bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rhodamine B‐Derived Low‐Toxicity Full‐Color Carbon Dots with Wide Tunable High‐Stable Liquid‐State Lasers
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , Ren Xueyan , Zhao Xinran , Ding Shurong , Wu Xueting , Liu Yue , Zeng Xiao , Qu Xiaoli , Song Haoqiang , Hu Yongsheng , Shi Linlin , Lu Siyu
Published: February 2025

Carbon dots (CDs) serve as a novel, non‐toxic, cost‐effective, and highly‐stable solution‐processable nanolaser material. However, compared to commonly used commercial laser dyes, CDs exhibit lower photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs), radiation transition rates, and gain coefficients. Consequently, this leads to higher laser thresholds that significantly impede the expansion of practical applications for CDs. Therefore, enhancing the gain performance of CDs is crucial in guiding the design of CD gain materials and promoting their practical applications. Herein, Rhodamine B (RhB) is employed as a sole precursor for the synthesis of full‐color CDs (FCDs) with vibrant blue, green, yellow, red, and NIR (denoted as B‐CDs, G‐CDs, Y‐CDs, R‐CDs, and NIR‐CDs) fluorescence through cross‐linking, polymerization, and carbonization processes. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra ranged from 434 to 703 nm. Notably, the PLQYs and gain performance of FCDs are improved due to cross‐linked enhanced emission (CEE) effects. Green, yellow, red, and NIR laser emission is achieved with lower laser thresholds and exhibited superior laser stabilities than RhB. Furthermore, cytotoxicity tests confirm that FCDs possess significantly lower toxicity than RhB. This study not only validates the applicability of CEE in CDs for developing multicolor gain materials but also advances the practical application of miniaturized lasers based on CDs.
Mitochondrial Transplantation via Magnetically Responsive Artificial Cells Promotes Intracerebral Hemorrhage Recovery by Supporting Microglia Immunological Homeostasis
Authors: Zhou Mi , Zang Jinhui , Qian Yuxuan , Zhang Qiang , Wang Yifan , Yao Tingting , Yan Hongyu , Zhang Kai , Cai Xiaojun , Jiang Lixian , Zheng Yuanyi
Published: February 2025

The immune‐inflammatory responses in the brain represent a key therapeutic target to ameliorate brain injury following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), where pro‐inflammatory microglia and its mitochondrial dysfunction plays a pivotal role. Mitochondrial transplantation is a promising strategy to improve the cellular mitochondrial function and thus modulate their immune properties. However, the transplantation of naked mitochondria into the brain has been constrained by the peripheral clearance and the difficulty in achieving selective access to the brain. Here, a novel strategy for mitochondrial transplantation via intravenous injection of magnetically responsive artificial cells (ACs) are proposed. ACs can protect the loaded mitochondria and selectively accumulate around the lesion under an external magnetic field (EMF). In this study, mitochondria released from ACs can effectively improve microglial mitochondrial function, attenuate their pro‐inflammatory attributes, and elevate the proportion of immunosuppressive microglia. In this way, microglia immune homeostasis in the brain is reestablished, and inflammation is attenuated, ultimately promoting functional recovery. This study presents an effective approach to transplant mitochondria into the brain, offering a promising alternative to modulate the immune‐inflammatory cascade in the brain following ICH.
Enabling low Threshold Laser Through an Asymmetric Tetramer Metasurface Harnessing Polarization‐Independent Quasi‐BICs
Authors: Wang Tao , Di Weizheng , Sha W. E. I. , Proietti Zaccaria Remo
Published: February 2025

It is proposed and numerically demonstrated a novel strategy to achieve lasing generation from a dual‐band symmetry‐protected bound states in the continuum (BICs) based on a nanodisk tetramer metasurface. The method involves breaking the in‐plane symmetry of the metasurface unit cell by the simple introduction of air holes in the tetramers. The numerical results show that this easy to fabricate solution enables the support of dual‐band BICs in the telecom‐band range, with these modes evolving into quasi‐BICs with remarkably high quality factors. Furthermore, the resulting device exhibits the unique characteristic of being polarization‐independent across all viewing angles. Finally, the adopted gain medium provides sufficient optical gain to compensate the quasi‐BIC mode losses, enabling two mode lasing with ultra‐low pump threshold and very narrow optical linewidth. This work paves the way for polarization‐independent metasurfaces with multiple lasing resonances, holding the potential to transform areas such as low‐threshold lasing and biosensing by delivering improved performance and broader capabilities.
High Throughput Screening of CMAS Corrosion‐Resistant RETaO4 Based on Lamination Method
Authors: Tian Zhilin , Chen Zhilin , Wen Shuping , Zhao Wenxia , Zheng Liya , Li Bin
Published: February 2025

Rare earth tantalates (RETaO4), known for their exceptional thermomechanical properties, are promising candidates for next‐generation thermal barrier coatings (TBCs). However, the role of rare earth (RE) species in the CMAS (calcium‐magnesium‐aluminosilicate) corrosion behavior and mechanisms of RETaO4 remains unclear, hindering their design and application as TBCs. This study employs a high‐throughput approach to systematically investigate the CMAS corrosion mechanisms of RETaO4 (RE = Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ho, Y, and Er) at 1300 °C. Precise analysis of the microstructure and composition reveal that the primary corrosion products are (Ca2‐xREx)(Ta2‐y‐zMgyAlz)O7 solid solutions, along with minor amounts of Ca2RE8(SiO4)6O2 apatite. These corrosion products are observed both in the recession layer and at grain boundaries. The CMAS infiltration depth of RETaO4 increases with the RE ionic radius. First‐principles calculations indicate that the formation enthalpy of corrosion products becomes more exothermic as the RE ionic radius increases, promoting the formation of corrosion products. Additionally, the wetting behavior of liquid CMAS on RETaO4 at high temperatures supports that RETaO4 with smaller RE ionic radius present better corrosion resistance. These findings provide insights into the influence of RE species on the CMAS corrosion behavior of RETaO4, offering guidelines for the rapid screening of CMAS‐resistant TBC materials.
Treatment of Relapsed/Refractory AML—Novel Treatment Options Including Immunotherapy
Authors: Moore Catherine Gutierrez , Stein Anthony , Fathi Amir T. , Pullarkat Vinod
Published: February 2025

Acute myeloid leukemia is a molecularly heterogenous disease caused by the rapid expansion and impaired differentiation of malignant myeloid progenitors. Overall, outcomes remain poor, and more than half of patients develop relapsed or refractory disease after front‐line therapy. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT) remains the best chance for cure for eligible patients, and the development of novel therapies including BCL2, FLT3, IDH1/2 and menin inhibitors, which are efficacious yet generally more tolerable, have enabled better bridging to prompt HCT. Despite the early success of targeted therapies, more generalized and efficacious therapeutic approaches remain in need, and numerous targeted immunotherapeutic agents (including CAR‐T, bispecific and trispecific antibody therapies) are currently under investigation.
Using 3D Photogrammetry to Quantify Usable Space in Zoo‐Housed Primate Habitats
Authors: Ritzler Charles P. , Mather Stephen V. , Johnson India T. , Dennis Patricia M. , Lukas Kristen E. , Koester Diana C.
Published: February 2025

Studies of zoo animal space use typically use ground‐level measurements as a proxy for “usable space,” but this method ignores above ground areas that are behaviorally relevant to arboreal species. Previous work has proposed different methods to calculate usable above ground space, but each has presented different limitations, ranging from the estimation of areas of dense complexity to the significant manual effort needed to physically measure spaces. To address these limitations, we tested a new, 3D photogrammetry‐based method (“3DP method”) for calculating usable space in the habitats of two zoo‐housed primate species (crowned lemur [Eulemur coronatus], and Bornean orangutan [Pongo pygmaeus]). 3D photogrammetry generates a 3D point cloud and subsequent mesh, using physically captured images, with geometric, measurable properties. Our method was compared to a previously published method, based in SketchUp, (“MSU method”) for both quantification of usable space (surface area, volume) and efficiency of model generation (active and passive work required). The 3DP method generated similar results for both usable surface area and volume for the crowned lemur habitat, while requiring 82% less active work from the user. Furthermore, the 3DP method was able to calculate usable space in a habitat (Bornean orangutan) that was 13,274% larger than the crowned lemur habitat, and substantially larger than any habitat where the MSU method has been applied in published work. Overall, the 3DP method decreased the ratio of active to passive work required for calculating usable space in zoo habitats with complex vertical space, and is flexible enough to be applied to habitats of varying sizes.
Superconducting Diode Effects: Mechanisms, Materials and Applications
Authors: Ma Jiajun , Zhan Ruiya , Lin Xiao
Published: February 2025

Superconducting diode effects (SDEs) generally emerge in superconducting systems where both time‐reversal and inversion symmetries are broken, showing nonreciprocal current characteristics: nondissipative in one direction and ohmic in the opposite. Since the discovery of the SDEs by Ando et~al. in the noncentrosymmetric superconductor [Nb/V/Ta]n in 2020, notable progress has been achieved on both the theoretical and experimental fronts. It is proposed that intrinsic SDEs are closely linked to various exotic superconducting states, such as the Fulde–Ferrell–Larkin–Ovchinnikov state, topological superconductivity, and chiral superconductivity. Recently, SDEs have emerged as important experimental tools for detecting symmetry breaking in exotic superconducting states. This advancement not only enhances the understanding of the fundamental nature of SDEs but also opens new possibilities for their applications in superconducting physics and related fields. This review focuses on the recent experimental progress in the observation of the SDEs and discusses their primary mechanisms from the perspective of material properties and symmetry breaking. Finally, the review summarizes the observed rectification efficiency of SDE devices and discusses future research directions in this rapidly developing field.
Etomidate Induces Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Glioma Cancer Cells by Inhibiting Mitochondrial Biogenesis Mediated by CREB/PGC‐1α
Authors: Shi Hailiang , Cao Zhongcheng , Wei Kai
Published: February 2025

Gliomas are one of the most prevalent types of solid tumors in the brain. Imbalances in mitochondrial metabolism have been implicated in the pathological progression of gliomas. Etomidate, an agonist of the γ‐aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptor, is widely used in clinical settings. In this study, we report a novel pharmacological function of etomidate in regulating mitochondrial metabolism in glioma cancer cells. U87 glioma tumor cells were treated with etomidate (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 µg/mL) for 24 h. Quantitative real‐time PCR, western blot analysis, mtDNA/nDNA ratio, MitoTracker Red staining, Complex I and IV activity, intracellular ATP levels, and mitochondrial respiration were assessed. First, etomidate exposure inhibited the expression of PGC‐1α in U87 glioma tumor cells. Further investigation revealed that etomidate suppressed the expression of Nrf1 and TFAM, the two key executors of mitochondrial biogenesis. Etomidate treatment led to damage in mitochondrial biogenesis by decreasing the mtDNA/nDNA ratio, reducing the protein expression of cytochrome B, and lowering mitochondrial mass. These changes suggest impaired mitochondrial replication and function. Correspondingly, etomidate exposure induced a “loss of mitochondrial function” by diminishing the activities of Complex I and Complex IV, the mitochondrial respiratory rate (MRR), and ATP generation. These effects highlight the detrimental impact of etomidate on the energy metabolism of glioma cells. Mechanistically, etomidate inactivated the transcription factor CREB by reducing its phosphorylation at Ser133. Activation of CREB with the second messenger cAMP restored the expression of PGC‐1α, the mtDNA/nDNA ratio, Complex IV activity, summarized mitochondrial respiratory rate (MRR), and ATP production. This suggests that CREB activation may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy to counteract etomidate's inhibitory effects on mitochondrial function in glioma cells. Our results suggest that damage to mitochondrial biogenesis is a key step in the anticancer properties of etomidate in gliomas, and the decrease in PGC‐1α and its downstream molecules may be the critical mechanism behind this effect.
Marktdurchdringung von Drohnen und Herausforderungen beim Einsatz im Bauwesen
Authors: Tschickardt Thomas , Swoboda Anna , Glock Christian , Schmitt Jürgen
Published: February 2025

Der vorliegende Beitrag beleuchtet die Marktdurchdringung von Drohnen im Bauwesen im DACH‐Raum sowie die mit dem Drohneneinsatz auf Baustellen verbundenen Herausforderungen. Der Einsatz von Drohnen zur Baufortschrittskontrolle hat in den letzten Jahren durch moderne Erfassungsmethoden wie Fotogrammetrie und LiDAR erheblich zugenommen. Diese Technologien verbessern die Datenpräzision und die Datenerfassung, bringen jedoch auch technische, rechtliche und finanzielle Fragestellungen mit sich. Eine Studie mit 423 Vermessungsfachleuten zeigt, dass Fotogrammetrie‐Drohnen häufiger genutzt werden als LiDAR‐Drohnen, die kostenintensiver und komplexer sind. Der Beitrag beleuchtet zudem rechtliche Aspekte wie Genehmigungen, geografische Beschränkungen und Datenschutz sowie die Auswirkungen von Wetterbedingungen auf die Flugfähigkeit. Ein Praxisbeispiel zur Flugplanung veranschaulicht die Auswirkungen dieser Rahmenbedingungen auf die Durchführbarkeit von Drohnenflügen. Abschließend werden die Konsequenzen auf den Drohneneinsatz bewertet.
Digitaler Zwilling Ingenieurbauwerke – aktueller Stand und zukünftige Forschung
Authors: Hindersmann Iris , Lehan Anne , Panzer Regina , Windmann Sarah , Bednorz Jennifer
Published: February 2025

Auf dem Weg von der reaktiven Bauwerkserhaltung zum prädiktiven Lebenszyklusmanagement stellt der Digitale Zwilling ein relevantes Werkzeug für Ingenieurbauwerke dar. Der Digitale Zwilling ist eine virtuelle dynamische Repräsentation des realen Systems und seiner Wirkzusammenhänge und ist modular aufgebaut. Die Entwicklung der Module des Digitalen Zwillings von Ingenieurbauwerken ist unterschiedlich weit fortgeschritten. Im Rahmen dieses Beitrags werden die einzelnen Module wie z. B. die Zustandserfassung, das Datenmanagement oder die Visualisierung dargestellt und ihre Ziele beschrieben. Weiterhin werden erste Beispiele für Anwendungsfälle von Digitalen Zwillingen aufgezeigt.
Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus and Genotype Distribution in Chinese Men: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Li Yifan , Zhao Fan , Wu Dan , Qin Chuanyu , Lu Yajiao , Yang Ying , Wang Hairong , Lu Chunlei , Qiu Shengyue , Jiang Wenwen , Yan Yuxiu , Geng Xianyi , Rong Hongding , Ji Na , Lv Ning , Li Yue , Li Jing
Published: February 2025

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination represents a cost‐effective strategy for preventing HPV‐related diseases across genders. However, the HPV vaccine has not been approved for mainland Chinese males, and the comprehensive epidemiological landscape of HPV among Chinese males from mainland China is limited.

Methods

This study aimed to address this gap by examining HPV infection data in Chinese males from January 2012 to September 2024. Four English databases (Web of Science, Embase, Medline, and Cochrane Library) and four Chinese databases (CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, and SinoMed) were systematically reviewed. Random effect models assessed pooled HPV prevalence, and subgroup analyses were conducted based on population (outpatients vs. health checkups). Genotype‐specific HPV positivity was calculated.

Results

A total of 296 studies were included, encompassing 199,233 outpatients and 16,452 health checkups. HPV prevalence was 52.45% among outpatients, with the most prevalent subtypes being HPV 6 (19.06%), 11 (13.71%), and 16 (8.29%). Among health checkups, HPV prevalence was 7.89%, with the highest prevalence subtypes being HPV 16 (3.66%), 52 (1.37%), and 58 (1.19%). Among male patients diagnosed with cancer, HPV 16 (18.50%) and 18 (5.33%) were the most common subtypes, and HPV prevalence was 82.11% among the HIV‐positive MSM population.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of HPV among Chinese males, particularly among outpatients and the HIV‐positive MSM population, underscores the urgent need for targeted prevention strategies. The common subtypes identified in this analysis highlight the potential benefits of introducing HPV prophylactic vaccines to Chinese males, which could significantly reduce the burden of HPV‐related diseases across the population.
Ethylene glycol partial aqueous oxidation on Co3O4 (001) surfaces: pathways to two‐ and four‐electron products in neutral and oxidative conditions
Authors: Nkou Falonne B. S. , Kenmoe Stéphane
Published: February 2025

The catalytic oxidation of ethylene glycol (EG) on the Co3O4 (001) surface is investigated by ab initio molecular dynamics simulations in the presence of a water layer for  the A‐ and B‐ terminations. In addition to the surface structure and composition, the chemical state of the aqueous environment plays a crucial role in the oxidation process. Specifically, it depends on the concentration of surface hydroxyl groups, which can act both as proton donors and acceptors. Reference surfaces, which are generated by bringing the unhydrogenated A‐ and B‐terminated surfaces in contact with a stoichiometric water layer, show some spontaneous water dissociation, which produces a number of surface hydroxyl groups. On such an A‐terminated reference surface, the EG molecule is barely reactive. This holds even in a more oxidative state. On the B‐terminated surface, EG's decomposition into ethylenedioxy species occurs already in the reference state. Under the more oxidative hydrogen‐deficient conditions obtained by removing 8 hydrogen atoms, the reaction proceeds to the formation of the two‐electron oxidation product glycolaldehyde. Removal of altogether 16 hydrogen atoms facilitates the formation of four‐electron oxidation products such as glycolic acid and glyoxal and the observation of a transient H2O2 species which subsequently evolves to form dioxygen.
Synthesis, and Structural and Spectroscopic Analysis of Iron‐Trielyl Complexes
Authors: Griffin Liam , Bauer Alexis , Crumpton Agamemnon , Ellwanger Mathias , Heilmann Andreas , Wiesner Anja , Neidig Michael , Aldridge Simon
Published: February 2025

The reactivity of group 13 anions of the form [(NON)E]‐ (NON = 4,5‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylanilido)‐2,7‐di‐tert‐butyl‐9,9‐dimethyl‐xanthene, E = Al, Ga, In) towards Fe(CO)5 has been investigated. In the case of the aluminyl system, both reaction outcome and product structure are highly sensitive to the availability of the potassium counterion; sequestration by 18‐crown‐6 is necessary to yield a species featuring a direct, unsupported Al–Fe bond. 2.2.2‐Cryptand, by contrast, yields a species featuring bridging carbonyl ligands, while the use of no sequestering agent at all leads to isocarbonyl bridging to aluminium. Owing to their lower oxophilicity, the heavier congeners gallium and indium more straightforwardly deliver Fe–E bonded adducts (E = Ga, In). The series of trielyl iron complexes has been interrogated by structural and computational analyses, as well as by IR and Mössbauer spectroscopies, revealing a consistent shift in bond polarity and electron richness at iron as group 13 is descended. This in turn is consistent with the diminishing donor strength of the trielyl ligand with increasing atomic number.
Enhanced Seawater Oxygen Evolution with Improved Electronic Environment of NiCoPS through Fluorine Doping
Authors: Tu Jinchun , Hu Jiazheng , Wang Bingrong , Li Hai , Tang Zhun , Guo Mingliang
Published: February 2025

Developing economical and robust electrocatalysts to prevent chlorine ions corrosion and improve seawater splitting efficiency is essential for seawater electrolysis. Herein, fluorine‐doped nickel cobalt phospho‐sulfide nanowires (F‐NiCoPS NWs) were synthesized as high‐performance catalysts for overall seawater splitting. The strongly electronegative F anion is favorable to build weak metal fluorine bonds, which easily break to generate highly active species of Ni/Co‐hydroxides/oxyhydroxides protective layer on the electrode surface. This process effectively avoids chlorine evolution reaction (ClER)‐induced dissolution, and enhances the stability of catalysts. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that the electronegative fluorine affects the electronic structure of the catalyst’ surface, further enhancing the adsorption energy and electronic conductivity of the reaction intermediates. F‐NiCoPS with appropriate F doping significantly decreased the overpotential (228 (303) mV at 10 (100) mA cm‐2) and the Tafel slope (44 mV dec‐1) in alkaline seawater, and exhibited a long stability of 100 h. This work provides new insights for constructing effective, cost‐efficient and non‐noble metal electrocatalyst for alkaline seawater splitting.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene‐Based Copolymers for Templated Synthesis and Stabilization of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Nguyen Suong , Brown Christopher , Zhang Wenxu , Kilgallon Landon , Johnson Jeremiah A.
Published: February 2025

Surface functionalization and colloidal stability are pivotal for numerous applications of gold nanoparticles (Au‐NPs). Over the past decade, N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have emerged as promising ligands for stabilizing Au‐NPs owing to their ease of synthesis, structural diversity, and strong metal‐ligand bonds. Here, we introduce new Au(I)‐NHC copolymer scaffolds as precursors to multidentate NHC‐protected Au‐NPs. Ring‐opening metathesis copolymerization of a norbornene‐appended Au(I)‐NHC complex with another functionalized norbornene comonomer provides a diverse array of Au(I)‐NHC copolymers with modular compositions and structures. Upon reduction, these copolymers yield multidentate polyNHC‐coated Au‐NPs with varied properties and corona functionalities dictated by the secondary monomer. These nanoparticles exhibit excellent size homogeneity and stability against aggregation in various buffers, cell culture media, and under exposure to electrolytes, oxidants, and exogenous thiols over extended periods. Moreover, we demonstrate the post‐synthetic surface functionalization reactions of polyNHC‐Au‐NPs while maintaining colloidal stability, highlighting their robustness and potential for applications such as bioconjugation. Overall, these findings underscore the potential of our ROMP‐derived NHC‐containing copolymers as highly tunable and versatile multidentate ligands that may be suitable for other inorganic colloids and flat surfaces with a wide array of applications.
A Meta‐Analysis of Published Brønsted Plots Supports Brønsted's “Conventional” pKa Values: 14.00 for Water and 0.00 for H+(aq)
Authors: Silverstein Todd P. , Neils Thomas
Published: February 2025

In the early 1900s, Brønsted used two different pairs of pKa values for water and the aqueous proton: He denoted 14.00 and 0.00 (respectively) as the “conventional” values, and 15.74 and −1.74 (respectively) as the “rational” values. Although the conventional values have been supported by both experiment and theory, the rational values have been employed in the vast majority of studies involving Brønsted plots up to the present day. Here we present a meta‐analysis of 67 Brønsted plots published from 1924 to 2010, revealing that rational pKa’ values more frequently appear as statistical outliers (a greater than 80 % rejection rate) compared to conventional values (a roughly 50 % rejection rate) based on Q‐tests. Furthermore, in 85 % of examined plots, the conventional points align more closely with best‐fit lines. An evaluation of Hupe and Pohl's Marcus plots also shows a somewhat better fit with the conventional rather than the rational pKa’ values. Finally, in the bond length versus pKa investigations published by Brydon et al., all the rational points were statistically rejected, whereas the conventional values were accepted. From our statistical analyses, we conclude that a convincing majority of experimental evidence from published Brønsted plots leads one to question the validity of Brønsted's rational pKa’ values for water and the aqueous proton (15.74 and −1.74, respectively).
Investigations into Intramolecular Cerium‐ and Manganese‐Catalyzed Aerobic Coupling of β‐Oxoesters with Styryl Moieties
Authors: Friedrich Julian , Schmidtmann Marc , Christoffers Jens
Published: February 2025

Bicyclic diketones and lactones are obtained in up to 60% yield in the aerobic, manganese‐catalyzed intramolecular radical cyclization of β‐oxoesters with a six‐membered ring and phenyl or diphenyl allyl substituents in the γ‐position. Intermediate products of this transformation are peroxides, which are processed either reductively with zinc–acetic acid or by Kornblum‐DeLaMare fragmentation (with acetyl chloride–pyridine). The respective congeners with five‐ or seven‐membered rings either undergo only α‐hydroxylation reactions or mixtures of various cyclization products are obtained in low yields. In this study, also cerium‐catalysis was investigated, however, the yields are lower compared to manganese catalysis. The relative configurations of all racemic products were established by X‐ray single crystal structure analyses.
Deep foundation for high rise in tricky soil conditions and surroundings in Scandinavia – Walkthrough of various high‐rise projects from initial geology to final execution and everything in between
Authors: Lajer Ronny , Klitgaard Person Tobias , Strømgaard Hansen Martin , Dambo Nielsen Tine
Published: February 2025

This report explores the challenges and innovative solutions associated with constructing deep foundations for high‐rise buildings in Scandinavia. The focus is on three projects: Lighthouse and Mindet 6 in Aarhus, Denmark and Karlatornet in Gothenburg, Sweden. Each project faces complex geotechnical conditions, requiring advanced engineering techniques. The report highlights the importance of early involvement in project planning, allowing for tailored solutions to geotechnical challenges. Per Aarsleff A/S employed value engineering techniques to optimize designs, ensuring both cost‐effectiveness and structural integrity. Test piles were crucial in validating foundation designs, offering real‐time data for precise calibration. The report emphasizes the important collaborative approach between engineers, clients, and other stakeholders, leading to innovative design solutions and successful project execution. The strategic use of advanced machinery, such as Aarsleff's Bauer BG55 drilling rig, underscores the technical prowess required for these projects. The report showcases how complex soil conditions and engineering hurdles were overcome through meticulous planning, technology, and continuous collaboration, setting a standard for high‐rise construction in challenging environments in Scandinavia.
Teenage Pregnancy and Its Associated Factors Among Girls Aged 13–19 Years in Apac District, Uganda: A Community‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Faith Ewach Gracious , Ikwara Emmanuel Asher , Marvin Musinguzi , Isiko Isaac
Published: February 2025

Background

This study examined teenage pregnancy among girls aged 13–19 years in Apac District, Uganda, focusing on socioeconomic, cultural, and behavioral factors. It aimed to identify prevalence and key contributors to inform targeted interventions and improve adolescent reproductive health.

Methods

This study employed a descriptive cross‐sectional design in Apac District, Uganda. It surveyed 432 teenage girls (13–19) using structured questionnaires to examine sociodemographic, behavioral, and sociocultural factors affecting teenage pregnancy. Data analysis was conducted in Excel and SPSS.

Results

This study identified critical factors influencing teenage pregnancy among girls aged 13–19. A striking 84.1% of pregnant adolescents are aged 13–14, demonstrating age as a primary risk factor. Educational disparities emerge, with no formal education significantly lowering pregnancy odds (AOR: 0.16, CI: 0.03–0.80). Conversely, higher parental education correlates with increased risk (AOR: 3.50, CI: 1.50–8.15). Cultural influences are notable; Muslim (AOR: 4.60, CI: 1.56–13.58) and Protestant affiliations (AOR: 2.09, CI: 1.08–4.09) elevate risks, while early marriage (AOR: 7.57, CI: 3.44–16.64) and schooling challenges (AOR: 6.97, CI: 3.18–15.31) further exacerbate vulnerability.

Conclusion

This study highlights the critical factors contributing to teenage pregnancy in Apac District, Uganda, including younger age, educational disparities, and cultural affiliations. Early marriage and schooling challenges also increase vulnerability, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to improve maternal health outcomes.
The Impact of Relaxation Time in Piezoelectric Hollow Cylinder by Finite Element Technique
Authors: Alqahtani Zuhur , Abbas Ibrahim , El‐Bary Alaa A. , Almuneef Areej
Published: February 2025

This study examines the thermo‐electro‐elastic responses of a long hollow cylindrical piezoelectric material due to a pulse heating flux on its surface. Formulations suggested by Lord and Shulman for generalized piezothermoelastic systems are used. The response of the vessel is modeled under axisymmetric conditions, leading to the formulation of three coupled governing equations: the motion, Maxwell and the energy formulations. The finite element approach is used to solve these equations numerically. The Newmark time‐marching methodology is used to derive the temporal evolution. The presentation of novel numerical results provides insights into the dynamic behaviors of the piezoelectric cylinder under transient heat settings. The responses of pulse heating flux and relaxation time on the coupling between mechanical, thermal and electrical fields are highlighted in this work, providing useful.
High prevalence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and intestinal methanogen overgrowth in endometriosis patients: A case–control study
Authors: Halfon Philippe , Estrade Jean‐Philippe , Penaranda Guillaume , Choucroun Nathalie , Bouaziz Jérôme , Nicolas‐Boluda Alba , Retornaz Frédérique , Gurriet Brice , Plauzolles Anne
Published: February 2025

Objective

The purpose of this study is to raise awareness of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO) prevalence among patients with endometriosis to improve global recommendations in the standard of care for endometriosis.

Methods

This case–control study included a cohort of 1027 women who underwent the lactulose breath test (LBT) during their healthcare check‐up to diagnose SIBO and/or IMO from November 2021 to June 2023. One hundred and forty‐eight endometriosis patients were selected based on magnetic resonance imaging or a histological assessment. Each were matched with an equal number of women without endometriosis based on the exact age.

Results

SIBO/IMO prevalence was significantly higher among women with endometriosis, with up to 136 out of 148 who tested positive, 91.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 86.3–95.7%) against 123 in the control group, 83.1% [76.1–88.8%], P = 0.0223. Women with endometriosis showed a significantly higher incidence of altered transit than those without (85.8 vs. 71%, P = 0.0019) and an increased prevalence of constipation (67.8 vs. 44.7%, P = 0.0017) and dizziness (44.8 vs. 28.7%, P = 0.0245). Overall, methane overgrowth accounted for up to 63.2% in women with endometriosis who tested positive for methane overgrowth. SIBO H2 was associated with a higher risk of developing diarrhea (P = 0.0027), whereas those positive for IMO were at a higher risk of developing acid reflux (P = 0.0132).

Conclusion

Abnormal digestive overgrowth should be assessed in all endometriosis cases, as this approach could offer a new therapeutic strategy.
Unravelling the Nuances of Data With Quantile Regression: A Comprehensive Tutorial
Authors: Mabire‐Yon Renaud
Published: February 2025

In applied psychology, traditional statistical methods often provide only a broad overview, potentially overlooking nuanced variable relationships. This article presents a comprehensive tutorial on quantile regression (QR), a statistical modelling technique ideally suited for psychological data analysis. Unlike conventional regression, QR examines relationships across different quantiles of the data distribution, revealing complex dynamics and offering robustness to non‐normality and heteroscedasticity. We demonstrate its utility through a practical example, analysing the relationship between age and life satisfaction, supported by annotated R code. The tutorial emphasises grounding QR in a sound theoretical framework and introduces the quantile loss approach as an alternative to p value interpretation. By providing both theoretical understanding and practical tools, this tutorial aims to empower researchers to improve the depth and reproducibility of their findings in psychological research.
Microplastics Exposure Causes the Growth Hormone Resistance on the Stem Cell
Authors: Zhang Meng , Zhang Ruoting , Kong Yuebing , Li Jiawen , Wang Guoxia , Wu Deyi , Lan Hainan , Wu Min
Published: February 2025

With the large range of applications for plastic products, the potential hazards of polystyrene microplastics (PS‐MPs) as a hazardous substance have been widely concerned. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are important cells in the body with high self‐renewal ability, multidirectional differentiation potential and low immunogenicity. Growth hormone (GH) has important biological regulatory effects on MSCs. However, the toxicological effects of PS‐MPs on the role of GH in hMSCs are unclear yet. In this work, we explored the effects of PS‐MPs on the biological activity of GH in hMSCs. Initially, we conducted experiments to investigate the cellular behavior of GH in hMSCs. It is noteworthy that poststimulation with PS‐MPs, there was a significant reduction in the quantity of GH entering the cytoplasm, with almost negligible distribution observed in the cell nucleus. Consequently, we proceeded to examine the GH/GHR‐mediated signaling pathways. The data revealed that poststimulation with PS‐MPs, the downstream signaling pathways, including JAK2‐STATs1/3/5, were significantly downregulated. To elucidate this intriguing finding, we delved further into the molecular mechanisms underlying the desensitization of GH/GHR signaling induced by PS‐MPs. Experimental data demonstrated that the entry of PS‐MPs into the cells resulted in a significant increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to cellular senescence. In summary, PS‐MPs may induce desensitization of GH signaling in hMSCs through the ROS‐induced cellular senescence. This study provides crucial insights into the biological effects of PS‐MPs on the GH bioactivity in hMSCs.
Effect of Nano Selenium on Cadmium Chloride‐Induced Infertility in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Taromsari Shahrbano , Eidi Akram , Mortazavi Pejman , Modaresi Mehrdad
Published: February 2025

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element with well‐documented health benefits, including antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and anticarcinogenic properties. Selenium nanoparticles (nano‐Se) represent an advanced Se delivery system characterized by superior bioavailability and a reduced risk of Se‐related toxicity. This study investigates the protective efficacy of nano‐Se against cadmium chloride (CdCl2)‐induced infertility in adult male Wistar rats. The experimental design involved random allocation of the rats into nine groups: a healthy control group, a vehicle control group, three groups receiving nano‐Se alone at 0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 mg/kg b.w./day, a group exposed to CdCl2 to induce infertility, and three CdCl2‐exposed groups treated with nano‐Se. After 30 days of treatment, the animals were euthanized for biochemical and histopathological assessments. The findings revealed that nano‐Se administration ameliorated the detrimental effects of treatment CdCl2 on serum testosterone levels. Additionally, nano‐Se significantly reduced malondialdehyde levels and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes in testicular homogenates. Histological analyses further demonstrated that nano‐Se preserved the structural integrity of testicular tissue in the CdCl2‐induced fertility model. Nano‐Se modulated apoptotic pathways, as evidenced by the suppression of Bax expression and upregulation of Bcl2 expression in testicular tissue. Furthermore, nano‐Se mitigated the overexpression of aquaporin‐9 in CdCl2‐exposed rats. Collectively, these results provide robust biochemical, histological, and biochemical evidence supporting the potential therapeutic utility of nano‐Se in mitigating testicular dysfunction.
To Fill a Hollow Core: Roles of Firm Knowledge When Outsourcing Core Component During Technological Change
Authors: Park Woo‐Yong , Khurshid Faisal , Tangpong Chanchai
Published: February 2025

The innovation literature has been marked by contrarian views regarding the roles of firms' knowledge accumulation with regards to outsourced core components. To reconcile these views, we draw on the behavioral theory of the firm and the technological evolution literature in hypothesizing firms' local search as a mechanism by which firms' accumulated knowledge affects their product performance. Firms' in‐house knowledge can expose them to an accumulated knowledge trap, as firms' accumulated knowledge tends to escalate their local search for a solution to a new technological challenge, but the impact of the local search on performance is unlikely to be materialized. We maintain that firms' accumulated knowledge can make them more prone to the accumulated knowledge trap before rather than after the dominant technology has emerged. We further hypothesize that prior exploratory experiences and suppliers' outsourced component knowledge can reduce firms' susceptibility to such a knowledge trap before the dominant technology emergence, but their moderating roles fade away after the dominant technology emergence. Data from the U.S. Hybrid Electric Vehicle drivetrain market support our hypotheses. Our findings enrich the current literatures on the behavioral theory of the firm and technological evolution while reconciling the contrarian views in the innovation literature.
Evaluation of ecotoxicological effects of sophorolipids on duckweed, Spirodela polyrrhiza
Authors: Shao Junqian , Li Guangshun , Jiang Rongyue , Jin Zhigang , Han Huipei , Huo Yanfeng , Xun Shangpei , Ma Xiaojing
Published: February 2025

This study evaluated the ecotoxicological effects of sophorolipids (SLs), biosurfactants with potential environmental applications, on the aquatic plant Spirodela polyrhiza (duckweed). Key growth indicators, including biomass, foliose thalli, and leaf area, were examined under varying SL concentrations. Results indicated that low to moderate SL concentrations (below 100 mg/L) had minimal adverse effects on duckweed growth, whereas higher concentrations (200–300 mg/L) significantly inhibited growth and triggered stress responses. Morphological and physiological assessments revealed that elevated SL concentrations caused substantial frond wilting, root hair damage, and reductions in photosynthetic pigments. Antioxidant responses, such as glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase (CAT) enzyme activities, increased adaptively at low to moderate SL concentrations but declined at higher levels, indicating severe oxidative stress. Despite these adverse effects, S. polyrhiza exhibited a remarkable ability to degrade SLs even at high concentrations, demonstrating the exceptional biodegradability of SLs. Overall, the findings emphasize the relative safety of SLs at low to moderate concentrations in aquatic environments, underscoring their potential as environmentally friendly surfactants when used responsibly.
Biochemical and Molecular Characterization of Soil‐Isolated Exoelectrogens and Evaluation of Their Electrochemical Properties via Single‐Chambered Mediator‐Free Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Dar Parvaiz Ahmad , Yahya Wan Zaireen Nisa , Khan Azmat Ali , Kumar Amit , Agrawal Sharad
Published: February 2025

Microbial fuel cells are utilized in electromicrobiology for the purpose of cleaning wastewater and producing electricity. Anaerobically, MFCs use microbial catalysis in the anodic compartment to transform the chemical energy stored in organic and inorganic molecular bonds. Using the soil sample, four exoelectrogens are isolated. Each of the four single‐chambered mediator‐less microbial fuel cell design are used to inject the extracted soil exoelectrogens. A nutritional medium is used to operate the reactors in batches of 15 days. The exoelectrogen ISO4 (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NSB4), followed by ISO3 (cereus strain BXC6), ISO2 (Bacillus sp. (in: Bacteria) strain 4N), and ISO1 (Staphylococcus argenteus strain D7) achieve the best growth rates. On average, data on energy generation shows that MFCs with ISO4 have the maximum voltage and power density at 1024 mV external resistance (1 kΩ), followed by ISO3 at 609 mV, ISO2 at 560  mV, and ISO1 at 487 mV. Power densities of isolates are recorded as: 41.281 mW/m2, 29.241, 12.723, and 3.552 mW/m2 for ISO4, ISO3, ISO2, and ISO1, respectively. The research finds that the energy output of MFC reactors is affected by the exoelectrogen substrates. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) experiment demonstrates that exoelectrogens directly transport electrons to the anode surface via cytochromes and other substances associated with the cell membrane. It has been previously difficult to produce power from pure isolates, but new research reveals that this is no longer an issue. Pure cultures of exolectrogens use to generate current also show a broad substrate utilization spectrum, in line with previous studies.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Selenium Bearing 24‐ and 28‐Membered Macrocyclic Schiff Bases and Their Reactivity with Hg (II) Ion
Authors: Banerjee Bhaskar , Verma Rajaneesh Kumar , Jain Nidhi , Yadav Tarun , Alheetyc Mustafa A. , Yahya M. Z. A. , Singh Munendra , Verma Vinay Kumar , Singh Ram Chandra
Published: February 2025

The present study reports the synthesis of novel selenium containing 24 (1)‐ and 28 (2)‐membered macrocyclic Schiff base ligands and their reactivity with Hg(II) metal ion to form complex 3 and 4, respectively. The synthesis of the ligands are carried out by a simple condensation of 2,6‐dibenzoyl‐4‐methylphenol and bis(aminoethyl/propyl)selenides in [2+2] dipodal manner in dry acetonitrile solvent under inert atmosphere. Furthermore, the reaction between the 24‐ and 28‐membered selenium containing ligands and Hg(II) metal ion are carried out in dry methanol in argon atmosphere. Following the complexation of both the ligands, 1 (C50H48O2N4Se2) and 2 (C54H56O2N4Se2) when reacted with HgBr2 yields monometallic complexes 3 and 4 with molecular composition of C50H50O3N4Se2HgBr2 and C54H58O3N4Se2HgBr2, respectively, as calculated via elemental analysis and mass spectrometry. Moreover, the synthesized compounds are also characterized by various physicochemical techniques to determine the structure and reactivity, which includes UV–vis, FT‐IR, multinuclear (1H and 77Se) NMR, and cyclic voltammetry.
Epoxy and Fused Silica Composite for Radio Frequency and Microwave Applications
Authors: Kumar Surendra , Gupta Pallavi , Rajauriya Manisha
Published: February 2025

Fused silica and epoxy composite are prepared and presented in this paper for the microwave applications. The mixing of the fused silica and epoxy is done using powder processing techniques. Fused silica particles are working as a filler material in the epoxy matrix. The dielectric loss of the fabricated fused silica and epoxy composite is found to be 0.002 at 9.5 GHz, which is lower than the dielectric loss (0.012) of the unfilled epoxy. The dielectric constant of the fabricated fused silica and epoxy composite (εr 2.5) approximately remains same as the unfilled epoxy. Thus, a new polymer–composite is formed for the low‐loss microwave propagation with improved mechanical and thermal properties because of the presence of the ceramic filler in epoxy matrix. The practical value holds good in agreement with the theoretical approaches.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Brine Shrimp (Artemia salina) Toxicity Evaluation of Nanocomposites Carrier Phytic Acid/Chitosan/Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Asey Monica Namizie , Abdullah Che Azurahanim Che , Abdelmonem Mohamed , Esa Norhaizan Mohd , Rahman Mohd Basyaruddin Abdul
Published: February 2025

The use of polymer‐coated magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONs) to deliver drugs to a specific target site is among the most efficient strategies. We have developed MIONs coated with chitosan (CS) polymer, preloaded with the phytodrug phytic acid (PTA), for drug delivery applications. To fully understand the crystalline structure and surface morphology of the prepared composite nanocarrier, it is thoroughly characterised by powder X‐Ray Diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyses, vibrational sample magnetometer, and transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, brine shrimp (Artemia salina) are used to assess the in vitro toxicity of phytodrug‐loaded MIONs‐CS nanostructures. Our studies on brine shrimp have demonstrated that both the phytodrug and nanocomposite have excellent activity. As a result, our PTA‐loaded MIONs/CS nanocomposite can be recommended for real‐time diagnostic CS.