Enhancement Effect Research Articles

Application of drag-reducing polymers in forest firefighting: Effects on wood properties and mechanism study

Based on the successful utilization of polymer additives in drag reduction for long-distance transportation and the intricacies of their application in firefighting contexts, this study investigated the impact of additives on wood properties in forest fire suppression through a combination of experiments and molecular dynamics simulations, focusing on wettability, fluidity, and combustibility. Optimal concentrations of polymer solutions were determined through contact angle measurements and surface flow experiments. The effects of polymers on wood water retention, thermal stability, and microstructure were analyzed using thermogravimetric analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and wood impregnation experiments. Wetting and flow models of polymers on cellulose surfaces were simulated to elucidate the wetting mechanism and dynamic behavior of polymers during flow. The results revealed that polyacrylamide (PAM) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) promoted wood surface wetting, improved flowability, enhanced water retention, and delayed decomposition at optimal concentrations. PAM exhibited superior effects in flow stability, thermal stability, and liquid absorption enhancement, attributed to strong hydrogen bonding between PAM and surfaces, primarily through amide groups. During flow, PAM molecules gradually aggregated and moved as aggregates along the X-axis. In contrast, the PEO system relied on electrostatic forces between water and surfaces, with dynamic processes involving repeated stretching and shrinking of PEO molecular chains to facilitate water flow and enhance wetting. This research contributes to delineating the application conditions and benefits of polymer on wood surfaces, enhancing the efficacy and potential of drag-reducing agents in firefighting applications.

Enhancement effect of semicoke waste heat on energy conservation and hydrogen production from biomass gasification

Key approaches to alleviating global warming and curbing fossil fuel depletion involve various industrial energy-conservation technologies and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission reduction methods. The production of hydrogen (H2)-rich gas from inexpensive and readily available biomass, as an alternative energy source, is becoming increasingly promising. However, this application faces challenges such as high energy consumption and low gas quality. In this study, the waste heat released by semicoke production from lignite gasification and CO2 from exhaust gas were utilized to gasify biomass. This approach aims to save energy in biomass gasification and use CO2 in exhaust gas to improve the H2 content in biogas. A simulation was conducted to recover semicoke waste heat by combining a suspension tube with CO2 flow to generate steam and high-temperature CO2, which were then simultaneously sent into a gasifier to produce H2 through biomass gasification. The results revealed that the rate of semicoke waste heat recovery exceeded 90 %. The yield of steam and the rate of waste heat recovery improved with increasing mass flow rate of semicoke and then slightly decreased with increasing steam pressure and CO2 mass flow rate. The yield of H2 increased with the semicoke mass flow rate and steam pressure. The rate of energy conservation ranged from 15 % to 239 %, peaking at a CO2 mass flow rate of 0.09 kg/s. Compared with the case without waste heat recovery, the economic benefits increased from 12 to 28 times.

Insights into the Mechanisms of Single-Photon and Two-Photon Excited Surface Enhanced Fluorescence by Submicrometer Silver Particles.

Surface enhanced fluorescence (SEF) based on noble metal nanoparticles is an effective means to achieve high sensitivity in fluorescence detection. Currently, the physical mechanism behind enhanced fluorescence is not fully understood. This paper measures the fluorescence signals of Dihydroporphyrin f methyl ether (CPD4) under both single-photon and two-photon excitation based on submicrometer silver particles with rough morphologies, achieving enhancement factors of 34 and 45 times, respectively. On this basis, by combining the radiative field characteristics produced by the silver particles, a stimulated radiation model of molecules is established to elucidate the changes in the molecular photophysical process when influenced by silver particles. Moreover, the fluorescence lifetime of the molecules was measured, showing that the presence of silver particles induces an increase in the molecular radiative decay rate, causing the fluorescence lifetime to decay from 3.8 ns to 3 ns. The results indicate that the fluorescence enhancement primarily originates from the submicrometer silver particles' enhancement effect on the excitation light. Additionally, the fluorescence signal emitted by the molecules couples with the silver particles, causing the local surface plasmon resonances generated by the silver particles to also emit light signals of the same frequency. Under the combined effect, the fluorescence of the molecules is significantly enhanced. The findings provide a theoretical foundation for understanding the fluorescence enhancement mechanism of silver particles, adjusting the enhancement effect, and developing enhanced fluorescence detection devices based on submicrometer silver particles, holding significant practical importance.

Exploring the potent enhancement effects of plyometric training on vertical jumping and sprinting ability in sports individuals.

This meta-analysis examines the impact of different combinations of plyometric training (complexity, training volume, and rest intervals) on immediate vertical jump and sprint performance in athletes. A systematic search was conducted in four databases, and Cochrane guidelines were used to evaluate the quality of included studies. Review Manager 5.4 software was employed to analyze outcome measures. Nineteen randomized controlled trials involving 293 participants were included. Single plyometric training-induced post-activation potentiation (PAP) had a slight positive effect on vertical jump performance [SMD = -0.24, 95% CI (-0.38, -0.1), P = 0.0009]. Optimal results were observed with rest intervals of 0.3-4min (SMD = 0.30, P = 0.0008). Sprint performance showed slight improvement [SMD = 0.27, 95% CI (0.03, 0.52), P = 0.03]. Complex plyometric training had a moderate effect on vertical jump performance [SMD = 0.58, 95% CI (-0.86, -0.23), P = 0.002], with the best outcomes seen with rest intervals exceeding 8min (SMD = 0.77). Sprint performance also improved significantly [SMD = 0.8, 95% CI (0.01, 1.59), P = 0.05]. Single-session plyometric training did not significantly enhance vertical jump performance [SMD = -0.19, 95% CI (-0.41, -0.02), P = 0.07], but had a notable effect on sprint performance [SMD = 0.8, 95% CI (0.01, 1.59), P = 0.05], particularly with rest intervals exceeding 8min (SMD = 0.77). Multiple-session plyometric training improved vertical jump (SMD = 0.43, 95% CI [0.01, 1.59), P = 0.00001 < 0.05], with optimal effects observed at rest intervals of 5-7min (SMD = 0.64). Sprint performance also improved [SMD = 0.46, 95% CI (0.01, 0.81), P = 0.01 < 0.05]. Plyometric training as an activation method has significant enhancing effects, depending on training complexity, volume, and rest intervals.

A polarization conversion metasurface for broadband and high-efficiency bidirectional filtering

Here, we demonstrate a polarization conversion metasurface which is composed of a single layer square split-ring resonator and bi-layered slotted perfect electrical conductor (PEC) to realize broadband and high-efficiency bidirectional filtering. The numerical results indicate that y-polarized waves can be converted to x-polarized transmission waves in the frequency range of 6.6 GHz to 13.9 GHz, while prevent this polarized waves with frequency beyond this band, and purity x-polarized waves can be obtained as electromagnetic (EM) waves are incident along negative z-axis, meanwhile, x-polarized waves can be converted to y-polarized transmission waves and only y-polarized waves available when EM waves are incident along positive z-axis. This designed polarization conversion metasurface has the function of bidirectional filtering in a wideband frequency range. Furthermore, the broadband property can be maintained as the incident angle up to 30°. The Fabry–Pérot-like cavity model is established to clarify the interference and enhancement effect of polarization conversion, and the electrical field and surface current distributions are used to elucidate the physical mechanism of polarization conversion and filtering. The experimental results are coincident with the numerical simulations. This metasurface can be employed in controlling the filtering signal of the polarized devices and can be functional as a bandpass filter in communication systems.

Metal contamination of the surface water and its effect on the higher gastric cancer incidence of Lujiang County, China

Metal contamination in surface water is one of the major environmental risk factors contributing to the incidence and mortality of gastric cancer (GC) in rural China. In this study, the generalized additive model (GAM) was used to explore the single and interactive effects of metal elements in surface water on GC incidence on the watershed scale in Lujiang County, east of China. Spatially, the areas with a high incidence of GC were concentrated in the northwest watershed where the drainage system was relatively developed. Apart from Sr, the average concentrations of Al, As, Be, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, and Zn in the northern watershed were higher than those in the southern watershed. Among them, the average concentrations of Be (0.036 mg/L), Fe (1.539 mg/L), Mn (0.355 mg/L), and Ni (0.040 mg/L) well exceeded China’s Grade III water quality standards. On the sub-watershed scale Be (F(5.130)), Pb (F(4.963)), As (F(3.508)), Cu (F(3.023)), Zn (F(2.922)), Cr (F(2.725)), Sn (F(2.588)), and Co (F(2.140)) in surface water were the main elements contributing to the high incidence of GC in Lujiang County, and the interaction effect mostly showed nonlinear enhancement. Especially, the nonlinear enhancement effect of Be with Cu (F(7.051)), Co (F(5.798)), Sn (F(5.328)), and Pb (F(5.193)) was more significant and had a greater effect on the incidence of GC. This study provides compelling direct evidence on the effects of metal contamination in surface water on the higher GC incidence in Lujiang County, China. It is recommended that there be routine monitoring of metal concentrations in surface water resources.

Analysis of the epidemiological characteristics and influencing factors of tuberculosis among students in a large province of China, 2008–2018

This study examines tuberculosis (TB) incidence among students in Jilin Province, China, focusing on spatial, temporal, and demographic dynamics in areas of social inequality. Variation in incidence rate of TB was analyzed using the joinpoint regression method. Spatial analyses techniques included the global and local Moran indices and Getis-Ord Gi* analysis. Demographic changes in new cases were analyzed descriptively, and the Geodetector method measured the influence of risk factors on student TB incidence. The analysis revealed a declining trend in TB cases, particularly among male students. TB incidence showed geographical heterogeneity, with lower rates in underdeveloped rural areas compared to urban regions. Significant spatial correlations were observed, with high-high clusters forming in central Jilin Province. Hotspots of student TB transmission were primarily concentrated in the southwestern and central regions from 2008 to 2018. Socio-economic factors exhibited nonlinear enhancement effects on incidence rates, with a dominant bifactor effect. High-risk zones were predominantly located in urban centers, with university and high school students showing higher incidences than other educational stages. The study revealed economic determinants as being especially important in affecting TB incidence among students, with these factors having nonlinear interacting effects on student TB incidence.

Flow Mechanism Study on the Effect of Controllable Speed Casing With Different Axial Starting Points on Transonic Compressor Rotor Stability

Abstract The controllable speed casing represents an exploring approach to casing technology, designed to enhance the adaptability of casing in compressors under variable working conditions. This paper developed a numerical study into the effects of the axial starting point of the rotatable ring in the controllable speed casing on stability enhancement and performance. Additionally, the study sought to unveil the action mechanism of the rotating casing on various flow elements within the tip passage. The findings indicated that the optimal axial starting point for achieving the most pronounced stability enhancement effect in each rotating speed of the rotatable ring was located at the tip leading edge. In terms of the flow mechanism, the rotation of the rotatable ring was found to enhance the throughflow of the mainstream and the tip vortex, while exacerbating the backflow of the tip leakage flow, which occurred at middle and rear of the tip clearance and had not evolved into tip vortex.

The dual gain strategy of introducing nickel doping and anchoring amorphous iron oxyhydroxide nanosheets on ZIF-67 achieves an efficient oxygen evolution reaction

A ZIF-67@Ni@FeOOH composite material was synthesized using nickel-doped ZIF-67 as a precursor and was electrochemically characterized as an efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalyst. The results indicated that Ni doping preserved the polyhedral structure of ZIF-67 while enhancing its OER activity. The introduction of amorphous FeOOH nanosheets allowed ZIF-67@Ni@FeOOH to not only retain its original polyhedral structure but also develop a hollow interior and self-remodeling surface, resulting in numerous defects. These features contribute to improved charge transfer efficiency and enhanced conductivity of the material. The dual enhancement effect is achieved by combining the doping strategy with structural defect engineering. The synergistic effects of Co, Ni, and Fe species further boost OER performance. The ZIF-67@Ni@FeOOH catalyst exhibited remarkable OER efficacy, with the lowest overpotential at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 being 329 mV and a low Tafel slope of 42.95 mV dec−1. In situ Raman spectroscopy revealed that high-valence hydroxyl oxides, specifically NiOOH and CoOOH, present on the composite surface were the active species for OER. This study offers a promising approach for developing economically viable electrocatalysts with superior efficiency for OER.

Bio-oil production from hydrothermal liquefaction of algal biomass: Effects of feedstock properties and reaction parameters

In this study, two different algal biomass types, including fresh algal biomass (HS) and dewatered algal biomass (TH and CH), were selected to explore the effects of their properties and hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) reaction parameters on bio-oil yields and quality. The obtained results showed higher bio-oil yields through the HTL process of the HS algal biomass than those obtained from the TH and CH algal biomass. The observed bio-oil yields increasing-decreasing trends with increasing reaction temperatures and times. The optimal reaction temperature and time were 325 °C and 30 min, respectively. These conditions resulted in HS, TH, and CH algal biomass bio-oil yields of 31.6, 24.2, and 14.4 wt%, respectively. The HS algal biomass-derived bio-oil exhibited higher H/C ratios and HHV values, as well as lower N/C ratios, than those of the dewatered algal biomass-derived bio-oils. The bio-oil composition results demonstrated the enhancement effects of flocculant additions to the dewatered algal biomass on the bio-oil fractions. The TH and CH algal biomass-derived bio-oils exhibited substantially higher hydrocarbon contents than those in bio-oils of the HS algal biomass. In addition, the nitrogenous compound and hydrocarbon contents exhibited decreasing and increasing trends, respectively, with increasing reaction temperatures from 275 to 325 °C, improving the bio-oil quality.

Catalytic performance of Cs-V-based non-noble soot oxidation catalyst used for DPF and its enhancement by cerium addition

Non-noble metal catalysts have great potential for controlling soot emissions due to their effective oxidation properties and low cost. This study investigated the characteristics of Cs-V-based non-noble metal soot catalyst and Ce doping enhancement effect through comprehensive characterization of physicochemical properties, catalytic activity evaluation, and density functional theory (DFT) theoretical calculations. The results demonstrate that Ce doping improves the degree of surface particle aggregation and the spatial distribution morphology of Cs-V-based catalyst, with a 36.7 % increase in the specific surface area. Additionally, Ce doping enhances the probability of oxygen adsorption and dissociation activation on the Cs-V-based catalyst, accelerating the soot-oxidation process, improving the soot-oxidation activity, with a decrease in the characteristic temperature T10 (temperature at 10 % conversion rate of soot) from 349.7 ℃ to 281.1 ℃, and decreases the activation energy for soot-oxidation to 5.8 kJ/mol. DFT calculations reveal that Ce doping strengthens the pulling effect of interatomic chemical bonds, facilitating the removal of oxygen atoms and dissociated reactive oxygen (Oasd), resulting in an increase in the adsorption energy of C4 molecules and a shorter bond length between C4 molecules and the catalytic surface, facilitating the desorption of post-oxidation soot products.

Co-culturing Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis with Lactobacillus helveticus accelerates its growth and fermentation in milk through metabolic interactions

[Objective] This study aimed to investigate the interaction between Lactobacillus helveticus H9 (H9) and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis Probio-M8 (M8) through metabolomics analysis, focusing on understanding how co-culturing these strains can enhance bacterial growth and metabolism, thereby shortening the fermentation cycle and improving efficiency. [Methods] The H9 and M8 strains were cultured individually and in combination (1:1 ratio) in milk. The fermented milk metabolomes were analyzed using solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. [Results] In the dual-strain fermentation, the M8 strain exhibited a 2.33-fold increase in viable bacterial count compared with single-strain fermentation. Additionally, the dual-strain fermentation resulted in greater metabolite abundance and diversity. Notably, the dual-strain fermented milk showed significantly elevated levels of metabolites, including 5-methyl-2-hexanone, (E)-3-octen-2-one, acetic acid, alanine, and 3-hydroxy-butanal. [Conclusion] Our results demonstrated that co-culturing the M8 and H9 strains accelerated growth and fermentation efficiency. This enhancement effect is likely attributed to the strong proteolytic ability of the H9 strain, which hydrolyzes casein to produce small molecular peptides, alanine, tyrosine, and other growth-promoting factors. The insights gained from this study have significant implications for probiotics and the dairy industry, potentially leading to shorter fermentation cycles, enhanced cost-effectiveness, and improved nutritional and functional properties of future fermented milk products. Additionally, these findings may contribute to advancements in probiotic research and applications.

Oscillation mechanism and predictive model of explosion load for natural gas in confined tube

Gas explosion in confined space often leads to significant pressure oscillation. It is widely recognized that structural damage can be severe when the oscillation frequency of the load resonates with the natural vibration frequency of the structure. To reveal the oscillation mechanism of gas explosion load, the experiment of gas explosion was conducted in a large-scale confined tube with the length of 30 m, and the explosion process was numerically analyzed using FLACS. The results show that the essential cause of oscillation effect is the reflection of the pressure wave. In addition, due to the difference in the propagation path of the pressure wave, the load oscillation frequency at the middle position of the tunnel is twice that at the end position. The average sound velocity can be used to calculate the oscillation frequency of overpressure accurately, and the error is less than 15%. The instability of the flame surface and the increase of flame turbulence caused by the interaction between the pressure wave and the flame surface are the main contributors to the increase in overpressure and amplitude. The overpressure peaks calculated by the existing flame instability model and turbulence disturbance model are 31.7% and 34.7% lower than the numerical results, respectively. The turbulence factor model established in this work can describe the turbulence enhancement effect caused by flame instability and oscillatory load, and the difference between the theoretical and numerical results is only 4.6%. In the theoretical derivation of the overpressure model, an improved model of dynamic turbulence factor is established, which can describe the enhancement effect of turbulence factor caused by flame instability and self-turbulence. Based on the one-dimensional propagation theory of pressure wave, the oscillatory effect of the load is derived to calculate the frequency and amplitude of pressure oscillation. The average error of amplitude and frequency is less than 20%.

Carbon Dioxide Adsorption by Variation in Operating Parameters of Sound Assisted Fluidization Using Coal Based Fine Activated Carbon

This research delves into the promising domain of CO2 capture through fine solid activated carbon adsorbent, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional adsorption methods. The central challenge addressed here is the utility of cheaper CO2 adsorbent, fine powder materials whose properties can be precisely tailored via molecular-level fictionalization. Equally vital is selecting an optimal fluidizing column configuration that maximizes CO2 interaction with adsorption particles and enhances adsorption efficiency. The proposed solution is a fluidized bed column uniquely equipped with integrated acoustic vibrations to counteract interparticle forces common in fine powders. For adsorption evaluations, sound-assisted fluidized-bed experimentation on a laboratory size was set up. Adsorbent material activated carbon made up of coal underwent rigorous testing between a range of 20 Hz-200 Hz and 20 dB-135 dB. Results reveal the beneficial effects of acoustic enhancement of fluidization quality and adsorption efficiency, increased adsorption capacity, enhanced bed utilization, and accelerated adsorption rates. Extensive research has been conducted on the detailed effects of major operational variables on adsorption performance, notably frequency, sound intensity, and minimum fluidization velocity. The findings highlight the pivotal role of particle size with mean size 75 microns range as a determinant of adsorption capacity at 100 Hz and 125 dB. At the end of experimentation, the adsorbent considered for the experiment is compared to the study adsorption capacity at operating conditions. The research concludes with a discussion on the effects of influencing parameters for adsorption on employing sound vibrations using fluidization technique adsorption for CO2 capture.

Effect of Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement in College Athletes for Reducing Sports-Caused Anxiety and Improving Self-Awareness: A Critically Appraised Topic

Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement (MSPE) training is a relatively new concept, which focuses on helping athletes manage a variety of stressors experienced throughout a season, including performing well academically, staying fit, having a productive season in their sport, and maintaining a healthy social life. A need for a critical appraisal is needed to assess the effectiveness of the intervention. Two cohort studies and one randomized control trial were included in the study and assessed using STROBE and PEDro Scale. Key results show, all 3 studies identified participants experiencing benefits after MSPE with aspects of awareness, acceptance, and emotion regulation. Furthermore, student-athletes who attended either all the sessions or more sessions after the 6-week course showed greater satisfaction with mental and physical health. Overall, there is level “B” evidence to support effectiveness of MSPE for college athletes in reducing sport anxiety and improving their overall well-being.

Enhancement effect of kale fiber on physicochemical, rheological and digestive properties of goat yogurt

This study incorporated kale fiber into goat milk as a functional component to investigate its impact on the quality and functional characteristics of set goat yogurt. Kale fiber content ranging from 0% to 1.5% (w/v) was added to 15% (w/v) defatted goat milk powder dissolved in water to form set yogurt. The addition of fiber increased the particle size and absolute potential of the goat yogurt, with a positive correlation observed between yogurt hardness, cohesiveness, and fiber content. Optimal water retention and thermal stability were achieved at a 0.5% fiber concentration. Microscopic analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of kale fiber into the yogurt gel network, resulting in significant differences in gel structure based on varying fiber content. Oscillatory temperature scan results indicated enhanced resistance to temperature changes due to the inclusion of kale fiber. Additionally, thixotropy results showed a 10% to 30% increase in gel structure recovery rate compared to the control group. In vitro digestion studies confirmed that kale fiber significantly improved protein bioavailability and release rate during digestion. Thus, incorporating kale fiber into goat milk as a natural plant-based functional component can enhance its nutritional value and rheological properties.

Development of Fe3O4/DEX/PDA@Au(Raman reporters)@Au-MPBA nanocomposites based multi-hotspot SERS probe for ultrasensitive, reliable, and quantitative detection of glucose in sweat

Glucose is a key biomarker of diabetes, and effective glucose monitoring methods are crucial to the prevention and management of diabetes. Therefore, in this paper, Fe3O4/DEX/PDA@Au (Raman reporters) @Au nanocomposites were synthetized that with DTNB (5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic)), MMTA (2-mercapto-4-methyl-5-thiazole acetic acid), MBA (4-mercaptobenzoic acid) and 4-Mpy(4-Mercaptopyridine) were used separately as Raman reporters. Fe3O4 and PDA (Polymerized dopamine) could supply more high surface area of active sites and high SERS (Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering) substrate, which has high stability and reproducibility. Dextran coating is an effective way to prepare biocompatible materials TEM, XRD, TG and VSM were used to analyze the size, morphology and magnetic properties of the nanocomposites. Fe3O4/DEX/PDA@Au(Raman reporters)@Au that integrates a multi-hotspot structure and magnetic separation techniques were studied the enhancement effect of Raman spectra, and glucose solutions with different concentrations were tested. Furthermore, the optimal Fe3O4/DEX/PDA@Au(Raman reporters)@Au nanocomposites were supplied as SERS substrates for detection of glucose accurately and quickly in sweat. SERS signal intensity is linearly correlated with glucose concentration within the measurement range of 5 × 10-3 to 10 mM, and the minimum detectable concentration is 5 µM. The Fe3O4/DEX/PDA@Au(Raman reporters)@Au nanocomposites exhibit high reliability, specificity and repeatability of the strategy were then verified by practical detection of sweat.

Numerical simulation of dynamics behavior of pre-ionized pulsed-DC helium plasma jets at atmospheric pressure

A two-dimensional axisymmetric fluid model was established to investigate the dynamic behavior of pre-ionized pulsed-direct-current helium plasma jets at atmospheric pressure. Our simulation results show that, at a relatively low pre-ionization level, the electron number density is reduced and the streamer propagation is decelerated before the plasma jet is ejected from the tube, which is attributed to the inhibitory effect of a recombination process between the positive ions in the streamer and the seed electrons near the anode. As the pre-ionization reaches a relatively high level, the electron number density is larger than that without pre-ionization before the plasma jet is ejected from the tube, which originates from the promotion effect of decreased breakdown voltage. These two competing mechanisms jointly dominate the dynamic behavior of gas discharge in the presence of pre-ionization. After the plasma jet is ejected from the tube, the enhanced discharge power is responsible for the strengthened electric field in the streamer head, augmented total ionization rate, accelerated streamer propagation, and increased number density of electrons and active species, whatever the pre-ionization density is. With the increase in pre-ionization density, the plasma jet length, streamer propagation speed, discharge power, and discharge energy exhibit the initial increase and subsequent decrease variation trend. The optimal enhancement effect is obtained at the pre-ionization density of 6 × 1012 m−3, with the plasma jet lengthened by 28.4% and the energy deposition efficiency enhanced by 28.1%.

Ellagic acid improves the symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer's disease: Behavioral and physiological correlates

Oryza sativa is a globally recognized staple food, rich in essential phyto-phenolic compounds such as γ-Oryzanol (OZ), Ferulic acid (FA), and Ellagic acid (EA). These phytochemicals are known for their potential to beneficially modulate molecular biochemistry. The present investigation aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective and cognitive enhancement effects of Oryza sativa phyto-phenolics in a model of early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD) induced by Aβ (1-42) in animals. In-silico studies suggested that FA, OZ, and EA have target specificity for Aβ, with EA being further selected based on its potent in-vitro Aβ anti-aggregatory effects for exploring neurodegenerative conditions. The in-vivo experiments demonstrated that EA exerts therapeutic effects in Aβ-induced EOAD, modulating both biochemical and behavioral outcomes. EA treatment at two dose levels, EA70 and EA140 (70 μM and 140 μM, respectively, administered i.c.v.), significantly counteracted Aβ aggregation and modulated the Ca2⁺/Calpain/GSK-3β/CDK5 signaling pathways, exhibiting anti-tauopathy effects. Additionally, EA was shown to exert anti-inflammatory effects by preventing astroglial activation, modulating FAIM-L expression, and protecting against TNF-α-induced apoptotic signals. Moreover, the neuromodulatory effects of EA were attributed to the regulation of CREB levels, Dnm-1 expression, and synaptophysin levels, thereby enhancing LTP and synaptic plasticity. EA also induced beneficial cytological and behavioral changes, improving both long-term and short-term spatial memory as well as associative learning behavior in the animal model, which underscores its cognitive enhancement properties.

Navigating total-factor carbon emission efficiency in the digital era: A case study from industry structure, environmental regulations, and trade spillover

Digital technology innovation has become essential to China's sustainable, low-carbon social development strategy. However, its spatial impact on carbon reduction and efficiency is unclear. This study innovatively utilizes patent search to define digital technology innovation and spatial econometric modeling to assess its association with total-factor carbon emission efficiency (TCEE) in 286 Chinese cities. There are some exciting research findings: (1) Digital technology innovation effectively accelerates local TCEE and contributes to TCEE in surrounding cities through spatial spillover effects. (2) The heterogeneous results show that digital technology innovation increases the local TCEE in the western region, inhibits the local TCEE in the eastern and northeastern areas, and shows apparent positive spillover effects in both the eastern and western areas; the positive effects of digital technology innovation on TCEE in non-resource cities and small cities are all-encompassing. (3) Both industrial structure upgrading and optimization can enhance the spatial spillover effect of digital technology innovation on TCEE; both formal and informal environmental regulations (ER) can effectively accelerate the TCEE enhancement effect of digital technology innovation on local and surrounding cities. (4) Digital technology innovation affects the TCEE of trading partners through domestic bilateral trade. This manuscript provides an actionable reference for measuring digital technology innovation and China's path to achieving an efficient low-carbon pathway.