bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexual Practices at Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections among Students at the University of Parakou in 2022: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Attinsounon Cossi Angelo , Akonakpo Aubierge , Dovonou Albert , Yamongbè Clodel , Adoukonou Thierry
Published: December 2023

Aims: The aim was to study sexual practices at risk of sexually transmitted infections among students.

Study Design:  This was a descriptive cross-sectional study with analytical aims.

Place and Duration of Study: University of Parakou, from June 06 to 26, 2022.

Methodology: The sampling technique used was simple random sampling, in which five entities were selected from the eleven basic campus entities. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire distributed electronically to students via the KoBoToolbox server. The dependent variable was condom use. The independent variables were sociodemographic, cultural, environmental, behavioral and sexually transmitted infection (STI) history. Data were entered into KoboCollect. Data analysis was performed using Epi-Info software version 7.1.3.3. The difference was statistically significant for a p-value of less than 0.05.

Results: A total of 420 students were surveyed out of the 2626 who had read the link on the forums, giving a participation rate of 15.99%. Of the 420 students surveyed, 220 (52.38%) were male and 200 (47.62%) females, giving a sex ratio (M/F) of 1.09. The mean age of the students was 21.8 ± 2.8 years, with extremes of 17 and 35 years. Sexually active students accounted for 73.57%. Condom use was 32.04%. In 45.16% of cases, students had contracted an STI in the previous three months. Vaginal penetration was practiced in 93.20% of cases. Factors associated with condom use in univariate analysis were gender (p=0.002), vaginal penetration (p<0.001) and types of sexual penetration practiced during the last sexual intercourse (p=0.002).

Conclusion: The relatively low frequency of condom use among students at the University of Parakou suggests high-risk sexual relations for STIs. There is a need to raise awareness among students of the importance of condom use.
Revolutionizing Vegetable Value Chains: A Comprehensive Review of Digital Technologies and their Impact on Agricultural Transformation
Authors: Patil Sharvari , Aklade Nikhil , Uikey Ashish Ashok
Published: December 2023

The agricultural sector, especially in the realm of vegetable supply chains, has undergone a substantial transformation through the integration of digital tools. This review paper investigates the profound impact of cutting-edge technologies on agriculture, focusing on their implementation within the vegetable value chain. It covers in-depth analyses of various technological advancements such as big data analytics, RFID tags, IoT devices, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence. The exploration includes a detailed examination of Ninjacart, a leading agricultural technology platform, as a case study exemplifying the practical application of these technologies. These innovations have revolutionized inventory management, ranging from predictive analytics for crop yield estimation to the utilization of RFID tags for real-time tracking. IoT devices have played a pivotal role in monitoring crop health and optimizing resource allocation, while blockchain technology ensures transparency and reliability in the supply chain. Moreover, AI-powered solutions have efficiently organized transportation routes and addressed complexities within the supply chain, significantly reducing food wastage. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of how digital technologies have reshaped the vegetable value chain, using the Ninjacart case study to highlight the tangible impact and practical implications of these advancements in real-world scenarios.
Enhancing Rainfed Castor Growth, Seed, and Oil Yield Via Nano Urea Application
Authors: Veeramani, P.  , Subrahmaniyan K. , Manickam S. , Ravichandran V. , Saravanan P. A. , Jayakumar J. , Harisudan C.
Published: December 2023

Aims: Conventional urea fertilizer has been critical in enhancing castor yields. However, nano urea, a game-changing technology in modern agriculture, provides a significant advancement in terms of sustainable and efficient crop production.

Study Design:  The experiment was conducted in a Randomized block design (RBD) with eight treatments and three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: Tapioca and Castor Research Station in Yethapur during the Kharif season of 2022.

Methodology: The major objective is to increase hybrid castor growth and production under rainfed circumstances by foliar application of nano urea. The castor hybrid YRCH 1 with an RDF of 60:30:30 NPK kg ha-1 was chosen for the study.  The experimental details viz; T1 - 100% N through Urea –RDF, T2 -  50 % of recommended basal N + Nano urea foliar spray @ 2 ml/l at 30 and 60 DAS, T3 -  50 % of recommended basal N + 2 % Urea foliar spray at 30 and 60 DAS, T4 -  75 % of recommended basal N + Nano urea foliar spray @ 2 ml/l at 30 and 60 DAS, T5 -  75 % of recommended basal N+ 2 % Urea foliar spray at 30 and 60 DAS, T6 -  100 % of recommended basal N + Nano urea foliar spray @ 2 ml/l at 30 and 60 DAS, T7 -  100 % of recommended basal N + 2 % Urea foliar spray at 30 and 60 DAS.

Results: According to the findings of the study, applying 100% of the recommended basal N + Nano urea foliar spray @ 2 ml/l at 30 and 60 DAS is advantageous to the crop and improves the growth and yield characteristics of hybrid castor under rainfed conditions. However, when compared to other treatments, foliar application of nano urea with 50% indicated basal N resulted in significantly lower growth and yield.

Conclusion: The major objective is to increase hybrid castor growth and production under rainfed circumstances by foliar application of nano urea
Investigating the Impact of Zinc on Chlorophyll Content and Leaf Area in Arecanut Seedlings
Authors: Thanuja, G.  , Nagaraja, N. R.  , Vishnuvardhana  , Bhat Ravi , Maruti Prasad, B. N.  , Ramesh, S. V.
Published: December 2023

A sand culture experiment was carried out at ICAR-CPCRI, Regional Station, Vittal in the year 2021, to evaluate the impact of different concentrations of Zinc (Zn) on chlorophyll content and leaf area in arecanut seedlings. Eight varieties of arecanut seedlings (Mangala, Swarnamangala, Madhuramangala, Shatamangala, South Kanara local (S K local), Thirthahalli, Sirsi arecanut selection -1 (SAS -1), Hirehalli dwarf) were cultivated in a naturally ventilated glasshouse using sand culture provided with 0.031, 0.093 and 0.156 ppm of Zn. After six months of growth, the seedlings were assessed for chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll content, and total leaf area. The results indicated that the chlorophyll content and total leaf area of arecanut seedlings were significantly influenced by different varieties and varying levels of zinc supplementation. Maximum values for both chlorophyll content and total leaf area were observed at a Zn concentration of 0.093 ppm (Z2 level). This study suggests that among the different levels of Zn, a concentration of 0.093 ppm (medium level) is optimal for promoting the growth of arecanut seedlings.
Microbial Contamination of Infant Feeding Bottles and Caregiver Compliance to Disinfection and Sterilization Techniques, Pediatric Hospital, Libya
Authors: Mohamed Huda , Tarhuni Abdelmetalab , Abbeid Hager , Abdulati Ainor , Adel Aisha , Saleh Fatima , Abdullah Wafa
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Microbial contamination of infant feeding bottles imposes a big health issue that cause increase in the infant morbidity and mortality rate, and this infection can be resulted from poor hygiene practices and using inadequate cleaning and disinfection methods of feeding bottles.

Aim: to evaluate the rate of bacterial infection of infant feeding bottles of infants who were admitted to pediatric hospital.

 Materials and Methods: The data were collected by filling questionnaires from the mothers and taking swabs from feeding bottles of infants who were admitted to pediatric hospital. The data included 24 questionnaires and 60 swabs; which 3 swabs were taken from three different area of the same bottle for each 24 children separately. then the swabs were tested in a laboratory to detect the types of isolated bacteria.

Results: This study found that 91.7% of the bottles were infected, and the isolated bacteria from these bottles were staphylococcus, Klebsiella, E. coli and salmonella.  Moreover, it found a slight elevation in the bacterial infection rate in plastic bottles more than glass bottles. Besides, it found a positive relationship between bottle body infection and the educational level of mothers. On the other hand, it did not indicate any statistical association between infection of teats, bottles body and covers and occupational status of mothers.

Conclusion: The microbial bottles contamination is caused due to unsuitable cleaning and sterilization methods of feeding bottles and this leads to increase gastrointestinal infection as well as increase the morbidity and mortality rate among infants.
Climate Change Impact on Horticultural Crops: A Review
Authors: Gouthami Y.  , Tiwari Nimisha , Nandeha Nirjharnee , Dubey Saket , Singh Piyush , Divyashree N.  , Ninama Nilesh
Published: December 2023

Our civilization is fundamentally based on agriculture, which provides resources and food to an expanding population. But because of rising temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and a rise in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, climate change is endangering this industry. Our study aims to fill a significant gap in the existing literature by focusing on the effects of climate change on vegetable crops. It also highlights the need to address climate change in a differentiated manner, taking into account the unique characteristics of each agricultural sector. By using the Web of Science and Scopus databases, 219 publications were carefully examined to see which ones fully addressed how climate change is affecting vegetable crops. Only 53 of the 219 publications that were reviewed were solely concerned with how climate change is affecting vegetable crops. This suggests that more specialised research is needed in this field, especially considering the complex issues that climate change raises regarding yield, non-trivial quality, and food safety. Future research in this area is therefore encouraged. Crop-based adaptation techniques are required, taking into account the crop's characteristics, degree of sensitivity, and agro-ecological zone. In addition, monitoring the ability of various horticulture crops to absorb carbon dioxide in comparison to annual field crops can help create a blueprint for addressing climate change-related problems.
Assessment of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Performance for Yield and Quality Production under Natural Farming System in Gird Region of Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Chauhan Aman Pratap Singh , Singh Dheerendra , Sharma Avinash , Chouhan Shubham , Kushwah Nishita , Singh Nisha , Sharma Janmejay
Published: December 2023

Objective of the Study: To assess the potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) performance for yield and quality production under natural farming system in gird region of Madhya Pradesh.

Study Design: Randomized complete block design.

Place and Duration of Study: ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute- RS, research farm Gwalior during winter (Rabi) season of 2022-2023.

Methodology: Selected 5 plants from each treatment and replicated 3 times. Then follows methods as per given in materials and methods section of paper. Treatments T1: Control, T2: Inorganic practices (standard technology), T3: NADEP compost @ 25 t/ha + Azotobacter @ 1L/ha + PSB (Phosphorus solublizing bacteria) @ 1L/ha, T4: T3+ FYM @ 25 t/ha, T5: T3 + Vermicompost @ 7.5 t/ha, T6: T3+ neem cake @ 5 t/ha + foliar spray of copper oxychloride @ 3 g/L, T7: Integrated practice [90% RDF through inorganic sources {urea, SSP, MOP}, 10% RDF through organic sources i.e., FYM @ 25 t/ha.

Results: Results revealed that maximum number of tubers (135.03, 144.598 and 245.344) for grade 25-50 g, 50-75 g and >75 g respectively, highest number of tubers per ha (591286 at harvest), maximum yield of tubers (6.75, 10.844 and 18.40 t/ha) for grade 25-50 g, 50-75 g and >75 g respectively, highest yield of tubers (37.665 t/ha), highest true density of tubers (1.123 g/cc), highest tuber dry matter (17.173%) and  highest starch content (14.313%) were recorded in treatment T7. While, the maximum number of tubers (129.08) for grade (0-25 g) and, maximum yield of tubers (3.2098 t/ha) for grade (0-25 g) was found in control plot.

Conclusion: Among 7 treatments, T7- Integrated practice (90% inorganic practices, 10% organic) found better for number of tubers in different grades, yield of tubers in different grades, total tuber yield (t/ha) and for quality parameters e.i., True density (g/cc), Tuber dry matter (%) and Tuber starch content (%).
Spending on Dual Over-the-Counter and Prescription Drugs in the Medicare Part D Program
Authors: Socal Mariana P. , Wang Yuchen , Plummer Elizabeth , Anderson Gerard F. , Bai Ge
Published: December 2023

This study compares Medicare and patient spending for dual over-the-counter and prescription drugs with their over-the-counter cash prices.
Alcohol Intake Thresholds Among Individuals With Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Yeo Yee Hui , Zhu Yixuan , Arab Juan Pablo , Ni Wenjing , Xu Xiaoming , Shi Junping , Li Jie
Published: December 2023

This cohort study aims to elucidate the dose-dependent association of alcohol use with progression of steatotic liver disease using a noninvasive, low-cost method.
Clinical Characteristics of Primary Snoring vs Mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children
Authors: Mitchell Ron B. , Cook Kaitlyn , Garetz Susan , Tapia Ignacio E. , Elden Lisa M. , Kirkham Erin M. , Shah Jay , Otteson Todd , Zopf David , Amin Raouf , Ishman Stacey , Baldassari Cristina M. , Chervin Ronald D. , Hassan Fauziya , Naqvi Kamal , Wang Rui , Redline Susan
Published: December 2023

Importance

It is unknown whether children with primary snoring and children with mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) represent populations with substantially different clinical characteristics. Nonetheless, an obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of 1 or greater is often used to define OSA and plan for adenotonsillectomy (AT).

Objective

To assess whether a combination of clinical characteristics differentiates children with primary snoring from children with mild OSA.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Baseline data from the Pediatric Adenotonsillectomy Trial for Snoring (PATS) study, a multicenter, single-blind, randomized clinical trial conducted at 6 academic sleep centers from June 2016 to January 2021, were analyzed. Children aged 3.0 to 12.9 years with polysomnography-diagnosed (AHI <3) mild obstructive sleep-disordered breathing who were considered candidates for AT were included. Data analysis was performed from July 2022 to October 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Logistic regression models were fitted to identify which demographic, clinical, and caregiver reports distinguished children with primary snoring (AHI <1; 311 patients [67.8%]) from children with mild OSA (AHI 1-3; 148 patients [32.2%]).

Results

A total of 459 children were included. The median (IQR) age was 6.0 (4.0-7.5) years, 230 (50.1%) were female, and 88 (19.2%) had obesity. A total of 121 (26.4%) were Black, 75 (16.4%) were Hispanic, 236 (51.5%) were White, and 26 (5.7%) were other race and ethnicity. Black race (odds ratio [OR], 2.08; 95% CI, 1.32-3.30), obesity (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.12-2.91), and high urinary cotinine levels (>5 µg/L) (OR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.15-3.06) were associated with greater odds of mild OSA rather than primary snoring. Other demographic characteristics, clinical examination findings, and questionnaire reports did not distinguish between primary snoring and mild OSA. A weighted combination of the statistically significant clinical predictors had limited ability to differentiate children with mild OSA from children with primary snoring.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this analysis of baseline data from the PATS randomized clinical trial, primary snoring and mild OSA were difficult to distinguish without polysomnography. Mild OSA vs snoring alone did not identify a clinical group of children who may stand to benefit from AT for obstructive sleep-disordered breathing.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02562040
Precisely Coordination‐Modulated Ultralong Organic Phosphorescence Enables Biomimetic Fluorescence‐Afterglow Dual‐Modal Information Encryption
Authors: Yin Guangqiang , Huo Guifei , Qi Min , Liu Depeng , Li Longqiang , Zhou Jiayin , Le Xiaoxia , Wang Yu , Chen Tao
Published: December 2023

Information leakage and counterfeiting are serious worldwide issues that tremendously impact legitimate businesses and human life. Inspired by the Noctiluca scintillans, a new fluorescence‐afterglow dual‐modal information encryption enabled by precisely coordination‐modulated ultralong organic phosphorescence (UOP) is presented. Strikingly, the optical properties including fluorescence, lifetime and intensity of UOP can be precisely modulated on‐demand through energy transfer by lanthanide (LnIII) coordination, which enables information camouflage by similar LnIII luminescence to provide misleading information along with data decryption in the form of mutual afterglow. Moreover, the important data can be encrypted in a spatial‐time‐resolved way by programmatically coding information with afterglow gradients, yielding greatly improved security for verifying the authenticity. This study provides a new avenue to precisely modulate the optical properties of UOP materials and broadens the scope of optical materials for innovative information encryption and anticounterfeiting applications.
Quasi–1D Anhydrite Nanobelts from the Sustainable Liquid Exfoliation of Terrestrial Gypsum for Future Martian‐Based Electronics
Authors: Wei Cencen , Roy Abhijit , Aljarid Adel K. A. , Hu Yi , Roe S. Mark , Papageorgiou Dimitrios G. , Arenal Raul , Boland Conor S.
Published: December 2023

The sky is the limit with regards to the societal impact nanomaterials can have on the lives. However, in this study, it is shown that their potential is out of this world. The planet Mars has an abundant source of calcium sulfate minerals and in this work, it is shown that these deposits can be the basis of transformative nanomaterials to potentially support future space endeavors. Vitally, the methods applied are low cost and require no specialized instruments of great expertise, strengthening the potential involvement of nanotechnology in sustaining Martian inhabitation. Through a scalable eco‐friendly liquid processing technique performed on two common terrestrial gypsum, this simple method presented a cost‐efficient procedure to yield suspensions of large aspect ratio anhydrite nanobelts with long‐term stability that are characterized through scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy shows nanobelts to have a mesocrystal structure, with distinct nanoparticle constituents making up the lattice. Unexpectedly, anhydrite nanobelts have remarkable electronic properties, namely a bandgap that is easily tuned between semiconducting (≈2.2 eV) and insulating (≈4 eV) behaviors through dimensional control measured via atomic force microscopy. To demonstrate the application potential of the nanobelts; optoelectronic, electrochemical, and nanocomposite measurements are made.
Non‐covalent Intramolecular Interactions Induced High‐Performance Terpolymer Donors
Authors: Lu Jiayong , Wu Junran , Huang Bin , Fang Yu , Deng Xiangmeng , Zhang Jialin , Chen Shanshan , Jeong Seonghun , Liu Jinbiao , Yang Changduk
Published: December 2023

Ternary polymerization are demonstrated as a feasible and successful method of optimizing absorption, energy level, and crystallinity by maintaining the excellent properties of a polymer matrix. However, the third unit inevitably interrupts the periodic sequence distribution of the ordering packing of conjugated backbones, and thus balancing the trade‐off between the advantages of the third component and the disruption caused by the nonperiodic sequence distribution remains a great challenge. Herein, two terpolymer donors L1 and L2 are developed by introducing diethyl‐5,5′“‐dibromo‐4,4′”‐bis(2‐ethylhexyl)‐[2,2′:5′,2′'‐terthiophene]‐3′,4′‐dicarboxylate (DDT) unit as the third component. Owing to the electron‐deficient ability and S···O non‐covalent intramolecular interactions of DDT, terpolymers L1 and L2 displays deeper energy levels, enhanced molecular rigidity, and planarity than PM6. After blending with L8‐BO, the L1‐based polymer solar cells exhibit well miscibility with L8‐BO, leading to a more well‐defined nanofibrous morphology, face‐on orientation, and a slight energy loss in the blend films. As a result, the optimized L1:L8‐BO‐based device achieves a record power conversion efficiency (PCE) as high as 18.75%. This work provides a feasible strategy to develop high‐performance polymer donors via utilizing S···O non‐covalent intramolecular interactions to improve the planarity of polymer donors.
Endogenous Zinc‐Ion‐Triggered In Situ Gelation Enables Zn Capture to Reprogram Benign Hyperplastic Prostate Microenvironment and Shrink Prostate
Authors: Ge Jianchao , Fang Chao , Tan Haisong , Zhan Ming , Gu Meng , Ni Jianshu , Yang Guangcan , Zhang Haipeng , Ni Jinliang , Zhang Kun , Xu Bin
Published: December 2023

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) as the leading cause of urination disorder is still a refractory disease, and there have no satisfied drugs or treatment protocols yet. With identifying excessive Zn2+, inflammation, and oxidative stress as the etiology of aberrant hyperplasia, an injectable sodium alginate (SA) and glycyrrhizic acid (GA)‐interconnected hydrogels (SAGA) featuring Zn2+‐triggered in situ gelation are developed to load lonidamine for reprogramming prostate microenvironment and treating BPH. Herein, SAGA hydrogels can crosslink with Zn2+in BPH via coordination chelation and switch free Zn2+to bound ones, consequently alleviating Zn2+‐arisen inflammation and glycolysis. Beyond capturing Zn2+, GA with intrinsic immunoregulatory property can also alleviate local inflammation and scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). Intriguingly, Zn2+chelation‐bridged interconnection in SAGA enhances its mechanical property and regulates the degradation rate to enable continuous lonidamine release, favoring hyperplastic acini apoptosis and further inhibiting glycolysis. These multiple actions cooperatively reprogram BPH microenvironment to alleviate characteristic symptoms of BPH and shrink prostate. RNA sequencing reveals that chemotaxis, glycolysis, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inflammation‐related pathways associated with M1‐like phenotype polarization are discerned as the action rationales of such endogenous Zn2+‐triggered in situ hydrogels, providing a candidate avenue to treat BPH.
Bio‐Responsive Sliver Peroxide‐Nanocarrier Serves as Broad‐Spectrum Metallo‐β‐lactamase Inhibitor for Combating Severe Pneumonia
Authors: Li Hanqing , Duan Shuxian , Li Lixia , Zhao Gang , Wei Li , Zhang Bohan , Ma Yingying , Wu Mei X. , Mao Yanfei , Lu Min
Published: December 2023

Metallo‐β‐lactamases (MBLs) represent a prevalent resistance mechanism in Gram‐negative bacteria, rendering last‐line carbapenem‐related antibiotics ineffective. Here, a bioresponsive sliver peroxide (Ag2O2)‐based nanovesicle, named Ag2O2@BP‐MT@MM, is developed as a broad‐spectrum MBL inhibitor for combating MBL‐producing bacterial pneumonia. Ag2O2 nanoparticle is first orderly modified with bovine serum albumin and polydopamine to co‐load meropenem (MER) and [5‐(p‐fluorophenyl)‐2‐ureido]‐thiophene‐3‐carboxamide (TPCA‐1) and then encapsulated with macrophage membrane (MM) aimed to target inflammatory lung tissue specifically. The resultant Ag2O2@BP‐MT@MM effectively abrogates MBL activity by displacing the Zn2+ cofactor in MBLs with Ag+ and displays potent bactericidal and anti‐inflammatory properties, specific targeting abilities, and great bioresponsive characteristics. After intravenous injection, the nanoparticles accumulate prominently at infection sites through MM‐mediated targeting . Ag+ released from Ag2O2 decomposition at the infection sites effectively inhibits MBL activity and overcomes the resistance of MBL‐producing bacteria to MER, resulting in synergistic elimination of bacteria in conjunction with MER. In two murine infection models of NDM‐1+ Klebsiella pneumoniae‐induced severe pneumonia and NDM‐1+ Escherichia coli‐induced sepsis‐related bacterial pneumonia, the nanoparticles significantly reduce bacterial loading, pro‐inflammatory cytokine levels locally and systemically, and the recruitment and activation of neutrophils and macrophages. This innovative approach presents a promising new strategy for combating infections caused by MBL‐producing carbapenem‐resistant bacteria.
Glucose‐Triggered Gelation of Supramolecular Peptide Nanocoils with Glucose‐Binding Motifs
Authors: Yu Sihan , Ye Zhou , Roy Rajdip , Sonani Ravi R. , Pramudya Irawan , Xian Sijie , Xiang Yuanhui , Liu Guoqiang , Flores Belen , Nativ‐Roth Einat , Bitton Ronit , Egelman Edward H. , Webber Matthew J.
Published: December 2023

Peptide self‐assembly is a powerful tool to prepare functional materials at the nanoscale. Often, the resulting materials have high aspect‐ratio, with intermolecular β‐sheet formation underlying 1D fibrillar structures. Inspired by dynamic structures in nature, peptide self‐assembly is increasingly moving toward stimuli‐responsive designs wherein assembled structures are formed, altered, or dissipated in response to a specific cue. Here, a peptide bearing a prosthetic glucose‐binding phenylboronic acid (PBA) is demonstrated to self‐assemble into an uncommon nanocoil morphology. These nanocoils arise from antiparallel β‐sheets, with molecules aligned parallel to the long axis of the coil. The binding of glucose to the PBA motif stabilizes and elongates the nanocoil, driving entanglement and gelation at physiological glucose levels. The glucose‐dependent gelation of these materials is then explored for the encapsulation and release of a therapeutic agent, glucagon, that corrects low blood glucose levels. Accordingly, the release of glucagon from the nanocoil hydrogels is inversely related to glucose level. When evaluated in a mouse model of severe acute hypoglycemia, glucagon delivered from glucose‐stabilized nanocoil hydrogels demonstrates increased protection compared to delivery of the agent alone or within a control nanocoil hydrogel that is not stabilized by glucose.
Silicon‐Based Sensing Surface for Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosis by Phages Probes
Authors: Calorenni Paolo , Paratore Vincenzo , Rizzo Maria G. , De Plano Laura M. , Condorelli Guglielmo G. , De Luca Giovanna , Oddo Salvatore , Guglielmino Salvatore , Sciuto Emanuele L. , Conoci Sabrina
Published: December 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a diffused neurodegenerative disorder affecting people in advanced age causing loss of memory and dementia. Nowadays, diagnosis and treatment of AD are still challenging due to the lack of diagnostic systems that allow for an early and reliable diagnosis and therapy monitoring. Moreover, conventional strategies for AD diagnosis are based on brain imaging techniques that are invasive and expensive for early and massive screening. Phage display approach, using engineered phage probe for direct amyloid‐β (Aβ)‐autoantibodies detection, overcome these limitations leading to the possibility of safe and low‐cost screening. Moreover, the combination with silicon technology further improves the easiness of diagnosis due to the portability of devices and the integration of sensitive transduction signals. In this work, an innovative silicon‐based sensing technology is reported detecting Aβ‐autoantibodies, specifically Immunoglobulin G (IgG), in human sera by engineered M13‐phage probes (ADPP). The strategy hinges on a bio‐surface that is integrated on top of a silicon biosensor. Thanks to phages probes exposing Aβ‐mimic peptides, this chip can capture and reveal Aβ‐autoantibodies, discriminating between healthy and AD conditions. The surface chemistry is morphologically and chemically characterized and the phage‐based biosensor ability to recognise Aβ‐autoantibodies is proved by transduction with enzyme‐linked anti‐M13 antibodies.
Evaporation Triboelectric‐Nanogenerator: Harvesting Low‐Grade Heat Energy from Ambient Environment
Authors: Qu Hang , Wan Lingyu , Tian Zhiqun , Liu Guanlin , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: December 2023

Although natural evaporation absorbs substantial thermal energy from the ambient environment, efficiently utilizing this high‐entropy energy remains challenging. Here, the first water evaporation‐induced triboelectric nanogenerator is proposed. It only uses tap water to harvest low‐grade heat energy from the surroundings to convert it into electricity. The natural evaporation of the liquid can generate unintermittent electricity with an open‐circuit voltage of 382 V, a peak power of 0.42 mW, and three orders of magnitude enhancement up to 59.7 mJ mL−1 after consuming the same amount of tap water compared with the droplet‐based electricity generators. After which, the excellent power output lights 2 W LED and drives wearable electronic devices. This device also inhibits carbon steel materials' corrosion in solutions through the evaporation effect of the salt water on the spot. The present study provides novel insights for triboelectric nanogenerators regarding energy sources and promotes the practical application of evaporation‐power generation technology.
Molten‐Salt Synthesis of Anthracite‐Based Porous Carbon for Microscale Supercapacitors and Strain Sensors
Authors: Huang Jintao , Zhu Sheng , Guan Chong , Huang Zhihao , Zhang Jinjiao , Ni Jiangfeng , Han Gaoyi
Published: December 2023

The molten‐salt synthesis and electrochemical capacitive behaviors of porous carbon are reported using anthracite as the precursor. Upon synthesis, the binary KCl/K2CO3 molten salt not only exfoliates bulky anthracite to carbon nanosheets but also creates rich micro‐ and mesopores in the structure. The resulting porous carbon shows a large surface area of 1399.7 m2 g−1 and a total pore volume of 1.50 cm3 g−1. In 6.0 mol L−1 KOH aqueous electrolyte, it delivers a high specific capacitance of 245.6 F g−1 at a current density of 0.5 A g−1. Flexible micro‐supercapacitors with this porous carbon are assembled following an interdigitated design. The micro‐supercapacitor affords an area capacitance of 18.0 mF cm−2 and an energy density of 1.58 µWh cm−2 at a power density of 20 µW cm−2, and sustains 89.6% of the capacitance after 2000 cycles. Furthermore, the strain sensor fabricated by replacing the current‐collecting fluid at both ends of the electrode provides consistent and stable signal output, regardless of the degree of bending and the number of cycles. This study demonstrates the great potential of anthracite‐based porous carbon in flexible energy and electronic microdevices.
Synthesis of Indoles via Sigmatropic Rearrangements and Olefin Isomerization
Authors: Uchida Tomoki , Saito Ryosuke , Takao Ken‐ichi , Ogura Akihiro
Published: December 2023

Indoles are important heterocycles in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, and their atom‐economical synthesis is needed. Herein, we describe the synthesis of indoles using sigmatropic rearrangements. The N‐allylaniline was oxidized by environmentally benign hydrogen peroxide, and spontaneous [2,3]‐Meisenheimer rearrangement gave N‐allyloxyaniline. Subsequent treatment with a ruthenium catalyst afforded N‐vinyloxyaniline, which underwent [3,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement to give indoles, expelling water as the only byproduct. The whole sequence is free of quantitative salt byproducts, thereby avoiding aqueous work up and cutting off the inorganic waste.
Recent Advances in the Cascade Cyclization Reactions of 1,7‐Enynes
Authors: Zhang Xue‐Song , Han Ya‐Ping , Liang Yong‐Min
Published: December 2023

Elaborated molecular architectures, especially carbocyclic, heterocyclic, endocyclic, and polycyclic molecular structures, serve as an important class of organic complexes because they are frequently occurring core structural units in a variety of biologically and pharmacologically relevant natural products, drug molecules, agrochemicals, and functional materials. A main challenge of current synthetic approaches is the development of strategically efficient and selective formation of these compounds from easy‐to‐handle starting materials. The cascade cyclizations of 1,7‐enynes have afforded an indispensable method for accessing molecular complexity and diversity, thus highlighting their potential significance in both academic and industrial communities. In the last decades, tremendous efforts have been devoted to discovering convenient routes to access sophisticated annulation derivatives, and a wide range of powerful and straightforward synthetic strategies have been reported. In this review, the latest achievements in the cascade cyclization reactions of 1,7‐enynes are summarized, which could be separated into three categories: (1) Visible‐light‐induced reactions of 1,7‐enynes; (2) Metal‐free catalyzed reactions of 1,7‐enynes; (3) Transition‐metal‐catalyzed reactions of 1,7‐enynes.
Rapid detection of heat stress biomarkers in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) liver using targeted proteomics
Authors: Mendoza‐Porras Omar , Rusu Anca G. , Stratford Christopher , Wade Nicholas M.
Published: December 2023

Most fish are ectothermic; therefore, their physiology is significantly affected by temperature. Aquaculture fish have limited ability to avoid elevated water temperatures, with impacts increasing as a result of climate change. To date, quantifying gene expression has been proposed to monitor heat stress in salmon liver. This study aimed to establish a faster multiplexed proteomics method to measure the abundance of thermal stress biomarkers in liver of salmon reared at 15°C or 20°C. Moreover, this study aimed to determine the effects that sample pooling, and data normalisation using housekeeping (HK) protein peptides would exert over the statistical significance of these thermal stress markers. A multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mass spectrometry method, comprised 45 peptides derived from thermal stress markers and 10 peptides from HK proteins, was applied to measure these markers in liver of salmon reared at 15°C or 20°C. When samples were processed individually, 34 peptides were significant between salmon livers at 15°C or 20°C. In pooled samples, this decreased to five significant peptides. Peptides hprt1_HYADDLDR (hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl transferase) and gapdh_VPTPNVSVVDLTVR (glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase) were the most stable and unstable HK protein peptides, respectively. When data was normalised with hprt1_HYADDLDR, 16 peptides were significant in individual samples and 13 in pooled samples. Significant peptides serpinh1a_ADLSNISGK, SerpinH1_TNSILFIGR, ela2_VVGGEDVR and gapdh_VPTPNVSVVDLTVR were common regardless of data strategy. A fast and reliable MRM method was established to validate thermal stress markers in salmon liver, where individual samples yielded better results than pooled samples. Sample pooling was only better when combined with normalisation as it validated twice the number of markers than sample pooling alone. This method could be applied to monitoring stress response in experiments involving feeding additives designed to mitigate thermal stress or in selective breeding programs to help understanding family variance in thermal tolerance.
Enhancing deuterium/hydrogen evolution performance through synergistic effects of Ni and V2O3
Authors: Li Yanfeng , Xu Weiwei , Sheng Yuan , Jiang Chenghang , Wang Neo , Chen Yingda , Ma Zhen , Shao Liangbin , Wang Shibin , Zhang Shijie , Wang Jianguo
Published: December 2023

Compared to the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), the deuterium evolution reaction (DER) has slower kinetics that causes unsatisfactory performance of conventional HER catalysts in DER. Herein, we report a Ni/V2O3‐500 catalyst with nanosheet morphology that shows excellent performance in both alkaline DER and HER with ultralow overpotential of 64 mV (in 1 M NaOD) and 32 mV (in 1 M NaOH) at 10 mA cm−2. The activity remains stable after accelerated durability test and 1000 h of chronopotentiometric test at 500 mA cm−2. The high performance is attributed to uniform dispersion of Ni nanoparticles and synergistic effects between Ni and V2O3. Density functional theory modeling demonstrates that the synergistic effect optimizes the adsorption of H*/D* intermediate, promoting the reaction rate. This study provides valuable insights into metal‐support interactions in electrocatalysis which facilitates the development of superior DER/HER catalysts. The Ni/V2O3‐500 shows great potential for industrial applications.
The bubble size and rise velocity of bubble‐induced three‐phase inverse fluidized bed (BIFB)
Authors: Ma Keying , Sun Zeneng , Shao Yuanyuan , Zhu Jesse
Published: December 2023

The bubble size and rise velocity were investigated in detail using a new telecentric photographic probe in a pilot‐scale bubble‐induced three‐phase inverse fluidized bed (BIFB). By the influence of the bubble flow behavior, the particle bed goes through four different flow regimes with increasing gas velocity in BIFB. An obvious normal bubble size distribution caused by bubble coalescence and breakup was observed. A parameter of “size span” was proposed to describe the distribution width of bubble size. The average bubble size increases with the axial distance from the column bottom and with the gas velocity until reaching a relatively stable size. The radial distributions of the average bubble size are almost uniform but experience a decreasing trend near the column wall. The bubble rise velocity increases with the bubble size and the gas velocity. An empirical equation was established to predict successfully the bubble rise velocity in BIFB.
Predicting PC‐SAFT parameters based on COSMO‐RS
Authors: Dai Zhengxing , Wang Lei , Zuo Zhida , Fan Jing , Lu Xiaohua , Ji Xiaoyan
Published: December 2023

To predict the size (m, σ) and energy (ε) parameters of the perturbed‐chain statistical associating fluid theory (PC‐SAFT) based on the conductor‐like screening model for realistic solvents (COSMO‐RS), in this work, the PC‐SAFT model parameters of 304 substances were reviewed and summarized, their COSMO‐RS results linked to the size and energy were predicted, and the relationships between the PC‐SAFT parameters and COSMO‐RS results were obtained in 3 cases (Case 1: relationships based on n‐alkanes, Case 2: category‐specific relationships, Case 3: generic relationships for 138 substances). Case 2 (including Case 1) shows the lowest average absolute relative deviations (AARDs) of 7.63% (m), 3.05% (σ), and 9.05% (ε), while Case 3 provides the prediction capacity with AARDs of 10.00% (m), 4.05% (σ), and 13.21% (ε), which is better than those developed by others. Finally, the new PC‐SAFT parameters were used to predict the densities and vapor pressures of 8 representative substances and compared with the results using the original PC‐SAFT parameters, showing that the parameters in Case 3 can be used to reproduce densities and the parameters in Case 2 (including Case 1) can be used to reproduce both densities and vapor pressures.
Insight into the SO2 poisoning of heterobimetallic FeCu‐SSZ‐13 zeolite in NH3‐SCR reaction
Authors: Lin Zheguan , Wang Chan , Li Tiesen , Zhu Haibo , Jiang Lilong , Yue Yuanyuan , Bao Xiaojun
Published: December 2023

The SO2 poisoning of a heterobimetallic FeCu‐SSZ‐13 in selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3 (NH3‐SCR) was systematically investigated in this study. It was shown that when SO2 is involved in the feeding flue gas, the losses in the redox ability of active metals (primary contributor to deactivation) and in the number of Brønsted acid sites both inhibit the formation of NH4NO2 intermediate, resulting in the rapid deactivation of FeCu‐SSZ‐13. The SO2 poisoning of FeCu‐SSZ‐13 at low temperature is more serious than at high temperature, because of the more severe loss of redox ability of active metals. Unlike that of monometallic Cu‐/Fe‐CHA, the SO2 poisoning of the bimetallic one is saliently featured by that partial SO2 is oxidized to SO3 and partial Brønsted acid sites are destroyed due to the formation of H2SO4. This work may provide a fundamental understanding on the SO2 poisoning of heterobimetallic zeolite‐based NH3‐SCR catalysts.
General prediction models for void fraction and specific surface area of gas–liquid microflows
Authors: Sheng Lin , Zheng Chenglin , Chang Yu , Deng Jian , Luo Guangsheng
Published: December 2023

The flow characteristics of void fraction and specific surface area are important to predict the mass transfer and reaction performances in gas–liquid microreactors. However, the models and trends for the two parameters in different flow patterns remain ununified and insufficient. Accordingly, this work first time studies the void fraction and specific surface area in a very wide flow pattern range (Taylor, short bubble, bubbly, and bubble swarm flow). The results show that at the same gas–liquid flow rates, the void fraction decreases with bubble size in Taylor and short bubble flow but is totally opposite in bubbly and bubble swarm flow. Importantly, the variation of specific surface area with bubble size is independent of the flow pattern and decreases with bubble size. Finally, based on bubble size, two general models for the two parameters are developed. This work provides a new direction for the unification of flow characteristics.
Elucidating molecular transport behavior in vertically‐aligned 2D nanochannels of graphene‐based lamellar membranes
Authors: Wang Yongzheng , Liu Siyu , Chen Jingjing , Chen Chongchong , Wu Xiaoli , Yang Zhirong , Zhang Jie , Wang Jingtao
Published: December 2023

Two‐dimensional (2D) nanochannels with confined spacing and tunable microenvironment exhibit broad application prospects in molecule‐scale processes. However, mass transport behaviors in nanochannels have yet been clearly elucidated, due to the complex physical and chemical structures of nanochannels. Herein, a series of vertically‐aligned nanochannels with tunable chemistry were fabricated by embedding graphene‐based lamellar membranes into epoxy matrix. In this way, 2 mm‐length robust nanochannels can maintain the molecular transport configuration throughout the membrane without the disturbance from entrance and cross‐layer domains. Based on these platforms, it is demonstrated that molecule–channel and molecule–molecule interactions codetermine molecular transport efficiency by controlling molecular configuration and transfer friction. Significantly, matched interaction energies permit fast transport with methanol permeance of over 26.1 L m−2 h−1 bar−1, which outperforms most reported long‐range nanochannels, while mismatched interaction energies fail to do so. In addition, the vertically‐aligned nanochannels membranes hold exceptional stability because of the mechanical protection of epoxy.
Tooth chipping patterns and dental caries suggest a soft fruit diet in early anthropoids
Authors: Towle Ian , Borths Matthew R. , Loch Carolina
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Fossils from the Fayum Depression, Egypt, are crucial for understanding anthropoid evolution due to the abundance of taxa and the time interval they represent (late Eocene to early Oligocene). Dietary and foraging behavioral interpretations suggest fruits were their dominant food source, although hard foods (e.g., seeds and nuts) and leaves could have been important dietary components for particular groups. In this study, we compare dental chipping patterns in five Fayum primate genera with chipping data for extant primates, to assess potential hard object feeding in early anthropoids.

Materials and Methods

Original specimens were studied (Aegyptopithecus: n = 100 teeth; Parapithecus: n = 72, Propliopithecus: n = 99, Apidium: n = 82; Catopithecus: n = 68); with the number, severity, and position of chips recorded. Dental caries was also recorded, due to its association with soft fruit consumption in extant primates.

Results

Tooth chipping was low across all five genera studied, with a pooled chipping prevalence of 5% (21/421). When split into the three anthropoid families represented, chipping prevalence ranged from 2.6% (4/154) in Parapithecidae, 6% (12/199) in Propliopithecidae, and 7.4% (5/68) in Oligopithecidae. Three carious lesions were identified in Propliopithecidae.

Discussion

The chipping prevalence is low when compared to extant anthropoids (range from 4% to 40%) and is consistent with a predominantly soft fruit diet, but not with habitual hard food mastication. The presence of caries supports consumption of soft, sugary fruits, at least in Propliopithecidae. Our results add support for low dietary diversity in early anthropoids, with soft fruits as likely dominant food sources.
Selenium‐doped albumin nanoparticles enhance tamoxifen‐induced anticancer effects in 4T‐1 mouse breast cancer cells
Authors: Gharbavi Mahmoud , Johari Behrooz , Tabar Romina Mozafari , Sharafi Ali
Published: December 2023

In this study, we aimed to improve the delivery and efficacy of the well‐known anticancer drug, tamoxifen (TAM), through its encapsulation in bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (BSA NPs) and their hybridization with selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs). The developed nanostructures were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) imaging. The impact of nanostructures on 4T‐1 cancer cells was assessed through MTT and flow cytometry assays to measure cytotoxicity and apoptosis rates, respectively. FT‐IR and UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed the successful encapsulation of TAM within BSA NPs. EDS analysis confirmed the Se integration into BSA‐TAM@Se NPs, signifying successful hybridization. Size and zeta potential measurements revealed the average hydrodynamic size and surface charge of the nanostructures. BSA NPs, BSA@Se NPs, and Se NPs showed the sizes ranging from 153.37 ± 1.02 to 229.63 ± 1.36 nm, with zeta potential values from −10.12 ± 0.26 to −28.45 ± 0.40 mV. Hemocompatibility studies demonstrated minimal hemolytic activity of the nanostructures, indicating their biocompatibility for intravenous administration. Cellular toxicity assays showed higher cytotoxicity of BSA‐TAM@Se NPs compared to other formulations (****p < 0.0001). The increased cell death in 4T‐1 breast cancer cells highlights the enhanced therapeutic potential of BSA‐TAM@Se NPs. Apoptosis analysis revealed a significant increase in apoptosis rate in 4T‐1 cells treated with BSA‐TAM@Se NPs compared to other formulations (****p < 0.0001), emphasizing their ability to induce programmed cell death. These findings support the rational importance of BSA NPs as drug nanocarriers and their hybridization with Se NPs to improve therapeutic effects. Finally, we suggest that the developed BSA‐TAM@Se NPs can be used as a potential therapeutic approach in combination with other tools such as X‐ray irradiation in future studies.