bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual‐Audio Thermoelectric Detectors for Images and Sound Recognition
Authors: Liu Zekun , Zhang Shuai , Wu Zhenhua , Wang Xing‐Er , Zou Kangning , Zhu Zhiyuan , Wang Xuyu , Mu Erzhen , Zhang Xiaotian , Liu Yan , Shi Huilie , Hu Zhiyu
Published: June 2024

Inherent in humans is the capacity to perceive music and art, engaging both the visual and auditory senses, with profound effects on physiological and psychological states. Sound and light possess the remarkable ability to transform into thermal energy and, ultimately, electrical signals, playing a crucial role in human sensory perception. This research introduces a previously unmentioned synesthesia‐inspired image and sound recognition system, diverging from conventional image/sound acquisition techniques based on photo/mechanical‐electrical conversion. Leveraging the photo/acoustic‐thermal‐electric effects, the system utilizes micro‐/commercial thermoelectric devices as a conduit for energy conversion. It successfully discriminates monochromatic red, green, blue (RGB) and color coverage, showcasing its proficiency in distinguishing ten digital paintings. Additionally, by probing fiber responses to varied sound frequencies and loudness levels, the system achieves time‐domain identification of four classical music compositions. The device exhibits high sensitivity to detecting input energy and its inputting rate power, offering a novel approach to image and sound recognition through thermal signals. Potential applications span from bionic image sensors and time‐domain thermal monitoring of audio. With further exploration, this thermoelectric‐based system holds promise in quantifying emotional responses to images and sound.
Performance Degradation and Protective Effects of Atomic Layer Deposition for Mg‐based Thermoelectric Modules
Authors: Ying Pingjun , Villoro Ruben Bueno , Bahrami Amin , Wilkens Lennart , Reith Heiko , Mattlat Dominique Alexander , Pacheco Vicente , Scheu Christina , Zhang Siyuan , Nielsch Kornelius , He Ran
Published: June 2024

Thermoelectric technology has witnessed a resurgence in recent years due to increasing demands for sustainable energy sources and efficient cooling systems. Recently, the introduction of Te‐free thermoelectric modules using non‐toxic, abundant materials including p‐type MgAgSb and n‐type Mg3(Sb,Bi)2 marked a significant breakthrough. Despite promising performance, questions persist regarding long‐term robustness and stability, especially in harsh environments. In this study, a thorough exploration of thermoelectric modules is conducted, focusing on their performance degradation under various conditions. Through elemental mapping analysis, degradation mechanisms are identified within the modules during cycling in argon environments, where atomic migrations and the formation of complex oxides at contact regions are key factors. Furthermore, cycling tests in air reveal significant degradation, prompting the exploration of protective strategies. Surface coatings using atomic layer deposition (ALD) emerge as a promising solution, particularly by HfO2, demonstrating superior protective effects. Furthermore, re‐soldering effectively restores module performance is found, highlighting the importance of developing advanced soldering techniques to promote magnesium‐based thermoelectric technology as a sustainable alternative to Bi2Te3. These findings emphasize the importance of exploring novel contact materials and demonstrate the potential of ALD as a universal approach to enhancing module reliability and robustness.
Multifunctional and Electronically Conjugated Triazine Framework for Superior Electro‐Ionic Artificial Muscles
Authors: Garai Mousumi , Nguyen Van Hiep , Mahato Manmatha , Oh Saewoong , Saatchi Daniel , Yoo Hyunjoon , Ali Syed Sheraz , Van Lam Do , Taseer Ashhad Kamal , Oh Il‐Kwon
Published: June 2024

Electro‐ionic artificial muscles, consisting of a configuration where an electrolyte membrane is flanked by two active electrodes, have emerged as transformative components in the field of soft robotics. Despite this, the current actuation performance falls short for many practical applications, because most existing electrode materials exhibit limitations in terms of their properties. Here, a multifunctional active electrode material is reported for an electro‐ionic artificial muscle, employing a triazine framework that incorporates 6,6′‐Dicyano‐2,2′‐bipyridyl (DCB‐TF). The multifunctional DCB‐TF boasts fully conjugated bonds, facilitating fast electron transfer, high porosity for ion accommodation, a substantial surface area of 1800 m2 g−1 for charge storage, numerous active sites for ion interactions, and complete aromatic rings contributing to stability. The application of DCB‐TF to the active electrodes in the electro‐ionic artificial muscles yields remarkable actuation performance, including a substantial bending displacement of 24 mm at 0.5 V and 0.2 Hz, a rapid response time of 2 s, and outstanding durability sustained over 3.4 million continuous cycles. Consequently, these soft actuators have enabled a dragonfly demonstration as a form of kinetic art.
T Cells Spatially Regulate B Cell Receptor Signaling in Lymphomas through H3K9me3 Modifications
Authors: Britto Lucy S. , Balasubramani Deepali , Desai Sona , Phillips Phunterion , Trehan Neev , Cesarman Ethel , Koff Jean L. , Singh Ankur
Published: June 2024

Activated B cell‐like diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (ABC‐DLBCL) is a subtype associated with poor survival outcomes. Despite identifying therapeutic targets through molecular characterization, targeted therapies have limited success. New strategies using immune‐competent tissue models are needed to understand how DLBCL cells evade treatment. Here, synthetic hydrogel‐based lymphoma organoids are used to demonstrate how signals in the lymphoid tumor microenvironment (Ly‐TME) can alter B cell receptor (BCR) signaling and specific histone modifications, tri‐methylation of histone 3 at lysine 9 (H3K9me3), dampening the effects of BCR pathway inhibition. Using imaging modalities, T cells increase DNA methyltransferase 3A expression and cytoskeleton formation in proximal ABC‐DLBCL cells, regulated by H3K9me3. Expansion microscopy on lymphoma organoids reveals T cells increase the size and quantity of segregated H3K9me3 clusters in ABC‐DLBCL cells. Findings suggest the re‐organization of higher‐order chromatin structures that may contribute to evasion or resistance to therapy via the emergence of novel transcriptional states. Treating ABC‐DLBCL cells with a G9α histone methyltransferase inhibitor reverses T cell‐mediated modulation of H3K9me3 and overcomes T cell‐mediated attenuation of treatment response to BCR pathway inhibition. This study emphasizes the Ly‐TME's role in altering DLBCL fate and suggests targeting aberrant signaling and microenvironmental cross‐talk that can benefit high‐risk patients.
Large‐Scale Fabrication of Stable Silicon Anode in Air for Sulfide Solid State Batteries via Ionic‐Electronic Dual Conductive Binder
Authors: Wang Zhilu , Shen Xuefeng , Chen Shengjie , Qiao Rui , Sun Baoyu , Deng Junkai , Song Jiangxuan
Published: June 2024

The construction of a continuous ionic/electronic pathway is critical for Si‐based sulfide all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) with the advantages of high‐energy density and high‐cycle stability. However, a significant impediment arises from the parasitic reaction occurring between the ionic sulfide solid‐state electrolyte and electronic carbon additive, posing a formidable challenge. Additionally, the fabrication of electrodes necessitates stringent operational conditions, further limiting practical applicability. Herein, an ionic–electronic dual conductive binder for the fabrication of robust silicon anode under ambient air conditions in the absence of high‐cost and air‐sensitive sulfide solid‐state electrolyte for ASSBs is reported. This binder incorporates in situ reduced silver nanoparticles into a high‐strength polymer rich in ether bonds, establishing a conductive pathway for lithium ions and electrons. With the binder‐composited Si anode, the half‐cell exhibits a remarkable capacity of 1906.9 mAh g−1 and stable cycling for 500 cycles at a current density of 2 C (4.4 mA cm−2) under a low stack pressure of 5 MPa. The full cell using Ni0.9Co0.075Mn0.025O2 (NCM90) exhibits a remark cycling stability within 2000 cycles at 5 C (8 mA cm−2). This work presents an inspired design of functional binders for large‐scale manufacture and mild operation in a low‐cost way for Si anodes in ASSBs.
Ceria‐Optimized Oxygen‐Species Exchange in Hierarchical Bimetallic Hydroxide for Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Guo Linchuan , Zhang Zhuang , Mu Zhaori , Da Pengfei , An Li , Shen Wei , Hou Yichao , Xi Pinxian , Yan Chun‐Hua
Published: June 2024

The utilization of rare earth elements to regulate the interaction between catalysts and oxygen‐containing species holds promising prospects in the field of oxygen electrocatalysis. Through structural engineering and adsorption regulation, it is possible to achieve high‐performance catalytic sites with a broken activity‐stability tradeoff. Herein, this work fabricates a hierarchical CeO2/NiCo hydroxide for electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). This material exhibits superior overpotentials and enhanced stability. Multiple potential‐dependent experiments reveal that CeO2 promotes oxygen‐species exchange, especially OH− ions, between catalyst and environment, thereby optimizing the redox transformation of hydroxide and the adsorption of oxygen‐containing intermediates during OER. This is attributed to the reduction in the adsorption energy barrier of Ni to *OH facilitated by CeO2, particularly the near‐interfacial Ni sites. The less‐damaging adsorbate evolution mechanism and the CeO2 hierarchical shell significantly enhance the structural robustness, leading to exceptional stability. Additionally, the observed “self‐healing” phenomenon provides further substantiation for the accelerated oxygen exchange. This work provides a neat strategy for the synthesis of ceria‐based complex hollow electrocatalysts, as well as an in‐depth insight into the co‐catalytic role of CeO2 in terms of oxygen transfer.
Monodentate Phosphinoamine Nickel Complex Supported on a Metal–Organic Framework for High‐Performance Ethylene Dimerization
Authors: Chen Wenmiao , Elumalai Palani , Mamlouk Hind , Rentería‐Gómez Ángel , Veeranna Yempally , Shetty Sharan , Kumar Dharmesh , Al‐Rawashdeh Ma'moun , Gupta Somil S. , Gutierrez Osvaldo , Zhou Hong‐Cai , Madrahimov Sherzod T.
Published: June 2024

Ethylene dimerization is an efficient industrial chemical process to produce 1‐butene, with demanding selectivity and activity requirements on new catalytic systems. Herein, a series of monodentate phosphinoamine‐nickel complexes immobilized on UiO‐66 are described for ethylene dimerization. These catalysts display extensive molecular tunability of the ligand similar to organometallic catalysis, while maintaining the high stability attributed to the metal–organic framework (MOF) scaffold. The highly flexible postsynthetic modification method enables this study to prepare MOFs functionalized with five different substituted phosphines and 3 N‐containing ligands and identify the optimal catalyst UiO‐66‐L5‐NiCl2 with isopropyl substituted nickel mono‐phosphinoamine complex. This catalyst shows a remarkable activity and selectivity with a TOF of 29 000 (molethyl/molNi/h) and 99% selectivity for 1‐butene under ethylene pressure of 15 bar. The catalyst is also applicable for continuous production in the packed column micro‐reactor with a TON of 72 000 (molethyl/molNi). The mechanistic insight for the ethylene oligomerization has been examined by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The calculated energy profiles for homogeneous complexes and truncated MOF models reveal varying rate‐determining step as β‐hydrogen elimination and migratory insertion, respectively. The activation barrier of UiO‐66‐L5‐NiCl2 is lower than other systems, possibly due to the restriction effect caused by clusters and ligands. A comprehensive analysis of the structural parameters of catalysts shows that the cone angle as steric descriptor and butene desorption energy as thermodynamic descriptor can be applied to estimate the reactivity turnover frequency (TOF) with the optimum for UiO‐66‐L5‐NiCl2. This work represents the systematic optimization of ligand effect through combination of experimental and theoretical data and presents a proof‐of‐concept for ethylene dimerization catalyst through simple heterogenization of organometallic catalyst on MOF.
Computational Polarization Imaging In Vivo through Surgical Smoke Using Refined Polarization Difference
Authors: Wang Daqian , Song Jiawei , Gao Jun , Qi Ji , Elson Daniel S.
Published: June 2024

In surgery, the surgical smoke generated during tissue dissection and hemostasis can degrade the image quality, affecting tissue visibility and interfering with the further image processing. Developing reliable and interpretable computational imaging methods for restoring smoke‐affected surgical images is crucial, as typical image restoration methods relying on color‐texture information are insufficient. Here a computational polarization imaging method through surgical smoke is demonstrated, including a refined polarization difference estimation based on the discrete electric field direction, and a corresponding prior‐based estimation method, for better parameter estimation and image restoration performance. Results and analyses for ex vivo, the first in vivo animal experiments, and human oral cavity tests show that the proposed method achieves visibility restoration and color recovery of higher quality, and exhibits good generalization across diverse imaging scenarios with interpretability. The method is expected to enhance the precision, safety, and efficiency of advanced image‐guided and robotic surgery.
In Silico Screening Accelerates Nanocarrier Design for Efficient mRNA Delivery
Authors: Henser‐Brownhill Tristan , Martin Liam , Samangouei Parisa , Ladak Aaqib , Apostolidou Marina , Nagel Benita , Kwok Albert
Published: June 2024

Lipidic nanocarriers are a broad class of lipid‐based vectors with proven potential for packaging and delivering emerging nucleic acid therapeutics. An important early step in the clinical development cycle is large‐scale screening of diverse formulation libraries to assess particle quality and payload delivery efficiency. Due to the size of the screening space, this process can be both costly and time‐consuming. To address this, computational models capable of predicting clinically relevant physio‐chemical properties of dendrimer‐lipid nanocarriers, along with their mRNA payload delivery efficiency in human cells are developed. The models are then deployed on a large theoretical nanocarrier pool consisting of over 4.5 million formulations. Top predictions are synthesised for validation using cell‐based assays, leading to the discovery of a high quality, high performing, candidate. The methods reported here enable rapid, high‐throughput, in silico pre‐screening for high‐quality candidates, and have great potential to reduce the cost and time required to bring mRNA therapies to the clinic.
Phase behavior of ionic fluid in charged confinement: An associating polymer density functional theory study
Authors: Cheng Jin , Xu Jipeng , Wang Sijie , Chen Xueqian , Lian Cheng , Liu Honglai
Published: June 2024

With the rapid advancement of the new energy industry, porous electrode materials and complex electrolytes have gained widespread usage. Electrolytes exhibit distinctive phase behavior when subjected to the combined influence of confined space and electric fields. However, the measurement and prediction of such phase behavior encounter significant challenges. Consequently, numerous theoretical tools have been employed to establish models for phase equilibrium calculations. Nevertheless, current research in this field has notable limitations and fails to address the confinement of space or complex polymer electrolytes. Considering these shortcomings, an associating polymer density functional theory (PDFT) was developed by modifying excess free energy. This study examines the phase behavior of electrolytes with various chain lengths within diverse confined slits, revealing that the confinement effect and fluid tail chains can narrow the phase diagram. Additionally, a linear correlation between the electric field strength and the phase equilibrium offset has been identified, and a quantitative relationship is derived. The results of this investigation contribute to a deeper comprehension of complex fluid phase behavior and guide the design of electrochemical devices.
Thermoeconomic analysis of sCO2 power cycles
Authors: Chen Duoli , O'Connell John P. , Seider Warren D.
Published: June 2024

The second‐law analysis evaluates the irreversibilities of a process. Systematic study of the relationship between thermodynamic efficiency and process modifications enhances process synthesis. The Allam cycle is an oxy‐fuel combustion cycle with nearly complete carbon capture that offers greater efficiency than current electricity generating systems. This study applies lost work analysis to the original Allam cycle and three modifications to obtain the distribution of irreversibilities and the effects of different configurations among potential process improvements for more sustainable power generation. The major inefficiencies are from the combustors and heat exchangers. We also examine the economic profitability of the alternatives. The largest equipment costs are for the turbines, compressors, and recuperators. We find that improving efficiency leads to less economic return; a configuration with partial compression has the highest efficiency, while the original Allam cycle has the highest profitability. We discuss how to resolve this apparent conflict between sustainability and profitability.
Steering Geometric Reconstruction of Bismuth with Accelerated Dynamics for CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Wang Xiaowen , Zhang Yangyang , Wang Shao , Li Yifan , Feng Yafei , Dai Zechuan , Chen Yanxu , Meng Xiangmin , Xia Jing , Zhang Genqiang
Published: June 2024

Bismuth‐based materials have emerged as promising catalysts in the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to formate. However, the reasons for the reconstruction of Bi‐based precursors to form bismuth nanosheets are still puzzling, especially the formation of defective bismuth sites. Herein, we prepare bismuth nanosheets with vacancy‐rich defects (V‐Bi NS) by rapidly reconstructing Bi19Cl3S27 under negative potential. Theoretical analysis reveals that the introduction of chlorine induces the generation of intrinsic electric field in the precursor, thereby increasing the electron transfer rate and further promoting the metallization of trivalent bismuth. Meanwhile, experimental tests verify that Bi19Cl3S27 has a faster reconstruction rate than Bi2S3. The formed V‐Bi NS exhibits up to 96 % HCOO− Faraday efficiency and 400 mA cm−2 HCOO− partial current densities, and its electrochemical active surface area normalized formate current density and yield are 2.2 times higher than those of intact bismuth nanosheets (I‐Bi NS). Density functional theory calculations indicate that bismuth vacancies with electron‐rich aggregation reduce the activation energy of CO2 to *CO2− radicals and stabilize the adsorption of the key intermediate *OCHO, thus facilitating the reaction kinetics of formate production.
Skeletal and Mechanistic Diversity in Ir‐Catalyzed Cycloisomerizations of Allene‐Tethered Pyrroles and Indoles
Authors: Arribas Andrés , Calvelo Martín , Rey Alejandro , Mascareñas José L. , López Fernando
Published: June 2024

Pyrroles and indoles bearing N‐allenyl tethers participate in a variety of iridium‐catalyzed cycloisomerization processes initiated by a C−H activation step, to deliver a diversity of synthetically relevant azaheterocyclic products. By appropriate selection of the ancillary ligand and the substitution pattern of the allene, the reactions can diverge from simple intramolecular hydrocarbonations to tandem processes involving intriguing mechanistic issues. Accordingly, a wide range of heterocyclic structures ranging from dihydro‐indolizines and pyridoindoles to tetrahydroindolizines, as well as cyclopropane‐fused tetrahydroindolizines can be obtained. Moreover, by using chiral ligands, these cascade processes can be carried out in an enantioselective manner. DFT studies provide insights into the underlying mechanisms and justify the observed chemo‐ regio‐ and stereoselectivities.
Kopplung von Arylchloriden mit Lithium‐Nukleophilen, an molekular definierten Alkynyllithium‐Palladium‐Katalysatoren
Authors: Goebel Jonas F. , Stemmer Johanna , Krüger Nele , Sakhaee Nader , Gooßen Lukas J.
Published: June 2024

Palladiumkatalysierte Kreuzkupplungen von Arylchloriden erfordern zumeist sterisch anspruchsvolle, elektronenreiche Liganden wie Phosphine oder heterocyclische Carbene. Die Reaktion von Palladiumsalzen mit Alkinyllithium‐Reagenzien liefert jedoch ähnlich leistungsfähige Kreuzkupplungskatalysatoren. Dabei werden zunächst Dilithium‐Tetraalkinylpalladat‐Komplexe gebildet. Diese katalysieren die Kupplung von Arylchloriden mit Lithiumsalzen diverser terminaler Alkine unter Bildung von Alkinylarenen. Isolierte Li‐Alkinyl‐Pd‐Komplexe vermitteln auch Kupplungen von Aryl‐ und Allylchloriden mit (Hetero)aryl‐, Alkyl‐ und Allyllithiumverbindungen sowie mit Lithiumamiden. Keine dieser Reaktionen läuft in Gegenwart unmodifizierter Palladiumsalze ab. Der präparative Nutzen dieses Ansatzes wurde durch die Synthese von 49 Molekülen nachgewiesen, darunter pharmazeutisch relevante Verbindungen.
Interfacially Ordered NiCoMoS Nanosheets Arrays on Hierarchical Ti3C2Tx MXene for High‐Energy‐Density Fiber‐Shaped Supercapacitors with Accelerated Pseudocapacitive Kinetics
Authors: Mei Xiaotong , Yang Chao , Chen Fangyuan , Wang Yuting , Zhang Yang , Man Zengming , Lu Wangyang , Xu Jianhong , Wu Guan
Published: June 2024

Balancing electrochemical activity and structural reversibility of fibrous electrodes with accelerated Faradaic charge transfer kinetics and pseudocapacitive storage are highly crucial for fiber‐shaped supercapacitors (FSCs). Herein, we report novel core–shell hierarchical fibers for high‐performance FSCs, in which the ordered NiCoMoS nanosheets arrays are chemically anchored on Ti3C2Tx fibers. Beneficial from architecting stable polymetallic sulfide arrays and conductive networks, the NiCoMoS−Ti3C2Tx fiber maintains fast charge transfer, low diffusion and OH− adsorption barrier, and stabilized multi‐electronic reaction kinetics of polymetallic sulfide. Consequently, the NiCoMoS−Ti3C2Tx fiber exhibits a large volumetric capacitance (2472.3 F cm−3) and reversible cycling performance (20,000 cycles). In addition, the solid‐state symmetric FSCs deliver a high energy density of 50.6 mWh cm−3 and bending stability, which can significantly power electronic devices and offer sensitive detection for dopamine.
Discovery, Total Synthesis, and Anti‐Inflammatory Evaluation of Naturally Occurring Naphthopyrone‐Macrolide Hybrids as Potent NLRP3 Inflammasome Inhibitors
Authors: Sun Chunxiao , Jiang Yuqi , Li Changlong , Sun Simin , Lin Jiaqi , Wang Wenxue , Zhou Luning , Li Liping , Shah Mudassir , Che Qian , Zhang Guojian , Wang De , Zhu Tianjiao , Li Dehai
Published: June 2024

Numerous clinical disorders have been linked to the etiology of dysregulated NLRP3 (NACHT, LRR, and PYD domain‐containing protein 3) inflammasome activation. Despite its potential as a pharmacological target, modulation of NLRP3 activity remains challenging. Only a sparse number of compounds have been reported that can modulate NLRP3 and none of them have been developed into a commercially available drug. In this research, we identified three potent NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors, gymnoasins A‐C (1–3), with unprecedented pentacyclic scaffolds, from an Antarctic fungus Pseudogymnoascus sp. HDN17‐895, which represent the first naturally occurring naphthopyrone‐macrolide hybrids. Additionally, biomimetic synthesis of gymnoasin A (1) was also achieved validating the chemical structure and affording ample amounts of material for exhaustive bioactivity assessments. Biological assays indicated that 1 could significantly inhibited in vitro NLRP3 inflammasome activation and in vivo pro‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐1β release, representing a valuable new lead compound for the development of novel therapeutics with the potential to inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Efficient Photocatalytic Desulfurization in Air through Improved Photogenerated Carriers Separation in MOF MIL101/Carbon Dots‐g‐C3N4 Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyu , Wang Tianyi , He Di , Chen Peng , Liu Hang , Lv Hongying , Wu Haonan , Su Dawei , Pang Huan , Wang Chengyin
Published: June 2024

The extensive industrial applications of fuel oil, a critical strategic resource, are accompanied by significant environmental and health concerns due to the presence of sulfur‐containing compounds in its composition, which result in hazardous combustion waste. Extensive research has been conducted to develop technologies for low‐vulcanization fuel production to address this issue. Consequently, the investigation of catalysts for environmentally friendly and safe photocatalytic desulfurization becomes imperative. To that end, we have designed efficient MIL‐101(Fe)/CQDs@g‐C3N4 (MIL101/CDs‐C3N4) Z‐scheme heterojunction photocatalysts with high carrier separation and mobility through a thermal polymerization‐hydrothermal strategy. The high concentration of photogenerated carriers facilitates the activation of oxygen and H2O2, leading to increased production of ROS (⋅O2−, ⋅OH, h+), thereby enhancing the photocatalytic desulfurization (PODS). Additionally, DFT (Density functional theory) calculations were utilized to determine the electron migration pathways of the catalysts and adsorption energies of DBT (dibenzothiophene). Moreover, Gibbs free energy calculations indicated that MIL101/CDs‐C3N4 exhibited the lowest activation energy for oxygen and H2O2. The mechanism of photocatalytic desulfurization was proposed through a combination of theoretical calculations and experimental studies. This study provides guidance for the development of MOF‐based Z‐scheme systems and their practical application in desulfurization processes.
Flexible monolayer films of poly(lactic acid)/gallic acid for active food packaging: Preparation, characterization, and bioactive properties
Authors: Karamysheva Anna , Silva José M. , Facchinatto William M. , Braz Márcia D. , Almeida Adelaide , Silvestre Armando J. D. , Freire Carmen S. R. , Vilela Carla
Published: June 2024

The design of eco‐friendly active food packaging systems based on biobased polymeric materials is a growing field of research because of the pressing concern for sustainable development. Herein, monolayer ternary thermoplastic films composed of poly(lactic acid) (PLA), gallic acid (GA, 2.5% w/w relative to PLA), and a plasticizer (poly(ethylene glycol) [PEG] or epoxidized linseed oil [ELO], 5.0 and 7.5% w/w relative to PLA) are prepared via melt‐mixing followed by compression molding. The ensuing plasticized and self‐standing PLA/GA films are translucent and have good mechanical properties (Young's modulus ~2 GPa) and welding performance. The incorporation of GA yields films with ultraviolet‐light barrier properties (transmittance below 40%, 200–400 nm), antioxidant capacity (radical scavenging activity above 94%), and antibacterial activity against the methicillin‐resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus (minimum of 3‐log reduction colony forming units mL−1). These thermoplastic films are easily degradable via enzymatic degradation with proteinase K from Tritirachium album, reaching weight loss values of 100% after 9 days. The films plasticized with PEG present slightly better antibacterial action and enzymatic degradation, whereas those plasticized with ELO exhibit marginally higher surface hydrophobicity and thermal stability. Thus, the combination between PLA and GA yielded biobased films with bioactive properties that have potential for application in active food packaging.
Antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, and antioxidant evaluations of ammonium and phosphonium salts based on poly(vinylbenzyl chloride‐co‐acrylonitrile)
Authors: Kenawy El‐Refaie , Azaam Mohamed M. , Kamoun Elbadawy A. , Khattab Samar A. , Kemell Marianna , EL‐Moslamy Shahira H. , Tenhu Heikki
Published: June 2024

Polymers with ammonium or phosphonium salts have been known to possess antimicrobial activity. Herein, synthesis of poly(vinylbenzyl chloride‐co‐acrylonitrile) (P(VBC‐co‐AN)) is reported via a free radical polymerization by employing AIBN as initiator. The copolymer was then quaternized using triethylamine, triphenylphosphine, and tributylphosphine. The triphenylphosphonium salt was selected for further modification, on which the polyacrylonitrile chains were reacted with two different amines: tris (2‐aminoethylamine) and diethylenetriamine. The copolymerization, quaternization, and amination reactions were confirmed by spectroscopic and morphologic analysis besides the thermal features. The water uptake of modified polymers was investigated, where tributylphosphonium salt (KH4) showed the highest water uptake capacity (41 g/g). The antimicrobial assay findings demonstrated that all the evaluated copolymers displayed a wide range of antimicrobial activity against different multidrug resistant human pathogens, for example polymer coded KH4 containing tributylphosphonium salt showed the highest growth inhibition rates against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis populations, recorded 87% and 72%; respectively. The anti‐inflammatory activity revealed that all the quaternized copolymers have a protection effect of human erythrocyte membrane against lysis. Antioxidant results revealed that all quaternized copolymers displayed 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picryl hydrazyl scavenging activities. Among the studied copolymers, aminated copolymer coded (KH6) exhibited the highest scavenging activity, with IC50 ~ 120 μg/mL.
Hysteresis, Rectification, and Relaxation Times of Nanofluidic Pores for Neuromorphic Circuit Applications
Authors: Bisquert Juan
Published: June 2024

Based on the emergence of iontronic fluidic components for brain‐inspired computation, the general dynamical behavior of nanopore channels is discussed. The main memory effects of fluidic nanopores are obtained by the combination of rectification and hysteresis. Rectification is imparted by an intrinsic charge asymmetry that affects the ionic current across the nanopores. It is accurately described by a background conductivity and a higher conduction branch that is activated by a state variable. Hysteresis produces self‐crossing diagrams, in which the high current side shows inductive hysteresis, and the low current side presents capacitive hysteresis. These properties are well captured by measurements of impedance spectroscopy that show the correspondent spectra in each voltage wing. The detailed properties of hysteresis and transient response are determined by the relaxation time of the gating variable, that is inspired in the Hodgkin‐Huxley neuron model. The classification of effects based on simple models provides a general guidance of the prospective application of artificial nanopore channels in neuromorphic computation according to the measurement of complementary techniques.
Progress on metabolites of Astragalus medicinal plants and a new factor affecting their formation: Biotransformation of endophytic fungi
Authors: Feng Ding‐Hui , Cui Jin‐Long
Published: June 2024

It is generally believed that the main influencing factors of plant metabolism are genetic and environmental factors. However, the transformation and catalysis of metabolic intermediates by endophytic fungi have become a new factor and resource attracting attention in recent years. There are over 2000 precious plant species in the Astragalus genus. In the past decade, at least 303 high‐value metabolites have been isolated from the Astragalus medicinal plants, including 124 saponins, 150 flavonoids, two alkaloids, six sterols, and over 20 other types of compounds. These medicinal plants contain abundant endophytic fungi with unique functions, and nearly 600 endophytic fungi with known identity have been detected, but only about 35 strains belonging to 13 genera have been isolated. Among them, at least four strains affiliated to Penicillium roseopurpureum, Alternaria eureka, Neosartorya hiratsukae, and Camarosporium laburnicola have demonstrated the ability to biotransform four saponin compounds from the Astragalus genus, resulting in the production of 66 new compounds, which have significantly enhanced our understanding of the formation of metabolites in plants of the Astragalus genus. They provide a scientific basis for improving the cultivation quality of Astragalus plants through the modification of dominant fungal endophytes or reshaping the endophytic fungal community. Additionally, they open up new avenues for the discovery of specialized, green, efficient, and sustainable biotransformation pathways for complex pharmaceutical intermediates.
Stability equivalence between regime‐switching jump diffusion delayed systems and corresponding systems with piecewise continuous arguments and application to discrete‐time feedback control
Authors: Liu Xin , Cheng Pei , Cai Ting
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we mainly study the equivalence of exponential stability for regime‐switching jump diffusion delayed systems (RSJDDSs) and RSJDDSs with piecewise continuous arguments (RSJDDSs‐PCA). Our results show that if one of the RSJDDS and the RSJDDS‐PCA is
th moment exponentially stable, then another system is also
th moment exponentially stable when time delay and segment step size have a common upper bound, while both equations are almost surely exponentially stable, and we also provided a method to calculate this upper bound. In addition, as an application of the stability equivalence theorem, we design discrete‐time state and mode observations feedback control to stabilize unstable RSJDDSs and investigate that controllers of the drift, diffusion, and jump terms are all able to play a stabilizing effect on the controlled system.
Parameter learning for Wiener systems with time‐delay state‐space model
Authors: Li Feng , Ding Zhenyu , He Naibao
Published: June 2024

This paper discusses a novel scheme for learning the Wiener output error nonlinear system with time‐delay state‐space model. In the Wiener system, the dynamic linear block is approximated by time‐delay state‐space model, and the static nonlinear block is established using neural fuzzy network. Combined signals designed including separable signal and random signal are devoted to achieving parameters separation learning of the Wiener system, that is, the two blocks are learned independently. Firstly, using the properties of shift operator and transforming state‐space model with time‐delay into a representation with input and output, then linear dynamic block parameters are learned by the virtue of correlation analysis method in the condition of Gaussian signals. Moreover, a recursive extended least squares estimation is carried out to learn parameters of static nonlinear block and colored noise model under the condition of random signals. The efficiency and accuracy of proposed scheme are confirmed on experiment results of a numerical simulation and a typical practical nonlinear process, and experimental simulation results demonstrate that the learning scheme proposed obtains good learning precision.
Special structural Gramian approximation methods for model order reduction of time‐delay systems
Authors: Cheng Gaoyuan , Wang Xiaolong , Miao Zhen
Published: June 2024

Model order reduction methods via low‐rank approximation of Gramians for time‐delay systems are developed in this paper. The main contribution is to achieve the balancing and truncation of the system by utilizing low‐rank decomposition of the Gramians combined with the low‐rank square root framework. Here, based on Laguerre expansion technique, the low‐rank factorization of the system Gramians is realized via a linear system with special structure, thus enabling an efficient implementation of the reduction process. Furthermore, the issue of stability preservation is briefly described. We employ the dominant subspaces projection model reduction method to mitigate the effects which may accidentally produce unstable reduced models. Finally, numerical results verify the performance of the approximation‐Gramian methods.
Ohwia caudata inhibits doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity by regulating mitochondrial dynamics via the IGF‐IIR/p‐Drp1/PARP signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Jhong‐Kuei , Ramesh Samiraj , Islam Md. Nazmul , Shibu Marthandam Asokan , Kuo Chia‐Hua , Hsieh Dennis Jine‐Yuan , Lin Shinn‐Zong , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Huang Chih‐Yang , Ho Tsung‐Jung
Published: June 2024

The most effective drug, doxorubicin (DOX), is widely used worldwide for clinical application as an anticancer drug. DOX‐induced cytotoxicity is characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction. There is no alternative treatment against DOX‐induced cardiac damage despite intensive research in the present decades. Ohwia caudata has emerged as a potential herbal remedy that prevents from DOX‐induced cytotoxicity owing to its pharmacological action of sustaining mitochondrial dynamics by attenuating oxidative stress and inducing cellular longevity. However, its underlying mechanisms are unknown. The novel treatment provided here depends on new evidence from DOX‐treated H9c2 cells, which significantly enhanced insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) II receptor (IGF‐IIR) pathways that activated calcineurin and phosphorylated dynamin‐related protein 1 (p‐Drp1) at ser616 (p‐Drp1[ser616]); cells undergo apoptosis due to these factors, which translocate to mitochondria and disrupt their function and integrity, and in terms of herbal medicine treatment, which significantly blocked these phenomena. Thus, our findings indicate that maintaining integrity of mitochondria is an essential element in lowering DOX‐induced cytotoxicity, which further emphasizes that our herbal medicine can successfully block IGF‐IIR pathways and could potentially act as an alternative mechanism in terms of cardioprotective against doxorubicin.
Heart and vessels from stem cells: A short history of serendipity and good luck
Authors: Mummery Christine
Published: June 2024

Stem cell research is the product of cumulative, integrated effort between and within laboratories and disciplines. The many collaborative steps that lead to that special “Eureka moment”, when something that has been a puzzle perhaps for years suddenly become clear, is among the greatest pleasures of a scientific career. In this essay, the serendipitous pathway from first acquaintance with pluripotent stem cells to advanced cardiovascular models that emerged from studying development and disease will be described. Perhaps inspiration for later generations of stem cell researchers simply to follow whatever they find interesting.
Eryngial: An α,β‐Unsaturated Fatty Aldehyde as the Major Phytotoxin in Spiny Coriander (Eryngium foetidum L.) Essential Oil
Authors: Borah Gitasree , Samia Begom Rifah , Hussain Sajjad , Kemprai Phirose , Saikia Siddhartha Proteem , Haldar Saikat
Published: June 2024

Weed species many times possess allelochemicals as a part of their survival strategy. These metabolites can be potential targets in search of natural phytotoxins. This study aims to evaluate the phytotoxic ability of fatty aldehyde‐rich essential oil from spiny coriander (Eryngium foetidum) leaves, also known as fitweed or spiritweed and to further identify the active phytotoxins. This oil dose‐dependently inhibited the wheatgrass coleoptile and radicle growth in multiple bioassays with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) 30.6‐56.7 μg/mL, while exhibiting a less pronounced effect on the germination (IC50 181.8 μg/mL). The phytotoxicity assessment of two oil constituents identified eryngial (trans‐2‐dodecenal), exclusively major fatty aldehydic constituent as the potent growth inhibitor with IC50 in the range 20.8‐36.2 μg/mL during an early phase of wheatgrass emergence. Eryngial‐inspired screening of eleven saturated fatty aldehydes and alcohols did not find a significantly higher phytotoxic potency. In an open vessel, eryngial as the supplementation in agar medium, dose‐dependently inhibited the growth of pre‐germinated seeds of one monocot (bermudagrass) and one dicot (green amaranth) weed species with IC50 in the range 23.8–65.4 μg/mL. The current study identified eryngial, an α,β‐unsaturated fatty aldehyde of coriander origin to be a promising phytotoxic candidate for weed control.
Analytic and In Silico Methods to Understand the Interactions between Dinotefuran and Haemoglobin
Authors: Yadav Sandeep , Sewariya Shubham , Singh Prashant , Chandra Ramesh , Jain Pallavi , Kumari Kamlesh
Published: June 2024

This work lies in the growing concern over the potential impacts of pesticides on human health and the environment. Pesticides are extensively used to protect crops and control pests, but their interaction with essential biomolecules like haemoglobin (Hb) remains poorly understood. Spectrofluorometric, electrochemical, and in silico investigations have been chosen as potential methods to delve into this issue, as they offer valuable insights into the molecular‐level interactions between pesticides and haemoglobin. The research aims to address the gaps in knowledge and contribute to developing safer and more sustainable pesticide practices. The interaction was studied by spectroscopic techniques (UV–Visible & Fluorescence), in silico studies (molecular docking & molecular dynamics simulations) and electrochemical techniques (cyclic voltammetry and tafel). The studies showed effective binding of dinotefuran with the Hb which will cause toxicity to human. The formation of a stable molecular complex between ofloxacin and Haemoglobin was shown via molecular docking and the binding energy was found to be −5.37 kcal/mol. Further, molecular dynamics simulations provide an insight for the stability of the complex (Hb‐dinotefuran) for a span of 250 ns with a binding free energy of −53.627 kJ/mol. Further, cyclic voltammetry and tafel studies show the interaction of dinotefuran with Hb effectively.
Olive Leaf Extract Downregulates the Protein Expression of Key SARS‐CoV‐2 Entry Enzyme ACE‐2, TMPRSS2, and Furin
Authors: Kocyigit Abdurrahim , Kanımdan Ebru , Yenigun Vildan Betul , Ozman Zeynep , Balıbey Fatmanur Babalı , Durmuş Ezgi , Yasar Oznur
Published: June 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) poses ongoing global health challenges due to its propensity for mutations, which can undermine vaccine efficacy. With no definitive treatment available, urgent research into affordable and biocompatible therapeutic agents is extremely urgent. Angiotensin converting enzyme‐2 (ACE‐2), transmembrane protease serine subtype 2 (TMPRSS2), and Furin enzymes, which allow the virus to enter cells, are particularly important as potential drug targets among scientists. Olive leaf extract (OLE) has garnered attention for its potential against Coronavirus Disease‐9 (COVID‐19), yet its mechanism remains understudied. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of OLE on ACE‐2, TMPRSS2, and Furin protein expressions by cell culture study. Total phenol, flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity were measured by photometric methods, and oleuropein levels were measured by liquid LC‐HR‐MS. Cell viability was analyzed by ATP levels using a luminometric method. ACE‐2, TMPRSS2, and Furin expressions were analyzed by the Western Blotting method. ACE‐2, TMPRSS2, and Furin protein expression levels were significantly lower in a dose dependent manner and the highest inhibition was seen at 100 μg/ml OLE. The results showed that OLE may be a promising treatment candidate for COVID‐19 disease. However, further studies need to be conducted in cells co‐infected with the virus.
Two Novel Diterpenoid Alkaloids from Aconitum Pendulum
Authors: Shen Tong , He Shao‐Jun , Yang Hong‐Ying , Li Guo‐Li , Xu Ji‐Long , He Yi‐Lin
Published: June 2024

Two previously uncharacterized compounds, an aconitine‐type C19‐diterpenoid alkaloid (1) and a napelline‐type diterpenoid alkaloid C20‐diterpenoid alkaloid (2), as well as ten known compounds (3–12), were isolated from Aconitum pendulum. Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic data, including 1D and 2D NMR, IR, HR‐ESI‐MS, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The anti‐insecticidal activities of these compounds were evaluated by contact toxicity tests against two‐spotted spider mites, and compounds 1, 2, and 9 showed moderate contact toxicity, with LC50 values of 0.86±0.09, 0.95±0.23, and 0.89±0.19 mg/mL, respectively. This study highlights the potential use of diterpenoid alkaloids as natural plant‐derived pesticides for the management of plant pests.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement—Staying on the road more traveled
Authors: Das Thomas M. , Goyal Amit
Published: June 2024

Key points

With careful preprocedural planning and expertise in peripheral interventions, transfemoral (TF) TAVR can be performed even in challenging ileo‐femoral anatomies.

Patients with a minimal iliofemoral artery diameter (MLD) of <5 mm have higher rates of vascular and bleeding complications when undergoing TF‐TAVR.

In‐hospital and 30‐day mortality after TF‐TAVR did not differ between the MLD <5 mm and MLD ≥5 mm groups.
Gap derivative optimization for modeling wheat grain protein using near‐infrared transmission spectroscopy
Authors: Kondal Vishal , Jain Antil , Garg Monika , Kumar Sundeep , Singh Amit Kumar , Bhardwaj Rakesh , Singh G. P.
Published: June 2024

Background and Objective

Near‐infrared spectroscopy is an established tool for the estimation of different nutrients in diverse sample matrices. Of these, near‐infrared transmittance (NIT) has very wide usage in whole grain analysis for oil, protein, and other macronutrients. NIT spectra obtained from samples are regressed with actual laboratory values for developing prediction models. However, the spectra obtained are sloppy, slightly noisy, and show baseline drifts. To increase the resolution and signal‐to‐noise ratio, derivatives are common preprocessing tools, typically implemented along with smoothing.

Findings

A systematic study on different derivatives (1, 2, and 3) and gaps (2–90) was performed. The germplasm set with high variability for protein content (8.63%–19.56%) was used, and regression models were developed using the modified partial least squares method. Among all, the second‐order derivative gave best‐fit models; hence, the results of the gap with second‐order derivatives are studied in detail. The plot of R2 for external validation set with different gaps at second‐order gave three peaks, namely, at 47, 60, (69, 70, 71) where the highest R2 (0.985) was obtained for the third peak having three consecutive gap segments.

Conclusion

Hence, math treatment (2, 70, 2, 1) was finalized considering stability where a high residual prediction deviation of 7.149 and a low bias of (0.021) was obtained. A paired t test and reliability test between predicted and laboratory values confirmed nonsignificant differences between them. Thus, the developed model is robust and precise and can be utilized in high throughput screening of wheat germplasm.

Significance and Novelty

Better performance at second derivative and higher gap can be used for developing robust models with low bias by avoiding multi‐collinearity, which is usually a limitation in multi‐variate analysis.