bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel approach for missing data recovery and fault nodes detection in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Thiyagarajan R. , Nagabhooshanam N. , Prasad K.D.V. , Poojitha P.
Published: August 2024

Ensuring data integrity in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is crucial for accurate monitoring, yet missing data due to sensor faults present a significant challenge. This research introduces an innovative approach that integrates advanced data recovery techniques with leading‐edge methods to address this issue. The system begins by identifying and isolating fault nodes using a specialized algorithm that analyzes network behavior. By applying fuzzy density‐based spatial clustering of applications with noise (FDBSCAN), potential fault nodes are precisely located based on deviations from expected patterns. Subsequently, an intelligent missing data recovery mechanism powered by bidirectional long short‐term memory (Bi‐LSTM) networks takes action. The Bi‐LSTM model is trained on existing sensor data to capture intricate patterns and dependencies, enabling accurate prediction and reconstruction of missing values caused by identified faults. The synergy between Bi‐LSTM for missing data recovery and FDBSCAN for fault node detection comprehensively addresses the missing data problem in WSNs. In missing data recovery, it demonstrates low mean absolute deviation (MAD) ranging from 0.021 to 0.13 and mean squared deviation (MSD) ranging from 0.0025 to 0.05 across various missing data ratios. Data reliability remains consistently high at 96% to 98%, even with up to 80% missing data. For fault node detection, the approach achieves precision of 95.7%, recall of 96.3%, F1‐score of 96.1%, and accuracy of 97.4%, outperforming existing techniques. The computational cost during training is noted at 5.79 h, presenting a limitation compared to other methods. This research highlights the importance of integrating fault node detection into missing data recovery mechanisms, presenting an innovative solution for the advancement of WSNs.
Med1 controls thymic T‐cell migration into lymph node through enhancer‐based Foxo1‐Klf2 transcription program
Authors: Yuan Ning , Su Yanhong , Gao Yang , Yang Biao , Zhang Tianzhe , Wang Qianhao , Zhang Dan , Shi Lin , Jiao Anjun , Lei Lei , Sun Lina , Zhang Baojun
Published: July 2024

The migration is the key step for thymic T cells to enter circulation and then lymph nodes (LNs), essential for future immune surveillance. Although promoter‐based transcriptional regulation through Foxo1, Klf2, Ccr7, and Sell regulates T‐cell migration, it remains largely unexplored whether and how enhancers are involved in this process. Here we found that the conditional deletion of Med1, a component of the mediator complex and a mediator between enhancers and RNA polymerase II, caused a reduction of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in LNs, as well as a decrease of CD8+ T cells in the spleen. Importantly, Med1 deletion hindered the migration of thymic αβT cells into the circulation and then into LNs, accompanied by the downregulation of KLF2, CCR7, and CD62L. Mechanistically, Med1 promotes Klf2 transcription by facilitating Foxo1 binding to the Klf2 enhancer. Furthermore, forced expression of Klf2 rescued Ccr7 and Sell expression, as well as αβT‐cell migration into LNs. Collectively, our study unveils a crucial role for Med1 in regulating the enhancer‐based Foxo1‐Klf2 transcriptional program and the migration of αβT cells into LNs, providing valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying T‐cell migration.
Understanding the conversion of nitrogen compounds during ammonia electrooxidation: effect of current density, chloride concentration and pH on nitrate formation
Authors: Galvão Neanderson , Dutra Achilles Junqueira Bourdot , Bassin João Paulo
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Ammonia removal from wastewater by electrooxidation (EO) is an interesting approach because of its efficiency and easy maintenance and operation. In this process, ammonia is oxidized to nitrate or nitrogen gas. Ammonia conversion to the latter is desirable to remove nitrogen from the liquid; however, the influence of several operating parameters on nitrate generation has not been systematically evaluated. Therefore, this work aimed to investigate the effect of current density (200–800 A m−2), chloride concentration (0–10 000 mg L) and initial pH (5–9) on the electrooxidation of an ammonia‐containing solution and the associated generation of nitrate. For this purpose, a laboratory‐scale electrochemical reactor containing two Ti/RuO2 electrodes was used.

RESULTS

The results indicated high ammonia removal efficiency – 98% within 150 min at 800 A m−2 and 97% within 240 min at 500 A m−2 – generating around 70 and 102 mg ‐N L−1 under these conditions, respectively. Increasing the chloride concentration from 5000 to 7500 mg L−1 reduces the electrolysis time needed to remove all ammonia from 180 to 150 min. However, with increasing initial chloride concentration, the amount of nitrate generated rose from 69.5 to 135.9 mg N L−1. On the other hand, in the test without chloride, nitrate generation was considerably lower (0–0.61 mg  L−1).

CONCLUSION

The higher the current density applied, the greater the ammonia removal by EO. Although current density influenced the ammonia oxidation rates, it did not directly affect nitrate formation. The lower the concentration of ammonia in the solution, the more significant was the fraction of nitrate generated. Most of the inlet ammonia was oxidized to nitrogen gas, nitrite was rapidly oxidized to nitrate and higher chloride concentrations enhanced ammonia oxidation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Prevalence and impact of signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders in dental students and faculty
Authors: Larkin Nathan , Fricton Vincent , Sangalli Linda , Prodoehl Janey , Fricton James
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affect individuals undergoing increased stress, for example, dental professionals. No study to date has compared dental students and faculty in TMD manifestation. This cross‐sectional study compared prevalence, risk factors, and impact on daily activities of self‐reported TMD signs/symptoms between dental students and faculty at a predoctoral dental school, and between preclinical (first‐ to second‐year) and clinical (third‐ to fourth‐year) students.

Methods

A REDCap survey was sent to dental students and faculty, assessing TMD signs/symptoms (TMD Symptom Questionnaire), pain intensity (Chronic Graded Pain Scale), jaw function (Jaw Function Limitation Scale), parafunctions (Oral Behavioral Checklist), previous TMD treatments, anxiety/depression symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire), perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale), and sleep quality (RU‐SATED Scale). Outcomes were compared between groups using chi‐square and t‐tests, adjusting for covariates with analyses of covariance (ANCOVA).

Results

Data derived from N = 145 participants (N = 108 students, N = 37 faculty). Dental students reported significantly higher prevalence (90.1% vs. 75.7%, p = 0.020) and greater number of TMD signs/symptoms (5.3 ± 3.5 vs. 3.0 ± 2.7, p < 0.001) compared to faculty. Students reported significantly more parafunctional activities (p = 0.000), jaw‐strain episodes (prolonged mouth opening, p = 0.007), higher stress level (p = 0.008), and lower sleep quality (p = 0.002) than faculty. Difference in number of TMD signs/symptoms was maintained after adjusting for stress, sleep quality, and parafunctional/jaw‐strain activities. Clinical students utilized significantly more often evidence‐based TMD treatment compared to preclinical students.

Conclusions

High prevalence of self‐reported TMD was observed among dental students and faculty, with students reporting higher prevalence and impairment despite working in the same environment. Findings underscore the importance of education on preventive measures early in dental training to address contributing factors and TMD management.
IDH2 mutation accelerates TPO‐induced myelofibrosis with enhanced S100a8/a9 and NFκB signaling in vivo
Authors: Lin Chien‐Chin , Yao Chi‐Yuan , Wang Yu‐Hung , Hsu Yueh‐Chwen , Yuan Chang‐Tsu , Chen Tsung‐Chih , Hsu Chia‐Lang , Lee Sze‐Hwei , Lee Jhih‐Yi , Shih Pin‐Tsen , Kao Chein‐Jun , Chuang Po‐Han , Kuo Yuan‐Yeh , Hou Hsin‐An , Chou Wen‐Chien , Tien Hwei‐Fang
Published: July 2024

Introduction

IDH2 mutation is an unfavorable prognostic factor in patients with primary myelofibrosis (PMF) but its effect on myelofibrosis (MF) remains largely unclear.

Methods

In this study, we aimed to elucidate the roles of IDH2 mutation in the development and progression of MF by transcriptomic and molecular techniques using the Idh2R172K transgenic mice.

Results

We found that thrombopoietin (TPO)‐overexpressed Idh2R172K (Idh2R172K + TPO) mice had accelerated progression to MF, compared with TPO‐overexpressed Idh2‐wild (WT + TPO) mice, showing activation of multiple inflammatory pathways, among which nuclear factor κB (NFκB) was the most significantly enhanced. Single‐cell transcriptomes of the marrow cells in early MF showed that S100a8/a9 expression was mainly confined to neutrophil progenitors in the WT + TPO mice, but highly expressed in several types of myeloid precursor cells, including the megakaryocyte progenitors in the Idh2R172K + TPO group. Furthermore, Idh2R172K mice at age of 18 months had larger spleens, increased S100a8/a9‐Tlr4 expression, and elevated serum S100a8/a9 levels compared with WT mice. PMF patients with IDH2 mutations had higher bone marrow plasma S100A8/A9 levels than those without IDH2 mutations.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings showed that IDH2 mutation induced proinflammatory effects, which further exacerbated MF, as evidenced by the increase in S100a8/a9 levels and NFκB hyperactivation in Idh2R172K + TPO mice.
Antiphospholipid syndrome, monoclonal gammopathy, and cryoglobulinemia overlap leading to recurrent cutaneous microvascular thrombosis: A case report and retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bohm Alexandra , Wan Bo Angela , Karin Amir , Lee Lauren J. , Lee Agnes Y. Y. , Conway Edward M. , Lai Chieh Min Benjamin
Published: July 2024

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), cryoglobulinemia, and monoclonal gammopathies are variably accompanied by thrombotic complications. We describe a patient with recurrent skin microvascular thrombosis, APS, cryoglobulinemia, marginal zone lymphoma, and IgMκ monoclonal gammopathy, responsive to chemoimmunotherapy. The cryoglobulin fraction contained the IgMκ paraprotein, while antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) were predominantly in the cryosupernatant. A retrospective analysis of aPL‐positive patients in our institution showed that 8.1% co‐expressed monoclonal gammopathy. These overlap patients had thrombotic complications and most had recurrences. Patients with multiple gammopathies of thrombotic significance may have several autoantibodies and constitute a high‐risk group.
Internal governance challenges of young independent coffee cooperatives in south‐west Ethiopia
Authors: Mswaka Walter , Snell Matthew , Wood Adrian
Published: August 2024

This study analyses the internal governance practices of coffee marketing cooperatives in south‐west Ethiopia. The investigation argues that there is a need to go beyond democratic governance practices in order to understand the governance of these cooperatives working in multi‐stakeholder environments where the state is powerful and intervenes in their operations. The study concludes that the actions of internal and external actors have resulted in unique governance structures that profoundly influence their operations.
Crop mapping and quantitative evaluation of cultivated land use intensity in Shandong Province, 2018–2022
Authors: Zhao Jinchang , Sun Xiaofang , Wang Meng , Li Guicai , Hou Xuehui
Published: August 2024

Industrialization and urbanization have intensified land‐use pressures on agroecosystems. Monitoring cultivated land use intensity (CLUI) is crucial for implementing sustainable agriculture. However, current agroecosystem management in Shandong Province lacks high‐resolution CLUI information. To address this gap, this study measured and analyzed CLUI at a 1‐km scale in Shandong Province from 2018 to 2022, using self‐produced crop maps and the human appropriation of net primary production (HANPP) framework. The spatial autocorrelation model was used to analyze the spatiotemporal pattern and aggregation characteristics of cultivated land use intensity. The influencing factors of CLUI were analyzed using the propensity score matching method, which helps reduce the interference of confounding factors. The results are as follows: (1) The wheat‐maize planting pattern in Shandong Province has remained relatively stable, with a notable trend toward intensified cultivation in the western region. (2) CLUI exhibited notable spatial and temporal heterogeneity, with low and medium values predominantly located in the western region. CLUI increased from 1.13 to 1.24, exceeding the global average of 0.84. (3) CLUI showed significant spatial aggregation characteristics. In 2018, 2020, and 2022, the western region was mainly characterized by high‐high and high‐low types. In 2019 and 2021, it was mainly characterized by the low‐low type, with less prevalence of low‐high type. The center of gravity of high‐high and low‐high types shifted southwest, whereas that of high‐low and low‐low types shifted northeast. (4) Chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and plastic mulch exhibited significant positive correlations with CLUI, whereas temperature and precipitation showed significant negative correlations. Favorable natural conditions can mitigate human interference, leading to lower CLUI.
Light Field Transformation of Metasurface Based on Arbitrary Jones Matrix
Authors: Zhang Xiaotong , Li Xin , Zhang Shifei , Zhao Ruizhe , Wang Yiqun , Chen Chen , Wang Yongtian , Huang Lingling
Published: July 2024

Metasurfaces are ultra‐thin micro‐nano elements, have abundant freedoms, and are widely used in light field transformation. The Jones matrix of single‐layer birefringent metasurfaces have at most 6 degrees of freedom, which limits the richness and diversity of light field transformation. Bilayer metasurfaces have more design channels and functionality than single‐layer metasurfaces. By mathematical derivation, the decomposition method of the bilayer metasurface unitary Jones matrix is provided. Further, inspired by double‐phase holography, arbitrary complex Jones matrix is decomposed and realized by bilayer metasurface and achieves analytical decoupling of all 4 complex components of the Jones matrix. As the theoretical verification, spin‐orbit angular momentum mapping and four‐channel complex holography are realized by the bilayer metasurface. The decomposition method is completely analytical, universal, and easy to implement. It is of great significance for the transformation of light field, information transmission, and optical encryption based on metasurfaces.
The role of mesenchymal stem cells in cancer and prospects for their use in cancer therapeutics
Authors: Tang Jian , Chen Yu , Wang Chunhua , Xia Ying , Yu Tingyu , Tang Mengjun , Meng Kun , Yin Lijuan , Yang Yang , Shen Liang , Xing Hui , Mao Xiaogang
Published: July 2024

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are recruited by malignant tumor cells to the tumor microenvironment (TME) and play a crucial role in the initiation and progression of malignant tumors. This role encompasses immune evasion, promotion of angiogenesis, stimulation of cancer cell proliferation, correlation with cancer stem cells, multilineage differentiation within the TME, and development of treatment resistance. Simultaneously, extensive research is exploring the homing effect of MSCs and MSC‐derived extracellular vesicles (MSCs‐EVs) in tumors, aiming to design them as carriers for antitumor substances. These substances are targeted to deliver antitumor drugs to enhance drug efficacy while reducing drug toxicity. This paper provides a review of the supportive role of MSCs in tumor progression and the associated molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we summarize the latest therapeutic strategies involving engineered MSCs and MSCs‐EVs in cancer treatment, including their utilization as carriers for gene therapeutic agents, chemotherapeutics, and oncolytic viruses. We also discuss the distribution and clearance of MSCs and MSCs‐EVs upon entry into the body to elucidate the potential of targeted therapies based on MSCs and MSCs‐EVs in cancer treatment, along with the challenges they face.
Development of potent pan‐coronavirus fusion inhibitors with a new design strategy
Authors: Zhu Yuanmei , Gao Zhongcai , Feng Xiaoli , Cheng Lin , Liu Nian , Liu Chao , Han Shaowei , Yang Qiaojiang , Zou Qingcui , Chong Huihui , Zhang Zheng , Li Minghua , Song Gengshen , He Yuxian
Published: July 2024

Development of potent and broad‐spectrum drugs against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) remains one of the top priorities, especially in the cases of the emergence of mutant viruses and inability of current vaccines to prevent viral transmission. In this study, we have generated a novel membrane fusion‐inhibitory lipopeptide IPB29, which is currently under clinical trials; herein, we report its design strategy and preclinical data. First, we surprisingly found that IPB29 with a rigid linker between the peptide sequence and lipid molecule had greatly improved α‐helical structure and antiviral activity. Second, IPB29 potently inhibited a large panel of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants including the previously and currently circulating viruses, such as Omicron XBB.5.1 and EG.5.1. Third, IPB29 could also cross‐neutralize the bat‐ and pangolin‐isolated SARS‐CoV‐2‐related CoVs (RatG13, PCoV‐GD, and PCoV‐GX) and other human CoVs (SARS‐CoV, MERS‐CoV, HCoV‐NL63, and HCoV‐229E). Fourth, IPB29 administrated as an inhalation solution (IPB29‐IS) in Syrian hamsters exhibited high therapeutic and preventive efficacies against SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta or Omicron variant. Fifth, the pharmacokinetic profiles and safety pharmacology of IPB29‐IS were extensively characterized, providing data to support its evaluation in humans. In conclusion, our studies have demonstrated a novel design strategy for viral fusion inhibitors and offered an ideal drug candidate against SARS‐CoV‐2 and other coronaviruses.
Antibody–drug conjugates in cancer therapy: mechanisms and clinical studies
Authors: He Jun , Zeng Xianghua , Wang Chunmei , Wang Enwen , Li Yongsheng
Published: July 2024

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) consist of monoclonal antibodies that target tumor cells and cytotoxic drugs linked through linkers. By leveraging antibodies’ targeting properties, ADCs deliver cytotoxic drugs into tumor cells via endocytosis after identifying the tumor antigen. This precise method aims to kill tumor cells selectively while minimizing harm to normal cells, offering safe and effective therapeutic benefits. Recent years have seen significant progress in antitumor treatment with ADC development, providing patients with new and potent treatment options. With over 300 ADCs explored for various tumor indications and some already approved for clinical use, challenges such as resistance due to factors like antigen expression, ADC processing, and payload have emerged. This review aims to outline the history of ADC development, their structure, mechanism of action, recent composition advancements, target selection, completed and ongoing clinical trials, resistance mechanisms, and intervention strategies. Additionally, it will delve into the potential of ADCs with novel markers, linkers, payloads, and innovative action mechanisms to enhance cancer treatment options. The evolution of ADCs has also led to the emergence of combination therapy as a new therapeutic approach to improve drug efficacy.
An optimization‐based Monte Carlo method for estimating the two‐terminal survival signature of networks with two component classes
Authors: Lopes da Silva Daniel B. , Sullivan Kelly M.
Published: July 2024

Evaluating two‐terminal network reliability is a classical problem with numerous applications. Because this problem is ‐Complete, practical studies involving large systems commonly resort to approximating or estimating system reliability rather than evaluating it exactly. Researchers have characterized signatures, such as the destruction spectrum and survival signature, which summarize the system's structure and give rise to procedures for evaluating or approximating network reliability. These procedures are advantageous if the signature can be computed efficiently; however, computing the signature is challenging for complex systems. With this motivation, we consider the use of Monte Carlo (MC) simulation to estimate the survival signature of a two‐terminal network in which there are two classes of i.i.d. components. In this setting, we prove that each MC replication to estimate the signature of a multi‐class system entails solving a multi‐objective maximum capacity path problem. For the case of two classes of components, we adapt a Dijkstra's‐like bi‐objective shortest path algorithm from the literature for the purpose of solving the resulting bi‐objective maximum capacity path problem. We perform computational experiments to compare our method's efficiency against intuitive benchmark approaches. Our computational results demonstrate that the bi‐objective optimization approach consistently outperforms the benchmark approaches, thereby enabling a larger number of MC replications and improved accuracy of the reliability estimation. Furthermore, the efficiency gains versus benchmark approaches appear to become more significant as the network increases in size.
A dynamic programming algorithm for order picking in robotic mobile fulfillment systems
Authors: Justkowiak Jan‐Erik , Kovalyov Mikhail Y. , Pesch Erwin
Published: July 2024

The order scheduling and rack sequencing problem deals with the order picking process in robotic mobile fulfillment systems: automated guided vehicles lift and transport movable storage racks to picking stations to supply items requested by customer orders which are put together in cardboard boxes on a workbench of limited capacity. To efficiently operate the station, the sequence in which racks visit the station one after another and the intervals at which customer orders are scheduled must be coordinated. We present a dynamic programming algorithm for the order scheduling and rack sequencing problem at a single picking station minimizing the number of rack visits. Despite monolithic mixed integer linear programming formulations, our approach appears to be the first combinatorial solution method for the problem in literature. A computational study demonstrates the effectiveness of the approach.
Urban residents' knowledge of and attitudes and willingness to control woody invasive alien plants in their domestic gardens in South Africa
Authors: Seboko T. , Shackleton C. M. , Ruwanza S.
Published: August 2024

Invasive alien species are considered a major contributor to biodiversity loss. Yet, many are favoured for particular ecosystem services that they provide. This is often so in urban environments experiencing rapid environmental and social change and land transformation. Public support is viewed as critical for invasive alien species prevention and management. Furthermore, it is assumed that local citizens are more likely to be willing and ready to engage if they are informed about the costs and benefits associated with invasive alien species. However, the use of, and attitudes towards, invasive alien species in urban areas is poorly understood, especially regarding urban gardens under private ownership and control. This lack of understanding is likely to compromise potential management interventions.

Here, we report on a survey of 240 people across 12 small towns in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa to determine their knowledge and perceptions regarding woody invasive alien plants (IAPs), their willingness to engage in control and how these vary in relation to respondent attributes.

The findings indicated that respondents have low levels of knowledge about woody IAPs despite 84% of them having at least one woody IAP species in their garden. Nineteen different woody IAPs were noted across the sample of 240 households. A wide range of ecosystem services and disservices from woody IAPs were mentioned. Because of the benefits provided, or the effort required to remove them, only 56% of respondents were willing to have the woody IAPs removed from their gardens, with most considering it the responsibility of government agencies to do so. There was a positive association between the levels of education, income, and the impression that woody IAPs pose a problem and being aware of the term, but not willingness to remove them.

Synthesis and implications. These results reveal the complex relationship that urban citizens have with IAPs in garden settings, and for authorities to consider appropriate and targeted awareness campaigns if control strategies are to be successful.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes doped with Phytocompounds of Centella asiatica for food packing applications and their anti‐microbial properties
Authors: Sivakumar Santhini , Hema T. A.
Published: July 2024

Centella asiatica phytocompounds coated onto Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotube (MWCNT) possessing antibacterial activity were prepared using a simple physical absorption method. The incorporation of Centella asiatica phytocompounds into functionalized MWCNTs could improve the physical properties of Centella asiatica phytocompounds conjugated MWCNT compared to pure MWCNT. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) results depict the presence of bioactive compounds on MWCNT coatings and the Raman spectrum confirms the presence of carbon in various ranges by their peaks from 636 to 1594.46 cm−1 in the MWCNT. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) micrograph images confirmed the existence of MWCNT‐Nano composites with Centella asiatica phytocompounds exhibiting the surface structure with pore clarity and visible pipes. Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) images show the uniform dispersed spherical ultrathin nanosheets at the size of 10–20 nm. Further anti‐bacterial analysis results revealed that Centella asiatica phytocompounds coating enhances the anti‐bacterial activity of MWCNT. Prepared Centella asiatica phytocompounds ‐MWCNT possess maximal inhibition and produces high zones of inhibition 11 ± 0.06, 17 ± 0.08, 14 ± 0.07, and 16 ± 0.08 mm against four food‐spoiling bacterial clinical pathogens Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia respectively. Centella asiatica phytocompounds conjugated‐MWCNT spin‐coated packaging showed good preservation properties. Centella asiatica phytocompounds conjugated with MWCNTs provide antimicrobial properties, enabling the development of novel food packaging materials that can protect food from spoilage, increase food stability, and sustainability, and improve the shelf life of food.
Spatial metabolomics method to reveal the differences in chemical composition of raw and honey‐fried Stemona tuberosa Lour. by using UPLC‐Orbitrap Fusion MS and desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Xiong Haixuan , Sun Shuding , Zhang Weiwei , Zhao Di , Liu Xuefang , Tian Yange , Feng Suxiang
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Stemona tuberosa Lour. (ST) is a significant traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) renowned for its antitussive and insecticidal properties. ST is commonly subjected to processing in clinical practice before being utilized as a medicinal substance. Currently, the customary technique for processing ST is honey‐fried. Nevertheless, the specific variations in chemical constituents of ST before and after honey‐fried remain unclear.

Objective

This work aimed to analyze the variations in chemical constituents of ST before and after honey‐fried and to study the distribution of differential markers in the roots.

Methods

UPLC‐Orbitrap Fusion MS combined with molecular network analysis was used to analyze the metabolome of ST and honey‐fried ST (HST) and to screen the differential metabolites by multivariate statistical analysis. Spatial metabolomics was applied to study the distribution of differential metabolites by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI‐MSI).

Results

The ST and HST exhibited notable disparities, with 56 and 61 chemical constituents found from each, respectively. After processing, the types of alkaloids decreased, and 12 differential metabolites were screened from the common compounds. The notable component variations were epibisdehydro‐tuberostemonine J, neostenine, tuberostemonine, croomine, neotuberostemonine, and so forth. MSI visualized the spatial distribution of differential metabolites.

Conclusions

Our research provided a rapid and effective visualization method for the identification and spatial distribution of metabolites in ST. Compared with the traditional method, this method offered more convincing data supporting the processing mechanism investigations of Stemona tuberosa from a macroscopic perspective.
Effect of spandex linear density and twist multiplier on the properties of core spun yarn and denim fabric
Authors: Hassan Md. Nahid , Rokonuzzaman Md. , Razzaque Abdur , Rahim Md. Abdur , Hossain Alimran , Islam Tarikul
Published: July 2024

The utilization of core‐spun yarns with spandex has achieved significant interest over the past decade because of their exceptional stretchability, resilience, and comfort features. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of changing the spandex denier and twist multiplier on the physio‐mechanical properties of 16 Ne core spun yarn and the produced denim fabric using these yarns as weft. Core‐spun yarns were produced from three different spandex deniers at various TM values, where cotton roving was used as the sheath. Fabrics were manufactured using an air‐jet weaving machine with the core spun yarn as weft and 100% ring cotton yarn as warp (12 Ne) following the identical 3/1 twill weave pattern. Results reveal that using different spandex percentages shows better results at different TM parameters. Both yarn and fabric were attained at a twist multiplier of 5.0, 5.5, and 6.0 for 40, 70, and 105 D, respectively. Additionally, it was discovered that the yarn produced using lower spandex denier gives higher tenacity for yarn and fabric. However, the yarn produced using a higher spandex denier gives higher elongation percentage for yarn, higher tear strength, recovery, and lower growth percentage fabric.

Highlights

Influence of spandex denier and twist multiplier on the physio‐mechanical properties of core‐spun yarn and the resulting denim fabric.

The higher spandex denier exhibited greater tear strength, better recovery, and lower fabric growth percentages.

Increasing the twist multiplier initially increased the tenacity and elongation percentage of yarns and fabrics, followed by a decrease.

Higher spandex percentages reduced hairiness and increased with higher twist levels.

Higher spandex denier indicates the need for tailored TM settings based on spandex denier to achieve desired fabric properties.
Influence of chemical treatment of fly ash on mechanical, thermal, and water absorption characteristics of PS/SBC nanocomposite
Authors: Rabbi Md. Sanaul , Rahman Tauhidur , Roshid M. M. , Siddiqui M. A. Shadab
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effective chemical treatment of fly Ash (FA) that affects the mechanical, thermal, and water absorption capabilities of polystyrene/styrene‐butadiene‐copolymer (PS/SBC) nanocomposites. NaOH, H2SO4 and distilled water have been employed to conduct the chemical treatment. Specimens have been prepared using injection molding technique. In order to evaluate the mechanical properties of the material, tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness tests were carried out. thermo‐gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) were employed to gain an understanding of the thermal behavior of the material. Furthermore, to determine the moisture resistance, water absorption experiments were conducted. Experimental results show that, alkali‐treated FA (AL‐FA) demonstrated the maximum values with an ultimate tensile strength of 26.68 MPa, acid‐treated FA (AC‐FA) composite exhibiting the highest flexural strength at 5 MPa whereas water‐treated FA (WA‐FA) composite led to better impact strength of 17.6 kJ/m2. TGA revealed that WA‐FA and AL‐FA composites experienced an 80% reduction in weight at 500°C, while AC‐FA composites exhibited weight reductions of 90%. The significance of treatment methods in interfacial interactions between the polymer and FA has been studied through morphological analysis. These findings provide valuable insights that can be applied to future research and industrial applications in the field of sustainable materials engineering.

Highlights

Polystyrene/Styrene‐Butadiene‐Copolymer composites were prepared with Fly ash (FA) filler.

FA pre‐treated by NaOH (AL‐FA), H2SO4 (AC‐FA) and distilled water (WA‐FA).

Injection molding technique was employed to prepare the ASTM standard samples.

WA‐FA composite exhibited the highest ductility but lower tensile strength.

TGA revealed that AC‐FA composites exhibited weight reductions of 90%.
Fabrication and manipulation of hierarchically porous PEEK membranes based on crystallization‐induced phase segregation and sea‐island structures
Authors: Cheng Xiong , Wang Jiayao , Ding Mingming , Yang Yong‐Biao , Bae Joonho
Published: July 2024

Poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) is a premier engineering plastic, which has gained considerable attention in recent years. Our prior research investigated crystallization template techniques and pore formation mechanisms within the PEEK/poly (ether imide) system, paving the way for the development of hierarchically porous membranes (HPMs). Compared to single‐porous membranes, HPMs demonstrate enhanced flux and high mass transfer efficiency simultaneously, effectively mitigating the trade‐off effects. In this study, we focused on fabricating PEEK HPMs through precise manipulation of a polymer ternary blend system. The meticulous tuning enables intricate control of the hierarchical pore morphology of PEEK at two distinct scales. The finite element simulations not only underscored the crucial role of hierarchical pores in bolstering separation efficiency, but also exhibited strong concordance with the experimental findings. This study provides guidance for future optimization of HPMs with superior separation performance.
Thermodynamic Properties of Regular Phantom Black Hole
Authors: Haditale Maryam , Malekolkalami Behrooz
Published: July 2024

The Regular Phantom Black Hole (RPBH)s are of theoretical and observational importance, some of their properties have been studied. In this work, some of thermodynamical properties such as entropy, temperature, etc., in three background cases, that is, flat, de–Sitter (dS) and Anti–de Sitter (AdS) are studied. Many of the RPBH properties, including horizon radius, are (directly or indirectly) dependent on a scale parameter . Due to the slightly different structure from Schwarzschild—like metrics, the method to express relations between thermodynamical variables requires a new function of the scale parameter. The local and global stability through the Heat Capacity (HC) and Gibbs free Energy (GE), respectively are also treated. In the AdS case, the regularized metric allows a Hawking‐Page like phase transition of first order. The calculations and graphs show the results in the flat background, are very similar to Schwarzschild black hole and the asymptotically AdS RPBH is more compatible with physical laws than the dS and flat backgrounds.
Strategies of invasive snail Pomacea canaliculata during hibernation in rice fields of south China: effects of body size, sex, and soil depth
Authors: Yao Fucheng , Chen Yingtong , Liu Jimin , Zhang Jiaen , Xiao Zeheng , Shi Zhaoji , Chen Qi , Qin Zhong
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The invasive freshwater snail Pomacea canaliculata is an agricultural pest with a certain level of tolerance to abiotic stress. After the harvest of late rice, the snails usually burrow themselves into the soil surface layers to overwinter and pose a renewed threat to rice production in the following year. Revealing the response of snails to environmental stresses is crucial for developing countermeasures to control their damage and spread.

RESULTS

In this study, we conducted a 120‐day in situ experiment during the winter to investigate the survival and physiological changes of hibernating snails in 0‐5 and 5‐10 cm soil depths, aiming to explore their overwintering strategies. Our results showed that 73.61%, 87.50%, and 90.28% of male, female, and juvenile snails survived after hibernation for 120 days in 0–10 cm soil depth, respectively. The differences in survival rates based on sex and size of snails potentially reflect the countermeasures of snails to rapidly reproduce after hibernation. Simultaneously, the hibernating snails exhibited the ability to maintain a certain level of body weight. During this period, the snails increased their antioxidant enzyme activities to cope with oxidative stress, and enhanced their lipid storage. The hibernation survival of snails was not significantly affected by different soil depths, indicating that they have the potential to hibernate into deeper soils. Furthermore, snails were capable of increasing their contents of bound water and glycerol to cope with sudden cold spells during hibernation.

CONCLUSION

Our findings emphasize the adaptive changes of P. canaliculata snails overwintering in paddy soils. In future studies, the vulnerabilities of P. canaliculata during hibernation (e.g. shell characteristics, nutrient reserves, and dehydration tolerance, etc.,) should be investigated to develop effective control methods for this period. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ruthenium‐Based Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction: from Nanoparticles to Single Atoms
Authors: Li Yanqiang , Liu Xuan , Xu Junlong , Chen Siru
Published: July 2024

Benefiting from similar hydrogen bonding energy to Pt and much lower price compare with Pt, Ru based catalysts are promising candidates for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The catalytic activity of Ru nanoparticles can be enhanced through improving their dispersion by using different supports, and the strong metal supports interaction can further regulate their catalytic performance. In addition, single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with almost 100% atomic utilization attract great attention and the coordinative atmosphere of single atoms can be adjusted by supports. Moreover, the syngenetic effects of nanoparticles and single atoms can further improve the catalytic performance of Ru based catalysts. In this review, the progress of Ru based HER electrocatalysts are summarized according to their existing forms, including nanoparticles (NPs), single atoms (SAs) and the combination of both NPs and SAs. The common supports such as carbon materials, metal oxides, metal phosphides and metal sulfides are classified to clarify the metal supports interaction and coordinative atmosphere of Ru active centers. Especially, the possible catalytic mechanisms and the reasons for the improved catalytic performance are discussed from both experimental results and theoretical calculations. Finally, some challenges and opportunities are prospected to facilitate the development of Ru based catalysts for HER.
Minimizing Undesired Side Reactions Induced by Nanoscale Conductive Carbon Enables Stable Cycling of Semi‐Solid Li‐Ion Full Batteries
Authors: Chen Hongli , Wang Yong , Meng Dechao , Zhu Yingying , He Yu‐Shi , Ma Zi‐Feng , Li Linsen
Published: July 2024

Semi‐solid lithium‐ion batteries (SSLIBs) based on “slurry‐like” electrodes hold great promise to enable low‐cost and sustainable energy storage. However, the development of the SSLIBs has long been hindered by the lack of high‐performance anodes. Here the origin of low initial Coulombic efficiency (iCE, typically <60%) is elucidated in the graphite‐based semi‐solid anodes (in the non‐flowing mode) and develop rational strategies to minimize the irreversible capacity loss. It is discovered that Ketjen black (KB), a nanoscale conductive additive widely used in SSLIB research, induces severe electrolyte decomposition during battery charge due to its large surface area and abundant surface defects. High iCEs up to 92% are achieved for the semi‐solid graphite anodes by replacing KB with other low surface‐area, low‐defect conductive additives. A semi‐solid full battery (LiFePO4 vs graphite, in the non‐flowing mode) is further demonstrated with stable cycle performance over 100 cycles at a large areal capacity of 6 mAh cm−2 and a pouch‐type semi‐solid full cell that remains functional even when it is mechanically abused. This work demystifies the SSLIBs and provides useful physical insights to further improve their performance and durability.
Anisotropic Superhydrophobic Properties Replicated from Leek Leaves
Authors: Mirmohammadi Seyed Mehran , Shirazi Hamidreza Daghigh , Heikkilä Miika , Franssila Sami , Vapaavuori Jaana , Jokinen Ville
Published: July 2024

A bio‐inspired approach to fabricate robust superhydrophobic (SHB) surfaces with anisotropic properties replicated from a leek leaf is presented. The polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) replica surfaces exhibit anisotropic wetting, anti‐icing, and light scattering properties due to microgrooves replicated from leek leaves. Superhydrophobicity is achieved by a novel modified candle soot (CS) coating that mimics leek's epicuticular wax. The resulting surfaces show a contact angle (CA) difference of ≈30° in the directions perpendicular and parallel to the grooves, which is similar to the anisotropic properties of the original leek leaf. The coated replica is durable, withstanding cyclic bending tests (up to 10 000 cycles) and mechanical sand abrasion (up to 60 g of sand). The coated replica shows low ice adhesion (10 kPa) after the first cycle; and then, increases to ≈70 kPa after ten icing–shearing cycles; while, anisotropy in ice adhesion becomes more evident with more cycles. In addition, the candle soot‐coated positive replica (CS‐coated PR) demonstrates a transmittance of ≈73% and a haze of ≈65% at the wavelength of 550 nm. The results show that the properties depend on the replicated surface features of the leek leaf, which means that the leek leaf appears to be a highly useful template for bioinspired surfaces.
The Synergistic Effect of Aramid Nanofibers and Carbon Nanotubes on Micro‐Silicon Anodes for Improved Stability and Conductivity
Authors: Liu Qingqing , Wei Xiao , Yang Chen , Xu Changhaoyue , Cai Wenlong , Chen Feng
Published: July 2024

Despite the continuous development of energy storage, the challenges faced by micro‐silicon anode pulverization have yet to be effectively addressed. In this work, the aramid nanofibers (ANFs) are in situ protonated on the surface of silicon micro‐particles (SMPs), and also act as surfactants to bundle the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to form ANF/CNT networks on SMPs (ANF/CNT/SMPs) at the same time. The results demonstrate that the dual‐coating not only inhibits expansion and enhances structural stability but also improves conductivity, thereby promoting the cycling stability of micro‐silicon anodes. The ANF/CNT/SMP anode shows cycling stability of 454 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 after 200 cycles. The expansion in thickness of the ANF/CNT/SMP electrode can be reduced by 51.5% after 100 cycles compared with the SMP electrode. The findings provide a novel approach for mitigating expansion in micro‐silicon anodes through the combined coating of ANFs and CNTs.
Highly Efficient Laser Bidirectional Graphene Printing: Integration of Synthesis, Transfer and Patterning
Authors: Li Yunfan , Zeng Ziran , Zhang Shizhuo , Guo Dingyi , Li Peilong , Chen Xiao , Yi Longju , Zheng Huai , Liu Sheng , Liu Feng
Published: July 2024

Graphene has tremendous potential in future electronics due to its superior force, electrical, and thermal properties. However, the development of graphene devices is limited by its complex, high‐cost, and low‐efficiency preparation process. This study proposes a novel laser bidirectional graphene printing (LBGP) process for the large‐scale preparation of patterned graphene films. In LBGP, a sandwich sample composed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) substrate, carbon precursor powder, and a glass cover is irradiated by a nanosecond pulsed laser. The laser photothermal effect converts the carbon precursor into graphene, with partial graphene sheets deposited directly on the TPE substrate and the remaining transferred to the glass cover via a laser‐induced plasma plume. This method simultaneously prepares two face‐to‐face graphene films in a single laser irradiation, integrating synthesis, transfer, and patterning. The resulting graphene patterns demonstrate good performance in flexible pressure sensing and Joule heating, showcasing high sensitivity (7.7 kPa−1), fast response (37 ms), and good cycling stability (2000 cycles) for sensors, and high heating rate (1 °C s−1) and long‐term stability (3000 s) for heaters. It is believed that the simple, low‐cost, and efficient LBGP process can promote the development of graphene electronics and laser manufacturing processes.
Reverse‐Selective Anion Separation Relies on Charged “Hourglass” Gate
Authors: Wu Bin , Yan Yunfei , Chu Xiaorui , Miao Jibin , Ge Qianqian , Lin Xiaocheng , Ge Liang , Qian Jiasheng
Published: July 2024

According to the hydration size and charge property of separated ions, the transport channel can be constructed to achieve precision ion separation, but the ion geometry as a separation parameter to design the channel structure is rarely reported. Herein, a reverse‐selective anion separation membrane composed of a metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) layer with a charged “hourglass” channel as an ion‐selective switch to manipulate oxoanion transport is developed. The gate in “hourglass” with tetrahedral geometry similar to the oxoanion (such as SO2‐ 4, Cr 2O2‐ 7, and MnO‐ 4) boosts the transmission effect oxoanion much larger than Cl− through geometric matching and Coulomb interaction. Specific channel structure exhibits an abnormal selectivity for SO2‐ 4/Cl− of 20, Cr 2O2‐ 7/Cl− of 6.6, and MnO‐ 4/Cl− of 4.0 in a binary‐ion system. The transfer behavior of SO2‐ 4 in the channel revealed by molecular dynamics simulation and density functional theory calculation further indicates the mechanism of the abnormal separation performance. The universality of the membrane structure is validated by the formation of different nitrogen‐containing modified layers, which also achieves in situ growth of the MOFs layer, and exhibits similar reversal separation performance. The geometric configuration control of ion transport channels presents a novel effective strategy to realize the precise separation of target ions.