bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐year clinical outcomes of Taiwanese and other Asian ethnicities with atrial fibrillation treated with edoxaban in the ETNA‐AF Asia registry
Authors: Wang Chun‐Chieh , Cheng Cheng‐I , Ueng Kwo‐Chang , Lin Wei‐Shiang , Chao Tze‐Fan , Lin Lian‐Yu , Huang Chien‐Lung , Chang Kuan‐Cheng , Mar Guang‐Yuan , Hsieh Yu‐Cheng , Unverdorben Martin , Chen Cathy
Published: January 2025

Background

The non‐vitamin K oral anticoagulant (NOAC), edoxaban, is approved for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) in many Asian countries. Nonetheless, data on its long‐term effectiveness and safety in routine clinical practice are limited in Taiwan.

Methods

The Global ETNA‐AF (Edoxaban Treatment in routiNe clinical prActice) registry is an observational study that integrates data of AF patients receiving edoxaban from multiple regional registries. Here, we report the subgroup analysis of two‐year outcomes in Taiwan (N = 973) and three Asian countries (South Korea, Hong Kong, Thailand; N = 2326).

Results

Compared with other Asian ethnicities, edoxaban users in Taiwan were older and had lower creatinine clearance levels. The incidence of clinical events was low and comparable in four Asian countries. Upon 2 years of observation, the annualized rates of cardiovascular death and ischemic stroke/systemic embolic event were 0.50% and 0.90% in Taiwan and 0.33% and 0.91% in other Asian ethnicities, respectively. The annualized rates of major/clinically relevant non‐major bleeding and major gastrointestinal bleeding were 2.06% and 0.39% in Taiwan and 2.06% and 0.49% in other Asian ethnicities, respectively. Intracranial hemorrhage was rarely reported in four Asian countries (annualized rate: 0.35%).

Conclusions

Although some differences in patient characteristics were observed among Asian ethnicities, the low clinical event rates in two‐year ETNA‐AF data reassure the effectiveness and safety of edoxaban in routine care for AF patients in Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Thailand.
A novel prediction model for survival in individual patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy with a defibrillator: Analysis of the new Japan cardiac device treatment registry database
Authors: Yokoshiki Hisashi , Shimizu Akihiko , Mitsuhashi Takeshi , Ishibashi Kohei , Kabutoya Tomoyuki , Yoshiga Yasuhiro , Kondo Yusuke , Temma Taro , Takagi Masahiko , Tada Hiroshi ,   Members of the Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator (ICD) Committee of the Japanese Heart Rhythm Society
Published: January 2025

Background

Accurate prediction for survival in individualized patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy with a defibrillator (CRT‐D) is difficult.

Methods

We analyzed the New Japan cardiac device treatment registry (JCDTR) database to develop a survival prediction model for CRT‐D recipients.

Results

Four hundred and eighty‐two CRT‐D recipients, at the implantation year 2018–2021, with a QRS width ≥120 ms and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35% at baseline, were analyzed. During an average follow‐up of 21 ± 10 months, death occurred in 66 of 482 CRT‐D patients (14%). A prediction model estimating annual survival probability was developed using Cox regression with internal validation. With seven explanation predictors (age >75 years, serum creatinine >1.4 mg/dL, blood hemoglobin <12 g/dL, heart rate ≥90/min, LVEF, prior NSVT, and QRS width <150 ms), the model distinguished patients with and without all‐cause death, with an optimism‐corrected C‐statistics of 0.766, 0.764, and 0.768, and calibration slope of 1.01, 1.00, and 1.00 at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years. Additionally, we have devised the calculator of survival probability for individual CRT‐D recipients.

Conclusions

Using routine available variables, we have developed a survival prediction model for individual CRT‐D recipients.
Surface Acting Loss Spirals: Getting Unstuck With Recovery Activities
Authors: Sayre Gordon M. , Chi Nai‐Wen , Grandey Alicia A.
Published: January 2025

In service work, emotional labor is primarily performed by surface acting (modifying expressions) and deep acting (modifying moods). Deep acting is clearly more effective for performance and less costly to health, raising the question—why do employees use the less effective strategy of surface acting? Conservation of resources theory suggests that when employees lack sufficient energy resources, they are more likely to conserve resources and rely on less effective surface acting, which creates future resource loss (i.e., a loss spiral). We test this spiral prediction, while also integrating the effort‐recovery model to propose after‐work activities as a means of slowing resource loss spirals. Across two experience sampling studies of full‐time service workers, we find support for a resource loss spiral through surface acting in Study 1 and partial support in Study 2. Further, low‐effort activities like relaxing after work allowed employees to slow the loss spirals from surface acting in both studies. We conclude that the “poor get poorer” (maintaining surface acting) over time, whereas recovery after work effectively breaks the loss spiral of surface acting. Our study expands theoretical understanding of the resource‐based view of emotional labor and practical advice for how to replenish workers' resources over time.
Analysis of Key Differential Metabolites in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Based on Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Zhou Daqian , Zhang Xingrui , Lv Jiale , Mei Yongliang , Luo Yingjin , Li Fengjiang , Liu Zongchao
Published: January 2025

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration disease (IVDD) is a prevalent orthopedic condition that causes chronic lower back pain, imposing a substantial economic burden on patients and society. Despite its high incidence, the pathophysiological mechanisms of IVDD remain incompletely understood.

Objective

This study aimed to identify metabolomic alterations in IVDD patients and explore the key metabolic pathways and metabolites involved in its pathogenesis.

Methods

Serum samples from 20 IVDD patients and 20 healthy controls were analyzed using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS). The identified metabolites were mapped to metabolic pathways using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database.

Results

Significant alterations were observed in metabolites such as 2‐methyl‐1,3‐cyclohexadiene, stearoyl sphingomyelin, methylcysteine, L‐methionine, and cis, cis‐muconic acid. These metabolites were involved in pathways including glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, cyanoamino acid metabolism, and the citrate cycle (TCA cycle).

Conclusion

The identified metabolic alterations provide insights into the pathogenesis of IVDD and suggest potential therapeutic targets for future investigation.
North American river otter habitat suitability and human–wildlife coexistence on Protection Island, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Lesage Caroline L. , Kross Angela , Turner Sarah E.
Published: January 2025

Land use change and urban sprawl increase the likelihood of encounters between humans and wildlife. North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) coexist (and also conflict) with humans in many places, including on Protection Island, British Columbia, Canada. River otters are sensitive to, yet also inhabit, environments with relatively high levels of anthropogenic disturbance. From June to November 2022, we investigated the effect of anthropogenic factors on river otter use of space and behavior. We modeled the relative importance of anthropogenic (e.g., distance to buildings and roads, level of human use of docks), environmental (e.g., land cover type), and topographic (elevation) variables for habitat suitability in wild river otters on Protection Island using maximum entropy (MaxEnt) species distribution models, from 660 occurrence points collected. We conducted 178 behavioral scan samples (containing 594 observations) from direct‐observation video and motion‐triggered trail camera video to evaluate behavioral differences associated with the use of an anthropogenic habitat feature, docks (a potential attractant), and land. We found that the most suitable areas for river otters in this study were near docks (at all levels of human use), near water or wetlands (within ~25 m of the water), and had intermediate densities of driftwood. Further, our findings indicated that human activities generally did not impede otter use of space — river otters and humans were able to coexist in this semi‐urban context. Behaviors on docks differed from behaviors on land, and river otters used docks more than would be expected by chance overall, and specifically overnight, and used docks for individual and social activities. Our case study suggests that anthropogenic and environmental factors are key habitat suitability predictors for river otters, and that in populations habituated to human presence, docks may act as a habitat attractant. This case can inform conservation and management practices for river otters, other flagship species, and the ecosystems they inhabit, enhancing human–wildlife coexistence in anthropogenic landscapes.
Operationalizing a learning health system: A self‐assessment tool for interprofessional teams
Authors: Rentes Victor C. , Kalpakjian Claire , Sales Anne , Krumm Andrew
Published: January 2025

Background

The operationalization of learning health system (LHS) principles remains challenging, with minimal guidance currently available to support interprofessional teams on the ground. Consequently, LHS initiatives often fall short of their intended objectives, resulting in wasted resources, delays, and mounting frustration among key stakeholders.

Methods

To bridge this gap, we used design science and participatory action research to co‐develop an operational roadmap for interprofessional LHS teams. Data sources for roadmap design included quantitative and qualitative feedback from interprofessional stakeholders (n = 20) from an academic health system and a pragmatic literature review. Using these data sources, we conducted three design iterations until a final version was reached.

Results

The resulting roadmap specifies processes to be performed during project‐based LHS initiatives, and provides a self‐assessment tool that enables team members to quantitatively evaluate progress. For generalizability and standardization across settings, we used clinically neutral terminology to describe all elements in the roadmap. We demonstrated content validity through multiple rounds of data collection and analyses with stakeholders. A simulated demonstration is provided to illustrate how the roadmap may be used for team assessments in practice.

Conclusions

Participants considered the roadmap to be an effective tool to assist project management and highly useful for evaluating teams' progress for planning and communication purposes. As a reference model, the roadmap may be re‐utilized across multiple LHS initiatives in any given health system to standardize and streamline LHS development. This research was conducted within a single department in an academic health system, and future research is needed to assess the roadmap's generalizability in other settings. To facilitate development of similar or complementary instruments, the detailed design methodology used in this research may be replicated and/or tailored in other contexts.
Novel antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus without detectable resistance by targeting proton motive force and FtsH
Authors: Pengfei She , Yifan Yang , Linhui Li , Yimin Li , Dan Xiao , Shaowei Guo , Guanqing Huang , Yong Wu
Published: January 2025

The increased prevalence of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and its biofilms poses a great threat to human health. Especially, S. aureus‐related osteomyelitis was hardly cured even by conventional antibiotics combined with surgical treatment. The development of novel structural antibiotics is urgently needed. By high‐throughput screening and rational design, we identified a small molecule C218‐0546 and its optimized analog STK848198 with great antimicrobial potential against MRSA avoiding resistance occurrence. And significant synergistical antimicrobial effects were found between the molecules and conventional antibiotics. Mechanisms studies by transcriptomics, fluorescent probes, molecule dynamics, and plasma surface resonance indicated that the proton motive force as well as FtsH are the main potential targets of these molecules. The compounds exhibited excellent in vivo pharmacokinetics, toxicity profiles, and antimicrobial activities in the abscess model as well as the peritonitis‐sepsis model. In addition, STK848198 was found to be effective against MRSA biofilms by interacting with the quorum sensing system. STK848198 also showed in vivo efficacy in the periprosthetic joint infection model. In all, our study identified a class of antimicrobials with novel scaffolds that could be potential alternatives for the treatment of MRSA and its biofilm‐related infections.
Analysis of crop suitability index for current and future climates using statistically downscaled CMIP6 outputs over Africa
Authors: Gbode Imoleayo Ezekiel , Ajayi Vincent Olanrewaju , Coulibaly Amadou , Abel Daniel , Ziegler Katrin , Weber Torsten , Traore Seydou Brehima , Raji Ibraheem Ayomide , Paeth Heiko
Published: January 2025

The study aimed to assess the impact of climate change on the crop suitability index (CSI) of selected staple crops for current (1981–2010) and future (2021–2050 and 2051–2080) climates across Africa. Precipitation and mean temperature data from gridded observations, and 10 Global Climate Models (GCMs) were utilized to calculate the CSI for maize, soybean, wheat, plantain, cassava, rice, millet, sorghum, and yam. The Ecocrop model implemented in R, utilizing the FAO‐Ecocrop database alongside climatic variables for different climatic zones across the continent, was employed to compute the CSI. The results indicate that all crops, except rain‐fed rice, are suitable in parts of West and Central African regions, with wheat being inclusive in some parts of the Guinea Coast. The northern, eastern, and southern African regions are identified as the least suitable for any crop production based on the balance between the base climate parameters over the historical period. Analysis over this historical period reveals an increasing trend for major crops in most regions, except for wheat crop production, which demonstrates a decreasing trend in most areas. Projection analysis reveals that the Sahel region is expected to be the most affected by climate change, with a significant reduction in the suitability index for most crops. Conversely, the Southeastern Africa and the Guinea Coast regions are likely to be the least affected, as the suitability index increases for the considered crops. This analysis provides crucial information for effective agricultural planning and resource allocation, optimizing land use by identifying crops aligned with prevailing environmental conditions, including soil type, climate, and water availability. Such information enhances the understanding of crop suitability, contributing to improved agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Minimally invasive measurement of carotid artery and brain temperature in the mouse
Authors: Gazdzinski Lisa M. , Chung Luke , Spring Shoshana , Botelho Owen , Stefanovic Bojana , Nieman Brian J. , Heyn Chinthaka C. , Sled John G.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Brain temperature is tightly regulated and reflects a balance between cerebral metabolic heat production and heat transfer between the brain, blood, and external environment. Blood temperature and flow are critical to the regulation of brain temperature. Current methods for measuring in vivo brain and blood temperature are invasive and impractical for use in small animals. This work presents a methodology to measure both brain and arterial blood temperature in anesthetized mice by MRI using a paramagnetic lanthanide complex: thulium tetramethyl‐1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid (TmDOTMA‐).

Methods

A phase‐based imaging approach using a multi‐TE gradient echo sequence was used to measure the temperature‐dependent chemical shift difference between thulium tetramethyl‐1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid methyl protons and water, and from this calculate absolute temperature using calibration data.

Results

In a series of mice in which core body temperature was held stable but at different values within the range of 33° to 37°C, brain temperature away from the midline was independent of carotid artery blood temperature. In contrast, midline voxels correlated with carotid artery blood temperature, likely reflecting the preponderance of larger arteries and veins in this region.

Conclusion

These results are consistent with brain temperature being actively regulated. A limitation of the present implementation is that the spatial resolution in the brain is coarse relative to the size of the mouse brain, and further optimization is required for this method to be applied for finer spatial scale mapping or to characterize focal pathology.
Perceptions of Obesity Among Healthcare Professionals and Policy Makers in 2023: Results of the Global OPEN Survey
Authors: Dixon John B. , Abdul Ghani Rohana , Sbraccia Paolo
Published: January 2025

Objective

Obesity is a disease with severe health impacts on individuals and economic impacts on society, yet healthcare practitioners (HCPs) and policy makers often fail to address it. This survey was conducted to examine current global obesity care and perceptions influencing care delivery among HCPs and healthcare decision makers (HC DMs).

Methods

A survey with a cross‐sectional design was conducted among 1200 HCPs (primary care providers, endocrinologists, cardiologists, and nurses) and 414 HC DMs from eight countries across five continents. Respondents' perceptions of obesity, characteristics of patient populations, obesity management practices, and obesity‐related healthcare policies were collected. Surveys were administered online from June–July 2023. All respondent data were anonymized.

Results

Among HCPs, 26.4% and 29.0% of HC DMs considered obesity a chronic disease, and 44.6% of HCPs reported that obesity was recorded as a chronic disease in patients' medical records. The pattern of responses was consistent across countries and professional roles. Obesity care approaches focused on lifestyle concerns. HCPs and HC DMs appeared to overestimate the provision of obesity‐related medical care for affected patients.

Conclusion

These results corroborate prior findings that many HCPs do not consider obesity a disease, which hinders initiation of appropriate treatment, and also highlight challenges in obesity management, including gaps in obesity guidelines and accessibility to healthcare. These findings may help guide education and outreach by health authorities as well as HCPs.
Have People Treated With Antihypertensives Been Diagnosed With Hypertension? A Cross‐Sectional Study in Stockholm, Sweden
Authors: Treciokiene Indre , Forslund Tomas , Kahan Thomas , Taxis Katja , Wettermark Björn
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Studies on antihypertensive treatment are important, as hypertension remains the major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and premature death. However, antihypertensive medicines are also used for other conditions, and the use of these medicines as a proxy for a diagnosis of hypertension might lead to misclassification in pharmacoepidemiological studies. This study aimed to investigate to what extent people dispensed antihypertensive medicines have been diagnosed with hypertension.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study with data covering all healthcare and all dispensed prescriptions of antihypertensive medicines 2019 and diagnoses recorded 2015–2019 from the Stockholm Region, Sweden. Multinomial logistic regressions were used to assess the probability of having hypertension concerning age, sex, and antihypertensive drug class.

Results

A total of 386 860 individuals were included, 49% men, 12% incident users, and 80% of all had a recorded diagnosis of hypertension. In 73% of incident users, only one antihypertensive drug class was dispensed, as compared to 36% of prevalent users. A total of 38% of incident users and 9% of prevalent users had none of the diagnoses selected for the study recorded in any health record during 5 years. Prevalent and older users over the age of 65 from high (50%–79%) to very high (80% and more) probability of a recorded diagnosis of hypertension. Patients on antiadrenergic agents, high‐ceiling diuretics, aldosterone antagonists, or beta receptor blockers had a lower probability of having a recorded diagnosis of hypertension than patients dispensed angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, or calcium channel blockers.

Conclusion

Most patients dispensed antihypertensive medicines have a diagnosis of hypertension. However, caution is needed using data on dispensed medicines to classify incident antihypertensive users and younger patients as having a diagnosis of hypertension.
Fresh Pineapple Agronomy in the Republic of Benin: Recent Trends in Calcium Carbide Use and Producer Perceptions
Authors: Fassinou Hotegni Nicodème , Linkpon Orthia L. F. , Adjé Charlotte A. O. , Salaou Mouizz A. B. , Achigan‐Dako Enoch G.
Published: January 2025

Pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merrill) is among the main fruits produced in West Africa. This is also the case for the Republic of Benin, where pineapple fruit is regarded as an important crop for numerous producers in the Southern part of the country. However, crop production is constrained by various issues, the major one being poor yield caused by current agronomic practices. This has become a bottleneck that affects high‐quality fruit production. The objective of this research was to (i) conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current fresh pineapple production system with a focus on trends over a decade and (ii) explore the compounds used to artificially induce flowering of pineapple plants, along with the perception of fresh pineapple producers on the use of calcium carbide (CaC2) on their health. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 308 producers. Our results indicate that agronomic practices were diverse, with the involvement of more women in pineapple production over the last decade. A decrease in the involvement of young people was also observed. Cv. Sugarloaf remains the main cultivar grown, with a slight increase in cv. Smooth Cayenne. Increasing numbers of pineapple producers applied chemical fertilizers, with an increase in the use of potassium sulphate (K2SO4). Artificial flowering induction practices such as adding (i) petroleum/motor oil, (ii) cooking salt, (iii) liquid fertilizer (“Super Gro”), or (iv) urea to calcium carbide were reported, as well as health issues related to the use of calcium carbide. The research highlights the need for further studies on the use of alternatives to calcium carbide for artificial flowering induction in pineapple production in Benin.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Training as a Brief Intervention for Cigarette Smoking by Patients With Cancer: A Scoping Review and Narrative Synthesis of Related Literature
Authors: McCall Marcia H. , Boyd Charlotte T. , Kerr Nicole D. , Daniel Stephanie S. , Sutfin Erin L.
Published: January 2025

Objective

Novel behavioral interventions are needed for patients with cancer who smoke cigarettes. Standard tobacco treatment may not effectively address the psychological distress and/or emotion dysregulation that makes quitting smoking difficult for many patients. Dialectical Behavior Therapy–Skills Training (DBT‐ST) has demonstrated efficacy as a brief intervention for managing emotions and stress across varied populations but has not been adapted for patients with cancer who smoke. To determine its suitability for this population, we conducted a scoping review of brief DBT‐ST with similar populations: people with substance use, breast cancer, or emotion dysregulation.

Methods

We followed PRISMA‐ScR (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses extension for scoping reviews) guidelines. Studies were restricted to English‐language publications of DBT‐ST as a brief intervention of 20 or fewer sessions. We found 26 publications representing 23 research studies, extracted study details, and narratively synthesized the results.

Results

The 23 studies included 12 quasi‐experimental designs, seven pilot randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and four RCTs. All studies found at least one improvement in a main outcome following DBT‐ST intervention, with results maintained at follow‐up. Qualitative outcomes indicated high satisfaction with DBT‐ST and good retention. Studies recruited diverse participants, with some far exceeding population averages. Over half of the studies included only females or males. We found considerable heterogeneity across studies in intervention design, testing, and measurement.

Conclusion

DBT‐ST as a brief intervention for people with substance use, cancer, or emotion dysregulation demonstrates sufficient positive outcomes to adapt this approach for patients with cancer who smoke cigarettes.
Decoding the Torsional Dynamics of Main‐Chain Atoms Within CαNN Motif Facilitating Specific Anion Recognition
Authors: Roy Akash , Johnson Vinith , Das Pramiti , Paul Shuvam , Sahu Subhankar , Banerjee Raja
Published: January 2025

The structural plasticity of proteins at the molecular level is largely dictated by backbone torsion angles, which play a critical role in ligand recognition and binding. To establish the anion‐induced cooperative arrangement of the main‐chain (mc) torsion, herein, we analyzed a set of naturally occurring CαNN motifs as “static models” for their anion‐binding competence through docking and molecular dynamics simulations and decoded its torsion angle influenced mc‐driven anion recognition potential. By comparing a pool of 20 distinct sets of CαNN motif with identical sequences in their “anion bound/present, aP” and “anion free/absent, aA” versions, we could discern that there exists a positive correlation between the “difference of anion residence time (ΔRT)” and “difference among the main‐chain torsion angle” of the aP and aA population. Notably, the anion interaction with CαNNs is locally energetically favorable even in a context‐free non‐proteinaceous environment and if the difference of the mc‐torsion angles involving the Cα−1, N0, N1 residues for a population is higher between the aP and aA state, the difference among the ligand RT is also greater. At the atomistic level, the accommodation of anion is highly synergistic and cooperatively sways the interacting mc‐atom torsions. By comparing the clustering of H‐bonding patterns, the free energy of binding, and RT in both states, we provide evidence that to establish favorable thermodynamics and kinetics of ligand accommodation in these short structural motifs, proper reorientation of local‐mc governed by torsions is a prerequisite. Our findings position the CαNN motif as a promising scaffold for peptidomimetic design and emphasize the critical role of loop region dynamics in protein structure–function relationships.
Mechanisms and pharmacotherapy of cancer cachexia‐associated anorexia
Authors: Sato Ryosuke , da Fonseca Guilherme Wesley Peixoto , das Neves Willian , von Haehling Stephan
Published: January 2025

Cachexia is a multifactorial metabolic syndrome characterized by weight and skeletal muscle loss caused by underlying illnesses such as cancer, heart failure, and renal failure. Inflammation, insulin resistance, increased muscle protein degradation, decreased food intake, and anorexia are the primary pathophysiological drivers of cachexia. Cachexia causes physical deterioration and functional impairment, loss of quality of life, lower response to active treatment, and ultimately morbidity and mortality, while the difficulties in tackling cachexia in its advanced phases and the heterogeneity of the syndrome among patients require an individualized and multidisciplinary approach from an early stage. Specifically, strategies combining nutritional and exercise interventions as well as pharmacotherapy that directly affect the pathogenesis of cachexia, such as anti‐inflammatory, metabolism‐improving, and appetite‐stimulating agents, have been proposed, but none of which have demonstrated sufficient evidence to date. Nevertheless, several agents have recently emerged, including anamorelin, a ghrelin receptor agonist, growth differentiation factor 15 neutralization therapy, and melanocortin receptor antagonist, as candidates for ameliorating anorexia associated with cancer cachexia. Therefore, in this review, we outline cancer cachexia‐associated anorexia and its pharmacotherapy, including corticosteroids, progesterone analogs, cannabinoids, anti‐psychotics, and thalidomide which have been previously explored for their efficacy, in addition to the aforementioned novel agents, along with their mechanisms.
Discovery of novel flavonoid derivatives containing benzothiazole as potential antifungal agents
Authors: Tian Jiao , Liu Yi , Xin Hui , Hu Chunmei , Li Jieyu , Wang Yuhong , Luo Xingping , Qiu Yujiao , Xue Wei
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Fungal diseases of plants have a serious impact on the quality and yield of crops, and some traditional pesticides can no longer cope with this problem. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop new pesticides with high efficiency and low toxicity.

RESULTS

A series of flavonoid derivatives containing benzothiazole were designed and synthesized. Among them, the compounds V17, V12, and V13 had excellent inhibitory effect against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinu with the half‐maximal effect concentration (EC50) values of 1.2, 2.3, and 3.2 μg/mL, which were better than the control drug Kresoxim‐methyl (Km, 37.8 μg/mL). The in vivo protective activity and curative activities of V17 against cucumber fusarium wilt caused by F. oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum were 82.4 and 60.5% at 200 μg/mL, better than Km (60.2 and 48.6%). In addition, V17 could damage the cell membrane of the mycelia, which can be confirmed by determination of cytoplasmic leakage, detection of cell membrane permeability, and measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA). Similarly, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) experiment and optical microscope characterization provide direct evidence for destruction of mycelium treated with V17.

CONCLUSION

V17 significantly reduced the pathogenicity of the F. oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum, which provided a new idea and direction for the development of green pesticides. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Characterization of the Polarization State of Correlated Stokes–Anti‐Stokes Raman Scattering in Diamond
Authors: Freitas Tiago A. , Machado Paula , Santo Marcelo F. , Monken Carlos H. , Jorio Ado
Published: January 2025

Quantum information research has been through numerous evolutionary stages, and photonic transport is one of the most promising methods for information processing. Within the context of the use of photons for information transportation, Raman spectroscopy, which consists of an optical spectroscopy technique based on the inelastic scatter of light, where the scattered photons carry information from the vibration structure of the medium, is presented as an exciting way for coding and transportation of quantum information. Herein, the phenomenon of correlated Stokes‐anti‐Stokes (SaS) Raman scattering is explored, analyzing the quantum character of the phenomenon. A state tomography is performed to fully characterize the SaS pair's polarization state. During this study, it is possible to observe the influence of the crystallographic orientation of the diamond on the SaS polarization state, which directly influences the entanglement generation. A Clauser, Horne, Shimony, and Holt‐type Bell's inequality measurement is conducted to confirm the entanglement in the polarization of the SaS state.
Tail‐Modeling‐Based Multivariate Process Capability Analysis Approach
Authors: Li Tianlong , Jiang Renyan , Xue Wei
Published: January 2025

A manufacturing process often has multiple quality characteristics and its performance is usually described by a multivariate process capability index (MPCI). A number of MPCIs have been proposed and their performances have been analyzed and compared in the literature. However, the problems of two distance‐based MPCIs have not been noted. On the other hand, process capability analysis generally involves the computation of a high quantile and a small proportion of non‐conformance so that it is computationally challenging to obtain accurate estimates. In this paper, we critically comment on the two distance‐based MPCIs and propose an extreme‐values‐based multivariate process capability analysis approach. The proposed approach focuses on upper‐tail data modeling based on the generalized Pareto distribution and involves a multi‐step procedure, including data transformation and max‐operator‐based aggregation of quality characteristics. Quality bottleneck analysis provides direction for improvement. For this purpose, the concept of data upper‐tail total deviation (UTTD) is introduced as a nonparametric measure for quick evaluation of process capabilities of individual quality characteristics. A real‐world example is analyzed. The results show that compared with the distance‐based approaches the proposed approach provides a more accurate process capability estimate and the quality bottlenecks can be correctly identified based on the UTTD.
Improvement of Hydrophobic Surface and Mechanical Properties of Beta‐Hemihydrate Desulfurization Gypsum by Graphene Modification
Authors: Zhenzhen Zhi , Yanfei Guo , Liting Wang , Binbin Dong , Tiekun Jia
Published: January 2025

Beta‐hemihydrate desulfurization gypsum (β‐HDG) is considered one of the green and low‐carbon building materials, which is widely used in the fields of construction materials and decoration. Nevertheless, its inherent deficiency in water resistance and other drawbacks significantly limit its application scope. In this study, the gypsum‐based materials with surfaces that exhibit hydrophobic properties were prepared. The surface contact angle was analyzed to examine the surface hydrophobic characteristics. The compressive strength, flexural strength, ratio of compressive strength to flexural strength, water absorption rate, and softening coefficient of hardened specimens were measured to assess the mechanical properties. Furthermore, the pore structure and microstructure of hardened specimens were characterized to evaluate the impact of hydrophobically modified reduced graphene oxide (H@rGO). Furthermore, when the content of H@rGO was 0.15 wt%, the thermal conductivity of specimen was 0.55 W/m•K with optimal mechanical properties; the surface hydrophobicity of the hardened sample was significantly improved, with the surface contact angle, water drop penetration time, and softening coefficient reaching 113.898°, 567s, and 0.77, respectively. This enhancement was accompanied by a reduction in pore size and total porosity in the hardened samples, thereby contributing to the improved softening coefficient and mechanical properties of gypsum‐based composites. Because of lower energy consumption in H@rGO process and extensive utilization of industrial solid waste, the preparation process of incorporating H@rGO into β‐HDG exhibits superior cost‐effectiveness.
Methods and Prospects for Enhancing Heterogeneous Fenton Catalytic Activity
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Liangliang , Wang Junxia , He Xinyi , Wang Shiyu , Yan Aobo , Zhang Zhongchi , Li Gege , Li Yongfei
Published: January 2025

As an advanced oxidation process that can efficiently remove organic pollutants in water, Fenton oxidation has attracted much attention in recent years. Compared to homogeneous Fenton, it has a wider applicability, a wide pH range, higher degradation efficiency, lower environmental impact, and lower treatment cost. However, the heterogeneous Fenton reaction also has some limitations, such as the deactivation of the catalyst, the reaction rate being limited by the solid–liquid interface mass transfer. Therefore, the development of efficient and stable heterogeneous Fenton catalytic system is the focus of Fenton reaction research at present. In this paper, the research of heterogeneous Fenton catalysis are introduced, and the construction characteristics and catalytic mechanism of iron base, copper base, transition metals and their oxides, chelating agents, carbon materials, supported catalysts, and photocatalysis are systematically summarized. In addition, the strategies for the formation of FeII and the promotion of H2O2 decomposition were discussed, and the mechanism and pathway of the heterogeneous Fenton catalyst for the efficient degradation of organic matter were summarized in order to provide technical support for further research on heterogeneous Fenton catalysts.
Adsorption and Recovery of Neodymium and Praseodymium from Magnet Waste NdFeB Using a Novel Pyridine Schiff Base Compound
Authors: Weshahy Ahmed. A. , Gouda Ayman A. , Shohaib Ragaa El Sheikh , Atia Bahig M. , Gado Mohamed A.
Published: January 2025

This study presents a novel approach for synthesizing (pyridine‐2,5‐diylbis(azaneylylidene) bis(ethan‐1‐yl‐2‐ylidene))bis(benzene‐5,1,3‐triyl) tetrakis(4‐formylbenzoate) to address the growing demand and limited supply of Nd(III) and Pr(III) metal ions. The material, created through Schiff base formation and esterification, aims to enhance the recovery and utilization efficiency of Nd(III) and Pr(III) from solutions. The PYBE adsorbent selectively adsorbs these ions, and its properties were confirmed using FTIR, SEM, TGA, ¹H NMR, ¹3C NMR, and mass spectrometry. Adsorption efficiency was tested under varying conditions, including pH, adsorbent dosage, contact time, solution concentration, and the presence of coexisting ions. The results followed a pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model, with equilibrium isotherms well described by Langmuir, Temkin, and Dubinin–Radushkevich models. The PYBE adsorbent demonstrated high sorption capacities—384.62 mg/g for Nd(III) and 357.14 mg/g for Pr(III) at pH 6. Thermodynamic analysis revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. The material also successfully recovered Nd(III) and Pr(III) from waste Neodymium‐Iron‐Boron (NdFeB) magnets, yielding high‐purity Nd₂O₃ and Pr₆O₁₁. The adsorption mechanism, driven by chemisorption, aligned with the Langmuir and D–R isotherm models. This innovative PYBE material demonstrates significant potential for efficient rare earth metal recovery, addressing a critical need for sustainable resource management.
A Comparative Study of the Reinforcing Behavior of Lignin in Polar and Non‐Polar Rubbers
Authors: Palanisamy Kavipriyaa Annathainaicker , Tahir Muhammad , Chanda Jagannath , Ghosh Prasenjit , Mukhopadhyay Rabindra , Kundu Arpita , Mandal Subhradeep , Wießner Sven , Banerjee Susanta , Das Amit
Published: January 2025

Bio‐based resources as reinforcing agents for elastomers is an important area of research. In this study, different types of lignin were employed as reinforcing fillers for different synthetic elastomers. Polychloroprene (CR), a polar rubber, and solution styrene butadiene rubber (SSBR), a non‐polar rubber, were used as matrix materials. Results showed that elastomers filled with Kraft lignin exhibited better mechanical performance than those filled with lignosulfonate. Without chemical modification, Kraft lignin effectively reinforced polar polychloroprene rubber, increasing its tensile strength by 3.5 times, modulus by 2 times, and elongation at the break by 2 times. However, for non‐polar SSBR, the use of lignin surface modifiers such as alkyl isocyanates improved the dispersion and reinforcing efficiency of Kraft lignin. Particularly, in this SSBR system the elongation at break values crossed 900%, which is very high for synthetic rubber like SSBR. A noticeable improvement in lignin dispersion was observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy when in situ surface modification of the lignin was done with alkyl isocyanates. To understand the reinforcing effect of Kraft lignin, various mechanical, dynamic mechanical, and physical tests were conducted with the rubber composites.
Gradient Porous and Carbon Black‐Integrated Cellulose Acetate Aerogel for Scalable Radiative Cooling
Authors: Park Soojin , Choi Junyeol , Lee Jeongwoo , Seo Junyong , Lee Jaemin , Kim Jiheon , Hong Myounggi , Lee Donghyun , Park Jisoo , Park Jinwoo , Choi Wonjoon
Published: January 2025

Passive temperature controls like passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC)‐heating (PDRH), and thermal insulation are essential to meet the growing demand for energy‐efficient thermal solutions. When combined with advanced functions like electromagnetic interference shielding, these technologies can significantly enhance scalability. However, existing approaches using single thin films or uniform porous materials face inherent limitations in optimizing versatile functions, while lightweight, insulating aerogels can extend their multifunctionality by manipulating pores and fillers. Herein, carbon black (CB)‐containing cellulose acetate (CA)aerogels (CB/CA aerogel) featuring gradient pores and bilayer structures are devised to implement switchable PDRC‐PDRH and broadband spectral emissivity from infrared to microwave, along with high thermal insulation and elasticity. Using stirring and freeze‐drying methods, the CA aerogels show low thermal conductivity (≈0.034 W mK−1) and demonstrate broad‐spectrum functionality, with over 95.7% solar reflectivity and 93% long‐wavelength infrared (LWIR) emittance, achieving a 12.25 °C temperature reduction in outdoor conditions. Furthermore, the CB/CA aerogels enhance LWIR emittance to 98.7% and provide broadband spectral emissivity with 39.4% microwave absorption. This study offers a viable solution to simultaneously control radiative cooling and microwave absorption across a broad spectrum in porous media.
Conductive Hydrogel Systems Enabling Rapid and Controllable Release of Guests at Low‐Voltage Region
Authors: Shi Yulong , Tang Ziran , Li Chenzi , Miao Yuqing , Zhu Liangliang , Yue Bingbing
Published: January 2025

Smart delivery materials that respond to electric fields attract interest across various fields, whereas systems enabling rapid, controllable, and safe delivery capabilities remain essential. Based on the hypothesis of utilizing electric field to manipulate inter‐component noncovalent bonds in delivery materials, a hydrogel system is hereby reported that is capable of achieving rapid guest release at low‐voltage region. This system harnesses the synergistic regulation of electric field‐induced host‐guest electrostatic repulsion, alongside the dynamic modulation of H‐bond interactions within the conductive hydrogel. Consequently, a voltage of 1.5 V influences the multi‐component non‐covalent crosslinking, inducing reversible pore size enlargement, and achieving an accelerated yet controlled release of 39–48% within 120 min at 1.5 V, with a low‐threshold release voltage of 0.5 V. This conductive hydrogel system enables the rapid and controlled release of various guest molecules, including drugs, fluorescent probes, and luminophores, underscoring the universality of the strategy. Furthermore, an electrical control device constructed from such hydrogel blocks is demonstrated, which is capable of performing “time‐specific” information encoding and access. The mechanism relies on physical processes, avoiding traditional redox reactions, thereby inspiring the development of safe and efficient electrically responsive materials and devices with diverse functionalities, leveraging the synergistic effect of multi‐component non‐covalent interactions.
Ultrafast, Robust, and Reversible Self‐Assembled Nanofibers via Thiolactone Chemistry Strategy
Authors: Li Haonan , Li Chunmei , Ren Hua , Cai Yingchao , Tan Jiaojun , Huang Xinyi , Yin Dezhong , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: January 2025

Self‐assembly in supramolecular chemistry is crucial for nanostructure creation but faces challenges like slow speeds and lack of reversibility. In this study, a novel comb‐like polymer poly(amide sulfide) (PAS) based on thiolactone chemistry is reported, which rapidly self‐assemble into stable nanofibers, offering excellent robustness and reversibility in the self‐assembled structure. The PAS backbone contains pairs of amide bonds, each linked to an alkyl side chain in a controlled 2:1 ratio. The polymer rapidly forms fibrillar micelles driven by the hydrophobic side chains and then undergoes hydrogen‐bonded cross‐linking between the main‐chain amide bonds to form stable nanofibers. N, N‐dimethylacetamide/LiCl solution allows for reversible regulation of nanofiber self‐assembly, without altering the fiber properties. It is anticipated that this line of research will enrich the field of macromolecular self‐assembly with important advances toward the realization of ultrafast, robust, and reversible self‐assembly systems.
Improved Operational Lifetime of MAPbI3 Solar Cells Encapsulated with Parylene‐N
Authors: Zagorovskaia Kseniia , Trepalin Oleg , Krasionov Ivan , Luchkin Sergey , Krasnikov Dmitry V. , Nasibulin Albert G. , Boldyreva Aleksandra G.
Published: January 2025

Herein, unsubstituted poly‐para‐xylylene (parylene‐N) film as an encapsulation material for MAPbI3 perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is assessed. Unlike more commonly used parylene‐C, parylene‐N is cheaper and does not contain Cl which makes it a promising encapsulant for perovskite materials. Being deposited by room temperature chemical vapor deposition in a vacuum, 2 mm‐thick parylene film stabilizes MAPbI3‐based solar cells and inhibits the degradation even under stress test conditions (85 °C in the air). Moreover, the solar cells, encapsulated with the parylene‐N film and cover glass, show stable characteristics for over 3800 h in a dark ambient atmosphere, retaining 92% of their initial power conversion efficiency. Such results demonstrate the potential of unsubstituted parylene for PSC stabilization, paving the way for novel and highly stable PSCs.
Aerosol‐Jet‐Printed Silver Nanowires as Top Electrodes in Organic Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Arango‐Marín Vanessa , Rocha‐Ortiz Juan S. , Osterrieder Tobias , Barabash Anastasia , Osvet Andres , Wortmann Jonas , Heumüller Thomas , Liu Chao , Hauch Jens , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: January 2025

Aerosol jet printing (AJP) is an effective method for manufacturing organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices for indoor use. Its noncontact deposition, without posttreatment, and high‐resolution 3D pattern printing capabilities make it ideal for using functional nanomaterial inks. This study explores ultrasonic AJP (uAJP) atomization to deposit silver nanowires (AgNW) as the top electrode layer (TEL) in OPV devices. The OPV stack is fabricated up to the hole transport layer using high‐throughput screening (HTS) methodologies. Different deposition techniques, including spin‐coating, blade‐coating, and uAJP of AgNW inks, as well as thermal evaporation of silver, are compared. Scanning electron microscopy analysis shows that the E2X AgNW ink formed a compact TEL layer. Combining HTS setups, right selection of interlayers and uAJP method, automated, solution‐processed OPV devices with power conversion efficiencies of 9.54% on an active layer of 0.0232 cm2 are achieved, the highest reported for OPV devices using uAJP AgNW inks as top electrodes.