bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining robotic training and inactivation of the healthy hemisphere restores pre-stroke motor patterns in mice
Authors: Spalletti Cristina , Alia Claudia , Lai Stefano , Panarese Alessandro , Conti Sara , Micera Silvestro , Caleo Matteo
Published: December 2017

Focal cortical stroke often leads to persistent motor deficits, prompting the need for more effective interventions. The efficacy of rehabilitation can be increased by ‘plasticity-stimulating’ treatments that enhance experience-dependent modifications in spared areas. Transcallosal pathways represent a promising therapeutic target, but their role in post-stroke recovery remains controversial. Here, we demonstrate that the contralesional cortex exerts an enhanced interhemispheric inhibition over the perilesional tissue after focal cortical stroke in mouse forelimb motor cortex. Accordingly, we designed a rehabilitation protocol combining intensive, repeatable exercises on a robotic platform with reversible inactivation of the contralesional cortex. This treatment promoted recovery in general motor tests and in manual dexterity with remarkable restoration of pre-lesion movement patterns, evaluated by kinematic analysis. Recovery was accompanied by a reduction of transcallosal inhibition and ‘plasticity brakes’ over the perilesional tissue. Our data support the use of combinatorial clinical therapies exploiting robotic devices and modulation of interhemispheric connectivity.
Stochastic resonance mediates the state-dependent effect of periodic stimulation on cortical alpha oscillations
Authors: Lefebvre Jérémie , Hutt Axel , Frohlich Flavio
Published: December 2017

Brain stimulation can be used to engage and modulate rhythmic activity in brain networks. However, the outcomes of brain stimulation are shaped by behavioral states and endogenous fluctuations in brain activity. To better understand how this intrinsic oscillatory activity controls the susceptibility of the brain to stimulation, we analyzed a computational model of the thalamo-cortical system in two distinct states (rest and task-engaged) to identify the mechanisms by which endogenous alpha oscillations (8Hz–12Hz) are modulated by periodic stimulation. Our analysis shows that the different responses to stimulation observed experimentally in these brain states can be explained by a passage through a bifurcation combined with stochastic resonance — a mechanism by which irregular fluctuations amplify the response of a nonlinear system to weak periodic signals. Indeed, our findings suggest that modulation of brain oscillations is best achieved in states of low endogenous rhythmic activity, and that irregular state-dependent fluctuations in thalamic inputs shape the susceptibility of cortical population to periodic stimulation.
Impact of Light Excitation on Liquid Gate‐All‐Around Silicon Nanowire Field‐Effect Transistor Biosensors with Bowtie Antenna
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , Li Kai , Boichuk Nazarii , Pustovyi Denys , Chekubasheva Valeriia , Long Hanlin , Petrychuk Mykhailo , Vitusevich Svetlana
Published: October 2024

Recently it is shown that sensitivity of biosensors can be considerably improved using single trap phenomena resulting in two‐level random telegraph signal (RTS) switching in current. To develop the transistor structure with a predefined trap position using gold antenna is suggested, which can be excited by light of different intensities to influence the properties of the underlying dielectric layer. High‐quality liquid gate‐all‐around (LGAA) silicon nanowire (NW) field‐effect transistor (FET) biosensors are fabricated with a gold bowtie antenna. The transport and noise properties of these new NW FETs are investigated at 940 nm LED excitation in a 1 mm phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) solution with pH = 7.4. A strong sensitivity of I–V and noise characteristics is revealed with an increase in LED intensity. Well‐resolved Lorentzian components are only found under the influence of light excitation. A two‐level RTS is successfully excited with linear dependence of its amplitude versus intensity. In addition, repeatable fluctuations in current are resolved as small peaks in I–V curves under infrared illumination, thus confirming the excitation of a two‐level RTS in the biosensors. The results demonstrate that the FET devices with a gold antenna have significant potential for the excitation of two‐level signals to enhance the sensitivity of biosensors.
Expanding the β‐Lactamase Family in the Human Microbiome
Authors: Jia Baolei , Baek Ju Hye , Lee Jae Kyeong , Sun Ying , Kim Kyung Hyun , Jung Ji Young , Jeon Che Ok
Published: October 2024

β‐lactams, the most common antibiotics globally, have resistance primarily determined by β‐lactamases. Human microbiota and β‐lactams influence mutually; however, β‐lactamase variety and abundance in the human microbiome remain partially understood. This study aimed to elucidate the diversity, abundance, and substrate spectrum of β‐lactamases. 1369 characterized β‐lactamases and 16 204 putative sequences are collected from protein databases. Upon clustering analysis and biochemical assays, nine proteins exhibiting less than 35% identity to those previously characterized are confirmed as β‐lactamases. These newly identified β‐lactamases originated from eight distinct clusters comprising 1163 β‐lactamases. Quantifying healthy participants (n = 2394) across 19 countries using functionally confirmed clusters revealed that Japan have the highest gut β‐lactamase abundance (log2[reads per million (RPM)] = 6.52) and Fiji have the lowest (log2[RPM] = 2.31). The β‐lactamase abundance is correlated with β‐lactam consumption (R = 0.50, p = 0.029) and income (R = 0.51, p = 0.024). Comparing individuals with ailments with healthy participants, β‐lactamase abundance in the gut is increased significantly in patients with colorectal cancer, cardiovascular diseases, breast cancer, and epilepsy. These outcomes provide insights into investigating antibiotic resistance, antibiotic stewardship, and gut microbiome‐antibiotic interactions.
Membrane Associated RNA‐Containing Vesicles Regulate Cortical Astrocytic Microdomain Calcium Transients in Awake Ischemic Stroke Mice
Authors: Zhou Zhongqiu , Bai Ying , Gu Xiaochun , Ren Hui , Xi Wen , Wang Yu , Bian Liang , Liu Xue , Shen Ling , Xiang Xianyuan , Huang Wenhui , Luo Zhuojuan , Han Bing , Yao Honghong
Published: October 2024

Astrocytic processes minutely regulate neuronal activity via tripartite synaptic structures. The precision‐tuning of the function of astrocytic processes is garnering increasing attention because of its significance in promoting brain repair following ischemic stroke. Microdomain calcium (Ca2+) transients in astrocytic processes are pivotal for the functional regulation of these processes. However, the understanding of the alterations and regulatory mechanism of microdomain Ca2+ transients during stroke remains limited. In the present study, a fast high‐resolution, miniaturized two‐photon microscopy is used to show that the levels of astrocytic microdomain Ca2+ transients are significantly reduced in the peri‐infarct area of awake ischemic stroke mice. This finding correlated with the behavioral deficits shown by these mice under freely‐moving conditions. Mitochondrial Ca2+ activity is an important factor driving the microdomain Ca2+ transients. DEAD Box 1 (DDX1) bound to circSCMH1 (a circular RNA involved in vascular post‐stroke repair) facilitates the formation of membrane‐associated RNA‐containing vesicles (MARVs) and enhances the activity of astrocytic microdomain Ca2+ transients, thereby promoting behavioral recovery. These results show that targeting astrocytic microdomain Ca2+ transients is a potential therapeutic approach in stroke intervention.
Safety Landscape of Therapeutic Nanozymes and Future Research Directions
Authors: Tagaras Nikolaos , Song Haihan , Sahar Shafaq , Tong Weijun , Mao Zhengwei , Buerki‐Thurnherr Tina
Published: October 2024

Oxidative stress and inflammation are at the root of a multitude of diseases. Treatment of these conditions is often necessary but current standard therapies to fight excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation are often ineffective or complicated by substantial safety concerns. Nanozymes are emerging nanomaterials with intrinsic enzyme‐like properties that hold great promise for effective cancer treatment, bacterial elimination, and anti‐inflammatory/anti‐oxidant therapy. While there is rapid progress in tailoring their catalytic activities as evidenced by the recent integration of single‐atom catalysts (SACs) to create next‐generation nanozymes with superior activity, selectivity, and stability, a better understanding and tuning of their safety profile is imperative for successful clinical translation. This review outlines the current applied safety assessment approaches and provides a comprehensive summary of the safety knowledge of therapeutic nanozymes. Overall, nanozymes so far show good in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility despite considerable differences in their composition and enzymatic activities. However, current safety investigations mostly cover a limited set of basic toxicological endpoints, which do not allow for a thorough and deep assessment. Ultimately, remaining research gaps that should be carefully addressed in future studies are highlighted, to optimize the safety profile of therapeutic nanozymes early in their pre‐clinical development.
Entropy Engineering of 2D Materials
Authors: Mei Hao , Zhang Yuxuan , Zhang Panpan , Ricciardulli Antonio Gaetano , Samorì Paolo , Yang Sheng
Published: October 2024

Entropy, a measure of disorder or uncertainty in the thermodynamics system, has been widely used to confer desirable functions to alloys and ceramics. The incorporation of three or more principal elements into a single sublattice increases the entropy to medium and high levels, imparting these materials a mélange of advanced mechanical and catalytic properties. In particular, when scaling down the dimensionality of crystals from bulk to the 2D space, the interplay between entropy stabilization and quantum confinement offers enticing opportunities for exploring new fundamental science and applications, since the structural ordering, phase stability, and local electronic states of these distorted 2D materials get significantly reshaped. During the last few years, the large family of high‐entropy 2D materials is rapidly expanding to host MXenes, hydrotalcites, chalcogenides, metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), and many other uncharted members. Here, the recent advances in this dynamic field are reviewed, elucidating the influence of entropy on the fundamental properties and underlying elementary mechanisms of 2D materials. In particular, their structure‐property relationships resulting from theoretical predictions and experimental findings are discussed. Furthermore, an outlook on the key challenges and opportunities of such an emerging field of 2D materials is also provided.
RNA‐seq analysis of mitochondria‐related genes regulated by AMPK in the human trophoblast cell line BeWo
Authors: Wu Bin , Gao Albert , He Bin , Chen Yun , Kong Xiangfeng , Wen Fayuan , Gao Haijun
Published: October 2024

Background

How AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling regulates mitochondrial functions and mitophagy in human trophoblast cells remains unclear. This study was designed to investigate potential players mediating the regulation of AMPK on mitochondrial functions and mitophagy by next generation RNA‐seq.

Methods

We compared ATP production in protein kinase AMP‐activated catalytic subunit alpha 1/2 (PRKAA1/2) knockdown (AKD) and control BeWo cells using the Seahorse real‐time ATP rate test, then analyzed gene expression profiling by RNA‐seq. Differentially expressed genes (DEG) were examined by Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment. Then protein–protein interactions (PPI) among mitochondria related genes were further analyzed using Metascape and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software.

Results

Both mitochondrial and glycolytic ATP production in AKD cells were lower than in the control BeWo cells (CT), with a greater reduction of mitochondrial ATP production. A total of 1092 DEGs were identified, with 405 upregulated and 687 downregulated. GO analysis identified 60 genes associated with the term ‘mitochondrion’ in the cellular component domain. PPI analysis identified three clusters of mitochondria related genes, including aldo‐keto reductase family 1 member B10 and B15 (AKR1B10, AKR1B15), alanyl‐tRNA synthetase 1 (AARS1), mitochondrial ribosomal protein S6 (MRPS6), mitochondrial calcium uniporter dominant negative subunit beta (MCUB) and dihydrolipoamide branched chain transacylase E2 (DBT).

Conclusions

In summary, this study identified multiple mitochondria related genes regulated by AMPK in BeWo cells, and among them, three clusters of genes may potentially contribute to altered mitochondrial functions in response to reduced AMPK signaling.
Theoretical Calculation–Driven Metal–Organic Framework Nanozymes: Catalytic Mechanisms and Applications
Authors: Zhang Ziyu , Yuan Zhishuang , Zhang Ziyan , Guan Jing , Tan Weiqiang , Zhang Guangyao , Chai Huining
Published: October 2024

Metal–organic framework (MOF) nanozymes have garnered widespread attention in the field of biomimetic catalysis due to their highly controllable porous structure and surface functionalization, enabling them to mimic the catalytic activity and specificity of natural enzymes while offering greater stability and reusability. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the theoretical computation studies of MOF nanozymes' catalytic reactions, providing deep insights into their catalytic and analytical mechanisms. This review comprehensively gathers the latest research progress of theoretical calculation–driven MOF nanozymes on their catalytic mechanisms and applications. First, the methods that can be used for theoretical calculations of MOF nanozymes, especially density functional theory (DFT), are reviewed to help deeply analyze the active site distribution, electron transfer pathways, and adsorption and activation mechanisms of reactants of MOF nanozymes. Subsequently, this review deeply studies the contribution of these theoretical calculation methods to revealing the catalytic reaction mechanism of MOF nanozymes (such as active sites and enzyme‐like activity), especially the specific role of electron transfer and reaction energy changes in key reaction steps. Finally, this review looks forward to the challenges and opportunities in the theoretical computation for the future design and application of MOF nanozymes, especially in accurately predicting catalytic activities, understanding complex reaction mechanisms, and guiding the synthesis of new nanozyme materials. By integrating theoretical calculations with experimental research, the study of MOF nanozymes is expected to forge new avenues in biomimetic catalysis and provide effective strategies for addressing challenges in the fields of sensing, biomedicine, and environmental protection.
Industrial experimental study on combustion characteristics and NOx emission characteristics of a 600 MWe wall‐fired boiler under ultra‐low excess air coefficient conditions
Authors: Ti Shuguang , Deng Shanshan , Yang Zhi , Zheng Li , Zhu Youjian , Gao Ke , Gao Shang , Yang Jinhui , Wang Haopeng
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to explore the effects of ultra‐low excess air coefficients on the combustion performance and NOx emission characteristics of coal‐fired boilers through industrial experiments conducted on a 600 MWe wall‐fired boiler. The results indicate that the burners demonstrate good ignition performance under different ultra‐low excess air coefficient conditions. As the excess air coefficient increases, the temperature in the main combustion zone rises, and the ignition distance of pulverized coal shortens. Under ultra‐low excess air coefficient conditions (such as 1.04), the unburned carbon content in fly ash reaches 5.50%, which is 3.23% higher than under the condition of 1.11, indicating poor pulverized coal burnout. When the excess air coefficient is close to the theoretical design value (such as 1.11), the carbon content in slag and the unburned carbon content in fly ash is relatively low (1.40% and 2.28%, respectively), indicating more complete combustion of pulverized coal. Additionally, the flue gas temperature at the air preheater outlet under this condition is relatively low; compared to the condition of an excess air coefficient of 1.07, the flue gas temperature is reduced by 6°C, thus reducing flue gas loss. Although the NOx concentration under the condition of an excess air coefficient of 1.11 is slightly higher, the quantity of cooling water is less. Flow field tracking of the powder verifies the flow path and characteristics of the primary air of the burners, and the results show that the primary air flow path of the burners is relatively concentrated, avoiding impingement on the water‐cooled walls and effectively preventing slagging issues on the water‐cooled walls. The research findings are of great significance for improving the operational performance and environmental protection level of coal‐fired boilers.
Bayesian Sequential Learning and Decision Making in Bike‐Sharing Systems
Authors: Aktekin Tevfik , Kim Bumsoo , Novoa Luis J. , Zafari Babak
Published: October 2024

In this article, we introduce modeling strategies for sequentially learning various types of demand uncertainty in bike‐share networks and propose methods for optimal station inventory management. Our approach is motivated by a real bike‐share network in Seoul, South Korea, with 40,000 bikes over a network of 2500 stations covering 25 municipal districts. In doing so, we consider novel Bayesian state space models that are suitable for fast and efficient learning of dynamically evolving system parameters for both intra‐day and inter‐week planning horizons. Our proposed approach provides an overall solution for operation managers where sequential parameter updating, demand prediction, and inventory decision making are addressed simultaneously and is straightforward to implement for the end‐user. We illustrate how our approach can be applied to a large metropolitan area like Seoul and discuss practical implementation insights.
Target Fisher: A Consensus Structure‐Based Target Prediction Tool, and its Application in the Discovery of Selective MAO‐B Inhibitors
Authors: Fernández Julián F. , Martinez Heredia Leandro , Caracciolo Fernando , Esses Daniel , Suarez Rodrigo , Siless Gaston , Perez Concepcion , Isabel Rodríguez‐Franco María , Fernández Lucía R. , Palermo Jorge A. , Lavecchia Martín
Published: October 2024

In this work we introduce Target Fisher, a consensus structure‐based target prediction tool that integrates molecular docking and machine learning with the aim to aid in the identification of potential biological targets and the optimization of the use of bioassays. Target Fisher uses per‐residue energy decomposition profiles extracted from docking poses as fingerprints to train target‐specific machine learning models. It provides predictions for a curated set of 37 protein targets, covering a diverse range of biological entities, and offers a user‐friendly interface accessible via a web server (https://gqc.quimica.unlp.edu.ar/targetfisher/). In this sense, Target Fisher is a valuable tool to aid organic and medicinal chemistry groups in target identification, drug discovery and drug repurposing. As a case study, we demonstrate the efficacy of Target Fisher by screening a small library of assorted natural products for targets relevant to neurodegenerative diseases, which resulted in the identification and experimental validation of selective inhibitors of monoamine oxidase B (MAO−B).
Research on Resonant Wireless Power Transfer With Hybrid Array Composite Shielding for Small Electronic Equipment
Authors: Chen Weihua , Cao Heyi , Yan Xiaoheng , Liu Yuepeng , Huang Zhishi
Published: October 2024

In order to reduce the damage and interference caused by electromagnetic leakage to human beings and equipment during wireless energy transmission, this paper proposes a resonant hybrid array composite shielding structure based on an LCC‐S compensation circuit at an operating frequency of 200 kHz. First, by analyzing the effects of the number of turns and turn spacing on the coil coupling coefficient, the optimal parameters of the circular main coil were determined and analysis of the effect of different inductance ratios on the transmission efficiency of the system using MATLAB. Second, the system transmission efficiency and magnetic field distribution of the system with an intermediate resonant coil and three different types of array coils are simulated, and the optimal location of the hybrid array is determined; nanocrystals are selected as the shielding material and integrated reactive and passive shielding methods to improve system transmission performance and reduce electromagnetic leakage. Finally, an experimental platform was set up to verify the system's transmission performance. The results showed that when the hybrid array was placed in the center of the transmission coil, the magnetic flux density decreased by 40.1% at 58 mm from the measurement center. At a transmission distance of 16 mm, the transmission efficiency reached 60.2%, which was 9.4% higher than the situation without shielding.
Investigating the Balance between Power Conversion Efficiency and Average Visible Transmittance for Semitransparent Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Noman Muhammad , Ullah Azmat , Jan Shayan Tariq , Khan Adnan Daud
Published: October 2024

The raising demand for sustainable energy in architecture has increased interest in building‐integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), with semi‐transparent perovskite cells (PSCs) emerging as an option. This research focuses on the critical balance between efficiency (PCE) and average visible transmittance (AVT) necessary for the development of semi‐transparent PSCs. Through comprehensive investigation, two perovskites, MAPbI3 and MAPbBr3, are examined for their respective advantages of high PCE and transparency. A series of simulations are conducted to analyze the impact of perovskite thickness on the properties of the PSC. The study analyzes the compatibility of different charge transport layers with perovskites to enhance carrier flow and reduce recombination at heterojunction. Furthermore, the effect of the work‐function of transparent conductive oxide electrode on the performance of the PSCs is investigated. The findings show that an optimal range of perovskite thickness that achieves PCE of over 10% while maintaining an AVT above 20% offers a viable solution for BIPV. For applications where visual transparency is crucial, the SnO2/MAPbBr3/CuSCN presents a compelling choice with AVT of 29.2% along with PCE of 10.72% at 440 nm thickness. In contrast, for applications requiring higher PCE, the SnO2/MAPbI3/CuSCN stands out with the PCE of 19.22% and AVT of 20% at 250 nm thickness.
Big data research is everyone's research—Making epilepsy data science accessible to the global community: Report of the ILAE big data commission
Authors: Josephson Colin B. , Aronica Eleonora , Beniczky Sandor , Boyce Danielle , Cavalleri Gianpiero , Denaxas Spiros , French Jacqueline , Jehi Lara , Koh Hyunyong , Kwan Patrick , McDonald Carrie , Mitchell James W. , Rampp Stefan , Sadleir Lynette , Sisodiya Sanjay M. , Wang Irene , Wiebe Samuel , Yasuda Clarissa , Youngerman Brett ,   the ILAE Big Data Commission
Published: October 2024

Epilepsy care generates multiple sources of high‐dimensional data, including clinical, imaging, electroencephalographic, genomic, and neuropsychological information, that are collected routinely to establish the diagnosis and guide management. Thanks to high‐performance computing, sophisticated graphics processing units, and advanced analytics, we are now on the cusp of being able to use these data to significantly improve individualized care for people with epilepsy. Despite this, many clinicians, health care providers, and people with epilepsy are apprehensive about implementing Big Data and accompanying technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). Practical, ethical, privacy, and climate issues represent real and enduring concerns that have yet to be completely resolved. Similarly, Big Data and AI‐related biases have the potential to exacerbate local and global disparities. These are highly germane concerns to the field of epilepsy, given its high burden in developing nations and areas of socioeconomic deprivation. This educational paper from the International League Against Epilepsy's (ILAE) Big Data Commission aims to help clinicians caring for people with epilepsy become familiar with how Big Data is collected and processed, how they are applied to studies using AI, and outline the immense potential positive impact Big Data can have on diagnosis and management.
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Authors: Zhu Bing‐Xuan , Zhu Cheng‐Yi , Qin Jing‐Kai , He Wen , Yue Lin‐Qing , Huang Pei‐Yu , Li Dong , Sun Ruo‐Yao , Ye Sheng , Du Yu , Sui Jie‐He , Li Ming‐Yu , Mao Jun , Zhen Liang , Xu Cheng‐Yan
Published: October 2024

A dual‐gate photothermoelectric detector with 2D SnP2Se6 channel demonstrates wide spectral photoresponse, high responsivity and detectivity in telecommunication bands.

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Evaluation of empathy levels of dentistry students in pediatric dentistry clinical practice education process
Authors: Arslan Gözde , Hazar Bodrumlu Ebru
Published: October 2024

Purpose/objectives

The objective of this study was to assess the empathy levels of dental students during their clinical practice training in pediatric dentistry and to evaluate various factors that influence changes in these empathy levels.

Methods

The study evaluated the empathy levels of a total of 350 students (70 third‐year, 140 fourth‐year, and 140 fifth‐year dental students) who received pediatric dentistry clinical practice training and/or observation between October 2022 and December 2023. The Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy‐Student Version was used to assess empathy levels before and after the training. The data were subjected to statistical analysis using the Mann‐Whitney U test, Kruskal‐Wallis test, Wilcoxon test, and Dunn Test (p < 0.05).

Results

The response rate of the participants was 92.10%. The highest empathy level was observed in third‐year students, while the lowest empathy level was observed in fifth‐year students. A statistically significant relationship was found between these two variables (p < 0.001). Additionally, the empathy level of female students was statistically significantly higher than that of male students (p < 0.001). Following the completion of the pediatric dentistry training, a statistically significant increase was observed in the empathy levels of the students in comparison to the baseline (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Empathy levels in students are found to be correlated with academic year, sibling count, and gender. It is of paramount importance to enhance empathy skills through training in order to foster the development of human‐oriented physicians capable of effective patient communication.
A benthic mesocosm system for long‐term multi‐factorial experiments applying predicted warming and realistic microplastic pollution scenarios
Authors: Mackay‐Roberts Nicholas , Bock Christian , Lannig Gisela , Lucassen Magnus , Paul Nina , Schaum Elisa , Pogoda Bernadette , Gerdts Gunnar
Published: October 2024

Predicting anthropogenic impacts on benthic marine ecosystems is of great importance for conservation. Climate change models have indicated that increasing seawater temperatures will drive shifts in the distribution of benthic organisms due to species‐specific thermal tolerances. When combined with other stressors such as pollutants, interactive effects may lead to even greater impacts. Microplastics (MP), as a marine pollutant, have been shown to elicit responses in organisms but often at concentrations far greater than experienced in the environment and with short‐term exposure times. Assessing long‐term interactive effects of MP pollution and ocean warming on benthic marine organisms has not been previously addressed. A unique mesocosm facility was constructed on the island of Helgoland, in the southern North Sea, to explore the combined impacts of these two factors. The multi‐factorial experimental system is composed of 16 independent benthic mesocosms, utilizing novel features and methods for the continuous generation of climate change and MP exposure scenarios, while retaining natural conditions for other environmental parameters. We provide a description of the system design and methods, followed by an operational performance assessment during a 10‐month exposure experiment with European flat oysters (Ostrea edulis), evaluated on the accuracy of exposure scenario control and the degree of realism achieved. We demonstrate the novel application of kinetic modeling for generating environmentally relevant MP exposure conditions (+ 25 MP L−1), and highlight the mesocosm systems suitability for studying chronic effects of MP pollution and ocean warming on benthic marine ecosystems through its real‐world application.
Structural Evolution of Microgels During Precipitation Polymerization Revealed by Light Scattering and Electrophoresis
Authors: Sato Yuji , Namioka Ryuji , Nishizawa Yuichiro , Suzuki Daisuke
Published: October 2024

While precipitation polymerization allows the synthesis of microgels with controlled functional‐group distributions, the structural development of these microgels during the polymerization process still remains unclear. In this study, microgels with different reactivity ratios between the monomer and charged co‐monomer are prepared by precipitation polymerization, and the evolution of their size, thermoresponsive behavior, and surface properties during polymerization are evaluated. In particular, the surface properties of the microgels are analyzed quantitatively using the softness parameter and the surface charge density is calculated using Ohshima's equation. The results allowed describing the structural changes of microgels during precipitation polymerization well and provided design guidelines for functional microgels with controlled functional group distributions.
Eco‐efficient recycling of carbon fibers from CFRP waste: A two‐step strategy by nanosecond pulsed laser
Authors: Li Zihao , Yang Yikai , Teng Zhan , Zhang Chenyang , Yang Wenfeng , Cao Yu , Li Shaolong
Published: October 2024

The accumulation of CFRP waste poses significant environmental challenges, necessitating the development of green and efficient recycling technologies. This study employs a nanosecond pulse laser (λ = 1064 nm) to develop a two‐step laser recycling method (LRM) for CFRP. By setting stepped process parameters, the method sequentially completes the separation and cleaning of the CFRP layers, recovering carbon fibers that retain their original weave structure in just 147 s. The study delves into the characteristics of the products from the rapid laser pyrolysis of the epoxy resin matrix and unveils the interaction mechanisms between the pyrolysis products and recycled carbon fiber (rCF). The study utilized MATLAB to simulate the effects of defocusing on the distribution of laser energy and proposed an optimization strategy that balances product quality with efficiency. The results indicate that laser‐induced thermal decomposition leads to unique microscopic damage patterns in rCF, including microcracks, etching, and delamination. Cleanliness and resin removal rate serve as crucial indicators for quantitatively optimizing the process. The optimized LRM increased efficiency by 110.20% and achieved a resin removal rate of 97.92%, while maintaining rCF tensile strength and modulus retention rates at 93.38% and 105.77%, respectively. The energy consumption was only 13.77% of that required to produce virgin carbon fibers. The LRM operates under mild conditions without the need for harsh reaction conditions, enabling ultra‐fast on‐site recycling and offering a promising solution to the challenges of CFRP waste recycling.

Highlights

Using lasers for rapid delamination and cleaning of CFRP carbon fiber layers.

The type and quantity of pyrolysis products significantly affect recovery quality.

Laser‐induced resin pyrolysis oxidation damages carbon fibers.

Laser energy compensation and defocusing strategies balance efficiency and quality.
Quality Evaluation of Kidney Tea Granules From Different Origins Based on TLC, HPLC Fingerprinting, and Quantitative Analysis Combined With Chemical Pattern Recognition
Authors: Li Yangling , Su Ying , Liang Yongjuan , Li Fangchan , Lin Ning , Jiang Lin , Lin Qinghua , Chen Qing
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Kidney tea is an essential herbal medicine. It is widely used to treat conditions such as urinary stones, gallstones, and rheumatoid arthritis. There is currently no standardized or widely accepted research strategy for evaluating the quality of kidney tea granules (KTGs) after granulation.

Objectives

In this study, we aim to establish a comprehensive strategy for evaluating the quality of KTGs produced from different sources of kidney tea.

Methods

A TLC combined with HPLC method was established to identify the chemical components in KTGs, and HPLC method was used to determine the contents of rosmarinic acid of KTGs. In order to distinguish samples and identify differential components, similarity analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), principal component analysis (PCA), and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) were conducted.

Results

TLC and HPLC detection confirmed three chemical components of KTGs, which are rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and lithospermic acid. HPLC fingerprint analysis revealed a total of seven common peaks in 15 batches of KTGs. Similarity analysis showed that the similarity of all 15 batches of KTGs was greater than 0.969. The peak areas of the seven common peaks were identified by chemical pattern recognition, and the results showed that most of the KTGs from different origins were clustered together, with small differences between them. The PCA and OPLS‐DA results showed that two principal components can represent 82.638% of the common peaks of KTGs, among which peak 5 represents rosmarinic acid, which is the main differential biomarker of KTGs from different regions. Quantitative analysis of rosmarinic acid in KTG samples was performed using HPLC fingerprint conditions and the content of rosmarinic acid in 15 batches of KTGs samples was measured to be between 8.01–14.61 mg/g.

Conclusion

This study combines TLC, HPLC, and chemometrics to establish a stable and reliable method that can quickly and effectively identify the components of KTGs, accurately quantify known components in KTGs, and provide reference for the quality evaluation of KTGs.
Synergistic effect of polymer‐modified rejuvenator and fresh asphalt on road performance of hot in‐place recycling styrene–butadiene–styrene‐modified asphalt mixtures
Authors: Xia Xu , Tang Dong , Wang Pengfei , Zhao Yongli
Published: October 2024

To enhance the road performance of hot in‐place recycling (HIR) styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS)‐modified asphalt mixtures, this paper investigates the recycling effects of polymer‐modified rejuvenator (PMRA) and fresh SBS‐modified asphalt under synergistic conditions, comparing them with a conventional commercial rejuvenator. The rheological properties of the recycled asphalt binder were assessed using a dynamic shear rheometer and bending beam rheometer. Microscopic characteristics were examined through fluorescence microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. Road performance was evaluated at the mixture level using rutting tests, low‐temperature bending beam tests and semi‐circular bending tests. The results indicate that 6% PMRA not only enhances the low‐temperature performance and fatigue resistance of recycled asphalt binder but also maintains excellent high‐temperature performance with low stress sensitivity. Furthermore, PMRA recycled mixtures can reduce rutting depth and significantly improve maximum bending strain and fracture energy, compensating for the low‐temperature crack resistance deficiency of HIR mixtures. Despite being a form of physical regeneration, PMRA incorporates aromatic oil and softeners to replenish volatile light components and provides a swelling environment. The supplemental SBS helps reconstruct the damaged polymer network. However, adding fresh asphalt may dilute the recycling effect and reduce the degree of fusion between aged and new asphalt, ultimately decreasing fatigue life. Therefore, this paper recommends 20% fresh asphalt content and 6% PMRA. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Revealing the Hygroscopic Behavior of Ultrahigh Nitrogen Content Cyclo‐Pentazolate Salts
Authors: Shi Lei , Wang Pengfei , Jiang Jun , Gao Chao , Zhang Chong , Du Yang , Sun Chengguo , Hu Bingcheng
Published: October 2024

Three representative cyclo‐pentazolate salts including N2H5+N5−, NH3OH+N5− and NH4+N5−, are highly favored for their ultrahigh nitrogen content (80–96%). However, their ambiguous nature has severely restricted the application exploration. Herein, the relationships between humidity and moisture content of salt were established by quantitative analysis. Among the three salts, the hygroscopic ability has the following order: NH3OH+N5−>NH4+N5−>N2H5+N5−. Especially in the range of 40% RH −60% RH, the NH3OH+N5− has a high sensitivity to water, and the absorbed moisture content can be as high as 20.8% at 60% RH. When the relative humidity exceeds 60% RH, the hygroscopic rate of NH3OH+N5− rises sharply, at 80% RH, NH3OH+N5− will absorb excess moisture and turns into liquid form. After treating NH3OH+N5− at 40% RH, the very sensitive friction sensitivity (FS) and impact sensitivity (IS) of dried NH3OH+N5− (FS=20 N, IS=2 J) will change into insensitive salt (FS>360 N, IS>40 J). The higher moisture content in NH3OH+N5−, the lower the thermal stability, its thermal decomposition temperature (103.22°C) is 3.24°C lower than that of dry salt (106.46°C) at 75% RH (moisture content is 30.2%). The other two salts N2H5+N5− and NH4+N5− have the similar properties. Molecular dynamics simulation was further applied to explain the strong hygroscopicity of salts.
Control Method of Upper Limb Rehabilitation Exoskeleton for Better Assistance: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Wang Wendong , Ren Huizhao , Ci Zelin , Yuan Xiaoqing , Zhang Peng , Wang Chenyang
Published: October 2024

The upper limb rehabilitation exoskeleton is a robotic‐arm‐like device that fits the human upper limb and assists in movement, having the potential to be widely used in medical practice. The control method of the upper limb rehabilitation exoskeleton system is an important factor that affects the effectiveness of its rehabilitation training assistance and is also the focus of research in this field. In this article, we divide the control method of the upper limb rehabilitation exoskeleton into two levels, the high‐level control mode (including passive mode, active mode, and ANN, etc.) and the low‐level controller. The design of the controller aims to meet the requirements of the control mode but faces difficulties such as complex dynamic models of the system, unknown external disturbances, and motion intention recognition to achieve accurate motion trajectory tracking and flexible human–robot interaction. Based on relevant literature in the field of upper limb rehabilitation exoskeleton control methods in recent years, we analyze the rehabilitation training control modes that researchers aim to achieve, as well as the work they have done in controller design to achieve these control modes. We also propose potential research directions for achieving better exoskeleton‐assisted training effects.
Digital sustainability and eco‐environmental sustainability: A review of emerging technologies, resource challenges, and policy implications
Authors: Meinhold Roman , Wagner Christoph , Dhar Bablu Kumar
Published: October 2024

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the intersection between digital sustainability (DS) and eco‐environmental sustainability (EES), focusing on the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, electric vehicles (EVs), and cryptocurrencies. The study critically examines the sustainability concerns arising from the increasing demand for digital infrastructure and the depletion of essential natural resources, including tantalum, indium, cobalt, and lithium. Through an interdisciplinary approach, the review evaluates the ethical, technological, and policy implications of integrating DS within the EES framework. It emphasizes the significance of innovative governance and cross‐sector collaboration to address the environmental trade‐offs and digital rebound effects linked with these technologies. Additionally, the review proposes strategies for mitigating the ecological impacts of digital transformation and identifies crucial research gaps, particularly in resource management and long‐term sustainability. The findings aim to guide the alignment of DS with EES, fostering a more balanced and resilient path towards sustainable development. This study offers actionable insights and policy recommendations for industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers committed to advancing sustainable digital transformation.
High Performance‐Low Cost‐Chemiresitive BaTiO3 Nanospheres Based CO2 Gas Sensor for Air Quality Monitoring
Authors: Rodrigues Jolina , Shimpi Navinchandra Gopal
Published: October 2024

Spherical shaped Barium titanate (BaTiO3) nanospheres was synthesized, using co‐precipitate technique. The as‐synthesized nanospheres was discovered to be discriminatory in terms of sensing carbon dioxide (CO2) gas. The structural parameters like, shape, optical properties, morphology, and thermal stability were explored using XRD, FT‐IR, UV‐Visible, EDS and FE‐SEM. Spherical shaped BaTiO3 nanospheres material have the highest response (63 %) for CO2 gas. CO2 gas reaction and recovery times were 23.5 and 20.3 seconds, respectively. The CO2 gas concentration climbs from 1 to 50 ppm, reaction to gas sensors increases. CO2 gas has higher selectivity for BaTiO3 nanospheres as compared to other gases like carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and hydrogen (H2). The repeatability of BaTiO3 nanospheres was researched for 42 days and discovered to be impressive.
A Comprehensive Review of Physicochemical Properties of Biomass‐Derived Oxygenates and Reformulated Gasoline
Authors: Kashyap Pinki , Farhan Elahi Shariq , Al Mesfer Mohammed K. , Nigam K. D. P , Ahmad Ejaz
Published: October 2024

Biorenewable energy resources can be crucial in neutralizing the transportation sector's greenhouse gas emissions. However, the direct use of biorenewable fuels in existing gasoline engines is challenging and requires several modifications. On the contrary, blending compatible biorenewable fuels in limited amounts as an additive in conventional gasoline does not necessarily require any modifications in the engine. Thus, the present review critically asses the physiochemical and fuel properties of biomass‐derived oxygenates such as alcohols, ether, furans, glycerine derivatives, alkyl levulinates, bio‐oils, and esters to understand their full potential as a gasoline additive. Properties such as research octane number (RON), motor octane number (MON), density, volatility characteristics, calorific value, and viscosity of the bio‐based oxygenates have been discussed. Moreover, emission characteristics such as NOx, CO, unburnt, HC, and CO2 of oxygenates reformulated gasoline have been discussed.
Hepatoprotective Activity of Gingko biloba‐Mediated TiO2 NPs Against Acetaminophen‐Induced Albino Rats‐ In Vitro Studies
Authors: Zhou Yuyang , Tang Juncheng , Tan Xiaokai , You Yulai
Published: October 2024

Numerous effects of “titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs)” have been described and significantly utilized in complementary drugs for many decades. This study is conducted to analyze the therapeutic efficiency of TiO2 NPs against the acetaminophen‐(AMP) induced toxicity. TiO2 NPs were initially prepared using Ginkgo biloba leaf extract as reducing and stabilizing agent. The prepared TiO2 NPs were studied using various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. AFM, TEM, XRD, and DLS studies have confirmed the formation of TiO2 NPs with size between 20 to 60 nm with negative surface charge of about −12 mV. Later, hepatoprotective studies were performed by administering AMP to albino mice only once at a dosage of 2 g/kg p.o. Post 24 h of AMP intoxication, the animals were treated orally with three different doses of TiO2 NPs (150, 100, and 50 mg/kg) or silymarin at an amount of 50 mg/kg p.o., administered only once. Post 24 h of last treatment, all the animals were surrendered to death. The group of mice administered with AMP displayed a substantial raise in the serum alkaline phosphatase (560 ± 31.90), lactate dehydrogenase (167 ± 10.17), aspartate amino transferase (251 ± 14.82), alanine amino transferase (326 + 18.96), bilirubin (2.2 ± 1.066), cholesterol (96.7 ± 6.2), and albumin (6.0 ± 1.27) in serum, which signified the liver damage. A considerably depleted level of glutathione (5.4 + 1.24) was detected in the mice intoxicated with AMP. The activities of catalase (33.2 ± 2.66) and superoxide dismutase (36 ± 2.93) declined after exposure to acetaminophen, resulting in oxidative stress in liver. The performance of adenosine triphosphatase (901 ± 50.7) and glucose‐6‐phosphatase (3.9 + 1.15) were considerably inhibited after administrating with AMP. On treating with TiO2 NPs, all the variables reversed significantly towards regular levels and were noticed to be nontoxic. The groups treated with TiO2 NPs exhibited less activity of ALT, AST, LDH, and SALP in serum, indicating the protective effect of TiO2 NPs to prevent liver damage. Exposure with TiO2 NPs inverted the cholesterol, albumin, and bilirubin levels towards normal, which is similar to silymarin treatment. TiO2 NPs exhibited a substantial change in tissue and blood biochemical parameters with that of control groups. These results indicate that TiO2 NPs possesses hepatoprotective properties that mitigate the hepatotoxicity induced by acetaminophen in rats. Hence, TiO2 NPs can be further utilized in the preparation of medicine against hepatic and renal diseases, post further clinical and preclinical studies.
Cotton Fabric Coating by Cationic Starches to Aim for Salt‐Free Reactive Dyeing
Authors: Wurm Florian , Mann Karl‐Juergen , Seidl Bernhard , Kozich Martin , Bechtold Thomas , Pham Tung
Published: October 2024

Cationic starch (CatS) coating of cellulose fabrics enables salt‐free reactive dyeing. However, the relation of the degree of substitution and CatS concentration in the dyeing procedure are open issues. Accordingly, three cationic starches of increasing degree of substitution were used at different concentrations for the coating of cotton fabrics. Fabrics were evaluated for stiffness, dye uptake, dye exhaustion, wash fastness and nitrogen content.

With an increasing degree of substitution coating solutions become more viscous, resulting in increased wet pick‐up and less stiff coated fabrics. These fabrics show increasing dye absorption and color generation. Due to the molecular size of the cationic starch, yarn/fiber ring dyeing is supposed present. Specifically, color generation can be adjusted by initial cationic starch coating concentration. Above 5 % CatS concentration ceases to have an increasing coloration effect. Pre‐treating a cellulose fabric with approximately 2.2 % CatS (Ds=0.7) enables similar coloration to a standard reactive dyeing protocol. Light fastness is reduced by 1–1.5 compared to salt‐based reactive dyeing. Rub fastness decreases by 1–2 only for higher substituted cationic starches (Ds=0.7). Nitrogen analysis reveals that a share of the CatS elutes off the fabrics into the dye bath.