bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Astrocytes Mediate Psychostimulant‐Induced Alterations of Spike‐Timing Dependent Synaptic Plasticity
Authors: Alberquilla Samuel , Nanclares Carmen , Expósito Sara , Gall Grace , Kofuji Paulo , Araque Alfonso , Martín Eduardo D. , Moratalla Rosario
Published: January 2025

At cellular and circuit levels, drug addiction is considered a dysregulation of synaptic plasticity. In addition, dysfunction of the glutamate transporter 1 (GLT‐1) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) has also been proposed as a mechanism underlying drug addiction. However, the cellular and synaptic impact of GLT‐1 alterations in the NAc remain unclear. Here we show in the NAc that 10 days withdraw after 5 days treatment with cocaine or amphetamine decreases GLT‐1 expression in astrocytes, which results in the prolongation of the excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) decay kinetics in D1 receptor‐containing medium spiny neurons (D1R‐MSNs). Using the spike timing dependent plasticity (STDP) paradigm, we found that enlargement of EPSP duration results in switching the LTP elicited in control animals to LTD in psychostimulant‐treated mice. In contrast to D1‐MSNs, D2‐MSNs did not display changes in EPSP kinetics and synaptic plasticity. Notably, the psychostimulant‐induced synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity effects were absent in IP3R2−/− mice, which lack astrocyte calcium signal, but were mimicked by the selective astrocytes stimulation with DREADDs. Finally, ceftriaxone, which upregulates GLT‐1, restored normal GLT‐1 function, EPSP kinetics, and synaptic plasticity in psychostimulant‐treated mice. Therefore, we propose that cocaine and amphetamine increase dopaminergic levels in the NAc, which stimulates astrocytes and downregulates the GLT‐1. The decreased GLT‐1 function prolonged the EPSP kinetics, leading to the modulation of the STDP, transforming the LTP observed in control animals into LTD in psychostimulant‐treated mice. Present work reveals a novel mechanism underlying the synaptic plasticity changes induced by these drugs of abuse.
Caregiver Psychosocial Factors & Stroke Survivor Cognitive Outcomes: A REGARDS‐CARES Cohort Study
Authors: Blake Jason A. , Long D. Leann , Knight Amy J. , Goodin Burel R. , Crowe Michael , Judd Suzanne E. , Rhodes J. David , Clay Olivio J.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Caring for an individual with cognitive impairment carries a physical, mental, and emotional toll. This manuscript examines the relationship between caregiver psychosocial measures and longitudinal cognitive outcomes of stroke survivors, as well as analyzing the psychosocial factors as moderators of stroke severity and cognition.

Methods

This analysis was conducted on caregiver and stroke survivor dyads (n = 157) that participated in the Caring for Adults Recovering from the Effects of Stroke (CARES) project, an ancillary study of the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) national cohort study. Stroke severity at hospitalization discharge was included as the primary predictor of cognitive outcomes and caregiver psychosocial factors were included as additional predictors. Cognition was assessed biennially and measured the domains of learning, memory, and executive functioning. Individual mixed‐effect models included each psychosocial factor and were covariate‐adjusted for pre‐stroke cognitive scores and demographic variables. Caregiver psychosocial factors included caregiver strain, depressive symptoms, life and leisure time satisfaction, and overall quality of life.

Results

Decreased caregiver strain (b = −0.230, 95% CI: −0.39 to −0.07; p = 0.006) and increased leisure time satisfaction (b = 0.045, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.08; p = 0.005) were both found to be significant predictors, alongside stroke severity (b = −0.137, 95% CI: −0.22 to −0.05; p = 0.002), of better stroke survivor cognition overall. No variables were found to be moderating factors of the relationship between stroke severity and cognition.

Conclusions

Understanding the caregiver psychosocial factors that predict stroke outcomes will help clinicians to identify stroke survivor and caregiver dyads at higher risk for worst longitudinal cognitive outcomes following stroke.
Monitoring of Temporal and Spatial Variation of Water Quality in Agricultural Reservoir During Summer
Authors: Kim Ui‐Seok , Byeon Sangdon , Hong Eun‐Mi
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the spatiotemporal dynamics of water quality in a small‐scale agricultural reservoir, the Bangok Reservoir, during the summer. The study is motivated by the increasing importance of preserving river ecosystems, ensuring irrigation water quality and expanding agricultural water use. Seven water quality parameters were monitored at multiple points from July to October 2020, and Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to understand their spatial relationships. The results revealed that the Bangok Reservoir had reached a hypertrophic state, indicating excessive nutrient levels. While heavy rainfall and dilution effects posed challenges for accurate analysis, significant correlations were observed between chlorophyll‐a and total phosphorus, as well as between dissolved oxygen and pH. The trophic state index of Korea (TSIKO) indicated conditions favourable for algal growth due to phosphorus abundance. Higher concentrations of pollutants were found upstream, which was likely attributed to the inflow of livestock manure during rainfall and shallow water mixing. The study recommends the implementation of algae removal and reduction facilities in the upstream areas of the reservoir. These findings provide essential data for ongoing research on water quality in small‐scale agricultural reservoirs and emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring for better environmental management.
Filling the Gap in LogP$$ LogP $$ and pKa$$ {pK}_a $$ Evaluation for Saturated Fluorine‐Containing Derivatives With Machine Learning
Authors: Gurbych Oleksandr , Pavliuk Petro , Krasnienkov Dmytro , Liashuk Oleksandr , Melnykov Kostiantyn , Grygorenko Oleksandr O.
Published: January 2025

Lipophilicity and acidity/basicity are fundamental physical properties that profoundly affect the compound's pharmacological activity, bioavailability, metabolism, and toxicity. Predicting lipophilicity, measured by (1‐octanol–water distribution coefficient logarithm), and acidity/basicity, measured by (negative of acid ionization constant logarithm), is essential for early drug discovery success. However, the limited availability of experimental data and poor accuracy of standard and assessment methods for saturated fluorine‐containing derivatives pose a significant challenge to achieving satisfactory results for this compound class. To overcome this challenge, we compiled a unique dataset of saturated fluorinated and corresponding non‐fluorinated derivatives with and experimental values. Aiming to create an optimal approach to acidity/basicity and lipophilicity prediction, we evaluated, trained from scratch, or fine‐tuned more than 40 machine learning models, including linear, tree‐based, and neural networks. The study was supplemented with a substructure mask explanation (SME), which confirmed the critical role of the fluorinated substituents on both physicochemical properties studied and testified to the consistency of the developed models. The results were open‐sourced as a GitHub repository, pip, conda packages, and a KNIME node, allowing the public to perform the targeted molecular design of the proposed class of compounds.
Suitability of Available Interatomic Potentials for Sn to Model Its 2D Allotropes
Authors: Maździarz Marcin
Published: January 2025

The suitability of a range of interatomic potentials for elemental tin was evaluated in order to identify an appropriate potential for modeling the stanene (2D tin) allotropes. Structural and mechanical features of the flat (F), low‐buckled (LB), high‐buckled (HB), full dumbbell (FD), trigonal dumbbell (TD), honeycomb dumbbell (HD), and large honeycomb dumbbell (LHD) monolayer tin (stanene) phases, were gained by means of the density functional theory (DFT) and molecular statics (MS) calculations with ten different Tersoff, modified embedded atom method (MEAM), and machine‐learning‐based (ML‐IAP) interatomic potentials. A systematic quantitative comparison and discussion of the results is reported.
Assessment of DFT Functionals for Structural Determination of Lanthanide(III) Complexes Using Ligand Field Splitting
Authors: Blois Lucca , Moura Renaldo T. , Longo Ricardo L. , Malta Oscar L. , Brito Hermi F. , Carneiro Neto Albano N.
Published: January 2025

Lanthanide (Ln3+) tetrakis complexes, C[Ln(L)4], are important for applications due to their high quantum yields, solubility, and stability. Their luminescent properties depend on the structure, particularly the coordination polyhedron, the assessment of computational methods for calculating their structures is paramount. Usually, this assessment uses the RMSD of distances in the [Ln(L)4]− complex or {LnO8} polyhedron between crystallographic and calculated structures. However, since ligand field (LF) splitting is highly geometry‐dependent, the RMSD between experimental LF splitting and Stark levels (RMSD‐LF) offers a more accurate measure for evaluating quantum methods. LF energy eigenvalues were calculated using the simple overlap model (SOM), with geometries optimized by various density functionals. M06 and M06‐L functionals, with def2‐SVP/MWB52(Eu)/CPCM, demonstrate the best balance in best accuracy and low computational cost, making them suitable for modeling C[Eu(L)4] complexes.
High Glucose Inhibits O‐GlcNAc Transferase Translocation in Early Osteoblast Differentiation by Altering Protein Phosphatase 2A Activity
Authors: Sitosari Heriati , Fukuhara Yoko , Weng Yao , Zheng Yilin , He Yuhan , Zheng Xinyu , Ikegame Mika , Okamura Hirohiko
Published: January 2025

Our previous study revealed a link between O‐GlcNAc transferase (OGT) localization and protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) activity in osteoblast. Given the association of PP2A downregulation with osteoblast differentiation, we hypothesized that OGT localization changes during this process. We examined OGT localization in MC3T3‐E1 cells undergoing differentiation under normal and high glucose conditions. Changes in PP2A activity were followed by alterations in OGT localization. Organ culture of calvaria revealed similar OGT localization changes in bone‐surrounding osteoblasts near the suture area. Furthermore, the levels of O‐GlcNAc modification in various proteins including Runt‐related transcription factor 2, Osterix, and ATP synthase subunit alpha (ATP5A) were shifted in parallel with OGT translocation. These findings suggest a regulatory role of OGT, under the influence of PP2A, during osteoblast differentiation.
Impact of age at diagnosis on college adjustment in students with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Pham Angela , Chaudhry Naueen A. , Molina Isaac , Setya Aniruddh , Flint Andrew , Dang Anna , Wang Laurie , Potlach Tomas , Li Qian , Guo Yi , McGetrick Molly , Beasley Genie , Estores Irene , Keefer Laurie , Dubinsky Marla , Zimmermann Ellen M.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Little is known about the experience of college students with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the factors associated with transition readiness, academic adjustment, and alternatively, those associated with academic hardship and attrition.

Methods

Survey‐based cross‐sectional studies, including those addressing disease‐specific quality of life (Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire), IBD disease activity (Harvey–Bradshaw Index and Patient Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index), college adjustment (Student Adjustment to College Questionnaire), transition readiness (Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire [TRAQ]), and self‐efficacy (inflammatory bowel disease self‐efficacy scale).

Results

The surveys were completed by 135 participants (59 IBD patients [37 Crohn's disease and 22 ulcerative colitis]; 76 controls). Participants with IBD were matched with respect to age, gender, academic status, and involvement in extracurricular activities. Participants endorsed making important college decisions associated with their disease and were significantly more likely to live at home (p < 0.001), take fewer credits (p < 0.02), and more likely than controls to have their education interrupted (p < 0.0005). Participant age at diagnosis was an important factor associated with college adjustment, with older age at diagnosis having the most association with the ability to adjust to college life. As expected based on prior literature, TRAQ scores suggested better than expected transition readiness in college students with IBD (p < 0.0006) with subscores revealing that female students are better at managing health issues and daily activities.

Conclusion

IBD affects the college experience of students–patients significantly and can have life‐long implications. Newly diagnosed students are at risk of poor college adjustment impacting academic performance and their future success. Male students are at greater risk than female students of poor transitioning to adult IBD care. Students with IBD should receive enhanced and age‐specific modern IBD care.
Land productivity and environmental sustainability for G7 economies: Does an inverted U‐shaped curve exhibit green finance?
Authors: Khan Zeeshan , Badeeb Ramez Abubakr , Ali Sher , Bilan Yuriy , Majewski Sebastian
Published: January 2025

Land productivity including both water and agriculture are equally important for sustainable environment. The study investigate the role of water productivity and agriculture land along with the non‐linear effect of green finance on environment. Specifically, this research aims to investigate the effect of agriculture land, water productivity, green finance, environmental taxes and technologies on environmental sustainability in the Group of Seven (G7) countries, covering the timeframe of 1990–2020. The study also scrutinized the effect of green innovation and environmental regulations on the environment. This study uses novel panel data methods that are robust to nonparametric data. The empirical data are confirmed to be nonnormally distributed; therefore, the quantile regression approach is used. The empirical results confirmed an inverted U‐shaped curve for green finance, as its linear term is positive, and its nonlinear term negatively impacts carbon emissions. This supports the idea that green finance is effective for a group of seven economies; however, its magnitude should increase. Moreover, agricultural land, water productivity, environmental regulations, and green innovation negatively impact carbon emissions. By contrast, increasing economic activities, such as gross domestic product, increase carbon emissions. This study recommends increasing the focus on green finance, agricultural land, water productivity, and environmental regulations for the G7 countries to achieve the target of COP 27 and address climate change.
Effects of Mountain Microorganisms on the Growth and Development of the Bean Crop (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.) in the Municipality of Caldono, Cauca, Colombia
Authors: Cabrera Efrén Venancio Ramos , Mondragón Yineth Camila Pabón , Vargas Britney Gisell Yotengo , Pino Andrés Felipe Solis , Espinosa Zuly Yuliana Delgado
Published: January 2025

Bean monoculture deteriorates soil fertility, decreases organic matter, reduces microbial diversity, and accelerates erosion, depleting nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. This leads to dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, increasing environmental pollution. A viable solution is mountain microorganisms, improving nutrient availability, disease resistance, environmental stress, and soil structure. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding their specific efficacy in supporting the growth and development of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under specific agroecological conditions. This research aims to help fill this knowledge gap, so in the Municipality of Caldono, Cauca, Colombia, the effect of mountain microorganisms was evaluated in about 900 seeds of Phaseolus vulgaris L. variety Cargamanto. A randomized complete block design with three treatments was used: T0 (control, no inoculation), T1 (inoculation with mountain microorganisms for 1 h), and T2 (inoculation with mountain microorganisms for 3 h). Growth parameters such as plant height, number of nodules, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, dry weight, and grain yield per hectare were evaluated. The results suggest that inoculation with mountain microorganisms significantly improved all measured parameters compared to the control samples. T2 consistently outperformed T1, indicating that more extended inoculation periods increase the efficacy of the parameters evaluated. These results suggest that applying mountain microorganisms is a promising and sustainable approach to improve bean productivity, which could reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and promote more environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Thus, the study provides valuable information on mountain microorganisms as a biotechnological alternative to improve crop yield and soil health in bean monoculture systems.
Step Width Haptic Feedback for Gait Stability in Spinocerebellar Ataxia: Preliminary Results
Authors: Wang Hong , Ullah Zakir , Gazit Eran , Brozgol Marina , Hausdorff Jeffrey M. , Shull Peter B. , Ponger Penina
Published: January 2025

Background

Wider step width and lower step‐to‐step variability are linked to improved gait stability and reduced fall risk. It is unclear if patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) can learn to adjust these aspects of gait to reduce fall risk.

Objectives

The aims were to examine the possibility of using wearable step width haptic biofeedback to enhance gait stability and reduce fall risk in individuals with SCA.

Methods

Thirteen people with SCA type 3 performed step width training (single session) using real‐time feedback.

Results

Step width increased post‐training (19.3 cm, interquartile range [IQR] 16.3–20.2 cm) and at retention (16.6 cm, IQR 16.2–21.1 cm), compared to baseline (11.0 cm, IQR 5.2–15.2 cm; P < 0.001). Step width variability decreased during post‐training (19.7%, IQR 17.4%–26.2%) and at retention (22.3%, IQR 18.6%–30.2%), compared to baseline (44.5%, IQR 28.5%–71.2%; P < 0.001). Crossover steps, another mark of instability, decreased after training (P < 0.031).

Conclusions

These pilot results suggest that patients with SCA can use a novel, wearable biofeedback system to improve their gait stability. © 2025 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Jacobian‐Free Vectorial Iterative Scheme to Find Simple Several Solutions Simultaneously
Authors: Cordero Alicia , Torregrosa Juan R. , Triguero‐Navarro Paula
Published: January 2025

This manuscript is devoted to a derivative‐free parametric iterative step to obtain roots simultaneously for both nonlinear systems and equations. We prove that when it is added to an arbitrary scheme, it doubles the convergence order of the original procedure and defines a new algorithm that obtains several solutions simultaneously. Different numerical experiments are carried out to check the behavior of the iterative methods by changing the value of the parameter and the initial guesses. Also, it performs a numerical example where the dynamical planes are carried out to see and compare the basins of attraction.
The Mucilage From the Opuntia ficus‐indica (L.) Mill. Cladodes Plays an Anti‐Inflammatory Role in the LPS‐Stimulated HepG2 Cells: A Combined In Vitro and In Silico Approach
Authors: Pierdomenico Maria , Giardullo Paola , Bruno Giuliana , Bacchetta Loretta , Maccioni Oliviero , Demurtas Olivia C. , Sulli Maria , Diretto Gianfranco , Arcangeli Caterina , Colini Flavio , Chiavarini Salvatore , Benassi Barbara
Published: January 2025

The effect of a mucilage extracted from Opuntia ficus‐indica (L.) Mill (OFI) cladodes was tested in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐challenged HepG2 hepatocarcinoma cells, through a combined in vitro–in silico approach. The OFI mucilage was characterized by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography‐high resolution mass spectrometry. In cells treated with OFI (5–10 µg/mL) prior to LPS (1 µg/mL, 24 h), the gene expression profile of pro‐inflammatory mediators, namely tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin‐1 beta, interleukin‐8, and cyclo‐oxygenase‐2, was significantly (p < 0.01) reduced if compared to single LPS‐challenged cells. The OFI‐mediated cytokines reduction was also validated in polystyrene scaffold‐grown 3D HepG2 cultures, undergoing treatment with the OFI mucilage (50 µg/mL, 24 h) and LPS stimulation (50 µg/mL, 24 h). We further demonstrated that OFI suppresses the LPS‐triggered inflammatory response via impairment of the Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)/Myeloid differentiation protein‐88/Nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐kB) pathway, by interfering with NF‐kB phosphorylation at Serine 536. By molecular docking approach, we provided in silico demonstration of the direct molecular interaction between the mucilage monosaccharides and the TLR4 that interferes with the LPS receptor binding and down‐stream inflammatory cascade activation. We also demonstrated that OFI cladodes mucilage downregulates the TLR4 pathway, showing an anti‐inflammatory potential in HepG2 cells.
The Role of Gastrostomy and Noninvasive Ventilation in Primary Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Oliveira Santos Miguel , Domingues Sara , Simão Sara , Gromicho Marta , Alves Inês , de Carvalho Mamede
Published: January 2025

Introduction/Aims

Literature on the role of gastrostomy and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) is limited. We aim to investigate whether PLS patients develop dysphagia requiring feeding tubes or respiratory failure necessitating NIV.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of PLS patients with a definite diagnosis followed at our center (1994–2024). Patients with marked dysphagia (score < 3 on Question 3 of the ALSFRS‐R) received a recommendation for gastrostomy and were divided into two groups: G1/G2 (accepted/declined gastrostomy). We investigated NIV indications due to respiratory failure and compared these patients (G3) to those without respiratory impairment (G4). Demographic, clinical, and neurophysiological data were collected and compared.

Results

Forty‐eight patients had a definite diagnosis of PLS. Gastrostomy was recommended to 18 (37.5%), yet only 7 patients (38.9%‐G1) consented. The median time to gastrostomy was 77 months. Total survival and survival post‐gastrostomy recommendation were not different between G1 and G2. Six PLS patients (12.5%‐G3) developed respiratory failure and initiated NIV (median of 63 months). At 63 months, G3 had significantly lower median forced vital capacity (65% vs. 99%; p < 0.001) and phrenic nerve amplitude (0.43 vs. 0.75 mV; p = 0.039), but a greater ALSFRS‐R slope (0.34 vs. 0.14; p = 0.046) and shorter survival (35 vs. 94.9 months; p = 0.009) compared to G4.

Discussion

Dysphagia requiring gastrostomy was common in our PLS cohort, but survival after gastrostomy recommendation did not differ between groups. Patients who developed respiratory impairment may represent a distinct group with faster disease progression and shorter survival. Our findings may contribute to a deeper understanding and improved management of PLS.
Deep Learning and Numerical Analysis for Bladder Outflow Obstruction and Detrusor Underactivity Diagnosis in Men: A Novel Urodynamic Evaluation Scheme
Authors: Mei Haonan , Wang Zhishun , Zheng Qingyuan , Jiao Panpan , Lv Shengqi , Liu Xiuheng , Chen Hui , Yang Rui
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To automatically identify and diagnose bladder outflow obstruction (BOO) and detrusor underactivity (DUA) in male patients with lower urinary tract symptoms through urodynamics exam.

Patients and Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 1949 male patients who underwent a urodynamic study at two institutions. Deep Convolutional Neural Networks scheme combined with a short‐time Fourier transform algorithm was trained to perform an accurate diagnosis of BOO and DUA, utilizing five‐channel urodynamic data (consisting of uroflowmetry, urine volume, intravesical pressure, abdominal pressure, and detrusor pressure). We used fivefold cross‐validation, constructing training and internal test sets from 1725 patients from Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University (RHWU) at a 4:1 ratio, and used an independent external validation set consisting of 224 patients from The Central Hospital of Wuhan (TCHO) to build and evaluate the DI model. We further conducted subgroup analyses to provide a more detailed description of the AI model's interpretability regarding urodynamics.

Results

The AUC scores of BOO and DUA, which were measured through the STFT‐based deep learning method, were 0.945 ± 0.020 and 0.929 ± 0.039 in RHWU and 0.881 and 0.850 in TCHO, respectively. The diagnostic efficiency of other subgroup analyses and indicators was also effective.

Conclusion

In this study, the proposed deep neural network combined with the short‐time Fourier transform method is robust and feasible for interpreting the results of urodynamics in men and has the potential for application to assist clinicians in real clinical settings.
Thermo‐physical and mechanical properties of the 3D‐printing materials applicable for formers of superconducting cables
Authors: Pašák Matej , Cuninková Eva , Pekarčíková Marcela , Drienovský Marián , Krajčovič Jozef , Šimon Štefan , Hulačová Simona , Skarba Michal
Published: January 2025

This study evaluates the suitability of additively manufactured polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), and their carbon fiber (CF) reinforced variants as spring‐shaped formers for superconducting cables, where non‐conductivity is crucial to prevent eddy current losses. The evaluation focuses on thermo‐physical and mechanical properties of the materials in as‐printed state and after annealing. All materials, except the PC+CF, exhibited sufficient heat capacity (>0.750 J/g °C) at room temperature. Contrary to expectations, the CF reinforcement did not reduce the high coefficient of thermal expansion, but this can be mitigated by former design. The tensile strength was 43 MPa for PETG and 54 MPa for PC, with only minor improvements upon adding CF and heat treatment, likely due to the insufficient fiber‐matrix adhesion. At cryogenic temperatures, tensile strength increased significantly, particularly for PETG and CF‐reinforced, thermally treated PC, with doubling the values. A similar effect was observed in the calculated Young's moduli. Compression tests in liquid nitrogen bath showed better resilience of pure PETG and PC+CF variants, with PETG‐based materials enduring 300 thermal cycles without damage. Based on their balanced properties, PETG, annealed PETG+CF and PC+CF were selected for finite element analysis, which confirmed their potential for use in superconducting cables.

Highlights

Polymer composites explored as insulating alternatives to Cu in cable formers.

A flat spring design compensates for polymer composites' thermal expansion.

Polymer composite properties measured across various temperatures.

Selected materials endure thermal cycles in liquid nitrogen without damage.

Finite element simulation predicts thermal deformation impact on tapes.
Synergistic effects of thermoplastic starch and nanofibrillated cellulose on the mechanical, thermal, and micromorphological properties of polylactic acid composites
Authors: Li Zhijie , Lin Yukai , Cheng Huifan , Qian Shaoping , Fang Xiaolong
Published: January 2025

Filling and reinforcing highly brittle and costly polylactic acid (PLA) with nanocellulose and starch has been found to be a promising approach for practical applications. However, the strong tendency of nanocellulose to agglomerate significantly affects the overall performance of the resulting composites. This study employed ball‐milling method to incorporate nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) into starch, innovatively producing reinforced thermoplastic starch (TPS), which is then used to enhance the mechanical properties and reduce costs of PLA without compromising biodegradability. The effects of the ratio of PLA to TPS and the amount of NFC added were thoroughly investigated. Notably, the inclusion of NFC and TPS not only enhanced tensile strength but also improved toughness. At a PLA:TPS ratio of 70:30 with 4 wt% NFC, the composites achieved maximum toughness of 10.73 kJ/m3, a 973% increase over pure PLA. Furthermore, adding 7 wt% NFC significantly boosted tensile strength and elastic modulus, increasing by 14.7% and 29% respectively compared with NFC‐free composites, reaching 37.11 and 710.94 MPa. Additionally, NFC and TPS addition enhanced PLA crystallization and thermal stability. Thermal decomposition of PLA typically occurred at approximately 250°C. However, blending raised the initial thermal decomposition temperature of PLA/TPS/NFC composites to 290°C, indicating enhanced thermal stability. These findings enhance the application potential of PLA‐based composites, extending to environmentally friendly packaging and furniture industrial applications.

Highlights

NFC dispersion in TPS composites was enhanced through ball milling treatment.

Composites with 4 wt% NFC showed a 973% toughness increase over pure PLA.

The developed composites achieved maximum tensile strength (37.11 MPa).

TPS imparted toughness to PLA, which reduced its brittleness.

The thermal decomposition temperature of the composites rose to 290°C.
Influence of strain rate and temperature on the thermomechanical behavior of flax fibers/Elium acrylic composite: Experimental characterization and modeling
Authors: Koumba Mendoue D. , Matadi Boumbimba R. , Benelfellah A. , Ponçot M. , Royaud I. , Wary M.
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the viscoelastic behavior of unidirectional flax fibers/Elium acrylic composite reinforced with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), focusing on their sensitivity to strain rate and temperature. In parallel, a cyclic tensile analysis was performed to monitor damage mechanisms in the composite. The results revealed enhanced mechanical and viscoelastic properties with increasing load and frequency. However, a reduction of 7°C in the relaxation associated to the glass transition temperature (Tg) was observed, as measured by dynamic mechanical analysis, in composites containing MWCNT. The study also highlighted the strain rate and temperature dependence of the flax fibers/Elium acrylic composite. Damage analysis revealed that the inclusion of MWCNTs delayed the onset of damage in the composite, suggesting that MWCNTs enhance material strength and improve durability. Additionally, a new model, combining Richeton's approach with numerical modeling, showed good agreement with experimental data.

Highlights

MWCNTs improved fiber‐matrix interface in flax/Elium composites.

Strain rate sensitivity, even with MWCNTs.

MWCNTs raised storage modulus and shifted Tg to lower temperatures.

MWCNTs delayed damage, enhancing composite durability.

The new model provides a good prediction of elastic modulus.
Enhancing the flexural behavior of GFRP single‐lap co‐cure joints reinforced with multi‐reinforcements
Authors: Venugopal Anandhan , P Edwin Sudhagar , S Senthamizh Selvan , Murugan Rajesh , Suthanthiraveerappa Vimalanand , Hiremath Vinayak S
Published: January 2025

The investigation focused on the glass fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite co‐cure single lap joint (CC‐SLJ) that incorporates graphene nanoparticles (GNP) in epoxy and carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) Z‐pin reinforcement. The flexural test indicated that the integration of GNP and CFRP‐Z‐pin within the inner and outer layers of SLJ leads to improvement in flexural strength. The flexural strength of CC‐SLJ reinforced with GNP/epoxy and Z‐pin reinforcement reaches 145.02 MPa under static loading, with an improvement of 69.55% over the unreinforced SLJ. The SLJ under static loading with GNP/epoxy and graphene incorporated Z‐pin reinforced with demonstrate a significant improvement in flexural strength of 150.34 MPa, with an improvement of 71.22% over the unreinforced SLJ. Fractography revealed that the incorporation of GNP and Z pins into the SLJ enhances interfacial bonding between the adhesive and adherend, increases surface roughness, improves pin pull‐out resistance, and influences crack formation.

Highlights

The co‐cure technique is used to fabricate single‐lap GFRP composite joints.

Carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer Z‐pin reinforced with GNP/epoxy adhesive.

SLJ flexural strength was higher in 1.25 wt% of GNP and 2.5 vol% 90°/Z‐pin.

Multiple reinforcements used in SLJ to achieve its maximum flexural strength.

Failure analysis was conducted using microscopes and FESEM images.
Thermal properties of Al2W3O12/epoxy composites at low filler volume loadings
Authors: Pontón Patricia I. , Tejedor Jennifer , Guerrero Víctor H. , Guamán Marco V. , Lagos Karina J. , Gálvez Anaí , Espinoza Daniel , Marinkovic Bojan A.
Published: January 2025

The open‐framework Al2W3O12 ceramic has been perceived as a candidate for controlling the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of polymer matrices due to its low positive CTE and simple low‐cost soft‐chemistry synthesis. Hence, this work aims to study the effect of Al2W3O12 submicronic fillers at low loadings (0.46–1.43 vol%, i.e. 2.0–6.0 wt%) on thermal properties of epoxy‐based composites. The composites were prepared by ultrasonic filler dispersion followed by casting, and characterized through thermomechanical and thermogravimetric analyses. The maximum decrease (11.5%) on the composite CTE in the glassy region was attained with 0.94 vol% Al2W3O12 (4.0 wt%), the highest reported for these open‐framework fillers reinforcing epoxy at low volume fractions. Experimental CTE values contrasted with predictions from micromechanical models, revealed that elastic constants of both phases and filler agglomeration state, cannot be disregarded in predicting the composite CTE. The filler did not affect the onset and the maximum degradation rate temperatures of epoxy, while glass transition temperature was increased (2%–11%) for filler loadings <1.43 vol% (<6 wt%). A higher residue char in the composites suggested that Al2W3O12 can partially prevent the volatiles release from matrix to the atmosphere.

Highlights

Al2W3O12 is an excellent inexpensive filler for CTE controlling due to its low CTE.

Incorporation of Al2W3O12 in an epoxy matrix reduces the CTE in the glassy state.

The maximum CTE reduction (11.5%) was achieved for a filler content of 0.94 vol.%.

The glass transition temperature of composites increased in the range of 2–11 %.

Al2W3O12 can act as a barrier to prevent the transfer of volatiles from the matrix.
Off‐the‐shelf image analysis models outperform human visual assessment in identifying genes controlling seed color variation in sorghum
Authors: Shrestha Nikee , Mangal Harshita , Torres‐Rodriguez J. Vladimir , Tross Michael C. , Lopez‐Corona Lina , Linders Kyle , Sun Guangchao , Mural Ravi V. , Schnable James C.
Published: January 2025

Seed color is a complex phenotype linked to both the impact of grains on human health and consumer acceptance of new crop varieties. Today, seed color is often quantified via qualitative human assessment or biochemical assays for specific colored metabolites. Imaging‐based approaches have the potential to be more quantitative than human scoring while being lower cost than biochemical assays. We assessed the feasibility of employing image analysis tools trained on rice (Oryza sativa) or wheat (Triticum aestivum) seeds to quantify seed color in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) using a dataset of 1,500 images. Quantitative measurements of seed color from images were substantially more consistent across biological replicates than human assessment. Genome‐wide association studies conducted using color phenotypes for 682 sorghum genotypes identified more signals near known seed color genes in sorghum with stronger support than manually scored seed color for the same experiment. Previously unreported genomic intervals linked to variation in seed color in our study co‐localized with a gene encoding an enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway leading to anthocyanins, tannins, and phlobaphenes—colored metabolites in sorghum seeds—and with the sorghum ortholog of a transcription factor shown to regulate several enzymes in the same pathway in rice. The cross‐species transferability of image analysis tools, without the retraining, may aid efforts to develop higher value and health‐promoting crop varieties in sorghum and other specialty and orphan grain crops.
Study of a mixing‐fog event using WRF‐LES numerical simulations
Authors: Dimitrova Reneta N. , Fernando Harindra J. S. , Silver Zachariah , Bardoel Stef L. , Dorman Clive E. , Koračin Darko , Vladimirov Evgeni , Giani Paolo
Published: January 2025

The prediction of fog using numerical weather forecasting models is a continuing challenge due to the combined influence of processes at different spatial and temporal scales as well as nonlinear interactions between them, especially in coastal regions. The focus of this work is on a specific mixing‐fog event observed during the “Toward Improving Coastal Fog Prediction” field campaign at the Ferryland field site, when a cold‐frontal air mass arriving from the northeast approached the Downs peninsula, Newfoundland, Canada. Simulations with the Weather Research and Forecasting model using a Large Eddy Simulation option (WRF‐LES) were used to study physical processes at different scales contributing to the life cycle of fog. The model was thoroughly evaluated by conducting simulations with a suite of available model options and comparing results with observations, and the best set of options selected were used for simulations of the present field case to reveal the formation, evolution, and dissipation of fog. Our analysis suggests four factors that play a role on the fog formation: (i) synoptic scale – advection of cold moist air over shallow warmer coastal waters creates a shallow marine boundary layer capped by inversion; (ii) mesoscale – low cloud formation strengthens the inversion by releasing latent heat at the top of the cloud, thus generating convective instability and downward mixing in the cloud layer; this further enhances the descent of the lower boundary (base) of the cloud layer; (iii) local scale – near‐surface turbulence induced by the collision of cold denser air mass with an orographic barrier can promote mixing, cooling of the air and fog initiation; and (iv) microscale – mixing of near‐saturated with saturated air and decrease in temperature drive the water vapor condensation. All described processes have significant roles and play together to provide favorable conditions to patchy fog/mist formation for the described case.
Compost Application Enhances Soil Health and Maintains Crop Yield: Insights From 56 Farmer‐Managed Arable Fields
Authors: Edlinger Anna , Herzog Chantal , Garland Gina , Walder Florian , Banerjee Samiran , Keel Sonja G. , Mayer Jochen , Philippot Laurent , Romdhane Sana , Schiedung Marcus , Schmidt Michael W. I. , Seitz Benjamin , Wüst‐Galley Chloé , van der Heijden Marcel G. A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Improving soil health while maintaining crop yield is a key challenge for farmers. So far, only a few studies assessed the effects of compost and solid digestate application on soil health and plant yield under practical on‐farm conditions across both organic and conventional cropping systems.

Materials and Methods

This study examined 56 arable fields in Switzerland, managed either conventionally (n = 39) or organically (n = 17) by individual farmers. Fields were categorised based on their fertilisation history: standard fertilisation (n = 21), including livestock manure, slurry, and mineral fertilisers (reference), or with additional compost (n = 26) or solid digestate (n = 9) amendments. Soil health was assessed based on eight chemical, biological, and physical soil health indicators.

Results

Compost use, but not solid digestate use, was associated with enhanced average soil health ( + 31% over reference fields), driven by increases in basal respiration ( + 45%), cation exchange capacity ( + 42%), fungal richness ( + 18%), and marginally higher soil organic carbon stocks ( + 28%). These differences were consistent across management systems, despite site variability. Clay content and extended periods of crop cover also positively influenced soil health. Wheat yields were 21% lower under organic management but unaffected by compost or digestate use.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that using compost alongside practices like extended periods of crop cover can effectively promote soil health while maintaining yields in practical farming scenarios, offering a means to balance multiple sustainability goals simultaneously.
Empowering Sustainable Infrastructure and Sustainable Development Goals Through Industry 5.0 Implementation
Authors: Daoud Ahmed Osama , Kineber Ahmed Farouk , Ali Ali Hassan , Elseknidy Mohamed
Published: January 2025

The transition to Industry 5.0 represents a significant transformation in the global industrial landscape, combining advanced technology with human creativity to promote sustainable development. This study investigates the potential of Industry 5.0 to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within sustainable infrastructure projects, addressing a critical gap in existing research concerning its practical applications and outcomes. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS‐SEM), the study analyzes data collected from 150 construction professionals in Egypt, focusing on key enablers such as digital transformation skills, eco‐innovation, and proactive governmental support. The results demonstrate that these Industry 5.0 enablers significantly enhance environmental resilience, social inclusivity, and economic efficiency in infrastructure projects. The research offers a novel theoretical framework and empirical evidence on the constructive role of Industry 5.0 in achieving sustainable infrastructure outcomes, providing valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and academic researchers. These findings highlight the potential of Industry 5.0 to drive innovation that aligns with the SDGs and fosters sustainable, human‐centric development.
Enhanced Performance of Particulate Oxynitride Photoanodes by Electron‐Collecting‐Oxide Array Insertion for Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Gong Chaoxiu , Feng Jiahui , Hu Meiqin , Liu Shujuan , Luo Jianqiang , Zhang Yifan , Zhang Jingsheng , Zhu Ting , Kang Jiahao , Xiong Feng‐Qiang
Published: January 2025

The collection of photogenerated electrons is a bottleneck to the photoelectrochemical performance of particulate photoanodes. In this work, the electron‐conducting array insertion strategy is applied for the assembly of LaTiO2N and SrNbO2N particulate photoanodes, and the candidates of conductive arrays are expanded from rigid vertically grown ZnO nanorod arrays to multi‐directionally grown ZnO nanoparticle arrays. ZnO nanorod arrays and ZnO nanoparticle arrays were inserted via electrodepositing ZnO from Zn(NO3)2 aqueous solution and n‐butanolic solution, respectively. By inserting a ZnO nanoparticle array, the performance of the assembled LaTiO2N micron particulate photoanodes is improved by 2 orders of magnitude compared to the uninserted one, and the photocurrent at 1.23 VRHE reaches 4.53 mA cm−2, slightly higher than 4.03 mA cm−2 (of the one assembled with a ZnO nanorod array). On the other hand, the performance of SrNbO2N hundred‐nanometer particulate photoanodes assembled with ZnO nanoarrays are 6–11 times of the uninserted one, and the photocurrent at 1.23 VRHE of the one assembled with a ZnO nanoparticle array reaches 1.88 mA cm−2, significantly higher than 0.97 mA cm−2 (of the one assembled with a ZnO nanorod array).
Palladium‐Catalyzed Site‐Selective C─H Alkoxylation Using Biorelevant Heterocyclic Directing Groups
Authors: Rallabandi Jithender , Shown Indrajit
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a novel palladium‐catalyzed alkoxylation method via C─H activation, utilizing an intrinsic, weakly coordinating directing group (DG) derived from bioactive molecules. This approach is particularly relevant for the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, offering a versatile tool for functionalizing complex compounds. The success and site selectivity of this method are determined by the choice of catalytic systems and reaction conditions, including the catalyst, ligand, solvent, and temperature. The substrate scope demonstrates broad applicability, particularly for modifying bioactive scaffolds, highlighting the method's generalizability. This protocol provides a promising route for altering pharmaceutical compounds and other critical chemical products with exceptional regioselectivity. The discovery of an intrinsic DG, combined with the ability to fine‐tune reaction conditions, positions this methodology as a significant advancement for functionalization processes in pharmaceutical and chemical applications, paving the way for further exploration in these fields.
Molecular Engineering of 2′, 7′‐Dichlorofluorescein to Unlock Efficient Superoxide Anion NIR‐II Fluorescent Imaging and Tumor Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Xu Lizhen , Wang Xin , Huang Ling , Dai Lixuan , Tan Dan , Lin Weiying
Published: January 2025

Although classical fluorescent dyes feature advantages of high quantum yield, tunable “OFF‐ON” fluorescence, and modifiable chemical structures, etc., their bio‐applications in deep tissue remains challenging due to their excessively short emission wavelength (that may lead to superficial tissue penetration depth). Therefore, there is a pressing need for pushing the wavelength of classical dyes from visible region to NIR‐II window. As a representative classical dye, the 2′,7′‐Dichlorofluorescein (DCF), a derivative of Fluorescein, is selected and rationally engineered to develop a novel NIR‐II platform, CR‐OH, which exhibits a substantial red‐shift in the wavelength from the visible region to the NIR‐II region. This achievement is attributed to molecular modification strategies that include extending π‐conjugation, enhancing molecular rigidity, and incorporating strong electron‐withdrawing groups. Furthermore, based on this developed NIR‐II platform, a NIR‐II fluorescence probe and a photothermal nanoagent are successfully constructed to unlock its bio‐application in the NIR‐II fluorescence imaging of endogenous O2·– fluctuations in a CIRI model for the first time, as well as effective photothermal therapy for 4T1 tumors with a high photothermal conversion efficiency (44.0%). Significantly, this work overcomes the wavelength limitation of classical dyes, effectively unlocking their applications for the diagnosis and treatment of early disease in the NIR‐II window.