bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injectable Hydrogels for Programmable Nanoparticle Release
Authors: Shi Wenting , Ying Xi , Sheng Xinyi , Das Soumen , He Dongjing , Collins Kasie , Hu Yuhang , Finn M.G.
Published: November 2024

Injectable hydrogels represent a promising strategy for the extended release of biological molecules, thereby reducing the frequency of injections. This study introduces a novel system based on Michael addition of dextran and polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymers functionalized with oxanorbornadiene (OND) and thiol groups, respectively. Reliable control over gelation speed allows administration by injection using a simple syringe‐to‐syringe mixing protocol that entrains more than 95% of virus‐like particle (VLP) cargo. A combination of retro‐Diels‐Alder and hydrolytic ester bond cleavage gives rise to programmable release of the VLPs. Different release profiles, including burst, linear, and delayed release over a two‐week period, are engineered using different OND linkages, and rheological characterization shows the hydrogels to be well within the desired range of stiffness for subcutaneous use. The modular nature of this system offers a generalizable platform for developing degradable materials aimed at sustained release biomedical applications.
Multiferroicity and Semi‐Cylindrical Alignment in Janus Nanofiber Aggregates
Authors: Arash Saba , Kharal Govinda , Chavez Bryan L. , Ferson Noah D. , Mills Sara C. , Andrew Jennifer S. , Crawford Thomas M. , Wu Yanwen
Published: November 2024

1D multiferroic fibers are known to exhibit attractive characteristics, including enhanced magnetoelectric (ME) coupling compared to thin film and bulk architectures. A comprehensive understanding of composite fibers, however, has been hindered by the complexity of their structure, leading to limited reports. Here, clear and strong ME coupling is experimentally detected in a composite Janus nanofiber aggregate using second harmonic generation (SHG) polarimetry under different magnetic field orientations. The observation of such a pronounced effect using an all‐optical method has not been previously reported in multiferroic fibers. A series of global fits is performed to the SHG polarimetry results to investigate the behavior of nanofibers within an aggregate. We find the magnetically assembled fibers exhibit semi‐cylindrical alignment as well as the expected lengthwise alignment despite variations in size and composition from fiber to fiber. The ME coupling and the semi‐cylindrical alignment seen in SHG are further corroborated via X‐ray diffraction under similar magnetic field conditions. These findings contribute to the development of complex composite and multifunctional devices using multiferroic nanostructures as building blocks, even those with inhomogeneous shapes and geometries.
Harnessing Extreme Internal Damping in Polyrotaxane‐Incorporated Liquid Crystal Elastomers for Pressure‐Sensitive Adhesives
Authors: Choi Subi , Guo Hongye , Kim Bitgaram , Seo Ji‐Hun , Terentjev Eugene M. , Saed Mohand O. , Ahn Suk‐kyun
Published: November 2024

Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) exhibit extraordinary energy dissipation due to their unique viscoelastic response, resulting from the rotation of mesogens under mechanical stress. While recent studies demonstrate the LCE‐based pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSAs) by exploiting the enhanced damping, all previous studies have focused on LCEs with covalent crosslinks. Here, a new class of PSAs is developed by integrating movable polyrotaxane crosslinkers into an LCE matrix (PRx‐LCEs). Dynamic viscoelastic measurements reveal that PRx‐LCE exhibits a remarkably high energy dissipation, as indicated by a large tan δ. Interestingly, the secondary tan δ peak associated with LCE damping is more pronounced than the primary peak of the glass transition. The exceptional energy dissipation in PRx‐LCE results in superior adhesion strength (≈1864 N m−1), which is 3.5 times higher than conventional LCEs and 13 times higher than commercial PSAs in the peel test. Additionally, PRx‐LCEs demonstrate thermally reversible adhesion, enabling clean removal at elevated temperatures. Furthermore, the sliding effect in PRx‐LCE enhances both deformability and stress relaxation under load, resulting in deeper indentation, and superior adhesion during the probe tack test. The combination of LCE and slidable crosslinks provides robust and switchable adhesion, making them promising for applications in biomedical engineering, display, and semiconductor industries.
Template Quality Dependent Conversion Synthesis of Boron Nitride Coated Graphene Hybrid Aerogels for Ultrasensitive and Selective Ammonia Sensing
Authors: Li Guangliang , Long Hu , Turner Sally , Azizi Amin , Yan Aiming , Yuan Zhen , Liao Guanglan , Carraro Carlo , Maboudian Roya , Shi Tielin , Zettl Alex
Published: November 2024

Recently, hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) nanomaterials, e.g., nanosheets and nanotubes, have been predicted to be effective materials for reversible gas adsorption with high selectivity once charged. However, despite the encouraging theoretical predictions, sensing with h‐BN is difficult to realize experimentally due to its electrically insulating nature stemming from its large band gap. In this research, the controlled synthesis of high surface area hybrid h‐BN/graphene aerogel is reported, using high‐quality graphene as a template, and its application for selective gas sensing. It is discovered for the first time in this system that the difficulty of conversion in template synthesis of h‐BN is positively correlated with the quality of the carbon template, an observation that is verified on both graphene nanosheets and carbon nanotubes. The application of this hybrid material for gas sensing yields ppb level of detection limit and high selectivity for NH3. Through density functional theory calculations, the adsorption energy and charge transfer between NH3 molecules and aerogel are greatly enhanced. Therefore, this innovative approach promises new possibilities for the application of h‐BN in gas sensing, with the potential to play a significant role in gas capture, environmental monitoring, and other related fields.
Low Molecular Weight Alginate Oligosaccharides as Alternatives to PEG for Enhancement of the Diffusion of Cationic Nanoparticles Through Cystic Fibrosis Mucus
Authors: Maeshima Ruhina , Tagalakis Aristides D. , Gyftaki‐Venieri Dafni , Jones Stuart A. , Rye Philip D. , Tøndervik Anne , Åstrand O. Alexander H. , Hart Stephen L.
Published: November 2024

Airway mucus is a major barrier to the delivery of lipid‐based nanoparticles in chronic airway diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF). Receptor‐Targeted Nanocomplexes (RTN), comprise mixtures of cationic lipids and bifunctional peptides with receptor‐targeting and nucleic acid packaging properties. The aim of this study is to improve the mucus‐penetrating properties of cationic siRNA and mRNA RTNs by combining them with low molecular weight alginate oligosaccharides, OligoG and OligoM. Cationic RTNs formulated with either alginate become strongly anionic, while PEGylated messenger RNA (mRNA) and short interfering RNA (siRNA) RTNs remain cationic. Both alginates enhance mucus diffusion rates of cationic siRNA and mRNA RTNs in a static mucus barrier diffusion model, with OligoG particularly effective. PEGylation also enhance mucus diffusion rates of siRNA RTNs but not mRNA RTNs. Electron microscopy shows that RTNs remained intact after mucosal transit. The transfection efficiency of OligoM‐coated mRNA RTNs is better than those coated with OligoG or PEG, and similar to cationic RTNs. In siRNA RTN transfections, OligoM is better than OligoG although 1% PEG is slightly better than both. The combination of cationic RTNs and alginate oligosaccharides represents a promising alternative to PEGylation for epithelial delivery of genetic therapies across the mucus barrier while retaining transfection efficiency.
Melt Electrowriting of Polyhydroxyalkanoates for Enzymatically Degradable Scaffolds
Authors: Gładysz Magdalena Z. , Ubels Didi , Koch Marcus , Amirsadeghi Armin , Alleblas Frederique , van Vliet Sander , Kamperman Marleen , Siebring Jeroen , Nagelkerke Anika , Włodarczyk‐Biegun Małgorzata K.
Published: November 2024

Melt electrowriting (MEW) enables precise scaffold fabrication for biomedical applications. With a limited number of processable materials with short and tunable degradation times, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) present an interesting option. Here, poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) and a blend of PHBV and poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHBV+P34HB) are successfully melt electrowritten into scaffolds with various architectures. PHBV+P34HB exhibits greater thermal stability, making it a superior printing material compared to PHBV in MEW. The PHBV+P34HB scaffolds subjected to enzymatic degradation show tunable degradation times, governed by enzyme dilution, incubation time, and scaffold surface area. PHBV+P34HB scaffolds seeded with human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), demonstrate enhanced cell adherence, proliferation, and spreading. The HDFs, when exposed to the enzyme solutions and enzymatic degradation residues, show good viability and proliferation rates. Additionally, HDFs grown on enzymatically pre‐incubated scaffolds do not show any difference in behavior compared those grown on control scaffolds. It is concluded that PHAs, as biobased materials with enzymatically tunable degradability rates, are an important addition to the already limited set of materials available for MEW technology.
Colossal Strain Tuning of Ferroelectric Transitions in KNbO3 Thin Films
Authors: Hazra Sankalpa , Schwaigert Tobias , Ross Aiden , Lu Haidong , Saha Utkarsh , Trinquet Victor , Akkopru‐Akgun Betul , Gregory Benjamin Z. , Mangu Anudeep , Sarker Suchismita , Kuznetsova Tatiana , Sarker Saugata , Li Xin , Barone Matthew R. , Xu Xiaoshan , Freeland John W. , Engel‐Herbert Roman , Lindenberg Aaron M. , Singer Andrej , Trolier‐McKinstry Susan , Muller David A. , Rignanese Gian‐Marco , Salmani‐Rezaie Salva , Stoica Vladimir A. , Gruverman Alexei , Chen Long‐Qing , Schlom Darrell G. , Gopalan Venkatraman
Published: November 2024

Strong coupling between polarization (P) and strain (ɛ) in ferroelectric complex oxides offers unique opportunities to dramatically tune their properties. Here colossal strain tuning of ferroelectricity in epitaxial KNbO3 thin films grown by sub‐oxide molecular beam epitaxy is demonstrated. While bulk KNbO3 exhibits three ferroelectric transitions and a Curie temperature (Tc) of ≈676 K, phase‐field modeling predicts that a biaxial strain of as little as −0.6% pushes its Tc > 975 K, its decomposition temperature in air, and for −1.4% strain, to Tc > 1325 K, its melting point. Furthermore, a strain of −1.5% can stabilize a single phase throughout the entire temperature range of its stability. A combination of temperature‐dependent second harmonic generation measurements, synchrotron‐based X‐ray reciprocal space mapping, ferroelectric measurements, and transmission electron microscopy reveal a single tetragonal phase from 10 K to 975 K, an enhancement of ≈46% in the tetragonal phase remanent polarization (Pr), and a ≈200% enhancement in its optical second harmonic generation coefficients over bulk values. These properties in a lead‐free system, but with properties comparable or superior to lead‐based systems, make it an attractive candidate for applications ranging from high‐temperature ferroelectric memory to cryogenic temperature quantum computing.
Energy Band Alignment and Defect Synergistic Regulation Enable Air‐Solution‐Processed Kesterite Solar Cells With the Lowest VOC Deficit
Authors: Zhao Yunhai , Chen Xingye , Chen Shuo , Zheng Zhuanghao , Su Zhenghua , Ma Hongli , Zhang Xianghua , Liang Guangxing
Published: November 2024

The major challenge in preparing high‐performance Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 solar cells is the large open circuit voltage deficit (VOC‐def). A new strategy utilizing the synergistic substitution of Ag and In dual cations has been proposed to simultaneously address the problems of undesirable interface band alignment and high‐density detrimental bulk defects, obtaining decreased carrier recombination rate and increased minority carrier lifetime. The shorter In−S/Se bonds move the CBM higher by generating stronger repulsive force than the Sn−S/Se bonds, thus adjusting the interface band alignment. Ag substitution can effectively suppress Cu─Zn disorder, while Ag, In dual substitution can further passivate Sn‐related defects and solve the issue of low carrier concentration in Ag single‐substituted samples. Besides, the superior carrier property of In‐Se materials significantly enhanced the device carrier lifetime and minority carrier diffusion length. The state‐of‐the‐art air‐solution‐processed CZTSSe device without any addition treatment with 14.33% efficiency and 580 mV VOC is obtained, possessing the lowest VOC‐def value currently available in the CZTSSe field (VOC/VOCSQ = 64.7%). This work emphasizes the synergistic modulation of band alignment, defect level, grain growth, and carrier transportation by dual cation substitution, which paves a convenient and effective way to realize high‐performance solar cells and photovoltaic devices.
Highly Responsive Polar Vortices in All‐Ferroelectric Heterostructures
Authors: Kavle Pravin , Ross Aiden M. , KP Harikrishnan , Meisenheimer Peter , Dasgupta Arvind , Yang Jiyuan , Lin Ching‐Che , Pan Hao , Behera Piush , Parsonnet Eric , Huang Xiaoxi , Zorn Jacob A. , Shao Yu‐Tsun , Das Sujit , Liu Shi , Muller David A. , Ramesh Ramamoorthy , Chen Long‐Qing , Martin Lane W.
Published: November 2024

The discovery of polar vortices and skyrmions in ferroelectric‐dielectric superlattices [such as (PbTiO3)n/(SrTiO3)n] has ushered in an era of novel dipolar topologies and corresponding emergent phenomena. The key to creating such emergent features has generally been considered to be related to counterpoising strongly polar and non‐polar materials thus creating the appropriate boundary conditions. This limits the utility these materials can have, however, by rendering (effectively) half of the structure unresponsive to applied stimuli. Here, using advanced thin‐film deposition and an array of characterization and simulation approaches, polar vortices are realized in all‐ferroelectric trilayers, multilayers, and superlattices built from the fundamental building block of (PbTiO3)n/(PbxSr1−xTiO3)n wherein in‐plane ferroelectric polarization in the PbxSr1−xTiO3 provides the appropriate boundary conditions. These superlattices exhibit substantially enhanced electromechanical and ferroelectric responses in the out‐of‐plane direction that arise from the ability of the polarization in both layers to rotate to the out‐of‐plane direction under field. In the in‐plane direction, the layers are found to be strongly coupled during switching and when heterostructured with ferroelectric‐dielectric building blocks, it is possible to produce multistate switching. This approach expands the realm of systems supporting emergent dipolar texture formation and does so with entirely ferroelectric materials thus greatly improving their responses.
A Stepwise Melting‐Polymerizing Molecule for Hydrophobic Grain‐Scale Encapsulated Perovskite Solar Cell
Authors: Sun Riming , Chen Shaoyu , He Qingyun , Yang Pinghui , Gao Xuan , Wu Mengyang , Wang Junbo , Zhong Chongyu , Zhao Xiangru , Li Mubai , Tian Qiushuang , Yang Yingguo , Wang Aifei , Huang Wei , Li Renzhi , Qin Tianshi , Wang Fangfang
Published: November 2024

Despite the ongoing increase in the efficiency of perovskite solar cells, the stability issues of perovskite have been a significant hindrance to its commercialization. In response to this challenge, a stepwise melting‐polymerizing molecule (SMPM) is designed as an additive into FAPbI3 perovskite. SMPM undergoes a three‐stage phase transition during the perovskite annealing process: initially melting from solid to liquid state, followed by overflowing grain boundaries, and finally self‐polymerizing to form a hydrophobic grain‐scale encapsulation in perovskite solar cells, providing protection against humidity‐induced degradation. With this unique property, coupled with the advantages of improved crystallization, diminished non‐radiative recombination, and energy level alignment, FAPbI3‐based perovskite solar cells with a 25.21% (small‐area) and 22.94% (1 cm2) power conversion efficiency and over 2000 h T95% stability under 85% relative humidity is achieved. Furthermore, the SMPM‐based perovskite solar cells without external encapsulations sustain impressive stability during underwater operation, in which the black FAPbI3 phase is maintained and Pb‐leakage is also effectively suppressed. Therefore, the SMPM strategy can offer a sustainable settlement in both stability and environmental issues for the commercialization of perovskite solar cells.
The Development, Essence and Perspective of Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia
Authors: Feng Yangyang , Jiao Lei , Zhuang Xu , Wang Yaobing , Yao Jiannian
Published: November 2024

Ammonia plays a pivotal role in agriculture and meanwhile holds promising potential as an energy vector for the hydrogen economy, where the nitrogen reduction to ammonia is a critical pathway for achieving sustainable development. Over the past hundred years, ammonia synthesis has undergone several breakthrough developments from Haber‐Bosch process to photo/electro‐catalysis and Li‐mediated strategy, but still faces the challenges of low yield rate, selectivity and efficiency. Therefore, there is a pressing demand to develop efficient and green ammonia synthesis from nitrogen. This review summarizes the development of the nitrogen reduction to ammonia, highlighting six milestones during the whole journey. From the development direction, this work finds and extracts the essence of ammonia synthesis, that is the reaction pathways are affected by the energy barrier of reaction intermediates, which can be altered by proton sources, auxiliaries and catalysts. Then this work discusses the detailed overview of the significant development of proton source, auxiliaries and catalysts. Finally, based on the essence, the possible opportunities of ammonia synthesis from nitrogen reduction are presented, including the design of new ammonia synthesis pathways and efficient catalysts. The deep insight of nitrogen reduction to ammonia will provide a design guidance for efficient ammonia synthesis.
High‐Throughput Approaches to Engineer Fluorescent Nanosensors
Authors: Metternich Justus T. , Patjoshi Sujit K. , Kistwal Tanuja , Kruss Sebastian
Published: November 2024

Optical sensors are powerful tools to identify and image (biological) molecules. Because of their optoelectronic properties, nanomaterials are often used as building blocks. To transduce the chemical interaction with the analyte into an optical signal, the interplay between surface chemistry and nanomaterial photophysics has to be optimized. Understanding these aspects promises major opportunities for tailored sensors with optimal performance. However, this requires methods to create and explore the many chemical permutations. Indeed, many current approaches are limited in throughput. This affects the chemical design space that can be studied, the application of machine learning approaches as well as fundamental mechanistic understanding. Here, an overview of selection‐limited and synthesis‐limited approaches is provided to create and identify molecular nanosensors. Bottlenecks are discussed and opportunities of non‐classical recognition strategies are highlighted such as corona phase molecular recognition as well as the requirements for high throughput and scalability. Fluorescent carbon nanotubes are powerful building blocks for sensors and their huge chemical design space makes them an ideal platform for high throughput approaches. Therefore, they are the focus of this article, but the insights are transferable to any nanosensor system. Overall, this perspective aims to provide a fresh perspective to overcome current challenges in the nanosensor field.
A Sucker‐Reactor Polyoxometalate Assembled Superstructures for Efficient Photocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Gong Xiangjiao , Teng Wenkai , Liu Wei , Xiao Hang , Li He , Ou Honghui , Yang Guidong
Published: November 2024

Designing a reaction system that integrates reactant capture and transformation in an artificial photosynthesis system to achieve high reaction efficiency remains challenging. Here, an ionic liquid (IL) ‐polyoxometalate (POM) superstructure photocatalyst (P2HPMo) is reported, where the anisotropy of the superstructure is allowed by adjusting the alkyl chain lengths of ILs. Experimental data and theoretical simulation show that ILs and POM serve as the “sucker” and “reactor” of the reaction system to capture and transform the reactants, respectively. In particular, the addition of quaternary phosphorous IL cations is not only conducive to the adsorption of N2 but also effectively promotes the activation of N2 by manipulating the energy band and electronic structure. Consequently, the synthesized P2HPMo exhibits an ammonia synthesis rate of 98 µmol·gcat−1·h−1, which is one of the highest values available in a sacrificial agent‐free system.
Fabrication of Ultrathin Ferroelectric Al0.7Sc0.3N Films under Complementary‐Metal‐Oxide‐Semiconductor Compatible Conditions by using HfN0.4 Electrode
Authors: Ryoo Seung Kyu , Kim Kyung Do , Choi Wonho , Sriboriboon Panithan , Heo Seungjae , Seo Haengha , Jang Yoon Ho , Jeon Jeong Woo , Yeom Min Kyu , Lee Suk Hyun , Park Han Sol , Kim Yunseok , Hwang Cheol Seong
Published: November 2024

Aluminum scandium nitride (AlScN) has emerged as a promising candidate for next‐generation ferroelectric memories, offering a much higher remanent charge density than other materials with a stable ferroelectric phase. However, the inherently high coercive field requires a substantial decrease in film thickness to lower the operating voltage. Significant leakage currents present a severe challenge during the thickness scaling, especially when maintaining compatibility with complementary‐metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication standards. This study adopts a HfN0.4 bottom electrode, which minimizes lattice mismatch with Al0.7Sc0.3N (ASN), forming a coherent bottom interface that effectively reduces leakage currents even at thickness < 5 nm. CMOS‐compatible HfN0.4/ASN/TiN stack, deposited without vacuum break between each layer, demonstrates exceptional scalability, confirming the ferroelectricity of ASN films at thicknesses down to 3 nm. The coercive voltage is decreased to 4.35 V, significantly advancing low‐voltage AlScN devices that align with CMOS standards.
Bio‐Inspired Bright Non‐Iridescent Structurally Colored Nanopigments Featuring Additive Color Mixing Performance
Authors: Wang Wentao , Zhang Wenzhen , Zhou Yicheng , Yao Yuyuan , Tang Bingtao , Ding Liming
Published: November 2024

Owing to the unique features of high chemical and photostability, structurally colored materials can potentially replace organic dyes and pigments in many applications. The most common fabrication method of structural color materials is the “bottom‐up” self‐assembly approach. However, the assembled structures are easily damaged by external forces, leading to color fading or even disappearance. Therefore, it is still a challenge to fabricate structural colors that mimic the appearance of absorbing pigments without assembly processes. Inspired by the Steller's jay, non‐iridescent structurally colored nanopigments are created, which are composed of hollow SiO2 (H‐SiO2) microspheres with amorphous carbon on the inner wall of the shell and disordered metasurfaces on the shell layer. It is shown that the color originates from the synergistic effect of the disordered metasurfaces and the amorphous carbon layer, which can produce strong coherent scattered light and effectively absorb incoherently scattered light, respectively. Amazingly, the H‐SiO2 microspheres can maintain their structural colors even after grinding or being dispersed in water. What's more, through the additive color mixing of two base colors and precise tuning of their ratios, gradient structural colors that spanning the visible spectrum can be achieved. These features indicate promising prospects for the designed nanopigments.
Distinct Pathways Determined by Photocatalytic C─H or O─H Bond Activation for Hydroxyl Compounds Conversion Paired With Hydrogen Production
Authors: Li Ting , Zhu Xiaodi , Li Huajing , Zhou Wenwu , Zhang Yijun , Li Yuangang
Published: November 2024

Selective control of C─H or O─H bond activation in photocatalytic conversion coupled with hydrogen production is a promising yet challenging goal. Here, an efficient photocatalytic system is reported that can produce high‐valued tartaric acid or formaldehyde and simultaneous producing hydrogen. At optimized conditions, the directional conversion of glycolic acid into tartaric acid is achieved with a selectivity of 76.24%, and the selectivity  of methanol oxidation into formaldehyde reaches 88.21%. A high hydrogen production rate of 21.43 mmol·g−1·h−1 is obtained using glycolic acid as substrate. Mechanism studies reveal that α‐C─H bond is preferentially activated in glycolic acid adsorbed on the photocatalyst, while O─H bond is preferentially activated in methanol, forming carbon‐centered radical (•CH(OH)COOH) or oxygen‐centered radical (CH3O•) for subsequent coupling or oxidation reactions. This work demonstrates the selective control of the photocatalytic conversion process of different hydroxyl compounds, providing a new perspective for achieving organic compounds selective activation coupled with hydrogen production.
Wise Roles and Future Visionary Endeavors of Current Emperor: Advancing Dynamic Methods for Longitudinal Microbiome Meta‐Omics Data in Personalized and Precision Medicine
Authors: Oh Vera‐Khlara S. , Li Robert W.
Published: November 2024

Understanding the etiological complexity of diseases requires identifying biomarkers longitudinally associated with specific phenotypes. Advanced sequencing tools generate dynamic microbiome data, providing insights into microbial community functions and their impact on health. This review aims to explore the current roles and future visionary endeavors of dynamic methods for integrating longitudinal microbiome multi‐omics data in personalized and precision medicine. This work seeks to synthesize existing research, propose best practices, and highlight innovative techniques. The development and application of advanced dynamic methods, including the unified analytical frameworks and deep learning tools in artificial intelligence, are critically examined. Aggregating data on microbes, metabolites, genes, and other entities offers profound insights into the interactions among microorganisms, host physiology, and external stimuli. Despite progress, the absence of gold standards for validating analytical protocols and data resources of various longitudinal multi‐omics studies remains a significant challenge. The interdependence of workflow steps critically affects overall outcomes. This work provides a comprehensive roadmap for best practices, addressing current challenges with advanced dynamic methods. The review underscores the biological effects of clinical, experimental, and analytical protocol settings on outcomes. Establishing consensus on dynamic microbiome inter‐studies and advancing reliable analytical protocols are pivotal for the future of personalized and precision medicine.
Integrin β8 Facilitates Macrophage Infiltration and Polarization by Regulating CCL5 to Promote LUAD Progression
Authors: Song Lei , Yu Xi , Wu Yang , Zhang Wenwen , Zhang Yu , Shao Yanchi , Hou Zhenxin , Yang Chen , Gao Yue , Zhao Yanbin
Published: November 2024

The tumor microenvironment (TME) influences cancer progression and metastasis. Integrin β8 (ITGβ8), a member of the integrin family, is upregulated in various cancers. In this study, it is determined as a key factor that mediates the interaction between lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells and macrophages. Increased expression levels of ITGβ8 are associated with increased numbers of CD163+ macrophages and poor prognosis in LUAD patients. The overexpression of ITGβ8 in LUAD cells promotes the polarization of THP‐1 macrophages toward the M2 phenotype. In contrast, TCM (conditioned medium from the co‐culture system) from THP‐1 macrophages and ITGβ8‐overexpressing A549 cells promoted the proliferation and invasion of A549 cells. Mechanistically, chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5) plays an important role in mediating ITGβ8‐induced macrophage polarization, and the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT)/interferon regulatory factor 9 (IRF9) pathway is involved in this process. Moreover, interleukin 8 (IL8) and interleukin 10 (IL10) produced by M2‐like macrophages regulate the expression of ITGβ8 in LUAD cells through the spi‐1 proto‐oncogene (SPI1). This study elucidates the feedback mechanism of ITGβ8 between LUAD cells and macrophages.
3D‐Printed Bioceramic Scaffolds Reinforced by the In Situ Oriented Growth of Grains for Supercritical Bone Defect Reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Boqing , Wang Kaixin , Gui Xingyu , Wang Wenzhao , Song Ping , Wu Lina , Guo Likun , Zhou Changchun , Fan Yujiang , Zhang Xingdong
Published: November 2024

Porous calcium phosphate ceramics have attracted widespread attention owing to their excellent bioactivity. However, their poor mechanical properties severely limit their clinical applications. Significantly improving the mechanical strength of porous CaP ceramics while maintaining their bioactivity remains a major challenge. To address this issue, calcium sulfate is used to regulate the directional growth of hydroxyapatite grains during ceramic sintering. The in situ oriented grains can not only alleviate the stress concentration but also strengthen the bonding force between the ceramic grain boundaries. Calcium sulfate improves the release of active calcium ions from calcium phosphate ceramics, further enhancing their bioactivity and osteoinductivity in vivo. Transcriptome and proteome sequencing reveals that the in situ whisker‐reinforced ceramics increase the expression of proteins related to calcium ion binding and promote the expression of osteogenesis‐related proteins. In the supercritical bone defect repair model, repair of the defect is achieved within 3 months, with mechanical recovery reaching more than 70% of the autologous bone.
N6‐Methyladenosine Regulates Cilia Elongation in Cancer Cells by Modulating HDAC6 Expression
Authors: Rui Yalan , Zhang Haisheng , Yu Kangning , Qiao Shiyao , Gao Chenglin , Wang Xiansong , Yang Weifeng , Asadikaram Gholamreza , Li Zigang , Zhang Kun , Peng Jianxin , Li Jiexin , He Junming , Wang Hongsheng
Published: November 2024

Primary cilia are microtubule‐based organelles that function as cellular antennae to address multiple metabolic and extracellular cues. The past decade has seen significant advances in understanding the pro‐tumorigenic role of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification in tumorigenesis. Nevertheless, whether m6A modification modulates the cilia dynamics during cancer progression remains unclear. Here, the results show that m6A methyltransferase METTL3 regulates cilia length in cancer cells via HDAC6‐dependent deacetylation of axonemal α‐tubulin, thereby controlling cancer development. Mechanically, METTL3 positively regulates the translation of HDAC6 in an m6A‐dependent manner, while m6A methylation of A3678 in the coding sequence (CDS) of HDAC6 ameliorates its translation efficiency via facilitating the binding with YTHDF3. The upregulation of HDAC6 induced by METTL3 over‐expression is capable of inhibiting cilia elongation and acetylation of α‐tubulin, thereby shortening cilia length and accelerating the progression of cervical cancer both in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, depletion of METTL3‐mediated m6A modification leads to abnormally elongated cilia via suppressing HDAC6‐dependent deacetylation of axonemal α‐tubulin, ultimately attenuating cell growth and cervical cancer development.
Molecular Crowding Solid Polymer Electrolytes for Lithium Metal Battery by In Situ Polymerization
Authors: Zhou Mingjie , Chen Wei , Yang Hui , Hu Yin , Lei Tianyu , Chen Dongjiang , Wang Shuying , Zhang Yagang , Xiong Jie
Published: November 2024

Solid‐state polymer electrolytes (SPEs) require high ionic conductivity and dense contact with the electrodes for high‐performance lithium‐metal solid‐state batteries. However, massive challenges such as poor ionic migration ability, low antioxidant ability, and lithium dendrite formation still remain unresolved. These issues severely restrict its practical applications. Herein, a new type of solid‐state polymer electrolyte with a molecular crowding feature is rationally designed by in situ polymerization of a precursor containing poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) and 1,2‐dimethoxyethane (DME). Noticeably, the prepared SPE expands the electrochemical window to 4.7 V with a high lithium‐ion transfer number of 0.55 and a superior ionic conductivity of 3.6 mS cm−1 at room temperature. As a result, the lithium symmetrical batteries achieve stable cycles with more than 3000 h with no lithium dendrites at a current density of 0.5 mA cm−2. Importantly, this design provides dense contact of solid‐state polymer electrolytes with the porous cathode and lithium anode, allowing the assembled winding‐type solid‐state pouch cells with outstanding cycling stability of 81.7% retention for more than 340 cycles at room temperature. It shows excellent adaption to widely practical technology with large‐scale battery production, offering a new solution for the future development of solid‐state polymer lithium‐metal batteries.
Dual‐Site Anchors Enabling Vertical Molecular Orientation for Efficient All‐Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Bao Yuqi , Zeng Jie , Xu Yintai , Xie Guanshui , Hu Hang , Lei Xia , Wang Deng , Zhang Jiyao , Peng Wenbo , Liu Zhixin , Zhu Peide , Qu Geping , Qiu Longbin , Yan Lei , Zhang Yong , Wang Xingzhu , Xu Baomin
Published: November 2024

All‐perovskite tandem solar cells (TSCs) are gaining increasing attention due to their potential to surpass the efficiency limit of single‐junction solar cells. However, as the bottom low‐bandgap subcells, tin‐lead (Sn‐Pb) perovskites suffer from severe nonradiative recombination at the interfaces due to their susceptibility to oxidation and poor crystalline morphology. Here a surface modifier 4‐(trifluoromethyl)benzhydrazide (TFH) is reported to construct a reductive chemical environment on the surface of perovskite films and protect them from water and oxygen erosion. TFH anchors onto the Sn‐Pb perovskites in a preferred vertical orientation through dual‐site binding, forming interface dipoles that facilitate charge extraction. The reductive hydrazine groups of TFH can effectively inhibit the oxidation of Sn2+ and I−, thereby reducing the defect density and energy disorder of Sn─Pb perovskites. Consequently, the TFH‐treated devices achieved a champion PCE of 22.88%, maintaining over 93% of the initial efficiency after continuous one‐sun illumination for 500 h. Combined with a 1.79 eV wide‐bandgap subcell, it has demonstrated a PCE of 28.17% in all‐perovskite TSCs.
Liquid holdup of gas–liquid two‐phase flow in micro‐packed beds reactors
Authors: Chen Keyi , Lu Yangcheng
Published: November 2024

Liquid holdup is a crucial factor in the study of hydrodynamic behaviors in the micro‐packed bed reactor (μPBR). In this work, the values of liquid holdup are studied with the weighing method with good accuracy. The packed bed is a tube made of stainless steel with a length of 20 cm and an inner diameter of 4 mm, packed with 177–250 μm or 350–500 μm microbeads. The gas and liquid flow rates vary from 5 to 20 mL/min and 0.25 to 2 mL/min, respectively. A new hypothesis of the flow regions is proposed based on the experimental results. Furthermore, a new set of empirical correlation is built with great agreement, particularly for viscous liquids, whose viscosity ranges from 0.99 to 5.98 mPa·s, showing an atypical tendency.
Functional 1,2,4,5‐Tetrazine Systems for Photocatalysis and Sensing
Authors: Raj K. Aswani , Rao M. Rajeswara
Published: November 2024

s‐Tetrazines are aromatic heterocyclic systems with distinct structural and optoelectronic features, which have led to the design and development of tetrazine‐derived systems in various applications. In this review, we summarize all the research reported on the subject of the applicability of tetrazine derivatives for photocatalytic chemical transformation, hydrogen production, and coordination‐based analyte detection.
Revealing Dinitrogen Activation via Mesoionic Carbenes: A Computational Design with Frustrated Lewis Pairs
Authors: Huang Shiqing , Wang Tian , Zhang Zengyu , Yan Xiaoyu
Published: November 2024

Activating dinitrogen under metal‐free conditions remains a significant challenge in chemistry. In this study, we computationally designed a frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) system incorporating a bis(trimethylsilyl)boryl substituent on a mesoionic carbene (MIC) framework. Our models show both kinetic and thermodynamic favorability for dinitrogen activation. Aromaticity enhancement along the potential energy surface (PES) plays a critical role in driving the reaction. This work provides insights into utilizing main‐group elements for dinitrogen activation and offers potential applications in inert molecule activation and optical materials.
Gaps in biomedical research in frontotemporal dementia: A call for diversity and disparities focused research
Authors: Nuytemans Karen , Franzen Sanne , Broce Iris J. , Caramelli Paulo , Ellajosyula Ratnavalli , Finger Elizabeth , Gupta Veer , Gupta Vivek , Illán‐Gala Ignacio , Loi Samantha M. , Morhardt Darby , Pijnenburg Yolande , Rascovsky Katya , Williams Monique M. , Yokoyama Jennifer S. , Acosta‐Uribe Juliana , Akinyemi Rufus , Alladi Suvarna , Ayele Biniyam A. , Ayhan Yavuz , Bourdage Renelle , Castro‐Suarez Sheila , de Souza Leonardo Cruz , Dacks Penny , de Boer Sterre C. M. , de Leon Jessica , Dodge Shana , Grasso Stephanie , Ghoshal Nupur , Kamath Vidyulata , Kumfor Fiona , Matias‐Guiu Jordi A. , Narme Pauline , Nielsen T. Rune , Okhuevbie Daniel , Piña‐Escudero Stefanie , Ruiz‐Garcia Ramiro , Ryan Brigid , Scarioni Marta , Slachevsky Andrea , Suarez‐Gonzalez Aida , Tee Boon Lead , Tsoy Elena , Ulugut Hulya , Onyike Chiadi U. , Babulal Ganesh M. ,   ISTAART Frontotemporal Dementia and Related Disorders PIA, ISTAART Diversity and Disparities PIA
Published: November 2024

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is one of the leading causes of young‐onset dementia before age 65, typically manifesting as abnormal behavior (in behavioral variant FTD) or language impairment (in primary progressive aphasia). Although FTD affects all populations across the globe, knowledge regarding the pathophysiology and genetics derives primarily from studies conducted in North America and Western Europe. Globally, biomedical research for FTD is hindered by variable access to diagnosis, discussed in this group's earlier article, and by reduced access to expertise, funding, and infrastructure. This perspective paper was produced by two professional interest areas of the Alzheimer's Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment (ISTAART) and discusses the field's current status on the cross‐cultural aspects of basic and translational research in FTD (including that focused on epidemiology, genetics, biomarkers, and treatment). It subsequently provides a summary of gaps and needs to address the disparities and advance global FTD biomedical research.
Thorase deficiency causes both Aβ accumulation and tau hyperphosphorylation in mouse brain
Authors: Zhang Han , Cai Menghua , Gao Fei , Yang Jia , Li Chao , Han Jingyi , Wang Yue , Xu Yi , Hu Yu , Chen Hui , He Wei , Zhang Jianmin
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

The pathogenesis of two major pathogenic characters—amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation and hyperphosphorylated tau protein—in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains unclear.

METHODS

Western blot and immunofluorescence staining were performed to detect the proteins in the brains of Thorase conditional knockout/transgenic mice and their littermates. A co‐immunoprecipitation assay was applied to examine the Thorase‐interacting proteins.

RESULTS

Genetic deletion of Thorase resulted in tau hyperphosphorylation and promoted Aβ accumulation in the mouse brain. Conversely, Thorase overexpression alleviated the pathogenesis of AD. Thorase regulated the phosphorylation of tau by targeting specific kinases and theprotein phosphatase 2B (PP2B). Thorase deficiency also impaired microglial phagocytosis and induced neuroinflammation by the activation of the NOD‐like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes in microglia.

DISCUSSION

Thorase may be a potential druggable target for developing therapeutic approaches to treat AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Highlights

Thorase deletion leads to elevated amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition and hyperphosphorylated tau accumulation in the brain.

Thorase regulates the phosphorylation of tau protein via PP2B.

Thorase deficiency impairs microglial phagocytosis and promotesNLRP3‐mediated neuroinflammation.

Overexpression of Thorase alleviates Aβ deposition and tau phosphorylation in the AD mouse model.
Cerebral perfusion and amyloidosis in the oldest‐old
Authors: Dutt Shubir , Woodworth Davis C. , Sajjadi S. Ahmad , Greenia Dana E. , DeCarli Charles , Kawas Claudia H. , Corrada María M. , Nation Daniel A.
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

In a nested case–control study, we examined how cerebral perfusion relates to cognitive status and amyloid in the oldest‐old (i.e., 90 years of age and older).

METHODS

Study participants included 113 dementia‐free older adults (76 cognitively normal [CN]; 37 cognitively impaired, no dementia [CIND]) from the 90+ Study (mean age = 92.9, SD = 2.4). We quantified regional perfusion from arterial spin labeling‐MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and amyloid deposition from florbetapir‐positron emission tomography (PET) in a region comprising the posterior cingulate and precuneus (PCC+PCu), and additionally quantified perfusion in other regions important for cognitive decline (medial temporal lobe, inferior parietal lobe, and orbitofrontal cortex).

RESULTS

Participants with CIND displayed lower perfusion in the PCC+PCu relative to participants who were CN, but there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in amyloid burden in this region. In addition, participants with CIND exhibited lower inferior parietal and higher orbitofrontal perfusion.

DISCUSSION

Cerebral perfusion is related to cognitive status in the oldest‐old independent of amyloidosis.

Highlights

Cerebral perfusion and amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) were measured in older adults: 90 years of age and older.

Perfusion but not amyloid differed between cognitively impaired and normal groups.

Frontal and parietal regions linked to cognitive decline had altered perfusion.

Perfusion is related to cognitive status in the oldest‐old independent of amyloid.
Integrated cerebellar radiomic‐network model for predicting mild cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Chen Yini , Qi Yiwei , Hu Yiying , Qiu Xinhui , Qiu Tao , Li Song , Liu Meichen , Jia Qiqi , Sun Bo , Liu Cong , Li Tianbai , Le Weidong ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

Pathological and neuroimaging alterations in the cerebellum of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients have been documented. However, the role of cerebellum‐derived radiomic and structural connectome modeling in the prediction of AD progression remains unclear.

METHODS

Radiomic features were extracted from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) dataset (n = 1319) and an in‐house dataset (n = 308). Integrated machine learning models were developed to predict the conversion risk of normal cognition (NC) to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) over a 6‐year follow‐up.

RESULTS

The cerebellar models outperformed hippocampal models in distinguishing MCI from NC and in predicting transitions from NC to MCI across both cohorts. Key predictors included textural features in the right III and left I and II lobules, and network properties in Vermis I and II, which were associated with cognitive decline in AD.

DISCUSSION

Cerebellum‐derived radiomic‐network modeling shows promise as a tool for early identification and prediction of disease progression during the preclinical stage of AD.

Highlights

Altered cerebellar radiomic features and topological networks were identified in the subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

The cerebellar radiomic‐network integrated models outperformed hippocampal models in distinguishing MCI from normal cognition.

The cerebellar radiomic model effectively predicts MCI risk and can stratify individuals into distinct risk categories.

Specific cerebellar radiomic features are associated with cognitive impairment across various stages of amyloid beta and tau pathology.
An international core outcome set for primary progressive aphasia (COS‐PPA): Consensus‐based recommendations for communication interventions across research and clinical settings
Authors: Volkmer Anna , Alves Emily Viega , Bar‐Zeev Hagit , Barbieri Elena , Battista Petronilla , Beales Ashleigh , Beber Barbara Costa , Brotherhood Emilie , Cadorio Ines Ribeiro , Carthery‐Goulart Maria Teresa , Cartwright Jade , Crutch Sebastian , Croot Karen , Freitas Maria Isabel d´Ávila , Gallée Jeanne , Grasso Stephanie M. , Haley Katarina , Hendriksen Heleen , Henderson Shalom , Jiskoot Lize , Almeida Isabel Junqueira , Kindell Jackie , Kingma Rachel , Kwan‐Chen Lorinda LY , Lavoie Monica , Lifshitz‐Ben‐Basat Adi , Jokel Regina , Mahut‐Dubos Aurore , Matias‐Guiu Jordi A. , Masson‐Trottier Michèle , Meinzer Marcus , McGowan Ellen , Mendez‐Orellana Carolina , Meyer Aaron M. , Millanski Carly , Montagut Núria , Mooney Aimee , Morhardt Darby J. , Nickels Lyndsey , Norvik Monica , Nowenstein Iris Edda , Paplikar Avanthi , Pozzebon Margaret , Renard Antoine , Ruggero Leanne , Rogalski Emily , Rysop Anna U. , Sand Aronsson Fredrik , Suárez‐González Aida , Savage Sharon , Thi Mai Tran , Tsapkini Kyriana , Taylor‐Rubin Cathleen , Tippett Donna C. , Unger Nina , van Ewijk Lizet , Wielaert Sandra , Winsnes Ingvild Elisabeth , Whitworth Anne , Yasa Ibrahim Can , Copland David , Henry Maya L. , Warren Jason D. , Varley Rosemary , Wallace Sarah J. , Hardy Chris J. D.
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

Interventions to treat speech‐language difficulties in primary progressive aphasia (PPA) often use word accuracy as a highly comparable outcome. However, there are more constructs of importance to people with PPA that have received less attention.

METHODS

Following Core Outcome Set Standards for Development Recommendations (COSSTAD), this study comprised: Stage 1 – systematic review to identify measures; Stage 2 – consensus groups to identify important outcome constructs for people with PPA (n = 82) and care partners (n = 91); Stage 3 – e‐Delphi consensus with 57 researchers.

RESULTS

The systematic review identified 84 Outcome Measurement Instruments. Core outcome constructs identified included: (1) Participate in conversations with family and friends, (2) get words out, (3) be more fluent, (4) convey a message by any means, and (5) understand what others are saying. Researchers were unable to reach a consensus on measurement instruments.

DISCUSSION

Further work is required to develop appropriate measurement instruments that address all core outcome constructs important to key stakeholders.

Highlights

We introduce new symptom‐led perspectives on primary progressive aphasia (PPA).

The focus is on non‐fluent/agrammatic (nfvPPA) and semantic (svPPA) variants.

Foregrounding of early and non‐verbal features of PPA and clinical trajectories is featured.

We introduce a symptom‐led staging scheme for PPA.

We propose a prototype for a functional impairment scale, the PPA Progression Planning Aid.