bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Antioxidant Potential of Hen Egg White Lysozyme N-acetylmuramide Glycan Hydrolase in Full Fat Mozzarella Cheese
Authors: Saleem Iqra , Gulzar Nabila , Nadeem Muhammad
Published: April 2023

To explore the antioxidant potential of hen egg white lysozyme N-acetylmuramide Glycan hydrolase in full fat Mozzarella cheese, an experiment was conducted where control sample was brined without the addition of lysozyme; while four samples were brined along with 0.02%;w/v (T1), 0.04%;w/v (T2), 0.06%;w/v (T3) and 0.08%;w/v (T4) lysozyme. The antioxidant potential of hen egg white lysozyme in full fat Mozzarella cheese samples were measured through several methods, including 2, 2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid assay (ABTS), 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, superoxide radical scavenging activity (PMS-NADH system), free fatty acid analysis and lipid peroxidation inhibition assay in a linoleic acid emulsion system. Intensity scale was used to evaluate the sensory characteristics of cheese. The results showed the percentage inhibition for DPPH, ABTS and superoxide anion activity in control sample increased up to 30 days; but decreased afterwards till 40 days of storage However in case of lysozyme treated samples % inhibition increased throughout storage. Free fatty acid % in full fat Mozzarella cheese was affected by lysozyme and storage days. Lipid peroxidation inhibitory activity in α-linoleic acid model system of lysozyme added samples showed lower absorbance at 500 nm showing higher lipid peroxidation inhibition. Furthermore, it was observed that absorbance was decreased till 30 days of storage which increased further upto 40 days storage period. The study showed that addition of lysozyme improved the shelf life and sensory characteristics of full fat Mozzarella cheese.

Keywords: Lysozyme, Antioxidants, N-acetylmuramide Glycan Hydrolase, Full fat Mozzarella cheese,
Inorganic–Organic Hybrid Dielectrics for Energy Conversion: Mechanism, Strategy, and Applications
Authors: Wu Fan , Xie Aming , Jiang Lai , Mukherjee Soumya , Gao Han , Shi Jiaoyan , Wu Jiale , Shang Hongcheng , Sheng Zhengxiao , Guo Ronghui , Wu Lipeng , Liu Jun , Suss Matthew E. , Terzis Alexandros , Li Weijin , Zeng Haibo
Published: April 2023

Dielectric materials with higher energy storage and electromagnetic (EM) energy conversion are in high demand to advance electronic devices, military stealth, and mitigate EM wave pollution. Existing dielectric materials for high‐energy‐storage electronics and dielectric loss electromagnetic wave absorbers are studied toward realizing these goals, each aligned with the current global grand challenges. Libraries of dielectric materials with desirable permittivity, dielectric loss, and/or dielectric breakdown strength potentially meeting the device requirements are reviewed here. Regardless, aimed at translating these into energy storage devices, the oft‐encountered shortcomings can be caused by either of two confluences: a) low permittivity, high dielectric loss, and low breakdown strength; b) low permittivity, low dielectric loss, and process complexity. Contextualizing these aspects and the overarching objectives of enabling high‐efficiency energy storage and EM energy conversion, recent advances in by‐design inorganic–organic hybrid materials are reviewed here, with a focus on design approaches, preparation methods, and characterization techniques. In light of their strengths and weaknesses, potential strategies to foster their commercial adoption are critically interrogated.
Cuttlebone‐Derived Organic Matrix: A Facile Periosteum Substitute for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wei Yuanqing , Ju Miaomiao , Zheng Fei , Wei Shuang , Han Shuying , Lu Shengfeng , Liu Rui , Wu Hao
Published: April 2023

Artificial periosteum has become a novel strategy for bone healing. Several efforts are made to develop novel periosteum substitutes with excellent osteogenesis and angiogenesis performance. The problem, however, is that many inconveniences, such as unattainable materials and complex preparation processes, limit its clinical application. In this study, cuttlebone‐derived organic matrix (CDOM) film is developed as a facile obtained artificial periosteum with good bioactivity, biodegradability, and biosafety. In this study, CDOM films are prepared by etching calcium carbonate of cuttlebone with hydrochloric acid (HCl), phosphoric acid (H3PO4), and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), respectively. CDOM films possess “S” oriented grooves on one surface, providing suitable space for survival, adhesion, and proliferation of rat mesenchymal stem cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Among three CDOM films, CDOM‐EDTA is the most efficient at enhancing bone regeneration in vivo, with an increase in neovascularization and new bone formation. Meanwhile, CDOM‐EDTA is degradable in two months and of extremely low toxicity. There is a great deal of promise in the future for this novel periosteum substitute to be used for bone defect healing in clinical settings.
Competing Heat Carriers Leading to Distinctive Cation Concentration Dependent Thermal Conductivity of Amorphous LixS (x = 0–2) Batteries
Authors: Gao Yufei , Fan Hongzhao , Zhou Yanguang , Hu Ming
Published: April 2023

Thermal transport in amorphous lithium‐sulfur (a‐LixS) is systematically investigated using molecular dynamics and the contributions from different types of heat carriers are quantitatively evaluated. In general, the thermal conductivity (TC) of a‐LixS changes largely by varying the concentration (x) of Li ions in a‐LixS. Interestingly, the TC of a‐LixS shows three distinct regimes of dependence on Li concentration. For low Li concentration (x = 0.4–1.2), the TC grows slowly, followed by a rapid increase in TC for medium Li concentration (x = 1.2–1.6), where the growth rate is three times that of the first regime, and finally, the TC is independent of Li concentration (x = 1.6–2.0). The TC enhancement in the first and second regimes is mainly attributed to propagating and non‐propagating vibrational modes in a‐LixS, respectively. In contrast, the stable thermal transport regime is governed by the competition between propagating and non‐propagating phonons. These investigations provide quantitative TC data of various polysulfides for shuttling analysis, and a fundamental understanding of the thermal transport mechanism of complex a‐LixS structures, which is beneficial for the rational design of thermal management of Li‐S batteries.
Ammonia Tolerance of Atomically Dispersed Single Metal Site Catalysts: Mechanistic Understanding and High‐Performance Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Wu Zirui , Wang Yongying , Cao Yiming , Wang Bing , Sun Zhongti , Yang Juan , Li Yi
Published: April 2023

The anion‐exchange membrane direct ammonia fuel cell, as a carbon‐free fuel cell type, has recently received increasing attention albeit suffering from high cost of using the platinum‐group metal oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts. To pave the development of this promising power source, the atomically dispersed transition metal‐nitrogen‐carbon (M‐N‐C) materials with low cost and high ORR performance have allured to investigate their ammonia tolerance during the ORR. Herein, it is initially deconvoluted how compositional and structural elements of FeN4 sites modulate catalyst's performance. Furthermore, ORR catalytic activities of the M‐N‐C (M = Fe, Co or Mn) and Pt/C catalysts are investigated in ammonia‐containing electrolytes, showing that M‐N‐C catalysts have better ammonia tolerance than Pt/C. Among others, the Fe‐N‐C exhibits the best ammonia tolerance with only 4 mV negative shifts of half‐wave potential, 2.7% decrease of current, and negligibly irreversible activity loss. The superior ammonia tolerance of MN4 sites to Pt (111) surface is further confirmed by density functional theory calculations. The adsorption capacity of MN4 for O2 is higher than NH3 and the bonding force between MN4 and O2 is stronger than NH3, whereas opposite adsorption capacity and bonding force trends are observed on Pt (111) surface.
A Bio‐Functional Wnt3a Gradient Microarray for Cell Niche Studies
Authors: Wang Xinna , Ou Wanjing , Feng Di , Gao Bo , Chan Barbara Pui
Published: April 2023

The Wingless/Integrated (Wnt) signaling is a central player in regulating multiple cellular events ranging from developmental process, adult homeostasis to tumorigenesis. In native microenvironments, Wnt signals often function through the concentration gradients between the secreting site and the targeting site. Hence, presenting Wnt molecules in a concentration gradient in vitro in a controllable manner recapitulates the native Wnt niche. Nevertheless, most in vitro Wnt niche models, where the ligands are homogeneously immobilized on material surface, fail in reconstituting the concentration gradient of Wnt as that in vivo. Herein, using a previously established Multiphoton Microfabrication and Micropatterning (MMM) technology, a concentration gradient of Wnt3a is immobilized on a protein substrate via neutravidin‐biotin interactions, in a quantitatively and spatially controllable manner. Such Wnt3a gradient is bioactive as it triggers a dose‐ and time‐dependent upregulation of β‐catenin and cell proliferation, in model mouse L cells. Most importantly, human hair dermal papilla cells (HHDPCs) cultured in a cell niche with Wnt3a gradient proliferate in a Wnt3a‐gradient‐dependent manner and exhibit a Wnt3a‐gradient‐dependent hair‐inductive phenotype including Wnt/β‐catenin signaling activation and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) expression. This work contributes to the future development of a hair follicle inductivity biochip for screening of drugs and therapeutics on hair regeneration.
Chemically Customizing Mechanical Properties and Optical Transparency in Underwater Superoleophobic Coating
Authors: Borbora Angana , Dhar Manideepa , Shome Arpita , Barman Nishanta , Roy Swaraj , Manna Uttam
Published: April 2023

The inherent ability of bio‐inspired underwater superoleophobicity to prevent oil/oily fouling underwater makes it appropriate for a wide range of applications related to environmental remediation, bio‐adhesion, microfluidics, chemical sensing, etc.; however, the co‐association of mechanical durability and optical transparency is essential for realistic performance. While the design of mechanically durable and absolutely optically transparent underwater superoleophobic coating remains challenging, here, a covalently cross‐linked and chemically reactive sol‐gel conversion process is introduced through 1,4‐conjugate addition reaction to achieve a substrate‐independent and tolerant coating for orthogonally modulating the underwater oil wettability, optical transparency, and even mechanical properties of highly deformable porous and fibrous substrates. The post‐modification of residual chemical reactivity in the prepared coating allows to embed underwater superoleophobicity, and the β‐amino‐ester‐cross‐links improve the mechanical property of selected deformable substrates. Moreover, it displayed unperturbed performance even after prolonged (30 days) exposures in practically relevant chemically harsh aquatic conditions—including extremes of pH, artificial seawater, surfactant contaminated water, etc. The approach is successfully applied to coat various substrates—including porous, fibrous, and planar objects, and it would be useful in protecting various relevant marine infrastructures from oil/oily fouling, and various other potential applications.
Ultraviolet Light‐Based Micropattern Printing on Titanium Surfaces to Promote Early Osseointegration
Authors: Lou Yiting , Sun Mouyuan , Zhang Jingyu , Wang Yu , Ma Haiying , Sun Zheyuan , Li Shengjie , Weng Xiaoyan , Ying Binbin , Liu Chao , Yu Mengfei , Wang Huiming
Published: April 2023

Patterned interfaces are widely used for surface modification of biomaterials because of a morphological unit similar to that of native tissue. However, engineering fast and cost‐effective high‐resolution micropatterns directly onto titanium surfaces remains a grand challenge. Herein, a simply designed ultraviolet (UV) light‐based micropattern printing to obtain geometrical patterns on implant interfaces is fabricated by utilizing customized photomasks and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanorods as a photo‐responsive platform. The technique manipulates the cytoskeleton of micropatterning cells on the surface of TiO2 nanorods. The linear pattern surface shows the elongated morphology and parallel linear arrangements of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), significantly enhancing their osteogenic differentiation. In addition to the upregulated expression of key osteo‐specific function genes in vitro, the accelerated osseointegration between the implant and the host bone is obtained in vivo. Further investigation indicates that the developed linear pattern surface has an outstanding effect on the cytoskeletal system, and finally activates Yes‐Associated Protein (YAP)‐mediated mechanotransduction pathways, initiating hMSCs osteogenic differentiation. This study not only offers a microfabrication method that can be extended to fabricate various shape‐ and size‐controlled micropatterns on titanium surfaces, but also provides insight into the surface structure design for enhanced bone regeneration.
Copper Increases the Sensitivity of Cholangiocarcinoma Cells to Tripterine by Inhibiting TMX2‐Mediated Unfolded Protein Reaction Activation
Authors: Liu Hongwen , Xu Lei , Zhang Yiyang , Xie Yiqiong , Wang Lishan , Zhou Yue , Wang Zhangding , Pan Yani , Li Wenying , Xu Lu , Xu Xinyun , Wang Ting , Meng Kui , He Jian , Qiu Yudong , Xu Guifang , Ge Weihong , Zhu Yun , Wang Lei
Published: April 2023

Chemotherapy‐induced adaptive resistance is a significant factor that contributes to low therapeutic efficacy in tumor cells. The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a key mechanism in the development of drug resistance and serves as a critical reactive system for endoplasmic reticulum stress. Cu(II) can reduce the abundance of 60S ribosomal subunits and inhibit rRNA processing, leading to a decrease in the translation efficiency of the GRP78/BiP mRNA, which serves as a primary sensor for UPR activation. In this study, CuET‐Lipid@Cela, composed of CuET and tripterine (Cela), demonstrates a significant synergistic antitumor effect on cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cells. RNA‐Seq is used to investigate the underlying mechanism, which suggests that the transmembrane protein 2 (TMX2) gene may be crucial in Cu(II) regulation of UPR by inhibiting the activation of GRP78/BiP and PERK/eIF2α. The synergistic antitumor efficacy of CuET‐Lipid@Cela via inhibition of TMX2 is also confirmed in a myrAKT/YapS127A plasmid‐induced primary CCA mouse model, providing new insights into the reversal of acquired chemotherapy‐induced resistance in CCA.
Cocrystal Growth in Organic Semiconductor Thin Films: Simulation of Pentacene, Perfluoropentacene, and Their 1:1 Blend Deposited On Graphite
Authors: Lorini Emilio , Soprani Lorenzo , Muccioli Luca
Published: April 2023

The understanding of crystal formation in thin films and the precise knowledge of the relation between structure and surface diffusion are two important requirements for the efficient (nano)fabrication of organic electronic devices. Here a computational approach for simulating vapor‐phase deposition is employed to obtain and investigate three types of crystalline thin films on graphite. All systems, namely pentacene, perfluoropentacene, and their 1:1 blend, which forms an alternate cocrystal, are constituted by recumbent molecules in accordance with experimental findings. The contributions of intermolecular interactions and of molecular rearrangements occurring during the deposition are analyzed to rationalize the final morphologies. Then, the generated structures are employed to evaluate the energy barriers that prevent molecular diffusion at terraces and step‐edges, and to study the reorganization of the films upon high‐temperature annealing. The broad agreement with experimental observations and the possibility of evaluating the potential energy surface at the molecular detail render the proposed approach a promising tool to make predictions for other systems.
Oral Fungal Alterations in Patients with COVID‐19 and Recovered Patients
Authors: Hu Xiaobo , Wang Haiyu , Yu Bo , Yu Jia , Lu Haifeng , Sun Junyi , Sun Ying , Zou Yawen , Luo Hong , Zeng Zhaohai , Liu Shanshuo , Jiang Yan , Wu Zhongwen , Ren Zhigang
Published: April 2023

The oral bacteriome, gut bacteriome, and gut mycobiome are associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). However, the oral fungal microbiota in COVID‐19 remains unclear. This article aims to characterize the oral mycobiome in COVID‐19 and recovered patients. Tongue coating specimens of 71 COVID‐19 patients, 36 suspected cases (SCs), 22 recovered COVID‐19 patients, 36 SCs who recovered, and 132 controls from Henan are collected and analyzed using internal transcribed spacer sequencing. The richness of oral fungi is increased in COVID‐19 versus controls, and beta diversity analysis reveals separate fungal communities for COVID‐19 and control. The ratio of Ascomycota and Basidiomycota is higher in COVID‐19, and the opportunistic pathogens, including the genera Candida, Saccharomyces, and Simplicillium, are increased in COVID‐19. The classifier based on two fungal biomarkers is constructed and can distinguish COVID‐19 patients from controls in the training, testing, and independent cohorts. Importantly, the classifier successfully diagnoses SCs with positive specific severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 immunoglobulin G antibodies as COVID‐19 patients. The correlation between distinct fungi and bacteria in COVID‐19 and control groups is depicted. These data suggest that the oral mycobiome may play a role in COVID‐19.
Dragonfly‐Inspired Wing Design Enabled by Machine Learning and Maxwell's Reciprocal Diagrams
Authors: Zheng Hao , Mofatteh Hossein , Hablicsek Marton , Akbarzadeh Abdolhamid , Akbarzadeh Masoud
Published: April 2023

This research is taking the first steps toward applying a 2D dragonfly wing skeleton in the design of an airplane wing using artificial intelligence. The work relates the 2D morphology of the structural network of dragonfly veins to a secondary graph that is topologically dual and geometrically perpendicular to the initial network. This secondary network is referred as the reciprocal diagram proposed by Maxwell that can represent the static equilibrium of forces in the initial graph. Surprisingly, the secondary graph shows a direct relationship between the thickness of the structural members of a dragonfly wing and their in‐plane static equilibrium of forces that gives the location of the primary and secondary veins in the network. The initial and the reciprocal graph of the wing are used to train an integrated and comprehensive machine‐learning model that can generate similar graphs with both primary and secondary veins for a given boundary geometry. The result shows that the proposed algorithm can generate similar vein networks for an arbitrary boundary geometry with no prior topological information or the primary veins' location. The structural performance of the dragonfly wing in nature also motivated the authors to test this research's real‐world application for designing the cellular structures for the core of airplane wings as cantilever porous beams. The boundary geometry of various airplane wings is used as an input for the design proccedure. The internal structure is generated using the training model of the dragonfly veins and their reciprocal graphs. One application of this method is experimentally and numerically examined for designing the cellular core, 3D printed by fused deposition modeling, of the airfoil wing; the results suggest up to 25% improvements in the out‐of‐plane stiffness. The findings demonstrate that the proposed machine‐learning‐assisted approach can facilitate the generation of multiscale architectural patterns inspired by nature to form lightweight load‐bearable elements with superior structural properties.
Sodium Niobate with a Large Interlayer Spacing: A Fast‐Charging, Long‐Life, and Low‐Temperature Friendly Lithium‐Storage Material
Authors: Gao Jiazhe , Yang Liting , Huang Cihui , Liang Guisheng , Lei Yi , Li Songjie , Wang Wenze , Ou Yinjun , Gao Shangfu , Liu Xuehua , Cheng Yifeng , Zhang Jincang , Liu Zhongzhu , Guo Aiming , Monteiro Robson , Parreira Luanna , Ribas Rogerio , Lin Chunfu , Wu Limin , Che Renchao
Published: April 2023

Niobate Li+‐storage anode materials with shear ReO3 crystal structures have attracted intensive attention due to their inherent safety and large capacities. However, they generally suffer from limited rate performance, cyclic stability, and temperature adaptability, which are rooted in their insufficient interlayer spacings. Here, sodium niobate (NaNb13O33) micron‐sized particles are developed as a new anode material owning the largest interlayer spacing among the known shear ReO3‐type niobates. The large interlayer spacing of NaNb13O33 enables very fast Li+ diffusivity, remarkably contributing to its superior rate performance with a 2500 to 125 mA g−1 capacity percentage of 63.2%. Moreover, its large interlayer spacing increases the volume‐accommodation capability during lithiation, allowing small unit‐cell‐volume variations (maximum 6.02%), which leads to its outstanding cyclic stability with 87.9% capacity retention after as long as 5000 cycles at 2500 mA g−1. Its cyclic stability is the best in the research field of niobate micron‐sized particles, and comparable to that of “zero‐strain” Li4Ti5O12. At a low temperature of −10 °C, it also exhibits high rate performance with a 1250 to 125 mA g−1 capacity percentage of 65.6%, and even better cyclic stability with 105.4% capacity retention after 5000 cycles at 1250 mA g−1. These comprehensively good electrochemical results pave the way for the practical application of NaNb13O33 in high‐performance Li+ storage.
Photoinduced Radical Persistent Luminescence in Semialiphatic Polyimide System with Temperature and Humidity Resistance
Authors: Tu Fanlin , Ye Zecong , Mu Yingxiao , Luo Xuwei , Liao Liyun , Hu Dehua , Ji Shaomin , Yang Zhiyong , Chi Zhenguo , Huo Yanping
Published: April 2023

Organic persistent luminescence (pL) systems with photoresponsive dynamic features have valuable applications in the fields of data encryption, anticounterfeiting, and bioimaging. Photoinduced radical luminescent materials have a unique luminous mechanism with the potential to achieve dynamic pL. It is extremely challenging to obtain radical pL under ambient conditions; on account of it, it is unstable in air. Herein, a new semialiphatic polyimide‐based polymer (A0) is developed, which can achieve dynamic pL through reversible conversion of radical under photoexcitation. A “joint–donor–spacer–acceptor” molecular design strategy is applied to effectively modulate the intramolecular charge‐transfer and charge‐transfer complex interactions, resulting in effective protection of the radical generated under photoirradiation. Meanwhile, polyimide‐based polymers of A1–A4 are obtained by doping different amine‐containing fluorescent dyes to modulate the dynamic afterglow color from green to red via the triplet to singlet Förster resonance energy‐transfer pathway. Notably, benefiting from the structural characteristics of the polyimide‐based polymer, A0–A4 have excellent processability, thermal stability, and mechanical properties and can be applied directly in extreme environments such as high temperatures and humidity.
Effects of Connecting Polymer Structure and Morphology at Inter‐Tube Junctions on the Thermoelectric Properties of Conjugated Polymer/Carbon Nanotube Composites
Authors: Kim Seong Hyeon , Jeong Seungwon , Kim Daegun , Son Chang Yun , Cho Kilwon
Published: April 2023

Conjugated polymer (CP)/carbon nanotube (CNT) composites have been actively used for thermoelectrics for more than a decade. Thermoelectric performance of CP/CNT composites is greatly improved compared with that of the individual components; however, the underlying origin of the performance improvement remains vague, without clear explanations at the molecular scale. Moreover, the nature of the heterogeneous system limits quantitative analysis and restricts physical understanding of the thermoelectric effect in the composites. By combining experimental approaches with molecular dynamics simulations, the contribution of the CPs to the thermoelectric properties at inter‐tube junctions between adjacent CNTs is revealed. Indacenodithiophene‐co‐benzothiadiazole (IDTBT), which has a highly planar backbone and does not aggregate at CP/CNT interfaces, can better mediate effective intramolecular charge transport along backbone chains at inter‐tube junctions than poly[2,5‐bis(3‐tetradecylthiophene‐2‐yl)thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene] (PBTTT). The isotropic and continuous distribution of IDTBT backbone chains enables both holes and phonons to be transported effectively at inter‐tube junctions; this effect greatly increases electrical conductivity, but also increases thermal conductivity. Thus, to obtain a high thermoelectric figure of merit, the balance between the two effects must be optimized. These results may enable CP/CNT composites, whose development is currently stagnating, to be developed into commercially available thermoelectrics, complementing their conventional inorganic counterparts.
Leveraging Symmetry for an Accurate Spin–Orbit Torques Characterization in Ferrimagnetic Insulators
Authors: Testa‐Anta Martín , Lambert Charles‐Henri , Avci Can Onur
Published: April 2023

Spin–orbit torques (SOTs) have emerged as an efficient means to electrically control the magnetization in ferromagnetic heterostructures. Lately, increasing attention has been devoted to SOTs in heavy metal (HM)/magnetic insulator (MI) bilayers owing to their tunable magnetic properties and insulating nature. Quantitative characterization of SOTs in HM/MI heterostructures is, thus, vital for the fundamental understanding of charge–spin interrelations and designing novel devices. However, the accurate determination of SOTs in MIs is limited due to low electrical signals and dominant spurious thermoelectric effects caused by Joule heating. Here, a simple method based on harmonic Hall voltage detection and macrospin simulations is reported that accurately quantifies the damping‐like and field‐like SOTs, and thermoelectric contributions separately in MI‐based systems. Experiments on the archetypical Bi‐doped YIG/Pt heterostructure using the developed method yield precise values for the field‐like and damping‐like SOTs, reaching −0.14 and −0.15 mT per 1.7 × 1011 A m−2, respectively. It is further revealed that current‐induced Joule heating changes the spin transparency at the interface, reducing the spin Hall magnetoresistance and damping‐like SOT, simultaneously. These results and the devised methodology can be beneficial for the fundamental understanding of SOTs in MI‐based heterostructures and device designs where accurate SOTs knowledge is necessary.
Type‐II Dirac Nodal Lines in a Double‐Kagome‐Layered Semimetal
Authors: Cai Yongqing , Wang Jianfeng , Wang Yuan , Hao Zhanyang , Liu Yixuan , Zhou Liang , Sui Xuelei , Jiang Zhicheng , Xu Shengjie , Ge Han , Ma Xiao‐Ming , Zhang Chengcheng , Shen Zecheng , Yang Yichen , Jiang Qi , Liu Zhengtai , Ye Mao , Shen Dawei , Liu Yi , Cui Shengtao , Wang Le , Liu Cai , Lin Junhao , Huang Bing , Wu Liusuo , Zhuang Jincheng , He Hongtao , Zhang Wenqing , Mei Jia‐Wei , Chen Chaoyu
Published: April 2023

Lorentz‐violating type‐II Dirac nodal line semimetals (DNLSs), hosting curves of band degeneracy formed by two dispersion branches with the same sign of slope, represent a novel state of matter. While being studied extensively in theory, convincing experimental evidence of type‐II DNLSs remain elusive. Recently, vanadium‐based kagome materials have emerged as a fertile ground to study the interplay between lattice symmetry and band topology. This work studies the low‐energy band structure of double‐kagome‐layered CsV8Sb12 and identifies it as a scarce type‐II DNLS protected by mirror symmetry. This work observes multiple DNLs consisting of type‐II Dirac cones close to or almost at the Fermi level via angle‐resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), which provides an electronic explanation for the nonsaturating magnetoresistance effect as observed. First‐principles theory analyses show that spin‐orbit coupling only opens a small gap, resulting in effectively gapless ARPES spectra, yet generating large spin Berry curvature. These type‐II DNLs, together with the interaction between a low‐energy van Hove singularity and quasi‐one‐dimensional band as observed in the same material, suggest CsV8Sb12 as an ideal platform for exploring novel transport properties.
High Performance and Durable Anode with 10‐Fold Reduction of Iridium Loading for Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis
Authors: Torrero Jorge , Morawietz Tobias , García Sanchez Daniel , Galyamin Dmitry , Retuerto Maria , Martin‐Diaconescu Vlad , Rojas Sergio , Alonso José Antonio , Gago Aldo Saul , Friedrich Kaspar Andreas
Published: April 2023

Proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) technology is especially advantageous for green H2 production as a clean energy vector. During the water electrolysis process, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) requires a large amount of iridium (2‐3 mgIr cm−2) as catalyst. This material is scarce and expensive, representing a major bottleneck for large‐scale deployment of electrolyzers. This work develops an anode with 10‐fold reduction of Ir loading (0.2 mgIr cm−2) compared to what it is used in commercial PEMWE for more than 1000 h. An advanced catalyst based on an Ir mixed oxide (Sr2CaIrO6) is used for this purpose. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) analyses show that the unconventional structure of the reconstructed catalyst can contribute to the reduction of Ir in the catalyst layer. The reconfiguration of the ionomer in the catalyst layer is also observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), results in almost the full coverage of the catalytic layer with ionomer. The results presented herein demonstrate that it is possible to achieve high performance and stability in PEMWE with low Ir loading in the anode without showing significant degradation.
Digital‐Twin‐Driven Diagnostics of Crack Propagation in a Single LiNi0.7Mn0.15Co0.15O2 Secondary Particle during Lithium Intercalation
Authors: Song Jihun , Lim Seong‐Hyeon , Kim Kyung‐Geun , Umirov Nurzhan , Lee Hyobin , Dzakpasu Cyril Bubu , Lim Jaejin , Nam Jieun , Park Joonam , Lee Je‐Nam , Munakata Hirokazu , Kanamura Kiyoshi , Kim Sung‐Soo , Lee Yong Min
Published: April 2023

Crack propagation has been extensively spotlighted as a main reason for the degradation of secondary‐particle‐type active materials, including LiNixMnyCo1−x−yO2 (NMC). Numerous experimental analyses and 3D‐modeling‐based investigations have been conducted to unravel this complicated phenomenon, especially for nickel‐rich NMCs, which experience substantial crack propagation during high‐voltage, high‐temperature, or high‐depth‐of‐discharge operations. To fundamentally clarify this unavoidable degradation factor and permit its suppression, a digital‐twin‐guided electro–chemo–mechanical (ECM) model of a single few‐micrometer‐sized LiNi0.7Mn0.15Co0.15O2 (NMC711) particle is developed in this study using a 3D reconstruction technique. Because the digital twin technique replicates a real pore‐containing NMC711 secondary particle, this digital‐twin electrochemical model simulates voltage profiles even at 8C‐rate within an error of 0.48% by fitting two key parameters: diffusion coefficient and exchange current density. The digital‐twin‐based ECM model is developed based on the verified electrochemical parameters and mechanical properties such as lithium‐induced strain from axis lattice parameters and stress–strain curve measured by nanoindentation. Using this model, the electrochemical‐reaction‐induced mechanical properties including strain, stress, and strain energy density are also visualized in operando in a single NMC711 particle. Finally, the advanced operando ECM analysis allows for the diagnosis of crack formation, highlighting the effectiveness of this platform in elucidating crack formation in active materials.
Unveiling the Growth Mechanism of the Interphase between Lithium Metal and Li2S‐P2S5‐B2S3 Solid‐State Electrolytes
Authors: Gao Chengwei , Zhang Jiahui , He Chengmiao , Fu Yanqing , Zhou Tianyue , Li Xu , Kang Shiliang , Tan Linling , Jiao Qing , Dai Shixun , Yue Yuanzheng , Lin Changgui
Published: April 2023

Chalcogenides with high ionic conductivity and appropriate mechanical properties are promising solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) to substitute current liquid electrolytes in lithium‐ion batteries. Yet, their practical applications in all‐solid‐state batteries are still retarded by both the low critical current density and the inferior interfacial stability toward electrodes. In this work, a series of superior SSEs, that is, Li2S‐P2S5‐B2S3 electrolytes, are developed via a ball‐milling and then melt‐quenching strategy. These SSEs exhibit a high critical current density of 1.65 mA cm−2 and a long cycling life of over 300 h. In addition, the evolution mechanism of the interphase between SSEs and metallic lithium is revealed via operando electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, depth‐profiling XPS, and in situ Raman spectroscopy. The structural and chemical heterogeneities are found to be the main origins of the continual interphase evolution. The resulting “multi‐layer mosaic like” interphase facilitates the suppression of Li dendrite growth, and hence, prolongs the lifetime of lithium‐ion all‐solid‐state batteries. In addition, the preparation technique of SSEs developed in the present work is feasible for scale‐up production.
Rational Design of a Stable Fe‐rich Ni‐Fe Layered Double Hydroxide for the Industrially Relevant Dynamic Operation of Alkaline Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Mehdi Muhammad , An Byeong‐Seon , Kim Haesol , Lee Sechan , Lee Changsoo , Seo Myeongmin , Noh Min Wook , Cho Won‐Chul , Kim Chang‐Hee , Choi Chang Hyuck , Kim Byung‐Hyun , Kim MinJoong , Cho Hyun‐Seok
Published: April 2023

Nickel‐iron layered double hydroxides (Ni‐Fe LDHs) consist of stacked Fe3+‐doped positively charged Ni‐hydroxide layers containing charge‐balancing anions and water molecules between the layers. Although Ni‐Fe LDHs are highly active in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) under alkaline conditions, their poor operational stability remains an issue. Herein, based on density functional theory calculations, it is proposed that the inclusion of a higher Fe content (>40%) than the theoretical Fe3+ limit (≈25%) permitted by Ni‐Fe LDHs can lead to improved structural stability. An Fe‐rich Ni‐Fe LDH electrode is therefore prepared via a growth strategy based on the controlled oxygen corrosion of an Fe substrate, by enabling the incorporation of additional Fe2+ into the Ni2+‐Fe3+ LDH structure. Indeed, microstructural and elemental analysis confirm the presence of additional Fe2+. This Fe‐rich Ni‐Fe LDH electrode not only offers a low OER overpotential (≈270 mV at 200 mA cm−2) but also exhibits an excellent operational stability under dynamic operating environments without any significant performance degradation or metal ion dissolution. Finally, the practical feasibility of the Fe‐rich Ni‐Fe LDH electrode is demonstrated in a single‐cell (34.56 cm2) operation. These findings are expected to aid in the development of reliable OER electrodes for use in commercial water electrolyzers.
Spatial distribution of maize grain quality and its influence by climatic factors across China
Authors: Liu Wanmao , Jia Biao , Baloch Nazia , Sun Ying , Liu Guangzhou , Yang Yunshan , Guo Xiaoxia , Ming Bo , Xie Ruizhi , Wang Keru , Li Shaokun , Hou Peng
Published: April 2023

Maize (Zea mays L.) grain quality is an important economic trait directly determining the market price and application value of maize. In this study, maize grain starch, protein, oil, fiber concentrations, and bulk density were investigated based on a multi‐site experiment across China to determine the regional distribution trend of grain quality and its influencing factors. It showed that the mean starch, protein, oil, fiber concentrations, and bulk density in China were 73.4%, 9.5%, 4.2%, 3.6%, and 77.2 kg hL−1, respectively. Overall, each nutritional composition concentration did not show the same spatial distribution as grain yield that was in the order of Northwest (NW) > North (NM) > Huanghuaihai (HM) > Southwest (SW) maize region. The starch and protein concentrations were highest in SW and HM, respectively. The oil concentration was lowest in NW. The interregional difference in bulk density was not significant. As for cultivars, the starch and oil concentrations of ZD958 were higher than that of XY335 in each region, but the protein, fiber concentrations, and bulk density appeared to be the opposite trend. Correlation analysis indicated that the fiber concentration and bulk density were positively correlated with grain yield. The protein, oil, and fiber concentrations were negatively correlated with starch concentration. Among the considered climatic factors, the protein, fiber concentrations, and bulk density were mainly positively affected by temperature factors in China. The results provide a reference for the division of maize advantageous quality regions and the construction of high‐yield and quality technology model in typical ecological regions.
Impact of crop establishment techniques and weed management practices on Oryza sativa L. growth and yield
Authors: Nazir Aijaz , Bhat Mohammad Anwar , Bhat Tauseef Ahmad , Bhat Suhail Fayaz , Qayoom Sameera , Hussain Ashaq , Lone Bilal Ahmad , Jan Bisma , Dar Showket A. , John James
Published: April 2023

Due to increased demand, labor costs, and water scarcity, farmers look for an alternative way of rice cultivation under prevailing conventional transplanting. Direct‐seeded Oryza sativa and system of rice intensification (SRI) have been developed as superior substitutes to transplanting. However, if weeds are not controlled properly, the direct seeding method faces serious weed infestation and yield losses. In this context, a field study was undertaken during kharif growing seasons to evaluate the growth and yield of O. sativa under various crop establishment methods and weed management practices. The results revealed that system of rice intensification (SRI) method of crop establishment significantly produced taller plants, higher dry matter accumulation, a greater number of tillers per meter square, highest leaf area index, yield attributes, namely, panicle density, panicle length, and grains per panicle, and higher grain and straw yield over direct seeded rice (DSR) and transplanted O. sativa. Among the various weed management practices, penoxsulam produced significantly higher grain and straw yield. The results demonstrated that average grain yield increase with SRI was reported to be 24.11% and 23.62% over DSR and 10.47% and 12.23% over transplanted O. sativa. Among various establishment techniques, lower weed density and dry weed biomass were achieved by transplanting O. sativa. Penoxsulam herbicides significantly reduced the weed density and dry weed biomass but penoxsulam herbicide demonstrated significantly the maximum reduction in number of weeds per meter square and dry weed biomass and proved superior against complex weed flora.
Using Judicial Dispute Resolution Will Improve the Administration of Justice
Authors: Susskind Lawrence , Tilleman William , Parra-Herrera Nicolas
Published: April 2023

There is a growing concern worldwide about ensuring fairness and justice in society, especially on behalf of those at the margins who have the least resources.
Fabrication and characterization of Hypecoum pendulum‐assisted novel bio‐inspired silver nanoparticles and their antioxidant, anti‐diabetic, and anti‐Alzheimer properties
Authors: Huda Noor Ul , Ahmed Mushtaq , Mushtaq Nadia , Khan Rahmat Ali
Published: April 2023

This research aims to study the biogenic synthesis and characterization of Hypecoum pendulum extract‐induced silver nanoparticles (HP‐AgNPs) and to investigate its antioxidant, anti‐alpha‐amylase, and anti‐acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities. UV spectrometry at 417 nm with an surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak of 1.54 confirmed the biosynthesis of HP‐AgNPs. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis demonstrated that HP‐AgNPs are crystalline with a 36 nm size. The average size of 80 nm was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The functional moieties bearing compounds accountable for the encapsulation and stability of HP‐AgNPs were assessed by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) technique. Energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) demonstrated that silver was the main element (49%) of HP‐AgNPs. HP‐AgNPs showed the promising antioxidant potential of ABTS (71.57%), diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH, 69.46%), H2O2 (66.94%), ferric chloride (73.71%), and ammonium molybdenum (65.7%). HP‐AgNPs exhibited significant enzymatic inhibition potential with IC50 of 48.8 ± 4.03 μg/mL (α‐amylase) and 51.78 ± 3.16 μg/mL (AChE). Kinetics studies showed that HP‐AgNPs produced mixed‐type inhibition against α‐amylase (Km increased from 40.65 to 131.44%, whereas Vmax decreased from 4.14 to 9.77%) and non‐competitive‐type inhibition (Vmax decreased from 17.05 to 62.03% and Km remain constant) against AChE. Finally, it may be concluded that HP‐AgNPs may possess anti‐Alzheimer, anti‐diabetic, and antioxidant capabilities.
Cobalt ferrite magnetic nanoceramics as an efficient nanocatalyst for the oxidation of olefins in the presence of molecular O2 as an environmentally safe oxidant
Authors: Pashaei Babak , Aghaei Afsoon , Shaterian Maryam
Published: April 2023

Selective oxidation of olefins using catalysts with unique structural and compositional characteristics, high cost‐efficiency, and optimal catalytic performance is still one of the ongoing tasks. In the present study, we synthesized cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) magnetic nanoceramics by the sol–gel process as a feasible and effective technique for synthesizing high purity, homogeneous, and crystalline nanoceramics. The nanoceramics were characterized by different analyses such as FT‐IR, XRD, DLS, SEM, XPS, and VSM to investigate their size, morphology, crystallinity, and magnetic properties. Then, the obtained nanoceramics were applied as an environmentally clean catalyst for the oxidation of various olefins to the corresponding epoxides in the presence of molecular O2 and at ambient conditions. The results showed that the CoFe2O4 nanoceramic could act as an efficient catalyst for converting olefins to the corresponding products with excellent yields. To further study the catalytic activity, the effects of some parameters, including catalyst concentration, temperature, time, and solvent, on the oxidation reactions were also studied. In addition, the heterogeneous CoFe2O4 catalyst has advantages such as high selectivity, facile recovery, and reusability of catalyst without a significant decrease in catalytic activity. Finally, our results showed that the catalytic performance of these nanoceramics is among the best reported catalysts for olefin oxidation.
Preparation of calcium sulfide by sludge‐assisted rice husk reduction of phosphogypsum
Authors: Ma Dong , Wang Qinhui , Tian Zhihua
Published: April 2023

Reduction of phosphogypsum (PG) to calcium sulfide (CaS) using thermochemical methods solve the environmental problems caused by PG. However, the commonly used reducing agents are coal and CO. The use of the above‐mentioned reducing agents is not economically efficient. In this paper, rice husk (RH) is used as a reducing agent and sludge (SL) as an additive to reduce PG. The effect of the two on PG decomposition and the mechanism of the synergistic effect are also investigated in combination with kinetic calculations. It is found that decomposition rate of CaSO4 in PG is 99.99% and yield of CaS is 98.38% when 40% RH + 20% SL is used as the reducing agent at 900°C for 30 min. The combined use of RH + SL is superior to RH alone in reducing the initial decomposition temperature and Ea. The mechanism functions of both reduced PG are G(α) = −ln(1 − α). There is a synergistic mechanism between RH and SL. The Fe2O3 in SL increases the cleavage of nitrogen oxide‐containing compounds and PAHs in tar to monocyclic aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons while producing more CO, H2, and CH4. Meanwhile, SL ash can promote the reaction process of carbon with CaSO4, thus increasing the decomposition rate of PG.
Synthesis ofSMA‐PEGhyperdispersant and its stabilization mechanism for carbon black
Authors: Kang Yafang , Zhu Aiping
Published: April 2023

In this paper, four comb hyperdispersants (SMA‐MPEGA) with different side chain lengths and side chain densities were prepared by the amide coupling reaction of styrene‐maleic anhydride (SMA) copolymer and methoxypolyethylene glycol amine (MPEGA). The dispersion behavior of SMA‐MPEGA on carbon black was investigated by rheology and water contact angle measurement. The combined technologies of transmission electron microscopy, digital light synthesis, zeta potential, surface tension and UV–Vis have been successfully used to reveal the stability mechanism of SMA‐MPEGA. The SMA3000‐MPEGA1000 with a molar ratio of styrene to maleic anhydride of 3:1 and the molecular weight of side chain PEG of 1000 has the optimum carbon black dispersion. The results of the effect of dispersant structure on its dispersion performance reveal that the stable adsorption of dispersant on the surface of carbon black is the key to obtaining a space or electrostatic repulsion stabilizing role.
Hot melt processing strategy to modify eucommia ulmoides gum by click reaction
Authors: Wu Yitong , Wei Jiajia , Huang Hailong , Cui Mengzhong
Published: April 2023

Under the condition of hot melt processing, the modification of eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) by mercapto compounds, n‐Octyl mercaptan (OM), and isooctyl mercaptoacetate (IOMA) was realized by the click reaction of thiol‐ene. The 1H‐NMR results confirmed that the grafting rate of mercapto compounds was 2.28%–5.30% and 1.68%–3.85% when OM and IOMA reacted with EUG in thiol‐ene click reaction under hot melt processing conditions. The DSC results showed that the crystallinity of EUG‐OM was higher than that of EUG when the amount of grafted compound OM ranged from 0.86 to 1.39 mol%. When IOMA‐modified EUG products change from partially crystalline to amorphous, the critical value of IOMA is 2.15 mol%. With the grafting rate of mercapto compounds increasing, T10, T50, and T90 of mercapto modified EUG has decreased to some extent, the ML, MH, and the difference of MH and ML also decrease at the same time. Compared with unmodified EUG vulcanizate, the hardness and tensile strength of a mercapto compound modified EUG vulcanizate decrease, while the elongation at break significantly increases. The stress‐strain curve of a mercapto compound modified EUG vulcanizate confirmed the transition from rigid crystalline materials to elastomers. This property change should be attributed to the plasticizing effect caused by the crystallization property of the modified EUG. The chemical modification of EUG under solvent‐free conditions is environmentally friendly, and the product is uniform, which may be of great significance for practical industrialization.