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Non-destructive methodologies using activation analysis and ion beam analysis techniques were optimized for the chemical characterization of ceramic materials, lithium titanate and lithium niobate, which have application in tritium breeding blanket. The analyses were carried out as a part of chemical quality control exercise. The atomic ratios of Li/Ti, Li/Nb were quantified by charged particle activation analysis using 13 MeV proton beam from variable energy cyclotron facility and particle induced gamma ray emission/Rutherford backscattering spectrometry using 3 MeV/2 MeV proton beam from 3MV tandem accelerator facility. The results of these different analytical methods are in good agreement, which established the applicability of these activation analysis and ion beam techniques for the chemical characterization of these ceramic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HfO2 has allured the significant attention on account of its chemical and thermal stability, large bandgap value, high dielectric constant and refractive index, good transmittance values in ultraviolet and infrared bands establish it as a significant candidate for resistive switching oxide and optical materials. In the present work the effect of Ag ion beam with 120 MeV high energy treatment of HfO2 ALD grown thin films with thickness 40 nm is examined at distinct ion fluence from 1E12 to 1E13 ions/cm2. The present work reports the influence of 120 MeV Ag ion beam irradiation on the optical, structural and morphological characteristics of thin films grown by ALD method on glass and silicon substrate. The Tauc plots have been used to calculate the optical bandgap of films give the details of structure of films on account of slope of the plot is associated with the degree of the order in the network of bond. The SRIM simulation has been explored for the study of electronic and nuclear energy loss takes place in the samples. Structural analysis of pristine and ion beam irradiated thin films were studied by the X-ray diffraction technique. The effect of ion beam irradiation on the surface morphology were studied by the Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), reveals that grain size rely on the variation takes place in the ion beam fluence. The ion beam causes surface state and interstitial defects in thin films samples as remarked by the Photoluminescence characterization method. Additionally, the RBS was used for the calculation of thickness of films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last 20 years, the global production of dimension stones has grown rapidly. Today, seven countries—China, India, Turkey, Iran, Italy, Brazil, and Spain—account for around two-thirds of the world's output of dimension stones. Each one has annual production levels of nine to over twenty-two million tons. Mining operation in general is one of the most hazardous fields of engineering. A large amount of dimensional stone quarries require a special scheme of risk assessment. Risk Breakdown Structure is one of the major stages of risk assessment. In this paper, a detailed structure of risks of the dimension stone quarrying is formed, and divided into 17 main levels and 128 sublevels. The complexity of identifying different parameters made it requisite to use multi-attribute decision-making methods for prioritizing associated risks. As a case study, the main risks of the Ghasre Dasht marble mine are evaluated using the VIKOR method considering 10 major parameters under a Fuzzy environment. The results showed that the economic, Management, and Schedule risks are the most threatening risks of dimensional stone quarrying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methanogens are the main biological producers of methane on Earth. Methanosarcina acetivorans is one of the best characterized methanogens that has powerful genetic tools for genome editing. To study the physiology of this methanogen in further detail as well as to effectively balance the flux of their engineered metabolic pathways in expansive project undertakings, there is the need for controlled gene expression, which then requires the availability of well-characterized promoters and ribosome-binding sites (RBS). In this study, we constructed a library of 33 promoter--RBS combinations that includes 13 wild-type and 14 hybrid combinations, as well as six combination variants in which the 5'-untranslated region (5'UTR) was rationally engineered. The expression strength for each combination was calculated by inducing the expression of the β-glucuronidase reporter gene in M. acetivorans cells in the presence of the two most used growth substrates, either methanol (MeOH) or trimethyl amine (TMA). In this study, the constructed library covers a relatively wide range (140-fold) between the weakest and strongest promoter--RBS combination as well as shows a steady increase and allows different levels of gene expression. Effects on the gene expression strength were also assessed by making measurements at three distinct growth phases for all 33 promoter--RBS combinations. Our promoter--RBS library is effective in enabling the fine-tuning of gene expression in M. acetivorans for physiological studies and the design of metabolic engineering projects that, e.g., aim for the biotechnological valorization of one-carbon compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rock bolts play a critical role in ground support in mining, tunneling and construction. Being able to obtain timely information on rock bolt load condition and deformation could help immensely in safeguarding workers' safety, optimization of ground support system, and ensuring stability and longevity of underground structures. The objective of this work was to develop a practical ultrasonic rock bolt sensing technology for monitoring axial load and deformation of a full-bodied rock bolt in both elastic and plastic deformation regimes. To this end, empirical mathematical models involving simultaneous use of times of flight of longitudinal and shear ultrasonic waves propagating along the axial direction of the rock bolt were developed, sensors were designed and fabricated, and laboratory studies were conducted. The results showed that the technology was able to measure load change, provide early detection of yield, and measure both plastic and total elongations of the rock bolt undergoing a pull test. Additionally, sectional load and elongation information could be obtained by applying the technology to rock bolts divided into sections by drilled holes along their shanks, therefore, providing the capability to assess the condition of grouted bolts at different depths within a rock mass. This work has laid the groundwork for the deployment of the technology in the field. Highlights: Empirical models based on simultaneous use of times of flight of longitudinal and shear ultrasonic waves were proposed for condition monitoring of full-bodied rock bolts Methods for instrumenting full-bodied rock bolts were developed Calibration methods for determining values of parameters used in the empirical models were established Pull testing showed that the technology could measure load changes within and beyond the elastic limit, detect yield, and measure plastic and total elongations of the rock bolt Sectional load and elongation information could be obtained by applying the technology to rock bolts divided into sections by drilled holes along their shanks [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Over the last 20 years, the global production of dimension stones has grown rapidly. Today, seven countries—China, India, Turkey, Iran, Italy, Brazil, and Spain—account for around two-thirds of the world's output of dimension stones. Each one has annual production levels of nine to over twenty-two million tons. Mining operation in general is one of the most hazardous fields of engineering. A large amount of dimensional stone quarries require a special scheme of risk assessment. Risk Breakdown Structure is one of the major stages of risk assessment. In this paper, a detailed structure of risks of the dimension stone quarrying is formed, and divided into 17 main levels and 128 sublevels. The complexity of identifying different parameters made it requisite to use multi-attribute decision-making methods for prioritizing associated risks. As a case study, the main risks of the Ghasre Dasht marble mine are evaluated using the VIKOR method considering 10 major parameters under a Fuzzy environment. The results showed that the economic, Management, and Schedule risks are the most threatening risks of dimensional stone quarrying.

This study investigates the practices and rules of Genoese gilding, drawing insights from a 16th-century manuscript containing regulations for gold leaf production. Employing X-ray and ion beam techniques, we quantitatively assess the manuscript’s gold leaf thickness without destructive sampling. Artisanal goldbeater-produced leaves of different thicknesses, applied with a guazzo or mordant technique, served as standards. Further analysis of samples with unknown thickness from the furniture of Palazzo Spinola di Pellicceria in Genoa (Italy) has confirmed the method’s applicability to practical cases. External beam Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) and particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analyses were carried out using 3 MeV protons at the LABEC accelerator laboratory in Florence. A linear relationship between Gold Lα peak yield and leaf thickness, as measured by RBS, has been established for optimal calibration of portable or hand-held X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) instrumentation for in situ measurements. Moreover, the caratage of the gold foil preserved in the manuscript has been assessed.

This study investigates the practices and rules of Genoese gilding, drawing insights from a 16th-century manuscript containing regulations for gold leaf production. Employing X-ray and ion beam techniques, we quantitatively assess the manuscript's gold leaf thickness without destructive sampling. Artisanal goldbeater-produced leaves of different thicknesses, applied with a guazzo or mordant technique, served as standards. Further analysis of samples with unknown thickness from the furniture of Palazzo Spinola di Pellicceria in Genoa (Italy) has confirmed the method's applicability to practical cases. External beam Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) and particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analyses were carried out using 3 MeV protons at the LABEC accelerator laboratory in Florence. A linear relationship between Gold Lα peak yield and leaf thickness, as measured by RBS, has been established for optimal calibration of portable or hand-held X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) instrumentation for in situ measurements. Moreover, the caratage of the gold foil preserved in the manuscript has been assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the study of chemical, physical, and electrochemical behavior of bismuth and oxygen-based thin films, produced through an unbalanced magnetron sputtering (UMS) technique in reactive phase, is presented. The main aim of this investigation is to analyze the influence of Ar/O2 gas flow on the microstructure, chemical composition, and corrosion properties of bismuth and oxygen-based thin films. Coatings were grown keeping the power at 50 W with a mixture of Ar:O2 (80/20) as constants, while the gas flow rate was varied taking values of 12, 15, 20, 25, and 30 sccm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were carried out showing that films exhibited a polycrystalline Bi phase and no crystalline bismuth oxide phases. For elemental composition analysis, the Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS) technique was used. The results suggested that film compositions were a mixture of metallic bismuth and amorphous bismuth oxide; moreover, chemical elemental distribution was studied using proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) measurements determining that before the corrosion analysis, samples exhibited a uniform distribution of Bi and O. Finally, the influence of the gas flow on the films anticorrosive properties was discussed. Potentiodynamic polarization technique results revealed that the corrosive behavior highly depends on the sample production parameters; samples grown at 20 and 30 sccm showed the best corrosion resistance represented in lower corrosion current density. This behavior is probably due to the thickness of these films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of nanoparticles has significantly increased in many areas, such as biomedical research, being highly useful as nanoprobes for imaging and as nanocarriers for drug delivery applications. Nevertheless, this potential can only be achieved with the correct characterization of the nanoparticles, since their size and shape can directly affect their biological behavior. In this study, we propose a novel approach for a monolayer deposition of gold and platinum nanoparticles on Si substrates suitable for medium energy ion scattering (MEIS) analysis. The samples were prepared using poly(ethylene glycol) 6000 (PEG 6000) as a coating agent for the substrates, utilizing a spin coater-a versatile, cost-effective, and practical technique. The samples were first analyzed with the RBS technique to assess the adhesion and the overlapping of the nanoparticles in the substrates coated with PEG 6000 and then characterized through the MEIS technique. The analysis through MEIS allowed the determination of the shape, size, and coverage area of the nanoparticles. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy were also performed on the samples, with the results corroborating the findings of the MEIS experiment. Together, the data obtained with microscopy and the MEIS technique suggests the effectiveness of the method in the production of monolayer samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amorphous oxide thin films grown by thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) typically contain high impurity concentrations of hydrogen, which affects both chemistry and structure and thereby the functional properties, such as the barrier properties in, for example, microelectronic and photovoltaic devices. This study discloses the effect of H incorporation in amorphous Al2O3 ALD oxide films on the local chemical binding states of Al, O and H, as well as the oxide density and stoichiometry, by a combined analytical approach using elastic recoil detection analysis, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy and full chemical state analysis by dual‐source X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS)/hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES). The experimental findings are compared with crystalline anhydrous α‐Al2O3 and hydroxide α‐Al (OH)3 reference phases and further supported by molecular dynamic simulations. It is shown that H preferably forms covalent –OH hydroxyl bonds with O in the nearest‐neighbour coordination spheres of interstitial Al cations, which affects both the ligand electronic polarizability and the bond length of the randomly interconnected [AlOn] polyhedral building blocks in the amorphous ALD oxide films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time synchronization technology, as one of the core technologies for wireless microseismic sensor networks. is crucial for the coordinated operation of the network. This paper first studies the principles of time synchronization in wireless sensor networks and the factors affecting synchronization accuracy. Secondly. it explores the implementation methods of classic wireless time synchronization protocols. Next. it simulates and compares the synchronization accuracy of the Timing-sync Protocol for Sensor Networks (TPSN) and the Flooding Time Synchronization Protocol(FTSP) . Then, addressing the shortcomings of the FTSP protocol, an improved G-FTSP protocol is proposed, which can effectively enhance the time synchronization accuracy of wireless sensor networks. Finally, the paper estimates the microseismic source localization errors caused by time synchronization errors, verifying that the G-FTSP protocol meets practical production requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Response Bias Scale (RBS) is the central measure of cognitive over-reporting in the MMPI-family of instruments. Relative to other clinical populations, the research evaluating the detection of over-reporting is more limited in Veteran and Active-Duty personnel, which has produced some psychometric variability across studies. Some have suggested that the original scale construction methods resulted in items which negatively impact classification accuracy and in response crafted an abbreviated version of the RBS (RBS-19; Ratcliffe et al., 2022; Spencer et al., 2022). In addition, the most recent edition of the MMPI is based on new normative data, which impacts the ability to use existing literature to determine effective cut-scores for the RBS (despite all items having been retained across MMPI versions). To date, no published research exists for the MMPI-3 RBS. The current study examined the utility of the RBS and the RBS-19 in a sample of Active-Duty personnel (n = 186) referred for neuropsychological evaluation. Using performance validity tests as the study criterion, we found that the RBS-19 was generally equitably to RBS in classification. Correlations with other MMPI-2-RF over- and under-reporting symptom validity tests were slightly stronger for RBS-19. Implications and directions for research and practice with RBS/RBS-19 are discussed, along with implications for neuropsychological assessment and response validity theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The routine testing and monitoring includes the parameters such as FBS, PBBS, HbA1C. Currently the vaccutainers or collection tubes for FBS, PBBS, RBS contains Grey capped sodium Fluoride, which inhibits glycolysis there by preventing glucose from utilization on long standing, and HbA1C is being collected in EDTA containing vacutainer with purple cap. Very few studies have done a comparison of HbA1C values by High performance liquid chromatography method using the sample collected in fluoride Grey cap and EDTA purple cap vaccutainers. The Study aims to compare locally made vaccutainers for the analysis of HbA1C. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected in EDTA and Sodium fluoride vacutainers were analyzed in D10 HPLC auto analyzer. Results: There was no significant variation in HbA1C levels by using both EDTA and Sodium Fluoride vacutainers in study group with low, normal & high levels of HbA1C in all study group participants by using same Sodium Fluoride vacutainer. So same vacutainer can be used for both blood Sugar & HbA1C estimations, to decrease the cost burden, turnaround time, manpower, and sample quantity to patient. Conclusions: HbA1C assay is regularly done by using EDTA vacutainer as per manufacturer's recommendations. Present study proved that Glycated HbA1c assay can also be done by using Sodium fluoride vacutainer, which is used for estimation of FBS, PLBS & RBS, so, a single vacutainer can be used for both Blood Sugar and HbA1C estimations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown Stem Rot (BSR), caused by the soil borne fungal pathogen Phialophora gregata, can reduce soybean yields by as much as 38%. Previous allelism studies identified three Resistant to brown stem Rot genes (Rbs1, Rbs2, and Rbs3), all mapping to large, overlapping regions on soybean chromosome 16. However, recent fine-mapping and genome wide association studies (GWAS) suggest Rbs1, Rbs2, and Rbs3 are alleles of a single Rbs locus. To address this conflict, we characterized the Rbs locus using the Williams82 reference genome (Wm82.a4.v1). We identified 120 Receptor-Like Proteins (RLPs), with hallmarks of disease resistance receptor-like proteins (RLPs), which formed five distinct clusters. We developed virus induced gene silencing (VIGS) constructs to target each of the clusters, hypothesizing that silencing the correct RLP cluster would result in a loss of resistance phenotype. The VIGS constructs were tested against P. gregata resistant genotypes L78-4094 (Rbs1), PI 437833 (Rbs2), or PI 437970 (Rbs3), infected with P. gregata or mock infected. No loss of resistance phenotype was observed. We then developed VIGS constructs targeting two RLP clusters with a single construct. Construct B1a/B2 silenced P. gregata resistance in L78-4094, confirming at least two genes confer Rbs1-mediated resistance to P. gregata. Failure of B1a/B2 to silence resistance in PI 437833 and PI 437970 suggests additional genes confer BSR resistance in these lines. To identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) responding to silencing, we conducted RNA-seq of leaf, stem and root samples from B1a/B2 and empty vector control plants infected with P. gregata or mock infected. B1a/B2 silencing induced DEGs associated with cell wall biogenesis, lipid oxidation, the unfolded protein response and iron homeostasis and repressed numerous DEGs involved in defense and defense signaling. These findings will improve integration of Rbs resistance into elite germplasm and provide novel insights into fungal disease resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the possibility of preparing silver nanostructures with a high area density of nanoparticles of various shapes by the ion beam sputtering (IBS) method, using a glancing angle deposition (GLAD) configuration, and subsequent irradiation with heavy ions, was tested. In the experiment, keV Ar+ ions were used for both IBS and bombardment. The prepared nanostructures were analyzed by RBS and microscopic methods of SEM and AFM. It turned out that IBS/GLAD makes it possible to create silver nanostructures (networks of individual silver nanoparticles), but only with relatively low areal densities (∼ 70 µm2). The bombardment led to changes in the porosity only after high ion fluences, but also to disruption of the nanostructures. Even so, the IBS method with GLAD configuration has been shown to be a promising way to prepare high-porosity nanostructures. Nevertheless, further experimental efforts will be needed to find the optimal technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economics and safety of reactors can be affected by the diffusion of fission products into graphite. Xenon (Xe) fission products diffusing into graphite is the most critical neutron absorber and poison that can slow down or stop the chain reaction. The transport parameters for inhibiting the xenon diffusion in graphite are therefore an important scientific problem. Self-sintered nanopore-isotropic (~40 nm) graphite (SSNG) derived from green pitch coke can decrease Xe diffusion into graphite. In this study, the surface morphology and microstructural evolution in graphite before and after irradiation, as well as after annealing, were studied with different characterization methods. A method for the measurement of diffusion coefficients of fission products' diffusion in graphite using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) was also reported. The SSNG substrates were implanted with Xe at a dose of 4.8 × 1015 ions/cm2 and energy of 7 MeV. The RT-implanted samples were annealed in a vacuum at 650 °C for 9 h. The implanted and annealed samples were characterized using RBS. The diffusion coefficient D (Xe, 650 °C) was 6.49 × 10−20 m2/s. The results indicate SSNG's excellent ability to inhibit Xe diffusion and are significant for designing and evaluating the safety of nuclear reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To study the glycemic control by estimating HbA1c levels among previously non-diabetic individuals aged above 40 years, who recovered from coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infection. Materials and Methods: This is an analytical cross-sectional study of people affected with Covid-19 infection, who were home-isolated, hospitalized, and discharged. The simple random sampling technique was used for the study group. Tirupati City, Andhra Pradesh State, India. We assessed socio-demographic profiles, hba1c levels, RBS, and severity of infection. The obtained laboratory reports were analyzed by using means and proportions after entering data in MS Excel and converted to SPSS software new version. Results: The study participants comprised mostly middle age group males and females (mostly 40–60 years, with 60% of them being females). Most of the study subjects were healthy, and 58% of them have normal hba1c levels. 32% of them are in border line diabetic. The prevalence of diabetes post Covid-19 infection is 10%. The majority of participants have normal random blood sugar levels (around 92%), and very less individuals have abnormal random blood sugar levels (2% of the subjects). There is no significant association between hypertension and raised blood sugar levels post Covid-19 infection. Conclusions: Based on the study, Covid-19 infection has an impact on blood sugar levels and altered glycemic control, switching a few individuals into diabetic and a significant number of individuals into the pre-diabetic state, who are non-diabetic individuals before Covid-19 infection.

Brown Stem Rot (BSR), caused by the soil borne fungal pathogen Phialophora gregata, can reduce soybean yields by as much as 38%. Previous allelism studies identified three Resistant to brown stem Rot genes (Rbs1, Rbs2, and Rbs3), all mapping to large, overlapping regions on soybean chromosome 16. However, recent fine-mapping and genome wide association studies (GWAS) suggest Rbs1, Rbs2, and Rbs3 are alleles of a single Rbs locus. To address this conflict, we characterized the Rbs locus using the Williams82 reference genome (Wm82.a4.v1). We identified 120 Receptor-Like Proteins (RLPs), with hallmarks of disease resistance receptor-like proteins (RLPs), which formed five distinct clusters. We developed virus induced gene silencing (VIGS) constructs to target each of the clusters, hypothesizing that silencing the correct RLP cluster would result in a loss of resistance phenotype. The VIGS constructs were tested against P. gregata resistant genotypes L78-4094 (Rbs1), PI 437833 (Rbs2), or PI 437970 (Rbs3), infected with P. gregata or mock infected. No loss of resistance phenotype was observed. We then developed VIGS constructs targeting two RLP clusters with a single construct. Construct B1a/B2 silenced P. gregata resistance in L78-4094, confirming at least two genes confer Rbs1-mediated resistance to P. gregata. Failure of B1a/B2 to silence resistance in PI 437833 and PI 437970 suggests additional genes confer BSR resistance in these lines. To identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) responding to silencing, we conducted RNA-seq of leaf, stem and root samples from B1a/B2 and empty vector control plants infected with P. gregata or mock infected. B1a/B2 silencing induced DEGs associated with cell wall biogenesis, lipid oxidation, the unfolded protein response and iron homeostasis and repressed numerous DEGs involved in defense and defense signaling. These findings will improve integration of Rbs resistance into elite germplasm and provide novel insights into fungal disease resistance.

Objectives: To study the glycemic control by estimating HbA1c levels among previously non-diabetic individuals aged above 40 years, who recovered from coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infection. Materials and Methods: This is an analytical cross-sectional study of people affected with Covid-19 infection, who were home-isolated, hospitalized, and discharged. The simple random sampling technique was used for the study group. Tirupati City, Andhra Pradesh State, India. We assessed socio-demographic profiles, hba1c levels, RBS, and severity of infection. The obtained laboratory reports were analyzed by using means and proportions after entering data in MS Excel and converted to SPSS software new version. Results: The study participants comprised mostly middle age group males and females (mostly 40–60 years, with 60% of them being females). Most of the study subjects were healthy, and 58% of them have normal hba1c levels. 32% of them are in border line diabetic. The prevalence of diabetes post Covid-19 infection is 10%. The majority of participants have normal random blood sugar levels (around 92%), and very less individuals have abnormal random blood sugar levels (2% of the subjects). There is no significant association between hypertension and raised blood sugar levels post Covid-19 infection. Conclusions: Based on the study, Covid-19 infection has an impact on blood sugar levels and altered glycemic control, switching a few individuals into diabetic and a significant number of individuals into the pre-diabetic state, who are non-diabetic individuals before Covid-19 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the absolute differential cross section for proton elastic scattering on aluminum in the energy range of 0.8 MeV to 2.1 MeV. In the literature we have found previously published data that follow similar trends but are not consistent with one another. The present measurements also fall within that range, moreover, covering angular regions where there were no reported data, improving databases such as IBANDL. Different methods for the optical model calculations are shown where angular distributions at backward angles are in good agreement, allowing one to fix the optical potential parameters. The calculation results, as well as their data fit, differ significantly as one would expect for the energy range covered in this work, where the nuclear part of the interaction contribution is almost zero. Our data, as well as previous reports, suggest an increase with higher energies for the value of the elastic cross section at backward angles. Further work is required from both experimental and theoretical fronts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SiOx films, frequently derived from amino silane precursors, have found several applications with high added value. Although frequently used, the deposition of coatings from Tris(dimethyl amino) silane (TDMAS) has been reported to demand considerable amounts of energy, mainly due to the difficulty of oxidizing such compounds. As is well known, Plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) is able to improve the oxidation efficiency, even under low processing temperatures. Owing to this, PEALD can be considered a very promising technique for the deposition of SiOx coatings. In this work, the deposition of silicon oxide films using TDMAS at 150 °C has been investigated. The effect of the plasma oxidation time (6 to 18 s) and atmosphere composition (pure O2 or O2 + Ar) on the chemical structure, elemental composition, and chemical bonding state of the films has also been evaluated. Increasing the plasma oxidation time in pure O2 resulted in a larger proportion of retained C (Si-CH3), whereas N was preserved in the structure (Si-N). On the other hand, the formation of SiOx films from TDMAS is favored in shorter oxidation times and O2 + Ar plasmas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS COV-2, the etiology of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, is a positive single-stranded RNA virus which was first identified in the city of Wuhan in 2019. Since its first discovery, several variants of the virus have been reported around the world. Identifying the emerged SARS-CoV-2 variants overtime is important since this could alter the pathogenicity and transmissibility of the virus as well as the efficacy of the vaccine. Here, 34 genome sequence of SARS COV-2 samples, which were collected between Feb. 2021 to Dec. 2021 in Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRG), were compared and analyzed in the spike (S) protein region. The nucleotide sequences were collected from the GISAID database (https://gisaid.org/), and the SARS-COV-2 variants were determined based on the mutations that they carry. Additionally, the frequency of each mutation was determined in the S protein region of the isolates. Overall, 29 mutations were detected in the sequence samples; the majority (44.8%) were located in the Nterminal domain (NTD) of the protein, whereas only 10.3% located in the ribosomal binding domain (RBD). D614G was found in all sequenced strains, followed by 67.6% mutation of P681H. Moreover, seven deletions were found in the NTD of the S protein, with 61.8% of the deletions was occurred at the position Y144. Alpha variants (B.1.1.7) were found to be dominant lineage during the period of this study, accounted for 65% of the sequence samples. Overall, our data support the speedy increase of the SARSCOV-2 genome diversity. Based on our knowledge, this is the first mega sequence analyses of different SARS-COV-2 strains from KRG of Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCD) kill 41 million people each year which accounts to 74% of all deaths globally. India ranks second with a diabetes population of 69.2 million and may rise to 123.5 million by 2040. Early detection of diabetes risk through periodic screening could be instrumental in controlling diabetes. Objectives: 1. To estimate the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus among adults attending tertiary care hospital. 2. To assess correlation between INDIAN DIABETIC RISK SCORE(IDRS) and Random Capillary Blood Sugar (RBS). 1. To assess association between selected risk factors and risk of developing diabetes mellitus. Methodology: This study was done among 270 individuals aged 18 years and above attending NCD OPD in Madurai medical college, Tamil Nadu during November 2023. The sample size was calculated based on 40% global prevalence of moderate to high diabetic risk by Sarah Wild et al. Consecutive sampling was done. After obtaining informed consent, data was collected using semi structured questionnaire containing sociodemographic details, risk factors, and IDRS. Anthropometric measurements and RBS were done. The study excluded all known cases of Diabetes. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 42.25 years (SD 4.70). Majority (83.3%) were females. IDRS categorization showed 18.2%, 56.6% and 25.2% in the low, moderate and high-risk groups respectively. The study indicates moderate correlation (r=0.435) of IDRS and RBS values. Also, significant correlation (r=0.543) of IDRS with RBS in 18-30 age group. Age, waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the high-risk group. Conclusion: Screening of young adults by simple cost-effective tools like IDRS helps in further evaluation by blood investigations for early detection of diabetes, thereby preventing or delaying complications.

The presence of radiation-induced defects and the high temperature of implantation are breeding grounds for helium (He) to accumulate and form He-induced defects (bubbles, blisters, craters, and cavities) in silicon carbide (SiC). In this work, the influence of He-induced defects on the migration of strontium (Sr) implanted into SiC was investigated. Sr-ions of 360 keV were implanted into polycrystalline SiC to a fluence of 2 × 1016 Sr-ions/cm2 at 600°C (Sr-SiC). Some of the Sr-SiC samples were then co-implanted with He-ions of 21.5 keV to a fluence of 1 × 1017 He-ions/cm2 at 350°C (Sr + He-SiC). The Sr-SiC and Sr + He-SiC samples were annealed for 5 h at 1,000°C. The as-implanted and annealed samples were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Rutherford backscattered spectrometry (RBS). Implantation of Sr retained some defects in SiC, while co-implantation of He resulted in the formation of He-bubbles, blisters, and craters (exfoliated blisters). Blisters close to the critical height and size were the first to exfoliate after annealing. He-bubbles grew larger after annealing owing to the capture of more vacancies. In the co-implanted samples, Sr was located in three regions: the crystalline region (near the surface), the bubble region (where the projected range of Sr was located), and the damage region toward the bulk. Annealing the Sr + He-SiC caused the migration of Sr towards the bulk, while no migration was observed in the Sr-SiC samples. The migration was governed by “vacancy migration driven by strain fileds.”

Background: The impact of HIV on glucose and magnesium levels in HIV-affected patients in the early stages of the disease have received less attention. Because to the lack of research into the potential negative effects of these factors, we aimed to analyze the sex and age differences in the Random Blood Glucose (RBS) and magnesium levels of patients with HIV disease. Methods and components: Fifty human volunteers without HIV were included as a comparison group. Fifty people living with HIV who were all undergoing treatment made up the HIV group. The HIV infection was identified using criteria established by the National AIDS control program. The HIV diagnosis for the study group was performed by medical department consultants. Results: Finding no significant difference in age characteristics between HIV and control group patients but finding a significant difference in RBS and magnesium mean values. When we compared HIV patients to healthy controls, we observed that the HIV patients' RBS levels were almost 40% higher. Conclusion: Since magnesium insufficiency was found to promote hyperglycemia in HIV patients, it may be wise to routinely monitor magnesium levels in this population. As for the link between magnesium and HIV, additional study is required to fully grasp it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we use a two-step cyclic electrochemical process to insert Au into polyaniline (PANI). It was suggested previously that this method would lead to the formation of atomic Au clusters with controlleds number of Au atoms without providing morphological proof. In each cycle, tetrachloroaurate anions (AuCl4−) are attached on the protonated imine sites of PANI, followed by a controlled reduction using cyclic voltammetry (CV). In contrast to previous work, we demonstrate that the reduction leads to the nucleation and growth of an Au nanoparticle (NP) whose density and size dispersion depend on the Au loading in PANI. Adding more deposition cycles increases the Au NP density and size. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and corresponding energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) indicate a homogeneous distribution of Au elements in the PANI matrix before CV reduction, while Au elements are aggregated and clearly localized in the NPs positions after CV reduction. We further use Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) to quantify the Au uptake in PANI. The Au distribution is verified to be initially homogeneous across the PANI layer whereas the increasing number of deposition cycles leads to a surface segregation of Au. We propose a two-step growth model based on our experimental results. Finally, we discuss the results with respect to the formation of atomic Au clusters reported previously using the same deposition method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we focused on ion beam modification and doping of graphene oxide (GO), polylactic acid (PLLA) and polyimide (PI) by low-energy Cu ions for a study of catalytic, sensory and electrical properties. We implanted the GO and polymer samples with 20 keV Cu ions with three implantation fluences from 3.75 × 1012 cm−2 to 1.0 × 1016 cm−2. As follows, the elemental composition and structural changes were studied using Raman spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Rutherford Back-scattering Spectroscopy (RBS) and Elastic Recoil Detection Analysis (ERDA). The surface morphology was analysed using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The electrical properties of prepared structures were characterized by 2-point sheet resistivity measurement and the sensory properties were analysed in an atmospheric chamber and compared with BME280 combined humidity/temperature/pressure sensor. The photo-catalytic properties were studied by Rhodamine-B disintegration under UV light. Ion beam implantation has been applied successfully to the functionalization of used samples. The electrical conductivity increased with increasing Cu ion fluence. The GO and PI demonstrated effective sensory and photo-catalytic performance and the best result was achieved for Cu ion fluence of 3.75 × 1012 cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deposition technique and associated deposition parameters play significant roles in determining the stoichiometry of thin films, and consequently, their properties. Herein, Cu-S thin films were deposited on a sodalime glass substrate via metal organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) at temperatures between 350 and 450°C using a single solid source precursor. The deposited Cu-S films were characterized using Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–visible spectrophotometry, and four-point probe technique. RBS characterization revealed that the films are non-stoichiometry while thickness increased from 480 to 655 nm as deposition temperature increased. SEM revealed micrographs that are temperature-dependent. A direct band gap value between 2.75 and 3.80 eV was obtained as the deposition temperature increased. Electrical characterization showed ohmic characteristics in which, resistivity decreased from 18.50 × 10−3 Ωcm to 8.20 × 10−3 Ωcm as deposition temperature increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For public health interventions to be effective, they need to be supported or at least accepted by those affected, and social policy should therefore be understood as political and strategic. This raises questions about the relationship between the analytical, the political and the personal in policy processes. This article offers an in-depth analysis of such issues, as they were enacted during interviews with Swedish alcohol policy stakeholders. It focuses on the assumptions and a priori 'truths' articulated in interviews about Responsible Beverage Services (RBS) at Swedish football stadiums or 'Football Without Bingeing'. We argue that the participants combined different narrative forms, such as seemingly objective chronological accounts and personal ethical judgments, in talking about the policy initiative. Through such narrative intersections, three key 'truths' were produced that reinforced the link between alcohol and violence, necessitated blanket population-level measures to reduce alcohol use and made gendered behavior an irrelevant policy target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion beam analysis (IBA) methods refer to a set of analytical techniques based on the interactions of energetic ions, produced by a particle accelerator, with matter. The result of such interactions is the emission of characteristic radiation, X and gamma rays, and charged particles, which, upon detection, provide valuable information on the absolute concentration and depth distribution of the elements in the bombarded material. Moreover, IBA techniques can be performed while maintaining the object to be investigated at atmospheric pressure, without placing it in vacuum, in an analysis chamber, with the impinging ion beam extracted from the in-vacuum beamline of the accelerator, avoiding the need of invasive sampling and greatly easing the object positioning, thus allowing precious and big or large artefacts to be studied. This feature has opened the way for applications of IBA techniques for compositional analysis in cultural heritage studies, providing detailed and complete information about elemental compositions and depth distributions of analysed materials that are otherwise difficult or impossible for other analytical techniques. In this paper, the basic principles of the main IBA techniques applied to cultural heritage, namely, particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE), particle induced Gamma-ray emission (PIGE), and Rutherford or elastic backscattering spectrometry (RBS/EBS), will be recalled, and specific and practical details on how these techniques can be used for analysing cultural heritage objects with external beam set-ups will be provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have sputter-deposited stacks of ultrathin layers from EUROFER97 and tungsten on silicon substrates. Ion beam analysis techniques are used for composition characterisation and microscopy methods are employed for structural examination. The films are subsequently studied by time-of-flight low-energy ion scattering (ToF-LEIS) for primary 10 keV He ^+ and 8 keV D ^+ ions to demonstrate an approach of providing accurate and precise experimental reference electronic stopping cross-sections for fusion-relevant steels. The energy-converted ToF-LEIS spectra are compared to Monte-Carlo simulations for quantitative analysis explicitly considering the influence of plural and multiple scattering. We discuss the deduced stopping cross-sections of EUROFER97 in comparison to predictions by SRIM using Bragg’s rule of stopping power additivity.

After the emergency approval of different COVID-19 vaccines the administration of millions of doses, many concerns arise for adverse effects, especially in vulnerable groups such as diabetics. In this study, we investigate what effects different COVID vaccines could have on several biomarkers in diabetic patients and whether that raises a concern for this group or not. Materials and methods: this study includes two groups of diabetics each group consists of 20 participants ; One of the groups under study, where they received the COVID-19 vaccine either AstraZeneca or Pifizr-BioNTech vaccine and the other groups were controlled or the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the other group-the control group- did not take any vaccine. Blood samples were taken from both groups about a week after the first dose and statistical studies were conducted on the results. Results: Noticed an increase in all biomarkers. Increase in RBS could simply be due to immune response, same thing could be said for the CRP increase. Ferritin increase was not important; it was only apparent in three patients and that could be due to active infection. The increase in D-dimer levels was apparent in all patients and that raises the biggest concern. Conclusion: the biggest issue was seen in the rising of D-dimer levels because it raises concern about clotting disorders and heart disease which is already a concern for diabetic patients. Further investigation should be done and careful monitoring for clotting risks is necessary after the vaccine.

Reduced web section (RWS) connections can prevent lateral-torsional buckling and web local buckling experienced by reduced beam section (RBS) connections. In RWS connections, removing a large portion of web can result in shear demand intolerance induced to plastic hinge region. The present study aims to resolve the problems of RBS and RWS connections by proposing two new connections: (1) RBS with stiffener (RBS-ST) and (2) RBS with reduced web (RW-RBS) connections. In the first connection (RBS-ST), a series of stiffeners is connected to the beam in the reduced flange region, while the second connection (RW-RBS) considers both a reduction in flanges and a reduction in web. Five beam-to-column joints with three different connections, including RBS, RBS-ST, and RW-RBS connections were considered and simulated in ABAQUS. According to the results, RBS-ST and RW-RBS connections can decrease or even eliminate lateral-torsional buckling and web local buckling in RBS connection. It is important to note that RW-RBS connection is more effective in long beams with smaller shear demands in the plastic hinge region. Moreover, results showed that RBS and RW-RBS connections experienced strength degradation at 4% to 5% drift, while no strength degradation was observed in RBS-ST connection until 8% drift. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pure molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) solid lubricant coatings could attain densities comparable to doped films (and the associated benefits to wear rate and environmental stability) through manipulation of the microstructure via deposition parameters. Unfortunately, pure films can exhibit highly variable microstructures and mechanical properties due to processes that are not controlled during deposition (i.e., batch-to-batch variation). This work focuses on developing a relationship between density, hardness, friction, and wear for pure sputtered MoS2 coatings. Results show that dense films (ρ = 4.5 g/cm3) exhibit a 100 × lower wear rate compared to porous coatings (ρ = 3.04–3.55 g/cm3). The tribological performance of high density pure MoS2 coatings is shown to surpass that of established composite coatings, achieving a wear rate 2 × (k = 5.74 × 10–8 mm3/Nm) lower than composite MoS2/Sb2O3/Au in inert environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experimental electronic stopping cross-section of EUROFER97 for slow protons, deuterons and helium ions is deduced from backscattering experiments from ultrathin film stacks redeposited by magnetron sputtering from bulk EUROFER97 and tungsten on silicon substrates as well as bulk EUROFER97 using Time-of-Flight Low-Energy Ion Scattering (ToF-LEIS). Two different experimental approaches were employed. In absolute measurements, the energy of ions backscattered from the W layer in spectra recorded for the ultrathin film stacks was compared to the signal from bulk W under the same experimental conditions. In relative measurements, the intensity of the spectra from bulk EUROFER97 and a Cu reference sample using the same experimental conditions were compared. In both approaches, the energy-converted spectra were compared to Monte-Carlo simulations for quantitative analysis and to account for the contributions of multiple and plural scattering. The deduced electronic stopping cross-sections of EUROFER97 are compared to predictions by SRIM using Bragg's rule of stopping power additivity and recently combined RT-TDDFT and MD simulations for protons in bulk Fe in the off-channeling geometry. The differences between the results from the two approaches are discussed. • Electronic stopping cross-section of EUROFER97 for slow light ions is determined. • Time-of-flight low-energy ion scattering experiments were conducted. • Bulk EUROFER97 and Cu were employed in the relative measurements. • Ultrathin films of redeposited EUROFER97 and W on Si were used in the absolute measurements. • Monte-Carlo simulations were performed using the TRBS code. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying without sampling the fine layering of heritage objects, usually heterogeneous in composition and with an uneven surface requires new methodologies. Single spot analyses are not representative and may lead to misinterpretation; thus, they are not sufficient to conclude on the layering. 2D-imaging is essential to analyze a bigger area to recover the characteristics of heritage objects. However, processing 2D-RBS images pixel per pixel requires a long computing time. To automate the processing of 2D-IBA images at New AGLAE, the use of artificial intelligence enables the consideration of all the spectra from the different detectors and across the entire area simultaneously. Unsupervised learning algorithms for clustering bring together the pixels with similar characteristics, effectively capturing the essential features of the 2D-images. The signal corresponding to each cluster can then be processed to obtain both the chemical composition and layer thicknesses of the analyzed areas. Thus, a spatial distribution of the stratigraphy is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PIXE and EBS were used simultaneously to characterize paint layers containing pigments of controlled grain size. The experiments were carried out using the external 3 MeV proton beam from the NewAGLAE facility. The paint layers consisted of lead silicate pigments mixed in linseed oil. The pigments were characterized by XRD and SEM prior to IBA measurements. Irregularly shaped grains ranging from 13 to 64 µm were observed. The PIXE spectra were fitted by TRAUPIXE and the EBS spectra were simulated with STRUCTNRA using simplified models of the paint structure assuming non-overlapping spherical pigment particles in oil. For each simulation, the particle size was used as provided by the SEM observations. The density of each paint layer was calculated according to the pigment composition determined by PIXE. For the linseed oil matrix, the oxygen content was fitted at about two times higher than in linseed oil, which is qualitatively consistent with the oxygen uptake during the drying process. The pigment volume fraction and the stick-out fraction were adjusted to fit the experimental spectra. A reasonable agreement between experimental and simulated spectra was achieved. This demonstrates that the simulation and quantitative understanding of EBS spectra from paintings requires the microstructure of the paint layer to be taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platinum nanostructures (PtNSs) are versatile in catalysis, biotech, nanomedicine, and pharmacology. Their large surface area and self-humidifying properties benefit energy and the environment. This study investigates PtNSs synthesis and morphological changes on a ∼ 3 nm Pt film under 20 keV Ne+ ion irradiation (5 × 1014 to 5 × 1016 ions/cm2). Higher fluences (1 × 1015 ions/cm2) produce plateau-like structures, while additional irradiation (1 × 1016 ions/cm2) leads to fractal structures with increased roughness. Surface sputtering and agglomeration induced by ion irradiation drive the transformation from Pt nanoparticles to plateau to fractal structures. Understanding these relationships enhances PtNSs synthesis and paves the way for diverse applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present two experiments where a layer is plasma-etched while monitoring its evolution by in plasma ion beam analysis. First, we etch a photoresist with a diffuse O 2 plasma at low pressure. Using a 4.335 MeV He beam, Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry and Elastic Recoil Detection spectra are acquired every minute during 8 h. Etching of most elements follows a linear trend, but H desorbs faster at the beginning of the plasma process, which we ascribe to the ion beam-induced desorption. In addition, we observe a thin Mo layer building up at the surface, likely due to the sputtering of an electrode in the plasma source. Secondly, we etch in HF a crystalline Si (c-Si) sample with < 100 > surface orientation, which should leave 14 H/nm 2 bonded to the c-Si surface. The sample is then introduced in the chamber and exposed to a diffuse Ar plasma at low pressure. During plasma processing, the H surface concentration is monitored using a resonant nuclear reaction with a 15N beam at 6.385 MeV. The initial H concentration is 11. 7 ± 1. 1 H/nm 2 , and it decreases over a 3-minute timescale to an equilibrium concentration of 6. 0 ± 0. 8 H/nm 2. Over the range of experimental conditions investigated, the diffuse Ar plasma is therefore not able to entirely sputter the H from the c-Si surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve our ability to perform ion-beam analyses (IBA), we installed a new 1-MV 3SDH-2 tandem Pelletron accelerator at Tohoku University. It has two beam lines: a 15° line for heavy-ion-beam irradiation experiments and a 45° line for IBA experiments. For multimodal IBA experiments, we installed a newly designed and developed target chamber on the 45° beamline. We have since carried out a variety of fundamental and applied research projects using this facility. Here, we provide an overview of the facility, the target chamber developed for IBA, and some examples that involve the use of Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, elastic-recoil detection analyses, particle-induced X-ray emission, and nuclear-reaction analysis techniques for specimens from different research fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]