Search Results (166)

Molybdenum alloys as refractory alloys can provide strength levels at operating temperatures higher than that of Ni-base superalloys, yet their ductility is usually inferior to Ni-base alloys. Currently, commercialized Mo alloys are much fewer than Ni alloys. The motivation of this work is to explore opportunities of discovering useful alloys from the usually less investigated binary Mo-X systems (X = alloying element). With computational thermodynamics (CALPHAD), first-principles calculation, and mechanistic modeling combined, in this work a large number of Mo-X binary systems are investigated in terms of thermodynamic features and mechanical properties (yield strength, ductility, ductile-brittle transition temperature, creep resistance, and stress-strain relationship). The applicability of the alloy systems as solution-strengthened or precipitation-strengthened alloys is investigated. Starting from 92 Mo-X systems, a down-selection process is implemented, the results of which include three candidate systems for precipitation strengthening (Mo-B, Mo-C, Mo-Si) and one system (Mo-Re) for solid-solution strengthened alloy. In a composition optimization of Mo alloys to reach the properties of Ni-base superalloys, improving ductility is of top priority, for which Re plays a unique role. The presented workflow is also applicable to other bcc refractory alloy systems. Full article

Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) display heterogeneous histology and often unpredictable clinical behavior. The Hippo signaling pathway has been implicated in tumorigenesis, but its role in TETs remains poorly characterized. We performed the first comprehensive immunohistochemical analysis of core and upstream Hippo pathway components—YAP1, active YAP (AYAP), TAZ, LATS1, MOB1A, MST1, SAV1, and TEAD4—in 77 TETs. Associations with clinicopathological parameters and survival were explored. We observed widespread expression of Hippo components in TETs with significant associations among molecules and differences in subcellular localization and expression in normal tissue. Early stage TETs showed higher nuclear YAP1 (p = 0.032) and AYAP (p = 0.007), while cytoplasmic MST1 (p = 0.002), LATS1 (p = 0.007), MOB1A (p = 0.033) and TEAD4 (p < 0.001) correlated with advanced stage. Cytoplasmic MST1 (p = 0.014), LATS1 (p < 0.001) and TEAD4 (p = 0.005) were associated with histological aggressiveness. Cytoplasmic TEAD4 overexpression was associated with poorer overall survival (log-rank, <70% versus ≥70%, p = 0.003). Our findings provide novel insights into the differential regulation and compartmentalization of Hippo components in TETs. While indolent tumors show features that are consistent with partial Hippo inactivation, more aggressive phenotypes exhibit reduced nuclear YAP/TAZ and altered TEAD4 compartmentalization, suggesting a context-dependent Hippo signaling state. Cytoplasmic TEAD4 emerges as a potential adverse prognosticator, indicating involvement in non-canonical or Hippo-independent mechanisms. Full article

This paper considers the spatial distribution of gold occurrences, their geochemical anomalies, and late Mesozoic igneous complexes within the framing of the eastern flank of the Mongol–Okhotsk orogenic belt (EF MOOB). It is established that elevated gold concentrations are associated with telescoped igneous complexes formed in different geodynamic regimes. The southern framing of the EF MOOB (Russia) was chosen as the key study area due to its well-preserved superposition of multi-stage igneous events. These stages are considered using the example of the Uskalin intrusive massif. It is a representative example where three geodynamic phases are recorded, namely initial supra-subduction (149–138 Ma), subduction (140–122 Ma), and collision (119–97 Ma). It is shown that the massif is composed of granitoids aged 145 Ma, 129 Ma, and 112 Ma, which correspond to the distinguished geodynamic stages. Geochemical characteristics of the rocks of the first two stages completely coincide with those of the rocks corresponding to the geodynamic stages. The exception is the formations from the collision process. At this stage, differences appear in the rocks, which are manifested in the Sr/Y ratio. These values are comparable with those in the granitoids of the adakite series. Such differences were established only within gold-bearing areas. The formation of the Uskalin massif was accompanied by extensive mineralization zones with gold-bearing veins. Gold concentrations in granitoids of the adakite series (145 Ma) exceed the crustal Clarke value by 2.25 times, which directly links mineralization with magmatic processes. It is assumed that the presence of collision-stage rocks with signs of the adakite signature may be one of the signs of detection of epithermal gold ore objects in the zones of magmatic telescoping. Taking into account the evolution of the MOOB associated with the closure of the MOB and with the accompanying magmatic events, an analog of which is considered using the example of the southern framing of the EF MOOB, it is possible to assume the use of the obtained results in conducting exploration work for ore gold in this region. Full article

Football is a low-scoring sport where a single goal can determine a team’s success. Understanding shot effectiveness and goalkeeper performance is crucial for optimizing match success. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of shots and goalkeeper interventions by identifying the most favorable areas on the field and within the goal. An observational notational analysis was conducted on 15,266 on-target shots from five major European leagues (Premier League, LaLiga, Bundesliga, Serie A, Ligue 1) during the 2022/2023 season. Data were extracted from FotMob and analyzed in SPSS using Pearson’s chi-square test (χ²) and adjusted residuals (AR) to determine significant patterns. Field and goal zones were divided based on previous studies, with the penalty area receiving further subdivisions due to its relevance to the analysis. The results indicated that match context, target areas within the goal, field zones, and previously identified high-effectiveness areas significantly influenced shot success (χ² < 0.001). Similarly, a significant association was found between the shooting foot and the side of attack (χ² < 0.001), while the body part used did not significantly affect the outcome (χ² = 0.077). Understanding these patterns helps coaches and players optimize team performance. Future studies should analyze additional seasons to confirm these results. Full article

This article presents acoustic data on coarticulatory vowel nasalization from the productions of twelve L1 Korean speakers and of fourteen Korean learners of L2 English. The dataset includes eight monosyllabic target words embedded in eight carrier sentences, each repeated four times per speaker. Half of the words contain a nasal coda such as p*am in Korean and bomb in English and the other half a nasal onset such as mat in Korean and mob in English. These were produced under varied prosodic conditions, including three phrase positions and two focus conditions, enabling analysis of prosodic effects on vowel nasalization across languages along with individual speaker variation. The accompanying CSV files provide acoustic measurements such as nasal consonant duration, A1-P0, and normalized A1-P0 at multiple timepoints within the vowel. While theoretical implications have been discussed in two published studies, the full dataset is published here. By making these data publicly available, we aim to promote broad reuse and encourage further research at the intersection of prosody, phonetics, and second language acquisition—ultimately advancing our understanding of how phonetic patterns emerge, transfer, and vary across languages and learners. Full article

Quaternary NiCoMoB electrocatalysts exhibited significantly enhanced OER performance compared to their ternary NiCoMo and NiCoB counterparts. An optimal Mo/B ratio of 1 (NiCoMo_yB_y) demonstrated a superior OER activity, attributed to a balance between the electronic and structural contributions from Mo and B, maximizing the electrocatalytic site density and activity. NiCoMo_yB_y-SA, a nanoparticle version synthesized via a surfactant-assisted method, showed further improved performance. The OER activity was evaluated by comparing overpotentials at 10 mA/cm², with NiCoMo_xB_1−x, NiCoMo_yB_y, and NiCoMo_yB_y-SA exhibiting 293, 284, and 270 mV, respectively. NiCoMo_yB_y-SA also demonstrated the lowest onset potential (1.45 V), reflecting a superior efficiency. Chronoamperometry in 1 M pre-electrolyzed KOH at 30 °C highlighted NiCoMo_yB_y-SA’s stability, activating within hours at 10 mA/cm² and stabilizing over 7 days. At 50 mA/cm², the overpotential increased minimally (0.02 mV/h over 2 days), and even at 100 mA/cm² for 10 days, the activity declined only slightly, affirming a high stability. These findings demonstrate NiCoMoB electrocatalysts as cost-effective, efficient OER electrocatalysts, advancing sustainable energy technologies. Full article

This manuscript investigates the integration of micromobility solutions in four Swiss contexts, with a primary focus on Lugano as the testing area. Through urban analysis, urban experiment, and social testing, the Inclusive MicroMob project introduced Genny Zero, an innovative micromobility device, to assess its impact on urban mobility. The findings highlight key factors for successful micromobility integration, including the need for an interdisciplinary approach that includes a holistic urban overview, an improved road safety analysis, and clear regulatory frameworks. This study also emphasizes the importance of participatory urban governance in addressing community needs and ensuring accessibility. Policy recommendations are provided to support the development of inclusive and sustainable micromobility systems in medium-sized cities. Full article

Disulfide bonds are crucial for stabilizing bioactive peptides such as conotoxins. We have developed a method for synthesizing conotoxins with three disulfide bonds using Mob, Trt, and Acm protection groups for regionally selective synthesis. This approach enabled the efficient synthesis of peptides with the desired disulfide bond connectivities independent of their sequences. Using our strategy, we synthesized five conotoxins, achieving yields of 20–30%. The results demonstrate the potential of our method for synthesizing complex peptides with multiple disulfide bonds. Full article

This study investigates the effects of molybdenum (Mo) and boron (B) on the microstructures and impact properties in the coarse grain heat-affected zone (CGHAZ) of a low-carbon V-Ti-N steel. The results demonstrate that, at a heat input of up to 75 kJ/cm, the addition of Mo alters the microstructure of the CGHAZ, transforming it from a polygonal ferrite (PF) + degraded pearlite (DP) composition to a granular bainite (GB) + a small amount of acicular ferrite (AF). This transformation increases the impact energy from 20 J to 35 J. Furthermore, with the Mo/B composite addition, the CGHAZ microstructure was refined due to the formation of a large number of acicular ferrites, and the mean equivalent diameter (MED_MTA≥15°) decreased from 7.9 μm to 4.2 μm. Consequently, the impact toughness of the CGHAZ increased from 35 J to 111 J. The correlation between the Mo/B elements, microstructure and impact toughness was investigated in detail. The findings of this study have the potential to generate novel ideas for the advancement of steel materials in the context of high heat input welding. Full article

Mobbing, also referred to as workplace bullying, has significant impacts on employee behavior within organizational contexts, negatively affecting organizational performance. Consequently, promoting workplace well-being and individual performance emerges as a critical factor in mitigating the adverse effects associated with this phenomenon. This study aims to fill a gap in the research because it integrates a sequential mediation model, which elucidates the underlying mechanisms through which mobbing influences organizational outcomes. The research involved 388 workers from the public and private sectors, aged between 21 and 59 years, selected through non-probabilistic convenience sampling. Despite its limitations, this method was chosen to ensure an adequate representation of employees experiencing workplace mobbing across different sectors. Data collection was carried out using the Luxembourg Workplace Mobbing Scale, the Job Performance Questionnaire, the Organizational Performance Questionnaire, and the Workplace Welfare Scale. The findings revealed that high levels of mobbing are significantly associated with a reduction in organizational performance. Furthermore, workplace well-being and individual performance were identified as serial mediators in this relationship, indicating that more harmonious work environments enhance individual efficacy, thereby contributing to improved organizational performance. These results highlight the importance of strategic interventions focused on promoting well-being in the workplace to promote healthier and more productive organizational cultures. Full article

This study aimed to identify insertion–deletion (InDel) variants in key genes of the Hippo signaling pathway in four Chinese sheep breeds: Tong sheep (TS), Hu sheep (HS), Small Tail Han sheep (STHS), and Lanzhou large-tailed sheep (LLTS). InDel variants in MST1/2, LATS1/2, SAV1, MOB1A/B, and YAP/TAZ genes were screened using public databases and identified through PCR amplification, gel electrophoresis, and sequencing. This study identified significant associations between InDel variants and growth traits across the four breeds. Specifically, three loci in the MST1 gene were significantly associated with chest circumference, body height, and body weight in STHS, HS, and TS. Four loci in MST2 influenced hip height, body weight, and chest circumference across all breeds (p < 0.05). Additionally, two loci in YAP significantly affected body height, chest circumference, and body length in LLTS, STHS, and TS, while three loci in the MOB1A gene strongly impacted cannon circumference in all breeds (p < 0.05). These InDel variants may serve as potential molecular markers for breeding. These findings highlight the potential of these InDel variants as molecular markers for sheep breeding and provide valuable resources for improving growth traits in sheep through molecular breeding. Full article

To enhance the high-temperature oxidation resistance of molybdenum-based materials, Y₂O₃-CeO₂ co-modified silicide coatings were produced on molybdenum substrates using two-step pack cementation. The microstructure and phase composition of Y₂O₃-CeO₂ co-modified composite coatings were examined both before and after oxidation. A detailed analysis of the antioxidant properties of the co-modified coatings and the mechanisms behind the modifications was also conducted. The incorporation of 1.0 wt.% CeO₂ and 1.5 wt.% Y₂O₃ into the composite coatings resulted in a dense, non-porous, maximum-thickness microstructure. This microstructure is characterized by the uniform distribution of parallel MoSi₂ and MoB layers on the substrate. In particular, the coating containing 1.5 wt.% Y₂O₃ exhibited superior oxidation resistance, with a weight gain of 0.29 mg/cm² and an oxidation rate constant of 6.68 × 10⁻⁴ mg²/(cm⁴·h) after oxidation at 1150 °C for 255 h. During oxidation, a dense SiO₂ oxide film is formed through the cooperation of Y₂O₃ and CeO₂, inhibiting further Si diffusion into the substrate and reducing the formation of the Mo₅Si₃ layer. Full article

The Mobility Intensive Training (Mob-IT) protocol is an innovative intervention focused on motor learning to improve the mobility of children with cerebral palsy (CP). The objective was to describe the feasibility and intervention fidelity of Mob-IT. A single-subject experimental study was conducted with four children with CP, a median age of 11 (7–13) years, and a Gross Motor Function Classification System I–III. The Mob-IT included 24 h of practice of mobility goals, delivered three times a week in 2 h sessions over four weeks. Feasibility was assessed using the Qualitative Feedback Questionnaire (QFQ), evaluating adherence, acceptability, adverse effects, the clarity of procedures, and intervention time. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) was used to assess participant and caregiver satisfaction. Fidelity was measured by the type of feedback provided (intrinsic vs. extrinsic), task challenge level, and intervention volume. Participants reported good acceptance, few adverse effects, and satisfaction with the outcomes. The intervention adhered to the proposed principles, with a focus on extrinsic feedback and tasks showing progression over time. Time was well spent, being 78% focused on activities and using mostly extrinsic-focused feedback. The Mob-IT protocol was considered feasible and faithful to its principles. As this is a feasibility study, the results indicate the need to expand the intervention to a larger, randomized study. Full article

Water-based nutrient injection technology, widely used in sectors like viticulture, hydroponics, and intensive animal systems, has previously seen limited application in livestock production. Early mechanical dispensers for nutrients, such as non-protein nitrogen (NPN) and phosphorus (P), were prone to malfunction, leading to inconsistent dosing and potential livestock health risks. This contributed to skepticism and slow adoption among producers. However, recent technological advancements have renewed interest in water-based supplementation for grazing animals. This case study assessed the use of water injection technology to deliver nutrients and a methane-reducing compound to cattle on a commercial cattle station under extensive grazing conditions. A total of 120 steers [initial liveweight (LW) 322.5 ± 28.3 kg] were assigned to three groups: water only (Control), a water supplement containing nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, known as uPRO GREEN^® (Green), and uPRO GREEN^® combined with Agolin Ruminant L^® (Blue). The experiment lasted 90 days, during which LW was continuously monitored via a walk-over weighing system, and water disappearance was measured at the mob level. Methane emissions were forecasted using dry matter intake estimates based on observed animal growth rates. Additionally, 24 steers were equipped with on-animal sensors with GPS to monitor behavioral changes. The results indicate that despite the potential reduction in water intake (Control and Green: 948.1 and 973.5 L/d, respectively, versus 547.5 L/d for Blue), there were no negative effects on growth (mean average daily gain of 1.32 kg/d) or animal behaviors. The predicted methane emission of 209.04 g CH₄/head/day could potentially be reduced by 10–15% with the compound used in the current trial. These findings suggest that water-based supplementation can be used to optimize nutrient delivery and a methane-reducing compound without compromising cattle productivity in extensive grazing environments. In addition, the potential enteric methane mitigation presents an opportunity for livestock producers to generate additional revenue through carbon credits or to create new markets for beef with low greenhouse gas emissions when cattle consume methane-reducing compounds. Full article

China has recently launched extensive marine ranching projects, highlighting the need for scientific evaluation of ecosystem structure and function to guide their development. This study established two energy flow models and an evaluation index system to assess the structure, function, carrying capacity, and ecological status of both a marine ranching ecosystem and a nearby control site in the Beibu Gulf. The results show that the ranching ecosystem outperformed the control ecosystem in terms of food chain length, system size, and ecological carrying capacity of economically important species. The ranching ecosystem was classified as “relatively good”, while the control ecosystem was deemed “relatively poor”, which may confirm the success of the ranching efforts. Mussels, large crabs, and scorpaenidae were identified as key species for stock enhancement based on their biomass potential. Scenario simulations using Ecosim, driven by biomass and fishing factors, indicate that stock enhancement strategies targeting MOB (mussels, oysters, and barnacles) significantly improved the ranching ecosystem, raising its status to “good”. However, the simulations also revealed that stock enhancement had limited effects on optimizing food web structure, system organization, and energy transfer efficiency, suggesting that a combination of strategies is necessary for further improvement. Full article