bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening of Alkaloids in Sophora Flavescens with Liquid Chromatography Tandem Data-Dependent Acquisition Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Wang Hua , Ding Hui
Published: November 2023

A novel and simple hyphenated method was applied for the screening of alkaloids in S. flavescens. The approach combined easy sample extraction with an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) and a high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) in the data-dependent acquisition (DDA) method. With the optimized chromatographic program, ten alkaloids were screened. Among them, matrine, oxymatrine, oxysophoridine, sophocarpine, and oxysophocarpine were identified and quantified. The other five alkaloids were identified with accurate m/z value in MS1 and product ions in MS2. The quantification method was validated with specificity, linearity, recovery, and precision. The LOD and LOQ were determined. In twelve batches of collected S. flavescens roots, the identified ten alkaloids were all observed. The oxymatrine was the most abundant component, and sophocarpine was the least abundant in these samples. This comprehensive method is a powerful tool for the biochemical and clinical research of S. flavescens. It can also be adopted in resource utilization and related medicine quality control.
“Five Minutes”
Authors: Crowe Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

In this narrative medicine essay, a retired family physician recalls sitting with her mother in the final minutes of her life after the ventilator has been removed.
Population Weighting in Statistical Analysis
Authors: Si Yajuan , Lee Sunghee , Heeringa Steven G.
Published: November 2023

This Guide to Statistics and Methods provides an overview of weighted analyses of population-based surveys, which can help achieve statistically valid, representative population-based findings.
Association of Smoking Cessation and Cardiovascular, Cancer, and Respiratory Mortality
Authors: Thomson Blake , Islami Farhad
Published: November 2023

This study examines the association between years since quitting smoking and mortality in the US from 1997 to 2018.
Race and Sports
Authors: Foy Steven L.
Published: November 2023

American sociologists studying race and sports often focus on: (1) racial differences in access to sports; (2) differences in how various racial groups are represented in sports; and (3) racial differences in the treatment of sports participants. (Similar processes operate globally but are not addressed here due to space constraints.) Although a number of barriers to diverse sports participation have diminished, differences in representation across racial groups and specific sports persist among athletes, management, owners, and sports viewers and via team names and mascots. Further, treatment within sports contexts differs by racial group in accordance with prevailing stereotypes and discriminatory norms.
Race/Ethnicity and COVID‐19
Authors: Jaspal Rusi , Breakwell Glynis M.
Published: November 2023

This entry focuses on the significance of race and ethnicity in relation to COVID‐19, and in particular on the disparities faced during the pandemic by racial and ethnic minorities in the United Kingdom and the United States. Empirical research into physical health, mental health, and engagement in preventive behaviors in the context of COVID‐19 is discussed. Some of the main social psychological factors that appear to contribute to racial and ethnic disparities in relation to COVID‐19 are also highlighted.
TikTok
Authors: Boffone Trevor
Published: November 2023

TikTok is a video‐sharing social media platform that has become the most downloaded app in the world since its 2017 debut. The app features short videos up to three minutes long but often much shorter. TikTok content is far‐reaching, ranging from dancing videos and book reviews to cooking tutorials and educational videos. TikTok features a powerful algorithm that gives each user a personally curated and infinitely scrollable stream of content designed to entertain, provoke, and encourage more time on the app.
Blockbusting
Authors: Orser W. Edward
Published: November 2023

Real estate blockbusting, which was pervasive in many US cities in the post‐World War II period, was the intentional action of a real estate broker to place an African American resident in a previously all‐white neighborhood for the express purpose of the excessive profit to be made by panicking whites into selling at low prices and then charging marked‐up prices to incoming minority residents. The Fair Housing provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 declared it an illegal practice “for profit, to induce or attempt to induce” sales and rentals “by representations regarding the entry or prospective entry into the neighborhood of [a] person or persons of a particular race, color, religion, etc.” The 1968 Act, which declared discrimination in residential sales, rentals, or loans illegal, specifically outlawed blockbusting and indirectly barred other discriminatory real estate practices, including steering and redlining.
Capital Punishment
Authors: Harmon Talia Roitberg
Published: November 2023

An examination of death penalty practices in the USA in the past few decades indicates a state‐by‐state movement toward abolition, a significant drop in executions since the peak in the late 1990s, and an equally astounding downturn of death sentences during the same time frame. This means that capital punishment continues largely as a function of outcomes in a very small number of outlier counties in a handful of Southern states that are responsible for most of the nation's death sentences and executions.
Friendships of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer People
Authors: Ueno Koji , Dominguez Rachael
Published: November 2023

Friendships of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people relate to key issues in sociological research such as inequalities, social segregation, and community organization, and they have important implications for individual and collective well‐being. LGBTQ people receive unique benefits from their friendships with other LGBTQ people, including opportunities to disclose, share, and affirm their sexual and gender identities, as well as practical suggestions about how to cope with stigmatization in heteronormative, cisnormative society. These friendships may be embedded in LGBTQ people's “family of choice” and can be viewed as dyadic building blocks of the LGBTQ community. Friendships between LGBTQ people and cisgender, straight people have important implications for social inequality. Some studies show that these friendships promote equality by providing cisgender, straight people with opportunities to correct their stereotypes about LGBTQ people. Other studies give more critical views by showing that these friendships reinforce sexual and gender categories and impose greater burden of friendship maintenance on LGBTQ people.
Gendered Aspects of War and International Violence
Authors: Gordon Eleanor
Published: November 2023

Armed conflict and violence are gendered. In other words, women, men, girls, boys, and people of diverse gender identities have different experiences of conflict and violence; and gender identities, gender relations, and gender norms help shape conflict and violence. Given that armed conflict and violence are gendered, it is vital that efforts to understand, prevent, and respond to conflict and violence, and to build peace and security, take these different experiences into account. This entry reflects on the gendered dynamics of armed conflict and the harms that arise when gender is ignored or conflict, peace, and security are viewed in a gendered binary way.
Marginalization, Outsiders
Authors: Dean Hartley
Published: November 2023

Marginalization is the process by which groups or individuals may become outsiders, excluded from economic, social, or cultural participation. The process has been variously observed in relation to the experiences of minority ethnic immigrants in industrialized countries on the one hand, and systemically impoverished majorities in less economically developed countries on the other. It may be manifested in exclusion from labor market participation or through dependence on informal, precarious, or unregulated labor activity. It can be attributed to exclusion from socially accepted standards of consumption and lifestyles. Stigmatized social groups may be socially and spatially isolated within society in neglected neighborhoods. Ethnic minority diasporas and refugees can be marginalized by systemic racism, disabled people by disablism, and people exhibiting certain behaviors through criminalization.
Welfare Dependency and Welfare Underuse
Authors: Dean Hartley
Published: November 2023

“Welfare dependency” is a term applied (sometimes pejoratively) to the use of public benefits and services provided by the state. Such benefits and services have evolved in economically developed countries in recognition of the collective responsibilities owed to dependent members of society at points in the life course when they may not be able fully to depend on provision by families and/or the labor market. Critics of state benefits and social services may seek, on the one hand, to restrict or limit individual dependency through the application of means tests and/or behavioral conditions. Supporters, on the other hand, are concerned when citizens who need and have a right to receive state benefits or services fail to do so. There is evidence that state welfare systems can and do effectively smooth the ways in which contributions to and benefits from the state are made and received over the life course, but also that poorer and disadvantaged groups in society may systematically lose out, particularly in more socially and economically unequal societies.
Women in Science
Authors: Rosser Sue V.
Published: November 2023

The work of historians of science, data analysts, gender studies scholars, and sociologists of science informs the interdisciplinary field of women in science. Historians have elucidated the changing impact of gender and gender roles on women's lives as scientists at different historical times, in different geographic locations, and in different scientific disciplines. Data gathered by national governments on the numbers and status of women in science provide a mechanism to document the numbers of women in different disciplines and the positions they hold. Relatively recently, the National Science Foundation has recognized the role of intersectionalities and their impact on the percentages of degrees obtained by women in different science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines, the sector or institutional type of employment, unemployment rates, salaries, and women's daily experiences as scientists.
Women, Sexuality and
Authors: Vares Tiina
Published: November 2023

Western thought is underpinned by hierarchical binaries or dualisms such as mind/body, culture/nature, masculine/feminine, active/passive, to name but a few. Within this framework, “woman” is associated with characteristics such as passive, responsive, and inferior. These are constructed in opposition to “man,” described as active, aggressive/predatory, and superior. The cultural investment in binarization, particularly between the two sexes, also produces heterosexuality as the only normative form of desire, and privileges so‐called masculine values and experiences over so‐called feminine values. With respect to sexuality, Luce Irigaray argues that western culture has persistently negated or repressed modes of sexual experience that may be specific to women and that do not fit with masculinist assumptions about women's sexuality.
World Bank
Authors: Kelly Kristy , Lee Susan Hagood
Published: November 2023

The World Bank is a multilateral development bank that provides low‐interest loans, interest‐free credits, grants, and technical assistance to middle‐ and low‐income countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. The bank's twin goals are to reduce poverty and to increase economic growth. It originated in the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference, together with its sister organization, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), to stabilize the international economy after World War II. The bank raises funds through the sale of bonds on the international market and through donations from member states. Voting is weighted by the size of member nations' economies, and the United States has the most influence. The World Bank makes loans at concessional rates for infrastructure, agriculture, social programs, and private enterprise development. Since the debt crisis of the 1970s, it has required structural adjustment policy reforms as a condition of its loans. Critics charge that World Bank policies have hurt the most vulnerable, increased poverty, and damaged the environment.
Friedhöfe
Authors: Mordhorst Anneka , Zimmermann Iris , Fleige Heiner , Horn Rainer
Published: November 2023

Friedhofsböden werden im deutschsprachigen Raum überwiegend als Nekrosole oder Rigosole, international als Necrosols oder Anthrosols klassifiziert. Standortfaktoren wie Bodenart, Tiefgründigkeit und Grund‐ oder Stauwassereinfluss spielen eine wichtige Rolle hinsichtlich der Verwesungs‐ (Erdgräber) und Filterleistung (Erd‐ und Urnengräber). Für die vollständige Verwesung innerhalb der Ruhefristen (20–30 Jahre) muss der Sauerstoffbedarf über den funktionierenden Gasaustausch durch die mindestens 90 cm mächtige Deckschicht zur Sargzone gedeckt sein. Unterhalb der Bestattungstiefe (Grabsohle) ist eine ausreichend hohe Filterwirkung der mindestens 70 cm mächtigen Filterschicht erforderlich, um aus dem Sarg oder der Urne austretende (Schad‐)Stoffe, u. a. Schwermetalle, mechanisch und/oder chemisch zu binden, wodurch die Gefahr einer Grundwasserkontamination herabgesetzt wird. Die wenigen Untersuchungen von Urnengräbern und Totenaschen machen deutlich, dass nicht nur die Totenasche eine hohe Streuung im Schwermetallgehalt aufweist, sondern Schwermetallelemente in unterschiedlichem Ausmaß auch aus dem Urnenmaterial in den Boden freigesetzt werden.

Die Durchführung von Sarg‐ und Urnenbestattungen in Böden stellt einen tiefgreifenden Eingriff in die Horizontabfolge und in die Bodenstruktur und ‐stabilität dar, der mit Änderungen der physikalischen und chemischen Bodeneigenschaften und ‐funktionen (Gas‐ und Wasserhaushalt) einhergeht. Vor allem in feinkörnigen Böden können Staunässe und schlechtere Sauerstoffverfügbarkeit innerhalb des Grabes auftreten, die die Bildung von Wachsleichen (Adipocire) begünstigen. Die Beimischung von Branntkalk (Calciumoxid) ist als kostengünstige und effektive Meliorationsmaßnahme zur Verbesserung der Bodenstruktur des wiederverfüllten Bodens im Erdgrab (Deckschicht) beschrieben. Aus Sicht des Bodenschutzes ist daher bei der Ausweisung von Flächen für Urnen‐ oder Erdgräber auf stau‐ oder grundwasserferne sowie tiefgründige Böden mit guten Filter‐ und Puffereigenschaften unterhalb der Bestattungstiefe zu achten.
Impact of early cognitive impairment on outcome trajectory in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Li Zuo‐Qiao , Bu Xiao‐Qing , Cheng Jing , Deng Lan , Lv Xin‐Ni , Wang Zi‐Jie , Hu Xiao , Yang Tian‐Nan , Yin Hao , Liu Xue‐Yun , Zhao Li‐Bo , Xie Peng , Li Qi
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess the prevalence and factors associated with early cognitive impairment in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients and to describe short‐term recovery trajectories among ICH patients with early cognitive impairment.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled ICH patients without baseline dementia in our institutions. Cognitive function was assessed using mini‐mental state examination (MMSE), and functional outcome was evaluated at discharge, 3, and 6 months after symptoms onset using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). We used multinomial logistic regression models to investigate potential risk factors and generalized linear models to analyze the functional outcome data.

Results

Out of 181 patients with ICH, 167 were included in the final analysis. Early cognitive impairment occurred in 60.48% of patients with ICH. Age (odds ratio [OR] per 1‐year increase, 1.037; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.003–1.071; p = 0.034), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (OR per 1‐point increase, 1.146; 95% CI, 1.065–1.233; p < 0.001) and lobar ICH location (OR, 4.774; 95% CI, 1.810–12.593; p = 0.002) were associated with early cognitive impairment in ICH patients. Patients with ≥10 years of education were less likely to experience early cognitive impairment (OR, 0.323; 95% CI, 0.133–0.783; p = 0.012). Participants with early cognitive impairment had a higher risk of poor outcome (OR, 4.315; 95% CI, 1.503–12.393; p = 0.005) than those without. Furthermore, there was a significantly faster functional recovery rate for those without early cognitive impairment compared with those with at 3 and 6 months (p < 0.05).

Interpretation

Early cognitive impairment was prevalent and associated with poor outcomes in ICH patients, which decelerated short‐term functional recovery.
Suspension High‐Velocity Oxy‐Fuel–Sprayed Dense Vertically Cracked and Suspension‐Plasma‐Sprayed Columnar Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia Coatings: Calcia Magnesia Alumino Silicates Infiltration and Thermal Cycling Performance
Authors: Memon Halar , Leng Kah , Rincón Romero Acacio , Lokachari Siddharth , Curry Nicholas , Hussain Tanvir
Published: November 2023

The quest to increase the surface temperatures and resistance to the corrosive environment of thermal barrier coatings topcoats mean that newer coating design strategies are needed. In this study, a performance evaluation of suspension high‐velocity oxy‐fuel (SHVOF)‐sprayed dense vertically cracked (DVC) and suspension‐plasma‐sprayed (SPS) columnar structure (CS) topcoats is conducted. The calcia magnesia alumino silicate (CMAS) evaluation is conducted at 1300 °C for 30 min, whereas the furnace cycling tests (FCT) is conducted at 1135 °C for 45 min cycle dwell time. The CMAS infiltrates down to the bond coat layer, but does not induce partial or complete topcoat spallation on all studied topcoat layers. In terms of CMAS infiltration, the CMAS appears to be restricted along the vertical cracks. The FCT of the SPS CS structure indicates a failure largely at the thermally grown oxide (TGO)–topcoat interface, while the DVC topcoat layers indicate a mix‐mode failure, i.e., both material‐associated cracking and localized spallations at the TGO–topcoat interface. Overall, the SHVOF‐sprayed ethanol‐based DVC topcoat seems to offer a balanced trade‐off, i.e., a majority of the topcoat is still intact after 100 thermal cycles and exceeds the material durability and performance offered by the SPS CS structure.
Eliminating Equiaxed Grain Defects in a Ni‐Based Single‐Crystal Blade Platform by Flattening the Liquidus Isotherm
Authors: Szeliga Dariusz
Published: November 2023

The article presents a mechanism for the formation of equiaxed grain defects and a new approach to eliminate them during the directional solidification of single‐crystal CMSX‐4 nickel‐based superalloy blades. The standard Bridgman method produces blade castings with clusters of equiaxed grains in platform areas above the root corners containing long freckle chains. The mechanism proposed considers the curvature of the liquidus isotherm and suggests that isolated dendrite fragments move upward from the freckle channel to the melt of the platform area. The floating surviving grains settle at the columnar dendrite tips, where they continue to grow into large equiaxed grains that block the development of the single‐crystal structure in the platform area located above the root corners. To eliminate these defects from the platform, a new approach is proposed, which involves introducing inner radiation baffles along the mold height to control the liquidus isotherm curvature in the blade. This stops the movement of small dendritic fragments from the root corner to the platform area, resulting in a significant reduction of freckles at the root and obtaining a typical single‐crystal structure free of equiaxed grains in the platform.
Multidimensional Biomimetic Construction of Highly Sensitive Wrinkled Gels Based on the Transformation of Multiple Supramolecular Interactions Induced by Dual‐Solvent Strategy
Authors: Zhou Shuai , Zhang Yu‐Jia , Zhang Chen , Yi Chen‐Xin , Han Tian‐Hang , Huang Jian‐Hua , Ding Lang , Peng Yang‐Rong , Sun Tian‐Shu
Published: November 2023

Traditional artificial skin gels often only focuses on a single perspective and overlooks the necessity of multidimensional synergistic design for sensitivity enhancement. To address these problems, the innovative introduction of dual solvents on the surface of polyacrylamide/sodium alginate gel induces to the transformation of supramolecular interactions including ion coordination, crystalline alcohol, and phase separation, synergistically achieving adjustable wrinkle wavelengths (304.2 ± 19.9 to 2393.5 ± 95.9 µm) and modulated chemical compositions with tunable moduli (87.5 ± 3.3 to 157.6 ± 3.7 kPa). This flexible strategy allows the construction of long‐range ordered wrinkled microstructures of three‐dimensional surfaces and complex morphologies. Meanwhile, the bridge effect induced by crystalline alcohols directs the insertion of ethanol molecules into the polymer chains, effectively reducing intramolecular friction. Benefiting from the small wavelength and low modulus dominated by crystalline alcohol, the wrinkled gel exhibits extremely high sensitivity of 164 kPa−1 (<0.5 kPa) and wide detection range (44.3 kPa). The wrinkled gel remains stable high sensitive to detect micro‐ and large stress, tactile perception, and human motion behaviors. This work proposes a new strategy for constructing highly sensitive bioinspired skin from multiple dimensions, showing broad application prospects in the fields of bioengineering and behavioral cognition.
Revealing Design Rules for Improving The Photostability of Non‐Fullerene Acceptors from Molecular to Aggregation Level
Authors: Zhang Wenqing , Du Xiaoyan , Ma Yunlong , Qiao Jiawei , Zheng Qingdong , Hao XiaoTao
Published: November 2023

With the rapid increase in power conversion efficiency of organic photovoltaics due to the development of non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs), prolonging the operational lifetime of devices becomes one of the critical prerequisites for commercial application. In this work, the degradation pathways of a wide range of state‐of‐the‐art NFA molecules via multiple spectroscopic techniques combined with density functional theory and molecular dynamics simulation are revealed. The structural confinement and molecular ordering are responsible for molecular conformational stability under illumination. More importantly, a very general trend is revealed that the origin of increased nonradiative decay under illumination is predominately in the aggregated states with strong intermolecular interactions while the intramolecular exciton dynamics are stable. The increased nonradiative decay correlates with reduced exciton diffusion length. This work provides vital information toward the design of intrinsically photo‐stable NFAs at the molecular level and the importance of aggregation control toward long‐term stable organic solar cells.
Beyond Symmetry: Exploring Asymmetric Electrospun Nanofiber Membranes for Liquid Separation
Authors: Lu Tian‐Dan , Wang Qian , Gu Sheng‐Shen , Sun Shi‐Peng
Published: November 2023

Composite membranes with asymmetric traits have gained attention in liquid separation, featuring gradient chemical and physical attributes that align or oppose mass transfer direction. Chemically asymmetric configurations harness internal driving forces to heighten separation efficiency, rendering them an appealing option for heightened separation efficiency and fouling prevention. Concurrently, the internal hierarchical structure differences within composite membranes—such as fiber‐based structural adjustments and the gradient density of functional layers—yield the dual benefits of effective liquid repelling and heightened transport efficiency. Unlike conventional phase‐change methods, electrospinning technology possesses advantages in constructing and governing composite fibrous membrane materials with asymmetric chemistry and hierarchical structures, driven by its adaptable stacking methodologies. Notably, the inherent pore structure of electrospun nanofibrous membranes emerges as a proven solution for minimizing transport resistance. In recent times, interest has surged in electrospun nanofibrous membranes endowed with internal asymmetric properties. However, the spotlight has predominantly graced Janus membranes, spotlighting opposite wettability on different sides, leaving other facets of asymmetric membrane enhancement somewhat underexplored. This comprehensive work unveils recent strides in design, fabrication, facilitated transport mechanisms, and real‐world liquid separation applications, all under the aegis of electrospun nanofiber membranes, each endowed with distinct asymmetric properties.
Transmissive Polarization Converter with Eliminated Filtering Effect Based on Non‐Reciprocal Metasurface
Authors: Wang Ping , Wang Yu , Zhou Hongcheng , Li Bing , Qin Yifei , Yan Zhongming
Published: November 2023

The utilization of polarization conversion metasurfaces (PCMs) has enormously facilitated the capabilities of numerous wireless systems and optical devices. However, the cross‐polarization conversion performed by the PCM inevitably results in a parasitic filtering effect that severely hinders its capacity to receive multiple polarization waves. In this paper, a high‐efficiency transmissive PCM based on the non‐reciprocal metasurface integrated with the NPN transistors is proposed, which can convert both input x‐ and y‐polarized waves into the y‐polarized transmitted wave, meanwhile, the parasitic filtering effect of the polarization converter is effectively eliminated. The total transmission efficiency of orthogonal polarizations is higher than 50% within 3.26–3.39 GHz, excluding the gain from the transistor‐based circuits, and the peak efficiency reaches 85.4% at 3.35 GHz. In addition, the proposed PCM opens up the possibilities for expanding the range of received polarization states. For the conceptual demonstration, the conversion from arbitrary linear polarizations to y‐polarization has been achieved with the transmission coefficients higher than ‐0.66 dB at 3.35 GHz. The performances of designs have been verified by experiments and tests. These designs show potential for breaking the constraints on multiple polarization conversion and promoting the development of versatile PCMs.
Advancements in Skin‐Mediated Drug Delivery: Mechanisms, Techniques, and Applications
Authors: Lee Dong Ha , Lim Sunyoung , Kwak Sung Soo , Kim Joohee
Published: November 2023

Skin‐mediated drug delivery methods currently are receiving significant attention as a promising approach for the enhanced delivery of drugs through the skin. Skin‐mediated drug delivery offers the potential to overcome the limitations of traditional drug delivery methods, including oral administration and intravenous injection. The challenges associated with drug permeation through layers of skin, which act as a major barrier, are explored, and strategies to overcome these limitations are discussed in detail. This review categorizes skin‐mediated drug delivery methods based on the means of increasing drug permeation, and it provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms and techniques associated with these methods. In addition, recent advancements in the application of skin‐mediated drug delivery are presented. The review also outlines the limitations of ongoing research and suggests future perspectives of studies regarding the skin‐mediated delivery of drugs.
Modular Engineering of Aptamer‐Based Nanobiotechnology for Conditional Control of ATP Sensing
Authors: Li Lele , Li Mengyuan
Published: November 2023

Dynamic changes of intracellular, extracellular, and subcellular adenosine triphosphates (ATPs) have fundamental interdependence with the physio‐pathological states of cells. Spatially selective in situ imaging of such ATP dynamics offers valuable mechanistic insights into the related biological activities. Despite significant advances in the design of aptamer sensors for ATP detection, the dearth of methods that enable precise ATP imaging in specific cellular locations remains a challenge in this field. This review focuses on the modular engineering of regulatable sensing technology via the integration of aptamer probe designs with advanced functional nanomaterials, allowing conditional control of ATP sensing and imaging with high spatial precision from subcellular organelles to living animals. Highlighting the recent advances in the design of photo‐triggered nanosensors for spatiotemporally controlled ATP imaging, endogenously‐triggered ATP sensing in a cell‐selective manner, and spatially‐controlled nanodevices for ATP imaging in specific organelles and extracellular microenvironments. Emphasis will be put on elucidating the principles of how nanotechnology can be applied to regulate the spatial precision of aptamer‐based ATP sensing activities. The authors envision that this perspective provides insights into the engineering of aptamer‐based nanobiotechnology for opening new frontiers in precise molecular sensing and other bio‐applications.
2H–2M Phase Control of WSe2 Nanosheets by Se Enrichment Toward Enhanced Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Kwon Ik Seon , Kwak In Hye , Kim Ju Yeon , Lee Seung Jae , Sial Qadeer Akbar , Ihsan Junaid , Lee Kug‐Seung , Yoo Seung Jo , Park Jeunghee , Kang Hong Seok
Published: November 2023

The phase control of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) is an intriguing approach for tuning the electronic structure toward extensive applications. In this study, WSe2 nanosheets synthesized via a colloidal reaction exhibit a phase conversion from semiconducting 2H to metallic 2M under Se‐rich growth conditions (i.e., increasing the concentration of Se precursor or lowering the growth temperature). High‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy images are used to identify the stacking sequence of the 2M phase, which is distinctive from that of the 1T′ phase. First‐principles calculations employing various Se‐rich models (intercalation and substitution) indicated that Se enrichment induces conversion to the 2M phase. The 2M phase WSe2 nanosheets with the Se excess exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic performance in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In situ X‐ray absorption fine structure studies suggested that the excess Se atoms in the 2M phase WSe2 enhanced the HER catalytic activity, which is supported by the Gibbs free energy (ΔGH*) of H adsorption and the Fermi abundance function. These results provide an appealing strategy for phase control of TMD catalysts.
Selenium‐Anchored Chlorine Redox Chemistry in Aqueous Zinc Dual‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Ze , Hou Yue , Wang Yiqiao , Wei Zhiquan , Chen Ao , Li Pei , Huang Zhaodong , Li Nan , Zhi Chunyi
Published: November 2023

Chlorine‐based batteries with Cl0 to Cl− redox reaction (ClRR) are promising for high‐performance energystorage due to their high redox potential and large theoretical capacity. However, the inherent gas–liquid conversion feature of ClRR together with poor Cl fixation can cause Cl2 leakage, reducing battery reversibility. Herein, we utilize a Se‐based organic molecule, diphenyl diselenide (di‐Ph‐Se), as the Cl anchoring agent and realize an atomic level‐Cl fixation through chalcogen‐halogencoordinating chemistry. The promoted Cl fixation, with two oxidized Cl0 anchoring on a single Ph‐Se, and the multivalence conversion of Se contributeto a six‐electron conversion process with up to 507 mAh g−1 and an average voltage of 1.51 V, as well as a high energy density of 665 Wh Kg−1. Based on the superior reversibility of thedeveloped di‐Ph‐Se electrode with ClRR, a remarkable rate performance (205 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1) and cycling performance (capacity retention of 77.3 % after 500cycles) are achieved. Significantly, the pouch cell delivers a record arealcapacity of up to 6.87 mAh cm−2 and extraordinary self‐discharge performance. This chalcogen‐halogen coordination chemistry between the Se electrode and Cl provides a new insight for developing reversible and efficientbatteries with halogen redox reactions.
PCNA as Protein‐Based Nanoruler for Sub‐10 nm Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Helmerich Dominic A. , Budiarta Made , Taban Danush , Doose Sören , Beliu Gerti , Sauer Markus
Published: November 2023

Super‐resolution microscopy has revolutionized biological imaging enabling direct insight into cellular structures and protein arrangements with so far unmatched spatial resolution. Today, refined single‐molecule localization microscopy methods achieve spatial resolutions in the one‐digit nanometer range. As the race for molecular resolution fluorescence imaging with visible light continues, reliable biologically compatible reference structures will become essential to validate the resolution power. Here, PicoRulers (protein‐based imaging calibration optical rulers), multilabeled oligomeric proteins designed as advanced molecular nanorulers for super‐resolution fluorescence imaging are introduced. Genetic code expansion (GCE) is used to site‐specifically incorporate three noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) into the homotrimeric proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) at 6 nm distances. Bioorthogonal click labeling with tetrazine‐dyes and tetrazine‐functionalized oligonucleotides allows efficient labeling of the PicoRuler with minimal linkage error. Time‐resolved photoswitching fingerprint analysis is used to demonstrate the successful synthesis and DNA‐based points accumulation for imaging in nanoscale topography (DNA‐PAINT) is used to resolve 6 nm PCNA PicoRulers. Since PicoRulers maintain their structural integrity under cellular conditions they represent ideal molecular nanorulers for benchmarking the performance of super‐resolution imaging techniques, particularly in complex biological environments.
Trace Water in Lead Iodide Affecting Perovskite Crystal Nucleation Limits the Performance of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Guo Renjun , Xiong Qiu , Ulatowski Aleksander , Li Saisai , Ding Zijin , Xiao Tianxiao , Liang Suzhe , Heger Julian E. , Guan Tianfu , Jiang Xinyu , Sun Kun , Reb Lennart K. , Reus Manuel A. , Chumakov Andrei , Schwartzkopf Matthias , Yuan Minjian , Hou Yi , Roth Stephan V. , Herz Laura M. , Gao Peng , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: November 2023

The experimental replicability of highly efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is a persistent challenge faced by laboratories worldwide. Although trace impurities in raw materials can impact the experimental reproducibility of high‐performance PSCs, the in situ study of how trace impurities affect perovskite film growth is never investigated. Here, light is shed on the impact of inevitable water contamination in lead iodide (PbI2) on the replicability of device performance, mainly depending on the synthesis methods of PbI2. Through synchrotron‐based structure characterization, it is uncovered that even slight additions of water to PbI2 accelerate the crystallization process in the perovskite layer during annealing. However, this accelerated crystallization also results in an imbalance of charge‐carrier mobilities, leading to a degradation in device performance and reduced longevity of the solar cells. It is also found that anhydrous PbI2 promotes a homogenous nucleation process and improves perovskite film growth. Finally, the PSCs achieve a remarkable certified power conversion efficiency of 24.3%. This breakthrough demonstrates the significance of understanding and precisely managing the water content in PbI2 to ensure the experimental replicability of high‐efficiency PSCs.
A Multi‐Scale Approach to Simulate the Nonlinear Optical Response of Molecular Nanomaterials
Authors: Zerulla Benedikt , Beutel Dominik , Holzer Christof , Fernandez‐Corbaton Ivan , Rockstuhl Carsten , Krstić Marjan
Published: November 2023

Nonlinear optics is essential for many recent photonic technologies. Here, a novel multi‐scale approach is introduced to simulate the nonlinear optical response of molecular nanomaterials combining ab initio quantum‐chemical and classical Maxwell‐scattering computations. In this approach, the first hyperpolarizability tensor is computed with time‐dependent density‐functional theory and incorporated into a multi‐scattering formalism that considers the optical interaction between neighboring molecules. Such incorporation is achieved by a novel object: the Hyper‐Transition(T)‐matrix. With this object at hand, the nonlinear optical response from single molecules and also from entire photonic devices can be computed, including the full tensorial and dispersive nature of the optical response of the molecules, as well as the optical interaction between different molecules as, for example, in the lattice of a molecular crystal. To demonstrate the applicability of the novel approach, the generation of a second‐harmonic signal from a thin film of an Urea molecular crystal is computed and compared to more traditional simulations. Furthermore, an optical cavity is designed, which enhances the second‐harmonic response of the molecular film up to more than two orders of magnitude. This approach is highly versatile and accurate and can be the working horse for the future exploration of nonlinear photonic molecular materials in structured photonic environments.
Nanoscale Confinement of Dip‐Pen Nanolithography Written Phospholipid Structures on CuZr Nanoglasses
Authors: Vasantham Srivatsan K. , Boltynjuk Evgeniy , Nandam Sree Harsha , Berganza Eguiarte Eider , Fuchs Harald , Hahn Horst , Hirtz Michael
Published: November 2023

Nanoglasses have attracted considerable interest among material scientists due to their novel and surprising properties. However, there is still a significant gap in understanding how nanoglasses interact with biomaterials and their effects on living cells. Previous cell studies have reported indications of possible proliferation effects, but a comprehensive understanding of differentiating nanoglass influences from distinct material or topography effects is yet to be established. In this study, the interaction between nanoglass surfaces and phospholipids, which are fundamental components of cell membranes, is investigated. The findings reveal a unique stabilizing effect exhibited by nanoglasses on structures created using lipid dip‐pen nanolithography, preventing their spreading over the surface (“confinement”). This discovery suggests that nanoglasses can potentially influence the structure of cell membranes, providing a conceivable mechanism for how nanoglasses may impact cell behavior.
Additively Manufactured Degradable Piezoelectric Microsystems for Sensing and Actuating
Authors: Monroe Morgan McKay , Fumeaux Nicolas , Villanueva Luis Guillermo , Briand Danick
Published: November 2023

The global overabundance of electronic waste and ever‐increasing concerns regarding the energy‐and material‐intensive manufacturing processes associated with traditional electronics are driving the development of solution‐processed, degradable electronics. Of note, the industry‐dominating prevalence of harmful lead‐based materials in sensing and actuating devices drives the push for more eco‐friendly solution‐processed piezoelectric systems. Yet current ecofriendly multi‐material printing processes are limited by both the conventional challenges of multilayer processes as well as the low‐temperature thermal constraints of biodegradable materials. Herein, a novel approach for fabricating fully printed, sustainable piezoelectric transducers on paper substrates is presented. Low‐temperature screen‐printing processes are used to integrate non‐toxic KNbO3 layers with degradable carbon‐ or zinc‐based conductive inks into devices. The influence of electrode material on device characteristics is assessed, with effective piezoelectric coefficients reported as high as 4.6 pC N−1 and 5.1 pC N−1 for devices with carbon and zinc electrodes respectively. The potential of the developed technology is then demonstrated through the first‐ever instance of fully printed piezoelectric force sensors and acoustic speakers comprised entirely of green materials. By demonstrating entirely printable green piezoelectric devices compatible with various electrode materials, this work serves as a step towards developing more complex sustainable piezoelectric technologies in the future.
The Nanosilver Imprinted Cross‐Channel Film used in Microfluidic Chips Based on Microcavity Resonator for Mercury Assessment
Authors: Wen Hsin‐Yi , Hsu Yi‐Ting
Published: November 2023

In this study, a highly sensitive optical probe is designed, fabricated, and evaluated that is composed of a microfluidic device integrated with a fiber optic sensor for environmental monitoring. The resonant cavity is coated with a metal ion‐responsive molecularly imprinted nanocomposite film and monitored by a single‐mode fiber (SMF) optic sensor. The resulting Fabry–Pérot cavity‐based optical probe can accurately measure Hg levels in water with high sensitivity and stability. The nanocomposite film is synthesized using a one‐pot reaction process involving sodium alginate (SA)‐reduced nanosilver particles (nanoAg) dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol (VA). When an aqueous solution containing mercury is injected into the microfluidic device, interactions between Ag and Hg at the nanoscale form a solid Ag‐Hg solid amalgam in the resonant cavity, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and the Fabry–Pérot effect can be exploited to detect the presence of Hg. The synthesis, fabrication, and measurement system of this integrated device is simple and cost effective. The developed sensing heavy metals in wastewater treatment, catalysis enhancement, and nanoscale toxicity assessment, and contributes practically to achieving the sustainable development goal (SDG) of access to safe drinking water.
Engineered Probiotic‐Based Personalized Cancer Vaccine Potentiates Antitumor Immunity through Initiating Trained Immunity
Authors: Chen Zhaoxia , Yong Tuying , Wei Zhaohan , Zhang Xiaoqiong , Li Xin , Qin Jiaqi , Li Jianye , Hu Jun , Yang Xiangliang , Gan Lu
Published: November 2023

Cancer vaccines hold great potential for clinical cancer treatment by eliciting T cell‐mediated immunity. However, the limited numbers of antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) at the injection sites, the insufficient tumor antigen phagocytosis by APCs, and the presence of a strong tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment severely compromise the efficacy of cancer vaccines. Trained innate immunity may promote tumor antigen‐specific adaptive immunity. Here, a personalized cancer vaccine is developed by engineering the inactivated probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 to load tumor antigens and β‐glucan, a trained immunity inducer. After subcutaneous injection, the cancer vaccine delivering model antigen OVA (BG/OVA@EcN) is highly accumulated and phagocytosed by macrophages at the injection sites to induce trained immunity. The trained macrophages may recruit dendritic cells (DCs) to facilitate BG/OVA@EcN phagocytosis and the subsequent DC maturation and T cell activation. In addition, BG/OVA@EcN remarkably enhances the circulating trained monocytes/macrophages, promoting differentiation into M1‐like macrophages in tumor tissues. BG/OVA@EcN generates strong prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy to inhibit tumor growth by inducing potent adaptive antitumor immunity and long‐term immune memory. Importantly, the cancer vaccine delivering autologous tumor antigens efficiently prevents postoperative tumor recurrence. This platform offers a facile translatable strategy to efficiently integrate trained immunity and adaptive immunity for personalized cancer immunotherapy.
Multifunctional Molecule‐Grafted V2C MXene as High‐Kinetics Potassium‐Ion‐Intercalation Anodes for Dual‐Ion Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Sabaghi Davood , Polčák Josef , Yang Hyejung , Li Xiaodong , Morag Ahiud , Li Dongqi , Nia Ali Shaygan , Khosravi H Saman , Šikola Tomáš , Feng Xinliang , Yu Minghao
Published: November 2023

Constructing dual‐ion energy storage devices using anion‐intercalation graphite cathodes offers the unique opportunity to simultaneously achieve high energy density and output power density. However, a critical challenge remains in the lack of proper anodes that match with graphite cathodes, particularly in sustainable electrolyte systems using abundant potassium. Here, a surface grafting approach utilizing multifunctional azobenzene sulfonic acid is reported, which transforms V2C MXene into a high‐kinetics K+‐intercalation anode (denoted ASA‐V2C) for dual‐ion energy storage devices. Importantly, the grafted azobenzene sulfonic acid offers extra K+‐storage centers and fast K+‐hopping sites, while concurrently acting as a buffer between V2C layers to mitigate the structural distortion during K+ intercalation/de‐intercalation. These functionalities enable the V2C electrode with significantly enhanced specific capacity (173.9 mAh g−1 vs 121.5 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1), rate capability (43.1% vs 12.0% at 20 A g−1), and cycling stability (80.3% vs 45.2% after 900 cycles at 0.05 A g−1). When coupled with an anion‐intercalation graphite cathode, the ASA‐V2C anode demonstrates its potential in a dual‐ion energy storage device. Notably, the device depicts a maximum energy density of 175 Wh kg−1 and a supercapacitor‐comparable power density of 6.5 kW kg−1, outperforming recently reported Li+‐, Na+‐, and K+‐based dual‐ion devices.
Heart rate fragmentation and brain MRI markers of small vessel disease in MESA
Authors: Heckbert Susan R. , Jensen Paul N. , Erus Guray , Nasrallah Ilya M. , Rashid Tanweer , Habes Mohamad , Austin Thomas R. , Floyd James S. , Schaich Christopher L. , Redline Susan , Bryan R. Nick , Costa Madalena D.
Published: November 2023

INTRODUCTION

Heart rate (HR) fragmentation indices quantify breakdown of HR regulation and are associated with atrial fibrillation and cognitive impairment. Their association with brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers of small vessel disease is unexplored.

METHODS

In 606 stroke‐free participants of the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (mean age 67), HR fragmentation indices including percentage of inflection points (PIP) were derived from sleep study recordings. We examined PIP in relation to white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volume, total white matter fractional anisotropy (FA), and microbleeds from 3‐Tesla brain MRI completed 7 years later.

RESULTS

In adjusted analyses, higher PIP was associated with greater WMH volume (14% per standard deviation [SD], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2, 27%, P = 0.02) and lower WM FA (–0.09 SD per SD, 95% CI: –0.16, –0.01, P = 0.03).

DISCUSSION

HR fragmentation was associated with small vessel disease. HR fragmentation can be measured automatically from ambulatory electrocardiogram devices and may be useful as a biomarker of vascular brain injury.