Rapid Regeneration Research Articles

Decoding cellular plasticity and niche regulation of limbal stem cells during corneal wound healing

BackgroundDysfunction or deficiency of corneal epithelium results in vision impairment or blindness in severe cases. The rapid and effective regeneration of corneal epithelial cells relies on the limbal stem cells (LSCs). However, the molecular and functional responses of LSCs and their niche cells to injury remain elusive.MethodsSingle-cell RNA sequencing was performed on corneal tissues from normal mice and corneal epithelium defect models. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to confirm the distinct characteristics and cell fates of LSCs. Knockdown of Creb5 and OSM treatment experiment were performed to determine their roles of in corneal epithelial wound healing.ResultsOur data defined the molecular signatures of LSCs and reconstructed the pseudotime trajectory of corneal epithelial cells. Gene network analyses characterized transcriptional landmarks that potentially regulate LSC dynamics, and identified a transcription factor Creb5, that was expressed in LSCs and significantly upregulated after injury. Loss-of-function experiments revealed that silencing Creb5 delayed the corneal epithelial healing and LSC mobilization. Through cell–cell communication analysis, we identified 609 candidate regeneration-associated ligand-receptor interaction pairs between LSCs and distinct niche cells, and discovered a unique subset of Arg1+ macrophages infiltrated after injury, which were present as the source of Oncostatin M (OSM), an IL-6 family cytokine, that were demonstrated to effectively accelerate the corneal epithelial wound healing.ConclusionsThis research provides a valuable single-cell resource and reference for the discovery of mechanisms and potential clinical interventions aimed at ocular surface reconstruction.

Efficient Bioactive Surface Coatings with Calcium Minerals: Step-Wise Biomimetic Transformation of Vaterite to Carbonated Apatite.

Carbonated apatite (CAp), known as the main mineral that makes up human bone, can be utilized in conjunction with scaffolds to increase their bioactivity. Various methods (e.g., co-precipitation, hydrothermal, and biomimetic coatings) have been used to provide bioactivity by forming CAp on surfaces similar to bone minerals. Among them, the use of simulated body fluids (SBF) is the most popular biomimetic method for generating CAp, as it can provide a mimetic environment. However, coating methods using SBF require at least a week for CAp formation. The long time it takes to coat biomimetic scaffolds is a point of improvement in a field that requires rapid regeneration. Here, we report a step-wise biomimetic coating method to form CAp using calcium carbonate vaterite (CCV) as a precursor. We can manufacture CCV-transformed CAp (V-CAp) on the surface in 4 h at least by immersing CCV in a phosphate solution. The V-CAp deposited surface was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images according to the type of phosphate solutions to optimize the reaction conditions. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) analysis validated the conversion of CCV to V-CAp on surfaces. In addition, the bioactivity of V-CAp coating was analyzed by the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts in vitro. V-CAp showed 2.3-folded higher cell proliferation and 1.4-fold higher ALP activity than the glass surface. The step-wise method of CCV-transformed CAp is a biocompatible method that allows the environment of bone regeneration and has the potential to confer bioactivity to biomaterial surfaces, such as imparting bioactivity to non-bioactive metal or scaffold surfaces within one day. It can rapidly form carbonated apatite, which can greatly improve time efficiency in research and industrial applications.

Hydrophilic silsesquioxane nanocages toughened extracellular matrix biomimetic Poly(γ-Glutamic acid) multidimensional self-polymerizable and osteogenic hybrid hydrogel for osteoporotic bone regeneration

Rapid bone defect regeneration in osteoporotic conditions remains a significant challenge due to the fragile mechanical stability and pathological microenvironment. The absence of bone matrix is the primary characteristic of these defects, and advanced strategies for treating osteoporotic bone defects focus on remodeling the bone matrix's spatial structure and regulating the microenvironment. While many hydrogels have been developed for bone regeneration, their use in repairing osteoporotic bone defects is constrained by deficiencies in shape-adaptivity, weak osteogenic bioactivity, and lack of physiological mechanical support. Herein, a novel bioactive hydrophilic semi-caged NH2-T4 silsesquioxane (NH2-T4-POSS) nanocage was developed, which was used to modify γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA) together with dopamine, to give an organic/inorganic hybrid hydrogel PGA-DA&T4 for osteoporotic bone regeneration. The developed PGA-DA&T4 hydrogel possesses favorable injectability, shape-adaptivity, self-healability, and strong antioxidant ability. Benefited from organic/inorganic hybridation and multidimensional molecular interacting mechanism, PGA-DA&T4 exhibites enhanced thermal stability and longer degradation period, unique self-polymerizability, high elasticity, and considerable tissue adhesion ability. In vitro experiments proved that PGA-DA&T4 is biocompatible, and is able to promote cell migration and neovascularization, and possesses favorable immunoregulatory to promote macrophage polarization towards anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Furthermore, PGA-DA&T4 has been demonstrated to accelerate osteogenic differentiation and inhibit osteoclastogenesis, thereby promoting the repair of osteoporotic bone defects. Our research successfully developed a novel hybrid γ-PGA hydrogel with therapeutic effects and supplied a promising biomaterial with potential clinical application for repairing osteoporotic bone defects.

Dynamics of tree stems and biomass in old‐growth and secondary forests along gradients in liana dominance, elevation and soil

Abstract Lianas, or woody vines, are key components of many tropical forests and can have substantial impacts on the dynamics and functioning of these important ecosystems. Their competition with trees for resources, in particular light, can hamper the recovery of forests from disturbances. Yet, it is unclear how forest disturbance interacts with liana–tree ratio (LTR), topography and soil properties to shape tree dynamics and the trajectories of forest succession. Using temporal data from the Kilombero Valley and the Udzungwa Mountains of Tanzania, we demonstrate how the dynamics of tree stems and biomass vary between secondary and old‐growth forests with changes in the dominance of lianas and environmental gradients. Greater tree recruitment and mortality in secondary forests compared with old‐growth forests suggested rapid regeneration processes and faster turnover. However, no significant differences were found in the net annual changes in the number or biomass of trees between secondary and old‐growth forests. Our findings also showed that higher LTRs were positively associated with stem mortality but also with tree biomass growth, indicating a nuanced ecological role of lianas in forest ecosystems, which warrants further investigation to fully understand the causal factors at play. Net changes in tree stem numbers decreased significantly with elevation, implying climatic constraints on forest regeneration at higher elevations. Soil cation exchange capacity and organic carbon were found to significantly influence tree stem recruitment and net change in abundance, although their effects on biomass remained unclear. Synthesis: Our findings indicate that the recovery of tropical forests from disturbance in terms of the number and biomass of tree stems may be predictable along environmental gradients. These insights have the potential to broaden our capacity to develop more nuanced strategies that identify when and where tropical forests may require restoration interventions, with a focus on structural recovery.

Electricity-driven rapid regeneration of ceramic paper-based soot filters with conductive potassium-supported antimony-doped tin oxide catalyst

To address short-term emission of massive particulate matter (PM) from diesel engines, rapid regeneration of catalyzed diesel particulate filters (CDPF) based on soot combustion is a considerable challenge. Herein, we employed an aluminosilicate fiber-weaved ceramic paper (CP) as a filter matrix, on which highly active potassium-supported antimony-doped tin oxides (K/ATO) were coated to fabricate a CDPF. The K/ATO/CP monolith preserves the 3D-network structure of CP while incorporating the mesopores of K/ATO, providing potential for trapping soot particles effectively. Furthermore, electricity pulses are designed to pass through the conductive K/ATO coating on the monolith for CDPF regeneration, achieving nearly complete soot conversion within less than half a minute using 1400 J of energy input. Both the reaction rate and the energy efficiency surpass previously reported those of other methods for soot combustion. Mechanism studies revealed that the electricity pulse can stimulate the release of tremendous lattice oxygen from the catalyst and in turn trigger rapid soot combustion, and boost surface sulfate decomposition to alleviate SO2 poisoning. This work presents an electrification strategy to realize rapid regeneration of CDPF for effective PM elimination utilizing onboard electricity system for hybrid powers.

Orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffolds promote rapid soft tissue regeneration by enhancing bidirectional cell migration

Repairing large-area soft tissue defects caused by traumas is a major surgical challenge. Developing multifunctional scaffolds with suitable scalability and favorable cellular response is crucial for soft tissue regeneration. In this study, we developed an orthogonally woven three-dimensional (3D) nanofiber scaffold combining electrospinning, weaving, and modified gas-foaming technology. The developed orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffold had a modular design and controlled fiber alignment. In vitro, the orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffold exhibited adjustable mechanical properties, good cell compatibility, and easy drug loading. In vivo, for one thing, the implantation of an orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffold in a full abdominal wall defect model demonstrated that extensive granulation tissue formation with enough mechanical strength could promote recovery of abdominal wall defects while reducing intestinal adhesion. Another result of diabetic wound repair experiments suggested that orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffolds had a higher wound healing ratio, granulation tissue formation, collagen deposition, and re-epithelialization. Taken together, this novel orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffold may provide a promising and effective approach for optimal soft tissue regeneration.

Influence of growth regulators on callus induction and plant regeneration from anthers of Tagetes spp.

Marigold (Tagetes spp.) belongs to family Asteraceae, native to Mexico, is one of the most important flower crop grown commercially in different parts of India. The application of haploid techniques as anther culture can considerably accelerate marigold breeding programmes by providing homozygous doubled haploid (DH) lines for F1 hybrid seed production. Therefore, the objective of the present investigation was to study the effect of growth regulators for in vitro regeneration in both African marigold and French marigold genotypes viz., Pusa Basanti Gainda and Pusa Arpita, respectively for haploid induction. Among the different treatments tested for callus induction, anthers cultured on MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l BAP + 1.0 mg/l 2,4-D + 45 g/l sucrose significantly induced highest (38.74%) callus in the shortest period of time (16 days). Among two genotypes tested, embryogenic callus induction (27.70%) was significantly higher in Pusa Arpita over Pusa Basanti Gainda (23.37%). Among the different regeneration treatments, the highest adventitious shoot bud induction (13.32%), maximum (1.09) number of buds/callus in shortest duration (19.47 days) was observed in anther derived callus cultured on MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg/l BAP + 0.5mg/l NAA + 30 g/l sucrose. Among two genotypes evaluated for shoot bud induction, maximum (3.81%) regeneration was recorded in Pusa Arpita over Pusa Basanti Gainda (2.90%). In French genotype, the whole regeneration process was completed in 30 days whereas in African genotype it took nearly 40 days. This rapid regeneration system from anthers is highly useful in inducing haploids and di-haploids in African and French marigold lines, respectively.

Enhancing Desorption Performance of a Compressible Hybrid Structured Adsorbent via Localized Magnetic Induction Heating

AbstractStructured adsorbents have gained significant importance in gas separation applications due to their ability to fine‐tune mass and heat transfer and lower pressure drop across the bed. This study presents a ferromagnetic compressible hybrid structured adsorbent, allowing regeneration via magnetic induction heating. A compressible melamine sponge is coated with the CO2‐selective Ni‐MOF‐74 adsorbent and Fe3O4 as a ferromagnetic susceptor, capable of dissipating heat instantaneously in an alternating electromagnetic field. Taking advantage of these properties, the potential of rapid CO2 capture and thermal regeneration via magnetic induction swing adsorption is investigated. The successful incorporation of both ingredients on the melamine sponge is confirmed via SEM‐EDX and XRD analysis. Breakthrough experiments with a CO2/CH4‐mixture are performed. The selective property of Ni‐MOF‐74 toward CO2 is retained, with the composite showing a capacity of 1.89 mmol CO2/g. The compressible nature of the melamine sponge allowed for an improvement of 79% in the volumetric capacity of the adsorbent bed and a higher heating rate. In regard to regeneration, within 1 min of subjecting the structured composite to the alternating magnetic field, an efficient desorption (>90%) of CO2 is achieved. Overall, a ferromagnetic compressible hybrid structured adsorbent is presented for fast cyclic gas‐phase separation processes.

Mussel inspired 3D elastomer enabled rapid calvarial bone regeneration through recruiting more osteoprogenitors from the dura mater.

Currently, the successful healing of critical-sized calvarial bone defects remains a considerable challenge. The immune response plays a key role in regulating bone regeneration after material grafting. Previous studies mainly focused on the relationship between macrophages and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), while dural cells were recently found to play a vital role in the calvarial bone healing. In this study, a series of 3D elastomers with different proportions of polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) were fabricated, which were further supplemented with polydopamine (PDA) coating. The physicochemical properties of the PCL/PGS and PCL/PGS/PDA grafts were measured, and then they were implanted as filling materials for 8 mm calvarial bone defects. The results showed that a matched and effective PDA interface formed on a well-proportioned elastomer, which effectively modulated the polarization of M2 macrophages and promoted the recruitment of dural cells to achieve full-thickness bone repair through both intramembranous and endochondral ossification. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed the predominance of dural cells during bone healing and their close relationship with macrophages. The findings illustrated that the crosstalk between dural cells and macrophages determined the vertical full-thickness bone repair for the first time, which may be the new target for designing bone grafts for calvarial bone healing.

Interplay of adsorptive properties and dielectric reactivity of graphenes upon edge functionalization

Graphenes have unique physicochemical properties that can be engineered for pollutant adsorption and their dielectric properties can facilitate subsequent microwave regeneration. First, graphenes have the potential for high-level control of oxygen content at the edges of the material without compromising the conjugated electronic structure of the basal plane. Because the basal plane contains lightly functionalized sp2-hybridized carbon atoms while sp3-hybridized ones are on the periphery of the sheets. Edges of graphenes can be oxidized while the basal plane can still be electronically stable with conjugated π-electrons perpendicular to the graphene lattice. For this, graphenes can be oxidized to attain controlled dispersion in water without disrupting the conjugated electron network on the basal plane, which is critical for pollutant adsorption. Graphenes have sheet-like surfaces that form dynamic, porous aggregates in water and can facilitate synthetic organic compound adsorption by the complex interplay of ‘pore’ accessibility and favorable intermolecular interactions. Thus, studying the role of oxidation of graphenes can help unravel the interplay between inter-sheet distance and the adsorption of synthetic organic compounds. Second, the sp2 hybridized basal planes of graphenes have mobile π-electrons that are expedient for rapid dielectric heating, which can be harvested for rapid and efficient microwave regeneration. Fundamental research on graphene chemistry can lead to a paradigm shift in the water treatment industry towards the safe and sustainable deployment of regenerable nano-scale adsorbents. This article presents a perspective on how to approach edge functionalization of graphene with an aspiration to advance their safe and sustainable use in water treatment.

RETRACTED: In vitro and in vivo assessment of curcumin-quercetin loaded multi-layered 3D-nanofibroporous matrix prepared by solution blow-spinning for full-thickness burn wound healing

Burn wounds (BWs) cause impairment of native skin tissue and may cause significant microbial infections that demand immediate care. Curcumin (Cur) and quercetin (Que) exhibit antimicrobial, hemocompatibility, ROS-scavenging, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its instability, water insolubility, and low biological fluid absorption render it challenging to sustain local Cur and Que doses at the wound site. Therefore, to combat these limitations, we employed blow-spinning and freeze-drying to develop a multi-layered, Cur/Que-loaded gelatin/chitosan/PCL (GCP-Q/C) nanofibroporous (NFP) matrix. Morphological analysis of the NFP-matrix using SEM revealed a well-formed multi-layered structure. The FTIR and XRD plots demonstrated dual-bioactive incorporation and scaffold polymer interaction. Additionally, the GCP-Q/C matrix displayed high porosity (82.7 ± 2.07 %), adequate pore size (∼121 μm), enhanced water-uptake ability (∼675 % within 24 h), and satisfactory biodegradation. The scaffolds with bioactives had a long-term release, increased antioxidant activity, and were more effective against gram-positive (S. aureus) and gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria than the unloaded scaffolds. The in vitro findings of GCP-Q/C scaffolds showed promoted L929 cell growth and hemocompatibility. Additionally, an in vivo full-thickness BW investigation found that an implanted GCP-Q/C matrix stimulates rapid recuperation and tissue regeneration. In accordance with the findings, the Gel/Ch/PCL-Que/Cur NFP-matrix could represent an effective wound-healing dressing for BWs.

Bioinspired Bone Seed 3D‐Printed Scaffold via Trapping Black Phosphorus Nanosheet for Bone Regeneration

Significance of endogenous mineralization in bone reconstruction is paramount, as it facilitates the accumulation of calcium ions for bone tissue deposition. However, conventional 3D‐printed scaffolds lack the capacity for calcium ion enrichment and mineralization, coupled with their low bone inductive activity. Inspired from the development of natural plant seeds, a biomimetic 3D printing scaffold is developed by implanting photosensitive black phosphorus “bone seeds” (BS), guiding a sequential process mirroring rooting (osteoblast recruitment), sprouting (fibrous callus mineralization), flowering (osseous callus formation), and fruiting (callus plasticity). BS were trapped onto porous 3D polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds with aminated surfaces via electrostatic interactions between phosphates and amino groups, creating the PCL‐BS scaffold that can actively capture calcium ions for accelerating the endogenous regeneration of critical bone defects. In vitro and in vivo experiments show that the PCL‐BS scaffold has good biocompatibility and strong osteogenic ability for rapid new bone regeneration under near‐infrared (NIR) stimulation. In addition, whole transcriptome sequencing analysis is performed to reveal the transcriptomic mechanism of BS involved in signal transduction and network regulation during bone regeneration. This NIR light‐regulated biomimetic BS inspired by seed planting, introduces a pioneering concept in the design of 3D printing bone repair scaffolds.

RNA Technology to Regenerate and Repair Alveolar Bone Defects

microRNA-200a (miR-200a) targets multiple signaling pathways that are involved in osteogenic differentiation and bone development. However, its therapeutic function in osteogenesis and bone regeneration remains unknown. In this study, we use in vitro and in vivo models to investigate the molecular function of miR-200a overexpression and miR-200a inhibition using a plasmid-based miR inhibitor system (PMIS) on osteogenic differentiation and bone regeneration. Inhibition of miR-200a using PMIS-miR-200a significantly increased osteogenic biomarkers of human embryonic palatal mesenchyme cells and promoted bone regeneration in rat tooth socket defects. In rat maxillary M1 molar extractions, the supporting tooth structures were removed with an implant drill to yield a 3-mm defect in the alveolar bone. A collagen sponge was inserted into the open alveolar defect and PMIS-miR-200a plasmid DNA was added to the sponge and the wound sutured to protect the sponge and close the defect. It was important to remove the existing tooth supporting structure, which can influence alveolar bone regeneration. The alveolar bone was regenerated in 4 wk. The collagen sponge acts to stabilize and deliver the PMIS-miR-200a DNA to cells entering the sponge in the bone defect. We show that mesenchymal stem cells expressing CD90 and Stro-1 enter the sponges, take up the DNA, and express PMIS-miR-200a. PMIS-miR-200a initiates a bone regeneration program in transformed cells in vivo. In vitro inhibition of miR-200a was found to upregulate Wnt and BMP signaling activity as well as Runx2, OCN, Lef-1, Msx2, and Dlx5 associated with osteogenesis. Liver and blood toxicity testing of PMIS-miR-200a–treated rats showed no increase in several biomarkers of liver disease. These results demonstrate the therapeutic function of PMIS-miR-200a for rapid bone regeneration. Furthermore, the studies were designed to demonstrate the ease of use of PMIS-miR-200a in solution and applied using a syringe in the clinic through a simple one-time application.

MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS (MSCS) AS A THERAPY FOR CHRONIC WOUND HEALING IN DIABETIC FOOT ULCERS: A REVIEW ARTICLE

Diabetic foot ulcer is a chronic and frequent complication in diabetic patients. Foot ulcers occur in 15-25% of people with diabetes, and most of them require amputation. Conventional treatments for DFU have not been effective enough to reduce the amputation rates. Thus, an effective method to accelerate the healing of diabetic foot ulcers is required. Recently, stem cells have emerged as a promising adjuvant therapy. One of the numerous types of stem cells used in chronic wound healing therapy is Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs). MSCs may be associated with shorter wound healing time, rapid tissue regeneration, and reduced risk of lower limb amputation through all mechanisms. This article summarizes and critically reviews the published literature on the use of MSCs to enhance chronic wound healing in DFUs.

Catalase-templated nanozyme-loaded microneedles integrated with polymyxin B for immunoregulation and antibacterial activity in diabetic wounds

Diabetic wounds are characterized by chronic trauma, with long-term non-healing attributed to persistent inflammation and recurrent bacterial infections. Exacerbation of the inflammatory response is largely due to increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, catalase (CAT) was used as a biological template to synthesize nanozyme-supported natural enzymes (CAT-Mn(SH)x) using a biomimetic mineralization method. Subsequently, polymyxin B (CAT-Mn(SH)x@PMB) was immobilized on its surface through electrostatic assembly. CAT-Mn(SH)x@PMB demonstrates the ability for slow and sustained release of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Finally, CAT-Mn(SH)x@PMB loaded microneedles (MNs) substrate were synthesized using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and named CAT-(MnSH)x@PMB-MNs. It exhibited enhanced enzyme and antioxidant activities, along with effective antibacterial properties. Validation findings indicate that it can up-regulate the level of M2 macrophages and reduce the level of pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Additionally, it promotes angiogenesis and rapid nerve regeneration, thereby facilitating wound healing through its dual anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Hence,this study introduces a time–space tissue-penetrating and soluble microneedle patch with dual anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects for the treatment of diabetic wounds.

Direct and rapid thermal shock for recycling spent graphite in lithium-ion batteries

Due to the rapid increase in the number of spent lithium-ion batteries, there has been a growing interest in the recovery of degraded graphite. In this work, a rapid thermal shock (RTS) strategy is proposed to regenerate spent graphite for use in lithium-ion batteries. The results of structural and morphological characterization demonstrate that the graphite is well regenerated by the RTS process. Additionally, an amorphous carbon layer forms and coats onto the surface of the graphite, contributing to excellent rate performance. The regenerated graphite (RG-1000) displays excellent rate performance, with capacities of 413 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1 and 102.1 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1, respectively. Furthermore, it demonstrates long-term cycle stability, maintaining a capacity of 80 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 with a capacity retention of 78.4 % after 600 cycles. This RTS method enables rapid and efficient regeneration of spent graphite anodes for lithium-ion batteries, providing a facile and environmentally friendly strategy for their direct regeneration.

Hepatocyte regeneration is driven by embryo-like DNA methylation reprogramming

As a result of partial hepatectomy, the remaining liver tissue undergoes a process of renewed proliferation that leads to rapid regeneration of the liver. By following the early stages of this process, we observed dramatic programmed changes in the DNA methylation profile, characterized by both de novo and demethylation events, with a subsequent return to the original adult pattern as the liver matures. Strikingly, these transient alterations partially mimic the DNA methylation state of embryonic hepatoblasts (E16.5), indicating that hepatocytes actually undergo epigenetic dedifferentiation. Furthermore, Tet2/Tet3-deletion experiments demonstrated that these changes in methylation are necessary for carrying out basic embryonic functions, such as proliferation, a key step in liver regeneration. This implies that unlike tissue-specific regulatory regions that remain demethylated in the adult, early embryonic genes are programmed to first undergo demethylation, followed by remethylation as development proceeds. The identification of this built-in system may open targeting opportunities for regenerative medicine.

Influence of short-term chronic oral cannabidiol application on muscle recovery and performance after an intensive training protocol - a randomized double-blind crossover study.

Rapid regeneration after intense exercise is essential for competitive athletes. Based on this assumption, supplementation strategies, focusing on food supplements, are increasing to improve the recovery processes. One such supplement is cannabidiol (CBD) which is gaining more attention in competitive sports. However, the evidence is still lacking and there are no data available about the effect of a short-term chronic application. A three-arm double-blind cross-over study was conducted to determine the effects of two different CBD products on performance, muscle damage and inflammatory processes in well-trained athletes. In total 17 subjects took successfully part in this study. Each subject underwent the six-day, high-intensity training protocol three times. After each training session, each subject took either a placebo or a CBD product (60 mg of oil or solubilisate). Between the intervention phases, at least four weeks of washout period was conducted. Before and after the training protocols the performance capacity in countermovement jump (CMJ), back squat (BS), bench press (BP) and 1-mile run were measured and biomarkers for muscle damage (creatine kinase, myoglobin), inflammatory processes (interleukin 6 and 10) and immune cell activity (ratios of neutrophil granulocytes, lymphocytes and, platelets) were analyzed. For statistical analyses, the current version of R and a linear mixed model was used. It could identify different effects of the training protocol depending on performance level (advanced or highly advanced athletes) (p < .05). Regardless of the performance level, muscle damage and a reduction in performance could be induced by the training protocol. Only CBD oil was associated with a reduction in myoglobin concentration (p < .05) in advanced athletes. Concerning immune activity, a significant decrease in platelets lymphocyte ratios was observed in advanced athletes after placebo treatment (p < .05). CBD oil application showed a slight inhibitory effect (p < .10). Moreover, the reduction in performance differs between the performance levels. A significant decrease in CMJ was observed in advanced athletes and a decreasing trend in BS was observed in highly advanced athletes after placebo treatment (p < 0.10). Both CBD products do not affect performance parameters. For inflammatory parameters, no effects were observed. It was found that the performance level of the subjects was a decisive factor and that they responded differently to the training protocol and the CBD application. However, no clear effects of either CBD product were found and further research is needed to identify the long-term effects of CBD application.

High-Performance Porous Organic Polymers for Environmental Remediation of Toxic Gases.

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a harmful acidic gas generated from power plants and fossil fuel combustion and represents a significant health risk and threat to the environment. Benzimidazole-linked polymers (BILPs) have emerged as a promising class of porous solid adsorbents for toxic gases because of their chemical and thermal stability as well as the chemical nature of the imidazole moiety. The performance of BILPs in SO2 capture was examined by synergistic experimental and theoretical studies. BILPs exhibit a significantly high SO2 uptake of up to 8.5 mmol g-1 at 298 K and 1.0 bar. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations predict that this high SO2 uptake is due to the dipole-dipole interactions between SO2 and the functionalized polymer frames through O2S(δ+)···N(δ-)-imine and O═S═O(δ-)···H(δ+)-aryl and intermolecular attraction between SO2 molecules (O═S═O(δ-)···S(δ+)O2). Moderate isosteric heats of adsorption (Qst ≈ 38 kJ mol-1) obtained from experimental SO2 uptake studies are well supported by the DFT calculations (≈40 kJ mol-1), which suggests physisorption processes enabling rapid adsorbent regeneration for reuse. Repeated adsorption experiments with almost identical SO2 uptake confirm the easy regeneration and robustness of BILPs. Moreover, BILPs possess very high SO2 adsorption selectivity at low concentration over carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrogen (N2): SO2/CO2, 19-24; SO2/CH4, 118-113; SO2/N2, 600-674. This study highlights the potential of BILPs in the desulfurization of flue gas or other gas mixtures through capturing trace levels of SO2.

Ultraviolet light blocking optically clear adhesives for foldable displays via highly efficient visible-light curing

In developing an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel for a foldable smartphone (specifically, a color filter on encapsulation) aimed at reducing power consumption, the use of a new optically clear adhesive (OCA) that blocks UV light was crucial. However, the incorporation of a UV-blocking agent within the OCA presented a challenge, as it restricted the traditional UV-curing methods commonly used in the manufacturing process. Although a visible-light curing technique for producing UV-blocking OCA was proposed, its slow curing speed posed a barrier to commercialization. Our study introduces a highly efficient photo-initiating system (PIS) for the rapid production of UV-blocking OCAs utilizing visible light. We have carefully selected the photocatalyst (PC) to minimize electron and energy transfer to UV-blocking agents and have chosen co-initiators that allow for faster electron transfer and more rapid PC regeneration compared to previously established amine-based co-initiators. This advancement enabled a tenfold increase in the production speed of UV-blocking OCAs, while maintaining their essential protective, transparent, and flexible properties. When applied to OLED devices, this OCA demonstrated UV protection, suggesting its potential for broader application in the safeguarding of various smart devices.