bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Enteral Supplementation With High-Dose Docosahexaenoic Acid and Risk of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Preterm Infants
Authors: Marc Isabelle , Boutin Amélie , Pronovost Etienne , Perez Herrera Norma Maria , Guillot Mireille , Bergeron Frédéric , Moore Lynne , Sullivan Thomas R. , Lavoie Pascal M. , Makrides Maria
Published: March 2023

Importance

High-dose docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid, may affect the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). However, high-level summative evidence supporting such clinical association in very preterm infants is lacking.

Objective

To examine the association between enteral supplementation with high-dose DHA during the neonatal period and the risk of BPD in preterm infants born at less than 29 weeks’ gestation.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, medRxiv, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception to August 1, 2022, for eligible articles with no language restrictions.

Study Selection

Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were eligible for inclusion (1) if their interventions involved direct administration of a minimum DHA supplementation of 40 mg/kg/d or breast milk or formula feeding of at least 0.4% of total fatty acids, and (2) if they reported data on either BPD, death, BPD severity, or a combined outcome of BPD and death.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two investigators completed independent review of titles and abstracts, full text screening, data extraction, and quality assessment using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% CIs were pooled using random-effect meta-analyses.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcome was BPD using trial-specific definitions, which was further stratified for RCTs that used a more stringent BPD definition based on systematic pulse oximetry assessment at 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age. Other outcomes were BPD, death, BPD severity, or combined BPD and death.

Results

Among the 2760 studies screened, 4 RCTs were included, which involved 2304 infants (1223 boys [53.1%]; mean [SD] gestational age, 26.5 [1.6] weeks). Enteral supplementation with high-dose DHA was associated with neither BPD (4 studies [n = 2186 infants]; RR, 1.07 [95% CI, 0.86-1.34]; P = .53; I2 = 72%) nor BPD or death (4 studies [n = 2299 infants]; RR, 1.04 [95% CI, 0.91-1.18]; P = .59; I2 = 61%). However, an inverse association with BPD was found in RCTs that used a more stringent BPD definition (2 studies [n = 1686 infants]; RR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.01-1.42]; P = .04; I2 = 48%). Additionally, DHA was inversely associated with moderate-to-severe BPD (3 studies [n = 1892 infants]; RR, 1.16 [95% CI, 1.04-1.29]; P = .008; I2 = 0%).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this study showed that enteral supplementation with high-dose DHA in the neonatal period was not associated overall with BPD, but an inverse association was found in the included RCTs that used a more stringent BPD definition. These findings suggest that high-dose DHA supplementation should not be recommended to prevent BPD in very preterm infants.
Assessment of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination in Primary Care Among Swiss University Students
Authors: Jäger Levy , Senn Oliver , Rosemann Thomas , Plate Andreas
Published: March 2023

Importance

Human papillomavirus vaccination coverage rates lie below desired thresholds in Switzerland. Because general practitioners are the main contact for the relatively rare health issues of many Swiss young adults, primary care offers an important opportunity to provide catch-up human papillomavirus vaccination.

Objective

To examine the knowledge, experiences, and attitudes of Swiss university students in the context of receiving human papillomavirus vaccination during primary care visits.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This self-administered, cross-sectional, web-based survey study was conducted among students of 3 universities and 1 educational institution for health professions in the Swiss Canton of Zurich. Specific questions about human papillomavirus vaccination experience were directed to respondents who had received at least 1 dose administered by a general practitioner. Responses were collected during 12-week intervals between November 11, 2020, and April 7, 2021, and data were analyzed from August 3 to August 30, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was whether human papillomavirus vaccination had been administered on the patient’s or the general practitioner’s initiative.

Results

The responses of 5524 participants (median [IQR] age, 23 [21-25] years; 3878 women [70.2%]) were analyzed. The survey completion rate was 90.9% (5524 of 6076 students who consented to participate). A total of 2029 respondents (1792 women [46.2%] and 237 men [14.6%]) reported having received at least 1 human papillomavirus vaccination dose, of whom 740 (36.5%) had received at least 1 dose administered by a general practitioner. Among these, 190 respondents (25.7%) reported that vaccine administration had occurred on their request rather than on their general practitioner’s initiative. Among all respondents, 4778 (86.5%) wanted to obtain more information about human papillomavirus vaccination at a general practitioner’s office, and 2569 (55.3%) rated acute consultations in general practice as inappropriate for addressing human papillomavirus vaccination.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this survey study of Swiss university students suggest that primary care shows a high potential for increasing human papillomavirus vaccination coverage rates in Switzerland. However, there was room for improvement in the proactivity of general practitioners, especially with men, and in the attitudes of students toward the appropriateness of acute consultations in general practice for addressing human papillomavirus vaccination.
Enhanced Osteogenic Properties of Bone Repair Scaffolds through Synergistic Effects of Mechanical and Biochemical Stimulation
Authors: Fu Mengguang , Qiu Shengnan , Wang Fei , Lin Guimei , Shi Yanbin , Qin Zhilong , Tang Bingtao , Li Xuelin , Zhang Jing
Published: March 2023

Herein, the osteogenic properties of bone repair scaffolds are improved by combining mechanical and biochemical stimulations. In the bone microenvironment, fluid shear stress (FSS) is the primary mechanical stimulation. The FSS of the cells is closely related to the scaffold structure. Scaffolds with the same wall thickness (400 μm) and different pore sizes (700, 800, and 900 μm) are established. The FSS of the cells on the scaffold surface is analyzed using the two‐way fluid–structure interaction (FSI) method to obtain the ideal structure. The 400–900 polylactic acid (PLA) scaffold with optimal mechanical stimulation is fabricated using selective laser sintering (SLS). BMP‐2/PLGA microspheres are loaded onto the 400–900 scaffold to further enhance the osteogenic properties through the synergistic effect of biochemical stimulations. The results indicate that the FSS of cells decreases with an increase in the pore size, and the pore size of 900 μm yields the best osteogenic differentiation. At 8 weeks after implantation, the 400–900 microspheres scaffold have the highest ratio of bone volume to total volume (BV/TV) and a uniform distribution of new bone. The results show that BMP‐2/PLGA microspheres can accelerate the formation of new bone.
A Solar Responsive Battery Based on Charge Separation and Redox Coupled Covalent Organic Framework
Authors: Zhou Enbo , Zhang Xiang , Zhu Lei , Yuan Daqiang , Wang Yaobing
Published: March 2023

Solar‐responsive battery holds great promise in solar‐to‐electrochemical energy storage, but is impeded by the lack of efficient photoelectrochemical‐cathodes. Herein, a crystalline mesoporous (≈4.0 nm) covalent organic framework (TA‐PT COF) with repeating units consisting of covalently linked triphenylamine (TPA) and perylenetetracarboxylic diimide (PTCDI) is presented. The repeating unit functions as both a donor–acceptor pair and a dual‐redox site to realize a molecule‐level coupling of intramolecular charge separation (τCS = 136.2 ps, τCR = 949 ps) and reversible redox chemistry (C=O/CO−, TPA/TPA+). Equipped with this photoelectrochemical cathode, a reversible aqueous solar‐responsive battery delivered a reliable voltage‐response of 376 mV, an extra round‐trip efficiency of 35% and a good light durability (500 cycles). A photo‐coupled electron/mass transfer mechanism of photoelectrons for Zn2+ storage and holes for OTf− storage is further revealed, shedding light on a new photoelectrochemical cathode design based on charge separation and redox‐coupled COF for efficient solar‐responsive batteries.
A Phase Engineering Strategy of Perovskite‐Type ZnSnO3:Nd for Boosting the Sonodynamic Therapy Performance
Authors: Zhang Rui , Zang Pengyu , Yang Dan , Li Jiahao , Hu Narisu , Qu Songnan , Yang Piaoping
Published: March 2023

The sensitization performance of sonosensitizers plays a key role in the sonodynamic therapy (SDT) effect. Herein, ZnSnO3:Nd nanoparticles with R3c phase/amorphous heterogeneous structure are developed by phase engineering strategy and applied as an ideal sonosensitizer. In the crystalline perovskite‐type ZnSnO3:Nd, the substitution of the Zn2+ with Nd3+ causes the O 2p non‐bonded state to move toward the Fermi level, which optimizes the band structure for ultrasound sensitization by reducing bandgap. Meanwhile, the unequal charge substitution can also form electron traps and oxygen vacancies to shorten the electron migration distance, which accelerates the electron–hole separation and inhibits carrier recombination, thus improving the acoustic sensitivity. Moreover, the dangling bonds exposed on the surface of amorphous ZnSnO3:Nd provide more active sites, and the localized states of the amorphous phase may also promote carrier separation, resulting in synergistic SDT effect. In particular, the Zn2+ released from ZnSnO3:Nd in the acidic tumor microenvironment (TME) reduces the adenosine triphosphate production by inhibiting the electron transport chain , which promotes the tumor cell apoptosis through destroying the redox balance of TME. Combining the inherent second near infrared and computed tomography imaging capabilities, this ZnSnO3:Nd nanoplatform shows a promising perspective in clinic SDT field.
Functionalized Rhodium Nanoparticles as Antimicrobial Agents for Treatment of Drug‐Resistant Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Authors: Tan Qingqin , Chen Zhenxing , Liu Lei , Huang Xi
Published: March 2023

Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections reported in outpatients. Drug‐resistant bacteria are the major cause of treatment failure and increased mortality rate in patients with SSTIs, posing significant challenges to human health. In this study, new‐generation rhodium nanoplates (RhNPs) and glycol chitosan‐ and polydopamine‐functionalized RhNPs (Rh@GCS) are developed for the treatment of drug‐resistant SSTIs. RhNPs exhibited favorable antibacterial activity against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Ag‐resistant MRSA. The modified Rh@GCS exhibited enhanced antibacterial activity and can directly kill various drug‐resistant bacteria by increasing the permeability of cell membranes, including gram‐positive MRSA and gram‐negative multidrug‐resistant Escherichia coli (E.coli) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA). Moreover, Rh@GCS effectively inhibited bacterial growth and promoted the healing of skin lesions in MRSA‐induced SSTI mouse models. These results suggest that Rh@GCS is a promising nonantibiotic antimicrobial agent for the treatment of drug‐resistant SSTIs.
Molecular Locking with All‐Organic Surface Modifiers Enables Stable and Efficient Slot‐Die‐Coated Methyl‐Ammonium‐Free Perovskite Solar Modules
Authors: Rana Prem Jyoti Singh , Febriansyah Benny , Koh Teck Ming , Kanwat Anil , Xia Junmin , Salim Teddy , Hooper Thomas J. N. , Kovalev Mikhail , Giovanni David , Aw Yeow Chong , Chaudhary Bhumika , Cai Yongqing , Xing Guichuan , Sum Tze Chien , Ager Joel W. , Mhaisalkar Subodh G. , Mathews Nripan
Published: March 2023

The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the state‐of‐the‐art large‐area slot‐die‐coated perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is now over 19%, but issues with their stability persist owing to significant intrinsic point defects and a mass of surface imperfections introduced during the fabrication process. Herein, the utilization of a hydrophobic all‐organic salt is reported to modify the top surface of large‐area slot‐die‐coated methylammonium (MA)‐free halide perovskite layers. Bearing two molecules, each of which is endowed with anchoring groups capable of exhibiting secondary interactions with the perovskite surfaces, the organic salt acts as a molecular lock by effectively binding to both anion and cation vacancies, substantially enhancing the materials’ intrinsic stability against different stimuli. It not only reduces the ingression of external species such as oxygen and moisture, but also suppresses the egress of volatile organic components during the thermal stability testing. The treated PSCs demonstrate efficiency of 19.28% (active area of 58.5 cm2) and 17.62% (aperture area of 64 cm2) for the corresponding mini‐module. More importantly, unencapsulated slot‐die‐coated mini‐modules incorporating the all‐organic surface modifier show ≈80% efficiency retention after 7500 h (313 days) of storage under 30% relative humidity (RH). They also remarkably retain more than 90% of the initial efficiency for over 850 h while being measured continuously.
Entropy‐Mediated High‐Entropy MXenes Nanotherapeutics: NIR‐II‐Enhanced Intrinsic Oxidase Mimic Activity to Combat Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infection
Authors: He Xiaojun , Qian Yuna , Wu Chenglin , Feng Jiayao , Sun Xiaoshuai , Zheng Qinxiang , Li Xiaokun , Shen Jianliang
Published: March 2023

Bacterial infections, such as bacterial keratitis (BK) and subcutaneous abscess, pose significant challenges to global healthcare. Innovative and new antibacterial agents and antibacterial strategies are in demand to control infections in this era of high drug resistance. Nanotechnology is gradually emerging as an economically feasible and effective anti‐infection treatment. High‐entropy MXenes (HE MXenes) are used to confer desirable properties with exposed active sites to high‐entropy atomic layers, whose potential application in the field of biomedicine remains to be explored. Herein, monolayer HE MXenes are fabricated by implementing transition metals with high entropy and low Gibbs free energy to fill the gap in the biocatalytic performance of non‐high‐entropy MXenes. HE MXenes are endowed with extremely strong oxidase mimic activity (Km = 0.227 mm) and photothermal conversion efficiency (65.8%) in the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) biowindow as entropy increases. Subsequently, HE MXenes realize NIR‐II‐enhanced intrinsic oxidase mimic activity for killing methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus and rapidly removing the biofilm. Furthermore, HE MXenes can effectively treat BK and subcutaneous abscess infection induced by methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus as nanotherapeutic agents with minuscule side effects. Overall, monolayer HE MXenes demonstrate promising clinical application potential in the treatment of drug‐resistant bacterial infections and promote the healing of infected tissues.
Ultrahigh‐Flux X‐ray Detection by a Solution‐Grown Perovskite CsPbBr3 Single‐Crystal Semiconductor Detector
Authors: Pan Lei , Liu Zhifu , Welton Claire , Klepov Vladislav V. , Peters John A. , De Siena Michael C. , Benadia Alessandro , Pandey Indra , Miceli Antonino , Chung Duck Young , Reddy G. N. Manjunatha , Wessels Bruce W. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: March 2023

Solution‐processed perovskites are promising for hard X‐ray and gamma‐ray detection, but there are limited reports on their performance under extremely intense X‐rays. Here, a solution‐grown all‐inorganic perovskite CsPbBr3 single‐crystal semiconductor detector capable of operating at ultrahigh X‐ray flux of 1010 photons s−1 mm−2 is reported. High‐quality solution‐grown CsPbBr3 single crystals are fabricated into detectors with a Schottky diode structure of eutectic gallium indium/CsPbBr3/Au. A high reverse‐bias voltage of 1000 V (435 V mm−1) can be applied with a small and stable dark current of ≈60–70 nA (≈9–10 nA mm−2), which enables a high sensitivity larger than 10 000 µC Gyair−1 cm−2 and a simultaneous low detection limit of 22 nGyair s−1. The CsPbBr3 semiconductor detector shows an excellent photocurrent linearity and reproducibility under 58.61 keV synchrotron X‐rays with flux from 106 to 1010 photons s−1 mm−2. Defect characterization by thermally stimulated current spectroscopy shows a similar low defect density of a synchrotron X‐ray and a lab X‐ray irradiated device. Solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy suggests that the excellent performance of the solution‐grown CsPbBr3 single crystal may be associated with its good short‐range order, comparable to the spectrometer‐grade melt‐grown CsPbBr3.
A Protophilic MOF Enables Ni‐Rich Lithium‐Battery Stable Cycling in a High Water/Acid Content
Authors: Sheng Li , Yang Kai , Chen Jia , Zhu Da , Wang Li , Wang Jianlong , Tang Yaping , Xu Hong , He Xiangming
Published: March 2023

Trace protic impurities, such as water and hydrofluoric acid (HF), can severely degrade the stable and long cycling of lithium batteries. Therefore, the costly water removal process is inevitably needed throughout production of lithium batteries, leaving the paradox that energy‐saving lithium‐battery technology consumes non‐negligible amounts of energy. Herein, a unique ionic metal–organic framework (MOF) is reported that enables highly destructive H2O/HF‐tolerant lithium batteries. The isolated ionic fluorine sites in the MOF exhibit unusual protophilicity and efficiently capture ppm‐levels H2O/HF from the highly polar electrolyte solvents. The resulting MOF‐based LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2│Li battery achieves over 300 cycles in the presence of 800 ppm H2O or 1107 ppm acidic impurity. This tenfold longer battery lifespan relative to those for batteries with conventional standard separators demonstrates its excellent electrochemical cycling performance. The results reveal that the rational use of unique nanoporous features of MOFs can provide new possibilities for long‐standing challenges in the lithium‐battery industry.
Visualizing the Atomic Configuration of Carbonate Groups in a (Cu,C)Ba2Ca3Cu4O11+δ Superconductor
Authors: Lin Renju , Wang Qing , Song Dongsheng , He Chengping , Hu Kejun , Liang Zhiyao , Du Haifeng , Hao Ning , Ge Binghui , Wen Hai‐Hu
Published: March 2023

Carbonates (CO32−) have always been known as impurities to degrade the superconductivity in cuprate high‐Tc superconductors. Herein, the atomic arrangement of carbonates is directly visualized in (Cu,C)Ba2Ca3Cu4O11+δ via integrated differential phase contrast (iDPC) combined with state‐of‐the‐art scanning transmission electron microscopy. The carbon atoms replace Cu atoms in the charge‐reservoir layers, contributing to the formation of carbonates through strong orbital hybridization with the surrounding oxygen atoms. Using first‐principles calculations, the spatial configuration of the carbonate groups is confirmed and their influence on the local crystal lattice and electronic states is further investigated. The carbonates not only accommodate distortions by improving the flatness of the outer CuO2 layers but also reduce the density of states at the Fermi level. These two factors play competitive roles to affect the superconductivity. This study provides direct evidence of the presence of CO32− groups and gains an insight into the underlying mechanism of superconductivity in oxycarbonate superconductors.
An Ultra‐Sensitive Flexible Resistive Sensor with Double Strain Layer and Crack Inspired by the Physical Structure of Human Epidermis: Design, Fabrication, and Cuffless Blood Pressure Monitoring Application
Authors: Li Junliang , Liu Ping , Hu Qiusheng , Tong Wei , Sun Yifan , Feng Han , Wu Shunge , Hu Ruohai , Liu Caixia , Wang Yubing , Tian Helei , Bu Yi , Zhang Yugang , Ma Yuanming , Teng Fei , Liu Jian , Guo Xinxin , Yang Austin , Song Aiguo , Yang Xiaoming , Huang Ying
Published: March 2023

The cuffless blood pressure (BP) monitoring device has attracted much attention because of its comfortable and real‐time monitoring. Inspired by the physical structure of the human epidermis, an ultra‐sensitive flexible resistive sensor with a double strain layer and crack structure is prepared by screen printing in this study. The strain material of the sensor is mainly prepared by blending Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) :poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) with waterborne polyurethane and reduced graphene oxide. The sensor exhibits a high gauge factor (GF, ≈1682), fast response (≈48 ms), and long‐term stability (> 2000 cycles) at low strain (≈0–5%). The sensor is placed on the human radial artery and can accurately measure the pulse wave. The features of the pulse wave are automatically extracted using a convolutional neural network. Then the features are corrected using a long short‐term memory neural network, and the current BP value is predicted using a fully connected network layer. The BP result meets the A‐level standards of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation and the British Hypertension Society. This study provides an efficient device and method for continuous and non‐invasive BP monitoring.
An Underwater Bionic Snake Soft Robot with Tunable Deformation and Motion Based on Composite Materials
Authors: Wang Xiaowen , Yuan Zheng , Guo Qinghao , Wang Wenhao , Liu Huibin , Liu Anqin , Ge Zhixing , Yu Haibo , Yang Wenguang
Published: March 2023

Soft‐bodied aquatic organisms and amphibians have different locomotion forms optimized for the living environment. With the increase of scientific research on oceanographic engineering, more and more researchers are paying attention to the underwater movement of bionic robots. Currently, underwater robots face two critical problems, that is, the inefficient actuation of traditional stimulatory response materials and the inability to ensure accurate spatiotemporal control of deformation. In this study, a soft stimulus‐responsive material is designed for remote cordless control in the water environment. An underwater bionic snake soft robot is fabricated using a temperature‐sensitive hydrogel Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) and carbon nanotubes with the ability to convert light into heat. Tunable shape deformation and movement, including the concertina and serpentine locomotion of a light‐driven bionic snake soft robot, are realized by controlling the position of joints through light illumination. In addition, the transport of rod‐like objects, obstacle‐surmounting, and working on different surfaces are achieved by the bionic snake robot. This study will provide references for research on the multiple underwater locomotion forms of light‐driven soft robots.
Multifunctional Terahertz Spoof Plasmonic Devices
Authors: Gao Xinxin , Chen Bao Jie , Shum Kam‐Man , Ma Qian , Cui Wen Yi , Cui Tie Jun , Chan Chi Hou
Published: March 2023

The next‐generation wireless communications and intrachip and interchip communications require high‐speed terahertz (THz) interconnects. The interconnects based on spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPPs) provide a possible route to achieve this goal. Recently, some THz plasmonic devices are explored, but they suffer from bulk sizes and/or single function. Herein, planar multifunctional THz plasmonic devices based on the interaction between SSPPs and spoof localized surface plasmon (SLSPs) including the functions of pass‐through transmission, multifrequency resonances, and phase shift are proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The pass‐through transmission can be realized on the SSPP waveguide by increasing the loss of the coupled SLSP resonator; the multifrequency resonances are obtained by placing the SU‐8 films with different thicknesses on the SLSP resonator due to its high sensitivity; and the phase shift can be achieved by integrating the SU‐8 film on the SSPP waveguide due to the flexible dispersion behaviors of SSPPs. The proposed multifunctional THz plasmonic devices hold great promise for the THz on‐chip integrations, wireless communications, and sensing systems.
Design and Synthesis of Asymmetric Au(III) Complexes Exhibiting Bright Anisotropic Emission for High‐Performance Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kuo Hsin‐Hung , Kumar Sudhir , Omongos Rashen Lou , T. do Casal Mariana , Usteri Marc Eduard , Wörle Michael , Escudero Daniel , Shih Chih‐Jen
Published: March 2023

Organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) are emerging as one of the most promising candidates for next‐generation optoelectronics. However, most commercial OLED displays are fabricated using organometallic phosphors containing rare transition metals, such as Ir(III) and Pt(II). Recently, the development of efficient phosphorescent emitters based on abundant Au(III) is drawing considerable attention. Here, rational molecular design of a series of Au(III) organometallic complexes consisting of asymmetric C^C^N ligands and carbazole moieties functionalized by phenyl or mesityl groups is presented. The synthesized complexes exhibit shortened radiative lifetimes, and reach improved photoluminescence quantum yield, ηPL, of greater than 93% in thin films. Moreover, the asymmetric molecular design induces anisotropic emission with a high ratio of horizontally oriented transition dipole moment of up to 82% in host‐guest films. Accordingly, high‐performance OLED devices with record‐high external quantum efficiencies, ηext, and current efficiencies, ηCE, of up to 27% and 89 cd A−1, respectively, are demonstrated. It is believed that the molecular design of anisotropic Au(III) emitters will be greatly facilitated by the fundamental principles and theoretical analysis presented here.
Chiral Perovskite Nanoplatelets with Tunable Circularly Polarized Luminescence in the Strong Confinement Regime
Authors: Cao Qinxuan , Song Ruyi , Chan Christopher C. S. , Wang Zhiyu , Wong Pui Ying , Wong Kam Sing , Blum Volker , Lu Haipeng
Published: March 2023

Chiral perovskite nanocrystals have emerged as an interesting chiral excitonic platform that combines both structural flexibility and superior optoelectronic properties. Despite several recent demonstrations of optical activity in various chiral perovskite nanocrystals, efficient circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) with tunable energies remains a challenge. The chirality imprinting mechanism as a function of perovskite nanocrystal dimensionality remains elusive. Here, atomically thin inorganic perovskite nanoplatelets (NPLs) are synthesized with precise control of layer thickness and are functionalized by chiral surface ligands, serving as a unique platform to probe the chirality transfer mechanism at the organic/perovskite interface. It is found that chirality is successfully imprinted into mono‐, bi‐, and tri‐layer inorganic perovskite NPLs, exhibiting tunable circular dichroism (CD) and CPL responses. However, chirality transfer decreases in thicker NPLs, resulting in decreased CD and CPL dissymmetry factors for thicker NPLs. Aided by large‐scale first‐principles calculations, it is proposed that chirality transfer is mainly mediated through a surface distortion rather than a hybridization of electronic states, giving rise to symmetry breaking in the perovskite lattice and spin‐split conduction bands. The findings described here provide an in‐depth understanding of chirality transfer and design principles for distorted‐surface perovskites for chiral photonic applications.
Enantiomerically Pure Fullerenes as a Means to Enhance the Performance of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shi Wenda , Zhuang Qiang , Zhou Rui , Hou Xueyan , Zhao Xiaoming , Kong Jie , Fuchter Matthew J.
Published: March 2023

The rapidly advancing improvements in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are driven, in part, by the inclusion of suitable electron transport layers (ETLs) in high performance devices. Fullerene derivatives are particularly useful ETLs in PSCs, but many of the utilized fullerenes are present as isomeric mixtures. The opportunities presented by single‐isomer, single‐enantiomer fullerenes in PSCs are poorly understood. Here, inverted PSCs are prepared using bis[60]phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester derivative (anti)16,17‐bis[60]PCBM, comparing the performance of enantiomerically pure material to the corresponding racemate. The single enantiomer devices are found to have an improved performance, giving a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 23.2%, compared to 20.1% PCE for the racemate. It is also shown that enantiomerically pure PSC modules can be prepared with a state‐of‐the‐art PCE of 20.1%. Such excellent performance for the single enantiomer devices is accompanied by enhanced operational stability. This study thus provides strong evidence that single isomer ETLs can provide important improvements in PSC performance and it positions chiral fullerenes as an exciting material class moving forward.
Practical Access to meta‐Substituted Anilines by Amination of Quinone Imine Ketals Derived from Anisidines: Efficient Synthesis of Anti‐Psychotic Drugs
Authors: Yadav Naveen , Taneja Neha , Musib Dulal , Hazra Chinmoy Kumar
Published: March 2023

Reversing the conventional site‐selectivity of C−H activation provides efficient retrosynthetic disconnections to otherwise unreactive bonds. Described herein is the Brønsted acid‐catalyzed reaction that selectively performs meta‐amination of anisidines with aliphatic‐, heterocyclic‐ and aromatic amines in a one‐pot procedure. In addition to dramatically simplifying the synthesis of meta‐substituted anilines, our approach has the advantage of the scalability and remarkable functional group tolerance, including late‐stage functionalization of pharmaceutical compounds and natural products. The control experiments and detailed computational analysis provide insight into the reaction mechanism and the origin of meta‐selectivity. The protocol extended to the synthesis of challenging tri‐aminated arenes and successfully applied for the efficient synthesis of 5‐HT6 receptor antagonists, the anti‐psychotic drugs viz.. SB‐214111, SB‐258510, and specifically, anti‐schizophrenic drug SB‐271046.
Oxidative stability and characterization of oleogels obtained from safflower oil‐based beeswax and rice bran wax and their effect on the quality of cake samples
Authors: Badem Şebnem , Baştürk Ayhan
Published: March 2023

Safflower oil‐based oleogels were produced from beeswax and rice bran wax. Oleogels demonstrated higher oxidative stability than shortening at the cooking temperature. Peroxide values in shortening, rice bran wax oleogels, and beeswax oleogels samples were found in the range of 4.8–27.76, 13.21–20.45 and 4.30–7.72 meqO2kg−1 oil. Following oleogelation, there was no significant change in fatty acid composition of safflower oil. In addition, after baking process, the changes in the major fatty acids were not determined to be significant. Solid fat content ratios (carried out at 35°C) of rice bran wax oleogels, in beeswax oleogels and in shortening samples were defined in the range of 4.10%–7.70%, 0.80%–5.00%, and 9.61%, respectively. The highest oil binding capacity was revealed in beeswax oleogels with 99.93%–99.98%. The shortest crystallization time was determined as 3 min in oleogel containing 10% rice bran wax. Cakes consisted of oleogel were acceptable in terms of texture and sensory properties compared to cake produced with shortening. Sensory results revealed that some cakes produced with oleogels were found to be more acceptable as compared with control group samples. In this respect, oleogels produced with safflower oil‐based beeswax and rice bran wax could be used instead of commercial solid fat widely used in the cake industry.
Ethyl cellulose/hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose‐based oleogel shortening: Effect on batter rheology and physical properties of sponge cake
Authors: Naeli Mohammad Hossein , Milani Jafar M. , Farmani Jamshid , Zargaraan Azizollaah
Published: March 2023

This study attempts to fill the gap in ongoing research on the design, optimization, and characterization of ethyl cellulose/hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose‐based (EC/HPMC‐based) low‐saturated oleogel‐shortenings by examining their functional effects on physicochemical, and rheological properties in the cupcake and its batter. Thus, the commercial shortening was completely replaced with the oleogel‐shortenings in the cake formulation and, then, characteristics of the batter (including specific gravity, emulsion stability, and rheological properties), and cake samples (specific volume, moisture content, and texture properties) were evaluated and compared with each other and the control samples (containing commercial‐shortening). In short, the EC‐based‐ and EC/HPMC‐based‐oleogel‐shortenings‐batters had more specific gravity and emulsion stability than the control‐batter. Liner viscoelastic rang in EC/HPMC‐based‐oleogel‐shortenings‐batter, EC‐based‐oleogel‐shortenings‐batter, and control‐batter was 0.212%, 0.159%, and 0.195%, respectively. EC/HPMC‐based‐oleogel‐shortenings‐batter had a more viscoelastic behavior than EC‐based‐oleogel‐shortening‐batter after the control‐batter (p < 0.05). The results of frequency sweep and dynamic shear tests indicated a higher similarity of the rheological behavior of the EC/HPMC‐based‐oleogel‐shortening‐batter with the control‐batter. The results of moisture content and texture profile analysis of the cake samples indicated a slower staling in the oleogel‐shortenings containing samples, especially EC/HPMC‐based‐oleogel‐shortening type.
Polyetheretherketone blends with excellent properties achieved via crosslinkable polyetherimide at high temperatures
Authors: Bai Xiaoxue , Niu Sen , Wang Chunyan , Zhang Yunhe , Jiang Zhenhua
Published: March 2023

With the development of science and technology, polymer materials that work at high temperatures are widely needed. However, currently available polymers are limited to relatively low operating temperatures, with various properties rapidly degrading at high temperatures. Here, with crosslinked polyetherimide (c‐PEI), polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is modified by mechanical blending and extrusion granulation to prepare c‐PEI/PEEK polymer blends. Compared with the commercial polyetherimide (s‐PEI) without crosslinking groups, the construction of its crosslinking network in c‐PEI further restricts the movement of molecular segments and more significantly improves the thermodynamic properties of PEEK at high temperature. This work systematically investigates the effect of the crosslinking degree of polymer blends on performance and balances processability and other properties by controlling the crosslinking degree. Furthermore, this work demonstrates a feasible strategy to fabricate high‐performance polymer materials with high temperature resistance.
Synthesis and characterization of a contorted hexabenzocoronene epoxy toward high thermal stability and thermal conductivity
Authors: Kang Minsung , Lee Dohee , Kim Hyeon Woo , Ahn Seokhoon
Published: March 2023

A contorted hexabenzocorone (HBC) mesogen based epoxy was synthesized and characterized for high thermal stability and thermal conductivity. Since HBC has a nano‐graphene like structure, which would have strong pi–pi interactions, it was expected that HBC epoxy would have superior heat resistance and thermal conductivity. Based on this hypothesis, HBC containing four epoxy groups at edges was synthesized and confirmed by NMR and mass spectrum. HBC epoxy was cured with diaminophenolsulfone and their thermal stability and thermal conductivity were investigated. As expected, the decomposition of 5 wt% occurred at 323.44°C, and thermal conductivity was 0.32 W/mK where the general thermal conductivity of epoxy resins is around 0.2 W/mK. Such enhancement of thermal properties would be explained by the formation of pi–pi stacking of HBC mesogens.
Widely targeted metabolomics analysis reveals the differences in nonvolatile compounds of citronella before and after drying
Authors: Xiong Yun , Ma Peijie , Yan Yitong , Huang Limei , Li Yajiao , Wang Xiaoli
Published: March 2023

Citronella is used as a spice and a traditional herbal medicine. Dried citronella is easy to store and transport, and it is unclear whether dried citronella has more or fewer medicinal components compared to fresh citronella. In the present study, various metabolites in fresh and dry citronella were detected using a widely targeted metabolomics strategy. We identified 712 metabolites and classified them into 31 categories, and we identified 132 flavonoids. After citronella was dried, the quantities of most kinds of flavonoids increased, but the quantities of amino acids, organic acids, and vitamins decreased, and the quantity of quercetin increased significantly. Therefore, the medicinal value of dry citronella may have increased, and the nutritional value of amino acids and vitamins may have decreased. The results of this study can serve as a new theoretical reference to study citronella and promote its nutrition and medicinal chemical composition.
Development and validation of an HPLC–MS/MS method to simultaneously quantify brigatinib, lorlatinib, pralsetinib and selpercatinib in human K2‐EDTA plasma
Authors: Gulikers Judith L. , van Veelen Ard J. , Sinkiewicz Elishia M. J. , de Beer Yvo M. , Slikkerveer Mariëlle , Stolk Leo M. L. , Tjan‐Heijnen Vivianne C. G. , Hendriks Lizza E. L. , Croes Sander , van Geel Robin M. J. M.
Published: March 2023

A liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated to quantify the small‐molecule inhibitors (SMIs) brigatinib, lorlatinib, pralsetinib and selpercatinib, which are used in patients with oncogenic‐driven non‐small cell lung cancer. Chromatographic separation was performed on a HyPURITY® C18 analytical column with a gradient elution using ammonium acetate in water and in methanol, both acidified with formic acid 0,1%. Detection and quantification were performed using a triple quad mass spectrometer with an electrospray ionization interface. The assay was validated over a linear range of 50–2,500 ng/ml for brigatinib, 25–1,000 ng/ml for lorlatinib, 100–10,000 ng/ml for pralsetinib and 50–5,000 ng/ml for selpercatinib. All four SMIs were stable for at least 7 days under cool conditions (2–8°C), and at least 24 h at room temperature (15–25°C) in K2‐EDTA plasma. Under freezing conditions (−20°C), all SMIs were stable for at least 30 days, except for the lowest quality control (QCLOW) of pralsetinib. The QCLOW of pralsetinib was stable for at least 7 days at −20°C. This method provides an efficient and simple way to quantify four SMIs with a single assay in clinical practice.
Green innovation and the stock market value of heavily polluting firms: The role of environmental compliance costs and technological collaboration
Authors: Tian Jinhuan , Dong Yan , Vagnani Gianluca , Liu Peizhong
Published: March 2023

This paper introduces a moderated‐mediation model to investigate the relationship between green innovation, as measured by green patent stocks, and firms' stock market value, as measured by Tobin's Q. Using longitudinal data drawn from 351 heavily polluting firms in China's A‐share market from 2007 to 2018, we find that green innovation is likely to affect firms' stock market value positively. A 1% increase in the green innovation over assets index will enhance by 0.18% the Tobin's Q at the firm level. Environmental compliance costs significantly mediate the green innovation‐firms' stock market value association by 8.5%. We also emphasize the positive moderating role of technological collaboration with public research organizations on green innovation‐environmental compliance costs linkage. Our results emphasize that the recurrent question in the extant literature “does it pay to be green?” should be substituted by “how and under what conditions does it pay to be green for firms?” and further stress how firms obtain sustainable development in the environment and economy through green innovation. Implications for firms and investors are also proposed.
Gellan gum spongy‐like hydrogel‐based dual antibiotic therapy for infected diabetic wounds
Authors: Mendes Ana Isabel , Fraga Alexandra Gabriel , Peixoto Maria João , Aroso Ivo , Longatto‐Filho Adhemar , Marques Alexandra Pinto , Pedrosa Jorge
Published: March 2023

Diabetic foot infection (DFI) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Antibiotics are fundamental for treating DFI, although bacterial biofilm formation and associated pathophysiology can reduce their effectiveness. Additionally, antibiotics are often associated with adverse reactions. Hence, improved antibiotic therapies are required for safer and effective DFI management. On this regard, drug delivery systems (DDSs) constitute a promising strategy. We propose a gellan gum (GG)‐based spongy‐like hydrogel as a topical and controlled DDS of vancomycin and clindamycin, for an improved dual antibiotic therapy against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in DFI. The developed DDS presents suitable features for topical application, while promoting the controlled release of both antibiotics, resulting in a significant reduction of in vitro antibiotic‐associated cytotoxicity without compromising antibacterial activity. The therapeutic potential of this DDS was further corroborated in vivo, in a diabetic mouse model of MRSA‐infected wounds. A single DDS administration allowed a significant bacterial burden reduction in a short period of time, without exacerbating host inflammatory response. Taken together, these results suggest that the proposed DDS represents a promising strategy for the topical treatment of DFI, potentially overcoming limitations associated with systemic antibiotic administration and minimizing the frequency of administration.
Position of lumbar plexus nerves in the psoas major: Application to transpsoas approaches to the lumbar spine
Authors: Zhang Zhenfeng , Zhao Qinghao , Cheng Liang , Zheng Zhiyang , Chen Junjie , Liu Zexian , Gao Yuan , Wang Guoliang , Li Qingchu
Published: March 2023

Far lateral interbody fusion is a minimally invasive operating technique. However, the incidence of postoperative neurological complications is high, and some scholars question its safety. This study describes the neuroanatomical features and spatial orientation within the psoas major. Ten embalmed male cadavers were selected and the left psoas major was dissected. Subsequently, the area between the anterior and the posterior edges of the vertebral body was divided into three equal zones. The nerves' distribution, number, and spatial orientation of the L1/2 to L4/5 intervertebral discs were examined. A caliper was used to measure the diameter of the nerve. The safety zone of the L1/2 intervertebral disc level is located in zone I and II, the relative safe zones of the L2/3 and L4/5 intervertebral discs are located in zone II, and the safety zone of the L3/4 intervertebral disc level is located in the caudal side of zone II. The genitofemoral nerve exits the psoas major in a co‐trunk or two‐branch pattern, and its exit point was distributed between the L3 and L4 vertebral bodies, mainly at the L3/4 intervertebral disc level. The sympathetic ganglia in the psoas major appeared only in zone I at the L2/3 intervertebral disc level. This is a systematic anatomical study that describes the nerves of the psoas major. Spine surgeons can use this study—which consists of important clinical implications—for preoperative planning, and thus, reduce the risk of nerve injury during surgery.
What's old is new again: The anatomical studies of Franklin P. Mall and the fascial‐interstitial spaces
Authors: Pirri Carmelo , Wells Rebecca G. , De Caro Raffaele , Stecco Carla , Theise Neil D.
Published: March 2023

Franklin Mall was one of the foremost scientists of the turn of the 19th century, an exemplary mentor as well as researcher, and his revolutionary contributions are still relevant today. Mall's early training in Leipzig with Wilhelm His and Carl Ludwig provided him with an unusual perspective on the integration of anatomy and physiology, and his interest in the links between structure and function guided the work he carried out after joining the faculty of the new Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Mall carried out innovative studies on the one hand using dye injection to trace blood and lymphatic supplies to different organs and on the other hand using “putrefaction” to digest tissues and study the organization of the reticular space, demonstrating that it was the underlying source of support for all the organs. These two studies of Mall's, carried out independently, provide the basis for modern studies integrating the understanding of fascia and interstitial spaces.
PSL Chemical Biology Symposia Third Edition: A Branch of Science in its Explosive Phase
Authors: Baron Leeroy , Hadjerci Justine , Thoidingjam Leishemba , Plays Marina , Bucci Romain , Morris Nolwenn , Müller Sebastian , Sindikubwabo Fabien , Solier Stéphanie , Cañeque Tatiana , Colombeau Ludovic , Blouin Cedric M. , Lamaze Christophe , Puisieux Alain , Bono Yannick , Gaillet Christine , Laraia Luca , Vauzeilles Boris , Taran Frédéric , Papot Sébastien , Karoyan Philippe , Duval Romain , Mahuteau‐Betzer Florence , Arimondo Paola , Cariou Kevin , Guichard Gilles , Micouin Laurent , Ethève‐Quelquejeu Mélanie , Verga Daniela , Versini Antoine , Gasser Gilles , Tang Cong , Belmont Philippe , Linkermann Andreas , Bonfio Claudia , Gillingham Dennis , Poulsen Thomas , Di Antonio Marco , Lopez Marie , Guianvarc'h Dominique , Thomas Christophe , Masson Géraldine , Gautier Arnaud , Johannes Ludger , Rodriguez Raphaël
Published: March 2023

This symposium is the third PSL (Paris Sciences & Lettres) Chemical Biology meeting (2016, 2019, 2023) held at Institut Curie. This initiative originally started at Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles (ICSN) in Gif‐sur‐Yvette (2013, 2014), under the directorship of Professor Max Malacria, with a strong focus on chemistry. It was then continued at the Institut Curie (2015) covering a larger scope, before becoming the official PSL Chemical Biology meeting. This latest edition was postponed twice for the reasons that we know. This has given us the opportunity to invite additional speakers of great standing. This year, Institut Curie hosted around 300 participants, including 220 on site and over 80 online. The pandemic has had, at least, the virtue of promoting online meetings, which we came to realize is not perfect but has its own merits. In particular, it enables those with restricted time and resources to take part in events and meetings, which can now accommodate unlimited participants. We apologize to all those who could not attend in person this time due to space limitation at Institut Curie.
The [4Fe‐4S]‐Cluster of HydF is not Required for the Binding and Transfer of the Diiron Site of [FeFe]‐Hydrogenases
Authors: Haas Rieke , Engelbrecht Vera , Lampret Oliver , Yadav Shanika , Apfel Ulf‐Peter , Leimkühler Silke , Happe Thomas
Published: March 2023

The active site of [FeFe]‐hydrogenases contains a cubane [4Fe‐4S]‐cluster and a unique diiron cluster with biologically unusual CO and CN− ligands. The biogenesis of this diiron site, termed [2FeH], requires the maturation proteins HydE, HydF and HydG. During the maturation process HydF serves as a scaffold protein for the final assembly steps and the subsequent transfer of the [2FeH] precursor, termed [2FeP], to the [FeFe]‐hydrogenase. The binding site of [2FeP] in HydF has not been elucidated, however, the [4Fe‐4S]‐cluster of HydF was considered as a possible binding partner of [2FeP]. By targeting individual amino acids in HydF from Thermosipho melanesiensis using site directed mutagenesis, we examined the postulated binding mechanism as well as the importance and putative involvement of the [4Fe‐4S]‐cluster for binding and transferring [2FeP]. Surprisingly, our results suggest that binding or transfer of [2FeP] does not involve the proposed binding mechanism or the presence of a [4Fe‐4S]‐cluster at all.