bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adjustable Selectivity for CO2 Electroreduction to Ethylene or Ethanol by Regulating Interphases Between Copper and Tin Oxides
Authors: Liu Huan , Yang Chenghan , Bian Tong , Yu Huijun , Zhou Yuming , Zhang Yiwei , Sun Li
Published: February 2025

Enhancing the selectivity of C2 products and revealing the reaction mechanisms in CO2 electroreduction reaction (CO2RR) remain challenging. Regulating the interphases in catalysts is one of the most promising pathways. Herein, the interphases between copper (Cu) and tin (Sn) oxides are regulated by controlling the degree of reduction during the self‐assembly process, which exhibits obvious different selectivity to ethylene and ethanol, respectively. The interphase in Cu‐SnO2 exhibits selectivity to ethanol as high as 74.6%, while the interphase in Cu2O‐SnO2 shows selectivity to ethylene as high as 71.4% at –0.6 V versus RHE. In situ Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy measurements and density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the interphase in Cu‐SnO2 shows strong electron interaction, preferentially forming the key *COH intermediates for asymmetrical C─C coupling to produce ethanol. In contrast, Cu2O‐SnO2 possesses oxygen vacancies at both sites, thus enriching *CO intermediates for symmetrical C─C coupling to produce ethylene at the interphase. The findings in this work offer an advanced strategy by regulating the interphases to adjust C2 selectivity in CO2RR.
On the Electrochemical Performance and Capacity Losses Seen for LiFePO4 Electrodes in Carbonate Electrolytes at Potentials up to 5.0 V versus Li+/Li
Authors: Etman Ahmed S. , Nyholm Leif
Published: February 2025

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) is widely considered as a low‐potential positive electrode material. Herein, the high‐voltage stability and capacity retention of LFP composite electrodes are investigated at potentials up to 5.0 V (versus Li+/Li) using Li‐metal containing half‐cells and an electrolyte composed of 1.0 M LiPF6 dissolved in 1:1 ethylene carbonate (EC)/diethyl carbonate (DEC). The results indicate that LFP electrodes are stable at such high potentials and that cycling up to 5.0 V (versus Li+/Li) at a rate of 1 C yields a 15% higher capacity compared to cycling up to 4.0 V (versus Li+/Li). The results further indicate that the lithiation of delithiated LFP electrode is incomplete. This yields a diffusion‐controlled capacity loss as some Li+ ions (and associated electrons) diffuse too far into the electrode to be accessible on the timescale of the subsequent delithiation. Analogue diffusion‐controlled capacity losses are also demonstrated for LFP–graphite full‐cells cycled up to 4.0 and 5.0 V. These insights, pave the way for new approaches to minimize capacity losses for lithium‐ion batteries. The demonstrated high‐voltage stability of LFP, also indicates that LFP can be used as a protective coating on high‐voltage transition metal oxide positive electrodes.
Applicability of soil pore size distribution derived from digital microscopy images to determination of water retention curve
Authors: Hayashi Yuki
Published: February 2025

Information on the water retention curve (WRC) is required for the numerical simulation of water flow; however, its acquisition is time‐ and cost‐consuming. In this study, the applicability of two‐dimensional (2D) image of soil taken by a digital microscope to WRC measurement was assessed. For this purpose, four undisturbed soil samples were collected at surface (10–15 cm) and undersurface (22.5–27.5 cm) depths to acquire 2D images and measure WRCs from the conventional method, pressure plate method. To derive the WRCs, soil pore‐size distribution in soil images was manually extracted using the following three methods: In Methods 1 and 2, the fuzzy region and the dark region, respectively, in the image were assumed to be a soil pore, and in Method 3, the pore boundary, being assumed to be a bright part, connected the lines and divided the region into pores. Method 3 had much large‐size pores (>75 µm in radius) at deeper depths than at surface depths. This trend was the same as the pressure plate method. The WRCs in three methods were well fitted to the lognormal model. In all methods, the values of parameter of θe were larger at surface layers than at deeper depths, of which similar result was also seen in the pressure plate method. We discussed applicability of the parameters. It is effective to determine θe from the pressure plate method and the other parameters (ψm and σ) from the image‐based method. From those analyses, it could be said to prove to obtain WRC from an image‐based method.
Assessing the Impacts of Maritime Freight Rates on Global Beef Trade
Authors: Hossen Md Deluair , Muhammad Andrew
Published: February 2025

In this study, we examine the impact of container freight rates on global beef import demand by source. We address key questions about the effects of rising freight rates on major beef exporters such as Australia, the United States, and Brazil. Our estimates reveal varying global price and import demand effects, with significant declines in trade volume when freight rates double. The global import demand for beef from major exporters decreases by 7% (Ireland) to 27.6% (Uruguay), underscoring the critical role of transportation costs in shaping international beef trade. Countries like Argentina, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Uruguay experience more than a 20% decrease in global import demand with a doubling of freight rates. Interestingly, despite the proximity of the United States to major markets like China, Japan, and South Korea, beef imports from Brazil and Australia are more impacted by freight rates than U.S. beef.
Multiphysics and multizone modeling of electrically switched ion exchange with self‐driven adsorption for Li+ extraction
Authors: Zhang Xuefeng , Pei Tong , Gao Fengfeng , Du Xiao , Zhang Zhonglin , Xing Lei , Liu Zhong , Li Jun , Hao Xiaogang
Published: February 2025

Electrically switched ion exchange (ESIX) is a promising approach for extracting Li+ from brines with high Mg/Li ratios. However, the effect of operating conditions and film electrode parameters on electrochemical performance remains unclear. Herein, a dynamic multiphysics and multizone model was developed to describe the ESIX process with self‐driven adsorption, using an LMO/PPy electrode pair for ion and charge transport. The results revealed that a flow velocity of 0.0125 m/s and a PPy/LMO mass ratio of 15:1 can effectively reduce Li+ concentration polarization and activate electroactive sites, respectively. Additionally, the high solid volume fraction of LMO particles increases the concentration difference of electroactive sites, thereby enhancing Li+ extraction performance. Meanwhile, low currents (≤25 mA/g) narrow the gap between the interfacial exchange current and the applied current, hence improving Li+ extraction efficiency. This model serves as an efficient in‐silico tool for designing and optimizing electrochemical Li+ extraction processes.
The effect of ionic liquid [Bmim][BF4] on the kinetics of CO2 desorption in amine solutions
Authors: Jia Rui‐Qi , Xue Zhi‐Yuan , Liang Shuang , Chu Guang‐Wen , Zhang Liang‐Liang , Chen Jian‐Feng
Published: February 2025

Here, the effect of ionic liquid (IL) on the kinetics of CO2 desorption in amine solutions was investigated. N‐(2‐aminoethyl) ethanolamine (AEEA) and N,N‐diethylethanolamine (DEEA) were used as representatives of primary/secondary and tertiary amines. Results indicated that IL had a promoting effect on AEEA, but not on DEEA. The initial desorption rate of AEEA can be improved by up to 36.4%. Kinetics for IL‐activated AEEA was developed through a modified Arrhenius equation, and the activation energy was 38.48 kJ/mol, which was 10.7% lower than that of AEEA. The species distribution was monitored by 13C NMR, which showed that the IL was not directly involved in the reaction, but might activate desorption through hydrogen bonding. Furthermore, theoretical calculations revealed that the IL can form hydrogen bonding with carbamate during the desorption of primary/secondary amines to lower the energy barrier for the zwitterion formation reaction, while only weaker hydrogen bonding was formed during the desorption of tertiary amines.
A conceptual model for co‐developing a culturally tailored intervention for Latina immigrant caregivers of children with disabilities
Authors: Suarez‐Balcazar Yolanda , Yu Amy Pei‐Lung , Brown Stephany , Brown‐Hollie Jasmine , Crostley Adriana , Parra‐Medina Deborah , Saenz Mariela , Mirza Mansha , Velasquez Aileen , Vanegas Sandra , Magaña Sandy
Published: February 2025

The growing diversity of the U.S. population, partly due to immigration, has called attention to scholars and practitioners to attend to immigrants' cultural beliefs, values, and ways of doing when designing interventions to promote health and wellbeing. In this paper, we propose a contextual and dynamic model for co‐developing a culturally tailored intervention with the community to advance equity and empowerment of Latinx immigrant caregivers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Grounded in the literature and voices of the community, the proposed model includes six interactive dimensions (LARREDS) that guided the development of the PODER Familiar intervention described here. These include language and linguistic preferences; accessibility factors; reflecting the group's values, ways of thinking and doing; reflecting generational differences; dimensions of delivery and learning style; and the social, ecological, and cultural environment. Informed by principles of family engagement, the model also includes eight strategies for engaging caregivers throughout the intervention. The conceptual model was co‐developed with promotoras who also provided input on the PODER Familiar intervention. While describing the model in action, we highlight the voices of the promotoras. The implications of culturally tailored interventions and the application of the model to designing interventions for other migrant populations are discussed.
Exploring the co‐morbid relationship between Alzheimer's disease and lung cancer in the 5xFAD transgenic mouse model
Authors: Li Mingfeng , Wu Xinghan , Jiang Lin , Liu Min , Yanju Gong , Li Xiaomeng , Tian Fan , Ye Fan , Wang Jinlong , Wang Siyuan , Qin Chuan , Zhang Ling
Published: February 2025

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and lung cancer are leading causes of mortality among the older population. Epidemiological evidence suggests an antagonistic relationship between them, whereby patients with AD exhibit a reduced risk of developing cancer and vice versa. However, the precise mechanism by which AD antagonizes lung cancer progression warrants further elucidation.

Methods

To this end, we established a co‐morbidity model using 5xFAD transgenic mice induced with the carcinogen urethane. We visualized and quantified surface lung tumor colonies, assessed pathological parameters associated with lung cancer and AD using histopathological analysis, and employed single‐cell sequencing and molecular pathological analyses to explore the mechanisms by which AD confers resistance to lung cancer.

Results

Our findings revealed a significant reduction in lung tumor incidence in the AD group compared with that in the wild‐type (WT) group. The results indicated a close association between AD‐induced inhibition of lung tumor progression and iron homeostasis imbalance and increased oxidative stress. Moreover, greater CD8+ T cytotoxic lymphocyte and effector natural killer cell infiltration in the lung tumor tissues of AD mice and enhanced CD8+ T cytotoxic lymphocyte‐mediated killing of target cells may be the primary factors contributing to the inhibition of lung tumor growth in the presence of AD.

Conclusion

This study identified essential mechanisms through which AD suppresses lung tumorigenesis, thereby providing targets for potential therapeutic interventions in these diseases.
Vitamin B12 Levels Association with Functional and Structural Biomarkers of Central Nervous System Injury in Older Adults
Authors: Beaudry‐Richard Alexandra , Abdelhak Ahmed , Saloner Rowan , Sacco Simone , Montes Shivany C. , Oertel Frederike C. , Cordano Christian , Jabassini Nour , Ananth Kirtana , Gomez Apraham , Keihani Azeen , Chapman Makenna , Javvadi Sree , Saha Shikha , Staffaroni Adam , Songster Christopher , Warren Martin , Boscardin John W. , Kramer Joel , Miller Bruce , Miller Joshua W. , Green Ralph , Green Ari J.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Vitamin B12 (B12) plays a critical role in fatty‐ and amino‐acid metabolism and nucleotide synthesis. While the association between B12 deficiency and neurological dysfunction is well‐known, the exact threshold for adequacy remains undefined in terms of functional impairment and evidence of injury. The objective was to assess whether B12 levels within the current normal range in a cohort of healthy older adults may be associated with measurable evidence of neurological injury or dysfunction.

Methods

We enrolled 231 healthy elderly volunteers (median age 71.2 years old) with a median B12 blood concentration of 414.8 pmol/L (as measured by automated chemiluminescence assay). We performed multifocal visual evoked potential testing, processing speed testing, and magnetic resonance imaging to assess neurological status. Moreover, we measured serum biomarkers of neuroaxonal injury, astrocyte involvement, and amyloid pathology.

Results

Low (log‐transformed) B12, especially decreased holo‐transcobalamin, was associated with visual evoked potential latency delay (estimate = −0.04; p = 0.023), processing speed impairment (in an age‐dependent manner; standardized β = −2.39; p = 0.006), and larger volumes of white matter hyperintensities on MRI (β = −0.21; p = 0.039). Remarkably, high levels of holo‐haptocorrin (biologically inactive fraction of B12) correlated with serum levels of Tau, a biomarker of neurodegeneration (β = 0.22, p = 0.015).

Interpretation

Healthy older subjects exhibit neurological changes at both ends of the measurable “normal” B12 spectrum. These findings challenge our current understanding of optimal serum B12 levels and suggest revisiting how we establish appropriate nutritional recommendations. ANN NEUROL 2025
Efficacy and Safety of Dual Antiplatelet Treatment up to 72 Hours in Acute Ischemic Stroke Stratified by Glycemic Status
Authors: Zhou Qi , Gao Ying , Chen Weiqi , Johnston S. Claiborne , Amarenco Pierre , Bath Philip M. , Wang Xuan , Yan Hongyi , Wang Tingting , Yang Yingying , Zhang Yanli , Yang Qingwu , Wang Mengxing , Jing Jing , Wang Chunjuan , Wang Yongjun , Wang Yilong , Pan Yuesong
Published: February 2025

Objective

The objective was to investigate the efficacy and safety of clopidogrel‐aspirin versus aspirin alone in patients after ischemic stroke by glycemic status using data from the Intensive Statin and Antiplatelet Therapy for Acute High‐risk Intracranial or Extracranial Atherosclerosis (INSPIRES) trial.

Methods

Patients with mild ischemic stroke or high‐risk transient ischemic attack (TIA) were randomized to clopidogrel‐aspirin or aspirin alone. They were categorized into 3 subgroups according to glycemic status based on medical history and diagnosis by a clinician during hospitalization: without type 2 diabetes mellitus, with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, and with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes were new stroke and moderate‐to‐severe bleeding risk within 90‐day follow‐up.

Results

A total of 6,100 patients were enrolled (3,050 in each arm), with a median age of 65 years (interquartile range [IQR], 57–71) and 2,185 female (35.8%). Clopidogrel‐aspirin treatment was associated with a reduction in recurrent stroke compared with aspirin alone in patients without type 2 diabetes mellitus (6.3% vs 8.4%; hazard ratio [HR], 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.59–0.94; p = 0.01) and those with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (5.8% vs 13.0%; HR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.14–0.66; p = 0.002), but not in those with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (10.0% vs 9.9%; HR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.72–1.33; p = 0.88) (p for interaction = 0.03). Moderate‐to‐severe bleeding events did not differ significantly by treatment across glycemic subgroups.

Interpretation

In the INSPIRES trial, patients without or with type 2 diabetes mellitus derived greater benefit from clopidogrel‐aspirin than those with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus after mild ischemic stroke or high‐risk TIA.

Trial Registration

INSPIRES, NCT03635749. Registered 15 August 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/search?cond=NCT03635749. ANN NEUROL 2025
Two‐Dimensional Perovskites for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Kaur Jagmeet , Peter Sebastian C
Published: February 2025

The photocatalytic conversion of Carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable chemicals is one of the most promising approaches for addressing the CO2 emission problem. However, several issues still need to be resolved to increase the efficiency of photocatalytic reaction. Perovskites possess superior light absorption capacity, tunable band gap, high defect tolerance, and diverse dimensionality. Among them, two‐dimensional (2D) perovskites are more stable under photocatalytic conditions and have an exciting excitonic characteristics compared to three‐dimensional (3D) perovskites. 2D perovskites have unique physical and chemical properties, such as, high stability, polaron formation, quantum well structures, and high exciton binding energies, which remain underexplored for photocatalytic CO2 reduction (pCO2RR). Tuning of these properties is easier in 2D perovskites than 3D perovskites by varying the layer thickness and spacer cations. Therefore, 2D perovskites photocatalysts are emerging as promising materials for reducing CO2 into valuable products. This review discusses the classification and synthesis methods for 2D perovskites, the unique properties that make it favorable for photocatalysis, and recent advances in applying 2D perovskites for pCO2RR by monitoring the operational methodology. It also emphasizes potential for future developments in photocatalysis using 2D perovskites.
[C2N4H7O][NH2SO3]: High‐performance Ultraviolet Nonlinear Optical Crystal with Ditrigon Coupled Guanylurea Group
Authors: Wen Xin , Yan Yuchen , Lu Jingyao , Shi Xuemei , Tang Piao , Chen Jindong , Yang Guangsai , Peng Guang , Yu Haohai , Zhang Huaijin , Hu Zhanggui , Wang Jiyang , Ye Ning
Published: February 2025

The Development of high‐performance short‐wave ultraviolet (UV) nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals is critical in the field of optoelectronic functional crystals. High‐performance NLO functional units are crucial for achieving desired target crystals. In this study, a promising group, guanylurea ([C2N4H7O]+, abbreviated as GU), was investigated using a unit coupling strategy. Furthermore, by modifying the KBe2BO3F2 template structure at the molecular level, the first metal‐free guanylurea sulfamate [C2N4H7O][NH2SO3] was successfully synthesized. This crystal achieved an effective balance between the short UV cutoff edge (227 nm), strong second‐harmonic generation (SHG) response (6.2´KDP), and large birefringence (0.225@1064 nm). In addition, the remarkable phase‐matching capability provides the potential for a fourth‐harmonic generation (266 nm) in the Nd: YAG laser. Theoretical calculations indicated that GU and its favorable arrangement were primarily responsible for the large SHG effect and birefringence. Our study demonstrates that the GU group is promising for the development of UV NLO crystals.
High‐Performance White Circularly Polarized Photoluminescence and Electroluminescence from Multi‐Emission Enantiomers
Authors: Zhao Pei , Guo Wei-Chen , Lu Hai-Yan , Chen Chuan-Feng
Published: February 2025

A pair of multi‐emission enantiomers, (R)‐DO‐PSeZ and (S)‐DO‐PSeZ, was designed and synthesized by integrating Se‐induced conformationally isomeric donors with a chiral carbonyl‐containing acceptor into a unified molecular framework. The enantiomers showed white emission with blue, yellow and red multi‐emission bands in solution and film at CIE coordinates of (0.39, 0.35) and (0.33, 0.34), respectively. Doped film of the enantiomers achieved a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 42%, accompanied by mirror‐image white circularly polarized photoluminescence (WCPPL) signals with a |g𝑃𝐿| value of 2.6 × 10‐3. Moreover, the enantiomers also showed white circularly polarized electroluminescence (WCPEL) in organic light‐emitting diodes with CIE coordinates of (0.29, 0.33) and EQEmax of 3.1%. Notably, this work represents the first single‐molecule multi‐emission WCPL materials and achieved the highest performance for white OLEDs based on single‐molecule organic materials with phosphorescent properties. Furthermore, leveraging Bragg reflection from dual‐layer cholesteric liquid crystals, the enantiomers achieved |gPL| and |gEL| values of 1.85 and 1.88, respectively, marking the highest reported values for WCPPL and WCPEL to date.
Step‐Edge Guided Homoepitaxy Enables Highly Reversible Zn Plating/Stripping
Authors: Chen Shuang , Luo Zhen , Xia Yufan , Wu Xingxing , Wang Kebing , Yan Mi , Pan Hongge , Bin Xu Ben , Jiang Yinzhu
Published: February 2025

Metal anodes are of profound impact towards the realization of energy‐dense rechargeable batteries. However, the “hostless” metal redox always presents the disordered plating/stripping, aggravated by the side reactions and local anisotropy that cause the formation of excessive dendrites/voids and quickly lead to battery failure. Here we report step‐edge guided homoepitaxy enabling ordered layer‐by‐layer Zn plating/stripping regardless of the (dis)charging conditions. Through engineering the atomic terrace height on the mono‐oriented Zn(0002) foil anodes, both in‐plane and out‐of‐plane epitaxy aligned to the underlying Zn lattice are demonstrated via the favored edge nucleation and strong interfacial interaction driven by the surface/interface energy minimization, achieving the electrochemical homoepitaxy of continuous, submillimeter‐scale Zn(0002) crystal with nearly 100 % theoretical density. Accordingly, we achieve a high Coulombic efficiency of 99.8 %, high depths of discharge exceeding 51 % and 82 % along with record‐high lifetimes of over a thousand and hundreds of hours, respectively, in zinc metal batteries. The breakthrough results provide new insights on the intrinsic metal plating/stripping from the view of reversible homoepitaxy for rechargeable energy‐dense metal batteries.
Dual Defects‐Induced Iron Single Atoms Immobilized in Metal–Organic Framework‐Derived Hollow BiOBr Microtubes for Low‐Barrier Photocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction
Authors: Wang Xiaosong , Gao Rong , Fan Guilan , Guo Yan , Han Chenhui , Gao Yuliang , Shen Ao , Wu Limin , Gu Xiaojun
Published: February 2025

The rational design of single‐atom catalysts with precise coordination environment and high separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers is critical yet challenging to achieve efficient photocatalytic nitrogen reduction. Herein, we design and construct a defective photocatalyst featuring Fe single atoms immobilized in hollow BiOBr microtube using a plasma‐assisted synthesis strategy, where the Bi‐based metal–organic framework is used as sacrificial template. The dual vacancies of oxygen (VO) and bromine (VBr) are created in the BiOBr microtube and induce the formation of coordinatively unsaturated FeO5 configuration, where four oxygen atoms are from [Bi2O2]2+ units and one oxygen atom is located in the VBr. Specially, the hollow catalyst with dual defects and FeO5 moiety exhibits 1.4 and 2.2 times higher ammonia production activity than another two VBr‐featuring catalysts with coordinatively saturated FeO6 configuration and unsaturated FeO4 configuration, respectively. As revealed by experimental and theoretical calculation results, the optimized catalyst with the FeO5 configuration reduces the energy barrier of electron transfer from Fe 3d orbitals to antibonding orbitals of N2 molecules, which favors the formation of a key *NNH intermediate in the N2 fixation reaction and the resultant efficient ammonia production.
Synergy from the Stepped Hollow FeHCFe Nanocubes and the Dimorphic Polypyrrole for High‐Performance Electrochemical Water Desalination
Authors: Liu Yu , Luo Kunyue , Xing Wenle , Yin Wenjun , Feng Jing , Pi Shuaishuai , Kang Zixiao , Liang Jie , Tang Lin , Tang Wangwang
Published: February 2025

Saline water desalination serves as an important route to increase freshwater supply, while capacitive deionization (CDI) has emerged as a promising technique to tackle this issue. To boost the successful application of CDI, development of advanced electrode materials is vital. Herein, we innovatively designed and synthesized a sophisticated Prussian blue/dimorphic polypyrrole composite for the hybrid CDI (HCDI). Specifically, the nanoparticle‐like polypyrrole (PPy) in situ distributed on the surface of stepped hollow FeHCFe nanocubes, while the coexisting nanotube‐like PPy interconnected the discrete stepped hollow FeHCFe nanocubes. The introduction of PPy nanoparticles/nanotubes promoted both electron and ion dynamics, and improved the electrochemical activity of FeHCFe. Meanwhile, the FeHCFe nanocubes with concave stepwise architecture on each side offered large accessible contact area for electrolyte, reduced Na+ migration path, improved tolerance for lattice expansion, and optimized redox sites for Na+ storage. Through such unique structural design and synergistic combination, the FeHCFe/PPy with appropriate component ratio achieved a remarkable desalination capacity and a fast desalination rate along with excellent cycling performance, outperforming other related materials. Moreover, the treated solution can meet the drinking water standard within 6 min via the use of six tandem HCDI cells. Density functional theory (DFT) revealed the mechanism of Na+ capture process and provided a fundamental understanding of the rapid Na+ migration and large Na+ storage capability. This study provides insights into ration design of superior electrode materials for high‐performance electrochemical water desalination.
Lactate‐Modulating Nanozyme‐Mediated Mitochondrial Respiration Block for Tumor Immunosuppression Remodeling
Authors: Zhao Senfeng , Hou Jianing , Deng Liu , Qi Ziyu , Tao Na , Ruan Wenjie , Zheng Jia , Wang Wei , Xu Qianqian , Saiding Qimanguli , Kong Na , Liu You-Nian , Tao Wei
Published: February 2025

Abnormal lactate metabolism in tumor cells leads to immune escape in the tumor microenvironment. Intervening in specific lactate metabolic pathways while blocking downstream pyruvate influx holds great promise for overcoming conventional lactate‐targeted therapy limitations such as short half‐life, insufficient lactate consumption, and pathological microenvironment elasticity. Herein, a nanocatalytic medicine based on carbondoping engineered copper nitride enzyme (Cu3N‐C NE) with enhanced lactate oxidase (LOX) activity was carefully designed. Computational results revealed that the introduction of C favors activation of the hydroxyalkyl C−H bond in lactate by the polarization of adjacent hydroxyl groups, correspondingly facilitating the abstraction of hydrogen atoms from the desired α‐C−H and α‐C‐O−H groups in lactate via the hydrogen atom‐transfer (HAT) process. The Cu3N‐C NEs could downregulate lactate levels in tumor cells for robust remodeling of the immunosuppressive microenvironment and further block as‐generated pyruvate to influx into the mitochondrial respiration, achieving lactate homeostasis reprogramming. Our study provides a proof‐of‐concept design of next‐generation lactate‐modulation nanomedicine via heteroatom‐doping and evolution with the additional potential to expedite the industrial production of lactate to pyruvate.
Effect of Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNP) on the Structural, Thermal, and Dielectric Properties of Polypropylene/Polyvinylidenedifluoride (PP/PVDF) Nanocomposites
Authors: Velpula Ravibabu , Angalakurthy Ashokbabu , Nelikanti Ajith Kumar , Paramanandam Thomas
Published: February 2025

Polypropylene/polyvinylidene difluoride/graphene nanoplatelets (PP/PVDF/GNP) nanocomposites are fabricated by incorporation of various weight percentages of GNP (2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 wt.%) into 50/50 vol% blend of PP/PVDF. The melt mix followed by hydraulic hot press is used to get a final nanocomposite with optimal density and thickness. The resulting nanocomposites are characterized for their structural, thermal and dielectric properties. Especially, nanocomposites shown an improved dielectric permittivity compared with PP/PVDF blend. The nanocomposite containing 10 wt.% of GNP achieves a dielectric permittivity of an approximately 20.7, dielectric loss of 0.08 and AC conductivity of 9.6 × 10−11 S/cm at 100 Hz and room temperature. Prompted by these results, influence of temperature and frequency on dielectric properties of PP/PVDF blend and PP/PVDF/GNP‐10 wt.% nanocomposite was analyzed by applying various temperatures and frequencies. The dielectric permittivity and dielectric loss of blend and composite are gradually decreased as frequency increases. Conversely, these properties are increased with rising temperature at lower frequency. However, these properties are almost independent of temperature at higher frequencies. This study supports the significant improvement in structural, thermal and dielectric performance of PP/PVDF polymer matrix by strategic addition of GNP.
Prediction of Tribological Properties of PC‐PBT/GNP‐MWCNT Nanocomposites Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: ÖGE Tuba Özdemir , ÖGE Mecit
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the effect of the incorporation of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) in polycarbonate‐poly(butylene terephthalate) (PC‐PBT) blends on the mechanical and tribological blend properties. PC‐PBT/GNP‐MWCNT nanocomposites were synthesized via melt‐compounding with various filler loadings (0.5, 1, 3, 5, and 7 wt.%). SEM analyses revealed adequate dispersion and strong interaction between the nano‐fillers and the polymer matrix. Mechanical testing demonstrated up to ~16%, ~38%, and ~9% improvement in tensile modulus, bending modulus, and impact strength, respectively, with the optimum nano‐filler fraction of 0.5 wt. %. Tribological assessments, conducted using a pin‐on‐disc apparatus, showed marked reductions in specific wear rates (SWRs) reaching ~87% at the optimal filler loading of 0.5 wt.%. The mechanical behavior of the nanocomposites was found to depend primarily on dispersion state, whereas tribological properties were found to be dictated by a transfer film formation mechanism facilitated by filler addition. The experimental results were corroborated by a Random Forest machine learning model yielding the highest accuracy with R2 = 0.94 for tensile modulus estimations and R2 = 0.82 for SWR estimations under a 10 N load.
Structure and thickness of Glisson's capsule differ considerably on the liver surface in mammalian species
Authors: Uchida Hiroki , Aihara Naoyuki , Morimura Toshifumi , Matsumoto Shoma , Hasegawa Daichi , Ichiki Tomoko , Okamura Eiichi , Muto Masanaga , Sugahara Go , Miki Toshio , Ema Masatsugu , Watanabe Kenichi , Kamiie Junichi , Asahina Kinji
Published: February 2025

Glisson's sheath is the connective tissue ensheathing the portal vein, hepatic artery, and bile duct within the liver. Although the connective tissue surrounding the liver surface is known as Glisson's capsule, its structure and function are poorly understood. In the present study, we analyzed mouse, rat, rabbit, feline, canine, monkey, porcine, bovine, and equine livers by histochemistry and immunohistochemistry analysis of α‐smooth muscle actin, keratin 19, and podoplanin and examined how the structure of the Glisson's capsule is conserved and differs among the nine species. Glisson's capsule tended to thicken as the animal's body size increased. Among the nine mammalian species, bile ducts were observed adjacent to the connective tissue of Glisson's capsule in adult monkey, porcine, bovine, and equine livers without association with portal veins. Fetal monkey and porcine livers exhibited thin Glisson's capsules without bile duct development. The hepatic artery develops in the Glisson's capsule in adult canine, monkey, porcine, bovine, and equine livers without association with the bile ducts and portal veins. Similar to the human liver, the livers of adult monkeys develop lymphatic vessels beneath the liver surface. The present study reveals for the first time that the structure of the Glisson's capsule differs considerably between small (mouse, rat, rabbit, and cat) and large (monkey, pig, cattle, and horse) animals and that the dog exhibits an intermediate structure between the two groups.
Uranium Extraction from Seawater: A Novel Approach Using Aluminum Fumarate‐based Metal‐Organic Framework Aerogels
Authors: Zhao Tao , Wang Xue , Li Jiacheng , Wang Chunqi , Ibragimov Aziz Bakhtiyarovich , Gao Junkuo , Yang Xiaogang
Published: February 2025

Efficient extraction of uranyl ions from seawater is crucial for the commercialization of nuclear technology. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), with their superior uranium extraction properties, face challenges in large‐scale applications due to their powdery nature and the difficulty of assembling them into mechanically stable macroscopic composites. To address this, successfully synthesized 90 wt% nanoMOF (aluminum fumarate) loaded directional aerogels (AlFA‐3‐10) using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as an adhesive, which demonstrates robust strength longitudinally and transversely. Our uranium adsorption experiments reveal that at a pH of 8 (akin to that of seawater), the AlFA‐3‐10 achieves a maximum adsorption capacity of 1146.25 mg g‐1, maintaining this exceptional performance over five cycles. Notably, in simulated seawater, AlFA‐3‐10 exhibits high selectivity for uranyl ions with minimal interference from other ions. The directional pores within AlFA‐3‐10 facilitate fluid transmission and exchange, ensuring optimal contact between the MOF and uranyl ions, thereby enhancing electrostatic attraction and electron transport for improved capture efficiency. This streamlined approach maximizes the intrinsic potential of nano‐MOFs and heralds a new era for their integration into macroscopic composite materials.
Synthesis and Properties of Thiophene‐Quinone Helicenes with Different Molecular Curvature
Authors: Unjaroen Duenpen , Hashmi Yuttawat , Tananchayakul Pichayut , Thongpanchang Tienthong
Published: February 2025

Naphthothiophene‐quinone helicenes with different molecular curvatures, i.e.,NTQ, 2,3‐NDTQ and 2,6‐NDTQ, are synthesized in seven steps. Diels−Alder reaction between p‐benzoquinone and silyl enol ether derived from the corresponding naphthothiophenes was used as a key step. Both UV‐Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry experiments, including DFT calculation demonstrated that, in comparison to the basic thiophene‐quinone system, both M‐shaped (2,3‐NDTQ) and S‐shaped (2,6‐NDTQ) structures possessed a narrower HOMO−LUMO band gap than C‐shaped NTQ, implying the effect of extended conjugation. The change of molecular shape resulted in the shift in both UV‐Vis and fluorescence spectra, but the strong electron withdrawing effect of benzoquinone is more dominant.
Optimal control problems subject to forward and backward stochastic difference equations
Authors: Chen Xin , Yuan Yue , Yuan Dongmei
Published: February 2025

Backward and forward stochastic difference equations are two distinct types of difference equations. In this paper, we explore optimal control problems based on both forward and backward stochastic difference equations. Initially, we study optimal control problems grounded in backward stochastic difference equations and present backward recursive equations as a means of resolving such problems. Through solving these equations, we delve into a bang‐bang optimal control problem, offering an analytical expression for its optimal solution. Building upon these findings, we extend our investigation to encompass a linear quadratic optimal control problem, involving both forward and backward stochastic difference equations. Leveraging backward recursive equations, we derive an analytical expression for the optimal solution to the linear quadratic optimal control problem. Finally, we substantiate the validity of our conclusions through a numerical example.
Analysis of a q‐Deformed Covariant Algebra With the Fock‐Tani Formalism
Authors: de Souza Ramiro R. B. , Hadjimichef Dimiter , Zen Vasconcellos César A.
Published: February 2025

Motivated by the difficulties in the quantization of spacetime, we study a q‐deformed covariant algebra that imposes minimum position and momentum measurement uncertainties. We do this by invoking the Fock‐Tani formalism, mainly used in atomic and nuclear physics. The results are promising for further calculation of physical predictions.
Mn3O4 Tetrahedral with Carbonyldiimidazole Nanoflower Deposition on Laser‐Scribed Graphene for Selective Bio‐Capture
Authors: Remesh Sivainesh Devi , Chelvaraj Jeysree , Perumal Veeradasan , Gopinath Subash C. B. , Ovinis Mark , Karupannan Saravanan , Arumugam Natarajan , Kumar Raju Suresh
Published: February 2025

Dengue fever, a mosquito‐borne viral infection, poses a significant global health challenge, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The absence of non‐effective vaccines and specific treatments underscores the need for advanced diagnostic tools for early detection and management. This study presents a novel biosensor for detecting dengue virus type 4 (DENV‐4) by combining carbonyldiimidazole nanoflower (CDI‐NF) with Mn3O4 on laser‐scribed graphene (LSG). Material characterization techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, TEM, XRD, XPS, and FTIR, were employed to confirm the successful integration of Mn3O4 and CDI‐NF, resulting in a unique 3D flower‐like structure. In order to verify the sensing efficiency, a selective DNA sample captured on LSG/Mn3O4‐CDI‐NF was investigated for specifc binding with Aedes aegypti target DNA through selective hybridization and mismatch analysis. Electrochemical impedance studies further confirmed sensitive detection of up to 1 fM, where the sensitivity was confirmed by large transfer resistance (Rct) before and after hybridization with a regression coefficient 0.97373. EIS results demonstrated successful surface modifications and the biosensor's specificity in distinguishing between complementary, mismatched, and non‐complementary target sequences. The biosensor's ability to differentiate between these sequences highlights its potential for accurate and targeted DENV‐4 detection, offering a promising avenue for advancing dengue diagnostics.
‘Where are the adults?’: Troubling child‐activism and children's political participation
Authors: Hunter Sharon , Cassidy Claire
Published: February 2025

Children's political participation is a well‐established theme in childhood studies. In this article we offer an original account of child activism that takes into account the entangled and emergent aspect of children as activists. We begin with a historical and a conceptual review, noting the importance of mid‐20th century developments such as May 1968 but tracing their roots to the earlier community‐derived activism of the US civil rights movement—a long episode of activism not normally included in accounts of children's political involvement. We consider the ways in which adults surround children, creating contexts and working for and through them with diverse political and social ends in mind. It has been a dominant focus of adult activity to facilitate children's participation rights. These rights are defined in international legislation as non‐contingent, that is, explicitly predicated on an absence of responsibility. Regardless, the relational aspect of responsibility is present in children's lives in families, churches, schools and wherever adults interact with children, whether to protect, instruct, direct or guide them. We conclude by indicating how current historical and conceptual frames do not allow for the complex understanding required to account for children's agency understood as necessarily entangled with adults’ prior being in the world. We advocate a radical relational turn in childhood studies to leave behind the lacuna that arise from individualist accounts of child‐activism.
Methods for Eluting Intact Extracellular Vesicles From Aptamer‐Based Affinity Chromatography: A Critical Evaluation Based on Downstream Applications
Authors: Miller Lian , Misra Manjusri , Li Huiyan
Published: February 2025

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized vesicles released by cells, containing molecular cargo such as proteins and nucleic acids. EVs offer promising avenues for the detection of biomarkers of disease and are excellent candidates for drug delivery and therapeutics. Although EVs can be obtained from biological fluids, it is challenging to obtain intact EVs from complex fluids and there is no universally accepted standard method of isolating EVs. When affinity chromatography‐based isolation is used to isolate EVs from complex biofluids, there exist multiple ways to elute intact EVs from capture. This review aims to identify effective EV elution methods for preserving EV integrity and bioactivity after capture on aptamer‐functionalized substrates, addressing the requirements of various downstream applications. We hypothesize that when used for elution, different materials and techniques influence the characteristics of EVs, such as their molecular content and bioactivity. The elution reagent and technique must be selected for the intended application for isolated EVs. However, currently, there is no agreement on the optimal elution method for EVs. This literature review aims to evaluate the different methods used to elute intact EVs from capture with regards to the downstream applications of isolated EVs. Based on the results of our analysis of recent literatures, the two elution reagents that are optimal for general purposes of the eluted intact EVs are deoxyribonuclease I and complementary oligonucleotides, as they both preserve EV characteristics that are required for molecular analysis and bioactivity, such as maintained morphology and protein profiles.
Mediation Effect of CSF Substance P on the Association Between Smoking and Sleep
Authors: Zhang Xie , Chen Lingling , Wu Yuyu , Chen Yu‐Hsin , Luo Xingguang , Xu Zeping , Hu Weiming , Kang Yimin , Chen Li , Liu Yanlong , Wang Fan , Liu Danhui
Published: February 2025

Background

Cigarette smoking has been linked to severe and persistent sleep disturbances alongside notable fluctuations in neuropeptide levels. Substance P (SubP), influenced by smoking, also impacts sleep‐wake cycles. However, its specific role in smoking‐induced sleep disorders remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the connection between cigarette smoking and sleep quality by examining SubP levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and identifying potential treatment avenues for sleep disorders.

Methods

A total of 146 Chinese men (93 nonsmokers, 53 active smokers) undergoing lumbar puncture before anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were enrolled. Clinical data and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores were assessed, followed by CSF sample collection and CSF SubP level measurement.

Results

Active smokers exhibited significantly higher PSQI scores (4.02 ± 2.27 vs. 2.60 ± 2.46, p < 0.001) and CSF SubP levels (2111 ± 212 vs. 1821 ± 289, p < 0.001) compared to nonsmokers. A negative correlation (r = −0.434, p < 0.001) between SubP levels and PSQI scores was observed in all participants and nonsmokers, while no correlation (r = −0.044, p = 0.72) was found in active smokers. Logistic regression analysis across different dimensions of sleep disorders indicated associations between CSF SubP levels and sleep quality as well as daytime dysfunction (OR = 0.439 (0.211–0.891), p = 0.025; OR = 0.308 (0.152–0.608), p = 0.001). Mediation analysis suggested that CSF SubP levels mediated the relationship between smoking and sleep.

Conclusion

CSF SubP levels are elevated in active smokers and appear to play a mediating role in the relationship between smoking and sleep regulation, as evidenced by a negative correlation between CSF SubP levels and PSQI scores.
A comprehensive review of hydrogel strategies for repairing peripheral nerve injuries
Authors: Jia Shicheng , Zhou Hongfa , Chen Jiayou , Lin Jiashan , Zhu Xinlei , Weng Jian , Li Wei , Yu Fei
Published: February 2025

As an etiological factor underlying physical and mental disability in humans, peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) can induce pain, sensory impairment, and disability. Despite their regenerative ability, peripheral nerves cannot self‐repair after severe defects. While nerve grafting is the gold standard for the treatment of PNIs, it is limited by graft versus host reactions, surgical complications, and limited donor nerves. As the field of material science continues to develop, hydrogels have been proposed for use in PNI repair after their biomodification, targeted modification, or loading with biological factors and cells. This article reviewed research advances in hydrogels used for PNI repair, including simple hydrogels and composite functionalized hydrogels loaded with biological factors and cells. Based on the findings from these reviews, we determined that further clarification of the mechanisms of action for hydrogels and loaded biological factors in modulating cellular functions is necessary. In addition, there is a need to further explore the synergistic effect of novel functionalized hydrogels with other biological, physical, or biochemical factors. While clinical trials are still limited, scientific efforts are expected to promote the application of hydrogels in the field of PNI repair.
Circular Economy Transition in Bangladesh's Ready‐Made Garments Sector: Investigating the Key Barriers Through a Fuzzy DEMATEL Analysis
Authors: Salman Sheak , Shanta Mehedi Hasan , Uday Rifath Mahmud , Rahman Rafat
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on Bangladesh's thriving ready‐made garments (RMG) sector, which plays a pivotal role in the nation's economy. Though the sector has achieved remarkable success in garment exports, transitioning from linear economy (LE) to circular economy (CE) practices is essential for its sustainable production and economic growth. This study identifies and analyzes the critical barriers to the adoption of CE practices in Bangladesh's RMG sector using two systematic stages. The first stage utilizes the identification of 12 key barriers by applying the Delphi method, and the subsequent stage utilizes the Fuzzy Decision‐Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method to explore the causal relationships among these barriers, shedding light on their significance and interdependencies. The findings of the study indicate that limited funding for circular business models emerges as the most influential barrier, underscoring the importance of ensuring adequate funds for CE implementation. Inadequate collaboration of entrepreneurs and researchers and lack of professional in environmental management further hinder the progress, highlighting the need for building collaboration for research and advancements and involving experts for environmental management. This research contributes to sustainable production practices in emerging economies and underscores the importance of CE principles in a global context. The study's comprehensive approach provides valuable insights for RMG industry stakeholders, aiming to enhance CE adoption in the RMG sector, thereby prioritizing the strategic efforts and promoting sustainable practices. By identifying and addressing these barriers, Bangladesh's RMG industry can advance its journey towards a more circular and environmentally responsible future.