic Event (MTE; ∼540 ka), 3) the Koora Instability Period (KIP; ∼325–180 ka), and 4) the Trona Precipitation Period (TPP; ∼105–0 ka). Prior to the MT, Zr/TiO, La/Lu, Mo, As, V and Na/Ca in Magadi and Koora cores were similar but afterwards diverged. Major reductions in transition metals at Magadi during the MTE reflect tectonically-induced cross-rift drainage diversion. This contrasts with the Koora and Olorgesailie basins where these metals were constant from ∼1000 to 300 ka. The KIP represents a significant increase in volcanic inputs to the Koora Basin and increased geochemical variability. Bromine (Br), which reflects peralkaline volcanic activity and/or evaporative concentration, is elevated during the KIP at Koora but is below detection limits in the rest of the Koora core. Br in the Magadi core does not correlate with that in the Koora record, suggesting contrasting accumulation processes. The TPP represents a phase of trona precipitation at Magadi but not at Koora. This diffe

Mantle xenoliths from Santo Domingo, Ventura-Espíritu Santo and Durango volcanic fields (Mesa Central in Mexico) experienced low degrees of partial melting in the stability fields of garnet (⁓ 2%) and spinel peridotites (⁓ 2–4%), and interacted with hydrous alkaline melts possibly during the Basin and Range extensional tectonism since Late Oligocene. Enclosed and intergranular grains of monosulfide solid solution (mss) in Santo Domingo peridotites are residues after the extraction of 0.1–0.5 fractions of Ni-Cu-rich sulphide melt during mantle melting events. On the other hand, glo˜bular sulphides (pentlandite ± chalcopyrite) hosted in glass veinlets in the Ventura-Espíritu Santo and Durango peridotites crystallized from Ni-Cu-rich droplets of sulphide melt, immiscible in the Quaternary silicate magmas that brought the xenoliths to the surface. Rhenium-depletion model ages of these sulphide populations indicate that part of the subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) of the Oaxaquia terrane (beneath Santo Domingo and Ventura-Espíritu Santo) originated in the Archaean-Paleoproterozoic as the southernmost extension of the Laurentia craton, and was assembled with the Central terrane (beneath Durango) during the Grenville orogeny (⁓ 1.0 Ga). Early Palaeozoic (⁓ 500 Ma) model ages common to sulphides from the peridotite xenoliths of the three volcanic fields suggest that the Oaxaquia-Central composite block split away from North America during the Rodinia break-up and experienced the Pan-African-Brasiliano orogeny that led to Gondwana assembly. During the Cenozoic, the reactivation of translithospheric faults bounding this composite old SCLM provided preferential pathways for focusing the ascent of ore-productive magmas/fluids associated with the subduction-related metallogeny of the Pacific active margin of Mexico.

Germplasm is required to meet the needs of national and international forest restoration programs. Delimitation of germplasm movement zones is an effective tool to address problems of maladaptation of these materials but, in Mexico, the current delimitation of seed movement zones defines very heterogeneous areas while the availability of reliable information of the current distribution of species remains insufficient. This study expands and updates the information regarding the potential distribution of eight forest species: Brosimum alicastrum, Bursera simaruba, Cedrela odorata, Cordia alliodora, Cordia dodecandra, Ochroma pyramidale, Swietenia macrophylla, and Tabebuia rosea, and redefines the germplasm movement zones in seven states of southeastern Mexico, evaluating future changes in the climatic conditions for the time horizons of 2030 and 2060 by combining species distribution modeling techniques and delimitation of germplasm movement zones. Four of the eight predictive variables used in the model construction were determinant in the distribution of all eight species. The germplasm movement zones presented in the Mexican norms and those obtained in the present study differ. The zones of the existing standard are larger and each covers several of the climatic zones proposed in this study, producing seed movement in areas with greater climatic differences. The results suggest a tendency towards an increase in the Refheldt’s aridity index of 2.6 by the year 2060 and of 1.8 °C in the mean temperature of the coldest month, as well as a contraction in the potential distributions of seven of the eight species analyzed over the period 2021–2040.

The surfgrass Phyllospadix scouleri grows in highly productive meadows along the Pacific coast of North America. This region has experienced increasingly severe marine heatwaves (MHWs) in recent years. Our study evaluated the impact of consecutive MHWs, simulated in mesocosms, on essential ecophysiological features of P. scouleri. Overall, our findings show that the plants' overall physiological status has been progressively declining. Interestingly, the indicators of physiological stress in photosynthesis only showed up once the initial heat exposure stopped (i.e., during the recovery period). The warming caused increased oxidative damage and a decrease in nitrate uptake rates. However, the levels of non-structural carbohydrates and relative growth rates were not affected. Our findings emphasize the significance of incorporating recovery periods in this type of study as they expose delayed stress responses. Furthermore, experiencing consecutive intense MHWs can harm surfgrasses over time, compromising the health of their meadows and the services they offer to the ecosystem.

This study examined the interplay between bacterial and fungal communities in the human gut microbiota, impacting on nutritional status and body weight. Cohorts of 10 participants of healthy weight, 10 overweight, and 10 obese individuals, underwent comprehensive analysis, including dietary, anthropometric, and biochemical evaluations. Microbial composition was studied via gene sequencing of 16S and ITS rDNA regions, revealing bacterial (bacteriota) and fungal (mycobiota) profiles. Bacterial diversity exceeded fungal diversity. Statistically significant differences in bacterial communities were found within healthy-weight, overweight, and obese groups. The Bacillota/Bacteroidota ratio (previously known as the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio) correlated positively with body mass index. The predominant fungal phyla were Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, with the genera Nakaseomyces, Kazachstania, Kluyveromyces, and Hanseniaspora, inversely correlating with weight gain; while Saccharomyces, Debaryomyces, and Pichia correlated positively with body mass index. Overweight and obese individuals who harbored a higher abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila, demonstrated a favorable lipid and glucose profiles in contrast to those with lower abundance. The overweight group had elevated Candida, positively linked to simple carbohydrate consumption. The study underscores the role of microbial taxa in body mass index and metabolic health. An imbalanced gut bacteriota/mycobiota may contribute to obesity/metabolic disorders, highlighting the significance of investigating both communities.

Opuntia ficus-indica fruits have been widely used due to their nutritional composition and beneficial effects on health, particularly against chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and cancer, among others. In recent years, prickly pear peel and pulp extracts have been characterised, and a high number of bioactive compounds have been identified. This study aimed to analyse the triglyceride-lowering effect of prickly pear peel and pulp extracts obtained from fruits of three varieties (Pelota, Sanguinos, and Colorada) in 3T3-L1 maturing and mature adipocytes. At a concentration of 50 µg/mL, peel extracts from Colorada reduced triglyceride accumulation in pre-adipocytes and mature adipocytes. Additionally, at 25 µg/mL, Pelota peel extract decreased triglyceride content in mature adipocytes. Moreover, maturing pre-adipocytes treated with 50 and 25 µg/mL of Sanguinos pulp extract showed a reduction of triglyceride accumulation. In addition, the lipid-lowering effect of the main individual betalain and phenolic compounds standards were assayed. Piscidic acid and isorhamnetin glycoside (IG2), found in Colorada peel extract, were identified as the bioactive compounds that could contribute more notably to the triglyceride-lowering effect of the extract. Thus, the betalain and phenolic-rich extracts from Opuntia ficus indica fruits may serve as an effective tool in obesity management.

Avocado residues, such as seeds, peels, and leaves, are waste generated by the agri-food industry in large quantities since avocado is a fruit of high 4nutritional value consumed in much of the world. However, the increase in its waste is an environmental problem, so its use represents a viable alternative to this problem. It has been shown that these residues are a great source of bioactive compounds such as phenols, tannins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids, among others, whose application in areas such as health is of great importance since these compounds have characteristics due to their antioxidant nature that give them biological properties such as anticancer, antiviral, antimicrobial, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and others that have been studied to prevent or counteract diseases and that will be described in this chapter.

The aboveground contributions of mangroves to global carbon sequestration reinforce the need to estimate biomass in these systems. The objective was to determine the aboveground biomass storage and quantify the carbon and CO2e content in Rhizophora mangle, Avicennia germinans, and Laguncularia racemosa present in southeastern Mexico. Based on the Forest Protocol for Mexico Version 2.0 methodology, published by Climate Action Reserve, 130 circular plots were randomly selected and established in an area of 930 ha of mangrove vegetation, and the aboveground biomass and stored carbon were determined. The mangrove had a density of 3515 ± 428.5 individuals per hectare. The aboveground biomass of the three species was 120.5 Mg ha−1. The biomass of L. racemosa was 99.5 Mg ha−1, which represents 82.6% of the total biomass. The biomass of R. mangle was 20.33 Mg ha−1, and that of A. germinans was 0.32 Mg ha−1. The total carbon retained in the trees was 60.25 Mg C ha−1 and 221.1 Mg CO2e ha−1. Laguncularia racemosa generated the highest contributions of CO2e. The area of mangroves accumulated 112,065 Mg of aboveground biomass. The carbon contained in this biomass corresponds to 205,623 Mg CO2e. This mangrove contributes to mitigating the effects of climate change globally through the reduction in greenhouse gases.

The maize root system has been reshaped by indirect selection during global adaptation to new agricultural environments. In this study, we characterized the root systems of more than 9,000 global maize accessions and its wild relatives, defining the geographical signature and genomic basis of variation in seminal root number. We demonstrate that seminal root number has increased during maize domestication followed by a decrease in response to limited water availability in locally adapted varieties. By combining environmental and phenotypic association analyses with linkage mapping, we identified genes linking environmental variation and seminal root number. Functional characterization of the transcription factor ZmHb77 and in silico root modeling provides evidence that reshaping root system architecture by reducing the number of seminal roots and promoting lateral root density is beneficial for the resilience of maize seedlings to drought.

Kalanchoë gastonis-bonnieri Raym.-Hamet & Perrier is a plant used for medicinal purposes in the treatment of several ailments. The aim of this study was to analyze the chemical profile of extracts from K. gastonis-bonnieri embryogenic calli, generated from genetically transformed roots by Agrobacterium rhizogenes. Putative transformants were verified by PCR. Hydroalcoholic extracts were obtained and the chemical profile was analyzed by LC-ESI-MS/MS. Root formation was obtained from 80% of infected seedlings. Fifteen root lines were isolated, and two lines showed prominent longitudinal growth and profuse branching in the B5 semi-solid medium. In all lines, the formation of nodules and later embryogenic callus was observed. Putative transgenic root lines were cultivated in free-plant growth regulators B5 medium. In the two selected lines, the PCR amplification of rolA, rolB, rolC, rolD, and aux1 genes was detected. The extract of embryogenic calli showed 60 chemical compounds tentatively identified, such as ferulic acid, quinic acid, neobaisoflavone, and malic acid, among others, and the chemical profile was different in comparison to wild-type extracts. This is the first study reporting the analysis of the chemical profile of hairy root extracts derived from Kalanchoë gastonis-bonnieri. This work displays the great potential for obtaining chemical compounds of pharmacological importance from hairy roots and facilitates the identification of new useful drugs against human chronic-degenerative diseases.

Mangiferin is a natural plant polyphenol of C-glycosylxanthone structure that has a potential effect for the treatment on various diseases thanks to its numerous biological activities. For a long time, the pharmaceutical industry has been interested in biologically active natural molecules due to their unique properties, bioavailability, and above all, significantly lower side effects compared to synthetic drugs. Numerous scientific research studies have shown that mangiferin has antioxidant, anti-infective, anticancer, antidiabetic, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. However, mangiferin is not currently administered for clinical use because its oral bioavailability, as well as its absorption in the body, are considerably low in addition to considering all the ethical complications involved in carrying out such studies in humans. However, it is essential to note that the clinical trials carried out so far have encouraging results, which provides a good picture of the administration of mangiferin in humans. This chapter aims to explain the therapeutic potential of mangiferin, as well as its sources of production, possible mechanisms of action, biological effects, advances in its research in the medical field, as well as its toxicity.

We present results from a 3.25 kg−day target exposure of two silicon charge-coupled devices (CCDs), each with 24 megapixels and skipper readout, deployed in the DAMIC setup at SNOLAB. With a reduction in pixel readout noise of a factor of 10 relative to the previous detector, we investigate the excess population of low-energy events in the CCD bulk previously observed above expected backgrounds. We address the dominant systematic uncertainty of the previous analysis through a depth fiducialization designed to reject surface backgrounds on the CCDs. The measured bulk ionization spectrum confirms the presence of an excess population of low-energy events in the CCD target with characteristic rate of ∼7 events per kg-day and electron-equivalent energies of ∼80 eV, whose origin remains unknown.

We perform a Hamiltonian analysis of unimodular gravity in its first-order formulation, specifically a modification of the Holst action. In order to simplify the analysis, prior studies on this theory have introduced (for several reasons) additional elements, such as parametrization, complex fields, or considering the Barbero–Immirzi parameter as imaginary. We show that, by using a geometric implementation of the Dirac algorithm, a comprehensive analysis of the theory can be conducted without relying on these additional ingredients. The resulting theory reproduces the behavior of metric unimodular gravity.

[Context] The fragmentation of high-mass star-forming regions depends on a variety of physical parameters, including density, the magnetic field, and turbulent gas properties., [Aims] We evaluate the importance of the density and magnetic field structures in relation to the fragmentation properties during high-mass star formation., [Results] Based on the IRAM 30 m data, we infer density distributions n ∝ r−p of the regions with typical power-law slopes p around ~1.5. There is no obvious correlation between the power-law slopes of the density structures on larger clump scales (~1 pc) and the number of fragments on smaller core scales (<0.1 pc). Comparing the large-scale single-dish density profiles to those derived earlier from interferometric observations at smaller spatial scales, we find that the smaller-scale power-law slopes are steeper, typically around ~2.0. The flattening toward larger scales is consistent with the star-forming regions being embedded in larger cloud structures that do not decrease in density away from a particular core. The magnetic fields of several regions appear to be aligned with filamentary structures that lead toward the densest central cores. Furthermore, we find different polarization structures; some regions exhibit central polarization holes, whereas other regions show polarized emission also toward the central peak positions. Nevertheless, the polarized intensities are inversely related to the Stokes I intensities, following roughly a power-law slope of ∝ SI−0.62. We estimate magnetic field strengths between ~0.2 and ~4.5 mG, and we find no clear correlation between magnetic field strength and the fragmentation level of the regions. A comparison of the turbulent to magnetic energies shows that they are of roughly equal importance in this sample. The mass-to-flux ratios range between ~2 and ~7, consistent with collapsing star-forming regions., [Conclusions] Finding no clear correlations between the present-day large-scale density structure, the magnetic field strength, and the smaller-scale fragmentation properties of the regions, indicates that the fragmentation of high-mass star-forming regions may not be affected strongly by the initial density profiles and magnetic field properties. However, considering the limited evolutionary range and spatial scales of the presented CORE analysis, future research directions should include density structure analysis of younger regions that better resemble the initial conditions, as well as connecting the observed intermediate-scale magnetic field structure with the larger-scale magnetic fields of the parental molecular clouds.

We present the probabilistic stellar mass function (pSMF) of galaxies in the DESI Bright Galaxy Survey (BGS), observed during the One-percent Survey. The One-percent Survey was one of DESI's survey validation programs conducted from 2021 April to May, before the start of the main survey. It used the same target selection and similar observing strategy as the main survey and successfully observed the spectra and redshifts of 143,017 galaxies in the r < 19.5 magnitude-limited BGS Bright sample and 95,499 galaxies in the fainter surface-brightness- and color-selected BGS Faint sample over z < 0.6. We derive pSMFs from posteriors of stellar mass, M*, inferred from DESI photometry and spectroscopy using the Hahn et al. PRObabilistic Value-Added BGS (PROVABGS) Bayesian spectral energy distribution modeling framework. We use a hierarchical population inference framework that statistically and rigorously propagates the M* uncertainties. Furthermore, we include correction weights that account for the selection effects and incompleteness of the BGS observations. We present the redshift evolution of the pSMF in BGS, as well as the pSMFs of star-forming and quiescent galaxies classified using average specific star formation rates from PROVABGS. Overall, the pSMFs show good agreement with previous stellar mass function measurements in the literature. Our pSMFs showcase the potential and statistical power of BGS, which in its main survey will observe >100 × more galaxies. Moreover, we present the statistical framework for subsequent population statistics measurements using BGS, which will characterize the global galaxy population and scaling relations at low redshifts with unprecedented precision.

A number of works infer radial temperature profiles of envelopes surrounding young stellar objects using several rotational transitions in a pixel-by-pixel or azimuthally averaged basis. However, in many cases the assumption that the rotational temperature is constant along the line of sight is made, while this is not the case when a partially resolved envelope, assumed to be spherically symmetric, is used to obtain values of temperature for different projected radii. This kind of analysis (homogeneous analysis) is intrinsically inconsistent. By using a spherical envelope model to interpret NH3 (1,1) and (2,2) observations, we tested how robust it is to infer radial temperature profiles of an envelope. The temperature and density of the model envelope are power laws of radius, but the density can be flat for an inner central part. The homogeneous analysis was applied to obtain radial temperature profiles, and resulted that for small projected radii, where the optical depth of the lines is high, the homogeneous temperature can be much higher than the actual envelope temperature. In general, for larger projected radii, both the temperature and the temperature power-law index can be underestimated by as much as 40 per cent, and 0.15, respectively. We applied this study to the infrared dark cloud G14.225–0.506 for which the radial temperature profile was previously derived from the dust emission at submillimetre wavelengths and the spectral energy distribution. As expected, the homogeneous analysis underestimated both the temperature and the temperature power-law index.

[EN]The earliness and adaptation of native corn of Tamaulipas in restrictive environments allows considering it a source of variability for genetic improvement programs, so it is necessary to know the genetic effects that control its variation. The objective was to determine the gene action that controls the variation of the earliness of native corn populations of Tamaulipas and the relationship of earliness with grain yield. In Güémez, Tamaulipas, in the agricultural cycles of autumn-winter 2019-2020 and spring-summer 2020 with application and non-application of insecticide to combat S. frugiperda, the genetic effects of days to male and female flowering of six corn populations, their direct and reciprocal crosses were evaluated, through a diallel analysis with the Griffing method, the correlation between flowering and grain yield was analyzed. For male and female flowering, there were no effects of general combining ability and there were effects of specific combining ability, reciprocal and maternal: the variation between cultivars was explained in 53% for male flowering and 45% for female flowering by effects of specific combining ability, for male flowering 38% of the variation between cultivars and 43% for female flowering was due to reciprocal effects. The variation between cultivars depended on non-additive effects and there was cytoplasmic inheritance involved in their expression. Earliness was positively correlated with grain yield in the spring-summer cycle without insecticide application. With high specific combining ability, TML3S3×VHA and Cam×VHA stood out, to take advantage of the reciprocal effects in Cam×VHA, the order of the parents must be considered., [ES]La precocidad y adaptación del maíz nativo de Tamaulipas en ambientes restrictivos, permite considerarlo fuente de variabilidad para programas de mejoramiento genético, por ello es necesario conocer los efectos genéticos que controlan su variación. El objetivo fue determinar la acción génica que controla la variación de la precocidad de poblaciones de maíz nativo de Tamaulipas y la relación de la precocidad con el rendimiento de grano. En Güémez, Tamaulipas, en otoño invierno 2019-2020 y primavera-verano 2020 con aplicación y no aplicación de insecticida para combatir S. frugiperda, se evaluaron los efectos genéticos de días a floración masculina y femenina de seis poblaciones de maíz, sus cruzas directas y reciprocas, mediante un análisis dialélico con el método de Griffing, se analizó la correlación entre la floración y el rendimiento de grano. Para floración masculina y femenina no existieron efectos de aptitud combinatoria general y existieron efectos de aptitud combinatoria especifica, recíprocos y maternos: la variación entre cultivares se explicó en 53% para floración masculina y 45% para femenina por efectos de aptitud combinatoria especifica, para floración masculina 38% de la variación entre cultivares y 43% para femenina fue debida a efectos recíprocos. La variación entre cultivares, dependió de efectos no aditivos y existió herencia citoplasmática involucrada en su expresión. La precocidad se correlacionó positivamente con el rendimiento de grano en el ciclo primavera-verano sin aplicación de insecticida. Con aptitud combinatoria especifica alta sobresalieron TML3S3×VHA y Cam×VHA, para aprovechar los efectos recíprocos en Cam×VHA hay que considerar el orden de los progenitores.

Bismuth titanate (BTO) nanoparticles were obtained by pulsed laser ablation in liquid media (PLAL). Distilled water, ethanol, isopropanol, and acetone were used as media for laser ablation experiments, in which the colloidal solutions were obtained. Laser ablation was carried out using the second harmonic and fundamental wavelength of a pulsed Nd:YAG laser (532 nm and 1064 nm, respectively) with laser fluences of 25 and 12 mJ/cm2, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy was utilized for morphological characterization. BTO nanoparticles obtained have spherical shapes with orthorhombic structure and the average size distribution depended on the liquid media nature. In alcohols, BTO NPs were spherical with a carbon layer around them. X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis absorption spectra, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to confirm the structural, optical, and elemental properties of the ablated products. The presented results show that PLAL is a viable technique for the synthesis of high-quality BTO nanoparticles with enhanced optical properties for possible applications in photocatalysis.

More than 50 per cent of solar-mass stars form in multiple systems. It is therefore crucial to investigate how multiplicity affects the star and planet formation processes at the protostellar stage. We report continuum and C18O (2–1) observations of the VLA 1623–2417 protostellar system at 50 au angular resolution as part of the ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array) Large Program FAUST. The 1.3 mm continuum probes the discs of VLA 1623A, B, and W, and the circumbinary disc of the A1 + A2 binary. The C18O emission reveals, for the first time, the gas in the disc envelope of VLA 1623W. We estimate the dynamical mass of VLA 1623W, Mdyn = 0.45 ± 0.08 M⊙, and the mass of its disc, Mdisc ∼ 6 × 10−3 M⊙. C18O also reveals streamers that extend up to 1000 au, spatially and kinematically connecting the envelope and outflow cavities of the A1 + A2 + B system with the disc of VLA 1623W. The presence of the streamers, as well as the spatial (∼1300 au) and velocity (∼2.2 km s−1) offsets of VLA 1623W, suggests that either sources W and A + B formed in different cores, interacting between them, or source W has been ejected from the VLA 1623 multiple system during its formation. In the latter case, the streamers may funnel material from the envelope and cavities of VLA 1623AB on to VLA 1623W, thus concurring to set its final mass and chemical content.

This article develops a hybrid approach to fault detection and isolation (FDI) based on a machine learning technique and quasi-Linear Parameter Varying (qLPV) zonotopic observers. First, the dynamical model of a wind turbine is identified using an adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), which results in a set of qLPV polytopic models whose form is derived using structural analysis. Second, a bank of qLPV zonotopic observers is implemented to detect sensor and actuator faults. Unlike other works that consider different fault scenarios to train a neuronal network, in this work, only fault-free data is considered for the ANFIS. The FDI is based on the residual generation obtained by a bank of qLPV zonotopic observers of the identified models. Disturbances related to aerodynamic loads and measurement noise are considered to guarantee the robustness of the proposed method. The effectiveness of the proposed method is tested in a 5 MW WT well-known benchmark simulator based on fatigue, aerodynamics, structures, and turbulence under different fault scenarios.

A novel approach for the allylic alkylation of anilines, hydrazides, indole derivatives and additional interesting nucleophiles is described, which involves the direct use of a variety of allylic alcohols under very mild conditions, such as room temperature, and the use of sustainable deep eutectic solvents (DESs). The search for the optimum DES to be used in the reaction revealed that a simple mixture of choline chloride (ChCl) and lactic acid provides excellent results for a wide range of substrates with high isolated yields. This methodology represents a significant improvement compared to other procedures described in the literature, for which high temperatures, stronger reaction conditions or metal catalysts are usually required. In some cases, this protocol provides the first examples of trapping allylic carbocations with indole derivatives. In addition, challenging nucleophiles such as amides, carbamates, azides or sulfonamides, among others, have also been successfully used. All these features render this procedure an appealing and green alternative compared to other examples reported in the literature on the alkylation of amines by allylic alcohols. Preliminary mechanistic studies using unsymmetrically substituted alcohols support that the reaction could proceed via an SN1 pathway.

We describe the process to design, architect, and implement a transformative enhancement of the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT). This program—the next-generation Event Horizon Telescope (ngEHT)—will form a networked global array of radio dishes capable of making high-fidelity real-time movies of supermassive black holes (SMBH) and their emanating jets. This builds upon the EHT principally by deploying additional modest-diameter dishes to optimized geographic locations to enhance the current global mm/submm wavelength Very Long Baseline Interferometric (VLBI) array, which has, to date, utilized mostly pre-existing radio telescopes. The ngEHT program further focuses on observing at three frequencies simultaneously for increased sensitivity and Fourier spatial frequency coverage. Here, the concept, science goals, design considerations, station siting, and instrument prototyping are discussed, and a preliminary reference array to be implemented in phases is described.

The Inulinase from Kluyveromyces marxianus ISO3 (Inu-ISO3) is an enzyme able to hydrolyze linear fructans such as chicory inulin as well as branched fructans like agavin. This enzyme was cloned and expressed in Komagataella pastoris to study the role of selected aromatic and polar residues in the catalytic pocket by Alanine scanning. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and enzyme kinetics analysis were performed to study the functional consequences of these amino acid substitutions. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to construct the mutants of the enzyme after carrying out the MD simulations between Inu-ISO3 and its substrates. Mutation Trp79:Ala resulted in the total loss of activity when fructans were used as substrates, while with sucrose, the activity decreased by 98 %. In contrast, the mutations Phe113:Ala and Gln236:Ala increased the invertase activity when sucrose was used as a substrate. Although these amino acids are not part of the conserved motifs where the catalytic triad is located, they are essential for the enzyme's activity. In silico and experimental approaches corroborate the relevance of these residues for substrate binding and their influence on enzymatic activity.

We investigate the structure of the medium formed in heavy ion collisions using three different models: the Color String Percolation Model (CSPM), the Core-Shell-Color String Percolation Model (CSCSPM), and the Color Glass Condensate (CGC) framework. We analyze the radial distribution function of the transverse representation of color flux tubes in each model to determine the medium's structure. Our results indicate that the CSPM behaves as an ideal gas, while the CSCSPM exhibits a structural phase transition from a gas-like to a liquid-like structure. Additionally, our analysis of the CGC framework suggests that it produces systems that behave like interacting gases for AuAu central collisions at RHIC energies and liquid-like structures for PbPb central collisions at LHC energies.

It has recently been proposed classical analogs of the purity, linear quantum entropy, and von Neumann entropy for classical integrable systems, when the corresponding quantum system is in a Gaussian state. We generalized these results by providing classical analogs of the generalized purities, Bastiaans-Tsallis entropies, R\'enyi entropies, and logarithmic negativity for classical integrable systems. These classical analogs are entirely characterized by the classical covariance matrix. We compute these classical analogs exactly in the cases of linearly coupled harmonic oscillators, a generalized harmonic oscillator chain, and a one-dimensional circular lattice of oscillators. In all of these systems, the classical analogs reproduce the results of their quantum counterparts whenever the system is in a Gaussian state. In this context, our results show that quantum information of Gaussian states can be reproduced by classical information.

Evapotranspiration demand has increased rapidly as temperatures have risen, affecting forest productivity. Consequently, carbon (C) uptake by forests is being modified; therefore, a more refined knowledge of the relationships between C capture and hydroclimate variability is required, particularly in drought-prone regions. In this study, we analyzed the relationships between climate and C capture as stemwood through the dendroecological analyses of radial growth in 15 conifer species distributed along a broad bioclimatic gradient in Mexico. The C content was calculated using densitometry data; correlations and mixed models were then used to determine the influence of climatic variables (precipitation, mean maximum and minimum temperatures, SPEI drought index) on tree growth. Each species showed specific responses to the climate with Taxodium mucronatum being the most responsive species. Both precipitation and maximum temperature best explained changes in C capture, with minimum temperature and SPEI playing secondary roles. The winter before the growth period was the most important season for C capture, particularly through positive responses to wet-cool conditions. However, the climatic influences of the current fall and summer were also notable. Seasonal climatic influences have implications for C uptake and forest productivity in the face of the severe droughts that repeatedly affect the study region.

We present the first 3D radiation-hydrodynamic simulations of the formation of planetary nebulae (PNe) emerging from 3D spiral patterns. We use the GUACHO code to create 3D spiral structures as a consequence of the distortions on the geometry of the intrinsically isotropic wind of an asymptotic giant branch (AGB) star produced by a companion star in a circular orbit. We found that the orbital period of the binary producing the 3D spiral pattern has consequences on the formation and shaping of the PN itself. Stellar systems with longer period create less entwined 3D spirals, producing PNe with rounder inner cavities, and prevent the expansion of jet towards the polar directions. The spiral fitting procedure used in the literature to predict the binary’s orbital period may be misleading in the case of proto-PNe and PNe as spiral patterns are diluted by their own thermal expansion down to the average AGB density profile within a few hundred years and are further disrupted by the action of jets. By adopting a phase of jet ejections between the AGB and post-AGB stages, we are able to recover the morphologies of proto-PNe and PNe that exhibit ring-like structures in their haloes. © 2023 The Author(s) Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Royal Astronomical Society.

Encapsulating and protecting dopamine from oxidation is a difficult challenge. We propose to use SU-101 BioMOF as a dopamine host, where we study different adsorption scenarios by a robust computational approach. Our results show that dopamine encapsulation is feasible with the formation of non-covalent interactions within the SU-101 pores. These computational results have been corroborated experimentally.

[Context] Several radio sources have been detected in the high-mass star-forming region W75N(B), with the massive young stellar objects VLA 1 and VLA 2 shown to be of particular interest among them. These objects are thought to be at different evolutionary stages: VLA 1 is in the early stage of photoionization and driving a thermal radio jet, while VLA 2 is a thermal, collimated ionized wind surrounded by a dusty disk or envelope. In both sources, 22 GHz H2O masers have been detected in the past. Those around VLA 1 show a persistent linear distribution along the thermal radio jet, while those around VLA 2 have traced the evolution from a non-collimated to a collimated outflow over a period of ∼20 yr. The magnetic field inferred from the H2O masers has shown an orientation rotation following the direction of the major-axis of the shell around VLA 2, whereas it is immutable around VLA 1., [Aims] By monitoring the polarized emission of the 22 GHz H2O masers around both VLA 1 and VLA 2 over a period of six years, we aim to determine whether the H2O maser distributions show any variation over time and whether the magnetic field behaves accordingly., [Methods] The European VLBI Network was used in full polarization and phase-reference mode in order to determine the absolute positions of the 22 GHz H2O masers with a beam size of ∼1 mas and to determine the orientation and the strength of the magnetic field. We observed four epochs separated by two years from 2014 to 2020., [Results] We detected polarized emission from the H2O masers around both VLA 1 and VLA 2 in all the epochs. By comparing the H2O masers detected in the four epochs, we find that the masers around VLA 1 are tracing a nondissociative shock originating from the expansion of the thermal radio jet, while the masers around VLA 2 are tracing an asymmetric expansion of the gas that is halted in the northeast where the gas likely encounters a very dense medium. We also found that the magnetic field inferred from the H2O masers in each epoch can be considered as a portion of a quasi-static magnetic field estimated in that location rather than in that time. This allowed us to study the morphology of the magnetic field around both VLA 1 and VLA 2 locally across a larger area by considering the vectors estimated in all the epochs as a whole. We find that the magnetic field in VLA 1 is located along the jet axis, bending toward the north and south at the northeasterly and southwesterly ends of the jet, respectively, reconnecting with the large-scale magnetic field. The magnetic field in VLA 2 is perpendicular to the expansion directions until it encounters the denser matter in the northeast, where the magnetic field is parallel to the expansion direction and agrees with the large-scale magnetic field. We also measured the magnetic field strength along the line of sight in three of the four epochs, with resulting values of −764 mG < B||VLA 1 < − 676 mG and −355 mG < B||VLA 2 < −2426 mG.

Ants play a key role in improving the structure and function of local communities. They interact with plants, herbivores, predators and parasitoids and are able to change their trophic role in space and time. These features, however, make it difficult to establish the net trophic role of ants in agroecosystems. Here we aim to determine the isotopic enrichment and tissue incorporation rates in ants of the Tapinoma nigerrimum complex, which are found abundantly in olive orchards (i.e. T. ibericum), to determine their trophic role through stable isotopes analysis. We compared the isotopic signature of ants feeding on (1) natural diets, (2) experimental diets and (3) contrasting diets of ants inhabiting natural habitats and olive orchards with different management systems. Then, we contrasted our isotopic results on natural diets with the prey of ant foragers in olive orchards. Our results showed that (1) ants from olive orchards had an isotopic signature different from that of a hyper-predator; (2) the isotopic signature did not vary significantly amongst different management practices and (3) the diet of ants in nature varies greatly on preys according to resource availability, which may be reflected in isotopic signatures. Therefore, T. ibericum is a species that can potentially contribute to control olive pests without posing a risk to other natural enemies because commonly it is not a hyper-predator. The information presented here could be used by farmers and technicians to enhance local biological control planning and/or strategies in olive orchards.

Sympatric distribution and syntopy are not common in closely related species since sporadic crosses may lead to the formation of hybrid zones disrupting the differentiation of sympatric incipient species. In Central Spain two morphologically similar species of Mediimorda Méquignon, 1946, M. batteni Plaza-Infante, 1985 and M. bipunctata (Germar, 1827) are strictly sympatric. Mediimorda batteni is endemic to the Iberian Peninsula while M. bipunctata is widely distributed in the Western Palaearctic Region. Intriguingly, sympatric distribution among closely related taxa that exhibits little morphological variation is not common. This makes us wonder if we are really facing two independent evolutionary units of Mediimorda as previously proposed or just two phenotypic morphs of a single taxon. To test for this hypothesis, we performed Bayesian and phylogeographic analyses based on mitochondrial (cox1) and nuclear (ITS2) data and estimated divergence time of clades. Additionally, a morphological revision and construction of potential distribution models were included to determine possible niche differences. Our results corroborate the existence of two lineages well differentiated, that probably diverged during the Pliocene. According to the morphology, each clade corresponds to the previously recognized M. batteni and M. bipunctata. The absence of hybridization and ecological segregation suggests that sympatric and syntopic distribution was accomplished long time after the speciation event that separated the two taxa took place. We propose that the divergence between clades was originated by allopatric speciation during the Late Pliocene subsequently followed by range shifts during the Pleistocene climatic oscillations, which resulted in the current syntopy of the two taxa.

Lava domes exhibit highly unpredictable and hazardous behavior, which is why imaging their morphological evolution to decipher the underlying governing mechanisms remains a major challenge. Using high-resolution satellite radar imagery enhanced with deep-learning, we image the repetitive dome construction-subsidence cycles at Popocatépetl volcano (Mexico) with very high temporal and spatial resolution. We show that these cycles resemble gas-driven rise and fall of the upper magma column, where buoyant bubble-rich magma is extruded from the conduit (in ~hours-days), and successively drained back (in ~days-months) as magma degasses and crystallizes. These cycles are superimposed on a progressive decadal crater deepening, accompanied by heat and gas flux decrease, which could be partially explained by gas depletion within the magma plumbing system. Results reinforce the idea that gas retention and escape from the magma column play a key role in the short- and long-term morphological evolution of low-viscosity lava domes and their associated hazards.

We use the two-flavor Linear Sigma Model with quarks to study the phase structure of isospin asymmetric matter at zero temperature. The meson degrees of freedom provide the mean field chiral and isospin condensates on top of which we compute the effective potential accounting for constituent quark fluctuations at one-loop order. Using the renormalizability of the model, we absorb the ultraviolet divergences into suitable counterterms that are added respecting the original structure of the theory. These counterterms are determined from the stability conditions which require the effective potential to have minima in the condensates directions at the classical values, as well as the transition from the noncondensed to the condensed phase to be smooth as a function of the isospin chemical potential. We use the model to study the evolution of the condensates as well as the pressure, energy and isospin densities and the sound velocity as functions of the isospin chemical potential. The approach does a good average description up to isospin chemical potentials values not too large as compared to the vacuum pion mass.

In this work, we developed a hybrid nanosystem able to simultaneously combine its potential as a photodynamic (PDT) and plasmonic photothermal (PPTT) therapeutic agent to kill malignant cells. To do that, AuNRs were functionalized by means of the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly technique using alternating layers of anionic poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) and cationic poly-L-lysine (PLL) as polyelectrolytes (PEs), and an outer final layer of hyaluronic acid (HA) to provide the hybrid particles with both sufficient colloidal stability and targeting ability to tumoral cells overexpressing CD44 receptors. To provide the nanoplatform with PDT capabilities, the near-infrared (NIR) sensitive photosensitizer (PS) indocyanine green (ICG) was previously grafted to the PLL PE and assembled on the particle surface coating; in this manner, PSS/PLL-ICG/HA-coated AuNRs hybrid particles were obtained. Then, the conditions for optimized reactive oxygen species (ROS) production under NIR light excitation were elucidated, reaching ca. 80% after 5 min irradiation at 2.0 W/cm2 compared to positive control (H2O2). Since ICG can also absorb near infrared (NIR) light and transforms it by internal conversion into heat under suitable irradiation conditions, which adds to the photothermal plasmonic effect provided by the metallic NP, the heating profiles provided by the present hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) were measured, being observed temperature increments ranging from 9 to 22 °C. The potential contribution of its different components to both PDT and PPTT were deeply analyzed in vitro for intended cancer therapeutics at several power intensities but also at different temperatures with the aim of elucidating the role played by both phototherapies on cell cytotoxicity, the optimal illumination conditions for effective bimodal phototherapy as well as the elucidation of the main cell death mechanism involved. Under optimized conditions and after the administration of 2.5 ·1010 NPs/mL, cell cytotoxici

A better characterization of the rich variety of anomalous ionic-electronic mechanisms in organic-inorganic metal halide perovskite solar cells is essential to obtain a stable and physically robust interpretation of the dynamic responses obtained. Therefore, new approaches towards light intensity-induced effects understanding are intensively searched for. Among all the mechanisms whose elucidation is locked and still under live debate, the apparent inductance phenomena stand out, which are visible not only in photovoltaic devices and optoelectronic elements, but also, for instance, in electrochemical and biological systems. Usually, the negative loops in impedance spectra are modeled through ideal elements (negative capacitance or inductance) although the results show systematic deviations (constant-phase-element behavior). In most scenarios, the influence of chemical inductance dispersion is somehow neglected, that is, ideal conditions are mimicked, omitting the practical device operation. Here we reformulate the theory that captures the slow (non-electromagnetic) inductive effects in the current-voltage curves of perovskite solar cells, deciphering the microscale behavior, consisting essentially of defects associated with deep trap states, from macroscale observations and experimental measurements. The audience is potentially huge, since many authors of multidisciplinary backgrounds are genuinely interested in adequately interpreting this behavior of general character.

The Gulf of Mexico (GoM) is one of the most dynamic marginal seas in the world owing to the intrusion of the Loop Current and the shedding of anticyclonic eddies (LCE) that travel westward across the Gulf. However, the impacts of these mesoscale dynamics on the supply and removal of bioessential trace metals in surface waters remain unclear. We study the impact of mesoscale eddies on the distribution of dissolved nickel (Ni), a biologically active element scarcely studied in the region. The vertical distribution of Ni was determined in the deep-water region of the GoM during summer of 2017, when two anticyclonic LCE (Quantum and Poseidon) were present. Nutrient-like profiles of Ni in the GoM resemble those from the Atlantic Ocean, but they showed high spatial variability within the first 1000 m, which was associated with the impact of mesoscale eddies. Similarly to subtropical gyres, macronutrients were almost depleted in surface waters, while Ni never fell below 1.51 nmol kg-1, suggesting low Ni lability or alternatively, slow biological uptake compared to that of macronutrients. In particular, lowest levels of Ni and macronutrients (PO4 and NO3) were recorded in surface waters of the anticyclonic eddies and the Loop Current area. Anticyclonic LCEs deepened these Ni-poor waters pushing the Ni-rich core of Tropical Atlantic Central Water up to 600 m, whereas its shallowest position (up to 200 m) was recorded under cyclonic conditions in Campeche Bay. This eddy-induced vertical displacement of water masses also affected the integrated Ni and macronutrient concentrations in the upper 350 m but without modifying their stoichiometries. We suggest that a significant decrease in surface inventories of Ni and macronutrient in areas impacted by LCEs is a consequence of the trapping of the water within eddies, the biological uptake of Ni and macronutrients combined with their limited replenishment from below, which likely affects autotrophic groups. In conclusion, the mesosc

Molecular diversity of microglia, the resident immune cells in the CNS, is reported. Whether microglial subsets characterized by the expression of specific proteins constitute subtypes with distinct functions has not been fully elucidated. Here we describe a microglial subtype expressing the enzyme arginase-1 (ARG1; that is, ARG1+ microglia) that is found predominantly in the basal forebrain and ventral striatum during early postnatal mouse development. ARG1+ microglia are enriched in phagocytic inclusions and exhibit a distinct molecular signature, including upregulation of genes such as Apoe, Clec7a, Igf1, Lgals3 and Mgl2, compared to ARG1- microglia. Microglial-specific knockdown of Arg1 results in deficient cholinergic innervation and impaired dendritic spine maturation in the hippocampus where cholinergic neurons project, which in turn results in impaired long-term potentiation and cognitive behavioral deficiencies in female mice. Our results expand on microglia diversity and provide insights into microglia subtype-specific functions.

The thermal stability and degradation, near-to-surface mechanical properties, and scratch resistance and damage mechanism of poly(etheretherketone) (PEEK)/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposite coatings are analyzed and discussed in terms of their nanosheet content and microstructure. Although RGO modified the thermal stability and degradation of the polymeric matrix, for instance, by slightly reducing the onset degradation temperature, its addition was not a limiting factor in the PEEK processing. Respecting the microstructural features induced by the nanosheets, the nanocomposite coatings were found to exhibit (i) a partially exfoliated and large-scale co-continuous morphology related to RGO nanosheets whose basal planes were mainly aligned with the coating surface, (ii) a dendritic morphology of PEEK domains related to transcrystallinity, (iii) and irregular domains associated with the deposition of PEEK particles wrapped by the nanosheets. The changes provoked by RGO in the morphology and PEEK crystalline phase influenced the near-to-surface mechanical properties, scratch resistance, and scratch damage mechanism of the nanocomposite coatings. Within this context, the interlayer strength between the nanosheets in the large-scale co-continuous morphology and PEEK transcrystallinity had an important effect. Furthermore, the random-bumpy surface texture formed by the irregular PEEK domains together with the conformal cracking damage mechanism was decisive in the scratch response of the PEEK/RGO nanocomposite coatings. The comprehensive characterization carried out in this work concludes that PEEK/RGO electrophoretic coatings are suitable for a variety of applications requiring tribo-mechanical resistance. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]

The Janzen–Connell hypothesis (JCH) predicts that attack by specialist enemies on seedlings increases with conspecific seedling density, but studies have rarely experimentally tested for the contingency of such effects on the tree community context (e.g. diversity, composition) ormeasured responses by different enemies (e.g. herbivores, pathogens). We conducted a field study in a large-scale system evaluating tree species diversity and conspecific density effects on leaf damage on mahogany Swietenia macrophylla seedlings. We established quadrats of eight levels of seedling density across mahogany tree monocultures and tree species polycultures including mahogany, and recorded percent leaf damage by insects and percent leaf necrosis by a pathogenic fungus on mahogany seedlings. We found contrasting effects of tree species diversity on insects and pathogens. Whereas tree diversity did not affect leaf damage by insects, it had a significant negative effect on leaf necrosis by pathogens whereby, on average, percent leaf necrosis on mahogany seedlings in polyculture was half of that observed in monoculture. We discuss the potential influences of changes in mahogany tree density versus frequency (relative to other tree species) driving this diversity effect. Unexpectedly, we found no effect of seedling conspecific density on either leaf insect or pathogen damage (i.e. density-independent attack). Likewise, we found no significant tree diversity by seedling density interaction, indicating that plant enemies were consistently unresponsive to variation in seedling density acrosslevels of tree diversity. Overall, this study provides a unique test of the JCH by experimentally evaluating seedling density and tree diversity effects on contrasting plant enemies and, in turn, the controls they exert over plant recruitment.

The aim of the present manuscript is to obtain dense MgO refractories by means of two novel different routes: TiO2 nanoparticles in brucite (Mg(OH)2, R1) and TiO2 nanoparticles in caustic magnesia (MgO, R2). Therefore, contents of TiO2 nanoparticles were added at 1, 3, and 5 wt % to brucite and caustic magnesia while the reference sample consisted in 100 wt % MgO (R0), which was obtained from calcined brucite. The nanoparticles were mixed with the brucite in the first route (R1), and the mixtures were first calcined at 960 °C and then cold uniaxially pressed at 150 MPa and subsequently sintered at 1600 °C for 4 h. Also, TiO2 nanoparticles were mixed with the caustic magnesia in the second route (R2), and the mixtures were then cold uniaxially pressed and sintered at 1600 °C. Different techniques were considered to characterize the composites: Thermal Analysis, XRD, SEM, bulk density and porosity, and cold crushing strength (CCS). Results suggest that the route 1 produces MgO–TiO2 composites with greater densification rate (density is at least a 3.29% greater) and better mechanical properties (CCS is at least a 20% better) than the route 2. Therefore, starting from brucite (Mg(OH)2) to obtain MgO–TiO2 composites is a better alternative to produce a material with greater densification and better mechanical properties.

Color in food represents an important parameter of quality. This investigation aimed to extract anthocyanins from purple sweet potato using the ultrasound technique, and their application in a food product. The extract obtained at pH 2.5, 60% amplitude and 10 min presented the highest content of anthocyanins, the highest phenolic content, best color properties and lowest residual activity of enzymes. A response optimization analysis was performed, where the experimental results matched the predicted values in the optimal sample. This optimal extract was added as a natural anthocyanin-colorant in ice pops, which were stored and analyzed for one month. The anthocyanins content in ice pops was kept at 80% until day 21, and the pH, soluble solids, and color properties did not presented changes during storage. Concluding that the natural colorant had similar stability to the synthetic colorant. The extract from purple sweet potato has potential to be used as natural colorant in ice pops.

Color is the first attribute that influences the acceptance of foods as they become more attractive to consumers when they are more intense and uniform. In recent years, the interest of producers and consumers in purchasing products containing natural ingredients have constantly increased. Natural pigments are commonly extracted from fruits and vegetables, and have been proven to provide health benefits to reduce the risk of diseases such as type-1 diabetes, obesity, and coronary diseases. Additionally, advanced extraction and encapsulation technologies that make food matrices more efficient are useful tools for improving the use of these pigments. In this review, the state-of-the-art of pigments such as carotenoids, anthocyanins, and betalains of plant origin are discussed, including their main sources of production and the factors that affect their physicochemical stability. In addition, different extraction methods are discussed, listing their advantages and disadvantages, and providing some applications of natural pigments in food.

Proteins containing PDZ (post-synaptic density, PSD-95/disc large, Dlg/zonula occludens, ZO-1) domains assemble signaling complexes that orchestrate cell responses. Viral pathogens target host PDZ proteins by coding proteins containing a PDZ-binding motif (PBM). The presence of a PBM in the SARS-CoV-2 E protein contributes to the virus’s pathogenicity. SARS-CoV-2 infects epithelia, but also cells from the innate immune response, including monocytes and alveolar macrophages. This process is critical for alterations of the immune response that are related to the deaths caused by SARS-CoV-2. Identification of E-protein targets in immune cells might offer clues to understanding how SARS-CoV-2 alters the immune response. We analyzed the interactome of the SARS-CoV-2 E protein in human monocytes. The E protein was expressed fused to a GFP tag at the amino terminal in THP-1 monocytes, and associated proteins were identified using a proteomic approach. The E-protein interactome provided 372 partners; only 8 of these harbored PDZ domains, including the cell polarity protein ZO-2, the chemoattractant IL-16, and syntenin. We addressed the expression and localization of the identified PDZ proteins along the differentiation of primary and THP-1 monocytes towards macrophages and dendritic cells. Our data highlight the importance of identifying the functions of PDZ proteins in the maintenance of immune fitness and the viral alteration of inflammatory response.

The avocado industry obtains 20–30% of the total by-products (peels and seeds). However, byproducts can be uses as sources of economic nutraceutical ingredients with functional potential. This work developed emulsion-type ingredients from avocado seed to evaluate its quality, stability, cytotoxicity, and nutraceutical properties before/after in vitro oral-gastric digestion. Ultrasound lipid extraction achieved an extraction yield of up to 95.75% compared with Soxhlet conventional extraction (p > 0.05). Six ingredients’ formulations (E1-E6) were stable for up to day 20 during storage, preserving their antioxidant capacity and displaying low in vitro oxidation compared to control. None of the emulsion-type ingredients were considered cytotoxic according to the shrimp lethality assay (LC50 > 1000 µg/mL). Ingredients E2, E3, and E4 generated low lipoperoxides’ concentrations and high antioxidant capacity during the oral-gastric stage. The 25 min-gastric phase showed the highest antioxidant capacity and low lipoperoxidation. Results suggested avocado seed-derived could be used to develop functional ingredients with nutraceutical properties.

The popping of grains has been mainly used to produce ready-to-eat snacks. However, the popping effect on techno-functional properties and possible industrial applications is still unknown. This work evaluated the physicochemical, thermal, rheological, and techno-functional properties of flours from popped grains (FPG). White sorghum and corn grains were adjusted to initial moisture of 11 and 15% and popped using hot-air (210 °C, 90s). The physicochemical, thermal, rheological, and techno-functional properties were assessed in raw and popped flours. Raw flours showed different physicochemical and techno-functional attributes. However, the popping process homogenized their characteristics, behaving similarly in both FPG. Thermal properties evidenced a complete starch gelatinization in FPG and increased their initial viscosity from 8.4 (raw) to 794 cP. SPG showed a constant viscosity under heating-cooling conditions. The techno-functional properties of FPG showed higher water absorption and solubility (134–160%) values than raw ones. The syneresis was reduced in gels from FPG, reaching less than 3.6% after 48 h of storage. Finally, the FPG gels showed a more elastic matrix with lower deformation and higher cohesion. The techno-functional properties of FPG suggest that they can be used as food additives to improve consistency and stability.

Psidium guajava L. and Psidium friedrichsthalianum Nied are part of the Psidium species native to America. Nowadays, it is essential to study the phenolic compound (PC) profile and their changes during digestion and the fractions available for absorption. This study aimed to characterize the PC profile in some Psidium species and their bioaccessibility (BA). Fifty-seven compounds were identified, and forty-six belonged to ten different phenolic classes. PC profiles showed significant differences between the species and the intestinal fraction P. friedrichsthalianum Nied. showed the highest PC content, although it mostly belonged to non-extractable polyphenols. This leads to the lowest BA (37%); P. guajava L. ‘Morada’ showed the highest (47%). Hydroxycinnamic acids were the most stable PC after gastrointestinal digestion. This study showed relevant differences in the PC content and profile of different Psidium species and changes between the PC in the original matrix and those released in the different stages of gastrointestinal digestion.

The role of minerals in the origin of life and prebiotic evolution remains unknown and controversial. Mineral surfaces have the potential to facilitate prebiotic polymerization due to their ability to adsorb and concentrate biomolecules that subsequently can catalyse reactions; however, the precise nature of the interaction between the mineral host and the guest biomolecule still needs to be understood. In this context, we spectroscopically characterized, using infrared, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, the interaction between L-proline and montmorillonite, olivine, iron disulphide, and haematite (minerals of prebiotic interest), by evaluating their interaction from a liquid medium. This work provides insight into the chemical processes occurring between proline, the only cyclic amino acid, and this selection of minerals, each of them bearing a particular chemical and crystal structures. Proline was successfully adsorbed on montmorillonite, haematite, olivine, and iron disulphide in anionic and zwitterionic chemical forms, being the predominant form directly related to the mineral structure and composition. Silicates (montmorillonite) dominate adsorption, whereas iron oxides (haematite) show the lowest molecular affinity. This approach will help to understand structure-affinity relationship between the mineral surfaces and proline, one of the nine amino acids generated in the Miller-Urey experiment.

The use of bioabsorbable metals as temporary medical implants has attracted considerable research interest as they do not require a second surgical operation for removal after the healing process is completed. However, magnesium (Mg) and its alloys have a degradation rate that is too high in biological environments. Therefore, it must be controlled using various strategies. In this study, an AZ31-Mg-based alloy coated with CeO2 is investigated to analyse the effect of the coating on its corrosion protection and biocompatibility. The AZ31 alloy is anodised with NaOH solution, before coating to stabilise the alloy surface. The CeO2 coating is deposited on anodised AZ31 by chemical conversion treatment. The electrochemical properties of samples are evaluated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic polarisation curves using Hank’s solution. Structural and morphological characterisation of the samples are performed using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Additionally, biocompatibility is determined by live/dead assay using MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts. The preliminary results indicate that CeO2 coatings exhibit higher electrochemical properties. Additionally, an increase in the ratio of live/dead cells of the AZ31OH-CeO2 surface is detected, in contrast with AZ31, thus indicating improvement in biocompatibility upon CeO2 coating.

[EN] The use of concentrated solar energy to provide heat in the hydrothermal liquefaction is an attractive method to transform biomass into valuable products reducing the environmental impact. However, the coupling of both technologies requires further research. This work analyses the effect of solar fluctuations on the yields, and main characteristics of products obtained in a solar reactor with direct heating method. Results indicate that by direct heating in a solar furnace, at sustained reaction temperatures of 250 ºC, produced a bio-oil and char yield up 24 and 33%, respectively. The results are consistent with conventional heating systems, however direct heating results in higher temperature gradients between the frontal and nonirradiated walls (above 200 ºC), which results in an unstable system, especially at high heating rates and temperatures above 300 ºC, therefore, at the end of this work a modified solar reactor was proposed., [ES] El uso de energía solar concentrada para suministrar calor en el procesamiento hidrotermal de biomasa representa una alternativa atractiva para la transformación de biomasa en productos valiosos con menor impacto ambiental. Sin embargo, el acoplamiento de ambas tecnologías requiere más investigación en el tema. Este trabajo analiza el efecto de las variaciones en la irradiancia solar en los rendimientos y composición de los productos. Los principales resultados muestran rendimientos en el bioaceite y carbón de hasta 24 y 33%, respectivamente. Adicionalmente, se encontró que el tiempo de residencia entre 30-60 min favorece la formación superficial de una estructura porosa en el carbón. Los resultados obtenidos son consistentes con los sistemas de calentamiento convencional, sin embargo, el calentamiento directo del reactor solar genera grandes gradientes térmicos entre la pared frontal y la pared no irradiada (arriba de 200 ºC), lo que resulta en un sistema inestable, especialmente con rampas de calentamiento rápidas y temperaturas arriba de 300 ºC, por lo tanto, al final de este trabajo se propone un reactor mejorado.

We present a detailed investigation on the formation of supersaturated GaAs using Ti+ implantation followed by nanosecond Pulsed Laser Melting (PLM). We have synthesized high-crystal quality supersaturated GaAs layers with concentrations of Ti above the insulator to metal transition (Mott limit). The Ti-implanted concentration depth profiles after PLM obtained by Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS) show a redistribution of Ti impurities within the first hundred nanometers and superficial concentration up to 1 × 1021 cm−3. Raman spectroscopy of these Ti supersaturated, and regrown GaAs samples shows a sharp crystalline peak and tensile strain due to the Ti lattice incorporation. Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) and high-resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images show a good GaAs crystallinity after the PLM process. Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) reveals an enhanced Ti signal inside bubble-like structures and an appearance of interface oxide layer with all processed samples.