bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trend during Growth, Development and Quality Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) Fruits: A Review
Authors: Pandey Shiwanand , Tripathi Vivek Kumar , Sharma Ankur , Trivedi Himanshu
Published: March 2023

The trends in growth, development and quality attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) included changes observed during growth and development, namely fruiting behavior, physical properties and biochemical components of the ber fruit at different stages of growth and development. Flowering began in mid-September and ended in mid-November with the peak of the flowering period in mid-October. While the fruit setting was between the third week of September to the first week of December, but the peak fruit initiation period was the last week of September to mid-October. During fruit growth, development and yield attribute the percentage of fruit drop and retention also changes. Ber fruits were harvested in five times collections and the peak yield period was the first week of March. In the physical changes, the study revealed that length, width, weight, volume, pulp weight, and seed weight increased from fruit set to maturity at all stages of growth and development except for specific weight, which first increased in month of mid-November and then decreased when the fruits continued in the harvest phase. The biochemical changes in fruit in terms of total sugars, ascorbic acid, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars and total sugars increased steadily from fruit set to maturity, when titratable acidity showed a trend decreasing during fruit growth and development.
Effect of Planting Patterns and Mulch Types on Weed Growth and Yield of Sweet Corn and Red Bean
Authors: Nurjanah Uswatun , Memed  , Setyowati Nanik , Muktamar Zainal , Suprijono Eko , Turmudi Edhi
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to determine the best cropping pattern and type of mulch in the intercropping system of sweet corn and red beans in organic farming systems. The research was conducted in Air Duku Village, Bengkulu at 1054 m above sea level. The experimental design was RCBD with two factors. The first factor was cropping patterns consisted of monocultures of sweet corn, monocultures red bean, and intercropping of sweet corn and red beans. The second factor was organic mulch types consisting of rice straw, coffee husk, rice husk mulch, and control (without mulch). Data were analyzed using an analysis of variance (ANOVA) (α= 5%). The treatment means were separated by LSD. Plant height, plant dry weight, husked cob weight, unhusked cob weight, cob husked weight per plot was measured for sweet corn plants, while red bean plants were assessed for plant height, the number of seeds, seed weight, seed weight per plot, and weeds were observed for weight dry. Study resulted intercropping can suppress weeds on red beans but not in sweet corn. Sweet corn-red bean intercropping suppressed weed growth, and mulch application of rice straw and rice husks effectively controlled weeds. The growth and yield of sweet corn planted in intercropping are equivalent to that grown in monoculture. Red-beans has higher yield in monoculture than intercropping even though the growth is not different between the two crops. This result is important in weed manejemen in organic farming practice.
The Efficacy of Different Mulching with Spacing on Growth and Yield of Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) cv Chandler
Authors: Meena Ram Lakhan , Bunker Raja Ram , Ram R. B. , Meena D. C. , Meena Ashok Kumar , Meena Suresh Kumar , Salvi Anil
Published: March 2023

An experiment was conducted at the Horticultural Research Farm of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow. The experiment was performed to find out the most suitable mulching material and an ideal spacing for straw berry cultivation under Lucknow conditions. The experiment was laid out in a Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications. The treatments comprised of three mulching materials viz. paddy straw, black polyethylene, and transparent polyethylene) with three spacings (30 x 15 cm and 30 x 20 cm and 30 x 30). On the basis of the statistical data, it is concluded that spacing of 30 x 30 cm with black polyethylene mulch was found to be the best in terms of plant growth viz. plant height, spread of plants, Number of flowers per plant, Number of leaves per plant, Fruit weight, Fruit length, Fruit diameter, Specific gravity of Fruit, and Fruit yield per plant, Fruit yield per plot, Fruit yield per plant and leaf area.However, there was slight difference in quality parameters among different treatments.The data recorded was significant difference in number of leaves per plant. Spacing 30x30 cm treatment S3 gave the maximum number of leaves per plant (19.17), which was statistically similar (18.66) to at 30x20 cm spacing, while 30x15 cm spacing gave the minimum number of leaves per plant (17.89).Different mulching showed significant differences on the number of leaves per plant. The maximum number of leaves per plant was recorded in (21.23) from black polythene mulch (M2) which was closely followed treatment (M3) and maximum number of leaves per plant was recorded in (15.79) M1 (Transparent polythene mulch).
Response of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.) cv. Pusa Ruby
Authors: Salvi Anil , Bunker Raja Ram , Kumar Sanjay , Kumawat Shankar Lal , Meena Ram Lakhan , Meena Ashok Kumar , Jangid Ashish Raja , Poonam
Published: March 2023

The present investigation entitles “Response of integrated nutrient management on growth of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.) cv. Pusa Ruby” was carried out at department of Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh), during the year 2020-21. The treatment comprised of twelve treatments i.e., T1 Control (No treatment), T2 RDF (100%), T3 FYM (100%), T4 Azotobacter (100%), T5 Azospirillum (100%), T6 RDF + FYM (50% each), T7 RDF + Azotobacter (50% each), T8 RDF + Azospirillum (50% each), T9 FYM + Azotobacter (50% each), T10 FYM + Azospirillum (50% each), T11 Azotobacter + Azospirillum (50% each) and T12 RDF + FYM + Azotobacter + Azospirillum (25% each). The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. The results indicated that among maximum plant height ware recorded (16.15, 22.11, 26.59 and 30.53 cm), respectively, in treatment T12 at 30, 60, 90 and 120 DAT. The maximum number of branches were recorded (4.36 5.79, 6.31 and 7.04) in treatment T12 at 30, 60, 90 and 120 DAT. Minimum number of days required for flower blooming (32.44) in T12. A maximum number of flowers per plant (39.34) were recorded at T12 and also maximum number of clusters per plant was recorded (9.78) in T12.
Nutrient Status of Soil and Farm Yard Manure (FYM) under Different Agro-Climatic Regions of Maharashtra
Authors: Kale R. V. , Takawale P. S. , Jade S. S. , Bahulikar R. A.
Published: March 2023

Aim: To gain maximum crop production from a unit area, soil health is one of the major components. It is determined based on the nutritional availability and other parameters like pH, EC, organic carbon, etc. The reports on soil nutrients help farmers in fertilizer application to optimize the yields. The values of these parameters vary from region, soil type, agro-climatic zones, crop, etc. To maintain soil fertility application of organic source of fertilizer such as, FYM plays an important role. It is not only a good source of nutrients but also increases water-holding capacity, soil organic matter, soil physical properties, etc. The study was conducted with an objective to assess nutrient status of soil and FYM from various agro-climatic regions of Maharashtra. 

Methodology: Maharashtra state is divided into nine different agro-climatic regions. The study was conducted to understand the region-wise variability in the nutritional composition of both soil and FYM in Maharashtra during the year 2020-21.  Samples of soils and dried FYM were collected from farmer’s fields from five agro-climatic regions of Maharashtra i.e., Western Maharashtra, Northern Maharashtra, Marathwada, Vidharbha, and Konkan. The samples were analyzed for various parameters at BAL-Chemical laboratory, BAIF Central Research Station, Urulikanchan.

Results: The analysis reports of soil samples revealed that soils of the Western Maharashtra region showed maximum values for N, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn whereas, soil samples from the Vidharbha region were having high values for P and K content as compared to other regions. The soil samples from the Konkan region showed low nutrients availability than other regions. The soil pH of different agro-climatic regions ranged from 6.3 to 9.0. Similarly, FYM samples of the Western Maharashtra region showed maximum values for N, P, K, Fe, Mn, and Zn content whereas, samples of the Marathwada region were comparatively low in all nutrients and organic carbon content. PCA biplot of macro and micro elements of soil and FYM nutrients revealed geographical/spatial structuring based on nutrient content.
Patterns of Refractive Errors among Medical Students at the University of Zambia School of Medicine
Authors: Serenje Mulubwa , Muma Kangwa I. M. , Mutoloki Elijah M.
Published: March 2023

Background: Uncorrected refractive error is one of the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness world-over. The distribution and pattern of presentation is variable depending on various factors. Regardless of the type, refractive errors are easily correctable with spectacles if diagnosed early.

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the pattern of refractive errors among medical students at University of Zambia - School of Medicine.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the University Teaching Hospitals-Eye Hospital involving Master of Medicine, Master of Surgery (MBChB) students from third to seventh year of study at University of Zambia - School of Medicine, Ridgeway campus between October 2021 and March 2022. A total of 210 participants were recruited in the study. Subjects had non-cycloplegic autorefraction combined with a researcher administered questionnaire. Spherical equivalents (SE) ≥ - 0.50D were determined as myopia; SE of ≥ + 0.50D hyperopia and ≥ -0.50D cylinder as astigmatism. Statistical analysis was carried out using Stata version 13.0.

Results: One hundred and forty-one (67.1%) subjects had a form of refractive error; 56.0%, 31.2% and 12.8% of them were astigmats, myopes or hyperopes, respectively. The prevalence of ametropia was 65.0 % in females and 69.0 % in males. Minus spherical errors ranged from -0.25 to -5.00D and plus spherical errors ranged from +0.25 to +3.00D. The mean spherical equivalent for the group was -0.45D. Parental history of refractive error was significantly associated with diagnosis of refractive error (p=0.001) while age and gender were not (p = 0.428 and 0.530, respectively). The majority (68.6%) of participants were not aware of their refractive error.

Conclusion: The prevalence of refractive errors among medical students was high, with astigmatism being the most common type. The majority of those found with refractive error were not aware of the diagnosis.
Microwave‐Induced Rapid Synthesis of MoS2@Cellulose Composites as an Efficient Electrode Material for Quasi‐Solid‐State Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Iqbal Muzahir , Saykar Nilesh G. , Mahapatra Santosh kumar
Published: March 2023

Transition‐metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are highly desired for energy‐storage devices due to their intrinsic layered structure, huge surface area, and the large number of active sites. However, the TMDs fail to reach their potential due to restacking of 2D layered structures that remains a major technological hurdle. Herein, MoS2 nanosheets and cellulose fiber binary composite (MoS2@Cellulose) prepared by the microwave‐assisted technique are demonstrated as an electrode material for supercapacitor application. The prepared material are tested in symmetric and asymmetric all solid‐state device assemblies. It is found that the quasi‐solid‐state symmetric and quasi‐solid‐state asymmetric supercapacitors exhibited remarkably higher specific capacitance of ≈294 and ≈177 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1, respectively, than their counterpart. Furthermore, the symmetric and asymmetric devices deliver excellent energy densities of ≈40.84 and ≈42.67 Wh kg−1 while maintaining the power density of 400 and 791.81 W kg−1, respectively, and outstanding cyclic stability. The cellulose entanglement causes a reduction in the aggregation and restacking of MoS2, which may improve the electrochemical performance of the supercapacitor. Herein this research, a pathway is provided to create an efficient energy‐storage system using 2D materials with sustainable cellulose.
Low‐Velocity Impact Response Analysis of Functionally Graded Piezoelectric Plates Using Finite‐Element Method and a Two‐Degrees‐of‐Freedom Spring‐Mass Model
Authors: Mehrdad Ehsan , Feli Saeid , Das Raj
Published: March 2023

The study focuses on the low‐velocity impact response of functionally graded piezoelectric plates. The effective material properties are determined using the rule of mixture and power law model. The kinematics of the plates is modeled by the first‐order shear deformation theory, and coupled governing equations of the plates are formulated using Hamilton's principle and Maxwell's law. A set of time‐dependent equations, extracted by applying the finite‐element method, is solved by the fourth‐order Runge–Kutta method. A linearized form of Hertz's contact law and a two‐degrees‐of‐freedom spring‐mass system are incorporated to find the contact force under the impact event. Numerical results are verified by comparing with the available literature data. The impact response of the plates constituted of different volume fractions and slenderness ratios in both simply supported and clamped boundary conditions are evaluated under different impact conditions. Based on the results of the present study, it is found that the volume fraction of the piezoelectric components, impact condition, in‐plane dimensions, and the plate slenderness ratio play significant roles in the impact behavior of the plates. Eventually, it is found that the applied electric voltage is not a notable factor in determining the impact response of the plates.
Diffraction‐Based Strategy for Monitoring Topographical Features Fabricated by Direct Laser Interference Patterning
Authors: Schröder Nikolai , Fischer Christoph , Soldera Marcos , Voisiat Bogdan , Lasagni Andrés Fabián
Published: March 2023

Process monitoring in laser‐based manufacturing has become a forward‐looking strategy for industrial‐scale laser machines to increase process reliability, efficiency, and economic profit. Moreover, monitoring techniques are successfully used in laser surface texturing workstations to improve and guarantee the quality of the produced workpieces by analyzing the resulting surface topography. Herein, dot‐like periodic surface structures are fabricated on stainless steel samples by direct laser interference patterning (DLIP) using a 70 ps‐pulsed laser system at an operating wavelength of 532 nm. A scatterometry‐based measurement device is utilized to indirectly determine the mean depth and spatial period of the produced topography by analyzing the recorded diffraction patterns. As a result, the average depth and the spatial period of the dot‐like structures can be estimated with a relative error below 15% and 2%, respectively. This new process monitoring approach enables a significant improvement in quality assurance in DLIP processing.
Lower‐Voltage‐Driven Deformable Soft Electrothermal Actuators with Embedded Liquid Metal EGaIn
Authors: Zhang Zhengyan , Bu Fan , Cheng E. , Yang Chao , Zhang Zhansheng , Hu Ning
Published: March 2023

In recent years, soft electrothermal actuators (ETAs) with low voltage drives have been applied in the field of human‐machine interface (iHMI) because of their safety and low power consumption. However, great challenges remain for achieving high‐performance, low‐cost and low‐voltage ETAs manufacturing. Herein, an ETA embedded with a conductive circuit fabricated using the liquid metal of eutectic gallium‐indium alloy (EGaIn), was developed using the 3D printing technology. Resistance stability, transmittance (92.1%), and heat generation capacity (246 °C at 1.484 V) of the ETAs were investigated to evaluate its performance. when the thickness ratio is 10:1, and the length‐width is 8:1, the ETA with U‐shaped conductive circuit structures shows higher bending performance. Three different categories of deformative structures (S‐shaped, flower‐shaped, and bridge‐shaped) were designed via planning the PI position of ETAs to investigate the deformation possibility of multiple structural deformations of ETA. Finally, a flexible smart gripper consisting of five ETAs was developed to demonstrate its potential application. Our study demonstrates that the developed ETA has high heat production capacity, high resistance stability and excellent bending performance at low voltage drives.
Stabilizing Redox‐Active Hexaazatriphenylene in a 2D Conductive Metal–Organic Framework for Improved Lithium Storage Performance
Authors: Yin Jiacheng , Li Na , Liu Ming , Li Zhigang , Wang Xuemin , Cheng Mingren , Zhong Ming , Li Wei , Xu Yunhua , Bu Xian‐He
Published: March 2023

Organic redox‐active materials are promising electrode candidates for lithium‐ion batteries by virtue of their designable structure and cost‐effectiveness. However, their poor electrical conductivity and high solubility in organic electrolytes limit the device's performance and practical applications. Herein, the π‐conjugated nitrogen‐containing heteroaromatic molecule hexaazatriphenylene (HATN) is strategically embedded with redox‐active centers in the skeleton of a Cu‐based 2D conductive metal–organic framework (2D c‐MOF) to optimize the lithium (Li) storage performance of organic electrodes, which delivers improved specific capacity (763 mAh g−1 at 300 mA g−1), long‐term cycling stability (≈90% capacity retention after 600 cycles at 300 mA g−1), and excellent rate performance. The correlation of experimental and computational results confirms that this high Li storage performance derives from the maximum number of active sites (CN sites in the HATN unit and CO sites in the CuO4 unit), favorable electrical conductivity, and efficient mass transfer channels. This strategy of integrating multiple redox‐active moieties into the 2D c‐MOF opens up a new avenue for the design of high‐performance electrode materials.
Nonvolatile Magnetoelectric Switching of Magnetic Tunnel Junctions with Dipole Interaction
Authors: Chen Aitian , Peng Ren‐Ci , Fang Bin , Yang Tiannan , Wen Yan , Zheng Dongxing , Zhang Chenhui , Liu Chen , Li Zibin , Li Peisen , Li Yan , Zhao Yonggang , Nan Ce‐Wen , Qiu Ziqiang , Chen Long‐Qing , Zhang Xi‐Xiang
Published: March 2023

The magnetoelectric effect is technologically appealing because of its ability to manipulate magnetism using an electric field rather than magnetic field or current, thus providing a promising solution for the development of energy‐efficient spintronics. Although 180° magnetization switching is vital to spintronic devices, the achievement of 180° magnetization switching via magnetoelectric coupling is still a fundamental challenge. Herein, voltage‐driven full resistance switching of a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) with dipole interaction on a ferroelectric substrate through switchable parallel/antiparallel magnetization alignment is demonstrated. Parallel magnetization alignment along the y direction is obtained under a bias magnetic field. By rotating the magnetic easy axis via strain‐mediated magnetoelectric coupling, the parallel magnetizations in the MTJ reorient to the x axis with opposite paths because of dipole interaction, thus resulting in antiparallel alignment. Moreover, this voltage switching of MTJs is nonvolatile owing to variations in dipole interaction and can be well understood via phase field simulations. The results provide an avenue to realize electrical switching of MTJs and are significant for exploring energy‐efficient spintronic devices.
Additive Manufacturing of Engineered Living Materials with Bio‐Augmented Mechanical Properties and Resistance to Degradation
Authors: Altin‐Yavuzarslan Gokce , Brooks Sierra M. , Yuan Shuo‐Fu , Park James O. , Alper Hal S. , Nelson Alshakim
Published: March 2023

Engineered living materials (ELMs) combine living cells with polymeric matrices to yield unique materials with programmable functions. While the cellular platform and the polymer network determine the material properties and applications, there are still gaps in the ability to seamlessly integrate the biotic (cellular) and abiotic (polymer) components into singular materials, then assemble them into devices and machines. Herein, the additive‐manufacturing of ELMs wherein bioproduction of metabolites from the encapsulated cells enhanced the properties of the surrounding matrix is demonstrated. First, aqueous resins are developed comprising bovine serum albumin (BSA) and poly(ethylene glycol diacrylate) (PEGDA) with engineered microbes for vat photopolymerization to create objects with a wide array of 3D form factors. The BSA‐PEGDA matrix afforded hydrogels that are mechanically stiff and tough for use in load‐bearing applications. Second, the continuous in situ production of l‐DOPA, naringenin, and betaxanthins from the engineered cells encapsulated within the BSA‐PEGDA matrix is demonstrated. These microbial metabolites bioaugmented the properties of the BSA‐PEGDA matrix by enhancing the stiffness (l‐DOPA) or resistance to enzymatic degradation (betaxanthin). Finally, the assembly of the 3D printed ELM components into mechanically functional bolts and gears to showcase the potential to create functional ELMs for synthetic living machines is demonstrated.
Nanoparticle‐Mediated STING Activation for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Li Yongjuan , Li Xinyan , Yi Jinmeng , Cao Yongjian , Qin Zhihai , Zhong Zhiyuan , Yang Weijing
Published: March 2023

As the first line of host defense against pathogenic infections, innate immunity plays a key role in antitumor immunotherapy. The cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase (cGAS)‐stimulator of interferon genes (STING) (cGAS‐STING) pathway has attracted much attention because of the secretion of various proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Many STING agonists have been identified and applied into preclinical or clinical trials for cancer immunotherapy. However, the fast excretion, low bioavailability, nonspecificity, and adverse effects of the small molecule STING agonists limit their therapeutic efficacy and in vivo application. Nanodelivery systems with appropriate size, charge, and surface modification are capable of addressing these dilemmas. In this review, the mechanism of the cGAS‐STING pathway is discussed and the STING agonists, focusing on nanoparticle‐mediated STING therapy and combined therapy for cancers, are summarized. Finally, the future direction and challenges of nano‐STING therapy are expounded, emphasizing the pivotal scientific problems and technical bottlenecks and hoping to provide general guidance for its clinical application.
Ultrasmall Cortex Moutan Nanoclusters for the Therapy of Pneumonia and Colitis
Authors: Li Yuan , Liu Xiangmei , Zheng Yufeng , Zhang Yu , Li Zhaoyang , Cui Zhenduo , Jiang Hui , Zhu Shengli , Wu Shuilin
Published: March 2023

Infectious pneumonia and colitis are hard to be treated due to tissue infection, mucosal immune disorders, and dysbacteriosis. Although conventional nanomaterials can eliminate infection, they also damage normal tissues and intestinal flora. Herein, this work reports bactericidal nanoclusters formed through self‐assembly for efficient treatment of infectious pneumonia and enteritis. The ultrasmall (about 2.3 nm) cortex moutan nanoclusters (CMNCs) has excellent antibacterial, antiviral, and immune regulation activity. The formation of nanoclusters is analyzed from the molecular dynamics mainly through the binding between polyphenol structures through hydrogen bonding and ππ stacking interaction. CMNCs have enhanced tissue and mucus permeability ability compared with natural CM. CMNCs precisely targeted bacteria due to polyphenol‐rich surface structure and inhibited broad spectrum of bacteria. Besides, they killed H1N1 virus mainly through the inhibition of the neuraminidase. These CMNCs are effective in treating infectious pneumonia and enteritis relative to natural CM. In addition, they can be used for adjuvant colitis treatment by protecting colonic epithelium and altering the composition of gut microbiota. Therefore, CMNCs showed excellent application and clinical translation prospects in the treatment of immune and infectious diseases.
Modular Synthesis of Semiconducting Graft Copolymers to Achieve “Clickable” Fluorescent Nanoparticles with Long Circulation and Specific Cancer Targeting
Authors: Creamer Adam , Fiego Alessandra Lo , Agliano Alice , Prados‐Martin Lino , Høgset Håkon , Najer Adrian , Richards Daniel A. , Wojciechowski Jonathan P. , Foote James E. J. , Kim Nayoung , Monahan Amy , Tang Jiaqing , Shamsabadi André , Rochet Léa N. C. , Thanasi Ioanna A. , de la Ballina Laura R. , Rapley Charlotte L. , Turnock Stephen , Love Elizabeth A. , Bugeon Laurence , Dallman Margaret J. , Heeney Martin , Kramer‐Marek Gabriela , Chudasama Vijay , Fenaroli Federico , Stevens Molly M.
Published: March 2023

Semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (SPNs) are explored for applications in cancer theranostics because of their high absorption coefficients, photostability, and biocompatibility. However, SPNs are susceptible to aggregation and protein fouling in physiological conditions, which can be detrimental for in vivo applications. Here, a method for achieving colloidally stable and low‐fouling SPNs is described by grafting poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) onto the backbone of the fluorescent semiconducting polymer, poly(9,9′‐dioctylfluorene‐5‐fluoro‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole), in a simple one‐step substitution reaction, postpolymerization. Further, by utilizing azide‐functionalized PEG, anti‐human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) antibodies, antibody fragments, or affibodies are site‐specifically “clicked” onto the SPN surface, which allows the functionalized SPNs to specifically target HER2‐positive cancer cells. In vivo, the PEGylated SPNs are found to have excellent circulation efficiencies in zebrafish embryos for up to seven days postinjection. SPNs functionalized with affibodies are then shown to be able to target HER2 expressing cancer cells in a zebrafish xenograft model. The covalent PEGylated SPN system described herein shows great potential for cancer theranostics.
Additively Manufactured Ferroelectric Particulate Composites for Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Tsikriteas Zois Michail , Heylen Rachel A. , Jindal Swati , Mancuso Elena , Li Zihe , Khanbareh Hamideh
Published: March 2023

A polarized ferroelectric material can initiate the micro‐electrolysis of water molecules which leads to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in an aqueous solution resulting in selective bacteria killing. This study presents the fabrication, characterization, and antimicrobial performance of poled ferroelectric particulate composites. Barium calcium zirconate titanate (BCZT) micro‐powder is synthesized by a solid‐state reaction and mechanically mixed with polycaprolactone (PCL) to be subsequently fed into the 3D bioprinter for the fabrication of porous PCL‐BCZT structures at four different ceramic loadings (0, 10, 20, 30 wt%). For the examination of material's capacity to handle extremely high contamination, the composites are exposed to a high inoculum of bacteria (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922) ≈70% of E. coli degradation is recorded at the end of 15 min without any external intervention. The surface selective bacterial degradation can be attributed to the generated reactive oxygen species, the large surface area of the porous samples and polymer matrix's hydrophobic nature, behavior which can be reflected in the composites with 30 wt% of BCZT loading exhibiting the best antimicrobial performance among the other state‐of‐the‐art ferroelectrics. Overall, these results indicate that the poled composites have a great potential as antimicrobial materials and surfaces.
Bio‐Inspired Multiscale Design for Strong and Tough Biological Ionogels
Authors: Cao Kaiyue , Zhu Ying , Zheng Zihao , Cheng Wanke , Zi Yifei , Zeng Suqing , Zhao Dawei , Yu Haipeng
Published: March 2023

Structure design provides an effective solution to develop advanced soft materials with desirable mechanical properties. However, creating multiscale structures in ionogels to obtain strong mechanical properties is challenging. Here, an in situ integration strategy for producing a multiscale‐structured ionogel (M‐gel) via ionothermal‐stimulated silk fiber splitting and moderate molecularization in the cellulose‐ions matrix is reported. The produced M‐gel shows a multiscale structural superiority comprised of microfibers, nanofibrils, and supramolecular networks. When this strategy is used to construct a hexactinellid inspired M‐gel, the resultant biomimetic M‐gel shows excellent mechanical properties including elastic modulus of 31.5 MPa, fracture strength of 6.52 MPa, toughness reaching 1540 kJ m−3, and instantaneous impact resistance of 3.07 kJ m−1, which are comparable to those of most previously reported polymeric gels and even hardwood. This strategy is generalizable to other biopolymers, offering a promising in situ design method for biological ionogels that can be expanded to more demanding load‐bearing materials requiring greater impact resistance.
Preparation of Tough, Binder‐Free, and Self‐Supporting LiFePO4 Cathode by Using Mono‐Dispersed Ultra‐Long Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes for High‐Rate Performance Li‐Ion Battery
Authors: Guo Mingyi , Cao Zengqiang , Liu Yukang , Ni Yuxiang , Chen Xianchun , Terrones Mauricio , Wang Yanqing
Published: March 2023

Low‐contents/absence of non‐electrochemical activity binders, conductive additives, and current collectors are a concern for improving lithium‐ion batteries' fast charging/discharging performance and developing free‐standing electrodes in the aspects of flexible/wearable electronic devices. Herein, a simple yet powerful fabricating method for the massive production of mono‐dispersed ultra‐long single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone solution, benefiting from the electrostatic dipole interaction and steric hindrance of dispersant molecules, is reported. These SWCNTs form a highly efficient conductive network to firmly fix LiFePO4 (LFP) particles in the electrode at low contents of 0.5 wt% as conductive additives. The binder‐free LFP/SWCNT cathode delivers a superior rate capacity of 161.5 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C and 130.2 mAh g−1 at 5 C, with a high‐rate capacity retention of 87.4% after 200 cycles at 2 C. The self‐supporting LFP/SWCNT cathode shows excellent mechanical properties, which can withstand at least 7.2 MPa stress and 5% strain, allowing the fabrication of high mass loading electrodes with thicknesses up to 39.1 mg cm−2. Such self‐supporting electrodes display conductivities up to 1197 S m−1 and low charge‐transfer resistance of 40.53 Ω, allowing fast charge delivery and enabling near‐theoretical specific capacities.
Controlling Isomerization of Photoswitches to Modulate 2D Logic‐in‐Memory Devices by Organic–Inorganic Interfacial Strategy
Authors: Duan Yongli , Song Miaomiao , Sun Fanxi , Xu Yi , Shi Fanfan , Wang Hong , Zheng Yonghao , He Chao , Liu Xilin , Wei Chen , Deng Xu , Chen Longquan , Liu Fucai , Wang Dongsheng
Published: March 2023

Logic‐in‐memory devices are a promising and powerful approach to realize data processing and storage driven by electrical bias. Here, an innovative strategy is reported to achieve the multistage photomodulation of 2D logic‐in‐memory devices, which is realized by controlling the photoisomerization of donor–acceptor Stenhouse adducts (DASAs) on the surface of graphene. Alkyl chains with various carbon spacer lengths (n = 1, 5, 11, and 17) are introduced onto DASAs to optimize the organic–inorganic interfaces: 1) Prolonging the carbon spacers weakens the intermolecular aggregation and promotes isomerization in the solid state. 2) Too long alkyl chains induce crystallization on the surface and hinder the photoisomerization. Density functional theory calculation indicates that the photoisomerization of DASAs on the graphene surface is thermodynamically promoted by increasing the carbon spacer lengths. The 2D logic‐in‐memory devices are fabricated by assembling DASAs onto the surface. Green light irradiation increases the drain–source current (Ids) of the devices, while heat triggers a reversed transfer. The multistage photomodulation is achieved by well‐controlling the irradiation time and intensity. The strategy based on the dynamic control of 2D electronics by light integrates molecular programmability into the next generation of nanoelectronics.
Synthetic Ionizable Colloidal Drug Aggregates Enable Endosomal Disruption
Authors: Donders Eric N. , Slaughter Kai V. , Dank Christian , Ganesh Ahil N. , Shoichet Brian K. , Lautens Mark , Shoichet Molly S.
Published: March 2023

Colloidal drug aggregates enable the design of drug‐rich nanoparticles; however, the efficacy of stabilized colloidal drug aggregates is limited by entrapment in the endo‐lysosomal pathway. Although ionizable drugs are used to elicit lysosomal escape, this approach is hindered by toxicity associated with phospholipidosis. It is hypothesized that tuning the pKa of the drug would enable endosomal disruption while avoiding phospholipidosis and minimizing toxicity. To test this idea, 12 analogs of the nonionizable colloidal drug fulvestrant are synthesized with ionizable groups to enable pH‐dependent endosomal disruption while maintaining bioactivity. Lipid‐stabilized fulvestrant analog colloids are endocytosed by cancer cells, and the pKa of these ionizable colloids influenced the mechanism of endosomal and lysosomal disruption. Four fulvestrant analogs—those with pKa values between 5.1 and 5.7—disrupted endo‐lysosomes without measurable phospholipidosis. Thus, by manipulating the pKa of colloid‐forming drugs, a tunable and generalizable strategy for endosomal disruption is established.
Computational Analysis of Metal Contact on Bi2O2Se with Se Surface Vacancies
Authors: Youn Sukhyeong , Chang Jiwon
Published: March 2023

In this work, a theoretical study on the electronic properties of the metal/Bi2O2Se interface is presented through the density functional theory calculation. Particularly, the effects of Cr, Pd, Pt, Au, and Bi on monolayer, bilayer, and trilayer Bi2O2Se are explored. Naturally created Se vacancies on the Bi2O2Se surface are also considered by constructing two interface structures: the metal/Bi2O2Se with the Se vacancies remaining or filled with metals. For the metal/monolayer Bi2O2Se, it is observed that the Bi2O2Se layer is fully metallized since Bi2O2Se strongly interacts with the metal. Meanwhile, for the metal/bilayer and trilayer Bi2O2Se, the Bi2O2Se layers remain semiconducting except for the layer right next to metal. Among the considered metals, regardless of whether the Se vacancies are filled with metal or not, the semiconducting layers in bilayer and trilayer Bi2O2Se form Ohmic contact with Bi. It is also found that filling the Se vacancies with the metals heavier than Se increases the interface distance between metal and Bi2O2Se, and hence results in the weak Fermi level pinning effect.
2D Layered Nanomaterials as Fillers in Polymer Composite Electrolytes for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Vijayakumar Vidyanand , Ghosh Meena , Asokan Kiran , Sukumaran Santhosh Babu , Kurungot Sreekumar , Mindemark Jonas , Brandell Daniel , Winter Martin , Nair Jijeesh Ravi
Published: March 2023

Polymer composite electrolytes (PCEs), i.e., materials combining the disciplines of polymer chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and electrochemistry, have received tremendous attention within academia and industry for lithium‐based battery applications. While PCEs often comprise 3D micro‐ or nanoparticles, this review thoroughly summarizes the prospects of 2D layered inorganic, organic, and hybrid nanomaterials as active (ion conductive) or passive (nonion conductive) fillers in PCEs. The synthetic inorganic nanofillers covered here include graphene oxide, boron nitride, transition metal chalcogenides, phosphorene, and MXenes. Furthermore, the use of naturally occurring 2D layered clay minerals, such as layered double hydroxides and silicates, in PCEs is also thoroughly detailed considering their impact on battery cell performance. Despite the dominance of 2D layered inorganic materials, their organic and hybrid counterparts, such as 2D covalent organic frameworks and 2D metal–organic frameworks are also identified as tuneable nanofillers for use in PCE. Hence, this review gives an overview of the plethora of options available for the selective development of both the 2D layered nanofillers and resulting PCEs, which can revolutionize the field of polymer‐based solid‐state electrolytes and their implementation in lithium and post‐lithium batteries.
Electrochemical Reduction of Nitrates on CoO Nanoclusters‐Functionalized Graphene with Highest Mass Activity and Nearly 100% Selectivity to Ammonia
Authors: Kani Nishithan C. , Nguyen Ngoc Hoang Lan , Markel Kyle , Bhawnani Rajan R. , Shindel Benjamin , Sharma Kartikey , Kim Sungjoon , Dravid Vinayak P. , Berry Vikas , Gauthier Joseph A. , Singh Meenesh R.
Published: March 2023

NO3− is a prominent waste byproduct in ammunition industries, and valorization of NO3− into NH3 is desired. NH3 synthesized from waste using renewable energy could be used as an energy storage medium. For such a process, higher selectivity, stability, and enhanced activity per unit mass of catalyst is required. This work reports CoO nanoclusters functionalized on graphene as an efficient catalyst for electrochemical NO3− reduction to NH3 with >98% NH3 Faradaic efficiency and an NH3 current density (geometric) of ≈400 mA cm−2. A highest NH3 yield of 25.63 mol g−1 h−1 is obtained. The developed catalyst prevents the NN coupling step which is required for promoting the selectivity of NH3 over N2. Density functional theory calculations reveal that CoO NC/graphene has similar selectivity to that of polycrystalline Co and that higher activity can be obtained with lower catalyst loading.
The evolution of symbiotic innovation, water, and agricultural supply chains
Authors: Zilberman David , Huang Alice , Goldberg Lanie , Reardon Thomas
Published: March 2023

The water literature has mainly investigated the diversion and distribution of water from the source to the end users or the utilization of water at the farm level in crop production. This paper presents a supply chain perspective that links the innovation supply chain of water delivery and irrigation with the complete water supply chain to the crop and the crop supply chains. These supply chains are symbiotic. Changes in the demand for crops, agronomic technology, and knowledge about water will modify the water infrastructure, irrigation technology, land‐use and crop production patterns, and the pricing of water and related commodities. The parameters that guide investment in water innovation and the design of the water supply chain depend on political, economic, and technological considerations that have coevolved over time with water and crop systems. Evidence from California and elsewhere supports the findings of the paper.
Sex‐specific outbreeding advantages and sexual dimorphism in the seedlings of dioecious trees
Authors: Zhang Yonghua , Lin Wei , Chu Chengjin , Ni Ming
Published: March 2023

Premise

Dioecious trees are important components of many forest ecosystems. Outbreeding advantage and sexual dimorphism are two major mechanisms that explain the persistence of dioecious plants; however, they have rarely been studied in dioecious trees.

Methods

We investigated the influence of sex and genetic distance between parental trees (GDPT) on the growth and functional traits of multiple seedlings of a dioecious tree, Diospyros morrisiana.

Results

We found significant positive relationships between GDPT and seedling sizes and tissue density. However, the positive outbreeding effects on seedling growth mainly manifested in female seedlings, but were not prominent in males. Among seedlings, the male ones generally had higher biomass and leaf area than female seedlings, but such differences diminished as GDPT increased.

Conclusions

Our research highlights that outbreeding advantage in plants can be sex‐specific and that sexual dimorphism begins from the seedling stage of dioecious trees.
Copper‐Catalyzed Tandem Cyclization Approach toN,O‐Chelated Boron Difluoride Complexes
Authors: Cheng Zemin , Xu Yue , Zheng Tao , Yang Yang , Tang Feng , Gu Linghui , Ma Wenbo
Published: March 2023

A strategy for synthesizingN,O‐chelated boron difluoride complexes via copper‐catalyzed tandem cyclization of readily available 2‐aryl pyridines has been developed. This reaction tolerates a wide range of functional groups, providing the corresponding products in 43–91% yield. Furthermore, the photophysical properties were investigated by measuring the UV/Vis absorption and fluorescence spectra of several product derivatives.
Differences in Survival across Monogenic Forms of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Lanore Aymeric , Casse Fanny , Tesson Christelle , Courtin Thomas , Menon Poornima Jayadev , Sambin Sara , Mangone Graziella , Mariani Louise‐Laure , Lesage Suzanne , Brice Alexis , Elbaz Alexis , Corvol Jean‐Christophe ,   for the French Clinicians Network for Parkinson's Disease Genetics (the PDG Group)
Published: March 2023

Objective

Survival of patients with monogenic Parkinson's disease may depend on the causative genes associated with the disease. In this study, we compare survival of patients with Parkinson's disease according to the presence of SNCA, PRKN, LRRK2, or GBA mutations.

Methods

Data from the French Parkinson Disease Genetics national multicenter cohort study were used. Patients with sporadic and familial Parkinson's disease were recruited between 1990 and 2021. Patients were genotyped for the presence of mutations in the SNCA, PRKN, LRRK2, or GBA genes. Vital status was collected from the National death register for participants born in France. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Of the 2,037 patients with Parkinson's disease, 889 had died after a follow‐up of up to 30 years. Patients with PRKN (n = 100, HR = 0.41; p = 0.001) and LRRK2 mutations (n = 51, HR = 0.49; p = 0.023) had longer survival than those without any mutation, whereas patients with SNCA (n = 20, HR = 9.88; p < 0.001) or GBA mutations (n = 173, HR = 1.33; p = 0.048) had shorter survival.

Interpretation

Survival differs across genetic forms of Parkinson's disease, with higher mortality for patients with SNCA or GBA mutations, and lower mortality for those with PRKN or LRRK2 mutations. Differences in severity and disease progression among monogenic forms of Parkinson's disease likely explain these findings, which has important consequences for genetic counselling and choice of end points for future clinical trials for targeted therapies. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:123–132
An Efficient Opal‐Suppressor Tryptophanyl Pair Creates New Routes for Simultaneously Incorporating up to Three Distinct Noncanonical Amino Acids into Proteins in Mammalian Cells**
Authors: Osgood Arianna O. , Zheng Yunan , Roy Soumya Jyoti Singha , Biris Nikolaos , Hussain Myer , Loynd Conor , Jewel Delilah , Italia James S. , Chatterjee Abhishek
Published: March 2023

Site‐specific incorporation of multiple distinct noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) into proteins in mammalian cells is a promising technology, where each ncAA must be assigned to a different orthogonal aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetase (aaRS)/tRNA pair that reads a distinct nonsense codon. Available pairs suppress TGA or TAA codons at a considerably lower efficiency than TAG, limiting the scope of this technology. Here we show that the E. coli tryptophanyl (EcTrp) pair is an excellent TGA‐suppressor in mammalian cells, which can be combined with the three other established pairs to develop three new routes for dual‐ncAA incorporation. Using these platforms, we site‐specifically incorporated two different bioconjugation handles into an antibody with excellent efficiency, and subsequently labeled it with two distinct cytotoxic payloads. Additionally, we combined the EcTrp pair with other pairs to site‐specifically incorporate three distinct ncAAs into a reporter protein in mammalian cells.
Precise Regulation of Emission Maxima and Construction of Highly Efficient Electroluminescent Materials with High Color Purity
Authors: Wang Qingyang , Xu Yincai , Huang Tingting , Qu Yupei , Xue Jianan , Liang Baoyan , Wang Yue
Published: March 2023

Advanced multiple resonance induced thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) emitters have emerged as a privileged motif for applications in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), because they furnish highly tunable TADF characteristics and high color purity emission. Herein, based on the unique nitrogen‐atom embedding molecular engineering (NEME) strategy, a series of compounds BN‐TP‐Nx (x=1, 2, 3, 4) have been customized. The nitrogen‐atom anchored at different position of triphenylene hexagonal lattice entails varying degrees of perturbation to the electronic structure. The newly‐constructed emitters have demonstrated the precise regulation of emission maxima of MR‐TADF emitters to meet the actual industrial demand, and further enormously enriched the MR‐TADF molecular reservoir. The BN‐TP‐N3‐based OLED exhibits ultrapure green emission, with peak of 524 nm, full‐width at half‐maximum (FWHM) of 33 nm, Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.23, 0.71), and maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 37.3 %.
GdIII‐19F Distance Measurements for Proteins in Cells by Electron‐Nuclear Double Resonance
Authors: Seal Manas , Zhu Wenkai , Dalaloyan Arina , Feintuch Akiva , Bogdanov Alexey , Frydman Veronica , Su Xun‐Cheng , Gronenborn Angela M. , Goldfarb Daniella
Published: March 2023

Studies of protein structure and dynamics are usually carried out in dilute buffer solutions, conditions that differ significantly from the crowded environment in the cell. The double electron‐electron resonance (DEER) technique can track proteins’ conformations in the cell by providing distance distributions between two attached spin labels. This technique, however, cannot access distances below 1.8 nm. Here, we show that GdIII‐19F Mims electron‐nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) measurements can cover part of this short range. Low temperature solution and in‐cell ENDOR measurements, complemented with room temperature solution and in‐cell GdIII‐19F PRE (paramagnetic relaxation enhancement) NMR measurements, were performed on fluorinated GB1 and ubiquitin (Ub), spin‐labeled with rigid GdIII tags. The proteins were delivered into human cells via electroporation. The solution and in‐cell derived GdIII‐19F distances were essentially identical and lie in the 1–1.5 nm range revealing that both, GB1 and Ub, retained their overall structure in the GdIII and 19F regions in the cell.