bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
17.2% Efficiency for Completely Non‐Fused Acceptor Organic Solar Cells Via Re‐Intermixing Strategy in D/A Stratified Active Layer
Authors: Xie Xiyun , Ma Ruijie , Zhang Sen , Dela Peña Top Archie , Luo Yongmin , Huang Zixuan , Jia Tao , Wu Jiaying , Fan Qunping , Ma Wei , Kyaw Aung Ko Ko , Li Gang
Published: September 2024

Pursuing power conversion efficiency (PCE) is the priority of developing organic solar cells (OSCs) based on low‐cost completely non‐fused ring acceptors. Herein, a donor/acceptor re‐intermixing strategy to enhance the photon capturing process, based on a previously established well‐stratified active layer morphology is reported. By adding 20 wt% PTQ10 (polymer donor) into the acceptor's precursor, the device PCE is increased to 16.03% from 15.11% of the D18/A4T‐16 control system, which is attributed to the additional charge generation interface and suppressed bimolecular recombination. On the contrary, using the equal ratio of PM6 leads to significant efficiency loss, indicating the importance of considering vertical distribution from the perspective of thermodynamics. Moreover, a cutting‐edge level of 17.21% efficiency for completely non‐fused ring acceptor systems is realized by altering the active layer to PBQx‐TF/TBT‐26 and PTQ11, via the identical processing strategy. This work thus presents attractive device engineering and solar cell performance, as well as in‐depth vertical morphology understanding.
Peptide Drones Facilitating the Transdermal Delivery of Antitumor Proteins for Melanoma Treatment
Authors: Kim Hyunji , Kim Suin , Lee Guewha , Kim Ji‐eun , Jeong Woo‐jin
Published: September 2024

Topical treatment offers a viable alternative for melanoma patients incompatible with surgical interventions. Herein, the study develops a skin‐penetrating peptide (SPP)‐based peptide drone (PD) for the transdermal delivery of antitumor proteins. To achieve cost‐effective therapeutics, Concanavalin A (ConA), which can be prepared through an extraction method, is loaded onto PDs. Compared with free proteins, ConA‐PD complexes (CPCs) demonstrate significantly greater skin permeation. Moreover, the CPCs exhibit potent anticancer activity both in vitro and in vivo, which substantially surpass the efficacy of the Aldara (imiquimod) cream. The CPC‐treated mouse skin remains clear, whereas Aldara cream induces side effects, including psoriasis‐like skin inflammation. The antimetastatic activity of the PD is identified as another advantage of CPC. The use of ConA as an anticancer agent has been significantly limited due to its high hepatotoxicity; however, the transdermal delivery strategy minimizes its hepatic absorption and, in turn, results in negligible hepatotoxicity. These results demonstrate the potential of the CPC as a novel therapeutic agent or an adjunct to other modalities for melanoma treatment, overcoming the limitations of existing materials while exhibiting superior efficacy.
Heart Trabeculae‐Inspired Superhydrophilic Electrode for Electric‐Assisted Uranium Extraction from Seawater
Authors: Li Tingyang , Yan Zidi , Chen Shusen , Song Yan , Lin Xiangbin , Zhang Zhehua , Yang Linsen , He Xiaofeng , Qian Yongchao , Zhou Shengyang , Li Xin , Wang Qingchen , Kong Xiang‐Yu , Jiang Lei , Wen Liping
Published: September 2024

Using nuclear power to replace electricity generated from fossil fuels is an effective strategy to reduce global carbon dioxide emissions and also spurs the search for new sources of nuclear fuel. Extracting uranium from seawater has a significant reserve advantage, although its ultralow concentration presents substantial challenges. Here, inspired by the fractal structure of cardiac trabeculae on the inner surface of the heart, a uranium enrichment electrode with a superhydrophilic and uranium‐affinitive fractal surface is developed. This innovative design enhances rapid charge/ion transfer, ensures complete surface wetting, and provides numerous adsorption sites. By synergistically integrating the advantages of electric‐assisted processes and bioinspired microstructures predicated on chemical coordination principles, the electrode demonstrates a uranium adsorption capacity of 13.2 mg g−1 following a 7‐d exposure to natural seawater. This research not only demonstrates an effective strategy for the development of advanced uranium enrichment electrodes but also provides more possibilities for innovative approaches in sustainable energy technology.
Flexible Memristor Based on Lead‐Free Cs2AgBiBr6 Perovskite for Artificial Nociceptors and Information Security
Authors: Tang Jie , Pan Xiaoxin , Chen Xiang , Jiang Bowen , Li Xiaoqing , Pan Jie , Qu Haohan , Huang Zhijia , Wang Peixiong , Duan Jinxia , Ma Guokun , Wan Houzhao , Tao Li , Zhang Jun , Wang Hao
Published: September 2024

The emergence of the artificial intelligence urgently requires novel devices to handle massive data and bionic simulations. As one of new generation memory devices, memristor has great potential in information storage and brain‐like learning due to its merits, such as low energy consumption, high speed and etc. In addition, the randomness for the generation and breakage of the conducting filaments in the memristor can generate the true random numbers and realize the image encryption. In this work, the ITO/Cs2AgBiBr6/Al based devices exhibit prominent resistance variation characteristics and long‐term environmental stability (≥6 months). Additionally, the flexible PET/ITO/Cs2AgBiBr6/Al devices are assembled and measured resistance variation properties, which are adopt to realize the cryptographic processing of image information. The synaptic plasticity of the memristor is also verified, including paired pulse facilitation and spiking timing‐dependent plasticity. Finally, nociceptive responses are also simulated with the memristor via imposing different voltage. Nociceptive characteristics including “threshold,” “relaxation,” and “sensitization” have been successfully determined. The work provides possibility for lead‐free flexible perovskite memristors in information security and biomimicry.
In Situ Synthesized HOF Ion Rectification Membrane with Ultrahigh Permselectivity for Nanofluidic Osmotic Energy Harvesting
Authors: Wang Huijie , Zhang Yao , Wang Jin , Saijilahu  , Sun Hanjun , Yang Huajun , Xia Xing‐Hua , Wang Chen
Published: September 2024

The utilization of salt concentration gradients as a renewable energy source represents a pivotal solution to the energy crisis. However, it is a persistent challenge to fabricate high‐performance ion permeable membranes with excellent ion permselectivity. In this work, hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) is in situ growth on anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) via chemical‐binding and solution‐processing strategy. The hydrogen bonding and π–π interactions forming the porous structure and the internal unprotonated carboxyl groups endow the HOF with superior cation selectivity and ion permeability. Furthermore, benefiting from the remarkable asymmetry of the prepared nanofluidic membrane arising from structure and charge of AAO and HOF, the HOF/AAO presents outstanding ion current rectification (ICR) characteristic, which can eliminate the ion concentration polarization (ICP) and power loss. Therefore, an impressive output power density with 500‐fold NaCl gradient is achieved as 75.2 W m−2 using the as‐prepared HOF/AAO, which is superior to most of reported membranes (7.0–40.0 W m−2). To show the critical role of HOF, 2D and 3D MOF with the same monomers are also synthesized, achieving decreased power densities of 36.2 and 58.3 W m−2 respectively. The present work provides a novel strategy to develop high‐performance nanofluidic ICR membranes for osmotic energy harvesting.
A‐D‐A‐type Molecule with Dual Functions of Efficient Charge Extraction and Trap Passivation for n‐i‐p Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Cao Xinyue , Wu Jie , Yang Daobin , Guan Haowei , Liao Xiaochun , Ding Pengfei , Yu Xueliang , Yan Xingzheng , Sun He , Ge Ziyi
Published: September 2024

Interfacial defects and energy level mismatches between the perovskite and 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis[N,N‐di(4‐methoxyphenyl)amino]‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene (Spiro‐OMeTAD) layers heavily hinder charge transfer, limiting the efficiency and stability of n‐i‐p perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, D‐type TPA, D‐A‐type TPA‐CN, and A‐D‐A‐type DTPA‐CN with triphenylamine units and different interfacial dipoles are designed as multifunctional interfacial layers for n‐i‐p PSCs. Among the three molecules, A‐D‐A‐type DTPA‐CN has the largest dipole moment, hole transporting capability, and hydrophobicity, and therefore the strongest passivation of interfacial defects and the best carrier extraction efficiency can be observed. As a result, the DTPA‐CN‐treated device achieves a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.00%, as compared to the control device (22.78%). Moreover, the long‐term stability of the unencapsulated device is significantly improved. After 2,040 h of storage in a nitrogen glove box, the device maintains over 90% of its initial efficiency, while only 61% for the control device. The work indicates that simultaneous improvement of trap passivation and hole extraction is critical for achieving highly efficient and stable n‐i‐p PSCs.
Donor‐Acceptor‐Donor Organic Small Molecules as Hole Transfer Vehicle Covalently Coupled Znln2S4 Nanosheets for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Xiao Taizhong , Wang Lei , Li Kui , Tang Junfu , Du Rongkai , Rao Shidan , Wu Mingmei
Published: September 2024

Sluggish kinetics of photoexcited charge carriers in photocatalysts, slow hole transfer in oxidation half‐reaction, and consequent fast charge recombination on photocatalyst surface are the Achilles' heel limiting the efficiency of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE). Herein, the effectiveness of covalent binding alternating D‐A‐D organic small molecules (triphenylamine as the donor unit and benzothiadiazole as the acceptor unit) to Znln2S4 (ZIS) nanosheets in the design and development of highly efficient PHE photocatalysts is demonstrated. The covalent grafting of D‐A‐D molecules broadens the photo‐responsive range of ZIS nanosheets, significantly increasing the density of photogenerated charge carriers. More importantly, D‐A‐D organic small molecules can efficiently extract surface photogenerated holes and suppress the recombination of surface photogenerated electron‐hole pairs, thus facilitating the rapid consumption of retained photogenerated electrons for proton reduction to generate H2 with fast kinetics. Consequently, the optimized PHE rate of the ZIS@DAD hybrid catalyst reaches 28.25 mmol g−1 h−1, a 4.2‐fold improvement over that of ZnIn2S4 nanosheets. The covalent integration of D‐A‐D molecules onto inorganic semiconductor photocatalysts represents a novel and highly efficient strategy for optimizing the overall PHE process. This approach provides a fertile new ground for creating efficient solar‐to‐hydrogen systems.
Layered 3d Transition Metal‐Based Oxides for Sodium‐Ion and Lithium‐Ion Batteries: Differences, Links and Beyond
Authors: Shi Yuansheng , Hu Erhai , Sumboja Afriyanti , Anggraningrum Ivandini T. , Syahrial Anne Zulfia , Yan Qingyu
Published: September 2024

Due to their stable crystal framework, promising energy density, and structural versatility, layered 3d transition metal oxides have emerged as the preferred cathodes for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). While extensive research has individually addressed the lithium and sodium 3d transition metal layered oxides, the differences and interconnections between the two types of materials have largely been overlooked. Effectively utilizing these summaries is essential for driving innovative structural designs and inspiring new insights into the structure‐property relationships. This review comprehensively bridges this gap by meticulously examining the disparities and links in the behavior of the layered oxides upon Li+ and Na+ storage and transfer. Key aspects, including atomic and electronic structure, phase transition mechanisms, charge compensation mechanisms and electrochemical kinetics, are carefully summarized. The implications of these aspects on the battery cycle life, energy density, and rate capability are thoroughly discussed. Additionally, by leveraging the unique characteristics of each oxide structure, this review explores the interconnection between lithium and sodium layered oxides in depth. Finally, a concise perspective on future targets and direction of 3d layered oxides is deduced and proposed.
Solvent‐Induced Copper Vacancy in CuSCN Layer: A Strategy to Boost Conductivity and Optimize Energy Levels for Efficient Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Niu Hongshuo , Xiao Chengyi , Xu Jianing , Xie Chengcheng , Duan Meng , Bu Zhonggao , Li Weiwei
Published: September 2024

Copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) is a prominent wide‐bandgap p‐type semiconductor with desirable transparency and chemical robustness. Whereas intrinsic limitations, such as its relatively low Fermi level (EF) and modest electrical conductivity, have impeded its broader application in organic solar cells (OSCs). This study introduces a novel approach to modify the electronic properties of CuSCN by inducing copper vacancies through the use of specific solvent mixtures, thereby enhancing its suitability for OSCs. The effects of two solvent mixtures, methanol/ammonia (CH3OH/NH4OH) and dimethyl sulfoxide/N,N‐Dimethylformamide (DMSO/DMF) is have systematically investigated, on the CuSCN layer. The findings reveal that these solvent systems induce a higher concentration of copper vacancies within the CuSCN film, resulting in a significant reduction of the EF and a substantial increase in electrical conductivity. These modifications have led to the improved energy level alignment with the PM6:L8‐BO:BTP‐eC9 blended photoactive layers, culminating in a marked enhancement of the power‐conversion efficiencies of 19.10% for the DMSO/DMF processed CuSCN layer. Additionally, it has observed enhanced shelf/thermal stability and thickness tolerance of OSCs based on these CuSCN films. This work not only presents a novel strategy for modifying the performance characteristics of CuSCN but also underscores its potential to contribute to the advancement of photovoltaic technologies.
Thermally Robust Aramid Triboelectric Materials Enabled by Heat‐Induced Cross‐Linking
Authors: Wang Zhiwei , Wu Di , Chi Mingchao , Zou Xuelian , Wang Jinlong , Zhao Tong , Zhang Huiya , Zhu Yunpeng , Jiang Keyang , Meng Fanzhen , Wang Shuangfei , Nie Shuangxi
Published: September 2024

The rapid development of the Internet of Things has led to numerous functional electronic devices, making it a significant challenge to provide power for these distributed devices. Triboelectric self‐power technology is ideal for smart devices due to its material diversity and high energy efficiency. However, traditional triboelectric materials have weak electrostatic induction due to their low dielectric constant. Additionally, the thermionic emission effect reduces their electric output in high temperatures, limiting their applications. This study designes a thermally robust aramid triboelectric material with a high dielectric constant through heat‐induced cross‐linking heterogeneous interface engineering. This novel material not only achieves high triboelectric output but also maintains high performance across a wide temperature range. The heat‐induced cross‐linking process enhances the interaction between aramid nanofibers and Al2O3 nanosheets, significantly improving the electrical performance, and flame retardance of the material, and the relative dielectric constant increases 16‐fold. The triboelectric nanogenerator constructed with this material achieves a power density of 3.97 W m−2, and maintains high triboelectric output at 260 °C. Finally, a self‐powered detection system collects high‐temperature gas energy and drives sensors is designed. This research presents a novel strategy for high‐performance triboelectric materials, showing significant potential for self‐powered devices.
Benefits of In Situ Foamed and Printed Porous Scaffolds in Wound Healing
Authors: Seyedsalehi Amir , Saeedinejad Farnoosh , Toro Steven , Alipanah Fatemeh , Quint Jacob , Schmidt Tannin A. , Samandari Mohamadmahdi , Tamayol Ali
Published: September 2024

Macroporous hydrogels have shown significant promise in biomedical applications, particularly regenerative medicine, due to their enhanced nutrient and waste permeability, improved cell permissibility, and minimal immunogenicity. However, traditional methods of generating porous hydrogels require secondary post‐processing steps or harmful reagents making simultaneous fabrication with bioactive factors and cells impossible. Therefore, a handheld printer is engineered for facile and continuous generation and deposition of hydrogel foams directly within the skin defect to form defect‐specific macroporous scaffolds. Within the handheld system, a temperature‐controlled microfluidic homogenizer is coupled with miniaturized liquid and air pumps to mix sterile air with gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) at the desired ratio. An integrated photocrosslinking unit is then utilized to crosslink the printed foam in situ to form scaffolds with controlled porosity. The system is optimized to form reliable and uniform GelMA foams. The resulting foam scaffolds demonstrate mechanical properties with excellent flexibility making them suitable for wound healing applications. The results of in vitro cell culture on the scaffolds demonstrate significantly increased cellular activity compared to the solid hydrogel. The in vivo printed foam scaffolds enhanced the rate and quality of wound healing in mice with full‐thickness wound without the use of biological materials.
Responsive Soft Interface Liquid Crystal Microfluidics
Authors: Özşahin Ayşe Nurcan , Bukusoglu Emre
Published: September 2024

The multifunctional responsive interfaces of liquid crystal (LC) and water are employed in fundamental research (colloidal assembly) and promising applications (sensing, release, and material synthesis). The stagnant LC systems, however, limit their use in continuous, automated applications. A microfluidic platform is reported where stable LC flow is maintained between aqueous interfaces. The LC‐water soft interface is defined by the preferential wetting of the two phases at the chemically heterogeneous microchannel interfaces. It is shown that the LC‐water interfaces are stable up to significant pressure differences across the interfaces and maintain responsive characteristics. The stability is in a range to cover the perpendicular and flow‐aligned regimes at low and high flow velocities, respectively, in co‐current or counter‐current flow configurations. The LC configuration at the vicinity of the aqueous interfaces is influenced by the shear induced by the bulk LC flow and by the contacting aqueous phases allowing modulation of the LC strain at the responsive interfaces. The simplicity of the construction and operation of the soft‐interface LC flow platform shows promise and meets the fundamental requirements for their integration into next‐generation autonomous platforms.
Plasma Polymerization of Vegetable Oils onto Paper Substrates of Varying Porosity for Improved Hydrophobicity
Authors: Loesch‐Zhang Amelia , Bellmann Martin , Lachmann Kristina , Biesalski Markus , Geissler Andreas
Published: September 2024

Paper finishing, in particular, coating paper with desired barrier functions is well‐developed as of today. However, due to large amounts of material and process energy as well as the use of non‐renewable resources for such coatings, common technologies are not sustainable. Given the increasing importance of paper in manifold applications, more sustainable routes with low‐energy processes as well as biogenic material alternatives are highly needed. To address this challenge, a solvent‐free and material‐efficient approach is proposed to bio‐based paper coatings by depositing chia oil‐based plasma polymers using a jet‐induced sliding discharge concept at atmospheric pressure. Depending on the amount of coating and the paper porosity, this treatment retards water absorption. Coating visualization is enabled through confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Like chia oil, safflower oil, and olive oil show the ability to hydrophobize paper and the great potential within plasma polymerized vegetable oils to make the paper coating more sustainable.
Omniphobic Photoresist‐Assisted Patterning of Porous Polymethacrylate Films
Authors: Kartsev Dmitrii D. , Lukianov Ilia M. , Sharapenkov Eduard G. , Prilepskii Artur Yu. , Levkin Pavel A.
Published: September 2024

Patterning of various surface properties, including roughness, wettability, adhesiveness, and mechanical properties, can markedly enhance the functionality of test systems. Thus, porous polymethacrylates prepared by polymerization‐induced phase separation (PIPS) represent a promising class of functional materials for the construction of miniaturized test systems. Different porosity, surface chemistry, and wettability are achieved in porous polymethacrylates with different precursor compositions. Nevertheless, only wettability microstructuring has been highlighted for these materials thus far. Here, the study presents a novel method for the direct and selective deposition of porous polymethacrylate films with different surface chemistry and porosity. The selective adhesion of omniphobic–omniphilic wettability patterns is used to facilitate the polymer pattern formation. The feasibility of patterning with different monomers and porogenic solvents is demonstrated. The topological study confirms the selective application of polymer structures with different thickness and roughness. The wettability characterization of the omniphobic material shows no significant changes caused by the operations performed. Thus, a new pattern with a greater difference in the wettability of the areas is produced in the process. Discontinuous dewetting of different liquids is performed. The use of poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate) (HEMA‐EDMA) modified patterns for precise living cell patterning is also demonstrated.
Preparation of a Plasma‐Induced Dendritic Cell Vaccine and its Anti‐Tumor Immunity in a Murine Model of Melanoma
Authors: Wang Xiangni , Liu Jinren , Wang Xiying , Lu Jiajia , Xu Guimin , Cui Yixin , He Zhirou , Xu Yulin , Shi Xingmin , Zhang Guanjun
Published: September 2024

Dendritic cell (DC) vaccines play an important role in anti‐tumor immunotherapy. Tumor‐associated cells or cytokines in the tumor microenvironment (TME) can inhibit the antigen‐presenting function of DC. Immunogenic cell death (ICD) can enhance the uptake and presentation of tumor antigens by DC. This study investigates the maturation mechanism of DC induced by low‐temperature plasma (LTP), as well as the therapeutic and protective effects of LTP‐induced DC vaccine in a tumor model. DC2.4 that is co‐cultured with LTP‐treated B16F10 (LTP‐B16) or with these supernatants exhibited decreased phagocytic activity, increased production of cytokines (IL‐12, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β), and increased expression of cell surface activation markers (CD80, CD86, and MHC II). The expression of CD80+/CD86+ is decreased after pre‐treatment with TLR4 and NF‐κB (p65) inhibitors, respectively. In vivo, trials indicated that the LTP‐induced DC vaccine‐induced anti‐tumor immunity and, when combined with cisplatin, synergistically reduced tumor growth.
Enhanced Targeted Drug Delivery for Scar Prevention: Clathrin‐Coated Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Model Drug Encapsulation
Authors: Jonidi Shariatzadeh Farinaz , Yathindranath Vinith , Liu Yang , Miller Donald W. , Lin Francis , Logsetty Sarvesh , Liu Song
Published: September 2024

Excessive scar formation is a major complication of wound healing. Premature release of anti‐scarring drugs can negatively impact healing. This study aims to develop a targeted delivery system for the controlled release of anti‐scarring drugs during the scar formation stage. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) coated with Clathrin, a cage‐like protein, to prevent premature drug release is developed. Insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) is conjugated to the SLNs for targeted delivery via its affinity for connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a protein overexpressed during scar formation. The IGF‐Clathrin‐SLNs exhibited a size of 300 ± 20 nm and a zeta potential of 9.23 ± 0.4 mV. In vitro studies demonstrated sustained release of the encapsulated drug‐ kynurenic acid; less than 10% of kynurenic acid is released within three days, while over 50% is released within 10 h upon Clathrin removal using a surfactant at pH 8. Cellular uptake studies confirmed targeting efficacy. Fibroblasts with low CTGF expression displayed low uptake (<10%), whereas MCF7 cells with high CTGF expression showed significantly higher uptake (80%). This work demonstrates a promising targeted delivery platform for the controlled release of anti‐scarring drugs during scar formation.
Microgel Encapsulated Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Releasing Wnt16 to Synergistically Treat Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhu Yan , Cao Lingyan , Yuan Mu , Chen Xuzhuo , Xie Xinru , Li Minhan , Yang Chi , Wang Xiansong , Ma Zhigui
Published: September 2024

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA) is a commonly encountered degenerative joint disease in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Recent studies have shown that the excessive unbalanced activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is connected with the pathogenesis of TMJOA and due to the inability to inhibit the over‐activated Wnt pathway, while Wnt16‐deficient mice has a more severe Knee OA. However, the efficacy of direct intra‐TMJ injection of Wnt16 for the relief of TMJOA is still not directly confirmed. Moreover, small‐molecule drugs such as Wnt16 usually exhibit short‐lived efficacy and poor treatment adherence. Therefore, in order to obtain a stable release of Wnt16 both in the short and long term, this study fabricates a double‐layer slow‐release Wnt16 carrier based on mesoporous silica nanospheres (MSNs) encased within hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels. The biofunctional hydrogel HA/Wnt16@MSN is analyzed both in vitro and in vivo to evaluate the treatment of TMJOA. As a result, it shows superior pro‐cartilage matrix restoration and inhibition of osteoclastogenesis ability, and effectively inhibits the over‐activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Taken together, biofunctional hydrogel HA/Wnt16@MSN is a promising candidate for the treatment of TMJOA.
Ultrasound‐Responsive HBD Peptide Hydrogel with Antibiofilm Capability for Fast Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Zong Lanlan , Teng Runxin , Zhang Huiqi , Liu Wenshang , Feng Yu , Lu Zhengmao , Zhou Yuxiao , Fan Zhen , Li Meng , Pu Xiaohui
Published: September 2024

Despite advancements in therapeutic agents for diabetic chronic wounds, challenges such as suboptimal bioavailability, intricate disease milieus, and inadequate delivery efficacy have impeded treatment outcomes. Here, ultrasound‐responsive hydrogel incorporated with heparin‐binding domain (HBD) peptide nanoparticles is developed to promote diabetic wound healing. HBD peptide, derived from von Willebrand Factor with angiogenic activity, are first engineered to self‐assemble into nanoparticles with enhanced biostability and bioavailability. Ultrasound responsive cargo release and hydrogel collapses are first verified through breakage of crosslinking. In addition, desired antioxidant and antibacterial activity of such hydrogel is observed. Moreover, the degradation of hydrogel under ultrasound stimulation into smaller fragments facilitated the deeper wound penetration of ≈400 µm depth. Complete wound closure is observed from diabetic mice with chronic wounds after being treated with the proposed hydrogel. In detail, in vivo studies revealed that hydrogels loaded with HBD peptide nanoparticles increased the levels of angiogenesis‐related growth factors (VEGF‐A, CD31, and α‐SMA) to effectively accelerate wound repair. Overall, this study demonstrates that ultrasound‐responsive HBD peptide hydrogel provides a synergistic therapeutic strategy for external biofilm elimination and internal effective delivery for diabetic wounds with biofilm infection.
Enhanced Electro‐Resistance and Tunable Asymmetric Depolarization Behavior in Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Ferroelectric Tunnel Junction by Bottom Oxide Interfacial Layer
Authors: Lyu Shuxian , Long Xiao , Yang Yang , Wei Wei , Chen Yuanxiang , Xie Hong , Nie Bowen , Wang Boping , Wang Yuan , Jiang Pengfei , Gong Tiancheng , Wang Yan , Luo Qing
Published: September 2024

Electro‐resistance (ER) plays a crucial role in the application of hafnia‐based ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJs), pivotal devices widely acknowledge for their potential in non‐volatile memory and neuromorphic networks. Leveraging atomic layer deposition (ALD) enhances the flexibility in fabricating bilayer FTJs by combining a ferroelectric layer with another oxide layer. Introducing additional layers is necessary to achieve a sufficient storage window for implementing intriguing functions, albeit at the risk of increased depolarization field strength. Hence, selecting a suitable inserted layer becomes paramount. In this study, a novel strategy to enhance the performance of Ge‐based Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 FTJs is presented by incorporating bottom interfacial layers (ILs) with distinct band energy characteristics. The optimized FTJs exhibit significantly improved endurance, lower coercive voltage, and enhanced retention properties. Notably, an intriguing asymmetric retention behavior driven by the imprint field (Eimp) is observed, which can be mitigated by integrating TiO2 ILs. Most importantly, an effective method to manipulate depolarization behavior in hafnia‐based devices through ILs is introduced, leading to enhanced non‐volatility and synaptic behavior in FTJs.
Na (100)‐Textured Electrode Embedded with Sb‐Doped SnO2 Nanoparticles for Dendrite‐Free Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Li Zhaopeng , Miao Licheng , Lin Guangliang , Tian Wenyue , Yuan Shaohui , Si Yuchang , Wang Qinglun , Jiao Lifang
Published: September 2024

Sodium metal batteries (SMBs), the next‐generation advanced secondary batteries, have attracted extensive attention due to their low cost and high energy density. However, the unavoidable interfacial side reactions and uncontrollable dendrite growth severely restrict their practical application. In this work, a Na (100)‐textured composite anode embedded with antimony‐doped tin oxide (ATO) nanoparticles (ATO‐12Na) is innovatively designed via an accumulative roll bonding technique. It is observed that the Na (100) texture not only contributes to the formation of anion‐derived inorganic‐rich solid electrolyte interphase layer on the surface of ATO‐12Na composite anode but also efficiently induces the uniform and horizontal Na deposition during the pre‐deposition stage. Profiting from the intrinsic Na affinity of Na (100) texture and the high sodiophilicity of ATO active sites, the integrated composite anode exhibits enhanced interfacial compatibility and excellent Na plating/stripping stability. At 2 mA cm−2, the ATO‐12Na symmetric cell can operate steadily for more than 1400 h. The full cell assembled by ATO‐12Na anode and Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode delivers impressive long‐term cycling stability over 4500 cycles at 500 mA g−1 with a high capacity retention of 80.7%. This study offers a new approach to designing ultra‐stable, dendrite‐free, and high‐performance SMBs.
Cation Adsorption Engineering Enables Dual Stabilizations for Fast‐Charging Zn─I2 Batteries
Authors: Liao Xiaoqiao , Zhu Zhe , Liao Yaqi , Fu Kai , Duan Yixue , Lv Linfeng , Wu Leixin , Wang Wenwu , He Xin , Yang Kai , Tian Peng , Cai Wenlong , Zhao Chuan , Tang Hui , He Liang
Published: September 2024

Aqueous zinc‐iodine (Zn─I2) battery is a promising energy storage system due to its inherent safety, high theoretical capacity, sustainability, and cost‐effectiveness. However, the shuttle effect of polyiodide severely affects the stable loading of active iodine and even accelerates the corrosion of the Zn anode, thus impeding its further advancement. Herein, a unique trimethylsulfonium cation (TMS+) with strong adsorption is proposed to stabilize both the iodine cathode and Zn anode. Benefiting from the robust interaction between TMS+ and polyiodide, the electrolyte can effectively immobilize large‐capacity iodine in the form of oily precipitate, thus avoiding the shuttle effect of polyiodide and the Zn corrosion. Additionally, TMS+ can be preferentially adsorbed on various Zn facets, inducing an electrostatic shielding effect to inhibit Zn dendrite growth. Consequently, Zn anode can be stably cycled over 3400 h at 5 mA cm−2/5 mAh cm−2, and a large areal capacity of 2.71 mAh cm−2 as well as long‐life stability over 6400 cycles is achieved for Zn─I2 battery. Furthermore, cation adsorption engineering is practically utilized in pouch cells, realizing superior fast‐charging stability over 790 cycles. This electrolyte modification with dual stabilizations is anticipated to be applied to other metal‐iodine batteries as a cost‐effective, facile, and safe strategy.
Modulating Dual Functionalities of Hydrazide Derivatives for Iodide Oxidation Suppression and Defect Passivation in Printable Mesoscopic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Qi Jianhang , Liu Jiale , Ma Yongming , Cheng Yanjie , Chen Kai , Hu Wenjing , Xiang Junwei , Wang Xiaoru , Zhao Jianwei , Zhou Yang , Mei Anyi , Han Hongwei
Published: September 2024

The oxidation of iodide ions during annealing in air and rich defects generated at crystal terminations in perovskite are major limitations for achieving high photovoltaic performance in printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells (p‐MPSCs). Here, the dual role of hydrazide derivatives in inhibiting iodide oxidation and passivating crystal termination defects is reported and how the dual role is affected by the substituent is studied. It's found that varying the hydrazide derivative from formylhydrazine (FH) to benzhydrazide (BH) and then to 4‐tert‐butylbenzhydrazide (TBBH) by introducing phenyl and 4‐tert‐butylphenyl substituents enhances the electron donating ability of hydrazides due to substituent electronic effect. The tailored hydrazides present enhanced iodide oxidation suppression and defect passivation capabilities, which lowers the trap density of perovskite in p‐MPSCs significantly. As the most effective additive, TBBH improves the power conversion efficiency of the p‐MPSC from 18.66% to 20.30%, and the resulted device maintains 90% of its initial efficiency after 500 h tacking at maximum power point at 55 ± 5 °C under simulated 1 sun illumination.
Enhanced Interphase Ion Transport via Charge‐Rich Space Charge Layers for Ultra‐Stable Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Li Jin , Chen Junjie , Xu Xiaosa , Wang Zhenyu , Shen Jiadong , Sun Jing , Huang Baoling , Zhao Tianshou
Published: September 2024

The significant interfacial resistance between solid electrolyte‐electrode interfaces is a major bottleneck for the practical application of solid‐state lithium batteries. This resistance is primarily caused by the formation of space charge layers (SCLs), resulting from the redistribution of ionic carriers at the interface between dissimilar materials with varying chemical potentials, which lead to insufficient carriers and sluggish lithium‐ion transport. In this study, a conjugated structure polymer is constructed through in situ polymerization onto the oxide electrolyte, forming charge‐rich SCLs on the organic/inorganic interface, and enabling the interfacial layer to maintain superior ion transfer and contact. The Li solid NMR spectra and computational study suggest that optimized SCLs offer effective pathways for Li+ conduction in the electrolyte, thereby enhancing the interfacial conduction. Furthermore, the designed electrolyte induces the formation of an inorganic‐rich interphase layer on the lithium anode, enabling rapid lithium‐ion transport and uniform Li deposition. Consequently, the lithium symmetric cell with this electrolyte operates for more than 5100 h, while LiFePO4/Li solid‐state batteries can stably cycle up to 800 times at 5 C. This interfacial modification strategy provides a new perspective for the rational design of the charge‐rich SCLs and advances the understanding of the SCLs inside the electrolyte.
Robotic right‐sided colon cancer surgery: Dissecting the outermost layer of the autonomic nerve along the superior mesenteric artery
Authors: Shida Dai , Ahiko Yuka , Sakuyama Naoki , Monma Satoko , Kojima Shigehiro
Published: September 2024

In right‐sided colon cancer surgery, lymph node dissection around the superior mesenteric artery is necessary but technically challenging. Here we introduce the concept of “outermost layer‐oriented robotic surgery” to improve the safety, efficacy, and reproducibility of superior mesenteric artery nodal dissection. In this procedure, the thin, loose connective tissue layer between the autonomic nerve sheath of the superior mesenteric artery and adipose tissue bearing lymph nodes, termed “the outermost layer of the autonomic nerve,” is dissected. The procedure exposes the outermost layer of the nerve plexus covering the surface of the superior mesenteric artery with a width of approximately 1 cm, enabling direct visualization of the anatomy of the main arteries and, if they exist, jejunal veins which cross the superior mesenteric artery ventrally. This allows for sufficient dissection of main lymph nodes at the roots of the ileocolic artery, right colic artery, and middle colic artery and minimizes the risk of unforeseen bleeding. Thirty‐nine patients underwent robotic right hemicolectomy with this procedure. No intraoperative complications were observed. The median number of dissected lymph nodes was 50, including 16 main lymph nodes. The median operative time was 284 min, blood loss was 50 mL, and the median postoperative hospital stay was 8 days. Postoperative complications included two cases of Clavien–Dindo classification grade II, with no cases of grade III or higher. Chylous leakage as well as intractable diarrhea were not observed in any case. These findings demonstrate that the procedure can achieve safe and reliable lymph node clearance.
Recent Advances on Regioselective C−H Borylation of Indoles
Authors: Guo Yanyan , Wang Meiyu , Liu Guodu
Published: September 2024

Borylated indoles are versatile building blocks for functional molecules, such as pharmaceutical and natural products. However, the C−H borylation regioselectivity of unprotected indoles with seven distinct sites has been a problem for a long time. Among the various synthetic approaches to borylated indoles, transition‐metal‐catalyzed, electrophilic C−H borylation and chelation effect directed C−H borylation are attractive methods because of their powerful ability to rapidly construct various C−H borylation of indoles. In this review, we highlight the developments in the C−H borylation regioselectivity of indole using these methods of C−H borylation over the last 20 years. With a focus on the mechanism of the C−H borylation of indole, further studies and developments of this field would be inspired in the future.
Anion‐Regulated Ionic Covalent Organic Frameworks for Highly Selective Recovery of Gold from E‐Waste
Authors: Zhao Jie , Qiao Zelong , He Yuncheng , Zhang Rui , Li Han , Song Xuezhen , Cao Dapeng , Wang Shitao
Published: September 2024

The existing electronic waste (e‐waste) and leaching solutions generated by industries accumulate significant amounts of gold (Au), even in excess of those in natural minerals. Therefore, the recycling of Au is extremely significant for the potential sustainability of chemical industry. By designing ionic covalent organic frameworks (COFs), here we synthesize a series of Ionic‐COF‐X (X=Cl−, Br−, AcO−, and SO42−) by anion regulation strategy and further explore their adsorption performance towards Au recovery. All these ionic COFs exhibit ultrahigh gold adsorption efficiency and excellent regeneration. Moreover, anion regulation could indeed affect the Au capture performance. In particular, when Cl− ions serve as counter ions, the Au capacity of Ionic‐COF‐Cl could reach 1270.8 mg g−1. Moreover, in the actual CPU leaching solution test, the selectivity of Ionic‐COF‐Cl towards Au3+ ion hits 39000 and 4600 times higher than that of Cu2+ and Ni2+ ions, respectively, suggesting that the Ionic‐COF‐Cl is a promising material for highly selective recovering gold from actual e‐waste. DFT calculations further reveal that counter ions can regulate the adsorption affinity of ionic COF framework toward Au. In short, this work provides a useful anion regulation strategy to design ionic COFs as a promising platform for gold selective recovery from actual e‐waste.
Doping In Vivo Alkylation in E. coli by Introducing the Direct Sulfurylation Pathway of S. cerevisiae
Authors: Mohr Michael K. F. , Benčić Patricia , Andexer Jennifer N.
Published: September 2024

Methylation and alkylation are important techniques used for the synthesis and derivatisation of small molecules and natural products. Application of S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM)‐dependent methyltransferases (MTs) in biotechnological hosts such as Escherichia coli lowers the environmental impact of alkylation compared to chemical synthesis and facilitates regio‐ and chemoselective alkyl chain transfer. Here, we address the limiting factor for SAM synthesis, methionine supply, to accelerate in vivo methylation activity. Introduction of the direct sulfurylation pathway, consisting of O‐acetylhomoserine sulfhydrolase (ScOAHS) and O‐acetyltransferase (ScMET2), from S. cerevisiae into E. coli and supplementation with methanethiol or the corresponding disulfide improves atom‐economic methylation activity in three different MT reactions. Up to 17‐fold increase of conversion compared to the sole expression of the MT and incorporation of up to 79 % of the thiol compound added were achieved. Promiscuity of ScOAHS allowed in vivo production of methionine analogues from organic thiols. Further co‐overproduction of a methionine adenosyltransferase yielded SAM analogues which were further transferred by MTs onto different substrates. For methylation of non‐physiological substrates, conversion rates up to 73 % were achieved, with an isolated yield of 41 % for N‐methyl‐2,5‐aminonitrophenol. The here described technique enables E. coli to become a biotechnological host for improved methylation and selective alkylation reactions.
Photo‐activation of Tolane‐based Synthetic Ion Channel for Transmembrane Chloride Transport
Authors: Chattopadhayay Sandip , Banzal Kshitij V. , Talukdar Pinaki
Published: September 2024

While natural channels respond to external stimuli to regulate ion concentration across cell membranes, creating a synthetic version remains challenging. Here, we present a photo‐responsive uncaging technique within an artificial ion channel system, which activates the ion transport process from a transport‐inactive o‐nitrobenzyl‐based caged system. From the comparative ion transport screening, 1 b emerged as the most active transporter. Interestingly, its bis(o‐nitrobenzyl) derivative, i.e., protransporter 1 b′ was inefficient in transporting ions. Detailed transport studies indicated that compound 1 b is an anion selective transporter with a prominent selectivity towards chloride ions by following the antiport mechanism. Compound 1 b′ did not form an ion channel, but after the o‐nitrobenzyl groups were photocleaved, it released 1 b, forming a transmembrane ion channel. The channel exhibited an average diameter of 6.5±0.2 Å and a permeability ratio of
. The geometry‐optimization of protransporter 1 b′ indicated significant non‐planarity, corroborating its inefficient self‐assembly. In contrast, the crystal structure of 1 b demonstrates strong self‐assembly via the formation of an intermolecular H‐bond. Geometry optimization studies revealed the plausible self‐assembled channel model and the interactions between the channel and chloride ion.
Surface‐Engineered Ni2P: An Efficient Oxygen Electrocatalyst for Zinc‐Air Battery
Authors: Manikanta Kumar Mopidevi , Singh Rahul , Raj C. Retna
Published: September 2024

The surface engineering of electrocatalysts is one of the promising strategies to increase the intrinsic activity of electrocatalysts. It generates anion/cation vacancy defects and increases the electrochemically active surface area. We describe the surface engineering of Ni2P to favorably tune the bifunctional oxygen electrocatalytic activity and the development of a rechargeable zinc‐air battery (ZAB). Ni2P encapsulated with N and P‐dual doped carbon (Ni2P@NPC) is synthesized using a single‐source precursor complex tris‐(2,2′‐bipyridine)nickel(II) bis(hexafluorophosphate). The surface engineering of the as‐synthesized Ni2P@NPC catalyst is achieved by the controlled acid treatment at room temperature. The surface engineering removes the carbon debris and opens the pores, exfoliates the encapsulating carbon layer, increases the P‐vacancy in the crystal lattice, and boosts the electrochemically active surface area. The surface‐engineered catalyst exhibits enhanced bifunctional activity towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The electrocatalytically active sites of engineered catalysts are highly accessible for facilitated electron transfer kinetics. P‐vacancy favors the facile formation of defect‐rich OER active metal oxyhydroxide species. The rechargeable ZAB based on the engineered catalyst delivers a specific capacity of 770.25 mA h gZn−1, energy density of 692 Wh kgZn−1, and excellent charge‐discharge cycling performance with negligible voltaic efficiency loss (0.6 %) after 100 h.
Europium (III)‐modified sunflower‐derived carbon dots for fluorescent anti‐counterfeiting inks and photocatalysis
Authors: Chu Kunyu , Wang Congling , Cui Xuemin
Published: September 2024

A highly water‐soluble and fluorescent N,S‐doped carbon dots/europium (N,S‐CDs/Eu) was successfully synthesized via a secondary hydrothermal method. This involved surface modification of N,S‐CDs derived from sunflower stem pith (SSP) with europium ions (Eu3+) doping. When excited within the range of 400–470 nm, N,S‐CDs/Eu exhibited a stable and broad optimal emission wavelength ranging from 505 to 540 nm. Notably, the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of N,S‐CDs/Eu is 31.4%, significantly higher than the 19.5% observed for N,S‐CDs. Additionally, by dissolving N,S‐CDs/Eu into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a uniform fluorescent anti‐counterfeiting ink can be prepared. The N,S‐CDs/Eu/TiO2 composite demonstrates excellent photocatalytic degradation ability towards the organic dye methylene blue (MB). N,S‐CDs/Eu has potential in the field of fluorescent inks and photocatalysis due to its simple and efficient preparation and excellent properties.
Partitioning behavior of short DNA fragments in polymer/salt aqueous two‐phase systems
Authors: Meutelet Rafaela , Bisch Lea J. , Buerfent Benedikt C. , Müller Markus , Hubbuch Jürgen
Published: September 2024

The development of liquid biopsy as a minimally invasive technique for tumor profiling has created a need for efficient biomarker extraction systems from body fluids. The analysis of circulating cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) is especially promising, but the low amounts and high fragmentation of cfDNA found in plasma pose challenges to its isolation. While the potential of aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPS) for the extraction and purification of various biomolecules has already been successfully established, there is limited literature on the applicability of these findings to short cfDNA‐like fragments. This study presents the partitioning behavior of a 160 bp DNA fragment in polyethylene glycol (PEG)/salt ATPS at pH 7.4. The effect of PEG molecular weight, tie‐line length, neutral salt additives, and phase volume ratio is evaluated to maximize DNA recovery. Selected ATPS containing a synthetic plasma solution spiked with human serum albumin and immunoglobulin G are tested to determine the separation of DNA fragments from the main plasma protein fraction. By adding 1.5% (w/w) NaCl to a 17.7% (w/w) PEG 400/17.3% (w/w) phosphate ATPS, 88% DNA recovery was achieved in the salt‐rich bottom phase while over 99% of the protein was removed.