bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superior Impact Resistance in Bionic Nanocellulose Composite Supramolecular Elastomers via Multiple Hydrogen Bonding Interactions
Authors: Wu Tianhao , Jiang Hao , Zheng Yujing , Zhao Chunyao , Shi Keyu , Xu Kangcheng , Li Xiaodong , Zou Meishuai
Published: December 2024

Inspired by biological mechanisms of impact protection, nanocellulose and linear polyurethane molecular chains are simultaneously tailored and expanded using supramolecular chemistry. This approach has led to the development of a novel impact protection strategy that leverages multilevel hydrogen bonding interactions. These abundant interactions effectively hinder the crystallization of polycaprolactone (PCL) chain segments, resulting in uniformly distributed microphase separation. This configuration achieves a significant fracture strength of 47.5 MPa, while maintaining an exceptional elongation at a break of 974.2%. The results demonstrate that supramolecular polyurethane‐cellulose nanofiber (SPU‐CNF) elastomer significantly reduces impact force and extends the impact buffer time. Crucially, the underlying mechanisms responsible for energy dissipation and impact protection in SPU‐CNF are elucidated. To validate these properties, impact protection tests at varying impact rates are conducted, underscoring the potential applications of the proposed SPU‐CNF in impact‐resistant materials.
Terminal Effects of Fulleropyrrolidine Electron Transport Materials for Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Fu , Chen Bin‐Wen , Fan Ajuan , Chen Zuo‐Chang , Pan Yanbiao , Tang Zhuen , Deng Lin‐Long , Xing Zhou , Li Shu‐Hui
Published: December 2024

Fullerene (C60) and its derivatives are the most prevalent and efficient electron transport materials (ETMs) for state‐of‐the‐art perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Benefiting from the high performance, simple synthesis, and easy availability of raw materials, fulleropyrrolidine derivatives (FDs) are potential next‐generation ETM alternatives to currently used fullerene materials. However, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of FDs still lags far behind that of methanofullerene derivatives such as [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM). Moreover, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this work, six FD ETMs are designed and synthesized, i.e., CN‐TPAX (X = H, Me, OMe, Cl, Br, I), for p‐i‐n PSCs, and obtained a champion PCE of over 25% for the CN‐TPACl ETM, outperforming all reported FDs until now. Subsequently, their performance is systematically characterized in terms of molecular characteristics, including single‐crystal structure, electronic properties, film formability/morphology, and electron dynamics, which helped reveal the terminal effects of FD ETMs on the molecular characteristics and photovoltaic performance of PSCs. This approach clarified the structure–performance relationships between the FDs and the resulting devices, highlighting the importance of the terminal design of fullerene ETMs for high‐performance PSCs.
Progress in the Stability of Small Molecule Acceptor‐Based Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Xu Han , Han Jianhua , Sharma Anirudh , Paleti Sri Harish Kumar , Hultmark Sandra , Yazmaciyan Aren , Müller Christian , Baran Derya
Published: December 2024

Significant advancements in power conversion efficiency have been achieved in organic solar cells with small molecule acceptors. However, stability remains a primary challenge, impeding their widespread adoption in renewable energy applications. This review summarizes the degradation of different layers within the device structure in organic solar cells under varying conditions, including light, heat, moisture, and oxygen. For the photoactive layers, the chemical degradation pathways of polymer donors and small molecule acceptors are examined in detail, alongside the morphological stability of the bulk heterojunction structure, which plays a crucial role in device performance. The degradation mechanisms of commonly used anode and cathode interlayers and electrodes are addressed, as these layers significantly influence overall device efficiency and stability. Mitigation methods for the identified degradation mechanisms are provided in each section to offer practical insights for improving device longevity. Finally, an outlook presents the remaining challenges in achieving long‐term stability, emphasizing research directions that require further investigation to enhance the reliability and performance of organic solar cells in real‐world applications.
Ternary Compensation Enables High‐sensitive Efficient Upconversion Device for NIR Visualization
Authors: Dong Shilong , Li Jin , Ma Tianjiao , Zhang Ming , Zhu Lei , Gao Xiaxin , Ma Manping , Yuan Wenqiang , Wang Zaiyu , Liu Feng , Jiang Xuesong
Published: December 2024

Beyond the crystalline photodiodes for infrared visualization, with the limitation of opacity and complex lithographic processes, organic upconversion device (UCD) have emerged as a potential alternative. In this research, a ternary compensation strategy is implemented in a non‐fullerene‐based active layer to reduce the dark current of the detector and enhance its detection performance, which enables high‐sensitive efficient upconversion device for near‐infrared light (NIR) visualization. The device achieves an infrared‐to‐visible upconversion efficiency of 16.68% when resolving the 980 nm infrared signal at a power density of 0.4 mW cm−2. In addition, by replacing the semitransparent matrix electrodes, a large‐area (12.25 cm2) is further fabricated, lightweight (6.5 g containing encapsulation), pixel‐less (equivalent resolution 1270 ppi), and semitransparent (AVT ≈40%) UCD with microsecond response time. The fabricated UCD is demonstrated in pixel‐less active infrared naked‐eye visualization and infrared counter‐surveillance, fostering the advancement of infrared visualization technology.
Multifunctional Microneedle Patches Loaded With Engineered Nitric Oxide‐Releasing Nanocarriers for Targeted and Synergistic Chronic Wound Therapy
Authors: Jin Yinli , Liu Shuhua , Wang Xueyang , Wang Chenyuan , Ruan Qiongfang , Li Wei
Published: December 2024

Chronic wounds impose significant physical and mental burdens on patients. Nano‐based formulations offer a promising strategy for chronic wound healing due to their non‐invasive nature and enhanced biofilms penetration, but they often lack targeting capability or fail to achieve long‐term and synergistic effects. In this work, a multifunctional microneedle (MN) patch loaded with engineered nitric oxide (NO)‐releasing nanocarriers are presented that encapsulate an antibacterial agent and are immobilized with Concanavalin A (Con A) and NO molecules for targeted and synergistic treatment of chronic wounds. With the assistance of MNs, the nanoparticles (NPs) can directly cross bacterial biofilms and be efficiently delivered to wound tissues, where they target harmful bacteria through the specific recognition between Con A and polysaccharides on bacterial surfaces, followed by the release of the encapsulated antimicrobial agent, thereby achieving effective antibacterial effect. Moreover, the NPs generate NO in a sustained manner as they dissociate in the wound tissue, which exerts potent anti‐inflammatory action and benefits tissue regeneration, further promoting chronic wounds closure. Consequently, this work provides a novel MN patch loaded with engineered NPs designed for accelerating chronic wound healing through targeted and synergistic therapy.
Inverse Size‐Scaling Ferroelectricity in Centrosymmetric Insulating Perovskite Oxide DyScO3
Authors: Chen Linyuan , Ma Xue , Liang Zhiyao , Wang Yi , Liu Feng , Ma Yunpeng , Bao Yu‐Han , Lin Kai‐Qiang , Li Qian , Xu Bin , Wei Xian‐Kui
Published: December 2024

The breaking of inversion symmetry dictates the emergence of electric polarization, whose topological states in superlattices and bulks have received tremendous attention for their intriguing physics brought for novel device design. However, as for substrate oxides such as LaAlO3, KTaO3, RScO3 (R = rare earth element), their centrosymmetric trivial attributes make their functionality poorly explored. Here, the discovery of nanoscale thickness gradient‐induced nonpolar‐to‐polar phase transition in band insulator DyScO3 is reported by using atomic resolution transmission electron microscopy. As the free‐standing specimen reduces to a critical thickness ≈5 nm, its inversion symmetry is spontaneously broken by surface charge transfer, which gives rise to asymmetric Dy atomic displacements and ferrodistortive octahedral order, as substantiated by the first‐principles calculations. Apart from the observation of migratable polar vortex structures, the switchable electric polarization by applied electric field is demonstrated by the piezoresponse force microscopy experiments. Given the decisive role of critical size in generating ferroelectricity, a concept of “inverse size‐scaling ferroelectric” is proposed to define a class of such materials. Distinct from the proper and improper ferroelectrics, the findings offer a new platform to explore novel low‐dimensional ferroelectrics and device applications in the future.
Tunable Single‐Phase White Light Emission from Complex Perovskite Sr3CaNb2O9: Dy3+/Eu3+ Phosphors
Authors: Khan Noor Zamin , Khan Sayed Ali , Muhammad Nisar , Chen Weilong , Ahmed Jahangeer , Padhiar Muhammad Amin , Chen Mei , Runowski Marcin , Alshehri Saad M. , Zhang Baohua , Pan Shu‐Sheng , Zheng Ren‐Kui
Published: December 2024

Sr3CaNb2O9:Dy3+/Eu3+ phosphors with a complex perovskite structure are prepared using a high‐temperature solid‐ state reaction technique. These phosphors are doped either singly or in combination with Dy3+/Eu3+ ions, resulting in efficient energy transfer from Dy3+ to Eu3+ and thus tunable‐color emission. Under 353 nm excitation, the Sr3CaNb2O9:Dy3+ phosphor emits blue (492 nm), yellow (583 nm), and red (682 nm) light, with the optimal doping concentration of Dy3+ of 0.04%. When excited by 394 nm (7F0 → 5L6), the Sr3CaNb2O9:Eu3+ phosphor exhibits two most intense emissions centered at 593 nm (5D0 → 7F1) and 614 nm (5D0 → 7F2). The decrease in luminescence intensity with increasing doping concentration of Dy3+ and Eu3+ is due to the cross‐relaxation associated with electric dipole–dipole interaction. Photoluminescence emission measurements under excitations of 353 and 365 nm indicate that the Sr3CaNb2O9:0.04Dy3+/0.05Eu3+ phosphor shows excellent thermal stability, even at a temperature of 150 °C, where the luminescence intensity preserves 79% of its initial value at room temperature. The electroluminescence performance of the Sr3CaNb2O9:0.04Dy3+/0.05Eu3+ phosphor is tested with 365 nm LED chips for potential use in white LEDs. The results confirm that Sr3CaNb2O9:0.04Dy3+/0.05Eu3+ phosphor has great potential for use in high‐power white LED applications as a single matrix.
Photoluminescent Sol‐Gel Glass Constructed via Highly Efficient Förster Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Yu Longyue , Fu Wenwen , Li Mengdie , Liu Hailong , Huang Xionghui , Xin Xia , Feng Lei , Li Hongguang
Published: December 2024

Photoluminescent (PL) solid with color tunability are in high demand for the development of large‐area display and illumination devices. With high transparency, high chemical stability, and mature fabrication, sol‐gel glass is an ideal solid matrix to obtain such materials by chromophore doping. However, it remains a big challenge to obtain sol‐gel glass with high luminous efficiency under a single excitation wavelength. Herein, the construction of highly luminescent sol‐gel glass enabled by Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) is reported. Branched siloxane is used to modify naphthalene and BODIPY, which led to the formation of blue‐emitting donor (denoted as Si‐Nap) and green‐emitting acceptor (denoted as Si‐BODIPY), respectively. Efficient FRET occurs between Si‐Nap and Si‐BODIPY proved by spectral titration and lifetime measurements, with an energy transfer efficiency (ΦET) up to 97.9%. When RhB is added, it acts as a final acceptor that enables the occurrence of a sequential FRET from Si‐Nap to Si‐BODIPY and further to RhB. The overall energy transfer efficiency reaches 94%, and the fluorescence quantum yield exceeds 88%. By adjustment of the composition, color‐tunable sol‐gel glass is obtained with emergence of white‐emitting samples, opening potential applications in a variety of fields.
Hybrid Terahertz Emitter for Pulse Shaping and Chirality Control
Authors: Wu Weipeng , Acuna Wilder , Huang Zhixiang , Wang Xi , Gundlach Lars , Doty Matthew F. , Zide Joshua M. O. , Jungfleisch M. Benjamin
Published: December 2024

Terahertz (THz) radiation (0.3 to 30 THz) fills the crucial gap between the microwave and infrared spectral range. THz technology is important for applications ranging from imaging to telecommunication to biosensing, but these applications often require precise control and manipulation of the THz frequency and polarization state, which typically requires modulators external to the THz source. A hybrid THz emitter that overcomes this limitation by integrating two THz emitters into a single device to enable pulse shaping and chirality control of the emitted radiation without any external components is demonstrated. The two sources are a spintronic emitter (SE) and a semiconductor photoconductive antenna (PCA). The two emitters respond independently to external parameters: the PCA is controlled by the applied bias voltage, while the SE is controlled by the applied magnetic field. Moreover, a dual‐wavelength excitation scheme allows for control of the relative time delay between the THz emission from each constituent. These properties of the hybrid emitter enable precise control of the mixing of the two signals to control the frequency, polarization, and chirality of the overall THz radiation. This on‐chip hybrid emitter thus provides a powerful platform for engineered THz radiation with wide‐ranging potential applications.
Systematic Characterization of Splicing Dysregulation in Pan Solid Tumor Transcriptome
Authors: Sui Jingru , Guo Dan , Wen Xiao , Zhou Lei , Huang Yue , Yu Haoyu , Chen Jinyu , Liu Zhaoqi
Published: December 2024

Splicing dysregulation arising from spliceosomal mutations contributes to disease progression and treatment resistance, mostly in hematologic malignancy. Whereas spliceosomal mutations are less common in solid tumors, splicing disorders are pervasive and proven to promote tumorigenesis. However, there is a lack of systematic understanding of the overall splicing dysregulation patterns and how widespread different patterns occur within or across solid tumor lineage. To address these questions, a computational method called SMNPLS (Sparse Multi‐Network Regularized Partial Least Squares) is developed to uncover the pan‐cancer splicing dysregulation landscape by extracting joint modular patterns from paired matrices of splicing factors (SFs) expressions and alternative splicing events (ASEs). Six unique patterns illustrated by ASE‐SF co‐modules are summarized, which involve 1,570 ASEs and altered expression of 170 SFs, covering 40% of TCGA solid tumors. Cross‐cancer commonalities of splicing dysregulation are observed among digestive system neoplasms, renal‐associated tumors, and urogenital tumors. By contrast, brain tumors demonstrate a distinct splicing pattern with the highest ASE‐SF correlation. In addition, some new splicing regulatory relationships are identified that are potentially oncogenic. Overall, the study characterizes the full spectrum of splicing dysregulation patterns, indicating the similarity and specificity of splicing‐derived pathogenesis across 31 human solid tumors.
Modulation of Biomaterial‐Associated Fibrosis by Means of Combined Physicochemical Material Properties
Authors: Tromp Lisa E. , van der Boon Torben A.B. , de Hilster Roderick H.J. , Bank Ruud , van Rijn Patrick
Published: December 2024

Biomaterial‐associated fibrosis remains a significant challenge in medical implants. To optimize implant design, understanding the interplay between biomaterials and host cells during the foreign body response (FBR) is crucial. Material properties are known to influence cellular behavior and can be used to manipulate cell responses, but predicting the right combination for the desired outcomes is challenging. This study explores how combined physicochemical material properties impact early myofibroblast differentiation using the Biomaterial Advanced Cell Screening (BiomACS) technology, which assesses hundreds of combinations of surface topography, stiffness, and wettability in a single experiment. Normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) are screened for cell density, area, and myofibroblast markers α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and Collagen type I (COL1) after 24 h and 7 days of culture, with or without transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β). Results demonstrated that material properties influence fibroblast behavior after 7 days with TGF‐β stimulation, with wettability emerging as the predominant factor, followed by stiffness. The study identified regions with increased cell adhesion while minimizing myofibroblast differentiation, offering the potential for implant surface optimization to prevent fibrosis. This research provides a powerful tool for cell‐material studies and represents a critical step toward enhancing implant properties and reducing complications, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Electron‐Lattice Synergistic Coordination for Boosting the Electro‐Optic Response of the Crystal
Authors: Han Jinfeng , Wang Yuzhou , Liang Fei , Wu Kui , Lu Dazhi , Cui Deliang , Yu Haohai , Zhang Huaijin
Published: December 2024

The electro‐optic (E‐O) response is fundamental where the refractive index of materials can be modulated by the external electric field. Up to now, E‐O modulation has become a critical technology in photonics, quantum optics, modern communication, etc. However, the design of E‐O crystals with broadband availabilities and large E‐O effect is still challenging since the E‐O response is contributed by both electrons and phonons. Here, an electron‐lattice synergistic coordination strategy is proposed for boosting the E‐O response, and with the langasite as the subject, a novel crystal La3Zr0.5Ga5Si0.5O14 (LZGS) is designed. By the rational introduction of the Zr4+ ion in the octahedral site, it is found that the E‐O response can be obviously improved attributed to the active 4d orbitals of the Zr4+ ion and the optical phonons of the flexible (ZrO6) unit. This crystal also has advantages in transparency, laser damage threshold and E‐O coefficient compared with the well‐known E‐O crystals. Moreover, broadband E‐O modulation is also demonstrated in the lasers at wavelengths from 639 to 1991 nm. These findings not only demonstrate an excellent E‐O crystal for the development of modern devices in classical and quantum fields but also provide a design strategy for boosting the E‐O response.
Controllable Strategy of Metal–Organic Framework Structural Stability: Regulation of Ligand Electronegativity by Esterification
Authors: Huang Guanjie , Ma Jianzhong , Chen Jie , Zhang Wenbo , Fan Qianqian , Han Buxing
Published: December 2024

Structural stability of metal–organic framework (MOF) is crucial for their application, and thus it is of great significance to construct MOFs with controllable structural stability. Herein, a strategy based on adjusting the electronic environment of ligands to regulate the structure stability of MOF is proposed. Briefly, a novel Zr‐MOF (Zr‐TA) with hydroxyl groups is synthesized. The hydroxyl groups are esterified to obtain ester groups with stronger electronegativity, which can weaken the strength of coordination between metal ion and ligand, thereby regulating the structure stability of the Zr‐MOF. Notably, this strategy can achieve controllable adjustment of the structure by adding modifiers at the appropriate time. In this work, this strategy is used to greatly improving the binding ability of MOF and collagen fibers, the hydrothermal stability of crosslinked collagen fibers is enhanced by 82.6%. Surprisingly, this strategy can also be applied to other application fields that require dynamic changes in structural stability of MOF. It will open up a new pathway for controlling the structural stability and application performance of MOF.
Reducing Lithium‐Diffusion Barrier on the Wadsley–Roth Crystallographic Shear Plane via Low‐Valent Cation Doping for Ultrahigh Power Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Jun , Xiang Yu , Xu Jingyue , Zhang Wenfeng , Zhang Huimin , Qiu Jingyi , Zhu Xiayu , Zhang Hao , Lin Haiping , Cao Gaoping
Published: December 2024

Rapid‐charging niobium–tungsten oxide Nb14W3O44 (NbWO) anodes with a Wadsley–Roth crystallographic shear (WRCS) structure possess 3D interconnected open tunnels. However, the anisotropic Li+ diffusion paths lead to a high lithium‐diffusion barrier of hooping between window sites across edge‐shared octahedrons, as the rate‐limiting step of hooping. To improve the rate capability of NbWO, doping it with low‐valent cations (with valences lower than W6+) to reduce the high lithium‐diffusion barrier is proposed. Electron energy loss spectroscopy reveals that low‐valent V5+, V4+, Tb4+, and Ce4+ tend to distribute on the crystallographic shear plane under electrostatic repulsion forces. The reduction in steric hindrance resulting from the increased long bond length ratio of doped edge‐shared octahedrons, coupled with coordination environment modification of [LiO5] on the crystallographic shear plane due to the low energy level of V5+, enhances Li+ diffusion kinetics and cyclic stability. V5+‐ and Tb4+‐doped NbWOs achieve rate capacities of 83 and 63 mAh g−1, at 200 C (1C = 0.178 Ag−1) and retain 75.42% and 86.79% of their capacities, respectively, after 3700 cycles at 20 C. Thus, the proposed doping strategy is promising for preparing WRCS‐type niobium‐based oxides for ultrafast lithium storage.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Mesomorphic Chromenonapthophenathridines
Authors: Vadivel Marichandran , K Swamynathan , Raghunathan V. A. , Kumar Sandeep
Published: December 2024

Heterocyclic discotic liquid crystals containing heteroatoms such as O, N, S, Se, P as part of π‐conjugated framework has revolutionized organic semiconductors research. The presence of heteroatom in π‐conjugated core has been reported to strikingly influence the self‐assembling properties. In this work we have synthesized novel chromenophenanthridines where the incorporation of oxygen facilitates the in plane ordering of central core and improves liquid crystalline character in these molecules. This paper elucidates the mesomorphic behavior of chromenonapthophenanthridines prepared via tandem Pictet Spengler cyclisation and ipso‐aromatic substitution in one pot. The synthesized compounds exhibited wide range enantiotropic columnar hexagonal phase. The mesomorphic behavior was suggested as a function of peripheral alkyl chains. The shorter homologue was found to exhibit hexagonal columnar plastic phase whereas higher ones exhibit hexagonal columnar phase.
Association between dietary inflammatory index score and incident dementia
Authors: van Lent Debora Melo , Mesa Hannah Gokingco , Short Meghan I. , Gonzales Mitzi M. , Aparicio Hugo J. , Salinas Joel , Yuan Changzheng , Jacques Paul F. , Beiser Alexa , Seshadri Sudha , Jacob Mini E. , Himali Jayandra J.
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

We evaluated whether higher Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) scores were associated with increased incidence of all‐cause dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia over 22.3 years of follow‐up in the community‐based Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort.

METHODS

One thousand four hundred eighty‐seven participants (mean ± standard deviation, age in years 69 ± 6) completed food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) and had incident all‐cause dementia and AD surveillance data available.

RESULTS

Two hundred forty‐six participants developed all‐cause dementia (including AD, n = 187) over a median follow‐up time of 13.1 years. Higher DII scores, averaged across a maximum of three timepoints, were associated with an increased incidence of all‐cause dementia and AD after adjustment for demographic, lifestyle, and clinical covariates (hazard ratio [HR] 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–1.33, P < 0.001; HR 1.20, 95% CI: 1.07–1.34d, P = 0.001, respectively).

DISCUSSION

Higher DII scores were associated with a higher risk of incident all‐cause dementia and AD. Although these promising findings need to be replicated and further validated, our results suggest that diets that correlate with low DII scores may prevent late‐life dementia.

Highlights

Higher Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) scores were associated with an increased incidence of all‐cause dementia.

Higher DII scores were associated with an increased incidence of Alzheimer's disease dementia.

Diets that correlate with low DII scores may prevent late‐life dementia.
Locus coeruleus tau is linked to successive cortical tau accumulation
Authors: Yi Dahyun , Byun Min Soo , Jung Joon Hyung , Jung Gijung , Ahn Hyejin , Chang Yoon Young , Keum Musung , Lee Jun‐Young , Lee Yun‐Sang , Kim Yu Kyeong , Kang Koung Mi , Sohn Chul‐Ho , Risacher Shannon L. , Saykin Andrew J. , Lee Dong Young ,   the KBASE Research Group
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

We investigated the hypothesis that tau burden in the locus coeruleus (LC) correlates with tau accumulation in cortical regions according to the Braak stages and examined whether the relationships differed according to cortical amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition.

METHODS

One hundred and seventy well‐characterized participants from an ongoing cohort were included. High‐resolution T1, tau positron emission tomography (PET), and amyloid PET were obtained.

RESULTS

LC tau burden was significantly linked to global tau in neocortical regions, as was tau in both early Braak stage (stage I/II) and later Braak stage areas. This relationship was significant only in Aβ‐positive individuals. While LC tau did not directly impact memory, it was indirectly associated with delayed memory through mediation or moderation pathways.

DISCUSSION

The findings from living human brains support the idea that LC tau closely relates to subsequent cortical tau accumulation, particularly among individuals with pathological Aβ accumulation, and identify LC tau burden as a promising indicator of cognitive trajectories of AD.

Highlights

Tau burden in the LC was significantly associated with cortical tau accumulation.

Tau burden in SN or PPN showed no association with cortical tau accumulation.

LC tau burden was serially associated with Braak stages.

The tau‐LC and cortical tau relationship was significant only in the Aβ‐positive group.

Cortical amyloid's impact on memory worsens with higher tau accumulation in the LC.
Exerkines mitigating Alzheimer's disease progression by regulating inflammation: Focusing on macrophage/microglial NLRP3 inflammasome pathway
Authors: Cheon Jaehwan , Kwon Soonyong , Kim Mikyung
Published: December 2024

Recent research highlights the critical role of inflammation in accelerating amyloid beta and phosphorylated tubulin‐associated protein tau cascade and Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. Emerging evidence suggests that exercise influences AD by modulating inflammatory responses. We conducted a comprehensive search across multiple online databases. Our approach focused on previous and recent studies exploring the links among inflammation, AD, and the effects of exercise, specifically targeting research articles and books published in English. We pointed out that inflammation extends from the periphery to the central nervous system, facilitated by macrophage/microglial NLRP3 (nucleotide‐binding domain, leucine rich–containing family, pyrin domain–containing protein 3) inflammasome signaling, which exacerbates classical AD mechanisms. Moreover, we provided further insights into the modulation of inflammasome signaling through exercise and exerkines, which may contribute to mitigating AD development. These insights deepen our understanding of AD mechanisms and offer the potential for identifying key therapeutic targets and biomarkers crucial for effective disease management and treatment.

Highlights

Inflammation is potentially linked to the acceleration of classical Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis, including the pathways involving amyloid beta and phosphorylated tau, mediated by pro‐inflammatory cytokines.

Inflammation, initiated by the nucleotide‐binding domain, leucine rich–containing family, pyrin domain–containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome signaling pathway within M1‐type macrophages/microglia, may contribute to neuroinflammation and AD progression.

Exercise has the potential to reduce inflammation and the development of AD by influencing NLRP3 inflammasome signaling via exerkines.
Developing and applying potentially scalable recruitment strategies to accelerate ADRD research participation of Black adults
Authors: Richards Ralph , Richards Mollie , Musema Jane , Tackett Andrew , Van Heiden Sarah , Polsinelli Angelina , Gao Sujuan , Brown Steven A. , Unverzagt Frederick W. , Risacher Shannon , Adeoye‐Olatunde Omolola , Campbell Christopher , Shaw Pamella , Saykin Andrew , Wang Sophia
Published: December 2024

More than 2 million older Americans from underrepresented racial and ethnic minority groups (URGs) have early‐stage Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). There are very few scalable recruitment strategies, particularly for Black older adults, to accelerate participation in ADRD research. The Indiana Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (IADRC) and its Community Advisory Board developed and implemented the innovative RAAISE‐D Framework. This Framework informed the creation of community‐first recruitment strategies designed to accelerate participation of Black older adults in ADRD research. Preliminary outcomes from its implementation included the doubling of Black adult enrollment (46, 13.4% to 101, 26.9%) from April 2020 to April 2024. Black adults were more likely to have normal cognition, be female, and ≤ 12 years of education than non‐Hispanic White adults. The RAAISE‐D Framework identified key concepts for URG focused recruitment strategies which successfully accelerated enrollment of Black adults in ADRD research and could be generalized to other URGs.

Highlights

RAAISE‐D Framework provides adaptable URG recruitment strategies.

IADRC CAB‐researcher partnership was the foundation of community‐first methodology.

RAAISE‐D Framework doubled the Black enrollment in the IADRC in 4 years.
Unexpected Magnetic Moments in Manganese‐Doped (CdSe)13 Nanoclusters: Role of Ligands
Authors: Huang Guo‐Lun , Ting Ko.‐Yu , Narayanam Nagaraju , Wu Dong‐Rong , Hsieh Tzung‐En , Tsai Kai‐Chih , Yang Da‐Wei , Tang Qi‐Xun , Su Bo‐Kai , Kang Yu‐Ting , Huang Shing‐Jong , Chen Ching‐Hsiang , Chang Yuan‐Pin , Yang Lan‐Sheng , Chao Yu‐Chiang , Li Elise Yu‐Tzu , Liu Yi‐Hsin
Published: December 2024

This study explores the enhancement in magnetic and photoluminescence properties of Mn2+‐doped (CdSe)13 nanoclusters, significantly influenced by the introduction of paramagnetic centers through doping, facilitated by optimized precursor chemistry and precisely controlled surface ligand interactions. Using a cost‐effective and scalable synthesis approach with elemental Se and NaBH4 (Se‐NaBH4) in n‐octylamine, we tailored bonding configurations (Cd−O, Cd−N, and Cd−Se) on the surface of nanoclusters, as confirmed by EXAFS analysis. These bonding configurations allowed for tunable Mn2+‐doping with tetrahedral coordination, further stabilized by hydrogen‐bonded acetate ligands, as evidenced by 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy. Mulliken charge analysis indicates that the charge redistribution on Se2− suggests electron transfer between surface ligands and the nanocluster, contributing to spin fluctuations. These tailored configurations markedly increased the nanoclusters′ magnetic susceptibility and photoluminescence efficiency. The resulting nanoclusters demonstrated a clear concentration‐dependent response in emission lifetimes and intensities upon exposure to magnetic field effects (MFE) and spin‐spin coupling, alongside a large magnetic moment exceeding 40 μB at 180 K. These findings highlight the potential of these nanoclusters for magneto‐optical devices and spintronic applications, showcasing their tunable magnetic properties and exciton dynamics.
3D‐Printable Polymer Filters for the Selective Complexation of Silver Ions
Authors: Koswig Timo , Meurer Josefine , Bätz Thomas , Müschke Oswald , Zechel Stefan , Hager Martin D. , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: December 2024

This study presents the fabrication of polymeric filters, which are able to selectively bind silver ions from aqueous solution. Those filters are fabricated within an easy approach via 3D‐digital light processing (DLP)‐printing enabling a tailor‐made design. In first order, an acrylamide containing a benzo‐trithiacrown‐ether (BTCE) functionality is synthesized. This monomer is further 3D‐printed via layer by layer photo‐polymerization together with commercially available comonomers, resulting in polymer networks containing the BTCE‐groups in their side chains as selective binding moiety for silver ions. Within isothermal‐titration calorimetry (ITC) measurements, the complexation abilities of the BTCE to bind the Ag+ ions are determined. Furthermore, the resulting 3D‐printed filters are investigated regarding their complexation behavior, in a detailed fashion applying inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES).
Upcycling of Postconsumer PET Using Serinol: Green Preparation of a New Multifunctional Initiator for PLA
Authors: Truscello Ada , Sartiano Chiara , Galimberti Maurizio Stefano , Gambarotti Cristian , Gazzotti Stefano , Ortenzi Marco Aldo
Published: December 2024

Chemical recycling is attracting more and more interest as it can transform a plastic scrap into a high‐value material. This work shows that the aminolysis of postconsumer poly(ethyleneterephthalate) (PET) with serinol, a nontoxic and biosourced hydroxyamine, leads to a novel multifunctional initiator for poly(lactic acid) (PLA). The reaction was performed at 180°C, without the need of catalysts, and resulted in a substantially complete aminolysis of PET, selectively yielding the corresponding diamide of terephthalic acid (terephthalic acid serinol bis‐amide, TASBA), together with ethylene glycol as the co‐product. TASBA holds four hydroxy groups and was used as multifunctional initiator in the polymerization of lactide to PLA, with 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1% w/w of TASBA with respect to L‐lactide. TASBA led to a multiarm PLA, whose molecular weight and thermal and rheological properties could be tuned with the amount of initiator. The lowest amount of initiator left substantially unaffected the molecular weight and led to higher melt viscosity and to lower crystallinity. Lower molecular weight and melt viscosity were obtained by increasing the amount of TASBA. This work therefore proposes a synergy between the most important polyesters, the most diffused PET and the compostable PLA.
A comprehensive review of the application of cold plasma technology in lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment
Authors: Abolore Rasaq S. , Jaiswal Swarna , Jaiswal Amit K.
Published: December 2024

Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) is a promising feedstock for the sustainable production of biofuels and other biobased products, owing to its abundance, low cost, and minimal competition with food crops for resources. It is mainly composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, forming a complex biomass matrix. Its utilization is hindered by its complex structure and pretreatment is required to break down the chemical resistance caused by the strong association between the cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin structures. Conventional methods such as acid and alkali pretreatment are used frequently but they require the use of high temperatures, high pressure, and corrosive chemicals. This has encouraged research into environmentally friendly pretreatments to overcome these challenges. Recently, cold plasma (CP) technology has emerged as a promising alternative to the aggressive conventional methods for producing value‐added products, such as biofuels, and renewable chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass. Cold plasma technology uses electricity to generate a highly reactive, ionized gas in a variety of applications without producing any dangerous or polluting compounds. This review discusses the application of cold atmospheric pressure plasma in the biochemical conversion of biomass, with a focus on delignification, detoxification of biomass hydrolysate, surface modifications, and process intensification of cellulosic ethanol production.
A Comprehensive Review of Lavandula stoechas L. (Ustukhuddus) Plant: Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and In Silico Studies
Authors: Ahamad Rizwan , Kumar Satendra , Akhtar Mohd. , Aqil Mohd. , Yar Mohammad Shahar , Akram Mohd. , Ismail Mohd. Vaseem , Mujeeb Mohd.
Published: December 2024

Lavandula stoechas L., also referred to as French lavender or Spanish lavender, is a well‐known medicinal plant with a strong presence in traditional medicine systems. This review provides an overview of the existing research progress on L. stoechas, encompassing its traditional uses, medicinal phytochemistry, pharmacological activity as well as clinical applications, and in silico studies. Literature searches on the traditional, medicinal phytochemistry and biological activities of L. stoechas were conducted using online databases that included Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and PubMed as well as pre‐electronic literature sources obtained from the library of the university. Recent scientific studies have explored the phytochemicals of L. stoechas, revealing a diverse collection of bioactive substances, including flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids. Pharmacological studies have provided additional clarity on the therapeutic benefits of extracts and isolated components from L. stoechas. Studies confirm its antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects and its potential for anxiety, insomnia, and dermatological disorders. Computational approaches revealed ligand interactions between L. stoechas constituents and targets, enhancing understanding through in silico analysis. In summary, the combined study underscores L. stoechas’s diverse therapeutic potential, validating its traditional uses while providing scientific insights into its chemical composition, its formulations, its molecular mechanisms, and its pharmacological activities.
A New Methylbutyric Acid Derivative with Pro‐angiogenesis Activity from the Mangrove Fungus Penicillium polonicum M‐3
Authors: Zhang Yan , Cao Wei , Liu Xin , Ma Zhiheng , Li Peihai , Chen Hao , Fan yaqin
Published: December 2024

A new methylbutyric acid derivative penianoic acid A (1), along with fifteen known compounds (2–16), was isolated and identified from the culture extract of Penicillium polonicum M‐3 sourced from Malaysian mangrove root soil. Their structures were determined by detailed spectroscopic analysis of NMR and MS data and quantum chemical calculations of ECD and NMR (with DP4+ probability analysis). The isolated compounds were evaluated for pro‐angiogenesis activity using zebrafish in vivo model. Compounds 1, 3, 4, 6–10, and 12–15 showed potent in pro‐angiogenic activity in transgenic zebrafish.
TNK2 Inhibitor (R)−9bMS Causes Polyploidization Through Mitotic Failure by Targeting Aurora B
Authors: Murata Mayu , Kuwajima Hiroki , Tanaka Junna , Hasegawa Nanami , Yuki Ryuzaburo , Saito Youhei , Nakayama Yuji
Published: December 2024

TNK2 is a ubiquitously expressed nonreceptor‐type tyrosine kinase. TNK2 participates in tumorigenesis, and TNK2 activation has been found in various cancers; therefore, TNK2 is a promising target for cancer chemotherapy. While the TNK2 inhibitor XMD16‐5 is highly selective, it inhibits cytokinesis at higher concentrations by targeting Aurora B kinase, a key enzyme for cell division. Cytokinesis failure frequently generates polyploid cells, and the surviving polyploid cells risk leading to cancer development and malignant progression via chromosome instability. In this study, to investigate the possibility that (R)−9bMS, a TNK2 inhibitor structurally related to XMD16‐5, drives malignant progression by inducing abnormal cell division, we examined its effects on cell division, Aurora B autophosphorylation, and colony formation. Cell count results showed a reduction in the number of A431, HeLa S3, HCT116, and MCF7 cells upon TNK2 inhibitor treatment. Microscopic observation indicated the formation of multinucleated and nucleus‐enlarged cells. An increase in DNA content was confirmed with flow cytometry, which was underpinned by an increased number of centrosomes. Time‐lapse imaging revealed mitotic failure, such as mitotic slippage and cytokinesis failure, as a cause of polyploidization. Of note, TNK2 knockdown significantly increased multinucleated cells, but the effect was quite weak, suggesting that TNK2 inhibition may only partially contribute to mitotic failure and polyploidization. Expectedly, Aurora B phosphorylation was reduced by (R)−9bMS like XMD16‐5, but not by TNK2 knockdown. Collectively, TNK2 inhibitors (R)−9bMS and XMD16‐5 induce polyploidization via mitotic failure caused by the inhibition of Aurora B kinase rather than TNK2. Notably, (R)−9bMS treatment promoted anchorage‐independent colony formation, a hallmark of cancer. Our findings suggest that (R)−9bMS at a high concentration risks promoting cancer development or malignant progression. Therefore, caution should be used when using TNK2 inhibitors for cancers where TNK2 activation is not the transforming mutation and higher concentrations of TNK2 inhibitors are required to slow proliferation.
The Clinical Impact of Mitral Gradient Post Transcatheter Edge‐To‐Edge Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Alabdaljabar Mohamad S. , Almiro Alyaman , Khan Jibran , Gerberi Dana J. , Murad M. Hassan , Thaden Jeremy J. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Eleid Mackram F.
Published: December 2024

Background

Mitral transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair (TEER) is a minimally invasive therapy for severe mitral regurgitation (MR) in patients with high surgical risk. TEER results in a tissue bridge that decreases mitral valve area, potentially leading to elevated mean gradient. The clinical impact of elevated gradient on outcomes is unclear.

Methods

This systematic review and meta‐analysis was based on a comprehensive search of five databases. We included studies that evaluated post mitral TEER gradient on one of the following outcomes: all‐cause mortality, combined endpoints, symptoms, hospitalizations, and mitral valve re‐intervention. Meta‐analysis was conducted using the random‐effects model.

Results

Out of 6458 citations, 17 studies were included (2017−2024) reporting on 7748 patients. There was significant heterogeneity between studies related to the cutoff used to define elevated gradient, etiology of MR, and outcomes. Elevated mitral gradient post TEER (4, 4.5, 5 mmHg) was associated with worse combined endpoint (HR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.07−1.71; I2 64%), but not all‐cause mortality (HR = 1.25, 95% CI 0.97−1.59; I2 45%) or risk of hospitalization. For the combined endpoint, this association was mainly significant in patients who had mitral gradient assessed using discharge echocardiogram (HR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.07−1.81; I2 62%) for all patients and for those with degenerative MR.

Conclusion

Despite the heterogeneity between studies, the current analysis suggests that patients with elevated mitral gradient post TEER are at risk of worse clinical outcomes, particularly in patients who had mitral gradient assessed using discharge transthoracic echocardiogram.
Impact of Robotic Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (R‐PCI) With and Without CCTA‐Guidance on Clinical Outcomes and Hospital Economics: A Single Center Registry
Authors: Viscusi Michele Mattia , Bermpeis Konstantinos , Bertolone Dario Tino , Mahendiran Thabo , Belmonte Marta , Botti Giulia , Gallinoro Emanuele , Paolisso Pasquale , Barbato Emanuele , Buytaert Dimitri , Storozhenko Tatyana , Wilgenhof Adriaan , Bartunek Jozef , Vanderheyden Marc , De Bruyne Bernard , Collet Carlos , Sonck Jeroen , Wyffels Eric
Published: December 2024

Background

Several studies have confirmed the safety and efficacy of robotic assisted coronary interventions for simple and complex coronary lesions. However, in the real‐world clinical setting the currently available evidence is still inconclusive with regard to clinical outcomes. In terms of financial sustainability, the emerging use of pre‐PCI Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) may potentially impact the overall patient journey and related costs. However, the role of CCTA guidance in elective robotic‐assisted revascularizations and its potential impact on hospital economics has never been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to assess the clinical impact of R‐PCI according to procedural complexity and its potential financial sustainability when integrated with CCTA guidance.

Methods

Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) at the latest clinical follow‐up available have been prospectively evaluated in a single center cohort of 111 patients undergoing elective R‐PCI (CorPath, Corindus GRX Robotic Drive, Boston, MA). The study population was subsequently divided into two groups according to either the median Syntax Score (SS = 14) as a surrogate of procedural complexity or the adoption of CCTA‐guidance. Additionally, both periprocedural and in‐hospital outcomes have been investigated in the overall cohort and in the subgroups.

Results

Overall, MACE occurred in 5.4% of the patients at a median follow‐up of 309 days. Procedural complexity was associated with significantly longer procedural time and radiation exposure (SS ≥ 14: 94.5 ± 32.1 vs. 78.7 ± 25.5 min, p = 0.011, and 32.7 ± 30.9 vs. 22.5 ± 19.8 mSv, p = 0.010, respectively), but not with increased in‐hospital and long‐term clinical outcomes. Additionally, patients undergoing CCTA‐guided R‐PCI had a significantly higher rate of same‐day‐discharge (SDD—64.6% vs. 44.2% respectively, p = 0.034) than those without CCTA support.

Conclusion

R‐PCI appears safe and effective regardless the procedural complexity. Moreover, the integration of robotics and CCTA‐guidance appears to have beneficial impact on hospital economics by optimizing resource utilization and improving patient selection for percutaneous revascularization.
Rescue Transcatheter Native Aortic Valve Closure to Treat Severe Aortic Regurgitation in a Patient With Single Ventricular Physiology and Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Kang Sok‐Leng , Deri Antigoni , Suliman Mohamed , Bentham James R.
Published: December 2024

Semilunar valve regurgitation in single ventricular physiology is rare but portends a poor prognosis. Medical therapy is often ineffective particularly in the context of structural valve abnormality, and surgical valve repair or replacement can be associated with poor outcomes. We report an innovative use of a highly occlusive and conformable Gore Septal Occluder for transcatheter treatment of severe native aortic regurgitation in a symptomatic patient with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and severe systemic right ventricular dysfunction, resulting in safe and complete occlusion of the aortic regurgitant orifice and clinical benefit.
Pyloric Atresia in a Neonate With Epidermolysis Bullosa: A Case Report
Authors: Sakamoto Naoya , Masumoto Kouji , Aoyama Tomohiro , Shirane Kazuki , Homma Yusuke
Published: December 2024

When surgery is performed in patients with EB, risks of blisters and epidermal detachment are always present. The Heineke‐Mikulicz pyloroplasty cannot always be performed because of anatomical constraints. In such cases, it is necessary to select a more time‐consuming surgical procedure (i.e., Roux‐en‐Y gastrojejunal anastomosis) with adequate fluid management.