bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nickel‐Catalyzed Selective Reduction of Carbon Monoxide with Magnesium Alkyl Compounds
Authors: Wang Mengwei , Cai Yanping , Rajeshkumar Thayalan , Maron Laurent , Xu Xin
Published: January 2025

Research on CO activation and homologation is pivotal for promoting sustainable chemistry and the construction of Cn molecular blocks. This work reports the nickel‐catalyzed reduction of CO by magnesium alkyl compounds utilizing a bimetallic Mg/Ni synergistic strategy. The exposure of β‐diketiminato ligand‐supported magnesium monoalkyl compounds LMgR (L=[(DippNCMe)2CH]−, Dipp=2,6‐iPr2C6H3; R=nBu, CH3, C5H9) to 1 bar of CO in the presence of 10 mol % Ni(COD)2 (COD: 1,5‐cyclooctadiene) selectively afforded the CO single‐insertion product [LMg(CHO)C5H8], the dimerization product [(LMg)2(μ‐C2O2)(CH3)2], and the linear trimerization product [(LMg)2(μ‐C3O3)(nBu)2], respectively, depending on the R group. In addition, transition metal‐stabilized carbene species resulted from CO activation were successfully isolated through stoichiometric control experiments. The profiles of CO trimerization and dimerization were further elucidated by density functional theory calculations, which confirmed the crucial roles of Mg/Ni cooperation and carbene species in the current reaction.
The Neurodiversity Framework in Medicine: On the Spectrum
Authors: Miranda‐Ojeda Raul , Wickramasinghe Anuksha , Ntolkeras Georgios , Castanho Isabel , Yassin Walid
Published: January 2025

The term “neurodiversity” refers to the natural heterogeneity in human neurological functioning, which includes neurodevelopmental differences and other mental health conditions (e.g., autism spectrum disorder [ASD], attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], dyslexia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression). This new viewpoint has significant consequences for the future of medicine, specifically in psychiatry, neurology, and neurodevelopmental medicine, as it undermines established notions of these conditions as disorders/diseases that may be healed or corrected. The neurodiversity approach, on the other hand, acknowledges these divergences as natural variations, calling for tailored support and interventions that accommodate individual needs. Neurodiversity could impact current medical perspectives by supporting a shift from pathology to identity. Rather than focusing on the difficulties associated with a specific ailment, the neurodiversity approach stresses the strengths and distinct perspectives that come with neurodivergent identities. This shift has significant consequences for research and therapy by fostering the development of innovative treatments aimed at increasing quality of life and improving functional results. This new perspective advocates including neurodivergent people in all sectors of society, including research, clinical practice, and policymaking, by recognizing, accepting, and integrating natural variances in brain functioning. In this article, we review the development of the neurodiversity movement and propose “The Neurodiversity Framework in Medicine,” which challenges traditional views by recognizing neurological differences as natural variations, advocating for inclusive, person‐centered approaches in healthcare.
Anode‐Free Design with Pelletized Aluminium Current Collector Enables High‐Energy‐Density Sodium All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Liao Xingshu , Liu Dan , Liu Jinping
Published: January 2025

A commentary on an anode‐free cell design with electrochemically stable sodium borohydride solid electrolyte and pelletized aluminium current collector for sodium all‐solid‐state batteries is presented. First, the viable strategies for implementing anode‐free configuration utilizing solid‐state electrolytes are briefly reviewed. Then, the remarkable work of Meng et al. on designing an anode‐free sodium all‐solid‐state battery is elucidated. Finally, the significance of Meng's work is discussed.
Wavelet‐Based Stochastic Model for the Generation of Fully Nonstationary Bidirectional Seismic Accelerograms
Authors: Yanni Hera , Fragiadakis Michalis , Mitseas Ioannis P.
Published: January 2025

A new stochastic methodology is proposed for the generation of bidirectional horizontal components of artificial, fully nonstationary, site‐ and spectrum‐compatible seismic accelerograms through a nonseparable process. The model operates in the time‐frequency domain and combines spectral representation techniques with signal processing tools. The basis of the methodology involves the generation of spectrum‐compatible stationary artificial accelerogram signals whose nonstationarity is then modeled with a time‐frequency modulating function that is based on a seed ground motion record. At the core of the proposed methodology lies the use of the Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT). Specifically, the CWT method is used to perform time‐frequency analysis and to define the nonstationary component. The proposed methodology provides any required number of seismic accelerograms whose temporal and spectral modulation is consistent with the characteristics of the site of interest. Furthermore, the model is extended to the case of pairs of bidirectional horizontal components. This is accomplished by probabilistically generating two orthogonal spectra whose geometric mean spectrum is compatible with a target spectrum. This procedure also takes into account the correlation structure of spectral acceleration pairs in orthogonal directions at different periods based on empirical models. The bidirectional components are then generated with the proposed site and spectrum‐based methodology. An online tool that implements the proposed methodology is freely provided.
Knowledge and Awareness of Pre‐Exposure Prophylaxis Among Men in Sub‐Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Badru Oluwaseun , Hlongwa Mbuzeleni , Adeagbo Oluwafemi Atanda
Published: January 2025

Introduction

About 39.9 million people were living with HIV as of 2023, and HIV is more prevalent in sub‐Saharan Africa. Pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective in HIV prevention. Despite the efficacy of PrEP, many persons, including men, do not have adequate knowledge and awareness of PrEP, and reviews on knowledge and awareness among men are scarce. This review aims to assess and synthesize the knowledge and awareness of PrEP among persons assigned as males at birth in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Methods and Analysis

The proposed scoping review will be conducted in accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR): Checklist and Explanation. The following information sources will be searched to retrieve relevant studies for this review: CINAHL, MEDLINE (Ovid), PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. Google Scholar, The Union Catalogue of Theses and Dissertations (UCTD) and SA ePublications via SABINET Online, WorldCat Dissertations and Theses via OCLC, ResearchGate, and American Doctoral Dissertations via EBSCOhost. All study designs, except existing reviews, will be included. All screenings (abstract screening and full‐text screening) and data extraction will be conducted independently by two reviewers. Quantitative findings will be presented with frequency and percentages, while qualitative thematic analysis will be used to analyze qualitative findings.

Conclusion

This study will map out studies on knowledge and awareness of PrEP among men in sub‐Saharan Africa. The results of this review will give insights into what men in sub‐Saharan Africa know about PrEP, which can inform future interventions.
A Display Screen With Controlled Electroluminescence
Authors: Graff Herman , Martel Richard
Published: January 2025

This paper describes a two‐electrode electroluminescent display screen which possesses the special property of controlled persistence. The simple multilayered structure of the screen is compared with the complicated structure of the prior art. The electro‐optical performance characteristics of a typical screen are given. In general, the screen's light output is excited by incident ultraviolet radiation and is quenched by infrared energy. The persistence of the electroluminescent light output is a function of such parameters as material choice and intensity and background radiation level, and applied voltage and frequency. The latter two parameters are used to control the persistence of any given screen. Persistence times ranging from seconds to more than an hour are achieved. Screens are provided with characteristics to accept inputs from an electromechanically controlled light source or from an optic fiber‐faced CRT.
IBM Graphic Display System
Authors: Houldin Russell J.
Published: January 2025

Computer displays with graphic capabilities have added a new dimension to data processing by making information more accessible and more easily assimilated. Summaries, graphs and charts can be quickly retrieved and viewed on many screens simultaneously. Several of the more advanced displays are beginning to link the creativity of man and the calculating power of the computer for design applications.

The IBM Graphic Displays are among such versatile systems extending the data processing power of IBM System/360 to handle graphic and design information in scientific, engineering and management applications.

Computer‐programmed line drawings and alphanumerics are stored in a local display buffer and displayed on a 21‐inch CRT. Alphanumeric information can be originated or modified off‐line from the computer by a keyboard. Applica. tion‐oriented instructions can be sent to the computer by an overlay‐coded Programmed Function Keyboard. A light pen gives the operator detection, tracking and sketching capabilities.

The display systems are available in models for single or multiple console installations. Multiple installations use control units, each attaching up to four display consoles.
Lycopene Ameliorates Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Rats by Inhibiting Ovarian Ferroptosis Through Activation of the AMPK/Nrf2 Pathway
Authors: Wang Kexin , Wang Lin , Wu Chengyong , Chen Hongxiang , Cai Donghui , Lu Linglan , Liu Xuli , Jiao Zhen
Published: January 2025

Lycopene (LYC) is an extremely powerful antioxidant with the potential to treat a range of diseases and to inhibit ferroptosis. This research aims to elucidate how LYC impacts polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and the action mechanisms. A PCOS rat model was constructed by injecting DHEA. Different doses of LYC were injected intraperitoneally in PCOS rats, the estrous cycle was recorded. The histopathological damage of ovary in PCOS rats was observed by HE staining, testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were examined by ELISA kits. Transmission electron microscopy, prussian blue staining, biochemical kits to determine ferroptosis. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot to assess the levels of ferroptosis‐related and AMPK/Nrf2 pathway‐related proteins to explore whether LYC affects ferroptosis in PCOS through this pathway. PCOS rats had significantly higher body weights, ovarian weights and ovarian indices, and disorganized estrous cycles, which were dose‐dependently ameliorated by LYC. In addition, LYC significantly ameliorated the histopathological damage of ovary in PCOS rats and restored the normal secretion of T, E2, LH, and FSH. LYC attenuates iron deposition in PCOS ovarian tissues, reduces iron and ROS levels, and inhibits ferroptosis. Notably, LYC activated the AMPK/Nrf2 pathway, and AMPK inhibitor intervention attenuated the therapeutic effect of LYC in PCOS rats, suggesting that LYC acts through the AMPK/Nrf2 pathway. LYC attenuates estrous cycle disruption, ameliorates pathological impairments, and inhibits ferroptosis in PCOS rats by modulating the AMPK/Nrf2 pathway.
Private Information in Mergers and Acquisitions: Non‐Deal Roadshows, Value Creation, and Financing Choices
Authors: Howell Dylan A.
Published: January 2025

This study explores the relationship between non‐deal roadshows (NDRs), the medium of exchange used in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and the value created by these significant corporate events. NDRs can reduce asymmetric information, which is a significant driver of merger announcement returns, the choice of merger financing, and the acquisition bid premium. I show that NDR activity is important in explaining the cross‐sectional variation of the excess returns around M&As and the acquisition bid premium. NDRs are also significant to understanding the medium of exchange, and their relevance is more pronounced when the firms involved have higher levels of asymmetric information and uncertainty. My findings suggest that NDRs convey relevant information about acquiring and target firms in M&A transactions. This paper identifies and measures distinct firm‐specific outcomes of NDR activity that had yet to be studied.
Mechanism of the Non‐Kasha Fluorescence in Pyrene
Authors: Majumdar Sourav , Grotjahn Robin , Rajabi Ahmadreza , Feng Bibo , Mohanam Luke Nambi , Phun Gabriel S. , Lutfi Nicolas , Khan Mohammad , Rappoport Dmitrij , Furche Filipp
Published: January 2025

The high‐energy shoulder in the gas‐phase fluorescence emission spectrum of pyrene is a well‐known example of non‐Kasha emission. We comparatively assess two approaches, vibronic perturbation theory and nonadiabatic dynamics, in their ability to predict and explain the gas‐phase fluorescence spectrum of pyrene. While both methods qualitatively capture the non‐Kasha emission, they differ in their computational requirements, accuracy, and physical interpretation. Vibronic perturbation theory and nonadiabatic dynamics are complementary and can be combined in a two‐step approach to non‐Kasha fluorescence.
Angiotensin 1–7 Attenuates the Development of Ischemia–Reperfusion‐Induced Arrhythmia in Rats: Electrophysiology, Molecular, and Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Boushra Amy F. , Soliman Ghada Farouk , Ibrahim Walaa , Rashed Laila Ahmed , El‐Meguid Eman Ali Abd , Abouelela Yara S. , Yasin Noha A. E. , Gomaa Enas , Ali Esraa , Bastawy Nermeen
Published: January 2025

Arrhythmia is a common and serious global health problem, contributing to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The cardiac muscle is susceptible to ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury, which can lead to fatal arrhythmias during open‐heart surgery. We investigated the potential prophylactic effect of angiotensin 1–7 (Ang 1–7) using an in vivo rat model of I/R injury and examined the underlying mechanisms. Rats were treated with Ang 1–7 (1 mg/kg, IP) 30 min before the surgical procedures. Twenty‐four rats were equally divided into four groups: sham control, sham‐treated with Ang 1–7, I/R injury group, and I/R injury group treated with Ang 1–7. In vivo I/R injury was induced by clamping the left coronary artery for 30 min, followed by 1 hour of reperfusion. The I/R group showed abnormal electrophysiological changes and arrhythmic episodes during electrocardiography (ECG) recording, increased oxidative stress, downregulation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPAR‐γ), and upregulation of C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL16) expression in cardiac tissue, which increased cardiac NF‐kB expression and IL‐17 levels. Moreover, I/R injury caused significant histological disruption and increased cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) and heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) immunoreactions, correlating with the extent of cardiac damage. However, preoperative Ang 1–7 administration significantly improved the electrophysiological, biochemical, and histopathological changes induced by I/R injury. This study demonstrated that Ang 1–7 exerted protective anti‐arrhythmic, anti‐inflammatory, and pro‐healing effects by upregulating PPAR‐γ and downregulating CXCL16, IL‐17, and NF‐kB pathways, suggesting it is a promising cardioprotective agent for preventing arrhythmias induced by I/R injury.
Evaluating the Potential of Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping for Detecting Iron Deposition of Renal Fibrosis in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Zha Tingting , Zhang Zhiping , Pan Liang , Peng Lei , Du Yanan , Wu Peng , Chen Jie , Xing Wei
Published: January 2025

Background

As ferroptosis is a key factor in renal fibrosis (RF), iron deposition monitoring may help evaluating RF. The capability of quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) for detecting iron deposition in RF remains uncertain.

Purpose

To investigate the potential of QSM to detect iron deposition in RF.

Study Type

Animal model.

Animal Model

Eighty New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into control (N = 10) and RF (N = 70) groups, consisting of baseline, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days (N = 12 in each), and longitudinal (N = 10) subgroups. RF was induced via unilateral renal arteria stenosis.

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T, QSM with gradient echo, arterial spin labeling with gradient spin echo.

Assessment

Bilateral kidney QSM values (χ) in the cortex (χCO) and outer medulla (χOM) were evaluated with histopathology.

Statistical Tests

Analysis of variance, Kruskal–Wallis, Spearman's correlation, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). P < 0.05 was significant.

Results

In fibrotic kidneys, χCO decreased at 7 days ([−6.69 ± 0.98] × 10−2 ppm) and increased during 14–28 days ([−1.85 ± 2.11], [0.14 ± 0.58], and [1.99 ± 0.60] × 10−2 ppm, respectively), while the χOM had the opposite trend. Both significantly correlated with histopathology (|r| = 0.674–0.849). AUC of QSM for distinguishing RF degrees was 0.692–0.993. In contralateral kidneys, the χCO initially decreased ([−6.67 ± 0.84] × 10−2 ppm) then recovered to baseline ([−4.81 ± 0.89] × 10−2 ppm), while the χOM at 7–28 days ([2.58 ± 1.40], [2.25 ± 1.83], [2.49 ± 2.11], [2.43 ± 1.32] × 10−2 ppm, respectively) were significantly higher than baseline ([0.54 ± 0.18] × 10−2 ppm).

Data Conclusion

Different iron deposition patterns were observed in RF with QSM values, suggesting the potential of QSM for iron deposition monitoring in RF.

Plain Language Summary

Renal fibrosis (RF) is a common outcome in most kidney diseases, leading to scarring and loss of kidney function. Increasing evidence suggests that abnormal iron metabolism plays an important role in RF. This study used a technique called quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) to measure kidney iron levels in rabbits with RF. Specifically, rabbits with advanced RF exhibited higher kidney iron concentrations, and moderate to strong correlations between QSM values and histopathology demonstrated that QSM could accurately detect changes in iron levels and assess RF severity. Overall, QSM shows promise as a tool for monitoring iron deposition in RF progression.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Vacuolated Parabasal Cells in Papanicolaou Smears Are Cellular Changes Caused by Human Papillomavirus 16 Infection
Authors: Mizuno Shuichi , Okayama Kaori , Misawa Yukimi , Honda Saeka , Settsu Rei , Shinohara Ruku , Ishii Yasuyoshi , Fujii Masahiko , Oda Mizue , Okodo Mitsuaki
Published: January 2025

In cervical cancer screening, cytology is used as a triage test to refer high‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV)‐positive women for colposcopy, but its accuracy is inadequate. The present study aimed to demonstrate that the presence of atypical cells with large vacuoles in the cytoplasm of parabasal cells, referred to as vacuolated parabasal cells (VPCs), which are observed in the Pap smears of HPV‐positive women, is associated with specific HPV genotypes. Among 2175 patients, 310 with a single HR‐HPV infection and cytological diagnosis of high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) or atypical squamous cells not excluding HSIL (ASC‐H) were included, of which 86 were infected with HPV16. Biopsy results revealed that 69 (80.2%) patients had cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Grade 2 or higher (CIN2+). VPCs were found in 47 (54.7%) of HPV16‐infected cases, indicating a significant increase of VPCs in HPV16‐infected cases (p < 0.01). Episomal HPV16 load was quantified in 142 VPCs and 156 HSIL (ASC‐H) cells using liquid‐based cytology samples from five patients, with a median of 987 copies in VPCs, significantly higher than those in HSIL (ASC‐H) cells (176 copies; p < 0.001). VPCs in Pap specimens were identified not only as cells altered by HPV16 infection but also as CIN2+‐derived cells and HPV16‐producing cells.
Integrating Transfer Learning and GPU Acceleration in MMIC Design: A Neural Network Approach for a 6–13 GHz LNA
Authors: Wu Yifan , Wang Junchao , Chen Jiayu , You Bin , Liu Jun
Published: January 2025

The design of monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) is a laborious process that involves exploring a vast design space, requiring multiple iterations to identify the optimal circuit design. In this research, we propose a design approach that combines GPU‐based high‐performance computing and transfer learning techniques. To improve modularity and reusability, we decompose the MMIC into multiple substructures and then combine these substructures to restore the overall circuit structure and performance. To achieve this, we adopted schematic simulation, which is more time‐efficient, to construct a data set and pre‐train the circuit substructure models. We then fine‐tune the pre‐trained models using a limited amount of electromagnetic (EM) simulation data, aiming to obtain layout‐level subcircuit models. Leveraging the parallel processing capabilities of neural network models, we employ GPU to conduct extensive exploration and design within the circuit design space, utilizing cascade connection theory to optimize the performance of the complete circuit. We apply this methodology to a low‐noise amplifier (LNA) circuit operating in the 6–13 GHz frequency range, achieving favorable outcomes.
Model‐based perfusion reconstruction with time separation technique in cone‐beam CT dynamic liver perfusion imaging
Authors: Haseljić Hana , Frysch Robert , Kulvait Vojtěch , Werncke Thomas , Brüsch Inga , Speck Oliver , Schulz Jessica , Manhart Michael , Rose Georg
Published: January 2025

Background

The success of embolization, a minimally invasive treatment of liver cancer, could be evaluated in the operational room with cone‐beam CT by acquiring a dynamic perfusion scan to inspect the contrast agent flow.

Purpose

The reconstruction algorithm must address the issues of low temporal sampling and higher noise levels inherent in cone‐beam CT systems, compared to conventional CT.

Methods

Therefore, a model‐based perfusion reconstruction based on the time separation technique (TST) was applied. TST uses basis functions to model time attenuation curves. These functions are either analytical or based on prior knowledge (PK), extracted using singular value decomposition of the classical CT perfusion data of animal subjects. To explore how well the PK can model perfusion dynamics and what the potential limitations are, the dynamic cone‐beam CT (CBCT) perfusion scan was simulated from a dynamic CT perfusion scan under different noise levels. The TST method was compared to static reconstruction.

Results

It was demonstrated on this simulated dynamic CBCT perfusion scan that a set consisting of only four basis functions results in perfusion maps that preserve relevant information, denoise the data, and outperform static reconstruction under higher noise levels. TST with PK would not only outperform static reconstruction but also the TST with analytical basis functions. Furthermore, it has been shown that only eight CBCT rotations, unlike previously assumed ten, are sufficient to obtain the perfusion maps comparable to the reference CT perfusion maps. This contributes to saving dose and reconstruction time. The real dynamic CBCT perfusion scan, reconstructed under the same conditions as the simulated scan, shows potential for maintaining the accuracy of the perfusion maps. By visual inspection, the embolized region was matching to that in corresponding CT perfusion maps.

Conclusions

CBCT reconstruction of perfusion scan data using the TST method has shown promising potential, outperforming static reconstructions and potentially saving dose by reducing the necessary number of acquisition sweeps. Further analysis of a larger cohort of patient data is needed to draw final conclusions regarding the expected advantages of the TST.
Activation of Proteolysis During Oocyte In Vitro Maturation
Authors: Tepekoy Filiz , Bulut Berk , Karaoz Erdal
Published: January 2025

In vitro maturation (IVM) is a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) applied to obtain mature oocytes in culture. Decline in IVM success rates by age has led consideration of novel approaches based on cellular dynamics. Our aim was to achieve proteostasis in old bovine oocytes from 13 to 16‐year‐old bovine with a lower potential for fertilization. Lysosomal activation was achieved through increasing concentrations of proton pump activators PIP2 (0.1, 0.5, 1, and 5 μM), PMA (0.1, 1, 10, and 50 μM), and DOG (0.1, 1, 10, and 50 μM) at 6, 12, 18, and 24 h of IVM in old bovine oocytes. Morphological analysis was performed and IVM rates were determined. DQ‐Red BSA was applied to live oocytes to determine proteolytic activation while lysosome density was determined by Lysotracker probe. Protein carbonylation was detected through oxyblot analysis. Polar body extrusion (PBE), through which a haploid nonfunctional polar body is released in the perivitelline space after completion of the first meiotic division, was observed in PIP2‐0.1 μM, ‐0.5μM‐6h; PIP2‐5μM‐12h; PMA‐0.1μM‐18h; PIP2‐0.1μM, ‐0.5μM‐24h groups. Oocyte diameter was the highest in DOG‐1μM‐6h, PMA‐0.1μM‐12h, PIP2‐1μM‐18h, and PIP2‐0.5μM‐24h groups. Morphological scores of oocytes were higher in young and old control groups. PIP2, PMA, and DOG affected oocyte quality positively after 6 h of IVM yielding in oocyte scores similar to the control group oocytes. However, they had a negative impact on the oocyte scores in longer periods of IVM, except for lower doses PMA (0.1 and 1 μM) at 12 h and PIP2 (0.5 μM) and PMA (0.1 μM) at 18 h, which were able to maintain the scores relatively closer to the control oocytes. Proteolytic activation was achieved in all groups at 6 h of culture. At all other time points PIP2 and PMA groups showed a better response to proteolytic activation. Lysosome density was increased in PIP2‐5μM‐6h; PIP2‐0.1μM, ‐1μM‐12h; PIP2‐1μM, ‐5μM‐18h as well as PMA‐0.1μM‐6h; PMA‐1μM, ‐10μM‐12h; PMA‐1μM‐18h; DOG‐50μM‐6h and DOG‐0.1μM‐12h. Protein carbonylation was the lowest in PIP2‐0.1 μM groups at 12, 18, and 24 h. This study suggests that proton pump activators PIP2 and PMA was found to have a positive impact on IVM in terms of both morphological scores and proteolytic activation in a time and dose dependant manner.
Synthesis of Carbon and Gold Nanoparticles in Ionic Liquid Crystals: Structural Properties and Electrical Behavior for Electro‐Optical Sensors
Authors: Zhulai Dmytro , Boichuk Nazariy , Pustovyi Denys , Kovalchuk Oleksandr , Garbovskiy Yuriy , Klimusheva Gertruda , Mirnaya Tatyana , Yaremchuk Galina , Vitusevich Svetlana
Published: January 2025

The structural and electrical properties of ionic metal‐alkanoate nanocomposites obtained based on a cadmium octanoate matrix with individual carbon and gold nanoparticles (NPs) as well as their combination are studied. Carbon and gold NPs were chemically synthesized within the smectic A phase of Cd+2(C7H15COO−)2, which served as a well‐ordered nanoreactor. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) data provide information on NPs location and allow the estimation of the sizes of the synthesized NPs inside the glassy liquid crystalline matrix. It is shown that the size and shape of the NPs were precisely controlled during synthesis, resulting in highly stable and organized nanocomposites. The electrical characteristics were studied in a wide temperature range corresponding to different phase states of the nanocomposites. We compared the electrical properties of both pure matrix and nanocomposites with carbon and gold NPs to identify the potential of the nanocomposite materials for designing new sensor structures. Notably, the nanocomposites exhibited anisotropic conductivity, highlighting the structural anisotropy of the material. In addition, using NPs allows fine‐tuning of the electrical properties of a metal‐alkanoate host matrix. The obtained nanocomposites open prospects for the development of electro‐optical sensors with high sensitivity and specificity that can be used to detect a variety of chemical and physical parameters including temperature, composition of substances, and environment.
Trajectories of general and central obesity beyond middle age in relation to late‐life cognitive decline and dementia
Authors: Liang Zhengting , Qin Huibo , Su Binbin , Bao Yanping , Vitiello Michael V. , Hu Gang , Wang Yunhe
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective was to evaluate the longitudinal patterns of central and general obesity, identify their genetic and behavioral risk determinants, and investigate the association of distinct obesity trajectories beyond middle age with subsequent cognitive decline and the risk of developing dementia in late life.

Methods

Using a nationally representative, longitudinal, community‐based cohort, we examined trajectory patterns of obesity over a 14‐year span beyond middle age employing latent mixture modeling. We then evaluated their relationship with subsequent cognitive decline through linear mixed models and with the risk of developing dementia using Cox models, adjusting for confounding variables.

Results

Among the 4751 eligible participants (mean age, 58.7 [SD 8.1] years; 57% female), our analysis identified five distinct BMI trajectories and four WC trajectories spanning a 14‐year period. In comparison with individuals in the low‐stable BMI group, characterized by a consistent and healthy body weight (range, 22.8–22.9 kg/m2), those in the high‐stable group, maintaining a stable obesity status (range, 34.3–35.4 kg/m2), exhibited an elevated risk of developing dementia (odds ratio [OR], 1.43; 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.00) and experienced a more accelerated cognitive decline over 6 years (difference in 6‐year decline, −0.11 SD [95% CI: −0.18 to −0.03]). Similarly, when compared with participants in the low‐stable WC group, indicating a stable and healthy WC (range, 76–79 cm), those in the high‐increasing WC group, showing an increasing trend (range, 115–122 cm), demonstrated an increased risk of developing dementia (OR, 1.57, 95% CI: 1.01 to 2.49) and experienced a swifter cognitive decline (OR: −0.18 [95% CI: −0.28 to −0.07]).

Conclusions

General and central obesity trajectories beyond midlife with persistently high or increasing patterns were significantly associated with an increased risk of developing cognitive decline and dementia in late life. Longitudinal obesity patterns may assist in precise identification of older adults at risk of developing cognitive impairment for targeted intervention.
Downregulation of AATK enhances susceptibility to ferroptosis by promoting endosome recycling in gefitinib‐resistant lung cancer cells
Authors: Lee Wei‐Chang , Moi Sin‐Hua , Yang Sheau‐Fang , Tseng Ho‐Hsing , Liu Yu‐Peng
Published: January 2025

Ferroptosis has been characterised by disruption of the cell membrane through iron‐related lipid peroxidation. However, regulation of iron homeostasis in lung cancer cells that are resistant to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs) remains unclear. Transcriptome analysis identified a significant downregulation of apoptosis‐associated tyrosine kinase (AATK) mRNA expression in gefitinib‐resistant PC9 (PC9‐GR) cells, which were found to be more susceptible to ferroptosis inducers. An in‐depth analysis of publicly available datasets revealed that downregulation of AATK mRNA was associated with lymph node metastasis and poor prognosis in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Knockdown of AATK‐sensitised PC9, HCC827, and H441 cells to the ferroptosis inducer RSL3, whereas ectopic expression of AATK reduced RSL3‐induced cell death in PC9‐GR and HCC827‐GR cells. Compared to PC9 cells, PC9‐GR cells exhibited higher transferrin uptake, endosome recycling rate, and increased intracellular iron levels. Blocking iron transport reduced RSL3‐induced ferroptosis in PC9‐GR cells. Mechanistic studies showed that AATK localised to both early and recycling endosomes. Knockdown of AATK facilitated endosome recycling and elevated intracellular ferrous iron (Fe2+) levels in PC9 cells. Conversely, ectopic expression of AATK delayed endosome recycling and reduced intracellular Fe2+ levels in PC9‐GR cells. Inhibition of AATK downregulation‐induced iron accumulation decreased RSL3‐induced ferroptosis. Taken together, our study indicates that the downregulation of AATK contributes to endosome recycling and iron accumulation, leading to an increased susceptibility to ferroptosis in EGFR‐TKI‐resistant lung cancer cells. © 2025 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Original Direct Synthesis of Nanostructured MnO2 in Water by Hydroxylated Ammonium‐Assisted Redox Process
Authors: Delaunay Oriane , Denicourt‐Nowicki Audrey , Roucoux Alain
Published: January 2025

Well‐defined MnO2 nanoworms are easily synthesized in water through an original redox process, using a cheap KMnO4 precursor and a lipophilic hydroxylated quaternary ammonium. This phase‐transfer agent can act as both a reducing and protective agent to avoid particles agglomeration. The concomitant formation of a zwitterionic betaine derivative is evidenced in this surfactant‐assisted process. Interestingly, these nanomaterials demonstrate pertinent potentialities in cycloalkanes oxidation with a selectivity toward the corresponding ketones in neat water.
Characterization of resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis toxin Cry1Ac in Crocidosema sp. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) from Brazil
Authors: Steinhaus Eduardo A , Reis Alexandre C , Palharini Ramon B , Godoy Daniela N , Dallanora Arthur , Diniz Luiz H M , Warpechowski Luiz F , Horikoshi Renato J , Ovejero Ramiro F L , Berger Geraldo U , Dourado Patrick M , Martinelli Samuel , Head Graham P , Bernardi Oderlei
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Crocidosema aporema (Walsingham 1914) has historically been the main bud borer species in soybean in Brazil; however, a recent study reported that this species is not C. aporema but an undescribed species. In recent seasons, injury by Crocidosema sp. has been reported in soybean expressing the Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) toxin Cry1Ac. In this study, we investigated the genetic basis of Cry1Ac resistance and assessed the fitness costs of resistance in a field‐derived Cry1Ac‐resistant Crocidosema sp. strain selected through an F2 screen.

RESULTS

The Cry1Ac‐resistant strain of Crocidosema sp. developed from neonate to pupae fed on Cry1Ac soybean leaves and adults produced viable offspring. The resistance ratio to Cry1Ac in this strain was >500 000‐fold relative to the susceptible strain. Results from leaf and diet‐overlay bioassays indicated that the inheritance pattern of Cry1Ac resistance in Crocidosema sp. is sex‐linked, with a lethal dose compensation in the F1 progeny from R♂ × S♀ (making resistance incompletely recessive), whereas the F1 progeny from R♀ × S♂ had complete mortality on Cry1Ac soybean (making resistance completely recessive). The mortality of backcrosses on Cry1Ac soybean varied significantly, suggesting that the resistance is controlled by multiple genes. Life‐history results revealed that the Cry1Ac‐resistant strain had lower pupal weight, reproductive performance and population growth on non‐Bt soybean compared with the susceptible strain.

CONCLUSIONS

The inheritance patterns of Cry1Ac resistance in Crocidosema sp. are sex‐linked, incompletely or completely recessive depending on the direction of the reciprocal cross, polygenic and associated with fitness cost. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Limits of Chordal Graphs With Bounded Tree‐Width
Authors: Castellví Jordi , Stufler Benedikt
Published: January 2025

We study random ‐connected chordal graphs with bounded tree‐width. Our main results are scaling limits and quenched local limits.
Constructing n/n− Type Perovskite Homojunctions to Achieve High‐Efficiency and Stable Printable Mesoscopic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Changqing , Liu Wenfeng , Chen Yiwen , Zhang Yang , Guo Rongrong , Yang Weihuang , Liu Yan , Zeng Qin , Li Xing , Xiong Jian , Huang Yu , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2025

In recent years, carbon‐based printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells (p‐MPSCs) without hole transport layers have garnered considerable interest because of their outstanding benefits in terms of stability and cost. However, the use of carbon electrodes instead of hole transport materials and noble metal electrodes leads to energy level mismatch, which limits the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of p‐MPSCs. In this work, a molecular doping strategy is proposed employing cyclopentylmethanamine to passivate surface and subsurface crystal defects in perovskite layers while inducing an energy shift toward the p‐type in the perovskite region within carbon electrodes. This approach facilitates the formation of a perovskite homojunction at carbon micro‐interfaces between carbon electrodes and perovskites. Results demonstrate that the formation of this homojunction optimizes the internal energy level alignment of devices, thereby increasing driving force for hole transfer to carbon electrodes. Ultimately, the devices optimized through this strategy increase the PCE from 17.50% to 19.50% while retaining over 92% of the initial PCE after over 150 days in air ambiance. This study provides a straightforward and effective approach for designing high‐efficiency and stable p‐MPSCs.
Elucidating Mesostructural Effects on Thermal Conductivity for Enhanced Insulation Applications
Authors: Ren Tingting , Chen Zhenxiang , Chen Jiahao , Huang Xirui , Li Xingjin , Zhang Jie , Lu Qianqian , Hung Chin‐Te , Zhao Tiancong , Wang Min , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: January 2025

Thermal management is a key link in improving energy utilization and preparing insulation materials with excellent performance is the core technological issue. Complex and irregular pore structures of insulation materials hinder the exploration of structure‐property relationships and the further promotion of material performance. Ordered mesoporous silica (OMS) is a kind of porous material with ordered frameworks. This work elucidates the effects of ordered porous architecture on the thermal conductivity of mesoporous silica. Herein, two typical OMS, SBA‐15 and SBA‐16, characterized by well‐defined porous structures with distinct spatial orientations are synthesized to study the relevance between structure and thermal conductivity. Compared to the 3D cubic mesoporous structure of SBA‐16, the 2D hexagonal structure of SBA‐15 exhibits anisotropic effects that restrict both solid and gaseous conduction, thereby providing better thermal insulating. Due to the influence of porosity, the thermal conductivity is found to decrease strongly with increasing pore size and decreasing wall thickness. Moreover, OMS composite aerogels with outstanding thermal insulation, mechanical performance, and hydrophobicity are fabricated through incorporating OMS into cellulose nanofibers (CNF). Consequently, this work contributes to a deeper understanding of heat transfer in OMS and provides an idea for designing OMS‐based composite materials, thereby advancing their potential applications.
Deep‐Learning‐Enabled Fast Raman Identification of the Twist Angle of Bi‐Layer Graphene
Authors: Chen Yangbo , Li Cheng , Liu Shan , Gao Shikun , Huang Chenyi , Yu Xin , Xu Xiangrui , Ke Haibo , Xue Dezhen , Yu Gui , Liu Zhe , Dai Mengyan , Zhang Xueao
Published: January 2025

Twisted bilayer graphene (TBG) has drawn considerable attention due to its angle‐dependent electrical, optical, and mechanical properties, yet preparing and identifying samples at specific angles on a large scale remains challenging and labor‐intensive. Here, a data‐driven strategy that leverages Raman spectroscopy is proposed in combination with deep learning to rapidly and non‐destructively decode and predict the twist angle of TBG across the full angular range. By processing high‐dimensional Raman data, the deep learning model extracts hidden information to achieve precise twist angle identification. This approach is further extended to a 2D plane, enabling accurate orientational mapping within individual samples. Through interpretability analysis, the model is validated in conjunction with first‐principles theoretical calculations, ensuring robust and explainable results. This data‐driven methodology not only facilitates efficient TBG characterization but also introduces a broadly applicable framework for studying other angle‐dependent 2D materials, thereby advancing the field of material spectroscopy and analysis.
Ensuring Confidentiality in Supply Chains With an Application to Life‐Cycle Assessment
Authors: Brucker Achim D. , Yalman Sakine
Published: January 2025

Modern supply chains of goods and services rely heavily on close collaborations between the partners within these supply chains. Consequently, there is a demand for IT systems that support collaborations between business partners, for instance, allowing for joint computations for global optimizations (in contrast to local optimizations that each partner can do on their own). Still, businesses are very reluctant to share data or connect their enterprise systems to allow for such joint computation. The topmost factor that businesses name as reason for not collaborating, is their security concern in general and, in particular, the confidentiality of business critical data. While there are techniques (e.g., homomorphic encryption or secure multiparty computation) that allow joint computations and, at the same time, that are protecting the confidentiality of the data that flows into such a joint computation, they are not widely used. One of the main problems that prevent their adoption is their perceived performance overhead. In this paper, we address this problem by an approach that utilized the structure of supply chains by decomposing global computations into local groups, and applying secure multiparty computation within each group. This results in a scalable (resulting in a significant smaller runtime overhead than traditional approaches) and secure (i.e., protecting the confidentiality of data provided by supply chain partners) approach for joint computations within supply chains. We evaluate our approach using life‐cycle assessment (LCA) as a case study. Our experiments show that, for instance, secure LCA computations even in supply chains with 15 partners are possible within less than two minutes, while traditional approaches using secure multiparty computation need more than a day.
Human Dermal Microvascular Arterial and Venous Blood Endothelial Cells and Their Use in Bioengineered Dermo‐Epidermal Skin Substitutes
Authors: Rütsche Dominic , Nanni Monica , Cheng Phil , Caflisch Nicolà , Tastanova Aizhan , Jenni Céline , Levesque Mitchell P. , Moehrlen Ueli , Klar Agnes S. , Biedermann Thomas
Published: January 2025

The bioengineering of vascular networks is pivotal to create complex tissues and organs for regenerative medicine applications. However, bioengineered tissues comprising an arterial and venous plexus alongside a lymphatic capillary network have not been explored yet. Here, scRNA‐seq is first employed to investigate the arterio‐venous endothelial cell marker patterning in human fetal and juvenile skin. Transcriptomic analysis reveals that arterial and venous endothelial cell markers NRP1 (neuropilin 1) and NR2F2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 2 group F member 2) are broadly expressed in fetal and juvenile skin. In contrast, expression of NRP1 and NR2F2 on the protein level is cell‐type specific and is retained in 2D (2‐dimensional) cultures in vitro. Finally, distinct arterial and venous capillaries are bioengineered in 3D (3‐dimensional) hydrogels and rapid anastomosis is demonstrated with the host vasculature in vivo. In summary, the bioengineering of human arterial, venous, and lymphatic capillaries is established, hence paving the way for these cells to be used in regenerative medicine and future clinical applications
Complex Janus MoSSe Nanoscrolls Spontaneously Formed from Flat Nanoflakes: A Theoretical Exploration
Authors: Yang Ruhao , Ye Han , Wang Qi , Liu Yumin , Liu Wenjun , Wu Zhenping
Published: January 2025

Janus transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) monolayers with out‐of‐plane atomic asymmetry have been experimentally observed to scroll into unique 1D nanoscrolls with diverse complex structures, while the underlying mechanism has not been unveiled. In this work, the entire scrolling process of triangular and hexagonal MoSSe nanoflakes is successfully simulated based on molecular dynamics, demonstrating the formation of five distinct nanoscroll structures. From flat configuration, the nanoflakes are released along typical directions (including edge‐to‐vertex, vertex‐to‐vertex, and vertex‐to‐edge) accounting for the time‐dependent break of van der Waals (vdW) interaction between substrate and nanoflakes. Key structural parameters such as inner radii are found to be closely related to the nanoflake shapes, sizes, and release directions. Additionally, the regions with various layer numbers in nanoscrolls are projected on the flat nanoflakes to demonstrate the local contribution to the vdW stacked multilayer structures. For each nanoflake shape and release direction, the quantitative relations between the area of specific layer number and both inner radius and interlayer distance are obtained. The results provide a fundamental understanding of complex nanoscrolls spontaneously formed from Janus TMD nanoflakes.
Mitigating PM2.5 Induced Myocardial Metal Deposition Through Sodium Thiosulfate Resulted in Reduction of Cardiotoxicity and Physiological Recovery From Ischemia–Reperfusion via Mitochondrial Preservation
Authors: Sivakumar Bhavana , Kurian Gino A.
Published: January 2025

The cardiovascular risks linked to PM2.5 include calcification in both vasculature and myocardial tissues, leading to structural changes and functional decline. Through the selection of a clinically proven endogenous agent, sodium thiosulfate (STS), capable of addressing PM2.5 related cardiac abnormalities, we not only address the absence of effective solutions to mitigate PM2.5 toxicity, but also provide evidence for the repurposing potential of STS in ameliorating PM2.5 induced cardiac damage. Female Wistar rats were exposed to PM2.5 (250 μg/m3) for 3 h daily for 21 days. STS was administered thrice weekly for 3 weeks during exposure after which the hearts were excised and mounted on a Langendorff apparatus for induction of ischemia–reperfusion injury (IR). STS administration improved cardiac function in PM2.5 exposed rat hearts, accompanied by increased expression of the master regulator gene PGC1‐α and increased mitochondrial mass. Moreover, STS restored bioenergetic function and balanced mitochondrial fission–fusion dynamics. The beneficial effects of STS were further evidenced by its ability to scavenge metals, thereby reducing heavy metal deposition in mitochondria and alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation. Furthermore, STS facilitated the clearance of damaged mitochondria through mitophagy. Additionally, STS activated the PI3K/AKT/GSK3ß signaling pathway, providing cardio protection against IR injury in PM2.5‐exposed hearts by preserving mitochondrial function. These results underscore the potential therapeutic benefits of STS in mitigating the adverse cardiac effects induced by PM2.5 exposure. The translation of these findings to clinical practice holds promise for the development of targeted interventions aimed at reducing the cardiovascular toxicity associated with PM2.5 exposure.