bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Sensitive and Selective LC–MS/MS‐ESI Method for the Quantitation of Metabolites M9, M12, and M20 of Bexicaserin in Human Plasma and Urine Matrices
Authors: Kallem Raja Reddy , Yeager Maisy , Chan Rosa , Fletcher Katharine , Neal Katie , Srinivas Nuggehally R.
Published: February 2025

Bexicaserin is a highly selective 5HT2c receptor agonist being developed for the treatment of seizures associated with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). We report an LC–MS/MS method for the quantitative estimation of three pharmacologically inactive metabolites (M9, M12, and M20) of bexicaserin in human plasma/urine. Sample preparation involves the extraction of M9, M12, M20, and internal standards (ISs) from 25‐μL plasma and 50‐μL urine following protein precipitation. The chromatographic separation of analytes was achieved on a HSS T3‐C18 column. The calibration curves ranged from 0.1 to 100 ng/mL for M9, 0.5–500 ng/mL for M12, and 1.0–1000 ng/mL for M20 in plasma and 2.0–2000 ng/mL for M9 and M12 and 10–10,000 ng/mL for M20 in urine. Intraday/interday precision and accuracy, linearity, matrix effect, extraction recovery, carry‐over, dilution integrity, stability studies, and incurred sample reanalysis were performed in both plasma and urine. The intraday and interday accuracy and precision for metabolites met the stipulated regulatory guidelines. Stability studies in plasma and urine showed that analytes were stable at bench‐top for > 23.5 h and in autosampler for > 69 h. Analytes were stable after five freeze–thaw cycles and > 552 days of long‐term storage at −20°C and −80°C.
Deciphering the skeletal interoceptive circuitry to control bone homeostasis
Authors: Wu Yefeng , Guo Jiusi , Chen Zhen , Zhang Fengwei , Chow Billy Kwok Chong , Chen Zhuofan , Yeung Kelvin Wai‐Kwok , Qiao Wei
Published: February 2025

Bone tissue is richly innervated, and the influence of the nervous system on the physiological and pathological status of bone tissue has emerged as a significant research focus. The recent discovery of the skeletal interoceptive circuits further emphasizes the crucial role of the central nervous system in the control of bone homeostasis. Skeletal interoception represents one of the most intricate mechanisms in the human body for maintaining bone homeostasis, as it involves the orchestrated efforts of skeletal, nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. In this review, we comprehensively introduce the three primary components of the skeletal interoceptive circuitry, including the ascending pathways that perceive and convey signals to the central nervous system, the central neural pathways that process and interpret these signals, and the descending pathways that mediate the regulatory effects on bone tissue. We also discuss how innovative therapeutic strategies can be developed to modulate bone homeostasis by leveraging the most updated findings on skeletal interoceptive circuitry. We anticipate that the application of knowledge on skeletal interoception will lead to a paradigm shift in the field of orthopaedics and biomaterials.
Climate Change in Microcredit Portfolios: Evidence on Vulnerability, Adaptation and Implications for Inclusive Finance
Authors: Dorfleitner Gregor , Forcella Davide , Gerckens Andreas
Published: February 2025

Climate change poses new challenges to the social mission and financial viability of microfinance institutions (MFIs). These include the vulnerability of borrowers, increased credit risks and the need to adapt to the changing climate. Using a novel microcredit data set, we first study the prevalence of climatic hazards and vulnerabilities in the portfolios of MFIs across Latin America and the Caribbean as well as sub‐Saharan Africa. We find evidence of microborrower vulnerability to climatic hazards and associated heightened credit risk. We then explore ecosystem‐based adaptation (EbA) as a potential strategic complement to inclusive finance in aiding adaptation. Our analysis finds widespread autonomous implementation of EbA by agricultural microborrowers. While EbA measures appear to negatively moderate the association between climatic hazards and microborrower vulnerabilities, we do not find them to be directly associated with lower vulnerabilities. Furthermore, lenders do not appear to increase financing of adaptation in portfolios with greater exposure to climatic hazards. The findings suggest a need to enhance the effectiveness of adaptive actions and further potential to expand the financing of EbA by MFIs.
Prognostic Impact of Stimulator of Interferon Genes Expression in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Maeda Tetsuyo , Ono Makiko , Osako Tomo , Chiba Tomohiro , Baba Satoko , Iesato Asumi , Ozaki Yukinori , Inoue Yuka , Uehiro Natsue , Takahashi Yoko , Kobayashi Takayuki , Kogawa Takahiro , Ohta Tomohiko , Kitano Shigehisa , Ueno Takayuki , Ohno Shinji
Published: February 2025

Background

Patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) who have a poor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) have worse survival and new treatment strategies need to be developed. TNBC is considered a subtype in which the cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase (cGAS) is linked to the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway, an innate immune response that recognizes cytosolic nucleic acid components, is activated when DNA damage occurs, and is attracting attention as a new therapeutic target.

Methods

Patients with TNBC who underwent surgery following NAC and for whom pre‐ and post‐treatment tissue specimens were available were enrolled in this study. To examine the association of STING expression with immune profiles and prognosis, STING, cGAS, CD8, and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expressions in tumor cells (TCs) and immune cells (ICs), and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were assessed using immunohistochemistry of specimens obtained at pre‐treatment and at surgery.

Results

Ninety‐one cases were eligible, of which 68 cases were evaluable and included in the analysis. The high STING expression at baseline was marginally correlated with TILs, but not with CD8+ cells or PD‐L1 expression. Patients with sustained high expression of STING before and after NAC had a significantly poorer prognosis than that of others for distant recurrence‐free survival and breast cancer‐specific survival independent of nodal status, lymphatic invasion and therapeutic effects (p = 0.024 and 0.014, respectively).

Conclusion

TNBCs with sustained high STING expression following NAC demonstrated a poor prognosis and will be a target for new treatment strategies.
Navigating Metabolic Challenges in Ovarian Cancer: Insights and Innovations in Drug Repurposing
Authors: Mikhael Sara , Daoud Georges
Published: February 2025

Background

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy and a major global health concern, often diagnosed at advanced stages with poor survival rates. Despite advancements in treatment, resistance to standard chemotherapy remains a critical challenge with limited treatment options available. In recent years, the role of metabolic reprogramming in OC has emerged as a key factor driving tumor progression, therapy resistance, and poor clinical outcomes.

Methods

This review explores the intricate connections between metabolic syndrome, enhanced glycolysis, and altered lipid metabolism within OC cells, which fuel the aggressive nature of the disease. We discuss how metabolic pathways are rewired in OC to support uncontrolled cell proliferation, survival under hypoxic conditions, and evasion of cell death mechanisms, positioning metabolic alterations as central to disease progression. The review also highlights the potential of repurposed metabolic‐targeting drugs, such as metformin and statins, which have shown promise in preclinical studies for their ability to disrupt these altered metabolic pathways.

Conclusion

Drug repurposing offers a promising strategy to overcome chemoresistance and improve patient outcomes. Future research should focus on unraveling the complex metabolic networks in OC to develop innovative, targeted therapies that can enhance treatment efficacy and patient survival.
Promoting Racial Justice in Cancer Clinical Trials: Community Engaged Solutions for Bridging Gaps
Authors: Williams Deana M. , Pflugeisen Chaya M. , Ameen Khadijah , Chen Toby K. , Cooks Sheree , Ray Bernadette C. , Foster Melissa , Phillips De , Sanchez Lizbeth , Hardiman Keywanna , Smith Cynthia , Slim Jennifer
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Racially and ethnically diverse populations are disproportionately burdened with and more likely to die from cancer than White populations but remain persistently underrepresented in cancer clinical trials. Thus, the safety and efficacy assessments of novel therapies may not apply to all populations, and guidelines are developed using trials that inadequately reflect our population. This study aims to explore healthcare experiences, cancer clinical trial perceptions, and solutions for bridging gaps in cancer clinical trials among communities of color.

Methods

We held a series of five focus groups with 23 survivors and caregivers of color. These sessions explored perspectives around cancer care and research, clinical trials recruitment and messaging, and priorities around addressing the current insufficiency in representation in cancer research.

Results

Our focus group data was analyzed using an inductive thematic approach. Four themes were present including (1) high motivation to participate in cancer trials and desire for better outreach and education within communities of color; (2) examples of just care as a model for improving access to clinical trials; (3) manifestations of power and inequity in healthcare inhibiting opportunities for clinical trial participation; and (4) the need for trust‐building at the healthcare, community, and interpersonal levels.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that people of color strongly desire clinical trial options and discussions during cancer care, and trust‐building is foundational to opening pathways to research participation. We offer concrete steps for increasing racial justice in cancer clinical trials that serve as a point of reflection and guidance for healthcare professionals, researchers, and clinical trials teams.
The Veteran's Identity Journey: A Qualitative Exploration Through Social Identity Model of Identity Change
Authors: Sharma Aditi , Hussain Dilwar
Published: February 2025

The current study delves into the transition faced by military veterans upon their retirement from the armed forces. Retirees encounter various difficulties, primarily revolving around shifts in group dynamics, alterations in roles and responsibilities and adapting to civilian life. Rooted in the Social Identity Model of Identity Change (SIMIC), which posits that group identification can mitigate threats to well‐being during life transitions, we explored the relevance of this model to the context of military retirement. Through semi‐structured interviews with 17 retired veterans, we employed reflexive thematic analysis to investigate SIMIC's pathways. Our findings underscored the significance of identity continuity and gain pathways, which either posed challenges to veterans' sense of identity or facilitated their adjustment process. The compatibility between the two pathways also played a crucial role in facilitating the adjustment process. This qualitative validation of the SIMIC model sheds light on the unique experiences of veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. Please refer to the Supporting Information section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Mitochondria‐Targeted Temozolomide Probe for Overcoming MGMT‐Mediated Resistance in Glioblastoma
Authors: Szames Daniel , Kelley Shana
Published: February 2025

Temozolomide (Tmz) is a DNA methylating agent used for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Resistance to Tmz in GBM is caused by the DNA direct repair enzyme O6‐methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), which is expressed in ~50% of GBM tumours. It has yet to be confirmed that MGMT acts within mitochondria to repair mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), and in this report we discuss the development of a novel mitochondria‐targeted temozolomide probe (mtTmz) for evading MGMT‐mediated resistance. Through conjugation of Tmz to a mitochondria‐penetrating peptide (MPP), exclusive mitochondrial localization was achieved, and the probe retained alkylation activity demonstrated by chemical and DNA‐based assays. Absence of nuclear DNA damage was assessed by detecting γH2AX foci. mtTmz demonstrated efficient cell killing capabilities independent of MGMT status in GBM cells as determined by cell viability assays. It was determined using a Proteinase K digestion assay that MGMT does not translocate to mitochondria in response to mtTmz treatment, and RT‐qPCR analysis demonstrated that mtTmz does not induce MGMT gene expression compared to Tmz. The results reported highlight both the potential of mitochondrial targeting of Tmz and mitochondria as a therapeutic target in MGMT‐expressing GBM.
Small Molecule Fluorescent Probes for Glutathione S‐Transferase
Authors: Yin Jun , Lu Pingping , Huang Huiting , Liu Jia , Cao Yixuan , Liu Sheng Hua
Published: February 2025

Cytoplasmic glutathione S‐transferase (GST) is a key enzyme in cellular detoxification, catalysing the nucleophilic attack of glutathione (GSH) with toxic electrophilic substrates to produce less harmful compounds, thus aiding cellular detoxification. Studies have shown that GST is closely associated with the development of resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs, pesticides, herbicides and antibiotics, and the development of drug resistance in organisms poses new challenges in areas such as environmental protection and tumour therapy. In order to clarify the mechanism of GST in the development of drug resistance and detect the content of GST more accurately, this paper summarized the mechanism of GST on the development of drug resistance in different organisms, the types and research progress of organic small molecule fluorescence probes for GST imaging detection are introduced.
Novel Space‐Crowded Through‐Space Charge Transfer Molecules for the Fabrication of Efficient Blue OLEDs
Authors: Zou Peng , Yang Zuguo , Dong Xiaobin , Zhong Zhongri , Xu Letian , Tang Ben Zhong , Zhao Zujin
Published: February 2025

Currently, the advance of high‐resolution display device puts a high requirement for the development of efficient luminescent materials emitting high‐quality blue light. But stable blue luminescent materials with high electroluminescence (EL) efficiencies and narrow emission spectra are still rare. In this work, two efficient blue molecules (mCPTC and 2mCPTC) are developed by linking large‐volume electron donors of 1,3‐bis(N‐carbazolyl)benzene (mCP) and electron acceptor of 2,4‐diphenyl‐1,3,5‐triazine (DPTRZ) on the 3,6‐di(tert‐butyl)carbazole holder through benzene bridges. Their thermal stability, crystal and electronic structures, energy levels, photophysical property, charge transport ability and EL behaviors are thoroughly studied. They hold high structural rigidity and through‐space charge transfer characteristics between donor and acceptor, and exhibit strong deep blue photoluminescence. They can not only function as emitters in OLEDs to radiate deep blue light, but also serve as efficient hosts for blue multi‐resonance emitter v‐DABNA, providing narrow EL spectra and excellent EL efficiencies of 24.21%, much higher than those in common host without sensitizers. These results demonstrate the good potentials of these blue molecules in the fabrication of efficient narrow‐spectrum blue OLEDs.
Conversion‐time relations for fluid–solid reactors with shrinking‐core kinetics
Authors: Tarifa Enrique Eduardo , García Juan Rafael , Vera Carlos Román
Published: February 2025

The problem of finding expressions linking conversion and residence time for systems of fluid–solid reactions with shrinking‐core kinetics is revisited. The classical formulae are revised for the three classical cases with different rate‐limiting resistances: mass transfer in the film, chemical reaction and diffusion through the ash layer. It is demonstrated that, for a single particle size, the classical Taylor's expansions of the conversion as a function of the dimensionless residence time can be conveniently replaced by other mathematical functions to solve the problem of inaccuracy and multiple roots of the polynomials. The proposed correlations give accurate solutions. Pairwise correlations permit getting the conversion from the residence time, and the residence time from a given conversion, with no multiple roots, for the cases of a continuous reactor with plug flow or perfectly mixed flow, for the three cases of rate‐limiting resistances. The obtained results demonstrate that classical Taylor expansions yield significant errors for small residence times, whereas the newly proposed correlations avoid this issue and provide greater accuracy across the whole range. From the point of view of numerical calculus, the new correlations are simpler and reduce computational effort by eliminating the need to calculate numerous polynomial terms.
Weak Absorptive Component Boosts Exciton Dissociation in Indoor Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Wen Zhenchuan , Qiao Jiawei , Yang Yuying , Hao Xiaotao
Published: February 2025

Comprehensive Summary

Indoor organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells have emerged as promising candidates for harvesting energy from artificial light sources. However, the limited spectral range and low photon flux of indoor light sources restrict the photocurrent and power output of these devices. In this work, we investigate the role of a weak absorptive third component in enhancing exciton dissociation and improving indoor OPV performance. By introducing eC9‐2Cl into a D18‐Cl:F‐BTA3 binary system, we create a ternary blend that demonstrates significant improvements in device efficiency. Transient absorption spectroscopy and time‐resolved photoluminescence measurements reveal that eC9‐2Cl facilitates efficient energy transfer and exciton dissociation. Under indoor lighting conditions, where eC9‐2Cl acts as a weak absorptive third component, the ternary devices exhibit a power conversion efficiency increase from 24.7% to 26.2%. These findings highlight the potential of weak absorptive components in optimizing energy transfer processes and overcoming the limitations of indoor light harvesting in OPV systems.
A Computational Study on the Neck‐Stem Rectangular Tapered Connection: Effects of Angular Mismatch, Assembly, and Cyclic Loading
Authors: Cromi R. , Ciriello L. , Berti F. , La Barbera L. , Villa T. , Pennati G.
Published: February 2025

The bi‐modular hip prosthesis is characterized by two tapered connections: a circular cross‐section at the head–neck interface and a rectangular cross‐section at the neck‐stem interface. Even if the latter guarantees customization, it concerns a high rate of early failure. The connection resistance is relatable to machining (tolerances cause angular mismatch), implantation (hammering force or manual), and usage (Body Mass Index [BMI]). Due to the lack of literature about the neck‐stem coupling, this work aims to investigate how the geometry of the rectangular taper connection and the external loads affect the fatigue strength of a bi‐modular hip prosthesis through a 3D Finite Element Model (FEM). Nine combinations of neck‐stem coupling are obtained considering the tolerances' limits on frontal and lateral angles as . The CoCr neck and the Ti6Al4V stem, studied in their halved, are constrained and loaded inspired by the standard ISO 7206: the stem is distally encastered simulating the embedding and tilted by 10° concerning the sagittal plane, while the force is applied vertically. First, the influence of the assembly is investigated using , , and ; then, a cyclical vertical force varying from to is imposed. Finally, one combination is analyzed in its integrity to evaluate the effect of the out‐of‐plane load. The study's findings concern: (i) a positive angular mismatch, which is responsible for proximal contacts, improves fatigue life, reducing Sines stress up to 33%; (ii) the higher the assembly force the higher the neck stability and the lower the extension of the overstressed lateral area; (iii) the implant fatigue resistance is directly proportional to the patient's BMI; and (iv) the out‐of‐plane external load causes a 40% increment in the fatigue failure risk.
Structure preferred spinel ferrite on polypyrrole derived N‐doped carbon nanofibers as bifunctional electrocatalyst for Zn‐air battery
Authors: Ding Yan , Xu Xinxin , Wang Linshan
Published: February 2025

The exploration of noble metal free bifunctional oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts is very important for Zn‐air batteries (ZABs). Spinel ferrites are famous bifunctional ORR/OER electrocatalysts. Herein, to further improve their ORR and OER activities, we anchor CoFe2O4 on N‐doped carbon nanofibers (NCNF) derived from polypyrrole (PPy) and obtain CoFe2O4 loaded NCNF (CoFe2O4@NCNF). In its structure, CoFe2O4 particles with small size distribute evenly on NCNF. The combination of CoFe2O4 and NCNF generates excellent ORR activity with typical four‐electron character in both alkaline and neutral electrolyte. In OER, the activity of CoFe2O4@NCNF is also excellent. A rechargeable ZAB is constructed with CoFe2O4@NCNF as cathode material. The specific capacity and energy density of this ZAB reach 807.4 mA·h·g‐1 and 963.6 Wh·kg‐1 at 10 mA·cm‐2, respectively. ZAB can keep stable after continuous charge/discharge test for 120 h. This work not only provides an efficient and low cost cathode material for ZABs, but also clarifies the structure‐activity relationship in ORR/OER for spinel ferrites.
Improved Co‐DETR With Dropkey and Its Application to Hot Work Detection
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Wu Yangfeng , Xu Huang , Xie Yajun , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2025

Although ViT has achieved significant success in the field of image classification, research on ViT‐based object detection algorithms is still in its early stages, and their application in real‐world scenarios is limited. Furthermore, algorithms based on ViT or Transformer are prone to overfitting issues when training data is scarce. While CO‐DETR has achieved state‐of‐the‐art object detection precision on the COCO dataset leaderboard, the ViT‐based CO‐DETR also suffers from overfitting problems, which affect its detection precision on smaller datasets. Based on the study of ViT‐based object detection algorithms, a new object detection algorithm termed DC‐DETR (DropKey Co‐DETR) was proposed in this paper. It builds upon CO‐DETR and introduces a regularization method called DropKey into the Transformer attention mechanism. By randomly dropping part of the Key during the attention phase, the network is encouraged to capture global information about the target object. This method effectively alleviates the overfitting problem in ViT for object detection tasks, improving the model's precision and generalization ability. To validate the effectiveness and practical applicability of DC‐DETR in environments with limited computational resources, a dataset for hot work scenarios was collected and annotated. Based on this dataset, performance tests were conducted on the DC‐DETR, CO‐DETR, and YOLOv5 algorithms. The test results indicate that the proposed DC‐DETR algorithm exhibits superior performance, with detection precision improving by 0.7% compared to CO‐DETR and by 5.7% compared to YOLOv5. The detection speed is the same as CO‐DETR, and only 2.9 ms slower than YOLOv5. The experiments demonstrate that the proposed DC‐DETR algorithm achieves a balance between precision and speed, making it well‐suited for practical object detection applications.
Novel DMAP@Mesoporous Silica Hybrid Heterogeneous Catalysts for the Knoevenagel Condensation: Greener Synthesis through Eco‐friendly Solvents
Authors: Fernandes P. Brito Julio C. , Travagin Fabio , Barbero Mauro , Esteban Cristina , Díaz Urbano , Velty Alexandra , Giovenzana Giovanni B. , Miletto Ivana , Gianotti Enrica
Published: February 2025

This article reports a sustainable synthesis of a novel organic‐inorganic hybrid catalysts, featuring 4‐(dimethylamino)pyridine (DMAP) immobilized onto mesoporous MCM‐41 silica and amorphous Aerosil silica supports. Using (±)‐2‐methyltetrahydrofuran (MeTHF), a bio‐based solvent, the covalent binding of DMAP to silica surfaces was achieved, reducing reliance on traditional petroleum‐based solvents like toluene. The DMAP‐functionalized hybrid catalysts, characterized through XRPD, TGA/DTA, FE‐SEM, and FT‐IR, demonstrated effective catalytic performance in the Knoevenagel condensation, a reaction relevant in producing fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals. The mesoporous MCM‐41‐supported catalyst exhibited superior activity due to its high surface area and ordered porous structure, with 97% yield and 99% selectivity. Stability and reusability were validated through leaching and recycling tests, confirming minimal DMAP leaching and robust catalytic performance over consecutive cycles. This green synthetic pathway underscores the potential of hybrid catalysts in advancing sustainable chemistry, promoting reduced energy consumption, and supporting a circular economy through recyclable, highly active catalysts in eco‐friendly solvents. These findings demonstrate that MCM‐41‐supported DMAP hybrids are viable candidates for eco‐friendly applications.
Does Listing Farther Influence Carbon Emissions Production? Evidence From Internationally Cross‐Border Listed Firms
Authors: Au Anson
Published: February 2025

The past decade has witnessed an increase in stakeholder pressures for publicly‐listed firms to reduce their emissions. While most firms have been receptive to these pressures, they have also been observed to devise strategies to circumvent regulatory guidelines and avoid liabilities. Drawing on a sustainable finance dataset on cross‐border listed firms, this article examines how geographical distance in cross‐border listings may exacerbate the amount of Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions that firms produce to varying degrees. The findings across different model specifications reveal that distance is associated with increases in emissions among cross‐listed firms, but the effect of distance is stronger for ln Scope 1 and ln Scope 2 Emissions among non‐primary listings, whereas the effect is stronger for ln Scope 3 Emissions among primary listings. This article offers evidence that geographical distance in cross‐border listings is a form of jurisdictional arbitrage used by firms to circumvent emissions regulations. Consistent with the way that firms offshore profits and operations to avoid tax liabilities, firms are theorized to offshore emissions and avoid emissions liabilities by listing in cross‐border jurisdictions that are geographically distant from their home jurisdictions.
A Robust Two‐Sensor‐Based Fault Diagnosis for Open‐Switch Fault in Power Stage Inverter of BLDC Motor
Authors: Verma Mriduwani , Mitra Arghya , Bhat Sunil , Garain Kanchan , Pal Saumitra , Wankhede A.K.
Published: February 2025

Three‐phase inverters frequently experience open‐circuit fault in the phase legs due to the failure of semiconductor devices. This has the potential to disrupt the inverter's motor drive system. This paper presents a comprehensive study of open‐switch faults of IGBT‐based inverters and their consequences on the DC‐link current and neutral point voltage for the Brushless DC motor drive system. The effects of the fault on the input DC‐link current, neutral point voltage, and corresponding rotor position in terms of the sectors (that changes at every sixty degrees) are analyzed, and a relationship between the DC‐link input and motor's stator phase current is determined. Based on the analysis of the DC‐link input current and neutral point voltage in accordance with the sector information, a fault diagnosis method using two electrical sensors is proposed. The proposed diagnosis is a sturdy detection technique that can handle multiple switch faults. It will not generate any false alarm because of any system transients or during phase winding fault condition, making it robust for inexpensive motor drive applications. The simulation analysis is done in MATLAB 2023a, and the experimental analysis has been conducted to validate the theory for the proposed diagnosis.
Advancements in liquid marbles as an open microfluidic platform: Rapid formation, robust manipulation, and revolutionary applications
Authors: Tong Tong , Hu Huaiqing , Xie Yuanhao , Jin Jing
Published: February 2025

Liquid marbles (LMs) have become a focal point in microfluidics for their efficient manipulation of small liquid volumes. These non‐wetting droplets, typically coated with hydrophobic particles, offer enhanced stability, reduced evaporation and diverse utility, distinguishing them from bare droplets. This review examines advancements in LMs from 2014 to 2024, focusing on their rapid formation, robust manipulation, and revolutionary applications—termed the “3R trilogy.” We delve into the generation mechanisms, analyzing laboratory and engineering production techniques, and explore how surface particles affect LMs’ physicochemical properties. The structural dynamics and motion control of LMs are investigated, detailing their response to external forces and environmental factors. The review also highlights the state‐of‐the‐art applications of LMs in digital microfluidics, biochemical analysis, materials synthesis, environmental monitoring, soft robotics, and energy harvesting. Concluding with a discussion on significant progress and future development trends, this review provides insights and ideas for broader applications of LM‐based microfluidic platforms.
Standardized Approach to Life History Data Collection in Poeciliid Fishes
Authors: Johnson Erik S.
Published: February 2025

Livebearing fishes in the family Poeciliidae have been essential to testing life history theory. These species are remarkable because males internally inseminate females, and females give birth to free‐swimming young, making these fishes amenable to investigating the evolution of a variety of life history traits, including the timing and nature of maternal reproductive investment, timing of maturity, strategies for maternal provisioning of embryos, and several other classic life history traits. However, researchers vary in the methods that they use to measure these traits, making it difficult to compare findings across studies. Here, I present a standardized approach to studying life history traits in livebearing fishes. I describe methods for preserving samples in the field, for collecting data on a standard set of life history traits, and for processing data in ways that will allow comparisons among studies. I highlight different options in preservation techniques and in data collection that are dependent on the specific questions being addressed. Finally, I argue for a standard approach moving forward to make it possible to complete large‐scale comparative studies to reveal how life history traits have evolved in this important model system.
Nutrient inputs in mesocosms of an oligotrophic lake fail to sustain an algal bloom
Authors: Lewis Jacquelyn L. , Mattes Brian M. , Yates Erika K. , Palmer Emily , Johansen Jeffrey R. , Relyea Rick A.
Published: February 2025

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) rapidly change and threaten aquatic ecosystems. HABs in oligotrophic lakes are becoming more commonly observed, despite the long‐held paradigm that algal blooms cannot happen in low‐nutrient systems. This raises the question of whether nutrient loading, understood as a major driver of HABs, plays an important role in the potential for HAB development in oligotrophic lakes. Using in‐lake mesocosms, we examined the effects of a gradient of nitrogen and phosphorus additions on the pelagic communities of an oligotrophic lake over 4 weeks. We hypothesized that increasing nutrients would result in an increased abundance of phytoplankton and an increased dominance by cyanobacteria. Although our nutrient additions caused an increase in the fluorescence of chlorophyll a (i.e., a proxy for total phytoplankton) and phycocyanin (i.e., a proxy for total cyanobacteria), these increases plateaued at low‐nutrient concentrations and the increases were short‐lived. The identification and enumeration of phytoplankton species confirmed that the composition of the phytoplankton also did not change with added nutrients, nor did the abundance of the dominant zooplankton group (i.e., cladocerans). Furthermore, our biweekly nutrient additions maintained elevated concentrations of total phosphorus and total nitrogen in the water column, with total dissolved phosphorus and nitrate both readily available throughout the experiment. Given that light is very abundant (Secchi depths of 9–10 m), this suggests that another nutrient, such as iron or carbon, may have limited phytoplankton growth. Our findings suggest that excess nutrients may not always drive HABs in oligotrophic lakes and further studies should examine the effects of other micronutrients using similar controlled seminatural mesocosms.
Residential development reduces black bear (Ursus americanus) opportunity to scavenge cougar (Puma concolor) killed prey
Authors: Robins Clint W. , Kertson Brian N. , Kachel Shannon M. , Wirsing Aaron J.
Published: February 2025

Large carnivores commonly scavenge on kills made by other species, but if and how this phenomenon is influenced by urbanization remains unclear. To address this knowledge deficit, we investigated whether housing density, along with demographic and environmental covariates, impacted the probability of American black bear (Ursus americanus) occurrence at cougar (Puma concolor) killed prey along the wildland–urban gradient of western Washington, USA. Under the refuge hypothesis, which stipulates that residential development reduces opportunities for black bears to visit cougar prey carcasses by (1) altering cougar kill composition and/or (2) drawing black bears to human subsidies, we expected the probability of bear presence at cougar kills to decline as housing density increased. Alternatively, under the pileup hypothesis whereby reduced green space drives a greater overlap and thus more frequent interactions among carnivores, we predicted that bear presence at cougar kills would increase with housing density. Occupancy models derived from forensic and remote camera evidence of bear visitation to carcasses at kill sites identified from 12 GPS‐collared cougars indicated that the probability of bear presence at kill sites decreased when cougars foraged on small‐bodied prey, increased in summer compared with autumn, and declined with increasing housing density. Indeed, the top model indicated a multiplicative decrease of 500 in the odds of black bear carcass visitation for every additional house per hectare on the landscape, supporting the refuge hypothesis. These results suggest that residential development has the potential to alter intraguild relationships among large carnivores, even at modest levels where robust carnivore populations persist on the landscape, and may alter scavenger dynamics at carcasses where black bear presence is virtually eliminated.
Conformational flexibility‐triggered differential sensing and metric for the naturally abundant transition metal ions by a pyrrole‐functional Schiff base
Authors: Bar Arun Kumar , Deb Nabanita , Jayaprakasan Chitra Thottingal , Raju Gembali , Singh Vaibhav
Published: February 2025

A hitherto unknown Schiff base ligand (H3L) is synthesized upon condensing benzhydrazide with 2,5‐diformylpyrrole in 2:1 molar ratio. H3L displays well‐resolved UV‐vis absorption bands with high molar extinction coefficients. It also exhibits photoluminescence (PL) with large Stokes shifts and high emission intensities. H3L is found to be a remarkable chemosensor for commonly abundant transition metal ions through its UV‐vis and photoluminiscence (PL) spectral change. It can not only detect and quantify various transition metal ions but can also distinguish them from their mixtures. Detailed computational analyses revealed that such a unique photophysical characteristic originates from ligand‐centric internal electronic state rearrangement. H3L can switch among an enormously large number of low‐energy‐barrier conformers in its free state. The degree of π‐electron conjugation across the molecular skeleton of H3L is dictated by its conformation. Its UV‐vis/PL spectral signature is subject to an analyte metal ion. Treatment of H3L with a transition metal ion leads to the formation of [2+2] self‐assembled discrete coordination complex, which renders the restriction on the conformational freedom of H3L. The commonly abundant alkali/alkaline earth metal ions and commonly abundant anions are found to cause no‐to‐negligible interference. The chemosensing is affirmed to occur practically instantaneously with excellent limit of detection.
Amphiphilic Tripodal Metalloligands: Synthesis, Coordination Chemistry and Preliminary Catalysis
Authors: Medley Austin W. , Miller Paul D. , Bayse Craig A. , Pike Robert D. , Bender Trandon Allen
Published: February 2025

Triscatecholate binding has been widely studied in the context of biological systems, supramolecular chemistry, and weak aggregate interactions. However, the utilization of the triscatecholate binding motif for the preparation of metalloligands remains unexplored. Herein, we report the synthesis, structural characterization, and functional studies of a triscatecholate ligand with an appended pyridyl residue as a candidate for such applications. Our findings reveal that the selective formation of cis‐triscatecholate‐based metalloligands is influenced by electronic effects on the catecholate anions, enabling the targeted synthesis of Al(III), Ga(III), and In(III) triscatecholate metalloligands capable of binding Zn(II) and Ru(II) at the appended pyridyl moiety for applications in catalysis.
Asymmetric Construction of Acyclic 1,3‐Nonadjacent Stereogenic Centers Containing a Tetrasubstituted Carbon through Diastereoselective Alkylation of Benzyl Sulfone Derivatives
Authors: Ojima Rihaku , Kondoh Azusa , Terada Masahiro
Published: February 2025

A strategy for the asymmetric construction of acyclic 1,3‐nonadjacent stereogenic centers containing a tetrasubstituted carbon has been established, which involves an enantioselective addition reaction and a subsequent chelate‐controlled diastereoselective alkylation reaction. Specifically, the enantioselective addition reaction of α‐thioacetamides with α‐phenyl‐substituted vinyl sulfones under chiral Brønsted base catalysis and the subsequent LDA‐mediated diastereoselective methylation, allylation and benzylation at the α position of the sulfonyl group of the adducts afforded the desired enantio‐enriched products having 1,3‐nonadjacent stereogenic centers containing a tetrasubstituted carbon in a highly stereoselective manner.
Research on Heat Transfer Characteristics Based on Thermal‐Fluid Coupling Analysis of the Magnetic Coupler
Authors: Li Lian‐bo , Zhang Le‐ying
Published: February 2025

Taking the magnetic coupler employed in the power generation device harnessing natural gas pressure energy as the research subject, the heat transfer characteristics of the magnetic coupler and the external flow field under the eddy current effect are exhaustively investigated to address the heating issue caused by that effect. A thermal‐fluid coupling model for the magnetic coupler and its flow field is established. With the eddy current loss on the isolation sleeve regarded as the heat source, the temperature distribution characteristics of each component of the magnetic coupler under the rated operating conditions are simulated. The flow state around the magnetic coupler and the heat transfer features on the outer wall of the isolation sleeve are further analyzed. To address the issues that the air in the gap has difficulty circulating along the axial direction and the temperature of the internal magnets is close to the maximum allowable working temperature, the heat dissipation structure of the magnetic coupler is enhanced by modifying the eccentric distance, increasing the quantity and the diameter of the heat dissipation holes on the external rotor. Eventually, the maximum convective heat transfer coefficient of the outer wall surface of the isolation sleeve is raised from 23.6 W/(m2 °C) to 61.7 W/(m2 °C), and the temperature of the internal magnet is kept below 50.9°C, attaining a favorable heat dissipation effect and meeting the usage requirements.
Comprehensive temporal and spatial analysis of Early Pleistocene drainage patterns on the Swiss Alpine foreland
Authors: Broś Ewelina , Ivy‐Ochs Susan , Pollhammer Thomas , Kober Florian , Grischott Reto , Salcher Bernhard , Nørgaard Jesper , Knudsen Mads F. , Vockenhuber Christof , Christl Marcus , Gautschi Philip , Maden Colin , Ylä‐Mella Lotta , Jansen John D. , Landgraf Angela , Synal Hans‐Arno
Published: February 2025

Deckenschotter are glaciofluvial gravels that cap isolated bedrock plateaus and are largely disconnected from today's local drainage. They were deposited when glaciers from the Alps were first extensive enough to reach the northern Swiss foreland, thus providing a unique record of the foreland landscape and its evolution during the earliest Quaternary glaciations. To decipher this record, we employ two robust methodologies: cosmogenic 26Al/10Be burial dating and GIS‐based topographic analysis. 26Al/10Be burial ages from both new and published sites are calculated using a consistent procedure with the P‐PINI code. Detailed swath projected and local 360° profiles were generated with GIS data in an R‐toolset developed specifically for this study. Integrating results from both methodologies with outcrop sedimentological data, we interpret three main periods of Deckenschotter deposition: 1.3–1.2, 1.1–1.0 and ~0.8 Ma. The interpreted age ranges indicate glaciers must have reached the forelands in response to intensifying climatic cooling across the Mid‐Pleistocene Transition (1.25–0.75 Ma). Deckenschotter outcrops provide a disjointed image of past topography from which we piece together glacial meltwater pathways in each time interval. Between the glacial phases, stepwise incision of 50–100 m occurred as depicted in the projection profiles, with some spatial variability in magnitude of incision. Incision was driven by decreasing sediment supply during glacial terminations, set against a backdrop of minor foreland uplift. While the path of the Aare River has changed little since the Early Pleistocene, the Rhine River has radically altered its path. Initially a tributary of the Danube River with northward flow, glacial modification to topography led to its re‐routing to the west into the lower base‐level Aare River‐Upper Rhine Graben system. Based on our analysis, we estimate this event occurred after ~0.8 Ma.
Plant Metabolic Engineering for Enhanced Nutrition and Food Security During Climate Uncertainty
Authors: Kaya Cengiz
Published: February 2025

In the face of climate change and the increasing problem of food security, plant metabolic engineering stands out as the most promising approach for improving nutritional quality of crops. Techniques used in engineering plant metabolism and the innovations being made are helping to improve the nutrient quality of staple foods. Through this approach, scientists have been able to increase the content of essential nutrients, such as minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and amino acids, to help combat malnutrition and dietary insufficiency in many parts of the world today. The review highlights the genetic and biochemical strategies that can be employed in the management and reprogramming of metabolic pathways to synthesize desired nutrients. This review includes examples of biofortified crops like rice, maize, and potatoes, which have been genetically enhanced to contain higher levels of essential nutrients such as provitamin A, iron, and folate. Furthermore, it examines the application of CRISPR/Cas9 and other advanced gene‐editing tools for precision breeding to improve nutrition. Moreover, the review analyzes strategies to ensure that biofortified crops can withstand various environmental stresses exacerbated by climate change. Combining stress tolerance traits, particularly drought stress, with higher nutritional value is important for improving the quality of crops grown under stress conditions. This review synthesizes recent research findings to highlight the potential of metabolic engineering in enhancing crop nutrition. It also emphasizes the importance of adopting multidisciplinary approaches to address regulatory, economic, and societal challenges in the field. The review also addresses challenges such as regulatory approval, public acceptance, and potential ecological impacts. Ultimately, this review aims to inspire further innovations in plant metabolic engineering as a means of bridging gaps in food security and enhancing global health and well‐being in a rapidly changing world.
Functional Characterization of Glycated Peptide Aggregates in Whey Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Slingerland C. J. , Laats M. , Savelkoul H. F. J. , van Neerven R. J. J. , Teodorowicz M.
Published: February 2025

Heating food proteins promotes a reaction between proteins and sugars called the Maillard reaction (MR). Maillard reaction products (MRPs) have been linked to increased immunogenicity of proteins through interaction with receptors for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). Here, we aimed to characterize the functional properties of whey protein hydrolysates (WPHs) and its' fractions. A partial WPH1 and an extensive WPH2 were size fractionated. The MRPs were detected with anti‐Nε‐carboxymethyllysine (CML) antibody and binding to RAGE was measured using inhibition ELISA. Induction of pro‐inflammatory cytokines was determined in THP‐1‐derived macrophages, and the capacity to induce degranulation of basophils was assessed using FcεRI+ RBL cells. The partial WPH1, but not WPH2, contained high MW fractions (aggregates > 100 kDa) which bound to RAGE and induced the production of IL‐6, IL1‐β, and IL‐8 in THP‐1 macrophages. The aggregates of WPH1, but not the smaller fractions, induced the degranulation of FcεRI+ RBL cells. The presence of high MW glycated aggregates in partial WPHs leads to increased binding to RAGE, production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and basophil degranulation in the presence of whey‐specific IgE. This implies that the safety and functionality of partially hydrolyzed formulas should not be generalized due to their composition and potential immunogenicity of glycated aggregates.
The Chemical Constituents and Anti‐Hyperlipidemia Effect of Salt‐Processed Fenugreek Seed
Authors: Qu Yang , Wang Yi , Xiao Honghe , Jiang Mingyue , Cai Qian , Liu Yi , Zheng Yu , Zhang Baojie
Published: February 2025

The seed of fenugreek (FS) was traditionally used in diets and as a spice in India, as well as medicine in China. It had anti‐diabetic and anti‐hypolipidemic effects. According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, the effects of FS were enhanced after salt processing. But the enhanced effect of salt‐processed fenugreek seed (SFS) on anti‐hyperlipidemia was not yet fully understood. By UPLC‐QTOF‐MS analysis, five flavonoids and six saponins were tentatively identified in SFS. Salt processing increased the dissolution of polysaccharides and trigonelline. FS and SFS significantly improved the serum biochemical indexes, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) of hyperlipidemic rats, promoted the excretion of TC and total bile acid (TBA), and downregulated aspartate aminotransferase (AST). According to the results of factor analysis, FS and SFS restored the severity of hyperlipidemia to a similar extent, and SFS enhanced the excretion of cholesterol more significantly. FS and SFS reduced the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B), which was upregulated in HFD group. Additionally, SFS significantly increased the abundance of Ruminococcus_1, which was negatively correlated with blood lipid levels. Thus, to regulate gut microbiota and promote the excretion of cholesterol were the mechanisms of the effects of SFS on hyperlipidemia. The higher amounts of total polysaccharides and trigonelline in SFS than in FS led to their different effects.