bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Nigella (Nigella sativa L.) Collections Using Principle Component Analysis
Authors: Singh S. P. , Kumar Avinash , . Banshidhar , Suman Sandeep Kumar , Kumar Ashutosh , Singh P. P. , Kishor Kaushal , Singh U. K. , Choudhary V. K. , Kumar Rajesh
Published: July 2019

Seventeen land races of Nigella along with one released variety (Rajendra Shyama) as a check; collected at farmer’s field from different parts of Bihar were evaluated in Randomized Block Design with three replications at Seed production Farm, TCA, Dholi, Bihar during Rabi 2015-16 to identify  diverse Nigella genotypes. Principle component analysis (PCA) showed that first three PCs had >1.00 Eigen value and accounted to 84.71% of total variation. Rotated component matrix for various traits revealed that PC1 was strongly associated with secondary branches/plant followed by yield/plant, length of fruit, fruit per plant, primary branches/plant, height of the plant, days to 50% flowering and grains/plant. The traits that mostly contributed to PC2 were grains/plant followed by height of the plant and width of fruit whereas, days to maturity followed by width of fruit, height of the plant, days to 50% flowering and length of fruit contributed mostly to the PC3.  The characters that contributed most to the PC4 were height of the plant, fruit/plant and length of fruit. Therefore, intensive selection procedures can be adopted to bring about rapid improvement of above mentioned traits. The k-mean of different clusters indicated that genotype falling in cluster III possess high values for all the traits under study indicating their potentiality as a parent in hybridization programmes for further improvement of Nigella. Highest inter-cluster distance was noted between cluster III and V indicating the genetic diversity among genotypes of these two clusters. Therefore, genotypes from these two clusters are recommended to use in hybridization programmes for further improvement.
Antipuritive Effect of Aqueous Root Extracts of Moringa oliefera on Alcohol-induced Haematoxicity in Wistar Rats
Authors: Ekpo Grace , Ofem Eteng , Bassey Stella , Abam Kenyoh , Arikpo Iwara , Enobong Joe , Ufot Saviour , Ekam Victor
Published: July 2019

Aim: The study is aimed at investigating the antinutritive effects of aqueous root extract of Moringa oleifera on haematological indices following sub-chronic consumption of alcohol in Wistar rats.

Methods and Materials: Thirty (30) experimental rats weighing 100-120 g were randomly divided into 6 groups of 5 rats each. Group 1, the normal control group was given just rat feed and water, group 2, negative control was administered alcohol only (1.5 ml/kg body weight), rats in group 3, 4 and 5 received combined administration of alcohol 1.5 ml/kg body weight and 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg body weight of aqueous root extract of Moringa oleifera respectively, group 6 rats were administered 250 mg/body weight of extract only. At the end of fourteen days (14) the experimental rats were then sacrificed, and blood was collected for haematological analysis.

Results: The result obtained shows a dose-dependent response in almost all the parameters, white blood cell (WBC) count increases significantly(P<0.05) with 600 mg/kg while dose 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/g shows no significant change. Red blood cells (RBC) decreases non-significantly (P<0.05) with increased amount of aqueous Moringa root extract.  Likewise, there was also a dose-dependent decrease in the haematological count and more noticeable with 200 mg/kg dose. It was also observed that mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) increases in all the treatment groups with significant observed in 400 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg. The increase in alcohol can bring about suppression of the blood cells production, enhance if there is reduction in the red blood cells, it, therefore, implies that the will be reduction in the oxygen-carrying capacity of the red blood cells, that would be carried to the tissues as well as the level of carbon dioxide returned to the lungs. Also, the PCV is involved in the transport of oxygen and absorption of the nutrient. Therefore, increase in PCV, shows a better transportation and thus results in an increase in both primary and secondary polycythemias.

Conclusion: This research work shows that the plant extract contains some bioactive component or phytochemical constituents that are capable of ameliorating the toxicity effect of alcohol on animal models.
Biostimulant and Micronutrient Applications in the Production of Acacia mangium Seedlings
Authors: Alves Nathália Ferreira , Lima Sebastião Ferreira de , Lima Ana Paula Leite de , Simon Catia Aparecida , Virgilio Damis Pedro Paulo
Published: July 2019

Aims: Evaluate the effects of applying biostimulant and micronutrients on Acacia mangium Willd seedlings.

Study Design: A randomized complete block design was used in a 2x5 factorial scheme, with four replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, at the Chapadão do Sul Campus, MS, with the geographical coordinates 18º46’ 44” S and 52º36’ 49” W, in a nursery area from October 2015 to January 2016.

Methodology: The treatments consisted of a combination of the presence or absence of a solution containing micronutrients and five doses of biostimulant (0, 7.5, 15.0, 22.5, and 30.0 mL per L of water). The commercial product Stimulate™ was used as the biostimulant, and the micronutrient solution was prepared at the concentration of 1.0%. The micronutrients in the solution were in the following formulations: ZnS04, H3BO3 and CuS04. The seeds were sown in tubes containing the commercial substrate Carolina Soil do Brasil, together with the use of Osmocote Plus™ fertilizer.

Results: The use of biostimulant associated with micronutrients favored the rate of emergency speed. The doses of 24.8, 14.0 and 26.1 mL L-1 of biostimulant water provided the highest values for leaf area, plant height and total dry mass, respectively, when associated with the use of micronutrients. The height / diameter ratio decreased with increasing doses of biostimulant, while the Dicson quality index increased in the same condition.

Conclusion: The use of micronutrients and biostimulants were favourable for the production of A. mangium seedlings. Only the height/diameter ratio (HDR) reduced for all biostimulant doses.
Effect of Cooperative Learning Strategy on Biology Students’ Academic Performance in Senior Secondary School in Rivers State
Authors: Gloria Ibemenji Kingdom-Aaron, , Sunday Etokeren, Inibehe , Chijioke Okwelle, P.
Published: July 2019

Aims: This study investigated the effect of cooperative learning strategy on students’ academic performance in biology in Senior Secondary Schools in Rivers State.

Study Design: Quasi-experimental design.

Place and Duration of Study: Port Harcourt, Rivers State, located in the South-South geo-political zone of Nigeria, West Africa.

Methodology: The population consist of 2,150 Senior Secondary three biology students out of which 120 students of intact classes in selected schools formed the sample. Three research questions and three hypotheses guided the study. The instrument used in data collection was Biology Performance Test developed by the researchers. The test items were selected from standardized past questions of Senior School Certificate Examinations conducted by The West African Examinations Council and validated by two lecturers in Science Education and one lecturer in Measurement and Evaluation. The reliability coefficient was determined by test retest method using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient to be 0.78. Mean, standard deviation and t-test at .05 level of significance were used for data analysis.

Results: The results of the study revealed a significant difference in performance between students taught biology with cooperative learning strategy and those taught with conventional lecture method. Students in the experimental group where cooperative learning teaching strategy was adopted scored significantly higher in biology performance test than those in lecture method group. There was no significant difference in performance based on gender (male and female) and school type (public or private).

Conclusion: Cooperative learning strategy is more effective in teaching and enhances biology students’ performance than the conventional lecture method.
The Vacancy Energy in Metals: Cu, Ag, Ni, Pt, Au, Pd, Ir and Rh
Authors: Akande T. H. , Matthew-Ojelabi F. , Agunbiade G. S. , Faweya E. B. , Adeboje A. O.
Published: July 2019

The predictive calculations of vacancy formation energies in metals: Cu, Ag, Ni, Pt, Au, Pd, Ir and Rh are presented. The energy is given as a function of electron density. Density functional theory underestimates the vacancy formation energy when structural relaxation is included. The unrelaxed mono-vacancy formation, unrelaxed di-vacancy formation, unrelaxed di-vacancy binding and low index surface energies of the fcc transition metals Cu, Ag, Ni, Pt, Au, Pd, Ir and Rh has been calculated using embedded atom method. The values for the vacancy formation energies agree with the experimental value. We also calculate the elastic constants of the metals and the heat of solution for the binary alloys of the selected metals. The average surface energies calculated by including the crystal angle between planes (hkl) and (111) correspond to the experiment for Cu, Ag, Ni, Pt and Pd. The calculated mono-vacancy formation energies are in reasonable agreement with available experimental values for Cu, Ag, Au and Rh. The values are higher for Pt and Ir while smaller values were recorded for Ni and Pd. The unrelaxed di-vacancy binding energy calculated agrees with available experimental values in the case of Cu, Ni, Pt and Au.
Musicality as a Health-Relevant Factor for Hearing Outcomes
Authors: Nayak Srishti , Moberly Aaron C. , Tamati Terrin N.
Published: December 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the need for new tools for early risk detection of age-related hearing loss and precision medicine in hearing health.
Open‐Circuit Voltage Loss Management for Efficient Inverted Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Li Yifan , Yang Shaopeng , Yan Shan , Liu Xiaoyu , Shi Guodong , He Tingwei
Published: December 2024

Wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are often used as the top cells of tandem solar cells (TSCs) to break the theoretical efficiency limit of single‐junction photovoltaic devices. Nevertheless, the serious open‐circuit voltage (VOC) loss issue in WBG perovskite systems restricts the development of high‐performance solar cells. Based on understanding the physical mechanism that determines the VOC of photovoltaics, the dominant factors of larger VOC loss are summarized in WBG perovskite systems from three aspects: crystal defects, film composition, and device structure. Then the VOC loss issue is targeted from three perspectives: defect passivation of crystals, crystallization dynamics regulation of films, and carrier dynamics management of devices. Finally, the role of transparent conductive oxide materials and interconnect layers in the VOC loss of TSCs are reviewed. By summarizing recent research progress, the review provides a new perspective to improve the performance of WBG PSCs.
Intercalation‐Assisted In Situ Exfoliation of Cu2Se Nanosheets as Anode for Ultralong‐Life Aqueous “Rocking‐Chair” Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Bai Youcun , Lv Qidong , Wu Zhixian , Sun Wei , Liang Wenhao , Zhang Heng , Ma Ruguang , Li Chang Ming
Published: December 2024

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) are a potential energy storage device due to their low cost and environmental friendliness. However, the problems of Zn metal anode lead to low coulombic efficiency and safety problems, thus hindering the practical application of AZIBs. Therefore, developing zinc‐metal free anode materials can effectively avoid the problems. Herein, an intercalation‐assisted in situ exfoliation mechanism is reported to obtain Cu2Se nanosheets (E‐Cu2Se) during the electrochemical reaction. The good conductivity of Cu2Se nanosheets ensures the rapid (de)intercalation of zinc ions and excellent charge transport properties in Cu2Se. Furthermore, Cu2Se not only has strong structural stability itself but also can effectively inhibit zinc dendrite through the conversion of copper between the cathode and anode. The results show that the E‐Cu2Se electrode has a low intercalation potential (≈0.4 V) and a high specific capacity of 284.8 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1. Meanwhile, a “rocking‐chair” aqueous zinc‐ion battery assembled with ZnxMnO2 as cathode delivers a specific capacity of 40 mAh g−1 after 60 000 cycles. The exfoliation mechanism of E‐Cu2Se is discussed based on various characterization techniques and theoretical calculations. This study is expected to provide a new avenue for the development high‐performance “rocking‐chair” AZIBs.
FACS‐Sortable Triple Emulsion Picoreactors for Screening Reactions in Biphasic Environments
Authors: Thompson Samuel , Zhang Yanrong , Yang Zijian , Nichols Lisa , Fordyce Polly M.
Published: December 2024

Biphasic environments can enable successful chemical reactions where any single solvent results in poor substrate solubility or poor catalyst reactivity. For screening biphasic reactions at high throughput, a platform based on microfluidic double emulsions can use widely available FACS (Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting) machines to screen millions of picoliter reactors in a few hours. However, encapsulating biphasic reactions within double emulsions to form FACS‐sortable droplet picoreactors requires optimized solvent phases and surfactants to produce triple emulsion droplets that are stable over multi‐hour assays and compatible with desired reaction conditions. This work demonstrates such FACS‐sortable triple emulsion picoreactors with a fluorocarbon shell and biphasic octanol‐in‐water core. First, surfactants are screened to stabilize octanol‐in‐water emulsions for the picoreactor core. With these optimized conditions, stable triple emulsion picoreactors (>70% of droplets survived to 24 hr), produced protein in the biphasic core via cell‐free protein synthesis are generated, and sorted these triple emulsions based on fluorescence using a commercial FACS sorter at >100 Hz with 75–80% of droplets recovered. Finally, an in‐droplet lipase assay with a fluorogenic resorufin substrate that partitions into octanol is demonstrated. These triple emulsion picoreactors have the potential for future screening bead‐encoded catalyst libraries, including enzymes such as lipases for biofuel production.
Photothermal Laser Printing of Sub‐Micrometer Crystalline ZnO Structures
Authors: Steurer Matthias , Somers Paul , Kraft Kristian , Grünewald Lukas , Kraus Steven , Feist Florian , Weinert Bastian , Müller Erich , Dehnen Stefanie , Feldmann Claus , Eggeler Yolita M. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher , Wegener Martin
Published: December 2024

During light‐driven 3D additive manufacturing, an object represented in digital form is initially translated into a spatial distribution of light intensity (sequentially or in parallel), which then results in a spatial material distribution. To date, this process typically proceeds by photoexcitation of small functional molecules, leading to photochemically induced crosslinking of soft materials. Alternatively, thermal triggers can be employed, yet thermal processes are often slow and provide only low spatial localization. Nevertheless, sub‐micrometer ZnO structures for functional microelectronic devices have recently been laser‐printed. Herein, the photothermal laser‐printing of ZnO is advanced by i) introducing single‐crystalline rather than amorphous sub‐micrometer ZnO shapes that crystallize in the hexagonal ZnO wurtzite structure, ii) employing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) instead of water, enabling higher local process temperatures without micro‐bubble formation, and iii) using substrates tailored for light absorption and heat management, resolving the challenge of light to heat conversion. Finally, the herein‐demonstrated ZnO printing requires no post‐processing and is a cleanroom‐free technique for the fabrication of crystalline semiconductors.
Microfluidic Nanoparticle Separation for Precision Medicine
Authors: Lan Zhenwei , Chen Rui , Zou Da , Zhao Chun‐Xia
Published: December 2024

A deeper understanding of disease heterogeneity highlights the urgent need for precision medicine. Microfluidics, with its unique advantages, such as high adjustability, diverse material selection, low cost, high processing efficiency, and minimal sample requirements, presents an ideal platform for precision medicine applications. As nanoparticles, both of biological origin and for therapeutic purposes, become increasingly important in precision medicine, microfluidic nanoparticle separation proves particularly advantageous for handling valuable samples in personalized medicine. This technology not only enhances detection, diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment accuracy, but also reduces invasiveness in medical procedures. This review summarizes the fundamentals of microfluidic nanoparticle separation techniques for precision medicine, starting with an examination of nanoparticle properties essential for separation and the core principles that guide various microfluidic methods. It then explores passive, active, and hybrid separation techniques, detailing their principles, structures, and applications. Furthermore, the review highlights their contributions to advancements in liquid biopsy and nanomedicine. Finally, it addresses existing challenges and envisions future development spurred by emerging technologies such as advanced materials science, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence. These interdisciplinary collaborations are anticipated to propel the platformization of microfluidic separation techniques, significantly expanding their potential in precision medicine.
Vacuum‐Assisted Confined Growth of MOF@COF Composite Membranes with Enhanced Hydrogen Permselectivity
Authors: Li Siqi , Wan Zheng , Jin Chunxin , Hao Jinlin , Li Yanhong , Chen Xiaofang , Caro Jürgen , Huang Aisheng
Published: December 2024

With ordered and periodic network structures, adjustable pore sizes and high chemical stability, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have drawn much attention for the fabrication of superior separation membranes. However, it is challenging to prepare COF membranes with a molecular sieving property for gas separation due to their relatively large pore size. In this work, we develop the MOF‐in‐COF concept for vacuum‐assisted synthesis of metal–organic framework (MOF) ZIF‐8 inside the pores of TB‐COF formed from trihydroxy‐benzene‐tricarbaldehyde (T) and diamino‐biphenyl‐disulfonic acid (B), thus constructing a novel ZIF‐8@TB‐COF membrane. Attributing to the formation of a well‐defined one‐dimensional (1D) nanoscale transport channel, the ZIF‐8@TB‐COF membrane displays a high hydrogen permselectivity. At 100 °C and 200 kPa, the mixture separation factors of H2/CO2, H2/CH4 and H2/C3H8 are 21.9, 63.1 and 134.4, respectively, which are much higher than those of the pristine TB‐COF membrane due to the precise size sieving channels brought about by the incorporated MOF. The synthesis of ZIF‐67@TB‐COF membrane demonstrates the versatility of the synthesis strategy.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed α‐Regioselective Hydroboration of Allenes
Authors: Tan Yun‐Xuan , Li Shijia , Chen Liang , Huang Jing , Zhang Chaoshen , Song Lijuan , Zhang Xinhao , Wu Yun‐Dong , Sun Jianwei
Published: December 2024

Hydroboration of allenes is powerful and atom‐economic approach to the synthesis of organoboranes, such as the highly versatile allylboranes. However, regarding regiocontrol, existing methods uniformly deliver the boron functionality to the less hindered β‐ or γ‐position, but not the α‐position. The latter is particularly challenging for allenes with substantial steric difference between the two terminals and lacking electronic bias (e.g., 1,1‐disubstituted allenes). Herein we report the first highly efficient ruthenium‐catalyzed hydroboration of allenes featuring exclusive α‐regioselectivity, providing access to sterically hindered allyl boranes that are limitedly accessible by conventional methods. DFT studies suggested that the unusual α‐regioselectivity is attributed to the disfavored reductive elimination at the γ‐position due to the high energy cost required to overcome the agostic interaction and rotation of the key π‐allyl intermediates. This protocol is also applicable to the previously unprecedented α‐hydroalkynylation and underdeveloped α‐hydrosilylation of allenes, thus complementing known catalytic systems and providing convenient access to highly congested yet densely‐functionalized allyl silanes and skipped enynes bearing a fully‐substituted allylic carbon center. It is expected that this ruthenium‐catalyzed system can serve as a new platform for the development of other hydrofunctionalization processes with unorthodox selectivity.
Rendering Proteins Fluorescent Inconspicuously: Genetically Encoded 4‐Cyanotryptophan Conserves Their Structure and Enables the Detection of Ligand Binding Sites
Authors: Qianzhu Haocheng , Abdelkader Elwy H. , Welegedara Adarshi P. , Habel Edan , Paul Nathan , Frkic Rebecca L. , Jackson Colin J. , Huber Thomas , Otting Gottfried
Published: December 2024

Cyanotryptophans (CN‐Trp) are privileged multimodal reporters on protein structure. They are similar in size to the canonical amino acid tryptophan and some of them exhibit bright fluorescence which responds sensitively to changes in the environment. We selected aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases specific for 4‐, 5‐, 6‐, and 7‐CN‐Trp for high‐yield in vivo production of proteins with a single, site‐specifically introduced nitrile label. The absorption maximum of 4‐CN‐Trp is distinct from Trp, allowing the selective excitation of its intense fluorescence. 4‐CN‐Trp fluoresces in the visible range with an intensity rivalling that of 7‐hydroxy‐coumarin. Crystal structures of maltose binding protein demonstrate near‐complete structural conservation when a native buried Trp residue is replaced by 4‐CN‐Trp. Besides presenting an inconspicuous tag for live cell microscopy, the intense fluorescence of 4‐CN‐Trp enables measurements of subnanomolar ligand binding affinities in isotropic solution, as demonstrated by the complex between rapamycin and the peptidyl–prolyl isomerase FKBP12 furnished with a 4‐CN‐Trp residue in the substrate binding pocket. Furthermore, 4‐CN‐Trp residues positioned at different locations of a protein containing multiple tryptophan residues permits using fluorescence quenching experiments to detect the proximity of individual Trp residues to the binding site of aromatic ligands.
Structural Bifurcation in the High→Low‐Spin and Low→High‐Spin Phase Transitions Explains the Asymmetric Spin‐Crossover in [FeL2][BF4]2 (L=2,6‐Di{pyrazol‐1‐yl}isonicotinonitrile)
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed , Hall Amy , Vasili Hari Babu , Kulmaczewski Rafal , Kulak Alexander N. , Cespedes Oscar , Pask Christopher M. , Brammer Lee , Roseveare Thomas M. , Halcrow Malcolm A.
Published: December 2024

Polycrystalline [FeL2][BF4]2 (L=2,6‐di(pyrazol‐1‐yl)isonicotinonitrile) exhibits an abrupt hysteretic spin transition near 240 K, with a shoulder on the warming branch whose appearance depends on the sample history. The freshly isolated material is a ca 60 : 40 mixture of triclinic (HS1) and tetragonal (HS2) high‐spin polymorphs, which are structurally closely related. Both HS1 and HS2 undergo a high→low‐spin transition on cooling at 230±10 K. HS1 transforms to a new triclinic low‐spin phase with a doubled unit cell volume (LS3), while HS2 forms a monoclinic low‐spin phase (LS4) with similar unit cell dimensions to HS2. Single crystals of LS3 and LS4 both convert to HS1 on rewarming. The low→high‐spin transition for LS4 is ca 10 K higher in temperature than for LS3, explaining the asymmetric thermal hysteresis. Powder diffraction, calorimetry and magnetic data show that multiple cycling about the spin‐transition leads to slow enrichment of the HS1 and LS3 phases at the expense of HS2 and LS4. That is consistent with the HS2/LS4 fraction of the polycrystalline sample undergoing rare, bifurcated HS2→(LS3+LS4) and LS4→(HS1+HS2) phase transitions. The rate of enrichment of HS1/LS3 differed between these experiments, implying it is sample and/or measurement‐dependent. Three other salts of this iron(II) complex and the coordination polymer [Ag(μ‐L)]BF4 are also briefly described.
Mimicking the CO2‐Bound State of the [Ni,Fe]‐CO Dehydrogenase
Authors: Wolff Siad , Hofmann Arne , Krause Konstantin B. , Weisser Kilian , Cula Beatrice. , Lohmiller Thomas , Herwig Christian , Limberg Christian
Published: December 2024

Complexes, where a doubly reduced CO22− (carbonite) ligand is spanned between a nickel(II) centre and a transition metal(II) ion (TM=Fe, Co, Zn) have been accessed. In non‐coordinating solvents the carbonite ligand exhibits a flexible coordination behaviour as observed by NMR spectroscopy and supported by DFT calculations. In particular the [Ni‐CO2‐Fe] representative replicates the respective entity in an intermediate formed during CO2‐conversion by the enzyme [Ni,Fe]‐CODH in many ways (structure, spectroscopic properties, reactivity). Our investigations reveal that transition metal ions reduce the reduction potential of the carbonite unit but increase its tendency to undergo C−O bond cleavage. This may explain the choice of an iron(II) ion instead of a s‐ or p‐block‐based Lewis acid as part of the active site.
Binder‐Mediated Supramolecular Polymerization with Controllable Gel‐to‐Crystal Transformation in Metal‐Organic Polyhedra
Authors: Nath Das Tarak , Jena Rohan , Ghosh Goutam , Fernández Gustavo , Maji Tapas Kumar
Published: December 2024

Controlling supramolecular polymerization across various length scales through metal‐organic polyhedra in aqueous media enables functional nanomaterial fabrication beyond traditional π‐chromophoric systems. Herein, we present a straightforward strategy to tune the nano‐ and microscopic structural evolution of a co‐assembled system. Ga‐MOC ([Ga8(ImDC)12]12−, ImDC = imidazoledicarboxylate) is introduced as a discrete unit, while the Ni‐ethylenediamine complex [Ni(en)3]2+ (Ni‐en), served as the binder towards supramolecular polymerization. Comprehensive investigations revealed that adjusting the binder ratio in the bicomponent (Ga‐MOC and Ni‐en) co‐assembly process allows precise control over nanostructure length and evolution by influencing both the kinetics and thermodynamics of the assembly. At higher concentrations, this assembly forms a hydrogel above a critical binder ratio. Furthermore, the binder′s ratio significantly influences the viscoelastic strength of the hydrogels by modulating the connectivity between the MOCs through hydrogen (H)‐bonding. Intriguingly, the hydrogels gradually transformed into crystals without any external stimuli, with different timescales regulated by the binder ratio. Single crystal structure determination reveals a 3D structure composed of Ga‐MOC and Ni‐en, extended through charge‐assisted H‐bonding (CAHB) interactions, resulting through the transformation from a kinetically controlled gel state to a thermodynamically stable crystal product. This study provides an understanding of binder‐mediated control over nanostructural evolution in co‐assembled MOCs.
A pilot‐scale study of potable reuse impacts on surface water treatment
Authors: Seshan Hari , Adelman Michael J. , Russell Paige J. , Quicho Joseph , Daft Daniel , Watson Thomas
Published: December 2024

Interest is growing in direct potable reuse where advanced‐treated water and raw water are blended and fed directly to a water treatment plant (WTP). However, the impacts of raw water augmentation on treatability at drinking water treatment plants have not been studied extensively. A pilot‐scale treatment system, consisting of coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, and filtration, was set up at a WTP to treat potential future blends of advanced‐treated water and current raw water. The pilot plant was run with blends from 20% to 100% advanced‐treated water at a range of filtration rates (2–9 gpm/sf) and coagulant doses. Under all conditions, filterable water was produced, achieving acceptable turbidity removal. Turbidity removal by sedimentation was variable (30%–90%). Filtration performance was more consistent, exceeding 90% turbidity reduction under all conditions and achieving lower headloss accumulation rates at higher advanced‐treated water share. These results are optimistic for potable reuse schemes featuring raw water augmentation.
Nanostructured Ionic Liquid Containing Block Copolymer Electrolytes for Solid‐State Supercapacitors
Authors: Varghese Anto Puthussery , Zanata Daniela de Morais , Lashkari Sima , Criado‐González Miryam , Forsyth Maria , Howlett Patrick C. , Rider Andrew N. , Goujon Nicolas , Villaluenga Irune
Published: December 2024

We report on the physiochemical behaviour of membranes based on three different polystyrene‐b‐poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐polystyrene (PS‐b‐PEO‐b‐PS) block copolymers and an ionic liquid (1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMIMTFSI)) and their use as solid‐state electrolytes in supercapacitors. The nanostructured block copolymers form free standing membranes at high ionic liquid uptake with conductivities above 1 mS/cm at 25 °C, keeping ordered morphologies. We used small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) to propose the correlation between domain spacing, the copolymer chain length (N) and the interaction parameter (χeff) in the block copolymers. We explored the potential of the electrolytes in two high voltage (3.0 V) device configurations, first using carbon nanotube (CNT) electrodes, with excellent electrical conductivity and high‐rate capability exhibiting a power density of 5.7 KW/kg at 4 A/g, while devices based on high surface area activated carbon exhibited high energy density of 20.7 Wh/kg at 4 A/g. Overall, both devices deliver superior specific energy and power densities than that of commercial state‐of‐the‐art supercapacitors, based on liquid electrolyte. Additionally, the CNT|Solid‐state|CNT device displays higher power density compared to the AC|Solid‐state|AC device, highlighting its better suitability for high power applications, while the AC|Solid‐state|AC device, is better suited for energy density applications.
Conceptualising the Circular Ecosystem: An Analysis of Multiple Definitions
Authors: Aryee Raphael
Published: December 2024

The circular ecosystem (CE) concept is gaining traction among scholars and practitioners. Nonetheless, the understanding or conceptualisation of the concept is patchy, and this has the propensity to significantly affect the acceptance and assimilation of the concept into the fabric of the industrial community. This study aims to establish a transparent comprehension of the circular ecosystem concept. To this end, this study obtained 55 circular ecosystem samples of definitions, which were coded using 44 dimensions. This study illustrated that CE is mainly described as a shift from the circularity in single firms to circularity within a community of firms, achieved by networking, collaborations, configuration, platformisation, integration and symbiotic cooperation among diverse players in the business ecosystem. This study proposed a unique and comprehensive CE definition that captures the CE enablers, aims, core principles and beneficiaries. As far as the researcher is concerned, this is the first attempt to provide an extensive CE conceptualization using an empirical methodology. This will offer scholars a broader definition of CE. This current study also established that the CE is enabled by complementarity, defining roles, nurturing, governance, business models, actors, coordination, integration, biomimicry and sharing. This study also proposed a framework the captures the various CE aims, enablers, principles and beneficiaries into a single model. Finally, this study makes the CE concept more coherent and provides directions for future studies.
Molecular Spectroscopy for the Biochemical Composition Analysis of Patient‐Derived Pancreatic Cancer Organoids
Authors: Teske Christian , Liedel Katja , Hirle Alexander , Baenke Franziska , Stange Daniel E. , Weitz Jürgen , Preusse Grit , Steiner Gerald
Published: December 2024

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) continues to pose profound challenges within the field of oncology due to its notorious resistance to existing therapies and constant high mortality rates. The recent emergence of three‐dimensional patient‐derived organoid (PDO) models marks a significant advancement, opening new avenues for exploring cancer biology and assessing therapeutic approaches.

Aims

The aim of this study focuses on the innovative use of Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy to analyze PDAC organoids, thus illuminating their biochemical intricacies.

Materials and Methods

In this study, PDAC organoids, cultivated from specimens sourced from cancer patients, were subjected to FT‐IR spectroscopic imaging. By examining the spectral data within the critical fingerprint region (950–1800 cm−1), and employing principal component analysis (PCA), biochemical disparities were detected and analyzed.

Results

The results revealed distinct spectral profiles corresponding to different sample preparation techniques, which in turn highlighted variations in protein content and structure. PCA revealed a high homogeneity within classes and minimal passage number influence on spectral profiles, with variations in lipid content and protein profiles. Significantly, the biochemical fingerprint of these PDOs closely mirrored that of the original human tissue samples.

Conclusion

This investigation underscores the efficacy of molecular spectroscopy as a non‐invasive method for profound characterization of PDAC organoids, enhancing our comprehension of tumor biochemistry. The capacity for swift and precise biochemical profiling of PDOs via molecular spectroscopy heralds a promising future for this technique in the realms of cancer diagnostics and personalized medicine.
Development of Nanomaterials‐Based Agents for Selective Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Kaur Navjot , Sahoo Jagabandhu , De Mrinmoy
Published: December 2024

Bacterial infections continue to threaten public health due to limitations in rapid and accurate diagnostic techniques. While broad‐spectrum antibiotics offer empirical treatment, their overuse has fuelled the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) pathogens, posing a critical global public health challenge. In this critical scenario, nanomaterial‐based antibacterial agents emerge as a promising solution to combat bacteria and inhibit their proliferation. However, selective elimination of pathogenic bacteria is paramount. This review highlights recent advancements in developing nanomaterials for selective antibacterial activity. We categorize these agents based on their mode of action, exploring how they selectively interact with bacteria and their potential antibacterial mechanisms. This review offers crucial insights for researchers exploring the potential of nanotechnology to address the growing threat of AMR.
Dual Porphyrin‐Loaded Scintillating Nanoparticles Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy in Hypoxic Cancer Cells under X‐ray Irradiation
Authors: Maiti Debabrata , Yu Hao , An Jun Su , Yamashita Shinichi , Naito Mitsuru , Miyata Kanjiro , Kim Hyun Jin
Published: December 2024

Tumor hypoxia represents a major challenge to achieving successful therapy outcomes with photodynamic therapy (PDT). We hypothesized that systemic loading of dual porphyrins, protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) as a photosensitizer (PS) and hemin (Fe3+‐PPIX) as an oxygen generator, onto Eu‐doped NaYF4 scintillator (Sc), collectively terms as Eu‐PPIX@Hemin, could enhance the activity of X‐ray mediated PDT. Catalase‐like property of hemin in the presence of H2O2 facilitated the production of oxygen molecules (3O2) in hypoxic cancer cells. The produced 3O2 reacts with nearby excited PPIX molecules (PPIX*) in the Sc‐PS pairs to produce singlet oxygen (1O2), as cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) under X‐ray irradiation. Eu‐PPIX@Hemin nanoparticles (NPs) with a diameter of ~60 nm efficiently produced oxygen in the presence of H2O2, which its concentration in tumor cells is higher than that in normal cells. Eu‐PPIX@Hemin generated similar amounts of ROS in hypoxic cultured cancer cells under low dose X‐ray irradiation (0.5 Gy), compared to those in normoxic cancer cells. Notably, Eu‐PPIX@Hemin exhibited similar cytotoxic effects in both hypoxic and normoxic cancer cells under X‐ray irradiation. Overall, the mutual Sc‐PS performance between PPIX and Eu was synergistically enhanced by hemin in Eu‐PPIX@Hemin, which relieved hypoxia in the cancer cells under X‐ray irradiation.
Single‐Particle Measurement: A Valuable Method for Studying Structural Evolution of Battery and Performance Degradation
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Na , Li Xu , Yang Le , Song Wei‐Li , Wang Ya‐Na
Published: December 2024

Active particle materials with high capacity, safety, and abundance, such as Sn and Si‐based materials, and nickel‐rich layered materials like LiNixCoyMn1−x−yO2 (with x≥0.8) are viewed as promising candidates for the evolution of next‐generation batteries. However, structural degradation during cycling often limits the application of these active particle materials. Currently, research efforts are focused on developing new characterization techniques to understand the structural degradation mechanisms of active particle materials during the cycle, to improve their performance. This paper reviews advanced single‐particle electrochemical and structural characterization techniques and their main findings. These findings included lattice displacement and rotation, microstructure evolution, and reaction kinetics of single‐particle during cycling. In addition, we also discuss the potential future applications and developments of single‐particle measurement technologies.
Soy Protein Adhesive Enhanced Through Supramolecular Interaction with Tannic Acid Modified Montmorillonite
Authors: Bian Yanyan , Guo Qinghua , Cao Jinfeng , Li Jianzhang
Published: December 2024

The use of soybean meal (SM) as an alternative to petroleum‐based resins in wood‐based panels offers a solution to the problem of formaldehyde release. However, inherent drawbacks of soybean meal adhesives, such as poor toughness, low bond strength, and susceptibility to mold, have hindered their further development. In this study, a novel biomass adhesive, SM‐MMT@TA, was developed based on supramolecular interactions between tannic acid (TA), montmorillonite (MMT), and soybean meal. Tannic acid was securely attached to the MMT surface through coordination bonds with Ca2+, Mg2+, and Al3+ ions, enhancing MMT's compatibility in the matrix via strong interfacial interactions. TA on the surface of MMT@TA effectively bonded with soy protein through strong hydrogen bonding, thereby increasing the crosslink density. As a result, the adhesive exhibited a wet shear strength of up to 1.75 MPa, which represents a 143.05 % increase compared to unmodified SM adhesive. Moreover, the moisture absorption rate of the adhesive was reduced to 26.79 %. Furthermore, abundant non‐covalent interactions improved the adhesive's toughness, while natural polyphenols provided additional mold resistance. Overall, this study presents a new strategy for developing renewable, high‐performance biomass‐based adhesives.
Mushroom‐Mediated Redox Reactions
Authors: Yang Yan‐Long
Published: December 2024

The application of biocatalysts in organic synthesis has grown significantly in recent years, and both academia and industry are continuously searching for novel biocatalysts capable of performing challenging chemical reactions. Mushrooms are a rich source of ligninolytic and secondary metabolite biosynthetic enzymes, and therefore were considered promising biocatalysts for organic synthesis. This review focuses on the broad utilization potential of mushroom‐based biocatalysts and highlights key advances in mushroom‐mediated redox reactions. It mainly includes the reduction of ketones and carboxylic acids, hydroxylation of aromatic and aliphatic compounds, epoxidation of olefins, oxidative cleavage of alkenes, and other uncommon reactions catalyzed by the whole cells or purified enzymes of mushroom origin. Overall, a comprehensive overview of the applications of mushrooms as biocatalysts in organic synthesis is provided, which puts this versatile microorganism in the spotlight of further research.
Tandem Electroreduction of CO2 to C2+ Products Based on M‐SACs/Cu Catalysts
Authors: He Qizhe , Li Ting‐Ting
Published: December 2024

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (ECO2RR) is considered a highly promising method to produce high‐value chemicals and fuels, contributing significantly the artificial carbon balance. Plenty catalysts can facilitate the conversion of CO2 into mono‐carbon (C1) products. Among these catalysts, Cu species exhibit a distinct role in the formation of multi‐carbon (C2+) products characterized by enhanced energy density. However, the limited selectivity of C2+ products, along with the inferior stability, and high overpotential demonstrated by single‐component Cu catalysts, hinders their applicability in industrial‐scale production. The implementation of a tandem strategy, which involves coupling the CO2‐to‐CO pathway using Ag, Au, metal single‐atom catalysts (M‐SACs), etc., with the CO‐to‐C2+ conversion on Cu, represents a novel approach for the efficient generation of C2+ products. Given the high cost and restricted availability of noble metals, M‐SACs have attracted substantial interest in tandem systems due to their cost‐effectiveness and efficient atom utilization. The systematic analysis of the design principles and structure‐activity relationship is essential for the advancement of M‐SACs/Cu‐based tandem catalysts. Here we first introduce various prevalent design strategies of M‐SACs/Cu‐based tandem catalysts for ECO2RR and then systematically summarize the latest advancements of M‐SACs/Cu‐based tandem system, encompassing metal‐organic frameworks/Cu (MOFs/Cu), covalent organic frameworks/Cu (COFs/Cu), and nitrogen‐doped carbon support transition metal single atomic materials/Cu (M−N−C/Cu). Lastly, we discuss the challenges and opportunities with the design and construction of M‐SACs/Cu‐based tandem catalysis for ECO2RR.
Quantitative Systems Pharmacology‐Based Digital Twins Approach Supplements Clinical Trial Data for Enzyme Replacement Therapies in Pompe Disease
Authors: Kaddi Chanchala , Tao Mengdi , Bergeler Silke , George Kelly , Geerts Hugo , van der Graaf Piet H. , Batista Julie L. , Foster Meredith , Ortemann‐Renon Catherine , Zaher Atef , An Haack Kristina , Zaph Susana
Published: December 2024

Pompe disease is a rare, progressive neuromuscular disease caused by deficient lysosomal glycogen degradation, and includes both late‐onset (LOPD) and severe infantile‐onset (IOPD) phenotypes. Due to very small patient numbers in IOPD and the high phenotypic heterogeneity observed in this population, a quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP)‐based “digital twin” approach was developed to perform an in silico comparison of the efficacy of avalglucosidase alfa vs. the standard of care, in a virtual population of IOPD patients. A QSP model was developed that represents key elements of Pompe disease pathophysiology, including tissue glycogen accumulation and the elevation of the biomarker urine Hex4 in both LOPD and IOPD patients. In this approach, the QSP model was used to generate digital twins of each IOPD patient enrolled in the avalglucosidase alfa clinical program, considering their respective disease burden, demographics, and treatment history. This virtual cohort supplemented clinical observations by simulating and comparing tissue glycogen and urine Hex4 following avalglucosidase alfa treatment vs. the standard of care. The digital twin analysis supports the interpretation that the enhanced reduction in urine Hex4 observed following avalglucosidase alfa treatment is attributable to greater tissue glycogen clearance. Overall, this study provides mechanism‐based insight into avalglucosidase alfa efficacy across the phenotypic spectrum of Pompe disease and demonstrates the value of applying a QSP‐based digital twin analysis to support rare disease drug development.
Fuzzy Boosted Sooty Tern Optimization (FBSTO): Fault Detection and Node Recovery Approach for WSN
Authors: Chakraborty Sujay , Raghuvanshi Ajay Singh
Published: December 2024

The fault node detection and recovery is essential in WSN for improving the network lifetime and node connectivity. Ensuring the tradeoff between energy consumption and node recovery is challenged due to redundant nodes. Hence, a novel approach is developed based on the objective of automatic recovery from failure, redundant node elimination, fault node replacement, and minimalizing energy consumption. In this approach, the fuzzy boosted sooty tern optimization (FBSTO) technique is proposed for fault node detection and replacement. Based on the node density and distance, the nodes are clustered. Then, the cluster head selection process can be accomplished with a fuzzy logic approach based on distance calculation, energy consumption, and Quality of service (QoS) nodes. The node replacement is carried out through cascaded movement, which minimizes energy utilization. The efficiency of the FBSTO approach is estimated with packet delivery ratio, packet loss ratio, end‐to‐end delay, and energy consumption. The proposed approach reduces the end‐to‐end delay to 10 ms for random deployment of 100 nodes. Also, the packet delivery ratio performance of the proposed approach is 143 for 100 SNs. For existing Multi‐objective Cluster Head Based Energy‐aware Optimized Routing (MCH‐EOR), Ant Lion Optimization (ALO), Particle swarm Optimization (PSO), Gray Wolf Optimization (GWO), and Genetic approach (GA), the packet delivery ratio is reduced to 130, 60, 50, and 100. Compared with the existing approaches, the proposed approach provides better performance.
Investigation of the Impact of Combustion Chamber Geometry on Engine Combustion and Emission Performance Under Various Fuel Injection Timings With Biodiesel Blending
Authors: Wang Dongge , Bao Guangyuan , He Chao , Li Jiaqiang , Chen Yanlin , Zhao Longqing , Yu Haisheng
Published: December 2024

This study uses AVL FIRE 2020 R1 software for simulation and experimental verification to deeply analyze the impact of combustion chamber geometry and biodiesel on diesel engine performance at different injection timings. The study found that: With the advancement of injection timing, the indicated fuel consumption rate, cylinder pressure and NOx emissions of the two combustion systems increased, while the indicated thermal efficiency, temperature and Soot emissions decreased accordingly; The blending of low calorific value biodiesel will increase the indicated fuel consumption rate of the two combustion systems, but at the same time it can effectively reduce NOx and Soot emissions; The T: Turbocharger, C: Charger air cooling, D: Diesel particle filter (TCD) combustion system improves the utilization rate of cylinder air due to its unique combustion chamber geometry, thereby improving combustion performance. Compared with the Omega combustion system, the indicated thermal efficiency of the TCD combustion system increased by 6.16% to 8.38% and the indicated fuel consumption rate decreased by 5.80% to 7.73% when burning four types of fuel. In addition, the in‐cylinder pressure and temperature increased, and it performed better in reducing Soot emissions. The research results show that the TCD combustion system can effectively improve the combustion and emission performance of diesel engines, provide data support for the development of diesel engine combustion systems and the combustion of oxygen‐containing fuels in plateau environments, and provide an important reference for energy conservation and emission reduction.