bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispersion‐Compensated Terahertz Ultra‐Broadband Quarter and Half Wave Plates in a Dielectric‐Metal Hybrid Metadevice
Authors: Xu Shi‐Tong , Zhang Hui‐Fang , Cong Longqing , Xue Zhanqiang , Lu Dan , Wang Ying‐Hua , Hu Xiaofei , Liang Lanju , Ji Yunyun , Fan Fei , Chang Sheng‐Jiang
Published: January 2024

Manipulating terahertz (THz) polarization in an efficient and broadband manner is of great significance to facilitating THz applications, including communications, imaging, defense, and homeland security. In this work, a dispersion compensation scheme is proposed for high‐efficiency and ultra‐broadband THz polarization manipulation using an anisotropic dielectric‐metal hybrid metadevice. The operating bandwidth is broadened by dispersion compensation, where the dielectric grating provides an artificial birefringence with a phase dispersion of positive slope and the metallic grating provides a phase dispersion of negative slope. Experimental results show that the device achieves two ultra‐broadband dispersion compensation, corresponding to the achromatic quarter‐wave plate in the lower frequency band (QWP: 0.5–2.0 THz, PCR >0.95) and the achromatic half‐wave plate in the higher frequency band (HWP: 1.0–2.1 THz, PCR >0.9), respectively. Theoretically, the bandwidth of QWP can be further improved to 2.6 THz by optimizing the grating dispersion, which brings huge application space to cover most of the THz radiation. This hybrid metadevice configuration offers a versatile platform for engineering electromagnetic waves, and the strategy of phase compensation can be generalized to extend the bandwidth of the metadevice in imaging and communications.
Molecular Engineering Enables Multi‐Color Room Temperature Phosphorescence of Carbon Dots Composites Derived In Situ, Facilitating their Utilization for Advanced Information Encryption
Authors: Guan Zhihao , Tang Zhaorun , Zeng Jianwen , Deng Junjie , Zheng Yuewei , Li Houbin , Liu Xinghai
Published: January 2024

Long‐life room temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials hold significant potential in the fields of optoelectronic devices, information encryption, and bio‐imaging due to their excellent optical properties. However, achieving multi‐color tunable RTP materials has proven challenging. In this study, molecular engineering strategies are employed to select precursor molecules with varying degrees of conjugation such as phthalic anhydride (PA), naphtho[2,3‐c] furan‐1,3‐dione (23NA), and naphthalic anhydride (NA). By combining these guest molecules with a host boric acid matrix through a one‐step microwave method, carbon dots (CDs)composites (PA@BA, 23NA@BA and NA@BA) exhibiting excellent RTP properties are successfully prepared. As the degree of precursor conjugation increased gradually, the phosphorescence color modulation of the composites demonstrates satisfactory transitions from blue to yellow. Notably, CDs are derived in situ within the boric acid matrix while covalent and hydrogen bonds formed between CDs and borate matrix effectively suppress nonradiative leaps and facilitate composite RTP activation. Furthermore, the boric acid matrix acts as insulation against oxygen diffusion and prevents quenching of triplet excitons by external factors. The rationality behind phosphorescence emission mechanism and wavelength modulation is further conformed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Finally, CDs composites are successfully applied for advanced message encryption of text and images.
Ta2NiSe5/MoTe2/Graphene van der Waals Heterostructures Toward Ultrabroadband and Polarization‐Sensitive Imaging
Authors: Zhang Qiyang , Wu Ziqiao , Chen Xiqiang , Gao Wei , Yang Mengmeng , Xiao Ye , Yao Jiandong , Liang Ying , Zheng Zhaoqiang , Tao Lili , Li Jingbo
Published: January 2024

Ultrabroadband and polarization‐sensitive imaging are essential for pioneering advancements in intelligent technology, offering a pivotal pathway to multidimensional information extraction. However, the dearth of appropriate photosensitive semiconductors in the infrared region and the lack of suitably efficient device architecture for the separation and collection of photocarriers significantly impede the development of ultra‐broadband and polarization‐sensitive photodetectors. To address these challenges, a sandwiched Ta2NiSe5/MoTe2/Graphene heterostructure device is engineered. In this device, efficient and polarization‐sensitive photocarriers are generated in the top Ta2NiSe5 layer, rapidly separated through the middle MoTe2 layer, and effectively collected by the bottom graphene layer. As a result, the developed photodetector exhibits an ultra‐broadband and polarization‐sensitive photoresponse that extends from visible light (520 nm) to short‐wave infrared (2200 nm). At 2200 nm, the device displays a notable responsivity of 5.79 A W−1, a specific detectivity of 1010 Jones, and an anisotropic ratio of 1.44. Furthermore, this device successfully demonstrates high‐resolution ultra‐broadband and polarized light imaging capabilities. This study thus presents an intriguing blueprint for the development of advanced 2D imaging platforms for future‐generation intelligent systems.
Pea Protein‐Rich Scaffolds Support 3D Bovine Skeletal Muscle Formation for Cultivated Meat Application
Authors: David Shlomit , Ianovici Iris , Guterman Ram Gali , Shaulov Dvir Yana , Lavon Neta , Levenberg Shulamit
Published: January 2024

In recent years, intensive efforts made to harness tissue engineering techniques to develop cultivated meat. Sustainable meat substitutes are a promising solution for the expected world food shortage; however, multiple challenges still pose barriers to the mass, low‐cost production of nutritious cultivated meat. This work is focused on the development of edible nutritious 3D scaffolds for the production of bovine muscle tissue for cultivated meat. Protein‐rich scaffolds composed of pea protein are prepared using mold‐casting and bioprinting techniques. The plant‐based scaffolds supported bovine satellite cells' attachment, growth, and differentiation into muscle tissue without the need for coating agents or high‐cost components. The presented pea‐protein‐rich scaffolds are of high nutritional value, with low allergenicity, and can be processed under low fabrication costs, which can significantly advance the commercial production of nutritious and sustainable cultivated meat.
An Electroencephalography Profile of Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Dyskinesia
Authors: Luo Huichun , Huang Xiaojun , Li Ziyi , Tian Wotu , Fang Kan , Liu Taotao , Wang Shige , Tang Beisha , Hu Ji , Yuan Ti‐Fei , Cao Li
Published: January 2024

Paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD) is associated with a disturbance of neural circuit and network activities, while its neurophysiological characteristics have not been fully elucidated. This study utilized the high‐density electroencephalogram (hd‐EEG) signals to detect abnormal brain activity of PKD and provide a neural biomarker for its clinical diagnosis and PKD progression monitoring. The resting hd‐EEGs are recorded from two independent datasets and then source‐localized for measuring the oscillatory activities and function connectivity (FC) patterns of cortical and subcortical regions. The abnormal elevation of theta oscillation in wildly brain regions represents the most remarkable physiological feature for PKD and these changes returned to healthy control level in remission patients. Another remarkable feature of PKD is the decreased high‐gamma FCs in non‐remission patients. Subtype analyses report that increased theta oscillations may be related to the emotional factors of PKD, while the decreased high‐gamma FCs are related to the motor symptoms. Finally, the authors established connectome‐based predictive modelling and successfully identified the remission state in PKD patients in dataset 1 and dataset 2. The findings establish a clinically relevant electroencephalography profile of PKD and indicate that hd‐EEG can provide robust neural biomarkers to evaluate the prognosis of PKD.
Inhaled “Muco‐Trapping” Monoclonal Antibody Effectively Treats Established Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infections
Authors: McSweeney Morgan D. , Alnajjar Sarhad , Schaefer Alison M. , Richardson Zach , Wolf Whitney , Stewart Ian , Sriboonyapirat Pun , McCallen Justin , Farmer Ellen , Nzati Bernadette , Lord Sam , Farrer Brian , Moench Thomas R. , Kumar Priya A. , Arora Harendra , Pickles Raymond J. , Hickey Anthony J. , Ackermann Mark , Lai Samuel K.
Published: January 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes substantial morbidity and mortality in infants, the immunocompromised, and the elderly. RSV infects the airway epithelium via the apical membrane and almost exclusively sheds progeny virions back into the airway mucus (AM), making RSV difficult to target by systemically administered therapies. An inhalable “muco‐trapping” variant of motavizumab (Mota‐MT), a potent neutralizing mAb against RSV F is engineered. Mota‐MT traps RSV in AM via polyvalent Fc‐mucin bonds, reducing the fraction of fast‐moving RSV particles in both fresh pediatric and adult AM by ≈20–30‐fold in a Fc‐glycan dependent manner, and facilitates clearance from the airways of mice within minutes. Intranasal dosing of Mota‐MT eliminated viral load in cotton rats within 2 days. Daily nebulized delivery of Mota‐MT to RSV‐infected neonatal lambs, beginning 3 days after infection when viral load is at its maximum, led to a 10 000‐fold and 100 000‐fold reduction in viral load in bronchoalveolar lavage and lung tissues relative to placebo control, respectively. Mota‐MT‐treated lambs exhibited reduced bronchiolitis, neutrophil infiltration, and airway remodeling than lambs receiving placebo or intramuscular palivizumab. The findings underscore inhaled delivery of muco‐trapping mAbs as a promising strategy for the treatment of RSV and other acute respiratory infections.
Spatial Confinement of Pt Nanoparticles in Carbon Nanotubes for Efficient and Selective H2 Evolution from Methanol
Authors: Jin Xiaotao , Yan Jiaying , Liu Xiang , Zhang Qing , Huang Yingping , Wang Yanlan , Wang Changlong , Wu Yufeng
Published: January 2024

H2 generation from methanol‐water mixtures often requires high pressure and high temperature (200–300 °C). However, CO can be easily generated and poison the catalytic system under such high temperature. Therefore, it is highly desirable to develop the efficient catalytic systems for H2 production from methanol at room temperature, even at sub‐zero temperatures. Herein, carbon nanotube‐supported Pt nanocomposites are designed and synthesized as high‐performance nano‐catalysts, via stabilization of Pt nanoparticles onto carbon nanotube (CNT), for H2 production upon methanol dehydrogenation at sub‐zero temperatures. Therein, the optimal Pt/CNT nanocomposite presents the superior catalytic performance in H2 production upon methanol dehydrogenation at the expense of B2(OH)4, with the TOF of 299.51 min‐130 oC. Compared with other common carriers, Pt/CNT exhibited the highest catalytic performance in H2 production, emphasizing the critical role of CNT in methanol dehydrogenation. The confinement of Pt nanoparticles by CNTs is conducive to inhibiting the aggregation of Pt nanoparticles, thereby significantly increasing its catalytic performance and stability. The kinetic study, detailed mechanistic insights, and density functional theory (DFT) calculation confirm that the breaking of O─H bond of CH3OH is the rate‐controlling step for methanol dehydrogenation, and both H atoms of H2 are supplied by methanol. Interestingly, H2 is also successfully produced from methanol dehydrogenation at −10 °C, which absolutely solves the freezing problem in the H2 evolution upon water‐splitting reaction.
Long‐Range Hot‐Carrier Transport in Topologically Connected HgTe Quantum Dots
Authors: Huang Xinning , Qin Yilu , Guo Tianle , Liu Jingjing , Hu Zhourui , Shang Jiale , Li Hongfu , Deng Gongrong , Wu Shuaiqin , Chen Yan , Lin Tie , Shen Hong , Ge Jun , Meng Xiangjian , Wang Xudong , Chu Junhao , Wang Jianlu
Published: January 2024

The utilization of hot carriers as a means to surpass the Shockley‐Queasier limit represents a promising strategy for advancing highly efficient photovoltaic devices. Quantum dots, owing to their discrete energy states and limited multi‐phonon cooling process, are regarded as one of the most promising materials. However, in practical implementations, the presence of numerous defects and discontinuities in colloidal quantum dot (CQD) films significantly curtails the transport distance of hot carriers. In this study, the harnessing of excess energies from hot‐carriers is successfully demonstrated and a world‐record carrier diffusion length of 15 µm is observed for the first time in colloidal systems, surpassing existing hot‐carrier materials by more than tenfold. The observed phenomenon is attributed to the specifically designed honeycomb‐like topological structures in a HgTe CQD superlattice, with its long‐range periodicity confirmed by High‐Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy(HR‐TEM), Selected Area Electron Diffraction(SAED) patterns, and low‐angle X‐ray diffraction (XRD). In such a superlattice, nonlocal hot carrier transport is supported by three unique physical properties: the wavelength‐independent responsivity, linear output characteristics and microsecond fast photoresponse. These findings underscore the potential of HgTe CQD superlattices as a feasible approach for efficient hot carrier collection, thereby paving the way for practical applications in highly sensitive photodetection and solar energy harvesting.
Piezo‐Acoustic Resistive Switching Behaviors in High‐Performance Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Memristors
Authors: Liu Zehan , Cheng Pengpeng , Kang Ruyan , Zhou Jian , Wang Xiaoshan , Zhao Xian , Zhao Jia , Liu Duo , Zuo Zhiyuan
Published: January 2024

Memristors are regarded as promising candidates for breaking the problems including high off‐chip memory access delays and the hash rate cost of frequent data moving induced by algorithms for data‐intensive applications of existing computational systems. Recently, organic–inorganic halide perovskites (OIHPs) have been recognized as exceptionally favorable materials for memristors due to ease of preparation, excellent electrical conductivity, and structural flexibility. However, research on OIHP‐based memristors focuses on modulating resistive switching (RS) performance through electric fields, resulting in difficulties in moving away from complex external circuits and wire connections. Here, a multilayer memristor has been constructed with eutectic gallium and indium (EGaIn)/ MAPbI3/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(4‐styrenesulphonate) (PEDOT: PSS)/indium tin oxide (ITO) structure, which exhibits reproducible and reliable bipolar RS with low SET/RESET voltages, stable endurance, ultrahigh average ON/OFF ratio, and excellent retention. Importantly, based on ion migration activated by sound‐driven piezoelectric effects, the device exhibits a stable acoustic response with an average ON/OFF ratio greater than 103, thus realizing non‐contact, multi‐signal, and far‐field control in RS modulation. This study provides a single‐structure multifunctional memristor as an integrated architecture for sensing, data storage, and computing.
Tunable Low‐Pressure Water Adsorption in Stable Multivariate Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Boosting Water‐Based Ultralow‐Temperature‐Driven Refrigeration
Authors: Guo Chen‐Han , Lu Feng‐Fan , Wu Enyu , Wang Jia‐Xin , Gu Defa , Li Bin , Qian Guodong
Published: January 2024

The green water‐based adsorption refrigeration is considered as a promising strategy to realize near‐zero‐carbon cooling applications. Although many metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have been developed as water adsorbents, their cooling performance are commonly limited by the insufficient water uptakes below P/P0 = 0.2. Herein, the development of multivariate MOFs (MTV‐MOFs) is reported to highly modulate and boost the low‐pressure water uptake for improving coefficient of performance (COP) for refrigeration. Through ligand exchange in the pristine MIL‐125‐NH2, a series of MTV‐MOFs with bare nitrogen sites are designed and synthesized. The resulting MIL‐125‐NH2/MD‐5% exhibits the significantly improved water uptake of 0.39 g g−1 at 298 K and P/P0 = 0.2, which is three times higher than MIL‐125‐NH2 (0.12 g g−1) and comparable to some benchmark materials including KMF‐1 (0.4 g g−1) and MIP‐200 (0.36 g g−1). Combined with its low‐temperature regeneration, fast sorption kinetics and high stability, MIL‐125‐NH2/MD‐5% achieves one of the highest COP values (0.8) and working capacities (0.24 g g−1) for refrig‐2 under an ultralow‐driven temperature of 65 °C, which are higher than some best‐performing MOFs such as MIP‐200 (0.74 and 0.11 g g−1) and KMF‐2 (0.62 and 0.16 g g−1), making it among the best adsorbents for efficient ultralow‐temperature‐driven refrigeration.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Oxytrifluoromethylation of N‐Allylamides toward Trifluoromethyl‐Containing Oxazolines
Authors: Han Jun‐Fa , Gao Fang‐Ling , Chen Lin , He Zi‐Xin , Lin Yuqi , Ye Ke‐Yin
Published: January 2024

We herein report a cobalt‐catalyzed intramolecular oxytrifluoromethylation of N‐allylamides for the efficient synthesis of trifluoromethyl‐containing oxazolines with Togni's reagent II as the trifluoromethyl precursor. The protocol features mild reaction conditions and good functional group compatibility. Preliminary mechanistic investigations suggest the involvement of free radicals in this transformation.
Total Synthesis of the Guangnanmycin A Alcohol
Authors: Yahata Kenzo , Fürstner Alois
Published: January 2024

Guangnanmycin A is a recently discovered congener of the well‐known antitumor drug lead leinamycin; its macrolactam ring, however, is even more strained than that of the parent compound. The first synthetic foray towards this challenging target is reported, which relies on molybdenum‐catalyzed macrocyclization by ring closing alkyne metathesis (RCAM) followed by ruthenium‐catalyzed redox isomerization of the propargyl alcohol thus formed; the resulting enone enabled the introduction of the yet missing exo‐methylene group by a modified Peterson olefination. The signature disulfide moiety of guangnanmycin A was installed by strain‐driven thia‐Michael addition followed by conversion of the thioether thus formed into an unsymmetric disulfide with the aid of (methylthio)dimethylsulfonium tetrafluoroborate and MeSSMe. While this sequence furnished racemic guangnanmycin A alcohol in good overall yield, the final oxidation to the corresponding acid failed, most likely because of the exceptional sensitivity of the strained scaffold.
Improving Rate Performance of Encapsulating Lithium‐Polysulfide Electrolytes for Practical Lithium−Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Su Li‐Ling , Yao Nan , Li Zheng , Bi Chen‐Xi , Chen Zi‐Xian , Chen Xiang , Li Bo‐Quan , Zhang Xue‐Qiang , Huang Jia‐Qi
Published: January 2024

The cycle life of high‐energy‐density lithium−sulfur (Li−S) batteries is severely plagued by the incessant parasitic reactions between Li metal anodes and reactive Li polysulfides (LiPSs). Encapsulating Li‐polysulfide electrolyte (EPSE) emerges as an effective electrolyte design to mitigate the parasitic reactions kinetically. Nevertheless, the rate performance of Li−S batteries with EPSE is synchronously suppressed. Herein, the sacrifice in rate performance by EPSE is circumvented while mitigating parasitic reactions by employing hexyl methyl ether (HME) as a co‐solvent. The specific capacity of Li−S batteries with HME‐based EPSE is nearly not decreased at 0.1 C compared with conventional ether electrolytes. With an ultrathin Li metal anode (50 μm) and a high‐areal‐loading sulfur cathode (4.4 mgS cm−2), a longer cycle life of 113 cycles was achieved in HME‐based EPSE compared with that of 65 cycles in conventional ether electrolytes at 0.1 C. Furthermore, both high energy density of 387 Wh kg−1 and stable cycle life of 27 cycles were achieved in a Li−S pouch cell (2.7 Ah). This work inspires the feasibility of regulating the solvation structure of LiPSs in EPSE for Li−S batteries with balanced performance.
Tuning Shortwave‐Infrared J‐aggregates of Aromatic Ring‐Fused Aza‐BODIPYs by Peripheral Substituents for Combined Photothermal and Photodynamic Therapies at Ultralow Laser Power
Authors: Guo Xing , Sheng Wanle , Pan Hongfei , Guo Luying , Zuo Huiquan , Wu Zeyu , Ling Shizhang , Jiang Xiaochun , Chen Zhijian , Jiao Lijuan , Hao Erhong
Published: January 2024

Achieving photothermal therapy (PTT) at ultralow laser power density is crucial for minimizing photo‐damage and allowing for higher maximum permissible skin exposure. However, this requires photothermal agents to possess not just superior photothermal conversion efficiency (PCE), but also exceptional near‐infrared (NIR) absorptivity. J‐aggregates, exhibit a significant redshift and narrower absorption peak with a higher extinction coefficient. Nevertheless, achieving predictable J‐aggregates through molecular design remains a challenge. In this study, we successfully induced desirable J‐aggregation (λabsmax: 968 nm, ϵ: 2.96×105 M−1 cm−1, λemmax: 972 nm, ΦFL: 6.2 %) by tuning electrostatic interactions between π‐conjugated molecular planes through manipulating molecular surface electrostatic potential of aromatic ring‐fused aza‐BODIPY dyes. Notably, by controlling the preparation method for encapsulating dyes into F‐127 polymer, we were able to selectively generate H‐/J‐aggregates, respectively. Furthermore, the J‐aggregates exhibited two controllable morphologies: nanospheres and nanowires. Importantly, the shortwave‐infrared J‐aggregated nanoparticles with impressive PCE of 72.9 % effectively destroyed cancer cells and mice‐tumors at an ultralow power density of 0.27 W cm−2 (915 nm). This phototherapeutic nano‐platform, which generates predictable J‐aggregation behavior, and can controllably form J‐/H‐aggregates and selectable J‐aggregate morphology, is a valuable paradigm for developing photothermal agents for tumor‐treatment at ultralow laser power density.
How the incentives of participating organizations influence the current scales of coral reef restoration activities
Authors: Gibbs Mark , Jackel Karen , Ames Josh , McLeod Ian
Published: January 2024

Coral reef restoration activities have increased globally over recent decades in response to the ongoing decline in condition of the worlds' reefs.

Current practices of coral reef restoration are now undertaken in most of the tropical regions of the world. However, the scale of individual projects remains small in the context of the scale of threats to reefs.

An increasing number of studies have considered the barriers to scaling up projects, but few of these have considered the critical role that participating organizations play in influencing and determining the scale that projects can achieve. An institutional analysis is undertaken here to elucidate these barriers.

The primary conclusion from this analysis is that the present mix of organizations undertaking reef restoration activities will likely have to alter as at‐scale approaches are introduced.

What this new mix of organizations will look like will be location‐specific and dependent upon for example health and safety, and environmental approvals requirements, and the requirements for funding and operating infrastructure.
Refined sliding mode disturbance observer‐based finite‐time composite control for Euler–Lagrange systems with multiple disturbances
Authors: Zhu Yukai , Liu Zengbo , Qiao Jianzhong
Published: January 2024

A wide range of practical control systems such as robot manipulators and spacecrafts can be modeled by Euler–Lagrange systems. On one hand, the requirements for system control accuracy, response speed, and robustness are ever increasing. On the other hand, the control performances are inevitably degraded by multiple disturbances. In this paper, a novel finite‐time composite control law is proposed for a class of Euler–Lagrange systems subject to multiple heterogeneous disturbances including a neutrally stable disturbance and a norm‐bounded disturbance. More specifically, a refined sliding mode disturbance observer (RSMDO) is proposed to estimate and reject the neutrally stable disturbance in the feedforward channel, while an adaptive nonsingular backstepping control (ANBC) is designed in the feedback channel to stabilize the system and attenuate the observer error as well as the norm‐bounded disturbance. The proposed RSMDO can not only fully utilize the disturbance information, but also quantify the convergence time and steady‐state accuracy of the estimation error. The finite‐time stability analysis is carried out for the closed‐loop system. Finally, an example of spacecraft attitude control system is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Modified Riccati iterative algorithms for stochastic coupled algebraic Riccati equations of linear stochastic Markovian jump systems
Authors: Liu Meijun , Zhao Xueyan , Deng Feiqi
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the stochastic coupled algebraic Riccati equations (SCAREs) associated with linear stochastic Markovian jump systems. First, two existing algorithms utilized to solve the SCAREs are reviewed and discussed. Second, based on the analysis of these two algorithms, a modified Riccati iterative algorithm is proposed with a tuning parameter added. It is verified that the proposed algorithm with zero initial values converges to the unique positive definite solution of the SCAREs with fast speed. Furthermore, two numerical examples are given to verify the efficiency and superiority of the proposed algorithm.
Ammonium Bifluoride‐Etched MXene Modified Electrode for the All−Vanadium Redox Flow Battery
Authors: Pahlevaninezhad Maedeh , Sadri Rad , Momodu Damilola , Eisawi Karamullah , Pahlevani Majid , Naguib Michael , Roberts Edward P. L.
Published: January 2024

The development of electrodes with high performance and long‐term stability is crucial for commercial application of vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). This study compared the performance of VRFB with thermal‐treated and MXene‐modified carbon paper. To prepare the MXene, a modified‐etching process with ammonium−bifluoride (NH4HF2) led to a mild and efficient conversion of the MAX‐phase to MXene compared to etching process with hydrofluoric‐acid (HF). Electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction studies revealed that the etching process with NH4HF2 led to MXene nanostructures with a large interlayer spacing. The results show that at a current density of 60 mA cm−2, the energy efficiency increased by 25.5 % when using a NH4HF2 ‐etched MXene‐modified negative electrode, by 12.5 % with a thermal‐treated MXene‐modified electrode, and by 4 % with an HF‐etched MXene‐modified electrode, in comparison to the pristine electrode. The maximum power density of the battery was increased by more than 40 %. In long‐term cycling experiments the MXene modified electrode exhibited excellent stability over 1000 cycles of charge‐discharge, with 0.05 % discharge capacity decay per cycle, amongst the lowest values reported to date and four times lower than for thermally‐treated electrode. The superior performance was linked to the improved electrical conductivity and wettability, higher interlayer spacing, and lower charge transfer resistance for the V2+/V3+ redox reaction.
Acoustic levitation as a tool for cell‐driven self‐organization of human cell spheroids during long‐term 3D culture
Authors: Rabiet Lucile , Arakelian Lousineh , Jeger‐Madiot Nathan , García Duván Rojas , Larghero Jérôme , Aider Jean‐Luc
Published: January 2024

Acoustic levitation, which allows contactless manipulation of micro‐objects with ultrasounds, is a promising technique for spheroids formation and culture. This acoustofluidic technique favors cell–cell interactions, away from the walls of the chip, which leads to the spontaneous self‐organization of cells. Using this approach, we generated spheroids of mesenchymal stromal cells, hepatic and endothelial cells, and showed that long‐term culture of cells in acoustic levitation is feasible. We also demonstrated that this self‐organization and its dynamics depended weakly on the acoustic parameters but were strongly dependent on the levitated cell type. Moreover, spheroid organization was modified by actin cytoskeleton inhibitors or calcium‐mediated interaction inhibitors. Our results confirmed that acoustic levitation is a rising technique for fundamental research and biotechnological industrial application in the rapidly growing field of microphysiological systems. It allowed easily obtaining spheroids of specific and predictable shape and size, which could be cultivated over several days, without requiring hydrogels or extracellular matrix.
Contrasting clinical outcomes and socio‐economic impact of young versus elderly‐onset oral squamous cell carcinoma, a novel health economic analysis
Authors: Singh Manraj , Thankappan Krishnakumar , Balasubramanian Deepak , Pillai Vijay , Shetty Vivek , Rangappa Vidyabhushan , Chandrasekhar Naveen Hedne , Kekatpure Vikram , Kuriakose Moni Abraham , Krishnamurthy Arvind , Mitra Arun , Pattatheyil Arun , Jain Prateek , Iyer Subramania , Iyer N. Gopalakrishna , Subramaniam Narayana ,   the Head and Neck Cooperative Oncology Group
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The incidence of young‐onset oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is growing, even among non‐smokers/drinkers. The effects of adverse histopathological features on long‐term oncologic outcomes between the young and old are controversial and confounded by significant heterogeneity. Few studies have evaluated the socio‐economic impact of premature mortality from OSCC. Our study seeks to quantify these differences and their economic impact on society.

Materials and Methods

Four hundred and seventy‐eight young (<45 years) and 1660 old patients (≥45 years) with OSCC were studied. Logistic regression determined predictors of recurrence and death. Survival analysis was calculated via the Kaplan–Meier method. A separate health economic analysis was conducted for India and Singapore. Years of Potential Productive Life Lost (YPPLL) were estimated with the Human Capital Approach, and premature mortality cost was derived using population‐level data.

Results

Adverse histopathological features were seen more frequently in young OSCC: PNI (42.9% vs. 35%, p = 0.002), LVI (22.4% vs. 17.3%, p = 0.013) and ENE (36% vs. 24.5%, p < 0.001). Although 5‐year OS/DSS were similar, the young cohort had received more intensive adjuvant therapy (CCRT 26.9% vs. 16.6%, p < 0.001). Among Singaporean males, the premature mortality cost per death was US $396,528, and per YPPLL was US $45,486. This was US $397,402 and US $38,458 for females. Among Indian males, the premature mortality cost per death was US $30,641, and per YPPLL was US $595. This was US $ 21,038 and US $305 for females.

Conclusion

Young‐onset OSCC is an aggressive disease, mitigated by the ability to receive intensive adjuvant treatment. From our loss of productivity analysis, the socio‐economic costs from premature mortality are substantial. Early cancer screening and educational outreach campaigns should be tailored to this cohort. Alongside, more funding should be diverted to genetic research, developing novel biomarkers and improving the efficacy of adjuvant treatment in OSCC.
Isolation, Cytotoxicity, and In‐silico Screening of Coumarins from Psoralea corylifolia Linn.
Authors: Tripathi Nancy , Parmar Aarati , Pandey Nilesh , Bhardwaj Nivedita , Chakrabarty Sanheeta , Sarkar Ruma , Kumar Hemant , Jain Shreyans K.
Published: January 2024

Psoralea corylifolia (syn. Cullen corylifolium), commonly called bawachi, is a medicinal plant extensively used for skin conditions like leukoderma, vitiligo, and psoriasis. It is notably rich in valuable bioactive compounds, particularly coumarins and furanocoumarins. This study isolated fourteen coumarins from P. corylifolia which were tested for cytotoxicity using the MTT assay, with compound 10 showing good cytotoxicity against A549 cells (IC50 0.9 μM), while compound 1, compound 2, and compound 3 displaying potential cytotoxicity against MDA‐MB‐231 cells (IC50 0.49 μM, 0.56 μM, and 0.84 μM respectively). Additionally, the compounds′ interaction with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) protein, highly expressed in both cell lines, was investigated through molecular modeling studies, that aligned well with cytotoxicity results. The findings revealed the remarkable cytotoxic potential of four coumarins 1, 2, 3, and 10 against A549 and MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines.
Retracted: Can the chemical industry solve the climate change? On the role of human energy production, renewable energies, and the potential of chemistry as a solution provider
Authors: Bertau Martin , Steiner Gerald
Published: January 2024

Chemie Ingenieur Technik 2023, 202300158

https://doi.org/10.1002/cite.202300158

The above article published online on 26 October 2023 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com) has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor in Chief, Sabine Wiederhold, and Wiley‐VCH GmbH. The retraction has been agreed upon following the identification of calculation errors that invalidate statements of the paper. The authors were not aware of these errors prior to publication and deeply apologize for the oversight.
Topographical depth reveals contact guidance mechanism distinct from focal adhesion confinement
Authors: Robitaille Michael C. , Kim Chunghwan , Christodoulides Joseph A. , Calhoun Patrick J. , Kang Wonmo , Liu Jinny , Byers Jeff M. , Raphael Marc P.
Published: January 2024

Cellular response to the topography of their environment, known as contact guidance, is a crucial aspect to many biological processes yet remains poorly understood. A prevailing model to describe cellular contact guidance involves the lateral confinement of focal adhesions (FA) by topography as an underlying mechanism governing how cells can respond to topographical cues. However, it is not clear how this model is consistent with the well‐documented depth‐dependent contact guidance responses in the literature. To investigate this model, we fabricated a set of contact guidance chips with lateral dimensions capable of confining focal adhesions and relaxing that confinement at various depths. We find at the shallowest depth of 330 nm, the model of focal adhesion confinement is consistent with our observations. However, the cellular response at depths of 725 and 1000 nm is inadequately explained by this model. Instead, we observe a distinct reorganization of F‐actin at greater depths in which topographically induced cell membrane deformation alters the structure of the cytoskeleton. These results are consistent with an alternative curvature‐hypothesis to explain cellular response to topographical cues. Together, these results indicate a confluence of two molecular mechanisms operating at increased induced membrane curvature that govern how cells sense and respond to topography.
Changes in Secondary Structure and Properties of Bovine Serum Albumin as a Result of Interactions with a Gold Surface
Authors: Tworek Paulina , Rakowski Kamil , Szota Magdalena , Lekka Małgorzata , Jachimska Barbara
Published: January 2024

The front cover artwork is provided by Prof. Barbara Jachimska's group at the Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, PAS. The image represents the process of changes in the secondary structure of Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) as a result of its interactions with a gold surface. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/cphc.202300505.
Liquid metal droplet dynamics
Authors: Zhao Xi , Qiao Mengwen , Zhou Yingxin , Liu Jing
Published: January 2024

The unique properties to combine the dual merits of both liquids and metals together make the gallium‐based liquid metal (LM) droplets a class of unconventional substitute which possess great potential for a group of newly emerging areas, such as stretchable electronics, soft devices, micro sensors and actuators. In addition, LM droplets are undoubtedly an intriguing target worth of pursuing in fundamental hydrodynamic investigations due to their extremely high surface tension nature compared to classical nonmetallic fluids. Since the discovery of the diverse transformation phenomena and self‐fueled droplet mollusks of LM that can move automatically in solution via single electricity or even without any external energy supply, tremendous attentions were attracted to this special fluidic object of LM droplets. Over the past decade, there has been a proliferation of explorations on LM droplet dynamics, while the involved contents are heterogeneous due to the interfacial physical/chemical activity of the LM and the diversity of the kinetic behaviors. To better understand and manipulate the droplet behavior and to promote further development of the LMs, this review is dedicated to summarize the latest progress and presents an overview on basic findings related to LM macro‐droplet dynamics. Firstly, the extended definition of LM droplets and the corresponding fabrication methods are given. Then, typical works on LM droplet dynamics are systematically interpreted based on their different behavior categories. Finally, the perspectives, main obstacles and challenges restricting the development of LM droplet dynamics are pointed out.
Comprehensive metabolic investigation of dopamine reuptake inhibitor HDMP‐28 in equine liver microsomes and Cunninghamella elegans for doping control
Authors: Muhammed Ajeebsanu Meleparappil , Subhahar Michael Benedict , Karakka Kal Abdul Khader , Philip Moses , Perwad Zubair , Karatt Tajudheen Kunhamu , Graiban Fatma Mohammed , Joseph Marina , Jose Shantymol V.
Published: January 2024

A dopamine reuptake inhibitor is a type of medication or substance that works by blocking the reuptake of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine reuptake inhibitors offer multiple effects, including increased alertness, improved mood, and therapeutic potential for conditions like depression, ADHD, and Parkinson's disease. HDMP‐28, or methylnaphthidate, is a potent synthetic stimulant from the phenyltropane class. It surpasses methylphenidate in both dopamine reuptake inhibition and half‐life. As a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, it boosts dopamine levels by hindering reuptake into nerve cells, resulting in heightened stimulation and increased energy. In order to comprehensively address both the tangible and potential repercussions of the unauthorized utilization of the aforementioned substance in sports, it is imperative to establish analytical methodologies for the identification of the parent drug and its primary metabolites. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis of the metabolic characteristics of HDMP‐28 in both human and animal subjects has yet to be published. This study explores the metabolic conversion of HDMP‐28 mediated by equine liver microsomes and Cunninghamella elegans. An extraction and detection method was developed, optimized, and validated for doping assessment in equine urine and plasma. Liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry was employed to determine metabolite structures. The study identified 31 (22 phase I and 9 phase II) metabolites of HDMP‐28, including hydroxylated, hydrogenated, and hydrolyzed analogs. Glucuronic acid‐conjugated metabolites were also detected. This manuscript describes metabolites based on the in vitro studies, which might not be the same in vivo. These findings aid in the detection and understanding of the illicit use of HDMP‐28 in equestrian sports.
A facile double moving redox boundary model for visual electrophoresis titration of ascorbic acid
Authors: Liu Qian , Chen Keer , Xu Xu , Zhang Qiang , Liang Heng , Cao Chengxi
Published: January 2024

In this work, we proposed a double moving redox boundary (MROB) model to realize the colorless analyte electrophoresis titration (ET) by the two steps of the redox reaction. Single MROB has been proposed for the development of ET sensing (Analyst, 2013, 138, 1137. ACS Sensor, 2019, 4, 126.), and faces great challenges in detecting the analyte without color change during redox reaction. Herein, a novel model of double‐MROB electrophoresis, including its mechanisms, equations, and procedures, was developed for titration by using ascorbic acid as a model analyte. The first MROB was created with ferric iron (Fe3+) and iodide ion (I−) in which Fe3+ was reduced as Fe2+ and I− was oxidized as molecular iodine (I2) used as an indicator of visible MROB due to blue starch–iodine complex. The second boundary was then formed between the molecular iodine and model analyte of ascorbic acid. Under given conditions, there was a quantitative relationship between velocity of MROB (VMROB(ii)) and ascorbic acid concentration (CVit C) in the double‐MROB system (1/VMROB(ii) = 0.6502CVit C + 4.5165, and R = 0.9939). The relevant relative standard deviation values of intraday and inter‐day were less than ∼5.55% and ∼6.64%, respectively. Finally, the titration of ascorbic acid in chewable vitamin C tablets was performed by the developed method, the titration results agreed with those via the classic iodometric titration. All the results briefly demonstrated the validity of the double MROB model, in which Vit C was used as a model analyte. The developed method had potential use in quantitative analysis of redox‐active species in biomedical samples.
Enhancing the accuracy, speed, and efficiency of kafirin‐PEO electrospun bio‐nanocomposite pH indicators with red beetroot extract using image processing
Authors: Tavana Fatemeh , Hematian Sourki Abdollah , Golmakani Mohammad‐Taghi
Published: January 2024

Intelligent electrospun pH indicators were produced from bio‐nanocomposite kafirin‐polyethylene oxide (PEO) containing red beetroot extract. The aim was to evaluate the performance and stability of the electrospun pH indicators via image processing. Red beetroot extract was added to a mixture of kafirin and PEO at various concentrations. The mixtures were electrospun, and infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy confirmed the presence of kafirin, PEO, and red beetroot extract in the resulting pH indicator. The results showed that the pH indicators had high stability and reversibility at different temperatures, pHs, and environmental conditions. The results showed that the color of the indicators was significantly reversible after pH changes, with highly desirable reversibility observed at pH values of 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, and 10. The findings proved that the red beetroot extract loaded bio‐nanocomposite pH indicator accompanied by evaluation of color characteristics through image processing technique, can serve as a time‐efficient, accurate tool for detecting and tracking pH changes caused by food spoilage.
Preparing for the ‘next pandemic’: Why we need to escape from our silos
Authors: Correia Tiago , Ricciardi Walter , McKee Martin
Published: January 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic revealed major failings in many countries. We argue that one of the reasons, at global, national, and local levels, was that those involved were working in silos, unable to bring together the many diverse perspectives needed to respond to this complex problem. This is despite a growing recognition of the importance of adopting a Health For All Policies approach. Silo working, and the problems it creates, are not unique to health policy so there are opportunities to learn from those organisations that have tackled this issue.
Sigmoid volvulus in pregnancy: A rare case report
Authors: Pfeiffer Alixandria F. , Clark Reece E. , Sullivan Jana , Rizvi Syed A. A. , Byrne John J. , Boyd Angela R.
Published: January 2024

Synopsis

Sigmoid volvulus in pregnancy is a surgical emergency that requires speedy diagnosis and definitive treatment at an appropriate level of care center as it may provoke preterm labor.
Blockchain‐based food traceability in Apulian marketplace: Improving sustainable agri‐food consumers perception and trust
Authors: Fiore Marco , Frem Michel , Mongiello Marina , Bozzo Francesco , Montemurro Cinzia , Tricarico Giovanni , Petrontino Alessandro
Published: January 2024

Blockchain‐based traceability systems play a crucial role in providing comprehensive product information to consumers and its strategic value for businesses. We explore how traceability builds customer trust by disclosing manufacturing details, product origin, and supply‐chain information. The study gives an overview of the TRACECOOP project and its implementation based on the architecture developed in collaboration with project partners. Further, this study examines Apulia (southern Italy) consumers' willingness‐to‐pay (WTP as price premium) towards this innovative technology regarding additional labeling information. The results reveal an overall positive average WTPs of EUR 0.98 towards the presence of Blockchain Technology/QR code on the labels of five agri‐food products.
TBC1D2B undergoes phase separation and mediates autophagy initiation
Authors: Hoffmann Marina E. , Jacomin Anne‐Claire , Popovic Doris , Kalina Daniel , Covarrubias‐Pinto Adriana , Dikic Ivan
Published: January 2024

Small ubiquitin‐like modifiers from the ATG8 family regulate autophagy initiation and progression in mammalian cells. Their interaction with LC3‐interacting region (LIR) containing proteins promotes cargo sequestration, phagophore assembly, or even fusion between autophagosomes and lysosomes. Previously, we have shown that RabGAP proteins from the TBC family directly bind to LC3/GABARAP proteins. In the present study, we focus on the function of TBC1D2B. We show that TBC1D2B contains a functional canonical LIR motif and acts at an early stage of autophagy by binding to both LC3/GABARAP and ATG12 conjugation complexes. Subsequently, TBC1D2B is degraded by autophagy. TBC1D2B condensates into liquid droplets upon autophagy induction. Our study suggests that phase separation is an underlying mechanism of TBC1D2B‐dependent autophagy induction.
Gastric cancer mesenchymal stem cells promote tumor glycolysis and chemoresistance by regulating B7H3 in gastric cancer cells
Authors: Gao Qiuzhi , Huang Chao , Liu Ting , Yang Fumeng , Chen Zhihong , Sun Li , Zhao Yuanyuan , Wang Mei , Luo Liqi , Zhou Chenglin , Zhu Wei
Published: January 2024

Despite surgical treatment combined with multidrug therapy having made some progress, chemotherapy resistance is the main cause of recurrence and death of gastric cancer (GC). Gastric cancer mesenchymal stem cells (GCMSCs) have been reported to be correlated with the limited efficacy of chemotherapy in GC, but the mechanism of GCMSCs regulating GC resistance needs to be further studied. The gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to explore the glycolysis‐related pathways heterogeneity across different cell subpopulations. Glucose uptake and lactate production assays were used to evaluate the importance of B7H3 expression in GCMSCs‐treated GC cells. The therapeutic efficacy of oxaliplatin (OXA) and paclitaxel (PTX) was determined using CCK‐8 and colony formation assays. Signaling pathways altered by GCMSCs‐CM were revealed by immunoblotting. The expression of TNF‐α in GCMSCs and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) was detected by western blot analysis and qPCR. Our results showed that the OXA and PTX resistance of GC cells were significantly enhanced in the GCMSCs‐CM treated GC cells. Acquired OXA and PTX resistance was characterized by increased cell viability for OXA and PTX, the formation of cell colonies, and decreased levels of cell apoptosis, which were accompanied by reduced levels of cleaved caspase‐3 and Bax expression, and increased levels of Bcl‐2, HK2, MDR1, and B7H3 expression. Blocking TNF‐α in GCMSCs‐CM, B7H3 knockdown or the use of 2‐DG, a key enzyme inhibitor of glycolysis in GC cells suppressed the OXA and PTX resistance of GC cells that had been treated with GCMSCs‐CM. This study shows that GCMSCs‐CM derived TNF‐α could upregulate the expression of B7H3 of GC cells to promote tumor chemoresistance. Our results provide a new basis for the treatment of GC.