bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneous Integration of Complementary Field‐Effect Transistors for High‐Performance Micro LED Displays
Authors: Im Hwarim , Oh Joo‐On , Lee Yuseong , Jung Eun Kyo , Kim Eunho , Lee Junho , Kim Jimin , Naqi Muhammad , Kim Yong‐Sang , Kim Sunkook
Published: November 2024

This study investigates a micro light‐emitting diode (µLED) pixel circuit using the heterogeneous integration of complementary field‐effect transistors (CFETs). The CFETs are fabricated using a semiconductor layer composed of tellurium (Te) and indium‐gallium‐zinc oxide (IGZO) layers. Te and IGZO layers in the heterostructure IGZO/Te film exhibit hexagonal and amorphous phases, respectively, indicating that each layer maintains independent material characteristics. The fabricated IGZO/Te CFETs exhibit ambipolar behavior with a turn‐on voltage of 2.0 V and field‐effect mobility of 0.74 and 1.42 cm2 V−1 s−1 for p‐type and n‐type channels, respectively. Inverters comprising IGZO/Te CFET and IGZO TFT exhibit inverting behavior. A µLED pixel circuit is designed using IGZO/Te CFETs based on pulse width modulation (PWM). The proposed circuit uses an inverter structure with IGZO/Te and IGZO to control the emission time, suppressing the wavelength shift of µLEDs depending on the µLED current levels. The operation of the proposed pixel circuit is investigated through simulation and measurement of the fabricated circuit. The fabricated µLED pixel circuit successfully exhibits PWM operation, controlling the emission time and luminance. Consequently, IGZO/Te CFETs show promise as devices for high‐quality µLED displays.
Biomimetic Structural Hydrogels Reinforced by Gradient Twisted Plywood Architectures
Authors: Tang Yulu , Wu Bentao , Li Jie , Lu Canhui , Wu Jianing , Xiong Rui
Published: November 2024

Naturally structural hydrogels such as crustacean exoskeletons possess a remarkable combination of seemingly contradictory properties: high strength, modulus, and toughness coupled with exceptional fatigue resistance, owing to their hierarchical structures across multiple length scales. However, replicating these unique mechanical properties in synthetic hydrogels remains a significant challenge. This work presents a synergistic approach for constructing hierarchical structural hydrogels by employing cholesteric liquid crystal self‐assembly followed by nanocrystalline engineering. The resulting hydrogels exhibit a long‐range ordered gradient twisted plywood structure with high crystallinity to mimic the design of crustacean exoskeletons. Consequently, the structural hydrogels achieve an unprecedented combination of ultrahigh strength (46 ± 3 MPa), modulus (496 ± 25 MPa), and toughness (170 ± 14 MJ m−3), together with recorded high fatigue threshold (32.5 kJ m−2) and superior impact resistance (48 ± 2 kJ m−1). Additionally, through controlling geometry and compositional gradients of the hierarchical structures, a programmable shape morphing process allows for the fabrication of complex 3D hydrogels. This study not only offers valuable insights into advanced design strategies applicable to a broad range of promising hierarchical materials, but also pave the ways for load‐bearing applications in tissue engineering, wearable devices, and soft robotics.
Free‐Standing Ultrathin Films of 2D Perovskite for Light‐Emitting Devices Operating at Strong Coupling Regime
Authors: Łempicka‐Mirek Karolina , Król Mateusz , Mazur Rafał , Piecek Wiktor , Szczytko Jacek , Majewski Paweł W. , Piętka Barbara
Published: November 2024

A novel and cost‐effective method for producing free‐standing polyimide films that support a layer of 2D polycrystalline perovskite is presented. This flexible structure can be easily transferred to different substrates of various sizes and roughness, as demonstrated by depositing it on a small dielectric mirror. The experiments confirm that the presence of polyimide thin film does not affect the optical properties of the 2D perovskite, maintaining its integrity under both ambient and cryogenic conditions. Furthermore, the flexible 2D perovskite within an optical microcavity, achieving strong light‐matter coupling at room temperature is successfully embedded. The findings not only extend the frontiers of flexible optoelectronics but also emphasize its importance in improving high‐performance light‐emitting devices.
Visualizing the “Hidden” Triplet–Triplet Fusion Process to Fluorescence in Typical Organic/Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Lin Yulin , Luo Shi‐Hong , Li Chih‐Ting , Guo Tzung‐Fang
Published: November 2024

Fluorescence emission of a typical poly(9,9‐dialkylfluorene) derivative (PF Green B)‐based polymer light‐emitting diodes (PLEDs) clearly demonstrates that it partially involves the contribution of triplet excitons by the triplet–triplet fusion (TTF) process through measuring the magneto‐electroluminescence (MEL) responses of devices at different bias conditions and temperatures. The TTF process to fluorescence intrinsically correlates with the concentration, lifetime, and polaron quenching of triplet excitons, as modulated by different bias regimes and conditions. Varying the cathode configurations of PLEDs by an additional exciton blocking layer and cathode buffer layers in PLEDs, such as a thin layer of bathocuproine, tetractylammonium bromide, or poly(ethylene glycol) dimethyl ether with metal cathodes, changes the carrier dynamics and regulates the magnitude of TTF process to fluorescence. The performance of the devices has increased due to the enhanced TTF process in fluorescence, as characterized by the measurement of MEL responses. The results in this work unveil the “hidden” component of fluorescence emission, which originates from the fusion of triplet excitons to singlet excitons in typical PLEDs. The results elucidate that TTF of triplet excitons to fluorescence emission can be a practicable mechanism that contributes to enhancing the performance of devices.
Substrate‐Induced Maximum Optical Chirality of Planar Dielectric Structures
Authors: Gorkunov Maxim V. , Antonov Alexander A. , Mamonova Alena V. , Muljarov Egor A. , Kivshar Yuri
Published: November 2024

Resonant dielectric planar structures can interact selectively with light of particular helicity thus providing an attractive platform for chiral flat optics. The absence of mirror‐symmetry planes defines geometric chirality, and it remains the main condition for achieving strong circular dichroism. For planar optical structures such as photonic‐crystal slabs and metasurfaces, breaking the out‐of‐plane mirror symmetry is especially challenging, as it requires to fabricate meta‐atoms with a tilt, variable height, or vertically shifted positions. Although transparent substrates formally break out‐of‐plane mirror symmetries, their optical effect is typically subtle being rarely considered for enhancing optical chirality. Here it is revealed that low‐refractive‐index substrates can induce up to maximum intrinsic optical chirality in otherwise achiral metastructures so that the transparency to waves of one helicity is combined with resonant blocking of waves of the opposite helicity. This effect originates from engineering twisted photonic eigenstates of different parities. The perturbation analysis developed in terms of the resonant‐state expansion reveals how the eigenstate coupling induced by a substrate gives rise to a pair of chiral resonances of opposite handedness. The general theory is confirmed by the specific examples of light transmission in the normal and oblique directions by a rotation‐symmetric photonic‐crystal slab placed on different transparent substrates.
In Situ and Ex Situ Luminescence Investigation of Rare Earth Layered Double Hydroxides Intercalated with Mellitate Anion
Authors: Teotonio Ercules E. S. , Doungmo Giscard , Ströh Jonas , Mustafa Danilo , Costa Israel F. , Brito Hermi F. , Kotlov Aleksei , Terraschke Huayna
Published: November 2024

This work reports the preparation by co‐precipitation method of [Zn2Al0.95:Ln0.05(OH)6](HMA)0.21·(H2O)x, where x = 1.0–1.7 and Ln3+: Sm3+, Eu3+, Gd3+, Tb3+ and Dy3+, doped trivalent lanthanide ions (Ln3+) intercalated with mellitate (HMA5−) anions in the interlayer gallery. The results indicate that the Ln3+ ions and the organic anion are effectively introduced into the material without significantly losing the structural properties of the layered double hydroxydes (LDH). In situ measurements reveal slight changes in the luminescent properties assigned to the nucleation and growth processes of the LDH. Ex situ experiments show that the photophysical properties also changed after the drying process, indicating significant interactions of the mellitate anion in the materials. LDH‐HMA:Eu3+ and LDH‐HMA:Tb3+ exhibit high luminescence intensity in the red and green spectral regions due to the 5D0→7F0‐6 and 5D4→7F6‐0 transitions, respectively. The LDH‐HMA doped with different ratios Eu3+/Tb3+ presenting emission colors from red to green are also investigated. Surprisingly, the unexpected afterglow blue luminescence from the LDH‐HMA doped with Gd3+ ion is ascribed to the phosphorescence T→S0 transition. Finally, obtaining three red, green and blue luminophores based on the same type of material represents an effective strategy toward white‐light emission realized by mixing three different LDHs materials based on Ln3+ ions.
Ultrasensitive Photodetection and Metal‐Semiconductor Transition in Bi2S3 Phototransistor
Authors: Yang Yujue , Pan Zhidong , Liu Xueting , Dong Huafeng , Zhang Xin , Wu Fugen , Huo Nengjie
Published: November 2024

Bismuth sulfide (Bi2S3) single crystal shows a great advantage of the direct band gap, high photo‐absorption, and non‐toxic elements. The ideal prerequisites for ultrasensitive photodetector is low noise and high gain, which are however not simultaneously present in existing Bi2S3 photodetectors. Herein, a three‐terminal phototransistor based on Bi2S3 flakes, achieving both low noise and high photo‐gain for ultrasensitive photodetection capability is developed. By applying negative gate voltage, the Bi2S3 channel is depleted, leading to a low noise spectral density of 3.3 × 10−12 A Hz−1/2. Leveraging the photo‐gating effect, a high photo‐gain of ≈108 is also yielded. These two factors have led to a high responsivity of 3 × 108 A/W and high detectivity up to 1.6 × 1015 Jones at 635 nm, which have surpassed that in commercial and newly emerging photodetectors. Through the temperature‐dependent electrical transport and photo‐response measurement, the phototransistor demonstrates an interesting metal‐semiconductor transition due to the strong electron‐electron interactions by applying positive gate voltage for high levels of electron doping. A suppressed hysteresis and persistent photoconductivity are observed at low temperatures, suggestive of the existence of trap states. This work develops the Bi2S3 photo‐transistor with ultrasensitive photodetection and metal‐semiconductor transition, providing a promising system for strong correlation effects and photodetector applications.
Unveiling the Geometric Site Dependence of Co‐Based Spinel Oxides in the Halogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Chen Chen , Liu Tingting , Pu Zonghua , Chen Zhangsen , Zhang Xiaofeng , Huang Qiufeng , Al‐Enizi Abdullah M. , Nafady Ayman , Zhang Gaixia , Sun Shuhui
Published: November 2024

Cobalt‐based spinel oxides, such as Co3O4, have emerged as promising electrocatalysts for chlorine and bromine evolution reactions (CER and BrER) in recent years. However, the role of Co valence in determining the exceptional performance of Co3O4 for both CER and BrER remains ambiguous due to the coexistence of both octahedrally coordinated Co3+ (Co3+Oh) and tetrahedrally coordinated Co2+ (Co2+Td) sites, despite their high catalytic activity and stability. Herein, combining experiment results and electrochemical data analysis, the Co3+Oh site functions as the primary active site for CER is demonstrated. In contrast, for BrER, both Co3+Oh and Co2+Td sites exhibit good catalytic activity, with Co3+Oh sites displaying better BrER catalytic performance than Co2+Td sites. To further enhance the CER catalytic activity of the Co3+Oh site, inert Co2+Td is replaced with Cu2+ cations. As expected, CuCo2O4 featuring an optimized Co3+Oh site demonstrates an overpotential of 24 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 while exhibiting exceptional stability for ≈60 h, surpassing the performance of the majority of non‐noble and even noble metal‐based electrocatalysts reported to date. Therefore, the study elucidates the significance of geometric configuration‐dependent activity in electrocatalytic halogen evolution reactions.
High‐Performance Alkaline Battery‐Supercapacitor Hybrid Based on Bimetallic Phosphide/Phosphate
Authors: Singh Man , Thakur Neha , Nagaiah Tharamani C.
Published: November 2024

Transition metal‐based materials explored for energy storage applications viz. batteries, supercapacitors and more recently battery‐supercapacitor hybrids (BSHs) abundantly involve Co‐based materials. However, the supply chain issues and low electronic conductivity force us to look for alternative options. In this regard, Co‐free binary metal phosphide/phosphate consisting of Ni and V metal (NiVP/Pi) microspheres as the positive electrode of BSH which shows a high specific capacity of 502 C g−1 (1004 F g−1) at 2 mV s−1 while retaining a high specific capacity of 214 C g−1 (428 F g−1) at 12 A g−1 is reported. The high electronic conductivity of binary metal phosphide in NiVP/Pi electrode and the rich electrochemical active sites due to Ni and V metal centres results in exciting performance. More interestingly, the hybrid device is successfully developed by employing NiVP/Pi as the positive electrode and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as the negative electrode. The hybrid device (NiVP/Pi//CNT) is able to achieve a maximum energy density of 22.17 Wh kg−1 and a power density of 5 kW kg−1 with 91.7% capacitance retention after 7500 continuous galvanostatic charge–discharge cycles.
Very Low‐Intensity Ultrasound Facilitates Glymphatic Influx and Clearance via Modulation of the TRPV4‐AQP4 Pathway
Authors: Wu Chueh‐Hung , Liao Wei‐Hao , Chu Ya‐Cherng , Hsiao Ming‐Yen , Kung Yi , Wang Jaw‐Lin , Chen Wen‐Shiang
Published: November 2024

Recently, the glymphatic system has been proposed as a mechanism for waste clearance from the brain parenchyma. Glymphatic dysfunction has previously been shown to be associated with several neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, traumatic brain injury, and stroke. As such, it may serve as an important target for therapeutic interventions. In the present study, very low‐intensity ultrasound (VLIUS) (center frequency, 1 MHz; pulse repetition frequency, 1 kHz; duty factor, 1%; spatial peak temporal average intensity [Ispta] = 3.68 mW cm2; and duration, 5 min) is found to significantly enhance the influx of cerebrospinal fluid tracers into the paravascular spaces of the brain, and further facilitate interstitial substance clearance from the brain parenchyma, including exogenous β‐amyloid. Notably, no evidence of brain damage is observed following VLIUS stimulation. VLIUS may enhance glymphatic influx via the transient receptor potential vanilloid‐4‐aquaporin‐4 pathway in astrocytes. This mechanism may provide insights into VLIUS‐regulated glymphatic function that modifies the natural course of central nervous system disorders related to waste clearance dysfunction.
Aloe Emodin Alleviates Radiation‐Induced Heart Disease via Blocking P4HB Lactylation and Mitigating Kynurenine Metabolic Disruption
Authors: Ouyang Fan , Li Yaling , Wang Haoming , Liu Xiangyang , Tan Xiaoli , Xie Genyuan , Zeng Junfa , Zeng Gaofeng , Luo Qiong , Zhou Hong , Chen Siming , Hou Kai , Fang Jinren , Zhang Xia , Zhou Linlin , Li Yukun , Gao Anbo
Published: November 2024

Aloe emodin is an anthraquinone of traditional Chinese medicine monomer, which plays a protective action in cardiovascular diseases. However, the regulatory mechanisms of aloe emodin in the protection of radiation‐induced heart damage (RIHD) are unclear. As a novel post‐translational modification, lactylation is considered as a critical mediator in inflammatory cascade and cardiac injury. Here, using a cross of differential omics and 4D label‐free lactylation omics, protein disulfide‐isomerase (P4HB) is identified as a novel target for lactylation, and aloe emodin inhibits the binding of lactate to the K311 site of P4HB. Aloe emodin stabilizes kynurenine metabolism through inhibition of aspartate aminotransferase (GOT2) accumulation on damaged mitochondria. Mechanistically, aloe emodin inhibits phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase 3B (p‐GSK3B) transcription in the nucleus to repress the interaction of prostaglandin G/H synthase 2 (PTGS2) with SH3 domain of SH3 domain‐containing GRB2‐like protein B1 (SH3GLB1), thereby disrupting the functions of mitochondrial complexes and reducing SH3GLB1‐mediated mitoROS accumulation, eventually suppressing calcium‐binding and coiled‐coil domain‐containing protein 2 (NDP52)‐induced mitophagy. This study unveils the regulatory role of aloe emodin in RIHD alleviation through PTGS2/SH3GLB1/NDP52 axis, indicates aloe emodin stabilizes GOT2‐mediated kynurenine metabolism through P4HB lactylation. Collectively, this study provides novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms underlying the protective role of aloe emodin in cardiac injury, and opens new avenues for therapeutic strategies of aloe emodin in preventing RIHD by regulating lactylation.
Polarity‐Reversal of Exchange Bias in van der Waals FePS3/Fe3GaTe2 Heterostructures
Authors: Xiao Han , Lyu Bingbing , Mi Mengjuan , Yuan Jian , Zhang Xiandong , Yu Lixuan , Cui Qihui , Wang Chaofan , Song Jun , Huang Mingyuan , Tian Yufeng , Liu Liang , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Liu Min , Guo Yanfeng , Wang Shanpeng , Wang Yilin
Published: November 2024

Exchange bias (EB) in antiferromagnetic (AFM)/ferromagnetic heterostructures is crucial for the advancement of spintronic devices and has attracted significant attention. The common EB effect in van der Waals heterostructures features a low blocking temperature (Tb) and a single polarity. In this work, a significant EB effect with a Tb up to 150 K is observed in FePS3/Fe3GaTe2 heterostructures, and in particular, the EB exhibits an unusual temperature‐dependent polarity‐reversal behavior. Under a high positive field‐cooling condition (e.g., μ0H ≥ 0.5 T), a negative EB field (HEB) is observed at low temperatures, and with increasing temperature, the HEB crosses zero at ≈20 K, subsequently becomes positive and later approaches zero again at Tb. A model composed of a top FePS3/interfacial FePS3/Fe3GaTe2 sandwich structure is proposed. The charge transfer from Fe3GaTe2 to FePS3 at the interface induces net magnetic moments (∆M) in FePS3. The interface favors AFM coupling, and thus the reversal of ∆M of the interfacial FePS3 leads to the polarity‐reversal of EB. Moreover, the EB can be extended to the bare Fe3GaTe2 region of the Fe3GaTe2 flake partially covered by FePS3. This work provides opportunities for a deeper understanding of the EB effect and opens a new route toward constructing novel spintronic devices.
Superconductivity in Ternary Mg4Pd7As6
Authors: Świątek Hanna , Gutowska Sylwia , Winiarski Michał J. , Wiendlocha Bartlomiej , Klimczuk Tomasz
Published: November 2024

The synthesis and characterization of a new compound Mg4Pd7As6, which is found to be a superconductor with Tc = 5.45 K is reported. Powder X‐ray diffraction confirms the U4Re7Si6 structure (space group Im‐3m, no. 229) with the lattice parameter a = 8.2572(1) Å. Magnetization, specific heat, and electrical resistivity measurements indicate that it is a moderate‐coupling (λ = 0.72) type‐II superconductor. The electronic and phonon structures are calculated, highlighting the importance of antibonding Pd–As interactions in determining the properties of this material. The calculated electron–phonon coupling parameter λ = 0.76 agrees very well with the experimental finding, which confirms the conventional pairing mechanism in Mg4Pd7As6.
Effects of Charge Imbalance on Field‐Induced Instability of HfO2‐Based Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions
Authors: Shin Wonjun , Han Chang‐Hyeon , Kim Jangsaeng , Koo Ryun‐Han , Min Kyung Kyu , Kwon Daewoong
Published: November 2024

Ferroelectricity in hafnium‐based materials has attracted significant research attention and is used in various applications owing to their complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor compatibility, scalability, and low‐power operation. However, their widespread integration into various technologies is hindered by reliability and stability problems, particularly field‐induced instability, which causes fluctuations in polarization characteristics during operation. Herein, on the underlying mechanism of field‐induced instability is reported in pure hafnium oxide films within metal‐ferroelectric‐insulator‐semiconductor (MFIS) ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJs). The comprehensive material analysis combined with low‐frequency noise (LFN) measurements reveals that the presence of oxygen vacancies and interface traps within the ferroelectric and dielectric layers induces a charge imbalance in the FTJ, leading to distortion in its polarization characteristics and the onset of cyclic evolution in field‐induced instability. Furthermore, high‐pressure annealing effectively mitigates field‐induced instability by reducing the defects within the film, thereby alleviating the associated charge imbalance. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the internal dynamics of FTJs and provide an efficient approach to enhancing their stability.
Strain Fluctuations Unlock Ferroelectricity in Wurtzites
Authors: Baksa Steven M. , Gelin Simon , Oturak Seda , Spurling R. Jackson , Sepehrinezhad Alireza , Jacques Leonard , Trolier‐McKinstry Susan E. , van Duin Adri C. T. , Maria Jon‐Paul , Rappe Andrew M. , Dabo Ismaila
Published: November 2024

Ferroelectrics are of practical interest for non‐volatile data storage due to their reorientable, crystallographically defined polarization. Yet efforts to integrate conventional ferroelectrics into ultrathin memories have been frustrated by film‐thickness limitations, which impede polarization reversal under low applied voltage. Wurtzite materials, including magnesium‐substituted zinc oxide (Zn,Mg)O, have been shown to exhibit scalable ferroelectricity as thin films. In this work, the origins of ferroelectricity in (Zn,Mg)O are explained, showing that large strain fluctuations emerge locally in (Zn,Mg)O and can reduce local barriers to ferroelectric switching by more than 40%. Concurrent experimental and computational evidence of these effects are provided by demonstrating polarization switching in ZnO/(Zn,Mg)O/ZnO heterostructures featuring built‐in interfacial strain gradients. These results open up an avenue to develop scalable ferroelectrics by controlling strain fluctuations atomistically.
In2Se3 Synthesized by the FWF Method for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Shin Jaeho , Jang Jingon , Choi Chi Hun , Kim Jaegyu , Eddy Lucas , Scotland Phelecia , Martin Lane W. , Han Yimo , Tour James M.
Published: November 2024

The development of next‐generation in‐memory and neuromorphic computing can be realized with memory transistors based on 2D ferroelectric semiconductors. Among these, In2Se3 is the interesting since it possesses ferroelectricity in 2D quintuple layers. Synthesis of large amounts of In2Se3 crystals with the desired phase, however, has not been previously achieved. Here, the gram‐scale synthesis of α‐In2Se3 crystals using a flash‐within‐flash Joule heating method is demonstrated. This approach allows the synthesis of single‐phase α‐In2Se3 crystals regardless of the conductance of precursors in the inner tube and enables the synthesis of gram‐scale quantities of α‐In2Se3 crystals. Then, α‐In2Se3 flakes are fabricated and used as a 2D ferroelectric semiconductor FET artificial synaptic device platform. By modulating the degree of polarization in α‐In2Se3 flakes according to the gate electrical pulses, these devices exhibit distinct essential synaptic behaviors. Their synaptic performance shows excellent and robust reliability under repeated electrical pulses. Finally, it is demonstrated that the synaptic devices achieve an estimated learning accuracy of up to ≈87% for Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology patterns in a single‐layer neural network system.
Wide‐Spectrum Nano‐Antibiotics Based on TPA‐Py@AuNCs⊂BSA for Multimodal Synergistic Therapy of Drug‐Resistant Bacteria and Wound Infections
Authors: Xu Feng‐Rui , Zhang Guo‐Ling , Zhang Kai , Chen Pu , Wang Qianqian , Pan Yuezhe , Tang Ben Zhong , Feng Hai‐Tao
Published: November 2024

To meet the high requirements of biomedical applications in antimicrobial agents, it is crucial to explore efficient nano‐antimicrobial agents with no resistance and good biocompatibility for treating infected wounds. In this study, composite nano‐antibiotic TPA‐Py@AuNCs⊂BSA nanoparticles (TAB NPs) are prepared using hollow mesoporous Au nanocages (AuNCs) loaded with a photosensitizer (namely TPA‐Py) with D‐π‐A structure showing aggregation‐induced emission properties. When TPA‐Py is encapsulated in the cavity of AuNCs, its fluorescence is suppressed. In the presence of photothermal induction, TPA‐Py can be released from the AuNCs, allowing for the restoration of fluorescence illumination and the specific imaging of Gram‐positive bacteria. TAB NPs demonstrate outstanding antimicrobial activity against a variety of bacteria, and this multimodal antimicrobial property does not lead to the development of bacterial resistance. In vitro experiments show that TAB NPs could eliminate bacteria and ablate bacterial biofilm. In vivo experiments show that the synergistic antimicrobial effect of TAB NPs has a significant positive impact on the treatment of infected wounds, including rapid antibacterial action, promotion of M2 macrophage polarization, and enhancement of chronic wound healing. This study provides an effective strategy for developing wide‐spectrum nano‐antibiotics for the ablation of bacterial biofilms and the treatment of infected wounds.
The Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Waist and Hip Circumference and Selected Indicators Related to It Among Adolescents From the Kraków (Poland) Population
Authors: Artymiak Paulina , Żegleń Magdalena , Kryst Łukasz
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess changes in waist and hip circumference, as well as the waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR) indices among adolescents (11–15‐year‐olds) from the Kraków during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Cross‐sectional studies were conducted in four main districts of the city in the years 2020 and 2022. The study group consisted of 1662 people. Measurements of height, waist circumference, and hip circumference were taken. The collected data were used to calculate the WHR and WHtR indices. Statistical analyses were performed using two‐way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's test, as well as the Kruskal–Wallis test, depending on the normality of distribution.

Results

An increase in hip circumference was observed in most age groups of both sexes. Among 14–15‐year‐old boys, an increase in waist circumference was observed, while among girls, the majority of cohorts showed the opposite trend. Additionally, in most age groups, a decrease in the values of WHR and WHtR indices was observed in both sexes, except for boys aged 14–15.

Conclusion

The study found that government‐imposed restrictions related to the COVID‐19 pandemic had an impact on waist circumference, hip circumference, WHR, and WHtR indicators among adolescents aged 11–15 from Kraków. While some results showed regression, suggesting potential factors such as reduced physical activity or increased screen time contributing to deteriorating outcomes. On the other hand, not all results changed, which may be attributed to the absence of modifications in dietary habits or physical activity as government restrictions ceased.
Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome in Patients Affected by Jansen–de Vries Syndrome: Results From an International Survey
Authors: Pizzol A. , Adams K. A. , de Vries B. B. A. , Curry C. J. , Calvo P. L.
Published: November 2024

Jansen–de Vries syndrome (JdVS) is an autosomal dominant neurodevelopmental disorder with intellectual disability and gastrointestinal (GI) abnormalities, including recurrent vomiting. This study aimed to understand the frequency and severity of GI symptoms in JdVS patients and to investigate the potential association with cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS), which has not been previously reported. An international online survey assessed the prevalence and features of CVS and GI disorders in JdVS patients using Rome IV Criteria. The anonymous survey was conducted via Google Forms in April 2021. A total of 21 patients/guardians responded to the survey. The average age at JdVS diagnosis was 8.22 years (range: 1–42). Of the respondents, 6 (28.5%) had a CVS diagnosis, 5 (23.8%) had migraine, and 2 (9.5%) had abdominal migraine. Additionally, 8 (38%) had gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and 8 (38%) had functional constipation. An analysis targeted questions showed that 7 (33%) met the Rome IV Criteria for CVS but were undiagnosed, leading to a CVS prevalence of 61% in this cohort. This study highlights a high prevalence of CVS in JdVS patients and underscores the need for increased awareness and accurate diagnosis to address misdiagnosis.
Modulating Interfacial Solvation via Ion Dipole Interactions for Low‐Temperature and High‐Voltage Lithium Batteries
Authors: Liang Ping , Li Jinhan , Dong Yang , Wang Zhaodong , Ding Guoyu , Liu Kuiming , Xue Linlin , Cheng Fangyi
Published: November 2024

Extending the stability of ether solvents is pivotal for developing low‐temperature and high‐voltage lithium batteries. Herein, we elucidate the oxidation behavior of tetrahydrofuran with ternary BF4−, PF6− and difluoro (oxalato) borate anions and the evolution of interfacial solvation environment. Combined in situ analyses and computations illustrate that the ion dipole interactions and the subsequent formation of ether‐Li+‐anion complexes in electrolyte rearrange the oxidation order of solvated species, which enhances the electrochemical stability of ether solvent. Furthermore, preferential absorption of anions on the surface of high‐voltage cathode favors the formation of a solvent‐deficient electric double layer and an anti‐oxidation cathode electrolyte interphase, inhibiting the decomposition of tetrahydrofuran. Remarkably, the formulated electrolyte based on ternary anion and tetrahydrofuran solvent endows the LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode with considerable rate capability of 5.0 C and high capacity retention of 93.12 % after 200 cycles. At a charging voltage of 4.5 V, the Li||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cells deliver Coulombic efficiency above 99 % at both 25 and −30 °C.
Programming the Dynamic Range of Nanochannel Biosensors for MicroRNA Detection Through Allosteric DNA Probes
Authors: Shang Zhiwei , Ding Defang , Deng Zixuan , Zhao Jing , Yang Mengyu , Xiao Yuling , Chu Wenjing , Xu Shijun , Zhang Zhicheng , Yi Xiaoqing , Lin Meihua , Xia Fan
Published: November 2024

Solid‐state nanochannel biosensors are extensively utilized for microRNA (miRNA) detection owing to their high sensitivity and rapid response. However, conventional nanochannel biosensors face limitations in their fixed dynamic range, restricting their versatility and efficacy. Herein, we introduce tunable triblock DNA probes with varying affinities for target miRNA to engineer solid‐state nanochannel biosensors capable of customizable dynamic range adjustment. The triblock DNA architecture comprises a poly‐adenine (polyA) block for adjustable surface density anchoring, alongside stem and loop blocks for modulating structural stability. Through systematic manipulation of these blocks, we demonstrate the ability to achieve diverse target binding affinities and detection limits, achieving an initial 81‐fold dynamic range. By combining probes with various affinities, we extend this dynamic range significantly to 10,900‐fold. Furthermore, by implementing a sequestration mechanism, the effective dynamic range of the nanochannel biosensor is narrowed to only a 3‐fold span of target concentrations. The customizable dynamic range of these advanced nanochannel biosensors makes them highly promising for a broad spectrum of biomedical and clinical applications.
Dication Disulfuranes as Photoactivatable Sources of Radical Organocatalysts
Authors: Song Kun‐Long , Meyrelles Ricardo , Pilet Guillaume , Maryasin Boris , Médebielle Maurice , Merad Jérémy
Published: November 2024

The recent development of photoredox and energy transfer catalysis has led to a significant expansion of visible‐light‐driven chemical transformations. These methods have demonstrated exceptional efficiency in converting a wide range of substrates into radical intermediates and generating open‐shell catalytic species. However, the simplification of catalytic systems and the direct generation of highly reactive radical organocatalysts through direct visible‐light irradiation from stable precatalysts remains largely an unrealized goal. This challenge is mainly due to the limited availability of precatalysts that are responsive to visible light. Herein, we introduce a new class of bench‐stable dicationic disulfuranes, which release highly reactive thiyl radicals upon blue‐light excitation. Spectroscopic and computational studies reveal that this reactivity arises from a combination of structural features and intermolecular interactions. This family of molecules has been employed to catalyze radical cascades previously incompatible with photoredox conditions, enabling the efficient formation of 1,2‐dioxolanes and 1,3‐hydroxyketones in excellent yields and short reaction times.
A Novel Mn‐MOF Sensitive Detection of Antibiotic Difloxacin Hydrochloride in Water
Authors: Wang Xiaomei , Pan Jiajun , Quan Yue , Liu Lanqing , Yang Tao , Zhou Xinhui , You Yujian , Xiao Hongping
Published: November 2024

Antibiotic pollution in hydrophytic ecosystems has aroused widespread notice due to its adverse impact on both the ecological environment and human physical well‐being. Thus, the development of effective antibiotic detection materials is not only urgently needed but is also challenging. Herein, the luminescent metal–organic framework [Mn3/2(HBCTC)·5H2O] (1) was successfully synthesized based on [9,9′‐bicarbazole]‐3,3′,6,6′‐tetracarboxylic acid (H4BCTC) under solvothermal conditions. Compound 1 can be employed as a fluorescent probe to detect antibiotic difloxacin hydrochloride (DIF) in water, demonstrating a remarkable linear relationship between fluorescence intensity ratio I0/I and the concentration of DIF (0–40 μM), with Ksv of 79,405 M−1 and LOD of 114 nM. More importantly, 1 represents the first fluorescent sensing material based on MOF for the detection of DIF, exhibiting exceptional selectivity, sensitivity, and anti‐interference capability. Furthermore, the mechanism of fluorescence quenching was studied comprehensively.
Characterization of Genetic Landscape and Novel Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients With Adult‐Onset Still's Disease
Authors: Topping Joanne , Chang Leon , Nadat Fatima , Poulter James A. , Ibbotson Alice , Lara‐Reyna Samuel , Watson Christopher M. , Carter Clive , Pournara Linda P. , Zernicke Jan , Ross Rebecca L. , Cargo Catherine , Lyons Paul A. , Smith Kenneth G. C. , Del Galdo Francesco , Rech Jürgen , Fautrel Bruno , Feist Eugen , McDermott Michael F. , Savic Sinisa ,   the ImmunAID Consortium
Published: November 2024

Objective

Adult‐onset Still disease (AOSD) is a systemic autoinflammatory disorder (AID) of unknown etiology. Genetic studies have been limited. Here, we conducted detailed genetic and inflammatory biomarker analysis of a large cohort with AOSD to investigate the underlying pathology and identify novel targets for potential treatment.

Methods

We investigated AOSD cases (n = 60) for rare germline and somatic variants using whole exome sequencing with virtual gene panels. Transcriptome profiles were investigated by bulk RNA sequencing whole blood. Cytokine profiling was performed on an extended patient cohort (n = 106) alongside measurements of NLRP3 inflammasome activation using a custom assay and type I interferon (IFN) score using a novel method.

Results

We observed higher than expected frequencies of rare germline variants associated with monogenic AIDs in AOSD cases (AOSD 38.4% vs healthy controls [HCs] 20.4%) and earlier onset of putative somatic variants associated with clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential. Transcriptome profiling revealed a positive correlation between Still Activity Score and gene expression associated with the innate immune system. ASC/NLRP3 specks levels and type I IFN scores were significantly elevated in AOSD cases compared with HCs (P = 0.0001 and 0.0015, respectively), in addition to several cytokines: interleukin (IL)‐6 (P < 0.0001), IL‐10 (P < 0.0075), IL‐12p70 (P = 0.0005), IL‐18 (P < 0.0001), IL‐23 (P < 0.0001), IFN‐α2 (P = 0.0009), and IFNγ (P = 0.0002).

Conclusion

Our study shows considerable genetic complexity within AOSD and demonstrates the potential utility of the ASC/NLRP3 specks assay for disease stratification and targeted treatment. The enriched genetic variants identified may not by themselves be sufficient to cause disease, but may contribute to a polygenic model for AOSD.
Absorption, Fluorescence, and Two‐Photon Excitation Ability of 5‐o‐Tolyl‐11 (or 13)‐o‐tolylisoindolo[2,1‐a]quinolines Prepared by Ring‐Closing Metathesis and [2+3] Cycloaddition
Authors: Wada Yuki , Jang Kwangkyun , Ishii Hirokazu , Watakabe Yuki , Tsutsumi Motosuke , Sako Makoto , Takehara Tsunayoshi , Suzuki Takeyuki , Tsujino Hirofumi , Tsutsumi Yasuo , Nemoto Tomomi , Arisawa Mitsuhiro
Published: November 2024

We have successfully improved the fluorescence quantum yield of isoindolo[2,1‐a]quinoline derivatives by suppressing the rotation of the phenyl groups at positions 5 and 11 (or 13). Additionally, we found that the planarity of these phenyl groups at positions 5 and 11 (or 13) of isoindolo[2,1‐a]quinoline derivatives is crucial for two‐photon absorption properties.
Elucidating the anticancerous efficacy of genistein via modulating HPV (E7 and E6) oncogenes expression and apoptotic induction in cervical cancer cells
Authors: Pandey Pratibha , Ramniwas Seema , Pandey Shivam , Lakhanpal Sorabh , Ballal Suhas , Kumar Sanjay , Bhat Mahakshit , Sharma Shilpa , Kumar M. Ravi , Khan Fahad
Published: November 2024

In recent years, genistein has garnered increased interest for its ability to inhibit numerous deregulated targets associated with cancer progression and induction of programmed cell death and antiproliferative activities in human carcinoma cells. Cancer etiology is influenced via multiple disrupted signaling pathways. This study therefore directed toward investigating genistein efficacy in modulating mRNA expression levels of two crucial Human Pappiloma Virus (HPV) (E7 and E6) oncogenes for cancer treatment. Moreover, the inhibitory effects of genistein for HPV (E7 and E6) oncogenes in cervical carcinoma have not yet been reported. Current study investigated inhibitory potential of genistein in HPV (E7 and E6) oncogenes in HeLa cells. These oncogenes are known to deactivate many tumor suppressor proteins (p53 and pRB). Genistein therapy resulted in decreased cell proliferation and increased cell accumulation in the G (G0/G1) phase in HeLa cell lines. In addition, genistein therapy has resulted in the suppression of HPV (E7 and E6) gene expression and simultaneously increasing expression levels of p53 and pRB mRNA levels. As a consequence, there has been an activation of a series of caspases (3, 8, and 9), resulting in their cleavage. Consequently, our data suggests that genistein could be a powerful candidate for treating cervical cancer by targeting two important oncogenes involved in viral development. However, more in vitro research on primary cervical cancer cells is required to validate the clinically relevant efficacy of genistein against cervical cancer.
Designer Fluorescent Redoxmer Self‐Reports Side Reactions in Nonaqueous Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Robertson Lily A. , Shkrob Ilya A. , Li Zhiguang , Agarwal Garvit , Yu Zhou , Assary Rajeev S. , Cheng Lei , Zhang Lu , Zhang Zhengcheng
Published: November 2024

The state of health (SOH) is a critical measure for evaluating and predicting performance of redox flow batteries (RFBs). However, diagnosing SOH of RFBs is often challenging due to the overwhelming complexity of the electrolytes and associated electrochemical reactions. Designing active molecules or redoxmers that can autonomously exhibit property changes upon specific stimuli may provide a viable way for early diagnosis of SOH. Herein, a dimerized redoxmer, DGL‐N‐CH3, was designed and synthesized by linking blue‐green fluorescent monomers through a diglycolamide linker. While DGL‐N‐CH3 still maintains similar electrochemical behavior and strong fluorescence, we observe a unique side reaction when cycling DGL‐N‐CH3 in H‐cells, which leads to a side product, NHCH3‐BzNSN via linker cleavage. Interestingly, NHCH3‐BzNSN also emits fluorescence but at a longer wavelength. By taking advantage of this unique fluorescent change that corresponds to the growth of NHCH3‐BzNSN, we successfully established the capacity decay of DGL‐N‐CH3 H‐cell cycling, exemplifying a proof‐of‐concept self‐reporting redoxmer design towards in situ SOH monitoring.
Urea‐Loaded PLGA Microspheres as Chemotaxis Stimulants for Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Shanmughan Prasanth , Subrahmaniyan Pravin , Bhatnagar Dhruv , Ranganathan Srinithi , Lele Pushkar P.
Published: November 2024

Helicobacter pylori cells undergo chemotaxis toward several small molecules, called chemo‐attractants, including urea produced by the epithelial cells of the stomach. The biophysical mechanisms of chemotaxis are not well understood in H. pylori. Here, we developed point sources of urea by encapsulating it in Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) or PLGA microbeads for H. pylori chemotaxis studies. Microscopy and Dynamic Light Scattering characterization indicated that the PLGA particles had an average diameter of < 0.8 μm. The particles were relatively stable and had a net negative surface charge. Absorbance measurements indicated that the beads released ~70% of the urea over a 2‐week period, with most of the release occurring within the first 24‐h period. Varying pH (2.0–7.0) had little effect on the rate of urea release. A diffusion model predicted that such beads could generate sufficient urea gradients to chemotactically attract H. pylori cells. Single‐bead single‐cell chemotaxis assays confirmed the predictions, revealing that H. pylori continued to be attracted to beads even after most of the urea had been released in the first 24 h. Our work highlights a novel use of PLGA microbeads as delivery vehicles for stimulating a chemotaxis response in H. pylori, with potential applications in bacterial eradication strategies.
Association of depression with longitudinal changes in brain structure across the lifespan: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Zheng , Sui Guanghong , Yang Caixia , Lv Zongshun , Wang Feng
Published: November 2024

Understanding the impact of depression on brain aging benefits the prognosis of this disease and of the risk that other age‐related brain disorders will develop in the same population. The aim of the present study was to explore the genetic effect of depression on longitudinal changes in brain structure throughout the lifespan using a Mendelian randomization approach. Summary data from a genome‐wide association study of 195,321 to 377,277 participants in the FinnGen consortium were used to predict depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and antidepressant use genetically. Data from 15,640 participants in the ENIGMA consortium were included to predict changes in 15 brain structures throughout the lifespan. The causal relationship between these depressive traits and the brain structure parameters was assessed by two‐sample Mendelian randomization (including inverse‐variance weighted). Sensitivity analyses were conducted for quality control. Depression slowed the decrease of cortical gray matter volume significantly throughout the lifespan (p = 0.001). Depression, anxiety, and mood disorders nominally decreased the rates of change of volume in the cerebellum gray matter, lateral ventricles, and cortical gray matter throughout the lifespan (p = 0.048, p = 0.021, p = 0.038, respectively). Antidepressants did not affect these rates of change significantly (p > 0.05). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the reliability of this study. Depression and its main symptoms have a slight effect on longitudinal changes in a few brain structures throughout the lifespan at the genetic level. These findings do not support the notion that depression affects macro‐aging in the brain crucially.
A Multicenter Cohort Study on DNA Methylation for Endometrial Cancer Detection in Cervical Scrapings
Authors: Ma Xiao , Chen Xiaojun , Liang Jing , Zhang Jingbo , Wu Qixi , Wang Dong , Huang Xianghua , Zi Dan , Chen Dexin , Wan Hua , Qu Li , Jiang Zhaoyun , Shao Wenyu , Sun Jie , Chang Luyuan , Liu Yunchao , Zhang Qin , Li Yanan , Ding Yani , Tang Biao , Zhao Fang , Zhao Hanqing , Cao Dongyan
Published: November 2024

Background

The increasing incidence of endometrial cancer (EC) has highlighted the need for improved early detection methods. This study aimed to develop and validate a novel DNA methylation classifier, EMPap, for EC detection using cervical scrapings.

Methods

EMPap incorporated the methylation status of BHLHE22 and CDO1, along with age and body mass index (BMI), into a logistic regression model to calculate the endometrial cancer methylation (EM) score for identifying EC in cervical scrapings. We enrolled 1297 patients with highly suspected EC, including 196 confirmed EC cases, and assessed the EMPap performance in detecting EC.

Results

EMPap demonstrated robust diagnostic accuracy, with an area under the curve of 0.93, sensitivity of 90.3%, and specificity of 89.3%. It effectively detected EC across various disease stages, grades, and histological subtypes, and consistently performed well across patient demographics and symptoms. EMPap correctly identified 87.5% of the type II ECs and 53.8% of premalignant lesions. Notably, compared with transvaginal ultrasonography (TVS) in patients with postmenopausal bleeding, EMPap exhibited superior sensitivity (100% vs. 82.0%) and specificity (85.2% vs. 38.5%). In asymptomatic postmenopausal women, EMPap maintained high sensitivity (89.5%) and negative predictive value (NPV) (98.3%).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the potential of EMPap as an effective tool for EC detection. Despite the limited sample size, EMPap showed promise for identifying type II EC and detecting over 50% of premalignant lesions. As a DNA methylation classifier, EMPap can reduce unnecessary uterine interventions and improve diagnosis and outcomes.