Sci

This study is motivated by the severe tribological regime of PA6 composites in VR platforms operating under dry or boundary lubrication, where alternating shear during foot rotation, localised contact pressures, and third-body abrasion concurrently challenge wear resistance and retention of strength. This paper presents the results of research into the properties of composites based on polyamide PA6 and molybdenum disulphide, obtained by combining the components through high-intensity mechanochemical activation in a planetary mill and classical mixing in a turbulence mixer. We demonstrate that varying the energy of the premixing stage (mechanochemical activation versus low-energy premixing) serves as an effective means of interfacial engineering in PA6/MoS₂ composites, enabling simultaneous enhancement of mechanical and tribological properties at low filler contents. Analysis of experimental composite samples using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicates the interaction between MoS₂ and oxygen-containing groups of polyamide while maintaining its overall chemical composition. According to the TG-DSC curves, modification of polyamide leads to an increase in the melting temperature by 2 °C, while mechanical activation ensures stronger interaction between the matrix and the filler. Compared to pure PA6, the tensile strength of composites increases by 10–20% for mechanoactivated materials and by 5–10% for materials obtained by conventional methods. The mechanical activation effect is observed even at minimal amounts (0.25 and 0.5%) of MoS₂ in composites. The toughness of all composites, regardless of the mixing method, increases by 5–7% compared to pure polyamide. All composites show a 10–20% reduction in the coefficient of friction on steel. Simultaneously, the water absorption of composites becomes 5–20% higher than that of the original material, which indicates a change in structure and an increase in porosity. The obtained composite materials are planned to be used for manufacturing platforms for the movement of virtual reality (VR) operators. Full article

Despite its economic profitability, fur farming in Europe, responsible for half of global production, faces a growing ethical backlash. Animal welfare concerns, particularly regarding mink, foxes, and raccoon dogs kept in restrictive cages, have intensified due to advocacy, scientific reviews, and COVID-19 outbreaks. In response, several EU nations have implemented bans or stricter regulations. However, limited research exists on EU public opinion. This study analyses data from Eurobarometer 533 (March 2023), surveying 26,368 citizens across 27 EU countries, to assess attitudes toward fur farming. Respondents selected from three policy preferences: a full ban, EU-wide regulation, or acceptance of current practices. Multinomial logistic regression and chi-square tests revealed significant socio-demographic and ideological influences. Older individuals were more supportive of current practices (p = 0.001), while higher education levels correlated with support for a ban or stricter regulation (p = 0.003). Income positively influenced support for regulation (p = 0.002), and women (p = 0.008), urban residents (p = 0.001), and those with regular animal contact (p = 0.007) were more likely to support reform. Right-leaning respondents (p = 0.012) and residents of countries without fur farming bans (p < 0.001) were less supportive. These findings suggest that values, demographics, and national legislation significantly shape public opinion. Aligning policy with evolving societal values requires integrated legislative reform, public engagement, and equitable transition strategies to ensure meaningful and sustainable improvements in animal welfare across the EU. Full article

Honeycomb graphene aerogels offer a combination of graphene wall qualities, such as mechanical strength and binding, and the unique, engineered architecture of honeycombs. The honeycomb structure opens new opportunities for property modification, such as reinforcement with metal nanoparticles, which can increase strength and electrochemical performance. This study uses molecular dynamics simulations to examine the reinforcement of graphene honeycomb aerogels containing 2.7% and 5.8% randomly distributed Ni or Al nanoparticles. Metal nanoparticles considerably increase the resistance to compression: stress increase occurred for aerogels with Al nanoparticles at a density of 1.3 g/cm³, while for aerogels and filled with Ni, stress increase occurred at 2.0 g/cm³. The strengthening mechanism is volume repulsion when Al NPs repel the graphene cell walls, while Ni nanoparticles easily spread along the cell walls and provide less compression resistance, analogous to pure graphene aerogels. The tensile properties remained unaffected by the presence of either nanoparticle type since the same deformation mechanism (cell collapse) occurred for all aerogels. The maximal ultimate tensile strength achieved was 160 GPa. Temperatures ranging from 300 to 3000 K slightly affected the strength of all aerogels. Full article

This paper presents the design of an autonomous robot guide for a museum-like environment in a motorcycle assembly plant. The system integrates Industry 4.0 technologies such as artificial vision, indoor positioning, generative artificial intelligence, and cloud connectivity to enhance the visitor experience. The development follows the Design Inclusive Research (DIR) methodology and the VDI 2206 standard to ensure a structured scientific and engineering process. A key innovation is the integration of mmWave sensors alongside LiDAR and RGB-D cameras, enabling reliable human detection and improved navigation safety in reflective indoor environments, as well as the deployment of an open-source large language model for natural, on-device interaction with visitors. The current results include the complete mechanical, electronic, and software architecture; simulation validation; and a preliminary implementation in the real museum environment, where the system demonstrated consistent autonomous navigation, stable performance, and effective user interaction. Full article

In this paper, the dependence of the microstructure and properties on Spark Plasma Sintering modes of an AlN-35 β-SiC (wt.%) composite is investigated. It was found that the use of a heating rate of 100 °C/min during the sintering process of the AlN-35 β-SiC (wt.%) composite leads to the formation of a solid solution (AlN)_x–(SiC)_x−1 at 1900 °C during 5 min, and under a pressure of 50 MPa. It was observed that, at a heating rate of 50 °C/min and a pressure of 25 MPa, yttrium oxide used as a sintering additive impedes the diffusion of SiC into AlN. This impedes the formation of a solid solution (AlN)_x–(SiC)_x−1 and helps preserve SiC grains, which act as the main absorbing phase in the obtained composites. It is shown that the use of sintering additives and SPS technology allows obtaining samples with a density of 3.26 g/cm³, which coincides with the theoretical value of the composite. The dielectric characteristics and absorbing properties of sintered materials are determined in the frequency bands from 5.6 to 26 GHz. It has been discovered that the reflection, transmission, and absorption coefficients can be regulated depending on the thickness of the sample. In addition, it is shown that composites containing solid solutions and silicon carbide grains in their structures have the best absorbing properties. On the other hand, the material containing only solid solutions is a promising material that can be used as microwave filters. Full article

This study presents an analytical and multiscale investigation of the degradation of elastic properties in ordinary Portland cement (OPC) paste subjected to calcium leaching. Eight representative microstructures and three homogenization schemes (Mori–Tanaka, Hashin–Shtrikman, and Voigt) were evaluated to determine the most suitable configuration for predicting stiffness evolution. Model validation against benchmark experimental data at 14 and 56 days demonstrated good agreement, with prediction errors within 10%. Simulation results reveal that progressive decalcification leads to significant reductions in both bulk and shear moduli, with the calcium hydroxide (CH) phase being the most sensitive, followed by low-density (LD) and high-density (HD) calcium silicate hydrate (CSH). The overall stiffness loss increases with the water-to-cement ratio ($w/c$), exceeding 90% at $w/c=0.5$ under complete decalcification. A sensitivity analysis further shows that the rate of modulus degradation decreases with increasing $w/c$, reflecting a mechanical normalization effect rather than improved chemical stability. These findings highlight the dominant role of calcium preservation in maintaining mechanical integrity and provide a robust theoretical framework for predicting the chemo-mechanical degradation and long-term durability of cement-based materials in aggressive environments. Full article

This paper introduces a novel stochastic optimization framework for the optimal sizing of thyristor-switched capacitors (TSCs) in medium-voltage distribution networks. Unlike conventional deterministic approaches, the proposed model explicitly incorporates load demand variability through multiple probabilistic scenarios, thereby enhancing the robustness and reliability of reactive power compensation. The methodology employs advanced nonlinear programming techniques, i.e., the IPOPT solver within a scenario-based framework, in order to determine the TSC sizes that minimize the expected total system costs, including those associated with energy losses and investments. According to extensive simulations on a standard 33-bus distribution system, our stochastic approach yields cost savings of approximately 12.3–12.4% while significantly improving voltage stability and operational efficiency under various load conditions. Assessments regarding voltage profile performance and average processing times, as well as a comparative analysis considering deterministic results, were also conducted in order to validate the effectiveness and computational efficiency of the approach. This study underscores the importance of probabilistic modeling for a smarter, more resilient grid operation, laying a solid foundation for integrating adaptive reactive power devices to support sustainable and reliable power distribution in evolving smart grid environments. Full article

Pesticides play a critical role in food production by enhancing crop yields and protecting against pests and pathogens, such as insects, bacteria, fungi, and weeds. However, their extensive use raises significant environmental concerns. The paper reviews and describes the reported adverse effects of pesticides on terrestrial and marine life to raise awareness of the ecological impact of pesticide use across life niches. The adverse effects on soil microorganisms, arthropods, reptiles, and amphibians highlight the extensive ecological disruption caused by these chemicals. Understanding the mechanisms of pesticide toxicity and their impact on various organisms is crucial for developing effective bioremediation techniques and on-field management practices. By implementing these strategies and enhancing environmental biomonitoring, countries can mitigate the harmful effects of pesticides, ultimately protecting biodiversity and ensuring the health of their ecosystems. Full article

In this work, we fabricated activated carbon using the peel of musa paradisiaca (banana) as the carbonaceous material source. The activated carbon was obtained after applied a carbonization process under nitrogen atmosphere at 723.15 K. The activated carbon was chemically modified using three chemical agents (citric acid, tartaric acid, and EDTA). The surface properties of the materials were characterized by nitrogen sorptometry at 77 K. Furthermore, we determined the zero-load point of all materials. The kinetic and isothermal behavior of the materials to remove methylene blue from aqueous solution was studied. The thermodynamic parameters of the process for all materials were determined by applying the van’t Hoff equation. Results showed that after chemical activation, there was an increase in the content of oxygenated groups onto activated carbon. Furthermore, the BET surface area of activated carbon was reduced from 808 to 724 m² g⁻¹. The volume of micropores was smaller after chemical activation and the volume of mesopores was greater. The zero-load point of materials was in a range between 4.96 and 5.60. Kinetic and isothermal results showed that after chemical modification, the removal capacity increased from 30.2 for activated carbon to 52.6 mg g⁻¹ for activated carbon modified with EDTA. Finally, the thermodynamic parameters showed that methylene blue adsorption using all materials was an endothermic and spontaneous process; the ΔG° value of activated carbon was −4.35 kJ/mol, and the ΔG° value of activated carbon modified with EDTA was −6.28 kJ/mol. Full article

Recently, we found that combining various antimicrobial polypeptides (AMPs) with enzymes exhibiting lactonase activity results in an antifungal agent with significantly enhanced stability and antimicrobial action efficiency. In this context, this study aims to investigate the catalytic and antifungal activity and physical-chemical properties of antifungal enzyme combinations hydrolyzing fungal cell wall components with various AMPs, comparing them with enzymes exhibiting lactonase activity (capable of hydrolyzing lactones by ring opening). Additionally, combinations of enzymes targeting the fungal cell wall and/or hydrolyzing fungal lactone-containing Quorum-sensing molecules with polyamino acids (PAAs) supplemented with fungicides (PAAF) were studied for comparison with AMP-containing combinations. Interaction models for these antifungal enzyme combinations were simulated in silico using the molecular docking method. The most promising variants, which were predicted to possess high catalytic activity, were selected, and their catalytic and physical-chemical characteristics were further evaluated in vitro. The antifungal activity of the selected combinations of enzymes with AMPs or PAAF was assessed against a number of fungi, leading to the identification of several combinations as potential candidates for inclusion in antifungals. Unexpectedly, antifungal enzyme combinations with lactonase activity were, in most cases, more effective than those with fungal-cell-wall-degrading enzymes. Full article

The rapid development of genomic science beyond its molecular roots to impact many aspects of clinical and rehabilitative practice presents an epistemic challenge and a pressing ethical obligation in its use in occupational therapy. By reviewing interdisciplinary literature at the intersections of genomics, bioethics, and occupational therapy, this review article seeks to unpack the ways genomic knowledge influences the understandings of health, participation, and justice within the profession. Using critical bioethical theory and socio-technical frameworks, the review discusses the movement from reductionist genetic frameworks to relational and systems-based approaches to health that consider epigenetic, environmental, and social determinants. Key themes that emerged include the promise of new understandings of personalized rehabilitation, the potential to exacerbate existing inequities, and effects on professional autonomy and ethical responsibility. The article does not advocate for or against the inclusion of genomic science in occupational therapy, but instead, advocates for reflexive, justice-oriented ethics of genomics, and concludes with a discussion of a translational bioethical framework to help support its responsible use in occupational therapy practice and policy. Full article

Melia azedarach L. (Meliaceae) exhibits potential as a source of bioactive antibacterial compounds. In this study, the effect of solvent polarity on ultrasound-assisted extraction of M. azedarach leaves and twigs was evaluated in relation to their phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity against both non-resistant and multidrug-resistant bacteria. The results showed that solvent polarity significantly affected the extraction yield, with methanol and water producing yields above 10%. The methanol extracts of twigs and leaves exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity, showing greater potency against Escherichia coli than Bacillus subtilis. Consistent with these findings, the methanol extracts inhibited the growth of multidrug-resistant enteropathogenic E. coli K1-1, resulting in inhibition zone diameters of 10.93 mm (leaf) and 7.73 mm (twig). Furthermore, the methanol extract contained the highest levels of phenolic, flavonoid, and hydroxyl-rich compounds, which were associated with its antibacterial properties. In silico analysis further revealed that isofucosterol, meliasenin, and melianone exhibited strong predicted binding affinities to key antibacterial proteins, particularly those involved in multidrug-resistant bacterial mechanisms. Full article

Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs), a product of nanotechnology, have emerged as promising biostimulants with significant applications in sustainable agriculture for enhancing crop yield and quality. In this study, the effects of foliar-applied CSNPs on yield and bioactive compounds in melon (Cucumis melo L.) fruits were evaluated. Five increasing concentrations of CSNPs (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mg mL⁻¹) were foliarly applied. The foliar spraying of CSNPs exerted positive effects on fruit productivity and nutraceutical attributes. The most significant yield and commercial quality were achieved with the 0.4 mg mL⁻¹ dose. In contrast, the 0.8 mg mL⁻¹ dose was most effective in enhancing optimal postharvest characteristics, including fruit firmness and reduced weight loss, as well as stimulating the accumulation of bioactive compounds (such as flavonoids and vitamin C) and antioxidant capacity. In the case of phenols, the highest total phenolic content was observed at concentrations of 0.6 and 0.8 mg mL⁻¹. Therefore, the foliar application of CSNPs constitutes a versatile and sustainable strategy, allowing for the tailoring of application doses to either maximize yield or enhance the functional and postharvest quality of melon fruits. Full article

This paper addresses the simultaneous feeder routing and conductor sizing problem in unbalanced three-phase distribution systems, formulated as a nonconvex mixed-integer nonlinear program (MINLP) that minimizes the equivalent annualized expansion cost—combining investment and loss costs—under voltage, ampacity, and radiality constraints. The model captures nonconvex voltage–current–power couplings, $\Delta /Y$ load asymmetries, and discrete conductor selections, creating a large combinatorial design space that challenges heuristic methods. An exact MINLP formulation in complex variables is implemented in Julia/JuMP and solved with the Basic Open-source Nonlinear Mixed Integer programming (BONMIN) solver, which integrates branch-and-bound for discrete variables and interior-point methods for nonlinear subproblems. The main contributions are: (i) a rigorous, reproducible formulation that jointly optimizes routing and conductor sizing; (ii) a transparent, replicable implementation; and (iii) a benchmark against minimum spanning tree (MST)-based and metaheuristic approaches, clarifying the trade-off between computational time and global optimality. Tests on 10- and 30-node rural feeders show that, although metaheuristics converge faster, they often yield suboptimal solutions. The proposed MINLP achieves globally optimal, technically feasible results, reducing annualized cost by 14.6% versus MST and 2.1% versus metaheuristics in the 10-node system, and by 17.2% and 2.5%, respectively, in the 30-node system. These results highlight the advantages of exact optimization for rural network planning, providing reproducible and verifiable decisions in investment-intensive scenarios. Full article

Cereal-based complementary foods are widely consumed by children, yet limited data exist on their elemental composition and potential health risks. This study quantified As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Mg, Mo, Ni, P, Pb, Se, Si, V, and Zn in eight commercial cereal-based products collected in Campo Grande, Brazil, using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). Arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, and chromium were consistently below the detection limit. Phosphorus and potassium were the predominant elements across brands, followed by Fe, Mg, and Zn, with significant inter-brand variability (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.05). Lead was detected in Brands 1–5 (0.11–0.41 mg/kg), but it was below the limit of detection (LOD = 0.003 mg/L) in the other samples. Estimated daily intake (DI) values at 30 g/day and 90 g/day showed that Fe, Zn, Mn, and Se frequently met or exceeded dietary reference intakes for children aged 1–3 years, while Cu, Ni, and P remained below tolerable levels. Comparison with tolerable upper intake levels and ATSDR minimal risk levels indicated that higher consumption (90 g/day) could result in excess intake of Mn, Zn, and Se, with Pb contributing to cumulative hazard indices above the safety threshold (HI > 1). These findings emphasize the dual role of cereal-based foods as important nutrient sources and potential contributors to excessive trace element exposure in young children. Full article

Concentrations of oxides of nitrogen (NO_x), as the sum total of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), the individual parts, i.e., NO and NO₂, (NO_x = NO + NO₂), and wind speed and direction measurements were gathered over a thirteen-year period (2011–2023) at the Giordan Lighthouse Geosciences Observatory, located on the Island of Gozo, forming part of the Maltese Archipelago (Central Mediterranean). The atmospheric concentration measurements were recorded with a Thermo Scientific Model 42i NO_x analyser, which employs the chemiluminescence technique to detect atmospheric traces of NO_x concentrations. In this case study, an investigation was conducted to understand the wind and seasonal variabilities of the measured concentrations. The highest NO_x concentrations occurred when the prevailing wind originated from the SE, while a broad minimum was observed when the wind blew from the S–W sector. The maxima were primarily associated with land-based sources, predominantly vehicular emissions on the main island, i.e., Malta. The amplitudes for NO, NO₂, and NO_x in relation to wind direction were 63%, 125%, and 121%, respectively. Significant variabilities were observed during the autumn season. Regarding wind speed, the NO_x concentrations reached their peak during high-wind-speed events, which are associated with transboundary pollution. A secondary broad maximum was observed for wind forces between 2 and 4, while the lowest concentrations were recorded at wind force 9. The NO_x concentrations exhibited a seasonal maximum in spring and a minimum in winter, which contrasts with the findings from the Monte Cimone station in Italy. The seasonal amplitudes for NO, NO₂, and NO_x were 46%, 15%, and 17%, respectively. It is evident that NO concentrations exhibited a greater seasonal variability, whereas NO₂ concentrations demonstrated significant variability in relation to wind direction. Full article

Fatigue is a multidimensional phenomenon with profound implications for performance, health, and wellbeing. Its complexity means that no single discipline can adequately explain its causes or management, highlighting the need for integrative approaches. This article introduces the F.L.A.M.E.S. framework, a psychological model that integrates self-report, physiological, emotional, and contextual perspectives on fatigue. The framework combines validated assessment tools with evidence-based management strategies including goal setting, motivational self-talk, attentional control, and emotion regulation and embeds these within proactive, reactive, and preventative approaches. Applications are illustrated through case studies in sport, healthcare, and education, showing how the model can be co-constructed with practitioners to ensure ecological validity and uptake. By linking mechanisms to management and scaling solutions across domains, the F.L.A.M.E.S. framework provides a roadmap for enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainable wellbeing. Full article

The recovery of livestock waste through multistage anaerobic digestion represents a key strategy for producing high-efficiency liquid biofertilizers within circular economy frameworks. This study compared two underexplored substrates—guinea pig manure and vermicompost leachate (VL)—processed in series biodigesters to evaluate their nutrient composition and agronomic performance. The guinea pig manure biol exhibited higher macronutrient concentrations (N = 1.09–3.74 g L⁻¹; P = 0.06–0.64 g L⁻¹; K = 1.85–3.20 g L⁻¹) and electrical conductivity (14.1–26.5 mS cm⁻¹), while VL presented a more balanced nutrient profile (N = 0.65–0.71 g L⁻¹; P = 0.04–0.09 g L⁻¹; K = 2.46–3.76 g L⁻¹) and slightly lower salinity (15.0–17.2 mS cm⁻¹). Micronutrient levels (Fe, Mn, Zn, B) exceeded the reference thresholds established by EU Regulation 2019/1009 for liquid fertilizers, suggesting the need for dilution prior to field application. In maize field trials, VL diluted 1:7 increased above-ground biomass by 28%, and guinea pig biol diluted 1:10 achieved a 22% increase compared to the control, confirming their biostimulant potential. However, the high sodium content (848–1024 mg L⁻¹) may limit application on saline or poorly drained soils, requiring adaptive agronomic management. These findings demonstrate that multistage anaerobic digestion effectively transforms unconventional organic waste into nutrient-rich biofertilizers, expanding the scientific foundation for alternative substrates and reinforcing their potential to enhance Andean smallholder agriculture, nutrient recycling, and food security within a sustainability-oriented bioeconomy. Full article

Hair dyes are widely used cosmetic products that can contain trace metals and metalloids, posing potential health risks through dermal exposure. This study aimed to assess and compare the concentrations of selected metals and metalloids in six brands of commercial hair dyes sold in Brazil and Paraguay and to evaluate their average daily dermal exposure doses, hazard quotients, hazard indices, and carcinogenic risk. Concentrations of Cr, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, As, Al, Pb, Ba, Ag, and Zn in hair dye were quantified by standardized analytical methods. The Paraguayan brand showed the highest levels for several elements, including As (4.17 mg/kg), Al (130.276 mg/kg), and Fe (30.033 mg/kg). Estimated dermal exposure doses reached up to 3.35 × 10⁻⁶ mg/kg/day for arsenic, 1.68 × 10⁻³ mg/kg/day for aluminum, and 8.59 × 10⁻⁸ mg/kg/day for chromium. Although all hazard indices remained below 1, suggesting low non-carcinogenic risk, the calculated carcinogenic risk for arsenic in the Paraguayan product was 1.23 × 10⁻⁵, entering the medium-risk range. These findings highlight relevant differences in raw material control and potential cumulative health risks, especially for frequent users. Continuous quality control, harmonized regulatory standards, clear labeling, and further biomonitoring studies are strongly recommended to minimize long-term exposure to toxic elements in hair dye formulations and to ensure safer consumer products. Full article