Browse Articles

Going in reverse to get it right in RNA replication

Interpretable hybrid CNN–ViT framework with neuro-symbolic clinical decision support for early cervical cancer diagnosis

Abstract Accurate classification of cervical cytology images remains challenging because of subtle morphological differences, staining variability, and visual similarity among cell categories. Although deep learning methods have achieved strong classification performance, many existing approaches provide limited transparency regarding the image regions and morphological features that influence their predictions. This study presents an interpretable hybrid classification framework that combines GoogLeNet and MobileNet with a Vision Transformer (ViT) to extract multi-scale local morphology, fine-grained texture, and global contextual information from cervical cytology images. The framework incorporates a biomarker-guided Grad-CAM module, a neuro-symbolic inference component, and an ontology-aware semantic consistency module. The proposed Cervical Cytology Biomarker Ontology (CCBO) was constructed by adapting established principles of biomedical semantic representation and published cervical cytomorphological descriptions. The ontology represents hierarchical cell categories, biomarker associations, semantic compatibility constraints, and exclusion relationships to support structured verification of model outputs. Fuzzy IF–THEN rules were used to assess neural predictions according to predefined combinations of morphology-related biomarkers. In addition, an IoU-based Grad-CAM localization framework was introduced to quantify the spatial agreement between activation regions and morphology-guided biomarker reference masks. This multi-stage design extends the framework beyond conventional black-box classification by linking visual attribution, fuzzy rule evaluation, and ontology-based consistency assessment. Experimental results showed that the proposed hybrid model achieved an average AUC of 99.23%, sensitivity of 98.86%, and accuracy of 98.80% on the SIPaKMeD dataset. Illustrative case analyses further demonstrated the framework’s ability to produce structured explanations. For dyskeratotic samples, the Grad-CAM maps emphasized keratinization-related cytoplasmic regions and hyperchromatic nuclear areas, while the neuro-symbolic component identified agreement with the predefined dyskeratotic biomarker rules.

Cascade Solvation Refinement for High‐Voltage Lithium Metal Batteries

ABSTRACT Unstable interfacial chemistry in Li metal batteries originates from the limited accessibility of anions at electrified interfaces, even in the electrolytes designed with anion‐coordinated solvation structures. Here we report a cascade solvation refinement (CSR) strategy that enables molecular‐level control over the size and dynamics of anion‐coordinated Li + clusters. This design principle is governed by the synergy between anion‐anion repulsion and average polarizability, which together dictate cluster miniaturization and anion‐exchange dynamics. By sequentially incorporating, bis(oxalate)borate (BOB − ) and bis(trifluoromethanesulphonyl)imide (TFSI − ) into a bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (FSI − ) saturated electrolyte, the solvation environment evolves toward compact, highly dynamic Li + ‐anion clusters with accelerated anion‐exchange kinetics. The BOB − and TFSI − co‐refined electrolyte sustains continuous anion availability at electrode interfaces, facilitates the formation of robust inorganic‐rich interphases, and suppresses solvent‐dominated side reactions. Notably, the refined solvation structure also compresses the electric double layer, enabling anion‐coordinated solvation structures to approach the electrode surface more closely and construct inorganic interphases. Consequently, 4.4 V Li‐metal pouch cells with practical Ah‐level capacities (>4 Ah), as well as the large‐format 20 Ah cells, exhibit markedly extended cycling stability and high gravimetric energy density (>540 Wh kg −1 ). These results highlight the CSR approach as a powerful platform for advancing practical, high‐energy batteries.

Correction for Zhang et al., Programmable DNA hydrogels for dual-mode PD-L1 suppression via polyvalent LYTAC mimics and transcriptional silencing

Effects of home exercise program on endurance, disability and daily participation in non-specific neck pain

Record Selectivity of SO ₂ by Molecularly Gated Sieving Membranes Having Cross‐Scale Mechanically Interlocked Nanofibers

ABSTRACT Achieving selective molecular sieving, efficient particulate filtration, and passive signal acquisition into an integrated flexible membrane signifies a pivotal advancement toward interactive sensing‐protective application. Herein, we unravel cross‐scale mechanically interlocked poly(lactic acid) (CSMI‐PLA) nanofibrous membranes fabricated via primary hydrogen bonding through polydopamine adhesion and secondary coordinate bonding via heterogeneous metal‐organic frameworks entanglement. This hierarchically interlocked interface design establishes robust connectivity across dimensional scales, endowing CSMI‐PLA with exceptional mechanical resilience and long‐term sensing‐protective durability. Remarkably, the CSMI‐PLA membranes simultaneously achieve >99.45% removal of PM 0.3 with an ultralow pressure drop of 120 Pa, a record sulfur dioxide/nitrogen (SO 2 /N 2 ) selectivity of 37000, and a substantial SO 2 uptake of 10.6 mmol·g − 1 . Moreover, the CSMI‐PLA membranes retain high functional integrity under multicomponent conditions while offering intrisical electroactivity that enables passive intelligent sensing. This work establishes a generalizable platform for engendering sensing‐protective nanofibers, with promising implications for molecularly gated sieving and biodegradable self‐adaptive wearables.

Multi-objective optimization for predicting and enhancing machining performance in nanofluid- assisted turning using meta heuristic algorithms

Abstract This study evaluates the performance of a multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-based nanofluid as an alternative cutting fluid in the turning of EN31 steel. Experiments were conducted under dry, conventional coolant, and nanofluid-assisted conditions using a gravity-feed lubrication system with a flow rate of 1 L/h. The results indicate that the nanofluid improves machining performance, with reductions of 5–20% in cutting force, 11–37% in thrust force, 4–33% in feed force, and 2–34% in surface roughness compared to conventional cooling. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with Central Composite Design was applied to develop predictive models for surface roughness and resultant cutting force. The models showed good statistical significance and prediction accuracy. Multi-objective optimization was performed to minimize surface roughness and cutting force while maximizing material removal rate. The optimal parameters were identified as 1500 rpm cutting speed, 0.10 mm/rev feed rate, and 1 mm depth of cut, resulting in surface roughness of approximately 0.47 μm, cutting force of 165 N, and material removal rate of 7.54 mm³/min. Comparative analysis of optimization algorithms showed that NSGA-II provided superior convergence and stability, achieving better performance than other methods. The findings confirm the effectiveness of nanofluid-assisted machining combined with intelligent optimization for improved machining outcomes.

Photocatalytic CO ₂ Reduction to Acetone by Chiral HgS/CuO Heterojunctions

ABSTRACT The efficient conversion of CO 2 into value‐added C 3 chemicals is highly desirable yet remains challenging due to the complex multi‐electron transfer and C‐C coupling processes involved. In particular, acetone is an industrially important solvent and chemical feedstock, and its direct synthesis from CO 2 via photocatalysis represents a sustainable alternative to fossil‐based routes. Herein, we report chiral CuO/HgS heterojunction photocatalysts for additive‐free photocatalytic CO 2 reduction to acetone. Chiral CuO and HgS were synthesized using chiral molecules as symmetry‐directing agents and subsequently assembled into heterojunctions with controlled handedness combinations. Structural and spectroscopic analyses confirm the successful construction of chiral interfaces. Photocatalytic tests reveal that the heterojunction catalysts exhibit significantly enhanced CO 2 conversion efficiency and acetone selectivity compared to single components. The optimized system delivers improved charge separation efficiency, increased photocurrent response, and prolonged carrier lifetimes. This work demonstrates an effective heterojunction design strategy for promoting C 3 product formation from CO 2 and provides a sustainable approach for green acetone synthesis.

Christopher A. Sims (1942–2026): Paradigm-shifting macroeconomist and econometrician

Christopher A. Sims, who died on March 14, 2026, left behind an indelible mark on macroeconomics and econometrics. His Nobel Prize winning research reshaped the paradigm for empirical macroeconomics, creating a rigorous and flexible framework for inferring the effects of macroeconomic policies. He also made important contributions to time series forecasting, Bayesian econometrics, factor modeling, approximation theory, and models of monetary and fiscal policy. Few academics have had as direct an impact on the work of central banks throughout the world. A frank and generous mentor with numerous students, Chris’s impact extends well beyond his published papers.

Aluminum phosphate-modified red clay as a stable nanocomposite catalyst for the selective conversion of methanol to dimethyl ether

Abstract Aluminum phosphate-modified Egyptian red clay (AlPO 4 /ERC) nanocomposites were developed as low-cost solid acid catalysts for methanol dehydration to dimethyl ether (DME). Structural and physicochemical analyses (XRD, FTIR, N₂ adsorption–desorption, TEM, SEM, and acid-probe reactions) show that AlPO 4 incorporation preserves the aluminosilicate framework while tuning surface acidity, porosity, and active-site accessibility. XRF and XRD confirm that ERC consists mainly of quartz, kaolinite, and iron oxides, whereas AlPO 4 introduces additional phosphate phases that interact with the clay matrix. Catalytic testing reveals a strong dependence on AlPO 4 loadings, with 5 wt.% AlPO 4 /ERC exhibiting optimal performance and achieving 90% methanol conversion with 100% DME selectivity at 200 °C. This enhancement correlates with an optimal balance of weak and intermediate acid sites (~ 2.5 mmol g −1 ) and a high specific surface area (52 m 2  g −1 ), which maximizes the number of accessible active centers. Higher loadings reduce activity because of pore blockage and decreased site accessibility. Mechanistically, methanol dehydration proceeds via acid-catalyzed surface methoxy intermediates, with activity governed by acid-site distribution rather than iron species. The catalyst shows excellent stability over 15 days without deactivation, confirming its strong structural robustness. Overall, controlled AlPO 4 incorporation optimizes the acidity-porosity synergy, enabling efficient and stable DME production.

Tissue‐Integrated Hydrogel Battery‐Enabled Electroceutical for Cardiac Arrhythmia Management

ABSTRACT Conventional implantable bioelectronic devices for cardiac arrhythmia management are bulky, invasive, prone to mechanical failure and immune rejection. Here, we introduce a standalone bioadhesive hydrogel battery‐enabled electroceutical device that seamlessly interfaces with cardiac tissue, enabling rapid electrochemical modulation of cardiac rhythm. Constructed from dynamic supermolecular hydrogels, the device achieves strong electrode–electrolyte adhesion and suture‐free integration with biological tissue (adhesion energy > 200 J m −2 ). It provides stable in vivo voltage outputs (0.90–1.17 V) for 14 days while suppressing immune response as indicated by downregulating inflammatory biomarkers. The battery discharge enhances cardiomyocyte contraction, promotes cell junction protein expression, and mediates cardiac arrhythmias in ex vivo rat hearts. Adhering directly to the myocardium without surgical fixation, the device generates sustained electrical stimulation for bradycardia correction and low‐energy defibrillation, restoring sinus rhythm within seconds (5–10 s) in a rat model. This tissue‐integrated electroceutical offers a promising alternative during cardiac surgery to treat arrhythmia by enhancing tissue integration and minimizing foreign‐body response.

Comparative assessment of hybrid AI models using metaheuristic algorithms for predicting shaft resistance of driven piles

Halogen‐Bonding‐Assisted Synthesis of CsPbI ₃ Perovskite Nanocrystal Emission Materials for Stable and Efficient Pure‐Red LEDs

ABSTRACT Perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) demonstrate exceptional potential as emitters to address Rec. 2020 standards for wide color gamut displays. However, the pure‐red‐targeted CsPbI 3 NCs generally suffer from imprecise synthetic control over emission wavelength and from structural instabilities that significantly diminish performance. We report a novel halogen engineering framework that addresses the otherwise unfavorable wavelength‐efficiency‐stability nexus. Our approach leverages surface I − ···I 2 interactions to simultaneously unlock exceptional optical characteristics and the elusive structural robustness needed for application. It achieves: (i) controlled quantum‐confinement‐tuned emission wavelength, (ii) near‐unity photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield through iodide vacancy defect management, and (iii) excellent environmental stability, even under harsh (85°C/85%) temperature and humidity conditions, through lattice‐distortion suppression. Rec. 2020 compliant, 638 nm peak light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are then demonstrated with Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage coordinates (X, Y) = (0.703, 0.297), 22% external quantum efficiency, luminance ≥ 11,000 cd m −2 , and long lifetime, establishing a materials‐by‐design paradigm for advancing next‐generation perovskite display technologies.

Evaluation of the urinary bladder wall in healthy male dogs using B-mode ultrasonography and 2D shear wave elastography

Rapid glycolytic metabolism underpins mucosal-associated invariant T cell functional responses to innate cytokines

Abstract Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells express a semi-invariant T cell receptor (TCR) that recognizes bacterial-derived antigens presented on MR1. Upon TCR triggering, MAIT cells respond rapidly, producing a range of effector molecules which facilitate host-protective responses in the context of microbial infections. In contrast, MAIT cell responses to viral infection are instead triggered by the recognition of cytokines, and occur independently of TCR engagement. The molecular and metabolic regulation of MAIT cell TCR responses is rapidly emerging, but there is a paucity of data on cytokine driven responses. Here, using high-resolution, quantitative proteomic analysis, we map the downstream proteome of innate cytokine (IL-18/IFNα)–activated MAIT cells, highlighting robust cytokine-driven remodeling and a signature that is distinct from the TCR-driven response. MAIT cells significantly increase protein biosynthesis in response to innate cytokine stimulation and rapidly upregulate the production of IFNγ, granzyme B, and IFN-stimulated gene 15. We demonstrate the metabolic kinetics of MAIT cell responses to cytokine stimulation and highlight a rapid but transient glycolytic burst that is uncoupled from mitochondrial remodeling and contrasts the robust metabolic profile elicited downstream of TCR engagement. Finally, we demonstrate differential contributions from both glycogen and glucose in supporting MAIT cell responses to innate cytokines and further highlight the importance of nutrient availability as a governing signal for MAIT cell fitness and effector functioning.

Lightweight All‐Solid‐State Pouch Cells Freed from High Stack Pressure

ABSTRACT Since 2011, ionic conductivity of some sulfide‐ and halide‐based solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) have already reached a level comparable to that of liquid electrolytes. Numerous companies worldwide have proposed diverse technical pathways for commercializing electric vehicles with ultra‐long driving ranges. However, the practical vehicular application of all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) remains highly challenging and uncertain. One of the major obstacles is the requirement for high stack pressure, which typically relies on heavy metallic plates and thereby reduces the overall energy density of the module battery. This perspective compares practical all‐solid‐state pouch cells (ASSPCs) with conventional liquid batteries to analyze the origins of stack pressure requirements. The analysis is conducted from material, interfacial, and structural viewpoints, revealing the critical factors underlying this limitation. Subsequently, strategies are proposed to mitigate stack pressure from the current 20 MPa to 5 MPa for the first stage and to 2 MPa as the final target. The effect of stack pressure on cell‐to‐module energy density efficiency is also calculated to quantitative analysis. These insights provide practical suggestion from ASSPCs design to module‐level pressure management.

Quality, reliability, and counseling content gaps in penile prosthesis implantation videos on Chinese short video platforms

Peptide exchange–competent class I MHC molecules produced in eukaryotic cells for rapid production of MHC multimers

Abstract Class I MHC peptide (MHC-Ip) multimers are well-established reagents that detect antigen-specific T cells. The classical method for production of MHC-Ip multimers begins with the expression of MHC heavy chains (HCs) and β2-microglobulin (β2m) subunits as inclusion bodies in Escherichia coli and is followed by denaturant solubilization, in vitro folding in the presence of a defined peptide ligand, and purification by size exclusion chromatography. This protocol is labor intensive, difficult to scale, and represents a significant bottleneck in application of the technology. Herein, we present a novel method for the expression in eukaryotic cells of secreted peptide exchange–competent class I MHC proteins in their native conformation. In this method, expression constructs are engineered as bimolecular complexes composed of an MHC HC and a β2m molecule covalently linked at its amino terminus to an MHC-binding peptide through a flexible peptide linker containing a defined protease site. Upon proteolysis, the original peptide occupant of the MHC binding site dissociates and is easily replaced with a synthetic peptide. When leucine zippers are added to the carboxyl terminus of each subunit, protease cleavage of the linker results in a stable HC/β2m complex that can be isolated and stored for subsequent peptide loading. Using this method, we have produced homogeneous MHC-Ip complexes for 25 class I MHC alleles and demonstrated that tetramers produced in this way are equivalent to conventionally produced tetramers for T-cell staining.

Vitamin B ₁₂ Precatalyst Enables Molecular Cobalamin(II) Catalysis for Organodisulfide Anolytes in Aqueous Redox Flow Batteries

ABSTRACT Affordable and stable organodisulfide anolytes are attractive for long‐duration aqueous redox flow batteries (ARFBs) for grid energy storage. However, the sluggish redox reactions involving the cleavage/formation of sulfur–sulfur (S─S) bonds cause severe polarization and limited capacity utilization, thus hindering the practical application of organodisulfide anolytes in ARFBs. Herein, we report a homogeneous catalysis strategy employing hydroxocobalamin (Vitamin B 12 , OHCbl) as an environmentally benign and biocompatible precatalyst which can enable molecular cobalamin(II) catalysis for organodisulfide anolytes. Cobalamin(II) generated in situ by electrochemical reduction of OHCbl bidirectionally accelerates the redox reactions of S─S bonds and significantly decreases the overpotential of the ARFB with SPS (bis(sodium sulfopropyl) disulfide) anolyte from 1.24 V to 0.36 V at 40 mA cm −2 , boosting the energy efficiency from 18% to 66%. The OHCbl‐catalyzed ARFB with 1.0 M SPS anolyte delivers a capacity of 51.45 Ah L −1 operated at 100% state of charge and remains stable for 850 cycles at 50 mA cm −2 with a low decay rate of 0.0189% per day. Moreover, a nearly saturated 1.3 M SPS‐based ARFB achieves 96.2% capacity utilization, corresponding to 67.05 Ah L −1 delivered capacity. This cobalamin(II) catalysis strategy addresses the kinetic bottlenecks inherent to organodisulfide‐based anolytes for ARFBs.

Non-rotational multi-channel endoscopic OCT for trajectory-resolved imaging in stereotactic brain biopsy