bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcranial direct current stimulation over the right DLPFC selectively modulates subprocesses in working memory
Authors: Wang Jiarui , Tian Jinhua , Hao Renning , Tian Lili , Liu Qiang
Published: May 2018

Background

Working memory, as a complex system, consists of two independent components: manipulation and maintenance process, which are defined as executive control and storage process. Previous studies mainly focused on the overall effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on working memory. However, little has been known about the segregative effects of tDCS on the sub-processes within working memory.

Method

Transcranial direct current stimulation, as one of the non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, is being widely used to modulate the cortical activation of local brain areas. This study modified a spatial n-back experiment with anodal and cathodal tDCS exertion on the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), aiming to investigate the effects of tDCS on the two sub-processes of working memory: manipulation (updating) and maintenance. Meanwhile, considering the separability of tDCS effects, we further reconfirmed the causal relationship between the right DLPFC and the sub-processes of working memory with different tDCS conditions.

Results

The present study showed that cathodal tDCS on the right DLPFC selectively improved the performance of the modified 2-back task in the difficult condition, whereas anodal tDCS significantly reduced the performance of subjects and showed an speeding-up tendency of response time. More precisely, the results of discriminability index and criterion showed that only cathodal tDCS enhanced the performance of maintenance in the difficult condition. Neither of the two tDCS conditions affected the performance of manipulation (updating).

Conclusion

These findings provide evidence that cathodal tDCS of the right DLPFC selectively affects maintenance capacity. Besides, cathodal tDCS also serves as an interference suppressor to reduce the irrelevant interference, thereby indirectly improving the working memory capacity. Moreover, the right DLPFC is not the unique brain regions for working memory manipulation (updating).
Resurrection and typification ofElatine campylosperma(Elatinaceae), a long-forgotten waterwort species
Authors: Takács Attila , Molnár V. Attila , Lukács Balázs A. , Nagy Timea , Lovas-Kiss Ádám , Green Andy J. , Popiela Agnieszka , Somlyay Lajos
Published: May 2018

The nameElatine campylospermaSeub. is generally treated as one of the synonyms ofE. macropodaGuss. However, recent morphological, phylogenetic and karyological studies indicate that this judgement should be revised. In the present paper we typify the nameE. campylosperma, review its taxonomic history and provide a thorough description, with compilation of previously published data and our new measurements fromin vitrocultures. Based on our herbarium survey, we outline its Atlantic-Mediterranean distribution area (Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey and Algeria). Habitat preferences are summarized from our field observations, water quality measurements and the label information of the herbarium specimens examined. IntactE. campylospermaseeds were found in faecal samples of the Eurasian Coot (Fulica atraL.) in southern Spain and two of them were germinated, suggesting thatE. campylospermahas a capacity for long distance dispersal via endozoochory.
The relationship between body mass index and pain, disease activity, depression and anxiety in women with fibromyalgia
Authors: Koçyiğit Burhan Fatih , Okyay Ramazan Azim
Published: May 2018

Background

Obesity is a possible factor which affects severity of symptoms and disease activity in fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). The aim of our study was to determine the association between body mass index (BMI) and pain, tender point count (TPC), disease activity, anxiety and depression in patients with FMS.

Methods

This was a descriptive study. A total of 124 female FMS patients between 18 and 55 years of age were enrolled. FMS patients were evaluated with visual analog scale (VAS), fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ), Hamilton anxiety scale (HAM-A) and Hamilton depression scale (HAM-D). Patients were divided into three groups according to BMI levels: normal weight, overweight and obese. Normal weight was defined as BMI 18.5–24.9, overweight as BMI 25.0–29.9 and obesity as BMI ≥ 30. We assessed the BMI status and its association with symptom severity in patients with FMS.

Results

Significant differences were detected in VAS, TPC, FIQ and HAM-D among the groups (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the groups in HAM-A (p = 0.328). The highest scores were found in the obese group. Significant positive correlations were determined between BMI levels and VAS, TPC, FIQ and HAM-D (r = 0.277, p = 0.002; r = 0.384, p < 0.001; r = 0.292, p = 0.001; r = 0.357, p < 0.001).

Discussion

Obese female FMS patients had higher levels of pain, TPC, disease activity and depression. BMI was significantly and positively correlated with clinical manifestations of FMS. Therefore, FMS treatment programs should include weight loss strategies.
Governança do Turismo no Campo das Vertentes (MG): garantia de desenvolvimento regional?
Authors: Santos Thiago de Sousa , Pereira Raquel da Silva
Published: May 2018

O objetivo deste estudo é verificar o papel e a articulação dos órgãos de governança nas ações de turismo desenvolvidas na região Campo das Vertentes, em Minas Gerais. Para tanto, foram investigados os municípios de Prados, São João Del Rei e Tiradentes, pertencentes ao Circuito Turístico Trilha dos Inconfidentes. Como base teórica foram considerados os dez elementos de governança propostos por Bovaird e Löffler (2003). A de natureza qualitativa foi do tipo exploratória. Utilizou-se pesquisa documental, além da realização de 12 entrevistas em profundidade. Os resultados a existência de um nível bastante avançado de governança no desenvolvimento da região, mesmo havendo discrepâncias de níveis de governança entre os municípios analisados. Constatou-se que o Circuito Turístico Trilha dos Inconfidentes, responsável por estabelecer um canal direto com o poder público na esfera estadual e federal em prol de necessidades da região, possui relevante poder e influência sobre as ações, projetos e programas realizados.
МОНИТОРИНГ СООТВЕТСТВИЯ ПРОФЕССИОНАЛЬНОГО ОБРАЗОВАНИЯ ПОТРЕБНОСТЯМ РЫНКА ТРУДА, "Общественные науки и современность"
Authors: ВАЛЕНТЕЙ Сергей Дмитриевич , ЗРЕЛОВ Петр Валентинович , КОРЕНЬКОВ Владимир Васильевич , БЕЛОВ Сергей Дмитриевич , КАДОЧНИКОВ Иван Сергеевич
Published: May 2018

В последние годы активно обсуждаются перспективы “цифровизации” экономических процессов. Это предельно сложная задача, не имеющая решения в рамках традиционных методов. Перспективы их качественного развития в статье проиллюстрированы на примере использования аналитики Больших данных и интеллектуального анализа текстов для оценки потребностей региональных рынков труда в рабочей силе. Задача решена с использованием разработанной авторами автоматизированной информационной системы мониторинга соответствия кадровых потребностей работодателей уровню подготовки специалистов. Информационной базой для сбора информации служили открытые источники. Представляемая система формирует дополнительные возможности для выявления качественных и количественных связей между сферой образования и рынком труда. Она ориентирована на широкий круг пользователей: органы власти и управления регионов и муниципалитетов; руководство университетов, компаний, кадровых агентств; выпускников и абитуриентов ВУЗов.
Assessment IS learning: developing a student‐centred approach for assessment in Higher Education
Authors: Rutherford Stephen , Pritchard Connie , Francis Nigel
Published: November 2024

Assessment and the associated feedback from those assessments are powerful factors in the development of students' learning. We have seen a shift within the Higher Education sector to conceptualise assessment as being more than summative assessment ‘of’ learning. Instead, there has been a greater emphasis on assessment ‘as’ learning, or assessment ‘for’ learning, through the enhanced use of formative assessments. Centralising assessment within the learning process highlights that assessment IS learning and cannot be separated from other elements of the learning process. In particular, assessment has a vital role to play in the development of students' self‐regulated learning skills and the development of independence in learners. However, for assessments to effectively support learning, they need to be meaningful, engaging, well‐integrated into the learning activities and ‘student‐focused’. Placing student skills development and personal development at the centre of assessment design has the potential to empower students through assessment. This review focuses on the potential of assessment to support student learning and development, using the ‘Equity, Agency, Transparency’ (‘EAT’) framework as a lens for effective assessment and feedback practices. We suggest ways in which we can make our assessment and feedback practices more inclusive, meaningful and authentic to the students' learning needs.
Recovery schools move to adapt to higher‐need student cohort
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2024

Academically focused recovery high schools for youths with substance use disorders aren't considered treatment programs and usually aren't affiliated with treatment centers, but several recent trends have forced some of these programs to include more treatment‐like components. Chief among these developments, according to the executive director of one of the nation's oldest recovery high schools, is the relative absence of adolescent treatment services in most communities, meaning that youths often arrive to these academic settings with limited skills for recovery.
So many questions!
Authors: Kent Rob
Published: November 2024

Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that preliminary overdose death numbers in the U.S. have decreased over the last 12‐month period. That is great news!
ABA stresses importance of participation in SUDs
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2024

The Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health Interest Group of the American Bar Association's Health Law Section fosters attorney and public participation in innovative programs in health care, alternative medicine, education, family dynamics, business and in the criminal justice system to address these conditions. It promotes practices that support prevention, education, treatment, recovery and management of substance use disorders and mental health conditions, including the removal of legal barriers to successful addiction and mental health recovery; and access to and delivery of health care services at the state and federal levels.
Heterogeneous Integration of High Endurance Ferroelectric and Piezoelectric Epitaxial BaTiO3 Devices on Si
Authors: Haque Asraful , D'Souza Harshal Jason , Parate Shubham Kumar , Sandilya Rama Satya , Raghavan Srinivasan , Nukala Pavan
Published: November 2024

Integrating epitaxial BaTiO3 (BTO) with Si is essential for leveraging its ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and nonlinear optical properties in microelectronics. Recently, heterogeneous integration approaches that involve growth of BTO on ideal substrates followed by transfer to a desired substrate show promise of achieving excellent device‐quality films. However, beyond simple demonstrations of the existence of ferroelectricity, robust devices with high endurance are not yet demonstrated on Si using the latter approach. Here, using a novel two‐step approach to synthesize epitaxial BTO using pulsed laser deposition on water‐soluble Sr3Al2O6 (on SrTiO3 substrates), successful integration of high‐quality BTO capacitors on Si is demonstrated, with remanent polarisation Pr = 7 µC cm−2, coercive field Ec = 150 kV cm−1, ferroelectric and electromechanical endurance of > 106 cycles. The study further addresses the challenge of cracking and disintegration of thicker films by first transferring a large area (5 mm x 5 mm) of the templated layer of BTO (≈30 nm thick) on the desired substrate, followed by the growth of high‐quality BTO on this substrate, as revealed by high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (HRXRD) and high‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (HRSTEM) measurements. These templated Si substrates offer a versatile platform for integrating any epitaxial complex oxides with diverse functionalities onto any inorganic substrate.
Optimizing Photosensitizers with Type I and Type II ROS Generation Through Modulating Triplet Lifetime and Intersystem Crossing Efficiency
Authors: Yue Yifan , Li Bowen , Wang Dandan , Wu Chongzhi , Li Zhiyao , Liu Bin
Published: November 2024

Organic photosensitizers (PSs) can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) via electron transfer (type I) and energy transfer (type II) pathways during photodynamic therapy (PDT). However, although numerous organic PSs have been constructed, the methods to optimize both type I and type II ROS generation are still not well explored. In this work, molecular engineering is applied to design three new organic PSs with varying triplet lifetimes and intersystem crossing (ISC) efficiency to achieve highly efficient type I&II ROS generation. The results reveal that after coated into nanoparticles (NPs) with DSPE‐PEG2000‐Biotin, the PS of mBDP‐PyH with the longest triplet lifetime and moderate ISC efficiency possesses good type II ROS and moderate type I ROS generation. With other properties being similar, the PS of mBDP‐2Py exhibits a shorter triplet lifetime, accompanied by concurrently reduced ROS generation for both types inside NPs. In contrast, the most potent PS of mBDP‐PyBr exhibits the shortest triplet lifetime but highly efficient ISC, with its NPs showing superior type I&II ROS generation. Moreover, both in vitro and in vivo experiments indicate that mBDP‐PyBr NPs display outstanding light toxicity under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Overall, this study provides valuable guidance in designing effective organic PSs for PDT.
Photochemical Patterning and Characterization of Mechanical Properties on Soft Materials
Authors: Park Jun H. , Grimes Patrick J. , Symons Henry E. , Braidotti Nicoletta , Rochat Sebastien , Workentin Mark S. , Gobbo Pierangelo
Published: November 2024

Although different chemistries for the spatio‐temporal localization of molecules and gradients of chemical signals within soft materials are now available, the achievement of spatio‐temporal patterns of mechanical properties in such materials and their characterization remain considerable challenges. This study presents the syntheses of two novel photo‐sensitive and thermoresponsive hydrogel systems, a photo‐stiffening and a photo‐softening hydrogel. Their potential for fabricating soft materials with patterned mechanical properties is then demonstrated by fabricating an actuator whose higher‐order bending properties can be switched on with light, and by encoding mechanical properties for digital information encryption and storage. Microindentation and a custom‐made data analysis software are essential for the characterization of all the materials. From a general perspective, this work opens a route to the fabrication of soft materials with patterned mechanical properties, addressing an important emerging challenge in soft materials science with applications in soft robotics and information encryption and storage.
Fluorocarbon‐Functionalized Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly Nanoparticles Alleviate Hypoxia to Enhance Sonodynamic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Xu Zhikang , Zhang Xuanxuan , Shan Qianyun , Zhu Wei , Jiang Shangxu , Li Rumei , Wu Xiaojin , Huo Meng , Ying Bin , Chen Chen , Chen Xiaoting , Zhang Kai , Chen Weiyu , Chen Jian
Published: November 2024

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is an ultrasound‐based, noninvasive cancer treatment that targets tumor cells by triggering reactive oxygen species production. However, the limited accumulation of sonosensitizers and the insufficient supply of O2 to the hypoxic environment at the tumor site greatly limit the effectiveness of SDT. To address these issues, positively charged porphyrin‐containing nanoparticles (NPs) from self‐assembling of fluorocarbon/polyethylene glycol amphiphilic block copolymer, which is synthesized through reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization, are constructed. The NPs with fluorocarbon core and positively charged hydrophilic shells not only stabilize the sonosensitizer and improve its cellular uptake, but also act as an O2 carrier alleviating the hypoxic tumor environment. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that the NPs effectively deliver O2 to the tumor and supply sufficient O2 to Renca cells after ultrasound treatment. Consequently, the NPs inhibit hypoxia‐induced resistance to SDT and significantly produce reactive oxygen species by activated porphyrin moieties, inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. These oxygen‐enhanced sonosensitizer NPs hold promise for cancer therapies such as photodynamic therapy, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy by overcoming hypoxia‐induced resistance.
Vacancies Engineering in Molybdenum Boride MBene Nanosheets to Activate Room‐Temperature Ferromagnetism
Authors: Zhang Liangzhu , Xing Shucheng , He Tian , Wu Wei‐Bin , Zhang An‐lei , Guo Zhoubin , Das Pratteek , Zheng Shuanghao , Ge Jun‐Yi , Feng Xinliang , Sun Zhimei , Wu Zhong‐Shuai
Published: November 2024

The rapid development of low energy dissipation spintronic devices has stimulated the search for air‐stable 2D nanomaterials possessing room‐temperature ferromagnetism. Here the experimental realization of 2D Mo4/3B2 nanosheets is reported with intrinsic room‐temperature ferromagnetic characteristics by vacancy engineering. These nanosheets are synthesized by etching the bulk MAB phase (Mo2/3Y1/3)2AlB2 into Mo4/3B2 nanosheets in ZnCl2 molten salt. The Mo4/3B2 nanosheets show robust intrinsic ferromagnetic properties, with a saturation magnetic moment of 0.044 emu g−1 at 300 K, while vacancy‐free MoB MBene exhibits paramagnetism. It is elucidated that the Mo‐vacancy defect generates large density of states near the Fermi surface and spontaneously spin‐split bands through first‐principles calculations, which contributes to the non‐zero magnetic moment in Mo4/3B2 nanosheets. This work lays the groundwork for activating the magnetic properties of MBene nanosheets by vacancy engineering, offering the possibilities for development of practical spintronic devices.
Anomalously High Apparent Young's Modulus of Ultrathin Freestanding PZT Films Revealed by Machine Learning Empowered Nanoindentation
Authors: Lyu Longji , Song Chunlin , Wang Yanghe , Wu Dirui , Zhang Yingli , Su Shengyao , Huang Boyuan , Li Changjian , Xu Mengkang , Li Jiangyu
Published: November 2024

The mechanical properties at small length scales are not only significant for understanding the intriguing size‐dependent behaviors but also critical for device applications. Nanoindentation via atomic force microscopy is widely used for small‐scale mechanical testing, yet determining the Young's modulus of quasi‐2D films from freestanding force–displacement curve of nanoindentation remains challenging, complicated by both bending and stretching that are highly nonlinear. To overcome these difficulties, a machine learning model is developed based on the back propagation (BP) neural network and finite element training to accurately determine the Young's modulus, pretension, and thickness of freestanding films from nanoindentation force–displacement curves simultaneously, improving the computational efficiency by two orders of magnitude over conventional brute force curve fitting. Using this technique, anomalously high apparent Young's modulus is discovered of 2.8 nm thick PbZr0.2Ti0.8O3 (PZT) film as large as 229.4 ± 12.1 GPa, much higher than the bulk value. The enhancement can be attributed to the strain gradient‐induced flexoelectric effect, and the corresponding flexoelectric coefficient is estimated to be ≈200 nC m−1. The method is developed to enable an artificial intelligence (AI) system to study the mechanical properties of a wide range of low‐dimensional materials.
Polarization‐Dependent Nonlinear Optical Responses of CrPS4 for Ultrafast All‐Optical Switches
Authors: Yan Lei , Gong Ziyao , He Qinyong , Shen Dechao , Ge Anping , Liu Yang , Ma Guohong , Dai Ye , Sun Liaoxin , Zhang Saifeng
Published: November 2024

Due to the extraordinary chemical and physical properties, ternary chalcogenides with wide‐range bandgap, unique structures, and exceptional photoelectric properties have attracted great interest recently. Among them, Chromium thiophosphate (CrPS4) is a promising semiconductor with excellent optical, mechanical, and electronic properties and has a lower lattice symmetry resulting in significant in‐plane anisotropy. Here, the polarization‐dependent nonlinear optical (NLO) responses of CrPS4 flake are investigated. Based on polarization‐resolved Raman spectroscopy, which identifies the crystal axis of sample, the anisotropic linear absorption spectra, I‐scan technique, and pump‐probe measurements are utilized to investigate the optical absorption information of CrPS4. The polarization‐dependent NLO responses are found originating from the anisotropic optical transition probability. And the polar optical phonons play an important role in carrier relaxation processes. Furthermore, CrPS4‐based all‐optical switches are proposed, which can modulate the transmittance of signal light (CW laser) by changing the polarization of switch light (fs laser). This work provides insights into polarization‐dependent CrPS4‐based devices, which is important to promote the potential applications in optical modulator, versatile optoelectronic detection, and so on.
Synergistic Impact of Passivation and Efficient Hole Extraction on Phase Segregation in Mixed Halide Perovskites
Authors: Zhang Zhaojie , Gilchrist Rebecca J. , Tsuji Miu , Grimm Ronald L. , Mani Tomoyasu , Venkataraman D.
Published: November 2024

The interface between the hole transport layer (HTL) and perovskite in p‐i‐n perovskite solar cells (PSCs) plays a vital role in the device performance and stability. However, the impact of this interface on the vertical phase segregation of mixed halide perovskite remains insufficiently understood. This work systematically investigates the impact of chemical and electronic properties of HTL on vertical halide segregation of mixed‐halide perovskites. This work shows that incorporating a poly[bis(4‐phenyl) (2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl) amine] (PTAA)/CuIxBr1‐x bilayer as the HTL significantly suppresses light‐induced vertical phase segregation in MAPb(I0.7Br0.3)3. This work uses grazing‐incidence X‐ray diffraction (GIXRD) to capture the depth‐resolved composition change of MAPb(I0.7Br0.3)3 at the interface and within the bulk under illumination. By changing the illumination direction and the electronic properties of HTL, this work elucidates the roles of charge carrier extraction and interfacial defects on vertical phase segregation. The PTAA/CuIxBr1‐x bilayer, with its synergistic passivation and efficient hole extraction ability, stabilizes the interface and bulk of the mixed halide perovskite layer and prevents phase segregation. This work underscores that synergetic passivation and efficient hole extraction pack a more powerful punch for arresting the vertical phase segregation in mixed‐halide perovskite.
Selective Up‐ and Down‐Conversion Luminescence for Nonlinear Expansion of Unclonable Parameter Space
Authors: Kim Dong Wook , Jang Jaehyuck , Leem Jung Woo , Yun Heechang , Ko Byoungsu , Kim Ik‐Soo , Park Hyeji , Kim Young L. , Rho Junsuk , Jeong Unyong
Published: November 2024

Optical physical unclonable functions (PUFs) have attracted considerable attention as an immediately exploitable cryptographic primitive for high‐level hardware security attributed to their potential for implementing a large parameter space through the incorporation of robust optical phenomena. However, previous optical PUFs primarily relied on linear and single‐channel optical processes, requiring an increase in the number of optical inputs (materials or wavelengths) in a monotonous manner to scale up challenge‐response pairs. Herein, an optical PUF capable of nonlinearly expanding the parameter space to enhance the cryptographic strength through the selective adjustment of up‐ and down‐conversion luminescence is introduced. The nonlinearity in the expansion of the parameter space originates from a random distribution of three types of microspheres, with their shells designed to exhibit various positional arrangements of upconversion nanoparticles and perovskite crystals. Because energy and photon interactions depend on their positional proximity and excitation power, adjusting the two excitation inputs into five power steps enables the single PUF to generate 30 unique cryptographic keys, which is 15 times greater than what a linear system can offer. The PUF also demonstrates high stability, maintaining its cryptographic performance when exposed to heat, moisture, and long‐term laser excitation, underscoring its practical applicability in security protocols.
A 2DEG‐Based GaN‐on‐Si Terahertz Modulator with Multi‐Mode Switchable Control
Authors: Chen Shanri , Duan Siyu , Zou Yongtu , Zhou Shaolin , Wu Jingbo , Jin Biaobing , Zhu Haoshen , Che Wenquan , Xue Quan
Published: November 2024

As terahertz (THz) technology has been widely considered as a key candidate for future sixth‐generation wireless communication networks, THz modulators show profound significance in wireless communication, data storage, and imaging. In special, dynamic tuning of THz waves through 2D electron gas (2DEG) incorporated with a hybrid design of metasurface has attracted keen interest due to the combined merits of deliberate structural design, rapid switching speed and the process compatibility. Current meta‐modulator enables very high modulation depth but encounter limited bandwidth. In this paper, by taking into account the co‐functional effects of temperature and voltage‐dependent dynamic control on transmission amplitude, a 2DEG‐based GaN‐on‐Si modulator with two switchable operational states (or four modes) of active wave control is proposed. Under cryogenic temperature conditions, the proposed device exhibits prominent 2D plasmons characteristics with switchable transitions between the gated mode and ungated mode for active control. Under room temperature conditions, the proposed device exhibits non‐resonance broadband spectra characteristics with tunable transitions between the linearity mode and depletion mode for transmission control. The scheme provides an option for the development of the actively tunable THz meta‐modulator and paves a way for the robust multifunctionality of electrically controllable THz switching, and biosensors.
Magnetic Field Enhanced Frequency‐Selective Terahertz Detection via 3D Printing Micro‐Helical Stepped and MoTe2 Coated Arrays
Authors: Peng Zhong‐Ze , Song Qi , Yang Jiachen , Zhang Min , Hou Shao‐Dong , Zhang Bing‐Yuan , Chen Wei , Lu Yan‐Qing
Published: November 2024

Recent advancements in wireless communication have markedly increased data throughput and decreased latency in progressing toward sixth‐generation (6G) networks, wherein the terahertz (THz) waveband offers significant potential. However, conventional THz sensors often suffer from high noise, low responsivity, and low spectrum efficiency, limiting their effectiveness for THz applications. Here, to address these challenges, a magnetic‐enhanced frequency‐selective is developed THz sensor by depositing an Au‐enhanced active layer of MoTe2 on a designed 3D printing high‐depth micro‐helical stepped structure. This sensor, featuring four characteristic frequency points and an effective area of 107.12 mm2, demonstrated noticeable improvements under a 0.145 mT magnetic field at 0.1 THz: optical responsivity improved by 413.23% (from 3.32 to 17.03 MV W−1), noise equivalent power decreased by 80.51% (from 49.16 to 9.58 pW Hz−1/2), and the detectivity reached 3.30 × 1010 cm·Hz1/2·W−1. This work highlights the potential of integrating 3D microstructures with novel topological materials for practical 6G communication.
Blue Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent OLEDs With EQE up to 25% via 3MMLCT‐Induced and Short‐Lived Phosphorescent Dinuclear Pt(II) Sensitizers
Authors: Lee Gyeong Seok , Hwang Kyo Min , Kang Iljoon , Hong Seong Hwan , Kim Sungbum , Jeong Yeonju , Elumalai Ramachandran , Ko Soo‐Byung , Kim Taekyung , Kim Yun‐Hi
Published: November 2024

The novel dinuclear Pt(II) complexes, Di‐Pt‐CH3 and Di‐Pt‐CD3 with non‐fluorinated n‐hetero cyclic (NHC) ligands are developed. They exhibit phosphorescent emission in the range of 440–460 nm in film state with ≈60% photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) and a shorter lifetime due to a moderate Pt‐Pt distance of 3.21 Å. By suitably combining with blue multiresornance thermally activated delay fluorescence ( MR‐TADF) emitters, t‐DABNA and ν‐DABNA, efficient energy transfer is achieved from the triplet intraligand state (3IL) and triplet metal ligand change transfer (3MLCT) mixed states of Pt(II) complexes to the singlet state of the emitters. Importantly, the delayed triplet lifetime of the TADF emitter is shortened through the fast relaxation of triplet metal‐metal to ligand charge transfer (3MMLCT) states, possessing 0.07 eV lower energy compared to the triplet states of the TADF emitters. Di‐Pt‐CH3 and Di‐Pt‐CD3 are employed in phosphorescent and phosphorescent sensitized TADF (PS‐TADF) blue OLEDs, resulting in high external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 18.8% and 25.4%, respectively. An extremely low roll‐off characteristic of 9.8% is observed in the PS‐TADF OLED. Additionally, deuterium substitution of the methyl group improved phosphorescent device lifetime by 2.6 times. Notably, Di‐Pt‐CD3 resulted in significant lifetime enhancements: 4.7 times in phosphorescent devices and 6.6 times in PS‐TADF devices, compared with Ir(cb)3‐based devices. The mechanism for the increased lifetime is extensively studied through the magneto‐electroluminescence (MEL) and transient electroluminescence (TrEL) measurements.
Bright Transparent Glass‐Ceramic Scintillators With High Fraction (Ca, Sr, Ba)1‐xYxF2+x: Tb Nanocrystals Precipitation for X‐ray Low‐Dose Detection and High‐Resolution Imaging
Authors: Liu Qunhuo , Ran Peng , Chen Weilin , Zhang Wei , Jiang Tingming , Qiao Xvsheng , Yang Yang (M.) , Fan Xianping
Published: November 2024

Transparent glass‐ceramic (GC) scintillator offers cost‐effective and large‐scale preparation for high‐resolution X‐ray imaging and detectors. However, it remains difficult to precipitate a high fraction of lanthanide activated fluoride nanocrystals that determine scintillation properties in glass. Herein, an ionic‐covalent fluoroaluminate‐phosphate glass network structure is constructed by combining simulation and experimental study, which enables the precipitation of (Ca, Sr, Ba)1‐xYxF2+x: Tb nanocrystals with high crystallinity (30.11%). By adjusting Tb doping concentration, heat treatment temperature and duration, a high internal quantum efficiency of 76.07%, the steady‐state light yield of 12710 photons MeV−1 and the lowest X‐ray detection of 180 nGyair s−1 are obtained. Finally, a high‐resolution (23.4 lp mm−1) X‐ray imaging application is realized by using the (Ca, Sr, Ba)1‐xYxF2+x: Tb GC scintillator. This provides a new option for the development of low‐cost, high‐performance scintillators for X‐ray high‐resolution imaging and low‐dose detection applications.
DNA‐Based Nanocarriers to Sequester Altered microRNAs in Cardiac Dysfunction
Authors: Postigo Alejandro , Hernández‐Bellido Natalia , Sánchez‐Barat Marcos , García‐Mendívil Laura , Pueyo Esther , del Barrio Jesús , Hernández‐Ainsa Silvia , Ordovás Laura
Published: November 2024

MicroRNAs (miRs) play a critical role in modulating gene expression across biological processes, including cardiac aging and disease. As such, miRs have demonstrated therapeutic potential in several cardiac conditions. Efficient delivery of miR therapies to cardiac tissue is crucial for effective gene therapy and DNA‐based nanocarriers (DNCs), based on Watson‐Crick‐Franklin highly specific base‐pair recognition, have emerged as a promising, biocompatible alternative to viral‐based methods. Here, DNCs designed to modulate miR levels as a potential treatment for cardiac dysfunction are presented. Specifically, the DNCs target miR‐24‐2, which inhibits SERCA2 gene. In humans, the reduction of SERCA2 activity is a hallmark of heart failure and is altered in cardiac aging. The assembled DNCs bearing anti‐miR‐24‐2‐5p sequences effectively restore intracellular levels of SERCA2 in a HEK293 cell model. The DNCs proper assembly is thoroughly verified, while their stability and miR‐capture ability are demonstrated in vitro. The DNCs exhibit successful internalization into HEK293 and modest uptake into human cardiomyocytes. SERCA2 restoration by DNCs is significantly influenced by the miR‐capture sequence layout, underscoring the importance of precise design for optimal biological outcomes. This study highlights the potential of DNCs in cardiac therapies, a previously unexplored avenue for addressing cardiac dysfunction.
Applications and Developments of Gene Therapy Drug Delivery Systems for Neurological Disorders
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc Hong , Nguyen‐Thi Phuong‐Trang , Nguyen Thuy Trang , Bui Vu Khac Hoang , Nguyen Nhat Thang Thi , Vo Giau Van
Published: November 2024

Neurological diseases (NDs) such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, ischemic strokes, spinal cord injuries, and other similar conditions that continue to pose a substantial health and economic burden on a global scale. It is crucial to tackle the difficulties provided by current medications due to the adverse effects and its immunological reactions to develop improved treatments for neurodegenerative illnesses. Gene therapy is currently being extensively used in preclinical and clinical studies for various diseases because of its ability to enhance the delivery and effectiveness of treatments. Various gene delivery techniques, including messenger RNA, small interfering RNA, antisense oligonucleotides, microRNA, CRISPR/Cas9 system, and plasmid DNA, have been created to address these difficulties. The goal of this study is to provide a clear overview of the pathophysiological underpinnings of NDs illnesses while also illuminating recent developments in gene delivery vector technologies. It goes over the main classifications of these vectors, their individual benefits and drawbacks, and their specific applications in the delivery of gene therapy.
A Neural Circuit For Bergamot Essential Oil‐Induced Anxiolytic Effects
Authors: Zhu Meng‐Yu , Dong Wan‐Ying , Guo Jin‐Rong , Huang Ji‐Ye , Cheng Ping‐Kai , Yang Yumeng , Liu An , Yang Xin‐Lu , Zhu Xia , Zhang Zhi , Wang Yuanyin , Tao Wenjuan
Published: November 2024

Aromatic essential oils have been shown to relieve anxiety and enhance relaxation, although the neural circuits underlying these effects have remained unknown. Here, it is found that treatment with 1.0% bergamot essential oil (BEO) exerts anxiolytic‐like effects through a neural circuit projecting from the anterior olfactory nucleus (AON) to the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in acute restraint stress model mice. Collectively, in vivo two‐photon calcium imaging, viral tracing, and whole‐cell patch clamp recordings show that inhalation exposure to 1.0% BEO can activate glutamatergic projections from the AON to GABAergic neurons in the ACC, which drives inhibition of local glutamatergic neurons (AONGlu→ACCGABA→Glu). Optogenetic or chemogenetic manipulation of this pathway can recapitulate or abolish the BEO‐induced anxiolytic‐like behavioral effects in mice with ARS. Beyond depicting a previously unrecognized pathway involved in stress response, this study provides a circuit mechanism for the effects of BEO and suggests a potential target for anxiety treatment.
Psychosocial factors associated with physical activity in people with dementia: A pilot cross‐sectional study
Authors: Farina Nicolas , Niazi Uzma , Mc Ardle Riona , Eronen Johanna , Lowry Ruth , Banerjee Sube
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To understand how psychosocial factors associated with physical activity differ based on disease severity in people with dementia, and how these factors are associated with physical activity participation.

Methods

Eighty‐seven people with dementia, alongside their family carer were asked to complete a series of questions related to physical activity participation, including barriers, motivators, and facilitators. Regression models were developed to understand how psychosocial factors were associated with physical activity participation in the cohort.

Results

In the final models, only the absence of intrapersonal barriers was associated with overall physical activity and regular moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity. Feelings of relatedness were associated with regular moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity only.

Conclusion

Reducing intrapersonal barriers would appear to be a potentially useful strategy to promote physical activity in people with dementia. However, a tailored approach is needed depending on the desired physical activity outcome.
Helicobacter pylori prevalence and its spontaneous eradication rate after distal or proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer: A multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Omori Takeshi , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Kurokawa Yukinori , Masuzawa Toru , Akamaru Yusuke , Motoori Masaaki , Saito Takuro , Yamamoto Kazuyoshi , Nishikawa Kazuhiro , Imamura Hiroshi , Takeno Atsushi , Kawabata Ryohei , Fujiwara Yoshiyuki , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Doki Yuichiro
Published: November 2024

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication is recommended in patients undergoing endoscopic resection for early gastric cancer to reduce recurrence. However, due to the possibility of spontaneous regression secondary to dynamic changes in the remnant stomach, the immediate eradication after gastrectomy for H. pylori carriers remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of H. pylori in Japanese patients with gastric cancer and the spontaneous eradication rate after distal or proximal gastrectomy.

Methods

This multicenter prospective cohort study was conducted at 22 institutions. Eligibility criteria was patients over 20 years planned to undergo R0 gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The primary endpoint was spontaneous eradication rate 1 year after distal or proximal gastrectomy. The prevalence of H. pylori infection before surgery and clinical features related to spontaneous eradication were examined.

Results

A total of 1247 patients were included in this study. The preoperative H. pylori status was positive in 756 patients and negative in 491. Seventy‐nine of the negative patients had an eradication history, totaling 835 (67%) patients preoperatively infected with H. pylori. The infection status of 541 patients was examined 1 year postoperatively; 285 were negative, with a 52.7% spontaneous eradication rate. Spontaneous eradication was significantly higher in male and older patients (>70 years); other factors, such as histological type, gastrectomy method and adjuvant chemotherapy presence, did not affect the rate.

Conclusions

As spontaneous H. pylori eradication occurred in more than half of the analyzed patients, retesting for H. pylori. should be considered before postoperative eradication therapy (UMIN000020280).
Longitudinal Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Asymptomatic C9orf72 Mutation Carriers Distinguishes Phenoconverters to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis With Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: van Veenhuijzen Kevin , Tan Harold H.G. , Nitert Abram D. , van Es Michael A. , Veldink Jan H. , van den Berg Leonard H. , Westeneng Henk‐Jan
Published: November 2024

Objective

We prospectively studied asymptomatic C9orf72 mutation carriers, identifying those developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

Methods

We enrolled 56 asymptomatic family members (AFM) with a C9orf72 mutation (AFM C9+), 132 non‐carriers (AFM C9−), and 359 population‐based controls. Using 3 T magnetic resonance imaging, we measured cortical thickness, gyrification, and subcortical volumes longitudinally. Linear mixed‐effects models on non‐converting AFM C9+ scans (n = 107) created a reference for these measurements, establishing individual atrophy patterns. Atrophy patterns from presymptomatic phenoconverters (n = 10 scans) served as a template for group comparisons and similarity assessments. Similarity with phenoconverters was quantified using Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) for cortical and Kullback–Leibler similarity (KLS) for subcortical measures. Using longitudinal similarity assessments, we predicted when participants would reach the average similarity level of phenoconverters at their first post‐onset scan.

Results

Five AFM C9+ converted to ALS or ALS‐FTD. Up to 6 years before symptoms, these phenoconverters exhibited significant atrophy in frontal, temporal, parietal, and cingulate cortex, along with smaller thalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala compared to other AFM C9+. Some non‐converted AFM C9+ had high DSC and KLS, approaching values of phenoconverters, whereas others, along with AFM C9− and controls, had lower values. At age 80, we predicted 27.9% (95% confidence interval, 13.2–40.1%) of AFM C9+ and no AFM C9− would reach the same DSC as phenoconverters.

Interpretation

Distinctive atrophy patterns are visible years before symptom onset on presymptomatic scans of phenoconverters. Combining baseline and follow‐up similarity measures may serve as a promising imaging biomarker for identifying those at risk of ALS or ALS‐FTD. ANN NEUROL 2025;97:281–295
Combining Simple Deformations to Elicit Complex Motions and Directed Swimming of Smart Organic Crystals with Controllable Thickness
Authors: Zhu Xiaotong , Xie Mengyuan , Gao Lin , Li Liang , Naumov Panče , Yu Qi , Wang Guoming
Published: November 2024

The lack of control over the crystal growth in a systematic way currently stands as an unsurmountable impediment to the preparation of dynamic crystals as soft robots; in effect, the mechanical effects of molecular crystals have become a subject of scattered reports that pertain only to specific crystal sizes and actuation conditions, often without the ability to establish or confirm systematic trends. One of the factors that prevents the verification of such performance is the unavailability of strategies for effectively controlling crystal size and aspect ratio, where crystals of serendipitous size are harvested from crystallization solution. Here we devised a water‐assisted precipitation method to prepare crystals of chemical variants of 9‐anthracene derivatives with various thicknesses that respond to ultraviolet light with simple mechanical effects, including bending, splintering, and rotation. By capitalizing on the robust mechanical flexibility and deformability of crystals, we demonstrate systematic variations in crystal deformation that are further elevated in complexity to construct crystal‐based robots capable of controllable motions reminiscent of sailing and humanoid movements. The results illustrate an approach to eliminate one of the critical obstacles towards complete control over the motility of dynamic molecular crystals as microrobots in non‐aerial environments.
Asymmetric Carbene Insertion into Se−S Bonds by Synergistic Rh(II)/Guanidine Catalysis Involving Chalcogen‐Bond Assistance
Authors: He Xin , Fu Yihua , Xi Ruiying , Zhang Cefei , Lan Kexin , Su Zhishan , Wang Fei , Feng Xiaoming , Liu Xiaohua
Published: November 2024

The efficient construction of chalcogen‐atom‐based chiral compounds remains a challenge, despite the importance of organoselenium and organosulfur compounds in life and materials science. Chalcogen atoms can form net attractive interactions called chalcogen bonds, but it is an undeveloped tool to assist asymmetric catalysis. Herein, we report an enantioselective insertion platform to install a stereogenic center bearing selenyl and thiocyano functional groups. Our method operates by synergistic catalysis by a chiral guanidine and an achiral dirhodium complex in a three‐component or four‐component reaction, through Se−S bond insertion into carbene species, competing successfully with the spontaneous racemic process and showing high regioselectivity. As elucidated by spectroscopic experiments and computational studies, a unique mechanism involving chalcogen as well as hydrogen bonding was established to account for the enantiocontrol. The high stereoselectivity holds for a broad array of selenylthiocyanatopropanoates, which showed excellent anti‐inflammatory toward IL‐1β and low cytotoxicity.
Integrated Ziegler–Natta/Brookhart‐Ni Catalysts for the Synthesis of Sutured Polar High‐Impact Polypropylenes
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Chao , Tan Chen , Chen Changle
Published: November 2024

The direct synthesis of polar high‐impact polypropylenes using industrially‐preferred heterogeneous catalysts is challenging due to the poisoning of polar functional groups towards metal center and the high stereo‐selectivity requirement. In this work, dual‐site catalysts combining Ziegler–Natta and Brookhart‐Ni catalysts were used to produce polar polyolefin ionomers, followed by polar high‐impact polypropylenes containing isotactic polypropylene and branched polyethylene as toughening agents. Three combination modes between these catalysts were investigated, including mixed, core–shell, and integrated types. The integrated dual‐site catalyst achieved the optimal material properties because the polyolefin ionomer acted as a suture molecule that stitched different components into a whole network. This produced sutured polar high‐impact polypropylenes with excellent mechanical properties and compatibility with polar substances. The restraining effect of the suture molecules greatly reduced the release of microplastic particles after aging. Moreover, the obtained polar high‐impact polypropylene can serve as an efficient compatibilizer to recycle polyethylene/polypropylene mixed‐waste plastics. This work provides an appealing and potentially practical strategy to upgrade the widely used polypropylenes and to alleviate the ever‐growing plastic pollution issue.
Thermochromic insulation composites for prewarning of thermal faults in electrical equipment
Authors: Jiang Xianrui , Hu Tianyu , Yao Ke , Xiong Ruotong , Qu Jiashu , Liu Qichang , Niu Chaolu , Sun Potao , Sima Wenxia
Published: November 2024

Thermal faults occur in the continuous operation of electrical equipment. This poses a threat to the stable operation of power systems. However, existing detection methods do not apply to large‐scale temperature measurement scenarios due to high cost and poor stability. To solve the above problems, a reversible thermochromic microcapsule is proposed in this work. Silicone rubber composite can be endowed with thermal sensing capability by doping an appropriate amount of thermochromic microcapsules inside the silicone rubber matrix. The test results showed that the color of the obtained thermochromic composites changed sensitively with the change in external temperature. The material undergoes a sudden color change at about 50°C achieving a reversible color change from blue to colorless. The color difference before and after the color change can be up to 37.24. In addition, the color difference shows an exponential decay trend with time. When the dopant concentration of the microcapsules is 1.5 wt%, the composite material shows excellent color‐changing performance, and the insulation strength is increased by 6.92% compared with the pure silicone rubber. Meanwhile, the water contact angle of the composite is 115.3°, which proves that it has good hydrophobicity. Notably, the thermochromic composite also showed excellent weathering properties in thermal aging experiments. The thermochromic microcapsule proposed in this work can realize the visualization of the local overheating state of the electrical equipment, which provides a new idea for the application of thermal fault prewarning of the electrical equipment.