bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Entropy Driven Self‐Assembled Dual‐phase Composite Air Electrodes with Enhanced Performance and Stability for Reversible Protonic Ceramic Cells
Authors: Hu Ao , Yang Chenghao , Li Yitong , Xia Kaisheng , Tian Yunfeng , Pu Jian , Chi Bo
Published: February 2025

Reversible proton ceramic cells (R‐PCCs) offer a transformative solution for dual functionality in power generation and energy storage. However, their potential is currently obstacles by the lack of high‐performance air electrodes combining high electrocatalytic activity with durability. Here, an innovative air electrode composed of high‐entropy driven self‐assembled xNiO‐Pr0.2La0.2Ba0.2Sr0.2Ca0.2Fe0.8Ni0.2−xO3−δ (N‐XFN) composites is presented, which result from the unique lattice distortion effects inherent in high‐entropy perovskites. The experimental results coupled with density functional theory (DFT) calculations verify that the lattice distortion at the high‐entropy A‐site significantly induces NiO nanoparticles exsolved from the B‐site, promoting the formation of a biphasic composite structure that dramatically increases the electrochemical active sites. Remarkably, R‐PCCs using the N‐XFN composite air electrode achieve an impressive peak power density of 1.30 W cm−2 in fuel cell mode and a current density of ‐2.52 A cm−2 at 1.3 V in electrolysis mode at 650 °C. In addition, the cells show excellent stability with reversibility over 830 h, including 500 h in electrolysis mode and 330 h in reversible operation at 650 °C. This research provides important insights into the design of high‐entropy perovskites, paving the way for advanced R‐PCCs technology.
Mechano‐Electrochemical Healing at the Interphase Between LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 and Li6PS5Cl in All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Lee Seonghyun , Kim Taehun , Kim Kanghyeon , Song Gawon , Park Junsung , Lee Minseon , Jung Hyeseung , Park Kyobin , Choi Seung Hyun , Song Juyeop , Lee Kyu Tae
Published: February 2025

Sulfide‐based all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) are emerging as promising alternatives to lithium‐ion batteries due to their high energy density and enhanced safety. However, sulfide solid electrolytes, such as Li6PS5Cl (LPSCl), face significant chemo‐mechanical challenges at the interface with layered oxide cathodes, including Li[Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1]O2 (NCM811). During cycling, oxidative decomposition of LPSCl leads to interfacial void formation and mechanical contact loss, which significantly degrade ionic conduction. Strategies such as coating stable passivation layers have been explored to suppress LPSCl decomposition, but these approaches often involve trade‐offs, including increased cost, complex synthesis, and elevated interfacial resistance. Herein, the concept of mechano‐electrochemical healing at the LPSCl–NCM811 interface is introduced to address these issues. During charging, voids form due to LPSCl decomposition; however, this mechanical contact loss can be reversed through a healing mechanism during discharge at ≈2.2 V (vs Li/Li+). This process, driven by the lithiation of elemental sulfur − a decomposition product of LPSCl − restores interfacial contact and enhances ionic conduction. Consequently, mechano‐electrochemical healing achieves stable capacity retention over 300 cycles and superior rate capability even under pressure‐free conditions. These findings underscore the potential of electrochemical formation cycling as a practical strategy for improving the mechano‐electrochemical performance of ASSBs.
Asymmetrically coordinated nickel‐based catalysts for enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Li Shiyi , Wang Keyu , Liang Chen , Lei Linfeng , Wang Yixing , Zhuang Linzhou , Xu Zhi
Published: February 2025

Developing non‐noble metal hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts with high efficiency for water dissociation in alkaline environments is crucial for achieving cost‐effective alkaline water electrolyzer. Surface engineering offers immense potential to design promising HER catalysts with enhanced performance, but it faces multiple challenges such as optimizing hydrogen adsorption energy. Herein, Ni‐based hydroxide catalysts doped with heteroatoms are synthesized via electrodeposition, forming a Co‐doped asymmetric S–Ni–F coordination structure, which requires the overpotential of only 20 mV to reach a current density of −10 mA cm−2, and remains stable for over 100 h at −0.5 A cm−2. DFT calculations reveal that sulfur and fluorine doping could effectively mitigate the energy associated with active hydrogen adsorption and facilitate water molecule dissociation. Furthermore, the electron coupling within the d‐orbital of the Ni–O–Co structure further amplifies the catalytic efficacy. This asymmetric structure offering a pathway for designing high‐efficiency and non‐noble metal alkaline HER catalysts.
Alterations in gut microbiota and metabolites contribute to postoperative sleep disturbances
Authors: Zhong Hui , Jiang Meiru , Yuan Kun , Sheng Fang , Xu Xiuyun , Cui Yong , Sun Xijia , Tan Wenfei
Published: February 2025

Background

The composition of the intestinal flora and the resulting metabolites affect patients' sleep after surgery.

Methods

We intended to elucidate the mechanisms by which disordered intestinal flora modulate the pathophysiology of postoperative sleep disturbances in hosts. In this study, we explored the impacts of anesthesia, surgery, and postoperative sleep duration on the fecal microbiota and metabolites of individuals classified postprocedurally as poor sleepers (PS) and good sleepers (GS), as diagnosed by the bispectral index. We also performed fecal microbiota transplantation in pseudo‐germ‐free (PGF) rats and applied Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and gut permeability analyses to identify the potential mechanism of its effect.

Results

Research finding shows the PS group had significantly higher postoperative stool levels of the metabolites tryptophan and kynurenine than the GS group. PGF rats that received gut microbiota from PSs exhibited less rapid eye movement (REM) sleep than those that received GS microbiota (GS‐PGF: 11.4% ± 1.6%, PS‐PGF: 4.8% ± 2.0%, p < 0.001). Measurement of 5‐hydroxytryptophan (5‐HTP) levels in the stool, serum, and prefrontal cortex (PFC) indicated that altered 5‐HTP levels, including reduced levels in the PFC, caused sleep loss in PGF rats transplanted with PS gut flora. Through the brain–gut axis, the inactivity of tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1) and TPH2 in the colon and PFC, respectively, caused a loss of REM sleep in PGF rats and decreased the 5‐HTP level in the PFC.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that postoperative gut dysbiosis and defective 5‐HTP metabolism may cause postoperative sleep disturbances. Clinicians and sleep researchers may gain new insights from this study.
Enzyme‐Activated Orthogonal Proteolysis Chimeras for Tumor Microenvironment‐Responsive Immunomodulation
Authors: Sun Caixia , Liu Songhan , Lau Jun Wei , Yang Hanyu , Chen Yun , Xing Bengang
Published: February 2025

Precise modulation of dynamic and complex tumor microenvironment (TME) to disrupt tumorigenesis and reshape intratumoral immune infiltration has emerged as promising approaches for enhanced cancer therapy. Among recent innovations, proteolysis‐targeting chimeras (PROTACs) represent a burgeoning chemical knockdown technology capable of degrading oncogenic protein homeostasis and inducing dynamic alternations within carcinoma settings, offering potential for antitumor manipulation. However, achieving selectivity in PROTACs that respond to disease environmental stimulation and precisely perturb on‐target proteins remains challenging. The multi‐step synthesis and limited permeability, attributed to high‐molecular‐weight and heterobifunctional structures, further hinder their in vivo efficacy. Herein, we present a unique TME‐responsive enzyme‐activated clickable PROTACs, which features a short peptide‐tagged pomalidomide derivative to undergo tumor‐specific cleavage by cathepsin protease to induce orthogonal crosslinking of the exposed cysteine with 2‐cyanobenzothiazole‐labeled epigenetic protein‐ligand JQ1, facilitating in situ degrader formation within tumor regions only. Systematic protein profiling and proteomic analysis revealed that such TME‐specific clickable‐PROTACs not only selectively eliminate epigenetic proteins without tedious pre‐synthesis to bridge disparate small‐molecule bi‐warhead fragments, but also demonstrated superior tumor penetration compared to conventional high‐molecular‐weight PROTACs. Importantly, these clickable‐PROTACs efficiently downregulated immune checkpoint programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD−L1) both in vitro and in vivo, remodeling TME for enhanced therapeutics, especially in anti‐tumoral immunomodulation.
Quasi‐solid Fiber‐shaped Lithium‐ion Batteries with Fire Resistance
Authors: Cheng Xiangran , Lu Chenhao , Gong Xiaocheng , Li Chuanfa , Wang Jifeng , Qu Jiahe , Zhang Yunting , Song Tianbing , Zhang Yanan , Jiang Haibo , Wang Chuang , Long Yao , Cao Yuanhong , Wang Ying , Li Wei , Peng Huisheng , Wang Bingjie
Published: February 2025

Flexible batteries such as scalable fiber‐shaped lithium‐ion batteries (FLIBs) hold great potential for powering wearable electronics due to their excellent electrochemical performance, flexibility, and weavability. However, the use of organic liquid electrolytes raises serious safety concerns, including leakage and combustion hazards. In this study, we develop fire‐resistant lithium cobalt oxide/graphite FLIBs by employing an in situ polymerized gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) incorporating 1,3,3,5,5‐pentafluoro‐1‐ethoxy‐cyclotriphosphazene (PFPN) as a flame retardant and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) as a crosslinker. This in situ polymerization of GPE is well‐suited for continuous FLIB production and enhances the electrolyte/electrode interface. The resulting GPE eliminates the inherent flammability of liquid electrolytes with zero self‐extinguishing time, attributed to a dual flame‐retardant mechanism: gas‐phase free radical scavenging and condensed‐phase carbon formation. Notably, the FLIBs using the flame‐retardant GPEs demonstrate no thermal runaway and maintain nonflammability under various abusive conditions, including mechanical abuse (cutting or collision), electrical abuse (overcharging or overdischarging), and thermal abuse (overheating or fire hazards). Additionally, these FLIBs achieve excellent cycling stability over 500 cycles, and retain 99.4 % of capacity after 10,000 bending cycles, highlighting their outstanding durability. This work presents an effective and straightforward approach to greatly enhance the safety and practicality of FLIBs for wearable applications.
Ether‐Embedded Covalent Organic Frameworks Enable Efficient Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Zhou Desen , Chen Qi , Zhang Jun , Wang Tielin , Liu Zhao‐Qing
Published: February 2025

The photocatalytic conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable solar fuels is a promising strategy for addressing energy crises and mitigating the greenhouse effect. However, the challenge of efficiently regulating photogenerated electrons to CO2 active sites remains a key hurdle for high‐performance CO2 reduction. Herein, an embedded functional group, ether group is introduced into porphyrin‐triazine COFs to regulate the transfer behavior of photogenerated electrons. The ether‐embedded COFs (TOT‐TAPP, BOD‐TAPP and QOB‐TAPP) demonstrate significantly faster charge transport and higher photoactivity compared with the corresponding non‐ether‐embedded counterpart COFs. The theoretical calculations and in situ characterizations reveal that the ether group could not only accelerate the separation of photogenerated charge carriers, but also lead to a more substantial accumulation of electrons at the CO2 adsorption region (C=N imine bond), thus greatly promoting the efficiency of CO2 photoreduction.
Chiral Communication between Enantiomeric Sergeants and Achiral Soldiers in Racemic Triblock Copolymers with Heterochiral Cores for Triggering Multiple Helicity Inversions
Authors: He Zixiang , Ma Haotian , Tang Zeyu , Cheng Xiaoxiao , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2025

Amplification of asymmetry in complex supramolecular/polymer system results from the delicate interplay of chiral and achiral structures. Here, a novel approach to the racemic sergeants and soldiers (S&S) effect, using enantiomeric sergeants (Sgt.) and achiral soldiers (Sold.), achieves unique precise control over both intensity and sign of global chirality. Chiroptical assemblies of different dimensions in racemic S&S copolymers can be constructed in situ via polymerization‐induced chiral self‐assembly (PICSA). We systemically investigated chiral communication pathways between chiral‐chiral, chiral‐achiral, and two oppositely configured azobenzene (Azo) segments, which robustly affect the global chiroptical activity of the racemic S&S assemblies. Chain length‐, Sgt./Sold. ratios‐, and temperature‐dependent CD/UV/Vis, small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarized optical microscopy (POM) results provided insights into the kinetics for chiroptical inversions. LC phase transitions, the helical preferences of the Sgt. and Sold. units, and the stability of the “chiral core” allow racemic S&S copolymer assemblies to exhibit chiral conflict between heterochiral blocks in an enantioselective fashion.
Elucidating the Biosynthesis and Function of an Autoinducing Peptide in Clostridium acetobutylicum
Authors: Zhu Chao , Wang Zixuan , Zhou Xiaoyu , Wu Youduo , Kang Wei , Wu Ren'an , Xue Chuang
Published: February 2025

Clostridia produce autoinducing peptides (AIPs) regulated by the accessory gene regulator (Agr) quorum sensing system, playing a critical role in intercellular communication. However, the biosynthetic pathway and regulatory functions of clostridial AIPs remain inadequately characterized. In this study, we employed chemical quantification, genetic investigations, and in vitro reconstitution experiments to elucidate the native Ca‐AIP in Clostridium acetobutylicum, a prominent industrial producer of acetone, butanol, and ethanol. Our findings identified a signal peptidase (Cac1760) and two CAAX metalloproteases (Cac0077 and Cac2478) as key players in N‐terminal cleavage, while AgrB was found to be essential for C‐terminal processing during Ca‐AIP biosynthesis. Notably, overexpression of agrBD led to a 4.4‐fold enhancement in Ca‐AIP formation, which corresponded with an increase in butanol production from 12.5 to 14.9 g/L, while preserving vegetative cell morphology. The direct involvement of Ca‐AIP in both butanol production and maintenance of cell morphology was further validated through exogenous supplementation. Collectively, these results provide novel insights into the biosynthesis of AIPs and propose a promising strategy for optimizing microbial processes in industrial applications.
Linkage Microenvironment and Oxygen Electroreduction Reaction Performance Correlationship of Iron Phthalocyanine‐based Polymers
Authors: Huang Mingtao , Gu Qiao , Wu Yonggan , Wei Yuanhao , Pei Yangfan , Hu Ting , Lützenkirchen‐Hecht Dirk , Yuan Kai , Chen Yiwang
Published: February 2025

Iron phthalocyanine‐based conjugated polymers (PFePc) offer well‐defined sites, rendering them ideal model systems to elucidate structure–property relationships towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), but have struggled to achieve improved catalytic activity due to uniform electron distribution of iron center and difficulty in molecular‐level structure design. Although rationally linkage microenvironmental regulation is an effective approach to adjusting activity, the underlying fundamental mechanism is incompletely understood. Herein, systematic DFT calculations and experimental investigation of PFePc analogous reveal that the incorporation of the electron‐withdrawing benzophenone linkage into the PFePc backbone (PFePc‐3) drives the delocalization of Fe d‐orbital electrons, downshifts the d‐band energy level, thereby tailoring the key OH* intermediate interaction, demonstrating enhanced ORR performance with a half‐wave potential of 0.91 V, a high mass activity of 21.43 A g−1, and a high turnover frequency of 2.18 e s−1 site−1. Magnetic susceptibility measurements and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy reveal that linkage regulation can induce a 3d electron with high spin‐state (t2g3eg2) of PFePc‐3, significantly accelerating the ORR kinetics. In situ scanning electrochemical microscopy and variable‐frequency square wave voltammetry further highlight the rapid kinetics of PFePc‐3 to the high accessible site density (6.14×1019 site g−1) and fast electron outbound propagation mechanism.
Chemoselective Functionalization of Tertiary C‐H Bonds of Allylic Ethers: Enantioconvergent Access to sec,tert‐Vicinal Diols
Authors: Shi Lei , Chen Yuqing , Wang Xin , Shan Jing-Ran , Wu Zhixian , Cao Renxu , Liu Yonghong , Jin Yunhe , Hao Erjun , Houk K. N.
Published: February 2025

While enantioenriched alcohols are highly significant in medicinal chemistry, total synthesis, and materials science, the stereoselective synthesis of tertiary alcohols with two adjacent stereocenters remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we present a dual catalysis approach utilizing photoredox and nickel catalysts to enable the unprecedented chemoselective functionalization of tertiary allylic C‐H bonds in allyl ethers instead of cleaving the C‐O bond. The resulting allyl‐Ni intermediates can undergo coupling with various aldehydes, facilitating a novel enantioconvergent approach to access extensively functionalized homoallylic sec,tert‐vicinal diols frameworks. This protocol exhibits nice tolerance towards functional groups, a broad scope of substrates, excellent diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity (up to 20:1 dr, 99% ee). Mechanistic studies suggested that allyl‐NiII acts as the nucleophilic species in the coupling reaction with carbonyls.
Broadband‐Light‐Induced [2+2] Cycloaddition and Thermoinduced Cycloreversion‐Powered Dynamic Molecular Crystals
Authors: Zhong Jiangbin , Sun Jingbo , Chen Chao , Yang Xiqiao , Ye Kaiqi , Li Liang , Naumov Panče , Lu Ran
Published: February 2025

Photomechanically responsive dynamic molecular crystals are central to developing efficient, rapid, and robust materials capable of conversion of light energy to mechanical work. However, unlike some other, mainly photochromic molecular solar thermal energy storage (MOST) systems, solids that undergo photoinduced [2+2] cycloaddition have not been thoroughly explored for powering reversible actuation, despite that this reaction system carries potential in the heavily strained bonds of the cyclobutane ring. In this study, we propose that broadband‐light‐induced [2+2] cycloaddition can be used to store energy and actuate dynamic organic crystals by irradiation with visible light. The prototypical material, pyrenylvinylpyrylium tetrafluoroborate (1–PVPyL), undergoes a topochemical [2+2] cycloaddition induced not only by ultraviolet radiation (365 nm) but also by monochromatic green light (532 nm), red light (620 nm) and broadband visible light in a single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal (SCSC) manner, causing its crystals to bend. The crystals effectively act as energy depots, where the reverse deformation can be initiated by heating and the stored energy is released via thermal cycloreversion reaction. Given the ubiquity of the [2+2] cycloaddition in the solid state, the current study invites the development of new dimeric MOST architectures that utilize sunlight for energy storage and thermal triggers for energy release. Within a broader scope, this approach provides a platform for fabrication of visible‐light‐driven crystal actuators capable of harnessing sunlight.
The Newly Formed Ribb Reservoir Could Serve as a Refugia for Conserving Ethiopia's Globally Unique Labeobarbus Species Flock
Authors: Getahun Abebe , Mingist Minwyelet , Hailu Biniam , Mequanent Dagnew , Cooperman Michael S.
Published: February 2025

The 17 species of Labeobarbus found in Lake Tana constitute the only extant cyprinid species flock in the world but extensive water development projects are impacting their habitats. Here, we assess if the Labeobarbus spp. are established above the Ribb Dam, constructed in 2017, and if so, the condition of the individuals and if there is evidence of local recruitment. Fish samplings were conducted once a month during the Labeobarbus species' spawning season of July to the end of September 2022, using monofilament and multifilament gillnets at three locations upstream of the Ribb Dam. We collected 10 Labeobarbus spp., with L. intermedius (40.7%) being the most abundant followed by L. brevicephalus (23.0%) and L. nedgia (22.2%). Labeobarbus fork lengths ranged from 7.8 to 43.0 cm and there were no notable gaps across the size ranges. Fulton's condition factors for species where n ≥ 20 were 1.30–1.54 (good), like Lake Tana populations. Our collection included sexually immature and first‐time maturing individuals, indicating Labeobarbus are reproducing and recruiting successfully in the watershed above the dam. Our results suggest that the Ribb River watershed above Ribb Dam may serve as a refugia for at least some of the 17 species of the species flock. However, challenges remain before the upper watershed should be viewed as a viable long‐term habitat for Labeobarbus, including the need for a fisheries management program, pollution control and mitigation of catchment degradation in the uplands that is leading to the rapid infilling of the reservoir, where current estimates suggest a 30‐year reservoir life span.
Omics Data Integration of Rhynchophorus Ferrugineus Reveals High‐Potential Targeted Pathways for the Development of Pest Control Management
Authors: Seman‐Kamarulzaman Ahmad‐Faris , Muhammad Nor Azlan Nor , Othman Nurul Wahida , Jalinas Johari , Hassan Nurul Izzaty , Rahmat Nur Lina , Hassan Maizom
Published: February 2025

Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier, 1790) (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae), commonly known as the red palm weevil (RPW), is a globally significant pest that threatens economically important palm trees. Its cryptic infestation behavior leads to irreversible damage and eventual host plant death. Current control methods using broad‐spectrum insecticides are largely ineffective due to resistance development and their adverse effects on nontarget organisms, necessitating novel strategies. This study integrates proteomics and transcriptomics data to explore the molecular landscape of RPW and identify pathways for targeted pest management. A total of 16,954 transcripts and 983 proteins were identified across three developmental stages (larvae, male adults, and female adults), with a notable decline in protein numbers from larvae to adult. Differential expression analysis revealed 7540 proteins varying significantly between developmental stages. Through subtractive analysis, 218 proteins meeting stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria were identified. These proteins underwent pathway enrichment analysis, mapping to 39 enriched pathways (p‐value and an FDR of < 0.01). Among these, two pathways involving three key enzymes were highlighted as high‐potential targets for developing insect‐specific insecticides and diet‐specific control strategies. This is the first comprehensive proteomics study analyzing the whole body of RPW across its developmental stages. The findings emphasize critical pathways, their enzyme components, and the regulation of these enzymes, offering novel insights for sustainable and targeted pest management solutions.
Legal and ethical considerations around the use of existing illustrations to generate new illustrations in the anatomical sciences
Authors: Cornwall Jon , White Richard , Pennefather Patrick , Hildebrandt Sabine , Gregory Jill , Smith Heather F. , Organ Jason , Krebs Claudia
Published: February 2025

It is likely existing anatomical illustrations are often used as the basis for new illustrative works, given not all illustrators have access to human tissues, bodies, or prosections on which to base their illustrations. Potential issues arise with this practice in the realms of copyright infringement and plagiarism when authors are seeking to publish, a matter becoming more prevalent with the proliferation in publishing platforms and the increased adoption of generative artificial intelligence applications within academia. However, there is little published guidance that might inform authors when using an existing illustration as the basis for new work. This article provides information pertaining to copyright, copyright infringement, fair use and fair dealings, plagiarism, and the overlap of copyright and plagiarism to highlight issues of law and ethics that are relevant to the creation of illustrations. Interestingly, the determination of exactly what constitutes an “original” illustration per construction from a secondary source has not been determined in case law for anatomy illustrations. This fact illuminates the absence of a “bright‐line” test for illustration reproduction and the difficulties in the objective assessment of what constitutes a “nonoriginal” illustration. The term “substantively different” is useful for determining whether illustrations derived from secondary sources can be deemed original. This article delivers guidance on how to develop illustrations with reference to determining whether copyright has been breached or plagiarism has occurred. It also provides information that will direct decision‐making around illustrative content.
Modelling Task Durations Towards Automated, Big Data, Process Mining
Authors: Faddy Malcolm , Yang Lingkai , McClean Sally , Donnelly Mark , Khan Kashaf , Burke Kevin
Published: February 2025

Business processes are generally time‐sensitive, impacting factors such as customer expectations, cost efficiencies, compliance requirements, supply chain constraints, and timely decision‐making. Time analysis is therefore crucial for customer understanding and process congestion minimisation. Existing process mining methods mainly employ basic statistics, process discovery and data mining techniques. These approaches often lack a structured model or profile to characterise the data related to the duration of individual process tasks. Consequently, it can be difficult to comprehensively understand critical observations such as trends, peaks, and valleys of task durations. This paper proposes a parsimonious generic representation of task duration data that addresses these limitations. A mixture model comprising gamma, uniform and exponential distributions is proposed that allows for peaked components corresponding to durations terminating near a particular value (the peak) with, in addition, flatter components for durations terminating more randomly between the peaks. The modelling is validated using examples from patient billing and the telecom industry. In each scenario, the corresponding fitted models offer a good representation of the underlying process tasks. The model can therefore be used to improve knowledge of these tasks in terms of the mixture components and what they might represent, such as the root causes of task termination. The paper also considers information criteria more appropriate for large data sets where very small effects can appear “significant” using techniques developed for smaller data sets.
Bolstering the Rate Performance of Co‐Free Ni‐Rich Layered Oxide Cathode through a Rapid Heating Method
Authors: Mitra Soumyadip , Rathnayaka Mudiyanselage Thilini , Wang Xijue , Lohar Gaurav , Dubal Deepak , Sudakar Chandran
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for high‐energy density Ni‐rich cathode materials, driven by the rise in lithium‐ion batteries for electric vehicles and electronics necessitates fast, efficient production methods. Traditional methods for Ni‐rich cathodes are energy‐intensive, taking up to 24 hours, which increases costs and CO2 emissions. In contrast, this study introduces a Co‐free Ni‐rich layered oxide cathode (LiNi0.9Fe0.05Al0.05O2 (NFA)) synthesis using a rapid microwave heating technique. This method takes just 2.5 hours, including heating and dwell time, while consuming minimal electricity. The microwave‐annealed cathodes exhibits a well‐ordered layered structure with fewer defects compared to those produced by traditional calcination (21 h). Furthermore, these cathodes display superior discharge capacities across all C‐rates (e. g. 157 mAh g−1 at 1 C‐rate and 129 mAh g−1 at 10 C‐rate) and retain 78.1 % specific capacity after 100 cycles at high current density (1 C‐rate). This study paves the way for the rapid, energy‐efficient synthesis of high‐performance cathode materials for advanced lithium‐ion batteries.
Spectacular Application of Isoindole‐Based Fluorophore for Mirabegron Assay in Tablets and Biological Fluids (Urine/Plasma). Assessment of Method Blueness and Whiteness
Authors: Abu‐hassan Ahmed A. , Mahdi Wael A. , Alshehri Sultan , Alsehli Bandar R. , Saleh Safaa F. , El Hamd Mohamed A.
Published: February 2025

The FDA has approved mirabegron (MBG) for alleviating urgency in micturition and incontinence. Its mechanism of action involves the activation of β3‐adrenoreceptors. The present research outlines a novel, highly sensitive, and cost‐effective protocol for analyzing MBG. The current research relies on MBG interaction with o‐phthalaldehyde alongside 2‐mercaptoethanol. The resulting isoindole fluorophore was quantified at λex 337.7 and λem 433.7 nm. A comprehensive analysis was conducted to systematically examine and enhance the several experimental factors that impact the creation of the isoindole‐based fluorophore outcome. A linear correlation was established by precisely manipulating these variables, demonstrating that the increase in fluorescence strength is directly correlated to the quantity of MBG within the range of 30 to 1000 ng/mL. The analytical method was able to reliably detect MBG concentrations as low as 9 ng/mL and accurately quantify levels down to 27.5 ng/mL. This analytical procedure was effectively employed to determine the concentration of MBG in commercially available tablet formulations, as well as in plasma/urine samples. Furthermore, the strategy was extended to assess the content uniformity of MBG‐containing products, providing results with satisfactory accuracy and precision. Importantly, this approach is cost‐effective, environmentally friendly, and can be readily implemented for quality control and routine monitoring of MBG in pharmaceutical products. The suggested approach was evaluated utilizing the RGB12 and BAGI tools. The outcomes abundantly show the practicability and integrity of the planned strategy.
California's wildfires provide reminder to practice fire safety always
Authors: Miles David
Published: February 2025

I was starting to write this article as the news was flooded with stories about the wildfires burning in California.
Chemical Constituents From Trichilia connaroides and Their Anti‐Tobacco Mosaic Virus Properties
Authors: Li Qin‐Dan , Feng En‐Ming , Wang Dan , Liang Hong , Chen Lu , Tang Lei , Di Ying‐Tong , Zou Jie , Qin Xu‐Jie , Yan Ying
Published: February 2025

Further phytochemical investigation on the twigs of Trichilia connaroides led to the isolation of nine limonoids (1, 2, and 5–11), one 3,4‐seco‐homo‐cycloartane (3), and two steroids (4 and 12). The structures of these obtained isolates were established by means of detailed analyses of their extensive spectroscopic information and electronic circular dichroism calculations, four of them were elucidated as undescribed compounds (1–4). It is noted that an unprecedented 7‐oxabicyclo[2.2.1]‐heptane moiety in trichilitin M (1) was proposed by the linkage of C‐11 and C‐14 via an oxygen atom. All compounds were evaluated for their anti‐tobacco mosaic virus (anti‐TMV) activities by the conventional half‐leaf method and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) assays. Compared with the positive control ningnanmycin, compounds 1, 6, 7, and 11 showed significant anti‐TMV biological activities. Furthermore, quantitative RT‐PCR assays suggested that the expression level of the TMV coat protein (CP) gene in inoculated and systemic K326 leaves treated by both 1 and 6, was significantly lower than that for the control group. More importantly, compounds 1 and 6 could not only inhibit the accumulation of the TMV CP gene but also enhance the host plant's resistance to TMV infection.
Flavonoids in combating renal fibrosis: Targeting NF‐κB signal and in silico support
Authors: Amin Haitham , S. Althagafy Hanan , S. Abd El-Maksoud Mostafa , M. Ibrahim Islam , H. M. Hassanein Emad
Published: February 2025

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an overriding concern for many researchers, as it causes unspeakable suffering among patients. Renal fibrosis is the hallmark of end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD), which can progress to death. The super‐fuels for renal fibrosis are oxidative stress and inflammation. It occurs in all CKD patients, but how it develops is still ambiguous. Flavonoids demonstrate tremendous fighting power against inflammation and oxidative stress in many diseases. NF‐κB suppression has been deeply investigated in renal fibrosis, with phenomenally good outcomes. This review shed light on flavonoids’ ability to beat renal fibrosis associated with NF‐κB activation. Flavonoids exhibit a promising antifibrotic effects through targeting NF‐κB such as Apigenin, Baicalin, Diosmin, Epigallocatechin 3‐Gallate, Genistein, Isoliquiritigenin, Naringin, Puerarin, Quercetin, Silibinin, Wogonin, Biochanin A, and Cardamonin. Moreover, in silico studies showed that flavonoids displayed an outstanding inhibitory effect on NF‐κB based on the energy of binding. They are well‐fitted to the binding pocket of the target protein by forming hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic and ionic interactions with the key amino acid residues. The outcomes revealed that silibinin, baicalin, and baicalein are the most powerful NF‐κB inhibitors. In conclusion, through suppressing NF‐κB signal, flavonoids display a dynamite performance in combating CKD and renal fibrosis.
Cryptotanshinone Inhibits Obesity‐Related Cervical Cancer by Downregulating CXCL8 Expression in Hela Cells
Authors: Pan Xinyu , Ren Ziqi , Gong Ping , Sun Xiaodan , Wang Le , He Yin , Liu Dan , Cao Xiangyu
Published: February 2025

Cervical cancer is one of the cancers commonly found in the female reproductive system and is associated with obesity. However, the exact connection mechanisms remain unclear. Screening of key therapeutic targets and natural products with good antitumor activity has become a crucial strategy for cancer therapy. Cryptotanshinone is one of the main extracts of tanshinone, which has anti‐inflammatory and anti‐cancer properties. Key therapeutic targets and related low‐toxicity natural active ingredients were identified as crucial components in cancer treatment strategies. Therefore, network pharmacology and cellular biology techniques were used to screen and validate key targets in obesity‐related cervical cancer and to elucidate the mechanisms of its cryptotanshinone. The results indicated that C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) might be modulated by cryptotanshinone. The knockdown of CXCL8 significantly reduced Hela cell viability to 15.29% ± 4.59% compared with the control group (p < 0.01), which consequently inhibited both cell proliferation and lipid droplet formation. Moreover, cryptotanshinone (20, 40, and 80 µM) significantly reduced CXCL8 expression and inhibited the NOD‐like receptor signaling pathway in Hela cells compared with the control group (p < 0.01). Therefore, this study manifested that cryptotanshinone potentially played an important role in obesity‐related cervical cancer. This study provided an important experimental basis for further exploring the pathogenesis and prevention of obesity‐related cervical cancer.
Systemic Change at Community Colleges: Highlighting Leader Moves of Transformation
Authors: González Ángel de Jesus , Holcombe Elizabeth , Kezar Adrianna
Published: February 2025

Community colleges are positioned in an ecosystem of complex organizational conditions and have a multitude of external factors influencing their context. This context demands systemic change work that is complex, which requires community college leaders to be adaptable to their organizational landscape. In this article, we provide key insights from the change leadership toolkit (CLT). Starting with an overview of the ecosystem model of systemic change leadership. First, we provide a breakdown of its components which include leadership context, leader moves, and levers for change. Next, we provide a set of case study examples that help operationalize the model in practice with a focus on the main parts of the model. We conclude with some brief recommendations for change agents to consider when embarking on systemic change efforts.
Wunderlich Syndrome Caused by Spontaneous Rupture of Renal Angiomyolipoma in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: Endovascular Management With Fetal Preservation—A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Al‐falahi Abdulqader , Al‐Sayyadi Maeen , Al‐Ozair Bassam , Alwah Ali , Ahmed Faisal
Published: February 2025

Renal angiomyolipoma (AML) are benign tumors incidentally diagnosed during routine radiologic images; nonetheless, AML rupture is uncommon and has been associated with fatal consequences, demanding prompt intervention, especially during pregnancy with symptoms of Wunderlich's syndrome (WS) and atrophied contralateral kidney. We report a 30‐year‐old pregnant woman who presented with gross hematuria and hypovolemic shock in her seventh month of pregnancy. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 15 × 13.5 × 16 cm AML mass in the left kidney, a 5 × 6 cm intrarenal pseudoaneurysm, and a massive retroperitoneal hematoma with an atrophied contralateral right kidney. After achieving hemodynamic stability, selective renal arterial embolization was performed with a successful outcome. She subsequently delivered her baby via cesarean section without complications. In conclusion, although WS due to AML rupture is rare during pregnancy, accurate diagnosis and prompt endovascular treatment should be pursued in cases involving a solitary kidney and associated comorbid conditions to safeguard the lives of both the patient and the baby, stabilize renal function, and prevent catastrophic complications.
Trichobezoar as an Unusual Cause for Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Almouallem Mohamad Moamen , Hanna Majd , Martini Nafiza , Alfarouh Ahmad , Mousseli Rand , Yaldany Maysam , Mahmod Jaber
Published: February 2025

Trichobezoars are conglomerations of undigested foreign materials within the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). They are most commonly observed in young girls. Trichobezoars typically lodge in the stomach, but can extend further into the intestines in a condition called Rapunzel syndrome. The current patient, a young girl, complained of abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea. She also had a history of bile vomiting 1 month prior and an abnormal craving for mud (PICA). Trichobezoars are often linked to hair‐pulling disorders or other mental health conditions, and symptoms can be vague for years before progressing to nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and even iron deficiency anemia. Treatment involves removing the hairball and addressing any underlying psychological issues. In the current case, we aimed to elucidate the diagnosis, management, and unique features of gastrointestinal tract trichobezoars, which are uncommon causes of gastrointestinal distress and iron deficiency anemia (IDA).
Spinal Cord Subacute Combined Degeneration Mimicked by Copper Deficiency: A Case Report
Authors: Ayalew Zekarias Seifu , Netsere Mehariw Wondimu , Abebe Matyas Adugna , Maru Surafel Tilahun , Azibte Gebeyehu Tessema , Biza Aynalem Demsis , Mossie Getnet Yigzaw
Published: February 2025

This case report underscores the diagnostic challenge of copper‐deficiency myelopathy (CDM) and subacute combined degeneration (SCD) due to their similar clinical presentations. A 32‐year‐old male farmer initially treated for SCD with normal vitamin B12 levels showed no improvement, leading to a delayed diagnosis of CDM. His symptoms included sensory ataxia, spasticity, and sensory loss in the lower extremities, which resolved with oral copper supplementation. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for CDM, especially in patients who are unresponsive to B12 therapy. This case also highlights that marginal copper deficiency can cause significant neurological symptoms and that early intervention with copper supplementation can lead to full recovery, preventing irreversible damage. It also emphasizes the need for comprehensive testing, including copper levels, in cases of atypical myelopathy to avoid a delayed diagnosis.
What if I fail? Examining the association between avoidance motivation and research career intentions
Authors: Deemer Eric D. , Li Heming , Mathis Diana L. , Barr Amy C.
Published: February 2025

This study investigated how avoidance motivation, which entails a fear of failure and focus on avoiding negative outcomes, influences adolescents’ aspirations toward scientific research careers. Participants consisted of 245 high school students participating in a summer science enrichment program. Results of a hierarchical regression analysis indicated that failure avoidance relative to the conduct of scientific tasks was a significant negative predictor of research career intentions after controlling for academic ability, cognitive capacity to regulate general interest, and online versus in‐person programming implemented before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Results of post hoc probing also revealed a significant interaction between failure avoidance and inconsistency of interest whereby participants with low inconsistency of interest and high failure avoidance reported the lowest level of research career intentions. Our findings aim to inform strategies to support sustained engagement and motivation among prospective science undergraduates, contributing to the broader discourse on science career development.
The Influence of Ionic Liquid Modification on the Restructuring of Trimetallic PtNiMo/C Catalysts During Conditioning
Authors: Danisman Bilal , Yang Juntao , Zhang Gui‐Rong , Brummel Olaf , Márton Kovács Miklós , Dworschak Dominik , Steffen Julien , Ledendecker Marc , Görling Andreas , Mayrhofer Karl J. J. , Libuda Jörg , Etzold Bastian J. M.
Published: February 2025

During preconditioning of PtNiMo/C catalyst metal dissolution and redeposition takes place. At slow scan rates this leads to increased steady activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Furthermore, ionic liquids (IL) influence the activity of Pt‐based catalysts and can alter the leaching of Pt‐alloy catalysts. This study investigates the influence of ILs on the preconditioning of PtNiMo/C catalysts. Therefore, preconditioning parameters as well as the IL employed were varied. ILs with long side chains like [C8fC1][BETI] resulted in a spreading of the activity development during preconditioning over a longer cycle time and with damped amplitude for the activity changes. For shorter side chains like [BMIM][BETI] the development is like the pristine catalyst. Ex‐situ and in‐situ characterization revealed that [BMIM][BETI] leached fast to the electrolyte, which was not observed for the other ILs. Nevertheless, for all ILs a strongly reduced platinum leaching was observed. Even for the leached [BMIM][BETI] a stable wetting layer influencing the leaching seems to remain. Nevertheless, only for the other ILs where an immobilized bulk phase is remaining a difference in catalyst restructuring during the preconditioning is observed and a higher number of small sized Pt clusters and a lower amount of bigger Pt clusters resulted.
Generalization challenges and strategies in tunnel boring machine performance prediction
Authors: Huang Shengfeng , Korfiatis George , Sousa Rita
Published: February 2025

Achieving robust generalization in machine learning for tunnel boring machine performance prediction is challenging, particularly when models are developed on data from different projects. This study assesses the generalization abilities of K‐nearest neighbors, support vector regression, artificial neural networks, random forest, classification and regression trees, and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) for predicting penetration rate (PR) and explores the potential of incremental learning to enhance it. The datasets were collected from two tunnels (Line C and Line S) that were constructed in similar geological formation, with similar technology, in Porto, Portugal. In the first part, these models are trained using Line C data and applied to Line S for generalization assess under different splitting and scaling methods. XGBoost demonstrated superior performance in both accuracy and generalization, making it the base model for incremental learning. In the second part, the incremental learning, applied by continually updating the XGBoost model when new data becomes available, was evaluated across different PR ranges and different incremental sizes. Finally, the model trained using Line C data plus Line S data was compared to the model using Line S only to investigate the impact of including Line C data on generalization. Our findings show that for the imbalanced data of PR <125 mm/rpm, incremental learning show unstable generalization but exhibited improved generalization on PR < 25 mm/rpm. For the balanced data of PR <25 mm/rpm, incremental learning showed more stable and gradually improved generalization. Combining Line C data with Line S data for training improved generalization significantly. The study results provide important insights into developing generalization strategies, highlighting the benefits of pre‐training with similar data and the challenges of dealing with imbalanced data in real‐life projects.
Voltammetric Sensor for Naproxen Enantiomers Based on a Paste Electrode Modified With a Chiral Nickel(II) Complex
Authors: Zilberg Rufina A. , Teres Julia B. , Vakulin Ivan V. , Bulysheva Elena O. , Mukhametdinov Genghiskhan R. , Sycheva Maria A. , Volkova Anastasia А. , Titov Aleksei A. , Maleev Victor I. , Larionov Vladimir A.
Published: February 2025

An enantioselective voltammetric sensor (EVS) comprising a paste electrode made of graphitized thermal Carboblack C (CBPE) modified with a Ni(II) complex based on (S)‐(2‐aminomethyl)pyrrolidine and 3,5‐di‐tert‐butylsalicylaldehyde was developed for the recognition and determination of naproxen (Nap) enantiomers. The proposed sensor was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS‐SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), molecular dynamics and quantum chemical simulations, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV) methods. Using the differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), the CBPE@(S)‐Ni sensor was found to have good selectivity for Nap enantiomers (ip1S/ip1R = 1.43, ip2S/ip2R = 1.27 for the first/second peaks, respectively). The sensor demonstrates the highest sensitivity to (S)‐Nap (6.44 and 6.90 μA/mM for the first and second peaks). The linear concentration range is from 5.0 × 10−5 to 1 × 10−3 M and from 2.0 × 10−4 to 1 × 10−3 M for (S)‐ and (R)‐Nap, respectively, where the detection limits for the first and second peaks are 5.31 × 10−7 M and 4.96 × 10−7 M for (S)‐Nap and 7.40 × 10−7 and 6.79 × 10−7 for (R)‐Nap. The suggested sensor was successfully tested for the determination of Nap enantiomers in mixtures, in biological fluids, and in medicinal drug forms. In all the cases, the relative standard deviation (RSD) does not exceed 4.7%; the recovery percentage is in the range of 99.2%–101.3%.