bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Female activity patterns and aggressiveness in the strawberry poison frog Dendrobates pumilio (Anura: Dendrobatidae)
Authors: Haase Annely , Pröhl Heike
Published: July 2002

Female strawberry poison frogs (Dendrobates pumilio) exhibit highly evolved maternal care, including tadpole transport and tadpole provisioning with unfertilized eggs. We observed that tadpole-rearing and mating activity are mutually exclusive behavioural states in a Costa Rican population. Tadpole-rearing females did not engage in courtship activity. Only non-rearing females courted. Non-rearing females occupied larger home ranges than tadpole-rearing females, which may be related to female selection of mates. For the first time aggressive female-female interactions were observed in the field. Tadpole-rearing females were significantly more aggressive than non-rearing females, especially in the vicinity of their offspring-rearing sites. Las hembras de la ranita roja Dendrobates pumilio ejecutan cuidado parental altamente desarrollado que incluye el transporte y la alimentación de los renacuajos. En una población costaricense encontramos que el cuido materno y la actvidad sexual son comportamientos mutualmente exclusivos: Las hembras que estan cuidando a su cría son sexualmente inactivas, solamente las hembras sin renacuajos se aparean. Las hembras sexualmente activas poseian un rango de actividad más grande que las hembras cuidando a renacuajos. Los rangos de actividad en el primer grupo de hembras eran más grandes probablemente porque ellas visitan los territorios de varios machos con el fin de seleccionar una pareja. Además, por la primera vez interacciones aggressivas entre las hembras de la ranita roja fueron observados en el campo, siendo más aggressivas las hembras con rencuajos, particularmente en la vencidad de los hábitats de su cría.
Taking a Glance at the Environment: Prolegomena to an Ethics of the Environment
Authors: Casey Edward
Published: July 2002

It is remarkable how much we can understand about an environmental problem at a mere glance. By means of a glance - at once quick and comprehensive - we can detect that something is going wrong in a given environmental circumstance, and we can even begin to suspect what needs to be done to rectify the situation. In this paper I explore the unsuspected power of the glance in environmental thought and practice, drawing special lessons for an ethics of the environment. Specific examples are analyzed, and authors as diverse as John Dewey and Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari are invoked in an effort to develop a coherent vision of how the human glance helps to locate and remedy environmental crises.
Nature Godly and Beautiful: The Iconic Earth
Authors: Foltz Bruce
Published: July 2002

Rooted in a tradition of thought and spirituality akin to, yet other than, the onto-theology of the Latin West, the aesthetico-theological experience of the Byzantine icon can help articulate aesthetic and numinous elements of our relation to nature that environmental philosophy should no longer ignore. In contrast to the technical mastery of the natural in Western art inaugurated by the Renaissance, itself related to the emerged technological mastery of nature in the late Middle Ages, the iconic sensibility characteristic of the Byzantine East exhibits an experience of materiality common to non-Western humanity, seeing nature as a visible window to the invinsible, a lintel of the holy. A series of correlations between features of iconic seeing and exemplary encounters with the natural environment by prominent naturalists elaborates this thesis, along with examples from the later writings of Dostoevsky, who looked to divine beauty to save the earth.
The Listening Eye: Nietzsche and Levinas
Authors: Schroeder Brian
Published: July 2002

Nietzsche's recognition of existence as an ever-shifting play of surface appearances presages his "revaluation of all values," his response to those who would stabilize becoming by metaphysically reifying it as being. Nietzsche arguably provides Levinas with his deepest ethical challenge. Consequently, Levinas himself undertakes a similar revaluation of the ground of traditional values and of the subject. Both put forth heterodox notions of subjectivity insofar as the subject is constituted by a radical exteriority that is paradoxically realized as such interiorly. However, Levinas repudiates the post-modern conception of the subject as an empty, fragmented phantasm (a position often attributed to Nietzsche), the hollow legacy of a now debunked and defunct modernist project, characterizing his ethical philosophy as a "defense of subjectivity." Nietzsche and Levinas simultaneously invert and intertwine the traditional hierarchical relation between seeing and hearing. In doing so, they reveal essential dimensions of the ethical relationship that would appear to be contradictory, self-negating, or at least incompatible. However, they also have their sights set on a similar site - that of the "eye that listens." This essay interrogates the role that the metaphor of the "listening eye" plays in determining their respective conceptions of subjectivity and ethics. Both employ this provocative and necessarily ambiguous metaphor to emphasize the radical role that teaching plays in their philosophies.
Percentage of Opioid Tests Available in US Injury Death Investigations, 2021
Authors: Lundberg Alexander , Post Lori , Unick Jay , McCarthy Danielle , Welch Sarah , Noland Kena , Lawler Katie , Mason Maryann
Published: February 2025

This study uses 2021 data on the percentage of unavailable opioid tests in the US to examine how opioid involvement informs injury death investigations.
Embracing Neurodiversity in Medicine—Building a More Inclusive Physician Workforce
Authors: Hamilton Roy H. , Williams Zachary J. , Brodkin Edward S.
Published: February 2025

This Viewpoint discusses advancing physician workforce diversity via neurodiversity, the range of developmental neurocognitive differences that underlie individual variation in thinking, learning, and behavior.
Donning the Hijab—A Cardiology Fellow’s Journey With Advocacy and Inclusion
Authors: Khan Najah Ali
Published: February 2025

This essay details the author’s fellowship experience and challenges as a Muslim woman who wears the hijab.
Safety, Feasibility, and Diagnostic Yield of Invasive Coronary Function Testing
Authors: Crooijmans Caïa , Jansen Tijn P. J. , Meeder Joan G. , Woudstra Janneke , Meuwissen Martijn , De Vos Annemiek M.J. , Paradies Valeria , Olde Bijvank Els G. M. , Winkler Patty , Vos Nicola S. , Arkenbout Karin , Woudstra Pier , Stoel Martin G. , Van de Hoef Tim P. , Van den Oord Stijn C. H. , Widdershoven Jos W. M. G. , Remkes Wouter , Cetinyurek-Yavuz Aysun , Den Ruijter Hester M. , Onland-Moret N. Charlotte , Boersma Eric , Beijk Marcel A.M. , Appelman Yolande , Piek Jan J. , Konst Regina E. , Maas Angela H. E. M. , Van Royen Niels , Dimitriu-Leen Aukelien C. , Elias-Smale Suzette E. , Damman Peter ,   NL-CFT Investigators, Aarnoudse Wilbert H , Bourich Jihane , Ellerström Bibilotte , Gietman Olaf , Kuijsters Thedde , Madera Maribel I , Marques Koen MJ , Sjauw Krishan D , Smits Peter C , Sorgdrager Bastiaan J , van der Heijden Dirk J , van Keeken Kyra , van 't Hof Arnoud , Vossenberg Tessel N
Published: February 2025

Importance

Patients with angina and no obstructive coronary artery disease frequently have coronary vasomotor dysfunction as underlying pathophysiological mechanism, comprising epicardial spasm, microvascular spasm, and/or microcirculatory dysfunction. These endotypes can be diagnosed by invasive coronary function testing which has previously shown to be safe in tertiary and expert centers.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of vasomotor dysfunction in patients with angina and no obstructive coronary artery disease who were clinically referred for a coronary function test (CFT); and assess safety and feasibility of a CFT.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This quality improvement study was performed using the Netherlands Registry of Invasive Coronary Vasomotor Function Testing (NL-CFT), a prospective, observational registry, in 15 participating hospitals (2 tertiary and 13 nontertiary). Patients with angina and no obstructive coronary artery disease who were referred for a clinically indicated CFT between December 2020 and January 2024 were included.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A complete CFT consisted of acetylcholine spasm provocation testing and assessment of microcirculatory function. Prevalence of different endotypes based on test results and overall safety were assessed.

Results

Among a total of 1207 patients included, 978 (81%) were female; and the mean (SD) age was 60 (10) years. The prevalence of coronary vasomotor dysfunction was very high (78%). There were 11 (0.9%) major and 10 (0.8%) minor complications reported. Of them, 3 major and all minor were definitely related to the coronary function test. No procedural death, myocardial infarction, or stroke was observed. No differences were found in the occurrence of complications between tertiary and nontertiary centers.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that a CFT was feasible and safe to perform in both tertiary and nontertiary centers with a high diagnostic yield.
Aging and Technology
Authors: Formosa Marvin
Published: February 2025

Technology certainly plays a key role in enabling higher levels of active and healthy aging in later life. A growing number of studies are evidencing the benefits of technology for older persons from lower levels of depression and loneliness to higher levels of social support, life satisfaction, purpose in life, and social capital. One central concern, however, concerns the unequal take‐up of digital citizenship between younger and older generations, namely, the age digital divide, as older persons across the world are less likely to be competent in or to use technology. Advances in telemedicine and health‐related assistive technologies have made it possible for older persons to connect with their healthcare providers virtually and enabled them to perform activities of daily living.
Impact of bladder volume and bladder shape on radiotherapy consistency and treatment interruption in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Huang Sijuan , Li Ting , Guo Yujun , Mai Xiuying , Dai Xinyi , Wu Manli , He Mengxue , Liu Yang , He Liru , Yang Xin
Published: February 2025

Background

To investigate the effect of bladder volume (BV) and bladder shape on consistency and treatment interruption in prostate cancer radiotherapy (RT).

Methods

A total of 275 patients who underwent radical prostate cancer RT in our institution from April 2015 to December 2022 were enrolled. Bladder height, bladder width, and bladder length were defined and recorded. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the best cut‐off point for bladder shape. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the relationship between setup errors and bladder shapes and BV.

Results

Based on the ROC curves for 275 patients, the bladder shapes were classified into three: (a) the elongated bladder, (b) the spherical bladder, and (c) the oval bladder. Sixty‐six prostate cancer patients (1611 CBCTs) were randomly selected proportionally. It was found that bladder shape has a greater impact on setup errors than BV (BV: OR = 1.470, p = 0.037; bladder shape: OR = 2.013, p < 0.001), and the setup error of the spherical bladder in anterior–posterior (AP) direction was greater than the others (p < 0.001). In addition, the shape consistency of the spherical bladder was the worst (43.0%) during RT. Compared with the inconsistent group, the group with the same bladder shape had higher consistency in BV(CBCT/CT) (p < 0.001), and a smaller setup error in the AP direction (p < 0.001). Similarly, the treatment interruption fractions were highest in spherical bladder RT.

Conclusions

More specific bladder filling requirements should be developed for different bladder shapes. More attention should be paid to the spherical bladder for precise RT.
Prospective workup for the estimation of conceptus dose in fluoroscopically guided procedures
Authors: Marshall Emily L. , Schwarz Bryan , Glassell Megan , Lu Zheng Feng , Lee Choonsik
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To present a methodology for the estimation of conceptus dose prior to the completion of a medically required and justified interventional radiology or cardiology procedure.

Materials and Methods

The free of charge National Cancer Institute dosimetry system for Radiography and Fluoroscopy dose calculator tool was adopted to estimate organ absorbed doses through Monte Carlo radiation transport. A procedure was developed for required data collection ahead of the study for dose estimation. This information was used to build the input to the dose calculator tool. Data inclusion and assumption considerations were discussed for final report drafting and communications with the intended interventionalist.

Results

Implementation of this methodology has been used to support pre‐procedural decision making for our institutions interventionalists. Pre‐procedural conceptus dose estimates permitted an educated assessment of the risk‐benefit of the potential radiation exposure to the patient and conceptus against the medical necessity of the procedure. It can also guide the real‐time dose monitoring during the procedure when a maximum permissible cumulative air kerma (CAK) level is determined before the procedure.

Conclusion

A methodology for the estimation of conceptus dose prior to the completion of an interventional fluoroscopy procedure was developed. Due to the prospective nature of this dose estimation methodology, the model relies heavily on professional experience and, when available, quantitative metrics.
Evaluating the use of diagnostic CT with flattening filter free beams for palliative radiotherapy: Dosimetric impact of scanner calibration variability
Authors: Van de Kleut Madeleine L. , Buckley Lesley A. , Ali Elsayed S. M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Palliative radiotherapy comprises a significant portion of the radiation treatment workload. Volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) improves dose conformity and, in conjunction with flattening filter free (FFF) delivery, can decrease treatment times, both of which are desirable in a population with a high probability of retreatment with large palliative doses per fraction. Combining FFF and VMAT delivery with planning based on previously acquired diagnostic computed tomography (CT) scans has the potential to further expedite palliative treatment. This study evaluated the dosimetric uncertainty of using FFF beams with VMAT delivery on CT images acquired from different diagnostic vendors, and between different x‐ray tube energies, in the palliative setting.

Methods

CT‐relative electron density (CT‐RED) curves were acquired for the local CT simulator at 100, 120, and 140 kVp, and for two diagnostic CT scanners at 120 kVp. Thirty palliative VMAT plans were recalculated for each CT‐RED curve, with 6 MV flat, 6 FFF, and 10 FFF beams. The doses to 95% and 2% of the PTV, the maximum point dose to the spinal canal and esophagus, and the mean dose to the kidneys were compared between recalculated plans.

Results

Comparing the dose clouds for a given fluence map calculated with CT‐RED curves from different CT scanners at 120 kVp, the mean dose difference was at most 0.3% for each DVH metric. Similar results were reported when comparing dose clouds calculated with CT‐RED curves for 100, 120, and 140 kVp on the CT simulator.

Conclusion

The results of this study confirm that diagnostic scans acquired on machines different from the CT simulator associated with the TPS, are appropriate for VMAT treatment planning in the palliative setting with FFF photon beams.
Optimizing Dehydration Systems: Implementing Model Reference Adaptive Control for Enhanced Efficiency
Authors: Sánchez–Sánchez Pablo , Guillermo Cebada–Reyes José , Montiel–Martínez Aideé , Reyes–Cortés Fernando
Published: February 2025

This study presents a robust control framework for enhancing the performance of thermal systems with significant input‐induced delays, using a cabin dehydrator as a representative case study. The proposed Model Reference Adaptive Control (MRAC) strategy leverages a reference model to emulate desired system dynamics, enabling adaptive adjustments to maintain optimal performance under varying operating conditions. Stability of the system is rigorously established through Lyapunov‐based analysis, ensuring global asymptotic stability. Additionally, the frequency response of the system, characterized using Bode plots, provides critical insights into the bandwidth and responsiveness of the control strategies. A comparative evaluation is conducted with classical PD and PID controllers as well as a simplified MRAC design to highlight the advantages of the complete MRAC framework. The analysis includes stability metrics such as gain and phase margins, offering a quantitative assessment of the robustness of each controller. Experimental validation further evaluates the proposed approach in terms of its effectiveness in regulating temperature and preserving active substances during the dehydration process. The findings underscore the MRAC framework as a promising solution for achieving precise and adaptive thermal regulation in systems subject to delays.
Magnetic Field Driven Ceria Nanosystems for Mitochondria Targeted Therapy of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Liao Jun , He Wenxiu , Zhang Shiming , Wang Jingya , Cheng Hansen , Gong Lidong , Li Yanglonghao , Sun Yuhan , Lu Dan , Zhang Chuan , Lu Ying , Zhang Qiang , Lin Zhiqiang
Published: February 2025

Nanomedicine based brain targeting strategies have emerged as a promising avenue for ischemic stroke (IS) treatment. However, conventional targeting approaches face significant challenges in manipulating biodistribution and achieving efficient brain targeting to attain adequate therapeutic effects. Here, this limitation is overcame by developing a magnetic field driven, mitochondria‐targeted ceria nanosystem (MMTCe) nanosystem. By anchoring magnetic nanoparticles to the cell membrane, efficient brain targeted delivery of the nanosystem is achieved through the use of an external magnetic field, which in turn targets damaged mitochondria and repairs the ischemic microenvironment. MMTCe exhibits superior accumulation in the brain within an in vitro blood brain barrier (BBB) model and in a rat model of stroke. This targeting mediates mitochondrial function, thereby inhibiting oxidative stress and aberrant activation of microglial cells, ultimately inducing rebalancing of the ischemic microenvironment. Complemented by a favorable biosafety profile, the top‐down fabrication of MMTCe provides a general targeting strategy for brain diseases and informs the development of magnetically driven brain targeted delivery systems.
Constructing PVDF‐Based Polymer Electrolyte for Lithium Metal Batteries by Polymer‐Induced Phase Structure Adjustment Strategy
Authors: Li Yueshan , Yuan Weihao , Hu Zhen , Shen Yibo , Wu Guoshuai , Cong Fei , Fu Xinzhe , Lu Fei , Li Yunling , Liu Pengxiang , Huang Yudong , Li Jun
Published: February 2025

The phase separation between solvents and polymers during the processing leads to the porous structure of PVDF electrolyte, resulting in uneven distribution of ion channels, accelerating the growth of lithium dendrites. Moreover, the various crystal structures of PVDF hinder the migration of Li+, setting obstacles for the improvement of ion conductivity. Here, an amorphous polymer system (BPE) with excellent lithium salt affinity is introduced into the PVDF electrolyte as a bridge to eliminate phase separation structures. The porous structure of PVDF electrolyte is densified by utilizing the amorphous properties of BPE and its affinity for PVDF and lithium salt, thus homogenizing the distribution of ion channels. Furthermore, BPE inhibited the crystallization of PVDF, improving the Li+ conductivity of the polymer electrolyte. The obtained polymer electrolyte system (BPLE) has high ionic conductivity (1.6 × 10−3 S cm−1) and Li+ transference number (0.66) at room temperature. The LiFePO4||Li cell assembled with BPLE‐1 achieved an initial capacity of 149 mAh g−1 and a capacity retention rate of 98% (1C, 500 cycles, RT). At a current density of 2C, the LiFePO4||Li battery achieved a specific capacity of 142 mAh g−1 and the capacity retention rate exceeds 84% after 800 cycles.
High‐Entropy Configuration Regulating Interlayer Oxygen Charge Toward High‐Voltage and Air‐Stability Layered Cathode in High‐Loading Sodium Ion Full Batteries
Authors: Qiu Jilong , Qin Mulan , Huang Fei , Cheng Qing , Guo Shan , Cao Xinxin , Lei Yongpeng , Liang Shuquan , Fang Guozhao
Published: February 2025

Revealing interlayer oxygen charge is of great significance in understanding the high‐voltage and air stability of sodium layered cathodes, but it currently lacks attention. Particularly, the stability of sodium ion full batteries under high cathode loading (≥8 mg cm−2) also faces extremely challenges. Here, the interlayer oxygen charge and its mechanism for high‐voltage and air stability are revealed in a high‐entropy O3‐Na0.85Li0.1Al0.02Sn0.08Cu0.1Ti0.1Ni0.3Mn0.3O2 (HEO) cathode, which enables robust high‐cathode‐loading sodium‐ion full batteries. The high‐entropy doping effectively maintains the transition metal (TM)─O bond covalency, stabilizing interlayer oxygen charge. The stable O─O repulsion avoids structural collapse, realizing the P3‐OP2‐P3 reversible phase transition. Moreover, reduced interlayer oxygen charge achieves the Na layer contraction and the Na─O bond enhancement. These features inhibit the attack of water and Na loss, realizing well air stability. Therefore, the HEO cathode exhibits a good stability up to 900 cycles under 2.0‒4.3 V and a high‐capacity retention of 96.12% after 5 day air exposure. The pouch full cell with ≈16 mg cm−2 cathode loading exhibits ≈60 mAh and lasts for 100 cycles. This work contributes the new insights into both high‐voltage and air stability of layered cathodes for practical sodium ion full batteries.
Ultrafast Charge Transfer on Ru‐Cu Atomic Units for Enhanced Photocatalytic H2O2 Production
Authors: Feng Chengyang , Alharbi Jumanah , Hu Miao , Zuo Shouwei , Luo Jun , Qahtani Hassan S. Al , Rueping Magnus , Huang Kuo‐Wei , Zhang Huabin
Published: February 2025

Photosensitizer‐assisted photocatalytic systems offer a solution to overcome the limitations of inherent light harvesting capabilities in catalysts. However, achieving efficient charge transfer between the dissociative photosensitizer and catalyst poses a significant challenge. Incorporating photosensitive components into reactive centers to establish well‐defined charge transfer channels is expected to effectively address this issue. Herein, the electrostatic‐driven self‐assembly method is utilized to integrate photosensitizers into metal–organic frameworks, constructing atomically Ru‐Cu bi‐functional units to promote efficient local electron migration. Within this newly constructed system, the [Ru(bpy)2]2+ component and Cu site serve as photosensitive and catalytic active centers for photocarrier generation and H2O2 production, respectively, and their integration significantly reduces the barriers to charge transfer. Ultrafast spectroscopy and in situ characterization unveil accelerated directional charge transfer over Ru‐Cu units, presenting orders of magnitude improvement over dissociative photosensitizer systems. As a result, a 37.2‐fold enhancement of the H2O2 generation rate (570.9 µmol g−1 h−1) over that of dissociative photosensitizer system (15.3 µmol g−1 h−1) is achieved. This work presents a promising strategy for integrating atomic‐scale photosensitive and catalytic active centers to achieve ultrafast photocarrier transfer and enhanced photocatalytic performance.
Mechanically Compatible Sealing of Hydrogel with Coherent Interface
Authors: Cai Daohang , Xia Rui , Shao Yan , Chen Guoli , Liu Liqian , Li Yunfei , Zhang Pei , Zhi Yinglin , Li Chun , Wen Yifan , Cheng Xing , Liu Ji , Yu Yanhao
Published: February 2025

Long‐term operation of hydrogels relies on protective coatings to avoid water swelling or evaporation, but these protections often cause substantial decreases in overall softness and stretchability. Here, a mechanically compatible seal with a coherent interfacial design is developed to encapsulate hydrogels. This seal is made from polybutylene (PIB) and polypropylene‐graft‐maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MAH) blended poly(styrene‐isobutylene‐styrene) (SIBS). The PIB oligomers soften the SIBS networks, while the MAH groups facilitate covalent bonding between the SIBS and hydrogel. The sealed hydrogel exhibits an elastic modulus of 24 kPa and an elongation at a break of >1000%, both comparable to those of the pristine hydrogel. The adhesion energy between the seal and hydrogel reached >140 J m−2 and can be further increased to >400 J m−2 by a thermal treatment. This tough interface, together with the intrinsically low water vapor transmission rate of SIBS, allows the sealed hydrogel to maintain its modulus and stretchability after 10 days of drying in air. The sealed hydrogel is chemically and mechanically stable under harsh conditions, including acidic/alkaline/salty solutions, high temperatures, and cyclic mechanical deformation. This strategy applies to various hydrogels with diverse compositions and structures, leading to orders of magnitude improvements in the longevity of hydrogel‐based electronic devices.
Fully Field‐Free Spin‐Orbit Torque Switching Induced by Spin Splitting Effect in Altermagnetic RuO2
Authors: Li Zhuoyi , Zhang Zhe , Chen Yuzhe , Hu Sicong , Ji Yingjie , Yan Yu , Du Jun , Li Yao , He Liang , Wang Xuefeng , Wu Jing , Zhang Rong , Xu Yongbing , Lu Xianyang
Published: February 2025

Altermagnetism, a newly identified class of magnetism blending characteristics of both ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism, is emerging as a compelling frontier in spintronics. This study reports a groundbreaking discovery of robust, 100% field‐free spin‐orbit torque (SOT) switching in a RuO2(101)/[Co/Pt]2/Ta structure. The experimental results reveal that the spin currents, induced by the in‐plane charge current, flow along the [100] axis, with the spin polarization direction aligned parallel to the Néel vector. These z‐polarized spins generate an out‐of‐plane anti‐damping torque, enabling deterministic switching of the Co/Pt layer without the necessity of an external magnetic field. The altermagnetic spin splitting effect (ASSE) in RuO2 promotes the generation of spin currents with pronounced anisotropic behavior, maximized when the charge current flows along the [010] direction. This unique capability yields the highest field‐free switching ratio, maintaining stable SOT switching even under a wide range of external magnetic fields, demonstrating exceptional resistance to magnetic interference. Notably, the ASSE‐dominated spin current is found to be most effective when the current is aligned with the [010] direction. The study highlights the potential of RuO2 as a powerful spin current generator, opening new avenues for advancing spin‐torque switching technologies and other cutting‐edge spintronic devices.
Cooperative Magnetic Interfacial Microrobot Couple for Versatile Non‐Contact Biomedical Applications
Authors: Chen Bowen , Wu Hao , Chen Yiyu , Cheng Kangru , Zhou Ying , Zhang Juan , Wang Chaowei , Li Jiawen , Wu Dong , Chu Jiaru , Hu Yanlei
Published: February 2025

Magnetic interfacial microrobots are increasingly recognized as a promising approach for potential biomedical applications ranging from electronic functionalization to minimally invasive surgery and targeted drug delivery. Nevertheless, existing research faces challenges, including less cooperative interactions, contact‐based cargo manipulation, and slow transport velocity. Here, the cooperative magnetic interfacial microrobot couple (CMIMC) is proposed to address the above challenges. The CMIMC can be maneuvered by a single magnet and readily switched between capture and release states. By leveraging cooperative interactions and meticulous engineering of capillary forces through shape design and surface treatment, the CMIMC demonstrates the ability to perform non‐contact cargo manipulation. Using the synergy of preferred magnetization directions and magnetic field distribution, along with optimization of the resistance‐reducing shape, the CMIMC significantly enhances the cargo transport velocity, reaching 12.2 body length per second. The studies demonstrate various biomedical applications like targeted drug delivery and myomectomy, paving the way for the broad implementation of interfacial microrobots in biomedical fields.
Large‐Scale 2D Perovskite Nanocrystals Photodetector Array via Ultrasonic Spray Synthesis
Authors: Lee Yoon Ho , Lee Won‐June , Lee Gang San , Park Jee Yung , Yuan Biao , Won Yousang , Mun Jungho , Yang Hanjun , Baek Sung‐Doo , Lee Haeun , Oh Joon Hak , Pennycook Timothy J. , Kim Gwangwoo , Mei Jianguo , Dou Letian
Published: February 2025

2D perovskite (PVSK) single crystals have received significant attention due to their unique optical and optoelectronic properties. However, current synthesis methods face limitations, particularly in large‐area fabrication, which remain critical barriers to practical applications. In this study, the synthesis of red/green/purple‐blue‐colored 2D PVSK nanocrystals over a large area (4‐inch wafer) and the fabrication of high‐performance photodetector arrays are presented via a facile yet efficient spray‐coating approach with a liquid‐bridge transport effect. The photodetector array achieves 100% working yield, high photo‐responsivity (1.5 × 106 A W−1) and specific‐detectivity (1.1 × 1016 Jones) with competitive photomapping characteristics. An intelligent vision system for automatic shape recognition is further demonstrated with a recognition rate exceeding 90%. This study provides significant advances in the scalable synthesis of nanoscale 2D PVSK crystals, their integration into large‐area optoelectronic devices, and their potential use in artificial‐intelligence systems.
Dual‐Gradient Silk‐Based Hydrogel for Spatially Targeted Delivery and Osteochondral Regeneration
Authors: Wang Yushu , Qin Xiaoyan , Feng Yunhao , Zhang Ti , Wang Xinyu , Li Jia , Yin Pengbin , Yu Yingjie , Liu Chaoyong
Published: February 2025

Contemporary clinical interventions for cartilage injuries focus on symptom management through pharmaceuticals and surgical procedures. Recent research has aimed at developing innovative scaffolds with biochemical elements, yet challenges like inadequate targeted delivery and reduced load‐bearing capacity hinder their adoption. Inspired by the spatial gradients of biophysical and biochemical cues in native osteochondral tissues, a silk‐based hydrogel that facilitates spontaneous dual‐gradient formation, including mechanical gradients and growth factor gradients, for tissue regeneration, is presented. Driven by an electrical field, the hydrogel transitions from stiff to soft along the anode‐to‐cathode direction, mimicking the anisotropic structure of natural tissues. Simultaneously, incorporated growth factors encapsulated by charged monomers migrate to the cathode region, creating another parallel gradient that enables their sustained release. This design maintains bioactivity and enhances programmable growth factor concentration in the defect environment. In a rabbit model with full‐thickness osteochondral defects, the dual‐gradient hydrogel demonstrates significant potential for promoting osteochondral regeneration, offering a promising tool for clinical translation.
Unveiling a Cooperative Mechanism for the Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction: Role of Built‐in Electric Field
Authors: Krishankant  , Bisht Rohit , Kumar Alok , Upreti Deepak , Kaur Baljeet , Urkude Rajashri R. , Bera Chandan , Bagchi Vivek
Published: February 2025

The work function has a significant influence on surface charge distribution, particularly when a built‐in electric field (BIEF) is present. Recent research is focused on leveraging BIEFs at the interface of different electronic environments to improve hydrogen production. Therefore, analyzing and correlating parameters such as the work function, BIEF, and Gibbs free energy is crucial for understanding the reaction mechanism. Herein, a p‐n heterojunction of CuO‐CuWO4 is created to form a moderate space‐charge region at the interface. The Gibbs free energy (∆G) in the depletion regime displays behavior that contrasts with that of the bulk region, facilitating the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Along the heterojunction interface, the ∆G indicates high adsorption affinity of protons toward the CuO phase and significant desorption at the CuWO4 phase. The catalyst effectively fine‐tunes its ∆G value relative to surface coverage and exhibits a negative cooperative effect. The Gibbs free energy of the catalyst shows that up to 80% surface coverage, the catalyst surface maintains a high proton adsorption affinity (−1.05 eV), which gradually decreases to −0.05 eV at 100% coverage. The catalyst surpassed commercial Pt/C, demonstrating higher efficiency and achieving a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of just 21 mV.
Intrasexual Selection for Upper Limb Length in Homo sapiens
Authors: Caton Neil R. , Lewis David M. G.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Sexual selection via contest competition has equipped countless organisms with weaponry in their appendages to overpower their opponents. Here, we tested (1) whether greater upper limb length—measured as span controlling for biacromial width—confers an advantage in contest competition among adult humans, (2) several possible means by which upper limb length might increase success in intrasexual contest competition, and (3) whether, consistent with male–male contest competition creating stronger selection pressures than female–female contest competition, male Homo sapiens have greater upper limb length.

Methods

We collected fight statistics and facial and body photographs from professional combatants (N = 715) in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC; Study 1). Sexual dimorphism in upper limb length was then examined via diverse and demographically representative samples from four studies (total N = 6915), from Croatian adolescents and older Singaporean adults to United States Army personnel born across all major world regions (Studies 2a–2d).

Results

First, we found that greater upper limb length is associated with increased success in intrasexual contest competition, an effect driven by both the capacity to grapple opponents to submission and to knock opponents unconscious (Study 1). Second, we found unequivocal, cross‐cultural evidence of unique sexual dimorphism in upper limb length after controlling for allometry: across four studies, men exhibited longer upper limbs than women (Studies 2a–2d).

Conclusion

Upper limb length may have been shaped by intrasexual selection, with implications across the biological, anthropological, and psychological sciences.
Content Validity of Patient‐Reported Outcome Measures Developed for Assessing Disease‐Specific Quality of Life in Children With Sinonasal Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Williams Isabelle , Rotimi Oloruntobi , Burrows Lisa , Navaratnam Annakan V. , Tan Neil
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Paediatric sinonasal disease is prevalent worldwide, giving rise to substantial healthcare costs and morbidity. However, there is a lack of sinus‐specific patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) tailored for children. This study aimed to evaluate existing PROMs against established validation criteria to determine whether a paediatric‐specific, validated instrument for assessing sinonasal disease currently exists.

Methods

Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Emcare (Ovid), and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to January 2024. Eligibility was restricted to PROM development or content validity studies conducted in all children with sinonasal disease. Content validity was assessed using the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methodology, with evidence graded using a modified GRADE approach.

Results

Five PROMs were identified: two for acute sinus disease (Sinus‐5 [S5] and Paediatric Rhinosinusitis Symptom Scale [PRSS]), two for general rhinosinusitis (Sinonasal‐5 [SN‐5] and Modified Sinonasal Outcome Test‐20 Young Persons Questionnaire [MSYPQ]) and one specific to primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD; PCD quality of life [PCD‐QoL]). No content validity studies were included in the final analysis. The development of the S5, PRSS, SN‐5 and MSYPQ was found to be inadequate, supported by low‐quality evidence, whereas the PCD‐QoL stood out as a well‐developed tool created using established evidence‐based guidelines.

Conclusions

Among the assessed tools, only the PCD‐QoL met standards for use in clinical trials, highlighting the need for a dedicated instrument to track disease status and QoL in otherwise healthy children with sinonasal disease.
Dissociable spatial topography of cortical atrophy in early‐onset and late‐onset Alzheimer's disease: A head‐to‐head comparison of the LEADS and ADNI cohorts
Authors: Katsumi Yuta , Touroutoglou Alexandra , Brickhouse Michael , Eloyan Ani , Eckbo Ryan , Zaitsev Alexander , La Joie Renaud , Lagarde Julien , Schonhaut Daniel , Thangarajah Maryanne , Taurone Alexander , Vemuri Prashanthi , Jack Clifford R. , Dage Jeffrey L. , Nudelman Kelly N. H. , Foroud Tatiana , Hammers Dustin B. , Ghetti Bernardino , Murray Melissa E. , Newell Kathy L. , Polsinelli Angelina J. , Aisen Paul , Reman Rema , Beckett Laurel , Kramer Joel H. , Atri Alireza , Day Gregory S. , Duara Ranjan , Graff‐Radford Neill R. , Grant Ian M. , Honig Lawrence S. , Johnson Erik C. B. , Jones David T. , Masdeu Joseph C. , Mendez Mario F. , Musiek Erik , Onyike Chiadi U. , Riddle Meghan , Rogalski Emily , Salloway Stephen , Sha Sharon , Turner R. Scott , Wingo Thomas S. , Wolk David A. , Womack Kyle , Carrillo Maria C. , Rabinovici Gil D. , Apostolova Liana G. , Dickerson Bradford C. ,   the LEADS Consortium for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: February 2025

INTRODUCTION

Early‐onset and late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD and LOAD, respectively) have distinct clinical manifestations, with prior work based on small samples suggesting unique patterns of neurodegeneration. The current study performed a head‐to‐head comparison of cortical atrophy in EOAD and LOAD, using two large and well‐characterized cohorts (LEADS and ADNI).

METHODS

We analyzed brain structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data acquired from 377 sporadic EOAD patients and 317 sporadicLOAD patients who were amyloid positive and had mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia (i.e., early‐stage AD), along with cognitively unimpaired participants.

RESULTS

After controlling for the level of cognitive impairment, we found a double dissociation between AD clinical phenotype and localization/magnitude of atrophy, characterized by predominant neocortical involvement in EOAD and more focal anterior medial temporal involvement in LOAD.

DISCUSSION

Our findings point to the clinical utility of MRI‐based biomarkers of atrophy in differentiating between EOAD and LOAD, which may be useful for diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment.

Highlights

Early‐onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD) and late‐onset AD (LOAD) patients showed distinct and overlapping cortical atrophy patterns.

EOAD patients showed prominent atrophy in widespread neocortical regions.

LOAD patients showed prominent atrophy in the anterior medial temporal lobe.

Regional atrophy was correlated with the severity of global cognitive impairment.

Results were comparable when the sample was stratified for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.
Unlocking ocular biomarkers for early detection of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Dave Nikhil , Lee Melissa , Pavlou Hania , Im Owen , Goh Kim , Ulin Sam , Malzbender Kristina , Shobin Eli , Sukumar Aishwarya
Published: February 2025

Recent evidence suggests that ocular testing holds promise as a non‐invasive and cost‐effective method for the early detection of Alzheimer's disease (AD). After interviews with neurologists, optometrists, primary care physicians, and ophthalmologists, the potential for ocular biomarker testing to become a standard clinical practice in the future was assessed. Ocular tests offer a non‐invasive alternative to blood‐based testing, capturing a substantial niche of ≈ 4 to 8 million individuals in the United States during routine eye exams. Technical requirements for broad adoption include high accuracy comparable to blood‐based tests and 510(k) clearance. Ocular biomarker technology must meet the practical requirements of optometrists and ophthalmologists, including ease of implementation, automation, and a clear path to profitability. A sufficient body of evidence to support guideline inclusion, reimbursement, and clinical actionability will facilitate the adoption. As the field evolves, advances such as earlier detection of preclinical AD may further expand the role of ocular testing.

Highlights

Ocular biomarkers offer another non‐invasive alternative to blood‐based Alzheimer's disease testing.

Wide adoption will require accuracy akin to blood‐based tests and 510(k) clearance.

Ocular screening could benefit ≈ 4 to 8 million US individuals conducting routine eye exams.

Current ocular offerings remain nascent, and advances could expand this reach.

New technology must show ease of implementation, automation, and a path to profit.
Development and validation of BCG vaccine‐induced novel granulomatous liver injury preclinical animal model
Authors: Sharma Swati , Moudgil Abhishek , Grewal Jyoti , Khatri Pankaj , Sharma Vishal , Premkumar Madhumita , Bal Amanjit , Banerjee Dibyajyoti , Patil Amol N.
Published: February 2025

Background

Developing a granulomatous liver injury preclinical model may pave the way to understanding hepatic‐TB (tuberculosis) and autoimmune granulomatous liver diseases. Antitubercular (ATT) and other drugs' metabolism in the presence of a specific type of liver injury is not well understood. The present study aimed to establish a preclinical model of granulomatous hepatitis by using the BCG (Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin) vaccine, further studying it in the presence of ATT dosing, and analyze the pharmacokinetics of isoniazid, rifampicin, and their respective primary metabolites.

Methods

We used 56 rats in seven equal groups. Group I functioned as a normal control (NC) receiving normal saline only. Groups II–IV received intravenous injections of low‐, medium‐, and high‐dose BCG vaccine daily for 21 days. Groups V, VI, and VII received isoniazid (H) alone, rifampicin (R) alone, and isoniazid + rifampicin(HR) for a subsequent 15 days in addition to high dose BCG for the first 21 days, respectively. Liver function tests (LFT) were monitored on days 0, 21, 28, and 36. Rats were sacrificed later for oxidative stress and histopathological examination.

Results

The study observed BCG dose‐specific LFT derangements in groups II–IV compared to group I on day 21 (p < 0.05). Isoniazid, rifampicin, and combination intervention groups demonstrated normalization of the BCG‐led LFT changes. Histology and oxidative stress parameters confirmed model development and biochemical changes. Isoniazid area under the curve (AUC) showed a reduction of 16.9% in BCG + HR group in comparison to the BCG + H group (p = 0.01). Des‐acetyl‐rifampicin AUC and maximum‐concentration value demonstrated a significant rise in BCG + HR group in comparison to the BCG + R group (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

A novel preclinical model of granulomatous liver injury was developed using the BCG vaccine strain and validated with ATT response.
Pressure‐Driven Reactivity in Dense Methane‐Nitrogen Mixtures
Authors: Shuttleworth Hannah Alice , Kuzovnikov Mikhail A. , Conway Lewis J. , Hu Huixin , Gallego-Parra Samuel , Osmond Israel , Marqueno Tomas , Yan Jinwei , Hanfland Michael , Laniel Dominique , Gregoryanz Eugene , Hermann Andreas , Pena-Alvarez Miriam , Howie Ross T.
Published: February 2025

Carbon, nitrogen, and hydrogen are among the most abundant elements in the solar system, and our understanding of their interactions is fundamental to prebiotic chemistry. CH4 and N2 are the simplest archetypical molecules formed by these elements and are both markedly stable under extremes of pressure. Through a series of diamond anvil cell experiments supported by density functional theory calculations, we observe diverse compound formation and unexpected reactivity in the dense CH4‐N2 system. Above 7GPa two concentration‐dependent molecular compounds emerge, (CH4)5N2 and (CH4)7(N2)8, held together by weak van der Waals interactions. Strikingly, further compression at room temperature irreversibly breaks the N2 triple bond, inducing the dissociation of CH4 above 140GPa, with the nearquenched samples revealing distinct spectroscopic signatures of strong covalently bonded C‐N‐H networks. High temperatures vastly reduce the required pressure to promote the reactivity between CH4 and N2, with NH3 forming together with longer‐chain hydrocarbons at 14GPa and 670K, further decomposing into powdered diamond when temperatures exceed 1200K. These results exemplify how pressuredriven chemistry can cause unexpected complexity in the most simple molecular precursors.
New Peripheral Pyridine‐Substituted Cobalt, Copper, and Manganese Phthalocyanines as Potential In Vitro Acetyl/Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Yalazan Halise , Seyhan Gökçe , Özkan Şeyma , Barut Burak , Biyiklioglu Zekeriya , Kantekin Halit
Published: February 2025

In this research, we designed phthalocyanine compounds that are thought to be used as potential acetyl/butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. First, phthalonitrile compound (PNM‐CN), which is the precursor compound for phthalocyanines, was synthesized. Then, by cyclotetramerizing this compound, pyridine‐substituted peripheral cobalt (PNM‐CoPc), copper (PNM‐CuPc), and manganese (PNM‐MnClPc) phthalocyanine compounds were synthesized, and their structures were described using mass, NMR (except phthalocyanines), FT‐IR, and UV–Vis (except phthalonitrile) spectroscopic techniques. Investigations were carried out into the new pyridine‐substituted peripheral (PNM‐Cu/Co/MnClPcs) phthalocyanines' in vitro inhibitory properties against butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). With an IC50 of 5.95 ± 2.12 μM (AChE) and 0.74 ± 0.01 μM (BuChE), PNM‐CuPc showed the most potent inhibitory effect against AChE and BuChE among all compounds.
Study on Quality Evaluation of Er Miao San Based on HPLC Fingerprinting Combined With Multi‐Indicator Content Determination
Authors: Xue Shuyan , Song Feichao , Wei Na , Liu Yuxuan , Liu Muchun , Huang Xi , Zhang Yumeng , Liu Yang , Hao Huiqin , Zhang Junfeng
Published: February 2025

We aim to establish the fingerprint profile of Er Miao San (EMS) that aims to accurately evaluate the quality of EMS samples and to identify quality markers for different batches of EMS and explore its related targets and pathways for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. HPLC was employed with an Agilent C18 column. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis were conducted by using SPSS and SIMCA software. Network pharmacology techniques were utilized to explore the potential targets and pathways of EMS in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The HPLC fingerprint profile of EMS was established, featuring a total of 15 common peaks, among which nine were identified. The 10 batches of medicinal materials could be clustered into three categories. With VIP > 1 as the criterion, four index differential components were screened out. These intersections were imported into the STRING database and Cytoscape software, resulting in 228 intersection targets. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed on the related targets and pathways. The established method can effectively analyze the quality differences of EMS from different origins. The screened targets and pathways are of great significance for analyzing the differences in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis by different batches of EMS.