bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polypyrrole@TiO2 Composite Nanotube System with Enhanced Capillary Fluid and Charge Transfer for High‐Current Hydrovoltaic Energy Generation and Seawater Purification
Authors: Xiao Haoyuan , Zhu Jingshuai , Ding Lei , Zheng Jiaxin , Liu Chen , Du Bing , Chen Shiguo , Wang Yuanfeng
Published: September 2024

Harnessing the energy generated from the evaporation of water has received considerable research attention in materials science; however, challenges such as poor conversion efficiency and low current output persist. Herein, an innovative synergistic material system based on titanium dioxide nanotubes coated with polypyrrole (PPy@TiO2NTs) is introduced for the simultaneous production of electricity and clean water from solar energy and seawater. The tubular structure of PPy@TiO2NT and the molecular interactions between TiO2 and PPy produce enhanced charge transfer, thereby providing the advantages of the hydrovoltaic effect, solar‐driven water evaporation (SWE), and photocatalysis. Consequently, PPy@TiO2NT‐loaded melamine foam can produce tens or more than a hundred microamperes of current in water of various salinities, which is an order of magnitude improvement over previously reported hydrovoltaic evaporation systems. In addition, under 1 sun irradiation, the system achieved an SWE rate of 2.13 kg m−2 h−1 and a methylene blue removal rate of more than 90% within 2 h. The proposed material system, featuring high electrical output and outstanding dual‐mechanism water treatment capabilities, shows high potential for synergistically harnessing solar energy and seawater, as well as for environmental management.
Hydrogel‐Waveguiding On‐Chip Meta‐Optics for Dynamic Multicolor Holography
Authors: Li Xinglong , Dai Chenjie , Shi Yangyang , Wan Shuai , Li Zhe , Dai Wei , Guan Zhiqiang , Li Zhongyang
Published: September 2024

On‐chip integrated meta‐optics hold tremendous potential for optical imaging and display applications compatible with integrated photonic devices. Despite recent endeavors in multi‐dimensional image display, it remains a challenge to realize dynamic holography applications with on‐chip integration scheme and facile accessible tuning approach. Herein, an on‐chip hydrogel‐waveguiding platform with single‐step fabrication is demonstrated for dynamic colorful holography. By exploiting the optical tunable property of the waveguiding hydrogel, the on‐chip hydrogel metasurface enables optical concealment ON/OFF and dynamic dual‐channel holographic switch within 310 ms through a simple exhalation process. Furthermore, utilizing the waveguiding hydrogel dispersion and the correlation between extraction efficiency and relative humidity, a color‐mixed holographic image is encrypted and successfully exhibited at specific humidity condition. Beyond the conventional static on‐chip monochromatic holography, such a dynamic on‐chip hydrogel platform enjoys satisfactory humidity‐responsivity, high integration capability, full‐color potential, and zero‐order diffraction interference‐free, which suggests potential applications in active optical information concealment/encryption, full‐color holography, and next‐generation wearable AR devices.
Biomolecular Neuristors from Functionalized Lipid Membranes
Authors: Makhoul Mansour Michelle , Maraj Joshua J. , Pyron Robert Jordan , Barrera Francisco N. , Sarles Stephen A.
Published: September 2024

Modeled after biological neurons, neuristors are emerging hardware that generate recurring voltage spikes in response to electrical stimulation. This type of excitability can enable transistor‐free spiking neural networks for efficient signal processing and computing. Yet, most neuristors consist of circuits containing numerous devices, thus complicating fabrication and increasing size, power usage, and cost. In contrast, it is shown that a single, 5nm‐thick lipid membrane functionalized with voltage‐activated peptides functions as a two‐terminal, ultra‐low power (fW‐pW) artificial neuristor in response to supplied current. Specifically, the biomolecular membrane generates stochastic voltage oscillations (10–150 mV) in response to direct currents (|5–40| pA), and is capable of generating two distinct types of action potentials fast (≈1–50 ms) and slow (≈1–2 s) spikes via distinct physical mechanisms. This discovery showcases the inherent multifunctionality and modularity of engineered biomembranes, and it contributes to an expanding suite of ionic and biomolecular devices designed with synapse and neuron functionalities for emerging computing architectures.
Fully Flexible All‐in‐One Electronic Display Skin with Seamless Integration of MicroLED and Hydrogel Battery
Authors: Niu Jianan , Bai Xue , Wang Jiangwen , Chen Yingyi , Zhao Bingqi , Sha Wei , Long Yong , Wang Zhonglin , Hu Weiguo
Published: September 2024

Visualization is a cornerstone in human–computer interaction, evolving from large screens to mobile devices and now to wearable display technology. However, conventional batteries and displays lack the softness and stretchability inherent to human skin. Here, a fully flexible, all‐in‐one electronic display skin by integrating a flexible microLED display, a stretchable circuit, and a Zn|PAM|V2O5 hydrogel battery pack is developed. Vapor‐phase bulk transfer is used to efficiently and accurately transfer 10 000 microLEDs onto a flexible substrate, ensuring high flexibility and ultra‐thin (240 µm). The flexible hydrogel battery pack provides sustainable energy, with a high specific capacity of 331.3 mAh g−1. Additionally, a transparent stretchable circuit board (maximum stretch 40%) is made by 3D printing technology. The skin display exhibited exceptional stretchability and biocompatibility, conforming to movements while maintaining high‐resolution dynamic visual outputs. These innovations pave the way for advanced skin‐implanted displays, promising transformative applications in information interaction, healthcare, and artificial intelligence.
3D Printable κ‐Carrageenan‐Based Granular Hydrogels
Authors: Bono Francesca , Strässle Zuniga Sophie Hélène , Amstad Esther
Published: September 2024

κ‐carrageenan, an algae‐extracted polysaccharide known for its emulsifying properties, is widely used in food and beauty products. Because of its abundance in nature, similarity to natural glycosaminoglycans, and biocompatibility, it is a promising alternative to animal gelatin for tissue engineering. Key to the more widespread use of κ‐carrageenan for biomedical applications is its processability, which is hampered by its temperature‐dependent rheological properties. Here, a κ‐carrageenan‐based ink is introduced that can be 3D printed at room temperature through direct ink writing (DIW). This is achieved by formulating κ‐carrageenan as microgels that are covalently crosslinked through a second network, resulting in double network granular hydrogels (DNGHs). These DNGHs can be stiffened to reach stiffnesses up to 0.9 MPa under tension and 1.1 MPa under compression through the addition of metal ions and glucose. The metal/glucose reinforcement also increases the work of fracture up to 1.1 MJ m−3, exceeding that of unmodified κ‐carrageenan DNGHs 50‐fold. The potential of the ink by room temperature 3D printing cm‐sized free‐standing load‐bearing structures is demonstrated. This ink is envisaged to be a well‐suited algae‐derived alternative for the animal‐based gelatin for tissue engineering and in food applications for example as soft confectionery products.
Enhanced Dielectric Loss Induced by Asymmetrically Coordinated Iron Single‐Atoms with Curved Configurations on Turing‐Like Surfaces for Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Ma Ziqian , Shen Yu , Zhang Xiao , Li Bei , Chen Yujin , Zhu Chunling
Published: September 2024

Curved support can significantly change the electronic structure of a metal single‐atom (M‐SA) and thereby fine tune its intrinsic physicochemical properties. However, constructing asymmetrically coordinated M‐SAs on highly curved supports remains challenging. Here, an efficient strategy driven by the different thermal decomposition rates of two polymers is proposed to create Turing surface with highly curved stripes on hollow carbon spheres (HCSs) for anchoring asymmetrically coordinated Fe‐N3S1 moieties. Experimental and theoretical calculation results reveal that asymmetric Fe‐N3S1 atoms and the strain of Fe─N bonds induced by the highly curved Turing surface efficiently break the symmetric distribution of the charge around the Fe atoms and significantly enhance the dielectric loss of the HCSs, thereby synergistically improving the electromagnetic wave absorption property. Remarkably, the film constructed with Fe‐N3S1‐anchored HCSs and natural rubber exhibits a wide effective absorption bandwidth of 7.68 GHz at a filling ratio of 6%. Moreover, the film also possesses excellent hydrophobicity, frost‐resistant ability, adhesiveness, flexibility, stretchability, and heat‐dispersion ability, which expand its practical applications into various environments. This work provides insights into the synergistic effects of asymmetrically coordinated configurations and curved supports of M‐SAs on their dielectric properties and offers a new method for the preparation of multifunctional films.
Dual‐Carbon Assisted Oxygen Vacancy Engineering for Optimizing Mn(III) Sites to Enhance Zn–air Battery Performances
Authors: Zhou Benji , Xu Nengneng , Lu Tuo , Wang Yongxia , Lou Shuaifeng , Cai Dongqing , Wu Liangcai , Yang Woochul , Liu Guicheng , Lee Joong Kee , Qiao Jinli
Published: September 2024

Owing to kinetic‐sluggish nature of electrocatalytic oxygen transformation processes, it is pivotal to develop durable and efficient bifunctional air electrode catalysts for fabricating high‐performance Zn–air batteries (ZABs). In this work, oxygen vacancy (Ov) induced Mn(III) sites optimization is achieved via nano‐micro structure modulation. Protonated carbon nitride (p‐C3N4) is applied as a structure‐stiffening module to immobilize α‐MnO2 on N/P‐doped active carbon (NPAC) and induce Ov construction. X‐ray adsorption spectra (XAS) disclose the formation of Ov and Mn(III) sites in MCC, the unit coordination structure is well maintained with the aid of a dual‐carbon strategy. Mn(III) sites efficiently catalyze oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER), MCC shows high half‐wave potential (E1/2) of 0.88 V for ORR and low potential at 10 mA cm−2 (Ej = 10) of 1.64 V for OER. According to density functional theory (DFT) simulations analysis, the gorgeous bifunctional activity is owing to that optimized charge distribution facilitates the intermediates transformation. Aqueous ZABs based on MCC manifests high peak power density of 452 mW cm−2 and durable cycling stability of 1640 h. Quasi‐solid‐state ZABs based on MCC also show satisfactory performances (175 mW cm−2, 105 h). This work provides the route to develop efficient and durable electrocatalyst for constructing ZABs with long lifespan and high‐power‐density.
Magnetic Field Induced Dielectric Polarization to Enhance Raman Detection of Nitrite by NiFe2O4@Ag
Authors: Zhao Peng , Sun Haorong , Gao Feixue , Yu Long , Shang Kangle , Fang Ming , Ma Bin , Tan Xiaoli , Wang Suhua , Wang Xiangke
Published: September 2024

Rapid and accurate detection of nitrite in the aqueous environment is extremely important for ecological safety and human health. In this paper, the Raman detection of nitrite by a NiFe2O4@Ag sensor in water is enhanced by an extra magnetic field collaborated with surface plasma. Most importantly, it is demonstrated that the magnetic field enhances the Raman peak intensity through not only the effect of magnetic aggregation but also the magnetic field‐induced dielectric polarization effect. In this way, the NO2− can be detected in a wide linear range from 10−8 to 10−3 mol L−1, and the limit of detection (LOD) can reach as low as 1.25 × 10−9 mol L−1, which is 5.69 times lower than that in the absence of an external magnetic field. Similarly, the sensitivity under the magnetic field is 2.65 times that without the magnetic field. In addition, the sensor also shows superior detection ability to NO2− in real samples. Given the excellent capability of the magnetic field‐enhanced Raman spectra, the reported strategy offers new thoughts on how to enhance the detection ability by an external magnetic field and show the great application potential in real water bodies.
Topical Transdermal Administration of Supramolecular Self‐Assembled Carnosine for Anti‐Melanin and Anti‐Aging
Authors: Bai De , Wang Zhenyuan , Xie Lin , Lu Beibei , Wang Mi , Zhang Jiaheng
Published: September 2024

The structure of natural proteins has inspired the hypothesis that L‐carnosine (LC), acetyl carnosine (AC), and decarboxy carnosine (DC) self‐assemble into highly bioactive carnosine with supramolecular structures. These structures are proposed to combat skin pigmentation and aging through the coordination of weak interactions between molecules. Simulations are conducted to ascertain the precise free energies of the potential supramolecular structures and to identify the equilibrium structure. The mechanism of transdermal action of supramolecular carnosine is investigated through experiments and molecular dynamics simulations. The results demonstrate that supramolecular carnosine exhibits a more pronounced reactivity with the skin than LC, primarily due to the interaction of AC and DC with the lipid matrix, which reduces interfacial resistance. The anti‐photoaging and anti‐glycation cell models demonstrate that supramolecular carnosine upregulates the expression of the Nrf2 protein, activates the antioxidant defense system of melanocytes, inhibits the expression of the receptor for advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs), and reduces the level of AGEs in vivo. Moreover, supramolecular carnosine has demonstrated satisfactory whitening efficacy in cells and clinical efficacy tests, thereby underscoring its considerable potential for biomedical and aesthetic applications.
Eumelanin‐Enhanced Photothermal Disinfection of Contact Lenses Using a Sustainable Marine Nanoplatform Engineered with Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Bartolewska Magdalena , Kosik‐Kozioł Alicja , Korwek Zbigniew , Krysiak Zuzanna , Montroni Devis , Mazur Maciej , Falini Giuseppe , Pierini Filippo
Published: September 2024

Bacterial keratitis (BK) is a severe eye infection commonly associated with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), posing a significant risk to vision, especially among contact lens wearers. This research introduces a novel smart nanoplatform (deMS@cNF), developed from demineralized mussel shells (deMS) and reinforced with chitin (CT) nanofibrils, specifically designed for portable photothermal disinfection of contact lenses. The nanoplatform leverages the photothermal properties of eumelanin in mussel shells (MS), which, when activated by a simple bike flashlight, rapidly heats to temperatures up to 95 °C, effectively destroying bacterial contamination. In vitro tests demonstrate that the nanoplatform is biocompatible and non‐toxic, making it suitable for medical applications. This study highlights an innovative approach to converting marine biowaste into a safe, effective, and low‐cost portable method for disinfecting contact lenses, showcasing the potential of the deMS@cNF platform for broader antimicrobial applications.
Electronics and Optoelectronics Based on Tellurium
Authors: Zha Jiajia , Dong Dechen , Huang Haoxin , Xia Yunpeng , Tong Jingyi , Liu Handa , Chan Hau Ping , Ho Johnny C. , Zhao Chunsong , Chai Yang , Tan Chaoliang
Published: September 2024

As a true 1D system, group‐VIA tellurium (Te) is composed of van der Waals bonded molecular chains within a triangular crystal lattice. This unique crystal structure endows Te with many intriguing properties, including electronic, optoelectronic, thermoelectric, piezoelectric, chirality, and topological properties. In addition, the bandgap of Te exhibits thickness dependence, ranging from 0.31 eV in bulk to 1.04 eV in the monolayer limit. These diverse properties make Te suitable for a wide range of applications, addressing both established and emerging challenges. This review begins with an elaboration of the crystal structures and fundamental properties of Te, followed by a detailed discussion of its various synthesis methods, which primarily include solution phase, and chemical and physical vapor deposition technologies. These methods form the foundation for designing Te‐centered devices. Then the device applications enabled by Te nanostructures are introduced, with an emphasis on electronics, optoelectronics, sensors, and large‐scale circuits. Additionally, performance optimization strategies are discussed for Te‐based field‐effect transistors. Finally, insights into future research directions and the challenges that lie ahead in this field are shared.
Multispectral Molecular Chiral Barcoding
Authors: Biswas Aritra , Cencillo‐Abad Pablo , Chanda Debashis
Published: September 2024

More than half of pharmaceutical drugs in use are chiral, necessitating accurate techniques for their characterization. Enantiomers, molecules with mirrored symmetry, often exhibit similar physical traits but possess distinct chemical and biological implications. This study harnesses the strong light‐matter interaction induced by “superchiral” light to perform Surface‐Enhanced Infrared Absorption (SEIRA) induced vibrational circular dichroism measurements in the mid‐infrared spectral region. Utilizing a nanopatterned pixelated array of achiral plasmonic nanostructures, the system allows unique identification of enantiomers and biomolecules. Tunability of plasmon resonance facilitates spectral variation of the optical chirality over a wide infrared range, enabling development of a unique chiral “barcoding” scheme to distinguish chiral molecules based on their infrared fingerprint. This simple, yet robust sensor presents a low‐cost solution for chiral mapping of drugs and biomolecules.
Light‐Driven Reverse Water Gas Shift Reaction with 1000‐H Stability on High‐Entropy Alloy Catalysts
Authors: Xiong Hailong , Ji Xiaomin , Mao Keke , Dong Yueyue , Cai Lihua , Chen Aobo , Chen Yihong , Hu Canyu , Ma Jun , Wan Jun , Long Ran , Song Li , Xiong Yujie
Published: September 2024

Highly stable and active catalysts are of significant importance and a longstanding challenge for a number of industrial chemical transformations. Here, motivated by the principle of the high entropy‐stabilized structure, high‐entropy alloy‐loaded porous TiO2 as an efficient and sintering‐resistant catalyst for the light‐driven reverse water gas‒shift reaction without external heating is synthesized. The optimized CoNiCuPdRu/TiO2 catalyst exhibits a long‐term stability of 1000 h (1.23 mol gmetal
−1 h−1 CO production rate, >99% high selectivity). In situ characterizations confirm that the slow diffusion effect of high‐entropy alloys endows the catalyst with excellent structural stability. The CO adsorption measurements and theoretical calculations consolidate that the hydrogen surface coverage weakens CO adsorption on the catalyst surface. Two major problems of catalyst deactivation − sintering and poisoning, are handled in one case, which synergistically enable unparalleled stability. This work provides new guidance for the rational design of ultradurable harsh‐condition operation catalysts for industrial catalysis.
Manipulating the Electronic Properties of an Fe Single Atom Catalyst via Secondary Coordination Sphere Engineering to Provide Enhanced Oxygen Electrocatalytic Activity in Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Ji Siqi , Mou Yimin , Liu Hongxue , Lu Xue , Zhang Yuqi , Guo Chunmin , Sun Kaizhan , Liu Dong , Horton Joseph Hugh , Wang Chao , Wang Yu , Li Zhijun
Published: September 2024

Oxygen reduction and evolution reactions are two key processes in electrochemical energy conversion technologies. Synthesis of nonprecious metal, carbon‐based electrocatalysts with high oxygen bifunctional activity and stability is a crucial, yet challenging step to achieving electrochemical energy conversion. Here, an approach to address this issue: synthesis of an atomically dispersed Fe electrocatalyst (Fe1/NCP) over a porous, defect‐containing nitrogen‐doped carbon support, is described. Through incorporation of a phosphorus atom into the second coordination sphere of iron, the activity and durability boundaries of this catalyst are pushed to an unprecedented level in alkaline environments, such as those found in a zinc‐air battery. The rationale is to delicately incorporate P heteroatoms and defects close to the central metal sites (FeN4P1‐OH) in order to break the local symmetry of the electronic distribution. This enables suitable binding strength with oxygenated intermediates. In situ characterizations and theoretical studies demonstrate that these synergetic interactions are responsible for high bifunctional activity and stability. These intrinsic advantages of Fe1/NCP enable a potential gap of a mere 0.65 V and a high power density of 263.8 mW cm−2 when incorporated into a zinc‐air battery. These findings underscore the importance of design principles to access high‐performance electrocatalysts for green energy technologies.
Advances in Exploring Mechanisms of Oxidative Phenolic Coupling Reactions
Authors: Choi Haeun , Suh Sung‐Eun , Kang Houng
Published: September 2024

Biphenolic compounds serve as important scaffolds for the development of biologically active molecules. Among the methods for the synthesis of biarenols, oxidative coupling, which directly forms a C−C bond, has been extensively explored in various metal‐catalyzed (V, Cr, Co, Fe, Cu, etc.) reactions, electrochemical reactions, and photochemical reactions over the decades. While the exact mechanisms remain elusive in many cases, numerous mechanistic studies have provided valuable insights. This review focuses on the mechanistic details of the oxidative coupling of phenols or naphthols, involving at least one radical intermediate. Additionally, the factors governing chemoselectivity (homo‐ and cross‐coupling), regioselectivity (ortho‐, meta‐ and para−), and enantioselectivity (R and S configuration) are discussed, with a particular emphasis on intermediates and transition states, encompassing various oxidation sites for phenols and potential coupling sites.
Epigenetic Dynamics in Reprogramming to Dopaminergic Neurons for Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Cho Byounggook , Kim Junyeop , Kim Sumin , An Saemin , Hwang Yerim , Kim Yunkyung , Kwon Daeyeol , Kim Jongpil
Published: September 2024

Direct lineage reprogramming into dopaminergic (DA) neurons holds great promise for the more effective production of DA neurons, offering potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as Parkinson's disease. However, the reprogramming pathway for fully reprogrammed DA neurons remains largely unclear, resulting in immature and dead‐end states with low efficiency. In this study, using single‐cell RNA sequencing, the trajectory of reprogramming DA neurons at multiple time points, identifying a continuous pathway for their reprogramming is analyzed. It is identified that intermediate cell populations are crucial for resetting host cell fate during early DA neuronal reprogramming. Further, longitudinal dissection uncovered two distinct trajectories: one leading to successful reprogramming and the other to a dead end. Notably, Arid4b, a histone modifier, as a crucial regulator at this branch point, essential for the successful trajectory and acquisition of mature dopaminergic neuronal identity is identified. Consistently, overexpressing Arid4b in the DA neuronal reprogramming process increases the yield of iDA neurons and effectively reverses the disease phenotypes observed in the PD mouse brain. Thus, gaining insights into the cellular trajectory holds significant importance for devising regenerative medicine strategies, particularly in the context of addressing neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's disease.
In Situ Growth of MoS2 Onto Co‐Based MOF Derivatives Toward High‐Efficiency Quantum Dot‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Tianming , Cai Lejuan , Xia Caijuan , Song Han , Li Lianbi , Bai Gongxun , Fu Nianqing , Xian Lede , Yang Rong , Mu Haoran , Zhang Guangyu , Lin Shenghuang
Published: September 2024

Quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSCs) represent a promising third‐generation photovoltaic technology, boasting a high theoretical efficiency of 44% and cost efficiency. However, their practical efficiency is constrained by reduced photovoltage (Voc) and fill factor (FF). One primary reason is the inefficient charge transfer and elevated recombination rates at the counter electrode (CE). In this work, a novel CE composed of a titanium mesh loaded with Co,N─C@MoS2 is introduced for the assembly of QDSCs. The incorporation of nanosized MoS2 enhances the density of catalytic sites, while the Co,N─C component ensures high conductivity and provides a substantial active surface area. Additionally, the titanium mesh's 3D structure serves as an effective electrical conduit, facilitating rapid electron transfer from the external circuit to the composite. These improvements in catalytic activity, charge transfer rate, and stability of the CE significantly enhance the photovoltaic performance of QDSCs. The optimized cells achieve a groundbreaking power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 16.39%, accompanied by a short‐circuit current density (Jsc) of 27.26 mA cm−2, Voc of 0.818 V, and FF of 0.735. These results not only offer a new strategy for designing electrodes with high catalytic activity but also underscore the promising application of the Co,N─C@MoS2 composite in enhancing QDSC technology.
Underpinning the Role of Nanofiltration and Other Desalination Technologies for Water Remediation and Brine Valorization: Mechanism and Challenges for Waste‐to‐Wealth Approach
Authors: Kaur Harjot , Chauhan Gunjan , Siwal Samarjeet Singh , Hart Phil , Thakur Vijay Kumar
Published: September 2024

Desalination brine can negatively impact the marine environment in several ways, although there are ongoing discussions regarding the severity and magnitude of environmental effects. A fascinating strategy to lessen any adverse effects is to undertake resource recovery from the brine, which also has the potential for additional revenue generation. More recently, the increasing demand for secure and less geographically restricted sources of precious or rare earth minerals, integrated with growing awareness of waste management and environmental sustainability, is driving the development of economically viable technologies to recover valuable materials from waste streams. This article provides an overview of different methods and technologies, including reverse osmosis (RO), electrodialysis (ED), and distillation, that can be used to recover precious materials, including Li, Mg, Na, and Rb and valuable blends from various waste sources and thus create a more sustainable and circular economy. The mechanisms are discussed in detail, including electrochemical processes (electrolysis, ED, and capacitive deionization), thermal desalination (multistage flash distillation and membrane distillation), pressure‐driven desalination (RO and nanofiltration), and microbial desalination cells. Challenges associated with recovering precious materials from waste streams, such as fouling, scaling, and environmental impact, along with further research directions and potential applications of desalination technologies, are also addressed.
Dynamically Stabilizing Oxygen Atoms in Silver Catalyst for Highly Selective and Durable CO2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Mao Yuanxin , Mao Qing , Yang Hongbin , Liu Qi , Dong Xufeng , Li Yifan , Zhou Shizong , Liu Bin
Published: September 2024

Oxide derived catalyst displays outstanding catalytic activity and selectivity in electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), in which, it is found that residue oxygen atoms play a pivotal role in regulating the catalyst's electronic structure and thus the CO2RR process. Unfortunately, the intrinsic thermodynamic instability of oxygen atoms in oxide derived catalyst under cathodic CO2RR potentials makes it unstable during continuous electrolysis, greatly hindering its practical industrial applications. In this work, we develop a pulsed‐bias technique that is able to dynamically stabilize the residue oxygen atoms in oxide derived catalyst during electrochemical CO2RR. As a result, the oxide derived catalyst under pulsed bias exhibits super catalytic stability in catalyzing electrochemical CO2RR, while keeping excellent catalytic activity and selectivity.
A Graded Redox Interfacial Modifier for High‐Performance Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Qi Wenjing , Liu Zhe , Xie Xinrui , Zhang Yijia , Yu Minhui , Zhang Shi‐Yuan , Zhao Baodan , Zhang Meng , Liu Bo , Di Dawei
Published: September 2024

Perovskite solar cells have emerged as a potential competitor to the silicon photovoltaic technology. The most representative perovskite cells employ SnO2 and spiro‐OMeTAD as the charge‐transport materials. Despite their high efficiencies, perovskite cells with such a configuration show unsatisfactory lifespan, normally attributed to the instability of perovskites and spiro‐OMeTAD. Limited attention was paid to the influence of SnO2, an inorganic material, on device stability. Here we show that improving SnO2 with a redox interfacial modifier, cobalt hexammine sulfamate, simultaneously enhances the power‐conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability of the perovskite solar cells. Redox reactions between the bivalent cobalt complexes and oxygen lead to the formation of a graded distribution of trivalent and bivalent cobalt complexes across the surface and bulk regions of the SnO2. The trivalent cobalt complex at the top surface of SnO2 raises the concentration of (SO3NH2)− which passivates uncoordinated Pb2+ and relieves tensile stress, facilitating the formation of perovskite with improved crystallinity. Our approach enables perovskite cells with PCEs of up to 24.91 %. The devices retained 93.8 % of their initial PCEs after 1000 hours of continuous operation under maximum power point tracking. These findings showcase the potential of cobalt complexes as redox interfacial modifiers for high‐performance perovskite photovoltaics.
Ni(0)‐Catalyzed Rearrangement of Vinylcyclobutanones (VCBOs) to Synthesize Six‐Membered Non‐Conjugated Enones
Authors: Ma Jiguo , Duan Jicheng , Yu Zhi‐Xiang
Published: September 2024

We report here the first nickel‐catalyzed rearrangement of vinylcyclobutanones (VCBOs) under mild conditions to synthesize non‐conjugated cyclohexenone derivatives, which so far do not have many ways to be accessed. The reaction exhibits a wide substrate scope with reaction yields up to 98 %. This VCBO rearrangement can also be used to access various n/6 (n=5–8) bicyclic products efficiently. Furthermore, mechanism of this rearrangement has been investigated using DFT calculations, showing that vinyl group‐assisted cyclobutanone C−C cleavage is easy with a computed activation free energy of 18.1 kcal/mol.
Novel amphiphilic rhamnogalacturonnan I‐based nanomicelles for targeted delivery of curcumin to hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Wu Yuejiao , Yang Jian , Shen Ke , Liu Liyan , Cao Jing , Wang Zhaomei
Published: September 2024

Curcumin (Cur) is a bioactive nutraceutical with great potential in biological, nutritional, and medical applications. However, these applications are limited by various factors such as insufficient ingestion, low aqueous solubility, and relatively high toxicity to normal cells. To tackle these obstacles, we synthesized a novel Cur‐modified‐rhamnogalacturonan (RG‐C) nano‐micelle carrier to target‐deliver Cur to hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells via specific recognition of RG‐I by the overexpressed surface galactin‐3 receptor. Fourier transfer infrared, UV–vis, and 1H NMR analyses confirmed the conjugation between RG and Cur RG‐C loaded with Cur (RG‐CC) was formed via self‐assembly in an aqueous solution with a drug loading efficiency of 12.2%. RG‐CC micelle was ellipsoidal or cubic with a size ranging between 100 and 200 nm by scanning electron microscopy observation. Cur release from RG‐CC exhibited a controlled and pH‐dependent manner with 50% at pH 5.0 in contrast to 5% at pH 7.4 after 24 h exposure. RG‐CC possessed more potent anti‐proliferative activity against HepG2 cells than normal embryonic kidney 293T cells. Compared to free Cur, both the anti‐proliferative effect and uptake of RG‐CC were significantly higher in HepG2 cells as revealed from laser confocal microscopy and flow cytometry analyses. RG‐CC was a promising anticancer candidate and deserves further preclinical and clinical investigations.
Catalytic pyrolysis upcycling of waste thermosetting epoxy resin into fire‐retardant additive
Authors: Mahmoodi Roya , Zabihi Omid , Ahmadi Mojtaba , Ferdowsi Mahmoud Reza Ghandehari , Naebe Minoo
Published: September 2024

This research introduces a low‐temperature catalytic‐assisted pyrolysis method for recycling waste thermosetting epoxy resins, transforming them into an efficient fire‐retardant additive for new epoxy resin formulations. In this study, we demonstrate that boric acid (BA) can significantly reduce the temperature required for epoxy resin (EP) pyrolysis, resulting in degradation products containing boron atoms that can act as a fire‐retardant additive. The impact of 5%–20% content of recycled EP (R‐EP) on the curing process, thermal stability, fire retardancy, and mechanical properties of the new EP was comprehensively investigated. The TGA results show that adding BA to epoxy resin at a 1:4 BA:EP ratio significantly reduces pyrolysis temperature. Neat EP degrades in two stages in 341°C and 557°C, while EP with BA degrades in three stages, starting below 120°C and peaking around 142°C. The results demonstrated an outstanding effect of incorporating 20% R‐EP on the char formation and fire retardancy of the new EP, surpassing the performance of 20% triphenyl phosphate (TPP), a commercially available fire retardant. The storage modulus for neat EP is 1510 MPa, increasing to 2280 MPa with EP/R‐EP 20%, indicating enhanced rigidity. Addition of R‐EP raised glass transition temperature (Tg) of the epoxy resin up to 38°C, indicating highly cross‐linked structures compared to TPP‐modified EP, which shows lower Tg values.
Enhanced rheological, crystallization, mechanical, and heat resistance performance of poly(L‐lactide)/basalt fibers composites via in situ formation of stereocomplex polylactide crystals
Authors: Cheng Hongda , Wang Lijuan , Han Changyu
Published: September 2024

Due to its favorable mechanical strength, transparency, and biocompatibility, polylactic acid (PLA) has considerable potential as a biodegradable material. Nevertheless, developing high‐performance PLA composites through environmentally friendly and cost‐effective methods remains a significant challenge. In this study, the composites comprising poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA), basalt fibers (BFs), and poly(D‐lactide) (PDLA) are prepared through facile melt blending. The in situ formed stereocomplex polylactide (SC‐PLA) crystals improve the crystallization ability and rheological behavior of PLLA/BF/PDLA composites. Upon adding 5 wt% PDLA, BFs are nicely dispersed in PLLA matrix because of increased shear intensity. The synergistic effect of BFs and SC‐PLA crystals enhances the mechanical, thermomechanical, and heat resistance properties of PLLA. In particular, PLLA/BF/10%PDLA composites exhibit a Vicat Softening Temperature (VST) of 155.5°C, increasing by approximately 100°C over neat PLLA. Annealing treatment increases the Young's modulus, thermomechanical properties, and VST of samples while reducing their tensile strength. Interestingly, the tensile strength of the annealed PLLA/BF/10%PDLA composites is 50.2 MPa, twice that of the annealed neat PLLA due to the introduction of SC‐PLA crystals. Simultaneously improving the rheological, mechanical, and heat resistance performance of PLLA opens possibilities for expanding its potential applications in the industrial field.
Integrated Fatty Acid and Stable Isotope Niches Reveal Trophic Connections Among Sympatric Large‐Bodied Sharks
Authors: Roberts Chloe N. , Meyer Lauren , Hussey Nigel E. , Davidson Bruce , Cliff Geremy , Huveneers Charlie
Published: September 2024

This study used a novel approach combining stable isotope data and condensed multivariate fatty acid data to define comparative niche space and overlap of six sympatric sharks from the south‐west Indian Ocean: Galeocerdo cuvier, Sphyrna zygaena, Sphyrna lewini, Carcharias taurus, Carcharodon carcharias and Carcharhinus obscurus. G. cuvier had the smallest fatty acid niche space but exhibited the largest range in δ13C, suggestive of foraging across multiple environments (habitat generalist) but on nutritionally similar prey in a narrow trophic band (nutritional specialist). The remaining five species had comparatively higher δ15N, pelagic‐based fatty acids and larger fatty acid niche spaces, suggesting they are nutritional generalists with a preference for higher trophic level prey. Niche space was not associated with conservation status despite declining populations for half of the species studied. This suggests that resource availability is not a limiting factor for these species and that their mobile nature provides them access to diverse habitats and resources, while exposing them to a broad range of anthropogenic threats, muting the relationship between conservation status and resource use. The combined approach allowed for a comprehensive representation of niche space, distinguishing species based on trophic level, basal carbon sources and pelagic and coastal prey consumption. The presented integrated approach provides greater detail and resolution of elasmobranch trophic ecology that could not be achieved with either fatty acid or stable isotope analysis alone.
Primordial Molecular 1‐Bit Magnitude Comparator in Consort with Excitation‐Guided Mouldable Logic Systems: A Guided Design of Regular Interactions between Molecules
Authors: Karar Monaj , Pise Suraj , Dey Nilanjan
Published: September 2024

In addition to designing certain excitation modulated logic systems, we have created the first‐ever genuine molecular 1‐bit magnitude comparator, using acid and base guided varied absorption responses at separate channels. Designed and manufactured Bifunctional Bis(indolyl)methane Derivative (1) demonstrates distinct optical responses (in UV‐visible and fluorescence mode) to a range of chemical stimuli (acid, base, Hg2+, Cu2+, EDTA, GSH, etc.) in aqueous medium. Intriguingly, the compound's excitation‐modulated fluorescence responses appeared to change at different detection channels depending on whether the aforementioned analytes were present or not. We have proposed not only an excitation driven logic system with switchable molecular IMPLICATION and XNOR logic gates, but also a molecular 1‐bit magnitude comparator in our proposal. A second excitation driven logic system with switchable molecular COMPLEMENT and NOR logic gates was also designed with two different optical channels and used Hg(II) & Cu(II) as chemical inputs.
Developing Service Line Inventories: Guidance for Utilities With Limited Lead Lines
Authors: McTigue Nancy E. , Cornwell David A. , Brown Richard , Skipper Everett , Green Erika
Published: September 2024

Key Takeaways

In the United States, all community and nontransient noncommunity water systems are required to submit an inventory describing the location and makeup of all service lines in their service areas.

While the material can be designated as lead, galvanized requiring replacement, nonlead, or unknown, the last two designations require additional steps to be taken in the proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI).

Some utilities have few or no lead service lines, and this inventory requirement, issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), may be burdensome to those utilities.

This article demonstrates the methodology in EPA's proposed LCRI for verification of construction material, and an alternate validation procedure is proposed.
Proactive Leak Notification Programs Advance Conservation
Authors: Hans Liesel
Published: September 2024

Key Takeaways

Proactive leak notification programs provide many benefits, including reducing water waste, keeping customer bills lower, and reducing staff time and resources on calls, bill adjustments, and billing disputes.

Leak notification programs can benefit from advanced metering infrastructure to identify water use patterns that indicate the presence of a leak or another problem.

Utilities should reach out through multiple communication channels to notify customers as quickly as possible after a leak is identified.

Proactively notifying customers of potential leaks leads to higher customer satisfaction and greater community trust.
Engineering of heterobifunctional biopolymers for tunable binding and precipitation of Strep‐Tag proteins and virus‐like nanoparticles
Authors: Tang James , Becker Matthew , Lenhoff Abraham , Chen Wilfred
Published: September 2024

Affinity precipitation is a powerful separation method in that it combines the binding selectivity of affinity chromatography with precipitation of captured biomolecules via phase separation triggered by small changes in the environment, e.g., pH, ionic strength, temperature, light, etc. Elastin‐like polypeptides (ELPs) are thermally responsive biopolymers composed of pentapeptide repeats VPGVG that undergo reversible phase separation, where they aggregate when temperature and/or salt concentration are increased. Here we describe the generation of an ELP fusion to a soluble streptavidin mutant that enables rapid purification of any Strep‐tag II fusion protein of interest. This heterobifunctional protein takes advantage of the native tetrameric structure of streptavidin, leading to binding‐induced multivalent crosslinking upon protein capture. The efficient biotin‐mediated dissociation of the bound Strep‐tag II fusion protein from the streptavidin‐ELP capturing scaffold allows for mild elution conditions. We also show that this platform is particularly effective in the purification of a virus‐like particle (VLP)‐like E2 protein nanoparticle, likely because the high valency of the protein particle causes binding‐induced crosslinking and precipitation. Considering the importance of VLP for gene therapy applications, we believe this is a particularly exciting advance. We demonstrated this feasibility by the efficient purification of a VLP‐like E2 protein nanoparticle as a surrogate.
Metabolic engineering of rapidly growing Synechococcus elongatus strains for phototrophic production of alkanes
Authors: Srivastava Vaibhav , Sarnaik Aditya P. , Wangikar Pramod P.
Published: September 2024

Alkanes are high‐energy hydrocarbons that are foreseen as next generation biofuels. Cyanobacteria are known to naturally synthesize C15–C19 alkanes; however, the titers are too low to make this a commercially viable process. Therefore, to leverage these photosynthetic platforms for improved alkane production, here we engineered three novel isolates of Synechococcus elongatus PCC 11801, PCC 11802, and IITB6. The two gene AAR‐ADO alkane biosynthesis pathway was constructed by cloning the genes for acyl‐ACP reductase (aar) and aldehyde deformylating oxygenase (ado) from S. elongatus PCC 7942 under the regulation of PrbcL promoter from PCC 7942 and native promoters from PCC 11801 such as PcpcB300, PpsbAI, and PpsbAIII. The genes were separately cloned under two different promoters, creating a library of the engineered strains. The results indicated that the engineered strains of novel S. elongatus isolates produced significantly higher amounts of alkanes than the model strain PCC 7942. The highest alkane yield achieved was 4.1 mg/gDCW in BG‐11, while the highest titer was 31.5 mg/L in 5X BG‐11, with an engineered IITB6 strain (PcpcB300:aar:TrrnB::PrbcL:ado:TLac). Overall, the study highlights the potential of newly isolated S. elongatus strains as efficient alkane production platforms.
New 2024 Title IX regulations remain in limbo for many states
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: September 2024

The long‐awaited Biden‐era Title IX regulations that were issued in April of this year represented a major development in higher education law, differing from previous iterations of Title IX rules in dramatic ways.
Court decision leaves some unresolved issues about employment status of student‐athletes
Authors: O’Brien Timothy
Published: September 2024

In a long‐awaited decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit issued its ruling in the case of Johnson, et al. v. National Collegiate Athletic Association, et al., which deals with the employment status of collegiate student‐athletes. However, instead of a sweeping decision declaring whether they are or aren’t employees, the Court created a new legal standard by which an assessment of employment status should be made.
Miguel Cardona addresses FAFSA, students’ civil rights
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: September 2024

LAS VEGAS — When U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona came to the national Education Writer's Association conference in June, it was expected that his interview was going to touch on some of the hottest topics in higher education today, namely the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and campus protests.
Did court dismiss employee's Title VII claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: September 2024

A Black woman served as the executive director of a childcare program at Auburn University, which was funded by two state grants. About a year into her role, her supervisor advised her to soften her “brusque and blunt” communication style. FCCP employees complained that the director repeatedly failed to respond to emails and work‐related communications. The employees also claimed she made “rude and abrupt comments, [spoke] over people, and [prevented] FCCP staff from saying what they needed to say.” Shortly thereafter, officials from the grant funding agency met with the director and her supervisor to express concerns about the tone of her communications. The officials warned her that if significant improvements weren’t made within 30 days, the grants could be revoked.
Review rulings involving torts, athletics
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: September 2024

An overview of the key topics faced by higher education professionals with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Crotalaria quinquefolia L. Revealed as a Potential Source of Neuropharmacophore in Both Experimental and Computational Studies
Authors: Hasan Zilani Md. Nazmul , Nahar Nazmun , Shome Anamika , Tareq Md. Mohaimenul Islam , Biswas Partha , Bibi Shabana , Alshammari Abdulrahman , Albekairi Norah A. , Alqahtani Hosam M. , Hasan Md. Nazmul
Published: September 2024

Herbal remedies have shown great promise for improving human health. The plant Crotalaria quinquefolia is used in folk medicine to cure different diseases, including scabies, fever, discomfort, and lung infections. The present research was designed to explore bioactive compounds and evaluate the neuropharmacological effects of C. quinquefolia extract through in vivo and in silico approaches. Different secondary metabolites as well as the antioxidant activity were measured. Furthermore, chemical compounds were identified by HPLC and GCMS analysis. The neuropharmacological activity was examined by hole cross, hole board, open field, Y–maze, elevated plus maze, and thiopental sodium induced sleeping time tests in mice at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg b.w. (p.o). Besides, an in‐silico study was performed on proteins related to Alzheimer disease. The extract showed a significant content of secondary metabolites and antioxidant potential. The in‐silico analysis showed that myricetin, quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol have good binding affinity with studied proteins, and QSAR studies revealed potential benefits for treating dementia, and age‐related macular degeneration. The findings of the present neurological activity collectively imply that the extract has strong CNS depressant and anxiolytic activity. Therefore, C. quinquefolia can be a potential source of compounds to treat Alzheimer disease.