bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-vitro Cytotoxicity of Extracts of Selected Malaria Medicinal Plants Used by Traditional Healers of Kericho East Sub-county, Kenya
Authors: Bwogo Pacifica Chepchumba , Masai Rael J.
Published: November 2023

Background: Malaria is a fatal disease which affects people of all ages; especially pregnant women, young children <5 years, and the elderly because of their weakened immune systems. The currently used anti-malarial drugs have been linked to a variety of negative side effects including the parasite resistance. Additionally, the costs associated with the conventional malaria management approach are arguably high, particularly for people living in low-income countries, highlighting the need for alternative and complementary approaches. Medicinal plants therefore are a viable alternative since they are arguably less expensive and easily accessible. However, there is limited information on safety and efficacy of the plants. This study was designed to investigate the cytotoxic activities of polar and non-polar crude extracts solvents of selected plants used by traditional healers in Kericho East Sub-County to treat malaria.
Materials and Methods: Plants studied included Pittosporum viridiflorum (stem barks), Phytolacca dodecandra (Leaves), and Gardenia ternifolia (roots barks). Plant parts selected were collected from Kericho East Sub-county; Kapsoit, Kaitui, and Fort-Ternan. Their crude extracts were obtained from hexane, dichloromethane (DCM), Methanol (MeOH), and 5% H2O/MeOH. In vitro cytotoxic effects and safety of the studied plants' extracts were identified using mammalian Vero E6 cells. 
Results: Most of the plants tested yielded impressive cytotoxicity results, indicating that therapeutic doses could be achieved at safe concentrations. However, P. viridiflorum hexane, DCM, MeOH, and 5% H2O/MeOH crude extracts were toxic to the cultured cells expressing the mean CC50 ± SE of 65.11±0.40, 25.63±0.23, 87.94 ±0.59 and 98.54±0.66 μg/ml, respectively.
Conclusion: G. ternifolia and P. dodecandra have offered hope in the treatment of malaria since their crude extracts have demonstrated no toxicity. The study found P. viridiflorum crude extracts to be toxic but there is the possibility of isolating safe nontoxic compound/s because they were less toxic at lower doses. This study therefore identified potential plants that could be used to develop novel anti-plasmodial agents.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Topical Decongestants Xylometazoline and Oxymetazoline: A Literature Review
Authors: Grebeniuk Dmytro , Hrytsun Yaroslav , Nikulchenko Oleg
Published: November 2023

Introduction: This article provides a review and detailed analysis of scientific publications on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of xylometazoline and oxymetazoline. Xylometazoline and oxymetazoline are two commonly used nasal decongestants used to temporarily relieve nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, and sinusitis. Both drugs narrow blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing edema and rhinorrhea.

Aims: The aim of the study is to evaluate the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of xylometazoline and oxymetazoline based on a literature review.

Material and Methods: A retrospective review of literature data was performed using Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases. Different keyword combinations, such as "topical decongestants", "xylometazoline", "oxymetazoline", "pharmacokinetics" and "pharmacodynamics", were used to search for information on the problem addressed. When processing search results, either the most recent publications (over the last 10 years) or the latest publications for this topic (regardless of their release) were chosen.

Results: After reviewing abstracts and getting acquainted with their full-text articles, 47 scientific sources that met the eligibility criteria were selected. Although there are minor differences between pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of xylometazoline and oxymetazoline according to available literature sources, both drugs exhibit very low systemic exposure, thus reducing the number of side effects due to the lack of systemic action and producing a high local concentration of the drugs in areas of inflammation. Besides, because of its pharmacokinetic properties, xylometazoline has a faster onset of action and a shorter duration of therapeutic effect compared to oxymetazoline.
Assessment of Quality and Production Conditions of Local Beverages Produced in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Sawadogo Adama , Cissé Hama , Ouédraogo Ganamé Abasse , Sawadogo Kassoum , Tapsoba Samiratou , Zongo Cheikna , Savadogo Aly
Published: November 2023

Artisanal food production has been developing in recent years in African cities. However, the promoters of the artisanal food production structures do not always apply good hygiene practices (GHP) during their activities, which can lead to the production of food of unsatisfactory quality. Thus, this study was initiated to assess the quality and production conditions of local beverages produced in Ouagadougou. Twelve samples of four beverages (tamarind and pineapple juice, bissap, and toedo) were collected during different productions and then sent to the laboratory. Microbiological and physico-chemical analyzes were done using standard microbiological methods and Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) methods respectively. The evaluation of the application of GHP was carried out using a checklist. The results obtained show that for all the beverage samples, the pH varies from 2.44±0.02 to 3.55±0.00, The titratable acidity from 0.29±0.02% to 0.75±0.02% and the brix degree from 11.00±0.00% to 16.50±0.11%. Total mesophilic aerobic flora (TMAF) and yeast and mold loads were respectively from 1.00x103 colony forming unit per milliliter (CFU/mL) to 7.30x104 CFU/mL and from <10 CFU/mL to 9.00x102 CFU/mL. All samples had a coliform load less than 10 CFU/mL. Salmonella and Shigella were absent in all samples. This study shows that most of the beverage samples studied have a compliant pH and Brix level. Referring to all the germs studied, 8.33% of local beverage samples are of satisfactory quality, 41.66% of acceptable quality and 50.00% of unsatisfactory quality. GHP assessment showed compliance rates of 100% (raw material), 66.66% (labour), 66.66% (methods), 55.55% (environment) and 25% (equipment). The results of this study indicate the need for the establishment of a quality assurance system followed within local beverage production structures.
Brexpiprazole for the Treatment of Agitation in Alzheimer Dementia
Authors: Lee Daniel , Slomkowski Mary , Hefting Nanco , Chen Dalei , Larsen Klaus Groes , Kohegyi Eva , Hobart Mary , Cummings Jeffrey L. , Grossberg George T.
Published: November 2023

Importance

Agitation is a prevalent, distressing, and burdensome manifestation of Alzheimer dementia in need of an efficacious, safe, and well-tolerated treatment.

Objective

To confirm the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of brexpiprazole in patients with agitation in Alzheimer dementia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial was a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose, parallel-arm trial that ran from May 2018 to June 2022 at 123 clinical trial sites in Europe and the United States. Participants included patients with agitation in Alzheimer dementia in a care facility or community-based setting. Stable Alzheimer disease medications were permitted.

Interventions

In this 2-arm trial, patients were randomized to receive oral brexpiprazole or placebo (2:1 ratio) for 12 weeks. Within the brexpiprazole arm, patients were further randomized to receive fixed doses of 2 mg/d or 3 mg/d in a 1:2 ratio.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was change in Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory total score (which measures the frequency of 29 agitated behaviors) from baseline to week 12 for brexpiprazole, 2 or 3 mg, vs placebo. Safety was assessed by standard measures, including treatment-emergent adverse events.

Results

A total of 345 patients were randomized to receive brexpiprazole (n = 228) or placebo (n = 117); completion rates were 198 (86.8%) for brexpiprazole and 104 (88.9%) for placebo. Mean (SD) age was 74.0 (7.5) years, and 195 of 345 patients were female (56.5%). Patients receiving brexpiprazole, 2 or 3 mg (n = 225), demonstrated statistically significantly greater improvement than those taking placebo (n = 116) in Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory total score from baseline to week 12 (brexpiprazole baseline, 80.6, mean change, −22.6; placebo baseline, 79.2, mean change, −17.3; least-squares mean difference, −5.32; 95% CI, −8.77 to −1.87; P = .003; Cohen d effect size, 0.35). No treatment-emergent adverse events had an incidence of 5% or more with brexpiprazole and greater incidence than placebo. The proportion of patients who discontinued because of adverse events was 12 of 226 (5.3%) for brexpiprazole and 5 of 116 (4.3%) for placebo.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, patients with Alzheimer dementia who took brexpiprazole, 2 or 3 mg, showed a statistically significant improvement vs placebo in agitation over 12 weeks. Brexpiprazole was generally well tolerated over 12 weeks in this vulnerable patient population.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03548584
Euopisthobranchs: Body Cavities
Authors: Bartolomaeus Thomas , Malaquias Manuel A. E. , Lobo‐da‐Cunha Alexandre
Published: November 2023

Like in other mollusks, Euopisthobranchia possesses two different mesodermal body cavities that are discriminated by their lining. The pericardium is a secondary or coelomic body cavity, lined by an endothelium consisting of epithelio‐muscle cells, podocytes, and lining cells. The pericardium surrounds the heart that consists of a single auricle and the ventricle. Both are lined by an extracellular matrix only. The epicardium and myocardium are exclusively formed by the endothelium of the pericardium. A renopericaridal duct drains the pericardium and connects it to the kidney. The term renopericardial system expresses this structural relation. Since heart, aorta, arteries, veins, blood sinuses, and the large periintestinal hemocoel are lined by an extracellular matrix only, they form the primary body cavity of Euopisthobranchia. Since hemolymph flows inside this cavity and course and position only of parts of the primary body cavity are fixed, this cavity represents the semi‐open circulatory system of euopisthobranchs. The gonad may represent another secondary body cavity in Euopisthobranchia.
Euopisthobranchs: Excretory System
Authors: Bartolomaeus Thomas , Malaquias Manuel A. E. , Lobo‐da‐Cunha Alexandre
Published: November 2023

As in other gastropods, in euopisthobranchs the pericardial cavity that surrounds the heart is spatially and functionally connected to the excretory system, forming the renopericardial system. Podocytes or podocyte‐like cells of the auricular epicardium and pericardium wall mediate selective fluid transfer from the circulatory system into the pericardium. Therefore, the fluid inside the pericardium is primary urine. Functionally and structurally, the renopericardial consists of three sections, i.e. (i) podocytes of the atrial and pericardial wall serve in ultrafiltration, (ii) a ciliated renopericardial duct transports the ultrafiltrate into the kidney, and (iii) and unciliated kidney that modifies the ultrafiltrate. The kidney cells are highly vesiculated, unciliated cells with basal infolds indicative for transcytosis across the epithelium. In small euopisthobranch species, the kidney is basically a simple duct, in larger species, like in those of the genus
Aplysia
, the kidney consists of large, branched, anatomizing, and intertwined ducts. The modified primary urine is released to the exterior via a short ciliated duct that terminates in the nephropore.
Euopisthobranchs: Respiratory System
Authors: Lobo‐da‐Cunha Alexandre , Bartolomaeus Thomas , Malaquias Manuel A. E.
Published: November 2023

In euopisthobranchs, the gill is external on the right side of the animal or is located within the mantle cavity. The term plicatidium designates the gills of euopisthobranchs which have a highly folded structure, being distinct from the lamellar ctenidial gills of other mollusks. In
Aplysia
, the gill is formed by wedge‐shaped pinnules in which the respiratory tissue is highly folded. On both sides of these folds, the epithelium comprises ciliated, unciliated, and secretory cells. Beneath each epithelium, a layer of connective tissue with muscle cells lines the central blood space. In
Aplysia depilans
, the ultrastructure of gill epithelial cells indicates an absorptive function, endocytosis, and intracellular digestion in lysosomes, as well as active transport of ions in addition to the respiratory function. Mucous cells are the most abundant secretory cells in the gill of
A. depilans
, but serous epithelial and subepithelial cells are also present. The gill is reduced or entirely missing in several small‐size species.
Extended dissipative performance for a complex dynamical networks based on adaptive event‐triggered filter method subject to hybrid attacks
Authors: Tajudeen M. Mubeen , Ali M. Syed , Rajchakit Grienggrai , Jirawattanapanit Anuwat , Priya Bandana
Published: November 2023

The challenge of adaptive event‐triggered based filter design for complex dynamical networks with time‐varying coupling delays under hybrid attack is studied in this research. A new model of complex dynamical networks with input constraints, involving denial‐of‐service (DoS) attack, replay attack, and deception attack is designed. An adaptive event‐triggered scheme is applied to filter design, which adaptively modifies the communication threshold level in order to reduce the effect of the transmission load. By using Lyapunov theory and inequality techniques, a novel necessary condition is proposed that guarantees mean‐square asymptotically stability with extended dissipative performance. The proposed filter parameters are then given an explicit expression, which is solved using a set of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, two numerical results are presented to demonstrate the validity of the theoretical result suggested.
Thermally Resistant, Mechanically Robust, Enamel‐Inspired Hydroxyapatite/Polyethylene Nanocomposite Battery Separator
Authors: Yue Honglei , Yao Yifan , Li Yanmei , Ding Longjiang , Guo Jianchao , Tang Xuke , Li Feng , Sun Yunhou , Huang Jinliang , Zhong Haiqing , Yan Qiang , Qi Juanjuan , Zhang Ao , Mei Yong , Zhang Yongbo , Wang Hua , Chen Ke
Published: November 2023

Microporous polyethylene (PE) membrane is a representative lithium‐ion battery (LIB) separators but regularly shrinks especially in high‐temperature conditions, and is facilely pierced while growing Li dendrites, leading to severe consequences such as short circuits, thermal runaway, and even explosion. Herein, this article reports a quasi‐continuous strategy that utilizes in situ enamel mineralization engineering followed by thermal treatment to easily develop a large‐area, 3D interlaced hydroxyapatite nanosheets array‐reinforced PE nanocomposite separator with robust mechanical properties and excellent resistance to thermal shrinkage. Specifically, the 120 °C‐heated nanocomposite possesses excellent breaking stress, an ultrahigh toughness of ≈434.4 MJ m−3, and an enhanced friction coefficient of ≈0.69, which are distinctly higher than those of commercial PE separators, respectively, and far exceeding those of reported ceramic modified‐PE separators. The elongation of the resultant nanocomposite can achieve an extraordinary ≈2456.4% without any fracture under a 180 °C‐heating temperature. In situ observation and finite element simulation indicate that the impressive mechanical and thermostable integration profits from the co‐effect of efficient energy dissipation at organic–inorganic interfaces and mechanically interlocked, mutually‐supported hybrid microstructure. The enamel‐inspired separator can be potentially applied in safer high‐temperature LIBs and this strategy provides a valuable guide to develop other high‐performance polymer‐based nanocomposites.
Voltage Hysteresis of Silicon Nanoparticles: Chemo‐Mechanical Particle‐SEI Model
Authors: Köbbing Lukas , Latz Arnulf , Horstmann Birger
Published: November 2023

Silicon is a promising anode material for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries. However, the volume change and the voltage hysteresis during lithiation and delithiation are two substantial drawbacks to their lifetime and performance. The reason for the voltage hysteresis in amorphous silicon nanoparticles covered by a solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) is investigated. Concentration gradients inside the nanoscale silicon cannot produce the massive stresses necessary to cause the reported voltage hysteresis. The chemo‐mechanical model shows that plastic deformation of the stiff, inorganic SEI during lithiation and delithiation reproduces the observed silicon open‐circuit voltage hysteresis. Additionally, the viscous behavior of the SEI explains the difference between the voltage hysteresis observed at low currents and after relaxation. It is concluded that the visco‐elastoplastic behavior of the SEI is the origin of the voltage hysteresis in silicon nanoparticle anodes. Thus, consideration of the SEI mechanics is crucial for further improvements.
Crystallization Enhancement and Ionic Defect Passivation in Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite for Efficient and Stable All‐Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Qiao Liang , Ye Tianshi , Wang Pengshuai , Wang Tao , Zhang Lin , Sun Ruitian , Kong Weiyu , Yang Xudong
Published: November 2023

By integrating wide‐bandgap (WBG) and narrow‐bandgap perovskites, monolithic all‐perovskite tandem solar cells have garnered significant attention as a prospective strategy for surpassing the efficiency limits of single‐junction cells. However, the WBG subcells, which significantly impact the performance and operational stability of all‐perovskite tandem solar cells, face notable challenges associated with pronounced nonradiative recombination losses and limited film photostability. Here, an efficient method is reported by adding potassium hypophosphite into the perovskite precursor solution to simultaneously regulate crystallization and passivate ionic defects in WBG perovskites. This approach results in high‐quality perovskite films and significantly improves the performance and photostability of WBG perovskite solar cells. The single‐junction devices with a 1.79 eV bandgap achieve a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.06% with an open‐circuit voltage of 1.32 V. The devices retain ≈96% of their initial PCE following 913 h of continuous AM 1.5 G illumination. With these WBG perovskite subcells, monolithic all‐perovskite tandem solar cells are fabricated with an efficiency of 26.08%.
Aurora Kinase B‐Instruct Release of AZD1152‐HQPA from Hydrogel to Enhance Cervical Cancer Suppression
Authors: Xu Guangqiong , Weng Qiao , Zhang Lei , Song Yaye , Zhan Wenjun , Yin Yuan , Liang Gaolin , Wang Fuqiang
Published: November 2023

Aurora kinase B (AURKB) is an attractive and potential molecular target for cervical cancer therapy. To date, a variety of AURKB inhibitors are developed to suppress cervical tumors. Nevertheless, direct use of these small molecule inhibitors may cause severe side effects to patients, limiting their further clinical applications. Herein, a rationally designed hydrogelator Nap‐Phe‐Phe‐Arg‐Arg‐Lys‐Ser‐OH (S) is employed to co‐assemble AZD1152‐HQPA (AZD, an AURKB inhibitor) to develop an AURKB‐responsive hydrogel Gel S/AZD for enhanced cervical tumor suppression. Upon AURKB activation, hydrogelator S in Gel S/AZD evolves into its hydrophilic phosphate Nap‐Phe‐Phe‐Arg‐Arg‐Lys‐Ser(H2PO3)‐OH (Sp), triggering the disassembly of Gel S/AZD to release AZD in a sustained manner. Cell assays reveal that AURKB‐responsive release of AZD from Gel S/AZD potently induces the growth arrest and apoptosis of cervical cancer cells by downregulating the expression level of AURKB downstream protein phospho‐histone H3 (pH3). In vivo studies demonstrate that compared with free AZD, Gel S/AZD shows a superior tumor suppressive effect in orthotropic cervical tumor models. It is envisioned that the Gel S/AZD might be applied in clinic cervical cancer treatment in the near future.
Integrating Aggregation Induced Emission and Twisted Intramolecular Charge Transfer via Molecular Engineering
Authors: Zhang Wei , Kong Jie , Miao Rong , Song Hongwei , Ma Yalei , Zhou Meng , Fang Yu
Published: November 2023

The pursuit of sensitive fluorescent chromophores with integrated aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) and twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) properties are attractive due to the tunable emission properties and increased intensity. However, this type of chromophore has yet to be exemplified mechanistically. In this study, a strategy is presented for manipulating the formation of TICT and the AIE effect through molecular engineering. The feasibility of TICT properties is validated by theoretical calculations and ultrafast spectroscopies. By precisely adjusting the hydrophobicity of the donor group, the fluorescence is significantly enhanced through the addition of poor solvent. These findings not only provide mechanistic elucidation for chromophores exhibiting integrated TICT and AIE properties in various environmental conditions but also underscore the critical factors for the systematic design of chromophores with high tunability and strong emissions.
3D Printed Photothermal Scaffold Sandwiching Bacteria Inside and Outside Improves The Infected Microenvironment and Repairs Bone Defects
Authors: Zhao Youzi , Kang Honglei , Xia Yuhao , Sun Lingshun , Li Feng , Dai Honglian
Published: November 2023

Bone infection is one of the most devastating orthopedic outcomes, and overuse of antibiotics may cause drug‐resistance problems. Photothermal therapy(PTT) is a promising antibiotic‐free strategy for treating infected bone defects. Considering the damage to normal tissues and cells caused by high‐temperature conditions in PTT, this study combines the antibacterial property of Cu to construct a multi‐functional Cu2O@MXene/alpha‐tricalcium phosphate (α‐TCP) scaffold support with internal and external sandwiching through 3D printing technology. On the “outside”, the excellent photothermal property of Ti3C2 MXene is used to carry out the programmed temperature control by the active regulation of 808 nm near‐infrared (NIR) light. On the “inside”, endogenous Cu ions gradually release and the release accumulates within the safe dose range. Specifically, programmed temperature control includes brief PTT to rapidly kill early bacteria and periodic low photothermal stimulation to promote bone tissue growth, which reduces damage to healthy cells and tissues. Meanwhile, Cu ions are gradually released from the scaffold over a long period of time, strengthening the antibacterial effect of early PTT, and promoting angiogenesis to improve the repair effect. PTT combined with Cu can deliver a new idea forinfected bone defects through in vitro and vivo application.
A Functional Stent Encapsulating Radionuclide in Temperature‐Memory Spiral Tubes for Malignant Stenosis of Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Guo Huanqing , Huang Tao , Dai Yi , Fan Qichao , Zhang Yanling , He Yao , Huang Shuke , He Xiaofeng , Hu Pan , Chen Guanyu , Zhu Wenliang , Zhong Zhihui , Liu Dengyao , Lu Ligong , Zhang Fujun
Published: November 2023

Stent implantation is a commonly used palliative treatment for alleviating stenosis in advanced esophageal cancer. However, tissue proliferation induced by stent implantation and continuous tumor growth can easily lead to restenosis. Therefore, functional stents are required to relieve stenosis while inhibiting tissue proliferation and tumor growth, thereby extending the patency. Currently, no ideal functional stents are available. Here, iodine‐125 (125I) nuclides are encapsulated into a nickel–titanium alloy (NiTi) tube to develop a novel temperature‐memory spiral radionuclide stent (TSRS). It has the characteristics of temperature‐memory, no cold regions at the end of the stent, and a uniform spatial dose distribution. Cell‐viability experiments reveal that the TSRS can reduce the proliferation of fibroblasts and tumor cells. TSRS implantation is feasible and safe, has no significant systemic radiotoxicity, and can inhibit in‐stent and edge stenosis caused by stent‐induced tissue proliferation in healthy rabbits. Moreover, TSRS can improve malignant stenosis and luminal patency resulting from continuous tumor growth in a VX2 esophageal cancer model. As a functional stent, the TSRS combines the excellent properties of NiTi with brachytherapy of the 125I nuclide and will make significant contributions to the treatment of malignant esophageal stenosis.
Deformation‐Induced Photoprogrammable Pattern of Polyurethane Elastomers Based on Poisson Effect
Authors: Yan Shuzhen , Deng Xinlu , Chen Shuai , Ma Tianjiao , Li Tiantian , Hu Kaiming , Jiang Xuesong
Published: November 2023

Elastomers with high aspect ratio surface patterns are a promising class of materials for designing soft machines in the future. Here, a facile method for fabricating surface patterns on polyurethane elastomer by subtly utilizing the Poisson effect and gradient photocrosslinking is demonstrated. By applying uniaxial tensile strains, the aspect ratio of the surface patterns can be optionally manipulated. At prestretched state, the pattern on the polyurethane elastomer can be readily constructed through compressive stress, resulting from the gradient photocrosslinking via selective photodimerization of an anthracene‐functionalized polyurethane elastomer (referred to as ANPU). The macromolecular aggregation structures during stretching deformation significantly contribute to the fabrication of high aspect ratio surface patterns. The insightful finite element analysis well demonstrates that the magnitude and distribution of internal stress in the ANPU elastomer can be regulated by selectively gradient crosslinking, leading to polymer chains migrate from the exposed region to the unexposed region, thereby generating a diverse array of surface patterns. Additionally, the periodic surface patterns exhibit tunable structural color according to the different stretching states and are fully reversible over multiple cycles, opening up avenues for diverse applications such as smart displays, stretchable strain sensors, and anticounterfeiting devices.
Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to Ethylene: From Advanced Catalyst Design to Industrial Applications
Authors: Lu Tianrui , Xu Ting , Zhu Shaojun , Li Jun , Wang Jichang , Jin Huile , Wang Xin , Lv Jing‐Jing , Wang Zheng‐Jun , Wang Shun
Published: November 2023

The value‐added chemicals, monoxide, methane, ethylene, ethanol, ethane, and so on, can be efficiently generated through the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO2RR) when equipped with suitable catalysts. Among them, ethylene is particularly important as a chemical feedstock for petrochemical manufacture. However, despite its high Faradaic efficiency achievable at relatively low current densities, the substantial enhancement of ethylene selectivity and stability at industrial current densities poses a formidable challenge. To facilitate the industrial implementation of eCO2RR for ethylene production, it is imperative to identify key strategies and potential solutions through comprehending the recent advancements, remaining challenges, and future directions. Herein, the latest and innovative catalyst design strategies of eCO2RR to ethylene are summarized and discussed, starting with the properties of catalysts such as morphology, crystalline, oxidation state, defect, composition, and surface engineering. The review subsequently outlines the related important state‐of‐the‐art technologies that are essential in driving forward eCO2RR to ethylene into practical applications, such as CO2 capture, product separation, and downstream reactions. Finally, a greenhouse model that integrates CO2 capture, conversion, storage, and utilization is proposed to present an ideal perspective direction of eCO2RR to ethylene.
1D Sb2S3 with Strong Mie Resonance Toward Highly‐Sensitive Polarization‐Discriminating Photodetection and Its Application in High‐Temperature‐Proof Imaging and Dual‐Channel Communications
Authors: Ma Yuhang , Ma Churong , Yi Huaxin , Liang Huanrong , Wang Wan , Zheng Zhaoqiang , Zou Yichao , Deng Zexiang , Yao Jiandong , Yang Guowei
Published: November 2023

High‐speed and sensitive UV–Vis photodetectors have been constructed based on a typical 1D van der Waals material, antimony sulfide (Sb2S3). Impressively, the Sb2S3 nanowire photodetector demonstrates pronounced photosensitivity exhibiting a remarkable on/off ratio of ≈2800 under a power density of 318 mW cm−2. In addition, a high responsivity, an outstanding detectivity, and a short response/recovery time of 270 A W−1, 4.37 × 1013 Jones, and 10/12 ms are achieved. The competitive photosensitivity is associated with the intrinsic Mie resonance of the Sb2S3 nanowire, which is conducive to enhancing the coupling of the Sb2S3 photosensitive channel with incident light. By virtue of the unique 1D structural nature in both intrinsic and extrinsic perspectives, the Sb2S3 nanowire photodetectors manifest distinct polarization‐discriminating photoresponse with the optimal dichroic ratio reaching ≈7.2. Moreover, the Sb2S3 nanowire photodetectors demonstrate stable photoresponse from room temperature to 160 °C, and these nanodevices are durable against long‐term high‐temperature heating treatment at up to 300 °C. Taking advantage of the excellent thermal robustness, high‐temperature‐proof optoelectronic imaging and dual‐channel optical communication applications are demonstrated based on low‐dimensional van der Waals materials. On the whole, this study provides a new option for an advanced multifunctional optoelectronic system in extreme working environments.
Mismatch of Quasi–Fermi Level Splitting and Voc in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Warby Jonathan , Shah Sahil , Thiesbrummel Jarla , Gutierrez‐Partida Emilio , Lai Huagui , Alebachew Biruk , Grischek Max , Yang Fengjiu , Lang Felix , Albrecht Steve , Fu Fan , Neher Dieter , Stolterfoht Martin
Published: November 2023

Perovskite solar cells have demonstrated low non‐radiative voltage losses and open‐circuit voltages (VOCs) that often match the internal voltage in the perovskite layer, i.e. the quasi‐Femi level splitting (QFLS). However, in many cases, the VOC differs remarkably from the internal voltage, for example in devices without perfect energy alignment. In terms of recombination losses, this loss often outweighs all non‐radiative recombination losses observed in photoluminescence quantum efficiency measurements by many orders of magnitude. As such, understanding this phenomenon is of great importance for further perovskite solar cell development and tackling stability issues. The classical theory developed for Si solar cells explains the QFLS‐VOC mismatch by considering the partial resistances/conductivities for majority and minority carriers. Here, the authors demonstrate that this generic theory applies to a variety of physical mechanisms that give rise to such a mismatch. Additionally, it is found that mobile ions can contribute to a QFLS‐VOC mismatch in realistic perovskite cells, and it is demonstrated that this can explain various key observations about light soaking and aging‐induced VOC losses. The findings in this paper shine a light on well‐debated topics in the community, identify a new degradation loss, and highlight important design principles to maximize the VOC for improved perovskite solar cells.
A pathological convergence theory for non‐communicable diseases
Authors: Padrón‐Monedero Alicia
Published: November 2023

The current paradigm considers the study of non‐communicable diseases (NCDs), which are the main causes of mortality, as individual disorders. Nevertheless, this conception is being solidly challenged by numerous remarkable studies. The clear fact that the mortality, by virtually all NCDs, tends to cluster at old ages (with the exception of congenital malformations and certain types of cancer, among a few others); makes us intuitive to assume that the common convergence mechanism that exponentially increases mortality by almost all NCDs in older ages is cell aging. Moreover, when we study NCDs, we are not analyzing which disorders cause the mortality of the populations, rather that which disorders kill us before others do, because the aging of the individuals causes inevitably their death by one cause or another. This is not a defeatist perspective, but a challenging and efficient one. These intuitive assumptions have been supported by studies from the pathophysiologic, epidemiologic, and genetic fields, leading to the affirmation that, as NCDs share genetic and pathophysiological mechanisms (derived from mostly the same risk factors), they should no longer be considered independently. Those studies should make us reconsider our current conceptions of studying NCDs as individual disorders, and to hypothesize about a paradigm that would consider most NCDs (cancer, neurological pathologies, cardiovascular diseases, type II diabetes mellitus, chronic respiratory diseases, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis, among others) different manifestations of the same process: the cell aging.
Self‐Powered Smart Proximity‐Detection System Based on a Hybrid Magneto‐Mechano‐Electric Generator
Authors: Kim Han-Sol , Kumar Naveen , Choi Jong-Jin , Yoon Woon-Ha , Yi Sam Nyung , Jang Jongmoon
Published: November 2023

A hybrid magneto‐mechano‐electric (H‐MME) generator that combines a Mn‐doped Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 piezoelectric single crystal and an electromagnetic induction coil is demonstrated to convert stray magnetic noise of 60 Hz into useful electrical energy. The authors optimize the design of the piezoelectric cantilever, the weight of the magnetic mass, and the distance between the magnet and coil through theoretical simulation and experiments to maximize each contribution for the H‐MME generator. The total root mean square output power of the H‐MME generator is 28.35 mW with a power density of 0.042 mW cm−3 Oe2 in a 5 Oe magnetic field of 60 Hz, which is sufficient for driving multiple functional Internet of Things sensors that detect temperature, humidity, light, UV radiation, air pressure, and sound. In addition, a self‐powered smart proximity‐detection system (including a microcontroller unit, an ultrasonic sensor module, a piezo speaker, and a Bluetooth module) is demonstrated by rectifying the output of the H‐MME generator and controlling it using a power management circuit. The superior output power of the H‐MME generator exceeds simple sensing functions and presents the possibility of achieving battery‐free self‐powered smart devices and systems.
Eine photochemische Strategie für die Synthese von ortho‐Aminophenolen durch dearomative‐rearomative Kupplung zwischen Arylaziden und Alkoholen
Authors: Li Bo , Ruffoni Alessandro , Leonori Daniele
Published: November 2023

Ortho‐Aminophenole sind aromatische Derivate mit vicinalen N‐ und O‐basierten Funktionalitäten, welche häufig in den Strukturen vieler hochwertiger Materialien zu finden sind. Diese Moleküle werden in der Regel durch mehrstufige Synthesen hergestellt, bei denen die Regeln der elektrophilen aromatischen Substitution (SEAr) gefolgt werden. Trotz ihrer hohen Zuverlässigkeit können solche Ansätze nicht auf Substrate abzielen, welche eine “Kontra‐SEAr”‐Anordnung von N‐ und O‐Gruppen aufweisen. Hier berichten wir über eine alternative Strategie für die Herstellung solcher ortho‐Aminophenole unter Verwendung von Arylaziden als Vorstufen. Dieser Prozess verwendet energiearme Photoanregung um die Zersetzung von Arylaziden zu Singulett Nitrenen auzulösen, welche dann eine dearomative‐rearomative Sequenz durchlaufen. Dadurch wird der Einbau von alkoholischen Nukleophilen in ein siebengliedrigen Azepin‐Ring Intermediat durch vorübergehende Unterbrechung der Aromatizität ermöglicht, gefolgt von einer elektrophil‐induzierten Rearomatisierung. Der synthetische Wert und die Komplementarität dieser Strategie wurden durch die Kopplung von Arylaziden mit komplexen, wirkstoffartigen Alkoholen und Phenolen sowie mit Aminen, Thiolen und Thiophenolen nachgewiesen, was eine allgemeine Plattform für die schnelle und selektive Heterofunktionalisierung von Aromaten bietet.
Irreparable Interphase Chemistry Degradation Induced by Temperature Pulse in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cui Zehao , Guo Zezhou , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: November 2023

While it is widely recognized that the operating temperature significantly affects the energy density and cycle life of lithium‐ion batteries, the consequence of electrode‐electrolyte interphase chemistry to sudden environmental temperature changes remains inadequately understood. Here, we systematically investigate the effects of a temperature pulse (T pulse) on the electrochemical performance of LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) pouch full cells. By utilizing advanced characterization tools, such as time‐of‐flight secondary‐ion mass spectrometry, we reveal that the T pulse can lead to an irreversible degradation of cathode‐electrolyte interphase chemistry and architecture. Despite negligible immediate impacts on the solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) on graphite anode, aggregated cathode‐to‐anode chemical crossover gradually degrades the SEI by catalyzing electrolyte reduction decomposition and inducing metallic dead Li formation because of insufficient cathode passivation after the T pulse. Consequently, pouch cells subjected to the T pulse show an inferior cycle stability to those free of the T pulse. This work unveils the effects of sudden temperature changes on the interphase chemistry and cell performance, emphasizing the importance of a proper temperature management in assessing performance.
Guiding Zn Uniform Deposition with Polymer Additives for Long‐lasting and Highly Utilized Zn Metal Anodes
Authors: Feng Doudou , Jiao Yucong , Wu Peiyi
Published: November 2023

The parasitic side reaction on Zn anode is the key issue which hinders the development of aqueous Zn‐based energy storage systems on power‐grid applications. Here, a polymer additive (PMCNA) engineered by copolymerizing 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) and N‐acryloyl glycinamide (NAGA) was employed to regulate the Zn deposition environment for satisfying side reaction inhibition performance during long‐term cycling with high Zn utilization. The PMCNA can preferentially adsorb on Zn metal surface to form a uniform protective layer for effective water molecule repelling and side reaction resistance. In addition, the PMCNA can guide Zn nucleation and deposition along 002 plane for further side reaction and dendrite suppression. Consequently, the PMCNA additive can enable the Zn//Zn battery with an ultrahigh depth of discharge (DOD) of 90.0 % for over 420 h, the Zn//active carbon (AC) capacitor with long cycling lifespan, and the Zn//PANI battery with Zn utilization of 51.3 % at low N/P ratio of 2.6.
Composites produced from waste plastic with agricultural and energy sector by‐products
Authors: Lopez Claudia V. , Smith Rhett C.
Published: November 2023

A three‐stage route to chemically upcycle post‐consumer poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) to produce high compressive strength composites is reported. This procedure involves initial glycolysis with diethylene glycol to produce a mixture (GPET) comprising oligomers of 2–7 terephthalate units followed by trans/esterification of GPET with fatty acid chains supplied by brown grease, an agricultural by‐product of animal fat of relatively low nutritional or fuel value. This process yields PGB comprising a mixture of mono‐terephthalate ester derivatives. The olefin units provided by unsaturated fatty acid chains in brown grease were crosslinked by an inverse vulcanization reaction with elemental sulfur to give composites GBSx (x = wt% S, varied from 80%–90%). The compressive strengths of GBS80 (27.5 ± 2.6 MPa) and GBS90 (19.2 ± 0.8 MPa) exceed the compressive strength required of ordinary Portland cement (17 MPa) for its use in residential building foundations. The current route represents a way to repurpose waste plastic, energy sector by‐product sulfur, and agricultural by‐product brown grease to give high strength composites with mechanical properties suggesting their possible use to replace less sustainably sourced legacy structural materials.
Preparation of copolymer brush‐type restricted access microspheres with adjustable adsorption selectivity to variety of dyes
Authors: Bo Chunmiao , Tang Xiaofan , Jia Zhuanhong , Li Yinhai , Gong Bolin , Ma Xiaohua , Dai Xiaojun
Published: November 2023

Restricted access materials (RAMs) with adjustable selectivity was developed for the removal and detection of residual dyes for the solve problems of dye contamination. In this work, using homemade poly(4‐vinylbenzyl chloride‐co‐divinylbenzene) (PVBC/DVB) microspheres as substrate and successive two‐step surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI‐ATRP) as synthesis method, the two types of monomers, sodium 4‐vinylbenzene sulfonate (Nass) and styrene (St) were first grafted for constructing mixed interactions of adsorption sites, and then the hydrophilic glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) was polymerized, following by hydrolysis to construct diol groups on the external PVBC/DVB as the restricted access sites. The developed PVBC/DVB@poly(St‐co‐Nass)@poly(GMA) of adsorption properties was investigated by six dyes including methylene blue (MB), basic fuchsin (BF), acid fuchsin (AF), neutral red (NR), methyl orange (MO), and Congo red (CR), the adsorption capacities of those dyes and the removal rate for the binary mixed dye solution both rely on the ratio of St/Nass, confirming the adjustable adsorption selectivity. When PVBC/DVB@poly(St‐co‐Nass)@poly(GMA) was packed as solid phase extraction adsorbent in couple with UV–vis spectrum, it was applied to the determination of MB and BF in the water, fish and shrimp, good linearity with satisfactory recoveries for MB and BF are obtained to show the favorable practicability.
Monodisciplinary collaboration disrupts science more than multidisciplinary collaboration
Authors: Liu Xin , Bu Yi , Li Ming , Li Jiang
Published: November 2023

Collaboration across disciplines is a critical form of scientific collaboration to solve complex problems and make innovative contributions. This study focuses on the association between multidisciplinary collaboration measured by coauthorship in publications and the disruption of publications measured by the Disruption (D) index. We used authors' affiliations as a proxy of the disciplines to which they belong and categorized an article into multidisciplinary collaboration or monodisciplinary collaboration. The D index quantifies the extent to which a study disrupts its predecessors. We selected 13 journals that publish articles in six disciplines from the Microsoft Academic Graph (MAG) database and then constructed regression models with fixed effects and estimated the relationship between the variables. The findings show that articles with monodisciplinary collaboration are more disruptive than those with multidisciplinary collaboration. Furthermore, we uncovered the mechanism of how monodisciplinary collaboration disrupts science more than multidisciplinary collaboration by exploring the references of the sampled publications.
When constellations align: What early childhood pre‐service teachers need from online learning to become confident and competent teachers of the arts
Authors: Cain Melissa , Burke Katie , Nislev Eva
Published: November 2023

Pre‐service teachers need to experience authentic arts activities to confidently impart the quality arts engagement that young learners deserve. Most importantly, these experiences should contribute to shaping emerging teacher identities. We sought to understand the student experience of online early childhood pre‐service in their arts courses, and what they need to become competent and confident teachers of the arts. Using data from 51 responses to a 24‐question qualitative survey distributed across three Australian universities, we engaged in the methodological process of qualitative bricolage to present a story constellation offering important insights for online teacher‐educators in the arts.
Synthesis of biologically active proteins as L6KD‐SUMO fusions forming inclusion bodies in Escherichia coli
Authors: Komolov Aleksandr S. , Sannikova Evgeniia P. , Gorbunov Aleksandr A. , Gubaidullin Irek I. , Plokhikh Konstantin S. , Konstantinova Galina E. , Bulushova Natalia V. , Kuchin Sergei V. , Kozlov Dmitriy G.
Published: November 2023

A new platform has been developed to facilitate the production of biologically active proteins and peptides in Escherichia coli. The platform includes an N‐terminal self‐associating L6KD peptide fused to the SUMO protein (small ubiquitin‐like protein modifier) from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is known for its chaperone activity. The target proteins are fused at the C termini of the L6KD‐SUMO fusions, and the resulting three‐component fusion proteins are synthesized and self‐assembled in E. coli into so‐called active inclusion bodies (AIBs). In vivo, the L6KD‐SUMO platform facilitates the correct folding of the target proteins and directs them into AIBs, greatly simplifying their purification. In vitro, the platform facilitates the effective separation of AIBs by centrifugation and subsequent target protein release using SUMO‐specific protease. The properties of the AIBs were determined using five proteins with different sizes, folding efficiencies, quaternary structure, and disulfide modifications. Electron microscopy shows that AIBs are synthesized in the form of complex fibrillar structures resembling “loofah sponges” with unusually thick filaments. The obtained results indicate that the new platform has promising features and could be developed to facilitate the synthesis and purification of target proteins and protein complexes without the use of renaturation.
Embedding retrieval practice in undergraduate biochemistry teaching using PeerWise
Authors: Higgins Tanya , Dudley Ed , Bodger Owen , Newton Phil , Francis Nigel
Published: November 2023

Retrieval practice is an evidence‐based approach to teaching; here, we evaluate the use of PeerWise for embedding retrieval practice into summative assessment. PeerWise allows anonymous authoring, sharing, answering, rating, and feedback on peer‐authored multiple choice questions. PeerWise was embedded as a summative assessment in a large first‐year introductory biochemistry module. Engagement with five aspects of the tool was evaluated against student performance in coursework, exam, and overall module outcome. Results indicated a weak‐to‐moderate positive but significant correlation between engagement with PeerWise and assessment performance. Student feedback showed PeerWise had a polarizing effect; the majority recognized the benefits as a learning and revision tool, but a minority strongly disliked it, complaining of a lack of academic moderation and irrelevant questions unrelated to the module. PeerWise can be considered a helpful learning tool for some students and a means of embedding retrieval practice into summative assessment.