Browse Articles
Discover research articles across all indexed journals
Extreme longitudinal thermal conductivity and non-diffusive heat transport in isotopic hBN
Abstract We measure the temperature profile and investigate the thermal conductivity of suspended monoisotopic hexagonal boron nitride (h 10 BN) heterostructures by combining suspended microbridge technique and Raman spectroscopy. The thermal conductivities exceed 1650 W.m −1 .K −1 at room temperature, significantly higher than in previous reports, highlighting the crucial influence of the measurement conditions on the experimental results. By including more data points, we refine our models beyond the accuracy of conventional approaches. Our results show a striking deviation of thermal transport from the classical diffusion regime described by Fourier’s law: while the temperature profiles are linear above 300 K, they become clearly nonlinear below this temperature, indicating a strong non-diffusive heat transport regime. This behavior underscores the need for a new theoretical framework to fully account for heat transport in two-dimensional materials. Ultimately, our findings pave the way for innovative heat dissipation technologies and challenge conventional paradigms in nano-heat engineering. This study establishes a practical framework linking Raman-based temperature mapping, the number of measurement points, and thermal simulations to reliably determine the in-plane thermal conductivity of 2D materials.
Electron Transfer Mediator–Enabled Modular Control of <sup>1</sup> O <sub>2</sub> and O <sub>2</sub> <sup>•–</sup> Generation in Porphyrin Supramolecular Frameworks for Selective Photosynthesis
ABSTRACT The inherent preference of classical type II photosensitizers for generating singlet oxygen ( 1 O 2 ) via energy transfer presents a key challenge in developing type I systems capable of producing superoxide radicals (O 2 •– ) through electron transfer. Herein, we report a porphyrin‐based supramolecular organic framework (SOF, TPP‐BPY‐CB[8]) assembled via host–guest interactions with cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]), which achieves a significantly enhanced 1 O 2 quantum yield (94.04%) compared to the monomeric unit TPP‐BPY (74.52%). To overcome the energy transfer‐dominated reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathway, a series of electron transfer mediators were introduced to modulate the excited‐state dynamics, resulting in BQ@TPP‐BPY‐CB[8] that effectively switches the ROS pathway from type II to type I. This mediator‐driven modulation not only enables O 2 •– production under hypoxic conditions but also expands the functional diversity of the SOF system. The two ROS pathways are selectively leveraged in photocatalytic applications: TPP‐BPY‐CB[8] excels in 1 O 2 ‐mediated oxidation of organophosphorus compounds, while BQ@TPP‐BPY‐CB[8] facilitates highly efficient thiol‐ene cross‐coupling via O 2 •– promotion. This work presents a robust strategy for tailoring ROS generation in supramolecular photocatalysis, offering a new design paradigm for multifunctional, ROS‐directed photoreactive materials.
Maternal hyperuricemia and adverse neonatal outcomes in normotensive pregnancies: Evidence from a prospective cohort study in Eastern Uganda
Background Maternal hyperuricemia is a potential biomarker of adverse pregnancy outcomes, but evidence among normotensive women in low- and middle-income countries is limited. We aimed to assess the association between elevated maternal serum uric acid (SUA) levels and adverse neonatal outcomes. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda, from 1 st October 2024–1 st February 2025, enrolling 352 normotensive women in latent labor. SUA was measured using gestational-age–specific cutoffs, classifying women as hyperuricemic or normouricemic. Outcomes included preterm birth, small-for-gestational-age (SGA) birth, stillbirth, and low Apgar score. Poisson regression with robust standard errors estimated adjusted relative risks (aRR) and 95% confidence intervals. Results Adverse neonatal outcomes occurred in 37.5% of participants. Hyperuricemic women had significantly higher composite risk (62.5% vs. 12.5%; aRR = 4.32, 95% CI 2.92–6.39). Hyperuricemia independently predicted preterm birth (aRR = 3.63, 95% CI 1.70–7.72), SGA (aRR = 2.80, 95% CI 1.61–4.86), and stillbirth (aRR = 5.00, 95% CI 1.47–16.99). Maternal age ≥ 40 years, low education, < 4 antenatal visits, previous preterm birth, previous stillbirth, and obesity were also associated with adverse outcomes. Conclusions. Maternal hyperuricemia is a strong predictor of preterm birth, SGA, and stillbirth. Routine SUA screening during antenatal care, combined with closer monitoring of high-risk women, could help improve neonatal outcomes.
Enantiospecific Optical Sensing of Terpenes by an Aggregated Atropisomeric Platinum(II) Complex
Abstract Terpenes are unfunctionalized small volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are naturally abundant, relevant to climate change, and impose potential health risks. Herein, we report a conceptually novel approach for the enantiospecific recognition of terpenes and other VOCs based on a square planar platinum(II) complex with an atropisomeric ligand. This molecular design results in chiral aggregated nanostructures caused by weak π‐π‐ and metal–metal interactions with characteristic UV–vis absorption bands. Distinct UV–vis absorption changes are induced by weak intermolecular interactions with the enantiomers of diverse VOCs (2‐butanol, 1‐phenylethanol, α‐pinene, and limonene) leading to perturbations of the chiral aggregates. This allows an enantiospecific, reversible detection of VOCs by UV–vis absorption spectroscopy in nonpolar solution. The study provides a new working principle for enantiospecific recognition with artificial optoelectronic noses, which are particularly promising for determining the enantiomers of unfunctionalized volatile organics.
Social inequities and clinical outcomes in young women with cervical cancer: Real-world evidence
Objective To assess the influence of social inequities and clinicopathological factors on survival outcomes in young women with cervical cancer treated at a comprehensive public cancer center in Brazil. Methods This retrospective analysis reviewed the medical records of women aged 18–39 diagnosed with cervical cancer at the Brazilian National Cancer Institute between January 2017 and December 2021, assessing demographic characteristics and survival outcomes. Results This analysis included 475 patients with a mean age of 33.6 years, with the majority being non-white (67.7%), never married women (68.0%), and having a low education level (< 8 years) (86.1%). Multivariate analysis indicated that a lower education level was associated with advanced stage (p = 0.001). Recurrence or progression occurred in 224 patients (47.2%), mainly as distant metastases (56.7%). The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 19.8 months, with two-year rates of 81.6%, 45.7%, 28.2%, and 6.2% for stages I, II, III, and IV, respectively. Shorter PFS was correlated with lower education level (p = 0.009), alcohol consumption (p = 0.026), undifferentiated carcinoma (p = 0.007), and advanced disease stage (p < 0.001). The median overall survival (OS) was 35.1 months, with five-year rates of 82.9%, 42.7%, 23.7%, and 9.7% for stages I, II, III, and IV, respectively. Factors associated with shorter OS included lower education level (p = 0.005), undifferentiated carcinoma (p = 0.006), and advanced stage (p < 0.001). Conclusion Undifferentiated carcinomas and advanced stages negatively influence the prognosis of young women with cervical cancer. Social factors may also be correlated with poorer outcomes, especially alcohol consumption and lower education levels.
Dual‐Site Geometry Mediates Dynamic LiO <sub>2</sub> Binding for Efficient Lithium–Oxygen Batteries
ABSTRACT Lithium–oxygen batteries (LOBs) offer high energy density through multi‐electron transfer, but their 2e − pathway generates unstable intermediates such as lithium superoxide (LiO 2 ), leading to complex reaction kinetics and poor reversibility. Herein, we propose an electronegativity‐mediated strategy to dynamically regulate LiO 2 binding on catalyst surfaces. By tuning the geometry and spacing of dual‐active sites (DAS), we reshape orbital interactions and coordination environments, enabling precise control over electron density and adsorption‐desorption microenvironments. This atomic‐scale regulation establishes a “bridged adsorption” mode that stabilizes key intermediates, optimizes Li‐O bond activation, and enhances the “adsorption‐activation‐dissociation” sequence of reactive species. Consequently, lithium–oxygen batteries exhibit high capacity and prolonged cycling stability. More broadly, we identify a universal DAS spacing descriptor that integrates symmetry breaking with electronic configuration, providing a general design principle to overcome linear scaling relationships (LSRs) and unlock intrinsic catalytic activity for oxygen electrocatalysis.
Revealing undergraduate biology students’ conception of variability and error bars within graphing
Creating and interpreting graphs are quantitative reasoning skills all science, technology, engineering, and math students need to develop. In biology, data are lacking in our understanding of how undergraduate students interpret variability across different graph types or what knowledge students have about the data error bars represent. This study analyzed 3506 student responses within a graphing assessment. We developed a code book for students’ open-ended responses on the data error bars represent and used chi-square tests to look for significant differences in how students described error bars based on a graph they created and self-reported demographic data. We observed four major categories in how students described error bars: broad terms, error terms, purpose terms, and trend & analysis terms. When responses were linked with a graph the student made, those who created a bar graph with a bar for each data point showed lower understanding of error bars compared to students who themselves created a bar graph with aggregated means and error bars. We also observed differences in how students described error bars based on their major but did not observe differences based on whether students were in introductory or upper-level courses. Our results suggest that students are not receiving enough instruction on variability within graphing even though bar graphs with error bars are a common graph that students are asked to construct. More scaffolded repeated instruction is needed across biology curricula.
Temperature‐Potential Coupled Regulation of LiPF <sub>6</sub> Decomposition to Construct LiF Grain Boundary‐Rich Interphase on Graphite Anode for Fast‐Charging Li‐Ion Batteries
ABSTRACT Regulating the electrolyte decomposition to evolve a LiF‐rich solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) can reduce the energy barrier of the interfacial Li‐ion transport toward fast‐charging lithium‐ion batteries. Due to the sluggish decomposition kinetics, LiPF 6 , as a widely used Li salt in commercial cells, is unable to build a LiF‐rich SEI. Therefore, expensive fluorinated electrolyte additives are needed. Herein, to eliminate the use of extra fluorinated species, based on the subtle electrochemical decomposition of LiPF 6 occurring ∼2.28 V vs. Li + /Li at 80°C, we developed a temperature‐potential coupled formation (TPCF) protocol, which incorporates a constant‐voltage step (2.28 V) at 80°C to stimulate LiPF 6 decomposition deeply, thereby generating a high‐quality SEI uniformly covering the graphite particle surfaces. This TPCF‐derived SEI is thin and dense, full of LiF grain boundaries, which could reduce the energy barriers of Li + desolvation and interfacial Li + diffusion. Simultaneously, this SEI exhibits a higher work function, effectively suppressing electron leakage to reduce the degeneration of the electrolyte and interphase. Consequently, after a simple TPCF process, the assembled graphite||LiFePO 4 full cell achieves stable cycling at a 6C rate, retaining 80% of its capacity after 3304 cycles and 70.5% after 8940 cycles, outperforming the counterparts.
Effects of fibroblast growth factor 2 on muscle precursor cells from mouse limb and extraocular muscle
Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) is known to play a role in skeletal muscle development and growth. We examined two populations of myogenic precursor cells for their responses to FGF2 in vitro using both extraocular and limb skeletal muscle. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) was used to isolate two different populations of myogenic precursor cells, the EECD34 cells (positive for CD34, and negative for Sca1, CD31, and CD45) and PAX7-positive cells, from tibialis anterior and extraocular muscles of mice. These cells were cultured and treated with either proliferation or differentiation media in the absence or the presence of FGF2, followed by assays to determine the effects on proliferation and differentiation. EECD34 cells and PAX7-positive cells from both muscles responded to FGF2 with significantly increased proliferation. Both myogenic precursor cell populations from each muscle type showed increased percentage of desmin-positive mononucleated cells, but decreased rates of fusion into multinucleated myotubes in the presence of FGF2 in this in vitro system relative to control cells. FGF2 has pleiotropic effects on skeletal muscles. Contrary to the literature, FGF2 did not inhibit differentiation, but did appear to decrease fusion into multinucleated myofibers in vitro . Examination of immunostaining for myomerger in differentiating PAX7-positive cells in the presence or absence of FGF2 demonstrated a significant reduction of expression in the presence of elevated FGF2 levels. These results provide a potential mechanism for reduction in myofiber number and size in the extraocular muscles in individuals with Apert syndrome, where FGF receptor 2 mutations maintain the receptor in an activated state resulting in significantly reduced myofiber size.
Unveiling the Superior Birefringence Property of a Record‐Birefringent Crystal with Unique Building Block
Abstract Despite being crucial for various advanced optical components, obtaining optically anisotropic crystals with giant birefringence (e.g., Δ n ≥ 1.0) remains a formidable challenge. Prevailing strategies typically rely on enhancing the π‐delocalization of molecular building blocks by cyclic polymerization. Here, we demonstrate a new approach—simply connecting the π‐conjugated rings along a specific direction via linear polymerization. This concept is well exemplified by a novel hybrid crystal, BIQCdCl 4 (BIQ = C 18 H 14 N 2 , the protonated form of 2,2′‐biquinoline). Although in accordance with Hückel's rule, the π‐electrons within two quinoline subunits are not fully delocalized over the entire BIQ molecule, this compound exhibits a record‐high birefringence value of Δ n exp = 1.017@546 nm, surpassing all commercial birefringent crystals and many newly developed birefringent crystals, thereby setting a new benchmark for such materials. Detailed electronic structure investigation indicates that while the C─C linkage limits π‐delocalization extension, linear polymerization enhances the disparity in the in‐plane ( X , Y ) π‐electron distribution, thereby maximizing the polarizability contrast between two specific polarization directions (i.e., Y and Z ). This leads to exceptional polarizability anisotropy of the BIQ molecules, which, combined with their uniform alignment directed by [CdCl 4 ] tetrahedra and hydrogen bonding, ultimately results in the giant birefringence of BIQCdCl 4 .
Association of hand grip strength with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in the Korean population: A large-scale cross-sectional study
Background Low hand grip strength (HGS) is associated with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but no studies have simultaneously examined the associations of OA/RA with HGS indices. The objective was to examine the associations between absolute/relative HGS and the risk of OA, RA, and combined OA and RA (OR-arthritis). Methods This large-scale cross-sectional study was based on data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. A complex survey sample design was applied to the entire Korean population. Associations of OA, RA, and OR-arthritis with HGS and anthropometric indices were examined by binary logistic regression in unadjusted and adjusted analyses. Results The prevalence of OA and RA was 8.2% and 1.1%, respectively, in men and 26.9% and 2.2%, respectively, in women. The prevalence of OR-arthritis was 1.4% in women. In men, OA was strongly associated with the waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and HGS in both hands divided by the WHtR. RA had the strongest association with HGS in the dominant hand divided by waist circumference (WC) and with HGS in the dominant hand divided by WHtR. In women, OA showed a strong association with body mass index. RA was strongly associated with HGS in both hands and HGS in the dominant hand divided by height. Finally, OR-arthritis was strongly related to HGS in both hands divided by WC and HGS in both hands divided by weight. Discussion The prevalence of OA was much greater than that of RA in both sexes. We found that the best index among anthropometric, absolute HGS, and relative HGS indices differed according to OA, RA, and OR-arthritis status and sex. The clinical implication of this study is that the association between RA and HGS was greater than that between OA and HGS in both sexes.
Leveraging Diamines to Unlock the Mn‐MACHO Catalyst in the Reduction of CO <sub>2</sub> to Methanol
Abstract The conversion of CO 2 into energy‐dense liquid fuels, such as methanol, represents a cornerstone of sustainable chemistry; however, most homogeneous catalytic systems still rely on noble metals or Lewis acid additives. Here, we report the first protocol for amine‐assisted CO 2 hydrogenation to methanol using a Mn–MACHO catalyst without any Lewis acid co‐catalyst, achieving turnover numbers up to 45.2, the highest reported for Mn systems. A combined computational, microkinetic, and experimental study reveals that diamines dramatically enhance activity compared to monoamines by promoting a highly exergonic double amidation step. This thermodynamic driving force shifts the equilibrium away from formate resting states toward the active catalyst, thereby accelerating methanol formation. The correlation established between amidation free energies (Δ G amidation ) and methanol productivity provides a rational design principle for tailoring amine promoters across Ru‐ and Mn‐based MACHO catalysts. These insights advance the development of sustainable, base‐metal‐catalyzed CO 2 conversion strategies and open opportunities for integrated carbon capture and utilization.
Detecting the body’s reproductive hormonal brake against tissue overgrowth: Micrin/SgII-70
A new humoral factor has been detected, within a project aiming to disclose the body’s reproductive hormonal brake against tissue overgrowth, micrin (‘my-crin’). Factor purification involved fractionation of ovine and bovine ovarian follicular fluid and blood plasma and serum, with evaluation via rat bioassays in vivo and in vitro. Analysis averse, the molecular effector provided a chemical conundrum. Evidence from mass spectrometry (MS) is problematic, with spectra from MALDI-TOF, the only productive MS modality, confused by a target polypeptide exhibiting artefacts during processing, storage and MALDI set-up in terms of C-terminal truncation and water losses, along with dimerization (C-terminally truncated fragments doubled up). Evidence from chemical sequencing of amino acid (aa) residues is likewise confusing, but consistent with a spiralised depolymerisation within the Edman reaction chamber of a unitary polypeptide. Data decryption has overcome molecular intractability, supported by the results of tryptic digestion and epitope mapping using immunohistochemistry (IHC). The detected inhibitory factor relates to secretogranin II (SgII), the neurosecretory prohormone, in the form of a secreted acidic 70-aa polypeptide derivative called here SgII-70 (‘sig two seventy’). The product of peptide splicing, micrin/SgII-70 is a twisted amphipathic molecule, with ends entwined (via salt bridging), the complex knotted structure confounding Edman and MALDI analyses, as well as computational molecular modelling, whilst conferring protease and heat resistance. Hexapeptide mimetics simulating both ends of the hormone together have been demonstrated in different species and settings in antiorganotrophism (tissue reduction via fewer, smaller cells) and reproductive modulation (more offspring). There are potential clinical applications for agonists in tissue overgrowth conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS, BPH and cancer, and for micrin antagonists in infertility.
Sulfone–Isoquinoline Dopants Activated Phosphorescence Beyond Room Temperature
ABSTRACT Purely organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials are of growing interest for bioimaging, anti‐counterfeiting, and optoelectronic applications. However, impurity‐induced RTP has challenged the reliability of many reported single‐component systems. Herein, we systematically investigated a series of sulfone‐based RTP materials and observed that their phosphorescence vanished upon rigorous purification, highlighting the critical role of trace impurities. Notably, the introduction of only 0.01 wt% of a rationally designed sulfone–isoquinoline dopant (SO2PzQ7) into the pure SF2Pz system effectively activated intense yellow afterglow with a lifetime of 273 ms under ambient conditions. The doped system exhibited exceptional thermal stability, maintaining a visible afterglow up to 413 K. Notably, the phosphorescence signal almost completely recovered upon cooling after heating, and the on–off switching process was repeatable for more than six cycles, demonstrating excellent reversibility. This strategy was further extended to sulfone derivatives containing carbazole and phenothiazine units, which were RTP‐inactive alone but became RTP‐active upon doping with rationally designed sulfone–isoquinoline dopants. Theoretical calculations support a host–guest energy transfer mechanism that facilitates efficient intersystem crossing (ISC) and triplet‐state stabilization. Our findings highlight the crucial role of impurity traps in RTP and propose a generalizable, scalable approach to construct reproducible and thermally stable organic RTP systems.
Enhanced soil attributes, yield and fruit quality of Medjool date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in response to filter mud/cake for drylands sustainability
Soils of drylands in arid and semiarid conditions need developing approaches to improve the holding capacity of water and nutrients to avoid desertification. In this study, we examine the characteristics of filter mud/cake under the intended conditions and verify the additional value of employing it as a byproduct of the sugarcane industry, avoiding its negative impacts on the environment. This was accomplished in two prosperous seasons in 2022 and 2023 by using uniform Medjool date palms ( Phoenix dactylifera L.) that were ancient, vigorous, fruiting, and healthy at a private farm in Dakhla Oasis, New Valley Governorate, Egypt. The application of filter mud as a soil amendment significantly led to better results in all parameters under investigation, i.e., soil attributes, yield parameters, and fruit quality, compared to the additive of animal and poultry manure used separately. However, the results suggested applying filter mud mixed to poultry manure (T6), that showed better results compared to other treatments, i.e., water content at field capacity (WFC) were 12.58 and 12.59%, whereas NPK content in soil were 35.23 and 35.25 mg/kg N, 5.33 and 5.37 mg/kg P, 61.21 and 61.18 mg/kg K in both seasons 2022 and 2023, respectively. Moreover, T6 treatment showed the best results of yield per date palm tree, i.e., 65 and 66 Kg with the highest fruit quality indicators, i.e., 8 and 8.1 cm fruit length, 2.7 and 2.8 cm fruit diameter in both seasons as respectively. The study presented filter mud as promising application for soil amendment in arid and semiarid conditions with direct contribution to key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Subsequently, enhancing soil health and sustainable agriculture (SDG 2: Zero Hunger), fostering green innovation in by-product valorization (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and promoting the sustainable management and reduction of industrial waste (SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production).
Building Molecules by a Self‐Replicator That Catalyzes Acyl Hydrazone Formation
Abstract Catalysis of bond‐forming reactions is key to the development of life‐like chemical systems as it allows to build up new material, increasing molecular complexity and diversity. Integrating catalysis with other characteristic properties of life, like self‐replication, represents an important advance in the transition from chemistry to life. We have previously shown that catalysis can emerge in synthetic self‐replicators that form through supramolecular assembly. However, the organocatalyzed reactions were solely bond‐breaking so far. We now report the successful expansion of the catalytic promiscuity of these systems to bond‐forming reactions. We show that a self‐replicator efficiently catalyzes acyl hydrazone formation between different hydrazides and aldehydes. This marks an important step towards the further development of evolvable systems that combine metabolic activity with self‐replication.
Glucose dysregulation in hospitalized non-critically ill patients with a suspected infection: A prospective study using continuous glucose monitoring
Introduction Dysglycaemia, defined as hypo- or hyperglycaemia, can occur during infection and is associated with worse outcomes during hospitalization. Previous studies on dysglycaemia in non-critically ill patients on general wards used point-of-care (POC) capillary measurements, possibly underestimating the problem. We assessed the prevalence and course of dysglycaemia in this population using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Methods In this prospective, observational study at the University Medical Center Groningen, adults admitted to the Emergency Department with suspected infections were enrolled via the Acutelines data and biobank. Participants wore blinded CGM sensors (FreeStyle Libre Pro iQ) while continuing usual care. Episodes of dysglycaemia were defined as ≥15 minutes of glucose <3.9 mmol/L or >10 mmol/L. Primary outcome was the number of dysglycaemic episodes; secondary outcomes included duration, glucose levels, and associations with clinical outcomes. Results CGM data from 90 participants (27% with a history of diabetes and 73% without) over a median of 3.4 days revealed 181 hyperglycaemia and 303 hypoglycaemia episodes. In patients with a history of diabetes, 75% experienced hyperglycaemia (median of 6.5 events/patient). In contrast, 33% of individuals without prior diabetes experienced hyperglycaemia (median 1.5 events/ patient). Median Time in Range (glucose 3.9–10.0 mmol/L) was 59% for patients with and 86% for patients without known diabetes. Exploratory analyses showed no significant association between dysglycaemia and ICU admission or 30-day mortality. Conclusions This observational study provides relevant insight into dysglycaemia among non-critically ill patients admitted to the hospital. Significant hyperglycaemia was observed in both participants with and without known diabetes. Therefore, CGM may enable earlier detection of dysglycaemia and thereby inform future interventional research and in-hospital strategies.
Molecular‐Scale Tuning of Low‐Molecular‐Weight Gelators Controls Supramolecular Assembly and Directs Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Growth
Abstract We report the synthesis and characterization of a simple alcohol‐functionalized low‐molecular‐weight gelator (LMWG) based on a 1,3:2,4‐dibenzylidenesorbitol scaffold (DBS‐CH 2 OH) and explore its self‐assembly in comparison to acylhydrazide‐functionalized DBS‐CONHNH 2 . DBS‐CH 2 OH forms a stiffer, highly organized, less‐soluble self‐assembled hydrogel, with a different assembly mode and much higher entropy/enthalpy of dissociation. On mixing, the LMWGs co‐assemble into gel nanofibers with similar thermodynamics to DBS‐CONHNH 2 . DBS‐CH 2 OH is an excellent scaffold for the growth of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), which exhibit extended spread‐shaped morphologies on the gel surface. In contrast, for DBS‐CONHNH 2 , hMSCs have a rounded morphology and penetrate into the softer gel. A simple functional group change on the LMWG, therefore, leads to a remarkable change in cell growth outcomes. When hMSCs are grown on the co‐assembled gel, they have the rounded morphology characteristic of DBS‐CONHNH 2 but remain on the gel surface, like DBS‐CH 2 OH. The multi‐component gel thus shares characteristics of the individual LMWGs, with hMSC growth being controlled by factors like structure, stiffness, and dynamics. This work demonstrates how chemical manipulation of gels based on deceptively simple LMWGs can have profound impacts in biomaterials engineering.
Protocol for a qualitative study exploring older adults’ experience of mental health and wellbeing in work-related later life transitions in the UK
Later life transitions occur in the later years of life and can cause significant disruption to a person’s usual daily routine and lifestyle. Transitions that are specifically related to work, such as retirement, can cause sudden changes to an individual’s financial, social and psychological environment and for some, may negatively impact on mental health and wellbeing. This protocol outlines a qualitative study to explore the experiences of adults in the UK, who have experienced a negative impact on their mental health or wellbeing due to a work-related transition in later life. Semi-structed interviews will be completed with people aged 50 and over to gain a deeper understanding of 1) the mental health and wellbeing of people undertaking later life transitions; 2) the context surrounding the transitions (such as due to ill-health or redundancy); and 3) the types of support they received or may have benefitted from. Research in this area is scarce and this study will help us to better understand the experience of those who have encountered such difficulties to help develop appropriate interventions and support in this area.
Carbonyl Functionalized Azaphosphinine‐Based Multiple‐Resonance Emitters via Regulated p/n/σ–π Hybrid Conjugation
Abstract Doping heteroatoms with non‐typical electronic couplings offered the great opportunity to fine‐tune chemical structures and optoelectronic properties of organic π‐conjugated molecules (OCMs). Herein, we reported the first example of hybrid COPN multiple‐resonance (MR) thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters via the modular protocols. Compared with the classical BN/CON MR‐emitters having p–π conjugation, new COPN MR‐emitters maintained the various n/σ/σ*–π* hyperconjugation via the P‐center. Collaboratively with CO group, the P‐regulated (lp, O, S, and Me + ) hyperconjugation maintained the strong impacts on the TADF properties, such as FWHM, ISC/RISC, and PLQY. The dominating short‐range (SR) N➞CO charge‐transfer (CT) character suggested the CON‐type MR structure in the PO‐derivative. The strong long‐range (LR) P➞CO CT character suggested the COP‐type MR structure in the P(III)‐derivative. Leveraging on the self‐amplified PO‐hyperconjugation, the double‐PO derivative exhibited the dominating PON‐type MR‐TADF involving the SR N➞PO CT. The increased PLQYs (54%) and narrowed emission (FWHM: 13 nm) are among the best CON‐type MR‐emitters in the literature. As a proof of concept, the 1 st generation hybrid MR‐emitters were applied as the light‐emitting materials in organic lighting‐emitting diodes that showed the narrow‐band blue (FWHM: 26 nm) and cyan emission (FWHM: 17 nm) with EQE as high as 7.3% and 22.8%, respectively. The current study revealed that installing the new hybrid conjugation, namely p/n/σ–π coupling into OCMs holds a great promise for designing new types of MR‐emitters with excellent TADF characters.