bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large‐Scale Fabrication of Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence Cellulose Filaments with Color‐Tunable Afterglows
Authors: Peng Fang , Qiu Changjing , Wu Pingping , Hu Songnan , Chen Pan , Li Xingxing , Li Mengke , Chen Zijian , Su Shi‐Jian , Qi Haisong
Published: August 2024

The large‐scale fabrication of long‐lived and sustainable room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials with color‐tunable afterglow is of considerable practical importance in diverse optoelectronic applications but remains challenging. Herein, based on a process for the mass production of cellulose acetoacetate filaments, large‐scale RTP filaments are synthesized by introducing amino‐bearing luminophores via a mild enamine reaction. Attributed to efficient intersystem crossing facilitated by acetoacetyl and benzoyloxy groups alongside a rigid environment provided by multiple hydrogen bonding, the resulting filaments exhibit impressive RTP with a lifetime of 772 ms and a phosphorescence quantum yield of 45.06%. Furthermore, the afterglow color of RTP filaments is rationally modulated from blue to greenish‐yellow to rosy‐red through triplet‐to‐singlet Förster resonance energy transfer. Meanwhile, the formation of diverse clusters with comparable but different lifetimes leads to interesting excitation‐dependent afterglows. This work not only provides an effective strategy to construct long‐lived, color‐tunable, sustainable afterglows but also establishes large‐scale and continuous preparation routes for functional cellulose filaments.
Loss of Smek1 Induces Tauopathy and Triggers Neurodegeneration by Regulating Microtubule Stability
Authors: Duan Ruo‐Nan , Liu Ai , Sun Yue‐Qing , Xie Yun‐Fang , Wei Shi‐Jun , Gao Shang , Liu Yi‐Ming , Li Xi , Sun Wen‐Jie , Li Jiang‐Xia , Yan Chuan‐Zhu , Liu Qi‐Ji
Published: August 2024

Suppressor of Mek1 (Smek1) is a regulatory subunit of protein phosphatase 4. Genome‐wide association studies have shown the protective effect of SMEK1 in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the physiological and pathological roles of Smek1 in AD and other tauopathies are largely unclear. Here, the role of Smek1 in preventing neurodegeneration is investigated in tauopathy. Smek1 is downregulated in the aged human brain. Through single‐cell sequencing, a novel neuronal cluster is identified that possesses neurodegenerative characteristics in Smek1−/− mice. Smek1 deficiency caused markedly more severe motor and cognitive impairments in mice, as well as neuronal loss, gliosis, and tau hyperphosphorylation at major glycogen synthase kinase 3β (Gsk3β) sites. Protein‐protein interaction analysis revealed that the Ran‐binding domain (RanBD) in the N‐terminus of Smek1 facilitated binding with kinesin family member 2A (Kif2a). Depletion of Smek1 resulted in cytoplasmic aggregation of Kif2a, axon outgrowth defects, and impaired mitochondrial axonal trafficking. Downregulation of Kif2a markedly attenuated tau hyperphosphorylation and axon outgrowth defects in shSmek1 cells. For the first time, this study demonstrates that Smek1 deficiency progressively induces neurodegeneration by exacerbating tau pathology and mitochondrial dysfunction in an age‐dependent manner.
Blocking ACSL6 Compromises Autophagy via FLI1‐Mediated Downregulation of COLs to Radiosensitize Lung Cancer
Authors: Ding Wen , Bao Shijun , Zhao Qingwei , Hao Wei , Fang Kai , Xiao Yanlan , Lin Xiaoting , Zhao Zhemeng , Xu Xinyi , Cui Xinyue , Yang Xiwen , Yao Liuhuan , Jin Hai , Zhang Kun , Guo Jiaming
Published: August 2024

Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality worldwide. Radiotherapy is the main component of LC treatment; however, its efficacy is often limited by radioresistance development, resulting in unsatisfactory clinical outcomes. Here, we found that LC radiosensitivity is up‐regulated by decreased expression of long‐chain acyl‐CoA synthase 6 (ACSL6) after irradiation. Deletion of ACSL6 results in significant elevation of Friend leukemia integration 1 transcription factor (FLI1) and a marked decline of collagens (COLs). Blocking of ACSL6 impairs the tumor growth and upregulates FLI1, which reduces the levels of COLs and compromises irradiation‐induced autophagy, leading to considerable therapeutic benefits during radiotherapy. Moreover, the direct interaction between ACSL6 and FLI1 and engagement between FLI1 and COLs indicates the involvement of the ACSL6‐FLI1‐COL axis. Finally, the potently adjusted autophagy flux reduces its otherwise contributive capability in surviving irradiation stress and leads to satisfactory radiosensitization for LC radiotherapy. These results demonstrate that enhanced ACSL6 expression promotes the aggressive performance of irradiated LC through increased FLI1‐COL‐mediated autophagy flux. Thus, the ACSL6‐FLI1‐Col‐autophagy axis may be targeted to enhance the radiosensitivity of LC and improve the management of LC in radiotherapy.
Genomic Amplification of TBC1D31 Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through Reducing the Rab22A‐Mediated Endolysosomal Trafficking and Degradation of EGFR
Authors: Cao Pengbo , Chen Hongxia , Zhang Ying , Zhang Qi , Shi Mengting , Han Huihui , Wang Xiaowen , Jin Liang , Guo Bingqian , Hao Rongjiao , Zhao Xi , Li Yuanfeng , Gao Chengming , Liu Xinyi , Wang Yahui , Yang Aiqing , Yang Chenning , Si Anfeng , Li Hua , Song Qingfeng , He Fuchu , Zhou Gangqiao
Published: August 2024

Hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) are characterized by a vast spectrum of somatic copy number alterations (CNAs); however, their functional relevance is largely unknown. By performing a genome‐wide survey on prognosis‐associated focal CNAs in 814 HCC patients by an integrative computational framework based on transcriptomic data, genomic amplification is identified at 8q24.13 as a promising candidate. Further evidence is provided that the 8q24.13 amplification‐driven overexpression of Rab GTPase activating protein TBC1D31 exacerbates HCC growth and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo through activating Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling. Mechanistically, TBC1D31 acts as a Rab GTPase activating protein to catalyze GTP hydrolysis for Rab22A and then reduces the Rab22A‐mediated endolysosomal trafficking and degradation of EGFR. Notably, overexpression of TBC1D31 markedly increases the resistance of HCC cells to lenvatinib, whereas inhibition of the TBC1D31‐EGFR axis can reverse this resistance phenotype. This study highlights that TBC1D31 at 8q24.13 is a new critical oncogene, uncovers a novel mechanism of EGFR activation in HCC, and proposes the potential strategies for treating HCC patients with TBC1D31 amplification or overexpression.
Simultaneous Salt Rejection and Heat Localization Via Engineering Macrochannels in Morning Glory‐Shaped 3D Evaporator
Authors: Mao Zhengyi , Han Yicheng , Shen Junda , Zhang Lei , Xie Youneng , Liu Jiahua , Wu Haikun , Yu Zhen , Duan Xiaoguang , Zhang Yaoxin , Lu Jian
Published: August 2024

Solar desalination is a promising solution for alleviating water scarcity due to its low‐cost, environmentally friendly, and off‐grid capabilities. However, simultaneous salt rejection and heat localization remain challenging, as the rapid salt convection often results in considerable heat loss. Herein, this challenge is overcome via a facile design: i) isolating high‐temperature and high‐salt zones by rationally designing morning glory‐shaped wick structures and ii) bridging high‐salt zones and bulk water with low‐tortuosity macrochannels across low‐temperature surfaces. The salinity gradient in the macrochannels passively triggers convective flow, facilitating the rapid transfer of salt ions from the high‐salt zone to the bulk water. Meanwhile, the macrochannels are spatially isolated from the high‐temperature zone, preventing heat loss during salt convection and thereby achieving a high evaporation rate (≈3 kg m−2 h−1) and superior salt rejection even in highly concentrated real seawater. This work provides new insights into salt rejection strategies and advances practical applications for sustainable seawater desalination.
Dipole Orientation Engineering in Crosslinking Polymer Blends for High‐Temperature Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Pan Zizhao , Li Li , Jin Fei , Dong Jiufeng , Niu Yujuan , Sun Liang , Tan Li , Liu Yuqi , Wang Qing , Wang Hong
Published: August 2024

Polymer dielectrics that perform efficiently under harsh electrification conditions are critical elements of advanced electronic and power systems. However, developing polymer dielectrics capable of reliably withstanding harsh temperatures and electric fields remains a fundamental challenge, requiring a delicate balance in dielectric constant (K), breakdown strength (Eb), and thermal parameters. Here, amide crosslinking networks into cyano polymers is introduced, forming asymmetric dipole pairs with differing dipole moments. This strategy weakens the original electrostatic interactions between dipoles, thereby reducing the dipole orientation barriers of cyano groups, achieving dipole activation while suppressing polarization losses. The resulting styrene‐acrylonitrile/crosslinking styrene‐maleic anhydride (SAN/CSMA) blends exhibit a K of 4.35 and an Eb of 670 MV m−1 simultaneously at 120 °C, and ultrahigh discharged energy densities (Ue) with 90% efficiency of 8.6 and 7.4 J cm−3 at 120 and 150 °C are achieved, respectively, more than ten times that of the original dielectric at the same conditions. The SAN/CSMA blends show excellent cyclic stability in harsh conditions. Combining the results with SAN/CSMA and ABS (acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene copolymer)/CSMA blends, it is demonstrated that this novel strategy can meet the demands of high‐performing dielectric polymers at elevated temperatures.
Porous Structure Enhances the Longitudinal Piezoelectric Coefficient and Electromechanical Coupling Coefficient of Lead‐Free (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3
Authors: Li Zihe , Roscow James , Khanbareh Hamideh , Davies Philip R. , Han Guifang , Qin Jingyu , Haswell Geoff , Wolverson Daniel , Bowen Chris
Published: August 2024

The introduction of porosity into ferroelectric ceramics can decrease the effective permittivity, thereby enhancing the open circuit voltage and electrical energy generated by the direct piezoelectric effect. However, the decrease in the longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient (d33) with increasing porosity levels currently limiting the range of pore fractions that can be employed. By introducing aligned lamellar pores into (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3, this paper demonstrates an unusual 22–41% enhancement in the d33 compared to its dense counterpart. This unique combination of high d33 and a low permittivity leads to a significantly improved voltage coefficient (g33), energy harvesting figure of merit (FoM33) and electromechanical coupling coefficient (). The underlying mechanism for the improved properties is demonstrated to be a synergy between the low defect concentration and high internal polarizing field within the porous lamellar structure. This work provides insights into the design of porous ferroelectrics for applications related to sensors, energy harvesters, and actuators.
Microneedle‐Delivered PDA@Exo for Multifaceted Osteoarthritis Treatment via PI3K‐Akt‐mTOR Pathway
Authors: Li Zihua , Lu Hengli , Fan Limin , Ma Xiaoyi , Duan Zhengwei , Zhang Yiwei , Fu Yuesong , Wang Sen , Guan Yonghao , Yang Dong , Chen Qingjing , Xu Tianyang , Yang Yunfeng
Published: August 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is marked by cartilage deterioration, subchondral bone changes, and an inflammatory microenvironment. The study introduces the Microneedle‐Delivered Polydopamine‐Exosome (PDA@Exo MN), a therapeutic that not only preserves cartilage and promotes bone regeneration but also improves localized drug delivery through enhanced penetration capabilities. PDA@Exo MN shows strong reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging abilities and high biocompatibility, fostering osteogenesis and balancing anabolic and catabolic processes in cartilage. It directs macrophage polarization from M0 to the anti‐inflammatory M2 phenotype. RNA sequencing of treated chondrocytes demonstrates restored cellular function and activated antioxidant responses, with modulated inflammatory pathways. The PI3K‐AKT‐mTOR pathway's activation, essential for PDA@Exo's effects, is confirmed via bioinformatics and Western blot. In vivo assessments robustly validate that PDA@Exo MN prevents cartilage degradation and OA progression, supported by histological assessments and micro‐CT analysis, highlighting its disease‐modifying impact. The excellent biocompatibility of PDA@Exo MN, verified through histological (H&E) and blood tests showing no organ damage, underscores its safety and efficacy for OA therapy, making it a novel and multifunctional nanomedical approach in orthopedics, characterized by organ‐friendliness and biosecurity.
Fine‐Tuning the Microstructure and Photophysical Characteristics of Fluorescent Conjugated Copolymers Using Photoalignment and Liquid‐Crystal Ordering
Authors: Shi Yuping , Landfester Katharina , Morris Stephen M.
Published: August 2024

Replicating the microstructural basis and the near 100% excitation energy transfer efficiency in naturally occurring light‐harvesting complexes (LHCs) remains challenging in synthetic energy‐harvesting devices. Biological photosynthesis regulates active ensembles of light‐absorbing and funneling chlorophylls in proteins in response to fluctuating sunlight. Here, use of long‐range liquid crystal (LC) ordering to tailor chain orientation and packing structure in liquid crystalline conjugated polymer (LCCP) layers for bio‐mimicry of certain structural basis and light‐harvesting properties of LHCs is reported. It is found that long‐range orientational ordering in an LC phase of poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorene‐co‐benzothiadiazole) (F8BT) copolymer stabilizes a small fraction of randomly‐oriented F8BT nanocrystals dispersed in an amorphous matrix of F8BT chains, resembling a self‐doped host–guest system whereby excitation energy funneling and photoluminescence quantum efficiencies are enhanced significantly by triggering 3D donor‐to‐acceptor Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and dominant intrachain emission in the nano‐crystal acceptor. Further, photoalignment of nematic F8BT layers is combined with LC orientational ordering to fabricate large‐area‐extended monodomains exhibiting >60% crystallinity and ≈20 nm‐long interchain packing order. Remarkably, these monodomains demonstrate strong linearly polarized emission, whilst also promoting a new band‐edge absorption species and an extra emissive interchain excited state as compared to the non‐aligned films.
Mean girls
Authors: Adamakos Frosso
Published: August 2024

This innovative creative writing piece describes an emergency medicine physician's experience growing from adversity as a woman in medicine.
How the planarity of two dimensional covalent organic frameworks affect gas adsorption and diffusion: A data mining, simulation, and experiment united study
Authors: Ma Xue , Yang Shuna , Ma Nan , Zhang Yuan , Ding Zijun , Pan Rongyu , Chen Guojian , Long Zhouyang , Ying Yunpan , Tong Minman
Published: August 2024

The planarity of two‐dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D‐COFs) was demonstrated to show a significant and complex impact on their gas adsorption performance. However, the intrinsic mechanism underlying the intricate phenomenon remains unclear. Herein, a machine learning‐assisted data mining, simulation, and experiment combined study was performed to elucidate the complex impact of planar features of 2D‐COFs on gas adsorption and diffusion properties. A workflow was established for automatically assessing the planarity of 2D‐COFs. Compared with the flat configuration, the twisted and wavy configurations enhance the van der Waals interactions, promoting the adsorption of most nonpolar gases. Meanwhile, both the twisted and wavy configurations demonstrated an improved effect on gas diffusion. Gas adsorption and kinetic measurements on 2D‐COFs with similar physical and chemical properties but different planar features verified the theoretical finding. This work provides original insights and opens a new research paradigm for the study on the planarity of 2D‐COFs.
Platinum‐Metformin Conjugates Acting as Promising PD‐L1 Inhibitors through the AMP‐Activated Protein Kinase Mediated Lysosomal Degradation Pathway
Authors: Liu Bin , Liang Bing‐Bing , Cao Wan‐Di , Su Xu‐Xian , Cao Qian , Mao Zong‐Wan
Published: August 2024

With the development of metalloimmunology, the potential of platinum drugs in cancer immunotherapy has attracted extensive attention. Although immunochemotherapy combining PD‐1/PD−L1 antibodies with platinum drugs has achieved great success in the clinic, combination therapy commonly brings new problems. Herein, we have developed a platinum‐metformin conjugate as a promising alternative to antibody‐based PD−L1 inhibitors, not only disrupting PD‐1/PD−L1 axis on cell surface but also down‐regulating the total PD−L1 levels in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells comprehensively, thus achieving highly efficient immunochemotherapy by a single small molecule. Mechanism studies demonstrate that Pt‐metformin conjugate can selectively accumulate in lysosomes, promote lysosomal‐dependent PD−L1 degradation via the AMPK‐TFEB pathway, and modulate the upstream regulatory proteins related to PD−L1 expression (e.g. HIF‐1α and NF‐κB), eventually decreasing the total abundance of PD−L1 in NSCLC, overcoming tumor hypoxia, and activating anti‐tumor immunity in vivo. This work suggests an AMPK‐mediated lysosomal degradation pathway of PD−L1 for the first time and provides a unique design perspective for the development of novel platinum drugs for immunochemotherapy.
High‐Energy Ball Milling Enables an Ultra‐Fast Wittig Olefination Under Ambient and Solvent‐free Conditions
Authors: Templ Johanna , Schnürch Michael
Published: August 2024

30 Seconds to success!—The Wittig reaction, a fundamental and extensively utilized reaction in organic chemistry, enables the efficient conversion of carbonyl compounds to olefins using phosphonium salts. Traditionally, meticulous reaction setup, including the pre‐formation of a reactive ylide species via deprotonation of a phosphonium salt, is crucial for achieving high‐yielding reactions under classical solution‐based conditions. In this report, we present an unprecedented protocol for an ultra‐fast mechanically induced Wittig reaction under solvent‐free and ambient conditions, often eliminating the need for tedious ylide pre‐formation under strict air and moisture exclusion. A range of aldehydes and ketones were reacted with diverse phosphonium salts under high‐energy ball milling conditions, frequently giving access to the respective olefins in only 30 seconds.
Exploring Aqueous Solution‐Processed Pseudohalide Rare‐Earth Double Perovskite Ferroelectrics toward X‐Ray Detection with High Sensitivity
Authors: Wang Chang‐Feng , Yang Ye , Hu Yu , Ma Chuang , Ni Hao‐Fei , Liu Pei‐Guo , Lu Hai‐Feng , Zhang Zhi‐Xu , Wang Jianguo , Zhang Yujian , Fu Da‐Wei , Zhao Kui , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2024

Three‐dimensional (3D) pseudohalide rare‐earth double perovskites (PREDPs) have garnered significant attention for their versatile physical properties, including ferroelectricity, ferroelasticity, large piezoelectric responses, and circularly polarized luminescence. However, their potential for X‐ray detection remains unexplored, and the low Curie temperature (TC) limits the performance window for PREDP ferroelectrics. Here, by applying the chemical regulation strategies involving halogen substitution on the organic cation and Rb/Cs substitution to the PREDP [(R)‐M3HQ]2RbEu(NO3)6 [(R)‐M3HQ=(R)‐N‐methyl‐3‐hydroxylquinuclidinium] with a low TC of 285 K, a novel 3D PREDP ferroelectric [(R)‐CM3HQ]2CsEu(NO3)6 [(R)‐CM3HQ=(R)‐N‐chloromethyl‐3‐hydroxylquinuclidinium] are successfully synthesized, for which the TC reaches 344 K. More importantly, such a strategy endowed [(R)‐CM3HQ]2CsEu(NO3)6 with notable X‐ray detection capabilities. Centimeter‐sized [(R)‐CM3HQ]2CsEu(NO3)6 single crystals fabricated from aqueous solutions demonstrated a sensitivity of 1307 μC Gyair−1 cm−2 and a low detectable dose rate of 152 nGyair s−1, the highest sensitivity reported for hybrid double perovskite ferroelectric detectors. This work positions PREDPs as promising candidates for the next generation of eco‐friendly optoelectronic materials and also offers substantial insights into the interaction between structure, composition, and functionality in ferroelectric materials.
Ontogeny of the malleus in Mesocricetus auratus (Mammalia, Rodentia): Systematic and functional implications for the muroid middle ear
Authors: Fritzsche Franziska , Maier Wolfgang , Ruf Irina
Published: August 2024

The three mammalian auditory ossicles enhance sound transmission from the tympanic membrane to the inner ear. The anterior anchoring of the malleus is one of the key characters for functional classification of the auditory ossicles. Previous studies revealed a medial outgrowth of the mallear anterior process, the processus internus praearticularis, which serves as an anchor for the auditory ossicle chain but has been often missed due to its delicate nature. Here we describe the development and morphology of the malleus and its processus internus praearticularis in the cricetine rodent Mesocricetus auratus, compared to selected muroid species (Cricetus cricetus, Peromyscus maniculatus, and Mus musculus). Early postnatal stages of Mesocricetus show the formation of the malleus by fusion of the prearticular and mallear main body. The processus internus praearticularis forms an increasing broad lamina fused anteriorly to the ectotympanic in adult stages of all studied species. Peromyscus and Mus show a distinct orbicular apophysis that increases inertia of the malleus and therefore these species represent the microtype of auditory ossicles. In contrast, the center of mass of the malleus in the studied Cricetinae is close to the anatomical axis of rotation and their auditory ossicles represent the transitional type. The microtype belongs to the grundplan of Muroidea and is plesiomorphic for Cricetidae, whereas the transitional type evolved several times within Muroidea and represents an apomorphic feature of Cricetinae.
Feasibility and acceptability of a caregiver‐mediated early support program, delivered online, for infants at elevated familial likelihood for autism: A feasibility randomized controlled trial
Authors: Meera Shoba S. , Srikar Malavi , Raju Reny , Swaminathan Divya , Johnson Rachel Elizabeth , Watson Linda R. , Nair Deepa Bhat , Kommu John Vijay Sagar , Chopra‐McGowan Jo , Vasuki Prathyusha P.
Published: August 2024

Preliminary evidence indicates potential benefit of providing caregiver‐mediated intervention, prior to diagnosis, for infants at elevated familial likelihood for autism and related developmental delays including language delay (EL‐A). However, delivering such interventions online and in low‐resource settings like India has not been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of delivering a novel manualized caregiver‐mediated early support program, the “LiL' STEPS,” online in India, for EL‐A infants. LiL' STEPS stands for Language development & Intervention Lab's (LiL') Supporting Early social‐communication and language by Promoting caregiver Sensitive responsiveness (STEPS). The program comprised 14 sessions with a focus on social‐communication and language, conducted over 12‐weeks using demonstration and video feedback. Families of 36 EL‐A infants aged 9 to 15‐months participated in this feasibility randomized controlled trial (RCT). Families were randomized in a 2:1 ratio (n = 24 LiL' STEPS and n = 12 care as usual groups). Information on feasibility and acceptability was collated following a mixed methods approach from caregiver interviews, fidelity forms, session notes, and study register. Findings indicated the LiL' STEPS study trial as feasible and acceptable with recruitment rate of 4 per month, 100% willingness for randomization, 8.3% attrition, and 3.03% loss of blinding. Interventionist and caregiver fidelity was maintained above 80%. Despite challenges like interruptions during sessions, 100% families found the program acceptable and satisfactory, 86% said they would recommend the program to others, and 71% preferred online modality. Caregivers' perspectives on beneficial components and experience attending the program have been described. Accordingly, recommendations for future definitive RCTs have been presented.
Implementing circular business models for the second‐life battery of electric vehicles: Challenges and enablers from an ecosystem perspective
Authors: Toorajipour Reza , Chirumalla Koteshwar , Johansson Glenn , Dahlquist Erik , Wallin Fredrik
Published: August 2024

This study adopts an ecosystem perspective to provide a detailed understanding of key challenges and enablers for implementing circular business models for electric vehicle battery second life. Although academia and practitioners believe electric vehicle (EV) batteries' second life is a potential solution, the commercial implementations are still far away. A crucial step toward such implementations is to identify the key challenges and enablers of circular business models. The criticality of this step is even more evident when approaching second life business models from an ecosystem perspective, where multiple stakeholders are involved in the creation, capture, and delivery of value. This research conducts an explorative study with 15 companies in the EV battery ecosystem and identifies nine categories of key challenges and seven categories of key enablers. Based on priority dimensions (short/long term) and the responsible entity (firm/ecosystem related), the study proposes a guiding framework to address challenges and enablers. The study contributes to the circular business model innovation and ecosystems literature related to the EV battery second life.
Synthesis, Anti‐Oomycete and Anti‐Fungal Activities of Anhydride Derivatives of Oleanolic Acid
Authors: Wang Ruiguang , Li Yuanhao , Yin Wanying , Sun Huilu , Xu Shaobin , Shuang Shaoyan , Tian Yuee , Huang Xiaobo , Chen Genqiang , Che Zhiping
Published: August 2024

Oleanolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid extracted and isolated from the fruit of plants in the Ligustrum lucidum Ait. in the family Oleaceae. To discover biorational natural product‐based pesticides, a series of oleanolic acid derivatives containing anhydride active skeletons were prepared by ingeniously introducing an active acyloxy group at its C‐28 carboxyl position, and their structures were well characterized by 1H‐NMR, 13C NMR, HRMS, and m.p. The stereochemical configuration of compound 8 e was confirmed using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Furthermore, bioactivities of these compounds as anti‐oomycete and anti‐fungal agents against two serious agricultural pests, Phytophthora capsici (P. capsici) and Fusarium graminearum (F. graminearum) we assessed. Amongst evaluated compounds, 1) Compounds 8 h and 8 j displayed significant anti‐oomycete against P. capsici, with EC50 values of 54.73 and 65.15 mg/L, respectively. 2) The target compounds have obvious selectivity, and their anti‐oomycete activity is significantly better than their anti‐fungal activity. 3) Interestingly, there are significant differences in the structure‐activity relationship of different substituents or the same substituent at different positions anti‐oomycete and anti‐fungal against P. capsici and F. graminearum, respectively. The study provides an idea for further exploring the bioactivities of 28‐acyloxyoleanolic acid derivatives, and develops the application of 28‐acyloxyoleanolic acid derivatives containing anhydride in agriculture.
On‐Purpose Production of Light Olefins Through Oxidative Dehydrogenation: An Overview of Recent Developments
Authors: Mukherjee Arpan , Samanta Chanchal , Bordoloi Ankur
Published: August 2024

Products made from light olefins play an important role in our daily lives. Traditional light olefins production based on steam cracking and fluid catalytic cracking suffer from high energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Thereby, the continually increasing demand for light olefins needs to be met through more environmentally sustainable procedures. On‐purpose production routes are preferred choice among petrochemicals manufacturers, being energy efficient and having lower carbon footprint. Among them, oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of light paraffins is a thermodynamically favourable exothermic process as compared to non‐oxidative routes. They can be operated at lower temperatures and have propensity of low coke deposition on catalyst, thereby resisting rapid catalyst deactivation. Herein, we have analysed various catalytic systems utilised in the oxidative dehydrogenation process. We have reviewed role of support, chemical composition of catalyst, presence of dopant, oxidation state of active metal, controlled surface modification by oxidative and reductive pretreatments, and reaction factors for each system. The performance of various catalytic systems for ODH of ethane, propane and butane in the presence of O2, CO2, N2O and special oxidants have been reviewed. A short critical overview on emerging on‐purpose routes for the production of renewable 1,3 butadiene has also been discussed.
Plant health effects of fungicides alone and in combination with plant growth regulator on improving summer turf performance in annual bluegrass
Authors: McBride Sean , Murphy James A. , Huang Bingru
Published: August 2024

Annual bluegrass (Poa annua L.) is sensitive to high‐temperature stress, and approaches that can improve plant growth during summer months are important for golf courses managing P. annua putting greens. The objective of this 2‐year field trial was to determine plant health benefits for selected fungicides and the combination with a plant growth regulator (PGR), trinexapac‐ethyl (TE) on P. annua growth under putting green conditions during summer months. The following treatments were foliar sprayed at 14‐day intervals from June to September in 2020 and 2021: (1) untreated control with water, (2) Daconil Action, (3) Appear II, (4) Daconil Action and Appear II, and (5) Daconil Action, Appear II, and Primo Maxx (TE). Applying individual and combination treatments resulted in significant improvements on P. annua summer performance, as manifested by increased visual turf quality and other vegetation indices evaluated using multispectral radiometer (normalized difference vegetation index, leaf area index, and stress index or digital camera [percent canopy cover and dark green color index]) in both years. The combined treatment programs, Daconil Action and Appear II or Daconil Action, Appear II, and Primo Maxx were more effective than the untreated control and each individual treatment. The results suggest that there existed synergistic effects of multiple fungicides and PGR, which could be particularly useful in promoting plant health of P. annua under heat stress conditions.
Two‐Coordinate Dinuclear Donor‐Gold(I)‐Acceptor Complexes Exhibiting Multiple Excitation Wavelength Dependent Phosphorescence
Authors: Xiong Jinfan , Song Jia‐Xi , Chang Xiaoyong , Song Xiu‐Fang , Li Kai , Chen Yong
Published: August 2024

Two‐coordinate Au(I) complexes with a donor‐metal‐acceptor (D‐M‐A) structure have shown rich luminescent properties. However, charge‐neutral dinuclear donor‐metal‐acceptor type Au(I) complexes featuring aurophilic interactions have been seldom explored. Herein, we describe the structures and photoluminescence properties of two dinuclear Au(I) complexes, namely DiAu‐Ph and DiAu‐Me. Single crystal X‐ray structural analysis of DiAu‐Ph reveals a short intramolecular Au‐Au distance of 3.224 Å. In dilute solution and doped films, excitation wavelength dependent multiple phosphorescence phenomena were observed for these dinuclear complexes. Theoretical calculations reveal that the aurophilic interaction causes increased contribution of the Au d orbital to the highest occupied molecular orbitals. Thus, the gap between singlet and triplet excited states (ΔEST) is enlarged, which disables the thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). Moreover, the large energy separation (0.45–0.52 eV) and the different orbital configurations between the various excited states result in an inefficient internal conversion, accounting for their multiple phosphorescence properties.
Pd/C–Catalyzed Selective N‐Monomethylation by Transfer Hydrogenation of Urea Derivatives using Methanol as H2 and C1 Sources
Authors: Kamaraj Kiruthigadevi , H. Dixneuf Pierre , Sundaram Ganesh Babu , Reek Joost N. H. , Beromeo Bheeter Charles
Published: August 2024

N‐monomethyl amines are useful intermediates in drugs, natural products, paints. Yet their synthesis is a tremendous challenge due to their high reactivity, typically leading to overmethylation. In this contribution, a highly selective catalytic N‐methylation methodology is reported, converting urea derivatives to monomethylated amines, using a commercially available heterogeneous Pd/C catalyst and methanol as unique reagent. Methanol provides a sustainable alternative protocol for the selective preparation of mono‐methylated derivatives as it acts as both H2 and C1 sources. In addition, several control experiments were performed to provide a proposal for the mechanism, namely dehydrogenation of methanol and subsequent hydrogenation of urea derivatives, followed by reduction of the in situ formed methyl imine. Importantly, the approach is simple, highly productive and enables novel synthetic procedures for the preparation of monomethylamines from urea derivatives.
Amplifying Reactivity of Bio‐Inspired [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase Mimics by Organic Nanotubes
Authors: Ahmed Md Estak , Das Puspendu , Ahamed Sk Mustak , Chattopadhyay Samir , Nayek Abhijit , Mondal Mintu , Malik Sudip , Dey Abhishek
Published: August 2024

A bio‐inspired FeFe hydrogenase model which catalyses hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic solutions is immobilized in polyaniline (PANI)‐based nanotubes. A combination of analytical techniques reveals that this construct maintains both the molecular signatures of the bio‐inspired complex and the material properties of PANI. The amine and imine‐rich environment of the PANI chain amplifies the inherent HER activity of the bio‐inspired complex, allowing electrocatalytic HER at neutral pH, with lower overpotentials and higher current densities compared to the bio‐inspired complex alone. This construct retains the oxygen stability of the bio‐inspired complex and remains stable through several hours of aerobic electrolysis, producing only 6.5 % H₂O₂ from the competing oxygen reduction reaction (ORR).
Synthesis, Reactivity, and Bonding Analysis of a Tetracoordinated Nickel Carbene
Authors: Pérez‐García Pablo M. , Sansores‐Paredes María L. G. , Fonseca Guerra Célia , Vermeeren Pascal , Moret Marc‐Etienne
Published: August 2024

Nickel carbenes are key reactive intermediates in the catalytic cyclopropanation of olefins and other reactions, but isolated examples are scarce and generally rely on low coordination numbers (≤3) to stabilize the metal−ligand multiple bond. Here we report the isolation and characterization of a stable tetracoordinated nickel carbene bearing a triphosphine pincer ligand. Its nucleophilic character is evidenced by reaction with acids, and it can transfer the carbene fragment to CO to form a ketene. A computational study of the Ni=C chemical bond sheds light on the role of the third phosphine in the pincer framework to the stabilization of the nickel carbene fragment.
“Catch the CO2” – Carbon dioxide absorption in a school experiment as an example for gas absorption experiments in the classroom
Authors: Mauch Julian , Rubner Isabel
Published: August 2024

Die Absorption von Kohlenstoffdioxid (CO2) ist aus nachhaltigen Gründen von großer Bedeutung. In diesem Experiment wird der Prozess anschaulich dargestellt, wobei relevante Einflussfaktoren berücksichtigt werden. Ein neu entwickeltes Messsystem ermöglicht es Schüler:innen, den Absorptionsvorgang von CO2 aus der Luft eigenständig durchzuführen und quantitativ zu erfassen. Dabei werden Parameter chemischer Reaktionen, wie der Einfluss von Temperatur und Konzentration, untersucht. Durch den Vergleich dieser Faktoren und deren Auswirkungen auf die Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit werden die Einflussfaktoren bei chemischen Gleichgewichtsreaktionen behandelt. Zur präzisen Messung wird ein hochwertiger CO2‐Sensor verwendet, dessen Auswerteelektronik als Bausatz selbst angefertigt werden kann. Die Auswertung der Messdaten erfolgt über ein Tabellenkalkulationsprogramm. Dieses Experiment und die Sensorik verdeutlichen das interdisziplinäre Arbeiten zwischen den Fächern Naturwissenschaft und Technik (NwT) sowie Chemie.
Utilization of an artificial intelligence–enhanced, web‐based application to review bile duct brushing cytologic specimens: A pilot study
Authors: Marya Neil B. , Powers Patrick D. , Bois Melanie C. , Hartley Christopher , Kerr Sarah E. , Thangaiah Judith Jebastin , Norton Daniel , Abu Dayyeh Barham K. , Cantley Richard , Chandrasekhara Vinay , Gores Gregory , Gleeson Ferga C. , Law Ryan J. , Maleki Zahra , Martin John A. , Pantanowitz Liron , Petersen Bret , Storm Andrew C. , Levy Michael J. , Graham Rondell P.
Published: August 2024

Background

The authors previously developed an artificial intelligence (AI) to assist cytologists in the evaluation of digital whole‐slide images (WSIs) generated from bile duct brushing specimens. The aim of this trial was to assess the efficiency and accuracy of cytologists using a novel application with this AI tool.

Methods

Consecutive bile duct brushing WSIs from indeterminate strictures were obtained. A multidisciplinary panel reviewed all relevant information and provided a central interpretation for each WSI as being “positive,” “negative,” or “indeterminate.” The WSIs were then uploaded to the AI application. The AI scored each WSI as positive or negative for malignancy (i.e., computer‐aided diagnosis [CADx]). For each WSI, the AI prioritized cytologic tiles by the likelihood that malignant material was present in the tile. Via the AI, blinded cytologists reviewed all WSIs and provided interpretations (i.e., computer‐aided detection [CADe]). The diagnostic accuracies of the WSI evaluation via CADx, CADe, and the original clinical cytologic interpretation (official cytologic interpretation [OCI]) were compared.

Results

Of the 84 WSIs, 15 were positive, 42 were negative, and 27 were indeterminate after central review. The WSIs generated on average 141,950 tiles each. Cytologists using the AI evaluated 10.5 tiles per WSI before making an interpretation. Additionally, cytologists required an average of 84.1 s of total WSI evaluation. WSI interpretation accuracies for CADx (0.754; 95% CI, 0.622–0.859), CADe (0.807; 95% CI, 0.750–0.856), and OCI (0.807; 95% CI, 0.671–0.900) were similar.

Conclusions

This trial demonstrates that an AI application allows cytologists to perform a triaged review of WSIs while maintaining accuracy.
Dipicolinate‐Ruthenium‐NHC/trpy Complexes: Pincer Ligand Induced Hemilability of Dipicolinate and Enhancement of Cytotoxic Property
Authors: Dhibar Papu , Chandra Anushri , Kundu Sweta , Acharya Chowdhury Avik , Bhattacharya Samaresh
Published: August 2024

A ruthenium(II) aquo complex [Ru(dipic)(PPh3)2(OH2)], (1 A), bearing O,N,O‐coordinated 2,6‐dipicolinate was synthesized via reaction of [Ru(PPh3)3Cl2] with 2,6‐dipicolinic acid. Crystal structure of 1 A was determined. Utilizing 1 A as a synthon, three new complexes were synthesized. Reaction of 1 A with a bidentate NHC‐ligand, viz. 1‐methyl‐3‐(2′‐pyridyl)imidazole (IMeCN), afforded [Ru(dipic)(IMeCN)(PPh3)], (2 A). Similar reactions of 1 A with two pincer ligands, viz. 2,6‐bis(1′‐methyl imidazolyl)pyridine (IMeCNC) and 2,2′;6′,2“‐terpyridine (trpy), respectively yielded [Ru(dipic)(IMeCNC)(PPh3)], (3 A) and [Ru(dipic)(trpy)(PPh3)], (3 B). Structure of 2 A was optimized by DFT method. Structures of 3 A and 3 B were determined by X‐ray crystallography. In both 3 A and 3B the 2,6‐dipicolinate ligand was found to be N,O‐coordinated with one carboxy end remaining unbound to the metal center. Anticancer property of 2 A, 3 A and 3 B was studied and compared. Cytotoxicity of 3 A, studied against three selected cancer cell lines, viz. chronic myelogenous leukemia cell line (K562), hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG2) and breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF7), was found to be the most promising. It displayed the best activity against K562, while it did not have any appreciable effect on its normal counterpart, viz. the human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMC). The comparative cytotoxicity studies indicated that presence of the C,N,C‐coordinated pincer NHC ligand in 3 A, together with presence of the free carboxylate end of N,O‐coordinated dipic ligand, are presumably responsible for its superior cytotoxic behavior.
An improved catastrophe progression method based on HMSLGWO–AHP for grouting quality assessment
Authors: Zhu Yushan , Yang Zhu , Li Ning , Huang Jian
Published: August 2024

Assessing the quality of grouting is a crucial step in the control of grouting construction. The evaluation methods of existing studies are complex, and the evaluation process often suffers from the subjective influence of indicator weightings, detracting from the objectivity of the results. To address these concerns, a streamlined and efficacious comprehensive assessment model is introduced. The model incorporates the catastrophe progression method, which obviates the need for index weight determination. Subsequently, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method improved by the hierarchical multi‐strategy learning gray wolf optimization (HMSLGWO) algorithm is employed to determine the relative significance of indices, in which, the HMSLGWO algorithm, augmented by Gaussian mixture model clustering and multi‐strategy learning, optimizes the consistency of the AHP judgment matrix. This enhancement mitigates the complexity and subjective interference associated with manual adjustments while preserving result accuracy. Additionally, modifications to the result representation of the original catastrophe progression method enhance the clarity of assessment expressions. Finally, a case study of an actual grouting initiative, alongside comparative analyses, substantiates the model's efficacy and applicability.
Synthesis of Co–ZnAl‐Layered Double Hydroxide for Effective Activation of Peroxymonosulfate to Degrade Rhodamine B and Methyl Orange from Polluted Water
Authors: Rasheed Hafiza Mehwish , Ding Chunsheng , Xu Minghua , Zaman Bilal , Ruan Xiaowen , Cui Xiaoqiang
Published: August 2024

Innovative technologies based on the sulfate radical advanced oxidation process are attracting more attention for the degradation of dyes in impure water. Herein, cobalt‐doped zinc aluminum layered double hydroxide (LDH) catalysts are synthesized based on the assembly of LDHs for efficient activation of peroxymonosulfate and simultaneous catalytic degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) and methyl orange (MO). Cobalt metal is incorporated into the ZnAl‐LDH lattice to accelerate the catalytic performance of ZnAl‐LDHs. The experimental results show that the Co–ZnAl‐LDH (Co = 0.05 mmol) system demonstrates remarkable degradation of RhB and MO with maximum degradation efficiencies of 98.97% and 98.04%, respectively, through the attack of reactive oxygen species and electron transfer processes. Furthermore, the structural stability and catalytic performance of the catalyst make it promising for practical water treatment as well as promoting its reuse ability.
Chemical composition, anti‐hypertensive properties, and sensory attributes of salt extracted from ash of Hygrophilia schulli
Authors: Mengistu Degsew , Getachew Paulos
Published: August 2024

The traditional usage of salt taken from vegetables for the treatment of blood pressure and diabetes is seen in several regions of Ethiopia, particularly in Gambella. The aim of the study was to investigate the mineral content, anti‐hypertensive properties, and sensory attributes of salt obtained from the Hygrophilia schulli. The salt was extracted from the ashing of stems of Hygrophilia schulli. Optical Emission Spectroscopy with Inductively Coupled Plasma was used to identify macro‐minerals, micro‐minerals, and some toxic metals. Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy was used to assess the levels of arsenic and mercury. The anti‐hypertensive property of the salt was determined in vivo using the Wistar rats. The extracted salt was rich in potassium and was deficient in sodium from the analyzed macro‐minerals. It was free from mercury, cadmium, chromium, and arsenic. Lead and nickel were below the Tolerable Weekly Intake Provisional specified by the European Union. Among carbonate and sulfate, chloride was the main anion in this salt. The salt was discovered to have a low taste characteristic compared to common salt. However, the taste attribute of the combination of vegetable and common salt in different proportions was better than common salt. Rats fed with salt from Hygrophilia schulli showed a statistically significant lower systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure compared to normal‐fed and common salt‐fed rat groups. Generally, this study suggests that Hygrophilia schulli salt has the potential to be a viable alternative to common salt, particularly for those suffering from hypertension and other related chronic conditions.
Aging Effects Observed in Automotive Fuel Cell Stacks by Applying a New Realistic Test Protocol and Humidity Control
Authors: Schmid M. A. , Kaczerowski J. , Wilhelm F. , Scholta J. , Müller B. , Hölzle M.
Published: August 2024

Traditional automotive proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) endurance testing relies on the fuel cell (FC) dynamic load cycle (FC‐DLC) protocol, which inadequately reflects real‐world driving conditions. To address this limitation the “Investigations on degradation mechanisms and Definition of protocols for PEM Fuel cells Accelerated Stress Testing” (ID‐FAST) consortium defined the new representative “ID‐FAST driving load cycle,” a novel approach capturing the load distribution, transitions, temperature variations, and humidity fluctuations experienced by FCs in real‐world operation. We demonstrate the ID‐FAST driving cycle itself and the integration into a realistic durability test program for FC test benches and present the resulting test data. Furthermore, we showcase its implementation within an accelerated stress testing (AST) protocol, highlighting its potential to significantly reduce testing time by accelerating degradation. Additionally, a novel method for highly dynamic humidity adjustment within test benches is introduced. By overcoming limitations of existing methods and incorporating the ID‐FAST driving cycle, this work paves the way for a new era of efficient and realistic FC endurance testing, ultimately contributing to the development of more robust and durable automotive FC stacks.