Soft visco-hyperelastic micropillar arrays, elastomeric nanocomposites reinforced with graphene, MXene, or carbon nanotubes, provide tunable mechanical compliance essential for wearable sensors, soft robotics, and bio-integrated microdevices. Nevertheless, the nonlinear vibrational dynamics of rigid microstructures supported by such compliant foundations under operational base excitations remain poorly characterized, particularly when finite deformations activate strong geometric and material nonlinearities. This work develops a physics-based model that couples incompressible neo-Hookean hyperelasticity with Kelvin–Voigt viscoelasticity to capture large-strain dynamics of PDMS-based micropillar arrays supporting a metallic microplate under harmonic base excitation. Through Galerkin projection of the governing equation of motion, frequency–amplitude responses reveal four quantified design principles for engineering predictable dynamics: (i) nanofiller incorporation that raises the effective modulus from 0.4 to 1.5 MPa suppresses classical jump phenomena and reduces bifurcation interval lengths by up to 90
This study investigates nonlinear (quadratic) thermal and solutal buoyancy effects in nanofluid boundary-layer flow over the external surface of a truncated cone, motivated by applications in nanomaterial coating processes. The analysis incorporates Soret diffusion and internal heat generation or absorption, while accounting for both nanoparticle diffusion and solute mass transport. The Buongiorno two-component nanofluid model is employed to capture Brownian motion and thermophoretic effects. A non-similarity formulation yields a coupled system of nonlinear, dimensionless partial differential equations subject to appropriate boundary conditions. The governing equations are solved numerically using a bivariate pseudo-spectral local linearization method implemented in MATLAB, and the results are validated through comparison with asymptotic solutions. Parametric results demonstrate that enhanced nonlinear thermal and solutal buoyancy significantly increase surface shear stress and heat transfer rates. Increased Brownian motion and thermophoretic effects reduce heat transfer, whereas stronger Soret diffusion enhances it. Solutal mass transfer to the cone surface is promoted by nonlinear buoyancy and heat generation but is suppressed under heat absorption conditions.
Mesoporous silica (MS) is an excellent adsorbent for removing methylene blue (MB) in solution. However, the adsorption process only transfers mass from the solution to the MS surface, leading to adsorbent saturation and a disposal issue for solid waste. To address this, zinc (Zn) at 10–30
This study examined the physicochemical characteristics, antibacterial activity, and anti-biofilm efficacy of Curcuma longa nano-emulsions formulated using a lactic acid–menthol–based hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent as the oil phase and Tween 80–propylene glycol or Tween 20–propylene glycol (1:1, v/v) as surfactant systems, designated C. longa-T-80-8 and C. longa-T-20-8, was evaluated. Droplet size, PDI, and zeta potential were determined for both formulations, and their morphological characteristics were analysed using SEM. The C. longa-T-80-8 formulation demonstrated superior physicochemical performance, exhibiting a smaller droplet size (235.2 ± 6.4 nm), lower PDI (0.219 ± 0.008), and greater electrostatic stability (− 36.6 ± 3.7 mV). Antibacterial assays revealed strong inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus (0.1–0.3 / 0.1–0.6
Landslides are recurrent disasters in Aceh Jaya Regency, driven by steep topography, intense rainfall, and the increasing rate of deforestation. These events frequently disrupt communities and damage critical infrastructure, causing economic losses and the displacement of residents. Therefore, precise landslide susceptibility mapping is crucial for effective disaster-risk mitigation. For this purpose, GIS-based Frequency Ratio (FR) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) approaches were applied to develop a rapid and operational landslide susceptibility map at the regional scale. The eight causative factors of landslides considered in this study were slope, lithology, lineament density, rainfall, drainage density, elevation, soil type, and land use/land cover (LULC). Causative factors were divided into sub-factors and weighted based on the FR and AHP approaches. The landslide susceptibility maps were categorized into five levels: very low, low, medium, high, and very high. The results show that the high to very high landslide susceptibility categories for FR and AHP were 40
The controlled production of submicron magnetite is critical for emerging applications in targeted drug delivery and advanced functional materials, where particle size, crystallinity, and magnetism must be tuned simultaneously. In this work, natural magnetite from Indonesian iron ore is milled in a PPF–Ultimate Gravity Shaker Mill (PPF–UG) to systematically elucidate the coupled effects of milling time and grinding media (alumina, steel, zirconia) on its physicochemical properties. X-ray diffraction reveals a progressive loss of crystallinity with increasing milling time, with zirconia media producing the strongest peak attenuation, consistent with higher impact energy and partial amorphization. Particle size analysis shows an initial comminution stage (up to 2 h) followed by agglomeration-dominated behavior; the highest submicron fraction (10.58 wt
Tropical soil degradation and the microplastic pollution associated with conventional geosynthetics have motivated the development of bioengineering strategies based on renewable materials intended to perform within a limited service window. This study assesses the technical feasibility and functional durability of geotextiles produced from Typha domingensis and Syagrus coronata and applies probabilistic modeling to propose engineering specifications grounded in chemical and mechanical degradation under real field exposure. Within the studied species pair, fiber chemical architecture, particularly the lignin-to-cellulose ratio (L/C), appears to modulate biodegradation kinetics, although the limited two-species dataset precludes broader generalization. For Typha domingensis, alkaline mercerization with 6
The development of copper-doped iron sulphide ( Cu_xFe_1-xS ) thin films was accomplished by the chemical bath deposition (CBD) method. The morphological and optical measurements were done to see if the films may be suitable for optoelectronic applications. The copper-doped iron sulphide material that was formed by changing the concentrations of copper exhibits a micrograph with a variety of irregular and rough grain sizes and shapes. EDX analysis of the deposited films showed that the stoichiometry and the thickness depended on copper concentrations. The linear optical results of the copper-doped iron sulphide films revealed that the band-gap ( E_g ) values were decreased from 2.25 to 1.40 eV by increasing the copper content in the analysed samples. Further, the rise in copper content enhanced the refractive index from 2.25 to 2.66. As the copper concentration was changed, the absorbance of the films decreased. Simultaneously, it was discovered that other optical constants changed as the copper level increased, including an increase in transmittance and reflectance, both of which are critical for optimising the performance of optoelectronic devices. According to the results, these samples can be used as a novel absorber layer in optoelectronic applications, particularly due to their improved optical properties and efficiency at varying copper concentrations.
Global energy demands and fossil fuel environmental impacts necessitate sustainable renewable alternatives. Seaweed (macroalgae), as a third-generation feedstock, offers a promising solution. This review evaluates the potential of seaweed-derived biofuels, including bioethanol, biogas, and biodiesel. It examines the classification, morphology, and biochemical composition of brown, red, and green algae, highlighting their suitability for biomass conversion. Furthermore, the review analyzes cultivation methodologies, essential pretreatment techniques, and specific biochemical pathways for biofuel production. While acknowledging seaweed’s potential, critical challenges are addressed, including cultivation demands, species specificity, complex biomass structures, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. Special emphasis is placed on regional perspectives and policy hurdles in the Arab world. By synthesizing current advancements, this review provides strategic insights into seaweed-based biorefineries’ role in fostering a circular bioeconomy, contributing to global energy security and environmental sustainability.
In contrast to the homogenized biodiversity of intensive agriculture, the argan forest is shaped by low-intensity, traditional silvo-pastoral practices that foster a highly heterogeneous landscape. This study addresses a critical research gap by examining how indigenous systems, such as the Agdal, and argan canopy microclimates support endemic and stress-tolerant species. Consequently, these traditional management regimes preserve unique weed assemblages that would otherwise be lost in high-input agroecosystems. While weeds cause significant economic losses in agroecosystems, their communities within Morocco’s argan biosphere remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to identify weeds in argan cultivation and analyze their distribution, diversity, and impact in relation to area, location, and year. Across all study sites, we recorded 147 weed species from 34 families, with Asteraceae (17.7
The work presented a numerical solution of the parabolic delay convection diffusion equations involving a singular perturbation, coupled with an integral boundary condition. Adopting a numerical scheme uniform with regard to the perturbation parameter, utilizing the implicit Euler scheme as a solution approach with respect to the time component, as well as a cubic spline with tension approach as a solution scheme with respect to space components, to which the simulation of an integral boundary condition is done by adopting the Simpsons 1/3 rule. It should be noted here that this numerical approach does not require any a priori information related to the value or position related to boundary layers. Uniform convergence and a related stability are presented as a second order related to space component alongside a first order related to time. The method’s applicability is demonstrated using numerical examples, reproducing the convergence order correctly as presented by this theory.
Steppes are specific terrestrial herbaceous ecosystems and play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and climate regulation. The resilience of steppe ecosystems is measured by the key indicator of net primary productivity (NPP), which reflects the combined influence of climatic and anthropogenic factors. Assessing productivity in combination with climatic factors allows us to predict the ecosystem responses under global climate change and increasing human impact. The NPP components of steppes at the southeastern slope of Mount Aragats were quantified during 2019–2024 and the role of annual and climatic drivers were assessed. This study provides a novel, integrated analysis of biomass allocation within closely spaced grasslands of the South Caucasus, accounting for soil, vegetation, and climatic variability. Above and belowground biomass sampling was conducted randomly using 1 m2 and 0.4 m2 folding meters across six steppe sites each sized one hectare. Based on the collected data, total biomass and the ratio of belowground to aboveground biomass were calculated. The climatic conditions created contrasting growth environments, with high temperatures generally associated with low precipitation, and vice versa. Temperature fluctuations were more pronounced during the active growing season, while precipitations were distributed relatively evenly throughout the season. The results showed that the ratio of belowground to aboveground biomass varied widely (2.3–31.4), with high values observed in relatively dry grass-forbs steppes and low values for mix grass-legume-forbs ones. It was found that temperature during the growing season and precipitation during the non-growing season explained 75
Pesticide use for controlling agricultural pests is now a significant public concern, primarily due to the associated risks to health and the environment. This paper explores the growing field of biopesticides. We analyze the development, production methods, and agricultural uses of these biological alternatives, along with a discussion of market trends and novel technologies in their extraction and formulation. To assess current trends, more than 7000 Scopus-indexed documents on biopesticides from 1985 to 2024 were analyzed via VOSviewer software. The three classes of biopesticides—biochemicals, microbials, and plant-incorporated protectants—are distinguished by their active ingredients. Representing 5
Photovoltaic (PV) technology is a cornerstone of the global transition toward low-carbon energy systems, yet its performance and durability remain strongly constrained by temperature-induced efficiency losses and accelerated material degradation. As PV deployment expands into high-irradiance and harsh climatic regions, effective thermal management has become a critical requirement for sustaining energy yield and long-term reliability. Over the past decade, significant research efforts have advanced a wide spectrum of PV cooling strategies, broadly classified into active and passive approaches. Active cooling methods, including air-based, water-based, thermoelectric, and nanofluid-assisted systems, can deliver substantial temperature reduction and efficiency gains but introduce parasitic energy consumption, added system complexity, and resource-use considerations. Passive solutions, such as phase change materials, heat sinks, heat pipes, and radiative cooling surfaces, offer energy-free operation and enhanced sustainability, although their effectiveness is often constrained under extreme thermal loads. This review critically synthesizes recent developments in both active and passive PV cooling technologies, with particular emphasis on performance, system scalability, and environmental and sustainability considerations. Emerging trends, including hybrid architectures, eco-friendly nanofluids, bio-based phase change materials, and thermoelectric integration for both cooling and waste-heat recovery, are discussed in the context of real-world deployment constraints. By linking thermal performance with lifecycle sustainability, resource efficiency, and net energy benefit, this review provides a holistic perspective on next-generation PV cooling strategies to support efficient, reliable, and environmentally responsible solar power generation.
Soft Rot Pectobacteriaceae (SRP), especially Dickeya species, are among the most damaging bacterial pathogens of potatoes, causing blackleg and soft rot in temperate and colder environments. Recently, Dickeya solani has become the leading potato pathogen in Europe and Russia, gradually replacing previously common species like Dickeya dadantii. This review combines epidemiological, physiological, transcriptomic, and comparative genomic data to explain D. solani ‘s ecological success and temperature adaptation. A structured review of published studies addresses pathogen emergence, population structure, virulence regulation, temperature-dependent gene expression, and genome structure. Comparative genomics indicates that D. solani and D. dadantii share a highly conserved virulence core, including enzymes that degrade plant cell walls, secretion systems, and motility functions. However, D. solani has a more stable accessory genome, rich in pathways for metabolism, stress response, and secondary metabolites, which enhance its competitiveness. Transcriptomic studies reveal that small sets of temperature-responsive genes, particularly those controlled by global regulators such as PecT, PecS, and KdgR, as well as quorum-sensing systems, significantly affect virulence, motility, and secretion. These regulatory networks allow temperature-controlled virulence, lower inoculum requirements, and persistence in variable seasonal conditions. The review also points to environmental reservoirs, seed trade, and climate variability as key factors in disease cycles. Overall, D. solani ‘s dominance likely stems from its regulatory adaptability and ecological optimization, rather than from the acquisition of new virulence genes. Combining comparative genomics with climate-aware diagnostics and surveillance is crucial for predicting disease outbreaks amid ongoing climate change.
Synthetic dyes are extensively used in the textile industry and represent a major source of environmental pollution due to the discharge of colored effluents into aquatic ecosystems. Conventional physical and chemical treatment methods are often ineffective in completely removing these dyes and may generate secondary pollutants or increase toxicity. Consequently, environmentally friendly and sustainable biological alternatives are required. This study aimed to isolate, characterize, and evaluate indigenous fungi from dye-contaminated environments for the decolorization of Remazol Red (RR) dye. Fungal isolates were obtained from the Cibuluh River, Cisadane River, and textile industry wastewater treatment plants. Initial screening was performed on solid media containing RR dye, resulting in 45 fungal isolates, of which 15 demonstrated strong resistance and decolorization capability at elevated dye concentrations. Five promising isolates (TB1, TB3, TB4, SB1, and SB2) were further evaluated in liquid media containing RR at concentrations ranging from 100 to 1000 mg/L. Among the tested isolates, TB1, TB3, and TB4 exhibited the highest decolorization efficiencies, achieving nearly complete dye removal at lower concentrations and maintaining substantial activity even at higher levels within five days of incubation. Visual observations and spectrophotometric analyses confirmed effective dye removal. Morphological and molecular identification based on ITS sequencing revealed that SB1 was closely related to Aspergillus tamarii, SB2 to Aspergillus awamori, TB1 to Aspergillus niger, TB4 to Trametes polyzona, and TB3 to Cladosporium cladosporioides. This study highlights the strong potential of indigenous fungi as cost-effective and sustainable agents for textile dye bioremediation.
The increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance has heightened the search for alternative therapeutic approaches that are both effective and environmentally sustainable. This study introduces a green synthesis approach for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) leaf extract, leveraging its rich phytochemical composition for nanoparticle formation and stabilization. Prepared AgNPs were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, FE-SEM, EDX, and XRD. These analyses verified the formation of spherical, crystalline particles averaging approximately 39.60 nm in diameter. To evaluate their antimicrobial potential, we tested Tulsi extract, AgNPs, and their combinations with conventional antimicrobial agents against Bacillus cereus and Candida albicans. The finding revealed that the AgNPs showed significantly enhanced antimicrobial activity compared to the Tulsi extract alone. Notably, the most effective outcomes were observed when the AgNPs was combined with antimicrobial agents, suggesting a synergistic interaction. These results highlight the potential of plant-mediated AgNPs to significantly enhance existing therapies, offering a novel and eco-friendly approach to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens.
The mechanical and thermal properties of alkali-treated pineapple leaf fiber-reinforced epoxy (PLF/Ep) composites are investigated in this work in relation to silane-modified tourmaline (Tln). Composites were fabricated using hand lay-up and compression molding with five levels of Tln filler. The Tln addition aimed to enhance the load-bearing capacity of the PLF/Ep system. The composite with 8 wt
Nowadays, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is recognized as an important and common opportunistic pathogen in nosocomial infections, particularly in patients with wounds and burns. Its ability to form biofilms, express virulence-associated genes, and resist multiple antibiotics presents significant therapeutic challenges. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. aeruginosa strains, focusing on biofilm formation, serotype distribution, and virulence gene expression in isolates obtained from wound and burn infections. In this study, a total of 150 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa were collected from hospitalized patients at Baghdad Medical City between 2022 and 2024. Bacterial identification was performed using standard phenotypic and biochemical methods (API 20E). Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the disk diffusion method according to EUCAST guidelines. Isolates resistant to three or more classes of antibiotics were defined as MDR isolates. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production was detected using the double-disk synergy test. Biofilm formation was evaluated via microtiter plate assay. The prevalence of serotypes, quorum sensing systems, and virulence genes was investigated using the multiplex PCR technique. Analysis of P. aeruginosa isolates from wound and burn patients demonstrated that 59
This study, well-ordered arrays of SnO2 NRs were synthesized on fluorine-doped tin oxide glass (FTO) substrates using a low-temperature vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) method at 550 °C in air. Structural properties, surface morphology, and optical properties of SnO2 NRs were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The performance of SnO₂-based DSSCs is fundamentally limited by significant charge recombination losses, primarily occurring at surface trap states within the SnO₂ nanostructures and via back-electron transfer at the SnO₂/FTO interface. The present work demonstrates that recombination issues persist. At the same time, the SnO2 NRs-based DSSC improves external quantum efficiency within the 400–700 nm wavelength range, as indicated by the non-ideal diode behavior (m ≈ 1.7). The photovoltaic parameters of DSSC based on SnO2 nanorod like open circuit voltage (VOC) and short-circuit current density (JSC) were 0.678 V and 2.15 mA/cm² respectively, while the fill factor (FF) was 0.56 indicates significant electrical losses. Open-circuit voltage decay and charge carrier lifetime analyses reveal that further optimization is required for higher efficiency. These findings suggest that SnO2 NRs have significant potential as photoanodes, but addressing surface traps and recombination is crucial for advancing their practical application in DSSCs.
