bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super SEI‐Forming Anion for Enhanced Interfacial Stability in Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Song Ziyu , Tian Mengyu , Zhu Jing , Chen Jiayi , Feng Wenfang , Ben Liubin , Yu Hailong , Huang Xuejie , Armand Michel , Zhou Zhibin , Zhang Heng
Published: October 2024

The extremely high chemical reactivity of lithium metal (Li°) electrodes and its enormous volume change during repetitive cycles cause continuous interfacial degradations in prevailing organic electrolytes, thus deteriorating the cycling performances of rechargeable lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, departing from traditional wisdom on the design of electrolyte components, a super SEI‐forming anion (SSA), as an efficient percussor for building stable interphases on Li° electrode, is proposed. Comprehensive investigations related to the unique anion chemistry of SSA reveal that the sulfonate and polyfluoroalkyl functionalities synergistically contribute to uniform spatial distributions of designer interfacial species, greatly improving the surface coverage property and conformal ability of the resulting interphases. Consequently, the incorporation of SSA leads to significant improvements in the cyclability of Li° electrode (exceeding 575 mAh cm−2 before failure) and the corresponding rechargeable Li°||LiFePO4 cells [a five‐time increase in lifespan as compared to the benchmark cell with the popular SEI‐forming anion bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (FSI)]. The present work offers a paradigm shift to tame the notorious interfacial issues via upgraded anion chemistry, which can promote the practical development of rechargeable LMBs and other kinds of metal batteries.
A Novel Upside‐Down Thermal Annealing Method Toward High‐Quality Active Layers Enables Organic Solar Cells with Efficiency Approaching 20%
Authors: Wang Yufei , Sun Kangbo , Li Chao , Zhao Chaoyue , Gao Chuanlin , Zhu Liangxiang , Bai Qing , Xie Chen , You Peng , Lv Jie , Sun Xiaokang , Hu Hanlin , Wang Zhibo , Hu Huawei , Tang Zeguo , He Bin , Qiu Mingxia , Li Shunpu , Zhang Guangye
Published: October 2024

The emerging non‐fullerene acceptors with low voltage losses have pushed the power conversion efficiency of organic solar cells (OSCs) to ≈20% with auxiliary morphology optimization. Thermal annealing (TA), as the most widely adopted post‐treatment method, has been playing an essential role in realizing the potential of various material systems. However, the procedure of TA, i.e., the way that TA is performed, is almost identical among thousands of OSC papers since ≈30 years ago other than changes in temperature and annealing time. Herein, a reverse thermal annealing (RTA) technique is developed, which can enhance the dielectric constant of active layer film, thereby producing a smaller Coulomb capture radius (14.93 nm), meanwhile, forming a moderate nano‐scale phase aggregation and a more favorable face‐on molecular stacking orientation. Thus, this method can reduce the decline in open circuit voltage of the conventional TA method by achieving decreased radiative (0.334 eV) and non‐radiative (0.215 eV) recombination loss. The power conversion efficiency of the RTA PM6:L8‐BO‐X device increases to 19.91% (certified 19.42%) compared to the TA device (18.98%). It is shown that this method exhibits a superb universality in 4 other material systems, revealing its dramatic potential to be employed in a wide range of OSCs.
Glassy Carbon Fiber‐Like Multielectrode Arrays for Neurochemical Sensing and Electrophysiology Recording
Authors: Castagnola Elisa , Cao Qun , Robbins Elaine , Wu Bingchen , Pwint May Yoon , Siwakoti Umisha , Cui X. Tracy
Published: October 2024

Real‐time measurement of neurochemical and electrophysiological activities in the living brain is vital for advancing neuroscience and understanding brain disorders. Carbon fiber microelectrodes (CFEs) have been widely utilized for in vivo electrochemical detection due to their subcellular size, biocompatibility, and desirable electrochemical properties, and CFE arrays have demonstrated excellent multi‐site chronic sensing of dopamine (DA) and neural activity recording capabilities. However, manual fabrication of CFE arrays lacks reproducibility and batch production capacity. Alternatively, photolithography enables batch fabrication of glassy carbon (GC) multielectrode arrays (GC‐MEAs) with high resolution and reproducibility, but the insertion of planar flexible MEAs poses challenges. In this study, GC fiber‐like (GCF) MEAs are presented and fabricated using photolithography. The GCF MEAs feature fiber‐like GC electrodes with small cross‐sections, facilitating self‐insertion into brain tissue without additional aids. Batch fabrication of GCF MEAs allows for customizable designs with minimal manual intervention. Comparative analysis with CFEs demonstrates improved electrochemical properties of GCF. In vivo experiments in mouse brains confirm the GCF MEAs' ability to measure neurotransmitter concentrations and record neural activities. This novel fabrication approach is promising for multimodal electrical and chemical measurements with minimal footprint, offering significant advancements in neural interface technology for neuroscience research and clinical applications.
Fe3+ Assisted Synthesis of Stable 3D‐in‐2D CsPbBr3/CsPb2Br5 Nanocomposites for Optical Gain Media
Authors: Bhosale Sumit S. , Narra Sudhakar , Yang Ruiqi , Yurtsever Aycan , Légaré François , Diau Eric Wei‐Guang , Ma Dongling
Published: October 2024

Metal halide perovskite nanocrystals are sought after for many optical and optoelectronic applications, such as light‐emitting diode and solar cells, due to their outstanding optical properties. However, their ionic nature makes them susceptible to ambient conditions. One rational solution to this challenge is the passivation or encapsulation of perovskite nanocrystals to isolate them from their environments. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop efficient methods for encapsulating emissive perovskite nanocrystals. A facile post‐synthesis method is proposed to treat CsxFA(1−x)PbBr3 nanocrystals, in the presence of Fe3+ cations, to create a robust and water‐stable nanocomposite structure, where 3D CsPbBr3 nanocrystals are embedded in and thus protected by the 2D CsPb2Br5 nanosheets (named as CsPbBr3/CsPb2Br5 hereafter). These Fe3+ cations facilitate the formation of the CsPbBr3/CsPb2Br5 composite and regulate the growth of 2D CsPb2Br5 sheets. By performing controlled experiments, the possible mechanism of 2D nanosheet growth is proposed and discussed in detail. More importantly, the composite can remain stable in water for three months and exhibits amplified spontaneous emission under femtosecond laser irradiation. This work presents a synthesis pathway for producing durable perovskite composites that are promising for future lasing applications.
Versatile Molecular Structure Strategy Toward Highly Efficient Single‐Component White Organic Light–Emitting Diodes
Authors: Fang Kaibo , Zhang Jiasen , Li Wei , Mu Xilin , Liu Chunyu , Wu Yujie , Feng Tingting , Wang Tao , Ge Ziyi
Published: October 2024

Luminophores' dual emission (DE) properties hold great potential for realizing single‐component white organic light–emitting diodes (WOLEDs). This study illustrates that the unique and vibrant DE phenomena with different luminous mechanisms can be formed through simple modulation of molecular structures. Four target luminophores, namely 2‐TPE‐PPI, 2‐TPE‐PI, 2‐TPE‐An‐PPI, and 2‐TPE‐An‐PI, capable of DE under different conditions, are intentionally designed and successfully synthesized. Owing to the inherent flexibility of the minor molecular backbone and minor steric hindrance, 2‐TPE‐PPI and 2‐TPE‐PI exhibit DE spectra in dilute solutions with different solvent polarities. The intrinsic cause of the DE phenomenon in 2‐TPE‐An‐PPI and 2‐TPE‐An‐PI arises from the localized distribution of frontier molecular orbits resulting from the presence of an anthracene unit and the formation of an exciter group through intermolecular interactions involving anthracene. Remarkably, single‐emissive‐layer WOLEDs based on 2‐TPE‐An‐PPI and 2‐TPE‐An‐PI demonstrate stable white emission with CIE coordinates at (0.33, 0.39) and (0.30, 0.39), respectively, closely approaching the CIE coordinates of standard white light. Moreover, they maintain stable EL spectra from 4 to 10 V, an exceptional attribute rarely observed in many white light devices.
Realizing Tunable Long Persistent Luminescent in Novel Cu2+‐Doped NaGaO2 for Multi‐Level Information Storage and Encryption
Authors: Liang Liang , Yang Heyi , Chen Yuqi , Ding Yang , Zhao Fangyi , Mao Qinan , Liu Meijiao , Zhong Jiasong
Published: October 2024

Anti‐counterfeiting and encryption are key technologies for information transmission in modern society. However, most optical materials offer only a single fixed response mode, limiting their security level in advanced anti‐counterfeiting applications. Exploring efficient and tunable long persistent luminescent (LPL) phosphors is urgently demanded and highly meaningful. In this work, a dual‐site occupancy strategy is innovatively reported via Li+ doped NaGaO2: Cu2+ (NGO: Cu2+/Li+) phosphors for enhancing LPL properties. To be specific, Cu2+ initially occupies both Na and Ga sites in NaGaO2, producing orange–yellow LPL at 585 nm and near‐infrared (NIR) emission at 712 nm, respectively. Furthermore, the introduction of Li+ will occupy the Na+ sites, attenuating the NIR emission and increasing the defect density of the oxygen‐deficient states, which results in enhanced LPL intensity and prolonged afterglow time. Significantly, the obtained NGO:Cu2+/Li+ exhibits multi‐emission modes with dynamic change of LPL time (10–20 min). More importantly, the NGO: Cu2+/Li+ has great potential applications in multi‐level information storage and encryption.
Metal Nanowire‐Induced Enhancement of Surface Emission in Luminescent Glass
Authors: Wang Yixin , Xiang Qixuan , Xie Quan , Zhao Yaping , Jiang Chun
Published: October 2024

Luminescent glass, as an important component of photonic materials, is extensively utilized in applications such as lasers and optical fiber amplifiers, which demand high quantum efficiency. To further enhance the surface emission performance of luminescent glass, this study introduces a novel approach by employing custom‐made metal nanowires, applying them as coatings on the surface of Erbium‐doped glass, rather than embedding traditional metal nanoparticles. Utilizing experimental techniques and Finite‐Difference Time‐Domain (FDTD) simulations, it is demonstrated that the surface‐emission from Erbium‐doped glass coated with silver nanowires or copper nanowire‐graphene hybrids is significantly increased, showing an enhancement rate of up to 117.27% compared to intrinsic glass. Extended FDTD analysis reveals that variations in the size and density of the nanowires can optimize emission characteristics, thereby improving the emission performance of luminescent glass. The enhancement of the local electromagnetic field at the interface underscores the efficacy of metal nanowires in boosting photonic materials. This study not only highlights the practicality of metal nanowires in photonics but also introduces a rapid deployment pathway for customizing photonic interactions through nano‐engineering, potentially extendable to other photonic materials.
Tillage and cover cropping influence phosphorus dynamics in soil and water pools
Authors: Kaur Harpreet , Singh Gurbir , Williard Karl , Schoonover Jon , Nelson Kelly A. , Kaur Gurpreet
Published: October 2024

Winter cover crops (CCs) have the potential to reduce phosphorus (P) loss by temporarily fixing P into CC biomass. A field experiment with no‐tillage (NT) and conventional tillage (CT) was used to study the ability of different CC species planted after corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L.) harvests to reduce the P availability in soil solution. The effect of three crop rotations (corn–no CC–soybean–no CC [C–S], corn–cereal rye (Secale cereale)–soybean–hairy vetch (Vicia villosa) [C–R–S–HV], corn–cereal rye–soybean–oats (Avena sativa)+ radish (Raphanus sativus L.) [C–R–S–OR]) and two tillage (NT and CT) treatments was determined on soil available P and soil solution P content through pan (A horizon) and tension (100‐cm depth) cup lysimeters. The experiment was set up as a randomized complete block design with tillage as a split factor with three replicates. Over the study period, incorporating hairy vetch in C–R–S–HV rotation reduced the Mehlich‐3 P content in soil by 26%–29% compared to the C–S and C–R–S–OR rotation. Both CC rotations (C–R–S–HV and C–R–S–OR) were effective in reducing dissolved reactive P (DRP) concentration in pan and tension cup lysimeters compared to the C–S in both CT and NT systems. However, these results varied with CC species grown and seasonal variability in precipitation. A significantly lower DRP load with crop rotation and tillage treatments was observed mainly during the CC growing season. During the study period, crop rotations with reduced labile soil P content and DRP loss were ranked in an order of C–R–S–HV > C–R–S–OR > C–S. Overall, this study showed that CCs have the potential in both CT and NT systems to significantly reduce P in soil and soil solution, and these effects are resilient to a wide range of precipitation conditions.
Mechanochemical Conditions for Intramolecular N−O Couplings via Rhodium Nitrenoids Generated from N‐Acyl Sulfonimidamides
Authors: Pan Shulei , Wu Peng , Bampi Dimitra , Ward Jas S. , Rissanen Kari , Bolm Carsten
Published: October 2024

Starting from N‐acyl sulfonimidamides, mechanochemically generated rhodium nitrenoids undergo intramolecular N−O couplings to provide unprecedented 1,3,2,4‐oxathiadiazole 3‐oxides in good to excellent yields. The cyclization proceeds efficiently with a catalyst loading of only 0.5 mol % in the presence of phenyliodine(III) diacetate (PIDA) as oxidant. Neither an inert atmosphere nor additional heating is required in this solvent‐free procedure. Under heat or blue light, the newly formed five‐membered heterocycles function as nitrene precursors reacting with sulfoxides as exemplified by the imidation of dimethyl sulfoxide.
Does H2 Temperature‐Programmed Reduction Always Probe Solid‐State Redox Chemistry? The Case of Pt/CeO2
Authors: Lee Jaeha , Christopher Phillip
Published: October 2024

Redox reactions on the surface of transition metal oxides are of broad interest in thermo, photo, and electrocatalysis. H2 temperature‐programmed reduction (H2‐TPR) is commonly used to probe oxide reducibility by measuring the rate of H2 consumption during temperature ramps, assuming that this rate is controlled by oxide reduction. However, oxide reduction involves several elementary steps, such as H2 dissociation and H‐spillover, before surface reduction and H2O formation occur. In this study, we evaluated the kinetics of H2 consumption over CeO2 and Pt/CeO2 with varying Pt loadings and structures to identify the elementary steps probed by H2‐TPR. Literature often attributes changes in H2‐TPR characteristics with Pt addition to increased CeO2 reducibility. However, our analysis revealed that the H2 consumption rate is measurement of the rate of H‐spillover at Pt‐CeO2 interfaces and is determined by the concentration of Pt species on Pt nanoclusters that dissociate H2. Therefore, lower temperature H2 consumption observed with Pt addition does not indicate higher CeO2 reducibility. Measurements on samples with mixtures of Pt single‐atoms and nanoclusters demonstrated that H2‐TPR can effectively quantify dilute Pt nanocluster concentrations, suggesting caution in directly linking H2‐TPR characteristics to oxide reducibility while highlighting alternative material insights that can be gleaned.
Pentathiepins are an understudied molecular prism of biological activities
Authors: Pozzetti Luca , Asquith Christopher R. M.
Published: October 2024

The pentathiepin core was first synthesized in 1971, and while synthetic techniques have progressed over subsequent decades, the biological applications of this heterocycle have received less attention and are only now becoming more apparent. The first natural product, varacin, was identified in 1991, showing cytotoxicity toward a human colon cancer cell line. More recently, the pentathiepin has acted as a surrogate to replace elemental sulfur, that was discovered as a hit in neurodegenerative animal models. A variety of other medicinal chemistry applications have recently been disclosed. Here, we summarize these indications and highlight the main synthetic pathways to access the pentathiepin core. We offer a concise summary and future perspective of this unique sulfur isosteric replacement.
HX Velorum: Ellipsoidal/Rotational Binary With β Cep Type Component
Authors: Gürol B.
Published: October 2024

We present the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) light curve analysis of HX Velorum, located in the Southern Hemisphere, where one of the components is found for the first time to be a Cep (BCEP) type pulsator. The TESS observations of HX Velorum were published in a total of 6 sectors. Fourier analysis of the observations reveals that the frequencies can be divided into two categories, one of which is related to the orbital period and the other related to the Cep‐type pulsation. Its non‐eclipsing light curve was analyzed with the well‐known Wilson–Devinney code, and we obtained the geometric and physical parameters of the components using published radial velocity and light curve data by making some assumptions. We obtained plausible masses and radii of the primary and secondary components as , and , , respectively. The obtained system's distance of pc is smaller than the Gaia distances found in the literature.
Congenital Anomalies of the Gastrointestinal Tract in Conjunction of Congenital Heart Diseases in Infants With Trisomy 21
Authors: Peluso Allison M. , Farghaly Mohsen A. A. , Aly Hany , Mohamed Mohamed A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Infants with Trisomy 21 are known to have increased incidence congenital anomalies including congenital heart diseases (CHD) and congenital gastrointestinal anomalies. It is not known if there are patterns of coexistence.

Objectives

To examine the coexistence of CHD with various gastrointestinal anomalies in infants with Trisomy 21.

Methods

We assessed a sample of infants with Trisomy 21 from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS), and its KID subversion, produced by the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project for 2003–2015. We identified CHD using international classification of diseases version 9 (ICD9) and categorized them into four groups: left sided lesions, right sided lesions, conotruncal lesions, and shunt lesions. We identified small intestinal atresia and Hirschsprung disease with ICD9 codes.

Results

The sample included 81,561 newborn infants diagnosed with Trisomy 21; 45% of them had CHD; 4.7% had small intestinal atresia, and 1.6% had Hirschsprung disease. All subcategories of CHD were associated with increased incidence of both small intestinal atresia and Hirschsprung disease, p value < 0.05 compared to infants with Trisomy 21 who did not have CHD.

Conclusions

Among infants with Trisomy 21, the presence of CHD increased the odds of a concomitant congenital GI anomaly.
Genome‐Scale Metabolic Modeling of Halomonas elongata 153B Explains Polyhydroxyalkanoate and Ectoine Biosynthesis in Hypersaline Environments
Authors: Enuh Blaise Manga , Aytar Çelik Pınar , Angione Claudio
Published: October 2024

Halomonas elongata thrives in hypersaline environments producing polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and osmoprotectants such as ectoine. Despite its biotechnological importance, several aspects of the dynamics of its metabolism remain elusive. Here, we construct and validate a genome‐scale metabolic network model for H. elongata 153B. Then, we investigate the flux distribution dynamics during optimal growth, ectoine, and PHA biosynthesis using statistical methods, and a pipeline based on shadow prices. Lastly, we use optimization algorithms to uncover novel engineering targets to increase PHA production. The resulting model (iEB1239) includes 1534 metabolites, 2314 reactions, and 1239 genes. iEB1239 can reproduce growth on several carbon sources and predict growth on previously unreported ones. It also reproduces biochemical phenotypes related to Oad and Ppc gene functions in ectoine biosynthesis. A flux distribution analysis during optimal ectoine and PHA biosynthesis shows decreased energy production through oxidative phosphorylation. Furthermore, our analysis unveils a diverse spectrum of metabolic alterations that extend beyond mere flux changes to encompass heightened precursor production for ectoine and PHA synthesis. Crucially, these findings capture other metabolic changes linked to adaptation in hypersaline environments. Bottlenecks in the glycolysis and fatty acid metabolism pathways are identified, in addition to PhaC, which has been shown to increase PHA production when overexpressed. Overall, our pipeline demonstrates the potential of genome‐scale metabolic models in combination with statistical approaches to obtain insights into the metabolism of H. elongata. Our platform can be exploited for researching environmental adaptation, and for designing and optimizing metabolic engineering strategies for bioproduct synthesis.
25SrRNA Methyltransferase CgBMT5 From Candida glycerinogenes Improves Tolerance and Fermentation Performance of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Yarrowia lipolytica From Undetoxified Cellulose Hydrolysate
Authors: Lu Xinyao , Hao Xiaoqing , Lv Wen , Zhuge Bin , Zong Hong
Published: October 2024

The hydrolysis of cellulose generates inhibitors like acetate, suppressing fermentation performance. Here, 25SrRNA methyltransferase CgBMT5 from stress‐tolerant yeast Candida glycerinogenes was used as an anti‐stress gene element in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Yarrowia lipolytica. Expression of CgBMT5 in S. cerevisiae increased cell tolerance to acetate, high osmolarity, and heat stress and rescued the delay in cell growth under acetate stress. Ethanol productivity was improved from 0.52 g·(L/h) to 0.69 g·(L/h). CgBMT5 improved GFP expression. The transcription factor ARG81 binds to the promoter of CgBMT5. CgBMT5 upregulated HOG1, GPD1, HAA1, and PMA1 and reduced ROS level, thereby improving cell resistance to acetate. CgBMT5 also improved resistance of Y. lipolytica Po1g to multiple‐stress. The lipid titer was improved by 37% in the typical medium. Y. lipolytica‐CgBMT5 produced 94 mg/L lipid in the undetoxified cellulose hydrolysate.
A Novel and Simplified Anion Exchange Flow‐Through Polishing Approach for the Separation of Full From Empty Adeno‐Associated Virus Capsids
Authors: Meierrieks Frederik , Weltken Alisa , Pflanz Karl , Pickl Andreas , Graf Benjamin , Wolff Michael W.
Published: October 2024

Adeno‐associated viruses (AAV) are widely used viral vectors for in vivo gene therapy. The purification of AAV, particularly the separation of genome‐containing from empty AAV capsids, is usually time‐consuming and requires expensive equipment. In this study, we present a novel laboratory scale anion exchange flow‐through polishing method designed to separate full and empty AAV. Once the appropriate conditions are defined, this method eliminates the need for a chromatography system. Determination of optimal polishing conditions using a chromatography system revealed that the divalent salt MgCl2 resulted in better separation of full and empty AAV than the monovalent salt NaCl. The efficacy of the method was demonstrated for three distinct AAV serotypes (AAV8, AAV5, and AAV2) on two different stationary phases: a membrane adsorber and a monolith, resulting in a 4‐ to 7.5‐fold enrichment of full AAV particles. Moreover, the method was shown to preserve the AAV capsids’ functional potency and structural integrity. Following the successful establishment of the flow‐through polishing approach, it was adapted to a manual syringe‐based system. Manual flow‐through polishing using the monolith or membrane adsorber achieved 3.6‐ and 5.4‐fold enrichment of full AAV, respectively. This study demonstrates the feasibility of separating full and empty AAV without complex linear or step gradient elution and the necessity of specialized equipment. Flow‐through polishing provides a rapid and easy‐to‐perform platform for polishing multiple vector preparations, addressing a critical aspect in the research and development of novel gene therapies.
Concentration‐Dependent Effects of MXene Nanocomposite‐Loaded Carboxymethyl Cellulose on Wound Healing
Authors: Nasser Salma , Elkodous Mohamed Abd , Tawfik Rasha , Tohamy Hossam , El‐Kammar Mahmoud , Nouh Samir , Elkhenany Hoda
Published: October 2024

Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as a promising solution for many biomedical applications. Although not all particles have antimicrobial or regenerative properties, certain NPs show promise in enhancing wound healing by promoting tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, and preventing infection. Integrating various NPs can further enhance these effects. Herein, the zinc oxide (ZnO)‐MXene‐Ag nanocomposite was prepared, and the conjugation of its three components was confirmed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) mapping analysis. In vitro analysis using the agar well diffusion technique demonstrated that ZnO‐MXene‐Ag nanocomposite exhibited high antimicrobial efficacy, significantly inhibiting Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Candida albicans, and showing enhanced potency when combined with tetracycline, resulting in a 2.6‐fold increase against Staphylococcus and a 2.4‐fold increase against Pseudomonas. The efficacy of nanocomposite‐loaded carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) gel on wound healing was investigated using varying concentrations (0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/mL). Wound healing was monitored over 21 days, with results indicating that wounds treated with 1 mg/mL ZnO‐MXene‐Ag gel exhibited superior healing compared to the control group (0 mg/mL), with significant improvements noted from Day 3 onward. Conversely, higher concentrations (10 mg/mL) resulted in reduced healing efficiency, particularly notable on Day 15. In conclusion, the ZnO‐MXene‐Ag nanocomposite‐loaded CMC gel is a promising agent for enhanced wound healing and antimicrobial applications. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing NP concentration to maximize therapeutic benefits while minimizing potential cytotoxicity.
Chitosan/Fibroin Biopolymer‐Based Hydrogels for Potential Angiogenesis in Developing Chicks and Accelerated Wound Healing in Mice
Authors: Dawood Hafiza Zubia , Ara Chaman , Asmatullah  , Jabeen Sehrish , Islam Atif , Ghauri Zunaira Huma
Published: October 2024

Potential therapies for wound management remain one of the most challenging affairs to date. Biopolymer hydrogels possess inherent properties that facilitate the healing of damaged tissue by creating a supportive and hydrated environment. Chitosan/fibroin hydrogels were formulated with poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) and cross‐linked using 3‐aminopropyl (diethoxy) methylsilane (APDEMS) for the aforementioned function. The hydrogels were characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy, and their swelling response was observed using a variety of solvents. Additionally, hydrogels were investigated for biomedical applications. As the amount of fibroin added to the hydrogels increased, the swelling ratio decreased. The analysis of chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay revealed that higher concentrations of fibroin in the hydrogel were directly correlated with increased angiogenesis. The intragroup comparison showed that the vascular number in the CPF5 group was significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05) compared to other hydrogel groups. The wound healing efficiency of the prepared hydrogels showed that the rate of wound reduction (99.06%) was remarkably (p ≤ 0.05) high in the hydrogel group with a greater fibroin content against control (67.03%). Histological findings of wounded tissues corroborate the abovementioned results, showing dense fibrous connective tissues in the fibroin group compared to the control. The results of this work provide thorough preclinical evidence that chitosan‐fibroin biopolymers are involved in enhanced angiogenesis in growing chicks and speed up wound healing in mice without any obvious toxicity.
Long‐term outcomes of DCB and DES for the treatment of in‐stent restenosis in relation to the vessel size
Authors: Iwańczyk Sylwia , Wolny Rafał , Januszek Rafał , Gil Robert J. , Cortese Bernardo , Kubler Piotr , Wojakowski Wojciech , Grygier Marek , Lesiak Maciej , Wańha Wojciech
Published: October 2024

Background

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug‐coated balloons (DCB) or drug‐eluting stents (DES) are well‐established treatments for in‐stent restenosis, however little is known about the impact of vessel size on the outcomes. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of DCB versus DES in DES in‐stent restenosis depending on the vessel size.

Methods

Consecutive patients with DES in‐stent restenosis who underwent PCI between January 2010 and February 2018 entered the registry with a long‐term follow‐up. Patients who received DCB at the index procedure were compared with those who received DES in three subgroups depending on the vessel size (≤2.5 mm; 2.5–3.5 mm; >3.5 mm). Data were analyzed using propensity score matching and Kaplan‐Meier estimator plots.

Results

Among 1,374 patients with DES in‐stent restenosis, 615 were treated with DES and 759 with DCB. After propensity score matching, we analyzed 752 patients in the DES and DCB groups at a long‐term follow‐up. The risk of DOCE did not differ significantly between the DES and DCB groups, both in the overall population (HR 0.85; 95%CI [0.58; 1.26], log‐rank p = 0.41) and when divided into small (HR 0.84; 95%CI [0.36; 1.95], log‐rank p = 0.70), medium‐sized (HR 0.90; 95%CI [0.49; 1.65], log‐rank p = 0.73), and large‐sized (HR 0.81; 95%CI [0.42; 1.53], log‐rank p = 0.50) coronary arteries. The incidence of all‐cause death was significantly higher in the overall DES population (HR 4.03; 95%CI [2.40; 6.79], log‐rank p < 0.001) and subgroup of small (HR 5.54; 95%CI [1.80; 17.02], log‐rank p = 0.003), medium‐sized (HR 4.37; 95%CI [1.92; 9.94], log‐rank p = 0.009) and large‐sized coronary arteries (HR 3.26; 95%CI [1.35; 7.86], log‐rank p = 0.02).

Conclusions

DES and DCB strategies are comparable methods of treating ISR regardless of the diameter of the treated vessel in a long‐term follow‐up.
Successful transarterial embolization of hemorrhage following percutaneous liver biopsy in hepatic amyloidosis
Authors: Feinggumloon Sasikorn , Panpikoon Tanapong , Piyajaroenkij Thanakrit , Prasertchai Tanatip , Treesit Tharintorn
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Percutaneous liver biopsy is essential for diagnosing hepatic amyloidosis. Post biopsy hemorrhage is unusual but can occur. The potential for bleeding can result from various factors, such as the deposition of amyloid in the hepatic parenchyma or vessel wall, deficiencies in coagulation factors, hyperfibrinolysis, and platelet dysfunction. Transarterial embolization can be a safe and effective method for achieving hemostasis.
Oxidative Cleavage of Aromatic C−O Linkages by Oxoammonium Salts
Authors: Sun Wenjing , Wang Yongtao , Liu Jiaxin , Hu Qixuan , Yu Kehan , Wen Zeyu , Yao Jia , Li Haoran
Published: October 2024

Oxidative cleavage of aromatic C(sp2)−O bond is important to the conversion of biomass and plastic wastes into value‐added chemicals. Here we put forward the oxidative cleavage of para‐C−O bonds in phenolic compounds in use of oxoammonium salts as oxidant and water as the oxygen source. The mechanism is that oxoammonium cation activates water to form hydroxy‐oxoammonium adduct and thus realizes the ipso‐substitution of 4‐alkoxyphenol, which is proved by substituent effect, isotope labelling experiments, and kinetic analysis. Furthermore, this protocol is successfully applied into the depolymerization of both lignin model compounds with α‐O‐5 and 4‐O‐5 linkages and polyphenylene oxide (PPO).
Unprecedented Cubic Mesomorphic Behaviour of Crown‐Ether Functionalized Amphiphilic Cyclodextrins
Authors: Espejo Jayar , Zellmann‐Parrotta Carson O. , Sarkar Diganta , Che Austin , Michaelis Vladimir K. , Williams Vance E. , Ling Chang‐Chun
Published: October 2024

Amphiphilic supramolecular materials based on biodegradable cyclodextrins (CDs) have been known to self‐assemble into different types of thermotropic liquid crystals, including smectic and hexagonal columnar mesophases. Previous studies on amphiphilic CDs bearing 14 aliphatic chains at the secondary face and 7 oligoethylene glycol (OEG) chains at the primary face showed that the stability of the mesophase can be rationally tuned through implementation of terminal functional groups to the OEG chains. Here, we report the syntheses of first examples of crown ether‐functionalized amphiphilic cyclodextrins that unexpectedly form thermotropic bicontinuous cubic phases. This constitutes the first reported examples of cyclodextrins forming such phases, which are potentially capable of 3D ion transport. Lithium composites were made to assess lithium conduction in the material. XRD revealed the added lithium salt destabilizes the cubic phase in favour of the smectic phase. Solid‐state NMR studies showed that these materials conduct lithium ions with a very low activation energy.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Spiro[Indoline‐3,4‐Pyrrolo[3,4‐b]Pyridines] Via an Organocatalysed Three‐Component Cascade Reaction
Authors: Sun Yuhong , Jin Yan , Gu Yingying , Liu Jinming , Wang Liming , Jin Ying
Published: October 2024

Asymmetric synthesis of derivatives of spiro[indoline‐3,4‐pyrrolo[3,4‐b]pyridines] were first developed through the organocatalytic cascade of Knoevenagel/Michael/cyclization reactions using a quinidine‐derived squaramide. Under the optimized conditions, the three‐component reactions of isatins, cyanoacetates, and 3‐aminomaleimides yield the desired heterocycle‐fused spirooxindoles in good yields (78–91 %) with 53 %–99 % enantiomeric excess (ee). Notably, this reaction enables a broad substrate scope under mild conditions and provides a convenient method for the enantioselective construction of diverse spirooxindoles combined with dihydropyridine and maleimide skeletons, which has great potential for the construction of new bioactive chemical entities.
Determination of Ibuprofen Enantiomers in Mouse Blood Using Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Its Application to a Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Li Yuexin , Li Jinglai , Yang Huanhuan , Luo Huan , Liu Shiqi , Han Furong , Ruan Zhipeng , Xiong Zhili
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to establish a simple, fast, and sensitive method with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) for simultaneously determining ibuprofen enantiomers using mouse blood in very small volumes. LC–MS/MS equipped with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source was used in negative ion mode and multiple‐reaction monitoring mode. Enantiomer chromatographic separation was carried out on a Lux® 5 μm Cellulose‐3 (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/min. Samples were pretreated by extracting only 5 μL of blood with 40 μL of acetonitrile (containing 1.3% formic acid) so that a concentration‐time profile could be completed using a single mouse. 2‐(4‐Propylphenyl) propanoic acid was used as an internal standard. Standard curves for each enantiomer were linear from 0.04 to 80.00 μg/mL, demonstrating a lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) than all previously reported methods. This method was completely validated and successfully executed to investigate the pharmacokinetics of ibuprofen enantiomers after intravenous administration of racemic ibuprofen, (S)‐(+)‐ibuprofen, and (R)‐(−)‐ibuprofen in Kunming mice, respectively. The results showed that the pharmacokinetic profiles of the (R)‐(−)‐ibuprofen and (S)‐(+)‐ibuprofen were significantly different, indicating the unidirectional inversion of R‐(−)‐ibuprofen to (S)‐(+)‐ibuprofen.
Effects of pressure depletion rate, solvent, and surfactant on non‐equilibrium reactions in foamy oil
Authors: Sabeti Morteza , Torabi Farshid , Cheperli Ali
Published: October 2024

This research employed a visual method to explore the behaviour of foamy oil in heavy oil systems. A Hele‐Shaw cell was designed for observing the volumetric expansion of foamy oil as the system pressure decreased. This approach facilitated an examination of foamy oil's interface evolution under pressure depletion and an analysis of bubble sizes and their distribution. Using Minitab, 15 experiments were strategized, aimed at observing the distribution of bubbles and their stability during the foamy oil process. The investigation also extended to studying the influence of surfactants, solvent type, and pressure reduction rate on foamy oil. The findings suggest that a high concentration of surfactant, a high percentage of CO2 solvent, and a rapid pressure drop rate all contributed to the generation of microbubbles and enhanced volumetric expansion and stability of foamy oil. However, in light of the conducted energy analysis, a lower rate of pressure reduction is recommended. Finally, the conditions of the 15 experiments were applied to the CMG to derive two non‐equilibrium reactions for bubble generation and collapsing. The reaction rates are such that they relate bubble generation to the pressure reduction rate of the process and bubble resistance to collapsing to the surfactant concentration of the foamy oil.
Uniqueness of the blow‐down limit for a triple junction problem
Authors: Geng Zhiyuan
Published: October 2024

We prove the uniqueness of blow‐down limit at infinity for an entire minimizing solution of a planar Allen–Cahn system with a triple‐well potential. Consequently, can be approximated by a triple junction map at infinity. The proof exploits a careful analysis of energy upper and lower bounds, ensuring that the diffuse interface remains within a small neighborhood of the approximated triple junction at all scales.
Response of cool‐season turfgrass monocultures and two‐way mixtures to sequential acute drought periods
Authors: Breuillin‐Sessoms Florence , Petrella Dominic , Deters Gary , Turbeville Jillian , Watkins Eric
Published: October 2024

Turfgrass seeds are often sold as mixtures of several species to increase the probability of positive responses toward abiotic and biotic stresses, a response to drought being one of these. Several species of turfgrass are already thought to be better suited for drought, such as hard fescue (Festuca brevipila Tracey) and tall fescue [Schedonorus arundinaceus (Schreb.) Dumort]. However, little is known about the benefit of these species in mixtures with drought‐intolerant and/or drought‐avoiding species during drought. Understanding species mixture composition during establishment, before and after drought stress periods, could help develop more resilient mixtures for this stress condition. We compared monocultures and mixtures of hard fescue, Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.), and perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) during sequential short drought and recovery periods in controlled conditions. We observed that the composition of most mixtures remained similar during drought and recovery periods; however, perennial ryegrass was often less prevalent after drought stress. We found that hard fescue monocultures had better green leaf coverage than Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass during drought stress. However, the presence of hard fescue in mixtures was not an indicator of greater drought tolerance, and variable fluorescence to maximal fluorescence data indicated that hard fescue was just as physiologically stressed as perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass during the drought periods. These results indicate that while hard fescue seems visually drought tolerant, it is still physiologically stressed and improved drought tolerance could be achieved through focusing on physiological indicators of stress in this species rather than visual indicators.
Rotary Topological Defects in an Oscillator Lattice Loop and Their Injection Locked Properties
Authors: Hirosawa Shunto , Narahara Koichi
Published: October 2024

The lattice loop formed by adjacent coupling of tunnel diode LC oscillators has been shown to generate topological defects due to broken mirror symmetry, which rotate in the opposite direction to the rotating pulse. Leveraging the injection locking of the rotational dynamics of these topological defects can lead to a subharmonic injection locking scheme with a large division ratio. This paper aims to enhance the design by elucidating the relationship between loop size, the number of topological defects, and the division ratio. Furthermore, we perform bifurcation analysis of the injection locking system, demonstrating that when the external signal strength reaches a certain threshold, defect pinning by the external signal occurs, leading to an extension of the lock range. The dynamics of topological defects are well suited to the so‐called progressive multiphase injection locking. In this paper, we clarify the degree of lock range extension achieved by introducing this technique.
The Essentials: Upskilling a National Health Workforce in the Identification and Treatment of Eating Disorders
Authors: Maloney Danielle , Ong Shu Hwa , Miskovic‐Wheatley Jane , Dann Kelly M. , Sidari Morgan , Hambleton Ashlea , Marks Peta , Maguire Sarah
Published: October 2024

Objective

Health practitioners report limited skills and lack of confidence in managing and treating people with eating disorders. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the national rollout of comprehensive basic training in identification, assessment, treatment, and management of people with eating disorders to clinicians.

Methods

The Essentials: Training Clinicians in Eating Disorders is a core competency eLearning program. As part of a nation‐wide multidisciplinary workforce training strategy, 7500 course places were provided free of charge to public and private health care professionals across all jurisdictions of Australia between January 2020 and March 2022.

Results

A total of 7370 health professionals enrolled during the study period. All learning outcomes showed improvement with large effect (Cohen's d = 1.2–2), with the largest improvements for self‐reported knowledge of requirements for working with children and adolescents. Effects did not depend on years of working with eating disorders suggesting that the training was beneficial across levels of experience. Those who started with very low knowledge of eating disorders or higher willingness to treat eating disorders were most likely to complete the course. Most participants reported that the course was relevant to their clinical practice, that they expected their clinical practices to change, and that they would recommend the course to other health professionals.

Discussion

The strategy to provide government‐funded core competency training in eating disorder care to healthcare professionals met key objectives by reaching health professionals eligible to provide government‐rebated services in public and private settings across all jurisdictions including regional and remote areas.
The leaf‐footed cactus bug is not a cactus specialist: Narnia femorata feeds, fights, and mates on thistle
Authors: Cirino Lauren A. , McEvoy Isaac , Smith Logan C. , Emberts Zachary
Published: October 2024

Novel host plants are incorporated into the diets of phytophagous insects when females oviposit and juveniles feed and survive on them. A change in diet, however, can have morphological consequences. We recently found a population of the leaf‐footed cactus bug, Narnia femorata (Hemiptera: Coreidae), a historical cactus specialist, living and feeding on Cirsium thistle. We also found adults breeding and males using their enlarged hind legs (i.e., weapons) in male–male combat on thistle. When we compared this thistle population with a population feeding on cactus, we found that both populations had similar body and weapon sizes as well as weapon composition. However, the population living on thistle had longer mouthparts than the population found on cactus, although this difference only occurred at larger body sizes. This difference in adult mouthpart size is likely a result of the juvenile rearing environment (i.e., thistle or cactus). However, genetic differences may also affect this trait. Our results provide some interesting avenues for future research (e.g., a reciprocal transplant experiment) in a species with a recent host range expansion.
Dune Hares: Population Indices, Home Range Size, and Habitat Selection of the European Hare on a Danish Island
Authors: Högberg Kleist Majbrit , Mortensen Rasmus Mohr , Bregnballe Thomas , Mayer Martin
Published: October 2024

Population indices, such as transect counts of animals, can provide important information concerning population changes over time. Moreover, data concerning the home range size and habitat selection of individuals can provide valuable insight into spatial requirements of animals and how they can adapt to variable environments. Here, we describe the population development of European hares (Lepus europaeus) and investigated home range sizes and habitat selection of six radio‐tagged individuals on the small (80 ha) Danish Wadden Sea island Langli. The average minimum hare population density from 1983 to 1997 was 64 ± 36 (mean ± SD) hares/km2, with hare numbers varying among years and seasons. The average home range size was 23.3 (CI: 18.9–28.7) ha, which is comparable to agricultural areas of high structural diversity. Moreover, hare habitat selection was generally bimodal, with hares moving over larger areas and selecting marsh habitat for foraging during nighttime, and dune and grassland habitat for resting during daytime, especially during winter. Combined, our results indicate that hare abundance and space use in the dunal landscape of Langli Island were similar to agricultural areas of comparatively high habitat quality. Thus, dunal marsh landscapes offer high‐quality habitat for hares and might be of importance as population strongholds at a time when hare populations are declining in many agricultural areas across Europe.
Information Regarding Shared Genes Between Humans Improves Attitudes Towards World Members
Authors: Du Kangning , Hunter John A. , Yogeeswaran Kumar , Scarf Damian , Arahanga‐Doyle Hitaua , Ruffman Ted
Published: October 2024

Laypeople reason that different races share 68% of their genes. In fact, the Human Genome Project indicates that humans, regardless of race, share 99.9% of our genetic material and that only 1/200th of 1% has been used to group people into the five classically conceived races. We reasoned that information about shared genetics might compel participants to extend their ingroup to include those formerly in the outgroup. In three studies, we showed participants an 11‐min video with this information and compared this to a music video. In Study 1, we examined 123 European New Zealanders and found that attitudes towards individuals in other countries (measured by questions such as How much do you believe in being loyal to all mankind?) improved significantly from pre‐ to post‐test compared to a music video detailing the effect of music on a child's brain. In Study 2, we replicated this effect with a group of 93 European participants in the United Kingdom. In Study 3, we replicated this effect again with a group of 150 participants from the United Kingdom and showed that the effect is independent of age, political orientation, need for cognitive control and submissiveness.