bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Synthetic Oligosaccharide Resembling Francisella tularensis Strain 15 O‐Antigen Capsular Polysaccharide as a Lead for Tularemia Diagnostics and Therapeutics
Authors: Pradhan Kabita , Reuber Emelie E. , Sletten Eric T. , Tomaso Herbert , Seeberger Peter H.
Published: October 2024

Francisella tularensis, a category A bioterrorism agent, causes tularemia in many animal species. F. tularensis subspecies tularensis (type A) and holarctica (type B) are mainly responsible for human tularemia. The high mortality rate of 30–60 % caused by F. tularensis subspecies tularensis if left untreated and the aerosol dispersal renders this pathogen a dangerous bioagent. While a live attenuated vaccine strain (LVS) of F. tularensis type B does not provide sufficient protection against all forms of tularemia infections, a significant level of protection against F. tularensis has been observed for both passive and active immunization of mice with isolated O‐antigen capsular polysaccharide. Well‐defined, synthetic oligosaccharides offer an alternative approach towards the development of glycoconjugate vaccines. To identify diagnostics and therapeutics leads against tularemia, a collection of F. tularensis strain 15 O‐antigen capsular polysaccharide epitopes were chemically synthesized. Glycan microarrays containing synthetic glycans were used to analyze the sera of tularemia‐infected and non‐infected animals and revealed the presence of IgG antibodies against the glycans. Two disaccharide (13 and 18), both bearing a unique formamido moiety, were identified as minimal glycan epitopes for antibody binding. These epitopes are the starting point for the development of diagnostics and therapeutics against tularemia.
Upcycling of Polyamide Wastes to Tertiary Amines Using Mo Single Atoms and Rh Nanoparticles
Authors: Tang Minhao , Shen Ji , Zhang Fengtao , Zhao Yanfei , Gan Tao , Zeng Wei , Li Rongxiang , Wang Dingsheng , Han Buxing , Liu Zhimin
Published: October 2024

The pursuit of sustainable practices through the chemical recycling of polyamide wastes holds significant potential, particularly in enabling the recovery of a range of nitrogen‐containing compounds. Herein, we report a novel strategy to upcycle polyamide wastes to tertiary amines with the assistance of H2 in acetic acid under mild conditions (e.g., 180 °C), which is achieved over anatase TiO2 supported Mo single atoms and Rh nanoparticles. In this protocol, the polyamide is first converted into diacetamide intermediates via acidolysis, which are subsequently hydrogenated into corresponding carboxylic acid monomers and tertiary amines in 100 % selectivity. It is verified that Mo single atoms and Rh nanoparticles work together to activate both amide bonds of the diacetamide intermediate, and synergistically catalyze its hydrodeoxygenation to form tertiary amine, but this catalyst is ineffective for hydrogenation of carboxylic acid. This work presents an effective way to reconstruct various polyamide wastes into tertiary amines and carboxylic acids, which may have promising application potential.
Cross‐Linkable Fullerene Electron Transport Layer with Internal Encapsulation Capability for Efficient and Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Hou Enlong , Cheng Shuo , Qiu Yujue , Chen Xingyu , Chen Jingfu , Sun Chao , Zhang Hui , Yang Jinxin , Zhao Xinjing , Xie Liqiang , Chen Zuochang , Tian Chengbo , Wei Zhanhua
Published: October 2024

A stable and compact fullerene electron transport layer (ETL) is crucial for high‐performance inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, traditional fullerene‐based ETLs like C60 and PCBM are prone to aggregate under operational conditions, a challenge recently recognized by academic and industrial researchers. Here, we designed and synthesized a novel cross‐linkable fullerene molecule, bis((3‐methyloxetan‐3‐yl)methyl) malonate‐C60 monoadduct (BCM), for use as an ETL in PSCs. Upon a low‐temperature annealing at 100 °C, BCM undergoes in situ cross‐linking to form a robust cross‐linked BCM (CBCM) film, which demonstrates excellent electron mobility and a suitable band structure for efficient PSCs. Our results show that PSCs incorporating CBCM‐based ETL achieve an impressive efficiency of 25.89 % (certified: 25.36 %), significantly surpassing the 23.25 % efficiency of PCBM‐based devices. The intramolecular covalent interactions within CBCM films effectively prevent aggregation and enhance film compactness, creating an internal encapsulation layer that mitigates the decomposition and ion migration of perovskite components. Consequently, CBCM‐based PSCs show exceptional stability, maintaining 97.8 % of their initial efficiency after 1000 hours of maximum power point tracking, compared to only 78.6 % retention in PCBM‐based devices after less than 820 hours.
Sustaining 500,000 Folding Cycles Through Bioinspired Stress Dispersion Design in Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Pu Shu , Zan Guangtao , Zhou Hongmin , Dong Kangze , Mao Xiaoge , Wu Qingsheng , Wu Tong
Published: October 2024

Developing super‐foldable electronic materials and devices presents a significant challenge, as intrinsic conductive materials are unable to achieve numerous true‐folding operations (super‐foldable) due to limitations from short‐range forces of chemical bonds. Consequently, super‐foldable batteries remain unexplored. This work focused on sodium‐ion batteries as a breakthrough point to advance super‐foldable devices. By employing a “2+1” bioinspired strategy, we stepwise designed and assembled super‐foldable components, from substrates to electrodes, and to ultimately device. This bioinspired approach completely disperses folding stress and thus prevents the breakage of chemical bonds, enabling the successful fabrication of the first super‐foldable ion battery. This battery can withstand true‐folding at any angle, in any direction, and for an unprecedented number of cycles—far outperforming current foldable phones with hinge structures. Remarkably, after 500,000 true‐folding cycles, the battery's microstructure remains intact with no significant degradation of electrochemical performance. Real‐time dynamic folding observations reveal an M‐shaped folding structure within the bioinspired materials, which effectively disperses stress via bulged layers, dispersed arcs, and slidable microgrooves that work together across different directions and dimensions to achieve super‐foldability. Mechanical simulations vividly verify this principle. This work represents a breakthrough in super‐foldable devices, offering valuable insights and promoting practical application for future super‐foldable devices.
A Novel Anion Receptor Additive for −40 °C Sodium Metal Batteries by Anion/Cation Solvation Engineering
Authors: Li Meng , Jiang Jinlong , Chen Ying , Huang Shoushuang , Liu Xiaoyu , Yi Jin , Jiang Yong , Zhao Bing , Li Wenrong , Sun Xueliang , Zhang Jiujun
Published: October 2024

Sodium metal batteries, known for their high theoretical specific capacity, abundant reserves, and promising low‐temperature performance, have garnered significant attention. However, the large ionic radius of Na+ and sluggish transport kinetics across the interfacial structure hinder their practical application. Previous reviews have rarely regulated electrolyte performance from the perspective of anions, as important components of the electrolyte, the regulation mechanism is not well understood. Herein, a novel anion receptor additive, 4‐aminophenylboronic acid pinacol ester (ABAPE), is proposed to weaken the coupling between anions and cations and accelerate Na+ transport kinetics. The results of theoretical calculations and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy with deep Ar‐ion etching demonstrate that the introduction of this additive alters the solvation structure of Na+, reduces the desolvation barrier and forms a stable and dense electrode‐electrolyte interface. Moreover, ABAPE forms hydrogen bonds (−NH ⋅ ⋅ ⋅ O/F) with H2O/HF, effectively preventing the hydrolysis of NaPF6 and stabilizing acidic species. Consequently, the Na||Na symmetric cell exhibits excellent long‐cycle performance of 500 h at 1 mA cm−2 and 0.5 mAh cm−2. The Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) cell with the addition of ABAPE maintains a capacity retention of 84.29 % at 1 C after 1200 cycles and presents no capacity decay over 150 cycles at −40 °C.
Polysilaketals: High‐Performance Polyether‐Based Electrolytes with Tunable Disubstituted Silane Linkers
Authors: Rugh Haley J. , Lee Jaeyong , Sun Chenyue , Abdo Emily E. , Bem Juliana N. , Balsara Nitash P. , Coates Geoffrey W.
Published: October 2024

Polymer electrolytes exhibit higher energy density and improved safety in lithium‐ion batteries relative to traditionally used liquid electrolytes but are currently limited by their lower electrochemical performance. Aiming to access polymer electrolytes with competitive electrochemical properties, we developed the anionic ring‐opening polymerization (AROP) of cyclic silaketals to synthesize amorphous silicon‐containing polyether‐based electrolytes with varying substituent bulk of the general formula [OSi(R)2(CH2CH2O)2]n (R=alkyl, phenyl). As opposed to previously reported uncontrolled polycondensation routes toward low molecular weight polysilaketals, AROP allows access to targeted molecular weights above the entanglement threshold of the polymers. The polysilaketal with the lowest steric bulk (P(OSiMe,Me‐2EO)) exceeds the conductivity of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), a leading polymer electrolyte. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first solid polymer electrolyte to achieve this benchmark. Steric bulk in polysilaketals was found to impart stability and two bulkier polysilaketals, P(OSiEt,Et‐2EO) and P(OSiMe,Ph‐2EO), exhibited higher current fractions than PEO over a wide range of salt loadings. Moreover, the efficacy of P(OSiEt,Et‐2EO) was competitive with that of PEO. Taken together, the tunable and competitive electrochemical properties of polysilaketals validate the systematic incorporation of silyl groups as a strategy to access high performance polymer electrolytes.
Prompting CO2 Electroreduction to Ethanol by Iron Group Metal Ion Dopants Induced Multi‐sites at the Interface of SnSe/SnSe2 p–n Heterojunction
Authors: Zheng Xinyue , Hu Yan , Wang Xiangyu , Zhu Jiahui , Zhang Xingyue , Sheng Tian , Wu Zhengcui
Published: October 2024

The development of non‐copper‐based materials for CO2 electroreduction to ethanol with high selectivity at large current density is highly desirable, but still a great challenge. Herein, we report iron group metal ions of M2+ (M=Fe, Co, or Ni)‐doped amorphous/crystalline SnSe/SnSe2 nanorod/nanosheet hierarchical structures (a/c‐SnSe/SnSe2) for selective CO2 electroreduction to ethanol. Iron group metal ions doping induces multiple active sites at the interface of M2+‐doped SnSe/SnSe2 p‐n heterojunction, which strengthens *CO intermediate binding for further C−C coupling to eventual ethanol generation. As a representative, Fe9.0%‐a/c‐SnSe/SnSe2 exhibits an ethanol Faradaic efficiency of 62.7 % and a partial current density of 239.0 mA cm−2 at −0.6 V in a flow cell. Moreover, it can output an ethanol Faradaic efficiency of 63.5 % and a partial current density of 201.2 mA cm−2 with a full‐cell energy efficiency of 24.1 % at 3.0 V in a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) electrolyzer. This work provides insight into non‐Cu based catalyst design for stabilizing the key intermediates for selective ethanol production from CO2 electroreduction.
The Methods for Estimating Lake Volume, Mean Depth, and Maximum Depth in European Standard EN 16039:2011 Are Flawed and Should Not Be Used
Authors: Seekell David , Gudasz Cristian
Published: October 2024

The European Standard EN 16039:2011 provides guidelines for assessing lake hydromorphology within the Water Framework Directive and includes methods for estimating volume, mean depth, and maximum depth based on statistical models applied to data from topographic maps. We tested the predictive accuracy of these models using independently collected bathymetric data from 35 Swedish lakes. The models had no predictive power, and the maximum depth predictions were inversely correlated with the observed values. The mean absolute percent error was 46% for volume and mean depth, and 85% for maximum depth. The models are flawed and should not be used.
Landing control of a quadrotor on a moving platform with unknown speed in the field of view
Authors: Li Junyan , Zhu Chunli , Lv Yuezu , Chen Lei
Published: October 2024

This paper proposes a solution for the landing of quadrotor UAV on moving platform with unknown speed. To ensure landing target within the field of view, a feasible region is first defined with the angle between the centroid of quadrotor and target in an expected range. Then an adaptive controller is designed to complete the landing process constrained in the feasible region for all targets with smaller speed than a control gain. Furthermore, to restrain the disturbance of target speed, the controller is improved to regulate landing process with an induced angle. The robust controller restrains the possible oscillation caused by uncertainty of target speed. Both numerical simulations and real‐world experiment validated the proposed solution.
The role of visual perception and executive functions on writing skills with learning disabilities: The case of Turkish‐speaking children
Authors: Altindağ Kumaş Özlem , Sümer Dodur Halime Miray
Published: October 2024

This study examined the effects of visual perception and executive function skills on the writing skills of Turkish students with learning disabilities and typically developing Turkish students. Given the unique features of the Turkish language, such as vowel harmony and articulatory structure, this research addresses a significant gap in understanding how these factors influence writing abilities in this population. The study employed a comparative design involving students with learning disabilities and typically developing students and analysed their writing errors, executive function and visual perception levels. Significant differences were found between the two groups, with students with learning disabilities performing worse across all the measures. Correlation analysis indicated significant relationships between writing errors and visual perception, working memory and executive functioning. Multiple regression analysis further revealed that these cognitive factors were crucial predictors of writing skills. These findings underscore the importance of considering visual perception and executive functions when formulating and implementing writing instruction strategies for Turkish students with learning disabilities.
Effect of Dopant Concentration on Luminescence Properties of Na3Ca2(SO4)3F: RE (RE = Eu3+, Dy3+) Phosphor for Solid‐State Lighting
Authors: Tatte Sonal P. , Mishra G. C. , Dhoble N. S. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: October 2024

A fluoride material phosphor doped with rare earth ions Eu3+ and Dy3+ was studied for its photoluminescence (PL) properties. The material was synthesized using a combustion method and characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and PL techniques. The Na3Ca2(SO4)3F: Eu3+ phosphor exhibits two distinct peaks at 593 nm (orange) and 615 nm (red) at an excitation wavelength of 395 nm. The PL excitation spectrum of the Na3Ca2(SO4)3F: Dy3+ phosphor showed series of peaks, corresponding to the 4f → 4f transitions of Dy3+ ions. Under 350‐nm excitation, the PL emission spectrum revealed two prominent bands one at 483 nm (blue region) due to the 4F₉/₂ → 6H₁₅/₂ transition, and another at 573 nm (yellow region) resulting from the 4F₉/₂ → 6H₁₃/₂ transition. These blue and yellow emissions suggest potential applications in solid‐state lighting, particularly for mercury‐free excitation sources. Rare earth–doped Eu3+/Dy3+ materials exhibit highly efficient PL properties, making them suitable candidates for white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) or other solid‐state lighting phosphors.
Recent advances of nanomaterials in imaging liver fibrosis
Authors: Cui Jin , Zhang Shuxuan , Xu Xueli , Ren Ke , Dong Mengzhen , Nie Zhaokun , Xu Yang , Dai Xiaohui , Xu Peng , Sun Shuo , Zhao Xinya , Sun Xiao
Published: October 2024

Liver fibrosis is a pathological process resulting from prolonged exposure to various injury factors. It is characterized by the abnormal proliferation and activation of hepatic stellate cells and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix. If left untreated, it can progress to cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer. There is currently no efficient and accurate clinical diagnostic method for early liver fibrosis. Therefore, there is an urgent need to address the challenge of accurate staging and early diagnosis of liver fibrosis in clinical practice. Recently, nanomaterials have demonstrated significant potential for enhancing the diagnosis of liver fibrosis. Nanomaterials possess the ability to precisely identify and target the microenvironment associated with liver fibrosis. By enhancing their enrichment in the target area, nanomaterials can improve imaging contrast of fibrosis lesions in the liver, thereby enabling accurate diagnosis of liver fibrosis. Accordingly, this review delves into the latest research and advancements concerning nanomaterials in liver fibrosis diagnosis.
Improvements in Sleep Quality in Patients With Major Depressive and Generalized Anxiety Disorders Treated With Individualized, Parcel‐Guided Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Authors: Tang Si Jie , Holle Jonas , Mor Sirjan , Dadario Nicholas B. , Ryan Mark , Teo Charles , Sughrue Michael , Yeung Jacky
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Poor quality sleep has often been cited as a cause of lowered quality of life in patients with affective disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). As sleep and affective disorders are affected by multi‐network interactions, we hypothesize that the modulation of the central executive network (CEN), salience, and default mode networks (DMNs) through individualized repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may improve sleep and quality of life.

Methods

A retrospective analysis from 2020 to 2023 was conducted in patients with affective disorders at Cingulum Health. Multiple targets were selected based on anomalies detected from individual, functional connectivity networks from a machine‐learning connectivity software. rTMS was conducted with accelerated continuous or intermittent theta burst stimulation (TBS) based on the anomaly detected. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), EuroQol (EQ5D), Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI), and the General Anxiety Disorder‐7 (GAD‐7) questionnaires were administered prior to, after, and at follow‐up of rTMS.

Results

Twenty‐seven patients were identified, and the most common diagnoses were MDD (41%) or MDD with GAD (41%). All patients had at least one rTMS target in the CEN. The most common target (19 patients) was L8Av in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC). Patients experienced significant improvements in sleep, quality of life, depressive, and anxiety symptoms after rTMS and during follow‐up. Improvements in sleep correlated with quality of life at follow‐up.

Conclusion

This study suggests that personalized, parcel‐guided rTMS is safe and may provide sustained improvements in sleep, quality of life, and affective symptoms for patients with affective disorders.
Unveiling the role of sustainability practices, co‐innovation and entrepreneurial orientation on SMEs performance: An empirical study in developing country
Authors: Do Hai‐Ninh , Do Ngoc Bich , Nguyen Tra My
Published: October 2024

The emergence of climate change calls for the high‐intensity adoption of sustainability practices in all business actors, especially small‐and‐medium enterprises (SMEs). Yet the adoption of such practices remains lag far lower than developed nations. This article examines the relationship between sustainability practices, a firm's strategic movements towards co‐innovation and entrepreneurial orientation, and SMEs performance. Using quantitative data from questionnaires, a total of 450 SMEs in Vietnam participated in this research. The results indicate two crucial findings. First, economic and social sustainability practices enable technological innovation and innovation outcomes through co‐innovation and entrepreneurial orientation. Second, the effectiveness of technological innovation on SMEs performance is examined in a developing country context. These findings will provide empirical evidence for SMEs and corporations in developing countries to craft sustainable orientations and practices to aid the Sustainable Development Goals.
The role of ESG in enhancing firm resilience to geopolitical risks: An eastern European perspective
Authors: Reyad Hossain Mohammad , Ayesha Momtaj , Iqbal Mohammed Masum , Zariyawati Mohd Ashhari
Published: October 2024

Geopolitical risk (GPR) presents a profound challenge to firms, particularly in regions with persistent political instability. In Eastern Europe, where conflicts like the Russia–Ukraine war heighten uncertainty, firms face immediate financial threats and long‐term strategic vulnerabilities. This study examines the impact of GPR on firm performance, focusing on the moderating role of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices as a resilience mechanism. Using a comprehensive dataset of 1360 publicly listed firms across Poland, Russia, and Ukraine from 2014 to 2023, the analysis employs a base panel data regression model, followed by a two‐step generalized method of moments (GMM) approach to account for endogeneity and ensure robustness. The findings reveal a significant negative relationship between GPR and firm performance, measured by return on assets (ROA). Firms exposed to higher geopolitical risks exhibit weaker profitability. However, firms with stronger ESG performance demonstrate greater resilience, as the GMM results show that ESG engagement moderates the adverse effects of GPR on profitability. This suggests that ESG initiatives enhance adaptive capacity in volatile geopolitical environments. In terms of policy implications, ESG should be promoted as a key strategy for firms operating in politically unstable regions. Governments and regulatory bodies may consider mandatory ESG disclosures and incentivizing sustainability practices to help firms mitigate external risks, improve financial resilience, and attract stable investment. Aligning corporate strategies with global ESG standards is essential to ensuring business sustainability amid ongoing geopolitical threats.
Corporate risk‐taking, economic policy uncertainty and ESG performance: International evidence
Authors: Ooi Chai‐Aun , Lu Ming Pey , Zulkafli Abdul Hadi
Published: October 2024

Corporate risk‐taking, which aims to maximize shareholders' profits, has raised concerns regarding potential conflicts with Environmental, social and governance (ESG) investments. We address this gap by investigating the relationship between corporate risk‐taking and ESG performance using an international sample from 20 economies spanning 2000 to 2022, while carefully accounting for endogeneity based on GMM, Heckman sample selection bias and simultaneous equations. Our findings reveal a significantly negative relationship, suggesting a trade‐off between the two, which aligns with the conservation of resources (COR) theory. Furthermore, the COR theory is integrated with agency theory and stakeholder theory when examining subsamples of high and low corporate governance scores. Additionally, we find that economic policy uncertainty (EPU) positively moderates this relationship, particularly in high‐income economies and for large firms. This effect is evident during the post‐2008 subprime crisis period but dissipates in the post‐COVID‐19 era. The overall findings have several important theoretical and practical implications for the literature.
Efficient and swift heating technique for crafting highly graphitized carbon and crystalline silicon (Si@GC) composite anodes for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Padwal Chinmayee , Wang Xijue , Pham Hong Duc , Hoang Linh Thi My , Mundree Sagadevan , Dubal Deepak
Published: October 2024

The synthesis of battery materials from biomass as feedstock is not only effective but also aligns with sustainable practices. However, current methods like slow pyrolysis/heating are both energy‐intensive and economically impractical. Hence, integrating energy‐efficient technologies becomes imperative to curtail substantial energy consumption and, consequently, minimize carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions during electricity usage. Herein, we employed a one‐step pyrolysis/reduction based on the microwave heating method to synthesize a composite of high‐purity silicon and highly graphitized carbon (Si@GC) from rice husk as feedstock. Compared to the conventional heating methods, the Si@GC samples prepared via the microwave heating method required less time (30–50 min). Benefiting from ultrahigh heating rates, the highly graphitized carbon and crystalline silicon composite was successfully synthesized. The synthesis by microwave irradiation showed homogenous material, excellent surface area, essential functional groups, and crystallinity revealing the outstanding reaction kinetics to form the material. The as‐synthesized Si@GC composite anode material delivered a high discharge capacity of 799 mAh/g with high cyclic stability of ~71% over 120 cycles. The ex situ ToF‐SIMS revealed great inorganic SEI composition, mainly consisting of the fluorinated species and carbonate species produced at the initial cycle. This investigation provides a novel rapid heating method for the synthesis of battery materials, which can also be extended for other materials and applications.
What's Your Take on Integration? Insights From a Qualitative Study on Youth With Migratory Backgrounds in Italy
Authors: Rossi Margherita , Miglietta Anna
Published: October 2024

Socio‐demographic changes in Europe have heightened interest in the topic of integration. However, a clear definition of the construct remains elusive, particularly in relation to the second generation and “long‐established” young people of foreign origin. On the one hand, “integration” takes on different meanings depending on the researcher's approach; on the other, few studies directly address the views of young people with a migrant background. Using a qualitative approach, the study analyses the subjective meaning and connotations attributed to the term “integration,” as well as the personal perception of integration into Italian society among 26 young people of different ethnic origins living in Italy (mean age = 24.5 years, SD 4.1; F = 14). All participants belonged to the second generation or had immigrated to Italy before the age of 12. They answered a semi‐structured interview on cultural identity, characteristics of social networks, feelings of integration and experiences of personal and group discrimination. The results showed that the participants closely associated integration with the issues of respect, acceptance and lack of discrimination, but also with the subjective feeling of being part of society and belonging to it. The limitations and practical implications of the study were discussed.
LC–MS/MS Profiling, Biological Activities and Molecular Docking Studies of Simmondsia Chinensis Leaves
Authors: Soltani Siwar , Ben Abdallah Kolsi Rihab , Baccouch Noura , Michel Thomas , Allouche Noureddine , Salah Hichem Ben
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to assess the biological activities of Tunisian Simmondsia chinensis and characterize its potential bioactive compounds. Different extracts of S. chinensis were tested for their antioxidant, antibacterial, anti‐α‐amylase, and anti‐acetylcholinesterase activities through in vitro assays. The methanolic extract exhibited the highest levels of antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (976.03 GAE/g extract) compared to the other extracts. Additionally, it demonstrated a substantial anti‐acetylcholinesterase activity (PI=75 %) and potent antibacterial property, particularly against Enterococcus faecalis, Listeria monocytogenes, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, and Salmonella enterica. The IC50 values of ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts against α‐amylase were 42 μg/mL and 40 μg/mL, respectively, indicating potent anti‐diabetic effects. HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS analyses identified flavonoids and lignans as the major phenolic compounds in the methanolic extract. To better comprehend the mechanisms behind inhibitory effects on α‐amylase and acetylcholinesterase enzymes, a molecular docking study was conducted. Consequently, these findings indicate that S. chinensis is a highly valuable natural resource with potential industrial applications.
GC‐MS/HPLC Profiling and Sono‐Maceration Mediated Extraction of Osbeckia Parvifolia Polyphenols: In Silico and In Vitro Analysis on Anti‐Proliferative Activity in Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Mathews Paul Benedict , Kannan Gowtham , Jegan Raj Francis , Velavan Sundararajan Vetri , Annadurai Yamuna , Piramanayagam Shanmughavel , Thangaraj Parimelazhagan
Published: October 2024

Osbeckia parvifolia, an endemic edible plant of Western Ghats, was investigated in the present study for its polyphenolic compounds, including content, constituents, extraction through an ultrasonic‐assisted maceration technique and therapeutic potential in biomedical applications. The methanolic extract (OPM) exhibited an IC50 value of 1.25 μg/mL against 2,2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts also strongly inhibited 5‐lipoxygenase, especially OPM (84.93 %), which was comparable to standard curcumin. OPM also elicited cytotoxicity in SKOV3 ovarian cancer cells (93.80 %), surpassing paclitaxel. Bio‐accessibility analysis demonstrated that the release of phenolic compounds and antioxidant potential were very high (above 100 %), revealing the possibility of synergistic efficacy of polyphenolic complexes in drug development. Gas Chromatography ‐Mass Spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis revealed 22 bioactive polyphenolic compounds in OPM, such as epicatechin, quercetin, and psoralidin. This was confirmed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and High‐Pressure Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) analyses, which revealed a high quantity of catechin (37.45 mg/g). Molecular docking revealed the significant binding affinity of these proteins for the ovarian oncoproteins PI3K (−8.52 kcal/mol) and Casp‐8 (−8.41 kcal/mol). Adsorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion and Toxicity (ADMET) profiling indicated the favorable pharmacokinetic properties of these compounds, supporting their candidacy in drug formulations against ovarian cancer.
Aptamer‐based Immune Checkpoint Inhibition for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Huang Yihao , Lin Guihong , Liu Sinong , Chen Mingying , Yang Chaoyong , Song Yanling
Published: October 2024

Cancer has long been a significant threat to human life and health. The advent of immune checkpoint blockade strategies has reversed cancer‐induced immune suppression, advanced the development of immunotherapy, and offered new hope in the fight against cancer. Aptamers, which possess the same specificity and affinity as antibodies, are advantageous due to their synthetic accessibility and ease of modification, providing novel insights for immune checkpoint research. In this review, we outline the key aptamers currently developed for immune checkpoints such as CTLA‐4, PD‐1, PD−L1 and Siglec‐15. We explore their potential in therapeutic strategies, including functionalizing or engineering aptamers for covalent binding, valency control, and nanostructure assembly, as well as investigating molecular mechanisms such as glycosylated protein functions and cell‐cell interactions. Finally, the future applications of aptamers in immunotherapy are discussed.
In vivo and in vitro Reconstitution of Biosynthesis of N‐Prenylated Phenazines Revealing Diverse Phenazine‐Modifying Enzymes
Authors: Kato Teruhito , Xia Dan , Ozaki Taro , Nakao Tomoyo , Zhao Ping , Nishiyama Makoto , Shiraishi Taro , Kuzuyama Tomohisa
Published: October 2024

Phenazine natural products play various roles such as signal molecules, antibiotics, or electron carriers in their producer strains. Among these products, phenazinomycin and lavanducyanin, which are produced by Streptomyces species, are characterized by an N‐alkyl modification. Herein, we established the biosynthetic pathways for these two phenazine natural products. Gene‐disruption experiments and in vitro reconstitution of the phenazine‐tailoring pathway revealed the late steps of the biosynthetic pathway of the phenazines. The class II terpene cyclase homolog Pzm1 catalyzes the cyclization reaction of farnesyl diphosphate to form monocyclic farnesyl diphosphate. Additionally, the prenyltransferase homolog PzmP functions as the N‐prenyltransferase of 5,10‐dihydrophenazine‐1‐carboxylic acid. The flavin monooxygenase homolog PzmS catalyzes the oxidative decarboxylation of prenylated 5,10‐dihydrophenazine‐1‐carboxylic acid to yield phenazinomycin. This study highlights unprecedented modification enzymes for phenazine natural products.
Omental incarceration secondary to uterine perforation after dilatation curettage: Conservative approach in sub‐saharan Africa
Authors: Birge Ozer , Kayar Ilkan , Bello Fatthy
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Complications of uterine perforation and herniation of intra‐abdominal organs into the perforated area may occur after gynecological operations. They can be treated with a conservative approach, especially in cases whose vital signs are stable, laboratory values are within normal limits and their general condition is suitable. We aim to present the conservative treatment without using surgical and medical methods as it is the first case in the literature.

Uterine perforation is a rare but potentially serious complication of curettage for gynecologic or obstetric reasons especially during and after operative procedures and the application of intrauterine contraceptive devices. The incidence of uterine perforation during gynecological operations is between 0.002–1.7. A 30‐year‐old multiparous case with a 7‐week 4‐day pregnancy was diagnosed with incomplete abortion at an external center due to vaginal bleeding. The case underwent suction curettage. After 24 h, revision suction curettage was performed due to the finding of rest in the endometrium during the ultrasonographic control, and the case was diagnosed with uterine perforation and omental herniation due to this. We highlighted the importance of a thorough gynecological assessment following a dilated suction curettage (D&C) procedure that includes a careful clinical examination and a detailed ultrasound evaluation.
Silica‐Mediated Incorporation of Lipase Into the Bulk of a Deep Eutectic Solvent: An Efficient Biocatalytic Phase for Esters Synthesis
Authors: Wolny Anna , Babiuch Agata , Latos Piotr , Jurczyk Sebastian , Chrobok Anna
Published: October 2024

Aiming at sustainable solutions suitable for industrial‐scale catalysis catalytic phase containing lipase and deep eutectic solvent (DES) was designed. To achieve this, both physical and chemical immobilizations of lipases were performed on the surface of silica and carbon materials. The catalytic activity of developed biosystem was tested in biotransformation of α‐angelica lactone into butyl levulinate at 60 °C. The best results were achieved for Candida antarctica lipase B adsorbed on fumed silica suspended in choline chloride: glycerol (1:2) with the addition of 20 wt% of water. Under these conditions 99.9% conversion of α‐angelica lactone and 100% selectivity to butyl levulinate were obtained after 45 min. The biocatalytic system maintained its activity for up to five consecutive reaction cycles with full conversion of lactone to ester. The heterogenization of the enzyme allowed the biocatalyst to be integrated into the bulk of the DES, which includes essential water. This combination resulted in the formation of a stable and easy‐to‐operate catalytic phase where reagents formed a second organic phase. The integration of cost‐effective biocatalyst with process efficiency provides a greener alternative with significant potential for industrial use.
Ru/TiO2 Catalyzed High‐Yield Synthesis of Furanic Diols by 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural Hydrogenation with Switchable Selectivity
Authors: Kashyap Preeti , Jędrzejczyk Marcin , Akhgar Maryam , Aubrecht Jaroslav , Kubička David , Keller Nicolas , Ruppert Agnieszka
Published: October 2024

5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a versatile platform molecule that can be derived from biomass feedstocks and catalytically converted into various value‐added chemicals. In this work, selective hydrogenation of HMF is investigated to produce valuable furan‐based diols, namely 2,5‐bis‐hydroxymethylfuran (BHMF) and 2,5‐bis‐hydroxymethyltetrahydrofuran (BHMTHF), using TiO2 supported Ru catalysts. The catalyst performance was fine‐tuned to achieve over 98% yield to BHMF and BHMTHF under optimized reaction conditions with very good recyclability. We pointed out several key factors allowing to maximize the yield towards the respective diols. Features such as the Ru nanoparticle size, the strength of metal‐support interactions and the presence of residual chlorine were found to significantly influence the reaction. A characteristic volcano‐shaped relationship was obtained between the particle size and the catalytic activity giving the highest diol yield for an optimum Ru nanoparticle size of 1.6 nm. Further, metal‐support interactions were found to be responsible for providing optimum Ru‐TiOx interfacial surface sites and chlorine was affecting the electronic properties of Ru nanoparticles, potentially benefiting to the selective formation of BHMF. The reaction time was shown to control the hydrogenation of the furan ring and the selectivity of the reaction, that can be directed optimally towards BHMF or BHMTHF.
Graphene oxide‐based nanofluidic membranes for reverse electrodialysis that generate electricity from salinity gradients
Authors: Yu Changchun , Xiang Yiming , Lawson Tom , Zhou Yandi , Song Pingan , Chou Shulei , Liu Yong
Published: October 2024

A widely employed energy technology, known as reverse electrodialysis (RED), holds the promise of delivering clean and renewable electricity from water. This technology involves the interaction of two or more bodies of water with varying concentrations of salt ions. The movement of these ions across a membrane generates electricity. However, the efficiency of these systems faces a challenge due to membrane performance degradation over time, often caused by channel blockages. One potential solution to enhance system efficiency is the use of nanofluidic membranes. These specialized membranes offer high ion exchange capacity, abundant ion sources, and customizable channels with varying sizes and properties. Graphene oxide (GO)‐based membranes have emerged as particularly promising candidates in this regard, garnering significant attention in recent literature. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the literature surrounding GO membranes and their applications in RED systems. It also highlights recent advancements in the utilization of GO membranes within these systems. Finally, it explores the potential of these membranes to play a pivotal role in electricity generation within RED systems.
NaTiOx‐modified high‐nickel layered oxide cathode for stable sodium‐ion batteries
Authors: Liu Yingcong , Zhou Xing , He Dongwei , Liu Xiaowei , Yang Chao , Xu Dawei , Wang Meilong , Sun Ruitao , Zhang Bin , Xie Jingjing , Han Jin , Chen Wen , You Ya
Published: October 2024

The O3‐type layered cathode with high Ni content has attracted much attention because of its high capacity and simple synthesis process. However, surface side reaction and O3–P3 phase transitions would occur during Na+ insertion/extraction, resulting in unsatisfying electrochemical performance. Herein, O3‐Na[Ni0.6Co0.2Mn0.2]O2 (NNCM622) cathode is modified by a NaTiOx coating layer in a wet chemistry method, which reduces the parasitic reaction and facilitates Na+ migration. Simultaneously, the partially doped Ti improves structural stability by restraining the irreversible multiple‐phase transition. As a result, the modified NNCM622 cathode obtains a high specific capacity of 143.4 mAh g−1 and an improved capacity retention of 69% after 300 cycles. Our work offers new prospects for stabilizing the NNCM622 cathode with a feasible coating strategy.
Stable Cu (I) Complexes for Intracellular Cu‐Catalyzed Azide Alkyne Cycloaddition
Authors: Olivelli Alexander , Olelewe Chibuzor , Wolff Levi G. , Parkin Sean , Edwin Webster Charles , Awuah Samuel G. , Huckaba Aron J.
Published: October 2024

The copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) has heralded a new era of chemical biology and biomedicine. However, caveats of the CuAAC include formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other copper‐related toxicity. This limits utility in sensitive biological samples and matrices. Towards addressing these caveats, we synthesized and fully characterized two air and water stable trinuclear Cu(I) dimer complexes. The complexes were stable to oxidation in the presence of hydrogen peroxideand other chelators, which was reasoned to be due to the linear benzimidazole‐Cu‐benzimidazole geometry. Computational investigations of the catalytic cycle implicated two of the three coppers in the trimer complex as the active metal centers. The complexes were shown to catalyze the reaction at far below sub‐toxic concentrations for intracellular click reactions to label triple negative breast cancer cells and compared to the current CuSO4‐THPTA standard.
Networked Multicomponent Ensemble as AND Gate with FRET Output
Authors: Kumar Biswas Pronay , Paul Indrajit , Schmittel Michael
Published: October 2024

A networked supramolecular logic AND gate system is accomplished using precise chemical communication within a multicomponent ensemble via metal ion‐driven self‐sorting processes. The cybernetic AND gate is composed of a copper(I)‐loaded nanoswitch, an aza‐crown ether and a rhodamine receptor. The modus operandi of the AND gate, from state (0,0), was induced with stoichiometric amounts of two inputs (IN‐1=Hg2+, IN‐2=Li+) generating copper(I) ions as output only in state (1,1). Generation of state (1,1) from state (0,0) involves selective Cu+ ion translocation from the nanoswitch to the aza‐crown ether in the first step (IN‐1) and then from the aza‐crown ether to the rhodamine receptor in the second step (IN‐2). The released copper(I) output acts as a messenger that binds to the rhodamine receptor, triggering it's spiro‐lactam ring opening, which leads to a diagnostic FRET emission from the copper(I)‐loaded rhodamine scaffold accompanied by a remarkable fluorescence and colour change from pale yellow to pink.
Regulating Solvated Sheath with Anion Chelant Enables 4.6 V Ultra‐Stable Commercial LiCoO2
Authors: Kang Haoyu , Zhang Xuefeng , Ma Yiming , Li Zequan , Liu Liyang , Zhou Libing
Published: October 2024

Increasing cut‐off voltage of lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) (>4.6 V) is an effective strategy to satisfy the ever‐increasing demand for high energy density. However, the irreversible phase transition significantly destroys the structure of high‐voltage LCO, especially the surface lattice. Considering that the structural stability of LCO is primarily dominated by the intrinsic merits of electrode‐electrolyte interface (EEI), we explored and disclosed the operating mechanism of anion chelating agent tris(pentafluorophenyl) borane (TPFPB) and regulate the CEI layer on LCO electrode. Benefiting from the high HOMO energy level and preferential decomposition of TPFPB‐PF6−, a robust LiF‐rich CEI layer is constructed and greatly improves the stability of electrode/electrolyte interface. The well‐designed electrolyte composed of 1 mol L−1 LiPF6 in EC/EMC with TPFPB additives endows Li/LCO half cells and 4 Ah Gr/LCO pouch cell with enhanced cycling stability under a high voltage condition. This work provides pave a new direction for the development of economical high‐voltage LIBs.
Copper(II)‐Catalyzed Regioselective H/D Exchange Based on Reversible C−H Activation
Authors: Su Yuhang , Jiang Zhi‐Jiang , Han Jiawei , Duan Lujie , Bai Jian‐Fei , Chen Jia , Gao Zhanghua
Published: October 2024

Despite the increasing use of copper in C−H functionalizations, the Cu‐catalyzed direct deuteration of C−H bonds remains a significant challenge due to its inherent low reactivity in inverse C−H bond reconstruction. In this paper, a novel strategy had been developed to reverse the copper‐catalyzed concerted metalation‐deprotonation process by inhibiting the unexpected disproportionation of Cu(II) to Cu(III). Picolinic acid was identified as a powerful ligand for facilitating this H/D exchange with D2O as deuterium source, and its inhibition activity was supported by preliminary control experiments and DFT studies.
Unveiling the Potential of Heterogeneous Systems for Reversible Hydrogen Storage in Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers
Authors: Jangir Jyothi , Jagirdar Balaji R.
Published: October 2024

Transitioning towards a carbon‐free economy is the current global need of the hour. The transportation sector is one of the major contributors of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere disturbing the delicate balance on the Earth, leading to global warming. Hydrogen has emerged as a promising alternative energy carrier capable of replacing fossil fuels, with advancements in systems facilitating its storage and long‐distance transport. In this context, the concept of liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) is taking the lead, offering a plausible solution because of its compatibility with the existing gasoline infrastructure, while eliminating the challenges associated with the conventional hydrogen storage methods. Key LOHC systems, such as methylcyclohexane/toluene and H‐18‐dibenzyltoluene/dibenzyltoluene (H‐18‐DBT/DBT), have been extensively researched for large‐scale applications. However, challenges persist, particularly concerning the endothermic nature of the reactions involved. In this regard, of particular interest are the multifunctional heterogeneous catalysts supported on a single support, offering cost‐effective and energy‐efficient solutions to circumvent issues related to the endothermicity of the reactions. In this review, solid heterogeneous catalysts that have been developed and investigated for reversible dehydrogenation and hydrogenation reactions have been presented. These catalysts include monometallic, bimetallic, and pincer complexes supported on materials designed for efficient hydrogen uptake and release.
Wide Frequency Multiphase Oscillator Designed by Coupling Two Identical Ring Voltage Controlled Oscillators
Authors: Hemmati Mohammad Jafar , Mood Sepehr Ebrahimi , Dehnavi Somayeh Zarei
Published: October 2024

This work presents a novel wide tuning range ring voltage controlled oscillator (RVCO) designed to generate six‐phase signals. The proposed circuit is realized by coupling two identical three‐stage single‐ended inverter‐based RVCOs. The coupling network injects the common mode signals from one RVCO to the other one and vice versa in a cross‐connected manner. Three‐stage RVCOs used for coupling have been configured by modifying the conventional current‐starved RVCO. The proposed six‐phase RVCO is optimized using an improved version of non‐dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm III (NSGAIII). In this algorithm, the sigma scaling method is used to control selection pressure and enhance the algorithm's performance. The proposed RVCO oscillates at 3.46 GHz. It can operate from 970 MHz to 4 GHz with a supply voltage of 1.5 V, demonstrating a wide frequency tuning range of 120%. Additionally, another six‐phase oscillator is proposed, achieved by capacitively coupling two identical three‐stage RVCOs. Both proposed oscillators are designed in TSMC 0.18 μm CMOS technology.