bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐Functional Platform for In‐Memory Computing And Sensing Based on 2D Ferroelectric Semiconductor α‐In2Se3
Authors: Li Xuan , Li Shuo , Tian Jiamin , Lyu Fengjiao , Liao Jianhui , Chen Qing
Published: October 2023

2D layered semiconductors with excellent light−matter interaction and atomic‐scale thickness have been envisioned as promising candidates for more than Moore and beyond Moore technologies. Here, for the first time, a multi‐functional platform is reported that is fabricated entirely from wrinkle‐free 2D ferroelectric semiconductor α‐In2Se3 integrated with a photodetector, reconfigurable logic switching, and visual perception processing functions. The intensity‐ and wavelength‐dependent resistance is used to demodulate broadband optical information into electrical signals and perform reconfigurable logic switching. Moreover, the platform offers dynamically modulated photosensitive visual sensing in different working modes at the pixel level. Using photo‐assisted piezoresponse force microscopy, the optical‐engineered ferroelectric polarization switch behavior is explored. The platform has excellent sensitivity to both optical and electrical stimuli and can respond to lights in the visible to short‐wavelength infrared region in volatile/non‐volatile manner under gate voltage modulation, with a response of 98 mA W−1 (to 1800 nm light), a current on/off ratio of over 106, and a high field‐effect mobility of 137.55 cm2 V−1 s−1. With its simple structure, unique photoelectric interaction, and controllable operating mechanism, the platform has the potential to simplify the complexity of neuromorphic computing circuitry systems, paving the way for high‐performance hybrid technologies suitable for artificial intelligence applications.
Toward a Nanoscale‐Defect‐Free Ni‐Rich Layered Oxide Cathode Through Regulated Pore Evolution for Long‐Lifespan Li Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Song Seok Hyun , Kim Hwa Soo , Kim Kyoung Sun , Hong Seokjae , Jeon Hyungkwon , Lim Jun , Jung Young Hwa , Ahn Hyungju , Jang Jong Dae , Kim Man‐Ho , Seo Jong Hyeok , Kwon Ji‐Hwan , Kim Dokyung , Lee Young Joo , Han Young‐Soo , Park Kyu‐Young , Kim Chunjoong , Yu Seung‐Ho , Park Hyeokjun , Jin Hyeong Min , Kim Hyungsub
Published: October 2023

Ni‐rich layered oxides are envisioned as the most promising cathode materials for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries; however, their practical adoption is plagued by fast capacity decay originating from chemo‐mechanical degradation. The intrinsic chemical–mechanical instability, inherited from atomic‐ and nanoscale defects generated during synthesis, is not yet resolved. Here, atomic‐ and nanoscale structural evolution during solid‐state synthesis of Ni‐rich layered cathode, Li[Ni0.92Co0.03Mn0.05]O2, is investigated using combined X‐ray/neutron scattering and electron/X‐ray microscopy. The multiscale analyses demonstrate the intertwined correlation between phase transition and microstructural evolution, with atomic‐scale defects derived from the decomposition of precursors leading to the creation of intra/inter‐granular pores. The nucleation and coalescence mechanism of pore defects during the synthesis of Ni‐rich layered cathodes are quantitatively revealed. Furthermore, a modified synthetic route is proposed to effectively circumvent the formation of nanoscale defects in Ni‐rich layered cathodes by facilitating uniform synthetic reactions, resulting in superior electrochemical and microstructural stability.
Cellulose‐Based pH‐Responsive Janus Dressing with Unidirectional Moisture Drainage for Exudate Management and Diabetic Wounds Healing
Authors: Xu Zhan , Fan Jialiang , Tian Weiguo , Ji Xin , Cui Yuqian , Nan Qinying , Sun Feifei , Zhang Jun
Published: October 2023

Diabetic wounds with hyperglycemic tissue exudates and bacterial infections have become a great challenge that seriously delays the healing of diabetic wounds. Therefore, multifunctional  dressings for exudate management of diabetic wound are urgently needed. Herein, a smart dressing with rapid moisture‐drained and non‐adhesive, pH‐responsive, and antibacterial capabilities is proposed for exudate management and wound monitoring. The Janus dressing is assembled with an antioxidant, pH‐sensitive, and hydrophilic cellulose cover and an antibacterial hydrophobic polycaprolactone bottom layer that directly contacts with the wounds, which can unidirectionally and irreversibly drain the wound exudates and weaken the wet adhesion to the wound. In response to the humoral pH variations (5‐9) during the healing process ofdiabetic wounds, the healing process can be in situ monitored according to the distinct pH‐responsive colors of the Janus dressing at different healing stages. In vivo assays and histopathological studies suggest that the Janus dressing has a superior pro‐healing rate, collagen deposition, and angiogenesis than commercial gauze. Notably, such a mulitfunctional dressing provides real‐time wound monitoring simply through a smartphone integrated with Python‐RGB programs, which can significantly alleviate the hyperglycemic exudate‐flooded environment as an alternative strategy for diabetic wound treatment.
Pivotal Role of Organic Materials in Aqueous Zinc‐Based Batteries: Regulating Cathode, Anode, Electrolyte, and Separator
Authors: Chen Wei , Chen Tao , Fu Jiajun
Published: October 2023

Aqueous zinc‐based batteries have garnered considerable interest as promising energy storage devices due to the low cost, remarkable energy density, high safety, and eco‐friendliness. However, the mutual challenges of cathode dissolution, electrolyte parasitic reactions, disordered zinc dendrite growth, and easily punctured separator have significantly impeded the widespread commercialization of aqueous zinc‐based batteries. Realizing high‐performance zinc‐based batteries becomes imperative yet remains extremely challenging. To address these concerns, great efforts have recently been made to design high‐performance zinc‐based batteries. Here the state‐of‐the‐art in organic materials is critically reviewed for aqueous zinc‐based batteries, covering main components of a battery. This review provides a comprehensive overview on the design strategies of organic materials for zinc‐based batteries, encompassing cathode, anode, electrolyte, and separator. Furthermore, the challenges and prospective research directions are also discussed to provide a guideline for further development of highly stable zinc‐based batteries.
A Physical Model of Nanotwin Unit and Orientation Organization for Designing Mechanical Performance: Cases of InSb, GaAs, ZnS
Authors: Lu Zhongtao , Huang Xiege , Zhang Xiaolian , Zhai Pengchen , Goddard William A. , Li Guodong
Published: October 2023

Functional unit and organization (FUO) paradigm starts with functional units and assembles these functional units into specific organizations to optimize material performance. An advantage of FUO paradigm is interpretation of physical essence of traditional structure–performance relationships. Experimental achievements based on FUO paradigm abound in recent years, demanding theoretical explanations for further quantitative material design. Following FUO paradigm, here a three‐step model (bond‐region‐structure) of nanotwin (NT) unit and orientation organization to optimize mechanical performance is established. First, anisotropic elasticities of representative bonds and assembled regional elastic constants are evaluated. Second, yield conditions of different regions, which are summarized as critical resolved shear stress (CRSS) criteria of NT structure, are quantified. Third, anisotropic yield strengths of NT structure from the regional elastic constants and CRSS criteria are derived. This FUO‐based model is implemented into InSb, GaAs, and ZnS, predicted elastic constants and yield strengths are validated with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The method is more efficient than MD with comparable accuracy, and is also flexible to combine with density function theory and experiment. This demonstration sets foundation of NT unit and orientation organization design for achieving optimum mechanical performance.
Beneath the Skin: Nanostructure in the Sub‐Oxide Region of Liquid Metal Nanodroplets
Authors: Vaillant Pierre H. A. , Krishnamurthi Vaishnavi , Parker Caiden J. , Kariuki Rashad , Russo Salvy P. , Christofferson Andrew J. , Daeneke Torben , Elbourne Aaron
Published: October 2023

Liquid metals (LMs) are emerging as unique fluids for a variety of applications, but their nanoscale solvation properties remain largely understudied. In this work, a combination of atomic force microscopy (AFM) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are used to investigate the structure of the interface between the bulk room temperature liquid metal (RTLM) and the LM oxide in nanodroplet systems of gallium, EGaIn (75.5% gallium, 24.5% indium), and Galinstan (68.5% gallium, 21.5% indium, 10% tin). Field's metal (51% indium, 32.5% bismuth, 16.5% tin) is also investigated, which melts at ≈62 °C, as a contrast to the other systems. AFM measurements reveal distinct sub‐oxide nanostructured layering in all three RTLM systems, and Field's metal above the melting point, to differing degrees. EGaIn and Galinstan show multiple penetration events between 20 and 30 nm, with smaller, less complex events in Ga. MD simulations suggest that this layering is a result of the near‐surface ordering of LM atoms beneath the oxide layer. Importantly, the atoms in this region do not behave as solids but are more ordered than in a pure disordered liquid system. The surface nanostructure elucidated here significantly expands the understanding of LM systems and their behavior at interfaces.
Enhancing the Selectivity and Transparency of the Electron Contact in Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells by Phosphorus Catalytic Doping
Authors: Duan Weiyuan , Mains Gilbert , Gebrewold Habtamu Tsegaye , Bittkau Karsten , Lambertz Andreas , Xu Binbin , Lauterbach Volker , Eberst Alexander , Nicholson Nathan , Korte Lars , Yaqin Muhammad Ainul , Zhang Kai , Yang Qing , Rau Uwe , Ding Kaining
Published: October 2023

An intrinsic hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H(i)) film and a doped silicon film are usually combined in the heterojunction contacts of silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells. In this work, a post‐doping process called catalytic doping (Cat‐doping) on a‐Si:H(i) is performed on the electron selective side of SHJ solar cells, which enables a device architecture that eliminates the additional deposition of the doped silicon layer. Thus, a single phosphorus Cat‐doping layer combines the functions of two other layers by enabling excellent interface passivation and high carrier selectivity. The overall thinner layer on the window side results in higher spectral response at short wavelengths, leading to an improved short‐circuit current density of 40.31 mA cm−2 and an efficiency of 23.65% (certified). The cell efficiency is currently limited by sputter damage from the subsequent transparent conductive oxide fabrication and low carrier activation in the a‐Si:H(i) with Cat‐doping. Numerical device simulations show that the a‐Si:H(i) with Cat‐doping can provide sufficient field effect passivation even at lower active carrier concentrations compared to the as‐deposited doped layer, due to the lower defect density.
NIR‐Actuated Targeted Janus Nanomotors Remodel Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment for Augmented Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyu , Ma Enhui , Zhang Yingying , Xing Yujuan , Xu Wenbei , Chen Liang , Zhou Hong , Zhang Xinran , Jiang Canran , Xu Kai , Wang Hong , Zheng Shaohui
Published: October 2023

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) always display immunosuppressive M2 phenotype in the tumor microenvironment to facilitate tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Ibrutinib (IBR), a novel irreversible Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, has been employed to repolarize the BTK‐overexpressed TAMs from M2 to M1 phenotype to remodel the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. However, the poor solubility of IBR extremely hinders its bioavailability, which results in low tumor accumulation and TAMs uptake in vivo. Herein, NIR laser‐actuated Janus nanomotors are proposed for the effective and deep delivery of IBR to TAMs in solid tumor for targeted immunotherapy. Under NIR irradiation, the Janus nanomotors exhibit efficient photothermal conversion to produce powerful propulsion via self‐thermophoresis with a speed of 12.15 µm s−1. Combined with the salic acid targeting and IBR loading, the nanomotors significantly boost their binding and uptake efficacy by M2‐like macrophages during the active motion, which highly facilitate the reprogramming of M2 to M1 macrophages in vitro. Furtherly, the autonomous motion also validly improves in vivo accumulation and penetration depth in tumors to alter the M1/M2 polarization balance and activate T cells. Overall, the synthesized IC@MSA JNMs would provide a promising strategy for the efficient delivery of immunological agents toward targeted cancer immunotherapy.
A Novel Endoplasmic Reticulum‐Targeted Metal–Organic Framework–Confined Ruthenium (Ru) Nanozyme Regulation of Oxidative Stress for Central Post‐Stroke Pain
Authors: Bai Qian , Han Yupeng , Khan Suliman , Wu Tingting , Yang Ying , Wang Yingying , Tang Hao , Li Qing , Jiang Wei
Published: October 2023

Central post‐stroke pain (CPSP) is a chronic neuropathic pain caused by cerebrovascular lesion or disfunction after stroke. Convincing evidence suggest that excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), generated matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) and neuroinflammation are largely involved in the development of pain. In this study, an effective strategy is reported for treating pain hypersensitivity using an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐targeted metal–organic framework (MOF)‐confined ruthenium (Ru) nanozyme. The Ru MOF is coated with a p‐dodecylbenzene sulfonamide (p‐DBSN) modified liposome with endoplasmic reticulum‐targeted function. The experimental results reveals that ROS, Emmprin, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9 are upregulated in the brain of CPSP mice, along with the elevated expression of inflammation markers such as TNF‐α and IL‐6. Compared to vehicle, one‐time intravenous administration of ER‐Ru MOF significantly reduces mechanical hypersensitivity after CPSP for three days. Overall, ER‐Ru MOF system can inhibit oxidative stress in the brain tissues of CPSP model, reduce MMPs expression, and suppress neuroinflammation response‐induced injury, resulting in satisfactory prevention and effective treatment of CPSP during a hemorrhagic stroke. The ER‐Ru MOF is expected to be useful for the treatment of neurological diseases associated with the vicious activation of ROS, based on the generality of the approach used in this study.
Revealing the Mutually Enhanced Mechanism of Necroptosis and Immunotherapy Induced by Defect Engineering and Piezoelectric Effect
Authors: Du Yaqian , Yang Jiani , He Fei , Zhao Xudong , Zhou Jialing , Zang Pengyu , Liu Changlin , Xie Ying , Zhang Yanqiao , Yang Piaoping
Published: October 2023

Owing to low immunogenicity‐induced immune escape and short‐term circulating immune responses, the efficiency of immunotherapy is unsatisfactory. Therefore, triggering immunogenic cell death and establishing a long‐term, mutually reinforced treatment modality are urgent challenges. In this study, ultrathin CaBi2Nb2O9 nanosheets with tunable oxygen vacancies (abbreviated as CBNO‐OV1) are prepared for synergistic necroptosis and immunotherapy. The optimized vacancy concentration significantly improves the piezoelectric effect under ultrasound irradiation, thereby considerably improving the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Density functional theory shows that oxygen vacancies can improve the efficiency of electron hole separation by suppressing their recombination, thus resulting in enhanced piezocatalytic activity. Moreover, the piezoelectric effect improves the permeability of tumor cell membranes, thus resulting in Ca2+ influx. Additionally, CBNO‐OV1 also releases a portion of Ca2+, which induces necroptosis assisted by explosive ROS. Ribonucleic acid transcription tests suggest the mechanisms associated with immune response activation and necroptosis. More importantly, necroptosis can trigger a significant immune response in vivo, thus activating macrophage M1 polarization through the NF‐kappa B pathway and promoting T‐cell differentiation.Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α differentiated from macrophages conversely promotes necroptosis, thus realizing a mutually enhanced effect. This study demonstrates the feasibility of mutually reinforced necroptosis and immunotherapy for amplifying tumor efficacy.
Ultrahigh Capacity from Complexation‐Enabled Aluminum‐Ion Batteries with C70 as the Cathode
Authors: Huang Chenli , Yang Ying , Li Mengyang , Qi Xiaoqun , Pan Changwang , Guo Kun , Bao Lipiao , Lu Xing
Published: October 2023

Restricted by the available energy storage modes, currently rechargeable aluminum‐ion batteries (RABs) can only provide a very limited experimental capacity, regardless of the very high gravimetric capacity of Al (2980 mAh g−1). Here, a novel complexation mechanism is reported for energy storage in RABs by utilizing 0D fullerene C70 as the cathode. This mechanism enables remarkable discharge voltage (≈1.65 V) and especially a record‐high reversible specific capacity (750 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1) of RABs. By means of in situ Raman monitoring, mass spectrometry, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, it is found that this elevated capacity is attributed to the direct complexation of one C70 molecule with 23.5 (super)halogen moieties (superhalogen AlCl4 and/or halogen Cl) in average, forming (super)halogenated C70·(AlCl4)mCln‐m complexes. Upon discharging, decomplexation of C70·(AlCl4)mCln‐m releases AlCl4−/Cl− ions while preserving the intact fullerene cage. This work provides a new route to realize high‐capacity and long‐life batteries following the complexation mechanism.
Tethered Small‐Molecule Acceptor Refines Hierarchical Morphology in Ternary Polymer Solar Cells: Enhanced Stability and 19% Efficiency
Authors: Zhang Ming , Chang Bowen , Zhang Rui , Li Shangyu , Liu Xinpeng , Zeng Liang , Chen Qi , Wang Li , Yang Liangrong , Wang Haiqiao , Liu Jiangang , Gao Feng , Zhang Zhi‐Guo
Published: October 2023

Polymer solar cells (PSCs) are promising for efficient solar energy conversion, but achieving high efficiency and device longevity within a bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) structure remains a challenge. Traditional small‐molecule acceptors (SMAs) in the BHJ blend show thermodynamic instability affecting the morphology. In contrast, tethered SMAs exhibit higher glass transition temperatures, mitigating these concerns. Yet, they might not integrate well with polymer donors, causing pronounced phase separation and overpurification of mixed domains. Herein, a novel ternary device is introduced that uses DY‐P2EH, a tethered dimeric SMA with conjugated side‐chains as host acceptor, and BTP‐ec9, a monomeric SMA as secondary acceptor, which respectively possess hypomiscibility and hypermiscibility with the polymer donor PM6. This unique combination affords a parallel‐connected ternary BHJ blend, leading to a hierarchical and stable morphology. The ternary device achieves a remarkable fill factor of 80.61% and an impressive power conversion efficiency of 19.09%. Furthermore, the ternary device exhibits exceptional stability, retaining over 85% of its initial efficiency even after enduring 1100 h of thermal stress at 85 °C. These findings highlight the potential advantage of tethered SMAs in the design of ternary devices with a refined hierarchical structure for more efficient and durable solar energy conversion technologies.
Process Optimization for Syngas Production from the Dry Reforming of Methane over 5Ni+3Sr/10Zr+Al Catalyst Using Multiple Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Al‐Fatesh Ahmed S. , El‐Salamony Radwa A. , Roushdy Mai H. , Alwan Saba M. , Osman Ahmed I. , Alfatesh Sadeq A. , Ahmed Hamid , Fakeeha Anis H. , Ibrahim Ahmed A.
Published: October 2023

5Ni+3Sr/10Zr+Al catalyst is synthesized using the impregnation method, characterized, and tested for dry reforming of methane. The influence of reaction temperature, feed ratio (CO2/CH4), and gas hour space velocity are examined using multiple response surface methodology through three factors in, a four‐level central composite design. Second and higher‐order regression models are applied to evaluate the interaction between the process parameters and responses. The results indicate that the reaction temperature is the most influential followed by the space velocity, while the feed ratio has a weak effect. The optimum values that maximize each of the response variables are found to be the reaction temperature at 746 °C, the space velocity of 12 000 ccg−1h−1, and the feed ratio of 0.958. Under these conditions, the predicted CH4 and CO2 conversions are 86.83% and 92.27%, respectively. While the H2/CO ratio is 1.02. On the other hand, the experimental results match the predicted ones when the optimum predicted operating conditions are used for the process. A weight loss of <16% is obtained on the spent catalyst after 86 h on stream. This is attributed to the highly basic and oxidative nature of the ZrO2 co‐supported catalyst and indicates the suitability of the developed catalyst.
Advances in Skeletal Muscle Engineering in Biomedical Research
Authors: Zhao Mengqian , Liu Haitao , Zhang Xu , Qin Jianhua
Published: October 2023

Skeletal muscle contributes significantly to human health, which is closely relevant to human locomotion, energy metabolism, immune regulation, and aging. Skeletal muscle holds the potential to recover its healthy condition via self‐repairing after minor damage. However, the capacity of sarcous self‐repair becomes incompetent following massive trauma or some myopathy, which raises a huge demand for skeletal muscle regeneration. Skeletal muscle engineering aims to rebuild muscle tissues in vitro to repair muscle injuries, develop pathological models, advance myopathy‐related research, and explore myopathy‐related medications. This review summarizes the advances in skeletal muscle engineering, including the cell resources that can be used in muscle regeneration, the recent progress of rebuilding methods for skeletal muscle engineering, as well as the biomedical applications of engineered skeletal muscle for tissue repair, drug testing, disease modeling, and soft robots. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives are discussed on improving skeletal muscle engineering by integrating multidisciplinary approaches, thus accelerating the technological innovation and translational application of this area.
Photoinduced Polymorphism of Fluorescent Organic Molecules in Solid State
Authors: Zhu Guanqun , Liu Zhiyang , Bisoyi Hari Krishna , Qi Qi , Liu Xiaogang , Li Quan
Published: October 2023

A new organic molecule is found to be able to form different fluorescent aggregation states in both single crystals and powders. When irradiated with ultraviolet light, single crystals and powders exhibit an in situ change in the fluorescence color from blue to green and then to chartreuse without changing the chemical groups. This stems from photoinduced changes in the molecular conformation and packing in the solid state. Two or three fluorescence colors can be displayed simultaneously in a single organic crystal by controlling the irradiation time. Under irradiation with intense ultraviolet light, deformations, movements and in situ welding of crystals can be achieved by utilizing the photothermal effect. This work demonstrates a new strategy for inducing different behaviors of organic solid state with stimulation by single‐wavelength light.
2D Heterostructures Induced Charge Transfer and Trapping for Hybrid Optically and Electrically Controllable Nonvolatile Memory
Authors: Li Sin‐En , Lu Guan‐Zhang , Shen Ji‐Lin , Wu Meng‐Jer , Chen Yu‐Ting , Mustaqeem Mujahid , Chen Yang‐Fang
Published: October 2023

Nonvolatile memory is an indispensable component of electronic devices. However, the current technology makes it difficult to satisfy the emerging big data demand. To circumvent the existing problems, herein, a first attempt is made to achieve multifunctional nonvolatile memory based on all 2D heterostructures, consisting of histidine‐doped molybdenum disulfide quantum disks mixed with graphene oxide and a graphene macroscopic heterojunction. The designed device possesses intriguing hybrid electrically and optically controllable nonvolatile memory functionalities. By harnessing the unique properties of these materials, memory devices demonstrate long‐term stability and nonvolatile characteristics under both optical and electrical control signals. These devices possess outstanding features, such as multiple read‐write cycles, multi levels, and fast switching speeds, overcoming the limitations of traditional components. To explore the underlying physical mechanism, the Fermi level of graphene is measured and it is confirmed that the charge transfer and trapping across the heterojunctions are the major factors responsible for the observed behavior. This study demonstrates that 2D heterostructures for hybrid optically and electrically controllable nonvolatile memory pave an alternative route for the next‐generation information technology.
Aza[7]helicene Functionalized Triphenylmethyl Radicals with Circularly Polarized Doublet Emission
Authors: Gross Markus , Zhang Fangyuan , Arnold Mona E. , Ravat Prince , Kuehne Alexander J. C.
Published: October 2023

Synthesis and characterization of configurationally stable chiral aza[7]helicene‐functionalized trityl radicals are reported. To overcome the problem of incomplete radical formation after coupling the trityl radical to the chiral aza[7]helicenes in a nucleophilic aromatic substitution, this study instead employs Pd‐catalyzed C‐N cross‐coupling. In contrast to the conventional approach, the open‐shell character is retained allowing quantitative yield of the radical. The obtained dinaphthocarbazole and diphenanthrocarbazol‐functionalized tris(trichlorophenyl)methyl (TTM) radicals can be separated into the respective enantiomers. The resulting chiral radicals exhibit photoluminescence quantum yields as high as 43% and circularly polarized luminescence. Time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) calculations support the experimental findings. The newly reported aza[7]helicene‐based radicals hold promise for advanced optoelectronic as well as quantum technological applications.
Tapping the Light Emitting Potential of Chalcogenide Perovskite SrHfS3 via Eu2+ Doping
Authors: Liang Yurun , Li Jiang , Chen Zhipeng , Li Gaoqiang , Li Mengyao , Jia Mochen , Chen Xu , Li Xinjian , Han Yanbing , Shi Zhifeng
Published: October 2023

Chalcogenide perovskites are an emerging family of perovskite materials, which possess excellent optoelectronic properties comparable with halide perovskites, avoiding the drawbacks of toxicity and poor stability. Due to the superiorities of strong light absorption, direct bandgaps, excellent carrier transport abilities, high defect tolerance, robust stability, and non‐toxicity, chalcogenide perovskites have been extensively studied as photovoltaic materials. However, the light emitting potential of chalcogenide perovskites is ignored or less explored. In this work, an Eu2+ doping strategy is proposed to activate the light emitting abilities of chalcogenide perovskite. The synthesized SrHfS3:Eu2+ powder exhibits intense red emission of Eu2+ through the relaxation of 4f65d1 to 4f75d0. The strong interband absorption of SrHfS3, as a distinct character of chalcogenide perovskite, harvests the optical energy and funnels it to the luminescent center Eu2+. Besides, SrHfS3:Eu2+ is characterized by superior semiconducting properties, suggesting its strong potential as suitable emitters in light‐emitting diodes. Moreover, the obtained SrHfS3:Eu2+ powder and its luminescence properties remain stable under ultraviolet irradiation, water, and high temperature testing. The above observations open a new frontier for exploring luminescent chalcogenide perovskites, highlighting their great potential in lighting and displays, rather than being limited to photovoltaic devices.
Research Progress on Naphthalimide Fluorescent Probes
Authors: Xu Haiyan , Xiao Yinling , Liu Ying‐Guo , Sun Wen
Published: October 2023

Naphthalimide derivatives are attracting increasing attention as fluorescent probes due to their excellent modifiability and photophysical properties. Their large, rigid coplanar structures and conjugated systems enable easy generation of fluorescence. The imide units and bromonaphthalene functionality offer facile and concise modification pathways in preparing amenable probes for different metal cations, anions, small molecules, and organelles. Therefore, naphthalimide probes have great potential for application in research fields, such as analytical chemistry, cell biology, and clinical diagnosis.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Mediated Oxidative Stress in Bone Tissues and Novel Challenges for Biomaterials
Authors: Wang Ruideng , Su Shilong , Chen Zhengyang , Zhou Fang
Published: October 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease which can adversely affect the skeletal system, causing detrimental bone effects such as bone quality deterioration, loss of bone strength, increased fracture risk, and impaired bone healing. One of the major mechanisms is the increase in T2DM‐induced oxidative stress which results in an imbalance in bone remodeling and affects bone metabolism and bone regeneration. Recently, ROS‐scavenging biomaterials have been identified as a type of promising therapeutic substance to alleviate oxidative stress in tissue microenvironment. The aim of this review is to elaborate T2DM mediated oxidative stress in bone tissues and current application of ROS‐scavenging biomaterials in bone tissue engineering which provides a novel insight into biomaterials in diabetic bone tissue.
A Sustainable Method for Removal of the Full Range of Liquid and Solid Hydrocarbons from Water Including Up‐ and Recycling
Authors: Gaß Henrik , Sarcletti Marco , Müller Lukas , Hübner Sabine , Yokosawa Tadahiro , Park Hyoungwon , Przybilla Thomas , Spiecker Erdmann , Halik Marcus
Published: October 2023

Beyond their CO2 emittance when burned as fuels, hydrocarbons (HCs) serve as omnipresent raw materials and commodities. No matter if as liquid oil spills or the endless amounts of plastic roaming the oceans, HCs behave as persistent pollutants with water as main carrier to distribute. Even if their general chemical structure [‐(CH2)n‐] is quite simple, the endless range of n leads to contaminations of different appearances and properties. A water remediation method based on superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) modified with self‐assembled monolayers of alkyl phosphonic acid derivatives is presented. These molecules enable the SPIONs to non‐covalently bind HCs, independently from the molecular weight, size and morphology. The attractive interaction is mainly based on hydrophobic and Coulomb interaction, which allows recycling of the SPIONs. The superparamagnetic core allows a simple magnetic collection and separation from the water phase which makes it a promising addition to wastewater treatment. Agglomerates of collected plastic “waste” even exhibit superior adsorption properties for crude oil, another hydrocarbon waste which gives these collected wastes a second life. This upcycling approach combined with presented recycling methods enables a complete recycling loop.
A Supertough and Highly‐Conductive Nano‐Dipole Doped Composite Polymer Electrolyte with Hybrid Li+‐Solvation Microenvironment for Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Lv Shanshan , He Xuewei , Ji Zhongfeng , Yang Sifan , Feng Lanxiang , Fu Xuewei , Yang Wei , Wang Yu
Published: October 2023

Achieving solid polymer electrolytes with ceramic‐like fast single‐ion conduction behavior, separator‐required mechanical properties, and good lithium‐dendrite suppression capability is essential but extremely challenging for the practical success of solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries. The key to overcome this long‐standing bottleneck is to rationally design the Li+‐transport microenvironment inside the polymeric ion‐conductors. Herein, the concept of a nano‐dipole doped composite polymer electrolyte (NDCPE) is proposed using surface‐charged halloysite nanotubes (d‐HNTs) as the dopant to achieve a Li+‐transport‐friendly microenvironment in poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) based quasi‐solid electrolytes. Results show that the d‐HNTs doping can immobilize the anions and help dissociate the lithium salt, which leads to an advanced dynamic Li+‐interface yielding both a high Li+‐transference number (0.75 ± 0.04) and ionic conductivity (0.29 ± 0.04 mS cm−1 @R.T.). Moreover, compared with the commercial separator, the NDCPE thin‐film shows similar toughness, mechanical strength, and puncture resistance, but much superior capability for stabilizing the lithium‐metal anode. To understand the possible doping mechanism, a hybrid Li+‐solvation model combining the surface charges of the nanofiller, absorbed solvent molecules, and absorbed polymer chain unit is proposed and discussed for guiding the future studies on advanced hybrid solid polymer electrolytes.
Food retailing in developing economies: Review of empirical insights and new directions
Authors: Richards Timothy J. , Pasirayi Simba
Published: October 2023

Food retailing in developing economies has undergone significant transformations over the past three decades. Progressing in three waves across regions like Latin America, Asia, Africa, and beyond, food retailers have transitioned from traditional open markets to modern supermarkets akin to those in more developed economies. In this article, we provide an overview of the structure of food retailing in developing economies and examine the empirical literature that delves into the reasons behind the evolution of retailers in developing countries worldwide, as well as their impact on suppliers and consumers. We propose avenues for future research, building upon an empirical framework that recognizes the consumer‐driven nature of retail evolution and how the structure of retailing develops as an equilibrium outcome within a dynamic, imperfectly competitive environment. In conclusion, we identify significant gaps in the existing empirical literature and shed light on emerging questions that are likely to gain importance in the future. [EconLit Citations: D43, L13, M31].
Agricultural specialization activates the industry chain: Implications for rural entrepreneurship in China
Authors: Ji Xing , Chen Jia , Zhang Hongxiao
Published: October 2023

As one of the means of specialization, agricultural outsourcing is regarded as a breakthrough point for agricultural efficiency improvement and rural economic growth by many developing countries. From the perspective of the interest linkage across the entire agricultural industry chain, the potential entrepreneurial effects of agricultural outsourcing have rarely been discussed. The study innovatively treats a Chinese policy as a quasi‐natural experiment, uses cutting‐edge econometric methods to make rigorous causal inferences, and addresses the difficulty of quantifying agricultural outsourcing. We find that agricultural outsourcing significantly increases rural entrepreneurship activity, with an increase of 9.1% of the rural population working for rural private enterprises and rural self‐employed businesses. From the perspective of heterogeneity, the entrepreneurial effect of agricultural outsourcing is more impressive in nonmajor grain‐producing areas. In addition, agricultural outsourcing mainly promotes opportunistic entrepreneurship. Influencing mechanisms include industrial chain extension, off‐farm employment and credit access. Accordingly, we suggest that policymakers take agricultural outsourcing as a starting point to promote rural innovation and entrepreneurship to complete industrial upgrading and transformation. [EconLit Citations: D13, L26, Q16].
A practically implementable reinforcement learning‐based process controller design
Authors: Hassanpour Hesam , Wang Xiaonian , Corbett Brandon , Mhaskar Prashant
Published: October 2023

The present article enables reinforcement learning (RL)‐based controllers for process control applications. Existing instances of RL‐based solutions have significant challenges for online implementation since the training process of an RL agent (controller) presently requires practically impossible number of online interactions between the agent and the environment (process). To address this challenge, we propose an implementable model‐free RL method developed by leveraging industrially implemented model predictive control (MPC) calculations (often designed using a simple linear model identified via step tests). In the first step, MPC calculations are used to pretrain an RL agent that can mimic the MPC performance. Specifically, the MPC calculations are used to pretrain the actor, and the objective function is used to pretrain the critic(s). The pretrained RL agent is then employed within a model‐free RL framework to control the process in a way that initially imitates MPC behavior (thus not compromising process performance and safety), but also continuously learns and improve its performance over the nominal linear MPC. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is illustrated through simulations on a chemical reactor example.
Intensification of diethyl methylphosphite synthesis based on kinetics study and CFD modeling
Authors: Li Banghao , Lan Xiaocheng , Wang Tiefeng
Published: October 2023

A “pre‐dissolving ammonia” intensification method for continuous production of diethyl methylphosphite (DEMP) was proposed based on kinetics study of methyl dichlorophosphine (MDP) substitution and DEMP acidolysis. The method was verified in a continuous synthesis system consisting of a small jet reactor. Compared with the selectivity of ~80% obtained in a stirred flask, the selectivity reached 98% by the intensification method. Eliminating the resistance of gas–liquid mass transfer and enhancement of mixing enabled rapid removal of the produced HCl, thus, the DEMP selectivity was greatly increased. The high DEMP selectivity obtained was insensitive to reaction temperature, reactor size and ammonia to chlorine ratio in the studied range. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was proposed for this liquid turbulent reactive flow. Numerical simulations revealed that HCl could be removed rapidly by the neutralization reaction, which was limited by micromixing efficiency. The CFD simulation further indicates the feasibility of “pre‐dissolving ammonia” for industrial production.
Striving for safety, impact, and equity: A critical consideration of AJCP publications on formal youth mentoring programs
Authors: Hagler Matthew A. , Jones Kristian V. , Anderson Amy J. , McQuillin Samuel D. , Weiler Lindsey M. , Sánchez Bernadette
Published: October 2023

In this virtual special issue (VSI) we curate and reflect upon 22 articles on formal youth mentoring previously published in the American Journal of Community Psychology (AJCP). First, we provide historical context and highlight AJCP's 2002 special issue on mentoring, which played an important role in establishing youth mentoring as a vibrant area of research. Next, we review and discuss findings from subsequent AJCP studies in three interrelated lines of inquiry: (1) the importance of facilitating high‐quality mentoring relationships; (2) associations among youth's presenting needs, relationship quality, and outcomes; and (3) program practices leading to stronger, more impactful relationships. Throughout, we highlight and expand upon critical commentary from AJCP contributors, calling on the field to move away from paternalistic models that overly localize risk with youth and families without interrogating structural oppression. Our recommendations include: (1) centering critical consciousness, racial equity, and social justice in program curricula and mentor trainings; (2) respectfully engaging grassroots programs developed for and by communities of color that are underrepresented in research; (3) making meaningful efforts to recruit mentors from marginalized communities and removing barriers to their participation; and (4) examining youth's racial, ethnic, and other areas of identity development processes during mentoring.
Dried blood spot based biomarkers in the Health and Retirement Study: 2006 to 2016
Authors: Kim Jung Ki , Faul Jessica , Weir David R. , Crimmins Eileen M.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The Health and Retirement Study (HRS) has collected biomarker data over multiple waves. Such data can help improve our understanding of health changes in individuals and the causal pathways related to health. There are, however, technical challenges to using the HRS dried blood spots (DBS) biomarker data due to changes over time in assay protocols, platforms, and laboratories. We provide technical and summary information on biological indicators collected as part of the HRS from 2006 to 2016 that should be helpful to users of the data.

Methods

We describe the opportunities and challenges provided by the HRS DBS data as well as insights provided by the data. The HRS collected DBS from its nationally representative sample of respondents 51 years of age or older from 2006 to 2016. DBS‐based biomarkers were collected from half the sample in 2006, 2010, and 2014, and from the other half of the sample in 2008, 2012, and 2016. These DBS specimens were used to assay total and HDL cholesterol, glycosylated hemoglobin, C‐reactive protein, and cystatin C from 2006 to 2016, and Interleukin 6 was added in 2014/2016. Samples included approximately 6000 individuals at each wave, and completion rates ranged from 81% to 90%. HRS transformed DBS values into venous blood equivalents to make them more comparable to those of the whole blood‐based assays collected in most other studies and to facilitate longitudinal analysis.

Results

Distribution of changes over time by age shows that total cholesterol levels decreased for each age, while HbA1c levels increased. Cystatin C shows a clear age gradient, but a number of other markers do not. Non‐Hispanic Black persons and Hispanic respondents have a higher incidence of risk levels of each biomarker except for CRP among non‐Hispanic Black older persons.

Conclusion

These public‐use DBS data provide analysis opportunities that can be used to improve our understanding of health change with age in both populations and among individuals.
Contact with caregivers is associated with composition of the infant gastrointestinal microbiome in the first 6 months of life
Authors: Wiley Kyle S. , Gregg Andrew M. , Fox Molly M. , Lagishetty Venu , Sandman Curt A. , Jacobs Jonathan P. , Glynn Laura M.
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Little is known about how physical contact at birth and early caregiving environments influence the colonization of the infant gastrointestinal microbiome. We investigated how infant contact with caregivers at birth and within the first 2 weeks of life relates to the composition of the gastrointestinal microbiome in a sample of U.S. infants (n = 60).

Methods

Skin‐to‐skin and physical contact with caregivers at birth and early caregiving environments were surveyed at 2 weeks postpartum. Stool samples were collected from infants at 2 weeks, 2, 6, and 12 months of age and underwent 16S rRNA sequencing as a proxy for the gastrointestinal microbiome. Associations between early caregiving environments and alpha and beta diversity, and differential abundance of bacteria at the genus level were assessed using PERMANOVA, and negative binomial mixed models in DEseq2.

Results

Time in physical contact with caregivers explained 10% of variation in beta diversity at 2 weeks' age. The number of caregivers in the first few weeks of life explained 9% of variation in beta diversity at 2 weeks and the number of individuals in physical contact at birth explained 11% of variation in beta diversity at 6 months. Skin‐to‐skin contact on the day of birth was positively associated with the abundance of eight genera. Infants held for by more individuals had greater abundance of eight genera.

Discussion

Results reveal a potential mechanism (skin‐to‐skin and physical contact) by which caregivers influence the infant gastrointestinal microbiome. Our findings contribute to work exploring the social transmission of microbes.
Chinese adaptation and validation of the chronic rhinosinusitis‐patient‐reported outcome: Assessment of health‐related quality‐of‐life
Authors: Chen Jiani , Hu Li , Zhang Chen , Shi Le , Zhang Qianqian , Zhou Yumin , Cheng Fuying , Gao Yingqi , Li Houyong , Wang Dehui , Wang Huan , Sun Xicai
Published: October 2023

Background

The chronic rhinosinusitis patient‐reported outcome (CRS‐PRO) is a recently published disease‐specific questionnaire designed for CRS patients, with fewer entries and ease of completion. This study aimed to translate the CRS‐PRO questionnaire into Chinese and assess its reliability, validity, and responsiveness to provide Chinese patients with a more concise and efficient subjective assessment instrument.

Methods

The Chinese version of the CRS‐PRO was created through forward‐backward translations and cultural adaptation. Here, 168 CRS patients (118 patients CRS with nasal polyps [CRSwNP] and 50 patients with CRS without nasal polyps [CRSsNP]) and 43 healthy individuals were enrolled. All participants completed the CRS‐PRO, 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22), and EuroQol five dimensions questionnaire (EQ‐5D) questionnaires preoperatively as well as 3 and 6 months after surgery.

Results

The Chinese version of the CRS‐PRO demonstrated good internal consistency, with a Cronbach's α of 0.813. It also exhibited a higher criterion validity (r = 0.65, p < 0.05) than the SNOT‐22. A moderate association was found between the CRS‐PRO and objective indicators such as the Lund–Mackay and endoscopic scores. Furthermore, the CRS‐PRO, like the SNOT‐22, could clearly distinguish CRS patients from healthy subjects (p < 0.01), as well as between the CRSwNP and CRSsNP subtypes (p < 0.01). Additionally, changes in the CRS‐PRO exhibited a larger effect size compared to changes in the SNOT‐22 (Cohen's d = 1.05 and 0.93 vs. 0.71 and 0.90 for 3 and 6 months, respectively, all p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The Chinese version of the CRS‐PRO is a concise, reliable, and responsive instrument that can be utilized as a novel subjective evaluation tool for future clinical practice.
Race, community disadvantage, and cognitive decline: Findings from KHANDLE and STAR
Authors: Peterson Rachel L. , Pejak Rebecca , George Kristen M. , Gilsanz Paola , Ko Michelle , Meyer Oanh L. , Mayeda Elizabeth Rose , Kind Amy , Whitmer Rachel A.
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION

Community disadvantage is associated with late‐life cognition. Few studies examine its contribution to racial disparities in cognition/cognitive change.

METHODS

Inverse probability weighted models estimated expected mean differences in cognition/cognitive change attributed to residing in less advantaged communities, defined as cohort top quintile of Area Deprivation Indices (ADI): childhood 66–100; adulthood ADI 5‐99). Interactions by race tested.

RESULTS

More Black participants resided in less advantaged communities. Semantic memory would be lower if all participants had resided in less advantaged childhood (b = ‐0.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] = ‐0.30, ‐0.03) or adulthood (b = ‐0.14, 95% CI = ‐0.22, ‐0.04) communities. Race interactions indicated that, among Black participants, less advantaged childhood communities were associated with higher verbal episodic memory (interaction p‐value = 0.007) and less advantaged adulthood communities were associated with lower semantic memory (interaction p‐value = 0.002).

DISCUSSION

Examining racial differences in levels of community advantage and late‐life cognitive decline is a critical step toward unpacking community effects on cognitive disparities.