bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐Life High‐Voltage Sodium‐Ion Batteries Enabled by Electrolytes with Cooperative Na+‐Solvation
Authors: Liu Yumei , Gong Yongqing , Chen Ke , Zhu Lujun , An Yun , Ozoemena Kenneth I. , Hua Weibo , Yang Menghao , Pang Quanquan
Published: April 2024

Stabilizing the electrode interphases is urgently required to enhance the lifetime of high‐voltage sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). However, the continuous anode solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI) growth associated with electron leakage and the fragile cathode–electrolyte interphase (CEI) lead to capacity fade at high voltage; and yet the solvation‐interphase‐performance relationship is inadequately addressed. Herein, a cooperative Na+‐solvation strategy is reported to stabilize the interphases by a holistic design of electrolytes combining soft and moderate co‐solvents. The rationally regulated Na+‐solvation leads to CEI/SEI with the desired thickness and component stability. As such, remarkable cycling stability is achieved for 4.3‐V Na3V2O2(PO4)2F (NVOPF) cathodes with 83.3% capacity retention over 3000 cycles at 1 C, significantly outperforming the carbonate counterpart (41.6% capacity retention). Meanwhile, the restrained SEI growth via reducing the formation of electron‐leaking Na2CO3 stabilizes the long‐term cycling of the hard carbon (HC) anode. The assembled NVOPF||HC full cells achieve superior rate capability (up to 15 C) and stable cycling stability over 500 cycles. The demonstrated engineering of electrolyte chemistry, Na+‐solvation, and interphase structure/component contributes toward the rational establishment of design rules for high‐voltage SIBs and possibly other similar chemistries.
Atomic‐Scale Engineering for New Generation Air Electrode Materials of Solid Oxide Cells: Quintuple Perovskite Sm2Ba3Co2Fe3O15‐δ with Twinned Crystal Structure
Authors: Sun Zhipeng , Shen Zhuoli , Du Zhihong , Zhang Yang , Gong Yue , Zhang Min , Wang Kexin , Świerczek Konrad , Zeng Jianrong , Zhao Hailei
Published: April 2024

The catalytic activity and thermomechanical stability of electrode materials are crucial for the efficient operation of reversible solid oxide cell (rSOC). However, these two traits often impose limitations on one another. In this work, a unique quintuple perovskite Sm2Ba3Co2Fe3O15‐δ (SBCF‐5L), comprising of A‐site ordered double perovskite layers and disordered simple perovskite layers, is reported as a high‐performance air electrode material for rSOC. The designed SBCF‐5L material exhibits a highly symmetrical tetragonal structure (pseudo‐cubic) with an isotropic thermal expansion and a limited chemical expansion. The formation barriers for oxygen vacancies are comparable between A‐site ordered layers and disordered simple perovskite layers, resulting in a high concentration of oxygen vacancies and 3D‐like bulk mobility of oxygen ions. Perpendicularly twinned nanodomains are developed in the particles, providing more active sites for surface electrode reaction. When applied in electrolyte‐supported cells, the SBCF‐5L electrode exhibits excellent electrochemical performance with low polarization resistance of 0.017 Ω cm−2, high power density of 1.01 W cm−2 and high electrolysis current density of 1.08 A cm−2 at 1.3 V at 800 °C in fuel cell and electrolysis modes, respectively. This study introduces a new approach of atomic‐scale engineering to rationally design a new generation of air electrodes for rSOC.
Perovskitizer Tuning Pb2+ 6s2 Lone Pair Effects in Hybrid Perovskite Halide Enables Multiaxial Self‐Powered X‐Ray Detection
Authors: Li Ruiqing , Xu Bohui , Wu Jianbo , You Shihai , Zhang Chengshu , Ji Chengmin , Lin Zheshuai , Luo Junhua
Published: April 2024

The stereochemical expression of the ns2 lone pair significantly impacts symmetry breaking and corresponding photoelectric properties. However, hindered by the symmetric octahedral configuration, the Pb2+ 6s2 lone pair in the well‐conductive lead halide hybrid perovskites (LHHP) are normally stereo‐inactive, new approaches to activate the 6s2 lone pair are still greatly desired. Herein, by exploiting a perovskitizer tuning Pb2+ lone pair method, the study successfully obtains a stereo‐active 6s2 in the polar perovskite PA2MHy2Pb3Br10 (PMPB, PA = n‐propylamine, MHy = methylhydrazine), and unprecedentedly performs a multiaxial self‐powered X‐ray detection. In detail, the stereo‐active 6s2 lone pair is caused by the coordination bond between the perovskitizer MHy and Pb atom. Emphatically, the N‐Pb bond induces a large angular distortion parameter (≈45 times larger than other LHHP) and the lowest‐symmetric space group (P1) crystallization. Therefore, PMPB natively contains multiaxial polarization, which acts as the driving force to separate and transport the X‐ray‐generated carriers, thus enabling multiaxial self‐powered X‐ray detection with a low detection limit (129 nGy s−1). This work reveals the relationship between stereo‐active lone pair and polarization and sheds light on future X‐ray detection.
Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly of Renal‐Targeted Polymeric Nanoparticles for Robust Arginase‐2 Knockdown and Contrast‐Induced Acute Kidney Injury Prevention
Authors: Gu Xu‐rui , Tai Yi‐fan , Liu Zhen , Zhang Xin‐yan , Liu Kun , Zhou Ling‐yun , Yin Wen‐jun , Deng Yi‐xuan , Kong De‐ling , Midgley Adam C. , Zuo Xiao‐cong
Published: April 2024

The mitochondrial enzyme arginase‐2 (Arg‐2) is implicated in the pathophysiology of contrast‐induced acute kidney injury (CI‐AKI). Therefore, Arg‐2 represents a candid target for CI‐AKI prevention. Here, layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembled renal‐targeting polymeric nanoparticles are developed to efficiently deliver small interfering RNA (siRNA), knockdown Arg‐2 expression in renal tubules, and prevention of CI‐AKI is evaluated. First, near‐infrared dye‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) anionic cores are electrostatically coated with cationic chitosan (CS) to facilitate the adsorption and stabilization of Arg‐2 siRNA. Next, nanoparticles are coated with anionic hyaluronan (HA) to provide protection against siRNA leakage and shielding against early clearance. Sequential electrostatic layering of CS and HA improves loading capacity of Arg‐2 siRNA and yields LbL‐assembled nanoparticles. Renal targeting and accumulation is enhanced by modifying the outermost layer of HA with a kidney targeting peptide (HA‐KTP). The resultant kidney‐targeting and siRNA loaded nanoparticles (PLGA/CS/HA‐KTP siRNA) exhibit proprietary accumulation in kidneys and proximal tubular cells at 24 h post‐tail vein injection. In iohexol‐induced in vitro and in vivo CI‐AKI models, PLGA/CS/HA‐KTP siRNA delivery alleviates oxidative and nitrification stress, and rescues mitochondrial dysfunction while reducing apoptosis, thereby demonstrating a robust and satisfactory therapeutic effect. Thus, PLGA/CS/HA‐KTP siRNA nanoparticles offer a promising candidate therapy to protect against CI‐AKI.
Ultrasmall Inorganic Mesoporous Nanoparticles: Preparation, Functionalization, and Application
Authors: Wang Jie , Fan Xiankai , Han Xiao , Lv Kangle , Zhao Yujuan , Zhao Zaiwang , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: April 2024

Ultrasmall mesoporous nanoparticles (<50 nm), a unique porous nanomaterial, have been widely studied in many fields in the last decade owing to the abundant advantages, involving rich mesopores, low density, high surface area, numerous reaction sites, large cavity space, ultrasmall size, etc. This paper presents a review of recent advances in the preparation, functionalization, and applications of ultrasmall inorganic mesoporous nanoparticles for the first time. The soft monomicelles‐directed method, in contrast to the hard‐template and template‐free methods, is more flexible in the synthesis of mesoporous nanoparticles. This is because the amphiphilic micelle has tunable functional blocks, controlled molecule masses, configurations and mesostructures. Focus on the soft micelle directing method, monomicelles could be classified into four types, i.e., the Pluronic‐type block copolymer monomicelles, laboratory‐synthesized amphiphilic block copolymers monomicelles, the single‐molecule star‐shaped block copolymer monomicelles, and the small‐molecule anionic/cationic surfactant monomicelles. This paper also reviews the functionalization of the inner mesopores and the outer surfaces, which includes constructing the yolkshell structures (encapsulated nanoparticles), anchoring the active components packed on the shell and building an asymmetric Janus architecture. Then, several representative applications, involving catalysis, energy storage, and biomedicines are presented. Finally, the prospects and challenges of controlled synthesis and large‐scale applications of ultrasmall mesoporous nanoparticles in the future are foreseen.
Less is More: Asymmetric D–A Type Agent to Achieve Dynamic Self‐Assembled Nanoaggregates for Long‐Acting Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Xu Ruohan , Shen Qifei , Zhang Peijuan , Wang Zhi , Xu Yanzi , Meng Lingjie , Dang Dongfeng
Published: April 2024

To enhance the phototheranostic performance, agents with high reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, good tumor‐targeting ability, and prolonged retention are urgently needed. However, symmetric donor–acceptor (D–A) type agents usually produce spherical nanoaggregates, leading to good tumor targeting but inferior retention. Rod‐like nanoaggregates are desired to extend their retention in tumors; however, this remains a challenge. In particular, agents with dynamically changeable shapes that integrate merits of different morphologies are seldomly reported. Therefore, self‐assembled organic nanoaggregates with smart shape tunability are designed here using an asymmetric D–A type TIBT. The photoluminescence quantum yield in solids is up to 52.24% for TIBT. TIBT also exhibits high ROS generation in corresponding nanoaggregates (TIBT‐NCs). Moreover, dynamic self‐assembly in shape changing from nanospheres to nanorods occurrs in TIBT‐NCs, contributing to the enhancement of ROS quantum yield from 0.55 to 0.72. In addition, dynamic self‐assembly can be observed for both in vitro and in vivo, conferring TIBT‐NCs with strong tumor targeting and prolonged retention. Finally, efficient photodynamic therapy to inhibit tumor growth is achieved in TIBT‐NCs, with an inhibition rate of 90%. This work demonstrates that asymmetric D–A type agents can play significant roles in forming self‐assembled organic nanoaggregates, thus showing great potential in long‐acting cancer therapy.
Highly Reliable Diamond MEMS Dual Sensor for Magnetic Fields and Temperatures with Self‐Recognition Algorithms
Authors: Zhang Zilong , Gu Keyun , Chen Guo , Sang Liwen , Teraji Tokuyuki , Koide Yasuo , Koizumi Satoshi , Toda Masaya , Liao Meiyong
Published: April 2024

Nearly all sensors inevitably suffer from environmental influence such as temperature fluctuation. To precisely process the external signals, independent temperature compensation devices or electronic circuits are usually required, making the overall system and algorithms sophisticated. Especially, when the environment temperature is as high as over 200 °C, both the sensors and temperature‐compensation devices encounter the reliability problem. In this work, an intelligent multifunctional sensor utilizing single‐crystal diamond (SCD) microelectromechanical (MEMS) resonators is demonstrated that can sense both magnetic fields and temperatures up to 300 °C, independently. The strategy is to integrate a magnetostrictive thin film and a non‐magnetic thin film on different diamond MEMS resonators on the same diamond chip for simultaneous magnetic field sensing and temperature monitoring, respectively. The multi‐resonators based on diamond MEMS offer a promising platform for multi‐parameter sensing immune to environment interference.
Expanding THz Vortex Generation Functionality with Advanced Spiral Zone Plates Based on Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Films
Authors: Radivon Arina V. , Katyba Gleb M. , Raginov Nikita I. , Chernykh Aleksey V. , Ezerskii Aleksei S. , Tsiplakova Elizaveta G. , Rakov Ignat I. , Paukov Maksim I. , Starchenko Vladimir V. , Arsenin Aleksey V. , Spector Igor E. , Zaytsev Kirill I. , Krasnikov Dmitry V. , Petrov Nikolay V. , Nasibulin Albert G. , Volkov Valentyn , Burdanova Maria G.
Published: April 2024

Optical elements based on nanomaterials are becoming major avenues to satisfy the technological requirements of compact, lightweight, and tunable elements of the emerging terahertz (THz) field. A new generation of diffractive components integrating specific geometry with additional features (flexibility, stretchability, rotation, and other approaches for tuning properties) extends the functionality of wavefront control. Here, an innovative approach is demonstrated to control the THz wavefront via a layered composition of spiral zone plates (SZPs) with tunable mutual orientation and scaling. As a proof of concept, the SZP is designed using Laguerre‐Gauss mode analysis with further fabrication and experimental characterization of the resultant vortex beams. For each single SZP, a flexible element is proposed based on a thin film of single‐walled carbon nanotubes deposited on a stretchable substrate. Thus, this diffraction element can be tuned not only by rotation (along the azimuthal direction), but also by its stretching (in the radial direction). The spatial tuning of the developed SZPs (spiral zone plates) opens up an efficient, convenient, and highly customizable approach for the manipulation of vortex beams.
Tailoring Electronic Properties of 6H‐SiC with Different Composition of Silicon by First‐Principles Calculations
Authors: Sharif Muhammad N. , Yang Jingshu , Zhang Xiaokun , Tang Yehua , Yang Gui , Wang Ke‐Fan
Published: April 2024

Silicon carbide (SiC) is used in a variety of applications including photovoltaic due to its high stability. The wide bandgap of SiC limits these applications and necessitates bandgap tuning toward lower energy for efficient solar absorption. In this regard, the electronic properties of highly stable SiC polytype 6H‐SiC are studied by first‐principles calculations. By varying the Si composition of 6H‐SiC the electronic properties are tailored. The calculated results show that increasing the Si composition of 6H‐SiC from 50% to 66.66% reduces the bandgap from 2.98 to 1.54 eV. It is observed that this reduction in bandgap occurs due to the addition of extra Si s/p orbitals which close the conduction band and valance band. From the electronic conductivity calculations, it is found that with increasing Si composition of 6H‐SiC the conductivity is improved due to higher hole density which can be verified by the spectrum peaks shifted toward near‐infrared and visible region.
Robust Superconductivity in Infinite‐Layer Nickelates
Authors: Xu Minghui , Zhao Yan , Chen Yu , Ding Xiang , Leng Huaqian , Hu Zheng , Wu Xiaoqiang , Yi Jiabao , Yu Xiaojiang , Breese Mark B.H. , Xi Shibo , Li Mengsha , Qiao Liang
Published: April 2024

The recent discovery of nickelate superconductivity represents an important step toward understanding the four‐decade mastery of unconventional high‐temperature superconductivity. However, the synthesis of the infinite‐layer nickelate superconductors shows great challenges. Particularly, surface capping layers are usually unitized to facilitate the sample synthesis. This leads to an important question whether nickelate superconductors with d9 configuration and ultralow valence of Ni1+ are in metastable state and whether nickelate superconductivity can be robust? In this work, a series of redox cycling experiments are performed across the phase transition between perovskite Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO3 and infinite‐layer Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO2. The infinite‐layer Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO2 is quite robust in the redox environment and can survive the cycling experiments with unchanged crystallographic quality. However, as the cycling number goes on, the perovskite Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO3 shows structural degradation, suggesting stability of nickelate superconductivity is not restricted by the ultralow valence of Ni1+, but by the quality of its perovskite precursor. The observed robustness of infinite‐layer Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO2 up to ten redox cycles further indicates that if an ideal high‐quality perovskite precursor can be obtained, infinite‐layer nickelate superconductivity can be very stable and sustainable under environmental conditions. This work provides important implications for potential device applications for nickelate superconductors.
Heparan Sulfate Chain‐Conjugated Laminin‐E8 Fragments Advance Paraxial Mesodermal Differentiation Followed by High Myogenic Induction from hiPSCs
Authors: Zhao Mingming , Taniguchi Yukimasa , Shimono Chisei , Jonouchi Tatsuya , Cheng Yushen , Shimizu Yasuhiro , Nalbandian Minas , Yamamoto Takuya , Nakagawa Masato , Sekiguchi Kiyotoshi , Sakurai Hidetoshi
Published: April 2024

Human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have great therapeutic potential. The cell source differentiated from hiPSCs requires xeno‐free and robust methods for lineage‐specific differentiation. Here, a system is described for differentiating hiPSCs on new generation laminin fragments (NGLFs), a recombinant form of a laminin E8 fragment conjugated to the heparan sulfate chains (HS) attachment domain of perlecan. Using NGLFs, hiPSCs are highly promoted to direct differentiation into a paraxial mesoderm state with high‐efficiency muscle lineage generation. HS conjugation to the C‐terminus of Laminin E8 fragments brings fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) bound to the HS close to the cell surface of hiPSCs, thereby facilitating stronger FGF signaling pathways stimulation and initiating HOX gene expression, which triggers the paraxial mesoderm differentiation of hiPSCs. This highly efficient differentiation system can provide a roadmap for paraxial mesoderm development and an infinite source of myocytes and muscle stem cells for disease modeling and regenerative medicine.
Carbon‐Efficient CO2Electrolysis to Ethylene with Nanoporous Hydrophobic Copper
Authors: Papangelakis Panagiotis , Shayesteh Zeraati Ali , O'Brien Colin P. , Bonnenfant Loann , Dorakhan Roham , Gabardo Christine M. , Young Daniel , Kong Jonathan , Azimi Dijvejin Zahra , Najarian Amin Morteza , Park Sungjin , Shin Heejong , Miao Rui Kai , Ip Alexander , Golovin Kevin , Sargent Edward H. , Sinton David
Published: April 2024

Electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction offers a low‐carbon route to ethylene, when powered from renewable energy. Yet, the best‐performing CO2electrolysis systems employ neutral or alkaline electrolytes, resulting in low conversion efficiencies, which increases downstream separation costs. High conversion rates can be achieved with acidic electrolytes, albeit at the cost ethylene faradaic efficiency (FE < 45%). As a result, achieving high ethylene selectivity simultaneously with high conversion efficiency is an unmet challenge. Here, a 3D‐nanoporous catalyst is designed to modulate water and CO2concentration at the catalyst surface, reaching higher ethylene selectivity in a forward‐bias bipolar MEA that recovers unreacted CO2. An ethylene FE of 63% at 150 mA cm−2is reported, and by optimizing for conversion efficiency, an ethylene FE of 58% along with an overall conversion efficiency of 82% is achieved. Stable performance for > 65 h at industrial current densities combined with a high ethylene concentration in the product stream showcases promising industrial viability.
Catalytic Asymmetric Redox‐Neutral [3+2] Photocycloadditions of Cyclopropyl Ketones with Vinylazaarenes Enabled by Consecutive Photoinduced Electron Transfer
Authors: Wei Wenhui , Li Chunyang , Fan Yifan , Chen Xiaowei , Zhao Xiaowei , Qiao Baokun , Jiang Zhiyong
Published: April 2024

Consecutive photoinduced electron transfer (ConPET) is a powerful and atom‐economical protocol to overcome the limitations of the intrinsic redox potential of visible light‐absorbing photosensitizers, thereby considerably improving the substrate and reaction types. Likely because such an exothermic single‐electron transfer (SET) process usually does not require the aid of chiral catalysts, resulting in an inevitable racemic background reaction, notably, no enantioselective manifolds have been reported. Herein, we report on the viability of cooperative ConPET and chiral hydrogen‐bonding catalysis for the [3+2] photocycloaddition of cyclopropyl ketones with vinylazaarenes. In addition to enabling the first use of olefins that preferentially interact with chiral catalysts, this catalysis platform paves the way for the efficient synthesis of pharmaceutically and synthetically important cyclopentyl ketones functionalized by azaarenes with high yields, ees and dr. The robust capacity of the method can be further highlighted by the low loading of the chiral catalyst (1.0 mol %), the good compatibility of both 2‐azaarene and 3‐pyridine‐based olefins, and the successful concurrent construction of three stereocenters on cyclopentane rings involving an elusive but important all‐carbon quaternary.
Utilization of hazelnut oil oleogels for the preparation of milk couverture type compound chocolates: Composition, properties, and sensory evaluations
Authors: Yılmaz Emin , Öz Ceren
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to use oleogels in compound chocolates. A control sample with cocoa butter (CNT) and two compound chocolates with hazelnut oil‐sunflower wax oleogel (SWO‐CC), and polyglycerol stearate oleogel (PGSO‐CC) were prepared with the same recipe. The main properties and compositions of the samples were quite similar. While CNT sample included only 37.97% of total unsaturated fatty acids, it was 74.19 and 63.08% in the SWO‐CC and PGSO‐CC, respectively. The melting peak temperatures were 32.1, 25.4, and 23.8°C for CNT, SWO‐CC and PGSO‐CC. The samples had 11.75%, 74.25%, and 74.25% shape retention index values at 60°C. Clearly compound chocolates melted at lower temperatures, but retained their shape at higher temperatures. After 15‐day temperature fluctuation storage, no fat bloom was developed. Rheological data showed that the PGSO‐CC sample was stiffer among all, and the compound chocolates melted slowly up to 40°C, but CNT melted sharply at 38°C. Further, the PGSO‐CC sample showed a lubricating behavior. Although CNT sample included 7 volatile aromatics, SWO‐CC and PGSO‐CC samples had 17 and 14 compounds, respectively. Trained panel described the samples with 13 attributes, and most profoundly the compound chocolates had lower shape, surface gloss, coffee, bitter, cooling, hardness scores, and higher coating scores. Consumer test revealed that compound chocolates had lower appearance scores, and equal aroma scores. The flavor score and acceptability were highest for the PGSO‐CC sample. Overall, this study proved that heat stable and sensorially acceptable compound chocolates could be prepared from the oleogels.
No‐organic solvent, no‐fluorinated waterborne superhydrophobic coatings based on SiO2 and IBTS
Authors: Yang Yu , Zhang Hai , Cao Lei , Meng Weikai , Ma Xinru , Li Xinzi , Zheng Junping , Liu Xiaofei
Published: April 2024

Waterborne superhydrophobic coatings have attracted widespread attention. However, organic solvents, fluorine‐containing compounds, and complex operational technologies hinder superhydrophobic coatings development severely. Herein, A simple method of preparing water‐based superhydrophobic coatings by one‐step spraying without organic solvent and fluorine is reported. The particles of silicon dioxide (SiO2) was modified by isobutyltriethoxysilane (IBTS), then combined with waterborne acrylic polyurethane (WPUA) and phenolic resin (PF), baked at 110°C to fabricate superhydrophobic coatings. According to the contact Angle (CA), hardness, adhesion, and other parameters, the ratio of SiO2 and PF of the composite coatings was optimized. Results showed that the superhydrophobicity and physical properties of the coating are the most exceptional at the content of SiO2 is 0.6 g, and the PF is 25%. In addition, related experimental results show that the coatings have good water resistance and self‐cleaning ability, the special nano/micro structure of the coatings also endows it excellent abrasion resistance. Exceptional hydrophobicity and physical properties meeting the actual application conditions of superhydrophobic coatings. Therefore, the simple method for preparing superhydrophobic coatings has great application prospects.
The archaeology of shellfishing practices on Ua Huka, Marquesas Archipelago (French Polynesia)
Authors: Traversat Gabrielle , Conte Eric , Molle Guillaume
Published: April 2024

Shellfish remains are ubiquitous to coastal archaeological sites in the Marquesas but have seldom been the focus of dedicated investigations into their contribution to past diet and daily life. On the island of Ua Huka, in the northern group of the archipelago, people have consumed a variety of shellfish since their arrival on the island around the early 12th century AD. By analysing assemblages from five coastal sites spanning from the early settlement until the 18th century and using an archaeomalacological approach (precise taxonomic identification, coupled quantification methods, observation of taphonomic processes, biometry), we attempt to recount the exploitation processes of this resource, from the initial gathering stage to the final discarding of the shell. We further explore inter‐site and temporal variability in prey choice. Coupled with ethnographic accounts from European observers and insightful testimonies from current inhabitants of the island regarding present‐day practices, we highlight the persistence of choices regarding species selection, breakage patterns and cooking processes on an island that has seen major subsistence changes since European contact.
Entwicklung eines Wickelverfahrens für Bauteile aus kurzfaserbewehrtem Textilbeton
Authors: Kufner Fabian , Rucker‐Gramm Petra , Horstmann Michael , Hämmelmann‐Breul Erika , Breul Frank , Hahn Eric , Hettwer Stefan , Pachow Ulrich
Published: April 2024

Im Forschungsprojekt WiFaPu (Wickelverfahren für hochbewehrten Faserbeton am Beispiel eines Pumpensumpfes) wurde ein Wickelverfahren entwickelt, das die Vorteile von Glasfaserbeton und Textilbeton hinsichtlich der Herstellungsprozesse und des Tragverhaltens vereint. Im Verfahren wird der Feinbeton zusammen mit am Sprühkopf eingeblasenen, geschnittenen Kurzfasern auf eine Trägerschicht und die textile Bewehrung aufgespritzt, um eine dünne kurzfaserbewehrte Textilbetonschicht definierter Dicke zu erzeugen, die in einem quasikontinuierlichen Prozess zu einem Bauteil mit einer beliebigen Querschnittsdicke aufgewickelt wird. Der Beitrag berichtet über die Herausforderungen bei der Entwicklung des Wickelverfahrens und der zugehörigen Abstimmung der Materialkomponenten, um dauerhafte Bauteile mit einfachen Geometrien, akzeptablen Oberflächen und reduziertem CO2‐Fußabdruck zu produzieren. Als Demonstratorbauteile des Verfahrens werden Pumpensümpfe hergestellt und diese hinsichtlich der Tragfähigkeit und Gebrauchstauglichkeit untersucht. Gemäß den experimentellen Belastungsversuchen von kritischen Bauteilbereichen ergeben sich Bauteile mit hoher Tragfähigkeit. Befüllversuche zeigen, dass im Wickelverfahren gebrauchstaugliche Pumpensümpfe hergestellt werden können. Die insgesamt hohe Wasserundurchlässigkeit der dünnwandigen Bauteile wird durch Feinbetone mit geringer Wassereindringtiefe sowie sehr geringe Rissbreiten mit hohem Selbstheilungspotenzial ermöglicht.
Continuous design and technoeconomic assessment of commercial‐scale biorefinery processes for the production of succinic acid
Authors: Barbosa Arthur V. L. , Paredes Márcio L. L. , Alijó Pedro H. R. , Sardou Ana C. O. , Maia Jeiveison G. S. S. , Bastos João B. V.
Published: April 2024

Succinic acid is recognized as a key component in the production of various commercially important chemical commodities. Technical‐economic analysis can provide valuable insights into the feasibility of large‐scale biochemical production of succinic acid. In this study, the effects of scale on the design of a biorefinery using sugarcane bagasse were evaluated using a detailed process modeling methodology. Four processes were simulated and compared, three based on patents from biosuccinic acid (bio‐SA) manufacturing companies and one based on a process economic program report (PEP). This methodology allowed for the analysis of scale benefits for each technological route. A comprehensive economic evaluation was conducted by comparing the biochemical processes in terms of investment and production costs, as well as the minimum selling price (MSP) of bio‐SA. Results show that the MSP of more promising process designs ranged from 3105 to 2095 $ t−1, which is compatible with the cost of petrochemical‐based succinic acid. Moreover, for capacities above 90 kt year−1, the MSP remains virtually constant, and every process evaluated revealed a breakdown in the project economy of scale. A sensitivity and risk analysis was carried out to evaluate the impacts of several process parameters on the project's technoeconomic analysis, resulting in bio‐SA selling price and investment costs as parameters with the highest impact on economic viability.
Heterocyclic fluorescent Schiff base chemosensors for the detection of Fe(III) and Cu(II) ions
Authors: Sambamoorthy Santhi , Thamaraichelvan Geetha , Karikalan Abinaya , Kumar Saranya Srinivasa
Published: April 2024

Two new Schiff bases were synthesized from 1‐(2,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)ethanone and pyridine derivatives. Both compounds were characterized using infrared, UV–Vis., 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectral studies. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed for both the Schiff bases with 6‐31G(d, p) as the basis set. Vibrational frequencies calculated using the theoretical method were in good agreement with the experimental values. Both the Schiff bases were highly fluorescent in nature. The cation‐recognizing profile of the compounds was investigated in aqueous methanol medium. The Schiff base 4‐(1‐(pyridin‐4‐ylimino)ethyl)benzene‐1,3‐diol (PYEB) was found to interact with Fe(III) and Cu(II) ions, whereas the Schiff base 4,4′‐((pyridine‐2,3‐diylbis(azanylylidene))bis(ethan‐1‐yl‐1‐ylidene))bis(benzene‐1,3‐diol) (PDEB) was found to detect Cu(II) ions. The mechanism of recognition was established as combined excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT)–chelation‐enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) effect and chelation‐enhanced quenching (CHEQ) process for the detection of Fe(III) and Cu(II) ions, respectively. The stability constant of the metal complexes formed during the sensing process was determined. The limit of detection for Fe(III) and Cu(II) ions with respect to Schiff base PYEB was found to be 1.64 × 10−6 and 2.16 × 10−7 M, respectively. With respect to Schiff base PDEB, the limit of detection for Cu(II) ion was found to be 4.54 × 10−4 M. The Cu(II) ion sensing property of the Schiff base PDEB was applied in bioimaging studies for the detection of HeLa cells.
Rapid spectrophotometric detection for optimized production of landomycins and characterization of their therapeutic potential
Authors: Chappell Todd C. , Maiello Kathleen G. , Tierney Allison J. , Yanagi Karin , Lee Jessica A. , Lee Kyongbum , Mace Charles R. , Bennett Clay S. , Nair Nikhil U.
Published: April 2024

Microbial‐derived natural products remain a major source of structurally diverse bioactive compounds and chemical scaffolds that have the potential as new therapeutics to target drug‐resistant pathogens and cancers. In particular, genome mining has revealed the vast number of cryptic or low‐yield biosynthetic gene clusters in the genus Streptomyces. However, low natural product yields—improvements to which have been hindered by the lack of high throughput methods—have slowed the discovery and development of many potential therapeutics. Here, we describe our efforts to improve yields of landomycins—angucycline family polyketides under investigation as cancer therapeutics—by a genetically modified Streptomyces cyanogenus 136. After simplifying the extraction process from S. cyanogenus cultures, we identified a wavelength at which the major landomycin products are absorbed in culture extracts, which we used to systematically explore culture medium compositions to improve total landomycin titers. Through correlational analysis, we simplified the culture optimization process by identifying an alternative wavelength at which culture supernatants absorb yet is representative of total landomycin titers. Using the subsequently improved sample throughput, we explored landomycin production during the culturing process to further increase landomycin yield and reduce culture time. Testing the antimicrobial activity of the isolated landomycins, we report broad inhibition of Gram‐positive bacteria, inhibition of fungi by landomycinone, and broad landomycin resistance by Gram‐negative bacteria that is likely mediated by the exclusion of landomycins by the bacterial membrane. Finally, the anticancer activity of the isolated landomycins against A549 lung carcinoma cells agrees with previous reports on other cell lines that glycan chain length correlates with activity. Given the prevalence of natural products produced by Streptomyces, as well as the light‐absorbing moieties common to bioactive natural products and their metabolic precursors, our method is relevant to improving the yields of other natural products of interest.
Integrated micro‐scale protein a chromatography and Low pH viral inactivation unit operations on an automated platform
Authors: Sharma Paras , Robbel Lars , Schmitt Michael , Dikicioglu Duygu , Bracewell Daniel G.
Published: April 2024

High throughput process development (HTPD) is established for time‐ and resource‐ efficient chromatographic process development. However, integration with non‐chromatographic operations within a monoclonal antibody (mAb) purification train is less developed. An area of importance is the development of low pH viral inactivation (VI) that follows protein A chromatography. However, the lack of pH measurement devices at the micro‐scale represents a barrier to implementation, which prevents integration with the surrounding unit operations, limiting overall process knowledge. This study is based upon the design and testing of a HTPD platform for integration of the protein A and low pH VI operations. This was achieved by using a design and simulation software before execution on an automated liquid handler. The operations were successfully translated to the micro‐scale, as assessed by analysis of recoveries and molecular weight content. The integrated platform was then used as a tool to assess the effect of pH on HMWC during low pH hold. The laboratory‐scale and micro‐scale elution pools showed comparable HMWC across the pH range 3.2–3.7. The investigative power of the platform is highlighted by evaluating the resources required to conduct a hypothetical experiment. This results in lower resource demands and increased labor efficiency relative to the laboratory‐scale. For example, the experiment can be conducted in 7 h, compared to 105 h, translating to labor hours, 3 h and 28 h for the micro‐scale and laboratory‐scale, respectively. This presents the opportunity for further integration beyond chromatographic operations within the purification sequence, to establish a fit‐to‐platform assessment tool for mAb process development.
Impact of hyperuricemia and chronic kidney disease on the prevalence and mortality of cardiovascular disease in cancer survivors
Authors: Chen Yanlin , Chen Yuhan , Lin Weidong , Fu Lu , Liu Huiyi , Pu Sijia , Chen Haowei , Yi Hong , Xue Yumei
Published: April 2024

Background

The risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CVD mortality are prevalent among cancer survivors (CS) population. The 2022 ESC Guidelines on cardio‐oncology have recommended that modifying cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) could potentially improve long‐term outcomes in CS.

Objectives

To identify the independent and joint chronic kidney disease (CKD) associations of hyperuricemia with the incidence of CVD and mortality outcomes among CS.

Methods

Utilizing data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning 2005–2018, we assessed the risk of CVD through weighted multivariable logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression. Additionally, all‐cause and CVD‐related mortality were evaluated using weighted multivariable Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier analysis. Subgroup analysis was conducted to further elucidate the interplay between hyperuricemia, CKD, and mortality within the CS population.

Results

A total of 3276 CS participants were enrolled in this study. Results showed that hyperuricemia was positively related to the incidence of CVD (OR [95% CI] = 1.86 [1.24, 2.81], p = 0.004). RCS analysis further demonstrated that uric acid levels ≥345 μmol/L positively correlated with CVD incidence (p value for nonlinearity = 0.0013). However, the association between hyperuricemia and CVD mortality, as well as all‐cause mortality did not reach statistical significance in the fully adjusted model (HR = 1.48, 95% CI: 0.92–2.39, p = 0.11; HR = 1.11, 95% CI:0.92, 1.34, p = 0.28, respectively). Among CS participants with CKD, hyperuricemia could increase risks of all‐cause (HR [95% CI] = 1.39 [1.08, 1.11], p = 0.02) and CVD mortality (HR [95% CI] =2.17 [1.29, 3.66], p = 0.004) after adjusting for sex, age, and ethnicity.

Conclusions

In the CS population, hyperuricemia was positively associated with the incidence of CVD. In addition, CKD might be an intermediate variable among the CS population that mediated the effects of hyperuricemia on mortality.
Development and validation of a nomogram to predict leptomeningeal metastases in lung adenocarcinoma: Cervical lymph node metastasis is an important association factor
Authors: Hua Xiaoyu , Feng Weifeng , Ye Minting , Lai Mingyao , Yu Xiaojun , Sun Mengnan , Li Juan , Ai Ruyu , He Yanlin , Cai Linbo , Shi Changzheng , Liu Xiangning
Published: April 2024

Background

The goal of this study was to create a nomogram using routine parameters to predict leptomeningeal metastases (LMs) in advanced lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) patients to prevent needless exams or lumbar punctures and to assist in accurately diagnosing LMs.

Methods

Two hundred and seventy‐three patients with LMs and brain metastases were retrospectively reviewed and divided into derivation (n = 191) and validation (n = 82) cohorts using a 3:7 random allocation. All LAC patients with LMs had positive cerebrospinal fluid cytology results and brain metastases confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Binary logistic regression with backward stepwise selection was used to identify significant characteristics. A predictive nomogram based on the logistic model was assessed through receiver operating characteristic curves. The validation cohort and Hosmer–Lemeshow test were used for internal validation of the nomogram.

Results

Five clinicopathological parameters, namely, gene mutations, surgery at the primary lung cancer site, clinical symptoms of the head, N stage, and therapeutic strategy, were used as predictors of LMs. The area under the curve was 0.946 (95% CI 0.912–0.979) for the training cohort and 0.861 (95% CI 0.761–0.961) for the internal validation cohort. There was no significant difference in performance between the two cohorts (p = 0.116). In the internal validation, calibration plots revealed that the nomogram predictions were well suited to the actual outcomes.

Conclusions

We created a user‐friendly nomogram to predict LMs in advanced lung cancer patients, which could help guide treatment decisions and reduce unnecessary lumbar punctures.
Using neural data to forecast aggregate consumer behavior in neuromarketing: Theory, metrics, progress, and outlook
Authors: Yao Xiaoqiang , Wang Yiwen
Published: April 2024

The field of using neural data to forecast aggregate consumer choice has garnered attention in the past decade, holding substantial promise for both researchers and practitioners. However, a comprehensive understanding of this emerging field is lacking. This paper aims to bridge that gap by summarizing existing research, encompassing relevant theories, metrics, progress, and future directions. We begin by introducing the concept of neuroforecasting within the field of neuromarketing. We then delve into theories that leverage neural data for forecasting aggregate choice, including affect‐integration‐motivation framework, frontal asymmetry, and inter‐subject correlation. Subsequently, we review various metrics, including self‐reported, behavioral, and neural metrics employed to forecast market‐level behavior, presenting key findings from relevant studies. Furthermore, we examine the strengths and weaknesses of this field. Advantages of this approach include its ability to offer effective predictions of consumer behavior and provide enhanced insights into consumer preferences and choices, while its weaknesses encompass relatively high cost, sample size constraints, issues of ecological validity, and challenges related to reverse inference. In conclusion, future research should prioritize integrating diverse data types with machine learning techniques to forecast the outcomes of marketing campaigns in advance. Additionally, a deeper exploration of the psychological and cognitive processes underlying successful predictions can augment predictive accuracy and effectiveness. This review provides a systematic overview for researchers and practitioners in this field, offering valuable insights and guidance for future research endeavors and industry applications.
Antiglycating Effects of Spirulina platensis Aqueous Extract on Glucose‐Induced Glycation of Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Paramanya Additiya , Abiodun Abeeb Oyesiji , Ola Mohammad Shamsul , Ali Ahmad
Published: April 2024

Glucose, the predominant carbohydrate in the human body, initiates nonenzymatic reactions in hyperglycemia, potentially leading to adverse biochemical interactions. This study investigates the interaction between glucose and Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA), along with the protective effects of Spirulina platensis PCC 7345 aqueous extract. Phycobiliproteins (phycocyanin, phycoerythrin, and allophycocyanin) in the extract were quantified using spectrophotometry. The extract‘s anti‐glycation potential was assessed by analyzing its effects on albumin glycation, fluorescent advanced glycation end products (AGEs), thiol group oxidation, and β‐amyloid structure generation. Additionally, its antidiabetic potential was evaluated by measuring α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase enzyme inhibition. Results indicate that the Spirulina extract significantly mitigated ketoamine levels, fluorescence, and protein−carbonyl production induced by glucose, demonstrating a 67.81 % suppression of AGE formation after 28 days. Moreover, it effectively inhibited amyloid formation in BSA cross‐linkages. These findings suggest the potential of S. platensis as an anti‐glycation and antidiabetic agent, supporting its consideration for dietary inclusion to manage diabetes and associated complications.
Phoenix dactylifera L.: An Overview of Phytochemical Constituents and Impact on Women's Health
Authors: AbouZeid Enaam M. , Afifi Ahmed H. , Hussei Rehab A. , Salama Abeer A. , Youssef Fadia S. , El‐Ahmady Sherweit H. , Ammar Nagwa Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) is the most significant member of the palm family (Arecaceae), particularly in the Middle East and Arab World. It is a valuable source of both primary and secondary metabolites including sugars, amino acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, carotenoids, phytosterols, terpenes and sphingolipids, besides vitamins and minerals. Besides, it possesses a wide array of pharmacologic activities viz. immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, anti‐mutagenic and anti‐cancer activities, in addition to its positive effects on male and female fertility. Further research is still required to deeply understand its clinical implications, especially concerning women's health. Moreover, there are other Phoenix species that still need to be investigated to learn more about their undiscovered phytochemical components and biological activities.
Chemical Constituents of the Fruits of Cornus Officinalis and Evaluation of their Neuroprotective Activity
Authors: Yang Meng , Hao Zhi‐You , Wang Xiao‐Lan , Zhou Shi‐Qi , Xiao Chao‐Yuan , Chen Hui , Zheng Xiao‐Ke , Feng Wei‐Sheng
Published: April 2024

The phytochemical investigation of the fruits of Cornus officinalis yielded a new phenolic acid derivative, neophenolic acid A (1), and a novel flavonoid glycoside, (2R)‐naringenin‐7‐O‐β‐(6′′‐galloyl‐glucopyranoside) (2 a), along with six known flavonoid glycosides (2 b–7). Their structures were determined by 1D, 2D NMR and HRESIMS data. The absolute configuration of 1 was established by ECD analysis. Compounds 1– 7 were evaluated for their neuroprotective activities against corticosterone (CORT)‐induced injury in PC‐12 cells. Compounds 1, 2 a, 2 b, 5, and 6 exhibited neuroprotective activities against CORT‐induced neurotoxicity in PC‐12 cells. The underlying mechanism study suggested that compounds 1, 2 a, 2 b, 5, and 6 were able to attenuate CORT‐induced apoptosis and damage, increase the levels of MMP and decrease Ca2+ inward flow in PC‐12 cells.
Applications of Cellulose‐Based Nanomaterials for Sustainability and Therapeutics: A Review
Authors: Sariboga Ruken , Sarioglu Omer Faruk
Published: April 2024

Cellulose is a natural fibrous carbohydrate, is the main structural element of plant cell walls, and is the most abundant natural polymer found in the biosphere. Due to its abundance and chemical stability, it has been used as a raw material in various industries for thousands of years. Due to developments in nanotechnology, materials that are used in macroscale abundantly are also utilized for nanomaterial design, and cellulose‐based nanomaterials have gained more interest in recent years. The unique properties of cellulose‐based nanomaterials including their chemical stability, high degree of crystallinity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and tunability of their chemical (e.g., surface modification) and physical (e.g., shape) properties make them good candidates for functional nanomaterial design. This review brings advances in cellulose‐based nanomaterials for application in two major fields, sustainability and therapeutics.
Oxidation of Alcohols and Aldehydes with Peracetic Acid and a Mn(II)/Pyridin‐2‐Carboxylato Catalyst: Substrate and Continuous Flow Studies
Authors: Ryan Ailbhe A. , Dempsey Seán D. , Smyth Megan , Fahey Karen , Moody Thomas S. , Wharry Scott , Dingwall Paul , Rooney David W. , Thompson Jillian M. , Knipe Peter C. , Muldoon Mark J.
Published: April 2024

A homogeneous catalyst system consisting of Mn(OAc)2 and 2‐picolinic acid was studied for alcohol oxidation using peracetic acid as the oxidant. Catalyst loadings as low as 0.01 mol% could be utilized and the system compared well to other peroxide based methods. The utilization of continuous flow allowed the fast, exothermic reactions to be carried out in a safe and scalable manner.
Applications of Electrochemistry at the ITIES in Drug Discovery and Development – A Review
Authors: Ribeiro José A. , Pereira Carlos M.
Published: April 2024

The field of electrochemistry at the interface between two immiscible electrolyte solutions (ITIES) has been continuously expanding over the years due to their vast number of applications, including to investigate the partitioning of ionizable drugs at liquid‐liquid systems. The aim of this Review is to highlight the great potential of ITIES as simple model of biological membranes to gather information on drug partition, lipophilicity, and pharmacokinetics that can be very useful for researchers in the field of drug discovery for development of new drugs with enhanced permeability. Relevant contributions and perspectives to improve the applicability of ITIES in partition studies were highlighted and discussed. The second part of this Review pretends to highlight the application of electrochemistry at the ITIES as experimental technique to investigate interactions between small ligands, including drugs, and DNA, a topic of high research interest in pharmaceutical and biological sciences, which remains with lots of opportunities to explore.