bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron‐Nitrogen‐Carbon Aerogel for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction in Acidic Media: The Influence of Temperature
Authors: Yao Xichen , Xia Qiang , Zhang Chuang , Wang Shuxian , Nie Jinquan , Liu Dezheng , Patil Girish P. , Jadhav Chandradip D.
Published: January 2025

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in an acidic environment is crucial for fuel cell technology. Understanding its complex kinetics and developing advanced catalyst materials have the potential to drive significant improvements in energy efficiency, paving the way for sustainable, green energy solutions. In this work, Iron‐Nitrogen‐Carbon@aerogel (Fe(FcP)x‐N‐C@Aerogel) catalysts are developed by carbonizing polypyrrole (PPy) and ferrocene. The ORR performance of these catalysts is investigated across different annealing temperatures. The catalysts’ shape and structure are validated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), revealing that changes in annealing temperature affect morphology and nitrogen‐containing functional groups of the catalyst. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and rotating disk electrode (RDE) studies demonstrated that Fe(FcP)800‐N‐C@Aerogel catalysts exhibit excellent performance, with a half‐wave potential of 0.687 V and an average electron transfer number of 3.98 under acidic conditions. These findings suggest a near‐four‐electron reaction pathway, highlighting the catalyst's strong ORR activity, high efficiency, and durability, with only 17.4 mV LSV curve decay after 10,000 cycles. In conclusion, Fe(FcP)x‐N‐C@Aerogel advances ORR catalysis in acidic media by delivering exceptional performance and durability, driven by its innovative architecture and precisely engineered active sites, setting a new benchmark for high‐efficiency energy conversion.
Advanced Solid Lubrication with COK‐47: Mechanistic Insights on the Role of Water and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Li Hanglin , Sui Xudong , Ayala Pablo , Marquis Edoardo , Rabl Hannah , Ertl Adrian , Bilotto Pierluigi , Shang Yazhuo , Li Jiusheng , Xu Lu , Righi Maria Clelia , Eder Dominik , Gachot Carsten
Published: January 2025

Metal–organic framework (MOF) nanoparticles have attracted widespread attention as lubrication additives due to their tunable structures and surface effects. However, their solid lubrication properties have been rarely explored. This work introduces the positive role of moisture in solid lubrication in the case of a newly described Ti‐based MOF (COK‐47) powder. COK‐47 achieves an 8.5‐fold friction reduction compared to AISI 304 steel‐on‐steel sliding under room air. In addition, COK‐47 maintains a similarly low coefficient of friction (0.1–0.2) on various counterbodies, including Al2O3, ZrO2, SiC, and Si3N4. Notably, compared to other widely studied MOFs (ZIF‐8, ZIF‐67) and 2D materials powder (MXene, TMD, rGO), COK‐47 exhibits the lowest friction (≈0.1) under the same experimental settings. Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscopy indicate that the tribofilm is an amorphous film obtained by hydrolysis of COK‐47 in the air with moisture. Density functional theory further confirms that water catalyzes the decomposition of COK‐47, a crucial step in forming the tribofilm. This study demonstrates the idea of utilizing MOF and water‐assisted lubrication mechanisms. It provides new insights into MOF applications in tribology and highlights interdisciplinary contributions of mechanical engineering and chemistry.
Phenanthrene Treatment for O‐xylene‐Processed PM6:Y6‐Based Organic Solar Cells Enables Over 19% Efficiency
Authors: Fan Hongyu , Yang Hang , Wu Yue , Cui Chaohua , Li Yongfang
Published: January 2025

Achieving excellent charge transport properties in high‐performance organic solar cells (OSCs) generally requires photovoltaic materials to have strong crystallinity. Meanwhile, non‐halogenated solvent processing is very important for future application of the OSCs. However, highly crystalline materials will pose challenges for the control of molecular aggregation behavior in donor/acceptor blend films processed with high boiling point non‐halogenated solvents. Herein, a new approach to effectively regulate the aggregation of represented strong crystallinity material Y6 in high boiling point processing solvents is developed by employing phenanthrene (PAT) with unique crystallinity and relatively loose molecular stacking as volatile solid additive. It is elucidated that PAT treatment shows a significant effect in inhibiting the excessive self‐aggregation of Y6 in high boiling point solvent during the film formation process and reducing the crystallization rate of Y6 molecules under thermal annealing, resulting in highly ordered molecular packing and favorable phase‐separated morphology. As a result, the PM6:Y6‐based device processed with chlorobenzene, toluene, and o‐xylene achieve excellent power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 17.71%, 17.99%, and 19.04%, respectively. The efficiency of 19.04% represents the highest value so far for the PM6:Y6‐based binary OSCs processed with high boiling point non‐halogenated solvents.
A mouse coccygeal intervertebral disc degeneration model with tail‐looping constructed using a suturing method
Authors: Xie Wei , Huang Zemao , Huang Ziyang , Luo Deqing , Chen Zhangxin , Xie Li , Zhu Lingqi , Liu Hui , Lian Kejian , Alberton Paolo , Docheva Denitsa , Lin Dasheng
Published: January 2025

Backgroud

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is one of the common degenerative diseases. Due to ethical constraints, it is difficult to obtain sufficient research on humans, so the use of an animal model of IDD is very important to clarify the pathogenesis and treatment mechanism of the disease.

Methods

In this study, thirty 2‐month‐old mice were selected for operation to establish a coccygeal IDD model. The distal tail portion of the tail (beyond the 17th coccygeal vertebra) and a small piece of skin above the 8th coccygeal vertebra were excised, and the two incisions were brought together after flexion, and secured with sutures. The heights and signal intensities of the intervertebral discs (IVDs) were assessed using microcomputed tomography (μCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 0, 6, 12 weeks postoperatively. The overall tissue morphology, cell distribution and density, and extracellular matrix of the IVDs were also assessed using Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE), Safranin O‐Fast Green and immunohistochemical staining.

Results

All mice in the experimental group survived after the operation, and there were no complications such as wound infection, tail necrosis and suture shedding. The experimental results demonstrated that the suturing method can successfully initiate IDD. Different severity levels of IDD can be induced by controlling the bending angle of the IVDs within the tail loop; however, for consistency, histologic and imaging results should be obtained at the same bending angle and looping period.

Conclusions

This IDD model is an effective method for studying the etiology and treatment of degenerative IVD disease.
Exploring the neuroprotective benefits of phytochemicals extracted from indigenous edible fruits in Bangladesh
Authors: Roy Sumon , Roy Sajib Chandra , Zehravi Mehrukh , Sweilam Sherouk Hussein , Das Rajib , Palanisamy Mylsamy , Dantinapalli Venkata Lakshamana Sagar , Elumalai Selvaraja , Gupta Jeetendra Kumar , Alshehri Mohammed Ali , Asiri Mohammed , Ahmad Irfan , Nafady Mohamed H. , Emran Talha Bin
Published: January 2025

The increasing incidence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) and the constraints of existing treatment methods have spurred a keen interest in investigating alternative therapies. Medicinal plants, renowned for their long‐standing use in traditional medicine, offer a hopeful avenue for discovering new neuroprotective agents. This study emphasizes the potential neuroprotective characteristics of edible fruit plants in Bangladesh, specifically focusing on their traditional folk medicine uses for neurological disorders. This study provides an in‐depth overview of the different types of edible fruit trees in Bangladesh and their phytochemicals, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic acids. This work examines the scientific data supporting the neuroprotective properties of bioactive chemicals from plants. It further explores the mechanisms by which these compounds work to counteract oxidative stress, decrease inflammation, and stimulate neurogenesis. Moreover, the study investigates toxicological characteristics and bioactive components of some fruits, emphasizing the importance of further investigation to measure their safety profile comprehensively. This thorough study highlights the potential benefits of Bangladesh's edible fruit trees as a rich source of neuroprotective chemicals. It also shows that additional research might lead to novel approaches for improving brain functioning and preventing NDs.
Tiny‐Ligand Solvation Electrolyte Enabled Fast‐Charging Aqueous Batteries
Authors: Shang Yanxin , Chen Nan , Li Yuejiao , Chen Shi , Li Zhujie , Li Shengxi , Ren Xuening , Ye Yusheng , Li Li , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: January 2025

The H‐bond network among H2O molecules enables ultrafast diffusion of H+ and OH− via a hopping mechanism, making aqueous batteries attractive competitors for next‐generation fast‐charging energy storages. Ideal aqueous electrolyte for the widely used lithium‐ion batteries is expected to have the wide electrochemical stability window (>5 volts), fast charging (≤15 minutes) without gas evolution, and low cost. However, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) associated with narrow voltage window of water (1.23 V) limits their practical applications. Herein, we built a new guideline for designing tiny‐ligand electrolytes by utilizing sterically hindered groups with low binding energy. Cosolvent tetraethyl orthocarbonate (TEOC), with large‐sized ethoxy groups and hydrogen‐bond‐captured ability, forces free H2O and anion TFSI− into the Li+ first solvation shell. Hence, inhibition of HER takes place by means of immobilized H2O activity and formation of hydrogen‐bonding networks —C−O⋅⋅⋅H between TEOC and H2O. This unique structure with ultra‐small sheath volume thereby facilitates the formation of LiF‐rich SEI and fast ion‐conduction. The lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) in TEOC/H2O electrolyte exhibits wide electrochemical window of 5.7 V, enabling LiMn2O4/Li4Ti5O12 pouch cells to achieve 1200 cycles under rapid 10 C rate. This engineering of tiny‐ligand solvation opens new pathways for developing advanced electrolyte that balance performance with sustainability.
Tailoring Water‐in‐DMSO Electrolyte for Ultra‐stable Rechargeable Zinc Batteries
Authors: Ren Huaizheng , Li Sai , Xu Liang , Wang Lei , Liu Xinxin , Wang Lei , Liu Yue , Zhang Liang , Zhang Han , Gong Yuxin , Lv Chade , Chen Dongping , Wang Jianxin , Lv Qiang , Li Yaqiang , Liu Huakun , Wang Dianlong , Cheng Tao , Wang Bo , Chao Dongliang , Dou Shixue
Published: January 2025

Rechargeable zinc batteries (RZBs) are hindered by two primary challenges: instability of Zn anode and deterioration of the cathode structure in traditional aqueous electrolytes, largely attributable to the decomposition of active H2O. Here, we design and synthesize a non‐flammable water‐in‐dimethyl sulfoxide electrolyte to address these issues. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, in situ techniques and computational simulations demonstrate that the activity of H2O in this electrolyte is extremely compressed, which not only suppresses the side reactions and increases the reversibility of Zn anode, but also diminishes the cathode dissolution and proton intercalation. The hybrid solid‐electrolyte interface (SEI), formed in situ, helps Zn−Zn symmetric cell a prolonged lifespan exceeding 10000 h at 0.5 mA cm−2 and 600 h at a 60 % discharge depth. The versatility of this electrolyte endows the Zn‐VO2 full batteries ultra‐stable cycling performance. This work provides insights into electrolyte structure–property relationships, and facilitates the design of high‐performance RZBs.
The Meaning of Quasi‐Simultaneous X‐Rays and Gamma‐Ray Observations of RS Oph in Outburst
Authors: Orio Marina , Fang Ke , Gallagher Jay , Luna Gerardo Juan M. , Mikolajewska Joanna
Published: January 2025

Shocks in novae outbursts are ubiquitous, but in symbiotic novae, they are particularly powerful, probably because of the surrounding red giant wind. The recurrent nova RS Oph is the best example of this phenomenon. The presence of shocked plasma in outburst was inferred from optical spectra, and it was confirmed by X‐ray observations since 1985. Since 2010, the gamma‐ray observatory Fermi has proven that novae in general are the site of particle acceleration, producing copious gamma‐ray flux in the few‐GeV range. In the last outburst of the symbiotic RS Oph in 2021, gamma‐rays were not only detected with Fermi in the GeV range but also detected in the TeV range of the Cherenkov telescopes, for about 3 weeks. Diesing et al. in 2023 showed that there must have been at least two distinct episodes of shocks, likely of hadronic nature, both generating particle acceleration. We present new NuSTAR data and re‐discuss XMM‐Newton high‐resolution grating spectra and NICER data that we recently published. We concluded that the primary shock causing the particle acceleration observed in the range of TeV gamma‐rays with the Cherenkov telescopes was the same phenomenon observed and studied with the x‐ray observatories. However, the shocked plasma from which the particles were accelerated causing the gamma‐ray flux observed after 1 day with Fermi was—at least initially—unobservable. We suggest that this first episode of shock occurred when the nova ejecta collided with a dense outflow close to the atmosphere of the red giant, with such a high absorbing column that x‐rays were absorbed.
Effects of oxidation inducers on palm, jatropha, and sunflower biodiesel properties during 22‐week storage and improvements with antioxidants
Authors: Laemthong Tunyaboon , Chiarasamran Nutchapon , Saisriyoot Maythee , Thanapimmetha Anusith , Ooi Chien Wei , Chang Yu Kaung , Srinophakun Penjit
Published: January 2025

Oxidative stability is essential for biodiesel quality. This study examines the effects of copper and water as oxidative inducers on biodiesel derived from palm, jatropha, and sunflower oils. Key properties, including fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) content, iodine number, kinematic viscosity, and total acid number, were tracked over 22 weeks. The FAME content declined progressively, with palm biodiesel decreasing from 100% to 98.56% after 2 weeks and 95.76% after 22 weeks. Similarly, jatropha biodiesel dropped from 98.44% to 98.40% and 93.87%, and sunflower biodiesel declined from 96.55% to 96.42% and 91.84% over the same periods. The iodine number, kinematic viscosity, and total acid number also showed slight reductions over time and remained within commercial biodiesel standards. Copper had a more significant impact on oxidative degradation than water, with sunflower biodiesel being most affected due to its higher unsaturated fatty acid content. Three quadratic equations were developed to model quality changes over time. Adding 1000 ppm of tert‐butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) effectively maintained the quality of palm and jatropha biodiesel for up to 18 weeks.
Evaluating the utility of the HAS‐BLED bleeding‐estimator tool for transurethral resection of prostate
Authors: Kuo Lu Yu , Lim Zhong Li Titus , Letch Caitlin , Silverman Joshua , Kim Jason Jae Yeun , McClintock Scott
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the utility of the HAS‐BLED bleeding risk‐estimation tool to predict for clinically significant postoperative haematuria in patients receiving transurethral resection of prostate (TURP).

Patients and Methods

A single‐centre, retrospective cohort analysis of patients underwent TURP from April 2019 to December 2023 for treatment of symptomatic benign prostate hyperplasia. The primary objective was to evaluate reliability of HAS‐BLED score in predicting postoperative bleeding event. A focus sub‐analysis was performed on anticoagulated patient cohort. Each patient was categorised in to HASBLED low‐, moderate‐ and high‐risk group according to the preestablished estimator tool. Patients' demographics, clinical, pathological and operative details were collected. Events of clinically significant haematuria within 3 months postoperatively were captured. Cohort characteristics and outcome were analysed with two‐sided t test and ANOVA test. Further weight‐adjusted multivariable analysis and ROC curve was performed to evaluate the predictive value of HAS‐BLED score.

Results

Our analysis showed that patients assigned as high‐risk by HAS‐BLED were at 2.17‐times higher chance of developing clinically significant haematuria compared to the low‐risk patients. The risk for high‐risk patient was 18.5% (95%CI 11.7–25.3%) and 8.5% (95%CI 4.6–12.4%) for low‐risk patients. Moderate‐risk did not demonstrate any significant difference relative to the low‐risk group. Sub‐analysis of 113 patients receiving long‐term anticoagulation accentuates the utility of the tool. The risk of haematuria for high‐risk patient was 32.7% (95%CI 20.7–44.7%), moderate‐risk patient was 28.7% (95%CI 17.0–40.3%), and low‐risk patient was 9.7% (95%CI 4.2–15.2%). In this cohort, the risk of haematuria was 3.37 and 2.96 times higher in the high and moderate‐risk compared to the low‐risk group, respectively.

Conclusion

This is the first study to validate a bleeding estimator tool for TURP patients. High HAS‐BLED score positively predicts clinically significant post‐TURP haematuria, particularly for patients receiving anticoagulation therapy.
Development of High‐Efficiency BaSrCaWO6:Mn4+ Red‐Emitting Phosphors via La3+ Addition Strategy
Authors: Dong Jing , Li Jingwei , Hu Chengli , Yin Pengfei , Feng Xing , Zhou Cuiping , Zhang Yi
Published: January 2025

In this paper, a series of BaSrCaWO6:x%Mn4+, y%La3+ (x = 0.1, 0.5, 0.6, 1.5; y = 0, 5, 10, 15, 20) red‐emitting phosphors were synthesized by the high‐temperature solid‐state method. The structure and optical properties of the samples were systematically studied by the characterizations of x‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), UV–Vis spectra, photoluminescence (PL) spectra, photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectra, and quantum efficiency (QE). It was found that the addition of La3+ ions plays significant roles on the luminous performance of phosphors as compared with the nonluminous BaSrCaWO6:Mn (BSCW:Mn), which can be attributed to the Mn2+ → Mn4+ oxidation process induced by La3+ doping. The BSCW:0.5%Mn, 15%La3+ phosphor exhibited a strong emission peak at 685 nm with a CIE chromaticity coordinate at (0.720, 0.279), which is suitable for application in indoor plant cultivations. The BSCW:0.5%Mn, 15%La3+ phosphor exhibited an IQE of 47.8% and a high absorption efficiency of 72.8% with the EQE of 34.8%. Besides, the phosphor also showed the thermal stability with the emission intensity at 423 K being 48% of the emission intensity at 298 K. These results indicate that the synthesized BSCW:0.5%Mn, 15%La3+ phosphor could be a potential phosphor to be applied in plant growth LEDs.
Direct conversion of esters to aldehydes and ketones via piperazine amide under mild conditions
Authors: Kwak Jae Seok , Jaladi Ashok Kumar , An Duk Keun
Published: January 2025

Aldehydes and ketones are basic, versatile intermediates used in organic synthesis. Various substituted aldehydes and ketones were directly prepared from carboxylic esters under mild conditions with excellent yields. The in situ generated aminolysis intermediate, piperazine‐1,4‐diylbis(phenylmethanone) amide, is readily reacted with commercial DIBALH and n‐BuLi to obtain carbonyls in a one‐pot reaction. The key amide intermediate was obtained in quantitative yield among the screened secondary amines. Hence, the formation of piperazine amide from the ester group, eliminated the utility of cryogenic temperatures and reduction proceeded under mild conditions. In addition, gram‐scale preparation of aldehyde and ketone was reported in good yields.
Green Policies, Greener Wallets: How Cap‐and‐Trade Regulation Affects Cost of Capital
Authors: Hu Mingyu , Hu Zilin , Wu Qingyang
Published: January 2025

As one of the most efficient regulations on climate abatement, the cap‐and‐trade mechanism has been broadly adopted to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Although there are common concerns about the nexus between environmental regulations and financial markets, this paper investigates how cap‐and‐trade policy affects companies' cost of equity (COE) and cost of debt (COD) and explores the underlying mechanisms. By merging nationwide data from China's listed companies and exploiting the staggered introduction of cap‐and‐trade pilots as a quasi‐natural experiment, we apply a propensity score matching and difference‐in‐differences framework. We find robust evidence that cap‐and‐trade policy significantly decreases companies' COE by 0.341% and COD by 0.492%, respectively. The reduction in capital costs makes cap‐and‐trade an attractive policy that can ease financing burdens, promote sustainable investment, and facilitate green transformation toward carbon neutrality. Mechanism analyses suggest that cap‐and‐trade regulation affects cost of capital through environmental information disclosure and current ratio. This study enriches the literature on comprehensive outcomes of cap‐and‐trade regulation in emerging economies and offers implications for regulators, managers, and stakeholders navigating the transition toward a net‐zero future.
Assessing Urban Freight Tours: A Machine Learning and Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment Approach for Logistics Management
Authors: Chakravarthy Sakthivelan , Kishore Aakanksha , Prabhakaran Sathiya , Venkadavarahan Marimuthu
Published: January 2025

The main aim of this study is to assess urban freight tours through integrating machine learning with the Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA). The research captures supply chain operations using the Gradient Boosting Regressor (GBR) model with real‐time data from surveys and Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking. These predictions were analysed using LCSA to assess the sustainability impacts of Hydrogen Fuel Light Commercial Vehicles (HFLCVs) and Electric Light Commercial Vehicles (ELCVs) compared to traditional fuel‐based vehicles. HFLCVs show remarkable reductions in ecosystem and health damage by 58% and 61%, indicating substantial environmental and health benefits. Findings suggest that strategic investment in hydrogen‐fuel and electric LCVs can significantly decrease operational costs and environmental impacts, making them crucial for advancing sustainable urban logistics. This research highlights the benefits and possibilities of using an integrated data‐driven approach to achieve urban sustainability, thus creating an urgency to shift policies favouring green urban freight systems.
Catalytic Reduction of Imines with Silylformates: Formation of Silyl Carbamates through CO2 Insertion
Authors: Thyagarajan Neethu , Buhaibeh Ruqaya , Nicolas Emmanuel , Cantat Thibault
Published: January 2025

Silylformates are emerging surrogates of hydrosilanes, able to reduce carbonyl groups in transfer hydrosilylation reactions, with the concomitant release of CO2. In this work, a new reactivity is revealed for silylformates, in the presence of imines. Using ruthenium catalysts, and lithium iodide as a co‐catalyst, imines are shown to undergo hydrocarboxysilylation by formal insertion of CO2 to the N−Si bond of silyl amine to yield silyl carbamates in excellent yields.
Mass transfer resistance of CuCl2 hydrolysis in a fixed bed reactor
Authors: Perera Dilum , Pope Kevin , Naterer Greg F. , Hawboldt Kelly A.
Published: January 2025

The hydrolysis reaction of the copper‐chlorine (Cu‐Cl) cycle is examined in this paper to better understand the corresponding reaction kinetics and mass transfer resistance. The experiment was operated at a temperature of 390°C at atmospheric pressure. The reaction is heterogeneous in which solid reactant CuCl2 and gaseous reactant H2O produce Cu2OCl2 (s) and HCl(g). Heterogeneous behaviour of the reaction causes a resistance to mass transfer of gaseous reactant H2O. The resistance in internal diffusion and a surface reaction with mass transfer was analyzed with respect to the initial solid reactant particle size using a shrinking core model (SCM). The experimentally determined reaction and conversion rates of hydrolysis reaction with respect to time are presented.
Advancing Principled Pharmacoepidemiologic Research to Support Regulatory and Healthcare Decision Making: The Era of Real‐World Evidence
Authors: Hernandez Rohini K. , Critchlow Cathy W. , Dreyer Nancy , Lash Timothy L. , Reynolds Robert F. , Sørensen Henrik T. , Lange Jeff L. , Gatto Nicolle M. , Sobel Rachel E. , Lai Edward Chia‐Cheng , Schoonen Marieke , Brown Jeffrey S. , Christian Jennifer B. , Brookhart M. Alan , Bradbury Brian D.
Published: January 2025

A compilation of factors over the past decade—including the availability of increasingly large and rich healthcare datasets, advanced technologies to extract unstructured information from health records and digital sources, advancement of principled study design and analytic methods to emulate clinical trials, and frameworks to support transparent study conduct—has ushered in a new era of real‐world evidence (RWE). This review article describes the evolution of the RWE era, including pharmacoepidemiologic methods designed to support causal inferences regarding treatment effects, the role of regulators and other health authorities in establishing distributed real‐world data networks enabling analytics at scale, and the many global guidance documents on principled methods of producing RWE. This article also highlights the growing opportunity for RWE to support decision making by regulators, health technology assessment groups, clinicians, patients, and other stakeholders and provides examples of influential RWE studies. RWE holds promise to address important questions that clinical trials typically do not answer about treatment benefits and risks, and to ultimately impact public health by helping to guide decision making across the healthcare ecosystem.
Modifiable risk factors and symptom progression in dementia over up to 8 years—Results of the DelpHi‐MV trial
Authors: Blotenberg Iris , Wittström Felix , Michalowsky Bernhard , Platen Moritz , Wucherer Diana , Teipel Stefan , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Thyrian Jochen René
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated the association between modifiable factors and symptom progression in dementia over up to 8 years.

METHODS

Multilevel growth curve models assessed the role of modifiable risk factors (low education, hearing impairment and its treatment, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes and its treatment, smoking, hypertension and its treatment, obesity, alcohol consumption, social isolation, and visual impairment) on cognitive and functional trajectories in 353 people with dementia.

RESULTS

Higher education was associated with higher initial cognitive status but faster decline. Antidiabetic medication was associated with slower cognitive decline, whereas depression and visual impairment were linked to low baseline functioning and faster cognitive decline.

DISCUSSION

Several modifiable risk factors influenced symptom progression. Education initially had a protective effect, whereas depressive symptoms were linked to worse symptom progression. Treatment of comorbidities (diabetes, visual impairment) could have a positive impact on dementia symptoms. Modifiable risk factors are promising targets for tertiary prevention.

Highlights

Modifiable risk factors were associated with symptom progression in dementia over up to 8 years.

More education was associated with higher initial cognitive status but faster decline.

Depressive symptoms were linked to less favorable symptom progression.

Treatment of comorbidities (diabetes, visual impairment) may positively impact the course of symptoms.

Modifiable risk factors are promising targets for tertiary prevention.
From treetops to river bottoms: Exploring the role of phyllosphere fungi in aquatic fungal communities
Authors: Ochs Callie , Hayer Michaela , Schwartz Egbert , Hungate Bruce , Marks Jane
Published: January 2025

Fungi play a crucial role in aquatic leaf litter decomposition. Aquatic fungi have long been thought to spend the majority of their lives in the water. Here, we explore the possibility of an amphibious life cycle, where phyllosphere fungi spend part of their life cycle in aquatic systems. We used internal transcribed spacer (ITS) fungal sequencing to follow phyllosphere fungi onto submerged litter, and quantitative stable isotope probing (qSIP) to differentiate active and inactive fungi. We found that around 30% of fungi active on aquatic litter entered the stream with the leaf and that these phyllosphere fungi were as active, if not more active than, as the fungi colonizing from the water column. These results demonstrate that phyllosphere fungi are an important part of aquatic fungal communities.
Self‐Trapped Exciton Emission Based on Halogen‐Substituted Metal Halides
Authors: Wei Wenqing , Liu Mei , Zhang Wanxu , Zheng Yongzhuo , Lu Yurui , Guo Fengwan , Wang Juan
Published: January 2025

Recently, organic‐inorganic hybrid metal halides (OIHMs) have been effective white light emitters. Still, the toxicity and instability of lead halides limit their applications. Sb has a relatively similar structure to Pb making it a better substitution. In this work, we synthesized zero‐dimensional antimony‐based OIMHs (BTBAC)2SbCl5 and (BTBAB)2SbBr5 [BTBA+ (BTBA+=benzyl tributyl ammonium ion)]. The chloride photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) is 72.69 % and that of bromide is 17.33 %. Spectral tunability from red to yellow is observed after halogen substitution. Density‐functional theory (DFT) calculations show that halogens change the bandgap structure from (BTBAC)2SbCl5 direct bandgap to (BTBAB)2SbBr5 indirect bandgap. In addition, (BTBAC)2SbCl5 has excellent thermal stability at 455.15 K and optical properties with strong electron‐phonon coupling producing broadband self‐trapped exciton (STE) emission. By mixing (BTBAC)2SbCl5 with a commercial phosphor, a white LED with a color rendering index of 87 was created. We have demonstrated the photoluminescence properties of OIMH materials in terms of the series of halogen atoms. This work injects new innovative ideas for the design of novel photoluminescent materials.
Genetic Improvement of Banana for Resistance to Xanthomonas Wilt in East Africa
Authors: Musabyemungu Anastasie , Tripathi Jaindra Nath , Muiruri Samwel K. , Gaidashova Svetlana V. , Rukundo Placide , Tripathi Leena
Published: January 2025

Banana (Musa spp.) is a staple food and income generation crop, feeding millions worldwide. However, the cultivation of bananas is challenging due to biotic and abiotic production constraints. Among these factors are pests and diseases, especially banana bacterial disease. Banana Xanthomonas wilt (BXW), caused by Xanthomonas campestris pathovar musacearum (Xcm), has the most significant detrimental economic effect on East African banana production. The infection of BXW is rapid and severe; its impact increases over time and causes huge banana yield losses. The Xcm infects and causes disease in all types of bananas except the wild diploid type Musa balbisiana, which is resistant boosting plant immunity for controlling Xcm and other diseases in bananas. Resistant cultivars are the best promising management option for controlling Xcm and other diseases in bananas. All the cultivated bananas are sterile, and have a long generation cycle, which complicates their improvement through conventional breeding. Biotechnological approaches to banana improvement can complement conventional breeding by overcoming some of its challenges. Additionally, genetic engineering could speed up the process of crop improvement, especially for sterile seedless crops like bananas. It is also specific to the target gene and precise modification that avoids unwanted genes in the normal breeding process. Recent developments using genetic engineering and genome editing on bananas have been initiated to tackle these issues. This review article focuses on the challenges of traditional breeding and the progress of genetic engineering and genome editing approaches, aiming to enhance understanding of achieving an essential genetic gain of bananas against the BXW. This understanding is crucial for enhancing food security in East Africa and globally.
Petrogenesis and Tectonic Setting of the Xishan Pluton in Nanling Range: Lithogeochemistry, Zircon U–Pb Chronology and Hf Isotope Evidence
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Yang Wei , Fu Jianming , Lu Youyue , Cheng Shunbo , Qin Zhengwei
Published: January 2025

In this article, a systematic LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U–Pb geochronology study was carried out on the Xishan pluton in Nanling Range. The results show that the formation ages of granitic porphyroclastic lava, medium‐fine‐grained porphyritic granite, and dacite are 154.0 ± 1.2–156.1 ± 2.0, 153.2 ± 0.9–157.3 ± 3.2, and 151.2 ± 3.1 Ma, which are determined to be the early Yanshanian. Geochemical data show that the Xishan pluton was characterised by rich silicone‐alkali and poor calcium–magnesium with K2O/Na2O ratios of 1.65–2.22, Al2O3 of 1.00–1.14, and FeO*/MgO ratios of 8.33–19.0 (with an average of 12.94). The rare earth content of granites ranges from 322.92 to 441.54 ppm, which is significantly higher than the world average. The rare earth element distribution curve is right‐leaning light rare earth enrichment type, with obvious negative europium anomaly, and the δEu values range from 0.06 to 0.24; These rocks are enriched in high‐field‐strength elements (HFSEs, e.g., Ga, Y, Nb, Zr, and Hf) and depleted elements such as Ba, Nd, Sr, P, Ti, etc, with Ga/Al ratios of 2.95 × 10−4 to 4.59 × 10−4 (with an average of 3.50 × 10−4); Zr + Nb + Ce + Y of 367.1–652.5 ppm (with an average of 441.95 ppm) and zircon saturation temperatures Tzr is 755.04°C–892.50°C (with an average of 810.04°C), similar to geochemical features of A‐type granites. The Hf isotope study shows that the εHf(t) of the Xishan pluton ranges from 2.11 to −8.77, and the petrographic, geochemical and available data confirm that it originates from the mixing of crustal and mantle‐derived magma, and the contribution of the latter is < 10%. The hafnium II model age of the Xishan pluton is 1251–1766 Ma, which confirms that its source rocks were detached from the mantle reservoir at the time of the Middle Proterozoic. Combined with the evolutionary history of the Nanling Range area, it is assumed that the Jiangnan Orogenic Zone was partially reactivated by the continuous lateral subduction of the ancient Pacific Plate in the Late Mesozoic, which triggered partial melting of the crust to form the A2‐type granite type, which is the origin of the Xishan pluton.
Risk Factors and Patterns of Drug‐Drug Interactions in Two Categories of Level‐3 Hospitals in Dhaka: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Samadd Md. Abdus , Patwary Farhan Tanvir , Islam Md Momin , Munia Ashfia Tasnim , Sikdar K. M. Yasif Kayes , Sarkar Md. Raihan
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Drug‐drug interactions (DDIs) are a significant health issue that may adversely affect the health and well‐being of patients. This study assesses and compares potential DDI (pDDI) patterns, severity, and associated risk factors in government and private hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Methods

A total of 188 and 206 prescriptions were collected from various government and private hospitals' outdoor departments, respectively, by capturing pictures of the prescriptions. Bivariate analyses were performed through STATA 15. MedScape drug interaction checker was applied to identify pDDIs, while their consequences were obtained from DrugBank and MedScape.

Results

Private hospitals had more pDDIs containing prescriptions than government hospitals (62.62% and 57.97%, respectively). The mean pDDIs cases were 3.29 in the private hospitals, while at government hospitals they were 3.02. Among the detected pDDIs, pharmacodynamic pDDIs were predominat, accounting for 63.32% and 66.23% of total events in government and private hospitals, respectively. Severity‐wise, both types of hospitals had almost equal amounts of serious (10.34% vs. 9.18%), moderate (68.96% vs. 59.61%), and minor (20.06% vs. 21.79%) pDDIs. Polypharmacy was crucial in pDDI cases, responsible for 70.21% and 81.83% of pDDIs in government and private hospitals, respectively. Multiple comorbidities with pDDIs were more common in private hospitals (24.46% vs. 18.93%), while government hospitals displayed a higher frequency of pDDIs with one comorbidity (24.75% vs. 17.55%). Non‐mention of comorbidities was correlated with both types of hospitals (p ≤ 0.01) in pDDIs cases. Furthermore, considerable amounts of pDDIs in prescription error categories were detected. Both types of hospitals had a prevalence of antihypertensive, antidiabetic, psychotic, and antiplatelet‐related pDDIs.

Conclusion

The two kinds of hospitals exhibited similar pDDI patterns, while their associations were random with the risk variables. When prescribing pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics pDDIs, physicians should evaluate the risk‐benefit ratio.
Soret‐Induced Convection in a Layered Porous Medium Simulating an Anticlinal Geological Fold Under the Action of a Geothermal Temperature Gradient
Authors: Lyubimova Tatyana , Shubenkov Ivan , Ozhgibesova Nadezhda
Published: January 2025

The paper is devoted to the investigation of three‐dimensional Soret‐induced convection in a three‐layer porous system imitating an anticlinal geological fold, under the influence of a geothermal temperature gradient. The layer porosities are the same and the permeabilities are different. The mixture of tetralin and dodecane is considered as a fluid saturating the porous medium. First, we study the linear stability of the motionless state of a binary mixture in an inclined porous layer under the vertical temperature gradient. It is found that at any layer inclination angle, the most dangerous disturbances are longitudinal rolls with finite wave numbers in perpendicular direction. With the system parameters under consideration, the presence of an impurity can change the convection threshold in both directions depending on the layer inclination angle. The threshold change can reach 26%. Nonlinear calculations are performed for fixed permeabilities of the external layers, lower than the threshold value according to the linear theory. Calculations have shown that after a long period of time from the beginning of the process (about 500 years or more for lower permeabilities), a flow arises. The development of a steady flow occurs over a long period of up to 6000 years. It is found that at small permeabilities of all layers, arising flow has a longwave character. With the increase of permeability of the middle layer (higher than ), the flow in the plane of a geological fold limbs takes the form of longitudinal rolls and in the perpendicular direction the flow structure becomes multicellular, this flow structure well corresponds to the linear stability results. The flow is localized in the middle layer and significantly influences the concentration field.
The Protective Effects of Annexin A1 in Acute Lung Injury Mediated by Nrf2
Authors: Huang Hui , Shi Yuqin , Zhou Yuequan
Published: January 2025

Background

Acute lung injury (ALI), one of the most severe respiratory system diseases, is prevalent worldwide. Annexin A1 (AnxA1) is an important member of the annexin superfamily, known for its wide range of physiological functions. However, its potential protective effect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced ALI remains unclear.

Materials and Methods

Mice were divided into four groups: Sham, LPS + vehicle, LPS + 0.1 μg AnxA1, and LPS + 0.5 μg AnxA1. Lung injury was assessed through histopathology, pulmonary wet‐to‐dry (W/D) ratio, cell counting of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), oxidative stress analysis, and noninvasive pulmonary function testing. Gene and protein expression levels were measured using RT‐PCR, ELISA, and western blot analysis.

Results

AnxA1 alleviated LPS‐induced ALI by protecting lung tissue from damage, reducing the lung wet/dry (W/D) weight ratio, and improving LPS‐induced impaired lung function. Interestingly, administration of AnxA1 was found to repress the infiltration of inflammatory cells by decreasing the total cell count, neutrophils, and protein concentrations in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). AnxA1 mitigated the inflammatory response in the pulmonary tissue by lowering the levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in BALF of ALI mice. Additionally, AnxA1 attenuated oxidative stress in lung tissues of ALI mice by restoring the activity of catalase (CAT), SOD, and glutathione (GSH) but reducing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA). We also found that AnxA1 suppressed activation of the NLRP3 signaling pathway. Mechanistically, AnxA1 activated the Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway while preventing the activation of NF‐κB.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings suggest that AnxA1 alleviates LPS‐induced ALI and might be a promising novel therapeutic agent against LPS‐induced ALI.
Regulatory T Cell Phenotype Related to Cytokine Expression Patterns in Post‐COVID‐19 Pulmonary Fibrosis and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Gangi Sara , Bergantini Laura , Paggi Irene , Spalletti Marco , Cameli Paolo , Bargagli Elena , d'Alessandro Miriana
Published: January 2025

Background

Post‐coronavirus disease 19 lung fibrosis (PCLF) shares common immunological abnormalities with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), characterized by an unbalanced cytokine profile being associated with the development of lung fibrosis. The aim of the present study was to analyze and compare the different subsets of CD4‐ and CD8‐T cells, along with specific cytokine expression patterns, in peripheral blood (PB) from patients affected by PCLF and IPF and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

One‐hundred patients followed at the Rare Lung Disease Center of Siena University Hospital were enrolled. Eight HCs were recruited. PB samples were collected, and CD4‐ and CD8‐T subsets were analyzed through flow cytometry. Multiplex bead‐based LEGENDplex™ were used for cytokine quantification.

Results

Higher CD8 percentages were observed in IPF than in HCs and PCLF (p = 0.020 and p = 0.007, respectively). PCLF subgroup showed higher Th‐naïve, Th‐effector, Tc‐naïve, and Tc‐reg percentages than IPF (p < 0.001; p = 0.018; p = 0.005; p = 0.017, respectively). Th‐naïve and Tc‐naïve inversely correlated with Tc‐reg (p < 0.0001, r = −0.61 and p = 0.005, r = −0.39, respectively). Tc‐naïve‐PD1 and Tc‐effector‐PD1 percentages were higher in PCLF than IPF (p < 0.001), while Tfh‐reg and Tfc‐reg were significantly higher in IPF than PCLF (p < 0.001). IL‐4, IL‐2, TNF‐α, and IL‐17A were more expressed in PCLF than IPF (p < 0.001). IL‐8 directly correlated with Tc‐naïve percentages in PCLF (p = 0.018, r = 0.35).

Conclusion

A variety of immune cells is involved in the development and progression of pulmonary fibrosis confirming an immunological similarity between IPF and PCLF. T‐reg cells play a key role in the worsening of the disease. High cytokine values showed a pro‐fibrotic environment in PCLF patients, suggesting dysregulation of the immune system of these patients. Moreover, the immunological similarity between IPF and PCLF patients suggests that SARS‐CoV2 infection may trigger the activation of biological pathways common with IPF.
Advanced carbon as emerging energy materials in lithium batteries: A theoretical perspective
Authors: Yu Legeng , Chen Xiang , Yao Nan , Gao Yu‐Chen , Yuan Yu‐Hang , Gao Yan‐Bin , Tang Cheng , Zhang Qiang
Published: January 2025

Lithium batteries are becoming increasingly vital thanks to electric vehicles and large‐scale energy storage. Carbon materials have been applied in battery cathode, anode, electrolyte, and separator to enhance the electrochemical performance of rechargeable lithium batteries. Their functions cover lithium storage, electrochemical catalysis, electrode protection, charge conduction, and so on. To rationally implement carbon materials, their properties and interactions with other battery materials have been probed by theoretical models, namely density functional theory and molecular dynamics. This review summarizes the use of theoretical models to guide the employment of carbon materials in advanced lithium batteries, providing critical information difficult or impossible to obtain from experiments, including lithiophilicity, energy barriers, coordination structures, and species distribution at interfaces. Carbon materials under discussion include zero‐dimensional fullerenes and capsules, one‐dimensional nanotubes and nanoribbons, two‐dimensional graphene, and three‐dimensional graphite and amorphous carbon, as well as their derivatives. Their electronic conductivities are explored, followed by applications in cathode and anode performance. While the role of theoretical models is emphasized, experimental data are also touched upon to clarify background information and show the effectiveness of strategies. Evidently, carbon materials prove promising in achieving superior energy density, rate performance, and cycle life, especially when informed by theoretical endeavors.

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AI‐Driven Big Data Analytics for Mobile Healthcare
Authors: Parameshachari B. D. , Pelusi Danilo , Goswami Bhargavi
Published: January 2025

This special issue highlights the key insights into the emerging trends and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) driven big data analytics in mobile healthcare. The selected twenty‐six articles, which include two letters, explore innovative applications and advancements in AI‐driven healthcare technologies. The contributions of selected articles are divided into four main themes: Medical technology in healthcare communication and AI‐driven healthcare, Fitness and Sports in Health Technology, Mental Health based on Behavior Analysis, and Healthcare Data Privacy with Blockchain. These articles collectively advance our understanding of AI applications in healthcare and reveal significant advancements in diagnostic accuracy, patient monitoring, data security and predictive analytics. Additionally, this review discusses the research findings and implications that will lead to groundbreaking insights in real‐world applications, which could provide a clear path for learning a current healthcare technology in mobile health with AI.