bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Mangrove Cover Changes on the Land Surface Temperature in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Jonah Useh Uwem , J. I. Magaji, , S.Y Kpalo , U. S. Lay, , Uwem Useh, Mercy
Published: February 2025

Nigeria has the third largest mangrove forest in the world, the largest in Africa with approximately 80% of its mangrove vegetation located within the Niger Delta region of the Country. Unfortunately, rapid urbanization has resulted in widespread mangrove loss which could lead to increased surface land temperatures (LST) culminating in the threat to the integrity of this ecosystem.
Aim: The study assessed the impacts of mangrove cover changes on climate change in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria with the aim of articulating sustainable mangrove management practices.
Place and Duration of Study: Mangrove covers from 1987 to 2022 in the study area which includes nine states of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, Rivers, and Abia, and encompasses significant mangrove forests.
Methodology: The methodology adopted a remote sensing-based research design utilizing satellite imagery to analyze temporal changes in mangrove cover and evaluated their association with climate variables such as CO2 emissions and LST of the study area. Each satellite image geo-referenced in ArcGIS 10.8 & LULC changes calculated using geometry module of ArcGIS 10.8. LST was derived from the geometrically corrected Landsat 5 and Landsat 8.
Results: The data obtained revealed mangrove reduction from 12,991 km2 in 1987 to 9,089km2 in 2022 resulting in the increased LST from 26.01°C to 28.07°C respectively within the pace of thirty-five (35) years. These results illustrate a clear link between mangrove cover change and variation in the LST, highlighting the critical role mangroves play in regulating climate change.
Conclusion: There are significant losses in mangrove cover have been closely associated with increased LST, thus reflecting the vital role these ecosystems play in carbon sequestration which underscores the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems to mitigate local and global climate impacts.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions during Windrow Composting and Open-Air Dumping of Pig Manure with Added Wood Shavings
Authors: Tiku David T. , Yengong Fabrice L. , Ngwabie Ngwa M. , Manga Veronica E.
Published: February 2025

Aims: To evaluate GHG emissions from two common manure management practices in Cameroon; windrow composting and Open-air dumping with and without the addition of wood shavings.
Study design: The research employed a controlled experimental design with a comparative approach.
Place and Duration of Study: Waste-to-resource project site and project laboratory of the Department of Environmental Science of the University of Buea, Cameroon between February and March 2023.
Methodology: Fresh pig manure was treated in four configurations: 100% manure subjected to windrow composting, 100% manure subjected to open-air dumping, 90:10% manure: wood shavings subjected to windrow composting, and 90: 10% manure: wood shavings subjected to open-air dumping. Gas samples were collected every next morning at 10:00 AM over a period of 40 days using the static flux chamber method, and analyzed for CH₄, N₂O, and CO₂ emissions using gas chromatography.
Results: Results showed that adding wood shavings significantly reduced CH₄ and N₂O emissions across both composting and open-air dumping systems. CH₄ emissions were highest in stockpiled 100% manure (2.152 ± 1.741 mg CH₄ m² min⁻¹) and lowest in composted manure with wood shavings (0.085 ± 0.179 mg CH₄ m² min⁻¹). N₂O emissions followed a similar trend, with the highest emissions (131.3 ± 90.4 mg N₂O m² min⁻¹) recorded in stockpiled 100% manure, compared to the lowest (35.25 ± 43.50 mg N₂O m² min⁻¹) in stockpiled manure with wood shavings. CO₂ emissions were higher in treatments with wood shavings, particularly in composting (159.2 ± 70.8 mg CO₂ m² min⁻¹). Further statistical analyses confirmed significant differences in GHG emissions among the different treatments, with windrow composting consistently outperforming Open-air dumping in reducing CH₄ and N₂O emissions.
Conclusion: The study concluded that wood shavings addition and windrow composting practices significantly reduced GHG emissions from pig manure management in tropical settings.
Comparative Study of Advance Lines Along with their Single Cross Hybrids for Yield and Other Horticultural Traits in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]
Authors: Maurya Brijesh Kumar , Singh D. P. , Karmakar P. , Kumar Rajeev , Maurya C. L. , Rajiv  , Singh P. K. , Biswas S. K. , Nirankar  , Goyal Ankit Kumar
Published: February 2025

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2022-23 at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, Varanasi, to evaluate the performance of ten parental lines of okra and their forty-five hybrids. The experiment was arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications for sixteen horticultural traits including earliness, plant architecture, fruit characteristics, yield contributing traits and Enation Leaf Curl Virus (ELCV) incidence. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among parental lines and hybrids for all traits except for the number of effective branches and fruit length. Among the parents, VRO-220 and VRO-219 exhibited the earliest flowering and first harvest, while VRO-200 demonstrated the highest fruit yield per plant. Hybrids such as VRO-220×VRO-219 and VRO-216×VRO-200 showed superior performance in terms of earliness, yield, and fruit traits. Plant architectural traits, such as internodal length and plant height, varied significantly, with VRO-106 exhibiting the tallest plants and the maximum number of effective branches. Fruit traits showed substantial variability, with VRO-200 producing the highest number of fruits per plant and fruit weight. For ELCV resistance, VRO-216 exhibited the lowest disease incidence, and several hybrids showed promising resistance to the virus. The results suggest that hybridization can significantly enhance desirable traits such as earliness, yield, and disease resistance in okra, thereby improving its productivity and adaptability in field conditions.
Use of Interpositional Arthroplasty with Temporal Muscle Flap in a Patient with Post-traumatic Bilateral TMJ Ankylosis
Authors: Rodrigues Raphaela Zanin , Bachesk Andressa Bolognesi , Hara Giovana Felipe , Melo Harysson Costa , Pavan Ângelo José
Published: February 2025

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a severe condition that leads to joint destruction, resulting in mandibular hypomobility and impairments in speech, mastication, and oral hygiene. The most common causes of TMJ ankylosis include local infections and facial trauma. Post-trauma physiotherapy plays a crucial role in preventing its occurrence.
This article presents the case of a patient who sustained facial trauma and subsequently developed bilateral TMJ ankylosis. The treatment involved interpositional arthroplasty using a temporal muscle flap and bilateral coronoidectomy. These techniques successfully restored mouth opening, reestablished TMJ function, and improved the patient’s quality of life.
A Quantitative Analysis of Macroeconomic Indicators and GDP Growth in India
Authors: P Arpitha , G Manoj Kumar , Reddy B S , Joshi Amrutha T
Published: February 2025

India is significantly influenced by macroeconomic and sectoral factors, particularly agriculture. The study examines the impact of per capita income, agricultural exports, inflation, exchange rate and agricultural GDP share on India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 1990 to 2024. Secondary data is used for the present study. The dependent variable in the study is GDP component from sources such as India stat database, the World Bank and FAO, a multiple linear regression model was employed to quantify these relationships. The study addresses the problem of agriculture’s declining share in GDP despite its critical role in employment and rural livelihoods. While increasing per capita income and agricultural exports are expected to drive economic expansion, macroeconomic challenges like inflation and currency fluctuations may hinder growth. The regression results show a strong model fit indicating that 96 per cent of GDP variations are explained by the selected variables. Per capita income and agricultural GDP emerged as the strongest contributors to economic growth, while inflation negatively impacted GDP. The exchange rate significantly influenced GDP, reinforcing the importance of stable foreign exchange policies. However, agricultural exports had a weaker influence, highlighting the need for improved trade integration. The findings suggest that stabilizing inflation, enhancing agricultural productivity, and improving export competitiveness are crucial for sustaining long-term economic growth. The study provides empirical evidence supporting the need for targeted agricultural and macroeconomic policies, emphasizing the importance of investments in agri-tech, infrastructure, and global market access to ensure India’s continued economic resilience.
Constraints Faced by Dairy Farmers of Andhra Pradesh in Using ICT Tools
Authors: Bharath Chinni Venkata Sai , Raghuprasad K. P. , Mounika B. , Battu Prem Kiran , G. N Gunashree. , H. N Sampreetha.
Published: February 2025

The application of ICTs has become a vital component in extension, striving to improve agriculture and related fields by providing timely and accurate information. ICT tools have revolutionized information sharing with farmers, yet dairy farmers face challenges in accessing information through these tools. Understanding and addressing these challenges is vital to develop inclusive environment for dairy farmers to boost their farm productivity and sustainability. Thus, a research was conducted in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh to determine various constraints the dairy farmers experience when utilizing ICT tools. The study employed an ex-post facto type research design and data was collected from 120 dairy farmers in 6 villages of Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh. Garrett ranking methodology was adopted to analyse the constraints faced by farmers in using ICT tools. The findings showed that primary constraint faced was lack of sufficient skills in using ICT tools, with a Garrett mean score of 62.21 then poor network connection, high cost and maintenance of ICT tools with 58.98 and 58.59 respectively. The suggestions were also provided by respondents for effective usage of ICT tools, which were analyzed and ranked based on frequency and percentage.  The suggestions included providing trainings on using ICT tools, enhanced network connection and ICT tools developed must be simple, easy to operate and user friendly with 79.17 %, 55.80% and 54.17% respectively.
Gender-Affirming Hormone Treatment and Metabolic Syndrome Among Transgender Veterans
Authors: Hashemi Leila , Marijic Buljubasic Andriana , Budoff Matthew J. , Copeland Laurel A. , Jackson Nicholas J. , Jasuja Guneet K. , Gornbein Jeffery , Reue Karen
Published: July 2024

Importance

Gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) is a common therapy for transgender individuals to reduce gender dysphoria and improve quality of life. Clarifying the long-term effects of GAHT remains a priority in transgender health research.

Objective

To explore whether sex hormones (estradiol and testosterone) are associated with the development of metabolic syndrome in transgender veterans compared with cisgender veterans.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, longitudinal cohort study used International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision diagnosis codes for gender dysphoria from the Veterans Health Administration national database to identify transfeminine and transmasculine veterans receiving documented feminizing (estradiol) or masculinizing (testosterone) treatment from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2019, and for whom the GAHT initiation date and metabolic syndrome component–related data were available. Transgender veterans were matched to cisgender referents.

Exposure

Gender-affirming hormone treatment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Metabolic syndrome z-scores were calculated based on body mass index, systolic blood pressure, and levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood glucose. Changes in mean z-scores were compared among the transgender and cisgender groups before and after the index date (corresponding to GAHT initiation) using a repeated-measures analysis of variance model.

Results

The cohort included 1290 participants: 645 transgender (494 [38.3%] transfeminine, 151 [11.7%] transmasculine) and 645 cisgender (280 [21.7%] female, 365 [28.3%] male). Mean (SD) age at the index date was 41.3 (13.2) years. Metabolic syndrome z-scores changed significantly over time and differed significantly across groups. Overall, transmasculine veterans had the greatest percentage increase in mean (SEM) z-scores after vs before the index date (298.0% [57.0%]; P < .001), followed by cisgender females (108.3% [27.5%]; P < .001), cisgender males (49.3% [27.5%]; P = .02), and transfeminine persons (3.0% [10.7%]; P = .77).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, in both cisgender and transgender veterans, estradiol was associated with reduced metabolic syndrome risk, whereas testosterone was associated with increased risk. However, transmasculine individuals had the greatest risk and transfeminine individuals had the lowest risk of metabolic syndrome associated with these hormones. This is relevant for the management of metabolic syndrome risk factors in cisgender and transgender individuals and to potentially predict the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, systolic hypertension, insulin resistance, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
DRD4 gene polymorphism and impulse control disorder induced by dopamine agonists in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Torres Viviana , Pérez‐Montesino Jesica , Fernández‐Santiago Rubén , Fernández Manel , Camara Ana , Compta Yaroslau , Martí María‐José , Guerra Beltran Àlex , Rios José , Valldeoriola Francesc , Ezquerra Mario
Published: July 2024

Impulse control disorders and their consequences display variability among individuals, indicating potential involvement of environmental and genetic factors. In this retrospective study, we analyzed a cohort of Parkinson's disease patients treated with dopamine agonists and investigated the influence of the dopamine D4 receptor gene polymorphism, DRD4 7R+, which is linked to psychiatric disorders, impulsive traits, and addictive behaviors. We found that DRD4 7R+ is a significant genetic risk factor associated with the severity of ICD.
Phage Immunoprecipitation‐Sequencing Reveals CDHR5 Autoantibodies in Select Patients With Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Upadhyay Vaibhav , Yoon Young me , Vazquez Sara E. , Velez Tania E. , Jones Kirk D. , Lee Cathryn T. , Law Christopher S. , Wolters Paul J. , Lee Seoyeon , Yang Monica M. , Farrand Erica , Noth Imre , Strek Mary E. , Anderson Mark S. , DeRisi Joseph L. , Sperling Anne I. , Shum Anthony K.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders that can develop in patients with connective tissue diseases. Establishing autoimmunity in ILD impacts prognosis and treatment. Patients with ILD are screened for autoimmunity by measuring antinuclear autoantibodies, rheumatoid factors, and other nonspecific tests. However, this approach may miss autoimmunity that manifests as autoantibodies to tissue antigens not previously defined in ILD.

Methods

We use Phage Immunoprecipitation‐Sequencing (PhIP‐Seq) to conduct an autoantibody discovery screen of patients with ILD and controls. We screened for novel autoantigen candidates using PhIP‐Seq. We next developed a radio‐labeled binding assay and validated the leading candidate in 398 patients with ILD recruited from two academic medical centers and 138 blood bank individuals that formed our reference cohort.

Results

PhIP‐Seq identified 17 novel autoreactive targets, and machine learning classifiers derived from these targets discriminated ILD serum from controls. Among the 17 candidates, we validated CDHR5 and found CDHR5 autoantibodies in patients with rheumatologic disorders and importantly, patients not previously diagnosed with autoimmunity. Using survival and transplant free–survival data available from one of the two centers, patients with CDHR5 autoantibodies showed worse survival compared with other patients with connective tissue disease ILD.

Conclusion

We used PhIP‐Seq to define a novel CDHR5 autoantibody in a subset of select patients with ILD. Our data complement a recent study showing polymorphisms in the CDHR5‐IRF7 gene locus strongly associated with titer of anticentromere antibodies in systemic sclerosis, creating a growing body of evidence suggesting a link between CDHR5 and autoimmunity.
Disturbance observer based adaptive heading control for unmanned surface vehicle with event‐triggered and signal quantization
Authors: Ma Yifan , Li Wei , Ning Jun , Liu Lu
Published: July 2024

This article delves into the adaptive heading tracking control of unmanned surface vehicle (USV) by incorporating an event‐triggered mechanism and signal quantization. The primary objective is to save communication resources while alleviating the burden of signal transmission. To address time‐varying external perturbations inherent in the control system, a disturbance observer is employed for precise estimation. Additionally, a linear model is introduced to delineate the procedure of quantization. By furnishing the controller with purpose‐designed quantized control input, the adaptive tracking control system can effectively track desired input without requiring any prior knowledge of the quantized parameters. The article substantiates its claims by demonstrating the system's stability in the absence of quantization considerations and the bounded nature of quantization errors through a series of presented lemmas. Further, the stability of the USV heading control system, integrated with an event‐triggered mechanism and signal quantization, is proofed in accordance with Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, the proposed strategy's efficacy and practical applicability are validated through experimental simulations.
Copper Foil Substrate Enables Planar Indium Plating for Ultrahigh‐Efficiency and Long‐Lifespan Aqueous Trivalent Metal Batteries
Authors: Chang Songyang , Lu Linguo , Ullah Irfan , Hou Wentao , Florez Gomez Jose Fernando , Conde‐Delmoral Amanda , Font Marin Clara M. , Morell Gerardo , Chen Zhongfang , Wu Xianyong
Published: July 2024

Aqueous trivalent metal batteries represent a compelling candidate for energy storage due to the intriguing three‐electron transfer reaction and the distinct properties of trivalent cations. However, little research progress has been achieved with trivalent batteries due to the inappropriate redox potentials and drastic ion hydrolysis side reactions. Herein, the appealing yet underrepresented trivalent indium is selected as an advanced metal choice and the crucial effect of substrate on its plating mechanism is revealed. When copper foil is used, an indiophilic indium‐copper alloy interface can be formed in situ upon plating, exhibiting favorable binding energies and low diffusion energy barriers for indium atoms. Consequently, a planar, smooth, and dense indium metal layer is uniformly deposited on the copper substrate, leading to outstanding plating efficiency (99.8–99.9%) and an exceedingly long lifespan (6.4–7.4 months). The plated indium anode is further paired with a high‐mass‐loading Prussian blue cathode (2 mAh cm−2), and the full cell (negative/positive electrode capacity, N/P = 2.5) delivers an excellent cycling life of 1000 cycles with 72% retention. This work represents a significant advancement in the development of high‐performance trivalent metal batteries.
Dynamically Controllable Terahertz Electromagnetic Interference Shielding by Small Polaron Responses in Dirac Semimetal PdTe2 Thin Films
Authors: Guo Yingyu , Chen Zhongqiang , Jin Zuanming , Wang Xuefeng , Zhang Chao , Balakin Alexey V. , Shkurinov Alexander P. , Peng Yan , Zhu Yiming , Zhuang Songlin
Published: July 2024

Terahertz (THz) electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials is crucial for ensuring THz electromagnetic protection and information confidentiality technology. Here, it is demonstrated that high electrical conductivity and strong absorption of THz electromagnetic radiation by type‐II Dirac semimetal PdTe2 film make it a promising material for EMI shielding. Compared to MXene film, a commonly used metallic 2D material, the PdTe2 film demonstrates a remarkable 40.36% increase in average EMI shielding efficiency per unit thickness within a broadband THz frequency range. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that a photoinduced long life‐time THz transparency in Dirac semimetal PdTe2 films is attributed to the formation of small polarons due to the strong electron‐phonon coupling. A 15 nm‐thick PdTe2 film exhibits a photoinduced change of EMI SE of 1.1 dB, a value exceeding three times that measured on MXene film with a similar pump fluence. This work provides insights into the fundamental photocarrier properties in type‐II Dirac semimetals that are essential for designing advanced THz optoelectronic devices.
Dual‐Network Assembled Nanopaper towards Extremely Harsh Conditions
Authors: Yang Bin , Yuan Baolong , Xu Ping , Zhang Meiyun
Published: July 2024

Aramid nanofibers (ANFs) exhibit desirable lightweight and excellent properties, while their strength has to be sacrificed to further improve their electrical insulation and fire resistance so as to meet the special demands of extreme environments. Herein, Zylon nanofibers (ZNFs) with analogous structure compatibility but superior performance are employed to construct an assembled dual‐network structure to improve the overall properties of ANFs. A facile in situ structure restoration (ISSR) strategy is proposed to achieve ZNF aqueous dispersion for the first time by deprotonation of ZNFs, which significantly avoids the corrosive acid system and facilitates the papermaking process. The composite ANF@ZNF nanopaper exhibits incredible tensile strength (233 MPa) and toughness (14.7 MJ m−3), increased by 108% and 584% compared with pure ANF nanopaper due to the dense entangled dual‐network and tremendous hydrogen bonds. Moreover, it presents superior breakdown strength of ≈128 kV mm−1, which is 6 times higher than that of commercial Nomex T410 insulation paper with a thickness of 50 µm. Besides, it exhibits surprising flame resistance (endure 1000 °C burning) ascribed to the excellent thermostability of ZNFs. This work provides promising possibilities for expanding the applications of aramid‐based composites for advanced electrical insulation and thermal protection in extremely harsh conditions.
Ultralow‐Temperature (≤ −80 °C) Proton Pseudocapacitor with High Power‐Energy Density Enabled by Tailored Proton‐Rich Electrolyte and Electrode
Authors: Xu Tiezhu , Wang Di , Zhang Miaoran , Yao Tengyu , Cui Zhaodi , Shen Laifa
Published: July 2024

Proton‐based energy storage systems provide a more sustainable alternative for large‐scale energy storage applications. However, conventional proton batteries/pseudocapacitors suffer from severe capacity loss because of reduced ionic conductivity and water‐to‐ice conversion at ultralow temperatures. Here, anti‐freezing proton‐rich electrolytes with ultralow freezing point (below −80 °C) and high conductivity (7.89 mS cm−1 at −80 °C) are developed, combined with open framework‐structured Prussian blue analogous (VHCF) electrodes with proton‐rich binding sites, to construct a promising proton pseudocapacitor at ultralow temperatures. Hydrogen bond‐induced solvated structures and physicochemical properties are clarified by comprehensive characterization techniques and computational simulations. Temperature‐dependent structure and valence changes for VHCF electrodes at low temperatures are revealed, where the multi‐electron transfer reaction is affected by temperature to limit the capacity output. The proton pseudocapacitor (VHCF//6 m H2SO4//MoO3‐x) achieves excellent electrochemical performance in the temperature range from −80 to 25 °C, and delivers a voltage window of 0 to 2.8 V and a high energy density of 74.9 Wh kg−1 at −80 °C. This proton‐rich electrolyte‐electrode design principle suggests an effective strategy enabling next‐generation energy technology under extreme conditions.
Remarkably Boosting Piezocatalytic Performance of Sr0.5Ba0.5Nb2O6 Piezoceramics via Size Optimization and Oxygen Vacancy Engineering
Authors: Dai Jian , Fan Zhenhao , Long Yangke , Yue Wenfeng , Huang Fu , Jiao Yitao , Deng Yuqun , Chang Yunfei , Wang Dawei
Published: July 2024

Piezocatalysis is capable of harnessing mechanical energy for environmental remediation, which is regarded as a green and promising technology to be exploited. Piezoceramics are struggling to be used as highly efficient piezocatalysts due to their grain size reaching tens of micrometers usually. Herein, a feasible and straightforward method is proposed to turn piezoceramic powders into highly efficient piezocatalysts by integrating size optimization and oxygen vacancy modulation. This strategy is validated by treating lead‐free Sr0.5Ba0.5Nb2O6 (SBN) piezoceramic powders with high‐energy ball‐milling (hBM). The rate constant k value of 46.95 × 10−3 min−1 for rhodamine B (RhB) piezocatalytic degradation of SBN‐hBM‐12h is almost 18 times higher than that of pristine SBN. Besides, the SBN‐hBM‐12 h catalyst performed superior antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli. The enhanced piezocatalytic efficiency is attributed to the introduced abundant oxygen vacancies absorbing and activating O2 into reactive oxygen species. Well‐modulated oxygen vacancy concentration can effectively accelerate the generation and separation of free carriers. However, the excess oxygen vacancies in SBN render the weakened piezoresponse thus suppressing the piezocatalytic activity. This study elucidates the critical role of oxygen vacancies in piezocatalysis and provides insights into the development of efficient piezocatalysts.
The Role of Locally Excited State and Charge Transfer State in Organic Room Temperature Phosphorescence and Corresponding Applications
Authors: Zhao Yao , Zhang Yawen , Yang Jie , Chen Yi , Pu Guqiang , Wang Yunsheng , Li Dan , Fan Wei , Fang Manman , Wu Jishan , Li Zhen
Published: July 2024

Donor–acceptor (D–A) structure with charge transfer (CT) effect is widely utilized in the construction of organic luminescent materials. The adjustment of their CT effect and related luminescent property usually relies on the changes of molecular structure with different D or A moieties, which will lead to some uncertainties in structure‐property relationship. With the aim to explore the clear inherent luminescent mechanism for D–A molecule with CT effect, it is ideal that the regulation of intramolecular charge transfer in one same D–A molecule can be realized. Accordingly, three D–A type organic phosphorescence luminogens are designed and synthesized. Once being doped into different polymer matrixes, disparate charge transfer effects and related room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) properties can be achieved for a single molecule. Subsequent experiments confirm that different distributions of molecules with locally excited (LE) state and CT state are mainly responsible for their distinct RTP behaviors, exhibiting the well‐clarified structure‐property relationship of D–A type phosphorescence luminogens. Furthermore, the transition from CT to LE state can even be realized through chemical reaction, leading to the activated RTP effect for practical applications.
Engineering Single Component Luminogens to Multicomponent Charge‐transfer Co‐crystal Substrate as New Frontiers for Sensitive SERS Detection
Authors: Barman Debika , Barman Debasish , Bhattacharyya Kalishankar , Iyer Parameswar Krishnan
Published: July 2024

Organic charge‐transfer (CT) co‐crystals have demonstrated remarkable physical properties and have found applications in numerous fields. Yet their utility as a Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) substrate, a powerful and versatile analytical tool, has never been explored. Herein, three twisted molecular donors are synthesized, that exhibit well‐controlled switchable optical properties including aggregation‐induced emission (AIE), mechanochromic luminescence (MCL), and color‐specific polymorphism. Rapid production of charge‐transfer co‐crystals is also established with a π‐acceptor TCNQ and utilized conceptually as a SERS substrate for methylene blue (MB) detection, exhibiting a very high enhancement factor of 109 and limit of detection of 10−13 m, respectively, due to the presence of low‐lying excited state, exhibit an 80% CT character, originating from the HOMO of the co‐crystal and interacting with the LUMO of the MB molecule. This approach using CT co‐crystals as a SERS substrate presents newer frontiers that require minuscule levels of rapid detection and impact allied areas, helping us understand and optimize the fascinating properties of such multicomponent materials for newer technologies.
Targeting Nuclear Receptor Coactivator SRC‐1 Prevents Colorectal Cancer Immune Escape by Reducing Transcription and Protein Stability of PD‐L1
Authors: Hong Yilin , Chen Qiang , Wang Zinan , Zhang Yong , Li Bei , Guo Hanshi , Huang Chuanzhong , Kong Xu , Mo Pingli , Xiao Nengming , Xu Jianming , Ye Yunbin , Yu Chundong
Published: July 2024

Programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) is overexpressed in multiple cancers and critical for their immune escape. It has previously shown that the nuclear coactivator SRC‐1 promoted colorectal cancer (CRC) progression by enhancing CRC cell viability, yet its role in CRC immune escape is unclear. Here, we demonstrate that SRC‐1 is positively correlated with PD‐L1 in human CRC specimens. SRC‐1 deficiency significantly inhibits PD‐L1 expression in CRC cells and retards murine CRC growth in subcutaneous grafts by enhancing CRC immune escape via increasing tumor infiltration of CD8+ T cells. Genetic ablation of SRC‐1 in mice also decreases PD‐L1 expression in AOM/DSS‐induced murine CRC. These results suggest that tumor‐derived SRC‐1 promotes CRC immune escape by enhancing PD‐L1 expression. Mechanistically, SRC‐1 activated JAK‐STAT signaling by inhibiting SOCS1 expression and coactivated STAT3 and IRF1 to enhance PD‐L1 transcription as well as stabilized PD‐L1 protein by inhibiting proteasome‐dependent degradation mediated by speckle type POZ protein (SPOP). Pharmacological inhibition of SRC‐1 improved the antitumor effect of PD‐L1 antibody in both subcutaneous graft and AOM/DSS‐induced murine CRC models. Taken together, these findings highlight a crucial role of SRC‐1 in regulating PD‐L1 expression and targeting SRC‐1 in combination with PD‐L1 antibody immunotherapy may be an attractive strategy for CRC treatment.
Overcoming the Tumor Collagen Barriers: A Multistage Drug Delivery Strategy for DDR1‐Mediated Resistant Colorectal Cancer Therapy
Authors: Cui Guangman , Deng Shaohui , Zhang Biao , Wang Manchun , Lin Zhousheng , Lan Xinyue , Li Zelong , Yao Guangyu , Yu Meng , Yan Jun
Published: July 2024

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is critical for drug resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC). The abundant collagen within the ECM significantly influences tumor progression and matrix‐mediated drug resistance (MMDR) by binding to discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1), but the specific mechanisms by which tumor cells modulate ECM via DDR1 and ultimately regulate TME remain poorly understand. Furthermore, overcoming drug resistance by modulating the tumor ECM remains a challenge in CRC treatment. In this study, a novel mechanism is elucidated by which DDR1 mediates the interactions between tumor cells and collagen, enhances collagen barriers, inhibits immune infiltration, promotes drug efflux, and leads to MMDR in CRC. To address this issue, a multistage drug delivery system carrying DDR1‐siRNA and chemotherapeutic agents is employed to disrupt collagen barriers by silencing DDR1 in tumor, enhancing chemotherapy drugs diffusion and facilitating immune infiltration. These findings not only revealed a novel role for collagen‐rich matrix mediated by DDR1 in tumor resistance, but also introduced a promising CRC treatment strategy.
Creg1 Regulates Erythroid Development via TGF‐β/Smad2‐Klf1 Axis in Zebrafish
Authors: Han Xiao , He Wenxin , Liang Dongguo , Liu Xiaohui , Zhou Jun , de Thé Hugues , Zhu Jun , Yuan Hao
Published: July 2024

Understanding the regulation of normal erythroid development will help to develop new potential therapeutic strategies for disorders of the erythroid lineage. Cellular repressor of E1A‐stimulated genes 1 (CREG1) is a glycoprotein that has been implicated in the regulation of tissue homeostasis. However, its role in erythropoiesis remains largely undefined. In this study, it is found that CREG1 expression increases progressively during erythroid differentiation. In zebrafish, creg1 mRNA is preferentially expressed within the intermediate cell mass (ICM)/peripheral blood island (PBI) region where primitive erythropoiesis occurs. Loss of creg1 leads to anemia caused by defective erythroid differentiation and excessive apoptosis of erythroid progenitors. Mechanistically, creg1 deficiency results in reduced activation of TGF‐β/Smad2 signaling pathway. Treatment with an agonist of the Smad2 pathway (IDE2) could significantly restore the defective erythroid development in creg1−/− mutants. Further, Klf1, identified as a key target gene downstream of the TGF‐β/Smad2 signaling pathway, is involved in creg1 deficiency‐induced aberrant erythropoiesis. Thus, this study reveals a previously unrecognized role for Creg1 as a critical regulator of erythropoiesis, mediated at least in part by the TGF‐β/Smad2‐Klf1 axis. This finding may contribute to the understanding of normal erythropoiesis and the pathogenesis of erythroid disorders.
Microwave‐Assisted Efficient Intercalation for Fast Fabrication of High‐Quality and Large‐Size Single‐Layer Ti3C2Tx Nanosheets
Authors: Zhong Yitian , Zhang Qixi , Lan Shuling , Feng Haosheng , Zhao Yanxi , Li Qin , Li Xianghong , Huang Tao
Published: July 2024

A novel microwave‐assisted intercalation (MAI) strategy is proposed for fast and efficient intercalation of layered MXene to prepare large‐size single‐layer MXene. After LiF‐HCl etching of Ti3AlC2, the as‐prepared multi‐layer Ti3C2Tx (M‐T) are intercalated with Li3AlF6 as an intercalator and ethylene glycol (EG) as a solvent under microwave irradiation for 5 min. Furthermore, the dispersed high‐quality large‐sized single‐layer Ti3C2Tx (S‐T) nanosheets with a thickness of 1.66 nm and a large lateral size over 20 µm are achieved with a yield of over 60% after a further ultrasonic delamination followed by electrostatic precipitation, acid washing, and calcination. In addition, Pd/S‐T composite catalyst, which is constructed with Pd nanoparticles supported on the as‐prepared S‐T nanosheets, exhibits an excellent performance for rapid and efficient selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes with H2 under a mild condition. At room temperature, full conversion of nitrobenzene and 100% aniline selectivity are achieved over Pd/S‐T catalyst in 20 min with 0.5 MPa of H2 pressure. This work provides a novel method for facile, fast, and large‐scale preparation of single‐layer MXene and develops a new approach for constructing efficient nanocatalytic systems.
Flexible IGZO TFT Technology for Shift Register Drivers
Authors: Bao Bin , Karnaushenko Dmitriy D. , Xu Jiawang , Wang Shouguo , Bandari Vineeth Kumar , Schmidt Oliver G. , Karnaushenko Daniil
Published: July 2024

Active sensing matrices play a pivotal role in various electronic devices, including optical and X‐ray imaging arrays, electronic skins, and artificial tactile arrays, among others. These matrices function through a thin‐film active switching mechanism, allowing for the scanning of rows and columns by external circuitry to read the sensory signals of individual pixels. Recently, indium–gallium‐zinc oxide thin‐film transistors (IGZO TFTs) have emerged as highly promising technology in the realm of flexible electronics. They enable the large‐scale integration of functional circuits on flexible substrates. Shift registers are commonly employed as peripheral scanning circuits to sequentially address active‐matrix arrays. To enhance system compactness and minimize external electrical connections, it is imperative to seamlessly integrate shift registers within the active matrices. However, contemporary flexible IGZO‐based shift registers suffer from high operating voltages and low frequencies, which constrain their applicability in high‐performance flexible sensors and displays. In response to this challenge, a breakthrough is presented in the form of low‐voltage, high‐frequency bootstrap shift registers implemented with flexible IGZO technology. The approach involves utilizing SU‐8 buffered polyimide (PI) polymer foils as substrates. These foils boast an exceptional level of surface smoothness, significantly increasing the yield and performance of electronic components, including vias, IGZO TFTs, and capacitors used in the shift register circuitry. Additionally, HfO2/Al2O3/HfO2 sandwich structures are employed as high‐k dielectric layers to reduce the operational voltage. Thanks to the innovative circuit design and optimized fabrication methods, the 16‐stage shift register can operate at just 1.8 V with a frequency of 15 kHz. This breakthrough promises to have a profound impact on a wide range of applications for driving flexible active‐matrix electronic systems.
Multifunctional MXene Nanosheets and Their Applications in Antibacterial Therapy
Authors: Lai Xuyang , Tang Yuting , Dong Yuanhao , Luo Yankun , Yang Xiaodong , Peng Qiang
Published: July 2024

Bacterial infections are a great threat to human health, and the irrational use of antibiotics has largely compromised the efficacy of antibiotic therapy due to the emergence of drug‐resistant pathogens. It is known that synthesizing new antibiotics is difficult and time‐consuming. In this case, developing antibiotics‐independent antibacterial approaches is of great importance and significance. In the past decade, various functional nanomaterials have shown great potentials in the treatment of bacterial infections. Among these nanomaterials, transition metal carbides or nitrides, namely MXene, have attracted much attention. As the novel 2D nanosheets, MXene can serve either as a direct antibacterial agent due to its intrinsic antibacterial activity and photothermal effect, or as an efficient carrier to load photosensitizers and photocatalysts for photodynamic and photocatalytic therapy. In recent few years, the number of literatures regarding MXene‐based antibacterial therapy has increased rapidly. Thus, it is the time to systematically summarize the applications of MXene in the treatment of bacteria, especially those with drug resistance. Herein, it is aimed to summarize the preparation methods for MXene and provide a comprehensive understanding of its properties and applications in antibacterial therapy. Also, its use for bacterial detection and the challenges for practical use are discussed.
Identification of Kibdelomycin and Related Biosynthetic Gene Clusters and Characterization of the C‐Branching of Amycolose
Authors: Krug Leonhard , Bjarnesen Daniela , Lanza Lucrezia , Lindemann Lucia , Fessner Nico D. , Müller Michael
Published: July 2024

Many bacterial natural products contain C‐branched sugars, including components from the outer cell wall or antibiotically active metabolites. The enzymatic C‐branching of keto sugars leading to longer side chains (≥C2) is catalyzed by thiamine diphosphate (ThDP)‐dependent enzymes. Chiral tertiary α‐hydroxy ketones are formed in this process. The ThDP‐dependent enzymes that catalyze C‐branching reactions belong to one of three enzymatic superfamilies: decarboxylases, transketolases, and α‐ketoacid dehydrogenases 2, but branching of keto sugars has only been demonstrated for decarboxylases. In this study, we showed that an α‐ketoacid dehydrogenase is responsible for C‐branching of the deoxyketo sugar amycolose in the biosynthesis of kibdelomycin in Kibdelosporangium sp. MA7385. In addition, we characterized an amino transferase in the same biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) that accepts a sterically demanding tertiary α‐hydroxy ketone in a downstream reaction. Subsequently, we identified approximately 400 similar BGCs in silico, suggesting that there is a large diversity of possible ThDP‐dependent enzymes catalyzing the C‐branching of keto sugars and subsequent modifications.
Anionic Chemistry Modulation Enabled Environmental Self‐Charging Aqueous Zinc Batteries: The Case of Carbonate Ions
Authors: Qu Guangmeng , Wang Lu , Zhao Yongzheng , Wang Dedong , Zhang Xixi , Wang Bin , Wang Fengbo , Jing Zhongxin , Xu Xijin , Xu Liqiang , Li Hongfei
Published: July 2024

Anionic chemistry modulation represents a promising avenue to enhance the electrochemical performance and unlock versatile applications in cutting‐edge energy storage devices. Herein, we propose a methodology that involves anionic chemistry of carbonate anions to tailor the electrochemical oxidation‐reduction reactions of bismuth (Bi) electrodes, where the conversion energy barrier for Bi (0) to Bi (III) has been significantly reduced, endowing anionic full batteries with enhanced electrochemical kinetics and chemical self‐charging property. The elaborately designed batteries with an air‐switch demonstrate rapid self‐recharging capabilities, recovering over 80 % of the electrochemical full charging capacity within a remarkably short timeframe of 1 hour and achieving a cumulative self‐charging capacity of 5 Ah g−1. The aqueous self‐charging battery strategy induced by carbonate anion, as proposed in this study, holds the potential for extending to various anionic systems, including seawater‐based Cl− ion batteries. This work offers a universal framework for advancing next‐generation multi‐functional power sources.
Selenophene‐fused Perylene Diimide‐Based Cathode Interlayer Enables 19 % Efficiency Binary Organic Solar Cells via Stimulative Charge Extraction
Authors: Wang Zongtao , Wang Helin , Yang Lei , Du Mengzhen , Gao Lei , Guo Qiang , Zhou Erjun
Published: July 2024

The cathode interlayer is crucial for the development of organic solar cells (OSCs), but the research on simple and efficient interlayer materials is lagging behind. Here, a donor‐acceptor (D–A) typed selenophene‐fused perylene diimide (PDI) derivative (SePDI3) is developed as cathode interlayer material (CIM) for OSCs, and a non‐fused PDI derivative (PDI3) is used as the control CIM for comparison. Compared to PDI3, SePDI3 shows a stronger self‐doping effect and better crystallinity, resulting in better charge transport ability. Furthermore, the interaction between SePDI3 and L8‐BO can form an efficient extraction channel, leading to superior charge extraction behavior. Finally, benefitting from significantly enhanced charge transport and extraction capacity, the SePDI3‐based device displays a champion PCE of 19.04 % with an ultrahigh fill factor of 81.65 % for binary OSCs based on PM6 : L8‐BO active layer, which is one of the top efficiencies reported to date in binary OSCs based novel CIMs. Our work prescribes a facile and effective fusion strategy to develop high‐efficiency CIMs for OSCs.
Recent advances in late‐stage selective deuteration for drug development
Authors: Wang Xuan , Luo Yu‐Bo , Luo Yun‐Xia , Liu Mao‐Chen , Lu Chang‐Hai , Song Ren‐Jie
Published: July 2024

Deuteration has emerged as a significant method for investigating kinetic isotope effects in chemical reactions. In recent years, research on deuteration has revealed that this reaction often alters the pharmacokinetic or toxicological properties of drug molecules, thereby enhancing their therapeutic effect. Therefore, deuteration is considered as a potential avenue for drug research direction. Since the approval of the first deuterated drug, “deutetrabenazine,” by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017, deuteration has been applied in the development of a variety of novel drugs. Research on deuteration technology has matured with the publication of numerous deuteration strategies. This article reviews recently reported strategies for late‐stage selective deuteration, discusses the challenges associated with current deuteration strategies, and presents future prospects for the synthesis of deuterated drugs.
Ru(II)‐arene complexes with phenolic acid ligands: Synthesis, density function theoretical calculations, anti‐cancer studies, and cell death mechanisms
Authors: Sonkar Chanchal , Behera Ananyaashree , Pragti  , Sonawane Avinash , Kuznetsov Maxim F L. , Mukhopadhyay Suman
Published: July 2024

Six new complexes (1–6), [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(FA)Cl] (1), [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(PA)Cl] (2), [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(SA)Cl] (3), [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(FA)PPh3]Cl (4), [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(PA)PPh3]Cl (5), [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(SA)PPh3]Cl(6), [HFA = ferulic acid, HPA = p‐coumaric acid, HSA = sinapinic acid], were synthesized and well characterized by various spectroscopic, analytical techniques and computational studies. Amongst these six complexes, complexes 4, 5, and 6 were found to be selectively cytotoxic toward melanoma (A375) cell lines and were non‐cytotoxic toward non‐cancerous cell lines (HEK 293 T). Further investigation on the probable bio‐molecular interaction mechanisms revealed that all the complexes show strong groove binding interactions with the DNA, however, complexes 3, 4 and 3, 6 show strong interaction with BSA and HSA, respectively. Through Hoechst staining it can be elucidated that complexes 4–6 cause characteristic apoptotic nuclear changes in the cells indicating apoptosis as the cell death mechanism caused by complexes 4–6. To further confirm the cell death mechanism, protein expression analysis was done through western blotting, which showed a decrease in anti‐apoptotic protein (Bcl‐xL) expression and increased pro‐apoptotic protein (PARP) expression, which confirms the cell death by apoptosis. Using DCFDA staining, we observed that complexes 4, 5, and 6 produced more ROS in the cells, which also might be the cause of cell death by the complexes. Along with that the complexes show enhanced anti‐migratory abilities depicted through wound healing assay.