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Impact of charcoal production on soil micronutrients, enzyme activities, microbial composition, and biomass phosphorus in a derived savannah ecosystem of Nigeria
Abstract Soil functions as the active force managing diverse biogeochemical processes in tropical forest ecosystems, including storing and recycling nutrients and decomposing organic matter. Anthropogenic activities, mainly deforestation on charcoal production, have substantially disrupted these processes, leading to notable changes in microbial activities, enzyme functions, and the availability and soil nutrient status of the derived savannah in southwestern Nigeria. While there is increasing recognition of charcoal’s impact on soil properties, there remains a noticeable research gap in understanding its specific effects on some associated soil microbial properties, soil enzymes, and micronutrients in charcoal production sites. Our investigation assesses soil nutrition, microbial composition, and some selected associated P and S enzymes under charcoal production sites of derived Savanna, Nigeria. Soil samples were systematically collected at 0–15 cm, 15–30 cm, and 30–45 cm in locations associated with charcoal production (CPS) and non-production sites (NPS). The objective was to assess the microbial biomass content in phosphorus and activity levels of microorganisms in soil, focusing on their production of phosphorus and sulfur enzymes, and to examine the overall nutrient release in these diverse environments. The findings revealed Biomass phosphorus (B p ), Phosphatase (Pho), Thiosulfate dehydrogenase (Tsd), Dimethyl sulfoxide reductase (Dsr), and micronutrients (Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, Fe) were significantly higher in CPS than in NPS. Phytase (Phy) followed a consistent trend at both sites with significant differences among means. Except for copper (Cu), the cobalt (Co), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) concentrations declined as the soil depth increased in the CPS and NPS across the three locations. This indicates that charcoal production sites in the derived savannah forest of southwestern Nigeria significantly impact soil properties and microbial activities. The higher Bp, Pho, Tsd, and Dsr levels in CPS suggest increased microbial activity and nutrient availability compared to NPS. Additionally, the variation in micronutrient concentrations with soil depth indicates differences in nutrient distribution and availability between the two sites. These findings underscore the importance of further ecosystems to understand the effects of charcoal production on soil ecosystems and to fully develop sustainable management practices that mitigate these impacts.
SlimVar for rapid in vivo single-molecule tracking of chromatin regulators in plants
Abstract Epigenetic regulation occurs over many rounds of cell division in higher organisms. However, visualisation of the regulators in vivo is limited by imaging dynamic molecules deep in tissue. We report a technology—Variable-angle Slimfield microscopy (SlimVar)—that enables tracking of single fluorescent reporters to 30 µm depth through multiple Arabidopsis thaliana root tip cell layers. SlimVar uses rapid photobleaching to resolve tracked particles to molecular steps in intensity. By modifying widefield microscopy to minimise optical aberrations and robustly post-process few-photon signals, SlimVar mitigates performance losses at depth. We use SlimVar to quantify chromatin-protein assemblies in nuclei, finding that two homologous proteins key to epigenetic switching at FLOWERING LOCUS C ( FLC ) —cold-induced VERNALISATION INSENSITIVE3 (VIN3) and constitutively expressed VERNALISATION 5 (VRN5)—exhibit dynamic assemblies during FLC silencing. Upon cold exposure, the number of assembly molecules increases up to 100% to a median of ~20 molecules. Larger VRN5 assemblies preferentially colocalise with an FLC lacO transgenic reporter during prolonged cold and persist after return to warmth. Our findings support a hybrid model of epigenetic memory in which nucleation of histone trimethylation is assisted by dynamic protein assemblies over extended durations. SlimVar offers molecular insights into proteins expressed at physiological levels in tissues.
Outside Back Cover: Metal‐Responsive Up‐Regulation of Bifunctional Disulfides for Suppressing Protein Misfolding and Promoting Oxidative Folding (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 36/2025)
Effect of a health belief model–based intervention on oral self-care and quality of life in adults with type 2 diabetes: a quasi-experimental study
High-sensitivity and fast-response solar-blind photodetectors via band offset engineering for motion tracking
Investigating the performance of asphalt pavements modified with reclaimed asphalt and crumb rubber
Catalytic aromatic C−H borylation via strained Si and Ge metallacycles
High‐Efficiency Hydrogen Oxidation for Hydroxide Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells Catalyzed by Fivefold‐Twinned Nickel Nanoparticles
Abstract The independent regulation of multiple intermediates is critically important for optimizing the electronic structure of nickel (Ni), thereby improving its catalytic performance in the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR). However, conventional regulation strategies based on the Hammer–Nørskov d‐band model often change the hydrogen binding energy (HBE) and hydroxyl binding energy (OHBE) in a synchronized manner. Herein, we find that a catalyst consisting of fivefold‐twinned ultrasmall Ni nanoparticles could tune HBE and OHBE individually via the strain effect. Experimental and theoretical calculations suggest that tensile strain in proximity to the twin boundary (TB) significantly enhances OHBE, allows for adjustable HBE due to unique geometric effects, and greatly reduces HBE at specific sites, enabling an unprecedented HOR activity. The catalyst has a high j k,m value of 106.6 mA mg Ni −1 , which is 24.2 times greater than that of Ni/C. The hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cell (HEMFC) with fivefold‐twinned Ni nanoparticles anode delivers a peak power density (PPD) of 805 mW cm −2 with H 2 /O 2 gas feed, which is the highest among Ni‐based electrocatalysts reported thus far. Furthermore, the catalyst also exhibits excellent long‐term cycling performance, taking a giant step forward toward the commercialization of platinum group metal (PGM)‐free HEMFCs.
LBX1, ESR1, and ESR2 genes DNA methylation level in idiopathic scoliosis
Multiple myeloma associated long non-coding RNA PLUM confers chemoresistance by enhancing PRC2 mediated UPR pathway activation
Abstract Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy that displays diverse genetic heterogeneity leading to treatment resistance. Recurrent mutations causing hyperactivation of the non-canonical NF-ĸB pathway are highly prevalent in relapsed, refractory MM patients, but the precise mechanisms driving chemoresistance are poorly understood. Here, we identify a long non-coding RNA termed PLUM, that is overexpressed in NF-ĸB mutant high-risk MM subtypes and patients who are refractory to VRd treatment regimen. Mechanistically, PLUM interacts with Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 to regulate its stability and histone methyltransferase activity, modulating the expression of tumor suppressor genes, FOXO3 and ZFP36, to activate the unfolded protein response (UPR). Importantly, disruption of PLUM-EZH2 interaction using steric antisense oligonucleotides re-sensitizes myeloma cells to drug treatment in vivo, correlating with the loss of PRC2 stability and H3K27 trimethylation activity. These findings indicate that PLUM facilitates formation of PRC2 complex and enhances EZH2 activity, modulating the myeloma epigenome to mediate chemoresistance. Hence, targeting PLUM-EZH2 interactions may represent a clinically potent strategy for the treatment of relapsed, refractory MM.
Selective Sieving Effect of Multi‐Atomic Bismuth Interfaces for Efficient Formate Electrosynthesis and Evolution at Industrial Current Density
Abstract Constructing multi‐atomic interfaces architectures is promising for electrocatalytic CO 2 conversion, yet their synthesis and stability under industrial current densities remain challenging. Herein, multi‐atomic Bi interfaces (Bi 0 /Bi δ+ −O moiety) were precisely engineered by embedding atomically dispersed Bi centers, encompassing Bi single atoms and Bi atomic clusters into the substrate of porous Bi 2 O 3‐x nanosheets. The composite showcases outstanding CO 2 conversion performance across a wide pH range, attaining remarkable Faradaic efficiency for formate (FE formate ) of 96.48% (at ultralow potential of −0.5 V versus RHE) and 92.26% in alkaline and neutral electrolytes, along with exceptional long‐term stability over 150 h. Depending on the designed CH 3 OH electrooxidation catalyst (CuO x /ZnCo(OH) x ) at the anode to couple with CO 2 conversion, symmetrical/asymmetrical electrolyzers were developed. The approach could obtain high‐added value products with FE formate >90% at both electrodes, achieving a production rate of 4980 µmol h −1 cm −2 under industrial current density. Combined in situ characterizations and theoretical calculations unravel that multiple atomic interfaces featuring interfacial atomic sieving effects effectively enhance preferential binding of *H and *CO 2 to form *OCHO, while simultaneously suppressing the undesired recombination of hydrogen species into H 2 , rationalizing the high selectivity. Further intermediacy of concentrated formate precursors for subsequent C–N coupling toward urea synthesis, establishing a pathway for sustainable evolution.
Improved prediction model for daily PM2.5 concentrations with particle swarm optimization and BP neural network
Towards ultra-sensitive and rapid near-source wastewater-based epidemiology
Abstract Wastewater-based epidemiology is emerging as a powerful early-warning public health surveillance tool. However, gold-standard PCR necessitates transporting samples to laboratories, with significant reporting delays (24-72 h), prompting growing interest in rapid, near-source tests for resource-limited settings. Research has focused on gold nanoparticle dipsticks, but these typically lack sensitivity in wastewater. Herein, we explore two complementary nanomaterial based approaches, using SARS-CoV-2 as an exemplar: 1) visually-read carbon black dipsticks; 2) spin-enhanced fluorescent nanodiamond dipsticks, exploiting selective separation from background autofluorescence. The assay provides a 2-hour turnaround from sample preparation to result with minimal equipment and achieves a limit of detection down to 7 copies per assay. A pilot study with samples from the Welsh National WBE programme finds 80% sensitivity and 100% specificity for carbon black, and 100% sensitivity, specificity for nanodiamonds. A proof-of-concept lab-in-a-suitcase nanodiamond assay tests raw, unprocessed wastewater samples. These findings lay the foundations for near-source WBE early-warning quantum sensors in the environment.
Dual‐Sided Multidentate Coordination Strategy Enables Record Birefringence in UV‐Transparent Antimony‐Based Hybrid Crystals
Abstract Achieving ultrahigh birefringence in UV‐transparent materials remains fundamentally constrained by the trade‐off between strong optical anisotropy and wide bandgap transparency. Herein, we report a dual‐sided multidentate coordination (DMC) strategy to construct two butterfly‐shaped UV organic–inorganic hybrid crystals—(C 6 H 4 NO 2 ) 2 SbF (PCSF) and (C 10 H 6 NO 2 ) 2 SbF (QCSF)—in which planar π‐conjugated bidentate ligands symmetrically chelate stereochemically active lone pair (SCALP) Sb 3+ centers. This coordination architecture enforces coplanar alignment of optical functional units and promotes dense π–π stacking, thereby significantly enhancing macroscopic birefringence. Notably, QCSF achieves a record‐high birefringence of Δ n = 0.87 at 546 nm, surpassing all previously reported lone‐pair‐containing halide crystals with UV transparency. The exceptional optical performance is attributed to the unique [SbN 2 O 2 F] coordination geometry, near‐planar molecular configuration, and extended π‐electron delocalization. First‐principles calculations reveal that the observed anisotropy stems from synergistic orbital coupling between the Sb centers and the π‐conjugated organic ligands. This work introduces a broadly applicable molecular design paradigm for next‐generation birefringent crystals that simultaneously offer high optical anisotropy and UV transparency.
Investigating the relationship between peripheral blood transferrin receptor protein and tumor cell ferroptosis, invasion, and metastasis in bladder cancer
Mitochondria‐Targeting Abasic Site‐Reactive Probe (mTAP) Enables the Manipulation of Mitochondrial DNA Levels
Abstract Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) encodes essential genes for mitochondrial and cellular functions and acts as a cell signaling molecule in innate immune and inflammatory responses. Defects in mtDNA are implicated in a range of mitochondrial disorders and human diseases. Currently, no chemical strategy exists to prevent mtDNA loss under genotoxic stress. To address this, we developed a mitochondria‐targeting probe (mTAP) that selectively reacts with key mtDNA repair intermediates–abasic (AP) sites. We confirmed that mTAP forms oxime conjugates exclusively with mitochondrial AP sites without conjugation with nuclear AP sites. Upon mTAP conjugation, DNA substrates containing AP sites were resistant to cleavage by AP endonuclease (APE1) and mitochondrial extracts. This conjugation significantly reduced the DNA‐binding affinity of APE1 without affecting the DNA‐binding activity of a mtDNA‐packaging factor, mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM). Importantly, cellular experiments demonstrated that mTAP treatment alleviated the decrease in mtDNA and transcription product levels induced by mitochondrial AP site damage. Functional assays also demonstrated that mTAP treatment did not compromise mtDNA replication activity or increase the overall mtDNA damage level. These findings highlight the potential of mTAP as a valuable chemical tool to modulate mtDNA levels under genotoxic stress.
Serum metabolomics-driven network pharmacology elucidate the anti-rheumatoid arthritis potential of garden cress
Abstract Garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.) has been traditionally utilized for the treatment of various diseases and is increasingly consumed as a functional food and alternative medicine in many countries due to its therapeutic potential. Notably, L. sativum is a promising candidate for mitigating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study employed a serum pharmacochemistry approach combined with a network pharmacology strategy to identify the active components and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of L. sativum in RA management. An RA rat model was established using Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA). Following L. sativum administration, bioactive serum components were identified and quantified as markers of its pharmacological activity. Twenty-six serum metabolites, including 11 prototype compounds and 15 derived metabolites, were identified as key bioactive constituents absorbed at significant concentrations, potentially mediating the anti-RA effects of L. sativum. Among these, fatty acids and their conjugated metabolites emerged as the most relevant. Through network pharmacology, potential target genes and associated pathways were predicted. KEGG pathway analysis highlighted critical RA-related pathways, including arachidonic acid metabolism, modulation of inflammatory regulators in TRP channels, linoleic acid metabolism, and antifolate resistance pathways. Experimental data demonstrated that L. sativum significantly downregulated key inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β, TNF-α, MMP-9, CYP1A2, PLA2G2A, and MAPK8. This integrated study provides insight into the molecular mechanisms and active constituents of L. sativum, serving as a foundational reference for its therapeutic application against RA.
Modeling teacher education students’ adoption of large language models through an extended technology acceptance framework
A Guest Cation Screening Principle for Enabling Customized Cathode/Electrolyte Interface Chemistry and Self‐Enhanced Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Abstract Intrinsic structural instability and sluggish reaction kinetics at the electrode/electrolyte interface are two critical concerns that block the application of MnO 2 cathode in high‐performance aqueous zinc‐ion batteries. This work proposes a theoretical screening principle to select the compatible guest cation for MnO 2 host, not only to strengthen the structure but also customize high‐efficiency cathode/electrolyte interphase (CEI). As identified, Sr 2+ is selected as the suitable intercalation ion that enable in situ forming the SrSO 4 CEI after partial release upon charge process. Moreover, density functional theory calculation and multiple characterization research indicate that such SrSO 4 interphase shows an electronic insulation to stabilize the interfacial pH, inhibit the Mn dissolution, and promote the efficient de‐solvation of hydrated zinc ions. Benefited from the self‐optimizing cathode/electrolyte interface chemistry, the 2.5% Sr‐MnO 2 one exhibits higher specific capacity (304.1 mAh g −1 at 0.5 A g −1 ), better rate capability (115 mAh g −1 at 10 A g −1 ), as well as higher capacity retention of 87.9% after 1000 cycles at 2 A g −1 , when compared with pure δ‐MnO 2 electrode. This study provides a new insight on understanding the functions of ion intercalation engineering to design robust layered cathode for high‐performance aqueous zinc‐ion batteries and beyond.