bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Neuropeptide Y Immunoreactivity and Vasoconstriction in Mesenteric Small Arteries from Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Gradin Kathryn A. , Li Jia-Yi , Andersson Ove , Simonsen Ulf
Published: August 2003

Enhanced sympathetic nerve activity is thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of hypertension. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the mechanisms underlying the enhanced vasocontractile response to perivascular stimulation of mesenteric arteries isolated from female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Innervation of mesenteric small arteries was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy while functional studies were conducted in a microvascular myograph. The distribution of nerve terminals immunoreactive for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) was similar in mesenteric small arteries from Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and SHR rats. However, immunointensity of TH or NPY immunoreactivities were much higher in small arteries from SHR compared to WKY. Expressed as percentage of contractions elicited by 124 mM K+, concentration-response curves for noradrenaline (NA) and NPY were shifted leftward in SHR compared with WKY rats. The combination of noradrenaline (1 µM) and NPY (10 nM) contracted mesenteric arteries from WKY and SHR to higher levels than compared to either contractile agent added alone. The NPY Y1 receptor antagonist, BIBP 3226, inhibited these contractions with 87 ± 0.7 and 80 ± 1.3% (p < 0.05, n = 6) in arteries from WKY and SHR rats, respectively. In arteries incubated with the α1-adrenoceptor antagonist, prazosin, and preactivated with vasopressin, electrical field stimulation evoked contractions which were more pronounced in mesenteric arteries from SHR compared to WKY rats. BIBP 3226 partially inhibited these contractions. In vasopressin-activated arteries BIBP 3226 caused rightward shifts of the concentration-response curves for NPY in mesenteric arteries from SHR rats, but in addition it also abolished the maximal NPY contraction in arteries from WKY rats. In the presence of BIBP 3226, low concentrations (1 pM to 10 nM) of NPY caused relaxations in arteries from WKY, but not in segments from SHR rats. Mechanical removal of the endothelium abolished NPY relaxation in arteries from WKY. In arteries activated with vasopressin and exposed to either forskolin or sodium nitroprusside, the addition of NPY evoked contractions which were more pronounced in arteries from SHR compared to WKY arteries. The present study suggests that enhanced NPY content and vasoconstriction to NPY in arteries from hypertensive rats can contribute to the enhanced sympathetic nerve activity and vascular resistance in female hypertensive rats. Endothelial cell dysfunction as well as alterations in smooth muscle response to NPY seem to contribute to the enhanced vasoconstriction in arteries from hypertensive animals.
Ethylene Oxide
Authors: Hill Peter J. , Wadman Sipke H. , Bishopp Simon D. , Wermink Thijs , Wells Gary J. , Lohr Tracy L. , Lockemeyer John R. , Rebsdat Siegfried , Mayer Dieter
Published: February 2025

The article contains sections titled:

1
Introduction

1.1
History

2
Physical Properties

3
Chemical Properties

3.1
Decomposition

3.2
Disproportionation

3.3
Addition to Compounds with a Labile Hydrogen Atom

3.4
Polymerization to Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)

3.5
Reaction with Water

3.6
Other Reactions

3.6.1
Addition to Double Bonds

3.6.2
Catalytic Isomerization to Acetaldehyde

3.6.3
Reaction with Grignard Reagents

3.6.4
Reaction with Dimethyl Ether

4
EO Production Technologies

4.1
EO History and Air Versus Oxygen Process

4.2
Oxygen‐Based Oxidation Process

4.3
Ethylene Epoxidation Catalysts

4.3.1
Catalyst Support Materials

4.3.2
EO Catalyst Development History

4.3.3
Aging of the Catalyst

4.3.4
Nature of Oxygen Species

4.3.4.1
Mechanism 1: Dioxygen as the Epoxidizing Species

4.3.4.2
Mechanism 2: Atomic Oxygen as the Epoxidizing Species

4.3.5
Kinetics

4.4
Key Technology Considerations

4.4.1
Reactor Tubes and Catalyst Bed

4.4.2
Water and Hydrocarbon Cooling

4.4.3
Reactor Conditions and Improvements

4.4.3.1
Methane Ballast Gas

4.4.3.2
Ethylene Recovery Systems

4.4.3.3
Carbon Dioxide Concentrations and Optimization

4.4.3.4
Inlet Oxygen Levels and Flammability

4.4.3.5
Intensification of Reactor Conditions

4.4.3.6
High Purity EO Production

4.4.4
Byproducts

4.4.5
Material of Construction

5
Uses

6
Quality Specifications and Analysis

6.1
Analysis

7
Safety Considerations

7.1
Explosion and Fire Control

7.2
Process Safety Hazard of Hydrolysis of Concentrated EO/Water Mixtures

7.3
Risk of Reaction due to Contaminants in Pure EO

8
Storage and Transportation

9
Economic Aspects

10
Toxicology and Occupational Health

10.1
Personal Protective Equipment

10.2
Toxicity

11
Environmental Protection and Ecology

12
Sustainability

References
Predictors of Mortality in Antiphospholipid Antibody Positive Patients: Prospective Results from Antiphospholipid Syndrome Alliance for Clinical Trials and International Networking (APS ACTION) Clinical Database and Repository (“Registry”)
Authors: Ahmadzadeh Yasaman , Magder Laurence S , de Andrade Danieli Castro Oliveira , Paredes‐Ruiz Diana , Tektonidou Maria G. , Pengo Vittorio , Sciascia Savino , Andreoli Laura , Signorelli Flávio , Fortin Paul R , Efthymiou Maria , Belmont H Michael , Barilaro Giuseppe , Clarke Ann E. , Atsumi Tatsuya , López‐Pedrera Chary , Knight Jason S. , Branch D. Ware , Willis Rohan , Kello Nina , Zhang Zhuoli , Rodriguez Almaraz Esther , Artim‐Esen Bahar , Pardos‐Gea Jose , Pons‐Estel Guillermo , Pazzola Giulia , Shi Hui , Duarte‐García Alí , Thaler Jonathan , Barber Megan R W , Skeith Leslie , Radin Massimo , Meroni Pier Luigi , Roubey Robert , Bertolaccini Maria Laura , Cohen Hannah , Petri Michelle , Erkan Doruk
Published: February 2025

Objective

The objective was to determine the mortality rate as well as the causes and predictors of mortality in antiphospholipid antibody (aPL)‐positive patients with/without APS classification.

Methods

The inclusion criteria for the multicenter international APS ACTION registry are positive aPL according to the Revised Sapporo Classification Criteria tested within one year prior to enrollment. Patients are followed every 12 ± 3 months with clinical data and blood collection. For this prospective analysis, firstly we analyzed the causes of death for patients reported as “deceased”. Secondly, we analyzed risk factors for mortality using adjusted Cox proportional hazards model, and calculated the survival probability by Kaplan‐Meier model based on different age groups.

Results

Of 967 patients, 43 (5%) were deceased after a median follow‐up of 5.3 years. Based on the univariate analysis, deceased patients, compared to non‐deceased, were more likely to be older and have a history of arterial thrombosis, catastrophic APS (CAPS), concomitant systemic autoimmune diseases (SAIDx), and baseline cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. Based on the cox proportional hazards model adjusted for age and for each of the strongest predictors of mortality, arterial thrombosis (HR 2.94, 95% CI 1.50‐5.76), concomitant SAIDx (HR 2.97, 95% 1.56‐5.63), and baseline any CVD risk factor (HR 2.43, 95% CI 1.05‐5.71) were significantly associated with mortality.

Conclusion

In our cohort of persistently aPL‐positive patients, the mortality rate was 5% after a median follow‐up of five years, highest for patients over 60 years‐old at registry entry. History of arterial thrombosis, concomitant SAIDx, and baseline any CVD risk factor independently predicted future mortality.
Geographic Clustering of Systemic Sclerosis in Areas of Environmental Pollution
Authors: Kosarek Noelle N. , Romano Megan , Moen Erika , Simms Robert W. , Erickson Ashleigh , Khanna Dinesh , Pioli Patricia A. , Whitfield Michael L.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis of the skin and other organs. SSc is thought to arise in genetically predisposed individuals with occupational triggers, although further environmental etiologies still need to be identified. Limited research exists detailing which environmental factors lead to the downstream inflammatory and fibrotic symptoms experienced by SSc patients across the United States. This study describes a retrospective cohort of 179,188 individuals with an SSc or SSc related diagnosis code enrolled in the Medicare beneficiary program between the years 2014‐2018.

Methods

The incidence of SSc and SSc related diagnosis codes in all United States (US) zip codes with beneficiary counts greater than 11 was calculated. We conducted global and local Moran's I as well as hot spot analysis with the Getis Ord Gi Static to determine if SSc and SSc related diagnosis codes exhibited clustered or dispersed patterns across the US. We identified clusters of SSc and SSc related diagnosis code high incidence in or around Superfund sites, which are federally identified areas of environmental contamination.

Results

SSc exhibited clustered patterns in two analyzed cohorts based on global Moran's I statistics of 0.588 and 0.521. Results of local Moran's I indicated clusters of disease in Mississippi, New York, Wisconsin, and Michigan, among others. Some zip codes with high disease incidence were home to at least one Superfund site.

Conclusions

SSc exhibits non‐random, clustered distributions in a US Medicare beneficiary cohort composed of 179,188 individuals from 2014‐2018.
Ribosomal Proteins as Exosomal Cargo: Random Passengers or Crucial Players in Carcinogenesis?
Authors: Graifer Dmitri , Malygin Alexey , Shefer Aleksei , Tamkovich Svetlana
Published: February 2025

Many ribosomal proteins (RPs) have functions beyond their canonical role as constituents of the ribosome. They often relate to human pathologies, primarily, to carcinogenesis, and the expression of specific RPs is considerably changed in malignant cells. On the other hand, extracellular vesicles (including exosomes), which provide intercellular communication by transporting specific molecular cargo from donor to recipient cells, often contain specific sets of RPs. Thus, one can assume that oncogenic properties of RPs can be transferred from one cell to another by exosomes. Such kind transfer has been already documented with RPS3 and gastric cancer cells. However, it remains largely unclear how widespread is the above effect and to which extent it contributes to the tumor progression and metastasis. To shed light on this issue, a comparative analysis of the sets of RPs found in exosomes and of the available data on oncogenic properties of these proteins is conducted.
In‐Situ Growth of 2D MOFs as a Molecular Sieving Layer on SnS2 Nanoflakes for Realizing Ultraselective H2S Detection
Authors: Lee Soo Min , Kim Yeong Jae , Park Seon Ju , Cheon Woo Seok , Kim Jaehyun , Nam Gi Baek , Kim Youngeun , Jang Ho Won
Published: February 2025

2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have emerged as promising materials for advanced gas sensing platforms owing to their abundant active edge sites, high surface area, and mechanical flexibility. However, TMDs encounter low selectivity issues as they show high responses to a variety of gases, impeding their practical use for gas discrimination. Herein, it is demonstrated that in situ growth of 2D breathable zeolitic imidazolate framework‐leaf (ZIF‐L) dramatically enhances the selectivity of 2D SnS2‐based gas sensors to H2S. ZIF‐L selectively allows the permeation of the target gas, H2S, while blocking interfering gases, including C3H9N, NH3, and volatile organic compounds. The ZIF‐L/SnS2 sensor shows ultrahigh response (1440% resistance change) and exceptional selectivity (response ratio > 10.2 about interfering gases) to 50 ppm of H2S with a low theoretical detection limit of 3.61 ppb. First‐principles calculations elucidate the molecular sieving effect of ZIF‐L, including size exclusion and adsorptive sieving, supporting the mechanism of the outstanding selectivity. Additionally, a monolithic and flexible ZIF‐L/SnS2 sensor using a polyethylene terephthalate substrate proves the potential of ZIF‐L/TMDs heterostructures for flexible applications. This study provides a novel and promising strategy for tuning gas selectivity and developing high‐performance flexible chemical sensors using a MOF‐based molecular sieving layer.
Self‐Compliant, Variation‐Suppressed Memristor Implemented with Carbon Nanotube/hBN/Silver Nanowire Cross‐Point Structure
Authors: Hu Jiayang , Li Baini , Wang Hailiang , Kang Yu , Zhao Yuda , Xu Yang , Shi Enzheng , Guo Yunfan , Xu Kai , Yu Bin
Published: February 2025

Implementing memristors for neuromorphic computing demands ultralow power, suppressed variations, and compact structure. Previously reported artificial neurons are mostly demonstrated with micrometer size in which the stochastic formation/rupture of conductive filaments leads to significant temporal and spatial variations. Additionally, external current compliance is commonly applied to ensure volatile switching behavior, inevitably increasing design complexity and power consumption due to auxiliary circuitry. Here, an ultra‐scaled volatile memristor is demonstrated using carbon nanotube (CNT)/hBN/silver nanowire (Ag NW) cross‐point structure with a conducting area of only 120 nm2. Owing to the nanoscale geometry for ion migration, the memristor exhibits suppressed cycle‐to‐cycle and device‐to‐device variations. Self‐compliant memristive behavior is achieved, simplifying the overall system design. Furthermore, the power consumption of the cross‐point memristor‐based neuron is drastically reduced. The results provide guidelines for tailoring the critical electrical behavior of geometry‐scaled memristor, generating practical understanding of ultra‐scaled memristor and its potential application in neuromorphic computing.
Engineering Cu‐In Dual‐Site Catalysts by Dynamic Reconstruction of Cu‐In‐S Quantum Dots for Efficient Electrochemical CO2 Conversion to Formate
Authors: Zhang Bo , Chang Yuan , Gao Junfeng , Hou Jungang
Published: February 2025

With the increasing consumption of fossil fuels emitting a large amount of CO2, electrocatalytic CO2 reduction (CO2RR) has become a promising way to reduce carbon emissions. Dual‐site catalysts have been identified as attractive materials for CO2RR, however, suffering from low selectivity and activity. Herein, Cu‐In‐S quantum dots have undergone in situ dynamic restructuring to construct Cu‐In dual‐site catalysts (Cu0.15In0.85 NPs) with highly catalytic activity toward CO2 electrochemical conversion. Cu0.15In0.85 NPs achieved a high Faraday efficiency of 92.3% for formate production at −1.45 V versus RHE, and a high formate partial current density of 245.4 mA cm−2 at −1.82 V versus RHE in a flow cell. In situ ATR‐SEIRAS spectroscopy and theoretical calculations indicated Cu dopants induced the charge transfer from Cu to In atoms to form the Cu‐In synergistic active sites, thus decreasing the formation energy of OCHO* and HCOOH* intermediates, as well as inhibiting the dissociation of water molecules. This work elucidates the optimization mechanism of the electronic structure for dual‐site catalysts and guides the fabrication of highly efficient electrocatalysts for formate production.
New Advances in Periodontal Functional Materials Based on Antibacterial, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Tissue Regeneration Strategies
Authors: Wu Haoyue , Li Yuanfeng , Shi Linqi , Liu Yong , Shen Jing
Published: February 2025

With the global population aging, awareness of oral health is rising. Periodontitis, a widespread bacterial infectious disease, is gaining attention. Current novel biomaterials address key clinical issues like bacterial infection, gum inflammation, tooth loosening, and loss, focusing on antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and tissue regeneration properties. However, strategies that integrate the advantages of these biomaterials to achieve synergistic therapeutic effects by clearing oral biofilms, inhibiting inflammation activation, and restoring periodontal soft and hard tissue functions remain very limited. Recent studies highlight the link between periodontitis and systemic diseases, underscoring the complexity of the periodontal disease. There is an urgent need to find comprehensive treatment plans that address clinical requirements. Whether by integrating new biomaterials to enhance existing periodontal treatments or by developing novel approaches to replace traditional therapies, these efforts will drive advancements in periodontitis treatment. Therefore, this review compares novel biomaterials with traditional treatments. It highlights the design concepts and mechanisms of these functional materials, focusing on their antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and tissue regeneration properties, and discusses the importance of developing comprehensive treatment strategies. This review aims to provide guidance for emerging periodontitis research and to promote the development of precise and efficient treatment strategies.
Supramolecular Chemistry in Metal–Organic Framework Materials
Authors: Miguel‐Casañ Eugenia , Orton Georgia R. F. , Schier Danielle E. , Champness Neil R.
Published: February 2025

Far from being simply rigid, benign architectures, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) exhibit diverse interactions with their interior environment. From developing crystal sponges to studying reactions in framework materials, the role of both supramolecular chemistry and framework structure is evident. We explore the role of supramolecular chemistry in determining framework…guest interactions and attempts to understand the dynamic behavior in MOFs, including attempts to control pore behavior through the incorporation of mechanically‐interlocked molecules. Appreciating and understanding the role of supramolecular interactions and dynamic behavior in metal–organic frameworks emerge as important directions for the field.
NIR‐II Fluorescent Thermophoretic Nanomotors for Superficial Tumor Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Jiang Jiwei , Hu Jing , Li Mingtong , Luo Mingzhi , Dong Bin , Sitti Metin , Yan Xiaohui
Published: February 2025

Peritumoral subcutaneous injection has been highly envisioned as an efficient yet low‐risk administration of photothermal agents for superficial tumor photothermal therapy. However, obstructed by complex subcutaneous tissue, the delivery of injected photothermal agents to the specific tumor remains a critical issue. Herein, the study reports a polydopamine (PDA)‐encapsulated spherical core/shell nanomotor with fluorescent indocyanine green (ICG) immobilized on its PDA shell. Upon the first near‐infrared (NIR‐I) irradiation, this motor can generate favorable photothermal heat, and meantime, emit a robust ICG fluorescence in the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II). The heat turns the motor into an active photothermal agent able to perform thermophoretic propulsion along the irradiation direction in subcutaneous tissue, while the ICG fluorescence can direct the subcutaneous propulsion of motors toward specific tumor through real‐time NIR‐II imaging. These functions endow the motor with the ability of moving to tumor after being injected at peritumoral site, enabling an enhanced photothermal therapy (PTT). The results demonstrated herein suggest an integrated nanorobotic tool for the superficial PTT using peritumoral administration, highlighting an NIR‐II imaging‐directed subcutaneous propulsion.
Leather Solid Waste–Derived Collagen Polypeptide Based Foam for the Sustainable and Clean Production of Foam‐Based Extinguishing Agents
Authors: Yang Mao , Wang Chunxia , Ji Xingxiang , Dang Xugang
Published: February 2025

Herein, a novel leather solid waste–derived collagen polypeptide (CP)–based foam (CF) is developed with good chemical stability, good degradability, considerably poor metal corrosive properties, and high‐efficiency fire‐extinguishing properties. The developed CP is used as a raw material to obtain CF via free‐radical emulsion polymerization using maleic anhydride and oleic acrylic resins. Thereafter, a foam‐based extinguishing agent (FP) with ideal flame retardant properties is synthesized by blending the obtained CF with common and fluorine‐containing (sodium perfluoro nonyloxybenzenesulfonate) surfactants. The prepared materials are characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, fire‐extinguishing effect, and other analytical techniques. Results show that the synthesized FP exhibited good thermal and chemical stabilities as well as considerably low cytotoxicity and biotoxicity. A spreading test and preliminary fire‐extinguishing test on an oil surface indicated that the FP has a relatively high spreading speed and good air‐insulation performance. In particular, compared with that of a traditional extinguishing agent, the full spreading time of 7‐FP is 40% lower, with the total extinguishing time being 28 s. Overall, the results suggested that the prepared CP materials are effective extinguishing agents and may have notable value in various fireproofing applications.
Accelerating Desolvation Process and Achieving Dendrite‐Free Zn Anode Via Dielectric Filler‐assisted Artificial Hybrid Interphase
Authors: Li Canglong , Huang Jie , Chen Dongping , Li Jiexiang , Cheng Yuanzi , You Tiancheng , Huang Shaozhen , Yu Huaming , Huang Yang , Li Guanghui , Chen Yuejiao
Published: February 2025

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) have garnered significant interest for their potential in large‐scale energy storage, attributed to their high safety and low cost. Nonetheless, issues such as limited cycling lifespan and low coulombic efficiency (CE) associated with dendrite formation and uncontrollable side reactions on the Zn metal anode pose challenges that restrict their practical applications. Herein, a dielectric filler‐assisted artificial hybrid interphase is constructed on the Zn anode surface to address the challenges faced by the Zn anode in aqueous electrolytes. TiO2 nanoparticles with special dielectric properties promote the solvation process and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) acts as a physical barrier for suppressing the adverse reactions and blocking the dendrite. Consequently, a symmetric cell using a modified zinc anode achieves a prolonged cycle life of over 2500 h at 1 and 1 mAh cm−2. Furthermore, the full cell with a vanadium‐based cathode delivers excellent electrochemical performance (over 600 cycles at 1 A g−1). This research offers an efficient and scalable approach to enhance the performance of Zn metal anodes.
Targeting FDFT1 Reduces Cholesterol and Bile Acid Production and Delays Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression Through the HNF4A/ALDOB/AKT1 Axis
Authors: Cai Dong , Zhong Guo‐Chao , Dai Xin , Zhao Zhibo , Chen Menglin , Hu Jiejun , Wu Zhenru , Cheng Lve , Li Shengwei , Gong Jianping
Published: February 2025

Targeting cholesterol metabolism is a novel direction for tumor therapy. Unfortunately, the current use of statins for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is controversial. Herein, farnesyl‐diphosphate farnesyltransferase 1 (FDFT1) is identified as a novel target for treating HCC and a potential alternative to statins. Twenty‐three key genes in cholesterol biosynthesis are screened, and FDFT1 is identified via public databases (The Cancer Genome Atlas, International Cancer Genome Consortium and Gene Expression Omnibus). Clinical samples reveal that FDFT1 is highly expressed in HCC tissues, and this phenotype is strongly associated with a poor prognosis. Functionally, FDFT1 knockdown inhibits the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells and suppresses hepatocarcinogenesis in vitro and in vivo, whereas FDFT1 overexpression promotes HCC cell proliferation and metastasis. Mechanistically, FDFT1 downregulation decreases cholesterol and bile acid levels and then increases hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4A) transcriptional activity. Experiments indicate that HNF4A combines with the promoter of aldolase B (ALDOB) and promotes the ALDOB transcription and that ALDOB combines with AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1) and inhibits AKT1 phosphorylation. Moreover, FDFT1 knockdown combined with AKT inhibitor (AZD5363) treatment shows remarkable therapeutic potential. FDFT1 inhibition reduces cholesterol and bile acid levels to delay HCC progression through the HNF4A/ALDOB/AKT1 axis. Thus, targeting FDFT1 may be a novel potential strategy for treating HCC.
Ultrasound Super‐Resolution Imaging of Neonatal Cerebral Vascular Reorganization
Authors: Schwarz Simone , Denis Louise , Nedoschill Emmanuel , Buehler Adrian , Danko Vera , Hilger Alina C. , Brevis Nuñez Francisco , Dürr Nikola R. , Schlunz‐Hendann Martin , Brassel Friedhelm , Felderhoff‐Müser Ursula , Reutter Heiko , Woelfle Joachim , Jüngert Jörg , Dohna‐Schwake Christian , Bruns Nora , Regensburger Adrian P. , Couture Olivier , Mandelbaum Henriette , Knieling Ferdinand
Published: February 2025

During the first days of neonatal growth, the central nervous system (CNS) develops self‐regulatory mechanisms to ensure constant cerebral perfusion. However, this vascular neogenesis takes place at a microscopic scale that cannot be observed with current clinical imaging techniques. Ultrasound localization microscopy (ULM) allows us to observe micro‐vessels of the order of a few microns at depths of several centimeters. This can be done using conventional clinical ultrasound scanners and contrast sequences (CEUS). In this study, ULM is used to observe the human microvasculature in neonatal patients undergoing treatment for life‐threatening malformations forming direct connections between the cerebral arterial and venous systems. It is observed that neuroendovascular treatment of neonatal arteriovenous malformations causes remodeling and reorganization of the cerebral vasculature by also activating corticomedullary vascular connections. ULM enables us to follow microvascular changes in human neonates with high spatio‐temporal resolution. ULM may provide a novel clinical translatable tool, particularly including cerebral imaging in very young patients.
Highly Selective Acidic CO2 Electroreduction with Large Current on Polypyrrole‐Modified Ag Catalyst by Local Microenvironment Modulation
Authors: Wang Zhenhui , Wang Weizhou , Yang Qin , Geng Yanling , Du Yunmei , Liu Kang , Wu Zexing , Lai Jianping , Li Bin , Li Hongdong , Zheng Gengfeng , Wang Lei
Published: February 2025

Electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction (CO2RR) holds great promise for carbon capture and utilization. In acidic media, CO2RR enables efficient CO2 conversion, but with low selectivity due to the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and catalyst corrosion. Herein, conductive polymer polypyrrole (PPy) coated Ag nanoparticles (NPs) catalysts (Ag@PPy) with different thicknesses are designed and synthesized, which could create a hydrophobic environment that reduces the accessibility of H2O to the Ag NPs thereby inhibiting HER. The coating of the PPy layer also protects the catalysts from corrosion and improves the stability of the system. Among them, Ag@PPy‐2 with the appropriate thickness showed up to 91.7% for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO and high durability in acidic electrolyte at −300 mA cm−2. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation shows that Ag nanoparticles coated with PPy not only inhibit the competitive HER, but also reduce the CO2RR energy barrier, and improve the efficiency of CO2 to CO. This study may provide some new ideas for the design of advanced selective electrocatalytic CO2 reduction catalysts by local microenvironmental engineering.
High‐Performance Photoactive Polymers: Innovations in Ternary Polymerization for Solar Applications
Authors: Fang Yu , Huang Bin , Wang Xiaoping , Que Mingming , Liu Jinbiao , Li Liqing , Jeong Sang Young , Zhang Jialin , Lan Ai , Woo Han Young , Chen Shanshan , Chen Lie , Yang Changduk
Published: February 2025

In recent years, polymer solar cells (PSCs) have achieved rapid progress, with power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) reaching up to 20.25%, driven by significant advancements in device fabrication and active‐layer materials. The ternary polymerization strategy has proven to be a straightforward and effective approach for developing high‐performance photoelectric polymers by incorporating a third monomer into the polymer backbone. This incorporation effectively optimizes intrinsic photoelectric properties, including UV–vis absorption, energy levels, solubility, crystallinity, morphology, charge transfer, mechanical robustness, batch‐to‐batch reproducibility, and device stability. This review highlights the latest advancements in the ternary polymerization strategy for designing high‐performance photoactive copolymers (both ternary polymer donors and acceptors), with a particular focus on batch‐to‐batch reproducibility, stability, and potential applications in commercial development. The aim is to provide valuable guidance for the development of high‐performance photoelectric polymer materials using the ternary polymerization strategy.
Reaching New Efficiency Milestones in Low‐Speed Wind Energy Harvesting via Noncontact Stackable Ion‐Gate‐Based Static Discharge Generator
Authors: Chung Seh‐Hoon , Hur Jiwoong , Kim Seokjin , Cha Kyunghwan , Ryu Hanwook , Lin Zong‐Hong , Kim Dongseob , Hong Jinkee , Chung Jihoon , Lee Sangmin
Published: February 2025

Wind energy harvesting is attracting increasing interest owing to the growing global electric energy production. However, energy generation using existing wind turbines is deficient compared to the potential of wind energy owing to less‐efficient wind turbines operating at low wind speeds. Therefore, an ion‐gate‐based static discharge generator (ISDG) with a charge suppliance turbine (CST) for efficient low‐speed wind energy harvesting is introduced. CST comprises a charge suppliance rotator (CSR) and Savonius wind blades, where the CSR generates electrical charges for inducing Townsend discharge at the ion gate; thus, the current output gets enhanced owing to an avalanche effect. Additionally, the CSR in the CST can be operated with a stacked structure and noncontact movement, allowing the device to generate high power with a low input. Thus, an ISDG comprising CST can generate electricity with wind blowing at 3 and 4 m s−1 at high efficiencies of 21.9% and 32.8%, respectively.
MXene‐Enhanced Metal–Organic Framework‐Derived CoP Nanocomposites as Highly Efficient Trifunctional Electrocatalysts for OER, HER, and ORR
Authors: Farooq Komal , Yang Zhuxian , Murtaza Maida , Naseeb Muhammad Ahsan , Waseem Amir , Zhu Yanqiu , Xia Yongde
Published: February 2025

Developing robust active electrocatalysts from readily available earth‐abundant elements for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) remains an unresolved challenge. Herein, Ti3C2Tx MXene‐containing metal–organic framework‐derived CoP nanocomposite electrocatalysts are successfully prepared by phosphidation of in situ‐produced ZIF‐67/MXene composite precursor at various heat treatment temperatures. The obtained nanocomposite catalysts are characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field emission‐scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy/EDS. In the produced composites, Ti3C2Tx MXene functions as a supportive substrate to facilitate mass transfer, as well as ion transport, and to improve electrical conductivity. Moreover, the introduction of MXene into the heterostructured CoP@C/Ti3C2Tx enables it to expose and provide extra active sites for electrochemical reactions. The as‐prepared CoP@C/MXene‐360 (abbreviated as CPMX‐360) nanocomposite is a promising trifunctional electrocatalyst toward OER, HER, and ORR. CPMX‐360 exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity with an overpotential of 235 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in OER, an overpotential of 220 mV at −10 mA cm−2 in HER, and an Eonset and E1/2 of 0.82 and 0.74 V in ORR, respectively. This research provides a viable method to develop nonprecious trifunctional electrocatalyst via phosphidation of metal–organic framework and MXene with excellent performance for OER, HER, and ORR.
Assessment of Food Sources for Juvenile and Adult Penaeus monodon in Tanzania Coastal Waters
Authors: Simtoe Ambakisye P. , Lugendo Blandina R. , Mgaya Yunus D.
Published: February 2025

To investigate the food sources for juvenile and adult Penaeus monodon and reconstruct its diet, samples of potential food sources were collected from the nursery areas of Kondo, Mbegani and Kitame, as well as from the fishing grounds of Mwambakuni and Saadani, located in the Bagamoyo coastal waters of Tanzania in the Western Indian Ocean. The carbon and nitrogen isotopic ratios of both P. monodon muscle tissues and their respective potential food sources were determined from samples collected during the Northeast Monsoon (NEM, September–October) and Southeast Monsoon (SEM, April–May), representing the dry and wet seasons, respectively. P. monodon muscles exhibited a wide range of δ13C values from −20.87‰ to −12.22‰ (average of −16.23‰, n = 6) during NEM, alongside a narrower range of δ15N values from 5.32‰ to 8.86‰ (average of 6.63, n = 6). Similarly, during SEM, δ13C values ranged from −20.68‰ to −15.59‰ (average of −17.47‰, n = 6), while δ15N values ranged from 5.32‰ to 8.55‰ (average of 7.05‰, n = 6). Different size classes displayed distinct δ13C with a range of −8.27‰ but were closely related in δ15N, exhibiting an average range of only 2.66‰. The contributions of carbon and nitrogen from mangrove and terrestrial sources were found to be negligible as food sources for P. monodon across both seasons. However, both juvenile and adult P. monodon significantly relied on seagrass ecosystems for their food, with minimal connectivity (p ˂ 0.05) between the nursery and fishing grounds. Furthermore, it was observed that the primary carbon sources for P. monodon included shellfish (prawns), sergestid shrimps, plankton and algae during the SEM, with a slight shift towards algae and polychaetes during the NEM. Notably, P. monodon specialized in a specific food source during NEM, with juveniles showing significantly higher levels of cannibalism compared to adults.
Integrin‐Targeted, Activatable Nanophototherapeutics for Immune Modulation: Enhancing Photoimmunotherapy Efficacy in Prostate Cancer Through Macrophage Reprogramming
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Yin Xiaolan , Hao Lei , Wang Yumei , Dou Linqiang , Chen Qixian , Lee Jun‐Seok , Wang Jingyun , Peng Xiaojun , Yoon Juyoung , Li Haidong
Published: February 2025

Prostate cancer is an epithelial malignancy with a high incidence among elderly men. Photochemistry‐based dye photodrugs (known as photosensitizers) offer a promising clinical approach for treating tumors. These agents work by inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD), which activates antitumor immune response. This approach is favored owing to its minimal invasiveness, low toxicity, and high efficiency. However, the immunosuppressive microenvironment of characteristics of “cold” tumors significantly restricts the clinical efficacy of photodrugs. Developing an advanced nanocarrier system to deliver photodrugs and immune agonists for efficient drug delivery to tumor lesion sites and to reshape the immunosuppressive microenvironment is crucial in clinical practice. Therefore, in this study, we designed an integrin‐targeted, activatable nano photodrug co‐assembly with an immune agonist (RPST@IMQ) for enhancing photoimmunotherapy in prostate cancer via the reprogramming of tumor‐associated macrophages. The active‐targeted nanosystem enhanced the dosage of photodrug at the lesion site through systemic administration. High doses of glutathione at the tumor site cleaved the disulfide bonds of RPST@IMQ, releasing the photodrug and the immune agonist imiquimod (IMQ). Under photoirradiation, the photodrug generated significant doses of singlet oxygen to eliminate tumor cells, thereby inducing ICD to activate antitumor immune responses. Simultaneously, the released IMQ reprograms immunosuppressive M2‐type tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment into M1‐type TAMs with tumor‐killing capabilities, thereby converting “cold” tumors into “hot” tumors. This conversion enhances the therapeutic efficacy against primary and distant tumors in vivo. This study offers new insights into the development of innovative, smart, activatable nano photodrugs to enhance anticancer therapeutic outcomes.
PairTilt: Design and Control of an Active Tilt‐Rotor Quadcopter for Improved Efficiency and Agility
Authors: Tang Jerry , Mueller Mark W.
Published: February 2025

This article presents PairTilt, a novel quadcopter design with two pairs of tiltable rotors, offering a balance between the simplicity of conventional quadcopters and the agility of complex tilt‐rotor systems. Despite being underactuated, with lateral motion not directly controlled, this design reduces complexity and energy consumption. The coupling of rotors reduces angular momentum issues, enhancing stability and efficiency without the challenges associated with tilting each motor individually, which would require higher servo torque due to significant gyroscopic torques. PairTilt's tiltable rotors enable agile maneuvers in confined spaces and reduce drag in high‐speed flight, extending operational range. The system's dynamics are analyzed, and a cascaded controller is implemented to ensure stable flight across various scenarios. Simulations and real‐world tests validate its superior agility, compact hovering, sensor pointing, and energy efficiency compared to conventional quadcopters. The primary contribution of this work lies in PairTilt's distinctive design, which achieves a unique balance of simplicity, efficiency, and agility. This balance is made possible by the pairwise rotor coupling, which reduces complexity and gyroscopic torque effects, and the prioritization of key degrees of freedom. This design approach opens new possibilities for aerial robotics applications requiring both maneuverability and efficient high‐speed flight.
Unlocking Dynamic Subtle Stimuli Tactile Perception: A Deep Learning‐Enhanced Super‐Resolution Tactile Sensor Array with Rapid Response
Authors: Zhou Shuyao , Kong Depeng , Wang Mengke , Wang Baocheng , Lu Yuyao , Lyu Honghao , Lu Zhangli , Tao Yong , Xu Kaichen , Yang Geng
Published: February 2025

Human skin's touch perception, mediated by mechanoreceptors, can perceive tactile stimuli with a spatial resolution higher than the average spacing between mechanoreceptors, known as super‐resolution. This characteristic enables its sensitivity to both stimulus location and velocity. However, existing robotic tactile sensors lag behind human tactile perception, failing to achieve high spatial resolution and rapid response simultaneously. This significantly hinders robots from executing accurate, time‐sensitive interaction tasks, particularly during dynamic slight‐contact events. Here, a 130 μm‐thick flexible tactile sensor array is designed, with spatial resolution enhanced by a tailored deep learning model, multistage attention‐based adaptive spatial–temporal graph convolutional networks (MS‐AASTGCN), simultaneously achieving a dynamic response of ≈30 ms and a super‐resolution factor of 75.19. The tactile sensor array, based on single‐electrode triboelectric nanogenerators, can detect dynamic subtle stimuli. It features a bio‐inspired topological structure, facilitating super‐resolution performance while offering a large perception area with low sensor (taxel) density. Additionally, the MS‐AASTGCN enhances positioning resolution by extracting features fromsensing data and revealing the hidden relationships among taxels. This research provides new insights into haptic perception systems, enabling the execution of precise, time‐sensitive interaction tasks, such as tracking a bouncing table tennis ball.
Selbstorganisation von ZIF‐8‐Nanopartikeln zu “Brick‐and‐Mortar”‐Membranen für die Wasserstofftrennung durch ein Zink‐Koordinations‐Polymer
Authors: Li Xinxin , Jiao Chengli , Zhang Xiaoqian , Xu Xiaoya , Gul Saeed , Liang Fangyi , Caro Jürgen , Jiang Heqing
Published: February 2025

Die MOF (metal‐organic framework) Struktur ZIF‐8 (zeolitic imidazolate framework) besitzt eine vergleichsweise hohe Stabilität und permanente Porosität mit einem kristallographischen Porendurchmesser von 3,4 Å, was sie daher zu einem vielversprechenden Kandidaten für Wasserstoff‐Trennmembranen macht. Die meisten polykristallinen ZIF‐8‐Membranen weisen jedoch eine geringe H2/CO2‐Mischgas‐Selektivität (kinetische Durchmesser von 2,9/3,3 Å) auf, was auf die interkristallinen Strukturdefekte und zusätzlich auf die Gerüstflexibilität der ZIF‐8‐Struktur mit einer theoretischen Aperturgröße von 3,4 Å zurückzuführen ist. Inspiriert von der “Brick‐and‐Mortar”‐Struktur von Perlmutt entwickeln wir hier eine Mixed Matrix Membran, bei der kristalline ZIF‐8‐Nanopartikel (Ziegel) durch ein ultradünnes Zink‐Koordinationspolymer als Zwischenschicht (Mörtel) miteinander durch Selbstorganisation verbunden sind. Durch Koordinationsbindungen zwischen Zn2+ und verzweigtem Polyethylenimin (PEI) wird ein Zink‐Koordinationspolymer‐Netzwerk gebildet. Die Zn2+‐Ionen dieses Koordinationspolymers treten in starke Wechselwirkung mit den terminalen Oberflächen‐OH‐Gruppen der ZIF‐8‐Nanopartikel, wodurch interkristalline Defekte in Form von Hohlräumen eliminiert werden. Insbesondere die Transportwege durch das Koordinationspolymer aber auch durch die ZIF‐8‐Kristalle sind H2‐selektiv. Die ZIF‐8‐PEI‐Mixed Matrix Membran zeigt einen schnellen und hochselektiven Wasserstofftransport: Die H2‐Permeabilität beträgt ~1,8×105 Barrer und die H2/CO2‐Selektivität des Mischgases 176, was den Stand der Technik weit übertrifft. Diese bioinspirierte multifunktionale Membran erweitert den Anwendungsbereich von Molekularsiebmembranen.
Activatable Photosensitizers: From Fundamental Principles to Advanced Designs
Authors: Kwon Nahyun , Weng Hanyi , Rajora Maneesha A. , Zheng Gang
Published: February 2025

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising treatment that uses light to excite photosensitizers in target tissue, producing reactive oxygen species and localized cell death. It is recognized as a minimally invasive, clinically approved cancer therapy with additional preclinical applications in arthritis, atherosclerosis, and infection control. A hallmark of ideal PDT is delivering disease‐specific cytotoxicity while sparing healthy tissue. However, conventional photosensitizers often suffer from non‐specific photoactivation, causing off‐target toxicity. Activatable photosensitizers (aPS) have emerged as more precise alternatives, offering controlled activation. Unlike traditional photosensitizers, they remain inert and photoinactive during circulation and off‐target accumulation, minimizing collateral damage. These photosensitizers are designed to “turn on” in response to disease‐specific biostimuli, enhancing therapeutic selectivity and reducing off‐target effects. This review explores the principles of aPS, including quenching mechanisms stemming from activatable fluorescent probes and applied to activatable photosensitizers (RET, PeT, ICT, ACQ, AIE), as well as pathological biostimuli (pH, enzymes, redox conditions, cellular internalization), and bioresponsive constructs enabling quenching and activation. We also provide a critical assessment of unresolved challenges in aPS development, including limitations in targeting precision, selectivity under real‐world conditions, and potential solutions to persistent issues (dual‐lock, targeting moieties, biorthogonal chemistry and artificial receptors). Additionally, it provides an in‐depth discussion of essential research design considerations needed to develop translationally relevant aPS with improved therapeutic outcomes and specificity.
Novel Humidity‐Responsive Nanofiber Film Based on Emulsion Electrospinning for Fruit Preservation
Authors: Cui Zhenhua , Ren Gaihuan , Li Dongxiang , Lu Dongxu , Zheng Xianglong , Zhao Yanchao , Zhang Yunhe , Hu Shenpeng , Sun Wen , Yu Hongqin , Zhou Weitao
Published: February 2025

The stimuli‐responsive active packaging materials have attracted large attention while using a simple method to prepare stimuli‐responsive active packaging materials remains a challenge. Herein, humidity‐responsive core‐shell poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL)‐citral nanofiber film was successfully prepared via simple emulsion electrospinning. The active substance citral was encapsulated in the core of the PVA/PCL‐citral nanofiber. The controllable release of citral from the core‐shell PVA/PCL‐citral nanofiber film was achieved by changing the microenvironment's humidity due to the PVA shell's swelling in high humidity. The PVA/PCL‐citral nanofiber film exhibited excellent antioxidant capacity with an ABTS free radical scavenging percentage of 88%. The nanofiber film also inhibited Escherichia coli (ATCC 29213) and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25922) with antimicrobial rates of 99.99% and 99.98%, respectively. A study on the biocompatible nanofiber film as packaging material was conducted on apricots, and the shelf life of apricots was extended to 9 days. Therefore, the humidity‐responsive PVA/PCL‐citral nanofiber film fabricated in this study has good application potential in antioxidant and antimicrobial packaging.
Carbon Quantum Dot Nanoparticles Enhance the Efficacy of Spodoptera littoralis Nucleopolyhedrovirus Suspoemulsion
Authors: Mehrvar Ali , Ghanbari Solmaz , Söylemezoğlu Gökhan , Toprak Umut
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the efficacy of Spodoptera littoralis nucleopolyhedrovirus (SpliNPV) and laboratory‐synthesized carbon quantum dot nanoparticles (CQDNPs) against the second instar Spodoptera littoralis larvae under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. Individually, both SpliNPV and CQDNPs exhibited substantial lethality (91.6% and 83.3% at 1 × 108 OBs/ml and 700 mg/ml, respectively) (p < 0.05). The LC50 values were 1.88 × 105 OB/ml and 434.2 mg/mL, and the LT50 values were 8.9 and 9.8 days, respectively. Four LC‐based combined treatments demonstrated significant additive effects, with the SpliNPV (LC50) + CQDNPs (LC25) combination achieving the optimum effect with a mortality rate of 86.3% and an LT50 value of 6.6 days, leading to its selection for the suspoemulsion nanoparticle (SENP) formulation. The SENP formulation displayed superior performance, achieving the highest mortality rates and fastest killing times across all environments: 89.0% in laboratory conditions, 83.3% on eggplant plants, and 76.6% on pepper plants. In contrast, the suspoemulsion (SE) and unformulated (UF) formulations showed lower efficacy, emphasizing the importance of formulation in enhancing the biological activity of SpliNPV. The LT50 values further supported these findings, with the SENP formulation demonstrating the shortest LT50 values, indicating faster lethality. A significant decrease in CHS‐B, IIM2, PER3, REPAT14, and CDA1 expression was observed, particularly in the combined CQDNPs + SpliNPV treatment, while API expression increased significantly. These findings highlight the potential of nanoparticle‐enhanced formulations like SENP, and integrating CQDNPs with SpliNPV can significantly enhance pest control efficacy.