bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NUT carcinoma in pediatric patients: Characteristics, therapeutic regimens, and outcomes of 11 cases registered with the German Registry for Rare Pediatric Tumors (STEP)
Authors: Flaadt Tim , Wild Hannah , Abele Michael , Frühwald Michael , Dirksen Uta , Classen Carl F. , Seitz Christian , Redlich Antje , Lauer Ulrich M. , Kloker Linus , Kratz Christian , Schneider Dominik T. , Brecht Ines B.
Published: December 2023

Background and aims

Nuclear protein of the testis (NUT) carcinoma (NC) is a rare and highly aggressive tumor defined by the presence of a somatic NUTM1 rearrangement, occurring mainly in adolescents and young adults. We analyzed the clinical and biological features of German pediatric patients (≤18 years) with NC.

Methods

This study describes the characteristics and outcome of 11 children with NC registered in the German Registry for Rare Pediatric Tumors (STEP).

Results

Eleven patients with a median age of 13.2 years (range 6.6–17.8) were analyzed. Malignant misdiagnoses were made in three patients. Thoracic/mediastinal tumors were found to be the primary in six patients, head/neck in four cases; one patient had multifocal tumor with an unknown primary. All patients presented with regional lymph node involvement, eight patients (72.7%) with distant metastases. Seven patients underwent surgery, eight radiotherapy with curative intent; polychemotherapy was administered in all patients. Novel treatment strategies including immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and virotherapy were applied in three patients. Median event‐free survival and overall survival were 1.5 and 6.5 months, respectively.

Conclusions

Every undifferentiated or poorly differentiated carcinoma should undergo testing for the specific rearrangement of NUTM1, in order to initiate an intense therapeutic regimen as early as possible. As in adults, only few pediatric patients with NC achieve prolonged survival. Thus, novel therapeutic strategies should be included and tested in clinical trials.
A prospective, randomized, open‐label, parallel trial comparing the efficacy of α‐blocker or 5α‐reductase inhibitor withdrawal to continued combination therapy on the maintenance of lower urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Lee Kwang Suk , Yoo Jeong Woo , Kim Dae Ho , Jeon Soyoung , Yang Juyeon , Chung Byung Ha , Koo Kyo Chul
Published: December 2023

Background

It is uncertain how long combination therapy should be continued in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). We investigated the withdrawal effects of α1‐adrenergic receptor blocker (AB) or 5α‐reductase inhibitor (5ARI) following successful combination therapy.

Methods

This prospective, randomized, open‐label, parallel trial enrolled 222 patients with BPH/LUTS who showed at least a seven‐point improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score‐total (IPSS‐T) and a ≥ 20% reduction in prostate volume (PV) following the initiation of combination therapy. Patients were randomized in a 1:1:1 ratio into continued‐combination, AB‐withdrawal, and 5ARI‐withdrawal groups. IPSS, overactive bladder symptom score, EuroQol‐five‐dimensional questionnaire (EQ‐5D‐5L), EuroQol‐visual analog scale (EQ‐VAS), prostate volume (PV), maximal flow rate, postvoid residual urine (PVR), and prostate‐specific antigen level were assessed every 6 months for 24 months. The predictors of IPSS‐T deterioration were evaluated.

Results

At Month 24, IPSS‐T deterioration (≥2 point) was observed in 20/72 (27.8%) and 19/72 (26.4%) patients in the AB‐ and 5ARI‐withdrawal groups, respectively. Among them, 4/72 (5.6%) and 4/70 (5.7%) patients required readdition of the withdrawn drug (p = 0.868). In the continued combination group, EQ‐VAS improved at Month 24 compared to baseline (p = 0.028). At Month 24, the AB‐withdrawal group showed improvements in EQ‐5D‐5L, EQ‐VAS, and PVR (all p < 0.005), while the 5ARI‐withdrawal group showed improvement in IPSS‐S (p = 0.011). Diabetes mellitus was associated with IPSS‐T deterioration at Month 24 (p = 0.020).

Conclusions

In patients with BPH/LUTS who are reluctant to continue combination therapy, AB or 5ARI withdrawal may be offered in men with improvement in IPSS‐T by at least seven points and reduction in PV by at least 20%.
Development of stapled NONO‐associated peptides reveals unexpected cell permeability and nuclear localisation
Authors: Young Reginald , Huang Tiancheng , Luo Zijie , Tan Yaw Sing , Kaur Amandeep , Lau Yu Heng
Published: December 2023

The non‐POU domain‐containing octamer‐binding protein (NONO) is a nucleic acid‐binding protein with diverse functions that has been identified as a potential cancer target in cell biology studies. Little is known about structural motifs that mediate binding to NONO apart from its ability to form homodimers, as well as heterodimers and oligomers with related homologues. We report a stapling approach to macrocyclise helical peptides derived from the insulin‐like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP‐3) that NONO interacts with, and also from the dimerisation domain of NONO itself. Using a range of chemistries including Pd‐catalysed cross‐coupling, cysteine arylation and cysteine alkylation, we successfully improved the helicity and observed modest peptide binding to the NONO dimer, although binding could not be saturated at micromolar concentrations. Unexpectedly, we observed cell permeability and preferential nuclear localisation of various dye‐labelled peptides in live confocal microscopy, indicating the potential for developing peptide‐based tools to study NONO in a cellular context.
Effects of carbon dioxide concentration in modified atmosphere packaging on the shelf life and quality criteria of whole wheat bread during storage
Authors: Naserifar Farnaz , Sahiner Asli , Kizilirmak Esmer Ozlem
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to determine the effects of carbon dioxide concentration in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the quality criteria and shelf life of whole wheat flour bread. Four different concentrations of CO2 and N2 gases (30% CO2 + 70% N2, 50% CO2 + 50% N2, 70% CO2:30% N2 and 100% CO2) were applied to the bread samples, which were packaged with PA/EVOH/LDPE (polyamide/ethylene vinyl alcohol/low‐density polyethylene). The samples were stored at room temperature (25°C ± 1°C) for 13 days. The control group was packaged using BOPP (bi‐oriented polypropylene) under atmospheric air as in traditional current use. The effects of MAP on headspace gas analysis, pH, moisture content, water activity, water‐holding capacity, blue value, hardness, total mould and yeast count and sensory evaluation were analysed on days 0, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10 and 13. The results showed that the most effective gas combination in extending the shelf life of whole wheat bread was 100% CO2, and its shelf life was 10 days, whereas it was only 3 days for the control group. Increasing concentrations of CO2 significantly affected mould and yeast growth. As the CO2 concentration increased, the bread exhibited higher water‐holding capacity and blue values, which are important indicators for bread staling. An improved preservation of sensory properties was observed in proportion to increasing CO2 concentrations. However, the CO2 gas concentration did not affect the hardness of the bread. Overall, the study suggests that MAP technology, particularly using 100% CO2, can effectively extend the shelf life of whole wheat flour bread without the need for preservatives, not only extending the microbiological shelf life but also increasing the sensory shelf life. The species that grew in air‐packaged samples were suppressed under modified atmosphere conditions and chalk mould fungi were the dominant and shelf life‐impacting species in the MAP samples. These findings could be beneficial in reducing bread wastage, which is a critical issue in today's society due to the limited shelf life of bread caused by rapid microbiological deterioration or staling.
Photodynamic therapy for arthritis: A promising therapeutic strategy
Authors: Mi Liangyu , Gao Jinfang , Liu Ying , Zhang Na , Zhao Miaomiao , Wang Sheng , Xu Ke
Published: December 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a novel therapy that combines photosensitizers, light, and oxygen molecules to treat diseases such as joint lesions and microbial infections through photodynamic reactions. The photosensitizers are activated under specific wavelengths of laser radiation to generate reactive oxygen species, which alter the microenvironment of the diseased tissue, cause ischemia and target cell death, and thus effectively treat cancer. Now that there is growing evidence that nonlethal doses of PDT reduce inflammation and treat infections in multiple animal models of arthritis, PDT should be considered as a new option for the treatment of arthritis. This article presents a literature review of published original articles and review articles concerning photodynamic therapy and arthritis. We conducted a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases, excluding duplicated and irrelevant studies. In cases of duplicated research, we selected articles with higher impact factors for the review. In this review, we summarize the application and progress of PDT in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and infectious arthritis, and clarify the advantages and limitations of PDT for arthritis. PDT offers therapeutic value for patients with inflammatory and infectious arthritis through promoting vascular occlusion, cell death, and antibacterial therapy.
Structural confirmation of position isomers 2‐(2‐methylaminoprolyl)benzofuran and 5‐(2‐methylaminopropyl)benzofuran: a combined mass spectrometric and computational study
Authors: Xu Yu , Lin Xin , Chen Xianxin , Ke Xing , Wu Hao , Fan Yi Lei , Zhou Jing , Xu Jiawei
Published: December 2023

Rationale

Phenylethylamines are one of the most common types of new psychoactive substances, following synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones. They are regulated in many countries because of their strong hallucinogenic effects, which can cause serious nerve damage. There is a wide variety of phenylethylamines, exhibiting rapid renewal and extremely similar structures, therefore accurate qualitative analysis of isomers is a difficult problem in current drug analysis.

Methods

The dissociation pathways of the position isomers 2‐(2‐methylaminoprolyl)benzofuran (2‐MAPB) and 5‐(2‐methylaminopropyl)benzofuran (5‐MAPB) were investigated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography coupled to high‐resolution quadrupole Orbitrap MS. The dissociation patterns of the phenethylamine‐based designer drugs 2‐MAPB and 5‐MAPB were explored and extended in this work based on MS combined with density functional theory studies.

Results

For electron ionization mass spectrometry (EI‐MS) analysis, the dissociation patterns of 2‐MAPB were similar to those of 5‐MAPB. For electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MSn) analysis, the hydrogen atom on amino group was facile to form a intramolecular hydrogen bond with the oxygen atom on the parent nucleus of benzofuran in the structure of 2‐MAPB, leading to higher abundance of the product ion at m/z 58. However, there was a conjugated system between the positive charge formed by the cleavage of the 5‐MAPB side chain and the benzofuran ring, enabling the 5‐MAPB to generate a product ion at m/z 131. Computational study showed that energy barrier and spin density difference distribution jointly control the selective dissociation in EI‐MS, while different types of orbital interaction induced by intramolecular hydrogen bond led to different dissociation results in ESI‐MSn.

Conclusions

These different dissociation patterns could be used to distinguish 2‐MAPB from 5‐MAPB. This could assist forensic laboratories in the differentiation and characterization of potential isomers in these kinds of compounds, especially in mixtures.
Strategic leaders' ecosystem vision formation and digital transformation: A motivated interactional lens
Authors: Reuter Emmanuelle , Floyd Steven
Published: December 2023

Research Summary

The question of why and how strategic leaders differ in the ecosystems they envision is central to firms' digital transformation. We unpack the cognitive microfoundations of how strategic leaders form their ecosystem vision—a mental model of a firm's multilateral complementarities with its partners to realize a value proposition. Our motivated interactional lens emphasizes the role of strategic leaders' cognitive motivation for shaping four interaction types with (prospective) partners: participatory, selective, collaborative, and reclusive. We theorize how these interactions shape the changes strategic leaders make in their mental models, and thus, to envision different levels and types of complementarities with (prospective) partners in the digital transformation. Our theory illuminates the roles of strategic leaders, their cognitive motivations, and social interactions in firms' ecosystem leadership.

Managerial Summary

Digital transformation is an ecosystem challenge for incumbent firms. As part of their ecosystem leadership, strategic leaders need to form a vision of how to complement their value offerings with (prospective) partners' offerings. This vision, in turn, can affect the types of ecosystems they enact. We develop a theoretical model that emphasizes the role of strategic leaders' cognitive motivation for the interactions they engage in with (prospective) partners and for the types of ecosystem visions they form as a result.
Switching Electric Double Layer Potential by Phase Structure Control for Advanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction of Cobalt@Nitrogen Doped Carbon Core–Shell
Authors: Kim Seonghee , Ji Seulgi , Jeong Soyoon , Yang Hyeonsu , Lee Sungho , Choi Heechae , Li Oi Lun
Published: December 2023

The key to design an advanced oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalyst is a well‐balance between the adsorption and desorption of oxygen intermediates. This study systematically evaluated the ORR activity of HCP and FCC cobalt core–shell cobalt/N‐doped carbon (Cobalt@NC) catalyst via theoretical and experimental studies. The electronic structure calculations using density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the ORR activity of carbon layer can be improved by 1) switching the electrostatic potential in the electrical double layer due to the polarization induced at the carbon–cobalt interface and 2) modulating the electron population in the bonding orbital in the C–O bonds in an ORR. The results revealed that an O atom is bounded stronger to the outer NC shell with FCC Cobalt than HCP Cobalt, which hindered the desorption steps of OH*. Experimentally, plasma‐engineered HCP Cobalt@NC also showed remarkably advanced performance toward ORR compared to that FCC Cobalt@NC. The kinetic current density of HCP Cobalt@NC at 0.85 V versus RHE is calculated as 6.24 mA cm−2, which is six folds higher than FCC Cobalt@NC and even outperform 20 wt.% Pt/C. In a practical Aluminium‐air battery, HCP Cobalt@NC also exhibited slightly higher peak power density (110.57 mW cm−2) compared to 20 wt.% Pt/C.
[Ru(dpp)3]Cl2‐Embedded Oxygen Nano Polymeric Sensors: A Promising Tool for Monitoring Intracellular and Intratumoral Oxygen Gradients with High Quantum Yield and Long Lifetime
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Goudar Venkanagouda S. , Nahak Bishal Kumar , Tsai Ping‐Hsun , Lin Hao‐Wu , Tseng Fan‐Gang
Published: December 2023

Unraveling the intricacies between oxygen dynamics and cellular processes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) hinges upon precise monitoring of intracellular and intratumoral oxygen levels, which holds paramount significance. The majority of these reported oxygen nanoprobes suffer compromised lifetime and quantum yield when exposed to the robust ROS activities prevalent in TME, limiting their prolonged in vitro usability. Herein, the ruthenium‐embedded oxygen nano polymeric sensor (Ru‐ONPS) is proposed for precise oxygen gradient monitoring within the cellular environment and TME. Ru‐ONPS (≈64±7 nm) incorporates [Ru(dpp)3]Cl2 dye into F‐127 and crosslinks it with urea and paraformaldehyde, ensuring a prolonged lifetime (5.4 µs), high quantum yield (66.65 ± 2.43% in N2 and 49.80 ± 3.14% in O2), superior photostability (>30 min), and excellent stability in diverse environmental conditions. Based on the Stern–Volmer plot, the Ru‐ONPS shows complete linearity for a wide dynamic range (0–23 mg L−1), with a detection limit of 10 µg mL−1. Confocal imaging reveals Ru‐ONPS cellular uptake and intratumoral distribution. After 72 h, HCT‐8 cells show 5.20±1.03% oxygen levels, while NIH3T3 cells have 7.07±1.90%. Co‐culture spheroids display declining oxygen levels of 17.90±0.88%, 10.90±0.88%, and 5.10±1.18%, at 48, 120, and 216 h, respectively. Ru‐ONPS advances cellular oxygen measurement and facilitates hypoxia‐dependent metastatic research and therapeutic target identification.
Multifunctional Carbon Fiber Reinforced C/SiOC Aerogel Composites for Efficient Electromagnetic Wave Absorption, Thermal Insulation, and Flame Retardancy
Authors: Yang Dongdong , Dong Shun , Cui Tangyin , Xin Jianqiang , Xu Xiaojing , Chen Jingmao , Xie Yongshuai , Chen Guiqing , Hong Changqing , Zhang Xinghong
Published: December 2023

Carbon fiber composites have great application prospects as a potential electromagnetic (EM) wave‐absorbing material, yet it remains extremely challenging to integrate multiple functions of EM wave absorption, mechanical strength, thermal insulation, and flame retardancy. Herein, a novel carbon fiber reinforced C/SiOC aerogel (CF/CS) composite is successfully prepared by sol‐gel impregnation combined with an ambient drying process for the first time. The density of the obtained CF/CS composites can be controlled just by changing sol‐gel impregnation cycles (original carbon fiber felt (S0), and samples with one (S1) and two (S2) impregnation cycles are 0.249, 0.324, and 0.402 g cm−3, respectively), allowing for efficient tuning of their properties. Remarkably, S2 displays excellent microwave absorption properties, with an optimal reflection loss of ‐65.45 dB, which is significantly improved than S0 (‐10.90 dB). Simultaneously, compared with S0 (0.75 and 0.30 MPa in the x/y and z directions), the mechanical performance of S2 is dramatically improved with a maximum compressive strength of 10.37 and 4.93 MPa in the x/y and z directions, respectively. Moreover, CF/CS composites show superior thermal insulation capability than S0 and obtain good flame‐retardant properties. This work provides valuable guidance and inspiration for the development of multifunctional EM wave absorbers.
In Situ Fast Construction of Ni3S4/FeS Catalysts on 3D Foam Structure Achieving Stable Large‐Current‐Density Water Oxidation
Authors: Tan Pingping , Wu Yuanke , Tan Yangyang , Xiang Yang , Zhou Liyuan , Han Ning , Jiang Yinzhu , Bao Shu‐Juan , Zhang Xuan
Published: December 2023

By increasing the content of Ni3+, the catalytic activity of nickel‐based catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), which is still problematic with current synthesis routes, can be increased. Herein, a Ni3+‐rich of Ni3S4/FeS on FeNi Foam (Ni3S4/FeS@FNF) via anodic electrodeposition to direct obtain high valence metal ions for OER catalyst is presented. XPS showed that the introduction of Fe not only further increased the Ni3+ concentration in Ni3S4/FeS to 95.02%, but also inhibited the dissolution of NiOOH by up to seven times. Furthermore, the OER kinetics is enhanced by the combination of the inner Ni3S4/FeS heterostructures and the electrochemically induced surface layers of oxides/hydroxides. Ni3S4/FeS@FNF shows the most excellent OER activity with a low Tafel slope of 11.2 mV dec−1 and overpotentials of 196 and 445 mV at current densities of 10 and 1400 mA cm−2, respectively. Furthermore, the Ni3S4/FeS@FNF catalyst can be operated stably at 1500 mA cm−2 for 200 h without significant performance degradation. In conclusion, this work has significantly increased the high activity Ni3+ content in nickel‐based OER electrocatalysts through an anodic electrodeposition strategy. The preparation process is time‐saving and mature, which is expected to be applied in large‐scale industrialization.
Fabrication of Carboxylate‐Functionalized 2D MOF Nanosheet with Caged Cavity for Efficient and Selective Extraction of Uranium from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Yu Cai‐Xia , Jiang Wen , Lei Min , Yao Meng‐Ru , Sun Xue‐Qin , Wang Yanlong , Liu Wei , Liu Lei‐Lei
Published: December 2023

The efficient removal of radioactive uranium from aqueous solution is of great significance for the safe and sustainable development of nuclear power. An ultrathin 2D metal–organic framework (MOF) nanosheet with cavity structures was elaborately fabricated based on a calix[4]arene ligand. Incorporating the permanent cavity structures on MOF nanosheet can fully utilize its structural characteristics of largely exposed surface area and accessible adsorption sites in pollutant removal, achieving ultrafast adsorption kinetics, and the functionalized cavity structure would endow the MOF nanosheets with the ability to achieve preconcentration and extraction of uranium from aqueous solution, affording ultrahigh removal efficiency even in ultra‐low concentrations. Thus, more than 97% uranium can be removed from the concentration range of 50–500 µg L−1 within 5 min. Moreover, the 2D nano‐material exhibits ultra‐high anti‐interference ability, which can efficiently remove uranium from groundwater and seawater. The adsorption mechanism was investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) analysis, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, which revealed that the cavity structure plays an important role in uranium capture. This study not only realizes highly efficient uranium removal from aqueous solution but also opens the door to achieving ultrathin MOF nanosheets with cavity structures, which will greatly expand the applications of MOF nanosheets.
In Situ Pt Migration Enabled Resurrection of Electrocatalyst and Fuel Cell Device
Authors: Lei Hao , Cui Mangwei , Cao Jian , Li Kaikai , Chen Zuhuang , Sun Ligang , Huang Yan
Published: December 2023

In direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), the poisoning of noble metals is considered to be a major impediment to their commercial development. Here, it is found that the loss of surface Pt is one main reason for the attenuation of catalyst performance during long‐time methanol oxidation reaction (MOR). A strategy to realize in situ resurrection of the deactivated catalyst by migrating Pt atoms inside to the surface is innovatively proposed. A high‐activity Pt‐SnO2 is designed, whose MOR activity is resurrected to 97.4% of the initial value. Based on this, the multiple resurrection of a DMFC device is also achieved for the first time. This work provides a new approach for the solution of catalyst deactivation and the development of sustainable catalysts as well as fuel cells.
Biodegradable and Efficient Charge‐Migrated Z‐Scheme Heterojunction Amplifies Cancer Ferroptosis by Blocking Defensive Redox System
Authors: Liu Yuanqi , Yi Yunfei , Sun Shengjie , Wang Tianqi , Tang Jia , Peng Zhangwen , Huang Wenxin , Zeng Weiwei , Wu Meiying
Published: December 2023

Ferroptosis is an emerging non‐apoptotic death process, mainly involving lipid peroxidation (LPO) caused by iron accumulation, which is potentially lethal to the intrinsically apoptotic‐resistant malignant tumor. However, it is still restricted by the inherent antioxidant systems of tumor cells and the poor efficacy of traditional iron‐based ferroptosis initiators. Herein, the study develops a novel ferroptosis‐inducing agent based on PEGylated Cu+/Cu2+‐doped black phosphorus@polypyrrole heterojunction (BP@CPP), which is constructed by utilizing the phosphate on the surface of BP to chelate Cu ions and initiating subsequent in situ polymerization of pyrrole. As a novel Z‐scheme heterojunction, BP@CPP possesses an excellent photocatalytic activity in which the separated electron–hole pairs under laser irradiation endow it with powerful oxidizing and reducing capacities, which synergy with Cu+/Cu2+self‐cycling catalyzing Fenton‐like reaction to further strengthen reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, glutathione (GSH) depletion, and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) inactivation, ultimately leading to efficient ferroptosis. Systematic in vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrate that BP@CPP effectively inhibit tumor growth by inducing desired ferroptosis while maintaining a favorable biosafety in the body. Therefore, the developed BP@CPP‐based ferroptosis initiator provides a promising strategy for ferroptosis‐like cancer therapy.
A High‐Entropy Prussian Blue Analog for Aqueous Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Can , Lin Chao , Li Nan , Chen Yifan , Yang Yusi , Tan Lulu , Wang Zhenglin , Zhang Qianfan , Zhu Yujie
Published: December 2023

Aqueous potassium‐ion batteries (AKIBs) are considered promising electrochemical energy storage systems owing to their high safety and cost‐effectiveness. However, the structural degradation resulting from the repeated accommodation of large K‐ions and the dissolution of active electrode materials in highly dielectric aqueous electrolytes often lead to unsatisfactory electrochemical performance. This study introduces a high‐entropy Prussian blue analog (HEPBA) cathode material for AKIBs, demonstrating significantly enhanced structural stability and reduced dissolution. The HEPBA exhibits a highly reversible specific capacity of 102.4 mAh g−1, with 84.4% capacity retention after undergoing 3448 cycles over a duration of 270 days. Mechanistic insights derived from comprehensive experimental investigations, supported by theoretical calculations, reveal that the HEPBA features a robust structure resistant to dissolution, a solid‐solution reaction pathway with negligible volume variation during charge–discharge, and efficient ion transport kinetics characterized by a reduced band gap and a low energy barrier. This study represents a measurable step forward in the development of long‐lasting electrode materials for aqueous AKIBs.
Magnetotactic Sperm Cells for Assisted Reproduction
Authors: Striggow Friedrich , Ribeiro Carla , Aziz Azaam , Nauber Richard , Hebenstreit Franziska , Schmidt Oliver G. , Medina‐Sánchez Mariana
Published: December 2023

Biohybrid micromotors are active microscopic agents consisting of biological and synthetic components that are being developed as novel tools for biomedical applications. By capturing motile sperm cells within engineered microstructures, they can be controlled remotely while being propelled forward by the flagellar beat. This makes them an interesting tool for reproductive medicine that can enable minimally invasive sperm cell delivery to the oocyte in vivo, as a treatment for infertility. The generation of sperm‐based micromotors in sufficiently large numbers, as they are required in biomedical applications has been challenging, either due to the employed fabrication techniques or the stability of the microstructure‐sperm coupling. Here, biohybrid micromotors, which can be assembled in a fast and simple process using magnetic microparticles, are presented. These magnetotactic sperm cells show a high motility and swimming speed and can be transferred between different environments without large detrimental effects on sperm motility and membrane integrity. Furthermore, clusters of micromotors are assembled magnetically and visualized using dual ultrasound (US)/photoacoustic (PA) imaging. Finally, a protocol for the scaled‐up assembly of micromotors and their purification for use in in vitro fertilization (IVF) is presented, bringing them closer to their biomedical implementation.
Visible‐Light‐Responsive Photoreversible Multi‐Color Switching for Rewritable Light‐Printing and Information Display
Authors: Zhang Yun , Dou Yao , Ye Zuyang , Xue Wenzhao , Liu Feng , Yan Mei , Wang Wenshou , Yin Yadong
Published: December 2023

Photoreversible color switching systems (PCSSs) exhibiting multi‐color responses to visible light are favored for sustainable societal development over those relying on ultraviolet light due to safer operation and better penetration depth. Here, a PCSS capable of multi‐color switching responsive to visible light based on highly photoreductive rutile‐phase Sn‐doped TiO2−x nanoparticles is reported. The Sn‐doping significantly red‐shifts the absorption band of the nanoparticles to the visible region, improving charge separation and transfer efficiencies and introducing Ti3+ species and oxygen vacancies as internal sacrificial electron donors for scavenging photogenerated holes. The resulting Sn‐doped TiO2−x nanoparticles feature exceptional photoreduction ability and activity, thereby enabling photoreversible color switching of various redox dyes operational under visible light illumination. Furthermore, multi‐color switching can be achieved via the color overlay effect by combining different redox dyes in one system, opening the door to many advanced applications, as demonstrated in their successful uses for developing visible‐light‐driven rewritable multi‐color light‐printing systems and visual information displays.
Synergistic Effect of Grain Boundaries and Oxygen Vacancies on Enhanced Selectivity for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Wei Xiaoqian , Li Zijian , Jang Haeseong , Wang Zhe , Zhao Xuhao , Chen Yunfei , Wang Xuefeng , Kim Min Gyu , Liu Xien , Qin Qing
Published: December 2023

Dual‐engineering involved of grain boundaries (GBs) and oxygen vacancies (VO) efficiently engineers the material's catalytic performance by simultaneously introducing favorable electronic and chemical properties. Herein, a novel SnO2 nanoplate is reported with simultaneous oxygen vacancies and abundant grain boundaries (V,G‐SnOx/C) for promoting the highly selective conversion of CO2 to value‐added formic acid. Attributing to the synergistic effect of employed dual‐engineering, the V,G‐SnOx/C displays highly catalytic selectivity with a maximum Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 87% for HCOOH production at −1.2 V versus RHE and FEs > 95% for all C1 products (CO and HCOOH) within all applied potential range, outperforming current state‐of‐the‐art electrodes and the amorphous SnOx/C. Theoretical calculations combined with advanced characterizations revealed that GB induces the formation of electron‐enriched Sn site, which strengthens the adsorption of *HCOO intermediate. While GBs and VO synergistically lower the reaction energy barrier, thus dramatically enhancing the intrinsic activity and selectivity toward HCOOH.
Scalable and Flexible Multi‐Layer Prismatic Photonic Metamaterial Film for Efficient Daytime Radiative Cooling
Authors: Li Wangchang , Zhan Huanchen , Huang Nengyan , Ying Yao , Yu Jing , Zheng Jingwu , Qiao Liang , Li Juan , Che Shenglei
Published: December 2023

To maintain a comfortable indoor living environment in low latitude or tropical regions, humans consume significant amounts of electrical energy in air conditioning, leading to substantial CO2 emissions. Passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) allows objects to cool down during the daytime without any energy consumption by dissipating heat through the atmospheric transparency window (8−13 µm) to outer space, which has garnered significant attention. However, the practical applications of common PDRC materials are hindered by their poor optical selectivity and high‐reflective silver backing. Additionally, the availability of artificial photon emitters with complex structures and excellent performance is also limited by their high cost. Herein, a novel multilayer prismatic photonic metamaterial film without any silver reflector, easily scalable and produced by a roll‐to‐roll method is demonstrated, which exhibits ≈96.4% sunlight reflectance (0.3−2.5 µm) and ≈97.2% emissivity in mid‐infrared (IR) (8−13 µm). At an average solar intensity of ≈920 W m−2, it is on average 6.8 °C below ambient temperature during the day and theoretically yields a radiative cooling power of 88.9 W m−2. Furthermore, the film exhibits excellent hydrophobicity, superior flexibility, and robust mechanical strength, providing an attractive and viable pathway for practical applications addressing the pressing challenges of climate and energy issues.
Present State and Future Outlook of Ammonia Production through Photocatalytic Nitrate Reduction
Authors: Youn Geon , Hong Inju , Song Byeongju , Lee Dongmin , Yun Yongju , Moon Hyun Sik , Yong Kijung
Published: December 2023

Ammonia (NH3) production has gained increasing attention owing to its versatility in both industrial and agricultural applications, as well as its potential as a next‐generation energy carrier with a high hydrogen density. Given the energy‐intensive and environmentally impactful nature of the Haber–Bosch process, there is a pressing need for a sustainable NH3 synthesis method under ambient conditions. Nitrate (NO3−) emerges as a compelling nitrogen source due to its numerous advantages over inert nitrogen (N2) gas, such as its relatively low dissociation energy and high aqueous solubility. Moreover, NO3− is a common contaminant found in wastewater, posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems. The photocatalytic NO3− reduction to NH3, which utilizes sunlight to convert contaminants into value‐added chemicals, aligns perfectly with the need for sustainable solutions. This perspective reviews the latest advancements in the field of photocatalytic NO3− to NH3 conversion. The mechanism behind the conversion of NO3− to NH3 is briefly explained, and photocatalysts exhibiting high selectivity and activity in NH3 production, along with other influential factors, are summarized. Additionally, current challenges and future prospects within this field are discussed.This perspective will provide a valuable guidance for future research in the realm of photocatalytic NH3 production via NO3− reduction.
Nanostructured Conductive Metal–Organic Frameworks: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Bao Tong , Zhai Wenxi , Yu Chengzhong , Liu Chao
Published: December 2023

Conductive metal–organic frameworks (c‐MOFs) have aroused extensive attention due to their excellent properties by integrating the features of both conductive and porous crystalline materials. Recent investigations in miniaturization ofc‐MOFs into nanostructured conductive MOFs (nc‐MOFs) endow them with additional advantages such as reduced diffusion distance, accelerated mass/electron transfer, enhanced active site exposure, and accessibility, further widening their applications with reinforced performances compared to the conventional bulk counterparts. Herein, a timely review on the latest achievements in the field ofnc‐MOFs is provided. First, we systematically introduce the synthetic strategies for producingnc‐MOFs with controllable morphologies and compositions. Second, the enhanced performance ofnc‐MOFs in electrocatalysis, supercapacitors, batteries, sensors, and photocatalysis is highlighted. Finally, a discussion on the challenges and opportunities of the synthesis and applications ofnc‐MOFs is presented. It is expected that this review will shed light on the future development ofnc‐MOFs with promising application potential.
Role of Varieties of Starch in the Development of Edible Films—A Review
Authors: Naveen Rajshri , Loganathan Manickam
Published: December 2023

Starch, a stored form of energy in plants, plays an important role in the human diet as it is a vital source of carbohydrate. The classification of starch based on its botanical origin as cereal starch, tuber starch, and millet starch gives a new dimension to starch classification. The starches generally have an amylose (AM) content of 20–30%, amylopectin (AP) of 70–80% and gelatinization temperature of 60–95°C. Conventionally, starch is used in the food industry as a thickening agent and flavor enhancer in soups, sauces, bakery, and confectionery products. But, the less explored area is its utilization in the manufacture of edible films. Starch, due to its plasticizing effect, gelatinization, and pasting property produces film with desirable tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (EAB), and water vapor permeability (WVP). Starch films are not only biodegradable and renewable, but also possess excellent barrier properties. These films produced by wet and dry processing techniques can be used to package confectioneries, meat, sea foods, fruits, and vegetables. In the recent times, superhydrophobic, active, and agro‐waste based edible films have gained industrial importance.
Investigation on reuse of energy at a sewage treatment plant and payback period
Authors: Coelho José Gustavo , Oliveira Fávero Vinícius , Oliveira Guilherme Azevedo , Pinho Francisco Aurilo Azevedo
Published: December 2023

The reuse of energy is a topic currently being widely discussed around the world. This study analyzes the potential for energy reuse in treatment plants. Sewage Treatment Plants are responsible for treating the water present in the sewers of cities. The treated water returns clean to the river, and generally, the place of discharge has a high height and flow rate that can be harnessed for the generation of electric energy. This work investigates the feasibility of installing a Micro Hydroelectric Plant in the Treatment Station of the Uberaba River in Brazil. Hydraulic potential and investment analysis were used as viability criteria. For the study, a height of 6 m and an average flow rate of 0.465 m3/s were considered, which could generate about 22.51 kW using a Bulb water turbine. This power represents a return of US$1651.26 per month from the generation of electric energy. The estimated installation cost was US$32,966.73, and the payback period was found to be less than 2 years. There are 702 sewage treatment plants in Brazil alone, and hypothetical analyses were performed with flow rates ranging from 0.2 to 1 m3/s and heights ranging from 1 to 9 m. Motivating results with payback periods of less than 4 years were obtained for numerous hypothetical situations, which demonstrates the feasibility of installing Micro Hydropower Plants and achieving savings in the sewage treatment system.
Recent research progress on modified activated carbon from biomass for the treatment of wastewater: A critical review
Authors: Rathi B. Senthil , M Trisha , S Kaviya Selvi , R Gokul , V Renuka
Published: December 2023

Water is one of the most vital substances on the planet that supports and sustains life. One of the most crucial challenges of our time is water. It is a basic need for all living beings. Worldwide, a large amount of wastewater is produced daily from home and industrial sources, creating problems such a water shortage and environmental degradation. Water that has already been utilized is called wastewater. It has been observed that the wastewater released varies in composition according to the kind of industry and the municipal sources. Microorganisms, heavy metals, organic pollutants, pesticides, phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, emerging contaminants, and potentially dangerous wastes are all present in it. Among the most effective methods for removing these contaminants in recent times is the adsorption phenomenon. The presence of various contaminants in wastewater can be efficiently reduced by the simple, efficient, and affordable process of adsorption. Selection of suitable adsorbent is the crucial technique in this operation of adsorption. A versatile adsorbent is activated carbon (AC). Their maximum surface reactivity, large surface area, and microporous form are what give them their adsorptive capabilities. To enable recovery and filter, eliminate, or change the toxic components from gases and liquid solutions, they are used to purify, decolorize, deodorize, dechlorinate, separate, and concentrate. As a result, a variety of industries are interested in AC for the process of adsorption. This review paper briefs the characteristics of AC and their preparation techniques. It discusses the numerous approaches for modifying the surface of AC with significant adsorption capability. It also emphasizes the usage of AC with the elimination of different toxins found in waste water.
Rhinoscope‐assisted management of nasal hirudiniasis in a dog
Authors: Dhauni Lokesh , Kumar Amit , Singh Manpreet , Kumar Rohit , Tyagi Som P.
Published: December 2023

A mixed‐breed mesocephalic male dog, weighing 25 kg, was presented with a medical history of nasal leeches (Dinobdella ferox) affecting both nostrils with the symptoms of laboured breathing, reverse sneezing, intermittent epistaxis and a reduced appetite. The dog underwent a standard clinical examination, haematological and biochemical assessments and radiographic studies to systematically diagnose any anomalies and evaluate its suitability for general anaesthesia. A Karl Storz video‐otoscope featuring a 15 Fr instrument channel was used to conduct anterior rhinoscopy under general anaesthesia. The endoscope was introduced sequentially into each nostril to visualise the nasal cavities and pinpoint the presence of leeches therein. Grasping forceps, guided through the endoscope's integrated instrument channel, were used to extract the leeches from both nasal cavities within a brief timeframe (18 leeches in 16 min) and without encountering substantial challenges. Following the leech removal, a post‐retrieval minor capillary bleeding within the nasal cavities, which was seen from both the nostrils, was controlled by flushing the nostrils with a 1:10,000 adrenaline tartrate solution.
Electro‐mechanical coupling analysis of three‐dimensional embedded braided composite piezoelectric vibration energy harvester
Authors: Zhang Guangshuo , Wei Gaofeng , Meng Xiangxun , Song Ming
Published: December 2023

In this article, the piezoelectric patches are embedded into three‐dimensional (3‐D) braided composite material (BCM), and a 3‐D embedded braided composite piezoelectric vibration energy harvester (BCPEH) is designed. The 3‐D embedded BCPEH can be applied in more complex working environments to protecting the piezoelectric patches, and has a longer lifespan. The material parameters of the 3‐D BCM are obtained by analyzing the representative volume units (RVU). Using Hamilton's variational principle, the vibration control equation, and the output voltage and power expression are derived. The influence of excitation frequency, load resistance, and external excitation on the output voltage and power are simulated under different braided angles and embedded depths.
Chern-Simons action and the Carrollian Cotton tensors
Authors: Mišković Olivera , Olea Rodrigo , Petropoulos P. Marios , Rivera-Betancour David , Siampos Konstantinos
Published: December 2023

Abstract

In three-dimensional pseudo-Riemannian manifolds, the Cotton tensor arises as the variation of the gravitational Chern-Simons action with respect to the metric. It is Weyl-covariant, symmetric, traceless and covariantly conserved. Performing a reduction of the Cotton tensor with respect to Carrollian diffeomorphisms in a suitable frame, one discloses four sets of Cotton Carrollian relatives, which are conformal and obey Carrollian conservation equations. Each set of Carrollian Cotton tensors is alternatively obtained as the variation of a distinct Carroll-Chern-Simons action with respect to the degenerate metric and the clock form of a strong Carroll structure. The four Carroll-Chern-Simons actions emerge in the Carrollian reduction of the original Chern-Simons ascendant. They inherit its anomalous behaviour under diffeomorphisms and Weyl transformations. The extremums of these Carrollian actions are commented and illustrated.
Laminated strand lumber (LSL) potential of Hungarian and Central European hardwoods: a review
Authors: Hasan K. M. Faridul , Bak Miklós , Ahmed Ahmed Altaher Omer , Garab József , Horváth Péter György , Bejó László , Alpár Tibor
Published: December 2023

This review paper discusses the potential of laminated strand lumber (LSL) as a structural and building material, with a focus on Hungarian hardwoods such as Turkey oak, hornbeam, beech, and domestic poplar. LSL is an engineered wood product made from thin strands of wood that are glued together in layers. The study compares the physical and mechanical properties of LSL made from these hardwood species with those of other conventional structural materials. In addition, the paper discusses various aspects of LSL such as thermal, morphological, and durability, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the LSL material. Furthermore, a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis is conducted to understand the strengths and weaknesses of LSL products. This analysis sheds light on the pros and cons of utilizing LSL crafted from certain hardwoods and provides suggestions for improving their performance in various settings. Overall, the report demonstrates the potential of utilizing LSL made from these particular hardwood species and offers recommendations for future studies to benefit LSL manufacturers and researchers significantly.
Bumblebees display stimulus-specific persistence behaviour after being trained on delayed reinforcement
Authors: Zhou Yonghe , MaBouDi HaDi , Peng Chaoyang , Dona Hiruni Samadi Galpayage , Al-Khudhairy Selene Gutierrez , Chittka Lars , Solvi Cwyn , Peng Fei
Published: December 2023

In uncertain environments, animals often face the challenge of deciding whether to stay with their current foraging option or leave to pursue the next opportunity. The voluntary decision to persist at a location or with one option is a critical cognitive ability in animal temporal decision-making. Little is known about whether foraging insects form temporal expectations of reward and how these expectations affect their learning and rapid, short-term foraging decisions. Here, we trained bumblebees on a simple colour discrimination task whereby they entered different opaque tunnels surrounded by coloured discs (artificial flowers) and received reinforcement (appetitive sugar water or aversive quinine solution depending on flower colour). One group received reinforcement immediately and the other after a variable delay (0–3 s). We then recorded how long bees were willing to wait/persist when reinforcement was delayed indefinitely. Bumblebees trained with delays voluntarily stayed in tunnels longer than bees trained without delays. Delay-trained bees also waited/persisted longer after choosing the reward-associated flower compared to the punishment-associated flower, suggesting stimulus-specific temporal associations. Strikingly, while training with delayed reinforcement did not affect colour discrimination, it appeared to facilitate the generalisation of temporal associations to ambiguous stimuli in bumblebees. Our findings suggest that bumblebees can be trained to form temporal expectations, and that these expectations can be incorporated into their decision-making processes, highlighting bumblebees’ cognitive flexibility in temporal information usage.

Significance statement

The willingness to voluntarily wait or persist for potential reward is a critical aspect of decision-making during foraging. Investigating the willingness to persist across various species can shed light on the evolutionary development of temporal decision-making and related processes. This study revealed that bumblebees trained with delays to reinforcement from individual flowers were able to form temporal expectations, which, in turn, generalised to ambiguous stimuli. These findings contribute to our understanding of temporal cognition in an insect and the potential effects of delayed rewards on foraging behaviour.