Direct Output Research Articles

Enzyme‐Nanozyme Cascade Flow Reactor Synergy with Deep Learning for Differentiation and Point‐of‐Care Testing of Multiple Organophosphorus Pesticides

AbstractCombining nanotechnology with biocatalysts, the construction of a cascade continuous flow reactor is a cutting‐edge strategy to enhance the stability and efficiency of catalysis. In this study, C60@MOF‐545‐Fe nanozyme is synthesized by utilizing fullerene (C60) as a guest encapsulated inside a metal‐organic framework (MOF‐545‐Fe), the unique host‐guest interaction optimizes the oxidase (OXD)‐ and peroxidase (POD)‐like activities, based on which a cascading catalytic strategy is proposed without external energy input. Simultaneously, C60@MOF‐545‐Fe offers the potential to effectively flow at the nanoscale through its unique nanostructure cavity and spatially confined environment. Therefore, the AChE/C60@MOF‐545‐Fe enzyme‐nanozyme continuous flow reactor is constructed by combining C60@MOF‐545‐Fe with acetylcholinesterase (AChE) through supramolecular interactions. Notably, the reactor not only achieves the simultaneous detection of glyphosate, omethoate, and paraoxon but also efficiently differentiates these three organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) by applying the differences in the responses of the three array channels. Subsequently, a portable platform is developed utilizing the YOLO v5‐OPs model based on deep learning, enabling the direct output fitting equation through terminals to achieve rapid point‐of‐care testing (POCT) of OPs. This work not only provides a promising strategy for hazard detection systems but also opens up new avenues for the design of technologies based on flow reactors.

A novel hydraulic swing actuator with high torque density for legged robots

Abstract Hydraulic swing cylinders have tremendous potential in legged robots for their direct heavy torque output to the joints. However, the practical usage faces the obstacles such as internal leakage, oversized shape, and redundant weight, which limit the dynamic performance of legged robots. To solve the above problems, this paper proposes a novel swing hydraulic actuator with a compact size and high torque-to-mass ratio by bending the hydraulic linear actuator, named a circular swing actuator. First, the basic principle of the circular swing cylinder is introduced, then the mechanical structure considering machinability is given, and the ultimate dimension is φ153×70 mm3. The mechanical properties of the circular swing cylinder are verified by numerical simulation and experiments. Its torque-to-weight ratio reaches 471.7 Nm/kg, and the lower internal leakage and zero external leakage are satisfied with the customized sealing system. The step response and position control experiments are conducted, and the frequency and tracking accuracy meet the demands of hydraulically actuated legged robot joints. The proposed hydraulic circular swing actuator offers a good joint actuator choice to design a legged robot with agile motion ability.

Numerical study on the effect of initial detonation points on energy output structure

Abstract A numerical simulation was employed to investigate the influence of initiation modes on the energy output structure of cylindrical explosives. Based on the numerical simulation results of the response behaviours of identical explosive configurations under different initiation scenarios, including one-end initiation, two-end detonation, centre point detonation, and axial detonation, combined with the development and propagation rules of detonation waves as well as the response behaviour of the shell, the temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of the output energy distribution of explosives under various initiation modes were obtained. The research findings provide a theoretical foundation for the design of explosive initiation points, the regulation of the directional energy output of warheads, and the enhancement of energy utilization efficiency.

A Multifunctional Hydrogel with Multimodal Self-Powered Sensing Capability and Stable Direct Current Output for Outdoor Plant Monitoring Systems

HighlightsA simple and scalable fabricated hydrogel with multiple functionalities to realize self-sustainable outdoor monitoring solely by it for large-scale applications in precision agriculture.Stable direct-current output without requirement on stochastic or temporal environmental energies, achieving an energy density of 1.36 × 107 J m–3 with continuous operation of 56.25 days in normal outdoor environment.Self-powered noninvasive leaf relative water content monitoring and environmental sensing to evaluate plant health status with high durability and self-recoverability in severe environments.

2D Ti3C2Tx-MXene and its superstructures as dual-function electrodes for triboelectric nanogenerators for self-powered electronics

Selecting distinct materials to design a tribopositive and tribonegative electrode pair for a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device is a challenging task, as the interfacial electric field causes surface charges to diffuse into the air or within the material itself, leads to charge deterioration. To address these challenges, there is a strong demand for engineered materials and electrode designs that enable effective charge accumulation and trapping to regulate their performance optimally. Herein, we introduce a unique electrode design for a contact-separation (CS) mode triboelectric nanogenerator TENG featuring multilayered Ti3C2Tx MXene/Kapton as tribonegative electrodes. For the tribopositive electrode, we developed an innovative synthesis strategy to create MXene-seeded layered TiO2 superstructures/PVA-based tribopositive electrodes. After optimization of both triboelectric layers, the optimized TENG showed an open-circuit voltage (Voc) ∼ 120 V, short-circuit current (Isc) ∼ 25 μA, and power density of 5.66 W·m−2. The surface terminations groups in highly conductive black MXene nanosheets and the oxygen vacancies in TiO2-layered superstructures provide abundant charge accumulation and trapping sites due to organized multilayered structures at both ends. Moreover, the induced polarization in the tribopositive layer due to the hybrid film could further hinder the free electrons’ drift to the bottom electrode, preventing charge recombination. The optimized TENG was tested as a pressure sensor to monitor different sensitive physiological movements of the human body. Further application of the designed TENG has been revealed by humidity sensing characteristics, powering LEDs, stopwatches, pedometers, and swiftly charging micro-capacitors by utilizing direct output power. By employing a controlled synthesis strategy, our approach leverages the unique properties of MXenes to function as both tribo-positive and tribonegative electrodes within the same device. This dual-function capability simplifies material selection and enhances overall device performance, presenting a transformative solution for next-generation TENG applications.

Little influence of DNA quality on the direct sequencing output of non-human primates’ faecal samples

DNA samples selected for long read sequencing (LRS) are routinely required to be ‘pure’ with high DNA concentration. Hence the usefulness of samples with substandard DNA quality for LRS is unknown. We aim to perform de-novo assembly of Adenovirus sequenced from non-human primate (NHP) faeces using the Oxford Nanopore technologies (ONT), an LRS platform. Guided by initial conventional PCR screening, we performed ONT sequencing on 34 Adenovirus positive DNA samples, without prior selection based on faeces freshness level or DNA quality. Non-parametric correlation analysis showed that ONT sequencing outputs is not significantly associated (p > 0.05) with DNA concentrations, faeces freshness levels and the OD ratios of A260/A280 and A260/A230. This indicated that conventional DNA quality parameters may not be the most critical factors in determining the suitability of samples for ONT sequencing. A total of 61.76 % (21/34) of the positive-by-PCR-screening samples yielded Adenovirus reads while 38.24 % (13/34) did not in the PCR-free ONT workflow, although rarefaction analysis showed that sequencing saturation was achieved by all samples. Among the 21 samples with adenovirus reads, ten resulted in at least one Adenovirus contig by the Flye assembler while nine did not and two samples had only a single Adenovirus read. Identity similarity above 90 % in conventional PCR screening may help in selecting ONT positive samples.

Mapping and assessing the future provision of lake ecosystem services in Lithuania

Lakes supply multiple ecosystem services (ES), key to supporting socio-ecologic systems and human well-being. In the context of future land use and climate changes, it is imperative to anticipate potential impacts on lake ES supply. Hence, studies that deal with future lake ES, such as mapping, are lacking. In this work, we mapped and assessed the future supply of three ES: (1) maintenance of nursery conditions (nursery ES), (2) maintenance of chemical conditions of freshwaters (nutrient regulation ES), and (3) direct and indirect cultural outputs (recreation ES) in Lithuania. Four future scenarios were utilised, integrating land use and climate changes: A0 - business as usual; A1-urbanisation; A2: land abandonment and afforestation; and A3 - agricultural intensification. The projected year was 2050, following the intermediate Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP 4.5). The future scenarios were simulated using the open-source software Dinamica EGO based on a 6-step modelling framework. Statistical differences among the scenarios and ES were analysed by applying a Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA test. Spatial analysis was done by performing a Moran's I and Getis-Ord (Gi∗) hotspot analysis. The results showed significant differences in nursery and nutrient regulation ES. The highest supply in nursery ES was observed for the A0 scenario. For nutrient regulation ES, the lowest ES supply was identified for the A1 scenario and for recreation ES, the highest was found in the A2 scenario. The eastern and northeastern regions of Lithuania showed a high ES supply. Hot spots were only identified in the eastern region. These regions are associated with a high area covered by forests and protected areas. The central region shows a low ES supply, identified as a cold spot where the agricultural landscape dominates. The results of the PCA analysis revealed an association between nursery and recreation ES. Nutrient regulation was not associated with the other two ES. Mapping and assessing the impact of future scenarios is vital to anticipating the potential dynamics of lake ES, especially in the context of climate change. This information is essential in the context of environmental management, helping decision-makers to ensure a sustainable ES supply and contributing to human wellbeing.

Characterization of direct Purkinje cell outputs to the brainstem.

Purkinje cells (PCs) primarily project to cerebellar nuclei but also directly innervate the brainstem. Some PC-brainstem projections have been described previously, but most have not been thoroughly characterized. Here we use a PC-specific cre line to anatomically and electrophysiologically characterize PC projections to the brainstem. PC synapses are surprisingly widespread, with the highest densities found in the vestibular and parabrachial nuclei. However, there are pronounced regional differences in synaptic densities within both the vestibular and parabrachial nuclei. Large optogenetically-evoked PC-IPSCs are preferentially observed in subregions with the highest densities of PC synapses, suggesting that PCs selectively influence these areas and the behaviors they regulate. Unexpectedly, the pontine central gray and nearby subnuclei also contained a low density of PC synapses, and large PC-IPSCs are observed in a small fraction of cells. We combined electrophysiological recordings with immunohistochemistry to assess the molecular identities of two putative PC targets: PC synapses onto mesencephalic trigeminal neurons were not observed even though these cells are in close proximity to PC boutons. PC synapses onto locus coeruleus neurons are exceedingly rare or absent, even though previous studies concluded that PCs are a major input to these neurons. The availability of a highly selective cre line for PCs allowed us to study functional synapses, while avoiding complications that can accompany the use of viral approaches. We conclude that PCs directly innervate numerous brainstem nuclei, but only inhibit a small fraction of cells in many nuclei. This suggests that PCs target cell types with specific behavioral roles in brainstem regions.

Future drought overestimations due to no constraints of CO2 physiological effect and land-atmosphere coupling on potential evapotranspiration

Abstract Various offline drought indices have been widely used to project dryness/wetness and drought changes. However, the results derived from these indices often differ from or even contradict observations and direct projections made by coupled climate models. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate this scientific debate thoroughly and identify the potential causes. This study adopts a water demand-side perspective, focusing on potential evapotranspiration (PET), to address such controversy. Employing the Standardized Precipitation-Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), three PET models including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations’ report 56 (FAO-56) Penman-Monteith (PM) model, a corrected FAO-56 PM model incorporating CO2 physiological effect (PMCO2), and a land-atmosphere coupled PET model (PET-LAC) are further compared. Despite projected increases in PET across most land areas, the PM shows the most pronounced increases among these PET models. Compared to PMCO2 and PET-LAC, the PM model predicts the most significant drying, with the 3-month SPEI decreasing by 0.50±0.23 /yr. Additionally, it projects the most substantial drought intensification, with increases in areas, intensity, and duration of 28±6.9%, 0.70±0.20/yr, and 2.90±0.83 month/yr, respectively. Meanwhile, these projections correspond to the most extensive area percentages, with 78.5±10% for drying, 94.8±7.2% for drought intensity, and 93.6±7.9% for drought duration. These findings imply that the commonly used PM model overestimates future drought conditions. Differences and contradictions between the drought projections from PM-based offline indices and direct climate model outputs can be partly attributed to the omission of CO2 physiological effect and land-atmosphere coupling constraints in the PM model. This study highlights the importance of improving PET models by incorporating these constraints, thereby providing valuable insights for enhancing the accuracy of future drought assessments.

Differential impact of optogenetic stimulation of direct and indirect pathways from dorsolateral and dorsomedial striatum on motor symptoms in Huntington's disease mice

The alterations in the basal ganglia circuitry are core pathological hallmark in Huntington's Disease (HD) and traditionally linked to its sever motor symptoms. Recently it was shown that optogenetic stimulation of cortical afferences to the striatum is able to reverse motor symptoms in HD mice. However, the specific contribution of the direct and indirect striatal output pathways from the dorsolateral (DLS) and dorsomedial striatum (DMS) to the motor phenotype is still not clear. Here, we aim to uncover the contributions of these striatal subcircuits to motor control in wild type (WT) and HD mice by using the symptomatic R6/1 mice. We systematically evaluated locomotion, exploratory behavior, and motor learning effects of the selective optogenetic stimulation of D1 or A2A expressing neurons (direct and indirect pathway, respectively), in DLS or DMS. Bilateral optogenetic stimulation of the direct pathway from DLS and the indirect pathway from DMS resulted in subtle locomotor enhancements, while unaltering exploratory behavior. Additionally, bilateral stimulation of the indirect pathway from the DLS improved performance in the accelerated rotarod task, suggesting a role in motor learning. In contrast, in HD mice, stimulation of these pathways did not modulate any of these behaviors. Overall, this study highlights that selective stimulation of direct and indirect pathways from DLS and DMS have subtle impact in locomotion, exploratory activity or motor learning. The lack of responses in HD mice also suggests that strategies involving cortico-striatal circuits rather than striatal output circuits might be a better strategy for managing motor symptoms in movement disorders.

Adaptive Neural Control for Hysteretic Nonlinear Systems With Hysteresis Neural Direct Inverse Compensator and Its Application.

Aiming at high precision control for a class of hysteretic nonlinear systems, a new hysteresis direct inverse compensator-based adaptive output feedback control scheme is designed in this article. First, a novel long short-term memory neural network (LSTMNN)-based hysteresis inverse compensator is established to compensate the asymmetric hysteresis nonlinearity, where the LSTMNN is used as the prediction mechanism for model operator weights, rather than the overall mapping of hysteresis input and output. Second, by designing the modified high-gain K-Filter states observer and the error transformed function, the unmeasurable states are estimated with arbitrarily small estimation error and the prespecified tracking performance is achieved. Lastly, the biconical dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) motion platform is constructed. Then, the effectiveness of the proposed LSTMNN-based hysteresis inverse compensator and control scheme are verified on the experimental platform. The experimental results illustrate the effectiveness and advantages of proposed control scheme.

A revolutionary approach to automate labelling of CAD files

Abstract This innovation represents a significant advancement in enhancing processing efficiency when dealing with engineering drawings. Traditionally, the review of customer drawings needs to be executed by experienced experts before manufacture. The identification and labelling of key features were reliant on human intervention for subsequent Design for Manufacturability (DFM) or G-code programming. However, the previous method not only consumed valuable time but also introduced the potential for human errors. In this context, we introduce a high-efficiency technology for recognizing engineering drawings, automatically labelling key features, and converting unstructured data into structured data. It is noteworthy that this technology distinguishes itself from traditional methods, such as R-CNN or similar neural network approaches and differs from pre-labeled engineering drawings reliant on experts manually inputting keywords for dimensions or layers. This work is a vital step towards the realization of intelligent manufacturing. For instance, our customers can now review engineering drawings online and receive immediate feedback. This online interaction is facilitated by processing structured data, a direct output of this presented technology, with other specific modules. Furthermore, the structured data seamlessly integrates into subsequent manufacturing procedures, including notifying the supply chain, generating 3D drawings, and CNC programming. In conclusion, this technology showcases its significance in advancing our vision of intelligent manufacturing at ZY Corp.

Characterization of analogue Monolithic Active Pixel Sensor test structures implemented in a 65 nm CMOS imaging process

Analogue test structures were fabricated using the Tower Partners Semiconductor Co. CMOS 65 nm ISC process. The purpose was to characterize and qualify this process and to optimize the sensor for the next generation of Monolithic Active Pixels Sensors for high-energy physics. The technology was explored in several variants which differed by: doping levels, pixel geometries and pixel pitches (10–25 μm). These variants have been tested following exposure to varying levels of irradiation up to 3 MGy and 1016 1 MeV neq cm−2. Here the results from prototypes that feature direct analogue output of a 4 × 4 pixel matrix are reported, allowing the systematic and detailed study of charge collection properties. Measurements were taken both using 55Fe X-ray sources and in beam tests using minimum ionizing particles. The results not only demonstrate the feasibility of using this technology for particle detection but also serve as a reference for future applications and optimizations.

Erratum: Figge et al., "Differential Activation States of Direct Pathway Striatal Output Neurons during l-DOPA-Induced Dyskinesia Development".

Erratum: Figge et al., "Differential Activation States of Direct Pathway Striatal Output Neurons during l-DOPA-Induced Dyskinesia Development".

The direct energy rebound effects for manufacturing and service sectors in China: Evidence from firm-level estimations

China has implemented a variety of energy efficiency policies to achieve energy saving and carbon abatement targets. While the national carbon market has been launched and China has opted to give market-oriented policies a greater role in achieving net zero, energy efficiency policies still constitute a significant portion of the policy mix. However, the substantial drawback of energy efficiency policies compared to carbon trading, the rebound effect, has made energy efficiency policies debatable. It is crucial to precisely understand the magnitude of the rebound effect to design and implement effective energy policies. Our study estimates and compares the direct energy rebound and output expansion effects in China's manufacturing and service sectors using firm-level data from 2013 to 2016 and employing panel regression analysis. We also analyze the impact of firm characteristics such as ownership status, geographical location, and industry type on enterprises' rebound effects. We found a 33.5% direct rebound effect and a 19.3% output expansion effect in the manufacturing sector. In the service sector, the direct energy rebound effect was 57.9%, a larger one than the manufacturing sector. We also estimate direct energy rebound effects for key manufacturing and service enterprises. Our findings reveal that key manufacturing enterprises exhibit a larger rebound effect compared to the overall manufacturing sector, while key service enterprises show a smaller rebound effect than the overall service sector. Public, foreign, and heavy service enterprises show a smaller energy rebound effect, while northeastern manufacturing and service enterprises exhibit a larger rebound effect. We suggest that China's carbon market should also cover key service enterprises. For those below the threshold, enhancing energy management is essential to mitigate the rebound effect. Aligning with carbon emission cap targets, rather than relying solely on energy efficiency policies, could more effectively achieve energy savings and carbon abatement.

Automated Immunoprecipitation, Sample Preparation, and Individual Ion Mass Spectrometry Platform for Proteoforms.

Charge detection mass spectrometry (CDMS) is a well-established technique that provides direct mass spectral outputs regardless of analyte heterogeneity or molecular weight. Over the past few years, it has been demonstrated that CDMS can be multiplexed on Orbitrap analyzers utilizing an integrated approach termed individual ion mass spectrometry (I2MS). To further increase adaptability, robustness, and throughput of this technique, here, we present a method that utilizes numerous integrated equipment components including a Kingfisher system, SampleStream platform, and Q Exactive mass spectrometer to provide a fully automated workflow for immunoprecipitation, sample preparation, injection, and subsequent I2MS acquisition. This automated workflow has been applied to a cohort of 58 test subjects to determine individualized patient antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 antigens. Results from a range of serum donors include 37 subject I2MS spectra that contained a positive COVID-19 antibody response and 21 I2MS spectra that contained a negative COVID-19 antibody response. This high-throughput automated I2MS workflow can currently process over 100 samples per week and is general for making immunoprecipitation-MS workflows achieve proteoform resolution.

The immediate metabolomic effects of whole-genome duplication in the greater duckweed, Spirodela polyrhiza.

In plants, whole-genome duplication (WGD) is a common mutation with profound evolutionary potential. Given the costs associated with a superfluous genome copy, polyploid establishment is enigmatic. However, in the right environment, immediate phenotypic changes following WGD can facilitate establishment. Metabolite abundances are the direct output of the cell's regulatory network and determine much of the impact of environmental and genetic change on the phenotype. While it is well known that an increase in the bulk amount of genetic material can increase cell size, the impact of gene dosage multiplication on the metabolome remains largely unknown. We used untargeted metabolomics on four genetically distinct diploid-neoautotetraploid pairs of the greater duckweed, Spirodela polyrhiza, to investigate how WGD affects metabolite abundances per cell and per biomass. Autopolyploidy increased metabolite levels per cell, but the response of individual metabolites varied considerably. However, the impact on metabolite level per biomass was restricted because the increased cell size reduced the metabolite concentration per cell. Nevertheless, we detected both quantitative and qualitative effects of WGD on the metabolome. Many effects were strain-specific, but some were shared by all four strains. The nature and impact of metabolic changes after WGD depended strongly on the genotype. Dosage effects have the potential to alter the plant metabolome qualitatively and quantitatively, but were largely balanced out by the reduction in metabolite concentration due to an increase in cell size in this species.

The impact of energy (Electricity) losses on load capacity factor: A dynamic ARDL-based evidence from Pakistan

The energy-environment interplay has raised significant concerns among policymakers and experts, with the global shift towards renewable energy being hailed as a key solution to reduce pollution emissions. However, in addition to energy production, the efficient transmission and distribution of electricity is also important which also poses considerable challenges to environmental sustainability. This study aims to investigate the effect of electricity losses on environmental sustainability measured by load capacity factor (LCF). This study uses the DARDL (DARDL) method and Kernel-based Regularized Least Squares (KRLS) to analyze the influence of electricity losses, foreign direct investment (FDI), economic growth, and industrial output on LCF in Pakistan from 1981 to 2022. The electricity losses significantly undermine environmental sustainability by reducing LCF. However, FDI positively influences LCF, but economic growth and industrial output exert a detrimental effect. Additionally, the study observes that both positive and negative counterfactual 10 % shocks in electricity losses result in negative and positive impacts on LCF. Whereas, 10 % positive counterfactual shocks in FDI positively affect LCF. KRLS analysis confirms the robustness of the DARDL estimates. The study underscores that efficient energy transmission and distribution is pivotal in safeguarding environmental sustainability.

Two-photon pumped random lasing in MAPbBr3 with directional output for far-field applications

We investigate the random lasing properties of polycrystalline MAPbBr3 grown in a hollow fiber. Coupling of the random lasing on the inner wall of the hollow fiber into the annular cylinder and guided by the inner surface of hollow cavity enable directional output of the random lasing emission. The polycrystalline MAPbBr3 was grown by the capillary effect, when one end of the hollow fiber was dipped into the precursor solution. A two-photon pumping scheme was employed, where femtosecond pulses centered at about 800 nm was focused onto the MAPbBr3 polycrystals through the side wall of the hollow fiber. Random lasing was achieved due to the strong optical scattering by the interfaces within the polycrystals on the inner wall of the hollow fiber. The random lasing output was re-collimated into a roughly parallel beam with a circular transverse mode, which favors far-field applications of random lasers. Two-photon pumping enables larger penetration depth and larger excitation volume than single-photon pumping, so that strong lasing spot can also be observed in the center area of the output laser beam.

Performance-enhanced tribovoltaic nanogenerator by regulating carrier transportation with an asymmetric heterostructure

The tribovoltaic nanogenerator (TVNG) is emerging as a promising circuit-integrative energy harvester, with notable advantages like direct current output and large current density. Nevertheless, the research on optimizing charge excitation and carrier transportation remains deficient. In this work, we report an alternative approach for practically promoting the output performance of silicon (Si)-based TVNG. A well-designed asymmetric heterostructure is achieved by inserting an appropriate interlayer between the friction layer and the bottom electrode. Carrier extraction efficiency has been promoted effectively, while carrier recombination has been restrained owing to the built-in electric field excited by p-Si/ZnO heterojunction. The coupling mechanism of the built-in electric field and the interfacial electric field has been revealed explicitly with a comprehensive theoretical model, which is based on the capacitance feature of the PN junction. The designed multilayer TVNG (MTVNG) has shown 20 times higher output compared to normal Si-based TVNGs. Apart from presenting fundamental insights into the tribovoltaic effect, we have developed a dual-mode analysis method for vibration monitoring. This work expands the path to improve TVNG output through multi-electric field coupling and provides new inspiration for miniaturized vibration sensors in real-time deployments.