bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiencing Health in the Context of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Schmidt Betty J. , Brauer Donna J. , Peden-McAlpine Cynthia
Published: June 2003

The purpose of this study was to explicate the health experience of persons with rheumatoid arthritis who manifest a strong sense of well-being. Five women and three men participated in unstructured interviews in order to answer the research question, What are the subplots that emerge in the descriptions of health given by persons with rheumatoid arthritis? A hermeneutic method was used to analyze the transcripts. Three subplots emerged: (a) The evolving—not knowing and then knowing something, but never really knowing, (b) the reframing, and (c) the relational fugue. The findings, including creation of healing spaces and an evolving relationship with assistive devices, provide evidence of turning points in the health process and are suggestive of a strong sense of well-being as a manifestation of a reorganized pattern.
Daily variations of endolymph composition: relationship with the otolith calcification process in trout
Authors: Borelli G. , Guibbolini M. E. , Mayer-Gostan N. , Priouzeau F. , De Pontual H. , Allemand D. , Puverel S. , Tambutte E. , Payan P.
Published: June 2003

Ionic and organic parameters of the otolith calcification process in the trout Oncorhynchus mykiss were analysed in plasma and endolymph over the day:night cycle. Plasma pH remained constant and total CO2concentration was significantly lower (by 21%) during the day than at night. Calcifying parameters (total CO2, total calcium concentration) were measured in the proximal and distal endolymphs and were unchanged in the latter during the day:night cycle, but fluctuated in the former. Non-collagenous protein and collagen concentrations in endolymph were higher(1.5- and 10-fold, respectively) during the day than at night. As there was no change in total calcium concentration, we propose that Ca2+increases during the dark period and was maximal by the end of the night when the total CO2 concentration has also increased (by 14%). Measurements of endolymph pH in situ revealed significant differences between samples from proximal and distal endolymph (7.38 and 7.87,respectively), but no variation between values obtained during the day and at night. Thus, the saturation state of aragonite (Sa) in the proximal endolymph should fluctuate around unity during the day:night cycle, and CaCO3precipitation should occur when supersaturation is reached. The electrophoretic pattern of proximal endolymph showed variations in both major and minor components. Immunoblotting of endolymph, using a rabbit antiserum raised against the otolith soluble organic matrix revealed an increase in the expression of two proteins (65 kDa and 75 kDa) during the day period. We propose that organic matrix and calcium carbonate deposition on the otolith vary antiphasically: organic matrix deposition begins by the end of the day period, when the concentration of organic precursors is maximal in the endolymph, whereas CaCO3 precipitation starts once the solubility of CaCO3 is exceeded.
Tissue‐specific expression of two human Cav1.2 isoforms under the control of distinct 5′ flanking regulatory elements
Authors: Pang Li , Koren Gideon , Wang Zhiguo , Nattel Stanley
Published: June 2003

Transcriptional regulation may be important for L‐type Ca2+ channel α1C subunit (Cav1.2) gene expression. In this study, we found two human Cav1.2 isoforms, one strongly and selectively expressed in heart and the other with apparently ubiquitous expression. The promoter for the cardiac isoform has an ‘initiator’ sequence, and is active in neonatal cardiomyocytes but not in cardiac fibroblasts, H9C2 cells, human aorta‐vascular smooth muscle and HEK293 cells. The promoter for the ubiquitously expressed isoform is of the ‘housekeeping’ type and is active in all cell types examined. These data indicate specific expression patterns of two human Cav1.2 isoforms under the control of distinct 5′ flanking regulatory sequences.
Tetanus in the cat—an unusual presentation
Authors: De Risio L , Gelati A
Published: June 2003

Tetanus is rare in cats owing to their innate resistance. Clinical diagnosis may not be obvious in the early stages of the disease when characteristic signs of generalised tetanus are absent. However, the history of a penetrating/neglected wound and the presence of persistent involuntary muscle rigidity in a mentally alert animal should always lead to the suspicion of tetanus. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are the keys to a successful outcome.
Intracellular pathways mediating estrogen-induced cholangiocyte proliferation in the rat
Authors: Alvaro Domenico , Onori Paolo , Metalli Veronica Drudi , Svegliati-Baroni Gianluca , Folli Franco , Franchitto Antonio , Alpini Gianfranco , Mancino Maria Grazia , Attili Adolfo Francesco , Gaudio Eugenio
Published: June 2003

The aim of this study was to explore the intracellular signaling pathways involved in the stimulatory effects of estrogens on cholangiocyte proliferation. We investigated the tyrosine kinase-receptor pathway by evaluating the protein expression of total and phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) isoform p44/p42 (e.g., extracellular signal-regulated kinase [ERK]1/2), the steroid-receptor coactivator Src and Shc (Src-homology/collagen protein). The study was performed in 3-week-old bile duct-ligated (BDL) rats, BDL rats treated with the antiestrogens, tamoxifen or Ici 182,780, and normal control rats. Proliferation was also evaluated in normal purified cholangiocytes treated with 17β estradiol in the presence or absence of tamoxifen, Ici 182,780, ERK, or Src inhibitors. After bile duct ligation, cholangiocyte proliferation was associated with a marked immunohistochemical nuclear positivity for phosphorylated (p)-ERK1/2, which was inhibited by in vivo treatment with tamoxifen or Ici 182,780. Protein expression of total and p-ERK1/2, and Shc in cholangiocytes isolated from BDL rats was markedly increased compared with controls and was inhibited by in vivo treatment with antiestrogens. In vitro, 17β estradiol-induced proliferation of isolated normal cholangiocyte was associated with increased (P < .01) protein expression of p-ERK1/2, Src, and Shc. Specific inhibitors of ER (Ici 182,780), ERK (U0125), and Src (PP2) inhibited in vitro 17β estradiol-induced cholangiocyte proliferation. In conclusion, this study showed that estrogens induced cholangiocyte proliferation by activating the Src/Shc/ERK pathway. This might suggest that pharmacologic modulation of ER, ERK, and/or Src could be proposed for the treatment of human pathology characterized by dysregulation of cholangiocyte proliferation.
Regenerative activity and liver function following partial hepatectomy in the rat using 31P-MR spectroscopy
Authors: Corbin Ian R. , Buist Richard , Volotovskyy Vyacheslav , Peeling Jim , Zhang Manna , Minuk Gerald Y.
Published: June 2003

The aim of the present study was to determine whether alterations in hepatic energy expenditure following partial hepatectomy (PHx), as documented by in vivo hepatic 31P-MRS, correlate with standard parameters of hepatic regeneration and/or liver function. In addition, we sought to determine whether changes in hepatic energy levels are proportional to the extent of hepatic resection. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (4-7 per group) underwent a 40%, 70%, or 90% PHx or sham surgeries. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) examinations were performed on each animal 24 or 48 hours thereafter. After MRS examinations, [3H]thymidine incorporation into hepatic DNA, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein expression, and serum bilirubin determinations were performed on each rat. Twenty-four hours following surgery, rats that had undergone 70% PHx had unchanged adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels but significantly lower ATP/inorganic phosphate (Pi) ratios (P < .05), whereas, at 48 hours post-PHx, both ATP and ATP/Pi levels were lower than in sham- and nonoperated controls (P < .05). Hepatic regeneration and liver dysfunction mirrored these changes; correlations existed between ATP/Pi ratios and [3H]thymidine incorporation (r = −0.61, P < .005), PCNA protein expression (r = −0.62, P < .005), and serum bilirubin (r = −0.49, P < .05). For rats that had undergone graded resections, depleted energy levels 48 hours post-PHx were proportional to the extent of resection, degree of enhanced regenerative activity, and liver dysfunction. In conclusion, 31P-MRS-generated ATP/Pi index is a noninvasive, robust determination that correlates with standard parameters of hepatic regeneration and function.
Dealing with part‐time work
Authors: Rosendaal Bastiaan W.
Published: June 2003

This paper examines the relationship between the length of the working week and the performance of employees. It looks at the influence of job features like knowledge intensity, connectivity with other people in the organisation and standardisation; and characteristics of the job environment like stability, flexibility of working schedule and the communication infrastructure. The results indicate a positive effect of shorter working times on task performance. A breaking point of minimum working hours is found between jobs, only directed to task performance and jobs in which the contextual performance and knowledge intensity play a major role.
Effect of Heat Shock and Mutations in ClpL and ClpP on Virulence Gene Expression inStreptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Kwon Hyog-Young , Kim Seung-Whan , Choi Moo-Hyun , Ogunniyi A. David , Paton James C. , Park Sin-Hee , Pyo Suhk-Neung , Rhee Dong-Kwon
Published: June 2003

Spread ofStreptococcus pneumoniaefrom the nasopharynx to other host tissues would require the organism to adapt to a variety of environmental conditions. Since heat shock proteins are induced by environmental stresses, we investigated the effect of heat shock on ClpL and ClpP synthesis and the effect ofclpLandclpPmutations on the expression of key pneumococcal virulence genes. Pulse labeling with [35S]methionine and chase experiments as well as immunoblot analysis demonstrated that ClpL, DnaK, and GroEL were stable. Purified recombinant ClpL refolded urea-denatured rhodanese in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating ClpL's chaperone activity. Although growth of theclpLmutant was not affected at 30 or 37°C, growth of theclpPmutant was severely affected at these temperatures. However, bothclpLandclpPmutants were sensitive to 43°C. Although it was further induced by heat shock, the level of expression of ClpL in theclpPmutant was high at 30°C, suggesting that ClpP represses expression of ClpL. Furthermore, theclpPmutation significantly attenuated the virulence ofS. pneumoniaein a murine intraperitoneal infection model, whereas theclpLmutation did not. Interestingly, immunoblot and real-time reverse transcription-PCR analysis demonstrated that pneumolysin and pneumococcal surface antigen A were induced by heat shock in wild-typeS. pneumoniae.Other virulence genes were also affected by heat shock andclpLandclpPmutations. Virulence gene expression seems to be modulated not only by heat shock but also by the ClpL and ClpP proteases.
Analysis of Gene Expression in Ceca ofHelicobacter hepaticus-Infected A/JCr Mice before and after Development of Typhlitis
Authors: Myles Matthew H. , Livingston Robert S. , Livingston Beth A. , Criley Jennifer M. , Franklin Craig L.
Published: June 2003

The inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, are chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The causes of these diseases remain unknown; however, prevailing theories suggest that chronic intestinal inflammation results from a dysregulated immune response to ubiquitous bacterial antigens. While a substantial body of data has been amassed describing the role of the adaptive immune system in perpetuating and sustaining inflammation, very little is known about the early signals, prior to the development of inflammation, that initiate and direct the abnormal immune response. To this end, we characterized the gene expression profile of A/JCr mice withHelicobacter hepaticus-induced typhlitis at month 1 of infection, prior to the onset of histologic disease, and month 3 of infection, after chronic inflammation is fully established. Analysis of the gene expression in ceca ofH. hepaticusinfected mice revealed 25 up-regulated and 3 down-regulated genes in the month-1 postinoculation group and 31 up-regulated and 2 down-regulated genes in the month-3 postinoculation group. Among these was a subset of immune-related genes, including interferon-inducible protein 10, monokine induced by gamma interferon, macrophage-induced protein 1 alpha, and serum amyloid A1. Semiquantitative real-time reverse transcriptase PCR confirmed the increased expression levels of these genes, as well as elevated expression of gamma interferon. To our knowledge, this is the first report profiling cecal gene expression inH. hepaticus-infected A/JCr mice. The findings of altered gene expression prior to the development of any features of pathology and the ensuing chronic disease course make this an attractive model for studying early host response to microbe-induced inflammatory bowel disease.
Activation of Toll-Like Receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4/MD2 by
Neisseria
Is Independent of Capsule and Lipooligosaccharide (LOS) Sialylation but Varies Widely among LOS from Different Strains
Authors: Pridmore Alison C. , Jarvis Gary A. , John Constance M. , Jack Dominic L. , Dower Steven K. , Read Robert C.
Published: June 2003

Lipooligosaccharide (LOS) structure and capsular polysaccharide of
Neisseria meningitidis
each greatly influence the virulence of the organism and the quality of host innate immune responses. In this study, we found that production of the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) by a human monocyte-derived cell line (THP-1) exposed to strains of
N
.
meningitidis
lacking capsule and/or with truncated LOS was similar to that elicited by the isogenic wild-type strain. These mutants also exhibited no difference in induction of the interleukin-8 (IL-8) promoter in a transfected HeLa cell system of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4/MD2 signaling. However, purified LOS from diverse strains of
Neisseria
(both
N
.
meningitidis
and
N
.
gonorrhoeae
) caused widely variant levels of IL-8 promoter induction in cells expressing MD2 that correlated with the production of TNF from THP-1 cells. These data suggest that although modification of the oligosaccharide chain of LOS and/or absence of capsule do not affect cell signaling mediated by TLR4/MD2, fine-structural differences in the LOS do influence signaling through TLR4/MD2 and, through this pathway, influence some of the proinflammatory responses elicited by
Neisseria
.
Proposed Framework for Setting Practical and Ethical Boundaries in Medicine
Authors: Hull Sarah C. , Angoff Nancy R.
Published: February 2025

This essay describes a rational and stepwise framework for considering whether to accept requests to take on extra work for physicians, especially women and minoritized physicians.
Addressing the Health Impacts of Climate Change in Older Adults
Authors: Katz Gabrielle M. , Arigoni Danielle , Rice Mary B. , Stall Nathan M.
Published: February 2025

This Viewpoint evaluates the health impacts of climate change among older adults and provides recommendations to safeguard their health and wellbeing.
Extracorporeal Blood Purification in European Pediatric Intensive Care Units
Authors: Bottari Gabriella , Buccione Emanuele , Bayrakci Benan , Briassoulis George , Carter Michael J. , Demirkol Demet , Ilia Stavroula , Morin Luc , Reiter Karl , Santiago Maria-Jose , Schlapbach Luregn J. , Slocker-Barrio Maria , Tissieres Pierre , Zaoral Tomás , Bianzina Stefania , Deep Akash
Published: February 2025

Importance

Important advances have been made in extracorporeal blood purification therapies (EBPTs) due to new technologies and biomaterials; however, the lack of established guidelines is a factor in great variability in clinical practice. This aspect is accentuated in pediatric intensive care given the small number of patients with diverse diagnoses treated with EBPT and the technical challenges in treating small children, potentiating the risk of adverse events.

Objective

To understand what experienced users of EBPT think about its relevant issues, insight that may have implications for the design of future studies, and the application of EBPTs in patient care.

Evidence Review

Literature search was conducted using the PubMed and Embase databases between January 1, 2020, and July 15, 2024, and a combination of key medical terms. A panel of experts was formed (composed of 15 authors and pediatric intensivists) to develop a consensus statement using a modified Delphi-based model between 2022 and 2024. The panel’s core team drafted the initial questionnaire, which explored EBPT use in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), including clinical indications for initiating and discontinuing use and outcomes for assessing effectiveness and safety. SurveyMonkey was used in the distribution, completion, and revision of the questionnaire, and findings were analyzed. Panelists were asked to rank answer choices. Numerical value for each ranking was translated to a percentage defining the strength of consensus (>90% agreement from panelists signifying strong consensus; <49% signifying no consensus).

Findings

A total of 116 survey responses were received from panelists from 8 European countries. Strong consensus was achieved on 6 of 24 questions and consensus (75%-90% agreement) was reached on 18 of 24 questions. According to the panelists, the continuous renal replacement therapy standard or enhanced adsorption hemofilter and plasma exchange were of interest, representing the most applied EBPTs across various applications. While evidence on hemoadsorption is growing, it remains limited.

Conclusions and Relevance

This consensus statement on EBPTs in critically ill pediatric patients was developed by an international panel of experts in areas where clinical evidence is still limited. This consensus statement could support pediatric intensivists in bedside decision-making and guide future research on EBPTs in PICUs.
Pediatric Readiness and Trauma Center Access for Children
Authors: Melhado Caroline , Hancock Canaan , Wang Haoyu , Eldin Maya M. , George Nicholas , Miller Jennifer A. , Remick Katherine E. , Patel Bhavin , Yorkgitis Brian K. , Gray Lisa , Dingeldein Michael W. , Hewes Hilary A. , Russell Katie W. , Nance Michael L. , Jensen Aaron R.
Published: February 2025

Importance

Children initially treated in a timely fashion at trauma centers with high levels of pediatric readiness have been shown to have improved survival, but children historically have had geographically disparate access to pediatric trauma center care. Considerable effort has been invested in improving pediatric readiness nationally, including the implementation of new standards to improve emergency department pediatric readiness at all trauma centers.

Objective

To assess current access to US pediatric-ready trauma center care and to estimate potential improvement in access if all high-level trauma centers had optimal pediatric readiness.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This descriptive cross-sectional study collated trauma centers from national organizational lists, state government websites, and online searches. A geospatial analysis was performed of access by pediatric patients (aged ≤18 years) to trauma centers by ground or air ambulance within 60 minutes, stratified by trauma center type and pediatric readiness status. Population density was estimated using 2020 US census data. Weighted pediatric readiness scores (wPRS) were obtained from the 2021 National Pediatric Readiness Project assessment. The data analysis was performed between April 1 and June 30, 2023.

Exposure

Access times to trauma centers.

Main Outcome and Measure

The main outcome of interest was access to a pediatric-ready trauma center, defined as a high-level pediatric trauma center (level I-II) or high-level adult trauma center (level I-III) with a wPRS of at least 93 (out of 100). Access times were calculated using previously validated methods and service network model analysis for each trauma center to census block group centroid.

Results

The analysis included 148 pediatric and 1075 high-level adult trauma centers. A total of 273 adult centers (25%) were pediatric ready. Pediatric trauma center access within 60 minutes by ground or air ambulance was available for 65% of all 74 090 665 children; 73% of children had access to a pediatric-ready trauma center within 60 minutes, and 92% had access to any high-level trauma center within 60 minutes.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that access to pediatric trauma center care is limited, even with air ambulance transport. Ensuring pediatric readiness at all high-level adult trauma centers may substantially improve access to early high-quality initial resuscitative trauma care for children.
Dielectric Regulation in Quasi‐vdW Europium Oxysulfur Compounds by Compositional Engineering for 2D Electronics
Authors: Jian Chuanyong , Yuan Jiashuai , Hong Wenting , Ju Qiankun , Cai Qian , Liu Wei
Published: February 2025

Advancing next‐generation electronics necessitates precise control of dielectric properties in 2D materials. Here, the first synthesis of novel 2D quasi‐van der Waals (vdW) europium oxysulfur (Eu2SOx) compounds, comprising hexagonal Eu₂SO₂ and tetragonal Eu₂SO₆ phases, with composition‐tunable dielectric properties, is presented. Using a homodiffusive‐controlled epitaxial growth method, materials are achieved with complementary characteristics: the hexagonal Eu₂SO₂ phase exhibits a high dielectric constant (≈30) paired with a moderate bandgap (≈4.56 eV), while the tetragonal Eu₂SO₆ phase offers a wider bandgap (≈5.62 eV) but a lower dielectric constant (≈20). The potential of these materials is demonstrated by integrating ultrathin Eu₂SO₂ nanoplates with molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) field‐effect transistors (FETs) via vdW forces. The resulting devices achieve a near‐ideal Ion/Ioff ratio (≈10⁸), minimal hysteresis (≈5.3 mV), a low subthreshold slope (≈63.5 mV dec⁻¹), and ultralow leakage current (≈10⁻¹⁴ A). These results highlight the capacity of europium oxysulfur compounds to address the trade‐off between dielectric constant and bandgap, offering tailored solutions for diverse 2D electronic applications. This work underscores the potential of composition engineering to expand the family of rare‐earth oxysulfur compounds for nanoelectronics, paving the way for innovative gate dielectrics in next‐generation devices.
The Optimized Lipid‐Modified Prodrug for CNV Treatment
Authors: Lv Xinying , Shen Jingjing , Du Xinwei , Yue Boyu , Zhang Qiang , Chang Wanwan , Miao Yu , Ji Zhaoxin , Chen Linfu , Gong Yimou , Yang Yang , Chen Qian
Published: February 2025

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a prevalent cause of vision impairment. The primary treatment for CNV involves intravitreal injections of anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor antibodies. Nevertheless, this approach still faces numerous limitations like poor patient compliance, high therapy expenditure and lack of response in some individuals. Herein, a series of anti‐neovascularization prodrugs, SU5402 (SU), modified with lipids of varying chain lengths (C12, C16, C20, C24, C28) is synthesized (SU‐C12, SU‐C16, SU‐C20, SU‐C24, SU‐C28). 1% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is used as a stabilizer to create nanoformulations of five prodrugs named SU‐C12 NPs, SU‐C16 NPs, SU‐C20 NPs, SU‐C24 NPs, SU‐C28 NPs. Among these, SU‐C20 NPs significantly prolong the retention of bioactive drug in the eye for up to 70 d. Moreover, SU‐C20 NPs demonstrate superior tissue permeability via enhanced cellular endocytosis and exocytosis. With its prolonged retention and improved penetration, SU‐C20 NPs reduce the fluorescence intensity of fundus leakage by 42.5% and the fluorescence area by 51.5% in CNV mice after four weeks, effectively inhibiting the progression of CNV. Altogether, small molecule drug SU is innovatively modified to improve its effectiveness for treating fundus neovascular diseases, proposing an alternative therapy for wet age‐related macular degeneration (wAMD).
Excessive MYC Orchestrates Macrophages induced Chromatin Remodeling to Sustain Micropapillary‐Patterned Malignancy in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Song Xuming , Pan Zehao , Zhang Yi , Yang Wenmin , Zhang Te , Wang Hui , Chen Yuzhong , Yu Xinnian , Ding Hanlin , Li Rutao , Ge Pengfei , Xu Lin , Dong Gaochao , Jiang Feng
Published: February 2025

Current understanding of micropapillary (MP)‐subtype lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains confined to biological activities and genomic landscapes. Unraveling the major regulatory programs underlying MP patterned malignancy offers opportunities to identify more feasible therapeutic targets for patients with MP LUAD. This study shows that patients with MP subtype LUAD have aberrant activation of the MYC pathway compared to patients with other subtypes. In vitro and xenograft mouse model studies reveal that MP pattern in malignancy cannot be solely due to aberrant MYC expression but requires the involvement of M2‐like macrophages. Excessively expressed MYC leads to the accumulation of M2‐like macrophages from the bone marrow, which secretes TGFβ, to induce the expression of FOSL2 in tumor cells, thereby remodeling chromatin accessibility at promoter regions of MP‐pattern genes to promote the MYC‐mediated de novo transcriptional regulation of these genes. Additionally, the MP‐pattern in malignancy can be effectively alleviated by disrupting the TGFβ‐FOSL2 axis. These findings reveal new functions for the M2‐like macrophage‐TGFβ‐FOSL2 axis in MYC‐overexpressing MP‐subtype LUAD, identifying targetable vulnerabilities in this pathway.
Tailoring the Anisotropic Oxygen Transport Properties in Bulk Ceramic Membranes Based on a Ruddlesden–Popper Oxide by Applying Magnetic Fields
Authors: Escobar Cano Giamper , Matsuda Motohide , Zhao Zhijun , Steinbach Frank , Breidenstein Bernd , Petersen Hilke , Graff Andreas , Widenmeyer Marc , Weidenkaff Anke , Feldhoff Armin
Published: February 2025

Textured Nd2NiO4+δ bulk ceramic membranes are fabricated via slip casting in a 0.9 T magnetic field generated by neodymium magnets. This process aligns the oxide grains with their easy‐magnetization c‐axis parallel to the applied magnetic field. Depending on the magnetic field's direction relative to the slip casting, grains orient either with their a,b‐plane or c‐axis parallel to the normal direction of the disk‐shaped ceramic, thus aligning with the oxygen permeation direction. Without the magnetic field, a non‐textured bulk membrane is formed. The microstructure and texture of the ceramic membranes are meticulously analyzed using advanced techniques, including X‐ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, as well as related methods. Evaluation of the texturing effect on the oxygen permeation performance shows that the a,b‐plane textured Nd2NiO4+δ bulk membrane achieves the highest oxygen permeation fluxes between 1023–1223 K. Additionally, it demonstrates impressive CO₂ stability, maintaining effective performance for at least 140 h due to preferential oxygen transport along the a,b‐plane. These characteristics make Nd2NiO4+δ an auspicious material for industrial applications as an oxygen transport membrane, outperforming more susceptible perovskite‐based materials. Magnetic alignment thus proves to be an effective method for achieving membrane texturing, enabling precise regulation of oxygen transport properties.
Powering the Future: Opportunities and Obstacles in Lead‐Halide Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Pai Narendra , Angmo Dechan
Published: February 2025

Efficiency, stability, and cost are crucial considerations in the development of photovoltaic technology for commercialization. Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are a promising third‐generation photovoltaic technology due to their high efficiency and low‐cost potential. However, the stability of organohalide perovskites remains a significant challenge. Inorganic perovskites, based on CsPbX₃ (X = Br−/I−), have garnered attention for their excellent thermal stability and optoelectronic properties comparable to those of organohalide perovskites. Nevertheless, the development of inorganic perovskites faces several hurdles, including the need for high‐temperature annealing to achieve the photoactive α‐phase and their susceptibility to transitioning into the nonphotoactive δ‐phase under environmental stressors, particularly moisture. These challenges impede the creation of high‐efficiency, high‐stability devices using low‐cost, scalable manufacturing processes. This review provides a comprehensive background on the fundamental structural, physical, and optoelectronic properties of inorganic lead‐halide perovskites. It discusses the latest advancements in fabricating inorganic PSCs at lower temperatures and under ambient conditions. Furthermore, it highlights the progress in state‐of‐the‐art inorganic devices, particularly those manufactured in ambient environments and at reduced temperatures, alongside simultaneous advancements in the upscaling and stability of inorganic PSCs.
Machine Learning‐Enabled Drug‐Induced Toxicity Prediction
Authors: Bai Changsen , Wu Lianlian , Li Ruijiang , Cao Yang , He Song , Bo Xiaochen
Published: February 2025

Unexpected toxicity has become a significant obstacle to drug candidate development, accounting for 30% of drug discovery failures. Traditional toxicity assessment through animal testing is costly and time‐consuming. Big data and artificial intelligence (AI), especially machine learning (ML), are robustly contributing to innovation and progress in toxicology research. However, the optimal AI model for different types of toxicity usually varies, making it essential to conduct comparative analyses of AI methods across toxicity domains. The diverse data sources also pose challenges for researchers focusing on specific toxicity studies. In this review, 10 categories of drug‐induced toxicity is examined, summarizing the characteristics and applicable ML models, including both predictive and interpretable algorithms, striking a balance between breadth and depth. Key databases and tools used in toxicity prediction are also highlighted, including toxicology, chemical, multi‐omics, and benchmark databases, organized by their focus and function to clarify their roles in drug‐induced toxicity prediction. Finally, strategies to turn challenges into opportunities are analyzed and discussed. This review may provide researchers with a valuable reference for understanding and utilizing the available resources to bridge prediction and mechanistic insights, and further advance the application of ML in drugs‐induced toxicity prediction.
A Soft Robotic Textile‐Actuated Anthropomorphic Artificial Shoulder Mechanism
Authors: Sharma Bibhu , Davies James , Nicotra Emanuele , Ji Adrienne , Zhu Kefan , Phan Phuoc Thien , Nguyen Chi Cong , Hoang Trung Thien , Wan Jingjing , Pruscino Patrick , Phan Hoang‐Phuong , Lovell Nigel H. , Do Thanh Nho
Published: February 2025

Replicating the human shoulder in anthropomorphic systems is notoriously challenging due to its complex combination of mobility and strength. This study presents the design, fabrication, and control of a new soft artificial shoulder that achieves a broad range of motion, torque, and compliance. Powered by soft robotic textiles consisting of a network of hydraulic artificial muscles, the engineered shoulder effectively mimics intricate shoulder movements, including flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, and medial/lateral rotation. Experiments demonstrate that the artificial shoulder can generate a peak torque of 9.6 ± 0.1 Nm, covering 65.3% of the human shoulder workspace. The artificial shoulder capability is demonstrated through several experimental testbeds. First, it is employed to develop a gesture‐controlled telemanipulation robotic system, applicable to robot‐assisted surgery, hazardous environment operations, gaming, and rehabilitation. Second, it serves as a platform for simulating and studying neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease. This approach offers a reliable in vitro testing ground for wearable device validation, providing a crucial intermediary step before progressing to user studies. The artificial shoulder marks a significant advancement in next‐generation anthropomorphic systems, closely mimicking the human musculoskeletal system, with promising applications in wearable assistive devices, haptics, orthopedic testing, and medical technologies.
Gecko‐Inspired Adhesive Grasping from Convex to Flat Surfaces with Contact Sensing
Authors: Wang Liuwei , Xie JiaPeng , Wang Shuangjie , Weng Zhiyuan , Song Yi , Dai Zhendong , Wang Zhouyi
Published: February 2025

This article introduces a gecko‐inspired, rolling, inward adhesion/outward release gripper with adhesive contact sensing for grasping convex‐to‐flat surfaces. The gripper consists of pneumatically driven hierarchical adhesive modules (bio‐toe) with the capability of contact sensing, and rolling inward/outward module (rolling module). The bio‐toe manufactured using soft materials can safely and flexibly cater to curved and flat surfaces. The rolling module developed using four‐bar linkage mechanism allows the opposing bio‐toes to roll inward to enhance adhesion (adhesion forces up to 6.3 N on a flat surface and 23 N on an 18 m−1 curved surface) and roll outward to decrease the force in releasing (less than 3 N and especially less than 0.8 N on the flat surface). Embedded resistive strain gauges provide real time signals for the controller to determine the status of the bio‐toe, such as bending, adhesion/release, and even adhesive contact rates, thereby allowing the gripper to autonomously approach, envelop, adhere to, and release objects of various shapes, with the potential for dynamic adhesion control in the future. The adhesive gripper equipped with adhesive contact sensing and biomimetic inward adhesion/outward release capabilities exhibits a broader grasping range and applicability in smart adhesive grabbing across industrial, agricultural, and human–robot interaction contexts.
Fine‐scale diversity models reveal impacts of invasive Gaillardia pulchella on regenerating vegetation in a sand dune grassland
Authors: Orbán Zsófia , Bakacsy László
Published: February 2025

Premise

Gaillardia pulchella is native to North America but invasive in Central Europe, including Hungary, and can significantly alter vegetation dynamics, thereby affecting biodiversity and community structure. This study explored the fine‐scale effects of G. pulchella invasion on the regeneration of old sandy fields in open dune grasslands in Kiskunság National Park, Hungary, within the Pannonian biogeographic region. The impact of invasion on vegetation association structures was estimated by investigating the early stages of the effects of invasion on plant communities.

Methods

Diversity models were used to assess compositional diversity (CD) and the number of realized species combinations (NRC) in invaded versus noninvaded stands. Plexus graphs were used to analyze the spatial relationships between G. pulchella and neighboring species at a fine scale (5 × 15 cm).

Results

Invasion‐free stands had higher species richness and greater structural complexity at fine spatial scales, as indicated by CD and NRC functions. Significantly higher CD values in invasion‐free stands compared to invaded stands emphasize the negative impact of G. pulchella on coexistence among native species. Plexus graphs illustrated both negative and positive associations between G. pulchella and native species, suggesting a nuanced competitive role in invaded stands.

Conclusions

Gaillardia pulchella invasion, though not strongly characterized, has negatively impacted vegetation structure at fine spatial scales, which may potentially intensify over time. The study underscores the importance of early detection and long‐term monitoring for a comprehensive understanding of invasive processes and their effects on plant communities in sandy habitats.
Hochdrucksynthese von Pr2O5 – Ein einzigartiges Lanthanoid(IV) Oxid Peroxid
Authors: Flosbach Niko T. , Brüning Lukas , Jurzick Pascal L. , Bykova Elena , Ekholm Marcus , Abrikosov Igor A. , Amirabbasi Mohammad , Mezouar Mohamed , Wehinger Björn , Giordano Nico , Fedotenko Timofey , Prakapenka Vitali , Chariton Stella , Wickleder Mathias S. , Bykov Maxim
Published: February 2025

Die Reaktion von Praseodym(IV)‐oxid und Sauerstoff bei 27 GPa in einer Diamantstempelzelle lieferte das Oxid Peroxid Pr2IV(O2)O3, welches bei unterschiedlichen Druckpunkten durch Einkristallstrukturanalyse an multikristallinem Material, Ramanspektroskopie sowie durch quantenchemische Rechnungen charakterisiert wurde. Die Anwesenheit vierwertiger Praseodymionen wird durch Berechnungen der elektronischen Struktur unterstützt, die eine Bandlücke von ca. 1,2 eV vorhersagen, was mit dem antizipierten chemischen Modell eines ionischen Festkörpers übereinstimmt. Pr2(O2)O3 stellt die bislang sauerstoffreichste binäre Verbindung eines Lanthanoids mit Sauerstoff dar und ist das erste Beispiel eines Peroxidanions neben Pr4+. Darüber hinaus demonstrieren diese Ergebnisse, dass Sauerstoff eine Komproportionierung eingeht um Peroxidionen zu bilden, bevor die Praseodymionen über die Oxidationsstufe +IV hinaus oxidiert werden. Die direkte Oxidation der Oxidionen durch Pr4+ wurde durch ein Kontrollexperiment in Argon anstelle von Sauerstoff ausgeschlossen, in welchem keine Oxidation der Oxidionen beobachtet wurde.
Phototransposition of Indazoles to Benzimidazoles: Tautomer‐Dependent Reactivity, Wavelength Dependence, and Continuous Flow Studies
Authors: Bartholomew G. Logan , Kim Sojung F. , Oyamada Yusuke , Sbordone Federica , Carroll Joshua A. , Jurczyk Justin E. , Yeung Charles S. , Barner-Kowollik Christopher , Sarpong Richmond
Published: February 2025

Herein, we report a detailed investigation of the photomediated transformation of indazoles to benzimidazoles through a nitrogen‐carbon transposition. This phototransposition is known to occur in low yield when 1H‐indazoles are subjected to high‐energy UVC irradiation. The 2H‐tautomer of indazole absorbs light more strongly than the 1H‐tautomer at longer wavelengths. We leveraged this improved absorbance profile to develop a general system for the high‐yielding conversion of N2‐derivatized indazoles (prepared from the corresponding 1H‐indazoles) to the corresponding benzimidazoles under UVB or UVA irradiation in up to 98% yield. Investigation of the substrate scope revealed a strong correlation between reaction yield and electron density at N2 of the indazole substrate, suggesting the importance of the availability of the lone pair at this position for reaction efficiency. In addition, evaluation of wavelength‐dependent reactivity through the generation of a photochemical action plot revealed that the highest conversion does not only occur at the substrate's maximum absorbance wavelength but also on its red‐side, enabling the use of longer wavelength irradiation to achieve high yields. Building on these insights, a continuous flow protocol was established that enables the phototransposition on preparative scale.
High Pressure Synthesis of Pr2O5 – A Unique Lanthanoid(IV) Oxide Peroxide
Authors: Flosbach Niko T. , Brüning Lukas , Jurzick Pascal L. , Bykova Elena , Ekholm Marcus , Abrikosov Igor A. , Amirabbasi Mohammad , Mezouar Mohamed , Wehinger Björn , Giordano Nico , Fedotenko Timofey , Prakapenka Vitali , Chariton Stella , Wickleder Mathias S. , Bykov Maxim
Published: February 2025

Reacting praseodymium(IV) oxide with oxygen at 27 GPa in a diamond anvil cell yielded the oxide peroxide Pr2IV(O2)O3, which was characterized by single crystal X‐ray diffraction on multi‐grain samples, Raman spectroscopy and quantum theoretical calculations at various pressure points. The presence of tetravalent praseodymium ions is supported by electronic structure calculations, showing a band gap of ca. 1.2 eV, which is consistent with the anticipated chemical model of an ionic solid. Pr2(O2)O3 thus far represents the most oxygen rich phase of any binary compound of a lanthanoid and oxygen and is the first example of a peroxide anion next to Pr4+. Additionally, these results demonstrate that instead of oxidizing the praseodymium ions past their +IV oxidation state, oxygen undergoes a comproportionation to form peroxide anions. Direct oxidation of the oxide anions by Pr4+‐ions was ruled out by a control experiment in argon instead of oxygen, where no oxidation of oxide ions was observed.
High Strength, High Barrier Polymeric Packaging Film Based on Multilayered Structure
Authors: Lee Junhyuk , Seo Young Jin , Kang DongHo , Park Chi Hoon , Shim Jin Kie
Published: February 2025

Polyolefins have attracted considerable attention as packaging materials because of their outstanding light weight, flexibility, strength, transparency, and facile processability. However, because of their high permeability, polyolefins were usually used with high barrier material (i.e., ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), nylon, polyvinylidene dichloride) for packaging applications, resulting limited recycling of packaging films. Herein, we manufacture high strength, high barrier linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) films with a limited amount of EVOH using co‐extruder with layer multiplier. To achieve high barrier and high strength property, structures of films were carefully designed to have 1, 2, 4, 8 layers of EVOH while maintaining the overall thickness of EVOH and LLDPE. The oxygen permeability of multilayer films was significantly decreased from 0.1 to 0.01 cc/m2·day·atm when the films have eight layers of EVOH. In addition, the mechanical properties of multilayer films, such as elongation and toughness, were improved as decrease the thickness of each EVOH layer. In addition, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was conducted to confirm that O2 was stagnant between the LLDPE and EVOH interfaces.
Abundance and Residency Patterns of Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Freshwater‐Influenced Estuaries of the Northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Bouveroux Thibaut , Sinclair Carrie , Barry Kevin , Clance Lauren , Hansen Joseph J. , Mullin Keith D. , Rosel Patricia , Carmichael Ruth H.
Published: February 2025

Multiple stressors are affecting common bottlenose dolphins in the northern Gulf of Mexico, including two embayments in Alabama, Mobile Bay (MOB) and Perdido Bay (PER), where no comprehensive abundance estimates and residency data are currently available. This study provides the first seasonal abundance estimates and residency patterns for bottlenose dolphins in MOB and PER and discusses the effects of seasonal entry of large volumes of freshwater on dolphin abundance. In MOB, abundance estimates were larger in summer, with the highest abundance recorded in summer 2022 (1712 dolphins, 95% CI: 1520–1928) and the lowest in winter 2019–2020 (518 dolphins, 95% CI: 260–1032). The opposite pattern was found in PER, where abundances were larger in winter, with the highest abundance in winter 2021–2022 (191 dolphins, 95% CI: 157–232) and the lowest in summer 2020 (100 dolphins, 95% CI: 81–122). Stronger residency patterns were found in PER, with 28% (n = 52) encountered in more than three seasons compared to MOB where only 9% (n = 57) were encountered in more than three seasons, and considered resident dolphins. The two studied embayments support a larger number of dolphins than previously documented and likely provide seasonally different resources, indicating high and potentially complex use of these estuaries. Combined with other data concurrently collected in this area, this study will inform conservation management and strategies for these highly impacted dolphin stocks.
Osteogenic Evaluation of 3D‐printed PLA scaffolds Integrated with Khellin‐loaded Chitosan‐Alginate Sponges for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ganesamoorthi Srinidhi , Sathiya Kumar , Mohan Sahithya , Shanmugavadivu Abinaya , Lekhavadhani Sundaravadhanan , Babu Sushma , Selvamurugan Nagarajan
Published: February 2025

Bone tissue engineering (BTE) offers promising strategies for bone regeneration, yet the effective delivery of bioactive molecules remains a challenge. Khellin (KH), a plant‐derived furanochromone, possesses various biological properties, though its potential in promoting osteogenesis has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, 3D‐printed polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds were integrated with KH‐loaded chitosan‐alginate sponges (PLA/ALG/CS‐KH) to facilitate controlled and sustained delivery of KH. Using sol‐gel and freeze‐drying techniques, KH was incorporated at varying concentrations (60, 70, and 80 μM) to enhance its bioavailability. Comprehensive physicochemical analyses demonstrated that KH incorporation did not alter the scaffolds’ porosity, swelling capacity, protein adsorption, degradation rates, or biomineralization potential. In vitro studies revealed that the PLA/ALG/CS‐KH scaffolds were biocompatible with mesenchymal stem cells and effectively promoted osteogenic differentiation, particularly at a concentration of 70 μM KH. These results suggest that PLA/ALG/CS‐KH scaffolds have significant potential as osteoinductive platforms for BTE applications, providing a novel approach for enhancing bone regeneration through the sustained release of KH.
Fluorescence and Phosphorescence Dual‐Emission Liquid Crystal Polymer Optical Waveguide for Logical Gate
Authors: Li Jie , Hao Tian‐Tian , Chen Jin‐Kang , Huang Jiang , Chen Yi , Cai Jia‐Hao , Guan Yan , Li Heng , Xie He‐Lou
Published: February 2025

Information security has emerged as a critical concern in contemporary society. Leveraging optical logic gates with dual‐emission characteristics offers a promising approach to enhancing information security. However, designing active optical waveguide materials (OWMs) capable of fluorescence‐phosphorescence dual emission remains a significant challenge. In this study, we present a room‐temperature phosphorescent liquid crystalline polymer (RTP LCP) as active OWMs exhibiting fluorescence‐phosphorescence dual emission and a low optical loss coefficient (OLC) for implementation in optical logic gates. The resulting RTP LCP exhibits a smectic phase between 25 °C and 90 °C, followed by nematic phase between 90 °C and 110 °C, with a phosphorescence lifetime of 2.77 ms. Subsequently, the RTP LCP is processed into oriented liquid crystal fibers and encapsulated in polymethyl methacrylate. Optical waveguide experiments demonstrate that these oriented liquid crystal fibers exhibit fluorescence‐phosphorescence dual emission, with low OLCs of 0.20 dB/mm at 490 nm and 0.17 dB/mm at 565 nm. Furthermore, these dual‐emission active OWMs are successfully applied to optical logic gates. This work holds significant implications for the development of active OWMs with fluorescence‐phosphorescence dual emission, advancing their potential applications in optical logic gates.
One‐Step Green Hydrothermal‐Assisted Synthesis of Carbon Quantum Dots From Robinia hispida L. Flowers, and Flourimetric Detection of Au3+ Ions in Aqueous Media
Authors: Başoğlu Aysel
Published: February 2025

Water‐soluble fluorescent carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were synthesized via a single‐step, eco‐friendly hydrothermal process using Robinia hispida L. flowers as a novel carbon source. Advanced characterization techniques (HRTEM, XRD, XPS, FTIR, UV–vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy) revealed spherical CQDs with an average size of 3.96 ± 0.83 nm and a quantum yield of 5.13%. Under 365 nm UV light, the CQDs emitted blue fluorescence. Fluorescence quenching studies with various metal ions showed a significant 93.5% reduction in FL intensity with 500 μM Au3+ ions. At pH 7.0, a linear detection range of 0.5–3.5 μM was achieved, with limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) of 0.4 and 1.2 μM, respectively. The non‐functionalized CQDs effectively detected Au3+ ions in tap, drinking, and river water, acidic mine drainage (sludge), and a standard reference material (CRMSA‐C Sandy Soil C), achieving spike recoveries of 96.06%–101.71% with variability below 4.13%.