bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drying Strawberry Slices: A Comparative Study of Electrohydrodynamic, Hot Air, and Electrohydrodynamic‐Hot Air Techniques
Authors: Polat Ahmet
Published: October 2024

The investigation encompassed an examination of the drying durations, modeling, and quality attributes (color, rehydration capacity, microstructural features, total soluble solid [TSS], and pH values) of strawberry slices subjected to diverse drying methodologies, namely electrohydrodynamic (EHD), EHD‐hot air, and hot air processes. Furthermore, 10 distinct thin‐layer drying models were applied, and their goodness‐of‐fit was assessed to identify the most suitable model for the drying process. This analysis encompassed applying two distinct temperatures (50°C and 55°C), and voltage levels (20 and 30 kV). The EHD method yielded the lengthiest drying durations for the strawberry samples, with hot air and EHD‐hot air drying techniques subsequent in descending order of drying time. The outcomes of the modeling analyses demonstrated that the thin‐layer drying behaviors of used drying methods were best described by the Midilli et al. and Wang and Singh models in terms of their goodness‐of‐fit. A decline in the L* values was noted with the elevation of temperature in the hot air drying method and with the escalation of voltage in the EHD drying. The minimum a* value was detected in the hot air drying method conducted at 55°C. The rehydration capacity of strawberry samples subjected to the EHD and EHD‐hot air combination drying methods (except 20 kV‐55°C) did not exhibit any statistically significant variation in response to different voltage settings. Although the structure of strawberry samples dried with 20 kV application was observed as smoother, cracks occurred on the product surface in other drying applications. In hot air and EHD methods, varying temperature and volt applications did not show a significant effect on TSS and pH values. As a result, it has been seen that EHD technology, which is a promising drying method used in this study, is a suitable method in terms of processing efficiency and consumer acceptability of dried strawberry products.
Exploring the Relationship Between Gut Microbiota and Sarcopenia Based on Gut–Muscle Axis
Authors: Li Wei , Sheng Ren‐Wang , Cao Mu‐Min , Rui Yun‐Feng
Published: October 2024

Sarcopenia, as a disease characterized by progressive decline of quality, strength, and function of muscles, has posed an increasingly significant threat to the health of middle‐aged and elderly individuals in recent years. With the continuous deepening of studies, the concept of gut–muscle axis has attracted widespread attention worldwide, and the occurrence and development of sarcopenia are believed to be closely related to the composition and functional alterations of gut microbiota. In this review, combined with existing literatures and clinical reports, we have summarized the role and impacts of gut microbiota on the muscle, the relevance between gut microbiota and sarcopenia, potential mechanisms of gut microbiota in the modulation of sarcopenia, potential methods to alleviate sarcopenia by modulating gut microbiota, and relevant advances and perspectives, thus contributing to adding more novel knowledge to this research direction and providing certain reference for future related studies.
Investigation of Changes in the Reflection Spectrum of Human Blood When Exposed to Laser Radiation With Wavelengths of 450 or 980 nm
Authors: Chuchin V. Yu. , Masharskaya A. A. , Belikov A. V.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to determine and explain changes in the reflectance spectrum of human blood in vitro when exposed to laser radiation at wavelengths of 450 or 980 nm.

Methods

Reflectance spectra of venous blood samples were measured before and after exposure to a single pulse of 450 or 980 nm laser radiation. A numerical optical model based on the Monte Carlo method was applied.

Results

Laser irradiation at 450 and 980 nm caused the most significant changes in the reflectance spectrum around 600 nm, associated with alterations in blood oxygen saturation. The maximum efficiency of reducing oxygen saturation was 0.20%/W for 980 nm and 0.72%/W for 450 nm, likely due to differences in blood absorption at these wavelengths.

Conclusions

The greatest change in intensity reflectance spectra and oxygen saturation of human venous blood occurs when exposed to laser radiation at 450 nm, not at 980 nm.
Machine learning predictive models to guide prevention and intervention allocation for anxiety and depressive disorders among college students
Authors: Zhai Yusen , Zhang Yixin , Chu Zhicong , Geng Baocheng , Almaawali Mahmood , Fulmer Russell , Lin Yung‐Wei Dennis , Xu Zhaopu , Daniels Aubrey D. , Liu Yanhong , Chen Qu , Du Xue
Published: October 2024

College student mental health has been a critical concern for professional counselors. Anxiety and depressive disorders have become increasingly prevalent over the past decade. Utilizing machine learning, a subset of artificial intelligence (AI), we developed predictive models (i.e., eXtreme Gradient Boosting [XGBoost], Random Forest, Decision Tree, and Logistic Regression) to identify US college students at heightened risk of diagnosable anxiety and depressive disorders. The dataset included 61,619 students from 133 US higher education institutions and was partitioned into a 90:10 ratio for training and testing the models. We employed hyperparameter tuning and cross‐validation to optimize model performance and examined multiple measures of predictive performance (e.g., area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC], accuracy, sensitivity). Results revealed strong discriminative power in our machine learning predictive models with AUC of 0.74 and 0.77, indicating current financial situation, sense of belonging on campus, disability status, and age as the top predictors of anxiety and depressive disorders. This study provides a practical tool for professional counselors to proactively identify students for anxiety and depressive disorders before these conditions escalate. Application of machine learning in counseling research provides data‐driven insights that help enhance the understanding of mental health determinants, guide prevention and intervention strategies, and promote the well‐being of diverse student populations through counseling.
Lack of wastewater treatment in a small town drives the spread of ESBL‐producing Escherichia coli in irrigation waters
Authors: VanderYacht Thomas , Salinas Liseth , Remerleitch Tilden , Walas Nikolina , Ho Tin , Trueba Gabriel , Graham Jay P.
Published: October 2024

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is a critical and growing global challenge, especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Ecuador has made great progress in connecting households to piped water supplies; however, the collection and treatment of domestic wastewater has lagged. This infrastructural gap may be accelerating the spread of ABR into surface waters used downstream for irrigation. We studied the contributions of a small town in Ecuador to the prevalence of extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing Escherichia coli in a glacial stream used for irrigating crops. The study analyzed water samples upstream (n = 60) and downstream (n = 60) of the town of Píntag as well as 30 lettuce samples irrigated by surface waters downstream of the town. A subset of third generation cephalosporin resistant E. coli (3GCR‐EC) isolates (n = 58) were sequenced to characterize antibiotic resistance genes and pathogenic lineages. Our results showed that there was nearly a three‐log increase in mean E. coli colony forming units in the downstream samples versus upstream. At the upstream sites above the town of Píntag, 6.7% of water samples were positive for 3GCR‐EC compared to 100% of samples collected at the downstream sites. Additionally, 70.1% of sequenced 3GCR‐EC isolates collected at downstream sites carried blaCTX‐M genes and 3.4% belonged to pandemic lineages ST131 and ST10. As countries develop household piped water infrastructure, attention should focus on how the lack of domestic wastewater collection and treatment may accelerate the spread of ABR in waterways and the food system.
Bacterial extracellular vesicles as intranasal postbiotics: Detailed characterization and interaction with airway cells
Authors: Razim Agnieszka , Zabłocka Agnieszka , Schmid Anna , Thaler Michael , Černý Viktor , Weinmayer Tamara , Whitehead Bradley , Martens Anke , Skalska Magdalena , Morandi Mattia , Schmidt Katy , Wysmołek Magdalena E. , Végvári Akos , Srutkova Dagmar , Schwarzer Martin , Neuninger Lukas , Nejsum Peter , Hrdý Jiri , Palmfeldt Johan , Brucale Marco , Valle Francesco , Górska Sabina , Wisgrill Lukas , Inic‐Kanada Aleksandra , Wiedermann Ursula , Schabussova Irma
Published: October 2024

Escherichia coli A0 34/86 (EcO83) is a probiotic strain used in newborns to prevent nosocomial infections and diarrhoea. This bacterium stimulates both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokine production and its intranasal administration reduces allergic airway inflammation in mice. Despite its benefits, there are concerns about the use of live probiotic bacteria due to potential systemic infections and gene transfer. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from EcO83 (EcO83‐EVs) might offer a safer alternative to live bacteria. This study characterizes EcO83‐EVs and investigates their interaction with host cells, highlighting their potential as postbiotic therapeutics. EcO83‐EVs were isolated, purified, and characterised following the Minimal Information of Studies of Extracellular Vesicles (MISEV) guidelines. Ex vivo studies conducted in human nasal epithelial cells showed that EcO83‐EVs increased the expression of proteins linked to oxidative stress and inflammation, indicating an effective interaction between EVs and the host cells. Further in vivo studies in mice demonstrated that EcO83‐EVs interact with nasal‐associated lymphoid tissue, are internalised by airway macrophages, and stimulate neutrophil recruitment in the lung. Mechanistically, EcO83‐EVs activate the NF‐κΒ signalling pathway, resulting in the nitric oxide production. EcO83‐EVs demonstrate significant potential as a postbiotic alternative to live bacteria, offering a safer option for therapeutic applications. Further research is required to explore their clinical use, particularly in mucosal vaccination and targeted immunotherapy strategies.
Geochronology and ice‐flow modelling of the Late Quaternary glaciers on Mt. Soğanlı, Türkiye
Authors: Sarıkaya M. A. , Candaş A. , Ege İ. , Wilcken K. M.
Published: October 2024

Understanding Earth's climate history through the chronology and reconstruction of palaeoglaciers is a central topic of palaeoclimatology. Examining the remnants of past glaciations preserved in isolated alpine environments provides insight into critical palaeoclimatic conditions. Accurate dating techniques, such as terrestrial cosmogenic nuclides, are crucial for understanding the timing of these changes. The Anatolian Peninsula, characterized by diverse topographical and climatic factors, witnessed the presence of glaciers during the Late Pleistocene, shaping its alpine landscape significantly. While mountain ranges such as the Taurus and Pontic favoured glacier development due to their elevation and lower temperatures, isolated mountains such as Mount Soğanlı in the interior hinterland also supported significant palaeoglaciers. Despite previous studies on Anatolia's glaciers, numerical dating of glacial deposits on Mount Soğanlı has remained elusive until now, hindering precise palaeoclimatic interpretations. This study employs cosmogenic 36Cl surface exposure dating and physical‐based ice‐flow modelling using an open‐source framework, Parallel Ice Sheet Model (PISM), to determine the timing of glaciations and to reconstruct past glacier extents on Mount Soğanlı. The results reveal glacier retreat ages of 48.3 ± 13.4 and 18.3 ± 4.4 ka based on two well‐preserved moraines. Additionally, palaeoclimate simulations matched with the field observations indicate considerably colder conditions (6.65–8.15°C colder than today) necessary to sustain glaciers on Mount Soğanlı, when precipitation amounts were the same as today. These findings contribute to a better understanding of Anatolia's palaeoclimatic fluctuations and align with similar studies in neighbouring regions, enhancing our knowledge of past climate dynamics of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.
Zero‐echo‐time sequences in highly inhomogeneous fields
Authors: Borreguero Jose , Galve Fernando , Algarín José M. , Alonso Joseba
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Zero‐echo‐time (ZTE) sequences have proven a powerful tool for MRI of ultrashort tissues, but they fail to produce useful images in the presence of strong field inhomogeneities (14 000 ppm). Here we seek a method to correct reconstruction artifacts from non‐Cartesian acquisitions in highly inhomogeneous , where the standard double‐shot gradient‐echo approach to field mapping fails.

Methods

We present a technique based on magnetic field maps obtained from two geometric distortion‐free point‐wise (SPRITE) acquisitions. To this end, we employ three scanners with varying field homogeneities. These maps are used for model‐based image reconstruction with iterative algebraic techniques (ART). For comparison, the same prior information is fed also to widely used Conjugate Phase (CP) algorithms.

Results

Distortions and artifacts coming from severe inhomogeneities, at the level of the encoding gradient, are largely reverted by our method, as opposed to CP reconstructions. This holds even close to the limit where intra‐voxel bandwidths (determined by inhomogeneities, up to 1.2 kHz) are comparable to the encoding inter‐voxel bandwidth (determined by the gradient fields, 625 Hz in this work).

Conclusion

We have benchmarked the performance of a new method for ZTE imaging in highly inhomogeneous magnetic fields. For example, this can be exploited for dental imaging in affordable low‐field MRI systems, and can be expanded for arbitrary pulse sequences and extreme magnet geometries, as in, for example, single‐sided MRI.
A New Method for Determining the Safety Distance Between Irregular Karst Cave and Circumferential Shield Tunnel
Authors: Zhang Yanhuan , Sun Shangqu , Wang Jing , Li Liping , Sun Zizheng , Chen Diyang , Men Yanqing
Published: October 2024

When a shield tunnel passes through a karst area, the water‐filled cave can easily make the surrounding rock metamorphic, resulting in water inrush, ground collapse, and shield machine failure and other engineering hazards. Natural cavities have a significant degree of geometric irregularity due to groundwater alteration and soluble rock erosion. Considering the difficulties in describing the shape of a natural irregular cavity, circular, rectangular, and elliptical geometries have been simplified in most related studies. Based on the upper bound theorem of limit analysis, we established a three‐dimensional failure model including the karst caves located directly above and below the circumferential side of the tunnel. Then, we deduced the corresponding analytical solution of the critical safety distance (CSD). Furthermore, the effects of rock mass parameters, cave parameters, and geometric parameters on the CSD were analyzed. Then we designed the numerical simulation considering the irregular geometry shape at the circumferential side of tunnel using the Fourier descriptors. In addition, we estimated the CSDs for two failure models using the revised dichotomy and failure criterion. The findings demonstrated a quantifiable association between CSD and Fourier descriptors of irregular cave shape, resulting in the development of a CSD prediction model. These test results can provide a theoretical foundation and direction for predicting water inrush caused by the constrained irregular cave.
An LQR‐Lagrange Algorithm Generated by Interdisciplinary Integration With Optimal Control and Optimization
Authors: An Molin , Han Xueshan
Published: October 2024

Interdisciplinary integration is a superior method to improve the optimization algorithm. In this paper, control theory and optimization are combined, and the optimization algorithm is regarded as a control process. Based on the premise of optimal control, the state equation corresponding to Lagrange Algorithm is established with the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) conditions as the objective. As an optimal control method, linear quadratic regulator (LQR) is utilized to control the calculation process, and an innovative LQR‐Lagrange Algorithm is proposed. The Lyapunov stability criterion is applied to analyze the convergence, and it is proved that the proposed LQR‐Lagrange Algorithm is bound to converge as long as the parameter matrices and are positive definite. The analysis indicates that the influence of parameters in LQR‐Lagrange Algorithm on the calculation speed is monotonic, and the elements in and has no effect on the convergence. Therefore, the proposed algorithm has a monotonic and user‐friendly parameter tuning strategy. It perfectly tackles the game between parameter tuning strategy and calculation speed, and cracks the difficulties and dilemmas of conventional algorithms in this issue, realizing a win‐win situation.
Veteran Affairs disability compensation: Likely the U.S.’s largest disability program, but what do we know about its impacts on service‐disabled veterans?
Authors: Armour Philip , Gadwah‐Meaden Catria
Published: October 2024

The last few decades have seen rapid growth in the size of the Veterans Affairs Disability Compensation (VADC) program, which provides tax‐free cash benefits to veterans with disabilities connected to military service. Given this recent growth, VADC is on pace to eclipse Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to become the largest U.S. disability program by expenditures. Although there are decades of causal research on the design and impacts of SSDI, there is no comparable body of evidence for VADC. In this Policy Insight, we discuss how causal evidence was produced for Social Security‐administered disability programs and why there is a lack of this evidence for VADC. Chief among the explanations is a lack of VADC data access available to the broader researcher community, access that Social Security facilitates for the programs it administers. However, even with this access, the proliferation of benefits and services targeted to service‐disabled veterans implies that existing earnings loss studies and causal estimates of the impact of VADC benefit receipt on any given outcome of interest likely are mismeasurements of true effects. We conclude with recommendations for restructuring approaches to research design to accurately estimate impacts of VADC benefits as well as the wide array of other programs supporting service‐disabled veterans.
Denoising sphere‐valued data by relaxed total variation regularization
Authors: Beinert Robert , Bresch Jonas
Published: October 2024

Circle‐ and sphere‐valued data play a significant role in inverse problems like magnetic resonance phase imaging and radar interferometry, in the analysis of directional information, and in color restoration tasks. In this paper, we aim to restore ‐sphere‐valued signals exploiting the classical anisotropic total variation on the surrounding ‐dimensional Euclidean space. For this, we propose a novel variational formulation, whose data fidelity is based on inner products instead of the usually employed squared norms. Convexifying the resulting non‐convex problem and using ADMM, we derive an efficient and fast numerical denoiser. In the special case of binary (0‐sphere‐valued) signals, the relaxation is provable tight, that is, the relaxed solution can be used to construct a solution of the original non‐convex problem. Moreover, the tightness can be numerically observed for barcode and QR code denoising as well as in higher dimensional experiments like the color restoration using hue and chromaticity and the recovery of SO(3)‐valued signals.
A new Legendre polynomial approach for computing the matrix exponential action on a vector
Authors: Pozza Stefano , Zahid Shazma
Published: October 2024

We propose a new approach for computing the action of the matrix exponential over a vector. The approach is based on a Legendre polynomial expansion in the framework of the so‐called ‐product solution to ODEs. The new approach can be combined with Krylov subspace methods.
Agricultural legacy shapes plant diversity patterns in mountain grasslands of Maramureș and Bukovina: A cross‐border perspective (Ukraine, Romania)
Authors: Janišová Monika , Magnes Martin , Bojko Igor , Borsukevych Liubov M. , Budzhak Vasyl V. , Chorney Illya , Iuga Anamaria , Ivașcu Cosmin Marius , Kish Roman , Kuzemko Anna , Palpurina Salza , Skokanová Katarína , Širka Pavel , Tokaryuk Alla , Dayneko Polina
Published: October 2024

We investigated farming practices and grassland plant diversity patterns in the historical regions of Maramureș and Bukovina, located in the central Eastern Carpathians of Romania and Ukraine. We explored the influence of social and historical factors on recent grassland plant diversity, including changes and modifications in land use and grassland management practices.

We used stratified random sampling to select 48 grassland parcels in eight villages on the Ukrainian‐Romanian borderlands. We identified the factors that affect the composition and diversity of grassland vascular plants and bryophytes at multiple spatial scales and compared the frequency and timing of historical and recent grassland management practices to distinguish between preserved and modified agricultural traditions.

In most of the grassland parcels studied (83% in Romania and 78% in Ukraine), traditional land use persisted. Local plant species richness was primarily influenced by management practices, outweighing the impact of topography and soil factors. Regular mowing at appropriate intensity increased the richness of vascular plants, while grazing promoted the richness of bryophyte species. Modifications to farming systems, observed in all studied villages, were mainly due to declining population and livestock numbers. Although the timing of spring and autumn grazing in hay meadows still adhered to tradition, mowing schedules shifted earlier, especially for the first cut of two‐cut hay meadows. Traditional corralling, fertilization and hayseed application have become rare or discontinued in certain villages, while controlled burning has increased. Past use of mineral fertilizers in Ukrainian villages during the Soviet era influenced the recent diversity and composition of vascular plant species, favouring nutrient‐demanding species.

Social factors and agricultural policies indirectly affect biodiversity in semi‐natural grasslands, leaving a tangible footprint even in the most remote areas of the Carpathian Mountains. We provide basic recommendations to preserve the remarkable biodiversity of the region.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Electrically Conductive Lignin Reinforced Polyacrylic Acid/Hyaluronic Acid Scaffolds With PEDOT:HA Nanoparticles
Authors: Winters Caitriona , Carsi Marta , Sanchis Maria J. , Culebras Mario , Collins Maurice N.
Published: October 2024

Hydrogel materials are continually developing in biomedical engineering and recently a lot of effort has gone into their engineered performance in physiological applications. Porosity is an important characteristic for tissue engineering scaffolds to allow enhanced biocompatibility and the pore size needed is dependent on the application and type of tissue for which the hydrogel is being used to regenerate. Regarding biomedical applications, the use of conducting polymers is gaining in popularity due to their promising biocompatibility and potential to stimulate cell growth and proliferation through electrical stimulation. Building on previous hydrogel development by the authors, this study focuses on developing a biocompatible hydrogel scaffold with adjustable porosity and swelling capabilities, robust mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, and high thermal stability. The objective of this work is to examine the effect of freezing temperature, cross‐linker and porosity on the final characteristics of the scaffold and to then determine possible applications. The porosity, swelling degree, compression strength, biocompatibility, electrical conductivity, and thermal characteristics of the final material were analyzed and were found to be affected by the varied synthesis methods used. Overall, the synthesized scaffolds exhibit good biocompatibility with increased fluorescence over 3 days and over 70% cell viability, thermal stability up to 200°C and a range of swelling of 1725% to 8472%. They also portray robust mechanical properties with a Young's Moduli range of 11 kPa to 4.54 MPa and a porosity range of 0.78–71.98 μm depending on the synthesis methods used. Through variations in synthesis methods, highly porous, absorbent, and stable scaffolds have been synthesized. Notably, this single recipe is highly tailorable for use in a range of biomedical applications from tissue engineering to drug delivery and wound repair.
A Novel Approach to the Development of Natural Resin‐Based Biopolymer in the Presence of a Reusable Catalyst: Characterization and Modeling of Material Properties
Authors: Angın Naile , Ertaş Murat , Aras Ömür , Genç Merve
Published: October 2024

The rise in environmental and health concerns has led to increasing attention to nature‐derived materials. Natural resin (NR) is secreted by pine trees, and it is a great monomer source for synthesizing biopolymers. The objective of this study is to produce terpene rosin phenolic resin (TRPR) from NR, turpentine, and phenol by applying a novel polymerization technique. An environmentally friendly and reusable catalyst (Amberlyst15) was chosen instead of traditional ones. TRPR samples were chemically characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) analysis. The average molecular weight (Mw) of TRPR was detected as 560 g/mol. Artificial neural network (ANN) modeling was designed with three inputs (pressure, temperature, and terpene/NR ratio) and four outputs (reaction yield, acid value, saponification value, and softening point). The highest TRPR yield was obtained with a terpene/NR ratio of (1/2) at 80°C and under 3 atm. The lowest acid and saponification values were calculated as 90.54 and 100.11 mg KOH/g, respectively. The softening point of TRPR reached 80°C and it was suggested for use in the paper, ink, and adhesive industries.
Engineering Budesonide Microparticles for Enhancing Pulmonary Targeting: Validation through In Vivo Investigations
Authors: Kumar Jahanvee Ashok , Verma Srashti , Patel Snehal , Gupta Nikita , Patel Mahendra , Kharidia Tapan , Gangadia Bhavin , Butani Shital
Published: October 2024

The study aimed to develop and evaluate budesonide inhalation micro‐suspension to target inflammation in the lower trachea and bronchi. Initially, the slurry phase is prepared by dispersing the drug (0.25 and 0.5 mg ml−1) in the Water for Injection with polysorbate 80. The slurry is mixed with the aqueous phase comprising other excipients. The mixture is further subjected to the treatment with homogenizer. The prepared formulations are subjected to various physio‐chemical analysis like description, density, pH, osmolality, viscosity, shelf life, impurities, assay, particle size, etc. Andersen cascade impactor is used to estimate the aerodynamic performance. In vivo analysis is initiated with the induction of Asthma in Sprague Dawley rats by ovalbumin challenge intranasally and the treatment is given with the aid of a nebulizer. Lastly, the biochemical estimations are carried out in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The lungs are also subjected to morphological and histological evaluations. The physio‐chemical and analytical examination indicated a stable formulation that is compliant with the standard guidelines. The D90 value of the test formulation is ≤4.5 µm. Cascade impactor evaluation estimated almost, 2–10% higher amount of budesonide reaching the target region as compared to the marketed product. Test formulation attenuated the manifestation of ovalbumin‐induced asthma through suppression of inflammatory cell count in blood and BALF, and modulation of Lactate dehydrogenase and Alkaline Phosphatase levels which is further confirmed by histopathological analysis. The formulated budesonide micro‐suspension demonstrated stability, safety, and efficient delivery to the target site.
Rapid Synthesis of Uniformly Small Nickel Nanoparticles for the Surface Functionalization of Epitaxial Graphene
Authors: Vlamidis Ylea , Forti Stiven , Rossi Antonio , Marinelli Carmela , Coletti Camilla , Heun Stefan , Veronesi Stefano
Published: October 2024

Nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs) combined with carbon nanomaterials are of significant interest due to their wide range of applications, including catalysis, hydrogen storage, and sensor technologies. However, it is challenging to develop an efficient process to produce small and stable Ni NPs ideal for functionalizing graphene or substrates with complex geometries. For this purpose, a rapid, simple, and cost‐effective method is presented for synthesizing uniformly small Ni NPs. The process involves cooling aqueous solutions of Ni(OAc)2 and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) to ≈1 °C, followed by the rapid addition of NaBH4. Crucial parameters, such as temperature and stirring rate, are precisely controlled to ensure uniform particle growth, with the reaction completing in just a few minutes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) characterizations reveal spherical NPs with an average diameter of ≈11 nm and a narrow size distribution. Additionally, epitaxial graphene (EG) samples are functionalized with the synthesized NPs and their arrangement on the surface and their stability upon thermal annealing are investigated. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) measurements demonstrate the degradation of CTAB, along with the recovery of Ni(0) under mild conditions (below 350 °C), with the NPs maintaining structural stability up to approximately 550 °C.
Corn Stover Lignin as a Solid Acid Catalyst for the Esterification of Oleic Acid
Authors: Hamilton Aisha , Pains Duarte Michelle , Naccache Rafik
Published: October 2024

The catastrophic ramifications of fossil fuels on the environment have prompted the search for renewable energy sources. Over the recent decades, biodiesel has garnered attention as a promising direct alternative to diesel fuel; however, reliance on homogeneous catalysts and the requirement for refined vegetable oil feedstocks present financial and sustainability concerns. Thus, there exists a need for the development of sustainable and cost‐effective catalytic solutions. Herein, the application of lignin, an abundant and renewable biomass, as an effective heterogeneous catalyst is reported for biodiesel production via the esterification of oleic acid. Lignin is extracted from corn straw using sulfuric acid, which endows sulfonic acid groups (0.85 mmol g−1) to its structure allowing it to act as an acid catalyst without additional post‐treatments. Conversion of oleic oil to biodiesel is achieved at 97% using a 1:3 oleic acid to methanol molar ratio with a 5 wt.% catalyst loading at 90 °C after only 30 min. Moreover, the catalyst exhibits a remarkable turnover frequency of 2.61 min−1 proving its efficiency. These findings demonstrate that heterogeneous catalysts can be prepared from biomass waste offering a significantly cheaper and less intensive synthesis process and allowing for a paradigm shift to non‐edible and waste cooking oils.
2D‐MoX2 (X = S, Se, Te) and Their Nanocomposite Toward Sensing Application: A Review
Authors: Mohan Bitupan , Boruah Ujjibit , Sonkar Rahul , Mondal Nur Jalal , Chowdhury Devasish
Published: October 2024

2D materials, owing to their nearly atomic thickness, have emerged as promising candidates across a broad spectrum of next‐generation devices and systems. In the post‐graphene era, molybdenum‐based dichalcogenides (MoX2, where X = S, Se, Te), possessing a graphene‐like structure, represent one of the most promising subsets among 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) due to their extensively researched and distinctive electronic, optical, and mechanical properties. Further with their distinct properties of different phases (2H, 1T) make it attractive for both fundamental and applied research. It finds diverse applications, spanning from optoelectronics to catalysis and sensor development. In this review article, the unique crystal structural properties of MoX2 are highlighted and their different synthesis methods, incorporating recent advancements in synthesis approaches discussed. Subsequently the recent development of MoX2 nanocomposite based on carbon, metal, metal oxide and various polymer discussed. Finally, the key challenges impeding the advancement of sensing applications and propose avenues for future development, drawing upon the current progress in 2D MoX2 and their nanocomposites also find mention in this review.
Protein kinase D1 mitigation against etoposide induced DNA damage in prostate cancer is associated with increased α‐Catenin
Authors: Shukla Sanjeev , Osumi Teruko , Al‐Toubat Mohammed , Serrano Samuel , Singh Pankaj kumar , Mietzsch Mario , McKenna Robert , Chardon‐Robles Jonathan , Krishnan Sunil , Balaji K. C.
Published: October 2024

Background

The E‐cadherin, α‐ and β‐Catenin interaction at the cell adherens junction plays a key role in cell adhesion; alteration in the expression and function of these genes are associated with disease progression in several solid tumors including prostate cancer. The membranous β‐Catenin is dynamically linked to the cellular cytoskeleton through interaction with α‐Catenin at amino acid positions threonine 120 (T120) to 151 of β‐Catenin. Nuclear presence of α‐Catenin modulates the sensitivity of cells to DNA damage. The objective of this study is to determine the role of α‐Catenin and protein kinase D1 (PrKD1) in DNA damage response.

Methods

Prostate cancer cells; LNCaP, LNCaP (Sh‐PrKD1; silenced PrKD1), C4‐2 and C4‐2 PrKD1 were used for various sets of experiments to determine the role of DNA damage in PrKD1 overexpression and silencing cells. These cells were treated with compound‐10 (100 nM) and Etoposide (30 µM), total cell lysates, cytosolic and nuclear fractions were prepared to observe various protein expressions. We performed single cell gel electrophoresis (COMET assay) to determine the etoposide induce DNA damage in C4‐2 and C4‐2 PrKD1 cells. The animal experiments were carried out to determine the tolerability of compound‐10 by mice and generate preliminary data on efficacy of compound‐10 in modulating the α‐Catenin and PrKD1 expressions in inhibiting tumor progression.

Results

PrKD1, a novel serine threonine kinase, phosphorylates β‐Catenin T120. In silico analysis, confirmed that T120 phosphorylation alters β‐ to α‐Catenin binding. Forced expression of PrKD1 in prostate cancer cells increased β‐ and α‐Catenin protein levels associated with reduced etoposide induced DNA damage. Downregulation of α‐Catenin abrogates the PrKD1 mitigation of DNA damage. The in vitro results were corroborated in vivo using mouse prostate cancer patient derived xenograft model by inhibition of PrKD1 kinase activity with compound‐10, a selective PrKD inhibitor, demonstrating decreased total β‐ and α‐Catenin protein levels, and β‐Catenin T120 phosphorylation.

Conclusions

Alteration in DNA damage response pathways play major role in prostate cancer progression. The study identifies a novel mechanism of α‐Catenin dependent DNA damage mitigation role for PrKD1 in prostate cancer.
Tumor Microenvironment Cascade Activated Biodegradable Nano‐Enzymes for Glutathione‐Depletion and Ultrasound‐Enhanced Chemodynamic Therapy
Authors: Wen Xingwang , Wang Chunxia , Bi Shenghui , Xu Yao , Wu Zezheng , Huang Hao , Liu Zhiqiu , Zeng Songjun
Published: October 2024

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is emerged as a novel and promising tumor therapy by using the powerful reactive oxygen species (ROS) to kill cancer cells. However, the current CDT is remarkably inhibited due to insufficient H2O2 supply and over‐expression of glutathione (GSH) in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, a biodegradable self‐supplying H2O2 nano‐enzyme of CuO2@CaP with a GSH‐consumption effect is designed for cascade enhanced CDT to overcome the problem of H2O2 deficiency and GSH overexpression. In this design, CuO2@CaP is gradually degraded to Ca2+, Cu2+, and H2O2 in acidic TME, resulting in synergistically enhanced CDT owing to the efficient self‐supplied H2O2 and GSH‐depletion and Ca2+ overload therapy. Interestingly, the faster degradation of CuO2@CaP and promoted production rate of •OH are further achieved after triggering with ultrasound (US). And, the US‐enhanced CDT and Ca2+ overload synergistic antitumor therapy is successfully achieved in vivo. These findings provide a promising strategy for designing biodegradable nano‐enzymes with self‐supplying H2O2 and GSH consumption for US‐mediated CDT.
Ni(II) Cylinders Damage DNA in Cancer Cells and Preferentially Bind Y‐Shaped DNA Three‐Way Junctions Blocking DNA Synthesis
Authors: Malina Jaroslav , Kostrhunova Hana , Brabec Viktor
Published: October 2024

DNA three‐way junctions are critical in various biological processes and hold significant potential for disease treatment and therapeutic applications. In this study, it is demonstrated that triple‐stranded dinuclear [Ni2L3]4+ cylinders (L = C25H20N4) exhibit a preferential binding affinity for Y‐shaped DNA three‐way junctions (3WJs), even in the presence of an excess of competing DNA structures, including G‐quadruplexes. Notably, the investigated Ni(II) cylinders are capable of halting DNA synthesis catalyzed by DNA polymerase by stabilizing the 3WJ on the template strand. Using an extended 1D nanoarchitecture model, it is further established the high affinity and selectivity of the cylinders for DNA 3WJs and explored their potential application in stabilizing short‐armed 3WJs for constructing DNA nanomaterials. The combined use of Ni(II) cylinders and DNA damage response inhibitors also revealed that the cylinders promote DNA damage, leading to the formation of double‐strand breaks. This effect is likely associated with i) the binding of cylinders to 3WJs and ii) the cytotoxic activity of the cylinders in cancer cells.
A New Organic Laser Material Design Toward Ultra‐Low Amplified Spontaneous Red Emission and Ultra‐Bright Electroluminescence
Authors: Wallwork Nicholle R. , Shukla Atul , Roseli Ras Baizureen , Allison Ilene , McGregor Sarah K. M. , Coles Max , Gale Innes , Rahane Vijay P. , Entoma Volter , Moore Evan G. , Krenske Elizabeth H. , Namdas Ebinazar B. , Lo Shih‐Chun
Published: October 2024

Significant efforts are dedicated to developing new classes of organic semiconductor materials to achieve electrically pumped lasing. However, further advancements are necessary to understand the relationship between the structure and property for the creation of innovative laser materials with high stability, low triplet yield, ultra‐low lasing threshold, and low‐efficiency roll‐off at ultra‐bright electroluminescence. Here, a new design principle is validated for organic semiconductor laser materials, demonstrating simultaneous enhancement in the key figures of merit of low amplified spontaneous emission thresholds (Eth), efficient electroluminescence, and low triplet yields. By applying the Einstein stimulated emission rate equation and Strickler–Berg approximation, Two red‐emitting laser dimers of Cibalackrot with different linkers are constructed, leading to giant enhancement (≈250%) in oscillator strengths, and stimulated emission cross‐sections. When blended in poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorene‐alt‐benzothiadiazole), the new dimers achieve an ultra‐low Eth (4.5 ± 0.3 µJ cm−2) in the deep red region (λASE = 655 nm), among the lowest reported for deep‐red emitters. Organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) utilizing the dimer blend exhibit low‐efficiency roll‐off under DC mode. Under pulse operation, the OLEDs achieve high current densities (90 A m−2) and ultrahigh brightness (≈710 000 cd m−2). These findings highlight the dimerization design as an excellent platform to advance organic semiconductor laser materials.
Developing Rapid‐Charging Li‐S Batteries via “Target Catalysis” of Cations and Anions Modified Electrocatalyst
Authors: Liu Junliang , Sun Tingting , Yu Hao , Huang Fangduo , Feng Xinyan , Feng Xuefan , Zang Qisheng , Shan Youping , Zhang Fuqin
Published: October 2024

The shuttle effect and sluggish sulfur reduction reaction have resulted in significantly low efficiency and poor high current cycling stability in lithium‐sulfur batteries, impeding their practical applications. To address these challenges, the introduction of Ni cations into MoS2 grown on reduced graphene oxide (MoS2/rGO) induces the formation of impurity energy levels between the conduction and valence bands of MoS2. Additionally, the introduction of anionic Se expands the interlayer spacing, enhances intrinsic conductivity, and improves ion diffusion rates. Simultaneously introducing anionic and cationic species into the MoS2/rGO causes the center of the d‐band to shift upward, reducing the occupancy of electrons in antibonding orbitals. This modification leads to a rearrangement of the electronic structure of Mo, accelerating the redox reactions of lithium polysulfides. It particularly enhances the binding energy and lowers the conversion energy barrier of Li2S4. Consequently, the Li||S coin cell with the Ni‐MoSSe/rGO cathode demonstrates an initial capacity of 446 mAh g−1 at 20 C, with a remarkable capacity retention of ≈96.7% after 200 cycles. Moreover, even under high sulfur loading conditions (6.45 mg cm−2) and a low electrolyte/sulfur ratio (5.4 µL mg−2), it maintains a high areal capacity of 6.42 mAh cm−2.
Enabling the Transport Dynamics and Interfacial Stability of Porous Si Anode Via Rigid and Flexible Carbon Encapsulation for High‐Energy Lithium Storage
Authors: Cheng Zhongling , Lin Huanhao , Liu Yueming , Li Jihao , Jiang Hao , Zhang Haijiao
Published: October 2024

The stable electrode/electrolyte interface and fast electron/ion transport channel play important roles in boosting the rate performance and cycling life of lithium‐ion batteries. Herein, a porous silicon/carbon composite (pSi@PC@MC) is presented by integrating hollow porous silicon (pSi) with pitch‐derived carbon (PC) and dopamine‐derived mesoporous carbon (MC), employing microporous zeolite as the silicon source. The finite element simulation first reveals the stress release effect of rigid and flexible carbon encapsulation on the hollow Si anode for lithium‐ion storage. In situ and ex situ characterization results further elucidate that hybrid sp2/sp3 carbon coating greatly enhances the liquid/solid interface stability and the compatibility with the electrolyte, as well as facilitates the electron/ion transmission dynamics, achieving a uniform, stable, and LiF‐rich SEI film, ultimately improving the lithium storage performance. As expected, the as‐designed pSi@PC@MC anode delivers an impressive rate capability (756.6 mAh g−1 at 6 A g−1) and excellent cycling stability with a capacity of 1650 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at 0.2 A g−1. Meanwhile, the pSi@PC@MC//NCM811 full‐cell exhibits an outstanding cycling stability (75.8% capacity retention after 100 cycles). This study highlights the significance of rational porous design and effective hybrid carbon encapsulation for the development of fast‐charging Si/carbon anodes.
OH Regulator of Amorphous CrOx on Defect‐Rich Ultrafine Pd Nanowires Boosts Electrocatalytic Ethanol Oxidation
Authors: Zhou Xiaotong , Liu Songliang , Teng Huaifang , Ma Kun , Miao Weixin , Cui Xuejing , Zhou Xin , Jiang Luhua
Published: October 2024

Reasonable construction of high activity and selectivity electrocatalysts is crucial to achieve efficient ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). However, the oxidation of ethanol tends to produce CO species that poison the active centers of the EOR electrocatalysts. Herein, a unique amorphous CrOx‐protected defect‐rich ultrafine Pd nanowires (CrOx‐Pd NWs) is developed. On the one hand, the CrOx layer can act as a protective layer to maintain the structure of the nanowire. On the other hand, it can play the role of OH regulator to optimize the adsorption energy barrier of intermediate species in Pd nanowire, thereby enhancing the ability of the catalyst to resist CO poisoning. The CrOx‐Pd NWs exhibit excellent EOR performance with 3.64 times higher mass activity and 50 mV lower CO electro‐oxidation potential than commercial Pd black. The results show that the CrOx layer promotes the dissociation of H2O into OHads, while the CrOx transfers electrons to neighboring Pd atoms optimizing the electronic configuration of Pd, thus selectively oxidizing ethanol to acetate and preventing the formation of toxic *CO. This work provides an effective strategy for the synthesis of nanowire materials with oxide/metal interfaces and offers new ideas for the design of catalysts that can efficiently drive EOR.
Morphology Optimization by Non‐Halogenated and Twisted Volatile Solid Additive for High‐Efficiency Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Linze , Yun Maojin , Qin Jianqiang , Huang Sihao , Ou Zeping , Li Qian , Wang Xiaowu , Yuan Wenqian , Dong Li , Cheng Xi , Yang Yingguo , Zheng Yujie , Sun Kuan , Zhang Zeyu , Hu Zhiping , Liu Zhengzheng , Leng Yuxin , Du Juan
Published: October 2024

Recently, volatile solid additives have attracted tremendous interest in the field of organic solar cells (OSCs), which can effectively improve device efficiency without sacrificing the reproducibility and stability of the device. However, the structure of reported solid additives is onefold and its working mechanism needs to be further investigated. Herein, a novel non‐halogenated and twisted solid additive 1,4‐diphenoxybenzene (DPB) is employed to optimize the morphology of the active layer in OSCs. The properties of additive DPB, morphology of active layer, and carrier dynamics behaviors have been systematically investigated through theoretical calculations, in situ and ex situ spectroscopy, grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (GIWAXS), and grazing‐incidence small‐angle X‐ray scattering (GISAXS) measurement, as well as ultrafast spectroscopy technology. The results reveal that the twisted additive DPB selectively interacts with acceptor Y6, and thus forms optimized morphology of active layer with increased molecular crystallinity, tight molecular packing, and favorable phase separation. As a result, the optimized devices deliver a remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.04%, which is the highest value for the D18‐Cl:N3 system to date. These results demonstrate that non‐halogenated and twisted solid additive DPB has broad prospects in the preparation of highly efficient OSCs, providing theoretical and experimental guidance for the development of high‐performance solid additives.