bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Nano Nitrogen and Nano Zinc on Growth and Yield of Paddy in Paddy-Paddy Cropping System
Authors: Sahana  , Ravi M. V. , Rao K. Narayana , Vishwanath J. , Umesh M. R. , Mahadevaswamy
Published: April 2023

An investigation on nano nitrogen and nano zinc with different levels of nitrogen approaches on growth and yield of paddy was conducted during rabi and kharif seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Krishi Vigyana Kendra, Gangavathi, Koppal, Karnataka, India. The experiment was laid out in split-split plot design with three replications, which consisted of four levels of nitrogen in main plots, three levels of nano nitrogen in sub plots and two levels of nano zinc in sub-sub plots. The treatment with application of 125 per cent Recommended Dose of Nitrogen (RDN) has recorded significantly taller plants (97.11 and 96.54 cm), higher number of tillers hill-1 (19.65 and18.14) and total dry matter (70.06 and 64.54 g hill-1) at harvest stage of crop and the Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) values (46.69 and 42.60) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values (0.85 and 0.82) at flowering stage of crop, Similarly, foliar spray of nitrogen @ 4000 ppm has recorded significantly higher plant height (95.44 and 91.33 cm), higher number of tillers hill-1 (17.75 and 16.01), total dry matter (66.84 and 62.31 g hill-1) SPAD values at flowering stage (44.89 and 41.29), NDVI values at flowering stage (0.81 and 0.74), grain yield (5623 & and 6840 kg ha-1) and straw yield (5352 and 6581 kg ha-1). Interaction effect showed non-significant effect with different combination treatments.
Influence of Sulphur and Foliar Application of Molybdenum on Growth and Yield of Summer Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)
Authors: Reddy Kaniki Reddy Thulasi Krishna , Debbarma Victor , Reddy S. Praneeth Kumar
Published: April 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Zaid 2022 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology And Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P). To determine the “Influence of sulphur and foliar application of molybdenum on growth and yield of summer cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.).” The results showed that treatment 9 [Sulphur (30kg/ha) + Molybdenum (15ppm)] recorded significantly higher plant height (59.5 cm), higher number of branches/plant (6.60), higher number of nodules/plant (33.80), higher plant dry weight (16.26 g). Whereas, maximum number of pods/plant (14.87), maximum number of seeds/pod (10.67), higher test weight (133.34 g), higher seed yield (1.03 t/ha), higher haulm yield (1.70 t/ha), was recorded in treatment 9 [sulphur (30kg/ha) + Molybdenum (15ppm)]. Similarly, maximum gross returns (73,697.44 INR/ha), higher netreturns (49,050.92 INR/ha) and highest benefit cost ratio (1.99) was also recorded in treatment 9 [sulphur (30kg/ha) + Molybdenum (15ppm)] as compared to other treatments.
Influence of Boron, Zinc and Iron on Growth and Yield of Summer Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Pandey Abhishek Kumar , Dawson Joy
Published: April 2023

A field trial was conducted on the crop maize in the during Zaid season of 2022 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P). The trai was carried out to research “Influence of boron, zinc and iron on growth and yield of summer maize. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 6.9), available N (270.81 kg/ha), available P (11.5 kg/ha) and available K (215.9 kg/ha). The trail was laid out in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments each replicated thrice on the basis of one year experimentation.The results showed that the foliar application of boron 0.6% along with 25kg/ha of zinc and 25kg/ha of iron (treatment no. 8) was recorded significantly maximum plant height (205.79 cm), Plant dry weight (179.67 g/plant), Crop growth rate (28.11 g/m2/day) No. of leaves/plant (13.93), No. of cob/plant(2.07), No. of row/cob (14.67), No. of seeds/row (26.00), Test weight (238.0 g), Grain yield (5.40 t/ha), Straw yield (9.60 t/ha), Harvest index (35.97), Gross returns (122400.0 INR/ha), Net return (77210.0 INR/ha) and benefit cost ratio (1.71) as compared to other treatments.
Isolation and Molecular Identification of Enterobacter cloacae from Pregnant Women with Urinary Tract Infections in Biu, North Eastern Nigeria, Borno State
Authors: Mbula Jummai , Abdulsalami Mohammed Sani , Vantsawa Philip Anthony , Onuh Kingsley , Ozojiofor Ugochukwu Okechukwu , Ayodele Solomon Bolarinwa , Okpaga Ume Austine , Onuh Kenneth , Oyong Imelda Ada
Published: April 2023

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) represent a significant, widespread, and expensive public health issue owing to their high frequency and the associated health challenges on pregnant women. This study aimed to isolate, molecularly identify Enterobacter cloacae strains from pregnant women with Urinary tract infections in some General Hospitals in Biu, Borno State. A total of 250 vaginal swabs from pregnant women who attended Antenatal Care Unit whose age ranges from 15 to 45 years were recruited using a well-designed questionnaire by random sampling technique. Gram-staining, culture, and wet microscopy were employed to check the presence of bacterial pathogens in the samples. Polymerase Chain Reaction was carried out to further validate the results. The degree of relatedness of the organism was determined using NCBI software. The result revealed that 167 representing 66.8% of the total samples studied showed significant bacterial growth. The ascending order of the percentage of the bacterial agents isolated include: Enterobacter cloacae 47 (28.1%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 36 (21.6%), Escherichia coli 23 (13.8%), Proteus mirabillis 19 (11.4%), Staphylococcus epidermis 15 (9.0%), Staphylococcus aureus14 (8.3%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 13 (7.8%). The result of the demographic factors showed that 17 (36.2%) of pregnant women infected within the age of 15–20 years had Enterobacter cloacae. Illiterate pregnant women were 19 (40.4%), unemployed pregnant women were 29 (61.7%), those in their third trimester (27-40 weeks) were 24 (51.1%), women who had 7 and above pregnancies 25 (53.2%), symptomatic and asymptomatic pregnant women within the age of 15–20 years 19 (40.4%), and rural dwellers 33 (70.2%). This study also demonstrated culture technique as the best biochemical method for isolation of bacterial agents compared to wet mount and microscopic Gram-staining isolation method. It can be concluded that there is a 66.8% prevalence of Enterobacter cloacae in Biu LGA of Borno State.
Out of Pocket Expenditure on Hypertension among Patients Attending at Tanta University Hospitals
Authors: Abdelkarem Amira Ahmed , El-Kafas El-Sayed Abd El-Rahman , Kabbash Ibrahim Ali , Abuzeid Mohammed Salama
Published: April 2023

Aims: Determine the level of out-of-pocket expenditure incurred by hypertensive patients at Tanta University Hospitals. Identify different determinants of out-of-pocket health expenditure among hypertensive patients in Tanta University Hospitals.

Study Design:  A cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted from July 2020 up to July 2022, at Tanta University Hospitals, Cardiovascular medicine department.

Methodology: Collection of data was conducted by a questionnaire-based interview. The study included 195 hypertensive patients attending outpatient clinics. Their ages ranged from 36.0 to 75.0 years old. Males represented 57.4% while females’ percentage was 42.6%. Expenditure was estimated over the last three months, then the monthly average was calculated.

Results: All included patients incurred out of pocket expenditure on medications. Their cost had a mean of 550.4±325.0 and ranged from 45 L.E up to 1215.0 L.E. As regards outpatient visits’ cost, more two third of the patients (69.2%) incurred cost for physicians’ visits with a mean of 98.1±80.6 and ranged from 50.0 L.E. Concerning investigations’ cost, (61.0%) of the study patients incurred investigations’ cost that ranged from 65.0 to 150.0 with a mean of 115.0±21.8 L.E. Overall direct OOP expenditure had a mean of 682.4±283.8 with a markedly wide range from 60.0 to 1550 L.E. Regarding the factors affecting the incidence of catastrophic health expenditure, those who were unemployed, or housewives represented had the highest level of CHE (70.3%) with a statistically significant differences in CHE regarding the employment status (p=.001). Patients without regular fixed income had higher CHE (58.9%) than patients with regular monthly salary (16.7%) with a statistically significant difference (p=.001).

Conclusion: Hypertensive patients incur substantial direct and indirect costs. High rates of catastrophic costs illustrate the urgency of improving financial risk protection of these patients and strengthening primary care to ensure affordability of hypertension care.
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for the Management of Recurrent Clostridium Difficile Infections: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nwankwo Chinanu Ihuoma , Yousaf Salman , Oboli Victor N , Sharaf Farzeen , Khalid Komal Naz , Erhiawarie Franca , Tejere Ejiroghene , Latif Aqsa , Chioma Ogochukwu Ekpeleamaka , Ikekpeazu Chidinma Vivian , Rahim Omar , Nazam Imtiaz , Balogun Toluwani , Chukwuneta Chidera Precious , Ndubuisi Chinonso
Published: April 2023

Background: Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a promising therapeutic option for managing Clostridium difficile infections (CDI). CDI is a significant health concern, particularly in antibiotic-resistant cases impairing the quality of life among the patient population. This systematic review aims to pool current clinical trial evidence of FMT (RBX2660) success rates when used for recurrent CDI in the clinical trial setting.

Methods: In accordance with PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines, the following databases were systematically searched: Embase, PubMed, and Scopus. There were no time or language restrictions. The following keywords were used in all the databases: fecal, microbiota, transplantation, recurrent, Clostridium difficile, infection, and antibiotic-resistant. Only clinical trials, controlled or single-arm, were included in this systematic review.

Results: A total of five clinical trials, of which four were phase II, and one was phase III, were included. Seven hundred ninety-five participants were pooled across all trials. Patients were included in the trials with 1-2 recurrent CDI. In most cases, they had undergone standard antibiotic therapy before enrolling. The treatment success rate in the RBX2660 intervention group was 69.5% (335/482) compared to 49.6% (123/248) in the placebo group. The intervention was safe and effective, with no grade III or higher adverse events reported in treating recurrent CDI.

Conclusion: RBX2660, recently approved as a therapy for recurrent CDI in the United States, is a significant milestone in expanding treatment options. This study reports the potential benefits of FMT and other microbiota-based therapies. While many challenges require addressing, including sample control and patient compliance, FMT is heading toward ongoing acceptance in the broad medical community.
Comparative Study of the Prevalence of Syphilis among Pregnant Women and Prospective Blood Donors in Ekiti State, South Western Nigeria
Authors: Ibijola A. A. , Ajayi O. D. , Onyema M. I. , Adebayo A. , Muhibi M. A. , Obazee Y. , Okunlola A. I. , Ajetunmobi O. A. , Yusuf M. , Onyema C. E. , Ajetunmobi W. A. , Bolaji O. B. , Ogundare E. O. , Babatola A. O. , Adebara I. O. , Adeyemo O. T. , Adewara O. E. , Awoyinka B. S. , Bakare A. , Adeniyi A. A. , Ayankunle O. M. , Aduloju O. P. , Adefisan A. S. , Olofinbiyi B. A. , Jeremiah Z. A. , Fasakin K. A.
Published: April 2023

Background: Syphilis is a highly contagious, systemic bacterial illness that poses a serious public health threat on a worldwide scale. In addition to being spread sexually, the illness can also be contracted through blood donation. To accurately evaluate the epidemiological pattern and community impact of the disease, this research sought to ascertain the seroprevalence of syphilis among pregnant women and potential blood donors. In Ekiti State, southwest Nigeria, a comparative study was conducted to determine the frequency of syphilis among expectant mothers and potential blood donors.

Materials and Methods: For this comparison research, which was conducted over a 12-month span, 370 potential blood donors and 300 antenatal enrolees were both selected. After   getting   each   participant's   full   permission, a   questionnaire   comprising   socio-demographic data was given, and 5 ml of whole blood was drawn by venepuncture into an EDTA bottle. Within seconds, plasma was extracted into a clear receptacle using spinning at 2500g for 5 minutes. ELISA-based fast test tools from Diaspot and Lab Acon were used to find Treponema pallidum. Each sample's reactivity to the two test instruments was read as a positive result, while each sample's lack of reactivity was interpreted as a negative result.

Results: Syphilis seroprevalence among expectant mothers was 2.0% and 0% among female blood donors. Male blood donors had a syphilis seroprevalence of 2.1%, which was comparable to the seroprevalence of 2.0% observed in expectant women.

Conclusion: The screening   of potential   blood   donors   and pregnant women   for syphilis must be required, available, and cheap as this will improve early detection of the disease for   proper   therapy.  There   is   a   significant   correlation   between   syphilis   infection   and pregnancy and blood donors.
Strength and Deformational Characteristics of Concrete Beams Reinforced with Steel Bars Locally Produced from Recycled Metal Scrap in Ghana
Authors: Junior John K. Quarm , Kankam Charles K. , Tudagbe-Obuor Prosper , Akortia Vincent K. , Banini Emmanuel K. , Biney Evans , Adzakey Peter K. , Dzivenu Christopher Kofi
Published: April 2023

This study was conducted to examine the structural behavior of concrete beams reinforced with local steel bars available in Ghana. The concrete was prepared from conventional materials of ordinary Portland-limestone cement, pit sand and granitic stones. Steel bars of sizes 12mm, 10mm, and 8mm from different millers used to reinforce the concrete beams were tested to study the stress-strain relationship of the bars. The main reinforcing steel bars in the concrete beams comprised 12mm high tensile and 12mm mild steel bars produced by four different companies. The four companies from which these steel bars were obtained are Ferro Fabric Limited (FFL), United Steel Company (USC), Sentuo Steel Limited (STS) and Fabrimetal (FAB). The specific objectives of this study were to determine the actual strength and sizes of steel bars used to reinforce concrete (steel bars of nominal sizes 12mm, 10mm and 8mm from different millers), to study the stress- strain relationship of the bars, to study the ultimate limit state characteristics of beams reinforced with different bars and to investigate the deformational behaviour of concrete beams reinforced with different bars (i.e., cracking, deflection).

 Data collected were analyzed using theoretical and experimental approaches. The experimental results confirmed theoretical analysis that indicated that governing failure loads of the beams were due to steel yielding first with the exception of one beam in which the governing failure load was by shear. On average the experimental cracking and failure loads in the beams reinforced with high-yield steel bars were slightly higher than the theoretical loads, while they were observed to be slightly lower in the beams reinforced with mild steel bars. With regard to cracking, the beam reinforced with FFL ribbed mild steel developed the highest number of cracks at failure which represent a very good bonding between steel and concrete as compared to the other companies. Beams reinforced with FAB high-yield steel had the highest failure load as compared to the other steels. It is important to ensure standardization of the rebars in the Ghanaian market such as the size of the bar, the rib spacing, and the rib height through the dissemination of information to stakeholders including structural and material engineering manufacturing companies and contractors.
Teaching Practices in Teacher Education Departments as a Factor of Professional Development of Teacher Candidates: A Proposed Project
Authors: Evangelou Filippos , Fykaris Ioannis
Published: April 2023

The Teaching Practice (TP) of teacher candidates is a key factor in their professional development. On this basis, this paper seeks to highlight the role of TP in the professional development of teacher candidates, the main characteristics of TP and the basic models of TP, which are applied internationally in Teacher Education Departments. The implementation methodology of the proposed TP project is based on the combination of the following three models: the partnership and collaborative learning model, the reflective learning model and the pedagogical content knowledge focused model. Based on these parameters, the novelty of this paper is the structuring of a proposal of a TP project for teacher candidates, which results from their direct and experiential activation in the teaching and learning process of formal education. The proposed plan includes the following four stages of implementation: i) Observation of three classroom days where the teacher candidates will teach, ii) Lesson planning in collaboration with the TP academic supervisor, iii) Implementation of lessons by the teacher candidates over a period of fifteen teaching days in the TP implementing schools, iv) Evaluation/reflection on campus of University after the TP in the TP implementing schools.
Linear ubiquitination‐induced necrotic tumor remodeling elicits immune evasion
Authors: Sasaki Katsuhiro , Hayamizu Yoshie , Murakami Ryuji , Toi Masakazu , Iwai Kazuhiro
Published: April 2023

Tumor‐elicited inflammation confers tumorigenic properties, including cell death resistance, proliferation, or immune evasion. To focus on inflammatory signaling in tumors, we investigated linear ubiquitination, which enhances the nuclear factor‐κB signaling pathway and prevents extrinsic programmed cell death under inflammatory environments. Here, we showed that linear ubiquitination was augmented especially in tumor cells around a necrotic core. Linear ubiquitination allowed melanomas to tolerate the hostile tumor microenvironment and to extend a necrosis‐containing morphology. Loss of linear ubiquitination resulted in few necrotic lesions and growth regression, further leading to repression of innate anti‐PD‐1 therapy resistance signatures in melanoma as well as activation of interferon responses and antigen presentation that promote immune‐mediated tumor eradication. Collectively, linear ubiquitination promotes tumor‐specific tissue remodeling and the ensuing immune evasion.
Yeast Puf3p‐mediated mRNA decay is regulated by carbon source‐specific differential interaction of Puf3p with Pop2p and Yak1p
Authors: Bulmash Ariel S. , Fischer Anthony D. , Russo Joseph , Mueller Shayna M. , Olivas Wendy M.
Published: April 2023

Puf3p regulates the stability of nuclear‐encoded mRNAs acting in mitochondrial biogenesis and function in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This work identifies the phosphorylation of Pop2p, a component of the deadenylase complex, as being critical for adapting Puf3p‐mediated mRNA decay upon carbon source alterations. We demonstrate that the Puf3p–Pop2p association diminishes in mitochondria‐reliant conditions and establish Yak1p, a kinase that phosphorylates Pop2p at threonine 97, as a new player in Puf3p‐mediated regulation of mRNA decay. Yak1p deletion alters the half‐life of Puf3p target mRNAs. Our findings outline a metabolism‐driven regulatory switch, whereby, in mitochondria‐independent conditions, Puf3p recruits Pop2p and the decay machinery to bound mRNAs for rapid decay. Conversely, in mitochondria‐reliant conditions, the association of Puf3p with Yak1p increases, placing Yak1p proximal to neighboring Pop2p. Subsequent Pop2p phosphorylation reduces the Puf3p–Pop2p interaction and stabilizes Puf3p target mRNAs.
Clinical profile of autoimmune nodopathy with anti‐neurofascin 186 antibody
Authors: Liu Bingyou , Zhou Lei , Sun Chong , Wang Longjie , Zheng Yongsheng , Hu Bin , Qiao Kai , Zhao Chongbo , Lu Jiahong , Lin Jie
Published: April 2023

Objective

Nodal/paranodal autoantibodies identified a group of peripheral neuropathies independent from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). However, nodopathy with antibody against neurofascin 186 (NF186) was rarely reported. We presented a cohort of patients with anti‐NF186 antibody and described the clinical profile of them.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 195 patients diagnosed with CIDP and immune mediated idiopathic neuropathies were enrolled. Cell‐based assay was used to screen anti‐NF186 and anti‐NF155 antibodies in serum samples. Teased‐fiber immunofluorescence were used as a confirmatory assay. Clinical data of seropositive patients were collected and analyzed.

Results

Among the patients with anti‐NF186 antibody, seven patients (58.3%) presented acute or subacute disorder onset. Four patients (33.3%) were found to have asymmetric weakness or numbness. Distal weakness and/or numbness was the core feature. Sensory ataxia, tremor and central nervous system demyelination were rarely observed. Nerve conduction studies revealed predominant demyelinating with/without axonal loss. Brachial plexus MRI was normal in the majority of patients (6/7, 85.7%). Five patients (5/9, 55.6%) showed response to intravenous immunoglobulin. Eight patients (8/10, 80.0%) improved after corticosteroids. All patients (3/3,100%) responded to rituximab.

Interpretation

In the study, we depicted the clinical profile of nodopathy with anti‐NF186 antibody. The diversity of clinical features, electrophysiology results and pathological findings was specific in nodopathy with anti‐NF186 antibody. Screening of autoantibody against NF186 in acute‐onset neuropathy is recommended.
Improved Mean Value‐Amplitude Method for Determination of Orientation‐Dependent Modulus of Short Fiber‐Reinforced Thermoplastics
Authors: Hausmann Joachim , Schmidt Stefan , Esha
Published: April 2023

Short fiber‐reinforced thermoplastics such as 30% by weight glass fiber‐reinforced polyamide 46 (PA46GF30) are considered as substitute material for lightweight metallic parts. Despite the short fiber length, a distinct fiber orientation caused by local shear flow conditions during injection molding is obtained. This results in anisotropic material properties, which should be considered in the design phase of a component. Material properties are obtained by mechanical testing, e.g., tensile tests of specimens. These specimens have their own inherent microstructure consisting of different layers with different fiber orientations. The recently proposed mean value‐amplitude method enables the correlation of the Young's modulus to the eigenvalues of the fiber orientation tensor. The study presented herein applies a physically based improvement of the mean value‐amplitude method by consideration of the real fiber length. The results are very accurate for the description of the anisotropic material behavior and can be implemented in simulation tools for component design very easily.
Bulk Embedding of Ferroelectric Nanodomains in CuBi2O4 Photocathodes Enables Boosted Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Xu Youxun , Jian Jie , Su Guirong , Liu Wei , Wang Shiyuan , Shuang Yazhou , Li Fan , Jia Lichao , Friedrich Dennis , van de Krol Roel , Wang Hongqiang
Published: April 2023

It is widely accepted that metal oxide‐based photoelectrodes (MOPs) hold great promise for future solar hydrogen generation but are facing awkward challenge arising from their low intrinsic carrier mobility. The highly polarized nature of the predominantly ionic metal‐oxygen bond always leads to the formation of small polarons that are responsible for the localized trapping of photo‐generated carriers. Present study explores the reduction of carriers transport barrier via bulk embedding of ferroelectric nanodomains (FNDs) in MOPs that results in a new performance benchmark for the CuBi2O4 photocathode. By embedding laser‐generated sub‐10 nm BaTiO3 nanocrystals in the bulk of CuBi2O4 photocathode, numerous FNDs are created that can lead to two times enhancement of the carrier mobility, which is proposed to originate from the overlaying of the internal electric fields and effective electrons transport channel at the heterointerfaces of BaTiO3/CuBi2O4. Such strategy leads to the CuBi2O4 photocathode with the photocurrent density of up to 3.21 mA cm−2 at 0.6 VRHE, as well as a pronounced absorbed photon‐to‐current efficiency up to 80% at 400 nm. The universal feature of present technology is further verified by laser embedding of SrTiO3 FNDs, providing an effective route for addressing the charge transport limitations in MOPs.
Relay Catalysis of Multi‐Sites Promotes Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Luo Xuan , Wu Wenkun , Wang Youheng , Li Yuyang , Ye Jinyu , Wang Haoyu , Jiang Qiaorong , Zhou Zhiyou , Li Yuguang C. , Wang Yucheng , Sun Shigang
Published: April 2023

The two‐electron pathway to form hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is undesirable for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in iron and nitrogen doped carbon (Fe–N–C) material as it not only lowers the catalytic efficiency but also impairs the catalyst durability. In this study, a relay catalysis pathway is designed to minimize the two‐electron selectivity of Fe–N–C catalyst. Such a design is achieved by introducing two other sites, that is, MnN4 site and α‐Fe(110) face. A combination of transmission electron microscopy image and X‐ray absorption spectra verify the three site formation. Electrochemical test coupled with post‐treatment confirm the improvement of MnN4 site and α‐Fe(110) face on catalyst performance. Theoretical calculation proposes a relay catalysis pathway of three sites, that is, H2O2 released from the FeN4 site migrates to the MnN4 site or α‐Fe(110) face, on which the captive H2O2 is further reduced to H2O. The relay catalysis pathway positioned the as‐prepared catalyst among the best ORR catalysts in both aqueous electrode and alkaline direct methanol fuel cell test. This study examples an interesting relay catalysis pathway of multi‐sites for the ORR, which offers insights into the design of efficient electrocatalysts for fuel cells or beyond.
Response and Regulation of the Microenvironment Based on Hollow Structured Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Zhao Decai , Wei Yanze , Xiong Jing , Gao Chunsheng , Wang Dan
Published: April 2023

Hollow structured materials with easily modifiable surfaces and enclosed interior spaces have emerged as the most promising candidates in drug delivery systems (DDS). With various functional components and inspiring cavities for creative reinvention, the response and regulation of the external and internal microenvironment of hollow structures enable their ideal drug delivery capabilities by improving drug aggregation in targeted sites and maintaining plasma concentrations at the optimal therapeutic ranges. This review begins with an in‐depth explanation of the interactions and release mechanisms of hollow structure‐based DDS, including diffusion, assembly, solvent activation, and chemical control, all of which are of great significance for the design of smart drug carriers. Next, recent advances in external microenvironment‐responsive drug delivery systems are introduced, based on various chemical signals and external field assists. Focusing on the unique view of intra‐carrier variability, the strategies for regulating the internal environment are then highlighted, including pH regulation, temperature regulation, and mechanical force regulation. Finally, this review discusses possible challenges and prospects for hollow structure‐based, particularly hollow multishelled structures intelligence‐responsive drug delivery platforms, providing valuable strategies for the development of the next generation of responsive DDS.
Fully Recyclable, Healable, Soft, and Stretchable Dynamic Polymers for Magnetic Soft Robots
Authors: Zhu Guangda , Hou Yi , Xia Neng , Wang Xin , Zhang Chong , Zheng Jianzhong , Jin Dongdong , Zhang Li
Published: April 2023

Magnetic soft robots capable of wirelessly controlled programmable deformation and locomotion are desirable for diverse applications. Such multi‐variable actuation ideally requires a polymer matrix with a well‐defined range of softness and stretchability (Young's modulus of 0.1–10 MPa, high stretchability >200%). However, this defined mechanical range excludes most polymer candidates, leaving only a limited number of available polymers (e.g., PDMS, Ecoflex) with covalently cross‐linked networks that may lead to non‐recyclable robots and further potential threats to environment. Herein, based on the synergistic effects of reduced cross‐linking density and intermolecular hydrogen bonding, a dynamic covalent polyimine is newly designed as polymer matrix and magnetic microparticles as fillers, and integrate defined softness and stretchability, full chemical recyclability, rapid room‐temperature healability and multimodal actuation into a single magnetic soft robot. The polyimine is soft and stretchable enough to process soft robots in various geometries by simple laser cutting, without the need to pre‐design the geometry to suit target scenarios. Through a cyclic depolymerization/repolymerization, this full recycling restores 100% of the robots’ mechanical properties and rapid deformability/mobility to their original level within seconds and heals quickly within minutes when damaged, facilitating ideal cyclic material economy for soft robots in diverse scenarios.
Double Doping of Semiconducting Polymers Using Ion‐Exchange with a Dianion
Authors: Yuan Dafei , Plunkett Evan , Nguyen Phong H. , Rawlings Dakota , Le My Linh , Kroon Rene , Müller Christian , Segalman Rachel A. , Chabinyc Michael L.
Published: April 2023

The interactions between counterions and electronic carriers in electrically doped semiconducting polymers are important for delocalization of charge carriers, electronic conductivity, and thermal stability. The introduction of a dianions in semiconducting polymers leads to double doping where there is one counterion for two charge carriers. Double doping minimizes structural distortions, but changes the electrostatic interactions between the carriers and counterions. Polymeric ionic liquids (PIL) with croconate dianions are helpful to investigate the role of the counterion in p‐type semiconducting polymers. PILs prevent diffusion of the cation into the semiconducting polymers during ion exchange. The redox‐active croconate dianions undergo ion exchange with doped semiconducting polymers depending on their ionization energy. Croconate dianions are found to reduce doped films of poly(3‐hexyl thiophene), but undergo ion exchange with a polythiophene with tetraethylene glycol side chains, P(g42T‐T), that has a lower ionization energy. The croconate dianion maintains crystalline order in P(g42T‐T) and leads to a lower activation energy for the electrical conductivity than PF6− counterions. The control of the doping level with croconate allows optimization of the thermoelectric performance of the semiconducting polymer. The thermal stability of the doped films of P(g42T‐T) is found to depend strongly on the nature of the counterion.
A Versatile Platform for the Tumor‐Targeted Intracellular Delivery of Peptides, Proteins, and siRNA
Authors: Yang Yifan , Zhu Haichao , Liu Dingkang , Luo Hong , Chang Ruilong , Ji Yue , Yao Wenbing , Yin Jun , Gao Xiangdong
Published: April 2023

The efficient delivery of biologics into cells provide unique opportunities to modulate intracellular targets not druggable by conventional small molecules. The supercharged polypeptide (SCP) has become a novel intracellular delivery system due to their special advantages, including enhanced delivery efficiency and serum tolerance. However, owing to their cationic charge and non‐specificity characteristics, the in vivo application of SCP is limited. Here, an activatable SCP (ASCP) with a pH‐sensitive charge shielding sequence (CSS), a protease cleavage site, and SCP are engineered. This system shows the potential to reduce the non‐specific binding and effectively deliver various cargo (peptide, protein, small molecule, and siRNA) into the cytosol not only in vitro but also in vivo. Furthermore, an ASCP fusion protein is designed to co‐delivery of peptide (KLA)/siRNA (IKBKE) with different tumorigenesis pathways to triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) for optimal therapeutic outcomes. It is believed that ASCP delivery system will facilitate the development of bioactive molecules for use against intracellular targets. This simple yet versatile delivery system can also pave the way for the co‐delivery of multiple therapeutic cargos to address the emerging needs of combination cancer therapy.
Achieving Ultrahigh Electron Mobility in PdSe2 Field‐Effect Transistors via Semimetal Antimony as Contacts
Authors: Wang Zhenping , Ali Nasir , Ngo Tien Dat , Shin Hoseong , Lee Sungwon , Yoo Won Jong
Published: April 2023

Even though atomically thin 2D semiconductors have shown great potential for next‐generation electronics, the low carrier mobility caused by poor metal–semiconductor contacts and the inherently high density of impurity scatterings remains a critical issue. Herein, high‐mobility field‐effect transistors (FETs) by introducing few‐layer PdSe2 flakes as channels is achieved, via directly depositing semimetal antimony (Sb) as drain–source electrodes. The formation of clean and defect‐free van der Waals (vdW) stackings at the Sb–PdSe2 heterointerfaces boosts the room temperature transport characteristics, including low contact resistance down to 0.55 kΩ µm, high on‐current density reaching 96 µA µm−1, and high electron mobility of 383 cm2 V−1 s−1. Furthermore, metal–insulator transition (MIT) is observed in the PdSe2 FETs with and without hexagonal boron nitride (h–BN) as buffer layers. However, the layered h–BN/PdSe2 vdW stacking eliminates the interference of interfacial disorders, and thus the corresponding device exhibits a lower MIT crossing point, larger mobility exponent of γ ∼ 1.73, significantly decreased hopping parameter of T0, and ultrahigh electron mobility of 2,184 cm2 V−1 s−1 at 10 K. These findings are expected to be significant for developing high mobility 2D‐based quantum devices.
Application of Artificial Intelligence to In Vitro Tumor Modeling and Characterization of the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Lee Ren Yuan , Wu Yang , Goh Denise , Tan Verlyn , Ng Chan Way , Lim Jeffrey Chun Tatt , Lau Mai Chan , Yeong Joe Poh Sheng
Published: April 2023

In vitro tumor models have played vital roles in enhancing the understanding of the cellular and molecular composition of tumors, as well as their biochemical and biophysical characteristics. Advances in technology have enabled the evolution of tumor models from two‐dimensional cell cultures to three‐dimensional printed tumor models with increased levels of complexity and diverse output parameters. With the increase in complexity, the new generation of models is able to replicate the architecture and heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment more realistically than their predecessors. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has been used extensively in healthcare and research, and AI‐based tools have also been applied to the precise development of tumor models. The incorporation of AI facilitates the use of high‐throughput systems for real‐time monitoring of tumorigenesis and biophysical tumor properties, raising the possibility of using AI alongside tumor modeling for personalized medicine. Here, the integration of AI tools within tumor modeling is reviewed, including microfluidic devices and cancer‐on‐chip models.
Optical Switching of Hole Transfer in Double‐Perovskite/Graphene Heterostructure
Authors: Zhang Heng , Debroye Elke , Fu Shuai , González Miriam C. Rodriguez , du Fossé Indy , Geuchies Jaco J. , Gao Lei , Yu Xiaoqing , Houtepen Arjan J. , De Feyter Steven , Hofkens Johan , Bonn Mischa , Wang Hai I.
Published: April 2023

Synergically combining their respective ultrahigh charge mobility and strong light absorption, graphene (Gr)/semiconductor heterostructures are promising building blocks for efficient optoelectronics, particularly photodetectors. Charge transfer (CT) across the heterostructure interface crucially determines device efficiency and functionality. Here, it is reported that hole‐transfer processes dominate the ultrafast CT across strongly coupled double‐perovskite Cs2AgBiBr6/graphene (DP/Gr) heterostructures following optical excitation. While holes are the primary charges flowing across interfaces, their transfer direction, as well as efficiency, show a remarkable dependence on the excitation wavelength. For excitation with photon energies below the bandgap of DPs, the photoexcited hot holes in Gr can compete with the thermalization process and inject into in‐gap defect states in DPs. In contrast, above‐bandgap excitation of DP reverses the hole‐transfer direction, leading to hole transfer from the valence band of DPs to Gr. Experimental evidence that increasing the excitation photon energy enhances CT efficiency for both below‐ and above‐bandgap photoexcitation regimes is further provided, unveiling the positive role of excess energy in enhancing interfacial CT. The possibility of switching the hole‐transfer direction and thus the interfacial photogating field by tuning the excitation wavelength, provides a novel way to control the interfacial charge flow across a DP/Gr heterojunction.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Depolymerizable δ‐Lactone Based Vitrimers
Authors: Yue Liang , Su Yong‐Liang , Li Mingzhe , Yu Luxia , Montgomery S. Macrae , Sun Xiaohao , Finn M. G. , Gutekunst Will R. , Ramprasad Rampi , Qi H. Jerry
Published: April 2023

A depolymerizable vitrimer that allows both reprocessability and monomer recovery by a simple and scalable one‐pot two‐step synthesis of vitrimers from cyclic lactones is reported. Biobased δ‐valerolactone with alkyl substituents (δ‐lactone) has low ceiling temperature; thus, their ring‐opening‐polymerized aliphatic polyesters are capable of depolymerizing back to monomers. In this work, the amorphous poly(δ‐lactone) is solidified into an elastomer (i.e., δ‐lactone vitrimer) by a vinyl ether cross‐linker with dynamic acetal linkages, giving the merits of reprocessing and healing. Thermolysis of the bulk δ‐lactone vitrimer at 200 °C can recover 85–90 wt% of the material, allowing reuse without losing value and achieving a successful closed‐loop life cycle. It further demonstrates that the new vitrimer has excellent properties, with the potential to serve as a biobased and sustainable replacement of conventional soft elastomers for various applications such as lenses, mold materials, soft robots, and microfluidic devices.
Circadian Clock Regulation via Biomaterials for Nucleus Pulposus
Authors: Chen Wei , Zheng Dandan , Chen Hao , Ye Tingjun , Liu Zhihong , Qi Jin , Shen Hongxing , Ruan Huitong , Cui Wenguo , Deng Lianfu
Published: April 2023

Circadian clock disorder during tissue degeneration has been considered the potential pathogenesis for various chronic diseases, such as intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). In this study, circadian clock‐regulating biomaterials (ClockMPs) that can effectively activate the intrinsic circadian clock of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) in IVDD and improve the physiological function of NPCs for disc regeneration are fabricated via air‐microfluidic technique and the chemical cross‐linking between polyvinyl alcohol and modified‐phenylboronic acid. In vitro experiments verified that ClockMPs can scavenge reactive oxygen species to maintain a stable microenvironment for the circadian clock by promoting the binding of BMAL1 and CLOCK proteins. ClockMPs can regulate the expression of core circadian clock genes by activating the PI3K‐AKT pathway in NPCs to remodel the intrinsic circadian clock and promote extracellular matrix synthesis. Furthermore, in vivo experiments of IVDD treated with ClockMPs proved that ClockMPs can promote disc regeneration by regulating the circadian clock of NPCs. In conclusion, ClockMPs provided a novel and promising strategy for circadian clock regulation during tissue regeneration.
Role of Interfacial Defects on Electro–Chemo–Mechanical Failure of Solid‐State Electrolyte
Authors: Liu Yangyang , Xu Xieyu , Jiao Xingxing , Kapitanova Olesya O. , Song Zhongxiao , Xiong Shizhao
Published: April 2023

High‐stress field generated by electroplating of lithium (Li) in pre‐existing defects is the main reason for mechanical failure of solid‐state electrolyte because it drives crack propagation in electrolyte, followed by Li filament growth inside and even internal short‐circuit if the filament reaches another electrode. To understand the role of interfacial defects on mechanical failure of solid‐state electrolyte, an electro–chemo–mechanical model is built to visualize distribution of stress, relative damage, and crack formation during electrochemical plating of Li in defects. Geometry of interfacial defect is found as dominating factor for concentration of local stress field while semi‐sphere defect delivers less accumulation of damage at initial stage and the longest failure time for disintegration of electrolyte. Aspect ratio, as a key geometric parameter of defect, is investigated to reveal its impact on failure of electrolyte. Pyramidic defect with low aspect ratio of 0.2–0.5 shows branched region of damage near interface, probably causing surface pulverization of solid‐state electrolyte, whereas high aspect ratio over 3.0 will trigger accumulation of damage in bulk electrolyte. The correction between interfacial defect and electro–chemo–mechanical failure of solid‐state electrolyte is expected to provide insightful guidelines for interface design in high‐power‐density solid‐state Li metal batteries.
A Functionalized Heterogeneous Catalyst from Atomically Precise Pd1Au8 Clusters Facilitates Carbon–Carbon Bond Construction
Authors: Cai Xiao , Liu Yong , Li Guangjun , Hu Weigang , Liu Xu , Chen Mingyang , Ding Weiping , Zhu Yan
Published: April 2023

It has become possible to establish a connection between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis with atomically precise metal clusters. Due to their defined coordination geometry, in this work, atomically precise Pd1Au8(PPh3)82+ clusters are exploited to identify the crucial factor that can impact the catalytic efficiency for the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling process and further gain valuable insight into the exclusive cooperative effect of the central Pd atom and the peripheral Au atoms of the Pd1Au8(PPh3)82+ cluster on controlling the cross‐coupling reaction. Specifically, a heterogeneous catalyst, namely Pd1Au8@Resin, is designed by exchanging positively charged Pd1Au8(PPh3)82+ clusters into the porous resin, thereby not only facilitating catalyst recyclability when performed in a batch reactor, but also realizing time‐on‐stream performance for the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction carried out in a fixed‐bed reactor. The integrated advantages of homogeneous complexes and heterogeneous catalysts are expected to advance the usability of atomically precise metal clusters as heterogeneous catalysts for important bond constructions in homogeneous systems.
Wafer‐Scale, Highly Uniform Surface Functionalization from Vapor Phase and Applications to Organic Transistors
Authors: Chen Ming , Li Jie , Piao Yingzhe , Yang Wanli , Li Chun , Wan Yi , Yu Yanhao , Li Lain‐Jong , Guo Xugang , Cheng Xing
Published: April 2023

The surface functionalization by self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) favors well‐packed organic semiconductor growth and reduces interfacial traps, which assists in developing high‐performance organic thin‐film transistors (OTFTs). Herein, the conventional SAM growth from the vapor phase is ameliorated and systematically studied. With 1H,1H,2H,2H‐Perfluorodecyltrichlorosilane as an example, it is found that deposition temperature of no less than 120 °C and deposition pressure of up to 0.02 bar is preferred for SAM deposition without morphological defects. The optimized SAMs are ultrasmooth with a surface roughness of 0.09 nm and can be escalated to wafer scale. It is verified that the growth condition is universal for other trichlorosilane species. Finally, it is shown that the OTFTs with defect‐free SAMs can achieve an average mobility of 1.79 cm2 V−1 s−1 using dinaphtho(2,3‐b:2′,3′‐f)thieno(3,2‐b)thiophene as the active layer, which is 2.06 times to the devices with defective SAMs and paces up the large‐area and high‐performance organic electronics.
Predicting the Excitation Dynamics in Lanthanide Nanoparticles
Authors: Spelthann Simon , Thiem Jonas , Melchert Oliver , Komban Rajesh , Gimmler Christoph , Demicran Ayhan , Ruehl Axel , Ristau Detlev
Published: April 2023

With their dipole‐forbidden 4f transitions, lanthanides doped in nanoparticles promise high excited state lifetimes and quantum yields that are required for applications such as composite lasers or nanoscale quantum memories. Quenching at the nanoparticle surface, however, severely reduces the lifetime and quantum yield and requires resource‐consuming experimental optimization that could not be replaced by simulations due to the limitations of existing approaches until now. Here, a versatile approach is presented that fully accounts for spatiotemporal dynamics and reliably predicts the lifetimes and quantum yields of lanthanide nanoparticles. LiYF4:Pr3+nanoparticles are synthesized as a model system, and the lifetimes of a concentration series (≈10 nm, 0.7−1.47 at%) are used to match the model parameters to the experimental conditions. Employing these parameters, the lifetimes and quantum yields of a size series (≈5 at%, 12−21 nm) are predicted with a maximum uncertainty of 12.6%. To demonstrate the potential of the model, a neutral shell is added around the core particles in the model which extends the lifetime by up to 44%. Furthermore, spatiotemporal analysis of single nanoparticles points toward a new type of energy trapping in lanthanide nanoparticles. Consequently, the numerical optimization brings applications such as efficient nanoparticle lasers or quantum memories within reach.
Synthesis of 1‐Phospho‐3‐benzoxepins via a Silver‐catalyzed Reaction of 2‐Alkynylacetophenones with Diazomethylphosphonates
Authors: She Rui , Qiu Jialin , Liu Yan , Peng Yungui
Published: April 2023

A synthetic protocol for construction of 3‐benzoxepin skeleton through a silver‐catalyzed annulation/nucleophilic/ring‐expansion reaction of 2‐alkynylacetophenones with diazomethylphosphonates is described. This protocol provided a series of 1‐phosphonate‐3‐benzoxepin analogs in yields of 39%–95%. The resulting benzoxepins featuring halogen and phosphonate could be further transformed into other derivatives.

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Differentiating the Allyl and Propargyl Groups on α‐Quaternary Carboxylic Acids via Chiral Bifunctional Sulfide‐Catalyzed Kinetic Resolution
Authors: Okuno Ken , Chan Bun , Shirakawa Seiji
Published: April 2023

Catalytic kinetic resolution of racemic organic compounds is a reliable method to enantioselectively prepare important chiral molecules. Substrates for the kinetic resolution, however, generally required significantly different substituents at a chiral center. Catalytic kinetic resolution of racemic molecules possessing two similar substituents at a chiral center has remained a formidable challenge. In this context, we became interested in the catalytic kinetic resolution of racemic compounds bearing both allyl and propargyl groups, which are similar but useful substituents, at a chiral center. Herein, we report a kinetic resolution of α‐allyl‐α‐propargyl carboxylic acids bearing an all‐carbon quaternary stereocenter via chiral bifunctional sulfide‐catalyzed bromolactonization. The synthetic utility of the resultant optically active compounds obtained via kinetic resolution was also demonstrated.

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