bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Causes of Dysnatremia in Cancer Patients: A Review
Authors: Rădulescu Daniela , Văcăroiu Ileana Adela , Turcu Flavia Liliana , Bogeanu Carmen
Published: June 2022

Dysnatremias occur with high incidence in cancer patients and have negative impact on quality of life, survival, hospitalization length. Both cancer and its therapy are responsible; coexisting comorbidities may also be involved. Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder and is usually multifactorial. Hypernatremia, although more rare, is associated with poorer outcome. Diagnosis of true dysnatremias may be a challenge in patients with active cancer, as they must be often differentiated from spurious dysnatremias. Assessing the extracellular volume is the first step for establishing the cause of a dysnatremia; as such hypovolemic, euvolemic and hypervolemic dysnatremias have distinct etiology. The present article briefly reviews cancer-specific and treatment-specific causes of dysnatremias.
First Record of Pterois russelii in the Sunderban Biosphere Reserve, India
Authors: Panda Pradip , Sen Arya , Mahapatra Parnasree , Kumar J. S. Yogesh
Published: June 2022

Plaintail turkeyfish, Pterois russelii Bennett, 1831 had been reported from coastal parts of West Bengal, but there is no record of this species from Sunderban Biosphere Reserve or any part of Indian mangrove ecosystems. The current communication adds P. russelii, as a new record to the ichthyofaunal diversity of the Indian Mangroves, as well as Sunderban Biosphere Reserve. The specimen was collected from the Canning fish landing area during a local survey focused on the study of mangrove-associated fishes of Sunderban. Canning is located in the Transitional zone of Sunderban Biosphere Reserve. This is the first record of P. russelii from any Indian Mangrove area.
Interface Element Accumulation‐Induced Single Ferroelectric Domain for High‐Performance Neuromorphic Synapse
Authors: Li Xiaoqi , Liu Jiaqi , Xu Fan , Ali Sajjad , Wu Han , Huang Biaohong , Deng Haoyue , Li Yizhuo , Jiang Yuxuan , Fan Zhen , Tang Yunlong , Wang Yujia , Bououdina Mohamed , Yang Teng , Hu Weijin , Zhang Zhidong
Published: February 2025

Ferroelectric (FE) synapses are promising for neuromorphic computing toward enhanced artificial intelligence systems. Nonetheless, there is a significant gap in understanding how to effectively tailor self‐polarization and its implications on synaptic device performance. Here, an approach using interfacial element accumulation is reported to tailor the self‐polarization states of BaTiO3 (BTO)/La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 (LSMO) FE heterostructure into a single domain state. This single domain configuration results are demonstrated in a gradient distribution of oxygen vacancies across the film thickness, yielding an extraordinary on/off ratio of 107 in Pt/BTO/LSMO FE diodes. This giant resistive switching enables the long‐term potentiation and long‐term depression synaptic functions of excellent linearity and symmetry (with a nonsymmetry factor as low as 0.1), leading to a supervised learning ability of the associated artificial neural network with a high pattern recognition accuracy of 95%. This work provides a simple design principle for FE single domain, which is substantial in enhancing the performance of FE synapses for neuromorphic computing.
Topotactic Reduction‐Driven Crystal Field Excitations in Brownmillerite Manganite Thin Films
Authors: Jin Feng , Fan Shiyu , Gu Mingqiang , Lv Qiming , Ge Min , Zhang Zixun , Zhang Jinfeng , Lu Jingdi , Kim Taehun , Bhartiya Vivek , Huang Zhen , Wang Lingfei , Bisogni Valentina , Pelliciari Jonathan , Wu Wenbin
Published: February 2025

Topotactic reduction of perovskite oxides offers a powerful approach for discovering novel phenomena, such as superconducting infinite‐layer nickelates and polar metallicity, and is commonly accompanied by the emergence of multiple valence states and/or complex crystal fields of transition metals. However, understanding the complex interplay between crystal chemistry, electronic structure, and physical properties at the spin‐ and orbital‐resolved levels in these reduced systems remains elusive. Here, x‐ray absorption spectroscopy, resonant inelastic x‐ray scattering (RIXS), and density functional theory calculations are used to uncover topotactic metal‐insulator transition and orbital‐specific crystal field excitations in brownmillerite La0.67Ca0.33MnO2.5 thin films. The Mn valence states are found to be Mn2+/Mn3+, along with their corresponding populations at octahedral and tetrahedral sites, which effectively weaken the Mn‐O hybridization compared to the parent perovskite phase. As a result, La0.67Ca0.33MnO2.5 films exhibit an antiferromagnetic insulating ground state. Moreover, by combining the RIXS measurements on selected single‐valence manganites, specifically MnO, LaMnO3, and CaMnO3, with orbital‐ and spin‐resolved density‐of‐states calculations, the study identifies the dd excitations of octahedrally and tetrahedrally coordinated Mn2+/Mn3+ ions, directly linking the microscopic electronic structure to the macroscopic magnetic/electrical properties.
Topological Design of Floaters with Plug‐In Functions
Authors: Liang Xiaojing , Yang Yuxi , Zheng Yan , Wang Zehao , Chen Min , Peng Bo , Wu Limin
Published: February 2025

Floaters with exposed surfaces are essential for applications in heterogeneous catalysis, microdetectors, and solar evaporation. Conventional floaters, however, rely on specific low‐density or hydrophobic materials, restricting their adaptability. This study introduces a topological design principle, enabling dense, hydrophilic materials to float stably on water. The proposed hydrophilic cellular sheet (HCS) features a water‐attractive substrate patterned with a crown‐shaped pore array, fabricated via digital light processing. These unique pores trap air effectively, providing exceptional buoyancy. The modular design of the HCS allows for versatile plug‐in functionalities by utilizing the pores as reservoirs for functional beads. The combination of multi‐HCSs enables on‐water information encryption and decryption. Furthermore, the HCS demonstrates potential as supporting devices in triboelectric nanogenerators, promising in wave energy harvesting. This work establishes a versatile platform for designing adaptable floaters with integrated functionalities, expanding their utility in areas, such as interface carriers, encryption devices, and renewable energy collection.
Nanocrystalline Perovskites for Bright and Efficient Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Jang Kyung Yeon , Chang Seong Eui , Kim Dong‐Hyeok , Yoon Eojin , Lee Tae‐Woo
Published: February 2025

Nanocrystalline perovskites have driven significant progress in metal halide perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) over the past decade by enabling the spatial confinement of excitons. Consequently, three primary categories of nanocrystalline perovskites have emerged: nanoscale polycrystalline perovskites, quasi‐2D perovskites, and perovskite nanocrystals. Each type has been developed to address specific challenges and enhance the efficiency and stability of PeLEDs. This review explores the representative material design strategies for these nanocrystalline perovskites, correlating them with exciton recombination dynamics and optical/electrical properties. Additionally, it summarizes the trends in progress over the past decade, outlining four distinct phases of nanocrystalline perovskite development. Lastly, this review addresses the remaining challenges and proposes a potential material design to further advance PeLED technology toward commercialization.
Progress in Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells: Paving the Way for Scalable Manufacturing
Authors: Kutsarov Dimitar I. , Rezaee Ehsan , Lambert Jed , Stroud Walter Tevis , Panagiotopoulos Apostolos , Silva S. Ravi P.
Published: February 2025

The urgency for a sustainable mitigation of the environmental impacts caused by climate change highlights the importance of renewable energy technologies to fight this challenge. Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) emerge as a promising alternative to traditional photovoltaic (PV) technologies due to their unprecedented increase in efficiency (currently peaking at 26.95%) and long‐term stability proven by the successful completion of industry relevant International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) testing standards. Flexible PSCs (f‐PSCs) offer significant advantages such as lightweight and high power‐per‐weight ratio, mechanical flexibility, and a high throughput roll‐to‐roll (R2R) manufacturing. These make f‐PSCs ideal for implementation in various applications areas, such as wearable electronics, portable devices, space PV, building‐ or automotive‐integrated PVs, and more. Notably, efficiencies over 23% now mark a significant milestone for f‐PSCs, demonstrating their competitiveness with traditional rigid solar panels. This review explores breakthroughs in f‐PSCs, focusing on flexible substrates, electrode materials, perovskite inks, and encapsulation strategies. It also covers recent advancements and studies of f‐PSCs fabricated by scalable deposition methods and emphasizes the importance of interfacial engineering and encapsulation in enhancing stability and durability. The review concludes with a summary of key findings, remaining challenges, and perspectives for the successful market uptake of f‐PSCs.
Harnessing Indole‐Derived Hydrazones for Enantioselective Synthesis of Pyrroloindolones via NHC‐Catalyzed Formal [3+2]‐Cycloaddition
Authors: Kowalska Justyna , Cieśliński Adam , Aleman Lara Jose Julian , Albrecht Łukasz
Published: February 2025

Pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indole derivatives are widely present in bioactive alkaloids and pharmaceuticals, with pyrroloindolones, containing a γ‐lactam fused to an indole scaffold, forming a significant class of heteroaromatic compounds due to their presence in numerous natural products and biologically active molecules. In this study, we explored the potential of indole‐derived hydrazones as 1,2‐dinucleophiles in the N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐catalyzed formal [3+2]‐cycloaddition with α‐bromo‐α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes. A broad substrate scope was investigated, revealing the versatility of the method with various aldehydes and hydrazones. Subsequent transformations of the cycloaddition products demonstrated the synthetic utility of the developed methodology, preserving the optical purity of the final products.
Tailoring Crystal Growth Regulation and Dual Passivation for Air‐Processed Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Qianyi , Li Dongyang , Li Zhiqi , Liang Qiong , Fong Patrick W. K. , Han Yu , Liu Kuan , Yu Jiangsheng , Bai Peng , Zhu Tao , Bai Yang , Yang Guang , Ren Zhiwei , Li Gang
Published: February 2025

Hybrid metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are emerging as highly competitive next‐generation photovoltaics due to their excellent performance and low production cost. However, the construction of high‐efficiency PSCs typically requires an inert nitrogen environment within a glove box, inadvertently increasing manufacturing costs and hindering the transition from lab‐scale to industrial‐scale production. In this work, an air ambient fabrication of pure α‐phase FAPbI3 PSCs with high‐efficiency and stability, utilizing a dual‐functional engineering strategy assisted by 3‐Guanidinopropionicacid (3‐GuA) is reported. 3‐GuA assists in managing excess PbI2 and promotes the formation of high‐quality FAPbI3 films via intermolecular exchange. Simultaneously, the existence of 3‐GuA minimizes the defects and stabilizes the resulting perovskite films. As a result, the ambient‐air fabricated PSCs achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.2% with negligible hysteresis and excellent stability. Additionally, these devices demonstrate superior reproducibility, offering valuable guidance for future advancements in this technology.
Lactylation‐Driven HECTD2 Limits the Response of Hepatocellular Carcinoma to Lenvatinib
Authors: Dong Runyu , Fei Yao , He Yiren , Gao Peng , Zhang Bo , Zhu Menglin , Wang Zhixiong , Wu Longfei , Wu Shuai , Wang Xiaoming , Cai Juan , Chen Zhiqiang , Zuo Xueliang
Published: February 2025

Drug resistance remains a major hurdle for the therapeutic efficacy of lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely undetermined. Unbiased proteomic screening is performed to identify the potential regulators of lenvatinib resistance in HCC. Patient‐derived organoids, patient‐derived xenograft mouse models, and DEN/CCl4 induced HCC models are constructed to evaluate the effects of HECTD2 both in vitro and in vivo. HECTD2 is found to be highly expressed in lenvatinib‐resistant HCC cell lines, patient tissues, and patient‐derived organoids and xenografts. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that overexpression of HECTD2 limits the response of HCC to lenvatinib treatment. Mechanistically, HECTD2 functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase of KEAP1, which contributes to the degradation of KEAP1 protein. Subsequently, the KEAP1/NRF2 signaling pathway initiates the antioxidative response of HCC cells. Lactylation of histone 3 on lysine residue 18 facilitates the transcription of HECTD2. Notably, a PLGA‐PEG nanoparticle‐based drug delivery system is synthesized, effectively targeting HECTD2 in vivo. The NPs achieved tumor‐targeting, controlled‐release, and biocompatibility, making them a promising therapeutic strategy for mitigating lenvatinib resistance. This study identifies HECTD2 as a nanotherapeutic target for overcoming lenvatinib resistance, providing a theoretical basis and translational application for HCC treatment.
Targeting USP1 Potentiates Radiation‐Induced Type I IFN‐Dependent Antitumor Immunity by Enhancing Oligo‐Ubiquitinated SAR1A‐Mediated STING Trafficking and Activation
Authors: Zhou Weilin , Zhao Yuxuan , Qin Wenjing , Wu Weijian , Liao Chenyang , Zhang Yiqiu , Yang Xingli , Chen Xue , Wang Youqiao , Kang Yushan , Wu Jiaxin , Zhao Jiaojiao , Quan Junmin , Wang Xuecen , Bu Xianzhang , Yue Xin
Published: February 2025

The magnitude of Type I interferon (IFN) mediated innate immune response within the tumor microenvironment (TME) critically influences the effectiveness of radiotherapy. Unfortunately, due to a myriad of resistance mechanisms, the double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA) signals produced by tumor cells postradiotherapy often induce a diminished response from immune cells. Through chemical screening targeting deubiquitinating enzymes, we identified USP1 (Ubiquitin Specific Peptidase 1) inhibitor as an enhancer of post‐radiotherapy dsDNA responses. Mechanistically, within the context of immune‐stimulatory cells in TME, USP1 serves as a suppressor in the stress‐mediated stages of the cGAS (Cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase) ‐STING (Stimulator of interferon genes protein) signaling pathway, specifically affecting the trafficking of STING from endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi apparatus. It is elucidated that SAR1A (Secretion associated Ras related GTPase 1A) requires K27‐linked oligo‐ubiquitination to assemble the STING‐COP‐II (Coat protein II) transport complex for STING trafficking. USP1 counteracts this activation by removing SAR1A ubiquitination, thereby blocking STING trafficking and activation. Consequently, pharmacological USP1 inhibition using ML323 sustains SAR1A ubiquitination and COP‐II complex formation, significantly enhancing STING trafficking and subsequent Type I IFN production. This intervention substantially amplifies radiotherapy‐induced immune activation in the TME, providing a strategic approach to overcome therapeutic resistance and synergize radiotherapy with immunotherapies.
Interface‐Confined Catalytic Synthesis of Anisotropic Covalent Organic Framework Nanofilm for Ultrafast Molecular Sieving
Authors: Tang Jiahao , Liao Yu , Pan Zhenxiang , Fang Songjun , Tang Mingxiu , Shao Lu , Han Gang
Published: February 2025

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as prominent membrane materials for efficiently fractionating organic molecules and ions due to their unique pore structure. However, the fabrication of free‐standing COF nanofilms with high crystallinity remains an arduous undertaking, and feasible methods that can enable precise control over the film microstructure are barely reported. This work conceives an exquisite interface‐confined catalytic strategy to prepare Tp‐BD(OH)2 COF nanofilm with an anisotropic structure analogously to conventional polymeric membranes. Experimental data and molecular simulations reveal that the hydroxyl groups on the framework substantially capture and anchor the acid catalyst through hydrogen bonding interactions at the incipient stage of interfacial polycondensation, instigating confined catalysis and self‐termination reaction at the interface. The distinctive asymmetric structure endows the Tp‐BD(OH)2 COF nanofilm with a record‐breaking pure water permeance of 525.3 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 and unprecedented dye/salt selectivity of 648.6, surpassing other reported COF films and state‐of‐the‐art nanofiltration membranes, as well as enduring structural durability and chemical stability. The implemented interface‐confined catalysis strategy opens up a new avenue for regulating the COF nanofilm microstructure and holds broad prospects for the rational design of high‐performance membranes for sustainable water purification and treatment.
Design of Aromatic Interaction Networks in a Protein Cage Modulated by Fluorescent Ligand Binding
Authors: Hishikawa Yuki , Suzuki Taiga , Maity Basudev , Noya Hiroki , Yoshizawa Michito , Asanuma Asuka , Katagiri Yuri , Abe Satoshi , Nagatoishi Satoru , Tsumoto Kouhei , Ueno Takafumi
Published: February 2025

Dynamic behavior of proteins, such as orientation changes of aromatic residues, plays an important role in controlling biomolecular functions. Protein design that can precisely control such dynamic behavior at the atomic level is a challenging issue. The study reports the development of a system capable of orientational changes of aromatic side chains upon ligand binding. Aromatic pockets are constructed on the inner surfaces of protein cages to bind polycyclic aromatic fluorescent molecules to the targeted position by π–π stacking interactions. X‐ray crystal structural analysis indicated the cooperative orientation changes of the aromatic clusters around the pocket triggered by the ligand binding. A comparison of various ligands shows that the movement of aromatic clusters can be controlled depending on the ligand structures. Fluorescence quantum yield and fluorescence lifetime are enhanced due to isolation of the fluorescent molecules in an aromatic pocket. These findings provide an understanding of the unique molecular behavior and fluorescence properties of ligands due to the assembly of aromatic residues and a guideline for developing dynamically controlled supramolecular biomaterials.
Dual‐Targeted Protein MRI Contrast Agent for Early Detection of Micrometastases
Authors: Hu Ruofan , Wang Zhiyang , Shen Tinghui , Yang Qianwen , Chen Weizhi , Jiang Xiqun
Published: February 2025

Tumor metastasis accounts for the major portion of cancer‐related deaths. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a valuable imaging modality for tumor diagnosis in clinical applications, offering detailed soft tissue images with excellent spatial resolution and good biosafety. However, the low sensitivity and the lack of specificity to disease sites limit the application of MRI contrast agents in early and precise detection of small primary and metastatic cancers. Therefore, there is an urgent need for innovative MRI contrast agents with enhanced relaxivity, target ability, and pharmacokinetics to improve imaging sensitivity and widen the detection window in the meantime. Here, we reported a dual‐targeting protein MRI contrast agent (EPR‐DTPA‐Gd) fused by a nanobody against epidermal growth factor receptor 1 (EGFR), integrin αvβ3‐binding cyclic nonapeptide, and elastin‐like polypeptide. We found that this protein contrast agent exhibited high sensitivity and specificity for the tumor overexpressed EGFR and integrin αvβ3 in MRI. Furthermore, EPR‐DTPA‐Gd had high longitudinal relaxation rate (r1) (68.76 mM−1 s−1 per molecule) and an improved pharmacokinetics behavior for tumor imaging. Using T1‐weighted imaging, EPR‐DTPA‐Gd successfully detected a series of early metastases with the smallest 0.012 mm2 (213 µm × 58 µm) in a liver metastasis model of human cervical carcinoma HeLa cells, which cannot be detected by the clinically approved T1‐weighted contrast agent. The heightened detection sensitivity intrinsic to EPR‐DTPA‐Gd facilitates precise imaging of tumor lesions, supporting sophisticated image‐guided interventions and early management in high‐risk patient cohorts.
Jesaconitine monitoring in a case of severe aconitum poisoning with torsade de pointes treated via extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Tomita Yoshitaka , Suzuki Keisuke , Kaizaki‐Mitsumoto Asuka , Hattori‐Usami Natsumi , Numazawa Satoshi , Kikuchi Kazuki , Inoue Gen , Miyamoto Kazuyuki , Yagi Masaharu , Dohi Kenji
Published: February 2025

Background

Aconitum poisoning can cause severe arrhythmias. We report, for the first time, the detailed blood and urine concentrations of four aconitine alkaloids in a male patient in his 20s who ingested aconite roots with suicidal intent.

Case Presentation

The patient developed refractory torsade de pointes (TdP) and required veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. His TdP resolved 7 h after arrival, with sinus rhythm returning within 12 h. The patient was discharged 6 days later. Subsequent measurements of the four alkaloids over time showed that jesaconitine had the highest serum concentration, with the patient's sinus rhythm returning when the jesaconitine concentration was less than 1 ng/mL.

Conclusion

This report provides valuable insights into the disposition of aconitine alkaloids during severe intoxication. The changes in jesaconitine concentrations over time correlate with clinical symptoms, suggesting that these levels could guide treatment decisions in patients with severe Aconitum poisoning.
Crystal‐Facet‐Controlled Internal Electric Field in MOF/COF Heterojunction towards Efficient Photocatalytic Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Chu Xiaoyu , Liu Shikai , Luan Bing-Bing , Zhang Ying , Xi Yuming , Shao Lu-Hua , Zhang Feng-Ming , Lan Ya-Qian
Published: February 2025

Covalently integrating two type of crystalline porous materials, metal organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs), to form heterostructure photocatalysts inheriting their structural merits has shown inherent advantages in hydrogen evolution reaction. However, how to control the internal electric field in aimed MOF/COF heterojunction to achieve an improved photocatalytic activity is still ambiguous. Herein, for the first time, we report a rational control of the internal electric field in MOF/COF heterojunction by engineering the crystal facet of MOFs to achieve enhanced photocatalytic overall water splitting (OWS) activity. A new type of covalently connected MOF/COF photocatalytic system based on NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti) and TpBpy‐COF was synthesized. As confirmed, the exposed crystal facet of MOFs greatly affected the resultant activity of MOF/COF system. The combination of decahedron NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti) and TpBpy‐COF shows an optimal OWS activity with the H2 and O2 evolution rates of 331.6 and 165.7 μmol g−1 h−1 under visible light, respectively, which is the best performance in COFs or COF‐based photocatalyst at present. The great influence of formed anisotropic facets on internal electric field of the S‐scheme MOF/COF heterojunction interface is fully confirmed by various characterizations, and the active crystal facet of NH2‐MIL‐125(Ti) for water oxidation reaction is further proved.
Super‐Concentrated Alkali Hydroxide Electrolytes for Rechargeable Zn Batteries
Authors: Ma Yilin , Huang Jiajia , Gao Shengyong , Li Liangyu , Yi Zhibin , Xiao Diwen , Chan Cheuk Kai Kevin , Wang Bin , Pan Ding , CHEN Qing
Published: February 2025

Increasing the salt concentration of an electrolyte to over 10 M brings new solute‐solvent interactions that define an emerging class of super‐concentrated electrolytes for rechargeable batteries. To this class we introduce a super‐concentrated alkaline electrolyte. Nearly saturated with KOH (at 15 M), the aqueous solution displays a broad electrochemical stability window (>2.5 V on Au) while retaining an exceptionally high ionic conductivity (>0.27 S/cm at 25 °C). Without a solid‐electrolyte interphase, we can confirm the role of electron transfer kinetics in determining the stability as opposed to the thermodyanmic effect computed based on activity coefficients. The compositionally simple solution also allows spectroscopies and ab‐initio molecular dynamics simulation to identify a novel mechanism of OH‐ structural diffusion, where unlike the conventional Grotthuss mechanism through hydrogen‐bond networks, electrostatic forces sustain proton hopping and break the common stability‐conductivity tradeoff. A high ZnO solubility in the electrolyte further mitigate the issue of passivation when a Zn anode is deeply discharged. These unique properties enable a NiOOH||Zn battery to deliver a cumulative capacity >10 Ah/cm2 at 40 mA/cm2 to meet practical needs of safe, inexpensive energy storage.
Ultrathin Polymersomes with Controllable Light‐Responsivity via Adjusting the Electronic Effect from Para‐Substituents of Azobenzene
Authors: Sun Zichao , Xu Zejiang , Ding Mingyu , Wang Liquan , Zhao Lin , Sui Pengliang , Li Guodong , Jin Haibao , Zhou Yongfeng , Lin Shaoliang
Published: February 2025

Achieving ultrathin polymersomes (UTPSs) with controllable light‐responsive kinetics poses a prospective strategy to address the growing demands of intelligent and miniature systems, but it remains challenging. Herein, we reported the self‐assembly of numerous side‐chain‐type amphiphilic alternating azocopolymers (AAACs) into a series of UTPSs with diameters spanning 210‐270 nm and ultrathin vesicular thickness spanning 1.91‐2.14 nm. The light‐triggered reversible size transitions for these UTPSs are rendered by the photo‐isomerization of azobenzene moiety upon alternating irradiation with UV and visible light. The systematical isomerization kinetic study proved that the light‐responsive rate of distinct UTPSs was highly dependent on the electronic effect of para‐substituents of azobenzenes within AAACs. Notably, the rate constant of electron‐withdrawn nitro‐modified UTPSs was 6.7 times greater than that of electron‐donated hydroxyl‐modified UTPSs. The proof‐of‐concept cargo release activity for different UTPSs was evaluated using a hydrophilic model drug of methylene blue (MB), with a light‐controllable releasing performance that highly depended on the para‐substituent‐induced light‐responsive kinetics. Our work offers an innovative strategy to fabricate stimuli‐responsive UTPSs with a controllable responsive performance for the targeted applications in bionanotechnology.
Hybrid closed loop technology in emergency surgery in a person with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Afridi H. , Olsen P. , Levy N. , Dhatariya K.
Published: February 2025

Management of type 1 diabetes is constantly evolving. Hybrid closed loop technology is replacing multiple dose insulin and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusions as the preferred manner for managing type 1 diabetes in the community. Currently, there are no case reports or clinical guidelines to instruct practitioners on the safe peri‐operative use of hybrid closed loop technology for patients requiring emergency surgery. In our case report we present the case of a 15‐year‐old male patient who required emergency surgery and wanted to continue the benefits of his hybrid closed loop technology in managing his diabetes peri‐operatively. In addition, we discuss the strategies we used to overcome the issue of the continuous glucose monitor misreading paracetamol as glucose. Finally, we present the rationale for the guidance of safe peri‐operative use of hybrid closed loop technology. This may allow other patients to benefit from continuation of hybrid closed loop technology during emergency surgery.
Helical Polymers as Drug Delivery Carriers.
Authors: Wu Zong-Quan , Li Ting-Ting , Zong Yang , Chen Zheng , Luo Jing , Liu Na
Published: February 2025

With the continuous development of nanotechnology, a variety of novel materials have been used to constitute drug carriers and have attracted much attention. Among them, helical polymers have great potential for application as drug carriers. Helical polymers improve the efficiency of drug use due to their helical structure and interaction with drug molecules. Therefore, different helical polymers are designed to diversify their functions, such as controlling the drug release rate, good biocompatibility and degradability, and certain cell barrier penetration ability for specific diseases. This review surveys the advancements in research concerning the diverse types of drug carriers constructed from helical polymers for their practical use in biological and medical applications. The use of helical polymers as drug carriers is discussed and evaluated in terms of their structural design and monitoring of drug loading or disease outcome, as well as the future challenges and potential applications of helical polymers.
Pretreatment of Ru/TiO2 Catalysts Influences Activity and Selectivity in CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Baade Göran , Güttel Robert
Published: February 2025

The need for a pretreatment strategy for CO and CO2 hydrogenation is already known for Fe‐ and Co‐based Fischer‐Tropsch catalysts but is unexplored for Ru‐based catalysts. The aim of this work was to establish a starting point from which to systematically develop pretreatment strategies to maximize the activity, selectivity, and stability of the catalyst. The results show that all pretreatment strategies tested here are equal or better than no pretreatment for the conversion of CO2. The pretreatment with CO/H2 synthesis gas can double the activity, but the advantage is diminished over 80 h of experiment. In contrast, the use of dilute O2 significantly increases the selectivity towards methane while pure CO2 significantly increases the selectivity to higher hydrocarbons.
Advanced Characterization Techniques for Probing Redox Reaction Mechanisms in High‐Performance Li–S Batteries
Authors: Chen Shilin , Ma Chengwei , Li Zhongming , Zhou Jiangqi
Published: February 2025

The development of high‐performance energy storage systems requires several key attributes, including high energy and power density, cost‐effectiveness, safety, and environmental sustainability. Among the various potential technologies, lithium–sulfur batteries stand out as a promising contender for future energy storage solutions due to their exceptional theoretical specific energy density (2600 Wh kg⁻¹) and relatively high specific capacity (1675 mAh g⁻¹). However, the commercialization of lithium–sulfur batteries faces significant challenges, such as low sulfur loading, rapid capacity degradation, and poor cycling stability. At the heart of these issues lies a limited understanding of the complex conversion chemistry involved in lithium–sulfur batteries. In recent years, significant progress has been made in elucidating these reaction mechanisms, thanks to the use of both ex situ and in situ characterization techniques. Methods such as optical spectroscopy, time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, synchrotron X‐ray, and neural network analysis have demonstrated great potential in uncovering the redox processes of lithium polysulfides and their underlying mechanisms, significantly advancing research in lithium–sulfur battery systems. This review focuses on the major advancements in lithium–sulfur batteries research, particularly in the study of electrocatalytic mechanisms using emerging characterization techniques. We discuss key aspects of accurately revealing the mechanisms of lithium–sulfur batteries through these advanced diagnostic methods, as well as the main challenges these techniques face. Finally, we explore the future prospects of lithium–sulfur battery commercialization.
Harmonizing HTA Evidence Needs and Expectations: Challenges and Opportunities to Improve Evidence Generation, Ensure Access and Affordability
Authors: Emond Sarah K. , Goettsch Wim G. , Ollendorf Daniel A.
Published: February 2025

Conducting high‐quality health technology assessments requires high‐quality evidence. With evolving regulatory standards for faster approval of new pharmaceutical products, health technology practitioners often find that the evidence base available to inform their work is lacking. This review article provides case examples of how health technology assessors have grappled with this tension, from the United States and European perspective, including experiences with new therapies for large populations, such as Alzheimer's disease, and gene therapies for ultra‐rare conditions. The article concludes by offering some potential policy solutions that can meet the goals of robust evidence generation, patient access, and system affordability, including reimbursement with evidence development, outcomes‐based contracts, and other types of managed entry agreements.
β‐Catenin localization in the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi suggests an ancestral role in cell adhesion and nuclear function
Authors: Walters Brian M. , Guttieres Lucas J. , Goëb Mayline , Marjenberg Stanley J. , Martindale Mark Q. , Wikramanayake Athula H.
Published: February 2025

Background

The emergence of multicellularity in animals marks a pivotal evolutionary event, which was likely enabled by molecular innovations in the way cells adhere and communicate with one another. β‐Catenin is significant to this transition due to its dual role as both a structural component in the cadherin–catenin complex and as a transcriptional coactivator involved in the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. However, our knowledge of how this protein functions in ctenophores, one of the earliest diverging metazoans, is limited.

Results

To study β‐catenin function in the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi, we generated affinity‐purified polyclonal antibodies targeting Mlβ‐catenin. We then used this tool to observe β‐catenin protein localization in developing Mnemiopsis embryos. In this article, we provide evidence of consistent β‐catenin protein enrichment at cell–cell interfaces in Mnemiopsis embryos. Additionally, we found β‐catenin enrichment in some nuclei, particularly restricted to the oral pole around the time of gastrulation. The Mlβ‐catenin affinity‐purified antibodies now provide us with a powerful reagent to study the ancestral functions of β‐catenin in cell adhesion and transcriptional regulation.

Conclusions

The localization pattern of embryonic Mlβ‐catenin suggests that this protein had an ancestral role in cell adhesion and may have a nuclear function as well.
Normalization: How Organizations Socialize Newcomers to Make the Extraordinary Seem Ordinary
Authors: Ashforth Blake E.
Published: February 2025

How does an organization take a raw recruit and have them dispose of bombs, slaughter animals, or work in polar research stations? I argue that the answer is through socializing them so that they come to view the extraordinary as more ordinary. This “normalization” typically entails: (1) setting the context by creating a strong situation in the form of a social cocoon with high normative control; (2) setting the content by providing a clear frame and ideology, conveyed through various forms of discourse; and (3) setting the process of socialization in motion by recruiting and selecting promising individuals and subjecting them to synergistic combinations of divestiture and investiture and of incrementalism and immersion, routinizing the work, and facilitating stress coping. These practices are mutually reinforcing such that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. The outcome is newcomers who can take in stride and accomplish what may have once seemed unthinkable. However, the socialization process is largely the same whether the goals are socially desirable (e.g., pursuing a grand challenge) or socially undesirable (e.g., extremism), and whether the means are socially desirable (most work) or undesirable (e.g., “dirty work”). I conclude with a discussion of the ethical implications of normalizing, a summary of common managerial practices for normalizing, and directions for future research.
Optimization of Argon Gas Flow Rate for High‐Quality Germanium Crystal Growth in Czochralski Method
Authors: Hadidchi Sanaz , Tavakoli Mohammad Hossein
Published: February 2025

The quality of germanium crystals grown using the Czochralski method critically depends on growth conditions, particularly the flow rate of inert gases. Despite its importance, the impact of argon gas flow rate on the thermal field, melt convection, and resultant crystal quality has not been comprehensively studied. To bridge this gap, we employed computational fluid dynamics and finite element method analysis to investigate argon flow rates ranging from 1 to 30 L/min. Our results reveal that increasing the argon flow rate improves not only crystal cooling but also heightens thermal stress by approximately 15% and dislocation density by 25%, with significant freezing at the melt–crucible interface for higher rates. These findings suggest that gas flow rate optimization is key to minimizing defects and enhancing crystal quality. This study provides novel insights into the thermal and flow dynamics within a Czochralski germanium growth setup, offering practical guidance for semiconductor manufacturing.
White Matter Hyperintensities: Cerebral Small‐Vessel Diseases and White Matter Microstructural Impairments
Authors: Huang Hui , Song Wei , Wang Pengyu , Zhu Ye , Zheng Lei , Shen Chenzhen , Xu Hui , Qiu Jianfeng
Published: February 2025

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are very widespread in older adults and are imaging features of both cerebral small‐vessel disease and white matter microstructural impairments. Recent studies have demonstrated a close association between WMH and some common diseases in older adults, including Alzheimer's disease and hypertension. Thus, studies of WMH are important for avoiding the occurrence of these diseases and improving the health status of older adults. This review summarizes the literature relating to WMH in terms of epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathogenesis, imaging features, and therapy. It also analyzes the limitations of present studies and provides perspectives on future directions.
Implementation of a novel insulin infusion calculator in the electronic health record medication administration record: Assessing efficacy and safety in intensive care unit patients
Authors: King Kevin , Chen Alyssa , Willner Marc , Ketz Jeff , Palm Nicole
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Intravenous insulin infusions are recommended for control of hyperglycemia in critically ill patients. Institutions have adopted nurse‐driven titration protocols for management of infusions; however, optimal integration within electronic health records (EHRs) has lagged. Data is lacking regarding clinical pharmacist interventions in standardizing and implementing decision support with electronic nomograms.

Methods

This multicenter cohort study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of implementing an EHR medication administration record (MAR) calculator for insulin infusion in 29 hospital intensive care units (ICUs). Outcomes were evaluated before and after implementation of the EHR MAR calculator (April 12–June 5, 2023; implementation on May 9, 2023). The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of blood glucose values within a target range of 140–179 mg/dL. Secondary outcomes included the proportions of hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic glucose values.

Results

A total of 206 patients were included: 109 in the pre‐group and 97 in the post‐group. More patients in the pre‐group received corticosteroids (40.4% vs. 22.7%). The EHR MAR calculator implementation showed a significant increase in glucose values within the target range (35.5% post‐implementation vs. 31.0% pre‐implementation, p = 0.02). There were no significant differences in the occurrence of hypoglycemic events, but the rate of hyperglycemia decreased (549 [43.7%] post‐implementation, 601 [48.6%] pre‐implementation, p = 0.02).

Discussion

This is the first study describing implementation of an integrated MAR calculator that automatically imports blood glucose results used for calculations in the MAR and does not rely on manual input by the nurse. The study demonstrated the benefits of transitioning from a paper‐based nomogram to an EHR MAR calculator for insulin infusion management in critically ill patients in improving time in target range and reducing the proportion of hyperglycemic values. Pharmacists provided standardization, validation, education, and assisted with implementation to streamline transitions of care, monitoring methods, and drug‐laboratory interaction concerns.
Leg Muscle Volume, Intramuscular Fat and Force Generation: Insights From a Computer‐Vision Model and Fat‐Water MRI
Authors: Smith Andrew C. , Laguna Javier Muñoz , Wesselink Eddo O. , Scott Zachary E. , Jenkins Hazel , Thornton Wesley A. , Wasielewski Marie , Connor Jordan , Delp Scott , Chaudhari Akshay S. , Parrish Todd B. , Mackey Sean , Elliott James M. , Weber Kenneth A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Maintaining skeletal muscle health (i.e., muscle size and quality) is crucial for preserving mobility. Decreases in lower limb muscle volume and increased intramuscular fat (IMF) are common findings in people with impaired mobility. We developed an automated method to extract markers of leg muscle health, muscle volume and IMF, from MRI. We then explored their associations with age, body mass index (BMI), sex and voluntary force generation.

Methods

We trained (n = 34) and tested (n = 16) a convolutional neural network (CNN) to segment five muscle groups in both legs from fat‐water MRI to explore muscle volume and IMF. In 95 participants (70 females, 25 males, mean age [standard deviation] = 34.2 (11.2) years, age range = 18–60 years), we explored associations between the CNN measures and age, BMI and sex, and then in a subset of 75 participants, we explored associations between CNN muscle volume, CNN IMF and maximum plantarflexion force after controlling for age, BMI and sex.

Results

The CNN demonstrated high test accuracy (Sørensen–Dice index ≥ 0.87 for all muscle groups) and reliability (muscle volume ICC2,1 ≥ 0.923 and IMF ICC2,1 ≥ 0.815 for all muscle groups) compared to manual segmentation. CNN muscle volume was positively associated with BMI across all muscle groups (p ≤ 0.001) but not with age (p ≥ 0.406). CNN IMF was positively associated with age for all muscle groups (p ≤ 0.015), and CNN IMF was positively associated with BMI for all muscle groups (p ≤ 0.043) except the right deep posterior compartment (p = 0.130). Males had greater CNN volume of all muscle groups (p < 0.001) except the left and right gastrocnemius (p ≥ 0.067). Gastrocnemius CNN IMF was greater in females (p ≤ 0.043). Plantarflexion force was positively associated with lateral compartment, soleus and gastrocnemius CNN volume (p ≤ 0.025) but not with CNN IMF (p ≥ 0.358).

Conclusions

Computer‐vision models combined with fat‐water MRI permits the non‐invasive, automatic assessment of leg muscle volume and IMF. Associations with age, BMI and sex are important when interpreting these measures. Markers of leg muscle health may enhance our understanding of the relationship between muscle health, force generation and mobility.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02157038
Kinematic analysis of the sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular and scapulothoracic joint demonstrates significant multiplanar alterations in acromioclavicular injuries with each consecutive ligamentous injury during movements of the shoulder girdle: A whole‐cadaver study
Authors: Braeckevelt Thomas , Peeters Ian , Palmans Tanneke , De Wilde Lieven , Van Tongel Alexander
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries, the kinematical interplay between the AC ligament, coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments and deltotrapezial fascia (DTF) during motions of the shoulder complex is disturbed. This study assessed kinematic alterations of sternoclavicular (SC), scapulothoracic (ST) and AC joint motion during humerothoracic and ST movements in AC injuries.

Methods

Shoulder girdle motion was evaluated in 14 cadaveric shoulders in 4 conditions, consisting of an intact state and AC injuries of increasing severity by sequentially sectioning the AC and CC ligaments and DTF. Joint motions were registered during humerothoracic elevation and protraction. An optical navigation system measured three‐dimensional rotations and translations in the SC, ST and AC joints.

Results

Sectioning of the AC ligament increased inferior and anterior AC translation with a concomitant increase of scapular protraction. The clavicle rotated to an overall more posteriorly rotated position. Sectioning of the CC ligaments increased lateral rotation and protraction of the scapula relative to the clavicle with a concomitant inferior translation of the acromion. Also, manifest overriding of the clavicle is noted due to instability in the superoinferior and anteroposterior axes. The clavicle rotated back to an overall more anteriorly rotated position, similar to the native condition. Sectioning of the DTF further increased protraction of the scapula relative to the clavicle, while a further medial translation of the acromion under the clavicle is observed.

Conclusion

The AC ligament affects anteroposterior stability, while the CC ligaments disturb stability in a superoinferior and mediolateral direction. All ligaments influence clavicular axial rotation. The DTF exacerbates alterations caused by the CC ligaments. Multiplanar decoupling results in overriding of the clavicle observed after sectioning the CC ligaments. Each sectioned ligament significantly increases scapular protraction. These findings guide further advancements in (non)surgical treatment of AC injuries to restore optimal function.

Level of Evidence

N/A.