bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Crank‐Nicolson Block‐Centered Difference Scheme for a Tempered Time‐Fractional Mobile/Immobile Equation With Variable Coefficients
Authors: Dong Yuexiu , Nong Lijuan , Chen An
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we are interest in developing efficient numerical scheme for solving a two‐dimensional tempered time‐fractional mobile/immobile equation with time‐space dependent coefficients, which arises in the modeling of groundwater flow and pollutant transport. By applying the fast modified L1 formula in time and the block‐centered difference method in space, we establish a fully discrete fast Crank‐Nicolson difference scheme. The stability and error estimate of the proposed scheme are strictly proved. To handle the initial weakly singularity of the solution, we also consider a fast nonuniform modified L1 formula to solve the model problem. The numerical tests, both smooth and nonsmooth solution cases, are demonstrated to verify the accuracy and efficiency of our scheme.
Effects of Random Field Heterogeneity of Spatial Soil Properties on the Bearing Capacity of Neighbouring Footing
Authors: Boru Yada Tesfaye , Pieczyńska‐Kozłowska Joanna , Puła Wojciech
Published: January 2025

The study presents a comprehensive study on the assessment of the bearing capacity of closely spaced strip footings on c‐ø soil, considering spatial variability in soil properties. A linear elastic model is employed for footings and elastic–perfect plastic soil behaviour via the Mohr–Coulomb yield criterion. Soil properties obtained from extensive field investigations of Taranto Blue Clay (TBC) in Italy are modelled as stationary random fields (RFs) generated using the Fourier series method. The cohesion and friction angle RFs are integrated with the Z‐soil FE code. The final results are obtained according to the random finite element method (RFEM). The study investigates the influence of spacing distances between footings and spatial correlation lengths of soil parameters on the bearing capacity. Results show how spacing distance affects bearing capacity. Moreover, it indicates that neighbouring footing bearing capacity is strongly correlated with investigated parameters. In the case of small spatial correlation lengths, the patterns were obtained as non‐symmetrical, transitioning to more symmetrical patterns at larger lengths. The manuscript concludes by presenting reliability‐based design considerations for the ultimate bearing capacity, considering the horizontal spatial scale of fluctuation (SOF). The findings emphasize the importance of evaluating allowable design bearing capacity for proximity structures using RFEM and provide valuable insights into the interplay between spacing distances and spatial variability in soil properties. To this end, the study underscores the critical interplay between spacing distance, spatial correlation lengths, and random soil properties in assessing neighbouring footing‐bearing capacities.
CXCL14 increase dendritic cell antigen presentation and promote asthma immune response
Authors: Wu Wenjie , Ding Fengxia , Li Yan , Fu Zhou
Published: January 2025

Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease characterized by reversible airflow limitation and airway hyperresponsiveness, which requires long‐term drug treatment and management. It is very important to study the etiology and pathogenesis of asthma for clinical asthma prevention and treatment. In this study, to understand the correlation between C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 14 (CXCL14) in bone marrow dendritic cells (BMDCs) and antigen presentation of asthma dendritic cells (DCs), an in vitro model of BMDCs was constructed for RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq). The changes of CXCL14 in BMDCs after house dust mites (HDM) stimulation were evaluated. Finally, evaluated the inflammation of the lung tissue in mice, and the expression of costimulatory molecules on the DCs surface in the lung tissue was analyzed by flow cytometry. The results showed that CXCL14 was upregulated in BMDCs after HDM stimulation, and its function was related to signal molecule interaction and the immune system. The expression of CXCL14 was increased in the HDM‐induced allergic asthma model. Knockdown of CXCL14 reduced the expression of costimulatory molecules CD86, CD80, and major histocompatibility complex II on the surface of DCs in the lung tissue of mice, induced immune tolerance, and reduced lung inflammatory cell infiltration and inflammatory factor levels, providing new ideas and theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of bronchial asthma.
Fecal Metaproteomics as a Tool to Monitor Functional Modifications Induced in the Gut Microbiota by Ketogenic Diet: A Case Study
Authors: Tanca Alessandro , Masia Simona , Giustacchini Piero , Uzzau Sergio
Published: January 2025

Metaproteomics is a valuable approach to characterize the biological functions involved in the gut microbiota (GM) response to dietary interventions. Ketogenic diets (KDs) are very effective in controlling seizure severity and frequency in drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE) and in the weight loss management in obese/overweight individuals. This case study provides proof of concept for the suitability of metaproteomics to monitor changes in taxonomic and functional GM features in an individual on a short‐term very low‐calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD, 4 weeks), followed by a low‐calorie diet (LCD). A marked increase in Akkermansia and Pseudomonadota was observed during VLCKD and reversed after the partial reintroduction of carbohydrates (LCD), in agreement with the results of previous metagenomic studies. In functional terms, the relative increase in Akkermansia was associated with an increased production of proteins involved in response to stress and biosynthesis of gamma‐aminobutyric acid. In addition, VLCKD caused a relative increase in enzymes involved in the synthesis of the beta‐ketoacid acetoacetate and of the ketogenic amino acid leucine. Our data support the potential of fecal metaproteomics to investigate the GM‐dependent effect of KD as a therapeutic option in obese/overweight individuals and DRE patients.
Decoding Microbial Plastic Colonisation: Multi‐Omic Insights Into the Fast‐Evolving Dynamics of Early‐Stage Biofilms
Authors: Lee Charlotte E. , Messer Lauren F. , Wattiez Ruddy , Matallana‐Surget Sabine
Published: January 2025

Marine plastispheres represent dynamic microhabitats where microorganisms colonise plastic debris and interact. Metaproteomics has provided novel insights into the metabolic processes within these communities; however, the early metabolic interactions driving the plastisphere formation remain unclear. This study utilised metaproteomic and metagenomic approaches to explore early plastisphere formation on low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) over 3 (D3) and 7 (D7) days, focusing on microbial diversity, activity and biofilm development. In total, 2948 proteins were analysed, revealing dominant proteomes from Pseudomonas and Marinomonas, with near‐complete metagenome‐assembled genomes (MAGs). Pseudomonas dominated at D3, whilst at D7, Marinomonas, along with Acinetobacter, Vibrio and other genera became more prevalent. Pseudomonas and Marinomonas showed high expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) suppression proteins, associated with oxidative stress regulation, whilst granule formation, and alternative carbon utilisation enzymes, also indicated nutrient limitations. Interestingly, 13 alkanes and other xenobiotic degradation enzymes were expressed by five genera. The expression of toxins, several type VI secretion system (TVISS) proteins, and biofilm formation proteins by Pseudomonas indicated their competitive advantage against other taxa. Upregulated metabolic pathways relating to substrate transport also suggested enhanced nutrient cross‐feeding within the more diverse biofilm community. These insights enhance our understanding of plastisphere ecology and its potential for biotechnological applications.
Digital Regulation and Questions of Legitimacy
Authors: Moss Giles
Published: January 2025

Governments across the world have introduced or are considering new digital regulation to address a range of policy issues, from long‐standing concerns about illegal and harmful content online to more recent debates about the risks and benefits of generative AI. As new regimes of digital regulation take shape, questions about their legitimacy are likely to become ever more central. Focusing on the model of independent regulation favoured in liberal democracies, this article notes that the general problems of legitimacy regulators faces may be aggravated in the case of digital regulation, since the factors believed to make regulation effective (technical expertise, agility, adaptability and collaborative relations with industry) widen the gap between regulators and democratic publics and increase the likelihood of ‘capture’ by powerful stakeholders and ideologies. Rejecting both technocratic and populist‐decisionist responses to these legitimation problems, the article draws instead on work that rethinks regulation along more deliberative democratic lines. To improve the legitimacy of digital regulation, the focus should be on increasing the quality of justification between regulators and their publics, ensuring not just that those involved in regulation justify their decisions to those they affect and are supposed to serve, but that members of the public are empowered to reflect on, test and contribute to shaping these justifications.
Quantitative Measurement of Surface Oxidation of Polypropylene by O Atoms: Increase and Subsequent Decrease in Hydrophilicity Induced by O‐Atom Treatment
Authors: Kimata Yuto , Du Hao , Ono Ryo
Published: January 2025

To examine the surface modification of polypropylene (PP) by O atoms, PP surfaces are treated using a vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) photodissociation reactive species supply method. The O‐atom treatment initially reduces the water contact angle (WCA) on the PP surface; however, prolonged treatment leads to an increase in the WCA. This increase is likely due to the evaporation of low‐molecular‐weight oxidized materials generated by PP chain scission. The relationship between O‐atom density and the observed reduction and subsequent increase in WCA is analyzed in detail. The results are compared with findings from previous studies on PP plasma treatment to elucidate the specific role of O atoms in plasma‐based surface treatments.
Parental Dependency and Costly Offspring: Housing and Fertility of Young Adults in China's Large City
Authors: Mo Haitong , Liu Yuting
Published: January 2025

Young adults in large cities are experiencing serious livelihood challenges, notably precarious employment, housing difficulties, and diminished fertility intention. Existing research on the interplay between fertility and housing has yet to fully capture the intergenerational dynamics. This study utilised questionnaires and in‐depth interviews conducted in a typical China's large city, Guangzhou, to examine the associations between the housing condition and the fertility intention of young adults, across different types of parental support, that is, ‘without parental support’, ‘stay at parents' home’, ‘support renting’, ‘support for partial down payment and/or mortgage’ and ‘support for full payment of homeownership’. Findings indicate that the housing condition significantly and positively associates with the fertility intention, but only for those without parental support or receiving support for partial down payment and/or mortgage. A comparative analysis across the five parental support categories reveals that, the association between the housing condition and the fertility intention is significantly stronger for the group ‘support for partial down payment and/or housing mortgage’ compared to those ‘without parental support’, ‘staying at parents' home’ and receiving ‘support for full payment of homeownership’. This study highlights the cost–utility dynamics of housing, the intergenerational wealth flows, and the gender strategic interactions as crucial underlying mechanisms.
Sputter Epitaxy of Transition Metal Nitrides: Advances in Superconductors, Semiconductors, and Ferroelectrics
Authors: Kobayashi Atsushi , Maeda Takuya , Akiyama Toru , Kawamura Takahiro , Honda Yoshio
Published: January 2025

In this review, the epitaxial growth of transition metal nitrides (TMNs) is explored, focusing on sputter epitaxy as a versatile method for developing advanced materials such as NbN superconductors and ScAlN ferroelectrics. In the recent studies, it is shown that, unlike conventional growth techniques, sputter epitaxy enables the deposition of high‐melting‐point transition metals, offering advantages for growing thin films with unique properties. In this review, recent progress in integrating TMNs with nitride semiconductors to fabricate hybrid devices that exhibit both superconducting and ferroelectric characteristics is addressed. These developments underscore the potential of sputter epitaxy as a foundational tool for advancing the next generation of electronic and quantum devices.
Enhanced Photoresponse of VO2 Nanowires by Surface Doping with Au Nanoparticles via Dielectrophoresis Method
Authors: Uddin Inayat , Thi Hai Yen Le , Phan Nhat Anh Nguyen , Kim Hanul , Yoo Won Jong , Khan Muhammad Atif , Kim Gil‐Ho
Published: January 2025

The recent advancements in synthesizing single‐crystalline 1D nanostructures of vanadium dioxide (VO2) in the form of nanowires (NWs) have sparked increased research interest for application in electrical and optical switching devices. In this study, the photocurrent response in VO2 is examined. This highly correlated material is well known for its significant metal‐insulator transition at around 340 K. This property makes VO2 potentially valuable for optoelectronic detection and switching applications, particularly for UV wavelengths. The investigation included the examination of individual and isolated VO2 NWs photocurrent response before and after gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) surface deposition via the dielectrophoresis (DEP) method. Carrier injection is controlled by manipulating the presence of AuNPs on the surface of a single‐crystal VO2 NWs. The VO2 NW device exhibits an enhanced photocurrent after AuNPs surface deposition. In this study, the significance of using AuNP deposition is demonstrated via the DEP process for the improved photocurrent response to analyze nanoscale crystals in studying highly correlated materials for thermoelectric and optical applications.
Design of Perovskite‐Based Photodetector Demonstrating Wide Spectral Responsivity Employing Graphene Oxide for Enhanced Electron Transport
Authors: Srivastava Richa , Verma Sudhanshu , Chaudhary Akhilesh Kumar
Published: January 2025

Perovskite‐based photodetectors have gained significant attention due to their remarkable optoelectronic properties, including high absorption coefficients, tunable bandgaps, and suitable carrier diffusion lengths. This work focuses on designing a high‐performance perovskite photodetector with a device structure of FTO/GO/CH3NH3SnBr3/Zn3P2/Au, utilizing SCAPS‐1D simulations to explore key performance parameters. The analysis systematically examines the effects of crucial factors such as the perovskite layer thickness and defect densities on important device metrics, including detectivity, responsivity, and dark current. In this design, CH3NH3SnBr3 (methylammonium thin bromide) serves as the absorber layer, while GO (graphene oxide) and Zn3P2 (zinc phosphide) act as interfacial layers, contributing to enhanced device performance. The simulated photodetector demonstrates an impressive short‐circuit current density(JSC) of 25.68 mA cm−2 and achieves a quantum efficiency exceeding 95% in the visible spectrum. Additionally, the device shows a maximum detectivity of 9.7 × 1016 Jones and a responsivity peak of 0.57 A W−1, particularly in the red and near‐infrared regions of the spectrum. These results underscore the immense potential of perovskite materials for developing efficient, wide‐spectrum photodetectors with enhanced optoelectronic characteristics.
Exploring the Therapeutic Effects of Anisole on Psoriasis in Mice Based on the JAK1/STAT3 Pathway
Authors: Ning Qing , Yue Yingxue , Liu Xinlian , Ji Wenbo , Zhao Qin , Wang Jing , Zhang Zhenhai
Published: January 2025

Safe and effective treatments for psoriasis are limited. Anisole is an active ingredient in citrus and basil volatile oils; however, its potential for psoriasis treatment remains unexplored. To investigate the effects and mechanism of anisole transdermal administration as a treatment for psoriasis. Imiquimod (IMQ) was used to establish a C57 mouse psoriasis model. The severity of psoriasis lesions in each group was assessed by evaluating the thickness of skin lesions, erythema, and scales. Pathological changes within the epidermis organization were evaluated via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining using light microscopy. Serum inflammatory factor levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and western blotting (WB) were performed to analyze the mRNA levels of relevant inflammatory factors and the expression of key proteins at the skin lesion sites in psoriatic mice. In model mice, applying anisole hydrogels significantly reduced the serum levels of pro‐inflammatory factors interleukin (IL)‐17A, (IL)‐23, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and interferon (IFN)‐γ. H&E staining revealed significantly attenuated stratum spinosum thickening and lymphocyte infiltration in the treatment group. RT‐qPCR results further demonstrated that the skin tissues from the treatment group exhibited significantly reduced Il1b, Il17a, Il22, and Tnfa mRNA expression. Western blotting revealed inhibition of the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway within anisole‐treated psoriatic tissues. Anisole potentially reduces psoriatic‐associated inflammation through the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway, alleviating IMQ‐induced psoriasis.
Counterfactual All‐Or‐Nothing Oblivious Transfer for Quantum Messages
Authors: Cai Xiao‐Qiu , Yang Yu‐Guang , Wang Tian‐Yin , Xu Guang‐Bao , Jiang Dong‐Huan
Published: January 2025

Oblivious transfer (OT) protocol is an essential building block for secure multiparty computation. The transmission of quantum messages is conductive in executing complex secure multiparty quantum computation tasks and even distributed quantum computation tasks. However, as an important form of OT protocol, existing all‐or‐nothing OT protocols only work for the transmission of classical messages thus limiting application scenarios. To tackle this issue, a counterfactual all‐or‐nothing OT protocol is proposed for quantum messages. Compared with existing all‐or‐nothing OT protocols for classical messages, the proposed protocol has three advantages: i) it is achieved without any physical particles traveling between the sender and the receiver thus reducing the communication complexity; ii) no prior entanglement between the sender and the receiver is required thus facilitating protocol implementation, and iii) it works for known even unknown quantum messages thereby offering broader application scenarios.
Copper‐Based Nanozymes: Potential Therapies for Infectious Wounds
Authors: Ge Haojie , Wang Min , Wei Xiaolong , Chen Xu‐Lin , Wang Xianwen
Published: January 2025

Bacterial infections are a significant obstacle to the healing of acute and chronic wounds, such as diabetic ulcers and burn injuries. Traditional antibiotics are the primary treatment for bacterial infections, but they present issues such as antibiotic resistance, limited efficacy, and potential side effects. This challenge leads to the exploration of nanozymes as alternative therapeutic agents. Nanozymes are nanomaterials with enzyme‐like activities. Owing to their low production costs, high stability, scalability, and multifunctionality, nanozymes have emerged as a prominent focus in antimicrobial research. Among various types of nanozymes, metal‐based nanozymes offer several benefits, including broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity and robust catalytic properties. Specifically, copper‐based nanozymes (CuNZs) have shown considerable potential in promoting wound healing. They exhibit strong antimicrobial effects, reduce inflammation, and enhance tissue regeneration, making them highly advantageous for use in wound care. This review describes the dual functions of CuNZs in combating infection and facilitating wound repair. Recent advancements in the design and synthesis of CuNZs, evaluating their antimicrobial efficacy, healing promotion, and biosafety both in vitro and in vivo on the basis of their core components, are critically important.
3D‐Printing of Freestanding Pure MXene Microarchitectures
Authors: Sim Ho Hyung , Kim Jung Hyun , Bae Jongcheon , Yoo Chanbin , Kim Dong‐Soo , Pyo Jaeyeon , Seol Seung Kwon
Published: January 2025

Since their discovery, titanium‐based MXenes (Ti3C2Tx) have attracted significant attention. Several studies have presented versatile, cost‐effective, and scalable approaches for fabricating Ti3C2Tx‐based functional components. However, most previous studies only allowed the realization of 2D patterns or required diverse additives to produce 3D architectures. Herein, a 3D‐Printing approach for producing 3D microarchitectures composed entirely of Ti3C2Tx. Ti3C2Tx additive‐free aqueous ink consists of 0.1 wt.% Ti3C2Tx nanosheets is proposed. The diameter (ds) of the printed Ti3C2Tx 3D microarchitectures can be determined by controlling the meniscus channel size, which is influenced by the diameter (dp) of the micropipette opening and pipette‐pulling rate (v). Through optimized control of the pipette, a minimum ds of 1.3 µm is obtained, and complex shapes such as zigzag, helix, bridge, and pyramid shapes can be implemented. To demonstrate the feasibility of realizing functional Ti3C2Tx 3D components, three electrical components are demonstrated: 3D micro‐interconnects and 3D transducers for photodetectors and humidity sensors. It is believed that this facile approach can be used for nano 3D‐Printing as well as micro printing of Ti3C2Tx architectures.
Fine‐Tuning Intra/Inter‐Molecular Interaction via Ternary Copolymerization Strategy to Obtain Efficient Polymer Donors
Authors: Li Liqing , Que Mingming , Fang Yu , Wang Xiaoping , Yue Yaru , Jeong Sang‐Young , Woo Han Young , Chen Shanshan , Liu Jinbiao , Huang Bin
Published: January 2025

Incorporating a third component through ternary copolymerization strategy has proven to be a promising and effective approach for further improving the device performance of polymer donors. However, terpolymer donors typically exhibit negative effects on molecular stacking and weaken charge transport due to the irregular distribution of the polymer skeleton. Herein, two terpolymers PBBQ‐5 (5% ff‐Qx) and PBBQ‐10 (10% ff‐Qx) are developed by introducing the difluoro‐2‐(3‐hexyldecyloxy) quinoxaline (ff‐Qx) to the main chain of PM6. The introduction of ff‐Qx unit not only enables the terpolymers to possess N···S noncovalent intramolecular interactions that contribute to enlarge molecular planarity and enhance intramolecular interaction but also can fine‐tuning electrostatic potential (ESP) values of the related polymers, thereby regulate intermolecular interactions with acceptor by electrostatic force. After blending with L8‐BO, the PBBQ‐5:L8‐BO‐based blend film exhibits appreciated miscibility, desirable phase separation sizes, and more ordered molecular packing than the analogs. Consequently, an impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) as high as 19.54% is realized in PBBQ‐5‐based devices, which set a new record for Qx‐based polymer solar cells. The work emphasizes the drawbacks of terpolymers and provides a new pathway for developing high‐performance polymer donors by optimizing intra/inter‐molecular interaction.
Formation and Evolution of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase on Silicon Electrodes from Fluorine‐Free Electrolytes
Authors: Lu Zijie , Patranika Tamara , Naylor Andrew J. , Mindemark Jonas , Tardif Samuel , Hernández Guiomar , Lyonnard Sandrine
Published: January 2025

With the increasing attention to energy storage solutions, a growing emphasis has been placed on environmentally compatible electrolytes tailored for lithium‐ion batteries. This study investigates the surface behavior of Si wafers as model systems cycled with a fluorine‐free electrolyte based on lithium bis(oxalato)borate (LiBOB), with and without the additive vinylene carbonate (VC). By utilizing operando X‐ray reflectivity (XRR) and ex situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), the intricate processes involved in solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation is elucidated, SiO2/Si (de)lithiation, and the impact of the VC additive. Three distinct stages in SEI evolution during lithiation and delithiation are identified: SEI formation, subsequent densification and growth, and decrease in SEI thickness during delithiation, which collectively demonstrate the breathing behavior of the SEI during cycling. The addition of VC is found to mitigate LiBOB decomposition during cycling and promote a smoother SEI layer. Moreover, lithium trapping within the Si wafer post‐delithiation is observed for both electrolytes but to a lesser extent with the addition of VC. This study offers structural and chemical insights into the fundamental processes governing SEI formation and Si wafer (de)lithiation in LiBOB‐based electrolytes, with implications for designing environmentally friendly lithium‐ion batteries.
Iodine Stabilization in Perovskite Lattice for Internal Stress Relief
Authors: Tang Yizhe , Zong Huiyi , Huang Jin , Yang Husheng , Wang Kai , (Frank) Liu Shengzhong , Yang Dong
Published: January 2025

Atomic iodine ionization in perovskite crystals leads to defect formation, lattice distortion, and the occurrence of localized micro‐strain. These atomic‐level chemical and mechanical effects significantly alter the electronic band landscape, profoundly affecting device performance. While iodine stabilization effects have traditionally been focused on stability, their impact on electrical properties, particularly the coupling effect with internal stress and lattice strain, remains underexplored. In this study, an iodine stabilization protocol using a parallel‐π‐stacked small molecule, [2,2]‐paracyclophane (PCP) is implemented, which plays a beneficial role in relieving internal stress within the perovskite lattice, thereby improving the film's electrical properties. By leveraging this iodine stabilization strategy, internal stress in the perovskite film, resulting in a strain‐free perovskite film and a corresponding device with an improved efficiency of 25.26% from 23.93% is successfully alleviated. The maximum power point tracking test of the perovskite device keeps 85% of its initial efficiency when illuminated under 1 sun for 1000 h, while the control device only maintains 57% of the initial efficiency under the same conditions. The good stability originates from the stable iodide ions in the perovskite lattice due to preventing iodide ions oxidation and perovskite degradation.
Rational design of deep eutectic solvents with low viscosities and multiple active sites for efficient recognition and selective capture of NH3
Authors: Zheng Lu , Ju Saisai , Fang Siqi , Zhang Hongwei , Cai Zhenping , Huang Kuan , Jiang Lilong
Published: January 2025

Efficient recognition and selective capture of NH3 is not only beneficial for increasing the productivity of the synthetic NH3 industry but also for reducing air pollution. For this purpose, a group of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) consisting of glycolic acid (GA) and phenol (PhOH) with low viscosities and multiple active sites was rationally designed in this work. Experimental results show that the GA + PhOH DESs display extremely fast NH3 absorption rates (within 51 s for equilibrium) and high NH3 solubility. At 313.2 K, the NH3 absorption capacities of GA + PhOH (1:1) reach 6.75 mol/kg (at 10.7 kPa) and 14.72 mol/kg (at 201.0 kPa). The NH3 solubility of GA + PhOH DESs at low pressures were minimally changed after more than 100 days of air exposure. In addition, the NH3 solubility of GA + PhOH DESs remain highly stable in 10 consecutive absorption‐desorption cycles. More importantly, NH3 can be selectively captured by GA + PhOH DESs from NH3/CO2/N2 and NH3/N2/H2 mixtures. 1H‐NMR, Fourier transform infrared and theoretical calculations were performed to reveal the intrinsic mechanism for the efficient recognition of NH3 by GA + PhOH DESs.
A β‐galactosidase activated near‐infrared fluorescent probe for tracking cellular senescence in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Su Tian , Shen Ruijun , Tu Dengchu , Han Xiaoyue , Luo Xianzhu , Yu Fabiao
Published: January 2025

Cellular senescence is a steady state of cell cycle arrest necessary to maintain homeostasis in organisms. However, senescent cells may cause senescence in neighboring healthy cells, inducing the onset of several diseases, such as inflammation, neurological disorders, and atherosclerosis. Therefore, early detection of cellular senescence is extremely important. β‐Galactosidase (β‐gal), as a critical marker of cellular senescence, can be monitored to facilitate early diagnosis of aging‐related diseases. Furthermore, β‐gal is mainly found in lysosomes, which have a pH value of about 4.5–5.5. Here, we developed a near‐infrared fluorescent probe (QMOH‐Gal) for tracking cell senescence in vitro and in vivo via the detection of β‐gal. In addition, the probe displayed high sensitivity and specificity for β‐gal with good fluorescence signal in the acidity range. Subsequently, this QMOH‐Gal probe was successfully employed to differentiate between normal cells and senescent cells by monitoring β‐gal. Furthermore, the probe not only realized the monitoring of β‐gal in zebrafish but also the tracking of β‐gal in palbociclib‐induced breast tumor senescence. Overall, the probe shows great promise as an effective tool for imaging β‐gal in vivo for studying the biology of aging in organisms.
Effects of ostrich oil on knee osteoarthritis symptoms: A randomized double‐blinded placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ebrahimi Chaharom Aliasghar , Ebrahimi Chaharom Faegheh , Habibi Asl Bohloul , Ghojazadeh Morteza
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint disease that progressively impairs joint function and mobility, especially in the elderly population. While traditional medicine has long cited the therapeutic properties of ostrich oil, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy in treating OA is limited. This study aims to evaluate the effects of ostrich oil on knee OA symptoms in a controlled clinical setting.

Methods

In a double‐blind randomized clinical trial, we studied the efficacy of adjuvant therapy using ostrich oil to improve knee osteoarthritis symptoms. Ninety patients were randomly allocated to an intervention group and a control group. Both groups received 2 mL of ostrich oil or placebo twice daily per knee for two months. The effectiveness of adjuvant therapy was evaluated by measuring improvements in knee osteoarthritis symptoms. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results

The intervention group showed significantly lower knee joint pain scores compared to the control group for both right (1.33 ± 0.59 vs 2.30 ± 0.92, p = 0.001; baseline: 2.83 ± 0.76 vs 2.85 ± 0.94) and left knees (1.31 ± 0.60 vs 2.22 ± 0.83, p = 0.001; baseline: 2.75 ± 0.84 vs 2.81 ± 0.71). Similarly, knee joint stiffness was significantly reduced in the intervention group compared to the control group for both right (1.56 ± 0.74 vs 1.79 ± 0.78, p = 0.035; baseline: 2.18 ± 0.88 vs 2.21 ± 0.91) and left knees (1.45 ± 0.53 vs 1.70 ± 0.69, p = 0.021; baseline: 2.05 ± 0.79 vs 2.12 ± 0.75). The 6‐m walking time improved in both groups, with no significant difference between groups after two months (10.95 ± 3.28 s vs 12.30 ± 3.13 s, p = 0.76; baseline: 16.10 ± 6.24 s vs 15.45 ± 2.28 s).

Conclusion

Symptoms of osteoarthritis, such as stiffness and pain in both knees, significantly reduced with ostrich oil treatment. However, in some criteria, no significant differences were observed between the treatment and control groups.
Identification of leaf rust resistance loci in hard winter wheat using genome‐wide association mapping
Authors: Lakkakula Indira Priyadarshini , Kolmer James A. , Sharma Rajat , St. Amand Paul , Bernardo Amy , Bai Guihua , Ibrahim Amir , Bowden Robert L. , Carver Brett F. , Boehm Jeffrey D. , Aoun Meriem
Published: January 2025

Leaf rust, caused by Puccinia triticina (Pt), is a serious constraint to wheat production. Developing resistant varieties is the best approach to managing this disease. Wheat leaf rust resistance (Lr) genes have been classified into either all‐stage resistance (ASR) or adult‐plant resistance (APR). The objectives of this study were to identify sources of leaf rust resistance in contemporary US hard winter wheat (HWW) and to dissect the genetic basis underlying leaf rust resistance in HWW. A panel of 732 elite HWW genotypes was evaluated for response to US Pt races at the seedling stage and at the adult plant stage in leaf rust nurseries in Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas. Further, the panel was genotyped using multiplex restriction amplicon sequencing (MRA‐Seq) and DNA markers linked to the known ASR genes Lr18, Lr19, Lr21, Lr24, Lr37, and Lr42 and APR genes Lr34, Lr46, Lr67, Lr68, Lr77, and Lr78. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers derived from MRA‐Seq, DNA markers linked to the known Lr genes, and the phenotypic data were used for genome‐wide association study (GWAS) to identify markers associated with leaf rust response. Gene postulation based on leaf rust reactions, DNA markers, and GWAS suggested the presence of Lr1, Lr2a, Lr10, Lr14a, Lr16, Lr18, Lr19, Lr21, Lr24, Lr26, Lr34, Lr37, Lr39, Lr42, Lr46, Lr68, Lr77, and Lr78 in the HWW panel. The GWAS identified 59 SNPs significantly associated with leaf rust response, of which 20 were likely associated with novel resistance loci and can be used to enhance wheat leaf rust resistance.
Efficiency of Land Degradation Neutrality Assessment Indicators of United Nation to Identify Land Degradation in a Semi‐Arid Environment
Authors: Kılıç Miraç , Günal Hikmet
Published: January 2025

The primary objective of this study was to contribute to a deeper understanding of land degradation neutrality (LDN), with a specific focus on Malatya province, located in the semi‐arid region of eastern Türkiye. This case study served as a foundation for establishing a framework to monitor land degradation over time. The research employed three key sub‐indicators—land cover (LC), land productivity (LP), and carbon stocks—following the guidelines of SDG 15.3.1. To assess changes in these sub‐indicators, the SDG 15.3.1 indicator was calculated using 2015 as the baseline year and the preceding period (2000–2015) for comparison. The results indicated that approximately 3.24% of the study area experienced land degradation, primarily attributed to a decline in LP. Of this degradation, about 89.15% was linked to LP loss, while LC (5.91%) and soil organic carbon (SOC) (4.94%) contributed smaller proportions. The study also identified regional variations in land degradation, with intensified degradation occurring in areas undergoing rapid urbanization.
Eco‐friendly mechanochemical synthesis of hybrid phosphide flame retardants for enhanced fire safety in epoxy resins
Authors: Deng Shengxiang , Wu Banglin , He Haiyang , Zhong Sheng , Deng Kaiwen , Feng Xiaming , Yang Hongyu , Wan Chaojun , Yan Cheng
Published: January 2025

Traditional synthesis methods for metal phosphides are often inefficient and not environmentally friendly due to complex procedures. Here, we propose an eco‐friendly and efficient mechanochemical method for phosphide flame retardant synthesis through high‐energy ball milling. Specifically, solid red phosphorus and Ti₃AlC₂ were directly reacted in the milling jar, producing a hybrid flame retardant with TiP and AlP as the main active components (TiP/AlP@C). It demonstrates that the TiP/AlP@C exhibited excellent performances, reducing the maximum thermal decomposition rate of epoxy resin by 35.3%, the maximum carbon monoxide release rate by 29.3%, and the maximum smoke release rate by 11.3%. These findings suggest that the synthesized TiP/AlP@C primarily exerts its flame‐retardant effect by catalyzing the formation of a protective char layer, which acts as a barrier during combustion. This study confirms the effectiveness and scientific validity of the innovative mechanochemical synthesis method for advanced flame retardants.

Highlights

Hybrid phosphide flame retardants were prepared by high energy ball milling.

The milling speed and time are crucial for the mechanochemical reaction.

Hybrid phosphide additive is efficient in reducing fire hazard of epoxy resin.

A synergistic charring effect from hybrid metal phosphides is proposed.
From Perception to Prediction and Interpretation: Enlightening the Gray Zone of Molecular Bricks of Life With the Help of Machine Learning and Quantum Chemistry
Authors: Barone Vincenzo
Published: January 2025

The latest developments of a general exploration/exploitation strategy for the computational study of molecular bricks of life in the gas‐phase are presented and illustrated by means of prototypical semi‐rigid and flexible systems. In the first step, generalized natural internal coordinates are employed to obtain a clear‐cut separation between different degrees of freedom, and machine‐learning algorithms based on chemical descriptors (synthons) drive fast quantum chemical methods in the exploration of rugged potential energy surfaces ruled by soft degrees of freedom. Then, different quantum chemical models are carefully selected for exploiting energies, geometries, and vibrational frequencies with the aim of maximizing the accuracy of the overall description while retaining a reasonable cost for all the steps. In particular, a composite wave‐function method is used for energies, whereas a double‐hybrid functional is employed for geometries and harmonic frequencies and a cheaper global hybrid functional for anharmonic contributions. A panel of molecular bricks of life containing up to 50 atoms is employed to show that the proposed strategy draws closer to the accuracy of state‐of‐the‐art composite wave‐function methods for small semi‐rigid molecules, but is applicable to much larger systems. The implementation of the whole computational workflow in terms of preprocessing and postprocessing of data provided by standard electronic structure codes paves the way toward the accurate yet not prohibitively expensive study of medium‐ to large‐sized molecules by a user‐friendly black‐box tool exploitable also by experiment‐oriented researchers.
Transcription Kinetics in the Coronavirus Life Cycle
Authors: Grelewska‐Nowotko Katarzyna , Elhag Ahmed Eisa , Turowski Tomasz Wojciech
Published: January 2025

Coronaviruses utilize a positive‐sense single‐strand RNA, functioning simultaneously as mRNA and the genome. An RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) plays a dual role in transcribing genes and replicating the genome, making RdRP a critical target in therapies against coronaviruses. This review explores recent advancements in understanding the coronavirus transcription machinery, discusses it within virus infection context, and incorporates kinetic considerations on RdRP activity. We also address steric limitations in coronavirus replication, particularly during early infection phases, and outline hypothesis regarding translation–transcription conflicts, postulating the existence of mechanisms that resolve these issues. In cells infected by coronaviruses, abundant structural proteins are synthesized from subgenomic RNA fragments (sgRNAs) produced via discontinuous transcription. During elongation, RdRP can skip large sections of the viral genome, resulting in the creation of shorter sgRNAs that reflects the stoichiometry of viral structural proteins. Although the precise mechanism of discontinuous transcription remains unknown, we discuss recent hypotheses involving long‐distance RNA–RNA interactions, helicase‐mediated RdRP backtracking, dissociation and reassociation of RdRP, and RdRP dimerization.
Concept of an Integrated Information and Education Platform for Sustainable Development
Authors: Nowak-Meitinger Anna M. , Arute Mrunali K. , Upadhyay Devarsh P. , Jochem Roland
Published: January 2025

To meet the growing demand for sustainable products, companies are increasingly striving to manufacture products aligned with the United Nations’ (UN) 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To communicate this sustainability to customers, companies often use sustainability seals to ensure that the environmental, social and economic impacts during production meet certain criteria. However, the increasing number of these seals awarded by independent organizations often creates confusion rather than clarity due to the lack of transparent criteria and award procedures. Consequently, these seals overlap the usefulness which creates an ambiguity in the consumer's mind while making a purchase. This paper introduces the concept of an information platform, which provides consumers with information about product sustainability, considering the entire product lifecycle (PLC). It aims to collect and evaluate data from different product groups to enable consumers to make purchasing decisions based on their criteria and values. Research was conducted to assess consumers’ access to consolidated information on sustainable product development and manufacturing. The identified gap led to the presentation of the multi-level model of the digital platform. The concept benefits consumers, companies and society by facilitating information and education about sustainability aspects distinguishing companies from the competition in the production of consumer-oriented and sustainable products.
Technology Radar for a Sustainable Biological Transformation in the Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Mügge Janine , Berkhahn Magda , Knauf Tobias , Stark Rainer , Faßbender Lynn , Lange Annika , Riedelsheimer Theresa , Lindow Kai
Published: January 2025

Bio-inspired, bio-integrated, bio-intelligent product and production systems are new research approaches aimed at achieving sustainability in manufacturing. For the industrial application of new technological solutions, it is crucial to convey their added value from not only an economic but also an environmental perspective. The evaluation of their technological readiness plays an important role in implementation. This paper presents a technology radar developed and evaluated within German research project BioFusion 4.0 involving 13 industry and research partners. The paper outlines the development approach and its application by means of three technological examples. The technologies are categorized and assessed using four significant attributes of an effective biological transformation: (1) the mode of action (bio-inspiration, bio-integration, and bio-interaction); (2) the transformative character and (3), the Technology—and (4) Sustainability Readiness Level. The technology radar comprises a step-by-step procedure to assess a technology by each criterion to enable different stakeholders, such as production planners or product developers to evaluate and identify suitable technologies according to their needs and business strategy. The application of the technology radar is demonstrated on the exemplary technologies of a digital twin with integrated life-cycle assessment, situation awareness monitor for networked production systems and bio-based 3D printing.
Collaborative Development of Design Requirements for Designing Assistive Technology Devices for Early Infancy Children
Authors: Braatz Daniel , Luvizoto Renato , Fontes Andrea , Santos Mariana , Lizarelli Fabiane , Lourenço Gerusa , Agnelli Luciana , Martinez Rodrigo
Published: January 2025

This article presents the development of product requirements in the context of an assistive technology innovation project. It is emphasized that assistive technology plays a fundamental role in the development of sustainable products and environments, as it enables the inclusion and autonomy of people with disabilities, ensuring that all solutions are accessible and efficient. The initial stages of new product development are considered critical due to the need to define requirements that will guide the design process. The challenge in formulating these requirements lies in the contradiction between determining which criteria and factors should accompany the project at a stage where the understanding of the object and the problem is still limited. The methodological approach is primarily based on a descriptive method of the design process leading to the definition of requirements. The results are mainly divided into four topics: project description, description of the stakeholders and actors involved in the project, description of the process of defining design requirements, and finally, the presentation of the requirements developed in the project context. These results can contribute to two main ways: by sharing the defined requirements and by presenting a process of collective construction of design requirements.
Environmental Impact Assessment of Manufacturing of SiC/SiC Composites
Authors: Karadimas Georgios , Yuksek Yagmur Atescan , Salonitis Konstantinos
Published: January 2025

SiC/SiC composites have attracted increasing attention in various applications such as turbine blades, exhaust nozzles, and combustor chambers, due to their exceptional mechanical and thermal properties. However, the environmental impact of these composites across their life cycle is an important aspect that needs to be evaluated to support their responsible development and use. In this study, a life cycle assessment of SiC/SiC woven laminate ceramic matrix composites to quantify their environmental impacts from cradle-to-gate was conducted. Three different manufacturing methods to produce SiC/SiC woven laminates were researched: chemical vapour infiltration (CVI), pyrolysis of a preceramic polymer (PIP), and melt infiltration (MI). The Life Cycle Assessment approach was utilized to identify the effect outcomes for each process, analysing the raw material extraction, raw material processing, and final product manufacturing phases to develop the environmental impact assessment. The study's outcome showed that CVI had the lowest average environmental impact between the two methods.
Ecosystem Collaboration for Sustainability: Learnings from the Food System
Authors: Hsien Cadence , Evans Steve
Published: January 2025

Individual firm and ecosystem level efforts are required to meaningfully improve sustainability across the food system. While there has been extensive research on collaboration for sustainability in the food system, these studies focus on working along the supply chain. As the food system is complex with relations and effects spanning across supply chains and industries, another approach is for firms to look beyond their traditional supply chain to tackle sustainability at their ecosystem level. In this regard, there is a need to investigate how firms collaborate with partners to influence sustainability in their ecosystem. In this paper, we present findings of an exploratory study with interviews of 17 firms across the food system that work with partners in their ecosystem for sustainability. We found that informal collaboration among partners is common but occur differently at certain stages of innovation and development and happens even when sharing of benefits are not yet agreed upon. The findings suggest how individual firms can support ecosystem change and how they can work with partners to develop and propagate innovative sustainability solutions in the food system.