A low-molecular-weight polylactide-poly(butylene succinate)(PLA-PBS)copolymer was synthesized and incorporated into polylactide(PLA)as a novel toughening agent by solvent casting.The copolymer had the same chemical st...A low-molecular-weight polylactide-poly(butylene succinate)(PLA-PBS)copolymer was synthesized and incorporated into polylactide(PLA)as a novel toughening agent by solvent casting.The copolymer had the same chemical structure and function as PLA and it was used as a plasticizer to PLA.The copolymer was blended with PLA at a weight ratio from 2 to 10 wt%.Phase separation between PLA and PLA-PBS was not observed from their scanning electron microscopy(SEM)images and the crystal structure of PLA almost remained unchanged based on the X-ray diffraction(XRD)measurement.The melt flow index(MFI)of the blends was higher as the amount of PLA-PBS increased,indicating that the block copolymer did improve the mobility of the PLA chains.Moreover,tensile tests revealed that PLA with greater PLA-PBS copolymer exhibited higher elongation at break and it reached the maximum at 8 wt%of PLA-PBS in PLA,which was around 6 times higher than that of pure PLA.Furthermore,the glass transition temperature,measured by differential scanning calorimetry(DSC),markedly decreased with an increasing amount of the copolymer as it decreased from 61.2℃ for pure PLA to 41.3℃when it was blended with 10 wt%PLA-PBS copolymer.Therefore,the PLA-PBS copolymer was shown to be a promising plasticizer for fully biobased and toughened PLA.展开更多
In this study,as the plasticizer,Camellia oleifera seed-oil-based cyclohexyl ester(COSOCE)was prepared by the reaction of cyclohexene oxide and refined C.oleifera seed oil(RCOSO)obtained by acidification hydrolysis af...In this study,as the plasticizer,Camellia oleifera seed-oil-based cyclohexyl ester(COSOCE)was prepared by the reaction of cyclohexene oxide and refined C.oleifera seed oil(RCOSO)obtained by acidification hydrolysis after saponification.In addition,the structure of the target product was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared(FTIR)spectroscopy,nuclear magnetic resonance(NMR)spectroscopy,and Raman spectroscopy.COSOCE was used as plasticizer-modified polyvinyl chloride(PVC)membranes.The structure of the COSOCE-modified PVC membranes were characterized by Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy(SEM).The properties of the COSOCE-modified PVC membrane were characterized by contact angle measurements,universal testing machine,thermogravimetric analysis(TGA),and differential scanning calorimetry(DSC).The results revealed that(1)The COSOCE-modified PVC membranes exhibit a good microscopic morphology.Combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy(EDS)and contact angle measurement results,the COSOCE-modified PVC membranes are confirmed to be a hydrophilic material.(2)The modified PVC membrane with 60%COSOCE exhibited the best mechanical properties.The tensile strength reached 23.56±2.94 MPa.(3)COSOCE-modified PVC material exhibited better thermal stability,with a loss rate of less than 75%at the end of the first decomposition stage.Compared with that of the dioctyl-phthalate(DOP)-modified PVC membrane,the initial decomposition temperature of PVC was increased by 1.17°C–8.17°C,and the residual rate was increased by 0.67%–5.75%.The carbon–carbon double bond in the COSOCE molecular structure can remove the free radicals generated during the degradation of PVC material and slow down the decomposition rate of PVC.In addition,the double bond can be cross-linked partially with the PVC molecular chain containing the conjugated polyene structure,thereby increasing the movement resistance of the PVC molecular chain segment.Hence,COSOCE can replace DOP as a PVC plasticizer.展开更多
Plasticizers are essential additives in the processing of polyvinyl chloride(PVC),with phthalate plasticizers being widely used.However,these conventional plasticizers have been shown to be harmful to human health and...Plasticizers are essential additives in the processing of polyvinyl chloride(PVC),with phthalate plasticizers being widely used.However,these conventional plasticizers have been shown to be harmful to human health and environmentally unfriendly,necessitating the exploration of eco-friendly bio-based alternatives.In this study,Camellia oleifera seed oil,a specialty resource in China,was utilized as a raw material and reacted with 4,4′-Methylenebis(N,N-diglycidylaniline)(AG-80)to synthesize Phenyl Camellia seed Oil Ester(PCSOE).PCSOE was employed as a plasticizer to prepare modified PVC films with varying concentrations,with the conventional plasticizer dioctyl phthalate(DOP)serving as a control.Experimental results demonstrate that PSCOE-plasticized PVC films exhibit enhanced hydrophilicity,tensile strength,and thermal stability compared to DOP-modified PVC films.The contact angle of PSCOE-plasticized PVC films ranges from 66.26°to 78.48°,which is generally lower than the contact angle of DOP-modified PVC films at 78.40°,indicating improved hydrophilicity due to the modification with PCSOE.The tensile strength of PSCOE-plasticized PVC films ranges from 17.73 to 20.17 MPa,all surpassing the value of 16.41 MPa for DOP-modified PVC films.Moreover,the temperatures corresponding to 5%,10%,and 50%weight loss for PVC samples modified with PCSOE are higher than those for DOP.Hence,PCSOE presents a viable alternative to DOP as a plasticizer for PVC materials.展开更多
Lactate serves as a key energy metabolite in the central nervous system,facilitating essential brain functions,including energy supply,signaling,and epigenetic modulation.Moreover,it links epigenetic modifications wit...Lactate serves as a key energy metabolite in the central nervous system,facilitating essential brain functions,including energy supply,signaling,and epigenetic modulation.Moreover,it links epigenetic modifications with metabolic reprogramming.Nonetheless,the specific mechanisms and roles of this connection in astrocytes remain unclear.Therefore,this review aims to explore the role and specific mechanisms of lactate in the metabolic reprogramming of astrocytes in the central nervous system.The close relationship between epigenetic modifications and metabolic reprogramming was discussed.Therapeutic strategies for targeting metabolic reprogramming in astrocytes in the central nervous system were also outlined to guide future research in central nervous system diseases.In the nervous system,lactate plays an essential role.However,its mechanism of action as a bridge between metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic modifications in the nervous system requires future investigation.The involvement of lactate in epigenetic modifications is currently a hot research topic,especially in lactylation modification,a key determinant in this process.Lactate also indirectly regulates various epigenetic modifications,such as N6-methyladenosine,acetylation,ubiquitination,and phosphorylation modifications,which are closely linked to several neurological disorders.In addition,exploring the clinical applications and potential therapeutic strategies of lactic acid provides new insights for future neurological disease treatments.展开更多
Diamonds were formed in the mantle lithosphere,mostly at depths of 150~200km in the centres of Precambrian cratons,the buoyant ancient cores of continents.From there they were normally transported into the upper crust...Diamonds were formed in the mantle lithosphere,mostly at depths of 150~200km in the centres of Precambrian cratons,the buoyant ancient cores of continents.From there they were normally transported into the upper crust in kimberlite pipes whose diamonds are largely colourless and light yellow related to trace element N(Ia type),although brown,green,and more rarely blue-coloured diamonds are related to lattice defect and trace amounts of H,more rarely B and Ni.Pink diamonds are extremely rare in the approximately 90 diamondiferous pipes mined globally.Although small quantities have been discovered elsewhere,about 90%have been mined from the ca.1.3Ga Argyle diamond pipe in Western Australia,with the Arkhangelskaya diamond pipe in Russia the only other significant source.The pink colour at both Argyle and Arkhangelskaya is unrelated to trace elements and instead results from absorption of light from nanoscale(550nm)defects related to shear stress and plastic deformation.Macroscopically,defects are shown by glide planes,lamellae,and grain lines imposed on the originally colourless diamonds derived from their mantle source.The key question is why these defects were uniquely acquired in diamonds in the Argyle and Arkhangelskaya pipes.Unlike most diamondiferous pipes,Argyle is a rare diamondiferous volatile-rich lamproite pipe that was emplaced into the multiply deformed and rifted NNE-trending Halls Creek Orogen on the margin of the Kimberley Craton.Similarly,Arkhangelskaya in the Devonian Lomonosov kimberlite cluster is a volatile-rich low-Ti type kimberlite,a close relative to lamproite,that was emplaced into the multiply deformed Lapland-Kola Orogen on the rifted margin of the Kola Craton.These craton margins are underlain by subduction-induced volatile-enriched metasomatized mantle lithosphere in contrast to the more primeval mantle under craton centres.It is thus likely that shear stresses were exacerbated at Argyle and Arkangelskaya by rapid vertical emplacement of the anomalous volatile-enriched magmas at supercritical pressures and temperatures,that induced catastrophic phase separation of these volatiles and'mini seismic events'during rapid pressure drops during ascent from 200km depth to the surface.Such a mechanism is consistent with the presence of strongly resorbed and plastically deformed small brown industrial diamonds in the Argyle pipe.From a China perspective,it is potentially important that at 1.3Ga the alkaline Argyle pipe in northern Australia is placed adjacent to the North China Craton(NCC),with numerous world-class mineral deposits including the giant ca.1.4~1.2Ga alkaline Bayan Obo REE system on its margin.However,it is the southeastern margin of the Yangtze Craton and the Jiangnan Orogen with their lamproite pipes derived from metasomatized mantle lithosphere that present the most prospective regions for pink diamond occurrences.展开更多
The strength and damping properties of Co-Ni-Cr-Mo-based alloys with 0.5wt%Nb addition after various plastic deformation and heat treatment processes were investigated.Through Vickers hardness tests,free resonance You...The strength and damping properties of Co-Ni-Cr-Mo-based alloys with 0.5wt%Nb addition after various plastic deformation and heat treatment processes were investigated.Through Vickers hardness tests,free resonance Young's modulus measurements,and microstructure analysis,the effects of dislocation density,vacancy formation,and recrystallization on the alloy performance were clarified.Results indicate that increasing the rolling reduction enhances damping property due to higher dislocation density,whereas aging below the recrystallization temperature reduces damping property via dislocation pinning by the Suzuki effect.Recrystallization heat treatment restores the original structure and damping level.This alloy possesses tensile strength of approximately 1500 MPa and logarithmic decrement valueδ^(-1) in the range of 2×10^(-4)–3×10^(-4),demonstrating superior mechanical properties compared with the Ti-based alloys,which makes it an excellent candidate material for ultrasonic tools and medical applications.展开更多
The dentate gyrus of the hippocampus is a plastic structure that displays modifications at different levels in response to positive stimuli as well as to negative conditions such as brain damage.The latter involves gl...The dentate gyrus of the hippocampus is a plastic structure that displays modifications at different levels in response to positive stimuli as well as to negative conditions such as brain damage.The latter involves global alterations,making understanding plastic responses triggered by local damage difficult.One key feature of the dentate gyrus is that it contains a well-defined neurogenic niche,the subgranular zone,and beyond neurogenesis,newly born granule cells may maintain a“young”phenotype throughout life,adding to the plastic nature of the structure.Here,we present a novel experimental model of local brain damage in organotypic entorhino-hippocampal cultures that results in the activation of adjacent newly born granule cells.A small piece of filter paper was placed on the surface of the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus,which evoked a foreign body reaction of astrocytes,along with the activation of local young neurons expressing doublecortin.Forty-eight hours after foreign body placement,the number of doublecortin-immunoreactive cells increased in the subgranular zone in the direct vicinity of the foreign body,whereas overall increased doublecortin immunoreactivity was observed in the granule cell layer and molecular layer of the dentate gyrus.Foreign body placement in the pyramidal layer of the CA1 region evoked a comparable local astroglial reaction but did not lead to an increase in doublecortin-immunoreactive in either the CA1 region or the adjacent dentate gyrus.Seven days after foreign body placement in the dentate gyrus,the increase in doublecortin-immunoreactivity was no longer observed,indicating the transient activation of young cells.However,7 days after foreign body placement,the number of doublecortin-immunoreactive granule cells coimmunoreactive for calbindin was lower than that under the control conditions.As calbindin is a marker for mature granule cells,this result suggests that activated young cells remain at a more immature stage following foreign body placement.Live imaging of retrovirally green fluorescent protein-labeled newly born granule cells revealed the orientation and growth of their dendrites toward the foreign body placement.This novel experimental model of foreign body placement in organotypic entorhino-hippocampal cultures could serve as a valuable tool for studying both glial reactivity and neuronal plasticity,specifically of newly born neurons under controlled in vitro conditions.展开更多
Neuronal plasticity,the brain's ability to adapt structurally and functionally,is essential for learning,memory,and recovery from injuries.In neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinso...Neuronal plasticity,the brain's ability to adapt structurally and functionally,is essential for learning,memory,and recovery from injuries.In neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease,this plasticity is disrupted,leading to cognitive and motor deficits.This review explores the mechanisms of neuronal plasticity and its effect on Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.Alzheimer's disease features amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles that impair synaptic function,while Parkinson's disease involves the loss of dopaminergic neurons affecting motor control.Enhancing neuronal plasticity offers therapeutic potential for these diseases.A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed,Scopus,and Google Scholar,focusing on studies of neuronal plasticity in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.Data synthesis identified key themes such as synaptic mechanisms,neurogenesis,and therapeutic strategies,linking molecular insights to clinical applications.Results highlight that targeting synaptic plasticity mechanisms,such as long-term potentiation and long-term depression,shows promise.Neurotrophic factors,advanced imaging techniques,and molecular tools(e.g.,clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and optogenetics)are crucial in understanding and enhancing plasticity.Current therapies,including dopamine replacement,deep brain stimulation,and lifestyle interventions,demonstrate the potential to alleviate symptoms and improve outcomes.In conclusion,enhancing neuronal plasticity through targeted therapies holds significant promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases.Future research should integrate multidisciplinary approaches to fully harness the therapeutic potential of neuronal plasticity in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.展开更多
Sleep is a fundamental biological process essential for maintaining brain function,cognitive performance,and overall health.Despite over a century of research,the mechanisms underlying sleep homeostasis-the process by...Sleep is a fundamental biological process essential for maintaining brain function,cognitive performance,and overall health.Despite over a century of research,the mechanisms underlying sleep homeostasis-the process by which the need for sleep accumulates during wakefulness and dissipates during sleep-remain incompletely understood.This article explores the latest advancements in sleep research,focusing on the role of synaptic plasticity in sleep homeostasis,as illuminated by Sawada et al.(2024).展开更多
Nonlinear static procedures are widely adopted in structural engineering practice for seismic performance assessment due to their simplicity and computational efficiency.However,their reliability depends heavily on ho...Nonlinear static procedures are widely adopted in structural engineering practice for seismic performance assessment due to their simplicity and computational efficiency.However,their reliability depends heavily on how the nonlinear behaviour of structural components is represented.The recent earthquakes in Albania(2019)and Türkiye(2023)have underscored the need for accurate assessment techniques,particularly for older reinforced concrete buildings with poor detailing.This study quantifies the discrepancies between default and user-defined component modelling in pushover analysis of pre-modern reinforced concrete structures,analysing two representative low-and mid-rise reinforced concrete frame buildings.The lumped plasticity approach incorporates moment-rotation relationships derived from actual member properties and reinforcement configurations,while the distributed plasticity approach uses software-generated default properties based on modern codes.Results show that the distributed plasticity models systematically overestimate both the strength and the deformation capacity by up to 35%compared to lumped plasticity models,especially in buildings with poor detailing and low concrete strength.These findings demonstrate that default software procedures,widely used in practice but not validated for pre-modern structures,produce dangerously unconservative seismic performance estimates.The study provides quantitative evidence of the critical need for tailored modelling strategies that reflect the actual conditions of the existing building stock.展开更多
Photoreforming poly(lactic acid)(PLA)plastics into pyruvic acid(PA)coupled with hydrogen evolution is of great significance for sustainable development.However,a significant challenge lies inα-OH bond cleaving of lac...Photoreforming poly(lactic acid)(PLA)plastics into pyruvic acid(PA)coupled with hydrogen evolution is of great significance for sustainable development.However,a significant challenge lies inα-OH bond cleaving of lactic acid(LA).Herein,CdS/Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12)composite is fabricated,bridged by Bi−S bonds,through in-situ growth of CdS nanoparticles on Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12)nanoflowers for the successive removal of hydrogen fromα-C in LA.In-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the S-scheme carriers transfer route and interfacial Bi−S bond in CdS/Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12).Consequently,the photo-electrons and holes with extended lifetimes and strong redox potential accumulate in the CdS conduction band and Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12)valence band,respectively,as evidenced by in-situ electron spin resonance and time-resolved photoluminescence.This facilitates the generation of·OH radicals,which further participate in the successive dehydrogenation reaction of LA.Consequently,the photoreforming efficiencies of converting PLA into PA and H_(2)by CdS/Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12)are 1.7 and 3.16 mmol g^(-1)h^(-1),which are respectively 2.8 and 22 times higher than that by pristine Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12).The present work provides a new approach for designing S-scheme to achieve hydrogen production and value-added conversion of plastics.展开更多
Microplastics(MPs)are ubiquitous and pose an environmental risk.This review examined MP pollution in terrestrial ecosystems from a myriad of poorly understood sources.Knowledge regarding the occurrence sources,migrati...Microplastics(MPs)are ubiquitous and pose an environmental risk.This review examined MP pollution in terrestrial ecosystems from a myriad of poorly understood sources.Knowledge regarding the occurrence sources,migration behaviors,ecotoxicology,absorption mechanisms,and effects of MPs has also been fully summarized.Microplastics interact with contaminants,such as antibiotics,pesticides,heavy metals,etc.,and may act as vectors for contaminant transfer in terrestrial ecosystems.The transportation and retention of MPs in soil are governed by interactions among their inherent properties,such as size,shape,surface charge,and density.Interestingly,MP migration into soil is lacking research.The MPs and nanoplastics were also found in edible fruits and vegetables.The MP contamination in soil affects ecosystems,causing soil structure changes,fertility reduction,and pollutant leaching into groundwater.The MP concentration lies in the range of 43-2443 and 40-43000 items kg-1in agricultural and urban soils,respectively.This review provides a comprehensive roadmap for future research and a framework for soil MP risk assessment.Future studies on the uptake,accumulation,and translocation of MPs and their associated toxins by plants are essential for evaluating their risks to food security and human health.Research on MPs in terrestrial habitats lacks comprehensive data on their long-term persistence,degradation pathways,and interactions with soil components under varying environmental conditions.Additionally,limited understanding exists regarding MP impacts on soil biodiversity,pollutant mobility,and plant uptake,highlighting the need for innovative detection methods and effective pollution abatement strategies.展开更多
The combination of photo-and bio-catalysis in one-pot enables sustainable,visible-light driven cascade reactions for the synthesis of valueadded chiral chemicals under mild conditions.Despite the attractiveness of mer...The combination of photo-and bio-catalysis in one-pot enables sustainable,visible-light driven cascade reactions for the synthesis of valueadded chiral chemicals under mild conditions.Despite the attractiveness of merging the redox capability of heterogeneous photocatalysts with the excellent enantioselectivity of enzymes,developing such a reaction under one-pot conditions poses a challenge due to catalyst incompatibility.In this study,a cadmium sulfide(CdS)-enzyme composite was engineered for one-pot conversion of plastic-derived lactate into chiral compounds.By coating CdS onto alginate beads,its redox capability for the oxidation of lactate in water under visible light was preserved.The generated pyruvate subsequently underwent enantioselective transformation catalyzed by encapsulated enzymes within the beads,producing(R)-acetoin,L-alanine,or(R)-phenylacetylcarbinol.The core-shell structure of the CdS-enzyme composite protects the enzymes against radical attacks and facilitates recycling,yielding 81% of(R)-acetoin achieved after four reaction cycles.Additionally,we demonstrated an upcycling process converting post-consumer polylactic acid cups into(R)-acetoin.This work introduces a novel approach for integrating photocatalysts and enzymes to synthesize chiral chemicals from end-of-life plastics.展开更多
Moving from the most recent results on Foxg1 biology,we first summarize the available information on some special pleiotropic effectors of neurodevelopmental interest,involved in controlling both transcription and pos...Moving from the most recent results on Foxg1 biology,we first summarize the available information on some special pleiotropic effectors of neurodevelopmental interest,involved in controlling both transcription and post-transcriptional steps of gene expression.Then,after further analysis of the literature,we report evidence that,not strictly limited to neurodevelopmental effectors,such pleiotropy also applies to other transcription factors,involved in physiology and homeostasis.Furthermore,through the systematic analysis of a major public protein-protein interaction database,we gather strong evidence that the involvement of“canonical”transcription factors in post-transcriptional control of gene expression could be a pervasive phenomenon,characterizing hundreds of effectors.Finally,we discuss the biological significance of these findings and propose three evolutionary mechanisms that may have contributed to such an unexpected scenario.展开更多
This study investigated microplastics(MPs)sized 10–5000μm across stages of a conventional municipal wastewater treatment plant using multiple analytical techniques.Samples were collected via pumping and filtration,t...This study investigated microplastics(MPs)sized 10–5000μm across stages of a conventional municipal wastewater treatment plant using multiple analytical techniques.Samples were collected via pumping and filtration,treated with the Fenton reaction for wet peroxidation,and separated by density separation.Analysis employed Focal Plane Array Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FPA micro-FTIR),a widely used technique in MPs analysis,alongside the less common Laser Direct Infrared Spectroscopy(LDIR),providing complementary data on particle composition,shape,size,and colour.To enhance insights,spectroscopic methods were supplemented with Thermal Desorption Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry(TD-GC/MS),calibrated for specific polymers,to quantify MPs by mass and assess removal efficiency.Wastewater treatment effectively reduced MPs.In influent samples,concentrations reached 72 MPs/L(FTIR),2117 MPs/L(LDIR),and 177μg/L(TD-GC/MS).Primary treatments removed 41%–55%,while the wastewater treatment plant effluent contained 1 MPs/L(FTIR),93 MPs/L(LDIR),and 2μg/L(TD-GC/MS),reflecting 96%–99%removal efficiency.Activated sludge showed concentrations of 123 MPs/L(FTIR),10,800 MPs/L(LDIR),and 0.3 mg/g dry weight(TD-GC/MS),underscoring its role in MPs capture.However,sludge dewatering released significant MPs into centrifuge rejected water:484 MPs/L(FTIR),23,000 MPs/L(LDIR),and 1100μg/L(TD-GC/MS).These results highlight the effectiveness of conventional treatments in MPs removal and the critical role of sludge in capturing these contaminants.However,sludge dewatering poses a risk of reintroducing MPs into the environment.Effective sludge management should prioritize nutrient recovery and biomass valorisation to mitigate these risks and minimise harmful environmental impacts.展开更多
Peripheral artery disease(PAD)remains a significant global health issue,with current treatments primarily focused on relieving symptoms and addressingmacrovascular issues.However,critical immunoinflammatory mechanisms...Peripheral artery disease(PAD)remains a significant global health issue,with current treatments primarily focused on relieving symptoms and addressingmacrovascular issues.However,critical immunoinflammatory mechanisms are often overlooked.Recent evidence suggests that monocyte phenotypic plasticity plays a central role in PAD development,affecting atherogenesis,plaque progression,ischemia-reperfusion injury,and chronic ischemic remodeling.This narrative review aims to summarize the latest advances(2023-2025)in understanding monocyte diversity,functional states,and their changes throughout different stages of PAD.We discuss both established and emerging biomarkers,such as circulating monocyte subset proportions,functional assays,immune checkpoint expression,and multi-omics signatures,highlighting their potential for prognosis and the challenges in translating them to clinical practice.We also present a stage-specific approach to mapping out potential therapies,linking monocyte phenotypes to molecular targets and possible interventions.Additionally,we address regulatory,economic,and implementation considerations for applying these findings in a clinical setting.The goal of this review is to facilitate the development of targeted immunomodulatory strategies to improve limb and cardiovascular outcomes in PAD by combining mechanistic understanding with therapeutic innovation.展开更多
The capacity of the central nervous system for structural plasticity and regeneration is commonly believed to show a decreasing progression from“small and simple”brains to the larger,more complex brains of mammals.H...The capacity of the central nervous system for structural plasticity and regeneration is commonly believed to show a decreasing progression from“small and simple”brains to the larger,more complex brains of mammals.However,recent findings revealed that some forms of neural plasticity can show a reverse trend.Although plasticity is a well-preserved,transversal feature across the animal world,a variety of cell populations and mechanisms seem to have evolved to enable structural modifications to take place in widely different brains,likely as adaptations to selective pressures.Increasing evidence now indicates that a trade-off has occurred between regenerative(mostly stem cell–driven)plasticity and developmental(mostly juvenile)remodeling,with the latter primarily aimed not at brain repair but rather at“sculpting”the neural circuits based on experience.In particular,an evolutionary trade-off has occurred between neurogenic processes intended to support the possibility of recruiting new neurons throughout life and the different ways of obtaining new neurons,and between the different brain locations in which plasticity occurs.This review first briefly surveys the different types of plasticity and the complexity of their possible outcomes and then focuses on recent findings showing that the mammalian brain has a stem cell–independent integration of new neurons into pre-existing(mature)neural circuits.This process is still largely unknown but involves neuronal cells that have been blocked in arrested maturation since their embryonic origin(also termed“immature”or“dormant”neurons).These cells can then restart maturation throughout the animal's lifespan to become functional neurons in brain regions,such as the cerebral cortex and amygdala,that are relevant to high-order cognition and emotions.Unlike stem cell–driven postnatal/adult neurogenesis,which significantly decreases from small-brained,short-living species to large-brained ones,immature neurons are particularly abundant in large-brained,long-living mammals,including humans.The immature neural cell populations hosted in these complex brains are an interesting example of an“enlarged road”in the phylogenetic trend of plastic potential decreases commonly observed in the animal world.The topic of dormant neurons that covary with brain size and gyrencephaly represents a prospective turning point in the field of neuroplasticity,with important translational outcomes.These cells can represent a reservoir of undifferentiated neurons,potentially granting plasticity within the high-order circuits subserving the most sophisticated cognitive skills that are important in the growing brains of young,healthy individuals and are frequently affected by debilitating neurodevelopmental and degenerative disorders.展开更多
Atmospheric carbon dioxide(CO_(2))levels are escalating at an unprecedented rate,leading to the phenomenon of ocean acidification(OA).Parental exposure to acidification has the potential to enhance offspring resilienc...Atmospheric carbon dioxide(CO_(2))levels are escalating at an unprecedented rate,leading to the phenomenon of ocean acidification(OA).Parental exposure to acidification has the potential to enhance offspring resilience through cross-generation plasticity.In this study,we analyzed larval growth and transcriptomic profiles in the Pacific oyster,Crassostrea gigas,a species of significant ecological relevance,under both control and elevated CO_(2)conditions experienced by their parental generation.Our findings indicate that the oyster populations exposed to OA exhibited a higher incidence of abnormalities during the D-shaped larval stage,followed by accelerated growth at the eyed stage.Through a comparative transcriptomic investigation of eyed larvae(25 d after fertilization),we observed that parental exposure to OA substantially influenced the gene expression in the offspring.Genes associated with lipid catabolism and shell formation were notably upregulated in oysters with parental OA exposure,potentially playing a role in cross-generational conditioning and conferring resilience to OA stressors.These results underscore the profound impact of OA on oyster larval development via cross-generational mechanisms and shed light on the molecular underpinnings of cross-generation plasticity.展开更多
Magnesium alloys usually exhibit poor ductility because of their limited slip systems at room temperature.To overcome this intrinsic limitation,heterostructure design has emerged as an effective strategy for enhancing...Magnesium alloys usually exhibit poor ductility because of their limited slip systems at room temperature.To overcome this intrinsic limitation,heterostructure design has emerged as an effective strategy for enhancing their mechanical performance,yet the development of orientation-based heterogeneous magnesium alloys remains relatively unexplored.In this work,by varying the triaxial cyclic compression(TCC)applied to an extruded Mg-2.9Y(wt.%)alloy,we obtained two materials that possessed comparable bimodal grain-size characteristics but showed notable differences in orientation heterogeneity.The material processed by TCC along three orthogonal directions for five complete cycles exhibited a predominantly hard orientation,with hard refined grains embedded within coarse grains of the same hard orientation.By applying an additional compression to plane A,the other material mainly comprising the soft orientation was obtained,with hard-oriented refined grains embedded in soft-oriented coarse grains.These materials exhibited quite different tensile properties and work hardening abilities.By combining microstructural characterization and crystal plasticity modeling,deformation micromechanism of the materials under tensile loading was explored.In the former,poor deformation coordination between the different domains led to strain localization in the refined grain region.However,the latter experienced a significant orientation transition due to tensile twinning.This promoted non-basalslip and improved deformation compatibility,resulting in the more persistent hetero-deformation induced hardening.These findings provide fundamental insights into the micromechanical behavior of heterostructured alloys and offer a new strategy for designing high-performance hexagonal close-packed materials by introducing heterogeneous orientation distributions.展开更多
The scalable fabrication of stretchable conjugated polymer films via solution printing is essential for their practical application in largearea wearable electronics.However,the printed conjugated polymer films typica...The scalable fabrication of stretchable conjugated polymer films via solution printing is essential for their practical application in largearea wearable electronics.However,the printed conjugated polymer films typically exhibit high crystallinity,limiting their mechanical deformability.Herein,we propose a plasticizer-assisted printing strategy to simultaneously enhance the stretchability and electrical performance of films based on the conjugated polymer poly(3-(5-(5-methylselenophen-2-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-6-(5-methylthiophen-2-yl)-2,5-bis(4-octyltetradecyl)-2,5-dihydropyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,4-dione)(P(TDPP-Se)).The incorporation of a plasticizer trioctyl trimellitate(TOTM)promotes P(TDPP-Se)aggregation in initial solution,facilitates chain alignment under flow field,and shorten solidification process,thereby restricting randomly polymer crystallization.Consequently,a low-crystallinity film with favorable edge-on orientation,strong chain alignment and improved chain dynamics is realized,which effectively alleviates crystallites fragmentation and crack propagation under large strain.The TOTM-plasticized film exhibits approximately 2-fold improvements in fracture strain and charge mobility,along with superior mobility retention under 100%strain in comparison to the neat film.This study provides a feasible approach for microstructure control in printed stretchable conjugated polymer film.展开更多
文摘A low-molecular-weight polylactide-poly(butylene succinate)(PLA-PBS)copolymer was synthesized and incorporated into polylactide(PLA)as a novel toughening agent by solvent casting.The copolymer had the same chemical structure and function as PLA and it was used as a plasticizer to PLA.The copolymer was blended with PLA at a weight ratio from 2 to 10 wt%.Phase separation between PLA and PLA-PBS was not observed from their scanning electron microscopy(SEM)images and the crystal structure of PLA almost remained unchanged based on the X-ray diffraction(XRD)measurement.The melt flow index(MFI)of the blends was higher as the amount of PLA-PBS increased,indicating that the block copolymer did improve the mobility of the PLA chains.Moreover,tensile tests revealed that PLA with greater PLA-PBS copolymer exhibited higher elongation at break and it reached the maximum at 8 wt%of PLA-PBS in PLA,which was around 6 times higher than that of pure PLA.Furthermore,the glass transition temperature,measured by differential scanning calorimetry(DSC),markedly decreased with an increasing amount of the copolymer as it decreased from 61.2℃ for pure PLA to 41.3℃when it was blended with 10 wt%PLA-PBS copolymer.Therefore,the PLA-PBS copolymer was shown to be a promising plasticizer for fully biobased and toughened PLA.
基金Funding Statement:The authors express their gratitude for the financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32101475)the Yuemu Technology Plan Project(YMKJ202201).
文摘In this study,as the plasticizer,Camellia oleifera seed-oil-based cyclohexyl ester(COSOCE)was prepared by the reaction of cyclohexene oxide and refined C.oleifera seed oil(RCOSO)obtained by acidification hydrolysis after saponification.In addition,the structure of the target product was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared(FTIR)spectroscopy,nuclear magnetic resonance(NMR)spectroscopy,and Raman spectroscopy.COSOCE was used as plasticizer-modified polyvinyl chloride(PVC)membranes.The structure of the COSOCE-modified PVC membranes were characterized by Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy(SEM).The properties of the COSOCE-modified PVC membrane were characterized by contact angle measurements,universal testing machine,thermogravimetric analysis(TGA),and differential scanning calorimetry(DSC).The results revealed that(1)The COSOCE-modified PVC membranes exhibit a good microscopic morphology.Combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy(EDS)and contact angle measurement results,the COSOCE-modified PVC membranes are confirmed to be a hydrophilic material.(2)The modified PVC membrane with 60%COSOCE exhibited the best mechanical properties.The tensile strength reached 23.56±2.94 MPa.(3)COSOCE-modified PVC material exhibited better thermal stability,with a loss rate of less than 75%at the end of the first decomposition stage.Compared with that of the dioctyl-phthalate(DOP)-modified PVC membrane,the initial decomposition temperature of PVC was increased by 1.17°C–8.17°C,and the residual rate was increased by 0.67%–5.75%.The carbon–carbon double bond in the COSOCE molecular structure can remove the free radicals generated during the degradation of PVC material and slow down the decomposition rate of PVC.In addition,the double bond can be cross-linked partially with the PVC molecular chain containing the conjugated polyene structure,thereby increasing the movement resistance of the PVC molecular chain segment.Hence,COSOCE can replace DOP as a PVC plasticizer.
基金funded by the Scarce and Quality Economic Forest Engineering Technology Research Center(2022GCZX002)the Key Lab.of Biomass Energy and Material,Jiangsu Province(Grant No.JSBEM-S-202305).
文摘Plasticizers are essential additives in the processing of polyvinyl chloride(PVC),with phthalate plasticizers being widely used.However,these conventional plasticizers have been shown to be harmful to human health and environmentally unfriendly,necessitating the exploration of eco-friendly bio-based alternatives.In this study,Camellia oleifera seed oil,a specialty resource in China,was utilized as a raw material and reacted with 4,4′-Methylenebis(N,N-diglycidylaniline)(AG-80)to synthesize Phenyl Camellia seed Oil Ester(PCSOE).PCSOE was employed as a plasticizer to prepare modified PVC films with varying concentrations,with the conventional plasticizer dioctyl phthalate(DOP)serving as a control.Experimental results demonstrate that PSCOE-plasticized PVC films exhibit enhanced hydrophilicity,tensile strength,and thermal stability compared to DOP-modified PVC films.The contact angle of PSCOE-plasticized PVC films ranges from 66.26°to 78.48°,which is generally lower than the contact angle of DOP-modified PVC films at 78.40°,indicating improved hydrophilicity due to the modification with PCSOE.The tensile strength of PSCOE-plasticized PVC films ranges from 17.73 to 20.17 MPa,all surpassing the value of 16.41 MPa for DOP-modified PVC films.Moreover,the temperatures corresponding to 5%,10%,and 50%weight loss for PVC samples modified with PCSOE are higher than those for DOP.Hence,PCSOE presents a viable alternative to DOP as a plasticizer for PVC materials.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82071383,82371392(to BN)the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province of China(Key Project),No.ZR2020KH007(to BN)+1 种基金“Taishan Scholar Distinguished Expert Program”of Shandong Province,No.tstp20231257(to BN)Health Commission Science and Technology Plan Project of Jinan,No.2023-1-8(to YZ).
文摘Lactate serves as a key energy metabolite in the central nervous system,facilitating essential brain functions,including energy supply,signaling,and epigenetic modulation.Moreover,it links epigenetic modifications with metabolic reprogramming.Nonetheless,the specific mechanisms and roles of this connection in astrocytes remain unclear.Therefore,this review aims to explore the role and specific mechanisms of lactate in the metabolic reprogramming of astrocytes in the central nervous system.The close relationship between epigenetic modifications and metabolic reprogramming was discussed.Therapeutic strategies for targeting metabolic reprogramming in astrocytes in the central nervous system were also outlined to guide future research in central nervous system diseases.In the nervous system,lactate plays an essential role.However,its mechanism of action as a bridge between metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic modifications in the nervous system requires future investigation.The involvement of lactate in epigenetic modifications is currently a hot research topic,especially in lactylation modification,a key determinant in this process.Lactate also indirectly regulates various epigenetic modifications,such as N6-methyladenosine,acetylation,ubiquitination,and phosphorylation modifications,which are closely linked to several neurological disorders.In addition,exploring the clinical applications and potential therapeutic strategies of lactic acid provides new insights for future neurological disease treatments.
文摘Diamonds were formed in the mantle lithosphere,mostly at depths of 150~200km in the centres of Precambrian cratons,the buoyant ancient cores of continents.From there they were normally transported into the upper crust in kimberlite pipes whose diamonds are largely colourless and light yellow related to trace element N(Ia type),although brown,green,and more rarely blue-coloured diamonds are related to lattice defect and trace amounts of H,more rarely B and Ni.Pink diamonds are extremely rare in the approximately 90 diamondiferous pipes mined globally.Although small quantities have been discovered elsewhere,about 90%have been mined from the ca.1.3Ga Argyle diamond pipe in Western Australia,with the Arkhangelskaya diamond pipe in Russia the only other significant source.The pink colour at both Argyle and Arkhangelskaya is unrelated to trace elements and instead results from absorption of light from nanoscale(550nm)defects related to shear stress and plastic deformation.Macroscopically,defects are shown by glide planes,lamellae,and grain lines imposed on the originally colourless diamonds derived from their mantle source.The key question is why these defects were uniquely acquired in diamonds in the Argyle and Arkhangelskaya pipes.Unlike most diamondiferous pipes,Argyle is a rare diamondiferous volatile-rich lamproite pipe that was emplaced into the multiply deformed and rifted NNE-trending Halls Creek Orogen on the margin of the Kimberley Craton.Similarly,Arkhangelskaya in the Devonian Lomonosov kimberlite cluster is a volatile-rich low-Ti type kimberlite,a close relative to lamproite,that was emplaced into the multiply deformed Lapland-Kola Orogen on the rifted margin of the Kola Craton.These craton margins are underlain by subduction-induced volatile-enriched metasomatized mantle lithosphere in contrast to the more primeval mantle under craton centres.It is thus likely that shear stresses were exacerbated at Argyle and Arkangelskaya by rapid vertical emplacement of the anomalous volatile-enriched magmas at supercritical pressures and temperatures,that induced catastrophic phase separation of these volatiles and'mini seismic events'during rapid pressure drops during ascent from 200km depth to the surface.Such a mechanism is consistent with the presence of strongly resorbed and plastically deformed small brown industrial diamonds in the Argyle pipe.From a China perspective,it is potentially important that at 1.3Ga the alkaline Argyle pipe in northern Australia is placed adjacent to the North China Craton(NCC),with numerous world-class mineral deposits including the giant ca.1.4~1.2Ga alkaline Bayan Obo REE system on its margin.However,it is the southeastern margin of the Yangtze Craton and the Jiangnan Orogen with their lamproite pipes derived from metasomatized mantle lithosphere that present the most prospective regions for pink diamond occurrences.
文摘The strength and damping properties of Co-Ni-Cr-Mo-based alloys with 0.5wt%Nb addition after various plastic deformation and heat treatment processes were investigated.Through Vickers hardness tests,free resonance Young's modulus measurements,and microstructure analysis,the effects of dislocation density,vacancy formation,and recrystallization on the alloy performance were clarified.Results indicate that increasing the rolling reduction enhances damping property due to higher dislocation density,whereas aging below the recrystallization temperature reduces damping property via dislocation pinning by the Suzuki effect.Recrystallization heat treatment restores the original structure and damping level.This alloy possesses tensile strength of approximately 1500 MPa and logarithmic decrement valueδ^(-1) in the range of 2×10^(-4)–3×10^(-4),demonstrating superior mechanical properties compared with the Ti-based alloys,which makes it an excellent candidate material for ultrasonic tools and medical applications.
基金funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Stiftungsupported by DFG (SCH W534/6-1 to SWS)
文摘The dentate gyrus of the hippocampus is a plastic structure that displays modifications at different levels in response to positive stimuli as well as to negative conditions such as brain damage.The latter involves global alterations,making understanding plastic responses triggered by local damage difficult.One key feature of the dentate gyrus is that it contains a well-defined neurogenic niche,the subgranular zone,and beyond neurogenesis,newly born granule cells may maintain a“young”phenotype throughout life,adding to the plastic nature of the structure.Here,we present a novel experimental model of local brain damage in organotypic entorhino-hippocampal cultures that results in the activation of adjacent newly born granule cells.A small piece of filter paper was placed on the surface of the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus,which evoked a foreign body reaction of astrocytes,along with the activation of local young neurons expressing doublecortin.Forty-eight hours after foreign body placement,the number of doublecortin-immunoreactive cells increased in the subgranular zone in the direct vicinity of the foreign body,whereas overall increased doublecortin immunoreactivity was observed in the granule cell layer and molecular layer of the dentate gyrus.Foreign body placement in the pyramidal layer of the CA1 region evoked a comparable local astroglial reaction but did not lead to an increase in doublecortin-immunoreactive in either the CA1 region or the adjacent dentate gyrus.Seven days after foreign body placement in the dentate gyrus,the increase in doublecortin-immunoreactivity was no longer observed,indicating the transient activation of young cells.However,7 days after foreign body placement,the number of doublecortin-immunoreactive granule cells coimmunoreactive for calbindin was lower than that under the control conditions.As calbindin is a marker for mature granule cells,this result suggests that activated young cells remain at a more immature stage following foreign body placement.Live imaging of retrovirally green fluorescent protein-labeled newly born granule cells revealed the orientation and growth of their dendrites toward the foreign body placement.This novel experimental model of foreign body placement in organotypic entorhino-hippocampal cultures could serve as a valuable tool for studying both glial reactivity and neuronal plasticity,specifically of newly born neurons under controlled in vitro conditions.
基金financially supported by King Abdulaziz University,Deanship of Scientific Research(DSR)。
文摘Neuronal plasticity,the brain's ability to adapt structurally and functionally,is essential for learning,memory,and recovery from injuries.In neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease,this plasticity is disrupted,leading to cognitive and motor deficits.This review explores the mechanisms of neuronal plasticity and its effect on Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.Alzheimer's disease features amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles that impair synaptic function,while Parkinson's disease involves the loss of dopaminergic neurons affecting motor control.Enhancing neuronal plasticity offers therapeutic potential for these diseases.A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed,Scopus,and Google Scholar,focusing on studies of neuronal plasticity in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.Data synthesis identified key themes such as synaptic mechanisms,neurogenesis,and therapeutic strategies,linking molecular insights to clinical applications.Results highlight that targeting synaptic plasticity mechanisms,such as long-term potentiation and long-term depression,shows promise.Neurotrophic factors,advanced imaging techniques,and molecular tools(e.g.,clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and optogenetics)are crucial in understanding and enhancing plasticity.Current therapies,including dopamine replacement,deep brain stimulation,and lifestyle interventions,demonstrate the potential to alleviate symptoms and improve outcomes.In conclusion,enhancing neuronal plasticity through targeted therapies holds significant promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases.Future research should integrate multidisciplinary approaches to fully harness the therapeutic potential of neuronal plasticity in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
基金supported by Japan Society forthe Promotion of Science(JSPS)Grants-in-Aidfor Scientific Research(KAKENHI)(20H05894,20H05903,21K15136,22K21351,23H02518A,23H02663,and 23K18147 to SS),JST-CREST(JPMJCR24T4 to SS),the World PremierInternational Research Center Initiative(WPI)fromthe Ministry of Education,Culture,Sports,Scienceand Technology(MEXT)to SS(WPI-IIIS),the TopRunners in Strategy of Transborder AdvancedResearches(TRiSTAR)by the MEXT to SSJapanAgency for Medical Research and Development(AMED)(JP21zf0127005 to SS),Cell ScienceResearch Foundation Grant to YI,38th Brain ScienceFoundation Research Grant to YI,Research Granton Biogenic Amines and Neurological Diseases(Sumitomo pharma)to YI.
文摘Sleep is a fundamental biological process essential for maintaining brain function,cognitive performance,and overall health.Despite over a century of research,the mechanisms underlying sleep homeostasis-the process by which the need for sleep accumulates during wakefulness and dissipates during sleep-remain incompletely understood.This article explores the latest advancements in sleep research,focusing on the role of synaptic plasticity in sleep homeostasis,as illuminated by Sawada et al.(2024).
文摘Nonlinear static procedures are widely adopted in structural engineering practice for seismic performance assessment due to their simplicity and computational efficiency.However,their reliability depends heavily on how the nonlinear behaviour of structural components is represented.The recent earthquakes in Albania(2019)and Türkiye(2023)have underscored the need for accurate assessment techniques,particularly for older reinforced concrete buildings with poor detailing.This study quantifies the discrepancies between default and user-defined component modelling in pushover analysis of pre-modern reinforced concrete structures,analysing two representative low-and mid-rise reinforced concrete frame buildings.The lumped plasticity approach incorporates moment-rotation relationships derived from actual member properties and reinforcement configurations,while the distributed plasticity approach uses software-generated default properties based on modern codes.Results show that the distributed plasticity models systematically overestimate both the strength and the deformation capacity by up to 35%compared to lumped plasticity models,especially in buildings with poor detailing and low concrete strength.These findings demonstrate that default software procedures,widely used in practice but not validated for pre-modern structures,produce dangerously unconservative seismic performance estimates.The study provides quantitative evidence of the critical need for tailored modelling strategies that reflect the actual conditions of the existing building stock.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52161145409,21976116)SAFEA of China("Belt and Road"Innovative Talent Exchange Foreign Expert Project No.2023041004L)+1 种基金(High-end Foreign Expert Project No.G2023041021L)Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation of Germany(Group-Linkage Program).
文摘Photoreforming poly(lactic acid)(PLA)plastics into pyruvic acid(PA)coupled with hydrogen evolution is of great significance for sustainable development.However,a significant challenge lies inα-OH bond cleaving of lactic acid(LA).Herein,CdS/Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12)composite is fabricated,bridged by Bi−S bonds,through in-situ growth of CdS nanoparticles on Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12)nanoflowers for the successive removal of hydrogen fromα-C in LA.In-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the S-scheme carriers transfer route and interfacial Bi−S bond in CdS/Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12).Consequently,the photo-electrons and holes with extended lifetimes and strong redox potential accumulate in the CdS conduction band and Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12)valence band,respectively,as evidenced by in-situ electron spin resonance and time-resolved photoluminescence.This facilitates the generation of·OH radicals,which further participate in the successive dehydrogenation reaction of LA.Consequently,the photoreforming efficiencies of converting PLA into PA and H_(2)by CdS/Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12)are 1.7 and 3.16 mmol g^(-1)h^(-1),which are respectively 2.8 and 22 times higher than that by pristine Bi_(4)Ti_(3)O_(12).The present work provides a new approach for designing S-scheme to achieve hydrogen production and value-added conversion of plastics.
文摘Microplastics(MPs)are ubiquitous and pose an environmental risk.This review examined MP pollution in terrestrial ecosystems from a myriad of poorly understood sources.Knowledge regarding the occurrence sources,migration behaviors,ecotoxicology,absorption mechanisms,and effects of MPs has also been fully summarized.Microplastics interact with contaminants,such as antibiotics,pesticides,heavy metals,etc.,and may act as vectors for contaminant transfer in terrestrial ecosystems.The transportation and retention of MPs in soil are governed by interactions among their inherent properties,such as size,shape,surface charge,and density.Interestingly,MP migration into soil is lacking research.The MPs and nanoplastics were also found in edible fruits and vegetables.The MP contamination in soil affects ecosystems,causing soil structure changes,fertility reduction,and pollutant leaching into groundwater.The MP concentration lies in the range of 43-2443 and 40-43000 items kg-1in agricultural and urban soils,respectively.This review provides a comprehensive roadmap for future research and a framework for soil MP risk assessment.Future studies on the uptake,accumulation,and translocation of MPs and their associated toxins by plants are essential for evaluating their risks to food security and human health.Research on MPs in terrestrial habitats lacks comprehensive data on their long-term persistence,degradation pathways,and interactions with soil components under varying environmental conditions.Additionally,limited understanding exists regarding MP impacts on soil biodiversity,pollutant mobility,and plant uptake,highlighting the need for innovative detection methods and effective pollution abatement strategies.
基金We thank MOE Tier-2 project(MOE-T2EP10221-0020)from Ministry of EducationSingapore and the National Research Foundation,Singapore,NRF Investigatorship(NRFI07-2021-0015)for the financial support.
文摘The combination of photo-and bio-catalysis in one-pot enables sustainable,visible-light driven cascade reactions for the synthesis of valueadded chiral chemicals under mild conditions.Despite the attractiveness of merging the redox capability of heterogeneous photocatalysts with the excellent enantioselectivity of enzymes,developing such a reaction under one-pot conditions poses a challenge due to catalyst incompatibility.In this study,a cadmium sulfide(CdS)-enzyme composite was engineered for one-pot conversion of plastic-derived lactate into chiral compounds.By coating CdS onto alginate beads,its redox capability for the oxidation of lactate in water under visible light was preserved.The generated pyruvate subsequently underwent enantioselective transformation catalyzed by encapsulated enzymes within the beads,producing(R)-acetoin,L-alanine,or(R)-phenylacetylcarbinol.The core-shell structure of the CdS-enzyme composite protects the enzymes against radical attacks and facilitates recycling,yielding 81% of(R)-acetoin achieved after four reaction cycles.Additionally,we demonstrated an upcycling process converting post-consumer polylactic acid cups into(R)-acetoin.This work introduces a novel approach for integrating photocatalysts and enzymes to synthesize chiral chemicals from end-of-life plastics.
基金supported by SISSA(intramural funding to AM)International FOXG1 Research Foundation(Grant to AM)+1 种基金Italian Ministery of University and Research(Grant PRIN222022M95RC7 to AM)Fondazione Telethon(Grant GMR22T2018 to AM).
文摘Moving from the most recent results on Foxg1 biology,we first summarize the available information on some special pleiotropic effectors of neurodevelopmental interest,involved in controlling both transcription and post-transcriptional steps of gene expression.Then,after further analysis of the literature,we report evidence that,not strictly limited to neurodevelopmental effectors,such pleiotropy also applies to other transcription factors,involved in physiology and homeostasis.Furthermore,through the systematic analysis of a major public protein-protein interaction database,we gather strong evidence that the involvement of“canonical”transcription factors in post-transcriptional control of gene expression could be a pervasive phenomenon,characterizing hundreds of effectors.Finally,we discuss the biological significance of these findings and propose three evolutionary mechanisms that may have contributed to such an unexpected scenario.
基金the Italian Ministry of Universities and Research for funding his PhD scholarship(37th Cycle Ph D Programmes supported by ESF REACT-EU funds,National Operational Programme on Research and Innovation)CSGI(Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase-Center for Colloid and Surface Science),Florence(Italy)for financial support.
文摘This study investigated microplastics(MPs)sized 10–5000μm across stages of a conventional municipal wastewater treatment plant using multiple analytical techniques.Samples were collected via pumping and filtration,treated with the Fenton reaction for wet peroxidation,and separated by density separation.Analysis employed Focal Plane Array Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FPA micro-FTIR),a widely used technique in MPs analysis,alongside the less common Laser Direct Infrared Spectroscopy(LDIR),providing complementary data on particle composition,shape,size,and colour.To enhance insights,spectroscopic methods were supplemented with Thermal Desorption Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry(TD-GC/MS),calibrated for specific polymers,to quantify MPs by mass and assess removal efficiency.Wastewater treatment effectively reduced MPs.In influent samples,concentrations reached 72 MPs/L(FTIR),2117 MPs/L(LDIR),and 177μg/L(TD-GC/MS).Primary treatments removed 41%–55%,while the wastewater treatment plant effluent contained 1 MPs/L(FTIR),93 MPs/L(LDIR),and 2μg/L(TD-GC/MS),reflecting 96%–99%removal efficiency.Activated sludge showed concentrations of 123 MPs/L(FTIR),10,800 MPs/L(LDIR),and 0.3 mg/g dry weight(TD-GC/MS),underscoring its role in MPs capture.However,sludge dewatering released significant MPs into centrifuge rejected water:484 MPs/L(FTIR),23,000 MPs/L(LDIR),and 1100μg/L(TD-GC/MS).These results highlight the effectiveness of conventional treatments in MPs removal and the critical role of sludge in capturing these contaminants.However,sludge dewatering poses a risk of reintroducing MPs into the environment.Effective sludge management should prioritize nutrient recovery and biomass valorisation to mitigate these risks and minimise harmful environmental impacts.
文摘Peripheral artery disease(PAD)remains a significant global health issue,with current treatments primarily focused on relieving symptoms and addressingmacrovascular issues.However,critical immunoinflammatory mechanisms are often overlooked.Recent evidence suggests that monocyte phenotypic plasticity plays a central role in PAD development,affecting atherogenesis,plaque progression,ischemia-reperfusion injury,and chronic ischemic remodeling.This narrative review aims to summarize the latest advances(2023-2025)in understanding monocyte diversity,functional states,and their changes throughout different stages of PAD.We discuss both established and emerging biomarkers,such as circulating monocyte subset proportions,functional assays,immune checkpoint expression,and multi-omics signatures,highlighting their potential for prognosis and the challenges in translating them to clinical practice.We also present a stage-specific approach to mapping out potential therapies,linking monocyte phenotypes to molecular targets and possible interventions.Additionally,we address regulatory,economic,and implementation considerations for applying these findings in a clinical setting.The goal of this review is to facilitate the development of targeted immunomodulatory strategies to improve limb and cardiovascular outcomes in PAD by combining mechanistic understanding with therapeutic innovation.
基金supported by Progetto Trapezio,Compagnia di San Paolo(67935-2021.2174),to LBFondazione CRT(Cassa di Risparmio di Torino,RF=2022.0618),to LBPRIN2022(grant 2022LB4X3N),to LB。
文摘The capacity of the central nervous system for structural plasticity and regeneration is commonly believed to show a decreasing progression from“small and simple”brains to the larger,more complex brains of mammals.However,recent findings revealed that some forms of neural plasticity can show a reverse trend.Although plasticity is a well-preserved,transversal feature across the animal world,a variety of cell populations and mechanisms seem to have evolved to enable structural modifications to take place in widely different brains,likely as adaptations to selective pressures.Increasing evidence now indicates that a trade-off has occurred between regenerative(mostly stem cell–driven)plasticity and developmental(mostly juvenile)remodeling,with the latter primarily aimed not at brain repair but rather at“sculpting”the neural circuits based on experience.In particular,an evolutionary trade-off has occurred between neurogenic processes intended to support the possibility of recruiting new neurons throughout life and the different ways of obtaining new neurons,and between the different brain locations in which plasticity occurs.This review first briefly surveys the different types of plasticity and the complexity of their possible outcomes and then focuses on recent findings showing that the mammalian brain has a stem cell–independent integration of new neurons into pre-existing(mature)neural circuits.This process is still largely unknown but involves neuronal cells that have been blocked in arrested maturation since their embryonic origin(also termed“immature”or“dormant”neurons).These cells can then restart maturation throughout the animal's lifespan to become functional neurons in brain regions,such as the cerebral cortex and amygdala,that are relevant to high-order cognition and emotions.Unlike stem cell–driven postnatal/adult neurogenesis,which significantly decreases from small-brained,short-living species to large-brained ones,immature neurons are particularly abundant in large-brained,long-living mammals,including humans.The immature neural cell populations hosted in these complex brains are an interesting example of an“enlarged road”in the phylogenetic trend of plastic potential decreases commonly observed in the animal world.The topic of dormant neurons that covary with brain size and gyrencephaly represents a prospective turning point in the field of neuroplasticity,with important translational outcomes.These cells can represent a reservoir of undifferentiated neurons,potentially granting plasticity within the high-order circuits subserving the most sophisticated cognitive skills that are important in the growing brains of young,healthy individuals and are frequently affected by debilitating neurodevelopmental and degenerative disorders.
基金Supported by the Key Research and Development Program of Shandong(No.2022LZGC015)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFD2401400)+1 种基金the Taishan Scholars Program,the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFD2400304)the Agricultural Seed Project of Shandong Key R&D Program(No.2024LZGCQY003)。
文摘Atmospheric carbon dioxide(CO_(2))levels are escalating at an unprecedented rate,leading to the phenomenon of ocean acidification(OA).Parental exposure to acidification has the potential to enhance offspring resilience through cross-generation plasticity.In this study,we analyzed larval growth and transcriptomic profiles in the Pacific oyster,Crassostrea gigas,a species of significant ecological relevance,under both control and elevated CO_(2)conditions experienced by their parental generation.Our findings indicate that the oyster populations exposed to OA exhibited a higher incidence of abnormalities during the D-shaped larval stage,followed by accelerated growth at the eyed stage.Through a comparative transcriptomic investigation of eyed larvae(25 d after fertilization),we observed that parental exposure to OA substantially influenced the gene expression in the offspring.Genes associated with lipid catabolism and shell formation were notably upregulated in oysters with parental OA exposure,potentially playing a role in cross-generational conditioning and conferring resilience to OA stressors.These results underscore the profound impact of OA on oyster larval development via cross-generational mechanisms and shed light on the molecular underpinnings of cross-generation plasticity.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFA1200203)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52371097,51922026,52301136)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Nos.X2025003201,N25QNR005 and N25ZLE004)the Youth Science Foundation Project(Category A)of Liaoning Province(No.2025JH6/101100006).
文摘Magnesium alloys usually exhibit poor ductility because of their limited slip systems at room temperature.To overcome this intrinsic limitation,heterostructure design has emerged as an effective strategy for enhancing their mechanical performance,yet the development of orientation-based heterogeneous magnesium alloys remains relatively unexplored.In this work,by varying the triaxial cyclic compression(TCC)applied to an extruded Mg-2.9Y(wt.%)alloy,we obtained two materials that possessed comparable bimodal grain-size characteristics but showed notable differences in orientation heterogeneity.The material processed by TCC along three orthogonal directions for five complete cycles exhibited a predominantly hard orientation,with hard refined grains embedded within coarse grains of the same hard orientation.By applying an additional compression to plane A,the other material mainly comprising the soft orientation was obtained,with hard-oriented refined grains embedded in soft-oriented coarse grains.These materials exhibited quite different tensile properties and work hardening abilities.By combining microstructural characterization and crystal plasticity modeling,deformation micromechanism of the materials under tensile loading was explored.In the former,poor deformation coordination between the different domains led to strain localization in the refined grain region.However,the latter experienced a significant orientation transition due to tensile twinning.This promoted non-basalslip and improved deformation compatibility,resulting in the more persistent hetero-deformation induced hardening.These findings provide fundamental insights into the micromechanical behavior of heterostructured alloys and offer a new strategy for designing high-performance hexagonal close-packed materials by introducing heterogeneous orientation distributions.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52433009)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.GK202501005)the State Key Laboratory of Polymer Science and Technology(No.PST-KF2025-07)。
文摘The scalable fabrication of stretchable conjugated polymer films via solution printing is essential for their practical application in largearea wearable electronics.However,the printed conjugated polymer films typically exhibit high crystallinity,limiting their mechanical deformability.Herein,we propose a plasticizer-assisted printing strategy to simultaneously enhance the stretchability and electrical performance of films based on the conjugated polymer poly(3-(5-(5-methylselenophen-2-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-6-(5-methylthiophen-2-yl)-2,5-bis(4-octyltetradecyl)-2,5-dihydropyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,4-dione)(P(TDPP-Se)).The incorporation of a plasticizer trioctyl trimellitate(TOTM)promotes P(TDPP-Se)aggregation in initial solution,facilitates chain alignment under flow field,and shorten solidification process,thereby restricting randomly polymer crystallization.Consequently,a low-crystallinity film with favorable edge-on orientation,strong chain alignment and improved chain dynamics is realized,which effectively alleviates crystallites fragmentation and crack propagation under large strain.The TOTM-plasticized film exhibits approximately 2-fold improvements in fracture strain and charge mobility,along with superior mobility retention under 100%strain in comparison to the neat film.This study provides a feasible approach for microstructure control in printed stretchable conjugated polymer film.
