Search Results (23,577)

Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging aquatic contaminants that pose environmental and public health risks due to their persistence, ubiquity, and ability to adsorb co-contaminants. This scoping review synthesises findings from 57 experimental studies and five review studies published between 2019 and 2025 on the use of biochar-based materials for the removal of microplastics from water and wastewater. Guided by the hypothesis that surface-modified biochars, such as magnetised, surfactant-coated, or chemically activated forms, achieve high removal efficiencies through multimodal mechanisms (e.g., electrostatic attraction, hydrophobic interactions, π–π stacking, and physical entrapment), this review applies PRISMA-based protocols to systematically evaluate biochar feedstocks, pyrolysis conditions, surface modifications, polymer types, removal mechanisms, and regeneration approaches. Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed were searched until 30 May 2025 (English-only), and 62 studies were included. The review was not registered, and no protocol was prepared. The results confirm a high removal efficiency (>90%) in most experimental studies, particularly under controlled laboratory conditions and using pristine polystyrene. However, the performance declines significantly in complex matrices (e.g., wastewater and surface water) owing to dissolved organic matter, ionic competition, and particle heterogeneity, thus supporting the guiding hypothesis. This review also identifies critical methodological gaps, including narrow plastic typologies, a lack of standardised testing protocols, and limited field-scale validation. Addressing these gaps through environmentally realistic testing, regeneration optimisation, and harmonised methods is essential for transitioning biochar from a promising sorbent to a practical water treatment solution. Full article

Background: Rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM) are microorganisms with variable pathogenicity, which can cause different clinical forms of mycobacterioses. They can form structured communities at the liquid-air interface and adhere to animate and inanimate solid surfaces, characterizing one of their most powerful mechanisms of resistance and survival, named biofilms. Objectives: Here, a novel series of sulfamethoxazole (SMTZ) Schiff bases were obtained by the condensation of the primary amine from SMTZ core with six different aldehydes to evaluate their antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities, as well as physicochemical and in silico characteristics. Methods: The compounds L1–L6 included: pyridoxal hydrochloride (L1), salicylaldehyde (L2), 3-methoxysalicylaldehyde (L3), 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde (L4), 3-allylsalicylaldehyde (L5), and 4-(diethylamino)salicylaldehyde (L6). MIC determination was performed against standard strains and seven clinical isolates. Time-kill assays, biofilm inhibition assays, atomic force microscopy, and peripheral blood mononuclear cell cytotoxicity assays were carried out. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations using quantum descriptors, Mulliken charges, Fukui functions, non-covalent interactions (NCI), and reduced density gradient (RDG), along with molecular docking calculations to DHS, LasR, and PqsR, supported the experimental trend. Results: The compounds L1–L6 showed a significant capacity to inhibit the growth of RGM, with MIC values in the range of 0.61 to 1.22 μg mL⁻¹, which are significantly lower than those observed for the parent compound SMTZ, demonstrating superior antimicrobial potency. To deepen antimicrobial activity assays, L1 was chosen for further evaluations and showed a significant ability to inhibit the growth of RGM in both planktonic and biofilm forms. In addition, atomic force microscopy views great changes in topography, electrical force, and nanomechanical properties of microorganisms. The cytotoxic assays with the peripheral blood mononuclear cell model suggest that the new compound may be considered as an antimicrobial alternative, as well as a safe substance showing selectivity indexes in the range of efficacy. Conclusions: Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to obtain quantum descriptors, Mulliken charges, Fukui functions, non-covalent interactions (NCI), and reduced density gradient (RDG), which, with molecular docking calculations to DHS, LasR, and PqsR, supported the experimental trend. Full article

Introduction: Fancy rope-skipping is an emerging physical activity with numerous psychosocial benefits. However, its specific advantages for cognitive functions like attention, compared to traditional physical education, remain underexplored. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of a 12-week fancy rope-skipping intervention on various domains of attention in fifth-grade students, compared to a standard physical education program. We hypothesized that the fancy rope-skipping intervention would yield significant improvements in one or more domains of attention (allocation, span, stability, and shifting). Methods: Two classes were randomly assigned as an experimental group (n = 28), which underwent a fancy rope-skipping program, and a control group (n = 31), which followed the regular syllabus. Attention was assessed using the Attention Quality Test before and after the intervention. Results: After controlling for pre-test scores, analysis of covariance revealed that the experimental group performed significantly better on the Graphic Discrimination Test, which measures attention allocation (F_(1,46) = 9.184, p = 0.004). No significant between-group differences were found in attention span, stability, or shifting. Conclusions: Fancy rope-skipping can specifically improve the ability to allocate attention in primary school students, highlighting its potential as a targeted intervention within physical education. Full article

Accurate prediction of photosynthetic parameters is pivotal for precision viticulture, as it enables non-invasive monitoring of plant physiological status and informed management decisions. In this study, spectral reflectance data were used to predict key photosynthetic parameters such as assimilation rate (A), effective photosystem II (PSII) quantum yield (${\Phi }_{\mathrm{PSII}}$), and electron transport rate (ETR), as well as stem and leaf water potential (${\Psi }_{\mathrm{stem}}$ and ${\Psi }_{\mathrm{leaf}}$), in Vitis vinifera (cv. Müller-Thurgau) grown in an experimental vineyard in Lower Franconia (Germany). Measurements were obtained on 25 July, 7 August, and 12 August 2024 using a LI-COR LI-6800 system and a PSR+ hyperspectral spectroradiometer. Various machine learning models (SVR, Lasso, ElasticNet, Ridge, PLSR, a simple ANN, and Random Forest) were evaluated, both as standalone predictors and as base learners in a stacking ensemble regressor with a Random Forest meta-learner. First derivative reflectance (FDR) preprocessing enhanced predictive performance, particularly for ${\Phi }_{\mathrm{PSII}}$ and ETR, with the ensemble approach achieving R² values up to 0.92 for ${\Phi }_{\mathrm{PSII}}$ and 0.85 for A at 1 nm resolution. At coarser spectral resolutions, predictive accuracy declined, though FDR preprocessing provided some mitigation of the performance loss. Diurnal patterns revealed that morning to mid-morning measurements, particularly between 9:00 and 11:00, captured peak photosynthetic activity, making them optimal for assessing vine vigor, while midday water potential declines indicated favorable timing for irrigation scheduling. These findings demonstrate the potential of integrating hyperspectral data with ensemble machine learning and FDR preprocessing for accurate, scalable, and high-throughput monitoring of grapevine physiology, supporting real-time vineyard management and the use of cost-effective sensors under diverse environmental conditions. Full article

Grape pomace is the principal by-product of the winemaking industry, with an estimated global production of 14 million tonnes annually. Traditional livestock systems often incorporate local agroindustrial by-products into ruminant diets, and grape pomace is particularly notable for its high concentrations of bioactive compounds. These grape-derived molecules may exert beneficial effects on animal oxidative balance, biochemical status and productive performance, offering an environmentally and economically sustainable alternative to conventional feed ingredients that may be incorporated into the milk produced. This study evaluated the impact of incorporating varying inclusion levels (0, 5, 10 and 15% DM) of ensiled white grape pomace (WGP) into isoenergetic and isoproteic diets on the nutritional and technological characteristics of goat milk. Eighty-eight Murciano-Granadina dairy goats were selected and allocated into eight homogeneous batches (n = 11 per batch) based on physiological traits. Following a pre-experimental sampling, each diet was randomly assigned to two batches, and the feeding trial lasted eight weeks. After a two-week dietary adaptation period, four biweekly samplings were conducted to obtain representative bulk tank milk samples from each batch. Milk samples were analysed for gross composition, pH, mineral profile, fatty acid composition, coagulation properties, colorimetric parameters and antioxidant capacity. WGP consumption significantly increased milk fat content, improved the lipid profile from a human health perspective, accelerated curd aggregation and elevated the yellowness index. Moreover, notable changes were observed in the antioxidant activity of the milk. Despite these effects, the overall composition of the milk remained largely unchanged, which is a key factor in preserving its technological properties. Nevertheless, the final product demonstrated enhanced biological quality, reinforcing its value as a functional food for human consumption. Full article

This study investigates the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in RK-13 cells infected with three equine viruses representing different families: equine arteritis virus (EAV) (Arteriviridae), equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) (Herpesviridae), and equine rhinitis B virus (ERBV) (Picornaviridae). VOCs, which are byproducts of cellular metabolism and potential non-invasive diagnostic markers, were analyzed using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Since viruses do not possess intrinsic metabolic activity, the observed changes in the VOC profiles were attributed to host responses, such as metabolic reprogramming, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. We hypothesized that each viral infection induces distinct metabolic changes, resulting in characteristic VOC signatures that mirror the virus type, replication kinetics, and cytopathic effects. Notably, viruses with rapid cytopathic effects (e.g., EHV-1) were anticipated to trigger more pronounced VOC alterations. In our experimental design, RK-13 cells were infected at a multiplicity of infection of 1 and incubated for 24 h, 48 h, or 72 h. Distinct VOC profiles emerged, with significant elevations in compounds like 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, particularly in EHV-1 infections, and selective increases in acetophenone and benzaldehyde. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the VOC concentration data showed the clear separation of data from viruses from different families. These findings support the potential of VOC profiling as a rapid diagnostic tool for viral infections. Full article

Background/Objectives: The therapeutic potential of selective trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) agonists has been established in multiple animal models of depression and anxiety. PTSD is a debilitating psychiatric disorder frequently characterized by anxiety and often comorbid with major depressive disorder. Complex PTSD represents an even more severe clinical presentation, emerging from prolonged or repeated exposure to traumatic events. Recent studies indicate that TAAR1 agonists can attenuate anxiety-like behaviors in experimental models of PTSD; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect remain poorly understood. In this study, we evaluated whether TAAR1 agonism modulates PTSD-related neurochemical and molecular changes within the hippocampus and striatum. Methods: Post-traumatic stress was modeled using predator stress, a validated experimental paradigm relevant to complex PTSD. Treatment consisted of intraperitoneal administration of the TAAR1 agonist LK00764. Monoamine neurotransmitters and their metabolites were quantified, and the expression of genes implicated in noradrenergic, dopaminergic, and serotonergic signaling pathways was assessed. In addition, gene network reconstruction was performed using artificial intelligence to identify TAAR1-dependent regulatory interactions. Results: Treatment with a TAAR1 agonist fully prevented behavioral abnormalities in the experimental model of complex PTSD. Neurochemical analyses revealed decreased 5-HT levels in the hippocampus and reduced dopamine and metabolite concentrations in the striatum following TAAR1 agonism. Moreover, TAAR1 activation was associated with increased expression of the neurotrophic factor BDNF in the striatum. Gene network reconstruction identified a distinct molecular hub within the PTSD network, comprising TAAR1-coexpressed genes, their encoded proteins, and interconnected signaling pathways, suggesting a tightly regulated feedback loop. Conclusions: These findings provide novel evidence that TAAR1 agonists exert protective effects against complex PTSD-related behavioral and neurochemical abnormalities. The reconstructed TAAR1-centered gene network offers mechanistic insight into receptor-dependent regulation of monoaminergic signaling and neuroplasticity, supporting further exploration of TAAR1 agonists as promising therapeutic candidates for PTSD. Full article

This study is motivated by the severe tribological regime of PA6 composites in VR platforms operating under dry or boundary lubrication, where alternating shear during foot rotation, localised contact pressures, and third-body abrasion concurrently challenge wear resistance and retention of strength. This paper presents the results of research into the properties of composites based on polyamide PA6 and molybdenum disulphide, obtained by combining the components through high-intensity mechanochemical activation in a planetary mill and classical mixing in a turbulence mixer. We demonstrate that varying the energy of the premixing stage (mechanochemical activation versus low-energy premixing) serves as an effective means of interfacial engineering in PA6/MoS₂ composites, enabling simultaneous enhancement of mechanical and tribological properties at low filler contents. Analysis of experimental composite samples using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicates the interaction between MoS₂ and oxygen-containing groups of polyamide while maintaining its overall chemical composition. According to the TG-DSC curves, modification of polyamide leads to an increase in the melting temperature by 2 °C, while mechanical activation ensures stronger interaction between the matrix and the filler. Compared to pure PA6, the tensile strength of composites increases by 10–20% for mechanoactivated materials and by 5–10% for materials obtained by conventional methods. The mechanical activation effect is observed even at minimal amounts (0.25 and 0.5%) of MoS₂ in composites. The toughness of all composites, regardless of the mixing method, increases by 5–7% compared to pure polyamide. All composites show a 10–20% reduction in the coefficient of friction on steel. Simultaneously, the water absorption of composites becomes 5–20% higher than that of the original material, which indicates a change in structure and an increase in porosity. The obtained composite materials are planned to be used for manufacturing platforms for the movement of virtual reality (VR) operators. Full article

To address the bottleneck of insufficient broadband sound insulation performance of traditional sound insulation materials at the subwavelength scale, this paper designs a composite subwavelength sound insulation unit (size: 20 mm × 20 mm × 5 mm) composed of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene, and PZT-5H piezoelectric ceramics, and porous aluminum alloy. Based on the electromagnetic-structural-acoustic multi-physics field coupling theory, the regulation laws of external electric field intensity and effect of MXene layer number on sound insulation performance are systematically investigated via numerical simulation, and the sound insulation enhancement mechanism dominated by dielectric tunability is clarified. The results show that the dielectric constant of MXene increases monotonically with the external electric field intensity, and the optimal regulation sensitivity is achieved when the layer number N = 3; when the electric field intensity increases from 0 V to 500 V, the equivalent density of the system increases from 1.25 g/cm³ to 1.87 g/cm³, the acoustic impedance increases from 3.42 × 10⁶ Pa·s/m³ to 5.13 × 10⁶ Pa·s/m³, the average transmission loss TL in the 200–600 Hz frequency band is increased by 2 dB compared with the state without electric field, and the sound pressure on the transmission side is reduced by 3.56% at 400 Hz; the vibration displacement of PZT decreases from 0.0055 mm to nearly 0 mm with the increase in electric field, and the electric field energy density increases from 0 J/m³ to 7.47056 × 10³ J/m³, verifying the core mechanism of converting electromagnetic energy into structural damping through dielectric loss. This study supplements parameter sensitivity analysis and literature benchmark comparison to compensate for the lack of experimental data, confirming the stability and rationality of the simulation results. The established cross-field coupling framework of “dielectric regulation–density optimization–impedance matching–sound insulation enhancement” fills the theoretical gap of the coupling mechanism of MXene in the field of subwavelength sound insulation, and provides new theoretical and technical pathways for the design of broadband active sound insulation materials in the 200–1000 Hz frequency range. Full article

The proliferation of power converters in modern energy production systems has led to increased harmonic content due to the commutation of active switching devices. This increase in harmonics contributes to lower system efficiency, reduced power factor, and consequently, a higher reactive power requirement. To address these issues, this paper presents both simulation and experimental results of various control strategies implemented on Parallel Voltage Source Inverters (PVSI) for harmonic mitigation. The proposed control strategies are categorized into direct and indirect control methods. The direct control techniques implemented include the instantaneous power method (PQ), the synchronous algorithm (DQ), the maximum principle method (MAX), the algorithm based on synchronization of current with the voltage positive-sequence component (SEC-POZ), and two methods employing the separating polluting components approach using a band-stop filter and a low-pass filter. The main innovation in these active power filter (APF) control strategies, compared to traditional or existing technologies, is the real-time digital implementation on high-speed platforms, specifically FPGAs. Unlike slower microcontroller-based systems with limited processing capabilities, FPGA-based implementations allow parallel processing and high-speed computation, enabling the execution of complex control algorithms with minimal latency. Additionally, the enhanced reference current generation achieved through the seven applied methods provides precise harmonic compensation under highly distorted and nonlinear load conditions. Another key advancement is the integration with Smart Grid functionalities, allowing IoT connectivity and remote diagnostics, which enhances system monitoring and operational flexibility. Following validation on an experimental test bench, these algorithms were implemented and tested on industrial APF prototypes powered by a standardized three-phase network supply. All control strategies demonstrated an effective reduction in total harmonic distortion (THD) and improvement in power factor. Experimental findings were used to provide recommendations for choosing the most effective control solution, focusing on minimizing THD and enhancing system performance. Full article

The aim of this study was to experimentally assess the effect of increased rolling resistance, generated by the Anti-Rollback System, on the muscular load of a manual wheelchair user during downhill movement. Three descent conditions were compared: without the module (NAR), with a flexible roller (EAR), and with a rigid roller (SAR). The experiment was conducted on a 6.3 m ramp inclined at 5°, involving eight adult male participants. Muscle effort was evaluated using three indicators: normalized cumulative muscle load per second (CML/s), normalized muscle activity (EMG_norm), and the peak-to-mean ratio of the EMG signal (PMR). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between configurations (p < 0.05). Use of the module significantly reduced muscular load compared with the reference condition: CML/s decreased by 29.41% in both EAR and SAR, while EMG_norm was reduced by 44.44% in EAR and 50.00% in SAR. PMR reached its lowest value in EAR (4.78), suggesting smoother muscle activation and lower local peak tension. The results indicate that the resistive torque generated by the frictional coupling between the wheelchair tire and the anti-rollback roller, although disadvantageous during propulsion, contributes to improved control and stability during downhill descent, highlighting the system’s dual functional potential. Full article

This paper presents a new study and analysis of the thermo-hygroscopic behavior of Arthrospira platensis using dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) system. Thermo-hygroscopic characterization is essential for optimizing the drying process and enhancing storage conditions. Therefore, the objective of this work was to investigate the thermo-hygroscopic properties of Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis using a dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) system. This thermo-hygroscopic analysis focused on three fundamental parameters, namely: the desorption isotherms, the net isosteric heat of water desorption, and the moisture diffusivity. Desorption isotherms were measured at five different temperatures (25 °C, 40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C and 80 °C) over a relative humidity range of 10–80%. The desorption isotherm data were fitted to five semi-empirical models: GAB, Oswin, Smith, Henderson, and Peleg. The results indicated that the GAB model provided the best fit for the experimental data. The net isosteric heat of desorption was determined using the Clausius–Clapeyron relation. It decreased from 21.3 to 4.29 KJ/mol as the equilibrium moisture content increased from 0.02 to 0.1 Kg/Kg (dry basis). Additionally, the moisture diffusivity of Arthrospira platensis was estimated based on Fick’s second law of diffusion and the desorption kinetics obtained from the DVS equipment. This parameter varied between 1.04 10⁻⁸ m²/s and 1.46 10⁻⁷ m²/s for average moisture contents ranging from 0.003 Kg/Kg to 0.191 Kg/Kg (dry basis). Furthermore, the activation energy for desorption was estimated to be approximately 33.7 KJ/mol. Full article

Polypropylene (PP) is widely used and currently very little recycled. A promising method for recycling the PP present in plastic waste involves its selective dissolution and subsequent separation from undissolved compounds. We address here the fundamentals of PP dissolution. Specifically, we present a model that describes the different phenomena involved in the dissolution of semicrystalline PP and validate the model with the experimental results on the decrystallization and dissolution kinetics of PP pellets. The model provides detailed time-resolved and position-resolved information on composition (i.e., crystalline PP, amorphous PP, and solvent) and solvent diffusivity (which depends on composition) across the dissolving polymer particle, in different solvents and temperatures. Such information is unavailable experimentally or difficult to obtain. The key fitted parameters that capture decrystallization and polymer chain disentanglement decrease with increasing temperature following an Arrhenius relationship, with activation energies higher than that for crystallization and comparable to that for melt viscosity. Both decrystallization and dissolution times increase with particle size. For smaller particles, decrystallization and dissolution occur nearly simultaneously, while for larger particles, their interior remains solvent-poor and crystalline for longer times. This work offers insights into the interplay of decrystallization and polymer chain disentanglement during the time-course of PP dissolution. Further, this work facilitates the design and optimization of a dissolution–precipitation recycling process that can unlock value from the million tons of PP annually that is currently being landfilled or incinerated following its use. Full article

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA), a common degenerative joint disease, affects a large patient population and poses significant challenges in early diagnosis and rehabilitation. Achieving precise assessment of knee function and efficient home-based intelligent rehabilitation is crucial for alleviating pain, slowing disease progression, and improving patients’ quality of life. This study proposes a smart wearable knee function assessment based on multimodal physiological signals and a rehabilitation system. The system integrates surface electromyography (sEMG), pressure sensors, and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to synchronously capture gait, posture, and muscle activity. It quantifies knee function by extracting gait and EMG features. Additionally, a wearable massage device driven by airbags was designed and implemented to simulate the traditional Chinese medicine “seated knee-adjustment method” and deliver precise intelligent rehabilitation interventions. Experimental results validated the system’s accuracy in functional assessment and reliability in rehabilitation assistance. The average relative error in gait feature extraction was below 8%, while the massage head displacement error remained within clinically acceptable ranges. By integrating multimodal sensing technology with intelligent rehabilitation devices, this system offers KOA patients a convenient, efficient, and sustainable home-based rehabilitation solution with strong clinical application potential and promotional value. Full article

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression that influence cancer initiation, progression, and therapeutic response. While most studies have focused on endogenous miRNAs, emerging evidence has highlighted the role of plant-derived miRNAs as exogenous dietary regulators capable of cross-kingdom gene modulation. This review summarises current knowledge regarding plant-derived miRNAs and their ability to regulate human cancer-related genes. Experimental findings indicate that plant miRNAs can withstand gastrointestinal digestion, enter the circulation, and regulate the expression of oncogenes, tumour suppressors, long noncoding RNAs, and immune checkpoint molecules via canonical RNA-induced silencing mechanisms. Specific examples include miR-156a, miR-159a-3p, miR-166a, miR-167e-5p, miR-171, miR-395e, miR-2911, miR-4995 and miR-5754, which exhibit anticancer activities across various cancer types and modulate key signalling pathways in mammalian cells, highlighting their potential as cross-kingdom regulators with therapeutic relevance. In addition to these characterised miRNAs, certain plant groups, which are rich in bioactive compounds, remain unexplored as sources of functional miRNAs, representing a promising avenue for future research. Collectively, these studies underscore the ability of plant-derived miRNAs to modulate mammalian gene expression and suggest their potential as diet-based or synthetic therapeutic agents. Further investigations into their bioavailability, target specificity, and functional relevance could inform innovative strategies for cancer prevention, integrating nutritional, molecular biological, and therapeutic approaches. Full article