bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical Profiles in Hypertensive Patients Attending Adeoyo Teaching Hospital, Ibadan: Insights for Improved Management Strategies
Authors: Helen Oniye Adesola , Shariah Ariwoola Bright , Ebun Adesina Beatrice , Olatunbosun Amusan Festus , Ehilenbalu Inegbenebor Sylvester , Peter Akpan Richard , Raphael Alabi
Published: February 2025

Introduction: A leading cause of cardiovascular disorders and metabolic dysregulation, hypertension continues to pose a serious threat to global health. Urbanization, dietary changes, and sedentary lifestyles are some of the factors contributing to the rising prevalence of hypertension in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. Understanding the biochemical profiles of hypertensive people is critical for devising successful management regimens, particularly in resource-limited situations.
Aim/Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the biochemical analytes of hypertension patients at Adeoyo Teaching Hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria, with those of non-hypertensive controls. By examining these profiles, the research aims to clarify metabolic trends and lay the groundwork for better control of hypertension.
Methods: Fifty (50) hypertension patients and fifty (50) non-hypertensive controls, matched by age and sex, participated in a cross-sectional comparative study. Biochemical indicators such as electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate), fasting glucose, lipid profiles (triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL, and LDL), albumin, creatinine, and total protein were measured in blood samples. IBM SPSS version 26 was used to analyze the data, and t-tests, Pearson's correlation, and descriptive statistics were used.
Results: In comparison to controls, hypertensive patients had significantly lower sodium levels (138.32 ± 2.59 mmol/L, p < 0.0001), significantly higher fasting glucose (101.96 ± 27.51 mg/dL, p < 0.0001), triglycerides (125.44 ± 21.96 mg/dL, p < 0.0001), and total cholesterol (225.04 ± 40.39 mg/dL, p = 0.0358). Positive correlations between triglycerides and total cholesterol (r = 0.54, p = 0.0001) and between triglycerides and fasting glucose (r = 0.30, p = 0.0365) were found by correlation analysis, indicating linked metabolic changes.
Conclusion: The study's findings emphasize the metabolic complexity of hypertension and call for multidisciplinary approaches to patient management, community-based dietary interventions, and routine biochemical monitoring. It also emphasizes the significance of thorough biochemical profiling in hypertensive care.
A Survey on Prevalence of Fusarium Wilt of Chickpea in Prakasam District of Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: G Amulya , A.K. Patibanda , V Prasanna Kumari
Published: February 2025

A roving survey was conducted during rabi season 2018-19 in six predominantly chickpea growing mandals of Prakasam district, A.P with an aim to observe the incidence of Fusarium wilt symptoms caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceri (Foc) and to forecast/ forewarm the farmers regarding measures to be taken to offset its damage. When the data was collected from 24 fields running across 12 villages in six mandals of Prakasam district, average wilt incidence was found to be 94.25 per cent. Among the mandals, Ponnaluru, Komarolu and Cumbum mandals had maximum 100 per cent disease incidence while least incidence of 74.5 per cent was observed in Ongole mandal.
Soil Property Mapping Using Geo-Statistical Techniques: A Case Study of Muzaffarpur District of Bihar, India
Authors: Kumar Abhineet , Nidhi
Published: February 2025

Crop production is governed by three factors, viz., soil, inputs and climatic condition. Climatic conditions are beyond human control whereas soil and other inputs can be altered to enhance crop production. An understanding of soil properties is required for sustainable management of soil to reduce soil erosion and enhance soil health and fertility level. The variability of soil properties is needed for agricultural productivity, food safety and environmental modelling. The present study was conducted in soils of Muzaffarpur district in Bihar, India to understand the soil properties mapping using geostatistical Techniques. Soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), sulphur (S) and zinc (Zn)were measured. Spatial maps of soil properties were prepared using the semivariogram model through kriging techniques. The nugget-sill ratio for pH ranged between 0.25- 0.75, indicating a moderate level of spatial dependence among the variables. For soil properties such as EC, OC, S, and Zn, the nugget-sill ratio was greater than 0.75, indicating a weak level of spatial dependence for these variables. The cross-validation results illustrated the smoothing effect of the spatial prediction. The maps developed by kriging were observed to be superior to assuming mean of observed value for any un-sampled location. These maps may help farmers to adopt need based variable rate of fertilizer application thus optimizing resource utilization. The present study suggests that the geostatistical model can directly reveal the spatial variability of soils.
Yield Gap Analysis of Maize in Different Agro-climatic Zones in Telangana, India
Authors: Reddy D. Srinvasa , Suman A. , Teja B. Ram Charan , Gayathri P. , Dinesh T. M. , Raj B.  Mohan Uday , Suhasini K.
Published: February 2025

Maize is a vital cereal crop worldwide, serving as a staple food, fodder, and industrial raw material. In India, it ranks third among cultivated cereals after rice and wheat, with Telangana being a significant contributor. This study examined yield gaps in maize production across the Northern Telangana Zone (NTZ), Central Telangana Zone (CTZ), and Southern Telangana Zone (STZ). The results highlighted that Yield Gap-I (difference between potential yield and progressive farmers’ yield) was highest in STZ at 5.4 quintals/acre and lowest in CTZ at 3.9 quintals/acre, with an average of 4.5 quintals/acre for the state. Yield Gap-II (difference between potential yield and actual farmers’ yield) was also highest in STZ at 13.5 quintals/acre and lowest in NTZ 9.3 quintals/acre with an overall average of 11.3 quintals per acre in Telangana. Indices of yield gap revealed that STZ had the highest unrealized yield potential (35.7%), while NTZ had the lowest (25.2%).  Major factors contributing to these gaps included agro-climatic conditions, soil fertility, and irrigation infrastructure. This study also identified production and marketing constraints such as high costs of plant protection chemicals, seeds, and fertilizers, along with labour shortages, as the most significant production challenges. Marketing constraints such as insufficient market facilities, remunerative prices, storage facilities and untimely payment were the prominent marketing challenges. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to reduce yield gaps through enhanced extension services, cost-effective inputs, and improved infrastructure. Strengthening the linkages among farmers, extension agents, and researchers is crucial to bridging resource and knowledge gaps, thereby boosting productivity and profitability in maize cultivation across Telangana.
Fecal Carriage of Beta-Lactam-Resistant Escherichia coli Through Pigeon Droppings (Columba palumbus) in Lome, Togo
Authors: Siliadin A. B. W. , Diallo M. B. , Ananivi K. D. , Sama T. , Gahimbare L. , Salou M.
Published: February 2025

Aims: The study aimed to report the occurrence of ESBL-Escherichia coli from pigeons.
Study Design and Place and Duration of Study: A total of 16 Samples were collected including eight from residential and eight from commercial pigeon houses from February to July 2024 in Lomé's Golfe district.
Study Design: This forward-looking study took place from February to July 2024 in Lomé's Golfe district, Togo.
Place and Duration of Study: Four samples were collected monthly and per site over six months from four pigeon houses, namely two residential and two commercial pigeon houses.
Methodology: Freshly excreated droppings were collected and inoculated on-site directly into Mac Conkey Agar + 4mg/l of CTX (Cefotaxime) and Mac Conkey Agar + ERT 0,5mg/l of (Ertapenem) media, then into salted peptone water. After 24 h incubation at 37°C, the inoculums were reseeded onto Mac Conkey Agar + 4mg/l of CTX (Cefotaxime) and Mac Conkey Agar + ERT 0,5mg/l of (Ertapenem) media for a further 24 h incubation at 37°C.  All colony types obtained on the seeded media were identified at the end of the different incubations using the API 20E gallery. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E coli isolate were detected by antibiogram using the Kirby-Bauer method.
Results: Of the 96 samples taken, evenly distributed by type of loft, 52 (54.17%) contained ESBL E. coli isolate. No resistance to carbapenems was observed in any of the E coli isolate isolated. Over the study period, from the dry to the rainy season, was observed an increase in the carriage of E coli ESBL in commercial and domestic pigeons, reflecting more frequent dissemination of E coli ESBL isolate as compared to the rainy season than during the dry season.
Conclusion: pigeons are a reservoir for transferring multi-resistant E. coli isolate to humans.
Towards Promoting the Culture of Sharing: Using Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence in an Open Science Platform
Authors: Denden Mouna , Abed Mourad
Published: February 2025

Several studies in the literature have proposed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to manage big data and further enhance collaboration between researchers on open science platforms, hence promoting the culture of safely sharing reliable data. Moreover, some other studies further proposed the use of blockchain technology to secure data, provide transparency in data analysis, and also keep track of all collaborations within open science platforms. Despite the importance of AI and blockchain technology in open science platforms, no study, to the best of our knowledge, has implemented and discussed the benefits of using both technologies together or how blockchain can enhance AI systems in open science. Therefore, to address this research gap, this study presents a newly developed open science platform that harnesses the power of AI and blockchain technologies to promote and foster a culture of sharing and seamless collaboration among universities worldwide. This platform was then validated through focus group analysis from the European University for Customised Education (EUNICE) partners, which is the project context of this present study. The findings revealed that the use of AI and blockchain enabled researchers and institutions to share open science more effectively. Specifically, the use of AI features in Open REUNICE enhanced data management processes, particularly by improving metadata accuracy, searchability and reusability, thereby addressing critical needs in research workflows. Additionally, the use of Blockchain was found to play a critical role in addressing legal challenges and enhancing user trust.
Heterozygous variants in AP4S1 are not associated with a neurological phenotype
Authors: Quiroz Vicente , Zubair Umar , Schierbaum Luca , Tam Amy , Battaglia Nicole , Rong Joshua , Agianda Habibah A. P. , Alecu Julian E. , Yang Kathryn , Ebrahimi‐Fakhari Darius
Published: January 2025

Biallelic loss‐of‐function variants in AP4S1 cause childhood‐onset hereditary spastic paraplegia. A recent report suggested that heterozygous AP4S1 variants lead to a syndrome of lower limb spasticity and dysregulation of sphincter function. We critically evaluate this claim against clinical observations in 28 heterozygous carriers of the same AP4S1 variant (NM_007077.3: c.289C>T, p.Arg97Ter). In these 14 males and 14 females (mean age: 37.6 ± 4.9 years [SD], range: 30–50 years), we ascertain no increased prevalence of neurological manifestations. Alternative causes should be considered when evaluating patients with heterozygous AP4S1 variants and neurological symptoms, as misattribution of pathogenicity can impact clinical care and genetic counseling.
A Distributed Actor‐Critic Learning Approach for Affine Formation Control of Multi‐Robots With Unknown Dynamics
Authors: Zhang Ronghua , Ma Qingwen , Zhang Xinglong , Xu Xin , Liu Daxue
Published: January 2025

Formation maneuverability is particularly important for multi‐robots (MRs), especially when the robots are operating cooperatively in complex and dynamic environments. Although various methods have been developed for affine formation, it is still a difficult problem to design an affine formation controller for MRs with unknown dynamics. In this paper, a distributed actor‐critic learning approach (DACL) in a look‐ahead rollout manner is proposed for the affine formation of MRs under local communication, which improves the online learning efficiency. In the proposed approach, a distributed data‐driven online optimization mechanism is designed via the sparse kernel technique to solve the near‐optimal affine formation control issue of MRs with unknown dynamics as well as improve control performance. The unknown dynamics of MRs are learned offline based on precollected input‐output datasets, and the sparse kernel‐based approach is employed to increase the feature representation capability of the samples. Then, the proposed distributed online actor‐critic algorithm for each robot in the formation includes two neural networks, which are utilized to approximate the costate functions and the near‐optimal policies. Moreover, the convergence analysis of the proposed approach has been conducted. Finally, numerical simulation and KKSwarm‐based experiment studies are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
B Doped Zn Single‐Atom Nanozyme With Enhanced Oxidase‐Like Activity Combined CRISPR/Cas13a System for RNA Sensing
Authors: Li Shuofeng , Wang Fangfang , Wang Chenhuan , Hao Lin , Shang Ningzhao , Zhang Pengbo , Zhang Yawen , Xiao Nuo , Kang Yaai , Liu Jin , Gao Shutao , Wang Chun , Wang Zhi , Wu Qiuhua
Published: January 2025

Single‐atom nanozyme (SAZ) with peroxidase‐like activity has attracted great attention in point‐of‐care (POC) diagnostic, but the use of unstable H2O2 in peroxidase catalytic reactions often leads to low detection accuracy. Thus, developing SAZ with high oxidase (OD)‐like activity to construct RNA sensing systems independent of H2O2 is imperative for improving accuracy. Herein, a novel strategy to fabricate boron‐nitrogen co‐doped zinc SAZ (ZnBNC‐SAZ) with excellent OD‐like activity by carbonizing Zn based zeolitic boron imidazolate frameworks is reported. The electron deficient B in imidazolate ligand can form Zn─N─B bond in situ during high temperature pyrolysis, which can regulate the electronic structure of Zn and further upshift the d‐band center of Zn to improve the OD‐like activity. With ZnBNC‐SAZ as signal generator, a new method for sensitive RNA detection is developed by combining CRISPR/ cas13 system with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐induced DNA extension reaction. The limits of detection for RNAs are as low as 20 aM. The proposed biosensor is adaptable to a lateral‐flow‐based readout and is universally applicable for sensing various RNAs by programming the guide RNA. Importantly, the proposed biosensor can monitor the cellular differentiation and identify patients with cervical carcinoma, showing great potential for application in facile POC diagnosis.
Efficient Tunable White Emission and Blue Light‐Excited Near‐Infrared Emission in Lead‐Free Metal Halide Crystals with Ultra‐High Luminous Efficiency for Multispectral Image Fusion and 3D Image Reconstruction
Authors: Peng Hui , Kan Xuda , Huang Wenjie , Wang Fei , Kong Linghang , Yu Shuiyue , Zhao Jialong , Zou Bingsuo
Published: January 2025

0D hybrid Sb(III) halides generally exhibit unique crystal structure and efficient emission. However, achieving efficient white light and blue light‐excited near‐infrared (NIR) emission remains an enormous challenge. Herein, a series of 0D hybrid Sb(III) halides of (18‐crown‐6@K)2SbX5 (X = Cl, Br) crystals with different Cl/Br rations are synthesized via supramolecular self‐assembly. All compounds show the broadband emission, which stems from the self‐trapped excitons in [SbX5]2− pseudo‐octahedral structure. Particularly, (18‐crown‐6@K)2SbCl5 crystal shows tunable emission under various excitation wavelengths, and the efficient white emission with an ultra‐high luminous efficiency of 92.3% is obtained under 310 nm excitation. As Br gradually replaces Cl, not only the excitation and emission bands show a red‐shift but also facilitate the intersystem crossing process from singlet to triplet excitons. Thus, an independent broadband NIR emission upon 450 nm excitation with an ultra‐high luminous efficiency of 58.2% is obtained in (18‐crown‐6@K)2SbBr5 crystals. Moreover, the high‐performance single‐component white light‐emitting diode (WLED) based on (18‐crown‐6@K)2SbCl5 and NIR LED based on (18‐crown‐6@K)2SbBr5 are fabricated, and white light and NIR image fusion is realized. Finally, combined with multiangle imaging under WLED and NIR LED irradiation, the 3D image reconstruction of a centrifuge tube wrapped in a capsule is successfully demonstrated.
Isomeric Poly(arylene piperidinium) Electrolyte Membranes with High Alkaline Durability
Authors: Wang Tao , Chen Duoying , Wang Chenxi , Wei Haibing , Ding Yunsheng
Published: January 2025

The isomerization strategy is employed to enhance the alkaline stability of poly(arylene piperidinium)s (PAP) while maintaining the monomer commerciality and polymer architecture tunability. Isomeric poly(arylene piperidinium) (i‐PAP) exhibits improved alkali resistance relative to conventional PAP, as evidenced by ex situ alkaline stability and in situ cell durability tests. Following treatment in 10 m aqueous NaOH at 80 °C for 360 h or operation at 0.4 A cm−2 for 100 h in an anion exchange membrane fuel cell (AEMFC) prototype, the decomposition of the piperidinium moieties in i‐PAP is ≈50% of that observed in PAP. Moreover, through a copolymerization strategy, the i‐PAP‐88 membrane, which has suppressed water absorption, reaches a peak power density of 1.44 W cm−2 and demonstrates an in situ durability of 310 h. Furthermore, a noble metal‐free (anode) AEM water electrolyzer (AEMWE) achieves a high current density of 6.43 A cm⁻2 at 2.0 V and an excellent Faradaic efficiency of 98.3%. This study highlights a strategy for designing alkali‐stable polyelectrolytes that mitigate degradation during the operation of alkaline electrochemical devices.
Selective In Situ Analysis of Hepatogenic Exosomal microRNAs via Virus‐Mimicking Multifunctional Magnetic Vesicles
Authors: Meng Lingchang , Wang Lulu , Sun Zhiting , Mu Genglin , Li Zhiyang , Wu Jing
Published: January 2025

Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) is a common clinical problem with urgent respect to demanding early diagnosis. Exosomal miRNAs are reliable and noninvasive biomarkers for the early diagnosis of DILI. However, accurate and feasible detection of exosomal miRNAs is often hampered by the low abundance of miRNAs, inefficient exosome separation techniques, and the requirement for RNA extraction from large sample volumes. Here, the multifunctional magnetic vesicles are constructed by loading a multiple signal amplification detection system and magnetic nanoparticles into virus‐mimicking engineered vesicles to achieve in situ analysis of hepatogenic exosomal miRNAs, which do not require miRNA extraction or target amplification. Virus‐mimicking engineered vesicles carrying large surface proteins of hepatitis B virus are designed to achieve the specific identity and fusion of hepatogenic exosomes, and the multiple signal amplification detection system assembled by catalytic hairpin assembly technology and CRISPR/Cas13a technology can achieve highly sensitive in situ detection of miRNAs in exosomes with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 1.25 × 102 particles·µL−1. This novel nanoplatforms open a promising avenue for the early clinical diagnosis of DILI.
Close‐to‐Equilibrium Crystallization for Large‐Scale and High‐Quality Perovskite Single Crystals
Authors: Yin Hang , Liao Mingquan , Shi Yuanpeng , Liu Zhiqiang , Li Hanchen , He Song , Zheng Zhiping , Xu Ling , Tang Jiang , Niu Guangda
Published: January 2025

The growth of large semiconductor crystals is crucial for advancing modern electronics and optoelectronics. While various crystal growth techniques have been developed for lead halide perovskites, a significant challenge remains: as crystal size increases, performance tends to deteriorate dramatically. This study addresses the inherent limitations of perovskite crystal growth by designing a novel strategy for near‐equilibrium growth system to maintain optimal conditions throughout the process. The system consists of three independent units: a solution supply unit, a crystal growth unit, and a solution recycling unit, which together ensure a constant solution concentration and temperature. By systematically optimizing temperature control and solution feeding rates, large and high‐quality FAPbBr3 single crystals, including a notable crystal measuring 51 × 45 × 10 mm3 are successfully produced. This crystal demonstrates a mobility‐lifetime product of 2.83 × 10⁻2 cm2 V⁻¹ and an ultralow detection limit of 319.22 pGyair, significantly surpassing existing perovskite crystals of similar size. The approach can serve as a universal platform for the controlled synthesis of all kinds of perovskite single crystals, laying the foundations for their use in various optoelectronic applications.
Cycloolefin Copolymers With a Multiply Rigid Structure for Protecting Triplet Exciton From Thermo‐ and Moisture‐Quenching
Authors: Tang Shiman , Jiang Shunnan , Wang Kaiti , Zhang Yushuang , Yi Lijie , Hou Jiahong , Qu Lunjun , Zhao Yanli , Yang Chaolong
Published: January 2025

Polymeric room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials have been well developed and utilized in various fields. However, their fast thermo‐ and moisture‐quenching behavior highly limit their applications in certain harsh environments. Therefore, the preparation of materials with thermo‐ and moisture‐resistant phosphorescence is greatly attractive. Compared with common water‐soluble polymers, cycloolefin copolymers (COC) show outstanding hydrophobicity and higher rigidity, even at elevated temperatures, being as a promising candidate to prepare phosphorescence materials with suppressed thermo‐ and moisture‐quenching behavior. Herein, a type of COC bearing hydroxyl, ester, and adamantanyl side groups is synthesized. After dispersing various phosphors into this matrix, the resultant composites exhibit full‐color RTP with lifetimes of 249–590 ms. Their luminescence does not show obvious quenching in water, acid, alkalinous, reductive, and oxidative environments. In the presence of both rigid COC matrix and rigid phosphors, the corresponding composite displays high‐temperature phosphorescence performance. Even at 378 K, the composite can emit phosphorescence with a lifetime of 40–98 ms. The applications of these COC‐based composites for imaging, information encryption, and anti‐counterfeiting are thus explored.
Mechanochemical Synthesis of Type III Porous Liquids from Solid Precursors for the Removal and Conversion of Waste CO2 from CH4
Authors: Ning Hailong , Ge Xuyang , Sheng Lisha , Zhang Zhaocong , Shi Mingzhen , Lan Hongchao , Jie Kecheng , Zhang Xiaomin , Hu Xingbang , Wu Youting
Published: January 2025

Porous liquids (PLs) have emerged as a promising class of flow porous materials, offering distinctive benefits for sustainable separation processes coupled with catalytic transformations in the chemical industry. Despite their potential, challenges remain in the realms of synthesis complexity, stability, and the strategic engineering of separation and catalytic sites. In this study, a scalable mechanochemical synthetic approach is reported to fabricate Type III PLs from solid precursors with high stability. In these Type III PLs, ZIF‐8 nanocrystals are dispersed in the deep eutectic solvents formed by solid hydrogen‐bond donors and acceptors. Owing to the presence of multiple interfacial hydrogen and coordination bonds, these PLs not only maintain porosity and fluidity with high stability, enabling efficient CH4 purification by CO2 removal and sequestration, but also facilitate the catalytic conversion of stored CO2 into valuable products under ambient conditions. This strategy advances the green production of stable and well‐dispersed PLs, showing the potential of PLs in the sustainable separation and catalysis coupling system in the chemical industry.
Mimicking Symmetry‐Breaking Einstein Ring by Optical Lens
Authors: Duan Jun‐Liang , Xiao Wen , Guo Minyong , Liu Tong , Chen Huanyang , Chen Jin‐Hui
Published: January 2025

The celebrated theory of general relativity has inspired research on optical simulations using artificial microstructures to mimic curved space–times. The gravitational lensing that bends light close to large mass concentrations is one of the most fascinating predictions by general relativity. Herein, an optical lens is utilized to emulate the gravitational lensing effect and observe the Einstein ring (ER) patterns. The ER patterns and their spatial evolution with imaging distance, both experimentally and theoretically, are quantitatively studied. A profound example of the symmetry‐breaking ER, i.e., the Einstein cross, is observed utilizing a rotation‐symmetry‐breaking hemi‐ellipsoid lens. Based on the bending angle diagram, a series of deformed Einstein cross patterns induced by noncollinearly alignment of the light source–lens–observer are revealed. Inspired by the analogy between gravitational lensing and optical lens, a novel lens of nested concentric grooves is created and multi‐ER patterns are realized. The work provides an intriguing platform for exploring the unconventional gravitational lensing effect and may also find applications in optical ranging.
Regulation of Zinc Deposition by In Situ Formed Liquid Metal Interface for Dendrite‐Free Zinc Metal Anodes
Authors: Luo Qingyue , Wang Kaizhao , Chen Daotong , Wang Kaijun , Sun Zhaowei , Xu Wenyu , Li Junkai , Wang Yafei , Guo Qingpeng , Liao Jingjing , Deng Zhongshan , Hu Jin , Xiong Shizhao
Published: January 2025

Uncontrolled dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution and corrosion challenges associated with zinc (Zn) anodes significantly restrict the practical application of zinc batteries. Herein, a liquid metal gallium (Ga) interface is in situ formed on carbon paper (CP) by electrochemical co‐deposition to construct a dendrite‐free Zn‐Ga@CP composite electrode which can regulate the transport and chemistry of Zn deposition at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Notably, the concurrent reduction of Zn2+ and Ga3+ on carbon paper results in the formation of a self‐supporting Zn electrode with 3D interpenetrating structure of Zn and Ga. Compared to zinc foil electrodes, the highly conductive liquid Ga layer lowers the nucleation energy barrier of Zn promotes the homogeneity of the electric field and ion flux, and induces uniform deposition of Zn. In addition, the low chemical activity of liquid Ga prevents a high rate of hydrogen evolution reaction and associated parasitic reactions. As a result, the Zn‐Ga@CP symmetric cell delivers stable cycling of >350 h at a discharge depth of 23.3% and ultra‐low voltage hysteresis. Moreover, the coin‐type and pouch‐type full cells exhibit excellent durability and good mechanical stability. This work provides a novel interface regulation strategy for achieving high‐performance dendrite‐free anode in Zn metal batteries.
Monolithic Desktop Digital Fabrication of Autonomous Walking Robots
Authors: Zhai Yichen , Yan Jiayao , De Boer Albert , Faber Martin , Gupta Rohini , Tolley Michael T.
Published: January 2025

The fully automated fabrication of robots has long been a holy grail with the potential to revolutionize various industries, including manufacturing, construction, disaster relief, and space exploration. 3D printing offers a promising approach to automation, but the ability to print entire, complex robots with multiple materials remains limited. Previous approaches have simplified robot manufacturing by using fluidic control circuits, but these rely on labor‐intensive methods like silicone molding and manual assembly, limiting accessibility and replicability. Recent work, including this work, has demonstrated 3D‐printed robotic grippers and crawlers with embedded control circuits, but generating cyclic control outputs for legged locomotion in rough terrain remains challenging. This study addresses the challenge with a monolithic 3D‐printable four‐phase bistable oscillating valve, capable of generating coordinated motion of multiple limbs from a steady source of pressurized air. The ability of the oscillator to control an electronics‐free autonomous legged robot capable of walking on rough terrain, which can be fully fabricated on a desktop 3D printer without postassembly is demonstrated. The robot is operational immediately upon connection to an air supply. This development marks a significant step toward accessible, customizable, and biodegradable autonomous soft robots that can be produced using desktop 3D printers with no human intervention.
Accelerometer‐measured physical activity timing with incident dementia
Authors: Ning Yuye , Chen Meilin , Yang Hao , Jia Jianping
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION

Moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is linked to lower dementia risk, though the optimal timing remains unclear.

METHODS

Using accelerometer‐measured MVPA data from 90,329 dementia‐free UK Biobank participants with at least 2 years of follow‐up, we assessed associations between MVPA patterns (morning, afternoon, evening, mixed, inactive) and dementia risk via multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Compared to the inactive group, participants with a tendency of morning MVPA had a lower risk of all‐cause dementia (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.40–0.90) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk (HR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.22–0.86). No association of the other time point with all‐cause dementia was observed. Additionally, the incidence of vascular dementia (VD) did not exhibit a significant relationship among all timing groups.

DISCUSSION

Morning MVPA was associated with a lower risk of all‐cause dementia and AD, while MVPA at any time point showed no association with VD.

Highlights

Few studies have examined accelerometer‐measured moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) timing with incident dementia.

Participants with a tendency of morning MVPA had a lower risk of all‐cause dementia and Alzheimer's disease. No significant association was found between all MVPA timing and vascular dementia (VD) risk.

Findings suggest timing‐specific physical activity interventions for dementia prevention.
Compositional brain scores capture Alzheimer's disease–specific structural brain patterns along the disease continuum
Authors: Genius Patricia , Calle M. Luz , Rodríguez‐Fernández Blanca , Minguillon Carolina , Cacciaglia Raffaele , Garrido‐Martin Diego , Esteller Manel , Navarro Arcadi , Gispert Juan Domingo , Vilor‐Tejedor Natalia ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative,   for the ALFA study
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION

Traditional multivariate methods for neuroimaging studies overlook the interdependent relationship between brain features. This study addresses this gap by analyzing relative brain volumetric patterns to capture how Alzheimer's disease (AD) and genetics influence brain structure along the disease continuum.

METHODS

This study analyzed data from participants across the AD continuum from the Alzheimer's and Families (ALFA) and Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) studies. Compositional data analysis (CoDA) was exploited to examine relative brain volumetric variations that (1) were linked to different AD stages compared to cognitively unimpaired amyloid‐β–negative (CU A−) individuals and (2) varied by AD genetic risk.

RESULTS

Disease stage–specific compositional brain scores were identified, differentiating CU A− individuals from those in more advanced stages. Genetic risk–stratified models revealed a broader genetic landscape affecting brain morphology in AD, beyond the well‐known apolipoprotein E ε4 allele.

DISCUSSION

CoDA emerges as an alternative multivariate framework to deepen understanding of AD‐related structural changes and support targeted interventions for those at higher genetic risk.

Highlights

Compositional data analysis (CoDA) revealed the relative variation of brain region volumes, captured in compositional brain scores, capable of discerning between cognitively unimpaired amyloid‐β–negative individuals and subjects within other disease‐stage groups along the Alzheimer's disease (AD) continuum.

CoDA also uncovered the genetic vulnerability of specific brain regions at each stage of the disease along the continuum.

CoDA is capable of integrating magnetic resonance imaging data from two different cohorts without stringent requirements for harmonization. This translates as an advantage, compared to traditional methods, and strengthens the reliability of cross‐study comparisons by standardizing the data despite different labeling agreements, facilitating collaborative and large‐scale research.

The algorithm is sensitive to AD‐specific effects, as the main compositional brain scores display little overlap with the age‐specific compositional brain score.

CoDA provides a more accurate analysis of brain imaging data addressing its compositional nature, which can influence the development of targeted approaches, opening new avenues for enhancing brain health.
Malnutrition exacerbating neuropsychiatric symptoms on the Alzheimer's continuum is relevant to the cAMP signaling pathway: Human and mouse studies
Authors: Jiang Jiwei , Jiang Tianlin , Wang Xiaohong , Zhao Min , Shi Hanping , Zhang Huiying , Li Wenyi , Jiang Shirui , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhou Jiawei , Ren Qiwei , Wang Linlin , Yang Shiyi , Yao Zeshan , Liu Yaou , Xu Jun
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION

Malnutrition correlates with neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) in Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, the potential mechanism underlying this association remains unclear.

METHODS

Baseline and longitudinal associations of nutritional status with NPSs were analyzed in 374 patients on the AD continuum and 61 healthy controls. Serum biomarkers, behavioral tests, cerebral neurotransmitters, and differentially gene expression were evaluated in standard and malnourished diet–fed transgenic APPswe/PSEN1dE9 (APP/PS1) mice.

RESULTS

Poor nutritional status and increased cerebral blood flow in the midbrain and striatum were associated with severe general NPSs and subtypes, especially depression, anxiety, and apathy. APP/PS1 mice fed a malnourished diet showed poor nutritional status, depression‐ and anxiety‐like behaviors, altered neurotransmitter levels, and downregulated c‐Fos expression in the midbrain and striatum; these were associated with suppressed cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling pathway.

DISCUSSION

Malnutrition exacerbating NPSs is relevant to suppressed cAMP pathway in the midbrain and striatum, suggesting the potential for targeted nutritional interventions to mitigate NPSs in the AD continuum.

Highlights

Poor nutritional status linked to general and specific neuropsychiatric symptom (NPS) deterioration.

Malnutrition affects NPSs, usually involving the midbrain and striatum.

Malnourished diet induces depression‐ and anxiety‐like behaviors in APP/PS1 mice.

Malnutrition exacerbates NPSs associated with cAMP signaling pathway in the midbrain and striatum.
Polymer Ligands with Multi‐Nitrogen Heterocyclic Carbenes for Enhanced Stability and Reactivity in Nanoparticle Surface Functionalization
Authors: Tao Jing , Zheng Di , Tang Yutian , He Huibin , Zhang Yan , Yang Yanqiong , Dai Liwei , Zha Huaining , Sang Yutao , Nie Zhihong
Published: January 2025

Nitrogen heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) are emerging as effective substitutes for conventional thiol ligands in surface functionalization of nanoparticles (NPs), offering exceptional stability to NPs under harsh conditions. However, the highly reactive feature of NHCs limits their use in introducing chemically active groups onto the NP surface. Herein, we develop a general yet robust strategy for the efficient surface functionalization of NPs with copolymer ligands bearing various functional groups. The polymer ligands consist of a multiple NHCs block, utilized for surface binding on NPs, alongside a poly(reactive ester) block intended for incorporating functional groups. The multiple NHCs block enables NPs with excellent colloidal stability across a broader range of pH values (0–14), temperature variations (–78 °C‐100 °C), and electrolyte concentrations (0–1000 mM). Through the in situ ammonolysis of the poly(reactive ester) block, various active functional groups can be individually or together introduced on the NP surface. We further demonstrate the chemical reactivity of these functionalized NPs, including addition polymerization, Diels–Alder and Schiff base reactions. This method is applicable to various types of NPs, including metal NPs, metal oxide NPs, and even upconversion NPs, thereby paving new pathways for the design and creation of nanoparticle‐based functional materials.
Surface Hydroxylated S/O Dual‐Vacancy S‐Scheme Hollow [In2S3‐x/In2O3‐x](OH)y Heterojunction for Photothermal‐promoted Low‐Temperature Methanol/Water Reforming into Hydrogen
Authors: Pi Yunhong , Lin Wenting , Li Jianxian , Yang Jingyao , Zengcai Ziyu , Chen Quanming , Guo Juan , Wang Tiejun
Published: January 2025

To enable highly efficient in situ hydrogen release from methanol/water reforming at lower temperature, the integration of solar‐energy offers a promising approach to activate methanol/water and substantially lower the activation energy of this reaction. Herein, we present a novel dual‐vacancy defective hollow heterostructure derived from Metal–Organic Frameworks, featuring abundant surface hydroxyl groups and S/O vacancies, for photothermal‐promoted methanol solution reforming into hydrogen. The [In2S3‐x/In2O3‐x](OH)y exhibits exceptional photothermal H2 evolution activity, achieving a production rate of 215.2 mmolgcat−1h−1, 16‐fold higher than its thermocatalytic activity, with an apparent quantum efficiency of 66.8 % at 365 nm and solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency (STH) of 1.1 % under AM 1.5G simulated solar illumination, and excellent durability over 82 h, cumulating 2.61×103 mmolgcat−1. The synergistic effects of dual‐vacancies and the hollow heterostructure significantly enhance the photothermal effect, lowering the activation energy barrier for methanol/water, enabling H2 production at temperatures even as 80 °C under non‐alkaline conditions. Furthermore, the incorporated surface hydroxyl groups facilitate the generation of active surface hydroxyls from water, further driving activation and cleavage of C−H bonds in methanol, thereby markedly reducing the apparent reaction activation energy by 12.5 %. This work provides a new strategy for effective H2 production from aqueous methanol reforming under mild conditions, holding great promise for energy‐demanding industrial applications.
Ph3PC – Ein Monosubstituiertes C(0) Atom im Triplett‐Zustand
Authors: Kutin Yury , Koike Taichi , Drosou Maria , Schnegg Alexander , Pantazis Dimitrios A. , Kasanmascheff Müge , Hansmann Max M.
Published: January 2025

Diese Arbeit etabliert eine neue Klasse von kohlenstoffzentrierten Diradikalen: ein monosubstituiertes C‐Atom, das durch ein Phosphan stabilisiert wird. Das Diradikal Ph3P→C wurde photochemisch aus einem Diazophosphorylid‐Vorläufer (Ph3PCN2) erzeugt und durch EPR‐ und isotopensensitive ENDOR‐Spektroskopie bei niedrigen Temperaturen charakterisiert. Ph3P→C weist einen axialen „zero‐field splitting“ (ZFS) Parameter D=0.543 cm−1 mit einer verschwindend kleinen Rhombizität |E|/D=0.002 auf. Zeit‐ und temperaturabhängige Messungen bestätigen einen Triplett‐Grundzustand mit einer Lebensdauer von etwa 10 min bei 127 K in Toluol‐d8. Elektronische Multireferenzrechnungen sagen einen eindeutigen Triplett‐Grundzustand mit einer Singulett‐Triplett‐Lücke von mehr als 20 kcal/mol voraus. Im Gegensatz zu zweiwertigen C(0)‐Verbindungen wie Ph3P→C←PPh3, bei denen der Kohlenstoff in eine hoch angeregte closed‐shell 2s02p4‐Konfiguration angeregt werden muss, kann die Elektronenstruktur in Ph3P→C durch die direkte Beteiligung des Kohlenstoffs an seinem natürlichen 3P‐Zustand erklärt werden, der sich aus der 2s22p2‐Konfiguration ergibt.
Axially Chiral TADF Imidazolium Salts for Circularly Polarized Light‐Emitting Electrochemical Cells
Authors: Feng Chao , Zhang Ke , Zhang Bianxiang , Feng Liheng , He Lei , Chen Chuan‐Feng , Li Meng
Published: January 2025

A pair of axially chiral thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) enantiomers, R‐TCBN‐ImEtPF6 and S‐TCBN‐ImEtPF6, with intrinsic ionic characteristics were efficiently synthesized by introducing imidazolium hexafluorophosphate to chiral TADF unit. The TADF imidazolium salts exhibited a high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of up to 92 %, a small singlet–triplet energy gap (▵EST) of 0.04 eV, as well as reversible redox properties. Furthermore, the enantiomers showed distinct mirror‐image CD and CPL activities with glum values of −3.7×10−3 and +3.4×10−3. Notably, by doping the axial TADF imidazolium salts into achiral TADF sensitizer, sandwich‐structured light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) without the addition of ionic liquids (ILs) or ionic transition‐metal compounds (iTMCs) were fabricated. When driven at 50 A m−2, the LECs displayed an EQE of up to 5.2 % and strong circularly polarized electroluminescence (CPEL) with gEL values of +3.3×10−3 and −3.0×10−3. This represents the first CP‐LEC based on TADF materials and offers a promising strategy for the development of high‐performance CPEL devices.
Surface‐Confined Disordered Hydrogen Bonds Enable Efficient Lithium Transport in All‐Solid‐State PEO‐Based Lithium Battery
Authors: Fan You , Malyi Oleksandr I. , Wang Huicai , Cheng Xiangxin , Fu Xiaobin , Wang Jingshu , Ke Haifeng , Xia Huarong , Shen Yanbin , Bai Zhengshuai , Chen Shi , Shao Huaiyu , Chen Xiaodong , Tang Yuxin , Bao Xiaojun
Published: January 2025

Polyethylene oxide (PEO)‐based electrolytes are essential to advance all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) with high safety/energy density due to their inherent flexibility and scalability. However, the inefficient Li+ transport in PEO often leads to poor rate performance and diminished stability of the ASSLBs. The regulation of intermolecular H‐bonds is regarded as one of the most effective approaches to enable efficient Li+ transport, while the practical performances are hindered by the electrochemical instability of free H‐bond donors and the constrained mobility of highly ordered H‐bonding structures. To overcome these challenges, we develop a surface‐confined disordered H‐bond system with stable donor‐acceptor interactions to construct a loosened chain segments/ions arrangement in the bulk phase of PEO‐based electrolytes, realizing the crystallization inhibition of PEO, weak coordination of Li+ and entrapment of anions, which are conducive to efficient Li+ transport and stable Li+ deposition. The rationally designed LiFePO4‐based ASSLB demonstrates a long cycle‐life of over 400 cycles at 1.0 C and 65 °C with a capacity retention rate of 87.5 %, surpassing most of the currently reported polymer‐based ASSLBs. This work highlights the importance of confined disordered H‐bonds on Li+ transport in an all‐solid‐state battery system, paving the way for the future design of polymer‐based ASSLBs.
Clone‐Resolved Chemical Depletion of T cells via Cellular Proximity Chemistry
Authors: Wu Yunze , Deng Tao , Song Lin , Zhu Wenqi , Zhong Da , Jiao Jinbiao , Li Wannan , Zhong Lingyu , Tian Tian , Dong Lei , Li Jie P.
Published: January 2025

T cells play a pivotal role in the development of autoimmune diseases. To mitigate autoimmune inflammation without inducing global immunosuppression, it is crucial to selectively eliminate autoreactive T cell clones while preserving the normal T cell repertoire. In this study, we applied cellular proximity chemistry to develop a T‐cell depletion method with clonal precision. Using engineered dendritic cells (DCs) with surface‐bound photosensitizers, we generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) at immune synapses, leading to the targeted death of antigen‐specific T cells in close proximity. This process induces lipid oxidation in T cell membranes, triggering ferroptosis‐like cell death. The method enables the selective elimination of specific T cell clones without affecting others, in which the clonal resolution was demonstrated by TCR sequencing. Finally, we demonstrated the efficacy of this approach in a type 1 diabetes model by selectively depleting the pathogenic 8.3 T cell clone, thereby protecting islet β cells and preserving overall T cell function. This strategy offers a promising avenue for immunosuppressive therapy that targets pathogenic T cells while maintaining overall immune integrity.
Research on the Suppression of Methane Explosion by ZSM‐5 Zeolite With Different Si/Al Ratios
Authors: Wang Siqi , Hao Yongmei , Wu Zhengqi , Wu Fan , Xu Ning
Published: January 2025

To investigate the impact of single zeolite powder on methane explosion inhibition, a ZSM‐5 zeolite with a porous structure was utilized as the raw material and subjected to alkali treatment to obtain the zeolites' powers with varying Si/Al ratios. The modified powders were characterized and analyzed using SEM, XRD, EDS analysis, etc. and compared with unmodified zeolite powders regarding their explosion suppression effects. The results demonstrated that alkali‐treated zeolite powders exhibited superior explosion suppression effects, with the optimum effect achieved at the Si/Al ratio of 10.32, reducing the maximum explosion pressure by 84.24% compared to unfilled conditions. In this study, the explosion suppression effect of the explosion suppression powders includes adsorption of gases, barrier effect, and reaction with free radicals in the explosion process. Desilication increased sodium content within the zeolites; however, this content decreased as the silicon‐to‐aluminum ratio increased due to its capability to capture free radicals generated during explosions and interrupt chain reactions.
Numerical Studies on Phase Change Material–Operated Condenser and Preheater for Energy‐Efficient Refrigeration Cycle
Authors: Rajak Shyam Kumar , Ghosh Debasree
Published: January 2025

The study investigates using solid–liquid phase change materials (PCMs) as heat exchangers in energy‐efficient refrigeration systems. A modified refrigeration cycle flow model was proposed and progressively refined for better performance. Initial simulations used simplified U‐tube flow models to reduce complexity, analyzing PCM charging and discharging separately before integrating them into the modified refrigeration system. Various parameters were examined, including the mass flow rate of refrigerant R134a, inlet temperatures of hot and cold refrigerants, and the heat transfer area. The refrigerant, termed HotR, flows through the condenser, while the cooler refrigerant, ColdR, flows through the preheater. PCM acts as the condenser during charging and as the preheater during discharging. Simulation techniques such as the enthalpy‐porosity model for the PCM mushy region, the Lee model for evaporation–condensation, and the volume‐of‐fluid (VOF) multiphase model were utilized to model the PCM‐operated condenser accurately. The study offers valuable insights for optimizing PCM utilization in refrigeration cycles. It emphasizes the importance of refining charging and discharging processes to enhance system efficiency and condensation performance. Simulations showed the need for flow rate adjustments to achieve optimal condensation. Using HotR (343 K) and ColdR (263 K) inlet temperatures and a flow rate of 0.000824 kg/s, the system achieved up to 47% condensation and 25.08 K preheating with the integrated setup.