Browse Articles

A Deep‐Red Emissive Cage‐in‐Rings Complex for Lysosome Imaging

ABSTRACT Bioimaging technology is a fundamental platform for visualizing biological processes and guiding clinical interventions. Consequently, developing effective strategies for constructing biocompatible, long‐wavelength emissive, and intrinsically selective bioprobes has long been a central goal in chemistry. Herein, we develop a stepwise assembly protocol to construct an exotic cage‐in‐rings bioimaging probe, TPBCage 6+ ⊂3CB[8] , through noncovalent association of a hexacationic cage (TPBCage 6+ ) with cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]). The complex adopts a thermodynamically favored C 2 ‐symmetrical conformation rather than the expected C 3 ‐symmetrical analogue. It preserves two exposed pyridinium units, providing a structural basis for efficient cellular uptake, while the other four pyridinium units are partially shielded by CB[8], reducing nonspecific interactions in bioimaging to some extent compared with the free cage. Encapsulation by CB[8] effectively suppresses π–π stacking of the cage, improving its aqueous solubility. Concomitantly, CB[8] encapsulation narrows the energy gap of the cage, resulting in a red shift in emission from 552 to 652 nm and an enhanced fluorescence quantum yield. Benefiting from enhanced water solubility, good biocompatibility, and deep‐red emission, the complex enables lysosome‐selective imaging in deep‐red region. This work establishes an alternative supramolecular strategy for subcellular‐selective imaging, in which cage‐in‐rings confinement enables control over excited‐state properties, enabling the development of intrinsically selective bioimaging probes.

Wave dispersion analysis of porous functionally graded piezoelectric sandwich panels on Kerr substrates

Abstract This study investigates wave dispersion characteristics of graphene-reinforced conductive adhesive functionally graded piezoelectric sandwich panels supported by Kerr substrates. The displacement field is formulated using sinusoidal shear deformation theory, and the equations of motion are derived by combining Hamilton’s principle with nonlocal strain gradient theory. The wave dispersion relations for porous functionally graded piezoelectric sandwich panels are solved numerically. The results indicate that scale effects exert distinct influences on frequency and phase velocity. Pore volume fraction and functional gradient exponent affect frequency and phase velocity through different mechanisms. Environmental loading, electrical loading, Kerr substrate parameters, graphene density, and geometric dimensions also exhibit clear and independent effects on wave propagation frequency. These results provide theoretical support for the design and application of piezoelectric smart aggregates in damage monitoring of hydraulic concrete structures.

Solution Synthesis of Actinide Chalcogenide and Oxychalcogenide Nanoparticles

ABSTRACT We report the synthesis and characterization of a series: UOS, UOSe and β‐US 2 , the first examples of uranium‐chalcogen‐containing nanomaterials using colloidal synthetic techniques. The challenge to these syntheses is the oxophilicity of uranium, as uranium dioxide is difficult to avoid and the only actinide nanomaterial reported previously. All reagents, the metal, chalcogen source and solvent, were investigated to understand phase formation in solution. We found a post‐synthetic modification, commonly known as digestive ripening, that led to size control of the β‐US 2 nanoparticles. The phases were confirmed using powder x‐ray diffraction and Rietveld analysis, as well as microscopy ( transmission electron microscopy), and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The oxychalcogenide nanomaterials are antiferromagnetic, in contrast to previously reported UO 2 nanoparticles. As found in bulk β‐US 2 , the nanoparticles are paramagnetic, with a moment consistent with localized f electrons.

Data security sharing method for smart grid data middle platform using combined keys in trusted controlled environments

Confined Cationic Covalent Organic Cages Enable Oxidant‐Free Hofmann−Löffler−Freytag/Cyclization Sequences

ABSTRACT Developing confined supramolecular environments capable of regulating radical cascade processes with high site selectivity remains a longstanding challenge in catalysis. Herein, we report two imidazolium‐functionalized cationic covalent organic cages featuring distinct cavity architectures, including a triangular‐prismatic cavity ( cage 1 ) and a bowl‐shaped cavity ( cage 2 ), as confined platforms for oxidant‐free Hofmann–Löffler–Freytag (HLF)/cyclization cascade catalysis. Both cages efficiently mediate a one‐pot transformation of N ‐chloroamides into pyrrolidine derivatives under mild conditions, whereas cage 1 exhibits substantially enhanced activity and selectivity relative to cage 2 and a monomeric analog. Mechanistic investigations suggest that the geometrically confined cationic cavity of cage 1 promotes substrate preorganization through cooperative host–guest interactions, stabilizes nitrogen‐centered radical intermediates via electrostatic and C–H···π interactions, and facilitates the key 1,5‐hydrogen atom transfer (1,5‐HAT) process by lowering the associated activation barrier. Host–guest binding studies and DFT calculations, reveal a structure–recognition–reactivity relationship in which substrate anchoring, spin delocalization, and cavity confinement collectively govern catalytic efficiency. These findings demonstrate how confined cationic microenvironments can reconstruct radical cascade pathways and provide a general strategy for designing supramolecular catalysts for selective multistep transformations.

Association of lipid profiles with suicide attempts in young adults with first-episode drug-naive major depressive disorder: a gender-specific analysis

Urban sacred forests as socio-cultural infrastructure: visitor perspectives on ecosystem services and engagement in Kanazawa, Japan

Electrochemical Switch‐On of Nonlinear Optical Response in a Nitro‐Functionalized Arylimido‐Polyoxometalate

ABSTRACT Electrochemical switch‐on of second‐order non‐linear optical (NLO) responses ( β ) has been demonstrated in a polyoxometalate (POM) based chromophore (POMophore) for the first time. Reduction of the POM in a POM‐imidoaryl‐NO 2 derivative invokes an up to 15‐fold off/on switchable increase in intensity of scattered frequency‐doubled light, and the highest “on” state β yet reported for a redox‐cyclable POMophore. Computational and spectroscopic studies show that in the oxidized state, directionally opposed charge transfer (CT) transitions to POM and ─NO 2 result in a low net β . Upon reduction, the POM becomes a much weaker CT acceptor, resulting in more dipolar imido‐aryl to nitro CT, and thus enhanced NLO response.

Geotechnical challenges of urban expansion in Mila Town (NE Algeria): an integrated Engineering Ground Model (EGM) approach

Abstract Rapid population growth in the town of Mila, in northeastern Algeria, has made urban expansion essential. However, unfavorable soil conditions pose major challenges to urban development. This study aims to characterize subsurface conditions, assess soil mechanical behavior, and establish a geotechnical zoning framework together with an Engineering Ground Model to support safe urban development. An integrated site investigation program was conducted, including 15 Core Drillings, 49 dynamic penetration tests, laboratory analyses, and hydrogeological monitoring. The subsurface stratigraphy consists of clays and marls containing limestone blocks at depths exceeding 20 m, together with two slip surfaces identified at depths of − 4 m and − 15 m. The results of the dynamic penetration tests divide the study area into two zones: one characterized by low peak resistance (Pr = 4.38 MPa) and shallow bedrock (BR = − 1.6 m), and the other by moderate conditions (BR = − 6 m and Pr = 18.48 MPa). The soils show low chemical aggressiveness (SO 4 2 ⁻ < 5.5 mg/kg), very high clay content (> 75%), high plasticity (21 < P i  < 41.94%), and significant compressibility (Cr = 27.80%, 15.18% < w < 24.54%). X-ray diffraction analysis revealed clay and interstratified minerals dominated by illite (10–30%) and montmorillonite/smectite (≈12.5%). Most of the site is characterized by moderate to low admissible bearing capacity (0.164 < q ad (max) < 0.842 MPa) for shallow foundations and is susceptible to significant volumetric changes, with settlements exceeding 5cm across large areas. Based on the combined analysis of bearing capacity, settlement potential, groundwater depth, and soil heterogeneity, three geotechnical zones were identified, ranging from highly unfavorable to relatively competent foundation conditions. The spatial distribution of areas with low bearing capacity and high settlement potential closely correlates with the observed patterns of structural damage. The results demonstrate that shallow foundations are largely unsuitable throughout the study area unless ground improvement measures or deep foundation systems are adopted. This study provides a robust Engineering Ground Model and geotechnical zoning framework to guide sustainable urban planning and foundation design in similar clay-dominated, hydro-mechanically sensitive environments.

Pd/C‐Catalyzed Hydrogenation of CF ₃ ‐, CF ₂ H‐, and CF ₂ CO ₂ Et‐containing Pyridines: A Robust Method for Highly Functionalized containing Piperidines

ABSTRACT A robust method for the hydrogenation of various pyridines substituted by CF 3 , CF 2 H, and CF 2 CO 2 Et groups has been developed. Using an inexpensive heterogeneous Pd/C catalyst, diversely functionalized fluorinated piperidines were synthesized under air‐ and moisture‐tolerant reaction conditions (37 examples, up to 98% yield) with good to high diastereoselectivity. Comprehensive NMR studies enabled full structural characterization of the synthesized fluorinated compounds. The synthetic utility of the methods was further highlighted by the gram‐scale preparation of the fluorinated scaffolds and the synthesis of a trifluoromethylated analog of the antipsychotic drug melperone.

The effect of stretching the pectoralis major, sternocleidomastoid, and iliopsoas muscles on 800 m swimming performance in master swimmers

Engineering Orbital Hybridization via Coordination and Charging Modulation Toward Efficient and Stable Fe Single‐Atom Catalysts for Superior Oxygen Reduction

ABSTRACT Strategic microenvironment engineering of single‐atom catalysts offers a method for simultaneously enhancing oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity and stability. Herein, we synthesize Fe single atoms on an S‐doped hollow carbon matrix with carbon vacancies (Fe SAs/NSC V ) via a topological transformation strategy. The resulting Fe SAs/NSC V exhibits exceptional ORR performance and enables aqueous zinc–air batteries (ZABs) with remarkably highpower density. In situ spectroscopic analyses confirm that S heteroatoms in the second coordination shell of FeN 4 sites, along with adjacent carbon vacancies, collectively accelerate the conversion of oxygenated intermediates and simultaneously stabilize the FeN 4 active site configuration of Fe SAs/NSC V . Theoretical calculations further reveal that introduced S species and adjacent carbon vacancies cooperatively fine‐tune the hybridization of Fe 3 d z 2 and O 2 p orbitals, increasing the occupancy of antibonding orbitals near the Fermi level and thereby promoting *OH desorption. Meanwhile, this heteroatom‐defect synergy strengthens the anchoring of Fe sites within the carbon matrix and enhances the thermodynamic stability of these sites, indicating robust resistance to demetallation under operating conditions. Overall, this work establishes atomic‐level heteroatom‐defect cooperation as an effective strategy for the concurrent optimization of activity and stability in multi‐electron electrocatalysis.

Human-mediated gene flow reshapes Apis mellifera diversity and erodes subspecies integrity in the Middle East

Abstract In recent decades, human-mediated gene flow has profoundly reshaped Apis mellifera diversity across much of its native range, a process well documented in Europe but still poorly understood elsewhere. Here, we analyse whole-genome data from 423 individuals sampled across six countries, spanning six subspecies native to the Middle East and Egypt, together with 59 reference individuals. Genome-wide analyses of nuclear and mitochondrial variation inferred pervasive admixture driven by the importation of commercial queens and large-scale migratory beekeeping. Introgression from commercial A. m. ligustica , and, particularly from A. m. carnica , is widespread, reaching its highest estimates in A. m. meda (Iran) and A. m. syriaca (Jordan). Notably, the Egyptian A. m. lamarckii , itself introgressed, emerges as a major regional donor, substantially contributing to populations in Lebanon and Jordan and largely replacing the native A. m. jemenitica in the UAE. In contrast, admixture in Türkiye is dominated by gene flow among native subspecies, with A. m. anatoliaca contributing substantially to the gene pools of A. m. caucasia and A. m. meda , while receiving smaller reciprocal contributions. Nucleotide diversity is highest in Levantine admixed populations and declines significantly when estimated from individuals with high genetic integrity. Mitogenomic data broadly corroborate the nuclear findings, except in Türkiye and Iran, where all individuals clustered within the same branch as the C-lineage, thereby precluding inference of maternal introgression. Together, these findings indicate that modern apiculture is rapidly reshaping honeybee gene pools and eroding subspecies integrity across the Middle East.

Functional and Network PHAs via Stereoselective Polymerization and Tailored Post‐Transformation

ABSTRACT Incorporation of functional groups into poly(3‐hydroxyalkanoate)s (PHAs) is an important strategy to tailor their properties for specific applications, but both scopes of functional groups and the methods of transforming them into tailored PHA materials are currently limited and merit further exploration. Here, we report a catalyst‐controlled stereoselective ring‐opening polymerization of functionalized propiolactones for the synthesis of vinyl‐, allyl‐, and propargyl‐functionalized PHAs with high syndiotacticity ( P r up to 0.95) and a broad glass and melting transition window ( T g down to −31°C, T m up to 126°C). Copolymerization of such lactones with β‐butyrolactone further enhances PHA's thermal robustness and mechanical toughness. Three different methods have been developed to further transform the functionalized PHAs into creep‐ and solvent‐resistant crosslinked PHA thermosets, dynamic‐supramolecular elastomeric PHA networks, and grafted PHAs with hydrophilic and bioactive molecules. PHA functionalization, also uncovers a rare example of PHA supramolecular stereocomplexes via blending an enantiomeric, vinyl‐functionalized PHA pair.

A novel self-charging technique in electric bicycle for sustainable transportation

Ion‐Driving Polymer Entanglement for Dynamic Organic Phosphorescence

ABSTRACT The development of dynamic organic phosphorescent polymers is often limited by the challenge of exerting precise and reversible control over their condensed matter structures. While external stimuli can modulate emission, a fundamental materials‐level principle for governing hierarchical reorganization remains elusive. Here, we report that ion‐driving entanglement of polymer chains serves as a powerful general strategy to direct reconfigurable hierarchical structures, thereby enabling highly tunable organic phosphorescence. Specifically, potassium ions programmatically bridge ether and sulfonic acid groups within κ ‐carrageenan (κCG), triggering polymer entanglement and chromophore aggregation to form a dynamically reversible architecture. This structural transformation, validated by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and rheology, grants control over triplet exciton behavior, yielding phosphorescence that is tunable from blue to green (CIEy: 0.037–0.382) with a lifetime of up to 199.50 ms and an efficiency of 17.97%. The entanglement is thermally reversible, allowing on‐demand emission switching. Furthermore, we demonstrate the translational potential of this mechanism by constructing a visual urinary potassium analyzer, where ion‐concentration‐dependent phosphorescence enables quantitative detection. This work establishes polymer entanglement as a central design principle for adaptive photonic materials, opening avenues for smart sensing and healthcare monitoring.

Proteomic analysis of heat stress response and population diversity in Zygophyllum coccineum using hierarchical clustering and superoxide dismutase as a molecular biomarker

Measuring Local Exothermic Effects During the Oxidative Coupling of Methane Using <i>Operando</i> Luminescence Thermometry

ABSTRACT Oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) into ethylene is a very promising process for the valorization of methane. However, the high operating temperatures, severe exothermicity, and poor selectivity at high conversion rates have hindered its industrialization. Measurements of local catalyst temperatures, let alone research into the determining experimental parameters, are still scarce. Here, we use operando luminescence thermometry (LT) to measure local catalyst temperatures during the OCM reaction. This analytical technique reveals catalyst temperatures exceeding the oven temperature under inert conditions by almost 250°C. We observe a dependence of the local catalyst temperature on the amount of heat generated by the OCM process, and we show that the heat transfer and resulting catalyst temperature in the reactor are strongly influenced by experimental conditions and reactor/catalyst dimensions. This work showcases the opportunities of LT to measure catalyst temperatures and get more insight into high‐temperature catalytic processes and their heat management, leading to crucial insights for the further optimization of chemical processes, such as OCM.

Forecasting the development trend of the green finance market based on long short-term memory and transformer models

Interaction Hierarchy and Polymorphic Structure–Property Dynamics in Luminescent Molecular Crystals

ABSTRACT Solid‐state phase transitions provide a powerful platform for translating subtle molecular‐level interactions into macroscopic functional responses; however, rational design strategies that enable predictable control over such transitions remain limited. Herein, we report polymorphic structure–property switching behaviors associated with competing intermolecular interactions in luminescent molecular crystals. Cyano‐ β ‐substituted distyrylbenzene derivatives bearing bromo and methoxy side chains were designed to incorporate competing homotypic and heterotypic noncovalent interactions with distinct interaction characteristics. Single‐crystal analyses reveal that subtle differences in the hierarchical ordering of dispersion‐, dipole–dipole‐, and electrostatically dominated interactions give rise to polymorphic crystal structures with distinct molecular orientations and photoluminescence properties. Thermal and mechanical stimuli induce distinct phase transitions: an irreversible thermally induced single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal transition and a pseudo‐reversible mechanochemical pathway via an amorphous intermediate, both directly visualized as pronounced emission color changes. Kinetic and thermodynamic controls over polymorph formation are elucidated through a combination of structural analysis, photophysical measurements, and crystal framework calculations. This study suggests that multifunctional molecular side chains enable access to diverse interaction landscapes, allowing multiple structure–property switching pathways to be encoded within a single molecular framework. The presented framework provides a qualitative perspective for interpreting dynamic structural behaviors in molecular crystals.