bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Travel Time as an Indicator of Poor Access to Care in Surgical Emergencies
Authors: Clark Nina M. , Hernandez Alexandra H. , Bertalan Mia S. , Wang Virginia , Greenberg Sarah L. M. , Ibrahim Andrew M. , Stewart Barclay T. , Scott John W.
Published: January 2025

Importance

Timely access to care is a key metric for health care systems and is particularly important in conditions that acutely worsen with delays in care, including surgical emergencies. However, the association between travel time to emergency care and risk for complex presentation is poorly understood.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of travel time on disease complexity at presentation among people with emergency general surgery conditions and to evaluate whether travel time was associated with clinical outcomes and measures of increased health resource utilization.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used administrative statewide inpatient and emergency department databases with linkage across encounters, including nearly every inpatient or emergency department encounter in the states of Florida and California in 2021. Participants included adult patients who presented to an emergency department with 1 of 5 common emergency surgical conditions. Data were collected from January to December 2021 and analyzed from June to December 2023.

Exposure

The primary exposure was travel time from the patient’s home to the facility where they initially received emergency care.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome of interest was surgical disease complexity at the time of presentation to emergency care. Secondary outcomes included inpatient complications, mortality, and indicators of health system resource utilization. Multivariable logistic regression models were used, and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% CIs were reported.

Results

Among 190 311 adults with emergency general surgery conditions, 7138 (3.8%) lived further than 60 minutes from the facility where they sought emergency care. Longer travel times were associated with higher odds of complex disease presentation for travel time of more than 120 minutes vs 15 minutes or less (aOR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.17-1.40). Patients with a travel time 60 minutes or more were more likely to require operative intervention (aOR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.10-1.26), inpatient admission (aOR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.33-1.50), interfacility transfer (aOR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.15-1.51), and longer inpatient stay (adjusted mean difference, 0.47 days; 95% CI, 0.35-0.59), and had higher charges (adjusted mean difference, $8284; 95% CI, $5532-$11 035).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of patients with emergency surgical conditions, travel time to emergency care was associated with markers of delayed presentation and increased facility resource utilization. As opposed to static measures, such as rurality, travel time may serve as a more useful metric to inform policy efforts aimed at preserving access to care amidst rural hospital closures and regionalization.
Genomic Drivers of Coronary Artery Disease and Risk of Future Outcomes After Coronary Angiography
Authors: Supriami Kelvin , Urbut Sarah M. , Tello-Ayala José R. , Unlu Ozan , Friedman Samuel F. , Abou-Karam Roukoz , Koyama Satoshi , Uddin Md Mesbah , Pomerantsev Eugene , Lu Michael T. , Honigberg Michael C. , Aragam Krishna G. , Doshi-Velez Finale , Patel Aniruddh P. , Natarajan Pradeep , Ellinor Patrick T. , Fahed Akl C.
Published: January 2025

Importance

Disease characteristics of genetically mediated coronary artery disease (CAD) on coronary angiography and the association of genomic risk with outcomes after coronary angiography are not well understood.

Objective

To assess the angiographic characteristics and risk of post–coronary angiography outcomes of patients with genomic drivers of CAD: familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), high polygenic risk score (PRS), and clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP).

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective cohort study of 3518 Mass General Brigham Biobank participants with genomic information who underwent coronary angiography was conducted between July 18, 2000, and August 1, 2023.

Exposures

The presence of a genomic risk factor of CAD, defined as FH variant, high CAD PRS, or CHIP driver variation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Coronary artery disease presentation (stable or acute), angiographic CAD characteristics (severity and burden), angiographic outcomes (repeat angiogram, revascularization, and in-stent restenosis), and clinical outcomes (heart failure and all-cause mortality).

Results

Among 3518 participants (2467 [70.1%] male; median age, 64.0 [IQR, 55.0-72.0] years), 1509 (42.9%) had at least 1 genomic driver of CAD (26 FH, 1191 high CAD PRS, and 466 CHIP) that was associated with the presentation of acute coronary syndromes (adjusted odds ratio, 2.67; 95% CI, 2.19-3.26) and with the presence, burden, and severity of angiographic CAD. This association was driven by FH and CAD PRS. One SD of CAD PRS was associated with a 12.51-point higher Gensini score. During 9 years of follow-up, there was an increased risk among FH carriers for a repeat angiogram (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 1.70; 95% CI, 1.02-2.83), and revascularization (AHR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.02-3.80), and among people with high CAD PRS (repeat angiogram: AHR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.45-2.22; revascularization: AHR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.37-2.50; and in-stent restenosis: AHR, 3.89; 95% CI, 2.16-7.01). CHIP carriers had no significant increase in angiographic outcomes but were at higher risk of heart failure (AHR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.04-2.40) and all-cause mortality (AHR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.47-2.16).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this study suggest that germline monogenic and polygenic risk are associated with acute coronary syndromes presentation, severity and burden of atherosclerosis, and risk of repeat angiogram, revascularization, and in-stent restenosis. CHIP variant status is associated with incident heart failure and mortality after coronary angiography.
External Validation of a 5-Factor Risk Model for Breast Cancer–Related Lymphedema
Authors: Lin Cherie , Su Jie , Wu Alison J. , Lin Neil , Hossack Madison-Shira , Shi Wei , Xu Wei , Liu Fei-Fei , Kwan Jennifer Y. Y.
Published: January 2025

Importance

Secondary lymphedema is a common, harmful side effect of breast cancer treatment. Robust risk models that are externally validated are needed to facilitate clinical translation. A published risk model used 5 accessible clinical factors to predict the development of breast cancer–related lymphedema; this model included a patient’s mammographic breast density as a novel predictive factor.

Objective

To investigate the external validity of a previously reported 5-factor model by applying it to an independent cohort of patients with breast cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prognostic study collected data on a longitudinal cohort of patients with predominantly early-stage breast cancer treated with curative intent at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, Canada between February 1, 2010, and July 31, 2014, with a median (IQR) follow-up of 4.3 (2.4-7.6) years. The 5 factors (age, body mass index, breast density, nodal burden, and use of axillary lymph node dissection [ALND]) were used as input into the established regression-based model. The analysis was performed from July 2 through August 29, 2024.

Exposure

Lymphedema after breast cancer treatment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Lymphedema-free survival (LFS) was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier analysis, and sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy performance metrics of predicting breast cancer–related lymphedema were calculated.

Results

A total of 101 female patients (median [IQR] age, 54.8 [48.8-62.3] years) were included in the analysis. These patients had localized or locoregional breast cancer treated with primary lumpectomy (90 [89%]) or mastectomy (11 [11%]); 75 (74%) had no axillary biopsy or sentinel lymph node biopsy; 26 (26%) had undergone ALND; and 38 (38%) had received chemotherapy, 101 (100%) received radiotherapy, and 64 (63%) received hormone therapy. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a 2-year LFS of 97.5% (95% CI, 94.0%-100.0%) vs 65.0% (95% CI, 47.1%-89.7%) for the low- vs high-risk groups as defined by the 5-factor model (P < .001). The model sensitivity was 0.83 (95% CI, 0.52-0.98), specificity was 0.89 (95% CI, 0.80-0.94), and accuracy was 0.88 (95% CI, 0.80-0.94) for predicting breast cancer–related lymphedema.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings validate the performance of a 5-factor risk model for its prediction of 2-year LFS. Future clinical translation of this model can help with identifying patients at the highest risk of breast cancer–related lymphedema to facilitate closer surveillance and/or preventive management to improve health outcomes and quality of life.
A 61-Year-Old Man With Weakness and Gait Dysfunction
Authors: Jones Felipe J. S. , Edmundson Christyn , Orthmann-Murphy Jennifer
Published: January 2025

A man aged 61 years presented with chronic progressive weakness and gait dysfunction over a 4-year period. He had Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry and a history of memory loss, inappropriate laughter, dysarthria, and hypertension. Examination revealed impaired recall, extremity spasticity, distal sensory loss, and normal cerebellar function, and imaging showed hyperintensities in the periventricular white matter of the corticospinal tracts of the pons and medulla. What is your diagnosis?
NFSI‐TEMPO Catalysed Stereoselective Synthesis of 2‐Deoxyglycosides from Glycals
Authors: Kumar Sharma Vivek , Thakur Rima
Published: January 2025

2‐deoxyglycosides are prominent constituents of diverse naturally occurring glycans and are known to participate in crucial biological pathways. We herein demonstrate NFSI‐TEMPO as an efficient organocatalyst for the formation of 2‐deoxy‐α‐glycosides from glycals. For the first time a catalytic behaviour of NFSI‐TEMPO combination has been observed. The reaction conditions have been found suitable for the generation of glycosides from commercial alcohols, amino acid, sterol, phenols and monosaccharide derived alcohols. Broad range of protecting groups on both glycal and glycosyl acceptors as well as alcohols of varied reactivity were found to be compatible for the generation of 2‐deoxy‐α‐glycosides in moderate to good yields. The synthetic potential of the newly established transformation was illustrated by application in trisaccharide synthesis and gram‐scale reaction.
Observation of Extraordinary Vibration Scatterings Induced by Strong Anharmonicity in Lead‐Free Halide Double Perovskites
Authors: Wang Guang , Zheng Jiongzhi , Xue Jie , Xu Yixin , Zheng Qiye , Hautier Geoffroy , Lu Haipeng , Zhou Yanguang
Published: January 2025

Lead‐free halide double perovskites provide a promising solution for the long‐standing issues of lead‐containing halide perovskites, i.e., the toxicity of Pb and the low stability under ambient conditions and high‐intensity illumination. Their light‐to‐electricity or thermal‐to‐electricity conversion is strongly determined by the dynamics of the corresponding lattice vibrations. Here, the measurement of lattice dynamics is presented in a prototypical lead‐free halide double perovskite(Cs2NaInCl6). The quantitative measurements and first‐principles calculations show that the scatterings among lattice vibrations at room temperature are at the timescale of ≈1 ps, which stems from the extraordinarily strong anharmonicity in Cs2NaInCl6. Further the degree of anharmonicity of each type of atom is quantitatively characterized in the Cs2NaInCl6 single crystal, which stems from the interatomic forces, and demonstrate that this strong anharmonicity is synergistically contributed by the bond hierarchy, the tilting of the NaCl6 and InCl6 octahedral units, and the rattling of Cs+ ions. Consequently, the crystalline Cs2NaInCl6 possesses an ultralow thermal conductivity of ≈0.43 W mK−1 at room temperature, and a weak temperature dependence of T
−0.41. These findings uncovered the underlying mechanisms behind the dynamics of lattice vibrations in double perovskites, which can largely benefit the design of optoelectronics and thermoelectrics based on halide double perovskites.
A Novel 167‐Amino Acid Protein Encoded by CircPCSK6 Inhibits Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Progression via IKBα Ubiquitination
Authors: Guan Canghai , Gao Jianjun , Zou Xinlei , Shi Wujiang , Hao Yunhe , Ge Yifei , Xu Zhaoqiang , Yang Chengru , Bi Shaowu , Jiang Xingming , Kang Pengcheng , Xu Xiaoxue , Zhong Xiangyu
Published: January 2025

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), a formidable challenge in oncology, demands innovative biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This research highlights the importance of the circular RNA (circRNA) circPCSK6 and its peptide derivative circPCSK6‐167aa in ICC. CircPCSK6 is significantly downregulated in both ICC patients and mouse primary ICC models, and its lower expression is linked to adverse prognosis, highlighting its pivotal role in ICC pathogenesis. Functionally, this study elucidates the regulatory effect of circPCSK6‐167aa on IκBα ubiquitination within the NF‐κB pathway, which is mediated by its competitive binding to the E3 ligase RBBP6. This complex interaction leads to reduced activation of the NF‐κB pathway, thereby curbing tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, stemness, and hepatic‐lung metastasis in vivo. This groundbreaking discovery expands the understanding of circRNA‐driven tumorigenesis through atypical signaling pathways. Additionally, this investigation identified EIF4A3 as a detrimental regulator of circPCSK6, exacerbating ICC malignancy. Importantly, by leveraging patient‐derived xenograft (PDX), organoids, and organoid‐derived PDX models, higher levels of circPCSK6‐167aa enhance sensitivity to gemcitabine, indicating its potential to improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy. These insights emphasize the therapeutic promise of targeting circPCSK6‐167aa, offering vital biological insights and clinical directions for developing cutting‐edge therapeutic approaches, thus revealing innovative strategies and targets for future treatments.
Genetically Engineered Brain Organoids Recapitulate Spatial and Developmental States of Glioblastoma Progression
Authors: Ishahak Matthew , Han Rowland H. , Annamalai Devi , Woodiwiss Timothy , McCornack Colin , Cleary Ryan T. , DeSouza Patrick A. , Qu Xuan , Dahiya Sonika , Kim Albert H. , Millman Jeffrey R.
Published: January 2025

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive form of brain cancer that is highly resistant to therapy due to significant intra‐tumoral heterogeneity. The lack of robust in vitro models to study early tumor progression has hindered the development of effective therapies. Here, this study develops engineered GBM organoids (eGBOs) harboring GBM subtype‐specific oncogenic mutations to investigate the underlying transcriptional regulation of tumor progression. Single‐cell and spatial transcriptomic analyses revealed that these mutations disrupt normal neurodevelopment gene regulatory networks resulting in changes in cellular composition and spatial organization. Upon xenotransplantation into immunodeficient mice, eGBOs form tumors that recapitulate the transcriptional and spatial landscape of human GBM samples. Integrative single‐cell trajectory analysis of both eGBO‐derived tumor cells and patient GBM samples reveal the dynamic gene expression changes in developmental cell states underlying tumor progression. This analysis of eGBOs provides an important validation of engineered cancer organoid models and demonstrates their utility as a model of GBM tumorigenesis for future preclinical development of therapeutics.
The Gut Microbiota‐Xanthurenic Acid‐Aromatic Hydrocarbon Receptor Axis Mediates the Anticolitic Effects of Trilobatin
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Wei Jiajia , Ran Wang , Liu Dongjing , Yi Yang , Gong Miaoxian , Liu Xin , Gong Qihai , Li Haibo , Gao Jianmei
Published: January 2025

Current treatments for ulcerative colitis (UC) remain limited, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. Trilobatin (TLB), a naturally derived food additive, exhibits potential anti‐inflammatory properties. In this study, a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced animal model is used to investigate the effects of TLB on UC. It is found TLB significantly alleviates DSS‐induced UC in mice, as evidenced by a reduction in the disease activity index, an increase in colon length, improvement in histopathological lesions. Furthermore, TLB treatment results in a decrease in proinflammatory cytokines and an increase in anti‐inflammatory cytokines. TLB mitigates UC by modulating the intestinal microbiota, particularly Akkermansia, which enhances tryptophan metabolism and upregulates the production of xanthurenic acid (XANA). To confirm the role of TLB‐induced microbiota changes, experiments are performed with pseudogerm‐free mice and fecal transplantation. It is also identified XANA as a key metabolite that mediates TLB's protective effects. Both TLB and XANA markedly activate the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Administration of an AhR antagonist abrogates their protective effects, thereby confirming the involvement of AhR in the underlying mechanism. In conclusion, the study reveals a novel mechanism through which TLB alleviates UC by correcting microbiota imbalances, regulating tryptophan metabolism, enhancing XANA production, and activating AhR.
Manipulating Fano Coupling in an Opto‐Thermoelectric Field
Authors: Lin Linhan , Lepeshov Sergey , Krasnok Alex , Huang Yu , Jiang Taizhi , Peng Xiaolei , Korgel Brian A. , Alù Andrea , Zheng Yuebing
Published: January 2025

Fano resonances in photonics arise from the coupling and interference between two resonant modes in structures with broken symmetry. They feature an uneven and narrow and tunable lineshape and are ideally suited for optical spectroscopy. Many Fano resonance structures have been suggested in nanophotonics over the last ten years, but reconfigurability and tailored design remain challenging. Herein, an all‐optical “pick‐and‐place” approach aimed at assembling Fano metamolecules of various geometries and compositions in a reconfigurable manner is proposed. Their coupling behavior by in situ dark‐field scattering spectroscopy is studied. Driven by a light‐directed opto‐thermoelectric field, silicon nanoparticles with high‐quality‐factor Mie resonances (discrete states) and low‐loss BaTiO3 nanoparticles (continuum states) are assembled into all‐dielectric heterodimers, where distinct Fano resonances are observed. The Fano parameter can be adjusted by changing the resonant frequency of the discrete states or the light polarization. Tunable coupling strength and multiple Fano resonances by altering the number of continuum states and discrete states in dielectric heterooligomers are also shown. This work offers a general design rule for Fano resonance and an all‐optical platform for controlling Fano coupling on demand.
Transfusion‐Related Acute Lung Injury: from Mechanistic Insights to Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Fang Xiaobin , Mo Chunheng , Zheng Ling , Gao Fei , Xue Fu‐Shan , Zheng Xiaochun
Published: January 2025

Transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a potentially lethal complication of blood transfusions, characterized by the rapid onset of pulmonary edema and hypoxemia within six hours post‐transfusion. As one of the primary causes of transfusion‐related mortality, TRALI carries a significant mortality rate of 6–12%. However, effective treatment strategies for TRALI are currently lacking, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive and in‐depth understanding of its pathogenesis. This comprehensive review provides an updated and detailed analysis of the current landscape of TRALI, including its clinical presentation, pathogenetic hypotheses, animal models, cellular mechanisms, signaling pathways, and potential therapeutic targets. By highlighting the critical roles of these pathways and therapies, this review offers valuable insights to inform the development of preventative and therapeutic strategies and to guide future research efforts aimed at addressing this life‐threatening condition.
Targeting TTK Inhibits Tumorigenesis of T‐Cell Lymphoma Through Dephosphorylating p38α and Activating AMPK/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Liu Bingyu , Lu Tiange , Ding Mengfei , Zhou Xiaoli , Jiang Yujie , Shang Juanjuan , Sun Wenyue , Hu Shunfeng , Wang Xin , Zhou Xiangxiang
Published: January 2025

T‐cell lymphoma (TCL) is a group of non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma with high heterogeneity and unfavorable prognosis. Current standard treatments have demonstrated limited efficacy in improving the outcomes for TCL patients. Therefore, identification of novel drug targets is urgently needed to improve the prognosis of TCL patients. Through multi‐omics analysis, aberrant expression of threonine tyrosine kinase (TTK) in TCL is identified. High expression of TTK is closely associated with poor prognosis in TCL patients. Targeting TTK through gene knockdown exerts anti‐tumor effects in vitro and in vivo, including inhibiting the cell proliferation, inducing G2/M phase arrest, enhancing DNA damage and cell apoptosis. Mechanically, p38α is identified as the potential phosphorylation substrate of TTK through phosphoproteomic quantification and motif prediction. Furthermore, inhibition of TTK suppresses activation of p38α through dephosphorylating it at Thr180/Tyr182, thereby promoting the activation of AMPK/mTOR pathway. In addition, targeting TTK enhances the autophagy in TCL cells through dephosphorylating p38α. CFI‐402257, a specific inhibitor of TTK, is found to exhibit anti‐tumor effects and exerted synergistic efficacy with PI3K inhibitor, Duvelisib, in TCL. The study shows that TTK contributes to the development of TCL by regulating p38α‐mediated AMPK/mTOR pathway. CFI‐402257 is expected to be a promising strategy for TCL treatment.
HPV E6/E7‐Induced Acetylation of a Peptide Encoded by a Long Non‐Coding RNA Inhibits Ferroptosis to Promote the Malignancy of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Qi Xiaoyu , Zhou Jing , Wang Xinyue , Shen Yan , Cao Yuxun , Jiang Liangzi , Shen Miaomiao , Zhang Haoran , Wang Tianjiao , Wei Pengjun , Xu Ruoqi , Yang Yue , Ding Xiangya , Wang Cong , Jia Xuemei , Yan Qin , Li Wan , Lu Chun
Published: January 2025

Although a fraction of functional peptides concealed within long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is identified, it remains unclear whether lncRNA‐encoded peptides are involved in the malignancy of cervical cancer (CC). Here, a 92‐amino acid peptide is discovered, which is named TUBORF, encoded by lncRNA TUBA3FP and highly expressed in CC tissues. TUBORF inhibits ferroptosis to promote the malignant proliferation of CC cells. Mechanistically, human papillomavirus (HPV) oncogenes E6 and E7 upregulate TUBORF through CREB‐binding protein (CBP)/E1A‐binding protein p300 (p300)‐mediated histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) of lncTUBA3FP enhancer. Furthermore, E6 and E7 elevate and recruit acetyltransferase establishment of sister chromatid cohesion N‐acetyltransferase 1 (ESCO1) to bind to and acetylate TUBORF, which facilitates the degradation of immunity‐related GTPase Q (IRGQ) via a ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway, resulting in the inhibition of ferroptosis and promotion of the malignant proliferation of CC cells. Importantly, silencing ESCO1 or TURORF amplifies anticancer effects by paclitaxel both in CC cells and in vivo. These novel findings reveal oncopeptide TUBORF and its acetyltransferase ESCO1 as important regulators of ferroptosis and tumorigenesis during cervical cancer pathogenesis and establish the scientific basis for targeting these molecules for treating CC.
Spin Magnetic Effect Activate Dual Site Intramolecular O─O Bridging for Nickel‐Iron Hydroxide Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Catalysis
Authors: Dong Haohai , Luo Lanke , Zhou Sitong , Chen Lin , Wu Xinyu , Yang Yitao , Liao Zhensheng , Fu Liao , Chen Ming , Zhu Yuxin , Su Peiyuan , Jiang Haomin , Sun Zemin , Lin Liu , Hua Qingsong
Published: January 2025

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) involves the recombination of diamagnetic hydroxyl (OH) or water (H2O) into the paramagnetic triplet state of oxygen (O2). The spin conservation of oxygen intermediates plays a crucial role in OER, however, research on spin dynamics during the catalytic process remains in its early stages. Herein, β‐Ni(OH)2 and Fe‐doped β‐Ni(OH)2 (Ni5Fe1(OH)2) are utilized as model catalysts to understand the mechanism of spin magnetic effects at iron (III) sites during OER. Combined with magnetic characterization, it is founded that the introduction of Fe transforms the antiferromagnetic Ni(OH)2 into a ferromagnetic material. Testing the magnetic response of the catalyst under an external magnetic field, the OER activity of Ni5Fe1(OH)2 is significantly enhanced in comparison to Ni(OH)2. This improvement is likely due to the introduction of iron sites, which promote spin magnetic effects and enhance reaction kinetics, thereby increasing catalytic efficiency. Combining experimental and theoretical characterization, it is discovered that the iron sites accelerate the formation of heterogeneous dual‐site O─O bridging, represented as ─Ni─O─O─Fe─, thereby effectively enhancing the kinetics of the OER reaction. This study provides a magnetic perspective on the structure‐function relationship of magnetic iron‐based catalysts and has significant implications for the design of new catalysts.
Proton Exchange Membrane with Dual‐Active‐Center Surpasses the Conventional Temperature Limitations of Fuel Cells
Authors: Liao Yucong , Zhao Shengqiu , wang Rui , Zhang Junjie , Li Hao , Liu Bingxuan , Li Yao , Zhang Aojie , Tian Tian , Tang Haolin
Published: January 2025

High temperature‐proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT‐PEMFC) call for ionomers with low humidity dependence and elevated‐temperature resistance. Traditional perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) ionomers encounter challenges in meeting these stringent requirements. Herein, this study reports a perfluoroimide multi‐acid (PFMA) ionomer with dual active centers achieved through the incorporation of sulfonimide and phosphonic acid groups into the side chain. The fluorocarbon skeleton and multi‐acid side chain structure facilitate the segregation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic microphases, augmenting the short‐range ordering of hydrophilic nanodomains. Furthermore, the introduction of a rigid segment‐benzene ring is employed to decrease side chain flexibility and raise the glass transition temperature. Notably, the prepared membrane exhibits a conductivity of 41 mS cm−1 at 40% relative humidity, showcasing a 1.8 times improvement over that of PFSA. Additionally, the power output of the H2‐air fuel cell based on this membrane reaches 1.5 W cm−2 at 105 °C, marking a substantial 2.3 times enhancement compared to the PFSA. This work demonstrates the unique advantages of perfluorinated ionomers with multiple protogenic groups in the development of high‐performance high‐temperature electrolyte materials.
Iridium(III) Blue Phosphors with Heteroleptic Carbene Cyclometalates: Isomerization, Emission Tuning, and OLED Fabrications
Authors: Wu Yixin , Huang Manli , Cheng Lin , Zhang Junyao , Pan Yi , Yiu Shek-Man , Lau Kai Chung , Yan Jie , Yang Chuluo , Chi Yun
Published: January 2025

Ir(III) complexes are particularly noted for their excellent photophysical properties in giving blue OLED phosphors. In this study, two distinctive carbene pro‐chelates LAH2+ and LBH2+ (or LCH2+) were employed in preparation of heteroleptic Ir(III) complexes, to which LAH2+ bears a cyano substituted benzoimidazolium along with N‐mesityl appendage, while LBH2+ (or LCH2+) carries the symmetrical benzoimidazolium entity. Notably, the reversible equilibration at high temperature was observed for m, f‐ct14 and m, f‐ct15 with a single LA chelate. In contrast, only the mer‐substituted m‐ct16 was obtained upon employing two LA chelates. All Ir(III) complexes exhibited blue photoluminescence (ΦPL ≥ 78%) with short radiative lifetimes (τrad ≤ 1.05 µs) in solution. The Ph OLED device with m‐ct16 afforded an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 22.8% at 5000 cd m‒2. Moreover, the hyper‐OLED based on m‐ct16 and v‐DABNA exhibited EQE1000 of 32.1% (EQE recorded at 1000 cd·m−2) and J90 of 15.0 mA cm‒2 (current density at 90% of max. EQE). Its suppressed efficiency roll‐off (EQE of 32.1% and 27.7% at 1000 cd·m‒2 and 10000 cd·m‒2) demonstrated a milestone in fabrication of blue OLED devices.
Photocatalytic Conversion of Methane to Ethane and Propane Using Cobalt‐Cluster‐Activated GaN Nanowires
Authors: Ye Zhengwei , Long Zhuoran , Zhang Bingxing , Navid Ishtiaque Ahmed , Menzel Jan Paul , Shen Yifan , Mondal Shubham , Guo Facheng , Norris Theodore B. , Batista Victor S. , Mi Zetian
Published: January 2025

The photocatalytic nonoxidative coupling of methane (PNOCM) offers a promising route to synthesize valuable C2+ hydrocarbons while minimizing side reactions. Oxide‐based photocatalysts have been predominant in this field, but suffering from limited conversion rates, selectivity, and durability due to poor C−C coupling as well as overoxidation of CH4 by lattice oxygen. Here, we introduce an advancement in PNOCM for methane conversion into ethane and propane using GaN, one of the most produced semiconductors, together with trace amounts of metallic cobalt clusters (0.1 wt %). The photocatalytic system exhibits outstanding stability, maintaining performance over 110 hours, achieving conversion rates of approximately 192.3 mmol g−1 h−1 for ethane and ~17.9 mmol g−1 h−1 for propane, with virtually no coke byproducts detected, representing the highest activity and stability ever reported to our knowledge. This high activity is attributed to the critical methane activation and C−C coupling on Co cluster, which can be greatly accelerated via the ultrafast photogenerated charge transfer from p‐GaN to Co cluster. Additionally, the GaN support further synergistically enhances methane activation by in situ generating N−H and O−H species under reaction, as well as provides a vital anti‐overoxidation effect to CH4 for high selectivity and stability.
Optimizing Feeding and Pupation Bioassays to Assess the Effects of Insecticidal and Repellent Treatments on Aethina tumida Larval Development and Pupation Success
Authors: Roth Morgan A. , Gross Aaron D.
Published: January 2025

European honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies are an ideal host to the invasive beetle Aethina tumida, providing a nutrient rich environment that is protected from the elements and facilitates beetle reproduction. Although various management techniques and chemical treatments for A. tumida have been developed, understanding the efficacy of these treatments and techniques is limited. Throughout this study, several methods for impairing A. tumida development and delivering insecticidal, repellent, or antifungal treatments were examined. A series of A. tumida larval feeding bioassays developed and optimized feeding gel pellet for delivery of insecticidal treatments, revealing that A. tumida larvae are sensitive to the two common in‐hive varroa mite (Varroa destructor) treatments: coumaphos (EC50 = 25.6 ppm) and tau‐fluvalinate (EC50 = 21.2 ppm). Feeding bioassays also demonstrated that A. tumida were more sensitive to the pyrethroid compounds permethrin (EC50 = 3.37 ppm), deltamethrin (EC50 = 2.69 ppm), and bifenthrin (EC50 = 0.365 ppm), which have been previously used to control this beetle. Feeding bioassays also revealed that the antifungal drug Amphotericin B was palatable to A. tumida larvae via feeding, but was also injected into A. tumida larvae and adults. Two types of pupation bioassays were also developed to test the effects of several insecticidal and repellent treatments on pupation burrowing and pupation success. Overall, this work details specific toxicity information regarding common insecticidal treatments found in the apiary setting study and provides groundwork and methods for testing insecticidal compounds on A. tumida larvae in in the future.
Unlocking Dividend Potential Through the Power of Sustainable Disclosures: Moderating Role of Financial Constraints
Authors: Malik Neha , Kashiramka Smita
Published: January 2025

Based on signalling and stakeholder theory, this research empirically explores the relationship between sustainability disclosure by firms and their dividend payouts in emerging economies. Various measures such as likelihood of paying dividends, stability of dividend disbursed, dividend payout ratio and dividend yield are employed to test the research hypotheses. Panel dataset covering firms from 16 emerging economies spanning from 2015 to 2022 is analysed using Logit model, Tobit model and Random Effect model. The findings demonstrate a favourable relationship between ESG disclosure scores and dividend payouts of firms. Higher ESG scores are associated with a greater likelihood of paying dividends, higher dividend payments, ensuring the stability of these payments and delivering higher implied shareholder returns through dividend yield. These effects are more pronounced for firms under greater financial constraints. Importantly, these results remain robust across various sensitivity analyses involving alternative measures, estimation methods and instrumental variable regression. These findings hold implications for investors, managers and policymakers, offering valuable insights for companies to structure their sustainability initiatives. By examining and integrating corporate finance and sustainability, this study introduces ESG scores as a novel nonfinancial driver of corporate payouts, thus marking the pioneering contribution to the ESG‐dividend literature in emerging nations.
Implementing Extended Producer Responsibility in Organizations: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Kripalani Mukesh , Gajjar Hasmukh , Kumar Bipul
Published: January 2025

Extended producer responsibility (EPR) is an obligation for manufacturers to ensure environmentally sound management of their goods, even after they have been sold to consumers. Governments frame EPR rules for better waste management, and violating these rules may lead to penalties. This study aims to understand the intellectual structure of EPR and to define a framework of EPR enablers, which can help organizations devise strategies to manage their obligations effectively. The study conducts a bibliometric review of 749 journal articles published between 2012 and 2023 using the bibliometrix and the VOSViewer packages. The findings identify five knowledge clusters: EPR process and drivers; policy and legislation; consumer behavior and EPR; EPR and business models; and use of technology and science. Semi‐structured interviews with industry practitioners help discover prioritization among these clusters. Researchers and organizations can use these findings to take action and understand EPR from a more holistic perspective.
Sustainable HRM Impact on Employees' Behaviors Through Workplace Spirituality
Authors: Gomes Gabriela Pedro , Coelho Arnaldo , Ribeiro Neuza
Published: January 2025

This study explores the link between sustainable HRM, workplace spirituality (WS), and employee behaviors, namely, organizational citizenship behavior for the environment (OCBE) and proactive behavior (PB). Utilizing a double source data collection method, this research incorporates the perspectives of both managers and employees. A sample of 314 dyads was analyzed. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the proposed hypotheses. It was found that sustainable HRM positively influences WS and OCBE. However, no significant direct impact was identified on PB. WS acts as a full mediator in this relationship. These results also show a strong association between WS and OCBE. This study underscores the crucial role of sustainable HRM in fostering WS and promoting OCBE while raising important questions about PB in a sustainability context. These insights contribute to understanding how organizations can use sustainable HRM to enhance employee responsible behaviors and create a workplace that supports employees' spiritual well‐being.
Designed Synthesis of Amino‐Azo‐Quinoline and Their Nickel(II) Complexes: Molecular Structure, Electrochemistry and an Insight Into Their In Vitro Anti‐Cancer Activities
Authors: Naskar Srijita , Sarkar Koushik , Halder Supriyo , Chatterjee Bidisha , Chakraborty Debjeet , Laha Arka , Sharma Rahul , Mitra Arup Kumar , Pramanik Kausikisankar , Ganguly Sanjib
Published: January 2025

Amino‐quinolines are potential candidates that may provide some insight into the current chemotherapeutic research due to their demonstrated anti‐cancer activity. This led us to synthesize and explore a new amino‐azo‐quinoline ligand H2L 1 and its square planar nickel(II) complexes [Ni(HL) (OAc)], 2 and [Ni(HL)Cl], 3 and the structures were determined by Single Crystal X‐Ray Diffraction. Theoretical investigation of redox orbitals of the complexes discloses that the reduction process is due to ligand reduction whereas both metal and ligand are contributing towards oxidation. The anti‐cancer properties of the ligand and one of the nickel(II) complexes have been assessed by 3‐[4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl]‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, cell migration along with the generation of reactive oxygen species using human epithelial cancer cell line cells. The ligand 1 and complex 3 have been found to show effective anti‐cancer activity and for the latter, it is more promising. This may be ascribed to the rigid and robust nature of square planar complex 3, which supports stronger binding with DNA than that of free ligands, possibly due to the flexible nature of the latter. This result has also been validated by molecular docking using nine conformers of the ligand and complex 3 via interaction with B‐DNA (PDB ID: 1BNA) where the binding affinity with the complex has been found to be stronger.
Design and Evaluation of Novel Selective BET BD2 Inhibitors by Combining QSAR, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Techniques
Authors: Tong Jian‐Bo , Sun Yue , Chang Ze‐Lei , Zhang Ya‐Kun , Xing Xiao‐Yu , Yan Jing , Li Jia‐Le
Published: January 2025

Bromodomain and extra terminal domain (BET) proteins play important roles in biological processes, such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and signaling, and are involved in the occurrence and development of many diseases, including cancer and inflammatory diseases. Selective inhibitors targeting the first bromodomain (BD1) or the second bromodomain (BD2) have triggered a new wave of research to produce more specific and safer drugs. In this study, 37 novel selective BET BD2 inhibitors with anti‐inflammatory activity are selected to construct robust Topomer CoMFA (q2 = 0.689, r2 = 0.916) and HQSAR (q2 = 0.805, r2 = 0.906) models, and both models have good external prediction ability. On the basis of quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) results and ZINC15 database screening, 23 new compounds with ideal inhibitory activity are successfully designed. The stability and feasibility of binding the newly designed compounds to the target protein are further verified by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation validation. In conclusion, this work not only provides a reliable QSAR model as a screening tool for future anti‐inflammatory drug development but also provides a theoretical basis for the design and modification of subsequent selective BET BD2 inhibitors.
Activation of the Voltage‐Gated Potassium Channel by Amphiphilic Glycopeptides
Authors: Anand Saurabh , Bandyopadhyay Sucheta , Ravindra Bhoge Preeti , Toraskar Suraj , Kalia Jeet , Kikkeri Raghavendra
Published: January 2025

Voltage‐gated ion channels (VGICs) are allosterically modulated by glycosaminoglycan proteoglycans and sialic acid glycans. However, the structural diversity and heterogeneity of these biomolecules pose significant challenges to precisely delineate their underlying structure‐activity relationships. Herein, we demonstrate how heparan sulfate (HS) and sialic acid synthetic glycans appended on amphiphilic glycopeptide backbone influence cell membrane persistence and modulate the gating of the Kv2.1 channel. Utilizing a panel of amphiphilic glycopeptides comprising HS disaccharides and sialic acid trisaccharide glycans, we observed that sulfation of HS and flexible α(2‐6) sialylation result in prolonged persistence of glycopeptides on the cell membrane compared to non‐sulfated HS and α(2–3) sialylation respective. This variation in glycocalyx composition was associated with a noticeable difference in the effects of these compounds on the activation and deactivation properties of the voltage‐gated Kv2.1 channel with our strongest membrane associating compound demonstrating the most potent channel‐activation propensity. Our findings demonstrate that sulfation charges on glycopeptide play a critical role in their membrane association propensities and endow them with VGIC activation properties. These results provide a valuable insight into the role of cell surface glycans in VGIC activities.
Noble‐Metal‐Free Electrocatalysts for Selective Hydrogen Peroxide Generation via Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Liu Yuepeng , Lei Fang , Li Tingting , Wang Siyu , Li Yi
Published: January 2025

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a versatile chemical widely used in various industries. The traditional anthraquinone method for H2O2 synthesis has environmental and safety concerns due to the use of organic solvents and hazardous by‐products. The direct synthesis of H2O2 from H2 and O2 poses risks of flammability and explosion. Recently, the 2‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e− ORR) method has emerged as a promising alternative, offering safety, environmental friendliness, and cost‐effectiveness. This method utilizes gas diffusion electrodes to efficiently generate H2O2 without the need for additional dilution. In this review, we focus on the recent advancements in noble‐metal‐free materials for 2e− ORR electrocatalysis, which play a crucial role in the efficient production of H2O2. These materials, including transition metal compounds, macrocyclic complexes, carbon‐based catalysts, framework materials, and MXenes catalysts, demonstrate significant advantages in enhancing H2O2 yield. The development of these non‐precious metal catalysts can reduce costs and improve sustainability and promote the commercialization of related technologies. The review concludes with an outlook on the future trends of 2e− ORR electrocatalysts.
Diversity‐Oriented Synthesis and Antibiofilm Evaluation of Furan‐2‐Carboxamides
Authors: Muñoz‐Estrada Ana C. , Tovar‐Roman Cesar E. , García‐Mejía Carlos D. , García‐Contreras Rodolfo , Hernández‐Vázquez Eduardo
Published: January 2025

A diversity‐oriented collection of furan‐2‐carboxamides with antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa is reported. The design involved the bioisosteric replacement of the labile furanone ring by a furan‐2‐carboxamide moiety to explore its influence on biological activity. After evaluation, carbohydrazides and triazoles showed significant antibiofilm activity, and 4b resulted in the most remarkable compound (58 % inhibition). Furthermore, treating P. aeruginosa with three active carboxamides reduced some virulence factors (pyocyanin and proteases), confirming the anti‐quorum sensing properties of the derivatives and suggesting LasR as a plausible target. Molecular docking proposed that carbohydrazides share a similar binding mode to related furanones inside LasR with an excellent docking score, while higher derivatives diminished in silico affinity.
Recent Advances in Heterogenization of Photocatalysts on Polymer Supports and Applications in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Delacourt Cloé , Goddard Jean‐Philippe , Spangenberg Arnaud , Cormier Morgan
Published: January 2025

The photocatalysis is a powerful tool in organic synthesis to generate reactive intermediates and create challenging chemical bonds. The reactivity on such process is mainly controlled by a photocatalyst (PCat) which is designed to ensure both selectivity and efficiency. In the pursuit of more economical and environmentally friendly approaches, the heterogenization of photocatalysts has become increasingly essential, and it is still challenging. Among the various insoluble supports studied, polymers offer several appealing characteristics, such as stability, ease of synthesis, porosity, and recyclability. This review aims to summarize the recent progress in heterogenization of photocatalyst on polymer including the polymerization of PCat, post‐grafting of PCat and 3D‐printing. For the selected heterogeneous photocatalyst, examples of organic transformations and evidence of photocatalytic efficiency will be discussed.
Like Parent, Like Subsidiary? On the Diffusion of Sustainability Reporting in Multinational Companies
Authors: Fourati Abdelaziz , Zenaidi Amel , Jeriji Maher
Published: January 2025

This research investigates the determinants of sustainability reporting practices within multinational companies (MNCs) and their subsidiaries, focusing on the mediating role of MNC parents and the moderating impact of cultural distance and local isomorphism. We conducted a content analysis of the stand‐alone sustainability reports of 187 MNCs and 332 subsidiaries over a decade (2011–2020), comparing 1594 subsidiary reports with 983 parent reports. A path analysis approach assessed the mediating role of MNC parents, while random effects panel models assessed the moderating effects of local isomorphism and cultural distance. The results indicate that MNC parents positively and significantly influence the adoption of sustainability reporting practices by their subsidiaries. However, the successful implementation of these practices is moderated by local institutional context and cultural distance. Subsidiary transparency was positively influenced by industry characteristics and effective local governance, while financial constraints and the degree of alignment with international standards played a complex role in reporting practices. Our research indicates that MNCs need to adjust their global approaches to fit into local environments and improve the transparency of subsidiaries by utilizing industry‐specific tactics and robust local management. Policymakers need to prioritize enhancing local governance structures to improve sustainability reporting. This research contributes to the field of institutional theory by demonstrating how local isomorphism affects the dissemination of reporting practices within MNCs. Furthermore, it is one of the few recent studies to examine sustainability reports in‐depth, analyzing their content and assessing the extent to which cultural distance affects the adoption of transparency practices global.
Alliance Networks, Innovative Culture, and Intellectual Human Capital as Key Enablers of Corporate Social Innovation: A Hybrid Approach Using PLS‐SEM and fsQCA
Authors: Abbasi Munir A. , Yon Lim Chia , Amran Azlan
Published: January 2025

Corporations have been increasingly prioritizing corporate social innovation (CSI). It has potential for creating long‐term business value and promoting sustainable social development. CSI possesses immense value due to its exceptional ability to tackle complex and pressing social issues. Despite over a decade of research on CSI, there is limited understanding about drivers of CSI from the perspective of organizational resources. The current study utilized the resource‐based view of the firm (RBV) to investigate the impact of organizational resources (such as alliance networks, innovative culture, and intellectual human capital) on CSI. This was done by examining the mediation of dynamic capabilities (exploitation and exploration). The data obtained from Malaysian public limited companies was examined using PLS‐SEM and fsQCA. The results revealed that alliance networks and innovative culture play a crucial role to drive CSI. The fsQCA analysis discovered four sufficient configurations that foster CSI. In addition to the theoretical contributions, the findings have significant implications for corporate leaders seeking CSI initiatives, as well as policy makers within governmental bodies.