bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Control of Some Fungal Diseases Affecting Guava and Pomegranate from Farm to Fork in Egypt
Authors: Sharkawy Sahar S. A.  , Alkolaly Asmaa M. , Mikhail Sherin Ph.
Published: December 2023

These studies aim to identify a group of pathogens and design an integrated control program reducing the infection in Guava Psidium guajava and Pomegranate Punica granatum by cross inoculation method. Almost eight fungi were collected from governorate Ismaelia and Behera in 2019. Alternaria alternate, Fusarium spp, Phomopsis psidii, Macrophomina spp., Cercospora spp. Botrytis cineria and Pestalotia spp. were the most frequencies isolated fungi on all fruits. In the second season 2020 we treated trees with biocides, fungicides and fertilizer they gave significant differences between the treated treatments and control .The bluegreen algae bio treatment, showed the best results compared with both of RizoN and Plantagaurd treatments, the percentage of disease severity on the leaves was 13.4%, compared to the control45%, the best chemical treatment was Fungalpro, Topsin and Collise, where the disease severity was 0% in case of guava ,the same results obtained in pomegranate .At the end of the season, the best results were in the treatment with fungalpro which gave the least disease severity percentage on each of the leaves, branches and fruits in both guava and pomegranate .In the third season 2022 we applied integrated control program there were a significant decrease in pathogenic fungi in leaves, branches, flowers and ripe fruits, as the population at the end of the season for some fungi reached zero, such as Phomopsis sp. and Pestalotia sp. As Alternaria fungus, the results showed significant differences compared with the control, with regard to Guava, the percentage of disease severity in fruits was 8.75% and 9.75% in both Ismailia and South of Tahrir, respectively, compared to the control, which reached 85.5% and 88.5% in Ismailia and South of Tahrir, respectively. The results for pomegranate followed the same pattern.
Effect of the Electronic Structure of Para-Substituted Benzaldehyde Benzohydrazone on Its Antimicrobial Activity: A DFT Analysis
Authors: N'bouké Maurice , Kankinou Sèlonou Gautier , Kpotin Assongba Gaston , Gómez-Jeria Juan S. , Kpoviessi Salomé D. S. , Atohoun Guy S. Y.
Published: December 2023

Bacillus subtilis is a bacterium that has demonstrated its efficacy across various domains, including industry, agriculture, and commerce, owing to its protective, inhibitory, and biological mechanisms against specific microbes. However, at high concentrations, it can lead to food poisoning and severe infections, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. Bacterial spores produced by Bacillus subtilis can induce conditions like gas gangrene and tetanus. In this context, benzohydrazones are recognized for their antimicrobial activity, particularly against Bacillus subtilis. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between the electronic structure of para-substituted benzaldehyde benzohydrazone derivatives and their antimicrobial activity. This leads to the proposal of a 2D pharmacophore for predicting the antibacterial activity of these derivatives. The quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) approach employed is the KPG method. The electronic structures were optimized using the density functional theory (DFT) method with the B3LYP functional and the 6-31G (d,p) basis set. Charge and local molecular orbitals were considered in the optimization process. The resulting prediction equation (R=98.95%, R²=97.91%, Adjusted R²=96.76%, F(5,9)=84.52) derived from multiple linear regression provides the basis for the proposed 2D pharmacophore. This equation shows that antimicrobial activity of benzohydrazone derivative is on charge and orbital controlled. This pharmacophore holds potential utility in designing new molecular structures with enhanced activity against Bacillus subtilis.
Nutritional Value and Amino Acid Profile of Dried Seeds of Cucumeropsis mannii (Cucurbitaceae)
Authors: Agnei Joelle Lasm , Digbeu Yolande Dogoré , Dué Edmond Ahipo , Brou Kouakou
Published: December 2023

Aims:  To assess the biochemical, phytochemical and amino acid content from Cucumeropsis mannii dried seeds flours grown in Côte d'Ivoire (West Africa). 

Study Design: Experimental.

Place and duration of study: Sample: Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Security, Nangui Abrogoua University

Methodology: Cucumeropsis mannii seeds were obtained for this study from an experimental field in Gagnoa (Côte d’Ivoire). In March 2022, seeds were planted and after 7 months, the mature fruits that lead to the complete drying of the plant were harvested.

Results: The biochemical composition of the seeds revealed that they contain varying proportions of carbohydrates, fibers, ash, total sugars with contents of 9.28 ± 0.79 %; 2.72 ± 0.30 %; 3.12 ± 0.38; 2.34 ± 0.05, respectively. High levels of lipids, proteins, dry matter and energy were observed in seed flour with values of 47.46 ± 1.55 %; 31.80 ± 1.16 %; 94.38 ± 0.6 %; 591.46 ± 1.17 kcal /100 g DM. The resulting flour reached a pH of 6.5. The study of phytochemicals showed varying levels of oxalate (0.32 g/100g DM), tannins (3.02 g TAE/ 100g DM), total polyphenols (8.12 mg GAE / g DM), total flavonoids (27.5 mg QE/g DM) and carotenoids (2.9 µg/100g DM). Furthermore, they were potential sources of essential amino acids, including histidine (905.6 mg/100g), isoleucine (844.5 mg/100g), threonine (730.1mg/100g), phenylalanine (550.0 mg/100g), valine (469.9 mg/100g), leucine (456.6 mg/100g), and methionine (358.5 mg/100g).

Conclusion: The overall result implies that Cucumeropsis mannii seeds could be added to the food preparations of malnourished children.
New Bivoltine Hybrids of the Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) Performance at Farmer’s Site
Authors: Hazarika Dibya Jyoti , Patil Kaiwara Manjuntha Gowtham , Gowda Mahadevegowda Likhith , Jagadeesh Keeranagere , Manjunatha Hosaholalu Boregowda
Published: December 2023

The rise in atmospheric temperature, due to global warming, offers a great challenge to make a successful cocoon harvest, as it not only affects the progression of the larvae but also leads to outbreak of diseases. Thus, silkworm breeds have potential to thrive well under such harsh fluctuating climatic conditions without sacrificing commercial traits of cocoon and silk are in-need. Towards this, new bivoltine breeds developed employing heat shock technology, for the first time, were used to develop four bivoltine double hybrids (NBH1 × FC1, NBH2 x FC1, FC1 x NBH1, and FC1 x NBH2) and two poly hybrids (PM x NBH1 and PM x NBH2) and subjected to evaluation for their performance at the farmer's site. Notably, all four double hybrids distributed to farmers performed very well with substantial cocoon yield. Among them, NBH1 x FC1 and NBH2 x FC1 were outperformed with their high fecundity (675 and 700 eggs/dfl) and cocoon yield of 549 and 228 kg, out of 579 and 225 dfls reared by the farmers respectively. On the other hand, 360 and 248 kg of cocoons were harvested as against a total of 325 dfls and 250 dfls of PM x NBH1 and PM x NBH2 distributed to farmers. Eventually, all the farmers were delighted to rear these new double hybrids and poly hybrids, as it fetched a good price to sell the cocoons. Thus, we suggest all these new double hybrids and poly hybrids shall be used for large-scale silkworm rearing in the field conquering the climate change threat to produce both qualitatively and quantitatively better cocoons and silk that shall protect the wealth of Seri-farmers and silk reelers
Studies on Heterosis for Yield and its Component Traits in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Anjana C. S.  , Yadav G. C. , Singh Niharika , Kumar Sandeep , Choudhary Akhil Kumar
Published: December 2023

A field trial was conducted to estimate the magnitude of heterosis in brinjal, for twenty-two characters, during Rabi 2021 at the Main Experiment Station, Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. 8 parental lines and the 28 F1 hybrids obtained from the parental lines following half-diallel mating design, along with a standard variety, Pant Samrat were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications. Observations were recorded on twenty-two characters viz. days to 50% flowering, days to first fruit harvest, leaf area (cm²), plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant length of fruit (cm), fruit diameter (cm), fruit length/circumference ratio, length of peduncle (cm), length of calyx (cm), number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight (g), fruit yield per plant (kg), crop duration, dry matter content (%), TSS (%), total phenol content (mg/100g), reducing sugars (%), non-reducing sugar (%), total sugars (%) and ascorbic acid content (mg/100g). The study revealed that significant heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis were observed for all the characters under study. The crosses P2 x P4 (42.42% and 25.12%) and P1 x P4 (41.73% and 14.15%) exhibited considerable heterosis over the better parent and the standard variety respectively, which may be commercially exploited for cultivation under sodic soils due to their high yield and desirable fruit qualities.
Economic Analysis of High Density Cotton Farming Systems in Telangana
Authors: Sam K. , Kumaraswamy D. , Kumari R. Vijaya , Supriya K.
Published: December 2023

This study was taken up in three districts (Adilabad, Warangal and Nagarkurnool) from three different zones of Telangana (Northern, Central and Southern). It evaluated the economic benefit of HDPS cotton by comparing it with non HDPS cotton. For this study, multistage sampling was used. HDPS adopters and non-adopters were equally picked from each zone based on the proportionate level of technology adoption. In order to create a sample size of 180 farmers, a total of 90 HDPS adopters and 90 HDPS non-adopters from three agroclimatic zones of Telangana. Cost of cultivation of HDPS cotton for marginal, small and large farms was found to be ₹ 96,376.74, ₹ 98,607.71 and ₹ 1,00,355.77 and in non HDPS cotton, ₹ 91,229.89, ₹ 93,211.99 and ₹ 95,346.71 for marginal, small and large farms respectively. The cost of cultivation for pooled HDPS and non HDPS farms was ₹ 98,239.49 and ₹ 93,266.07 per hectare respectively. The cost difference between the HDPS and non HDPS cotton was ₹ 4,973.42 per hectare. Among the selected three districts of three zones of Telangana, cost of cultivation of pooled HDPS cotton farmers was high for Nagarkurnool with ₹ 97,802.37 per hectare followed by Adilabad and Warangal (Urban and Rural) with ₹ 96,320.62 and ₹ 96,121.03 per hectare respectively. The gross returns and net returns were more for Adilabad district with ₹ 1,32,452.47 and ₹ 33,231.24 per hectare followed by Nagarkurnool with ₹ 1,28,254.13 and ₹ 31,982.02 and Warangal with ₹ 1,27,452.45 and ₹ 32,252.21 per hectare, respectively. The farm business income for HDPS cotton farms was found to be ₹ 75,857.40 per hectare which is higher than non HDPS farms i.e., ₹ 61,241.23 per hectare. The family labour income of the HDPS farmer was also found to be more for HDPS cotton i.e., ₹ 45,784.11 per hectare compared to the non HDPS cotton farms i.e., ₹ 31,502.68 per hectare. Because of high farm business income, the family investment income was more for HDPS cotton i.e., ₹ 65,665.92 per hectare as compared to the non HDPS cotton i.e., ₹ 53,225.01 per hectare respectively. The average gross returns of HDPS cotton across the State on selected marginal, small and large farms were ₹ 1,17,750.00, ₹ 1,28,587.50 and ₹ 1,38,125.12 per hectare, respectively. Similarly, the net profits for HDPS cotton over cost C2 basis on marginal, small and large farms in the state were ₹ 21,373.26, ₹ 29,979.80 and ₹ 37,769.35 per hectare respectively. Average yield obtained in HDPS cotton farms was 20.25 quintal per hectare and for non HDPS cotton farms it was 17.95 quintal per hectare.
Effect of Enriched Organic Compost and Foliar Nutrition on Growth and Yield of Ragi (Eleusine coracana L.)
Authors: Prabavathi G. Rama , Ramesh S.
Published: December 2023

An on-field experiment was conducted at Puliyanthoppu village in Krishnagiri District, Tamil Nadu during (Dec 2019 – April 2020) to examine how enriched organic compost and foliar nutrition influenced the growth performance and production of finger millet under irrigated condition. The experiment was comprised of three main plot plot treatments (enriched FYM compost, enriched poultry manure compost and enriched pressmud compost at 750 kg ha-1) and five sub plot treatments (Foliar spray of humic acid, panchagavya, vermiwash, seaweed extract with different concentration), adopting statistical design SPD and it was replicated thrice. From the results of the field experiment, among main pot, enriched poultry manure compost @ 750 kg ha-1 (M3) significantly exhibited greater values of growth and yield such as plant height (103.64cm), LAI (5.71), number of tillers (161.27 m-2) and  dry matter production (9156 kg ha-1), grain yield (3504 kg ha-1) and straw yield (6597 kg ha-1).. Similar results were obtained under subplot treatments, namely foliar spray of seaweed extract @ 0.3% on 20, 40 and 60 DAT (S3) . whereas, the least values of growth and yield of ragi were registered under control (water spray). It was determined that there was a substantial interaction impact between the main and subplot treatments. This study illustrate that cultivation of ragi under irrigated condition with combined application of enriched poultry manure @ 750 kg ha-1 and foliar application of seaweed extract @ 0.3% on 20, 40 and 60 DAT was found to be an economically and agronomically sound practice that would increase productivity and profitability in krishnagiri district of Tamil nadu.
Undergraduate Medical Students’ Preferred Choices of Learning Style, Teaching Pedagogies and Assessment methods in the Ophthalmology Module at National Defence University of Malaysia
Authors: Reddy Sagili Chandrasekhara
Published: December 2023

Objectives: The aims of this study were to identify the students’ preferred choices of learning style, to determine their preferred teaching pedagogies and assessment methods in the Ophthalmology module of undergraduate medical course.

Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted among 97 consecutive medical students of year 4 Ophthalmology posting in the Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, National Defence University of Malaysia, over a period of two academic years. Each student was given a structured questionnaire, after completing their clinical rotation posting examination, for his/her responses to determine their preferred choices of learning style, teaching pedagogies and assessment methods in the Ophthalmology module. The students were asked to circle their preferred choice of the responses given for each question for the above mentioned three methods. The data was analyzed using SPSS software and the frequency of variables were expressed as percentage.

Results: Out of 97 consecutive students in this study, females were slightly more (52.6%) than males, and the mean age was 23.5 years (range 23-24 years). A combination of various methods of learning style that included reading, hearing, seeing, and practicing of skills was used by 75.3% of students. Majority of the students preferred their method of learning by reading the lecture notes/handouts (68%). The most preferred method of students’ learning by hearing was case discussion (53.6%); while for learning by vision (seeing) it was clinics session (60.8%). More than 3/4 of the students preferred to learn their practicing skills on real patients (83.5%). The most preferred teaching method by the students was bed side teaching (52.6%); and in lectures/seminars it was using both power point presentation and explaining on the board with marker pen (71.1%). In the end of posting theory examination, 45.4% of students preferred assessment method which was a combination of multiple choice (true/false) questions and single best answer questions, while in the objective structured clinical examination it was a combination of interactive station with patient and non-interactive stations without patients (48.5%).

Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, an effective learning and teaching environment for the students during their two weeks duration Ophthalmology posting will be modified by the educators in the future academic years so that the students will be encouraged for better performance in their end of posting examination as well as in the final professional examination. Every tool of assessment used in the medical course should be made clear to the students and the students should practice them during the postings period, in order to perform better during the evaluation in the examination.
Fabrication of Customized Ocular Prosthesis using a Surface Sealant and Modified Laboratory Technique Using Stainless Steel Wire
Authors: Titar Madhura , Sanyal Pronob , Joshi Shubha
Published: December 2023

Eye defects are surgically classified as evisceration, enucleation, and exenteration. It causes psychological trauma as an individual is visually and esthetically compromised. Eye defects can be restored with silicone or acrylic-based prosthesis. This is a case report of a patient with a customized ocular prosthesis where emphasis has been given to securing the iris shell during the laboratory process. A surface sealant has been used to provide glossiness to the prosthesis. The appearance of the patient was enhanced with the eye prosthesis.
Design of a Model Predictive Controlled Single‐Stage Boost Assisted High Frequency Inverter for Wireless EV Charging System
Authors: Venugopal R. , Balaji C.
Published: January 2025

This article proposes a new Wireless EV charging system with a single stage boost assisted flyback (SSBAFB) inverter. Also, this presents Model predictive (MP) control for the proposed system. The key merits of the proposed SSBAFB inverter are better efficiency (boost stage optimizes the energy transfer), cost‐effectiveness, possibility of integrating with renewable sources. The significant features of MP control are predictive performance, better dynamic response, multi‐objective control, robustness, and many more. In the literature, two MP controls were employed, one on the transmitter side and the other on the receiver side for controlling efficiency and load regulation respectively. The proposed MP‐controlled SSBAFB inverter‐based WPT system utilizes single MP control, which can attend to both load regulation and efficiency enhancement. To validate the performance of the proposed WPT system, a 3.3 kW laboratory model has been developed. The steady‐state and dynamic performance of the proposed system under closed‐loop control exhibits better performance. The comparison of the proposed converter with possible converter topologies shows that the proposed converter stands out in producing high efficiency. A comparative study of the proposed MP controller with other conventional controls proves that the proposed MP controller offers better steady‐state stability and fast dynamic responses.
Lattice Hydrogen Boosts CO Tolerance of Pd Anode Catalysts in High‐Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Huang Gen , Wu Yujie , Li Yingying , Du Shiqian , Liu Qie , Li Miaoyu , Zhang Dongcai , Jiang Zuyao , Zhong Siyu , Lu Shanfu , Tao Li , Wang Shuangyin
Published: January 2025

High‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT‐PEMFCs) demonstrate crude hydrogen can be a cost‐effective fuel source. However, the performance of HT‐PEMFCs is hindered by challenges such as high‐concentration CO poisoning and preferential adsorption of H3PO4 on electrocatalysts. This study explores the performance of Pt group metals as anode catalysts, specifically focusing on hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) activity, H3PO4 tolerance, and CO tolerance under operational conditions in HT‐PEMFCs. The results reveal that all Pt‐group catalysts significantly improve HOR activity with increasing reaction temperature. Notably, Pd‐based catalysts demonstrate superior H3PO4 tolerance and CO tolerance. HT‐PEMFCs using Pd/C as the anode catalyst maintain the highest output power density, achieving a remarkable 6.4‐fold performance compared to Pt/C catalysts and superior stability in the presence of 3%–10% CO in H2. Both experimental and theoretical investigations have consistently demonstrated that Pd possesses the weakest CO adsorption energy, the existence of CO in crude H2 in HT‐PEMFCs inhibits hydrogen overflow from the lattice interstitial space of Pd, and the trapped lattice hydrogen further promotes the desorption of CO. This research contributes to the advancement of direct utilizing industrial crude hydrogen as a fuel for HT‐PEMFCs and offers invaluable insights into reactions involving CO.
A Hydrogel Engineered with Semiconductive MnPSe3 Nanosheets as an Integrative Sonosensitizer/Fenton‐Like Catalyst/Nutrient for Melanoma Postoperative Care
Authors: Zhang Xinxin , Huang Jimin , Huang Jinzhou , Shi Zhe , Niu Huicong , Zheng Yi , Wang Xiao , Wu Chengtie , Chen Jiajie , Liu Ping , Zhu Yufang
Published: January 2025

The simultaneous inhibition of tumor recurrence and promotion of wound healing are critical for patients undergoing melanoma surgery. However, the development of an effective yet straightforward platform that meets the comprehensive therapeutic requirements of clinical melanoma postoperative care still remains a significant challenge. Herein, a 2D semiconductive MnPSe3 nanosheets (MPS NSs)‐engineered sodium alginate (SA) hydrogel dressing (SA‐MPS) is developed. The MPS NSs, a member of the ternary transition metal phosphorous chalcogenides (TMPCs), are successfully prepared through an ultrasonic‐assisted liquid phase exfoliation approach from bulk MnPSe3. These nanosheets exhibit the integrative functions of sonosensitizers, Fenton‐like catalysts, glutathione (GSH) scavengers, and phosphorus (P)/selenium (Se)‐containing nutrients. In vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrate that the SA‐MPS hydrogel dressing possesses excellent biocompatibility and is effective for combined sonodynamic/chemodynamic therapy (SDT/CDT) of tumors, with amplified reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Additionally, it promotes skin regeneration in postoperative wounds by supplying bioactive P/Se elements. Hence, such a multifunctional SA‐MPS hydrogel dressing without complex integration offers great potential for suppressing postoperative melanoma recurrence while facilitating wound healing, making it a promising candidate for melanoma postoperative care.
Temperature‐Mediated Controllable Adhesive Hydrogels with Remarkable Wet Adhesion Properties Based on Dynamic Interchain Interactions
Authors: Wu Che , Cheng Yan , Wang Kai , Ni Yimeng , Wang Wenyi , Wu Ruizi , Huang Jianying , Lai Yuekun
Published: January 2025

With the increasing demand in fields such as wearable sensors, soft robotics, tissue engineering, and wound dressings, the development of hydrogels with strong adhesion in wet environments has become a critical focus of research. However, most existing adhesive materials lack the ability to transition rapidly and reversibly between the adhesive and nonadhesive states, and their adhesion is often limited to a single wet environment. In this study, a smart interfacial adhesive hydrogel with tunable adhesion properties across diverse liquid environments is presented. By tailoring interchain interactions and leveraging electrostatically induced traction between hydrophilic and hydrophobic chain segments, the hydrogel achieves reversible adhesion modulation in response to temperature changes while maintaining strong wet adhesion. Notably, its adhesive strength at elevated temperatures (45 °C) is approximately three times greater than at lower temperatures (5 °C). The adhesive hydrogel exhibits an adhesive strength of 227 kPa in aqueous environments and 213 kPa in oil‐containing environments. This innovative design strategy enables the hydrogel to exhibit broad switchable, and dynamic wet adhesion capabilities, unlocking significant potential for a wide range of applications.
Microneedle Array‐Based Dermal Interstitial Fluid Biopsy for Cancer Diagnosis: Advances and Challenges
Authors: Merzougui Chaima , Yang Xi , Meng Dianhuai , Huang Yan , Zhao Xiangwei
Published: January 2025

Current early cancer diagnostic technologies, such as imaging, molecular tests, endoscopic techniques, and biopsies, face considerable challenges in low‐and middle‐income countries (LMICs) due to high costs, procedural complexity, and limited resource access. Microneedle‐based liquid biopsy for skin interstitial fluid (ISF) offers a practical and minimally invasive alternative for cancer diagnosis in these settings. This review systematically examines ISF liquid biopsy methods for their effectiveness in capturing cancer biomarkers directly from the skin and assesses their potential to address diagnostic needs in low‐resource environments. Recent innovations in microneedle design and ISF underscore their potential in enabling early, accessible cancer detection tailored to LMICs' needs. Additionally, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) for data interpretation is proposed as a way to enhance diagnostic accuracy and enable real‐time point‐of‐care (POC) applications. Collectively, these advances illustrate a flexible, scalable model for accessible cancer diagnostics, with significant implications for improving early detection and healthcare quality in resource‐limited environments.
Broadband Near‐Infrared Fibers Derived from Nanocrystal‐Glass Composites for Miniature Arrays Light Sources
Authors: Sun Yongsheng , Sun Min , Lun Zhenjie , Liu Gaochao , Huang Yupeng , Chen Weibin , Wang Yuzhen , Huang Haozhang , Chen Qianyi , Li Jialong , Xia Zhiguo
Published: January 2025

Broadband near‐infrared (NIR) fiber arrays are highly desirable for multiplexed fluorescence endoscopic, however, there is a challenge for the development of miniature light sources with highly efficient broadband NIR emissions. Here the synthesis of a MgAl2O4:Cr3+ nanocrystal‐glass composite (NGC) with an Cr3+‐clusters‐induced broadband NIR emission possessing is presented and external quantum efficiency of 44% and a full width at half maximum of 297 nm, and the NGC fiber is further fabricated through a template solidification strategy, resulting in the construction of an all‐fiber coupling system by fusing them with commercial quartz fiber that achieves an optical coupling efficiency of 95.2%. Furthermore, these NGC fibers are regularly arranged into fiber bundle as an array light source to enhance NIR luminescence and imaging ability, and the fluorescence imaging of 4 mm biological tissue penetration is realized, as well as the multiplexed fluorescence imaging, under the irradiation of the NIR fiber bundle. This study provides general and efficient fiber fabrication guidelines toward NIR array light sources, opening the new routes for fluorescence endoscopes.
Unlocking Time‐Dependent Visual Response Mode Through Regulating the Photo‐Induced Local Structure Evolution Process of C@TiO2:Sm,N
Authors: Wang Fangke , He Ruiling , Zhao Yuanyuan , Zhu Lin , Xu Zhixin , Qin Zengming , Zhang Ji , Xie Haijiao , Wang Kangjun
Published: January 2025

A new time‐dependent dual‐mode visual response system is developed based on C@TiO2:Sm,N/PVA film. In situ irradiation (ISI)–electron paramagnetic resonance and ISI–X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy combined with DFT calculations reveal that the visual response behavior is attributed to the dynamic evolution of a distinct local structure containing TiO6, TiO5N, and SmO6 units connected via the bridging oxygen atom. Upon UV irradiation, the localization of the photogenerated electrons induces a rapid release of bridging oxygen atoms, creating oxygen vacancies, effectively hindering the energy transfer from TiO2 to Sm3+ and resulting in a strong luminescence modulation that reaches the theoretical maximum (99.9%) within 1 s. With prolonged UV exposure (3–20 s), the bridging oxygen vacancies act as electron traps, and the photogenerated electrons accumulate around the Ti atoms near them. This causes the film to transition from white to dark blue, achieving a high photochromic contrast (51.4%). A foundation for advanced information encryption and anticounterfeiting is established based on the different time scales of luminescence modulation and photochromism. This study confirms the application potential of the film in “burn after reading” and dynamic information encryptions and advanced anticounterfeiting labels, and it offers comprehensive insights into the design of smart photoresponsive materials.
Peptide‐Bound Aflibercept Eye Drops for Treatment of Neovascular Age‐Related Macular Degeneration in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Fan Xingyan , Jiang Kuan , Zhao Yongqian , Lee Benjamin TK , Geng Feiyang , Brelen Marten E , Lu Weiyue , Wei Gang
Published: January 2025

The advent of biomacromolecules antagonizing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has revolutionized the treatment of neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (nAMD). However, frequent intravitreal injections of these biomacromolecules impose an enormous burden on patients and create a massive workload for healthcare providers. This causes patients to abandon therapy, ultimately leading to progressive and irreversible vision loss. In order to address this unmet clinical need, a noninvasive treatment for nAMD is developed. An optimized cell‐penetrating peptide derivative, bxyPenetratin (bxyWP), is used to non‐covalently complex with the anti‐VEGF protein aflibercept (AFL) via reversible hydrophobic interaction. The interaction is crucial for AFL delivery, neither impairing the affinity of AFL to pathological VEGF, nor being interfered by endogenous proteins in tear fluids. AFL/bxyWP eye drops exhibit prolonged retention on the eye and excellent absorption into the posterior ocular segment following topical administration, with significant drug distribution to the retina and choroid. In a laser‐induced choroidal neovascularization model on cynomolgus monkeys, AFL/bxyWP eye drops efficiently reduce lesion size and leakage comparable to conventional intravitreal injection of AFL. These results suggest that AFL/bxyWP eye drops are feasible self‐administered treatment for neovascular retinal diseases and potentially become a substitute for intravitreal injections.
Practical and Versatile Sodium‐Ion Batteries Realized With Nitrile‐Based Electrolytes
Authors: Liu Gaopan , Zhang Kai , Cao Yongjie , Hou Runqiao , Wang Yonggang , Dong Xiaoli , Xia Yongyao
Published: January 2025

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) hold tremendous potential in next‐generation energy storage. However, no SIB has yet achieved simultaneous support for high voltage, rapid charging, and all‐climate adaptability due to electrolyte limitations. This study successfully constructs versatile SIBs using an optimized acetonitrile (AN)‐based electrolyte, which offers excellent high‐voltage tolerance, high ionic conductivity, anion‐enriched solvation structure, and a wide liquidus temperature range. The engineered solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) exhibits low resistance and exceptional stability, effectively supporting fast charging, temperature‐adaptive operation, and long‐term cycling stability. Consequently, this tailored electrolyte, combined with a robust SEI, enables hard carbon (HC) anodes to achieve a high reversible capacity of 223 mAh g−1 at a fast rate of 5 C. When paired with a high‐voltage NaNi1/3Fe1/3Mn1/3O2 (NFM) cathode, the HC||NFM full cells operate stably at a high cut‐off voltage of 4.15 V, sustaining over 1400 cycles at 5 C. Furthermore, a practical 3 Ah pouch cell demonstrates excellent stability, retaining 90.7% of its capacity after 1000 cycles, and shows all‐climate adaptability, maintaining 56.4% of its room‐temperature capacity at −60 °C and 97.3% retention after 350 cycles at 50 °C. This work provides valuable insights for developing advanced electrolytes for versatile and practical SIBs.
New strategy for predicting liquid–liquid equilibrium near critical point using global renormalization group theory
Authors: Shih Yen‐Jen , Lin Shiang‐Tai
Published: January 2025

Classical liquid activity coefficient models, such as the nonrandom two‐liquid (NRTL) model, fail near the critical point of the liquid–liquid equilibrium (LLE), unless a highly nonlinear temperature dependency is introduced for the molecular interaction parameters. In this work, we propose an approach to predict the LLE data near the critical point using data away from the critical region based on the global renormalization group theory (GRGT). Specifically, we propose a non‐empirical approach to determine the GRGT parameters, which does not rely on experimental data. The performance of our method is examined using the NRTL model on 21 binary mixtures. Our results show that the predictive approach proposed in this work reduces the error in the critical solution temperatures by about 48% when compared to the classical NRTL model with linear temperature‐dependent interaction parameters.
Access to Quaternary‐Substituted Cyclobutylsilanes by Ring Opening of Arylbicyclobutanes with Silyllithium Reagents
Authors: Sercel Zachary P. , Marek Ilan
Published: January 2025

Disclosed herein is the reaction of silyllithium reagents with quaternary‐substituted arylbicyclobutanes to diastereoselectively form polysubstituted cyclobutylsilanes by C−C bond cleavage. The bicyclobutanes are generated in situ, by lithium‐halogen exchange, from readily accessible (bromomethyl)iodocyclopropane precursors, rendering this a one‐pot transformation. The trapping of a generated cyclobutyllithium intermediate with an electrophile was also demonstrated, providing a cyclobutane product with vicinal quaternary stereocenters. The utility of the cyclobutylsilane products was showcased by Tamao−Fleming oxidation to prepare a quaternary‐substituted cyclobutanol.
Non‐template Tailored Macrocyclic Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, Biological and Computational Studies
Authors: Kumar Jai , Kumar Ramesh , Singh Devender , Kumar Harish , Jangra Arti , Gupta Praveen Kumar
Published: January 2025

Some novel biologically active tetraaza‐macrocyclic complexes of Fe (III) and Cr (III) were synthesized by non‐template method. In this methodology, first macrocyclic ligand was synthesized by condensation reaction between triethylenetetramine and dimedone which was further reacted with trivalent Fe and Cr ions to synthesize the macrocyclic complexes having general formula [M(C14H26N4)(X)](X)2 where X represents Cl−, NO3−, CH3COO−. Various physiochemical studies suggested the square pyramidal geometry around the metal ion of all complexes. With the aid of PXRD technique, it was found that some of the complexes possessed monoclinic crystal system while other complexes showed to have orthorhombic crystal system. The DFT study was also carried out to examine the various quantum descriptors of ligand and its complexes. Moreover, newly synthesized macrocyclic ligand and its complexes with Fe and Cr ions were tested against fungal strain as well various bacterial strains. The results of antibacterial study showed that all complexes exhibited remarkable ability to inhibit the growth of microbes as compared to ligand. All complexes were found to have drug‐likeness behavior as indicated by in‐silico studies. Furthermore, these complexes were also tested for their antioxidant activity and it was observed that complexes showed better antioxidant activity as compared to ligand and standard solution of ascorbic acid.
Genome‐wide aggregated trans‐ effects analysis identifies genes encoding immune checkpoints as core genes for rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Spiliopoulou Athina , Iakovliev Andrii , Plant Darren , Sutcliffe Megan , Sharma Seema , Cubuk Cankut , Lewis Myles , Pitzalis Costantino , Barton Anne , McKeigue Paul M
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The sparse effector “omnigenic” hypothesis postulates that the polygenic effects of common SNPs on a typical complex trait are mediated by trans‐ effects that coalesce on expression of a relatively sparse set of core genes. The objective of this study was to identify core genes for rheumatoid arthritis by testing for association of rheumatoid arthritis with genome‐wide aggregated trans‐ effects (GATE) scores for expression of each gene as transcript in whole blood or as circulating protein levels.

Methods

GATE scores were calculated for 5400 cases and 453705 non‐cases of primary rheumatoid arthritis in UK Biobank participants of European ancestry.

Results

Testing for association with GATE scores identified 16 putative core genes for rheumatoid arthritis outside the HLA region, of which six – TP53BP1, PDCD1, TNFRSF14, LAIR1, LILRA4, and IDO1 – were supported by Mendelian randomization analysis based on the marginal likelihood of the causal effect parameter. Five of these 16 genes were validated by a reported association of rheumatoid arthritis with SNPs within 200 kb of the transcription site, 8 by association of the measured protein level with rheumatoid arthritis in UK Biobank, 10 by experimental perturbation in mouse models of inflammatory arthritis, and two – CTLA4 and PDCD1 – by evidence that drugs targeting the gene cause or ameliorate inflammatory arthritis in humans. 14 of these 16 genes are in pathways affecting immunity or inflammation and six – CD5, CTLA4, TIGIT, LAIR1, TNFRSF14, PDCD1 – encode receptors that have been characterized as immune checkpoints exploited by cancer cells to escape the immune response.

Conclusion

These results highlight the key role of immune checkpoints in rheumatoid arthritis and identify possible therapeutic targets.
Dithienylethene Proton Cranes – Another Way to Switch the Tautomeric State
Authors: Zaharieva Lidia , Deneva Vera , Angelov Ivan , Antonov Liudmil
Published: January 2025

Dithienylethenes (DTE) are a rare class of photoswitches, which are capable of undergoing a fast photochemical cyclization leading to increased aromaticity of the closed isomer. At the same time in most of the tautomeric compounds the tautomeric state is strongly affected by the change in the aromaticity of the involved aromatic rings. Very recently it has been shown that the implementation of DTE moiety in salicylideneaniline leads to switching of the stable open form enol tautomer to thermodynamically stable keto tautomer upon cyclization. In the present communication we consider in depth, by using DFT and TD‐DFT methodology, the reasons for low efficiency of these new switches and further develop the idea for DTE based switching in proton cranes.
Unusual Caesium Monensinate A: Crystallographic Evidence for the Formation of Dinuclear Coordination Species in the Solid State
Authors: Petkov Nikolay , Ivanova Anela , Nedyalkova Miroslava , Simova Svetlana , Dorkov Petar , Ugrinov Angel , Pantcheva Ivayla
Published: January 2025

The polyether ionophore monensin A (MonH), applied as silver monensinate, reacts with caesium cations to form a dinuclear complex [Mon2Cs2] the structure of which has been solved by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Two Cs+ ions are located in the hydrophilic cage of two ligand anions, achieving coordination number eight. In addition, the metal cations are bridged by two functional groups of monensinate A, completing the inner tenfold coordination sphere. NMR studies show that the dinuclear complex dissociates to its mononuclear counterparts in methanol solutions. Further molecular dynamics theoretical modelling of the interaction of monensinate A with alkali metal ions reveals the effect of solvent polarity on the zipping ability of the ligand. Thus, in methanol, used as an explicit solvent, potassium and rubidium cations fully occupy the cavity of the ligand, whereas the sodium monensinate exists in an “open” form, with Na+ ions still interacting with the monodentate carboxylate group. The replacement of methanol by the less polar chloroform induces the folding of monensinate A and the formation of “closed” structures with all group 1 metal cations. The obtained data explain the specifics in the behaviour of monensinate A caused by the environment, e. g., physical state or solvent.
Recommendations for Advancing Understanding of Eating Disorders in Neurodivergent People: A Commentary on Inal‐Kaleli et al. 2024 and Nimbley et al. 2024
Authors: Herle Moritz , Carter Leno Virginia , Mandy Will
Published: January 2025

Two recent reviews in the International Journal of Eating Disorders have highlighted the preponderance and unmet needs of neurodivergent people who experience disordered eating. In this commentary, we encourage researchers to engage with the bigger question of “What's Next?” and consider the type of research that is needed to shift the dial by lowering the incidence and persistence of disordered eating in neurodivergent people. As a starting point, we believe that future research must be guided by the needs and priorities of neurodivergent people with experience of eating disorders. Based on our own experience of community collaboration, we make specific recommendations for future research: (1) Broadening the Scope; such that we expand the focus beyond anorexia nervosa, and consider other manifestations of disordered eating, such as restriction, binge eating and emotional eating, and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), but also acknowledge the impact of other forms of neurodivergence beyond autism (e.g., ADHD), (2) Identifying Causal Mechanisms; moving beyond describing prevalence to studying why and how neurodevelopmental traits are associated with disordered eating (which in turn will inform new intervention design), and (3) Adapting Existing Interventions; understanding how current interventions can be adapted to meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals.
Response Surface Optimization of Hexane Extraction and Chemical Characterization of Oil From Locusta migratoria
Authors: Deniz Şirinyıldız Derya , Yorulmaz Aslı
Published: January 2025

Response surface methodology (RSM) was utilized to determine the effect of extraction temperature (25°C–50°C), extraction time (40–240 min), and solvent:solid ratio (6–20 mL/g) on oil yield from Locusta migratoria (LM) using hexane extraction. The optimum parameters obtained from response surface analysis were 30°C of extraction temperature, 80 min of extraction time, and 17:1 mL/g solvent:solid ratio. The highest oil yield obtained at optimum conditions was 50.33%. The fatty acid profile of extracted LM oil was primarily composed of oleic (36.82%), palmitic (23.88%), and linoleic (22.07%) acids. The oil principally covered triglycerides with equivalent carbon number (ECN) 48, 46, and 44, and the major triacylglycerols were palmitodiolein (14.97%), palmitooleolinolein (12.72%), and dipalmitoolein (11.79%). The sterol content of the LM oil was 12 638.66 mg/kg, and the main sterol was cholesterol, which covered 83.80% of the total sterols. The oil had a noticeable amount of γ‐tocopherol (223.31 mg/kg), followed by α‐tocopherol.

Practical Applications: Insects are encouraging candidates for incorporation in food systems due to their high nutritional value, low adverse environmental effect, and fast reproduction rate. Insect lipids have critical importance not only for being sustainable alternatives for plant‐ and animal‐based oils; but also for enhancing consumer acceptance and industrial applicability. Moreover, oil extraction from insect matrix is essential before protein extraction. The findings of the current study show that hexane extraction is a convenient technique to obtain oil from Locusta migratoria, and the obtained oil is a valuable intermediate for food applications due to its considerable chemical composition.
Synthesis of β‐Aminoketones via Arylboronic Acid Catalyzed Decarboxylative Mannich Reactions of Enamines and β‐Ketoacids
Authors: Wang Beining , Wang Yiding , Li Jun , Zhao Liuying , Wang Junyu , Wei Xinyu , Yuan Xiangyang , Hu Haipeng
Published: January 2025

Herein, we report an arylboronic acid‐catalyzed Mannich reaction of β‐ketoacids and enamines. In this transformation, the enamine served as an imine equivalent to react with the β‐ketoacids with the delivery of CO2 as the sole by‐product. A series of β‐aminoketones were obtained in yields of 48 % to 96 % under mild reaction conditions with 5 mol % catalyst loading. Additionally, the product was synthesized on a gram scale and further transformations were carried out. A possible catalytic cycle was proposed.
Punishment and dynamic choice: Assessment of the direct‐suppression model
Authors: Fontes Rafaela M. , Shahan Timothy A.
Published: January 2025

The effects of punishment rate on response allocation were investigated using a choice procedure where relative reinforcement rates changed rapidly within session. Predictions from a modified version of the direct‐suppression model were tested in two separate experiments. In both experiments, sessions were composed of seven unsignaled components, each programming a different reinforcement ratio. In Experiment 1, equal punishment rates were superimposed on the schedule of reinforcement for both responses and absolute punishment rates increased across blocks of sessions. Punishment increased preference for the richer schedule of reinforcement, but the degree of the preference shift was not a function of absolute punishment rates. In Experiment 2, unequal punishment rates were superimposed on the schedules of reinforcement for both responses and relative punishment rates changed across blocks of sessions. Response allocation shifted away from the richer punishment schedule creating a bias toward the option associated with less frequent punishment. The results from both experiments challenged the predictions of the direct‐suppression model. Furthermore, fits of the generalized matching law to the data indicated that superimposition of equal or unequal punishment schedules on responses maintained by unequal reinforcement schedules differentially affect the values of sensitivity and bias.
Tolerance to NSAIDs in Actinobacteria From a Mexican Volcano Crater: Genomics and Bioremediation Potential
Authors: Soria‐Camargo Claudia , Can‐Ubando Lorna Catalina , Manzanares‐Leal Gauddy Lizeth , Sánchez‐Reyes Ayixon , Dávila‐Ramos Sonia , Batista‐García Ramón Alberto , Ramírez‐Durán Ninfa
Published: January 2025

Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are emerging contaminants that pose significant health and environmental risks due to their persistence, including their presence in drinking water. Bioremediation, particularly through microorganisms such as actinobacteria, offers a sustainable approach to mitigate these pollutants. Actinobacteria from poly‐extreme environments exhibit unique genetic and metabolic adaptations, enabling resistance to and degradation of various contaminants. This study aimed to evaluate the tolerance of actinobacteria to NSAIDs and conduct a genomic analysis of a selected strain. Actinobacteria were isolated from the crater of the Chichonal volcano [Chiapas, Mexico), resulting in 16 isolates. Among these, Micrococcus luteus P8SUE1, Micrococcus yunnanensis P9AGU1, and Kocuria rhizophila P1AGU3 demonstrated tolerance to diclofenac, ibuprofen, and paracetamol at concentrations of 1 ppm, 10 ppm, and 100 ppm, respectively. Whole‐genome sequencing of M. yunnanensis P9AGU1 identified genes linked to the degradation of aromatic compounds and adaptations to extreme environmental conditions, highlighting its potential for bioremediation applications.