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The precise synthesis of miktoarm star polymers (MSPs) remains one of the great challenges in synthetic chemistry due to the difficulty in locating appropriate structural templates and polymer grafting/growing strategies with high selectivity and efficiency. Herein, ≈2 nm metal‐organic polyhedra (MOPs), constructed from the coordination of isophthalic acid (IPA) and Cu2+, are applied as templates for the precise synthesis of 24‐arm MSPs for their unique logarithmic ligand‐exchange dynamics. Six different polymers are prepared with IPA as an end group and they further coordinated with Cu2+ to afford the corresponding 24‐arm star homo‐polymers. MSPs can be obtained by mixing targeted homo‐arm star polymers in solutions upon thermal annealing. The compositions of MSPs can be facilely and precisely tuned by the recipe of the star polymer mixtures used. Interestingly, the obtained MSPs can be sorted into homo‐arm star polymers through a typical solvent extraction procedure. The hybridization and sorting process can be reversibly conducted through the cycle of thermal annealing and solvent treatment. The complex coordination framework not only opens new avenues for the facile and precise synthesis of MSPs and MOPs with hybrid functionalities, but also provides the capability to design sustainable polymer systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise synthesis of miktoarm star polymers (MSPs) remains one of the great challenges in synthetic chemistry due to the difficulty in locating appropriate structural templates and polymer grafting/growing strategies with high selectivity and efficiency. Herein, ≈2 nm metal‐organic polyhedra (MOPs), constructed from the coordination of isophthalic acid (IPA) and Cu2+, are applied as templates for the precise synthesis of 24‐arm MSPs for their unique logarithmic ligand‐exchange dynamics. Six different polymers are prepared with IPA as an end group and they further coordinated with Cu2+ to afford the corresponding 24‐arm star homo‐polymers. MSPs can be obtained by mixing targeted homo‐arm star polymers in solutions upon thermal annealing. The compositions of MSPs can be facilely and precisely tuned by the recipe of the star polymer mixtures used. Interestingly, the obtained MSPs can be sorted into homo‐arm star polymers through a typical solvent extraction procedure. The hybridization and sorting process can be reversibly conducted through the cycle of thermal annealing and solvent treatment. The complex coordination framework not only opens new avenues for the facile and precise synthesis of MSPs and MOPs with hybrid functionalities, but also provides the capability to design sustainable polymer systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammatory and non‐inflammatory acne lesions constitute a significant clinical challenge in acne subjects. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a facial serum and a mask containing salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acid for improving skin conditions. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included adults with comedones, post‐inflammatory erythema (PIE) and/or hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Shanghai, China in July 2021. Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive the study Serum + Mask or serum alone for 8 weeks. Acne severity, comedones, papules, pustules, PIE, PIH, skin pores, skin tone evenness, sebum secretion, skin hydration, and trans‐epidermal water loss were evaluated at T0d, T1d, T7d, T14d, T28d, and T56d. Results: Eighty‐three participants were included, including 41 and 42 in the Serum + Mask and Serum groups, respectively. Acne severity, density of skin pores, skin tone evenness, PIH foci on face, PIE foci on nose, intensity of PIE and PIH, closed comedones on face, open comedones on nose, sebum secretion, and skin hydration were significantly improved from baseline after 8 weeks of treatment in both groups (all p < 0.05). Addition of the mask improved the number of closed comedones (−6.56 ± 0.39 vs. −5.19 ± 0.44, p = 0.022) and acne severity (−0.39 ± 0.08 vs. −0.12 ± 0.09, p = 0.026) substantially more than using the serum alone. No adverse reaction was reported in either group. Conclusions: The study serum improved skin conditions by regulating skin barrier function and achieving a balance of skin hydration and sebum secretion, removing comedones and improving PIE and PIH. Addition of the mask accelerated the effects without compromising safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in Angewandte Chemie, discusses the challenges and potential solutions in the synthesis of miktoarm star polymers. The authors, Mingxin Zhang, Panchao Yin, and their colleagues, propose the use of metal-organic polyhedra with logarithmic ligand exchange dynamics as templates for the reversible sorting and hybridization of miktoarm star polymers. This approach opens up new possibilities for the design of sustainable polymers. The article also briefly mentions other research topics such as visible-light photoswitchable benzimidazole azo-arenes, enantioselective synthesis of arylglycines, electrochemical diacetoxylation of alkenes, and the control of structural properties in supported/bulk metal oxides through catalyst post-treatment. [Extracted from the article]

This article, published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition, discusses the challenges and potential solutions in the synthesis of miktoarm star polymers. The authors propose the use of metal-organic polyhedra with logarithmic ligand exchange dynamics as templates for the reversible sorting and hybridization of miktoarm star polymers with target compositions. This approach opens up new possibilities for the design of sustainable polymers. The article also briefly mentions other research topics such as visible-light photoswitchable benzimidazole azo-arenes as β-arrestin2-biased cannabinoid 2 receptor agonists, enantioselective synthesis of arylglycines, electrochemical diacetoxylation of alkenes, and the control of structural properties of supported/bulk metal oxides through catalyst post-treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Background: UV rays not only cause oxidative damage to the skin, but also damage its barrier function. The use of sunscreen is crucial in preventing skin from UV radiation, but it may have an impact on the function of the skin barrier. While much research has focused on the protective effects of sunscreen against UV oxidative damage, little is known about the impact of daily sunscreen use on the skin barrier. Objective: This study mainly investigated the changes in skin barrier function of volunteers (including those with sensitive skin) before and after using a ceramide‐containing sunscreen. Methods: A total of 60 volunteers used SPF30 sunscreen containing ceramide every morning. Using non‐invasive methods to detect skin barrier changes in TEWL, hydration, facial redness based on VISIA‐CR image, and Erythema index (EI) value after 4 weeks of using ceramide‐containing sunscreen. Adverse reactions were also assessed. Results: After 4 weeks of using ceramide‐containing sunscreen, significant reductions were observed in skin redness with both an 11.89% decrease in a* value and a 5.68% decrease in skin EI, while there was also a significant decrease in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) with a reduction of 22.96%, and a significant increase in skin hydration with a 21.96% increase in the moisture content of the stratum corneum. No adverse events occurred during the entire testing process. Conclusion: Daily application of ceramide‐containing sunscreen can increase skin hydration while enhancing the function of the skin barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low‐profile Ku/K band circularly polarized phased array antenna based on crossed dipole and four parasitic elements is presented. Four parasitic patches and the outline of dipole arms which are designed as an exponentially gradual curve are intended to broaden impedance bandwidth. For better integrated design, the plated through holes at the bottom of substrate replaces the metal cavity, aiming to enhance the radiation characteristics of the positive z ${\boldsymbol{z}}$ direction. The small angle sequential ro0tation tech is adopted to further increase the axial ratio (AR) bandwidth. The 8 × 8 antenna array is operated from 15.5 to 23.5 GHz (41%), with the size of 56 mm × 56 mm × 2.54 mm. In the operating frequency, the array demonstrates an average peak realized gain of 24.3 dBic and has a 3‐dB AR beamwidth with scanning angle from −60° to 60° in the plane of ɸ = 0° and ɸ = 90°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The protection for different skin types with impaired skin barrier in the market is insufficient. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a panthenol‐enriched mask (La Roche‐Posay Mask Pro) in addressing various skin barrier impairment subgroups, including dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin. Methods: A total of 177 participants were enrolled in the study and divided into three subgroups based on their skin type. Participants used the mask following the specified protocol, with measurements taken for skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum content, and skin redness—factors that are directly influenced by skin barrier function. Assessments were conducted at baseline and after 1 day (tested 15 min post‐application), 7 days, and 14 days of application using Sebumeter, Tewameter, Corneometer, Mexameter, and VISIA. Results: Results showed significant improvements in skin parameters across all subgroups. In the dry sensitive skin subgroup, the mask increased skin hydration, sebum content, and reduced redness. For the oily sensitive skin subgroup, the mask regulated sebum production and improved skin hydration. In the oily acne skin subgroup, the mask reduced sebum content, redness, TEWL, and post‐inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation. Tolerance was excellent for all skin types, with no adverse reactions observed. Conclusions: This study highlights the efficacy and safety of the panthenol‐enriched LRP Mask Pro for individuals with distinct skin barrier impairment subgroups. The mask's versatile formulation and proven efficacy make it a valuable skincare product for addressing various skin concerns and achieving healthier, more balanced skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prolonged use of medical masks has increased skin‐related issues. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of a facial cream and facial mask in mitigating medical mask related skin symptoms. Methods: Healthy women were randomly assigned to apply a facial cream (n = 32) or a facial mask plus a facial cream (n = 32) on half‐faces after wearing medical masks for 4 h (Tb). Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), dryness score, and redness area were assessed at Tb and 10 min after using the cream (T1) in the facial cream group, and at Tb, 1 h after using the facial mask (T2), and 10 min after using the cream (T3) in the combined use group. Results: In the facial cream group, the treated half‐face showed significantly better improvements from Tb to T1 in TEWL (−2.95 ± 0.38 vs. −0.68 ± 0.35 g/h·cm2, p < 0.001) and skin dryness score (−1.00 ± 0.12 vs. 0.00 ± 0.00, p < 0.001). In the combined use group, the treated half‐face showed significantly better improvements from Tb to T2 and T3 in TEWL (T2, −3.46 ± 0.33 vs. −0.09 ± 0.13 g/h·cm2; T3, −4.67 ± 0.31 vs. −0.28 ± 0.22 g/h·cm2) and skin dryness score (T2, −0.63 ± 0.13 vs. 0.03 ± 0.03; T3, −0.94 ± 0.17 vs. 0.19 ± 0.07) (all p < 0.001) then the untreated half‐face. The combined use group had significantly lower TEWL at T3 than T2 (p < 0.05). The reduction in redness area was similar between the treated and untreated half‐faces in both groups. Conclusions: The test facial cream and mask significantly improved skin barrier function and alleviated dryness symptoms associated with medical mask use, with the combined use offering superior benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sensitive skin is a common condition affecting a significant proportion of the population, and there is a growing demand for effective and safe management. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a cream containing panthenol, prebiotics, and probiotic lysate as an optimal care for facial sensitive skin. Methods: A total of 110 participants (64 in group A and 46 in group B) with facial sensitive skin applied the cream twice daily for 28 days. Group A evaluated their sensitive skin, product efficacy, and product use experience at D0 (15 min), D1, D14, and D28. In group B, skin barrier function‐related indicators were measured at baseline and on D1, D7, D14, and D28. Dermatologists evaluated tolerance for all participants. Results: After 28 days of use, in group A, 100% of participants reported mildness and comfort with product use. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in skin barrier function‐related indicators, including increased stratum corneum moisture content, reduced erythema index, elevated sebum content, decreased trans‐epidermal water loss, and diminished skin redness parameter a* value (all p < 0.05). Dermatologist evaluations revealed excellent tolerance among all participants. Conclusion: The panthenol‐enriched cream with prebiotics and probiotic lysate exhibited substantial clinical efficacy in ameliorating facial sensitive skin conditions, coupled with a high safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Oily skin, characterized by excessive sebum production, can lead to acne and have psychosocial impacts due to changes in appearance. Recent research has shown interest in treatments for oil control, with kaolin and bentonite emerging as promising options. Despite their potential, comprehensive studies on these ingredients are still in the nascent stages. AIM: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a clay mask (La Roche‐Posay Effaclar Sebo‐Controlling Mask) in reducing skin oiliness and acne, and its safety for use. METHODS: In this study, 75 adults with oily or combination skin were enrolled and provided with a clay mask for twice‐weekly use over 4 weeks. Clinical assessments, using instruments like Sebumeter, Vapometer, and Corneometer, were conducted at baseline, and after 1, 2, and 4 weeks, evaluating acne lesions, skin irritation, sebum content, and skin hydration. Participant self‐assessment questionnaires were also utilized for subjective evaluation. Statistical analyses were performed accordingly. RESULTS: The study revealed significant improvements in acne‐related outcomes, sebum content, skin evenness, stratum corneum water content, and transepidermal water loss following the application of the clay mask. Pore area and porphyrin area showed no significant changes. Tolerance assessment showed reduced dryness and irritation, with self‐assessment indicating high product acceptability and perceived oil control effectiveness. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the clay mask's efficacy in managing acne and oily skin, improving hydration and texture. Significant improvements in skin parameters and high product safety were observed, supporting its suitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological proton channels play important roles in the delicate metabolism process, and have led to great interest in mimicking selective proton transport. Herein, we designed a bioinspired proton transport membrane by incorporating flexible 14‐crown‐4 (14C4) units into rigid frameworks of polyimine films by an interfacial Schiff base reaction. The Young's modulus of the membrane reaches about 8.2 GPa. The 14C4 units could grab water, thereby forming hydrogen bond‐water networks and acting as jumping sites to lower the energy barrier of proton transport. The molecular chains present a vertical orientation to the membrane, and the ions travel between the quasi‐planar molecular sheets. Furthermore, the 14C4 moieties could bond alkali ions through host–guest interactions. Thus, the ion conductance follows H+≫K+>Na+>Li+, and an ultrahigh selectivity of H+/Li+ (ca. 215) is obtained. This study provides an effective avenue for developing ion‐selective membranes by embedding macrocycle motifs with inherent cavities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological proton channels play important roles in the delicate metabolism process, and have led to great interest in mimicking selective proton transport. Herein, we designed a bioinspired proton transport membrane by incorporating flexible 14‐crown‐4 (14C4) units into rigid frameworks of polyimine films by an interfacial Schiff base reaction. The Young's modulus of the membrane reaches about 8.2 GPa. The 14C4 units could grab water, thereby forming hydrogen bond‐water networks and acting as jumping sites to lower the energy barrier of proton transport. The molecular chains present a vertical orientation to the membrane, and the ions travel between the quasi‐planar molecular sheets. Furthermore, the 14C4 moieties could bond alkali ions through host–guest interactions. Thus, the ion conductance follows H+≫K+>Na+>Li+, and an ultrahigh selectivity of H+/Li+ (ca. 215) is obtained. This study provides an effective avenue for developing ion‐selective membranes by embedding macrocycle motifs with inherent cavities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous liquids (PLs) have improved the understanding ofthe porous properties of matter; however, rational tuning ofthe viscosities and gas absorption properties ofPLs lag far behind the explosive growth of PL applications. Herein, neat molecular PLs are constructed by grafting polymers onto the surface of 2 nm molecular nanocages with precisely tuned graft densities and molecular weights Mws. The flowability ofthe PLs showed a non-monotonic dependence on the Mw of the polymers due to the interplay between the surface confinement effect and polymer chain entanglements, enabling optimization of their viscosities, similar to those of conventional liquids. The surface layer dynamics and gas absorption kinetics are quantified, correlation between the two properties is confirmed, and gas permeation process is regulated by surface layer dynamics. From the understanding of the structure-property relationship, the surface layer grafting densities are tuned to promote surface layer dynamics to achieve improved gas sorption performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological ion channels existing in organisms are critical for many biological processes. Inspired by biological ion channels, the heterogeneous electrospinning nanofiber membranes (HENM) with functional ion channels are constructed by electrospinning technology. The HENM successfully realizes ion‐gating effects, which can be used for tunable energy conversions. Introduction of pyridine and carboxylic acid groups into the HENM plays an important role in generating unique and stable ion transport behaviors, in which gates become alternative states of open and close, responding to symmetric/asymmetric pH stimulations. Then we used the HENM to convert osmotic energy into electric energy which reach a maximum value up to 12.34 W m−2 and the output power density of HENM‐based system could be regulated by ion‐gating effects. The properties of the HENM provide widespread potentials in application of smart nanofluidic devices, energy conversion, and water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological ion channels existing in organisms are critical for many biological processes. Inspired by biological ion channels, the heterogeneous electrospinning nanofiber membranes (HENM) with functional ion channels are constructed by electrospinning technology. The HENM successfully realizes ion‐gating effects, which can be used for tunable energy conversions. Introduction of pyridine and carboxylic acid groups into the HENM plays an important role in generating unique and stable ion transport behaviors, in which gates become alternative states of open and close, responding to symmetric/asymmetric pH stimulations. Then we used the HENM to convert osmotic energy into electric energy which reach a maximum value up to 12.34 W m−2 and the output power density of HENM‐based system could be regulated by ion‐gating effects. The properties of the HENM provide widespread potentials in application of smart nanofluidic devices, energy conversion, and water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Fear of progression (FoP) is a common psychosocial problem among adult cancer patients, but data on parents of children undergoing cancer treatment are scarce. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of FoP in parents of children undergoing cancer treatment and explore the associated factors.Methods: Overall, 285 parents of children undergoing cancer treatment were recruited from three general hospitals in China. FoP in the parents was assessed using the Chinese version of the Fear of Progression Questionnaire-parent version (FoP-Q-SF/PR). Other questionnaires included the Self-Compassion Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Civilian Version, and items on socio-demographic and medical characteristics. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis were used to identify factors associated with FoP.Results: A total of 75.1% of the participants showed dysfunctional levels of FoP. The mean FoP-Q-SF/PR score was 39.98 (standard deviation = 9.18). Parental FoP was significantly associated with a shorter time since diagnosis, lower levels of self-compassion, poor sleep quality, and severe posttraumatic stress symptoms (Adjusted R Squared = 0.369, F = 12.838, p < 0.01).Conclusions: FoP is a frequently reported problem among parents of children undergoing cancer treatment. In this cohort, parents of children with a shorter time since cancer diagnosis were at higher risk of suffering from FoP. Interventions to enhance self-compassion, improve sleep quality, and mitigate posttraumatic stress symptoms may help with the psychological adjustment and well-being of parents whose children are undergoing cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]