bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactions of the Small Tin Clusters with Carbon Monoxide: Infrared Spectra and DFT Calculations of the SnnCO (n = 2–5) and Sn2(CO)2 Molecules in Solid Argon
Authors: Jiang Ling , Xu Qiang
Published: June 2006

Laser-ablated Sn atoms have been co-deposited with CO molecules in solid argon to produce tin carbonyls. In addition to the previously reported Sn(CO)n (n = 1 and 2) molecules, small tin cluster carbonyls SnnCO (n = 2–5) and Sn2(CO)2 are formed on sample annealing, and are characterized using infrared spectroscopy on the basis of the results of the isotopic substitution, the CO concentration change, and the comparison with theoretical predictions. It is found that Sn2CO, Sn3CO, and Sn5CO are bridge-bonded carbonyl compounds, whereas Sn2(CO)2 and Sn4CO are terminal-bonded carbonyl molecules. The Sn2(CO)2 species observably undergoes photo-induced decomposition to Sn(CO)2. Another interesting finding is that the absorption of Sn4CO shifts from 1994.0 to 1989.8 cm−1 by UV light irradiation, probably due to the change of the electronic state or the matrix effect. The density functional theory calculations have been performed on these molecules and the corresponding small naked tin clusters. Furthermore, energetic analysis for the possible reactions of lead atoms with CO molecules is also given.
Dynamic Property of H2O in Layered VOPO4·2H2O Studied by Solid-State NMR
Authors: Kawaguchi Takamoto , Ohki Hiroshi , Yamada Koji , Okuda Tsutomu
Published: June 2006

The dynamics of interlayer H2O in VOPO4·2H2O have been studied by 1H and 2H NMR measurements. This compound contains two different kinds of water molecules. One of the two water molecules has a coordination bond to the V in the layer. The 2H NMR spectrum at 150 K was reproduced by one component with the quadrupole-coupling constant QCC = 220 kHz and the asymmetry parameter η = 0.12. This result suggests that all H2O molecules are static at this temperature. In the temperature range of 160–240 K, both interlayer H2O molecules show 180°-flipping motion from the 2H NMR spectra. This motion of the two different H2O molecules suggests the hydrogen-bonding network between these interlayer H2O. The activation energies of this motion could be determined to be 30 kJ mol−1 from the 2H NMR spectrum simulation. Additionally, the diffusional component also appeared above 240 K. Above 270 K, two-dimensional diffusion of the interlayer species is suggested in this material.
Crystal Structure of Double Salts with Different Organic Cations Obtained from the Reaction of Tetrabutylammonium Bis(2-thioxo-1,3-dithiole-4,5-dithiolato)nickelate(II) and 1-Propyl-1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octanium Bromide
Authors: Onozaki Kei , Miyamura Kazuo
Published: June 2006

The reaction between (Bu4N)2[Ni(dmit)2] (Bu4N = tetrabutylammonium, dmit = 2-thioxo-1,3-dithiole-4,5-dithiolato) and the bromide of 1-propyl-1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octanium (C3DABCO) yielded crystals of the double salt (Bu4N)4(C3DABCO)2[Ni(dmit)2]3 together with (C3DABCO)2[Ni(dmit)2]. The structures of the two crystals have been solved and compared. The crystal of the double salt was made up of one (C3DABCO)2[Ni(dmit)2] and two (Bu4N)2[Ni(dmit)2] units. In both units, planar [Ni(dmit)2]2− was sandwiched by two cations. The Ni–N+ distance of the (C3DABCO)2[Ni(dmit)2] unit in a single salt was 0.3 Å longer than that in the double salt. The ethyl- and butyl-substituted analogues, abbreviated as C2DABCO and C4DABCO, respectively, were also synthesized by a similar procedure, but did not form a double salt. However, the volume of the C4DABCO single salt was found to be smaller than that of the C3DABCO single salt, although the alkyl chain was elongated.
Dinuclear Copper(II) Complexes of a Macrocyclic Compartmental Ligand in Two Isomeric Forms. Exogenous Ion Effect upon Ligand Isomerism
Authors: Sekine Noboru , Shiga Takuya , Ohba Masaaki , Okawa Hisashi
Published: June 2006

A dinucleating compartmental ligand derived from the cyclic [2:1:1] condensation of 2,6-diformyl-4-methylphenol, 1,3-propanediamine, and diethylenetriamine (dien) assumes two isomeric forms in the dinuclear copper(II) complexes, [Cu2(La)](ClO4)2·2H2O (1) and [Cu2(Lb)(AcO)]BPh4 (2). Complex 1 has the ligand in the usual condensation with a trimethylene chain (–(CH2)3–) and a 3-azapentamethylene chain (–(CH2)2NH(CH2)2–) between two azomethine nitrogen atoms; the nitrogen atom of the 3-azapentamethylene chain is free from coordination. Complex 2 has the ligand in an unusual condensation with dien: The central amino nitrogen of dien is further involved in the condensation with one C=N linkage to form an imidazolidine ring. An acetate ion bridges two copper ions to form a μ-acetato-di(μ-phenolato) dinuclear core with a saddle-like shape. The origin for the unusual condensation in 2 is considered and the physicochemical properties of 1 and 2 are examined.
π-Conjugated Poly(1,10-phenanthroline)–RuII(bpy)2 Complex as an n-Type Active Material for FET
Authors: Yamamoto Takakazu , Sakai Yoshimasa , Aramaki Shinji
Published: June 2006

RuII(bpy)2 complexes of poly(2-nonyl-1,10-phenanthroline-3,8-diyl) and poly(1,10-phenanthroline-3,8-diyl) acted as an n-channel in field-effect transistors (FETs), and showed electron mobility of 5.5 × 10−3 and 1.9 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1, respectively. Without the Ru2+ complexation, the original poly(1,10-phenanthroline-3,8-diyl) did not behave as the n-channel active material, suggesting the enhancement of electron-accepting and electron-conducting properties of the polymer by the metal complexation.
Ground-penetrating radar investigations for urban roads
Authors: Evans R. , Frost M. , Stonecliffe-Jones M. , Dixon N.
Published: June 2006

Although ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technology has existed for many decades, it has only been in the last 15 to 20 years that it has undergone great development and is now a commonly used non-destructive technique to assess layer thicknesses and material condition of trunk road pavement structures. Intrusive investigations provide vital additional information, but are often costly and time-consuming, and have the limitation that only data at discrete points are obtained. The nature of urban sites means that ground conditions are highly variable, and urban pavements are often subject to much maintenance and reconstruction. This can result in roads containing several pavement types or layers of materials of differing age and condition, often overlying discrete buried objects, services or structures. Other site-specific factors can also affect the quality of data obtained. However, it is possible to tailor a GPR survey to optimise data by adjusting the investigation methodology. Using an example of a recent urban pavement investigation, this paper shows how the use of detailed and extensive GPR data collection can be used to target concurrent invasive investigations to optimise the analysis of variable urban pavement structures and hence focus maintenance treatments and methodologies.
Experimental research on waterjet street surface cleaning
Authors: Gao D. , Chen J.
Published: June 2006

Using pure waterjets for cleaning street surfaces is very important for road maintenance and vehicle protection. It is also relevant to environmental protection. Commonly, street surfaces are cleaned by fan-shaped waterjets and many parameters can influence the effectiveness of the cleaning. To date, there has been a dearth of research into this subject. The study of the relationship between the parameters and the results is the basis for optimising these parameters to obtain the best cleaning effectiveness, productivity and energy consumption. This paper reports on a series of experiments conducted to study the correlation between cleaning rate and cleaning parameters of pressure p, traverse rate ν, standoff distance and nozzle installation angle. It is found that the cleaning rate is proportional to p 3 and ν−0·5. At the same time, there was a critical standoff distance where the cleaning rate and average clean width could reach the maximum value; the cleaning rate could reach the maximum value when the installation angle was near 40°.
Residual Effects of Composted and Fresh Solid Swine (Sus scrofa L.) Manure on Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] Growth and Yield
Authors: McAndrews Gina M. , Liebman Matt , Cambardella Cynthia A. , Richard Tom L.
Published: June 2006

Applying livestock manure to soil can enhance soil fertility and crop growth; however, little information is available on the residual effects of manure on crop growth. The objective of this study was to investigate the residual effect of fresh or composted hoop house swine manure on the growth and yield of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. During 2000 and 2001 near Boone, IA, research plots received applications of composted or fresh solid swine manure from hoop structures or one of four levels of urea (0, 60, 120, and 180 kg N ha−1) before planting maize (Zea mays L.). During the growing season following maize harvest, we evaluated the responses of soybean to the eight treatments applied the previous year. During both years, soybean plants from manure‐amended plots were significantly taller and had a thicker stem diameter than plants from the other plots. The manure‐treated plots produced 39% greater soybean leaf area than the control in 2001 and 11% greater leaf area than the urea‐amended plots in 2002. There was a 21 to 34% greater K concentration in soybean plants grown in the manure‐amended sites than in the other plots. Soybean grain yield was 0.2 to 0.5 Mg ha−1 greater in the manure‐treated plots than the control or urea‐fertilized plots. Responses to manure were unaffected by the time of application (fall or spring) or the form of manure (composted or fresh). We have shown that fresh and composted swine manure application before growing maize resulted in detectable, positive residual effects on soybean growth and yield.
Cover Cropping and Nutrient Management Strategies for Maize Production in Western Africa
Authors: Sogbedji J. M. , van Es H. M. , Agbeko K. L.
Published: June 2006

Introduction of cover cropping systems may be important to a stable food supply in sub‐Saharan Africa. We examined the effects of three cropping systems in a 2‐yr, four growing season study in Togo: continuous maize (Zea mays L.), maize–mucuna [Mucuna pruriens (L.) D.C.], and maize–pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L.). Mucuna and pigeon pea were grown in 1‐ or 2‐yr cycles, and three N and two P fertilizer rates were factorially applied on maize. Use of mucuna and pigeon pea after maize in the first year reduced N and P fertilizer needs in the subsequent year. Cover crops increased maize grain yield by 37.5 and 32.1%, respectively, in the second year. Two‐year cumulative economic returns on maize production were optimal when cover crops were grown every other year (every fourth season), compared to continuous maize or annual cover crops. The April 2002 to December 2003 soil N budgets showed a gain of N (>400 kg ha−1) under all cropping systems. Initial soil nitrate (NO3)–N was reduced by 57.8% under the continuous maize system, but increased by 39 and 3.6% under the mucuna‐based and pigeon pea–based systems, respectively. Low (<20 kg ha−1) N losses occurred during the fallow period. Phosphorus losses occurred for all periods, but a mucuna‐based cropping system has potential for soil P replenishment. The relay of a mucuna cover crop into maize in one out of 2 yr was most economical and improved soil N and P status without commercial fertilizers.
Fertilization and Nitrogen Balance in a Wheat–Maize Rotation System in North China
Authors: Zhao Rong‐Fang , Chen Xin‐Ping , Zhang Fu‐Suo , Zhang Hailin , Schroder Jackie , Römheld Volker
Published: June 2006

Over N fertilization is a common problem for the winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–summer maize (Zea mays L.) rotation system in the North China Plain. A field experiment which included control (no N), conventional N (Con. N) fertilization, and optimized N (Nmin) fertilization treatments, was conducted from 1999 to 2003 near Beijing, China. Soil nitrate (NO3) dynamics were measured and N balance was calculated for the period of the eight successive cropping seasons. Soil NO3–N in the 0‐ to 90‐cm profile for the Con. N treatment ranged from 157 to 700 kg ha−1 during the eight successive cropping seasons, much greater than those in the no N and optimized N treatments. Large amounts of soil NO3–N were detected in the 90‐ to 200‐cm layer under the conventional N fertilization treatment, especially in the summer maize season. For the Nmin treatment, the total amount of N applied was 511 kg N ha−1 in the eight successive crops as compared with 2400 kg N ha−1 of the Con. N treatment. Grain yields were not different between the fertilized treatments except for maize in 2003. Soil NO3–N in the root zone under conditions of optimized N fertilization was maintained at a relatively low level as compared with the Con. N treatment, therefore dramatically decreasing NO3–N movement to deeper soil profile. This study indicates that soil NO3 movement out of the effective crop root zone is an important pathway of N losses in this winter wheat–summer maize rotation system in the North China Plain and the optimized N fertilization by an improved Nmin method shows high potential of reducing N‐leaching losses.
Winter Cover Crop and Management Effects on Summer and Annual Nutrient Yields
Authors: Rowe Dennis E. , Fairbrother Timothy E. , Sistani Karamat A.
Published: June 2006

Effluent from a swine (Sus scrofa domesticus) lagoon is often applied repeatedly to nearby fields because of logistical constraints and costs of transportation. To minimize accumulation of soil nutrients and sustain use of spray field, best management practices must maximize the rates of removal of manure nutrients. Research determined summer hay and nutrient yields of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] following winter cover crops ‘Kenland’ red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), ‘Bigbee’ berseem clover (T. alexandrinum L.), or ‘Marshall’ annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) subjected to five harvesting systems. Also, summer and winter forage yields were combined and analyzed to find best annual performance. Nutrient yields of bermudagrass were statistically affected by winter cover crop species and harvest date. Summer production was maximized following berseem clover harvested on a two‐harvest‐day system of 15 May and 1 June. Harvesting the winter cover crop in addition to the bermudagrass increased extraction of N (82%), P (76%), K (90%), Mg (95%), Mn (67%), Ca (158%), Fe (80%), Zn (83%), and Cu (97%). For environmentally sensitive nutrients N, P, Cu, and Zn, annual yields were maximized with a two‐harvest‐day system of 15 April and 1 June of a cover crop, which was not the best harvest system for either the winter or the summer trials in isolation. Tests on summer performance and winter performance in isolation were informative and did indicate the best winter cover crop species, berseem clover, but did not indicate the best management system for annual production.
Environmental Impact of Irrigating Turf with Type I Recycled Water
Authors: Thomas James C. , White Richard H. , Vorheis Jonathan T. , Harris Heather G. , Diehl Kenneth
Published: June 2006

As our water reserves diminish, recycled water is increasingly being used for irrigation of turfgrasses. This study was conducted to determine the fate of nutrients contained in Type I recycled water used to irrigate turf and its effect on turf quality. Eighteen plots were randomly assigned to three replications of three irrigation treatments and two grasses. Irrigation treatments included Edwards Aquifer water applied at the evapotranspiration (ET) rate (EA), recycled water applied at the evapotranspiration rate (1XRW), and recycled water applied at 1.1 times the evapotranspiration rate to provide a leaching fraction (LFRW). Grasses included ‘Tifway’ bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon(L.) Pers. ×C. transvaalensisBurtt Davy) and ‘Jamur’ zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonicaSteud.). Rain, runoff, leachate, and soil samples were collected and analyzed for total salts, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, N, K, Na, and Zn. The use of San Antonio Water System (SAWS) Type I recycled water had no adverse effect on turf quality but did result in a significant increase in soil electrical conductivity (EC) from 0.2518 dS m−1in the EA treatment to 0.3132 and 0.3171 dS m−1in the 1XRW and LFRW treatments, respectively. The Ca content increased from 134 108 and 135 467 mg L−1in the EA and 1XRW treatments to 142 835 mg L−1in the LFRW treatment. Na concentrations in the soil were not affected by the use of recycled water. The use of recycled water resulted in increased total salts (EC), Na and nitrate (NO3) concentrations in leachate passing below 76 cm. The EC increased from 0.425 dS m−1for the EA treatment to 0.626 and 0.614 dS m−1for the 1XRW and LFRW treatments, respectively. Na concentrations in leachate increased from 18.33 mg L−1for the EA treatment to 49.10 and 52.91 mg L−1for the 1XRW and LFRW treatments, respectively. Runoff water from treatments irrigated with recycled water exhibited a trend of increased EC, Ca, Mn, and Na.
Aerial Color Infrared Photography for Determining Early In‐Season Nitrogen Requirements in Corn
Authors: Sripada Ravi P. , Heiniger Ronnie W. , White Jeffrey G. , Meijer Alan D.
Published: June 2006

In‐season determination of corn (Zea mays L.) N requirements via remote sensing may help optimize N application decisions and improve profit, fertilizer use efficiency, and environmental quality. The objective of this study was to use aerial color‐infrared (CIR) photography as a remote‐sensing technique for predicting in‐season N requirements for corn at the V7 growth stage. Field studies were conducted for 2 yr at three locations, each with and without irrigation, in the North Carolina Coastal Plain. Experimental treatments were a complete factorial of four N rates at planting (NPL) and five N rates at V7 (NV7). Aerial CIR photographs were taken at each of the locations at V7 before N application. Optimum NV7 ranged from 0 to 207 kg N ha−1 with a mean of 67 kg N ha−1. Significant but weak correlations were observed between optimum NV7 rates and the band combinations relative green, Relative Green Difference Vegetation Index, and Relative Difference Vegetation Index as measured in CIR photos. High proportions of soil reflectance in the images early in the corn growing season (V7) likely confounded our attempts to relate spectral information to optimum NV7 rates. The primary obstacles to applying this technique early in the season are the use of relative digital counts or indices that require high‐N reference strips in the field and strong background reflectance from the soil. When the NPL treatments that were nonresponsive to NV7 (i.e., optimum NV7 = 0) were removed from the analysis, the normalized near infrared, the Green Difference Vegetation Index, the Green Ratio Vegetation Index, and the Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index were the best predictors of optimum NV7 rate (r2 = 0.33).
Seasonal Changes in Dry Matter Partitioning, Yield, and Crude Protein of Intermediate Wheatgrass and Smooth Bromegrass
Authors: Smart Alexander J. , Schacht Walter H. , Volesky Jerry D. , Moser Lowell E.
Published: June 2006

Seasonal patterns of dry matter partitioning and nutritive value of leaf and stem components of grass species is important for selecting species for planting, planning grazing strategies, and making management decisions. Our objective was to compare dry matter yield and crude protein (CP) yield of blade, sheath, and stem fractions of intermediate wheatgrass [Elytrigia intermedia (Host) Nevski] and smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.) during the growing season. Intermediate wheatgrass and smooth bromegrass were sampled on a weekly basis from 14 May to 25 June in 1997 and from 5 May to 23 June in 1998 at Lincoln, NE. Samples were separated into blade, sheath, stem, and inflorescence components and yield and concentration of CP were determined. Smooth bromegrass tended to have greater blade and stem yield than intermediate wheatgrass during the 1997 and 1998 sampling periods. Yield of sheath was similar between species. Crude protein yield of blade and stem was also greater for smooth bromegrass than intermediate wheatgrass in both years. Sheath CP yield was greater for intermediate wheatgrass in 1998. Both species followed a similar pattern of dry matter accumulation; however, intermediate wheatgrass dry matter accumulation, especially stem, tended to be 1 to 2 wk behind smooth bromegrass. Differences in dry matter partitioning, yield, and CP in these two species illustrates the advantages having a complement of forage species. Choosing a diversity of species with differing growth habits would be beneficial for improving the distribution of forage yield and quality to match the seasonal demand of grazing livestock.
A life‐time of hematopoietic cell function: ascent, stability, and decline
Authors: Popravko Anna , Mackintosh Lorna , Dzierzak Elaine
Published: March 2024

Aging is a set of complex processes that occur temporally and continuously. It is generally a unidirectional progression of cellular and molecular changes occurring during the life stages of cells, tissues and ultimately the whole organism. In vertebrate organisms, this begins at conception from the first steps in blastocyst formation, gastrulation, germ layer differentiation, and organogenesis to a continuum of embryonic, fetal, adolescent, adult, and geriatric stages. Tales of the “fountain of youth” and songs of being “forever young” are dominant ideas informing us that growing old is something science should strive to counteract. Here, we discuss the normal life stages of the blood system, particularly the historical recognition of its importance in the early growth stages of vertebrates, and what this means with respect to progressive gain and loss of hematopoietic function in the adult.
Myth and Measure: Drawings of the 1970s
Authors: Rinder Lawrence
Published: March 2024

Many of the 1970s’ drawings of Lebbeus Woods feature disguised human form. The most classical physiognomies maintain links with a primordial, even reptilian antipode. Lawrence Rinder, Director Emeritus of the University of California, Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, explores the manifestations of figure in Woods's private mythology, and points to the uncanny synergy of its themes and compositions with works by Giambattista Tiepolo.
In Place of Light: On Early Writings
Authors: Keller Eliyahu
Published: March 2024

Where is one's voice to be found? Not all architects search for it in both drawing and writing. Eliyahu Keller, an architectural historian working at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, examines one of Lebbeus Woods's distinct early tropes: an ever‐tense continuum between the image and the text. His ocular reading of Woods's scripts diagnoses their involvement with a darkness of an age, not its light.
Catalytic Moments, Friendships and Journeys
Authors: Cook Peter
Published: March 2024

When an architectural argonaut whose creative life was spent on a quest to open more possibilities for architecture meets another, a special mutual respect is instilled. Peter Cook, Archigram co‐founder and doyen of the Architectural Association (AA) in the 1980s, recalls his initial encounter and some of the moments he has shared with Lebbeus Woods over the decades.
Integration of Mechatronic Functions on Additively Manufactured Components via Laser‐Assisted Selective Metal Deposition
Authors: Vieten Tobias , Weser Sascha , Schilling Alexander , Gläser Kerstin , Zimmermann André
Published: March 2024

The current industrial revolution derives much of its momentum from value creation based on interconnected products and related data based services. Such products must fulfill both mechanical and electrical requirements, making them mechatronic systems. The production of such systems via additive manufacturing (AM) processes offers advantages in achievable complexity, reduction of the amount of individual components, and cost‐effective as well as sustaina ble production of small quantities. In this work, a process chain is presented that allows for refining additively manufactured 3D structures made from industry‐standard materials into mechatronic components by creating electrically conductive structures directly on their surfaces. The process chain is based on masking the component's surface and selectively removing the masking according to the circuit geometry using laser radiation. In a wet–chemical bath process, the surface is then exposed to palladium nuclei, the masking is fully removed and metal layers (copper/nickel/gold) are deposited by electroless plating. The procedure is developed using stereolithography as a model process for AM and transferred to four additional AM methods. In all cases, despite markedly different surface properties, good selectivity of metal deposition is observed as well as adhesion strength and conductivity comparable to industrially common injection‐molded laser direct structured mechatronic interconnect devices.
Tailored Micromagnet Sorting Gate for Simultaneous Multiple Cell Screening in Portable Magnetophoretic Cell‐On‐Chip Platforms
Authors: Yoon Jonghwan , Kang Yumin , Kim Hyeonseol , Ali Abbas , Kim Keonmok , Torati Sri Ramulu , Im Mi‐Young , Jeon Changyeop , Lim Byeonghwa , Kim CheolGi
Published: March 2024

Conventional magnetophoresis techniques for manipulating biocarriers and cells predominantly rely on large‐scale electromagnetic systems, which is a major obstacle to the development of portable and miniaturized cell‐on‐chip platforms. Herein, a novel magnetic engineering approach by tailoring a nanoscale notch on a disk micromagnet using two‐step optical and thermal lithography is developed. Versatile manipulations are demonstrated, such as separation and trapping, of carriers and cells by mediating changes in the magnetic domain structure and discontinuous movement of magnetic energy wells around the circumferential edge of the micromagnet caused by a locally fabricated nano‐notch in a low magnetic field system. The motion of the magnetic energy well is regulated by the configuration of the nanoscale notch and the strength and frequency of the magnetic field, accompanying the jump motion of the carriers. The proposed concepts demonstrate that multiple carriers and cells can be manipulated and sorted using optimized nanoscale multi‐notch gates for a portable magnetophoretic system. This highlights the potential for developing cost‐effective point‐of‐care testing and lab‐on‐chip systems for various single‐cell‐level diagnoses and analyses.
Integrated Electrostimulation Cell Culture Systems Driven by Chemically Modified Twistron Mechanical Energy Harvesting Electrodes
Authors: Oh Seongjae , Kim Keon Jung , Kim Chae Hwa , Lee Jun Hyuk , Kim Hyunsoo , Kim Beomsu , Park Chae‐Lin , Oh Junho , Kim Eun Sung , Kim Hyun , Yeo Sang Young , Kim Doyong , Hu Xinghao , Choi Joonmyung , Suh Dongseok , Lim Seong Chu , Baughman Ray H. , Park Chan Hee , Kim Tae Hee , Kim Shi Hyeong
Published: March 2024

Developing mechanical energy harvesters for electrical stimulation (ES) needed to augment cell behavior is a burgeoning area of interest. Mechanical energy harvesters that can generate electrical energy in electrolyte‐containing aqueous environments offer a unique solution for delivering ES to cells. In this work, a fully integrated ES assembly (FESA) is introduced that comprises coiled polydopamine (PDA) containing carbon nanotube yarn (CNT) harvesters, serving as ES generators, and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) coated carbon nanotube (PEDOT/CNT) sheets employed as a conductive scaffold. The PDA containing CNT (PDA/CNT) yarn, a novel twistron electrode, achieves an enhanced electrical power at a lower matching impedance than coiled CNT yarn to efficiently transfer ES to the conductive scaffold. The PEDOT used for the scaffold provides a suitable surface for cell adhesion and low resistance for effective ES transmission. In addition, the upscaled array of coiled PDA/CNT yarns provides an ES current density range up to 75.4 µA cm−2, which is much higher than for ES systems using different mechanical energy harvesters. This FESA is designed to provide an optimal level of ES for the proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes. The findings illuminate the potential of chemically modified twistron energy harvesters as an innovative and effective strategy to promote biological response.
The Robust Ferroelectric and Electrical Response in 2D Bi2O2Se Semiconductor
Authors: Khan Usman , Xu Runzhang , Nairan Adeela , Han Mengjiao , Wang Xusheng , Kong Lingan , Gao Junkuo , Tang Lei
Published: March 2024

The amelioration of atomically thin ferroelectric materials is imperative for next‐generation outperformed two‐dimensional (2D) electronics, which is elusive by their bulk counterparts. These remarkable materials’ ferroelectric and piezoelectric features are the fundamental urges in optoelectronics, electronics, and energy harvesting. In this work, 2D ferroelectric Bi2O2Se flakes have been synthesized using a modified chemical vapor deposition technique. The 6 nm thick Bi2O2Se flake provides a robust ferroelectric switching under an applied voltage of ±10 V by piezoresponse force microscopy, further confirmed by first principles. Leveraging the successful growth, the high‐quality Bi2O2Se flakes permit the fabrication of a field‐effect transistor (FET) with state‐of‐the‐art performance. The FET device rewards a high current on–off ratio of 108 and field effect mobility of almost 131 cm2 V−1 s−1, owing to the small carrier effective mass of 0.2 m0. Combined, the electric field‐induced local polarization of ferroelectric switching and unprecedented device performance of Bi2O2Se semiconductors are certified for their utilization in advanced nanoelectronics and miniaturization of multifunctional devices with multifunctionalities.
Cation Vacancy Modulated Interfacial Electronic Interactions for Enhanced Electrocatalysis in Lithium–Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Zheng Ruixin , Du Dayue , Yan Yu , Liu Sheng , Wang Xinxiang , Shu Chaozhu
Published: March 2024

Li–O2 batteries deliver ultrahigh theoretical specific energy while suffering from low energy efficiency and poor cyclability due to sluggish kinetics of oxygen electrode reactions. Herein, a strategy of engineering interfacial electron structure of MXene‐based composites is presented to boost oxygen electrode reactions for advancing Li–O2 batteries with the cation vacancy‐rich CoSe@MXene (VCo‐CoSe2@MXene) as the case study. The formation of interfacial Co─C bond between VCo‐CoSe2 and Ti3C2 MXene and its enhanced covalency after introducing Co vacancy leads to promoted electron transfer from Ti3C2 MXene to CoSe2 and optimized electronic structure of interfacial Co sites, especially the second Co sites neighboring Co vacancy, which serve as the active centers for oxygen redox reactions. On this basis, VCo‐CoSe2@MXene‐based Li─O2 batteries exhibit low overpotential (0.35 V) and excellent cycling stability (250 cycles at 500 mA g−1). This work proposes an effective strategy to develop MXene‐based electrocatalysts for Li–O2 batteries by tailoring interfacial electron structure.
Oxygen Atom Coordinative Position Inducing Catalytic Sites Structure Reconstruction for Enhanced Photocatalytic H2 Evolution
Authors: Pang Weiying , Du Xu , Yang Yuting , Long Chang , Li Yutong , Hu Canyu , Xu Ruohang , Tian Meng , Xie Jiaojiao , Wang Wenjing , Guo Jun , Li Baohui , Zhang Pan , Fu Dong , Zhao Kun
Published: March 2024

Oxygen‐inducing controllable surface reconstruction on the transition metal‐based (TMB) materials surface has a great impact on catalytic performance. However, regulating the oxygen coordinative position during the active sites reconstructive process is challenging and poorly understood. Here, the metastable isomeric catalytic site is reasonably designed and fabricated for enhancing photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. Due to the controlled coordinative position of the oxygen atom, a new ternary catalytic site Co‐P(‐‐O) is created, improving the photocatalytic performance of H2 evolution toward 20.7 mmol g−1 in 6 h and 0.56% apparent quantum efficiency. The reconstruction method not only changes the electronic state around the catalytic site but also tunes the adsorption energy of the hydrogen atom. Compared with Co‐Co, Co‐P, Co‐O, and O‐Co‐P catalytic sites, the remarkable Co‐P(‐‐O) sites would drive the H‐atom connecting with the Co‐P bridge style achieving the best performance and excellent stability. Such a reconstructed catalytic site is also proved efficient in electrocatalysis and photo‐electrocatalysis systems. In conclusion, this work provides a new insight that the controllable isomeric catalytic site reconstruction strategy can dramatically enhance the catalytic performance.
Research Progress on Injectable Microspheres as New Strategies for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis Through Promotion of Cartilage Repair
Authors: Lin Jianjing , Jia Shicheng , Cao Fuyang , Huang Jingtao , Chen Jiayou , Wang Juan , Liu Peng , Zeng Hui , Zhang Xintao , Cui Wenguo
Published: March 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease caused by a variety of factors with joint pain as the main symptom, including fibrosis, chapping, ulcers, and loss of cartilage. Traditional treatment can only delay the progression of OA, and classical delivery system have many side effects. In recent years, microspheres have shown great application prospects in the field of OA treatment. Microspheres can support cells, reproduce the natural tissue microenvironment in vitro and in vivo, and are an efficient delivery system for the release of drugs or biological agents, which can promote cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Thus, they have been widely used in cartilage repair and regeneration. In this review, preparation processes, basic materials, and functional characteristics of various microspheres commonly used in OA treatment are systematically reviewed. Then it is introduced surface modification strategies that can improve the biological properties of microspheres and discussed a series of applications of microsphere functionalized scaffolds in OA treatment. Finally, based on bibliometrics research, the research development, future potential, and possible research hotspots of microspheres in the field of OA therapy is systematically and dynamically evaluated. The comprehensive and systematic review will bring new understanding to the field of microsphere treatment of OA.
Degradable n‐Type Organic Semiconductors Based on Knoevenagel Condensation Reaction
Authors: Xu Yi , Xu Chenhui , Wang Cheng , Liu Yuqian , Wang Shiyu , Ji Deyang , Geng Dongling , Han Yang , Deng Yunfeng , Geng Yanhou
Published: March 2024

The increasing amount of electronic exerts a profound impact on both the environment and human health. Looking forward, it is imperative to develop electronic products that can degrade under mind condition, which largely relies on the development of degradable organic semiconductors (OSCs). Yet, designing degradable OSCs with decent electrical properties is challenging. In this study, two degradable n‐type OSCs based on a dynamic covalent C═C bond formed via the Knoevenagel condensation reaction are reported. The cleavage of Knoevenagel formed C═C bond through a retro‐Knoevenagel process imparts the degradability of these two OSCs in the weak base, particularly in the human‐friendly α‐amino acid of lysine. Meanwhile, the C═C bond formed by Knoevenagel reaction preserves optimal backbone planarity and good electron delocalization of the molecules. This, in turn, endows the OSCs with commendable electron transport performance, achieving an electron mobility of up to 0.57 cm2 V⁻¹ s⁻¹ in organic thin‐film transistors. This work provides a new insight into the molecular design strategy for the development of OSCs with degradability and good electrical properties.
Efficient Lithium Transport and Reversible Lithium Plating in Silicon Anodes: Synergistic Design of Porous Structure and LiF‐Rich SEI for Fast Charging
Authors: Li Xin , Chen Zhiyu , Liu Xuewei , Guo Liewen , Li Ang , Chen Xiaohong , Song Huaihe
Published: March 2024

Silicon (Si) anodes hold great promise for enhancing the energy density of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, issues such as slow intrinsic kinetics and unstable interfaces caused by significant volume changes hinder the practical deployment of Si anodes. Fast charging is desired by Si‐related issues that worsen Li plating and dead Li, making it essential to overcome these for safe, reversible charging. Herein, a novel approach is proposed by combining structural design and solid electrolyte interface (SEI) modulation to enable efficient and safe fast charging of LIBs. 3D porous micro‐particles consisting of Si nanosheets coated with a pitch‐based carbon layer are successfully prepared. This design provides enhanced ion transport pathways while maintaining the material's intrinsic rate performance and tap density. Furthermore, the designed localized high‐concentration electrolyte (LHCE) exhibits a lower Li+ desolvation energy barrier and leads to the formation of a LiF‐rich SEI, mitigating the Li plating “tip effect” during fast charging, maintaining interface stability, and demonstrating high Coulombic efficiency. Overall, this study highlights the synergistic importance of structure design and SEI regulation in enhancing LIB anodes for fast charging, aiding in developing superior, safe energy storage.
Development of Polymethine Dyes for NIR‐II Fluorescence Imaging and Therapy
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Jieyan , Roy Shubham , Ullah Zia , Gu Jingsi , Huang Haiyan , Yu Chen , Wang Xuejin , Wang Han , Zhang Yinghe , Guo Bing
Published: March 2024

Fluorescence imaging in the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II) is burgeoning because of its higher imaging fidelity in monitoring physiological and pathological processes than clinical visible/the second near‐infrared window fluorescence imaging. Notably, the imaging fidelity is heavily dependent on fluorescence agents. So far, indocyanine green, one of the polymethine dyes, with good biocompatibility and renal clearance is the only dye approved by the Food and Drug Administration, but it shows relatively low NIR‐II brightness. Importantly, tremendous efforts are devoted to synthesizing polymethine dyes for imaging preclinically and clinically. They have shown feasibility in the customization of structure and properties to fulfill various needs in imaging and therapy. Herein, a timely update on NIR‐II polymethine dyes, with a special focus on molecular design strategies for fluorescent, photoacoustic, and multimodal imaging, is offered. Furthermore, the progress of polymethine dyes in sensing pathological biomarkers and even reporting drug release is illustrated. Moreover, the NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐guided therapies with polymethine dyes are summarized regarding chemo‐, photothermal, photodynamic, and multimodal approaches. In addition, artificial intelligence is pointed out for its potential to expedite dye development. This comprehensive review will inspire interest among a wide audience and offer a handbook for people with an interest in NIR‐II polymethine dyes.
P‐Type Colloidal InSb Quantum Dot Ink Enables III–V Group Bulk‐Heterojunction Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) Photodetector
Authors: Jee Seungin , Si Min‐Jae , Choi Jae‐Hwan , Kim Dongeon , Kim Changjo , Yang Dongsoo , Baek Se‐Woong
Published: March 2024

Infrared (IR) optoelectronics have become important owing to their various applications, such as recognition, autonomous driving, and quantum communications. In particular, detection beyond 1400‐nm wavelength in the shortwave IR (SWIR) spectrum (i.e., 1550 nm) is important for eye safety, and long‐range communication. Recently, group III–V (InAs or InSb) colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) have attracted considerable interest due to their broadband optical tunability and toxic‐elements (Pb and Hg)‐free properties. Herein, a new approach is developed to synthesize highly monodispersed InSb CQD by employing the continuous injection method, which enables facile optical bandgap tuning at a SWIR wavelength of up to 0.9 eV. Furthermore, solution ligand exchange using halides and thiolates results in effective passivation of the InSb CQD surface and renders a stable p‐type CQD ink. Finally, bulk heterojunction (BHJ) structure is demonstrated using n‐type InAs:p‐type InSb CQDs, which exhibits broad absorption up to 1600 nm, and a sixfold higher responsivity compared with the pristine InSb CQD device due to the efficient charge transport in BHJ CQD solids.
Enhanced Renal Carcinoma Treatment via Synergistic Photothermal/Photodynamic Therapy Using Hittorf's Phosphorus‐Decorated Polymeric Carbon Nitride Heterostructure
Authors: Guan Chen , Li Chenyu , Yang Chengyu , Yang Dongjiang , Zhang Lixue , Xu Lingyu , Liu Ke , Zhang Ningxin , Li Tianyang , Song Zhuo , Che Lin , Wang Yanfei , Zhang Liwei , Li Daohao , Zhu Yukun , Xu Yan
Published: March 2024

Nanostructured heterojunctions offer a promising solution to overcome the limitations of narrow absorption spectra, limited penetration depths, and potential harm to healthy cells in phototherapy for clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) treatment with nanomaterials. In this study, a heterostructure (PCN@HP) by decorating Hittorf's phosphorus nanorods onto biocompatible polymeric carbon nitride (PCN), enabling excitation by NIR light is designed. Compared with PCN and HP alone, the synthesized heterostructure generated localized heat upon broad absorption spectra of irradiation, boosting charge migration and separation, generating cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). Then, via in vitro and in vivo experiments, it is confirmed that the NIR‐mediated PCN@HP heterojunction is a safe and effective approach for synchronous photothermal and photodynamic therapy treatment of ccRCC. Collectively, the PCN@HP heterojunction holds great potential as a non‐invasive synergistic, dual‐mode therapeutic nanomedicine for efficient tumor nano‐therapy.
A Cell‐Permeable Photosensitizer for Selective Proximity Labeling and Crosslinking of Aggregated Proteome
Authors: Feng Huan , Zhao Qun , Zhao Nan , Liang Zhen , Huang Yanan , Zhang Xin , Zhang Lihua , Liu Yu
Published: March 2024

Intracellular proteome aggregation is a ubiquitous disease hallmark with its composition associated with pathogenicity. Herein, this work reports on a cell‐permeable photosensitizer (P8, Rose Bengal derivative) for selective photo induced proximity labeling and crosslinking of cellular aggregated proteome. Rose Bengal is identified out of common photosensitizer scaffolds for its unique intrinsic binding affinity to various protein aggregates driven by the hydrophobic effect. Further acetylation permeabilizes Rose Bengal to selectively image, label, and crosslink aggregated proteome in live stressed cells. A combination of photo‐chemical, tandem mass spectrometry, and protein biochemistry characterizations reveals the complexity in photosensitizing pathways (both Type I & II), modification sites and labeling mechanisms. The diverse labeling sites and reaction types result in highly effective enrichment and identification of aggregated proteome. Finally, aggregated proteomics and interaction analyses thereby reveal extensive entangling of proteostasis network components mediated by HSP70 chaperone (HSPA1B) and active participation of autophagy pathway in combating proteasome inhibition. Overall, this work exemplifies the first photo induced proximity labeling and crosslinking method (namely AggID) to profile intracellular aggregated proteome and analyze its interactions.
Dynamics of Analog Switching Behavior in Thin Polycrystalline Barium Titanate
Authors: Andreeva Natalia V. , Ryndin Eugeny A. , Petukhov Anatoliy E. , Vilkov Oleg Y. , Al‐Saman Amgad A.
Published: March 2024

Engineering of interfaces and point defects in ferroelectric memristors is an efficient way for manipulating the resistive switching effects of mixed ionic‐electronic nature. However, an interplay between the defects, interfacial properties, and ferroelectric polarization as well as their influence on the resistance state tuning are yet to be revealed. By considering the memristive device built on a thin polycrystalline BaTiO3film, a drift‐diffusion model of non‐stationary processes is developed. The model is based on Poisson and continuity equations solved numerically and accounts for various transport mechanisms for electrons, holes, and oxygen vacancies. Comparing simulated resistive effects with experimental data taken in a wide temperature range, it is shown that an appearance of the analog resistive switching cannot be explained solely by oxygen‐ionic transport. Investigated switching dynamics claims the oxygen vacancies redistribution to be responsible for the analog character of the switching at the prevalence of the electron hopping transport. Crucially, the required dynamics of the vacancies redistribution is achieved only in a narrow range of their mobility. These results can be used in designing the ferroelectric memristors for nonvolatile multilevel memory devices satisfying the requirements that arise at the stages of their integration into neuromorphic architectures.
Plasmonic group 4 transition metal carbide interfaces for solar‐driven desalination
Authors: Margeson Matthew J. , Atwood Mark , Monfared Yashar Esfahani , Dasog Mita
Published: March 2024

To combat the dwindling supply of freshwater, solar‐driven desalination using plasmonic nanomaterials has emerged as a promising and renewable solution. Refractory plasmonic carbide nanomaterials are exciting candidates that are inexpensive and chemically robust but have not been widely explored. Herein, plasmonic carbide interfaces made of TiC, ZrC, and HfC nanoparticle aggregates loaded onto to a mixed cellulose ester (MCE) membrane were explored to gain insight into their solar‐vapor generation and desalination potential. Desalination using Atlantic Ocean water under 1 sun intensity yielded rates of 1.26 ± 0.01, 1.18 ± 0.02, and 1.40 ± 0.01 kg m−2 h−1, with efficiencies of 86%, 80%, and 96% for TiC, ZrC, and HfC, respectively. Carbide interfaces showed good stability and effectively removed heavy metal ions and salt from solutions with concentrations up to 35%. PVA hydrogel based TMC evaporators afforded rates of 3.31 ± 0.03 and 3.22 ± 0.03 kg m−2 h−1 for TiC and ZrC, respectively. The HfC‐PVA interface afforded a high solar desalination rate of 3.69 ± 0.04 kg m−2 h−1, corresponding to an efficiency of 97% under 1‐sun illumination. The hydrogel evaporators also retained their strong salt rejection action over time.
Defining autopolyploidy: Cytology, genetics, and taxonomy
Authors: Lv Zhenling , Addo Nyarko Charles , Ramtekey Vinita , Behn Helen , Mason Annaliese S.
Published: March 2024

Autopolyploidy is taxonomically defined as the presence of more than two copies of each genome within an organism or species, where the genomes present must all originate within the same species. Alternatively, “genetic” or “cytological” autopolyploidy is defined by polysomic inheritance: random pairing and segregation of the four (or more) homologous chromosomes present, with no preferential pairing partners. In this review, we provide an overview of methods used to categorize species as taxonomic and cytological autopolyploids, including both modern and obsolete cytological methods, marker‐segregation‐based and genomics methods. Subsequently, we also investigated how frequently polysomic inheritance has been reliably documented in autopolyploids. Pure or predominantly polysomic inheritance was documented in 39 of 43 putative autopolyploid species where inheritance data was available (91%) and in seven of eight synthetic autopolyploids, with several cases of more mixed inheritance within species. We found no clear cases of autopolyploids with disomic inheritance, which was likely a function of our search methodology. Interestingly, we found seven species with purely polysomic inheritance and another five species with partial or predominant polysomic inheritance that appear to be taxonomic allopolyploids. Our results suggest that observations of polysomic inheritance can lead to relabeling of taxonomically allopolyploid species as autopolyploid and highlight the need for further cytogenetic and genomic investigation into polyploid origins and inheritance types.