bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arthroscopically Assisted Reduction and Fixation of Acute Tillaux, Pilon, Bosworth, Talar, and Calcaneal Fractures: A Systematic Review
Authors: Giatroudakis Konstantinos , Iliopoulos Efthymios , Drosos Georgios , Tilkeridis Konstantinos , Ververidis Athanasios
Published: January 2025

Increased use of arthroscopically assisted techniques for the treatment of ankle fractures has been reported. Despite their rapid development, there is only one systematic review regarding arthroscopically assisted treatment of ankle fractures, in which, however, only malleolar fracture studies are included. Various other types of ankle fractures have also been treated with arthroscopically assisted procedures. The purpose of this review was to identify and evaluate the existing literature about arthroscopically assisted surgical management of other types of foot and ankle fractures, such as Tillaux, pilon, Bosworth, talar, and calcaneal fractures. A systematic review was conducted until December 2022 using the Arksey and O'Malley framework and reported according to the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). Three databases—PubMed, Elsevier Scopus, and Cochrane Library—were searched for relevant studies. The chosen studies were divided into groups according to the fracture type. Of the 424 initially identified studies, 36 were finally included in the review: 22 case reports or case series and 14 original retrospective cohort studies. Participant demographic characteristics; methods of arthroscopically assisted reduction and fixation; and clinical, radiologic, and patient-reported outcomes were extracted. Arthroscopically assisted techniques for the treatment of Tillaux, pilon, Bosworth, talar, and calcaneal fractures are effective procedures and have already shown satisfactory and promising clinical and radiologic outcomes. There are some limitations in their use though, especially in some specific fracture patterns. Long-term effects and possible superiority of arthroscopically assisted techniques over classic reduction and fixation must be further studied.
The 2021 Podiatric Residency Candidate and Program Virtual Interview Experience During COVID-19 with Multispecialty Reflections and Recommendations for a Successful Virtual Match: A 2024 Update
Authors: Meyr Andrew J. , Lowell Danae L. , Claffey Susan K. , North Moraith G. , Lombardi Charles
Published: January 2025

This objective of this communication is to provide an update from the Council of Teaching Hospitals (COTH) and the American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine (AACPM) with respect to the profession’s residency interview process, otherwise known as the Centralized Residency Interview Process (CRIP). During the 2022–2023 academic year, CRIP returned to an in-person format following a period of virtual interviews during the COVID-19 pandemic. Survey data since this change indicate that a large majority of residency program directors and student applicants prefer an in-person format to the residency interview process. This communication serves as an organizational update with respect to the residency interview process aimed at the profession, residency programs directors, and student applicants.
Artesunate, EDTA, and colistin work synergistically against MCR-negative and -positive colistin-resistant Salmonella
Authors: Zhai Yajun , Liu Peiyi , Hu Xueqin , Fan Changjian , Cui Xiaodie , He Qibiao , He Dandan , Ma Xiaoyuan , Hu Gongzheng
Published: January 2025

Discovering new strategies to combat the multidrug-resistant bacteria constitutes a major medical challenge of our time. Previously, artesunate (AS) has been reported to exert antibacterial enhancement activity in combination with β-lactam antibiotics via inhibition of the efflux pump AcrB. However, combination of AS and colistin (COL) revealed a weak synergistic effect against a limited number of strains, and few studies have further explored its possible mechanism of synergistic action. In this article, we found that AS and EDTA could strikingly enhance the antibacterial effects of COL against mcr-1- and mcr-1+ Salmonella strains either in vitro or in vivo, when used in triple combination. The excellent bacteriostatic effect was primarily related to the increased cell membrane damage, accumulation of toxic compounds and inhibition of MCR-1. The potential binding sites of AS to MCR-1 (THR283, SER284, and TYR287) were critical for its inhibition of MCR-1 activity. Additionally, we also demonstrated that the CheA of chemosensory system and virulence-related protein SpvD were critical for the bacteriostatic synergistic effects of the triple combination. Selectively targeting CheA, SpvD, or MCR using the natural compound AS could be further investigated as an attractive strategy for the treatment of Salmonella infection. Collectively, our work opens new avenues toward the potentiation of COL and reveals an alternative drug combination strategy to overcome COL-resistant bacterial infections.
The Impact of Maternal Education and Socioeconomic Status on Child Health Outcomes in Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Edidiongobong Usoro U.T , Ifesinachi Ehikwe, G. , Elo-Oghene Egwowa M. , Eshiemah Enioya, G. , Ijeoma U. Etukokwu , Cynthia Isuekebhor O. , Osita Chukwuneke M. , Ebuwa Ikponmwosa V. , Obinna Okolie C. , Kenneth Akpa N. , Precious Akhaine J.
Published: January 2025

The understanding of child health has significantly evolved over the years. Modern perspectives recognize that a healthy childhood is shaped by a complex interplay of factors—biological, social, environmental, and psychological. The study aimed to understand the impact of maternal education and socioeconomic status on child health. The study further sought to investigate the impact of maternal attitude and health practices on child health in a Nigeria context.  The study was conducted in the 21-bed sitter pediatric department of Irrua Specialist Teaching hospital, Irrua (ISTH), Edo state Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was employed from October 2023 to April 2024. A total of 60 questionnaires were distributed for collection of data. From the study, it was seen that all mothers have received various degree of literacy with majority (46.70%) of the women having gotten tertiary level of education and the least (16.70%) having primary level of education with 90% of the women displaying good knowledge. More of the women were middle income earners (60%) while just a few (20%) were high income earners. The study found a positive correlation between maternal attitudes and socio-demographic characteristics, with most women demonstrating favorable attitudes. These findings highlight the importance of maternal education and socioeconomic status in shaping child health outcomes, with potential implications for policy and intervention strategies. The relevance of this study will help all and sundry to step up in contributing their role in reducing children mortality and improve overall quality health care delivery.
Nutritive Effects of Calcium Carbonate (caco3) on Selected Commercial Traits of Mulberry Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.)
Authors: Rahman Md. Naymur , Nuziefa Tabassum Firdaus , Haque Md Fazlul , Mohanta Moni Krishno , Hasan Md Ariful
Published: January 2025

Silkworm (Bombyx mori) is the primary producer of silk. It has also been noted that minerals affect the quality of the silkworm. Calcium, a mineral with vital metabolic functions, might be involved in betterment of silkworms resulting in high quality silk production. Hence, this study was designed to evaluate the nutritive effects of Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) on silkworms and subsequent silk production. Immediately after the completion of the third instar stage of silkworm (crossbreed race - BSR-95/14(M)SL), they were divided into the control group and treated groups. Both the treatment and control groups were replicated thrice with 60 larvae each. Then, the effect of Calcium carbonate was studied at 4th and 5th instar larvae of silkworm. The treated and the control group of 4th and 5th instar larvae of silkworm was fed four times a day with Mulberry leaves either dipped into different concentrations of Calcium carbonate (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4% in distilled water) or dipped into distilled water only respectively. The results showed that the supplementation of Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) with Mulberry leaves resulted in significantly higher larval, egg, pupal, and cocoon characteristics compared to the control group. Among the different concentrations, 0.2% Calcium Carbonate supplementation showed the most valuable effect on silkworm. It can be concluded that enrichment of mulberry leaves with calcium carbonate is suitable for improvement of economic characteristics of silkworms, hence it might be suggested for usage in boosting farmers' yields.
Preparing Distribution Maps of Available Phosphorus in Soils Using Various GIS-based Spatial Interpolation Methods
Authors: Sahu Devid Kumar , Tagore G. S. , Sharma Y. M. , Kulhare P. S. , Sahu R. K. , Nema R.K.
Published: January 2025

The study, was conducted from January, 2022 to December, 2024 at Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidhyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482004), India. We have collected two thousand two hundred sixteen (2216) Global Positioning System (GPS) based soil samples from depth of 0–15 cm from farmer's field of the Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills zone of Madhya Pradesh, India. Laboratory analysis showed that the available P content ranged from 1.11 to 117.7 kg ha⁻¹ (mean: 10.64 kg ha⁻¹). Significant correlations were found between pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), and P (r = 0.073). The study aimed to identify the most suitable interpolation method for mapping available P in soils, employing three geo-statistical (Ordinary Kriging, Simple Kriging, and Empirical Bayesian Kriging) and three deterministic methods (Radial Basis Function, Local Polynomial Interpolation, and Inverse Distance Weighting), as well as two barrier-based methods (Kernel Smoothing and Diffusion Kernel). Geo-statistical results indicated OK (Box-Cox) spatial interpolation method for estimating available P distribution in soils that followed exponential model with ranges of 3652.22 meters, nugget values of 16.90 and a N/S ratio of 0.47 which showed moderate spatial dependency. Among the methods tested, Empirical Bayesian Kriging (EBK) provided the most accurate estimates of Olsen P distribution, followed by Ordinary Kriging (OK) and Simple Kriging with Box-Cox transformation.
Identification of Potential Candida albicans Inhibitors Through Pharmacophore Modeling and Virtual Screening Techniques
Authors: Ganiyou Adenidji , Kouassi Koffi Alexis Respect , Eugene Essoh Akpa , Robert N’Guessan Boka , Soleymane Kone
Published: January 2025

Fungal infections have increased significantly in recent years and represent a major threat to human health. A large number of these infections are caused by the opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. Lanosterol 14-alpha demethylase (CYP51), a critical enzyme in the cytochrome P450 family, is a well-established target for antifungal drugs. However, the development of resistance to current antifungal treatments has created an urgent need to develop new inhibitors that are more effective and less likely to promote the emergence of resistance in candida albicans. Azoles are a large and relatively new group of synthetic compounds, of which imidazoles and triazoles are two clinically useful families used in the treatment of systemic fungal infections.
In this study, we focused on Candida albicans and used the target protein (PDB code: 1EA1) to perform an In silico analysis of a series of benzimidazole derivatives. The aim was to identify novel chemotherapeutic agents with potential antifungal activity. To discover new Candida albicans inhibitors, pharmacophore models based on the molecular structure of benzimidazole derivatives were generated and validated using various methods. A virtual screening of the Enamine database containing 535,326 molecules was performed based on the combinatorial pharmacophore model. Compounds selected after virtual screening were subjected to molecular docking protocols (HTVS, SP, XP and IFD).
26 new compounds were identified and their absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) properties were calculated. These results suggest that the identified compounds could serve as promising chemical starting points for further structural optimisation in the development of Candida albicans inhibitors.
Effect of Curcumin on Cognitive Impairment in Aged Female Wistar Rats Subjected to Intestinal Ischemia-reperfusion Injury
Authors: Hammed Opeyemi Sodiq , Afolabi Oladele Ayobami , Ajike Richard Adedamola , Alabi Babatunde Adebola , Oyekunle Olubunmi Simeone , Saka Waidi Adeoye , Adedeji Janet Oreoluwa , Olusola Bamidele Oluwole , Ogunleye Olajumoke Deborah
Published: January 2025

Cognitive deficit, more common with age, it affects memory and cognitive functions. Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IIRI) causes systemic inflammation that can damage the brain, particularly the hippocampus. Curcumin, an active ingredient found in turmeric have neuroprotective properties. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of curcumin on intestinal ischemia reperfusion injury induced-cognitive deficit in aged female Wistar rats. Forty female Wistar rats between 200-250 kg were used in this study, they were weighed and randomly divided into four groups n=10. The animals pretreated with 100 mg/kg for twenty-one days prior to surgical induction of ischemia for two hours followed by reperfusion which lasted for twenty-one days. After twenty-one days, behavioral assessment was done to investigate the behavioral functions. Animals were sacrificed and the brain was harvested, the hippocampus was isolated for biochemical and histological assessment. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test with statistical significance set at p<0.05. The result shows that there was decrease in ability of the rats to recognize novel objects in IIRI groups but was improved curcumin treated groups. There was a reduction in the neurotransmitter level (AchE, Serotonin and Dopamine) in IIRI groups which was revered in the CUR+IIRI groups (p<0.001). Inflammatory markers (TNF-α, MPO) were also significantly reduced in CUR+IIRI group when compared to IIRI group (p<0.001). Histological assessment shows that curcumin preserved hippocampal architecture, whereby reducing IIRI-induced cognitive deficit in aged female Wistar rats. This study showed that curcumin demonstrates significant neuroprotective effects against IIRI-induced Cognitive deficit.
Isolation and Identification of Hydrocarbon-Degrading Bacteria from Diesel-Contaminated Soils
Authors: Tudararo-Aherobo L.E. , Osaide S.E.O.
Published: January 2025

Aim: To Isolate, screen and identify bacterial species with hydrocarbon biodegradative potentials from diesel-polluted soils using redox indicator (2% v/v of 2,6 – dichlorophenol indophenols- DCPIP) and Turbidity measurements.
Place and Duration of Study: Microbiology laboratory in the Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, between 2022 and 2024.
Methodology:  Soil samples from diesel-contaminated site were collected from diesel mechanic workshop, analysed using the spread plate isolation technique on Bushnell Haas mineral salt agar selective medium, were screened for Bacterial species with hydrocarbon degradative potential using the redox indicator (2% v/v of 2,6 – dichlorophenol indophenols- DCPIP) and Turbidity measurement. Selected Bacterial isolates were used for the hydrocarbon degradation studies, were characterized based on biochemical tests and identified with the aid of the Biolog database and 16S rRNA gene sequencing techniques.
Results:  Eight diesel degrading Bacteria species were identified, belonging to the following genera; Acinetobacter, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas. Among these, the four most potent degraders were identified as Acinetobacter rudis (M2712942.1), Acinetobacter bereziniae (MT111619.1), Pseudomonas koreensis (MW794239.1), and Klebsiella aerogenes (CP070520.1) and the % diesel reduction achieved in 15 days were; 70%, 48%, 47% and 45%, while the % Turbidity increase were 84%, 79%, 78% and 76% respectively. Consequently, the partial 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed the two most potent diesel degrading bacterial strains were Acinetobacter rudis and Acinetobacter bereziniae with 70% and and 48% respectively.
Conclusion:  These findings demonstrate the potential of indigenous bacteria for effective bioremediation of petroleum-contaminated environments. The study provides critical insights into sustainable solutions for mitigating hydrocarbon pollution, contributing to advancements in environmental microbiology and ecosystem restoration.
Comparative Three Years Field Study of Planting Material Generated Through Tissue Culture and Conventional Fasciculated Root of Safed Musli
Authors: Thounaojam A. S. , Patil G. B. , Patel K. V. , Prajapati R.
Published: January 2025

Aims: The present study was aimed to investigate comparison between conventional and tissue culture raised plantlets of safed musli at field condition.
Study Design: The experiment was laid out in completely randomized block design with 8 repetitions.
Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted during the kharif season for three consecutive years (2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21) at Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat.
Methodology: Uniform sizes of single sprouted fasciculated root and 30-35 days old secondary hardened plantlets were used as conventional planting materials and tissue culture raised plantlets respectively. Morpho-physiological parameters at 30, 60 and 90 days after transplanting and yield and quality attributing parameters were recorded after harvesting.
Results: The analysis of variance exhibited that significant difference among the planting materials during the individual years in most of the parameters. Conventional planting materials produced more vigorous growth behaviour in terms of leaves per plant, chlorophyll content and leaf area than tissue culture raised. Maximum number of fasciculated root per plant (13.72), length (9.43 cm), girth (2.70 cm), fresh (21.31 g) and dry (3.03 g) weight with greater dry recovery rate (14.99 %) and saponin content (2.16 %) was exhibited in conventional planting materials. The same planting materials were also registered higher survival rate (80.59 %) at field condition than tissue culture raised (59.38 %) planting material.
Conclusion: Therefore, it is suggested that conventional plating materials to be choose for safed musli cultivation in kharif season for greater survival and higher yield. There is a need to be strengthening the present in vitro protocol and acclimatization process of safed musli.
Navigating the Watershed: Challenges and Opportunities for Women's Empowerment in Rural Development
Authors: Dube Alok , Wason Monika , Satyapriya  , Sitaram  , Padaliya Neha , Ojha Pankaj
Published: January 2025

Women empowerment in rural development encompasses economic, social, human, and legal dimensions, aiming to enhance women's quality of life and capacity as agents of economic progress. This review evaluates women's empowerment within the context of watershed development programs implemented through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in India. Watershed initiatives focus on sustainable resource management, integrating participatory approaches to build community resilience and address socio-economic disparities. SHGs emerge as pivotal mechanisms, fostering social cohesion, enhancing financial literacy, and enabling women to engage in income-generating activities. However, systemic barriers—such as entrenched gender norms and limited institutional support—challenge their scalability and inclusivity. The study underscores the need for gender-sensitive policies, combining hard and soft adaptation strategies to maximize community engagement and equity. Highlighting successful SHG-driven models and participatory evaluation frameworks, this paper provides actionable insights to enhance women's roles in sustainable watershed governance and rural innovation systems.
Enhancing Academic Performance in a Rural Private Primary School: Addressing COVID-19 Disruptions and Long-Term Challenges
Authors: Chifamba Constance , Dlamini Christinah , Matshisela Aaronias , Masundulwani John , Sibanda Thembinkosi , Mahlangu Sipho
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to analyze the trends in academic performance, establish the possible causes of the poor academic performance, and explore and implement some mitigation strategies for 5 years. After observing a sharp decline in the Grade seven national examination pass rate at one rural Private Primary School, the Department of Education committed itself to work in collaboration with the school administrators and teachers to improve the pass rate. Several trips were made to the Primary school to establish rapport, assess their needs, and establish the contributing causes of the sharp decline in the pass rates. In-depth interviews were carried out with key informants. The major factors identified to be contributing to the decline in pass rates were low motivation among both students and teachers. In addition, inadequate resources; particularly educational materials and basic needs for teachers such as water and food were also identified. A strategic plan was formulated with goals projected for the coming 4 years. Regular visits to the school were made by the department of Education at least once every school term. Special training programs were done in the third term of each year in preparation for writing final exams. The teachers and students were incentivized by provision of basic needs such as water and food and other basic commodities. Other motivational promises were made, such as prizes for the best-performing students and teachers.   The results were recorded and compared every year. After the first year of implementing the strategies, there was a noticeable change in the academic performance. The pass rates were beginning to rise when COVID-19 pandemic broke out. The overall pass rate dropped from 42 % to 15% during the COVID-19 pandemic era. However, after the COVID-19 Pandemic the intervention strategies continued. Despite experiencing the drastic negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the graph of academic performance rose, there was a sharp rise from 33% in 2022 to 52% in 2023. The study recommends that a detailed longitudinal study be carried out to investigate the impact of other strategies (such as encouraging parental involvement). If these strategies carried out in this study are implemented coupled with other strategies such as parental involvement, this may result in marked improvements in academic performance of the learners and very high pass rates.
Multifunctional Phra Phrom‐like Graphene‐Based Membrane for Environmental Remediation and Resources Regeneration
Authors: Huang Tsung‐Han , Tian Xin‐Yuan , Chen Yi‐Yun , Widakdo Januar , Austria Hannah Faye M. , Setiawan Owen , Subrahmanya T. M. , Hung Wei‐Song , Wang Da‐Ming , Chang Ching‐Yuan , Wang Chih‐Feng , Hu Chien‐Chieh , Lin Chia‐Her , Lai Yu‐Lun , Lee Kueir‐Rarn , Lai Juin‐Yih
Published: October 2023

Water and energy shortages are interdependent major worldwide issues that cannot be disregarded. In this work, graphene and BaTiO3 are used to synergistically facilitate the self‐assembly of the β‐phase that is known to induce the piezoelectric properties of the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). This leads to a PVDF/graphene‐BaTiO3 nanocomposite with a unique capability of integrating Phra Phrom‐like four functions into one single asymmetric membrane: i) solar evaporation, ii) power generation, iii) piezo‐photodegradation, and iv) self‐cleaning/monitoring for environmental remediation and resources regeneration. The high heat accumulation capability and piezoelectric performance of the membrane enable it to simultaneously achieve a water production rate of 0.99 kgm−2h−1, in compliance with WHO standards, and a maximum power output of 5.73 Wm−2 in simulated natural environments. Upon subjecting the membranes to environmental cleaning, they not only show a 93% dye degradation rate due to the synergistic effect of piezoelectricity and photocatalysis but also resolve the membrane fouling issue, exhibiting ≈200% resistance change compared to the static state. The successful integration of these four functions into one membrane shows the great potential of this work toward a more sustainable and viable water and energy production approach.
Solution‐Doped Donor–Acceptor Copolymers Based on Diketopyrrolopyrrole and 3, 3′‐Bis (2‐(2‐(2‐Methoxyethoxy) Ethoxy) ethoxy)‐2, 2′‐Bithiophene Exhibiting Outstanding Thermoelectric Power Factors with p‐Dopants
Authors: Mukhopadhyaya Tushita , Wagner Justine , Lee Taein D. , Ganley Connor , Tanwar Swati , Raj Piyush , Li Lulin , Song Yunjia , Melvin Sophia J. , Ji Yuyang , Clancy Paulette , Barman Ishan , Thon Susanna , Klausen Rebekka S. , Katz Howard E.
Published: October 2023

The design of polymeric semiconductors exhibiting high electrical conductivity (σ) and thermoelectric power factor (PF) will be vital for flexible large‐area electronics. In this work, four polymers based on diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP), 2,3‐dihydrothieno[3,4‐b][1,4]dioxine (EDOT), thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (TT), and 3, 3′‐bis (2‐(2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy) ethoxy) ethoxy)‐2, 2′‐bithiophene (MEET) are investigated as side‐chains, with the MEET polymers newly synthesized for this study. These polymers are systematically doped with tetrafluorotetracyanoquinodimethane ( F4TCNQ), CF3SO3H, and the synthesized dopant Cp(CN)3‐(COOMe)3, differing in geometry and electron affinity. The DPP‐EDOT‐based polymer containing MEET as side‐chains exhibits the highest conductivity (σ) ≈700 S cm−1 in this series with the acidic dopant (CF3SO3H). This polymer also shows the lowest oxidation potential by cyclic voltammetry (CV), the strongest intermolecular interactions evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and has the most oxygen‐based functionality for possible hydrogen bonding and ionic screening. Other polymers exhibit high σ ≈300–500 S cm−1 and power factor up to 300 µW m−1 K−2. The mechanism of conductivity is predominantly electronic, as validated by time‐dependent conductance studies and transient thermo voltage monitoring over time, including for those doped with the acid. These materials maintain significant thermal stability and air stability over ≈6 weeks. Density functional theory calculations reveal molecular geometries and inform about frontier energy levels. Raman spectroscopy, in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy (SEM‐EDS) and x‐ray diffraction, provides insight into the solid‐state microstructure and degree of phase separation of the doped polymer films. Infrared spectroscopy enables this study to further quantify the degree of charge transfer from polymer to dopant.
Design and Analysis of POM‐Guanidine Compounds: Achieving Ultra‐High Single‐Crystal Proton Conduction
Authors: Wang Meng‐Meng , Cai Jun‐Jie , Lun Hui‐Jie , Lv Ming‐Guang , Zhang Jing‐Qi , Andra Swetha , Li Beibei , Dang Dong‐Bin , Bai Yan , Li Ya‐Min
Published: October 2023

The “visible” proton‐conducting pathway offers a distinct advantage for researching the mechanism of proton conducting materials at the molecular level and developing new materials. To achieve this, three crystalline materials are constructed via acid–base chemistry based on phosphomolybdic acid and diversfied guanidine, namely, (CN3H6)6(PMo12O40)2·H2O (GH–PMo12), (CN4H7)3(PMo12O40)·H2O (AGH–PMo12), and (CN5H8)3(PMo12O40)·3.5H2O (DAGH–PMo12). Proton conductivity of GH–PMo12 in the [001] direction reaches up to 0.19 S cm−1 at 85 °C and 98% RH, as elucidated by impedance studies of single crystals. The clear proton transport path is proposed through the analysis of single crystal structure. Moreover, impedance studies of powder crystals reveal that the proton conductivity of GH–PMo12 is higher than that of the other two compounds. The underlying reasons for this result are clarified through the analysis of the pKa, proton density, and spatial structure. Additionally, GH–PMo12 is fabricated into composite membrane with a peak proton conductivity of 5.31 × 10−2 S cm−1, which exhibits promising potential for real‐world applications.
An Electroconductive and Antibacterial Adhesive Nanocomposite Hydrogel for High‐Performance Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Zheng Wen , Yang Wenyue , Wei Wenlong , Liu Ziru , Tremblay Pier‐Luc , Zhang Tian
Published: October 2023

Multifunctional hydrogel adhesives inhibiting infections and enabling the electrical stimulation (ES) of tissue reparation are highly desirable for the healing of surgical wounds and other skin injuries. Herein, a therapeutic nanocomposite hydrogel is designed by integrating β‐cyclodextrin‐embedded Ag nanoparticles (CDAgNPs) in a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix enhanced with free β‐cyclodextrin (CD) and an atypical macromolecule made of β‐glucan grafted with hyaluronic acid (HAG). The main objective is to develop a biocompatible dressing combining the electroconductivity and antibacterial activity of CDAgNPs with the cohesiveness and porosity of PVA and the anti‐inflammatory, moisturizing, and cell proliferation‐promoting properties of HAG. The last component, CD, is added to strengthen the network structure of the hydrogel. PVA/CD/HAG/CDAgNP exhibited excellent adhesion strength, biocompatibility, electroconductivity, and antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacteria. In addition, the nanocomposite hydrogel has a swelling ratio and water retention capacity suitable to serve as a wound dressing. PVA/CD/HAG/CDAgNP promoted the proliferation of fibroblast in vitro, accelerated the healing of skin wounds in an animal model, and is hemostatic. Upon ES, the PVA/CD/HAG/CDAgNP nanocomposite hydrogel became more efficient both in vitro and in vivo further speeding up the skin healing process thus demonstrating its potential as a next‐generation electroconductive wound dressing.
Polyester Nanofiltration Membranes for Efficient Cations Separation
Authors: Li Jiapeng , Peng Huawen , Liu Kuankuan , Zhao Qiang
Published: October 2023

Polyester nanofiltration membranes highlight beneficial chlorine resistance, but their loose structures and negative charge result in poor cations retention precluding advanced use in cations separation. This work designs a new monomer (TET) containing “hydroxyl‐ammonium” entities that confer dense structures and positive charge to polyester nanofiltration membranes. The TET monomer undergoes efficient interfacial polymerization with the trimesoyl chloride (TMC) monomer, and the resultant TET‐TMC membranes feature one of the lowest molecular weight cut‐offs (389 Da) and the highest zeta potential (4 mv, pH: 7) among all polyester nanofiltration membranes. The MgCl2 rejection of the TET‐TMC membrane is 95.5%, significantly higher than state‐of‐the‐art polyester nanofiltration membranes (<50%). The Li+/Mg2+ separation performance of TET‐TMC membrane is on par with cutting‐edge polyamide membranes, while additionally, the membrane is stable against NaClO though polyamide membranes readily degrade. Thus the TET‐TMC is the first polyester nanofiltration membrane for efficient cations separation.
Unusual Ring Opening of Bicyclic Terpenes During Pd‐Catalyzed Coupling with Aromatic Halides
Authors: Shutovskaya Evgeniya S. , Ustimenko Yulia P. , Tkachev Alexey V. , Burykina Julia V. , Agafontsev Alexander M. , Lastovka Anastasiya V. , Polovyanenko Dmitriy N. , Sukhikh Taisiya S.
Published: October 2023

Herein we describe Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction of α‐pinene derivative – pinacarvone O‐methyl oxime (1) with aryl halides (2). Surprisingly, the formation of the C−C coupling product was accompanied by an unexpected opening of the pinene bicyclic structure. The (Z)‐2‐aryl‐4,4,5‐trimethylcyclohexa‐2,5‐dien‐1‐one O‐methyl oxime (3) was formed as the resulting product. The reaction conditions of the developed synthetic procedure were carefully optimized and the reaction mechanism was supposed on the basis of data obtained by structural and computational methods.
Research on Curving Acc System for Electric Vehicle Driven by In‐wheel Motors Based on Fmpc And Smc
Authors: Yang Mingfei , Tian Jie
Published: October 2023

In order to ensure the lateral stability of adaptive cruise control (ACC) vehicles during curve following, this paper proposes a hierarchical multi‐objective coordinated control ACC system structure for in‐wheel motor drive electric vehicles. Different control strategies are designed for the cruise mode and car‐following mode of the ACC system. A proportion integral differential (PID) controller is used to meet the need for speed control in cruise mode. For the car‐following mode, a multi‐objective ACC system distance control strategy is proposed considering the performance of car following, passenger comfort, driving safety and driving economy of ACC vehicles. The weight coefficients in the objective function are updated in real time by using the fuzzy model predictive control (FMPC) strategy to meet the needs of different road conditions and improve the driving economy. Then, the desired front wheel steering angle is obtained by preview control theory. According to the theory of sliding mode control (SMC), a lateral stability controller is designed to track the desired yaw rate and sideslip angle. Simulation results show that the electric vehicle driven by in‐wheel motors based on FMPC and SMC has better car‐following performance and lateral stability performance under variable curvature curved road conditions.
CAR Gene Delivery by T‐cell Targeted Lentiviral Vectors is Enhanced by Rapamycin Induced Reduction of Antiviral Mechanisms
Authors: Charitidis Filippos T , Adabi Elham , Ho Naphang , Braun Angela H , Tierney Ciara , Strasser Lisa , Thalheimer Frederic B , Childs Liam , Bones Jonathan , Clarke Colin , Buchholz Christian J
Published: October 2023

Lentiviral vectors (LV) have become the dominant tool for stable gene transfer into lymphocytes including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) gene delivery to T cells, a major breakthrough in cancer therapy. Yet, room for improvement remains, especially for the latest LV generations delivering genes selectively into T cell subtypes, a key requirement for in vivo CAR T cell generation. Toward improving gene transfer rates with these vectors, whole transcriptome analyses on human T lymphocytes are conducted after exposure to CAR‐encoding conventional vectors (VSV‐LV) and vectors targeted to CD8+ (CD8‐LV) or CD4+ T cells (CD4‐LV). Genes related to quiescence and antiviral restriction are found to be upregulated in CAR‐negative cells exposed to all types of LVs. Down‐modulation of various antiviral restriction factors, including the interferon‐induced transmembrane proteins (IFITMs) is achieved with rapamycin as verified by mass spectrometry (LC‐MS). Strikingly, rapamycin enhances transduction by up to 7‐fold for CD8‐LV and CD4‐LV without compromising CAR T cell activities but does not improve VSV‐LV. When administered to humanized mice, CD8‐LV results in higher rates of green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene delivery. Also in vivo CAR T cell generation is improved in kinetics and tumor control, however to a moderate extent, leaving room for improvement by optimizing the rapamycin administration schedule. The data favor multi‐omics approaches for improvements in gene delivery.
Advances in CAR‐Engineered Immune Cell Generation: Engineering Approaches and Sourcing Strategies
Authors: Chen Zhaozhao , Hu Yu , Mei Heng
Published: October 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapy has emerged as a highly efficacious treatment modality for refractory and relapsed hematopoietic malignancies in recent years. Furthermore, CAR technologies for cancer immunotherapy have expanded from CAR‐T to CAR‐natural killer cell (CAR‐NK), CAR‐cytokine‐induced killer cell (CAR‐CIK), and CAR‐macrophage (CAR‐MΦ) therapy. Nevertheless, the high cost and complex manufacturing processes of ex vivo generation of autologous CAR products have hampered broader application. There is an urgent need to develop an efficient and economical paradigm shift for exploring new sourcing strategies and engineering approaches toward generating CAR‐engineered immune cells to benefit cancer patients. Currently, researchers are actively investigating various strategies to optimize the preparation and sourcing of these potent immunotherapeutic agents. In this work, the latest research progress is summarized. Perspectives on the future of CAR‐engineered immune cell manufacturing are provided, and the engineering approaches, and diverse sources used for their development are focused upon.
SUCLG2 Regulates Mitochondrial Dysfunction through Succinylation in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Qifan , Xu Jing , Wang Lei , Yuan Yi , Luo Ruiguang , Gan Mingxi , Wang Keru , Zhao Tao , Wang Yawen , Han Tianyu , Wang Jian‐Bin
Published: October 2023

Mitochondrial dysfunction and abnormal energy metabolism are major features of cancer. However, the mechanisms underlying mitochondrial dysfunction during cancer progression are far from being clarified. Here, it is demonstrated that the expression level of succinyl‐coenzyme A (CoA) synthetase GDP‐forming subunit β (SUCLG2) can affect the overall succinylation of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells. Succinylome analysis shows that the deletion of SUCLG2 can upregulate the succinylation level of mitochondrial proteins and inhibits the function of key metabolic enzymes by reducing either enzymatic activity or protein stability, thus dampening mitochondrial function in LUAD cells. Interestingly, SUCLG2 itself is also succinylated on Lys93, and this succinylation enhances its protein stability, leading to the upregulation of SUCLG2 and promoting the proliferation and tumorigenesis of LUAD cells. Sirtuin 5 (SIRT5) desuccinylates SUCLG2 on Lys93, followed by tripartite motif‐containing protein 21 (TRIM21)‐mediated ubiquitination through K63‐linkage and degradation in the lysosome. The findings reveal a new role for SUCLG2 in mitochondrial dysfunction and clarify the mechanism of the succinylation‐mediated protein homeostasis of SUCLG2 in LUAD, thus providing a theoretical basis for developing anti‐cancer drugs targeting SUCLG2.
Importance of the Walden Inversion for the Activity Volcano Plot of Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Exner Kai S.
Published: October 2023

Since the birth of the computational hydrogen electrode approach, it is considered that activity trends of electrocatalysts in a homologous series can be quantified by the construction of volcano plots. This method aims to steer materials discovery by the identification of catalysts with an improved reaction kinetics, though evaluated by means of thermodynamic descriptors. The conventional approach for the volcano plot of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) relies on the assumption of the mononuclear mechanism, comprising the *OH, *O, and *OOH intermediates. In the present manuscript, two new mechanistic pathways, comprising the idea of the Walden inversion in that bond‐breaking and bond‐making occurs simultaneously, are factored into a potential‐dependent OER activity volcano plot. Surprisingly, it turns out that the Walden inversion plays an important role since the activity volcano is governed by mechanistic pathways comprising Walden steps rather than by the traditionally assumed reaction mechanisms under typical OER conditions.
Significant Roles of Surface Hydrides in Enhancing the Performance of Cu/BaTiO2.8H0.2 Catalyst for CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol
Authors: He Yang , Li Yuanyuan , Lei Ming , Polo‐Garzon Felipe , Perez‐Aguilar Jorge , Bare Simon R. , Formo Eric , Kim Hwangsun , Daemen Luke , Cheng Yongqiang , Hong Kunlun , Chi Miaofang , Jiang De‐en , Wu Zili
Published: October 2023

Tuning the anionic site of catalyst supports can impact reaction pathways by creating active sites on the support or influencing metal‐support interactions when using supported metal nanoparticles. This study focuses on CO2 hydrogenation over supported Cu nanoparticles, revealing a 3‐fold increase in methanol yield when replacing oxygen anions with hydrides in the perovskite support (Cu/BaTiO2.8H0.2 yields ~146 mg/h/gCu vs. Cu/BaTiO3 yields ~50 mg/h/gCu). The contrast suggests that significant roles are played by the support hydrides in the reaction. Temperature programmed reaction and isotopic labelling studies indicate that BaTiO2.8H0.2 surface hydride species follow a Mars van Krevelen mechanism in CO2 hydrogenation, promoting methanol production. High‐pressure steady‐state isotopic transient kinetic analysis (SSITKA) studies suggest that Cu/BaTiO2.8H0.2 possesses both a higher density and more active and selective sites for methanol production compared to Cu/BaTiO3. An operando high‐pressure diffuse reflectance infrared spectroscopy (DRIFTS)‐SSITKA study shows that formate species are the major surface intermediates over both catalysts, and the subsequent hydrogenation steps of formate are likely rate‐limiting. However, the catalytic reactivity of Cu/BaTiO2.8H0.2 towards the formate species is much higher than Cu/BaTiO3, likely due to the altered electronic structure of interface Cu sites by the hydrides in the support as validated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
A Magnetic Resonance Imaging‐Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (MRI‐CEST) Method for the Detection of Water Cycling across Cellular Membranes
Authors: Di Gregorio Enza , Papi Chiara , Conti Laura , Di Lorenzo Antonino , Cavallari Eleonora , Salvatore Marco , Cavaliere Carlo , Ferrauto Giuseppe , Aime Silvio
Published: October 2023

Water cycling across the membrane transporters is considered a hallmark of cellular metabolism and it could be of high diagnostic relevance in the characterization of tumors and other diseases. The method relies on the response of intracellular proton exchanging molecules to the presence of extracellular Gd‐based contrast agents (GBCAs). Paramagnetic GBCAs enhances the relaxation rate of water molecules in the extracellular compartment and, through membrane exchange, the relaxation enhancement is transferred to intracellular molecules. The effect is detected at the MRI‐CEST (Magnetic Resonance Imaging ‐ Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer) signal of intracellular proton exchanging molecules. The magnitude of the change in the CEST response reports on water cycling across the membrane. The method has been tested on Red Blood Cells and on orthotopic murine models of breast cancer with different degree of malignancy (4T1, TS/A and 168FARN). The distribution of voxels reporting on membrane permeability fits well with the cells’ aggressiveness and acts as an early reporter to monitor therapeutic treatments.
Green synthesized AgNPs, CuONPs, and Ag‐CuO NCs to effective antibiofilm activities and their potential application in aquaculture
Authors: Manikandan Dinesh Babu , Arumugam Manikandan , Abdul Ubais , Sridhar Arun , Abdul Kari Zulhisyam , Téllez‐Isaías Guillermo , Ramasamy Thirumurugan
Published: October 2023

The expanded emergence of drug‐resistant microbes remains a concern to the scientific community in developing effective therapeutics. Approach of green chemistry based nanomaterials fabrication is in high demand, due to biocompatibility, non‐toxic, and high surface area that adheres more biomolecules on surface. Green fabricated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs), and silver–copper oxide nanocomposites (Ag‐CuO NCs) were characterized by fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), and thermogravimetric (TG)/differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. Antibiofilm potential of green fabricated AgNPs, CuONPs, and Ag‐CuO NCs was tested against aquatic pathogenic microorganisms such as Aeromonas hydrophila, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. This present study deals with bacterial growth rate, biofilm inhibition, and antibiofilm architecture of AgNPs, CuONPs, and Ag‐CuO NCs under the visualization of confocal laser scanning electron microscopy (CLSM). The FE‐SEM technique was used to observe dense and compact structure (control without NPs treatment) with treatment of NPs that showed reduced amount of cell population in A. hydrophila, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus. The effective antibiofilm inhibition of Ag‐CuO NCs was achieved by reducing micro‐colonies compared with AgNPs and CuONPs. The AgNPs, CuONPs, and Ag‐CuO NCs demonstrated antibiofilm properties against Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria, indicating a combinatorial effect of green fabricated NPs in combination with plant metabolites against pathogenic bacteria. As a result, aforementioned nano‐product merits further investigation in order to be used as a potent adjuvant therapy as antagonistic toward various bacterial diseases in aquaculture.
Recyclable porous polyurethane sponge for highly efficient oil–water separation
Authors: Li Jiwei , Xu Pengfei , Guo Jiankui , Luo Yangyang , Shao Linjun , Xing Guiying , Qi Chenze
Published: October 2023

Oil spills and chemical leakages have caused severe environmental problems. Physical absorption of the spilled oils and chemical reagents by absorbing materials is an efficient and economical approach to solve these problems. Herein, we have prepared a porous thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) sponge by combining the thermally induced phase separation method with the selective dissolution of water‐soluble PEG components. The selective removal of PEG components from the walls of TPU sponges could increase the intensities of free volume holes and surface areas of TPU sponges. The content of free volume holes and surface areas of TPU sponge reached its maximum with the TPU/PEG ratio of 1:1. The increased roughness could improve the absorption capacities of TPU sponges for various oils/organic solvents. Moreover, due to its excellent compressibility, this TPU sponge could be reused 20 times with little loss of saturated absorption capacity. In addition, this TPU sponge exhibited excellent separation ability for the toluene from the toluene/water mixture and emulsion. In all, we have developed a facile method to prepare TPU sponge absorbent with excellent absorption performance, which holds great potential in the application of large‐scale oil/water separation.
Enantioselective and Chemoselective Optical Detection of Chiral Organic Compounds without Resorting to Chromatography
Authors: Bhushan Ravi
Published: October 2023

Enantiorecognition and resolution are of essential importance in many diverse areas of science. Whenever there arises a need to analyze/investigate enantiomers in different situations chromatography stands up in our minds immediately. Nevertheless, chemoselective and enantioselective recognition/discrimination (without going for separation) constitutes a different perception and requirement. The techniques using chiroptical sensing cause detection based on molecular interactions induced in different manners. Enantioselective sensing of monosaccharides in γ‐cyclodextrin assembly and by diboronic acid based fluorescent sensors, application of bi‐naphthol and H8BINOL based sensors and dendrimers, metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer transitions in CD, exciton‐coupled circular dichroism, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy, and enantioselective indicator displacement sensor arrays for enantioselective recognition/detection of chiral organic compounds, such as amines, amino acids/alcohols, and hydroxycarboxylic acids have been discussed in progressive manner with mechanistic explanations, wherever available. Besides, the chiroptical vs LC approach has been discussed. The present paper is focused on certain different non‐chromatographic optical techniques and aims to extend an understanding and a view to consider such techniques which have been successful in selective detection, and determination of absolute configuration and enantiomeric excess, (without resorting to separation vis‐à‐vis LC) and that have potential use in high‐throughput chiral assay and combinatorial search for asymmetric catalysts and reagents.