bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prostate Extracellular Vesicles and Prognostic Biomarkers of Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer: A Prospective Single‐Institution Pilot Study
Authors: Britton Cameron J. , Andrews Jack R. , Arafa Ali , Kim Yohan , Latuche Laureano Rangel , Schulte Phillip J. , Joshi Vidhu B. , Ahmed Mohamed E. , Jeffrey Karnes R. , Lucien Fabrice 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundCommercial biomarkers and multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) have been utilized to triage men with elevated prostate specific antigen (PSA) and determine patients most likely to harbor clinically‐significant prostate cancer (csPCa). We studied combinations of mpMRI, PSA‐based and novel extracellular vesicle (EV)‐based biomarkers to determine the optimal pre‐biopsy testing to predict csPCa at biopsy.MethodsMen presenting with elevated PSA (≥ 2 ng/mL) were prospectively enrolled and all men underwent clinically indicated mpMRI and blinded study blood draws to determine PSA, prostate health index (PHI) scoring, and EV serum levels. MRI‐fusion transperineal prostate biopsy was performed in all patients. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated, and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed. Bootstrapping analysis was performed to provide more accurate assessment of predictive abilities.ResultsUltimately, 175 consecutive men were prospectively enrolled. Median age in the study population was 65 years. Combinations of biomarkers and MRI demonstrated better predictive ability for csPCa on biopsy than individual modalities. Predictive ability was greatest for PHI density (PHID)‐mpMRI with an AUC of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.80–0.92) while combinations of PSA density ‐mpMRI (AUC: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.73–0.89) and STEAP1‐mpMRI (AUC: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.70–0.86) demonstrated similar ability to predict csPCa. The study is limited by small, predominantly white patient cohort and requires external validation.ConclusionsInclusion of prostate density with biomarkers increases prognostic ability for detecting csPCa. EV density can refine prediction of csPCa and in combination with PHID‐mpMRI leads to superior specificity, thereby decreasing unnecessary biopsies.
Methuselah‐like 2 mediated 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) signaling regulates molting and fecundity in Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae)
Authors: Zhao Xudong , Dong Qiaoqiao , Zhu Haowen , Ding Yuting , Deng Di , Miao Hong , Tan Yongan , Ge LinQuan 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBACKGROUNDG protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) are very promising as the targets of endogenous neuropeptides/neuromodulators that, upon binding to receptors, induce profound changes in insect physiology. The Methuselan/Methuselan‐like subfamily of GPCRs is reported to be associated with longevity and stress resistance. A previous study showed the fungicide jingangmycin‐induced expression of Mthl2 and enhanced stress resistance in Nilaparvata lugens. However, the other physiological functions of Mthl2 remain unelucidated.RESULTSThe Mthl2 was highly expressed before molting and decreased after that until the next ecdysis, showing a cyclical pattern related to molting behavior and predominantly distributed in cuticle‐producing and reproductive tissues in N. lugens. Silencing Mthl2 by RNAi in nymphs disrupted the synthesis of 20E, caused downregulation of the 20E signaling‐related genes, and further affected the transcription of cuticular proteins. Moreover, it led to the malformation of the integument structure and a declined emergence rate, whereas exogenous 20E could rescue the declined emergence rate caused by knockdown of Mthl2. Furthermore, depletion of Mthl2 through RNAi in the N. lugens nymphal stage influenced the development of the ovaries and fecundity in female adults. The soluble protein content in reproductive tissues, the protein and transcript levels of Vitellogenin (Vg) were significantly decreased after silencing of Mthl2, ultimately leading to a decline in the number of offspring with an obviously transgenerational consequence.CONCLUSIONThe current study revealed the physiological functions of Mthl2 in molting and fecundity of N. lugens, which can be used as an RNAi‐based insecticide discovery to control this pest. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
RNAi technology development for weed control: all smoke and no fire?
Authors: Panozzo Silvia , Milani Andrea , Bordignon Serena , Scarabel Laura , Varotto Serena 
Published: February 2025

AbstractRNA interference (RNAi) technology, specifically Spray‐Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS), holds potential as an innovative approach for selective weed control, promising environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional herbicides. Although the development of RNAi‐based crop protection agents against pathogens, insects and viruses is advancing rapidly, RNAi‐based weed control remains in the nascent stages, with challenges in gene target specificity and effective delivery mechanisms. It is potentially a game‐changer in agriculture, yet SIGS's applicability is limited by the lack of scientific evidence. The overall aim of this review is to focus attention on critical points that need to be addressed to advance the knowledge about and development of RNAi herbicides, and overcome the poor progress achieved so far. Enhancing RNAi delivery methods and focusing on high impact weed species could transform SIGS into a viable tool for sustainable agriculture. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
A Novel Monitoring Function Based Boundary Force Controller Design for PDE Modeling Flexible Manipulator With Uncertain Control Directions
Authors: Ma Xinyang , Wang Chenliang , Liu Jinkun 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTA contact force control and vibration suppression problem for a one‐link flexible manipulator with uncertain control directions and input constraints is discussed in this paper. The flexible manipulator is described by a PDE (Partial Differential Equation) model. Nussbaum function is a widely used method to address the challenge of uncertain control directions. However, the Nussbaum function has notable drawbacks such as uncontrollable amplitude increase, frequent controller gain direction changes, and an indeterminate final gain value. To overcome these drawbacks, we propose a novel boundary controller design that integrates a monitoring function to evaluate the current gain direction and a switching scheme to determine if and when the gain direction should change. This allows us to achieve the force control and vibration suppression with uncertain control directions. Importantly, our proposed controller offers several advantages: (1) it enables simultaneous satisfaction of input constraints, (2) ensures a maximum of one change in controller gain direction before convergence to the correct direction, and (3) allows for the specification of a definitive final value for the controller gain. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is verified by numerical simulation.
Forever but not everywhere? Unexpected non‐detection of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in major Philippines rivers
Authors: Byrne Patrick , Biles Emma , Cui Loucel , Williams Richard , Faustino‐Eslava Decibel V. , Quick Laura , Casa Manilyn , Gonzalvo Francis Ian P. , Regalado Maria Regina V. , Cabrera Kim Bryan N. , Tenio Kit Felian C. , Padrones Jenielyn , Guotana Juan Miguel , Hudson‐Edwards Karen A. , Vasilopoulos Grigorios , Coulthard Thomas J. , Tortajada Cecilia , Villanueva‐Peyraube Jessica D. , Sevilla‐Nastor Janice B. , Domingo Justine Perry T. , Megson David 
Published: February 2025

AbstractRecent studies suggest per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous in rivers worldwide. In the Asia‐Pacific region, the frequency of PFAS detection in rivers is increasing. However, the overwhelming majority of studies and data represent high population and urbanized river catchments. In this study, we investigate PFAS occurrence in major Philippines river systems characterized by both high and low population densities. In the Pasig Laguna de Bay River, which drains a major urban conurbation, we detected PFAS at concentrations typical of global rivers. Unexpectedly, we did not detect PFAS in river water or sediments in low population density river catchments, despite our instrument detection limits being lower than the vast majority of river concentrations reported worldwide. We hypothesize that septic tanks, as the dominant wastewater treatment practice in Philippines catchments, may control the release of PFAS into groundwater and rivers in the Philippines. However, no groundwater PFAS data currently exist to validate this supposition. More broadly, our findings highlight the need for more representative PFAS sampling and analysis in rivers to more accurately represent regional and global detection frequencies and trends.
Rethinking Synergies and Trade‐Offs at the Forest‐Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Nexus—A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahrens Dominic , Benedikter Simon , Giessen Lukas 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTForests play a critical role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), yet their contributions are often misunderstood and inadequately addressed in the scientific discourse. This study clarifies the intricate relationships between forests and the SDGs by examining the contextual factors that influence this interplay. Through a systematic literature review, we adopt a mixed‐methods approach that integrates quantitative mapping of themes with qualitative analysis of key forest‐SDG nexuses. Our analysis reveals that forests' contributions to specific SDGs, particularly SDGs 2 (Zero Hunger), 13 (Climate Action) and 15 (Life on Land), are not uniform but vary significantly based on forest type, condition, and management practices. These contributions are also linked to the degree of success in realizing these goals over time. Key findings indicate that previous studies have often treated forests as static entities, overlooking the complexity of their relationships with SDGs. For instance, in the case of SDG 13 (“Climate Action”), forests are frequently lauded for their synergetic contributions, while potential trade‐offs and evolving dynamics are neglected. Similarly, earlier studies have treated the SDGs as homogeneous entities, generalizing their impacts on forests. However, distinct facets within each SDG can influence the forest relationship in nuanced ways. Our findings reveal that even within specific SDG targets, such as SDG target 2.3, the connection to forests can be interpreted differently. This review contributes to a deeper understanding of the socio‐ecological systems shaping forest‐SDG outcomes, advocating for a nuanced perspective to foster informed policy‐making and sustainable forest management.
How Can SDG‐13 Be Achieved by Energy, Environment, and Economy‐Related Policies? Evidence From Five Leading Emerging Countries
Authors: Kartal Mustafa Tevfik , Mukhtarov Shahriyar , Depren Özer , Ayhan Fatih , Ulussever Talat 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTThe adverse effects of climate change on humanity have been escalating due to environmental degradation. Consequently, nations have been compelled to implement measures to address climate‐related challenges. Within this framework, traditional and recently acknowledged factors play a pivotal role in achieving SDGs, particularly SDG‐13. This study empirically examines the influence of newly recognized factors, such as the energy transition index (ETI) and environmental policy stringency (EPS), alongside traditional factors like gross domestic product (GDP), renewable energy use (REU), and foreign direct investments (FDI), on the environment, measured through ecological footprint and load capacity factor. Focusing on leading emerging economies—excluding Indonesia and Mexico due to data limitations—the study utilizes data from 2000 to 2020 and applies the kernel‐based regularized least squares (KRLS) approach under the marginal effect framework to explore this nexus. The findings indicate that (i) GDP and FDI do not exhibit environmentally friendly characteristics across the examined countries; (ii) REU contributes to environmental preservation only in Brazil; (iii) ETI and EPS do not significantly enhance environmental quality in any of the countries studied; (iv) the KRLS approach demonstrates high predictive accuracy, achieving a 99.6% success rate across various models. Overall, the research highlights the differential marginal effects of these factors on the environment, which vary by factor, percentile, and country. Based on the empirical evidence, the study discusses policy implications for the five leading emerging economies to effectively pursue SDG‐13 by leveraging the identified factors.
ON/OFF Switchable Smart Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) Based Hybrid Nanocatalyst for the Response Surface Methodology Based Catalytic Reduction of 2‐Nitroaniline
Authors: Alam Mir Waqas , Usman Sheikh Muhammad , Naeem Sumaira , Zaidi Noushi , Sadaf Shima , Naseem Khalida 
Published: February 2025

AbstractDeveloping smart nanocatalysts capable of modulating the reaction rate is one of the recent research domains currently being explored by scientific academia to address wastewater issues. This study the core@shell assembly was developed via two step methodology (chemical reduction of salt for AgNPs synthesis, followed by the emulsion polymerization step for polymeric shell formation). The TEM micrographs show that the average size of the single assembly particle was found to be less than 20 nm which was utilized as a nanocatalyst for the (CRR) of 2‐Nitroaniline (2‐NA). The RSM based optimization of the parameters associated with the CRR of the 2‐NA was performed and 100% reduction of 2‐NA with the apparent rate constant (kapp) value of 2.583 min−1 was documented under the optimized conditions of [2‐NA] = 0.025 mM, [AgNPs@PNIPAM‐AAC HNGs dose] = 4.5 mg mL−1, [NaBH4 dose] = 15 mM, temperature = 30, and pH = 6.00 units. Detailed thermodynamic analysis performed for investigating the impact of transitions associated with the polymeric shell with temperature change (5 to 70) revealed that maximum reduction was achieved at 30 where polymeric shell was present in the swelled state to reduce any diffusional barrier in the system.
Molecular Dynamics and DFT Structural, Spectroscopic, Electronic, and Biochemical Characterization of 2‐(1‐Methyl‐2‐Oxoindolin‐3‐Ylidene) Malononitrile Using Noncovalent Interaction Analysis
Authors: Arman Md , Javed Mohd , Sidrat  , Danish Md Saiful , Alima Sheikh , Haider Md , Nadeem Mohd , Javed Sadiq , Khan Maaz , Haq Nazrul , Siddiqui Nazia , Javed Saleem , Divya P. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractDFT method was used for quantum computational investigations such as structure optimization IR spectrum, Raman and UV–vis spectroscopy. The gas phase was employed for molecular geometry optimization and wavenumber calculations, whereas the TD‐DFT calculation was performed in gas, methanol, and DMSO. PED was evaluated using VEDA software. Hirshfeld surface analysis was undertaken to explore interaction between molecules on the crystal surface, confirming considerable contribution from O…H (10.6%), C…H/H…C (13.4%), C…C (16.2%), H…H (15.9%), and N…H / H…N (38.4). MEP maps, Chemical reactivity, and surface area assessment were also investigated. The ELF was utilized to show electron delocalization inside the molecule. Topological investigation assessment of Mullikan distribution of charge was also accomplished. We utilized NBO analysis to evaluate charge transfer between molecules. The impact of temperature on thermodynamic parameters such as entropy, enthalpy, and Gibbs free energy was investigated. Theoretical bioactivity of the compound was tested using the electrophilicity index. Binding interactions between the ligand and the proteins 8FH8, 8FH7, 8FH5, 4JIR, and 4JIH were explored using molecular docking techniques. The molecular characteristics were identified based on its drug‐like properties. To investigate biomolecular stability, we employed a molecular dynamics simulation (MDS).
Metal Organic Nanotube as an Efficient Ligand Support Platform: The Catalytic Properties of Supported Amino Alcohol Ligand in Henry Reaction
Authors: Di Wen , He Zhiyu , Liu Bingnan , Chi Haijun , Gu Yu , Wang Lei , Lu Gonghao 
Published: February 2025

AbstractCopper organic nanotube (CuONT) was used as a ligand support platform to simply load a chiral amino alcohol ligand (L) with two coordination centers to give the catalysts (5%–20% CuL/CuONT). Then, the catalytic properties of these catalysts for Henry reaction were studied. Under the optimized conditions, the reaction yields were 66.5%–87.4% and the ee values were 83.1%–93.7% in 11 aromatic aldehydes in tetrahydrofuran at room temperature. Compared with the catalytic results of the unsupported ligand L, the yields and ee values are slightly lower. However, this study has achieved an effective recovery and reuse of metal ions and ligands, which effectively reduce the catalytic costs and conform to the green chemistry concept. Moreover, the recovered catalyst 10 %L/CuONT was used in a large‐scale reaction up to 25 mmol and then the subsequent 5 recycling processes. It is found that the catalytic activities and ee values show no significant decrease, and even the yield is slightly higher than that of the newly prepared catalyst. These results demonstrate that it is an effective way to use MONT as a two coordinate ligand carrier for preparing recyclable catalysts.
A Phosphorus–Nitrogen–Boron Cooperative Flame Retardant and Antibacterial Reagent for Cotton Fabric
Authors: Zhang Yamei , Luo Ruilin , Tian Xifeng 
Published: February 2025

AbstractAntibacterial, flame‐retardant textiles are the preferred materials for curtains, carpets, home furnishings, and clothing in public places and have important significance. The phosphorus–nitrogen–boron cooperative effects promote good flame‐retardant properties for cotton fabrics, while a halamine structure imparts excellent antibacterial properties. A novel antibacterial, eco‐friendly flame‐retardant agent was prepared and applied as a permanent antibacterial flame‐retardant finishing of cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics treated with the flame‐retardant antibacterial agent display self‐extinguishing performance, with an average burned length of approximately 65 mm and an oxygen index of more than 31%. After sodium hypochlorite bleaching activation, the gold‐colored Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli reached a logarithmic value of more than 5, indicating outstanding bactericidal performance. The test results of XPS, CCT, and TG‐IR show that the flame‐retardant mode of action of APBN flame‐retardant cotton fiber is mainly condensed‐phase flame retardant and supplemented by the gas phase. Based on the comprehensive evaluation of antibacterial, flame retardant, and physical properties, this paper reports a composite antibacterial flame retardant and obtains cotton fabric with good antibacterial and durable flame‐retardant properties.
Self‐Assembly of H2S‐Generating Photosensitizer for Gas‐Assisted Synergistic Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Kong Hao , Tang Ying , Hao Xiaoying , Feng Wenbi , Jiang Wanyan , Mu Xueluer , Jing Xue , Lu Yingxi , Zhou Xianfeng 
Published: February 2025

AbstractPhotothermal therapy (PTT) is emerging as a promising cancer treatment, but uneven heat distribution increases side effects and reduces treatment precision, where high‐temperature zones risk inducing undesired inflammation, while low‐temperature regions are insufficient due to upregulation of heat shock proteins (HSPs). Herein, a gas‐assisted PTT strategy is designed to link near‐infrared heptamethine cyanine (Cy7) with self‐immolative phenyl thiocarbonate (PTC), a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor through a disulfide bond, creating a small‐molecule photosensitizer (Cy7‐SS‐PTC) that can self‐assemble into nanoparticles (NPs) without stabilizers. Upon internalized by cancer cells, Cy7‐SS‐PTC NPs respond to elevated glutathione levels, and simultaneously release Cy7 and H2S via a cascade reaction. The released Cy7 reassembles into nanoaggregates, generating hyperthermia under 808 nm light irradiation, and then binds to albumin, producing strong near‐infrared fluorescence to track tumors for precise treatment. The released H2S not only disrupts the mitochondrial respiratory chain, blocks ATP production, and suppresses HSP70 overexpression to amplify the efficacy of low‐temperature PTT regions but also curbs proinflammatory cytokines in high‐temperature PTT zones, delivering powerful tumor ablation with minimal inflammation. This small‐molecule‐based “H2S‐assisted PTT” strategy optimizes the current PTT and validates its potential clinical application.
CrS Doped MOF‐Derived Carbon Implanted CoNi Particles as Exceedingly Effectual Oxygen Electrocatalysts in Sustainable Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Kumar Ramasamy Santhosh , Tamilarasi S , Stephan Arul Manuel , Kim Ae Rhan , Yoo Dong Jin 
Published: February 2025

AbstractUtilizing affordable bifunctional catalysts per strong ORR/OER (oxygen reduction and evolution reactions) ability and superior zinc‐air battery performance is yet difficult due to the diverse mechanisms of ORR/OER. This work uses CoNi‐MOF (metal‐organic framework) as a self‐template to yield the CrS doped CoNi/C bifunctional catalyst. Comparable to Pt/C and IrO2 commercial catalysts, the CrS@CoNi/C catalyst exhibits improved electrocatalytic activity toward OER and ORR due to its linked pellet architecture and intact metal sulfide@carbon structure. The CrS@CoNi/C catalyst has the most intriguing ORR/OER performance, with a significantly lower potential and an exceptionally extended cycle duration (E1/2 = 0.72 V and η10 = 260 mV). The CrS@CoNi/C‐based aqueous zinc‐air battery shows long‐term charge–discharge stability (more than 100h/600 cycles) together with significant specific capacity (789.7 mAh g−1Zn) and power density (132.2 mW cm−2). Most significantly, after charge–discharge stability, the recharged CrS@CoNi/C‐based alkaline zinc‐air battery has been employed to exhibit less structural deformation for the cathode and more zincate ion production for the anode side electrodes, which is employed through TEM analysis.
Tailorable Thermal Conduction and Thermal Energy Storage Behaviors in 3D Printed Hierarchical Cellular Structure‐Based Phase Change Materials
Authors: Qiu Lin , Wang Xin , Feng Guangpeng , Feng Yanhui 
Published: February 2025

AbstractCellular structures assembled by periodic base cells (PBC) are important carriers of phase change materials (PCMs) in practical applications. The configuration of the PBC and its topology significantly influence the thermal conduction of cellular structures and the thermal storage properties of PCMs. This study develops a framework for multiscale topology optimization of cellular structures, which can first determine the optimal configuration for PBCs and then their optimal density distribution. The optimized topology structure is tree‐like, as shown by the hierarchical pores formed by PBCs with varying densities. This hierarchical cellular structure successfully reduces the maximum temperature by 22%, improves the temperature uniformity by 9%, and shortens the melting time by 8% compared to the unoptimized structure. Cellular structures with different topology structures are selective‐laser‐melting 3D‐printed to encapsulate paraffin wax, which experimentally validates that the hierarchical structure can shorten the melting time by 10.4% compared to a uniform structure, even if their porosity is the same. This progress breaks through the conventional concept that the effective thermal conductivity of the cellular structure cannot be modulated once its porosity is fixed and opens up a new idea to improve the melting behavior of PCMs.