Advances In Research Research Articles

Progress and Perspective of High‐Entropy Strategy Applied in Layered Transition Metal Oxide Cathode Materials for High‐Energy and Long Cycle Life Sodium‐Ion Batteries

AbstractLayered transition metal oxide (LTMO) cathode materials of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have shown great potential in large‐scale energy storage applications owing to their distinctive periodic layered structure and 2D ion diffusion channels. However, several challenges have hindered their widespread application, including phase transition complexities, interface instability, and susceptibility to air exposure. Fortunately, an impactful solution has emerged in the form of a high‐entropy doping strategy employed in energy storage research. Through the implementation of high‐entropy doping, LTMOs can overcome the aforementioned limitations, thereby elevating LTMO materials to a highly competitive and attractive option for next‐generation cathodes of SIBs. Thus, a comprehensive overview of the origins, definition, and characteristics of high‐entropy doping is provided. Additionally, the challenges associated with LTMOs in SIBs are explored, and discussed various modification methods to address these challenges. This review places significant emphasis on conducting a thorough analysis of the research advancements about high‐entropy LTMOs utilized in SIBs. Furthermore, a meticulous assessment of the future development trajectory is undertaken, heralding valuable research insights for the design and synthesis of advanced energy storage materials.

Transforming Cardiotoxicity Detection in Cancer Therapies: The Promise of MicroRNAs as Precision Biomarkers

Cardiotoxicity (CDTX) is a critical side effect of many cancer therapies, leading to increased morbidity and mortality if not addressed. Early detection of CDTX is essential, and while echocardiographic measures like global longitudinal strain offer promise in identifying early myocardial dysfunction, the search for reliable biomarkers continues. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as important non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally, influencing key biological processes such as the cell cycle, apoptosis, and stress responses. In cardiovascular diseases, miRNAs have demonstrated potential as biomarkers due to their stability in circulation and specific expression patterns that reflect pathological changes. Certain miRNAs have been linked to CDTX and hold promise for early detection, prognosis, and therapeutic targeting. These miRNAs not only assist in identifying early cardiac injury, but also offer opportunities for personalized interventions by modulating their expression to influence disease progression. As research advances, integrating miRNA profiling with traditional diagnostic methods could enhance the management of CDTX in cancer patients, paving the way for improved patient outcomes and more tailored therapeutic strategies. Further clinical studies are essential to validate the clinical utility of miRNAs in managing CDTX.

"Re-thinking equity: the need for a multidimensional approach in evaluating educational equity through TIMSS data"

Abstract Background In recent years, data derived from international large-scale assessments have significantly influenced the discourse surrounding educational equity. However, the use of such data has often neglected the full spectrum of dimensions that equity encompasses, while being limited to exploring the relationship between achievement variations and student background. This approach, however, constrains our understanding of the rich notion. Methods This paper aims to contribute to the advancement of current research by advocating for an alternative approach that encompasses all relevant dimensions of equity and examines their impact on both achievement and motivational outcomes. A cluster analysis manifests itself as the designated method to employ, as the concept of equity remains theoretically challenged and the detection of data patterns can serve as a strong step in its multifaceted inquiry. Moreover, this method enables us to incorporate the multidimensional concept in a country-level context. Results Employing data from the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study at grade four, this paper presents five distinct clusters of educational systems that illustrate diverse equity configurations. Notably, none of the identified clusters consistently scores high or low on all equity dimensions. This suggests that all of the clusters perform inconsistently to different degrees across the dimensions of equity. Furthermore, no single cluster emerges as superior to the others across both outcome measures. Conclusions These findings shed light on the intricate interplay between equity, achievement, and motivation within the examined educational systems. The unique configuration of the equity dimensions within each cluster underscores the importance of adopting a nuanced evaluation of equity, which can enhance our understanding of equity patterns.

From the Laboratory to the Real-World: The Role of Mismatch Negativity in Psychosis.

Mismatch negativity (MMN) has gained attention as a biomarker for psychosis and a translational intermediate phenotype in animal models of psychosis, including rodents and non-human primates. MMN has been linked to global functioning (Global Assessment of Functioning [GAF] score) and prognosis (psychosis onset or remission), suggesting that MMN reflects activities beyond auditory processing alone. This review examines the 45-year history of MMN from the perspective of psychiatric researchers and discusses current advances in computational and translational research on MMN, summarizing the current understanding of the MMN generation mechanism. We then address the essential question, "What do we observe through MMN?" Currently, we regard the relationship between global functioning in the real world and MMN as the key to answering this question. As a preliminary investigation, we analyzed the relationship between GAF as an objective variable and MMN, diagnosis, and basic epidemiological factors (age, sex, premorbid intelligence quotient) as explanatory variables (total n = 201, healthy controls: n = 41, patients with psychiatric disorders: n = 160) without assuming diagnostic categories. The relationship between functional outcomes and MMN was confirmed without a case-control design. Finally, we propose that new neurophysiological studies should acknowledge psychophysiological responses such as emotion, intention, and autonomic responses, as well as behavioral differences among participants beyond the dichotomy between healthy controls and patients. Measurements could be conducted in various settings from the participant's perspective. We discuss the potential for research investigating psychosis based on the interaction between individuals and the environment, using MMN as an illustrative model.

Towards Understanding the Role of the Glycosylation of Proteins Present in Extracellular Vesicles in Urinary Tract Diseases: Contributions to Cancer and Beyond

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a population of nanoscale particles surrounded by a phospholipid bilayer, enabling intercellular transfer of bioactive molecules. Once released from the parental cell, EVs can be found in most biological fluids in the human body and can be isolated from them. For this reason, EVs have significant diagnostic potential and can serve as an excellent source of circulating disease biomarkers. Protein glycosylation plays a key role in many biological processes, and aberrant glycosylation is a hallmark of various diseases. EVs have been shown to carry multiple glycoproteins, but little is known about the specific biological roles of these glycoproteins in the context of EVs. Moreover, specific changes in EV glycosylation have been described for several diseases, including cancers and metabolic, cardiovascular, neurological or kidney diseases. Urine is the richest source of EVs, providing almost unlimited (in terms of volume) opportunities for non-invasive EV isolation. Recent studies have also revealed a pathological link between urinary EV glycosylation and urological cancers, as well as other pathologies of the urinary tract. In this review, we discuss recent research advances in this field and the diagnostic/prognostic potential of urinary EV glycosylation. In addition, we summarize common methods for isolating EVs from urine and techniques used to study their glycosylation.

A study protocol for a mixed-method environmental scan of contextual factors that influence lung cancer screening adherence.

The efficacy of lung cancer screening (LCS) to reduce lung cancer specific mortality is heavily dependent on adherence to recommended screening guidelines, with real-world adherence rates reported to be drastically lower than rates described in clinical trials. There is a dearth in the literature on reminder processes and clinical workflows used to address adherence and robust data is needed to fully understand which clinical set-ups, processes, and context enhance and increase continued LCS participation. This paper describes a protocol for an environmental scan of adherence and reminder processes that are currently used in LCS programs across the United States. This study will triangulate data using a 3-step explanatory sequential mixed methods design to describe mechanisms of current adherence and reminder systems within academic and community LCS programs to pinpoint clinic or system barrier and facilitator combinations that contribute to increased adherence. In step 1, surveys from a nationally representative sample of LCS programs will yield quantitative data about program structure, volume, and tracking/reminder processes and messages. After completion of the survey, interested LCS program personnel will be invited to participate in an in-depth interview (step 2) to explore current processes and interventions used for adherence at the participant and program level. Finally, in step 3, triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data will be completed through qualitative comparative analysis to identify combinations of components that affect higher or lower adherence. This research advances the state of the science by filling a gap in knowledge about LCS program characteristics and processes associated with better adherence which can inform the development and implementation of interventions that are scalable and sustainable across a wide variety of clinical practice settings.

A Review on the Recent Process of Lazy Wave Risers

Lazy wave risers (LWRs) are designed with equidistant buoyancy blocks attached in the lower half of the riser, allowing the riser to take on an arch shape under the buoyancy forces provided by buoyancy blocks. This arch configuration can provide flexibility to the LWR arrangement and effectively isolate the dynamic responses between the offshore floating structure and the riser’s touchdown zone (TDZ). Its design and application aim to address the issues of dynamic response and fatigue damage that traditional steel catenary risers (SCRs) face in deep water and complex marine environments. Given that research on the LWRs in the field of ocean engineering is not sufficiently abundant, the structural characteristics, hydrodynamic loads, global responses, fatigue damage assessment, and structural optimization progress of LWRs are systematically reviewed in this paper to provide references for researchers in related fields. Among these topics, the global response of LWRs is the main point of this review. This section details the theoretical analysis and numerical modeling methods employed in the study of LWRs’ global response, explores the research advancements in the vortex-induced vibration (VIV) related to LWRs, and discusses corresponding experimental studies. Finally, the installation, transfer, and repair processes of LWRs are investigated. Additionally, the importance of leveraging advanced technologies from other fields and combining them with current advanced algorithms is emphasized in efforts to assess fatigue damage and optimize the structures of LWRs, ultimately achieving complementary advantages.

Research advances in fatigue performance of spot joining technology for lightweight materials

Research advances in fatigue performance of spot joining technology for lightweight materials

Progress in the Study of Diabetic Nephropathy Markers

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the principal consideration of end-stage diabetic nephropathy in China, second only to chronic glomerulonephritis. It is the most common complication of diabetes and the cause of death in diabetic patients. The clinical manifestations of DN are proteinuria, edema, hypertension, and progressive renal damage, and its continuous development can turn into nephrotic syndrome and uremia. It has been reported that urinary microalbumin, cystatin C and homocysteine are related to the diagnosis of renal diseases. In addition, pathological examination of renal biopsy, as the golden standard, plays a vital role in clinical diagnosis of DN. In the meantime, with the rise of biomarkers research, such as Genetic Markers, miRNAs and AGEs, we can evaluate the renal function of diabetic patients by detecting these markers as early as possible. Taking into account the above information, we focus on research advances in the association of microalbuminuria, urinary inhibitory C, serum homocysteine, renal biopsy and biomarkers with DN.

Nanoemulsion and nanoemulgel-based carriers as advanced delivery tools for the treatment of oral diseases.

Oral diseases rank among the most widespread ailments worldwide posing significant global health and economic challenges affecting around 3.5billion people, impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. Dental caries, periodontal disease, bacterial and fungal infections, tooth loss and oral malignancies are among the most prevalent global clinical disorders contributing to oral health burden. Traditional treatments for oral diseases often face challenges such as poor drug bioavailability, breakdown of medication in saliva, inconsistent antibiotic levels at the site of periodontal infection as well as higher side effects. However, the emergence of nanoemulgel (NEG) as an innovative drug delivery system offers promising solutions where NEG combines the advantages of both nanoemulsions (NEs) and hydrogels providing improved drug solubility, stability, and targeted delivery. Due to their minuscule size and ability to control drug release, NEGs hold promise for improving treatment of oral diseases, where versatility of these delivery systems makes them suitable for various applications, including topical delivery in dentistry. This review concisely outlines the anatomy of the oral environment and investigates the therapeutic potential of NE-based gels in oral disorder treatment. It thoroughly examines the challenges of drug delivery in the oral cavity and proposes strategies to improve therapeutic efficacy, drawing attention to previous research reports for comparison. Through comprehensive analysis, the review highlights the promising role of NEGs as a novel therapeutic approach for oral health management via research advancements and their clinical translation. Additionally, it provides valuable insights into future research directions and development opportunities in this area.

Assessing the Effect of Toothpastes on Enamel Surface Roughness Using a Custom-Designed and Fabricated Toothbrush Simulator Device for Evaluation.

The primary objective of this study is to emphasize the importance of maintaining optimal oral health through regular toothbrushing practices. To achieve this objective, a custom-designed electromechanical toothbrush simulator device was developed. This innovative tool enables researchers to investigate the impact of abrasive-based whitening toothpastes on enamel surface roughness compared to brushing without toothpaste. The device design is composed of multiple systems, including mechanical, motorization, and toothpaste irrigation components. The device incorporates various components, including mechanical, motorization, and toothpaste irrigation systems. Specifically, the mechanical aspect comprises fabricated metal parts, 3D printed elements, and a load cell for measuring brushing force. The motorization section integrates a microcontroller and a stepper motor, allowing for the adjustment of brushing cycles and speed. Furthermore, the toothpaste irrigation system employs a pump with adjustable speed, along with a toothpaste canister and a waste receptacle. By providing a controlled environment for evaluating the effects of different toothpaste formulations on enamel integrity, this simulator device contributes significantly to advancements in oral care research and product development.

Recent advances in laboratory education research

Abstract This review synthesizes recent advancements in laboratory education research in university chemistry over the past decade, from 2014 to 2024. It focuses on three key areas: evidence-oriented teaching practices, student learning outcomes and processes, and progressive curriculum development. The paper highlights the growing emphasis on evidence-based approaches to laboratory instruction, the multifaceted nature of student learning in the laboratory, and the importance of designing laboratory curricula that ensure progression and congruence across study programs. The review instantiates how evidence-oriented teaching practices have led to a shift in focus from theory to practical techniques. It explores the diverse learning outcomes associated with laboratory work, including experimental competencies, conceptual understanding, and affective aspects such as identity development and self-efficacy. The paper also introduces a comprehensive framework for assessing student learning in laboratories, integrating cognitive, conative, affective, psychomotor, social, and epistemic domains. Furthermore, the review examines approaches to curriculum development that emphasize scaffolding, progression, and alignment between various curricular elements. It presents models for developing experimental design competence and ensuring congruence in laboratory curriculum development. The paper concludes by acknowledging the persistent gap between research and practice in laboratory education and calling for continued efforts to bridge this divide.

Association between the serum albumin–creatinine ratio and 28-day intensive care unit mortality among patients with sepsis: a multicenter retrospective cohort study

IntroductionSepsis is a substantial global health challenge with a considerable disease burden. Despite advancements in sepsis research, the mortality rates associated with this condition remain high. The relationship between the serum albumin-to-creatinine ratio (sACR) and mortality in patients with sepsis remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between the sACR and 28-day mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with sepsis.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort study, we used data sourced from the eICU Collaborative Research Database. The primary exposure variable was sACR, and the primary outcome measure was mortality within 28 days after ICU admission. Statistical analyses included univariate and multivariate logistic regression models, generalized additive models, and two-piecewise linear regression models, which were employed to explore non-linear relationships and threshold effects between sACR and mortality.ResultsThe study cohort comprised 9,690 ICU patients with sepsis, with a 28-day mortality rate of 9.99%. The results of the multivariate logistic regression model indicated that elevated sACR levels were significantly associated with a reduced risk of mortality (odds ratio = 0.78, 95% confidence interval: 0.71–0.87, p < 0.001), even after adjusting for potential confounding variables. Curve fitting revealed a non-linear relationship between sACR and 28-day mortality, with an inflection point of 4.79.DiscussionThis study demonstrated that sACR is an independent risk factor for 28-day mortality in ICU patients with sepsis, exhibiting a non-linear negative dose–response relationship and a threshold effect. These findings may serve as early warning indicators in high-risk populations.

Advancements in Nanohydroxyapatite: Synthesis, Biomedical Applications, and Composite Developments

Abstract Nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) is distinguished by its exceptional biocompatibility, bioactivity, and biodegradability, qualities attributed to its similarity to the mineral component of human bone. This review discusses the synthesis techniques of nHA, highlighting how these methods shape its physicochemical attributes and, in turn, its utility in biomedical applications. The versatility of nHA is further enhanced by doping with biologically significant ions like magnesium or zinc, which can improve its bioactivity and confer therapeutic properties. Notably, nHA-based composites, incorporating metal, polymeric, and bioceramic scaffolds, exhibit enhanced osteoconductivity and osteoinductivity. In orthopedic field, nHA and its composites serve effectively as bone graft substitutes, showing exceptional osteointegration and vascularization capabilities. In dentistry, these materials contribute to enamel remineralization, mitigate tooth sensitivity, and are employed in surface modification of dental implants. For cancer therapy, nHA composites offer a promising strategy to inhibit tumor growth while sparing healthy tissues. Furthermore, nHA-based composites are emerging as sophisticated platforms with high surface ratio for the delivery of drugs and bioactive substances, gradually releasing therapeutic agents for progressive treatment benefits. Overall, this review delineates the synthesis, modifications, and applications of nHA in various biomedical fields, shed light on the future advancements in biomaterials research.

Thermoelectric properties of XX- and XY-stacked GeS/GeSe van der Waals heterostructures from DFT and BTP calculations.

This study utilizes density functional theory (DFT) and the Boltzmann transport equation (BTE) to investigate the structural, electronic, and thermoelectric properties of germanium sulfide (GeS) and germanium selenide (GeSe) monolayers, along with their van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures. We analyzed XX-stacked and XY-stacked configurations, where the XX configuration features direct atomic stacking, while the XY configuration exhibits staggered stacking. Our first-principles calculations indicate that the formation of GeS/GeSe heterostructures results in a reduction of bandgaps compared to their bulk and monolayer counterparts, yielding bandgap values of 0.91 eV for the XX configuration and 0.84 eV for the XY configuration. Stability assessments reveal that the XY configuration is more stable, demonstrating a lattice thermal conductivity of 15.21 W/mK compared to 17.95 W/mK for the XX configuration T 300 K. The thermoelectric properties were systematically evaluated across a temperature range of 300-800 K, revealing high Seebeck coefficients of 1.51 mV/K for the XX heterostructure and 1.39 mV/K for the XY heterostructure. reflecting their excellent charge transport capabilities. Notably, the figure of merit (ZT) at 800 K was calculated to be 0.90 for the XX configuration and 1.01 for the XY configuration, underscoring the superior thermoelectric performance of the XY heterostructure. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of 2D GeS/GeSe heterostructures for thermoelectric applications and provide a solid foundation for future research and technological advancements in this domain.

The Diverse Aspects of Uterine Serous Cancer: An NCI workshop on the status of and opportunities for advancement of research.

The marked increase in incidence and mortality in endometrial cancer over the last two decades is driven in part by rising rates of higher grade, more aggressive endometrial cancers with mutations in TP53, uterine serous cancers and their dedifferentiated component, uterine carcinosarcomas (collectively USC). USC rates have been increasing among all racial and ethnic groups, with higher rates of this aggressive uterine cancer in Black women. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) hosted a workshop in June 2023 to examine the diverse aspects of USC across epidemiology, biology, and molecular genetics, and to advance knowledge from basic to preclinical and translational efforts. Key stakeholders came together including basic scientists, clinical investigators, and patient advocates to identify critical research gaps that, when addressed, would facilitate more comprehensive and rapid progress in understanding and ultimately treating USC across all patients. NCI released a supplemental funding opportunity (NOT-CA-24-044) in Spring 2024 to facilitate rapid translation of these recommendations.

Quality of clinical practice guidelines for frozen shoulder: a systematic review.

Perform a systematic critical appraisal of current clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for frozen shoulder. Systematic review of CPGs (PROSPERO number CRD42022368775). Inclusion criteria- CPGs written in English providing guidance on the evaluation and or treatment for frozen shoulder, traumatic injury and neurologic CPGs were excluded.Relevant studies were assessed for inclusion and selected studies were identified from PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus and CINAHL databases. The search strategy was developed by a biomedical librarian, performed on October 9, 2024. Data were extracted from the selected CPGs and underwent quality assessment using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II. The search resulted in 38,428 studies and 2 CPGs were retained for appraisal. The mean overall AGREE II score was 75% (SD = 5.7). Lowest mean scores were found in the applicability (27% SD = 24.0) and editorial independence (48% SD = 14.1) domains. The highest domain scores were found in scope and purpose (92% SD = 7.8) and clarity and presentation (79% SD = 9.9). One CPG was rated as low quality based on a priori criteria and ultimately one higher quality CPG was recommended. Given the advances in research that have developed over the last decade pertaining to the evaluation and treatment of frozen shoulder there is a critical need for an up to date, evidence informed, high quality CPG in order to identify gaps in our knowledge that the global research community should address.

The Differential Effects of Augmented Reality and Product Presentation Strategies on Brand Recall: An Embodied Cognition Perspective

As augmented reality (AR) technology becomes more prevalent in marketing, its impact on consumer memory processes, particularly brand recall, remains underexplored. This study primarily employs an empirical research method, using two lab experiments to examine the interaction between product presentation formats (AR vs. non-AR) and presentation strategies (separate vs. collocation) in brand recall. Across two experiments, we showed that AR enhances brand recall only in collocation presentations, where multiple products are displayed together, but not in separate presentations of individual products. In single-product contexts, AR formats do not demonstrate a significant advantage over non-AR formats. These findings suggest that AR’s effectiveness is contingent on presentation strategy, highlighting the contextual boundaries of AR’s utility in influencing consumer memory. By integrating embodied cognition theory with associative network theory, this research advances our understanding of how immersive technologies shape brand recall, offering strategic insights for marketers seeking to leverage AR in diverse product presentation scenarios.

Research Advances in Adenomyosis-Related Signaling Pathways and Promising Targets

Adenomyosis is a benign gynecological condition characterized by the proliferation of the endometrial stroma and glands into the myometrium, uterine volume enlargement, and peripheral smooth muscle hypertrophy. The typical clinical symptoms include chronic pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, and subfertility, all of which significantly impact quality of life. There are no effective prevention or treatment strategies for adenomyosis, partly due to a limited understanding of the pathological mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of the disease. Given that signaling pathways play a crucial role in the development of adenomyosis, a better understanding of these signaling pathways is essential for identifying therapeutic targets and advancing drug development. The occurrence and progression of adenomyosis are closely linked to various underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, including proliferation, migration, invasion, fibrosis, angiogenesis, inflammation, oxidative stress, immune response, and epigenetic changes. This review summarizes the signaling pathways and targets associated with the pathogenesis of adenomyosis, including CXCL/CXCR, NLRP3, NF-κB, TGF-β/smad, VEGF, Hippo/YAP, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, JAK/STAT, and other relevant pathways. In addition, it identifies promising future targets for the development of adenomyosis treatment, such as m6A, GSK3β, sphks, etc.

Parkinson's Disease: Unravelling the Medicinal Perspectives and Recent Developments of Heterocyclic Monoamine Oxidase-B Inhibitors.

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by slow movement (bradykinesia), tremors, and muscle stiffness. These symptoms occur due to the degeneration of dopamine- producing neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain, leading to reduced dopamine levels. The development of Parkinson's Disease (PD) involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors. PD is associated with abnormal regulation of the monoamine oxidase (MAO) enzyme. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are an important class of drugs used to treat PD and other neurological disorders. In the early stages of PD, monotherapy with MAO-B inhibitors has been shown to be both safe and effective. These inhibitors are also commonly used as adjuncts in long-term disease management, as they can improve both motor and non-motor symptoms, reduce "OFF" periods, and potentially slow disease progression. However, current MAO-B inhibitors come with side effects like dizziness, nausea, vomiting, light-headedness, and fainting. Therefore, accelerating the development of new MAO-B inhibitors with fewer side effects is crucial. This review explores natural compounds that may inhibit monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B), focusing on key findings from the past seven years. It highlights the most effective heterocyclic compounds against MAO-B, including thiazolyl hydrazone, pyridoxine-resveratrol, pyridazine, isoxazole, oxadiazole, benzothiazole, benzoxazole, coumarin, caffeine, pyrazoline, piperazine, piperidine, pyrrolidine, and morpholine derivatives. The review covers in vitro, in silico, and in vivo data, along with the structure- activity relationship of these compounds. These findings offer valuable insights for the development of more effective MAO-B inhibitors and advancements in Parkinson's disease research.