bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary thyroid B‐cell lymphoma: molecular insights into its clonal evolution and relapse
Authors: Tzioni Maria‐Myrsini , Watanabe Natsuko , Chen Zi , Wu Fangtian , Madej Ewelina , Makker Jasmine , Guo Sarah , Attygalle Ayoma D , Wotherspoon Andrew , Sugino Kiminori , Ito Koichi , Du Ming‐Qing
Published: December 2024

Primary thyroid lymphomas comprise largely extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (EMZL) and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), followed by follicular lymphoma (FL). They commonly develop from a background of Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), where dysregulated immune responses trigger autoreactive infiltrates and drive clonal B‐cell evolution. To understand how these lymphomas and their relapse evolve, we investigated 10 cases by mutation profiling, including five with metachronous lymphomas [primary lymphoma (EMZL = 4, DLBCL = 1) with local relapse (EMZL = 3, DLBCL = 2)], one composite EMZL and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐positive DLBCL, and four lymphomas (EMZL = 3, FL = 1) with prior or subsequent biopsy showing HT. In four cases with metachronous lymphomas, both common and distinct variants were seen in the paired lesions, indicating their divergent evolution from clonally related lymphoma precursor (CLP) cells. In the remaining case with metachronous lymphomas, the relapsed lesion was progressed from the initial lymphoma. In the case with composite lymphoma, the EBV‐positive DLBCL was transformed from EMZL. Finally, in the four cases with paired lymphoma and HT biopsies, two showed shared mutations between the paired lesions, indicating involvement and divergent evolution from CLP cells. Thyroid lymphoma relapse may frequently develop via divergent evolution from a CLP cell, which is likely premalignant. © 2024 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Comparison and analysis of measurements for crystallinity of PEEK and CF/PEEK composites
Authors: Lu Chunrui , Xu Chuang , Lu Xue , Ji Weichang , Li Siqi , Ma Ji , Ba Shuhong
Published: December 2024

PEEK and CF/PEEK are two significant materials whose properties are intricately linked to their crystallization behavior. This study employed three analytical techniques—density method, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and x‐ray diffraction (XRD)—to explore and quantify the crystallinity of Poly (ether ether ketone) (PEEK) and its composites. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to determine the resin content of the composites, which is essential for the density and DSC methods. The density method, based on Archimedes' principle, calculated both mass and volume crystallinity. DSC assessed crystallinity by analyzing differences in melting enthalpy, while XRD determined crystallinity through diffraction patterns and peak analysis. The results demonstrate that these three techniques can be effectively utilized for calculating the crystallinity of PEEK and its composites. Using the density method, PEEK exhibited a crystallinity of (26.53 ± 1.30)% by mass and (24.57 ± 1.24)% by volume. The prepreg, CF/PEEK, and CF/PEEK‐AA1 composites showed enhanced crystallinity values. Crystallinity calculated by DSC was 29.16% for PEEK, 55.35% for prepreg, 55.48% for CF/PEEK, and 53.50% for CF/PEEK‐AA1. XRD results provided crystallinity values of 46.35% for PEEK, 63.20% for prepreg, 64.80% for CF/PEEK, and 66.57% for CF/PEEK‐AA1, along with detailed information about unit cells and crystal planes. This study contributes to a better understanding of these methods, paving the way for future refinement and integration, thereby improving the precision of crystallinity determination.

Highlights

Crystallinity study of PEEK and CF/PEEK composites by density, DSC and XRD methods.

Crystallinity calculated by methods in different principles are irrelevant.

Crystallinity estimated by density and DSC requires resin content.

Information on crystal and crystallinity can be obtained by XRD independently.

Crystallinity calculated by XRD is the highest.

Results obtained by density and DSC method are close.
Spatial Distribution and Comparative Analysis of Differential Metabolites in Curcuma longa L. Roots and Rhizomes Using UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS Combined With DESI‐MSI
Authors: Wang Jin , Zhu Ying , Wu Chuyue , Huang Qinwan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The roots and rhizomes of Curcuma longa L. serve as distinct traditional Chinese medicines with varying therapeutic effects, likely attributed to differences in the accumulation and distribution of metabolites in these parts.

Objective

The study aims to investigate the differences and spatial distribution patterns of metabolites in C. longa L. roots and rhizomes.

Methods

Metabolite analysis of roots and rhizomes was conducted using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadruple orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS) combined with desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI‐MSI). Using principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) to screen for differential metabolites. The relative contents of differential metabolites were visualized using heat maps. Additionally, the spatial distribution of differential metabolites was analyzed based on DESI‐MSI.

Results

A total of 49 main chemical components were identified in roots and rhizomes using UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS. Through nontargeted metabolomics analysis combining UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS with PCA and OPLS‐DA, 24 differential markers were identified; Additionally, using DESI‐MSI alongside PCA and OPLS‐DA, 18 differential markers were selected. Based on the DESI‐MSI results, curcuminoids and sesquiterpenoids, including bisdemethoxycurcumin, demethoxycurcumin, furanodienone, furanogermenone, furanodiene, β‐elemene, and curzerene, were more abundant in the rhizomes compared to the roots. And these differential compounds exhibited spatial distribution differences in the epidermis, phloem, and xylem between the roots and rhizomes.

Conclusion

The metabolomics analysis using UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS combined with DESI‐MSI suggest differences in the accumulation and spatial distribution of metabolites in C. longa L. roots and rhizomes, possibly related to the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites.
Flame‐Retardant Self‐Healing Polymers: A Review
Authors: Kianfar M. , Ipakchi H. , Mohajer S. , Rasoulifard M. H. , Seyed Dorraji M. S. , Louaguef D. B. , Azat S. , Saeb M. R. , Vahabi H.
Published: December 2024

Developing multifunctional flame retardants (FRs) has become a strategy to reply on needs for advanced polymers. Self‐healing polymers are an emerging class of advanced polymeric materials, which have been upgraded progressively, and recently have taken the advantage of fire safety. Correspondingly, diverse industries like aerospace, automotive, construction and consumer electronics are benefited from flame‐retardant self‐healing polymeric materials, which underlines their increasing contribution to modern technologies. The self‐healing characteristics stem from intricate chemical and physical interactions, adopting self‐directed repair mechanisms leading to eliminating the need for frequent replacements, subsequently lowering maintenance costs and environmental impact. This review summarizes advantages of self‐healing polymers with emphasis on exploring highly innovative advancements among bio‐based hydrogels, aerogels, coatings, thin films, lithium‐ion batteries and advanced ionotronic skin (‐i‐skin) structures embedding sensing features for smoke detection and flame exposure warnings, further broadening their application in smart technologies and safety‐critical infrastructure. The outcomes of reports outline challenges remaining in developing such multifaceted materials in view of lack of information due to limited or exclusive investigations. However, further research may facilitate exploring dehydration, thermal shielding, and free radical quenching mechanisms contributing to flame retardancy performance of flame‐retardant self‐healing polymers. Sustainability and circular economy requirements are briefly discussed, in addition to outlining remarks on future developments.
A Novel Strategy to Prepare Hierarchically Porous Phenolic Resin‐Based Carbon Aerogel With Excellent Adsorption Performance
Authors: Zhang Qiaomu , Liu Lehao , Wu Zhuoheng , He Shaojian
Published: December 2024

Carbon aerogel (CA), derived from phenolic (resorcinol and formaldehyde) resin, has being regarded as a promising porous adsorbent for water purification. In this study, we provided an effective strategy for preparing CA with a hierarchical porous microstructure. Acetic acid was introduced as an additive in the precursor solution to modify the microstructure of the xerogel, followed by KOH activation to further transform it into a hierarchical porous structure. The specific surface area of the hierarchical porous CA reached up to 1205.44 m2/g with a total pore volume exceeding 1.60 cm3/g. Consequently, the CA demonstrated an excellent adsorption rate, reaching adsorption equilibrium in approximately 240 min and exhibited a remarkable maximum dye adsorption capacity of 1.25 times its own mass. Furthermore, the adsorption processes of the CA for dye adhered to the second‐order kinetic model and the Langmuir isotherm model. This study provided an effective approach to preparing hierarchical porous CA for efficient adsorption of organic pollutants for water purification.
Prevalence of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Duca Ana Paula , da Silva Rayane Délcia , Ribeiro Marcos , Gonçalves Flávio Magno , Taveira Karinna Veríssimo Meira , Filho Odilon Guariza , Zeigelboim Bianca Simone , de Araujo Cristiano Miranda , Santos Rosane Sampaio
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aims to determine the prevalence of oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) in children, as diagnosed through instrumental evaluation, and to identify associated risk factors.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across six databases (Embase, LILACS, LIVIVO, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science), as well as gray literature sources (ASHA, Google Scholar, and ProQuest). Studies involving children (under 12 years of age), diagnosed using instrumental methods such as videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), were included. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed to estimate the prevalence, with heterogeneity assessed through meta‐regression. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist.

Results

A total of 31 studies were included, yielding a pooled prevalence estimate of 69% (95% CI: 61%–77%; I² = 94%). Most studies involved children with predisposing conditions, potentially contributing to an overestimation of OD prevalence in the general pediatric population. Four studies were assessed as having a moderate risk of bias, while
27 were rated as having a low risk of bias.

Conclusion

The findings suggest a high prevalence of OD, especially in children with underlying health conditions. These results underscore the importance of early diagnosis and tailored interventions to mitigate the health risks associated with deglutition disorders in pediatric populations.
An in silico framework to visualize how cancer‐associated mutations influence structural plasticity of the chemokine receptor CCR3
Authors: van Aalst Evan J. , Wylie Benjamin J.
Published: December 2024

G protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell surface receptors in humans. Somatic mutations in GPCRs are implicated in cancer progression and metastasis, but mechanisms are poorly understood. Emerging evidence implicates perturbation of intra‐receptor activation pathway motifs whereby extracellular signals are transmitted intracellularly. Recently, sufficiently sensitive methodology was described to calculate structural strain as a function of missense mutations in AlphaFold‐predicted model structures, which was extensively validated on experimental and predicted structural datasets. When paired with Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations, these tools provide a facile approach to screen mutations in silico. We applied this framework to calculate the structural and dynamic effects of cancer‐associated mutations in the chemokine receptor CCR3, a Class A GPCR involved in cancer and autoimmune disorders. Residue‐residue contact scoring refined effective strain results, highlighting significant remodeling of inter‐ and intra‐motif contacts along the highly conserved GPCR activation pathway network. We then integrated AlphaFold‐derived predicted Local Distance Difference Test scores with per‐residue Root Mean Square Fluctuations and activation pathway Contact Analysis (CONAN) from coarse grain MD simulations to identify statistically significant changes in receptor dynamics upon mutation. Finally, analysis of negative control mutants suggests false positive results in AlphaFold pipelines should be considered but can be mitigated with stricter control of statistical analysis. Our results indicate selected mutants influence structural plasticity of CCR3 related to ligand interaction, activation, and G protein coupling, using a framework that could be applicable to a wide range of biochemically relevant protein targets following further validation.
Allosteric regulation of the tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B by a protein–protein interaction
Authors: Chartier Cassandra A. , Woods Virgil A. , Xu Yunyao , van Vlimmeren Anne E. , Johns Andrew C. , Jovanovic Marko , McDermott Ann E. , Keedy Daniel A. , Shah Neel H.
Published: December 2024

The rapid identification of protein–protein interactions has been significantly enabled by mass spectrometry (MS) proteomics‐based methods, including affinity purification‐MS, crosslinking‐MS, and proximity‐labeling proteomics. While these methods can reveal networks of interacting proteins, they cannot reveal how specific protein–protein interactions alter protein function or cell signaling. For instance, when two proteins interact, there can be emergent signaling processes driven purely by the individual activities of those proteins being co‐localized. Alternatively, protein–protein interactions can allosterically regulate function, enhancing or suppressing activity in response to binding. In this work, we investigate the interaction between the tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B and the adaptor protein Grb2, which have been annotated as binding partners in a number of proteomics studies. This interaction has been postulated to co‐localize PTP1B with its substrate IRS‐1 by forming a ternary complex, thereby enhancing the dephosphorylation of IRS‐1 to suppress insulin signaling. Here, we report that Grb2 binding to PTP1B also allosterically enhances PTP1B catalytic activity. We show that this interaction is dependent on the proline‐rich region of PTP1B, which interacts with the C‐terminal SH3 domain of Grb2. Using NMR spectroscopy and hydrogen‐deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX‐MS) we show that Grb2 binding alters PTP1B structure and/or dynamics. Finally, we use MS proteomics to identify other interactors of the PTP1B proline‐rich region that may also regulate PTP1B function similarly to Grb2. This work presents one of the first examples of a protein allosterically regulating the enzymatic activity of PTP1B and lays the foundation for discovering new mechanisms of PTP1B regulation in cell signaling.
The structural influence of the oncogenic driver mutation N642H in the STAT5B SH2 domain
Authors: Haas‐Neill Liam , Meneksedag‐Erol Deniz , Chaudhry Ayesha , Novoselova Masha , Ashraf Qirat F. , de Araujo Elvin D. , Wilson Derek J. , Rauscher Sarah
Published: December 2024

The point mutation N642H of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 5B (STAT5B) protein is associated with aggressive and drug‐resistant forms of leukemia. This mutation is thought to promote cancer due to hyperactivation of STAT5B caused by increased stability of the active, parallel dimer state. However, the molecular mechanism leading to this stabilization is not well understood as there is currently no structure of the parallel dimer. To investigate the mutation's mechanism of action, we conducted extensive all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations of multiple oligomeric forms of both STAT5B and STAT5BN642H, including a model for the parallel dimer. The N642H mutation directly affects the hydrogen bonding network within the phosphotyrosine (pY)‐binding pocket of the parallel dimer, enhancing the pY‐binding interaction. The simulations indicate that apo STAT5B is highly flexible, exploring a diverse conformational space. In contrast, apo STAT5BN642H accesses two distinct conformational states, one of which resembles the conformation of the parallel dimer. The simulation predictions of the effects of the mutation on structure and dynamics are supported by the results of hydrogen‐deuterium exchange (HDX) mass spectrometry measurements carried out on STAT5B and STAT5BN642H in which a phosphopeptide was used to mimic the effects of parallel dimerization on the SH2 domain. The molecular‐level information uncovered in this work contributes to our understanding of STAT5B hyperactivation by the N642H mutation and could help pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies targeting this mutation.
Egg‐Rack‐Like Active Magnetomechanical Metamaterial
Authors: Galea Mifsud Russell , Dudek Krzysztof K. , Farrugia Pierre‐Sandre , Grima Joseph N. , Gatt Ruben
Published: December 2024

Over the years, researchers have investigated active metamaterials because of controllability of their geometry and mechanical properties. However, despite the undeniable appeal and significance of this direction of studies from the perspective of many industries, researchers have struggled to systematically design such structures in an easily reproducible and scalable manner. Herein, it is shown that this can be achieved by harnessing the potential of foldable magnetomechanical metamaterials controlled via the external magnetic field. To this aim, two different configurations of the system with one of them being constrained so that it acts similarly to a linear actuator while the other one allows to fully control its expandability and mechanical properties in all directions are presented. Finally, the possibility of stacking the considered structures to create large systems that may exhibit auxetic properties in multiple planes will be discussed. The magnetomechanical metamaterials discussed are very interesting as they offer multidirectional and finely controlled movement which could be untethered. This is particularly promising for use in actuators, vibration dampers as well as scaffolds in deployable structures and impact resistive materials as the mechanical properties can be fine‐tuned by simply adjusting the external magnetic field and reconfiguring the structure.
A Phase I Dose‐Finding Design Incorporating Intra‐Patient Dose Escalation
Authors: Guo Beibei , Liu Suyu
Published: December 2024

Conventional Phase I trial designs assign a single dose to each patient, necessitating a minimum number of patients per dose to reliably identify the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). However, in many clinical trials, such as those involving pediatric patients or patients with rare cancers, recruiting an adequate number of patients can pose challenges, limiting the applicability of standard trial designs. To address this challenge, we propose a new Phase I dose‐finding design, denoted as IP‐CRM, that integrates intra‐patient dose escalation with the continual reassessment method (CRM). In the IP‐CRM design, intra‐patient dose escalation is allowed, guided by both individual patients' toxicity outcomes and accumulated data across patients, and the starting dose for each cohort of patients is adaptively updated. We further extend the IP‐CRM design to address carryover effects and/or intra‐patient correlations. Due to the potential for each patient to contribute multiple data points at varying doses owing to intra‐patient dose escalation, the IP‐CRM design offers the advantage of determining the MTD with a considerably reduced sample size compared to standard Phase I dose‐finding designs. Simulation studies show that our IP‐CRM design can efficiently reduce sample size while concurrently enhancing the probability of identifying the MTD when compared with standard CRM designs and the 3 + 3 design.
Fractional Approach for Diffusion Equations Arising From Oil Pollution Using the Fractional Natural Decomposition Method
Authors: Düşünceli Faruk , Çelik Ercan
Published: December 2024

The main goal is to use the fractional natural decomposition approach to solve diffusion equations related to oil pollution. We examine a model that depicts the evolution of chemical processes in a network that burns helium. Elegant consolidations of nature transform with Adomian decomposition method are made possible by the Caputo operator with fractional order taken into consideration and hired algorithm. We looked at the expected model in a different sequence using fraction to show the expected algorithm's proficiency. Moreover, plots for various arbitrary orders have taken use of the physical characteristics of the obtained results. The obtained findings verify that the algorithm under consideration is highly efficient, methodical, straightforward to use, and accurate in examining the characteristics of the fractional differential system connected to related fields.
Time Dependent Clinical Predictive Model of Maternal Complications, Based on Placental Angiogenic Biomarkers: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Di Martino Daniela D. , Sabattini Elisa , Giardini Valentina , Tine Gabriele , Sterpi Vittoria , Lonardoni Maria Chiara , Acampora Eleonora , Zaccone Elena , Radaelli Tatjana , Ossola Manuela W. , Vergani Patrizia , Ferrazzi Enrico , Stampalija Tamara
Published: December 2024

Objective

To develop a prediction model for maternal adverse outcomes in high‐risk pregnant populations based on clinical history, biophysical parameters, and placental angiogenic biomarkers.

Design

Prospective, observational, and multicenter study.

Setting

Two university hospitals in Northern Italy.

Population

Women affected by hypertensive disorder of pregnangy (HDP) and/or foetal growth restriction (FGR).

Methods

Fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFlt‐1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) were measured at recruitment. First, the whole cohort was stratified according to sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio risk categories. Second, the Cox Model was adapted with sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio integrated as a continuous variable together with demographic, clinical and biophysical risk factors to develop a prediction model for the maternal adverse outcomes (severe pre‐eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, abruptio placenta and liver haematoma).

Results

We recruited 335 consecutive singleton high‐risk pregnancies (109 with HDP, 95 with HDP‐FGR, and 131 with FGR). Seventy‐one of these developed severe‐pre‐eclampsia, 11 suffered from placental abruption and seven developed HELLP syndrome. At survival analysis, the probability to develop adverse outcomes was significantly different between patients with medium (38–85, 38–110) to very high (> 85/110) sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio compared to those with low sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio (< 38). The Cox multivariable clinical model was significantly associated with maternal complications: the area under the curve was 89.5% after 1 week, 93.8% after 2 weeks, 93.7% after 4 weeks and 96.1% after 8 weeks.

Conclusions

In a cohort of women with HDP and/or FGR, a prediction model, based on demographic, clinical, biophysical risk factors and sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio, can predict the risk of developing maternal complications from the time at diagnosis and up to 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks. The inclusion of sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio, as a continuous variable, significantly improved the risk prediction.
Adaptive Fuzzy Fault‐Tolerant Control for CSTR With State Constraints Dependent on Temperature and Concentration
Authors: Ma Yinqiao , Liu Lei , Li Dapeng , Li Dongjuan
Published: December 2024

The indispensable experimental equipment of the continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) is crucial in chemical production processes. This paper presents a novel adaptive state‐dependent constraint control method for nonlinear CSTR system. The CSTR system is transformed into the nonlinear system with a pure feedback structure begins with the mean value theorem. Subsequently, the Fuzzy logic systems (FLS) is used to approximate unknown dynamics. Reactant concentration and mixture temperature are crucial variables in CSTR system. When these variables surpass the specified constraints, it can lead to a decrease in product quality and yield. The constraint boundaries considered in this paper are dependent on both state and time. Therefore, the time‐varying asymmetric Barrier Lyapunov Function (BLF) is proposed to deal with state‐dependent constraints. Additionally, the actuator fault is resolved in this paper, by considering fault‐tolerant control strategy. Lyapunov stability analysis shows that all signals in a closed‐loop system are bounded. Finally, the effectiveness of the control scheme is verified by the simulation of CSTR system.
Frequency Shaping for Improving a Trade‐Off Between Control and Privacy Performance: Beyond Differential Privacy
Authors: Watanabe Rintaro , Kawano Yu , Wada Nobutaka , Cao Ming
Published: December 2024

In privacy protection of control systems, a trade‐off between control performance and privacy level is often pointed out. Our goal in this paper is to improve this trade‐off by shaping the frequency of noise added for privacy protection when the control objective is to track a reference signal, which is taken as a piece of information whose privacy needs to be preserved. Frequency shaping of noise is achieved by passing it through a filter, thus generating noise via a dynamical system. To deal with such noise in privacy analysis, we provide a novel condition related to differential privacy, which shows that differential privacy is less effective in evaluating privacy performance in the frequency domain. To demonstrate privacy protection using frequency information, we discuss filter design in terms of the power spectrum of an estimation of private information, enabling us to obscure its power spectrum in order to preserve privacy. Furthermore, taking control performance into account, we formulate filter design to balance the trade‐off as a standard control problem. The effectiveness of the proposed method, compared with simply adding i.i.d. noise, is illustrated by numerical simulation.
A Unified Topological Representation for Robotic Fleets in Agricultural Applications
Authors: Das Gautham , Cielniak Grzegorz , Heselden James , Pearson Simon , Duchetto Francesco Del , Zhu Zuyuan , Dichtl Johann , Hanheide Marc , Fentanes Jaime Pulido , Binch Adam , Hutchinson Michael , From Pal
Published: December 2024

Agricultural robots offer a viable solution to the critical challenges of productivity and sustainability of modern agriculture. The widespread deployment of agricultural robotic fleets, however, is still hindered by the overall system's complexity, requiring the integration of several nontrivial components for the operation of each robot but also the orchestration of robots working with each other and human workers. This paper proposes a topological map as the unifying representation and computational model to facilitate the smooth deployment of robotic fleets in agriculture. This topological abstraction of the system state (probabilistic estimates of the functional states and locations of the agents in the environment abstracted to the topological map representations—e.g., human picker at a node and robot traversing on edge ) results in an efficient representation of large‐scale environments (in many hectares), but also offers the scalable and efficient operation of the entire fleet and allows for ex situ modeling and analysis of operations. The practical use of the proposed framework is demonstrated in a horticultural use case with a fleet of robots supporting the work of human fruit pickers. The critical components of the system are analyzed and evaluated in deployment in both realistic digital twin and real‐life soft fruit farms of different scales, demonstrating the scalability and effectiveness of the proposed framework. The presented framework is general and should be easy to adopt in other multirobot/multihuman scenarios, such as warehouse logistics, cleaning, and maintenance of public spaces.
Political and Institutional Dynamics of Global Female Labor Force Participation: Discovering the Role of Women Political Participation
Authors: Saha Tanaya , Singh Prakash
Published: December 2024

The global nonattainment of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 indicates the issue of rising gender inequality. The educated women shying away from the labor force is worsening it. The institutional and political dynamics of an economy might shape the female labor force participation. A gender‐inclusive policy environment involving these factors should drive the educated women in joining the labor force. The female political representation might shape this policy dynamics. However, the absence of a benchmark policy framework is restraining the realization of this objective. The present study has attempted to develop this policy framework by analyzing the aforesaid dynamics across 125 countries over 1990–2020. The study outcomes obtained via elasticity modeling show that realigning the institutional and political dynamics is necessary to ensure the labor force participation of educated women. The women political participation is found to catalyze this policy objective. The study outcomes are utilized to develop a policy framework for attaining the objectives of SDG 5.
Computational and Spectroscopic Study of Newly Synthesized Bio‐Active Azo Dyes: DFT, Solvatochromism, and Preferential Solvation
Authors: U. Renuka , Nehal Subhani Khanam , N. M. Mallikarjuna , K. Vibha , S. M. Arun Kumar , H. M. Suresh Kumar , Javuku Thipperudrappa
Published: December 2024

The computational, solvatochromism, and preferential solvation studies have been carried out on newly synthesized bio‐active azo dye molecules, namely 5‐[(E)‐(1,5‐dimethyl‐3‐oxo‐2‐phenyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)diazenyl]‐6‐hydroxy‐4‐methyl‐2‐oxo‐1,2‐dihydropyridine‐3‐carbonitrile (A1) and 5‐[(E)‐(1,5‐dimethyl‐3‐oxo‐2‐phenyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)diazenyl]‐6‐hydroxy‐1,4‐dimethyl‐2‐oxo‐1,2‐dihydropyridine‐3‐carbonitrile (A2). The electronic properties, chemical reactivity, and optical characteristics of the dye molecules have been computed using density functional theory (DFT). These findings suggest that the dye molecules are chemically active and show their suitability in NLO applications. The computations related to light‐harvesting properties have been carried out on the dye molecules. The ADME properties of the dye molecules have been evaluated using SwissADME and PreADMET online tools. The solvatochromic behavior of dye molecules has been investigated using Lippert's and Reichardt's solvent polarity parameters. The dye molecules' dielectric interactions and hydrogen bonding characteristics are analyzed using the Catalan multiple regression approach. The findings of the solvatochromic studies suggest the potentiality of the molecules in polarity sensing applications. Additionally, the solvatochromic data has been exploited to determine the excited state dipole moments using various solvatochromic approaches. The HOMO‐LUMO energy values, absorption wavelengths, light‐harvesting properties, and excited state dipole moments of the synthesized dye molecules indicate their suitability in dye‐sensitized solar cell applications. The preferential solvation studies of dye molecules have been conducted in a DCM–DMSO solvent mixture.
Vilsmeier–Haack Reagent‐Catalyzed C4(sp2)─H Formylation in Thiophene Derivatives: Insights into Unexpected Fluorescence Properties
Authors: Missoum Hadjer , Datoussaid Yazid , Ziani‐Cherif Chewki , Seijas Julio A. , Vázquez‐Tato M. Pilar , Choukchou‐Braham Noureddine
Published: December 2024

A simple and efficient method was developed to prepare the novel fluorescent tetra‐substituted thiophene derivatives. This method involves using the Gewald's conditions, followed by the Vilsmeier–Haack–Arnold (VHA) formylation. By judiciously controlling the use of the VHA reagent, we have selectively introduced a formyl group into position 5 of the thiophene. This had a direct impact on its fluorescence properties. The resulting compounds have showed an intense fluorescence in the emission wavelength range of 420–500 nm with a 10−6  M concentration. All new products have been structurally confirmed by spectroscopic data. The structure of compound 2g was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction.
Harnessing ROS Amplification and GSH Depletion Using a Carrier‐Free Nanodrug to Enhance Ferroptosis‐Based Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang Huiru , Shan Guisong , Liu Mengyu , Sun Qiuting , Yang Tianhao , Peng Rui , Li Xueqian , Mei Yuxiao , He Xiaoyan , Qiao Lei
Published: December 2024

Ferroptosis, a non‐apoptotic form of cell death characterized by the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and massive accumulation of lipid peroxidation (LPO), shows significant promise in cancer therapy. However, the overexpression of glutathione (GSH) at the tumor site and insufficient ROS often result in unsatisfactory therapeutic efficacy. A multistage, GSH‐consuming, and ROS‐providing carrier‐free nanodrug capable of efficiently loading copper ions (Cu2+), sorafenib (SRF), and chlorogenic acid (CGA) (Cu2+‐CGA‐SRF, CCS‐NDs) is developed to mediate enhanced ferroptosis therapy. Through a reductive intracellular environment, Cu2+ in the CCS‐NDs reacted with intracellular GSH, alleviating the antioxidant capacity of tumor tissues and triggering the release of drugs. Meanwhile, the released SRF inhibited system xc−, thereby blocking cystine uptake and reducing GSH synthesis in tumor cells. By depleting stored GSH and inhibiting its synthesis, CCS‐NDs achieved efficient GSH depletion and increased accumulation of toxic LPO. More importantly, the high concentration of CGA in the CCS‐NDs induced ROS generation, further promoting ferroptosis. Both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrated that CCS‐NDs effectively triggered ferroptosis in tumor cells by inactivating glutathione peroxidase 4 and inducing LPO. Overall, the carrier‐free nanodrug CCS‐NDs offer a promising strategy for regulating GSH and LPO levels in ferroptosis‐based cancer therapy.
Scalable Top‐Down Approach for Recycling Highly Degraded Spent LiFePO4 via Lattice Fragmentation‐Regeneration
Authors: Wang Junwei , Ji Shuaijing , Zhao Yuzhen , Han Qigao , Wang Fengqian , Sha Wuxin , Cheng Danpeng , Zhang Weixin , Tang Shun , Cao Yuan‐Cheng , Cheng Shijie
Published: December 2024

Designing efficient, scalable, and eco‐friendly recycling technologies is crucial for addressing the widespread decommissioning of spent lithium‐ion batteries. Here, an innovative top‐down regeneration method is introduced to rejuvenate highly degraded LiFePO4. Initially, the crystal structure of spent LiFePO4 is destroyed via the oxidation process, followed by the reconstruction of the LiFePO4 lattice through the reduction process. The regenerated LiFePO4 features a uniform particle size and an intact crystal lattice, leading to substantial improvements in electrochemical performance. Specifically, it achieves a capacity of 142.6 mAh g−1 at 1 C, significantly surpassing the spent LiFePO4 (only 55.6 mAh g−1 at 1 C). Furthermore, it demonstrates an exceptional retention of 86.7% after 450 cycles, in contrast to 55.8% retention of commercial LiFePO4. More importantly, spent LiFePO4 with varying degrees of degradation is successfully regenerated using this technology, confirming its scalability. Therefore, this research highlights a transformative and sustainable approach to LiFePO4 regeneration, achieving splendid advancements in both electrochemical performance and cycle stability, and offers a novel pathway for the effective recycling of LiFePO4‐based energy storage systems.
Super Tough Multifunctional MXene/PAA‐CS Double Network Hydrogels with High Mechanical Sensing Properties and Excellent EMI Shielding Performance
Authors: Mei Lin , Ouyang Wenchong , Xu Limin , Huang Yuanlong , Liu Qi , Bai Yu , Lu Quanming , Luo Tianzhi , Wu Zhengwei
Published: December 2024

Hydrogels present significant potential in flexible materials designed for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, attributed to their soft, stretchable mechanical properties and water‐rich porous structures. Unfortunately, EMI shielding hydrogels commonly suffer from low mechanical properties, deficient fracture energy, and low strength, which limit the serviceability of these materials in complex mechanical environments. In this study, the double network strategy is successfully utilized along with the Hofmeister effect to create MXene/PAA (polyacrylic acid)‐CS (chitosan) hydrogels and further strengthen and toughen the gel with (NH4)2SO4 solution. The gel exhibits enhanced functionalities such as outstanding stretchability, excellent strain sensitivity (11.66), and super fracture energy (≥9 kJ m−2). Notably, it demonstrates outstanding shielding effectiveness of 73.8 dB in the terahertz (THz) range, and the shielding properties can be effectively tuned by varying the MXene content, the (NH4)2SO4 concentration, and the thickness of the hydrogel. Additionally, the gel shows robust and superior shielding effectiveness after repeated stretching and long‐term dehydration. The MXene/PAA‐CS double‐network (DN) hydrogels would be an excellent candidate for EMI shielding materials in advanced flexible electronic equipment and soft robots.
A New Feature‐Based Biometric Identification System in IoT‐Powered Smart Cities Using a Hybrid Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Darbandi Mehdi , Ehsani Ali , Bahrami Farzad , Moghadamnia Elham , Abnoosian Karlo , Mohammed Bayan Omar
Published: December 2024

The pervasive expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT) year after year has facilitated widespread sensing capabilities across various domains. Consequently, heightened concerns have arisen regarding authentication and security measures. There is a growing focus on biometrics in the realm of human identification applications, particularly in the context of advancing biometric‐enhanced IoT applications. This trend is garnering increasing attention as it unfolds. As new technologies have developed, biometric‐based identification has been seen as an effective way to automatically identify people because of its uniqueness and impossibility of fabricating it. Biometric identity systems make secure authentication and access management possible. However, due to their almost identical physical traits, one of the biggest problems with conventional systems is being able to tell between identical twins. This fact frequently results in high false acceptance rates, putting the system's security at risk. Thus, a solution is addressed in this work by applying a multi‐biometric identification method based on unique feature levels. Moreover, the accuracy and robustness of the biometric identifications are further enhanced both with Real Coded Genetic Algorithm (RCGA) and Fish Swarm Algorithm (FSA). RCGA is employed as a global search to explore the promising solution space and guide the solution toward the global optimal region. The algorithm exploits the capability of AFSA, serving as a local search to secure the final optimal solution. Besides, the proposed method enhances the system's discriminative power, enabling an identification more precise and trustworthy. Therefore, this work greatly contributes to the advancement of biometric identification systems and the increase of accuracy in various fields.
Challenges and Prospects of Microporous Membranes for High‐Temperature Hydrogen Separation
Authors: Jin Xiaoheng , Wu Xing , Ng Derrick , Freeman Benny D. , He Tao , Xie Zongli
Published: December 2024

The development of microporous membranes for high‐temperature hydrogen (H2) separation is crucial for advancing hydrogen as a clean energy source. This review critically evaluates recent progress in materials and technologies designed for H2 separation at elevated temperatures, focusing on the challenges and prospects of microporous H2 separation membranes derived from silica, zeolites, carbon molecular sieves, and metal–organic frameworks. Key challenges in membrane performance at elevated temperatures, including defect formation and hydrothermal stability, are examined. The review also explores advances in addressing significant engineering challenges, such as high‐temperature sealing and defect detection, which are essential for ensuring membrane performance and reliability. Additionally, this review explores future research directions aimed at enhancing membrane efficiency and advancing the industrial scalability of high‐temperature H2 separation technologies. This review provides insights into overcoming the materials and engineering hurdles that must be addressed to enable the next generation of high‐temperature H2 separation membranes.
Recent Progress of Advanced Composites for Broadband Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Wei Zhiheng , Li Zongcheng , Chen Dewei , Liang Jin , Kong Jie
Published: December 2024

With the rapid development of radio communication technology, the demand for electromagnetic (EM) wave‐absorbing materials in the fields of stealth technology with strong electromagnet compatibility and high equipment efficiency has increased. The manufacturing processes of existing materials are intricate, and their applicability in extreme weather conditions is limited. The design of multidimensional absorbing materials can effectively address complex application needs, enhance environmental adaptability, and improve both absorption efficiency and wideband performance. To meet the application scope in demanding environments, current EM wave absorption materials must be improved for meeting the requirements of absorptions across multiple frequency bands. Changing the structural design of wave‐absorbing materials is an effective approach to achieving strong, wideband absorption properties and has attracted considerable research attention toward material development. Broadband absorption is conducive to the loss of EM waves at both low and broad frequencies. This study presents design dimensions and outlines the multiscale design strategies for EM wave‐absorbing materials proposed in recent research, including 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D structural design and optimization. Moreover, this study summarizes the applications of dimensional design strategies for the broadband absorption of EM waves. Finally, the challenges and future trends in the rapid development of broadband microwave absorption are discussed.
Berberine Attenuates Cerulein‐Induced Acute Pancreatitis by Modulating Nrf2/NOX2 Signaling Pathway via AMPK Activation
Authors: Bansod Sapana P. , Saifi Mohd Aslam , Chilvery Shrilekha , Doijad Nandkumar , Godugu Chandraiah
Published: December 2024

AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is the master regulator of cellular energy which gets activated during energy stress and restores tissue homeostasis. AMPK is widely expressed in the pancreas and is involved in protein synthesis. In cerulein‐induced acute pancreatitis (AP), diminished AMPK activity in the pancreatic tissue may be associated with pancreatic inflammation and oxidative stress. Our results demonstrated that berberine (BR) treatment produced significant decrease in plasma amylase and lipase levels and improved histopathological features in AP mice model. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity indicated that BR suppressed the infiltration of neutrophils in pancreas. BR treatment markedly decreased the levels of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukins (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) via inhibition of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 2 (NOX2) expression. In addition, BR activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling and inhibits cerulein‐induced oxidative‐nitrosative stress. Mechanistically, we found inhibition of AMPK activity in cerulein‐induced AP, while BR‐treated animals showed marked increase in the AMPK expression. Together, our study indicated that BR‐mediated AMPK activation in pancreatic tissues demonstrated attenuation of cerulein‐induced oxidative stress and inflammation. Based on our observations, further exploration of this promising natural product against AP and associated complications may lead to promising therapeutic options.
Exploring Pristine Tucumã (Astrocaryum aculeatum) Waste as a Sustainable Adsorbent for Textile Dye Removal
Authors: Vasconcelos Wolney Monteiro , Mulinari Jéssica , Leal Tarcísio Wolff , de Oliveira Carlos Rafael Silva , da Silva Júnior Afonso Henrique , Lourenço Luis Antonio , Lenzi Cecília
Published: December 2024

Textile dyes are one of the main industrial contaminants, and their removal from wastewater using environmentally friendly alternatives has been a challenge for decades. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the use of tucumã (Astrocaryum aculeatum) seed residue as a novel and low‐cost adsorbent material for the decolorization of a textile dye solution. The seed shell was disinfected, dried, ground, and sieved. Its physical and chemical characteristics were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and point of zero charge (pHPZC). The influence of initial pH (4.2–9.8) and dye concentration (95–745 mg/L) in the color removal was analyzed through a central composite rotatable design (CCRD) using 10 g/L of tucumã seed shell at 150 rpm for 4 h. Both pH and dye concentration linearly influenced color removal. Lower pH values and higher dye concentrations resulted in color removals above 40%. When pH 5 and 700 mg/L of dye were used, the adsorption capacity was higher than 50 mg/g. The adsorption isotherm that best fitted the data was Freundlich isotherm, indicating that the adsorbent has a heterogeneous surface and that multilayer adsorption occurs in the tucumã residue. These results indicate that pristine A. aculeatum seed residue can potentially be used as an adsorbent in the textile industry with no chemical or thermal activation.
A Review on Characterization, Treatment, and Impact of Tannery Wastewater in Ethiopia
Authors: Faye Gezahegn , Sibali Linda Lunga
Published: December 2024

The leather industry stands out as a notable contributor to national and global economic growth. In Ethiopia, the tannery sector is important for exports, economic growth, and employment. However, the tannery industry is the most pollutant generating and environmentally unfriendly industry in the world and recognized as a significant source of pollution of surface waters in Ethiopia. This review aims to assess the characterization, treatment, and impact of tannery wastewater. The authors reviewed 117 published materials, including articles and theses, related to the research area. The review results reveal that Ethiopian tannery effluents contribute to elevated levels of chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total dissolved solids (TDS), chromium (Cr), sulfide (S2−), and total nitrogen, which exceed national discharge limits and compromise water quality in rivers, notably the Little Akaki River. The adverse effects extend to soil and agricultural produce, posing significant risks to public health. Conventional treatment methods are widely used in the treatment of tannery wastewater but have limited effectiveness in meeting regulatory standards. This review emphasizes the urgent need for strengthened policy enforcement and investment in modern treatment technologies to develop sustainable solutions that mitigate the environmental and health impacts of tannery wastewater in Ethiopia. Additionally, nanomaterial‐based adsorption and photocatalysis have shown promising results in efficient pollutant removal, further research is recommended in this area.