bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Programmable Robotic Shape Shifting and Color Morphing Dynamics Through Magneto‐Mechano‐Chromic Coupling
Authors: Li Xueling , Cheng Yin , Zhou Yi , Shi Liangjing , Sun Jing , Ho Ghim Wei , Wang Ranran
Published: November 2024

Recreating natural organisms’ dynamic shape‐morphing and adaptive color‐changing capabilities in a compact structure poses significant challenges but unlocks unprecedented hybridized robotic‐visual applications. Overcoming programmability and predictability obstacles is key to achieving real‐time, responsive changes in appearance and functionality, enhancing robot‐environment‐user interactions in ways previously unattainable. Herein, a Soft Magneto‐Mechano‐Chromic (SoMMeC) structure comprising a magnetic actuating and a synthetic photonic film, mirroring the intricate color‐tuning mechanism of chameleons is devised. A model combining numerical simulation and a strain‐dependent color evolution map enables precise predictions and controllable shape‐color alterations across various geometrical and magnetization profiles. The SoMMeC exhibits rapid (0.1s), broad (full‐visible spectrum), tether‐free (remote magnetic manipulation), and programmable (model‐guided control) color transformations, surpassing traditional limitations with its real‐time response, broad and omnidirectional coloration for enhanced visibility, and robustness against external disturbances. The SoMMeC translates into dynamic advertising iridescence, adaptive camouflage, self‐sensing, and multi‐level encryption, and transcends traditional robotics by seamlessly blending dynamic movement with nuanced visual changes. It opens up a spectrum of applications that redefine robotic functionality through dynamic appearance modulation, making robotic systems more versatile, adaptive, and suitable for unexplored integrative functions.
Photoconductance Induced by Excited‐State Intramolecular Proton Transfer (ESIPT) in Single‐Molecule Junctions
Authors: Wang Xu , Chen Haobing , Lei Yongjiu , Li Yunchuan , Xiao Bohuai
Published: November 2024

Excited‐state intramolecular Proton Transfer (ESIPT) molecules have been drawing considerable attention due to their unique photophysical properties and potential applications in optoelectronic devices. Although ground and excited‐state tautomerism in various proton transfer systems associated with ESIPT has been extensively studied both experimentally and theoretically, the charge‐transport characteristics of ESIPT molecules at the single‐molecule level has been little investigated. In this work, scanning tunneling microscope‐based fixed junction technique (STM‐FJ) is employed with theoretical calculations to explore the electronic properties of SMe‐PhOH (with ESIPT properties), together with its photoconductance induced by ESIPT photocycle processes under continuous light illumination (254/275/295/310 nm). The conductance variation of SMe‐PhOH with different UV wavelengths exhibits a continuous photoconductance distribution, which is highly consistent with the results of its UV–vis absorption spectrum. Theoretical calculations indicate that the interaction between localized HOMO and delocalized LUMO of SMe‐PhOH K*‐state gives rise to Fano resonance, thereby leading to enhanced conductance compared with its E‐state. It reveals the microscopic mechanism of ESIPT process at the nanoscale and provides a constructive perspective for optimizing the photoresponsive properties of ESIPT‐type molecules, as well as designing high‐performance single‐molecule devices.
Predicting Fatigue Damage in Hydrogels Through Force‐Induced Luminescence Enhancement
Authors: Ma Qi , Xiong Jiaofeng , Zhou Yawen , Zhang Shilong , Wang Jiayu , Li Weizheng , Zou Xiuyang , Yan Feng
Published: November 2024

Fatigue damage of polymers occurs under long‐term load cycling, resulting in irreversible fracture failure, which is difficult to predict. The real‐time monitoring of material fatigue damage is of great significance. Here, tough hydrogels are prepared with force‐induced confined luminescence enhancement of carbonated polymer quantum dot (CPD) clusters to realize the visualization of fracture process and the monitoring of fatigue damage. The enhanced interactions induced by force between the clusters and the polymer in the confined space inhibit the non‐radiative leaps and promote the radiative leaps to quantify the fatigue damage into optical signals. Rigid CPDs with abundant active sites on the surface can form dynamic reversible bonds with polymer and dissipate stress concentration, which significantly enhances the crack propagation strain (8000%) and fracture energy (26.4 kJ m−2) of hydrogels. CPD hydrogels have a wide range of applications in novel information encryption and luminescent robotics.
Impact of Static Electric Field on Dielectrophoretic Alignment of Silicon Nanowires
Authors: Hong Lia , Koo Doheon , Shin Hosan , Choi Suyeon , So Hongyun , Park Jae Byung , Park Woosung , Shin Jeeyoung
Published: November 2024

Among numerous approaches to assembling nanowires onto electrodes, dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a potential candidate to place the nanowires. However, its yield is still far from perfection, urging fundamental understanding of its dynamics. Here, the impact of a static electric field on dielectrophoretic nanowire assembly on gold electrodes is investigated. Specifically, a 4 peak‐to‐peak alternating voltage with 700 Hz is applied and modulate the offset voltage from 0 to 2V. The highest yield in the alignment of the nanowires at 0.5 V offset voltage is found. With the optical investigation of misaligned nanowires, it is found that rotating wires on top of electrodes, and the analysis of their angular velocity suggest the impact of the induced static charges. The numerical analysis quantifies the length scale of competing two forces, dielectrophoretic force and electric double layer force. This work suggests a quantitative understanding of the interplay between dielectrophoresis and electric double layer, which contributes to the advances in scalable nanowire fabrications.
Antipolyelectrolyte Response of Amphiphilic Sulfobetaine Polymer Coatings
Authors: Schardt Lisa , Da Vela Stefano , Guajardo Alejandro Martínez , Jaugstetter Maximilian , Tschulik Kristina , Laschewsky André , Rosenhahn Axel
Published: November 2024

Zwitterionic, amphiphilic polymer coatings are an effective strategy to decrease biofouling. Yet their performance strongly depends on the mechanical properties, the degree of swelling, and the structure of the swollen hydrogels. These properties depend on the zwitterionic groups in the polymers and the properties of the surrounding electrolyte. Therefore, the influence of the ions present and their concentrations on the swelling behavior of amphiphilic zwitterionic copolymers is studied. Coatings of 3‐[N‐2′‐(methacryloyloxy)ethyl‐N,N‐dimethyl]‐ammoniopropane‐1‐sulfonate (SPE) with increasing amounts of butyl‐methacrylate (BMA) are compared to the respective homopolymers PSPE and PBMA. Surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy shows a salt concentration‐dependent anti‐polyelectrolyte behavior. A variation of the salts revealed that the anions dominated the swelling response, while a change of cations has hardly any effect. Small angle X‐ray scattering reveals the morphological changes in the polymer films that accompanied the swelling. With increasing salt concentration, the internal structure changed from compact pores in a gel‐like network to elongated cylindrical pores at higher salinities. The understanding gained from the presented multi‐technique approach allows to understand the behavior of zwitterionic coatings in saline solutions and helps to tailor the swelling response and mechanical properties for future marine and medical low‐fouling applications.
Hydrosilane‐Functionalized [2.2]Paracyclophane for Plasma‐Etch‐Resistant and Post‐Modifiable Poly(Para‐Xylylene)
Authors: Bichlmaier Lukas , Teshima Tetsuhiko F. , Kostenko Arseni , Boustani George Al , Wilhelm Rebecca , Stigler Sebastian , Tanaka Shuma , Onoe Hiroaki , Wolfrum Bernhard , Inoue Shigeyoshi
Published: November 2024

Poly(para‐xylylene)s (PPXs), or so‐called parylenes, have become a well‐established polymer class in the conformal coating industry. Due to their transparent nature, low electrical conductivity, and high biocompatibility, they are ideal candidates for coating medical devices and other delicate electronics. However, the crosslinking of PPXs to enhance their durability is still challenging today. Expensive setups need to be used to obtain crosslinked PPXs. Furthermore, the possibility of functionalization post‐polymerization is limited. In this work, we present the synthesis of a hydrosilane functionalized [2.2]paracyclophane, which is used to obtain the corresponding hydrosilane functionalized poly(para‐xylylene) (PPX‐SiH). Through the formation of siloxane bonds during the low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition (LP‐CVD), which increases internal bonding, PPX‐SiH is obtained as a flexible and durable polymer film. The siloxane formation during the LP‐CVD is investigated through X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Additionally, mechanistic insights into the formation of siloxane bonds are given through quantum chemical calculation. The Si‐H bonds in the polymer allow for oxidation to form bridging siloxane moieties which enhances stretchability while also increasing the resistance to organic solvents. Through the passivation of the surface during oxygen plasma treatment, PPX‐SiH becomes practically plasma‐etch‐resistant.
Fully Solution‐Processed Polymeric Multilayer Piezoelectric Devices
Authors: Hu Shiyu , Zhang Yanguang , Wang Dongze , Weber John , Chang Shoude , Xiao Gaozhi , Lu Jianping , Graddage Neil , Gao Jun , Siddiqui Tahmid Rakin , Islam Suprabha , Kim Chun‐il , Tao Ye
Published: November 2024

This study demonstrates fully solution‐processed polymeric multilayer piezoelectric devices. The key challenge, the effective control of the redissolution issue that will cause severe electrical shorting and inconsistent piezoelectric output, is overcome by searching for and using a solvent that offers adequate solubility but extremely slow dissolution for the piezoelectric polymer. The solvent screening methodology is established and demonstrated. The process parameters is systematically optimized to maximize the piezoelectric performance of the multilayer devices. The multilayer devices can output a high charge density of 376 µC m−2, even higher than the record charge density of 250 µC m−2 achieved by traditional contact electrification‐based triboelectric nanogenerators operated in ambient air. The crucial factors for increasing device fabrication yield, namely resistance to short circuits and poling‐induced breakdown, are analyzed. The potential of multilayer devices in practical applications is demonstrated using a five‐layer device as a direct power source and energy harvester. More importantly, the process developed here is transferrable for cost‐effective high‐throughput roll‐to‐roll production. This work thus lays the foundation for the mass production of polymeric multilayer piezoelectric devices and paves the way for their future commercialization.
3D Printing of Highly Electrically Conductive Zinc for Sustainable Electronics Applications
Authors: Aeby Xavier , Yan Xiaomei , Huber Timon , Schneider Aaron , Siqueira Gilberto , Nyström Gustav
Published: November 2024

The increasing use of electronic devices raises concerns about resource availability and end‐of‐life management, particularly regarding conductors for interconnects and sensing elements. While gold and silver are the leading materials for interconnects, they pose challenges related to scarcity, cost, and toxicity. Zinc offers a promising alternative due to its good electrical conductivity, non‐toxicity, abundance, and affordability. However, challenges in achieving high conductivity and waste generation from processing techniques like screen‐printing remain. To address this, a zinc ink optimizes for 3D printing is proposed, using active zinc particles in a shellac matrix. The methods, including chemical and photonic sintering, achieve conductivities of up to 8.74•104 S m⁻¹ on paper substrates, with stable performance over a range of 30%–70% relative humidity at 15, 20, 25, and 30 °C respectively. Potential applications in high‐conductivity transducers for humidity sensing and metal‐air batteries are demonstrated, achieving a maximum power output of 3.5 mW and an open‐circuit voltage of 1.25 V. The integration of digital material assembly of zinc, reliable high‐performance operation, and non‐toxicity pave the way for innovative advancements in sustainable electronics, including applications in environmental sensing, e‐textiles, and healthcare.
Lead‐Sulfide‐Based Hybrid Inorganic‐Organic Superlattice Particles for Prominent Nonlinear Optical Absorption
Authors: Yang Lan , Boukhvalov Danil W. , Li Hui , Li Wenbo , Dai Sheng , Humphrey Mark G. , Zhang Chi , Huang Zhipeng
Published: November 2024

Simultaneously optimizing nonlinear absorption coefficient and modulation depth is a considerable challenge for nonlinear optical materials. Here we present an effective solution through constructing PbS2‐based inorganic‐organic superlattice. PbS2/Cn superlattice particles are synthesized, where n (4, 6, and 8) denotes the number of carbon atoms in the organic component. First‐principles simulations indicate the formation of covalent bonds and van der Waals interaction between PbS2 unit and interlayer organic molecules. All samples exhibit strong nonlinear absorption under femtosecond laser excitation with a wavelength range between 515 nm and 900 nm, and the nonlinear absorption coefficient increases with interlayer distance. The optimized sample, PbS2/C8, demonstrates outstanding nonlinear absorption and substantial modulation depth under 800 nm (the third‐order nonlinear absorption coefficient βeff, 10449 ± 609 cm GW−1; modulation depth, 39.1%) and 900 nm (the fifth‐order nonlinear absorption coefficient γeff, 6465 ± 68 cm3 GW−2; modulation depth, 88.1%), which exhibits saturable absorption under 515 nm (βeff, ‐4932 ± 818 cm GW−1; modulation depth, 48.1%). It exhibits a small optical limiting threshold of 1.23 mJ cm−2. These performances surpass those of typical single‐/few‐layer metal chalcogenides. Structural and spectral analyses elucidate that the remarkable optical nonlinearity can be attributed to quantum confinement in the inorganic layer and the dielectric enhancement of the superlattice.
High‐Efficiency and Low Efficiency Roll‐Off Blue‐Emission Crystalline Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes by embedding Triplet‐Triplet Annihilation Nanoaggregates
Authors: Zheng Wantao , Zhu Feng , Yan Donghang
Published: November 2024

Crystalline host matrix (CHM)‐nanoaggregates (NA) structure combines the advantages of a crystalline host matrix and high‐performance luminescent materials. This structure emerges as a highly effective strategy for achieving efficient blue organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). This approach can tackle the current challenge of achieving low voltage and high brightness in amorphous OLEDs. In this work, triplet‐triplet annihilation (TTA) material NA are embedded into CHM and sensitize the fluorescent dopant (D) BD1. As a result, a CHM‐TTANA‐D structure device is created, demonstrating an outstanding external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 8.46%. Notably, the efficiency roll‐off is mitigated. The device maintains an EQE of ≈7.50% at 1000 cd m−2, which is the highest values among blue crystalline OLEDs. The device leverages the benefits of CHM and exhibits swift turn‐on and a rapid increase in brightness and current density. This leads to a significant improvement in blue photon output and a reduced series‐resistance Joule heat loss ratio. The findings underscore the promising nature of the CHM‐TTANA‐D structure as a favorable design paradigm for high‐performance crystalline thin‐film OLEDs (C‐OLEDs).
Low‐Coordination Crystallographic Lattice Engineering to Discover Ce3+‐Activated Ultra‐Wide Visible‐to‐Near‐Infrared Luminescent Materials
Authors: Zhang Min , Dang Peipei , Zeng Zixun , Liu Dongjie , Wan Yujia , Wei Yi , Lian Hongzhou , Li Guogang , Lin Jun
Published: November 2024

Development of ultra‐broadband visible‐to‐near‐infrared (VIS‐NIR) luminescent materials is a challenging but rewarding endeavor, as they are highly desirable for a number of applications in photonics, optoelectronics, and biological sciences. Nevertheless, to date, rare earth‐doped phosphors that can be efficiently excited by blue light and produce broadband emission in the VIS‐NIR regions remain scarce. In this study, a series of Ce3+‐doped Ba3M4O9 (M = Sc, Lu, Y) broadband luminescent materials are designed based on low‐coordination crystallographic lattice engineering. Among these materials, Ba3Y4O9:Ce3+ produces a continuous ultra‐wide VIS‐NIR emission (λem = 660 nm) in the range of 500–950 nm under 410 nm light excitation. This emission wavelength is the longest among those observed in Ce3⁺‐doped oxide materials. Structural refinement, theoretical calculation, and spectral analysis demonstrate that this VIS‐NIR broadband emission is attributed to the occupying multiple distorted octahedral lattice sites by Ce3+ in Ba3Y4O9. Several strategies are employed to enhance the luminescence intensity and thermal stability of this material, including the use of carbon paper coating, the incorporation of co‐solvents, and the addition of GeO₂ or ZrO₂. Furthermore, the as‐prepared materials demonstrate multifunctional applications in white light‐emitting diodes (WLED), night vision, and fluorescent thermometers. This study offers insights into the design of Ce3+‐doped ultra‐wide VIS‐NIR light‐emitting materials.
Ultra‐Low Power Photosynaptic Devices Based on Persistent Photoconductivity‐Modulated SnO2
Authors: Lee Woo‐Jin , Sohn Sang‐Hyun , Park Il‐Kyu
Published: November 2024

Realizing visual perception performance using robust metal oxide devices is highly desirable for brain‐inspired neuromorphic computing, visual prosthetics, and artificial intelligence. SnO2, a representative transparent semiconductor, has attracted considerable attention for its potential in ultraviolet photodetectors and photosynaptic devices operating in solar‐blind spectral ranges. This problem has been circumvented by lowering the electron concentration and reducing the persistent photoconductivity (PPC), one of the essential properties of photosynaptic devices. In this case, the electron concentration and PPC properties in SnO2 must be controlled independently. This paper reports the successful control of PPC in SnO2 by controllable addition of Zn and Sr ions, which act as acceptors to annihilate the charge carriers and as a reductant to form oxygen vacancies, respectively. Zn and Sr‐added SnO2 exhibits superior synaptic performance with low energy consumption, successfully imitating the biological synapses without a gate electrode. As a result, the PPC remains at about 40% even after 20 seconds of turning off the ultraviolet light, and energy consumption is reduced to 1–10 fJ, similar to energy consumption with biological synapses. A novel optical sensor that can receive analog signals is demonstrated using a photosynaptic device with Zn and Sr‐added SnO2 thin films.
Advancements in Cancer Research: 3D Models, Single‐Cell, and Live‐Cell Techniques for Better Insights
Authors: Carnevali Federica , Forciniti Stefania , Onesto Valentina , Siciliano Anna Chiara , Iuele Helena , Grasso Giuliana , da Cruz Anderson Fraga , Serra Ilaria , Depalma Norma , D'Ugo Stefano , Piscitelli Prisco , Spampinato Marcello G. , Gigli Giuseppe , Camargo de Oliveira Carolina , del Mercato Loretta L.
Published: November 2024

The present review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of in vitro cancer studies, focusing on recent advancements and ongoing in cell culture models and analyses techniques. Cancer cells grow in a complex and dynamic environment, interacting with various cellular components, such as stromal cells, cancer‐associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and the extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM provides structural support and unique characteristics essential for tumorigenesis. Accurately modeling this intricate tumor microenvironment and precisely analyzing cell–cell and cell–ECM interactions are crucial for understanding cancer progression and therapeutic responses. Consequently, oncology research is advancing toward a) three‐dimensional tumor models, b) single‐cell level analyses, and c) live‐cell analyses. This review aims to elucidate current knowledge in this field, emphasizing the benefits these innovative approaches offer over traditional two‐dimensional models, bulk analyses, and endpoint measurements.
pH‐Dependent Assembly and Stability of Toll‐Like Receptor 3/dsRNA Signaling Complex: Insights from Constant pH Molecular Dynamics and Metadynamics Simulations
Authors: Li Penghui , Shi Mingsong , Wang Yibo , Liu Qiong , Du Xiubo , Wang Xiaohui
Published: November 2024

The pH‐dependent assembly of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs), which triggers a threshold‐like response, is a key principle in immune signaling. While crystallography has revealed the intricate structure of these assembly complexes, the mechanisms underlying their pH dependency remain unclear. Herein, constant pH simulations and metadynamics are employed to investigate the pH‐dependent assembly and stability of the TLR3/dsRNA signaling complex. The findings demonstrate that system pH regulates complex assembly and stability by modulating the protonation and charge states of histidines. Histidines in TLR3 act as pH‐dependent, positively charged binding sites that capture negatively charged dsRNA. Additionally, these histidines form a [H682⁺]—[E626⁻] dipole, facilitating the assembly of two TLR3 molecules into an antisymmetric dimer through dipole–dipole interactions. Surprisingly, TLR3 can shift the pKa values of key histidines from their model pKa of 6.5, increasing protonation likelihood and enhancing ligand binding. Notably, the aromatic residue Phe84, located within the dsRNA binding site [His39⁺–His60⁺–Phe84–His108⁺], alters the pKa of His60 through cation‐π interactions with its protonated state. This study offers new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying pH‐dependent immune signaling via higher‐order assemblies and suggests potential applications for histidine in self‐assembling biomaterials.
The Impact of Non‐Monolithic Semiconductor Capacitance on Organic Electrochemical Transistors Performance and Design
Authors: Dreamer Ned E. , Koutsouras Dimitrios A. , Hassanpour Amiri Morteza , Gkoupidenis Paschalis , Asadi Kamal
Published: November 2024

The existing device models for organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) fail to provide any device design guidelines for optimized performance parameters such as transconductance that are pivotal for the applications OECTs in sensing. Moreover, the current models are based on the questionable assumption of a homogenous organic semiconductor layer, and all predict a linear behavior of the resistance with the OECT channel length. Consequently, the experimentally observed nonlinear resistance behavior in OECTs has been overlooked thus far. Here, an OECT device model is developed that accurately describes the nonlinear behavior of the OECT channel resistance and offers the first guidelines for maximizing transconductance. The model is inherently nonlinear and the nonlinearity stem from the non‐monolithic capacitance of the organic semiconductor layer. Moreover, the model provides a consistent and reliable estimations for the contact resistance in OECTs. The success of the model in accurately describing and providing predictions of the OECT operation by relating the device's geometrical parameters with electrochemical parameters of the semiconductor layer paves the way toward unlocking OECT potentials in diverse applications, from biosensing to neuromorphic computing and flexible electronics.
Highly Reversible Sodium Metal Batteries Enabled by Extraordinary Alloying Reaction of Single‐Atom Antimony
Authors: Zhao Si , Chen Xudong , Wang Yan , Hong Zhensheng , Zheng Lituo , Zhang Yan , Wei Mingdeng , Lu Jun
Published: November 2024

The unique coordination configuration of single‐atom materials (SAMs) allows precise reaction control at atomic‐level and a potential of unusual electrochemical reaction. Nevertheless, it is a big challenge to prepare main group element with high loading content. Here, multifield‐regulated synthesis (MRS) technology is utilized to rapidly produce single‐atom antimony (Sb) metal with a high loading of 15 wt.%. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations reveal the significantly enhanced reaction kinetics of Sb and nitrogen‐doped graphene by multi‐physics field coupling. Compared with common metallic Sb nanoparticles, atomically dispersed Sb displays remarkably improved electrochemical reaction kinetics and stable structure due to the negligible variation of stresses and volume expansion during the pseudocapacitive alloying‐dealloying process. Such extraordinary alloying reaction in well‐dispersed Sb atoms enabling homogeneous ion flow can serve as active nucleation sites for regulating even Na metal nucleation and growth. As a result, copper foil coated with only ≈3 µm thickness of such material exhibits a high Coulombic efficiency of up to 99.99%, an ultra‐low overpotential of 3 mV, and a long lifetime exceeding 2500 h in symmetrical cells. Furthermore, an anode‐free MRS‐SbSA||Na3V2(PO4)3 battery is constructed, which demonstrates exceptionally high energy density (≈362 Wh Kg−1), outstanding rate capability and good cycling stability.
Modulating Local Oxygen Coordination to Achieve Highly Reversible Anionic Redox and Negligible Voltage Decay in O2‐Type Layered Cathodes for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Xiaoxia , Wang Kai , Zhang Jilu , Li Hang , Liu Hao , Zhao Tian , Zhai Xinyue , Wang Qin , Fan Chengjun , Etter Martin , Indris Sylvio , Hua Weibo , Ouyang Xiaoping
Published: November 2024

O2‐type layered oxides have emerged as promising cathode materials for high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries, offering a solution to mitigate voltage decay through reversible transition metal (TM) migration between TM and Li layers during cycling. However, achieving a fully reversible oxygen redox remains a significant challenge. Here, this is addressed by introducing Li─O─Li configurations in the layered structure of Li0.85□0.15[Li0.08□0.04Ni0.22Mn0.66]O2 (O2‐LLNMO), where □ represents vacancies. This adjustment alters the redox‐active oxygen environment and increases the energy gap between the O 2p nonbonding and TM─O antibonding bands. As a result, the contribution of lattice oxygen to capacity is significantly enhanced, improving the reversibility of oxygen redox processes. The O2‐LLNMO cathode demonstrates minimal voltage decay (0.13 mV per cycle) and excellent cycling stability, retaining 95.8% of its capacity after 100 cycles. A novel strategy is presented to design high‐performance layered oxides with stable anionic redox activity, advancing the development of next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries.
Bipolar Membranes With Controlled, Microscale 3D Junctions Enhance the Rates of Water Dissociation and Formation
Authors: Gao Tianyue , Schulte Leanna , Xiao Langqiu , Yamamoto Eisuke , Metlay Amy S. , Sheehan Colton J. , Marth Sariah , Park Heemin , Sasmal Sayantan , Galang Francisco J. , Bae Chulsung , Weber Adam Z. , Boettcher Shannon W. , Mallouk Thomas E.
Published: November 2024

A soft lithographic method is developed for making bipolar membranes (BPMs) with catalytic junctions formed from arrays of vertically oriented microscale cylinders. The membranes are cast from reusable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) molds made from silicon masters, which are fabricated on 2″ to 4″ wafer scales by nanosphere lithography. High‐aspect‐ratio junctions are made on a length scale similar to the thickness of optimized catalyst layers for water dissociation, creating a platform for probing the dual effects of catalysis and local electric field at the microscale BPM junction. Optimized polymer materials and nanoscale metal oxide catalysts are used in this study. 3D BPMs are tested under reverse and forward bias conditions, exhibiting superior performance relative to their 2D counterparts. Under forward bias in H2‐O2 fuel cells, 3D BPMs achieve a current density of 1500 mA cm−2, ≈7 times higher than 2D membranes made from the same materials.
Combing mobile electrical capacitance tomography with Fourier neural operator for 3D fluidized beds measurement
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Li Anqi , Li Chenggong , Li Xue , Ye Mao , Liu Zhongmin
Published: November 2024

Despite the practical importance, 3D measurements of gas–solid distribution in fluidized beds calls for further breakthroughs. Here an approach combing a recently developed mobile electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) sensor with Fourier Neural Operator (FNO) is developed, in which the fluidized bed is divided into a series of cross‐sectional slices along axial direction. At any given instant, the gas–solid distribution in one slice is measured by mobile ECT and the others, meantime, are predicted by FNO pre‐trained using experimental data. We verified this approach via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and experimental measurement of static object (i.e., cone, cylinder, and sphere) in fluidized bed. Following we applied this approach to direct measure 3D gas–solid distribution in a bubbling fluidized bed, and found that satisfactory image correlation coefficients and solid concentration average absolute deviation could be obtained, which indicates the proposed approach is promising for 3D fluidized bed measurements.
A second RUBCN variant associated with epileptic encephalopathy and neurodevelopmental delay
Authors: Magalie Lodin‐Pasquier , Yline Capri , Olivier Patat , Blandine Dozières‐Puyravel , Nathalie Couque
Published: November 2024

The RUBCN gene encodes a widely expressed protein called Rubicon, the main function of which is to negatively regulate macroautophagy. A single homozygous pathogenic variant of the RUBCN gene has been reported to date in two unrelated consanguineous Saudi families with spinocerebellar ataxia autosomal recessive 15 (OMIM#613516). This variant is responsible for the deletion of the highly conserved Rubicon Homology (RH) domain, which is important for the colocalization of Rubicon with Rab7 in the late endosome. In this work, we describe a female patient with childhood‐onset epileptic encephalopathy and neurodevelopmental delay carrying a novel homozygous variant in RUBCN (NM_014687.3: c.2126 + 1G>A). A functional study of the RNA revealed that this variant completely abolishes the consensus donor site at the exon 14/intron 14 junction, resulting in the absence of expression of the reference transcript. Two alternative transcripts were expressed: a major transcript resulting from activation of an alternative exonic splice site and a minor transcript with skipping of exon 14. The two alternative transcripts lead to a shift in the reading frame introducing a premature stop codon. The resulting truncated protein lacks the RH domain, which may lead to defective endosomal trafficking as previously described. To our best knowledge, this is the first report of an impairment of RUBCN caused by a splice variant.
Design for a Solid‐State Luminescent Sensor Through Photo‐Induced Electron Transfer Based on Pyrene‐Modified o‐Carborane
Authors: Nishiyama Shunsuke , Ochi Junki , Tanaka Kazuo
Published: November 2024

Aryl‐tethered o‐carboranes have attracted attention as a platform for obtaining functional solid‐state luminescent materials with stimuli‐responsiveness. To extend the versatility and applicability for advanced sensing technologies, it is essential to establish new mechanisms for regulating solid‐state luminescent properties. In this study, we demonstrate the regulation of solid‐state luminescent properties of the modified o‐carborane through photo‐induced electron transfer. We synthesized the triad based on o‐carborane modified with pyrene as a luminophore from intermolecular charge transfer and diethylaniline as a quencher. In the pristine solid state, significant emission was hardly observed due to emission quenching through photo‐induced electron transfer, while intense emission was recovered by acid vapor fuming for protonation at the diethylaniline moiety. Moreover, we confirmed that reversible changes underwent by amine vapor fuming. These results mean that solid‐state luminescent properties of o‐carborane can be controlled by the commodity photochemical process according to the molecular design.
The relationship between cause of death and skeletal markers of physiological stress in the Hamann‐Todd collection
Authors: Simon Allyson M. , Mellendorf Tempest D. , Cheverko Colleen M. , Clark Melissa A. , Hubbe Mark
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Socioeconomic status, past stress events, and other factors may contribute to the cumulative burden of physiological stress, which influences an individual's susceptibility to mortality and cause of death (COD). Here, we explore the association between skeletal evidence of stress and COD in the Hamann‐Todd Osteological Collection (HTOC), a predominantly low socioeconomic status sample from the late 19th and early 20th century.

Materials and Methods

Skeletal markers of stress including linear enamel hypoplasia (LEH), stature, and antemortem tooth loss (AMTL) were analyzed in 298 individuals in the HTOC. Recorded CODs were grouped into six broad categories and contrasted with stress indicators, ages‐at‐death, and demographic variables, using various parametric and non‐parametric statistical tests.

Results

COD varied by socially ascribed race and sex within the sample. Overall, infectious diseases were more prevalent than degenerative diseases. Individuals that died of infectious diseases had significantly lower ages‐at‐death compared to degenerative diseases (p < 0.001). There was no association between LEH and COD (χ2 = 4.449, p = 0.487). Stature varied significantly across COD categories for males (F = 2.534, p = 0.032), but not females (F = 1.733, p = 0.132). Controlling for age‐at‐death, AMTL prevalence was associated with COD (H = 18.53, p = 0.002), with cardiovascular disease being associated with higher prevalence of AMTL.

Discussion

These findings show that some skeletal stress indicators are associated with COD in the HTOC, but the causal pathways of these relationships are not clear. This study adds to growing bodies of literature exploring relationships between past stress events and susceptibility to mortality and long‐term consequences of poor living conditions for past individuals.
Versatile Mechanochemical Reactions Via Tailored Force Transmission in Mechanophores
Authors: Xu Deao , Liu Wenjie , Tian Shijia , Qian Hai
Published: November 2024

In polymer mechanochemistry, regulating the intrinsic mechanical reactivity of a mechanophore offers extensive opportunities in material science, enabling the development of hierarchical and multifunctional polymer‐based materials. Recent advances have focused on innovating various types of mechanophores with inherent reactivity (e.g. regioselectivity and stereoselectivity). However, little attention has been given to modulating their reactivity by tailoring force transmission within mechanophores. Here, we introduce a novel approach through the implementation of a cyclic pulling geometry into an anthracene‐maleimide (AM) mechanophore. This approach manipulates force transmission within the mechanophore and effectively regulates its reactivity from 0.0160 min−1 to 0.00133 min−1, achieving up to a 12‐fold change. Mechanochemical coupling analysis indicates that the split force transmission along ring chains contributes to the significant difference in mechanochemical reactivity. By leveraging the distinct force transmission pathways within cyclic and linear AM mechanophores, we covalently integrate them with a spiropyran mechanophore to design tandem mechanophore systems for hierarchical mechanochemical activation. These findings highlight the efficacy and versatility of the cyclic pulling strategy in modulating mechanophore reactivity, providing valuable insights for the design of tunable multifunctional polymer‐based materials.
Enhancing the Efficiency and Stability of Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells and Modules through Top Interface Modification with N‐type Semiconductors
Authors: Liu Qiuju , Ding Lei , Fu Jianfei , Zheng Bolin , Yu Dongsheng , Bai Hua , Tian Qingyong , Fan Bin , Liu Yanfeng , Pang Shuping , Liu Yang
Published: November 2024

The interface modification between perovskite and electron transport layer (ETL) plays a crucial role in achieving high performance inverted perovskite photovoltaics (i‐PPVs). Herein, non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs), known as Y6‐BO and Y7‐BO, were utilized to modify the perovskite/ETL interface in i‐PPVs. Non‐polar solvent‐soluble NFAs can effectively passivate surface defects without structural damage of the underlying perovskite films. Additionally, the improved phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) ETL induced by NFAs modification significantly accelerates the electrons extraction. As a result, both Y6‐BO and Y7‐BO exhibit more effective interface modification effects compared to traditional PI molecules. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the inverted perovskite solar cell (i‐PSC) modified with Y7‐BO reaches 25.82 %. Moreover, the adoption of non‐polar solvents and the superior semiconductor properties of Y7‐BO molecules also enable perovskite solar modules (i‐PSM) with effective areas of 50 cm2, 400 cm2, and 1160 cm2 to achieve record efficiencies of 23.05 %, 22.32 %, and 21.1 % (certified PCE), respectively, making them the best PCE reported in the literature. Importantly, enhanced interface mechanical strength between the perovskite and PCBM layer results in significantly improved environmental and operational stability of the cells. The cells modified with Y7‐BO maintained 94.4 % of the initial efficiency after 1522 hours of maximum power point aging.
Highly Selective On‐Surface Dehydrogenative Aromatization of n‐Hexyl to Phenyl Substituents
Authors: Wang Lina , Liu Ye , Xie Miao , Han Yi , Chen Liangliang , Xue Renjie , Li Hailong , Zhang Xisha , Zhang Deqing , Zhong Qigang , Chen Qiang , Zhang Haiming , Müllen Klaus , Chi Lifeng
Published: November 2024

Dehydrogenative aromatization of alkyl substituents represents a powerful approach to aryl‐substituted functional molecules. However, the inertness of alkyl groups and the need for harsh reaction conditions accompanied by low product selectivity hamper its widespread applications. Here, we demonstrate the highly selective on‐surface thermal aromatization of n‐hexyl substituents on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to their phenyl‐substituted analogues under mild conditions. After depositing two representative precursor molecules, n‐hexyl‐substituted hexaphenylbenzene (HPB‐Hex) and bianthryl octacarboxylic tetraimide (BATI‐Hex), onto a pre‐heated Au(111) substrate, dehydroaromatization of the peripheral n‐hexyl groups into phenyl rings occurs, following the planarization of hexaphenylbenzene and bianthryl core. This process involves sequential intramolecular C−C bond rotations, dehydrogenation, and cyclodehydrogenation reactions, yielding phenyl‐substituted hexabenzocoronene (HBC‐Ph) and bisanthene octacarboxylic tetraimides (BSTI‐Ph). The reaction sequences were monitored using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and bond‐resolved non‐contact atomic force microscopy (nc‐AFM), offering structural proof of both intermediates and final products. These experimental techniques were complemented by density functional theory (DFT) simulations, which facilitated the detection of crucial steps in the conversion of n‐hexyl to phenyl groups. Moreover, the effect of alkyl aromatization on the electronic properties of the newly formed aromatic hydrocarbons was elucidated using scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS).
Side Chain Phenyl Isomerization‐Induced Spatial Conjugation for Achieving Efficient Near‐Infrared II Phototheranostic Agents
Authors: Li Chunbin , Yao Mengfan , Jiang Guoyu , Feng Lina , Wu Yifan , Sha Renmanduhu , Li Yonghai , Tang Ben Zhong , Wang Jianguo
Published: November 2024

The contradiction of near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) emission and photothermal effects limits the development of phototheranostic agents (PTAs) in many emerging cutting‐edge applications. Organic aggregates present a promising opportunity for the balance of competitive relaxation processes through the manipulation of molecular structure and packing. Herein, side chain phenyl isomerization‐induced spatial conjugation was proposed for constructing A‐D‐A type NIR‐II PTAs with simultaneous enhancement of fluorescence brightness and photothermal properties. Three pairs of mutually isomeric fluorophores, whose phenyls respectively located at the outside (o‐series) and inside (i‐series) of the side chain, were designed and synthesized. The positional isomerization of the phenyl endows the o‐series crystals with strong spatial conjugation between the phenyl group on the side chain and the backbone, as well as interlocked planar network, which is different to that observed in the i‐series. Thus, all o‐series nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit red‐shifted absorption, enhanced NIR‐II emission, and superior photothermal properties than their i‐series counterparts. A prominent member of the o‐series, o‐ITNP NPs, demonstrated efficacy in facilitating NIR‐II angiography, tumor localization, and NIR‐II imaging‐guided tumor photothermal therapy. The success of this side chain phenyl isomerization strategy paves the way for precise control of the aggregation behavior and for further development of efficient NIR‐II PTAs.
Achieving a Thermodynamic Self‐Regulation Dynamic Adsorption Mechanism for Ammonia Synthesis through Selective Orbital Coupling
Authors: Dai Tian‐Yi , Shi Hang , Wang Tong‐Hui , Lang Xing‐You , Jiang Qing
Published: November 2024

With the continuous pursuing on the improvement of catalytic activity, a catalyst performed exceeding catalytic volcano plots is desired, while it is impeded by the adsorption‐energy scaling relations of reaction intermediates. Numerous efforts have been focused on optimizing the initial and final intermediates to circumvent the scaling relations for an improved performance. For a step forward, simultaneously optimizing all intermediates is essential to explore the theoretical maximum of catalytic activity. Herein, we proposed a dynamic adsorption mechanism (DAM) to independently regulate the adsorption configurations of all intermediates of electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). To demonstrate the DAM, a multi‐site NbNi3 intermetallic is developed, which enables suitable adsorption energies of different intermediates via modulating orbital coupling mechanisms. As a result, NbNi3 achieves an ultra‐low limiting potential of NRR of −0.11 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). Strikingly, the theoretical result is confirmed by a proof‐of‐concept experiment, wherein the nanoporous NbNi3 electrode exhibits a remarkable NH3 yield rate of 25.89 μg h−1 cm−2 with the Faradaic efficiency of 33.15 % at −0.25 V vs. RHE. Overall, this work brings out a new strategy to avoid the scaling relations, and opens up a promising avenue toward high‐efficiency NRR catalysts.
Roasted sesame oil: A review on production technology, flavor chemistry, and other related issues
Authors: Xu Haoyu , Liu Huamin , Yin Wenting , Xiong Xinjie , Xu Xuebing
Published: November 2024

Sesame oil (SO) produced through roasting technology offers pleasant flavor, often named roasted sesame oil (RSO) in the market. During the RSO production process, roasting is an essential technology in determining the flavor of RSO, which directly influences the consumer acceptance. Therefore, the present work systematically offers current knowledge on flavors and related issues of RSO, which will focus on production technologies (i.e., roasting technology, extraction technology, subsequent processing technology), flavor characteristics and flavor compounds, formation pathways of major flavor compounds (i.e., Maillard reaction pathway, oil oxidation pathway, thermal degradation pathway), and effects of roasting on the nutrition and safety. In addition, the present work provides an outlook for the future development of RSO industry, including the establishment of a grading system for the evaluation of RSO flavors, high‐value utilization of by‐products from RSO processing, and how to improve production efficiency of RSO. This work could provide a better understanding of RSO roasting process and promising information for better production of aromatic, nutritious and safe RSO by controlling/innovating the roasting process.
Facile fabrication of dasatinib laden multifunctional polymeric micelles: Evaluation of anti‐proliferative and apoptotic activities in human cancer cells
Authors: Menon Soumya V. , Thakore Sanketsinh , Verma Ashish , Dhadda Surbhi , Chinnathambi Arunachalam , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , Bharathi Muruganantham , Arulselvan Palanisamy , Thangavelu Indumathi
Published: November 2024

Dasatinib (DAS) has recently gained significant interest for its anticancer potential. Yet, the lipophilicity inherent in DAS limited its potential use as a chemotherapeutic drug. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of polyethylene glycol‐polycaprolactone (PEG‐PCL) as a nanocarrier for DAS to increase its anticancer capabilities. The DAS‐loaded PEG‐PCL nanoparticles (termed as DAS@PEG‐PCL NPs) were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Morphological staining and MTT tests were employed to investigate drug‐loaded nanoparticles' apoptotic and anti‐proliferative effects. The MTT assay demonstrated that incorporating DAS onto PEG‐PCL NPs resulted in a dose‐dependent increase in cytotoxicity in A549 (lung cancer) and HeLa (cervical cancer) cells. The A549 cancer cells were analyzed for their morphology using the acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) and DAPI staining techniques. Overall, these findings demonstrate that the polymeric PEG‐PCL nanoparticle systems hold great potential as a novel therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
Comparison of the ablative performance of silicone rubber‐based composites by analyzing a large number of samples
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhou Chuxiang , Lu Zhaohui , Tian Yue , Tian Jinfeng , Chi Xiaofeng , Yan Liwei , Gai Jinggang , Zhou Shengtai , Liang Mei , Zou Huawei
Published: November 2024

Silicone rubber‐based materials are important thermal protection materials for high‐temperature applications. In this work, a holistic analysis of silicone rubber‐based materials was conducted with an aim to comparatively study the ablative performance of different rubber matrices using the oxyacetylene flame. Six types of silicone rubber‐based composites were prepared in large quantities using a customized device, and the relationship between the ablative properties and influencing factors was elucidated, which was useful in guiding the design and preparation of flexible ablative materials for thermal protection purpose. The expansion and ceramicization of char layer, which was realized by introducing expandable graphite and alumina was found helpful in reducing line ablation rate. The increase in the thickness of char layer and the decrease in surface roughness indicated a successful implementation of the above strategy, which led to a significant decrease in line ablation rate and an increase in thermal insulation performance of the studied system. Moreover, a thermal ablative composite with excellent moldability after ablation process was prepared which showed a promising application as a reusable thermal protection material. This work provided guidelines for developing flexible thermal ablative composites, which can be targeted for practical applications in aerospace and fire protection sectors.