bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐Analyte Sensitive Fluorophore Cross‐Linked Nanofibers Based Antimicrobial Surface Enabling Bacterial Detection and Their Usage as Crystal Growth Template
Authors: Dikmen Zeynep , Bütün Vural
Published: August 2023

In situ preparation of bifunctional thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole (TTz)‐based fluorophore cross‐linked nanofibers is successfully performed. These multifunctional nanofibers are used as both crystal growth template and antibacterial substrate that makes bacterial detection possible simultaneously. These highly fluorescent nanofibers act as optical sensors toward many analytes. The acid, base, and metal cation‐sensitive nature of the 2,5‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole (HPhTT) dye makes the prepared PVA nanofibers sensitive against these chemicals. Metal nanoparticles (MNPs) or metal oxide crystal formation occurs on the surface of nanofibers without any reducing agent. The strong interaction between metal cations and fluorophores results in crystal formation on the surface, which is named for the first time as “complexation‐triggered crystalization.” These dye cross‐linked and metal‐interacted nanofibers exhibit antibacterial effect against E. coli (ATCC 25922), S. aureus (ATCC 25923), P. aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), and E. faecalis (ATCC 25922) strains. Also, the emission wavelength change of nanofibers in bacterial contamination makes it possible to use smart nanofiber films for optical bacteria detection. These novel materials pave the way for new applications such as smart wound bands, optical sensors, and one‐step preparation of surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy substrate.
Building Porous Ni(Salen)‐Based Catalysts from Waste Styrofoam via Autocatalytic Coupling Chemistry for Heterogeneous Oxidation with Molecular Oxygen
Authors: Wan Shuocheng , Zou Qingyang , Zhu Jiawen , Luo Huimin , Li Yuqiang , Abu‐Reziq Raed , Tang Juntao , Tang Ruiren , Pan Chunyue , Zhang Chunyan , Yu Guipeng
Published: August 2023

The development of robust and industrially viable catalysts from plastic waste is of great significance, and the facile construction of high performance heterogeneous catalyst systems for phenol–quinone conversions remains a grand challenge. Herein, a feasible strategy is demonstrated to reclaim Styrofoam into hierarchically porous nickel–salen–loaded hypercrosslinked polystyrene (PS@Ni–salen) catalysts with high activities through an unusual autocatalytic coupling route. The salen is immobilized onto PS chain by Friedel–Crafts alkylation of benzyl chloride derivatives, and the generated hydrogen chloride coordinately promotes the simultaneous crosslinking and bridge formation between aromatic rings via a Scholl coupling route, leading to hierarchically porous networks. After the metallization with Ni, the resultant networks exhibit high catalytic activity for the oxidation of 2,3,6‐trimethylphenol to 2,3,5‐trimethyl‐1,4‐benzoquinone under mild conditions (303 K, 1 bar of O2). This catalyst also demonstrates attractive recycling performance without an obvious loss of catalytic efficiency over five consecutive cycles. This methodology might provide a potential sustainable alternative to construct environmentally benign and cost‐effective catalysts for specific organic transformation.
Conjugated Polymers from Direct Arylation Polycondensation of 3,4‐Difluorothiophene‐Substituted Aryls: Synthesis and Properties
Authors: Sui Ying , Zhang Xuwen , Xu Chenhui , Shi Yibo , Deng Yunfeng , Han Yang , Geng Yanhou
Published: August 2023

3,4‐Difluorothiophene‐substituted aryls, i.e., 1,4‐bis(3,4‐difluorothiophen‐2‐yl)‐benzene (Ph‐2FTh), 1,4‐bis(3,4‐difluorothiophen‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐difluorobenzene (2FPh‐2FTh), and 4,7‐bis(3,4‐difluorothiophen‐2‐yl)‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole (BTz‐2FTh), are synthesized as C─H monomers for the synthesis of conjugated polymers (CPs) via direct arylation polycondensation (DArP) with diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) and isoindigo (IID) derivatives as C─Br monomers. The Gibbs free energies of activation for direct arylation (ΔG298 K, kcal mol−1) for α─C─H bonds of thiophene moieties as calculated by density functional theory (DFT) are 14.3, 16.5, and 16.4 kcal mol−1 for Ph‐2FTh, 2FPh‐2FTh and BTz‐2FTh, respectively, meaning that inserting an electron‐deficient unit in 3,3′,4,4′‐tetrafluoro‐2,2′‐bithiophene (4FBT, ΔG298K: 14.6 kcal mol−1) may cause a reactivity decrease of the C─H monomers. Photophysical and semiconducting properties of the resulting six CPs (i.e., DPP‐Ph, DPP‐2FPh, DPP‐BTz, 2FIID‐Ph, 2FIID‐2FPh, and 2FIID‐BTz) are characterized in detail. DPP‐based CPs show ambipolar transport properties while IID‐based ones exhibited n‐type behavior owing to the deeper frontier molecular orbital energy levels of IID‐based CPs. With source/drain electrodes modified with polyethylenimine ethoxylated, n‐channel organic thin‐film transistors with maximum electron mobility of 0.40, 0.54, 0.29, 0.05, 0.16, and 0.01 cm2 V−1 s−1 for DPP‐Ph, DPP‐2FPh, DPP‐BTz, 2FIID‐Ph, 2FIID‐2FPh, and 2FIID‐BTz, respectively, are fabricated. DPP‐2FPh exhibits the best device performance due to the good film morphology and the highest intermolecular packing order.
Latissimus dorsi myocutaneous free flap for post‐sacrectomy reconstruction: Outcomes compared with gluteal muscle flap
Authors: Lee Dianne Dong Un , Park Se‐Jun , Lee Kyeong‐Tae
Published: August 2023

Background

Excision of sacral tumor results in extensive defects and vital organ exposure, requiring soft tissue reconstruction for dead space obliteration. Diverse reconstruction options, mainly regional flaps, have been utilized but are limited by high postoperative morbidity. A reliable reconstructive method with low morbidity and facilitated recovery has yet been sought for. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the use of free latissimus dorsi (LD) flap for post‐sacrectomy defect reconstruction by comparing its outcomes with local gluteus maximus (GM) flap.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of all patients with sacral malignancy who underwent partial or total sacrectomy and immediate reconstruction with LD or GM flap between 2013 and 2022. Nineteen patients were analyzed, including 10 GM flaps and nine LD flaps. Postoperative outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

The average size of LD flaps was 173.8 cm2. Seven patients developed complication in the GM group and two patients in the LD group. Complication rate at sacrectomy site was lower in the LD group (p = .003) showing complication‐free sacrectomy site and two donor site seromas. The LD group resulted in shorter hospital stay (p = .033) and earlier ambulation than the GM group (p = .001). Mean follow‐up period was 63 months for GM group and 17 months for LD group. Three patients in the GM group underwent re‐operation, while no delayed complication was observed in the LD group.

Conclusion

Free LD flaps may provide reliable outcomes with early recovery and may be considered an effective option for sacrectomy defect reconstruction.
Predicting user loyalty and repeat intention to donate towards fantasy sports gaming platforms: A large‐sample study based on a model integrating philanthropic actions, well‐being and flow experience
Authors: Suryavanshi A. K. S. , Thomas Sujo , Trivedi Twinkle , Patel Ritesh , Bhatt Viral
Published: August 2023

India has become one of the world's largest gaming destinations, and in the last few years, the rapid rise of online gaming has led to the domination of fantasy sports gaming platforms. Very little is understood about how users on fantasy sports gaming platforms perceive and approach giving and what essentially matters to users before selecting or engaging with such fantasy sports gaming platforms. This study aims to predict user loyalty and repeat intention to donate towards fantasy sports gaming platforms by examining philanthropic actions, well‐being (WB) and flow experience (FE). A large‐scale research study on 2091 samples was undertaken by adopting three‐fold SEM‐ANN‐NCA (structural equation modeling‐artificial neural network‐necessary condition analysis) for establishing and empirically testing a comprehensive model by integrating philanthropic actions, WB and FE to predict user loyalty and repeat intention to donate towards online fantasy sports gaming platforms. The findings add depth to our understanding of philanthropic actions linked to fantasy sports gaming platforms and users' loyalty and donation intentions towards such platforms. The results of ANN indicated the normalized importance of the predictors of user loyalty and found that philanthropic action was the strongest predictor. Likewise, philanthropic actions, WB, and FE were necessary conditions (must‐have) to determine user loyalty during NCA. The findings would provide invaluable intelligence to fantasy gaming companies to oversee critical philanthropic decisions proficiently. In addition, the results would provide valuable insights to decision‐makers in philanthropic foundations and other entities, such as practitioners and online fantasy gaming companies, to devise effective marketing strategies to gauge user loyalty and shape donation intentions.
Practitioner approaches to trade‐off decision‐making in marine conservation development
Authors: Fortnam M. , Chaigneau T. , Evans L. , Bastian L.
Published: August 2023

Mounting evidence suggests that win‐wins are elusive and trade‐offs are the norm in marine conservation development practice. The status quo involves trade‐offs, and any change brought to ecosystems, economies and societies will alter the distribution of costs and benefits, creating other winners and losers among ecosystem services, sectors and people.

While studies are increasingly acknowledging the prevalence of trade‐offs, this article analyses how practitioners working for conservation development agencies consider, facilitate and make trade‐off decisions a priori and post hoc when designing and implementing marine conservation development programmes in Southeast Asia.

We find that these practitioners recognize both substantive trade‐offs, which are diverse social and ecological trade‐offs resulting from their programmes, and process trade‐offs, related to how they design programmes, including between their prioritization of different locations; between strategic relationships; and between the efficacy, equity and sustainability of projects.

Existing decision support tools only capture a limited range of substantive (mainly ecological) trade‐offs, however, and are not widely used. Typically, social trade‐offs are not systematically assessed. Instead, they are implicitly identified by participants and beneficiaries voicing their concerns during consultation processes.

Importantly, whether a trade‐off is then deemed acceptable is not determined through transparent assessment of trade‐offs and principles of equity or justice but by the uneven political power of stakeholders to project their values in decision‐making processes.

The article concludes that practitioners should facilitate inclusive, transparent and systematic identification and deliberation of the social acceptability of multidimensional trade‐offs, and formulate response options to avoid or minimize adverse consequences. Tackling trade‐offs in this way has the potential to make invisible trade‐offs visible and improve the sustainability and legitimacy of marine conservation development programmes while promoting the interests of the most marginalized in efforts to achieve the sustainable development goals.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Recent advancement in surface modification of aramid fiber assisted by supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Patadiya Jigar , Chougale Prajakta Vilas , Naebe Minoo , Kandasubramanian Balasubramanian , Mahajan‐Tatpate Pallavi
Published: August 2023

The exceptional mechanical properties of aramid fibers make them a popular choice for high‐performance materials; despite that, their potential is limited due to their surface properties bonding energy and interfacial bonding strength with matrix materials. The enhanced resistance of poly‐aramid fibers (AFs) to severe surroundings and improved interlaminar adhesion in sandwich compounds with admirable mechanical characteristics are becoming a great challenge for various chemical and physical surface treatment techniques. Supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) is a popular and sustainable approach that can effectively bond and homogeneously deposit functional groups or nanoparticles and exhibit the excellent performance of fibber modification. This article examines aramid fibers' surface modification advancements using scCO2‐assisted techniques, including monomer grafting, impregnation, and functionalization with various functional groups and nanoparticles. Additionally, the article discusses the challenges faced in scCO2‐assisted aramid fiber modification and what the future holds for this technology.
IncorporatedTiO2nanoparticles intoPVC/PMMApolymer blend for enhancing the optical and electrical/dielectric properties: Hybrid nanocomposite films for flexible optoelectronic devices
Authors: Al‐Muntaser A. , Abo‐Dief Hala M. , Tarabiah A. E. , Alzahrani Eman , Alsalmah Hessa A. , Alharbi Zeinab M. , Pashameah Rami Adel , Saeed Abdu
Published: August 2023

In the present work, sol–gel‐synthesized titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) were added to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) to create polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) samples. The preparation was carried out via the solution casting method. The synthesized TiO2NPs have a tetragonal anatase phase and an average grain size of 15.7 nm. XRD analysis reveals that the TiO2NPs' addition to PVC/PMMA causes a decrease in the crystallinity of PNCs films. Infrared Fourier analysis demonstrated the interplay/complexity between the PVC/PMMA blend and TiO2NPs. The UV/visible spectrum of the PVC/PMMA blend showed two absorbance peaks at 278 and 208 nm, which may result from the n → π* and π → π* transitions. Also, optical bandgaps for indirect and direct allowed transitions decreased with increasing TiO2NPs concentration. The samples' AC electrical conductivity and dielectric properties were measured at room temperature. As the TiO2NPs content in the nanocomposite rises, a percolating network begins to emerge inside the composite, demonstrating that AC electrical conductivity obeys Jonscher's law. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that nanoparticle concentration leads to a higher composite dielectric loss and dielectric constant. These findings suggest the possibility of using the prepared nanocomposites in capacitive energy storage and optoelectronic devices.

Highlights

PVC/PMMA‐TiO2nanocomposites' films were fabricated via the solution casting method.

Adding TiO2NPs to PVC/PMMA reduces the crystallinity of the PNCs films.

The allowed direct and indirect bandgaps decreased with rising TiO2NPs content.

AC conductivity, impedance, and dielectric characteristics were discussed.

The findings indicate the use of prepared samples in optoelectronic devices.
Soiling mitigation potential of glass coatings and tracker routines in the desert climate of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khan Muhammad Zahid , Willers Guido , Alowais Abdullah Ali , Naumann Volker , Mirza Mark , Grunwald Erik , Qasem Hussam , Gottschalg Ralph , Ilse Klemens
Published: August 2023

High levels of airborne dust, frequent dust storms and infrequent rain events are some of the reasons why soiling can drastically reduce the energy yield of photovoltaic modules in desert areas. There are ongoing and increasing efforts to identify appropriate and economically feasible strategies that can be used to mitigate soiling in deserts. Both innovative tracking with adapted resting positions during night and anti‐soiling coatings (ASCs) are considered as potential solutions to reduce soiling. In this study, the individual mitigation potential of both ASC and tracking routines as well as the combination of the two approaches are investigated. For this, outdoor exposure tests were carried out in desert region of Saudi Arabia. Coated and uncoated glass samples were tested in different tilt configurations: fixed, 1‐axis tracking with horizontal stowage (facing the sky) and 1‐axis tracking with vertical stowage during the night. Both methods indicate significant soiling reductions, especially for the combined solution of ASC and tracking with vertical night stowage, where soiling losses can be reduced by up to 85%. In addition, it has been shown that the relative ASC performance can be improved when using vertical night stowage compared to fixed tilt or standard 1‐axis tracking scenarios.
Fabrication of Solid‐State Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells by Controlled Evaporation of Solvents for Creation of Facile Charge Transport Pathway
Authors: Kurokawa Yuki , Kato Takehito , Pandey Shyam S.
Published: August 2023

Solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells (ss‐DSSCs) based on MK‐2 dye‐sensitized TiO2 photoanode and the most commonly used I−/I3− redox electrolyte are successfully fabricated by the simple method of solidification of the injected liquid electrolyte under slow solvent evaporation. The use of the ionic liquid, which is solid at room temperature, and slow evaporation of solvent at low temperature is a key step for solidification toward the fabrication of ss‐DSSCs. It has been demonstrated that ss‐DSSCs thus fabricated not only retain about 80% of photoconversion efficiency (PCE) as compared to their liquid‐state DSSCs counterpart but also maintain the device stability for more than 1000 h. PCE of the ss‐DSSCs is found to increase as a function of the increasing concentration of the ionic liquid used for electrolyte preparation. In the case of ss‐DSSCs with the ionic liquid concentration of 1.2 m, there is a good balance between PCE and durability leading to not only retention of about 70% of PCE as compared to its liquid‐state DSSCs counterparts but also maintaining the stability of the solar cell for more than 1000 h stored at room temperature.
Detection of Harmful Chemical Compounds in Plastic Products Using a High‐Sensitivity Photonic Crystal‐Based Sensor
Authors: Taya Sofyan A. , Srour Samer M. , Almawgani Abdulkarem H. M. , Hindi Ayman Taher , Colak Ilhami , Patel Shobhit K.
Published: August 2023

The use of plastics can be dangerous due to the numerous industrial chemicals they contain. Di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), bisphenol A (BPA), and bisphenol S (BPS) are three detrimental organic chemicals that are used in the plastic industry. In this work, a highly sensitive photonic crystal (PCL) sensor is theoretically proposed and numerically simulated as a detector for DEHP, BPA, and BPS organic chemicals. The proposed PCL is a 1D that has the structure (GaAs/Si3N4/TiN)N/cavity layer/(GaAs/Si3N4/TiN)N, where N is the number of unit cells (UCs). The DEHP, BPA, and BPS analytes are assumed to be separately infiltrated into the cavity layer between two equal numbers of the UCs. The transmission spectra of the PCL are studied using the transfer matrix (TrMx) technique. The most important performance parameter is sensitivity so we have focused on it. A considerable sensitivity enhancement is obtained by raising the defect layer thickness and incidence angle. High sensitivities of 2350.51, 2168.45, and 2042.08 nm RIU−1 are obtained for DEHP, BPA, and BPS, respectively. In the results obtained, the way can be paved for a simple technique to detect chemical compounds.
Optimal perfect corrective maintenance policy for a system with multiple components using data‐driven decision‐making methods
Authors: Misaii Hasan , Fouladirad Mitra , Haghighi Firoozeh
Published: August 2023

This paper considers a multicomponent series system to be inspected periodically. It is assumed that the exact cause of system failure might be unknown, and we only know that it belongs to a subset of all components, called masked set. In this case, it is said that the exact cause of failure is masked. A perfect corrective maintenance policy is applied to repair the system, such that a failed component is replaced by a new one at the first inspection time after failure. The distance between each two inspections is considered a decision parameter that should be optimized. Three levels of information availability are considered, including full, partial, and noninformation availability, in which the maintenance policy should be optimized. The former is considered a benchmark, and the statistical and machine learning data‐driven algorithms are used to estimate the cost for the other two information levels. Eventually, using Monte Carlo simulation studies, the proposed method application is analyzed.
Phase‐space relative Rényi entropy in density functional theory
Authors: Nagy Ágnes
Published: August 2023

The phase‐space relative Rényi entropy is introduced using the information theoretical and thermodynamic view of density functional theory. In the special case of constant inverse temperature the phase‐space relative Rényi entropy is a sum of the position‐space relative Rényi entropy and a term arising from the momentum space. This quantity can be considered as a measure of similarity. It includes more information than the position‐space measures, since it also incorporates momentum‐space knowledge.
A semi‐automated camera trap distance sampling approach for population density estimation
Authors: Henrich Maik , Burgueño Mercedes , Hoyer Jacqueline , Haucke Timm , Steinhage Volker , Kühl Hjalmar S. , Heurich Marco
Published: August 2023

Camera traps have become important tools for the monitoring of animal populations. However, the study‐specific estimation of animal detection probabilities is key if unbiased abundance estimates of unmarked species are to be obtained. Since this process can be very time‐consuming, we developed the first semi‐automated workflow for animals of any size and shape to estimate detection probabilities and population densities. In order to obtain observation distances, a deep learning algorithm is used to create relative depth images that are calibrated with a small set of reference photos for each location, with distances then extracted for animals automatically detected by MegaDetector 4.0. Animal detection by MegaDetector was generally independent of the distance to the camera trap for 10 animal species at two different study sites. If an animal was detected both manually and automatically, the difference in the distance estimates was often minimal at a distance about 4 m from the camera trap. The difference increased approximately linearly for larger distances. Nonetheless, population density estimates based on manual and semi‐automated camera trap distance sampling workflows did not differ significantly. Our results show that a readily available software for semi‐automated distance estimation can reliably be used within a camera trap distance sampling workflow, reducing the time required for data processing, by >13‐fold. This greatly improves the accessibility of camera trap distance sampling for wildlife research and management.
Carbon‐Based Nanomaterials Electrodes of Ionic Soft Actuators: From Initial 1D Structure to 3D Composite Structure for Flexible Intelligent Devices
Authors: Wang Bozheng , Huang Peng , Li Bingjue , Wu Ze , Xing Youqiang , Zhu Jianxiong , Liu Lei
Published: August 2023

With the rapid development of autonomous and intelligent devices driven by soft actuators, ion soft actuators in flexible intelligent devices have several advantages over other actuators, including their light weight, low voltage drive, large strain, good flexibility, fast response, etc. Traditional ionic polymer metal composites have received a lot of attention over the past decades, but they suffer from poor driving performance and short service lives since the precious metal electrodes are not only expensive, heavy, and labor‐intensive, but also prone to cracking with repeated actuation. As excellent candidates for the electrode materials of ionic soft actuators, carbon‐based nanomaterials have received a lot of interest because of their plentiful reserves, low cost, and excellent mechanical, electrical, and electrochemical properties. This research reviewed carbon‐based nanomaterial electrodes of ion soft actuators for flexible smart devices from a fresh perspective from 1D to 3D combinations. The design of the electrode structure is introduced after the driving mechanism of ionic soft actuators. The details of ionic soft actuator electrodes made of carbon‐based nanomaterials are then provided. Additionally, a summary of applications for flexible intelligent devices is provided. Finally, suggestions for challenges and prospects are made to offer direction and inspiration for further development.
Multifunctional Catalytic Hierarchical Interfaces of Ni12P5‐Ni2P Porous Nanosheets Enabled Both Sulfides Reaction Promotion and Li‐Dendrite Suppression for High‐Performance Li–S Full Batteries
Authors: Xu Shuzheng , Guo Meng , Fang Zhenchun , Wang Yinan , Li Hongda , Chang Haixin , Zhou Guowei , Gu Shaonan
Published: August 2023

The development of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries is very promising and yet faces the issues of hindered polysulfides conversion and Li dendrite growth. Different from using different materials strategies to overcome these two types of problems, here multifunctional catalytic hierarchical interfaces of Ni12P5–Ni2P porous nanosheets formed by Ni2P partially in situ converted from Ni12P5 are proposed. The unique electronic structure in the interface endows Ni12P5–Ni2P effective electrocatalysis effect toward both sulfides’ reduction and oxidation through reducing Gibbs free energies, indicating a bidirectional conversion acceleration. Importantly, Ni12P5–Ni2P porous nanosheets with hierarchical interfaces also reduced the Li nucleation energy barrier, and a dendrite‐free Li deposition is realized during the overall Li deposition and stripping steps. To this end, Ni12P5‐Ni2P decorated carbon nanotube/S cathode showing a high capacity of over 1500 mAh g‒1, and a high rate capability of 8 C. Moreover, the coin full cell delivered a high capacity of 1345 mAh g‒1 at 0.2 C and the pouch full cell delivered a high capacity of 1114 mAh g‒1 at 0.2 C with high electrochemical stability during 180° bending. This work inspires the exploration of hierarchical structures of 2D materials with catalytically active interfaces to improve the electrochemistry of Li–S full battery.
A Lotus Seedpods‐Inspired Interfacial Solar Steam Generator with Outstanding Salt Tolerance and Mechanical Properties for Efficient and Stable Seawater Desalination
Authors: Ma Haodong , Yu Lingjie , Li Zhenzhen , Chen Jianglong , Meng Jiaguang , Song Qingwen , Liu Yaming , Wang Yongzhen , Wu Qian , Miao Menghe , Zhi Chao
Published: August 2023

Interfacial solar steam generators (ISSGs) can capture solar energy and concentrate the heat at the gas–liquid interface, resulting in efficient water evaporation. However, traditional ISSGs have limitations in long‐term seawater desalination processes, such as limited light absorption area, slow water transport speed, severe surface salt accumulation, and weak mechanical performance. Inspired by lotus seedpods, a novel ISSG (rGO‐SA‐PSF) is developed by treating a 3D warp‐knitted spacer fabric with plasma (PSF) and combining it with sodium alginate (SA) and reduces graphene oxide (rGO). The rGO‐SA‐PSF utilizes a core‐suction effect to achieve rapid water pumping and employs aerogel to encapsulate the plasma‐treated spacer yarns to create the lotus seedpod‐inspired hydrophilic stems, innovatively constructing multiple directional water transport channels. Simultaneously, the large holes of rGO‐SA‐PSF on the upper layer form lotus seedpod‐inspired head concave holes, enabling efficient light capture. Under 1 kW m−2 illumination, rGO‐SA‐PSF exhibits a rapid evaporation rate of 1.85 kg m−2 h−1, with an efficiency of 96.4%. Additionally, it shows superior salt tolerance (with no salt accumulation during continuous evaporation for 10 h in 10% brine) and self‐desalination performance during long‐term seawater desalination processes. This biomimetic ISSG offers a promising solution for efficient and stable seawater desalination and wastewater purification.
Sequence‐Responsive Multifunctional Supramolecular Nanomicelles Act on the Regression of TNBC and Its Lung Metastasis via Synergic Pyroptosis‐Mediated Immune Activation
Authors: Wang Xing , Li Yuanhang , Hasrat Kamran , Yang Li , Qi Zhengjian
Published: August 2023

Design of effective nanodrugs to modulate the immunosuppression of tumor microenvironment is a desirable approach to boost the clinical tumor‐therapeutic effect. Supramolecular nanomicelles PolyMN‐TO‐8, which are constructed by self‐assembling supramolecular host MTX‐MPEG2000, guest NPX‐2S, and TO‐8 through hydrophobic forces, have excellent stability and responsiveness to carboxylesterase and glutathione in turn. In vivo studies validate that PolyMN‐TO‐8 enable to trigger pyroptosis‐mediated immunogenic cell death under laser, avoiding the occurrence of immune dysregulation simultaneously. This therapeutic mode strengthens dendritic cells’ maturation and accelerates the infiltration of CD8+ T cells into tumors through moderate activation of pro‐inflammatory factors with elimination of immune‐escape, ultimately making the tumor inhibition rate as high as 87.44% via synergistic functions of photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, chemotherapy, etc. The loss of immune‐escape quickens the infiltration of CD8+ T cells into lungs, and further eschews the generation of tumor nodules in it. Chemotherapy, the release of interferon‐γ, and immune memory effect also strengthen the defense against metastasis. The generation of O2 catalyzed by PolyMN‐TO‐8 under laser is indispensable for tumor metastasis inhibition undoubtedly.
Ultrafine Pt Nanoparticles Anchored on 2D Metal−Organic Frameworks as Multifunctional Electrocatalysts for Water Electrolysis and Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Wang Chao‐Peng , Lian Xin , Lin Yu‐Xuan , Cui Lei , Li Chen‐Ning , Li Na , Zhang An‐Ni , Yin Jun , Kang Joohoon , Zhu Jian , Bu Xian‐He
Published: August 2023

Multifunctional electrocatalysts are crucial to cost‐effective electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems requiring mutual enhancement of disparate reactions. Embedding noble metal nanoparticles in 2D metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are proposed as an effective strategy, however, the hybrids usually suffer from poor electrochemical performance and electrical conductivity in operating conditions. Herein, ultrafine Pt nanoparticles strongly anchored on thiophenedicarboxylate acid based 2D Fe‐MOF nanobelt arrays (Pt@Fe‐MOF) are fabricated, allowing sufficient exposure of active sites with superior trifunctional electrocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution, oxygen evolution, and oxygen reduction reactions. The interfacial Fe─O─Pt bonds can induce the charge redistribution of metal centers, leading to the optimization of adsorption energy for reaction intermediates, while the dispersibility of ultrafine Pt nanoparticles contributes to the high mass activity. When Pt@Fe‐MOF is used as bifunctional catalysts for water‐splitting, a low voltage of 1.65 V is required at 100 mA cm−2 with long‐term stability for 20 h at temperatures (65 °C) relevant for industrial applications, outperforming commercial benchmarks. Furthermore, liquid Zn–air batteries with Pt@Fe‐MOF in cathodes deliver high open‐circuit voltages (1.397 V) and decent cycling stability, which motivates the fabrication of flexible quasisolid‐state rechargeable Zn–air batteries with remarkable performance.
Oxygen Vacancy‐Tailored Schottky Heterojunction Activates Interface Dipole Amplification and Carrier Inversion for High‐Performance Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Hsieh Yi‐Yen , Tuan Hsing‐Yu
Published: August 2023

An oxygen vacancy‐tailored Schottky heterostructure composed of polyvinylpyrrolidone‐assisted Bi2Sn2O7 (PVPBSO) nanocrystals and moderate work function graphene (mWFG, WF = 4.36 eV) is designed, which in turn intensifies the built‐in voltage and interface dipole across the space charge region (SCR), leading to the inversion of majority carriers for facilitating K+ transport/diffusion behaviors. Thorough band‐alignment experiments and interface simulations reveal the dynamics between deficient BSO and mWFG, and how charge redistribution within the SCR leads to carrier inversion, demonstrating the impact of different defect engineering degrees on the amplification of Schottky junctions. The ordered transport of bipolar carriers can boost electrons and K ions easily passing through the inner and outer surfaces of the heterostructure. With high activity and low resistance in electrochemical reactions, the PVPBSO/mWFG exhibits an attractive capacity of 430 mA h g−1 and a rate capability exceeding 2000 mA g−1, accompanied by minimal polarization and efficient utilization of conversion‐alloying reactions. The substantial cell capacity and high‐redox plateau of PVPBSO/mWFG//PB contribute to the practical feasibility of high‐energy full batteries, offering long‐cycle retention and high‐voltage output. This study emphasizes the direct importance of interface and junction engineering in improving the efficiency of diverse electrochemical kinetic and diffusion processes for potassium‐ion batteries.
Homogeneous Bridging Induces Compact and Scalable Perovskite Thick Films for X‐Ray Flat‐Panel Detectors
Authors: Chai Yingjun , Jiang Chaoyan , Hu Xudong , Han Jiguang , Wang Yao , Yang Wanqiu , Li Chongkang , Zeng Haibo , Li Xiaoming
Published: August 2023

Solution‐processed organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite polycrystalline thick films have shown great potential in X‐ray detection. However, the preparation of compact perovskite thick films with large area is still challenging due to the limitation of feasible ink formulation and pinholes caused by solvent volatilization. Post‐treatment and hot‐pressing are usually involved to improve the film quality, which is however unsuitable for subsequent integration. In this work, a homogeneous bridging strategy is developed to prepare compact perovskite films directly. A stable perovskite slurry with suitable viscosity consisting of undissolved grains and supersaturated solution is formed by adding a weak coordination solvent to the pre‐synthesized microcrystalline powders. Small perovskite grains in situ grow from the saturated solution during the annealing, filling the pinholes and connecting the surrounding original grains. As a result, large‐area perovskite thick film with tight grain arrangement and ultralow current drift is blade‐coated to achieve X‐ray imaging. The optimal device displays an impressive mobility‐lifetime product of 2.2 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 and a champion ratio of sensitivity to the dark current density of 2.23 × 1011 µC Gyair−1 A−1. This work provides a simple and effective route to prepare high‐quality perovskite thick films, which is instructive for the development of perovskite‐based X‐ray flat‐panel detectors.
Boron‐Doped Nickel–Nitrogen–Carbon Single‐Atom Catalyst for Boosting Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Song Jian , Lei Xue , Mu Jiali , Li Jingwei , Song Xiangen , Yan Li , Ding Yunjie
Published: August 2023

Tuning the coordination environment of the metal center in metal–nitrogen–carbon (M–N–C) single‐atom catalysts via heteroatom‐doping (oxygen, phosphorus, sulfur, etc.) is effective for promoting electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). However, few studies are investigated establishing efficient CO2 reduction by introducing boron (B) atoms to regulate the M–N–C structure. Herein, a B‐C3N4 self‐sacrifice strategy is developed to synthesize B, N co‐coordinated Ni single atom catalyst (Ni‐BNC). X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy confirm the structure (Ni‐N3B/C). The Ni‐BNC catalyst presents a maximum CO Faradaic efficiency (FECO) of 98.8% and a large CO current density (jCO) of −62.9 mA cm−2 at −0.75 and −1.05 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, respectively. Furthermore, FECO could be maintained above 95% in a wide range of potential windows from −0.65 to −1.05 V. In situ experiments and density functional theory calculations demonstrate the Ni‐BNC catalyst with B atoms coordinated to the central Ni atoms could significantly reduce the energy barrier for the conversion of *CO2 to *COOH, leading to excellent CO2RR performance.
Deciphering the Mechanism of Crystallization of UiO‐66 Metal‐Organic Framework
Authors: Semivrazhskaya Olesya O. , Salionov Daniil , Clark Adam H. , Casati Nicola P. M. , Nachtegaal Maarten , Ranocchiari Marco , Bjelić Saša , Verel René , van Bokhoven Jeroen A. , Sushkevich Vitaly L.
Published: August 2023

Zirconium‐containing metal‐organic framework (MOF) with UiO‐66 topology is an extremely versatile material, which finds applications beyond gas separation and catalysis. However, after more than 10 years after the first reports introducing this MOF, understanding of the molecular‐level mechanism of its nucleation and growth is still lacking. By means of in situ time‐resolved high‐resolution mass spectrometry, Zr K‐edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, magic‐angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction it is showed that the nucleation of UiO‐66 occurs via a solution‐mediated hydrolysis of zirconium chloroterephthalates, whose formation appears to be autocatalytic. Zirconium‐oxo nodes form directly and rapidly during the synthesis, the formation of pre‐formed clusters and stable non‐stoichiometric intermediates are not observed. The nuclei of UiO‐66 possess identical to the crystals local environment, however, they lack long‐range order, which is gained during the crystallization. Crystal growth is the rate‐determining step, while fast nucleation controls the formation of the small crystals of UiO‐66 with a narrow size distribution of about 200 nanometers.
PDI‐Based Organic Small Molecule Regulated by Inter/Intramolecular Interactions for Efficient Solar Vapor Generation
Authors: Shao Changxiang , Guo Bingpeng , Lu Bing , Yu Jiahui , Kong Huijun , Wang Baolei , Ding Meichun , Li Chenwei
Published: August 2023

Organic small molecules with processing feasibility, structural diversity, and fine‐tuned properties have the potential applications in solar vapor generation. However, the common defects of narrow solar absorption, low photothermal conversion efficiency, and photobleaching result in limited materials available and unsatisfactory evaporation performance. Herein, the perylene diimide (PDI) derivatives are exploited as stable sunlight absorbers for solar vapor generation. Particularly, the N,N'‐bis(3,4,5‐trimethoxyphenyl)−3,4,9,10‐perylenetetracarboxylic diimide (PDI‐DTMA) is well‐designed with donor–acceptor–donor configuration based on plane rigid PDI core. The efficient photothermal conversion is enabled through strong intermolecular π–π stacking and intramolecular charge transfer, as revealed by experimental demonstration and theoretical calculation. The PDI‐DTMA with a narrow band gap of 1.17 eV exhibits expanded absorption spectrum and enhanced nonradiative transition capability. The 3D hybrid hydrogels (PPHs) combining PDI‐DTMA and polyvinyl alcohol are constructed. With the synergistic effect of solar‐to‐heat conversion, thermal localization management, water activation, and unobstructed water transmission of PPHs, the high water evaporation rates can reach 3.61–10.07 kg m−2 h−1 under one sun. The hydrogels also possess great potential in seawater desalination and sewage treatment. Overall, this work provides valuable insights into the design of photothermal organic small molecules and demonstrates their potentials in solar water evaporation.
Asymmetric Dehydrative Allylation Using Soft Ruthenium and Hard Brønsted Acid Combined Catalyst
Authors: Tanaka Shinji , Kitamura Masato
Published: August 2023

Asymmetric Pd‐catalyzed Tsuji‐Trost‐type allylation is an important catalytic reaction toward chiral natural and unnatural product syntheses. We successfully modified a desalt‐type reaction using allyl ester or halide to a dehydrative one using allylic alcohol via the establishment of two redox‐mediated donor acceptor bifunctional catalyst systems. These systems were cationic CpRu‐Cl‐Napy‐PyCOOH and cationic CpRu‐Naph‐diPIM‐dioxo‐iPr/p‐TsOH and were designed on the basis of the soft ruthenium and hard Brønsted acid combined catalyst concept. The complementary use of the two chiral catalysts for dehydrative asymmetric allylation expands the application scope facilitating the utilization of both aliphatic and aromatic allylic alcohols with various nucleophiles in the substrate. In this account, the design, synthesis, and application of these catalysts were reported.
Applications of Carbon‐Based Materials in Activated Peroxymonosulfate for the Degradation of Organic Pollutants: A Review
Authors: Hao Liangyun , Zhang Junkai , Liu Jia , Min Yuting , Chen Chunguang
Published: August 2023

In recent years, water pollution has posed a serious threat to aquatic organisms and humans. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) based on activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS) show high oxidation, good selectivity, wide pH range and no secondary pollution in the removal of organic pollutants in water. Carbon‐based materials are emerging green catalysts that can effectively activate persulfates to generate radical and non‐radical active species to degrade organic pollutants. Compared with transition metal catalysts, carbon‐based materials are widely used in SR‐AOPs because of their low cost, non‐toxicity, acid and alkali resistance, large specific surface area, and scalable surface charge, which can be used for selective control of specific water pollutants. This paper mainly presents several carbon‐based materials used to activate PMS, including raw carbon materials and modified carbon materials (heteroatom‐doped and metal‐doped), analyzes and summarizes the mechanism of activating PMS by carbon‐based catalysts, and discusses the influencing factors (temperature, pH, PMS concentration, catalyst concentration, inorganic anions, inorganic cations and dissolved oxygen) in the activation process. Finally, the future challenges and prospects of carbon‐based materials in water pollution control are also presented.
Entropy generation analysis of CNT‐based nanofluid flows induced by a moving plate
Authors: Sarfraz Mahnoor , Khan Masood
Published: August 2023

Carbon nanotubes have garnered considerable interest from academia and industry due to their unique properties and potential applications. This study examines fluid flow induced by a plate moving at a constant velocity towards/receding from normal stagnation point flow. The plate's surface is immersed with ethylene glycol and two types of carbon nanotubes: single‐walled and multi‐walled. The Reynolds number, proportional to the plate's velocity, governs the flow. Thermal transport analysis includes Ohmic heating, heat source/sink effects for constant wall temperature and prescribed surface temperature, and entropy generation analysis. Similarity ansatz is used to obtain non‐dimensional ordinary differential equations, and numerical and asymptotic solutions are computed using MATLAB's bvp4c routine (finite difference‐based approach). By varying the relevant parameters, the study interprets the behavior of entropy generation, Bejan number, skin frictions, Nusselt number, flow, and energy profiles. The numerical solutions are observed to match their asymptotic behaviors within an intermediate range of small and large Reynolds numbers for the wall stress parameter. The magnetic parameter produces a resistive force that reduces fluid flow but enhances the system's energy. Moreover, understanding the flow and heat transfer characteristics of CNT‐based nanofluids induced by a moving plate can provide insights into the design and optimization of thermal systems, including efficient heat exchangers used in power generation, chemical, and petrochemical industries.
Cell-Free Synthesis and Electrophysiological Analysis of Multipass Voltage-Gated Ion Channels Tethered in Microsomal Membranes
Authors: Pandey Yogesh , Dondapati Srujan Kumar , Wüstenhagen Doreen , Kubick Stefan
Published: August 2023

Cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) has emerged as a powerful tool for the rapid synthesis and analysis of various structurally and functionally distinct proteins. These include ‘difficult-to-express’ membrane proteins such as large multipass ion channel receptors. Owing to their membrane localization, eukaryotic CFPS supplemented with endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-derived microsomal vesicles has proven to be an efficient system for the synthesis of functional membrane proteins. Here we demonstrate the applicability of the eukaryotic cell-free systems based on lysates from the mammalian Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) and insect Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf21) cells. We demonstrate the efficiency of the systems in the de novo cell-free synthesis of the human cardiac ion channels: ether-a-go-go potassium channel (hERG) KV11.1 and the voltage-gated sodium channel hNaV1.5.

Graphical Abstract
Characterization of Peptide-Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Edwards-Gayle Charlotte J. C. , Wychowaniec Jacek K.
Published: August 2023

In this chapter, we will thoroughly discuss characterization techniques used to elucidate the exact structure and define properties of peptide-based nanomaterials. In particular we divide methods into:

Quality control performance (mass spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography.

Spectroscopy (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, circular and linear dichroism, nuclear magnetic resonance and fluorescence spectroscopy).

Microscopy (scanning and transmission electron microscopies, atomic force microscopy, optical and polarized light microscopy).

Scattering (small angle X-ray and neutron scattering, X-ray diffraction).

Bulk structures (mainly hydrogels) rheological characterization.

The methodology is described for molecular structures, self-assembled nanostructures and aggregates, as well as hybrid, composite and/or conjugated nanomaterials and their bulk forms. Both common, as well as more exotic versions of all methods are presented in the context of peptide-based nanomaterials. Where utilized, examples of combinatorial use of techniques are demonstrated. Representative studies accompany the discussion and usefulness of all presented methods.
Truth machines: synthesizing veracity in AI language models
Authors: Munn Luke , Magee Liam , Arora Vanicka
Published: August 2023

As AI technologies are rolled out into healthcare, academia, human resources, law, and a multitude of other domains, they become de-facto arbiters of truth. But truth is highly contested, with many different definitions and approaches. This article discusses the struggle for truth in AI systems and the general responses to date. It then investigates the production of truth in InstructGPT, a large language model, highlighting how data harvesting, model architectures, and social feedback mechanisms weave together disparate understandings of veracity. It conceptualizes this performance as an operationalization of truth, where distinct, often-conflicting claims are smoothly synthesized and confidently presented into truth-statements. We argue that these same logics and inconsistencies play out in Instruct’s successor, ChatGPT, reiterating truth as a non-trivial problem. We suggest that enriching sociality and thickening “reality” are two promising vectors for enhancing the truth-evaluating capacities of future language models. We conclude, however, by stepping back to consider AI truth-telling as a social practice: what kind of “truth” do we as listeners desire?