bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topographic Scanning Electronic Microscopy Reveals the 3D Surface Structure of Materials
Authors: Sun Wen , Xu Yichen , Zhou Ying , Zeng Zhihan , Wang Lei , Ouyang Jianyong
Published: December 2024

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is a very popular technology to analyze the surface morphology of various materials in both academia and industry. Its principle is the detection of secondary electron emission and electron scattering interactions between the electron beam and the sample surface. It requires the deposition of a thin metal film like Au on non‐conductive samples to prevent charge accumulation. However, due to the discontinuity of the Au film along the vertical direction of a sample, the SEM images cannot provide information along the vertical direction. Additionally, the gold films have grains of 10–12 nm in diameter, which can limit the resolution of the SEM images. Here, topographic SEM is reported by coating poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS, an intrinsically conductive polymer) onto samples instead of metal deposition. High‐quality features along both the horizontal and vertical directions can be observed on the SEM images because PEDOT:PSS can form a continuous film along both directions. Furthermore, due to the featureless morphology of the PEDOT:PSS films, the resolution of SEM images is significantly higher than that with gold deposition. The application of topographical SEM in the characterization of various materials, including patterned semiconductors, nanostructured materials, energy materials, biomaterials, etc is demonstrated.
Another Way to Realize LiMn2O4 as a Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Du Jingzhen , Sun Zewen , Peng Bohao , Xu Xuming , Fu Lijun , Chen Yuhui , Liu Lili , Liu Xu , Wu Yuping
Published: December 2024

The development and application of solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) play a crucial role in advancing lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Consequently, the search for high‐performance, economic, and easily fabricated SSEs has become a prevailing trend. In this work, we explore an alternative approach to design the traditional commercial lithium‐ion batteries cathode material, spinel‐type LiMn2O4 (LMO) as a SSE. By blending LMO with poly(vinylidene difluoride) and combining with two layers of polyethylene (PE) film on the top and bottom, we effectively reduce its high electronic conductivity, thereby creating the PE/LMO/PE SSE. The PE/LMO/PE SSE demonstrates high ionic conductivity (3.15 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 35°C), low electronic conductivity (7.31 × 10−11 S cm−1), and good interfacial contact and stability with both the lithium metal anode, LiFePO4 and nickel‐rich Li[Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1]O2 cathodes. This study offers a new direction for the application of the electrochemically active cathode material LMO, while providing a simple and feasible solution to reduce the electronic conductivity of SSEs. Additionally, it opens up new perspectives for selecting high‐performance SSEs for use in LMBs, paving an alternative economic path toward the commercialization of solid‐state lithium metal batteries.
Effective Hydrogel Vascular Patch Dual‐Loaded with Cycloastragenol Nanostructured Lipid Carriers and Doxycycline for Repairing Extravascular Injury in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Chen Du , Song Tiantian , Liu Yi , Wang Ying , Qin Boyang , Zhang Qingyi , Hu Weipeng , Zhou Xiqiao , Qi Rong
Published: December 2024

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) plays a crucial role in the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in the clinic, but the aneurysm remains in the patient's body after surgery, continuing to pose a risk of progression. Cycloastragenol (CAG) is proven to be an effective anti‐AAA drug, and its vascular protective effects can be further improved when the hydrophobic CAG is encapsulated into nano‐sized formulations to enhance its bioavailability. In this context, this study developed an extravascular patch hydrogel loaded with CAG nanostructured lipid carriers and a hydrophilic drug of doxycycline hydrochloride (DOX). The extravascular patch delivered onto the mouse abdominal aortas can promote local permeation of hydrophilic/hydrophobic drugs at the vessel sites and provide effective vascular protection against AAA injury induced by elastase. This study introduces a novel and promising approach for AAA treatment, which can serve as a supplementary strategy after EVAR surgery.
A Microenvironment‐Responsive Graphdiyne‐Iron Nanozyme Hydrogel with Antibacterial and Anti‐Inflammatory Effect for Periodontitis Treatment
Authors: Wu Xiaojie , Wang Lu , Lu Yaning , Li Meng‐Hao , Liu Shuwei , Yang Yimeng , Song Yulian , Chen Sunzhuo , Kang Jing , Dong Alideertu , Yang Ying‐Wei
Published: December 2024

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by dental plaque, which leads to tooth loosening and shifting or even tooth loss. Current treatments, including mechanical debridement and antibiotics, often fail to eradicate recalcitrant biofilms and mitigate excessive inflammation. Moreover, these interventions can disrupt the oral microbiome, potentially compromising long‐term treatment outcomes. To address these limitations, an injectable nanoenzyme hydrogel composed of a dopamine (DA)‐modified hyaluronic acid (HA) scaffold and a graphdiyne‐iron (GDY‐Fe) complex, named GDY‐Fe@HA‐DA, exhibits excellent tissue adhesion, self‐healing, antibacterial properties, and biocompatibility. Under near‐infrared laser irradiation, GDY‐Fe@HA‐DA effectively eradicates a variety of pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Porphyromonas gingivalis, through a synergistic combination of chemodynamical and photothermal therapies. The hydrogel's efficacy is further validated in both bacterial‐infected skin wounds and rat periodontitis models. It effectively alleviates the inflammatory environment and promotes wound healing and periodontal tissue recovery. This findings highlight the potential of GDY‐Fe@HA‐DA as a promising therapeutic material for periodontitis and other tissue injuries.
Ginsenoside Rd‐Loaded Antioxidant Polymersomes to Regulate Mitochondrial Homeostasis for Bone Defect Healing in Periodontitis
Authors: Hu Congjiao , Shi Junqiu , Zhang Fan , Lv Mingchen , Ge Zhenghong , Feng Meiting , Fan Zhen , Liu Danqing , Du Jianzhong , Sun Yao
Published: December 2024

Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Initially triggered by bacterial infection, it is characterized by subsequent dysregulation of mitochondrial homeostasis, leading to ongoing loss of periodontal tissue. Mitophagic flux, a critical physiological mechanism for maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis, is compromised in periodontitis. Additionally, increased release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) exacerbates mitochondrial damage. In this study, a ginsenoside Rd (Rd)‐loaded antioxidative polymersome (RdAP) is designed, which is self‐assembled from a mitochondrial‐protective and ROS‐scavenging block copolymer, poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly(phenylboronic acid pinacol ester‐conjugated polylysine) (PEO113‐b‐P(Lys‐PAPE)60). The phenylboronic acid pinacol ester (PAPE) segment exhibits excellent ROS‐responsive properties, enabling effective ROS scavenging through antioxidant production. Rd significantly enhances mitophagic flux by 2.5‐fold in periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) under oxidative stress. Together with the antioxidative polymersome, RdAPs restore mitochondrial homeostasis and enhance the osteogenic capacity of PDLSCs, bringing it closer to that of healthy controls. In a mouse model of periodontitis, the bone mass in the RdAP‐treated group is 1.37 times greater than that in the untreated periodontitis group. Overall, the findings propose a novel strategy for addressing refractory periodontitis, which may also be applicable to other diseases characterized by mitochondrial homeostasis imbalance.
Coordination Regulation Enabling Deep Eutectic Electrolyte for Fast‐Charging High‐Voltage Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Ding Peipei , Yuan Haocheng , Xu Ligang , Wu Lingqiao , Du Haozhe , Zhao Shu , Yu Dengfeng , Qin Zuoyu , Liu Hong , Li Yue , Zhang Xu , Yu Haijun , Tang Mingxue , Ren Yaoyu , Li Liangliang , Nan Ce‐Wen
Published: December 2024

The safety and cycle stability of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) under conditions of high cut‐off voltage and fast charging put forward higher requirements for electrolytes. Here, a sulfonate‐based deep eutectic electrolyte (DEE) resulting from the eutectic effect between solid sultone and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide without any other additives is reported. The intermolecular coordination effect triggers this eutectic phenomenon, as evidenced with nuclear magnetic resonance, and thus the electrochemical behavior of the DEE can be controlled by jointly regulating the coordination effects of F···H and Li···O intermolecular interactions. The DEE with a properly coordinated environment of Li+ presents a low motion barrier and a high transport rate of localized Li+, leading to a 10 C fast‐charging LiFePO4||Li battery with a capacity retention of 95.1% after 500 cycles. Meanwhile, the strengthened α−H···F coordination broadens the electrochemical stability window of the DEE, thus enabling the cycle stability of high‐capacity and high‐voltage cathode materials in LMBs, e.g., a cycle stability at 4.5 V in the LiNi0.88Co0.07Mn0.05O2||Li battery with a capacity retention of 81.0% after 500 cycles, and an excellent compatibility in 4.5 V LiCoO2||Li and 4.8 V Li1.13Mn0.517Ni0.256Co0.097O2||Li batteries. The practical applicability of the carefully designed DEE is underscored through successful implementation in pouch cells.
Single Source Polychromatic Luminescent and White Emitting Copper Nanoclusters
Authors: Sarkar Niladri , Radhakrishnan T. P.
Published: December 2024

The low cost and fine‐tunability of the luminescence of copper nanoclusters make them attractive candidates for opto‐electronic, imaging, and sensing applications; their stability, and a precise understanding of the structure–function correlations however, continue to be challenging. A comprehensive chemical etching strategy is developed to synthesize orange, blue, and cyan emitting nanoclusters from a single source of ultrasmall copper nanoparticles; high quantum yields up to ≈34% are realized. Steady state and time‐resolved spectroscopy, electron microscopy, high resolution mass spectrometry, and computational modeling provide critical mechanistic insight into the polychromatic luminescence. A facile method for the fabrication of polymer nanocomposite thin films that sustain and stabilize the luminescent nanoclusters is presented. A subtle variation of the etching strategy without the need to admix multiple components, provides white luminescent thin films with Commission Internationale de l'éclairage (CIE) coordinates, x = 0.35, y = 0.33. The highlights of this work are i) the simple solution synthesis of stable, uniform, and pure ultrasmall Cu nanoparticles, ii) their chemical etching by subtle variations in an optimized protocol to produce highly luminescent, polychromatic nanoclusters, including white‐emitting ones, iii) stabilization of the bright luminescent systems in nanocomposite thin films, and iv) a detailed analysis of the luminescence tuning.
Cu‐Plasma‐Induced Interfacial Engineering for Nanosecond Scale WS2/CuO Heterojunction Photodetectors
Authors: Kan Tianze , Shi Kaixi , Liu Fujun , Li Jinhua , Fang Xuan
Published: December 2024

Heterojunction photodetectors (PDs) with ultrafast response speeds are urgently required for applications in fields such as optical communication and automated production. However, the low separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers owing to interfacial effects (including interfacial defects and barriers) limits the response speed to the order of seconds to milliseconds. Herein, for the first time, an interface‐engineered heterostructure is designed with a gradient band alignment to obtain a response speed on the nanosecond scale, where the separation efficiency of the photogenerated carriers is enhanced by Cu‐plasmon‐induced charge transfer. Cu nanoparticles (NPs) are implanted into the heterojunctions with two different structures: WS2/CuO@Cu and WS2@Cu/CuO. Devices with Cu NPs implanted at the interface exhibit an excellent detectivity of 5 × 1012 Jones and a high responsivity of 979 A W−1. More importantly, an ultrafast response speed of 24 ns is achieved, making it one of the fastest PDs in the field of plasmonic PDs. This high performance is attributed to Cu‐plasmon‐induced interface engineering, which is confirmed by experiments and theoretical calculations. The interface engineering method proposed in this study provides a new approach for achieving ultrafast PDs.
Optical Crosstalk Reduction via Nanorod Optical Shield for Light‐Emitting Diode Displays
Authors: Lim Hyeongtaek , Heo Hyerim , Kim Dong Yeong , Cho Jaehee
Published: December 2024

With the advancement of light‐emitting diode (LED) display technologies, optical crosstalk has emerged as a significant challenge due to the increasing miniaturization and pixel density of LED arrays. To address this issue, the introduction of a nanorod (NR) optical shield in LED devices is proposed. The shield is fabricated using a straightforward process involving the etching of LED epitaxial layers with self‐assembled Ni nanoparticles and a SiO2 hard mask, resulting in the formation of an NR array. The NR optical shield effectively reduced optical crosstalk by confining light emission to its region, redirecting lateral light into vertical emission and absorbing stray light. This approach offers a practical and efficient solution for reducing optical crosstalk and enhancing the performance of miniaturized LED arrays in advanced display applications.
Side Chain Effects on High‐Performance PPIAn2N‐Derived Dual‐Functional Devices for Balanced Blue Light Emission and UV Detection
Authors: Luo Qiao , Gao Yannan , Bai Yunshui , Wu Mengge , Xu Huixia , Wang Hua , Zheng Ding , Yu Junsheng
Published: December 2024

Dual‐function devices are being used in smart wearable electronics and human‐machine interaction because of their special functions. In this study, three modified PPIAn2N‐based emitters—PPIAn2N‐CH3, PPIAn2N‐CN, and PPIAn2N‐F—are synthesized and applied them in dual‐functional devices, specifically organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) and UV organic photodetectors (UVOPDs). Each of these molecules exhibits hybridized local and charge transfer (HLCT) excited states, which results in blue emission both in solution and in thin films. However, the proportion of local excited (LE) states to charge transfer (CT) states differs among the molecules. The non‐doped OLED using PPIAn2N‐F displayed outstanding performance, emitting deep blue light at 456 nm, with a Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage (CIE) coordinate of (0.14, 0.14), and achieving a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 8.52%. Additionally, the PPIAn2N‐F‐based OLED‐UVOPD demonstrated excellent UV detection capabilities, with a detectivity (D*) of 8.60 × 1010 Jones. The device achieved a well‐balanced EQE/D* ratio, indicating an optimal combination of luminescence efficiency and detection sensitivity. These findings underscore the potential of multifunctional devices operating in the blue emission spectrum, paving the way for advancements in dual‐functional OLED and UV detection technologies.
Spectroscopic Wonders: A Multifunctional All‐In‐One Molecule for Nanophotonics
Authors: Szukalski Adam , Cheret Yohan , Grabarz Anna M. , El‐Ghayoury Abdelkrim , Sahraoui Bouchta
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, multifunctional compounds emerge as an intriguing category of materials with potential applications in nanophotonics. Particularly, organic compounds stand out due to their bio‐friendly characteristics. In this study, a thiophene‐based carboxaldehyde is designed to address the challenges of the 21st century. The experimental approach substantiates its highly attractive molecular architecture, demonstrating simultaneous efficiency in light generation, modulation, and amplification. Employing the Maker fringes technique as a monitoring tool for nonlinear optical responses, through a comparative experimental method, efficient and repeatable higher harmonics of light generation, including double and triple frequencies are observed. Utilizing a typical pump‐probe laser setup, optically‐driven light modulation under a UV source at a frequency of 1 kHz is showcased. Furthermore, through optical pumping, a Boltzmann energy distribution inversion leading to radiative decay is achieved, specifically, effectively amplified emission reminiscent of random lasing in both liquid and solid states. Complementary quantum‐chemical calculations supported the experimental findings, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the material's scientific properties. The outcomes of this study underscore the significant potential of organic materials in terms of versatility, indicating their promising applications in nano(bio)photonics and opto‐electronics.
Enhanced Charge Holding Capacity of PVDF Nanofiber Using NiO‐CuO Nanoparticles‐Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Energy and Wearable Electronic Applications
Authors: Bindhu Amrutha , Yoon Jae Uk , Woo Insun , Gajula Prasad , Arun Anand Prabu , Bae Jin Woo
Published: December 2024

In triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), the main obstruction to the application as a sustainable energy source is their triboelectric loss. Therefore, it is necessary to develop TENGs with significant charge‐holding capacity. This study introduced a TENG device using nickel oxide–copper oxide (NC) nanoparticles (NPs)‐doped polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) electrospun nanofibers and nitrile gloves as tribonegative and tribopositive materials, respectively. The ratio and weight percentage of NC NPs on the PVDF surface are studied and optimized to improve the TENG performance. With the addition of 6 wt% 50:50 ratio of NC (NC55) NPs to the PVDF matrix, the negative surface static potential of the composite nanofiber (6PNC) attained a saturation value of −560 V after 6 h. This is 2.9 times higher than the surface static potential of the neat nanofiber (0PNC −190 V). Compared with the 0PNC TENG device, the optimized 6PNC device displayed 7.1‐fold (57–408 V), 6.3‐fold (1.6–10.2 µA), and 8.6‐fold (17–147 nC) improvements in open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current, and surface charge, respectively. Finally, the device is used to charge various capacitors and illuminate 100 LEDs. It is operated effectively using low‐power electronics and demonstrated considerable potential for use in smart wearable sensors.
Enhanced Adsorption Properties of Noble Metal Modified MoS2/WS2 Heterojunctions
Authors: Gao Kewei , Chen Haixia , Ding Jijun , Yang Mingya , Fu Haiwei , Peng Jianhong
Published: December 2024

MoS2/WS2 in‐plane heterojunction is constructed using density functional theory (DFT), and its adsorption properties for different gas molecules (CO, CO2, NO2, H2S, SO2, and SO3) are analyzed. Results indicate that the heterojunction exhibits excellent selection toward S‐series gas molecules (H2S, SO2, and SO3), particularly SO3. The adsorption energy is determined to be −3.67 eV. Then, the adsorption properties of the heterojunction are further improved by noble metal (Ag, Au, and Pt) modification. Noble metal atoms alter the surface potential energy of the heterojunction, resulting in stronger adsorption activity. For instance, the binding energies of noble metals in the Ag‐MoS2/WS2, Au‐MoS2/WS2, and Pt‐MoS2/WS2 systems are −1.03, −1.04, and −2.76 eV, respectively. Additionally, there has been a significant alteration in their bandgaps. Notably, the bandgap of Pt‐MoS2/WS2 has decreased to 1.42 eV (24.16%), which is the most pronounced change. Then, the charge density difference and density of states of noble metal‐modified MoS2/WS2 heterojunction adsorbed SO3 are analyzed. The results demonstrate that the adsorption capacity of a noble metal‐modified system for SO3 is enhanced. Finally, raising the temperature can accelerate gas molecule desorption from the system. Combining all calculation results, Ag‐MoS2/WS2 in‐plane heterojunction can be used as a candidate gas‐sensitive material for detecting SO3 at room temperature (300 K). The Pt‐MoS2/WS2 in‐plane heterojunction is demonstrated to possess effective adsorbent properties for trapping SO3 gas molecules at room temperature. This provides a new idea and theoretical basis for gas sensor development.
Combined Exsolution and Electrodeposition Strategy for Enhancing Electrocatalytic Activity of Ti‐Based Perovskite Oxides in Oxygen and Hydrogen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Zuo Shangshang , Wang Chenchen , Xia Zhi , Ding Jiaxin , Naden Aaron B. , Irvine John T. S.
Published: December 2024

The significant interest in perovskite oxides stems from their compositional and structural flexibility, particularly in the field of electrochemistry. In this study, the double E strategy (exsolution and electrodeposition strategies) is successfully devised for synthesizing perovskite‐based bifunctional electrocatalysts, enabling simultaneous OER and HER applications with exceptional catalytic performance. The synthesized R‐LCTFe/Ni catalyst exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic activity, delivering low overpotentials of 349 and 309 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for OER and HER, respectively, indicating substantial improvements in the inherent electrocatalytic activity. Moreover, the impressive stability of R‐LCTFe/Ni under alkaline conditions underscores its potential for practical water electrolysis applications. The superior bifunctional electrocatalytic performance can be attributed to the reduced charge transfer resistance and the synergistic cooperation between exsolved Fe nanoparticles and electrodeposited Ni compounds. The successful development of the R‐LCTFe/Co catalyst further confirms the transferability of the double E strategy. Compared to R‐LCTFe/Ni, the overpotential of R‐LCTFe/Co is 58 mV higher for OER, yet 48 mV lower for HER at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. This study provides an efficient and promising approach for the fabrication of highly active perovskite‐based electrocatalysts, contributing valuable insights into the design of bifunctional electrocatalysts for OER and HER.
Phosphorus–potassium interactions with calcium, magnesium, and harvest timing in alfalfa production systems
Authors: Baidoo Michael M. , Islam M. Anowarul
Published: December 2024

The interaction between phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) significantly influences alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) production. However, our understanding of this interaction in soils with high levels of exchangeable K, calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) remains limited. The interplay between soil P, K, Ca, and Mg, along with harvest timing, can affect the availability and uptake of P and K, leading to varied yield responses. Field research was conducted at the University of Wyoming James C. Hageman Sustainable Agriculture Research and Extension Center at Lingle, WY, to investigate this complex interaction and its impact on alfalfa production from 2019 to 2021. Treatments included (i) 18 selected combinations (kg ha−1) of three levels of P (0, 34, and 67 P2O5), three levels of K (0, 168, and 336 K2O), two levels of Ca (0 and 560 CaO), and two levels of Mg (0 and 56 MgO); and (ii) two harvest schedules (early harvest, late bud to early [10%] bloom; late harvest, 7–10 days after early harvest [∼100% bloom]). Treatments were factorially (18 × 2) arranged in randomized complete blocks with three replications. Under low levels of soil Ca and Mg, the 67 P2O5 and 336 K2O (kg ha−1 year−1) treatment produced the highest early harvest yield responses, while the 34 P2O5 and 336 K2O (kg ha−1 year−1) treatment excelled in late harvest yield. Alfalfa fertilized with 67 P2O5 and 336 K2O (kg ha−1 year−1) consistently achieved significant late harvest yield response in soils with high levels of Ca and Mg, leading to profitable forage production. Similar trends in P and K uptake were observed, indicating that fertilizing alfalfa with P and K can enhance productivity and profits even in soils rich in K, Ca, and Mg levels. In Wyoming and similar regions, we recommend that alfalfa growers and stakeholders consider soil nutritional status—particularly the relative exchangeable levels of K, Ca, and Mg—and harvest timing to develop P and K fertility programs for sustainable production and profitability.
Chaotic advection and mass transfer of viscous liquid–liquid flows in a novel 3D serpentine microchannel
Authors: Long Jiecai , Xie Congkai , Zhang Haojun , Zhang Xuan , Yao Jingsong , Zhang Rongguang , Chen Xun , Chen Xin
Published: December 2024

This article aimed to study the characteristics of chaotic advection and mass transfer of viscous liquid–liquid flows in a novel 3D serpentine microchannel (TSM) with hybrid structures. The TSM and its corresponding experimental setup are established, and the CFD model is verified through flow field visualization experiments. Results reveal that efficient chaotic convection in TSM is achieved through continuous irregular spatial fluid deformation. The Lyapunov exponents greater than zero indicate the existence of chaotic behavior, and the maximum lineal stretch rate λM increases linearly with the characteristic Reynolds number. The mass transfer characteristics are evaluated by diffusion mass transfer number Φ and mass transfer field synergy number Fc quantitatively. The mixing index MI shows an increasing trend as Fc increases, while the mixing effectiveness ME decreases as the outlet Reynolds number ReO decreases. The relationships of MI with λM and Fc and the relationship of ME with ReO are established.
Identifying Individuals in the Prodromal Phase of Parkinson's Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Flores‐Torres Mario H. , Hughes Katherine C. , Cortese Marianna , Hung Albert Y. , Healy Brian C. , Schwarzschild Michael A. , Bjornevik Kjetil , Ascherio Alberto
Published: December 2024

Objective

We prospectively evaluated how well combinations of signs and symptoms can identify individuals in the prodromal phase of Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

The study comprised 6,108 men who underwent repeated assessments of key prodromal features and were prospectively followed for the development of PD. Two composite measures of prodromal PD were evaluated: (i) the co‐occurrence of constipation, probable rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (pRBD), and hyposmia, and (ii) the probability of prodromal PD based on the Movement Disorders Society (MDS) research criteria. We also examined the progression and heterogeneity of the prodromal PD phase.

Results

One hundred three individuals were newly diagnosed with PD over an average follow‐up of 3.4 years. Men with constipation, pRBD, and hyposmia had a 23‐fold higher risk of receiving a PD diagnosis in the subsequent 3 years, compared with men without these features (risk ratio [RR] = 23.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 10.62–51.33). The risk of PD was 21‐fold higher in men with a probability of prodromal PD ≥ 0.8 compared with those with a probability < 0.2 (RR = 21.96, 95% CI = 11.17–43.17). Both the co‐occurrence of the 3 non‐motor features and an MDS‐based probability ≥ 0.8 had comparable predictive values, and both were stronger predictors of PD than any of the features individually. We identified 2 prodromal PD subtypes where RBD and visual color impairment were key discriminators.

Interpretation

Our study demonstrates that combinations of key signs and symptoms strongly predict future clinically manifest PD. These measures may be integrated into screening strategies to identify individuals who could be targeted for enrollment into PD prevention trials. ANN NEUROL 2024
Incremental Modification in the Existing Approaches for Affinity Chromatographic Enrichment of Phosphoproteins Improves Their Profile in Liquid Chromatography‐Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis
Authors: Agrawal Neha , Govekar Rukmini
Published: December 2024

Cell signalling is a vital process in cell physiology, which is driven by protein phosphorylation. Global phosphoproteome analysis by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) has thus gained importance in cell signalling research. However, phosphoprotein identification by LC‐MS/MS in whole cell lysates, which are complex protein mixtures, is hindered by their poor ionization coupled with suppression of peaks due to low abundance. Enrichment by immobilized metal ion‐ and metal oxide‐affinity chromatography (IMAC and MOAC), which preferentially enrich multi‐ and mono‐phosphorylated proteins, respectively, have improved their detection by MS. However, preferential enrichment limits phosphoproteome coverage in global analyses of cell lysates which contain mono‐ and multi‐phosphorylated proteins. Improvement in their coverage by sequential elution approach that exploits the complementary chemistries of these matrices has been reported. In this study, we observed that the number of phosphoproteins detected using the sequential elution approach was lower (∼250–400) as compared to the theoretically predicted number (>500) based on their reported 30% abundance in the cell proteome (1700–2200 proteins detected by MS in our cell lines). Acknowledging the merit of using multiple matrices, we used IMAC and MOAC individually and pooled the data. We observed a remarkable increase (>30%) in phosphoproteome coverage. Further, though 98% of phosphoproteins were enriched by IMAC, among the remaining 2%, those detected exclusively by MOAC were biologically important. This justified the use of multiple matrices. Thus, an incremental modification of using multiple matrices individually rather than sequentially and pooling the data markedly improved the phosphoproteome coverage, which can positively impact cell signalling research.
Revealing Resistive Switching of Phase Transitions in an Al‐Doped Single Crystal of VO2 by DC and Pulsed Electrical Measurements
Authors: Patlagan Larisa , Reisner George M. , Fisher Bertina
Published: December 2024

The simple phase diagram of pure VO2 consisting of an insulating monoclinic M1 phase and a metallic tetragonal R phase with a steep insulator‐metal‐transition (IMT) at TIMT = 340 K, is enriched by two additional insulating phases, a triclinic (T) and a monoclinic (M2) and multiple phase transitions, when strained or doped with M3+ions (M = Ga, Al, Cr, Fe, Mg). Under low‐current R(T) measurements, the T(M1 → M2) and IMT are the only once detected by X‐ray diffraction that show reproducible resistive switching (RS) and hysteresis typical of first‐order transitions. Following the surprising detection of the RS associated with the M1→T transition induced by a high electric field in Ga‐, Al‐, and Cr‐doped VO2 crystals, we attempted to uncover those associated with additional transitions in Al‐doped VO2 nanostructures, as reported by Strelcov et al., Nano Letters 2012. Reported herein is the investigation of a single crystal of nominal Al0.01V0.99O2 composition, by repeated direct current (DC) and pulsed IV measurements at fixed ambient temperatures below and at room temperature (RT). RS associated with the various phase transitions appeared in the nonlinear I(V) regime induced by self‐heating (Joule heating), including all those that are absent under low‐electric‐current measurements.
Ground Penetration Radar and Magnetic Surveys for Archaeogeophysical Prospecting at the Seti I Temple at Abydos, Sohag, Egypt
Authors: Abudeif Abdelbaset M. , Abdel Aal Gamal Z. , Peláez José A. , Sawires Rashad , Masoud Marwa M. , Elnassari Ahmad , Mansour Khamis K. , Gaber Hossameldeen A. , Mohammed Mohammed A.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an archaeogeophysical prospection in Abydos, a rich archaeological site including royal monuments and tombs from multiple periods of Ancient Egypt. Abydos is the most important burial site of ancient Egypt, having a history extending back about 7500 years. Near‐surface geophysical techniques, particularly ground magnetic and ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) surveys, have been used to discover hidden ancient archaeological objects that will help with the site's long‐term development. The main objective of this work was the depth estimation and geometry determination of the buried archaeological objects southwest Seti I temple, such as walls, tombs and other features. A proton‐precession magnetometer (G‐857) and an SIR‐4000 equipment with an antenna of 200 MHz were used as instrumentation for the magnetic and GPR surveys, respectively. A final output is a total magnetic intensity (TMI) anomaly map, which has undergone extensive filtering to separate the residual components related to the shallow objects that could potentially serve as archaeological targets from the regional components of the deeper anomalies. Depth was estimated using source parameter imaging and 3D Euler deconvolution. The qualitative interpretation of the obtained magnetic maps reveals that there are clusters of anomalies that could indicate archaeological remains. On the other hand, the GPR findings reveal the presence of reflection hyperbolae within the measured profiles coinciding with the magnetic anomalies, supporting the probable existence of archaeological buried objects, which need to be confirmed by excavation. The main depths of these objects range approximately between 1 and 3 m. Our results bring new light on yet uninvestigated archaeological features at Abydos, paving the road to renewed archaeological research in this area.
Functional Expression and Construction of a Self‐Sufficient Cytochrome P450 Chimera for Efficient Steroidal C14α Hydroxylation in Escherichia coli
Authors: Ke Xia , Dong Hong‐Duo , Zhao Xi‐Man , Wang Xin‐Xin , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Zheng Yu‐Guo
Published: December 2024

C14‐functionalized steroids enabled diverse biological activities in anti‐gonadotropin and anticancer therapy. However, access to C14‐functionalized steroids was impeded by the deficiency of chemical synthetic methods. Recently, several membrane‐bound fungal cytochrome P450s (CYPs) have been identified with steroid C14α‐hydroxylation activity. However, the lack of efficient heterologous overexpression strategy hampered their further characterization and molecular engineering. In the present study, sequences of fungi‐derived CYP genes encoding putative 14α‐hydroxylase were selected and bioinformatically analyzed. Substitution of the N‐terminal hydrophobic helix by a soluble maltose binding protein tag significantly enhanced the soluble expression level in Escherichia coli. A novel CYP originated from Bipolaris oryzae was discovered with high steroidal C14α‐hydroxylation activity when coupled with the redox partner CPRlun. A catalytically self‐sufficient chimeric CYP‐CPR was built by intramolecular fusion, and the electronic transfer rate was improved. A coenzyme NADPH regeneration system was finally constructed by the co‐expression of glucose dehydrogenase. The developed soluble multi‐enzyme cascade biotransformation system supported the selective C14α‐hydroxylation toward progesterone with a final titer of 34.54 mg/L, the highest level achieved in E. coli‐based heterologous expression system. This study provides insightful ideas on the functional expression of fungi‐derived CYPs and promises an efficient C14α‐hydroxylation system for steroidal drugs through protein engineering.
Nanoparticle‐based drug delivery system with enhanced loading and targeting performance: A brief account
Authors: Oh Jun Yong , Yang Gyeongseok , Choi Eunshil , Ryu Ja‐Hyoung
Published: December 2024

For the construction of a nanoparticle (NP)‐supported drug delivery system (DDS), loading efficiency, stable encapsulation, and targeted delivery are considered crucial to achieve a high therapeutic outcome of the resulting system. Conventionally, NPs are functionalized with desired molecules via covalent interactions, which do not only limit the intraparticle space for drug loading but also cause significant loss of the preloaded drug through the multistep chemical reactions. Furthermore, NPs with covalently modified surface are easily surrounded with biomolecules during blood circulation, and their accumulation in a target site becomes considerably hampered. Keeping these issues in mind, we herein summarize the recently reported unconventional strategies to prepare a more powerful DDS with enhanced loading and targeting ability, by installing a noncovalent polymeric gatekeeper or surface‐protective biomolecular layer on the NP surface.
Extrudability of geopolymers and control of the formed networks by zeta potential and NMR spectroscopy
Authors: N'Cho Wilfried Cyrille , Gharzouni Ameni , Sobrados Isabel , Jouin Jenny , Aimable Anne , Rossignol Sylvie
Published: December 2024

In this study, the local‐scale structure of geopolymers shaped by extrusion or 3D printing was investigated and correlated to the reactivity of the raw materials. The reactivity of the different metakaolin mixtures was evaluated using zeta potential measurements with different alkali silicate solutions, followed by shaping via 3D printing; additionally, the different networks formed were identified via NMR spectroscopy. The results showed that in the presence of weakly reactive basic solutions, the Al(OH)4− species were released in low amounts due to an increase in the polymerized silicate species in the solution, resulting in a low zeta potential in absolute value. Conversely, for more reactive solutions, the silicate species were more depolymerized, and the siliceous and aluminous metakaolin species were more easily released in solution, resulting in increasingly low zeta potential values. Some samples were 3D printed with metakaolin mixtures using different printers and silicate solutions (K, KNa) with alkaline cation concentrations of [M] > 2.8 M in the mixtures; here, the metakaolin zeta potential values were greater than −50 mV, and the local‐scale structure consisted of more than 50% geopolymer networks (Q4(3Al) + Q4(2Al)).
Synthesis, Characterization and Reactivity of a Base‐Stabilized Dialane(4) Supported by Double Layer Nitrogen–Phosphorus Ligands
Authors: Chen Pengfei , Li Yafei , Zhao Qianyi , Zhu Congqing , Zhu Qin
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

We synthesized a dialane(4) compound (2) stabilized by double‐layer N‐P ligands. Upon reduction with KC8, compound 2 demonstrates solvent‐dependent reactivity: in THF, it undergoes C—O bond cleavage to yield product [MeN(CH2CH2NPiPr2)2Al(CH2)4O]2K2; whereas in a THF/toluene mixture, it results in the activation of the methyl C—H bond in toluene, forming product [MeN(CH2CH2NPiPr2)2AlH]2K2. We propose that these reactions involve an “Al(I)” intermediate, which facilitates oxidative addition with either the C—O bond of THF or the C—H bond of toluene.
Tubules, Rods, and Spirals: Diverse Modes of SepF‐FtsZ Assembling
Authors: Choudhury Jagrity , Chaudhuri Barnali N.
Published: December 2024

Z‐ring formation by FtsZ, the master assembler of the divisome, is a key step in bacterial cell division. Membrane anchoring of the Z‐ring requires the assistance of dedicated Z‐ring binding proteins, such as SepF and FtsA. SepF participates in bundling and membrane anchoring of FtsZ in gram‐positive bacteria. We report in vitro biophysical studies of the interactions between FtsZ and a cytoplasmic component of cognate SepF from three different bacteria: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus gallinarum. While the cytosolic domain of SepF from M. tuberculosis is primarily a dimer, those from S. aureus and E. gallinarum polymerize to form ring‐like structures. Mycobacterial SepF helps in the bundling of FtsZ filaments to form thick filaments and large spirals. On the other hand, ring‐forming SepF from the Firmicutes bundle FtsZ into tubules. Our results suggest that the oligomeric form of SepF directs how it bundles FtsZ filaments.
Analyzing Spinal Cord Stimulation With Different Electrode Configurations: A Numerical Study
Authors: Aydin Elif Feyza , Zengĺn Reyhan
Published: December 2024

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) represents a therapeutic approach for chronic pain management in patients refractory to conventional treatments. By implanting electrodes in the epidural space, SCS aims to mitigate pain transmission to the brain through electrical stimulation, often resulting in sensory perceptions such as paresthesia. This study investigates the influence of electrode configurations on electrical parameters, including current density and electric potential, within the spinal cord environment. Utilizing computational models of the spinal canal incorporating components such as epidural fat, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), gray matter, and white matter, our analysis explores the distribution of electric potential and current density. Specifically, configurations employing four and nine electrodes are evaluated under both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) stimulations. For DC stimulations at currents of 1, 5, and 10 mA, our findings indicate that the four‐electrode model generated current density values in epidural fat ranging from 107.90 to 130.98 mA/cm2 and electric potential values ranging from 3.51 to 4.78 V. Similarly, the nine‐electrode model produced current density values ranging from 92.51 to 223.61 mA/cm2 and electric potential values ranging from 1.27 to 7.83 V under the same conditions. The results demonstrate a proportional relationship between applied current, current density, and electric potential. Furthermore, our investigation reveals a gradual decrease in electrical potential and current density from the epidural space to the gray matter. Discussions encompass the safety implications of these findings, examining whether the observed electrical parameters remain within tolerable limits for patient well‐being. Additionally, the study explores the effects of AC stimulation across frequencies ranging from 250 Hz to 10 kHz, revealing an inverse correlation between frequency and charge parameters. Specifically, higher frequencies corresponded to reduced charge per phase and charge density, underscoring the frequency‐dependent nature of these electrical properties.
Color Palette Generation From Digital Images: A Review
Authors: Gao Yafan , Liang Jinxing , Yang Jie
Published: December 2024

Color palette is a critical component of art, design, and lots of applications, providing the basis for organizing and utilizing colors to achieve specific objectives. However, generating color palettes from digital images presents unique challenges due to the complexity of colors in images. This review comprehensively investigates various techniques for generating color palettes from digital images and provides a thorough classification and discussion of these techniques from multiple perspectives. A color space must be selected to generate a color palette, and a generation method must be employed. This paper offers a concise overview of color spaces, an introduction to current palette generation methods, and an analysis of the metrics used to evaluate color differences between palettes. The review encompasses traditional manual methods and computer‐aided automation methods, further categorized as histogram‐based, clustering‐based, and neural network‐based methods. Discussion on the strengths, weaknesses, and applicability of existing methods are presented, and also opportunities for future research to enhance color palette generation from digital images are identified.
Noninvasive detection of twin zygosity using genome‐wide linkage disequilibrium information
Authors: Kong Lingrong , Yang Yingjun , Yuan Chao , Wei Xing , Zhou Xinyao , Zhou Jia , Xing Ya , Zou Gang , Sun Qianqian , Cai Luyao , Liang Qiufeng , Zhang Yao , Wang Hongkun , Liu Zesi , Wu Di , Sun Luming
Published: December 2024

Dear Editor, in this study, we propose a novel linkage disequilibrium information‐based noninvasive zygosity (LDNZ) assessment method in twin pregnancies. It combines fetus‐specific allele frequency analysis with LD block to reduce the number of required single nucleotide polymorphism markers and experiment costs. LDNZ method offers a noninvasive, accurate, and cost‐effective solution for zygosity assessment, addressing the need for precise obstetric care in twin pregnancies.
Exploring the Link: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis on the Prevalence and Association Between Refractive Errors and Intermittent Exotropia
Authors: Mohammad Najah K. , Rajab Ibrahim Ali , Mutar Mohammed Tareq , Ismail Mustafa
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

Refractive errors and intermittent exotropia are prevalent conditions in pediatric populations, impacting visual development and quality of life. Despite the co‐occurrence of conditions such as myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism with strabismus, comprehensive analyses of their coexistence are limited. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of refractive error among children with intermittent exotropia and find the correlation between the angle of deviation for far and near with factors like mean spherical equivalent and age.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched up to February 13, 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies detailing clinical presentation, management strategies, and outcomes, while exclusion criteria eliminated review articles, conference abstracts, animal research, and studies with inadequate clinical information. Data extraction and quality assessment were independently performed by multiple reviewers, with discrepancies resolved through consensus. Forest plot was used to show the mean spherical equivalent and the angle of deviation, while publication bias was demonstrated using funnel plot with Egger test.

Results

The search yielded 932 articles, with 23 meeting the inclusion criteria. Studies represented four geographical regions, with a combined sample size of 5407 participants aged 3–10 years. The mean refractive errors varied widely, with an overall pooled mean of −1.787 (95% CI: −5.392 to 1.818). Overminus lens therapy and surgical interventions were common management strategies, with surgery prevalent in cases with higher distant angle deviation. The myopia was more prevalent than hypermetropia (26.82%/16.10%). Meta‐regression showed that the mean spherical equivalent had a significant effect on the angle of deviation far and near.

Conclusion

There was a significant correlation between myopia and intermittent exotropia in Middle Eastern and Asian pediatric populations. Myopia is notably more prevalent with significant effect of mean spherical equivalent on near‐angle deviation.
CEO Overconfidence and Corporate Tax Strategy
Authors: Hsu Wei , Lee Yvonne
Published: December 2024

Literature in accounting, economics, and corporate finance explores how top corporate executives’ personal traits and psychological biases affect firm decisions. This study focuses on one specific dimension of CEO personality: overconfidence and examines how CEO overconfidence influences corporate tax strategies. Overconfident executives tend to expect good outcomes due to optimistic bias or overestimation of their ability to bring about success. Therefore, they tend to overestimate the returns on investment projects and overinvest. We postulate that overconfident CEOs are inclined to seek risky tax planning activities to generate additional cash streams to make up for those projects not producing as much cash flow as originally expected. We find our three measures of overconfidence to be positively correlated with the book‐tax difference (BTD). Our main overconfidence measure, proxied by CEOs delaying exercising their stock options, is negatively correlated with the cash effective tax rate (CETR), consistent with our prediction that overconfident CEOs exhibit more tax aggressiveness to preserve cash. Additionally, we test whether corporate governance affects corporate tax strategies and show that overconfident CEOs continue to have a negative effect on cash‐effective tax rates regardless of the strength of board governance.