bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric properties of the Stanford Acute Stress Reaction Questionnaire (SASRQ): A valid and reliable measure of acute stress
Authors: Cardeña Etzel , Koopman Cheryl , Classen Catherine , Waelde Lynn C. , Spiegel David
Published: December 2002

A reliable and valid measure is needed for assessing the psychological symptoms experienced in the aftermath of a traumatic event. Previous research suggests that trauma victims typically experience dissociative, anxiety and other symptoms, during or shortly after a traumatic event. Although some of these symptoms may protect the trauma victim from pain, they may also lead to acute stress, posttraumatic stress, or other disorders. The Stanford Acute Stress Reaction Questionnaire (SASRQ) was developed to evaluate anxiety and dissociation symptoms in the aftermath of traumatic events, following DSM‐IV criteria for acute stress disorder. We present data from multiple datasets and analyses supporting the reliability and construct, convergent, discriminant, and predictive validity of the SASRQ.
Intimacy dysfunction and trauma symptomatology: Long‐term correlates of different types of child abuse
Authors: Davis Joanne L. , Petretic‐Jackson Patricia A. , Ting Ling
Published: December 2002

The relationships among interpersonal functioning, symptomatology, and childhood abuse were examined in 315 university women. Women reporting childhood abuse had lower quality of past interpersonal relationships, greater fear of intimacy, and greater trauma symptomatology than nonabused women had. Regression analyses indicated that experiencing both sexual and physical abuse, more extensive psychological abuse, and current sexual concerns, defensive avoidance, dissociation, and intrusive experiences were significant predictors of fear of intimacy. Dysfunctional sexual behaviors, impaired self‐reference, and depression were significant predictors of the quality of current interpersonal relationships, whereas sexual abuse or multiple abuse experiences in childhood and anger/irritability were predictors of the quality of prior interpersonal relationships. Implications for future research and treatment are discussed.
Prospective and retrospective life‐charting in posttraumatic stress disorder (the PTSD‐LCM): A pilot study
Authors: Osuch Elizabeth A. , Brotman Melissa A. , Podell Daniel , Geraci Marilla , Touzeau P. Lynn , Leverich Gabriele S. , McCann Una D. , Post Robert M.
Published: December 2002

The purpose of this study was to design and conduct a pilot analysis evaluating the utility of a longitudinal, graphic approach to the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Representative patients were instructed in the use of a daily prospective life‐chart; they were interviewed and their past medical records were examined for monthly retrospective life‐charting. The life charts were used to record life events, activating and inhibiting PTSD symptoms, comorbid symptoms, and treatment. Patients readily completed the prospective life‐chart and retrospectively rated symptoms associated with traumatic and nontraumatic life events. Life‐charting facilitated longitudinal depiction of the relationship of life experiences to PTSD symptoms and comorbidities, and the tracking of responses to medications.
The validity of the children's PTSD inventory
Authors: Yasik Anastasia E. , Saigh Philip A. , Oberfield Richard A. , Green Bonnie , Halamandaris Phill , McHugh Margaret
Published: December 2002

The Children's PTSD Inventory (CPTSDI) was administered to 76 traumatized and 28 nontraumatized youths. CPTSDI diagnoses were compared to DICA‐R and SCID PTSD diagnoses. Moderate to high sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive power, and diagnostic efficiency were evidenced across criterion measures. Convergent validity was evidenced by significant correlations with the Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale, Children's Depression Inventory, Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) Internalizing scale, and the Junior Eysenck Personality Inventory (JEPI) Neuroticism scale. Discriminant validity was observed through nonsignificant correlations with the CBCL Externalizing and the JEPI Extroversion scales.
The relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder, childhood trauma and alexithymia in an outpatient sample
Authors: Zlotnick Caron , Mattia Jill I. , Zimmerman Mark
Published: December 2002

One aim of this study was to examine the strength of association between post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alexithymia relative to other psychiatric disorders in a sample of 252 treatment‐seeking psychiatric patients. The other aim of this study was to explore which type of childhood trauma was associated with a greater level of adult alexithymia. The study found that PTSD and borderline personality disorder (BPD) were the two disorders among selected psychiatric disorders to contribute independently to a higher degree of alexithymia. Another finding was that a greater severity of emotional neglect and physical neglect, rather than abuse, was significantly related to higher levels of alexithymia. In addition, the study found that among these variables, BPD had the strongest relationship to alexithymia.
The Experience of Leader‐Led Peer Supervision: Genetic Counselors' Perspectives
Authors: Hiller Elaine , Rosenfield Janet M.
Published: December 2002

As we proceed through our professional lives, it is essential that we challengeourselves in order to continue to develop our genetic counseling skills. Conferences, workshops, post‐graduate courses, journal clubs, and involvement in professional organizations havebecome the traditional methods of continuing education for post‐graduate geneticcounselors. While these forums address the need to stay updated on scientific orinformation‐based topics, there is little available to counselors to promote growth incounseling skills. A group of Boston‐based genetic counselors describe how their leader‐ledsupervision group has established a setting to meet the needs of its members both forsupport and continued counseling training. We outline here the evolution of this group andhow it has become a valued part of our professional lives. We feel that the model of leader‐ledpeer supervision holds great value in helping genetic counselors continue to enhancetheir interpersonal skills in a supportive, safe, and challenging environment. It is our hopethat others will elect to form similar groups in their own communities, thereby creating newopportunities for growth within the genetic counseling profession.
The “Circular” Problems of Calculating Risk: Dealing with Consanguinity
Authors: Spence M. Anne , Hodge Susan E.
Published: December 2002

An ongoing problem in the genetics clinic is the calculation of inbreeding coefficients and recurrence risks for complex pedigrees, particularly when multiple “loops” are present. Although the Human Genome Project promises information about more of our genes in the foreseeable future, the actual assignment of disease status to specific loci will continue at a slower pace, so that accurate risk calculations are needed. In the past few months several families with consanguinity were referred to us to confirm the calculations performed by the genetic counselor, and we became aware of some confusion in the field. We present here both (a) a clarification of definitions and concepts and (b) a review of how to perform the calculations, for several quantities (coefficient of relationship, coefficient of inbreeding, coefficient of kinship, and recurrence risk), in complex pedigrees. We discuss the availability of computer algorithms to assist in these calculations, and we encourage counselors to call on a reliable computer program for any but the simplest cases. At the same time, we reiterate our belief that computer algorithms do not relieve the counselor of the responsibility of knowing what to calculate and when.
Threat to Parental Role: A Possible Mechanism of Altered Self‐Concept Related to Carrier Knowledge
Authors: McConkie‐Rosell Allyn , DeVellis Brenda M.
Published: December 2002

Researchers and clinicians have suggested that learning one is a carrier for a genetic disorder has the potential to alter self‐concept. Concerns about self‐concept have influenced the development of policies regarding the availability of carrier testing for minors and the informed‐consent process. A literature review identified three mechanisms through which self‐concept has been proposed to be affected: altered perception of genetic identity, diminished social identity, and an altered perception of health. This paper presents a conceptual framework developed from identity theory and the “self's response to threat” to propose a fourth mechanism: threat to the parental role. Clarification of the role of self‐concept, the threat to self‐concept related to carrier knowledge, and coping behaviors activated in response to this threat would help to target appropriate genetic counseling interventions.
Who Is at Risk for Psychological Distress in Genetic Testing Programs for Hereditary Cancer Disorders?
Authors: Grosfeld Frans J. M. , Lips Cees J. M. , Beemer Frits A. , ten Kroode Herman F. J.
Published: December 2002

Presymptomatic identification of disease gene carriers is becoming an increasingly common part of the clinical management of hereditary cancer disorders. With an expected increase in the number of requests for DNA testing and the limited resources for counseling, the amount of time genetic counselors are able to spend with test candidates will decrease. It is therefore important for counselors to identify persons at risk for psychological distress. Based on a review of experiences with Huntington disease and cancer patients, we describe factors likely to evoke distress in genetic cancer candidates. We also discuss the sometimes widely different ways that test candidates and their partners respond to genetic testing. By exploring risk factors for distress in relevant domains of the research, we can offer counselors guidelines for determining who may need extra counseling.
Adolescent Health Care Needs and Relationship to Disease in Patients With Childhood‐Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: DeCoste Chelsea , Moaf Paris , Mohamed Ibrahim , Ng Lawrence , Ostojic‐Aitkens Dragana , Levy Deborah M. , Hiraki Linda T. , Toulany Alene , Knight Andrea
Published: January 2024

Objective

Our objective was to characterize adolescent health and psychosocial issues in patients with childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) and evaluate demographic and disease characteristics associated with adolescent health.

Methods

We retrospectively examined adolescents aged 12 to 18 years with cSLE seen at the Hospital for Sick Children meeting the American College of Rheumatology/Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics classification criteria, assessed by adolescent medicine in the cSLE clinic between 2018 and 2020. Adolescent health issues were characterized using the Home, Education/Employment, Activities, Diet/Drugs, Sexuality, Suicide/mood (HEADDSS) framework. Issues were classified as presenting and/or identified; adolescent health burden was tabulated as the number of distinct adolescent issues per patient. Multiple Poisson regression models examined associations between patient and disease characteristics (age, sex, material deprivation, disease activity, disease damage, and high‐dose glucocorticoid exposure) and adolescent health issues.

Results

A total of 108 (60%) of 181 adolescents with cSLE were seen by adolescent medicine, with a median of 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 1–3) visits and a median of 2 (IQR 1–5) adolescent health issues during the study period. Common issues were mood (presenting in 21% vs identified in 50%), sleep (27% vs 2%), school and education (26% vs 1%), and nonadherence (23% vs 8%). Psychoeducation was provided by adolescent medicine to 54% of patients. High‐dose glucocorticoids (risk ratio [RR] 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.41–2.35, P < 0.001), material deprivation (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04–1.30, P = 0.007), and lower SLE Disease Activity Index scores (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.92–0.98, P = 0.004) were associated with higher adolescent health burden.

Conclusion

Adolescents with cSLE experience many adolescent issues, especially low mood. High‐dose glucocorticoids and social marginalization are associated with greater adolescent health burden. This study highlights the importance of addressing adolescent health needs as part of routine care.
A Prospective Observational Study of Disease Severity and Mortality in Hispanic American Patients With Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Jandali Bochra , Lyons Marka , Charles Julio , Zhang Meng , Theodore Samuel , Pedroza Claudia , Mayes Maureen D. , Assassi Shervin
Published: January 2024

Objective

To characterize disease manifestations in Hispanic American patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) in comparison with non‐Hispanic White and Black patients.

Methods

Longitudinal clinical characteristics were collected prospectively in the Genetics versus Environment in Scleroderma Outcome Study cohort. All patients fulfilled the classification criteria for SSc and had a disease duration less than five years at enrollment.

Results

A cohort of 427 patients, consisting of 124 Hispanic, 220 non‐Hispanic White, and 83 non‐Hispanic Black participants were examined. At enrollment, Hispanic patients were significantly younger but had longer disease duration, higher frequency of U1‐RNP positivity as well as concurrent systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) diagnosis, and lower income and educational levels in comparison to non‐Hispanic White patients. Compared with non‐Hispanic Black patients, Hispanic patients had more frequently limited cutaneous involvement and anticentromere antibodies.

In the longitudinal analysis, Hispanic patients had significantly lower forced vital capacity percents predicted (point estimate, −9.3%; P < 0.001) than non‐Hispanic White but not Black patients. Hispanic patients had similar longitudinal modified Rodnan Skin Scores like non‐Hispanic White patients but lower measurements than non‐Hispanic Black patients (point estimate, −3.2; P = 0.029). Hispanic patients had significantly higher serially obtained perceived functional disability scores than White patients (point estimate, 0.29; P < 0.001). Hispanic patients also had higher mortality rates than White Americans even after adjustment for age, gender, and socioeconomic statuses.

Conclusion

Hispanic patients have higher likelihood of having U1‐RNP positivity and SLE overlap, more severe restrictive lung disease, as well as higher rate of mortality than non‐Hispanic White patients.
Oxygen‐Supplying Piezocatalytic Therapy of Hypoxic Tumors by Intratumoral Delivery of pH‐Responsive Multicompartmental Carriers with Sequential Drug Release Capability
Authors: Truong Hoang Quan , Kim Do Yeon , Park Hyun Su , Jang Wookyoung , Nguyen Cao Thuy Giang , Kang Ji Hee , Ko Young Tag , Mun Seok Joon , Bhang Suk Ho , Shim Min Suk , Bong Ki Wan
Published: January 2024

Piezocatalytic cancer therapy, in which piezoelectric nanomaterials generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) via piezocatalytic redox reactions under mechanical stress, has emerged as an effective strategy for cancer treatment. However, the inherent hypoxia in tumor microenvironments enormously restricts its efficacy. To address this issue, acid‐degradable Janus‐type multicompartmental carriers able to separately encapsulate piezocatalytic gold nanoparticle‐coated poly(ethylene glycol)‐modified zinc oxide nanorods (Au@P‐ZnO NRs) and O2‐generating catalase (CAT) are fabricated in this study using stop‐flow lithography (SFL). The CAT and Au@P‐ZnO NRs are sequentially released by modulating the composition ratios of acid‐cleavable monomers in the precursor solution during the SFL. The sequential release by the Janus carriers significantly increased the intracellular ROS levels under hypoxia conditions upon ultrasound irradiation owing to the O2 supplied by the CAT. An in vivo study showed that a single intratumoral injection of Janus particles encapsulating the CAT and Au@P‐ZnO NRs efficiently alleviated tumor hypoxia and substantially suppressed tumor growth. This study demonstrates that pH‐responsive, O2‐generating, and piezocatalytic Janus carriers have high potential for piezocatalytic therapy of hypoxic tumors and offers insights into using pH‐responsive Janus carriers for efficient hypoxia‐relieving piezocatalytic cancer therapy via the cascade of oxygenation and ROS generation.
Recent Advances in Nanomodulators for Augmenting Cancer Immunotherapy in Cold Tumors: Insights from Drug Delivery to Drug‐Free Strategies
Authors: Zhang Lingxiao , Zhu Chaojie , Zhao Jing , Scimeca Luca , Dong Mingdong , Liu Ruitian , Jia Yingbo , Xu Zhi Ping
Published: January 2024

Immunotherapy has significantly improved cancer treatment, yet the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) remains a substantial impediment to therapeutic efficacy. Nanomodulators have emerged as promising tools to address immunosuppressive factors within the TME, enhancing clinical interventions such as immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy while minimizing associated safety risks with immune modulators. In this review, recent advancements are spotlighted in TME‐targeted nanomodulators from drug delivery to drug‐free concepts. First, nanomodulators designed to synergize with various immunomodulatory agents, including gene tools (mRNA, siRNA, miRNA, plasmid DNA, and CRISPER system), cytokines, immune agonists, and inhibitors are analyzed. Subsequently, recently developed drug‐free nanomodulators designed to modulate the physicochemical and biological properties in the microenvironment of solid tumors are succinctly presented. Finally, integrative perspectives on the future development and challenges of nanomodulators in assisting cancer immunotherapy are offered as conclusions.
Multiscale Co‐Assembly to Meso‐Macroporous Foamed Single‐Crystal Metal–Organic Frameworks for the Supported Capture of Sulfur Dioxide
Authors: Kan Xun , Zhang Guanqing , Ma Jun , Liu Fengqing , Tang Yu , Liu Fujian , Yi Xianfeng , Liu Yuefeng , Zheng Anmin , Jiang Lilong , Xiao Feng‐Shou , Dai Sheng
Published: January 2024

The introduction of enlarged and interconnected nanochannels into metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) overcome their micropore size restriction, enhances mass transportation, and improves the accessibility of anchored metal clusters. Herein, foamed Ce‐MOF single crystals (F‐Ce‐MOF‐SC‐x) designed from a multiscale co‐assembly is reported in the presence of a copolymer template and 1,3,5‐trimethylbenzene as a structural regulator. The resultant F‐Ce‐MOF‐SC‐x possessed well‐defined microporous tandem‐ordered meso‐macroporous foams with superior connectivity and versatile Ce‐defective unsaturated sites (Ce‐DUS). F‐Ce‐MOF‐SC‐x is applied as a stable carrier for anchoring polytertiary amines (PA) via coordination interactions with Ce‐DUS. Owing to the superior ability of PA to recognize SO2, the resultant F‐Ce‐MOF‐SC‐x@yPA delivers exceptional performance in terms of the high‐temperature reversible adsorption and separation of SO2, including a remarkable capacity for SO2, spectacular selectivity for SO2/CO2/N2, an ultrafast adsorption equilibrium rate, and stability for 50 cycles. These characteristics are outstanding among those of MOFs and superior to those of many reported SO2 adsorbents.
3D Micro‐Flower Structured BiFeO3 Constructing High Energy Efficiency/Stability Potassium Ion Batteries Over Wide Temperature Range
Authors: Guo Jinlin , Wang Lu , Hu Aiguo , Zhang Jie , Xiao Zhubing
Published: January 2024

The fatty K+ ion calls for suitable host materials to meet the requirement for high safety and long‐term stability of potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) to rival lithium‐ion batteries, thus anode materials possessing high capacity, high stability, and well‐defined plateaus involving favorable working voltage (≈0.5 V) have always been desired. Here, a 3D BiFeO3 with micro‐flower structure (BFO‐MF) constructed by nanosheets is proposed as an anode for PIBs. Density functional theory calculations evidence that the intrinsically favorable affinity and diffusion for K+ ion render fast electrochemical kinetics and attenuated voltage‐hysteresis, and electrochemical measurements indicate that the stable 3D structure of BFO‐MF enables to achieve impressive performances including a high capacity of 606 mAh g−1, flat plateaus at ≈0.5 V, stable performances for 5000 cycles at 500 mA g−1, and 500 cycles at 100 mA g−1 upon −20 °C. In situ and ex situ characterizations definitely elucidate the conversion and alloy/dealloy mechanism. The satisfying features of BFO‐MF anode ensure full‐cells to achieve excellent cyclic performances, and a high energy efficiency retention rate of ≈98.2% for the cathode, with energy density/power density output up to 177.1 Wh kg−1/2152.8 W kg−1, respectively. This work can provide new insights for developing advanced anodes for PIBs.
How Biorecognition Affects the Electronic Properties of Reduced Graphene Oxide in Electrolyte‐Gated Transistor Immunosensors
Authors: Sensi Matteo , de Oliveira Rafael Furlan , Berto Marcello , Paradisi Alessandro , Greco Pierpaolo , Bortolotti Carlo Augusto , Samorì Paolo , Biscarini Fabio
Published: January 2024

Ambipolar electrolyte‐gated transistors (EGTs) based on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) have been demonstrated as ultra‐sensitive and highly specific immunosensors. However, the physics and chemistry ruling the device operation are still not fully unraveled. In this work, the aim is to elucidate the nature of the observed sensitivity of the device. Toward this aim, a physical–chemical model that, coupled with the experimental characterization of the rGO‐EGT, allows one to quantitatively correlate the biorecognition events at the gate electrode and the electronic properties of rGO‐EGT is proposed. The equilibrium of biorecognition occurring at the gate electrode is shown to determine the apparent charge neutrality point (CNP) of the rGO channel. The multiparametric analysis of the experimental transfer characteristics of rGO‐EGT reveals that the recognition events modulate the CNP voltage, the excess carrier density Δn, and the quantum capacitance of rGO. This analysis also explains why hole and electron carrier mobilities, interfacial capacitance, the curvature of the transfer curve, and the transconductances are insensitive to the target concentration. The understanding of the mechanisms underlying the transistor transduction of the biorecognition events is key for the interpretation of the response of the rGO‐EGT immunosensors and to guide the design of novel and more sensitive devices.
Increasing the Catalytic Activity of Co3O4 via Boron Doping and Chemical Reduction for Enhanced Acetone Detection
Authors: Zhao Liang , Yu Chengchao , Xin Congcong , Xing Yunpeng , Wei Zefeng , Zhang Hongda , Fei Teng , Liu Sen , Zhang Tong
Published: January 2024

Optimally increasing the catalytic activity of Co3O4‐based materials is crucial for promoting their practical applications for acetone detection; however, this still remains challenging. Herein, a strategy is proposed in this work to increase the catalytic activity of Co3O4 toward the oxidation of acetone through the synergistic effect of boron doping and chemical reduction, which can substantially improve the sensing performance for acetone detection. The characterization results confirm that the present strategy facilitates the formation of more oxygen vacancies and increases the content of Co2+ ions serving as active sites. As expected, the optimal sensor yields a higher response . To extend the practical application to the auxiliary diagnosis of diabetes through exhaled breath, the optimal sensors distinguished between acetone concentrations in the breath of healthy individuals and in the simulated breath of patients with diabetes. Detailed gas‐sensing measurements reveal that the enhanced acetone sensing performance is attributed to the increased catalytic activity of materials for oxidation of acetone by the Mars–van Krevelen, Langmuir–Hinshelwood, and Eley–Rideal mechanisms. This study provides new insights into the fabrication of high‐performance metal oxide‐based gas sensors by improving the catalytic activity of sensing materials.
Thermal‐Cyclized Polyacrylonitrile Artificial Protective Layers Toward Stable Zinc Anodes for Aqueous Zinc‐Based Batteries
Authors: Yang Jinzhang , Wang Shuai , Du Lingyu , Bi Songshan , Zhu Jiacai , Liu Lili , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: January 2024

Aqueous Zn‐based batteries (AZBs) have appealed numerous attentions in the energy storage field due to their low cost, environmental friendliness and high safety. However, the Zn metal anode faces severe challenges of short cycle life because of the dendrite growth and side reactions, which hinders the practical application of AZBs. Herein, an artificial coating layer of cyclized polyacrylonitrile (cPAN) is designed on the Zn anode through spin‐coating and thermal treatment. The cPAN layer possesses abundant N‐containing groups and delocalized π‐conjugation structure, which endows the Zn anode with low nucleation barrier and homogeneous electric field. Benefiting from these synergetic advantages, the nucleation overpotential of Zn is remarkably decreased. Furthermore, no obvious byproduct is observed on the cPANZ‐Zn after cycling. As a result, the resultant cPANZ‐Zn anode delivers a long lifespan of 600 h and high reversibility. cPANZ‐Zn||MnO2 full cells are further assembled and exhibited stable cycling and high rate capability.
Insights into the Heterogeneous Nuclei of an Ultrafast‐Crystallizing Glassy Solid
Authors: Chen Bin , Li Junhua , Wang Xu , Shi Mengchao , Sun Tulai , Xia Mengjiao , Ding Keyuan , Liu Jie , Li Jixue , Tian He , Rao Feng
Published: January 2024

Crystallization determines the programming speed of phase‐change memory devices; while, the nucleation phenomenon of many phase‐change materials (PCMs) is not entirely understood, especially concerning the atomic structures and dynamic behaviors of the subcritical nuclei. This is undoubtedly an insurmountable challenge for scandium antimony telluride (ScxSb2Te3) PCM as its subnanosecond‐crystallization nature impedes the real‐time observation of the transient nucleation process. To solve the puzzle, atomic probe tomography and transmission electron microscopy are employed to circumvent the technical difficulties; for the first time, the atomistic information of the heterogeneous nuclei in ScxSb2Te3 is unveiled, such as enriched Sc ≈ 25 at% in core composition, ≈1.0 nm in geometric size, and ≈1023–1024 m−3 in spatial density. The unique nanoscale chemical inhomogeneity ensures the unusual stabilities and dynamics of the early‐stage nuclei, reinforcing them to survive the melt‐quenching action and greatly suppressing the nucleating randomness, thereby facilitating simultaneous and prompt crystal growth throughout the amorphous phase to achieve ultrafast crystallization. The present study offers a new insight into the nonclassical pathways, which will improve understanding and promote better regulation of the nucleation phenomenon in functional materials.
Rescuing Nucleus Pulposus Cells from ROS Toxic Microenvironment via Mitochondria‐Targeted Carbon Dot‐Supported Prussian Blue to Alleviate Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Shi Yu , Bu Wenzhen , Chu Dongchuan , Lin Wenzheng , Li Ke , Huang Xueping , Wang Xinglong , Wu Yin , Wu Shang , Li Dandan , Xu Zhuobin , Cao Zhipeng , Chen Hao , Wang Huihui
Published: January 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is invariably accompanied by excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in progressive deterioration of mitochondrial function and senescence in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). Significantly, the main ROS production site in non‐immune cells is mitochondria, suggesting mitochondria is a feasible therapeutic target to reverse IVDD. Triphenylphosphine (TPP), which is known as mitochondrial‐tropic ligands, is utilized to modify carbon dot‐supported Prussian blue (CD‐PB) to scavenge superfluous intro‐cellular ROS and maintain NPCs at normal redox levels. CD‐PB‐TPP can effectively escape from lysosomal phagocytosis, permitting efficient mitochondrial targeting. After strikingly lessening the ROS in mitochondria via exerting antioxidant enzyme‐like activities, such as superoxide dismutase, and catalase, CD‐PB‐TPP rescues damaged mitochondrial function and NPCs from senescence, catabolism, and inflammatory reaction in vitro. Imaging evaluation and tissue morphology assessment in vivo suggest that disc height index, mean grey values of nucleus pulposus tissue, and histological morphology are significantly improved in the IVDD model after CD‐PB‐TPP is locally performed. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that ROS‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction and senescence of NPCs leads to IVDD and the CD‐PB‐TPP possesses enormous potential to rescue this pathological process through efficient removal of ROS via targeting mitochondria, supplying a neoteric strategy for IVDD treatment.
Adeno‐Associated Virus‐Encapsulated Alginate Microspheres Loaded in Collagen Gel Carriers for Localized Gene Transfer
Authors: Kurashina Yuta , Kurihara Sho , Kubota Takeshi , Takatsuka Shuhei , Hirabayashi Motoki , Shimmura Hajime , Miyahara Hideo , Hioki Aiki , Matsushita Yutaka , Muramatsu Jumpei , Ogawa Yuki , Fujioka Masato , Okano Hirotaka J. , Onoe Hiroaki
Published: January 2024

This work reports localized in vivo gene transfer by biodegradation of the adeno‐associated virus‐encapsulating alginate microspheres (AAV‐AMs) loaded in collagen gel carriers. AAV‐AMs are centrifugally synthesized by ejecting a mixed pre‐gel solution of alginate and AAV to CaCl2 solution to form an ionically cross‐linked hydrogel microsphere immediately. The AAV‐AMs are able to preserve the AAV without diffusing out even after spreading them on the cells, and the AAV is released and transfected by the degradation of the alginate microsphere. In addition, AAV‐AMs can be stored by cryopreservation until use. By implanting this highly convenient AAV‐encapsulated hydrogel, AAV‐AMs can be loaded into collagen gel carriers to fix the position of the implanted AAV‐AMs and achieve localized gene transfer in vivo. In vivo experiments show that the AAV‐AMs loaded in collagen gel carriers are demonstrated to release the encapsulated AAV for gene transfer in the buttocks muscles of mice. While conventional injections caused gene transfer to the entire surrounding tissue, the biodegradation of AAV‐AMs shows that gene transfer is achieved locally to the muscles. This means that the proposed AAV‐loaded system is shown to be a superior method for selective gene transfer.
Advancing Mycotoxin Detection in Food and Feed: Novel Insights from Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)
Authors: Logan Natasha , Cao Cuong , Freitag Stephan , Haughey Simon A. , Krska Rudolf , Elliott Christopher T.
Published: January 2024

The implementation of low‐cost and rapid technologies for the on‐site detection of mycotoxin‐contaminated crops is a promising solution to address the growing concerns of the agri‐food industry. Recently, there have been significant developments in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) for the direct detection of mycotoxins in food and feed. This review provides an overview of the most recent advancements in the utilization of SERS through the successful fabrication of novel nanostructured materials. Various bottom‐up and top‐down approaches have demonstrated their potential in improving sensitivity, while many applications exploit the immobilization of recognition elements and molecular imprinted polymers (MIPs) to enhance specificity and reproducibility in complex matrices. Therefore, the design and fabrication of nanomaterials is of utmost importance and are presented herein. This paper uncovers that limited studies establish detection limits or conduct validation using naturally contaminated samples. One decade on, SERS is still lacking significant progress and there is a disconnect between the technology, the European regulatory limits, and the intended end‐user. Ongoing challenges and potential solutions are discussed including nanofabrication, molecular binders, and data analytics. Recommendations to assay design, portability, and substrate stability are made to help improve the potential and feasibility of SERS for future on‐site agri‐food applications.
High‐Surface Area Mesoporous Sc2O3 with Abundant Oxygen Vacancies as New and Advanced Electrocatalyst for Electrochemical Biomass Valorization
Authors: Wu Yufeng , Ma Liyao , Wu Junxiu , Song Minwei , Wang Changlong , Lu Jun
Published: January 2024

Scandium oxide (Sc2O3) is considered as omnipotent “Industrial Ajinomoto” and holds promise in catalytic applications. However, rarely little attention is paid to its electrochemistry. Here, the first nanocasting design of high‐surface area Sc2O3 with abundant oxygen vacancies (mesoporous VO‐Sc2O3) for efficient electrochemical biomass valorization is reported. In the case of the electro‐oxidation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), quantitative HMF conversion, high yield, and high faradic efficiency of FDCA via the hydroxymethylfurancarboxylic acid pathway are achieved by this advanced electrocatalyst. The beneficial effect of the VO on the electrocatalytic performance of the mesoporous VO‐Sc2O3 is revealed by the enhanced adsorption of reactants and the reduced energy barrier in the electrochemical process. The concerted design, in situ and ex situ experimental studies and theoretical calculations shown in this work should shed light on the rational elaboration of advanced electrocatalysts, and contribute to the establishment of a circular carbon economy since the bio‐plastic monomer and green hydrogen are efficiently synthesized.
Prodrug Celecoxib‐Derived Nanoparticles Potentiate the Efficacy of Cancer Immunotherapy by Remodeling the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Kim Tae Woo , Whang Chang‐Hee , Kim Dohyeon , Jon Sangyong
Published: January 2024

Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) play crucial roles in promoting tumor growth and facilitating immune evasion within the tumor microenvironment (TME)—functions that limit responses to immunotherapy. Recent research has highlighted the potential of celecoxib (CXB), a potent COX‐2 selective inhibitor, for enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy by blocking the COX‐2/PGE2 axis. However, the clinical application of CXB for cancer treatment is still hindered by its systemic adverse effects and lack of tumor‐targeting. Here, to address these limitations, PEGylated prodrug CXB‐derived nanoparticles (CXB‐NPs) are developed, a nanomedicine designed to improve the tumor delivery of CXB while minimizing its adverse side effects. CXB‐NPs demonstrate enhanced tumor accumulation and effectively inhibit tumor growth by improving the immunosuppressive TME in immunocompetent mice, surpassing the performance of parental CXB. Furthermore, when combined with anti‐PD‐1 antibody (αPD‐1) immunotherapy, CXB‐NPs exhibit superior suppression of CT26 tumor growth compared with αPD‐1 monotherapy. This combination approach reduces the infiltration of immunosuppressive immune cells while promoting the infiltration and cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells. The findings indicate that CXB‐NPs capable of remodeling the TME provide a new combination therapy strategy for potentiating antitumor efficacy.
Salt Effect Engineering Single Fe‐N2P2‐Cl Sites on Interlinked Porous Carbon Nanosheets for Superior Oxygen Reduction Reaction and Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Tan Xiaojie , Zhang Jinqiang , Cao Fengliang , Liu Yachao , Yang Hao , Zhou Qiang , Li Xudong , Wang Rui , Li Zhongtao , Hu Han , Zhao Qingshan , Wu Mingbo
Published: January 2024

Developing efficient metal‐nitrogen‐carbon (M‐N‐C) single‐atom catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is significant for the widespread implementation of Zn‐air batteries, while the synergic design of the matrix microstructure and coordination environment of metal centers remains challenges. Herein, a novel salt effect‐induced strategy is proposed to engineer N and P coordinated atomically dispersed Fe atoms with extra‐axial Cl on interlinked porous carbon nanosheets, achieving a superior single‐atom Fe catalyst (denoted as Fe‐NP‐Cl‐C) for ORR and Zn‐air batteries. The hierarchical porous nanosheet architecture can provide rapid mass/electron transfer channels and facilitate the exposure of active sites. Experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal the distinctive Fe‐N2P2‐Cl active sites afford significantly reduced energy barriers and promoted reaction kinetics for ORR. Consequently, the Fe‐NP‐Cl‐C catalyst exhibits distinguished ORR performance with a half‐wave potential (E1/2) of 0.92 V and excellent stability. Remarkably, the assembled Zn‐air battery based on Fe‐NP‐Cl‐C delivers an extremely high peak power density of 260 mW cm−2 and a large specific capacity of 812 mA h g−1, outperforming the commercial Pt/C and most reported congeneric catalysts. This study offers a new perspective on structural optimization and coordination engineering of single‐atom catalysts for efficient oxygen electrocatalysis and energy conversion devices.
KxVPO4F (x∼0): A New High‐Voltage and Low‐Stain Cathode Material for Ultrastable Calcium Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Li Renjie , Lee Youngsu , Lin Huijun , Che Xiangli , Pu Xiangjun , Yi Yuyang , Chen Feiyang , Yu Jingya , Chan Kang Cheung , Park Kyu‐Young , Xu Zheng‐Long
Published: January 2024

The utilization of high‐voltage intercalation cathodes in calcium‐ion batteries (CIBs) is impeded by the substantial size and divalent character of Ca2+ ions, which result in pronounced volume alterations and sluggish ion mobility, consequently causing inferior reversibility and low energy/power densities. To tackle these issues, polyanionic K‐vacant KxVPO4F (x∼0, designated as K0VPF) is proposed as high‐voltage and ultra‐stable cathode material in CIBs. The K0VPF demonstrates a decent calcium storage capacity of 75 mAh g−1 at 10 mA g−1 and remarkable capacity retention of 84.2% over 1000 cycles. The average working voltage of the K0VPF is 3.85 V versus Ca2+/Ca, representing the highest value reported for CIB cathodes to date. The combined experimental and theoretical investigations revealed that the low volume changes and hopping diffusion barriers contribute to the extraordinary stability and high‐power capabilities, respectively, of K0VPF. The distribution of Ca ions into polyanionic frameworks with pronounced spatial separation effectively attenuates the Ca2+–Ca2+ repulsive force and thus augmenting the Ca migration kinetics. The high voltage of K0VPF is attributed to the inductive effect from the largely electronegative fluorine. In conjunction with a calcium metal anode and a compatible electrolyte, Ca metal full cells featured a record‐high energy density of ≈300 Wh kg−1.
Solid Polymer Electrolytes with Enhanced Electrochemical Stability for High‐Capacity Aluminum Batteries
Authors: Leung Oi Man , Gordon Leo W. , Messinger Robert J. , Prodromakis Themis , Wharton Julian A. , Ponce de León Carlos , Schoetz Theresa
Published: January 2024

Chloroaluminate ionic liquids are commonly used electrolytes in rechargeable aluminum batteries due to their ability to reversibly electrodeposit aluminum at room temperature. Progress in aluminum batteries is currently hindered by the limited electrochemical stability, corrosivity, and moisture sensitivity of these ionic liquids. Here, a solid polymer electrolyte based on 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride‐aluminum chloride, polyethylene oxide, and fumed silica is developed, exhibiting increased electrochemical stability over the ionic liquid while maintaining a high ionic conductivity of ≈13 mS cm−1. In aluminum–graphite cells, the solid polymer electrolytes enable charging to 2.8 V, achieving a maximum specific capacity of 194 mA h g−1 at 66 mA g−1. Long‐term cycling at 2.7 V showed a reversible capacity of 123 mA h g−1 at 360 mA g−1 and 98.4% coulombic efficiency after 1000 cycles. Solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy measurements reveal the formation of five‐coordinate aluminum species that crosslink the polymer network to enable a high ionic liquid loading in the solid electrolyte. This study provides new insights into the molecular‐level design and understanding of polymer electrolytes for high‐capacity aluminum batteries with extended potential limits.
Progress on Bifunctional Carbon‐Based Electrocatalysts for Rechargeable Zinc–Air Batteries Based on Voltage Difference Performance
Authors: Song Yijian , Li Weijie , Zhang Kai , Han Chao , Pan Anqiang
Published: January 2024

Zinc–air batteries (ZABs) hold potential as clean, cost‐effective, and sustainable energy storage system for the next generation. However, the application of ZABs remains challenging because of their poor rechargeability and low efficiency . The design of efficient bifunctional catalysts toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) during discharging and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) during charging is essential to developing rechargeable ZABs. Transition metal (TM)‐doped carbon (TM‐C) materials stand out from all the available bifunctional catalysts due to the excellent specific surface area, diverse morphological structures , and the multiple metal active sites formed after TM doping. This paper, therefore, focuses on the synthesis, electrochemical properties, and potential mechanism of TM‐C catalysts. To make a novelty and logical statement, the voltage difference (ΔE = Ei = 10 − E1/2) between the ORR/OER catalytic process is employed to categorize different TM‐C catalysts reported in recent years, which are divided into two groups: I (ΔE = 0.7 − 0.9 V) and II (ΔE = 0.5 − 0.7 V). The catalytic mechanisms of bifunctional catalysts are clarified. More ways and ideas for synthesizing high‐performance bifunctional TM‐C catalysts are also provided. Finally, the current problem and prospects of this group materials are presented.
Shoreline slope influences movements of larval lampreys over dewatered substrate
Authors: Liedtke Theresa L. , Harris Julianne E. , Gray Ann E.
Published: January 2024

Larval lampreys are filter feeders that live for several years burrowed in fine sediments in freshwater streams. Stream side channels and edges, where larval lampreys gather, are vulnerable to natural and human‐caused dewatering. Water level reductions can strand and kill thousands of larval lampreys, in part because many remain burrowed until their habitats are exposed, at which point larvae must emerge and attempt to move over dewatered substrate to locate wetted habitat. Dewatering for restoration efforts or seasonal closures of irrigation canals can be done slowly to reduce lamprey strandings, but in some settings, mechanisms are lacking to control the dewatering rate. Phased dewatering, where water level is reduced in stages separated by periods of static water level, could provide options when dewatering rate cannot be tightly controlled. To guide this phased approach, information is needed on the movement capability of larval lampreys. We examined larval lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus and Lampetra spp.) movement distance and rate over dewatered substrate at shoreline slopes of 1%, 5%, 10% and 20% in a laboratory setting and modelled results using gamma regression models. Model results suggest both movement distance and movement rate increased with increasing slope and increasing larval length. We used the models to predict minimum distances and rates that 90%, 75% and 50% of medium‐sized (75 mm) lampreys would move over dewatered substrates on slopes of 1%–20%. The models predicted that 50% of larvae could move distances of ≥31 cm at rates of ≥0.7 mm/s on a 1% slope and distances of ≥502 cm at rates of ≥8.6 mm/s on a 20% slope. We present an example scenario of how information on larval movement capabilities and shoreline slope could guide phased dewatering events to limit impacts to lampreys.
Control over the aggregated structure of donor–acceptor conjugated polymer films for high‐mobility organic field‐effect transistors
Authors: Cao Xinxiu , Han Yanchun
Published: January 2024

Donor–acceptor (D‐A) conjugated polymers have demonstrated great potential in organic field‐effect transistors application, and their aggregated structure is a crucial factor for high charge mobility. However, the aggregated structure of D‐A conjugated polymer films is complex and the structure–property relationship is difficult to understand. This review provides an overview of recent progress in controlling the aggregated structure of D‐A conjugated polymer films for higher mobility, including the mechanisms, methods, and properties. We first discuss the multilevel microstructures of D‐A conjugated polymer films, and then summarize the current understanding of the relationship between film microstructures and charge transport properties. Subsequently, we review the theory of D‐A conjugated polymer crystallization. After that, we summarize the common methods to control the aggregated structure of semi‐crystalline and near‐amorphous D‐A conjugated polymer films, such as crystallites and aggregates, tie chains, film alignment, and attempt to understand them from the basic theory of polymer crystallization. Finally, we provide the current challenges in controlling the aggregated structure of D‐A conjugated polymer films and in understanding the structure–property relationship.
Multi‐Functional Formaldehyde‐Nitrate Batteries for Wastewater Refining, Electricity Generation, and Production of Ammonia and Formate
Authors: An Siying , Zhao Zhi‐Hao , Bu Jun , He Jiaxin , Ma Wenxiu , Lin Jin , Bai Rui , Shang Li , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2024

As bulky pollutants in industrial and agricultural wastewater, nitrate and formaldehyde pose serious threats to the human health and ecosystem. Current purification technologies including chemical and bio‐/photo‐/electro‐chemical methods, are generally high‐cost, time‐consuming, or energy‐intensive. Here, we report a novel formaldehyde‐nitrate battery by pairing anodic formaldehyde oxidation with cathodic nitrate reduction, which simultaneously enables wastewater purification, electricity generation, and the production of high‐value‐added ammonia and formate. As a result, the formaldehyde‐nitrate battery remarkably exhibits an open‐circuit voltage of 0.75 V, a peak power density of 3.38 mW cm−2 and the yield rates of 32.7 mg h−1 cm−2 for ammonia and 889.4 mg h−1 cm−2 for formate. In a large‐scale formaldehyde‐nitrate battery (25 cm2), 99.9 % of nitrate and 99.8 % of formaldehyde are removed from simulated industrial wastewater and the electricity of 2.03 W⋅h per day is generated. Moreover, the design of such a multi‐functional battery is universally applicable to the coupling of NO3− or NO2− reduction with various aldehyde oxidization, paving a new avenue for wastewater purification and chemical manufacturing.