bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
10 Years Development of Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Mingnan , Wang Caoyu , Wang Cheng , Lyu Yanqiu , Wang Jingxiu , Xia Shuixin , Mao Jianfeng , Guo Zaiping
Published: January 2025

Potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs), with abundant resources and low cost, are considered as a promising alternative to commercial lithium‐ion batteries for low‐cost and large‐scale applications. Over the past decade, significant academic progresses are made in the development of PIBs, including advancements in cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes. However, most improvements are achieved under laboratory conditions (e.g., K metal‐based half‐cells and low mass loading of active materials), and the performance of PIBs in full cells is still far from the requirements for commercial applications. A critical insight bridging the academic research and the commercialization of PIBs is urgently needed to guide future research in this field. This review will discuss the challenges and improvement strategies in the development of PIBs, focusing on the potential practical cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes, as well as their performance in full cells. It aims to give the readers a clear and logical understanding of the development of PIBs. The application analysis is also discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the commercialization potential of PIBs. Finally, perspectives are provided for the future development of PIBs.
Single‐Cell Quantification of Viscoelastic Phase Transitions in 3D Tissues
Authors: Tomizawa Yuji , Wali Khadija H. , Surti Manav , Suhail Yasir , Kshitiz  , Hoshino Kazunori
Published: January 2025

Transitions of biological tissues between solid‐like and liquid‐like phases have been of great recent interest. Here, the first successful cell‐by‐cell evaluation of tissue viscoelastic transition is presented. An in situ micro‐mechanical perturbation is applied to a microtissue, and the resulting volumetric deformation is evaluated using 3D light‐sheet microscopy and digital image correlation (DIC), quantifying both solid‐like, well‐aligned displacement and liquid‐like swirling motion between individual cells. The viscoelastic transition of fibroblasts is crucial in fundamental physiological events, such as placentation, cancer dissemination, and wound healing. This study investigates 3D organoid systems modeling maternal‐fetal and tumor‐stroma interfaces, demonstrating established molecular and structural parallels. The analysis visualizes individual cells in stromal‐epithelial interactions and how they collectively alter tissue viscoelastic properties. It also enables in‐silico microdissection, linking single‐cell viscoelasticity with multi‐channel fluorescence. RNAseq analysis of endometrial stromal fibroblasts shows that decidualization activates mechano‐transcriptional regulators, including myocardin‐related transcription factors (MRTFs), associated with increased cellular contractility and actomyosin mobilization. Knocking down MRTFA in cancer‐associated fibroblasts in the tumor‐fibroblast co‐culture 3D model induces significant changes in fibroblast properties, mirroring those observed in the maternal‐fetal interface model, highlighting parallels between placentation and cancer invasion. This analysis confirms existing beliefs and discovers new insights broadly applicable to studying organoids, embryos, tumors, and other tissues.
Er3+‐Tm3+ Co‐Doped Hybridized Gadolinium Aluminosilicate Glass Fiber for Broadband Optical Amplification
Authors: Yu Zhuoming , Huang Yupeng , Han Yi , Liu Ziang , Chen Jingfei , Feng Xu , Li Xueliang , Zhou Shifeng
Published: January 2025

Optical fiber communication has greatly promoted the development of the information age, while the emergence of 5G networks, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence have put forward high challenges to the capacity of current optical fiber communication systems. At present, increasing the bandwidth of erbium‐doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA) is the most effective way to increase the communication capacity. In this paper, a hybridization strategy is proposed for simultaneous achieving strong and flat optical response and demonstrate the success in construction of Er3+‐Tm3+ co‐doped gadolinium aluminosilicate glass fiber for L‐band optical amplification. Gd3+ ions are introduced to enhance the radiative transition by improving the dispersibility of Er3+. Tm3+ ions are co‐introduced to facilitate energy transfer between Er3+ and Tm3+ for achieving flat emission in the L‐band. The hybridized active fiber which can be effectively fused with quartz fiber is fabricated by melt‐in‐tube (MIT) approach. A fiber amplifier is construed and it enables to achieve a flat on‐off gain (<±0.76 dB) across the L‐band spectrum. These results indicate that Er3+‐Tm3+ co‐doped hybridized gadolinium aluminosilicate glass fiber is a promising gain material for fiber amplifiers and demonstrate that the hybridization approach provides a new strategy for the development of novel active fiber device.
Boosting Efficiency in Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells with Novel HTLs and ETLs: A drift‐diffusion numerical study of CBz‐PAI Interlayers and MXene Back Contacts
Authors: Benatallah Mohamed Amine , Elmohri Abdennour , Bouderbala Yaacoub Ibrahim , Alam Mir Waqas , Rabhi Selma
Published: January 2025

In this study, the functioning of flexible perovskite solar cells (FPSCs) is examined using drift‐diffusion SCAPS‐1D simulations under ideal conditions. The focus is on the CBz‐PAI interlayer at the perovskite and hole transport layer (HTL) interface and the impact of innovative materials for HTLs, electrons transport layers (ETLs), and transparent conduction electrodes (TCOs), such as AZO and MXene, in the front and back contacts. Initially, 50 configurations of ETLs, including BaZrS3, SnS2, STO, WS2, and ZrS2, as well as HTLs such as ACZTSe, CuBiS3, CZGS, and D‐PBTTT‐14, are tested to identify optimal architecture for enhancing device efficiency. The incorporation of the CBz‐PAI interlayer effectively reduces interfacial charge recombination, minimizing VOC losses and boosting overall performance. After further optimization and the integration of MXene as a back contact, the final FPSC design (PET/ITO/AZO/ZrS2/(FAPbI3)0.77(MAPbBr3)0.14(CsPbI3)0.09/CBz‐PAI/CZGS/MXene‐V3C2F2) achieves an impressive PCE of 27.17%, setting a new benchmark for FPSC efficiency.
3D‐Printed Myocardium‐Specific Structure Enhances Maturation and Therapeutic Efficacy of Engineered Heart Tissue in Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Wu Yong , Wang Yaning , Xiao Miao , Zhang Guangming , Zhang Feixiang , Tang Mingliang , Lei Wei , Jiang Ziyun , Li Xiaoyun , Zhang Huiqi , Ren Xiaoyi , Xu Yue , Zhao Xiaotong , Guo Chenxu , Lan Hongbo , Shen Zhenya , Zhang Jianyi , Hu Shijun
Published: January 2025

Despite advancements in engineered heart tissue (EHT), challenges persist in achieving accurate dimensional accuracy of scaffolds and maturing human induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CMs), a primary source of functional cardiac cells. Drawing inspiration from cardiac muscle fiber arrangement, a three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed multi‐layered microporous polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold is created with interlayer angles set at 45° to replicate the precise structure of native cardiac tissue. Compared with the control group and 90° PCL scaffolds, the 45° PCL scaffolds exhibited superior biocompatibility for cell culture and improved hiPSC‐CM maturation in calcium handling. RNA sequencing demonstrated that the 45° PCL scaffold promotes the mature phenotype in hiPSC‐CMs by upregulating ion channel genes. Using the 45° PCL scaffold, a multi‐cellular EHT is successfully constructed, incorporating human cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells. These complex EHTs significantly enhanced hiPSC‐CM engraftment in vivo, attenuated ventricular remodeling, and improved cardiac function in mouse myocardial infarction. In summary, the myocardium‐specific structured EHT developed in this study represents a promising advancement in cardiovascular regenerative medicine.
Two Steps Li Ion Storage Mechanism in Ruddlesden–Popper Li2La2Ti3O10
Authors: Jang Mi , Hwang Sunhyun , Chae Ji Su , Jang Gun , Park Ho Seok , Lee Yunki , Choi JungHyun , Yoon Won‐Sub , Roh Kwang Chul
Published: January 2025

Innovative anode materials are essential for achieving high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with longer lifetimes. Thus far, only a few studies have explored the use of layered perovskite structures as LIB anode materials. In this study, the study demonstrates the performance and charge/discharge mechanism of the previously undefined Ruddlesden‐Popper Li₂La₂Ti₃O₁₀ (RPLLTO) as an anode material for LIBs. RPLLTO exhibits two unique voltage plateaus ≈0.6 and 0.4 V(vs Li/Li+), due to the insertion of lithium ions into different sites within its layered structure. The electrical state of Ti is analyzed using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X‐ray absorption near edge spectra, revealing a reduction from Ti⁴⁺ to Ti2⁺, corresponding to a capacity of 170 mAh·g⁻¹. In situ X‐ray diffraction patterns and extended X‐ray absorption fine structure spectra demonstrate the crystal structure changes during lithiation. Complementary expansion along the a/b axes and contraction along the c axis result in a volume change of only 4%. This structural stability is evidenced by an 88% capacity retention after 1000 cycles. This study successfully showcases the lithium‐ion storage capability of RPLLTO and contributes to the development of perovskite anode materials with diverse compositions and structures.
Combining Hard Shell with Soft Core to Enhance Enzyme Activity and Resist External Disturbances
Authors: Wang Yiwen , Tong Hongfei , Ni Shulan , Huo Kaiyuan , Liu Wenjie , Zan Xingjie , Yuan Xiaodie , Wang Shuangshuang
Published: January 2025

Immobilizing enzymes onto solid supports having enhanced catalytic activity and resistance to harsh external conditions is considered as a promising and critical method of broadening enzymatic applications in biosensing, biocatalysis, and biomedical devices; however, it is considerably hampered by limited strategies. Here, a core–shell strategy involving a soft‐core hexahistidine metal assembly (HmA) is innovatively developed and characterized with encapsulated enzymes (catalase (CAT), horseradish peroxidase, glucose oxidase (GOx), and cascade enzymes (CAT+GOx)) and hard porous shells (zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF), ZIF‐8, ZIF‐67, ZIF‐90, calcium carbonate, and hydroxyapatite). The enzyme‐friendly environment provided by the embedded HmA proves beneficial for enhanced catalytic activity, which is particularly effective in preserving fragile enzymes that will have been deactivated without the HmA core during the mineralization of porous shells. The enzyme encapsulated within a core–shell particle exhibits noteworthy resilience against harsh external conditions, including heat, organic solvents, and proteinase K. Additionally, no significant alteration in the catalytic behavior of the enzyme is observed after multiple cycles of usage. This study offers a novel approach for immobilizing enzymes and rendering them resistant to harsh external conditions, with potential applications in diverse fields, including biocatalysis, bioremediation, and biomedical engineering.
Phase Transition Process of Graphite to Diamond Induced by Monodispersed Tantalum Atoms at Ordinary Pressure
Authors: Zhu Zhiguang , Chen Chengke , Lu Shaohua , Li Xiao , Hu Xiaojun
Published: January 2025

The transformation of graphite into diamond (2–10 nm) at ordinary pressure by monodispersed Ta atoms was recently reported, while the effects of Ta concentration on the transition process remain obscure. Here, by regulating the Ta wire treatment time, as well as the annealing time and temperature, larger diamond grians (5–20 nm) are successfully synthesized, and the transition process of graphite to diamond is revealed to vary with Ta concentration. Specifically, short Ta wire treatments (5–10 min) induce graphite to form a “circle” structure and transforms into diamond directly after annealing. Long Ta wire treatments (15–25 min) produce larger and more “circle” structures, containing an increased number of graphite layers. After annealing at 1100 °C for 30–120 min, graphite first transforms into amorphous carbon, then to i‐Carbon and n‐Diamond, and finally to diamond. Notably, a large amount of n‐Diamond and diamond are formed after 120 min annealing. By modulating the annealing temperature from 500 to 1200 °C for 30 min, diamond is already obtained at 500 °C, and hexagonal diamond up to 20 nm in size at 1200 °C. This provides a fresh insight into the graphite/diamond transition process and an approach for diamond synthesis.
ZnFe Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheets Loaded with Cu Single‐Atom Nanozymes with Multi‐Enzyme‐Like Catalytic Activities as an Effective Treatment for Bacterial Keratitis
Authors: Wang Keke , Yuan Mao‐sen , Dai Pengxiu , Li Jing , Tao Anju , Zhang Xinke , Wang Jinyi , Tu Qin
Published: January 2025

Bacterial keratitis (BK) is a type of corneal inflammation resulting from bacterial infection in the eye. Although nanozymes have been explored as promising materials in corneal wound healing, currently available nanozymes lack sufficient catalytic activity and the ability to penetrate bacterial biofilms, limiting their efficacy against the treatment of BK. To remedy this, ZnFe layered double hydroxide (ZnFe‐LDH) nanosheets are loaded with Cu single‐atom nanozymes (Cu‐SAzymes) and aminated dextran (Dex‐NH2), resulting in the formation of the nanozyme DT‐ZnFe‐LDH@Cu, which possesses peroxidase (POD)‐, oxidase (OXD)‐, and catalase (CAT)‐like catalytic activities. This enables the nanozyme to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydroxyl radicals (•OH), superoxide anion radical (O2•−), and singlet oxygen (1O2) from hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), thereby killing the bacteria causing the infections. The surface Dex‐NH2 enabled the DT‐ZnFe‐LDH@Cu to penetrate the biofilm and adsorb onto extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) produced by bacteria in the biofilm. Additionally, the DT‐ZnFe‐LDH@Cu successfully repaired P. aeruginosa‐infected corneal injury in a BK rabbit model more effectively than commercially available tobramycin eye drops. This was enabled, in part, by the ability of DT‐ZnFe‐LDH@Cu to reduce inflammation by promoting the polarization of pro‐inflammatory macrophages (M1) to anti‐inflammatory macrophages (M2) and decrease the expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) to promote wound healing without scar formation. This study provides an innovative concept for the treatment of BK and holds great scientific value and clinical application potential.
Omnidirectional 3D Printing of PEDOT: PSS Aerogels with Tunable Electromechanical Performance: A Playground for Unconventional Stretchable Interconnects and Thermoelectrics
Authors: Baysal Hasan Emre , Yu Tzu‐Yi , Naenen Viktor , De Smedt Stijn , Hiz Defne , Zhang Bokai , Xia Heyi , Florenciano Isidro , Rosenthal Martin , Cardinaels Ruth , Molina‐Lopez Francisco
Published: January 2025

The next generation of soft electronics will expand to the third dimension. This will require the integration of mechanically compliant 3D functional structures with stretchable materials. Here, omnidirectional direct ink writing (DIW) of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) aerogels with tunable electrical and mechanical performance is demonstrated, which can be integrated with soft substrates. Several PEDOT:PSS hydrogels are formulated for DIW and freeze‐dried directly on stretchable substrates to form integrated aerogels displaying high shape fidelity and minimal shrinkage. This technology demonstrates 3D‐structured stretchable interconnects, planar thermoelectric generators for skin electronics, and vertically printed high aspect ratio thermoelectric pillars with ultralow thermal conductivity of 0.065 W m−1 K−1. The aerogel pillars outpower their dense counterparts in realistic energy harvesting scenarios, where contact resistances cannot be ignored and produced up to 26 nW cm−2 (corresponding to a gravimetric power density of 0.76 mW kg−1) for a difference of temperature of 15 K. Here, promising advancements in soft and energy‐efficiency electronic systems relevant to soft robotics and wearables are suggested.
Advanced Morphological and Material Engineering for High‐Performance Interfacial Iontronic Pressure Sensors
Authors: Zhuo Fengling , Ding Zhi , Yang Xi , Chu Fengjian , Liu Yulu , Gao Zhuoqing , Jin Hao , Dong Shurong , Wang Xiaozhi , Luo Jikui
Published: January 2025

High‐performance flexible pressure sensors are crucial for applications such as wearable electronics, interactive systems, and healthcare technologies. Among these, iontronic pressure sensors have garnered particular attention due to their superior sensitivity, enabled by the giant capacitance variation of the electric double layer (EDL) at the ionic‐electronic interface under deformation. Key advancements, such as incorporating microstructures into ionic layers and employing diverse materials, have significantly improved sensor properties like sensitivity, accuracy, stability, and response time. This review highlights advancements in flexible EDL pressure sensors, focusing on structural designs and material engineering. These strategies are tailored to optimize key metrics such as sensitivity, detection limit, linearity, stability, response speed, hysteresis, transparency, wearability, selectivity, and multifunctionality. Key fabrication techniques, including micropatterning and externally assisted methods, are reviewed, along with strategies for sensor comparison and guidelines for selecting appropriate sensors. Emerging applications in healthcare, environmental and aerodynamic sensing, human–machine interaction, robotics, and machine learning‐assisted intelligent sensing are explored. Finally, this review discusses the challenges and future directions for advancing EDL‐based pressure sensors.
Ferroelectric and Optoelectronic Coupling Effects in Layered Ferroelectric Semiconductor‐Based FETs for Visual Simulation
Authors: Zhao Can , Gao Zhaotan , Hong Zian , Guo Hongzhi , Cheng Zhili , Li Yawei , Shang Liyan , Zhu Liangqing , Zhang Jinzhong , Hu Zhigao
Published: January 2025

Controlling polarization states of ferroelectrics can enrich optoelectronic properties and functions, offering a new avenue for designing advanced electronic and optoelectronic devices. Here, ferroelectric semiconductor‐based field‐effect transistors (FeSFETs) are fabricated, where the channel is a ferroelectric semiconductor (e.g., α‐In2Se3). Multiple conductance states are achieved in α‐In2Se3‐based FeSFETs by controlling the ferroelectric polarization. The on/off current ratio (Ion/Ioff) is ≈105 with a dark current of ≈10−11 A by applying a single positive gate voltage pulse. Moreover, the device shows excellent endurance and retention performance. In a further step, the carrier transports and corresponding physics mechanism in various polarization states are studied by using Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) and optoelectronic measurements. Finally, the α‐In2Se3‐based FETs can be trained. It can recognize handwritten digit images from MNIST dataset with a successful recognition accuracy of ≈95.5%. This work provides a new design idea and theoretical support for advanced optoelectronic devices in the field of in‐memory sensing and computing.
Significant Efficiency Enhancements in Non‐Y Series Acceptors by the Addition of Outer Side Chains
Authors: He Qiao , Hadmojo Wisnu Tantyo , Hu Xiantao , Mukherjee Subhrangsu , Alqurashi Maryam , Althobaiti Wejdan , De Castro Catherine S. P. , Lee Byongkyu , Ding Bowen , Luke Joel , Kafourou Panagiota , Fei Zhuping , White Andrew J. P. , Gorenflot Julien , Glöcklhofer Florian , Laquai Frédéric , Ade Harald , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , Heeney Martin
Published: January 2025

Most current highly efficient organic solar cells utilize small molecules like Y6 and its derivatives as electron acceptors in the photoactive layer. In this work, a small molecule acceptor, SC8‐IT4F, is developed through outer side chain engineering on the terminal thiophene of a conjugated 6,12‐dihydro‐dithienoindeno[2,3‐d:2′,3′‐d′]‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene (IDTT) central core. Compared to the reference molecule C8‐IT4F, which lacks outer side chains, SC8‐IT4F displays notable differences in molecule geometry (as shown by simulations), thermal behavior, single‐crystal packing, and film morphology. Blend films of SC8‐IT4F and the polymer donor PM6 exhibit larger carrier mobilities, longer carrier lifetimes, and reduced recombination compared to C8‐IT4F, resulting in improved device performance. Binary photovoltaic devices based on the PM6:SC8‐IT4F films reveal an optimal efficiency over 15%, which is one of the best values for non‐Y type small molecule acceptors (SMAs). The resultant devices also show better thermal and operational stability than the control PM6:L8‐BO devices. SC8‐IT4F and its blend exhibit a higher relative degree of crystallinity and π coherence length, compared to C8‐IT4F samples, beneficial for charge transport and device performance. The results indicate that outer side chain engineering on existing small electron acceptors can be a promising molecular design strategy for further pursuing high‐performance organic solar cells.
Efficient Carbon‐Based Optoelectronic Synapses for Dynamic Visual Recognition
Authors: Liu Wenhao , Wang Jihong , Guo Jiahao , Wang Lin , Gu Zhen , Wang Huifeng , Fang Haiping
Published: January 2025

The human visual nervous system excels at recognizing and processing external stimuli, essential for various physiological functions. Biomimetic visual systems leverage biological synapse properties to improve memory encoding and perception. Optoelectronic devices mimicking these synapses can enhance wearable electronics, with layered heterojunction materials being ideal materials for optoelectronic synapses due to their tunable properties and biocompatibility. However, conventional synthesis methods are complex and environmentally harmful, leading to issues such as poor stability and low charge transfer efficiency. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a more efficient, convenient, and eco‐friendly method for preparing layered heterojunction materials. Here, a one‐step ultrasonic method is employed to mix fullerene (C60) with graphene oxide (GO), yielding a homogeneous layered heterojunction composite film via self‐assembly. The biomimetic optoelectronic synapse based on this film achieves 97.3% accuracy in dynamic visual recognition tasks and exhibits capabilities such as synaptic plasticity. Experiments utilizing X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Fourier–transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy (UV‐vis), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirms stable π‐π interactions between GO and C60, facilitating electron transfer and prolonging carrier recombination times. The novel approach leveraging high‐density π electron materials advances artificial intelligence and neuromorphic systems.
Ischemic Area‐Targeting and Self‐Monitoring Nanoprobes Ameliorate Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Scavenging ROS and Counteracting Cardiac Inflammation
Authors: Ma Xiaobin , Fan Zhijin , Peng Jingyan , Nie Liming
Published: January 2025

Precise and effective management of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI) is still a formidable challenge in clinical practice. Additionally, real‐time monitoring of drug aggregation in the MIRI region remains an open question. Herein, a drug delivery system, hesperadin and ICG assembled in PLGA‐Se‐Se‐PEG‐IMTP (HI@PSeP‐IMTP), is designed to deliver hesperadin and ICG to the MIRI region for in vivo optical imaging tracking and to ameliorate MIRI. The peak aggregation of nanoprobes in the MIRI region is monitored by near‐infrared fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging. The maximal fluorescence and photoacoustic signals of the HI@PSeP‐IMTP group in the MIRI region rise ≈32% and 40% respectively compared with that of HI@PSeP group. Moreover, HI@PSeP‐IMTP effectively mitigates MIRI due to a synergistic integration of diselenide bonds and hesperadin, which can eliminate ROS and suppress cardiac inflammation. Specifically, the expression levels of p‐CaMKII, p‐IκBα, and p65 in the MIRI region in the HI@PSeP‐IMTP group demonstrate a reduction of 30%, 46%, and 42% respectively compared to that of the PBS group. Collectively, HI@PSeP‐IMTP provides new insights into the development of drugs integrating diagnosis and treatment for MIRI.
Hinged Carboxylate in the Artificial Distal Pocket of an Iron Porphyrin Enhances CO2 Electroreduction at Low Overpotential
Authors: Smith Adrien , Gotico Philipp , Guillot Régis , Le Gac Stéphane , Leibl Winfried , Aukauloo Ally , Boitrel Bernard , Sircoglou Marie , Halime Zakaria
Published: January 2025

To efficiently capture, activate, and transform small molecules, metalloenzymes have evolved to integrate a well‐organized pocket around the active metal center. Within this cavity, second coordination sphere functionalities are precisely positioned to optimize the rate, selectivity, and energy cost of catalytic reactions. Inspired by this strategy, an artificial distal pocket defined by a preorganized 3D strap is introduced on an iron‐porphyrin catalyst (sc‐Fe) for the CO2‐to‐CO electrocatalytic reduction. Combined electrochemical, kinetic, and computational studies demonstrate that the adequate positioning of a carboxylate/carboxylic group acting in synergy with a trapped water molecule within this distal pocket remarkably enhances the reaction turnover frequency (TOF) by four orders of magnitude compared to the perfluorinated iron‐tetraphenylporphyrin catalyst (F20Fe) operating at a similar low overpotential. A proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET) is found to be the key process responsible for the unexpected protonation of the coordinating carboxylate, which, upon CO2 insertion, shifts from the first to the second coordination sphere to play a possible secondary role as a proton relay.
Supramolecular Complexes of Ultrashort Cationic Lipopeptides with Cyclodextrins: Improved Selectivity and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Bellini Chiara , Atxabal Unai , Bősze Szilvia , Dobay Orsolya , Horváth Andrea , Szigyártó Imola Cs. , Beke‐Somfai Tamás , Jiménez‐Barbero Jesús , Puskás István , Horváti Kata
Published: January 2025

In the last decade, the rise of antibiotic resistance has heightened interest in antimicrobial peptides and lipopeptides as promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics because of their lower propensity to develop resistance. However, lipopeptides often show undesired cytotoxicity due to their non‐selective membrane disruptive effect, and their limited aqueous solubility represents a matter of concern from a pharmaceutical point of view. This study demonstrates a panel of ultrashort cationic lipopeptides (USCLs) consisting of a tetrapeptide (L1), originated from buforin II, coupled with saturated fatty acids of different lengths. Our results highlight that the 16‐carbon fatty acid lipopeptide (Pal‐L1) exhibits relevant antibacterial activity against multiresistant Staphylococcus aureus strain. However, the formation of heterogenic aggregates in cell culture medium and toxic effects on human cells were also observed. Pal‐L1 formulation with the randomly methylated α‐cyclodextrin (RAMEA) and the sulfobutylether‐β‐cyclodextrin (SBECD) has resulted in a production of ultralow‐sized molecular dispersion systems and reduced lipopeptide toxicity without compromising its antimicrobial activity. With titration 1H‐NMR, 2D NMR experiments, together with molecular dynamics simulations, we described the size, structure, stoichiometry, and dissociation constant of the supramolecular complexes. Interactions of neutral and negatively charged model liposomes with Pal‐L1 lipopeptide in the presence or absence of cyclodextrins serve an explanation for the membrane selectivity, and based on the results, we proposed a potential mechanism of action for the Pal‐L1+cyclodextrin complexes on different biological membranes. Overall, our model characterization points out that cyclodextrin formulation improves the therapeutical applicability of lipopeptides.
RYR3 Variants Are Potentially Associated With Idiopathic (Non‐Lesional) Partial Epilepsy/Susceptibility of Seizures, Toward Understanding the Gene‐Disease Association by Genetic Dependent Nature
Authors: Tian Yang , Hou Yun‐Qi , Zhai Qiong‐Xiang , Song Xing‐Wang , Li Bing‐Mei , Wang Jie , Ji Jing‐Jing , Liao Yin‐Ting , Chen Wen‐Xiong , Li Bin , Liao Wei‐Ping
Published: January 2025

The RYR3 gene encodes a brain‐type ryanodine receptor that functions to release calcium from intracellular storage and plays an essential role in calcium signaling. The associations between RYR3 variants and brain disorders remain unknown. We performed whole‐exome sequencing in patients with idiopathic (non‐lesional) partial epilepsy of unknown etiology. One de novo missense and six biallelic missense RYR3 variants were identified in seven unrelated cases. These variants had no or extremely low allele frequencies in the general population and were predicted to alter hydrogen bonds/decrease protein stability. Patients presented with partial seizures or secondarily generalized tonic–clonic seizures. All patients were seizure‐free with/without anti‐seizure treatment. Four showed antecedent febrile seizures, a typical susceptibility disorder that is related to the precipitating factor of fever. The genetic dependence nature (GDN) of RYR3, which is defined as the distinct impact of the absence of a gene on normal life, is “obligatory” (causing disease phenotypes). Complete abolishing of RYR3 results in abnormal phenotypes instead of lethality, whereas partial/mild impairment (usually more common) is associated with mild disease or increased susceptibility to disease, consistent with our findings. RYR3 is therefore potentially a candidate disease gene or susceptibility gene for idiopathic partial epilepsy.
Contrasting Mechanochromic Luminescence of Enantiopure and Racemic Pyrenylprolinamides: Elucidating Solid‐State Excimer Orientation by Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Ito Suguru , Wakiyama Shin , Chen Hao , Abekura Masato , Uekusa Hidehiro , Ikemura Ryoya , Imai Yoshitane
Published: January 2025

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) and mechanochromic luminescence (MCL) have independently made substantial progress in recent years. However, the exploration of MCL in solid‐state CPL materials, which holds practical significance, is still in its infancy. Herein, we report the MCL properties of readily accessible chiral pyrenylprolinamides bearing tert‐butoxycarbonyl (Boc) or 2,2,2‐trichloroethoxycarbonyl (Troc) groups. Enantiopure crystals of the Boc derivative display a greater MCL wavelength shift than racemic crystals, while the Troc derivative exhibit the opposite trend. Most notably, the enantiopure crystals show mechanochromic CPL. Unlike in previous examples, where CPL is quenched upon amorphization, robust CPL spectra were observed even in the amorphous states. By applying the excimer chirality rule, we have, for the first time, acquired insights into the excited‐state structures within mechanically generated amorphous states. These findings offer a novel design strategy for developing mechanochromic CPL materials, paving the way for the future advancements in this emerging field.
Catalytic Hydrogenation of CO2 by Direct Air Capture to Valuable C1 Products Using Homogenous Catalysts
Authors: Bhardwaj Ritu , Choudhury Joyanta
Published: January 2025

Growing atmospheric CO2 concentrations are a global concern and a primary factor contributing to global warming. Development of integrated CO2 capture and conversion protocols is necessary to mitigate this alarming challenge. Though CO2 hydrogenation to produce formic acid and methanol has seen many strides in the past decades, most studies utilize pure CO2 for this transformation. The CO2 concentration in the atmosphere stands at 400 ppm and reports that utilize direct air capture as the strategy to capture CO2 and utilize it for production of formic acid and methanol have only been reported in the past few years. This perspective summarizes such reports with a focus on the CO2‐capturing additive, reaction solvent, and the molecular catalyst used to affect the transformation.
Influence of Phosphorus Poisoning of Cu/SSZ‐13 Zeolite Catalysts on the SCR Performance
Authors: Guan Bin , Chen Junyan , Zhuang Zhongqi , Hu Xuehan , Zhu Chenyu , Ma Zeren , Zhao Sikai , Guo Jiangfeng , Yuan Yuheng , Dang Hongtao , Shu Kaiyou , Shi Kuangyi , Li Yuan , Yi Chao , Zeng Wenbo , Xu Chengze , Wei Zhihao , He Yang , Huang Zhen
Published: January 2025

Herein, the influence of phosphorus poisoning on the catalytic performance of Cu/SSZ‐13 zeolite catalysts for NOx emission decrease was studied. We conducted a detailed analysis of catalyst activity and N₂ selectivity in both fresh and P‐poisoned states, employing a range of advanced physicochemical characterization methods and in situ analyses. Our findings reveal a dual effect of phosphorus addition: Although it decreases the free Cu2+ species and specific surface area, leading to diminished SCR activity at low temperatures, it simultaneously reduces CuOx content, inhibiting nonselective NH3 oxidation at high temperatures and ultimately enhancing SCR activity under those conditions. These insights highlight the complex role of phosphorus in moderating catalyst behavior.
Delaying until it is definitely too late – A theoretical framework for explaining procrastination in estate planning
Authors: Tanner Michaela , Hofmann Roland , Klingsieck Katrin B.
Published: January 2025

Procrastination in estate planning poses significant challenges in personal financial planning. Despite recognizing its importance, many individuals delay estate planning, risking unplanned estate distribution and family conflicts. This procrastination, driven by discomfort and perceived ample time, leaves legacy unstructured, failing to meet the testator's wishes and needs. Understanding procrastination in estate planning is crucial as it affects financial security for surviving dependents and the orderly transfer of assets. Procrastination research, although extensive in academic and professional contexts, has not adequately addressed estate planning, leaving a gap in comprehending this behavior within financial decision‐making. This article systematically analyzes procrastination in estate planning, presenting a theoretical framework based on the Rubicon Model and incorporating the mood‐repair hypothesis and temporal motivation theory. It outlines the estate planning process, identifying phases where procrastination occurs and the possible reasons behind it. The framework explains how negative emotions and discounted future benefits contribute to delays, impacting the timely completion of estate plans. The article highlights the role of financial advisors in helping clients navigate estate planning, offering practical recommendations to improve client engagement and ensure better financial outcomes.
Actin Cytoskeleton at the Synapse: An Alzheimer's Disease Perspective
Authors: P A Haseena , Basavaraju Nimisha , Gupta Anant , Kommaddi Reddy Peera
Published: January 2025

Actin, a ubiquitous and highly conserved cytoskeletal protein, plays a pivotal role in various cellular functions such as structural support, facilitating cell motility, and contributing to the dynamic processes of synaptic function. Apart from its established role in inducing morphological changes, recent developments in the field indicate an active involvement of actin in modulating both the structure and function of pre‐ and postsynaptic terminals. Within the presynapse, it is involved in the organization and trafficking of synaptic vesicles, contributing to neurotransmitter release. In the postsynapse, actin dynamically modulates dendritic spines, influencing the postsynaptic density organization and anchoring of neurotransmitter receptors. In addition, the dynamic interplay of actin at the synapse underscores its essential role in regulating neural communication. This review strives to offer a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in understanding the multifaceted role of the actin cytoskeleton in synaptic functions. By emphasizing its aberrant regulation, we aim to provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology.
An Empathy Intervention Reduces the Gender Gap in School Discipline and Facilitates Belonging
Authors: Doyle Lewis , Harris Peter R. , Easterbrook Matthew J.
Published: January 2025

School disciplinary sanctions increase sharply during adolescence, with students from certain backgrounds disproportionately affected. Strong teacher–student relationships that cultivate trust, respect and empathy may be essential to buffer against these changes. This quasi‐experimental longitudinal field study trialled a brief empathic mindset intervention with teachers in English secondary schools and examined its effect on their students’ (N = 1347) behaviour records and perceptions of schooling. The intervention was associated with a greater sense of school belonging and a reduction in sanctions (particularly for boys), thereby signalling the importance of making students feel heard and respected.
Superior Regional Control and Laryngeal Function Preservation With Radiotherapy Versus Partial Laryngectomy: A Propensity Score‐Matched Analysis of 562 Early Glottic Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhang Shaoqiu , Li Ruichen , Zhao Yang , Zhu Liting , Guo Ming , Wang Xiaoshen , Zhu Yi
Published: January 2025

Objectives

We aimed to compare the outcomes of patients with T1‐T2N0M0 glottic squamous cell carcinoma who underwent either partial laryngectomy (PL) or radiotherapy (RT).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 562 patients treated with RT (n = 151) or PL (n = 411) was conducted. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate outcomes. The risk factors were identified using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to adjust for baseline variations.

Results

Post‐PSM, the 5‐year overall survival (89.4% vs. 88.4%, p = 0.879), 5‐year cancer‐specific survival (91.9% vs. 90.1%, p = 0.554), and 5‐year local relapse‐free survival (87.2% vs. 89.3%, p = 0.487) rates did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, the 5‐year regional relapse‐free survival rate was significantly higher in the RT group than that in the PL group (99.3% vs. 93.3%, p = 0.009). Recurrence was most likely to occur in the lymph nodes at levels II and III. Supraglottic engagement has emerged as an independent prognostic factor for regional relapse in T2 stage diagnosed PL. The RT group demonstrated significantly superior speech function (mean: 6.065) compared to the PL group (mean: 10.650, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

RT yielded survival rates, local control, and laryngeal preservation comparable to PL. RT is associated with a higher regional control rate in T2 patients. Supraglottic involvement is an independent risk factor for regional relapse in patients with T2 disease after PL. The RT group exhibited extremely low complication rates and significantly improved speech function.
Association between Parkinson's disease and risk of colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Su Meng‐Dan , Wang Tian‐Hong , Zhang Hao‐Wen , Cao Ke‐Yu , Liu Fei
Published: January 2025

This study aims to investigate the relationship between Parkinson's disease (PD) and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk by a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Using Embase, Pubmed, and Cochrane Library databases, 21 articles reporting clinical data of 1,635,873 PD patients and 10,388,842 healthy individuals were finally included. Based on the results of pooled analysis, we found that PD patients exhibited a decreased risk of CRC (relative risk (RR) = 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.68–0.80). In contrast to case‐control (RR = 0.80; 95% CI, 0.64–1) and cohort studies (RR = 0.72; 95% CI, 0.66–0.79), the combined risk of PD patients with CRC in Asian nations (RR = 0.67; 95% CI, 0.58–0.78) was lower than that in Western countries (RR = 0.76; 95% CI, 0.70–0.82). In comparison to rectal cancer (RR = 0.82; 95% CI, 0.69–0.97), PD patients exhibited a lower combined risk of colon cancer (RR = 0.76; 95% CI, 0.67–0.86). Furthermore, the combined CRC risks for patients in studies published before 2010 and after 2010 were 0.76 (RR = 0.76; 95% CI, 0.66–0.88) and 0.74 (RR = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.68–0.80), respectively. These findings indicate that patients with PD had a reduced risk of CRC. Future studies are merited in exploring pathological molecular linkages or underlying mechanisms of inverse association between CRC and PD.
A case of intrascrotal fibrous pseudotumor caused by scrotal puncture
Authors: Kawasoe Chihiro , Nishimoto Koshiro , Wakimura Nao , Kamibeppu Toyoharu , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Ueno Shinichiro , Kamoto Toshiyuki , Sawada Atsuro
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Intrascrotal tumors are relatively rare. Differentiating benign intrascrotal tumors from malignant tumors is frequently difficult. Here, we report a case of benign fibrous pseudotumor following puncture of a hydrocele and loss of the left testis.

Case presentation

A 65‐year‐old man complained of a left hydrocele and underwent scrotal puncture three times. The patient had painful enlargement of the left scrotum and was diagnosed with a malignant tumor in his scrotum based on cytological results and imaging test findings, including ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. The patient underwent high inguinal orchiectomy; the patient was finally diagnosed with fibrous pseudotumor.

Conclusion

Puncture of the scrotum may be considered a cause of fibrous pseudotumors.
Bridging attachment theory and interpersonal acceptance‐rejection theory in the strange situation procedure in a low‐risk sample in Egypt
Authors: Zaki Nour M. , Shehata Maya A.
Published: January 2025

This study is the first to explore the relation between children's attachment classifications, assessed by Mary Ainsworth's Strange Situation Procedure (SSP), and mothers’ acceptance‐rejection behaviors from the lens of Interpersonal Acceptance‐Rejection Theory (IPARTheory). As a pilot study, the sample consisted of 23 Egyptian mother‐child dyads. The mean age of children in the SSP was 18.6 months (SD = 3.10). Mothers’ acceptance‐rejection behaviors were explored through the Parental Acceptance‐Rejection/Control Questionnaire (PARQ/Control). The pilot study's findings revealed that maternal acceptance‐rejection behaviors significantly differed across children's attachment classifications. The findings also shed light on gender differences in parenting, as mothers tended to show a higher level of hostility/aggression, undifferentiated rejection, and control with their daughters more than sons. This study is an important stepping‐stone for attachment research in the Arab world. It highlights several cultural aspects to be taken into account for future research using the SSP in Egypt or any other Arab country.
Evaluating Bone Fracture Healing in a Rabbit Model Using Doppler Imaging Modes, Shear Wave Elastography, X‐Ray, and Dual‐Energy X‐Ray Absorptiometry
Authors: Machado Priscilla , Blackman Rachel , Liu Ji‐Bin , Dempsey Colleen , Forsberg Flemming , Fox Traci
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study investigated methods of evaluating the bone fracture healing process using superb microvascular imaging (SMI; two modes color SMI [cSMI] and monochromeSMI [mSMI]), and shear wave elastography (SWE), relative to X‐ray, dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA), and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM‐1) also know as cluster of differentiation 31 (CD‐31) staining in a rabbit model.

Methods

This IACUC‐approved study involved eight rabbits that underwent a bilateral fibula osteotomy and were followed for 7 or 21 days (Groups 1 and 2 with 4 rabbits in each). Ultrasound examinations using cSMI, mSMI, and SWE were performed on Days 0, 4, 7, 14, and 21 post‐surgery. At the final time point, rabbits had X‐ray imaging followed by euthanasia and DXA scan. Finally, the fracture areas underwent decalcification, and specimens were stained with CD‐31 for pathological analysis. Ultrasound and X‐ray findings were compared using ANOVAs or paired t‐tests with CD‐31 stains and DXA was used as a reference.

Results

Comparing SMI ultrasound images between the last time points for Group 1 (Day 7) and Group 2 (Day 21) showed no statistical significance difference for cSMI (P = .14) and mSMI (P = .06), similarly when compared with CD‐31 stains there was no statistical significance difference for cSMI in Group 2 (P = .13). The SWE ultrasound images from the last time points in Groups 1 and showed no statistical significance difference (P = .33), the same results were then compared with DXA and also showed no statistical significance difference (P = .14). When comparing results of the X‐ray images from the last time points for Groups 1 and 2 a statistical significance difference was found (P = .01), and when X‐ray images were compared with DXA there was a statistical significance difference (P < .001).

Conclusion

Compared with CD‐31 stains cSMI on Day 21 was not statistically significant (P = .13). Results comparing SWE with DXA were also not statistically significant (P = .14). These results indicate the potential of using certain ultrasound imaging techniques to monitor the bone fracture healing process.