bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microvascular Coupling in Venous Anastomoses for Head and Neck Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Costantino Andrea , Uralov Daniel , Festa Bianca Maria , Pace Gian Marco , Alamoudi Uthman , Haughey Bruce , Iannella Giannicola , Greco Antonio , Magnuson J. Scott , De Virgilio Armando
Published: February 2025

Objective

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to compare venous couplers and hand‐sewn techniques for venous anastomosis in head and neck reconstruction.

Data Sources

PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus, databases were searched for relevant publications. Additionally, a manual search was performed in Google Scholar and through reference lists.

Review Methods

Retrospective and prospective cohort studies were included. Odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences (MD) were calculated with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each study comparing the 2 groups (coupler vs hand). The inverse variance method was used to combine the effect sizes from the individual studies.

Results

A total of 14,053 patients undergoing 14,270 head and neck free flap reconstructions were included from 52 studies. A total of 6080 flaps were performed using a coupling device for the venous anastomoses, while 8190 flaps were performed with the hand‐sewn technique. No significant difference was found for the venous thrombosis rate (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.65‐1.72), and reoperation rate (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.51‐1.70), but a significantly lower failure rate was measured for the coupler group (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.20‐0.58). A nonsignificant lower operative time was found for venous anastomoses (MD: −20.5, 95% CI: −51.7 to 10.7) and total surgery (MD: −23.7, 95% CI: −344.3 to 296.8) for the coupler group.

Conclusion

Despite the slight advantages observed with venous couplers, the overall outcomes of both techniques are excellent, and the choice of anastomotic technique should be guided by surgeon preference.
A Targeted Congenital Cytomegalovirus Screening Model Using a Customized Electronic Medical Record Dashboard Report
Authors: Kravitz Meryl B. , Raval Dhvanii K. , Lin Juan , Augustine Stelby , Ramdhanie Mahindra , Oyeku Suzette O. , Nemerofsky Sheri L. , Nassar Michel N.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Targeted congenital Cytomegalovirus (cCMV) screening in newborns has been proposed to identify neonates who could benefit from early diagnosis and intervention. Oftentimes, implementation of targeted screening is variable and left to the discretion of individual institutions. This study investigates the utility of a centralized electronic medical record (EMR) dashboard to improve compliance of targeted screening in the inpatient setting.

Study Design

Single center prospective feasibility study

Setting

Tertiary medical center

Methods

A targeted cCMV screening dashboard report was generated weekly using an EMR system. The dashboard screened all births in a large multi‐site medical center for failed neonatal hearing screens and specific high‐risk diagnoses associated with cCMV. Eligible patients requiring further hearing screening or cCMV testing were communicated to inpatient units. Log‐binomial regression analyses were utilized to assess provider‐led cCMV screening performance after the introduction of weekly reports.

Results

From July 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022, 5,866 newborns were screened by the dashboard. Nine‐hundred and eighteen newborns (15.6%) were eligible for testing. Nearly 75% (n = 687) of newborns were tested by inpatient teams prior to report generation. The remaining 25% (n = 231) of eligible newborns were identified by the report but not yet tested by inpatient teams, and subsequently tested. Three of the newborns tested positive for CMV. The rate of eligible newborns appropriately identified by the inpatient teams increased over time (log‐binomial regression coefficient 0.0215, P < .01).

Conclusion

An EMR dashboard to guide targeted cCMV screening can improve testing compliance. This model is promising for large‐scale cCMV screening.
Effects of the Central Unit Structure, Lateral Substitution and Symmetry on the Mesomorphic Behavior of Some Bent‐Core Azoester Derivatives
Authors: Ciobanu Catalina‐Ionica , Epure Elena‐Luiza , Soroaga Laurentiu , Simion Aurel , Lisa Gabriela , Carlescu Irina
Published: February 2025

We report here the synthesis and characterization of some new bent‐core asymmetric compounds derived from resorcinol whose thermal behavior has been analyzed by comparison with their analogs derived from 1,3‐disubstituted benzene and 2,7‐dihydroxynaphthalene containing azoester aromatic units and alkyl chain end. The asymmetric structures contain 4‐(4‐alkyloxyphenylazo)‐benzoyl and 4‐methoxy‐benzoyl or 3‐bromo‐4‐methoxy‐benzoyl as side arms. The investigations have been carried out to reach a better understanding of the structure‐properties relationship in such bent‐shaped compounds. We observed that a change in molecular structure like the nature of the central core, the symmetry of the structure or the presence of polar lateral substituent influence not only liquid crystalline properties, but also the thermal behavior. The thermogravimetric analysis showed that the bent‐core derivatives have a good thermal stability since the degradation of the compounds begins over the isotropization temperature. Theoretical calculations were performed to elucidate the behavior of the compounds. These can assist us in designing new molecules that exhibit specific mesomorphic properties.
Compression and in‐plane shear testing of carbon‐epoxy composites at subzero and elevated temperatures: Experiment and modeling
Authors: Nema Aditya , Penumakala Pavan Kumar , Mallineni Chandra Babu , Adusumalli Ramesh , K Tejasvi , Buragohain Manoj Kumar
Published: February 2025

Mechanical properties of carbon‐epoxy composites are highly affected by the operating temperature. In this study, the effect of temperature on the compressive strength and in‐plane shear strength of composites has been analyzed. The unidirectional composites are processed by filament winding using T700 carbon fiber rovings and two different epoxy resin systems. The compressive strength measured from combined loading compression tests showed a decreasing trend with an increase in temperature. The compressive strength decreased from 700 to 400 MPa when the temperature increased from –20 to 150°C, which represents 54% reduction in strength. The in‐plane shear tests were performed using longitudinal and transverse extensometers and found that shear strength decreased by nearly 50%. Fractography of compression samples revealed that the primary compressive failure mode is micro buckling followed by kinking, at all temperatures. The existing micro mechanical model based on microbuckling and kinking for estimating the compressive strength has been modified to include temperature effects. The key model input parameters are temperature‐dependent resin tensile modulus and in‐plane shear strength. It is found that the modified model will predict the temperature‐dependent compressive strength in the temperature range of −20 to 150°C.

Highlights

Compressive strength decreased from 700 MPa at −20°C to 400 MPa at 150°C.

Microbuckling followed by kinking failure was observed at all temperatures.

In‐plane shear strength decreased from 44 MPa at −20°C to 27 MPa at 150°C.

Resin tensile modulus decreased from 2.5 GPa at −20°C to 0.75 GPa at 150°C.

Analytical model for compressive strength was extended for all temperatures.
Development of a Pregnancy Cohort in Commercial Insurance Claims Data: Evaluation of Deliveries Identified From Inpatient Versus Outpatient Claims
Authors: Kahrs Jacob C. , Nickel Katelin B. , Wood Mollie E. , Dublin Sascha , Durkin Michael J. , Osmundson Sarah S. , Stwalley Dustin , Suarez Elizabeth A. , Butler Anne M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Studies using insurance claims data to identify pregnancies are rarely able to directly assess the validity of the pregnancy/delivery. Inpatient versus outpatient delivery claims may provide different levels of evidence, but more stringent requirements could result in exclusion of true pregnancies. We identified delivery codes from the inpatient and outpatient settings and examined possible confirmatory evidence suggesting that a delivery truly occurred.

Methods

Using a US commercial insurance database (2006–2021), we identified potential pregnancies by presence of delivery claims from a provider and/or facility. We classified deliveries as inpatient (claim date during inpatient admission) or outpatient (claim date not during inpatient admission). We identified possible confirmatory evidence for each delivery including: (1) Presence of both provider and facility delivery codes; (2) presence of both diagnosis and procedure delivery codes; (3) labor and delivery revenue codes; (4) gestational age diagnosis codes; (5) pregnancy‐related care codes; (6) linkage to an infant claim; and (7) infant insurance enrollment and linkage to a birthing parent. We quantified the proportion of deliveries with confirmatory evidence by delivery setting. Among deliveries with ≥ 1 piece of confirmatory evidence, we compared patient characteristics by apparent delivery setting.

Results

Among 4 084 474 delivery episodes, 96.4% were classified as inpatient and 3.6% outpatient. 99.9% of inpatient and 94.0% of outpatient deliveries had ≥ 1 piece of confirmatory evidence. Pregnancy‐related care codes were the most common type of confirmatory evidence (99.0% inpatient, 85.7% outpatient). Deliveries classified as inpatient occurred among patients who were older and more clinically complex (i.e., more pregnancy complications, chronic diseases, and prescription medications).

Conclusions

The vast majority of deliveries had confirmatory evidence regardless of apparent setting. Patient characteristics differed by delivery setting. Inclusion of apparent outpatient deliveries may increase the sample size of the study population and improve the generalizability of study results.
Home‐Based Physiotherapy Programme Reduces Hospital Stay and Costs in Cardiac Surgery. A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Montero‐Cámara Jorge , Ferrer‐Sargues Francisco José , Peredo David Cuesta , Cabello Adrián Sarria , Rovira María José Segrera , Calabuig Juan Antonio Margarit , Valtueña‐Gimeno Noemí , Pardo Juan , Sánchez‐Sánchez María Luz
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

Cardiac surgery enhances cardiovascular disease (CVD) patient survival rates, and the fast‐track protocol can reduce complications, hospital length of stay (HLOS) and associated costs. However, there is no evidence on the effectiveness of unsupervised physiotherapy programmes in reducing HLOS and postoperative pulmonary complications in patients undergoing fast‐track surgery. The study aimed to determine if a pre‐surgical respiratory programme reduces intensive care unit length of stay (ICULOS) and HLOS patients undergoing fast‐track surgery, and its effects on post‐operative complications and healthcare costs.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational cohort study. The patients were divided into two groups: those who followed the exercise programme (pre‐hab group) and those who did not (no pre‐hab group). The study analysed the mean of ICULOS and HLOS for each group, recorded post‐operative complications, and calculated healthcare costs using the Spanish Ministry of Health cost tables.

Results

A total of 418 patients participated in the study with a mean age of 70.44 (10.87) years. The study found significant differences in HLOS (p = 0.001) and ICULOS (p = 0.003) between groups. Pre‐hab HLOS was 232.8 (221.3) hours in the hospital, whereas no pre‐hab LOS increased to 315.1 (277.9) hours. Pre‐hab ICULOS was 82.0 (129.8) hours when No pre‐hab ICULOS accounted 120.2 (190.3) hours. This reduction in hospital admissions resulted in savings of €356,107.16 in average healthcare costs for the pre‐hab group. Mortality risk (p = 0.034) was also reduced in the pre‐hab group (17.7% vs. 26.65% in the no pre‐hab group).

Discussion

An unsupervised home‐based respiratory programme reduces hospital and ICU stay, healthcare costs, post‐surgical pulmonary complications, and mortality risk. The clinical application of an unsupervised home‐based pre‐habilitation programme, focussing on ventilatory exercises and costal expansion techniques, has proven effective in enhancing patient recovery post‐cardiac surgery, offering significant healthcare cost savings, and reducing the burden on hospital resources.
FASTIA: A rapid and accessible platform for protein variant interaction analysis demonstrated with a single‐domain antibody
Authors: Matsunaga Ryo , Tsumoto Kouhei
Published: February 2025

Antibodies are critical tools in medicine and research, and their affinity for their target antigens is a key determinant of their efficacy. Traditional antibody affinity maturation and interaction analyses are often hampered by time‐consuming steps such as cloning, expression, purification, and interaction assays. To address this, we have developed FASTIA (Fast Affinity Screening Technology for Interaction Analysis), a novel platform that integrates rapid gene fragment preparation, cell‐free protein synthesis, and bio‐layer interferometry with non‐regenerative analysis. Using this approach, we can analyze the intermolecular interactions of over 20 variants over 2 days, requiring only the parent protein expression plasmid and basic equipment. We have demonstrated the ability of FASTIA to discriminate between single‐domain antibody variants with different binding affinities using the anti‐HEL VHH antibody D2‐L29, and mapped the results to the crystal structure to identify key interaction sites. FASTIA provides results comparable to those obtained using traditional methods. Our system bypasses the need for genetic engineering facilities and can be easily adopted by laboratories, accelerating the protein engineering and optimization processes. In addition, FASTIA is applicable to other protein–protein interactions, making it a versatile tool for studying molecular recognition. FASTIA facilitates efficient affinity maturation, protein engineering, and analysis of protein–protein interactions. This provides a rapid and accessible route for improving antibodies and a broader understanding of protein interactions.
Structure and Migration Mechanisms of Oxygen Interstitial Defects in β‐Ga2O3
Authors: Kaewmeechai Chaiyawat , Strand Jack , Shluger Alexander L.
Published: February 2025

Geometric configurations of oxygen interstitial (Oi) defects in β‐Ga2O3 are studied using an intensive search strategy and optimized with density functional theory using PBEsol and PBE0‐TC‐LRC functionals. The results show that Oi atoms can form O–O dimers at three different O sites in β‐Ga2O3 as oxygen split‐interstitial defects in 0 and +1 charge states. At higher Fermi levels above 1 eV from the conduction band minimum, trapping of extra electrons can break the O–O dimer, forming bulk and configurations. The investigation of O–O dimer migration mechanisms in β‐Ga2O3 reveals that dimers move between rings through bond‐breaking and rotation processes with activation barriers of ≈1 and 0.3 eV, respectively. can migrate to neighboring rings with a much lower barrier of 0.15 eV. These results provide a detailed map of the potential energy surface of Oi in β‐Ga2O3 and demonstrate how interstitial O can migrate between different rings.
An Unsupervised Approach to Derive Right Ventricular Pressure–Volume Loop Phenotypes in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Sivakumar Nikita , Zhang Cindy , Chang‐Chien Connie , Gu Pan , Li Yikun , Yang Yi , Rosen Darin , Tuhy Tijana , Cubero Salazar Ilton M. , Kauffman Matthew , Damico Rachel L. , Taylor Casey Overby , Greenstein Joseph L. , Hsu Steven , Hassoun Paul M. , Simpson Catherine E.
Published: February 2025

Although right ventricle (RV) dysfunction drives clinical worsening in pulmonary hypertension (PH), information about RV function has not been well integrated in PH risk assessment. The gold standard for assessing RV function and ventriculo‐arterial coupling is the construction of multi‐beat pressure–volume (PV) loops. PV loops are technically challenging to acquire and not feasible for routine clinical use. Therefore, we aimed to map standard clinically available measurements to emergent PV loop phenotypes. One hundred and one patients with suspected PH underwent right heart catheterization (RHC) with exercise, multi‐beat PV loop measurement, and same‐day cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). We applied unsupervised k‐means clustering on 10 PV loop metrics to obtain three patient groups with unique RV functional phenotypes and times to clinical worsening. We integrated RHC and CMR measurements to train a random forest classifier that predicts the PV loop patient group with high discrimination (AUC = 0.93). The most informative variable for PV loop phenotype prediction was exercise mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP). Distinct and clinically meaningful PV loop phenotypes exist that can be predicted using clinically accessible hemodynamic and RV‐centric measurements. Exercise mPAP may inform RV pressure–volume relationships.
Almost‐Linear Planted Cliques Elude the Metropolis Process
Authors: Chen Zongchen , Mossel Elchanan , Zadik Ilias
Published: February 2025

A seminal work of Jerrum (1992) showed that large cliques elude the Metropolis process. More specifically, Jerrum showed that the Metropolis algorithm cannot find a clique of size for , which is planted in the Erdős‐Rényi , in polynomial‐time. Information theoretically, it is possible to find such planted cliques when . Since the work of Jerrum, the computational problem of finding a planted clique in was studied extensively, and many polynomial‐time algorithms were shown to find the planted clique if it is of size , while no polynomial‐time algorithm is known to work when . The planted clique problem for is now widely considered a foundational problem in the study of computational‐statistical gaps. Notably, the first evidence of the problem's algorithmic hardness is commonly attributed to Jerrum (1992). In this paper, we revisit the original Metropolis algorithm suggested by Jerrum. Interestingly, we find that the Metropolis algorithm actually fails to recover a planted clique of size for any constant , unlike many other efficient algorithms that succeed when . Moreover, like many results in the MCMC literature, the result of Jerrum shows that there exists a starting state for which the Metropolis algorithm fails. For a wide range of temperatures, we show that the algorithm fails when started at the most natural initial state, which is the empty clique. This answers an open problem from Jerrum (1992).
How Far Is China From the Ideal Sustainable Development Pathway?
Authors: Zhang Sun , Chen Wei , Shi Haimeng , Li Qiao
Published: February 2025

Sustainable development is a concern across all sectors in the modern world. While numerous measures have been developed to evaluate sustainable development levels, significant gaps persist in assessing the sustainability of development pathways. This study assesses the sustainability of China's development through the framework of “strong sustainability” and proposes region‐specific development pathways informed by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) index and underlying driving factors. The Sustainable Development Pathway Index (SDPI) is used to establish sustainable social standards and distinguish development pathways among regions. Using data from China in 2000 and 2020, quantile regression is employed to analyze the driving factors effectively. The results indicate a stepped distribution from east to west, with 77.42% of regions following a sustainable development pathway. Notably, Beijing has entered the “Brundtland Quadrat.” Ecological factors, such as vegetation cover, act as constraints on the development of regions with the HH and LH patterns. Social and cultural factors, such as infrastructure development and maternal education levels, play a pivotal role in guiding regions following sustainable development pathways toward an ideal sustainable development society. Accurately measuring the SDPI and determining regional development patterns provide valuable insights for decision‐makers and serve as key references for other developing countries in their pursuit of sustainable development pathways.
Lipid/ZIF‐8 Biocomposites Based on Liposomes or Vesicles: In Situ Formation, and Preliminary Evaluation as Delivery Vehicles for Hydrophobic Drugs
Authors: Cano‐Sarabia Mary , Aydin Funda , Meng Lingxin , Gil‐Bonillo Marta , Fonseca Javier , Dietrich Manuela , Renner Simon , Amenitsch Heinz , Falcaro Paolo , Imaz Inhar , Maspoch Daniel
Published: February 2025

Integrating lipid self‐assemblies with metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) creates biocomposites ideal for encapsulation, protection, and delivery of functional species. This can be achieved using preformed MOFs or through in situ MOF formation. Herein, the one‐pot formation of ZIF‐8 MOF particles in the presence of two lipid self‐assemblies (vesicles or liposomes) is reported, generating two types of hybrid lipid/ZIF‐8 biocomposites. Each lipid assembly can be used to encapsulate hydrophobic actives into the hybrid lipid/ZIF‐8 biocomposites, demonstrated with Nile Red and Astaxanthin (ATX) as representative cargo. In vitro digestion of ATX‐loaded hybrid lipid/ZIF‐8 particles in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) shows distinct release kinetics: liposome‐based particles offer a more sustained release compared to vesicle‐based biocomposites. Intriguingly, in various media (water, simulated gastric fluid, bicarbonate, and SIF), the sodalite ZIF‐8 topology in liposome‐based lipid/ZIF‐8 particles undergoes a crystalline phase transition to the denser, more‐stable phase ZIF‐C. This phase transition, along with a deeper internalization of ATX in liposome‐based particles, accounts for the differences in release kinetics. In summary, the study provides valuable insights for the synthesis of hybrid lipid/ZIF‐8 biocomposites, the encapsulation of hydrophobic molecules, the importance of investigating potential crystalline phase transitions of MOFs in different media, and their potential as drug delivery vehicles.
Material‐Mediated Immunotherapy to Regulate Bone Aging and Promote Bone Repair
Authors: Xue Pengfei , Wang Jiayi , Fu Yu , He Hongyan , Gan Qi , Liu Changsheng
Published: February 2025

As the global population ages, an increasing number of elderly people are experiencing weakened bone regenerative capabilities, resulting in slower bone repair processes and associated risks of various complications. This review outlines the research progress on biomaterials that promote bone repair through immunotherapy. This review examines how manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing, electrospinning, and microfluidic technology contribute to enhancing the therapeutic effects of these biomaterials. Following this, it provides detailed introductions to various anti‐osteoporosis drug delivery systems, such as injectable hydrogels, nanoparticles, and engineered exosomes, as well as bone tissue engineering materials and coatings used in immunomodulation. Moreover, it critically analyzes the current limitations of biomaterial‐mediated bone immunotherapy and explores future research directions for material‐mediated bone immunotherapy. This review aims to inspire new approaches and broaden perspectives in addressing the challenges of bone repair and aging by exploring innovative biomaterial‐mediated immunotherapy strategies.
A Dual‐Responsive Fe₃O₄@ZIF‐8 Nanoplatform Combining Magnetic Targeting and pH Sensitivity for Low Back Pain Therapy
Authors: Li Hao , Zhang Zhihao , Zhu Dingding , Zheng Huiyuan , Zhu Zhongze , Shen Nana , Guo Zhu , Wu Xiaolin , Qi Xiaoying , Li Qiang , Ma Qingming , Xiang Hongfei
Published: February 2025

Low back pain (LBP) resulting from sciatic nerve compression presents major challenges in pain management, as traditional therapies provide only short‐term relief and pose risks of systemic toxicity. In this study, an innovative Fe3O4@ZIF‐8‐RVC (FZR) dual‐responsive nanoplatform is introduced that integrates magnetic targeting with pH‐sensitive, sustained drug release to overcome these limitations. The FZR nanoplatform encapsulates ropivacaine (RVC) within the ZIF‐8‐coated Fe3O4 core, enabling precise and prolonged analgesia at the injury site through magnetic guidance and acid‐triggered release. In vitro and in vivo assessments indicate that FZR achieves high drug loading, sustained release in acidic environments, and excellent biocompatibility, significantly extending analgesic effects in chronic nerve injury models while minimizing systemic exposure. Behavioral tests and molecular analyses in LBP rat models confirm that FZR effectively suppresses pain‐related neuronal activity and central sensitization markers. This dual‐responsive nanoplatform FZR offers a safe, long‐lasting, and targeted therapeutic approach, holding strong potential for advancing pain relief in LBP and related neuropathic pain conditions.
Structural Changes of NiFe Layered Double Hydroxides During the Oxygen Evolution Reaction: A Diffraction and Total Scattering Operando Study
Authors: Aalling‐Frederiksen Olivia , Schlegel Nicolas , Punke Stefanie , Anker Andy S. , Wiberg Gustav K. H. , Wang Baiyu , Edelvang‐Pejrup Jens , Holde Freja B. , Salinas‐Quezada María Paula , Magnard Nicolas P. L. , Graversen Laura G. , Arenz Matthias , Pittkowski Rebecca K. , Jensen Kirsten M. Ø.
Published: February 2025

NiFe‐layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are promising electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline media. Here, operando X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray total scattering are used with Pair Distribution Function (PDF) analysis to investigate the atomic structure of the catalytically active material and follow structural changes under operating conditions. XRD shows an interlayer contraction under applied oxidative potential, which relates to a transition from the α‐LDH to the γ‐LDH phase. The phase transition is reversible, and the α‐LDH structure is recovered at 1.3 VRHE. However, PDF analysis shows an irreversible increase in the stacking disorder under operating conditions, along with a decrease in the LDH sheet size. The analysis thus shows that the operating conditions induce a breakdown of the particles leading to a decrease in crystallite size.
Surface Stabilization to Enhance Single Molecule Toroidal Behavior in {Dy3} Molecules: the Impact of Au(111), MgO, and Graphene Surfaces
Authors: Chauhan Deepanshu , Tiwari Rupesh Kumar , Rajaraman Gopalan
Published: February 2025

Single‐molecule toroids (SMTs), with vortex‐like magnetic anisotropy axes, hold promise for quantum technologies, but controlling their toroidal states on the surface remains challenging. To address this, the SMT behavior of [Dy3(µ3‐OH)2L3Cl(H2O)5]Cl3 (where L = ortho‐vanillin) grafted onto Au(111), MgO has been studied, and graphene surfaces in pristine form (1) and with pyrene (2) and (CH2)8S (3) linkers, using periodic density functional theory and ab initio CASSCF/RASSI‐SO methods. Both pristine and chemically functionalized molecules are stable on Au(111) and graphene surfaces; however, functionalization provides higher binding energies and, in some cases, enhances the SMT properties. The MgO surface, however, is found to be unsuitable as it abstracts an H atom from the molecule, leading to the loss of its SMT characteristics. The energy gap (ΔE) between the toroidal (nonmagnetic) and spin‐flip (magnetic) states in complex 1 on Au(111) and graphene surfaces are 6.9 and 6.6 cm−1, respectively. Complexes 2 on Au(111) and 3 on graphene exhibit ΔE and toroidal blocking fields of 9.8 cm−1/1.2 T and 6.8 cm−1/0.83 T, respectively, representing the highest recorded values for this class of SMTs. These findings demonstrate the potential of surface stabilization to improve the functionality and applicability of SMTs in advanced quantum technologies.
Ultra‐Bandwidth Microwave Absorption and Low Angle Sensitivity in Dual‐Network Aerogels with Dual‐Scale Pores
Authors: Wang Xin , Chen Xiaoming , Wang Baichuan , He Qingyuan , Cao Jincao , Zhu Ye , Su Kewei , Yan Huiyi , Sun Pengsong , Li Runlang , Zhang Jie , Shao Jinyou
Published: February 2025

Aerogels with porous structures offer an attractive approach to modulating electromagnetic parameters and enhancing electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption performance. However, conventional aerogels are limited by their single‐scale pore size and fixed orientation, which constrain their EMW absorption capabilities. This study introduces aerogels with dual‐scale pores and dual‐network structure constructed via constant‐temperature freezing and secondary‐infusion freezing method. Multiscale aerogels with both micrometer‐ and submillimeter‐scale pores are constructed when the Ti3C2Tx MXene and thermoplastic polyurethane solution is frozen and dried at a specific temperature, leading to an ultra‐wide effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) reaching 10.41 GHz in the vertical direction. Furthermore, to address the poor EMW absorption in the parallel direction, a secondary infusion freezing method is applied to form an aerogel with a dual‐network structure, which forms reflective interfaces perpendicular to the incident EMW in various directions. This adjustment enhances the EAB in the parallel direction from 1.58 to 5.93 GHz, marking a 275.32% enhancement, while the EAB in the vertical incident direction reaches 8.08 GHz. This design strategy overcomes the limitations of structural scale and arrangement direction, enriching the attenuation mechanisms of the absorber, while effectively reducing sensitivity to the direction of incoming EMW, offering new insights for designing efficient EMW absorbers.
Polar‐Nonpolar Synergy Toward High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc–Iodine Batteries
Authors: Zhu Lingfeng , Guan Xinwei , Zhang Zhenfang , Yuan Zhilong , Zhang Congcong , Wang Ye , Xue Ruichang , Mayes Edwin L. H. , Yong Zijun , Xu Haimei , Li Xiaoning , Li Hui , Jia Baohua , Yu Hai , Ma Tianyi , Sun Yifei
Published: February 2025

Aqueous zinc‐iodine batteries (AZIBs) hold great promise for large‐scale energy storage due to their inherent safety, cost‐effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. However, their practical application is hindered by the sluggish redox kinetics of iodine species and the “shuttle effect” of polyiodides, both of which degrade cycling stability and capacity retention. Herein, a “polar‐nonpolar strategy” is proposed for the first time, which couples nonpolar porous carbon (PC) as the iodine host with highly polar zinc oxide (ZnO) as separator modification materials. Specifically, the PC host leverages its porous structure and nonpolar properties to accommodate and immobilize iodine, simultaneously enhancing the conductivity of the cathode. Meanwhile, the polar ZnO on the separator accelerates electron transfer with polyiodides through strong adsorption and catalytic effects, improving the reversible transformation of iodine species. UV–visible spectroscopy and electrochemical kinetic analyses confirm the rapid transformation and effective polyiodide inhibition in this system. As a result, the prepared PC‐I2//ZnO@GF battery demonstrates high‐rate capacity and excellent long‐term cycling stability, surpassing the performance of other recently reported AZIBs. This polar‐nonpolar strategy establishes a novel design rationale for developing future high‐performance zinc‐iodine batteries.
Thiophene Substituent Engineering of Carbazole Based Self‐Assembled Monolayers for Use in High‐Performance Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhao Peng , He Dingqian , Fu Xu , Gao Huixin , Xia Jianxin , Hu RuiYuan , Li Xingao , Zhang Yi , Feng Yaqing , Zhang Bao
Published: February 2025

Carbazole‐based self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) are widely used in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the biased intermolecular assembly of SAM molecules, and the lack of Lewis‐basic heteroatoms to efficiently tune the crystallinity of perovskites and passivate the interface defects still limited the further improvement of the efficiency and stability for PSCs involving carbazole‐based SAMs. Herein, a novel 3,6‐dithiophene carbazole‐based SAM molecule (named CzTh) is designed via the substituent engineering strategy, which is demonstrated to effectively solve the obstacles. The theory and experiment find that the introduction of thiophene regulated SAMs with the carbazole core in terms of surface wettability for precursor solvent, energy level alignment, the crystallization of perovskite films and defects passivation, which is attributed to dipole moment changes, and the Lewis base property of S atom. Consequently, the PSCs with CzTh achieved enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) and excellent air stability, compared to the commercial SAMs (Me‐4PACz). As an “one‐stone‐three‐birds” design strategy for SAMs, the “thiophene‐substitution” effectively tunes the perovskite crystallization, passivates the defects, and enhances the hole injection at the perovskite/SAMs interface of inverted PSCs.
Microstructure Manipulation Achieves Superior Efficiency of GeTe‐Based Thermoelectric Modules
Authors: Sun Qianqian , Chen Kaiyi , Tan Xiaojian , Li Hongtao , Wu Guangjie , Guo Zhe , Cai Jianfeng , Liu Guo‐Qiang , Wu Jiehua , Jiang Jun
Published: February 2025

GeTe has good thermoelectric performance at relatively high temperatures, but the low‐symmetry structure near room temperature and phase transition limit its service stability for power generation applications. Here, the thermoelectric properties and mechanical hardness of GeTe are improved by microstructure manipulation and phase transition engineering. The incorporation of Cr, Pb, and Sb into the GeTe lattice modulates the phase transition, increasing the cubic phase fraction from 49% to 73% at 300 K. These modifications introduce shear strains and refined herringbone structures, enhancing phonon scattering while simultaneously improving carrier mobility through dislocation accumulation and band convergence. Consequently, the optimal materials achieve a maximum zT of 2.1 at 700 K and an average zT of 1.5 across the 300–773 K temperature range, along with a Vickers hardness of 1.88 GPa. Paired with n‐type PbTe, the fabricated seven‐pair module achieves a superior efficiency of 9.7% under a 500 K temperature gradient. This study demonstrates microstructure manipulation is a promising strategy for GeTe‐based thermoelectric applications.
Amorphous/Crystalline Interface of Bi/Bi4NbO8Cl Heterostructure for Improved Piezo‐Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Shangyong , Li Yongjin , Li Zhifeng , Xu Liang , Yin Zhaoyi , Qiu Jianbei , Yang Zhengwen , Song Zhiguo
Published: February 2025

Efficient separation of photogenerated charges at the surface of photocatalysts is vital for achieving high photocatalytic activity. Here, a Bi/Bi4NbO8Cl heterostructure piezo‐photocatalyst with an amorphous/crystalline interface (acBi/BNC) is prepared by in situ reduction using Bi4NbO8Cl as a self‐sacrificial template. This ingenious design synergistically utilizes the advantages of the amorphous/crystalline interface structure, localized surface plasmon resonance effect, and piezoelectric field. The formation of amorphous/crystalline interfaces induces the generation of oxygen vacancies, and subsequently lattice distortions, thus improving the piezoelectric properties. Theoretical and experimental results demonstrate that the combination of piezoelectric field and amorphous/crystalline interface promotes the effective separation and migration of photogenerated charges between the bulk and surface of the catalysts. Under simultaneous light and ultrasound, the optimal heterostructure (acBi/BNC‐3) exhibit superior photodegradation efficiency of tetracycline reached 80% within 5 min, and the reaction rate (2.78 × 10−1 min−1) is 7.8 and 5.4 times that of pure Bi4NbO8Cl (BNC) and crystalline Bi/Bi4NbO8Cl (cBi/BNC), respectively. Furthermore, the piezo‐photocatalytic tetracycline degradation efficiency surpasses those under individual photocatalysis and piezocatalysis conditions. This work provides a novel rational design to improve the spatial charge separation of Bi‐based catalysts and prepare high‐performance piezo‐photocatalysts via interface engineering.
Ultra‐Thick Graphene Films with High Thermal Conductivity Through a Non‐Stacking Strategy
Authors: Yang Shujing , Zheng Haolong , He Peng , Lu Yonghua , Guo Na , Li Yanhong , Ding Guqiao
Published: February 2025

The growing heat flow density from the miniaturization trend of electronic devices seriously challenges the heat diffusion in electronic systems. Consequently, there is an increasing demand for thermal management materials with both thermal conductivity (K) and material thickness (d) to effectively transfer devices’ heat flux. Graphene films (GFs) with high K have attracted significant attention, but achieving both high K and large d remains challenging due to graphene's intrinsic properties and fabrication limitations. Here, a novel non‐stacking strategy is proposed for fabricating monolithic thick GFs. By utilizing the ultra‐small‐sized graphene oxide slurry, introducing multi‐line shearing, and utilizing a specially designed frame, stable and highly oriented thick films are successfully produced. These thick films eliminate the interfacial defects and enable a monolithic GF with ultra‐high K over 1600 W m−1 K−1 (improved by 17.03%) when d exceeds 300 µm compared to the conventional multi‐layer stacking method. While the K × d value, which represents the film's heat transfer capability, increased by 21.34% to 0.544 W K−1, the chip's operating temperature further decreased by 3.3 °C. The proposed strategy provides a promising solution to produce high‐performance thick GFs and represents an effective route for heat dissipation of electronic systems.
Controllable Growth of Thick‐Layer Graphene or Graphite on Copper by Tuning Silicon Additives
Authors: Liu Fengning , An Hao , He Qing , Li Xuesong , Ding Feng
Published: February 2025

The synthesis of multilayer van der Waals (vdW) film materials has attracted considerable interest in both fundamental and applied research. Recently, methods for synthesizing multilayer graphene films or graphite on single‐crystal nickel foils are developed. However, the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) synthesis of thick‐layer graphene films or graphite (TLG) on copper substrates remains a significant challenge due to the self‐limiting growth phenomenon. In this study, a novel method to grow TLG on copper substrates by controlling the silicon additive is presented. The as‐grown TLG exhibits high quality, with controllable thickness from a few layers to tens of nanometers. The growth of TLG films is achieved by the synchronous growth of multilayer graphene islands on a silicide copper surface, which is likely to be in a liquid state according to the Cu‐Si phase diagram. On the Cu‐Si surface, all graphene layers grow synchronously, circumventing the self‐limiting mechanism and the antiwedding cake growth or wedding cake mode of van der Waals material growth. Based on this synchronous growth mode, the thickness of TLG can be precisely controlled, ranging from a few to tens of nanometers. The study provides a facile and scalable way to synthesize high‐quality thick vdW films for various applications.
Hippocampal Granule Cells Downregulate Their GABAergic Phenotype and Deactivate Its Activity‐Dependent Reinduction in Culture Conditions
Authors: Gómez‐Lira Gisela , Castro Héctor , Reyes‐Vaca Arturo , Gutiérrez Rafael
Published: February 2025

Hippocampal granule cells express GABAergic and glutamatergic phenotype markers during development; hence, they corelease GABA and glutamate. In the adult, the GABAergic phenotype is switched off; however, increased excitability upregulates the GABAergic phenotype and thus, granule cells corelease glutamate and GABA. Previous work shows that short‐term cultures (24 h) of dissociated granule cells prepared from adult rats, which do not express GAD or VGAT, can express these markers when exposed to kainic acid and BDNF. We here test whether the same manipulation enables granule cells to corelease glutamate and GABA in long‐term cultures where cells are connected. Interestingly, we find that long‐term cultured cells are not able to express the GABAergic phenotype despite presenting it during their development, and with paired recordings, we confirm that granule cells only release glutamate. The development of granule cells in long‐term isolation likely deprives them of essential signaling that a normal cellular milieu provides to enable phenotypic change. The molecular mechanisms that could underlie this should be further explored by comparing their development in situ and in cultured conditions.
Self‐Propulsion of a Benzoic Acid Disk Reflecting the Mesoscopic State of an Amphiphilic Molecular Layer
Authors: Fujita Risa , Matsuo Muneyuki , Mori Taizo , Hasegawa Takeshi , Nakata Satoshi
Published: February 2025

In this study, we developed a novel self‐propulsion system using the mesoscopic state of an amphiphilic molecular layer. A benzoic acid (BA) disk and 4‐stearoyl amidobenzoic acid (SABA) were used as the self‐propelled object and amphiphile, respectively. The BA disk was driven by the difference in surface tension around it on the aqueous surface, and its motion was influenced by the intermolecular interactions between BA and SABA. Simultaneous Brewster angle microscopy and surface pressure versus area isotherm measurements were performed to evaluate the meso‐ and macroscopic states of the SABA molecular layer at different temperatures (T) in the aqueous phase. At T = 293 K and 10 ≤ A ≤ 16.8 Å2 molecule−1, the BA disk exhibited linear reciprocating motion due to the homogeneously distributed SABA molecular layer. Conversely, the heterogeneous distribution of SABA domains at T = 303 K and 10 ≤ A ≤ 12.6 Å2 molecule−1 led to ring‐shaped reciprocating motion. The SABA molecular layer, which was irreversibly compressed via BA disk motion, acted as a boundary for the BA disk motion. The findings of this study should advance the programming of self‐propulsion at the molecular level via the mesoscopic state.
Thermodynamic factors for selecting suitable hydrate formers for saline water treatment in the Mekong Delta
Authors: Tran Quang Nhat , Pham‐Nguyen Khoa Dang , Phuoc Ho Thi , Truong‐Lam Hai Son
Published: February 2025

This study presents a significant advancement in the field of water treatment, specifically in the techniques used for identifying an appropriate hydrate former for saline desalination in agricultural regions. Salinization is a growing concern in the Mekong Delta, particularly impacting Ben Tre province, where agriculture heavily influences the local economy and livelihoods. The focus was on 1,1,1,2‐tetrafluoroethane (R134a), propane, pentafluoroethane (R125a), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) as potential candidates. Simulation studies assessed hydrate formation with these formers in various water sources, including pure water, saline water from Ben Tre province in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam, and seawater from Con Dao Island, Vietnam. The phase equilibria for the four selected formers were predicted using CSMGem commercial software and the Hu–Lee–Sum (HLS) correlation. Raman spectroscopy revealed that guest molecules were confined to the large cages of structure II hydrates. The simulation outcomes, corroborated by experimental data demonstrated good consistency. The thermodynamic data guided the desalination process design, highlighting R134a as the optimal hydrate former for desalination. In conclusion, the study utilized thermodynamic principles and simulation to determine a suitable hydrate former for desalination, with R134a emerging as the preferred choice. The study's implications for improving the sustainability of water resources in salinized regions are of international relevance.
Moisture transport by convective overshoots in the tropical tropopause layer
Authors: Powell C. W. , Haynes P. H. , Ming A. D. , Taylor J. R.
Published: February 2025

Deep convection overshooting the tropical tropopause offers the potential for significant transport of moisture into the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) by avoiding the cold‐point temperature constraint on water vapour concentration. As vertical transport through the TTL largely sets global stratospheric composition, convective hydration is an important but debated pathway. In this review, we discuss evidence of convective hydration of the TTL and its mechanism, highlighting recent advances in understanding. We summarise recent estimates for the contribution of convective hydration to the stratospheric water vapour budget and highlight open questions that may be addressed in future research.
A high rate of mortality in liver cirrhosis patients after emergency abdominal surgery
Authors: Skovsen Anders Peter , Jensen Thomas Korgaard , Gögenur Ismail , Tolstrup Mai-Britt
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In the elective setting, there are high mortality rates for patients with liver cirrhosis after surgery. Few studies focus on emergency surgery. This study investigates mortality and morbidity of patients with cirrhosis undergoing emergency abdominal surgery.

Methods

In a database established at two Copenhagen University Hospitals (Herlev and North Zealand), including all patients operated in an emergency setting (n = 1116), including all patients with known cirrhosis at time of surgery. Postoperative complications, and mortality rates were evaluated by a matched case-control method, matching cases and controls according to surgical procedure, age, sex and American Society of Anaesthesiologists-class (ASA). Medical and surgical complications were classified according to the Clavien-Dindo classification.

Results

In the study, 24 patients with cirrhosis and 48 matched controls were evaluated. The 30-day mortality was 37.5% for patients with cirrhosis and 12.5% for controls (OR 4.2, 95% CI [1.28, 13.80], p = 0.014) and 90-day mortality was 62.5% for patients with cirrhosis compared to 18.8% for controls (OR 7.22, 95% CI [2.41, 21.68], p < 0.001). For patients with cirrhosis 58.3% had surgical complications compared to 31.3% for the controls (p = 0.027). The reoperation rate was 45.8% in the cirrhosis group and 22.9% in the control group (p = 0.047). The days-alive-out-of-hospital at 90-days (DAOH-90) was 9 days in the cirrhosis group and 78 days in the control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This retrospective study shows that patients with cirrhosis have significantly higher mortality rates after emergency surgery, more surgical complications and reoperations, and reduced DAOH-90.