bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Layered Deep‐UV Optical Crystal KZn₂BO₃Br₂ as a High‐κ Dielectric for 2D Electronic Devices
Authors: Li Yixiang , Jian Chuanyong , Yuan Jiashuai , Hong Wenting , Yao Yu , Fu Zhipeng , Wang Bicheng , Cai Qian , Liu Wei
Published: December 2024

The development of dielectrics with atomic planes and van der Waals (vdW) interfaces is essential for enhancing the performance of 2D devices. However, vdW dielectrics often have smaller bandgaps compared to traditional 3D dielectrics, limiting their options. This study introduces AZBX (AZn₂BO₃X₂, where A = K or Rb, X = Cl or Br), a nonlinear deep‐ultraviolet optical crystal, as a quasi‐vdW layered dielectric ideal for 2D electronic devices. Focusing on KZBB, it's excellent dielectric properties, including a wide bandgap, high dielectric constant (high‐κ), and smooth interfaces are demonstrated. When used as the top gate dielectric in a KZBB/MoS₂ field‐effect transistor (FET) with MoS₂ channels and graphene contacts, the device exhibits outstanding performance, with a steep subthreshold swing (≈ 73 mV dec−1), high on/off ratio (≈ 10⁷), negligible hysteresis (0–8 mV), and stable, low leakage current (≈10⁻⁷ A cm−2) before breakdown. This work expands the 2D material and dielectric landscape and highlights the strong potential of AZBX as high‐performance dielectrics.
Thermal Annealing for High Performance and Memory Behavior in n‐Type Organic Electrochemical Transistors
Authors: Hidalgo Castillo Tania Cecilia , Shan Wentao , Ma Guorong , Zhao Haoyu , Wang Yunfei , Druet Victor , Saleh Abdulelah , Gu Xiaodan , Inal Sahika
Published: December 2024

N‐type organic mixed ionic electronic conductors (n‐OMIECs) struggle to match the performance of p‐type counterparts, particularly in bioelectronics' flagship device, the organic electrochemical transistor. Enhancing n‐type transistor performance typically necessitates the synthesis of new materials. More sustainable post‐synthetic treatments, known to improve organic devices in dry and oxygen‐free conditions, are not applied to n‐OMIECs. This study introduces thermal annealing to enhance n‐OMIECs' electron mobility without sacrificing their ability to take up ionic charges. Annealing increases the crystallinity of p(gNDI‐gT2), the first designed n‐OMIEC, enhancing its transistor performance to compete with new‐generation NDI‐based materials. Annealing reduces passive and in operando electrolyte uptake without compromising the device threshold voltage, keeping the device power demand low. The microstructure obtained by annealing, combined with the film's strong near‐infrared (NIR) absorption and reduced water swelling, enables the creation of a device that retains photocurrent generated upon frequency‐dependent light training. This leads to a microscale, water‐compatible memory device that emulates the learning process of biological neurons triggered by light. This simple device can be implemented in artificial neural networks and face recognition platforms and achieve vector‐matrix multiplication when fabricated in an array form, showcasing the potential for innovative applications in bioelectronics.
Xolography for 3D Printing in Microgravity
Authors: König Niklas Felix , Reuter Marcus , Reuß Marvin , Kromer Christian Sebastian Fabian , Herder Martin , Garmshausen Yves , Asfari Baraa , Israel Eric , Vasconcelos Lima Lucíola , Puvati Nishit , Leonhard Jannes , Madalo Linos , Heuschkel Steffen , Engelhard Marcus , Arzhangnia Yousef , Radzinski Dirk
Published: December 2024

Xolography is a volumetric 3D printing technique utilizing intersecting light beams within a volume of photopolymer for a spatially controlled photopolymerization. Unlike layer‐based methods, Xolography creates structures continuously within a closed photopolymer vat, eliminating the prevalent need for support structures and allowing full geometrical freedom at high printing speeds. The volumetric working principle does not rely on gravity, making Xolography an outstanding technology for additive manufacturing under microgravity conditions as illustrated in a set of experiments during a parabolic flight campaign. The microgravity environment obviates the need for rheology control of resins, enabling the use of low‐viscosity formulations (e.g., 11 mPa s) while maintaining the fast and precise 3D printing of acrylic polymer resins and hydrogels. Xolography's speed and reliability facilitate rapid iterations of a print task between Earth's gravity and microgravity conditions. This capability positions Xolography as an ideal tool for material research and manufacturing in space, offering significant cost and efficiency advantages over traditional methods.
A New Generation of Multimilliwatt‐Class Colloidal Quantum‐Dot Lasers at Full Colors
Authors: Zhang Hao , Jiao Kerong , Hu Yongsheng , Huang Zhigao , Wu Yuting , Song Qingxiu , Ta Van Duong , Sun Handong , Shen Hua , Wang Yue
Published: December 2024

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are attractive gain materials owing to the wide range of accessible colors. However, the existing QD lasers struggle to combine technologically relevant metrics of low threshold and long operating duration with considerable output powers. Here a new class of full‐color QD lasers are reported, featuring low threshold, uninterrupted operation for dozens of hours, and multimilliwatt output under quasi‐steady‐state pumping, by coupling the high‐gain QDs with a double‐clad pumping scheme. Corroborated by the comprehensive transient spectroscopy and numerical simulation, it is demonstrated that the ternary QDs with specially designed fine nanostructure enable the low gain threshold, giant gain coefficient, long gain lifetime, and excellent resistance against intense photoexcitation. Meanwhile, the double‐clad QD‐fiber design allows for record‐long light‐gain interaction, high conversion efficiency, and sustained device operation. As such, the QD lasers with multimilliwatt output powers, unobserved in QD lasers to date, have been realized. Further, the proof‐of‐concept application for generating vortex beams with various topological charges is demonstrated. This work represents significant progress toward practical lasers based on QDs.
Nonlinear Optical Properties of 2D vdW Ferromagnetic Nanoflakes for Magneto‐Optical Logic Applications
Authors: Bera Satyabrata , Kalimuddin Sk , Bera Arnab , Roy Deep Singha , Debnath Tuhin , Das Soham , Mondal Mintu
Published: December 2024

2D magnetic materials are garnering significant interest due to their high carrier mobilities, valley pseudospins, tunable bandgaps, and novel spin textures enabling exciting opportunities to explore unique nonlinear optical phenomena and develop next‐generation magneto‐optic and optoelectronic devices. Recently, the FenGeTe2 (FnGT) family of 2D magnets has emerged as a promising candidate for spintronic applications due to their non‐trivial spin textures in low dimensions compared to bulk materials. A coherent interaction is reported between light and suspended FnGT nanoflakes (NFs), resulting in spatial self‐phase modulation (SSPM), a direct manifestation of the optical Kerr effect. The nonlinear refractive index (n2) and third‐order optical susceptibility (χ(3)) are quantitatively estimated from the self‐diffraction patterns of FnGT NFs. The time evolution of the self‐diffraction patterns aligns with the “wind‐chime” model, and the deformation of rings is analyzed in terms of thermal effects. FnGT systems exhibit strong optical non‐linearity (χ(3) ∼ 10−8 esu), an order of magnitude higher than other metal dichalcogenides and 2D magnets. Furthermore, all‐optical logic gates have been realized using cross‐phase modulation. The FnGT family of 2D magnets, with their high curie temperature and robust higher‐order optical nonlinearities, are promising candidates for future magneto‐optical and optoelectronic device applications.
Mode‐dependent Far‐field Radiation of Circularly Polarized Light by a Single Plasmonic Nanohelix
Authors: Cui Yiou , Chen Yilin , Li Jing , Wang Shengyan , Zhang Ruiqian , Chen Zhongyi , Liu Huan , Cui Ximin , Shi Xihang , Xie Biye , Zhuo Xiaolu
Published: December 2024

Chiral plasmonic nanoantennas exhibit unique chiroptical properties in both the near‐field and far‐field, offering exciting opportunities for applications in chiroptical sensing, circularly polarized luminescence, and quantum communication. Recent advances in chiral plasmonics have facilitated the creation of nanoparticles with intrinsic chirality at the single‐particle level. However, the far‐field directionality of these chiral nanoantennas is not well understood. In this work, A numerical study is conducted on a single plasmonic nanoantenna that undergoes a size‐preserving compression, transitioning from a straight nanorod to left‐ or right‐handed helices with varying pitches. These nanostructures showcase distinct mode‐dependent chiroptical far‐field properties, encompassing positive or negative dissymmetry factors, 3D power radiation patterns, and angular distribution of circular polarization, under both plane‐wave and point‐source excitations. The findings provide new insights into angle‐resolved spectroscopies of intrinsically chiral plasmonic nanoparticles and the applications of chiral plasmonic nanoantennas for controlling circularly polarized light emission in nanophotonics.
Photoinduced Metal‐Free Hydrocarboxylation of Allylamines
Authors: Kobus‐Bartoszewicz Dominika , Zalewski Mariusz , Melcer Krzysztof , Warda Mikołaj , Stecko Sebastian
Published: December 2024

Herein, we disclose a new photochemical process to prepare γ‐amino acids from allylamines and formic acid salts. The investigated redox‐neutral hydrocarboxylation process produces high yields across a wide range of functionalized allylamine substrates with excellent regioselectivity. The developed operationally simple protocol can be readily scaled with low photocatalyst loading (from 1% up to 0.02 mol%) without the need for any precautions to exclude air or moisture. The mechanistic working model utilizes a thiol‐catalyzed radical chain process, delivering the hydrogen atom and CO2 from formic acid salt across the alkene substrate through the carboxylate radical (CO2⋅−), a crucial reactive intermediate.
Amplifying and Reversing the Chiral Bias in Asymmetric Photo‐Polymerization Reaction
Authors: Liu Dingdong , Xu Xiangxiang , Feng Zeyu , Zhang Chutian , Li Jialei , Xie Yifan , Li Jingguo , Zhang Hongli , Zou Gang
Published: December 2024

Circularly polarized light (CPL) is inherently chiral and is regarded as one possible source for the origin of homochirality. Coincidentally, chiral metal nanoparticles have great prospects in asymmetric photochemical reactions since they can enhance the chiral light‐matter interactions. Nonetheless, little is known about how the spin angular momentum of light competes with the chiral electromagnetic field in the vicinity of a chiral nanoparticle during the chiral induction and amplification process. Here, an asymmetric photo‐polymerization system is presented where the chiral bias can be selectively regulated by the combination of chiral fields CPL and Ag nanoparticles, either constructively or destructively. Synergistic chiral amplification effect is observed when the handedness of both are matched, while the opposite‐handed CPL can overrule the polymer helicity during the chain propagation process when the chiral near‐field is weak. There is a bifurcation point in the chiral bias for the orthogonal control of the polymer helicity during the asymmetric photo‐polymerization process, favoring for programmable chiroptical micropatterns and multi‐channel independent information encoding. This work not only highlights opportunities for selectively regulating the asymmetric photopolymerization but also is highly valuable for fundamental understanding of the symmetry breaking in photochemical reactions.
Novel Guidelines of Redox Mediators for Practical Lithium–Oxygen Batteries: Characterization Mechanisms, Design Principle, and Engineering Strategies
Authors: Li Tianci , Liu Dongsheng , Gao Lu , Yu Dan , Liu Xia , Li Lei , Kang Weimin
Published: December 2024

In recent years, aprotic lithium–oxygen (Li–O2) batteries have received extensive academic attention for their ultrahigh capacity. However, their practical development faces the problems of low capacity, low rate, and short lifetime. Soluble catalysis with efficient redox mediators (RMs) is considered a feasible strategy owing to its good interfacial contact and flexible action. However, the mutual constraints of RMs charging/discharging catalysis, the erosion of anode by RMs shuttle effect leading to deactivation, and the decomposition of RMs or the initiation of side reactions have greatly limited the effectiveness of RMs in Li–O2 batteries. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize RMs and find traceable principles and directions. Based on this, this work systematically reviews the mechanism, effectiveness, and characterization of RMs in Li–O2 batteries. The design principles of novel RMs constructed by two research tendencies of kinetics and thermodynamics are pioneered, and the key roles of ionization energy and site‐resistive groups are especially pointed out. In addition, the current optimization design strategies for RMs are summarized. Specifically, the introduction of functional groups such as adsorption, conductivity, active sites, and the use of intermolecular forces for efficient RMs are highlighted, designed to provide direction for optimization and development of RMs.
Dense Crystalline‐Amorphous Nano‐Interfaces Derived from Local Reconstruction for Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Nie Jianhang , Shi Jinghui , Li Lei , Xie Meng‐Yuan , Ouyang Zhen‐Yang , Xian Ming‐Hua , Huang Gui‐Fang , Wan Hui , Hu Wangyu , Huang Wei‐Qing
Published: December 2024

The crystalline‐amorphous (c‐a) interface can provide abundant accessible active sites and high intrinsic activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER); however, conventional methods only produce sparse c‐a interface between hetero‐phases. Here, a novel soluble dopant‐induced local self‐reconstruction strategy to yield dense c‐a nano‐interfaces is presented, as demonstrated by Mo doped‐NiP pre‐catalyst. During the cathodic polarization in alkaline electrolyte, the Mo dopant initially dissolves, generating abundant nano‐voids within the NiP nanosheets; and subsequently forms in situ ultrafine amorphous MoO3 nanoparticles, ranging from 2 to 4 nm in size, embedded in the crystalline NiP nanosheets. Compared with the conventional surface reconstruction that only generates sparse c‐a interface, the proposed “dopant‐dissolution‐redeposition”, occurred in the surface and inner local regions around dopants, can yield dense c‐a nano‐interface. Theoretical calculations reveal that the c‐a interface can efficiently modulate the electronic structure of interfacial sites and lower the HER overpotential. Benefiting from the dense c‐a nano‐interface, the amorphous/crystalline MoO3/Mo‐NiP exhibits outstanding HER performance, achieving current density of 10 mA cm−2 at ultra‐low overpotentials of 26 mV with long‐term stability in 1 M KOH. This work provides a basis for tuning the composition‐structure‐property relationships of materials from both surface and interior.
Potential of short‐duration millets as a post‐winter wheat crop in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Pudasaini Roshan , Raizada Manish N.
Published: December 2024

In northern latitudes, the diversity of the maize (Zea mays L.)–soybean (Glycine max L.) cropping system can be increased by including winter wheat as a rotation crop, providing long‐term benefits including improved nutrient availability, nutrient‐use efficiency, soil structure, and moisture holding. However, in Ontario, Canada, few farmers have adopted winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) due to low profitability. After the wheat harvest, there is a 3‐month window with warm days and moist soil, sufficient to grow a short‐duration crop. Some millet varieties are short duration. Millets are increasingly valued economically as “ancient grains” for humans, as a nutritious forage, and as effective cover crops due to their fibrous roots and dense foliage. Though millets offer similar long‐term benefits to wheat in a rotation, they cannot economically compete with maize or soybean as a summer season crop. We hypothesized that the economic constraints of winter wheat and millets could be overcome by double cropping, specifically by adding a low‐input, short‐duration millet after winter wheat is harvested. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of millets as a post‐winter wheat crop in Ontario. Three years of field trials (2020–2022) were conducted in Elora and Essex, Ontario, starting with 81 accessions of five millet crops. Selected accessions of proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) produced up to 0.5 t/ha grain yield, whereas foxtail millet [Setaria italica (L.) P. Beav] and barnyard millet (Echinochloa spp.) at Elora, and fonio (Digitaria sp.) in Essex produced up to 0.9–1.6 t/ha dry shoot yield. However, planting date, initial soil moisture, weed management, and fall frost were observed to be critical for millet success.
Family support and dementia screening participation among older adults: Evidence from a South Korea fact‐finding survey on the status of older adults
Authors: Kim Jieun , Lee Hooyeon
Published: December 2024

Objectives

South Korea is one of the most rapidly aging societies worldwide and the prevalence of dementia is expected to rise to 10.3% by 2025. Early diagnosis requires early access to support, information, and medication. Dementia screening is important for the success of dementia‐related healthcare programs. We investigated the rate of participation in dementia screening and the relationship with family support.

Methods

We used data from the 2020 “South Korea fact‐finding survey on status of older adults,” a cross‐sectional survey targeting adults aged ≥65 years. A total of 9558 respondents were analyzed. We used multivariable logistic regression to analyze the associations between sociodemographic characteristics, including family support, and dementia screening participation.

Results

A total of 62.2% participants received emotional support from their family, and 20.6% received physical support with cleaning, meal preparation, and laundry, general care, nursing, and traveling to the hospital. Of the respondents, 41.8% had participated in dementia screening during the previous 2 years. Older adults with emotional support (OR = 1.41, 95% CI, 1.28–1.54) and physical support (OR = 1.46, 95% CI, 1.31–1.62) were more likely to undergo dementia screening than those without such support. Age, annual household income, education, reason for working, drinking status, exercise, emotional support, and physical support were significantly associated with dementia screening in older adults.

Conclusions

Older adults with low emotional or physical support from family should be considered a vulnerable population with respect to non‐participation in dementia screening. Therefore, policies targeting these high‐risk groups are needed to increase the dementia screening rate.
Mayo Genetic Risk Models for Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treated With Venetoclax + Hypomethylating Agent
Authors: Gangat Naseema , Elbeih Azeem , Ghosoun Nour , McCullough Kristen , Aperna Fnu , Johnson Isla M. , Abdelmagid Maymona , Al‐Kali Aref , Alkhateeb Hassan B. , Begna Kebede H. , Elliott Michelle , Mangaonkar Abhishek , Matin Aasiya , Saliba Antoine N. , Hefazi Torghabeh Mehrdad , Litzow Mark R. , Hogan William , Shah Mithun , Patnaik Mrinal M. , Pardanani Animesh , Badar Talha , Murthy Hemant , Foran James , Palmer Jeanne , Sproat Lisa , Khera Nandita , Arana Yi Cecilia , Yates Samuel , Sneider Abigail , Dworkin Emily , Patel Anand A. , Bazinet Alexandre , Senapati Jayastu , Bataller Alex , DiNardo Courtney , Kadia Tapan , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: December 2024

Patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (ND‐AML) derive variable survival benefit from venetoclax + hypomethylating agent (Ven‐HMA) therapy. The primary objective in the current study was to develop genetic risk models that are predictive of survival and are applicable at the time of diagnosis and after establishing treatment response. Among 400 ND‐AML patients treated with Ven‐HMA at the Mayo Clinic, 247 (62%) achieved complete remission with (CR) or without (CRi) count recovery. Multivariable analysis–derived hazard ratios (HR), including 1.8 for European LeukemiaNet (ELN) adverse karyotype, 4.7 for KMT2Ar, 1.7 for TP53
MUT, 2.6 for KRAS MUT, and 2.1 for IDH2
WT were applied to develop an HR‐weighted risk model: low, intermediate, and high; respective median survival censored for allogeneic stem cell transplant (ASCT) (3‐year survival) were “not reached” (67%), 19.1 (33%), and 7.1 months (0%). In patients achieving CR/CRi, adverse karyotype, KMT2Ar, KRAS
MUT, IDH2
WT predicted inferior survival, allowing for a complementary response‐stratified risk model. The model was externally validated and was shown to be superior to the ELN 2024 risk model (AIC 179 vs. 195 and AUC 0.77 vs. 0.69). Survival was inferior with failure to achieve CR/CRi or not receiving ASCT; 3‐year survival for high‐risk with or without ASCT was 42% versus 0% (p < 0.01); intermediate 72% versus 43% (p = 0.06); and low‐risk 88% versus 78% (p = 0.53). The Mayo genetic risk models offer pre‐treatment and response‐based prognostic tools for ND‐AML treated with Ven‐HMA. The current study underscores the prognostically indispensable role of achieving CR/CRi and ASCT.
Post mortem validation and mechanistic study of UCB‐J in progressive supranuclear palsy patients’ brains
Authors: Scarpa Miriam , Vallera Elisavet , Ausellé‐Bosch Sira , Rocha Filipa M. , Mercan Buse Esra , Roy Avishek , Nordberg Agneta , Kumar Amit
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a devastating 4R tauopathy affecting motor functions and is often misdiagnosed/underdiagnosed due to a lack of specific biomarkers. Synaptic loss is an eminent feature of tauopathies including PSP. Novel synaptic positron emission tomography tracer UCB‐J holds great potential for early diagnosis; however, there is a substantial knowledge gap in terms of the mechanism and the extent and nature of synaptic loss in PSP.

METHODS

Here, we report an in‐depth post mortem validation and mechanistic study of UCB‐J in PSP and control brains using radioligand/autoradiography binding studies, alongside biochemical correlation analyses of synaptic markers.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

3H‐UCB‐J targeted synaptic vesicle protein 2A protein with high specificity and demonstrated a distinct interrelation with synaptic markers in PSP patients’ brain regions. The loss of UCB‐J binding in the early and severely affected globus pallidus of PSP patients’ brains revealed deficits of glutamate/GABAergic synaptic terminals. Cortical and subcortical 4R tau load differentially impacted synaptic marker profiles across PSP patients, warranting further investigation.

Highlights

UCB‐J targeted synaptic vesicle protein 2A with high specificity in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) brains and demonstrated a conserved single nM binding site across different brain regions.

UCB‐J depicted prominent synaptic loss at the synaptosome levels and revealed deficits of glutamate/GABAergic synaptic terminals in the early affected globus pallidus of PSP brains as compared to the control.

Cortical and subcortical 4R tau load distinctly influenced synaptic markers profile across PSP patients and highlighted that presynaptic “ubiquitous” markers individually might not be able to represent the complete state of synaptic deficits/loss in PSP brains.
Highly Oriented and Ordered Co‐Assembly Monolayers for Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chang Yilin , Liu Le , Qi Lu , Du Jiajia , Du Qinglin , Yu Zhibin , Ma Zhiwei , Jiu Tonggang , Li Yuliang
Published: December 2024

Perovskite solar cells with inverted architecture have remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE) and operating stability based on self‐assembled molecules (SAMs) hole transport layer. Homogeneous distribution and covalent binding mode of SAM monolayers are critical to improving interfacial property and reducing interfacial losses, which can be achieved through molecular design and co‐assembly strategy. Here, we propose co‐assembly strategy with SAM by employing a novel 2D π‐conjugated structure graphdiyne derivative (PAG) with phosphoric acid groups. Through the π‐π interaction and hydrogen bonding between PAG and SAM, the enhanced tridentate anchoring and highly ordered molecular orientation perpendicular to the substrate are successfully achieved. The improvement of interfacial characteristics further optimizes the crystalline quality and buried interface properties of perovskite films, allowing us to achieve a remarkable PCE of 26.10 % under standard illumination.
Chiral Metal‐Free Anti‐Perovskite with Strong Chiroptical Nonlinearity
Authors: Wang Zhaoyu , Qiu Xin , Wang Hebin , Zhao Wenkai , Gull Sehrish , Lu Haolin , Hao Zechen , Sun Bing , Zeng Xin , Liu Xinfeng , Zhang Hao‐Li , Chen Yongsheng , He Tingchao , Long Guankui
Published: December 2024

The nonlinear chiroptical properties of chiral metal halide perovskite has attracted substantial attention in recent years. In order to overcome the inherent limitations of metal halide, such as high costs, potential toxicity, challenges with recycling, especially the limited laser‐induced damage threshold (LDT), we have successfully constructed the first chiral metal‐free anti‐perovskite, with the aim of utilizing it in second harmonic generation‐circular dichroism (SHG‐CD). Moreover, the anti‐perovskite composed entirely of small organic ions typically display a more extensive transparent window, which could contribute a high LDT. Herein two chiral metal‐free anti‐perovskites, R/S‐MCN [(R/S‐MBA)6Cl(NH4Cl6)] were constructed, and exhibit strong second‐harmonic generation response from 800 to 980 nm. The second‐order nonlinear optical coefficient of the chiral metal‐free anti‐perovskite reaches 0.89 pm/V, which is higher than that of commercial Y‐cut quartz. Most importantly, both R‐ and S‐MCN exhibit a large nonlinear optical activity with a high SHG dissymmetry factor (gSHG‐CD) of 0.60 and a high laser‐induced damage threshold of 71 mJ/cm2, which is higher than that of most reported chiral perovskites. Our findings indicate that chiral metal‐free anti‐perovskite have the potential to be a valuable addition to the development of next‐generation nonlinear chiroptical devices.
Enhanced Rubber–Plastic Compatibility for Novel Multifunctional Thermoplastic Vulcanized Rubber
Authors: Gao Wenke , Zou Muhua , Yue Song , Liu Yudong , Li Bingxiang , Liu Jinhui , Liu Kai
Published: December 2024

Thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), with both rubber‐like elasticity and plastic‐like molding processing, suggests great potential in automobile manufacturing, medical equipment, aerospace, and other fields. However, due to the poor rubber–plastic compatibility and the lack of functional elastomers, the commercial TPV is mainly prepared based on the ethylene propylene diene monomer/polypropylene (EPDM/PP) composites. Herein, we employed high vinyl polybutadiene rubber (HVBR) as the rubber phase and PP as the plastic phase to realize a novel multifunctional TPV. Benefiting from the strong rubber–plastic interfacial interaction and compatibility, the dynamically vulcanized HVBR region transformed into the island‐like phase and was uniformly distributed in the PP phases, thereby forming an even and continuous “sea‐island” structure. By optimizing the HVBR/PP blending ratio, the prepared TPV showed multifunctionality, including high mechanical strength, high elasticity, high damping, good shape memory, and repeatable processability. Collectively, the research strategy and results in this work suggest a feasible pathway toward high‐performance and multifunctional thermoplastic elastomers.
Lignin‐Modified Epoxy Resin With Good Mechanical and Shape Memory Performance Fabricated by Synergistic Dispersion and Crosslinking With Polyetheramine
Authors: Xu Hongjun , Pan Jianqiang , Chen Changbiao , Zhao Songmei , Xiao Jiahao , Wang Hui , Wu Xinxing , Han Shuaibo , Zhang Yan , Sun Fangli
Published: December 2024

To improve the reactivity and compatibility of lignin, it was first functionalized via the method of epoxidation. The epoxidized lignin (LEP) modified epoxy resin with good mechanical and shape memory performance was fabricated ingeniously by introducing the LEP into the epoxy resin homogeneously with the aid of synergistic dispersion and crosslinking of polyetheramine without using organic solvents. The effect of LEP addition on the curing reaction, thermal, mechanical, and shape memory performance of epoxy resin were intensively evaluated. The epoxy‐diamine curing reaction was promoted by the LEP incorporation, and the thermal stability and mechanical performance of epoxy resin were improved. The tensile strength and modulus of the LEP‐modified epoxy were increased by 14.3% and 32.5%, respectively. Such reinforcing effect of LEP on the thermal and mechanical performance was contributed to the rigid LEP chains which were chemically crosslinked into the network of epoxy resin uniformly. Also, the rigid LEP component in the cured epoxy resin inhibited the movement of chain segments, which could enhance the mechanical stability and slow down the rapid shape recovery rate of the epoxy resin network to some extent.
Effect of Hard Segment Content and Molecular Weight of Liquid Polysulfide on the Microphase Separation Structure–Property of One‐Component Polysulfide Adhesives
Authors: Han Xu , Pan Zhijian , Chang Le , Ji Yumei , Wang Zeqian , Liu Feng
Published: December 2024

The degree of microphase separation plays a vital role in one‐component polysulfide adhesives determining their mechanical properties and thermal stability. However, the degree of microphase separation was mainly determined by the hard segment content and molecular weight of liquid polysulfide. In this work, we successfully prepared a series of one‐component polysulfide adhesives with 30 wt%–50 wt% hard segment content by using 4,4‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), different molecular weights (1000, 2500, and 4000 g/mol) of liquid polysulfides (JLY‐121/1225/124) and 1,4‐butanedithiol (BSO), and systematically investigated the relationship between microphase separation and material's properties. The results revealed that higher hard segment content and larger molecular weight of liquid polysulfide contributed to forming a higher degree of microphase separation, respectively. Among them, the optimal mechanical properties and thermal stability were obtained at 40 wt% hard segment content when JLY‐1225 (2500 g/mol) was used. After immersion in the oil and water for 21 days, the tensile strength of C40‐1225 could still reach 16.99 ± 0.80 and 14.87 ± 0.30 MPa, with a tensile strength retention rate of 75.75% (oil) and 66.30% (water), confirming that one‐component polysulfide adhesives had good solvent resistance.
Endoplasmic Reticulum‐Targeting Delayed Fluorescent Probe for Dual‐mode Nitroreductase Sensing
Authors: V T K Shradha , Das Subhadeep , Patra Abhijit
Published: December 2024

Organic thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials, known for their long‐lived emission properties, are highly sought after for background‐free imaging of selective analytes in time‐resolved modes. However, their practical application faces significant challenges, including the air sensitivity of triplet states, lack of organelle specificity, and the absence of precise analyte recognition centres. These limitations hinder their effectiveness in detecting key cancer biomarkers such as nitroreductase (NTR). Herein, we present the development of donor (triphenylamine)‐acceptor (quinoxaline)‐based probes, TPQS and TPNS, which are functionalized with a sulphonamide unit to offer endoplasmic reticulum specificity. TPQS exhibits delayed fluorescence, attributed to a minimal singlet‐triplet energy gap, as confirmed by time‐resolved fluorescence measurements. Additionally, a nonfluorescent probe, TPNS, is synthesized by introducing a nitro group into the sulphonamide unit of the TPQS backbone, serving as a recognition centre for NTR. Upon reacting with NTR, TPNS displays a “turn‐on” luminescence and delayed fluorescence, enabling dual‐mode detection of NTR through both confocal fluorescence imaging and time‐resolved fluorescence imaging (TRFI) in cancer cells. These findings underscore the potential of delayed fluorescent emitters for the sensitive and specific detection of cancer biomarkers in complex biological environments.
Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting and Body Motion Sensing of a Pair of 0D Chiral Hybrid Metal Halides
Authors: Zhao Chen , Li Zi‐Ying , Gong Yong‐Ji , Yang Hai‐Run , Zhang Zhuo , Feng Rui , Li Wei
Published: December 2024

Chiral hybrid metal halides have received considerable attention in circularly polarized luminescence and spintronics due to their structural diversity, ease of synthesis, and chemical versatility. However, only a limited number of chiral metal halides have been utilized in piezoelectric energy harvesters and motion sensors. Furthermore, the exploration of 0D chiral piezoelectric materials is still in their early stage, offering substantial potential for further development. Herein, a pair of enantiomorphic hybrid metal halide piezoelectrics, R‐(1‐2‐NEA)2CdCl4 and S‐(1‐2‐NEA)2CdCl4 (1‐2‐NEA+=1‐(2‐naphthyl) ethylamine cation), were synthesized and structurally characterized. In addition, the devices comprising R‐(1‐2‐NEA)2CdCl4/PDMS or S‐(1‐2‐NEA)2CdCl4/PDMS (PDMS=polydimethylsiloxane) composite films were fabricated, and the energy harvesting performance of the devices with varying halide contents was explored. The results demonstrate that the devices comprising 10 wt % R‐(1‐2‐NEA)2CdCl4/PDMS or S‐(1‐2‐NEA)2CdCl4/PDMS exhibit significant energy harvesting capabilities, with an open‐circuit voltage and a short‐circuit current up to 8.24 V and 0.72 μA, respectively. Furthermore, the devices display exceptional mechanical durability after 4500 cycles and demonstrate excellent sensitivity in detecting various human body movements, such as walking, elbow bending, and finger bending. This study highlights the considerable potential of chiral hybrid metal halides for using in energy harvesting and wearable sensors.
Clinical validation of a biopsy‐based six‐gene signature prognostic for aggressive prostate cancer
Authors: Krzyzanowska Agnieszka , Higgins Debra F. , Barron Stephen , Loughman Tony , O'Neill Amanda , Sheehan Katherine M. , Wang Chan‐Ju Angel , Fender Bozena , McGuire Leah , Fay Joanna , O'Grady Anthony , O'Leary Des , Watson R. William , Bjartell Anders , Gallagher William M.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to clinically validate the six‐gene prognostic molecular clinical risk score (MCRS) for the prediction of aggressive prostate cancer in diagnostic biopsy tissue.

Methods

MCRS was evaluated in prostate biopsy tissue from a Swedish cohort of men with prostate cancer (UPCA, n = 100). The primary outcome of adverse pathology and secondary outcomes of high primary Gleason (≥G4) and high pathological T‐stage (≥T3) were assessed by likelihood ratio statistics and area under the receiver operating characteristic curves from logistic regression models; time to biochemical recurrence was assessed by likelihood ratio statistics and C‐indexes from Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results

Biopsy MCRS was significantly prognostic (p < 0.0001) and added significant prognostic value to clinico‐pathological features for adverse pathology, high primary Gleason and high pathological T‐stage (p < 0.0001). MCRS was prognostic for biochemical recurrence and added some, albeit non‐significant, prognostic value to clinical risk stratifiers, which could reflect the low number of recurrence events in the cohort.

Conclusion

Biopsy‐based MCRS improves risk stratification over standard clinical and pathological information and optimises patient management after diagnosis of prostate cancer.
The Symbiotic Production of Food and Green Electricity: Consumer Preferences for Food Produced in Agrivoltaic Systems
Authors: Schulze Maureen , Jürkenbeck Kristin
Published: December 2024

In light of the commitment by EU member states to achieve climate neutrality for the European continent by 2050, the expansion of renewable energy sources emerges as a significant challenge of our time. Agrivoltaic systems, which combine the production of renewable energy and food, offer a solution to alleviate the competition for limited land resources. However, scientific insights into whether consumers value food produced in agrivoltaic systems are lacking, so far. Knowledge of consumers' preferences is, however, crucial to successfully commercialize food production within agrivoltaic systems. This study addresses this research gap by conducting a hypothetical choice experiment with a sample of 448 German consumers. It examines consumers' preferences for food produced in agrivoltaic systems, using raspberries as a case study. Results of the random parameter logit (RPL) modeling revealed that consumers are willing to pay a premium for food labeled with information about the production of green electricity. Additionally, information on reduced plastic and water usage of food produced within agrivoltaics systems were also valued, next to domestic and regional production. A latent class segmentation was carried out for the targeted marketing for food produced in agrivoltaic systems. This resulted in four distinct consumer segments that differ according to their preference structure. Targeted recommendations are provided to enhance consumer acceptance and facilitate the diffusion of agrivoltaic systems.
Design and Characterization of Ni(II) and Cu(II) Complexes With Methionine and 1,10‐Phenanthroline: Antibacterial and Anti‐Fungal Properties
Authors: AL‐Ghamdi Saleh
Published: December 2024

This research focused on the design and characterization of two new transition metal complexes, NiMetPhe and CuMetPhe, derived from methionine (Met) and 1,10‐phenanthroline (Phe), coordinated with Ni(II) and Cu(II) ions, respectively. Structural elucidation through analytical techniques, conductivity, elemental analysis, FTIR spectra, electronic spectra, magnetic moment, mass spectra, and thermal degradation, confirmed their octahedral geometries with the formulas [Ni(Met)(Phe)(Cl)(H₂O)] and [Cu(Met)(Phe)(Cl)(H₂O)]. Thermal analysis revealed their stability and decomposition patterns, whereas density functional theory (DFT) calculations validated the structures and provided insights into quantum chemical parameters, such as highest occupied molecular orbital–lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO‐LUMO) energies, molecular orbitals, and electronic distributions. In vitro antibacterial and anti‐fungal assays showed significantly enhanced bioactivity for both complexes compared to the free ligands, indicating that metal coordination boosts biological efficacy. Molecular docking studies targeting the Escherichia coli FabH–CoA complex (PDB ID: 1HNJ), a key enzyme in fatty acid biosynthesis, revealed strong binding affinities, interaction energies, and involvement of critical amino acid residues. These findings highlight NiMetPhe and CuMetPhe as promising candidates for antimicrobial therapies, particularly against resistant strains, underscoring their potential for future medical applications.
Unraveling the Molecular Basis for G‐Quadruplex‐Binders to ALS/FTD‐Associated G4C2 Repeats of the C9orf72 Gene
Authors: D'Anna Luisa , Wragg Darren , Mauro Daniela , Rubino Simona , Terenzi Alessio , Barone Giampaolo , Thomas Sophie R. , Casini Angela , Bonsignore Riccardo , Spinello Angelo
Published: December 2024

The most recurrent familial cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the presence of an abnormal number of intronic GGGGCC (G4C2) repetitions in the C9orf72 gene, which has been proposed to drive ALS/FTD pathogenesis. Recently, it has been shown that such G4C2 repetitions can fold into G‐quadruplex (G4) secondary structures. These G4s have been selectively stabilized by small‐molecule binders, furnishing proof‐of‐principle that targeting these non‐canonical nucleic acid sequences represents a novel and effective therapeutic strategy to tackle neurodegenerative disorders. However, precise information on the mechanism of action of these compounds is still lacking. Here, by performing in silico investigations, we unraveled the molecular basis for the selectivity of a series of known structurally related C9orf72 G4‐binders. Moreover, we investigated the binding properties of a strong and selective metal‐based G4 stabilizer, the AuI bis‐N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complex – Au(TMX)2 – showing that it moderately stabilizes G4C2 G4 RNA by Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) DNA melting assays. Using metadynamics (metaD) simulations, the Au(TMX)2 binding mode and the associated free‐energy landscape were also evaluated. This information paves the way for developing improved compounds to tackle ALS/FTD neurodegenerative disorders.
Abnormal Breast Temperature and Cortical Enlargement of the Axillary Lymph Nodes Through the Thermography
Authors: Renero‐C Francisco‐J , Martínez‐Azmitia Tania‐Cristell
Published: December 2024

Breast thermography may be used for the early detection of breast diseases in women younger than 50 years. Performed breast thermography on a woman in her 20s, revealing an average temperature difference of about 1°C. Ultrasound imaging further identified a simple cyst and enlarged, vascularized lymph nodes in both axillae.
Rare Association of Dermatitis Herpetiformis and Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: Chekairi Fatima Ezzahraa , Hali Fouzia , Chraibi Zineb , Hliwa Wafaa , Chiheb Soumiya
Published: December 2024

Dermatologists should consider investigating for coexisting autoimmune conditions such as dermatitis herpetiformis and/or coeliac disease, in patients with psoriasis presenting clinical signs and symptoms, in order to ensure an accurate diagnosis and improve patients' long‐term management.
Monitoring a Coffee Roasting Process Based on Near‐Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy Coupled With Chemometrics
Authors: Munyendo Leah , Schuster Katharina , Armbruster Wolfgang , Babor Majharulislam , Njoroge Daniel , Zhang Yanyan , von Wrochem Almut , Schaum Alexander , Hitzmann Bernd
Published: December 2024

Roasting is a fundamental step in coffee processing, where complex reactions form chemical compounds related to the coffee flavor and its health‐beneficial effects. These reactions occur on various time scales depending on the roasting conditions. To monitor the process and ensure reproducibility, the study proposes simple and fast techniques based on spectroscopy. This work uses analytical tools based on near‐infrared (NIR) and Raman spectroscopy to monitor the coffee roasting process by predicting chemical changes in coffee beans during roasting. Green coffee beans of Robusta and Arabica species were roasted at 240°C for different roasting times. The spectra of the samples were taken using the spectrometers and modeled by the k‐nearest neighbor regression (KNR), partial least squares regression (PLSR), and multiple linear regression (MLR) to predict concentrations from the spectral data sets. For NIR spectra, all the models provided satisfactory results for the prediction of chlorogenic acid, trigonelline, and DPPH radical scavenging activity with low relative root mean square error of prediction (pRMSEP < 9.649%) and high coefficient of determination (R2 > 0.915). The predictions for ABTS radical scavenging activity were reasonably good. On the contrary, the models poorly predicted the caffeine and total phenolic content (TPC). Similarly, all the models based on the Raman spectra provided good prediction accuracies for monitoring the dynamics of chlorogenic acid, trigonelline, and DPPH radical scavenging activity (pRMSEP < 7.849% and R2 > 0.944). The results for ABTS radical scavenging activity, caffeine, and TPC were similar to those of NIR spectra. These findings demonstrate the potential of Raman and NIR spectroscopy methods in tracking chemical changes in coffee during roasting. By doing so, it may be possible to control the quality of coffee in terms of its aroma, flavor, and roast level.
Highly stabilized and selective ammonia electro‐oxidation over CuNi metallic glass nanoarray
Authors: Tian Yunrui , Chen Rui , Liu Xiaoqing , Mao Zixian , Tan Haotian , Yang De'an , Hou Feng , Liu Xiaoguang , Yin Lichang , Yan Xiao , Liang Ji
Published: December 2024

Electrochemical nitrogen looping represents a promising carbon‐free and sustainable solution for the energy transition, in which electrochemical ammonia oxidation stays at the central position. However, the various nitrogen‐containing intermediates tend to poison and corrode the electrocatalysts, even the state‐of‐the‐art noble‐metal ones, which is worsened at a high applied potential. Herein, we present an ultrarapid laser quenching strategy for constructing a corrosion‐resistant and nanostructured CuNi alloy metallic glass electrocatalyst. In this material, single‐atom Cu species are firmly bonded with the surrounding Ni atoms, endowing exceptional resistance against ammonia corrosion relative of conventional CuNi alloys. Remarkably, a record‐high durability for over 300 h is achieved. Ultrarapid quenching also allows a much higher Cu content than typical single‐atom alloys, simultaneously yielding a high rate and selectivity for ammonia oxidation reaction (AOR). Consequently, an outstanding ammonia conversion rate of up to 95% is achieved with 91.8% selectivity toward nitrite after 8 h. Theoretical simulations reveal that the structural amorphization of CuNi alloy could effectively modify the electronic configuration and reaction pathway, generating stable single‐atom Cu active sites with low kinetic barriers for AOR. This ultrarapid laser quenching strategy thus provides a new avenue for constructing metallic glasses with well‐defined nanostructures, presenting feasible opportunities for performance enhancement for AOR and other electrocatalytic processes.
Sn(IV) Complexes of 5,10,15,20‐Tetraaryl‐5,15‐diazaporphyrinoids: A Promising Platform for Evaluating the 20π‐Electron Antiaromaticity
Authors: Suzuki Hiroya , Minoura Mao , Furukawa Ko , Nakano Haruyuki , Matano Yoshihiro
Published: December 2024

Porphyrinoids in the 20π‐electron state have been extensively studied from the fundamental viewpoint of investigating their structure–antiaromaticity relationships. However, most of the 20π porphyrinoids are highly distorted and unstable in air, which hinder the comprehensive analysis of paratropic ring‐current effects derived from planar π‐electron systems. Herein, we present the first examples of antiaromatic Sn(IV) complexes of 5,10,15,20‐tetraaryl‐5,15‐diazaporphyrinoids (SnX2TADAPs), prepared by the complexation of the corresponding freebases with Sn(II) chloride under aerobic conditions and subsequent metathesis of the axial ligands, that show paratropic ring‐current effects. Notably, both neutral 20π‐electron derivatives and 19π‐electron radical cations of SnX2TADAP are extremely stable in air owing to the intrinsic electronic effects of the central Sn(IV) unit and meso nitrogen atoms. NMR spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and density functional theory calculations were performed to assess the ring‐current effects and orbital energies of a series of the 20π‐electron SnX2TADAPs, and the results reveal that the paratropic ring‐current effects arising from the planar 20π‐electron DAP ring increases with a decrease in the HOMO–LUMO energy gap.