bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrared Microspectroscopy and Laser Raman Microprobe in the Diagnosis of Cystinosis
Authors: Centeno Jose A. , Ishak Kamal G. , Mullick Florabel G. , Gahl William A. , O'Leary Timothy J.
Published: September 2005

Infrared microspectroscopy and the laser Raman microprobe method have been employed for the identification of cystine crystals in human tissue specimens. Scanning electron microscopy was also employed to study the morphologic changes associated with the formation of these crystals in tissue. For the Raman microprobe experiments, unstained tissue specimens sectioned at 6 to 10-μm were mounted on an ordinary microscope glass slide and excited with the 514.5-nm line from an argonion laser. Cystine crystals in liver and spleen specimens were easily identified by the enhancement of Raman lines at 501 and 2916–2967 cm−1 arising from the disulfide (S-S) linkage and the C-H stretch motion, respectively. The infrared spectra, on the other hand, displayed absorptions at 1338, 1411, and 1621–1656 cm−1 assigned to the cystine C–C, –COO−, and C=O group stretching frequencies, respectively. In contrast to previous macro-analytical applications of Raman scattering and infrared spectroscopy, the micro-analytical experimental approach developed here allows for morphologic and analytical determinations to be conducted on the same tissue specimen. In addition, because of the nondestructive nature of Raman and infrared microspectroscopy, the combination of these two techniques provides a rapid, accurate, and sensitive analysis to improve the diagnosis of these materials in tissue sections.
Pump-Probe Laser Photolytic Fragmentation Fluorescence Spectrometry of Isomeric Alkenes
Authors: Stanton Bobby J. , Monroe E. T. , Wehry E. L.
Published: September 2005

The two-laser “pump-probe” photolytic fragmentation fluorescence spectrometry of three octenes and two nonenes is described. Probe-laser-induced C2 fluorescence (Deslandres-d'Azambuja system, C1II g→ A1II u) is detected. The relative C2 fluorescence intensity and spectral patterns exhibited by each alkene are strongly dependent on the probe-laser wavelength. The dependence of the fragment fluorescence intensity on the probe-laser fluence implies that the “probe” laser induces photofragmentation of intermediate species produced by the “photolysis” laser.
Noninvasive Mitochondrial Imaging in Live Cell Culture
Authors: Sikder Shameema , Reyes Johann M. G. , Moon Christina S. , Suwan‐apichon Olan , Elisseeff Jennifer H. , Chuck Roy S.
Published: September 2005

The observed distribution of mitochondria in a cell can vary with environmental influence, degree of differentiation and disease. Differences in the distribution of mitochondrial autofluorescence may be used to distinguish these different cellular states.
Measuring Maternal Sensitivity in Teen Mothers: Reliability and Feasibility of Two Instruments
Authors: Stiles Anne Scott
Published: September 2005

This study’s purpose was to compare the reliability and feasibility of two instruments measuring maternal sensitivity in adolescent mothers—the Maternal Sensitivity Q-Sort (MBQS) and the Ainsworth Maternal Sensitivity Scale (AMSS). After 2, 4, and 6 hours of home observations, 2 raters completed the MBQS and the AMSS on 10 adolescent mothers. The intraclass correlations for interrater reliability of the MBQS and AMSS were .80 and .81, respectively. There was no significant difference in raters’ scores among times 1, 2, or 3 for either instrument, implying that perhaps only 2 hours of observation is required. Training times for the MBQS and AMSS were 15 hours and 13 hours, respectively. Completion time for the MBQS averaged 59 minutes compared to 5 minutes for the AMSS. At a pay rate of $12/hour for one rater, completion of 30 visits costs $354 for the MBQS compared to $30 for the AMSS. There was magnitude bias in both instruments such that the lower the sensitivity score, the greater was the difference in ratings. Results suggest that while both tools are equally reliable, the AMSS is the most cost-effective and time-efficient. Agreement among raters leads only to reliability, not validity. Testing needs to be done on a larger sample of adolescents to further evaluate reliability as well as the relative validity of the measures.
Female-Perpetrated Intimate Partner Violence and Romantic Attachment Style in a College Student Sample
Authors: Orcutt Holly K. , Garcia Marilyn , Pickett Scott M.
Published: September 2005

The frequency, severity, and reciprocity of female-perpetrated intimate partner violence and its consequences (i. e., injuries) were investigated in a college sample of women (N = 457). Participants were classified into one of the following four groups on the basis of selfreported physical assault perpetration and victimization against their relationship partners: nonviolent, perpetrator-only, victim-only, and bidirectionally violent. Results showed that females in the bidirectionally violent group had a reportedly higher occurrence (although not always statistically significant) of perpetration and victimization than those in the perpetrator-only and victim-only groups. Additionally, a similar degree of reciprocity was indicated by females in bidirectionally violent relationships in terms of violence severity and the occurrence of injury. Adult romantic attachment style was also examined among a subset of females (N = 328), and bidirectionally violent females were found to have the highest reported levels of attachment anxiety. Further, females high in attachment anxiety and low in attachment avoidance were more likely to report perpetrating violence than females high in both styles. Implications for prevention are discussed.
Typology of Reactions to Intimate Partner Violence Among Men and Women Arrested for Partner Violence
Authors: Hamberger L. Kevin , Guse Clare
Published: September 2005

This study examined behavioral and emotional responses to partner-initiated violence reported by men and women court-ordered to domestic violence counseling. Respondents provided Likert-type ratings of behavioral and emotional responses to their partners’ initiated violence. Cluster analysis to determine heterogeneity of emotional and behavioral responses resulted in a three-cluster solution. The profile for Cluster 1, predominantly male, showed no specific behavioral or emotional reaction pattern. Cluster 2 respondents, evenly split between males and females, but comprising a high proportion of all of the female participants, reported frequently doing what the partner wanted and attempting to escape. Emotional responses experienced by Cluster 2 respondents were anger, insult, and fear. Cluster 3, predominantly male, reported a frequent tendency to use force in response and escape when their partners initiated physical violence. Emotionally, Cluster 3 participants reported experiencing high levels of anger and insult, and relatively low levels of fear and low levels of amusement. Implications of these findings for development of genderbased intervention strategies will be discussed.
UV Stabilizer BTMPS in the Illicit Fentanyl Supply in 9 US Locations
Authors: Shover Chelsea L. , Godvin Morgan E. , Appley Meghan , Pyfrom Elise M. , Castrillo Fernando Montero , Hochstatter Karli , Nadel Talia , Garg Neil , Koncsol Adam , Friedman Joseph R. , Molina Caitlin A. , Romero Ruby , Harshberger Brendan , Gonzalez Jordan A. M. , Spoliansky Jordan , Laurel Sarah , Jalayer Elham , Ruelas Juan , Gonzales John , Snakeoil Soma , Guerra Sonya , Arellano Oscar , Winstead Candace , Rybak Margaret , Champney Joanna , Waninger Brent , Torruella Rafael , Sisco Edward
Published: February 2025

This study characterizes the presence of bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate (BTMPS) in the illicit fentanyl supply in 9 US locations.
An Enlarging Painless Nodule on a Man’s Index Finger
Authors: Diong Sophie , Leonard Niamh , Boggs Jennifer M. E.
Published: February 2025

A man in his 50s with hepatitis C presented with an enlarging painless nodule on the right index finger. What is your diagnosis?
An Opportunity to Advance Cannabis Science—DEA Rescheduling
Authors: Hill Kevin P. , Puli Anshul V.
Published: February 2025

This Viewpoint discusses the regulatory and financial barriers to cannabis research, and the potential changes to these barriers if cannabis is reclassified as a Schedule III drug.
Epigenome‐wide association study, meta‐analysis, and multiscore profiling of whole blood in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lie Ingeborg Haugesag , Tan Manuela M. X. , Andersen Maren Stolp , Toft Mathias , Pihlstrøm Lasse
Published: February 2025

Objectives

An increasing body of evidence indicates altered DNA methylation in Parkinson's disease, yet the reproducibility and utility of such methylation changes are largely unexplored. We aimed to further elucidate the role of dysregulated DNA methylation in Parkinson's disease and to evaluate the biomarker potential of methylation‐based profiling.

Methods

We conducted an epigenome‐wide association study (EWAS) in whole blood, including 280 Parkinson's disease and 279 control participants from Oslo, Norway. Next, we took advantage of data from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) and a previously published EWAS to conduct a whole blood EWAS meta‐analysis in Parkinson's disease, incorporating results from a total of 3068 participants. Finally, we generated multiple methylation‐based scores for each Oslo and PPMI participant and tested their association with disease status, individually and in a joint multiscore model.

Results

In EWAS meta‐analysis, we confirm SLC7A11 hypermethylation and nominate a novel differentially methylated CpG near LPIN1. A joint multiscore model incorporating polygenic risk and methylation‐based estimates of epigenetic Parkinson's disease risk, smoking, and leukocyte proportions differentiated patients from control participants with an area under the receiver‐operator curve of 0.82 in the Oslo cohort and 0.65 in PPMI.

Interpretation

Our results highlight the power of DNA methylation profiling to capture multiple aspects of disease risk, indicating a biomarker potential for precision medicine in neurodegenerative disorders. The reproducibility of specific differentially methylated CpGs across data sets was limited but may improve if future studies are designed to account for disease stage and incorporate environmental exposure data.
Social Connections in Older Adults With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Patient Perspectives
Authors: Lieber Sarah B. , Young Sarah R. , Shea Yvonne , Gottesman Sarah P. , Lipschultz Robyn , Sun Dongmei , Reid M. Carrington , Mandl Lisa A. , Navarro‐Millán Iris
Published: February 2025

Objective

Interpersonal relationships are crucial to healthy aging. Social isolation is associated with multiple adverse health outcomes in older adults, including depression. Those with chronic conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), may be particularly vulnerable to social isolation. In this qualitative study, we elicited lived experiences of older adults with SLE related to social connections and emotional health.

Methods

Adults ≥65 years of age with SLE participated in semistructured interviews based on a descriptive phenomenological design to describe the experience of aging with SLE. We collected self‐reported data on sociodemographic and disease characteristics, social networks, and health‐related quality of life. We probed participants regarding their interpersonal relationships and the effect of SLE on general health in the context of aging. We analyzed qualitative data thematically.

Results

Among 30 participants with a mean age of 71.3 years, three themes emerged as essential to characterizing aging with SLE: (1) social isolation, (2) perceived burden to loved ones, and (3) adverse mental health effects of SLE. Participants frequently reported social isolation, often related to SLE disease manifestations rather than unavailability of social networks and situated within the context of burdening loved ones and mental health effects of SLE.

Conclusion

Social isolation was commonly reported by older adults with SLE. Larger observational studies are needed to improve characterization of social isolation in this population and understand its association with depression and other adverse health outcomes. Investigational studies integrating strategies to improve social isolation in older adults with SLE may improve their health and well‐being.
Pickering Emulsion for Enhanced Viability of Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria and Combined Delivery of Agrochemicals and Biologics
Authors: Sohail Mariam , Cheadle John , Khan Rishum , Mane Hrishikesh , Samaher Salem Khandoker , Ernst Katie , San Miguel Adriana , Opperman Charles H. , Pirzada Tahira , Crook Nathan , Khan Saad A.
Published: February 2025

Non‐sporulating plant growth‐promoting bacteria (PGPB) are widely underutilized in the bio‐based agroindustry due to difficulties in maintaining viability without spores. A unique approach is presented to prepare PGPB‐based green formulations by integrating Gram‐negative, nonsporulating PGPBs: Pseudomonas simiae (Psi) and Azospirillum brasilense (Abr) into cellulose acetate stabilized Pickering emulsions. The bacteria show enhanced survivability within the emulsions without any nutrient supply after 4 weeks of storage with Psi and Abr showing 200% and 500% increases respectively relative to non‐nutritive saline (1X PBS) control. Transcriptomics suggest that lysed bacteria from the emulsification process act as crucial nutrient sources, thereby boosting bacterial survival rates. Moreover, these PGPBs maintain survival even in the presence of the model pesticide fluopyram, with Pseudomonas simiae concentration showing a twofold increase after 1 month of storage while still preserving the efficacy of fluopyram against target pests. This robust survival trait among nonsporulating PGPB marks a notable advancement in developing formulations tailored specifically for these organisms. It underscores their untapped potential for practical applications in agricultural and environmental contexts. Furthermore, the emulsions enable simultaneous loading of biologicals (PGPBs) and agrochemical pesticides without compromising performance, thus offering the promise of a single loading platform to deliver multiple actives.
Time‐Resolved Control of MOF‐Nanoparticle Heterojunctions for Crystal Composites with Tailorable Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Fernández‐Conde Carmen , Szalad Horatiu , Almora‐Barrios Neyvis , Ribera Antonio , Albero Josep , Martí‐Gastaldo Carlos
Published: February 2025

The structural and compositional diversification of Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) continues to grow, along with the opportunities they offer in H₂ photoevolution or CO₂ photoreduction. This often requires the use of metal co‐catalysts for improving the efficiency and selectivity of the reaction. However, most studies often overlook how the integration of these two components can be used to tailor the photocatalytic performance of a given framework. Taking advantage of a new synthetic methodology that allows the growth of titanium‐based MUV‐10 crystals through continuous injection of its components, here it is demonstrated how the time‐resolved injection of Pt nanoparticles (NPs) at different stages of crystal growth results in tunable MOF/Pt heterojunctions with varying photocatalytic efficiencies, which can be used to boost performance by up to 2.5 times depending on the injection time.
Solid Catholyte with Regulated Interphase Redox for All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Shen Kaier , Shi Weize , Song Huimin , Zheng Chenxi , Yan Yingjing , Hong Xufeng , Liu Xu , An Yun , Li Yuanrui , Ye Fei , He Mengxue , Ye Guo , Ma Chenyan , Zheng Lei , Gao Peng , Pang Quanquan
Published: February 2025

All‐solid‐state lithium‐sulfur battery (ASSLSB) is considered one of the ultimate next‐generation energy storage technologies due to the expected low cost, high safety, and high specific energy. The high‐conductivity and low‐modulus sulfide electrolytes hold promise as electrolytes in the cathode (i.e., solid catholytes) for ASSLSBs, but their parasitic decomposition and reactions over cycling lead to degradation of the active material−catholyte interphases and hence limited cycling life. Herein a strategy is described to stabilize the ASSLSBs by regulating the interphase redox reversibility of the sulfide catholyte, which is validated on a new sulfide electrolyte formulated as Li6+xP1−xWxS5I (LPWSI). The experiments show that the presence of mixed ionic‐electronic conducting WS2 boosts the Li4P2S7−to−Li3PS4 reaction in the interphase, which prevents irreversible accumulation of impeding P2S74− and thereby improves the catholyte's interphase stability. With the LPWSI catholyte, the ambient‐temperature ASSLSB exhibits stable cycling sustaining 92.2% capacity over 400 cycles at C/5 with an initial areal capacity of 1.95 mA h cm−2. Furthermore, the cells demonstrate excellent high‐rate stability over 1000 cycles at rates of 1C and 2C. The reported strategy contributes to reshaping the understanding of how solid catholyte can function in composite cathodes and provides new guidelines for designing catholyte for high‐capacity conversion‐based electrodes that involve complex evolution of interphases.
Wafer‐Scale Synthesis of Topological Insulator Sb2Te3 Thin Films
Authors: Shafiei Ali , Fathi Hafshejani Ahmad , Ahmed Rehab M. G. , Lamperti Alessio , Longo Emanuele , Locatelli Lorenzo , Martella Christian , Molle Alessandro , Tallarida Graziella , Zucchetti Carlo , Wiemer Claudia , Longo Massimo , Mantovan Roberto
Published: February 2025

Recently, metal‐organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) has been proven successful to grow topological insulators such as antimony telluride (Sb2Te3), with their use as efficient spin‐charge converters at room temperature also being reported. On the other hand, a wafer‐scale synthesis of Sb2Te3 thin films showing clear‐cut electrical conduction driven by topologically protected surface states is still missing. Within this work, the growth of Sb2Te3 thin films with variable thicknesses over 4‐inch (4″) wafer‐scale Si(111) substrates as conducted via MOCVD is reported. By performing magnetoconductance measurements, weak antilocalization phenomena are detected over the whole 4″ area, thus proving the possibility to produce wafer‐scale Sb2Te3 topological insulator thin films. Furthermore, comprehensive information on the variability of the functional properties of Sb2Te3 thin films with their morphological, chemical, and structural properties, as probed by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction/reflectivity, atomic force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analyses is reported. This work provides a breakthrough for the technology scale‐up of these novel materials to be employed in future spintronic devices as well as applications in nanoelectronics, thermoelectrics, and quantum computing.
3D Printed Bioelectronic Scaffolds with Soft Tissue‐Like Stiffness
Authors: Okafor Somtochukwu S. , Park Jae , Liu Tianran , Goestenkors Anna P. , Alvarez Riley M. , Semar Barbara A. , Yu Justin S. , O'Hare Cayleigh P. , Montgomery Sandra K. , Friedman Lianna C. , Rutz Alexandra L.
Published: February 2025

3D printing is a leading technique for fabricating tissue engineering scaffolds that facilitate native cellular behavior. Engineering scaffolds to possess functional properties like electronic conductivity is the first step toward integrating new technological capabilities like stimulating or monitoring cellular activity beyond the traditionally presented biophysical and biochemical cues. However, these bioelectronic scaffolds have been largely underdeveloped since the majority of electrically conducting materials possess high stiffness values outside the physiological range and that may negatively impact desired cell behavior. Here, methods of 3D printing poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) hydrogel scaffolds and techniques to achieve stiffness relevant to many soft tissues (<100 kPa) are reported. Structures are confirmed as ideal tissue scaffolds by maintaining biostability, promoting high cell viability, as well as appropriate cell morphology and proliferation. These findings present a customizable 3D platform that provides favorable soft cellular microenvironments and this  is envisioned to be adaptable to several bioelectronic applications.
Lightweight, Strong, Hydrostable, Bendable, Rolled‐Up, and Biodegradable Straws Enabled by Nano‐ and Microarchitecture Tuning of the Wood Cell Wall and Molecular Welding Strategy
Authors: He Shuaiming , Chen Tianle , Li Zhulin , Li Yang , Little Joshua M. , Liang Chu‐Chun , Wu Yiqiang , Lee I‐Chi , Chen Po‐Yen
Published: February 2025

Plastic pollution has become a global environmental challenge. Specifically, plastic straws are widely discarded and do not naturally decompose. Paper straws, as alternatives, suffer from weak mechanical strength, poor water/beverage stability, and lack of bendability. Here, an all‐natural plastic substitute is fabricated using a top‐down approach. After lignin is selectively removed from a natural wood slice, the delignified wood is infiltrated with chitosan solution. The chitosan‐infiltrated wood, in its wet state, is highly flexible, moldable, and can be rolled into desired shapes. After drying, strong hydrogen bonds form at the cellulose/chitosan interfaces, making it an all‐natural plastic substitute. By enclosing two sides using a chitosan adhesive, an all‐natural straw is produced with a superior mechanical strength of 242 MPa, higher than polypropylene and paper straws. After baking, the all‐natural straws show high water stability and maintain high mechanical strength in water (136 MPa) and carbonated beverages (71 MPa) for >2 days. A water‐moldable process also creates accordion‐like joints, giving the all‐natural straws superior bendability (120°) and compressibility (50%). The all‐natural straws exhibit high biocompatibility, full biodegradability in 5 months, and high circularity. Overall, the eco‐friendly fabrication of all‐natural straws holds great potential in addressing the ongoing pollution of plastic straws.
Soft and Stretchable Thienopyrroledione‐Based Polymers via Direct Arylation
Authors: Lin Angela , Guio Lorenzo , LeCroy Garrett , Lo Stanley , Sharif Adnan , Wang Yunfei , Salleo Alberto , Gu Xiaodan , Luscombe Christine K. , Tran Helen
Published: February 2025

π‐conjugated polymers (CPs) that are concurrently soft and stretchable are needed for deformable electronics. Molecular‐level modification of indacenodithiophene (IDT) copolymers, a class of CPs that exhibit high hole mobilities (hole), is an approach that can help realize intrinsically soft and stretchable CPs. Numerous examples of design strategies to adjust the stretchability of CPs exist, but imparting softness is comparatively less studied. In this study, a systematic molecular weight (MW) series is constructed on a promising candidate for soft CPs, poly(indacenodithiophene‐co‐thienopyrroledione) (p(IDTC16‐TPDC8)), by optimizing direct arylation polymerization conditions in hopes of improving stretchability and μhole without significantly impacting softness. We found p(IDTC16‐TPDC8) at a degree of polymerization of 32 shows high stretchability (crack onset strain, CoS > 100%) without significantly impacting softness (elastic modulus, E = 32 MPa), which to the best of our knowledge outperforms previously reported stretchable and soft CPs. To further study how molecular‐level modifications impact polymer properties, a MW series of a new extended donor unit polymer, poly(indacenodithienothiophene‐co‐thienopyrroledione) (p(IDTTC16‐TPDC8)), was synthesized. The IDTTC16 copolymers did not result in a greater average μhole when comparing between p(IDTTC16‐TPDC8) and p(IDTC16‐TPDC8) despite their higher crystallinity observed by GIWAXS. While these findings warrant further investigation, this study points toward unique charge transport properties of IDT‐based polymers.
Enhancing Cycle Life in Superoxide‐Based Na–O2 Batteries by Reducing Interface Reactivity
Authors: Azaribeni Adel , Kondori Alireza , Shan Nannan , Park Moon Gyu , Harzandi Ahmad M. , Kim Ga‐Yoon , Saray Mahmoud Tamadoni , Thind Arashdeep S. , Delgado Pablo Navarro Munoz , Ncube Musawenkosi , Klie Robert F. , Shahbazian‐Yassar Reza , Ngo Ahn T. , Curtiss Larry A. , Asadi Mohammad
Published: February 2025

Sodium–oxygen (Na–O2) batteries are considered a promising energy storage alternative to current state‐of‐the‐art technologies owing to their high theoretical energy density, along with the natural abundance and low price of Na metal. The chemistry of these batteries depends on sodium superoxide (NaO2) or peroxide (Na2O2) being formed/decomposed. Most Na–O2 batteries form NaO2, but reversibility is usually quite limited due to side reactions at interfaces. By using new materials, including a highly active catalyst based on vanadium phosphide (VP) nanoparticles, an ether/ionic liquid‐based electrolyte, and an effective sodium bromide (NaBr) anode protection layer, the sources of interface reactivity can be reduced to achieve a Na–O2 battery cell that is rechargeable for 1070 cycles with a high energy efficiency of more than 83%. Density functional theory calculations, along with experimental characterization confirm the three factors leading to the long cycle life, including the effectiveness of the NaBr protective layer on the anode, a tetraglyme/EMIM‐BF4 based electrolyte that prevents oxidation of the VP cathode catalyst surface, and the EMIM‐BF4 ionic liquid aiding in avoiding electrolyte decomposition on NaO2.
Photo‐Switchable Supercapacitors based on Photo‐Responsive Azopolymers: Enabling Dual‐Functionality in Tunable High Capacitance and Low Self‐Discharge
Authors: Kim Younghoon , Bark Hyunwoo , Gupta Adit , Zhang Yufei , Lee Jinpyo , Lee Pooi See
Published: February 2025

Stimuli‐responsive energy storage devices have attracted significant interest for their potential in next‐generation smart devices. Herein, the reversible photo‐switchable supercapacitors utilizing azobenzene‐containing polymer composite electrolytes are presented. Through the gel‐to‐sol transition triggered by light exposure, as proven using rheological analysis, these photo‐switchable electrolytes exhibit an impressive ionic conductivity modulation of 3206%. Owing to the reversible photo‐responsive physical properties, the photo‐switchable supercapacitors deliver a notable capacitance modulation of 105% with a rapid response time of 4 min. Additionally, the devices showed reduced self‐discharging properties under visible light exposure, highlighting their potential use in long‐term energy storage applications. The photo‐controllable and fast response features in this study create new possibilities for the development of multi‐functional energy storage devices.
Impact of Molecular Structure on Generation in D–A Heterojunction Photocatalysts for Efficient Dye Degradation under Weak Light
Authors: Huang Ciyuan , Yang Linji , Geng Nannan , Sun Ke , Yang Tao , Pan Mingzhang , Liu Tao
Published: February 2025

The dual challenges of photocatalysis technology in addressing wastewater pollution and the energy crisis demand advanced photocatalysts with enhanced visible light absorption and efficient charge separation. This work utilizes bulk‐heterojunction organic solar cell (BHJ‐OSCs) active layers as photocatalytic sources, presenting PM6:PIID‐ClBF@BC, a biochar‐supported donor‐acceptor (D‐A) heterojunction organic photocatalyst, designed for water phototreatment and clarify the impacts of molecular structure on photocatalytic activity, simultaneously assist with challenges associated with OSCs waste disposal and resource secondary expansion. PM6:PIID‐ClBF@BC achieves complete RhB degradation within 10 minutes and maintains nearly 100% over 20 cycles. Additionally, it generated 28.15 µmol of H₂ within 3 hours, corresponding to a rate of 187.67 µmol h⁻¹ g⁻¹. The superior performance is attributed to its broader visible‐light absorption, increased electronegativity (enhanced dipole moment) induced by chlorine substitution, and favorable stacking interactions provide larger electron delocalization, forming a strong internal electric field that drives efficient charge separation and intramolecular charge transfer thereby enhancing reactive oxygen species generation. Electrostatic interactions between PM6:PIID‐ClBF@BC and RhB facilitate effective adsorption and catalysis, with higher superoxide radical levels driving degradation. This highlights the crucial role of molecular structure in optimizing photocatalytic performance, offering insights for designing next‐generation photocatalysts for environmental remediation and sustainable energy.
Woven, In‐Air, Textile Actuators by Conjugated Polymers and Solid‐State Electrolyte Tape Yarns
Authors: Backe Carin , Martinez Jose G. , Guo Li , Plesse Cedric , Jager Edwin. W. H. , Persson Nils‐Krister
Published: February 2025

Soft actuators are necessary for the development of soft robotics. While advances have been made in creating artificial means of motion with compliant materials, challenges remain. Within the area of electromechanically active polymers, forces are often small and limited to wet electrolyte conditions. Herein, textile logics and processes are employed to demonstrate woven, in‐air operating, freestanding, soft textile actuators which can be electrically controlled. In‐air actuating trilayer tape yarn consisting of poly(3,4ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrenesulfonate layers and an ionogel are developed. The former acts as polymeric electroactive electrodes and the latter as a solid‐state electrolyte, providing ions for the actuation. Weaving is used for creating bending fabrics, possible to post‐process like any fabric. By weaving, actuator tape yarns are assembled in parallel to upscale the total output force, or alternated with non‐actuating yarns to make passive and active areas. The weaving method also allows for additional yarn functionalities to be incorporated, e.g., to make conductive pathways, enabling multi‐actuation areas, and individual electrical control. Additionally, tape yarns are arranged to create textile structures with both actuation and sensing. As a proof‐of‐concept, the developed fabric actuators enable novel wearable robotic devices for future applications that are inherently soft, lightweight, and multifunctional.
What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger? Examining Relationships Between Early‐Life Stress, Later‐Life Inflammation and Mortality Risk in Skeletal Remains
Authors: Wigley B. R. , Stillman E. C. , Craig‐Atkins E.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This paper explores conflicting perspectives on the adaptive significance of phenotypic plasticity during fetal and early postnatal development and the impact that stressors experienced during this critical early‐life period have on later‐life morbidity and mortality risk.

Methods

The sample (n = 216) comprised archeologically‐recovered human skeletons. A geometric morphometric (GM) method was employed to evaluate first permanent molar (M1) fluctuating asymmetry (FA) and provide a proxy for early‐life stress. Shifts in later‐life physiology were inferred through two inflammatory lesions: periosteal new bone formation (PNBF) and periodontal disease (PD). To explore mortality risk, age‐at‐death was estimated through dental development for skeletally immature individuals (n = 104) and through senescent skeletal changes for mature skeletons (n = 112).

Results

Significant differences were found in M1 FA between groups, with the immature cohort associated with elevated FA. Within‐group analysis revealed age‐at‐death in the immature group had a significant positive relationship with M1 FA and PD presence. In the mature group, alongside sex and the co‐occurrence of PD and PNBF, FA was a significant predictor of a shorter life. Higher FA was also associated with active and bilaterally expressed PNBF.

Conclusions

It is theorized that early‐life stress, if survived, programmed a hyperinflammatory response to environmentally‐mediated physiological perturbations which increased the chances of survival during subsequent development but also elevated later‐life mortality risk. Findings demonstrate a complicated relationship between developmental stress and physiological shifts that helps to illustrate the adaptive significance of early‐life programming and support the Thrifty Phenotype hypothesis.
Mitigating Diffusion‐Induced Intragranular Cracking in Single‐Crystal LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 via Extended Solid‐Solution Behavior
Authors: Shin Hyeonsol , Ndukwe Agwu , Kim Taemin , Lee Ji Hoon , Li Guanchen , Lee Hyeon Jeong
Published: February 2025

Single‐crystal cathodes have been investigated for their inherent resistance to intergranular cracking due to the absence of grain boundaries. However, these materials exhibit significant intragranular cracking, and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we examined the impact of extended solid‐solution reactions on mitigating crack formation in magnesium‐doped single‐crystal LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (Mg‐SC‐LNMO) cathodes. With Mg acting as a structural pillar, the overall volume change was reduced by nearly 50 %, the two‐phase reaction was effectively suppressed, and the Li‐ion diffusion coefficient was doubled. Continuum modeling based on experimental observations demonstrates that Mg doping significantly reduces the internal stress induced by lithium diffusion, thereby preserving the mechanical integrity of single‐crystal LNMO. This improvement leads to enhanced electrochemical performance and durability. Our study provides new insights into mechanically robust single‐crystal cathodes and proposes a design strategy to improve the durability of next‐generation Li‐ion batteries.
Selbstoptimierende Kobalt Wolframoxid Elektrokatalysatoren zur verbesserten Sauerstoffentwicklung in alkalischen Medien
Authors: Nickel Christean , Troglauer David Leander , Dallos Zsolt , Abid Dhouha , Sowa Kevin , Cichocka Magdalena Ola , Kolb Ute , Mashtakov Boris , Feizi Mohazzab Bahareh , Han Shikang , Prädel Leon , Ci Lijie , Li Deping , Lin Xiaohang , Hua Minghao , Liu Rongji , Gao Dandan
Published: February 2025

Selbstoptimierende Mischmetalloxide stellen eine neue Klasse von Elektrokatalysatoren für die fortgeschrittene Sauerstoffentwicklungsreaktion (OER) dar. Hier berichten wir über selbstorganisierte Kobalt‐Wolframoxid‐Nanostrukturen auf einem im Labor synthetisierten Kupferoxidsubstrat mittels eines einstufigen Depositionsansatz. Das entstandene Komposit weist ein bemerkenswertes Selbstoptimierungsverhalten auf, das sich in deutlich reduzierten Überspannungen und erhöhten Stromdichten zeigt, begleitet von einer erheblichen Steigerung der OER‐Kinetik, der elektrokatalytisch aktiven Oberfläche, der Oberflächenbenetzbarkeit und der elektrischen Leitfähigkeit. Unter Betriebsbedingungen erweisen sich die in situ gebildeten oxidierten Kobalt‐Spezies durch eine Grenzflächenumstrukturierung des Elektrokatalysators als die eigentlichen aktiven Zentren. Ergänzende Dichtefunktionaltheorie‐Berechnungen (DFT) zeigen außerdem die Bildung von *OOH‐Zwischenprodukten als geschwindigkeitsbestimmenden Schritt der OER und heben die adaptive Bindung von Sauerstoffzwischenprodukten hervor, die während des OER‐Prozesses von Wolfram‐ zu Kobalt‐Zentren übergeht. Unsere Studie liefert ein grundlegendes Verständnis des Selbstoptimierungsmechanismus und fördert das wissensbasierte Design effizienter wasserspaltender Elektrokatalysatoren.
Practical High‐Voltage Lithium Metal Batteries Enabled by the In‐Situ Fabrication of Main‐Chain Fluorinated Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Zhu Jie , Bian Peiran , Sun Guolin , Zhang Jinping , Lou Genglin , Song Xingchen , Zhao Ruiqi , Liu Jie , Xu Nuo , Li Aihong , Wan Xiangjian , Ma Yanfeng , Li Chenxi , Zhang Hongtao , Chen Yongsheng
Published: February 2025

Polymer electrolytes are crucial for advancing safe, high‐energy‐density lithium batteries. Therefore, such electrolytes must possess stability with high‐voltage cathodes and lithium metal, ensuring efficient interfacial contact and high room‐temperature ionic conductivity. In this study, we present a novel main‐chain fluorinated polymer electrolyte, FEOP, synthesized through cationic ring‐opening polymerization. FEOP integrates high oxidative resistance of polytetrafluoroethylene with lithium metal compatibility of polyether, achieving an oxidation potential of up to 5.6 V and an anion‐involved solvation structure. The exceptional stability enables NCM811 cells to deliver an impressive cycling life of 2000 cycles at 1 C up to 4.5 V. Furthermore, at ultra‐high cut‐off voltages of 4.7 and 4.9 V, both NCM811 and LNMO cells demonstrate stable cycling over 700 cycles, marking the longest lifespan for polymer‐based batteries under these challenging conditions. Moreover, 4.7 V solid‐state lithium metal pouch cells incorporating FEOP exhibit an energy density of 405.3 Wh kg−1 and maintain stable cycling over 70 cycles, while successfully passing industry‐standard nail penetration tests. Moreover, FEOP demonstrate excellent compatibility with ultra‐high‐loading electrode (70 mg cm−2), achieving an exceptional areal capacity of 16.2 mAh cm−2. These results provide a solid foundation for designing practical electrolytes that enable next‐generation high‐energy‐density and high‐safety solid‐state batteries.
Efficient Infrared‐Detecting Organic Semiconductors Featuring a Tetraheterocyclic Core with Reduced Ionization Potential
Authors: Hou Huiqing , Wang Wei , Li Tengfei , Zhang Zhenzhen , Miao Xiaodan , Cai Guilong , Lu Xinhui , Yi Yuanping , Lin Yuze
Published: February 2025

Infrared organic semiconductors are crucial in organic optoelectronics, yet high‐performance materials with photoresponse beyond 1.1 μm (the limit of crystalline silicon) remain scarce due to the limit of building blocks including strong electron‐donating units. Here, we report an asymmetric tetraheterocycle (TPCT) with a reduced ionization potential of 6.18 eV relative to those reported dithiophene‐based electron‐donating blocks, and TPCT‐2F and TPCTO‐2F constructed with TPCT as the core exhibit absorption onset up to 1 μm and 1.4 μm, respectively. Especially, TPCTO‐2F possesses a narrow band gap of 1.00 eV and displays a small Urbach energy of 22.0 meV comparable to or even lower than those of some typical inorganic short‐wave infrared (SWIR) semiconductors (13–44 meV). The organic photodetectors (OPDs) based on TPCT‐2F achieve a peak detectivity (D*) of 2.2×1013 Jones at 810 nm under zero bias, among the highest values for reported OPDs and on par with commercial silicon photodetectors. Impressively, TPCTO‐2F‐based OPDs demonstrate a wide response from 0.3 to 1.4 μm and high D* comparable to germanium photodetector at wavelengths <1.2 μm with a maximum D* of 2.3×1011 Jones at 1.06 μm in SWIR region.
From Autonomous Chemical Micro‐/Nanomotors to Rationally Engineered Bio‐Interfaces
Authors: Ding Miaomiao , Chen Bin , Wilson Daniela A. , Tu Yingfeng , Peng Fei
Published: February 2025

Developing micro‐/nanomotors that convert a chemical energy input into a local gradient field and motion is an appealing but challenging task that holds particular promise for the intersection of materials and nanoengineering. Over the past two decades, remarkable advancements have refined these out‐of‐equilibrium chemically powered micro‐/nanomotors, enabling them to orchestrate in situ chemical transformations that dynamically change local environments. The ionic products, radicals, gases, and electric fields from these active materials reshape the microenvironment, paving the way for ecofriendly disease interventions. This review discusses the state‐of‐the‐art reactions that propel these energy‐consuming micro‐/nanomotors and elucidates the emerging implications of their products on biological systems. Particular emphasis has been placed on their potential for neural modulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulation, synergistic tumor therapy, antibacterial strategies, and tissue regeneration. Collectively, these sketches provide a landscape of therapeutic modalities, heralding a new era of biomedicine. By harnessing the in situ product field of this active matter, we envision a paradigm shift toward active therapies that transcend conventional approaches, promising breakthroughs in disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Achieving Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence in Solution Phase from Carbon Dots Confined in Nanocrystals
Authors: He Xiaoyan , Huang Weilan , Zheng Yihao , Xu Xiaokai , Wei Haopeng , Liang Ping , Yang Xianfeng , Hu Chaofan , Zhang Xuejie , Lei Bingfu , Zhang Xingcai , Ye Jianting , Liu Yingliang , Zhuang Jianle
Published: February 2025

Carbon dots (CDs) have attracted growing interest in the construction of room‐temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials. However, in the solution phase of CDs, it is still challenging to obtain efficient and stable phosphorescent emission due to the intense quenching effect by dissolved oxygen and solvent molecules. Herein, we report robust phosphorescence in the solution phase, achieved by encapsulating citrate‐derived CDs into NaYF4 nanocrystals via a one‐step method of high‐temperature coprecipitation. Combined characterizations show that the triplet emission from CDs is related to the abundance of C=O in the CDs, the formation of ionic‐bond networks around the CDs, and the spatial confinement and quenching inhibition effects of NaYF4 nanocrystals. Notably, the transition of CDs@NaYF4 from hydrophobicity to hydrophilicity can be easily achieved by simple surface modulation of NaYF4 nanocrystals, which allows the RTP of CDs to be maintained in either polar or nonpolar solvents. In addition, CDs@NaYF4 exhibits stable afterglow in different pH environments, suggesting its excellent stability. Finally, we demonstrated the application of CDs@NaYF4 in 3D printing, oily anti‐counterfeiting patterns, and cell imaging. Our work can serve the controllable preparation of solution‐phase RTP materials and their various applications.
Antimicrobial Phenolic Materials: From Assembly to Function
Authors: Xu Wanjun , Lin Zhixing , Cortez‐Jugo Christina , Qiao Greg G. , Caruso Frank
Published: February 2025

Infectious diseases pose considerable challenges to public health, particularly with the rise of multidrug‐resistant pathogens that globally cause high mortality rates. These pathogens can persist on surfaces and spread in public and healthcare settings. Advances have been made in developing antimicrobial materials to reduce the transmission of pathogens, including materials composed of naturally sourced polyphenols and their derivatives, which exhibit antimicrobial potency, broad‐spectrum activity, and a lower likelihood of promoting resistance. This review provides an overview of recent advances in the fabrication of antimicrobial phenolic biomaterials, where natural phenolic compounds act as active antimicrobial agents or encapsulate other antimicrobial agents (e.g., metal ions, antimicrobial peptides, natural biopolymers). Various forms of phenolic biomaterials synthesized through these two strategies, including antimicrobial particles, capsules, hydrogels, and coatings, are summarized, with a focus on their application in wound healing, bone repair and regeneration, oral health, and antimicrobial coatings for medical devices. The potential of these advanced phenolic biomaterials provides a promising therapeutic approach for combating antimicrobial‐resistant infections and reducing microbial transmission.
Unlocking the Power of Photothermal Agents: A Universal Platform for Smart Immune NIR‐Agonists for Precise Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang Hao , Xu Xiaona , Cao Yahui , Chen Zihui , Liu Weiqing , Lu Xinyi , Li Changhua
Published: February 2025

Selective ablation of tumor cells allows safe eradication, thereby minimizing off‐target damage, while specifically inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD) rather than commonly non‐immunogenic apoptosis of tumor cells enables activation of anti‐tumor immune response against residual cancer cells, including metastatic lesions. Herein, we present a general strategy leveraging a novel photothermal agent (PTA) that concomitantly enables precise tumor killing and activation of anti‐tumor immunity. The unique PTA scaffold exhibits unexpected inherent endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐targeting capability and potent near‐infrared (NIR) photothermal activity, inducing NIR‐controlled immunogenic pyroptosis in various tumor cell lines via targeting ER stress in an oxygen‐independent manner. Moreover, both ER‐targeting and NIR‐activity of our scaffold can be modulated on demand by chemical caging/uncaging, allowing quick activation with diverse biological and bioorthogonal molecular triggers. The potency of this universal platform is demonstrated via its application to develop a membrane protein‐activatable NIR‐agonist that selectively activates ICD in tumor sites while priming anti‐tumor immunity, minimizing off‐target effects and enhancing efficacy against mouse breast tumors. This versatile approach could lead to customization of various personalized and effective immune NIR‐agonists for specific photoimmunotherapy applicable to diverse solid tumors.
Dynamic Kinetic Resolution Allows Control of Remote Stereochemistry in Asymmetric Hydrogen Borrowing Alkylation
Authors: Cheang Daniella , Crompton Jessica , Amer Mostafa , Battiti Francisco , Skjelstad Bastian , Christensen Kirsten , Barton Peter , Duarte Fernanda , Donohoe Timothy James
Published: February 2025

A catalytic asymmetric method for the synthesis of γ‐substituted ketones via hydrogen borrowing alkylation of both racemic linear precursors and 1,5‐diols is described. The base mediated racemization of an intermediate cyclohexenone facilities a dynamic kinetic resolution, affording highly enantioenriched cyclohexanes in excellent yields, which could be further functionalized by removal of the Ph* group. DFT modelling revealed the mode of enantioinduction to be a stepwise process comprising of a hydride transfer and a coordination change to a π‐allylic enolate complex with the iridium catalyst.
In Situ Synthesis of CNT‐Bridged UiO‐66‐(COOH)2 on Polytetrafluoroethylene Porous Membrane for Portable Hemodialysis
Authors: Jiang Shuaiyang , Liu Ya , Liu Yulu , Wang Dongfang , Wang Xiaofeng , Li Qian
Published: February 2025

A portable home hemodialysis device is a miniaturized and easy‐to‐operate medical apparatus designed for patients with chronic kidney disease, enabling them to conveniently perform hemodialysis at home or while traveling. However, it imposes high requirements on the dialysis membrane in terms of dialysis efficiency, adsorption capacity, and blood compatibility. In this study, the composite membrane was fabricated through electrospinning, which is an in situ synthesis of carbon nano tube (CNT)bridged UiO66(COOH)2 on PTFE fibers. UiO66(COOH)2 increased the adsorption site by association with CNT, and achieved the adsorption of creatinine by hydrogen bond and π bond, which greatly reduced the usage of dialysis solution. UiO66(COOH)2 and CNT were first combined for creatinine adsorption, and its maximum static adsorption capacity was 66 mg/g. During the dialysis, the yielding membrane showed a creatinine clearance of 64.89% and a resistance protein rate of more than 98%. Compared with pure PTFE dialysis membrane, the amount of dialysate used to achieve the same dialysis effect was merely 1/10. Furthermore, the membrane has a hemolysis rate of 2% and a low platelet adhesion rate, which shows excellent blood compatibility. Therefore, the dialysis membrane prepared in this study is expected to promote the development of portable home hemodialysis devices.