bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degrowth
Authors: Lawhon Mary , O'Connor Seb
Published: September 2024

Geographers have recently begun to engage with degrowth scholarship and activism, albeit somewhat tentatively. The history of degrowth is reviewed and how geographers have contributed, could contribute to, and been shaped by debates over the relationship between growth and the environment are examined. Consideration is given to both a narrow version (focused on a critique of economic growth and articulating/advocating for economic models not premised on growth) as well as more capacious versions (focused on articulating/advocating for radical, sometimes arcadian, political economic alternatives). Debates in the field between advocates of ecomodern socialism and degrowth have often been polarizing, but also have usefully pushed conversations in political ecology beyond critique and towards affirmative visions. Many scholars have pointed to potential synergies between degrowth and ideas with longer roots in geography, including postcapitalist and postcolonial alternatives to development. This recognition raises important questions about the politics of knowledge flows, particularly as degrowth (an idea with strong roots in the Global North) travels to southern places. While there are concerns with arguments about the relevance of degrowth as an umbrella term that subsumes various alternatives, the growing interest in degrowth may also spark interest in more longstanding critiques of growth, technology, development, and modernity.
A Bulk versus Nanoscale Hydrogen Storage Paradox Revealed by Material‐System Co‐Design
Authors: Witman Matthew D. , Brooks Kriston P. , Sprik Samuel J. , Wood Brandon C. , Heo Tae Wook , Ray Keith G. , Klebanoff L. E. , Acosta Austin , Stavila Vitalie , Allendorf Mark D.
Published: September 2024

Metal hydrides are serious contenders for materials‐based hydrogen storage to overcome constraints associated with compressed or liquefied H2. Their ultimate performance is usually evaluated using intrinsic material properties without considering a systems design perspective. An illustrative case with startling implications is (LiNH2+2LiH). Using models that simulate the storage system and associated fuel cell of a light‐duty vehicle (LDV), the performance of the bulk hydrides is compared with a nanoscaled version in porous carbon (PC), (LiNH2+2LiH)@(6‐nm PC). Using experimental material properties, the simulations show that (LiNH2+2LiH)@(6‐nm PC) counterintuitively has higher usable gravimetric and volumetric capacities than the bulk counterpart on a system basis despite having lower capacities on a materials‐only basis. Nanoscaling increases the thermal conductivity and lowers the desorption enthalpy, which consequently increases heat management efficiency. In a simulated drive cycle for fuel cell‐powered LDV, the fuel cell is inoperable using bulk (LiNH2+2LiH) as the storage material but completes the drive cycle using the nanoscale material. These results challenge the notion that nanoscaling incurs mass and volume penalties. Instead, the synergistic nanoporous host‐hydride interaction can favorably modulate chemical and heat transfer properties. Moreover, a co‐design approach considering application‐specific tradeoffs is essential to accurately assess a material's potential for real‐world hydrogen storage.
Highly Ordered 2D Open Lattices Through Self‐Assembly of Magnetic Units
Authors: Yang Xinyan , Leng Junqing , Sun Cheng , Keten Sinan
Published: September 2024

Fabrication of architected materials through self‐assembly of units offers many advantages over monolithic solids including recyclability, reconfigurability, self‐healing, and diversity of emergent properties – all prescribed chiefly by the choice of the building blocks. While self‐assembly is prevalent in biosynthesis, it remains challenging to recapitulate it macroscopically. Recent success in the self‐assembly of 2D ordered open magneto‐elastic lattices from centimeter‐long bar units with sticky magnetic ends, showcasing graceful failure at “magnetic bonds” and re‐assembly under extreme loading. However, it is still unclear how this approach can be generalized to design units that preferably form ordered low‐energy structures with desirable mechanical properties such as ductility, auxetics, and impact resistance. Here, diverse ordered 2D lattice structures are predicted as the self‐assembly outcomes from units with 2 (bar), 3 (Y‐shape), and 4 (cross) branches with magnetic ends. The defect formation is significantly reduced by a computational design approach. Tunable mechanical behavior is shown to be achieved by varying unit shapes and magnet orientations. Cross‐shaped units are identified for their promise in auxetic response and penetration resistance with these findings validated through experiments. The work highlights the potential of self‐assembling magnetic architected materials for adaptive structures, impact mitigation, and energy adsorption.
Investigating Static and Dynamic Behaviors in 3D Chiral Mechanical Metamaterials by Disentangled Generative Models
Authors: Park Jeonghoon , Noh Jaebum , Shin Jehyeon , Gu Grace X. , Rho Junsuk
Published: September 2024

Chiral mechanical metamaterials with engineered asymmetric structures have garnered significant interest owing to their potential for manipulating mechanical waves and unconventional mechanical properties. Although several design methodologies have made significant strides in the design and discovery of chiral mechanical metamaterials, 3D designs that incorporate multiple mechanical characteristics remain largely unexplored and the static and dynamic properties of these structures have not received sufficient attention. Here, an innovative approach is introduced for the inverse design of 3D chiral mechanical metamaterials with desired static and dynamic properties, leveraging streamlined shapes to enable a versatile design. By employing conditional generative adversarial networks (c‐GANs), the desired mechanical properties are targeted by focusing on both wave attenuation and stress distribution under compression and shear loading. 3D chiral mechanical metamaterials with additive manufacturing are fabricated to demonstrate the performance of the proposed c‐GAN. Experimental investigations show that the generated structures exhibited a wide range of wave attenuation properties, low stress concentrations, and a variety of stress‐strain curve profiles including nonlinear stiffness, demonstrating their effectiveness in achieving the desired mechanical characteristics. This research offers significant advancements in the on‐demand design capabilities of metamaterials and their applications.
A Subtractive Method to Chemically Pattern Liquid Metal for Stretchable Circuits
Authors: Sumaria Kaushal , Liu Tingyi “Leo”
Published: September 2024

Advancements in biomedical research have spurred the development of stretchable electronic devices. While soft insulators are readily available, soft conductors with metal‐like electrical conductivity are rare. Gallium and its alloys, being nontoxic and intrinsically stretchable, are potentially ideal solutions. However, current additive liquid metal (LM) patterning methods face limitations in achieving high‐throughput, high‐resolution, and high‐density LM wiring. Here, a subtractive LM patterning method is developed to meet all these requirements simultaneously. The innovative method involves parallel filling a single continuous microfluidic mesh network with LM that short‐circuits all the pins and pads of a circuit, followed by parallel cutting of the unwanted short‐circuited interconnections using hydrochloric acid (HCl) vapor. Cutting locations are pre‐defined by designing narrower intersecting channels, leveraging capillary force for precise filling and cutting. The process is characterized using a multidimensional parametric study with varying LM line widths and HCl concentrations, and in situ impedance measurements to assess insulation performance. To showcase its high‐throughput capabilities, a mock circuit is used to successfully generate complex LM interconnects that connected hundreds of electrical pads. Finally, a stretchable LM circuit with a micro‐LED array is fabricated to demonstrate the practical application of this technology for massively parallel wiring in stretchable electronics.
TMSOTf‐Mediated Aminocyclization/[1,3]‐Sulfonyl Migration of N‐Homopropargyl Hydroxylamines for the Stereoselective Synthesis of 3‐Sulfonyl Cyclic Nitrones
Authors: Gharpure Santosh J. , Hajam Showkat A. , Vishwakarma Dharmendra S.
Published: September 2024

TMSOTf‐mediated 5‐endo‐dig aminocyclization followed by N‐ to C‐[1,3]‐sulfonyl migration on N‐homopropargyl hydroxylamines gave diastereoselective access to trisubstituted 3‐sulfonyl cyclic nitrone (3‐sulfonyl pyrroline N‐oxide) derivatives. The synthetic utility of the 3‐sulfonyl cyclic nitrone products was demonstrated through the diastereoselective synthesis of the sulfonyl‐substituted nonaromatic N‐heterocycles such as N‐hydroxypyrrolidine, pyrrolidine‐fused isoxazoline, and isoxazolidine derivatives.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Deaminative Alkylation for the Synthesis of Chroman‐4‐One Derivatives via EDA Complexes
Authors: Yan Jinke , Leng Yuting , Wu Yangjie
Published: September 2024

A visible‐light‐mediated synthesis of 3‐alkyl‐ substituted chroman‐4‐one derivatives via deaminative alkylation of amino acid derived Katritzky salts and tandem cyclization with o‐(allyloxy)arylaldehydes has been developed. This approach exhibits functional‐group compatibility with 31 examples and affords the desired products in yields of 16–88%. Mechanistic research results suggest that the formation of EDA complexes between the Katritzky salts and a base is the main reason for initiating the reaction.
Exploring Sulphonated Calix[n]arenes as Catalysts in Organic Reactions
Authors: Sachdeva Garima , Rathi Komal , Rawat Varun , Verma Ved Prakash
Published: September 2024

Catalysis plays a crucial role in modern chemistry, with macrocyclic compounds like calixarenes serving as key players in organic transformations through supramolecular chemistry. These macrocycles, synthesized from phenol and formaldehyde condensation, exhibit a variety of conformations, such as cone and partial‐cone, due to their flexible structures. Their effectiveness as catalysts arises from their lipophilic cavities and the ease of functionalization on both the upper and lower rims. Water‐soluble calixarenes, in particular, have gained attention for their ability to interact with hydrophobic cavities, facilitating molecular recognition in aqueous environments. A landmark achievement in this field was Shinkai's synthesis of water‐soluble calix[4]arene in 1984, which involved sulphonation using tert‐butyl groups, resulting in compounds known for their low toxicity and encapsulation capabilities. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in sulphonated calixarenes as catalysts, emphasizing their diverse applications and potential for future development. Key catalytic reactions and their substrate scopes are discussed, along with future perspectives on how these compounds can further revolutionize catalytic processes.
Stereoselective Synthesis of AB‐5,15‐Porphyrinquinone Platinum(II) Complexes
Authors: Inoue Ryo , Yamada Iori , Yokoyama Momoka , Morisaki Yasuhiro
Published: September 2024

5,15‐Porphyrinquinone is a non‐aromatic and electron‐deficient porphyrinoid that acts as an important framework for the synthesis of porphyrinoid derivatives. Generally, meso‐functionalized A2‐porphyrinquinone is synthesized via the oxidation of A2‐porphyrin. Herein, we present the stereoselective synthesis of AB‐porphyrinquinone Pt(II) complexes using the corresponding dipyrrinato‐Pt complexes and bisformyldipyrrins. The reaction involves cyclization and oxidative aromatization induced by the Pt template, followed by oxidation using a mild MnO2 oxidant.
The plasma miRNAome in ADNI: Signatures to aid the detection of at‐risk individuals
Authors: Krüger Dennis M. , Pena‐Centeno Tonatiuh , Liu Shiwei , Park Tamina , Kaurani Lalit , Pradhan Ranjit , Huang Yen‐Ning , Risacher Shannon L. , Burkhardt Susanne , Schütz Anna‐Lena , Wan Yang , Shaw Leslie M. , Brodsky Alexander S. , DeStefano Anita L. , Lin Honghuang , Schroeder Robert , Krunic Andre , Hempel Nina , Sananbenesi Farahnaz , Blusztajn Jan Krzysztof , Saykin Andrew J. , Delalle Ivana , Nho Kwangsik , Fischer Andre ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

MicroRNAs are short non‐coding RNAs that control proteostasis at the systems level and are emerging as potential prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

We performed small RNA sequencing on plasma samples from 847 Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) participants.

RESULTS

We identified microRNA signatures that correlate with AD diagnoses and help predict the conversion from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to AD.

DISCUSSION

Our data demonstrate that plasma microRNA signatures can be used to not only diagnose MCI, but also, critically, predict the conversion from MCI to AD. Moreover, combined with neuropsychological testing, plasma microRNAome evaluation helps predict MCI to AD conversion. These findings are of considerable public interest because they provide a path toward reducing indiscriminate utilization of costly and invasive testing by defining the at‐risk segment of the aging population.

Highlights

We provide the first analysis of the plasma microRNAome for the ADNI study.

The levels of several microRNAs can be used as biomarkers for the prediction of conversion from MCI to AD.

Adding the evaluation of plasma microRNA levels to neuropsychological testing in a clinical setting increases the accuracy of MCI to AD conversion prediction.
Tuning Co‐Operative Energy Transfer in Copper(I) Complexes Using Two‐Photon Absorbing Diimine‐Based Ligand Sensitizers
Authors: Beaucage Noémie , Singh Zujhar , Bourdon Jérémie , Collins Shawn K.
Published: September 2024

Photocatalysis mediated by low energy light wavelengths has potential to enable safer, sustainable synthetic methods. A phenanthroline‐derived ligand bathocupSani, with a large two‐photon absorption (TPA) cross section was used to construct a heteroleptic complex [Cu(bathocupSani)(DPEPhos)]BF4 and a homoleptic complex [Cu(bathocupSani)2]BF4. The ligand and the respective homoleptic complex with copper exhibit two‐photon upconversion with an anti‐Stokes shift of 1.2 eV using red light. The complex [Cu(bathocupSani)2]BF4 promoted energy transfer photocatalysis enabling oxidative dimerization of benzylic amines, sulfide oxidation, phosphine oxidation, boronic acid oxidation and atom‐transfer radical addition.
Circularly Polarized Lasing from Helical Superstructures of Chiral Organic Molecules
Authors: Ren Shizhe , Liu Zheng‐Fei , Li Penghao , Liu Haidi , Lu Miaosen , Wang Kang , Yao Jiannian , Dong Haiyun , Yang Qing‐Zheng , Zhao Yong Sheng
Published: September 2024

Chiral supramolecular aggregates have the potential to explore circularly polarized lasing with large dissymmetry factors. However, the controllable assembly of chiral superstructures towards deterministic circularly polarized laser emission remains elusive. Here, we design a pair of chiral organic molecules capable of stacking into a pair of definite helical superstructures in microcrystals, which enables circularly polarized lasing with deterministic chirality and high dissymmetry factors. The microcrystals function as optical cavities and gain media simultaneously for laser oscillations, while the supramolecular helices endow the laser emission with strong and opposite chirality. As a result, the microcrystals of two enantiomers allow for circularly polarized laser emission with opposite chirality and high dissymmetry factors up to ~1.0. This work demonstrates the chiral supramolecular assemblies as an excellent platform for high‐performance circularly polarized lasers.
An Ultrasound‐Activated Supramolecular Modulator Enhancing Autophagy to Prevent Ventricular Arrhythmias Post‐Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Pang Yida , Li Qian , Wang Jiale , Wang Songyun , Sharma Amit , Xu Yuling , Hu Haoyuan , Li Junrong , Liu Shuang , Sun Yao
Published: September 2024

Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) triggered by myocardial infarction (MI) are the leading cause of sudden cardiac mortality worldwide. Current therapeutic strategies for managing MI‐induced VAs, such as left stellate ganglion resection and ablation, are suboptimal, highlighting the need to explore safer and more effective intervention strategies. Herein, we rationally designed two supramolecular sonosensitizers RuA and RuB, engineered through acceptor modification to generate moderate reactive oxygen species (ROS) to modulate VAs. Both RuA and RuB demonstrated high ultrasound (US)‐activated ROS production efficiency, with singlet oxygen (1O2) quantum yield (ΦΔ) of 0.70 and 0.88, respectively, surpassing ligand IR1105 and the conventional sonosensitizer ICG (ΦΔ=0.40). In vitro, RuB, at a modest concentration and under US intensity notably boosts pro‐survival autophagy in microglia BV2 cell. To improve in vivo stability and biocompatibility, RuB was further encapsulated into DSPE‐PEG5000 to prepare RuB nanoparticles (RuB NPs). In vivo studies after microinjection of RuB NPs into the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and subsequent US exposure, demonstrated that RuB NPs‐mediated US modulation effectively suppresses sympathetic nervous activity (SNA) and inflammatory responses, thereby preventing VAs. Importantly, no tissue injury was observed post RuB NPs‐mediated US modulation. This work pioneers the design of long‐wave emission supramolecular sonosensitizers, offering new insights into regulating cardiovascular diseases.
Revealing and Inhibiting the Facet‐related Ion Migration for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Qu Shujie , Huang Hao , Wang Jinhui , Cui Peng , Li Yiyi , Wang Min , Li Liang , Yang Fu , Sun Changxu , Zhang Qiang , Zhu Pengkun , Wang Yi , Li Meicheng
Published: September 2024

Ion migration is a major issue hindering the long‐term stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). As an intrinsic characteristic of metal halide perovskite materials, ion migration is closely related to the atomic arrangement and coordination, which are the basic characteristic differences among various facets. Herein, we report the facet‐related ion migration, and then achieve the inhibition of ion migration in perovskite through finely modulating the facet orientation. We show that the (100) facet is substantially more vulnerable to cationic migration than the (111) facet. The main reason for this difference in migration is that the cationic migration route in the (111) facet deviates from that in the (100) facet, which increases the active migration energy and weakens the contribution from the electric field during operation. We prepare a (111)‐dominated perovskite film by incorporating a facile and green addition of water (H2O) into the antisolvent, further achieving a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 26.0 % (25.4 % certification) on regular planar PSCs and 25.8 % on inverted PSCs. Moreover, the unencapsulated PSCs can maintain 95 % of their initial PCE after 3500‐hours operation under simulated AM1.5 illumination at the maximum power point.
Acene‐Integrated Buckybowls with Near‐Infrared II Absorption and over 90 % Photothermal Conversion Efficiency
Authors: Liu Xinyue , Chen Binjie , Wang Min , Gu Xinggui , Zhang Lei
Published: September 2024

Tetracene and pentacene are large, promising building blocks for construction of complex molecular nanocarbons due to their extraordinary photophysical and electronic properties. Herein, two acene‐integrated buckybowls, composed of two rows of tetracenes and pentacenes fused through s‐indacene unit at the zigzag edges, have been synthesized and characterized. Compared to parent tetracene and pentacene, the buckybowls are extremely stable and show much smaller electrochemical band gaps. Kinetic studies gave the bowl‐to‐bowl inversion barriers of 11.7 and 13.3 kcal mol−1. Subsequent investigations on magnetic ring currents revealed two local diatropic currents at two rows of acenes and one paratropic current at the s‐indacene unit, respectively. Notably, both buckybowls show a broad absorption that reaches into near‐infrared II region, and a high photothermal conversion efficiency (>90 %) was achieved when exposed to near‐infrared 1064 nm laser photo‐irradiation. This study highlights the unusual nature of merging the intrinsic properties of acenes with the inherent properties of buckybowls and showcases a potential avenue for acene utilization for the design of novel complex nanocarbons with a broad range of applications.
Integrating Multiple Redox‐Active Units into Conductive Covalent Organic Frameworks for High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ke Si‐Wen , Li Wei , Gao Lei , Su Jian , Luo Rengan , Yuan Shuai , He Ping , Zuo Jing‐Lin
Published: September 2024

The rational design of porous covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with high conductivity and reversible redox activity is the key to improving their performance in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Herein, we report a series of COFs (FPDC‐TPA‐COF, FPDC‐TPB‐COF, and FPDC‐TPT‐COF) based on an organosulfur linker, (trioxocyclohexane‐triylidene)tris(dithiole‐diylylidene))hexabenzaldehyde (FPDC). These COFs feature two‐dimensional crystalline structures, high porosity, good conductivity, and densely packed redox‐active sites, making them suitable for energy storage devices. Among them, FPDC‐TPT‐COF demonstrates a remarkably high specific capacity of 420 mAh g−1 (0.2 A g−1), excellent cycling stability (~87 % capacity retention after 3000 cycles, 1.0 A g−1) and high rate performance (339 mAh g−1 at 2.0 A g−1) as an anode for SIBs, surpassing most reported COF‐based electrodes. The superior performance is attributed to the dithiole moieties enhancing the conductivity and the presence of redox‐active carbonyl, imine, and triazine sites facilitating Na storage. Furthermore, the sodiation mechanism was elucidated through in situ experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This work highlights the advantages of integrating multiple functional groups into redox‐active COFs for the rational design of efficient and stable SIBs.
Opening the Hysteresis Loop in Ferromagnetic Fe3GeTe2 Nanosheets Through Functionalization with TCNQ Molecules
Authors: Sasi Kumar Govind , Ruiz Alberto M. , Garcia‐Oliver Jaime , Xin Yan , Baldoví José J. , Shatruk Michael
Published: September 2024

Ferromagnetic metal Fe3GeTe2 (FGT), whose structure exhibits weak van‐der‐Waals interactions between 5‐atom thick layers, was subjected to liquid‐phase exfoliation (LPE) in N‐methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) to yield a suspension of nanosheets that were separated into several fractions by successive centrifugation at different speeds. Electron microscopy confirmed successful exfoliation of bulk FGT to nanosheets as thin as 6 nm. The ferromagnetic ordering temperature for the nanosheets gradually decreased with the increase in the centrifugation speed used to isolate the 2D material. These nanosheets were resuspended in NMP and treated with an organic acceptor, 7,7,8,8‐tetracyano‐quinodimethane (TCNQ), which led to precipitation of FGT‐TCNQ composite. The formation of the composite material is accompanied by charge transfer from the FGT nanosheets to TCNQ molecules, generating TCNQ⋅− radical anions, as revealed by experimental vibrational spectra and supported by first principles calculations. Remarkably, a substantial increase in magnetic anisotropy was observed, as manifested by the increase in the coercive field from nearly zero in bulk FGT to 1.0 kOe in the exfoliated nanosheets and then to 5.4 kOe in the FGT‐TCNQ composite. The dramatic increase in coercivity of the composite suggests that functionalization with redox‐active molecules provides an appealing pathway to enhancing magnetic properties of 2D materials.
Direct Synthesis of Perovskite Quantum Dot Photoresist for Direct Photolithography
Authors: Zhou Xiaochen , Gao Zhiyuan , Shi Jianbing , Li Tianhe , Wei Shunsheng , Huang Peng , Zhang Pingping , Yang Gaoling
Published: September 2024

Perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) photoresists are promising building blocks for photolithographically patterned devices. However, their complex synthesis and combination processes limit their optical properties and potential patterning applications. Here, we present an exceptionally simple strategy for the synthesis of PQDs photoresist. Unlike traditional approaches that involve centrifugation, separation, and combination processes, our direct synthesis technique using polymerizable acrylic monomer as solvent to fabricate PQDs photoresists without complex post‐synthesis process. We demonstrate that the change in solubility of the precursors is the main reason for the formation of PQDs in the polymerizable monomer. By direct photolithography, colorful PQD patterns with high photoluminescence quantum yields and high thickness are successfully demonstrated. This work opens a new avenue for the direct synthesis of PQDs photoresist, expanding their applications in various integrated applications, such as photonic, energy harvesting, and optoelectronic devices.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene–Based Catalysts for Glycerol Valorisation: Current State and Perspectives
Authors: Cárdenas‐Acero Alexander , Blanco Carolina , Baquero Edwin A.
Published: September 2024

N‐Heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) are molecules with exceptional catalytic properties in a wide range of reactions. Recently, there has been a growing interest in using them as catalysts for biomass conversion. In this review, we examine the current state of glycerol valorisation (GV) using several catalytic systems, including metallic complexes bearing NHCs as ligands, polymeric building blocks and organocatalysts. The study covers literature published in the last 15 years, detailing the catalyst scope, reaction conditions and products of GV. This analysis emphasises the importance of varying the steric and electronic properties of NHCs within the reviewed catalytic systems. Furthermore, a critical evaluation of the proposed mechanistic pathways complements these results. A comprehensive understanding of the challenges of using such catalytic systems will emerge by compiling literature on the use of NHCs for the studied reactions. Additionally, this will promote new opportunities for further research in both academic and industrial fields.
An imidazole‐copper(I) metallacycle complex exhibiting thermochromic fluorescence
Authors: Yu Zongsu , Wu Dayu
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we firstly report the synthesis and structural characterization of a discrete coordination metallacycle complex, [CuI (bipy)]2 (1). The x‐ray diffraction structure, temperature‐dependent electronic absorption, and photoluminescence spectra have been investigated. The solid‐state fluorescence at variable temperatures shows that complex 1 exhibits an obvious thermochromic fluorescence. At low temperature, the dual fluorescence with peaks at 590 and 694 nm was observed. The emission color significantly changes from red at 77 K to yellow at 200 K and blue‐green at 330 K. The thermochromic fluorescent molecular materials show great potential as temperature sensing.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Anticancer Screening of Ester‐Based Thiazole Derivatives
Authors: Musa Mustapha , Bello Muhammadu , Agwamba Ernest C.
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the potential of five compounds as novel anticancer agents. We examined their efficacy, mechanisms of action, and impact on various cancer cell lines, through a comprehensive set of experiments. Notably, compound 3e demonstrated superior activity compared to the positive control cisplatin, with a GI50 value of 6.3±0.7 μM against the breast cancer cell line (MCF‐7). Compound 3b also displayed remarkable growth inhibition, yielding GI50 values of 8.7±0.2 μM (MCF‐7) and 8.9±0.5 μM against the colon cancer cell line (HCT‐116). Cell count experiments further confirmed the potent inhibitory effects of compounds 3e, 3b, and 3c on MCF‐7 and HCT‐116 cell growth. Compound 3e demonstrated a reduction of 55–60 % at GI50 and complete inhibition (100 %) at 2x GI50. Compound 3b exhibited 50–55 % reduction (GI50) and 90–95 % inhibition (2x GI50) in HCT‐116 cells. Compound 3c displayed 75–80 % inhibition (2x GI50) and 35–40 % inhibition (GI50) in HCT‐116 cells. In‐depth mechanistic investigations unveiled valuable insights into the mode of action of compound 3e. The cell‐cycle assay demonstrated G2/M phase arrest, DNA damage, and caspase‐mediated apoptosis in both MCF‐7 and HCT‐116 cells. Caspase activation indicated a significant increase in apoptosis following exposure to compound 3e. Furthermore, compound 3e induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, influencing HCT‐116 and MCF‐7 cells differently. Elevated ROS production in HCT‐116 cells and distinct effects in MCF‐7 cells contribute to a deeper understanding of the cytotoxic mechanisms of compound 3e. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of the investigated compounds, particularly compound 3e, as effective inducers of apoptosis in cancer cells. Mechanistic insights into cell cycle arrest, caspase‐mediated apoptosis, and ROS modulation provide a comprehensive understanding of their cytotoxic effects. This study offers significant contribution to the development of promising anticancer agents and their therapeutic applications.
One New Quinazoline‐Containing Diketopiperazine Isolated from the Marine‐Sponge‐Derived Fungus Penicillium sp. SCSIO41043
Authors: Cao Qinlin , Pang Xiaoyan , Chen Zhiyun , Wang Junfeng , Zhou Xuefeng , Yang Bin , Liu Yonghong
Published: September 2024

One new quinazoline‐containing diketopiperazine (1), along with 24 known compounds including nine alkaloids (2–9, and 25), thirteen lactones (10–22), aspterric acid (23), and catechol (24), were isolated from the marine sponge‐derived Penicillium sp. SCSIO41043. Their planar structures were unequivocally elucidated by spectroscopic analysis. The absolute configuration of 1 was determined by a comparison of reported and experimental electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. Compound 16 was found to notably inhibit the growth of five pathogenic bacteria and fungi with MIC values ranging from 0.5–16.0 μg/mL. Compounds 7, 17, 20, and 22 demonstrated moderate activity against Micrococcus luteus with MIC values ranging from 35.6 to 71.1 μg/mL. Moreover, 1–3 displayed different degrees of antioxidant activity with EC50 values of 0.98, 0.60, 0.46 mg/mL, respectively.
Cholecystocolonic fistula secondary to ascending colon diverticular disease: A case report
Authors: Bhojani Fatima , Ahmed Memon Wasim , Ahmad Muhammad Nadeem , Muhammad Zohaib Uddin Mallick , Khan Sibgha , Nadeem Naila , Khan Faheemullah , Zafar Uffan
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Cholecystocolonic fistula occurring as a complication of colonic diverticular disease is a rarely encountered clinical entity in which the patient may remain asymptomatic or present with vague abdominal or systemic symptoms. Imaging studies are usually not very reliable or effective in detecting direct communication between gallbladder and colon. However, indirect signs such as pneumobilia, gallstones, gallbladder adherent to colon and colonic diverticulosis may help reach the diagnosis. Treatment of cholecystocolonic fistula in symptomatic patients is usually surgical. However, in asymptomatic patients or patients with risk factors and comorbidities, non‐surgical options such as conservative management or biliary stenting can be considered.
Oxidative Alkylarylation of N‐Aryl Bicyclobutyl Amides with C(sp3)–H Feedstocks via C(sp3)–H/C(sp2)–H Functionalization
Authors: Yuan Jing , Zhou Jiao , Xia Peng‐Fei , Liu Yu , Tang Ke‐Wen , Fan Jian‐Hong
Published: September 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The difunctionalization of bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes is an under‐explored transformation that accesses to moieties that are otherwise difficult to prepare. Herein, a new oxidative radical alkylarylation of N‐aryl bicyclobutyl amides with C(sp3)−H feedstocks is achieved in an atom‐economic and photocatalyst‐ and light‐free manner. This protocol follows a sequential C(sp3)–H/C(sp2)–H functionalization, providing an efficient route for diversity‐oriented synthesis of functionalized 3‐spirocyclobutyl oxindoles. In particular, a wide range of C(sp3)−H feedstocks, including ether, alcohol, amine, thioether, polychlorinated methane, silane, acetone, acetonitrile, toluene, and alkane are all suitable for the C(sp3)−H functionalization, demonstrating the broad applicability of this transformation.
HN1 expression contributes to mitotic fidelity through Aurora A‐PLK1‐Eg5 axis
Authors: Özduman Gülseren , Şimşek Faruk , Javed Aadil , Korkmaz Kemal Sami
Published: September 2024

Hematological and neurological expressed 1 (HN1) is homolog of Jupiter protein from Drosophila melanogaster where it functions as a microtubule‐associated protein. However, in mammalian cells, HN1 is associated partially with y‐tubulin in centrosomes, Stathmin for stabilizing microtubules, and Cdh1 for regulating Cyclin B1 for cell cycle regulation. Moreover, HN1 overexpression leads to early mitotic exit as well. Other molecular functions and interactions of HN1 are not clear yet. Here, based on our previous analysis where HN1 was shown to cluster supernumerary centrosomes and maintain mitotic spindle assembly, we further investigated the role of HN1 in centrosome maintenance and mitotic fidelity in PC‐3 prostate and MDA‐MB231 mammary cancer cell lines. The maturation‐associated roles of HN1 during cell division by examining the AuroraA‐PLK1 axis involving a plus end kinesin, Eg5 as well as pericentriolar matrix protein (PCM1) as components of centrosomes were established. We found that HN1 co‐localized to centrioles with Eg5 and Aurora A to suppress aberrant spindle formation to ensure the fidelity of centriole/centrosome duplication when overexpressed. Consistently, depleting the HN1 expression using siRNA or shRNA resulted in an increased number of dysregulated mitotic spindle structures, where Aurora A as well as PLK1 co‐localizations with Eg5 and PCM1 were disrupted. Further, the PLK1 and Aurora A kinase's phosphorylations also decreased, confirming the hypothesis that the cells struggle in mitotic progression, display nuclear and cytokinetic abnormalities with supernumerary but immature mononucleated centrosomes. In summary, we described the role of HN1 in centrosome nucleation/maturation in PLK1‐Eg5 axis and concomitant mitotic spindle formation in human cells.
Invariance of Mitochondria and Synapses in the Primary Visual Cortex of Mammals Provides Insight Into Energetics and Function
Authors: Karl Molly T. , Kim Young Do , Rajendran Kavita , Manger Paul R. , Sherwood Chet C.
Published: September 2024

The cerebral cortex accounts for substantial energy expenditure, primarily driven by the metabolic demands of synaptic signaling. Mitochondria, the organelles responsible for generating cellular energy, play a crucial role in this process. We investigated ultrastructural characteristics of the primary visual cortex in 18 phylogenetically diverse mammals, spanning a broad range of brain sizes from mouse to elephant. Our findings reveal remarkable uniformity in synapse density, postsynaptic density (PSD) length, and mitochondria density, indicating functional and metabolic constraints that maintain these fundamental features. Notably, we observed an average of 1.9 mitochondria per synapse across mammalian species. When considered together with the trend of decreasing neuron density with larger brain size, we find that brain enlargement in mammals is characterized by increasing proportions of synapses and mitochondria per cortical neuron. These results shed light on the adaptive mechanisms and metabolic dynamics that govern cortical ultrastructure across mammals.
Optimized Tungsten Disulfide via Pyrolytic Deposition for Improved Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Yiting , Zhao Xinran , Cao Ruirui , Yang Jun
Published: September 2024

The selection and optimization of cathode materials are crucial for enhancing the performance of aqueous zinc‐ion batteries. In this work, different active materials were created by combining Sulfur powder and polydopamine in four different mass ratios. The novel N‐doped carbon/WS2 is obtained. Thanks to the optimization of the dopamine‐carrying tungsten ion precursor and Sulfur powder (1 : 2, 1 : 4, 1 : 6 and 1 : 8), the four samples exhibited different morphology. The N−C/WS2‐6‐based zinc ion batteries with the highest specific capacity, 120.0 mAh/g in the first discharge at 2.0 A/g, and 78.0 mAh/g after 2500 cycles, with a capacity retention of 65 %, had a relatively good overall performance, according to the results. The reaction kinetics characteristics of the N−C/WS2‐6 cathode reveal that diffusion has a significant impact on the processes in the aqueous zinc ionic material N−C/WS2‐6.
Alkalized MQDs/Bi2S3 Porous Structure for Efficient Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Zhang Shijun , Zhou Jun , You Xinjun , Mathivanan Krishnamurthy , Gou Chunqian , Gong Lei , Li Lingling , Jia Qinwei
Published: September 2024

Finding effective and specific catalytic materials for the transformation of carbon dioxide into fuel is indisputably a significant challenge. In this study, 3D porous sphere structure MXene quantum dot/Bi2S3 (MBS) composites were prepared using electrostatic self‐assemblage of protonated Bismuth sulphide nanoparticles (Bi2S3 NSs) with Ti3C2(OH)2 QDs (MQDs‐OH). The optimized MBS material demonstrates an excellent narrow band gap (Eg=1.24 V (vs. NHE)) and high selectivity and efficiency in catalyzing CH3OH, delivering impressive yields of up to 694.7 μmol/g. This study may lead to a new approach to the development of multidimensional photocatalysts for CH3OH production by adsorption of atmospheric CO2.
A Brief Review of Perovskite Quantum Dot Solar Cells: Synthesis, Property and Defect Passivation
Authors: Yang Zifan , Liu Yueli , Chen Wen
Published: September 2024

Perovskite quantum dot solar cells (PQDSCs), as the promising candidate for the next generation of solar cell, have garnered the significant attention over the past decades. However, the performance and stability of PQDSCs are highly dependent on the properties of interfaces between the perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) and the other layers in the device. This work provides a brief overview of PQDSCs, including the synthesis of PQDs, the characteristics and preparation methods of PQDs, the photoelectric properties as the light absorption layer and optimization methods for PQDSCs with high efficiency. Future directions and potential applications are also highlighted.
Biomarkers to predict and diagnose pulmonary complications in children post haematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Walker Hannah , Haeusler Gabrielle M , Cole Theresa , Neeland Melanie , Hanna Diane , Shanthikumar Shivanthan
Published: September 2024

Objectives. Haematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) is a cellular therapy for a group of high‐risk children with cancer, immunodeficiency and metabolic disorders. Whilst curative for a child's underlying condition, HCT has significant risks associated, including lung injury. These complications are associated with increased post HCT mortality and require improved methods of risk stratification, diagnosis and treatment. Methods. Biomarkers measured in bronchoalveolar fluid and peripheral blood have been identified for both acute and chronic lung injury post HCT.This review evaluates the current research available investigating the use of these biomarkers to improve clinical care, with a focus on the paediatric cohort. Results. Elevated levels of cytokines such as IL‐6, IL‐8, G‐CSF and TNF were identified as potential predictive biomarkers for the development of post HCT lung disease. The pulmonary microbiome was found to have strong potential as a biomarker pre and post HCT for the development of pulmonary complications. General limitations of the studies identified were study design, retrospective or single centre and not exclusively performed in the paediatric population. Conclusion. To translate biomarker discovery into clinical implementation further research is required, utilising larger cohorts of children in prospective trials to validate these biomarkers and determine how they can be translated into better outcomes for children post HCT.
Accurately estimating correlations between demographic parameters: A comment on Deane et al. (2023)
Authors: Riecke Thomas V. , Gibson Dan , Sedinger James S.
Published: September 2024

Estimating correlations among demographic parameters is an important method in population ecology. A recent paper by Deane et al. (Ecology and Evolution13:e9847, 2023) attempted to explore the effects of different priors for covariance matrices on inference when using mark‐recovery data. Unfortunately, Deane et al. (2023) made a mistake when parameterizing some of their models. Rather than exploring the effects of different priors, they examined the effects of the use of incorrect equations on inference. In this manuscript, we clearly describe the mistake in Deane et al. (2023). We then demonstrate the use of an alternative and appropriate method and reach different conclusions regarding the effects of priors on inference. Consistent with other recent literature, informative inverse Wishart priors can lead to flawed inference, while vague priors on covariance matrix components have little impact when sample sizes are adequate.
Nitrogen fixation and fertilization have similar effects on biomass allocation in nitrogen‐fixing plants
Authors: Menge Duncan N. L. , Wolf Amelia A. , Funk Jennifer L. , Perakis Steven S. , Carreras Pereira K. A.
Published: September 2024

Plants adjust their allocation to different organs based on nutrient supply. In some plant species, symbioses with nitrogen‐fixing bacteria that live in root nodules provide an alternate pathway for nitrogen acquisition. Does access to nitrogen‐fixing bacteria modify plants' biomass allocation? We hypothesized that access to nitrogen‐fixing bacteria would have the same effect on allocation to aboveground versus belowground tissues as access to plentiful soil nitrogen. To test this hypothesis and related hypotheses about allocation to stems versus leaves and roots versus nodules, we conducted experiments with 15 species of nitrogen‐fixing plants in two separate greenhouses. In each, we grew seedlings with and without access to symbiotic bacteria across a wide gradient of soil nitrogen supply. As is common, uninoculated plants allocated relatively less biomass belowground when they had more soil nitrogen. As we hypothesized, nitrogen fixation had a similar effect as the highest level of fertilization on allocation aboveground versus belowground. Both nitrogen fixation and high fertilization led to ~10% less biomass allocated belowground (~10% more aboveground) than the uninoculated, lowest fertilization treatment. Fertilization reduced allocation to nodules relative to roots. The responses for allocation of aboveground tissues to leaves versus stems were not as consistent across greenhouses or species as the other allocation trends, though more nitrogen fixation consistently led to relatively more allocation to leaves when soil nitrogen supply was low. Synthesis: Our results suggest that symbiotic nitrogen fixation causes seedlings to allocate relatively less biomass belowground, with potential implications for competition and carbon storage in early forest development.
New insights on the phylogeny, evolutionary history, and ecological adaptation mechanism in cycle‐cup oaks based on chloroplast genomes
Authors: Li Yu , Zheng Si‐Si , Wang Tian‐Rui , Liu Mei‐Hua , Kozlowski Gregor , Yi Li‐Ta , Song Yi‐Gang
Published: September 2024

Cycle‐cup oaks (Quercus section Cyclobalanopsis) are one of the principal components of forests in the tropical and subtropical climates of East and Southeast Asia. They have experienced relatively recent increases in the diversification rate, driven by changing climates and the Himalayan orogeny. However, the evolutionary history and adaptive mechanisms at the chloroplast genome level in cycle‐cup oaks remain largely unknown. Therefore, we studied this problem by conducting chloroplast genomics on 50 of the ca. 90 species. Comparative genomics and other analyses showed that Quercus section Cyclobalanopsis had a highly conserved chloroplast genome structure. Highly divergent regions, such as the ndhF and ycf1 gene regions and the petN—psbM and rpoB—trnC‐GCA intergenic spacer regions, provided potential molecular markers for subsequent analysis. The chloroplast phylogenomic tree indicated that Quercus section Cyclobalanopsis was not monophyletic, which mixed with the other two sections of subgenus Cerris. The reconstruction of ancestral aera inferred that Palaeotropics was the most likely ancestral range of Quercus section Cyclobalanopsis, and then dispersed to Sino‐Japan and Sino‐Himalaya. Positive selection analysis showed that the photosystem genes had the lowest ω values among the seven functional gene groups. And nine protein‐coding genes containing sites for positive selection: ndhA, ndhD, ndhF, ndhH, rbcL, rpl32, accD, ycf1, and ycf2. This series of analyses together revealed the phylogeny, evolutionary history, and ecological adaptation mechanism of the chloroplast genome of Quercus section Cyclobalanopsis in the long river of earth history. These chloroplast genome data provide valuable information for deep insights into phylogenetic relationships and intraspecific diversity in Quercus.
Eco‐efficiency improvement strategies for disinfectants
Authors: de Moura Italo Emmanoel Mesquita Oliveira , da Silva Elaine Aparecida
Published: September 2024

Disinfectants are essential products for reducing health risks, but they also have significant environmental impacts. This study assessed the Eco‐efficiency of disinfectants based on the NBR ISO 14045:2014. Primary data were collected from Brazilian producers, while secondary data were obtained from patents and the Ecoinvent database. The system boundaries encompassed cradle‐to‐consumer use. The selling price was adopted as the product system value indicator (economic analysis). Raw materials production had the greatest impact on the environmental performance of disinfectants A (Antibacterial, surfactant and preservative) and C (Antibacterial, surfactant and opacifier). Disinfectant B, in addition to raw materials production (Antibacterial, opacifier and surfactant), also experienced significant impacts from consumer transport. These critical processes represent more than 60% of the overall impacts in both categories. The Eco‐efficiency matrix (profile) related environmental and economic indicators. All disinfectants occupied quadrants three or four, indicating high impact on the environmental categories. Disinfectant C had the highest Eco‐efficiency while disinfectant B had the lowest, mainly due to its product system value. Sensitivity analysis indicated environmentally viable changes in the products' composition, such as replacing the antibacterial, surfactant, preservative, and opacifier. Energy and water consumption did not significantly impact the assessed products.