bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Hippo pathway effector YAP is an essential regulator of ductal progenitor patterning in the mouse submandibular gland
Authors: Szymaniak Aleksander D , Mi Rongjuan , McCarthy Shannon E , Gower Adam C , Reynolds Taylor L , Mingueneau Michael , Kukuruzinska Maria , Varelas Xaralabos
Published: May 2017

Salivary glands, such as submandibular glands (SMGs), are composed of branched epithelial ductal networks that terminate in acini that together produce, transport and secrete saliva. Here, we show that the transcriptional regulator Yap, a key effector of the Hippo pathway, is required for the proper patterning and morphogenesis of SMG epithelium. Epithelial deletion of Yap in developing SMGs results in the loss of ductal structures, arising from reduced expression of the EGF family member Epiregulin, which we show is required for the expansion of Krt5/Krt14-positive ductal progenitors. We further show that epithelial deletion of the Lats1 and Lats2 genes, which encode kinases that restrict nuclear Yap localization, results in morphogenesis defects accompanied by an expansion of Krt5/Krt14-positive cells. Collectively, our data indicate that Yap-induced Epiregulin signaling promotes the identity of SMG ductal progenitors and that removal of nuclear Yap by Lats1/2-mediated signaling is critical for proper ductal maturation.
Avaliadores, autores e informações editoriais
Authors: Anjos Sara Joana Gadotti dos
Published: May 2017

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Panorama da visitação e da condução de visitantes em Parques brasileiros
Authors: Canto-Silva Celson Roberto , Da Silva Jordana Santos
Published: May 2017

Propósito do tema: O uso público em Unidades de Conservação (UCs), principalmente através da visitação, pode trazer benefícios diretos e indiretos à sociedade. Os Parques constituem-se em áreas muito favoráveis à visitação, podendo proporcionar aos visitantes a oportunidade de conhecer, entender e valorizar os recursos naturais e culturais existentes nessas áreas e contribuir com o desenvolvimento socioeconômico local. O conhecimento do panorama em que se dá a visitação nos Parques brasileiros, assim como da condução de visitantes, importante atividade no ordenamento dessa visitação, é de fundamental importância para a gestão do uso público crescente nessas áreas e para a avaliação do impacto da atividade nas comunidades locais. Objetivo: O presente trabalho objetivou, através de uma pesquisa documental e do levantamento de informações junto aos gestores das UCs, contribuir com informações sobre a visitação atual nos Parques brasileiros e sobre a condução de visitantes nessas áreas. Metodologia e abordagem: A pesquisa documental foi baseada nos dados do Cadastro Nacional de Unidades de Conservação (CNUC) e as informações junto aos gestores foram obtidas através de questionário elaborado e enviado a estes através da ferramenta Google.docs. Resultados: Com base no CNUC, apenas 33,42% dos Parques estão abertos à visitação. O maior percentual de unidades abertas à visitação é observado entre os parques geridos pela esfera federal (45,07%) ou municipal (44,55%), assim como entre aqueles localizados nos biomas Caatinga (40,00%) ou Mata Atlântica (38,91%). Em relação às informações fornecidas pelos gestores dos Parques, evidencia-se que o número anual de visitantes predominante nestes é superior a 10.000 (46,88%), que os condutores locais atuam de forma exclusiva em 52,13%, estando presentes em 81,25% deles, e que em 39,06% das áreas a atuação dos condutores de visitantes é feita de forma associativada. Originalidade: Apesar do incremento do número de visitantes, a proporção de Parques com visitação, pelo menos no que diz respeito aos Nacionais e Estaduais, não se alterou nos últimos 10 anos. Os condutores locais têm um papel protagonista na condução de visitantes nos Parques brasileiros. A atuação coletiva dos prestadores de serviço de condução de visitantes é uma realidade em pouco mais de um terço dessas áreas.
Testing of New Drugs Approved From 2015 Through 2021 Under the US Pediatric Research Equity Act
Authors: Liu Ian T. T. , Hwang Thomas J. , Kesselheim Aaron S.
Published: October 2024

This study uses public US Food and Drug Administration lists to identify new drugs approved from 2015 through 2021 to examine recent estimates of compliance with and timing of pediatric testing requirements after passage of the Pediatric Research Equity Act.
A Student Call for Gun Violence Education in Medical Schools
Authors: Okum Samuel E.
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the lack of gun violence education in medical school curricula despite the high prevalence of firearm-related deaths and injuries in the US.
Supervised Exercise Therapy for Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Miller James W. , Coellar Juan David , Keshvani Neil
Published: October 2024

This Teachable Moment discusses a woman in her 60s with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, and smoking history who presented with bilateral, aching leg pain triggered by walking and relieved by rest.
Directly Isolated Allogeneic Virus–Specific T Cells in Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Möhn Nora , Grote-Levi Lea , Wattjes Mike P. , Bonifacius Agnes , Holzwart Dennis , Hopfner Franziska , Nay Sandra , Tischer-Zimmermann Sabine , Saßmann Mieke Luise , Schwenkenbecher Philipp , Sühs Kurt-Wolfram , Mahmoudi Nima , Warnke Clemens , Zimmermann Julian , Hagin David , Goudeva Lilia , Blasczyk Rainer , Koch Armin , Maecker-Kolhoff Britta , Eiz-Vesper Britta , Höglinger Günter , Skripuletz Thomas
Published: October 2024

Importance

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a life-threatening viral infection with no approved antiviral treatment.

Objective

To determine whether restoring the compromised immune system of patients with PML with directly isolated allogeneic virus–specific (DIAVIS) T cells is a promising therapeutic strategy, especially if other curative options are absent.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective case series of patients with PML who were treated with DIAVIS T cells was conducted between March 2020 and February 2022. T cells were isolated from healthy donors within 24 hours and targeted against the BK polyomavirus. Patients with PML were treated monocentrically. Eligibility for treatment with DIAVIS T cells was assessed for patients with confirmed PML, and exclusion criteria included stable PML disease and previous treatment with natalizumab.

Exposure

Fresh DIAVIS T cells were administered with a maximum dose of 2 × 104 CD3+ cells/kg body weight. Remaining T cells were cryopreserved in divided doses and administered in additional treatments approximately 2 and 6 weeks later.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcome measures were clinical response and survival of patients, compared with the outcomes of a historical reference group of PML cases receiving best supportive treatment (BST) and with recently published real-world data of patients with PML who were treated with immune checkpoint inhibition.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 28 patients (median [IQR] age, 60 [51-72] years; 20 male [71.4%]). Twenty-two patients (79%) treated with DIAVIS T cells showed response, resulting in significant clinical stabilization or improvement and a reduction in viral load. Six individuals (21%) were classified as nonresponders, deteriorated rapidly, and died, as did 2 other patients during a 12-month follow-up. Older age was the only predictor of a poor treatment response. Survival analysis revealed better 12-month survival rates (hazard ratio, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.24-0.73; P =.02) from diagnosis for patients treated with DIAVIS T cells (18 of 26 [69%]; 12-mo survival rate, 69%) compared with historical controls with BST (57 of 113 [50%]; 12-mo survival rate, including censored data, 45%).

Conclusion and Relevance

This case series of DIAVIS T-cell therapy in PML provides first class IV evidence suggesting efficacy to reduce mortality and improve functional outcome. Further prospective studies are required to confirm these results.
Barriers to Tofersen Therapy for Variant SOD1-Mediated ALS
Authors: Appel Stanley H. , Thonhoff Jason R.
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint advocates for the accelerated adoption of tofersen therapy to treat patients with variant SOD1-mediated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and describes the current barriers to treatment.
Cannabis Use During Adolescence and Young Adulthood and Academic Achievement
Authors: Chan Olsen , Daudi Ahad , Ji David , Wang Mathias , Steen Jeremy P. , Parnian Parsia , Li Crystal , Xiong Annie , Zhang Wei , Lopes Luciane C. , MacKillop James , Busse Jason W. , Wang Li
Published: October 2024

Importance

Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood may affect academic achievement; however, the magnitude of association remains unclear.

Objective

To conduct a systematic review evaluating the association between cannabis use and academic performance.

Data Sources

CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to November 10, 2023.

Study Selection

Observational studies examining the association of cannabis use with academic outcomes were selected. The literature search identified 17 622 unique citations.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Pairs of reviewers independently assessed risk of bias and extracted data. Both random-effects models and fixed-effects models were used for meta-analyses, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach was applied to evaluate the certainty of evidence for each outcome. Data were analyzed from April 6 to May 25, 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

School grades, school dropout, school absenteeism, grade retention, high school completion, university enrollment, postsecondary degree attainment, and unemployment.

Results

Sixty-three studies including 438 329 individuals proved eligible for analysis. Moderate-certainty evidence showed cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood was probably associated with lower school grades (odds ratio [OR], 0.61 [95% CI, 0.52-0.71] for grade B and above); less likelihood of high school completion (OR, 0.50 [95% CI, 0.33-0.76]), university enrollment (OR, 0.72 [95% CI, 0.60-0.87]), and postsecondary degree attainment (OR, 0.69 [95% CI, 0.62-0.77]); and increased school dropout rate (OR, 2.19 [95% CI, 1.73-2.78]) and school absenteeism (OR, 2.31 [95% CI, 1.76-3.03]). Absolute risk effects ranged from 7% to 14%. Low-certainty evidence suggested that cannabis use may be associated with increased unemployment (OR, 1.50 [95% CI, 1.15-1.96]), with an absolute risk increase of 9%. Subgroup analyses with moderate credibility showed worse academic outcomes for frequent cannabis users and for students who began cannabis use earlier.

Conclusions and Relevance

Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood was probably associated with increases in school absenteeism and dropout; reduced likelihood of obtaining high academic grades, graduating high school, enrolling in university, and postsecondary degree attainment; and perhaps increased unemployment. Further research is needed to identify interventions and policies that mitigate upstream and downstream factors associated with early cannabis exposure.
Evaluating Pediatric Macrolide Allergy Using Direct Graded Oral Challenges
Authors: Sillcox Carly , Gabrielli Sofianne , O’Keefe Andrew , McCusker Christine , Abrams Elissa M. , Eiwegger Thomas , Atkinson Adelle , Kim Vy , Copaescu Ana-Maria , Ben-Shoshan Moshe
Published: October 2024

This quality improvement study evaluates the use of direct graded oral challenge to confirm suspected macrolide allergy in children.
Portal Confidentiality Concerns and Health Information Sharing and Access
Authors: Sharko Marianne , Niño de Rivera Stephanie , Benda Natalie , Reading Turchioe Meghan , Ma Xiaoyue , Masterson Creber Ruth , Abramson Erika L.
Published: October 2024

This survey study evaluated whether concerns about parental access to online health information through patient portals altered the amount of sensitive health information by young adults and the likelihood of opening a portal account.
AAPM BTSC Report 377.B: Physicist brachytherapy training in 2022 – A survey of therapeutic medical physics residents
Authors: Simiele Samantha J. , Aima Manik , Melhus Christopher S. , Richardson Susan L.
Published: October 2024

Background

A survey of medical physics residency program directors was conducted in Spring 2021 to examine the current state of brachytherapy (BT) training during residency. In this related work, a subsequent survey of therapeutic medical physics residents in 2022 was conducted to assess the confidence and experience of the trainees. Concerns for access to high‐quality and diverse training in BT have escalated in importance due to recent declines in BT utilization.

Methods

A survey consisting of 26 questions was designed by a working unit of the Brachytherapy Subcommittee of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) and approved for distribution by the Executive Committee of the AAPM. The survey was distributed to current trainees and recent graduates of the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs accredited therapeutic medical physics residency programs by the AAPM. The participant response was anonymously recorded in an online platform and subsequently analyzed using spreadsheet software.

Results

The survey was distributed to 796 current medical physics residents or recent graduates over the course of 6 weeks in February and March of 2022. The survey received 736 views and a total of 182 responses were collected, with 165 respondents completing the survey in full. Among those responses, 110 had completed their residency training, with program start dates ranging from calendar years 2015 to 2021. Individual responses from the survey takers (including partial survey submissions) were evaluated and analyzed to compile results.

Conclusions

Medical physics residents reported the highest levels of confidence and caseload for gynecological BT procedures when compared with other surveyed treatment techniques. This indicates opportunities to improve training and increase access to clinical caseload are needed in order to improve competency and confidence. Time constraints (clinical and rotation‐based) were indicated as impediments to BT proficiency. Medical physics residents reported enthusiasm for additional training opportunities in BT, and it is evident that additional structure and programs are required to ensure adequate access to BT training during residency.
Long‐term performance monitoring of a‐Si 1200 electronic portal imaging device for dosimetric applications
Authors: Kutuzov Ivan , Rivest Ryan , VanUytven Eric , McCurdy Boyd
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Recently, dosimetri applications of the electronic portal imaging device (EPID) in radiotherapy have gained popularity. Confidence in the robust and reliable dosimetric performance of EPID detectors is essential for their clinical use. This study aimed to evaluate the dosimetric performance of the a‐Si 1200 EPID and assess the long‐term stability of its response.

Methods

Weekly measurements were performed on two clinically used TrueBeam linear accelerators (linacs) equipped with a‐Si 1200 EPID detectors over a 2‐year period. They included dark and flood calibration fields, and EPID response to an open field corrected for the long‐term machine output drift measured with the secondary absolute dosimeters: an ion chamber and an ion chamber array. All measurements were performed using five photon beam energies and two imaging modes: continuous and dosimetry. The measurements were analyzed for constancy and the presence of long‐term trends. Comparisons were made between the two linacs for each beam energy. Pixel sensitivity matrices (PSM) were determined semi‐annually and analyzed for long‐term constancy for both treatment machines.

Results

The long‐term variation of the dark and flood field signals, integrated across the EPID plane, over the entire observation period did not exceed 0.17% and 0.79%, respectively. The output‐corrected EPID response showed long‐term variation from 0.28% to 0.36%, depending on beam energy, while the short‐term variation was 0.04%–0.07% for EPID and 0.02%–0.06% for secondary dosimeters. The long‐term variation of secondary dosimeters was 0.2%–0.3%. PSMs were found to be stable to within 1% for 97.8% of pixels and 2% for 100% of pixels.

Conclusion

Techniques to monitor and assess the long‐term performance of the a‐Si 1200 EPID as a dosimeter were developed and implemented using two TrueBeam linacs. The long‐term variation of the EPID response was within clinical tolerance indicated in AAPM TG‐142 report, and the detector was shown to be stable and reproducible for routine clinical dosimetry.
Overlap of spike and ripple propagation onset predicts surgical outcome in epilepsy
Authors: Jahromi Saeed , Matarrese Margherita A.G. , Fabbri Lorenzo , Tamilia Eleonora , Perry M. Scott , Madsen Joseph R. , Bolton Jeffrey , Stone Scellig S.D. , Pearl Phillip L. , Papadelis Christos
Published: October 2024

Objective

Interictal biomarkers are critical for identifying the epileptogenic focus. However, spikes and ripples lack specificity while fast ripples lack sensitivity. These biomarkers propagate from more epileptogenic onset to areas of spread. The pathophysiological mechanism of these propagations is elusive. Here, we examine zones where spikes and high frequency oscillations co‐occur (SHFO), the spatiotemporal propagations of spikes, ripples, and fast ripples, and evaluate the spike–ripple onset overlap (SRO) as an epilepsy biomarker.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed intracranial EEG data from 41 patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy. We mapped propagations of spikes, ripples, and fast ripples, and identified their onset and spread zones, as well as SHFO and SRO. We then estimated the SRO prognostic value in predicting surgical outcome and compared it to onset and spread zones of spike, ripple, and fast ripple propagations, and SHFO.

Results

We detected spikes and ripples in all patients and fast ripples in 12 patients (29%). We observed spike and ripple propagations in 40 (98%) patients. Spike and ripple onsets overlapped in 35 (85%) patients. In good outcome patients, SRO showed higher specificity and precision (p < 0.05) in predicting resection compared to onset and zones of spikes, ripples, and SHFO. Only SRO resection predicted outcome (p = 0.01) with positive and negative predictive values of 82% and 57%, respectively.

Interpretation

SRO is a specific and precise biomarker of the epileptogenic zone whose removal predicts outcome. SRO is present in most patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy. Such a biomarker may reduce prolonged intracranial monitoring and improve outcome.
Variability of cortico‐cortical evoked potentials in the epileptogenic zone is related to seizure occurrence
Authors: Feys Odile , Wens Vincent , Schuind Sophie , Rikir Estelle , Legros Benjamin , De Tiège Xavier , Gaspard Nicolas
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Cortico‐cortical evoked potentials (CCEPs) were described as reproducible during trains of single‐pulse electrical stimulations (SPES). Still, few studies described a variability of CCEPs that was higher within the epileptogenic zone (EZ). This study aimed at characterizing the relationship of CCEP variability with the occurrence of interictal/ictal epileptiform discharges at the temporal vicinity of the stimulation, but not during the stimulation, by effective connectivity modifications.

Methods

We retrospectively included 20 patients who underwent SPES during their stereo‐electroencephalography (SEEG). We analyzed the variability of CCEPs by using the post‐stimulation time course of intertrial standard deviation (amplitude) and the timing of peak amplitude signal of CCEP epochs (latency). Values were corrected for the Euclidian distance between stimulating/recording electrodes. Receiver operating characteristics curves were used to assess the relationship with the EZ. The link between CCEP variability and interictal discharges occurrence, seizure frequency prior to the SEEG recording, and number of seizures during SEEG recording was assessed with Spearman's correlations.

Results

A relationship was demonstrated between the EZ and both the distance‐corrected latency variation (area under the curve (AUC): 0.73–0.74) and the distance‐corrected amplitude variation (AUC: 0.71–0.72) and both were related with the occurrence of seizures.

Conclusion

Seizures before/during SEEG impact the dynamics of effective connectivity within the epileptogenic network by reducing the variability of CCEP latency/amplitude when the seizure frequency increases. It suggests a strengthening of the epileptogenic network with the occurrence of many seizures. These findings stress the importance of early epilepsy surgery at a time when the network organization has not yet been complete.
Reversible Vitrimisation of Single‐Use Plastics and their Mixtures
Authors: Png Zhuang Mao , Wang Sheng , Yeo Jayven Chee Chuan , Raveenkumar Vijayakumar , Muiruri Joseph Kinyanjui , Quek Xian Chun Nicky , Yu Xiaohui , Li Ke , Li Zibiao
Published: October 2024

Vitrimers are promising next‐generation materials, often exhibiting superior properties such as mechanical strength and solvent resistance compared to their thermoplastic counterparts, while still featuring recyclability due to their dynamic covalent crosslinks. The most common strategy to recycle vitrimers is via mechanical reprocessing at high temperatures, while others utilize chemical degradation to reobtain the constituent monomers. This work presents a new approach toward reprocessing by selectively breaking of the vitrimer's crosslinks, turning it back into a thermoplastic. This allows for reprocessing to be achieved in a more sustainable manner such as at lower temperatures and shorter times. After the desired shape has been obtained, facile re‐crosslinking turns the material into a vitrimer, with full restoration of thermal stability, mechanical properties, and gel fraction. To achieve this, a carbene C─H insertion strategy is utilized to introduce an imine‐based crosslinker into various thermoplastics and plastic mixtures to convert them into vitrimers. Properties typical of vitrimers such as a retained polymer network at high temperatures, and an Arrhenius‐type relationship between stress relaxation rate and temperature are observed, while its mechanical properties such as elongation at break and tensile toughness, particularly for plastic mixtures are significantly enhanced, first by crosslinking, then further enhanced up to 8 folds by the reversible crosslinking process.
PEDOT:PSS Films With Very High Thermoelectric Properties Through Water‐Swollen Assisted Reduction With a Tetrakis(dimethylamino)ethylene Solution
Authors: Xu Yichen , Sun Wen , Chen Zhijun , Ouyang Jianyong
Published: October 2024

Thermoelectric (TE) materials have attracted significant attention because they can be used to directly harvest waste heat into electricity. Organic TE materials like poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) have advantages including high mechanical flexibility, low cost, and low intrinsic thermal conductivity. However, their TE properties are notably inferior to their inorganic counterparts. Here, PEDOT:PSS films with very high thermoelectric properties through the sequential treatments with H2SO4, water, and ethanol solution of tetrakis(dimethylamino)ethylene (TDAE) are reported for the first time. The PEDOT:PSS films can exhibit a Seebeck coefficient of 58.2 µV K−1 and electrical conductivity of 1552 S cm−1, and the corresponding power factor is 526 µW m−1 K−2. The water treatment prior to the TDAE solution treatment is crucial for the high TE properties of PEDOT:PSS films. Without the water treatment, the control PEDOT:PSS films exhibit a Seebeck coefficient of only 32.4 µV K−1 and electrical conductivity of 1124 S cm−1, and the corresponding power factor is only 118 µW m−1 K−2. The effect of the water treatment on the Seebeck coefficient is attributed to the swelling of PEDOT:PSS films, which facilitates the penetration of TDAE from solution into the polymer films and thus the reduction of PEDOT:PSS.
Breast Cancer Bone Metastasis Therapy and Tumor‐Associated Bone Destruction Repair by Versatile Semiconducting Nanointegrators with X‐Ray Adjuvant
Authors: Zhang Yijing , Liu Yue , Li Zichao , Zhang Qin , Li Jingchao
Published: October 2024

Tumor progress and tumor‐associated osteolysis are two key issues of breast cancer bone metastasis, which makes it challenging for bone metastasis treatment. To settle these two issues concurrently, a versatile semiconducting nanointegrator (termed as SPNCpG/Ca) containing semiconducting polymer nanoparticle (SPN), Ca2+ and cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine (CpG) oligonucleotides conjugated on the surface via a singlet oxygen (1O2)‐responsive linker, is designed. The antitumor effect can be triggered with X‐ray irradiation as an adjuvant, in which SPN works as a radiosensitizer to produce 1O2 for radiotherapy and controlled release of CpG via disrupting 1O2‐responsive linkers. The Ca2+ accumulation via SPNCpG/Ca delivering causes tumor cell death and the released CpG activates immune response to realize immunotherapy. The combinational action of radiotherapy, Ca2+ overloading, and immunotherapy results in complete clearance of metastatic tumor cells in 4T1 breast cancer‐based bone metastasis mouse models. Furthermore, Ca2+ can accelerate osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells while CpG inhibits osteoclast differentiation in the bone metastasis microenvironment to alleviate osteolysis, which synergistically contributes to repair of tumor‐associated bone destruction. SPNCpG/Ca represents a versatile therapeutic nanosystem with the abilities to treat bone metastasis and repair tumor‐associated bone destruction, providing a new tactic for bone metastasis therapy.
High‐Stability Hybrid Antimony Halides for Thermometry in Power System Component or Circuit Monitoring
Authors: Liu Kunjie , Hou An , Lin Jiawei , Quan Mingzhen , Xiong Yan , Guo Zhongnan , Zhao Jing , Liu Quanlin
Published: October 2024

Organic–inorganic metal halides (OIMHs) possess low preparation costs and high photoluminescence quantum yield. Within a specific range, the temperature‐dependent nature of OIMHs' luminescent lifetime facilitates temperature sensing and thermal imaging functionalities. In this study, a non‐toxic (C10H22N)6SbBr9·H2O ([C10H22N]+ is 4‐(tert‐buty)cyclohexanamine cation) with a 0D structure crystallized in the Pbcn space group is obtained. Under blue light excitation at room temperature, it demonstrates intense broad emission centered at 635 nm. Further investigation into the correlation between temperature and photoluminescence lifetime has unveiled exceptional temperature sensing precision. The relative sensitivities within the range of power system temperature alert 30–70 °C lie between 2.5% and 4.5% K−1. This matches the typical high‐temperature warning threshold for power systems. Moreover, after immersion in water and alcohol, the compound maintains remarkable stability, with multiple heating/cooling cycles confirming its reliability under test temperatures. Additionally, a composite thin‐film device composed of (C10H22N)6SbBr9·H2O, showcasing its potential as a stable and durable thermal imaging temperature sensing device is fabricated.
Hydrogen Spillover Mechanism of Superaerophobic NiSe2‐Ni5P4 Electrocatalyst to Promote Hydrogen Evolution in Saline Water
Authors: Jiang Jiahui , Xu Guancheng , Gong Bingbing , Zhu Jingjing , Wang Weiwei , Zhao Ting , Feng Yuying , Wu Qihao , Liu Shuai , Zhang Li
Published: October 2024

The hydrogen spillover mechanism of metal‐supported electrocatalyst can significantly improve HER activity. However, the rational design of binary heterojunction hydrogen spillover electrocatalysts remains a challenge. Here, a NiSe2‐Ni5P4 heterojunction electrocatalyst with superaerophobic structure is synthesized by using a simple substrate self‐derived strategy. Experimental characterization and theoretical calculation reveal the hydrogen spillover mechanism of NiSe2‐Ni5P4 heterogeneous electrocatalyst. NiSe2 and Ni5P4 synergistically promote the adsorption/dissociation of H2O and the adsorption of H*, respectively. The smaller ΔΦ effectively reduced the electron density at the interface, weakening the proton adsorption at the interface and promoting the migration of H* from NiSe2 to Ni5P4. The NiSe2‐Ni5P4 exhibits excellent HER activity in alkaline electrolyte, requiring only a potential of 65, 270 mV to achieve a current density of 10, 500 mA cm−2, respectively, and a stability of up to 200 h. Moreover, the design of NiSe2‐Ni5P4 with superaerophobic structure can reduce the deposition of impurity ions on the electrode surface and avoid Cl− corrosion of the electrode, which results in NiSe2‐Ni5P4 showing better HER activity and stability than commercial Pt/C in brackish water. This study deepens the understanding of hydrogen spillover mechanism of binary heterojunction electrocatalysts, broadens the application of hydrogen production in complex water quality.
Lignin‐Based Ultrathin Hydrogel Coatings with Strong Substrate Adhesion Enabled by Hydrophobic Association
Authors: Liu Xuan , Zhang Hui Jie , Xi Shuangshuang , Zhang Yifan , Rao Ping , You Xiangyu , Qu Shaoxing
Published: October 2024

Hydrogel coatings are crucial strategies for integrating substrates with functional surfaces. Hydrogel coating with a facile coating process, high toughness, and ultrathin thickness is highly desired. This study utilizes the self‐assembly of hydrophobic lignin into chain‐dense regions during solvent evaporation and constructed a hydrogel coating with Janus structure from hydrophilic polymer and hydrophobic lignin through a facile coating‐drying‐swelling process at room temperature (25 °C). The Janus structure formed as the hydrophobic lignin‐aggregated regions remained at the bottom while the hydrophilic polymer swell at the top. The lignin‐aggregated regions constrained the swelling of the hydrogel coating, allowing for an ultrathin coating layer of ≈8 µm. Additionally, the lignin‐aggregated region increases the stiffness and toughness of the thin hydrogel coating film by establishing strong interfacial bonding with the substrate via dense Van der Waals forces, thereby increasing overall adhesion energy with thin thickness and to various substrates such as glass, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), metal, and rubber. The hydration layer is formed by the hydrophilic polymer swollen on top, which improves lubrication and antifouling properties. Furthermore, the hydrogel coating exhibits high stability in water and saline solutions, ultraviolet shielding properties, and the ability to be removed and recycled after use.
Micro/Nanorobots for Advanced Light‐Based Biosensing and Imaging
Authors: Neettiyath Aparna , Pumera Martin
Published: October 2024

Sensing and imaging of biomolecules are crucial to disease diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy where optical techniques have essential utility. Untethered and remotely controlled micro/nanorobots have shown promising sensing and imaging capabilities, especially in complex biological environments. In this review, how micro/nanorobots are used for optical biosensing and imaging while highlighting the significant developments in the field is discussed. Starting is done by exploring colorimetric biosensing methods enabled by micro/nanorobots. Significant advancements in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy‐integrated micro/nanorobots are reviewed. Further, state‐of‐the‐art optical bio‐imaging applications by micro/nanorobots at in vitro intracellular level are highlighted. Novel in vivo bio‐imaging assisted by optical micro/nanorobot sensors is examined. Furthermore, innovations in micro/nanorobots are assessed where motion augmentation is used as a detection mechanism, with applications in point‐of‐care molecular diagnostics. Finally, the challenges associated with micro/nanorobots‐assisted advanced optical biosensing and imaging while discussing insights about potential research directions for this rapidly progressing field are summarized.
Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Reversal of Sulfonated Di‐ and Triblock Copolymers as Novel Parenteral Anticoagulants
Authors: Swieton Justyna , Miklosz Joanna , Bielicka Natalia , Frackiewicz Aleksandra , Depczynski Karol , Stolarek Marta , Bonarek Piotr , Kaminski Kamil , Rozga Piotr , Yusa Shin‐Ichi , Gromotowicz‐Poplawska Anna , Szczubialka Krzysztof , Pawlak Dariusz , Mogielnicki Andrzej , Kalaska Bartlomiej
Published: October 2024

Despite targeting different coagulation cascade sites, all Food and Drug Administration‐approved anticoagulants present an elevated risk of bleeding, including potentially life‐threatening intracranial hemorrhage. Existing studies have not thoroughly investigated the efficacy and safety of sulfonate polymers in animal models and fully elucidate the precise mechanisms by which these polymers act. The activity and safety of sulfonated di‐ and triblock copolymers containing poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSSS), poly(sodium 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonate) (PAMPS), poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), poly(sodium methacrylate) (PMAAS), poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), and poly(sodium 11‐acrylamidoundecanoate) (PAaU) blocks are synthesized and assessed. PSSS‐based copolymers exhibit greater anticoagulant activity than PAMPS‐based ones. Their activity is mainly affected by the total concentration of sulfonate groups and molecular weight. PEG‐containing copolymers demonstrate a better safety profile than PAA‐containing ones. The selected copolymer PEG47‐PSSS32 exhibits potent anticoagulant activity in rodents after subcutaneous and intravenous administration. Heparin Binding Copolymer (HBC) completely reverses the anticoagulant activity of polymer in rat and human plasma. No interaction with platelets is observed. Selected copolymer targets mainly factor XII and fibrinogen, and to a lesser extent factors X, IX, VIII, and II, suggesting potential application in blood‐contacting biomaterials for anticoagulation purposes. Further studies are needed to explore its therapeutic applications fully.
Development of a Microfluidic Vascularized Osteochondral Model as a Drug Testing Platform for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Salehi Shima , Brambilla Stefania , Rasponi Marco , Lopa Silvia , Moretti Matteo
Published: October 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by changes in cartilage and subchondral bone. To date, there are no available drugs that can counteract the progression of OA, partly due to the inadequacy of current models to recapitulate the relevant cellular complexity. In this study, an osteochondral microfluidic model is developed using human primary cells to mimic an OA‐like microenvironment and this study validates it as a drug testing platform. In the model, the cartilage compartment is created by embedding articular chondrocytes in fibrin hydrogel while the bone compartment is obtained by embedding osteoblasts, osteoclasts, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells in a fibrin hydrogel enriched with calcium phosphate nanoparticles. After developing and characterizing the model, Interleukin‐1β is applied to induce OA‐like conditions. Subsequently, the model potential is evaluated as a drug testing platform by assessing the effect of two anti‐inflammatory drugs (Interleukin‐1 Receptor antagonist and Celecoxib) on the regulation of inflammation‐ and matrix degradation‐related markers. The model responded to inflammation and demonstrated differences in drug efficacy. Finally, it compares the behavior of the “Cartilage” and “Cartilage+Bone” models, emphasizing the necessity of incorporating both cartilage and bone compartments to capture the complex pathophysiology of OA.
Indirect‐To‐Direct Bandgap Crossover and Room‐Temperature Valley Polarization of Multilayer MoS2 Achieved by Electrochemical Intercalation
Authors: Jo Min‐kyung , Lee Eunji , Moon Eoram , Jang Bo Gyu , Kim Jeongtae , Dhakal Krishna Prasad , Oh Saeyoung , Cho Seong Rae , Hasanah Nurul , Yang Seungmo , Jeong Hu Young , Kim Jeongyong , Kang Kibum , Song Seungwoo
Published: October 2024

Monolayer (1L) group VI transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) exhibit broken inversion symmetry and strong spin‐orbit coupling, offering promising applications in optoelectronics and valleytronics. Despite their direct bandgap, high absorption coefficient, and spin‐valley locking in K or K’ valleys, the ultra‐short valley lifetime limits their room‐temperature applications. In contrast, multilayer TMDs, with more absorptive layers, sacrifice the direct bandgap and valley polarization upon gaining inversion symmetry from the bilayer structure. Here, we demonstrate that multilayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) can maintain 1) a structure with broken inversion symmetry and strong spin‐orbit coupling, 2) a direct bandgap with high photoluminescence (PL) intensity, and 3) stable valley polarization up to room temperature. Through the intercalation of organic 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium (EMIM+) ions, multilayer MoS2 not only exhibits layer decoupling but also benefits from an electron doping effect. This results in a hundredfold increase in PL intensity and stable valley polarization, achieving 55% and 16% degrees of valley polarization at 3 K and room temperature, respectively. The persistent valley polarization at room temperature, due to interlayer decoupling and trion dominance facilitated by a gate‐free method, opens up potential applications in valley‐selective optoelectronics and valley transistors.
Blueprints of Architected Materials: A Guide to Metamaterial Design for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Kalogeropoulou Maria , Kracher Anna , Fucile Pierpaolo , Mihăilă Silvia M. , Moroni Lorenzo
Published: October 2024

Mechanical metamaterials are rationally designed structures engineered to exhibit extraordinary properties, often surpassing those of their constituent materials. The geometry of metamaterials’ building blocks, referred to as unit cells, plays an essential role in determining their macroscopic mechanical behavior. Due to their hierarchical design and remarkable properties, metamaterials hold significant potential for tissue engineering; however their implementation in the field remains limited. The major challenge hindering the broader use of metamaterials lies in the complexity of unit cell design and fabrication. To address this gap, a comprehensive guide is presented detailing the design principles of well‐established metamaterials. The essential unit cell geometric parameters and design constraints, as well as their influence on mechanical behavior, are summarized highlighting essential points for effective fabrication. Moreover, the potential integration of artificial intelligence techniques is explored in meta‐biomaterial design for patient‐ and application‐specific design. Furthermore, a comprehensive overview of current applications of mechanical metamaterials is provided in tissue engineering, categorized by tissue type, thereby showcasing the versatility of different designs in matching the mechanical properties of the target tissue. This review aims to provide a valuable resource for tissue engineering researchers and aid in the broader use of metamaterials in the field.
A Robust Core‐Shell Nanofabric with Personal Protection, Health Monitoring and Physical Comfort for Smart Sportswear
Authors: Wu Peiqi , Gu Jianfeng , Liu Xue , Ren Yichen , Mi Xiaoqian , Zhan Weiqing , Zhang Xinmin , Wang Huihui , Ji Xinyi , Yue Zhao , Liang Jiajie
Published: October 2024

Smart textiles with a high level of personal protection, health monitoring, physical comfort, and wearing durability are highly demanded in clothing for harsh application scenarios, such as modern sportswear. However, seamlessly integrating such a smart clothing system has been a long‐sought but challenging goal. Herein, based on coaxial electrospinning techniques, a smart non‐woven textile (Smart‐NT) integrated with high impact resistance is developed, multisensory functions, and radiative cooling effects. This Smart‐NT is comprised of core‐shell nanofibers with an ionic conductive polymer sheath and an impact‐stiffening polymer core. The soft smart textile, with a thickness of only 800 µm, can attenuate over 60% of impact force, sense pressure stimulus with sensitivity up to 201.5 kPa−1, achieve temperature sensing resolution of 0.1 °C, and reduce skin temperature by ≈17 °C under a solar intensity of 1 kW m−2. In addition, the stretchable Smart‐NT is highly durable and robust, retaining its multifunction features over 10 000 bending and multiple washing cycles. Finally, application scenarios are demonstrated for real‐time health monitoring, body protection, and physical comfort of smart sportswear based on Smart‐NT for outdoor sports. The strategy opens a new avenue for seamless integration of smart clothing systems.
Anode‐Free Li Metal Batteries: Feasibility Analysis and Practical Strategy
Authors: Huo Sida , Wang Li , Su Ben , Xue Wendong , Wang Yue , Zhang Hao , Li Meng , Qiu Jingyi , Xu Hong , He Xiangming
Published: October 2024

Energy storage devices are striving to achieve high energy density, long lifespan, and enhanced safety. In view of the current popular lithiated cathode, anode‐free lithium metal batteries (AFLMBs) will deliver the theoretical maximum energy density among all the battery chemistries. However, AFLMBs face challenges such as low plating‐stripping efficiency, significant volume change, and severe Li‐dendrite growth, which negatively impact their lifespan and safety. This study provides an overview and analysis of recent progress in electrode structure, characterization, performance, and practical challenges of AFLMBs. The deposition behavior of lithium is categorized into two stages: heterogeneous and homogeneous interface deposition. The feasibility and practical application value of AFLMBs are critically evaluated. Additionally, key test models, evaluation parameters, and advanced characterization techniques are discussed. Importantly, practical strategies of different battery components in AFLMBs, including current collector, interface layer, solid‐state electrolyte, liquid‐state electrolyte, cathode, and cycling protocol, are presented to address the challenges posed by the two types of deposition processes, lithium loss, crosstalk effect and volume change. Finally, the application prospects of AFLMBs are envisioned, with a focus on overcoming the current limitations and unlocking their full potential as high‐performance energy storage solutions.
A Dynamic H‐Bonding Network Enables Stimuli‐Responsive Color‐Tunable Chiral Afterglow Polymer for 4D Encryption
Authors: Guo Guangyao , Li Huanhuan , Yan Yingmeng , Zhao Wei , Gao Zhisheng , Cao Hengyu , Yan Xin , Li Hui , Xie Gaozhan , Chen Runfeng , Tao Ye , Huang Wei
Published: October 2024

The development of stimuli‐responsive and color‐tunable chiral organic afterglow materials has attracted great attention but remains a daunting challenge. Here, a simple yet effective strategy through the construction of a dynamic H‐bonding network is proposed to explore the multi‐color stimuli‐responsive chiral afterglow by doping a self‐designed chiral phosphorescent chromophore into a polyvinyl alcohol matrix. A stimuli‐responsive deep blue chiral afterglow system with a lifetime of up to 3.35 s, quantum yield of 25.0%, and luminescent dissymmetry factor of up to 0.05 is achieved through reversible formation and breakdown of the H‐bonding network upon thermal‐heating and water‐fumigating. Moreover, multi‐color stimuli‐responsive chiral afterglow can be obtained by chiral and afterglow energy transfer, allowing the establishment of afterglow information displays and high‐level 4D encryption. This work not only offers a facile platform to develop advanced stimuli‐responsive materials but also opens a new avenue for developing next‐generation optical information technology with enhanced functionality and responsiveness.
NIR‐Actuated Ferroptosis Nanomotor for Enhanced Tumor Penetration and Therapy
Authors: Hu Ziwei , Tan Haixin , Ye Yicheng , Xu Wenxin , Gao Junbin , Liu Lu , Zhang Lishan , Jiang Jiamiao , Tian Hao , Peng Fei , Tu Yingfeng
Published: October 2024

Ferroptosis nano‐inducers have drawn considerable attention in the treatment of malignant tumors. However, low intratumoral hydrogen peroxide level and complex biological barriers hinder the ability of nanomedicines to generate sufficient reactive oxygen species (ROS) and achieve tumor penetration. Here a near‐infrared (NIR)‐driven ROS self‐supplying nanomotor is successfully designed for synergistic tumor chemodynamic therapy (CDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT). Janus nanomotor is created by the asymmetrical modification of polydopamine (PDA) with zinc peroxide (ZnO2) and subsequent ferrous ion (Fe2+) chelation via the polyphenol groups from the PDA, here refer as ZnO2@PDA‐Fe (Z@P‐F). ZnO2 is capable of slowly releasing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into an acidic tumor microenvironment (TME) providing sufficient ingredients for the Fenton reaction necessary for ferroptosis. Upon NIR laser irradiation, the loaded Fe2+ is released and a thermal gradient is simultaneously formed owing to the asymmetric PDA coating, thus endowing the nanomotor with self‐thermophoresis based enhanced diffusion for subsequent lysosomal escape and tumor penetration. Therefore, the release of ferrous ions (Fe2+), self‐supplied H2O2, and self‐thermophoresis of nanomotors with NIR actuation further improve the synergistic CDT/PTT efficacy, showing great potential for active tumor therapy.
Easy Direct Functionalization of 2D MoS2 Applied in Covalent Hybrids with PANI as Dual Blend Supercapacitive Materials
Authors: Crisci Matteo , Boll Felix , Domenici Sara , Gallego Jaime , Smarsly Bernd , Wang Mengjiao , Lamberti Francesco , Rubino Andrea , Gatti Teresa
Published: October 2024

The pressing demand for more sustainable energy provision and the ongoing transition toward renewable resources underline the critical need for effective energy storage solutions. To address this challenge, scientists persistently explore new compounds and hybrids and, in such a dynamic research field, 2D materials, particularly transition metal di‐chalcogenides (TMDCs), show great potential for electrochemical energy storage uses. Simultaneously, also conductive polymers (CPs) are interesting and versatile supercapacitor materials, especially polyaniline (PANI), which is extensively studied for this purpose. In this work, a powerful method to combine TMDCs and PANI into covalently grafted hybrids starting from aniline functionalized few‐layers 1T‐MoS2, attained by a facile direct arylation with iodoaniline, is presented. The hybrids provide circa 70 F g−1 specific capacitance in a pseudo device setup, coupled with a robust capacitance retention of well over 80% for up to 5000 cycles. These findings demonstrate the potential of similar covalent composites to work as active components for novel, innovative energy storage technologies. At the same time, the successful synthesis marks the efficacy of direct covalent grafting of conductive polymer on the surface of 2D TMDCs for stable functional materials.