bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influences of oxygen impurity contained in nitrogen gas on the reactions of chromium with nitrogen
Authors: Ho Yung-Shou , Huang Fong-Shung , Lu Fu-Hsing
Published: October 2005

In this research, the influences of the oxygen impurity contained in the commercially available nitrogen gas on the reactions of chromium pellets with nitrogen were investigated in the temperature range 600–1350 °C. A small amount of oxygen competed with the majority N2 to react with chromium in the annealing process. Analyzing the in situ oxygen partial pressure changes during annealing proved that the dissolution of oxygen in Cr and/or resultant CrxN (CrN or Cr2N) was exothermic and the solubility decreased with increasing temperature. It was found that the oxygen partial pressure decreased drastically to about 10−22 atm when specimens were annealed at 600 °C compared to a mere 10−5 atm for a blank test, while its value increased with temperature. The oxidation involved simultaneous dissolution of oxygen in specimens and formation of oxide scale. Moreover, comparing the aforementioned results with those obtained from additional annealing experiments preformed in argon gas showed that the formation of Cr2O3 might stem mainly from oxidation of the resultant nitrides instead of the metallic chromium.
Solid-state synthesis of new glassy Co65Ti20W15 alloy powders and subsequent densification into a fully dense bulk glass
Authors: El-Eskandarany M. Sherif , Omori M. , Inoue A.
Published: October 2005

The mechanical alloying method was used to synthesize a single glassy phase of Co65Ti20W15 alloy powders, using a high-energy ball mill. The glass transition temperature of the end-product, which was obtained after 173 ks of milling time, lies at 786 K, whereas the crystallization takes place at 878 K through a single sharp exothermic peak with an enthalpy change of crystallization of −4.37 kJ/mol. The reduced glass transition temperature was found to be 0.51. This glassy alloy powders exhibit a very large supercooled liquid region (92 K) for a ternary metallic system. The spark plasma sintering method was used to consolidate the glassy powders under an argon gas atmosphere at 843 K with a pressure of 19.6–38.2 MPa. The sample that was consolidated within 180 s maintains its chemically homogeneous glassy structure with a relative density of above 99.6%. Neither the supercooled liquid region nor crystallization temperature was affected by such a rapid consolidation procedure. Thus, the thermal stability of the bulk glassy sample is almost identical with the original glassy powders. The Vickers microhardness of the bulk glassy Co65Ti20W15 reveals high values, ranging between 8.69 and 8.83 GPa. The fabricated bulk glassy alloy shows high compressive strength of 2.44 GPa with a Young’s modulus of 176.81 GPa. Neither yielding stress, nor plastic strain could be detected for this glassy alloy, which its elastic strain is 1.33%.
Preparation of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Solids and Their Mechanical Properties
Authors: Yamamoto Go , Sato Yoshinori , Takahashi Toru , Omori Mamoru , Hashida Toshiyuki , Okubo Akira , Watanabe Sadao , Tohji Kazuyuki
Published: October 2005

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were successfully solidified without any additives by hot-pressing and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The elastic modulus and fracture strength of the SWCNT solid prepared by the SPS method were about three and two times higher than that of the hot-pressed SWCNT solid prepared under the same processing condition. The enhancement of the mechanical properties of the SPS specimen may be due to the formation of comparatively stronger bond between SWCNTs, which is possibly brought about by the spark plasma generated in the SPS process.
Nickel silicon thin film as barrier in under-bump-metallization by magnetronsputtering deposition for Pb-free chip packaging
Authors: Li Y. , Chen J. , Lazik C. , Wang P. , Yang L. , Yu J. , Sun T. , Ko E.
Published: October 2005

In the search for a Pb-free compatible under-bump-metallization (UBM) barrier material, magnetron sputtering of a nonmagnetic nickel silicon alloy (NiSi) target was used to deposit a low-stress polycrystalline NiSi thin film. In the reaction with SnAg3.0Cu0.5 solder, NiSi was found to have greatly reduced reaction and intermetallics (IMC) formation rates compared with sputtered NiV. A continuous layer of IMCs in NiSi UBM-solder joint remains stable after 10 reflows and 1000 h thermal aging tests, resulting in preferred bulk solder failure mode in ball shearing/pull testing. Our results demonstrate that NiSi is a highly promising thin film barrier material suitable for Pb-free solder bumping.
Engineered metal–oxide–metal heterojunction nanowires
Authors: Tresback Jason S. , Vasiliev Alexander L. , Padture Nitin P.
Published: October 2005

Using a unique combination of template-based synthesis methods involving anodization, electroplating, and selective oxidation, we have synthesized engineered metal–oxide–metal (MOM) heterojunction nanowires in the Au–SnO2–Au and Au–NiO–Au systems for possible use in nanoelectronics. The template-based synthesis method used here is generic, and it has the potential to provide control over the structure and characteristics of the resulting MOM nanowires. By virtue of their heterojunction structure, MOM nanowires have the potential to overcome some of the drawbacks associated with all-oxide nanowire building blocks, and they present a rare opportunity to measure directly fundamental functional properties of nanoscale oxides.
Measurement of electromigration parameters of lead-free SnAg3.5 solder using U-groove lines
Authors: Hsu Ying-Chao , Chen De-Chung , Liu P.C. , Chen Chih
Published: October 2005

Measurement of electromigration parameters in the lead-free solder SnAg3.5 was carried out by utilizing U-groove solder lines and atomic force microscopy in the temperature range of 100–150 °C. The drift velocity was measured, and the threshold current densities of the SnAg3.5 solder were estimated to be 4.4 × 104A/cm2at 100 °C, 3.3 × 104A/cm2at 125 °C, and 5.7 × 103A/cm2at 150 °C. These values represent the maximum current densities that the SnAg3.5 solder can carry without electromigration damage at the three stressing temperatures. The critical products for the SnAg3.5 solder were estimated to be 462 A/cm at 100 °C, 346 A/cm at 125 °C, and 60 A/cm at 150 °C. In addition, the electromigration activation energy was determined to be 0.55 eV in the temperature range of 100–150 °C. These values are very fundamental for current carrying capability and mean-time-to-failure measurement for solder bumps. This technique enables the direct measurement of electromigration parameters of solder materials.
Numerical analysis for co-condensation processes in silicide nanoparticle synthesis using induction thermal plasmas at atmospheric pressure conditions
Authors: Shigeta Masaya , Watanabe Takayuki
Published: October 2005

Numerical analysis is conducted to clarify the formation mechanisms of silicide nanoparticles synthesized in an induction thermal plasma maintained at atmospheric pressure. The induction thermal plasma is analyzed by an electromagnetic fluid dynamics approach, in addition to a multi-component co-condensation model, proposed for the silicide nanoparticle synthesis. In the Cr–Si and Co–Si systems, silicon vapor is consumed by homogeneous nucleation and heterogeneous condensation processes; subsequently, metal vapor condenses heterogeneously onto liquid silicon particles. The Mo–Si system shows the opposite tendency. In the Ti–Si system, vapors of silicon and titanium condense simultaneously on the silicon nuclei. Each system produces nanoparticle diameters of around 10 nm, and the required disilicides, with the stoichiometric composition, are obtained. Only the Ti–Si system has a narrow range of silicon content. The numerical analysis results agree with the experimental findings. Finally, the correlation chart, predicting the saturation vapor pressure ratios and the resulting silicon contents, is presented for estimation of nanoparticle compositions produced in the co-condensation processes.
Effect of microstructural evolution on electrical property of the Sn–Ag–Cu solder balls joined with Sn–Zn–Bi paste
Authors: Shih Po-Cheng , Lin Kwang-Lung
Published: October 2005

Sn–8Zn–3Bi solder paste and Sn–3.2Ag–0.5Cu solder balls were reflowed simultaneously on Cu/Ni/Au metallized ball grid array (BGA) substrates. The correlation between microstructural evolution and the electrical resistance of the joints under various testing conditions of reflow cycles and heat treatment was investigated. The electrical resistance of the Sn–Ag–Cu joints without Sn–Zn–Bi was also conducted for comparison. The average resistance values of Sn–Ag–Cu and Sn–Ag–Cu/Sn–Zn–Bi samples changed, respectively, from 7.1 (single reflow) to 7.3 (10 cycles) mΩ and from 7.2 (single reflow) to 7.6 (10 cycles) mΩ. Furthermore, the average resistance values of Sn–Ag–Cu and Sn–Ag–Cu/Sn–Zn–Bi samples changed, respectively, from 7.1 (aging 0 h) to 7.8 (aging 1000 h) mΩ and from 7.2 (aging 0 h) to 7.9 (aging 1000 h) mΩ. It was also noticeable that the average resistance values of Sn–Ag–Cu/Sn–Zn–Bi samples were higher than those of Sn–Ag–Cu samples in each specified testing condition. The possible reasons for the greater resistance exhibited by the Sn–Zn–Bi incorporated joints were discussed.
Non-equilibrium defects in aluminum-doped zinc oxide thin films grown with a pulsed laser deposition method
Authors: Ryoken Haruki , Sakaguchi Isao , Ohashi Naoki , Sekiguchi Takashi , Hishita Shunichi , Haneda Hajime
Published: October 2005

Zinc oxide (ZnO) films doped with aluminum (Al) were deposited with a pulsed laser deposition technique to characterize the charge compensation phenomena in ZnO. In particular, oxygen radical (O*) irradiation during film deposition was used to modify the oxygen stoichiometry. Irradiation with O* decreased electron concentration in Al-doped ZnO. The lattice parameter of the resultant films also varied with the growth conditions. However, no obvious correlation between electron concentration and lattice parameter was found. The self-diffusion coefficients indicated the presence of non-equilibrium defects. The properties of the films are discussed from the viewpoint of non-equilibrium compensated defects detected in the diffusion measurements.
Nanoindentation of polydimethylsiloxane elastomers: Effect of crosslinking, work of adhesion, and fluid environment on elastic modulus
Authors: Carrillo Fernando , Gupta Shikha , Balooch Mehdi , Marshall Sally J. , Marshall Grayson W. , Pruitt Lisa , Puttlitz Christian M.
Published: October 2005

With the potential to map mechanical properties of heterogeneous materials on a micrometer scale, there is growing interest in nanoindentation as a materials characterization technique. However, nanoindentation has been developed primarily for characterization of hard, elasto-plastic materials, and the technique has not been validated for very soft materials with moduli less than 5 MPa. The current study attempted to use nanoindentation to characterize the elastic moduli of soft, elastomeric polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) samples (with different degrees of crosslinking) and determine the effects of adhesion on these measurements using adhesion contact mechanics models. Results indicate that nanoindentation was able to differentiate between elastic moduli on the order of hundreds of kilo-Pascals. Moreover, calculations using the classical Hertz contact model for dry and aqueous environment gave higher elastic modulus values when compared to those obtained from unconfined compression testing. These data seem to suggest that consideration of the adhesion energy at the tip-sample interface is a significantly important parameter and needs to be taken into account for consistent elastic modulus determination of soft materials by nanoindentation.
Interface-dominated growth of a metastable novel alloy phase
Authors: Sarkar Subhendu , Datta Alokmay , Chakraborty Purushottam , Satpati Biswarup
Published: October 2005

A new D023 metastable phase of Cu3Au was found to grow at the interfaces of Au/Cu multilayers deposited by magnetron sputtering. The extent of formation of this novel alloy phase depends upon an optimal range of interfacial width primarily governed by the deposition wattage of the direct current magnetron used. Such interfacially confined growth is utilized to grow a ∼300-nm-thick Au/Cu multilayer with thickness of each layer nearly equal to the optimal interfacial width which was obtained from secondary-ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) data. This growth technique is observed to enhance the formation of the novel alloy phase to a considerable extent. The SIMS depth profile also indicates that the mass fragment corresponding to Cu3Au occupies the whole film while x-ray diffraction (XRD) shows almost all the strong peaks belonging to the D023 structure. High-resolution cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy shows the near-perfect growth of the individual layers and also the lattice image of the alloy phase in the interfacial region. Vacuum annealing of the alloy film and XRD studies indicate stabilization of the D023 phase at ∼150 °C. The role of interfacial confinement, the interplay between interfacial strain and free energy, and the hyperthermal species generated during the sputtering process are discussed.
Oxidation of Ni-toughened nc-TiN/a-SiNx nanocomposite thin films
Authors: Zhang Sam , Sun Deen , Zeng Xianting
Published: October 2005

Oxidation behavior of Ni-toughened reactively sputtered composite thin films of nanocrystalline TiN and amorphous SiNx [denoted as nc-TiN/a-SiNx(Ni)] was explored to understand the oxidation mechanism. The films were deposited on silicon substrate using a magnetron sputtering technique. Oxidation was carried out from 450 °C up to 1000 °C. The nature of the oxidation was determined using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The microstructure of the oxidized films was studied using grazing incidence x-ray diffraction. The topography was characterized using atomic force microscopy. It was determined that the oxidation of the nc-TiN/a-SiNx(Ni) thin film proceeds primarily through a diffusion process, in which nickel atoms diffuse outward and oxygen ions inward. The oxidation takes place by progressive replacement of nitrogen with diffused oxygen. Five regions were identified in the oxidized layer from surface into the film. For films doped with 2.1 at.% Ni, a threshold temperature of 850 °C was determined, below which, excellent oxidation resistance prevails but above which, oxidation takes place at exponential rate, accompanied by abrupt increase of surface roughness.
Preparation, structural characterization, and luminescence properties of Eu3+-doped nanocrystalline ZrO2
Authors: Speghini A. , Bettinelli M. , Riello P. , Bucella S. , Benedetti A.
Published: October 2005

Eu3+-doped zirconia nanopowders were prepared by the sol-gel technique using two different methods, based on the hydrolysis of zirconium n-propoxide, producing tetragonal and monoclinic zirconia under different preparation conditions. A detailed microstructure characterization was performed through wide angle x-ray scattering, small angle x-ray scattering, trasmission electron microscopy, and nitrogen physisorption measurements. The possible influence of the zirconia crystalline phases and particle sizes on the luminescence properties of the lanthanide ion was investigated. A detailed analysis of the emission spectra of the samples suggested that the dopant Eu3+ ions replace the Zr4+ ions in the zirconia crystal lattice. Moreover, samples prepared by the two different methods were characterized by different decay times of the Eu3+ ion luminescence.
Direct Synthesis of Barium Titanate Nanoparticles Via a Low Pressure Spray Pyrolysis Method
Authors: Wang Wei-Ning , Lenggoro I. Wuled , Terashi Yoshitake , Wang Yu-Cong , Okuyama Kikuo
Published: October 2005

The one-step synthesis of barium titanate (BaTiO3) nanoparticles was studied by employing a low-pressure spray pyrolysis (LPSP) method. The effects of temperature, pressure, and the addition of urea to the precursor were investigated experimentally. The results were compared with the experimental data of the conventional (atmospheric) spray pyrolysis method. It was shown that the BaTiO3 nanoparticles could be synthesized by the low-pressure method, while only spherical hollow particles with smooth surfaces could be produced by the conventional spray method. The addition of urea greatly improved the crystal growth and particle breakup due to extra heat supplied during the combustion reaction coupled with the evolution of gases. The dispersity of nanoparticles increased with the quantity of urea and with a decrease in pressure. The possible mechanism of the formation of BaTiO3 nanoparticles in the LPSP process was also proposed.
Briefing: Fossil-fuel price surges undermine UK energy policy
Authors: Sharman Hugh
Published: October 2005

September's announcement of a 14 % rise in UK gas prices is further evidence that the country's gas-based future energy policy energy may be flawed. Energy consultant Hugh Sharman analyses the Government's projections for falling fuel prices and concludes they seem increasingly over-optimistic—and that clean-coal and nuclear generation need to be given greater priority.
Briefing: Delivering value in construction design—a new approach
Authors: Austin Simon , Thomson Derek
Published: October 2005

Clients want ever more value from their construction projects but this can be difficult for designers to define and demonstrate. Simon Austin and Derek Thomson of Loughborough and Glasgow Caledonian universities describe a new approach in which all project stakeholders are engaged.
Briefing: Predicting project duration and cost with a spreadsheet
Authors: Hamilton Albert
Published: October 2005

Despite the advent of sophisticated project-management software, many construction projects still run over time or budget and then find their contingencies wanting. Albert Hamilton of the National Centre for Project Management at Middlesex University introduces a simple probability-based alternative using spreadsheets, which calculates the likelihood of particular costs and dates being met.
Briefing: How UK construction killed 76 people last year
Authors: Lamont Donald
Published: October 2005

In the past year the UK construction industry killed 76 people, virtually the same as last year and 20 more than in the much more widely reported London terrorist attacks. Donald Lamont, Health and Safety Executive representative on ICE's health and safety board, analyses the latest statistics in the hope civil engineers can help save more lives.
Why UK wind power should not exceed 10 GW
Authors: Sharman Hugh
Published: October 2005

Britain's wind power reached 1 GW in June this year, making it the eighth largest national installation in the world. Over the next 5 years a further 6 GW is likely to be built at a cost of £7 billion in the rush to meet the Government's target of 10% renewable energy by 2010. The plan is for wind energy to deliver three-quarters of the target but that, as this paper explains, would actually require 12 GW, meaning the target will not be met. Furthermore, experience in Denmark and Germany shows that the UK will find it impractical to manage much over 10 GW of unpredictable wind power without major new storage schemes or inter-connectors.The paper concludes that while wind power should be exploited as fully as possible, it must not be at the expense of renewing existing firm generating capacity.
Ma'rib Dam and irrigation project—a wonder in the desert
Authors: Chakraborty Rajib
Published: October 2005

Building major infrastructure projects in adverse social and climatic conditions is never easy.The Ma'rib irrigation project in Yemen is a classic case, with the £65 million scheme taking over 30 years to complete.Civil unrest, tribal feuds, flash floods and windblown sand all played their part in its delay, but work is finally scheduled to be completed next year.A total of 74 km2, including nearly 50 km2 of former desert, will soon be irrigated by the country's largest dam, enabling the land to be farmed again—as it was in ancient times. This paper describes the design and prolonged construction of this technologically straightforward yet hugely challenging and beneficial civil engineering project.
More Than Half of US Rural Hospitals No Longer Offer Birthing Services—Here’s Why
Authors: Anderer Samantha
Published: February 2024

This Medical News article discusses a new report on labor and delivery department closures in the rural US as well as potential financial and workforce solutions.
Ethnoracial Risk Variation Across the Psychosis Continuum in the US
Authors: van der Ven Els , Olino Thomas M. , Diehl Katharina , Nuñez Stephanie M. , Thayer Griffin , Bridgwater Miranda A. , Ereshefsky Sabrina , Musket Christie , Lincoln Sarah Hope , Rogers R. Tyler , Klaunig Mallory J. , Soohoo Emily , DeVylder Jordan E. , Grattan Rebecca E. , Schiffman Jason , Ellman Lauren M. , Niendam Tara A. , Anglin Deidre M.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Studies suggest a higher risk of schizophrenia diagnoses in Black vs White Americans, yet a systematic investigation of disparities that include other ethnoracial groups and multiple outcomes on the psychosis continuum is lacking.

Objective

To identify ethnoracial risk variation in the US across 3 psychosis continuum outcomes (ie, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, clinical high risk for psychosis [CHR-P], and psychotic symptoms [PSs] and psychotic experiences [PEs]).

Data Sources

PubMed, PsycINFO and Embase were searched up to December 2022.

Study Selection

Observational studies on ethnoracial differences in risk of 3 psychosis outcomes.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Using a random-effects model, estimates for ethnoracial differences in schizophrenia and PSs/PEs were pooled and moderation by sampling and setting was determined, along with the assessment of heterogeneity and risk of bias.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Risk of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorder, CHR-P, and conversion to psychosis among CHR-P and PSs/PEs.

Results

Of 64 studies in the systematic review, 47 were included in the meta-analysis comprising 54 929 people with schizophrenia and 223 097 with data on PSs/PEs. Compared with White individuals, Black individuals had increased risk of schizophrenia (pooled odds ratio [OR], 2.07; 95% CI, 1.64-2.61) and PSs/PEs (pooled standardized mean difference [SMD], 0.10; 95% CI, 0.03-0.16), Latinx individuals had higher risk of PSs/PEs (pooled SMD, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.08-0.22), and individuals classified as other ethnoracial group were at significantly higher risk of schizophrenia than White individuals (pooled OR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.31-2.50). The results regarding CHR-P studies were mixed and inconsistent. Sensitivity analyses showed elevated odds of schizophrenia in Asian individuals in inpatient settings (pooled OR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.19-2.84) and increased risk of PEs among Asian compared with White individuals, specifically in college samples (pooled SMD, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.02-0.29). Heterogeneity across studies was high, and there was substantial risk of bias in most studies.

Conclusions and Relevance

Findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis revealed widespread ethnoracial risk variation across multiple psychosis outcomes. In addition to diagnostic, measurement, and hospital bias, systemic influences such as structural racism should be considered as drivers of ethnoracial disparities in outcomes across the psychosis continuum in the US.
ILKAP Promotes the Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by Inhibiting β‐Catenin Degradation and Enhancing the WNT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Rui , Yuan Jinglei , Liu Shicheng , Torraca Vincenzo , Liao Zhiquan , Wu Yueyan , Tan Hongfei , Yao Xia , Hou Xueyang , Lyu Hao , Xiao Shuai , Guo Dong , Ali Declan William , Michalak Marek , Chen Xing‐Zhen , Zhou Cefan , Tang Jingfeng
Published: February 2024

The incidence of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and HCC‐related deaths have remarkably increased over the recent decades. It has been reported that β‐catenin activation can be frequently observed in HCC cases. This study identified the integrin‐linked kinase‐associated phosphatase (ILKAP) as a novel β‐catenin‐interacting protein. ILKAP is localized both in the nucleus and cytoplasm and regulates the WNT pathway in different ways. First, it is demonstrated that ILKAP activates the WNT pathway in HCC cells by increasing the protein level of β‐catenin and other proteins associated with the WNT signaling, such as c‐Myc and CyclinD1. Next, it is shown that ILKAP promotes the metastasis of HCC both in vitro and in vivo in a zebrafish xenograft model. It is also found that ILKAP dephosphorylates the GSK3β and CK1, contributing to the reduced ubiquitination of β‐catenin. Furthermore, it is identified that ILKAP functions by mediating binding between TCF4 and β‐catenin to enhance expression of WNT target genes. Taken together, the study demonstrates a critical function of ILKAP in metastasis of HCC, since ILKAP is crucial for the activation of the WNT pathway via stabilization of β‐catenin and increased binding between TCF4 and β‐catenin.
Epigenetics as a Key Factor in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Enikeeva Kadriia , Rafikova Guzel , Sharifyanova Yuliya , Mulyukova Diana , Vanzin Alexandr , Pavlov Valentin
Published: February 2024

Nowadays, prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of malignant neoplasms in men all over the world. Against the background of increasing incidence, there is a high mortality rate from prostate cancer, which is associated with an inadequate treatment strategy. Such a high prevalence of prostate cancer requires the development of methods that can ensure early detection of the disease, improve the effectiveness of treatment, and predict the therapeutic effect. Under these circumstances, it becomes crucial to focus on the development of effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Due to the development of molecular genetic methods, a large number of studies have been accumulated on the role of epigenetic regulation of gene activity in cancer development, since it is epigenetic changes that can be detected at the earliest stages of cancer development. The presence of epigenetic aberrations in tumor tissue and correlations with drug resistance suggest new therapeutic approaches. Detection of epigenetic alterations such as CpG island methylation, histone modification, and microRNAs as biomarkers will improve the diagnosis of the disease, and the use of these strategies as targets for therapy will allow for greater personalization of prostate cancer treatment.
Symmetry Breaking and Polarization Regulation in AgFeO2‐Based Photocathodes Through Oxygen Defect Engineering
Authors: Zhao Zong‐Yan , Dong Xu‐Dong , Shan Bao‐Feng , Yang Jian , Feng Jian‐Yong , Zhao Jian‐Hong , Zhang Jin , Liu Qing‐Ju , Li Zhao‐Sheng , Zou Zhi‐Gang
Published: February 2024

Polar materials, with intrinsic polarization effects, present significant potential for photo(electro)catalysis. However, the available natural polar materials in this field are quite scarce, due to the requisite structural non‐centrosymmetry. Defect engineering emerges as a promising avenue for tuning material symmetry, yet achieving the transition from centrosymmetric to non‐centrosymmetric structures and optimizing associated polarization effects remains challenging. This study demonstrates symmetry breaking in centrosymmetric 3R‐delafossite AgFeO2 through ordered oxygen defects introduction, yielding substantial macroscopic polarization. The transition is achieved via annealing post‐treatment of co‐precipitation‐hydrothermal AgFeO2 samples, with precision in oxygen defects control by tailoring annealing conditions. Experimental characterizations reveal ordered interstitial oxygen and disordered oxygen vacancies. Density functional theory calculations indicate a higher propensity for the formation of disordered oxygen vacancies compared to ordered ones, while ordered interstitial oxygen is more easily formed than its disordered counterpart. Resultant macroscopic polarization enhances photoelectrochemical performance, with photocurrent density increasing from 0.79 to 2.95 µA cm−2. Coupling macroscopic and spin polarization via external electric and magnetic fields further enhances photocurrent density (≈18.44 µA cm−2). These findings provide reference cases and strategies for applying polarization effects in photo(electro)catalytic technology.
Smart Multiple Photoresponsive Tongue for Sensing Umami, Sour and Bitter Tastes Based on Tb3+ Functionalized Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Frameworks
Authors: Zhang Zishuo , Yan Bing
Published: February 2024

Artificial tongues have attracted increasing attention for the perception abilities of five basic tastes. However, simple and versatile identification of different tastes is a formidable challenge for bionic taste sensor. Enriching photoluminescence mechanisms to improve possibilities of multiple optical responses is conducive to simplify the sensor array. Herein, a single sensor Tb@MCATMA (Tb@1) is developed displaying dual‐emissions of both green fluorescence and deep‐blue phosphorescence by ternary co‐assembly of Tb3+, trimesic acid (TMA) and a 2D hydrogen‐bonded organic framework of melamine and cyanuric acid, MCA HOF. This sensor is capable of imitating the human gustatory system to identify and discriminate umami (disodium 5′‐inosinate and disodium 5′‐guanylate), sour (citric acid and oxalic acid) and bitter (2‐furaldehyde and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural) substances through the diverse photoresponsive modes. Upon excitation wavelength as additional variable, the sensor can further collect the individual “fingerprint information” of six analytes related to tastes and quantitatively detect them with high accuracy. Moreover, the sensing mechanism of each analyte is explored in detail and substantiate that the uniform photoresponsive modes elicited by distinct analytes stem from the shared sensing mechanism. This work provides a facile and powerful sensor platform for taste perception to develop artificial photoresponsive tongue applicable to bionic gustatory system.
Utilizing Hairy Hollow Conjugated Microporous Polymers and Native Enzymes for Precise Aerobic Photocatalysis Under Near‐Infrared Wavelengths
Authors: Xiang Qian , Huang Yuan , Jiang Sheng Hong , Cheng Si‐Xue , Li Xue , Cai Tao
Published: February 2024

Utilizing photoregenerated cofactors in conjunction with enzymes in a sequential manner presents an effective approach for the synthesis of targeted compounds in gentle reaction conditions. Nevertheless, the integration of enzymes and photocatalysts has faced challenges due to the swift breakdown of biomaterials caused by high‐energy or blue lights and photoinduced reactive oxygen species, leading to the denaturation and deactivation of enzymatic materials. This study details the deliberate development and production of hairy hollow conjugated microporous polymers (S‐hPrTZ‐P HCMPs), achieved via Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling on SiO2 templates, followed by sulfonation, polymer grafting and ultimately eliminating the SiO2 cores. This technique leverages the distinctive characteristics of low‐energy near‐infrared light, such as its superior penetration ability, to effectively regenerate the enzymatic cofactor NAD+ from NADH. It can accomplish this feat even when faced with synthetic or biological barriers that are impermeable to visible light. Simultaneously, photogenerated reactive oxygen species are captured and neutralized by the hydrophilic polymer brushes, safeguarding the integrity of the enzymatic material. The adaptability of S‐hPrTZ‐P with photocatalytic properties is showcased alongside glucose 1‐dehydrogenase and glycerol dehydrogenase. This structure and morphology‐controlled strategy offers a promising pathway for various enzymatic photobiocatalysis employing stable, efficient, and reusable hairy HCMPs.
A Gradient Stiffness‐Programmed Circuit Board by Spatially Controlled Phase‐Transition of Supercooled Hydrogel for Stretchable Electronics Integration
Authors: Kim Minwoo , Hong Sangwoo , Park Jung Jae , Jung Yeongju , Choi Seok Hwan , Cho Chulmin , Ha Inho , Won Phillip , Majidi Carmel , Ko Seung Hwan
Published: February 2024

Due to emerging demands in soft electronics, there is an increasing need for material architectures that support robust interfacing between soft substrates, stretchable electrical interconnects, and embedded rigid microelectronics chips. Though researchers have adopted rigid‐island structures to solve the issue, this approach merely shifts stress concentrations from chip‐conductor interfaces to rigid‐island‐soft region interfaces in the substrate. Here, a gradient stiffness‐programmed circuit board (GS‐PCB) that possesses high stretchability and stability with surface mounted chips is introduced. The board comprises a stiffness‐programmed hydrogel substrate and a laser‐patterned liquid metal conductor. The hydrogel simultaneously obtains a large stiffness disparity and robust interfaces between rigid‐islands and soft regions. These seemingly contradictory conditions are accomplished by adopting a gradient stiffness structure at the interfaces, enabled by combining polymers with different interaction energies and a supercooled sodium acetate solution. By integrating the gel with laser‐patterned liquid metal with exceptional properties, GS‐PCB exhibits higher electromechanical stability than other rigid‐island research. To highlight the practicality of this approach, a finger‐sensor device that successfully distinguishes objects by direct physical contact is fabricated, demonstrating its stability under various mechanical disturbances.
Light‐Responsive Materials in Droplet Manipulation for Biochemical Applications
Authors: Cheng Guangyao , Kuan Chit Yau , Lou Kuan Wen , Ho Yi‐Ping
Published: February 2024

Miniaturized droplets, characterized by well‐controlled microenvironments and capability for parallel processing, have significantly advanced the studies on enzymatic evolution, molecular diagnostics, and single‐cell analysis. However, manipulation of small‐sized droplets, including moving, merging, and trapping of the targeted droplets for complex biochemical assays and subsequent analysis, is not trivial and remains technically demanding. Among various techniques, light‐driven methods stand out as a promising candidate for droplet manipulation in a facile and flexible manner, given the features of contactless interaction, high spatiotemporal resolution, and biocompatibility. This review therefore compiles an in‐depth discussion of the governing mechanisms underpinning light‐driven droplet manipulation. Besides, light‐responsive materials, representing the core of light–matter interaction and the key character converting light into different forms of energy, are particularly assessed in this review. Recent advancements in light‐responsive materials and the most notable applications are comprehensively archived and evaluated. Continuous innovations and rational engineering of light‐responsive materials are expected to propel the development of light‐driven droplet manipulation, equip droplets with enhanced functionality, and broaden the applications of droplets for biochemical studies and routine biochemical investigations.
Self‐Charging Aqueous Zn//COF Battery with UltraHigh Self‐Charging Efficiency and Rate
Authors: Zhong Leheng , Wang Chunfang , He Jun , lin Zhiqing , Yang Xiaodong , Li Ran , Zhan Shuai , Zhao Linwei , Wu Dan , Chen Hui , Tang Zijie , ZHi Chunyi , Lv (Lyu) Haiming
Published: February 2024

Self‐charging zinc batteries that combine energy harvesting technology with batteries are candidates for reliable self‐charging power systems. However, the lack of rational materials design results in unsatisfactory self‐charging performance. Here, a covalent organic framework containing pyrene‐4,5,9,10‐tetraone groups (COF‐PTO) is reported as a cathode material for aqueous self‐charging zinc batteries. The ordered channel structure of the COF‐PTO provides excellent capacity retention of 98% after 18 000 cycles at 10 A g−1 and ultra‐fast ion transfer. To visually assess the self‐charging performance, two parameters, namely self‐charging efficiency (self‐charging discharge capacity/galvanostatic discharge capacity, η) and average self‐charging rate (total discharge capacity after cyclic self‐charging/total cyclic self‐charging time, ν), are proposed for performance evaluation. COF‐PTO achieves an impressive η of 96.9% and an ν of 30 mAh g−1 self‐charge capacity per hour in 100 self‐charging cycles, surpassing the previous reports. Mechanism studies reveal the co‐insertion of Zn2+ and H+ double ions in COF‐PTO of self‐charging zinc batteries. In addition, the C═N and C═O (on the benzene) in COF‐PTO are ortho structures to each other, which can easily form metal heterocycles with Zn ions, thereby driving the forward progress of the self‐charging reaction and enhancing the self‐charging performance.
Mechanically Interlocked Interphase with Energy Dissipation and Fast Li‐Ion Transport for High‐Capacity Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Shi Zhangqin , Wang Yongming , Yue Xinyang , Zhao Jun , Fang Mingming , Liu Jijiang , Chen Yuanmao , Dong Yongteng , Yan Xuzhou , Liang Zheng
Published: February 2024

Constructing an artificial solid electrolyte interphase (ASEI) on Li metal anodes (LMAs) is a potential strategy for addressing the dendrite issues. However, the mechanical fatigue of the ASEI caused by stress accumulation under the repeated deformation from the Li plating/stripping is not taken seriously. Herein, this work introduces a mechanically interlocked [an]daisy chain network (DCMIN) into the ASEI to stabilize the Li metal/ASEI interface by combining the functions of energy dissipation and fast Li‐ion transport. The DCMIN featured by large‐range molecular motions is cross‐linked via efficient thiol‐ene click chemistry; thus, the DCMIN has flexibility and excellent mechanical properties. As an ASEI, the crown ether units in DCMIN not only interact with the dialkylammonium of a flexible chain, forming the energy dissipation behavior but also coordinate with Li ion to support the fast Li‐ion transport in DCMIN. Therefore, a stable 2800 h‐symmetrical cycling (1 mA cm−2) and an excellent 5 C‐rate (full cell with LiFePO4) performance are achieved by DCMIN‐based ASEI. Furthermore, the 1‐Ah pouch cell (LiNi0.88Co0.09Mn0.03O2 cathode) with DCMIN‐coated LMA exhibits improved capacity retention (88%) relative to the Control. The molecular design of DCMIN provides new insights into the optimization of an ASEI for high‐energy LMAs.
Sustainable Super‐Insulating Packaging Composite from Recycled Wood
Authors: Liu I‐Tseng , You Jhu‐Lin , Tung Shih‐Huang , Liao Ying‐Chih
Published: February 2024

Thermal insulation materials (TIMs) have been widely used over the past century. In this landscape, expandable polystyrene (EPS) is the dominant choice; however, the waste management of EPS is hampered by recycling challenges and lack of economic incentives. Concurrently, the order delivery and pharmaceutical distribution have experienced significant growth due to lifestyle shifts after the pandemic. For instance, the utilization of drones for transportation is illustrated (see abstract figure) as a prospective alternative transportation protocol. In this work, a synthetic method is developed to prepare bio‐degradable thermal insulator material from recycled wood and silica aerogel. The silica aerogel wood composite (SAWc) has the following properties: 1) low carbon emission (4.932 kg CO2e kg−1); 2) low thermal conductivity (0.032 W mK−1) with an anisotropy of 1.5; 3) high compressive strength (yield stress = 8.60 Mpa); 4) excellent resistance to organic solvents; 5) high biodegradability (49.4% weight loss after 28 days); 6) excellent flame retardancy, both of which are above EPS. The scalable, super‐insulating, and robust thermal insulator, as demonstrated in this work, holds high potential as an alternative packaging material poised to shape the next era in thermal insulation solutions.
Chromatin Remodeling in Patient‐Derived Colorectal Cancer Models
Authors: Xiang Kun , Wang Ergang , Mantyh John , Rupprecht Gabrielle , Negrete Marcos , Sanati Golshid , Hsu Carolyn , Randon Peggy , Dohlman Anders , Kretzschmar Kai , Bose Shree , Giroux Nicholas , Ding Shengli , Wang Lihua , Balcazar Jorge Prado , Huang Qiang , Sundaramoorthy Pasupathi , Xi Rui , McCall Shannon Jones , Wang Zhaohui , Jiang Chongming , Kang Yubin , Kopetz Scott , Crawford Gregory E. , Lipkin Steven M. , Wang Xiao‐Fan , Clevers Hans , Hsu David , Shen Xiling
Published: February 2024

Patient‐Derived Organoids (PDO) and Xenografts (PDX) are the current gold standards for patient‐derived models of cancer (PDMC). Nevertheless, how patient tumor cells evolve in these models and the impact on drug response remains unclear. Herein, the transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility landscapes of matched colorectal cancer (CRC) PDO, PDX, PDO‐derived PDX (PDOX), and original patient tumors (PT) are compared. Two major remodeling axes are discovered. The first axis delineates PDMC from PT, and the second axis distinguishes PDX and PDO. PDOX are more similar to PDX than PDO, indicating the growth environment is a driving force for chromatin adaptation. Transcription factors (TF) that differentially bind to open chromatins between matched PDO and PDOX are identified. Among them, KLF14 and EGR2 footprints are enriched in PDOX relative to matched PDO, and silencing of KLF14 or EGR2 promoted tumor growth. Furthermore, EPHA4, a shared downstream target gene of KLF14 and EGR2, altered tumor sensitivity to MEK inhibitor treatment. Altogether, patient‐derived CRC cells undergo both common and distinct chromatin remodeling in PDO and PDX/PDOX, driven largely by their respective microenvironments, which results in differences in growth and drug sensitivity and needs to be taken into consideration when interpreting their ability to predict clinical outcome.
From Basic Science to Clinical Practice: A Review of Current Periodontal/Mucogingival Regenerative Biomaterials
Authors: De Lauretis Angela , Øvrebø Øystein , Romandini Mario , Lyngstadaas Ståle Petter , Rossi Filippo , Haugen Håvard Jostein
Published: February 2024

Periodontitis is a dysbiosis‐driven inflammatory disease affecting the tooth‐supporting tissues, characterized by their progressive resorption, which can ultimately lead to tooth loss. A step‐wise therapeutic approach is employed for periodontitis. After an initial behavioral and non‐surgical phase, intra‐bony or furcation defects may be amenable to regenerative procedures. This review discusses the regenerative technologies employed for periodontal regeneration, highlighting the current limitations and future research areas. The search, performed on the MEDLINE database, has identified the available biomaterials, including biologicals (autologous platelet concentrates, hydrogels), bone grafts (pure or putty), and membranes. Biologicals and bone grafts have been critically analyzed in terms of composition, mechanism of action, and clinical applications. Although a certain degree of periodontal regeneration is predictable in intra‐bony and class II furcation defects, complete defect closure is hardly achieved. Moreover, treating class III furcation defects remains challenging. The key properties required for functional regeneration are discussed, and none of the commercially available biomaterials possess all the ideal characteristics. Therefore, research is needed to promote the advancement of more effective and targeted regenerative therapies for periodontitis. Lastly, improving the design and reporting of clinical studies is suggested by strictly adhering to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) 2010 statement.
Identifying and Amplifying the Spontaneously Formed Photo‐Charge Contribution in Opaque and Semitransparent Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Tang Yabing , Cui Yu , Zhang Rui , Xue Wenyue , Ma Wei , Yan Han
Published: February 2024

Spontaneous photo‐charge (SP) generation within the non‐fullerene (NFA) bulk helps avoid exciton (EX) related loss as compared to the traditional heterojunction route in organic solar cells (OSCs). Unfortunately, the promising SP utilization attracts little attention at this time due to the lack of knowledge on its specific contribution to the photovoltaic performance and rational optimization in high‐efficiency devices. To fill the gap, the NFAs’ SP characteristics are related with their photocurrent loss and power conversion efficiency (PCE) in state‐of‐the‐art materials. Though higher SP population is good for efficient EX utilization, it simultaneously acts as an additional photo‐charge recombination channel. The former can be further enhanced by increasing the NFAs’ crystallinity with preferred lamellar growth, and the latter can be suppressed via electric doping. With the aid of the two‐step optimization strategy, the total photocurrent loss is reduced from 14.4% to 4.8%, accompanying with PCE increment from 16.9% to 18.5%. The SP utilization strategy is finally applied in the semitransparent OSCs (ST‐OSCs), due to its less heterojunction area sensitive photo‐charge generation characteristic. A light utilization efficiency (LUE) is then increased from 3.21% to 3.77%. The findings highlight the pursue of efficient SP utilization as a new design philosophy in future OSCs’ progresses.
Ligand Mediated Assembly of CdS Colloids in 3D Porous Metal–Organic Framework Derived Scaffold with Multi‐Sites Heterojunctions for Efficient CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Zhang Tianxi , Li Tongtao , Gao Minmin , Lu Wanheng , Chen Zongwei , Ong Wei Li , Wong Andrew See Weng , Yang Liming , Kawi Sibudjing , Ho Ghim Wei
Published: February 2024

The inclusion of colloidal particles into 3D porous constructs to realize heterostructure ensembles enhances surface interactions and energy transfer that can transform the catalytic properties of conventional catalysts. However, assembling hydrophobic colloidal nanoparticles within hydrophilic 3D porous matrices to create tailored heterostructures and catalytic properties is particularly challenging. Here, a modified ligand grafting method is presented to spontaneously assemble CdS inorganic colloidal quantum dots within a metal‐organic framework (MOF) derived porous framework for efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction. The grafted long chain molecular ligands effectively suppress phase separation and endow a molecular‐recognition effect to form ordered assembly microstructures. The proof‐of‐concept assembly of CdS and Prussian blue analogues (PBA) derived Co3O4 facilitates a high density of heterojunctions formation, improving charge transfer and extended lifetimes of photo‐induced electrons. Consequently, CdS/Co3O4 assembly exhibits exceptionally active and stable photocatalytic CO2 reduction activity, with a CO production rate of 73.9 µmol g−1 h−1 and CO selectivity of 98.9%. Importantly, the ligand grafting method can be generalized to achieve spontaneous assembly of quantum dots within various metal organic framework derived porous scaffolds. This work provides a rational strategy for precise self‐assembly of colloidal nanoparticles within porous microstructures, allowing tailored heterointerfaces for functional materials and applications.