bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copper Ion Adsorption in Waste Water Using Silver Metal Nanocomposite from Avocado Pear Seed
Authors: Okwuchukwu Ofoma Echezona , Eunice Ekpunobi Uche , Moses Ekeoma , Princewill Okeke Abuchi
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the adsorption potential of silver nanocomposite synthesized from avocado pear seed for the removal of copper (II) ions from aqueous solutions. The agro waste underwent treatment processes such as chemical, physical and hydrothermal synthesis giving rise to a nanocomposite with an enhanced surface area, structure and functional groups. In the investigation of the adsorption capacity of copper (II) ions, numerous factors were examined, including pH, concentration, dose, temperature, and contact time. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) was used to investigate the equilibrium kinetics and thermodynamics for the adsorption. The ability of copper ion uptake by the nanocomposite was examined under the characterization study of FTIR, SEM, and XRD. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models were employed to the experimental data and the goodness of their fit for adsorption was compared. It was determined that the Langmuir adsorption model provided a better fit compared to the Freundlich model.
Pathogenic Susceptibility of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) to Twelve Isolates of Colletotrichum sp Present on Six Weeds in Cashew Orchards in Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Aboulaye Traoré , Sibirina Soro , R. E. Ayémou Alloua , Arsène Soro N. , Karidia Traoré-Ouattara , Daouda Koné
Published: January 2025

Cashew nuts are one of the agricultural products that contribute significantly to Côte d'Ivoire's economic development. However, cashew nut production in Côte d'Ivoire is threatened by anthracnose. Reducing anthracnose proliferation factors could reduce its impact on cashew trees. The aim of the study was to assess the virulence of Colletotrichum sp. isolated from weeds in cashew trees. It assessed the pathogenicity of 12 isolates of Colletotrichum sp.  extracted from six weeds on cashew plants. The inocula were prepared by scraping the mycelium of each fungus in 10 ml of sterile distilled water. The spore suspension was collected and calibrated at 4.6.106 conidia/ml using a Malassez cell. This suspension was applied by spraying to the leaves of 30-day-old cashew plants. The parameters assessed were symptom incidence and severity index. All isolates tested induced symptoms characteristic of anthracnose on cashew plants. There was a significant difference between isolates in terms of their virulence. The highest incidence of 90% was obtained on plants inoculated with the ColE2 isolate and the lowest incidence of 30% was obtained on plants inoculated with the ColN3 isolate. The highest severity index of 7.66 was obtained on plants inoculated with the ColE3 isolate and the lowest severity index of 2.00 was obtained on plants inoculated with the ColN3 isolate. These results show that Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe), Vitellaria paradoxa (G), Micuna pruriens (L.), Blighia sapida (K. Koenig), Albizia zygia (DC) and Pterocarpus erinaceus (Poir) are hosts of anthracnose in cashew orchards in Côte d'Ivoire. Their integration into cashew pathogen control strategies is necessary.
Evaluation of Macronutrients, Functional Properties of Composite Flour and Sensory Properties of the Developed Biscuits
Authors: Adesola Deniran, Igbagboyemi , Bukola Omitola, Azeezat , Olubunmi Akindele Olubukola , Adedoyin Ogundele Asisat , Olubunmi Balogun Olanike , Omotola Fawole Abisola , Oluwatoyin Ogunlakin Grace
Published: January 2025

Aim: This study evaluated the macronutrients, functional properties of composite flour and sensory properties of biscuits made from the blends of composite flour.
Study Design: This study is an experimental study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Nigeria.
Methods: African yam bean seeds and bambara groundnut were sorted, soaked, dehulled, dried, milled and sieved while soybeans were boiled after the unit operation. 70: 30% was used for composite flour while 100% wheat flour was used as control. Proximate composition and functional properties were determined on formulated flour, physical and sensory attributes were evaluated on biscuits. Data obtained were statistically analyzed by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (p<0.05) at 5% level of significance.
Results: The results obtained for moisture, ash, protein, fat, fiber and carbohydrate for the composite flour ranged from 7.827 to 10.234%, 1.529 to 2.415%, 12.101 to 18.092%, 0.501 to 1.035%, 1.939 to 2.488% and 68.142 to 73.697% respectively. Functional properties of flour: bulk density, water absorption capacity, solubility and swelling capacity ranged from 0.55 to 0.620%, 2.308 to 3.024%, 2.323 to 2.697% and 6.836 to 7.448%, respectively. Biscuits made from 70% wheat flour + 30% African yam bean had the highest general acceptability score (7.75±0.716).
Conclusion: The incorporation of soybean, bambara groundnut and African yam bean flour in biscuits production increased the nutritional composition of biscuits.
An Impact Analysis of Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP): A Case Study in Baramulla District of Jammu & Kashmir
Authors: K V Balaji Nithin Gowda , Saraf Sajad. A. , J Prashanth
Published: January 2025

The study aims to evaluate the impact of the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) in Baramulla District, Jammu & Kashmir, focusing on agricultural productivity, and socio-economic benefits for local communities. In the current study, the Rafiabad area was selected as Kashmir’s first IWMP (Integrated Watershed Management Programme) was implemented in 2011-12. A multi-stage random sampling design was used for sample collection. Accordingly, 100 beneficiary samples/ respondents were selected randomly from the 13 villages, respectively. Considering the non-beneficiary respondents to be 25 per cent of the beneficiary respondents, i.e., 25 non-beneficiary farmers were selected randomly from the neighbouring villages where the IWMP project is not implemented for the comparative study which makes a way to find out the difference between the watershed and non-watershed implemented villages, respectively making it a total of 125 respondents. The three main characteristics of the watershed development methods are, supporting rural economic growth, creating jobs, and restoring ecological equilibrium. The cultivated area, production, and productivity of major crops showed a significant change in the post-IWMP scenario in relation to the pre-IWMP conditions. The project helped increase in majority of the farm and livestock inventories. The cropping intensity among the beneficiaries in the present scenario is 151.36 per cent against the pre-IWMP levels of 116.54 per cent and 110.68 per cent among the non-beneficiaries which depicts the positive development in the cropping pattern among the beneficiary farmers. There was a 34.70 per cent surge in employment among the beneficiaries against the pre-IWMP levels and it was also found that presently, the employment was 9.08 per cent higher among the beneficiaries compared to non-beneficiaries which shows the prominence of the IWMP project.
Seasonal Occurrence of Major Pests of Sarpagandha in Mild Tropical Plain Zone of Arunachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Chanu N.Y. , Devi N. Surmina , Meena A.K. , Akoijam Romila , Rajkhowa Denisha , K.M. Ajaykumara , Ngomle S.
Published: January 2025

Sarpagandha [Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. Ex Kurz], a critically endangered perennial medicinal plant, well known for its bioactive compound reserpine is infested by two major pests, scale insect, Saissetia coffeae (Walker) and mite, Tetranychus ludeni Zacher; reporting for the first time from the mild tropical plain zone of Arunachal Pradesh. During the period of study for two consecutive years (2021 and 2022) the two pests remained active throughout the year. Maximum population of S. coffeae and T. ludeni was recorded during January-February and July-August respectively. The population of scale insect showed a significant negative correlation with the mean atmospheric temperature (r= -0.673 and r= -0.749) and total rainfall (r= -0.778 and r= -0.684) during both the years. Throughout the study period, the mite population exhibited a significant negative correlation with total rainfall (r= -0.770 and r= -0.798).
In silico Design and Validation of CRISPR/Cas9 gRNAs for Enhancing Drought Tolerance and Yield in Rice
Authors: S Shafana , Pappachan Kripa , P.S Abida , Arpita Acharya , Bhavya G , C.J Melna Mary
Published: January 2025

Rice is a staple food crop globally, and its yield is significantly impacted by drought, posing a threat to food security. Several genes have been implicated in drought response and yield regulation, which can be targeted using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing techniques to develop improved rice cultivars. This study aimed to design guide RNAs (gRNAs) for drought-responsive and yield-determining genes in rice, including flavanone 3-hydroxylase-1 (OsF3H-1), chalcone synthase 31 (OsCHS31), nodulin/SWEET12 (OsSWEET12), MYB47, and OsKALA3, utilizing bioinformatics tools. Genome sequences were retrieved from the Rice Genome Annotation Project (RGAP) and the Rice Annotation Project Database (RAP-DB). Optimal gRNAs were designed using the CRISPR-P v2 tool and evaluated based on parameters such as GC content, off-target score, on-target score, and genome location. The structural stability of the selected gRNAs was validated using the Mathews Lab RNA secondary structure prediction tool. Most gRNAs, except those targeting OsF3H-1, exhibited low self-folding probabilities and energy levels within acceptable ranges, indicating favorable structural stability. However, the OsF3H-1 gRNAs demonstrated higher susceptibility to self-folding, requiring further refinement. The designed gRNAs provide a strong foundation for future CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing experiments. These findings pave the way for engineering rice to develop stress-resilient and high-yielding varieties, contributing to enhanced agricultural sustainability and global food security.
The Science of Bloom: A Review on Exploring the Photoperiod Responsive Flowering Pathway
Authors: Saha Soumyanetra , Rana V. B. , Modha Kaushal , Patel R. K.
Published: January 2025

Different plant species have evolved distinct needs for endogenous and external stimuli to trigger flowering. These disparate requirements were initially believed to be the result of various molecular pathways. Cultivars must precisely modify flowering times based on local photoperiod and environmental factors to guarantee that crops sustain excellent yields in a variety of latitudes. The molecular mechanisms by which phytochromes regulate photoperiodic blooming are not entirely known, despite the fact that they have been proven to be involved in photoperiodic flowering in numerous plants. Although the underlying molecular mechanisms differ between species, phytochromes play a critical role in controlling flowering in many plants. Surprisingly, a large number of photoperiod-affected processes use comparable gene networks to adapt to variations in the duration of light/dark cycles. In this review, we have concentrated on photoperiod-influenced developmental processes that have similar gene regulation networks.
Optimizing Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) for Enhanced Growth and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Under Irrigated Conditions
Authors: Zala Dashrthbhai A , Dadarwal Ram Swaroop , Jat Ram Dhan , Prakash Ram , Asif Mo , Kavita
Published: January 2025

A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2021-22 at the Agronomy Research Farm, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design with three replications. This study attempts to examine how Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) affects chickpea growth, yield and productivity. Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) is a sustainable farming method that improves soil fertility, crop output, and quality by combining biofertilizers, organic and inorganic fertilisers, and other nutrient sources. In addition to providing the necessary plant nutrients, the use of vermicompost as an organic source and biofertilizers such as Rhizobium and PSB (Phosphate Solubilising Bacteria) as living sources in conjunction with inorganic fertilisers has improved the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the soil and contributed to environmental and soil sustainability. The treatments were as follows: T1: control, T2: 100% RDF (18:48:0 kg ha⁻¹), T3: 100% vermicompost (3.00 t ha⁻¹), T4: 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost (0.75 t ha⁻¹), T5: 50% RDF + 50% vermicompost (1.5 t ha⁻¹), T6: 25% RDF + 75% vermicompost (2.25 t ha⁻¹), T7: 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost (0.75 t ha⁻¹) + biofertilizers (Rhizobium + PSB), T8: 50% RDF + 50% vermicompost (1.5 t ha⁻¹) + biofertilizers (Rhizobium + PSB), and T9: 25% RDF + 75% vermicompost (2.25 t ha⁻¹) + biofertilizers (Rhizobium + PSB). The results indicated that the application of 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost (0.75 t ha⁻¹) combined with biofertilizers (Rhizobium + PSB) yielded the highest growth attributes, such as plant height (37.5 cm and 77.5 cm at 60 and 120 DAS, respectively) and dry matter accumulation (2.6 g/plant and 21.7 g/plant at 60 and 120 DAS, respectively). This treatment also showed the highest yield attributes, including the number of branches per plant (7.4), number of pods per branch (53.8), number of seeds per pod (2.0), and test weight (14.8 g). The highest grain yield, biological yield, straw yield, gross return and B:C ratio were recorded under the 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost (0.75 t ha⁻¹) + biofertilizers (Rhizobium + PSB) treatment, followed by the 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost (0.75 t ha⁻¹) and 100% RDF (18:48:0 kg ha⁻¹) treatments. The control treatment produced the lowest grain yield (1395 kg ha⁻¹). The maximum harvest index (45%) was observed in the treatment with 100% vermicompost (3.00 t ha⁻¹). The study highlights that the treatment of 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost (0.75 t ha⁻¹) combined with biofertilizers significantly improved growth attributes and yield components of chickpea. This finding underscores the role of INM in sustainable intensification of chickpea production. (*RDF; Recommended Dose of Fertilizer, *PSB; Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria.).
Simulation Study Based on the Influencing Factors of Vibrating Screen Screening Efficiency
Authors: Kaiqin Hu
Published: January 2025

Based on the vibrating screening simulation technology is an efficient technology to carry out research on sieving theory and sieving mechanism, which plays an irreplaceable role in promoting the rapid development of vibrating screen, the existing research direction of vibrating screening technology is introduced, the current status of research on the simulation method of the factors affecting the sieving effect in the vibrating sieving process and the current status of the application is elaborated, and the conclusions are summarized, and finally it is pointed out that the vibrating screen sieving efficiency simulation The future development direction of the research is: the combination of simulation technology and artificial intelligence, big data and other technologies will further promote the intelligent development of screening technology. The opportunities and challenges are: the simulation software will continue to improve, providing a more friendly user interface and more powerful computing power. Artificial intelligence technology will provide new solutions for parameter calibration, model simplification and result analysis.
Value Addition in Green Peas by Drying under Fluidized Bed Drying
Authors: Senapati Ashok K , Raj D. , Narwade A.V. , Singh M. , Varshney A K
Published: January 2025

India's diverse climatic conditions provide advantages for the production of fruits and vegetables, ensuring year-round availability of various fresh produce. Pisum sativum (peas), a significant vegetable crop in India, contributes approximately 2.5% (3.86 million MT) to total vegetable production and accounts for 4.6% of the vegetable-growing area (NHB, 2014). However, due to their high moisture content, peas cannot be stored for extended periods and require preservation methods such as freezing, canning, cold storage, or drying (Chauhan and Srivastava, 2009).
This study evaluates fluidized bed drying of green peas as a preservation method to enhance farmers' income, particularly in Gujarat. The investigation included two pre-treatments (unblanched and blanched), three bed heights (20, 40, and 60 mm), and three drying air temperatures (45°C, 55°C, and 65°C). Mature, fresh green peas were manually deshelled, blanched at 85°C for 1 minute, cooled under running water, and surface moisture was removed before drying.
Results revealed that drying occurred entirely in the falling rate period, with the overall drying rate ranging from 0.0053 to 0.0158 kg water/kg dry matter/min. The maximum drying rate (0.0158 kg water/kg dry matter/min) was observed with the blanched sample at a bed height of 20 mm and 65°C. The highest protein content (17.87 g/100g) was recorded at 45°C, similar to 55°C (17.85 g/100g). The highest chlorophyll content (106.98 mg/100g) was observed in blanched samples dried at 40 mm bed height and 45°C, comparable to 55°C (106.68 mg/100g). The highest rehydration ratio (3.53) was achieved in blanched samples at 40 mm bed height and 55°C.
It is concluded that blanching green peas at 85°C for 1 minute, followed by fluidized bed drying at 40 mm bed height and dry air temperature at 55°C, produces high-quality dried peas with good qualities.
Climate Smart Agriculture: Learning Experiences from Indigenous Communities in Arid Region of Rajasthan, India
Authors: Sharma Shirish , Meena V. S. , P.C Ranjith
Published: January 2025

Climate change directly affects arid region farming community’s economy, due to heavy dependence of the agricultural sector on climate in India. A decrease of rainfall1s2 and rise in temperature has been increasing the exposure of the whole community to frequent droughts. This study examined arid region farmers’ perception about climate change. Therefore, how farmers view climate change has a significant impact on how they comprehend and manage risks and uncertainties brought on by the phenomenon, as well as how they implement certain strategies to lessen the negative effects of climate change on conventional agriculture. The study was carried out in the climate change-vulnerable Bikaner western district of Rajasthan, India. For the objective of the study, both primary and secondary data were employed. The multistage sampling methods were employed to select farmers in western district of Rajasthan.  The study sample comprised of 200 farmers selected randomly. Our findings showed that farmers have high level of perception about the distribution of rainfall, rise in temperature, increase in frequency of heat waves and droughts in the region. Further climate adaptation measures, farmers resorted to heat tolerant varieties and water conservation techniques. Furthermore, some of the main obstacles to climate adaptation in the area were a lack of information, a lack of institutional credit, ill-defined property rights, and inadequate infrastructure. Numerous superstitious practices and cultural, societal, and religious beliefs related to weather prediction have persisted for decades. Farmers have used these beliefs and practices to forecast the weather for ages. Therefore, to improve farmers' perceptions of climate change and to promote climate wise agriculture, a suitable policy framework and targeted programs for sustainable agriculture growth are required.
Agentive and Independent Older Female Adult in Strong Woman Gang Nam-Soon: Going Against Prevalent Gendered Ageism in K-Dramas
Authors: Chandra Yuliyanto
Published: January 2025

This article explores the representation of an older female adult (OFA) in the Korean drama Strong Woman Gang Nam-Soon. While scholarship on OFA has revealed their lack of positive representation—resulting in multifarious detriments—literature on OFA in K-drama is considerably scanty. Hence, this article employs content analysis, focusing on one of the protagonists, Gil Jung-Gan. Additionally, to enrich the discussion, industrial analysis was also carried out. The critical discussion focuses on three major aspects: 1) the feminist perspective influencing the K-drama industry, 2) principles of agentive and powerful OFA character, and 3) beauty and successful aging discourse. This article argues that the positive representation of Gil Jung-Gan is the manifestation of the progressive movement and influence of local and global feminism, which can be traced through the fulfillment of the majority of the principles. Additionally, the series incorporates successful aging discourse to represent Gil Jung-Gan as an agentive and non-traditional OFA, which is achieved mainly by physical appearance and social engagement.
Narratives of Male Struggle Against Patriarchy in Select Filipino Literary Works
Authors: Canibel Jhec Aldrei , Gelbolingo Alyssa Amor , Montañez Ma. Cristilina A.
Published: January 2025

This study offers a more nuanced understanding of the impacts of patriarchy by exploring its complexities and effects beyond commonly held beliefs about gender roles. Using an inductive thematic analysis grounded in Braun and Clarke's framework, five Filipino literary works were examined to identify themes related to male struggles within a patriarchal society. The analysis revealed that men who fail to conform to patriarchal norms of masculinity find themselves at odds with the rigid standards of hegemonic masculinity. Their struggles against conformity and the limitations patriarchy imposes extend far beyond personal lives, gradually affecting society at large. These findings suggest that it is imperative for individuals of all genders to unite in collective efforts to dismantle a system that disproportionately privileges only those men narrowly defined as "true." Ultimately, such a system disadvantages those who fail to meet patriarchal standards of masculinity.
Enhancing Propylene Glycol Product Yield by Modifying the Glycerol Hydrogenation Process
Authors: Syahidah Aisyah Sabrina Nurul , Vania Marsha , Aulia Najmanisa , Hidayah Nurul , Varado Isaac
Published: January 2025

The production of propylene glycol from glycerol is an emerging and sustainable approach in the chemical industry that can be considered completely renewable. Glycerol, a byproduct of biodiesel production, has gained attention as an alternative feedstock for the synthesis of value-added chemicals such as propylene glycol. This paper evaluates how to perform process modification for optimization of propylene glycol product yield. The process modification was carried out by adding compressor unit before entering a heater, adding heater unit before entering a mixer, and adding 2 separator unit before entering a distillation column. By modifying the addition of compressor unit, heater unit, and 2 separator unit, it has been proven that it can optimizing the propylene glycol product yield by up to 99.75%. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by Universitas Diponegoro and BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Hearing Impairment and Allostatic Load in Older Adults
Authors: Du Eric Y. , Jiang Kening , Carlson Michelle C. , Reed Nicholas S. , Deal Jennifer A.
Published: May 2023

Importance

Allostatic load, the cumulative strain that results from the chronic stress response, is associated with poor health outcomes. Increased cognitive load and impaired communication associated with hearing loss could potentially be associated with higher allostatic load, but few studies to date have quantified this association.

Objective

To investigate if audiometric hearing loss is associated with allostatic load and evaluate if the association varies by demographic factors.

Design, Setting, Participants

This cross-sectional survey used nationally representative data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Audiometric testing was conducted from 2003 to 2004 (ages 20-69 years) and 2009 to 2010 (70 years or older). The study was restricted to participants aged 50 years or older, and the analysis was stratified based on cycle. The data were analyzed between October 2021 and October 2022.

Exposure

A 4-frequency (0.5-4.0 kHz) pure tone average was calculated in the better-hearing ear and modeled continuously and categorically (<25 dB hearing level [dB HL], no hearing loss; 26-40 dB HL, mild hearing loss; ≥41 dB HL, moderate or greater hearing loss).

Main Outcome and Measures

Allostatic load score (ALS) was defined using laboratory measurements of 8 biomarkers (systolic/diastolic blood pressure, body mass index [calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared], and total serum and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glycohemoglobin, albumin, and C-reactive protein levels). Each biomarker was assigned a point if it was in the highest risk quartile based on statistical distribution and then summed to yield the ALS (range, 0-8). Linear regression models adjusted for demographic and clinical covariates. Sensitivity analysis included using clinical cut points for ALS and subgroup stratification.

Results

In 1412 participants (mean [SD] age, 59.7 [5.9] years; 293 women [51.9%]; 130 [23.0%] Hispanic, 89 [15.8%] non-Hispanic Black, and 318 [55.3%] non-Hispanic White individuals), a modest association was suggested between hearing loss and ALS (ages 50-69 years: β = 0.19 [95% CI, 0.02-0.36] per 10 dB HL; 70 years or older: β = 0.10 [95% CI, 0.02-0.18] per 10 dB HL) among non–hearing aid users. Results were not clearly reflected in the sensitivity analysis with clinical cut points for ALS or modeling hearing loss categorically. Sex-based stratifications identified a stronger association among male individuals (men 70 years or older: β = 0.22 [95% CI, 0.12-0.32] per 10 dB HL; women: β = 0.08 [95% CI, −0.04 to 0.20] per 10 dB HL).

Conclusion and Relevance

The study findings did not clearly support an association between hearing loss and ALS. While hearing loss has been shown to be associated with increased risk for numerous health comorbidities, its association with the chronic stress response and allostasis may be less than that of other health conditions.
Characterization of 405B8H3(D‐E), a newly engineered high affinity chimeric LAG‐3 antibody with potent antitumor activity
Authors: Lan Xiaoxuan , Yang Teddy Tat Chi , Wang Yinghui , Qu Baoyuan , Rong Shaofeng , Song Ningning
Published: May 2023

Lymphocyte activation gene‐3 (LAG‐3) is a type I transmembrane protein with structural similarities to CD4. Overexpression of LAG‐3 enables cancer cells to escape immune surveillance, while its blockade reinvigorates exhausted T cells and strengthens anti‐infection immunity. Blockade of LAG‐3 may have antitumor effects. Here, we generated a novel anti‐LAG‐3 chimeric antibody, 405B8H3(D‐E), through hybridoma technology from monoclonal antibodies produced in mice. The heavy‐chain variable region of the selected mouse antibody was grafted onto a human IgG4 scaffold, while a modified light‐chain variable region was coupled to the human kappa light‐chain constant region. 405B8H3(D‐E) could effectively bind LAG‐3‐expressing HEK293 cells. Moreover, it could bind cynomolgus monkey (cyno) LAG‐3 expressed on HEK293 cells with a higher affinity than the reference anti‐LAG‐3 antibody BMS‐986016. Furthermore, 405B8H3(D‐E) promoted interleukin‐2 secretion and was able to block the interactions of LAG‐3 with liver sinusoidal endothelial cell lectin and major histocompatibility complex II molecules. Finally, 405B8H3(D‐E) combined with anti‐mPD‐1‐antibody showed effective therapeutic potential in the MC38 tumor mouse model. Therefore, 405B8H3(D‐E) is likely to be a promising candidate therapeutic antibody for immunotherapy.
Toughening CO2‐Derived Copolymer Elastomers Through Ionomer Networking
Authors: Poon Kam C. , Gregory Georgina L. , Sulley Gregory S. , Vidal Fernando , Williams Charlotte K.
Published: May 2023

Utilizing carbon dioxide (CO2) to make polycarbonates through the ring‐opening copolymerization (ROCOP) of CO2 and epoxides valorizes and recycles CO2 and reduces pollution in polymer manufacturing. Recent developments in catalysis provide access to polycarbonates with well‐defined structures and allow for copolymerization with biomass‐derived monomers; however, the resulting material properties are underinvestigated. Here, new types of CO2‐derived thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are described together with a generally applicable method to augment tensile mechanical strength and Young's modulus without requiring material re‐design. These TPEs combine high glass transition temperature (Tg) amorphous blocks comprising CO2‐derived poly(carbonates) (A‐block), with low Tg poly(ε‐decalactone), from castor oil, (B‐block) in ABA structures. The poly(carbonate) blocks are selectively functionalized with metal‐carboxylates where the metals are Na(I), Mg(II), Ca(II), Zn(II) and Al(III). The colorless polymers, featuring <1 wt% metal, show tunable thermal (Tg), and mechanical (elongation at break, elasticity, creep‐resistance) properties. The best elastomers show >50‐fold higher Young's modulus and 21‐times greater tensile strength, without compromise to elastic recovery, compared with the starting block polymers. They have wide operating temperatures (−20 to 200 °C), high creep‐resistance and yet remain recyclable. In the future, these materials may substitute high‐volume petrochemical elastomers and be utilized in high‐growth fields like medicine, robotics, and electronics.
Hetero‐Anionic Structure Activated CoS Bonds Promote Oxygen Electrocatalytic Activity for High‐Efficiency Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Cai Jingjing , Zhang Huijian , Zhang Lizhu , Xiong Yuqing , Ouyang Ting , Liu Zhao‐Qing
Published: May 2023

The electronic structure of transition metal complexes can be modulated by replacing partial ion of complexes to obtain tuned intrinsic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) or oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalytic activity. However, the anion‐modulated transition metal complexes ORR activity of is still unsatisfactory, and the construction of hetero‐anionic structure remains challenging. Herein, an atomic doping strategy is presented to prepare the CuCo2O4‐xSx/NC‐2 (CCSO/NC‐2) as electrocatalysts, the structrual characterization results favorably demonstrate the partial substitution of S atoms for O in CCSO/NC‐2, which shows excellent catalytic performance and durability for OER and ORR in 0.1 m KOH. In addition, the catalyst assembled Zinc–air battery with an open circuit potential of 1.43 V maintains performance after 300 h of cyclic stability. Theoretical calculations and differential charges illustrate that S doping optimizes the reaction kinetics and promotes electron redistribution. The superior performance of CCSO/NC‐2 catalysis is mainly due to its unique S modulation of the electronic structure of the main body. The introduction of S promotes CoO covalency and constructs a fast electron transport channel, thus optimizing the adsorption degree of active site Co to the reaction intermediates.
Photoactivation‐Induced Emission Enhancement in Benzosilole‐Based Fluorescent Conjugated Microporous Polymer Microspheres with Converse‐Photobleaching Behavior
Authors: Gou Gaozhang , Fang Lei , Wang Man , Fan Tao , Xu Hui , Liu Mingxian , Gu Cheng , Li Liangchun
Published: May 2023

Photo‐responsive porous materials have demonstrated their versatility in various areas. However, photoactivation in the fluorescent conjugated microporous polymer (CMP) microspheres is barely reported. Herein, a facile synthesis of benzosilole‐based CMPs with uniform microspheric morphology and their unprecedented photoactivated fluorescence enhancement as converse‐photobleaching behavior are reported. By simple ultraviolet irradiation, the fluorescence of  the CMP microspheres as the dispersion in various solvents is enhanced up to 60‐fold. More importantly, the photoactivation‐induced emission enhancement is carefully revealed to originate from the renovation of the ubiquitous defects by solvent molecule adsorption, photo‐dissociating, photo‐interparticle coupling, and photochemical reactions, supported by control experiments, theoretical calculations, and molecular dynamics simulations. The systematic elucidation of the CMP defects can open a new door to developing photo‐responsive polymers for various applications.
Terahertz Harmonic Generation from Graphite Pencil Drawings
Authors: Arshad Atiqa , Koyun Hatice Nur , Salikhov Ruslan , Gensch Michael , Ilyakov Igor , Ponomaryov Alexey , Prajapati Gulloo Lal , de Oliveira Thales V. A. G. , Mavridou Kalliopi , Lindner Jürgen , Deinert Jan-Christoph , Ünlü Cumhur Gökhan , Kovalev Sergey
Published: May 2023

The third harmonic generation (THG) of graphite layers on paper substrate upon excitation with intense (up to 100 kV cm−1) narrowband terahertz (THz) pulses is studied. Highest THG efficiencies are comparable with those of chemical vapor deposition‐grown single‐layer graphene. Samples are hand drawn, using commercially available pencils. The THG response shows high sensitivity regarding the hatching direction relative to the THz polarization orientation. Using Raman spectroscopy, the occurrence of graphene‐like structures in the samples is confirmed. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of virtually no‐cost and easy‐to‐fabricate materials for THz nonlinear optics.
A Separator with Double Coatings of Li4Ti5O12and Conductive Carbon for Li‐S Battery of Good Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Xia Shuang , Song Jie , Zhou Qi , Liu Lili , Ye Jilei , Wang Tao , Chen Yuhui , Liu Yankai , Wu Yuping , van Ree Teunis
Published: May 2023

The market demand for energy pushes researchers to pay a lot of attention to Li‐S batteries. However, the ‘shuttle effect’, the corrosion of lithium anodes, and the formation of lithium dendrites make the poor cycling performances (especially under high current densities and high sulfur loading) of Li‐S batteries, which limit their commercial applications. Here, a separator is prepared and modified with Super P and LTO (abbreviation SPLTOPD) through a simple coating method. The LTO can improve the transport ability of Li+cations, and the Super P can reduce the charge transfer resistance. The prepared SPLTOPD can effectively barrier the pass‐through of polysulfides, catalyze the reactions of polysulfides into S2−, and increase the ionic conductivity of the Li‐S batteries. The SPLTOPD can also prevent the aggregation of insulating sulfur species on the surface of the cathode. The assembled Li‐S batteries with the SPLTOPD can cycle 870 cycles at 5 C with the capacity attenuation of 0.066% per cycle. When the sulfur loading is up to 7.6 mg cm−2, the specific discharge capacity at 0.2 C can reach 839 mAh g−1, and the surface of lithium anode after 100 cycles does not show the existence lithium dendrites or a corrosion layer. This work provides an effective way for the preparation of commercial separators for Li‐S batteries.
Unified Interplay of Chemical Bond and Solid‐State Kinetics in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Hong Tae Hwa , Min Woosik , Choi Gwanghyeon , Kim Jea Duk , Lee Jung Tae , Kim Duho
Published: May 2023

It is proposed that the unified interplay between the chemical hardness of the Li–X (X = S, Se, and Te) bond and solid‐state conversion kinetics enables intrinsic reshaping of materials for fabricating high‐energy density lithium–sulfur batteries. This concept is evaluated using three cathode models: (i) Li2S, (ii) Se‐doped Li2S (Se‐Li2S), and (iii) Te‐doped Li2S (Te‐Li2S). Theoretical calculations reveal that the Li−X bond in the Se‐Li2S cathode shows low chemical hardness, and the chemical hardness decreases at a higher rate for the Te‐Li2S cathode. The local structural effect induces a decrease in the phase transition barrier during the solid‐state conversion reaction in the Se‐ and Te‐doped crystal phases, as revealed by electrochemical measurements and ex‐situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. Investigation of the three sulfide‐based cathodes sheds light on the mechanism behind the kinetics of phase transition in the solid‐state conversion region, illuminating the intriguing concept of a local structure for harnessing the full potential of sulfur cathodes to achieve high‐energy‐density lithium–sulfur batteries.
Direct air capture of CO2 by metal cation‐exchanged LTA zeolites: Effect of the charge‐to‐size ratio of cations
Authors: Tao Zeyu , Tian Yuanmeng , Ou Sze Yiu , Gu Qinfen , Shang Jin
Published: May 2023

Direct air capture of CO2 (DAC) has been increasingly recognized as a promising carbon‐negative technology. The challenge in deploying energy‐efficient DAC lies in effective sorbent materials. In this research, we comprehensively investigated the DAC behavior of LTA zeolites exchanged with different metal cations (Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Mn2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Y3+, La3+, Ce3+, Eu3+, Tb3+, and Yb3+) by both static single‐component gas adsorption and dynamic mixture gas adsorptive separation tests. We found that a large charge‐to‐size ratio of cations is critical to imparting a high DAC capacity of LTA zeolites, which is ascribed to the enhanced electrostatic interaction and/or π‐back bonding toward CO2. Meanwhile, a detrimental effect is associated with an excessively large charge‐to‐size ratio, that is, a significant “shielding effect” of (pre‐) adsorbed contaminants (e.g., H2O and CO2) on cations (e.g., Mn2+ and Mg2+) reduce the accessible CO2 capacity. Ca‐LTA featuring Ca2+ with an appropriate charge‐to‐size ratio exhibits the highest DAC capacity (350 ppm CO2 in the air, 1.20 mmol/g) with fast kinetics and good reusability. These results provide valuable insights for the design of zeolites‐based physisorbents for DAC.
Rapid Construction of Hexahydro‐1H‐pyrrolo[3,2‐c]pyridines with Functionalized 1,3‐Enynes and Imines via Palladium Catalysis
Authors: Huang Jin‐Yu , Hu Yuan , Chen Zhi‐Chao , Zhan Gu , Du Wei , Chen Ying‐Chun
Published: May 2023

Presented herein is a palladium catalyzed tandem reaction between 3‐aminoethyl group tethered 1,3‐enynes and imines, proceeding through a cascade vinylogous addition/reductive elimination/protonation/allylic amination and 1,3‐hydrogen transfer sequence. A collection of complex hexahydro‐1H‐pyrrolo[3,2‐c]pyridine architectures were straightforwardly constructed in moderate yields and diastereoselectivity.
How to Develop Bioresponsive MRI Probes Based on Paramagnetic Gd(III) for in vivo Applications
Authors: Yue Ping , Angelovski Goran
Published: May 2023

Among the many biological imaging techniques, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been widely adopted for biomedical and clinical diagnostic applications, because of its ability to image deep tissues with high spatiotemporal resolution. Bioresponsive contrast agents are the key to expanding the diagnostic potential of MRI by providing anatomical information and discerning biochemical activity. Recent developments in the field of responsive and gadolinium‐based agents have resulted in novel complexes that can sense their chemical microenvironments and thus study various functional processes in the tissue. Herein, we discuss the design and use of Gd(III)‐based and bioresponsive MRI contrast agents for specific biological markers such as Ca(II) and Zn(II) cations and zwitterionic amino acid neurotransmitters. Combining their basic physicochemical characteristics with aspects that should be considered for their use in vivo would achieve the desired sensing features and enable their applications in functional molecular imaging to visualize essential biological processes.
Risk‐sensitive large‐population linear‐quadratic‐Gaussian Games with major and minor agents
Authors: Xu Ruimin , Wu Tingting
Published: May 2023

This paper studies large‐population dynamic games involving a linear‐quadratic‐Gaussian (LQG) system with an exponential cost functional. The parameter in the cost functional can describe an investor's risk attitude. In the game, there are a major agent and a population of
minor agents where
is very large. The agents in the games are coupled via both their individual stochastic dynamics and their individual cost functions. The mean field methodology yields a set of decentralized controls, which are shown to be an
‐Nash equilibrium for a finite
population system where
. Numerical results are established to illustrate the impact of the population's collective behaviors and the consistency of the mean field estimation.
A high‐capacity dual‐ion full battery based on nitrogen‐doped carbon nanosphere anode and concentrated electrolyte
Authors: Wu Hongzheng , Luo Shenghao , Li Li , Xiao Hong , Yuan Wenhui
Published: May 2023

Dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) are often criticized for their low discharge capacity and poor cyclic capability despite their inherent high working voltage, low manufacturing cost, and environmental friendliness. To solve these shortcomings, many attempts and efforts have been devoted, but all ended in unsatisfactory results. Herein, a hierarchical porous carbon nanosphere anode with ultrahigh nitrogen doping is developed, which exhibits fast ion transport kinetics and excellent Li+ storage capability. Moreover, employing a concentrated electrolyte is expected to bring a series of advantages such as stable SEI for facilitating ion transmission, enhanced cycling performance, high specific capacity, and operation voltage. These advantages endow the assembled full DIBs with excellent performance as a super‐high specific discharge capacity of 351 mAh g−1 and can be cycled stably for 1300 cycles with Coulombic efficiency (CE) remaining at 99.5%; a high operating voltage range of 4.95–3.63 V and low self‐discharge rate of 2.46% h−1 with stable fast charging‐slow discharging performance. Through electrochemical measurements and physical characterizations, the possible working mechanism of the proof‐of‐concept full battery and the structural variations of electrodes during cycling are investigated. The design strategy of novel battery system in this work will promote the development of high‐performance DIBs.
Immune‐check blocking combination multiple cytokines shown curative potential in mice tumor model
Authors: Su Hongxia , Geng Hui , Cai Linkang , Xu Minjie , Xing Wenpin , Long Wei , Liu Biao , Li Yankun , Liu Binlei
Published: May 2023

Objective

In order to ensure the stable transcription of target genes, we constructed a eukaryotic high expression vector carrying an immune‐check inhibitor PD‐1v and a variety of cytokines, and studied their effects on activating immune response to inhibit tumor growth.

Methods

A novel eukaryotic expression plasmid vector named pT7AMPCE containing T7RNA polymerase, T7 promoter, internal ribosome entry site (IRES), and poly A tailing signal was constructed by T4 DNA ligase, on which homologous recombination was used to clone and construct the vector carrying PD‐1v, IL‐2/15, IL‐12, GM‐CSF, and GFP. In vitro transfection of CT26 cells was performed, and the protein expression of PD‐1v, IL‐12 and GM‐CSF was detected by Western blot and ELISA after 48 h. Mice were subcutaneously inoculated with CT26‐IRFP tumor cells in the rib abdomen, and the tumor tissues were injected with PD‐1v, IL‐2/15, IL‐12, and GM‐CSF recombinant plasmids for treatment during the experimental period. The efficacy of the treatment was evaluated by assay tumor size and survival time of tumor‐bearing mice during the experiment. Expression levels of IFN‐γ, TNF, IL‐4, IL‐2, and IL‐5 in mouse blood were measured using the CBA method. Tumor tissues were extracted and immune cell infiltration in tumor tissues was detected by HE staining and the IHC method.

Results

The recombinant plasmids carrying PD‐1v, IL‐2/15, IL‐12, and GM‐CSF were successfully constructed, and the Western blot and ELISA results showed that PD‐1v, IL‐12, and GM‐CSF were expressed in the supernatant of CT26 cells 48 h after in vitro cell transfection. The combined application of PD‐1v, IL‐2/15, IL‐12, and GM‐CSF recombinant plasmids significantly inhibited tumor growth in mice, and the tumor growth rate was significantly lower than that in the blank control group and GFP plasmid control group (p < 0.05). Cytometric bead array data suggested that the combination of PD‐1v and various cytokines can effectively activate immune cells. HE and IHC analysis revealed plenty of immune cell infiltrates in the tumor tissue, and a large proportion of tumor cells showed the necrotic phenotype in the combination treatment group.

Conclusion

The combination of immune check blockade and multiple cytokine therapy can significantly activate the body's immune response and inhibit tumor growth.
Insights into the leveraging of GABAergic signaling in cancer therapy
Authors: Li Tian‐Jiao , Jiang Jian , Tang Ya‐Ling , Liang Xin‐Hua
Published: May 2023

Gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain of adult mammals. Several studies have demonstrated that the GABAergic system may regulate tumor development via GABA receptors, downstream cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) pathway, epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway, AKT pathway, mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) or extracellular signal‐related kinases (ERK) pathway, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) pathway, although the exact mechanism is unclear. Pioneering studies reported that GABA signaling exists and functions in the cancer microenvironment and has an immunosuppressive effect that contributes to metastasis and colonization. This article reviews the molecular structures and biological functions of GABAergic components correlated with carcinogenesis, the mechanisms underlying GABAergic signaling that manipulate the proliferation and invasion of cancer cells, and the potential GABA receptor agonists and antagonists for cancer therapy. These molecules may provide an avenue for the development of specific pharmacological components to prevent the growth and metastasis of various cancers.
The prognostic role of cigarette smoking in Kidney Cancer Survival
Authors: Baral Amrit , Cranford Hannah M. , Sharma Janaki , Pinheiro Paulo S.
Published: May 2023

Background

The role of cigarette smoking as a prognostic factor for kidney cancer (KC) is unclear. In this population‐based study, we analyze cancer‐specific survival (CSS) outcomes among KC patients by smoking status at diagnosis in the diverse state of Florida.

Methods

All primary KC cases from the Florida Cancer Registry diagnosed during 2005–2018 were analyzed. Cox proportional regression was conducted to assess the determinants of KC survival, including age, sex, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, histology type, cancer stage, and treatment received with a particular focus on smoking status (smokers at diagnosis referred to as current smokers, former smokers, and never smokers).

Results

Among all 36,150 KC patients, 18.3% were smokers at diagnosis (n = 6629), 32.9% were former smokers (n = 11,870), and 48.8% were never smokers (n = 17,651). Age‐standardized five‐year survival for current, former, and never smokers was 65.3 (95% CI: 64.1–66.5), 70.6 (95% CI: 69.7–71.5), and 75.3 (95% CI: 74.6–76.0) respectively. In multivariable analysis, current and former smokers had an estimated 30% and 14% higher risk of KC death compared to never smokers, respectively, after adjusting for potential confounders (HR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.23–1.40; HR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.10–1.20).

Conclusion

Smoking independently contributes to poorer survival, across all KC stages. Clinicians should encourage and facilitate participation in cigarette smoking cessation programs targeted at current smokers. Prospective studies are warranted to assess the role of different types of tobacco use and cessation programs on KC survival.