bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No replicating evidence for anti‐amyloid‐β autoantibodies in cerebral amyloid angiopathy‐related inflammation
Authors: van den Berg Emma , Roelofs Rian , Jäkel Lieke , Greenberg Steven M. , Charidimou Andreas , van Etten Ellis S. , Boche Delphine , Klijn Catharina J. M. , Schreuder Floris H. B. M. , Kuiperij H. Bea , Verbeek Marcel M.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Elevated levels of anti‐amyloid‐β (anti‐Aβ) autoantibodies in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) have been proposed as a diagnostic biomarker for cerebral amyloid angiopathy‐related inflammation (CAA‐RI). We aimed to independently validate the immunoassay for quantifying these antibodies and evaluate its diagnostic value for CAA‐RI.

Methods

We replicated the immunoassay to detect CSF anti‐Aβ autoantibodies using CSF from CAA‐RI patients and non‐CAA controls with unrelated disorders and further characterized its performance. Moreover, we conducted a literature review of CAA‐RI case reports to investigate neuropathological and CSF evidence of the nature of the inflammatory reaction in CAA‐RI.

Results

The assay demonstrated a high background signal in CSF, which increased and corresponded with higher total immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration in CSF (rsp = 0.51, p = 0.02). Assay levels were not elevated in CAA‐RI patients (n = 6) compared to non‐CAA controls (n = 20; p = 0.64). Literature review indicated only occasional presence of B‐lymphocytes and plasma cells (i.e., antibody‐producing cells), alongside the abundant presence of activated microglial cells, T‐cells, and other monocyte lineage cells. CSF analysis did not convincingly indicate intrathecal IgG production.

Interpretation

We were unable to reproduce the reported elevation of anti‐Aβ autoantibody concentration in CSF of CAA‐RI patients. Our findings instead support nonspecific detection of IgG levels in CSF by the assay. Reviewed CAA‐RI case reports suggested a widespread cerebral inflammatory reaction. In conclusion, our findings do not support anti‐Aβ autoantibodies as a diagnostic biomarker for CAA‐RI.
Association of Combined Autoreactivity to Sm/RNP Common Motif and U1 RNP With Mixed Connective Tissue Disease and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Ni Ruoning , Lenert Aleksander , Lenert Petar
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical features in patients with suspected connective tissue disease who tested positive for anti‐Sm/RNP common motif antibody with or without associated anti‐RNP antibody.

Methods

The titers of anti‐Sm/RNP and anti‐RNP antibodies were measured by the multiplex solid‐phase bioassays (Bio‐Rad). Clinical manifestations were compared among the three subgroups (RNP only, Sm/RNP only, and double positive for RNP and Sm/RNP). Patients were further evaluated for the diagnosis of mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) and/or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) using accepted classification criteria.

Results

A total of 133 patients were included in this study. The rates of inflammatory arthritis and Raynaud phenomenon were significantly higher in patients testing positive for both anti‐RNP and anti‐Sm/RNP antibodies compared to anti‐RNP only or anti‐Sm/RNP only (69.1% vs 28.8% vs 25.0%, P < 0.0001 for arthritis and 59.5% vs 23.3% vs 37.5%, P = 0.0005 for Raynaud phenomenon). Area under the curve (AUC) values were 0.68 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59–0.77, P < 0.0001) for anti‐Sm/RNP titers and 0.65 (95% CI 0.55–0.74, P = 0.0039) for anti‐RNP titers with inflammatory arthritis. AUC values were 0.67 (95% CI 0.58–0.77, P = 0.0002) for anti‐Sm/RNP titers and 0.59 (95% CI 0.49–0.69, P = 0.0352) for anti‐RNP titers with Raynaud phenomenon. The odds ratios for the diagnosis of MCTD and SLE were significantly higher in patients with double positivity compared to those testing solely positive for anti‐RNP antibody.

Conclusion

Anti‐Sm/RNP common motif autoreactivity when combined with anti‐RNP antibody positivity identifies those patients who are closely related with certain clinical manifestations and who are associated with well‐defined connective tissue disease such as MCTD or SLE.
Exploration of Stimuli‐Responsive, Elastin‐Based Coatings for Textiles
Authors: Hartzell Emily J. , Gonzalez Obeso Constancio , Hasturk Onur , Scheel Ryan A. , Wan Lynn , Moser Felix , Smith Todd , Kaplan David
Published: September 2024

Smart, stimuli‐responsive materials that are also environmentally friendly are highly desired in the fashion and textile industry. For example, thermoresponsive properties show potential in creating dynamic comfort by improving moisture wicking and breathability at high temperatures. Additionally, color change properties provide aesthetic appeal and can be used as flexible sensors for physiological or environmental monitoring. Herein, the integration of bioproduced, thermoresponsive polymers into textiles as coatings that can also deliver pH‐responsive color change is explored. Elastin‐like polypeptides (ELPs) are recombinant protein biopolymers that exhibit an inverse phase transition when temperature is raised above a tunable transition temperature. To incorporate these into cotton textiles, amino acid residues with functional groups are genetically introduced. These are covalently coupled to oxidized cotton fabric, as well as a pH indicator dye, and copper‐free “click” conjugation handles. Thus, a facile layer‐by‐layer assembly process is used to assemble coatings with tunable thickness. The chemical derivatization of ELPs is shown and how these modifications influence thermoresponsive properties in solution is demonstrated. Cotton fabric is oxidized to introduce carboxylic acid chemical handles and up to ten coats of ELP is layered onto the modified cotton. The coating demonstrates spatiotemporal pH responsive color change.
Finely‐Tuned Polar‐Nonpolar Synergistic Binder Enables Ultra‐Thin Sulfide Solid Electrolyte Membrane for All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Li Rui , Chen Ning , Liu Shengnan , Mao Yuqiong , Liao Zhiqiang , Qiu Kai , Wang Pengbo , Zhang Tingshu , Hao Shuai , Zhu Gaolong , Guo Chunli , Liu Xiang , Ren Dongsheng , Lu Languang , Ouyang Minggao
Published: September 2024

The solid electrolyte (SE) membrane plays a crucial role in sulfide‐based all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs). However, the challenge of finding appropriate polymer binders with excellent (electro‐)chemical compatibility and adhesive properties, remains a significant obstacle for wet slurry processing of sulfide SE membranes. Herein, a novel “polar‐nonpolar synergistic” finely‐tuned strategy is employed to design an ethylene‐methyl acrylate (EMA) copolymer binder to facilitate wet‐slurry‐based fabrication of sulfide SE membranes. Significantly, by adjusting the ratio of polar and nonpolar groups, this methodology enables the binder to dissolve effectively in a toluene‐based slurry and also ensures good adhesion between the EMA binder and SE particles. The SE membrane prepared with EMA binder exhibits an ultra‐thin thickness (36 µm), flexibility, and excellent ionic conductivity (1.43 mS cm−1). The ASSB assembled with the SE membrane shows an excellent capacity retention rate of 92.9% after 120 cycles at 0.5 C. This work on the “polar‐nonpolar synergistic” finely‐tuned effect of binder provides insight for manufacturing high‐quality sulfide SE membranes.
Extracellular Silica Nanomatrices Promote In Vitro Maturation of Anti‐tumor Dendritic Cells via Activation of Focal Adhesion Kinase
Authors: Tam Sze Wah , Cheung Allen Ka Loon , Qin Ping , Zhang Shiqing , Huang Zhifeng , Yung Ken Kin Lam
Published: September 2024

The efficacy of dendritic cell (DC)‐based cancer vaccines is critically determined by the functionalities of in vitro maturated DCs. The maturation of DCs typically relies on chemicals that are cytotoxic or hinder the ability of DCs to efficiently activate the antigen‐specific cytotoxic T‐lymphocytes (CTLs) against tumors. Herein, the maturation chemicals are replaced with extracellular silica nanomatrices, fabricated by glancing angle deposition, to promote in vitro maturation of murine bone marrow‐derived DCs (mBMDCs). The extracellular nanomatrices composed of silica nanozigzags (NZs) enable the generation of mature mBMDCs with upregulated levels of co‐stimulatory molecules, C‐C chemokine receptor type‐7, X‐C motif chemokine recetpor‐1, DC‐specific ICAM‐3 grabbing nonintegrin, and enhanced endocytic capacity. The in vitro maturation is partially governed by focal adhesion kinase (FAK) that is mechanically activated in the curved cell adhesions formed at the DC‐NZ interfaces. The NZ‐maturated mBMDCs can prime the antigen‐specific CTLs into programmed cell death protein‐1 (PD‐1)lowCD44high memory phenotypes in vitro and suppress the growth of tumors in vivo. Meanwhile, the NZ‐mediated beneficial effects are also observed in human monocyte‐derived DCs. This work demonstrates that the silica NZs promote the anti‐tumor capacity of in vitro maturated DCs via the mechanoactivation of FAK, supporting the potential of silica NZs being a promising biomaterial for cancer immunotherapy.
A High‐Rate and Ultrastable Re2Te5/MXene Anode for Potassium Storage Enabled by Amorphous/Crystalline Heterointerface Engineering
Authors: Wu Bangjun , Zhang Yelong , Wang Zhongquan , Wang Zhonghua , Dong Zhen , Zeng Qingguang , Hui Kwun Nam , Liu Zheng , Peng Zhangquan
Published: September 2024

The pursuit of anode materials capable of rapid and reversible potassium storage performance is a challenging yet fascinating target. Herein, a heterointerface engineering strategy is proposed to prepare a novel superstructure composed of amorphous/crystalline Re2Te5 anchored on MXene substrate (A/C‐Re2Te5/MXene) as an advanced anode for potassium‐ion batteries (KIBs). The A/C‐Re2Te5/MXene anode exhibits outstanding reversible capacity (350.4 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g−1), excellent rate capability (162.5 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1), remarkable long‐term cycling capability (186.1 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 over 5000 cycles), and reliable operation in flexible full KIBs, outperforming state‐of‐the‐art metal chalcogenides‐based devices. Experimental and theoretical investigations attribute this high performance to the synergistic effect of the A/C‐Re2Te5 with a built‐in electric field and the elastic MXene, enabling improved pseudocapacitive contribution, accelerated charge transfer behavior, and high K+ ion adsorption/diffusion ability. Meanwhile, a combination of intercalation and conversion reactions mechanism is observed within A/C‐Re2Te5/MXene. This work offers a new approach for developing metal tellurides‐ and MXene‐based anodes for achieving stable cyclability and fast‐charging KIBs.
Multi‐Stimuli‐Responsive Carbon Dots with Intrinsic Photochromism and In Situ Radical Afterglow
Authors: Guo Zhenli , Bian Yanfang , Zhang Longyan , Zhang Jingyu , Sun Chengxi , Cui Dongyue , Lv Wenzhen , Zheng Chao , Huang Wei , Chen Runfeng
Published: September 2024

The combination of advanced photoluminescence characteristics to photochromism is highly attractive in preparing high‐performance multifunctional photo‐responsive materials for optoelectronic applications. However, this is rather challenging in material design owing to the limited mechanism understanding and construction principles. Here, an effective strategy to integrate photochromism and afterglow emission in carbon dots (CDs) is proposed through embedding naphthaleneimide (NI) structure in CDs followed by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) encapsulation. The NI‐structured CDs‐PVP shows intrinsic photochromism owing to the in situ formation of NI‐radical anions and controllable multi‐stimuli‐responsive afterglow behaviors related to the oxygen‐trigged triplet exciton quenching and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from the pristine CDs to the photoactivated CDs radicals. Notably, a wide range of appearance colors from colorless to brown, luminescence color transition from blue to yellow, and much elongated afterglow lifetime up to 253 ms are observed. With the extraordinary stimuli‐chromic and stimuli‐luminescent CDs‐PVP film dynamically responsive to multiple external stimuli, reversible secure snapchat, data encryption/decryption and synaptic imaging recognition are realized. These findings demonstrate a fundamental principle to design multi‐stimuli‐responsive photochromic CDs with afterglow, providing important understandings on the synergic mechanism of dynamic photochromism and emission behaviors and thereby expanding their applications in advanced information anti‐counterfeiting and artificial intelligence.
Polymer‐Ion Interaction Prompted Quasi‐Solid Electrolyte for Room‐Temperature High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Fangzheng , Wang Jiayi , Chen Wenyan , Yuan Mingman , Wang Qingrong , Ke Ruohong , Zhang Guangzhao , Chang Jian , Wang Chaoyang , Deng Yonghong , Wang Jun , Shao Minhua
Published: September 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries using quasi‐solid gel electrolytes (QSEs) have gained increasing interest due to their enhanced safety features. However, their commercial viability is hindered by low ionic conductivity and poor solid–solid contact interfaces. In this study, a QSE synthesized by in situ polymerizing methyl methacrylate (MMA) in 1,2–dimethoxyethane (DME)‐based electrolyte is introduced, which exhibits remarkable performance in high‐loading graphite||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) pouch cells. Owing to the unique solvent‐lacking solvation structure, the graphite exfoliation caused by the well‐known solvent co‐intercalation is prohibited, and this unprecedented phenomenon is found to be universal for other graphite‐unfriendly solvents. The high ionic conductivity and great interfacial contact provided by DME enable the quasi‐solid graphite||NCM811 pouch cell to demonstrate superior C‐rate capability even at a high cathode mass loading (17.5 mg cm‐2), surpassing liquid carbonate electrolyte cells. Meanwhile, the optimized QSE based on carbonates exhibits excellent cycle life (92.4% capacity retention after 1700 cycles at 0.5C/0.5C) and reliable safety under harsh conditions. It also outperforms liquid electrolytes in other high‐energy‐density batteries with larger volume change. These findings elucidate the polymer's pivotal role in QSEs, offering new insights for advancing quasi‐solid‐state battery commercialization.
Self‐Rectifying Short‐Term Memory Phenomena Through Integration of TiOx Oxygen Reservoir and Al2O3 Barrier Layers for Neuromorphic System
Authors: Ji Hyeonseung , Kim Sungjoon , Kim Sungjun
Published: September 2024

In this study, a tri‐layer Pt/Al/TiOx/HfOx/Al2O3/Pt memristor device is fabricated and analyze its electrical characteristics for reservoir computing and neuromorphic systems applications. This device incorporates an oxygen reservoir of a TiOx and a barrier layer of an Al2O3, enabling stable bipolar switching characteristics without the need for an electroforming process over 103 cycles. It also exhibits self‐rectifying properties under a negative bias. Based on these characteristics, it is investigated essential synaptic functions such as long‐term potentiation (LTP), long‐term depression (LTD), paired‐pulse facilitation (PPF), spike‐rate‐dependent plasticity (SRDP), spike‐duration‐dependent plasticity (SDDP), spike‐number‐dependent plasticity (SNDP), and spike‐amplitude‐dependent plasticity (SADP), to assess their suitability for neuromorphic applications that mimic biological synapses. Furthermore, utilizing the short‐term memory characteristics of the device, reservoir computing (RC) measurement from [0000] to [1111] in 4‐bit representation is conducted. This capability enables us to achieve a high accuracy of 95.5% in MNIST pattern recognition tasks. Lastly, the natural decay characteristics caused by oxygen ion migration in the device, examining the transition from short‐term to long‐term memory in image memorization tasks is explored. The potential for deployment in high‐density crossbar arrays by calculating the read margin based on the device I–V curve and programming scheme is also evaluated.
Biochemically Programmable Isothermal PCR
Authors: Kim MinGin , Ravisankar Vijay , Hassan Yassin A. , Ugaz Victor M.
Published: September 2024

Isothermal PCR can be performed by imposing a static temperature gradient that continuously circulates reagents through denaturing, annealing, and extension conditions inside a PCR tube. But despite early promise, these systems have yet to demonstrate performance and repeatability sufficient for adoption in validated laboratory tests because the rate‐limiting extension step is inherently short and cannot be increased independently of the other stages in a temperature cycle. Here, a discovery that enables isothermal PCR to be achieved with statistically robust repeatability that meets or exceeds diagnostic assay requirements (false positive/negative rate <8% at 95% confidence) by manipulating the interplay between the DNA replication biochemistry (via the amplicon GC content) and the microscale circulatory flow inside a PCR tube is reported. Surprisingly, optimal performance depends on selecting primer sequences that replicate high GC content amplicons, contradicting established PCR primer design rules. This innovative thermocycling approach accelerates PCR to speeds rivaling ultra‐fast instruments, enabling rapid, repeatable isothermal DNA analysis across a range of targets relevant to diagnostics and pathogen detection.
Evaluating ExpandED: Evaluating the effectiveness of a serious game expansion pack in teaching health professional students about interprofessional care
Authors: Fiala Clare , Ragothaman Sowmithree , Johl Gursukhmani , Sabbineni Monica , Wojkowski Sarah , Chan Teresa M.
Published: September 2024

Background

The emergency department (ED) is a challenging fast‐paced environment with high‐acuity, undifferentiated patients who often require extensive interdisciplinary care. This paper introduces ExpandED, an expansion pack to the serious board game GridlockED, designed to enhance players’ understanding of interprofessional collaboration in the ED and the diverse scope of practice of different ED professionals including physicians, residents, registered nurses, registered practical nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. This investigation evaluates the effectiveness of ExpandED as a teaching tool for medical and allied health professions students about interprofessional collaboration in the ED.

Methods

A program evaluation harnessing a playtest framework was employed. Participants completed pre‐ and postgame surveys including quantitative measures (e.g., Likert scales) and qualitative free‐text feedback that focused on participant familiarity with ED functioning, valuation of interprofessional collaboration before and after playing, and feedback on game usability and effectiveness.

Results

Recruitment was open to students in all health care and allied health professional programs at the institution. Forty‐five participants were recruited from medical doctor, nursing, physiotherapy, and speech language pathology programs. ExpandED enhances participants' understanding of ED workflow (p < 0.001) and provides an enjoyable playing experience. However, participants’ valuation of interdisciplinary teamwork did not change significantly before and after game play (p = 0.17). Participants expressed satisfaction with the game's accuracy in simulating the ED environment and appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with peers from different disciplines. Challenges reported included some tension among players, potential biases, and limitations of fidelity to a real‐life ED.

Conclusions

While this study has limitations regarding participant sampling and duration of gameplay sessions, it highlights the potential of ExpandED for teaching interprofessional collaboration in the ED. These findings will guide further development to optimize the expansion pack's effectiveness and its implementation into health care curricula.
Faculty consensus on competitiveness for the new competency‐based emergency medicine standardized letter of evaluation
Authors: Schnapp Benjamin , Sehdev Morgan , Schrepel Caitlin , Bord Sharon , Pelletier‐Bui Alexis , Alvarez Alai , Dubosh Nicole M. , Park Yoon Soo , Shappell Eric
Published: September 2024

Background

Emergency medicine (EM) has introduced a new, competency‐based standardized letter of evaluation (SLOE) template. While a previous version of the SLOE has been shown to promote a high degree of faculty consensus regarding competitiveness, this has not been shown for the new SLOE template.

Objective

The objective was to evaluate faculty consensus on competitiveness for the new EM SLOE 2.0.

Methods

Fifty mock SLOE 2.0 letters using the new template were drafted and sent to a group of experienced EM educators. The 50 letters were ranked by the experienced faculty as well as a point‐based prediction model and a regression model and the results were compared.

Results

Faculty consensus on competitiveness remained strong when using the new SLOE 2.0 format. The points‐based prediction model and regression model both demonstrated a high level of agreement with faculty consensus rankings for the SLOE 2.0.

Conclusions

Introduction of the new, competency‐based SLOE 2.0 format did not have a deleterious effect on faculty consensus rankings of competitiveness.
Ordered 2D RUB‐15 nanosheets with high loading in mixed matrix membranes for H2/CO2 separation
Authors: Yao Zhizhen , Cao Hongyan , Qu Kai , Wang Yixing , Xu Weiyi , Yi Zhiyuan , Li Qing , Huang Kang , Xu Zhi
Published: September 2024

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) combining functional fillers with polymer matrices hold promise for high‐efficiency separation. However, it remains a great challenge to enhance the loading to fully harness the capabilities of the fillers. Herein, we introduced RUB‐15 nanosheets as fillers for MMMs to approach parallel alignment of nanosheets within the matrix, thus achieving a high‐loading rate of up to 55 wt% and constructing fast and continuous mass transfer channels. The parallel orientation reduced the occurrence of defects, which played a critical role in enhancing separation. An optimized membrane with a 50 wt% loading rate exhibited exceptional H2/CO2 gas separation performance with H2 permeability of 1934 Barrer and selectivity of 44.5, maintaining a separation factor of 16.7 at 125°C. This study maximizes the performance of porous functional fillers within the membrane by enhancing gas separation capabilities through the ordered alignment of nanosheets and provides valuable insights for future membrane development.
Study on the effect of wet mixing process on the properties of EPDM rubber/fiber/hollow glass microsphere composite system
Authors: Wang Mingchao , Wang Yuan , Chen Xin , Liu Li , Zhang Yetao , Liu Chen
Published: September 2024

Compared to the traditional open mixing process used for the production of the rubber composites, wet mixing process is a lower shear force mixing method. This article revealed the influence of the open mixing process and the wet mixing process on the microstructure, density, mechanical properties, and ablation performance of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber/fiber/hollow glass microsphere composite system. The results showed that the wet mixing process increased the fiber length by more than 300% compared to the open mixing process, while the fragmentation rate of the hollow glass beads was reduced by 94.4%, these effectively maintained the structural integrity of the fibers and the hollow glass microsphere filler. By using the wet mixing process, the density of EPDM composite materials can be reduced by about 20%, and the tensile strength and ablation resistance of these composites were also significantly improved. Compared to polyimide fiber and aramid fiber short fibers, the wet mixing process of solution‐based rubber had a more significant effect on improving the length and ablation resistance of phenolic fiber and carbon fiber fibers which having poor shear strength.
Polyethersulfone ultrafiltration membranes co‐blended with amphiphilic polymers and nitrogen‐doped titanium dioxide nanoparticles for anti‐fouling and photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Jikui , Yan Jiani , Ma Deyi , Zou Xinquan , Ma Ruiyang , Bi Bodong , Sheng Yan , Zhang Kaixin
Published: September 2024

Polyethersulfone (PES) membranes have a high tendency to scale due to their inherent hydrophobicity, which limits their application and increases water treatment costs. To regulate the size of the pores of PES and prevent clogging, different qualities of poly(ethylene glycol)38‐block‐poly(propylene glycol)8 (PEG‐PPG) were introduced and screened for the best ratios. Further introduced synthesized nitrogen‐doped titanium dioxide (N‐TiO2), anti‐fouling and photocatalytic PES ultrafiltration membranes (N‐TiO2@M) were prepared. N‐TiO2@M3 exhibited bovine serum albumin rejection rate of 93.8% and achieved a methylene blue photocatalytic efficiency of 95.3% after 120 min of operation. Furthermore, N‐TiO2@M4 showcased a water contact angle of 41.0°. Notably, the pure water flux of N‐TiO2@M4 surged by 499.3% compared to that of PES membrane. The fouling resistance ratio for membrane flux witnessed an increase from 70.0% to 82.7%, demonstrating the enhanced durability of N‐TiO2@M4. Moreover, the comprehensive analysis for N‐TiO2@M4 revealed a total contamination rate of 40.2%. The irreversible contamination rate of N‐TiO2@M4 after 1 h of ultraviolet light (UV) cleaning was 5.7%, and the irreversible contamination rate after 1 h of visible light irradiation was 6.7%. The method for mixing N‐TiO2 and PEG‐PPG is straightforward and convenient, offering potential for the development of N‐TiO2@M with resistance to pollution and degradation in visible/UV light.
Ionic liquid‐polymeric membranes for CO2 separation: A new perspective on membrane integrity under pressure
Authors: Ferrari Henrique Z. , Polesso Bárbara , Gonzaga João Victor , Bernard Franciele , Dias Guilherme , Einloft Sandra
Published: September 2024

Membrane‐based CO2 separation is a promising technology compared to traditional processes, presenting advantages such as superior energy efficiency and reduced operational costs. This study investigates the enhancement of CO₂/N₂ separation performance by incorporating ionic liquid [hmim][Tf₂N] into polysulfone membranes. The membranes were produced with 5, 10, and 20 wt% IL, and their permeability was measured at 25°C under pressures of 1 and 4 bar. Stability tests were also conducted. At 1 bar, the membrane with 20 wt% IL exhibited the highest CO₂ permeability of 342.27 Barrer, while the membrane with 5 wt% IL demonstrated the best ideal selectivity for CO₂/N₂ of 27.87. At 4 bar, the membrane with 5 wt% IL showed the highest ideal selectivity for CO₂/N₂ of 40.81, with a CO₂ permeability of 144.26 Barrer. Leaching tests indicated potential integrity loss in ionic liquid composite polymer membranes at high pressures. Specifically, the CO₂ permeability of the PSF‐[hmim][Tf₂N] 5 wt% membrane increased continuously post‐testing due to IL leaching. However, the performance of the membranes remained stable at lower pressures (1 bar). These findings suggest that the produced membranes achieve higher permeability, CO₂/N₂ selectivity, and CO₂ diffusivity, making them suitable for post‐combustion gas separation applications.
Wormhole Mesoporous Silica Framework with Enhanced Thiol Loading for Improved Hg2+ Sequestration
Authors: Ghosh Sudipta , Mondal Shyamal , Kaur Rajwinder , Mondal Dhananjoy , Daripa Bishnu , Kumar Sinha Prasanta , Chandra Mondal Prakash , Das Sukhen , Dhar Anirban
Published: September 2024

Thiol‐functionalized mesoporous silica and materials potentially dedicated to diverse applications of composite materials, metal colloids, and metal catalysts, etc. Here, we developed a new synthesis route for 3‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane (MPTMS) functionalized mesoporous silica (KIT‐6), achieving a 71.5 % enhancement in thiol functionalization on KIT‐6 surfaces. Characterization using XRD, TEM, BET, FTIR, Raman, 29Si NMR, XPS, and ICP‐OES revealed structural and morphological features. XRD, TEM, and BET confirmed the three‐dimensional structural stabilization of mesoporous silica with ~4 nm pore diameter and a surface area of 1451 m2 g−1. FTIR, Raman, and 29Si NMR studies established the mechanism of thiol functionalization, the formation of a new wormhole chain structural framework (WCSF), and stabilization through hydrogen bonding within the mesopores. The 29Si NMR spectra showed characteristic peaks (T3, T2, Q4, Q3) indicating self‐condensed functionalized thiols with siloxane networks. XPS analysis validated enhanced thiol functionalization, indicating a structurally homogeneous WCSF suitable for mercury adsorption. ICP‐OES measured a mercury adsorption capacity of 3199.6 mg g−1 for KIT‐6, with an Hg2+/S ratio of 1.8, corroborated by molecular structure and mechanism analysis. This innovative thiol functionalization approach enhances the efficacy of applications such as extracting Hg2+ from contaminated sources.
Physical education in alternative provision schools: A case of spatial (in)justice?
Authors: Maher Anthony J. , Quarmby Thomas , Hooper Oliver , Wells Victoria , Slavin Lucy
Published: September 2024

Physical education has the potential to achieve the desired outcomes of alternative provision schooling by re‐engaging young people in learning, supporting their social and emotional development and facilitating their reintegration into mainstream schooling. To do so, however, it requires sufficient and appropriate space because, unlike other subjects, its focus on embodied curriculum, embodied pedagogy and embodied learning requires the mind–body–self of young people to move across, within and between space(s). As such, we embrace what Soja (Seeking Spatial Justice, University of Minnesota Press, 2010) termed the ‘spatial turn’ in research and draw on the concept of spatial (in)justice to explore social, economic and environment inequalities in the education and alternative provision landscapes in England. To do so, we gathered empirical evidence via individual interviews with 13 physical education practitioners working in alternative provision schools in England. With the permission of participants, interviews were audio‐recorded and audio transcribed, and the transcripts subjected to reflexive thematic analysis. We discuss spatial injustices in alternative provision physical education through the following themes: (1) accessing space for physical education off‐site; (2) low expectations for appropriate space and making the most of the limited space available for physical education; and (3) weather determining usage of outside space and difficulties gaining external funding for on‐site spaces. We end this article by calling on others to join our efforts to lobby government to ensure that alternative provision settings, new and old, are not exempt from the School Premises Regulations so that a clear, legally binding expectation is created so that sufficient space is provided to teach physical education.
Development of strontium aluminate‐printed nonwoven fabric from recycled cotton cellulose for smart wearable photochromic applications
Authors: Al‐Qahtani Salhah D. , Attia Yasser A. , Al‐Senani Ghadah M.
Published: September 2024

Smart photochromic and fluorescent textile refers to garments that alter their colorimetric properties in response to external light stimulus. Cotton fibers have been reported as a main resource for many textile and non‐textile industries, such as automobiles, medical devices, and furniture applications. Cotton is a natural fiber that is distinguished with breathability, softness, cheapness, and highly absorbent. However, there have been growing demands to find other resources for cotton textiles at high quality and low cost for various applications, such as sensor for harmful ultraviolet radiation. Herein, we present a novel method toward luminescent and photochromic nonwoven textiles from recycled cotton waste. Using the screen‐printing technology, a cotton fabric that is both photochromic and fluorescent was developed using aqueous inorganic phosphor nanoparticles (10–18 nm)‐containing printing paste. Both CIE Lab color coordinates and photoluminescence spectra showed that the transparent film printed on the nonwoven fabric develops a reversible green emission (519 nm) under ultraviolet light (365 nm), even at low pigment concentration (2%) in the printing paste. Colorfastness of printed fabrics showed high durability and photostability.
A quantitative survey of correctional mental health professionals on current healthcare and treatment practices for transgender incarcerated persons
Authors: Bakman Paige , Berry Frank , Graham‐Howard Marjorie
Published: September 2024

There is a need for updated survey literature collected from correctional mental health professionals working within prison settings. Up to date research can add to the literature addressing the best practices for mental health treatment of the transgender incarcerated population in order to provide health care professionals and correctional staff with more effective, efficient, and widely understood intervention practices to facilitate the well‐being and safety of this population. Guided by three research aims, 50 mental health professionals from 21 states throughout the United States were surveyed in this quantitative survey regarding their work with the transgender incarcerated population. Results are discussed in terms of implications for the type of care and coordination of care provided by correctional mental health professionals.
Prevalence and associated factors of sexting among Taiwanese adolescents
Authors: Wei Hsi‐Sheng , Hsieh Yi‐Ping , Chen Yi‐Fu , Ma Josef Kuo‐Hsun , Lin Yu‐Sheng
Published: September 2024

This study utilized a large‐scale representative sample to explore the prevalence of sexting and its associated factors among adolescents in Taiwan. A total of 12,954 students in grade 5–12 countrywide were randomly selected to answer the sexting module of an online survey. 13.7% of the respondents reported having ever received sexts on cellphone, and 2.0% had sent sexts to others. The prevalence was higher among older adolescents. Gender differences were also found, in which female students were more likely to receive sexts (15.8% vs. 11.7%), while male students were at higher risk of sending sexts to others (2.9% vs. 1.1%). A series of hierarchical logistic regression were further performed to examine the associations between potential factors and receiving/sending sexts as the outcome variables. Age, gender, and time spending on texting were significantly associated with receiving and ending sexts. Online respect was found positively associated with receiving sexts but negatively associated with sending them. Privacy awareness was found not significantly associated with sexting. As the first national survey on this growing issue in Taiwan, the results of the present study highlighted the existence of sexting among local youth. Practice and policy implications were discussed.
New clinical insights into the treatment of benign uretero‐ileal anastomotic stricture following radical cystectomy and urinary diversion
Authors: Mou Yixuan , Yao Cenchao , Liu Zhenghong , Zhang Pu , Qi Xiaolong , Zhang Dahong , Chen Yiyang , Yu Weiwen , Wang Shuai
Published: September 2024

Background

Benign uretero‐ileal anastomotic stricture (UIAS) is a potentially serious complication that can arise after radical cystectomy (RC) and subsequent urinary diversion. To preserve residual renal function and improve prognosis, it is crucial to derive insights from experience and tailor individualized treatment strategies for different patients.

Patients and Methods

From October 2014 to June 2021, a total of 47 patients with benign UIAS underwent endoscopic management (n = 19) or reimplantation surgery (n = 28). The basic data, perioperative conditions, and postoperative outcomes of the two groups were compared and analyzed to evaluate efficacy.

Results

Comparing preoperative and postoperative clinical efficacy within the same group, the endoscopic group showed no significant differences in creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels before surgery or after extubation (p > 0.05). However, significant differences were observed in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) levels on the affected side before surgery and after extubation (p < 0.05). In contrast, the laparoscopic reimplantation group did not exhibit significant differences in creatinine, BUN, or GFR levels of affected side before surgery and after extubation (p > 0.05). Postoperative clinical efficacy showed no significant difference in creatinine and BUN levels between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, GFR values of affected side in the endoscopic treatment group decreased more than those in the laparoscopic reimplantation group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the laparoscopic reimplantation group was able to remove the single‐J tube earlier than the endoscopic treatment group (p < 0.05), had a lower recurrence rate of hydronephrosis after extubation (p < 0.05), and experienced a later onset of hydronephrosis compared to the endoscopic treatment group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Based on our experience in treating UIAS following RC combined with urinary diversion, laparoscopic reimplantation effectively addresses the issue of UIAS, allowing for the removal of the ureteral stent relatively soon after surgery. This approach maintains long‐term ureteral patency, preserves residual renal function, reduces the risk of ureteral restenosis and hydronephrosis, and has demonstrated superior therapeutic outcomes in this study.
Essential Oil Extracted from Lippia sidoides Cham. (Verbenaceae) Induces Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis, and Antimigratory Effects in Melanoma Cells
Authors: Volpe‐Fix Andressa Roehrig , da Silva Sales Felipe , Caperuto Luciana Chagas , Lago João Henrique Ghilardi , Machado‐Jr Joel
Published: September 2024

Melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, poses a substantial global health threat with increasing incidence rates. Although novel targeted therapies have improved melanoma treatment, challenges persist due to poor response rates and drug resistance. Plant‐derived compounds have been crucial in anticancer drug discovery, with many natural products demonstrating the ability to target molecular pathways involved in tumor development. In this study, the anti‐melanoma potential of essential oil extracted from the aerial parts of Lippia sidoides Cham. (EO‐LS), composed mainly by the monoterpene thymol (96 %), was demonstrated. Obtained results demonstrated that EO‐LS disrupted critical cancer hallmarks in A2058 melanoma cells harboring the BRAFV600E mutation. Specifically, EO‐LS induced G1‐phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, as assessed by annexin‐V, caspase‐3 activity, and TUNEL assays. EO‐LS also inhibited cell migration and disrupted the AKT signaling pathway, which is a critical regulator of melanoma progression. Furthermore, a dose‐dependent increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was observed, indicating pro‐oxidant properties. These findings highlighted the significant in vitro anticancer properties of EO‐LS suggesting its potential as a promising molecular scaffold for developing of novel anti‐melanoma candidates.
A Novel Dipterocarpol Derivative That Targets Alpha‐Glucosidase and NLRP3 Inflammasome Activity for Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Danilov Roman D. , Smirnova Irina E. , Galimova Zarema I. , Sokolova Elena V. , Lukyanov Andrey V. , Kalitin Konstantin Y. , Mukha Olga Y. , Babkov Denis A. , Kazakova Oxana B. , Spasov Alexander A.
Published: September 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, chronic inflammation, impaired insulin secretion, and/or peripheral insulin resistance. Current α‐glucosidase inhibitors approved for clinical use exhibit limited efficacy compared to other glucose‐lowering agents. In this study, a series of mono‐ and bis‐benzylidene derivatives were synthesized via aldol condensation of 3‐oxo‐dammarane triterpenoids with terephthalic aldehyde. The target mono‐ and bis‐benzylidene derivatives, based on the dammarane triterpenoids hollongdione 1, (20S)‐23,24‐epoxy‐25,26,27‐trinordammar‐3,24‐dione 2, and 24(R,S)‐20(S)‐epoxy‐25‐hydroxy‐dammar‐3‐one 3, were successfully synthesized. Several of these inhibitors demonstrated significantly greater efficacy than the reference drug acarbose. Notably, compound 4 inhibited S. cerevisiae α‐glucosidase with an IC50 of 2.67 μM. Furthermore, the target compounds effectively inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation, reducing IL‐1β production in LPS+ATP‐stimulated murine peritoneal macrophages without detectable cytotoxicity. Compound 8, which exhibited dual activity, was further characterized as an inhibitor of NLRP3 activation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, leading to the prevention of pyroptosis and IL‐1β release. Additionally, compound 8 was shown to promote neuronal survival in LPS+ATP‐treated rat hippocampal slices, highlighting its potential as a promising antidiabetic agent that targets both postprandial hyperglycemia and metaflammation.
Heterocyclic Compounds as CDK9 Inhibitors: Structural Diversity, Mechanism of Action, and Therapeutic Potential in Cancer and Beyond
Authors: Bose Kuntal , Shajahan Afiya , Sreekumar Nandana , Aneesh T. P.
Published: September 2024

Cyclin‐dependent kinases (CDKs) are crucial proteins involved in key cellular processes, such as cell division and transcription. Their dysregulation plays a significant role in cancer development. Inhibiting cyclin‐dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) impacts several survival pathways in cancer cells, presenting a promising therapeutic approach for various cancers. CDK9, in association with cyclin T1, forms the positive transcription elongation factor b (P‐TEFb) complex, which phosphorylates the C‐terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II (Pol II). This phosphorylation promotes the transition from transcription initiation to elongation. This review examines recent advancements in CDK9 modulators, with a particular emphasis on compounds currently in clinical trials.
Aldehyde‐based Activation of C2α‐lactylthiamin Diphosphate Decarboxylation on Bacterial 1‐deoxy‐d‐xylulose 5‐phosphate Synthase
Authors: Toci Eucolona M. , Majumdar Ananya , Meyers Caren L. Freel
Published: September 2024

1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulose 5‐phosphate synthase (DXPS) catalyzes the thiamin diphosphate (ThDP)‐dependent formation of DXP from pyruvate (donor substrate) and d‐glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate (d‐GAP, acceptor substrate) in bacterial central metabolism. DXPS uses a ligand‐gated mechanism in which binding of a small molecule “trigger” activates the first enzyme‐bound intermediate, C2α‐lactylThDP (LThDP), to form the reactive carbanion via LThDP decarboxylation. d‐GAP is the natural acceptor substrate for DXPS and also serves a role as a trigger to induce LThDP decarboxylation in the gated step. Additionally, we have shown that O2 and d‐glyceraldehyde (d‐GA) can induce LThDP decarboxylation. We hypothesize this ligand‐gated mechanism poises DXPS to sense and respond to cellular cues in metabolic remodeling during bacterial adaptation. Here we sought to characterize features of small molecule inducers of LThDP decarboxylation. Using a combination of CD, NMR and biochemical methods, we demonstrate that the α‐hydroxy aldehyde moiety of d‐GAP is sufficient to induce LThDP decarboxylation en route to DXP formation. A variety of aliphatic aldehydes also induce LThDP decarboxylation. The study highlights the capacity of DXPS to respond to different molecular cues, lending support to potential multifunctionality of DXPS and its metabolic regulation by this mechanism.
Toward Artificial Photosynthetic Assemblies Inspired by Photosynthetic Bacteria
Authors: Han Yifei , Li Zhan‐Ting , Tian Jia
Published: September 2024

The photosynthetic assemblies in bacteria, as critical structures in early evolutionary photosynthesis, are pivotal for understanding the molecular mechanisms of photosynthesis and for the design of artificial photosynthetic systems. In recent decades, various artificial systems based on synthetic molecules have been developed to mimic these photosynthetic assemblies from structures to functions. This review summarizes the latest advancements in mimicking the photosynthetic assembly systems, discussing three fundamental models: the chlorosome and related complexes in green bacteria, the chromatophore and reaction center system in purple bacteria, and the phycobilisome and photosystem II (PSII) in cyanobacteria, along with their representative mimicking systems. We also address the challenges and unexplored areas in the simulation of photosynthetic systems.
Two‐Fold Oxidative Coupling of Furan with Indole Provides Modular Access to a New Class of Tetra‐(Hetero)Arylated Furans with Up to Four Different Substituents
Authors: Mhaske Krishna , Gangai Shon , Taneja Neha , Narayan Rishikesh
Published: September 2024

Highly arylated propeller‐shaped heteroarenes constitute an intriguing class of molecular scaffolds for material science applications. Among these, tetraarylated furans demonstrate differentiated properties as compared to other similar heterocyclic cores. The synthetic complexity to access tetraarylated furans increases significantly with increasing number of different peripheral aryl groups. There are only a very limited number of methodologies available to access furans with four different (hetero)aryl substituents. Notably, none of these involve direct oxidative coupling on the furan core as the method of choice. Herein, we report the first methodology based on a sequential two‐fold oxidative C−C coupling of furans with indoles to access bis(indolyl)furans (BIFs) ‐ a new class of ‘extremely congested’ tetra‐(hetero)arylated furans with up to four different substituents. The reaction is mediated by inexpensive, earth‐abundant FeCl3⋅6H2O and displays high efficiency, wide substrate scope, modularity and aqueous compatibility. Moreover, we also present the first validation of the distinct aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) property of the tetraarylated furans beyond only phenyls as peripheral groups and disclose new mechanistic underpinnings for the same.
High Efficiency and Total Decomposition of Water by Pt−CoFe@CC Catalyst Loaded with a Small Amount of Pt
Authors: Bi Yanqin , Zhao Zenghua , Qian Jianhua , Chen Liangliang , Duan Chunyang
Published: September 2024

The development of bifunctional electrocatalysts coupled with HER and OER activities in the same electrolyte to achieve overall water decomposition is more attractive and challenging for practical applications. Here, we prepared a CoFe‐LDH catalyst via a hydrothermal method, and grew highly dispersed Pt−CoFe@CC bifunctional catalyst on a carbon cloth via the ethylene glycol thermal reduction method. The low content of Pt was limited to CoFe‐LDH to balance the catalytic performance and cost, to achieve effective water decomposition. Surprisingly, the overall decomposition of water can be achieved with a voltage of only 1.6 V and good stability for up to 20 hours. This work provides a design idea and method for combining HER and OER bifunctional electrocatalysts.
A Novel Approach to the Structural Design of Dual‐State Emission Luminogens by Combining Tetraphenylethylene with Anthracene via Dihydroisoxazole
Authors: Lu Wenjun , Zhao Yingyi , Sun Baiwang
Published: September 2024

Dual‐state emission luminescent materials (DSEgens), which exhibit bright emissions in boththe solid state and solution, have been attracting research interest in the design of multifunctional materials.The delicate manipulation of molecular structures remains challenging in the synthesis of DSEgens. In this article, two novel molecules with dual‐state emission were synthesized by combining tetraphenylethylene with anthracene via dihydroisoxazole. Tetraphenylethylene acts as a solid‐state emitter, while the anthracene core functions as an emitter in the solution state to achieve DSE fluorescence properties. The THF/DCM mixture resulted in successfully obtaining the crystal structures of TPE−An−H and TPE−An−Cl. The quantum yields (QYs) of TPE−An−H were 31 % and 42 % in EA and the solid state, respectively, while TPE−An−Cl exhibited QYs of 32 % and 34 %. The novel synthesis method in this paper combines AIE with ACQ via dihydroisoxazole to achieve dual‐state emission, offering a new and concise approach.