Optimal design of variables switch-based sampling scheme for verifying Weibull distributed product lifetimes.

Ensuring products maintain their normal function during the warranty period is essential for companies to control warranty costs and sustain their brand reputation. A variables acceptance sampling (VAS) plan based on the lifetime performance index (LPI) is a practical technology for verifying product lifetimes because it can provide the number of failures required for life testing and the acceptance criterion for lot disposition. Recently, an LPI-based variables quick-switch sampling (VQSS) system has been developed to improve the sampling efficiency.

Preparation and Hydrogen Production Application of Core-Shell Heterojunction Photocatalyst (PbS/ZnO)@CuS.

This study employed a hydrothermal method to coat CuS onto PbS quantum dots loaded with ZnO, resulting in a core-shell-structured (PbS/ZnO)@CuS hetero-structured photocatalyst. The sulfide coating enhanced the photocatalyst's absorption in the near-infrared to visible light range and effectively reduced electron-hole (h) pair recombination during photocatalytic processes. Electron microscopy analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of this core-shell structure using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP); however, the spatial hindrance effect of PVP led to a disordered arrangement of the CuS lattice, facilitating electron-hole recombination.

Mercury pollution control and Marphysa sanguinea bio-response in active-capped sediment with calcium alginate/activated carbon composite.

Anthropogenic and industrial activities have released large amounts of mercury (Hg) into the hydrosphere. Hg ultimately deposits in sediments and could be re-released into the water environment, threatening the ecological system. Active capping is considered a suitable remediation method due to its relatively low cost and in-situ decontamination feasibility.

Biodegradable composite films of barley fibers for food packaging applications: A review.

The conventional food packaging is creating a significant cause of environmental hazards, posing challenges in disposal and recycling. Lignocellulose fibers possess remarkable biodegradable properties and can be modified or blended with other polymers. Thus, using lignocellulose biocomposite films derived from barley, a renewable source can mitigate and potentially transform into sustainable, innovative packaging material in the food sectors.

Modulating electronic properties in hydrogenated silicon nanotubes.

This study employs first-principles calculations to investigate the geometric and electronic properties of hydrogenated silicon nanotubes (SiNTs). SiNTs, particularly in their gear-like configuration, demonstrate unique semiconducting behavior; however, their relatively small intrinsic band gaps limit their applicability in fields requiring moderate band gaps. Significant changes in electronic properties are observed by hydrogenating SiNTs at various levels of adsorption-either full or partial-and different surface configurations (exterior, interior, or dual-sided).

Multi-Objective Optimization Accelerates the De Novo Design of Antimicrobial Peptide for .

Humans have long used antibiotics to fight bacteria, but increasing drug resistance has reduced their effectiveness. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising alternative with natural broad-spectrum activity against bacteria and viruses. However, their instability and hemolysis limit their medical use, making the design and improvement of AMPs a key research focus.

The Development of a System for Elbow Joint Range of Motion Measurement Based on Image Recognition and Myoelectric Signals.

After a fracture, patients have reduced willingness to bend and extend their elbow joint due to pain, resulting in muscle atrophy, contracture, and stiffness around the elbow. Moreover, this may lead to progressive atrophy of the muscles around the elbow, resulting in permanent functional loss. Currently, a goniometer is used to measure the range of motion, ROM, to evaluate the recovery of the affected limb.

Antihypertensive Effects of a Sodium Thiosulfate-Loaded Nanoparticle in a Juvenile Chronic Kidney Disease Rat Model.

Sodium thiosulfate (STS), a precursor of hydrogen sulfide (HS), has demonstrated antihypertensive properties. Previous studies have suggested that HS-based interventions can prevent hypertension in pediatric chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the clinical application of STS is limited by its rapid release and intravenous administration.

Protective Effect of Resveratrol on Kidney Disease and Hypertension Against Microplastics Exposure in Male Juvenile Rats.

Global pollution stems from the degradation of plastic waste, leading to the generation of microplastics (MPs). While environmental pollutants increase the risk of developing hypertension and kidney disease, the effects of MP exposure on these conditions in children remain unclear. Resveratrol, a phenolic compound known for its antihypertensive and renoprotective properties, has gained attention as a potential nutraceutical.

Salinity stress impairs disease resistance in white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei through AMPK pathway, ameliorated by dietary glucose-mediated energy homeostasis.

This study presents a comprehensive examination of the physiological adaptations of white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) to low-salinity conditions and evaluates the effects of supplementing dietary glucose on disease resistance. Compared to the control group, shrimp cultured at a salinity of 4 psu exhibit significantly elevated expression levels of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the hepatopancreas, which leads to increased energy expenditure and a corresponding reduction in resistance to infection by Vibrio alginolyticus. The suppression of AMPK via dsAMPK treatment markedly enhances disease resistance.

Comparative studies on modeling and optimization of fermentation process conditions for fungal asparaginase production using artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques.

The L-asparaginase is commercial enzyme used as chemotherapeutic agent in cancer treatment and food processing agent in backed and fried food industries. In the present research work, the artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques were employed for modeling and optimization of fermentation process conditions for enhanced production of L-asparaginase by submerged fermentation of . The experimental L-asparaginase activity obtained using central composite experiment design was used for optimization.

H NMR-based metabolomic analysis of hypersalinity-induced oviparity in brine shrimp.

This study investigated the mechanisms by which high salinity conditions stimulate adult Artemia females to produce diapaused cysts. We used a H NMR-based metabolomic approach to elucidate the metabolic regulation between ovoviviparity and oviparity in Artemia exposed to different salinities. At a salinity of 80 ppt, 100 % of females produced diapaused cysts, compared to 20 % at 50 ppt.

Ultrasonication-assisted lipase-catalyzed esterification of chlorogenic acid: A comparative study using fatty alcohol and acids in solvent and solvent-free conditions.

Chlorogenic acid, a well-known antioxidant, has potential applications in health care, food, and cosmetic sectors. However, its low solubility hinders its application at the industrial scale. The primary goal of the present study was to increase the lipophilic property of chlorogenic acid through esterification using an ultrasonication approach and Novozym® 435 as the catalyst.

Aromatic compounds and organic acids identified from Ganoderma formosanum exhibit synergistic anti-melanogenic effects.

This study reveals the anti-tyrosinase activity of Ganoderma formosanum extracts, pinpointing compounds including gluconic acid, mesalamine, L-pyroglutamic acid, esculetin, 5-hydroxyindole, and salicylic acid, as effective melanin production inhibitors in melanoma cells and zebrafish embryos. Furthermore, multiple molecular docking simulations provided insights into interactions between the identified compounds and tyrosinase, increasing binding affinity up to -16.36 kcal/mol.

Preliminary insights into the photosensensitivity of bio-based plastics: Release of microplastic-derived organic matter in water under UV irradiation.

This is the first study to investigate the possible release of microplastic-derived dissolved organic matter (MP-DOM) in water from three major types of bio-based MPs, namely, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) and PLA-PHA mixtures, under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation conditions. At an initial MP concentration of approximately 5 g per liter, the release of MP-DOM from the studied MPs ranged from 1.55 to 6.

Trends in the incidence of the Epstein-Barr virus-associated malignancies extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Taiwan.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTL) are associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The current study aimed to evaluate the trends in the incidence of ENKTL and NPC in Taiwan within the last 15-30 years. To assess the incidence of ENKTL from 2008 to 2021 and NPC from 1995 to 2021, an epidemiological study was performed using population-based registry data from the Taiwan Cancer Registry.

Evaluating the feasibility of estimating particulate mass emissions of older-model diesel vehicle using smoke opacity measurements.

Real-world emissions of particulate matter (PM) and smoke opacity were studied for an older-model diesel pickup truck during four types of driving tests, namely fixed-point test, snap-acceleration test, road test, and hill road test (uphill/downhill). A portable emissions measurement system (PEMS) and an opacimeter were used to measure real-time concentrations of PM and smoke opacity, respectively, and simultaneously. Correlation analysis showed a significant positive association between PM and opacity, suggesting the feasibility of using an opacimeter to estimate PM mass emissions from diesel vehicles.

Sustainable development in Southeast Asia: The nexus of tourism, finance, and environment.

Southeast Asia's booming tourism and rapid economic growth create a unique setting to explore the interplay between economic development, tourism, and environmental sustainability. This study examines the complex interplay between tourism expansion, financial development, and environmental sustainability in Southeast Asia, specifically from 2000 to 2023. This research aims to fill gaps in previous studies, particularly within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) context, and to provide a comprehensive understanding of how tourism and financial growth impact environmental outcomes in this region.

Objective approach to diagnosing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by using pixel subtraction and machine learning classification of outpatient consultation videos.

Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder, affecting between 5% and 7% of school-age children. ADHD is typically characterized by persistent patterns of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity, and it is diagnosed on the basis of the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, through subjective observations and information provided by parents and teachers. Diagnosing ADHD in children is challenging, despite several assessment tools, such as the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham questionnaire, being widely available.

Influence of UV wavelength variations on tetracycline adsorption by polyethylene microplastics in aquatic environments.

The effect of ultraviolet (UV) light on structural changes is a significant concern, particularly regarding the weathering and aging effects on microplastics (MPs). This research focused on examining how various UV light wavelengths (UVC, UVB, and UVA) influence the adsorption behavior of aged polyethylene (PE) MPs toward tetracycline (TC). To explore the adsorption mechanism in detail, adsorption kinetics were studied under different UV light wavelengths.

Tetrahydrocurcumin alleviates di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced adipose tissue dysfunction and testicular toxicity in adult mice: possible involvement of adiponectin-adipoR signaling in the testis.

Widespread exposure to endocrine disruptors is associated with metabolic dysfunction and reproductive toxicity. Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) has attracted attention as it offers protection against obesity and metabolic disorders due to its potent antioxidative and diverse biological properties but its influence and underlying mechanism of action on adipose tissue function and DEHP-induced testicular injury remain unknown. Our results showed that THC (100 mg kg day) administration for 27 weeks enlarged adipocytes while attenuating macrophage infiltration and IL-6 expression in the adipose tissue of male C57BL/6J mice exposed to 5 mg kg day of DEHP.

Highly efficient visible-light-driven S-scheme graphene bridged MoS/CoO nanohybrid for the photocatalytic performance of hazardous dye and antibacterial activity.

A novel graphene-bridged MoS/CoO (MCG) nanohybrid was well fabricated by a hydrothermal route. The purpose of valuable and economical S-scheme systems with vigorous interface interactions is pressing to photocatalytic efficiency and efficient utilization. While mighty progress has been created with respect to charge carrier bridges, the charge transferring ability of the facility charge carrier bridges is far from capable owing to lower electrical conductivity.

A new species of Gosline, 1951 (Actinopterygii, Ophichthidae) from Taiwan.

A unique species of the flappy-snake eel genus, , is described based on a single specimen (270 mm in total length) collected from Dong-gang, southwestern Taiwan. The new species possesses several characters that are distinct from the only other species in the genus, . can be easily distinguished from by having two papillae inside of nasal tube (vs three in ), 25 branchiostegal rays (vs 29), the dorsal-fin origin positioned behind the tip of the pectoral fin (vs not behind, usually above mid-pectoral fin), and the absence of the maxillary teeth (vs present).