bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Race Pattern of Women’s 100-m Hurdles: Time Analysis of Olympic Hurdle Performance
Authors: Tsiokanos Athanasios , Tsaopoulos Dimitrios , Giavroglou Arsenis , Tsarouchas Eleftherios
Published: August 2017

Background: For control and effective management of training process in women’s 100-m hurdles event, the coaches, in addition to detailed biomechanical parameters, need also overall, more comprehensive technical parameters, called direct performance descriptors which are used for planning the distribution of an athlete’s efforts over the race. Purpose: The aim of this study was the investigation of the race behavior of elite women sprint hurdlers, on the basis of selected time parameters, and the examination of the existence of a common race pattern in high level hurdle performance. Method: The time data of the race performance between two consecutive Olympic Games were compared. The analyzing subjects consisted of all women 100-m hurdle finalists in Athens 2004 (n = 6) and all women 100-m hurdle finalists (n = 8) and semi-finalists (n = 14) in Beijing 2008. Results: No significant differences were revealed between the two competitions concerning to the means of approach run time, run-in time, intermediate touchdown times, interval times for the hurdle units and the corresponding average velocities. Significant relationship exists between the intermediate times and final performance. The time contribution of the first half of the race to the formation of the final performance is approximately equal to the second one and, generally the standardised time parameters show the existence of a common race pattern in high level hurdle performance. Conclusion: The presented biomechanical data provide coaches and athletes with valuable information about hurdle technique for effective interventions in the training process.
Investigation of Positional Differences in Fitness of Male University Ice Hockey Players and the Frequency, Time Spent and Heart Rate of Movement Patterns during Competition
Authors: Jackson Joel , Snydmiller Gary , Game Alex , Gervais Pierre , Bell Gordon
Published: August 2017

Background:  Men’s university ice hockey has received little scientific attention over the past 30 years, a time in which the traits of the players and the demands of the game have evolved.  Objectives: This study compared the physiological characteristics of university ice hockey players and examined the frequency and duration of the different movement patterns and heart rate (HR) responses during competition. Methods: Twenty male ice hockey players from the same team ( age ± SD = 22±2 years) underwent a fitness evaluation and were filmed and HR monitored during regular season games. Results: Forwards and defense had similar fitness and only differed on % fatigue index and peak heart during on-ice sprinting (P<0.05). Defense stood, glided and skated backwards more than forwards and forwards skated at a moderate intensity and glided forward more than defense (P<0.05). All players spent the majority of game time gliding forward (60% of the time) followed by skating forward at a moderate intensity (17%) and standing with little movement (9%). Average HR during the game reached 96 and 92 % and peak HR was 100 and 96 % of maximum in forwards and defense, respectively. Conclusions: Male university hockey players present with a high level of physical fitness in a variety of categories with few differences between forwards and defense. Movement patterns during games suggest that players are performing low to moderate intensity on-ice activities the majority of the time. Paradoxically, HR continues to climb to near maximum during on ice shifts.
An updated understanding of Texas bumble bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) species presence and potential distributions in Texas, USA
Authors: Beckham Jessica L. , Atkinson Samuel
Published: August 2017

Texas is the second largest state in the United States of America, and the largest state in the contiguous USA at nearly 700,000 sq. km. Several Texas bumble bee species have shown evidence of declines in portions of their continental ranges, and conservation initiatives targeting these species will be most effective if species distributions are well established. To date, statewide bumble bee distributions for Texas have been inferred primarily from specimen records housed in natural history collections. To improve upon these maps, and help inform conservation decisions, this research aimed to (1) update existing Texas bumble bee presence databases to include recent (2007–2016) data from citizen science repositories and targeted field studies, (2) model statewide species distributions of the most common bumble bee species in Texas using MaxEnt, and (3) identify conservation target areas for the state that are most likely to contain habitat suitable for multiple declining species. The resulting Texas bumble bee database is comprised of 3,580 records, to include previously compiled museum records dating from 1897, recent field survey data, and vetted records from citizen science repositories. These data yielded an updated state species list that includes 11 species, as well as species distribution models (SDMs) for the most common Texas bumble bee species, including two that have shown evidence of range-wide declines: B. fraternus (Smith, 1854) and B. pensylvanicus (DeGeer, 1773). Based on analyses of these models, we have identified conservation priority areas within the Texas Cross Timbers, Texas Blackland Prairies, and East Central Texas Plains ecoregions where suitable habitat for both B. fraternus and B. pensylvanicus are highly likely to co-occur.
The key role of microtubules in hypoxia preconditioning-induced nuclear translocation of HIF-1α in rat cardiomyocytes
Authors: Guo Hai , Zheng Hong , Wu Jianjiang , Ma Hai-ping , Yu Jin , Yiliyaer Maimaitili
Published: August 2017

Background

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 is involved in the regulation of hypoxic preconditioning in cardiomyocytes. Under hypoxic conditions, HIF-1α accumulates and is translocated to the nucleus, where it forms an active complex with HIF-1β and activates transcription of approximately 60 kinds of hypoxia-adaptive genes. Microtubules are hollow tubular structures in the cell that maintain cellular morphology and that transport substances. This study attempted to clarify the role of microtubule structure in the endonuclear aggregation of HIF-1α following hypoxic preconditioning of cardiomyocytes.

Methods

Primary rat cardiomyocytes were isolated and cultured. The cardiomyocyte culture system was used to establish a hypoxia model and a hypoxic preconditioning model. Interventions were performed on primary cardiomyocytes using a microtubule-depolymerizing agent and different concentrations of a microtubule stabilizer. The microtubule structure and the degree of HIF-1α nuclear aggregation were observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The expression of HIF-1α in the cytoplasm and nucleus was detected using Western blotting. Cardiomyocyte energy content, reflected by adenosine triphosphate/adenosine diphosphate (ATP/ADP), and key glycolytic enzymes were monitored by colorimetry and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was also used to comprehensively assess whether microtubule stabilization can enhance the myocardial protective effect of hypoxic preconditioning.

Results

During prolonged hypoxia, it was found that the destruction of the microtubule network structure of cardiomyocytes was gradually aggravated. After this preconditioning, an abundance of HIF-1α was clustered in the nucleus. When the microtubules were depolymerized and hypoxia pretreatment was performed, HIF-1α clustering occurred around the nucleus, and HIF-1α nuclear expression was low. The levels of key glycolytic enzymes were significantly higher in the microtubule stabilizer group than in the hypoxia group. Additionally, the levels of lactate dehydrogenase and ROS were significantly lower in the microtubule stabilizer group than in the hypoxia group.

Conclusion

The microtubules of cardiomyocytes may be involved in the process of HIF-1α endonuclear aggregation, helping to enhance the anti-hypoxic ability of cardiomyocytes.
Exercise training with dietary restriction enhances circulating irisin level associated with increasing endothelial progenitor cell number in obese adults: an intervention study
Authors: Huang Junhao , Wang Shen , Xu Fengpeng , Wang Dan , Yin Honggang , Lai Qinhao , Liao Jingwen , Hou Xiaohui , Hu Min
Published: August 2017

Objective

Circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) correlate negatively with obesity. Previous studies have shown that exercise significantly restores circulating EPC levels in obese people; however, the underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated. Recently, irisin has been reported to have a critical role in the regulation of EPCs. This exercise-induced myokine has been demonstrated to play a therapeutic role in obesity. In this study, we hypothesized that the increase in circulating irisin may form a link with increasing EPC levels in obese people after exercise.

Methods

Seventeen obese adults completed an 8-week program of combined exercise and dietary intervention. Clinical characteristics, blood biochemistry, and circulating irisin levels of subjects were measured before and after eight weeks of training. EPC levels were evaluated via flow cytometry, and EPC migratory and adhesive functions were also determined.

Results

Circulating irisin levels significantly increased following the 8-week training program (P < 0.05). We furthermore observed an improvement in EPC numbers (P < 0.05), and EPC migratory and adhesive functions (P < 0.001 andP < 0.05, respectively) after the intervention. Additionally, we detected a positive correlation between changes in irisin and changes in EPC number (r = 0.52,P < 0.05).

Discussion

For the first time, a positive correlation between increasing irisin levels and increasing EPC levels has been reported after an 8-week program, consisting of exercise and dietary intervention. This result suggests a novel effect of irisin on the regulation of EPC mobilization, which might contribute to improvement of endothelial function in obese people.
Pyrrolizidine alkaloid variation in Senecio vulgaris populations from native and invasive ranges
Authors: Cheng Dandan , Nguyen Viet-Thang , Ndihokubwayo Noel , Ge Jiwen , Mulder Patrick P.J.
Published: August 2017

Biological invasion is regarded as one of the greatest environmental problems facilitated by globalization. Some hypotheses about the invasive mechanisms of alien invasive plants consider the plant–herbivore interaction and the role of plant defense in this interaction. For example, the “Shift Defense Hypothesis” (SDH) argues that introduced plants evolve higher levels of qualitative defense chemicals and decreased levels of quantitative defense, as they are released of the selective pressures from specialist herbivores but still face attack from generalists. Common groundsel (Senecio vulgaris), originating from Europe, is a cosmopolitan invasive plant in temperate regions. As in other Senecio species, S. vulgaris contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) as characteristic qualitative defense compounds. In this study, S. vulgaris plants originating from native and invasive ranges (Europe and China, respectively) were grown under identical conditions and harvested upon flowering. PA composition and concentration in shoot and root samples were determined using Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). We investigated the differences between native and invasive S. vulgaris populations with regard to quantitative and qualitative variation of PAs. We identified 20 PAs, among which senecionine, senecionine N-oxide, integerrimine N-oxide and seneciphylline N-oxide were dominant in the roots. In the shoots, in addition to the 4 PAs dominant in roots, retrorsine N-oxide, spartioidine N-oxide and 2 non-identified PAs were also prevalent. The roots possessed a lower PA diversity but a higher total PA concentration than the shoots. Most individual PAs as well as the total PA concentration were strongly positively correlated between the roots and shoots. Both native and invasive S. vulgaris populations shared the pattern described above. However, there was a slight trend indicating lower PA diversity and lower total PA concentration in invasive S. vulgaris populations than native populations, which is not consistent with the prediction of SDH.
Effect of Santa Ana winds on bio-optical properties off Baja California
Authors: Sosa-Avalos R , Gaxiola-Castro G , Durazo R , Greg-Mitchell B
Published: August 2017

The effect of Santa Ana winds on bio-optical properties (absorption coefficients of particles, detritus and phytoplankton) off Baja California (Mexico) was evaluated using data obtained during four cruises in January, April, August and October 1999. Meteorological data from a station at Todos Santos Bay and satellite-derived wind data indicated three Santa Ana events during October 1999, with low relative humidity, high air temperature and persistent ENE winds. The absorption coefficient of detritus (adT) in surface samples was ten-fold higher in October because of the inorganic material wind-driven by the Santa Ana events that occurred from 9 to 11 and from 17 to 20 October, 1999. The absorption coefficients of particles (ap) and phytoplankton (aɸ) in the euphotic zone were higher in the April survey as a result of higher phytoplankton abundance. The ap, a  and Kd values in the euphotic zone were fitted to chlorophyll using a power function, with an explained variance of 37%, 72% and 16%, respectively. On excluding the October adT surface values, chlorophyll explained 82% of the changes in the absorption coefficients (ap and aɸ), and 87% of the Kd variability. Approximately 80% of the chlorophyll concentration can be explained by the water column spectral reflectance relationship: Rrs(443)/Rrs(555). According to our results, regional chlorophyll estimates from water column bio-optical information were not greatly affected by wind-borne dust transported during the October 1999 Santa Ana events.
Abundance and distribution of sharks in Los Roques Archipelago National Park and other Venezuelan oceanic islands, 1997–1998
Authors: Tavares R
Published: August 2017

The relative abundance and distribution of sharks caught by the artisanal fishery was determined for the most important offshore islands of Venezuela (Los Roques, Las Aves and La Blanquilla). Data were collected from January 1997 to October 1998, corresponding to 123 fishing days targeting sharks using bottom longline. We also present the results of 10 days of fishing activities targeting tunas and marlins by the same fleet using pelagic longline, in order to determine the importance of the shark bycatch in these fisheries around the offshore islands. A total of 15 shark species representing five families were captured during the study period. The catch composition and CPUE values expressed in weight and number showed that the most abundant species were Carcharhinus perezi and C. falciformis for Los Roques Archipelago and La Blanquilla Island, while C. perezi and Ginglymostoma cirratum were more common in Las Aves Archipelago. In Los Roques Archipelago, C. perezi and C. falciformis were most common during the second half of the year; a similar trend was observed for the rest of the shark species caught by the fishery. A positive relationship was observed between CPUE and fishing depth in the case of C. perezi and C. falciformis off Los Roques Archipelago: CPUE by weight increases with depth, while CPUE by number decreases with depth. The main factors that could be determining shark abundance and their spatial-temporal distribution are the characteristics of the ecosystem, depth, and biological characteristics such as birth, mating season and migratory patterns of the species.
Targeting rapid TKI‐induced AXL upregulation overcomes adaptive ERK reactivation and exerts antileukemic effects in FLT3/ITD acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Seale Tessa S. , Li Li , Bruner J. Kyle , Chou Melody , Nguyen Bao , Seo Jaesung , Zhu Ruiqi , Levis Mark J. , Pratilas Christine A. , Small Donald
Published: October 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with the FMS‐related receptor tyrosine kinase 3 internal tandem duplication (FLT3/ITD) mutation have a poorer prognosis, and treatment with FLT3 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has been hindered by resistance mechanisms. One such mechanism is known as adaptive resistance, in which downstream signaling pathways are reactivated after initial inhibition. Past work has shown that FLT3/ITD cells undergo adaptive resistance through the reactivation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signaling within 24 h of sustained FLT3 inhibition. We investigated the mechanism(s) responsible for this ERK reactivation and hypothesized that targeting tyrosine‐protein kinase receptor UFO (AXL), another receptor tyrosine kinase that has been implicated in cancer resistance, may overcome the adaptive ERK reactivation. Experiments revealed that AXL is upregulated and activated in FLT3/ITD cell lines mere hours after commencing TKI treatment. AXL inhibition combined with FLT3 inhibition to decrease the ERK signal rebound and to exert greater anti‐leukemia effects than with either treatment alone. Finally, we observed that TKI‐induced AXL upregulation occurs in patient samples, and combined inhibition of both AXL and FLT3 increased efficacy in our in vivo models. Taken together, these data suggest that AXL plays a role in adaptive resistance in FLT3/ITD AML and that combined AXL and FLT3 inhibition might improve FLT3/ITD AML patient outcomes.
Boundary spanning increases knowledge and action on invasive species in a changing climate
Authors: Evans Annette E. , Colberg Eva M. , Allen Jenica M. , Beaury Evelyn M. , Brown‐Lima Carrie , Morelli Toni Lyn , Bradley Bethany A.
Published: October 2024

Challenges associated with global change stressors on ecosystems have prompted calls to improve actionable science, including through boundary‐spanning activities, which aim to build connections and communication between researchers and natural resource practitioners. By synthesizing and translating research and practitioner knowledge, boundary‐spanning activities could support proactive, research‐informed conservation practice, but the success of these efforts is rarely evaluated.

Using repeat survey data from the Northeast Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change (NE RISCC) Management Network, a boundary‐spanning organization, we evaluate whether participating in NE RISCC affected practitioners' knowledge, actions and priorities related to invasive species management under a changing climate.

Our survey results suggest that practitioners who participate in NE RISCC have greater knowledge about invasive species and climate change and are incorporating climate change in more ways into their invasive species management. We also found NE RISCC membership affected the perceived usefulness of informational resources, with NE RISCC members more frequently identifying research syntheses and targeted workshops (both are common products used by NE RISCC to translate science into practice and share manager knowledge) as useful compared to non‐members.

Practitioners who participate in NE RISCC also identified somewhat different research priorities, with non‐members and short‐term members more frequently identifying range‐shifting neonative species and their impacts on native communities as higher priorities compared to long‐term NE RISCC members. NE RISCC research activities and outreach materials have consistently framed range‐shifting neonative species as comparatively low risk, suggesting that this information has influenced practitioner's perception of risk.

Practical implication: Although real‐world impacts of applied ecology are notoriously difficult to quantify, this analysis illustrates that if research results are actively translated, they can affect the knowledge and actions of natural resource practitioners. These impacts illustrate the potential for boundary‐spanning efforts to address other global change challenges to conservation.
Characterization of novel 3D‐printed metal shielding for brachytherapy applicators
Authors: McGrath K. Maiti , Chytyk‐Praznik Krista , Cherpak Amanda
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To characterize 3D‐printed stainless steel metal samples in the presence of an Iridium‐192 source for organ‐at‐risk sparing in gynecologic brachytherapy.

Methods

Samples of 3D‐printed stainless steel (5.5 × 5.5 cm2, thickness range 1–5 mm) were embedded in a solid water phantom at varying distances from source catheters. An Ir‐192 brachytherapy source was passed through the phantom and the dose was measured using EBT3 Gafchromic film. The film was initially positioned in the sagittal plane 2 cm away from the catheters, with the metal directly below and then 1 cm from the film. A uniform dose was delivered at the film plane. A second setup measured a depth dose curve in solid water with film in the transverse plane directly above the metal samples. This setup was recreated using Monte Carlo simulations (EGSnrc egs_brachy). Validation between methods was performed with unshielded (solid water only) measurements.

Results

The planar dose passing through the metal samples (thickness 1–5 mm) at the midpoint between the film and catheters, decreased compared to solid water by 7.4% ± 6.9% to 26.5% ± 5.5%. Dose enhancement on the order of 5% was noted when metal was directly adjacent to the film. The average decrease in depth dose from a single dwell position ranged from 10.0% ± 5.9% (1 mm) to 21.1% ± 5.3% (5 mm) as measured with film, and from 3.8% ± 0.9% (1 mm) to 16.3% ± 0.9% (5 mm) using MC simulation. The average depth dose values were measured using a line width of 2.5 mm for film, and 3 mm for MC simulation, and the measurements generally agree within standard error.

Conclusions

The 3D‐printed metal samples show potential for personalized applicators. Maximum dose reduction of 26.5% ± 5.5% compared to solid water was measured at 2 cm from the source using the 5 mm sample. An outer layer of solid water could potentially be used to reduce dose enhancement due to increased scatter near the metal.
Prediction of stroke severity: systematic evaluation of lesion representations
Authors: Bonkhoff Anna K. , Cohen Alexander L. , Drew William , Ferguson Michael A. , Hussain Aaliya , Lin Christopher , Schaper Frederic L. W. V. J. , Bourached Anthony , Giese Anne‐Katrin , Oliveira Lara C. , Regenhardt Robert W. , Schirmer Markus D. , Jern Christina , Lindgren Arne G. , Maguire Jane , Wu Ona , Zafar Sahar , Rhee John Y. , Kimchi Eyal Y. , Corbetta Maurizio , Rost Natalia S. , Fox Michael D. ,   MRI‐GENIE and GISCOME Investigators and the International Stroke Genetics Consortium
Published: October 2024

Objective

To systematically evaluate which lesion‐based imaging features and methods allow for the best statistical prediction of poststroke deficits across independent datasets.

Methods

We utilized imaging and clinical data from three independent datasets of patients experiencing acute stroke (N1 = 109, N2 = 638, N3 = 794) to statistically predict acute stroke severity (NIHSS) based on lesion volume, lesion location, and structural and functional disconnection with the lesion location using normative connectomes.

Results

We found that prediction models trained on small single‐center datasets could perform well using within‐dataset cross‐validation, but results did not generalize to independent datasets (median R2N1 = 0.2%). Performance across independent datasets improved using large single‐center training data (R2N2 = 15.8%) and improved further using multicenter training data (R2N3 = 24.4%). These results were consistent across lesion attributes and prediction models. Including either structural or functional disconnection in the models outperformed prediction based on volume or location alone (P < 0.001, FDR‐corrected).

Interpretation

We conclude that (1) prediction performance in independent datasets of patients with acute stroke cannot be inferred from cross‐validated results within a dataset, as performance results obtained via these two methods differed consistently, (2) prediction performance can be improved by training on large and, importantly, multicenter datasets, and (3) structural and functional disconnection allow for improved prediction of acute stroke severity.
Comparison of intraepidermal nerve fiber density and confocal corneal microscopy for neuropathy
Authors: Reynolds Evan L. , Koenig Fallon , Watanabe Maya , Kwiatek Alyssa , Elafros Melissa A. , Stino Amro , Henderson Don , Herrmann David N. , Feldman Eva L. , Callaghan Brian C.
Published: October 2024

Objective

Compare the diagnostic characteristics of intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) and confocal corneal microscopy (CCM) for distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP) and small fiber neuropathy (SFN).

Methods

Participants with obesity were recruited from bariatric surgery clinics and testing was performed prior to surgery. DSP and SFN were determined using the Toronto consensus definitions of probable neuropathy. IENFD was assessed from 3 mm punch biopsies of the distal leg and proximal thigh. CCM was performed on both eyes with manual and automated counting. The Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument questionnaire (MNSIq) was also completed. Diagnostic capability was determined using areas under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) from logistic regression.

Results

We enrolled 140 participants (mean [standard deviation [SD]] age: 50.3 years [7.1], 77.1% female, BMI: 44.4 kg/m2 [6.7]). In this population, 22.9% had DSP and 14.3% had SFN. Distal leg IENFD had the largest AUC (95% confidence interval) for DSP (0.78, 0.68–0.89) and SFN (0.85, 0.75–0.96). Proximal thigh IENFD (DSP: AUC: 0.59, 0.48–0.69, SFN: AUC: 0.59, 0.46–0.73) and CCM metrics (DSP: AUC range: 0.55–0.60, SFN: AUC range: 0.45–0.62) had poorer diagnostic capability than distal leg IENFD for DSP/SFN (P < 0.05). MNSIq had similar diagnostic capability to distal leg IENFD for both DSP/SFN (DSP: AUC: 0.76, 0.68–0.85, SFN: AUC: 0.81, 0.73–0.88). More participants (52%) preferred skin biopsies to CCM.

Interpretation

Distal leg IENFD was the best quantitative measure of DSP/SFN. CCM had poor diagnostic characteristics and fewer patients preferred this test to IENFD. The MNSIq had similar diagnostic characteristics to distal leg IENFD, indicating its value as a diagnostic tool in the clinical setting.

Clinical Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03617185.
Gait speed after mild stroke/transient ischemic attack was associated with long‐term adverse outcomes: A cohort study
Authors: Li Ning , Zhang Jia , Du Yang , Li Jing , Wang Anxin , Zhao Xingquan
Published: October 2024

Objective

The association between gait speed and adverse outcomes after stroke has not been fully illustrated. This study aimed to explore the association of gait speed on long‐term outcomes in minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).

Methods

We performed a longitudinal study with acute minor stroke or TIA based on a subgroup of the Third China National Stroke Registry data. The gait speed was evaluated using a 10‐meter walking test at discharge and 3 months after the stroke onset. The primary outcomes were poor functional outcomes at 1 year, defined by a modified Rankin Score (mRS) of 2–6. Additional outcomes included all‐cause death, ambulate dependency (mRS score 4–6), cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment <26), stroke recurrence, and composite vascular events.

Results

The study sample included a total of 1542 stroke patients with a median age of 60 (53–68). At 1‐year follow‐up, 140 (9.20%) patients experienced poor functional outcomes. Faster gait speed at discharge was associated with lower incidence of poor functional outcome (OR = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.84–0.94), cognitive impairment (OR = 0.93; 95% CI, 0.89–0.96), ischemic stroke recurrence (HR = 0.92; 95% CI, 0.87–0.98), and composite vascular events (HR =0.94; 95% CI, 0.89–0.99) at 1 year. Faster gait speed at 3 months was associated with lower incidence of poor functional outcome (OR = 0.90; 95% CI, 0.85–0.95), ambulate dependency (OR = 0.86; 95% CI, 0.77–0.97), and cognitive impairment (OR = 0.92; 95% CI, 0.88–0.95) at 1 year.

Interpretation

Our findings indicated that slow gait speed after minor stroke or TIA may be an independent predictor for long‐term poor outcomes. Gait speed may be considered as a vital sign during follow‐up in post‐stroke patients.
Microenvironment‐Responsive Injectable Conductive Hydrogel for Spinal Cord Injury Repair
Authors: Liu Qi , Wang Wanshun , Yang Haimei , Wang Yingjie , Shi Yingdi , Chen Youlin , Luo Dan , Guo Da , Lin Dingkun , Yue Kan , Li Xing
Published: October 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a severe neurological condition often coupled with a drastic secondary inflammatory response, which further exacerbates the damage in most cases. Due to their unique electrical and mechanical compatibilities with the spinal cord, the utilization of conductive hydrogels through injection for SCI repair, particularly in scenarios involving non‐uniform and large gaps, has emerged as a promising approach. Herein, leveraging the acidic microenvironment characteristic of acute SCI sites, an injectable conductive hydrogel with pH‐responsive immunoregulation is engineered for SCI repair. Based on the dynamic Schiff base chemistry and covalent photo‐crosslinking, this composite hydrogel, composed of gelatin methacryloyl, oxidized dextran, and MoS2, exhibits adjustable mechanical and conductive properties, enabling a customized match with the natural spinal cord's attributes. Additionally, the incorporation of Wnt5a and its selective release in acidic conditions prompt the immediate suppression of inflammatory factors and enhances neural differentiation and regeneration. In the 2‐mm hemisection mouse SCI model, the optimized conductive hydrogel can effectively bridge the injury gap, establish nerve connections and signal, mitigate inflammatory response, and promoted recovery of mobility. This novel injectable conductive hydrogel system offers a promising advance in therapeutic materials for SCI repair.
3D Bioprinting of Thick Adipose Tissues with Integrated Vascular Hierarchies
Authors: Goldfracht Idit , Machour Majd , Michael Inbal , Bulatova Maria , Zavin Janette , Levenberg Shulamit
Published: October 2024

Engineering functional, thick tissues with integrated vascular architectures is crucial for advancing regenerative medicine. This study applied a novel 3D bioprinting strategy to construct thick adipose tissues featuring complex, hierarchical vascular networks. Mature adipocytes and endothelial cells are encapsulated within a collagen matrix, with structural integrity and vascular functionality ensured through a combination of bioinks. An innovative approach is utilized to establish millimetric vascular channels that connect to microvascular networks, forming a fully perfusable, hierarchical vasculature throughout the 3D bioprinted tissue. The structural stability and endothelial functionality of the vascularized constructs are assessed under continuous flow. In‐vitro analyses confirmed the integrity of the vascular networks and demonstrated the functional characteristics of the printed mature adipose cells. Direct anastomosis of the bioprinted tissue to a rat femoral artery resulted in effective vascular integration and tissue viability, as evidenced by efficient blood perfusion and significant host vascular ingrowth within the implanted tissues. The findings highlighted the potential of the presented bioprinting technique in the development of fully functional, vascularized adipose tissues suitable for surgical reconstruction and regenerative medicine applications.
Enhanced Corrosion Resistance of Ag Electrode Through Ionized 2‐Mercaptobenzothiazole in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Yaohua , He Xilai , Zhu Ruiqi , Chen Xingyuan , Wang Tong , Pu Xingyu , Chen Hui , Cao Qi , Li Xuanhua
Published: October 2024

The utilization of Ag electrodes in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is prevalent; however, their inherent reactivity and corrosive characteristics toward perovskite materials often lead to significant stability concerns. Here, 1‐ethyl‐3‐methyl‐1h‐imidazolium 2‐mercaptobenzothiazole (EM) ionic liquid is designed and introduce it into the bathocuproine (BCP) barrier layer to mitigate the potential chemical corrosion of the Ag electrode by the perovskite layer. EM forms multiple interaction modes through the coordination of two types of bonds, C─N, C═N, and C─S, and chelation with Ag, resulting in the formation of a dense chemical anti‐corrosion layer on the Ag surface. By raising the Ag electrode's corrosion potential and decreasing its corrosion current, the occurrence of chemical reactions and corrosion of the Ag electrode by the perovskite layer is effectively suppressed. Additionally, the ionized EM optimizes the band structure and conductivity of BCP and enhances the electron transfer capability at the electron transport layer/Ag interface. The BCP:EM‐based inverted PSCs exhibit an efficiency of 25.11% and excellent stability. Under continuous operation at 45 °C and one sun illumination, the encapsulated device maintains 85.6% of its initial efficiency after 1000 h at the maximum power point.
Ultra‐Durable Solar‐Driven Seawater Electrolysis for Sustainable Hydrogen Production
Authors: Wang Zhaolong , Wu Ciwei , Wang Xiaolong , Xie Mingzhu , Li Yinfeng , Zhan Ziheng , Shuai Yong
Published: October 2024

Ions in seawater hinder direct sewage electrolysis due to the extreme corrosion of Cl− to the anode and reaction of Mg2+ and Ca2+ on the cathode producing solid substances, which reduce the electrolytic efficiency. However, traditional desalination consuming fossil fuel with massive CO2 emissions threatens human survival. Therefore, zero‐carbon emission, ultra‐durable, large‐scale production of freshwater from seawater for water electrolysis is urgently needed. Herein, a multifunctional system for seawater is demonstrated electrolysis based on ultra‐durable solar desalination outdoors. The solar evaporators reach an evaporation flux of 1.88 kg m−2 h−1 with a photothermal conversion efficiency of solar energy as high as 91.3% with excellent ultra‐durable salt resistance even for saturated saltwater due to the Marangoni effects. Moreover, the condensation of pure water from solar desalination based on the evaporation system reaches 0.54 L m−2 h−1 outdoors, which is suitable for a 20 cm × 20 cm engineered electrode equipped with a Janus membrane powered by a solar panel to produce H2 outdoors. The ultrafast unidirectional transport of H2 bubbles enabled by Janus membranes can greatly improve the H2 production efficiency at a rate approaching 85 mL h−1 for continuous 24 h outdoors.
Catalyst Design and Engineering for CO2‐to‐Formic Acid Electrosynthesis for a Low‐Carbon Economy
Authors: Peramaiah Karthik , Yi Moyu , Dutta Indranil , Chatterjee Sudipta , Zhang Huabin , Lai Zhiping , Huang Kuo‐Wei
Published: October 2024

Formic acid (FA) has emerged as a promising candidate for hydrogen energy storage due to its favorable properties such as low toxicity, low flammability, and high volumetric hydrogen storage capacity under ambient conditions. Recent analyses have suggested that FA produced by electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction reaction (eCO2RR) using low‐carbon electricity exhibits lower fugitive hydrogen (H2) emissions and global warming potential (GWP) during the H2 carrier production, storage and transportation processes compared to those of other alternatives like methanol, methylcyclohexane, and ammonia. eCO2RR to FA can enable industrially relevant current densities without the need for high pressures, high temperatures, or auxiliary hydrogen sources. However, the widespread implementation of eCO2RR to FA is hindered by the requirement for highly stable and selective catalysts. Herein, the aim is to explore and evaluate the potential of catalyst engineering in designing stable and selective nanostructured catalysts that can facilitate economically viable production of FA.
All‐Epitaxial Self‐Assembly of Silicon Color Centers Confined Within Sub‐Nanometer Thin Layers Using Ultra‐Low Temperature Epitaxy
Authors: Aberl Johannes , Navarrete Enrique Prado , Karaman Merve , Enriquez Diego Haya , Wilflingseder Christoph , Salomon Andreas , Primetzhofer Daniel , Schubert Markus Andreas , Capellini Giovanni , Fromherz Thomas , Deák Peter , Udvarhelyi Péter , Li Song , Gali Ádám , Brehm Moritz
Published: October 2024

Silicon‐based color‐centers (SiCCs) have recently emerged as quantum‐light sources that can be combined with telecom‐range Si Photonics platforms. Unfortunately, using conventional SiCC fabrication schemes, deterministic control over the vertical emitter position is impossible due to the stochastic nature of the required ion‐implantation(s). To overcome this bottleneck toward high‐yield integration, a radically innovative creation method is demonstrated for various SiCCs with excellent optical quality, solely relying on the epitaxial growth of Si and C‐doped Si at atypically‐low temperatures in an ultra‐clean growth environment. These telecom emitters can be confined within sub‐nm thick epilayers embedded within a highly crystalline Si matrix at arbitrary vertical positions. Tuning growth conditions and doping, different well‐known SiCC types can be selectively created, including W‐centers, T‐centers, G‐centers, and, especially, a so far unidentified derivative of the latter, introduced as G′‐center. The zero‐phonon emission from G′‐centers at ≈1300 nm can be conveniently tuned by the C‐concentration, leading to a systematic wavelength shift and linewidth narrowing toward low emitter densities, which makes both, the epitaxy‐based fabrication and the G′‐center particularly promising as integrable Si‐based single‐photon sources and spin‐photon interfaces.
Carbon Dots Infused 3D Printed Cephalopod Mimetic Bactericidal and Antioxidant Hydrogel for Uniaxial Mechano‐Fluorescent Tactile Sensor
Authors: Das Poushali , Ganguly Sayan , Marvi Parham Khoshbakht , Sherazee Masoomeh , Tang Xiaowu (Shirley) , Srinivasan Seshasai , Rajabzadeh Amin Reza
Published: October 2024

Cephalopods use stretchy skin and dynamic color‐tuning organs for visual communication and camouflage. Inspired by these natural mechanisms, a fluorescent biomaterial for deformation‐induced illumination and optical communication is proposed. This is the first report of 3D printed soft biomaterials infused with carbon dots hydrothermally derived from chitosan and benzalkonium chloride. These biomaterials exhibit a comprehensive array of properties, including significant uniaxial stretching, near‐instantaneous response to tactile stimuli and pH, UV resistance, antibacterial, antioxidant, noncytotoxicity, and highlighting their potential as mechano‐optical materials for biomedical applications. The hydrogel's durability is evaluated by cyclic stretching, folding, rolling, and twisting tests to ensure its integrity and good signal‐to‐noise ratio. The diffusion mechanism is determined by water imbibition kinetics, network parameters, and time‐dependent breathing. Overcoming the common limitations of short lifespans and complex manufacturing processes in existing soft hybrids, this work demonstrates a straightforward method to produce durable, energy‐independent, mechano‐optical hydrogel. Combined with investigations, molecular dynamic modeling is used to understand the interactions of hydrogel components.
Uniform Phase Permutation of Efficient Ruddlesden–Popper Perovskite Solar Cells via Binary Spacers and Single Crystal Coordination
Authors: Li Zijia , Gu Hao , Liu Xiaolong , Wang Haibin , Zhang Nan , Liao Jinfeng , Yu Dejian , Xie Xianqiang , Zhou Yibo , Fang Guojia , Chen Yiwang , Xia Junmin , Yang Shengchun , Liang Chao
Published: October 2024

2D Ruddlesden‐Popper perovskites (RPPs) have attracted extensive attention in recent years due to their excellent environmental stability. However, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of RPP solar cells is much lower than that of 3D perovskite solar cells (PSCs), mainly attributed to their poor carrier transport performance and excessive heterogeneous phases. Herein, the binary spacers (n‐butylammonium, BA and benzamidine, PFA) are introduced to regulate the crystallization kinetics and n‐value phase distribution to form uniform phase permutation of RPP films. The study then incorporates n = 5 BA2MA4Pb5I16 memory single crystal to achieve ultrafast stepped‐type carrier transport from the low n‐value phases to the high n‐value phases in the high‐quality (BA0.75PFA0.25)2MA4Pb5I16 films. These binary spacers and single‐crystal‐assisted crystallization strategies produce high‐quality films, leading to fast carrier extraction and significant nonradiative recombination suppression. The resulting PSC presents a champion PCE of 21.15% with an impressive open circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.26 V, which is the record high efficiency and VOC for low n‐value RPP solar cells (n ≤ 5).
Absolutely Structural Disorder Boosting Bandwidth toward Full‐Spectrum White Light from Single Occupancy of Activator
Authors: Zhang Hongzhi , Li Hong , Li Junpeng , Liu Conglin , Jiang Hongming , Liu Yuxin , Wang Rui , Xie Jiyang , Hu Wanbiao , Zhu Jing
Published: October 2024

Achieving single‐phase full‐spectrum white light (SFWL) phosphors is a central goal in the optical field because they simplify white‐LEDs assembly and avoid long‐term color instability. Despite many approaches are developed, current SFWL phosphors still suffer from chromaticity drift due to inconsistent thermal quenching of multiple emitting centers. Herein, an absolutely structural disorder strategy is established to develop a single‐emitting center‐based SFWL phosphor. Precisely controlling the flux added induces a structural translation from the absolutely ordered Y0.75Ta0.25O1.75:Bi3+ to the absolutely disordered Y0.785Ta0.215O1.715:Bi3+, as directly identified by STEM‐HAADF analyses. Structural disorder enables Y0.785Ta0.215O1.715:Bi3+ to produce SFWL with the FWHM of 6194 cm−1 (175 nm) by employing a single activator site, a 1352 cm−1 increase compared to the cyan‐emitting Y0.75Ta0.25O1.75:Bi3+ despite Bi3+ occupies two lattice positions. This single‐emitting center‐based SFWL, coupled with minimal thermal expansion of the unit cell and inapparent spectral overlap of excitation and emission bands, ensure zero‐chromaticity shift with elevated temperature. A prototype white‐LEDs using Y0.785Ta0.215O1.715:Bi3+ as a single luminescent layer generates warm white light without perceptible CIE coordinates shift under various currents or after extremely long‐term continuous operation. This work highlights the potential of structural disorder in designing SFWL phosphors with exceptional color stability.
Enhancing Long Stability of Solid‐State Batteries Through High‐Energy Ball Milling‐Induced Decomposition of Sulfide‐Based Electrolyte to Sulfur
Authors: Qian Xitang , Lyu Yuxiang , Zhou Siyu , Qiu Yican , Sun Yan , Yuan Yuan , Shao Minhua
Published: October 2024

Metal sulfides are increasingly favored as cathode materials in all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) due to their high energy density, stability, affordability, and conductivity. Metal sulfides often exhibit capacities exceeding their theoretical limits, a phenomenon that remains not fully understood. In this study, it reveals that this phenomenon is primarily due to the sulfur decomposition from sulfide‐based electrolyte. By employing the high‐energy ball milling (HEBM) technique, the deposition of sulfide‐based electrolyte onto sulfur is intentionally promoted, resulting in higher charge capacities compared to the discharge capacities and surpass theoretical limits of metal sulfides. Using chromium sulfide (Cr2S3) as the active material, the sulfur decomposed from sulfide‐based electrolyte transforms into lithium sulfide (Li2S) after discharge, resulting in an increased capacity by ≈439.6 mAh g−1 and improved cycling stability. Consequently, it demonstrates a specific capacity surpassing 1200 mAh g−1 with a capacity retention of over 80% after 650 cycles, maintaining cycling stability for more than 1900 cycles and achieving a Coulombic efficiency exceeding 99.9%. This versatile HEBM approach enables the fabrication of ASSBs utilizing various transition metal sulfides, such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), niobium disulfide (NbS2), and iron disulfide (FeS2), all exhibiting over theoretical limited capacities and prolonged cycling capabilities.
The Combination of a Donor–Acceptor TADF and a MR‐TADF Emitting Core Results in Outstanding Electroluminescence Performance
Authors: Chen Dongyang , Wang Hui , Sun Dianming , Wu Sen , Wang Kai , Zhang Xiao‐Hong , Zysman‐Colman Eli
Published: October 2024

Here the utility and potential of an emitter design are demonstrated, consisting of a narrowband‐emitting multiresonant thermally activated delayed fluorescent (MR‐TADF) core that is decorated with a suitably higher energy donor‐acceptor TADF moiety. Not only does this D–A TADF group offer additional channels for triplet exciton harvesting and confers faster reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) kinetics but it also acts as a steric shield, insulating the emissive MR‐TADF core from aggregation‐caused quenching. Two emitters, DtCzBN‐CNBT1 and DtCzBN‐CNBT2, demonstrate enhanced photophysical properties leading to outstanding performance of the organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). DtCzBN‐CNBT2, containing a D–A TADF moiety, has a faster kRISC (1.1 × 105 s−1) and higher photoluminescence quantum yield (ΦPL: 97%) compared to DtCzBN‐CNBT1 (0.2 × 105 s−1, ΦPL: 90%), which contains a D–A moiety that itself is not TADF. The sensitizer‐free OLEDs with DtCzBN‐CNBT2 achieve a record‐high maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 40.2% and showed milder efficiency roll‐off (EQE1000 of 20.7%) compared to the DtCzBN‐CNBT1‐based devices (EQEmax of 37.1% and EQE1000 of 11.9%).
3D Polymeric Lattice Microstructure‐Based Microneedle Array for Transdermal Electrochemical Biosensing
Authors: Dervisevic Muamer , Harberts Jann , Sánchez‐Salcedo Raquel , Voelcker Nicolas H.
Published: October 2024

Microneedles (MNs) or microneedle arrays (MNAs) are critical components of minimally invasive devices comprised of a single or a series of micro‐scale projections. MNs can bypass the outermost layer of the skin and painlessly access microcirculation of the epidermis and dermis layers, attracting great interest in the development of personalized healthcare monitoring and diagnostic devices. However, MN technology has not yet reached its full potential since current micro‐ and nanofabrication methods do not address the need of fabricating MNs with complex surfaces to facilitate the development of clinically adequate devices. This work presents a new approach that combines 3D printing technology based on two‐photon polymerization with soft lithography for cost‐effective and time‐saving fabrication of complex MNAs. Specifically, this method relies on printing complex 3D objects efficiently replicated into polymeric substrates via soft lithography, resulting in a free‐standing polymeric lattice (PL) membrane that can be transferred onto gold‐coated MNs and used for electrochemical biosensing. This platform shows excellent electrochemical performance in detecting metabolite (glucose) and protein (insulin) biomarkers with a dynamic linear range sufficient for detecting biomarkers in healthy individuals and patients. The approach holds great potential for fabricating next‐generationMNs, including their transfer into clinically adequate devices.
Silver and Copper‐Catalyzed Cycloaddition Reactions of Isocyanide Esters
Authors: Doraghi Fatemeh , Baghershahi Parsa , Gilaninezhad Farzad , Darban Negar Mehdi Zadeh , Dastyafteh Navid , Noori Milad , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Owing to multiple reactive sites, such as an acidic α‐carbon and an isocyano group, isocyanide esters can successfully participate in the synthesis of various five‐ and six‐membered N‐heterocycles through the cycloaddition reactions under metal‐catalyzed systems. Considering the unique and versatile functionality of this synthon, in this review, we have highlighted silver and copper‐catalyzed cycloadditions of isocyanide esters over the last decade.