bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐Dimensional Bionic Micro‐Nanostructure Surface for Controllable Fog Harvesting: from Fabrication to Application
Authors: Pei Wenle , Wang Jianmei , Li Xueyan , Li Yan , Ning Ke , Wang Jun , Zhang Qiuya
Published: March 2024

With the rapid growth of the population and the development of the economy, the shortage of freshwater resources has become a worldwide problem. Utilizing fog harvesting provides a practical solution to relieve the water shortage problem for residents in arid regions. This review summarizes the typical fog harvesting phenomena in nature in detail, the construction methods, fog harvesting performance, and the action mechanism of different biomimetic micro‐nano structures from one‐dimensional (1D), two‐dimensional (2D), and three‐dimensional (3D) perspectives. The influence of surface micro‐nano structure and wettability on water harvesting performance is analyzed. Finally, the challenges and future development directions of multi‐scale micro‐nano surface controllable water harvesting technology are summarized and prospected, which provides a good idea for the design of bioinspired micro‐nanomaterials and promotes water harvesting from scientific research to practical application.
Strong Metal‐Support Interaction‐Induced Regulation of Hydrogen Adsorption Behavior of Uniform Ru Nanoparticles Integrated with CoP Nanosheets for High‐Efficiency Electrochemical Hydrogen Production
Authors: Zhu Yufeng , Li Jing , Zhou Guangyao , Qian Leiming , Fang Yu , Xu Mingjiang , Pang Huan , Zhang Mingyi , Xu Jianping , Yang Jun , Xu Lin , Tang Yawen
Published: March 2024

The ingenious modification of the hydrogen adsorption state of ruthenium (Ru) for achieving high‐efficiency electrocatalytic performance is of vital importance for water electrolysis technology. Herein, a novel heterostructured catalyst composed of highly dispersed ultrafine Ru nanoparticles immobilized on CoP nanosheet (denoted as Ru/CoP hereafter) is developed through a feasible “impregnation‐phosphorization” strategy. Experimental results and density functional theory (DFT) simulations collectively indicate that the strong metal‐support interaction (SMSI) effect between Ru nanoparticles and CoP nanosheet substrate can dramatically tailor the electronic configurations of active centers, thus accelerating the charge transfer rate and regulating the hydrogen binding energy. Consequently, the Ru/CoP electrocatalyst with optimal Ru loading content demonstrates prominent HER performance in alkaline solution with a low overpotential of 36 mV to afford a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 73.0 mV dec−1, which can almost compete with that of commercial Pt/C. This work provides a new inspiration for the elaborate modification of intermediate adsorption capacity and enhancement of electrocatalytic performance for high‐efficiency electrocatalysts in energy conversion fields.
Charging Ahead: Examining the Future Therapeutic Potential of Electroceuticals
Authors: Balasubramanian Swarnalatha , Weston David A. , Levin Michael , Davidian Devon Charles Cardoso
Published: March 2024

Electroceuticals derived from electronic and pharmaceuticals is a term coined to describe the therapeutic manipulation of neuronal signaling. In recent years, the complexity and range of applications of electroceuticals have grown considerably. Therefore, here a revised ontology and framework for defining electroceuticals that broadens the concept beyond neuron‐targeted interventions is suggested. This more inclusive framework aims to provide greater coherence and bring together different stakeholders to accelerate progress in this field. It is suggested that electroceuticals can be categorized according to the level of physiology for which they act: cellular, tissue, organ, and systemic. Emerging developments for each category of electroceuticals and future directions are discussed from a pharmaceutical industry perspective. Potential challenges are highlighted for translation of electroceuticals, such as a lack of clinical biomarkers and incomplete understanding of mechanisms of action and offer solutions for stimulating progress in this exciting field.
Manipulation of Glutamatergic Neuronal Activity in the Primary Motor Cortex Regulates Cardiac Function in Normal and Myocardial Infarction Mice
Authors: Bo Wenyan , Cai Mengxin , Ma Yixuan , Di Lingyun , Geng Yanbin , Li Hangzhuo , Tang Caicai , Tai Fadao , He Zhixiong , Tian Zhenjun
Published: March 2024

Cardiac function is under neural regulation; however, brain regions in the cerebral cortex responsible for regulating cardiac function remain elusive. In this study, retrograde trans‐synaptic viral tracing is used from the heart to identify a specific population of the excitatory neurons in the primary motor cortex (M1) that influences cardiac function in mice. Optogenetic activation of M1 glutamatergic neurons increases heart rate, ejection fraction, and blood pressure. By contrast, inhibition of M1 glutamatergic neurons decreased cardiac function and blood pressure as well as tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in the heart. Using viral tracing and optogenetics, the median raphe nucleus (MnR) is identified as one of the key relay brain regions in the circuit from M1 that affect cardiac function. Then, a mouse model of cardiac injury is established caused by myocardial infarction (MI), in which optogenetic activation of M1 glutamatergic neurons impaired cardiac function in MI mice. Moreover, ablation of M1 neurons decreased the levels of norepinephrine and cardiac TH expression, and enhanced cardiac function in MI mice. These findings establish that the M1 neurons involved in the regulation of cardiac function and blood pressure. They also help the understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying cardiovascular regulation.
Reconfigurable Micro/Nano‐Optical Devices Based on Phase Transitions: From Materials, Mechanisms to Applications
Authors: Li Chensheng , Pan Ruhao , Gu Changzhi , Guo Haiming , Li Junjie
Published: March 2024

In recent years, numerous efforts have been devoted to exploring innovative micro/nano‐optical devices (MNODs) with reconfigurable functionality, which is highly significant because of the progressively increasing requirements for next‐generation photonic systems. Fortunately, phase change materials (PCMs) provide an extremely competitive pathway to achieve this goal. The phase transitions induce significant changes to materials in optical, electrical properties or shapes, triggering great research interests in applying PCMs to reconfigurable micro/nano‐optical devices (RMNODs). More specifically, the PCMs‐based RMNODs can interact with incident light in on‐demand or adaptive manners and thus realize unique functions. In this review, RMNODs based on phase transitions are systematically summarized and comprehensively overviewed from materials, phase change mechanisms to applications. The reconfigurable optical devices consisting of three kinds of typical PCMs are emphatically introduced, including chalcogenides, transition metal oxides, and shape memory alloys, highlighting the reversible state switch and dramatic contrast of optical responses along with designated utilities generated by phase transition. Finally, a comprehensive summary of the whole content is given, discussing the challenge and outlooking the potential development of the PCMs‐based RMNODs in the future.
Activation of Bivalent Gene POU4F1 Promotes and Maintains Basal‐like Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Jiahui , Miao Nanyan , Lao Liyan , Deng Wen , Wang Jiawen , Zhu Xiaofeng , Huang Yongsheng , Lin Huayue , Zeng Wenfeng , Zhang Wei , Tan Luyuan , Yuan Xiaoqing , Zeng Xin , Zhu Jingkun , Chen Xueman , Song Erwei , Yang Linbin , Nie Yan , Huang Di
Published: March 2024

Basal‐like breast cancer (BLBC) is the most aggressive molecular subtype of breast cancer with worse prognosis and fewer treatment options. The underlying mechanisms upon BLBC transcriptional dysregulation and its upstream transcription factors (TFs) remain unclear. Here, among the hyperactive candidate TFs of BLBC identified by bioinformatic analysis, POU4F1 is uniquely upregulated in BLBC and is associated with poor prognosis. POU4F1 is necessary for the tumor growth and malignant phenotypes of BLBC through regulating G1/S transition by direct binding at the promoter of CDK2 and CCND1. More importantly, POU4F1 maintains BLBC identity by repressing ERα expression through CDK2‐mediated EZH2 phosphorylation and subsequent H3K27me3 modification in ESR1 promoter. Knocking out POU4F1 in BLBC cells reactivates functional ERα expression, rendering BLBC sensitive to tamoxifen treatment. In‐depth epigenetic analysis reveals that the subtype‐specific re‐configuration and activation of the bivalent chromatin in the POU4F1 promoter contributes to its unique expression in BLBC, which is maintained by DNA demethylase TET1. Together, these results reveal a subtype‐specific epigenetically activated TF with critical role in promoting and maintaining BLBC, suggesting that POU4F1 is a potential therapeutic target for BLBC.
Thromboembolic risk of carfilzomib or bortezomib in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: A comparative systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Costa Bruno Almeida , Costa Thomaz Alexandre , Saravia Sara Diaz , Felix Nicole , Tan Carlyn Rose , Korde Neha , Richter Joshua
Published: March 2024

Thrombosis represents a frequent and potentially severe complication in individuals diagnosed with multiple myeloma (MM). These events can be driven by both the disease as well as the therapies themselves. Overall, available evidence is inconclusive about the differential thrombogenicity of carfilzomib/lenalidomide/dexamethasone (KRd) and bortezomib/lenalidomide/dexamethasone (VRd). This meta‐analysis compares the risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE; including deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) and arterial thromboembolism (ATE; including myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke) with KRd versus VRd as primary therapy for newly diagnosed MM (NDMM). Out of 510 studies identified after deduplication, one randomized controlled trial and five retrospective cohort studies were included. We analyzed 2304 patients (VRd: 1380; KRd: 924) for VTE events and 2179 patients (VRd: 1316; KRd: 863) for ATE events. Lower rates of VTE were observed in the VRd group when compared with the KRd group (6.16% vs. 8.87%; odds ratio [OR], 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.32–0.88; p = .01). Both treatment groups exhibited minimal ATE incidence, with no significant difference between them (0.91% vs. 1.16%; OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.24–4.20; p = .99). In view of potential biases from retrospective studies, heterogeneity of baseline population characteristics, and limited access to patient‐level data (e.g., VTE risk stratification and type of thromboprophylaxis regimen used) inherent to this meta‐analysis, additional research is warranted to further validate our findings and refine strategies for thrombosis prevention in MM.
Stop stunting—A misguided campaign by well‐meaning nutritionists
Authors: Hermanussen Michael , Scheffler Christiane
Published: March 2024

Objective

“Stop stunting” is the central focus of the national Indonesian campaign to improve child health. We provide an autoethnographic statement on the currently practiced strategy that commits 23 ministries and an estimated $3.9 billion per year to coordinating nutrition interventions that are supposed to address the underlying causes of stunting.

Methods

We visited six community health posts (posyandus) in West Timor and in Java and participated in routine child health examinations. We documented our impressions and discussed them with Indonesian colleagues, health officials, and local physicians.

Results

Routine health checks for children include anthropometry (height, weight, head, and mid‐upper arm circumference), immunizations, and documentation in the children's health records. The examinations do not include a physical examination, vision and hearing tests of the child, health questionnaires, or information on nutrition. No specific information or recommendations are given to the mothers.

Conclusion

Stunting is highly prevalent in Indonesia and “Stop‐stunting” campaigns have become a national issue. Yet, their impact is disillusioning. Stunting is associated with a way of life that differs from that in developed Western countries today and was prevalent in feudal and other nondemocratic societies. We do not want to throw away policies that try to improve growth in children, but instead of spending money for dubious interventions as we have encountered in Indonesia, we rather suggest spending thoughts on the political and emotional causes of poor growth in otherwise healthy Indonesian children.
The bidirectional longitudinal association between academic performance and cardiovascular disease risk factors in adolescents
Authors: Adelantado‐Renau Mireia , Duncan Michael , Crotti Matteo , Monzonís‐Carda Irene , Moliner‐Urdiales Diego , Beltran‐Valls Maria Reyes
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The limited prior research examining the association between academic performance and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in youth did not explore the reciprocal association between these constructs, and analyzed CVD risk factors individually. Thus, the aim of the present study was to explore the bidirectional longitudinal association between clustered CVD risk score and academic performance in adolescents over a 24‐month interval.

Methods

A total of 237 adolescents (45.6% girls), aged 13.9 ± 0.3 years old at baseline, from DADOS (Deporte, ADOlescencia y Salud) study were included in this study. A clustered CVD risk score was created by calculating the mean age‐ and gender‐standardized z‐scores of waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, triglycerides, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, and cardiorespiratory fitness (inversed). Academic performance was assessed through the final academic grades and the test of educational abilities.

Results

Our results showed that the clustered CVD risk score at baseline was not associated with academic performance 24 months later (all p > .05). Nevertheless, except for physical education, academic grades at baseline were inversely associated with clustered CVD risk score at follow‐up in adolescents (β ranged from −0.140 to −0.102; all p < .05). No associations were found between academic abilities at baseline and clustered CVD risk score at follow‐up (all p > .05).

Conclusion

Academic grades could help predict CVD risk 24 months later during adolescence. Education professionals should foster adolescents' academic performance not only to improve academic results but also to maximize future cardiovascular health benefits.
Hyperandrogenism associated with polycystic ovary syndrome may have a protective effect against fracture risk in female athletes: A pilot study
Authors: Manthey Courtney , Cepon‐Robins Tara , Warrener Anna
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), characterized by polycystic ovaries, anovulation, and hyperandrogenism, is believed to be an evolutionary mismatch disease. Past research has examined PCOS as a uniform disease, despite variation in phenotypes across diagnostic categories, but establishing an evolutionary mismatch requires a focus on individual traits. We suggest PCOS hyperandrogenism may have been beneficial in ancestral environments because it reduced fracture risk and associated morbidity and mortality due to increased bone mineral density (BMD). We test this hypothesis by assessing fracture frequency, a proxy for BMD, in highly active females with and without PCOS hyperandrogenism.

Methods

Sixty‐seven reproductive‐aged women were surveyed and grouped as: high intensity interval training (HIIT; a proxy for metabolic and physical stress) athletes with hyperandrogenic PCOS (31.24%), HIIT athletes without PCOS (29.85%), and nonathletes with hyperandrogenic PCOS (38.81%). Fracture occurrence was compared between the groups using independent samples Kruskal–Wallis tests for non‐normally distributed data, and multiple regression analysis was used to examine anthropometrics, lifestyle and reproductive factors, PCOS status, and exercise frequency on fracture occurrence.

Results

Fracture occurrence was higher in non‐PCOS athletes (3.8 ± 4.3) than PCOS‐athletes (1.2 ± 1.4, p = .11) and PCOS‐non‐athletes (1.0 ± 1.4, p < .01). PCOS‐athletes and nonathletes did not differ significantly in fracture occurrence (p = .33). These results were independent of factors associated with bone health.

Conclusions

These preliminary findings suggest females with PCOS‐related hyperandrogenism may be less likely to experience bone fractures and provide an initial step to explaining why PCOS has persisted despite marked negative reproductive consequences in modern populations.
Luxenburger's 1939 Essay on “Schizophrenia and its Hereditary Circle”
Authors: Kendler Kenneth S. , Klee Astrid
Published: March 2024

In 1939, Hans Luxenburger published a detailed overview of the current status of schizophrenia genetics research, reaching six major conclusions. First, schizophrenia is clearly a hereditary disease. Second, however, schizophrenia is not the hereditary trait itself but rather the consequences of a slowly developing biological progress, the nature of which remains entirely unknown. Third, the full manifestation of the disorder requires certain environmental influences that must come into play. In around 30% of cases, the environment can inhibit hereditary factors so that the predisposition does not manifest in schizophrenia. Fourth, the mode of inheritance of schizophrenia remains unknown, although recessivity is more likely than dominance and monomerism is more likely than polymerism. Fifth, current evidence suggests that schizophrenia is likely etiologically homogenous. Sixth, schizophrenia is part of a hereditary circle that includes “normal” variants of the human personality (schizothymia), a pathological version of this dimension (schizoidia), and other schizophrenia‐like delusional syndromes. Luxenburger is skeptical of efforts to clarify further Mendelian transmission models in the absence of pathophysiological markers because schizophrenia cannot serve as a typical phenotype for genetic analysis. By contrast, he strongly supports empirical work on hereditary prognosis, which does not depend on assumptions about any particular phenotype–genotype relationship.
Misconceptions about corporal punishment in Islam
Authors: Shafiq Mohammed , Munir Akhtar , Little Sarah
Published: March 2024

Early Islamic scriptures mention the use of corporal punishment parenting strategies to rectify behaviour in children. However, many Islamic scholars strongly warn against employing corporal punishment as a discipline strategy. This discussion paper aimed to examine the misconceptions surrounding the use of corporal punishment as a parenting strategy in religious teachings and explores the sociocultural norms that act as a barrier to effective Islamic parenting practices. This discussion asserts that parenting practices engaging corporal punishment discipline strategies are not an inherent part of Islamic doctrine and both historic and contemporary Islamic scholars endorse alternative, peaceful parenting strategies in line with Islamic values. Dissemination of a holistic understanding of religious teachings regarding parenting strategies within the Muslim population is needed. It discusses the recommendations for educational opportunities to encourage and promote effective parenting strategies, which aim to avoid the use of corporal punishment in Muslim communities and nations.
Clinical validation of the PrecivityAD2 blood test: A mass spectrometry‐based test with algorithm combining %p‐tau217 and Aβ42/40 ratio to identify presence of brain amyloid
Authors: Meyer Matthew R. , Kirmess Kristopher M. , Eastwood Stephanie , Wente‐Roth Traci L. , Irvin Faith , Holubasch Mary S. , Venkatesh Venky , Fogelman Ilana , Monane Mark , Hanna Lucy , Rabinovici Gil D. , Siegel Barry A. , Whitmer Rachel A. , Apgar Charles , Bateman Randall J. , Holtzman David M. , Irizarry Michael , Verbel David , Sachdev Pallavi , Ito Satoshi , Contois John , Yarasheski Kevin E. , Braunstein Joel B. , Verghese Philip B. , West Tim
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

With the availability of disease‐modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease (AD), it is important for clinicians to have tests to aid in AD diagnosis, especially when the presence of amyloid pathology is a criterion for receiving treatment.

METHODS

High‐throughput, mass spectrometry‐based assays were used to measure %p‐tau217 and amyloid beta (Aβ)42/40 ratio in blood samples from 583 individuals with suspected AD (53% positron emission tomography [PET] positive by Centiloid > 25). An algorithm (PrecivityAD2 test) was developed using these plasma biomarkers to identify brain amyloidosis by PET.

RESULTS

The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC‐ROC) for %p‐tau217 (0.94) was statistically significantly higher than that for p‐tau217 concentration (0.91). The AUC‐ROC for the PrecivityAD2 test output, the Amyloid Probability Score 2, was 0.94, yielding 88% agreement with amyloid PET. Diagnostic performance of the APS2 was similar by ethnicity, sex, age, and apoE4 status.

DISCUSSION

The PrecivityAD2 blood test showed strong clinical validity, with excellent agreement with brain amyloidosis by PET.
The Comprehensive Roadmap Toward Malaria Elimination Using Graphene and its Promising 2D Analogs
Authors: He Fangzhou , Junior George , Konar Rajashree , Huang Yuanding , Zhang Ke , Ke Lijing , Niu Meng , Goh Boon Tong , Moutaouakil Amine El , Nessim Gilbert Daniel , Belmoubarik Mohamed , Peng Weng Kung
Published: March 2024

Malaria is a major public health concern with over 200 million new cases annually, resulting in significant financial costs. Preventive measures and diagnostic remedies are crucial in saving lives from malaria, and especially in developing nations. 2D materials are, therefore, ideal for fighting such an epidemic. Graphene and its derivatives are extensively studied due to their exceptional properties in this case. The biomedical applications of graphene‐based nanomaterials have gained significant interest in recent years due to their remarkable biocompatibility, solubility, and selectivity. Their unique physicochemical characteristics, like ample surface area, biofunctionality, high purity, solubility, substantial drug‐loading capacity, and superior ability to penetrate cell membranes, make them up‐and‐coming candidates as biodelivery carriers. In this review, crucial graphene‐based technologies to combat malaria are discussed. The advancements in preventing and diagnosing malaria and the biocompatibility of graphene‐based nanomaterials are emphasized. The roadmap for using graphene‐based technology toward achieving the WHO global malaria elimination by 2030 is presented and discussed in detail. Graphene oxide, the most critical biocompatible graphene derivative for health sensors, is also discussed. Additionally, 2D chalcogenides, specifically sulfide‐based transition‐metal dichalcogenides, are reviewed in detecting malaria during its early stages.
Molecule and Microstructure Modulations of Cyano‐Containing Electrodes for High‐Performance Fully Organic Batteries
Authors: Wang Yonglin , Zhu Yunhai , Chen Zixuan , Yang Xu , Zhang Rongyu , Wang Hengguo , Yang Yingkui
Published: March 2024

Cyano‐containing electrodes usually promise high theoretical potentials while suffering from uncontrollable self‐dissolution and sluggish reaction kinetics. Herein, to remedy their limitations, an unprecedented core–shell heterostructured electrode of carbon nanotubes encapsulated in poly(1,4‐dicyanoperfluorobenzene sulfide) (CNT@PFDCB) is rationally crafted via molecule and microstructure modulations. Specifically, the linkage of sulfide bridges of PFDCB prevents the active cyano groups from dissolving, resulting in a robust structure. The fluorinations modulate the electronic configurations in frontier orbitals, allowing higher electrical conductivity and elevated output voltage. Combined with the core–shell architecture to unlock the sluggish diffusion kinetics for both electrons and guest ions, the CNT@PFDCB exhibits an impressive capacity (203.5 mAh g−1), remarkable rate ability (127.6 mAh g−1 at 3.0 A g−1), and exceptional cycling stability (retaining 81.1 % capacity after 3000 cycles at 1.0 A g−1). Additionally, the Li‐storage mechanisms regarding PFDCB are thoroughly revealed by in situ attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy, in situ Raman spectroscopy, and theoretical simulations, which involve the coordination interaction between Li ions and cyano groups and the electron delocalization along the conjugated skeleton. More importantly, a practical fully organic cell based on the CNT@PFDCB is well‐validated that demonstrates a tremendous potential of cyanopolymer as the cathode to replace its inorganic counterparts.
Simultaneous Inside and Outside Functionalization of Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Kraus Jan , Meingast Laura , Hald Janina , Beil Sebastian B. , Biskupek Johannes , Ritterhoff Christian L. , Gsänger Sebastian , Eisenkolb Jasmin , Meyer Bernd , Kaiser Ute , Maultzsch Janina , von Delius Max
Published: March 2024

Functionalizing single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in a robust way that does not affect the sp2 carbon framework is a considerable research challenge. Here we describe how triiodide salts of positively charged macrocycles can be used not only to functionalize SWCNTs from the outside, but simultaneously from the inside. We employed disulfide exchange in aqueous solvent to maximize the solvophobic effect and therefore achieve a high degree of macrocycle immobilization. Characterization by Raman spectroscopy, EDX‐STEM and HR‐TEM clearly showed that serendipitously this wet‐chemical functionalization procedure also led to the encapsulation of polyiodide chains inside the nanotubes. The resulting three‐shell composite materials are redox‐active and experience an intriguing interplay of electrostatic, solvophobic and mechanical effects that could be of interest for applications in energy storage.
Modified electrodes: Utilizing Cu‐modified graphene oxide nanosheets as a cathode in electro‐oxidation synthesis of mild Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction under green and sustainable conditions
Authors: Abdullaev Sherzod , Singh Durgesh , Al‐Delfi Mohammed N. , Kumar Abhinav , Aziz Qusay Husam , Elawady Ahmed , Al‐Anber Mohammed A. , Al‐Rubaye Ameer H. , Ali Amjad , Ahmad Naushad
Published: March 2024

This study presents an eco‐conscious approach to enhance the efficiency of the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. We first synthesized graphene oxide nanosheets using the Hummers method and then coated them to incorporate metallic copper on their surface. Following this, we conducted various analyses, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, cyclic voltammetry (CV), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) identification, to characterize these modified nanosheets. Subsequently, we utilized Cu‐modified graphene oxide nanosheets as cathode catalysts in an electro‐oxidation synthesis setup. To verify the effectiveness of this novel approach, we utilized bromobenzene and phenylboronic acid as model substrates to synthesize biphenyl compounds. The reaction yielded impressive product yields ranging from 87% to 93%. Operating under environmentally friendly conditions, this electro‐oxidation synthesis not only enhances selectivity but also significantly reduces the environmental impact of the reaction. Our findings highlight the potential of this green chemistry strategy, offering a promising avenue for sustainable and efficient organic synthesis, as evidenced by the successful coupling of bromobenzene and phenylboronic acid with consistently high yields.
Co doping induced phase transition and its distinct effects on the catalytic performance of MnO2 toward toluene oxidation
Authors: Jiang Shan , Li Zhidong , Liu Wei , Zhang Xuejun
Published: March 2024

Manganese oxides are very important and conventional catalysts that have demonstrated appreciable catalytic activity for the oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Nevertheless, pure manganese oxides suffer from poor activity especially at low temperatures, making it difficult to meet industrial applications. In this work, Co species were successfully doped into the lattice of MnO2 aiming at constructing defects to boost its catalytic performance for VOCs oxidation. In combination with the results of systematic characterizations, we found that Co doping forced the catalyst to transform from α‐MnO2 to spinel phase (Co,Mn)(Co,Mn)2O4. During this process, the metal–oxygen bonds are significantly weakened, which induces the massive generation of oxygen defects, endowing the Co modified catalysts with enhanced redox property and improved ability to adsorb and activate gaseous oxygen. As a result, Co doped catalysts show much better catalytic activity compared with pristine α‐MnO2, among which Mn10Co10 exhibits the best performance showing a decrease of 41°C and 51°C in T50 and T90 compared with the raw sample, respectively. Furthermore, Mn10Co10 demonstrates excellent stability, water resistance, and reusability, illustrating a great potential for industrial applications. Moreover, path of toluene decomposition over Co10Mn10 was revealed by in situ DRIFTS experiment, which complies with the sequence of toluene → benzyl alcohol → benzaldehyde → benzoate → maleic anhydride → CO2 and H2O.
Preparation of a novel bio‐based aerogel with excellent hydrophobic flame‐retardancy and high thermal insulation performance
Authors: Zhang Ruike , Fu Yan , Qin Wangping , Qiu Shuaishuai , Chang Jie
Published: March 2024

Sodium‐alginate‐based aerogels possess wide prospects in the fields of packaging, aerospace, industrial construction and transportation because of their environmental compatibility and thermal insulation, but it is still a challenge to obtain a sodium alginate‐based aerogel with high flame retardancy and good thermal insulation. Herein, a sodium‐alginate‐based aerogel with high flame retardancy, thermal insulation and good hydrophobic properties was prepared by two‐step crosslinking strategy of phytic acid and metal ions and liquid phase deposition of trans‐cinnamic acid. As a result, the prepared SA/PA Mn+ aerogels obtained excellent flame retardancy (UL‐94 V‐0, LOI 50.1%) and rapid self‐extinguishing, and SA/PA Mn+ aerogels obtained good hydrophobic ability (CA = 134.2°). In addition, the mechanical properties of SA/PA Mn+ aerogels have also been improved, the compressive modulus increased from 0.66 to 6.37 MPa, and the specific modulus increased from 15.7 to 140.2 MPa cm −3 g−1. This research broadens the application of bio‐based flame‐retardant aerogels in the fields of packaging, aerospace, industrial construction and transportation.
Strategies for the fast optimization of the glass transition temperature of sustainable epoxy resin systems via machine learning
Authors: Rothenhäusler Florian , Ruckdaeschel Holger
Published: March 2024

Aligned with the prevailing sustainability paradigm, the imperative adoption of bio‐based substitutes for constituents within petroleum‐derived epoxy resin becomes evident. Blending bio‐based and petroleum‐based epoxy resins and curing agents, establishes a synergistic compromise addressing both sustainability imperatives and the mechanical efficacy of thermosets. The conventional approach to discovering optimal compositions for multi‐component mixtures under specific boundary conditions includes empirical trial and error and is seen as a protracted and inefficient endeavor. Conversely, leveraging machine learning might afford a streamlined and confident resolution to this challenge. This investigation elucidates the requisite strategies for maximizing the efficiency of material property optimization through the application of Bayesian optimization and active learning. Illustratively, the study demonstrates the proficient optimization of the glass transition temperature within a four‐component epoxy resin system. This optimization is conducted across varying ranges of bio‐content and cost considerations. The study underscores the utility of machine learning in achieving this task with notable efficiency. The efficacy of least squares, kernel ridge regression, Gaussian process regression, and artificial neural networks, is meticulously evaluated through comprehensive seven‐fold cross‐validation and validated against experimental data.
A green mediated synthesis of glass fiber‐nickel ferrite‐ polyaniline ternary composite: An excellent thermal stability and outstanding electromagnetic interference shielding performance
Authors: Chandran Shine R. , Krishnan Raji R. , Johnson Elizabath , Prema K. H.
Published: March 2024

The present study reports the preparation of a ternary composite with enhanced shielding performance toward electromagnetic waves using in situ polymerization of aniline on fiber‐ferrite binary composite. The polymerization is carried out in a green medium lime juice, which acts as an efficient dopant. The composite is amalgamated with varying weight percentages of ferrite (ranging from 25% to 100%) while maintaining a constant weight percentage of fiber. The presence of the fiber in the binary and ternary composite could enhance the thermal stability of the material, highlighting its applicability in a wide range of temperatures. The DC conductivity, AC conductivity, and dielectric properties are investigated, revealing significant performance enhancements. The ternary composite demonstrates excellent conductivity in the range of 10−210−1 S/cm, attributed to the polaron/bi‐polaron interaction paradigm. Furthermore, the electromagnetic interference shielding, microwave absorption, and reflection capabilities of the composites are assessed within the frequency range of 8–12 GHz. The optimized composite, featuring aniline (0.4 M) and glass fiber with ferrite in a 1:1 ratio, exhibits an outstanding shielding value of 32 dB. These results point toward the potential of this ternary composite material as an effective shield against electromagnetic pollution.
Preparation and properties of cationic waterborne polyurethane/acrylate for fluorine‐free water repellents
Authors: Jiang Yang , Wang Chuanli , Liu Meng , Gu Biao , Wang Xiao , Xu Changhai , Xiao Guowei , Miao Dagang , Du Jinmei
Published: March 2024

In this work, cationic waterborne polyurethane/acrylate (WPUA) was synthesized for water repellent in cotton fabrics to replace fluorine‐containing finishing agents with the concerns of ecosystems and human health. First, the tertiary amines monomers, N‐methyl diethanolamine, 3‐dimethylamine‐1, 2‐propylene glycol, N,N′‐bis (2‐hydroxyethyl)piperazine, were used as chain extenders to prepare waterborne polyurethane, respectively. Long‐chain octadecyl acrylate monomers were then grafted to the waterborne polyurethane by a self‐emulsifying method. The stable WPUA suspensions of positively charged latexes were obtained and could be finished on cotton fabrics via a simple pad‐curing process. The coated cotton fabrics were capable of repelling common liquids without any penetration, and the contact angles of the treated cotton fabrics could reach 150°. The WPUA latex films also exhibited good tensile mechanical properties and thermal dimensional stability. The cotton fabric coated with the WPUA showed good laundering durability, and its static water contact angle was still maintained at 142° even after 50 times washing. This work not only highlights the structural design and preparation but also provides a feasible strategy for fluorine‐free water repellency in cotton fabrics, which has great potential application prospects for a variety of fields.
Multifunctional flexible strain sensor based on three‐dimensional core‐shell structures of silver nanoparticles/natural rubber
Authors: Chen Zihao , Sun Jinyu , Zhan Ziwei , Yuan Yizhong , Tian Xiaohui , Jin Jie , Wu Wangbao , Ayikanbaier Kadier
Published: March 2024

Conventional wearables may pose a health risk by promoting the growth of bacteria on the skin's surface due to sweating or contamination. Here, a multifunctional strain‐sensing composite has been fabricated through the combination of highly elastic natural rubber (NR) with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), which possess antimicrobial and electrical conductivity properties. A 3D core‐shell structure composed of AgNPs and NR microspheres effectively reduces the percolation threshold of the AgNPs conductive network. As a strain sensor, the composite film presents a wide sensing range (0%–970%), an exceptionally high gauge factor (GF) value (59.3), and favorable cycling stability (over 1500 cycles at 50%). Finally, the composite film also exhibits antibacterial and hydrophobic properties, indicating its potential for use in challenging environments.
Pure chitosan multifilament yarns made using a semi‐industrial pilot scale wet‐spinning process with ionic liquids
Authors: Kuznik Irina , Kruppke Iris , Pötzsch Hendrik Florian , Cherif Chokri
Published: March 2024

The ionic liquid 1‐ethyl‐3‐methyl‐imidazolium acetate (EMIMOAc) is used to develop a wet‐spinning process for the manufacturing of chitosan multifilament yarns on a semi‐industrial pilot scale. Commercial chitosans of different qualities, properties, and deacetylation degree ≤85% are used to prepare of spinning dopes with solids content of 6.0–8.5 wt.% using EMIMOAc as a solvent. The viscometric properties are characterized by rheological tests. The manufacturing of the pure chitosan multifilament yarns of different fineness and filament count from the prepared spinning dopes is performed on a pilot wet‐spinning plant. The obtained yarn properties are evaluated by optical (scanning electron microscope, light microscope), structural (infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction), and textile‐physical characterization. Chitosan multifilament yarns with high performance, tenacities of ~20–26 cN tex−1 and textile processability in weaving, knitting and braiding processes are manufactured in this work.
Morpholinodiazenyl chalcone blocks influenza A virus capsid uncoating by perturbing the clathrin‐mediated vesicular trafficking pathway
Authors: Thottasseri Ahammed A. , Kaur Gaganpreet , Ramesh Deepthi , Banerjee Indranil , Kannan Tharanikkarasu
Published: March 2024

Influenza A virus (IAV) is a highly contagious respiratory pathogen that significantly threatens global health by causing seasonal epidemics and occasional, unpredictable pandemics. To identify new compounds with therapeutic potential against IAV, we designed and synthesized a series of 4′‐morpholinodiazenyl chalcones using the molecular hybridization method, performed a high‐content screen against IAV, and found that (E)‐1‐{4‐[(E)‐morpholinodiazenyl]phenyl}‐3‐(3,4,5‐trimethoxyphenyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one (MC‐22) completely neutralized IAV infection. While MC‐22 allowed IAV to successfully internalize into the cell and fuse at the acidic late endosomes, it prevented viral capsid uncoating and genome release. Since IAV majorly utilizes clathrin‐mediated endocytosis (CME) for cellular entry, we examined whether MC‐22 had any effect on CME, using nonviral cargoes that enter cells via clathrin‐dependent or ‐independent pathways. Although MC‐22 showed no effect on the uptake of choleratoxin B, a cargo that enters cells majorly via the clathrin‐independent pathway, it significantly attenuated the clathrin‐dependent internalization of both epidermal growth factor and transferrin. Cell biological analyses revealed a marked increase in the size of early endosomes upon MC‐22 treatment, indicating an endosomal trafficking/maturation defect. This study reports the identification of MC‐22 as a novel CME‐targeting, highly potent IAV entry inhibitor, which is expected to neutralize a broad spectrum of viruses that enter the host cells via CME.
I'm the same, I'm the same, I'm trying to change: Investigating the role of human information behavior in view change
Authors: McKay Dana , Makri Stephann , Gutierrez‐Lopez Marisela , Porlezza Colin , Macfarlane Andrew , Cooper Glenda , Missaoui Sondess
Published: March 2024

Information is powerful; it can influence peoples' views and, in turn, their behavior. Much recent research and discussion on the role information plays in view change has focused on filter bubbles, echo chambers and misinformation and how they might influence what people think and how they act. However, no prior work has focused specifically on understanding the human information behavior (HIB) that drives and facilitates view change. We report findings from interviews with 18 people who recently changed views on issues they considered important. We found a tight symbiotic relationship between HIB and view change; passive information encountering sparked change, often spurring follow‐up active seeking and verification which progressed the change to a “point of no return,” supported making the change and reinforced the decision to change. When shared, information that contributed to the change sometimes sparked changes in others (as did expressing or debating the change), serving as an information encounter that perpetuated a cycle of HIB and view change. This understanding of the integral role of HIB in view change can inform policy and systems design to promote view change autonomy and a broader research agenda of understanding HIB to support democratic principles and values.
Investigating implicit emotion processing in autism spectrum disorder across age groups: A cross‐modal emotional priming study
Authors: Leung Florence Y. N. , Stojanovik Vesna , Jiang Cunmei , Liu Fang
Published: March 2024

Cumulating evidence suggests that atypical emotion processing in autism may generalize across different stimulus domains. However, this evidence comes from studies examining explicit emotion recognition. It remains unclear whether domain‐general atypicality also applies to implicit emotion processing in autism and its implication for real‐world social communication. To investigate this, we employed a novel cross‐modal emotional priming task to assess implicit emotion processing of spoken/sung words (primes) through their influence on subsequent emotional judgment of faces/face‐like objects (targets). We assessed whether implicit emotional priming differed between 38 autistic and 38 neurotypical individuals across age groups as a function of prime and target type. Results indicated no overall group differences across age groups, prime types, and target types. However, differential, domain‐specific developmental patterns emerged for the autism and neurotypical groups. For neurotypical individuals, speech but not song primed the emotional judgment of faces across ages. This speech‐orienting tendency was not observed across ages in the autism group, as priming of speech on faces was not seen in autistic adults. These results outline the importance of the delicate weighting between speech‐ versus song‐orientation in implicit emotion processing throughout development, providing more nuanced insights into the emotion processing profile of autistic individuals.
Child behavior problems and parental psychological distress in Chinese families of children with autism: The putative moderating role of parental social support and cultural values
Authors: Liu Wenyuan , Thompson Paul A. , Gray Kylie M. , Hastings Richard P.
Published: March 2024

The wellbeing of parents of children with autism residing in mainland China remains understudied. We aimed to examine whether and how parental perceived social support, individualism, and collectivism acted together to moderate the relationships between child behavior problems and parental psychological distress in Chinese parents of children with autism. With convenience and snowball sampling, data on 268 primary caregiver parents of children with autism were collected from an online cross‐sectional survey. Linear regression analysis indicated that child behavior problems were significantly associated with increased psychological distress in Chinese parents of children with autism. There was no evidence to support the stress‐buffering model of social support in moderation analysis of the association between child behavior problems and parental psychological distress. Nonetheless, increased social support was associated with lower levels of parental psychological distress. Moderated moderation analyses did not support a role for individualism or collectivism as a moderator of the putative buffering role of social support. However, there was evidence that parental individualism was associated with increased parental psychological distress. Our findings highlight that child behavior problems are a robust correlate of parental psychological distress, and parental social support may act as a compensatory factor promoting less psychological distress rather than having a protective role. The role of social support and cultural values in the wellbeing of parents of children with autism in China requires additional exploration, including longitudinal research designs.
Delayed pipe replacement halves environmental impacts but quadruples water loss
Authors: Clayton Jonathan G. , Mejía‐Marchena Ricardo L. , Jiang Daqian , Terry Leigh G.
Published: March 2024

Scheduling pipe replacement is critical for water distribution systems (WDSs) when managing finances and water loss. WDS replacements are often delayed due to high immediate costs without considering long‐term environmental consequences. This study is the first to examine a real‐world WDS using a novel workflow transferrable to other WDSs that integrates GIS, hydraulic modeling, breakage prediction, and life cycle analysis to evaluate environmental impacts and water loss of five replacement schedules (25‐, 50‐, 75‐, 100‐, 150‐year intervals). Environmental impacts were reduced by half when replacement interval changed from 25 year to 150 years, yet volume of water leaked from the system quadrupled. Benefits plateaued beyond 50–75‐year replacement while water loss steadily increased. Lowering water loss through break management enabled one‐sixth pipe replacement without exceeding original leakage at 25‐year replacement. Results were robust to uncertainty parameters and assert the importance of equilibrating environmental impacts and water loss when designing pipe replacement frequency.
Lipases: market study and potential applications of immobilized derivatives
Authors: Bullo Giovanna Totti , Marasca Nicole , Almeida Francisco Lucas Chaves , Forte Marcus Bruno Soares
Published: March 2024

The enzyme market is growing constantly, and lipases, in their free and immobilized forms, constitute an important part of this market. This study aimed to analyze and discuss current market scenarios using data from the literature, focusing on lipases and the feasibility of their use in the immobilized form. It also compares the cost of biodiesel production using two commercial lipases: Eversa Transform 2.0 (free lipase) and Novozyme 435 (immobilized lipase). The results show that the European and North American enzyme markets are the most prominent worldwide, with Denmark and the USA as the major exporters and importers, respectively. Lipases can be used in a wide variety of fields, and immobilization brings many advantages to this enzyme class. Finally, we show the use of immobilized enzymes and lipases in biorefinery and food industries and carry out a comparative cost analysis to produce biodiesel using a free and immobilized lipase. We concluded that the enzyme market, in which lipases play an important role, is extensive, and that immobilized lipases seem to be excellent biocatalysts with feasible costs for industrial applications.