bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Microbiome and Metabolome Analysis Reveals Hypothalamic‐Comorbidities Related Signatures in Craniopharyngioma
Authors: Lin Ben , Ye Zhen , Cao Zhan , Ye Zhao , Yu Yifei , Jiang Weiliang , Guo Sichen , Melnikov Vladimir , Zhou Peng , Ji Chenxing , Shi Chengzhang , Wu Zerui , Chen Zhengyuan , Xu Yihua , Zhang Qilin , Ma Zengyi , Qiao Nidan , Chen Long , Shou Xuefei , Cao Xiaoyun , Zhou Xiang , Zhang Li , He Min , Wang Yongfei , Ye Hongying , Li Yiming , Zhang Zhaoyun , Wang Meng , Gao Renyuan , Zhang Yichao
Published: September 2024

Craniopharyngioma (CP) is an intracranial tumor with high mortality and morbidity. Though biologically benign, CP will damage the hypothalamus, inducing comorbidities such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cognitive impairments. The roles of gut microbiome and serum metabolome in CP‐associated hypothalamic comorbidities are aimed to be explored. Patients with CP are characterized by increased Shannon diversity, Eubacterium, Clostridium, and Roseburia, alongside decreased Alistipes and Bacteroides. CP‐enriched taxa are positively correlated with dyslipidemia and cognitive decline, while CP‐depleted taxa are negatively associated with fatty liver. Subsequent serum metabolomics identified notably up‐regulated purine metabolism, and integrative analysis indicated an association between altered microbiota and elevated hypoxanthine. Phenotypic study and multi‐omics analysis in the Rax‐CreERT2::BrafV600E/+::PtenFlox/+ mouse model validated potential involvement of increased Clostridium and dysregulated purine metabolism in hypothalamic comorbidities. To further consolidate this, intervention experiments are performed and it is found that hypoxanthine co‐variated with the severity of hypothalamic comorbidities and abundance of Clostridium, and induced dysregulated purine metabolism along with redox imbalance in target organs (liver and brain cortex). Overall, the study demonstrated the potential of increased Clostridium and up‐regulated purine metabolism as signatures of CP‐associated hypothalamic‐comorbidities, and unveiled that elevated Clostridium, dysregulated purine metabolism, and redox imbalance may mediate the development and progression of CP‐associated hypothalamic‐comorbidities.
Artificial Intelligence‐Enhanced Metasurfaces for Instantaneous Measurements of Dispersive Refractive Index
Authors: Badloe Trevon , Yang Younghwan , Lee Seokho , Jeon Dongmin , Youn Jaeseung , Kim Dong Sung , Rho Junsuk
Published: September 2024

Measurements of the refractive index of liquids are in high demand in numerous fields such as agriculture, food and beverages, and medicine. However, conventional ellipsometric refractive index measurements are too expensive and labor‐intensive for consumer devices, while Abbe refractometry is limited to the measurement at a single wavelength. Here, a new approach is proposed using machine learning to unlock the potential of colorimetric metasurfaces for the real‐time measurement of the dispersive refractive index of liquids over the entire visible spectrum. The platform with a proof‐of‐concept experiment for measuring the concentration of glucose is further demonstrated, which holds a profound impact in non‐invasive medical sensing. High‐index‐dielectric metasurfaces are designed and fabricated, while their experimentally measured reflectance and reflected colors, through microscopy and a standard smartphone, are used to train deep‐learning models to provide measurements of the dispersive background refractive index with a resolution of ≈10−4, which is comparable to the known index as measured with ellipsometry. These results show the potential of enabling the unique optical properties of metasurfaces with machine learning to create a platform for the quick, simple, and high‐resolution measurement of the dispersive refractive index of liquids, without the need for highly specialized experts and optical procedures.
Multifunctional Bionic Periosteum with Ion Sustained‐Release for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Mao Junjie , Sun Zhenqian , Wang Shidong , Bi Jianqiang , Xue Lu , Wang Lu , Wang Hongliang , Jiao Guangjun , Chen Yunzhen
Published: September 2024

In this study, a novel bionic periosteum (BP)‐bioactive glass fiber membrane (BGFM) is designed. The introduction of magnesium ion (Mg2+) and zinc ion (Zn2+) change the phase separation during the electrospinning (ES) jet stretching process. The fiber's pore structure transitions from connected to closed pores, resulting in a decrease in the rapid release of metal ions while also improving degradation via reducing filling quality. Additionally, the introduction of magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) lead to the formation of negative charged tetrahedral units (MgO42− and ZnO42−) in the glass network. These units effectively trap positive charged metal ions, further inhibiting ion release. In vitro experiments reveal that the deigned bionic periosteum regulates the polarization of macrophages toward M2 type, thereby establishing a conducive immune environment for osteogenic differentiation. Bioinformatics analysis indicate that BP enhanced bone repair via the JAK‐STAT signaling pathway. The slow release of metal ions from the bionic periosteum can directly enhance osteogenic differentiation and vascularization, thereby accelerating bone regeneration. Finally, the bionic periosteum exhibits remarkable capabilities in angiogenesis and osteogenesis, demonstrating its potential for bone repair in a rat calvarial defect model.
Novel Arf1 Inhibitors Drive Cancer Stem Cell Aging and Potentiate Anti‐Tumor Immunity
Authors: Wang Yuetong , Li Qiaoming , Ding Yahui , Luo Chenfei , Yang Jun , Wang Na , Jiang Ning , Yao Tiange , Wang Guohao , Shi Guoming , Hou Steven X.
Published: September 2024

The small G protein Arf1 has been identified as playing a selective role in supporting cancer stem cells (CSCs), making it an attractive target for cancer therapy. However, the current Arf1 inhibitors have limited translational potential due to their high toxicity and low specificity. In this study, two new potent small‐molecule inhibitors of Arf1, identified as DU101 and DU102, for cancer therapy are introduced. Preclinical tumor models demonstrate that these inhibitors triggered a cascade of aging in CSCs and enhance anti‐tumor immunity in mouse cancer and PDX models. Through single‐cell sequencing, the remodeling of the tumor immune microenvironment induced by these new Arf1 inhibitors is analyzed and an increase in tumor‐associated CD8+ CD4+ double‐positive T (DPT) cells is identified. These DPT cells exhibit superior features of active CD8 single‐positive T cells and a higher percentage of TCF1+PD‐1+, characteristic of stem‐like T cells. The frequency of tumor‐infiltrating stem‐like DPT cells correlates with better disease‐free survival (DFS) in cancer patients, indicating that these inhibitors may offer a novel cancer immunotherapy strategy by converting the cold tumor immune microenvironment into a hot one, thus expanding the potential for immunotherapy in cancer patients.
Calcium Peroxide‐Based Hydrogels Enable Biphasic Release of Hydrogen Peroxide for Infected Wound Healing
Authors: Huang Ying , Fu Zi , Wang Han , Liu Zeyang , Gao Mengqi , Luo Yanran , Zhang Meng , Wang Jing , Ni Dalong
Published: September 2024

Wound infection is a major factor affecting the speed and quality of wound healing. While hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is recognized for its antibacterial capacity and facilitation of wound healing, its administration requires careful dosage differentiation. Inappropriately matched dosages can protract the healing of infected wounds. Herein, a calcium peroxide‐based hydrogel (CPO‐Alg hydrogel) is fabricated to enable a biphasic tapered release of H2O2, ensuring robust initial antimicrobial activity followed by sustained promotion of cellular proliferation of wound healing. The design of the hydrogel allowed for the calcium peroxide nanoparticles (CPO NPs) being in two spatial niches within the gel framework. When applied to infectious wounds, CPO NPs with weak constraints are promptly released out of the gel, penetrating into infected regions to serve as antibacterial agents that eliminate bacteria and biofilms at high concentrations. Conversely, the entrapped CPO NPs structurally integrated into the gel remain confined, thus gradually degrading and allowing a mild release of H2O2 through hydrolysis in a moist environment that contributes to the cell growth in the later stage. The CPO‐Alg hydrogel represents an innovative and practical solution for the antimicrobial protection of chronic wounds, offering promising prospects for advancing wound healing.
2D Differential Metallic Immunopotentiators Drive High Diversity and Capability of Antigen‐specific Immunity Against Tumor
Authors: Ren Hongze , Zhu Anqi , Yang Wei , Jia Yiwen , Cheng Hui , Wu Ye , Tang Zhengqi , Ye Weifan , Sun Mayu , Xie Yujie , Yu Meihua , Chen Yu
Published: September 2024

The therapeutic efficacy of vaccines for treating cancers in clinics remains limited. Here, a rationally designed cancer vaccine by placing immunogenically differential and clinically approved aluminum (Al) or manganese (Mn) in a 2D nanosheet (NS) architecture together with antigens is reported. Structurally optimal NS with a high molar ratio of Mn to Al (MANS‐H) features distinctive immune modulation, markedly promoting the influx of heterogeneous innate immune cells at the injection site. Stimulation of multiple subsets of dendritic cells (DCs) significantly increases the levels, subtypes, and functionalities of antigen‐specific T cells. MANS‐H demonstrates even greater effectiveness in the production of antigen‐specific antibodies than the commercial adjuvant (Alhydrogel) by priming T helper (Th)2 cells rather than T follicular helper (Tfh) cells. Beyond humoral immunity, MANS‐H evokes high frequencies of antigen‐specific Th1 and CD8+ cell immunity, which are comparable with Quil‐A that is widely used in veterinary vaccines. Immunized mice with MANS‐H adjuvanted vaccines exert strong potency in tumor regression by promoting effector T cells infiltrating at tumor and overcoming tumor resistance in multiple highly aggressive tumor models. The engineered immunogen with an intriguing NS architecture and safe immunopotentiators offers the next clinical advance in cancer immunotherapy.
NEMO‐Binding Domain/IKKγ Inhibitory Peptide Alleviates Neuronal Pyroptosis in Spinal Cord Injury by Inhibiting ASMase‐Induced Lysosome Membrane Permeabilization
Authors: Geng Yibo , Lou Junsheng , Wu Junnan , Tao Zhichao , Yang Ningning , Kuang Jiaxuan , Wu Yuzhe , Zhang Jiacheng , Xiang Linyi , Shi Jingwei , Cai Yuepiao , Wang Xiangyang , Chen Jiaoxiang , Xiao Jian , Zhou Kailiang
Published: September 2024

A short peptide termed NEMO‐binding domain (NBD) peptide has an inhibitory effect on nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB). Despite its efficacy in inhibiting inflammatory responses, the precise neuroprotective mechanisms of NBD peptide in spinal cord injury (SCI) remain unclear. This study aims to determine whether the pyroptosis‐related aspects involved in the neuroprotective effects of NBD peptide post‐SCI.Using RNA sequencing, the molecular mechanisms of NBD peptide in SCI are explored. The evaluation of functional recovery is performed using the Basso mouse scale, Nissl staining, footprint analysis, Masson's trichrome staining, and HE staining. Western blotting, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays, and immunofluorescence assays are used to examine pyroptosis, autophagy, lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase), and the NF‐κB/p38‐MAPK related signaling pathway.NBD peptide mitigated glial scar formation, reduced motor neuron death, and enhanced functional recovery in SCI mice. Additionally, NBD peptide inhibits pyroptosis, ameliorate LMP‐induced autophagy flux disorder in neuron post‐SCI. Mechanistically, NBD peptide alleviates LMP and subsequently enhances autophagy by inhibiting ASMase through the NF‐κB/p38‐MAPK/Elk‐1/Egr‐1 signaling cascade, thereby mitigating neuronal death. NBD peptide contributes to functional restoration by suppressing ASMase‐mediated LMP and autophagy depression, and inhibiting pyroptosis in neuron following SCI, which may have potential clinical application value.
Endo‐Lysosomal Network Disorder Reprograms Energy Metabolism in SorL1‐Null Rat Hippocampus
Authors: Wang Yajie , Yang Yuting , Cai Ying , Aobulikasimu Ayikaimaier , Wang Yuexin , Hu Chuanwei , Miao Zhikang , Shao Yue , Zhao Mengna , Hu Yue , Xu Chang , Chen Xinjun , Li Zhiqiang , Chen Jincao , Wang Lianrong , Chen Shi
Published: September 2024

Sortilin‐related receptor 1 (SorL1) deficiency is a genetic predisposition to familial Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but its pathology is poorly understood. In SorL1‐null rats, a disorder of the global endosome‐lysosome network (ELN) is found in hippocampal neurons. Deletion of amyloid precursor protein (APP) in SorL1‐null rats could not completely rescue the neuronal abnormalities in the ELN of the hippocampus and the impairment of spatial memory in SorL1‐null young rats. These in vivo observations indicated that APP is one of the cargoes of SorL1 in the regulation of the ELN, which affects hippocampal‐dependent memory. When SorL1 is depleted, the endolysosome takes up more of the lysosome flux and damages lysosomal digestion, leading to pathological lysosomal storage and disturbance of cholesterol and iron homeostasis in the hippocampus. These disturbances disrupt the original homeostasis of the material‐energy‐subcellular structure and reprogram energy metabolism based on fatty acids in the SorL1‐null hippocampus, instead of glucose. Although fatty acid oxidation increases ATP supply, it cannot reduce the levels of the harmful byproduct ROS during oxidative phosphorylation, as it does in glucose catabolism. Therefore, the SorL1‐null rats exhibit hippocampal degeneration, and their spatial memory is impaired. Our research sheds light on the pathology of SorL1 deficiency in AD.
Atomic Phosphorus Sites for Anchoring Platinum–Tungsten Dimers to Facilitate Proton Transfer in All‐pH Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Guan Yi , Song Zhongxin , Xue Chuang , Yao Xiaozhang , Zheng Matthew Liu , Fu Jiamin , Li Weihan , Li Yongliang , Ren Xiangzhong , Zhang Lei , Liu Li‐Min , Sun Xueliang
Published: September 2024

Bimetallic single‐atom‐dimer (SAD) with unique electronic structures and adsorption properties presents exceptional catalytic performance owing to atomic‐level synergistic effects from direct bonding between different metal atoms. However, inherent characteristics of substrate present great challenges in their synthesis and mechanism investigation. Herein, a unique phosphorus modified atomic layer deposition (P‐ALD) strategy is designed to synthesize P‐anchored Pt–W dimers, overcoming substrate limitation (Pt1W1–P/C). Motivated introduction of atomic P site via ALD can effectively anchor one‐to‐one AB bimetallic dimer structure on various substrates, confirmed by X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Density functional theory reveals an interatomic synergistic adsorption mechanism, with W as primary hydrogen adsorption site extending to Pt, optimizing hydrogen coverage, leading to 60‐fold increase in mass activity compared to commercial Pt/C in both acidic and alkaline electrolytes. Anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer with ultra‐low loading Pt1W1–P/C (50 µgPt cm−2) catalyst operates durability at 1000 mA cm−2 for 550 h with ultra‐low degradation of 38 µV h−1. Operando XAS confirms hydrogen adsorption pathway between atoms and remarkable self‐healing ability of P–Pt–W–O sites under all‐pH conditions. These findings extend the application domain of SAD to catalytic manufacturing methods and aid in designing advanced materials with multi‐atomic active sites.
High‐Rate Polymeric Redox in MXene‐Based Superlattice‐Like Heterostructure for Ammonium Ion Storage
Authors: Chen Chaofan , Quek Glenn , Liu Hongjun , Bannenberg Lars , Li Ruipeng , Choi Jaehoon , Ren Dingding , Vázquez Ricardo Javier , Boshuizen Bart , Fimland Bjørn‐Ove , Fleischmann Simon , Wagemaker Marnix , Jiang De‐en , Bazan Guillermo Carlos , Wang Xuehang
Published: September 2024

Achieving both high redox activity and rapid ion transport is a critical and pervasive challenge in electrochemical energy storage applications. This challenge is significantly magnified when using large‐sized charge carriers, such as the sustainable ammonium ion (NH4+). A self‐assembled MXene/n‐type conjugated polyelectrolyte (CPE) superlattice‐like heterostructure that enables redox‐active, fast, and reversible ammonium storage is reported. The superlattice‐like structure persists as the CPE:MXene ratio increases, accompanied by a linear increase in the interlayer spacing of MXene flakes and a greater overlap of CPEs. Concurrently, the redox activity per unit of CPE unexpectedly intensifies, a phenomenon that can be explained by the enhanced de‐solvation of ammonium due to the increased volume of 3 Å‐sized pores, as indicated by molecular dynamic simulations. At the maximum CPE mass loading (MXene:CPE ratio = 2:1), the heterostructure demonstrates the strongest polymeric redox activity with a high ammonium storage capacity of 126.1 C g−1 and a superior rate capability at 10 A g−1. This work unveils an effective strategy for designing tunable superlattice‐like heterostructures to enhance redox activity and achieve rapid charge transfer for ions beyond lithium.
Use of capture–recapture models to evaluate abundance and dynamics of a stocked Muskellunge population
Authors: Shroyer Steven M. , Hodgins Nathaniel C.
Published: September 2024

To evaluate the success of a stocking program in Fox Lake, Minnesota, adult (≥76 cm total length) Muskellunge were captured with large nearshore trap nets and individually marked with passive integrated transponder tags during the 2011–2013 and 2015–2017 spawning seasons; then, capture–recapture data were analyzed at two different time scales. Despite substantial sampling effort, daily capture histories within a single season only supported closed‐population abundance estimates for both sexes in half the years; estimates were imprecise, and there was evidence of trap shyness or violation of the short‐term closure assumption in some years. Jolly–Seber models over all years supported relatively precise abundance estimates for both sexes every year, as well as estimates of annual survival, recruitment, and population growth rate. Link–Barker Jolly–Seber models provided estimates of population growth rate λ ≈ 1 indicating that per‐capita annual recruitment rates of only about 0.15–0.20 were adequate to maintain the adult population given the high annual apparent survival rates of 0.80 for adult females and 0.89 for adult males. POPAN Jolly–Seber models revealed that about 80 adult females and 90–126 adult males were vulnerable to capture each year in the 385 ha lake, and about 16–18 fish of each sex recruited to the adult population annually. This study illustrates the importance of open‐population models with multiple years of data to evaluate the abundance and population dynamics of a low‐density, long‐lived species.
Nitrogen credits after peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Mulvaney Michael J. , Iboyi Joseph E. , Balkcom Kipling S. , Jordan David , Zurweller Brendan , Jani Arun
Published: September 2024

State‐level cooperative extension services provide fertilizer recommendations for row crops in the United States. Of these, nitrogen (N) recommendations are arguably the most important because N is the most common yield‐limiting nutrient in nonlegume crop production systems. Throughout the peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) growing region of the United States, Cooperative Extension Services generally recommends 22–67 kg N/ha credit to crops following peanut, likely due to the assumption that peanut, being a legume, contributes N to the following crop. The body of peer‐reviewed literature indicates that N credits from peanut to the subsequent crop are negligible. Recent literature indicates that apparent differences in yield following peanut compared to a nonlegume are a result of nonlegume crop residue favoring N immobilization rather than N mineralization from peanut residue. Taken together, recent research corroborates the few previous scientific publications addressing the issue, namely, that cooperative extension service recommendations to reduce N fertilization to crops after peanut are not supported by the peer‐reviewed literature. Future field research should include summer fallows to determine if yield differences between legumes and nonlegumes are due to N credits by the legume or N immobilization by nonlegumes. Data on N loss pathways following peanut are needed to identify management strategies that can mitigate N losses after peanut harvest. In conclusion, the preponderance of peer‐reviewed science does not support current Extension recommendations regarding peanut N credits to the following crop.
Decoupling Implantation Prediction and Embryo Ranking in Machine Learning: The Impact of Clinical Data and Discarded Embryos
Authors: Erlich Itay , Saravelos Sotirios H. , Hickman Cristina , Ben‐Meir Assaf , Har‐Vardi Iris , Grifo James A. , Kahraman Semra , Zaritsky Assaf
Published: September 2024

Automated live embryo imaging has transformed in vitro fertilization (IVF) into a data‐intensive field. Unlike clinicians who rank embryos from the same IVF cycle cohort based on the embryos visual quality and determine how many embryos to transfer based on clinical factors, machine learning solutions usually combine these steps by optimizing for implantation prediction and using the same model for ranking the embryos within a cohort. Herein, it is established that this strategy can lead to suboptimal selection of embryos. It is revealed that despite enhancing implantation prediction, inclusion of clinical properties hampers ranking. Moreover, it is found that ambiguous labels of failed implantations, due to either low‐quality embryos or poor clinical factors, confound both the optimal ranking and even implantation prediction. To overcome these limitations, conceptual and practical steps are proposed to enhance machine learning‐driven IVF solutions. These consist of separating the optimizing of implantation from ranking by focusing on visual properties for ranking and reducing label ambiguity.
Double Teeth and Coexistent Anomalies: Examples From Continental Africa
Authors: Irish Joel D.
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Whether gemination or fusion, double teeth are rare worldwide, including Africa based on few published data. New cases from the continent are tallied, and anomalies potentially associated with double teeth are identified. These findings should interest a range of dental researchers.

Methods

The presence of double teeth was recorded in 97 modern and premodern North and sub‐Saharan African samples (5631 inds.). They and coexistent anomalies are described relative to published examples. Prevalence was estimated as possible, using a Poisson model for 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Three maxillary double teeth were identified: a primary left lateral incisor in a Nubian child (1938–1756 BC), permanent left central incisor in an adult Egyptian (3650–3500 BC), and permanent right central incisor in a modern (19th century) adult from Guinea. Each co‐occurs, respectively, with a talon cusp, peg lateral incisor and, in the latter individual, second premolar crown variation with rotation, and third molar dens evaginatus. Double tooth prevalence is 0.048% (CI 0.001%–0.270%), with regional variation, in premodern, and 0.000% in modern North Africans. It is 0.000% for premodern and 0.048% for modern sub‐Saharan Africans (0.008%–1.714%).

Conclusions

The double incisors are comparable to other global examples, indicative of common developmental processes during odontogenesis. Prevalence is lower than published modern rates, to suggest some exceptionality in Africans as reported earlier for other dental variants. Finally, though circumstantial, double teeth and accompanying anomalies may share an etiology. Continuing research overall, and in Africa specifically, will promote an improved understanding of double teeth formation and expression.
Vinylene‐Linked Donor‐π‐Acceptor Metal‐Covalent Organic Framework for Enhanced Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Li Shanshan , Gao Chaomin , Yu Haihan , Wang Yuwen , Wang Shuai , Ding Wenwen , Zhang Lina , Yu Jinghua
Published: September 2024

Intramolecular charge separation driving force and linkage chemistry between building blocks are critical factors for enhancing the photocatalytic performance of metal‐covalent organic framework (MCOF) based photocatalyst. However, robust achieving both simultaneously has yet to be challenging despite ongoing efforts. Here we develop a fully π‐conjugated vinylene‐linked multivariate donor‐π‐acceptor MCOF (D‐π‐A, termed UJN‐1) by integrating benzyl cyanides linker with multiple functional building blocks of electron‐rich triphenylamine and electron‐deficient copper‐cyclic trinuclear units (Cu‐CTUs) moieties, featuring with strong intramolecular charge separation driving force, extended conjugation degree of skeleton, and abundant active sites. The incorporation of Cu‐CTUs acceptor with electron‐withdrawing ability and concomitantly giant charge separation driving force can efficiently accelerate the photogenerated electrons transfer from triphenylamine to Cu‐CTUs, revealing by experiments and theoretical calculations. Benefiting from the synergistically effect of D‐π‐A configuration and vinylene linkage, the highly‐efficient charge spatial separation is achieved. Consequently, UJN‐1 exhibits an excellent CO formation rate of 114.8 μmol g−1 in 4 h without any co‐catalysts or sacrificial reagents under visible light, outperforming those analogous MCOFs with imine‐linked (UJN‐2, 28.9 μmol g−1) and vinylene‐linked COF without Cu‐CTU active sites (UJN‐3, 50.0 μmol g−1), emphasizing the role of charge separation driving force and linkage chemistry in designing novel COFs‐based photocatalyst.
Multicentric Water‐Stabilized Lanthanide Coordination Polymers for the Highly Sensitive and Rapid Detection of Riboflavin
Authors: Zhou Zixuan , Jiang Yuhan , Luo Xin , Zhang Ying , Wang Lei , Sun Yaguang , Liu Jingwei , Zhu Mingchang , Cao Jinchao , Wu Shuangyan
Published: September 2024

Milk, owing to its nutritional value, is a staple commodity in daily life. Ensuring its integrity and authenticity is paramount for researchers and the food industry. To evaluate spoilage and adulteration of milk, we proposed a robust and reliable optical method to guarantee milk quality by utilizing riboflavin as an internal biomarker. By precisely controlling the content of Eu3+, Tb3+, and Gd3+ ions, a two‐dimensional ratiometric luminescence lanthanide coordination polymer (Ln‐CP) with adjustable emission centers was synthesized for the detection of riboflavin (RF), leveraging a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and photoinduced electron transfer (PET) process. This method demonstrates high sensitivity and selectivity towards RF and has been successfully applied to the detection of RF in both milk and calf serum.
Surface modification of sodium hyaluronate with ferulic acid to enhance its application performance
Authors: Zhang Qianjie , Wang Pingli , Zhang Dongmei , Zheng Shilian , Zhang Wanping
Published: September 2024

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a mucopolysaccharide alternately linked by glucuronic acid and n‐acetylglucosamine, which is usually used as a moisturizer in cosmetics. In this study, HA derivative (FA‐HA) was prepared by modifying sodium hyaluronate with ferulic acid (FA). The chemical and morphological structure of FA‐HA were characterized by UV, FTIR, 1H‐NMR, DLS and TEM. The results showed that FA was grafted onto HA chains via ester bonds and self‐assembled into nanoparticles in aqueous solution. The introduction of FA endowed the nanoparticles with antioxidant function. The FRAP value of 10 mg/mL FA‐HA was 1.985 mM, and the clearance rate of O2−, DPPH+ and ABTS+ could reach 83.13%, 88.86% and 99.48% respectively. Moreover, FA‐HA can be used as Pickering emulsifiers to stabilize the emulsion. The results showed that the size of emulsion droplets decreased as the concentration of FA‐HA increased. When the mass ratio of oil to water was 7/3, the emulsion droplets were the smallest. The addition of sodium chloride will increase the size of emulsion droplets, destroying the stability of the emulsion. In addition, FA‐HA was also universal and was capable of emulsifying alkanes, esters, and natural oils, which was expected to be applied in the cosmetics and food fields.
Wash‐stable electrospun piezopolymer textiles
Authors: Jiao Yuxin , Alsup Zachary , Sepasi Zahra , Mosadegh Mahdi , Khakzad Moein , Minary‐Jolandan Majid
Published: September 2024

Smart textiles are currently being pursued for actuation and sensing for their potential to directly incorporate “intelligence” into the fabric, in contrast to wearable technologies. In smart textiles, smart materials (e.g., piezoelectric) are formed into yarns that are woven into fabrics for clothing. One immediate requirement for such textiles is their stability during washing cycles, as expected of any clothing items, which has been largely lacking so far. Here, we investigate the washing stability of nanofibrous piezoelectric textiles. Our results reveal that electrospun textiles exhibit remarkable structural stability from the fiber microstructure to the textile level. Overall fiber crystalline composition and electroactive phase remain stable within 1% of ~47% and ~85%, respectively. Mechanically, the textile displays sustained performance, with only negligible changes observed. The yield strain and stress only show a ~8% and 9% differences, respectively. Moreover, piezoelectric stability is confirmed through phase preservation and slight variation in voltage output of ~6%. These results prove the candidacy that the processing of electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) fibers to woven textiles is applicable to the demands of smart textiles, which is expected to accelerate the commercialization of such textiles for wearable robotics and health monitoring.
Encapsulating montmorillonite and ammonium polyphosphate in one polyurea microcapsule to improve flame‐retardant and mechanical properties of polypropylene composites
Authors: Jiang Licong , Ren Liyuan , Zhang Yongsheng , Zhou Weiliang , Wang Xinlong , Xiao Leqin
Published: September 2024

Ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and montmorillonite (MMT) have been widely used in the flame‐retardant of polypropylene (PP), but the low synergistic flame‐retardant efficiency and their poor compatibility with PP matrix need to be greatly improved. In this work, APP and MMT were encapsulated in the one microcapsule (PU@A‐M) at the determined optimal ratio through the “bridging” reactions of diethylenetriamine (DETA) with APP and MMT. Compared with the PP/A + M composites with the physical mixture of APP and MMT, the limiting oxygen index, peak of heat release rate, total heat release, and total smoke production of PP/PU@A‐M were decreased by 5.7%, 48.8%, 3.1%, and 20%, respectively. The well‐dispersed PU@A‐M with charring‐forming agent (CFA) generated continuous and compact char layers with COP, COSi, and SiOP crosslinking structure. Furthermore, the tensile strength and elongation at break of PP/PU@A‐M were enhanced by 4.8% and 36.9%, respectively, as compared with PP/A + M because of good dispersibility and compatibility of PU@A‐M in PP matrix.
Self‐cleaning films of biopolymer polyhydroxybutyrate with different semiconductors incorporation: Development, characterization, and photocatalytic activity evaluation
Authors: Capello L. , Arsufi A. B. L. , Lansarin M. A.
Published: September 2024

Self‐cleaning hydrophobic films were developed using polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), enhanced with titanium dioxide (TiO2), bismuth oxyiodide (BiOI), and a BiOI/α‐Fe2O3 heterojunction. This is the first study to analyze the photoactivity of BiOI and BiOI/α‐Fe2O3 immobilized into PHB. Alternative solvents for dissolving PHB were investigated. Additionally, formation methods such as casting in Petri dishes, as well as controlled thickness casting through non‐solvent‐induced phase separation (NIPS), and evaporation‐induced phase separation (EIPS), were employed and compared. Despite differing morphologies, both NIPS and EIPS films exhibited similar photocatalytic activity, suggesting that only the catalyst on the external surface of the film is active. The highest pseudo first‐order apparent kinetic constant (0.1468 ± 0.0015 min−1 g−1) was found in films with the lowest polymer and catalyst concentrations analyzed (5% and 3% ). A double‐layer film preparation method was proposed to enhance photocatalytic activity, resulting in a 70% increase in the kinetic constant (0.2506 ± 0.0019 min−1 g−1). Double‐layer composite films with BiOI and BiOI/α‐Fe2O3 showed photocatalytic activity comparable to TiO2 under UV–visible light. Furthermore, their photocatalytic activity under visible light was confirmed, unlike TiO2, which exhibits a negligible kinetic constant in this wavelength range.
Optimizing Prussian Blue Analogues for Potassium‐Ion Batteries: Advanced Strategies
Authors: Hu Zihao , Zhang Bo , Zhang Hehe , Ma Yanjiao
Published: September 2024

Potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs), with the merits of abundant resources and low cost, have rapidly garnered attention as a potential candidate for large‐scale energy storage. Among the various contenders, Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) are considered one of the most suitable cathode materials owing to their relatively easy and economical synthesis as well as the three‐dimensional open framework which facilitates fast potassium ions intercalation without causing drastic volume expansion. Despite these advantages, integrating PBA as a cathode material for PIBs presents substantial challenges, which hinder their further practical applications. Herein, a fundamental review on the development and advance of PBAs in PIBs is presented with the elucidation of their synthesis methods, structural characteristics, and optimization strategies. Particularly, key areas of focus include regulating crystal structures, doping transition metals, engineering interfaces, and employing innovative techniques such as high‐entropy approaches are highlighted. Finally, critical perspectives for future development of PBAs toward practical potassium‐based energy storage devices are proposed.
Rückverankerung beim Durchtrennen historischer Spannglieder
Authors: Betz Peter , Pech Jenny , Diers Johannes , Schacht Gregor , Marx Steffen
Published: September 2024

Immer häufiger werden Spannbetonbrücken in Deutschland zurückgebaut. Problematisch ist dabei in der Regel die ungenügende Kenntnis über die Eigenschaften der verbauten Bestandsmaterialien. Insbesondere der Zustand der Spannglieder und des Verpressmörtels lässt sich nur schwer feststellen. Im Zuge des Rückbaus kann eine Durchtrennung der Spannglieder abseits der Koppelfugen aus bauablaufsbedingten Gründen von Vorteil sein. Voraussetzung für die Sicherstellung der Tragsicherheit des Rückbauabschnitts ist eine erfolgreiche Verbundverankerung der Spannglieder mit dem umgebenden Verpressmörtel, dem Hüllrohr und dem Beton. Neben einem guten Zustand der Spannglieder und des Verpressmörtels ist eine ausreichende Kenntnis dieses Verbundverhaltens daher essentiell. Angaben zu den Verbundeigenschaften des bei der Talbrücke Unterrieden verbauten Spannstahls ließen sich in der Literatur jedoch kaum finden. Daher wurden während des Rückbaus der Talbrücke Unterrieden Untersuchungen zur Erkundung des Zustands der Spannglieder durchgeführt. Dazu gehörten Rückdehnungsmessungen zur Ermittlung der vorhandenen Vorspannung und Zugversuche an Spannstäben, die im Anschluss an die Rückdehnungsmessungen aus dem Bauwerk entnommen wurden. Weiterhin wurden Verbundprobekörper aus der Brücke entnommen und im Labor getestet, um Rückschlüsse auf das Verankerungsverhalten der Spannglieder ziehen zu können. Anhand dieser Untersuchungen sollen die in der Rückbauplanung getroffenen Annahmen verifiziert werden.
Beton mit 100 % rezyklierter Gesteinskörnung – Erfahrungsbericht zu acht Praxisprojekten
Authors: Wild Peter , Kustermann Andrea , Stengel Thorsten
Published: September 2024

Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird über acht Anwendungsbeispiele aus der Praxis für Beton mit 100 % rezyklierter Gesteinskörnung berichtet. Die Anwendungen umfassen bewehrte/unbewehrte Bohrpfähle, Fundamente, tragende Innen‐/Außenwände, Stützen und Deckenplatten sowie frei bewitterte Fertigteile. Einige Bauteile wurden als Sichtbeton ausgeführt. Das jeweilige Projekt wird zusammen mit den Ergebnissen der Betonentwicklung und Betonprüfung sowie den Erfahrungen aus der Erwirkung der Zustimmungen im Einzelfall zusammengefasst. Auf Basis der Erkenntnisse aus den verschiedenen Praxisprojekten kann geschlussfolgert werden, dass für eine Vielzahl von Anwendungsfällen, bislang begrenzt auf bis zu XC4 und XF3, Beton mit 100 % RC‐GK verwendet werden kann. Druckfestigkeiten für Ortbeton bis C35/45 mit guter Verarbeitbarkeit auch bei Pumpbeton (hier: Pumpstrecke 40 m) unter Verwendung von 100 % RC‐GK Typ 1 waren problemlos möglich. Für Fertigteile wurde ein Beton mit ausreichender Frühfestigkeit und einer Endfestigkeit von C40/50 entwickelt. In zwei Beispielen wurde für die grobe Kornfraktion RC‐GK Typ 2 und für den Sand RC‐GK Typ 1 verwendet. Alle vorgestellten Projekte sind bereits abgeschlossen oder befinden sich kurz vor Abschluss. Die Machbarkeit von 100 % R‐Beton in der Praxis konnte somit in mehreren Fällen erfolgreich aufgezeigt werden. Ziel ist dabei nicht, ausschließlich den Einsatz von Beton mit 100 % RC‐GK zu propagieren, sondern zur Verwendung von RC‐GK grundsätzlich zu motivieren.
Eine modulare Segmentbrücke mit thermisch umgeformter Carbonbewehrung
Authors: Rettinger Martin , Zernsdorf Kai , Wilhelm Kai , Hückler Alex , Schlaich Mike
Published: September 2024

Modulares Bauen ermöglicht die serielle Vorfertigung von Bauelementen und verlagert Herstellungsprozesse von der Baustelle in die geschützte Umgebung des Fertigteilwerks. In einer Serienfertigung mit hinreichenden Stückzahlen wird die Rationalisierung, Digitalisierung und Automatisierung von Fertigungsprozessen wirtschaftlich und Skaleneffekte können ausgeschöpft werden. Bei der konstruktiven Umsetzung von modularen Baustrukturen steht der entwerfende Ingenieur vor der Herausforderung, diese in sinnvolle Module zu gliedern und Fügestellen tragfähig und dauerhaft auszubilden. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt einen Modularisierungsansatz auf Basis der Segmentbauweise vor und beschreibt den Entwurf, die konstruktive Durchbildung und die Segmentherstellung einer 8,10 m langen Versuchsbrücke. Um besonders materialeffiziente und dünnwandige Betonquerschnitte ausbilden zu können und das Risiko der Bewehrungskorrosion zu vermeiden, werden hierbei nichtmetallische Carbonbewehrungen verwendet. Die Formgebung der Bewehrungselemente, welche derzeit noch eine technische Hürde in der Anwendung von Carbonbeton darstellt, wurde mithilfe von neulich entwickelten Verfahren des thermischen Umformens umgesetzt. Mit der Realisierung einer modularen Segmentbrücke mit thermisch umgeformter Carbonbewehrung möchten die Autoren zur Entwicklung von technischen Lösungen für modulare Tragstrukturen beitragen sowie neuartige Anwendungsmöglichkeiten von nichtmetallischen Bewehrungen aufzeigen.
Vitamin K3 derivative inhibits androgen receptor signaling in targeting aggressive prostate cancer cells
Authors: Chinnapaka Somaiah , Bakthavachalam Velavan , Dasari Subramanyam , Kannan Jhishnuraj , Sapkota Sworaj , Kumar Raj , Munirathinam Gnanasekar
Published: September 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second critical cause of cancer‐related deaths, with African Americans dying at higher rates in the U.S. The main reasons for the higher mortality rate are ethnic differences and lack of understanding of prostate cancer biology and affordable treatments, as well as the financial burden of African American men to obtain the most effective and safe treatments. The effect of micronutrients, including Vitamin K, on various cancer cell lines has been widely studied, but the potential anticancer effect of VK3‐OCH3, an analog of vitamin K3 (Menadione), on African American prostate cancer has not been evaluated. In this study, we compared the anticancer effect of VK3‐OCH3 on targeting African American derived PCa cell lines namely RC77‐T and MDA‐PCa‐2b. Our results show that VK3‐OCH3 significantly inhibits the proliferation of both RC77‐T and MDA‐PCa‐2b African American PCa cells and promotes apoptosis, and the underlying mechanism of cell death appears to be similar in both the cell lines. Notably, VK3‐OCH3 inhibits colony‐forming ability and induces apoptosis by blocking the cell cycle at G0 in African American PCa cells. VK3‐OCH3 also acts as an anti‐metastatic agent by inhibiting the migration ability of the metastatic properties of African American PCa cells. The cell death of African American PCa cells mediated by VK3‐OCH3 is associated with the production of free radicals, such as intracellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). Interestingly, antioxidants such as N‐Acetylcysteine (NAC) and Glutathione (GSH) effectively negated the oxidative stress induced by VK3‐OCH3 on PCa cell lines derived from African American patients. Of note, VK3‐OCH3 reduces androgen receptor and prostate‐specific antigen expression in these PCa cells. Furthermore, molecular dynamic studies reiterated that VK3‐OCH3 strongly binds to the androgen receptor, suggesting that the androgen receptor is the potential molecular target of VK3‐OCH3. In addition, Western blot analysis showed that VK3‐OCH3 reduces the expression of androgen receptor, TRX2, and anti‐apoptotic signaling molecules such as Bcl‐2 and TCTP in the MDA‐PCa‐2b metastatic PCa cellular model. In conclusion, our results suggested that VK3‐OCH3 is a promising anticancer agent that could potentially reduce the mortality rates of African American PCa patients, warranting further preclinical and translational studies.
Supramolecular chemistry for the incorporation of multi‐guest molecules into two‐dimensional metal hydroxide hosts
Authors: Kim Taeho , Park Jin Kuen , Oh Jae‐Min
Published: September 2024

The incorporation of functional molecules into the interlayer space of layered double hydroxide (LDH) has been extensively studied for its role in immobilization, stabilization, manipulation of the molecular configuration, and the release from the host. To create dramatically enhanced properties and achieve unexpectedly high performances, it is necessary to incorporate multi‐guests as well as control the guest‐guest interaction. In the present review, we have summarized the multi‐guest incorporation into LDH based on the supramolecular chemistry, which provides insights into non‐covalent molecular interaction through host‐guest chemistry. Four well‐known intercalation methods in LDH, that is, coprecipitation, ion exchange, reconstruction, and exfoliation‐reassembly, are generally applied to multi‐guest intercalation. Combinative methods, in which two different intercalation approaches are combined, are also summarized. The multi‐guest incorporation, despite the difficulty involved in its synthesis design, could provide fine‐tuned and enhanced properties that are useful for a variety of applications.
Recent progress in visible light‐driven halogenation: Chlorination, bromination, and iodination
Authors: Nguyen Anh Thu , Kang Houng , Luu Truong Giang , Suh Sung‐Eun , Kim Hee‐Kwon
Published: September 2024

Halogenation is one of the most important transformations in organic synthesis. Halogenated compounds are employed in many reactions to prepare useful molecules. Many methods have been developed to introduce halogens into different compounds. Visible light‐mediated reactions are the efficient, low‐toxic, and mild‐condition methods applied for various organic chemistry transformations. Remarkably, there has been an increasing development in the application of visible light‐induced halogenation in recent years. Herein, we present a comprehensive summary of halogenation reactions including chlorination, bromination, and iodination under visible light irradiation since 2020.
Do venture capital investments contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals?
Authors: Gucciardi Gianluca
Published: September 2024

Achieving the goals of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development requires substantial investment and depends on the ability to attract private capital to complement public resources. Venture Capital (VC) investments have traditionally focused on sectors such as technology, healthcare, and clean energy, which align closely with the enhancement of sustainable development, and VC investors can accelerate progress toward sustainability by providing expertise and mentorship to startups working on sustainable solutions. This study aims to contribute to the literature on the intersection between finance and sustainability by investigating whether higher VC investments are associated with a higher level of achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using a panel data fixed effect model on a sample covering more than 100 countries, we find that a higher level of VC activity is associated with stronger SDGs' performances, with this effect being primarily driven by economic factors. We document heterogeneous effects related to the round of investments as well as the organizational form of VC investors and the industry and country of the VC‐backed companies.
Does corporate ESG, an essential factor for overcoming the climate crisis, affect sustainability: The effects of psychological distance and purchase intention
Authors: Lee Hyuck Jin
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices on consumer behavior, focusing on the role of psychological distance in shaping purchase intentions. Using construal level theory as the theoretical framework, primary survey data from South Korean consumers were analyzed. The findings reveal that social and governance activities within ESG positively influence consumers' psychological distance, enhancing purchase intentions. However, environmental activities do not show a similar effect. These results underscore the importance of clear and transparent communication regarding environmental efforts. This research expands the academic discourse on ESG by incorporating psychological distance and offers practical insights for businesses to develop effective ESG strategies tailored to consumer preferences.
Exploring the Antimicrobial Potential of Novel 1,2,4−Triazole Conjugates with Pyrazole: Synthesis, Biological Activity and In Silico Docking
Authors: Kolukula Ganesh Babu N. V. N. , Subramanyam Sibbala , Rao Allaka Tejeswara , Ahmed Mohammad Z.
Published: September 2024

In the present study, a new series of 1,2,4−triazole linked pyrazole hybrids (5 a–5 l) were synthesized from dimethyl amino pyrazole (1) in good yield by three‐step reaction. The chemical structures of the resulted compounds were thoroughly elucidated using spectral analyses such as IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, mass spectra and elemental analysis. The target compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activity against the various standard pathogenic Gram−(−ve) (E. coli, P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, A. baumannii), and Gram−(+ve) (S. aureus, S. faecalis) microorganisms. According to the results obtained, in particular, compounds 5 b, 5 f, 5 h and 5 j was effective at inhibiting the antibacterial growth of all the bacteria's, having MIC values ranging 0.983–14.862 mg/mL and compared to moxifloxacin (1.391–22.01 mg mL−1). The most active compounds were chosen to interact with the DNA gyrase and topoisomerase‐IV targets via molecular docking. These selected ligands interacted with 2XCO, 1S16 targets and docked into the active site of amino acids Ala‐269, Gly‐413, Asn‐405, Ser‐1182, Thr‐1185, His‐1186, His‐1186, Lys‐1189, and Trp‐1213. Computational studies were carried out to design the precursor compounds to support the experimental part of the study. The pharmacokinetic properties, stability, and drug‐likeness parameters of all target molecules were estimated using SwissADME and PkCSM protocols. The current study used in silico approaches combining e‐pharmacophore modeling and structure‐based molecular docking of targets to identify antimicrobial agents.