Zn(ferulate)-LSH Systems as Multifunctional Filters

Excessive UV solar radiation exposure causes human health risks; therefore, the study of multifunctional filters is important to skin UV protective ability and also to other beneficial activities to the human organism, such as reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) responsible for cellular damages. Potential multifunctional filters were obtained by intercalating of ferulate anions into layered simple metal hydroxides (LSH) through anion exchange and precipitation at constant pH methods. Ultrasound treatment was used in order to investigate the structural changes in LSH-ferulate materials. Structural and spectroscopic analyses show the formation of layered materials composed by a mixture of LSH intercalated with ferulate anions, where carboxylate groups of ferulate species interact with LSH layers. UV-VIS absorption spectra and in vitro SPF measurements indicate that LSH-ferulate systems have UV shielding capacity, mainly UVB protection. The results of reactive species assays show the ability of layered compounds in capture DPPH^•, ABTS^•+, ROO^•, and HOCl/OCl⁻ reactive species. LSH-ferulate materials exhibit antioxidant activity and singular optical properties that enable their use as multifunctional filters.     

求解复杂湍流的非线性涡黏性系数模型和代数应力模型

非线性涡黏性系数模型和代数应力模型联系了线性涡黏性系数湍流模型和完整的微分 雷诺应力模型.随着它们受到日益关注,其形式也越来越多样化.本篇综述的目的是对这些模 型加以总结并比较它们之间的共同点及不同之处,指出它们与完整微分雷诺应力模型之间的 关系,以及相对于线性涡黏性系数模型而言它们在预报流场上所具有的优势.     

A Water Molecule Triggers Guest Exchange at a Mono-Zinc Centre Confined in a Biomimetic Calixarene Pocket: a Model for Understanding Ligand Stability in Zn Proteins

In this study, the ligand exchange mechanism at a biomimetic Zn^II centre, embedded in a pocket mimicking the possible constrains induced by a proteic structure, is explored. The residence time of different guest ligands (dimethylformamide, acetonitrile and ethanol) inside the cavity of a calix[6]arene-based tris(imidazole) tetrahedral zinc complex was probed using 1D EXchange SpectroscopY NMR experiments. A strong dependence of residence time on water content was observed with no exchange occurring under anhydrous conditions, even in the presence of a large excess of guest ligand. These results advocate for an associative exchange mechanism involving the transient exo-coordination of a water molecule, giving rise to 5-coordinate Zn^II intermediates, and inversion of the pyramid at the Zn^II centre. Theoretical modelling by DFT confirmed that the associative mechanism is at stake. These results are particularly relevant in the context of the understanding of kinetic stability/lability in Zn proteins and highlight the key role that a single water molecule can play in catalysing ligand exchange and controlling the lability of Zn^II in proteins.     

The xraylib library for X-ray–matter interactions. Recent developments

This work presents the recent developments of xraylib, an ANSI C library that provides convenient access to a large number of X-ray related databases, with a focus on quantitative X-ray fluorescence applications. The enhancements include improved X-ray fluorescence production cross sections that take into account cascade effects and M-lines, as well as revised line energies, atomic level widths, Compton broadening profiles etc. A full overview of the complete application programming interface is presented.     

The simulation of molecular and organic devices: a critical review and look at future developments

Molecular devices have lately attracted increased attention due to some appealing features such as their low production cost, flexibility in the substrate choice, possibility of large area deployment, and possibly higher integration capabilities. Starting from a series of results obtained from our groups, we critically review the state-of-the-art in the field of simulation of organic and molecular systems, by analyzing and comparing existing approaches, and looking at the open problems and possible solutions and future developments. PACS 72.80.Le     

The Cohomology of the Universal Steenrod Algebra

The mod 2 universal Steenrod algebra Q is a homogeneous quadratic algebra closely related to the ordinary mod 2 Steenrod algebra and the Lambda algebra introduced in [1]. In this paper we show that Q is Koszul. It follows by [7] that its cohomology, being purely diagonal, is isomorphic to a completion of Q itself with respect to a suitable chain of two-sided ideals.     

Non-destructive characterization of compositional and textural properties of Etruscan bronzes: a multi-method approach

A combination of conventional analytical techniques, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and scanning electron microscopy-electron probe microanalysis (SEM-EPMA), with novel applications of neutron scattering were employed for a non-destructive study of 6th century BC Etruscan bronze plates discovered almost two centuries ago in a princely chamber tomb in Umbria, Italy. The pieces were used to richly decorate a ceremonial carriage, two war chariots and some furniture. Analytical investigations have been carried out to provide the essential information to correctly assign several fragments in order to recompose the original plates. Analytical responses from XRF and SEM-EPMA, although indicative, were strongly affected by surface alteration and contamination. Rietveld analysis of neutron diffraction profiles emerged for its powerful capability to provide extensive non-destructive, high sensitivity information on bulk alloy composition and phase quantification allowing meaningful comparison among the pieces for the reconstruction of the original plates. In addition, strain and texture analyses demonstrated the capability of the technique to achieve a non-invasive characterization of manufacturing procedures. PACS 61.12.Ld; 81.40.Ef; 81.05.Bx