bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KITexon 17 mutations are predictive of inferior outcome in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia withRUNX1::RUNX1T1
Authors: Srinivasan Shyam , Dhamne Chetan , Patkar Nikhil , Chatterjee Gaurav , Moulik Nirmalya Roy , Chichra Akanksha , Pallath Aneeta , Tembhare Prashant , Shetty Dhanalaxmi , Subramanian P. G. , Narula Gaurav , Banavali Shripad
Published: November 2023

Background

Pediatric core binding factor acute myeloid leukemia (CBF‐AML), although considered a favorable risk subtype, exhibits variable outcomes primarily driven by additional genetic abnormalities, such asKITmutations.

Procedure

In this study, we examined the prognostic impact ofKITmutations in 130 pediatric patients with CBF‐AML, treated uniformly at a single center over 4 years (2017–2021).KITmutations were detected via next‐generation sequencing using a myeloid panel comprising 52 genes for most patients.

Results

Our findings revealed thatKITmutations were present in 31% of CBF‐AML cases. Exon 17KITmutation was most commonly (72%) seen with notable occurrences at the D816 and N822 residue in 48% and 39% of cases, respectively. The 3‐year cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) and overall survival (OS) for patients with exon 17KITmutation were 36% and 40%, respectively, and was significantly worse in comparison to other siteKITmutations (3‐year CIR: 11%; OS: 64%) and withoutKITmutation (3‐year CIR: 13%; OS:71%). Notably, the prognostic impact ofKITmutations was prominent in patients withRUNX1::RUNX1T1, but not in those withCBFB::MYH11fusion. Additionally, a highKITvariant‐allele frequency (VAF) (>33%) predicted for a higher disease relapse; 3‐year CIR of 40% for VAF greater than 33% versus 7% for VAF less than 33%. When adjusted for site ofKITmutation and end‐of‐induction measurable residual disease, VAF greater than 33% correlated with poor OS (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.4 [95% CI: 1.2–17.2],p = .034).

Conclusion

Exon 17KITmutations serve as an important predictor of relapse inRUNX1::RUNX1T1pediatric AML. In addition, a highKITVAF may predict poor outcomes in these patients. These results emphasize the need to incorporateKITmutational analysis into risk stratification for pediatric CBF‐AML.
Poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐butyl acrylate) copolymer/Ag nanocomposites prepared by latex mixing for multifunctional coatings
Authors: Li Hui , Luo Rong , Qu Jianbo
Published: November 2023

Inspired by mussel chemistry, we presented a facile and eco‐friendly method to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using dopamine as a reductant and stabilizer. The synthesized AgNPs as an antibacterial agent and photothermal filler were further introduced to random copolymers of methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate (MMA‐co‐BA) via latex mixing. The morphology and structure of the formed AgNPs were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV–Vis spectrum, and x‐ray powder diffraction (XRD). The results showed that the synthesized AgNPs were spherical in the size of 5–30 nm with the characteristic crystalline structure of AgNPs. Mechanical properties of MMA‐co‐BA were significantly enhanced by the introduction of AgNPs. The MMA‐co‐BA/Ag nanocomposite films showed antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. Moreover, the scratches on the MMA‐co‐BA/Ag nanocomposite film can be healed under infrared light irradiation, which indicated that AgNPs enhanced the self‐healing ability of the MMA‐co‐BA. This work offers a viable avenue for developing antibacterial activity and self‐healing multifunctional coatings.

Highlights

Silver nanoparticles modified by dopamine are introduced to acrylic copolymer.

Acrylic copolymer/Ag nanocomposites exhibit antibacterial activity.

Acrylic copolymer/Ag nanocomposites have photothermal performance.

Acrylic copolymer/Ag nanocomposites have self‐healing ability.
Fetal macrocephaly: Pathophysiology, prenatal diagnosis and management
Authors: Shinar Shiri , Chitayat David , Shannon Patrick , Blaser Susan
Published: November 2023

Macrocephaly means a large head and is defined as a head circumference (HC) above the 98th percentile or greater than +2SD above the mean for gestational age. Macrocephaly can be primary and due to increased brain tissue (megalocephaly), which in most cases is familial and benign or secondary. The latter may be due to various causes, including but not limited to communicating or non‐communicating hydrocephalus, cerebral edema, focal and pericerebral increased fluid collections, thickened calvarium and brain tumors. Megalocephaly can be syndromic or non‐syndromic. In the former, gyral and structural CNS anomalies are common. It is important to exercise caution when considering a diagnosis of megalocephaly due to limitations in the accuracy of HC measurement, lack of nomograms for specific populations, inconsistencies between prenatal and postnatal HC growth curves and progression over time. The degree of macrocephaly is important, with mild macrocephaly ≤2.5SD carrying a good prognosis, especially when one of the parents has macrocephaly and normal development. Cases in which the patient history and/or physical exam are positive or when parental HC are normal are more worrisome and warrant a neurosonogram, fetal MRI and genetic testing to better delineate the underlying etiology and provide appropriate counseling.
Nickel‐coated carbon fillers for polyurethane foam with improved microwave absorption performance: A comparative analysis
Authors: Kurt Gökçe , Korkmaz Mehmet , Kasgoz Alper
Published: November 2023

In this study, polyurethane foam (PUF) composites were prepared by incorporating different functional fillers, and morphological, rheological, dielectric, and microwave absorption properties of these composite samples were investigated. Graphite (G), nickel (Ni), nickel‐coated hybrid carbon (NiC), and iron II‐III oxide (Fe3O4) powders were used as functional fillers, while rigid polyurethane foam (PUF) with a 40 kg/m3 density and a closed‐cell structure was used as the carrier foam phase. Morphological analyses that were carried out by scanning electron microscopy showed that all fillers were dispersed between the cell walls. In dielectric characterization, the highest electrical permittivity values were obtained by incorporation of G, while the highest magnetic permeability values were obtained by incorporation of Fe3O4 at the same filler concentration. Furthermore, the PUF composites could be prepared using NiC at a higher filler concentration than the others due to the lower viscosity increasing effect of NiC. The highest microwave absorption performance was obtained in the NiC‐filled PUF composite at a filler concentration of 120 phr. The minimum reflection loss (RL) value of −45.2 dB at 10.62 GHz and an RL value lower than −10 dB in the entire X‐band region were obtained in the NiC‐filled PUF composite.

Highlights

Nickel‐coated carbon (NiC) filled polyurethane foam (PUF) was prepared.

The absorption performance of NiC was compared to conventional filler.

PUF composites containing NiC showed lower viscosity and processability.

The highest absorption could be obtained by NiC compared to conventional fillers.
Improved pressure‐sensitive adhesive performance using carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals via blending
Authors: Movafagh Maryam , Meek Kelly M. , Bayat Parisa , Cranston Emily D. , Cunningham Michael , Champagne Pascale , Morse Timothy , Kiriakou Michael , George Sean , Dubé Marc A.
Published: November 2023

Carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals (cCNCs) were blended with high‐quality commercial latex to enhance key pressure‐sensitive adhesive (PSA) properties: tack, peel strength, and shear adhesion. Initially, a 25–1 fractional factorial design was used to evaluate the effect of five factors: cCNC type (never‐dried vs. dried re‐dispersed), the use of sonication to disperse the cCNC, cCNC loading, blend temperature, and mixing speed. The regression analysis identified optimal blend conditions and the three most significant factors. It was found that increasing mixing speed had the strongest positive impact on all three PSA properties. A subsequent design of experiments looked at using a different mixing system—a homogenizer—and the data were viewed relative to the mixing power. Further increase in mixing beyond the original design framework led to increase in shear adhesion but decreased tack and peel strength. Nevertheless, in all cases, the PSA properties of the blended latexes exceeded that of the base‐case latex without cCNCs. The second factor of importance was the cCNC loading. The blending of cCNCs at levels beginning at 0.5 phm (parts per hundred parts monomer) led to the simultaneous improvement in all three PSA properties compared to the base‐case latex. The 1 phm level appeared to provide the best impact on the PSA properties. Finally, the need to sonicate the cCNCs dispersions before blending was significant. The results were further supported by rheological measurements, which demonstrated significant increase in viscosity with cCNC addition. This study clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of cCNC blending to improve all PSA properties simultaneously and provides practical insights for industrial‐scale application.
Spectroscopic pressure investigation of a novel high energy system
Authors: Neal Sabine N. , Patel Rajen B. , Stepanov Victor , Tenney Samuel A.
Published: November 2023

This work combines a novel multimodal spectroscopic technique, O‐PTIR and Raman spectroscopy, which allows for the simultaneous collection of infrared and Raman spectra, with traditional diamond anvil cell techniques to explore pressure induced phase transitions in a high energy material. Two phase transitions are revealed, with the first transition emerging below 0.23 GPa, to a higher order phase, followed by a broad transition to a lower order phase. Aside from the pressure studies, hyperspectral imaging was performed, confirming the homogeneous nature of the system.
Disruption of semiochemical‐mediated movement by the immature Trogoderma variabile Baillon and Trogoderma inclusum Le Conte (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) after exposure to long‐lasting insecticide‐incorporated netting
Authors: Ranabhat Sabita , Domingue Michael J. , Lebar Luke , Bingham Georgina V. , Zhu Kun Yan , Morrison William R.
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Highly mobile stored product insects may be able to readily orient in response to food cues and pheromones to attack durable commodities at each link of the postharvest supply chain. A 0.4% deltamethrin‐incorporated long‐lasting insecticide‐incorporated netting (LLIN) is a successful novel preventative integrated pest management (IPM) tactic to intercept dispersing insects after harvest. However, it is unknown whether exposure to LLIN may affect olfaction and orientation to important semiochemicals by immature stored product dermestids, therefore the aim of this study was to assess whether exposure to LLIN disrupts the normal olfactory and chemotactic behavior of warehouse beetle, Trogoderma variabile Ballion (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), and the larger cabinet beetle, T. inclusum Le Conte (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), larval movement in the presence of important semiochemicals, including food kairomones (e.g., flour) and pheromones, e.g., (Z)‐14‐methyl‐8‐hexadecenal.

RESULTS

The distance moved by the larval population of T. variabile was reduced by 64% after 24‐h exposure to LLIN compared to control netting but not immediately after exposure, while T. inclusum larvae movement was reduced by 50% after 24‐h exposure to LLIN compared to the control netting. Generally, the olfaction and orientation of larval dermestids were affected after exposure to LLIN compared to control netting. There were species‐linked differences in effects on olfaction after the insects were exposed to LLIN.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests the use of LLIN may enhance the effectiveness of other concurrent behaviorally‐based strategies such as mating disruption when used as part of a comprehensive IPM program in the postharvest environment. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Doped HfOx Nanoclusters: Polar and Resistive Switching in the Smallest Functional Units
Authors: Rushchanskii Konstantin Z. , Ležaić Marjana , Blügel Stefan
Published: November 2023

In the study presented in this article, the impact of proton doping on the structural and electronic properties of hafnium oxide nanoclusters is investigated, with a focus on their potential for use in resistive and polar switching devices. In the results, it is shown that the incorporation of protons can stabilize the cage‐like crystalline structures of clusters, leading to reversible changes in electronic properties by varying oxygen stoichiometry. However, the full coverage of hafnia atoms by hydrogen removes in‐gap states, highlighting the importance of controlled moisture content in redox‐based memristive devices and neuromorphic units. In addition, in this study, the polar properties of these clusters are explored, illustrating possible polar switching in metastable pure , low‐barrier antiferroelectric‐like switching in carbon‐stabilized , and low‐barrier polar switching in . In these findings, the potential of clusters is revealed as active components for next‐generation high‐capacity nonvolatile electronic memory and beyond von Neumann computing in sub‐nanometer scale.
Initial Decomposition Mechanism of H2O2 at High Temperature and Pressure
Authors: Zheng Wei , Hong Dan , Liu Fu-Sheng , Liu Zheng-Tang , Liu Qi-Jun
Published: November 2023

In recent years, H2O2 as an excellent rocket propellant has been widely studied. Herein, the initial decomposition mechanism of H2O2 is studied in detail by molecular dynamics simulation based on density functional theory. It is found that when the energy input to H2O2 is low, the mechanism of intermolecular hydrogen transfer is dominant. With the increase of input energy, the breaking of O–O becomes the first step of the initial reaction, H–O fracture becomes the second step, and finally the transfer of hydrogen to produce H2O and HO2.
Anomalous Loss Reduction Below Two‐Level System Saturation in Aluminum Superconducting Resonators
Authors: Tai Tamin , Cai Jingnan , Anlage Steven M.
Published: November 2023

Superconducting resonators are widely used in many applications such as qubit readout for quantum computing, and kinetic inductance detectors. These resonators are susceptible to numerous loss and noise mechanisms, especially the dissipation due to two‐level systems (TLS) which become the dominant source of loss in the few‐photon and low temperature regime. In this study, capacitively‐coupled aluminum half‐wavelength coplanar waveguide resonators are investigated. Surprisingly, the loss of the resonators is observed to decrease with a lowering temperature at low excitation powers and temperatures below the TLS saturation. This behavior is attributed to the reduction of the TLS resonant response bandwidth with decreasing temperature and power to below the detuning between the TLS and the resonant photon frequency in a discrete ensemble of TLS. When response bandwidths of TLS are smaller than their detunings from the resonance, the resonant response and thus the loss is reduced. At higher excitation powers, the loss follows a logarithmic power dependence, consistent with predictions from the generalized tunneling model (GTM). A model combining the discrete TLS ensemble with the GTM is proposed and matches the temperature and power dependence of the measured internal loss of the resonator with reasonable parameters.
The association between various viral infections and multiple sclerosis: An umbrella review on systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bakhshi Arash , Eslami Narges , Norouzi Naeim , Letafatkar Negin , Amini‐Salehi Ehsan , Hassanipour Soheil
Published: November 2023

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the immune‐mediated demyelinating disorders. Multiple components, including the environment and genetics, are possible factors in the pathogenesis of MS. Also, it can be said that infections are a key component of the host's response to MS development. Finally, we evaluated the relationship between different pathogens and MS disease in this umbrella research. We systematically collected and analysed multiple meta‐analyses focused on one particular topic. We utilised the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases starting with inception until 30 May 2023. The methodological quality of the analysed meta‐analysis has been determined based on Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 and Grade, and graph construction and statistical analysis were conducted using Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis. The Confidence Interval of effect size was 95% in meta‐analyses, and p < 0.05 indicated a statistically meaningful relationship. The included studies evaluated the association between MS and 12 viruses containing SARS‐CoV‐2, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), Hepatitis B virus, varicella–zoster virus (VZV), human herpesvirus 6 (HHV‐6), HHV‐7, HHV‐8, HSV‐1, HSV‐2, Cytomegalovirus, Human Papillomavirus, and influenza. SARS‐CoV‐2, with a 3.74 odds ratio, has a significantly more potent negative effect on MS among viral infections. After that, EBV, HHV‐6, HSV‐2, and VZV, respectively, with 3.33, 2.81, 1.76, and 1.72 odds ratios, had a significantly negative relationship with MS (p < 0.05). Although the theoretical evidence mostly indicates that EBV has the greatest effect on MS, recent epidemiological studies have challenged this conclusion and put forward possibilities that SARS‐CoV‐2 is the culprit. Hence, it was necessary to investigate the effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 and EBV on MS.
Unified synchronization and fault‐tolerant anti‐disturbance control for synchronization of multiple memristor‐based neural networks
Authors: Satheesh T. , Sakthivel R. , Aravinth N. , Karimi H.R.
Published: November 2023

This work primarily concentrates on the design of fault‐tolerant anti‐disturbance control for synchronization of multiple memristor‐based neural networks subject to time delay, matched and mismatched disturbances. Moreover, in the addressed network model, we consider parameter uncertainties and actuator faults. Firstly in order to estimate the matched disturbances generated by the exogenous system, a disturbance observer is devised. Whereas, the mismatched part is tackled by employing the mixed and passivity performance indexes. Subsequently, a unified controller is designed by incorporating error feedback control and the disturbance estimate. Further, with the assistance of Lyapunov stability theory and linear matrix inequality technique, an adequate criteria is procured to ascertain the required synchronization criteria for the assayed network model with the mixed and passivity performance indexes. Following this, by basing on the established conditions, the explicit form of the controller and observer gain matrices is obtained. In the end, a numerical example with simulation results is shown to confirm the potential and usefulness of the conclusions acquired from the theoretical analysis.
Bayesian safety surveillance with adaptive bias correction
Authors: Bu Fan , Schuemie Martijn J. , Nishimura Akihiko , Smith Louisa H. , Kostka Kristin , Falconer Thomas , McLeggon Jody‐Ann , Ryan Patrick B. , Hripcsak George , Suchard Marc A.
Published: November 2023

Postmarket safety surveillance is an integral part of mass vaccination programs. Typically relying on sequential analysis of real‐world health data as they accrue, safety surveillance is challenged by sequential multiple testing and by biases induced by residual confounding in observational data. The current standard approach based on the maximized sequential probability ratio test (MaxSPRT) fails to satisfactorily address these practical challenges and it remains a rigid framework that requires prespecification of the surveillance schedule. We develop an alternative Bayesian surveillance procedure that addresses both aforementioned challenges using a more flexible framework. To mitigate bias, we jointly analyze a large set of negative control outcomes that are adverse events with no known association with the vaccines in order to inform an empirical bias distribution, which we then incorporate into estimating the effect of vaccine exposure on the adverse event of interest through a Bayesian hierarchical model. To address multiple testing and improve on flexibility, at each analysis timepoint, we update a posterior probability in favor of the alternative hypothesis that vaccination induces higher risks of adverse events, and then use it for sequential detection of safety signals. Through an empirical evaluation using six US observational healthcare databases covering more than 360 million patients, we benchmark the proposed procedure against MaxSPRT on testing errors and estimation accuracy, under two epidemiological designs, the historical comparator and the self‐controlled case series. We demonstrate that our procedure substantially reduces Type 1 error rates, maintains high statistical power and fast signal detection, and provides considerably more accurate estimation than MaxSPRT. Given the extensiveness of the empirical study which yields more than 7 million sets of results, we present all results in a public R ShinyApp. As an effort to promote open science, we provide full implementation of our method in the open‐source R package EvidenceSynthesis.
Vitamin C supplementation alleviates hypercortisolemia caused by chronic stress
Authors: Beglaryan Narine , Hakobyan Gagik , Nazaretyan Eduard
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to determine whether ascorbic acid (AA) supplementation can lower plasma levels of Cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone‐sulphate (DHEA‐S) in patients diagnosed with functional hypercortisolemia due to unspecified chronic stress. Study includes data from 69 female with elevations in the cortisol and DHEA‐S levels. Duration of follow‐up was 2 months. Patients were divided into 3 groups. Group I included patients 23 with elevated cortisol, Group II—patients 24 with elevated levels of both hormones, Group III‐ patients 22 with normal cortisol and increased DHEA‐S. Each group was randomly divided into two subgroups. The first subgroup was prescribed 1000 mg daily oral dose of AA. The diet of the second subgroup were left unaltered. All patients have their hormones levels re‐examined 2 months later. After 2 months of AA supplementation the mean levels of elevated plasma cortisol and DHEA‐S decreased. In Group I the level of cortisol fell from 780 ± 57–446 ± 26 nmol/L, p = 0.000065 in Group II from 657 ± 47–515 ± 29 nmol/L, p = 0.005. The elevated levels of DHEA‐S have also declined in patients from AA‐treated subgroups (from 13.9 ± 1.6–9.9 ± 1.2, p = 0.0007 in Group II, and from 12.8 ± 1.0–7.8 ± 1.4, p = 0.003 in Group III). In untreated subgroups changes in hormone levels were insignificant. The study shows that female patients with functional hypercortisolemia or elevated levels of DHEA‐S can be treated with AA to bring level of these hormones closer to a normal range.
Label‐Free Single Nanoparticle Identification and Characterization in Demanding Environment, Including Infectious Emergent Virus
Authors: Nguyen Minh‐Chau , Bonnaud Peter , Dibsy Rayane , Maucort Guillaume , Lyonnais Sébastien , Muriaux Delphine , Bon Pierre
Published: November 2023

Unknown particle screening—including virus and nanoparticles—are keys in medicine, industry, and also in water pollutant determination. Here, RYtov MIcroscopy for Nanoparticles Identification (RYMINI) is introduced, a staining‐free, non‐invasive, and non‐destructive optical approach that is merging holographic label‐free 3D tracking with high‐sensitivity quantitative phase imaging into a compact optical setup. Dedicated to the identification and then characterization of single nano‐object in solution, it is compatible with highly demanding environments, such as level 3 biological laboratories, with high resilience to external source of mechanical and optical noise. Metrological characterization is performed at the level of each single particle on both absorbing and transparent particles as well as on immature and infectious HIV, SARS‐CoV‐2 and extracellular vesicles in solution. The capability of RYMINI to determine the nature, concentration, size, complex refractive index and mass of each single particle without knowledge or model of the particles’ response is demonstrated. The system surpasses 90% accuracy for automatic identification between dielectric/metallic/biological nanoparticles and ≈80% for intraclass chemical determination of metallic and dielectric. It falls down to 50–70% for type determination inside the biological nanoparticle's class.
Unraveling the Heterointegration of 3D Semiconductors on Graphene by Anchor Point Nucleation
Authors: Diallo Thierno Mamoudou , Hanuš Tadeáš , Patriarche Gilles , Ruediger Andreas , Boucherif Abderraouf
Published: November 2023

The heterointegration of graphene with semiconductor materials and the development of graphene‐based hybrid functional devices are heavily bound to the control of surface energy. Although remote epitaxy offers one of the most appealing techniques for implementing 3D/2D heterostructures, it is only suitable for polar materials and is hugely dependent on the graphene interface quality. Here, the growth of defect‐free single‐crystalline germanium (Ge) layers on a graphene‐coated Ge substrate is demonstrated by introducing a new approach named anchor point nucleation (APN). This powerful approach based on graphene surface engineering enables the growth of semiconductors on any type of substrate covered by graphene. Through plasma treatment, defects such as dangling bonds and nanoholes, which act as preferential nucleation sites, are introduced in the graphene layer. These experimental data unravel the nature of those defects, their role in nucleation, and the mechanisms governing this technique. Additionally, high‐resolution transmission microscopy combined with geometrical phase analysis established that the as‐grown layers are perfectly single‐crystalline, stress‐free, and oriented by the substrate underneath the engineered graphene layer. These findings provide new insights into graphene engineering by plasma and open up a universal pathway for the heterointegration of high‐quality 3D semiconductors on graphene for disruptive hybrid devices.
Flexible Pressure Sensors in Human–Machine Interface Applications
Authors: Xu Chengsheng , Chen Jing , Zhu Zhengfang , Liu Moran , Lan Ronghua , Chen Xiaohong , Tang Wei , Zhang Yan , Li Hui
Published: November 2023

Flexible sensors are highly flexible, malleable, and capable of adapting todifferent shapes, surfaces, and environments, which opens a wide range ofpotential applications in the field of human‐machine interface (HMI). Inparticular, flexible pressure sensors as a crucial member of the flexiblesensor family, are widely used in wearable devices, health monitoringinstruments, robots and other fields because they can achieve accuratemeasurement and convert the pressure into electrical signals. The mostintuitive feeling that flexible sensors bring to people is the change ofhuman‐machine interface interaction, from the previous rigid interaction suchas keyboard and mouse to flexible interaction such as smart gloves, more inline with people's natural control habits. Many advanced flexible pressuresensors have emerged through extensive research and development, and to adaptto various fields of application. Researchers have been seeking to enhanceperformance of flexible pressure sensors through improving materials, sensingmechanisms, fabrication methods, and microstructures. This paper reviews the flexible pressure sensors in HMI in recent years, mainlyincluding the following aspects: current cutting‐edge flexible pressuresensors; sensing mechanisms, substrate materials and active materials; sensorfabrication, performances, and their optimization methods; the flexiblepressure sensors for various HMI applications and their prospects.
A Smart Bacteria‐Capture‐Killing Vector for Effectively Treating Osteomyelitis Through Synergy Under Microwave Therapy
Authors: Ren Jinzhi , Qiao Yuqian , Jin Liguo , Mao Congyang , Wang Chaofeng , Wu Shuilin , Zheng Yufeng , Li Zhaoyang , Cui Zhenduo , Jiang Hui , Zhu Shengli , Liu Xiangmei
Published: November 2023

Osteomyelitis caused by deep tissue infections is difficult to cure through phototherapy due to the poor penetration depth of the light. Herein, Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH nanorod composites (Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH) with nanoscale tip convex structures are successfully fabricated as a microwave‐responsive smart bacteria‐capture‐killing vector. Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH exhibited excellent magnetic targeting and bacteria‐capturing ability due to its magnetism and high selectivity affinity to the amino groups on the surface of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Under microwave irradiation, Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH efficiently treated S. aureus‐infected osteomyelitis through the synergistic effects of microwave thermal therapy, microwave dynamic therapy, and copper ion therapy. It is calculated the electric field intensity in various regions of Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH under microwave irradiation, demonstrating that it obtained the highest electric field intensity on the surface of copper nanoparticles of Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH due to its high‐curvature tips and metallic properties. This led to copper nanoparticles attracted more charged particles compared with other areas in Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH. These charges are easier to escape from the high curvature surface of Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH, and captured by adsorbed oxygen, resulting in the generation of reactive oxygen species. The Cu/C/Fe3O4‐COOH designed in this study is expected to provide insight into the treatment of deep tissue infections under the irradiation of microwave.
Heat‐Set Supramolecular Hydrogelation by Regulating the Hydrophilic–Lipophilic Balance for a Tunable Circularly Polarized Luminescent Switch
Authors: Yang Rong , Li Yuangang , Hua Chunxia , Sun Yihuan , Li Huajing , Wei Bizhuo , Dong Huanhuan , Liu Kaiqiang
Published: November 2023

Heat‐set supramolecular gels exhibited totally opposite phase behaviors of dissolution upon cooling and gelation on heating. They are commonly discovered by chance and their rational design remains a great challenge. Herein, a rational design strategy is proposed to realize heat‐set supramolecular hydrogelation through regulation of the hydrophilic–lipophilic balance of the system. A newly synthesized amphiphile hydrogelator with pyrene embedded in its lipophilic terminal can self‐assemble into a hydrogel through a heating and cooling cycle. However, the host–guest complex of the gelator and hydrophilic γ‐cyclodextrin (γ‐CyD) results in a sol at room temperature. Thus, heat‐set hydrogelation is realized from the sol state in a controllable manner. Heat‐set gelation mechanism is revealed by exploring critical heat‐set supramolecular gelation and the related findings provide a general strategy for developing new functional molecular gels with tunable hydrophilic–lipophilic balance.
Simultaneous Separating, Splitting, Collecting, and Dispensing by Droplet Pinch‐Off for Droplet Cell Culture
Authors: Bae Seo Jun , Lee Seon Jun , Im Do Jin
Published: November 2023

Simultaneous separating, splitting, collecting, and dispensing a cell suspension droplet has been demonstrated by aspiration and subsequent droplet pinch‐off for use in microfluidic droplet cell culture systems. This method is applied to cell manipulations including aliquots and concentrations of microalgal and mammalian cell suspensions. Especially, medium exchange of spheroid droplets is successfully demonstrated by collecting more than 99% of all culture medium without damaging the spheroids, demonstrating its potential for a 3D cell culture system. Through dimensional analysis and systematic parametric studies, it is found that initial mother droplet size together with aspiration flow rate determines three droplet pinch‐off regimes. By observing contact angle changes during aspiration, the difference in the large and the small droplet pinch‐off can be quantitatively explained using force balance. It is found that the capillary number plays a significant role in droplet pinch‐off, but the Bond number and the Ohnesorge number have minor effects. Since the dispensed droplet size is mainly determined by the capillary number, the dispensed droplet size can be controlled simply by adjusting the aspiration flow rate. It is hoped that this method can contribute to various fields using droplets, such as droplet cell culture and digital microfluidics, beyond the generation of small droplets.
Electrocatalyst Performances in Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells: Defect Engineering Protocols, Electrocatalytic Pathways, Key Parameters for Improvement, and Breakthroughs on the Horizon
Authors: Matthews Thabo , Mbokazi Siyabonga Patrick , Dolla Tarekegn Heliso , Gwebu Sandile Surprise , Mugadza Kudzai , Raseruthe Katlego , Sikeyi Ludwe Luther , Adegoke Kayode Adesina , Saliu Oluwaseyi Damilare , Adekunle Abolanle Saheed , Ndungu Patrick , Maxakato Nobanathi Wendy
Published: November 2023

In direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs), energy conversion co‐occurs at the anode (alcohol oxidation reaction [AOR]) and cathode (oxygen reduction reaction [ORR]). The sluggishness of AOR and ORR needs highly electrocatalytically active and stable electrocatalysts that boost electrokinetics, which is central in electrocatalysts’ architectural design and modulation. This design entails enhanced engineering synthesis protocols, heteroatomic doping, metallic doping/alloying, and deliberate introduction of defective motifs within the electrocatalyst matrix. The electrocatalyst activity and behavior depend on the electrocatalysts’ nature, type, composition, and reaction media, acidic or alkaline. Alkaline media permits cheap nonplatinum group metals. This review elucidates the roles and electrocatalytic pathways on different AOR and ORR electrocatalysts and outlines the aspects distinguishing ORR in alkaline and acidic media. It gives up‐to‐date and ultramodern strategies, protocols, and underlying mechanisms pointing to the efficacy and efficiency of electrocatalysts. The focus centers on heteroatomic, metallic dopants, defects effects correlated to electrocatalytic properties and experimental and theoretical findings. For the advancement in the field, the present study discusses critical parameters for improving the performances of electrocatalysts for DAFCs and breakthroughs on the horizon. Conclusively, knowledge gaps and prospects of these materials for industrial viability and reigning futuristic research directions are presented.
Entropy‐Mediated Nanoparticle Cellular Uptake
Authors: Wan Haixiao , Xu Duo , Gao Lijuan , Yan Li-Tang
Published: November 2023

Entropy, as one of the key parameters defining thermodynamic systems, is extensively explored in various scientific fields covering physics, chemistry, biology, etc. Particularly, understanding the entropic effects in cellular uptake is critical to understanding how physicochemical interactions govern the structure, response, and function of biological systems. Herein, the major types of entropy in biological systems, the underlying physical principles of their entropic forces, as well as the entropic effects emerging at the interfaces between nanoparticles and cell membrane in diverse biological processes, are introduced. The emphasis is on the physical principles arisen from entropy in the cellular uptake process. Finally, the remaining challenges and future directions for understanding and thereby manipulating entropy‐meditated nanoparticle cellular uptake are discussed. It is hoped that this review can explain some complicated and/or unique phenomena observed during cellular uptake, elucidate the physical mechanisms underlying their structures and dynamical processes, and advance entropy‐controlled strategy in the design and development of novel functional systems and materials toward advantageous biomedical applications.
Phase Engineering of Two‐Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Kim Jong Hun , Sung Hayeong , Lee Gwan-Hyoung
Published: November 2023

Since the successful isolation of single‐layer graphene with an atomic thickness, various van der Waals (vdW) materials have been intensively studied owing to their unique properties. Among the families of vdW materials, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have served as representatives because of their diverse band structures and intriguing quantum states, unlike those observed in their bulk counterparts. Particularly, unconventional polymorphic phases of TMDs increase the degrees of freedom in device fabrication and property modulation. As variations in structural phases significantly change the electrical, physical, and chemical properties of materials, phase engineering is essential for the new paradigm of TMD‐based devices. In this review, diverse strategies that can induce and control structural phases in TMDs are explored. After introducing the polymorphic phase changes and the resulting electronic band structures, the various empirical approaches used for manipulating phases in vdW materials, including phase‐selective synthesis and post‐synthesis treatments, are summarized. The group‐VI TMDs are considered as reference, and the analysis is extended to other TMDs across various groups in the periodic table. In addition to providing a comprehensive survey of the recent progress in TMD applications, the challenges for TMD applications and potential opportunities in emerging fields are discussed.
Achieving High Energy Efficiency: Recent Advances in Zn‐Air‐Based Hybrid Battery Systems
Authors: Yan Lei , Chen Jie , Yang Chen , Ning Jiqiang , Hu Yong
Published: November 2023

Rechargeable Zn‐air batteries (ZABs) are regarded as an attractive green energy storage technology, featured with large theoretical energy densities and intrinsic high safety factors. However, hindered by the sluggish kinetics of both oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction, rechargeable ZABs are confronted with some critical challenges such as low operating voltage, poor energy efficiency, and limited cycle life. Zn‐air‐based hybrid batteries (ZAHBs), integrating the advantages of a conventional ZAB with supplementary redox reactions, have emerged as a promising solution to address those challenges. Based on working principles, the hybrid batteries can be categorized into two groups: Zn‐M/air hybrid batteries (M = Ni, Co, Ag, Cu, and Mn) and Zn‐X/air hybrid batteries (X = KI, ethanol, and urea), which can achieve improved energy efficiency and density by optimizing charge–discharge voltage. Herein, a comprehensive overview of ZAHBs is provided, including the classification, latest progress, and electrochemical properties, as well as detailed discussion of relevant mechanisms. Moreover, the perspectives and opportunities for future research in the field of hybrid battery systems are also outlined. This review shall give helpful guidance on the design and application of ZAHBs, and provide important insights into the development of new electrochemical energy storage systems.
Hierarchical Microcarriers Loaded with Peptide Dendrimer‐Grafted Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Authors: Li Yang , Zhu Haofang , Liu Rui , Zhao Yuanjin , Sun Lingyun
Published: November 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the leading causes of disability due to the autoimmune destruction of synovial joints. Great efforts have been put into developing multifunctional drug delivery systems for delaying the progression of RA. Herein, a novel locally injectable, hierarchically structured delivery system with a hyaluronic acid (HA) microparticle and an MTX‐conjugated nanoparticle for promoted RA treatment is proposed. In this system, MTX is chemically grafted onto a peptide dendrimer‐based nanoparticle (G‐MTX). These nanoparticles are encapsulated inside HA microparticles (H‐G‐MTX) using microfluidics to realize the system. The G‐MTX can be released from the degradable HA microparticles in the acidic environment of inflamed RA joints. As the G‐MTX shows an enhanced intracellular delivery of the conjugated MTX, the H‐G‐MTX can reverse the dominant macrophage phenotype from M1 to M2. Through a collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) rat model, the great therapeutic outcomes of this hierarchically structured delivery system are demonstrated, including inflammation reduction, cartilage protection, and bone mineral density promotion. These results indicate that the proposed hierarchical delivery system has potential clinical value in the treatment of RA and other diseases.
Current Trends of Iridium‐Based Catalysts for Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Acidic Water Electrolysis
Authors: Thao Nguyen Thi Thu , Jang Jin Uk , Nayak Arpan Kumar , Han HyukSu
Published: November 2023

The proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) powered by renewable electricity offers a facile route for clean hydrogen production. The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the anode plays a major role in affecting the overall device efficiency due to its sluggish OER kinetics. Thus, it remains a challenge to develop robust and active catalysts for OER in acid media for efficient PEMWE. Currently, iridium (Ir)‐based materials, such as mono‐ and multimetallic Ir, Ir‐based oxides, pyrochlore iridate oxides, and Ir‐based perovskites, are the most promising OER catalysts in acid media for PEMWEs. Extensive research has been conducted to enhance the specific activity of Ir species to make cost‐effective. The present review aims to provide the recent progress on addressing the long‐term durability issue of Ir‐based catalyst for OER in acidic conditions, aspiring to inspire the researchers to design highly efficient and stable Ir‐based catalysts. Moreover, the detailed OER mechanism along with the dissolution nature of Ir species is discussed and summarized. Finally, the status, challenges, and prospects for the development of Ir‐based OER catalysts are discussed.
Reactive Oxygen Species‐Associated Chiral Nanoarchitectures for Bioscience
Authors: Yu Guangbo , Qu Aihua , Wu Zhimeng , Xu Liguang , Xu Chuanlai , Kuang Hua
Published: November 2023

Chirality is a common occurrence in nature and forms a critical basis for life. The unique optical activity of chiral nanomaterials plays an important role in the nanobiology field, particularly in the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), both in cells and in vivo. By regulating ROS, chiral nanomaterials can achieve numerous biological effects. Herein, progression in the application of chiral nanomaterials in the field of bioscience is introduced. First, the strategies used to construct different types of ROS‐related chiral nanomaterials are introduced. Then, the biological effects that can be achieved using chiral nanomaterials to regulate ROS are reviewed. Finally, the key issues and future prospects of chiral nanomaterials in the regulation of ROS are discussed.
Sulfonic Group Modified Binder Endows Rapid Lithium‐Ion Diffusion for SiOx Microparticle Anode
Authors: Weng Zheng , Wu Gang , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Ying , Zhang Ruifeng , Zhang Ning , Liu Xiaohe , Jia Chuankun , Chen Gen
Published: November 2023

Silicon‐based materials have been regarded as the most flourishing anode materials owing to the incomparable specific capacity. However, their commercial application is obstructed by huge volume expansion and particle pulverization, which subsequently lead to the stress concentration and the loss of electrical contact, eventually resulting in poor cycling stability and lousy rate performance. Herein, an ion‐conductive binder with boosted ion‐conductivity is proposed by free radical polymerization between acrylic acid and lithiated 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid (LiAMPS). With the aid of ample sulfonic acid anionic groups, rapid lithium‐ion diffusion can be achieved to improve the transport kinetics and rate performance. Meanwhile, superior mechanical properties of binder can alleviate the stress concentration to avoid particle pulverization by noncovalent hydrogen bond. The synergistic strategy of constructing lithium‐ion diffusion pathway and alleviating the stress concentration can make a preeminent improvement on Li+ diffusion coefficient and maintain a high structural integrity of electrode. Benefiting from the synergistic effect, the SiOx microparticle anode delivers a high capacity of 587.8 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles at 1C and preeminent rate performance of 648.6 mAh g−1 at 5C. Such a synergistic design strategy endows P(AA‐co‐LiAMPS) binder with a promising potential for high energy density silicon‐based anodes.
Double‐Orthogonal Gradient‐Based High‐Throughput Screening Platform for Studying Cell Response Toward Combined Physicochemical Biomaterial Properties
Authors: van der Boon Torben A.B. , Tromp Lisa E. , Ge Lu , Yang Liangliang , Guimaraes Carlos F. , Kühn Philipp T. , Zhou Qihui , Bank Ruud A. , van Kooten Theo G. , van Rijn Patrick
Published: November 2023

Implant‐associated complications arise due to non‐optimized cell–biomaterial interactions. It is well known that cells respond to their physicochemical microenvironment on 2D interfaces and 3D networks. Attempts to manipulate this interaction target surface parameters such as wettability (W), stiffness (S), and topography (T) to influence cell differentiation, adhesion, and morphology, due to induction of gene activation and protein expression. Investigating the combinatorial influence of all three mentioned parameters simultaneously remains challenging, though most realistic, since all three parameters are inherently present on a surface. Herein, a novel high‐throughput screening technology, which allows investigating the cell response of human bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells toward three varying biomaterial surface parameters simultaneously, is presented. The platform provides efficient screening and cell response readout to a vast amount of combined biomaterial surface properties, in a single‐cell experiment. Surface gradients of aligned wrinkle T, S, and W are orthogonally combined giving four combinatorial surfaces. The screening outcome is validated by translating interesting regions to homogeneous surfaces. Cells are found to behave similar to the screening in terms of adhesion, spreading, and vimentin expression. The technology tremendously supports the identification of optimal surface parameter combinations and potentially addressing many of the current implant‐associated complications.
Tailoring the Morphology of a Diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based Polymer as Films or Wires for High‐Performance OFETs using Solution Shearing
Authors: Dacha Preetam , Hambsch Mike , Pohl Darius , Haase Katherina , Löffler Markus , Lan Tianshu , Feng Xinliang , Rellinghaus Bernd , Mannsfeld Stefan C. B.
Published: November 2023

Conjugated polymers often show efficient charge carrier transport along their backbone which is a primary factor in the electrical behavior of Organic Field Effect Transistor (OFETs) devices fabricated from these materials. Herein, a solution shearing procedure is reported to fabricate micro/nano wires from a diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP)‐based polymer. Millimeter to nanometer long polymer wires orientated in the coating direction are developed after a thorough analysis of the deposition conditions. It shows several morphological regimes—film, transition, and wires and experimentally derive a phase diagram for the parameters coating speed and surface energy of the substrate. The as‐fabricated wires are isolated, which is confirmed by optical, atomic force, and scanning electron microscopy. Beside the macroscopic alignment of wires, cross‐polarized optical microscopy images show strong birefringence suggesting a high degree of molecular orientation. This is further substantiated by polarized UV‐Vis‐NIR spectroscopy, selected area electron diffraction transmission electron microscopy, and grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering. Finally, an enhanced electrical performance of single wire OFETs is observed with a 15‐fold increase in effective charge carrier mobility to 1.57 cm2 V−1 s−1 over devices using films (0.1 cm2 V−1 s−1) with similar values for on/off current ratio and threshold voltage.