bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Microneedle Patch Delivers Mitochondria‐ and Lysosomes‐ Dual Targeting Prodrug‐Like Photosensitizers with Regulated Photoactivity for Precise Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Liu Zheng , Tang Zhimin , Yin Ying , Wan Miaojian , Zhan Jiezhao , Ren Li
Published: February 2025

Antitumor photodynamic therapy (PDT) faces huge challenges as selectivity and phototoxic damage, requiring delivery photosensitizers (PSs) to specifically accumulate in tumors even in organelle, and avoid the phototoxic damage during delivery. Herein, a microneedle patch (AIE‐mito‐TPP@MN) containing mitochondria‐ and lysosomes‐ dual targeting prodrug‐like PSs (AIE‐mito‐TPP/AlPcSNa4) that is self‐assembled by mitochondria‐targeted aggregation‐induced‐emission molecule (AIE‐mito‐TPP) and lysosome‐targeted aluminum phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate (AlPcSNa4), is developed to achieve cancer‐cell‐organelle‐specific targeting delivery for precise PDT with high selectivity and low phototoxic damage. AIE‐mito‐TPP/AlPcSNa4 displays prodrug‐like activity via the regulated photoactivity to reduce the phototoxic damage caused by the “always on” PSs. Meanwhile, AIE‐mito‐TPP/AlPcSNa4@MN can insert into the epidermis to achieve rapid AIE‐mito‐TPP/AlPcSNa4 delivery in tumor lesion, and enhance selective accumulation in tumor cells. The higher lysosomal acidity in tumor cells facilitates AIE‐mito‐TPP/AlPcSNa4 disassembly and promotes targeting. Under light irradiation, AIE‐mito‐TPP/AlPcSNa4@MN impairs mitochondrial and lysosomal function to induce deeper tumor cells apoptosis at a low dose (≈6 µg), presenting greater therapeutic efficacy than AIE‐mito‐TPP@MN, AlPcSNa4@MN, or intravenous injection. Moreover, AIE‐mito‐TPP/AlPcSNa4@MN presents good biocompatibility as lower accumulation and targeting in normal cells, as well as the regulated photoactivity of prodrug‐like PSs. Therefore, the dual organelle‐targeting microneedle possesses great potential for precise PDT with high selectivity.
Emerging Trends in Bioinspired Superhydrophobic and Superoleophobic Sustainable Surfaces
Authors: Cormican Cerys M. , Bektaş Sinem , Martin‐Martinez Francisco J. , Alexander Shirin
Published: February 2025

Inspired by nature's ability to master materials for performance and sustainability, biomimicry has enabled the creation of bioinspired materials for structural color, superadhesion, hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity, among many others. This review summarizes the emerging trends in novel sustainable fluorocarbon‐free bioinspired designs for creating superhydrophobic and superoleophobic surfaces. It discusses methods, challenges, and future directions, alongside the impact of computational modeling and artificial intelligence in accelerating the experimental development of more sustainable surface materials. While significant progress is made in superhydrophobic materials, sustainable superoleophobic surfaces remain a challenge. However, bioinspiration and experimental techniques supported by computational platforms are paving the way to new renewable and biodegradable repellent surfaces that meet environmental standards without sacrificing performance. Nevertheless, despite environmental concerns, and policies, several bioinspired designs still continue to apply fluorination and other environmentally harmful techniques to achieve the required standard of repellency. As discussed in this critical review, a new paradigm that integrates advanced materials characterization, nanotechnology, additive manufacturing, computational modeling, and artificial intelligence is coming, to generate bioinspired materials with tailored superhydrophobicity and superoleophobicity while adhering to environmental standards.
Andrias davidianus Derived Glycosaminoglycans Direct Diabetic Wound Repair by Reprogramming Reparative Macrophage Glucolipid Metabolism
Authors: Yang Peng , Lu Yifei , Gou Weiming , Qin Yiming , Zhang Xingyue , Li Jingyuan , Zhang Qiong , Zhang Xiaorong , He Dengfeng , Wang Yangping , Xue Dongdong , Liu Menglong , Chen Yu , Zhou Junyi , Zhang Ximu , Lv Junjiang , Tan Jianglin , Luo Gaoxing , Zhang Qing
Published: February 2025

Harnessing cross‐species regenerative cues to direct human regenerative potential is increasingly recognized as an excellent strategy in regenerative medicine, particularly for addressing the challenges of impaired wound healing in aging populations. The skin mucus of Andrias davidianus plays a critical role in self‐protection and tissue repair, yet the fundamental regenerative factors and mechanisms involved remain elusive. Here, this work presents evidence that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) derived from the skin secretion of Andrias davidianus (SAGs) serve as potent mediators of angiogenesis and inflammatory remodeling, facilitating efficient healing of diabetic wounds. Mechanistic studies reveal that SAGs promote macrophage polarization toward an anti‐inflammatory and pro‐regenerative phenotype (CD206+/Arg1+) via glucolipid metabolic reprogramming. This process suppresses excessive inflammation and enhances the expression of VEGF and IL‐10 to create a facilitative microenvironment for tissue regeneration. Additionally, this work develops SAGs‐GelMA composite microspheres that address multiple stages of wound healing, including rapid hemostasis, exudate control, and activation of endogenous regenerative processes. This engineered approach significantly improves the scarless healing of diabetic wounds by facilitating the recruitment and activation of reparative macrophages. The findings offer new insights into the regenerative mechanisms of Andrias davidianus and highlight the potential therapeutic application of SAGs in tissue repair.
Access to 2,2‐Halofluorobicyclo[1.1.1] pentanes via Non Ozone‐depleting Ethyl Dihalofluoroacetate
Authors: Prakash Surya , Zhu Ziyue , Tang Jiaqi , Coe Matthew , Knieb Alexander , Xu Yijie , Lin Daniel , Zhang Chao
Published: February 2025

An operationally simple protocol to access 2,2‐chlorofluoro‐, and 2,2‐bromofluorobicyclopentanes (BCPs) via commercially available, inexpensive, non‐ozone depleting, and bench stable reagents is reported. The resulting BCP products are tolerated in diverse, synthetically relevant post‐functionalization reactions. Gram‐scale reactions to prepare the BCPs are also included.
Chalcogenide Metasurfaces Enabling Ultra‐Wideband Detectors From Visible to Mid‐infrared
Authors: Zhang Shutao , An Shu , Dai Mingjin , Wu Qing Yang Steve , Adanan Nur Qalishah , Zhang Jun , Liu Yan , Lee Henry Yit Loong , Wong Nancy Lai Mun , Suwardi Ady , Ding Jun , Simpson Robert Edward , Wang Qi Jie , Yang Joel K. W. , Dong Zhaogang
Published: February 2025

Thermoelectric materials can be designed to support optical resonances across multiple spectral ranges to enable ultra‐wideband photodetection. For instance, antimony telluride (Sb2Te3) chalcogenide exhibits interband plasmonic resonances in the visible range and Mie resonances in the mid‐infrared (mid‐IR) range, while simultaneously possessing large thermoelectric Seebeck coefficients of 178 µV K−1. However, chalcogenide metasurfaces for achieving miniaturized and wavelength‐sensitive ultra‐wideband detectors have not been explored so far, especially with a single material platform. In this paper, Sb2Te3 metasurface devices are designed and fabricated to achieve ≈97% resonant absorption for enabling photodetectors operating across an ultra‐wideband spectrum, from visible to mid‐IR. Furthermore, relying on linear polarization‐sensitive Sb2Te3 metasurface, the thermoelectric photodetectors with linear polarization‐selectivity are demonstrated. This work provides a potential platform toward the portable ultrawide band spectrometers without requiring cryogenic cooling, for environmental sensing applications.
Thermal Runaway Mechanism of Composite Cathodes for All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Wu Yu , Zhang Wenjie , Rui Xinyu , Ren Dongsheng , Xu Chengshan , Liu Xiang , Feng Xuning , Ma Zhuang , Lu Languang , Ouyang Minggao
Published: February 2025

Sulfide‐based all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) are widely recognized as one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage technologies. High‐mass‐loaded composite cathode is crucial for the electrochemical performance of ASSBs. However, the safety characteristics of practical composite cathodes have not been reported. Herein, the thermal runaway mechanisms of composite cathodes under different pressures are systematically revealed by employing pellet pressing of the LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) and Li6PS5Cl (LPSC). Completely different from conventional safety perceptions of powder, as the compaction density of the composite cathode increases, an inert P2Sx protective layer is generated in situ via the intensified the redox reactions at the interface, which inhibited exothermic reactions between the oxygen released from the NCM811 and LPSC. This work sheds light on the thermal runaway mechanisms of practical composite cathodes in sulfide‐based ASSBs, which can effectively build a bridge between academic and industrial research for the safety design of ASSBs.
Constructing Autoregulative Electric Double Layer Through Dielectric Effect Toward Fast Charging Zinc Metal Anode
Authors: Li Yuying , Ping Boyu , Qu Junnan , Ren Jingxuan , Lin Cheng , Lei Jiahao , Chen Jinhao , Li Jingyao , Liu Renming , Long Xintao , Guo Xinli , Luo Dan , Chen Zhongwei
Published: February 2025

The inhomogeneous dendrite growth and parasitic side reactions of Zn anodes as well as its sluggish solvation/de‐solvation kinetics severely hinder the practicalization of fast charging Zn‐ion batteries. Regulating electric double layer (EDL) structure is an effective strategy to address these issues. Herein, a perovskite dielectric ZnTiO3 (ZTO) layer is designed on Zn anode to construct the autoregulative EDL for achieving fast charging capability. The ZTO layer can spontaneously generate the surface charge with external voltage to regulate the EDL structure, which results in an increased/decreased EDL capacitance under Zn plating/stripping potential respectively, leading to promoted Zn2+ solvation/de‐solvation for rapid reaction kinetics. Meanwhile, the H2O‐insufficient environment created by self‐regulated EDL and uniform electric field can prevent side reaction and dendrite growth during deposition process. Attributed to its EDL feature, ZTO@Zn exhibits an excellent cycle stability over 2850 h at 1 mA cm−2 in symmetrical cells. Even at high current density of 50 mA cm−2, it still exhibits a stable cycle for 230 h. Additionally, the as assembled ZTO@Zn//AC supercapacitor demonstrates ultralong lifetime of 140 000 cycles at 5 A g−1. This work provides an effective EDL regulation strategy to realize fast charging capability of metal anode for its practical application.
Exploring Challenging C2+ Products During CO2 Reduction via Machine Learning Acceleration
Authors: Sun Mingzi , Huang Bolong
Published: February 2025

Although CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) has achieved significant progress in past years, the C2+ products are mainly limited to a few products, while many other products have rarely been reported in experiments with a limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Accordingly, in this work, machine learning (ML)‐based theoretical investigations is conducted to uncover the reaction mechanisms for the conversion to challenging C₂+ products (C2H6, CH3OCH3, CH2CO, and C2H2) during CO2RR on graphdiyne‐supported atomic catalysts (GDY‐ACs) with well‐defined active sites. Using the first‐principles machine learning (FPML) predictions, key factors limiting the diversity of C2+ products are identified. The conversions to C2H6 are mainly hindered by large rate‐determining step (RDS) barriers (>4 eV). The formation of CH2CO meets the competitive reactions due to similar reaction pathways with C2H6, which also undergoes further hydrogenation easily to other C2+ products. The CH3OCH3 formation is hindered by large dehydration barriers caused by steric hindrance induced by the neighboring adsorption of C1 intermediates. FPML predictions also reveal the significance of binding configuration parameters in realizing efficient and accurate predictions. This work offers not only important references to the low selectivity of specific C2+ products but also critical theoretical insights into CO2RR mechanisms.
Impact of rural roads on agricultural exports in India: An instrumental variable approach
Authors: Bansal Manu
Published: February 2025

In this study, we estimate the effect of rural roads on agricultural exports in India. We use a novel data set of state‐level agricultural exports at a highly disaggregated product level (HS6). We combine it with publicly available data on road construction under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) from 2004 to 2016 to estimate the effect of rural road access on agricultural exports. We use the instrumental variable (IV) approach, whereby we use discontinuity in treatment under the program at the population‐based eligibility cut‐offs for road construction as a plausible exogenous variation in road placement. This rectifies the endogeneity bias due to the placement of road construction. We find strong evidence of the positive effect of increased access to rural roads on agricultural exports. In search of mechanisms, we also find evidence of an increase in the mechanization of farms due to the construction of rural roads. We also find that the results were primarily driven by states having more initial agricultural productivity.
Dehydrogenative Coupling Reaction for the Synthesis of 5‐ and 6‐Heterocyclic Derivatives including Arylquinolin‐2(1H)‐ones
Authors: Joly Nicolas , Mauclaire Clara , Gaillard Sylvain , Poater Albert , Renaud Jean Luc
Published: February 2025

Heterocycle synthesis is an intense research area due to their significant importance in pharmaceutical, material chemistry and fine synthesis. Key innovations include transition metal‐based‐catalyzed heterocyclic derivatives synthesis, which facilitates diverse structural modifications, enhances selectivities and efficiency. The necessity to develop more greener technologies for the construction of new C‐C and C‐N bonds has strived chemists to re‐design their synthetic strategy plan and to introduce abundant starting materials. Among these new transformations, acceptorless dehydrogenative coupling (ADC) reactions have received increased attention thanks to their atom‐economy, the use of alcohols as pro‐electrophiles and the formation of water and hydrogen gas as only by‐products. These methods exemplify the interplay between traditional and cutting‐edge techniques, providing a robust synthetic toolkit to address the growing demand for biologically relevant compounds with tailored functionalities. This review will focus on the acceptorless dehydrogenative coupling methodologies for the synthesis of nitrogen‐containing 5‐ and 6‐membered heterocyclic derivatives (such as pyrroles, pyrimidines, quinazolines, and quinoxalines) in the presence of 3d‐metal complexes. The state of the art of the ADC process underscores the continuous evolution of synthetic strategies and emphases its importance in creating valuable and structurally diverse compounds, ensuring their centrality in both academic and pharmaceutical research.
Construction of 2‐(Trifluoromethyl)‐[1,2,4]Triazolo[1,5‐a]Quinoline Derivatives via Cycloaddition of N‐Amino Quinolinium Salts with CF3CN
Authors: Weng Zhiqiang , Chen Zhezuo , Yang Peiqi , Chen Shouxiong , Yang Fafu
Published: February 2025

A (3+2)‐cycloaddition of N‐amino quinolinium salts with in situ generated triﬂuoroacetonitrile is disclosed. The reaction affords access to structurally diverse 2‐(trifluoromethyl)‐[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐a]quinoline derivatives in good yields, utilizing 2,2,2‐trifluoroacetaldehyde O‐(aryl)oxime as precursor of triﬂuoroacetonitrile.
Roadmap to Catalytic Abatement of Gas Phase Per‐ and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Authors: Lott Patrick , Maurer Florian , Beck Arik
Published: February 2025

While the outstanding stability of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) paved the way for their widespread application in a huge variety of applications, it also resulted in their nickname "forever chemicals". The rising awareness for PFAS‐related environmental and health concerns drives a discussion on the most effective ways to abate PFAS emissions into the environment, i.e. water, soil, and air, and remediation of contaminated matter. In order to address the knowledge gap regarding air pollution by PFAS, this minireview summarizes the current corpus of work in the field and outlines how catalysis can contribute to PFAS abatement in the gas phase. Beyond a mere collection of state‐of‐the‐art knowledge, overarching challenges in catalytic PFAS removal are identified, spanning from fundamental organic and inorganic chemistry, i.e. C‐F‐bond activation, to heterogeneous catalysis, i.e. surface reactions at the gas‐solid interface, to reaction engineering, i.e. scaling relations and technical hurdles. In addition, the article introduces concepts and workflows that aim at providing guidance during the design of technological solutions for the efficient control of gaseous PFAS emissions.
Ring Expansion via Palladium‐Catalyzed Aryne Insertion into C−C Bonds of Benzocyclobutenones
Authors: Wagner Cole J. , Dong Guangbin
Published: February 2025

Insertion of arynes into cyclic C−C bonds provides a straightforward approach for ring expansion with an ortho‐phenylene moiety; however, the current scope of substrates has been restricted to enolizable ketones. Here we report the first example of aryne‐insertion into non‐enolizable ketones through Pd‐catalyzed C−C bond activation of benzocyclobutenones. 2‐Haloaryl boronates were employed as an unconventional aryne precursor. The reaction shows a wide substrate scope and high functional group tolerance. The mechanistic studies reveal an interesting dual role of the Pd catalyst for both aryne generation and C−C bond activation.
Crystal Structures and Corrosion Inhibitions of Three Cobalt Complexes of Terephthalate Anion and Bis‐Nitrogen Donor Ligands
Authors: Hammud Hassan H. , Alotaibi Nusaybah , Al Otaibi Nasreen , Bhattacharya Saurav , Kortz Ulrich , Ali Basem F. , Sarfaraz Sehrish , Ayub Khurshid
Published: February 2025

Three Co(II) complexes of terephthalate anion containing 1,10‐phenanthroline (phen) or 2,2′‐bipyridine (2,2′‐bipy), are prepared. The structures of dimeric [Co2(H2O)4(μ‐H2O)2(phen)2]4+·2(C8H4O42−), 1, and the polymeric [Co2(H2O)2(phen)2(μ‐C8H4O4)2]n, 2, complexes were confirmed by single crystal structure determination. Both complexes have CoN2O4 core in a distorted octahedral arrangement. Extensive hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking interactions consolidate 3‐D structures in 1 and 2. Complex 3, [Co(μ‐C8H4O4)(2,2′‐bipy)]n, was previously reported. It has CoN2O4 core in a distorted trigonal prismatic environment. Complexes 1, 2 and 3 exhibited good inhibition efficiencies for corrosion of carbon steel in 0.25‐M sulfuric acid solution. The order of corrosion inhibiting effect of the complexes was 2 (94.6%) > 1 (90.5%) > 3 (79.5%). The increase in Rp value and the decrease in Cdl were in parallel with the increase in the concentration of complexes. Tafel plot indicated that complex 1 behaved as a cathodic‐type corrosion inhibitor, whereas complexes 2 and 3 as anodic inhibitors for C‐steel in sulfuric acid medium. Weight loss measurement of steel samples in 1‐M HCl showed more inhibition of corrosion by complexes 1 and 2 than by complex 3. The adsorption mechanism of inhibitors on C‐steel followed Langmuir isotherm. The free energy changes indicated comprehensive physical and chemical adsorption for the three complexes on the surface of the C‐steel. SEM analysis of steel samples in 1‐M HCl proved the efficiency of complexes in retarding corrosion as the steel surface showed smoothness compared to the blank. Quantum chemical DFT study declared that the highest corrosion inhibition efficiency is observed for complex 2, which was strongly supported by the electrochemical anticorrosion studies. The results of the TGA analysis support the X‐ray crystal structures of the complexes.
Tailoring Light Weight Polypyrrole Aerogel Towards Improved Reflection Loss With High Efficiency and Wide Band Absorption
Authors: Yang Jianjian , Zhao Qizhi , Wang Kejun , Ye Zhengwei
Published: February 2025

Conducting polymer aerogels recently found usage in electromagnetic protection in terms of their conductivity, as well as a lightweight, anticorrosive, porous structure. In this paper, conducting polypyrrole aerogels were prepared by the oxidation of pyrrole with iron (III) chloride and efforts to directly vary the dielectric properties of aerogels have been made to promote efficient electromagnetic wave attenuation and widen the absorption bandwidth. It is demonstrated that the supercritical drying and protonation of polypyrrole aerogel contribute to broadening effective absorption bandwidth, covering 7.2 GHz with a thickness of 2.7 mm under a low filler loading of 7.5 wt%. A minimum reflection loss of −45 dB can be reached at the thickness of 2.5 mm for the binary polymer aerogel. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into available modulation strategies to leverage the potential electromagnetic absorption performance of conducting aerogel.
Fully distributed finite‐time consensus under state‐dependent communication network
Authors: Zhao Le , Liu Yungang , Li Fengzhong
Published: February 2025

Network topology is one of crucial components in multi‐agent systems, and it reflects the information interaction between agents. In many practical multi‐agent systems, for example, wireless sensor networks, the interactions between agents can be characterized by a state‐dependent graph, in which the weights vary with the relative agent states. How to achieve the finite‐time consensus under the state‐dependent graph is worth in‐depth research and especially integrates/reforms the relevant techniques. This paper addresses the finite‐time consensus for uncertain nonlinear multi‐agent systems under a state‐dependent graph. Typically, the systems allow severe uncertainties in control coefficients and nonlinearities, which, together with the state‐dependent graph, renders the protocol design of finite‐time consensus more difficult. To this end, a fully distributed protocol with dynamic high gain is designed. Notably, in the protocol, only one dynamic high gain, rather than multiple ones in related existing results, is sufficient to deal with the uncertainties and the unavailable global graph information. Especially, a condition which relies on the specified distance and the system initial states is presented to guarantee the connectivity of the graph. It turns out that by the protocol and condition, the finite‐time consensus is achieved. Simulation results are given to illustrate the validity of the proposed method.
Assessing Internal Consistency of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Gastrointestinal and Related Behaviors Inventory and the Frequency and Socio‐Emotional Correlates of Gastrointestinal Difficulties in Children With the Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Lestarevic Sanja , Mihailovich Marija , Vlaisavljevic Milica , Kalanj Marko , Grujicic Roberto , Maravic Vanja Mandic , Mitkovic‐Voncina Marija , Holingue Calliope , Pejovic‐Milovancevic Milica
Published: February 2025

Gastrointestinal (GI) difficulties are common in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, these difficulties can frequently remain unrecognized. Therefore, we aimed to translate a newly developed instrument, The Autism Spectrum Disorder Gastrointestinal and Related Behaviors Inventory in Children (ASD‐GIRBI), to assess its reliability and to explore the frequency of various gastrointestinal difficulties and related behaviors, as well as to explore the association of GI difficulties with the measures of social functioning and emotional and behavioral difficulties in children with ASD. A total of 98 children and adolescents (aged 4–18 [Mage = 10.67 ± 3.705], 82.7% male), previously diagnosed with ASD at the Institute of Mental Health in Belgrade, Serbia, took part in this research. Their parents filled out the following questionnaires: ASD‐GIRBI (an assessment of gastrointestinal and related symptoms), Stanford Social Dimensions Scale (SSDS) (a measure of social functioning) and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) (a measure of emotional and behavioral problems). Our results indicate that the ASD‐GIRBI is a reliable instrument for GI difficulties assessment (Cronbach's α = 0.841) with the total score successfully discriminating between the participants with and without a GI disorder diagnosis (p = 0.040). Any gastrointestinal symptom was present in 54.1% of the participants, most commonly flatulence, diarrhea, and constipation. The severity of gastrointestinal difficulties correlated to emotional problems (r = 0.261, p < 0.01), conduct problems (r = 0.219, p < 0.05), hyperactivity (r = 0.381, p < 0.01), peer problems (r = 0.266, p < 0.01), total difficulties (r = 0.454, p < 0.01) and total difficulties impact (r = 0.321, p < 0.01). Our data emphasize the potential importance of GI difficulties for various areas of functioning of individuals with ASD.
Unscaled Indices for Assessing Agreement of Functional Data
Authors: Choi Kaeum , Jang Jeong Hoon
Published: February 2025

A decision to adopt a new medical device requires a rigorous assessment of the reliability and reproducibility of its clinical measurements. In this paper, with the goal of establishing the validity and acceptability of modern high‐tech medical devices that generate functional data, we focus on the problem of assessing agreement of multiple functional data that are measured on the same subjects by different methods/technologies/raters. Specifically, we introduce a series of unscaled indices, total deviation index (TDI) and coverage probability (CP), that themselves are functions of time and can delineate the trends of intramethod, intermethod, and total (intra+inter) agreement of functional data across time in terms of the original measurement scale. We also develop scalar‐valued TDI and CP indices that summarize the degree of agreement over the entire domain based on the weighted average idea. We advocate an experimental design under which each of the two methods generates replicated functional data measurements for each subject, and express each index using a mean function and variance components of a bivariate multilevel functional linear mixed effects model. Such a formulation allows us to smoothly estimate the indices based on our bivariate multilevel functional principal component analysis approach that only requires eigenanalyses of univariate covariance functions for better efficiency and scalability. Comprehensive simulation studies are conducted to examine the finite‐sample properties of the estimators. The proposed method is applied to assess the reliability and reproducibility of renogram curves generated by diuresis renography, a high‐tech medical imaging device widely used to detect kidney obstruction.
Addressing selectivity challenges in seawater splitting: Catalyst design for oxygen and chlorine evolution reactions
Authors: Park Gisang , Kim Minjeong , Park Joon Yong , Nam Ki Min
Published: February 2025

Direct seawater splitting is a promising pathway for sustainable hydrogen (H2) production. However, significant challenges persist, particularly at the anode, where the high concentration of chloride ions induces competitive reactions between the chlorine evolution reaction (CER) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Although chlorine gas (Cl2) has a higher commercial value than oxygen (O2), selective oxygen generation is often more advantageous for large‐scale hydrogen production. Compared with freshwater splitting, seawater splitting introduces additional complexities, including material degradation caused by chlorine corrosion. Therefore, the development of robust electrocatalysts is essential to enhance long‐term system stability and overall efficiency, as well as to enable selective Cl2 or O2 production. These challenges make seawater splitting inherently more complex than freshwater splitting. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in electrocatalysts for seawater splitting, delving into the fundamental mechanisms governing anode reactions, particularly OER and CER. In addition, we critically examine strategies to control reaction selectivity, focusing on designing electrocatalysts that favor one reaction over the other, considering factors such as catalyst composition and structure. Finally, we outline significant opportunities, challenges, and design approaches to guide future research and technological advancements in seawater splitting.
Cognitive function, health literacy, and subsequent incidence of dementia among Japanese older adults
Authors: Makino Keitaro , Lee Sangyoon , Katayama Osamu , Tomida Kouki , Yamaguchi Ryo , Yamagiwa Daiki , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: February 2025

INTRODUCTION

Low cognitive function and poor health literacy are risk factors for dementia and have a bidirectional relationship. Here, we examined their individual and combined effects on the incidence of dementia.

METHODS

This longitudinal study included 2445 community‐dwelling Japanese older adults aged ≥ 65 years without dementia at baseline. We assessed participants’ cognitive function and health literacy at baseline using a multidomain neurocognitive test and the Communicative and Critical Health Literacy Scale, respectively. Participants were followed up monthly for new‐onset dementia over 5 years.

RESULTS

In Cox proportional hazards regression with normal cognition × high health literacy as the reference group, hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for normal cognition × low health literacy, low cognitive function × high health literacy, and low cognitive function × low health literacy were 1.50 (1.03–2.18), 2.56 (1.78–3.68), and 2.74 (1.87–4.01), respectively, after adjusting for covariates.

DISCUSSION

Low health literacy, as well as low cognitive function, may be crucial independent risk factors for dementia among community‐dwelling older adults.
Recent trends in biotechnological production, engineering, and applications of lysophospholipases
Authors: Nazir Arshia , Sajjad Muhammad
Published: February 2025

Oil degumming process involves the removal of gums, which is required to improve the physicochemical and storage properties of the vegetable oils. Degumming of oils can be carried out by using chemicals, membranes (polymeric, inorganic, and ceramic), or enzymes, for example, phospholipases. Phospholipases are enzymes of tremendous significance in the degumming process as they convert gums to fatty acids and lipophilic substances. They provide a cost‐effective and safe alternative to other degumming processes without affecting the oil yield. Lysophospholipases (LPLs) are highly valuable tools for degumming vegetable oils. LPLs can hydrolyze fatty acyl ester bonds of phosphatidylcholine at the sn‐1 and sn‐2 positions of glycerol moiety. In addition, they have the ability to catalyze hydrolysis lysophospholipids' ester bond either at sn‐1 or sn‐2 position. In this review, biotechnological production and biochemical characteristics of LPLs from three domains of life are highlighted. In comparison to bacterial and eukaryotic LPLs, archaeal LPLs were found to be active at high temperatures. Broad substrate specificity and thermostability of archaeal LPLs make them ideal candidates for the industrial degumming of oils. However, improvement of activity and substrate specificity of archaeal LPLs is required for enhancing their industrial utility. In the current review, various protein‐engineering approaches (directed evolution, rational design, site‐saturation mutagenesis, and fusion technology) as well as in silico tools have been discussed to increase the commercial significance of LPLs.
Towards Sustainable Chemistry: A Survey of Green Synthesis Methods for Pyridine Derivatives (A review)
Authors: Anjaneyulu Bendi , Chauhan Vishaka , Bathiwal Anirudh , Mittal Chinmay , Afshari Mozhgan
Published: February 2025

Pyridine is one of the significant six‐membered N‐heterocycles that has gained the attention of the scientific community because it is an integral part of various medicinally important natural products. There is a sizable and expanding market for pyridine derivatives due to their many pharmaceutical, medicinal, and agricultural uses. Numerous chemicals are being tested in clinical studies, in which pyridine analogs have occupied the top position. Pyridine scaffolds are also becoming more and more prominent for the use of modern medicine and are anticipated to have several uses in daily life. In this connection, various techniques have been developed to create novel pyridine derivatives, such as multicomponent one‐pot reactions, green catalysts environmentally friendly solvents, solvent‐free synthesizing, ultrasonic production, and microwave‐assisted synthesis. This study unifies the synthesis of various pyridine‐based molecular frameworks using green protocols and the results will support new ideas about creating biologically active compounds.
Guillain‐Barré Syndrome as the Initial Presentation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report
Authors: Sharma Rishi Raj , Ghimire Pukar , Devkota Nebula , Pant Prashant , Gyawali Sunil , Chhetri Suchit Thapa
Published: February 2025

Guillain‐Barré Syndrome (GBS) can be the initial presentation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Neurologists should consider SLE as a differential diagnosis in patients with limb tingling and weakness, adapting treatment accordingly for optimal management.
Isolation of a Rare Terminal Zr(IV) Peroxide and Insight into Polyoxovanadate Support Impact on Thioether Oxidation
Authors: Walls M. Rebecca A. , Clark Kinsey , Cooney Shannon E. , Brennessel William W. , Matson Ellen M.
Published: February 2025

Substitutional lability of the terminal methoxide ligand on a Zr(IV) substituted polyoxovanadate‐alkoxide (POV‐alkoxide) via protonolysis is presented. Addition of excess water or stoichiometric 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol results in the exchange of the terminal methoxide ligand for a hydroxide or 2,2,2‐trifluoroethoxide ligand, respectively. The lability of the terminal methoxide ligand at zirconium is leveraged to access a relatively stable terminal peroxide bound to a POV‐alkoxide supported Zr(IV) center, via addition of hydrogen peroxide adducts compatible with organic solvent. Isolation of the terminal peroxide complex allows for investigation into the impact of the sterically protected, electron‐rich POV‐alkoxide support on the activation of hydrogen peroxide at Zr(IV). While the isolated peroxide complex is inactive towards the oxidation of thioethers, the methoxy terminated Zr(IV) functions as a precatalyst for the reaction. Mechanistic analysis reveals electrophilic oxidation conditions with hydrogen peroxide substrates, with a nucleophilic parameter of 0.09 ± 0.02. In thioether oxidation reactions, selectivity for sulfoxide products (95‐99%) in acetonitrile is observed, suggesting the use of a reduced POV‐alkoxide prevents over‐oxidation of substrate.
The Comparison of Four Models of Community Psychiatry—A Systematic Review and Preliminary Meta‐Analysis of the ACT Model
Authors: Wilk Kacper , Kowalewska Ewelina , Jakubowska Małgorzata , Załuska Maria , Lew‐Starowicz Michał
Published: February 2025

Background

The aim of this systematic review and preliminary meta‐analysis is to summarize the effectiveness of selected models of community psychiatry: community mental health center, flexible assertive community treatment, community mental health team and assertive community treatment.

Methods

In order to determine the results of therapeutic interventions, comparison of symptom severity, level of functioning, use of institutional care, quality of life/well‐being/recovery and satisfaction at baseline and during follow‐up was conducted. Thirty‐seven quantitative studies were selected, grouped according to the study model and compared in terms of positive, neutral and negative impact on patients according to efficacy factors. Additionally, a preliminary random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed on 11 studies to investigate the effectiveness of assertive community treatment.

Results

Review shows the overall positive results of the selected models. The best documented effects were an increase in the level of functioning and a reduction in institutional care. The number of articles collected indicates that community mental health center and assertive community treatment are better researched than community mental health team and flexible assertive community treatment models. Meta‐analysis on assertive community treatment studies showed significant pooled effect sizes for domains of functioning, quality of life, hospitalizations and symptom severity.

Conclusions

The community mental health center and assertive community treatment are most likely to indicate efficiency and safety. The community mental health team and flexible assertive community treatment models should be explored in future studies. Results of the preliminary meta‐analysis provide further evidence for the effectiveness of assertive community treatment.
Cytotoxicity of Different Concentrations of Silver Nanoparticles and Calcium Hydroxide for MC3T3‐E1 Preosteoblast Cell Line
Authors: Afhkami Farzaneh , Ahmadi Paniz , Rostami Golriz
Published: February 2025

Introduction

With the advances in nanotechnology, nanomaterials are increasingly used in various fields due to their antibacterial properties; therefore, assessing the benefits and risks associated with the application of medicaments is imperative. This study evaluated the cytotoxicity of different concentrations of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and calcium hydroxide (CH) for MC3T3‐E1 preosteoblast cell line.

Material and Methods

The MC3T3‐E1 preosteoblast cells were exposed to triple antibiotic paste (TAP), AgNPs, CH, and different concentrations of AgNPs mixed with CH in 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 ratios for 24, 48, and 72 h. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay, and also the colony formation assay (CFA) was performed.

Results

At 24 h, the TAP and AgNPs groups showed the highest and the CH‐AgNPs/1:3 group had the lowest cell viability percentage in comparison to the other experimental groups. At 48 h, the TAP group showed the highest and the CH‐AgNPs/1:3 group showed the lowest cell viability. At 72 h, the AgNPs and CH groups showed the highest viability, while the lowest viability was noted in the CH‐AgNPs/1:3 and CH‐AgNPs/1:2 groups.

Conclusion

AgNPs showed the least cytotoxic effects in all periods. The addition of AgNPs to CH increases the cytotoxic effects of CH on experimental cells. After 48 and 72 h, CH‐AgNPs/1:1 showed significantly higher cell viability in comparison to higher concentrations.
Extracellular Vesicles Derived From Lipopolysaccharide‐Challenged Gingival Fibroblast Reveal Distinct miRNA Expression Patterns Associated With Reduced Cancer Survival
Authors: Diehl Daniel , Brauer Charlotte Lauren , Bachmann Hagen S. , Pembaur Daniel , Weil Patrick Philipp , Friedmann Anton
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Periodontitis is a prevalent inflammatory disease with established systemic implications. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key mediators of intercellular communication, potentially linking periodontitis to systemic diseases. However, the molecular cargo of EVs from inflamed periodontal cells remains poorly characterized. This study investigates the EV cargo of human gingival fibroblasts (hGF‐hTERT) following lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation and explores their potential role in cancer progression.

Materials and Methods

EVs were isolated from LPS‐treated and untreated fibroblasts via ultracentrifugation. Dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy characterized EV size and morphology. RNA sequencing identified differentially expressed miRNAs, validated by qPCR. Functional pathway enrichment and in‐silico analyses using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were performed to assess EV‐associated miRNA impact on tumorigenesis.

Results

EV size and concentration remained unchanged after LPS stimulation. However, LPS‐derived EVs exhibited a 2.6‐fold increase in miRNA content, with three significantly upregulated miRNAs: miR‐146a‐5p, miR‐486‐5p, and miR‐451a. Functional enrichment analysis revealed their involvement in inflammation, immune modulation, and cancer pathways. In vitro, LPS‐derived EVs significantly enhanced prostate cancer (LnCap) cell proliferation. TCGA analysis linked the upregulated miRNAs to poor cancer prognosis.

Conclusions

LPS stimulation alters the miRNA cargo of gingival fibroblast‐derived EVs, enhancing pathways associated with inflammation and cancer progression. These findings suggest a mechanistic role for periodontal EVs in systemic disease pathogenesis, warranting further investigation into their diagnostic and therapeutic potential.
Explicit CSR Communication Among Trade and Subcontractor SMEs in the Construction Industry
Authors: Le Lam Quang , Teo Pauline , Gajanayake Akvan
Published: February 2025

This study explores the current landscape of explicit Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) communication via webpages by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the construction industry to their stakeholders. A qualitative content analysis, grounded in stakeholder theory, was conducted on the webpages of 67 trade and subcontractor SMEs in the construction industry, specifically in the state of Victoria, Australia. It is found that Environmental CSR practices are the most frequently disclosed, particularly regarding eco‐friendly products and packaging. Employee‐related CSR practices are second, focusing on occupational health and safety. However, disclosures on Society/Community‐ and Supplier/Partner‐related CSR practices are limited. SMEs comprise a large proportion of the construction industry, face resource constraints but are crucial for local economies and sustainable practices. Unlike most of the previous studies which focus on large enterprises, this research examines the CSR practices of construction SMEs through their webpages, offering insights into their role in socially responsible construction and the need to guide SMEs for effective communication of CSR initiatives. The focus is on the webpages of trade and subcontractor SMEs in the construction industry. The findings guide SME owner‐managers in improving CSR disclosure, emphasising the need for tailored communication strategies.
Optimal Operation of Port PV Systems Based on Improved Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Tang Ruoli , Tian Chenchen , Li Xin , Dong Zhengcheng , Lai Jingang , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2025

Introducing new energy sources to create green ports holds great importance in the context of global energy conservation. As an important source of new energy power generation, the optimal operation of photovoltaic (PV) power generation has always been the focus of research. Port PV systems are prone to partial shading due to variable weather conditions and building occlusion. This phenomenon results in PV arrays with multipeaked power curves, thereby increasing the difficulty of maximum power point tracking (MPPT). Moreover, traditional reinforcement learning (RL) is incapable of addressing this problem effectively. Therefore, this paper proposes an improved RL‐MPPT algorithm. To enhance the convergence speed of this method, a Q‐table matching mechanism based on a back propagation neural network (BPNN) is introduced. Additionally, to mitigate the problem of the PV panel aging and the lack of updates in the Q‐table knowledge base, a Q‐table knowledge base time window update mechanism is implemented. Finally, MPPT method is verified by a comprehensive set of simulation experiments. The experimental results indicate that the Q‐table matching mechanism based on BPNN can effectively improve the convergence speed of the RL algorithm, and can effectively overcome the multi‐peak power characteristics in the MPPT control process of the port PV system in complex environmental scenarios, with good control accuracy, dynamic characteristics and robustness.
A Decentralized Optimal Economic Dispatch Control of Cascaded‐Type DC Microgrids With Capacity and Load Voltage Constraints
Authors: Li Lang , Hou Xiaochao , Liao Yuefeng
Published: February 2025

Maintaining a high‐quality power supply and cost‐effective operation is significant for microgrids. This paper investigates the optimization problem of minimizing the total generation costs (TGCs) of cascaded‐type DC microgrids, subject to capacity and load voltage. To solve this problem, a novel decentralized optimal economic dispatch control strategy is proposed; it has an economic impact on power dispatch in a communication‐free manner. That is, TGCs of cascaded‐type DC microgrids are minimized. The method allows each distributed generator (DG) to calculate its output voltage reference autonomously based on the local measurement. Further, the proposed strategy operates in a completely decentralized manner, which can improve the system's reliability and is easy to implement. Compared with existing methods, the proposed strategy ensures that all DGs operate within their capacity constraints to prevent overload. Meanwhile, the load voltage can remain nearly constant. Thus, the desired high‐quality load voltage is achieved. In terms of the proposed method, the minimization of TGC operation is obtained, and the optimal economic dispatch control is achieved. The stability of the proposed controller for cascaded‐type DC microgrids is analyzed. Finally, simulations and experiments have been executed to showcase the efficacy of the proposed scheme.
Single‐cell transcriptomic atlas of different endometriosis indicating that an interaction between endometriosis‐associated mesothelial cells (EAMCs) and ectopic stromal cells may influence progesterone resistance
Authors: Hou Shengdi , Zhang Jing , Zhang Zhiqiang , Qu Hong , Li Shuhong , Jiang Ying , Liu Chongdong
Published: February 2025

Background

Endometriosis is a hormone‐dependent disease, which can usually be divided into peritoneal endometriosis (PEM), deep‐infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) and ovarian endometriosis (OEM). Although the three pathologic types are essentially the same disease, they differ in pathological manifestations, molecular features, pain symptoms and hormonal responsiveness. However, there is limited literature focusing on the differences among these types. In this study, we employed single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) to profile the transcriptome of each type using surgical biopsy samples obtained from six patients. We aimed to explore and elucidate the variations among these different types of endometriosis.

Results

We identified five major cell types and 44 subpopulations, including the presence of mesothelial cells in all pathological types, including OEM. Furthermore, we characterised the variations in cell types across different pathological types by employing enrichment analysis to assess functions and pathways. Notably, our findings reveal distinct levels of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) processes experienced by mesothelial cells within the microenvironment of endometriotic lesions. Through ligand–receptor analysis and referencing relevant literature, we propose that mesothelial cells exert an influence on progesterone resistance in stromal cells through intercellular communication mediated by the FN1‐AKT pathway.

Conclusions

Our study comprehensively characterises the heterogeneity of the different pathologic types of endometriosis and offers valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms contributing to variations in progesterone resistance across the three subtypes.

Key points

Single‐cell RNA (ScRNA) atlas across types of endometriosis is established.

Mesothelial cells are founded in ovarian endometriosis.

Endometriosis‐associated mesothelial cells (EAMCs) experience various level of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in different subtypes.

EAMCs may exert an influence on progesterone resistance in stromal cells through intercellular communication mediated by the FN1‐AKT pathway.