bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrafast Synthesis of Nanoscale Metal Borides for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Liu Tingting , Chen Chen , Pu Zonghua , Huang Qiufeng , Jiang Jiadong , Han Min , Chen Wei , Yu Guangtao , Sun Yuzhi , Huang Shengyun , Chen Qingjun , Al‐Enizi Abdullah M. , Nafady Ayman , Mu Xueqin , Mu Shichun
Published: January 2025

Nanoscale metal borides, with exceptional physicochemical properties, have been attracted widespread attention. However, traditional synthesis methods of metal borides often lead to surface coking and large particle sizes. Herein, we have employed a flash Joule heating (FJH) technique to enable the ultrafast synthesis of metal boride nanomaterials. The synthesized materials encompass a wide range of diverse categories, including alkaline‐earth metal borides (CaB6), transition metal borides (TiB2, VB2, CrB2, MoB, MoB2, MnB2, MnB4, FeB, CoB, NiB), noble‐metal borides (RuB2, RuB1.1), and rare‐earth metal borides (LaB6, CeB6). As an example, the RuB2 demonstrates highly desirable electrocatalytic performance for all‐pH hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Especially, under the acidic condition, it exhibits an overpotential as low as 15 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, with a nearly 100 % faradic efficiency. Additionally, in situ Raman spectra confirm that both Ru and B sites serve as active sites for the HER. Moreover, the stability of RuB2 can be further enhanced by optimizing the microenvironments of the anolyte composition (H+, K+). More importantly, the experimental and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the co‐existence of H+ and K+ localized around the RuB2 plays a crucial role in further enhancing the stability.
Semirational Protein Engineering of a Decarboxylative Aldolase for the Regiodivergent and Stereodivergent Synthesis of Cyclic Imino Acids
Authors: Lan Yuqiu , Zhang Chenghua , Tang Chunping , Ye Yang , Zhang Rui , Sheng Xiang , Liao Cangsong
Published: January 2025

Aldolases are powerful C−C bond‐forming enzymes for asymmetric organic synthesis because of their supreme stereoselectivity, compatibility with diverse electrophiles and nucleophiles, and promising scalability. Stereodivergent engineering of aldolases to tune the selectivity for the synthesis of stereoisomers of chiral molecules is highly desirable but has rarely been reported. Herein we report the semirational engineering of the decarboxylative aldolase UstD with a focused rational iterative site‐specific mutagenesis (FRISM) strategy to perform a C−C bond‐forming reaction with dione electrophiles. The variant obtained from a small mutant library showed divergent regioselectivity and diastereoselectivity compared to the wild‐type enzyme, resulting in the production of 30 cyclic imino acids with stereocenters at the α and γ positions. Molecular dynamics simulation and kinetic data revealed the basis of selectivity.
Influence of Graphene, Hydroxyapatite, and Hydroxyapatite‐Niobium Pentoxide Nanoparticles on Polycaprolactone Electrospun Fibers Mats Properties
Authors: de Moraes Elisângela Guzi , Andrade Karina Luzia , Ribeiro Luiz Fernando Belchior , da Costa Laqua Letícia Alves , da Silva Daiara Floriano , Arcaro Sabrina , Hiratsuka Larissa Shinju , Tada Dayane , Faita Fabrício Luiz , de Oliveira Antonio Pedro Novaes , Machado Ricardo Antonio Francisco
Published: January 2025

Polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun fiber mats containing varying concentrations of graphene flakes (GF), hydroxyapatite (HAp), and hydroxyapatite with niobium pentoxide (HAp5Nb) were successfully prepared by electrospinning. These composites exhibit great potential in biomedical applications, particularly as scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. The addition of GF enhances the rheological properties of the PCL solution due to the intrinsic properties resulting from their interactions. Additionally, incorporating HAp and HAp5Nb nanoparticles increases the viscosity of PCL‐based solutions, leading to the formation of thinner fiber diameters. The GF, HAp, and HAp5Nb nanoparticles were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and x‐ray diffractometry (XRD), while the degree of disorder and heterogeneity of GF was assessed using Raman spectroscopy. The physical and chemical properties of the electrospun fiber mats were also characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), XRD, fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and contact angle measurements. The cytotoxicity of PCL‐based electrospun fiber mats containing GF, HAp, and HAp5Nb nanoparticles was evaluated using mouse fibroblasts. Results showed that cell viability with 100% extract from the fiber mats was higher than with pure PCL or Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium DMEM control, indicating that the samples were non‐toxic and promoted cell growth. This highlights their potential as scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.
Dually Modified Starch‐Based Coating for Improving Barrier and Mechanical Performances of Paper Toward Food Packaging
Authors: Zhang Yazeng , Zhao Wenguang , Lin Benping , Zhu Hongwei , Deng Fengwei , Chen Qijie
Published: January 2025

Paper is a promising packaging material, while raw paper always presents poor barrier and mechanical performances. Developing high‐performance coating is an effective strategy to expand its applications. In this paper, a biobased high‐performance coating was developed via dual modifications on starch. Specifically, starch was first modified using polyethylenimine (PEI), and then grafted using the hydrophobic methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS). The finally obtained dually modified starch (PM‐St) enabled paper to display favorable barrier properties, including excellent water resistance (static contact angle of ~128°) and oil‐proof performance (oil‐proof grade > 7). Furthermore, the coated paper also exhibited obviously enhanced mechanical performances, including improved tensile index of 46.88% and improved burst index of 81.69% for coated paper. In conclusion, this biobased coating has the potential for application in paper coating toward food packaging and thus reduces the use of plastic materials.
Study on the Prediction Model of Swelling Response of EPDM in Liquid Mixture by Using the Modified Flory–Huggins Interaction Parameter (χHSP)
Authors: Li Zhuozhuo , Liu Guangyong
Published: January 2025

The swelling responses of ethylene propylene diene monomers (EPDM) in cyclohexane/xylene (CYH/X) and cyclohexane/cyclohexanone (CYH/C) binary systems were studied by using equilibrium swelling method, and the co‐solvent effect was further analyzed. The results show that the swelling responses of EPDM in CYH/X and CYH/C binary systems are significantly different. EPDM exhibits more obvious co‐solvent effect in CYH/C binary system which may be generated by the self‐association of cyclohexanone. In addition, the modified Flory–Huggins interaction parameter (χHSP) calculated by three‐dimensional solubility parameters (HSP) was used to establish the prediction model from the correlation with the swelling ratio (qm) of EPDM. The prediction model can be represented by an exponential equation with high degree of fitting, and the calculated qm values from this model are comparable with the experimental values. The prediction model has been employed to evaluate the swelling responses (q‐fitting) of EPDM in IRM 903 test oil/ethanol mixtures theoretically. It reveals that lower χHSP values result in higher swelling responses of EPDM, following the same rule of q–χHSP. Potentially, the prediction model based on χHSP provides a new way to determine the swelling responses of EPDM based rubber parts in any possible fluids.
Photoinduced Azidoamination of Styrenes Using Sodium Azide and (Diphenylmethylene)amino Benziodoxolone
Authors: Kiyokawa Kensuke , Nakano Koki , Okumatsu Daichi , Minakata Satoshi
Published: January 2025

Herein, we report the radical azidoamination of styrenes via the use of a combination of sodium azide and (diphenylmethylene)amino benziodoxolone under visible‐light irradiation. This approach to unsymmetrical diamination provides a simple and practical method for constructing vicinal diamine scaffolds with two distinct and easily modifiable amino functionalities.
Rational Design of Porous Organic Framework (POF) for Efficient Conversion of CO2 to Cyclic Carbonates and 2‐Oxazolidinones at Atmospheric Pressure Conditions
Authors: Parihar Vaibhav , Kumar Bharat , Singh Gulshan , Nagaraja C. M.
Published: January 2025

Carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and its subsequent catalytic fixation into usable compounds represent a potential approach for addressing the energy problem and the implications of global warming. Hence, it is necessary to develop effective catalytic systems required for the transformation of CO2 into valuable chemicals/fuels. Herein, we rationally designed a hydroxyl‐functionalized porous organic framework (OH‐POF) consisting of both acidic (OH) as well as basic N sites for the transformation of CO2 using epoxides for the production of cyclic carbonates (CCs), a useful commodity chemical under environmental‐friendly, metal/solvent/co‐catalyst‐free conditions. Moreover, OH‐POF was post‐synthetically modified to anchor non‐noble metal, Zn(II) to generate Zn‐POF and further explored it for the efficient functionalization of CO2 with propargylic amines to generate valuable bioactive 2‐oxazolidinones. Significantly, both OH‐POF and Zn‐POF demonstrated exceptional reusability with catalytic efficacy retained across numerous cycles of use. Notably, this study showcases a green and sustainable process for utilization of CO2 under environmentally favorable ambient conditions into two highly valuable compounds, viz cyclic carbonates and 2‐oxazolidinones.
Utilization of orange peel waste for activated carbon production and its application in particleboard for formaldehyde emission reduction
Authors: Ergun Mehmet Emin , Koyuncu Filiz , Istek Abdullah , Özlüsoylu İsmail , Bülbül Şaban , Kılıç‐Pekgözlü Ayben
Published: January 2025

Activated carbon (AC) is valued for its large surface area, porosity, and chemical adsorption properties, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. Its most common sources are coconut shells, wood, and coal – all of which are costly or harmful to the environment. It is thus important to finding sustainable feedstock, such as agricultural waste. Inexpensive materials like waste orange peel have been used in the production of AC. This study explores the synthesis of AC from orange peel waste through phosphoric acid (H3PO4) activation for potential applications in reducing volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde emissions in particleboard production. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used to examine AC. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area of AC was 497 m2·g⁻¹. The addition of AC to urea‐formaldehyde (UF) adhesive enhanced cross‐linking and condensation reactions, improving the mechanical and physical properties of particleboards without compromising integrity. The effects of AC on formaldehyde emissions were assessed at 0 and 3 months. Compared to the control group, particleboards with AC showed a 28.98% reduction in free formaldehyde emissions at 0 months and a 45.25% reduction at 3 months. Activated carbon derived from orange peels can thus improve particleboard properties while reducing formaldehyde emissions in an environmentally sustainable way.
Determinants of Economic Risk Preferences Across Adolescence
Authors: Zhang Yubing , Camerer Colin F. , Tashjian Sarah M.
Published: January 2025

This study examined economic risk preferences using a multidimensional approach in adolescents and young adults (N = 444, ages 13–27). Despite the two major theoretical approaches in adolescent economic risk‐taking—socioemotional theories and fuzzy‐trace theory—comparatively little is known about the role of incidental affective factors in economic risk‐taking. We tested six demographic and psychological determinants (age, gender, positive/negative affect, state anxiety, and indecision) on two economic risk decision tasks (loss aversion and skewness). Adolescents reported higher positive affect and lower negative affect than adults, but anxiety and indecision were age‐invariant. Women showed lower positive affect and higher negative affect, state anxiety, and indecision compared to men. We found women to be more loss‐averse; all other factors were not related to loss aversion. Adolescents were equally likely to accept symmetric and skewed gambles, whereas adults had more nuanced preferences. Adolescents also demonstrated a reduced bias toward negatively skewed risks compared to young adults, but both groups showed similar preferences for positively skewed and symmetric risks. These results support fuzzy‐trace theory's prediction of age‐related shifts from verbatim to gist representations: More verbatim processing during adolescence facilitated risk‐taking in negatively skewed risks, diverging from prospect theory. Positive affect shifted risk preference for adolescents and young adults in divergent directions—adolescents favored symmetrical risks more, while adults favored negatively skewed risks more. These patterns illustrate that adolescents and young adults in positive moods demonstrate risk preferences that are rare for their developmental stage, with potentially detrimental consequences depending on the choice at hand.
A Mitochondria‐Related Signature in Diffuse Large B‐Cell Lymphoma: Prognosis, Immune and Therapeutic Features
Authors: Zhou Zhen‐Zhong , Lu Jia‐Chen , Guo Song‐Bin , Tian Xiao‐Peng , Li Hai‐Long , Zhou Hui , Huang Wei‐Juan
Published: January 2025

Background

Distinctive heterogeneity characterizes diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), one of the most frequent types of non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. Mitochondria have been demonstrated to be closely involved in tumorigenesis and progression, particularly in DLBCL.

Objective

The purposes of this study were to identify the prognostic mitochondria‐related genes (MRGs) in DLBCL, and to develop a risk model based on MRGs and machine learning algorithms.

Methods

Transcriptome profiles and clinical information were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The risk model was defined using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (Lasso) regression algorithm, and its prognostic value was further examined in independent datasets. Patients were stratified into two clusters based on the risk scores, additionally a nomogram was generated based on the risk score and clinical characteristics. Gene pathway level, microenvironment, expression of targeted therapy‐associated genes, response to immunotherapy, drug sensitivity, and somatic mutation status were compared between clusters.

Results

Eighteen prognostic MRGs (DNM1L, PUSL1, CHCHD4, COX7A1, CPT1A, CYP27A1, POLDIP2, PCK2, MRPL2, PDK3, PDK4, MARC2, ACSM3, COA7, THNSL1, ATAD3B, C15orf48, TOMM70A) were identified to construct the risk model. Remarkable discrepancies were observed between groups. The high‐risk group had shorter overall survival, less immune infiltration, lower CD20 and higher PD‐L1 expression than the low‐risk group. Distinct immune microenvironment, responses to immunotherapy and predictive drug IC50 values were found between groups.

Conclusions

We established a novel prognostic mitochondria‐related signature by machine learning algorithm, which also demonstrated outstanding predictive value in tumor microenvironment and responses to therapies.
Chloride‐Assisted Transfer Hydrogenation of Ketones by Half‐Sandwich Rhodium Iminophosphonamide Complexes
Authors: Nekrasov Roman I. , Peganova Tat'yana A. , Strelkova Tat'yana V. , Gutsul Evgenii I. , Filippov Oleg A. , Belkova Natalia V. , Kalsin Alexander M.
Published: January 2025

Half‐sandwich 18e rhodium iminophosphonamide complexes [Сp*RhCl(NPN)] with NPN═Ph2P(N‐p‐Tol)2 (1a), Ph2P(N‐p‐Tol)(NMe) (1b) and 16e cationic [Сp*Rh(NPN)](PF6) (2a+PF6−) were found to catalyze transfer hydrogenation of carbonylic substrates (acyclic and cyclic alkyl ketones, aromatic ketones, and aldehydes) with the activity strongly enhanced by the presence of chloride ligand. Kinetic studies including KIE and activation parameters measurements carried out for two model ketones (acetophenone and cyclohexanone) as well as model spectroscopic investigation accompanied with the DFT calculations allowed to propose unconventional chloride‐assisted mechanism of transfer hydrogenation to account for different behavior of 18e chloride complexes versus their less active 16e cationic counterparts. The key species initiating the catalytic cycle is the solvate complex [Cp*Rh(NPN)(iPrOH)]Cl, which does not result from direct coordination of iPrOH to 2a+PF6− rather forms via the Cl− dissociation in 1 promoted by specific interactions with alcohol, namely by H‐bonding with the Cl ligand, Cp*Rh(NPN)Cl···HOR.
Three Dimensional CNTs Interweaved Layered MnTe Nanoparticles as a New Cathode For Aqueous Zinc Ion Battery
Authors: Liu Dai‐Huo , Song Mengqin , Xu Fang , Wang Ao , Xu Chunyan , Zheng Jialin , Yun Cheng , Zhang Beinuo , Li Zhenjiang , Liu Yaozhi , Wang Pengyan , Wang Shifen , Guo Junpo
Published: January 2025

Currently, the development of suitable transition metal chalcogenides (TMDs) for aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) is plagued by the terrible conductivity and electrochemical properties. Herein, a one‐step ball milling method is applied to enhance the conductivity of commercial MnTe cathode by constructing three dimensional (3D) carbon nanotubes (CNTs) interweaved MnTe nanoparticles (abbreviated as MnTe@CNTs), which can achieve ultrafast ion conduction. The stable electrochemistry properties benefit from the synergistic effects between layered MnTe and 3D CNTs, which can improve the electrons/ions diffusion kinetics as cycling. So MnTe@CNTs achieves a ultra‐high capacity of 427.2 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and superior capacity retention of 97.6 % at 1 A g−1 over 200 cycles. Zinc‐storage mechanisms can be revealed with the aid of operando XRD and ex situ XPS spectra. MnTe as a new cathode presents superior Zn‐storage ability for high‐performance AZIBs.
Tetrylenes are Able to Discern between Isomeric Structures of Unsaturated Osmium(IV) Polyhydrides
Authors: Cabeza Javier A. , Esteruelas Miguel A. , Izquierdo Susana , Oñate Enrique
Published: January 2025

Hexahydride OsH6(PiPr3)2 (1) releases H2 to form the isomeric tetrahydrides 2 a and 2 b of general formula OsH4(PiPr3)2. Tetrylenes E{N(SiMe3)2}2 (E=Ge, Sn) are able to selectively trap these isomers distinguishing between them. Tetrylene Ge{N(SiMe3)2}2 catches 2 b to generate OsH4{Ge[N(SiMe3)2]2}(PiPr3)2 (3), which has a piano stool geometry, while Sn{N(SiMe3)2}2 captures 2 a to give OsH4{Sn[N(SiMe3)2]2}(PiPr3)2 (4) with the donor atoms defining a pentagonal bipyramid around the osmium center.
High Temperature Shock (HTS) Synthesis of Carbon‐Based Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Applications
Authors: Huang Wen , Zhu Xindong , Zhu He , Wang Zhihua , Yu Haoran , Shao Yu , Liu Qi , Lan Si
Published: January 2025

Carbon‐based nanomaterials play a significant role in the field of electrochemistry because of their outstanding electrical conductivity, chemical and thermal resistance, structural flexibility, and so on. In recent years, we have observed a rapid rise of research interest in the high‐temperature shock (HTS) method, which is fast, stable, environmentally friendly, and versatile. The HTS method offers excellent controllability and repeatability while tackling challenges and limitations of traditional preparation methods, providing a new way to prepare and optimize carbon‐based nanomaterials for electrochemical applications. During the HTS synthesis, the reaction is driven by the high temperature while further growth of obtained nanoparticles is inhibited by the rapid heating and cooling rates. The preparation of carbon‐based nanomaterials by HTS has many advantages, including controlled carbon vacancy that may drive phase transformation, precise engineering of carbon, and other defects that may function as active centers, formation and preservation of metastable phase owing to the high energy and rapid cooling, fine‐tuning of the interaction between loaded species and carbon support for optimized performance, and facile doping and compounding to induce synergy between different constituents. This article provides a comprehensive review of various carbon‐based nanomaterials prepared by the HTS method and their applications in the field of electrochemistry during the past decade, emphasizing their synthesis and principles to optimize their performance. Studies showcasing the merits of HTS‐derived carbon‐based nanomaterials in advancing Lithium‐ion batteries, Lithium‐sulfur batteries, Lithium‐air batteries, water‐splitting reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, CO2 reduction reaction, nitrate reduction reaction, other electrocatalytic reactions, and fuel cells are highlighted. Finally, the prospects of carbon‐based nanomaterials prepared by HTS method for electrochemical applications are recommended.
Diencephalic Syndrome in Adolescents: A Case Series
Authors: Kpenosen Toritseju I. , Chandler Owen N. , Otallah Scott I.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Two pediatric patients presented with unintentional weight loss despite normal caloric intake. Both patients later developed neurological symptoms, and a neoplastic lesion was detected in the hypothalamic‐optic chiasmatic region. The location of the tumor and the significant weight loss aligned with diencephalic syndrome (DES), which typically occurs in infants and young children. However, both patients were in their teens and thus greatly deviated from the normal age range of this disorder.

Methods/Results

After chart review we analyzed the patients with a focus on the similarities in their clinical course and final diagnosis. Both patients were ultimately diagnosed with DES. Managing the patients' tumors allowed them to experience significant weight gain and return to daily life activities.

Discussion

Although the exact pathogenesis for DES is not fully understood, the symptoms are associated with hypothalamic dysfunction. DES has been accepted as a disorder of the hypothalamic hunger and satiety control mechanisms. With both patients having tumors in the hypothalamic‐optic chiasmatic region, it is expected that the growing mass would compress the hypothalamus and disrupt normal hypothalamic function. Because of the hypothalamus' role in hunger and satiety control mechanisms, it is logical that these disruptions could produce abnormal weight changes.

Conclusion

DES is a rare condition and typically only presents in infants and toddlers. Thus, this syndrome occurring in teenage populations represents a rare diagnosis in an unexpected demographic. The novelty of this presentation led to delays in diagnosis and effective treatment. Greater awareness of the occurrence of DES in atypical demographics is needed to ensure proper patient management.
In children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, less task‐related up‐modulation of motor cortex during response inhibition
Authors: Gilbert Donald L. , Crocetti Deana , Horn Paul S. , Wu Steve W. , Huddleston David A. , Ehrman Jacqueline M. , Migneault Karlee Y. , Mostofsky Stewart H.
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify a quantitative, brain‐based measure reflecting impaired response inhibition in children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to evoke potentials in hand muscle during both a simple reaction time and a response inhibition task in 8‐to‐12‐year‐old children, 41 with ADHD (42% girls, 76% white, mean age 10.3 years) and 38 typically developing controls (53% girls, 74% white, mean age 9.8 years). We used mixed‐model linear regressions of evoked potential amplitudes to compare motor cortex excitability at (1) task‐onset (“START”: 550 ms prior to action); (2) preparing‐to‐go (“GO”: 150 ms prior to action); and (3) selecting‐to‐stop (“STOP”: 150 ms after stop cue). We hypothesized that task‐related up‐modulation of motor cortex excitability (motor evoked potential amplitudes) would depend both on task (STOP > GO > START) and on diagnosis (controls > patients).

Results

Motor cortex up‐modulation was significantly greater for STOP trials than during GO or START. Children with ADHD had both worse response inhibition performance (longer stop‐signal reaction times) and significantly less task effect on motor cortex up‐modulation. The largest diagnostic difference in motor cortex activation occurred during STOP trials. Reduced up‐modulation during stopping was also associated with higher parent‐rated symptom severity.

Interpretation

Our findings suggest that motor cortex up‐modulation of excitability, assessed indirectly by TMS motor evoked potentials, reflects the cognitive load during response inhibition tasks and may be a quantitative, brain‐based indicator of impaired response inhibition in children with ADHD.
Engineering Cascade Bio‐Solar Cells Inspired by the Z‐Scheme of Oxygenic Photosynthesis: Layered Chlorophyll and Bacterio‐Chlorophyll Derivatives
Authors: Duan Shengnan , Gu Teng , Uragami Chiasa , Sasaki Shin‐ichi , Zhou Yuanqi , Tao Ruohan , Zhou Xianju , Feng Chunbao , Tamiaki Hitoshi , Wang Xiao‐Feng , Xiao Zeyun , Hashimoto Hideki
Published: January 2025

The natural Z‐scheme of oxygenic photosynthesis efficiently drives electron transfer from photosystem II (PSII) to photosystem I (PSI) via an electron transport chain, despite the lower energy levels of PSII. Inspired by this sophisticated mechanism, we present a layered cascade bio‐solar cell (CBSC) that emulates the Z‐scheme. In this design, chlorophyll derivatives (Chl) act as PSI analogs, while bacteriochlorophyll derivatives (BChl) serve as PSII analogs in the active layer. The resulting photocurrent, prominently detected in the near‐infrared region, is validated through external quantum efficiency measurements. Sub‐nanosecond transient absorption spectroscopy reveals a prolonged charge transfer (CT) state from BChl to Chl (Chl–/BChl+ species) compared to the reverse direction (Chl+/BChl– species). This asymmetry highlights a dominant electron flow from BChl (PSII analog) to Chl (PSI analog) under simultaneous excitation, effectively replicating the natural Z‐scheme electron transfer. These findings represent a significant advance in the design of bio‐inspired solar cells, paving the way for artificial photosynthesis systems and offering profound insights into improving photovoltaic theory and efficiency.
Implementation and Analysis of Enhanced Performance of Elliptic Curve Cryptography Processor Over Prime Field
Authors: Rahman Md. Sazedur , Halder Kalyan Kumar , Apon Imtiaz Ahamed , Tareq Md. Motiur Rahman
Published: January 2025

Designing an optimized performance elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) processor capable of rapid point multiplication while saving hardware resources is an essential part of system security. This study introduces the implementation of a field‐programmable gate array (FPGA) design of the ECC processor (ECCP), prioritizing speed, compactness, maximum operating frequency, and resultant throughput rate in the prime field of 256‐bit. The processor enables efficient point multiplication for 256 bits in the twisted Edwards25519 curve, which is vital for the strength of the Edwards curve digital signature algorithm (EdDSA). Unique architectures of hardware for different modular and group operations in the twisted Edwards curve are proposed in this work. The processor achieves modular multiplication, point addition, and doubling in only 257, 1286, and 518 clock cycles, respectively. For 256‐bit keys, a point multiplication takes 0.51 ms, which operates at the highest frequency of 226.7 MHz with a cycle count of 115.2 k and a throughput of 501.9 Kbps. The implementation, executed on the Kintex‐7 platform for FPGA implementation in projective coordinates, utilizes 14.7 k slices. This design demonstrates time‐ and throughput‐efficient design by providing fast scalar multiplication while using minimum hardware resources without compromising security. The proposed ECCP on the Edwards curve's performance is improved in such a way that the device uses optimized area, time, frequency, and throughput rate. To generate a key for the ECCP and EdDSA, we simulate various operations like modular arithmetic operations, group operations, and point operations required for correct ECPM implementation on Xilinx ISE and ModelSim. Then we verify these results using the Maple tool.
Chinese Visceral Adiposity Index Trajectory and Stroke in Prediabetes and Diabetes: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Qitong , Sun Ming , Liu Yang , Xu Wenqi , Zheng Huancong , Ning Ning , Huang Rong , Zhou Jin , Shao Jinang , Zhou Wenhui , Chen Shuohua , Wu Shouling , Ma Yanan
Published: January 2025

Aims

Stroke is a common diabetic complication, by which the Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI) is confirmed as a better predictor of visceral fat. However, the relationship between CVAI change and the stroke risk among patients with diabetes and prediabetes remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to examine the association of CVAI trajectory with the risk of stroke.

Materials and Methods

This prospective cohort study included 11,339 patients with prediabetes and diabetes from the Kailuan study. These participants had complete repeated metabolic and body measurements that formed the continuous CVAI records. The stroke cases were identified by medical records. Latent mixture modelling was conducted to fit four groups of CVAI trajectories. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to examine the associations between CVAI trajectories and the risk of stroke and its subtypes.

Results

Four distinct CVAI trajectories were identified: the low‐stable, moderate low‐stable, moderate high‐stable, and high‐increasing groups. Compared with low‐stable CVAI, moderate high‐stable (HR: 1.50, 95%CI: 1.10–2.04) and high‐increasing CVAI (HR: 2.15, 95%CI: 1.49–3.10) were positively associated with the risk of stroke. Similarly, moderate high‐stable (HR: 1.70, 95%CI: 1.21–2.39) and high‐increasing CVAI trajectory groups (HR: 2.53, 95%CI: 1.71–3.73) had an increased risk of ischaemic stroke compared with the low‐stable CVAI group. However, a significant association was not found between CVAI trajectory and risk of haemorrhage stroke.

Conclusion

A long‐term elevated CVAI is associated with a higher risk of stroke, especially ischaemic stroke. This finding suggests the health benefits of low CVAI levels and the importance of regular surveillance among patients with prediabetes and diabetes.
Releasing Intramolecular Stress of Curved Fused‐Core to Enhance N‐Type Carrier Transport Performance in A‐D‐A’‐D‐A Type Non‐Fused Small Molecule
Authors: Sun Hua , Li Wenju , Zhou Qin , Zhang Jing , Zhang Qichun
Published: January 2025

N‐type organic semiconductors based on non‐fused rings offer concise synthesis routes and low–cost production. Leveraging intramolecular non‐covalent interactions, non‐fused organic semiconductors can achieve fine regulation of molecular spatial configurations, thereby influencing the electrical performance. Herein, we successfully developed a non‐fused n‐type organic semiconductor with an A−D‐A′‐D−A structure, designated as IMIC. Compared to the fused A‐DA'D−A molecule, IMIC not only simplifies the synthetic steps but also significantly improves solubility and optical absorption properties. The non‐fused molecular architecture relieves the internal stress of rigid, curved polycyclic fused rings, granting greater spatial freedom to the components of the IMIC molecule, which is conducive to optimizing the spatial configuration of the molecule in the aggregated state. Ultimately, the electron mobility of OFET devices based on IMIC is tripled compared to TIIC, reaching 1.1×10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1 in ambient conditions.
Policy implementation and policy instruments: The underdeveloped dimensions of the four “political” American policy process theories. A Western European perspective
Authors: Capano Giliberto
Published: January 2025

The fifth edition of “Theories of the Policy Process” represents a further step in consolidating these theories. However, four of them—Advocacy Coalition Framework, Multiple Streams Framework, Narrative Policy Framework, and Punctuated Equilibrium Theory—exhibit a few limitations in light of the characteristics of implementation and policy instruments due to their founding principles, the central role of pluralism and the will to abandon the original normativism of the policy sciences. Thus, these four theories seem to be framed to capture the politics of policy‐making in a dynamic way rather than to understand how policies are able to deliver results to society. This affects the relevance and applicability of these theories from a Western European perspective but probably also from other cultural and geopolitical perspectives. After a discussion of these limitations, the paper outlines a number of suggestions for overcoming them.
Characterisation of C‐β‐Cyclodextrin‐Thymol Inclusion Complexes as Delivery Systems for Antibacterial and Antioxidant Applications
Authors: Xu Tanfang , Liu Junfeng , Wang Ping , Zan Junfeng , Yang Ke , Tian Daizhi , Chen Maohua , Li Yanhua
Published: January 2025

Thymol (THY) is a natural antioxidant and antimicrobial; however, its biological activity and application in the food and pharmaceutical fields are limited due to its low water solubility and volatility. In this study, inclusion complexes of cationic‐β‐cyclodextrin‐THY (C‐β‐CD‐THY) were prepared by using the aqueous stirring method. Then UV–Vis spectra, FT‐IR, NMR, DSC, XRD and SEM data were collected to characterise the structure and morphology of the inclusion complexes. Phase solubility experiments showed a better solubilisation effect of C‐β‐CD‐THY than HP‐β‐CD‐THY. At a concentration of 0.64 mmol/L for THY, the DPPH scavenging rate was 60.99% and 61.31% for HP‐β‐CD‐THY and C‐β‐CD‐THY, respectively, whereas that of THY in 10% ethanol was only 43.47%. The bacteriostatic activity was verified using a circle of inhibition and the live/dead bacterial double stain. C‐β‐CD‐THY exhibited better antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus than HP‐β‐CD‐THY. In conclusion, the C‐β‐CD‐THY inclusion complexes have the potential to be applied as an effective bacteriostatic agent for food and pharmaceutical applications.
Selection of the Anti‐Osteoporosis Active Ingredients of Fructus Psoraleae—Eucommia—Drynariae Rhizoma Based on Solid‐Phase Bio‐Cell Chromatography and HPLC–MS Analysis
Authors: Zhu Liming , Wang Yeqing , Zhu Zhongxin , Yao Xiaocong , Zhang Ruijuan , Xia Yujie , Liu Minbo
Published: January 2025

Osteoporosis (OP) is a prevalent metabolic bone disease globally. Currently, the development of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) resources to unblock joints, strengthen bones, and enhance muscle function to regulate anti‐osteogenic and anabolic metabolism and thus reshape intraosseous homeostasis was an effective way to alleviate OP. The F–E–D formula, comprising Fructus Psoraleae, Eucommia, and Drynariae Rhizoma, has shown efficacy in treating OP. However, its complex natural components necessitate the screening and simplification of bioactive compounds to further elucidate their therapeutic mechanisms and enhance therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we first used drug–target binding to produce different effects, which in turn exhibited different retention characteristics on the stationary phase. Using osteoblasts and osteoclasts as stationary phases, a chromatographic system (Solid‐phase Bio‐cell Chromatography, SBC) had been constructed to mimic the drug–target interaction, and the separation, analysis, and bioactivity screening of the chemical components of F–E–D had been performed. Then, the above collected eluates were analyzed by fine metabolomics, and 95 effective metabolites were initially screened and combined with database screening to finally select betaine, L‐fucose, and itaconic acid as potentially active candidate compound monomers for the interaction with osteoblast–osteoclast in F–E–D. In terms of cell validation experiments, we found that the screened active monomers significantly inhibited the formation of osteoclasts, and the itaconic acid–treated group played a significant inhibitory effect on the expression of inflammatory factors TNF‐α and IL‐6. The above experimental data showed that the monomeric active ingredients in TCM could be effectively screened by solid‐phase bio‐chromatography and HPLC–MS, and the in vitro cellular experiments verified that the active monomers of TCM slowed down the progression of OP by inhibiting osteoclast production and alleviating the expression of inflammation.
NRF2 Antioxidant Response and Interferon‐Stimulated Genes Are Differentially Expressed in SARS‐CoV‐2‐Positive Young Subjects
Authors: Toscanelli Walter , Fracella Matteo , De Angelis Marta , Scagnolari Carolina , Sorrentino Leonardo , Piselli Elena , Marcocci Maria Elena , Midulla Fabio , Mancino Enrica , Nenna Raffaella , Petrarca Laura , Palamara Anna Teresa , Antonelli Guido , Pierangeli Alessandra , Nencioni Lucia
Published: January 2025

Background

Several respiratory viruses, including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome‐Coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), suppress nuclear factor‐E2‐related factor‐2 (NRF2) antioxidant response, generating oxidative stress conditions to its advantage. NRF2 has also been reported to regulate the innate immune response through the inhibition of the interferon (IFN) pathway. However, its modulation in younger individuals and its correlation with the IFN response remain to be elucidated.

Methods

The NRF2 and redox‐related genes expression was examined in nasopharyngeal swabs from children attending the pediatric hospital for SARS‐CoV‐2 molecular testing. Expression levels were analyzed by stratifying the population according to the SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity, age, or the presence of symptoms. The results were correlated with Types I and III IFN genes and IFN‐stimulated genes (ISGs).

Results

We found that NRF2 expression was markedly diminished in positive patients compared to negative. Moreover, it correlated with higher expression of IFNα2 and IFNλ3, as well as ISG15 and ISG56. Interestingly, symptomatic patients with anosmia/ageusia showed pronounced expression of apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease1/redox factor 1 (APE1), together with Type I IFNs, ISG56, and the inflammasome component NLRP3.

Conclusion

The results indicate an interdependence between NRF2 antioxidant pathway and IFN‐mediated response during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in young subjects.
Opportunistic salpingectomy: A Delphi study among Brazilian experts
Authors: da Silva Filho Agnaldo Lopes , Carvalho Jesus Paula , Pinhati Matheus Eduardo Soares , Gomes Mariano Tamura Vieira , Lamaita Rivia Mara , Monteiro Ilza Maria Urbano , Neves Gabriel Lage , Castro Laura Guimarães , Romualdo Guilherme Reis , Candido Eduardo Batista
Published: January 2025

Synopsis

Brazilian experts evaluated the consensus on opportunistic salpingectomy as a preventive approach against ovarian cancer, highlighting adoption potential and key implementation barriers in clinical practice.
Establishing Decisional Cutoff Values of Neurofilament Light Chains in Cerebrospinal Fluid Measured by Fully Automated Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassay
Authors: Agnello Luisa , Gambino Caterina Maria , Del Ben Fabio , Ciaccio Anna Maria , Scazzone Concetta , Ciaccio Marcello
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is one of the most important biomarkers in the field of clinical neurochemistry. Several analytical methods have been developed in the last decade. Recently, Fujirebio introduced a ready‐to‐use assay kit for measuring NfL levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) on the fully automated LUMIPULSE G System. In this study, we established the decisional cutoffs for CSF NfL.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective observational study including patients with cognitive decline. CSF NfL levels were measured by two analytical methods: the NF‐light ELISA kit (UmanDiagnostics) and the Lumipulse G1200 fully automated system (Fujirebio). We calculated the cutoffs for the Lumipulse, starting from the consolidated cutoffs of the ELISA method for each age and using the equation obtained by the regression analysis.

Results

The study population consisted of 100 patients with cognitive decline. The median levels of CSF NfL measured by Lumipulse and ELISA were 776.5 ± 772.6 pg/mL and 473.5 ± 443.5 pg/mL, respectively, significantly different (p < 0.001). The Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was 0.962, indicating a robust positive correlation between the two measurement methods. The equation derived from the Passing–Bablok regression analysis was CSF CLEIA = −61.16 + 1.83 × CSF ELISA. Based on this equation, we defined the decisional cutoff values.

Conclusions

Decisional cutoffs are fundamental tools for guiding clinicians to use biomarkers' results and interpretation appropriately. This is the first study establishing the decisional cutoff value of NfL measured by Lumipulse, a fully automated platform widely used in clinical laboratories.
Estimating SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron XBB.1.5 Spike‐Directed Functional Antibody Levels From an Anti‐Receptor Binding Domain Wuhan‐Hu‐1‐Based Commercial Immunoassay Results
Authors: Sánchez‐Simarro Ángela , Cuevas‐Ferrando Enric , Fernández‑Soto Daniel , Grau Brayan , Albert Eliseo , Giménez Estela , Avilés‑Alía Ana Isabel , Rusu Luciana , Geller Ron , Reyburn Hugh T. , Navarro David
Published: January 2025

We investigated whether antibody concentrations measured in plasma using the Roche Elecsys® Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 S assay (targeting the receptor binding domain, RBD) could estimate levels of Wuhan‐Hu‐1 and Omicron XBB.1.5 spike‐directed antibodies with neutralizing ability (NtAb) or those mediating NK‐cell activity. We analyzed 135 plasma samples from 39 vaccinated elderly nursing home residents. A strong correlation was found for NtAb against both Wuhan‐Hu‐1 (Rho = 0.73, p < 0.001) and Omicron XBB.1.5 (sub)variants (Rho = 0.73, p < 0.001). Moderate positive correlations were observed for NK‐cell activity, based on lysosome‐associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1)‐producing NK cells stimulated with Wuhan‐Hu‐1 (Rho = 0.43, p < 0.001) and Omicron XBB.1.5 spike proteins (Rho = 0.50, p < 0.001). Similarly, interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ)‐producing NK‐cell frequencies showed moderate correlations (Wuhan‐Hu‐1: Rho = 0.43, p < 0.001; Omicron XBB.1.5: Rho = 0.50, p < 0.001). Random Forest models accurately predicted NtAb levels against Wuhan‐Hu‐1 (R2 = 0.72), though models for Omicron XBB.1.5 were less robust. Anti‐RBD antibody concentrations of 4.73 and 5.02 log10 BAU/mL predicted high NtAb levels for Wuhan‐Hu‐1 and Omicron XBB.1.5, respectively. Antibody thresholds for predicting functional NK cell‐mediated responses were 4.73 log10 and 4.54 log10 BAU/mL for Wuhan‐Hu‐1 and Omicron XBB.1.5, respectively. For LAMP1‐producing NK cells, the thresholds were 4.94 and 4.75 log10 BAU/mL for Wuhan‐Hu‐1 and Omicron XBB.1.5, respectively. In summary, total anti‐RBD antibody levels measured by the Roche assay may allow inference of NtAb levels and, to a lesser extent, Fc‐mediated NK‐cell responses against Omicron XBB.1.5.
Localised Therapies Using 3D‐Printed Collagen‐Based Micro‐Implant for Ocular Indications
Authors: Kashkooli Hamid Heidari , Farokh Arian , Mohammadi Sajad , Marcotulli Martina , Franco Silvia , Angelini Roberta , Ruocco Giancarlo , Khalili Hanieh , Cidonio Gianluca
Published: January 2025

Current limitations in treating retinal diseases like age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) are due to the short ocular residence time of biologics and the difficulty of precise drug delivery. In turn, frequent injections are required, hindering patient compliance, and increasing healthcare costs. This study explores the development of a collagen‐based implant using 3D bioprinting platform to address these challenges. The implant offers dual functionalities: i) sustained and localized drug delivery using in situ polymerization collagen (IPC) to act as reservoirs for prolonged release of biologics to the target tissue and ii) scaffold stability through the incorporation of methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HAMA) to enhance the mechanical properties of the IPC implant, making it suitable for 3D printing of targeted drug delivery systems. This data demonstrates that IPC‐HAMA implants exhibit slow drug release and scaffold stability for over 80 days. Additionally, 3D bioprinting enables precise targeting and volumetric control within the simulated vitreous humor, overcoming challenges associated with traditional injection methods. This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize drug delivery and localized tissue therapy for retinal diseases.
Dynamic Covalent Sulfur‐Selenium Rich Polymers via Inverse Vulcanization for High Refractive Index, High Transmittance, and UV Shielding Materials
Authors: Jia Jinhong , Chai Yao , Xun Xingwei , Gao Yan , Qiao Tongsen , Wang Xiong , Wang Xi‐Cun , Hasell Tom , Wu Xiaofeng , Quan Zheng‐Jun
Published: January 2025

Recent advancements in inverse vulcanization have led to the development of sulfur‐rich polymers with diverse applications. However, progress is constrained by the harsh high‐temperature reaction conditions, limited applicability, and the generation of hazardous H2S gas. This study presents an induced IV method utilizing selenium octanoic acid, yielding sulfur‐selenium rich polymers with full atom economy, even at a low‐temperatures of 100–120 °C. The resultant sulfur‐selenium rich polymers exhibit exceptional optical properties: 1) A high refractive index, reaching 1.89 when the total sulfur‐selenium content is 65%; 2) Excellent UV shielding capabilities, blocking ultraviolet rays while permitting 95.1–98.6% transmission of visible light; 3) Notable transparency, with polymer films of 0.94 mm thickness exhibiting good transparency under natural light. The materials also demonstrate environmental stability under prolonged exposure to hot or cold conditions. Additionally, the polymers display adhesive strength as evidenced by two adhered glass slides with the material lifting weights of up to 20 kg without any displacement in their glued area. These properties provide a new avenue for sulfur‐selenium rich materials to be implemented in high‐precision optical instruments with unique characteristics.
Deflection responses of damaged hybrid (carbon nanotubes – luffa) composite structure: An experimental verification
Authors: Patel B. , Guru K. , Bohidar S. K.
Published: January 2025

The deflection responses of intact and damaged hybrid curved shell structures are investigated numerically and experimentally under mechanical loading conditions. The damaged hybrid composite is numerically modelled in MATLAB using higher‐order mid‐plane polynomials and finite element technique. The consistent characteristics and model accuracy have been established by comparing the consequences to those accessible in the existing article. Additionally, the study examined experimentally and computationally obtained elastic properties from the DIGIMAT tool, substantially boosting the extent and reliability of the analysis. Finally, numerous examples are provided to illustrate the impact of damage, considering various parametric input constraints, on the deflection characteristics of the hybrid composite.