bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco‐friendly recycled glass fiber and bamboo fiber reinforced epoxy‐SiO2 polymer hybrid composite: Development and mechanical characterization
Authors: Ahirwar Deepa , Purohit Rajesh , Dixit Savita
Published: February 2024

In the pursuit of sustainable and high‐performance materials, this study presents a groundbreaking approach to enhance the mechanical properties of glass fiber‐reinforced polymer composites. Railway waste provides an unexpected source of recycled glass fibers (RGFs), which, when combined with bamboo fibers (BFs) and nano SiO2 in a resilient epoxy matrix, unleashes a transformative synergy. The epoxy‐SiO2 matrix ratio was kept constant, that is,70% by weight while varying the ratio of RGF and BFs weight. The experimental results demonstrated notable improvements in mechanical properties. Specifically, a 36.92% increase in tensile strength was observed with an RGF and BF ratio of 20:10. Flexural strength exhibited a substantial enhancement of 44.67%, and impact strength increased by 31.28% at a ratio of 15:15. The composite achieved a remarkable 42.64% improvement in hardness, while attaining the lowest density value of 0.862 at a ratio of 25:05.Water absorption tests, conducted in both distilled and saline water, provided insights into the material's resistance to environmental conditions. The morphological and dispersion behaviors of the prepared composites were analyzed using advanced characterization techniques, including field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) to study the orientation, shape, and size of fibers and particles, bonding between the fibers and matrix, defects, voids, etc. Combined with energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), FESEM allows for elemental analysis, helping to identify and quantify the chemical composition of different phases within the polymer composite. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis to know the compositions of developed composites. The findings from this study underscore the efficacy of incorporating recycled materials.

Highlights

Extraction and reusing GF to develop a new hybrid composite.

BF and RGF in epoxy‐SiO2 matrix present high mechanical property composite.

Density and water absorption tests were done to see the swelling properties.

Characterization technique employed to see the interphase of composites developed.
Study on the processes and warpage of double‐injection‐molded parts containing PP recycled materials
Authors: Li Jiquan , Wang Zhencun , Xie Jun , Jiang Shaofei , Peng Xiang , Lu Chunfu
Published: February 2024

Double‐injection molding involves the use of two injection units, A and B, which can combine two different plastics into one part in a single injection molding process. Double‐injection molding can promote the recycling of plastic waste as well as improve the performance and dull appearance of plastic products made from recycled materials. However, the warpage of parts is a significant challenge in double‐injection molding. Warpage is significantly affected by the properties of the recycled material and injection molding process. In this study, the relationship between the warpage of double‐injection‐molded parts using raw and recycled materials was studied through uniform design experiments. To investigate the processes and warpage, the material was recycled several times, and its properties were tested. A regression model was established to describe the quantitative relationship between the important parameters and warpage. The number‐average molecular weight and weight‐average molecular weight exhibited the largest decrease after the first recycling cycle with a 21.11% and 41.11% decrease, respectively. The melting temperature decreased from 164.61 to 159.35°C, and the crystallinity did not change significantly. The processing parameters varied with the change in the properties of PP recycled materials, with the melt temperature decreased from 225 to 210°C. In addition, the number of recycling cycles and holding time for B were the most important factors influencing the warpage of double‐injection‐molded parts, followed by holding time for A and melt temperature for A. Warpage can be reduced by increasing holding times B and A. The experimental results provide important data for reducing the warpage of double‐injection‐molded parts with recycled materials.

Highlights

Double‐injection‐molded parts containing recycled materials were prepared.

Recycling enhanced the filling capacity of polypropylene.

The regression model of warpage with variables was established.

Warpage can be improved by adjusting processes and materials.
Mechanical and gas permeability properties of poly(L‐lactic acid)–based films and their application in fresh produce preservation—Review
Authors: Yun Xueyan , Liu Linze , Hu Jian , Sun Tao , Zhang Jiatao , Dong Tungalag
Published: February 2024

Plastics have remained the best choice for fruit and vegetable packaging due to their exceptional transparency, flexibility, optional good barrier and cost‐effectiveness. However, a large number of plastics end up in the environment after serving their intended purpose and persist there for centuries. Since worldwide attention to environmental issues has become an irreversible historical trend, cost‐effective renewable biodegradable packaging material is highly desirable for the packaging industry to satisfy both industrial demands as well as consumer expectations. Poly (L‐lactic acid) (PLLA), a renewable biodegradable polymer derived from biomass, has been widely studied as a very attractive polymer for food packaging applications. However, its brittle nature and medium CO2/O2 permeability are not friendly for its utilisation in the aspect of fresh agricultural products packaging. In such a context, great efforts have been devoted to improvements in the mechanical and permeability of PLLA to meet the requirements of food packaging. The main purpose of the review is to summarise the mechanical and permeability properties of composite films developed by the incorporation of toughness reinforcing agents into the PLLA matrix. The elongation at break of PLA can be increased up to 250 times by modification, and the CO2 permeability of PLA can be increased by 2–3 times by modification. We also elaborate on studies of the preservation effect of PLLA composite films on fresh fruits and vegetables.
Duration of protective immunity following COVID‐19 vaccination of individuals with underlying health conditions: A rapid review
Authors: Walsh Kieran A. , O’Donnell Helen , O’Loughlin Mark , Eames Heather , Jiang Jingjing , O’Brien Katie M. , Broderick Natasha , O’Brien Kirsty K. , Carrigan Marie , Comber Laura , Cardwell Karen , Quigley Joan , Smith Susan M. , Ó Murchú Éamon , Butler Karina , Corcoran Brenda , Connolly Kevin , Harrington Patricia , Ryan Máirín , O'Neill Michelle
Published: February 2024

The World Health Organization has stated that the primary goal of immunisation in the COVID‐19 pandemic remains to protect against hospitalisation, severe disease and death. Vaccination is particularly important for those with underlying health conditions given the high risk of severe disease in this population. The aim of this review was to examine the change in efficacy and effectiveness of COVID‐19 vaccination over time in individuals with underlying conditions. A rapid review was undertaken in Cochrane, Embase, Medline, Europe PMC, MedRxiv and Google Scholar from 01/01/2020 to 27/10/2021. A total of 14 unique studies (3 randomised controlled trials and 11 observational studies) were included. Overall, there was limited and inconsistent evidence regarding vaccine efficacy and effectiveness in those with underlying health conditions. However, the evidence suggests potentially faster waning of vaccine effectiveness against infection, severe disease and death in individuals with underlying conditions, particularly for older adults with these conditions, and in those who are immunocompromised. Protection in younger age groups with underlying conditions who are not immunocompromised, may be largely comparable to that observed in the general population, though this is uncertain. Given the significant burden of infection on individuals with underlying conditions, any small decrease in protection is likely to have a substantial impact in this population. Hence, the evidence supports a policy of providing additional doses to those who are immunocompromised, and boosters to all those with underlying health conditions. Further research is required to understand the impact of new variants on vaccine efficacy/effectiveness in this population.
Studies on the synthesis of sugar chalcone derivatives for protein binding
Authors: Hemamalini Arasappan , Thirunarayanan Ayyavu , Karthikeyan Subramani
Published: February 2024

Simple sugar chalcone derivatives are synthesized by the Aldol condensation of various β‐C‐glycosidic ketones with aromatic aldehydes under microwave condition. Zn‐mediated reduction of sugar‐chalcone derivatives results in the formation of the corresponding reduced product. The so obtained products are characterized using NMR (1H, 13C), mass spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The interaction of synthesized sugar chalcone derivatives and their reduced products with Bouvine Serum Albumin studied using computational studies. The studies divulge that the Pyrene based sugar‐chalcone derivatives exhibits an excellent binding with BSA protein.
In Situ Growth of Silver Nanoparticles on Graphene Oxide Towards Electrochemical Nitrite Detection
Authors: Kumar Narvdeshwar , Maurya Angesh Kumar , Bind Anuj Kumar , Sonkar Piyush Kumar
Published: February 2024

Nitrite is a significant environmental pollutant present in industrial waste water, food additives, detergents, and physiological systems. Therefore, an effective electrochemical sensor is essential for nitrite determination. Accordingly in this work, graphene oxide (GO) is functionalized with 3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (GO‐APTMS) and 3‐mercaptopropyltrimehtoxysilane (GO‐MPTS). Further, Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were grown on GO‐MPTS (GO‐MPTS/AgNPs) and GO‐APTMS (GO‐APTMS/AgNPs). GO‐APTMS/AgNPs and GO‐MPTS/AgNPs are characterized by different spectroscopic and microscopic techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), UV‐vis and powder X‐ray diffraction(p‐XRD), transmission electron microscopy(TEM) with selected area electron diffraction (SAED) and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDAX). The nanocomposites, GO‐APTMS/AgNPs and GO‐MPTS/AgNPs are immobilized on glassy carbon (GC) electrode and abbreviated as GC/GO‐APTMS/AgNPs and GC/GO‐MPTS/AgNPs, respectively. It exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of NO2−. It shows the broad calibration range from 0.1 μM to 1 mM. The detection limit for NO2− is 90 nM and 80 nM for GC/GO‐APTMS/AgNPs and GC/GO‐MPTS/AgNPs, respectively. GC/GO‐APTMS/AgNPs and GC/GO‐MPTS/AgNPs exhibit sensitivity of 0.26 μA μM−1cm−2 and 0.46 μA μM−1 cm−2, respectively for NO2− determination. The modified electrode, GC/GO‐APTMS/AgNPs and GC/GO‐MPTS/AgNPs exhibit a wide calibration range, low detection limit, high sensitivity, selectivity, and stability for NO2− determination. Real sample analysis of tomato ketchup was performed at GC/GO‐APTMS/AgNPs and GC/GO‐MPTS/AgNPs with reliable recovery.
Synthesis and Anticancer Evaluation of Lawsone bound triazoles
Authors: Allam Vijaykumar , Jeedi Suman , Allam Vinaykumar , Nerella Srinivas , Gavaji Brahmeshwari
Published: February 2024

Herein we report a new series of small triazole hybrid molecules from a naturally occurring orange pigment called lawsone using click protocol. Further, the synthesized compounds were screened for their potent anticancer activity against human tumor cell lines i. e., HeLa, A‐549, HepG2 and HEK‐293. Among the synthesized compounds, 5 d, 5 h and 5 i (5 h being the most potent among these compounds) have manifested significant anticancer activity by triggering apoptosis almost similar to that of standard drug cisplatin. Molecular docking studies (MDS) of 5 h against EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) protein revealed that there were significant interactions between the drug and receptor and thus 5 h is able to inhibit the EGFR action. The free energies calculated from MDS were in good agreement with the observed IC 50 values. Additionally, the ADMET calculations for Druglikeness of active compound (5 h) yielded favourable results.
Pn@MF@SiO2 Double‐Shelled Phase Change Microcapsules with High Latent Heat and Low Leakage Rate
Authors: Li Yujiao , Cai Tianyu , Li Yongsheng , Jiang Zhuoni , He Fangfang , Chen Zhengguo , Ali Hafiz Muhammad , Shehzad Nadia , Waqas Adeel , Yang Wenbin
Published: February 2024

Microencapsulation of paraffin with melamine formaldehyde shell (Pn@MF) shows the drawbacks of low thermal conductivity. Hence, we constructed SiO2 shells on Pn@MF phase change microcapsules by interfacial polycondensation to obtain Pn@MF@SiO2 double‐shelled microcapsules. The effect of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) contents on the performance of Pn@MF@SiO2 was discussed in detail. As the TEOS contents increased, the thermal conductivity of Pn@MF@SiO2 gradually increased, reaching up to 0.376 W m−1 K−1. The Pn@MF@SiO2 have exhibited superior leakage‐proof properties and thermal reliability through double‐shelled protection, and the highest reduction in leakage rate reached 45.06 % compared to Pn@MF microcapsules. The Pn@MF@SiO2‐3 with the lowest enthalpy still exhibit a latent heat storage capacity of more than 176 J/g, which displayed outstanding latent heat storage/release capability and good anti‐permeable property.
Structure and properties of ZnO‐organobentonite‐filled natural rubber composites
Authors: Pankam Prakaidao , Sae‐Oui Pongdhorn , Khaorapapong Nithima , Boonchiangma Suthasinee , Siriwong Chomsri
Published: February 2024

This study involved the preparation of composites consisting of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles deposited within the structure of organophilic bentonite. These composites were subsequently utilized as fillers in natural rubber (NR). The organobentonites were initially prepared via a cation exchange reaction using alkylammonium ions with different chain lengths (C8N−C18N) and later deposited by ZnO nanoparticles. The identification of the ZnO‐organobentonites was conducted using various techniques, including powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV‐Vis spectroscopy, etc. The findings demonstrate the successful deposition of ZnO nanoparticles within the organobentonite's structure. The basal space between the silicate layers increased with the increasing chain length of alkylammonium ions. When added to NR, the ZnO‐organoclays mutually acted as a cure activator and filler. As expected, the ZnO‐organoclay modified by octadecylammonium ions (C18N) showed the greatest reinforcement due to its highest capability to enlarge the basal space between the silicate layers.
Na₂ – Eosin Y – Photocatalyzed Cross Dehydrogenative C−S Coupling of Arylthiols with Indole Derivatives
Authors: Trinadh Ballanki , Kadamannil Binduja , Viswambharan Baby
Published: February 2024

Herein, we have accomplished a simple visible light mediated protocol for the cross dehydrogenative coupling of arylthiols with indoles in excellent yields. Eosin Y disodium salt is used as a photocatalyst for generating the arylsulfur radical under blue light irradiation as confirmed by the quenching, radical scavenging and EPR studies. Among the synthesized arylthioindoles, 5‐bromo‐3‐((4‐methoxyphenyl)thio)‐1H‐indole possess antibacterial properties. These 3‐arylthioindoles were further transformed into indolyl‐3‐arylsulfones and indolyl‐3‐arylsulfoxides, a potent class of non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type I.
Design of a Nanodelivery System with High Loading Efficiency by Improving π‐π Interactions with Drugs
Authors: Gan Lu , Li Yuxuan , Xia Yongzhi , Yang Jing , Chen Yan
Published: February 2024

π‐π interactions, serving as a pivotal driving force, hold enduring significance in the realm of drug delivery system development, primarily due to the prevalence of aromatic moieties in a substantial number of clinically relevant pharmaceutical compounds. Herein, we constructed a novel carbon nitride compound called PTCNx, featuring a large π‐conjugated skeleton, and employed it as a carrier for delivering aromatic clinical drugs for the first time. We conducted sequence characterization of their chemical structure, optical properties, and morphology, along with extensive research to analyze their significant enhancement in drug loading capacity. Of particular note was the exceptional loading efficiency of Doxorubicin (DOX) under alkaline conditions, achieving an unexpected 99 % efficacy, significantly surpassing the capabilities of traditional carbon nitrides with limited π‐conjugated systems. Cell tests illustrated that PTCN550 carrier exhibited favorable biocompatibility and low toxicity for normal and tumor cells, showing its potential as a drug carrier. However, PTCN550‐DOX complex effectively inhibited both A549 and CNE‐2Z tumor cells. And it demonstrated more effective anti‐tumor activity for CNE‐2Z than for A549 cells. This study marks a significant milestone, representing the inaugural endeavor to elucidate the improvement in loading capacity through the strategic extension of the π‐conjugated system design paradigm.
A Theoretical Investigation on the Properties of Charge Transport of Hexaazatrinaphthylene Derivatives
Authors: B Jothi. , Arputharaj A. David Stephen , K Selvaraju. , S Lara Priyadharshini. , Al‐Sehemi Abdullah G
Published: February 2024

A hexaazatrinaphthylene [HAT] is a well‐known halogenated perylene diimide compound recognized for photochemical stability, high electron affinity, easy functionalization, and high conductivity. Based on density functional theory, optoelectronic and charge transport properties of HAT derivatives with electron‐donating, electron‐withdrawing, and push‐pull substituents, were investigated. The impact of substituting electron‐withdrawing groups (EWG), electron‐donating groups (EDG), and push‐pull substituents on various aspects, including molecular structure, frontier molecular orbitals, ionization energy, electron affinity, reorganization energy, crystal packing, and charge carrier mobility, is investigated. A crystal structure simulation method is employed to optimize potential arrangements of crystal packing for the molecules under examination. The presence of EWG, EDG, and push‐pull substitutions significantly affects the energy and distribution of electron density in the frontier molecular orbitals, leading to alterations in the absorption spectrum and charge transport properties. When adding various substituents to the core system, the different crystal packing motifs and varied intermolecular interactions of the examined molecules result in noticeably different transfer integrals. Due to higher hole reorganization energy and weak HOMO orbital overlapping, HAT derivative molecules exhibit better electron mobility. Among the studied molecules, HAT‐F and HAT‐F‐OCH3 molecules demonstrate better electron mobility with values of 0.49 and 2.36 cm2 V−1 s−1, respectively, and established the n‐channel characteristics.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activities of some Ag(I) Complexes Involving N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Ligands
Authors: Mageed Ahmed Hassoon , Hadi Israa Sami
Published: February 2024

A new study focused on the synthesis of silver(I)‐N‐heterocyclic carbene complexes. The mono‐Ag(I)‐NHC complexes were successfully synthesized in high yield using a direct complexation method, which involved an excess of Ag2O and imidazolium salts (R= butyl, methylacetate) in dichloromethane. The bis‐Ag(I)‐NHC complexes, on the other hand, were synthesized using a 1 : 2 ratio of Ag2O and imidazolium salts. The ligands and resulting complexes were thoroughly characterized using analytical techniques such as FT‐IR, NMR spectroscopy, LC–MS and elemental analysis. Subsequently, the synthesized complexes were tested against MCF7 breast cancer cells. The results of the study highlighted the remarkable anticancer potential exhibited by the Ag(I)‐NHC complexes against breast cancer cells. Interestingly, it was observed that the mono Ag(I) NHC complexes demonstrated greater potency, with IC50 values ranging from 5 to 13.5 μg/mL, when compared to their bis‐Ag(I)‐NHC counterparts.
Efficient Electron Transfer across Strontium Titanate Decorated Graphene Oxide for High‐Performance Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells and Photocatalytic Degradation of Dye and Antibiotic
Authors: Aravinthkumar K. , Raja Mohan C.
Published: February 2024

Understanding synergistic interface features is a crucial step towards adjustable and controllable interfaces for photocatalytic and photovoltaic devices. In this work, a novel layer‐structured rGO hybrid with SrTiO3 (STO/rGO) based binary composite has developed via hydrothermal method. The highly stable STO/rGO is used to construct a dual‐functional platform for dye, antibiotic degradation and DSSC. The photocatalytic activities of STO/rGO composites were examined using Methylene Blue (MB) and Tetracycline (TC) degradation in an aqueous solution under white light irradiation. The catalyst containing STG‐3 exhibited outstanding photocatalytic degradation efficiency of 93.06 % and 95.23 % toward MB and TC, respectively. In addition, the hybrid composites‐based photoanode had the most outstanding efficiency of 3.74 % with an increase in JSC. The performance is far better than pristine STO. The improved efficiency is ascribed to the strong interconnectivity, excellent crystallinity, higher surface area and high porosity, which results in reduced interfacial charge recombination loss, outstanding dye adsorption and better electron transport. Furthermore, a predicted mechanism is provided to explain the higher performance of STO/rGO hybrid composites.
Comparative Analysis of PEG‐Free and PEG‐Based Self‐Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems for Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of Therapeutic (Poly) Peptides
Authors: Haddadzadegan Soheil , To Dennis , Matteo Jörgensen Arne , Wibel Richard , Laffleur Flavia , Bernkop‐Schnürch Andreas
Published: February 2024

This study aims to compare the potential of Polyethylene glycol (PEG‐free and PEG‐based self‐emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) for the oral administration of insulin glargine (IG). Hydrophobic ion pairs (HIPs) of IG are formed using various counterions. HIPs are assessed for log P octanol/water and dissociation behavior. They are incorporated into SEDDS based on polyglycerol (PG) and zwitterionic surfactant (ZW) using response surface methodology and compared to conventional PEG‐SEDDS in size, stability, and log D SEDDS/release medium. Oral IG bioavailability in PG/ZW‐SEDDS and PEG‐SEDDS is evaluated in rats. Among the various counterions studied, IG‐BIS (bis(isotridecyl)sulfosuccinate) HIPs demonstrated the highest log P and an improved dissociation profile. PG/ZW‐SEDDS and PEG‐SEDDS have similar ≈40 nm sizes and are stable over 24 h. Both formulations have log D > 4 in water and >2 in 50 mM phosphate buffer pH 6.8. PG/ZW‐SEDDS yielded an oral bioavailability of 2.13 ± 0.66% for IG, while the employment of PEG‐SEDDS resulted in an oral bioavailability of 1.15 ± 0.35%. This study highlights the prospective utilization of PEG‐free SEDDS involving the concurrent application of PG and ZW surfactants, an alternative to conventional PEG surfactants, for improved oral therapeutic (poly) peptide delivery.
Bioinspired Synaptic Branched Network within Quasi‐Solid Polymer Electrolyte for High‐Performance Microsupercapacitors
Authors: Lee Dawoon , Yang Mino , Choi U. Hyeok , Kim Jaekyun
Published: February 2024

The branched network‐driven ion solvating quasi‐solid polymer electrolytes (QSPEs) are prepared via one‐step photochemical reaction. A poly(ethylene glycol diacrylate) (PEGDA) is combined with an ion‐conducting solvate ionic liquid (SIL), where tetraglyme (TEGDME), which acts like interneuron in the human brain and creates branching network points, is mixed with EMIM‐NTf2and Li‐NTf2. The QSPE exhibits a unique gyrified morphology, inspired by the cortical surface of human brain, and features well‐refined nano‐scale ion channels. This human‐mimicking method offers excellent ion transport capabilities through a synaptic branched network with high ionic conductivity (σDC≈ 1.8 mS cm−1at 298 K), high dielectric constant (εs≈ 125 at 298 K), and strong ion solvation ability, in addition to superior mechanical flexibility. Furthermore, the interdigitated microsupercapacitors (MSCs) based on the QSPE present excellent electrochemical performance of high energy (E  =  5.37 µWh cm−2) and power density (P  =  2.2 mW cm−2), long‐term cycle stability (≈94% retention after 48 000 cycles), and mechanical stability (>94% retention after continuous bending and compressing deformation). Moreover, these MSC devices have flame‐retarding properties and operate effectively in air and water across a wide temperature range (275 to 370 K), offering a promising foundation for high‐performance, stable next‐generation all‐solid‐state energy storage devices.
Controlling Nucleation and Crystallization of CsPbI3 Perovskites for Efficient Inverted Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Man , Mo Kangwei , Zhu Xueliang , Liu Yong , Yan Ning , Wang Zhiping
Published: February 2024

The unfavorable morphology and high crystallization temperature (Tc) of inorganic perovskites pose a significant challenge to their widespread application in photovoltaics. In this study, an effective approach is proposed to enhance the morphology of cesium lead triiodide (CsPbI3) while lowering its Tc. By introducing dimethylammonium acetate into the perovskite precursor solution, a rapid nucleation stage is facilitated, and significantly enhances the crystal growth of the intermediate phase at low annealing temperatures, followed by a slow crystal growth stage at higher annealing temperatures. This results in a uniform and dense morphology in CsPbI3 perovskite films with enhanced crystallinity, simultaneously reducing the Tc from 200 to 150 °C. Applying this approach in positive‐intrinsic‐negative (p‐i‐n) inverted cells yields a high power conversion efficiency of 19.23%. Importantly, these cells exhibit significantly enhanced stability, even under stress at 85 °C.
Aerobically Autoxidized Self‐Charge Concept Derived from Synergistic Pyrrolic Nitrogen and Catechol Configurations in N, O Co‐Doped Carbon Cathode Material
Authors: Wang Junyan , Zhang Bosen , Zhang Jiamin , Xing Hanyu , Shi Yuning , Tian Kesong , Guo Wanchun , Xu Junjie , Liu Shuhu , Li Xueai , Xie Haijiao , Wang Haiyan
Published: February 2024

Aerobically autoxidized self‐charging concept has drawn significant attraction due to its promising chemical charge features without external power supply. Particularly, heteroatom‐doped carbon materials with abundant oxidizable sites and good conductivity are expected to be ideal cathode materials. However, there is no well‐defined aerobically autoxidized self‐charging concept based on heteroatom‐doped carbon materials, significantly hindering the design of related carbon cathodes. An aerobically autoxidized self‐chargeable concept derived from synergistic effect of pyrrolic nitrogen and catechol configuration in carbon cathode using model single pyrrolic nitrogen and oxygen (N‐5, O) co‐doped carbon and O‐enriched carbon is proposed. First, self‐charging of N‐5, O co‐doped carbon cathode can be achieved by aerobic oxidation of pyrrolic nitrogen and catechol to oxidized pyrrolic nitrogen and ortho‐quinone configurations, respectively. Second, introducing a single pyrrolic nitrogen configuration enhanced acidic wettability of N‐5, O co‐doped carbon facilitating air self‐charge/galvanic discharge involving proton removal/introduction. Third, synergistic effect of pyrrolic nitrogen and hydroxyl species with the strong electron‐donating ability to conjugated carbon‐based backbone endows N‐5, O co‐doped carbon with a higher highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy level more susceptible to oxidation charging. The assembled Cu/Carbon batteries can drive a timer after every air‐charging run. This promising aerobically autoxidized self‐charging concept can inspire exploring high‐efficiency self‐charging devices.
Regulating Grafting Density to Realize High‐Areal‐Capacity Silicon Submicroparticle Anodes Under Ultralow Binder Content
Authors: Li Zeheng , Qiu Juncheng , Tang Weiting , Wan Zhengwei , Wu Zhuoying , Lin Zhen , Lai Guoyong , Wei Xiujuan , Jin Chengbin , Yan Lijing , Wu Shuxing , Lin Zhan
Published: February 2024

Grafted biopolymer binders are demonstrated to improve the processability and cycling stability of the silicon (Si) nanoparticle anodes. However, there is little systematical exploration regarding the relationship between grafting density and performance of grafted binder for Si anodes, especially when Si particles exceed the critical breaking size. Herein, a series of guar gum grafted polyacrylamide (GP) binders with different grafting densities are designed and prepared to determine the optimal grafting density for maximizing the electrochemical performance of Si submicroparticle (SiSMP) anodes. Among various GP binders, GP5 with recommended grafting density demonstrates the strongest adhesion strength, best mechanical properties, and highest intrinsic ionic conductivity. These characteristics enable the SiSMP electrodes to sustain the electrode integrity and accelerate lithium‐ion transport kinetics during cycling, resulting in high capacity and stable cyclability. The superior role of GP5 binder in enabling robust structure and stable interface of SiSMP electrodes is revealed through the PeakForce atomic force microscopy and in situ differential electrochemical mass spectrometry. Furthermore, the stable cyclabilities of high‐loading SiSMP@GP5 electrode with ultralow GP5 content (1 wt%) at high areal capacity as well as the good cyclability of Ah‐level LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2/SiSMP@GP5 pouch cell strongly confirms the practical viability of the GP5 binder.
Na2.5Cr0.5Zr0.5Cl6: A New Halide‐Based Fast Sodium‐Ion Conductor
Authors: Wang Likuo , Song Zhenyou , Lou Xiaobing , Chen Yuwei , Wang Tengrui , Wang Zhongqiang , Chen Huaican , Yin Wen , Avdeev Maxim , Kan Wang Hay , Hu Bingwen , Luo Wei
Published: February 2024

All‐solid‐state batteries employing solid electrolytes (SEs) have received widespread attention due to their high safety. Recently, lithium halides are intensively investigated as promising SEs while their sodium counterparts are less studied. Herein, a new sodium‐ion conductor with a chemical formula of Na2.5Cr0.5Zr0.5Cl6 is reported, which exhibits high room temperature ionic conductivity of 0.1 mS cm−1 with low migration energy barrier of ≈0.41 eV. Na2.5Cr0.5Zr0.5Cl6 has a Fm‐3m structure with 41.67 mol.% of cationic vacancies owing to the occupation of Cr (8.33 mol.%) and Zr (8.33 mol.%) ions at Na sites. Supercell calculations show that the lowest columbic energy configuration has Cr/Zr/V (where V is the vacancy) clusters in the structure. Nonetheless, the clusters have mixed effects on the sodium ion conduction pathway, based on the Bond Valence Energy Landscape calculation. A global 3D Na‐ion transport percolation network can be revealed in the lowest energy supercell. Effective pathways are connected through the NaCl6 and VCl6 nodes. Besides, Raman spectroscopy and 23Na solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy further prove the tunable structure of the SEs with different Cr to Zr ratios. The optimization between the concentration of Na+ and vacancies is crucial to create an improved network of Na+ diffusion channels.
Waste‐Valorized Nanowebs for Crystal Violet Removal from Water
Authors: Maqbool Qaisar , Cavallini Isabella , Lasemi Niusha , Sabbatini Simona , Tittarelli Francesca , Rupprechter Günther
Published: February 2024

Lightweight, metal‐free, sustainable, and reusable adsorbent materials are of paramount significance in addressing the challenges of wastewater treatment. Accordingly, semi‐crystalline nanocellulose (NC) is extracted from tissue paper waste and used to modify polyacrylonitrile (PAN) to produce electrospun nanowebs with strand diameters from ≈180–300 nm. The incorporation of NC into PAN is confirmed by infrared and Raman spectroscopy and X‐Ray diffraction. When tested for crystal violet (CV) adsorption, NC‐modified PAN (20% NC@PAN) exhibits the highest CV removal capacity, achieving 91–94% removal over three cycles each, demonstrating exceptional recyclability. In contrast, unmodified PAN significantly decreases in CV adsorption capacity (from 59% to 48% in the third cycle), possibly due to an increased (≈36%) nanofiber diameter. The adsorption kinetics, exhibiting pseudo‐second order, interparticle (in between nanofibers) diffusion, and Elovich kinetic models emphasize the role of multilayer CV adsorption through reversible chemical interactions. Confocal micro‐Raman spectroscopy unveils a multifaceted CV adsorption mechanism, suggesting both surface and multilayer diffusion, with NC‐enhancing interactions. These findings demonstrate the potential of NC‐modified PAN nanowebs as effective and environmentally sustainable adsorbents for removing CV from aqueous solutions, suggesting promising practical applications.
Stable 1T‐MoS2 by Facile Phase Transition Synthesis for Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Dharman Ranjith Kumar , Im Hyeonae , Kabiraz Mrinal Kanti , Kim Jeonghyeon , Shejale Kiran P , Choi Sang‐Il , Han Jeong Woo , Kim Sung Yeol
Published: February 2024

The 1T phase of MoS2 exhibits much higher electrocatalytic activity and better stability than the 2H phase. However, the harsh conditions of 1T phase synthesis remain a significant challenge for various extensions and applications of MoS2. In this work, a simple hydrothermal‐based synthesis method for the phase transition of MoS2 is being developed. For this, the NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti) (Ti MOF) is successfully utilized to induce the phase transition of MoS2 from 2H to 1T, achieving a high conversion ratio of ≈78.3%. The optimum phase‐induced MoS2/Ti MOF heterostructure demonstrates enhanced oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance, showing an overpotential of 290 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations are demonstrating the benefits of this phase transition, determining the electronic properties and OER performance of MoS2.
Ultrathin H‐MXM as An “Ion Freeway” for High‐Performance Osmotic Energy Conversion
Authors: Dong Qizheng , Liu Jun , Wang Yuting , He Jianwei , Zhai Jin , Fan Xia
Published: February 2024

Nanofluidic membranes are currently being explored as potential candidates for osmotic energy harvesting. However, the development of high‐performance nanofluidic membranes remains a challenge. In this study, the ultrathin MXene membrane (H‐MXM) is prepared by ultrathin slicing and realize the ion horizontal transportation. The H‐MXM membrane, with a thickness of only 3 µm and straight subnanometer channels, exhibits ultrafast ion transport capabilities resembling an “ion freeway”. By mixing artificial seawater and river water, a power output of 93.6 W m−2 is obtained. Just as cell membranes have an ultrathin thickness that allows for excellent penetration, this straight nanofluidic membrane also possesses an ultrathin structure. This unique feature helps to shorten the ion transport path, leading to an increased ion transport rate and improveS performance in osmotic energy conversion.
Effect of Nitrogen‐Added Shielding Gas on Microstructure Evolution of Welded Joints by Gas Tungsten Arc Welding Process in Duplex Stainless Steel 2205
Authors: Rodriguez‐Vargas Bryan Ramiro , Stornelli Giulia , Miranda Pérez Argelia Fabiola , Di Schino Andrea
Published: February 2024

Duplex stainless steels (DSS), due to their high corrosion resistance, primarily attributed to their austenite‐ferrite duplex microstructure, are widely used in industrial sector such as petrolchimical and gas natural industries. Maintaining this microstructure is crucial during manufacturing processes, including welding which presents the challenge of minimizing ferritization in the heat‐affected zone (HAZ) or weld zone (WZ), as it can significantly reduce their corrosion resistance. This work aims to describe the influence of nitrogen gas in the Ar–N2 shielding atmosphere when depositing beads on 2205 DSS plates, using a gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) process. It is observed that at low nitrogen load (98%Ar–2%N2), the austenite content reaches 49% in WZ and 29% in HAZ. When the nitrogen percentage is increased (50%Ar–50%N2), the austenite content rises to 67% and 37%, respectively. The joint is evaluated macro‐ and microstructurally to observe the atmosphere impact on weld bead geometry and microstructural development. Additionally, hardness is assessed throughout the weld bead. The work demonstrates that, with a 50%Ar–50%N2 shielding gas mixture, it is possible to limit the formation of ferrite in the WZ and HAZ of DSS during the welding process, without altering the microhardness trend of the welded joint.
Licochalcone A induces endoplasmic reticulum stress‐mediated apoptosis of endometrial cancer cells via upregulation of GRP78 expression
Authors: Wu Min‐Hua , Hsieh Yi‐Hsien , Lin Chia‐Liang , Ying Tsung‐Ho , Hsia Shih‐Min , Hsieh Shu‐Ching , Lee Chien‐Hsing , Lin Chu‐Liang
Published: February 2024

Licochalcone A (LicA), a natural compound extracted from licorice root, has been shown to exert a variety of anticancer activities. Whether LicA has such effects on endometrial cancer (EMC) is unclear. This study aims to investigate the antitumor effects of LicA on EMC. Our results show that LicA significantly reduced the viability and induced apoptosis of EMC cells and EMC‐7 cells from EMC patients. LicA was also found to induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, leading to increased expression of ER‐related proteins (GRP78/PERK/IRE1α/CHOP) in EMC cell lines. Suppression of GRP78 expression in human EMC cells treated with LicA significantly attenuated the effects of LicA, resulting in reduced ER‐stress mediated cell apoptosis and decreased expression of ER‐ and apoptosis‐related proteins. Our findings demonstrate that LicA induces apoptosis in EMC cells through the GRP78‐mediated ER‐stress pathway, emphasizing the potential of LicA as an anticancer therapy for EMC.
Vasculogenic mimicry regulates immune infiltration and mutational status of the tumor microenvironment in breast cancer to influence tumor prognosis
Authors: Zheng Shurong , Guo Guilong , Yang Zhi , Lu Yiqiao , Lu Kangkang , Fu Weida , Huang Qidi
Published: February 2024

Background

Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) refers to the direct formation of microcirculatory ducts by invasive malignant tumors via cellular phenotypic transformation. However, there is a lack of VM‐based biomarkers for breast cancer.

Methods

We obtained transcriptomic expression data, single cell sequencing data, and clinical data of patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) database and GEO database, performed single cell analysis to obtain specific type annotations of breast cancer cells and analyzed their spatial expression analysis. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) analyses as well as Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) analyses were performed to clarify the biological pathways and tumor functional enrichment relationships of the major expressed genes of VM in the breast cancer bulk data specimens. VM biomarkers were constructed. Meanwhile, the relationship between VM scores and tumor immune infiltration in breast cancer was analyzed using MCPcounter and ssGSEA methods. In addition, we assessed the specific relationship between NDRG1, a key VM gene in breast cancer, and tumor colonization, adhesion and invasion by biological experiments in breast cancer cell lines.

Results

The main cell types of breast cancer (BRCA) samples were annotated by single cell transcriptome analysis. Most of the VM‐high group was present in epithelial cells, whereas the VM‐low group was present in immune and stromal cells. Multiple tumor pathways such as TGFβ p53 and MAPK were closely associated with VM‐mediated breast cancer infiltration and invasion. A prognostic model of breast cancer based on VM key genes was constituted. Prognostic stratification of breast cancer was successfully achieved for the TCGA‐BRCA and GSE58812 datasets. Through immune infiltration analysis, we found that differential expression of VM markers was associated with multiple immune cell regulation. In MDA‐MB‐231 and MDA‐MB‐453 cell lines, we found that the NDRG1 gene significantly promoted colony formation of breast cancer cells.

Conclusion

Our constructed VM‐related gene‐based model of breast cancer biology holds promise for prognostic prediction and patient stratification of breast cancer. This may provide a potentially clinically valuable aid in promoting a deeper understanding of the biological regulation of VM in breast cancer and exploring the specific mechanisms of tumor angiogenesis and breast cancer development.
Learning about America's Racial Issues: Beginning Difficult Conversations through Read‐Alouds
Authors: Urbani Jacquelyn M. , Monroe‐Speed Candace , Doshi Bhavya
Published: February 2024

Multiple racial issues in America have been brought to the forefront by the recent deaths of African Americans, yet many teachers feel unprepared to engage with students around issues of race. Their discomfort is likely because traditional textbooks omitted the experiences of non‐dominant, marginalized groups, thereby denying readers an opportunity for a rich, multifaceted understanding of historical events. Education has also become politicized, resulting in educational gag orders and book bans. This article recommends using read‐alouds with children's literature to begin the complex conversations and learning around America's racial history and how it has led to contemporary situations. Using the book Let the Children March, we provide examples of how to prepare for discussion and instruction that recognizes the varied experiences of diverse Americans and honors their contributions to our democracy.
Comparing programming languages for data analytics: Accuracy of estimation in Python and R
Authors: Hill Chelsey , Du Lanqing , Johnson Marina , McCullough B. D.
Published: February 2024

Several open‐source programming languages, particularly R and Python, are utilized in industry and academia for statistical data analysis, data mining, and machine learning. While most commercial software programs and programming languages provide a single way to deliver a statistical procedure, open‐source programming languages have multiple libraries and packages offering many ways to complete the same analysis, often with varying results. Applying the same statistical method across these different libraries and packages can lead to entirely different solutions due to the differences in their implementations. Therefore, reliability and accuracy should be essential considerations when making library and package usage decisions while conducting statistical analysis using open source programming languages. Instead, most users take this for granted, assuming that their chosen libraries and packages produce accurate results for their statistical analysis. To this extent, this study assesses the estimation accuracy and reliability of Python and R's various libraries and packages by evaluating the univariate summary statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and linear regression procedures using benchmarking data from the National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST). Further, experimental results are presented comparing machine learning methods for classification and regression. The libraries and packages assessed in this study include the stats package in R and Pandas, Statistics, NumPy, statsmodels, SciPy, statsmodels, scikit‐learn, and pingouin in Python. The results show that the stats package in R and statsmodels library in Python are reliable for univariate summary statistics. In contrast, Python's scikit‐learn library produces the most accurate results and is recommended for ANOVA. Among the libraries and packages assessed for linear regression, the results demonstrated that the stats package in R is more reliable, accurate, and flexible; thus, it is recommended for linear regression analysis. Further, we present results and recommendations for machine learning using R and Python.

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Statistics

Application Areas > Data Mining Software Tools
Towards a Human Rights Centred Criminology
Authors: Weber Leanne , Marmo Marinella
Published: February 2024

Human rights undertakings by governments seldom translate seamlessly into human rights compliance. In the worst-case scenario, governments may have little or no intention of upholding human rights standards to which they have publicly committed and can use their ratification of international instruments and domestic implementation as a veneer to obscure or legitimise continuing abuses. Even in the best-case scenario, local implementation of international human rights agreements may be patchy, overlook the needs of diverse population groups or give rise to unforeseen consequences. In this opening chapter, the editors set out the variety of ways in which applied, theoretically informed criminological research can help to identify systemic human rights abuses and advance a critical human rights agenda and introduce readers to the critiques and strategies set out in the substantive chapters.
Fighting Illiteracy and Political Enlightenment: Soviet Educational Policies in the 1920s
Authors: Toimbek Diana
Published: February 2024

This chapter explores how the education system in early Soviet Kazakhstan reflected the policies intended to develop Soviet citizenry. The methodology is archival research on analyzing primary sources of protocols, decrees, and acts in the educational sphere. I argue that the main political and socio-economic initiatives driven by the Soviet administration in the 1920s shaped the ideas expressed in the educational policy documents. Moreover, by placing the Marxist-Leninist philosophy through ideological indoctrination and “political enlightenment” of mass consciousness in educational establishments, the early Soviet educational initiatives left a lasting and profound legacy in legitimizing the Communist Party’s right to rule and training citizens loyal to the new regime.
Religion and Spirituality in Public Schools of Post-Soviet Uzbekistan
Authors: Khalilova Zilola
Published: February 2024

The paper highlights the policy and strategies for teaching religion within public education in Uzbekistan. The chapter provides an in-depth analysis of the place of teaching religion and the broader debates and set of legislative initiatives surrounding how religious subjects are being introduced into schools. I argue that religious education in public schools in Uzbekistan introduces religious doctrine and morality as a secular-modernized concept, and as a marker of national-cultural character. Evidently, the introduction of religious education in Uzbekistan reveals the intricate dynamics and challenges associated with the role of Islam, external influences from moderate and radical religious circles, and the perceived potential for radicalization, which should be examined in terms of both subjective perseptions and measurable data.