bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual-functional Cu2O/g-C3N4 heterojunctions: a high-performance SERS sensor and photocatalytic self-cleaning system for water pollution detection and remediation
Authors: Yang Shuo , Li Kaiyue , Huang Ping , Liu Keyan , Li Wenhui , Zhuo Yuquan , Yang Ziwen , Han Donglai
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a multifunctional device based on Cu2O/g-C3N4 monitoring and purification p–n heterojunctions (MPHs), seamlessly integrating surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection with photocatalytic degradation capabilities. The SERS and photocatalytic performances of the Cu2O in various morphologies, g-C3N4 nanosheets (NSs) and Cu2O/g-C3N4 MPHs with different g-C3N4 mass ratios were systematically evaluated, with a particular emphasis on the Cu2O/g-C3N4-0.2 MPH, where g-C3N4 constituted 20% of the total mass. Multiple optical and electrochemical tests revealed that the Cu2O/g-C3N4-0.2 MPH effectively enhances charge separation and reduces charge transfer resistance. The Cu2O/g-C3N4-0.2 SERS sensor exhibited a relative standard deviation (RSD) below 15% and achieved an enhancement factor (EF) of 2.43 × 106 for 4-ATP detection, demonstrating its high sensitivity and consistency. Additionally, it demonstrated a 98.3% degradation efficiency for methyl orange (MO) under visible light within 90 min. Remarkably, even after 216 days, its photocatalytic efficiency remained at 93.7%, and it retained an 84.0% efficiency after four cycles. XRD and SEM analyses before and after cycling, as well as after 216 days, confirmed the structural and morphological stability of the composite, demonstrating its cyclic and long-term stability. The excellent performance of the Cu2O/g-C3N4 MPH is attributed to its Z-type mechanism, as verified by radical trapping experiments. The evaluation of the self-cleaning performance of the Cu2O/g-C3N4-0.2 SERS sensor demonstrated that its Z-scheme structure not only provides excellent self-cleaning capability but also enables the detection of both individual and mixed pollutants, while significantly enhancing the SERS signal response through an effective charge transfer enhancement mechanism.
Survival outcomes of apalutamide as a starting treatment: impact in real-world patients with metastatic hormone sensitive prostate cancer (OASIS)
Authors: Maughan Benjamin L. , Liu Yanfang , Mundle Suneel , Wang Xiayi , Nematian-Samani Mehregan , Karsh Lawrence I.
Published: December 2024

Background

Androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (apalutamide [APA], enzalutamide [ENZ], abiraterone acetate plus prednisone [AAP]) combined with androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) are effective life-prolonging treatment options for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC). We evaluated the impact of upfront therapy for mHSPC on outcomes in real-world clinical practice in the United States.

Methods

This retrospective, observational cohort study used electronic healthcare records from the ConcertAI RWD 360 Prostate Cancer Dataset. All patients with newly diagnosed mHSPC from January 2018 to June 2023 were enrolled and followed-up until death, end of follow-up, or January 2024, whichever occurred first. Kaplan-Meier methods were used to estimate overall survival (OS), time to PSA50/PSA90 (50%/90% decline in PSA from baseline, respectively), time to undetectable PSA ( ≤ 0.2 ng/ml), and time to castration resistance (TTCR). Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) were estimated using inverse probability of treatment weighted multivariate Cox proportional models adjusted for age, comorbidities, BMI, and baseline PSA.

Results

4937 patients with mHSPC were included in the analysis: 315 received upfront APA + ADT, 1181 ENZ + ADT, 1760 AAP + ADT, 432 docetaxel (DTX) + ADT, and 1249 ADT alone. Percentages of patients reaching PSA50, PSA90, and undetectable PSA at 3 months were significantly higher for APA + ADT (70%/49%/44%, respectively) compared to ENZ + ADT (60%/38%/32%), AAP + ADT (59%/37%/33%) and ADT alone (32%/15%/32%). OS and TTCR were also significantly longer for APA + ADT (66%/77% respectively at 24 months) vs ENZ + ADT (55%/63%) AAP + ADT (59%/67%) and ADT alone (54%/57%). Starting treatment with APA + ADT was associated with a significantly reduced risk of death compared with ENZ + ADT (aHR, 95%CI) (0.66, 0.51–0.87), AAP + ADT (0.72, 0.55–0.94), and ADT alone (0.64, 0.49–0.84).

Conclusions

Numerous patients were not treated with intensified therapies despite their increased effectiveness. First-line APA + ADT in mHSPC was associated with statistically significantly longer OS, longer TTCR, and faster and deeper PSA responses than other life-prolonging treatments in real-world clinical practice in the US.
Targeting TRAF6/IRF3 axis to inhibit NF-κB-p65 nuclear translocation enhances the chemosensitivity of 5-FU and reverses the proliferation of gastric cancer
Authors: Chen Shitong , Zhang Dong , Du Yi , Shi Junbo , Gu Sikuan , Zhou Xujun , Yu Huijuan , Wang Feng , Chen Jinfei , Cui Hongjuan
Published: December 2024

Chemoresistance poses a significant clinical challenge in the treatment of gastric cancer (GC), while its underlying molecular mechanisms are still not fully understood. Post-translational protein modification and abnormal activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) are critical regulators of tumor chemoresistance. This study investigates the role of TNF receptors-associated factors 6 (TRAF6) in 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) resistant GC. Utilizing short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to suppress TRAF6 expression in 5-FU resistant GC cells across both in vivo and in vitro models, we observed a marked reduction in cell proliferation and tumor growth. Low expression of TRAF6 inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-κB-p65, which was achieved by promoting the expression of Interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3). Importantly, TRAF6, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, bound to the IRF3-Δ (SR + IAD) (1-190aa) domain, inducing Lys70 ubiquitination of IRF3 to regulate its protein stability, with ubiquitin K48 residue playing a crucial role in this process. In conclusion, our study reveals the mechanism by which the TRAF6/IRF3 axis decreases GC’s cells sensitivity to 5-FU by promoting nuclear translocation of NF-κB-p65, offering valuable insights into overcoming chemoresistance in GC.
SLC25A21 correlates with the prognosis of adult acute myeloid leukemia through inhibiting the growth of leukemia cells via downregulating CXCL8
Authors: Liu Yu , Xu Yan , Hao Qianqian , Shi Luyao , Chen Yufei , Liu Yajun , Li Mengya , Zhang Yu , Li Tao , Li Yafei , Jiang Zhongxing , Liu Yanfang , Wang Chong , Bian Zhilei , Yang Lu , Wang Shujuan
Published: December 2024

In recent years, targeting mitochondrial apoptosis has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). The SLC25 family of mitochondrial carriers plays a critical role in maintaining mitochondrial function and regulating apoptosis. However, the role of SLC25A21, an oxodicarboxylate carrier, in AML progression and its potential as a prognostic biomarker remain underexplored. This study aimed to further investigate the role, molecular mechanism, and potential clinical value of SLC25A21 in AML progression. The transcript levels of SLC25A21 in bone marrow specimens were analyzed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The correlation between SLC25A21 expression and the prognosis of AML was assessed through survival analysis. Findings revealed that SLC25A21 was downregulated in adult AML, and the low expression of SLC25A21 was correlated with worse prognosis for AML patients. Furthermore, overexpression of SLC25A21 inhibited cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, and was correlated with apoptosis through mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway. C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) was identified as a downstream target of SLC25A21. These functions of SLC25A21 could be rescued by the overexpression of CXCL8. Moreover, SLC25A21 overexpression significantly suppressed the growth of xenograft tumors. In conclusion, the low SLC25A21 expression is correlated with poor clinical outcome. The overexpression of SLC25A21 inhibited the AML cell survival and proliferation by dysregulating the expression of CXCL8. SLC25A21 might be a potential prognostic marker and a treatment target for AML.
Recent advances in modelling plasmon-assisted electron dynamics
Authors: Biancorosso Leonardo , Coccia Emanuele
Published: December 2024

Molecular nanoplasmonics exploits collective electron excitations in metal nanostructures to enhance and control properties of molecules under the influence of light. Different theoretical communities contributed to this interdisciplinary research field over the last years, with the aim to interpret and predict the physico-chemical phenomena occurring at the molecular- and nano-scale. In particular, the fast and ultrafast electronic response of the composite system, i.e. molecule+nanostructure, is a key aspect allowing one to understand experimental findings, such as the selectivity in chemical reactions or the enhancement of a specific spectroscopic signal. Time-resolved methods emerged as ideal tools to study the photoinduced plasmon-assisted electron dynamics in molecule+nanostructure systems. In this Chapter we therefore collect the recent advances in the theoretical development for time-resolved quantum-based methods to study electron dynamics in plasmonic systems. Fully quantum and multiscale approaches are reviewed, with different levels of complexity for describing the electronic degrees of freedom. As a perspective for future developments and applications, we then focus on plasmon-induced electron dynamics occurring in photocatalysis and in enhanced circular dichroism of chiral molecules close to nanostructures.
Surface-enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS)-based Sensors for Biomarkers
Authors: Kumar Chandra , Shrivastav Monika , Kashyap Vikas , Sankhla Mahipal Singh , Escrig Juan , Saxena Kapil
Published: December 2024

The detection and quantification of biomarkers using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-based sensors have gained significant attention as a technology with enormous potential to transform diagnostics and personalised medicine. The concepts, design, and uses of SERS-based sensors in the context of biomarker analysis are thoroughly explored in this chapter. By concentrating on the plasmonic and chemical enhancement processes that underlie its exceptional sensitivity and specificity, we first clarify the essential concepts of SERS. The chapter further explores the complexities of the design of SERS sensors, highlighting the different metal nanostructures and the manufacturing methods used to enhance sensing performance. The benefits and distinctive qualities of SERS are highlighted through a thorough comparison with traditional detection techniques. Despite its immense promise, the assessment notes the difficulties with repeatability and practical applicability and provides suggestions on how to overcome these obstacles.
Impedimetric Sensors for the Detection of Biomarkers
Authors: Jyoti  , Kaur Ranjeet , Rana Shweta , Kumar Vipin
Published: December 2024

Detection of biomarkers plays a pivotal role in the early identification and control of various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, diabetes, and bacterial and viral infections. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) has emerged as a promising tool for the detection of biomarkers, offering high sensitivity, quick response, and a cost-effective approach. This chapter provides an in-depth exploration of impedimetric sensors for various diseases. The chapter begins with an overview of the fundamental principles of EIS and circuit fitting techniques, followed by a detailed discussion on biomarkers for various diseases like cancer, diabetes, bacterial and viral, and cardiovascular diseases. In particular, the chapter highlights the importance of detecting biomarkers including C-reactive protein (CRP), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), BRCA1, BRCA2, MUC 1, fibrinogen, lipoprotein, homocysteine, and glycated albumin (GA) in cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes, showcasing how impedimetric sensors offer sensitive, specific and cost-effective solutions for detection. Overall, this chapter underscores the need for biomarker detection, describes the types of available impedimetric sensors, discusses the advantages of impedimetric techniques, and paves the way for future advancements in sensor technology for biomarker detection.
Light-driven Active Colloids
Authors: Xu Leilei , Guan Qiaoxin , Guan Jianguo
Published: December 2024

Active colloids, capable of autonomous motion by harnessing energy available in their surroundings, are of significance for advancing micro/nanoscale technologies. Light, as a ubiquitous external stimulus to propel the motion of colloid particles, offers unique benefits such as remote controllability, flexible tunability, and high temporal and spatial resolution. Light-driven active colloids are defined as the particles at the micro/nanoscale that can swim under light irradiation. They, broadly speaking, include micro/nanomotors composed entirely or partially of inorganic materials, microdroplets and organic matters. Light-driven active colloids are propelled primarily relying on light-initiated transformations involving but not limited to photochemical reaction, molecule isomerism, and pressure and temperature changes. In this chapter, we provide a comprehensive overview of various types of light-initiated transformations associated with propulsion mechanisms related to photochemical reactions, photoelectrochemical phenomena, photothermal effect, and photoisomerisation, as well as optical momentum transfer. Then, we relate them to typical models of light-driven active colloidal systems. Furthermore, we summarise the uniqueness of their motion in terms of motion modulation, phototaxis, and light-induced swarming, while highlighting the important progress towards bionics, cargo capture and transport, environmental remediation, and biomedical engineering.
Swimming Microorganisms as Active Colloids
Authors: Jing Guangyin , Liu Yanan
Published: December 2024

In the spirit of the main topics of active colloids in this book, microswimmers such as swimming bacteria are excellent examples of colloids that are able to perform self-propelled motion. A microorganism is, therefore, usually a living version of a colloidal particle, which generates thrust by consuming chemical energy or harnessing biological functions. These living objects exist on the microscale and have comparable kinetic energy to thermal fluctuations. Active colloids can be used as good models to capture the intrinsic features of these moving microorganism. The activity of bacteria is essentially generated by the flagellar motor, a tiny protein machine attached to the cell body and along with the long filament-like flagellum this swimming capability brings a new kind of diffusion, called active diffusion. This active diffusion combines net drift by swimming, random motion from thermal noise, and active noise due to run-and-tumble processes, which are discussed at the individual level with a model bacteria. These swimming dynamics are even more fascinating when the microswimmers are introduced into complex environments such as complex fluids from suspensions, confinements with various boundary walls. In the second part the cooperative behavior due the communication among individuals in a versatile way is discussed, the so called collective motion, which is a cutting-edge topics in swarming intelligence.
Collective Behaviours: Theory
Authors: Stark Holger
Published: December 2024

This chapter reviews some examples of simulation work to illustrate the collective behavior in active colloidal systems using established numerical methods. Thereby, it illustrates how to apply these methods. First, we consider interacting active Brownian particles and explore the properties of an active bath. Then, we add non-reciprocal orientational and social interactions to explore phenomena such as flocking and swirling, respectively. Second, we add interactions mediated by chemical fields, which are particularly relevant for active colloids driven by self-diffusiophoresis. Monodisperse systems exhibit dynamic clustering and in a bidisperse system active particles act as seeds to induce a cluster of passive particles. Finally, we show how hydrodynamic interactions between active colloids influence their collective behavior. Using hydrodynamic multipoles, we demonstrate that active particles in a parabolic potential form an active pump. Furthermore, we illustrate explicit simulations of the flow field with the mesoscopic method of multi-particle collision dynamics. The flow fields are generated by a collection of squirmer model microswimmers. Under gravity they show a variety of dynamic structure formations, while squirmer rods made from several spherical squirmers allow us to investigate the emergent collective dynamics of elongated microswimmers including the active turbulence of pusher rods.
Introduction to Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Umair M. , Loddo V. , Palmisano L. , Bellardita M.
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, one of the major academic and technological challenges we face is the search for a sustainable source of clean energy. The need to convert solar energy into a form suitable for everyday use has triggered intense research in this field. The conversion of solar energy into chemical energy with the formation of renewable fuels through green processes has significant advantages over traditional methods. In this scenario, the photocatalytic production of H2 from pure water or from aqueous solutions containing suitable sacrificial agents represents one of the most attractive methods, since it can be carried out in mild conditions (ambient pressure and temperature). In this chapter, we describe the principles of photocatalytic H2 production, the most used sacrificial agents and photocatalytic systems, together with techniques for improving photocatalyst efficiency. Even if there are numerous strategies to obtain a better efficiency of the whole process, most of them are aimed at decreasing the recombination rate of the photoproduced electrons and holes, thus increasing the numbers of these available on the surface of the photocatalyst for the reactive steps.
Transition Metal Dichalcogenide-based Electrocatalysts
Authors: Pan Yuan , Wang Minmin , Li Min
Published: December 2024

Hydrogen as a high-quality energy carrier plays an important role in the reformation of the global energy structure, with hydrogen production by electrolytic water splitting has advantages of high energy conversion efficiency and being pollution-free, and it has been considered as the best way forward for green hydrogen evolution. Precious metal platinum (Pt)-based catalysts are the most effective commercial catalysts at present, but their high cost and limited reserves hinder their large-scale application. Transition metal disulfides (TMDs) have attracted much attention in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) because of their abundant resources, variable valence state, and good conductivity. This chapter reviews the research progress on TMDS in the HER in recent years, including single metal sulfides, bimetallic sulfides, and polymetallic sulfides. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for TMD catalyst applications in the HER are considered.
Metal and Metal Oxide-based Electrocatalysts for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Pallilavalappil Sreedhanya , Jabeen Shaista , C. V. Sijla Rosely , V. P. Animasree , Manoj Narayanapillai , John Honey , Pillai Suresh C.
Published: December 2024

Recent breakthroughs in high-performance catalysts for water electrolysis show great potential for improving the efficiency of sustainable hydrogen generation. This chapter thoroughly examines cutting-edge electrocatalyst design, focusing on non-precious metals, alloys, and compounds that are effective and environmentally friendly for producing hydrogen. The research demonstrates possible approaches using surface engineering and defect manipulation, despite challenges with catalytic performance, stability, and affordability. The emphasis on metal and metal oxide compositions foresees significant advancements in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), establishing it as a pivotal catalyst for the development of renewable energy. This thorough review highlights the crucial significance of HER in propelling the development of renewable energy resources.
Brief Overview of Different Biosensors: Properties, Applications, and Their Role in Chemistry
Authors: Suma B. P. , Adarakatti Prashanth S.
Published: December 2024

Biosensors are cutting-edge instruments with the unique ability to identify biological molecules with extreme sensitivity and specificity, changing industries such as food safety, environmental monitoring, and healthcare. To transform the biological reaction into a detectable signal, their design usually combines a transducer with a biological detection element, such as enzymes, antibodies, or nucleic acids. They are extremely useful in various applications due to characteristics such as mobility, low detection limits, and rapid response. The principles of electrochemical processes, enzymatic reactions, and affinity-based interactions underpin the functioning of biosensors. Optical, electrochemical, and piezoelectric biosensors are among the types available; each has a unique set of benefits based on the intended use. Applications include pathogen detection, environmental pollution monitoring, medical diagnostics, and food safety and quality assurance. Further developments in disease diagnosis, tailored medication, and environmental monitoring are anticipated due to their adaptability and specificity, which are continuing to spur innovation.
Environmentally-friendly Liquid-phase Oxidation Reactions Using Polyoxometalate Compounds
Authors: Yamaguchi Kazuya , Suzuki Kosuke
Published: December 2024

This chapter describes the development of environmentally benign liquid-phase oxidation reactions using polyoxometalate-based molecular catalysts. The general features of polyoxometalates and the methods for designing precise active site structures based on polyoxometalates are explained first. Then, the characteristics of peroxometalates, mixed-addenda polyoxometalates, and metal-substituted polyoxometalates, as well as several selected examples of their utilization for environmentally benign liquid-phase oxidation reactions (including photocatalytic oxidation reactions) using H2O2 or O2 as an oxidant are introduced.
Hydrogenation of Organic Compounds
Authors: Kuwata Shigeki
Published: December 2024

The hydrogenation of unsaturated substrates is one of the most important reactions in organic synthesis. This chapter provides an overview of homogeneous hydrogenation of organic compounds catalyzed by coordination compounds. The hydrogenation of alkenes, including enantioselective reactions, is described first. Following that, the hydrogenation of carbonyl compounds is discussed, emphasizing the metal–ligand cooperating mechanism along with application to less electrophilic substrates, such as esters. The final part is devoted to hydrogenation catalysis with first-row transition metal complexes.
Functionalization via C–H Bond Activation
Authors: Chatani Naoto
Published: December 2024

Classic synthetic organic chemistry mainly utilizes highly reactive chemical bonds. In contrast, the development of synthetic reactions using less reactive chemical bonds has attracted much attention. This is due to the academic challenge of cleaving strong chemical bonds with low reactivity and the move toward new innovations from conventional synthetic methods. Central to this trend is the activation of C–H bonds. Many challenges must be overcome, however, to directly utilize less-reactive C–H bonds in synthetic organic chemistry. This chapter presents a brief review of the history of developing transformations in which C–H bond activation is a key step. Also, this chapter honors the tremendous efforts that have made C–H bond activation a useful synthetic organic reaction.
Photocatalytic Redox Reactions with Metal Complex Catalysts
Authors: Fukuzumi Shunichi
Published: December 2024

Metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) and ligand-to-metal charge-transfer (LMCT) states are produced upon photoexcitation of metal complexes. The MLCT and LMCT states have strong reducing and oxidizing capabilities, respectively, exhibiting photoredox catalysis in various photocatalytic redox reactions including water oxidation, CO2 reduction and H2O2 production. By combining photoredox catalysis and thermal redox catalysis, molecular functions of photosynthesis have been achieved by constructing molecular models of PSI and PSII models, which are combined to achieve the stoichiometry of photosynthesis that is the regioselective reduction of NAD+ to NADH by H2O.
Systematic study of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks for enhanced electrochemical aldehyde sensing
Authors: Mańka Martyna , Kukułka Wojciech , Wlazło Mateusz , Patroniak Violetta , Ciesielski Artur , Montes-García Verónica , Samorì Paolo
Published: December 2024

Four distinct zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) are prepared using zinc and cobalt ions with 2-aminobenzimidazole and 2-methylimidazole as linkers to explore their electrochemical properties as platforms for aldehyde detection.
Evaluation of the Arrhenius behavior of n-dodecane radical cation (RH˙+) reactivity with lanthanide ion-complexed N,N,N′,N′-tetraoctyl diglycolamide (TODGA)
Authors: Rogalski Maya H. , Dang Anh N. , Mezyk Stephen P.
Published: December 2024

First-ever Arrhenius parameter determinations for radical cation reactions with lanthanide-TODGA complexes in n-dodecane.
Metallic mesoporous oxide single crystals delivering enhanced electrocatalytic performance
Authors: Han Menghui , Cheng Fangyuan , Xie Kui
Published: December 2024

We grew PSC Fe2O3 and PSC Co3O4 catalysts and quantitatively engineered Pt clusters/metal oxide interfaces on the surfaces, which exhibit excellent electrocatalytic performance in the OER.
Selective extraction of lithium over alkali and alkaline earth ions by synergistic solvent extraction
Authors: Raiguel Stijn , Van Bogaert Laura , Balcaen Tim , Binnemans Koen
Published: December 2024

A synergistic extraction system comprising a dithiophosphoric acid and a 1,10-phenanthroline derivative selectively extracts lithium from synthetic brines. The mechanism, thermodynamics and the variables influencing the selectivity are discussed.
Monodisperse Pt nanoparticle arrays via block copolymer nanopatterning and their reaction kinetics on CO oxidation
Authors: Yang Geon Gug , Jin Hyeong Min , Park Minsu , Kim Minha , Shin Dong-Wook , Kim Sang Ouk , Jung WooChul , Lee Siwon
Published: December 2024

This study presents a well-defined 2D model catalytic system, bridging it with 3D catalysts, and showcasing BCP nanopatterning for obtaining a foundational structure for advancing catalytic research.
Emerging devices based on chiral nanomaterials
Authors: Lv Jiawei , Sun Rui , Gao Xiaoqing
Published: December 2024

Chiral nanomaterials, as a class of advanced materials, have recently attracted extensive attention on account of their unique physical and chemical properties that stem from their special geometry.
Pure red emission with spectral stability in full iodine-based quasi-2D perovskite films by controlling phase distribution
Authors: Ming Zhiqiang , Li Siyao , Luo Xinyi , Liu Siman , Zhang Danliang , Zhu Xiaoli , Pan Anlian , Wang Xiao
Published: December 2024

We synthesized full iodine-based quasi-2D perovskite films with pure red emission and a narrow peak width by manipulating the phase distribution of the films.
Optimization of physicochemical properties of theophylline by forming cocrystals with amino acids
Authors: Li Qi , Xie Yifei , Wang Zhipeng , Li Shuang , Yang Shiying , Yang Dezhi , Zhang Li , Du Guanhua , Lu Yang
Published: December 2024

This study presents the novel crystal structures of theophylline (THE) and amino acids (GABA and ARG). The solubility and permeability of THE in both novel cocrystals, THE-GABA and THE-ARG-2H2O, increased, especially in the latter.
Rational design and synthesis of novel phenyltriazole derivatives targeting MRSA cell wall biosynthesis
Authors: Elsebaei Mohamed M. , Ezzat Hany G. , Helal Ahmed M. , El-Shershaby Mohamed H. , Abdulrahman Mohammed S. , Alsedawy. Moaz , Aljohani Ahmed K. B. , Almaghrabi Mohammed , Alsulaimany Marwa , Almohaywi Basmah , Alghamdi Read , Miski Samar F. , Musa Arafa , Ahmed Hany E. A.
Published: December 2024

Antimicrobial resistance in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major global health challenge.
Noticeable characteristics of conventional and nonconventional hydrogen bonds in the binary systems of chalcogenoaldehyde and chalcogenocarboxylic acid derivatives
Authors: Quyen Le Thi Tu , Trung Nguyen Tien
Published: December 2024

A pivotal role of O compared to S, Se, and Te for improving the strength and characteristics of nonconventional Csp2–H⋯O/S/Se/Te hydrogen bonds was proposed.
Non-organic solvent extraction of capsaicinoids from oil combined with fluorescent lateral flow immunoassay strips for on-site identification of illegally recycled waste cooking oil
Authors: Wang Yulian , Wu Yuxiang , Gesang Deji , Dong Zixuan , Qin Zhaoxu , Li Qingchun , Li Jin , Zhou Qianxu , Shi Guoqing
Published: December 2024

The illicit use of recycled waste cooking oil poses a threat to food safety, yet there is currently a lack of on-site identification methods.
Electrosynthesis of a RuAg alloy for an efficient alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Chiou Tzung-Wen , Shen Jia-Min
Published: December 2024

A RuAg alloy with a FCC structure exhibited excellent HER activity, with an overpotential of 30 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in 1.0 M KOH solution.
Fluorinated catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction: a comprehensive review of synthesis, structure, and performance
Authors: Luo Zhiping
Published: December 2024

Fluorination has been proven to be an effective strategy to boost catalysts' OER performance by significantly reducing overpotential and the Tafel slope while enhancing stability.
Bioactive zeolitic imidazolate framework nanoconjugates as synergistic drug delivery agents for cancer nanotherapeutics
Authors: Mousavi Seyyed Mojtaba , Chiang Wei-Hung , Gholami Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Bioactive ZIF-67 and ZIF-8 nanocarriers functionalized with saponin and apigenin demonstrate synergistic drug delivery and apoptosis induction, offering potential for targeted cancer nanotherapeutics with minimal side effects.
Evaluation of rare earth elements (REEs) in selected Nigerian coal fly ash: a prelude to extraction and waste management
Authors: Ojonimi Theophilus Ile , Pesonen Janne , Asuke Ferdinard , Aliyu Mohammed Ramalan , Okeme Ilemona , Groppo John
Published: December 2024

REEs in the selected fly ash samples were quantified. Results indicate potentially extractable total REEs. Findings are useful for waste management and extraction routes development.
Review of dataset and algorithms for distribution network pseudo measurement
Authors: Ju Yuntao , Jia Xuwen , Wang Biqing
Published: December 2024

Pseudo‐measurement production of distribution networks is an important technology for ensuring the visibility of distribution networks. The paper discusses the concept of pseudo‐metrics, databases, algorithms, and applications in practical engineering. Firstly, the basic concept of Pseudo‐measurement of the distribution network is introduced. Subsequently, various pseudo‐measurement databases and algorithms are discussed in detail, and the advantages and limitations of these methods in dealing with the historical and operational data of medium‐voltage pseudo‐measurement distribution networks are compared and analysed. Then, the main application of pseudo‐measurement is analysed. Finally, the main challenges in the field of pseudo‐measurement of the distribution networks are discussed, such as data quality, computational complexity, model accuracy, and feasibility in practical application. The development direction of future research is envisaged.
Lasers with double asymmetric barrier layers: Direct versus indirect capture of carriers into the lasing ground state in quantum dots
Authors: Hammack Cody , Asryan Levon V.
Published: December 2024

Static and dynamic characteristics of a quantum dot (QD) laser with double asymmetric barrier layers – an advanced type of semiconductor laser – are studied. Both direct and indirect capture of carriers into the lasing ground state in QDs is considered. The intradot relaxation of carriers, which controls the laser characteristics in the case of only indirect capture, is shown to not be a significant factor in the case of both direct and indirect capture. In the latter case, both the output optical power and modulation bandwidth are considerably increased.
A novel thyristor‐based hybrid DC circuit breaker with short arcing capability
Authors: Jia Guanlong , Yuan Yuchen , Guo Hongjiang , Wang Xiaoxue , Niu Feng
Published: December 2024

Multi‐terminal flexible high‐voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission and DC grid technology are developing rapidly. The hybrid DC circuit breaker (HCB) has broad application prospects in the field of HVDC transmission and DC power grid. Nevertheless, existing HCBs have one or more following blemishes: arc suppression scheme of mechanical switch, high cost and unreliable adaptive reclosure. In this paper, a modified thyristor‐based hybrid DC circuit breaker with short arcing capacity (SA‐HCB) is introduced, which consists of the main branch, the fault handling branch and the pre‐charging branch. Besides, the modified SA‐HCB has the inherent capability of adaptive reclosing. The advantages of thyristors are fully used in the SA‐HCB, such as low cost, low conduction voltage drop, and natural shutdown. The detailed structure diagram and mathematical model of the SA‐HCB are introduced, and the operation processes of the fault current transfer are also analysed. Later, a design method for parameters of the proposed SA‐HCB is provided. Then, a single‐ended equivalent system is built in PSCAD/EMTDC to verify the accuracy of the theoretical analysis and parameter design. Subsequently, based on four‐terminal simulation, the economy of the SA‐HCB is verified by comparing with the topology proposed by ABB. Finally, the small‐scale experiment of the proposed SA‐HCB is introduced.
Design and application of novel stripline for IC‐EMC characteristic measurement
Authors: Lin Han‐Nien , Ho Tzu‐Hao , Chang Wei‐Yen , Kuo Chung‐Wei
Published: December 2024

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has introduced the IEC 61967‐8 stripline measurement method for the measurement of radiated emissions in integrated circuits (ICs). This method stipulates that the stripline's voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) must be less than 1.25 within the frequency range of 150 kHz to 3 GHz. The established IEC 61967‐8 stripline measurement method can accurately identify the location of EMI in an IC and hence mitigation measure can be effectively implemented. In this work, the IC stripline design is adapted for ICs with various functions and applications with the aid of Ansys HFSS 3D full‐wave simulations and actual measurements to study the impedance and reflection characteristics of IC striplines on test boards. A novel IC stripline structure design process is proposed to enhance the VSWR performance of IC striplines. Subsequently, a novel IC stripline has been fabricated and tested using the IEC 61967‐8 stripline measurement method. The designed novel IC stripline demonstrated compliance with IEC 61987‐8 specification and the measurement results showed consistency with the simulation results. The works can benefit the promotion of high frequency circuit design and the development of testing process and in turn, enabled the improvement of the reliability and performance of the designed products.
Asteroseismic modelling of fast rotators and its opportunities for astrophysics
Authors: Aerts Conny , Tkachenko Andrew
Published: December 2024

Rotation matters for the life of a star. It causes a multitude of dynamical phenomena in the stellar interior during a star’s evolution, and its effects accumulate until the star dies. All stars rotate at some level, but most of those born with a mass higher than 1.3 times the mass of the Sun rotate rapidly during more than 90% of their nuclear lifetime. Internal rotation guides the angular momentum and chemical element transport throughout the stellar interior. These transport processes change over time as the star evolves. The cumulative effects of stellar rotation and its induced transport processes determine the helium content of the core by the time it exhausts its hydrogen isotopes. The amount of helium at that stage also guides the heavy element yields by the end of the star’s life. A proper theory of stellar evolution and any realistic models for the chemical enrichment of galaxies must be based on observational calibrations of stellar rotation and of the induced transport processes. In the last few years, asteroseismology offers such calibrations for single and binary stars. We review the current status of asteroseismic modelling of rotating stars for different stellar mass regimes in an accessible way for the non-expert. While doing so, we describe exciting opportunities sparked by asteroseismology for various domains in astrophysics, touching upon topics such as exoplanetary science, galactic structure and evolution, and gravitational wave physics to mention just a few. Along the way we provide ample sneak-previews for future ‘industrialised’ applications of asteroseismology to slow and rapid rotators from the exploitation of combined Kepler, Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of stars (PLATO), Gaia, and ground-based spectroscopic and multi-colour photometric surveys. We end the review with a list of takeaway messages and achievements of asteroseismology that are of relevance for many fields of astrophysics.
Hadronic particle acceleration in the supernova remnant SN 1006 as traced by Fermi-LAT observations
Authors: Lemoine-Goumard M. , Acero F. , Ballet J. , Miceli M.
Published: December 2024

The supernova remnant SN 1006 is a source of high-energy particles detected in the radio, X-rays, and tera-electronvolt gamma rays. It was also announced as a source of gamma rays by Fermi-LAT, but only the north-east (NE) limb was detected at a significance level of more than 5σ. Using 15 years of Fermi-LAT observations and a thorough morphological analysis above 1 GeV, we report the detection of the NE rim at the 6σ level and the south–west (SW) rim at the 5.5σ level using radio templates from the GLEAM survey. The spectral analysis performed between 100 MeV and 1 TeV allows for the detection of a hard spectral index for the NE limb of 1.7 ± 0.1 ± 0.1, while the emission detected in the SW is reproduced well with a steeper spectral index of 2.2 ± 0.1 ± 0.1. A marginal detection (~3σ) of emission coincident with the bright north-west Hα filament is also described with a similar spectral index of ~2.1. We have successfully characterised the non-thermal multi-wavelength emission of the NE and SW limbs with a model in which inverse-Compton emission dominates in the NE, while proton-proton interactions becomes significant in the SW due to the enhanced density of the medium.
An archaeoacoustic analysis of Wren’s auditorium churches: A case study of St Stephen Walbrook (1672–1679), London
Authors: Sluyts Yannick , Houvenaghel Marijke , Morel Anne-Francoise , Rychtarikova Monika , De Jonge Krista
Published: December 2024

Sir Christopher Wren (1632–1723) was responsible for the rebuilding of 52 parish churches in 17th-century London after the Great Fire of 1666. In literature his parish church designs are often referred to as “auditorium churches”, as Wren himself claimed that he treated visibility and audibility as priorities in his designs. Proof of this can be found in his own manuscripts where he mentions a few practical recommendations regarding room acoustics for churches. In the 17th century, contemporary scientists, amongst whom Robert Hooke (1635–1703), took interest in studying the propagation of sound through the air and formulate theories to explain the occurrence of echoes. However, a more comprehensive theory of reverberation in rooms was only developed later in the 20th century. Hence the question whether Wren’s churches were in fact “fitted for auditories” [Wren et al., Letter to a Friend on the Commission for Building Fifty New Churches (1711). Parentalia, The Life of Sir Christopher Wren, Knt., London, WS, pt. 2, sec. 9, 318-321, Transcript in WS, 9 (1750) 15–18] and what informed Wren in the design of his “auditorium churches”. In this paper the parish church of St Stephen’s Walbrook London is evaluated acoustically using a modern approach. Measured impulse responses were used to calibrate a reconstructed CAD model of the church in its 17th-century condition. Through different acoustic model scenarios, we were able to put Wren’s own recommendations concerning the acoustics of his parish church designs to the test. The speech intelligibility in St Stephen’s Walbrook was deemed adequate in its 17th-century configuration, the application of at least one of his recommendations leading to an improvement. It could not be shown, however, that Wren had full control over the room acoustic conditions in the church.
Reprogrammation, lignée germinale et empreinte génomique parentale
Authors: Roidor Clara , Chebli Karim , Borensztein Maud
Published: December 2024

Le maintien de l’identité cellulaire par l’épigénome est crucial pour le développement d’un individu. Les marques chromatiniennes assurent la stabilité de l’expression génique. La reprogrammation épigénétique est un phénomène naturel au cours du développement des mammifères, en particulier lors de l’émergence de la lignée germinale. Les cellules germinales primordiales (PGC) subissent un profond remodelage de la chromatine, comprenant une déméthylation globale de l’ADN et l’effacement des empreintes parentales. Cette revue introduit les notions de reprogrammation épigénétique, y compris sa découverte et ses étapes principales, la lignée germinale murine qui inclut ses changements transcriptionnels et chromatiniens, ainsi que l’empreinte génomique parentale, ses mécanismes et son importance chez l’homme.
Les maladies génétiques de la machinerie épigénétique
Authors: de Dieuleveult Maud , Velasco Guillaume
Published: December 2024

Le développement des technologies de séquençage et leur accessibilité accrue dans les services hospitaliers et les laboratoires de génétique a considérablement accéléré l’identification de variants génétiques associés aux maladies rares. Parmi celles-ci, les maladies génétiques de la machinerie épigénétique (MGME) se caractérisent par la présence de mutations dans des gènes codant des régulateurs épigénétiques qui jouent un rôle clé dans le développement de l’organisme et les fonctions cellulaires. En conséquence, la perte de fonction de ces régulateurs entraînerait des modifications de l’épigénome affectant profondément l’expression du génome et l’identité cellulaire. À ce titre, des perturbations du profil de méthylation de l’ADN ont été décrites dans plusieurs MGME et constituent d’ores et déjà un outil reconnu d’aide au diagnostic. L’enjeu est maintenant de savoir si et comment ces altérations de l’épigénome sont à l’origine des manifestations cliniques chez les patients atteints de cette classe particulière de maladies monogéniques. Ainsi, l’étude des MGME peut nous éclairer sur l’importance du rôle de l’épigénétique en santé, notamment sur les mécanismes impliqués dans l’émergence et la compréhension de maladies complexes comme les maladies neurodéveloppementales ou les cancers.
Rapid Antidepressant and Antisuicidal Effects of Low-Dose Ketamine
Infusion in Patients With Treatment-Resistant Depression With or Without
Low-Grade Inflammation
Authors: Chen Mu-Hong , Su Tung-Ping , Lin Wei-Chen , Li Cheng-Ta , Wu Hui-Ju , Tsai Shih-Jen , Bai Ya-Mei , Mao Wei-Chung , Tu Pei-Chi
Published: December 2024

Low-grade inflammation (LGI) contributes to resistance
against traditional antidepressants. However, whether the antidepressant and
antisuicidal effects of ketamine on patients with treatment-resistant
depression (TRD) differ between those with LGI and those without LGI remains
unknown.

This study included 167 patients with TRD, among whom 46 had LGI and
121 did not have LGI. The patients received a single infusion of either
low-dose ketamine or a placebo. A C-reactive protein level of≥3 mg/L
indicated LGI. Depressive symptoms were measured from baseline to day 3 by
using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and the
Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS).

Generalized estimating equation models revealed antidepressant effect
of ketamine in patients with no LGI (HDRS scores: p<0.001; MADRS
scores: p<0.001) but not in patients with LGI (all
p>0.05). The antisuicidal effect of ketamine (indicated by the
score on item 10 of the MADRS) was observed in both groups of patients with
(p=0.046) and without LGI (p<0.001). However, ketamine
was effective for TRD regardless of whether inflammation levels were high or
low, while the placebo response was notably greater only in patients with
LGI.

This study suggests that among patients with TRD, only
those without LGI respond to low-dose ketamine infusion. Whether the
negative findings of the antidepressant effect of ketamine among patients
with LGI may be because of the effect of the placebo infusion needs further
investigation. Further randomized, placebo-controlled studies are needed to
validate these findings.
Socioeconomic Burden of Pulmonary Embolism in Europe: Shifting Priorities and Challenges for Novel Reperfusion Strategies
Authors: Mohr Katharina , Barco Stefano , Neusius Thomas , Konstantinides Stavros
Published: December 2024

In-hospital case fatality related to acute pulmonary embolism (PE) has been falling since the beginning of this century. However, annual incidence rates continue to climb, and an increasing number of PE survivors need long-term follow-up, chronic anticoagulation treatment, and readmission(s) to the hospital. In European countries, median reimbursed hospital costs for acute PE are still moderate compared with the United States but can increase several-fold in patients with comorbidities and those necessitating potentially life-saving reperfusion treatment. The use of catheter-directed treatment (CDT) has constantly increased in the United States since the past decade, and it has now entered a rapid growth phase in Europe as well, estimated to reach an annual penetration rate of up to 31% among patients with intermediate–high- or high-risk PE by 2030. Ongoing randomised controlled trials are currently investigating the clinical efficacy and safety of these devices. In addition, they will deliver data permitting calculation of their cost-effectiveness in different health care reimbursement systems, by revealing the extent to which they can reduce complications and consequently the need for intensive care and the overall length of hospital stay. After discharge, key cost drivers are related to chronic cardiopulmonary diseases (other than PE itself) leading to frequent readmissions, persistent symptoms, and functional limitations which result in poor quality of life, productivity loss, and substantial indirect costs. Implementation of structured outpatient programmes with a holistic approach to post-PE care, targeting overall cardiovascular health and the patient's well-being, bears the potential to cost-effectively reduce the overall socioeconomic burden of PE.