bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A framework for translational therapy development in deep brain stimulation
Authors: Chen Jia Zhi , Volkmann Jens , Ip Chi Wang
Published: November 2024

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an established treatment for motor disorders like Parkinson’s disease, but its mechanisms and effects on neurons and networks are not fully understood, limiting research-driven progress. This review presents a framework that combines neurophysiological insights and translational research to enhance DBS therapy, emphasizing biomarkers, device technology, and symptom-specific neuromodulation. It also examines the role of animal research in improving DBS, while acknowledging challenges in clinical translation.
Inadequate foundational decoding skills constrain global literacy goals for pupils in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Crawford Michael , Raheel Neha , Korochkina Maria , Rastle Kathleen
Published: November 2024

Learning to read is the most important outcome of primary education. However, despite substantial improvements in primary school enrolment, most students in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) fail to learn to read by age 10. We report reading assessment data from over half a million pupils from 48 LMICs tested primarily in a language of instruction and show that these pupils are failing to acquire the most basic skills that contribute to reading comprehension. Pupils in LMICs across the first three instructional years are not acquiring the ability to decode printed words fluently and, in most cases, are failing to master the names and sounds associated with letters. Moreover, performance gaps against benchmarks widen with each instructional year. Literacy goals in LMICs will be reached only by ensuring focus on decoding skills in early-grade readers. Effective literacy instruction will require rigorous systematic phonics programmes and assessments suitable for LMIC contexts.
A multi-species benchmark for training and validating mass spectrometry proteomics machine learning models
Authors: Wen Bo , Noble William Stafford
Published: November 2024

Training machine learning models for tasks such as de novo sequencing or spectral clustering requires large collections of confidently identified spectra. Here we describe a dataset of 2.8 million high-confidence peptide-spectrum matches derived from nine different species. The dataset is based on a previously described benchmark but has been re-processed to ensure consistent data quality and enforce separation of training and test peptides.
An ultra-short-period super-Earth with an extremely high density and an outer companion
Authors: Livingston John H. , Gandolfi Davide , Trani Alessandro A. , Herath Mahesh , Barragán Oscar , Hatzes Artie , Luque Rafael , Fukui Akihiko , Nowak Grzegorz , Palle Enric , Hellier Coel , Fridlund Malcolm , de Leon Jerome , Hirano Teruyuki , Narita Norio , Albrecht Simon , Dai Fei , Deeg Hans , Van Eylen Vincent , Korth Judith , Tamura Motohide
Published: November 2024

We present the discovery and characterization of a new multi-planetary system around the Sun-like star K2-360 (EPIC 201595106). K2-360 was first identified in K2 photometry as the host of an ultra-short-period (USP) planet candidate with a period of 0.88 d. We obtained follow-up transit photometry, confirming the star as the host of the signal. High precision radial velocity measurements from HARPS and HARPS-N confirm the transiting USP planet and reveal the existence of an outer (non-transiting) planet with an orbital period of $$\sim$$
∼
10 d. We measure a mass of $$7.67 \pm 0.75$$

7.67
±
0.75

 $$M_{\oplus }$$

M
⊕

and a radius of $$1.57 \pm 0.08$$

1.57
±
0.08

 $$R_{\oplus }$$

R
⊕

for the transiting planet, yielding a high mean density of $$11 \pm 2$$

11
±
2

 g $$\hbox {cm}^{-3}$$

cm

-
3

, making it the densest well-characterized USP super-Earth discovered to date. We measure a minimum mass of $$15.2 \pm 1.8$$

15.2
±
1.8

 $$M_{\oplus }$$

M
⊕

for the outer planet, and explore a migration formation pathway via the von Zeipel–Kozai–Lidov (ZKL) mechanism and tidal dissipation.
Prevalence and risk factors of vitamin D deficiency among Afghan primary school children
Authors: Rahimi Bilal Ahmad , Khalid Aziz Ahmad , Usmani Asmatullah , Khalid Wahid Ahmad , Baseer Abdul Qadeer , Rahimi Javed Ahmad , Taylor Walter R
Published: November 2024

Vitamin D deficiency is common in many societies and causes rickets and non-skeletal disorders in children. There are no published data on vitamin D deficiency in Afghanistan. We, therefore, investigated the prevalence and associated factors of vitamin D deficiency in Afghan school children in Kandahar City, Afghanistan. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from September 2022 to April 2023 in 510 primary school students aged 6–15 years from six randomly selected schools. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression. Of the 510 enrolled children, 54.3% were boys and 91.8% were poor. The mean serum 25(OH)D concentration was 9.3 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/mL) was detected in 436/510 (85.5%) children that was severe in 267/510 (52.4%). By logistic regression analysis, independent factors for vitamin D deficiency were: (i) older age group 11–15 vs. 6 − 10 years, adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.8 (95% confidence interval 1.2–6.2), (ii) poverty AOR 2.0 (1.0–4.3), (iii) not doing outdoor physical activity AOR 4.8 (2.8–8.1), and (iv) daily sunlight exposure < 60 min AOR 2.2 (1.3–3.7). Although Kandahar is very sunny throughout the year, vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among school boys and girls, placing them at great risk of vitamin D-deficient rickets. More work is needed to define the country-wide prevalence of vitamin D deficiency to inform robust strategies of vitamin D supplementation, the provision of vitamin D-fortified food to the school children in Kandahar City and health education programs that can be conducted with the help of international organizations.
Transmission dynamics of fractional order SVEIR model for African swine fever virus with optimal control analysis
Authors: Suganya S. , Parthiban V. , Shangerganesh L. , Hariharan S.
Published: November 2024

Understanding the dynamics of the African swine fever virus during periods of intense replication is critical for effective combatting of the rapid spread. In our research, we have developed a fractional-order SVEIR model using the Caputo derivatives to investigate this behaviour. We have established the existence and uniqueness of the solution through fixed point theory and determined the basic reproduction number using the next-generation matrix method. Our study also involves an examination of the local and global stability of disease-free equilibrium points. Additionally, we have conducted optimal control analysis with two control variables to increase the number of recovered pigs while reducing the number of those infected and exposed. We have supported our findings with numerical simulations to demonstrate the effectiveness of the control strategy.
The interplay of age, gender and amyloid on brain and cognition in mid-life and older adults
Authors: Borne Léonie , Thienel Renate , Lupton Michelle K. , Guo Christine , Mosley Philip , Behler Anna , Giorgio Joseph , Adam Robert , Ceslis Amelia , Bourgeat Pierrick , Fazlollahi Amir , Maruff Paul , Rowe Christopher C. , Masters Colin L. , Fripp Jurgen , Robinson Gail A. , Breakspear Michael
Published: November 2024

Deficits in memory are seen as a canonical sign of aging and a prodrome to dementia in older adults. However, our understanding of age-related cognition and brain morphology occurring throughout a broader spectrum of adulthood remains limited. We quantified the relationship between cognitive function and brain morphology (sulcal width, SW) using three cross-sectional observational datasets (PISA, AIBL, ADNI) from mid-life to older adulthood, assessing the influence of age, sex, amyloid (Aβ) and genetic risk for dementia. The data comprised cognitive, genetic and neuroimaging measures of a total of 1570 non-clinical mid-life and older adults (mean age 72, range 49–90 years, 1330 males) and 1365 age- and sex-matched adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Among non-clinical adults, we found robust modes of co-variation between regional SW and multidomain cognitive function that differed between the mid-life and older age range. These cortical and cognitive profiles derived from healthy cohorts predicted out-of-sample AD and MCI. Furthermore, Aβ-deposition and educational attainment levels were associated with cognition but not SW. These findings underscoring the complex interplay between factors influencing cognition and brain structure from mid-life onwards, providing valuable insights for future research into neurodegeneration and the development of future screening algorithms.
Socioeconomic disparities in Plasmodium falciparum infection risk in Southern Malawi: mediation analyses
Authors: Wafula Solomon T. , Maiga-Ascofare Oumou , Struck Nicole S. , Mathanga Don P. , Cohee Lauren M. , May Jürgen , Puradiredja Dewi I. , Lorenz Eva
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the mediators of the association between socioeconomic position (SEP) and Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) infection in Southern region of Malawi. We utilized data from the 2014 International Center of Excellence for Malaria Research (ICEMR) surveys from Malawi in which blood samples of all individuals from selected households in Blantyre, Thyolo and Chikhwawa were tested for Pf parasitemia. We assessed household SEP and potential mediators – housing quality, food security, education status of household heads, and use of long-lasting Insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) and nutritional status. We conducted causal mediation analyses to assess the proportion of SEP effect that is attributed to each mediator and combination of mediators. The mediation analysis shows that during the rainy season, improved housing and educational attainment explained 39.4% and 17.0% of the SEP effect on Pf infection, respectively, and collectively 66.4%. In the dry season, housing, educational attainment, and LLIN usage collectively mediated 33.4% of SEP’s effect with individual contributions of 15.6%, 11.2%, and 3.8%, respectively. Nutrition also played a role, particularly for children, mediating 9.2% of SEP’s effect in the rainy season and 3.7% in the dry season. The study concluded that multifaceted interventions targeting housing, education, LLIN usage, and nutrition are vital to reducing socioeconomic disparities in Pf infection risk in the Southern region of Malawi.
Impact of thermal seed treatment on spermosphere microbiome, metabolome and viability of winter wheat
Authors: Karlsson Maria E. , Forsberg Gustaf , Rosberg Anna Karin , Thaning Christian , Alsanius Beatrix
Published: November 2024

Thermal seed treatment can be used as an alternative method to prevent infection by seed-borne diseases, but exposure duration and temperature during thermal treatment are important to maintain high seed viability and emergence whilst decreasing infection rate. A method for predicting suitable treatment parameters to maintain viability and eliminate seed-borne pathogens is therefore needed. Seeds of winter wheat were subjected to thermal treatment at four levels of intensity and pre-treatments with or without imbibition. Treatment impact was measured by metabolome analysis using LC-MS and GC-MS, analysis of spermosphere bacterial and fungal metagenomes using Illumina MiSeq, and detection of presence of Fusarium spp. and Microdochium spp. using ddPCR. The results showed that moderate treatment intensity reduced signs of infection and increased seedling emergence. In imbibed samples, myo-inositol concentration and myo-inositol: glucose ratio were positively correlated with treatment intensity, whereas concentrations of glucose and citric acid were negatively correlated. No correlations were found for non-imbibed samples. Imbibition had a large significant impact on microbial community composition of the wheat spermosphere. Imbibition of wheat seeds prior to thermal treatment altered wheat spermosphere microbiota. The concentration of myo-inositol, potentially in combination with glucose, could be a candidate predictor for suitable thermal treatment intensity of wheat seeds.
Effect of electrode size and distance to tissue on unipolar and bipolar voltage electrograms and their implications for a near-field cutoff
Authors: Schlageter Vincent , Luca Adrian , Badertscher Patrick , Krisai Philipp , Kueffer Thomas , Spreen David , Katic Josip , Osswald Stefan , Schaer Beat , Sticherling Christian , Kühne Michael , Knecht Sven
Published: November 2024

Characteristics of electrograms depend on the electrode design and distance to the electric source. Our aim was to assess the impact of electrode design and distance from the myocardial electric source on the unipolar and bipolar electrograms to deduce a far-field cut-off. We retrospectively analyzed left atrial electroanatomical maps of 25 patients acquired using an ablation catheter with a 4.5 mm tip-, mini- and 2 mm ring electrodes. The unipolar and bipolar electrograms were characterized based on peak-to-peak amplitude, signal duration, maximal slope, and relative power of the high frequency spectrum above 50 Hz (HF_rel). The unipolar electrograms of ring electrodes showed an increased amplitude (140%), slope (150%) and HF_rel (16% vs. 11%) compared to the tip- and mini-electrodes. The median amplitude, slope, and HF_rel for the ring electrodes followed a power-law decay with distance with a steep decline up to 4 mm. This near-field cut-off can be identified based on a HF_rel above 10% in unipolar electrograms. In conclusion, we observed a higher unipolar amplitude for small ring-electrodes compared to larger tip-electrodes. The rapid decay of the amplitude, slope, and HF_rel up to a distance of 4 mm is suggestive for near-field cut-off identified based on HF_rel above 50 Hz.

Clinical Trial Registration: NCT04095559.
A simple and cost-effective real-time PCR method using diluted and heat-treated whole blood lysate
Authors: Güllü Amuran Gökçe , Polat Büşra , Kahraman Abdülkadir , Akkiprik Mustafa
Published: November 2024

Although DNA extraction is a crucial step before polymerase chain reaction (PCR), attempts to perform PCR without DNA isolation have been ongoing since the 1990s. While partial success has been achieved with direct conventional PCR, the DNA isolation step has remained indispensable for real-time PCR. Here, we developed a method that does not require complete DNA isolation by lysing EDTA-treated whole blood samples through the application of osmotic pressure and heat, followed by centrifugation to get a clear lysate. Blood samples were mixed with distilled water, incubated at 95 °C for 20 min before centrifugation at 14,000 rpm for 5 min. The resulting lysates were used as templates for real-time PCR. Real-time PCRs were performed under identical conditions with lysates and DNA samples using 9 different primer sets. Target genes were successfully amplified using 1:10 and 1:5 diluted blood lysates both at 60 °C and 61 °C. The PCR efficiency for ACTB and PIK3CA differed by 20% and 14%, respectively, between the DNA samples and blood lysates. We successfully amplified all selected genes using “GG-RT PCR”, greater temperature, greater speed method, without the need for additional enzymes or buffers. GG-RT PCR presents a cost effective option for applications such as SNP analysis and deletion detection if appropriate primer designs are made.
ZBTB18 regulates cytokine expression and affects microglia/macrophage recruitment and commitment in glioblastoma
Authors: Ferrarese Roberto , Joseph Kevin , Andrieux Geoffroy , Haase Ira Verena , Zanon Francesca , Kling Eva , Izzo Annalisa , Corrales Eyleen , Schwabenland Marius , Prinz Marco , Ravi Vidhya Madapusi , Boerries Melanie , Heiland Dieter Henrik , Carro Maria Stella
Published: November 2024

Glioma associated macrophages/microglia (GAMs) play an important role in glioblastoma (GBM) progression, due to their massive recruitment to the tumor site and polarization to a tumor promoting phenotype. GAMs secrete a variety of cytokines, which facilitate tumor cell growth and invasion, and prevent other immune cells from mounting an immune response against the tumor. Here, we demonstrate that zinc finger and BTB containing domain 18 (ZBTB18), a transcriptional repressor with tumor suppressive function in glioblastoma, impairs the production of key cytokines, which function as chemoattractant for GAMs. Consistently, we observe a reduced migration of GAMs when ZBTB18 is expressed by glioblastoma cells, both in cell culture and in vivo experiments. Moreover, RNA sequencing analysis shows that the presence of ZBTB18 in glioblastoma cells alters the commitment of conditioned microglia, suggesting the loss of the immune-suppressive phenotype and the acquisition of pro-inflammatory features. Thus, therapeutic approaches to increase ZBTB18 expression in GBM cells could represent an effective adjuvant to immune therapy in GBM.
Endosome rupture enables enteroviruses from the family Picornaviridae to infect cells
Authors: Ishemgulova Aygul , Mukhamedova Liya , Trebichalská Zuzana , Rájecká Veronika , Payne Pavel , Šmerdová Lenka , Moravcová Jana , Hrebík Dominik , Buchta David , Škubník Karel , Füzik Tibor , Vaňáčová Štěpánka , Nováček Jiří , Plevka Pavel
Published: November 2024

Membrane penetration by non-enveloped viruses is diverse and generally not well understood. Enteroviruses, one of the largest groups of non-enveloped viruses, cause diseases ranging from the common cold to life-threatening encephalitis. Enteroviruses enter cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis. However, how enterovirus particles or RNA genomes cross the endosome membrane into the cytoplasm remains unknown. Here we used cryo-electron tomography of infected cells to show that endosomes containing enteroviruses deform, rupture, and release the virus particles into the cytoplasm. Blocking endosome acidification with bafilomycin A1 reduced the number of particles that released their genomes, but did not prevent them from reaching the cytoplasm. Inhibiting post-endocytic membrane remodeling with wiskostatin promoted abortive enterovirus genome release in endosomes. The rupture of endosomes also occurs in control cells and after the endocytosis of very low-density lipoprotein. In summary, our results show that cellular membrane remodeling disrupts enterovirus-containing endosomes and thus releases the virus particles into the cytoplasm to initiate infection. Since the studied enteroviruses employ different receptors for cell entry but are delivered into the cytoplasm by cell-mediated endosome disruption, it is likely that most if not all enteroviruses, and probably numerous other viruses from the family Picornaviridae, can utilize endosome rupture to infect cells.
scGraphformer: unveiling cellular heterogeneity and interactions in scRNA-seq data using a scalable graph transformer network
Authors: Fan Xingyu , Liu Jiacheng , Yang Yaodong , Gu Chunbin , Han Yuqiang , Wu Bian , Jiang Yirong , Chen Guangyong , Heng Pheng-Ann
Published: November 2024

The precise classification of cell types from single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data is pivotal for dissecting cellular heterogeneity in biological research. Traditional graph neural network (GNN) models are constrained by reliance on predefined graphs, limiting the exploration of complex cell-to-cell relationships. We introduce scGraphformer, a transformer-based GNN that transcends these limitations by learning an all-encompassing cell-cell relational network directly from scRNA-seq data. Through an iterative refinement process, scGraphformer constructs a dense graph structure that captures the full spectrum of cellular interactions. This comprehensive approach enables the identification of subtle and previously obscured cellular patterns and relationships. Evaluated on multiple datasets, scGraphformer demonstrates superior performance in cell type identification compared to existing methods and showcases its scalability with large-scale datasets. Our method not only provides enhanced cell type classification ability but also reveals the underlying cell interactions, offering deeper insights into functional cellular relationships. The scGraphformer thus holds the potential to significantly advance the field of single-cell analysis and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of cellular behavior.
Spatial transcriptomics reveals strong association between SFRP4 and extracellular matrix remodeling in prostate cancer
Authors: Andersen Maria K. , Krossa Sebastian , Midtbust Elise , Pedersen Christine A. , Wess Maximilian , Høiem Therese S. , Viset Trond , Størkersen Øystein , Nervik Ingunn , Sandsmark Elise , Bertilsson Helena , Giskeødegård Guro F. , Rye Morten B. , Tessem May-Britt
Published: November 2024

Prostate tumor heterogeneity is a major obstacle when studying the biological mechanisms of molecular markers. Increased gene expression levels of secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4) is a biomarker in aggressive prostate cancer. To understand how SFRP4 relates to prostate cancer we performed comprehensive spatial and multiomics analysis of the same prostate cancer tissue samples. The experimental workflow included spatial transcriptomics, bulk transcriptomics, proteomics, DNA methylomics and tissue staining. SFRP4 mRNA was predominantly located in cancer stroma, produced by fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, and co-expressed with extracellular matrix components. We also confirmed that higher SFRP4 gene expression is associated with cancer aggressiveness. Gene expression of SFRP4 was affected by gene promotor methylation. Surprisingly, the high mRNA levels did not reflect SFRP4 protein levels, which was much lower. This study contributes previously unknown insights of SFRP4 mRNA in the prostate tumor environment that potentially can improve diagnosis and treatment.
Thermodynamic evidence for polaron stabilization inside the antiferromagnetic order of Eu5In2Sb6
Authors: Dawczak-Dębicki Hubert , Ale Crivillero M. Victoria , Cook Matthew S. , Thomas Sean M. , Rosa Priscila F. S. , Müller Jens , Rößler Ulrich K. , Schlottmann Pedro , Wirth Steffen
Published: November 2024

Materials exhibiting electronic inhomogeneities at the nanometer scale have enormous potential for applications. Magnetic polarons are one such type of inhomogeneity which link the electronic, magnetic and lattice degrees of freedom in correlated matter and often give rise to colossal magnetoresistance. Here, we investigate single crystals of Eu5In2Sb6 by thermal expansion and magnetostriction along different crystallographic directions. These data provide compelling evidence for the formation of magnetic polarons in Eu5In2Sb6 well above the magnetic ordering temperature. More specifically, our results are consistent with anisotropic polarons with varying extent along the different crystallographic directions. A crossover revealed within the magnetically ordered phase can be associated with a surprising stabilization of ferromagnetic polarons within the global antiferromagnetic order upon decreasing temperature. These findings make Eu5In2Sb6 a rare example of such coexisting and competing magnetic orders and, importantly, shed new light on colossal magnetoresistive behavior beyond manganites.
The unique biogeochemical role of carbonate-associated organic matter in a subtropical seagrass meadow
Authors: Zeller Mary A. , Van Dam Bryce R. , Lopes Christian , McKenna Amy M. , Osburn Christopher L. , Fourqurean James W. , Kominoski John S. , Böttcher Michael Ernst
Published: November 2024

The particulate organic matter buried in carbonate-rich seagrass ecosystems is an important blue carbon reservoir. While carbonate sediments are affected by alkalinity produced or consumed in seagrass-mediated biogeochemical processes, little is known about the corresponding impact on organic matter. A portion of particulate organic matter is carbonate-associated organic matter. Here, we explore its biogeochemistry in a carbonate seagrass meadow in central Florida Bay, USA. We couple inorganic stable isotope analyses (δ34S, δ18O) with a molecular characterization of dissolved and carbonate associated organic matter (21 tesla Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry). We find that carbonate-associated molecular formulas are highly sulfurized compared to surface water dissolved organic matter, with multiple sulfurization pathways at play. Furthermore, 97% of the formula abundance of surface water dissolved organic matter is shared with carbonate-associated organic matter, indicating connectivity between these two pools. We estimate that 9.2% of the particulate organic matter is carbonate-associated, and readily exchangeable with the broader aquatic system as the sediment dissolves and reprecipitates.
Towards a unified approach to prioritization of regenerative agricultural practices across cropping systems
Authors: Sela Shai , Dobermann Achim , Cerri Carlos Eduardo , Svoray Tal , van-Es Harold , Amsili Joseph , Biradar Sanjay , Luzon Uria , Katz Sagi
Published: November 2024

Prioritizing field practices according to their contribution to regenerative efforts, in a structured and standardized manner, can enable efficient resource allocation and higher adoption rates. However, it is remarkably hampered by the diversity of production environments and their respective best management practices. This paper proposes prioritizing regenerative practices using a multicriteria assessment method informed by expert knowledge. To develop it, we mined and synthesized knowledge from eleven experts for three diverse cropping systems, showing that the prioritization of practices varies greatly across production environments. By integrating the multicriteria approach with a multi-indicator sustainability framework, we demonstrate how practice weights can be used to monitor sustainability efforts and outcomes of thirty vineyard farms in Maharashtra, India. The suggested prioritization approach can be used to standardize the assessment of the importance of regenerative practices in different cropping systems and be adopted in sustainable sourcing schemes of the agro-food industry.
Preparation and Modification of New Functional Materials for Organic Pollutant Elimination
Authors: Rizzo C. , Amata S. , Emmola G. , Buscemi S. , Pace A. , Piccionello A. Palumbo
Published: November 2024

Pollution is one of the big issues that modern society must face and, nowadays, water remediation represents a complex challenge due to the presence of a large variety of pollutants. For instance, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, pharmaceuticals, or other biologically active compounds, and microplastics are recognized as new emerging pollutants. Struggling to find solutions for this problem, researchers have designed several advanced materials paying attention to the biocompatibility of the new materials. Organic materials such as biomass derived polymers, metal and covalent organic frameworks, carbon nanomaterials (graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes) and hybrid materials have been recently synthesized or properly functionalized for pollutant removal. An overview on recent advances that took place in the last five years on the development of new hybrid or organic materials for pollutant removal is reported here. Synthetic strategies applied to obtain these materials as well as a description of the features of the materials that affect their efficiency in the removal process are discussed.
Ultrafiltration for Laundry Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Zakaria Nur Alyaa Syfina , Goh Pei Sean , Lau Woei Jye , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: November 2024

Laundry wastewater (LWW) is a form of greywater that needs to be treated as it is harmful to the environment and humans. Several technologies and methods to treat LWW will be discussed in this chapter such as physical, biological, chemical, and hybrid/integrated processes. It will also give insights into why membrane technology such as ultrafiltration membrane is one of the effective methods to treat LWW for reuse and recycling.
TiO2–Graphitic Carbon Nitride-based Nanocomposites for the Degradation of Emerging Pollutants
Authors: Kanakaraju Devagi , Chin Lim Ying
Published: November 2024

TiO2-based nanocomposites have been extensively explored as potential materials for the degradation of various emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, dyes, and pesticides. The material’s photocatalytic performances have been continually improved via the inclusion of semiconductor(s), cocatalysts, and doping. Graphitic carbon nitride (gC3N4) is regarded as a good visible light photocatalyst for the modification of TiO2 and its nanocomposites. Binary TiO2–gC3N4 and TiO2–gC3N4-based nanostructures have been synthesized in related studies via various synthesis methods and routes such as sol–gel, hydrothermal, solvothermal and microwave methods to produce highly visible-light responsive materials with enhanced charge separation and photocatalytic activity. The type of precursors and calcination conditions also greatly influence the material’s surface, optical morphology, and finally their photocatalytic activities. Both binary TiO2–gC3N4 and TiO2–gC3N4-based nanostructures exhibit great potential in removing emerging pollutants and can be further exploited in achieving enhanced photocatalytic performance.
Synthesis and Functionalization of Metal Oxides for the Removal of Organic Pollutants
Authors: Umar Khalid , Afridi Saima Khan , Iqbal Anwar
Published: November 2024

Pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and organic dyes form a large group of contaminants contributing to depleting water quality and posing a threat to both flora and fauna. These contaminants are generally released from textile, agricultural, and healthcare industrial processes. There are several techniques that have been developed for the efficient degradation of organic pollutants in water. In this chapter, the significance of photocatalysis using metal oxides and doped metal oxides is discussed. Next, various synthesis routes for advanced materials such as the sol–gel method, hydrothermal method, micro-emulsion method, electrochemical method, and thermal decomposition method are also explained. Furthermore, the chapter highlights the crucial role of modifying advanced materials to improve their effectiveness in removing pollutants. It also discusses techniques involving the addition of metals, non-metals, and polymers to these materials, emphasizing their contribution to enhancing their ability for efficient degradation of organic pollutants. The focal point of this chapter is the use of metal oxides and doped metal oxides to degrade various organic pollutants like pesticides, drugs, and dyes using light. In brief, this chapter emphasizes the importance of photocatalytic materials for the removal of water pollutants to clean our environment.
A simple colorimetric detection of telomerase exploiting specific cleavage of exonuclease III coupled with telomeric DNA controlled aggregation of nanogold
Authors: Le Huyen Huynh Thi , Cam Duyen Vo Thi , Truong Phuoc Long
Published: November 2024

A simple approach for ultrasensitive detection of telomerase is described herein. The method relies on the telomerase catalysis, structure-specific cleavage activity of exonuclease III coupled with telomeric DNA controlled aggregation of nanogold.
Synthesis of a fluorescent probe based on rhodol's highly selective recognition of H2S and its application in cells
Authors: Tang Jiefeng , Chen Xiangjun , Wang Zhenzhen , Zhang Shuntao , Wang Juan , Cheng Chunru
Published: November 2024

A new fluorescent probe for detecting hydrogen sulfide (H2S) was developed through the thiolation reaction of 2-chloro-1,4-naphthoquinone.
ARCaDia: single-round screening of a DNA-type targeted covalent binder possessing a latent warhead
Authors: Taki Masumi , Kuwahara Masayasu , Li Chaohui , Tomoda Naoko , Miyashita Naoyuki , Kan Tetsuo , Yang Jay
Published: November 2024

A covalent binder was identified using a single-round screening from a latent-warhead-modified DNA library, coupled with top k-mer analysis to pinpoint the optimal warhead position on the aptamer.
Efficient reduction of nitrate to ammonia on an AuPt@ZIF-8 composite film
Authors: Yang Yijie , Tang Guorui , Liu Xiaoyun , Yang Liu , Gao Ruimin , Li Cheng-Peng
Published: November 2024

This work presents a unique electrocatalyst of nanoporous AuPt@ZIF-8 composite film for nitrate reduction reaction, achieving superior enhancement with high ammonia yield of 131.5 μg h−1 mgcat−1 and faradaic efficiency of 95.8%.
Density scaling and isodynes in glycerol–water mixtures
Authors: Noirat David B. , Frick Bernhard , Jakobsen Bo , Appel Markus , Niss Kristine
Published: November 2024

This paper presents dielectric and neutron spectroscopy data on two different glycerol–water mixtures at elevated pressures.
Mechanistic insights into CO2 activation on pristine, vacancy-containing and doped goldene: a single-atom layer of gold
Authors: Kumar Kamal , de Leeuw Nora H. , Adam Jost , Mishra Abhishek Kumar
Published: November 2024

Goldene, a one-atom-thick gold sheet, is an emerging graphene-like flat 2-dimensional material. Abhishek Kumar Mishra and co-workers have investigated CO2 activation and defect mediated CO2 activation on goldene, presenting it as promising material for CO2 electrochemical conversion.
20-electron exohedral alkaline-earth metallofullerenes M(C60)3 (M = Ca, Sr, and Ba)
Authors: Huang Feiyang , Zhou Jian , Yang Tao
Published: November 2024

Electron-counting rules are promising in determining stable complexes for various elemental groups. Theoretical calculations reveal that M(C60)3 (M = Ca, Sr, Ba) which are 20-electron complexes violating 18-electron rule could exist.
Ag/Cu foam catalyst for selective reduction of CO2 to CH3OH at low potential
Authors: Nie Ruitao , Deng Xiaolong , Yang Haoyu , Chen Hongwei , Yang Jie , Lu Meiyi , Peng Keqi , Zhou Xiaoyu , Yang Chen , Xie Juan , Wang Hu
Published: November 2024

Electrocatalytic selective reduction of CO2 to liquid phase products, particularly methanol, is a promising technique for CO2 utilization.
Embedding material graphs using the electron-ion potential: application to material fracture
Authors: Tawfik Sherif Abdulkader , Nguyen Tri Minh , Russo Salvy P. , Tran Truyen , Gupta Sunil , Venkatesh Svetha
Published: November 2024

Improving the physics of physics-informed machine learning.
Investigating the formation of metal nitride complexes employing a tetradentate bis-carbene bis-phenolate ligand
Authors: Kunert Romain , Martelino Diego , Mahato Samyadeb , Hein Nicholas M. , Pulfer Jason , Philouze Christian , Jarjayes Olivier , Thomas Fabrice , Storr Tim
Published: November 2024

The synthesis of MnV and CrV nitride complexes of a pro-radical tetradentate bis-phenol bis-N-heterocyclic carbene ligand H2LC2O2 was investigated.
Fe/Fe3C particles encapsulated in hollow carbon nanoboxes for high performance zinc–air batteries
Authors: Huang Chuyun , Zhang Wenyuan , Hu Xuezhi , Fei Shiliang , Nemangwele Fhulufhelo , Maluta Nnditshedzeni Eric , Hu Yangsen , Lv Hui , Hu Pei , Peng Zhuo
Published: November 2024

Zinc–air batteries are recognized for their environmental friendliness and high energy density; however, the slow kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the air electrode hinder their commercial viability.
Modular synthesis of triphenylphosphine-derived cage ligands for rhodium-catalyzed hydroformylation applications
Authors: Wang Wenlong , Li Cunyao , Wang Wenhao , Qiu Yuqin , Liu Hongguang , Lu Jinlong , Zhan Yizhou , Yan Li , Ding Yunjie
Published: November 2024

Cage ligands can be easily synthesized via dynamic imine chemistry, and a specific cage ligand exhibits excellent performance in Rh-catalyzed hydroformylation reaction (TOF up to 2665 h−1 and the l/b ratio reaches 2.6).
Activation of small molecules by ambiphilic NHC-stabilized phosphinoborenium cation: formation of boreniums with B–O–C, B–O–B, and B–O–P structural motifs
Authors: Wojnowski Tomasz , Ordyszewska Anna , Halenka Hanna , Anusiewicz Iwona , Chojnacki Jarosław , Kaniewska-Laskowska Kinga , Grubba Rafał
Published: November 2024

NHC-stabilized phosphinoborenium cation acts as a synthon of boreniums with B–O–C(O)–P, B–O–B, B–O–P, and B–O–C structural motifs.
The bonding situations in ruthenium chalcogenonitrosyl compounds: a physical reasoning
Authors: Cardoso Richard F. , Glitz Vinícius A. , Parreira Renato L. T. , Caramori Giovanni F. , Lacerda Luis H. S.
Published: November 2024

Ru-NE bonds (E = O, S, Se and Te) have been studied and the results show that upon one-electron reduction the Ru-NE interaction is weakened by 150–200 kcal mol−1, favouring the lability of the NE group.
Bicyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbenes (BICAACs): synthesis, characteristics, and applications
Authors: Sharma Ankita , Nair K Unnikrishnan , Kundu Subrata
Published: November 2024

This review covers the synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of bicyclic(alkyl)(amino)carbenes (BICAACs) and outlines the diverse applications of BICAACs in organometallic chemistry, metal-free catalysis, and main-group chemistry.
Titanosiloxanes consisting of tetrahedrally coordinated Ti cores and branched siloxane cages
Authors: Saito Shohei , Kawamura Kenta , Sato Naoto , Matsuno Takamichi , Wada Hiroaki , Kuroda Kazuyuki , Shimojima Atsushi
Published: November 2024

Titanosiloxane molecules comprising tetrahedrally coordinated Ti centers and branched siloxane cages are synthesized. These titanosiloxane molecules are important as models for Ti-containing silica-based catalysts.
The hydrate of a neutral iron(iii) complex based on the pyruvic acid thiosemicarbazone ligand with abrupt spin-crossover with T1/2 = 340 K and a wide hysteresis loop of 45 K
Authors: Blagov Maxim A. , Akimov Alexander V. , Lobach Anatoly S. , Zorina Leokadiya V. , Simonov Sergey V. , Zakharov Konstantin V. , Vasiliev Alexander N. , Spitsyna Nataliya G.
Published: November 2024

The iron(iii) SCO complex based on the pyruvic acid thiosemicarbazone ligand [Fe(Hthpy)(thpy)]·H2O was synthesized and characterized using powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, dc magnetic measurements, FT-IR, EPR and Mössbauer spectroscopy.
Construction of efficient Pb(ii) carboxylate catalysts for the oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions
Authors: Janak  , Sapner Vijay S. , Sathe Bhaskar R. , Khullar Sadhika
Published: November 2024

Design and development of cost-effective and efficient electrocatalysts for Oxygen evolution reacton and Hydrogen evolution reaction.
Interfacial coordination utilizing chelating ligands for operationally stable perovskite solar modules
Authors: Tian Bingkun , Zhang Peikun , Liu Tianjun , Chu Weicun , Long Yuyang , Xu Peng , Jiang Ying , Zhang Jinping , Tang Yajing , Sun Xiangnan , Nie Riming , Zhao Xiaoming , Guo Wanlin , Zhang Zhuhua
Published: November 2024

An interfacial coordination strategy with chelating ligands enhances both efficiency and stability in large-scale solar modules.
Galacto-oligosaccharides regulate intestinal mucosal sialylation to counteract antibiotic-induced mucin dysbiosis
Authors: Xu Laipeng , Li Xuan , Han Shuibing , Mu Chunlong , Zhu Weiyun
Published: November 2024

Mucus sialylation determines intestinal host–commensal homeostasis.
Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS): calibration challenges, combination with other techniques, and spectral analysis using data science
Authors: Ferreira Dennis Silva , Babos Diego Victor , Lima-Filho Mauro Henrique , Castello Heloisa Froehlick , Olivieri Alejandro C. , Verbi Pereira Fabiola Manhas , Pereira-Filho Edenir Rodrigues
Published: November 2024

LIBS is a versatile analytical tool for rapid analysis. Advances in calibration, data fusion with other techniques, and machine learning are enhancing accuracy, making LIBS crucial for fields like industrial quality control and space exploration.
High-precision MC-ICP-MS measurements of Cd isotopes using a novel double spike method without Sn isobaric interference
Authors: Li Jin , Tang Suo-han , Zhu Xiangkun , Ma Jian-xiong , Zhu Zhiyong , Yan Bin
Published: November 2024

We developed a double spike technique that avoids 114Sn interference on 114Cd. 113Cd, 106Cd, 110Cd, and 111Cd were used to obtain δ113/110Cd, and then calculate δ114/110Cd as 1.33 × δ113/110Cd. When Sn/Cd is ≤2.5, δ114/110Cd is not affected.
Reprocessable, recyclable and shape programmable epoxy vitrimers
Authors: Yao Hongxin , Yang Hongjun , Jiang Li , Huang Wenyan , Jiang Qimin , Jiang Bibiao , Zhang Guangzhao
Published: November 2024

Epoxy vitrimers are versatile thermoset polymers with good mechanical and reprocessable properties.
ROS-releasing PVA sub-micron antimicrobial dressing with enhanced aqueous stability and mechanical properties
Authors: Mieles Joel Yupanqui , Vyas Cian , Humphreys Gavin , Diver Carl , Bartolo Paulo
Published: November 2024

Electrospun polyvinyl alcohol and RO-101 fibres were crosslinked via exposure to glutaraldehyde to produce highly stable hydrogen peroxide releasing meshes.
Development and characterisation of starch/alginate active films incorporated with lemongrass essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus)
Authors: Vargas Olga Lucía Torres , Loaiza Yessica Viviana Galeano , Agredo Iván Andrés Rodríguez
Published: November 2024

The development of active films based on biopolymers containing antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds has contributed to the improvement of food safety.
SIGMAP: an explainable artificial intelligence tool for SIGMA-1 receptor affinity prediction
Authors: Lomuscio Maria Cristina , Corriero Nicola , Nanna Vittoria , Piccinno Antonio , Saviano Michele , Lanzilotti Rosa , Abate Carmen , Alberga Domenico , Mangiatordi Giuseppe Felice
Published: November 2024

Developing sigma-1 receptor (S1R) modulators is considered a valuable therapeutic strategy to counteract neurodegeneration, cancer progression, and viral infections, including COVID-19.
Hydrogen sulfide-generating semiconducting polymer nanoparticles for amplified radiodynamic–ferroptosis therapy of orthotopic glioblastoma
Authors: Zhu Anni , Shao Shuai , Hu Jinyuan , Tu Wenzhi , Song Zheming , Liu Yue , Liu Jiansheng , Zhang Qin , Li Jingchao
Published: November 2024

A hydrogen sulfide (H2S)-generating semiconducting polymer nanoparticle (PFeD@Ang) is developed for amplified radiodynamic–ferroptosis therapy of orthotopic glioblastoma via a combinational action.
Experimental and kinetic modelling study of NC palladacycles mechanosynthesis
Authors: Allenbaugh Rachel J. , Ariagno Tia M. , Selby Jeffrey
Published: November 2024

Widely-used palladacycle precatalysts are mechanosynthesized through C–H activation enhanced by non-innocent liquid assisted grinding (i.e. formation of intermediate Pd-solvent adducts).
Protein corona potentiates the recovery of nanoparticle-induced disrupted tight junctions in endothelial cells
Authors: Ghouri Muhammad Daniyal , Tariq Ayesha , Saleem Jabran , Muhaymin Abdul , Cai Rong , Chen Chunying
Published: November 2024

The protein corona facilitates the recovery of tight junctions disrupted by nanoparticles in endothelial cells and star shape-dependent protein corona induces the aggregates of cell junction proteins.
Highly efficient extraction of alkaloids via bio-derived ionic liquids for complex wound repair
Authors: Liu Tianqi , Xie Lin , Xiao Hailiang , Bai De , Liu Ying , Zhang Jichuan , Zhang Jiaheng
Published: November 2024

An ionic liquid made based on carnitine and citric acid for extracting alkaloids from Coptis chinensis is reported. This system shows high extraction efficiency, with enhanced antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Preparation of high-toughness PAM-Gel/CNTs-RGO hydrogel and its electromagnetic shielding properties
Authors: Diao Kunlan , Zhou Teng , Du Jiajia , Xu Yuhuan , Zhang Daohai
Published: November 2024

The heterogeneous structures of CNTs and RGO were blended, and PAM-Gel/CNT-RGO hydrogels were prepared by a simple physical method. The shielding performance of PAM-Gel/CNT-RGO hydrogel in X-band was up to 45.14 dB.
Expeditious synthesis of CF3-phenanthridones through a base-mediated cross-conjugated vinylogous benzannulation (VBA)
Authors: Desagoni Madhu , Nagababu Chavakula , Punna Nagender
Published: November 2024

An efficient strategy is disclosed for synthesizing CF3-phenanthridones via a cross-conjugated vinylogous [4 + 2] benzannulation of easily accessible 4-methyl-3-trifluoroacetylquinolones and nitro-olefins.
Synthesis of benzosultams via Ag(i)-catalyzed alkylative cyclization of vinyl sulfonamides
Authors: Dupud Raju , Merugu Karthik Kumar , R Remyachand , Ramesh Remya
Published: November 2024

A simple methodology for the synthesis of benzo-fused-γ-sultams via the decarboxylative alkylation and cyclization of vinyl sulfonamides is described. Carboxylic acids with diverse structural features were employed as alkyl sources in this method.
Navigating rheumatoid arthritis: insights into ligand-anchored nanoparticle strategies for anti-inflammatory therapy and relief
Authors: Karmarkar Shriya , Fernandes Trinette , Choonia Zainab , Gharat Sankalp , Sawarkar Sujata
Published: November 2024

Ligand-based nanotechnology is promising in enhancing targeted drug delivery in autoimmune disorders. This study explores molecular targets and new active targeting techniques. These technologies enhance drug specificity via precise targeting.
A highly active zinc-based catalyst system for lactide homo- and copolymerization under industrially relevant conditions
Authors: Zhang Zisheng , Zhou Yi , Liu Shuang , Li Baixue , Qu Rui , Gu Yanan , Suo Hongyi , Qin Yusheng
Published: November 2024

A guanidine-based zinc catalyst with a rigid backbone exhibited excellent activity in the ring-opening polymerization and copolymerization of lactide.
Protic poly(diallylmethylammonium) poly(ionic liquid) proton exchange membranes with low fluorine content
Authors: Pairetti Yuliana , Gallastegui Antonela , Wojnarowska Zaneta , Paluch Marian , Aziz Ilaria Abdel , Casado Nerea , O'Dell Luke A. , Forsyth Maria , Mecerreyes David
Published: November 2024

Towards PFAS-free high-conducting proton exchange membranes based on poly(ionic liquid)s.
Ammonia and formate cosynthesis via nitrate electroreduction combined with methanol electrooxidation over nitrogen-doped carbon-encapsulated nickel iron phosphide
Authors: Wang Zongyi , Chang Jiuli , Gao Zhiyong
Published: November 2024

Nitrate–methanol co-electrolysis by the pairwise cathodic NO3RR and anodic MOR is a viable way to coproduce ammonia (NH3) and formate via gentle, sustainable and energy-saving “E-refining” and “E-reforming” means.
High-performance, high energy density symmetric supercapacitors based on δ-MnO2 nanoflower electrodes incorporated with an ion-conducting polymer
Authors: Sharma Shrishti , Kaur Gurpreet , Sharma Bhargab , Saiteja Buddu Nagasiva , Dalvi Anshuman
Published: November 2024

The present work investigates liquid-based and liquid-free supercapacitors assembled using δ-MnO2-nanoflower-based electrodes.
Zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 in chitosan-grafted hydrogel as an effective catalyst for peroxymonosulfate activation to degrade antibiotics and dyes
Authors: Nachaichot Atipong , Phonlakan Kunlarat , Nijpanich Supinya , Pornsuwan Soraya , Budsombat Surangkhana
Published: November 2024

Zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) was synthesized in situ in the hydrogel of chitosan-grafted poly(acrylic acid) (chitosan-g-PAA) to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and degrade tetracycline (TC).
Reversible Zn and Mn deposition in NiFeMn-LDH cathodes for aqueous Zn–Mn batteries
Authors: Ge Yuan , Pan Dong , Li Lin , Fan Jiaxin , Liu Wei
Published: November 2024

NiFeMn-LDH was utilized as a novel cathode material for zinc–manganese batteries. By adjusting the electrolyte ratio, it was discovered that a molar ratio of zinc to manganese of 4 : 1 can achieve a balance between capacity and stability.