bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Substance Use: The Mediating Role of Perceptions of Harm and Peer and Parental Attitudes
Authors: Richard Jérémie , Marchica Loredana , Sciola Anthony , Ivoska William , Derevensky Jeffrey
Published: October 2021

Objectives: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are related to the development of a range of mental health problems and risky behaviors. Generally, adolescents who experienced a greater number of ACEs have been found to be at increased risk of substance use behaviors. This study investigated the association between ACEs and substance use (i.e., cigarette smoking, binge drinking, and cannabis use) as mediated by perceptions of harm and perceived peer and parental attitudes towards each substance.Methods: A survey was completed by 6,304 students aged 12 to 18 (M = 14.75, SD = 1.76) in Wood County, Ohio, assessing ACEs, substance use behaviors, perceptions of harm and perceived peer and parental attitudes towards each substance. Mediation models controlling for age and gender were conducted for each substance use behavior including perceptions of harm and perceived peer and parental attitudes specific to each substance.Results: Controlling for age and gender, perceptions of harm and peer attitudes towards binge drinking partially mediated the relationship between ACEs and past month binge-drinking. For past month cannabis and cigarette smoking, peer and parental attitudes, but not perceptions of harm, partially mediated the relationship between ACEs and past month engagement in these substances.Implications: Greater perceptions of harm and negative attitudes by parents or peers may be protective against substance use behaviors among youth that have experienced ACEs. Early interventions focusing on increasing perceptions of harm along with promoting negative parental and peer attitudes towards substance use could decrease rates of use among those who experienced ACEs.
East-West
Authors: Jabłoński Arkadiusz , Nukui Hiroki
Published: October 2021

Expansion of contemporary trade and information exchange relations does not seem to alter significantly the multi-layered requirements of inter-cultural communication. In a very important sense of this term, many of individual decisions related to communication in a multi-cultural environment are inevitably narrowed to single-context world. Only to some extent, this unavoidable limitation of communication on the verge of heterogeneous cultures may be overridden by omnipresent stereotypes and ad hoc generalizations. On a more advanced level of communication, it is the stereotypes that may foster the instances of miscommunication and lead to serious misunderstandings. In the paper, a short account on stereotypes in inter-cultural communication is going to be presented, with some examples of actual instances of miscommunication in Japanese-Polish corporate environment. A proposition of a systematized approach towards the issues and intricacies of Japanese-Polish communication will follow.
Stress distribution in the bonobo (Pan paniscus) trapeziometacarpal joint during grasping
Authors: van Leeuwen Timo , van Lenthe G. Harry , Vereecke Evie E. , Schneider Marco T.
Published: October 2021

The primate thumb plays a central role in grasping and the basal trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint is critical to its function. The TMC joint morphology varies across primates, yet little is known about form-function interaction within in the TMC joint. The purpose of this study was to investigate how stress distributions within the joint differ between five grasping types commonly employed by bonobos (Pan paniscus). Five cadaveric bonobo forearms were CT scanned in five standardized positions of the hand as a basis for the generation of parametric finite element models to compare grasps. We have developed a finite element analysis (FEA) approach to investigate stress distribution patterns in the TMC joint associated with each grasp type. We hypothesized that the simulated stress distributions for each position would correspond with the patterns expected from a saddle-shaped joint. However, we also expected differences in stress patterns arising from instraspecific variations in morphology. The models showed a high agreement between simulated and expected stress patterns for each of the five grasps (86% of successful simulations), while partially (52%) and fully (14%) diverging patterns were also encountered. We identified individual variations of key morphological features in the bonobo TMC joint that account for the diverging stress patterns and emphasized the effect of interindividual morphological variation on joint functioning. This study gives unprecedented insight in the form-function interactions in the TMC joint of the bonobo and provides an innovative FEA approach to modelling intra-articular stress distributions, a valuable tool for the study of the primate thumb biomechanics.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Seroprevalence Surveys in India: An Insight into Current COVID-19 Pandemic Situation
Authors: Ramaswamy Sudarshan , Arora Arpit , Athotra Aditya , Dhuria Meera , Bahl Arti , Patil Anil Digambar , Jain Sudhir Kumar , Singh Sujeet Kumar
Published: October 2021

Antibody test is used in seroprevalence surveys for Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19). Apart from estimating the proportion of population infected, they can help in drawing plenty of inferences about the extent, progress and course of the pandemic. They can potentially be helpful in planning and prioritising vaccine distribution by providing a broad overview into proportion of population immune to COVID-19 in a geographic area and also help in understanding the pockets of high or low seroprevalence. This review was conducted with an aim of compiling an updated and comprehensive information about the seroprevalence of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antibody in various pockets of India in the year 2020, and thus to understand the current pandemic situation in the country. A total of 35 studies were identified through all resources and detailed review was carried out based on these studies. Additionally, indicators were devised to understand and compare the results. Results were further classified into states/Union Territories (UTs), districts, Sub-district regions. The study findings show that the anti SARS-CoV-2 antibodies seroprevalence estimates vary across different regions (states/UTs, districts, sub district regions) of India and can increase or in some instances decrease over the course of time. The study concludes by asserting the need for repeated seroprevalence surveys as well as follow-up studies for current pandemic surveillance.
STABILITY INDICATING HPLC METHOD DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS ESTIMATION OF METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE AND DAPAGLIFLOZIN IN API AND PHARMACEUTICAL DOSAGE FORM
Authors: Dhale Chaitali R , J R Rao
Published: October 2021

A simple and specific stability indicating reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography technique has been developed and validated for the concurrent estimation of metformin hydrochloride and dapagliflozin in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage form. The ideal conditions were established for the study or analysis of the drug such as chromatographic separation was carried out on THERMO fisher ODS C18 column containing mobile phase of water and acetonitrile 65:35 % v/v of pH 6.8 adjusted with 0.1 % ortho phosphoric acid at a flow rate of 1 ml/minutes detected wavelength at 240 nm. The retention time was found to be 2.13 minutes and 5.41 minutes for metformin hydrochloride (MET) and dapagliflozin (DAPA) respectively. The proposed method was found to be linear in the concentration range of 100-600 ug/ml for MET (R2=0.9999) and 1-6 ug/ml for DAP (R2=0.9996), respectively. Method was validated according to ICH guidelines. Co-relation coefficients for both the drugs were found to be less than one. The mean % recoveries obtained were found to be 99.06-100.32% for metformin and 99.1-100.18% for dapagliflozin respectively. Stress testing is carried out for both drugs in acid, base, peroxide, photolytic and thermal degradation. The developed method can be effectively applied for routine analysis in simultaneous determination of metformin hydrochloride and dapagliflozin in bulk and combined tablet dosage form.
Preservice Teachers’ Content Knowledge and Learning Obstacles in Shape and Space
Authors: Akayuure Peter
Published: October 2021

The notion of shape and space is the building block for geometry reasoning. Accordingly, it is expected that those trained to teach would possess substantial content knowledge for teaching planar and spatial notions. This study investigated the level of content knowledge and sources of learning obstacles encountered by preservice teachers prior to their first practice teaching of shape and space.  The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design involving 757 second-year preservice teachers from 12 colleges of education in Ghana. Data were collected through written responses to basic shape and space tasks. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively while qualitative data were analyzed thematically into matrix index. Participants’ content knowledge were categorized into declarative, conditional and procedural knowledge types. The result shows that participants were largely operating at moderate levels of declarative, procedural and conditional content knowledge. However, participants demonstrated higher procedural knowledge than declarative and conditional knowledge. Tasks on prisms and pyramids were more difficult for preservice teachers than those on angles, triangles and quadrilaterals. The learning obstacles encountered were mostly didactical followed by epistemological with few being ontogenetic. The study recommends that tutors should employ investigative didactic strategies to promote the three content knowledge types identified and to address the epistemological and ontogenetic obstacles in preservice teachers’ learning of shape and space.
Traffic Impact Assessment for New Industrial installation at Dhamrai Area along the Dhaka-Aricha Highway, Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Sree Pradip Kumer , Rahman Mohammad Majibur
Published: October 2021

Industrialization can benefit individuals, communities or states as it opens new opportunities for economic, social and human development. The stream of globalization is impelling Bangladesh to adopt the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Bangladesh has pursued export-oriented industrialization, with its key export sectors include textiles, shipbuilding, fish and seafood, jute and leather goods etc. Communication system plays a very important role in accelerating the place of industrialization of a country. Along with the industrialization, communication system of Bangladesh has also been greatly improved. Various major projects have already been implemented and many more new projects have been under taken. Even then various unplanned developments are creating traffic congestion on our highways which become a big problem for us. Factories are being setup on both side along the highways in an unplanned manner to accelerate the pace of industrialization. As a result, roadways cause a slew of issues, including reduced capacity, increased travel time delays, queue length, increased fuel consumption, and roadway accidents, all of which result in unrecorded economic losses. So, it is vital to investigate and measure the traffic impact of industrial installations along highways in order to achieve long-term sustainability. Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) is a technical examination of traffic problems and safety concerns associated with a particular development. In this study, we have assessed the traffic impact due to setting up a new industry along the Dhaka-Aricha Highway(N-5). It is mainly focused on the impact of the new generated traffic will have on the Dhaka -Aricha highway’s traffic system after the installation of an industry.  Furthermore, the findings may be used to take the anticipatory role in the future for becoming a beneficiary to set up a sustainable industry along the highways.
Role of Vitamin (D) Deficiency in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Sheikh Mohammed Hussen , Alhawiti Manal Mohammed E. , Alderaan Shaykhah Salman A. , Alshehri Daher Mushref Daher , Alzahrani Shahad Abdulaziz S. , Albalawi Aseel Ali T. , Alharbi Reem Awadh N. , AlSukairan Faisal Ibrahim S. , Alkhaldi Hamad Saad M. , Alarab Zainab Ali H. , Alsuayri Abdullah Hassan F. , Altemani Marwan Fahad H.
Published: October 2021

The disorder of the automatic spectrum is a neurodolevating disorder characterized by a decrease in social interactions, communication and stereotypical disorders and repeated behaviors with various degrees of gravity. A number of systematic reviews and meta- analyses have described prenatal and perinatal factors, as well as factors related to maternal nutrition and lifestyle. There is evidence to support the importance of vitamin D in the normal structure and function of the nervous system. The effects of VD administration during pregnancy on the mother and conception before and after birth have been repeatedly investigated. It has been found that preventing VD can reduce the risk of autism.
Dietary Supplementation of Lactobacillus brevis Normalizes Metabolic Parameters in Mouse with Obesity and Hyperglycemia
Authors: Ghosh Amlan Jyoti , Islam Rejuan , Saha Tilak
Published: October 2021

Aims: Exploration of the ameliorative effects of Lactobacillus brevis on glycemic and obesity parameters in high fat diet (HFD) fed hyperglycemic Swiss albino mice.

Study Design: HFD with 58% fat, 25.6% carbohydrate, and 16.4% protein was fed to mice to develop metabolic syndrome. The experimental group of obese mice was fed with oral supplement of L. brevis for 28 days and the metabolic parameters of the mice are compared with control groups. The experiments were performed in triplicate.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was executed in the Laboratory of Immunology and Microbiology, Department of Zoology, University of North Bengal situated in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India in 2020-21.

Methodology: ‘ND’, fed with normal pellet-based diet; ‘HFD’, fed with HFD diet and 10% sucrose water and ‘HFD + LB’, fed with diet same as ’HFD’ group along with 1× 108 CFU of L. brevis (for each animal/day) from 22nd day onwards. At the end of experiment (on 50th day) the body weights, Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels and serum Lipid Profile were measured.

Results: the HFD group showed significantly high FBG levels (203.66 ± 8.73 mg/dL) when compared with the ND group (130± 2 mg/dL) but the FBG levels in HFD + LB group (163.66 ± 4.72 mg/dL) were not as significantly higher as the HFD group. OGTT test revealed L. brevis helped to resist the persistent hyperglycemic effects. It was seen that the levels of lipids like Triglycerides and Total cholesterol in HFD + LB group were in normal range and similar like that of the ND groups (172.22 ± 3.854 mg/dL and 134.89 ± 4.705 mg/dL).

Conclusion: These findings indicate strong association for probiotic use of L. brevis as a potent preventative measure to combat the detrimental metabolic changes.
Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Limonte Christine P. , Pilla Scott J. , de Boer Ian H.
Published: December 2024

This JAMA Insights discusses the evaluation and treatment of chronic kidney disease in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Coupling Multi‐Space Topologies in 2D Ferromagnetic Lattice
Authors: He Zhonglin , Du Wenhui , Dou Kaiying , Dai Ying , Huang Baibiao , Ma Yandong
Published: December 2024

Topology can manifest topological magnetism (e.g., skyrmion and bimeron) in real space and quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) state in momentum space, which has changed the modern conceptions of matter phase. While the topologies in different spaces are widely studied separately, their coexistence and coupling in a single phase are seldom explored. Here, a novel phenomenon is reported that arises from the interaction of topological magnetism and band topology, the multi‐space topology, in 2D ferromagnetic lattice. Based on continuum theory and tight‐binding model, it is revealed that the interconnection between skyrmion/bimeron and QAH state generates distinctive localized chiral bound states (CBSs). With moderating topological magnetism through a magnetic field, the multi‐space topologies accompanied with different CBSs can be reversed, facilitating the coupling of multi‐space topologies. By performing first‐principles and atomic spin model simulations, such multi‐space topologies and their coupling in monolayer Cr2NSb are further demonstrated. These results represent an important step toward the development of multi‐space topological phenomena in 2D lattice.
Ultrahigh Piezoelectricity in Truss‐Based Ferroelectric Ceramics Metamaterials
Authors: Shi Jiahao , Ju Kang , Chen Haoyu , Orsat Valérie , Sasmito Agus P. , Ahmadi Ali , Akbarzadeh Abdolhamid
Published: December 2024

Conventional porous ferroelectric materials sacrifice their piezoelectric constants for improving various figures of merit due to a rapidly decreased dielectric constant. Here, novel truss‐based ferroelectric metamaterials that simultaneously offer ultrahigh piezoelectric constants and ultralow dielectric constants, originating from the unique combination of truss loading states and polarization direction, are discovered. The homogenization method alongside an analytical model is proposed to predict and elucidate their extraordinary properties, while a customized ferroceramic additive manufacturing platform is resorted to fabricate them. Unlike porous ferroelectrics, ultrahigh piezoelectric constants at low relative densities (ρr ≈0.1) are attained. For example, with appropriate scaling, the experimental values of d31, d33, and d42 for a ferroelectric octet truss with ρr = 0.1, can reach 849, −659, and 836 pC N−1, respectively, which are 3.14, 6, and 2 times higher than the counterpart of bulk BaTiO3 ceramics. Combined with the ultralow dielectric constant, extremely high ferroelectric figures of merit, e.g., piezoelectric voltage constant of 11.098 Vm N−1, piezoelectric energy harvesting figure of merit 9422 × 10−12 m2 N−1, and pyroelectric voltage sensitivity of 56.7 × 10−3 m2 C−1, are also observed. The multifunctional ferroelectric metamaterials open new avenues for their applications in self‐powered ultrasensitive accelerometers, high‐performance noncontact sensors, and wearable input devices.
Sodiophilic Zn‐Diamane Ion Rectification Layer Modulated Polypropylene Separators Enable Dendrite‐Free Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Shen Nan , Dai Shuge , Zhou Gaojie , Miao Jingzhong , Hu Zhanwei , Zhi Gang , Li Xueliang , Wang Hui , Kong Dezhi , Xu Tingting , Zhang Zhuangfei , Li Xinjian , Yang Hui Ying , Wang Ye
Published: December 2024

Sodium (Na) metal is regarded as an ideal anode for sodium metal batteries (SMBs) due to its high theoretical specific capacity and low electrochemical potential. However, its utilization is still restricted by the notorious dendrites and unstable solid electrolyte interface (SEI). Herein, a zinc nanoparticle decorated 2D diamond (diamane) modulated commercial polypropylene (Zn‐diamane/PP) separator is dedicated to mitigating these issues for the longevity of sodium metal anodes. Interestingly, the sodiophilic Zn‐diamane/PP separator significantly accelerates the sodium ion mobilization and promotes a uniform flux, thus effectively preventing dendrite growth and enhancing the stability of the SEI layer. A Na||Na symmetric cell with Zn‐diamane/PP separator demonstrates a prolonged lifespan exceeding 5000 h at 1 mA cm−2 with 1 mAh cm−2. Notably, it sustains stability for >1000 h at an ultra‐high current density at 25 mA cm−2 with 1 mAh cm−2. The dendrite‐free deposition morphology and the formation of an inorganic‐rich inner SEI layer have been investigated through comprehensive characterizations and theoretical calculations analysis. Furthermore, a full cell comprising a Na3V2(PO4)3@C cathode, Zn‐diamane/PP separator, and Na metal anode demonstrate a high reversible capacity of 90 mAh g−1 over 500 cycles. These results demonstrate the potential of Zn‐diamane/PP separator for long‐cycle lifespan SMBs.
Ligand Engineering Enables Bifacial PbS All‐QD Homojunction Photodiodes
Authors: Hu Long , Wan Tao , Guan Xinwei , Li Zhi , Mei Tingting , Dong Beining , Gao Liang , Chen Chao , Li Xiaoning , Lin Chun‐Ho , Li Mengyao , Chen Fandi , Su Dawei , Han Zhaojun , Xu Haolan , Huang Shujuan , Peng Shuhua , Wu Tom , Chu Dewei
Published: December 2024

Infrared PbS quantum dot (QD) photodiodes play a vital role in various applications, including photovoltaics, light‐emitting diodes, lasers, and photodetectors. Despite their superior potential, high‐performance all‐QD homojunction photodiodes with bifacial structures have yet to be reported. Here, post‐treatment ligand engineering is successfully employed to precisely tune the doping dipoles of PbS QDs, transitioning them from n‐type, through intrinsic, to p‐type. All‐QD homojunction photodiodes solar cells with a n‐i‐p architecture are constructed by integrating three types of PbS QD layers of 1.37 eV bandgaps with controllable doping dipoles, which delivers a power conversion efficiency of 10.0%, among the highest values reported in PbS all‐QD homojunction solar cells so far. Owing to symmetry all‐QD architecture, bifacial PbS all‐QDs photodiodes, using 1.37 eV bandgap PbS QDs as both n‐type and p‐type charge transport layers and 0.90 eV bandgap PbS QDs as intrinsic light absorber layers, achieved an almost ideal bifactor approaching 93% and decent detectivities of 1.63 × 1011 Jones from ITO illumination and 1.86 × 1011 Jones from silver nanowire (Ag NW) illumination at 1370 nm. Therefore, this work provides a facile approach for the design of bifacial all‐QD homojunction photodiodes, broadening their potential applications in advanced QD optoelectronic systems.
Rapidly Forming Recombinant Miniature Spidroins Hydrogels Composed of Nanofibrils with Tunable Mechanical Properties for Bio 3D Printing and Biomimetic Cellular Scaffolds
Authors: Wang Cong , Zhang Qi , Wu Hanbai , Zhang Shuai , Zhou Xiong , Li Min , Chen Yuhan , Liu Wei , Du Min , Fan Jun , Chen Furong , Hu Jinlian
Published: December 2024

Recombinant spidroins offer numerous possibilities for creating new biomaterials. However, their polymorphic and prone to aggregation characteristics present challenges in both their production and practical application. Here, mutant recombinant spidroins are reported forming hydrogels rapidly and controllably at 37 °C and with visible light irradiation. In the mutant spidroins phenylalanine residues (F) are systematically substituted by tyrosine residues (Y) in repeat motifs of (GGX), which contributes to the self‐assembly of β‐sheet and further formation of amyloid‐like nanofibrils. As expected, micellar/globular spidroins solution converts to spidroins hydrogel composed of nanofibrils network and subsequently further crosslinked by di‐tyrosine. The conformation transformation process is verified by spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and molecular dynamics simulation. Furthermore, the spidroin hydrogels are used as bioink and biomimetic cellular scaffolds according to their good biocompatibility, shear thinning properties, and nanofibril network structure. The findings reveal the structural transformation mechanism of spidroins and expand their applications in biomedical engineering.
Nanocarrier‐Mediated RNA Delivery Platform as a Frontier Strategy for Hepatic Disease Treatment: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Fan Jinhui , Xiao Zhicheng , Dong Yafen , Ye Fei , Qiu Yan , Zhang Chuan , Yin Xiaolan , Li Yi , Wang Tingfang
Published: December 2024

Hepatic diseases cause serious public health problems worldwide, and there is an urgent need to develop effective therapeutic agents. In recent years, significant progress is made in RNA therapy, and RNA molecules, such as mRNAs, siRNAs, miRNAs, and RNA aptamers, are shown to provide significant advantages in the treatment of hepatic diseases. However, the drawbacks of RNAs, such as their poor biological stability, easy degradation by nucleases in vivo, low bioavailability, and low concentrations in target tissues, significantly limit the clinical application of RNA‐based drugs. Therefore, exploring and developing effective nanoscale delivery platforms for RNA therapeutics are of immense value. This review focuses on the different types of hepatic diseases and RNA therapeutics, summarizing various nanoscale delivery platforms and their strengths and weaknesses. Finally, the current status and future prospects of nanoscale delivery systems for RNA therapy are discussed.
Emerging Functional Porous Scaffolds for Liver Tissue Engineering
Authors: Wang Jinglin , Huang Danqing , Chen Dayu , Ren Haozhen , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: December 2024

Liver tissue engineering holds promising in synthesizing or regenerating livers, while the design of functional scaffold remains a challenge. Owing to the intricate simulation of extracellular matrix structure and performance, porous scaffolds have demonstrated advantages in creating liver microstructures and sustaining liver functions. Currently, various methods and processes have been employed to fabricate porous scaffolds, manipulating the properties and morphologies of materials to confer them with unique supportive functions. Additionally, scaffolds must also facilitate tissue growth and deliver cells, possessing therapeutic or regenerative effects. In this review, it is initially outline typical procedures for fabricating porous scaffolds and showcase various morphologies of microstructures. Subsequently, it is delved into the forms of cell loading in porous scaffolds, including scaffold‐based, scaffold‐free, and synergetic or bioassembly approaches. Lastly, the utilization of porous scaffolds in liver diseases, offering significant insights and future implications for liver regeneration research in tissue engineering is explored.
State‐of‐the‐Art Synthesis of Porous Polymer Materials and Their Several Fantastic Biomedical Applications: a Review
Authors: Ahmed Yohannis Wondwosen , Loukanov Alexandre , Tsai Hsieh‐Chih
Published: December 2024

Porous polymers, including hydrogels, covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and hyper crosslinked polymers (HCPs), have become essential in biomedical research for their tunable pore architectures, large surface areas, and functional versatility. This review provides a comprehensive overview of their classification and updated synthesis mechanisms, such as 3D printing, electrospinning, and molecular imprinting. Their pivotal roles in drug delivery, tissue engineering, wound healing, and photodynamic/photothermal therapies, focusing on how pore size, distribution, and architecture impact drug release, cellular interactions, and therapeutic outcomes, are explored. Key challenges, including biocompatibility, mechanical strength, controlled degradation, and scalability, are critically assessed alongside emerging strategies to enhance clinical potential. Finally, recent challenges and future perspectives, emphasizing the broader biomedical applications of porous polymers, are addressed. This work provides valuable insights for advancing next‐generation biomedical innovations through these materials.
Nanozymes and Their Potential Roles in the Origin of Life
Authors: Ma Long , Liang Zimo , Hou Yinyin , Zhang Ruofei , Fan Kelong , Yan Xiyun
Published: December 2024

The origin of life has long been a central scientific challenge, with various hypotheses proposed. The chemical evolution, which supposes that inorganic molecules can transform into organic molecules and subsequent primitive cells, laid the foundation for modern theories. Inorganic minerals are believed to play crucial catalytic roles in the process. However, the harsh reaction conditions of inorganic minerals hinder the accumulation of organic molecules, preventing the efficient transition from inorganic molecules to biomacromolecules. Given the inherent physicochemical properties and enzyme‐like activities, this study proposes that nanozymes, nanomaterials with enzyme‐like activities, act as efficient prebiotic catalysts in the origin of life. This hypothesis is based on the following: First, unlike traditional minerals, nanominerals can catalyze organic synthesis under milder conditions. Second, nanominerals can not only protect biomolecules from radiation damage but also catalyze polymerization reactions to form functional biomacromolecules and further lipid vesicles. More importantly, nanominerals are abundant in terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments. This perspective will systematically discuss the potential roles of nanozymes in the emergence of life based on the functions of minerals and the characteristics of nanozymes. We hope the research on nanozymes and the origin of life will bridge the gap between inorganic precursors and biomolecules under primitive environments.
Removal of Natural Organic Matter Fractions by Kaolin/Fly Ash Ceramic Microfiltration Membrane in Drinking Water: Insights from a Laboratory Scale Application
Authors: Ndzimandze Samkeliso S. , Moyo Welldone , Mahlangu Oranso T. , Muleja Adolph A. , Nkambule Thabo T. I. , Kuvarega Alex T.
Published: December 2024

The high cost of precursor materials has hindered commercialization of ceramic membranes (CM). In this work, a microfiltration ceramic disc (≈50 mm in diameter and 4 mm thick) is prepared from low‐cost materials, kaolin, and fly ash (≈67 and 26 wt.%, respectively) by pressing at 200 bar and calcining at 900 °C. Membrane characterization involved physicochemical properties, NOM removal efficiency, and fouling propensity analysis. Furthermore, the efficiency of the CM is tested on samples collected from four drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs) in KwaZulu‐Natal Province of South Africa. The NOM removal efficiencies ranged from 18.5–33.4% higher than that achieved by the sand filtration step of all the DWTPs. Fluorescence excitation‐emission matrix (FEEM) studies show dominance of terrestrial humic‐like and fulvic‐like NOM fractions in the raw water and are amenable to removal by CM at all the DWTPs (up to 64.7% higher than removal by sand filters at the respective plants). This study demonstrates the utility of ceramic membranes fabricated from rudimentary materials and presents an opportunity to upscale and retrofit the technology to target the removal of NOM fractions at conventional drinking water treatment plants.
Cs2AgBiBr6 Double Perovskite Single Crystal/ CsPbBr3 Perovskite Nanocrystals Heterojunction for High‐Performance X‐Ray Detection
Authors: Ghosh Joydip , Tailor Naveen Kumar , Ghosh Koushik , Jayarathne Jayana , Choudhary Shivani , Crean Carol , Giri P. K. , Satapathi Soumitra , Sellin Paul
Published: December 2024

In this study, the investigation of a Cs2AgBiBr6 single crystal (SC) / CsPbBr3 nanocrystals (NCs) film double perovskite/perovskite type‐II novel heterojunction tailored for superior X‐ray detection applications is presented. One of the main benefits of utilizing such a heterojunction is its built‐in electric potential, which improves charge transport and reduces the dark current in the devices. By casting CsPbBr3 NCs onto polished Cs2AgBiBr6 SC, the Cs2AgBiBr6/CsPbBr3 double perovskite/ perovskite heterojunction is fabricated. The heterojunction X‐ray detector exhibits reduced dark current and increased photocurrent compared to the pristine SC device. This enhancement of photocurrent can be attributed to efficient carrier generation and separation facilitated by appropriate band bending at the type‐II heterojunction interface. The heterojunction device shows an X‐ray sensitivity of 6 µCGy−1 cm−2 at 0 V of applied bias, owing to the built‐in potential across the heterojunction. Remarkably, at a −50 V bias, the sensitivity of the heterojunction device reached 857.8 µCGy−1 cm−2, with a limit of detection of 312 nGy s−1. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations provided further insights, revealing electron transfer from CsPbBr3 to Cs2AgBiBr6, thereby enhancing the X‐ray sensitivity of the heterojunction device. These findings underscore the potential of Cs2AgBiBr6/CsPbBr3 heterojunctions for X‐ray detection and optoelectronic applications.
Layer‐By‐Layer Shear‐Printing of Bulk Mechanoresponsive Photonic Crystals
Authors: Gao Feng , Qiu Junjun , Jiang Xinyu , An Tong , Song Xiaokun , Zhang Manyao , Shi Nan , Yu Wei , Fan Tongxiang , Zhao Qibin
Published: December 2024

Mechanoresponsive photonic crystals (MPCs) exhibit tunable optical properties and hold great promise for a wide range of applications. However, fabricating them in bulk form remains a significant challenge. In this study, a novel approach is presented for producing bulk MPCs with enhanced optical properties. By incorporating shear‐ordering into the 3D molding process, this study successfully fabricates bulk MPCs that display bright, saturated structural colors with 80% reflectance. The bulk MPCs are constructed layer‐by‐layer via successive shear‐printing using colloidal particles embedded in photocurable resins. Each layer is subjected to oscillatory shear facilitated by a modified 3D printing setup. This process creates a highly ordered face‐centered cubic lattice structure throughout the bulk material. The final product exhibits distinct colors on its various faces, depending on the lattice planes exposed at different orientations. The material is highly strain‐resilient, with pronounced color shifting in response to applied stress. A detailed experimental study of the shear‐ordering mechanism and the resulting structures is provided. This method offers an efficient way to fabricate bulk MPCs with optical performance comparable to the best thin films and can be extended to more complex shapes.
A State‐of‐the‐Art Appraisal of Nanomaterials in Microneedles in the Delivery of Therapeutics and Vaccines
Authors: Witika Bwalya Angel , Hutton Aaron , Makoni Pedzisai A. , Donnelly Ryan F.
Published: December 2024

Nanomaterial‐loaded microneedles are a novel development in the fields of medicine and vaccines. Researchers have created extremely effective systems for the targeted and controlled delivery of a variety of bioactive agents by fusing nanomaterials with microneedle platforms. The design and manufacturing processes of nanomaterial‐loaded microneedles are covered herein, along with applications to improve drug stability, bioavailability, and patient adherence. Important preclinical and clinical studies that demonstrate the efficiency of these systems in delivering small molecules, biologics, and vaccines are also covered in the review. In order to direct ongoing research and expedite the clinical translation of this promising technology, important challenges and future directions are identified. This review offers a thorough evaluation of the most recent developments in this quickly developing field of technology.
Novel NO Pincer Type 2‐(5,6‐Dichlorobenzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)phenol and Its Complex of Pt (II): Synthesis, Spectral Characterization, DFT Calculations, Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis Assay, Cytotoxicity, DNA Binding, and Biological Evaluation Study
Authors: Aldulmani Sharah A. , M.A. Alaghaz Abdel‐Nasser , El‐Moselhy Medhat Mohamed , El‐Bohy Salwa A. H.
Published: December 2024

A new novel NO pincer type bezo[d]thiazole ligand, 2‐(5,6‐dichlorobenzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)phenol (HDCBTP) is synthesized through reacting 2‐amino‐4,5‐dichlorobenzenethiol and 2‐hydroxybenzoic acid in 1:1 ratio. Nano‐sized bivalent Pt (II) complex is created and subsequently characterized using various physical methods. The complex structural geometry is validated by employing the density functional theory (DFT) approach, utilizing DMOL3 determinations. Based on the elemental analysis results, the complexes are inferred to follow the overall formula [Pt (DCBTP)2]. Quantum chemical calculations, along with electronic spectra findings, indicate that Pt (II) complex exhibits a square planar configuration. The XRD, EDX, TEM, and AFM analyses of the studied complex unveil distinct and strong diffraction peaks, indicating its crystalline nature and providing evidence of its nano‐sized particle sizes. Viscosity measurements and absorption titration techniques were used to study the interaction between Pt (II) complex and CT‐DNA. The results showed that the complexes were bound to CT‐DNA via a typical intercalation binding mode. The in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of HDCBTP and its Pt (II) complex was inspected against various bacterial and fungal pathogens. The results highlight these compounds as a highly effective fungicides and bactericides. In vitro cytotoxic effects of the formulated complex were explored utilizing PC3 prostate cancer cell lines. According to IC50 and selective index (SI) measurements, it was shown that the complex exhibited higher potency against HePG2 cell lines. Moreover, Pt (II) complex exhibited the capability for triggering DNA damage in HePG2 cells, resulting in dose‐dependent cell apoptosis. Subsequent investigations revealed that complex triggered cell cycle arrest during the S and G2 phases.
Synthesis and Characterization of Polyacrylonitrile Copolymers With Enhanced Flame‐Retardant and Smoke‐Suppressing Properties
Authors: Dong Xue , Miao Jin‐Gen , Li Da‐Wei , Li Lei , Shen Zhi‐Gang , Li Ying‐Cheng
Published: December 2024

An intrinsic flame‐retardant P(AN‐co‐IPADE) copolymer was synthesized via aqueous deposited polymerization, enhancing the thermal stability and flame retardancy of polyacrylonitrile (PAN). Limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were used to reveal significant improvements in flame retardancy and thermal stability due to the integration of isopropenyl‐phosphonic acid dimethyl ester (IPADE). Notably, the copolymer exhibited an LOI value of 31.0% with an IPADE content of just 20.4 wt%, and a remarkable 80% reduction in both the peak heat release rate and total heat release, underscoring its exceptional flame‐retardant properties. The emission of hazardous smoke components, including hydrogen cyanide (HCN), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon monoxide (CO), was effectively mitigated. The flame‐retardant mechanism was explored, and the bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE) of the primary groups within the polymer chains was calculated to understand the pyrolysis process. Complementary analyses using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and pyrolysis‐gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Py/GC–MS) suggest that IPADE contributes to both the gaseous and condensed phases, forming a comprehensive flame‐retardant mechanism.
Stimuli‐Configuring Anisotropic Soft Architectures towards Dynamic Manipulable Photonics
Authors: Wang Xiaoqian , Zheng Zhi‐Gang
Published: December 2024

This review provides a comprehensive examination of stimuli‐configuring anisotropic soft architectures, specifically, stimuli‐responsive liquid crystal (LC) artificial micro‐ and nano‐structures, highlighting their unique properties, recent advancements, and diverse applications toward dynamic manipulable photonics. It begins by introducing the fundamentals of LCs, including their classification, key properties, and theoretical modeling approaches. The paper delves into various stimuli—electric fields, light, temperature, and mechanical forces—that trigger changes in LC behavior, with a particular emphasis on photo‐responsive systems. In‐depth discussions cover electrically driven LC structures, exploring their applications in display technologies and beyond, for example, virtual/augmented reality, holography, and geometric phase optical elements such as lenses, beam shaping and beam steering devices. Light‐driven LC structures are analyzed for their remote‐control capabilities and roles in switchable optical elements and particle manipulation. The review also examines thermo‐responsive and mechanically responsive LC systems, showcasing advanced structures that integrate multiple stimuli for enhanced functionality. Throughout the article, cutting‐edge research and innovative applications are highlighted, demonstrating the significant potential of stimuli‐responsive LC structures in fields such as optics, photonics, sensing, and information processing. This synthesis of current advancements emphasizes the versatility and adaptability of LCs in responding to various external inputs, paving the way for future technological innovations.
High Conductivity in PEDOT:PSS Thin‐Films by Secondary Doping with Superacid Vapor: Mechanisms and Application to Thermoelectrics
Authors: Park Juhyung , Song Jeong Han , Jang Jae Gyu , Kwak Jeonghun
Published: December 2024

Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), a conductive polymer, have attracted attention as promising materials for future electronic applications, owing to its tunable doping level for high electrical conductivity (σ) through simple post‐treatments. A novel post‐treatment method for conventionally doped PEDOT:PSS thin‐films (immersed in methanol) is presented to further enhance σ via doping with the superacid, trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFSA). The origin of the improved σ in PEDOT:PSS thin‐films treated with this dual approach is investigated. The study reveals that the superacid vapor treatment uniquely enhances the lamellar stacking of PEDOT chains and induces vertical phase separation between PEDOT and PSS, leading to improved carrier mobility by a factor of three. This behavior differs from conventional post‐treatments, making the combined methanol immersion and TFSA vapor treatment an effective strategy for achieving a high σ of ≈2053 S cm−1, making these films ideal candidates for various polymer‐based electronics. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate that the thermoelectric power factor of PEDOT:PSS subjected to secondary doping with superacid vapor exhibits a threefold enhancement (104.2 µW m−1 K−2) compared to samples treated solely with methanol (29.7 µW m−1 K−2). This post‐treatment method and the resulting insights will advance the understanding of doping mechanisms and charge transport in conductive polymers.
Absence of Functional Autoantibodies Targeting Angiotensin II Receptor Type 1 and Endothelin‐1 Type A Receptor in Circulation and Purified IgG From Patients With Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: van Oostveen Wieke M. , Hoekstra Eva M. , Levarht E. W. Nivine , Kotliar Ilana B. , Sakmar Thomas P. , Toes René E. M. , de Vries‐Bouwstra Jeska K. , Heitman Laura H. , Fehres Cynthia M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare but severe autoimmune disease characterized by immune dysregulation, fibrosis, and vasculopathy. Although previous studies have highlighted the presence of functional autoantibodies targeting the angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1) and endothelin‐1 type A receptor (ETAR), leading to autoantibody‐mediated receptor stimulation and subsequent activation of endothelial cells (ECs), a comprehensive understanding of the direct interaction between these autoantibodies and their receptors is currently lacking. Moreover, existing data confirming the presence of these autoantibodies in SSc often rely on similar methodologies and assays. Our aim was to replicate previous findings and to investigate the functional effects of IgG derived from patients with SSc (SSc IgG) on AT1 and ETAR signaling, the downstream EC response, and the presence of AT1‐binding autoantibodies in circulation.

Methods

Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and cytokine enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, alongside a real‐time cell analyzer, were used to assess receptor‐specific functional characteristics of purified SSc IgG (n = 18). Additionally, a novel protein capture assay using solubilized epitope‐tagged AT1 was developed to detect AT1‐binding autoantibodies in plasma samples from patients with SSc (n = 28) and healthy donors (n = 14).

Results

No evidence for EC activation in an AT1‐ or ETAR‐dependent manner was revealed. Furthermore, stimulation with SSc IgG did not induce receptor activation or alter G protein‐coupled receptor signaling on agonist stimulation in a model with receptor overexpression. Lastly, no AT1‐binding autoantibodies were detected in plasma samples from patients with SSc when using epitope‐tagged solubilized AT1.

Conclusion

Overall, our study did not provide evidence to support the presence of AT1‐ or ETAR‐activating autoantibodies in purified SSc IgG or AT1‐binding autoantibodies in the circulation of patients with SSc.
Thermosensory Roles of G Protein‐Coupled Receptors and Other Cellular Factors in Animals
Authors: Ohnishi Kohei , Sokabe Takaaki
Published: December 2024

In this review, we introduce the concept of “dual thermosensing mechanisms,” highlighting the functional collaboration between G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) and transient receptor potential (TRP) channels that enable sophisticated cellular thermal responsiveness. GPCRs have been implicated in thermosensory processes, with recent findings identifying several candidates across species, including mammals, fruit flies, and nematodes. In many cases, these GPCRs work in conjunction with another class of thermosensors, TRP channels, offering insights into the complex mechanisms underlying thermosensory signaling. We examine how GPCRs function as thermosensors and how their signaling regulates cellular thermosensation, illustrating the complexity of thermosensory systems. Understanding these dual thermosensory mechanisms would advance our comprehension of cellular thermosensation and its regulatory pathways.
Stakeholder Green Pressure and Enviropreneurial Marketing: Insights From Japanese SMEs
Authors: Trivedi Rohit H. , Patel Jayesh , Fukukawa Kyoko
Published: December 2024

Despite the recent growth in research on analysing the influence of stakeholders' green pressure on firm performance, our understanding of the subject seems limited, especially regarding the positive and negative influence of many internal and external stakeholders and the mediating roles of environmental orientation and commitment. Analysing primary data from 317 Japanese SMEs, we found that environmental orientation has negative while environmental commitment positively influences firm performance. Besides, the findings also show that green pressure from regulators, competitors, non‐governmental organisations (NGOs) and employees significantly influences the market and financial performance, followed by a discussion of relevant theoretical and practical implications.
The Need to Increase Help‐Seeking for Eating Disorders in General and Binge‐Eating Disorder Specifically: Commentary on Ali et al.'s (2024) Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Lydecker Janet A.
Published: December 2024

Ali et al.'s (2024) systematic review and meta‐analysis updated a previous meta‐analysis on the gap between the need for eating disorder treatment and rates of seeking and receiving eating disorder treatment. They found that less than one‐third of individuals with eating disorders sought help for their eating disorder, which was an improvement of only 8% over more than a decade. This updated analysis makes it apparent that we need to dedicate research and resources to meeting this treatment need. Building on this work, this commentary reviews changes in help‐seeking behaviors, particularly online help‐seeking. The commentary also discusses binge‐eating disorder (BED) help‐seeking because the addition of BED as a diagnosis occurred in the time between the original and updated meta‐analysis. Barriers to seeking eating disorder treatment, including identifying behaviors as indicative of an eating disorder and problematic, appear pronounced among individuals with BED. The commentary concludes by highlighting that it is essential to direct research and policy efforts along multiple pathways to close the gap between those who need and those who seek eating disorder treatment.