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This study aims to investigate the anaerobic digestion (AD) performance of Broussonetia papyrifera, a wide distributed nitrogen-rich and lignocellulosic-like plant, for methane production. The fermentation was conducted with the volatile solid (VS) concentration at 0.5%, 1.0%,1.5%,2.0% and 4.0% under 37°C and 55°C for 30 days, respectively. Results suggested that the feedstock concentration at 2.0% and fermentation temperature at 55°C was optimal for the AD treatment of Broussonetia papyrifera. A maximal specific methane yield was achieved at 277.72 ± 15 mL/g VS, which was 94.71% higher than that for the maximum specific methane under the thermophile condition, likely because that the C/N was more suitable compared with other lignocellulosic biomass. A kinetic study suggested that the modified Gompertz equation was reliable (determination coefficients R2 greater than 0.97) to describe the kinetic behavior of anaerobic digestion of Broussonetia papyrifera. In general, Broussonetia papyrifera was proved to be a suitabe feedstock for anaerobic digestion for methane production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Self-developed vertical continuous push-flow dry anaerobic digestion reactor. • At an OLR of 3 g VS L-1 d-1, the operational performance of the system at this stage was the best in the whole set of experiments. • Methanoculleus and Methanobacterium play a key role in maintaining methanogenesis. • Functional genes were identified to reconstruct the methane metabolic pathway. In this study, the vertical continuous push-flow dry anaerobic digestion (AD) reactor was developed independently. Typical agricultural organic waste straw and cow dung were used as raw materials in this paper to carry out long-term continuous mixed dry AD experiments on a controlled laboratory scale. The experimental results showed that the system was in low-stress operation at an organic load rate (OLR) of 3 g VS L-1 d-1, the VS methane production rate was located at 225 ∼ 272 mL CH 4 g VS-1, and the volumetric methane production rate was located at 0.95 ± 0.08 L (L·d)-1, and the combination of the volumetric methane production rate, VS methane production rate, methane content of the gas, and the VS removal rate showed that the system's operational performance in this stage was in the best condition in the whole set of experiments. When the OLR reached 25 g VS L-1 d-1, the content of VFAs all began to climb rapidly above 8000 mg/L, with the content of acetic acid increasing most significantly due to the fact that the activity of acetic acid-type methanogenic bacteria was the first to be inhibited. Eventually, because of the kinetic differences between the hydrolytic acidifying bacteria and the methanogenic archaea, the final acidification destabilisation of the anaerobic digestion reactor occurred and the system was irreversibly destabilised. The system performance at this stage was in the best condition in the whole set of experiments. The study of microbial community succession and metabolic mechanisms showed that Methanoculleus and Methanobacterium play a key role in sustaining methane production, and the increased abundance and dominance of hydrogen methanogens implies that methane is produced via the hydrogen methanogenic pathway under high organic loading conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lightweight and flexible energy storage devices are urgently needed to persistently power wearable devices, and lithium-sulfur batteries are promising technologies due to their low mass densities and high theoretical capacities. Here we report a flexible and high-energy lithium-sulfur full battery device with only 100% oversized lithium, enabled by rationally designed copper-coated and nickel-coated carbon fabrics as excellent hosts for lithium and sulfur, respectively. These metallic carbon fabrics endow mechanical flexibility, reduce local current density of the electrodes, and, more importantly, significantly stabilize the electrode materials to reach remarkable Coulombic efficiency of >99.89% for a lithium anode and >99.82% for a sulfur cathode over 400 half-cell charge-discharge cycles. Consequently, the assembled lithium-sulfur full battery provides high areal capacity (3 mA h cm−2), high cell energy density (288 W h kg−1 and 360 W h L−1), excellent cycling stability (260 cycles), and remarkable bending stability at a small radius of curvature (<1 mm). Lightweight and flexible energy storage devices are needed to persistently power wearable devices. Here the authors employ metallized carbon fabrics as hosts for sulfur and lithium to achieve flexibility, electrochemical stability and high energy density in a lithium-sulfur battery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic digestion reactors (MR and TR) for the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) were tested to reveal the differential microbial responses to increasing organic loading rate (OLR). MR exhibited faster adaptation and better performance at an OLR range of 1.0–2.5 g VS·L−1·d−1, with average profiles of a biogas yield of 0.38 L/gVSadded*d at 0.5 g/L*d OLR and 0.69 L/gVSadded*d at 2.5 g/L*d OLR, whereas TR had a biogas yield of 0.07 L/gVSadded*d at 0.5 g/L*d OLR and 0.44 L/gVSadded*d at 2.5 g/L*d OLR. The pyrosequencing results of amplicons revealed the microbial mechanisms of OFMSW anaerobic digestion. Larger shifts in the bacteria composition were observed in the TR with OLR elevation. For methanogens in both reactors, Methanothrix dominated in the MR while Methanosarcina was favored in the TR. Moreover, analysis of the mode and efficiency of metabolism between the MR and TR demonstrated different performances with more efficiency related to the limiting hydrolytic acid step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A static ultra-high pressure pretreatment method for AD has been developed. • Electron transfer capacity of system was analyzed by electrochemical test. • A better digestion performance obtained at CIP samples of Hybrid Pennisetum. • Higher accessibility between material and inoculum through CIP was proved by mapping. Ultra-high pressing pretreatment has been employed to effectively improve methane production from Hybrid Pennisetum. In this study, Hybrid Pennisetum was pretreated by cold isostatic pressing (CIP) to improve methane production. The pretreatment enhanced the accessibility between the substrate and inoculum. The decomposition of the compact biomass structure was analyzed through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FT-IR) and X-ray Diffractometer (XRD). Moreover, the electron transfer capability in the system was evaluated by electrochemical analysis. The systematic experiment yielded the highest methane production at a pressure of 400Mpa, reaching 227.67 mL/g VS. The pretreatment changed the reducing sugar content (RS), pH, and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) in the AD system, which in turn increased the cumulative methane production. This study provides a promising platform for the development of an efficient methanogenic pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiNb2O7 with Wadsley–Roth phase delivers double theoretical specific capacity and similar working potential in comparison to spinel Li4Ti5O12, the commercial high‐rate anode material, and thus can enable much higher energy density of lithium‐ion batteries. However, the inter‐particle resistance within the high‐mass‐loading TiNb2O7 electrode would impede the capacity release for practical application, especially under fast‐charging conditions. Herein, 10–20 μm‐size carbon‐coated TiNb2O7 secondary particle (SP‐TiNb2O7) consisting of initial micro‐scale TiNb2O7 particles (MP‐TiNb2O7) was fabricated. The high crystallinity of active material could enable fast‐charge diffusion and electrochemical reaction rate within particles, and the small number of stacking layers of SP‐TiNb2O7 could reduce the large inter‐particle resistance that regular particle electrode often possess and achieve high compaction density of electrodes with high mass loading. The investigation on materials structure and electrochemical reaction kinetics verified the advances of the as‐fabricated SP‐TiNb2O7 in achieving superior electrochemical performance. The SP‐TiNb2O7 exhibited high reversible capacity of 292.7 mAh g−1 in the potential range of 1–3 V (Li+/Li) at 0.1 C, delivering high‐capacity release of 94.3 %, and high capacity retention of 86 % at 0.5 C for 250 cycles in half cell configuration. Particularly, the advances of such an anode were verified in practical 5 Ah‐level laminated full pouch cell. The as‐assembled LiFePO4||TiNb2O7 full cell exhibited a high capacity of 5.08 Ah at high charging rate of 6 C (77.9 % of that at 0.2 C of 6.52 Ah), as well as an ultralow capacity decay rate of 0.0352 % for 250 cycles at 1 C, suggesting the great potential for practical fast‐charging lithium‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to identify potential independent risk factors for residual low back pain (LBP) in patients with thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) following percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) treatment. Additionally, we aim to develop a nomogram that can accurately predict the occurrence of residual LBP. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of the medical records of thoracolumbar OVCFs patients who underwent PKP treatment at our hospital between July 2021 and December 2022. Residual LBP was defined as the presence of moderate or greater pain (VAS score ≥ 4) in the low back one day after surgery, and patients were divided into two groups: the LBP group and the non-LBP group. These patients were then randomly allocated to either a training or a validation set in the ratio of 7:3. To identify potential risk factors for residual LBP, we employed lasso regression for multivariate analysis, and from this, we constructed a nomogram. Subsequently, the predictive accuracy and practical clinical application of the nomogram were evaluated through a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, a calibration curve, and a decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: Our predictive model revealed that five variables—posterior fascial oedema, intravertebral vacuum cleft, time from fracture to surgery, sarcopenia, and interspinous ligament degeneration—were correlated with the presence of residual LBP. In the training set, the area under the ROC was 0.844 (95% CI 0.772–0.917), and in the validation set, it was 0.842 (95% CI 0.744–0.940), indicating that the model demonstrated strong discriminative performance. Furthermore, the predictions closely matched actual observations in both the training and validation sets. The decision curve analysis (DCA) curve suggested that the model provides a substantial net clinical benefit. Conclusions: We have created a novel numerical model capable of accurately predicting the potential risk factors associated with the occurrence of residual LBP following PKP in thoracolumbar OVCFs patients. This model serves as a valuable tool for guiding specific clinical decisions for patients with OVCFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pursuit of high energy density Li‐based rechargeable batteries has intrigued numerous research interest on Li metal anode. However, several significant challenges, including severe parasitic reactions and growth of Li dendrites, lead to fast electrode failure and impede its practical implantation. Herein, it is revealed that the dynamic concentration of alloying element in Li solid solution can significantly improve the cycling stability. It is demonstrated that the alloying element of Li solid solution continuously evolved in the reaction layer on cycling. Alloying element got enriched on anode surface after Li stripping, and re‐dispersed into the deposited Li during Li plating processes. The alloying element‐rich surface can reduce the Li nucleation barrier and promote the uniform Li plating behavior. Ultrathin Li solid solution foils are fabricated, and the dynamic alloying element concentration mechanism is further verified, and the cycling lifespan of pure Li is doubled. Consequently, a 1.4 Ah laminated pouch cell with ultrathin Li solid solution anode (30 µm) exhibits high energy density of 836 Wh L−1 and stable cycling performance under the harsh conditions with low negative/positive capacity (N/P) ratio of 2 and electrolyte/capacity (E/C) ratio of 2.6 g Ah−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lithium metal anode (LMA) is a promising technology to promote the energy density of secondary batteries. However, the coupled growth of surface corrosion and deposited lithium with high reactivity causes capacity fading and safety hazards, especially at high temperatures. Great efforts have been focused on preventing the LMA from direct contact with electrolytes to extend its lifespan, but few pay attention to its stability at high temperatures, which is crucial to battery safety. Herein, a 3D Li22Sn5‐based interpenetrated skeleton is introduced into the bulk of LMA with mechanical kneading, which enables a LMA with fast and stable cycles at high temperatures and improved safety under thermal abuse. The Li22Sn5 skeleton acts as a solid electrolyte inside the bulk, allowing rapid Li+ ion transport and homogenous lithium stripping/plating into the porous bulk through Li/Li22Sn5 interface. The encapsulating framework expands the electrochemically active area and limits its exposure to the electrolyte, enabling a LMA with steady cyclability even at 60 °C. Trapping lithium inside the thermally stable skeleton postpones the catastrophic exothermal reactions between lithium and electrolytes. The strategy for constructing a 3D encapsulating lithiophilic framework is promising for creating safe and stable lithium metal batteries working under harsh circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Biomass-based carbon materials have been considered as promising catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction due to their abundant heteroatom, renewability, and low cost. However, their practical electrocatalytic applications face a series of challenges, including insufficient pore structure, active site density, and their uneven distribution. Herein, we report an ingenious strategy to fabricate the biomass-derived carbon materials with hierarchical structures and high nitrogen doping. More specifically, microbial fermentation was used to achieve efficient and homogeneous nitrogen introduction by degrading the compact structure of lignocellulosic biomass. In addition, the precise regulation of the pore structure for carbon material was achieved by further introduction of appropriate oxygen during the pyrolysis process. The carbon catalyst prepared by the cascading treatment exhibited better performance. Notably, the C 5 exhibited the highest surface area (858.17 m2g−1) and abundant nitrogen-containing active sites, and high graphitization degree, thus, the C 5 demonstrates an outstanding oxygen reduction reaction catalytic performance in a wide pH range (e.g., E onset : 0.85 V vs. RHE in neutral pH) and microbial fuel cells performance (maximum power density of 741.6 mWm−2). This study provides new ideas for the activity regulation of carbon electrocatalysts derived from biomass and will open the door to its large-scale application. • Cascading pre-treatment was effective to fabricate the carbon catalysts. • Biological treatment was beneficial for the introduction of nitrogen atoms. • The oxygen etching can adjust the carbon structure and local graphitization degree. • 5% (vol%) oxygen content showed the best performance for oxygen reduction reaction. • The optimized catalyst showed good performance in a universal pH range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) have attracted widespread concern as the next‐generation energy storage devices with high energy density. At the surface of lithium metal anodes (LMAs) toward electrolytes, lithium plating always competes with interfacial reactions. This makes interfacial reactions light shadow right behind lithium plating, leading to performance degradation. Herein, lithium plating is spatially decoupled from interfacial reactions by constructing a 3D solid electrolyte interphase framework (3D‐SEIF) inside LMAs. Spontaneous while mild chemical reactions between lithium metal and lithium bisfluorosulfonimide/lithium nitrate form the robust 3D‐SEIF, mainly consisting of LiF, Li3N, and LiNxOy. The built‐in 3D‐SEIF avoids electrolyte contact but enables the diffusion and reduction of Li+ ions in the bulk phase, thus isolating the plating sites and electrolyte contact interface. The 3D‐SEIF facilitates large granular plating and the generation of thin, inorganic‐rich SEI. When assembled with high‐loading LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cathode (3 mAh cm−2), the cells present capacity retention of 92.0% after 130 cycles with barren electrolyte (≈30 µL) at 0.5 C. The conception of 3D inner interphase allows breaking the coupling of interfacial reactions with electrochemical reactions, which is taken for granted in electrochemical consortium. It also desires to inspire new thoughts to develop scalable solutions for the early industrialization of LMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate whether bioaugmentation could improve the digestion performance of high C/N ratio feedstock without co-digestion with nitrogen-rich substrate, different forms of enriched methanogenic culture were introduced to the continuous feed digesters. The performance efficiency of bioaugmentation on digestion improvement was compared. The effect of bioaugmentation on microbial community composition was revealed as well. Results demonstrated that routine bioaugmentation with liquid culture (containing the microbes and the medium remains) showed the best performance, with the organic loading rate (OLR), methane percentage, volumetric methane production (VMP) and volatile solid methane production (VSMP) higher at 1.0 g L −1  d −1 , 24%, 0.22 L L −1  d −1 and 0.23 L g −1  VS d −1 respectively, compared to the non-bioaugmentation control. Whole genome pyrosequencing analysis suggested that consecutive microbial consortium addition could reconstruct the methanogens community by increasing the populations of acetoclastic methanogens Methanothrix , which could accelerate the degradation of acetate and methane production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Bioaugmentation remarkably increased the methane yield of psychrophilic anaerobic digestion by 3.4–4.8-fold. • Bioaugmentation alleviated the accumulation of VFAs in psychrophilic anaerobic digestion. • Bioaugmentation shortened the period of psychrophilic anaerobic digestion. • Bioaugmentation enhanced the relative abundance of key microorganisms (Methanosarcina) in the digester. Low methane yield and long digestion period are common issues encountered in psychrophilic anaerobic digestion (AD). To address these challenges, this study successfully acclimatized a cold-tolerant methanogenic consortium and applied it as bioaugmentation seed to enhance the psychrophilic AD. Various doses (4%, 8%, 12%, 14%, and 16%) of the bioaugmentation seed were introduced to boost the batch psychrophilic AD of cattle manure and corn straw. Results demonstrated that bioaugmentation increased the methane yield by 3.4–4.8-fold, shortened T 80 time by 28–34 d, and reduced VFAs contents by 21.61%-49.23%. The optimal dose for bioaugmentation on psychrophilic AD was 12%, increasing methane yield from 15.40 mL g-1VS to 73.01 mL g-1VS. Microbial community analysis revealed that increase in relative abundance of propionate-oxidizing bacteria and the dominant methanogens (Methanosarcina , Methanothrix) were the key to accelerating the rate-limiting step, i.e., conversion of accumulated propionate and acetate to methane. These findings suggest that bioaugmentation with cold-tolerant methanogenic consortium is a potential approach to boost the psychrophilic AD process, and provide theoretical guidance for commercial biogas plants in cold regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the effect of bioaugmentation with enriched methanogenic propionate degrading microbial consortia on propionate fermentation under ammonia stress from total ammonia nitrogen concentration (TAN) of 3.0 g N L −1 . Results demonstrated that bioaugmentation could prevent unstable digestion against further deterioration. After 45 days of 1 dosage (0.3 g dry cell weight L −1 d −1 , DCW L −1 d −1 ) of bioaugmentation, the average volumetric methane production (VMP), methane recovery rate and propionic acid (HPr) degradation rate was enhanced by 70 mL L −1 d −1 , 21% and 51%, respectively. In contrast, the non-bioaugmentation reactor almost failed. Routine addition of a double dosage (0.6 g DCW L −1 d −1 ) of bioaugmentation culture was able to effectively recover the failing digester. The results of FISH suggested that the populations of Methanosaetaceae increased significantly, which could be a main contributor for the positive effect on methane production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uneven electrochemical reactions of lithium (Li) metal anode is one of the main reasons that hinder its application in rechargeable high energy density batteries. Great progress has been achieved in homogenizing electrochemical reactions of Li metal anode in lab‐scale coin cells, however, it cannot be directly applied to pouch cells, where undesirable defects or side reactions are significantly aggravated. With carbonate electrolyte, multi‐layered negative and positive electrodes (8 × 11 cm), 1.2 Ah sulfurized polyacrylonitrile (SPAN)||Li pouch cell lost all its capacity after 40 cycles under a current of 600 mA, although its counterpart with coin cell configuration showed much higher capacity retention of 94% under the same test condition. Severe corrosion with uneven, porous, dendritic Li deposits is observed for pristine Li electrode in a pouch cell, especially in the near‐tap and the central regions with close connection with the current collector due to the locally amplified current densities. In contrast, Li/Li–Sn alloy composite electrode displays uniform and dense Li plating behavior over the entire test area with significantly suppressed parasitic reactions and gas evolution. As such, a 1.2 Ah SPAN||Li/Li–Sn cell displays much higher capacity retention than SPAN||Li cell (87% for 100 cycles vs. 0 for 40 cycles). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promoting efficiency of liquid–liquid extraction at a high pH is a main challenge for the recovery of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) from organic wastes. In this study, the extraction efficiency of VFAs from artificial solution and acidification fermentation broth of kitchen wastes using ionic liquids (ILs) was assessed at high pH. The effect of ILs addition ratio in diluent, volumetric solvent to feed ratio (S/F) on extraction efficiency were investigated. The solvent consists of [P666,14][Cl] (IL101) and dodecane was found to be the promising solvent for VFA extraction at pH 6.0, especially for butyric acid. The IL-101 ratio in dodecane and S/F was significant factors for the liquid–liquid extraction of VFAs. In general, a higher IL-101 ratio and S/F can promote the extraction efficiency of single VFAs. As a result, the maximum extraction rate of acetic acid (38.4–49.9%) and butyric acid (66.0–92.1%) from different VFA concentration solutions was observed at 10% IL-101 in dodecane and S/F = 2/1. The solvent was also effective in different types of real fermentation broth of kitchen wastes. The maximum extraction rate and selectivity of butyric acid was 60.2%/70.5% in butyric acid type broth and 74.6%/62.7% in mixture acid type broth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four bio-additives were utilized to enhance the ensiling of sweet sorghum (SS). • Ensiling altered the organic components, microbial community and microstructure. • Biological additives improved the biodegradability and enzymatic hydrolysis yield of SS. • Liquid digestate increased methane production by 32.84% with a maximum net income of 96.07 USD/ton. • Ensiling with liquid digestate offers a pretreatment and preservation methnod for SS. This study proposes a novel strategy to integrate ensiling preservation with pretreatment of sweet sorghum (SS) biomass. Bio-additives, including cellulase, xylanase, liquid anaerobic digestate (LD), and rumen fluid (RF) were applied in ensiling process to improve the silage quality, sugar production by enzymatic hydrolysis, and anaerobic biomethane production of SS. Compared with others additives, LD could alter microbial community compositions and reduce the crystallinity of SS, thus improving ensiling pretreatment performance and achieving the highest reducing sugar yield of 84.73%. The methane production of LD silages was increased by 32.84% compared with the un-ensiled SS, indicating that ensiling pretreatment with LD could be an effective strategy to achieve the trans -seasonal preservation and improving the methane production of SS. Furthermore, taking techno-economic factors into account (energy net income of 96.07 USD/ton), LD additive was recommended for the bioaugmented ensiling pretreatment and downstream methane production of SS, which also contribute to recirculate the liquid digestate from biogas plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Na/Na 3 P composite was fabricated by spontaneous reaction between red P and Na. • Na/Na 3 P composite provided functional components for the inorganic-rich SEI. • Na 3 P in the SEI enabled the rapid diffusion of Na ions. • The inorganic-rich SEI improved the electrochemical Na plating/stripping behavior. • Na/Na 3 P composite achieved stable performance over 400 cycles for full cell. The practical application of sodium (Na) metal anode in rechargeable batteries is impeded by inferior electrochemical properties and safety hazards arising from uneven Na plating/stripping behaviors. The Na-ion diffusion within the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays a pivotal role in influencing these behaviors and the electrochemical performance of the Na metal anode. In this study, we leveraged the spontaneous reaction between red phosphorus (P) and metallic Na to fabricate a Na/Na 3 P (NNP) composite foil using a straightforward folding and mechanical rolling method at room temperature. The in-situ formed Na 3 P phase fosters the formation of an inorganic-rich SEI layer with high ionic conductivity, effectively enhancing the Na-ion diffusion kinetics and curbing the formation of Na dendrites. Moreover, the Na 3 P present in the NNP composite can continually replenish the functional component and promptly repair the fracture of the SEI layer, thereby ensuring the stability of its structure and properties. Consequently, the NNP composite electrode significantly extends the Na plating/stripping cyclic lifespan compared to a bare Na anode. As a demonstration, the Na 3 V 2 (PO 4) 3 ||NNP full cell exhibits stable performance over 400 cycles with 96.7 % capacity retention at 5 C. This work paves the way for designing stable SEI layers with fast ion diffusion capability for alkali metal anodes, and the findings are anticipated to propel the development of alkali metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To propose a new standardized technique for evaluating lumbar stability in degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis using lumbar lateral flexion-extension radiographs with brackets and magnetic resonance facet fluid. A retrospective analysis of 57 patients diagnosed with lumbar (L4-5) spondylolisthesis was performed. We analyzed lateral flexion-extension radiographs obtained with a bracket (LFEB) and without a bracket (LFE). Sagittal translation, segmental angulation, posterior opening, lumbar instability, and changes in lumbar lordosis were compared using functional radiographs. The mean width and maximum width of the facet fluid, mean facet joint length, and facet fluid index (FFI) of the 2 groups were compared using sagittal translation. The average value of sagittal translation was 1.68 ± 0.96 mm in LFE and 3.07 ± 1.29 mm in LFEB, and the difference was significant (P < 0.05). Segmental angulation, posterior opening, and changes in lumbar lordosis were significantly greater in LFEB than in LFE. The instability detection rate was 14.0% in LFE and 35.1% in LFEB. The FFI, maximum width, and mean width were significantly increased in the unstable lumbar spondylolisthesis group compared with the stable group in LFEB. The FFI and maximum width of the facet fluid were significantly increased in the unstable lumbar spondylolisthesis group compared with the stable group in LFE. Lumbar lateral flexion-extension radiographs with brackets can standardize the operation process and provide sufficient hyperflexion and hyperextension images. The width of the facet fluid and FFI are significant factors in the evaluation of lumbar stability in patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon (Si)-based anode is promising for the next-generation high-energy lithium-ion batteries due to the high capacity. However, it suffers parasitic side reactions between electrode and electrolyte in the initial cycle, which consumes abundant active lithium and makes it one of the limiting factors for the implementation of Si-based anodes. It is of vital importance to suppress the side reactions at the electrode interphase and improve the electrochemical/chemical stability. Here, we designed an ultrathin double-shell interphase structure (∼15 nm), consisting of an inner VO2 nanoshell and an outer C nanoshell. The inner VO2 nanolayer avoided the direct contact between active Si and electrolyte, and, thus, hindered the side reactions between them. The carbon nanolayer stabilized the VO2 layer mechanically and improved the electronic conductivity of the anode materials. Thus, a thin solid electrolyte interphase was formed on the as-designed Si@VO2@C surface, and high initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) was realized. Notably, the Si@VO2@C electrode exhibited a high reversible capacity of 2300 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and high ICE of 90.2%, which was about 18% higher than that of a pristine Si electrode. Also, the electrode displayed stable electrochemical cycling with high capacity retention of 84.8% for 100 cycles at 0.4 C. With 15 wt. % addition into the graphite, the hybrid electrode Si@VO2@C/graphite exhibited a high reversible charge capacity of 596 mAh g−1 and satisfactory cycling performance with high capacity retention of 83.8% at 100 mA g−1 under a high area capacity of 3.46 mAh cm−2, showing promise for the practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a green technology that can be used to simultaneously degrade organics and generate energy. In this work, a double-chamber microbial fuel cell (DCMFC) was used to treat molasses wastewater with different concentrations, in batch tests. The results demonstrated that when the COD of the influent wastewater was low (3630 mg/L), the MFC system ran stably for 12 h, the maximum power density reached 3.28 W/m3, the internal resistance was 94 Ω, and a total COD removal efficiency of 88.5% was obtained at the end of the cycle. However, as the influent increased to 9060 mg/L, the performance of the MFC significantly declined due to the accumulation of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and low pH. Interestingly, 10 days later the MFC system began to recover: output voltage increased from 209 to 535 mV, VFA declined from 2428.25 to 0 mg/L, and pH increased from 4.83 to 6.98. The microbial diversity of the biofilm on the anode was also investigated using high-throughput sequencing technology in order to clarify the effect of microbials on the treatment efficiency. The dominant microbial genera, such as Azospirillum , Sulfuricurvum, Syntrophomonas and Curvibacter, are highly related to the electron transfer and VFA degradation. In addition, Geobacter found on the carbon felt was responsible for electricity generation. These results demonstrate that MFCs could be an efficient way to treat molasses wastewater, because of its great self-recovery capability. [Display omitted] • Microbial fuel cells were used to treat the wastewater with different concentrations. • The chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency is more than 85%. • The relationship between the volatile fatty acids, pH, and power out was discussed. • The microbial diversity of the biofilm will be strengthened. • This work offers an efficient way to treat the wastewater by self-recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Biogas production was enhanced by co-digestion of rice straw with other materials. [•] The optimal ratio of kitchen waste, pig manure and rice straw is 0.4:1.6:1. [•] The maximum biogas yield of 674.4L/kgVS was obtained. [•] VFA inhibition occurred when kitchen waste content was more than 26%. [•] The dominant VFA were propionate and acetate in successful reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-digestion has been considered a promising method to improve methane yield. The effect of the proportion of dominant substrate on the performance and microbial community of anaerobic digestion of Pennisetum hybrid (PH) and livestock waste (LW) was investigated. An obvious synergistic effect was obtained with an increase of 15.20%–17.45% in specific methane yield compared to the predicted value. Meanwhile, the dominant substrate influenced the relational model between methane yield enhancement rate and mixture ratio. For the LW-dominant systems, a parabolic model between enhancement rate and mixture ratio was observed with a highest value of 392.16 mL/g VS achieved at a PH:LW ratio of 2:8. While a linear pattern appeared for PH-dominant systems with the highest methane yield of 307.59 mL/g VS. Co-digestion selectively enriched the relative abundance of Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 , Terrisporobacter , Syntrophomonas , Methanosarcina and Methanobacterium , which boosted the performance of hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis and methanogenesis processes. [Display omitted] • Co-digestion of Pennisetum hybrid and livestock waste boosts the AD performance. • Dominant substrate had a decisive effect on the change trend of methane enhancement. • An increase of 3.29%–213.87% in specific methane yield obtained for co-digestion. • Co-digestion selectively enriched the lignocellulose-degrading microorganisms. • Acetoclastic methanogenesis pathway dominated, followed by hydrogenotrophic-type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the most widespread musculoskeletal diseases worldwide, intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) remains an intractable clinical problem. Currently, oxidative stress has been widely considered as a significant risk factor in the IVDD pathological changes, and targeting oxidative stress injury to improve the harsh microenvironment may provide a novel and promising strategy for disc repair. It is evident that spermidine (SPD) has the ability to attenuate oxidative stress across several disease models. However, limited research exists regarding its impact on oxidative stress within the intervertebral disc. Moreover, enhancing the local utilization rate of SPD holds great significance in IVDD management. This study aimed to develop an intelligent biodegradable mesoporous polydopamine (PDA) nanoplatform for sustained release of SPD. The obtained PDA nanoparticles with spherical morphology and mesoporous structure released loaded-therapeutic molecules under low pH and H 2 O 2. Combined treatment with SPD loaded into PDA nanoparticles (SPD/PDA) resulted in better therapeutic potential than those with SPD alone on oxidative stress injury. Furthermore, both SPD and SPD/PDA could induce anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization. Upon injection into degenerative IVDs, the SPD/PDA group achieved a good repair efficacy with a long-term therapeutic effect. These findings indicated that the synergized use of SPD with responsive drug delivery nanocarriers may steadily scavenge reactive oxygen species and provide an effective approach toward the treatment of IVDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Recycling effluents boosts AD performance of lignocellulosic biomass. An 87 % improvement in specific biogas yield achieved by effluents recycled. • Methanol from pectin hydrolyzation involved into the methylotrophic methanogenesis. • Biogenic amine pathway contributed to methylamines production. Effluents recycling proves to be an effective method for enhancing the performance of anaerobic digestion system for lignocellulosic-like biomass. However, a limited understanding exists regarding the regulation mechanisms of methanogens. This study aims to systematically assess the dynamic interactions between process parameters, microbial communities, and methanogenic activity throughout the AD process of corn stover with effluents recycling. The results show a significant increase in the specific biogas yields of corn stover to 369 ± 115 mL/g VS with effluents recycling, an 87 % improvement compared to the control system. Effluents recycling can recover nitrogen and selectively enrich the abundances of microorganisms such as Herbinix hemicellulosilytica , Bacteroides paurosaccharolyticus and Methanosarcina mazei , etc. Correspondingly, the strategy improves the abundance of CAZymes, enhancing the efficient depolymerization of cellulose, glucuronoarabinoxylan, xyloglucan and pectin. Methanol and methylamines originating from enhanced pectin hydrolyzation and the biogenic amine pathway boost methylotrophic methanogenesis. This study addresses knowledge gaps in producing-pathways of precursors for methylotrophic methanogenesis and elucidates the mechanism to boost methanogenesis process of lignocellulosic-like biomass with effluents recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conformal growth of homogeneous and dense (0 0 1) plane-dominated zinc hydroxide sulfate layer was realized on (0 0 2)-textured Zn metal foil electrode, which achieved stable interface chemistry by hindering further corrosion reaction and promoting horizontal electrochemical plating of metallic Zn, thus improving the electrochemical reversibility of (0 0 2)-textured Zn electrode and aqueous Zn batteries. [Display omitted] Despite the advances of aqueous zinc (Zn) batteries as sustainable energy storage systems, their practical application remains challenging due to the issues of spontaneous corrosion and dendritic deposits at the Zn metal anode. In this work, conformal growth of zinc hydroxide sulfate (ZHS) with dominating (0 0 1) facet was realized on (0 0 2) plane-dominated Zn metal foil fabricated through a facile thermal annealing process. The ZHS possessed high Zn2+ conductivity (16.9 mS cm−1) and low electronic conductivity (1.28 × 104 Ω cm), and acted as a heterogeneous and robust solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer on metallic Zn electrode, which regulated the electrochemical Zn plating behavior and suppressed side reactions simultaneously. Moreover, low self-diffusion barrier along the (0 0 2) plane promoted the 2D diffusion and horizontal electrochemical plating of metallic Zn for (0 0 2)-textured Zn electrode. Consequently, the as-achieved Zn electrode exhibited remarkable cycling stability over 7000 cycles at 2 mA cm−2 and 0.5 mAh cm−2 with a low overpotential of 25 mV in symmetric cells. Pairing with a MnO 2 cathode, the as-achieved Zn electrode achieved stable cell cycling with 92.7% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 10 C with a remarkable average Coulombic efficiency of 99.9%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic Zn is a preferred anode material for rechargeable aqueous batteries towards a smart grid and renewable energy storage. Understanding how the metal nucleates and grows at the aqueous Zn anode is a critical and challenging step to achieve full reversibility of Zn battery chemistry, especially under fast‐charging conditions. Here, by combining in situ optical imaging and theoretical modeling, we uncover the critical parameters governing the electrodeposition stability of the metallic Zn electrode, that is, the competition among crystallographic thermodynamics, kinetics, and Zn2+‐ion diffusion. Moreover, steady‐state Zn metal plating/stripping with Coulombic efficiency above 99 % is achieved at 10–100 mA cm−2 in a reasonably high concentration (3 M) ZnSO4 electrolyte. Significantly, a long‐term cycling‐stable Zn metal electrode is realized with a depth of discharge of 66.7 % under 50 mA cm−2 in both Zn||Zn symmetrical cells and MnO2||Zn full cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bioaugmentation improves the psychrophilic anaerobic digestion performance. • Biogas production was enhanced by 2.8–4.2-fold. • T 80 time was shortened by 11–22 d. • Bioaugmentation alleviates VFA accumulation, especially of acetate and propionate. • Bioaugmentation alters the microbial community structure. Low temperatures result in poor anaerobic digestion (AD). To investigate whether bioaugmentation can improve anaerobic co-digestion of cattle manure and corn straw at 20 °C, five different doses of methanogenic propionate-degrading culture (4%, 8%, 12%, 14%, and 16%) were added to batch AD systems to compare bioaugmentation performance. The results showed that the methane production of all the bioaugmented digesters was enhanced compared to the control, increasing 2.80–4.20-fold with digestion times (T 80) shorter by 11–22 d. The recommended dose for biogas production was 14%, and the recommended dose for the highest bioaugmentation efficiency of microbes was 4%. These improvements were due to the addition of methanogenic propionate-degrading culture, which alleviated volatile fatty acids (VFA) accumulation, especially that of acetate and propionate. Metagenomic sequencing analysis indicated that the increased proportion of propionate-oxidizing bacteria, syntrophic butyrate-oxidizing bacteria, and acetoclastic methanogens in bioaugmentation reactors may be responsible for better AD performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Furfural (FF) is an important bio‐based platform compound derived from lignocellulose. It can be converted into many industrially valuable chemicals, a typical one being methyl‐2‐furoate (MF). At present, MF production depends largely on vigorous one‐step chemical catalysis (oxidative esterification), in which expensive catalysts (precious metals) and a high temperature (60–120 °C) are required. To reduce the costs of this procedure, a mild, green, and cheap chemoenzymatic process is proposed where FF is initially chemically oxidized to furoic acid (FA), and then FA is enzymatically esterified to MF. Neither step requires an expensive catalyst, and both occur at low temperatures (30–50 °C). For the chemical oxidation process, the optimized FA yield of 83.7% was obtained at 40 °C with an FF/BTIC (1,3‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl) imidazolium chloride) molar ratio of 0.18, 10 mL N‐methyl pyrrolidone, and 0.1 MPa oxygen pressure. For the enzymatic esterification, the optimized MF yield reached 80.6% at 50 °C with 50 mg•mL−1 enzyme loading and an alcohol/acid ratio of 7:1. Kinetic studies demonstrated the oxidation to be a sixth‐order reaction, and the esterification to be an endothermic reaction. For both oxidation and esterification reactions, the relationship between the rate constant and temperature agreed well with the Arrhenius equation. For esterification, the relationship between the equilibrium constant and the temperature also agreed with the Van't Hoff equation. A 67.5% MF yield was obtained when sequential oxidation and esterification were initiated from FF. The development of chemoenzymatic processes for MF production from FF is effective and has potential value in decreasing the production cost of MF. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characteristics of seasonal-harvesting and recalcitrance to biodegradation hinder the efficient bioenergy utilization of biomass. To overcome the drawbacks, it's necessary to develop an integrated strategy for ensiling preservation to improve the bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass. In this study, sweet sorghum bagasse (SSB) was ensiled for 21 days, followed by diluted NaOH pretreatment to enhance the biodegradability. Compared with the raw SSB and non-biofortified silage, the bio-fortified ensiling with L. plantarum alone or both L. plantarum and fibrolytic enzyme promoted the degradation of lignocellulose (e.g., hemicellulose, lignin) of SSB. Based on the membership function, L. plantarum additives was the most efficient for the improvement of ensiling quality. The genus of Lactobacillus (3.91–40.45%), Enterobacteriaceae (11.63–38.58%), and Pantoea (8.21–28.01%) were dominant at 21 days, accompanied by the high content of lactic and acetic acid in different silages. Moreover, Lactobacillus was beneficial to ensiling quality. Comparing to raw SSB (40.91%), the enzymatic efficiency of SSB sharply increased to 88.52% by the combination pretreatment of bio-fortified ensiling with L. plantarum and subsequent 2% NaOH, which was the most economical pretreatment method. In short, this work proposes a promising strategy by combining bio-fortified ensiling and NaOH pretreatment for the storage and bioenergy production of SSB. [Display omitted] • L. plantarum and/or fibrolytic enzyme enhanced ensiling quality of SSB. • Bio-fortified ensiling with additives reconstructed bacterial community. • Bio-fortified ensiling with L. plantarum improved the degradation of NDF/ADL. • Bio-fortified ensiling combined NaOH pretreatment enhanced the bioconversion of SSB. • Combination of ensiling with L. plantarum and 2% dilute NaOH was recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A long-term semi-continuous experiment was conducted with varying OLRs and HRTs. • Acid-base balance and thermodynamics of VFA degradation during AD were investigated. • Relationship between acid-base balance and ΔG of VFA degradation was elaborated. • ΔG of VFA degradation to be used as early warning indicators were discussed. • An integrated evaluation strategy is proposed for a comprehensive monitoring of AD. Process monitoring is a top priority for anaerobic digestion (AD), yet it poses a significant challenge due to its inherent inaccuracies and case-specific nature in diagnosing reactor status. Herein, a long-term instability simulation experiment using lignocellulosic biomass was conducted with varying organic loading rate (OLR) and hydraulic retention time (HRT) levels. The increase in OLR (0.75 to 20 kg VS m−3·d−1) and decrease in HRT (20 to 4 d) led to substantial total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) accumulation (>14 g/L) with a concomitant decrease in methane yield and organics removal. Full processing capacity with considerable conversion efficiency at four steps (hydrolysis: 60.43 ± 2.82 %, acidogenesis: 56.13 ± 3.27 %, acetogenesis: 56.03 ± 3.31 %, methanogenesis: 55.93 ± 3.32 %) and optimal methane yield (3.13 ± 0.17 L/(L·d)) was achieved at an OLR of 18 Kg VS·m−3·d−1 and HRT of 4 days. An integrated evaluation strategy for AD process stability is proposed based on the acid-base balance and thermodynamics of VFA degradation. Propionate, iso -valerate, TVFA/bicarbonate alkalinity (BA), and BA/total alkalinity (TA) were identified as potential auxiliary indicators for diagnosing AD imbalances, while ΔG for propionate and valerate degradation served as the early warning signs. To enhance the efficacy and universality of early warnings, relative variations for acid-base indicators based on steady-state (∼15 %) and the absolute threshold value for Δ G Propionate (-40 KJ/mol) and Δ G Valerate (-55 KJ/mol) were adopted. This approach integrates considerations for microbial adaption, thereby enhancing an assessment of whether a given signal reflects irreversible acidification or is merely a temporary fluctuation induced by reversible acidification. The proposed strategy enables a reliable and accurate early warning, holding great promise for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet sorghum, as a seasonal energy crop, is rich in cellulose and hemicellulose that can be converted into biofuels. This work aims at investigating the effects of synergistic regulation of Pichia anomala and cellulase on ensiling quality and microbial community of sweet sorghum silages as a storage and pretreatment method. Furthermore, the combined pretreatment effects of ensiling and ball milling on sweet sorghum were evaluated by microstructure change and enzymatic hydrolysis. Based on membership function analysis, the combination of P. anomala and cellulase (PA + CE) significantly improved the silage quality by preserving organic components and promoting fermentation characteristics. The bioaugmented ensiling with PA + CE restructured the bacterial community by facilitating Lactobacillus and inhibiting undesired microorganisms by killer activity of P. anomala. The combined bioaugmented ensiling pretreatment with ball milling significantly increased the enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency (EHE) to 71%, accompanied by the increased specific surface area and decreased pore size/crystallinity of sweet sorghum. Moreover, the EHE after combined pretreatment was increased by 1.37 times compared with raw material. Hence, the combined pretreatment was demonstrated as a novel strategy to effectively enhance enzymatic hydrolysis of sweet sorghum. [Display omitted] • Combination of P. anomala and cellulase enhanced silage quality of sweet sorghum. • Bioaugmented ensiling with P. anomala & cellulase reconstructed bacterial community. • Synergetic effects of P. anomala & cellulase enhanced biodegradability of sweet sorghum silage. • Ensiling & ball milling increased specific surface area and decreased pore size/crystallinity. • Ball milling further enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis of ensiled sweet sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic lithium (Li) is the ultimate anode candidate for high‐energy‐density rechargeable batteries. However, its practical application is hindered by serious problems, including uncontrolled dendritic Li growth and undesired side reactions. In this study a concept of "salt‐in‐metal" is proposed, and a Li/LiNO3 composite foil is constructed such that a classic electrolyte additive, LiNO3, is embedded successfully into the bulk structure of metallic Li by a facile mechanical kneading approach. The LiNO3 reacts with metallic Li to generate Li+ conductive species (e.g., Li3N and LiNxOy) over the entire electrode. These derivatives afford a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and effectively regulate the uniformity of the nucleation/growth of Li on initial plating, featuring a low nucleation energy barrier and large crystalline size without mossy morphology. Importantly, these derivatives combined with LiNO3 can in‐situ repair the damaged SEI from the large volume change during Li plating/stripping, enabling a stable electrode‐electrolyte interface and suppressing side reactions between metallic Li and electrolyte. Stable cycling with a high capacity retention of 93.1% after 100 cycles is obtained for full cells consisting of high‐loading LiCoO2 cathode (≈20 mg cm−2) and composite metallic Li anode with 25 wt% LiNO3 under a lean electrolyte condition (≈12 µL) at 0.5 C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing energy demands of society today have led to the pursuit of alternative energy storage systems that can fulfil rigorous requirements like cost‐effectiveness and high storage capacities. Based fundamentally on earth‐abundant sodium and sulfur, room‐temperature sodium–sulfur batteries are a promising solution in applications where existing lithium‐ion technology remains less economically viable, particularly in large‐scale stationary systems such as grid‐level storage. Here, the key challenges in the field are first highlighted, followed by comprehensive analyses of accessible strategies to overcome them, starting from engineering of the anode–electrolyte interface in both liquid and solid electrolytes. Recently reported polymer and solid‐state electrolytes are also surveyed. Thereafter, the core principles guiding use‐inspired design of cathode architectures, covering the spectrum of elemental sulfur and polysulfide cathodes, to emerging host structures, and covalent composites are focused upon. Future prospects are explored, with insights into other alkali‐metal systems beyond sodium–sulfur batteries, such as the potassium–sulfur battery. Finally a conclusion is provided by outlining the research directions necessary to attain high energy sodium–sulfur devices, and potential solutions to issues concerning large‐scale production, so as to ultimately realize widespread deployment of practical energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Kitchen waste from different sources have no obvious effect on microbial communities. • Temperature has obvious effect on the changing of bacteria and methanogens. • A selected enrichment in some bacteria observed with temperature changed. In this study, batch experiments were conducted to compare the effect of temperature and substrate source on microbial communities in the anaerobic digestion of kitchen waste. The results showed that the microbial communities of anaerobic digestion were not sensitive to varied sources of waste, but shifted with the change in operating temperatures. In the reactors operated at mesophilic conditions, Levilinea , Syntrophomonas , Methanothrix , and Methanosphaerula , etc. were the dominant microbes during the process. While in thermophilic reactors, Levilinea , Ornatilinea , Methanosphaerula and Methanomassiliicoccus , etc. prevailed. Meanwhile, an enrichment in Coprothermobacter , Defluviitoga , Defluviitalea , Tepidimicrobium , Lutispora and Fonticella were observed as the temperature changed from mesophilic to thermophilic, suggesting these genera could be selectively enriched at thermophilic conditions. The results provided fundamental understanding of the microbiology that could support the scale up of food waste anaerobic digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hierarchical zeolites are promising for the development of biomass catalytic fast pyrolysis; composite molecular sieves with efficient catalytic activity are needed to expand their practical applications. Micro–mesoporous ZSM-5/SBA-15 composite molecular sieves doped with different amounts of Ga element were successfully synthesized via an isometric impregnation method. The physical structures of the prepared materials were characterized by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and pyrolysis infrared spectroscopy. Based on these analyses, Ga was distributed uniformly on the surface of the composite molecular sieve catalyst. As Ga loading increased, Brønsted–Lewis (B + L) acids increased. Pyrolysis of rice hull was performed using a multi-function catalyst evaluation device and catalytic performance and anti-coking performance were evaluated. Ga-modified ZSM-5/SBA-15 showed better benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) catalytic selectivity and anti-coking properties compared to those of undoped catalysts. Additionally, the 2%Ga-ZSM-5/SBA-15 zeolite composite showed the best BTX catalytic selectivity, with a BTX yield of 25.52%, clearly demonstrating its potential for application in BTX production and practical uses in petrochemical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there is no cure for spinal cord injury (SCI), a heavy burden on patients physiology and psychology. We found that microRNA-139-5p (miR-139-5p) expression was significantly downregulated in damaged spinal cords in mice. So, we aimed to test the effect of treatment with miR-139-5p on functional recovery and neuropathic pain in mice with SCI and investigate the underlying mechanism. The luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR-139-5p directly targeted mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1 (Mst1), and miR-139-5p treatment suppressed Mst1 protein expression in damaged spinal cords of mice. Wild-type mice and Mst1(−/−) mice were exposed to SCI and treated with miR-139-5p agomir via intrathecal infusion. Treatment of SCI mice with miR-139-5p accelerated locomotor functional recovery, reduced hypersensitivities to mechanical and thermal stimulations, and promoted neuronal survival in damaged spinal cords. Treatment with miR-139-5p enhanced phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase alpha (AMPKα), improved mitochondrial function, and suppressed NF-κB-related inflammation in damaged spinal cords. Deficiency of Mst1 had similar benefits in mice with SCI. Furthermore, miR-139-5p treatment did not provide further protection in Mst1(−/−) mice against SCI. In conclusion, miR-139-5p treatment enhanced functional recovery and reduced pain hypersensitivity in mice with SCI, possibly through targeting Mst1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel early warning method for anaerobic digestion failure is presented. • Gibbs free energy can be used as warning indicator for anaerobic digestion failure. • Anaerobic digestion failure can accordingly be indicated up to 21 days in advance. • Thermodynamic early warning has the potential to be a universal method. To investigate whether thermodynamic calculations of anaerobic digestion processes can be applied to the early warning for unstable anaerobic digestion, a group of semi-continuous digesters fed with an energy crop (Hybrid Pennisetum) were operated via a step-wise increase in the organic load rates until overload occurred. Traditional early warning indicators, such as biogas production and content, pH, alkalinity, and volatile fatty acids as well as the methane/carbon dioxide (CH 4 /CO 2) and volatile fatty acid/alkalinity ratios, were regularly monitored during the process. The Gibbs free energy changes (Δ G) of the methanogenesis phases of valerate, butyrate, and propionate were calculated based on Nernst and Van't Hoff equations. The results demonstrate that Δ G of the three syntrophic methanogenesis phases can be used as an early warning indicator for unstable anaerobic digestion, indicating anaerobic digestion failure (ceased biogas production) up to 21 days in advance, that is, 1–8 days earlier than some other indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hybrid Pennisetum was delignified by gamma-valerolactone/water pretreatment. • The solid fraction after pretreatment was used for anaerobic digestion. • Gamma-valerolactone/water (50/50) pretreatment at 150 °C was the optimal condition. • The lignin-rich liquid fraction was used for the synthesis of lignin nanoparticles. • Gamma-valerolactone/water could be recycled after lignin nanoparticles synthesis. This study is the first to integrate gamma-valerolactone/water (GVL/water) pretreatment with anaerobic digestion (AD) for biogas production and lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) synthesis. The hydrothermal treatment was conducted at 135 to 180 °C with GVL at 0 to 90%. After pretreatment, the compositions of hybrid pennisetum were changed with the removal of lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose to different extent. Subsequent anaerobic digestion achieved a maximal specific methane yield of 228.00 ± 4.37 mL/g VS, compared with that at 165.11 ± 1.99 mL/g VS for the control. The highest actual methane yield (150 mL/g RM) was achieved by pretreatment with GVL/water (50/50) at 150 °C for 90 min. LNPs at 200 to 2000 nm were synthesized from the liquid waste with a yield at ~4 mg/mL. The mass balance of this integrated method was discussed. In general, the maximal valorisation of hybrid pennisetum was achieved based on a catalyst-free of GVL/water pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low reactivity of lignin limits its performance in terms of selective oxidative cleavage of the C–C bond and most researchers employ lignin models as substrates for producing useful small molecules while the uses of real lignin are largely limited to low value material applications. Herein, a methanol/choline chloride (MeOH–ChCl)-based deep eutectic solvent (DES) was used to improve the solubility of lignin and the redox potential of the catalyst Cu(OAc)2/1,10-phenanthroline. A high total yield of acetovanillone and acetic acid (87.12%) was obtained from alkaline lignin under mild conditions of 60 °C for 3 h. Two-dimensional heteronuclear single-quantum coherence nuclear magnetic resonance (2D-HSQC NMR) spectra indicated that condensation and depolymerisation reactions of side chain groups of alkaline lignin occurred simultaneously, and longer side chains may inhibit acetic acid formation, while more guaiacyl units may increase the acetovanillone yield. Additionally, this catalytic oxidation system has the potential to produce acetovanillone and acetic acid from DES extracted lignin, pretreated corncob and raw materials of corncob. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]