bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Shining insights: Deciphering the biogenic synthesis of Ajuga bracteosa‐mediated gold nanoparticles with advanced microscopy techniques
Authors: Afreen Afshan , Hameed Hajra , Tariq Muhammad , Sharif Muhammad Shakeeb , Ahmed Rashid , Waheed Abdul , Kousar Momina Bint , Akram Zeeshan 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIn this study, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were bioreduced from Ajuga bracteosa, a medicinal herb known for its therapeutic properties against various diseases. Different fractions of the plant extract were used, including the methanolic fraction (ABMF), the n‐hexane fraction (ABHF), the chloroform fraction (ABCF), and the aqueous extract for AuNPs synthesis. The characterization of AuNPs was performed using UV–Vis spectrophotometry, FT‐IR, XRD, EDX, and TEM. UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed the formation of AuNPs, with peaks observed at 555 nm. FT‐IR analysis indicated strong capping of phytochemicals on the surface of AuNPs, which was supported by higher total phenolic contents (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) in AuNPs. XRD results showed high crystallinity and a smaller size distribution of AuNPs. TEM analysis revealed the spherical shape of AuNPs, with an average size of 29 ± 10 nm. The biologically synthesized AuNPs exhibited superior antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities compared to the plant extract fractions. The presence of active biomolecules in A. bracteosa, such as neoclerodan flavonol glycosides, diterpenoids, phytoecdysone, and iridoid glycosides, contributed to the enhanced biological activities of AuNPs. Overall, this research highlights the potential of A. bracteosa‐derived AuNPs for various biomedical applications due to their remarkable therapeutic properties and effective capping by phytochemicals.Research Highlights
This research underscores the growing significance of herbal medicine in contemporary healthcare by exploring the therapeutic potential of Ajuga bracteosa and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs).
The study highlights the notable efficacy of A. bracteosa leaf extracts and AuNPs in treating bacterial infections, demonstrating their bactericidal effects on a range of strains.
The anti‐inflammatory properties of plant extracts and nanoparticles are evidenced through paw edema method suggesting their applicability in managing inflammatory conditions.
These findings position A. bracteosa and AuNPs as potential candidates for alternative and effective approaches to modern medication.
Constructing and validating a risk model based on neutrophil‐related genes for evaluating prognosis and guiding immunotherapy in colon cancer
Authors: Wang Shasha , Wang Lili , Qiu Mingxiu , Lin Zhongkun , Qi Weiwei , Lv Jing , Wang Yan , Lu Yangyang , Li Xiaoxuan , Chen Wenzhi , Qiu Wensheng 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundColon cancer is one of the most common digestive tract malignancies. Although immunotherapy has brought new hope to colon cancer patients, there is still a large proportion of patients who do not benefit from immunotherapy. Studies have shown that neutrophils can interact with immune cells and immune factors to affect the prognosis of patients.MethodsWe first determined the infiltration level of neutrophils in tumors using the CIBERSORT algorithm and identified key genes in the final risk model by Spearman correlation analysis and subsequent Cox analysis. The risk score of each patient was obtained by multiplying the Cox regression coefficient and the gene expression level, and patients were divided into two groups based on the median of risk score. Differences in overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were assessed by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, and model accuracy was validated in independent dataset. Differences in immune infiltration and immunotherapy were evaluated by immunoassay. Finally, immunohistochemistry and western blotting were performed to verify the expression of the three genes in the colon normal and tumor tissues.ResultsWe established and validated a risk scoring model based on neutrophil‐related genes in two independent datasets, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, with SLC11A1 and SLC2A3 as risk factors and MMP3 as a protective factor. A new nomogram was constructed and validated by combining clinical characteristics and the risk score model to better predict patients OS and PFS. Immune analysis showed that patients in the high‐risk group had immune cell infiltration level, immune checkpoint level and tumor mutational burden, and were more likely to benefit from immunotherapy.ConclusionsThe low‐risk group showed better OS and PFS than the high‐risk group in the neutrophil‐related gene‐based risk model. Patients in the high‐risk group presented higher immune infiltration levels and tumor mutational burden and thus may be more responsive to immunotherapy.
Association between hepatitis C virus genotype 4 and renal cell carcinoma: Molecular and virological studies
Authors: Ahmed Asmaa E. , Abol‐enein Hassan , El‐Morsi Adel A. , El‐Hefnawy Ahmed S. , Elsayed Ashraf A. , Khater Sherry , Hashem Abdelwahab , Zekri Abdel‐Rahman N. , Haroun Samia A. , Shokeir Ahmed A. , Awadalla Amira 
Published: April 2024

AbstractHepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common infection worldwide. The correlation between HCV and renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is still mysterious. Therefore, the relationship between HCV and RCC was investigated. The study included 100 patients with RCC; 32 with HCV infection, and 68 without HCV infection. Expressions of viral proteins (NS3 and NS5A) were tested using an immune electron‐microscope (IEM) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). IHC and quantitative real time‐PCR investigated the presentation of human proteins TP53 and p21 genes. Transmission electron (TEM) detected viral‐like particles in infected RCC tissues. The gene and protein expression of P53 was higher in HCV positive versus HCV negative patients and p21 was lower in HCV positive versus HCV negative in both tumor and normal tissue samples. Viral like particles were observed by TEM in the infected tumor and normal portion of the RCC tissues and the plasma samples. The IEM showed the depositions of NS3 and NS5A in infected renal tissues, while in noninfected samples, were not observed. The study hypothesizes that a correlation between HCV and RCC could exist through successfully detecting HCV‐like particles, HCV proteins, and (p53 and p21) in RCC‐infected patients.
Stability mechanism of Monascus pigment–soy protein isolate–maltodextrin complex
Authors: Wang Qiuyu , Li Xiaoyu , Hao Jia , Xu Duoxia 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDMonascus pigment (MP) is a natural food coloring with vital physiological functions but prone to degradation and color fading under light conditions.RESULTSThis study investigated the effect of complex formation of soybean protein isolate (SPI), maltodextrin (MD), and MP on the photostability of MP. Light stability was assessed through retention rate and color difference. Fluorescence spectroscopy (FS), circular dichroism (CD), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) explored MP, SPI, and MD interactions, clarifying the MP–SPI–MD complex mechanism on the light stability of MP. Microstructure and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyzed the morphology and thermal properties. The retention rate of MP increased to approximately 80%, and minimal color difference was observed when adding SPI and MD simultaneously. FS revealed hydrophobic interaction between MP and SPI. FTIR analysis showed intensity changes and peak shifts in amide I band and amide II band, which proved the hydrophobic interaction. CD showed a decrease in α‐helix content and an increase in β‐sheet content after complex formation, indicating strengthened hydrogen bonding interactions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis demonstrated that MP was attached to the surface and interior of complexes. XRD showed MP as crystalline, while SPI and MD were amorphous, complexes exhibited weakened or absent peaks, suggesting MP encapsulation. The results of DSC were consistent with XRD.CONCLUSIONSPI and MD enveloped MP through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction, ultimately enhancing its light stability and providing insights for pigment–protein–polysaccharide interactions and improving pigment stability in the food industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Re‐thinking tourist wellbeing: An integrative model of affiliation with nature and social connections
Authors: Chang Lu , Moyle Brent D. , Vada Sera , Filep Sebastian , Dupre Karine , Liu Biqiang 
Published: April 2024

AbstractResearch on positive psychological outcomes of tourism has experienced exponential growth. However, a critical dimension of tourist wellbeing, affiliation, remains underexplored and conceptually underdeveloped. This study draws on 26 in‐depth interviews with international tourists to Fiji to explore the influence of affiliation with nature and social connectedness on tourist wellbeing. Findings demonstrate the integral role of travel companionship, tourist affiliation with nature and connection with local people as critical determinants of positive psychological outcomes. An integrative model across the domains of gaze, practice and reflection is developed to demonstrate how affiliation with nature and social connectedness influence tourist wellbeing. Future research should explore the multi‐sensual character and the therapeutic potential of tourist social encounters and interactions with nature and subsequent implications for tourist wellbeing.
Curcumin‐Encapsulated Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) Nanoparticles: A Comparison of Drug Release Kinetics from Particles Prepared via Electrospray and Nanoprecipitation
Authors: Roshan Zahra , Haddadi‐Asl Vahid , Ahmadi Hanie , Moussaei Majid 
Published: April 2024

AbstractControlled drug release (CDR) is a significant field of research in medical sciences due to its numerous clinical advantages over traditional methods. Encapsulation of a drug in a polymeric matrix is common technique to achieve CDR. In this study, drug‐polymer particles are prepared using poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) as the polymer and curcumin (CUR) as model drug. Two different methods, electrospray and nanoprecipitation, are used to prepare the particles, and optimal samples in each process are selected based on size and polydispersity index (PDI). Samples are characterized using various tests, and entrapment efficiency (EE%) and drug loading (DL%) are calculated using UV spectroscopy. The results showed that nanoprecipitated and electrosprayed PLGA particles successfully encapsulated CUR, with higher encapsulation efficiency (93.2%) and loading capacity (7.2%) for electrosprayed particles. The in vitro drug release showed that electrospray particles have a slower release rate due to higher encapsulation efficiency. The electrospray method turned out to be more viable for synthesizing these polymer‐drug particles due to smaller particle size, lower PDI, higher entrapment efficiency, and drug loading percentage. Finally, the antibacterial behavior of the particles proved that prepared particles provide excellent antibacterial efficacy (99.9%) and can be used as drug delivery systems.
Groups having minimal covering number 2 of the diagonal type
Authors: Fusari Marco , Previtali Andrea , Spiga Pablo 
Published: April 2024

AbstractGaronzi and Lucchini explored finite groups possessing a normal 2‐covering, where no proper quotient of exhibits such a covering. Their investigation offered a comprehensive overview of these groups, delineating that such groups fall into distinct categories: almost simple, affine, product action, or diagonal.In this paper, we focus on the family falling under the diagonal type. Specifically, we present a thorough classification of finite diagonal groups possessing a normal 2‐covering, with the attribute that no proper quotient of has such a covering.With deep appreciation to Martino Garonzi and Andrea Lucchini, for keeping us entertained.
Preparation of Three Component PVDF‐Bi4V2O11‐SDS Composites with Enhanced Dielectric and Electrical Properties
Authors: Bag Rama Chandra , Moharana Srikanta , Chakroborty Subhendu , Mishra Nilima Priyadarsini , Chandra Priyanka , Mahaling R.N. , Ukhurebor Kingsley Eghonghon 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIn this work, poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)‐bismuth vanadate (Bi4V2O11; BVO)‐sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) composite films are fabricated by the solution casting method. The frequency dependence of the dielectric and electric performances of the resultant PVDF‐BVO‐SDS composites on various weight percentages of SDS contents is investigated. The results demonstrate that the three‐component PVDF‐BVO‐SDS composites have a superior dielectric constant (96) and suppressed dielectric loss (<1) at 102 Hz for 20 wt% of SDS contents. The surface morphology of the PVDF‐BVO‐SDS composites shows that SDS is successfully reinforced on the PVDF‐BVO matrix with better homogeneity. The ac conductivity of the PVDF‐BVO‐SDS composites is also improved, which is helpful for the enhancement of the dielectric constant and relatively low loss in the composites. Moreover, the PVDF‐BVO‐SDS composite also exhibits a larger value of the dielectric constant (96) than the pristine PVDF matrix, which is 15 times higher than that of the pristine one. These significantly enhanced dielectric and electrical characteristics of PVDF‐BVO‐SDS composites will fulfill the practical criteria for their use in high dielectric‐constant capacitors and energy storage devices.
Study of Power Sector Reforms for Madhya Pradesh Development
Authors: Wagadare Shraddha , Saha Sonali , Gupta Dhirendra Kumar , Ghosh Papri 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe nuclear power industry in India plays a significant role in meeting the country's energy demands and fostering economic growth. This research study explores the need for research in the context of India's nuclear power industry, specifically focusing on Madhya Pradesh (MP). The aim is to investigate the potential of nuclear energy as a clean and sustainable resource for economic development in the region. The study considers the interplay between economic growth, resource reduction, and energy consumption within the state.Highlights of the article importance of nuclear energy in India's overall energy mix and its potential for driving economic progress. The Indian nuclear power industry encompasses various sectors, including industrial, transmission, and commercial. Nuclear energy is recognized as a clean and vital economic resource, capable of providing substantial benefits to the national economy.The focus of this research is MP, the largest state in terms of nuclear power generation in India. The state's economic growth depends on several factors, including energy consumption. To achieve significant improvements in resource reduction and sustainable development, it is crucial to examine the role of nuclear power within the state's energy sector.The research study presented in this article addresses the electricity reform of the Madhya Pradesh State Electricity Board (MPSEB). By evaluating the infrastructure and recent discussions surrounding the Chutka Nuclear Power Plant project, which aims to support the energy sector in the Mandla region, this study aims to contribute to the understanding of the potential economic benefits of nuclear power in MP.The findings from this research will provide valuable insights into the relationship between nuclear energy, economic growth, and sustainable development in the Indian context. It will help policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers in formulating strategies and policies that promote the effective utilization of nuclear power as a catalyst for economic progress while ensuring environmental sustainability. This study ultimately contributes to the knowledge base required for harnessing the full potential of nuclear energy in India's energy landscape.
Recent Advancement in Porous Graphene from Synthesis to Properties: Critical Review on Functionalization Chemistry and Applications
Authors: Vijayan Jyothy G. , Prabhu T. Niranjana 
Published: April 2024

AbstractGraphene is the main allotropy of carbon which exhibits properties like super conductivity, high electron transfer, and large surface area. Porous graphene (PG) has unique porous structure and many exposed edges. In 2D graphene pore ranges from several angstroms to nanometers. Similar to 3D graphene, which also has a porous structure, there are four different types: foam, sponge, and graphene hydrogel (GH). Graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) are used to create PG. This review focuses on various methods of synthesis of PG along with its inherent properties and methods to modify its properties by surface functionalization. Emphasis is also given on the discussion of various techniques that are involved in the PG characterization. This article discusses the formation of hybrids, and composites using PG. Applications and limitations of PG have also been indicated. This review shows an extensive overview of the main principles and the recent synthetic technologies about fabricating various innovative 3D graphene‐based materials. Subsequently, recent progresses in electrochemical energy devices and hydrogen energy generation/storage are explicitly covered. The applications of PG and its composites in the fields such as energy storage, solar units, sensors, supercapacitors, etc. have been discussed The up to date progress for pollutants detection and environmental remediation are also reviewed. Finally, challenges and outlooks in materials development for different applications are suggested.
Nanocellulose as an Ecofriendly Source in Nanoscience: Synthesis, Characterization, Properties, and Applications—A Review
Authors: Vijayan Jyothy G. , Prabhu T. Niranjana , A. G. Jineesh 
Published: April 2024

AbstractNanocellulose is a promising future material which has got attention due to its unique characteristics. Properties which make nanocellulose special are the eco‐friendliness, high strength, stiffness, renewability, abundance, tunable surface characteristics, and low weight. This review addresses major factors like processing of nanocellulose, modification, properties, preparation of nanocomposites from nanocellulose, and their application in different fields. This review facilitates the selection of biomass sources, processing techniques for NC synthesis, application, and challenges. This review also emphasizes on different applications of nanocellulose reinforced polymer composites in different areas such as biomedical, packaging, electronic and environmental remediation, etc. Recent developments in the processing of cellulose nanocomposites using solution casting and other complex methods have been highlighted. As an emerging functional polymeric material, nanocellulose has become a research hotspot. The importance of nanocellulose in future includes the design of nanocellulose as per the specific user requirements, reduction of the production cost, and making customized products using nanocellulose using green processing. Hence this review is intended to provide new insights into the field of eco‐friendly fundamental materials with in‐depth perspectives and current research trends in its future applications.
Evaluating the Effect of Different Percentage Addition of SiC on Mechanical and Wear Properties of Al6061 Composite
Authors: Dubey Amit , Kumar Sagar , Dubey Maneesh 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAluminum 6061 alloy using silicon carbide (SiC) particles as a reinforcement is a promising metal matrix composite (MMC) that has gained significant attention in the automotive and aerospace industries. Till now the effect of the addition of SiC particles in Al6061 composite is not studied in depth and also very few studies are reported the on‐wear properties of Al6061‐SiC composite. So, to further enhance the properties of Al6061 alloy and to study in depth this work is carried out. In this study, MMCs are prepared using the stir casting route with varying weight fractions (5–10 wt%) of SiC particles. The properties of composites including tensile strength, compression strength, and wear are evaluated experimentally. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of SiC particles into the Al alloy matrix leads to a notable improvement in mechanical and wear parameters. The tensile and compression strength of the Al composites increases with an increase in the weight percentage addition of SiC particles (from 5% to 7.5%). At 7.5 wt% addition of SiC, it is found that the particles are uniformly distributed throughout the Al6061 alloy matrix. And also shows higher mechanical and wear properties as compared to 5% and 10% addition.
Structural Properties, Energy Interaction, and Applications of CdS Nanomaterial Doped with Rare‐Earth Ions
Authors: Singh Jitendra Pal , Pal Sudha , Nag Atanu , Sharma Y. K. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractSpectroscopic analysis of trivalent praseodymium (Pr+3) and neodymium (Nd+3) ions have received very much interest and reveals good fluorescence efficiency in visible and near IR (NIR) region. Cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanomaterial sample doped with Pr+3 and Nd+3 ions are synthesized at room temperature by simple chemical precipitation method. The synthesized sample has been characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction studies, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectra. Absorption spectra of CdS:Nd3+ and CdS:Pr3+ nanoparticles have been recorded at room temperature. Various parameters such as interplanar spacing, micro strain, dislocation density, distortion parameter, and particle size of nanomaterial are computed. TEM and XRD analysis reveal the spherical structure of the CdS:Nd3+ and CdS:Pr3+ nanoparticles in the prepared samples. Energy interaction parameters of the CdS:Nd3+ and CdS:Pr3+ nanoparticles are computed using UV‐visible absorption spectrum. Actually, CdS nanoparticle amplifies the luminescence intensity of Pr+3, Nd+3 ions by up conversion processes. So energy transfer can be observed from CdS nanoparticles doped with Pr+3, Nd+3 ions. Therefore, the use of pump sources and diode lasers in the UV range can be used to excite these samples to work as lasers. CdS:Nd3+ and CdS:Pr3+ nanoparticles find potential application as a window material for hetero‐junction solar cell, light emitting diodes (LED), biological sensors, address decoders, gas detectors, opto‐electronic devices, etc. CdS nanomaterials are also used as pigment in paints and in engineered plastic due to their good thermal stability.
The evolution mechanism of green products supply and demand in a demand‐driven market
Authors: Jin Shuai , Qiao Na , Dabuo Francis Tang , Zhu Changchun 
Published: April 2024

AbstractPromoting the production and consumption of green products is one of the essential ways to achieve sustainable development. However, although some studies have explored the evolution mechanism of the supply and demand system, these scholars have not noticed that in today's prosperous economy, demand‐driven markets have become mainstream in many countries. This paper establishes an evolutionary game model with producers and consumers in a demand‐driven market and analyzes the evolution mechanism of the system. The results indicate that (1) producers are willing to produce green products only if they can obtain excess green profits; (2) the lack of supply is the critical factor hindering consumers from purchasing green products; (3) additionally, there are multiple evolutionary paths under different substitution relations of different products; (4) interestingly, green premium and the consumers' sensitivity can simultaneously mitigate the perceived losses even when green products are insufficient. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are further discussed.