bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soot in Rivers State and Haematological Insults
Authors: Nyebuchi Jonathan , Ibifubara Jumbo Mieiwari , Loveday Udu Zebedee , Ohwonigho Adjekuko Collins
Published: April 2022

Soot is known as unwanted by-products gotten from incomplete burning of materials that contain carbon. Soot is also known as black carbon (BC) or carbon blacks (CBs). It is capable of causing many health issues in both humans and animals. When illegal refining and burning activities are carried out, the end product is usually the production of soots. Cases of soot emissions rising in developing countries.  It is one cause of diseases in the human population; these diseases include respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and sometimes reproductive system abnormality. Rivers State is a highly populated State with lots of companies carrying out one form of refining and exploration or another. Two factors are responsible for the rising increase of soot in Rivers State, the burning of illegal petroleum product by security agencies and the operation of unlawful illegal refineries carried out from the creeks and surroundings of some local communities and Port Harcourt, the State headquarters. The aim of this review was to assess the effects soot has on the haematological parameters of individuals living in Rivers State. Soot has been shown by several studies to cause some deviation in the haematological parameters such as decrease in the PCV, Hb and RBC. However, it also brings about an increase in the total white blood cell count, neutrophils and lymphocytes. This review provides information on the haematological insults associated with soot exposure in Rivers State.
On The Impact of Exchange Rate Depreciation on Bilateral Trade of Egypt and China: An ARDL Approach
Authors: Refaey Mahmoud Noura
Published: April 2022

The main purpose of this study is to examine the relationship of exchange rate depreciation with Egypt and China bilateral trade. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach to co-integration is employed to investigate the both long run and short run relationship between the real depreciation and bilateral Trade in the case of Egypt and China over the period of 1994 to 2019. Estimation results confirm the existence of the long-term impact of depreciation on Egypt’s trade flows between the two countries. The results also revealed that growth in domestic income improved the Egypt’s trade balance while growth in China income decreased the bilateral trade flows. Over time, the findings revealed that the J-curve phenomena hold in the long-run. Results suggest two main conclusions to policy makers. First, The improvement of the trade balance needs inclusive support of Egypt's export stimulus policies. Second, Second, China presents enormous opportunities for Egyptian exports to this growing market.
Evaluation and Validation of Carvedilol in Bulk and Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Chinchore Gaurav , Mankar Someshwar
Published: April 2022

Background: Quality may be described as the character that determines the degree of excellence. A good quality medication is anything that meets the product specifications, can be purchased safely, and can be used confidently for the purpose for which it was designed.To obtain a high quality medication, the manufacturing process for producing a drug should have quality integrated into it. Analytical chemistry is the discipline that seeks ever better methods of assessing the chemical composition of natural and manmade materials.

Aims and Objective: Evaluation and validation of carvedilol in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms.

Material and Methods: preparation of standard stock solution and preparation of sample solution as per standard protocol.

Result: In the RP-HPLC method, a wavelength of 242 nm was retained and the retention time was found to be 2.9 with optimised conditions. Carvedilol showed linearity in the range of 15.62 -93.75µg/ml. where the peak shape was symmetrical and a good correlation coefficient value was obtained.

Conclusion: RP-HPLC, HPTLC, UV spectroscopy were found to be sensitive, precise, and accurate. However these three methods can be used for the routine analysis of carvedilol from formulation.
China's Regulatory Change: The Evolution of National Medical Products Administration
Authors: Charmila M. , Venkatesh M. P. , Kavitha N. , Joshi Vedamurthy
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview and review of the major regulatory changes that National Medical Products Administration has undergone in China since 2015 in order to accelerate new product production and registration in accordance with international standards, as well as to raise the profile of Chinese medical products on a global scale. China's regulatory structure has always been highly complex. China's health authority has been modifying the organisational structure in China in order to bring Chinese therapeutic products up to international standards in terms of suitability, safety, and dependability, as well as to more likely locate individuals' general prescription drug requirement and expand access to new drugs and treatments from around the world. By applying worldwide standards and technical criteria, enhancing review and approval transparency, and speeding up the examination and approval of new drugs, medical devices, and other items, all of the regulatory improvements are making it simpler to manufacture creative products. The Chinese Ministry of Health has also published instructions on medication development and technical evaluation, as well as the implementation of electronic common technical documentation and post-approval safety surveillance. Regulations for priority review and approval, a data protection system, imported medical product registration, and new product categorization have all been put in place to encourage the development of innovative goods. China's regulatory framework is in the process of being overhauled. In the near future, it is conceivable to accomplish simultaneous growth and approval on par with existing regulated markets.
Exploring the Relationship between Bowel Microbiota and Impaired Glucose Tolerance
Authors: Attia Attia Ahmed , Elmetwalli Alaa , Eldiasty Jayda G.
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim: Because of the large number of genes found in the gut microbiome, it has recently been determined that numerous human microorganisms have significant implications for human health.

Aim: The significance of gut bacteria in the development of T2DM was investigated in this study.

Materials and Methods: Microbial species were extracted from fecal materials; they were identified and quantified using genomic spectrophotometric equipment, and certain biochemical parameters for Diabetes were quantified.

Result: We observed a concentration of firmicutes, Bacteroides, and proteobacteria, with the Escherichia coli population predominating. Biochemical parameters reveal a several-fold raised value for some biomarkers in T2DM. In a paired sample test results gave significant differences for all tested pairs.

Conclusion: Microbiomes can affect the gut environment and trigger alterations that embolden the development of T2DM, according to study findings.
Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of Commonly used Plants for Wound Treatment in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: B. Akinbobola Ayorinde
Published: April 2022

Aims: Infection of wounds by microorganisms can prolong wound healing process and result in wound associated complications. Therefore, wound treatment entails the use of antimicrobial agents usually administered directly on the wound where possible to prevent microbial colonization. Traditionally, various plants have been used in wound treatment in different regions of the world. This study evaluated the contribution of the antibacterial activity of four plants commonly use in the treatment of wound in southwestern Nigeria to their ethnobotanically acclaimed wound healing property.

Methodology: The antibacterial activity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the selected plants (Chromolaena odorata, Sida acuta, Ageratum conyzoides and Carica papaya) was evaluated using the agar well diffusion assay. Wound isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, two commonly isolated Gram negative and Gram-positive bacteria from wounds were used for this study. Antibacterial activity was inferred for plant extracts that achieved zone of inhibition ≥ 7 mm in diameter (size of the well inclusive).

Results: Generally, the ethanolic extracts of the selected plants showed better extraction yield and antibacterial activity compared to the aqueous extracts. The ethanolic extracts of the four selected plants demonstrated antibacterial activity against the test organisms used while only the aqueous extracts of Chromolaena odorata and Sida acuta showed activity against both test organisms. The aqueous extracts of Ageratum conyzoides and Carica papaya only showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus.

Conclusion: Results from this study demonstrated that the antibacterial activity of the selected plants contributes to their acclaimed wound healing property. Although there is need to investigate the role of other non-antibacterial properties of the plants that may be associated with wound healing to fully understand the usefulness of the plants in wound treatment.
Pseudomonas mosselli: A Case Series on Its Potential as a Rare Opportunistic Pathogen in Immunocompromised Patients
Authors: Kar Mitra , Dubey Akanksha , Sahu Chinmoy , Singh Patel Sangram
Published: April 2022

Background: Pseudomonas mosselli is a Gram negative, rod-shaped, aerobic, non-sporing and motile bacterium co-existing in the soil with plants, protecting them from fungal and bacterial infections by producing diverse molecules and causing rare opportunistic infections in immunocompromised hosts. Most common presentations of respiratory infection caused by this isolate include fever, respiratory distress and purulent cough. Satisfactory antibiotic coverage and early diagnosis mostly leads to complete recovery of the patient.

Cases: Three cases have been included in our case series of which case 1 had type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease and hypertension and was also diagnosed SARS- CoV-2 positive by RT-PCR (Real time polymerase chain reaction), case 2 had Takosubo cardiomyopathy, an immunological disorder with impending heart failure and case 3 suffered from advanced renal failure due to rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis on weekly dialysis and steroid therapy. Pseudomonas mosselii from the respiratory samples of the patients admitted to a tertiary care centre were identified by the culture characteristics, biochemical reactions and species identification, performed by Matrix assisted laser desorption / ionization- time of flight- mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS).

Conclusion: Pseudomonas mosselii causes opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. Respiratory infections caused by it are highly drug susceptible and can be easily overcome by administration of appropriate antibiotic treatment followed by antibiotic susceptibility testing.
Molecular Characterization of Bacteria Associated with Vended Suya Meat in Port Harcourt
Authors: Wilson B. U. , Wemedo S. A. , Sampson T.
Published: April 2022

The contamination of vended food with microorganisms especially pathogenic microbes is a public health hazard that could result to gastroenteritis. The aim of this study was to identify by molecular techniques bacteria associated with vended suya meat in part of Port Harcourt. Forty (40) ready-to-eat suya meat were randomly bought from 10 vendors across four locations: Rumuokoro, Rukpokwu, Nkpolu, and Choba. Sampling was carried out for a period of 3 months (September to November, 2019). The total heterotrophic bacterial counts of the vended suya meat for Rumuokoro, Rukpokwu, Nkpolu, and Choba were 1.04×106, 3.4×106, 1.49×106 and 2.04×106 CFU/g, respectively. While the total coliform counts of the vended suya meat for Rumuokoro, Rukpokwu, Nkpolu and Choba were 0.36×105, 3.21×105, 2.45×105 and 6.39×105 CFU/g, respectively. The total heterotrophic bacterial counts of vended suya meat bought from vendors in Choba were significantly higher (P≤ .05) than those bought from the Rumuokoro and Rukpokwu vendors. Similarly, the coliform counts of the suya meat bought from Choba vendors were significantly higher (P≤ .05) higher than the coliform counts of vended suya meat bought from vendors in Rumuokoro and Nkpolu. Twenty-eight bacterial isolates: Staphylococcus delphini, Staphylococcus lugdunensis, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus pasteuri, Paenibacillus pectinolytic, Lysinibacillus fusiforms, Bacillus aerius, Serratia nematodephila, Providencia alcalifaciens, Klebsiella singaporensis, Pseudomona aeruginosa, E. coli, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Proteus myxofaciens were identified from the vended suya meat. The molecular characterization of 16S rRNA of the isolates showed 99-100% similarity to other species in the NCBI data base. The evolutionary distances computed were in agreement with the phylogenetic placement of the 16S rRNA of the isolates Providencia and the Bacillus spp respectively and revealed a close relatedness to Providencia stuartii and Bacillus flexus respectively. The 16S rRNA of Bacillus, Pseudomonas, and Lysinibacillus spp revealed a close relatedness to Bacillus flexus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Lysinibacillus fusiformis. The frequency of occurrence of bacterial isolates across the locations was: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (7.14), Bacillus flexus (7.14), Bacillus spp (14.29), Staphylococcus sp (14.29), Staphylococcus lugdunensis (10.71), Proteus sp (10.71), Lynsibacillus macroides (3.57), E. coli (10.71), Serratia spp (10.71), Klebsiella spp (7.14) and Providencia alcalifaciens (3.57). These bacterial genera could pose serious health challenges especially if they are consumed in quantities required to cause infections as many have been linked to causing gastroenteritis and other forms of infections. Proper hygiene compliance during preparation and packaging is recommended to eliminate or reduce microbial populations and types.
Climate Change and Coccidioidomycosis
Authors: Lee Pamela S. , Swain Daniel L. , Johnson Royce
Published: February 2025

This JAMA Insights discusses the increased risk of coccidioidomycosis due to climate change and the importance of clinicians, patients, and health systems being educated about the disease to ensure accurate identification and optimal care for patients.
Immunoregulatory mechanisms of the arachidonic acid pathway in cancer
Authors: Tredicine Maria , Mucci Matteo , Recchiuti Antonio , Mattoscio Domenico
Published: February 2025

The arachidonic acid (AA) pathway promotes tumor progression by modulating the complex interactions between cancer and immune cells within the microenvironment. In this Review, we summarize the knowledge acquired thus far concerning the intricate mechanisms through which eicosanoids either promote or suppress the antitumor immune response. In addition, we will discuss the impact of eicosanoids on immune cells and how they affect responsiveness to immunotherapy, as well as potential strategies for manipulating the AA pathway to improve anticancer immunotherapy. Understanding the molecular pathways and mechanisms underlying the role played by AA and its metabolites in tumor progression may contribute to the development of more effective anticancer immunotherapies.
Clathrin functions in intracellular sorting during receptor‐mediated endocytosis
Authors: Itagaki Mai , Kamei Noriyasu
Published: February 2025

Clathrin is a key protein involved in receptor‐mediated endocytosis (RME), which is also known as clathrin‐mediated endocytosis (CME). Ligand/receptor binding facilitates clathrin clustering and cell surface invagination. We recently found that the typical CME ligand transferrin (Tf) can be internalized into cells without the clathrin heavy chain (CLTC). In this study, we clarified the unknown roles of clathrin during intracellular trafficking. Microscopic observation revealed that Tf accumulates in the deeper compartments of CLTC‐knockdown HeLa cells. A colocalization analysis with endosome/lysosome markers showed that endocytosed Tf moves to early/late endosomes and then to lysosomes in CLTC‐knockdown cells. This suggests that clathrin contributes to the recycling and exocytosis of endocytosed molecules.
The Role of Nonformal and Informal Learning in Strengthening a Culture of Lifelong Learning
Authors: Gervacio Juvy Lizette M. , Xhomaqi Brikena
Published: February 2025

The Marrakech Framework for Action (MFA) recognizes the importance of nonformal and informal learning in lifelong learning. They provide more opportunities for learners because they are more inclusive and accessible. One of the strategies is the establishment of community learning centers that provide opportunities for various kinds of learners. The programs are considered to be community‐based, participatory, and inclusive. In this article, the authors explore the role of nonformal and informal learning in lifelong learning, specifically in the context of community learning centers. Various initiatives in selected European countries and the Philippines in Asia are described, in addition to challenges and recommendations for future implementation of nonformal and informal learning in lifelong learning.
Microneedle Assisted Melittin‐Chondroitin Sulfate Administration for the Transdermal Therapy of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Jin Lili , Wang Zhenhui , Peng Cheng , He Miao , Wang Feng , He Hongyan , Liu Changsheng
Published: February 2025

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a persistent and debilitating chronic disease characterize by joint damage and deformity, significantly impairs the life quality of patients and presents challenges for conventional drug administration due to organ damage and unsatisfactory therapeutic outcomes. To address these challenges, this study introduces an innovative hydrogel cryo‐microneedle patch (CMNP)‐mediated local administration system, primarily composed of chondroitin sulfate (CS), to deliver the potent anti‐inflammatory drug melittin (MEL). This innovative approach not only circumvents organ impairment but also enhances patient compliance. The acute toxicity of MEL is effectively mitigated by electrostatic binding with CS molecules, forming MC complexes that induce apoptosis in fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS). The MC‐loaded CMNPs (MC@CCMNPs) exhibit remarkable therapeutic capacity with a notably meliorated joint damage and suppressed arthritis severity in the RA rat model. Therefore, MC@CCMNPs emerge as a promising anti‐inflammatory and safe therapy for RA treatment, as well as for other inflammation related chronic diseases.
A Comparison of the Mechanical Properties of ECM Components and Synthetic Self‐Assembling Peptides
Authors: Hartley Alex , Williams Philip Michael , Mata Alvaro
Published: February 2025

The field of tissue engineering is increasingly moving away from a one‐size‐fits‐all approach of simple synthetic homogeneous gels, and embracing more tailored designs to optimize cell function and differentiation for the organ of interest. Extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins are still the optimal route for controlling cell function, while a field of great promise is that of synthetic self‐assembling peptides (SSAPs), which are fully biocompatible, biodegradable, and offer both the hierarchical structure and dynamic properties displayed by protein networks found in natural tissue. However, the mechanical properties of neither group have been comprehensively reviewed. In this review, rheological data and the Young's modulus of the most prevalent proteins involved in the ECM (collagen I, elastin, and fibronectin) are collated for the first time, and compared against the most widely researched SSAPs: peptide amphiphiles (PAs), β‐sheets, β‐hairpin peptides, and Fmoc‐based gels (with a focus on PA‐E3, RADA16, MAX1, and FmocFF, respectively).
EBNA1 Targeted Ultra‐Small Near‐Infrared Persistent Luminescent Nano‐Inhibitor for Theranostics of EBV‐Associated Cancer
Authors: Xie Yanping , Zhu Yunfei , Wen Ya , Hu Siqi , Jiao Ju , Wu Yue , Jiang Lijun , Viana Bruno , Wong Ka‐Leung , Wang Jing , Zou Rui
Published: February 2025

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a well‐recognized oncogenic virus that promotes several lymphoid and epithelial cancers. The Epstein–Barr nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1), which is known to be expressed in all EBV‐positive cancers, plays a vital role in viral genome replication and maintenance and is therefore emerged as an attractive target for clinical intervention. Several EBNA1 inhibitors have shown potency in the growth inhibition of EBV‐positive cancers, yet low bioavailability and in vivo unmonitored nature hamper their further implementation. Here a novel EBNA1 nano‐inhibitor based on EBNA1‐specific peptide inhibitor (P4) functionalized ZnGa2O4:Cr3+ ultra‐small near‐infrared persistent luminescent (NIR‐PL) nanoparticles (ZGOC‐P4) is developed. Owing to the specific binding to EBNA1, ZGOC‐P4 nano‐inhibitor can quickly achieve nuclear internalization in EBV‐positive nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells (C666‐1) and selectively inhibit their growth. In sharp contrast, ZGOC‐P4 nano‐inhibitor shows no inhibition effect on EBV‐negative NPC cells (HK‐1). Moreover, the results indicate that the well‐designed nano‐inhibitor enables efficient tumor‐targeting accumulation in NPC xenograft model under the monitoring of autofluorescence interference‐free NIR‐PL imaging in vivo and suppresses EBV‐associated tumor growth with an inhibition rate of 61.6%. This work highlights the potency of ZGOC‐P4 on NPC treatment and may provide new sight into future research on EBV‐associated diseases.
High‐Security Plastic with Integrated Holographic and Phosphorescent Images
Authors: Yao Ming , Wei Wei , Qiao Weiguo , Zhang Yue , Zhou Xingping , Li Zhong'an , Peng Haiyan , Xie Xiaolin
Published: February 2025

Organic room temperature phosphorescence (ORTP) polymer materials have sparked considerable research interests in recent years, but their optical function is still limited for multi‐mode optical imaging. Herein, a feasible and universal approach is proposed to endow ORTP polymer materials with periodic refractive index modulation functions by holographic patterning. The key to this approach is to design a two‐stage stepwise crosslinking. Stage‐1, with low crosslinking density (≤0.75 mol L−1), is phosphorescence‐silent but can provide greater free volume for monomer diffusion and thus facilitate the patterning of refractive index modulated holograms via photopolymerization‐induced phase separation. The dense crosslinking at stage‐2 can turn on phosphorescence with the intensity rising by 144% when the crosslinking density increases from 3.77 to 4.12 mol L−1. The enhanced phosphorescence is primarily ascribed to the increase of conformational distortion and spin‐orbit coupling of organic phosphors based on theoretical calculations. Eventually, the first example is demonstrated of holographic plastic with the unique capability of independently displaying holographic andphosphorescent images. This work not only provides a novel paradigm to impart added optical functions to ORTP polymer materials but also paves the way for the development of high‐security optical materials to combat counterfeiting.
Antibody‐level Bacteria Grabbing by “Mechanic Invasion” of Bioinspired Hedgehog Artificial Mesoporous Nanostructure for Hierarchical Dynamic Identification and Light‐Response Sterilization
Authors: Liu Sijie , Shu Rui , Jia Huilin , Wang Kexin , Wang Biao , Zhang Jiayi , Sun Jing , Sattorov Nosirjon , Makhmudov Kamoljon Burkhonovich , Jin Maojun , Wang Jianlong
Published: February 2025

The interactions exploration between microorganisms and nanostructures are pivotal steps toward advanced applications, but the antibody‐level bacteria grabbing is limited by the poor understanding of interface identification mechanisms in small‐sized systems. Herein, the de novo design of a bioinspired hedgehog artificial mesoporous nanostructure (core–shell mesoporous Au@Pt (mAPt)) are proposed to investigate the association between the topography design and efficient bacteria grabbing. These observations indicate that virus‐like spiky topography compensates for the obstacles faced by small‐sized materials for bacteria grabbing, including the lack of requisite microscopic cavities and sufficient contact area. Molecular dynamics simulation reveals that spiky topography with heightened mechano‐invasiveness (6.56 × 103 KJ mol−1) facilitates antibody‐level bacteria grabbing, attributed to the “mechanic invasion”‐induced hierarchical dynamic identification ranging from rough surface contact to penetration fixation. Furthermore, light reflectance and finite element calculation confirmed that mAPt exhibits near‐superblack characteristic and plasmonic hot spot, facilitating enhanced photothermal conversion with power dissipation density at 2.04 × 1021 W m−3. After integrating the hierarchical dynamic identification with enhanced light response, mAPt enables advanced applications in immunoassay with 50‐fold sensitivity enhancement and over 99.99% in vitro photothermal sterilization. It is anticipated that this novel biomimetic design provides a deeper understanding of bacteria grabbing and a promising paradigm for bacteria combating.
One‐pot tandem cyclization of β‐oxoamides, primary amines, and 3‐bromo‐1,1,1‐trifluoroacetone: Synthesis of 2/4‐trifluoromethyl‐substituted dihydropyrrol‐2/4‐ols
Authors: Dadmal Tulshiram , Venkata Kishore Koppadi Syam , Wasekar Chandrakant , Borkar Prashant G. , Shelke Mangesh E. , bansod sudhakar M , Nechipadappu Sunil Kumar , Shanker P. Sathya
Published: February 2025

A facile one‐pot, three‐component cascade cyclization has been developed for synthesis of 2‐trifluoromethyl‐2‐ol dihydropyrroles and 4‐trifluoromethyl‐4‐ol dihydropyrroles from various substituted amines, 3‐bromo‐1,1,1‐trifluoropropan‐2‐one, and substituted β‐oxoamides using K₂CO₃ as an additive. This K₂CO₃‐promoted method offers a simple and efficient approach for achieving highly regioselective products through cascade bond formation and cyclization. Post functionalization of resulting products into various valuable trifluoromethylated heterocycles including triazoles, isoxazoles, Mannich bases and the products from Sonogashira coupling reactions has also been reported. Additionally, a straightforward and scalable protocol for synthesis of 4‐trifluoromethylpyrrole‐3‐carboxamide derivatives without K₂CO₃, utilizing diverse 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds has been established. This method demonstrates broad substrate compatibility, efficient tolerance towards a wide range of functional groups, making it a versatile strategy for accessing highly substituted trifluoromethylated pyrroles.
Synthesis of Oxadendralenes by Thermal Oxy‐Cope Type Rearrangement of Bis(α‐hydroxyallenes)
Authors: Almendros Pedro , San Martín Daniel , Martínez del Campo Teresa
Published: February 2025

We report the direct and selective synthesis of oxadendralenes starting from readily available bis(α‐hydroxyallenes). The designed sequence involves a hitherto unknown oxy‐Cope rearrangement of allenols by supplying a site for the migration of the 1,2‐diene moiety. Moreover, the so‐prepared oxadendralenes were converted into valuable polyfunctionalized scaffolds through effective late‐stage diversification.
Non‐Membrane Active Peptide Resensitizes MRSA to β‐Lactam Antibiotics and Inhibits S. aureus Virulence
Authors: Shi Jingru , Chen Chen , Kong Pan , Yu Feiyu , Lv Qingyan , Wang Zhiqiang , Liu Yuan
Published: February 2025

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a serious global health threat due to its high morbidity and mortality rates, creating a dire need for novel therapeutic strategies. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), with broad‐spectrum activity and low propensity for resistance development, show promise as effective antibiotic adjuvants to reverse multidrug‐resistance in bacteria. Herein, it is uncovered that a potent and non‐toxic AMP termed GN1 substantially resensitizes MRSA to multiple β‐lactam antibiotics at low concentrations. Mechanistic studies indicate that GN1 functions by suppressing both the production and enzymatic activity of MRSA‐associated resistance determinants, including penicillin‐binding protein 2a (PBP2a) and β‐lactamase. Additionally, GN1 exhibits a robust anti‐virulence profile by inhibiting MRSA biofilm formation and staphyloxanthin production. Furthermore, GN1 induces bacterial metabolic perturbation, resulting in glutamate accumulation and oxidative damage. Importantly, the combination of GN1 with β‐lactam antibiotics effectively mitigates MRSA‐induced infections in the animal infection models. Collectively, these findings suggest that GN1 represents a potent β‐lactam adjuvant and anti‐virulence agent, offering a safe and versatile solution to combat MRSA infections.
High Strength, Strain, and Resilience of Gold Nanoparticle Reinforced Eutectogels for Multifunctional Sensors
Authors: Huang Yingxiang , Yang Yanzhao , Peng Cong , Li Yu , Feng Wei
Published: February 2025

Eutectogels with inherent ionic conductivity, mechanical flexibility, environment resistance, and cost‐effectiveness have garnered considerable attention for the development of wearable devices. However, existing eutectogels rarely achieve a balance between strength, strain, and resilience, which are critical indicators of reliability in flexible electronics. Herein, poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSS)‐modified gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in eutectic solvents are synthesized, and PSS‐AuNP reinforced polyacrylic acid/polyvinylpyrrolidone (SAu‐PAA/PVP) eutectogel is successfully prepared. Through the coordination between AuNPs and the PAA/PVP polymer chains, the SAu‐PAA/PVP eutectogel exhibits significantly enhanced tensile strain (946%), mechanical strength (3.50 MPa), and resilience (85.3%). The high‐performance eutectogel was demonstrated as a flexible sensor sensitive to strain and temperature, and the AuNPs provided near‐infrared sensing capabilities. Furthermore, SAu‐PAA/PVP eutectogel inherits the benefits of ES, including anti‐drying and anti‐freezing properties (−77 °C). Moreover, the eutectogel is microstructured using a simple molding method, and the resulting hierarchical pyramid microstructured eutectogel functions as ionic dielectric layer in a pressure sensor. This sensor exhibits high sensitivity (37.11 kPa−1), low detection limit (1 Pa), a fast response rate (36/54 ms), and excellent reproducibility over 5000 cycles, making them reliable and durable for detecting small vibrations, with potential applications in precision machinery, aerospace, and buildings.
Educating teachers toward immigrant empowerment and liberation in the United States and Chile: A funds of knowledge perspective
Authors: Iddings Ana Christina da Silva , Lamas Macarena , Rojas Carola Lourdes Aravena , Vasquez Katherine Malhue
Published: February 2025

This article examines how university‐based teacher education programs in diverse historical, sociocultural, and political settings in the U.S. and in Chile, served to foster immigrant empowerment and liberation. Using a Funds of Knowledge approach, the study analyzed the educational practices of migrant families and their integration into early childhood teacher education curricula in both countries. Ethnographic methods, including teacher interviews, household visits, and case studies, revealed that engaging with immigrant families fostered critical thinking among teachers, deepened their respect for the families' values and aspirations, and highlighted the rich educational resources within immigrant households. The study underscores the importance of recognizing and incorporating these practices to support young immigrant children's development. However, it also stresses the urgent need to address systemic oppression and entrenched colonial‐racial ideologies that persist in educational systems in both contexts.
Validating a Mixed Qualitative Behavioral Assessment for Adult Western Lowland Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) I: Baseline Monitoring
Authors: Gartland Kylen N. , Bovee Emily , Fuller Grace
Published: February 2025

Traditional qualitative behavioral assessments (QBAs) employ a unique whole‐animal approach to measure animal welfare with a focus on affective elements. QBAs require comprehensive validation including reliability across multiple raters, subjects, and institutions, as well as consistency with other validated assessment measures. In 2016, the Detroit Zoological Society developed and began internally validating the Gorilla Behavioral Assessment Tool (GBAT), followed by internal applications of a revised GBAT in 2021. This study continues these validation efforts through the multi‐institutional application of the GBAT in baseline conditions. Five zoological institutions participated in this study, creating a study population of 15 adult male western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) and more than 40 staff. Care staff collected fecal samples from each gorilla, and two staff from each institution completed the GBAT for each gorilla daily. Three of the five institutions collected focal behavioral data. We calculated inter‐rater reliability using Gwet's AC2, establishing near‐perfect reliability across all tested items. We found no significant variation in reliability between institutions. We used the behavioral data and fecal glucocorticoid metabolites for construct validation. A combination of Spearman's correlations and generalized linear mixed models demonstrated statistically significant relationships between seven of the 12 tested GBAT items and other established measures. Integration of physical and behavioral indicators of welfare alongside affective indicators alters the GBAT from a traditional QBA into what we propose as a mixed or M‐QBA. Our work demonstrates how an M‐QBA allows for a more comprehensive assessment of animal welfare with implications for broader research applications.
Towards Surface‐Enhanced Homogeneous Catalysis: Tailoring the Enrichment of Metal Complexes at Ionic Liquid Surfaces
Authors: Hemmeter Daniel , Haumann Marco , Williams Federico J. , Koller Thomas M. , Wasserscheid Peter , Meyer Karsten , Maier Florian , Steinrück Hans‐Peter
Published: February 2025

When talking about homogeneous catalyst systems, it has long been assumed that the system at hand consists of a transition metal complex in solution with the liquid interface representing the composition of the bulk solution. Now, in light of considerable developments in the study of metal complexes dissolved in ionic liquids with their negligible vapor pressures, more detailed studies of the composition at the liquid/gas interface became possible. These investigations revealed pronounced surface enrichment and segregation effects of high relevance for practical applications. This article reviews recent advancements in tailoring the interfacial composition of ionic liquid‐based catalytic systems. A particular focus is dedicated to surface enrichment phenomena, and a variety of parameters are presented for deliberate control of the local concentration of the complexes at the surface, that is, the nature of the ligands, the bulk concentration, the temperature, and the nature of the IL solvent. As experimental methods, angle‐resolved X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (ARXPS) and vacuum‐based pendant‐drop surface tension measurements were applied. The reviewed results are intended to provide the basis for the advancement of catalytic systems with high surface areas, such as in supported ionic liquid phase (SILP) catalysis, where the interface design is directly interconnected with catalytic performance.
Towards Ultra‐stable Wide‐temperature Zinc‐ion Batteries by Using Ion‐sieving Organic Framework Membrane
Authors: Xu Jie , Yang Yuting , Dai Qingyu , Zheng Zhangyu , Cao Yongjie , Cheng Yuwen , Peng Bo , Ma Lianbo , Wang Yonggang
Published: February 2025

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) offer notable advantages in safety and cost‐efficiency, but Zn dendrite growth and unstable interfacial reactions hinder their commercial viability. A crucial factor in addressing these challenges lies in optimizing the separator to regulate ion transport and stabilize electrode interfaces. Herein, we propose a covalent organic framework (COF)‐based separator with quasi‐single‐ion conduction, specifically a Zn2+‐substituted sulfonate COF (COF‐Zn) membrane, designed to tackle these issues. Featuring a high Zn transference number (0.87) and a thin 25 μm profile, the COF‐Zn separator allows for reduced electrolyte usage (20 μL mg‐1) while effectively minimizing cathode dissolution. Its quasi‐single‐ion conductivity and electronegative properties improve Zn anode’s stability by lowering water activity. This separator enables ultra‐stable AZIBs, as demonstrated in various full cells including Zn//4,5,9,10‐pyrenetetrone (PTO), Zn//I2 and Zn//V2O5. Remarkably, the Zn//PTO cell achieves an energy density of 260 Wh kg‐1, 100% capacity retention under reduced electrolyte conditions, and stable all‐weather cycling from –40 to +100°C with a customized electrolyte.
π‐Extended Heli(aminoborane)s with Highly Bright Circularly Polarized Luminescence and Narrowband Emission
Authors: Yu Yang , Wang Chang , Hung Faan-Fung , Jiang Long , Che Chi-Ming , Liu Junzhi
Published: February 2025

Helical molecular carbons (HMCs) possess high absorption/luminescence dissymmetry factors (gabs/glum) and significant luminescence quantum yield (Φlum), resulting in a high circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) brightness (BCPL), which is essential for the development of CPL materials for practical applications. Herein, we designed and synthesized a series of boron‐nitrogen (BN)‐doped HMCs, named π‐extended heli(aminoborane)s (E[10]HAB‐A, E[10]HAB‐B and E[10]HAB‐C), consisting of laterally π‐extended [10]helicene skeleton with alternating N and B atoms at the inner rim. The aromaticity, electronic structures, and photophysical properties of E[10]HAB‐A/B/C were systematically investigated through experiments and theoretical calculations. E[10]HAB‐A/B/C displayed remarkable photophysical properties, including high molar extinction coefficient and bright narrowband emission. The isolated enantiomers of E[10]HAB‐A/B/C exhibited intense circular dichroism (CD) and CPL, in which E[10]HAB‐A shows gabs and glum values up to 0.024 and 0.017, simultaneously with high Φlum of 82% and a narrow full width at half maximum of 16 nm. Accordingly, E[10]HAB‐A exhibits a BCPL as high as 583 M−1 cm−1, which is the largest value among the reported BN‐doped HMCs. Our study indicates that inner rim BN‐doping and π‐extension are effective strategies to achieve high Φlum and balanced glum values in HMCs.
Foot arch height, arch stiffness, and intrinsic muscle size are not strongly associated with daily physical activity levels in a cross‐sectional study of adults in the United States
Authors: Lauer Chloé , Holowka Nicholas B. , Worthington Steven , Kraft Thomas S. , Wallace Ian J.
Published: February 2025

The feet of people in non‐industrial societies often have higher, stiffer longitudinal arches (LAs) and larger intrinsic muscles than those of many people in post‐industrial societies. The prevailing explanation for this phenomenon is that people in post‐industrial societies commonly wear shoes that restrict foot mobility, while people in non‐industrial societies are often habitually barefoot or minimally shod. However, people in post‐industrial societies also tend to be less physically active than in non‐industrial societies, and it is possible that this, too, is a major determinant of their foot form and function. Here, we test the hypothesis that among people in post‐industrial societies, lower physical activity levels are associated with lower, less stiff LAs and smaller intrinsic muscles. In a cross‐sectional analysis of 40 adults in the United States, none of whom were habitually barefoot or minimally shod, we measured daily physical activity using accelerometry, LA height and static stiffness using photography, LA dynamic stiffness using kinematic and kinetic data, and intrinsic muscle size using ultrasound. Using Bayesian models, we found very low probabilities of positive associations between physical activity (step count, time spent in moderate‐to‐vigorous activity) and LA height, LA static stiffness, and muscle size. For LA dynamic stiffness, we found small to moderate probabilities of positive associations with physical activity variables. These findings suggest that physical activity is unlikely a major determinant of variation in LA and intrinsic muscle form and function among post‐industrial societies. It remains possible that physical activity affects LA and intrinsic muscle traits, but perhaps primarily among people who are habitually barefoot or minimally shod.
Charge Neutral Europium(III) Complex as a Highly Efficient Fluorescent Probe for Detection of Inorganic and Organic Anions
Authors: Markiewicz Grzegorz , Stefankiewicz Artur Ryszard
Published: February 2025

The development of efficient fluorescent sensors for detecting anions is of paramount importance due to the critical roles that anions play in biological systems, environmental processes, and industrial applications. Sensitive and selective detection methods are essential for monitoring anions in complex and competitive environments. Herein, we report the synthesis and photochemical properties of a novel fluorescent sensor designed for the detection of inorganic and organic anions in competitive media. The sensor is based on a charge‐neutral europium (III) complex, formed through the coordination of Eu3+ ions with a β‐diketonate ligand, resulting in a 3:1 complex featuring three urea functional groups positioned outside the metal coordination sphere. In solution, this complex exhibits intense reddish fluorescence, which remains stable even at very low concentrations (10‐6m). Photochemical studies revealed that the fluorescence of the complex is quenched upon binding to anions via the urea groups, enabling its use as a quantitative and qualitative probe for anion detection. Remarkably, the complex maintains high sensitivity and selectivity towards anions in competitive media, with association constants reaching up to 4.9 × 105m‐1. These results highlight the potential of this europium(III) complex as a highly efficient tool for detecting anionic species in challenging environments.
Prenatal Opioid Use Disorder and the Risk of Congenital Anomalies in Offspring: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Ramage Kaylee , Yee Jennifer , Srugo Sebastian , Little Julian , Liu Shiliang
Published: February 2025

Objective

To examine whether prenatal opioid use disorder (OUD) diagnosis is associated with the risk of congenital anomalies (CAs) in offspring.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based study of mother–newborn dyads comprising.

4143 761 births delivered in Canada from 2006 to 2021. We used robust Poisson regression to examine the association between prenatal OUD diagnosis and risk of non‐chromosomal CAs, adjusted for maternal age, parity, multiple gestation, co‐morbidities (including mental health disorders, chronic illnesses and other substance use disorders), and infant sex.

Results

We identified a total of 21, 638 births to persons who were diagnosed with prenatal OUD and 65, 992 (159.3 per 10,000) newborns with CAs. The overall risk of CAs was 2.3 times higher in infants born to birthing persons with a diagnosis of OUD (95% CI 2.2, 2.5). Compared to those without OUD diagnoses, births to persons with a diagnosis of OUD had a higher risk of specific types of congenital microcephaly (aRR 5.2, 95% CI 4.1, 6.6), cleft palate (RR 4.8, 95% CI 3.7, 6.1), pulmonary valve atresia with intact ventricular septum (aRR 2.7, 95% CI 1.1, 6.7), and atrial septal defect (aRR 3.1, 95% CI 2.8, 3.5), among others. In particular, infants born to those with an OUD diagnosis had a 1.8 (95% CI 1.4, 2.3)‐fold increased risk of having severe congenital heart disease.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest an association between prenatal OUD diagnosis and certain CAs in the offspring. Future research is necessary to better understand the role of socio‐demographic factors on these associations.
Evaluation of Nanocurcumin Effects on Depressive‐Like Behaviors in Rats and Determination of Serum BDNF and Serotonin Levels
Authors: Jahromi Mahsa Hadipour , Charousaei Hasti , Charousaei Ali
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent psychiatric condition worldwide, and it is the leading cause of disability globally. Turmeric, an aromatic perennial herb widely used in traditional Asian medicine and cuisine, contains curcumin, which has several biological effects, including a pseudoantidepressant effect. However, curcumin's low bioavailability limits its effectiveness. This study evaluated nanocurcumin (NCUR) effects on depressive‐like behaviors and examined serum BDNF and serotonin levels in a chronic stress model in rats. Behavioral assessments and biochemical indicators elucidated NCUR's antidepressant‐like properties.

Methods

In this experimental study, 30 adult male rats were randomly divided into six groups and exposed to unexpected chronic mild stress (UCMS). The groups included: control (CG), stress control (SCG), fluoxetine (FLU) treatment (20 mg/kg), and three NCUR doses (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg). Before UCMS exposure, rats underwent a sucrose preference test (SPT). Depressive behaviors were then assessed using the open field test (OFT), forced swimming test (FST), and tail suspension test (TST) on days 27 and 28. Blood samples were collected on day 28 to measure serum Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and serotonin levels using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

NCUR treatment significantly alleviated depressive‐like behaviors in stressed rats. The sucrose preference index of the SCG decreased after 26 days of stress, while NCUR (all doses) and FLU reversed this effect. In the FST and TST, immobility time was significantly reduced in the NCUR and FLU groups compared to the SCG (p < 0.05). The OFT also showed that the SCG had significantly fewer crossings compared to treated groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, NCUR treatment significantly increased serum BDNF and serotonin levels compared to the SCG.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that NCUR exerts antidepressant‐like effects, improving depressive behaviors and increasing BDNF and serotonin levels in rats exposed to chronic stress. NCUR may offer a promising alternative for the treatment of MDD.
Alternations of Plasma Fatty Acids in Patients With Bipolar Depression Under Acute Treatment of rTMS Combined With Quetiapine and Mood Stabilizer
Authors: Yu Huan , Liang Xue‐jun , Qiao Yu‐ting , Guo Lin , Li Zhao‐yang , Zhou Cui‐hong , Wu Wen‐jun , Li Rui , Peng Zheng‐wu
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) represents a potential clinical tool in treating bipolar disorder (BD). However, the intervention of rTMS combined with pharmacotherapy on the plasma fatty acids (FAs) in patients with bipolar depression has not been reported yet.

Method

In this study, we assessed the clinical symptoms and evaluated plasma FAs from 30 inpatients with bipolar depression at baseline phase (BD group), after 2 weeks of treatment with rTMS combined with quetiapine and mood stabilizer (BD‐2w group), and 32 healthy controls (HCs).

Finding

We found that acetic acid, propionic acid, isovaleric acid, isobutyric acid, and valeric acid, as well as levels of total short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs), were decreased in both BD and BD‐2w groups, and levels of several medium‐ and long‐chain fatty acids (MLCFAs) were altered in BD when compared with HC. Moreover, 2 weeks of treatment increased the levels of various MLCFAs. Finally, we developed combinational FAs panels that could distinguish BD from HC (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.961), BD‐2w from HC (AUC = 0.978), and BD from BD‐2w (AUC = 0.891) effectively.

Conclusion

These findings might provide a basis for developing diagnostic methods and reveal the potential relationship between bipolar depression and plasma FAs.