bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“ZnO‐In‐Carbon‐Cage” Decorated Carbon Fibers as a Stable Lithium Host with Enhanced Kinetics for Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Fan Shuling , Sun Zhongcheng , Liu Can , Ye Fangmin , Liu Meinan
Published: January 2025

Lithium (Li) metal anodes (LMAs), which show a great potential in constructing high‐specific‐energy‐density Li metal batteries (LMBs), have abstracted wide research interest. However, the generation of Li dendrites and the repeated change of volume upon Li plating/stripping severely block the practical commercialization of LMBs. Herein, the functional carbon fibers (CFs) decorated with ZnO embedded carbon cage (ZnO@C‐d‐CFs) were fabricated successfully by a two‐step route including the in‐situ growth of Zn‐based metal organic frameworks (MOFs) and subsequent carbonization process, which enriched the lithiophilic sites of CFs host and improved Li+ kinetics of Li+ plating/stripping. Markedly, our designed ZnO@C‐d‐CFs possessed an obvious surface stability for Li+ plating/stripping (e. g., 1000 cycles with a CE of ~100 % for ZnO@C‐d‐CFs||Li cell, 1200 h for Li‐ZnO@C‐d‐CFs|| Li‐ZnO@C‐d‐CFs cell), and demonstrated a great potential in practical LMBs (e. g., a low‐capacity decay of 0.067 mAh g−1 per cycle within the monitored 900 cycles in Li‐ZnO@C‐d‐CFs||LiFePO4 (LFP) cell). The impressive results verified an effectiveness of surface modification on Li host to boost the stable LMAs.
Bifunctional Pd‐Pt Supported Nanoparticles for the Mild Hydrodeoxygenation and Oxidation of Biomass‐Derived Compounds
Authors: Ruta Vincenzo , Cipriano Luis A. , Di Liberto Giovanni , Wojcieszak Robert , Vilé Gianvito
Published: January 2025

The conversion of bio‐based molecules into valuable chemicals is essential for advancing sustainable processes and addressing global resource challenges. However, conventional catalytic methods often demand harsh conditions and suffer from low product selectivity. This study introduces a series of bifunctional PdxPty catalysts supported on TiO2, designed for achieving selective and mild‐temperature catalysis in biomass conversion. Synthesized via a sol immobilization method and characterized by XRF, N2 physisorption, HRTEM, HAADF‐STEM, and XPS, these catalysts demonstrate superior selectivity and activity over monometallic counterparts. In fact, at 20 bar H2, Pt/TiO2 show a low selectivity in benzophenone hydrodeoxygenation, favoring the benzhydrol hydrogenation product; similarly, Pd/TiO2 preferentially form the diphenylmethane hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) product, but with slow conversion rates. The synergistic combination of the two metals in Pd4Pt1/TiO2 drastically improve performance, with 100 % benzophenone conversion and 73 % diphenylmethane selectivity. DFT calculations confirm the synergy between Pd and Pt as the key to drive the activity and selectivity. Additionally, the catalysts also demonstrate high recyclability with minimal performance loss, and have been generalized for the HDO of vanillin and furfural, and in HMF oxidation. Overall, this work highlights the potential of bimetallic catalysts in enabling efficient and selective bio‐based molecule conversion under mild conditions.
Morphological Characteristics, Mitochondrial Genome, and Evolutionary Insights Into a New Sea Squirt From the Beibu Gulf
Authors: Zhang Yichuan , Qin Yuting , Wu Yueying , Liu Liping , Zhang Wenguang , Ding Ling , Ya Xiangpei , Wen Zhiting , Feng Kuaili , Wang Hong , Wang Yujun
Published: January 2025

A new species of the genus Microcosmus was described in this study based on specimens collected from the coast of Xilian Town, Xuwen County, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, China. The morphological and molecular characteristics of this new species, Microcosmus sp. z YZ‐2024 (YZ‐2024), distinguish it from other sea squirts. Firstly, YZ‐2024 can be preliminarily distinguished by the following morphological features: (1) smooth surface of the tunica, without protuberances; (2) except for the attachment site, the tunica is orange‐red; (3) absence of neural ganglia, and the tunica does not contract abruptly when disturbed; (4) the heart is oval‐shaped. Most importantly, the mitochondrial genome characteristics of YZ‐2024 effectively and accurately distinguish it from other congeneric species, with a mitochondrial genome size of 14,520 bp (GenBank No. PP067884) and the proportions of bases A, T, G, and C comprising 26.83%, 47.16%, 16.91%, and 9.10%, respectively. Except for the gene COX1, the mitochondrial genome arrangement of YZ‐2024 is totally different from that of 22 other species in the class Ascidiacea. Evolutionary analysis has indicated that YZ‐2024 clusters with its congeneric species Microcosmus sulcatus. Interestingly, YZ‐2024 belongs to Pyuridae, but it clustered with 12 species of Styelidae into a clade. Based on this, it can be suggested that YZ‐2024 is a new species of sea squirt in the northern Beibu Gulf of the South China Sea. Moreover, this study is the first report of molecular identification of sea squirt species in the northern Beibu Gulf of the South China Sea.
Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction Improved the Extraction Rate, Omega‐3, and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Content of Fish Oil From Atlantic Bonito Waste
Authors: Ciftci Ozlem , Keskin Cavdar Hasene
Published: January 2025

This study presents an innovative approach for extracting fish oil from Atlantic bonito (Sarda sarda) waste, optimizing the extraction yield and omega‐3, polyunsaturated (PUFA), and saturated fatty acid (SFA) content. The response surface method was used to investigate vital parameters such as temperature, time, and solvent‐to‐solid ratio. The optimal extraction conditions were a 16 mL/g hexane‐to‐solid ratio, 60°C temperature, and 80 min extraction time for the highest extraction yield, omega‐3, and PUFA with a desirability of 0.93. These adjusted settings resulted in a 45.11% (g/g freeze‐dried fish waste) oil extraction yield, 39.41% (g/g extracted fish oil) omega‐3 fatty acid, and 45.21% (g/g extracted fish oil) PUFA content. Compared to the standard Soxhlet extraction procedure, ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) had a 90.50% efficiency at extracting fish oil and resulted in improved omega‐3 and PUFA content and decreased SFA content (p < 0.05). Additionally, the oil obtained using UAE had improved oxidative stability when compared to the Soxhlet oil in terms of induction time, acidity, peroxide, p‐anisidine, and total oxidation (TOTOX) values. The implications of these findings extend to various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals, where enriched omega‐3 and PUFA content could prove beneficial. These findings provide important insights into optimizing ultrasound‐assisted procedures, opening the way for further improvements in fish oil extraction and its numerous applications.

Practical Applications: Ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) for obtaining fish oil from discarded Atlantic bonito has practical implications in various sectors. The UAE achieved a success rate of 90.50% in extracting fish oil, surpassing traditional methods, and showcasing its superior efficiency. The extracted oil has high omega‐3 and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) content while minimizing the saturated fatty acids contents, making it highly beneficial for the food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries. The higher oxidative stability of UAE compared to Soxhlet extraction makes it a preferable option for enhancing oil quality. The eco‐friendly attributes of this product, which involve the use of less solvent and shorter extraction durations, are in line with sustainability goals in the fields of fisheries and waste reduction. Essentially, UAE is an efficient technique with wide‐ranging applications in improving the quality of fish oil and promoting sustainability objectives.
Synthesis of Chiral Heterocycles Through Enantioselective Silver‐Catalyzed Transformations
Authors: Pellissier Hélène
Published: January 2025

This review collects the recent developments in the synthesis of chiral heterocycles through enantioselective silver‐catalyzed transformations published since 2018. It demonstrates the power of chiral silver catalysts as special mild Lewis acids to provide an impressive diversity of reaction pathways, such as 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions, various types of cyclizations, along with a wide variety of more complex domino/tandem reactions, allowing many types of novel chiral heterocyclic products to be achieved in high enantioselectivities.
Direct mineral carbonation of fly ash under high pressure using acid mine drainage: Effects of solid‐to‐liquid ratio, stirring speed and CO2 pressure
Authors: Zide Sibulele , Ho Hsing‐Jung , Iizuka Atsushi , Petersen Jochen , Vadapalli Viswanath Ravi Kumar , Petrik Leslie , Ojumu Tunde
Published: January 2025

CO2 emissions contributing to global warming and waste related to energy generation using coal pose an issue in developing countries. Mineral carbonation (MC) of fly ash (FA) using acid mine drainage (AMD) can reduce CO2 and the negative environmental impact of FA including AMD from coal mining activity. The present study examined the direct carbonation (DC) of FA using pure water and AMD in a 600 mL autoclave pressure reactor. A preliminary study was conducted to observe the leaching behavior of FA in water and AMD. DC was conducted to determine the effect of solid‐to‐liquid ratio (0.2 and 0.5 g mL−1), stirring speed (100 and 400 rpm) and CO2 pressure (1–4 MPa) on the carbonation performance. The maximum calcium carbonate content in the carbonated FA was 4.33 wt% with a 60% conversion of calcium to CaCO3 for DC with pure water. The electricity required by the process was 18.9 kWh t−1‐CO2, corresponding to 0.019 t‐CO2 emitted t−1‐CO2 fixed in FA. DC using AMD was effective and the maximum CaCO3 content in FA was 6.68 wt%. This was due to the additional calcium content and enhanced calcium extraction provided by AMD. The actual CO2 uptake capacity was 29.4 g‐CO2 kg−1 fly ash. Studies on AMD as a reaction solvent for MC are few but can improve the carbonation performance of FA. Hence, the method can be viable for mining industries to mitigate negative environmental impacts and generate additional revenue through carbon credits.
Late Mesozoic Tectonic Transfer in the Southern Great Xing'an Range, NE China: Evidence From Geochronology, Geochemistry and Lu–Hf Isotopes of Intermediate‐Acid Intrusions in Eastern Inner Mongolia
Authors: Zhao ZhiXiong , Dong GuoChen , Santosh M. , Bao XiangPing , Ren YingWei , Xie ZhuoLin
Published: January 2025

The geodynamic background of late Mesozoic magmatism in eastern Inner Mongolia remains debated owing to multi‐plate influences. Here, we present zircon U–Pb geochronology, geochemistry and Hf isotope data for Late Jurassic diorite and Early Cretaceous quartz monzonite porphyry and granite porphyry to investigate the petrogenesis and tectonic setting. Zircon U–Pb data suggest that multiphase magmatism extended from the Late Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous, that is, 161.0 ± 1.0 Ma (diorite), 129.9 ± 1.4 Ma (quartz monzonite porphyry), 125.8 ± 1.1 Ma and 126.8 ± 1.1 Ma (granite porphyry). The dioritic samples have lower SiO2 (55.41–56.75 wt%), higher MgO (4.22–4.57 wt%) and Mg# (52–55). The quartz monzonite shows mediate SiO2 contents (63.17–64.89 wt%), belonging to the high‐K, calc‐alkaline series. The granite porphyry samples exhibit higher SiO2 (74.49–77.03 wt%) and Na2O + K2O (6.37–7.38 wt%) contents, while lower Mg# (20–25). The diorites and quartz monzonite porphyry show slight negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.85–0.88 and 0.78–0.90, respectively), while Eu anomalies are intensely for the granite porphyry (δEu = 0.45–0.67). All these rocks show enrichments in LILEs (U and Pb) and depletions in HFSEs (Nb, Ta, P and Ti). The clinopyroxenes are classified as augite and diopside, and they show slightly inverted U‐shaped patterns in the chondrite‐normalised REE diagram. The plagioclases are mainly andesine from the diorites, while they are albite from the quartz monzonite porphyry and granite porphyry. The εHf (t) values of zircon crystals range from +3.04 to +5.90, +2.04 to +4.10 and +1.93 to +4.35. These data indicate that the diorite formed by low degree partial melting of a depleted mantle wedge metasomatized by fluids. The quartz monzonite porphyry was generated by partial melting of the lower crust triggered by the underplating of depleted mantle‐derived basaltic magma. The granite porphyry is classified as S‐type granite and was sourced from greywacke. Combined with previous data, we conclude that Late Jurassic magmatism was related to the southward subduction of the Mongol‐Okhotsk Ocean, while the Early Cretaceous magmatic rocks formed in a post‐collision extensional setting.
Risks of Dementia Associated With Anticholinergic Medication Compared to Beta‐3 Agonist Among Older Patients With Overactive Bladder in Japan: The LIFE Study
Authors: Okita Yuki , Shimomura Yoshimitsu , Komukai Sho , Zha Ling , Komatsu Masayo , Kimura Yasuyoshi , Gon Yasufumi , Murata Fumiko , Maeda Megumi , Kiyohara Kosuke , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Fukuda Haruhisa
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Anticholinergic drugs can cause cognitive impairment. The risk of dementia associated with anticholinergics compared to beta‐3 agonists (mirabegron and vibegron) has not been extensively investigated in the super‐aging society of Japan. This study evaluated the association between the dementia risk and anticholinergics compared to beta‐3 agonists in older adults with overactive bladder in Japan.

Methods

This study had 1,493,202 participants from the Longevity Improvement & Fair Evidence Study, which includes claim data in Japan from 2014 to 2022. The participants included 13,448 anticholinergic drug users and 24,669 beta‐3 agonist users diagnosed with overactive bladder and aged ≥ 65 years. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to calculate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals being adjusted for confounding variables to evaluate the impact of anticholinergic drugs compared to beta‐3 agonists prescribed at index date to patients with overactive bladder.

Results

Among the beta‐3 agonist and anticholinergic drug users, the mean (standard deviation) age was 78.9 (6.7) and 78.8 (7.0) years, and the percentage of men was 47.2% and 39.7%, respectively. In the beta‐3 agonist group, 2130 participants were newly diagnosed with dementia during the 51,605 person‐years of follow‐up from the index date, whereas in the anticholinergic drug group, 1826 participants were diagnosed during the 34,929 person‐years of follow‐up. In the Cox proportional hazard regression model, there was an increased risk of dementia in the anticholinergic drug group compared to the beta‐3 agonist group (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15–1.30). The increased risk remained identical when Inverse Probability Weighting (IPW) model was used for the analysis (aHR = 1.19; 95% CI, 1.11–1.28).

Conclusions

Compared to beta‐3 agonists, anticholinergic drugs are associated with an increased risk of dementia in older adults with overactive bladder, in Japan. These findings suggest that beta‐3 agonists may have a lower risk of dementia than anticholinergics and have potential to be a good alternative opinion for older people with OAB, which warrants further study.
A Psychometric Evaluation of the Staff‐Reported EOLD‐CAD Measure Among Nursing Home Residents With Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Cagle John G. , Stump Timothy E. , Tu Wanzhu , Ersek Mary , Floyd Alexander , Van den Block Lieve , Zhang Peiyan , Becker Todd D. , Unroe Kathleen T.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The End‐of‐Life Dementia—Comfort Assessment in Dying (EOLD‐CAD) scale is one of the few outcome instruments designed to capture symptom burden and well‐being among nursing home residents with dementia; however, psychometric evaluations of the EOLD‐CAD are limited. Although the instrument is often used to assess outcomes prospectively, it was originally developed and tested as a postmortem assessment. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the instrument properties of the EOLD‐CAD using staff reports from a large sample of nursing home residents with cognitive impairment prior to death.

Methods

Using data from the multi‐state UPLIFT clinical trial, this study evaluated the psychometric properties of the EOLD‐CAD from 168 nursing home staff members reporting outcomes for 611 living residents with moderate to severe cognitive impairment. Staff also reported on resident quality‐of‐life using two different single item measures. We conducted confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and assessed construct validity, inter‐item reliability, and observer report bias.

Results

CFA produced a four‐factor solution. All factor loadings were > 0.40, ranging from 0.61–0.95 for Physical Distress, 0.71–0.91 for Dying Symptoms, 0.61–0.78 for Emotional Distress, and 0.89–0.94 for Well‐Being. Model indices suggest a good fit to the data with root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.053 (95% CI = (0.044, 0.062)), comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.971, and standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) = 0.093, with the SRMR slightly above the conventional threshold of > 0.08. Based on intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), patterns of observer reports were identified among staff who provided data for multiple residents. ICCs were notably high (> 0.60) for Well‐Being items. The EOLD‐CAD elicited a Cronbach's alpha of 0.73, and the instrument was negatively correlated with items measuring resident quality of life.

Conclusions

We found that when the EOLD‐CAD was completed by nursing home staff familiar with the respective residents, observer‐based patterns were detectable. Such patterns were adjusted for in our CFA, from we found that the EOLD‐CAD exhibited multidimensionality with a four‐factor structure capturing: Physical Distress, Emotional Distress, Dying Symptoms, and Well‐Being. In addition to the CFA, the EOLD‐CAD demonstrated generally valid and reliable psychometric properties in our population of long‐stay nursing home residents with moderate to severe cognitive impairment.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04520698
Supervillin‐Mediated ZO‐1 Downregulation Facilitates Migration of Cisplatin‐Resistant HCT116 Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Hong Yali , Li Xu , Mao Rongchen , Zhou Feier , Li Shengnan , Zhu Chao , Jin Lai
Published: January 2025

Supervillin (SVIL), the biggest member of the villin/gelsolin superfamily, has recently been reported to promote the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma by stimulating epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, little is known about the roles of SVIL in the migration of colorectal cancer cells. Here, we investigated the effects of SVIL on the migration of cisplatin‐resistant colorectal cancer cells. The model of cisplatin‐resistant HCT116 cells (HCT116/DDP) was established. Migration was assessed after SVIL knockdown. Tumor metastasis was assessed using a mouse model with tail vein injection of colorectal cancer cells. The results showed that the expression of SVIL was upregulated in HCT116/DDP cells compared to that in their parental cells. Also, the HCT116/DDP cells showed increased cell migration and lung metastasis. Furthermore, we revealed that the expression of SVIL was associated with the migration of HCT116/DDP cells. Reduced SVIL expression inhibited migration and lung metastasis in HCT116/DDP cells. Further work showed that SVIL knockdown blocked cell migration by targeting zona occludens‐1 (ZO‐1) mediated tight‐junction remodeling. The expression of ZO‐1, but not occludin and cludin5, was downregulated after SVIL knockdown. Immunofluorescence indicated that the linear ZO‐1 was interrupted while the SVIL knockdown reversed the interruption. This study displayed the relationship between SVIL and ZO‐1 in cisplatin‐resistant colon cancer cells, providing a new insight into the mechanism of colorectal cancer migration.
miR‐1224 Controls Mammal Cerebral Cortex Development by Targeting the 3’‐UTR of the Dlx1 mRNA
Authors: Liu Chenglong , Zhou Liyu , Liu Qingbai , Ni Li , Yang Jianping
Published: January 2025

Neural precursor cells (NPCs) are a group of cells with self‐renewal and multi‐differentiation potential. MicroRNAs are required for neurogenesis in the central nervous system (CNS). Recent reports suggest that miR‐1224 is important in human CNS diseases. However, its function in neurogenesis of brain development is unclear. The current study demonstrated the essential while developing the neocortex. The results showed that miR‐1224 facilitated more NPCs to differentiate into neurons and oligodendrocytes while suppressing astrocyte differentiation. Conversely, inhibition of miR‐1224 enhances the self‐renewal ability and apoptosis of NPCs. The role of miR‐1224 in the developing neocortex was examined by performing in‐utero electroporation in vivo. It was observed that depletion impeded upper‐layer Cux1+ neuronal generation while transforming radial glial cells into IPCs. However, miR‐1224 promoted NPC proliferation in the ventricular zone. Moreover, miR‐1224 negatively regulated the expression of Dlx1 in NPCs by directly targeting the mRNA 3’‐UTR region. These findings indicated that miR‐1224 is a crucial NPC neurogenesis regulator during cortical development.
Deciphering Saquinavir–Bovine Serum Albumin Interactions: Spectroscopic and Computational Insights
Authors: Rajendran Vijayakumar , Kandasamy Saravanan , Gunalan Seshan , Kanagaraj Sekar , Kothandan Gugan
Published: January 2025

Bovine serum albumin (BSA) plays a crucial role as a carrier protein in plasma, binding various ligands, including drugs. Understanding the interaction between BSA and saquinavir, an antiretroviral drug, is essential for predicting its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. We employed spectroscopic approaches, including circular dichroism spectrometry and fluorescence spectroscopy, to investigate the binding of saquinavir to BSA. CD studies revealed conformational changes upon saquinavir mesylate binding, and the complex was stable up to 45°C during thermal denaturation. Saquinavir quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA, indicating static quenching due to complex formation. Additionally, molecular docking simulations were performed to elucidate the favored binding site and interactions. The molecular docking results revealed that Subdomains IIA and IIB, which are proximal to Sudlow Site I, are the principal binding sites for the antiviral drug saquinavir. The ligand‐bound pose of BSA also revealed that residue Trp213, which is adjacent to saquinavir, further validated the results of the fluorescence quenching assay, suggesting that residue Trp213 is quenched upon binding with saquinavir. MD simulations allowed us to explore the dynamic behavior of the BSA–saquinavir complex over time. We observed conformational fluctuations, solvent exposure, flexibility of binding pockets, free energy landscape, and binding energy. This study enhances our understanding of drug–protein interactions and contributes to drug development and optimization.
Multi‐Scale Applicability Analysis of Three Ecological Network Construction Methods in Resilience Assessment
Authors: Huang Xinyuan , Wang Xiyu , Li Jiaxin , Zhang Mengxian , Chen Shensheng , Xu Bin , Nie Wenbin
Published: January 2025

Anthropogenic interference causes ecological fragmentation and vulnerability, weakening urban ecosystems' adaptive capacity. The ecological network is based on the principles of landscape ecology, connecting resource patches through linear corridors to protect biodiversity and landscape integrity, enhance environmental carrying capacity, and improve ecosystem resilience. However, current research on ecological network resilience often relies on single methods and scales, overlooking the potential discrepancies between different approaches and scales. This study uses Zhejiang to construct ecological networks with structural, functional, and integrated approaches at provincial, urban agglomeration, and city levels. The performance of these methods in protecting structure, maintaining function, and ensuring overall resilience was compared, yielding the following results: First, the spatial output consistency of source areas across different scales for the three methods ranged from 50.48% to 97.81%. Second, the integrated approach was not optimal for all three resilience goals. The structure‐oriented method demonstrated cross‐scale applicability for the structural resilience goal, while the function‐oriented strategy performed well in maintaining functional and overall resilience. Third, the scale analysis showed consistency in results at the provincial and urban agglomeration levels when meeting the same objectives, but discrepancies at the city level. By expanding the methodologies and scale perspectives in the field of ecological network resilience, this study assesses the applicability of different scales and methods for ecological network resilience. It was found that integrated methods do not always effectively coordinate multiple protection objectives; thus, large‐scale strategies cannot be directly applied at smaller scales in practical applications. This study proposes and validates a multi‐scale, multi‐method framework for assessing the resilience of ecological networks. It reveals the potential differences between scales and methods, providing valuable theoretical insights and practical guidance for future research on ecological network resilience, particularly regarding the applicability of methods at different scales.
Dual Jones Matrices Empowered Six Phase Channels Modulation with Single‐Layer Monoatomic Metasurfaces
Authors: Liu Ziqi , Mu Xinyang , Song Helun , Yu Yefeng , Zhang Ruirui , Zou Yonggang , Geng Zihan , Wang Mingdi , Chen Linghu , Sun Yunfei , Tong Xiaogang , Song Qinghua , Huang Wei
Published: January 2025

A comprehensive manipulation of the Jones matrix phase channels is crucial for enhancing the information capacity and security of the metasurface. However, a single‐layer planar metasurface, without the incorporation of chirality, can only achieve a maximum of three independent phase channels for single Jones matrix under either linear or circular polarization bases. Here, an effective strategy is proposed that utilizes dual Jones matrices in different polarization bases with a single‐layer monoatomic metasurface, thus extending the number of independent phase channels to six. To encode six holographic images into these six phase channels, a three‐step gradient descent algorithm is introduced. As a proof of principle, a metasurface consisting of arrays of monoatomic dielectric structure is designed and fabricated in each unit cell, which exhibits six independent holographic images in the far field. The demonstrated metasurface platform is expected to open up new possibilities for the development of optical devices for applications in high‐capacity information storage, high‐security encrypted communication, and high‐solution optical displays.
Probing Spatial Proximities Between Protons of Collagen Protein in Native Bone Using 2D 1H Multiple Quantum Experiments Under Fast MAS NMR
Authors: Patra Bijaylaxmi , Agarwal Vipin , Nishiyama Yusuke , Sinha Neeraj
Published: January 2025

In solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) spectroscopy, fast magic angle spinning (MAS) is a potent technique that efficiently reduces line broadening and makes it possible to probe structural details of biological systems in high resolution. However, its utilization in studying complex heterogeneous biomaterials such as bone in their native state has been limited. The present study has demonstrated the feasibility of acquiring two‐dimensional (2D) 1H‐1H correlation spectra for native bone using multiple‐quantum/single‐quantum correlation experiments (MQ/SQ) at fast MAS (70 kHz). This method uncovered distinct 1H–1H dipolar coupling networks involving long‐chain charged residues of collagen protein, highlighting their role in maintaining the stability of the collagen triple helix. Our study opens up new avenues for 1H‐detected multi‐quantum‐based experiments at fast MAS on native collagen‐containing biological systems to explore their complex heterogeneous structural details more efficiently.
Transitioning From Nusinersen to Risdiplam for Spinal Muscular Atrophy in Clinical Practice: A Single‐Center Experience
Authors: Bekircan‐Kurt Can Ebru , Subramanian Sharmada , Chagat Shannon , Mackenzie Samuel J. , Iammarino Megan , Reash Natalie , Richardson Carson , Tsao Chang‐Yong , Noritz Garey , Gushue Courtney , Kotha Kavitha , Paul Grace , Shell Richard , Alfano Lindsay N. , Lowes Linda P. , Connolly Anne M. , Waldrop Megan A.
Published: January 2025

Background

Nusinersen and risdiplam are U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved treatments for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). No head‐to‐head clinical trials to assess efficacy exist. Observational studies are needed to determine if transitioning to risdiplam is safe and efficacious.

Methods

This retrospective study at Nationwide Children's Hospital included individuals with SMA treated with nusinersen who switched to risdiplam. Motor, pulmonary and bulbar function were assessed before and 2 years after nusinersen and risdiplam initiation.

Results

Forty‐four individuals were included: 11 with SMA type 1, 25 with SMA type 2 and 8 with SMA type 3. Motor function improved after initiation of nusinersen treatment with the most significant improvements seen in the first year. After transition to risdiplam, motor function remained largely stable. Need for noninvasive ventilation (NIV) overnight occurred in both groups. Cough peak flow significantly improved in the risdiplam group. Hospitalizations were the same in both groups. One individual in the nusinersen group gained the ability to take some food by mouth; two individuals in the risdiplam group achieved some oral feeding and two became exclusively orally fed.

Conclusions

As expected, motor function was most improved in treatment naïve individuals in the first year after nusinersen initiation. Over half of our study population had posterior spinal fusion surgery (57%) which significantly impacted motor and respiratory outcomes, though slightly less so in the risdiplam group. Overall, our data demonstrates that transitioning from nusinersen to risdiplam is associated with a favorable safety profile and stable motor outcomes.
Individualized Dosing of Efgartigimod in Patients With Generalized Myasthenia Gravis: Clinical Experience at a Single Center
Authors: Silvestri Nicholas J.
Published: January 2025

Introduction/Aims

Neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) inhibitors represent a promising treatment option for patients with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG); however, data on clinical use are limited. The aim of this report is to describe one center's approach to efgartigimod dosing in patients with gMG.

Methods

Medical records of patients with acetylcholine receptor antibody‐positive (AChR‐Ab+) gMG whose symptoms were not adequately controlled by oral medications and/or intravenous immunoglobulin who received efgartigimod between January 2022 and January 2024 were retrospectively evaluated. The first three efgartigimod cycles (10 mg/kg IV) were initiated at fixed intervals (4 once‐weekly infusions, with 4 weeks between cycles). After the third cycle, initiation of subsequent treatment cycles and time between cycles were determined individually by clinical evaluation. Effectiveness was measured by the Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living (MG‐ADL) scale. Adverse events and changes to concomitant therapies were monitored.

Results

Nineteen patients were included and received a mean of 4.4 efgartigimod cycles, including two patients who discontinued after two cycles. All patients exhibited a clinically meaningful improvement in MG‐ADL total score from baseline to the end of the last cycle, with a mean improvement of 5.8 points. Seven (37%) patients achieved minimal symptom expression (MSE, MG‐ADL 0–1). From baseline to the end of the last cycle, daily prednisone dose was decreased or it was discontinued, while two patients initiated prednisone. Efgartigimod was generally well tolerated.

Discussion

This approach to efgartigimod dosing resulted in substantial MG‐ADL score improvement in these patients with AChR‐Ab+ gMG as well as reduced daily dose and/or discontinuation of concomitant corticosteroids.
Auf der Suche nach einer Markierung
Authors: Heimann Rebekka , Gromm Liesa , Asmis Knut R. , Zeitler Kirsten , Sälker Jannik
Published: January 2025

Wie bekommen Schüler:innen ein realistisches Bild vom typischen Arbeitsalltag chemisch Forschender? Am besten, indem sie eigene kleine Forschungsprojekte bearbeiten und Forschende nicht nur kennenlernen, sondern auch erfahren, was diese tun und was sie dazu motiviert.
Gründerkolumne: Warum Gründungen scheitern: Das Team
Authors: Festel Gunter
Published: January 2025

Warum Gründungen scheitern: das Team
GDCh‐Photochemie‐Tagung in Mainz
Authors: Kerzig Christoph
Published: January 2025

Mitte September 2024 fand in Mainz die 29. Tagung der GDCh‐Fachgruppe Photochemie statt. An der dreitägigen Veranstaltung nahmen 192 Personen von Universitäten, Forschungsinstituten und aus der Industrie teil, um Resultate vorzustellen und über Entwicklungen der Photochemie zu diskutieren.
Nachruf: Hans Paulsen (1922 – 2024)
Authors: Thiem Joachim
Published: January 2025

Hans Paulsen war Kohlenhydratchemiker und nutzte früh NMR‐Spektroskopie. Privat war er begeistert von Reisen, Land und Leuten.
Online‐Roundtable: Neue Wege in der GDCh
Authors: Bräutigam Maximilian
Published: January 2025

Beim Treffen der GDCh‐Ortsverbandsvorsitzenden ging es um Themen wie Nachwuchsförderung, Digitalisierung und Öffentlichkeitsarbeit.
KI‐Fabriken in Europa
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: January 2025

Neue KI‐Fabriken sollen Europas Innovationskraft und Führungsrolle in vertrauenswürdiger künstlicher Intelligenz stärken.
Zu wenig CO2 kompensiert
Authors: Käfer Katharina
Published: January 2025

Emissionsgutschriften kaufen, um den CO2‐Fußabdruck zu senken und Klimaziele zu erreichen – das funktioniert schlechter als gedacht.
Toward a Framework for Understanding Localization in Its Institutional Context: A Systems Perspective for Incorporating Local Values
Authors: Brinkerhoff Jennifer M.
Published: January 2025

This paper explores how we might integrate local traditional values into a systems approach for analyzing and maximizing localization in the context of foreign aid. The paper situates localization and its operationalization in the older and broader literature on the political economy of foreign aid. This political economy has led to a techno‐operational approach to localization, rather than a transformative one that would be more consistent with decolonizing aid. I adapt an earlier framework on the important role of identity and mutuality in maximizing the benefits of collaboration and partnerships to account for local values in giving, most notably reciprocity. A detailed example illustrates the potential for localization when the aid relationship privileges identity, and when reciprocity is facilitated within a system of institutional relationships. The analysis suggests several implications for institutional actors who want to promote localization and support transformative development. The proposed framework can be used to map aid interventions in a system of institutional relationships, changing the unit of analysis from a singular intervention to a system, which may combine different types of relationships that, together, can support localization that privileges local values, perspectives, and capacity.
Impact of Hospital Volume on Survival for Pediatric Wilms Tumor
Authors: Chidiac Charbel , Liu Olivia , Phan Paul , Khvatova Elizabeth , Pratilas Christine A. , Kunisaki Shaun M. , Slidell Mark B. , Rhee Daniel S.
Published: January 2025

Background

Treatment for children with Wilms tumor (WT) is multidisciplinary, often including surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. High‐volume hospitals (HVH) have been associated with improved outcomes in cancer care. Our study evaluates the association of hospital volume and survival outcomes in pediatric WT management.

Procedure

Patients ≤18 years undergoing surgery for WT were identified from the National Cancer Database (2004–2020). A restricted cubic spline model assessed the association between hospital volume and 5‐year survival. An extrapolated hospital volume cutoff was validated through Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression and applied to compare demographics, tumor characteristics, and treatment differences between HVH and low‐volume hospitals (LVH).

Results

Among 3424 patients, higher hospital volume was associated with improved survival, with no additional survival benefit beyond three cases per year. Using this as a cutoff, 11/227 institutions qualified as HVH, treating 696 patients (20.3%). Kaplan–Meier analysis supported this cutoff, showing a higher 5‐year survival for HVH (95.5% vs. 93.1%, p = 0.024), while multivariable analysis associated HVH treatment with reduced mortality (aHR 0.71, 95% CI: 0.54–0.93). Compared to HVH, LVH‐treated patients were more likely to be Hispanic (14.0% vs. 12.0%, p = 0.002), live closer to the treating facility (29 vs. 39 km, p < 0.0001), have fewer bilateral tumors (5.7% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.03), and receive less frequent lymph node sampling (81.6% vs. 88.9%, p < 0.0001) and chemotherapy (90.4% vs. 94.4%, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

In pediatric WT treatment, HVH treatment was associated with superior survival outcomes and greater adherence to lymph node sampling. To improve outcomes at LVH, additional training for clinicians at HVH could enhance guideline adherence and integrate effective practices.
Tribological behavior and compressive creep of PTFE/poly‐p‐hydroxybenzoate/fibrous wollastonite composites: The influence of hot‐pressing pressure
Authors: Rao Wei , Wei Gang , Deng Maoling , Zhang Xianyao
Published: January 2025

The introduction of poly‐p‐hydroxybenzoate (PHB) and fibrous wollastonite can effectively improve the comprehensive properties of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)‐based composites, but its properties are significantly influenced by hot‐pressing pressure during sintering. In this article, PTFE/fibrous wollastonite/PHB composites were prepared by using different hot‐pressing pressures, that is, 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 MPa. The relationship between the morphology, compressive strength, creep deformation and tribological properties of PTFE composites and sintering pressure was investigated. The results indicated that the prepared composites had the lowest friction coefficient of 0.208, the smallest creep value of 0.061 mm and the largest compressive strength of 35.2 MPa, and a minimum wear rate of 0.11 × 10−6 mm3/N m when the hot‐pressing pressure was 40 MPa. It was found that appropriate hot‐pressing pressure applied during sintering process facilitated the penetration of polytetrafluoroethylene macromolecules in the molten state through the reinforcing filler network interface around PTFE resin domains and the entanglement of PTFE macromolecules separated by the reinforcing fillers, thus effectively improving the friction and wear properties and compressive creep resistance of PTFE/PHB/fibrous wollastonite composites.

Highlights

Appropriate hot‐pressing pressure facilitated the better dispersion of fillers.

The worn surface and transfer film were examined to analyze wear mechanism.

Tribological and creep properties of the composites were noticeably improved.
Mental Health and Academic Performance in Adolescents: Elucidating the Role of Psychological Well‐Being and Psychological Distress. DADOS Study
Authors: Monzonís‐Carda Irene , Adelantado‐Renau Mireia , Beltran‐Valls Maria Reyes , Moliner‐Urdiales Diego
Published: January 2025

Adolescents' mental health and academic performance are subjects of paramount interest. Previous studies have revealed a strong association between these constructs during school years. However, there is little evidence about the dual‐factor model of mental health, which includes a combination of psychological well‐being and distress indicators, and there is no clear consensus on the possible differences by sex. Therefore, the aims of this study were to analyze the association between the dual‐factor model of mental health and academic performance and to analyze sex differences in a sample of secondary school students. The sample was formed by a total of 265 adolescents (126 females) aged 13.9 ± 0.3 years old, from the DADOS study. Mental health status was self‐reported through the Behavior Assessment System for Children and Adolescents. Academic performance was assessed through academic grades and the Test of Educational Ability. The findings showed that the emotional symptoms index was negatively associated with academic grades. Psychological well‐being was positively associated with academic grades, while psychological distress was negatively associated with academic grades, except for anxiety. Stratified analyses by sex showed largely similar results. These results expand the current knowledge, supporting the idea that promoting mental health during adolescence could help to enhance academic grades.
Short‐Term Oral Administration of the Porcupine Inhibitor, Wnt‐c59, Improves the Structural and Functional Features of Experimental HFpEF
Authors: Paul Mhairi A. , Wainwright Cherry L. , Hector Emma E. , Ryberg Erik , Leslie Stephen J. , Walsh Sarah K.
Published: January 2025

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) accounts for approximately 50% of heart failure cases globally, and this incidence is increasing due to extended lifespans and accumulating comorbidities. Emerging evidence suggests that Wnt signaling plays a role in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis, which are key features of HFpEF. Furthermore, Porcupine (PORCN) inhibitors, which negatively regulate Wnt signaling, have shown promising results in improving cardiac function and reducing cardiac hypertrophy and/or fibrosis. This study investigated whether acute oral administration of the PORCN inhibitor, Wnt‐c59, alters the maladaptive structural and/or functional features in a mouse model of HFpEF. Male mice were given a high‐fat diet and L‐NAME (0.5 g L−1) in drinking water for 5 weeks, followed by a 2‐week intervention of orally administered Wnt‐c59 (5 mg kg−1 day−1). HFpEF mice were characterized by hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, and diastolic dysfunction, although there was no evidence of activation of Wnt signaling in the heart. Despite this, short‐term treatment of HFpEF mice with Wnt‐c59 ameliorated adverse cardiac remodeling by increasing the ratio of the more compliant collagen type 3 to that of the more tensile collagen type 1 in the heart. Furthermore, Wnt‐c59 also improved diastolic dysfunction, which was associated with the increased cardiac expression of brain natriuretic peptide, a known promoter of ventricular compliance. Our findings demonstrate that even short‐term administration of a PORCN inhibitor improves both the structural and functional features of experimental HFpEF.
Alpine greening deciphered by forest stand and structure dynamics in advancing treelines of the southwestern European Alps
Authors: Bayle Arthur , Nicoud Baptiste , Mansons Jérôme , Francon Loïc , Corona Christophe , Choler Philippe
Published: January 2025

Multidecadal time series of satellite observations, such as those from Landsat, offer the possibility to study trends in vegetation greenness at unprecedented spatial and temporal scales. Alpine ecosystems have exhibited large increases in vegetation greenness as seen from space; nevertheless, the ecological processes underlying alpine greening have rarely been investigated. Here, we used a unique dataset of forest stand and structure characteristics derived from manually orthorectified high‐resolution diachronic images (1983 and 2018), dendrochronology and LiDAR analysis to decipher the ecological processes underlying alpine greening in the southwestern French Alps, formerly identified as a hotspot of greening at the scale of the European Alps by previous studies. We found that most of the alpine greening in this area can be attributed to forest dynamics, including forest ingrowth and treeline upward shift. Furthermore, we showed that the magnitude of the greening was highest in pixels/areas where trees were first established at the beginning of the Landsat time series in the mid‐80s corresponding to a specific forest successional stage. In these pixels, we observe that trees from the first wave of establishment have grown between 1984 and 2023, while over the same period, younger trees established in forest gaps, leading to increases in both vertical and horizontal vegetation cover. This study provides an in‐depth description of the causal relationship between forest dynamics and greening, providing a unique example of how ecological processes translate into radiometric signals, while also paving the way for the study of large‐scale treeline dynamics using satellite remote sensing.
Impact of Teachers With Research Experiences: Student Gains in STEM Career Awareness, Perception of Value of STEM Learning, and Persistence in STEM Course Tasks
Authors: Keller John , Buxner Sanlyn , Donnelly‐Hermosillo Dermot , Bailey Elsa , Citkowicz Martyna , Horvath Larry , Moreno Dan , Yisak Melissa , Zhu Bo , Fulbeck Eleanor , Sessoms Deidre , Vokos Stamatis , Chen Charlotte , Pardo Max
Published: January 2025

Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) programs are a burgeoning approach to engage teachers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) research that they can translate into their K‐12 classrooms. Despite an increase in studies of RETs, there is a need for comparison of RET and non‐RET teachers' student outcomes. This mixed methods, quasi‐experimental comparison study, using a revised third‐generation activity theory framework, investigates how an RET program for preservice and early career STEM teachers impacted participating teachers and their students up to 8 years after RET participation. Specifically, we conducted a matched comparison of student achievement data from students of nine RET teachers versus many non‐RET comparison teachers within the same districts (n = 830–1132 students). We also investigated student and teacher perceptions of classroom practices through surveys (n = 576 students) and interviews (15 teacher interviews). Omnibus tests revealed no statistically significant differences by treatment in math or science achievement. However, students of the RET teachers reported stronger perceptions of STEM career awareness, greater value for learning STEM subjects, and a greater propensity to persist in STEM course tasks (three of the five constructs measured). This was consistent with teacher interview responses in which RET teachers spoke about STEM career awareness in a broader context for understanding the value of STEM in society, and also discussed struggles in research and attempts to bring this mindset to their students, which may have resulted in greater student engagement in their courses. Implications for teacher education and for supporting science and engineering practices in STEM classrooms are discussed along with recommendations for further research on the impacts of RET programs guided by a revised third‐generation activity theory framework informed by this work.