bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacial Mediation by Sn And S Vacancies of p‐SnS/n‐ZnIn2S4 for Enhancing Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution with New Scheme of Type‐I Heterojunction
Authors: Jia Xiaofang , Lu Yue , Du Kunrong , Zheng Huibin , Mao Liang , Li Hao , Ma Zhaoyu , Wang Rongming , Zhang Junying
Published: August 2023

The construction of interfacial electric field (IEF) in semiconductor heterojunction is of great significance in boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution through efficient separation of photogenerated charge‐carriers. However, the exploitation of IEF in type‐I heterojunction has not been proposed for designing photocatalysts. Herein, based on the density functional theory prediction, p‐SnS with different work functions modulated by Sn‐vacancy are compounded with n‐ZnIn2S4 containing S‐vacancy to form type‐I heterojunction. The optimized SnS/ZnIn2S4 photocatalyst without co‐catalysts exhibits an impressive hydrogen evolution rate of 22.75 mmol g−1 h−1, 6.23 times of ZnIn2S4. Systematic investigations reveal that the interfacial Sn‐S bond acts as a transport channel that accelerates the interface charge‐carriers transfer under the promotion of IEF originating from the significant Fermi level difference. A large difference in the surface photovoltage signal of SnS/ZnIn2S4 and ZnIn2S4 is achieved from effective photogenerated charge‐carriers separation by IEF. The new p‐n type‐I scheme of SnS/ZnIn2S4 induced by the interfacial mediation can separate the photogenerated charge‐carriers, and retain the highly reductive electrons of ZnIn2S4 for hydrogen evolution, overcoming the disadvantage of reduction potential decline in the typical type‐I scheme. This study will afford a new theoretical basis for the achievement of high‐efficiency photocatalytic hydrogen evolution through interface modulation.
Biopolymer Photonics: From Nature to Nanotechnology
Authors: Vogler‐Neuling Viola V. , Saba Matthias , Gunkel Ilja , Zoppe Justin O. , Steiner Ullrich , Wilts Bodo D. , Dodero Andrea
Published: August 2023

Biopolymers offer vast potential for renewable and sustainable devices. While nature mastered the use of biopolymers to create highly complex 3D structures and optimized their photonic response, artificially created structures still lack nature's diversity. To bridge this gap between natural and engineered biophotonic structures, fundamental questions such as the natural formation process and the interplay of structural order and disorder must be answered. Herein, biological photonic structures and their characterization techniques are reviewed, focusing on those structures not yet artificially manufactured. Then, employed and potential nanofabrication strategies for biomimetic, bio‐templated, and artificially created biopolymeric photonic structures are discussed. The discussion is extended to responsive biopolymer photonic structures and hybrid structures. Last, future fundamental physics, chemistry, and nanotechnology challenges related to biopolymer photonics are foreseen.
Recent Advances and Challenges of Metal‐Based Materials for Solar Steam Generation
Authors: Yu Bin , Zhang Ying , Wang Yan , Zhang Zhonghua
Published: August 2023

Global energy and environmental problems are becoming increasingly prominent, and the shortage of freshwater resources has been plaguing many countries and regions in the world. Solar steam generation (SSG) has emerged as a green, low‐cost and efficient strategy for freshwater production, which has attracted enormous attention in recent years. Furthermore, various photothermal materials and structural designs for the preparation of efficient SSG systems have been widely reported. Among them, metal‐based photothermal materials are abundant, and the exploration on metal‐based SSG systems is one of the important research directions. In this review, the basic concepts and design objectives of current metal‐based SSG systems are first introduced, as well as advances in the recent development of metal‐based photothermal materials, including photothermal mechanisms, and preparation methods. The evaluation criteria of the SSG system are further described. Then the development of metal‐based SSG systems is summarized in terms of structural design, functional modules (light absorption, thermal management, water transport, salt rejection, etc.), and potential applications (wastewater treatment, sterilization and other fields). Finally, the main challenges and future prospects of metal‐based SSG systems in basic research and practical applications are emphasized.
Flexible and Stretchable Electrochemical Sensors for Biological Monitoring
Authors: Zhao Yi , Jin Kai‐Qi , Li Jing‐Du , Sheng Kai‐Kai , Huang Wei‐Hua , Liu Yan‐Ling
Published: August 2023

The rise of flexible and stretchable electronics has revolutionized biosensor techniques for probing biological systems. Particularly, flexible and stretchable electrochemical sensors (FSECSs) enable the in situ quantification of numerous biochemical molecules in different biological entities owing to their exceptional sensitivity, fast response, and easy miniaturization. Over the past decade, the fabrication and application of FSECSs have significantly progressed. This review highlights key developments in electrode fabrication and FSECSs functionalization. It delves into the electrochemical sensing of various biomarkers, including metabolites, electrolytes, signaling molecules, and neurotransmitters from biological systems, encompassing the outer epidermis, tissues/organs in vitro and in vivo, and living cells. Finally, considering electrode preparation and biological applications, current challenges and future opportunities for FSECSs are discussed.
Molecular Design of Multifunctional Integrated Polymer Semiconductors with Intrinsic Stretchability, High Mobility, and Intense Luminescence
Authors: Chen Jinyang , Zhu Mingliang , Shao Mingchao , Shi Wenkang , Yang Jie , Kuang Junhua , Wang Chengyu , Gao Wenqiang , Zhu Can , Meng Ruifang , Yang Zhao , Shao Zhihao , Zhao Zhiyuan , Guo Yunlong , Liu Yunqi
Published: August 2023

Multifunctional semiconductors integrating unique optical, electrical, mechanical, and chemical characteristics are critical to advanced and emerging manufacturing technologies. However, due to the trade‐off challenges in design principles, fabrication difficulty, defects in existing materials, etc., realizing multiple functions through multistage manufacturing is quite taxing. Here, an effective molecular design strategy is established to prepare a class of multifunctional integrated polymer semiconductors. The pyridal[1,2,3]triazole‐thiophene co‐structured tetrapolymers with full‐backbone coplanarity and considerable inter/intramolecular noncovalent interactions facilitate short‐range order and excellent (re)organization capability of polymer chains, providing stress‐dissipation sites in the film state. The regioregular multicomponent conjugated backbones contribute to dense packing, excellent crystallinity, high crack onset strain over 100%, efficient carrier transport with mobilities exceeding 1 cm2 V−1 s−1, and controllable near‐infrared luminescence. Furthermore, a homologous blending strategy is proposed to further enhance the color‐tunable luminescent properties of polymers while effectively retaining mechanical and electrical properties. The blended system exhibits excellent field‐effect mobility (µ) and quantum yield (Φ), reaching a record Φ · µ of 0.43 cm2 V−1 s−1. Overall, the proposed strategy facilitates a rational design of regioregular semicrystalline intrinsically stretchable polymers with high mobility and color‐tunable intense luminescence, providing unique possibilities for the development of multifunctional integrated semiconductors in organic optoelectronics.
Interface Charge Transfer in MXenes/Graphene Heterostructures for Ultrafast Photonics
Authors: Liu Yang , Xu Yingtian , Xu Chongyang , Chen Jiahao , Liu Heng , Zhang He , Jin Liang , Fan Jie , Zou Yonggang , Ma Xiaohui
Published: August 2023

Two‐dimensional (2D) transition‐metal carbides, nitrides, and carbocyanides, known as MXenes, have attracted tremendous attention in photonics and electronics because of their promising optical, electrical, and mechanical properties. However, the potential of MXenes‐based heterostructures for ultrafast photonics has not yet been explored. In this study, a Ti3C2Tx/graphene vertical heterostructure (TG‐VHS), an excellent saturable absorber (SA), is successfully used to generate femtosecond laser pulses via passive mode‐locking. The modulation depth of the TG‐VHS is measured to be 28%, which is ≈12.7 and 1.5 times higher than that of Ti3C2Tx MXenes and graphene, respectively. Density functional theory calculations show that various heterostructure systems are formed owing to the presence of various functional groups in Ti3C2Tx, and multiple charge transfers significantly enhance the nonlinear optical characteristics of TG‐VHS. Moreover, utilizing TG‐VHS as the SA, a stable mode‐locked operation with a pulse duration as short as 356 fs at a wavelength of 1559.16 nm is achieved; harmonic mode‐locking with the highest repetition rate of 603.1 MHz is also obtained. This study provides an important strategy for developing VHS SA for ultrafast pulse fiber lasers and opens new perspectives for designing advanced MXenes‐based photonic devices.
Laponite Lights Calcium Flickers by Reprogramming Lysosomes to Steer DC Migration for An Effective Antiviral CD8+ T‐Cell Response
Authors: Li Chenyan , Hou Yangyang , He Minwei , Lv Liping , Zhang Yulong , Sun Sujing , Zhao Yan , Liu Xingzhao , Ma Ping , Wang Xiaohui , Zhou Qianqian , Zhan Linsheng
Published: August 2023

Immunotherapy using dendritic cell (DC)‐based vaccination is an established approach for treating cancer and infectious diseases; however, its efficacy is limited. Therefore, targeting the restricted migratory capacity of the DCs may enhance their therapeutic efficacy. In this study, the effect of laponite (Lap) on DCs, which can be internalized into lysosomes and induce cytoskeletal reorganization via the lysosomal reprogramming–calcium flicker axis, is evaluated, and it is found that Lap dramatically improves the in vivo homing ability of these DCs to lymphoid tissues. In addition, Lap improves antigen cross‐presentation by DCs and increases DC‐T‐cell synapse formation, resulting in enhanced antigen‐specific CD8+ T‐cell activation. Furthermore, a Lap‐modified cocktail (Lap@cytokine cocktail [C‐C]) is constructed based on the gold standard, C‐C, as an adjuvant for DC vaccines. Lap@C‐C‐adjuvanted DCs initiated a robust cytotoxic T‐cell immune response against hepatitis B infection, resulting in > 99.6% clearance of viral DNA and successful hepatitis B surface antigen seroconversion. These findings highlight the potential value of Lap as a DC vaccine adjuvant that can regulate DC homing, and provide a basis for the development of effective DC vaccines.
A Redox‐Mediated Iron‐Air Fuel Cell for Sustainable and Scalable Power Generation
Authors: Gao Mengqi , Song Yuxi , Zou Xuan , Salla Manohar , Zhang Hang , Wang Zhiyu , Huang Shiqiang , Wang Qing
Published: August 2023

Pursuing carbon neutrality has invigorated extensive investigations into sustainable and cost‐effective power sources. Iron‐air batteries (IAB) have emerged as a promising option due to their high energy density, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, conventional IABs grapple with issues such as electrode passivation, low round‐trip energy efficiency, and parasitic hydrogen evolution. This study introduces a redox‐mediated iron‐air fuel cell (RM‐IAFC) to surmount these limitations. The RM‐IAFC employs a pair of redox mediators, respectively, in anolyte and catholyte tanks, enabling the iron oxidation and oxygen reduction reaction processes to be liberated from the electrodes. This configuration decouples energy storage and power generation, allowing fast refueling and offering operation flexibility and scalability while eliminating the need for expensive catalysts. With these salient features, the RM‐IAFC paves the way for sustainable and scalable power generation, particularly for stationary applications.
On‐farm response of inbred and hybrid rice cultivars to furrow irrigation
Authors: Spencer Gene Dave , Gore Jeff , Mills Brian E. , Gholson Drew M. , Krutz Larry Jason
Published: August 2023

Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) water management reduces irrigation demand compared to a continuous flood in the drill‐seeded, delayed‐flood rice (Oryza sativa L.) production system, but land preparation is time consuming and labor intensive. This research was conducted to determine whether rice grown in a furrow‐irrigated (ROW), raised seedbed system has similar water requirements and profit expectations to AWD. The effects of growing either inbred or hybrid rice under AWD or furrow irrigation management on water applied, grain yield, and net returns were investigated on paired production fields in the Delta region of Mississippi. For both inbred and hybrid rice lines, water applied averaged 587 and 565 mm, respectively, and did not differ between ROW and AWD production (p > 0.05). Compared to AWD, furrow‐irrigating inbred rice cultivars either maintained or decreased yield 16% (p = 0.0207). Conversely, seeding hybrid rice in ROW systems reduced yield 7% regardless of year (p = 0.0083). For both inbred and hybrid rice cultivars, transitioning from AWD to furrow irrigation decreased the average net returns $9.80 and $124.02 ha−1, respectively, and ranged from +$94.48 to −$281.98 ha−1 over 3 years and three rice prices. Transitioning from AWD to an ROW rice will likely have no effect on freshwater demand but will introduce substantial agronomic and economic risk to the production system.
Investigation of the effects of ternary deep eutectic solvent composition on pretreatment of sorghum stover
Authors: Wang Yunxuan , Ryu Jiae , Kim Kwang Ho , Meng Xianzhi , Pu Yunqiao , Tian Yang , Eudes Aymerick , Leem Gyu , Ragauskas Arthur J. , Yoo Chang Geun
Published: August 2023

Biomass‐derived deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have been introduced as promising pretreatment and fractionation solvents because of their mild processing conditions, easy synthesis, and green solvent components from biomass. In recent DES studies, solvent‐based third constituents like water, ethanol, and others improve the processibility of typical binary DESs. However, the impacts of these components are not well understood. Here, two solvent‐based constituents, including water and ethylene glycol, were applied to 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHBA)‐based DES system for improving the conversion efficiency of cellulose‐rich fraction and the properties of lignin fraction. Chemical composition, enzymatic digestibility, degree of polymerization of cellulose and physicochemical properties of lignin were used to evaluate the impact of each third constituent on biomass processing. Ternary ChCl‐DHBA DESs exhibited better performances in delignification, fermentable sugar production, and preservation of β‐O‐4 ether linkage in lignin compared with binary ChCl‐DHBA DES.
Genome engineering allows selective conversions of terephthalaldehyde to multiple valorized products in bacterial cells
Authors: Dickey Roman M. , Jones Michaela A. , Butler Neil D. , Govil Ishika , Kunjapur Aditya M.
Published: August 2023

Deconstruction of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic waste generates opportunities for valorization to alternative products. We recently designed an enzymatic cascade that could produce terephthalaldehyde (TPAL) from terephthalic acid. Here, we showed that the addition of TPAL to growing cultures of Escherichia coli wild‐type strain MG1655 and an engineered strain for reduced aromatic aldehyde reduction (RARE) strain resulted in substantial reduction. We then investigated if we could mitigate this reduction using multiplex automatable genome engineering (MAGE) to create an E. coli strain with 10 additional knockouts in RARE. Encouragingly, we found this newly engineered strain enabled a 2.5‐fold higher retention of TPAL over RARE after 24 h. We applied this new strain for the production of para‐xylylenediamine (pXYL) and observed a 6.8‐fold increase in pXYL titer compared with RARE. Overall, our study demonstrates the potential of TPAL as a versatile intermediate in microbial biosynthesis of chemicals that derived from waste PET.
Lead Sulfide Quantum Dots for Synaptic Transistors: Modulating the Learning Timescale with Ligands
Authors: Tran Karolina , Wang Han , Pieters Meike , Loi Maria Antonietta
Published: August 2023

One of the emerging paradigms to resolve pressing issues of modern computing electronics, such as limits in miniaturization and excessive energy consumption, takes inspiration from the biological brain and is therefore expected to display some of its properties, such as energy efficiency and effective learning. Moreover, one of the brain's remarkable properties is its ability to process complex information by resolving it on different timescales. In synapse‐emulating artificial devices, some form of memory (e.g., hysteresis in current–voltage characteristics) is required. One of the important characteristics of biological synapses is the coexistence of short‐ and long‐term memory, also called plasticity. However, a broader exploration of memory at multiple timescales in materials remains limited. Herein, the first example of synaptic transistors utilizing colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) as active material is reported. It is demonstrated that PbS‐CQDs, with metal halide and perovskite‐like ligands, are ideal as an active material for synaptic transistors exhibiting both short‐ and long‐term plasticity. Most interestingly, by changing the chemistry of the quantum dot outer monolayer, a drastic change in the temporal response of the learning is observed, demonstrating the possibility of engineering materials exhibiting learning at multiple timescales, similar to the biological synapses.
High‐Speed Rotary Motor for Multidomain Operations Driven by Resonant Dielectric Elastomer Actuators
Authors: Du Boyuan , Tang Chao , Jiang Songwen , Wang Yixin , Liu Xin-Jun , Zhao Huichan
Published: August 2023

The motion of rotation is ubiquitous in daily life and industry. Compared with electromagnet motors, smart‐material‐based rotary motors may exhibit more flexibility, robustness, and adaptability. Herein, a lightweight, compact dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) rotary motor with remarkable performance is reported. The motor is driven by a multilayered, slightly‐prestretched (<10%) dielectric elastomer (DE) composite membrane which consists of low‐loss silicone as the DE layers and single‐walled carbon nanotube as electrodes. When operating at frequencies around its resonance, it achieves a maximum rotating speed of 2,850 rpm (to the best of the authors' knowledge, the fastest among all reported DEA rotary motors so far), torque of 0.655 mN m, and power of 34.7 mW with optimized transmission parameters. To demonstrate the motor's practical application, an off‐the‐shelf air vehicle propeller is driven by the motor, and a lift of 26 mN (1.54 times the DEA membrane's own weight) is obtained. An underwater robot driven by a water propeller is designed and a high speed of 175 mm s−1 (1.58 bl s−1) is obtained. The DEA rotary motor of this work paves a new way for driving agile robots in multidomain operations.
Impact of COVID‐19 on occupational injuries and illnesses among nursing care facility workers: Analysis of California workers' compensation data, 2019–2021
Authors: Lee Soo‐Jeong , Yun Younghee , Hwang Jeehyun , Jong Soson
Published: August 2023

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic greatly affected healthcare workers, both physically and psychologically, by increasing their workload and stress. This may also have increased their risk of occupational injuries. This study analyzed workers' compensation (WC) claims among California nursing care facility workers during 2019–2021, to assess the impact of the pandemic on occupational injury risk.

Methods

This study used data from the California Workers' Compensation Information System. WC claims in prepandemic and pandemic periods were described and compared between nursing care facilities and other settings. Nursing facility cases were described by demographic, job, and injury characteristics.

Results

In 2019–2021, we identified 41,134 claims as nursing facility cases in California. Annual claims increased by 64.6% from 2019 to 2020 and then decreased in 2021, returning to levels similar to pre‐COVID. In contrast, non‐healthcare settings had decreases in claims during the pandemic. COVID‐related claims accounted for 50.5% of claims in nursing facilities in 2020–2021; this proportion was much higher compared with other healthcare (35.7%) or nonhealthcare settings (14.3%). Non‐COVID claims decreased during the pandemic but mental disorder or stress claims increased in nursing facilities, particularly in 2020 (+42.5%).

Conclusions

Our findings show that nursing care facilities were more severely affected by the pandemic than other settings. We did not find evidence of an increased risk of occupational injuries during the pandemic, except for increased claims for stress or mental disorders. Our findings indicate a clear need to address psychological stress and mental health among nursing facility workers during a pandemic.
Abnormal Thalamo–Cortical Interactions in Overlapping Communities of Migraine: An Edge Functional Connectivity Study
Authors: Dai Wei , Qiu Enchao , Lin Xiaoxue , Zhang Shuhua , Zhang Mingjie , Han Xun , Jia Zhihua , Su Hui , Bian Xiangbing , Zang Xiao , Li Meng , Zhang Qingkui , Ran Ye , Gong Zihua , Wang Xiaolin , Wang Rongfei , Tian Lixia , Dong Zhao , Yu Shengyuan
Published: August 2023

Objective

Migraine has been demonstrated to exhibit abnormal functional connectivity of large‐scale brain networks, which is closely associated with its pathophysiology and has not yet been explored by edge functional connectivity. We used an edge‐centric approach combined with motif analysis to evaluate higher‐order communication patterns of brain networks in migraine.

Methods

We investigated edge‐centric metrics in 108 interictal migraine patients and 71 healthy controls. We parcellated the brain into networks using independent component analysis. We applied edge graph construction, k‐means clustering, community overlap detection, graph‐theory‐based evaluations, and clinical correlation analysis. We conducted motif analysis to explore the interactions among regions, and a classification model to test the specificity of edge‐centric results.

Results

The normalized entropy of lateral thalamus was significantly increased in migraine, which was positively correlated with the baseline headache duration, and negatively correlated with headache duration reduction following preventive medications at 3‐month follow‐up. Network‐wise entropy of the sensorimotor network was significantly elevated in migraine. The community similarity between lateral thalamus and postcentral gyrus was enhanced in migraine. Migraine patients showed overrepresented L‐shape and diverse motifs, and underrepresented forked motifs with lateral thalamus serving as the reference node. Furthermore, migraine patients presented with overrepresented L‐shape triads, where the postcentral gyrus shared different edges with the lateral thalamus. The classification model showed that entropy of the lateral thalamus had the highest discriminative power, with an area under the curve of 0.86.

Interpretation

Our findings indicated an abnormal higher‐order thalamo–cortical communication pattern in migraine patients. The thalamo–cortical–somatosensory disturbance of concerted working may potentially lead to aberrant information flow and deficit pain processing of migraine. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:1168–1181
Enzymatic Oxy‐ and Amino‐Functionalization in Biocatalytic Cascade Synthesis: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
Authors: Grandi Eleonora , Feyza Özgen Fatma , Schmidt Sandy , Poelarends Gerrit J.
Published: August 2023

Biocatalytic cascades are a powerful tool for building complex molecules containing oxygen and nitrogen functionalities. Moreover, the combination of multiple enzymes in one pot offers the possibility to minimize downstream processing and waste production. In this review, we illustrate various recent efforts in the development of multi‐step syntheses involving C−O and C−N bond‐forming enzymes to produce high value‐added compounds, such as pharmaceuticals and polymer precursors. Both in vitro and in vivo examples are discussed, revealing the respective advantages and drawbacks. The use of engineered enzymes to boost the cascades outcome is also addressed and current co‐substrate and cofactor recycling strategies are presented, highlighting the importance of atom economy. Finally, tools to overcome current challenges for multi‐enzymatic oxy‐ and amino‐functionalization reactions are discussed, including flow systems with immobilized biocatalysts and cascades in confined nanomaterials.
Breaking K+ Concentration Limit on Cu Nanoneedles for Acidic Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to Multi‐Carbon Products
Authors: Zi Xin , Zhou Yajiao , Zhu Li , Chen Qin , Tan Yao , Wang Xiqing , Sayed Mahmoud , Pensa Evangelina , Geioushy Ramadan A. , Liu Kang , Fu Junwei , Cortés Emiliano , Liu Min
Published: August 2023

Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) to multi‐carbon products (C2+) in acidic electrolyte is one of the most advanced routes for tackling our current climate and energy crisis. However, the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the poor selectivity towards the valuable C2+ products are the major obstacles for the upscaling of these technologies. High local potassium ions (K+) concentration at the cathode's surface can inhibit proton‐diffusion and accelerate the desirable carbon‐carbon (C−C) coupling process. However, the solubility limit of potassium salts in bulk solution constrains the maximum achievable K+ concentration at the reaction sites and thus the overall acidic CO2RR performance of most electrocatalysts. In this work, we demonstrate that Cu nanoneedles induce ultrahigh local K+ concentrations (4.22 M) – thus breaking the K+ solubility limit (3.5 M) – which enables a highly efficient CO2RR in 3 M KCl at pH=1. As a result, a Faradaic efficiency of 90.69±2.15 % for C2+ (FEC2+) can be achieved at 1400 mA.cm−2, simultaneous with a single pass carbon efficiency (SPCE) of 25.49±0.82 % at a CO2 flow rate of 7 sccm.
Prussian Blue‐Type Sodium‐ion Conducting Solid Electrolytes for All Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Kim Taewon , Hyeok Ahn Sang , Song You‐Yeob , Jin Park Beom , Lee Chanhee , Choi Ahreum , Kim Min‐Ho , Seo Dong‐Hwa , Jung Sung‐Kyun , Lee Hyun‐Wook
Published: August 2023

Conventional solid electrolyte frameworks typically consist of anions such as sulphur, oxygen, chlorine, and others, leading to inherent limitations in their properties. Despite the emergence of sulphide, oxide, and halide‐based solid electrolytes for all‐solid‐state batteries, their utilization is hampered by issues, including the evolution of H2S gas, the need for expensive elements, and poor contact. Here, we first introduce Prussian Blue analogue (PBA) open‐framework structures as a solid electrolyte that demonstrates appreciable Na+ conductivity (>10−2mS cm−1). We delve into the relationship between Na+ conductivity and the lattice parameter of N‐coordinated transition metal, which is attributed to the reduced interaction between Na+ and the framework, corroborated by the distribution of relaxation times and density functional theory calculations. Among the five PBAs studied, Mn‐PBA have exhibited the highest Na+ conductivity of 9.1×10−2mS cm−1. Feasibility tests have revealed that Mn‐PBA have maintained a cycle retention of 95.1 % after 80cycles at 30 °C and a C‐rate of 0.2C. Our investigation into the underlying mechanisms that play a significant role in governing the conductivity and kinetics of these materials contributes valuable insights for the development of alternative strategies to realize all‐solid‐state batteries.
Histone Deacetylase 3‐Directed PROTACs Have Anti‐inflammatory Potential by Blocking Polarization of M0‐like into M1‐like Macrophages
Authors: Zhao Chunlong , Chen Shipeng , Chen Deng , Río‐Bergé Clàudia , Zhang Jianqiu , Van Der Wouden Petra E. , Daemen Toos , Dekker Frank J.
Published: August 2023

Macrophage polarization plays a crucial role in inflammatory processes. The histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) has a deacetylase‐independent function that can activate pro‐inflammatory gene expression in lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated M1‐like macrophages and cannot be blocked by traditional small‐molecule HDAC3 inhibitors. Here we employed the proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology to target the deacetylase‐independent function of HDAC3. We developed a potent and selective HDAC3‐directed PROTAC, P7, which induces nearly complete HDAC3 degradation at low micromolar concentrations in both THP‐1 cells and human primary macrophages. P7 increases the anti‐inflammatory cytokine secretion in THP‐1‐derived M1‐like macrophages. Importantly, P7 decreases the secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in M1‐like macrophages derived from human primary macrophages. This can be explained by the observed inhibition of macrophage polarization from M0‐like into M1‐like macrophage. In conclusion, we demonstrate that the HDAC3‐directed PROTAC P7 has anti‐inflammatory activity and blocks macrophage polarization, demonstrating that this molecular mechanism can be targeted with small molecule therapeutics.
Dual Nickel(II)/Mechanoredox Catalysis: Mechanical‐Force‐Driven Aryl‐Amination Reactions Using Ball Milling and Piezoelectric Materials
Authors: Seo Tamae , Kubota Koji , Ito Hajime
Published: August 2023

The combination of a nickel(II) catalyst and a mechanoredox catalyst under ball‐milling conditions promotes mechanical‐force‐driven C−N cross‐coupling reactions. In this nickel(II)/mechanoredox cocatalyst system, the modulation of the oxidation state of the nickel center, induced by piezoelectricity, is used to facilitate a highly efficient aryl‐amination reaction, which is characterized by a broad substrate scope, an inexpensive combination of catalysts (NiBr2 and BaTiO3), short reaction times, and an almost negligible quantity of solvents. Moreover, this reaction can be readily up‐scaled to the multi‐gram scale, and all synthetic operations can be carried out under atmospheric conditions without the need for complicated reaction setups. Furthermore, this force‐induced system is suitable for excitation‐energy‐accepting molecules and poorly soluble polyaromatic substrates that are incompatible with solution‐based nickel(II)/photoredox cocatalysts.
Effect of viscosity on foaming behavior and surface quality of foamed Polyamide 6
Authors: Luo Mei , Liu Bujin , Li Tingyu , Xu Jiangbin , Zhu Nenggui , Zeng Xiangbu , Jiang Tuanhui , He Li
Published: August 2023

Although a large body of literature has reported that PA6 modification enhances melt strength and improves foam quality, the relationship between melt viscosity and foaming quality remains ambiguous. This paper aims to select four PA6 with different viscosities to explore the effect of the viscosity of the material on foaming quality. First, the foamed materials of four PA6 were prepared by core‐back injection foaming technology. In addition, the crystallization properties and rheological behavior of four PA6 were systematically studied by rotational rheometer and differential scanning calorimetry. The morphologies of composite foams with different viscosities were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the cell size and cell density of M2400 with low viscosity were 114 μm and 1.87 × 105 cells/cm3, respectively. With the increase of viscosity, the cell size and cell density of M2500I decreased to 98.3 μm and 2.66 × 105 cells/cm3, respectively. However, as the viscosity continues to increase, the cell size increases, and the cell density decreases. The findings indicate that the secret to good foaming is rheological behavior. The lower viscosity is challenging to prevent cell growth and easy to break, while high viscosity causes poor fluidity which deteriorates foaming quality and surface quality. It provides guidance for preparing foaming materials with excellent performance and surface through a modification that enhances melt strength.
Self‐assembly behavior of elastin‐like polypeptides composed of charged and neutral blocks with different block ratio
Authors: Choi Jeong‐Wan , Won Jong‐In
Published: August 2023

Elastin‐like polypeptides (ELPs) are stimulus‐responsive protein‐based biopolymers, and some ELP block copolymers can assemble into spherical nanoparticles with thermosensitivity. In this study, three differently charged‐neutral diblock ELPs with different ratios of (1:8, 1:4, and 1:2) and one neutral ELP were synthesized, and the dependence of their physical properties on ELP concentration, pH, temperature, and salt concentration was investigated. In deionized water, all ELPs showed one‐step transition behavior from soluble single chains below the transition temperature (Tt), to macroscopic aggregates above the Tt. In NaCl solutions, while neutral ELP still aggregated above the Tt, the charged‐neutral diblock ELPs (1:4 and 1:2) formed hydrophobic core micelles by self‐assembly above certain NaCl concentration and would not aggregate due to the repulsive force between the same charged molecules on the surface. The temperature‐triggered self‐assembly behavior of each ELP as a function of block ratio, temperature, and salt concentration was investigated using analytical instruments that included a turbidimeter, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy.
Benchmarking Cationic Monolayer Protected Nanoparticles and Micelles for Phosphate‐Mediated and Nucleotide‐Selective Proton Transfer Catalysis
Authors: Mahato Rishi Ram , Juneja Sakshi , Maiti Subhabrata
Published: August 2023

Both micelles and self‐assembled monolayer (SAM)‐protected nanoparticles are capable of efficiently hosting water‐immiscible substrates to carry out organic reactions in aqueous media. Herein, we have analyzed the different catalytic effect of SAM‐protected cationic nanoparticles and cationic surfactants of varying chain length towards base‐catalyzed proton transfer mediated ring‐opening reaction of 5‐nitrobenzisoxazole (NBI) (also known as Kemp Elimination (KE) reaction). We use inorganic phosphate ion or different nucleotide (phosphate‐ligated different nucleoside) as base to promote the reaction on micellar or nanoparticle interface. We find almost 2–3 orders of magnitude higher concentration of surfactants of comparable hydrophobicity required to reach the similar activity which attained by low cationic head group concentration bound on nanoparticle. Additionally, at low concentration of nanoparticle‐bound surfactant or with high surfactant in micellar form, nucleotide‐selectivity has been observed in activating KE reaction unlike free surfactant at low concentration. Finally, we showed enzyme‐mediated nucleotide hydrolysis to generate phosphate ion which in situ upregulate the KE activity much more in GNP‐based system compared to CTAB. Notably, we show a reasonable superiority of SAM‐protected nanoparticles in activating chemical reaction in micromolar concentration of headgroup which certainly boost up application of SAM‐based nanoparticles not only for selective recognition but also as eco‐friendly catalyst.
Single‐cell detection of DMSO promoted HL‐60 differentiation toward granulocyte based on DC‐iDEP for medicine screening
Authors: Wang Miaomiao , Wang Mingxu , Li Wei , Liu Yameng , Qiu Feng
Published: August 2023

The most common form of leukemia in adults is acute leukemia. Drug differentiation control is an extremely critical treatment for acute leukemia. Unfortunately, current techniques detecting differentiation control experience long time and complex steps of verification hindering the pace of medicine discovery: flow cytometry and RT‐PCR are highly accurate and efficient at a cost of inconvenient fluorescent labeling or a high risk of contamination; conventional staining leads to cell death unavailable for further pharmacological tests. There is a great interest in developing simple, fast, and non‐invasive techniques to screen medicine. DC‐iDEP is an emerging label‐free identification technique taking advantage of the whole cell native biophysical property for sorting cell populations. Here, HL‐60 cell line has been used as a model to study the differentiation process toward granulocytes and medicine efficacy. The results showed that DEP succeeded in detecting the DMSO promoted HL‐60 differentiation degree by the weighted average characterization factor. This factor is related to the single cell biophysical property, which accumulates to generate differences in each population with distinct constitutions. Furthermore, cichoric acid was investigated to be capable of promoting DMSO‐induced differentiation efficiently. Using the change induced by cichoric acid, the HL‐60 medicine screening application has been first attempted based on DEP. A rapid, label‐free medicine screening method has been established to monitor HL‐60 differentiation toward granulocyte and has great potential for medicine screening.
Application and progress of highcontent imaging in molecular biology
Authors: Boyang Hu , Yangyanqiu Wang , Wenting Rui , Chenxin Yan , Jian Chu , Zhanbo Qu , Yanjun Yao , Qiang Yan , Shuwen Han
Published: August 2023

Humans have adopted many different methods to explore matter imaging, among which high content imaging (HCI) could conduct automated imaging analysis of cells while maintaining its structural and functional integrity. Meanwhile, as one of the most important research tools for diagnosing human diseases, HCI is widely used in the frontier of medical research, and its future application has attracted researchers’ great interests. Here, the meaning of HCI was briefly explained, the history of optical imaging and the birth of HCI were described, and the experimental methods of HCI were described. Furthermore, the directions of the application of HCI were highlighted in five aspects: protein localization changes, gene identification, chemical and genetic analysis, microbiology, and drug discovery. Most importantly, some challenges and future directions of HCI were discussed, and the application and optimization of HCI were expected to be further explored.
Multicentric Reticulohistiocytosis–A rare and disabling disease
Authors: Ashaolu Omowunmi , Ng Selwyn , Smale Shaun , Hughes Jenny
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis is a rare multisystemic condition associated with papulonodular skin lesions, severe arthritis and malignancy. Histopathology shows histiocytes containing abundant eosinophilic ground glass cytoplasm and multinucleated giant cells. Early recognition, age‐appropriate malignancy work‐up and treatment is important to prevent impairment of daily life activity.
Aroyl‐S,N‐Ketene Acetals: Luminous Renaissance of a Class of Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Biesen Lukas , Müller Thomas J. J.
Published: August 2023

Aroyl‐S,N‐ketene acetals represent a peculiar class of heterocyclic merocyanines, compounds bearing pronounced and rather short dipoles with great push‐pull characteristics that define their rich properties. They are accessible via a wide array of synthetic concepts and procedures, ranging from addition‐elimination and condensation procedures up to rearrangement and metal‐mediated reactions. With our work from 2020, aroyl‐S,N‐ketene acetals have been identified as powerful and promising dyes with pronounced and vastly tunable solid‐state emission and aggregation‐induced emission properties. One characteristic trademark of this class of dye molecules is the level of control that could be exerted, and which was thoroughly explored. Based on these results, the field was opened to extend the system to bi‐ and multichromophoric systems by the full toolkit of synthetic organic chemistry thus giving access to even more exciting properties and manifolded substance libraries capitalizing on the AIE properties. This review aims at outlining the reaction‐based principles that allow for a swift and facile access to aroyl‐S,N‐ketene acetals, their methodical and structural evolution and the plethora of fluorescence and aggregation properties.
Chemical Synthesis of Human Milk Oligosaccharides: para‐Lacto‐N‐hexaose and para‐Lacto‐N‐neohexaose
Authors: Singh Yashapal , Escopy Samira , Shadrick Melanie , Bandara Mithila D. , Stine Keith J. , Demchenko Alexei V.
Published: August 2023

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) have emerged as a very active area of research in glycoscience and nutrition. HMO are involved in the early development of infants and may help to prevent certain diseases. The development of chemical methods for obtaining individual HMO aids the global effort dedicated to understanding the roles of these biomolecules. Reported herein is the chemical synthesis of two common core hexasaccharides found in human milk, i. e. para‐lacto‐N‐hexaose (pLNH) and para‐lacto‐N‐neohexaose (pLNnH). After screening multiple leaving groups and temporary protecting group combinations, a 3+3 convergent coupling strategy was found to work best for obtaining these linear glycans.
Discovery of Alkaloid Quinazolone‐Derived Imidazolenones with Novel Structural Scaffolds of Multitargeting Antibacterial Potential
Authors: Dai Jie , Battini Narsaiah , Zang Zhong‐Lin , Luo Yan , Zhou Cheng‐He
Published: August 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Alkaloids are one of the prominent members in the development of new antimicrobial agents. This work discovered a class of alkaloid quinazolone‐derived imidazolenones as novel structural type of antibacterial agents with large potential to treat severe bacterial infections in the agricultural and food field. Preliminary bioactive assay displayed that some of the prepared compounds exhibited good inhibition against the tested strains, and cyclohexylimidazole‐derived 7‐fluoroquinazolone 22a (MIC = 0.002 mmol/L) exhibited a 12.5‐fold stronger inhibition than norfloxacin against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922. Further studies revealed that compound 22a not only possessed the ability of rapid bactericidal property and low propensity to develop resistance but also showed low cytotoxic effects toward red blood cells. The preliminary mechanism exploration indicated that compound 22a could cause membrane damage by disrupting bacterial membrane as well as depolarizing the cell membrane. Moreover, compound 22a could insert into DNA, which might hinder the replication of DNA. Molecular docking suggested that compound 22a could bind to gyrase and topoisomerase, which might be due to the suppressed expression of related genes. Meanwhile, compound 22a could disorder the metabolism and stimulate the production of reactive oxygen species to affect bacterial growth. The series of investigations suggested the promise of alkaloid quinazolone‐derived imidazolenones as novel multitargeting antibacterial candidates for treatment of bacterial infections.
Fascinating fluorescence microscopy – model experiments for a student lab unit
Authors: Sprysch Ayleen , Kröger Simone
Published: August 2023

Die Fluoreszenzmikroskopie liefert Forschenden in den Lebenswissenschaften Grundlagen für wertvolle wissenschaftliche Erkenntnisse. In den faszinierenden mikroskopischen Aufnahmen sind markierte zelluläre Strukturen in fluoreszierenden Farben vor einem dunklen Hintergrund zu sehen. Die chemischen Grundlagen der Prinzipien, nach denen Fluoreszenzfarbstoffe Zellstrukturen anfärben, bieten Anknüpfungspunkte an obligatorische Inhalte des Chemieunterrichts der Sekundarstufe II. Im Beitrag werden vier Modellexperimente vorgestellt, die im Schülerlabor oder (Projekt‐)Unterricht in der Schule eingesetzt werden können.
Cannabinoids for symptom management in children with cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chhabra Manik , Ben‐Eltriki Mohamed , Paul Arun , Lê Mê‐Linh , Herbert Anthony , Oberoi Sapna , Bradford Natalie , Bowers Alison , Rassekh S. Rod , Kelly Lauren E.
Published: August 2023

Background

Despite the widespread use of medical cannabis, little is known regarding the safety, efficacy, and dosing of cannabis products in children with cancer. The objective of this study was to systematically appraise the existing published literature for the use of cannabis products in children with cancer.

Methods

This systematic review, registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42020187433), searched four databases: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library. Abstracts and full texts were screened in duplicate. Data on types of cannabis products, doses, formulations, frequencies, routes of administration, indications, and clinical and demographic details as well as reported efficacy outcomes were extracted. Data on cannabinoid‐related adverse events were also summarized.

Results

Out of 34,611 identified citations, 19 unique studies with a total of 1927 participants with cancer were included: eight retrospective chart reviews, seven randomized controlled trials, two open‐label studies, and two case reports. The included studies reported the use of various cannabis products for the management of symptoms. Cannabinoids were commonly used for the management of chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting (11 of 19 [58%]). In controlled studies, somnolence, dizziness, dry mouth, and withdrawal due to adverse events were more commonly associated with the use of cannabinoids. Across all included studies, no serious cannabis‐related adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Although there is evidence to support the use of cannabis for symptom management, in children with cancer, there is a lack of rigorous evidence to inform the dosing, safety, and efficacy of cannabinoids. Because of the increasing interest in using cannabis, there is an urgent need for more research on medical cannabis in children with cancer.
Substituent Dependence on the Reactions of Criegee Intermediates with Carbon Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Takahashi Kaito
Published: August 2023

Criegee intermediates (CIs), R1R2COO, are active molecules produced in the atmosphere from the ozonolysis of alkenes. Here, we systematically evaluated the reactivity of ten CIs with carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide using CCSD(T)‐F12/cc‐pVTZ‐F12//B3LYP/6‐311+G(2d,2p) energies and transition state theory. Many previous studies focused on alkyl substitution, but here we evaluated both alkyl and vinyl substitution toward the reactivity by studying five anti‐type CIs: CH2OO, anti‐CH3CHOO, anti‐cis‐C2H5CHOO, anti‐trans‐MACRO, anti‐cis‐MACRO; and five syn‐type CIs: syn‐CH3CHOO, (CH3)2COO, syn‐trans‐C2H5CHOO, syn‐trans‐MVKO, and syn‐cis‐MVKO. Our study showed that reactions involving CO2 have a large substituent dependence varying nearly five orders of magnitude, while those involving CO have a much smaller two orders of magnitude difference. Analysis based on the strain interaction model showed that deformation of the CI is an important feature in determining the reactivity with CO2. On the other hand, we used the OO and CO bond ratios to analyze the zwitterionic character of the CIs. We found that vinyl substitution with π‐conjugation results in smaller zwitterionic character and lower reactivity with CO. Lastly, the reactivity of CIs with CO as well as CO2 were found to be not fast enough to be important in an atmospheric context.