Covalent Attachment of Aggregation-Induced Emission Molecules to the Surface of Ultrasmall Gold Nanoparticles to Enhance Cell Penetration

Three different alkyne-terminated aggregation-induced emission molecules based on a para-substituted di-thioether were attached to the surface of ultrasmall gold nanoparticles (2 nm) by copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (click chemistry). They showed a strong fluorescence and were well water-dispersible, in contrast to the dissolved AIE molecules. The AIE-loaded nanoparticles were not cytotoxic and easily penetrated the membrane of HeLa cells, paving the way for an intracellular application of AIE molecules, e.g., for imaging

Understanding the Role of Chalcogens in Ether‐Based Luminophores with Aggregation‐Induced Fluorescence and Phosphorescence

We describe the role of chalcogen variation (O, S, Se and Te) on the photoluminescence properties of ether‐based luminophores showing aggregation‐induced fluorescence and phosphorescence. To this end, a library of eleven different compounds with varying substitution patterns was synthesized and analyzed in terms of their photophysical properties. Ortho‐ and tetra‐ selenoethers revealed remarkable phosphorescence properties. To the best of our knowledge, these are one of the first phosphorescent organic selenium‐containing compounds featuring AIE properties. Besides photophysical investigations, X‐ray diffractometric analyses were performed, yielding the molecular structures of nine compounds in a crystalline environment, facilitating a direct correlation between the packing and the emission performances. All experimental results were supported by quantum chemical calculations providing an in‐depth understanding of the role of chalcogens within this class of compounds

How context links to best practice use in long-term care homes: a mixed methods study

Duan Y, Wang J, Lanham HJ, et al. How context links to best practice use in long-term care homes: a mixed methods study. Implementation Science Communications . 2024;5(1): 63.BACKGROUND: Context (work environment) plays a crucial role in implementing evidence-based best practices within health care settings. Context is multi-faceted and its complex relationship with best practice use by care aides in long-term care (LTC) homes are understudied. This study used an innovative approach to investigate how context elements interrelate and influence best practice use by LTC care aides.; METHODS: In this secondary analysis study, we combined coincidence analysis (a configurational comparative method) and qualitative analysis to examine data collected through the Translating Research in Elder Care (TREC) program. Coincidence analysis of clinical microsystem (care unit)-level data aggregated from a survey of 1,506 care aides across 36 Canadian LTC homes identified configurations (paths) of context elements linked consistently to care aides' best practices use, measured with a scale of conceptual research use (CRU). Qualitative analysis of ethnographic case study data from 3 LTC homes (co-occurring with the survey) further informed interpretation of the configurations.; RESULTS: Three paths led to very high CRU at the care unit level: very high leadership; frequent use of educational materials; or a combination of very high social capital (teamwork) and frequent communication between care aides and clinical educators or specialists. Conversely, 2 paths led to very low CRU, consisting of 3 context elements related to unfavorable conditions in relationships, resources, and formal learning opportunities. Our qualitative analysis provided insights into how specific context elements served as facilitators or barriers for best practices. This qualitative exploration was especially helpful in understanding 2 of the paths, illustrating the pivotal role of leadership and the function of teamwork in mitigating the negative impact of time constraints.; CONCLUSIONS: Our study deepens understanding of the complex interrelationships between context elements and their impact on the implementation of best practices in LTC homes. The findings underscore that there is no singular, universal bundle of context-related elements that enhance or hinder best practice use in LTC homes. © 2024. The Author(s)