bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of an Electron Emitter via Seamless Shaping of a 3D‐Printed Ceramic Cone With Carbon Nanotube Mesh Film as an Alternative to Polymer‐Based Materials
Authors: Laszczyk Karolina U. , Krol Konrad , Bialy Mateusz , Nowak Damian
Published: January 2025

This paper focuses on electron emitters formed using seamless hybrid shaping of the ceramic 3D‐printed cone (as a supporting structure) and a conductive emitting film obtained from the suspension of dispersed carbon nanotubes (CNT). The ceramic cone is post‐process fired to achieve a pure ceramic cone that is coated with emitting CNT mesh film. Meanwhile, a cone‐based polymer emitter is evaluated. The resulting emitter exhibits non‐linear current‐voltage characteristics reaching maximum 0.6 mA anode current with a turn‐on‐field voltage below 1 Vµm−1 and minimal current fluctuation over time. Additionally, the ceramic emitter arrays fabricated using the same technique are demonstrated: if the tip angle and shape in a microscale have tunability in emission is confirmed, meanwhile, the type of volatile gases released during the emission is confirmed using a residual gas analyzer (RGA). The motivation and challenge are to use 3D printing to enable freedom in designing and forming the emitter tip shape and angle and to present the perspective and challenges to use the 3D printing technique combined with the seamless shaping for the CNT mesh film to tune the emitter performance. Especially as this technique and 3D‐printed materials have not been previously employed for electron emitters.
A Simple Micro/Nano‐Porous Structure With Day‐Night Dynamic Thermal Control and High Thermal Conductivity for Enhanced Thermoelectric Power Generation
Authors: Lv Song , Deng Jingcai , Feng Mengqi , Zhang Mingming , Guo Ying , Wu Yangyang , Shi Guoqing
Published: January 2025

The main challenge of an all‐weather power generation system that combines radiative cooling and thermoelectricity is to dynamically regulate the temperature sources at both ends of the thermoelectric device. Previous studies have used stacked and flipped structures, thermochromic materials, and other methods. However, the above methods have complex structures, low thermal conductivity efficiency, and difficult‐to‐prepare materials. Therefore, in this paper, a porous structure of carbon nanomaterials with simple preparation, dynamically adjustable heat source during day and night, and high thermal conductivity in combination with thermoelectric devices with ultra‐high electrical efficiency is proposed. The structure has a solar spectrum absorption of 98.6%. Graphene film is used as a substrate material to enhance the longitudinal thermal conductivity. Experiments showed that the maximum voltage during day and night can reach 847 and 106 mV, the maximum temperature difference is 12.63 and 1.42 °C, and the maximum power density is 2112.96 mW m−2 when combined with thermoelectric devices. Simulation models are used to analyze the environmental sensitivity of power generation units and to predict their power generation potential. This work provides superior photothermal/radiative cooling structures combined with thermoelectric elements for efficient all‐weather energy conversion and power output.
Structural Insights into the Substrate Recognition of Ginsenoside Glycosyltransferase Pq3‐O‐UGT2
Authors: Ji Qiushuang , Liu Yirong , Zhang Huanyu , Gao Yan , Ding Yixin , Ding Yuanyuan , Xie Jing , Zhang Jianyu , Jin Xinghua , Lai Bin , Chen Cheng , Wang Juan , Gao Wenyuan , Mei Kunrong
Published: January 2025

Ginsenosides are a group of tetracyclic triterpenoids with promising health benefits, consisting of ginseng aglycone attached to various glycans. Pq3‐O‐UGT2, an important UDP‐dependent glycosyltransferase (UGT), catalyzes the production of Ginsenoside Rg3 and Rd by extending the glycan chain of Ginsenoside Rh2 and F2, respectively, with higher selectivity for F2. However, the mechanism underlying its substrate recognition remains unclear. In this study, the crystal structures of Pq3‐O‐UGT2 in complex with its acceptor substrates are solved. The structures revealed a Nα5‐oriented acceptor binding pocket in Pq3‐O‐UGT2, shaped by the unique conformation of the Nα5‐Nα6 linker. Hydrophobic interactions play a pivotal role in the recognition of both Rh2 and F2, while hydrogen bonds specifically aid in F2 recognition due to its additional glucose moiety. The hydrophobic nature of the acceptor binding pocket also enables Pq3‐O‐UGT2 to recognize flavonoids. Overall, this study provides novel insights into the substrate recognition mechanisms of ginsenoside UGTs, advancing the understanding of their function and specificity.
Modeling Sporadic Progressive Supranuclear Palsy in 3D Midbrain Organoids: Recapitulating Disease Features for In Vitro Diagnosis and Drug Discovery
Authors: Parrotta Elvira Immacolata , Lucchino Valeria , Zannino Clara , Valente Desirèe , Scalise Stefania , Bressan Davide , Benedetto Giorgia Lucia , Iazzetta Maria Roberta , Talarico Mariagrazia , Gagliardi Monica , Conforti Francesco , Di Agostino Silvia , Fiorenzano Alessandro , Quattrone Aldo , Cuda Giovanni , Quattrone Andrea
Published: January 2025

Objective

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a severe neurodegenerative disease characterized by tangles of hyperphosphorylated tau protein and tufted astrocytes. Developing treatments for PSP is challenging due to the lack of disease models reproducing its key pathological features. This study aimed to model sporadic PSP‐Richardson's syndrome (PSP‐RS) using multi‐donor midbrain organoids (MOs).

Methods

The MOs were generated by pooling induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from 4 patients with sporadic probable PSP‐RS and compared them with MOs from 3 healthy control (HC) subjects. We performed comprehensive analyses of MOs over 120 days to assess neuronal death, reactive gliosis, and the accumulation of 4R‐tau and hyperphosphorylated tau forms (pThr231, pSer396, pThr181, and pSer202/pThr205 [AT8]) using immunofluorescence microscopy and Western blot. On day 90, immunohistochemical analysis using pSer396 and AT8 antibodies was conducted to assess disease pathology.

Results

PSP‐derived MOs showed progressive size reduction compared with HC‐derived MOs, linked to upregulated apoptosis‐related mRNA markers. Dopaminergic neuron degeneration was marked by decreased tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and increased neurofilament light chain (NfL). Immunofluorescence and Western blot revealed accumulation of all investigated tau forms with a peak at 90 days, along with a significant rise in GFAP‐positive cells in PSP‐derived MOs. Immunochemistry confirmed typical PSP histological alterations, such as neurofibrillary tangles and tufted‐shaped astrocytes, absent in HC‐derived organoids.

Interpretation

We developed a robust in vitro PSP model reproducing the key molecular and histologic features of the disease. This result holds promise for advancing basic and clinical research in PSP, paving the way for in vitro molecular diagnosis and identification of novel therapeutic targets. ANN NEUROL 2025
Room Temperature Ethene to Propene (ETP) Tandem Catalysis using Single Crystalline Solid‐State Molecular Pre‐Catalysts
Authors: Altus Kristof M. , Shi Yiping , Probst Patrick , Heaton Jack H. , Gyton Matthew R. , Lari Leonardo , Buchmeiser Michael R. , Dyer Philip W. , Weller Andrew S.
Published: January 2025

A tandem catalytic ensemble of solid‐state molecular organometallic (SMOM) crystalline pre‐catalysts are deployed under batch or flow conditions for the ethene to propene process (ETP). These catalysts operate at ambient temperature and low pressure, via sequential ethene dimerization, butenes isomerization and cross‐metathesis. Under flow conditions the on‐stream ethene conversion (55 %), initial propene selectivity (92 %), stability (71 % selectivity after 7 h) and low temperature/pressures are competitive with the best‐in‐class heterogeneous systems, marking a new, in crystallo, approach to ETP.
Unprecedented High Activity of One‐Dimensional Nickel‐Based Coordination Polymer for Ethylene Dimerization
Authors: Ning Yao , Li Changlian , Zhao Bo , Min Wenpeng , Li Xinyuan , Zhang Ying
Published: January 2025

Three kinds of one‐dimensional nickel‐based coordination polymers (1D‐S‐Ni, 1D‐D‐Ni, and 1D‐M‐Ni) with different coordination environments and topological structures were synthesized and evacuated as heterogeneous catalysts for liquid phase slurry reaction of ethylene dimerization. Their crystal structures, morphology, chemical groups, and thermal properties were characterized by PXRD, SEM, FT‐IR, TGA, ICP‐AES, and EA, respectively. The catalytic performance of these catalysts was examined under various reaction conditions, including the amount of cocatalyst, reaction temperature, and reaction pressure. These catalysts showed high catalytic activity up to 105–106 g/(molNi·h) and high selectivity of butene (C4) over 78% at room temperature and 10 atm pressure. Especially the catalytic activity of 1D‐D‐Ni was up to 17.1 × 105 g/(molNi·h), exceeding that of most Ni‐based heterogeneous catalysts and reaching the level of nickel‐based homogeneous catalysts. The stability and cyclic performance of 1D‐D‐Ni was also assessed. It was observed that the catalyst did not undergo decomposition during the reaction and maintained a high activity level of 12.0 × 105 g/(molNi·h) even after three cycles. 1D‐D‐Ni has SBU similar to homogeneous nickel‐based complex catalyst for ethylene dimerization, indicating that reasonable design of metal nodes is an effective way to synthesize heterogeneous ethylene dimerization catalysts with high catalytic performance.
A Comparative Study of Time to Initiate Chest Compressions and Chest Compression Fraction in the Supine and Prone Positions Using Simulation
Authors: Smith Zachary , Sessler Darren , Oermann Marilyn H. , Simmons Virginia C.
Published: January 2025

Repositioning a patient from the prone to supine position can delay the initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Investigators used high‐fidelity simulation to assess the time to initiate chest compressions and the time during which compressions did not occur for supine and prone CPR. Sixty participants completed a knowledge assessment before and after attending an education session and completing two simulations (ie, supine, prone). Mean (SD) knowledge scores improved from 48.7% (17.4%) to 85.3% (14.7%) after the education and simulations (t59 = −12.32, P < .001). Prone CPR resulted in a significant reduction in the time to initiate chest compressions (13 seconds, prone; 314 seconds, supine; t11 = −31.79; P < .001) and a higher chest compression fraction (84% prone versus 42% supine; t11 = 19.1, P < .001). When compared to repositioning to supine, prone CPR decreased chest compression interruptions, and may therefore be beneficial during the perioperative period.
Does the Digital Economy Promote Renewable Energy?—Evidence From a Cross‐National Sample
Authors: liu Lin , Liu Jing , Zhang Jianing , Zhao Yiyang
Published: January 2025

Renewable energy is one of the key factors in mitigating climate change and achieving sustainable development. With digital technology at its core, the digital economy has gradually become a new driving force for renewable energy development. However, few studies have examined the impact of the digital economy on renewable energy from a global perspective and explored the transmission mechanisms. Based on the cross‐country data of 68 countries (regions) from 2013 to 2021, this paper adopts a panel model to study the impacts of the digital economy on renewable energy. The results show that (1) digital economy has a positive impact on renewable energy; (2) the impact of digital economy on renewable energy is asymmetric and heterogeneous; (3) the impact of digital economy on renewable energy development has obvious threshold characteristics; (4) digital economy indirectly affects renewable energy through technological innovation and financial development. The research in this paper provides a theoretical basis for promoting renewable energy development and a reference and guidance for countries to realize sustainable development in the context of the digital economy.
Saccharinate‐Based Ionic Liquids and Lithium Battery Electrolytes
Authors: Ahmed Mukhtiar , Kushwaha Ashok , Filippov Andrei , Johansson Patrik , Ullah Shah Faiz
Published: January 2025

Fluorine‐free ionic liquids (ILs) and electrolytes based on ether‐functionalized pyrrolidinium or imidazolinium cations coupled with a “greener”, non‐basic, and hydrolytically stable saccharinate (Sac) anion, are herein presented with their thermal, transport and electrochemical properties. The thermal stability, glass transition temperature, and electrochemical stability of the imidazolinium based ILs surpasses the pyrrolidinium IL, while the latter offer better (ion) transport properties. Ether‐functionalization of the IL cation improves the transport properties with negligible effects on the thermal and electrochemical stabilities. The Li+ conducting electrolytes – created by adding 10 mol % of lithium saccharinate (LiSac) to the neat (BMMIm)(Sac) and (C201MMIm)(Sac) ILs show an as low initial overpotential as ±0.05 V and outstanding Li stripping/plating performance over 100 hours at 60 °C for the latter, but a very large polarization interfacial resistance, 4730 Ω cm2, impeding the kinetics of stripping/plating, even at these elevated temperatures for the former. Hence the rather modest modification has an enormous impact in practice.
ESG‐Firm Performance Nexus: Evidence From an Emerging Economy
Authors: Biju Ajithakumari Vijayappan Nair , Geetha Sreelekshmi , Prasad Salu , Sasidharan Aghila , Jayachandran Ambili
Published: January 2025

Firms worldwide are strengthening environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, indicating a bidirectional association between financial and non‐financial performance. Understanding the ambiguity around the predictors of the firm's ESG performance, we attempt to reappraise the ESG‐ firm performance (FP) linkage using the firms indexed in the NIFTY 100 ESG index spanning 2014 to 2023. Our findings highlight that market forces significantly influence firms' ESG performance; however, in emerging economies, the direct relationship between ESG and FP appears to be insignificant. Surprisingly, corporate governance positively moderates the ESG–FP linkage, strengthening this association. Among the four proxies for market forces, the Volatility Index (VIX) shows a significant impact, where higher market volatility is associated with improved ESG performance, and lower volatility corresponds to weaker ESG performance. Conversely, the World Uncertainty Index (WUI) exhibits a negative significance, suggesting that higher WUI adversely affects the ESG performance of firms in emerging economies, while lower WUI has a favourable effect. Green bonds have a positive and significant effect on overall ESG performance and on social and governance dimensions; however, their influence on environmental performance is not significant, raising concerns about potential greenwashing trends. Strikingly, our findings indicate that emerging economy firms do not consider systematic risk, suggesting that investors' risk perceptions remain unchanged regardless of whether firms over‐ or under‐invest in ESG initiatives. Our research calls for greater attention to policymakers by providing accurate reasonings for the ESG performance of emerging economy firms.
Exploring the Impact of Supply Chain Digital Transformation on Supply Chain Performance: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Rana Jeetu , Daultani Yash , Goswami Mohit , Kumar Sushil
Published: January 2025

In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and global supply chain complexities, Supply Chain Digital Transformation (SCDT) has emerged as a critical enabler of superior Supply Chain Performance (SCP). Grounded in Systems Theory and Digital Empowerment Theory, this study explores the mechanisms through which SCDT enhances SCP, emphasizing the mediating roles of Supply Chain Integration (SCI), Agility (SCA), and Resilience (SCRes). Employing a mixed‐methods approach, the research integrates insights from semi‐structured interviews with a survey‐based methodology, validated through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS‐SEM). The findings reveal that SCDT significantly enhances SCP, both directly and indirectly, by fostering integration, agility, and resilience within supply chains. The study also points to many novel findings, for instance, advanced digital adopters and larger firms experience more pronounced impacts of SCDT on SCP than recent adopters and smaller counterparts. This research offers theoretical contributions by integrating dual theoretical perspectives to provide a holistic understanding of SCDT's impact on SCP and practical implications for organizations operating in dynamic and uncertain environments. By situating its findings within the context of Indian manufacturing, the study extends the discourse on digital transformation to emerging economies, highlighting the transformative potential of digital technologies in building resilient and agile supply chains.
Horizontal platelet‐rich fibrin versus advanced platelet‐rich fibrin plus in gingival recession management
Authors: Sridhar Kavitha , Tadepalli Anupama , Parthasarathy Harinath , Cholan Priyanka K. , Ramachandran Lakshmi
Published: January 2025

Background

Newer generation platelet concentrates, such as advanced platelet‐rich fibrin plus (A‐PRF+) obtained following low‐speed centrifugation concept and horizontal platelet‐rich fibrin (H‐PRF) obtained from swing out and bucket system, showed increased platelet entrapment and growth factor release in the in‐vitro studies. This prospective study aimed to evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes of A‐PRF+ and H‐PRF membranes in the treatment of gingival recession defects. The objectives of this study were to compare the changes in the recession height (RH) and the mean root coverage percentage (MRC%) between and within the research groups.

Methods

Forty‐four systemically healthy patients diagnosed with 84 Cairo's RT 1 and RT 2 gingival recession defects in the maxillary anterior and premolars were randomly treated with a combination of the coronally advanced flap (CAF) and A‐PRF+ membrane (n = 22 subjects) or H‐PRF membrane (n = 22 subjects). Patients were reviewed at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Parameters including RH, MRC%, complete root coverage (CRC), gingival thickness, keratinized tissue height, and root coverage esthetic scores were documented.

Results

Both treatments resulted in a significant reduction in RH (p < 0.001). The CAF + A‐PRF+ group demonstrated a reduction in RH from 2.47 ± 1.00 mm to 0.59 ± 0.52 mm and the MRC% was 76.33 ± 22.54%, at 6 months. In the CAF+H‐PRF group, the mean RH decreased from 2.43 ± 1.01 mm to 0.38 ± 0.59 mm and the MRC% was 85.51 ± 19.87%. Three‐ and six‐month intergroup analysis revealed statistically insignificant differences in the observed clinical parameters between the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The study found that both CAF + H‐PRF and CAF + A‐PRF+ protocols resulted in similar clinical outcomes while treating maxillary gingival recession defects.

Plain language summary

Numerous modifications have been proposed to improve the growth factor content in the platelet concentrates and thereby therapeutic potential. This study compared platelet‐derived membranes obtained by two different spin protocols in the treatment of gum recession. Forty‐four patients were treated with either platelet‐derived membrane obtained by horizontal spin protocol (test group) or low‐speed spin concept (control group). Both treatment methods resulted in satisfactory healing. At the end of 6 months, no differences were noted with regard to the changes in clinical measurements and root coverage percentage indicating similar clinical efficacy of both preparatory techniques.
Visual Expansion and Real‐Time Calibration for Pan‐Tilt‐Zoom Cameras Assisted by Panoramic Models
Authors: Cai Liangliang , Zhou Zhong
Published: January 2025

Pan‐tilt‐zoom (PTZ) cameras, which dynamically adjust their field of view (FOV), are pervasive in large‐scale scenes, such as train stations, squares, and airports. In real scenarios, PTZ cameras are required to quickly judge their directions using contextual clues from the surrounding environment. To achieve this goal, some research projects camera videos into three‐dimensional (3D) models or panoramas and allows operators to establish spatial relationships. However, these works face several challenges in terms of real‐time processing, localization accuracy, and realistic reference. To address this problem, a visual expansion and real‐time calibration for PTZ cameras assisted by panoramic models is proposed. The calibration method consists of three parts: Providing a real environment background by building a panoramic model, meeting the needs of real‐time processing by establishing a PTZ camera motion estimation model and achieving high‐precision alignment between PTZ images and panoramic models using only two feature point pairs. Our methods were validated using both the public and our Scene dataset. The experimental results indicate that our method outperforms other state‐of‐the‐art methods in terms of real‐time processing, accuracy, and robustness.
Near‐Neutral pH Sensing by Azoheteroarene Dyes
Authors: Hashim P. K. , Ahmad Shifa , Madappuram Cheruthu Nusaiba , Sahu Saugata , Tamaoki Nobuyuki
Published: January 2025

We serendipitously discovered a novel series of azoheteroarene dyes capable of detecting pH variations in near‐neutral solutions. These dyes feature thiazole, thiadiazole, triazole, pyrazole, or benzothiazole heteroaryls linked to hydroxyphenyl azo groups. They exhibit distinctive light absorption properties in aqueous solutions and show notable color changes in a narrow pH range, visible to the naked eye. Both experimental data and quantum calculations suggest a plausible mechanism for their function as pH indicators. Additionally, these azoheteroarene dyes effectively monitor pH in complex environments, and we show their use for detecting the pH change of culture medium containing growing cancer cells.
Self‐Assembly of Antisense DNA‐Camptothecin Amphiphile into Glutathione‐Responsive Nanoparticles for Combination Cancer Therapy
Authors: Krishna Anusree , Babulal Anupama , Sajeev Mareena , Ravi Nidhin , Raj Gowtham , Antony Anitta , Dev Narendradev Nikhil , Murty Srinivasula Srinivasa , Varghese Reji
Published: January 2025

Recent years have witnessed the rapid growth of combination therapy for the treatment of cancer. Chemo and antisense DNA therapies are two clinically proven and efficient treatment modalities for cancer. However, direct delivery of both chemo and antisense oligonucleotides into the cancerous cells is challenging and hence there is a high demand for the development of new strategies that permit the direct delivery of chemo and antisense therapeutic agents in a targeted fashion. Herein, we show a supramolecular approach for the direct delivery of hydrophobic chemo drug and cell impermeable antisense oligonucleotide into a cancer cell in a targeted fashion. Synthesis of an amphiphile (DNA1‐CPT) consist of hydrophobic camptothecin (CPT) conjugated to an antisense oligonucleotide (DNA1) via glutathione‐responsive disulphide linker is reported. Self‐assembly of DNA1‐CPT results in the formation of GSH‐responsive NPs with CPT as the hydrophobic core and DNA1 as the hydrophilic shell. Self‐assembled NPs exhibits excellent cellular internalization via endocytosis pathway, and the high concentration of glutathione inside the cancer cells causes the cleavage of disulphide bond of the NPs and trigger the simultaneous release of CPT and DNA1a. Enhanced cytotoxicity is observed for the NPs due to the synergetic combination of chemo and antisense DNA therapies.
Low‐energy elastic scattering of electrons from 2H‐pyran and 4H‐pyranwith time delay analysis of resonances
Authors: Sharma Snigdha , Gupta Dhanoj
Published: January 2025

Elucidating the significance of low‐energy electrons in the rupture of DNA/RNA and the process involved in it is
crucial in the field of radiation therapy. Capturing of the incident electron in one of the empty molecular orbitals and
the formation of a temporary negative ion (TNI) is considered to be a stepping stone towards the lesion of DNA/RNA.
This TNI formation manifests itself as a resonance peak in the cross‐sections determined for the electron‐molecule
interaction. In the present work, we have reported the integral (ICS), differential (DCS), and momentum transfer
(MTCS) cross‐sections for the elastic scattering of low‐energy electrons from the isomers, 2H‐pyran and 4H‐pyran
(C5H6O), which are analogues of the sugar backbone of DNA. The single‐center expansion method has been employed
for the scattering calculations. Further, we have used the time delay approach to identify and analyze the resonance
peaks. Our results for the ICS and DCS compare well with the only data available in the literature. MTCS data for
2H‐pyran and 4H‐pyran have been reported for the first time. Moreover, we have also identified an extra peak for each
molecule, from time delay analysis, which might be a potential resonance.
Half‐Sandwich Organometallic Ir(III) and Ru(II) Compounds and their Interactions with Biomolecules
Authors: Kozieł Sandra , Wojtala Daria , Szmitka Magdalena , Lesiów Monika , Ziółkowska Aleksandra , Sawka Jacek , Del Carpio Edgar , Crans Debbie C. , Komarnicka Urszula K.
Published: January 2025

This review highlights how a Ir(III) and Ru(II) coordination complexes can change theirs cytotoxic activity by interacting with a biomolecules such as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), human albumins (HSA), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), and glutathione (GSH). We have selected biomolecules (DNA, NADH, GSH, and HSA) based on their significant biological roles and importance in cellular processes. Moreover, this review may provide useful information for the development of new half‐sandwich Ir(III) and Ru(II) complexes with desired properties and relevant biological activities. Additionally, the examples discussed here may help us better understand what happens to a metal‐based drug once it enters the body.
Exploring Supramolecular Frustrated Lewis Pairs
Authors: Hawkins Paige R. , Hawes Chris S. , Matthews Peter D.
Published: January 2025

Frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) have rapidly become one of the key metal‐free catalysts for a variety of chemical transformations. Embedding these catalysts within a supramolecular assembly can offer improvements to factors such as recyclability and selectivity. In this review we discuss advances in this area, covering key supramolecular assemblies such as metal organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), polymers and macrocycles.
Highly Efficient Recovery of Cobalt‐Ion Containing Waste Deep Eutectic Electrolytes: A Sustainable Solvent Extraction Approach
Authors: Wang Jie , Wang Chaowu , Zhang Qibo
Published: January 2025

Efficient recovery of metals from secondary resources is essential to address resource shortages and environmental crises. The development of a cheap, environmentally friendly, and highly efficient recovery pathway is essential for resource retrieval. In this study, we propose a high‐efficiency extraction approach utilizing bis(2,4,4‐trimethylpentyl) phosphonic acid (Cyanex272) to recover cobalt from waste choline chloride/ethylene glycol (Ethaline) electrolyte containing Co(II) ions. By adjusting the water content of the system to modify the ligand of Co(II) ions, combined with pH adjustment, we achieved an extraction efficiency exceeding 99.9 % for Co(II) ions. Subsequently, oxalic acid (OA) was added as a stripping agent to achieve a recovery efficiency of over 99.4 % for cobalt. The extractant can be recycled more than 15 times after stripping. Impressively, more than 98.3 % of the water‐diluted Ethaline extraction raffinate was recovered through reduced pressure distillation while maintaining the structure of recovered Ethaline unchanged. This work provides an economical, efficient, and sustainable pathway for treating waste Ethaline electrolyte‐containing metal ions.
Anionic Ring‐Opening Polymerization of 2‐oxabicyclo[2.1.1]hexan‐3‐One: Manipulating Topology and Conformation for Circular Polymer Design
Authors: Weng Chaoqun , Tan Yanghaoyu , Tang Xiaoyan
Published: January 2025

Polyesters featuring a linear topology and in‐chain 1,3‐cyclobutane rings, synthesized via ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of 2‐oxabicyclo[2.1.1]hexan‐3‐one (4R‐BL, R=Bu, Ph) through a coordination‐insertion mechanism, display excellent thermal and hydrolytic stability, making them promising candidates for sustainable circular materials. However, achieving diverse topological and stereochemical structures remains challenging. Herein, we demonstrate precise control over linear and cyclic topologies of these polyesters and the conformation of in‐chain cyclobutane rings through anionic ROP of 4R‐BL with appropriate catalysts or initiators. Using tert‐butoxide (tBuOK) as the catalyst, low loading (0.05–0.1 mol %) produces high‐molar‐mass cyclic polyester P(4R‐BL) (up to 571 kg/mol), whereas high loading (2 mol %) promotes transesterification and isomerization, ultimately yielding cyclic oligomers. Remarkably, the tetramer (4Ph‐BL)4 undergoes conformational turnover of the puckered cyclobutane rings and can be repolymerized into polymer P(4Ph‐BL). This establishes a “monomer ⇄ polymer ⇄ tetramer” dual closed‐loop life cycle, enhancing the potential for a circular material economy.
Antileishmanial and Antitrypanosomal Trends of Synthetic Tetralone Derivatives
Authors: Alkhaldi Abdulsalam A. M. , de Koning Harry P. , Bukhari Syed Nasir Abbas
Published: January 2025

Leishmaniasis and trypanosomiasis are parasitic diseases that are closely linked to poverty, pose significant local burdens, and are common in tropical and subtropical regions. Various synthetic tetralone derivatives were studied as potential scaffolds for antileishmanial and antitrypanosomal activities. The compounds were studied for their effectiveness against multiple kinetoplastid protozoan pathogens: Leishmania major, Leishmania mexicana, and bloodstream trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma brucei brucei. Two different strains of T. b. brucei were used. The first strain was the wild‐type Trypanosoma brucei (s427‐WT), and the second strain was the multidrug resistant (MDR) strain B48, which was produced by deleting the TbAT1 gene from s427WT and subsequent adaptation to high levels of resistance to diamidines and organo‐arsenical drugs. Compounds 4c, 7c, 9b, and 11b showed activity against two strains of Trypanosoma and two different Leishmania species, establishing them as versatile leads with broad anti‐kinetoplastid activity. Compound 4c, a tetralone derivative with a bromo‐containing trimethoxybenzylidene moiety and methyl‐substituted cyclohexanone ring, was identified as the most potent inhibitor for both T. b. brucei strains, with EC50 values of 0.19 and 0.22 µM for WT and B48, respectively, showing the absence of cross‐resistance with the diamidine and arsenical trypanocide classes. In addition, compound 4c exhibited more potency than both controls, eflornithine and pentamidine, against the MDR strain. We conclude that tetralone derivates could be a valuable starting point for the discovery of new antiparasitic drugs.
Reopenable clip over‐the‐line method in endoscopic full‐thickness resection of gastric submucosal tumors: A historical control study
Authors: Shichijo Satoki , Uedo Noriya , Mori Hitoshi , Kawakami Yushi , Tani Yasuhiro , Iwagami Hiroyoshi , Kato Minoru , Yoshii Shunsuke , Kanesaka Takashi , Higashino Koji , Michida Tomoki , Ishihara Ryu , Shinno Naoki , Hara Hisashi , Yanagimoto Yoshitomo , Yamamoto Kazuyoshi , Omori Takeshi
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Endoscopic full‐thickness resection for gastric submucosal tumors is gradually gaining popularity, and secure and amenable closure is key to its success. This study aimed to compare the reopenable clip over‐the‐line method with the purse‐string method for defect closure after endoscopic full‐thickness resection for gastric submucosal tumors.

Methods

This historical control trial included 37 consecutive patients with 37 gastric submucosal tumors, who underwent endoscopic full‐thickness resection between January 2021 and July 2024. All lesions were resected en bloc. After excluding three patients who underwent non‐full‐thickness resection, 34 patients were analyzed. Post‐endoscopic full‐thickness resection defects were closed using the purse‐string method (n = 18) until 2022 and the reopenable clip over‐the‐line method (n = 16) from 2023.

Results

The median (interquartile range) time for defect closure was longer in the reopenable clip over‐the‐line method group of 33 (31–57) min than in the purse‐string method group of 26 (24–35) min (p = 0.013). The visual analog scale pain score at the umbilical region was lower (p = 0.048) after the reopenable clip over‐the‐line method than after the purse‐string method. In the reopenable clip over‐the‐line method group, post‐procedural abdominal pain was confined to the epigastrium, whereas it extended to the umbilical or left lateral regions in the purse‐string method group. The reopenable clip over‐the‐line method group commenced the diet (p = 0.001) and discharged (p = 0.024) earlier than the purse‐string method group.

Conclusions

Reopenable clip over‐the‐line method facilitated secure post‐endoscopic full‐thickness resection defect closure, reduced post‐procedural abdominal pain, and shortened the fasting and hospitalization periods after endoscopic full‐thickness resection in gastric submucosal tumors.
Soil Decomposer Can Regulate the Legacy Effect of Photodegradation on Forest Marcescent Litter Decomposition, but Emerging Microplastics Disrupt This
Authors: Tian Kai , Wang Xin , Ye Rumeng , Wang Yingqi , Chen Zhicheng , Liu Xiaojing , Wang Wenxia , Yao Lunguang
Published: January 2025

Photodegradation—photochemical mineralization of standing litters—often exerts a legacy effect aiding biodegradation in soil (PLE), which is overlooked in deciduous forests containing marcescent leaves. Meanwhile, increasing anthropogenic microplastics have deposited in forests, how they would affect the PLE on subsequent litter bio‐decomposition is currently unknown. Here, we employed an ultraviolet‐accelerated aging chamber to replicate the abiotic photodegradation process of a naturally marcescent tree, Lindera glauca, then manipulated mesocosm bio‐incubations to quantify how decomposers (microbial alone or with soil animals) and microplastic contamination would interactively affect the PLE. We found abiotic photodegradation significantly decreased litter lignin content before and after the bio‐incubation. During an early phase decomposition, lignin lost greatly and displayed a crucial role in determining the ways that soil animal and photodegradation affect the bio‐decomposition. Microbial decomposer alone led to a positive PLE universally. Soil animals depressed microbial biomass and inhibited the microbial‐mediated PLE in unpolluted mesocosms but intensified the PLE in contaminated soils. We conclude that decomposer interactions can attenuate PLE, but microplastics will disrupt the established equilibrium, making contaminated soil more susceptible to photodegradation‐induced litter chemical changes. This promotes integration of radiation and emerging pollution to further our understanding of biogeochemical cycle in forest ecology.
Frontopolar Cortex Interacts With Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex to Causally Guide Metacognition
Authors: Kapetaniou Georgia E. , Moisa Marius , Ruff Christian C. , Tobler Philippe N. , Soutschek Alexander
Published: January 2025

Accurate metacognitive judgments about an individual's performance in a mental task require the brain to have access to representations of the quality and difficulty of first‐order cognitive processes. However, little is known about how accurate metacognitive judgments are implemented in the brain. Here, we combine brain stimulation with functional neuroimaging to determine the neural and psychological mechanisms underlying the frontopolar cortex's (FPC) role in metacognition. Specifically, we evaluate two‐layer neural architectures positing that FPC enables metacognitive judgments by communicating with brain regions encoding first‐order decision difficulty. In support of two‐layer architectures of metacognition, we found that high‐intensity transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS; 4 mA peak‐to‐peak) over FPC impaired metacognitive accuracy; at the neural level, this impairment was reflected by reduced coupling between FPC and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), particularly during difficult metacognitive judgments. We also evaluated conceptual accounts assuming that metacognition relies on self‐directed mentalizing. However, we observed no influence of FPC tACS on mentalizing performance and only a weak overlap of the networks underlying metacognition and mentalizing. Together, our findings put the FPC at the center of a two‐layer architecture that enables accurate evaluations of cognitive processes, mainly via the FPC's connectivity with regions encoding first‐level task difficulty, with little contributions from mentalizing‐related processes.
A Pilot Trial of Tongue Reconstruction Using the Chimeric Innervated Vastus Lateralis Muscle and Antero‐Lateral Thigh Free Flap
Authors: Charters Emma , Boehm Jessica , D'Silva Anita Macdonald , Wu Raymond , Mueller Simon A. , Low Tsu‐Hui (Hubert) , Clark Jonathan R. , Wykes James
Published: January 2025

Background

Subtotal and total glossectomies for advanced tongue cancer result in significant speech‐ and swallow‐related morbidity, impairing quality of life. This prospective pilot study compares the safety and functional outcomes associated with using a chimeric innervated muscle and fasciocutaneous flap for soft tissue reconstruction.

Materials and Methods

A prospective, non‐randomized controlled pilot study evaluated a standardized technique for tongue reconstruction using a chimeric innervated vastus lateralis muscle and anterolateral thigh fasciocutaneous flap. Inclusion criteria were ≥ 50% resection of the oral tongue. Participants were followed longitudinally, with measures recorded at baseline, 6–8 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery. The primary endpoints were post‐operative complications, time to radiotherapy, operative time, and locoregional failure, videofluoroscopy swallow studies (dynamic imaging grade of swallowing toxicity (DIGEST), penetration and aspiration score, performance status scale for head and neck). Secondary endpoints were patient‐rated outcomes.

Results

Eighteen participants were recruited (10 intervention: 8 controls). Fourteen (78%) experienced complications, only one of which was related to the innervated flap. DIGEST scores deteriorated post‐operatively across all participants but did not differ significantly between the intervention and control groups (p = 0.4) at any point post‐surgery, despite more extensive resections in the intervention group. Those in the intervention group had better patient‐rated intelligibility (p = 0.04). Multimodality treatment was associated with worse speech (p = 0.03) and normalcy of diet (p = 0.02). Less extensive resections were associated with better scores in eating in public (p = 0.005), tongue range of movement (p = 0.0008), intelligibility (p = 0.006), and diet (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

The innervated vastus lateralis and antero‐lateral thigh free‐flap technique is safe and improves speech intelligibility for patients with subtotal and total glossectomy defects. However, the technique requires refinement to optimize functional and quality‐of‐life outcomes.
Iron fertilization and shade impacts on two warm‐season turfgrasses under greenhouse conditions
Authors: Taylor Jacob W. , Liu Haibo , White Sarah A. , Luo Hong
Published: January 2025

Two greenhouse studies were conducted at the Clemson University Greenhouse Research Complex in Clemson, SC, to examine the impacts of shade and iron fertilization on two warm‐season turfgrasses under greenhouse conditions. Diamond zoysiagrass [Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr] and Tifgrand bermudagrass (Cynodon transvaalensis Burt‐Davy x C. dactylon) were grown in pure sand; under full sun, 40% continuous shade, and 60% continuous shade; and treated with three levels of foliar‐applied ferrous sulfate (FeSO4 • H2O)—control, 3 kg ha−1 Fe, and 5 kg ha−1 Fe. Turfgrasses were evaluated based on visual turfgrass quality (TQ), normalized difference vegetative index (NDVI), shoot chlorophyll index, clipping yield, tissue nutrient concentrations, total root and verdure biomass, and total biomass. Turf species and shade level impacted TQ and NDVI most weeks, whereas Fe only impacted TQ most weeks. Diamond had consistently higher TQ scores than Tifgrand. Both species displayed acceptable TQ under light to moderate shade, and unacceptable TQ was only shown under 60% shade. Iron applications of 3 and 5 kg ha−1 produced higher TQ scores than the control, demonstrating that Fe fertilization may have beneficial impacts, improving TQ of shaded to non‐shaded turfgrasses.
Parental Drinking Patterns and Adolescent Alcohol Consumption: Considering the Role of Sex and Developmental Stage
Authors: Kondratenko Valeriia A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Research indicates that parental behaviors shape adolescents' alcohol consumption, but it is unclear whether mothers or fathers have a more significant impact and how this relationship varies by sex and developmental stage. This study examines the effects of parental alcohol consumption patterns on adolescents in Russia using a large representative sample.

Methods

The study employs pooled data from the Russia Longitudinal Monitoring Survey—Higher School of Economics (RLMS‐HSE) from 2006 to 2019. The final sample included 25 611 cases of adolescents with the available data on their parents (20% male adolescents aged 14–17, 20% female adolescents aged 14–17, 28% male adolescents aged 18–22, and 32% female adolescents aged 18–22; M = 18.22, SD = 2.63). Logistic regression models were used to account for sex and developmental stages. Adolescent drinking was measured as a binary variable indicating drinking at least sometimes, while parental drinking was categorised into five levels, including moderate and excessive consumption.

Results

Maternal alcohol consumption patterns were associated with adolescent drinking. Sex differences were observed, with parental drinking patterns showing a greater association with alcohol use for female adolescents. For middle adolescents, a positive association with excessive alcohol consumption by their parents was found.

Conclusion

The study emphasises the importance of considering both parents' alcohol consumption patterns when examining adolescent alcohol use, with findings indicating that maternal drinking played a more significant role than paternal drinking. It is crucial to explore this relationship separately for male and female adolescents, considering the stage of adolescence.
Thyroid Endocrine Disrupting Potential of Fluoxetine in Zebrafish Larvae
Authors: Huang Jin , Liu Kunyun , Chen Shan , Tang Huijia , Li Ruiwen , Wang Xianzheng , Sun Heying
Published: January 2025

Fluoxetine (FLX), a typical selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, has been frequently detected in aquatic environment and wild fish. However, little is known about its effect on thyroid endocrine system. In the present study, zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos were exposed to 1, 3, 10, and 30 μg/L of FLX for 6 days. Chemical analysis demonstrated that FLX and its metabolic product (nonfluoxetine, NFLX) were accumulated in zebrafish larvae. The exposure resulted in decreased thyroid hormones (THs) levels, indicating thyroid endocrine disruption. Moreover, thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) content was significantly inhibited in a concentration‐dependent manner after exposure to FLX. Gene transcription in the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis was further examined, and the results showed that the genes encoding corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (crh) and thyrotropin‐releasing hormone (trh) were significantly up‐regulated as a compensatory mechanism for the decreased TH contents accompanied with decreased tshβ mRNA expression. In addition, genes involved in thyroid hormone synthesis (sodium/iodide symporter, nis, thyroglobulin, tg) and transport (transthyretin, ttr) were down‐regulated after exposure to FLX in a concentration‐dependent manner. The increased gene transcription of deiodinases (dio2) and uridinediphosphate‐glucuronosyltransferase (ugt1ab) might be responsible for the decrease of TH contents. In addition, a significant inhibition in thyroid hormone receptors (trα and trβ) gene expression was observed upon treatment with FLX. All these results demonstrated that FLX could alter THs and TSH content as well as gene transcription in the HPT axis, exerting an endocrine disruption of the thyroid system in zebrafish larvae.
Wearable Multimodal Optical Analyzers: Physiological Variability and Reproducibility of Measurements
Authors: Loktionova Yu. I. , Zharkikh E. V. , Parshakova V. E. , Sidorov V. V. , Dunaev A. V.
Published: January 2025

The work is devoted to the study of the physiological variability of the microcirculatory‐tissue system (MTS) parameters under normal conditions and during functional tests. The results were obtained in vivo using multimodal wearable analyzers implementing methods of laser Doppler flowmetry and fluorescence spectroscopy. Comprehensive data analysis and calculation of the coefficients of variation of the MTS parameters of the human body for various topographic and anatomical areas of the skin were carried out. The obtained results showed higher values of the coefficient of variation of MTS parameters in the area of the toes and wrists, while the fingers and forehead skin showed lower levers of variation. In all areas of the study, reproducibility of the parameters obtained for the right and left areas of the study is observed.