bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cylindracin, a Cys‐rich protein expressed in the fruiting body of Cyclocybe cylindracea, inhibits growth of filamentous fungi but not yeasts or bacteria
Authors: Kuratani Yamato , Abematsu Chika , Ekino Keisuke , Oka Takuji , Shin Masashi , Iwata Makoto , Ohta Hiroto , Ando Shoji
Published: October 2024

Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of fungi and are important reproductive structures that produce and disseminate spores. The Pri3 gene was originally reported to be specifically expressed in the primordia (a precursor to the mature fruiting body) of the edible mushroom Cyclocybe aegerita. Here, we cloned a Pri3‐related cDNA from Cyclocybe cylindracea, another species in the same genus, and showed that the gene is specifically expressed at the pileus surface of the immature fruiting body but not in the primordia. Immunohistochemistry showed that the translated protein is secreted into a polysaccharide layer of the pileus surface. The recombinant C‐terminal Cys‐rich domain of the protein showed antifungal activity against three filamentous fungi and inhibited hyphal growth and conidiogenesis. These results suggest that the PRI3‐related protein of C. cylindracea, named cylindracin, plays an important role in the defense against pathogens.
Clinical relevance of paramagnetic rim lesion heterogeneity in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Stölting Anna , Vanden Bulcke Colin , Borrelli Serena , Bugli Céline , Du Pasquier Renaud , van Pesch Vincent , Maggi Pietro
Published: October 2024

Objective

Previous studies reveal heterogeneity in terms of paramagnetic rim lesions (PRL) associated tissue damage. We investigated the physiopathology and clinical implications of this heterogeneity.

Methods

In 103 MS patients (72 relapsing and 31 progressive), brain lesions were manually segmented on 3T 3D‐FLAIR and rim visibility was assessed with a visual confidence level score (VCLS) on 3D‐EPI phase. Using T1 relaxation time maps, lesions were categorized in long‐T1 and short‐T1. Lesion age was calculated from time of first gadolinium enhancement (N = 84 lesions). Results on clinical scores were validated in an extended cohort of 167 patients using normalized T1w‐MPRAGE lesion values.

Results

Rim visibility (VCLS analysis) was associated with increasing lesional T1 (P/PFDR < 0.001). Of 1680 analyzed lesions, 427 were categorized as PRL. Long‐T1 PRL were older than short‐T1 PRL (average 0.8 vs. 2.0 years, P/PFDR = 0.005/0.008), and featured larger lesional volume (P/PFDR < 0.0001) and multi‐shell diffusion‐measured axonal damage (P/PFDR < 0.0001). The total volume of long‐T1‐PRL versus PRL showed 2× predictive power for both higher MS disability (EDSS; P/PFDR = 0.003/0.005 vs. P/PFDR = 0.042/0.057) and severity (MSSS; P/PFDR = 0.0006/0.001 vs. P/PFDR = 0.004/0.007). In random forest, having ≥1 long‐T1‐PRL versus ≥4 PRL showed 2‐4× higher performance to predict a higher EDSS and MSSS. In the validation cohort, long‐T1 PRL outperformed (~2×) PRL in predicting both EDSS and MSSS.

Interpretation

PRL show substantial heterogeneity in terms of intralesional tissue damage. More destructive, likely older, long‐T1 PRL improve the association with MS clinical scales. This PRL heterogeneity characterization was replicated using standard T1w MRI, highlighting its potential for clinical translation.
Single‐Cell Transcriptomics Reveals a Pivotal Role of DOCK2 in Sjögren Disease
Authors: Shen Yiran , Voigt Alexandria , Bhattacharyya Indraneel , Nguyen Cuong Q.
Published: October 2024

Objective

Sjögren disease (SjD) is an autoimmune condition characterized by the dysfunction of the salivary and lacrimal glands. The study aimed to decipher the pathogenic cell populations and their immunologic pathways in the salivary glands. We further determined the therapeutic effect of inhibiting dedicator of cytokinesis 2 (DOCK2) shared by novel clusters of CD8+ T cells in an SjD mouse model.

Methods

This study employed single‐cell RNA sequencing to examine the composition and dynamics of immune cells in the salivary glands of SjD mice. By analyzing the transcriptomic data and employing clustering analysis, a specific target was identified, leading to the treatment of mice with a targeted inhibitor.

Results

The results showed diverse immune cell types, including B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells. We identified specific clusters possessing phenotypic characteristics of immune cell subpopulations, thereby showing specific genes/pathways associated with the disease. The most striking finding was the elevated expression of DOCK2 in CD8+ T cells in the SjD model. This discovery is significant because subsequent treatment with a DOCK2 inhibitor 4‐[3‐(2‐Chlorophenyl)‐2‐propen‐1‐ylidene]‐1‐phenyl‐3,5‐pyrazolidinedione (CPYPP) led to a marked amelioration of SjD signs.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of DOCK2 inhibition in alleviating SjD signs highlights the potential of DOCK2 as a therapeutic target, opening new avenues for treatment strategies that could modulate the immune response more effectively in SjD.
Challenges in Diagnosis and Management of SLE in Africa: An Online Survey
Authors: Paruk Farhanah , Dey Dzifa , Mosam Anisa , Amira Christina Oluwaytoyin , Tikly Mohammed
Published: October 2024

Objective

We surveyed African physicians about challenges in diagnosis and management of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

We used a cross‐sectional, online questionnaire–based survey of African specialist physicians on availability of laboratory tests, medications, and specialized services for the diagnosis of SLE.

Results

Our 226 respondents from 31 countries were dermatologists (38%), rheumatologists (28%), and nephrologists (23%), the majority practicing at university/state‐funded hospitals (80.8%), but over half of patients (59.6%) were self‐funded for laboratory tests and medications. Antinuclear antibody (ANA), antiphospholipid antibody, and complement tests were available to 79.4%, 67.6%, and 62.3% of respondents, respectively, but fewer in the East and West African regions. Median turnaround time for the ANA test was within two weeks but more than four weeks for 5.6% of respondents, and longer in West Africa compared with other regions (P = 0.0002). Availability of urine protein‐to‐creatinine test, skin and renal histopathology was 82%, 82.5%, and 76.2%, respectively. Median turnaround times were within one to two weeks, but more than four weeks for 13.8% of respondents for skin histology results and usually within four weeks but more than four weeks for 24.5% of respondents for renal histology. Glucocorticoids and antimalarials were readily available across all regions, with variable availability of immunosuppressants from 93.7% for methotrexate to 65% for calcineurin inhibitors and only 58.4% for the biologic rituximab. Intensive care units/high care facilities, hemodialysis, and renal transplantation were available to 69.8%, 91.9%, and 56.5% of respondents, respectively.

Conclusion

Variable availability of laboratory tests, medications, and supportive services coupled with cost constraints are major impediments to early diagnosis and optimal management of SLE in most of Africa and are likely factors contributing to underreporting and poor prognosis of SLE in Africa.
Enhanced Carrier Selectivity and Superior Passivation in Cost‐Effective Heterogeneous Hybrid Transport Layers for Next Generation Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Kaur Gurleen , Sridharan Ranjani , Dutta Tanmay , Stangl Rolf , Danner Aaron
Published: October 2024

Hybrid hole transport layers (HHTLs) consisting of‐a low‐cost, low‐temperature, dopant‐free, organic, hole‐selective poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulphonate (PEDOT:PSS) and an inorganic homogenous tunnel oxides (HoTOs), such as SiOx, TiOx, and AlOx have allowed significant improvements in carrier selectivity as well as in power and cost efficiency. These key parameters can be further improved by introducing heterogeneous tunnel oxides (HeTOs), formed of two different inorganic oxides. This work examines the potential of heterogeneous HHTLs and their impact on passivation as well as on the interfacial properties in silicon solar cells. HeTOs of SiOx/TiOx and SiOx/AlOx with negative fixed charge are studied and optimized. A heterogeneous HHTL with AlOx (>1.5 nm) resulted in a high lifetime (1.2 ms), low surface recombination velocity, and improved surface band bending at the interface due to the presence of higher negative fixed charge (1012 cm−2) within these layers. The passivation properties further improved on light soaking and annealing due to oxidation of PSS and AlOx/SiOx. Overall, these HHTLs demonstrated a hole selectivity (S10) of 12.5 and very high efficiencies up to of 26.1%, surpassing homogenous‐SiOx/PEDOT:PSS by 1.4%.
Metallization of Hydrogen Under High Pressure: Challenges and Experimental Progress
Authors: Wang Lin , Wu Zhongyan , Gao Guoying , Tian Yongjun
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen, the first element in the periodic table, is predicted to become metallic at extremely high‐pressure conditions. Solid metallic hydrogen is believed to possess extraordinary physical properties, such as room‐temperature superconductivity and superfluidity, earning it the title of the “holy grail” in high‐pressure research. The pursuit of solid metallic hydrogen has spanned nine decades. Despite numerous fascinating discoveries related to dense hydrogen, metallic hydrogen has yet to be experimentally realized. This article aims to provide an overview of the major progress made in this field and offers an outlook on future developments.
Decoupled Dipole Arrays Empowered by Invisible Complex Poles in Epsilon‐Near‐Zero Metamaterials
Authors: Zhu Xiaokang , Liao Dashuang , Tang Peng , Jing Liqiao , Li Ying , Gao Fei , Chen Hongsheng , Wang Zuojia
Published: October 2024

Evanescent waves, characterized by an exponential decay in propagation, have witnessed significant advancements in far‐field imaging and near‐field sensing applications. However, incoming evanescent waves can excite guided resonance inside a dielectric slab, resulting in a rapid growth of transmission coefficient toward infinity at the pole points. Such evanescent‐wave excited resonance benefits super‐resolution applications yet causes severe crosstalk in highly integrated multi‐channel devices. Here, the invisible complex poles are discovered in the transmission spectra of epsilon‐near‐zero (ENZ) metamaterials and demonstrate the striking suppression of near‐field crosstalk enabled by the anomalous transmission beyond the critical angle. Equipped with an ENZ metamaterial spacer, collinear dipole arrays exhibit 9.2 dB improvement in near‐field isolation among interior dipoles at a distance of less than one wavelength. Experimental measurements show negligible influence on the intrinsic impedance matching and radiation patterns of the dipole antennas. The discovered field divergence effect from the disappearance of real‐valued pole singularity in ENZ metamaterials offers an alternative solution for highly compact arrays in full duplex communication and multiple‐input multiple‐output technology.
Innovation of Lipid‐Based Nanoparticles: the Design and Applications in the Cardiovascular Disease Management
Authors: Gu Zhengying , Liu Tianbao , Rao Wutian , Li Dan , Zhang Qinghang , Dai Jinjie , Huang Lin , Wang Jiayi , Hou Xumin
Published: October 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent a prominent cause of global mortality, posing considerable challenges for traditional therapies due to their limited bioavailability and notable side effects. Similarly, imaging diagnostic modalities have inherent limitations. Lipid‐based nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as promising tools for precise diagnosis and treatment of CVDs, owing to their exceptional biocompatibility, modifiability, and compatibility with payloads, showcasing extensive potential for diverse applications. LNPs excel in encapsulating diverse drug compounds, protecting against drug degradation, and enabling targeted drug delivery at lesion sites. Moreover, in conjunction with multimodal imaging techniques, LNPs enhance the accuracy of diagnosing and treating CVDs. Nevertheless, this field lacks comprehensive and up‐to‐date reviews. Therefore, this review delineates the foundational principles governing nano‐strategies employing LNP systems for addressing CVDs. It explores recent advancements in utilizing these strategies for diagnosing and treating different cardiovascular conditions while also pointing out their limitations. This review aims to provide insights for future research endeavors.
A Low‐Dimensional Donor‐Acceptor Perovskite for High‐Performance X‐Ray Detection
Authors: Pan Wanting , Li Weijun , Zong Jia , Hu Haijing , Guo Keke , Li Chenglong , Qu Wei , Wei Haotong
Published: October 2024

Perovskite materials hold significant promise for X‐ray detection due to their high X‐ray attenuation coefficient, efficient charge mobility, and tunable compositions and optoelectronic properties. Nonetheless, extracting the charges deep inside the thick semiconductors remains a challenge. Here, the 1D cytidine lead bromide perovskite (CytPbBr3) with a regularly arranged Donor (D)–Acceptor (A) heterojunction structure is reported. The organic interlayer contributes to the conduction band, while the inorganic framework constructs the valance band. Such a D–A heterojunction structure offers two separate channels for electrons and holes transport, suppressing the charge recombination rates with improved charge collection efficiency, and thus yields a high device sensitivity of 1.2 × 106 µC Gyair−1 cm−2 with a low noise equivalent dose (NED) of 44.6 pGyair.
Chiral Perovskite Nanowire Optoelectronic Synapse for Full‐Stokes Polarization‐Resolved Perception and Reservoir Computing
Authors: Liu Qi , Wang Pengzhi , Wei Qi , Zhou Luwei , Ren Hui , Wang Chenhao , Peng Jiangbo , Zhao Leyi , Li Mingjie
Published: October 2024

Full‐Stokes polarization‐resolved photonic artificial synapse (PAS) devices with in‐sensor computing capabilities show great potential for multimode vision perception and processing. However, current polarization‐resolved PAS devices are limited to monotonic recognition of linearly polarized light or circularly polarized light. Here, the study develops a chiral perovskite nanowire‐based PAS device as a full‐Stokes polarimeter to achieve polarization‐dependent neuromorphic optoelectronics. The device demonstrates a significantly high circular dichroism of over 400 millidegree and intrinsic linear dichroism, contributing to effectively sensing polarized light. Efficient charge separation at the perovskite NW/MXene heterostructure results in a prolonged carrier lifetime, thereby achieving a high responsivity of 2.3 AW−1, excellent synaptic behavior, and low power consumption of 0.5 pJ per synaptic stimuli. Significantly, the polarization‐modulated reservoir computing is developed based on the full‐Stokes PAS device, which exhibits a low normalized root mean square error of 0.023 in the chaotic system forecasting task. The single‐nanowire PAS device with the capability of sensing full‐Stokes parameters demonstrates great significance in building advanced energy‐efficient polarization‐resolved nanoscale neuromorphic vision systems.
Highly Stretchable Supercapacitor‐Type Multifunctional Self‐Powered Porous Electronic Skins
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Wang Shirui , Liang Xing , Liu Muxiang , Zhang Zenghai , Zu Guoqing
Published: October 2024

The development of highly stretchable self‐powered electronic skins with a broad detection range is urgently needed but remains a great challenge. Herein, unprecedented highly stretchable, broad‐range‐response, supercapacitor‐type, one‐body, and self‐powered electronic skins are developed by assembling porous polyurethane/polypyrrole electrode, polyacrylic acid/polyacrylamide ionic gel electrolyte, and porous polyurethane/MXene electrode. The folded porous structure of the electrodes significantly enhances the stretchability, while the modulus‐gradient multilayer structure of the device effectively broadens the pressure detection range. The electronic skins combine self‐powered dynamic/static pressure sensing, ultrabroad detection range (20 Pa–3.5 MPa), ultrahigh stretchability up to 387%, excellent compression stability (5000 cycles under 195 kPa), and good stretching stability (500 cycles under 200% tensile strain). They have the capability of monitoring human body motions, physiological signals, and high pressures from motorcycle tires, as well as tactile sensing of robotic grippers. In addition, they can be applied for highly stretchable thermal management and electromagnetic shielding devices. This work provides a new strategy for the development of highly stretchable, broad‐range‐response, and multifunctional self‐powered wearable electronics and sensors.
Alterable Robotic Skin Using Material Gene Expression Modulation
Authors: Yu Shifan , Xu Yijing , Cao Zhicheng , Huang Zijian , Wang Huasen , Yan Zechen , Wei Chao , Guo Ziquan , Chen Zhong , Zheng Yuanjin , Liao Qingliang , Liao Xinqin , Zhang Yue
Published: October 2024

Robotic skins that integrate artificial tactile sensing elements can substantially complement the perception dimension of social robots, presenting an indispensable part in human‐robot interaction (HRI). However, existing design frameworks compromise between versatility and sustainability due to the restricted range of characteristics available for a single constituent. Here an alterable robotic skin constructed from homogeneous sensing units are proposed, capable of cyclically realtering their inherent characteristics across a wide spectrum. Necessary characteristics to achieve positioning and pressure sensing subunits can be encoded in the feature motifs and extracted through condition‐induced differentiation, showcasing a remarkable resemblance to the gene expression in the living system. By virtue of this, up to 100‐fold differences in feature parameters are achieved, including modulus, surface state, and conductivity, to drive the target attribute coupling. The trans‐temporal reconstruction of materials enables the superb customization of functional building blocks, advancing the flexible separation and combination of different touch modes, including location, pressure, duration, and motion pattern. As a proof of concept, the alterable robotic skin is demonstrated that integrates a position‐sensing layer and a pressure‐sensing layer. It can accurately distinguish and recognize multi‐dimensional touch motions based on less‐channel data, which showcases an efficient haptic interaction application.
Bacterial Hybrid Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Ferrara Sara , Willeit Stephanie , Fuenzalida‐Werner Juan Pablo , Costa Rubén D.
Published: October 2024

Photon down‐converting filters with fluorescent proteins (FPs) are a new frontier in the quest for rare‐earth‐free and non‐toxic color filters for white light‐emitting diodes. There are, however, concerns related to the FP purification costs and lack of FP recyclability/reuse. Here, the direct use of bacteria in photon down‐converting filters can be of utmost relevance, eliminating purification and allowing in situ production of new FPs. However, their high background autofluorescence/scattering and low stability in polymer coatings have traditionally hampered the application of Engineering Living Materials (ELMs) for photon manipulation. Indeed, there are no examples of ELMs in lighting systems. This work discloses the first protocol to prepare living spheroplasts with > 90% scattering reduction, high FP expression fairly keeping their photoluminescence figures‐of‐merit, and excellent resilience in polymer films over 1 year under ambient storage. This unlocked the preparation of the first bacteria hybrid light‐emitting diodes integrating ELMs for photon conversion. These devices feature similar stabilities to those using purified FPs, while enabling a cost‐effective strategy and active FP recycling by the simple recultivation of spheroplasts. Overall, this work introduces a successful case toward bacteria‐polymer photon manipulation, in general, and a new living lighting concept, in particular.
On the Piezoelectric Properties of Zinc Oxide Thin Films Synthesized by Plasma Assisted DC Sputter Deposition
Authors: McKinlay Michael , Fleming Lewis , García Manuel Pelayo , Sierra Lucía Nieto , Castro Pilar Villar , Araujo Daniel , García Basilio Javier , Gibson Des , Nuñez Carlos García
Published: October 2024

This work presents a study of piezoelectric zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films deposited by a novel post‐reactive sputtering method. The process utilizes a rotating drum with DC magnetron sputtering deposition onto substrates with subsequent DC plasma‐assisted oxidation of the deposited metal to metal oxide. The paper analyzes the influence of plasmaassisted magnetron sputtering (PA‐MS) deposition parameters (O2 plasma source power, O2 flow, and Ar flow) on the morphological, structural, optical, and piezoelectric properties of ZnO thin films. Design of experiments has been utilized to evaluate the role of these parameters on the growth rate (rg) and the properties of resulting films. Results indicate a predominant influence of the plasma power on the rg over other parameters. Among the eight tested samples, three of them show high crystal quality with high intensity (0001) diffraction peak, characteristic of the wurtzite crystalline structure of ZnO, and one of them exhibits piezoelectric coefficient values of ≈11pC N−1. That sample corresponding to a ZnO film deposited at the lowest rg of 0.075 nm s−1, confirmed the key role of the deposition parameters on the piezoelectric response of films, and demonstrated PA‐MS as a promising technique to produce high‐quality piezoelectric thin films.
Reductive Thermal ALD of Pd and Pd2Ge From a Novel Recyclable Palladium Chloride Adduct
Authors: Vihervaara Anton , Hatanpää Timo , Selänne Mikko‐Ilmari , Mizohata Kenichiro , Ritala Mikko
Published: October 2024

In this work, a new ALD process for palladium metal thin films using dichlorobis(triethylphosphine)palladium(II) (PdCl2(PEt3)2) and 1,4‐bis(trimethylsilyl)‐1,4‐dihydropyrazine ((Me3Si)2DHP) as reactants, is developed. The metal precursor is chosen based on the known reactivity of metal halides with the DHP‐type reducing agents. Metallic Pd films are deposited at temperatures of 140–180 °C with a growth rate of 0.3–0.4 Å cycle−1. Furthermore using 1,4‐bis(trimethylgermyl)‐1,4‐dihydropyrazine ((Me3Ge)2DHP) as the co‐reactant yielded Pd2Ge thin films. Finally, full recyclability of the PdCl2(PEt3)2 is observed: unused molecules condensed in the exhaust tube can be collected by dissolving them into acetone, purified by recrystallization, and reused.
Analog‐Digital Hybridity of Resistive Switching in Ion‐Irradiated BiFeO3 Memristor for Synergistic Neuromorphic Functionality and Artificial Learning
Authors: Roy Suman , Sahu Mousam Charan , Jena Anjan Kumar , Mallik Sameer Kumar , Padhan Roshan , Mohanty Jyoti Ranjan , Sahoo Satyaprakash
Published: October 2024

Memristors‐based neuromorphic devices represent emerging computing architectures to perform complex tasks by outpacing the traditional Von‐Neumann architectures in terms of speed, and energy efficiency. In this work, the resistive switching (RS) behavior of sol‐gel grown and ion‐irradiated BFO films is investigated under electrical stimulus. The Ag/BFO/FTO memristors emulate a combination of digital and analog RS behavior within a single device. The possible mechanism of analog digital hybridity is addressed by considering the formation of the conducting filament by oxygen vacancies, Ag+ ions and Schottky barrier height modulation. The ion‐irradiated BFO samples are analyzed using the Raman, XRD, and XPS studies. To uphold bioinspired synaptic actions, crucial synaptic functionalities like pair‐pulse facilitation and long‐term potentiation/depression are effectively achieved. More intricate synaptic behaviors are also demonstrated such as spike‐time‐dependent plasticity and Pavlovian classical conditioning, which represent the prominent attributes of both learning and forgetting behavior. Additionally, high pattern recognition accuracy (96.1%) is achieved in an artificial neural network simulation by using the synaptic weights of the memristors. This synergistic effect of digital and analog RS in ion‐irradiated BFO can be beneficial for the emulation of complex learning behavior as well as its incorporation into low‐power neuromorphic computing.
Diffusion‐Free Intramolecular Triplet–Triplet Annihilation Contributes to the Enhanced Exciton Utilization in OLEDs
Authors: Mattiello Sara , Danos Andrew , Stavrou Kleitos , Ronchi Alessandra , Baranovski Roman , Florenzano Domenico , Meinardi Francesco , Beverina Luca , Monkman Andrew , Monguzzi Angelo
Published: October 2024

Triplet–triplet annihilation (TTA), or triplet fusion, is a biexcitonic process in which two triplet‐excited molecules can combine their energy to promote one into an excited singlet state. To alleviate the dependence of the TTA rate and yield on triplet diffusion in both solid and solution environments, intramolecular TTA (intra‐TTA) has been recently proposed in conjugated molecular systems able to hold multiple triplet excitons simultaneously. Developing from the previous demonstration of TTA performance enhancement in sensitized upconversion solutions, here similar improvements in triplet harvesting in solid‐state films are reported under electrical excitation in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). At low dye concentration and low current densities, the intra‐TTA active OLED shows a +40% improved external quantum efficiency with respect to the reference device, and a TTA spin‐statistical factor f 4DPA of 0.4, close to that determined in fluid solution for the individual chromophore (0.45). These results therefore indicate the utility of this molecular design strategy across a wider range of TTA applications, and with particular utility in the further development of low‐power TTA‐enhanced OLEDs.
Recent Advancements in Nanomaterials for Near‐Infrared to Long‐Wave Infrared Photodetectors
Authors: Sharma Ravinder , Henderson Leaford Nathan , Sankar Pranitha , Tresa Maydenee Maydur , Oyeku Olusola Pelumi , Perez Edward , Thomas Jayan
Published: October 2024

Nanomaterials have superior electronic, optical, and mechanical properties making them highly suitable for a range of applications in optoelectronics, biomedical fields, and photonics. Nanomaterials‐based IR detectors are rapidly growing due to enhanced sensitivity, wide spectral range, and device miniaturization compared to commercial photodetectors. This review paper focuses on the significant role of nanomaterials in infrared detection, an area critical for enhancing night vision and health monitoring technologies. The latest advancements in IR photodetectors that employ various nanomaterials and their hybrids are discussed. The manuscript covers the operational mechanisms, device designing, performance optimization strategies, and material challenges. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current developments in nanomaterial‐based IR photodetectors and to identify key directions for future research and technological advancements.
One‐Step Room Temperature Synthesis of Printable Carbon Quantum Dots Ink for Visual Encryption and High‐Performance Photodetector
Authors: Thakurta Baishali , Hazra Sobhan , Samanta Alapan , Nasir Adnan , Singh Amresh Kumar , Maurya Deepak , Mondal Bama Charan , Giri Anupam , Pal Bhola Nath , Pal Monalisa
Published: October 2024

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have emerged as promising materials for optoelectronic applications and have garnered much interest as potential competitors to conventional inorganic or hybrid semiconductor quantum dots because of carbon's intrinsic merits of high stability, low cost, and environment‐friendliness. The ability of easy formulation of functional ink of CQDs is necessary for the development of industrial‐scale, reliable, inexpensive printing/coating processes, for its full exploitation in the ever‐growing class of applications in sensors, optoelectronics, and energy storage and conversion. Here a facile one‐step room‐temperature synthesis of printable, fluorescent CQD ink is demonstrated. The as‐synthesized fluorescent CQD ink is used for invisible fingerprint stamps, printing of micro‐patterns, and soft lithographic patterning with a resolution down to 1.5 µm. This functional CQD ink is also used to fabricate a high‐performance CQD‐ZnO heterojunction ultraviolet (UV) photodetector with a photo‐responsivity of 3.85 A W−1, detectivity of 6.78 × 1010 Jones, and an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 15.3%. The enhanced device performance can be attributed to CQD's high photocurrent generation efficiency and rational combination of the asymmetric electrode materials. This work enables a high‐temperature stable CQD fluorescent ink synthesis method to fulfill the processing requirements of printing and soft lithographic patterning for visual encryption and optoelectronics.
Mechanochromic 3D Soft Photonic Crystals Enabled Anticounterfeiting and Encryption Information Storage
Authors: Wang Meng , Li Xiaosong , Yang Hui , Yang Huai
Published: October 2024

Inspired by the color‐changing abilities of natural organisms, this research focuses on the design and fabrication of mechanochromic liquid crystal photonic crystal thin films with periodic self‐assembly structures. Benefiting from its unique 3D self‐assembled structure with a body‐centered cubic lattice, BP I film exhibits excellent mechanical properties, characterized by superior elasticity and toughness due to the presence of rigid and flexible microdomains and suitable dislocation line volumes. As the strain increases, the structural color of the BP I film demonstrates a repeatable and rapid shift from red to blue, covering the entire visible light spectrum with high reflectivity. The incorporation of fluorescent molecules further enhances the mechanical properties and endowing the film with circularly polarized luminescence under UV light irradiation. Utilizing different fluorescent dyes as inks, arbitrary patterned writing can be performed on the BPI film, enabling specific information hiding and encryption. The prepared label exhibits excellent environmental stability, presenting promising applications in information storage, anti‐counterfeiting, and flexible 3D displays. The study may contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between microstructure, mechanical deformation, and optical properties, potentially advancing the development of innovative responsive materials and multifunctional devices.
Supramolecular Luminescent Hydrogel Based on Glycine/Terbium Complex and Fluorescent Dyes for Visual Temperature Monitoring
Authors: Ma Qianmin , Kong Dongfei , Min Xuemei , Yu Xinghai , Yan Pengji , Han Yuqi , Tian Qingwei , Lv Haoming
Published: October 2024

The development of smart synthetic materials that are sensitive, accurate, and visually responsive to changes in temperature is vital. Herein, a supramolecular luminescent hydrogel based on a glycine/terbium (Gly/Tb) complex, rhodamine B (RB), and gelatin is reported. The hydrogel exhibits responsive luminescence and undergoes a temperature‐induced phase transformation from hydrogel to sol. The electrospray ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectra, Fourier‐transform infrared spectra, and simulation results verifiy the coordination mode of the Gly/Tb complex. The Gly/Tb complex and RB emit green and orange luminescence, respectively. When the Gly/Tb complex and RB are co‐doped into the gel network of gelatin, the obtained Gly/Tb/RB hydrogel displays steady yellow luminescence by virtue of luminescence resonance energy transfer. Subsequently, a luminescent switch is constructed owing to the sensitive and reversible luminescence responsiveness of the Gly/Tb/RB hydrogel to temperature stimuli. Remarkably, the Gly/Tb/RB hydrogel undergoes a visual phase transformation from hydrogel to sol above 35 °C, allowing the ambient temperature variation to be monitored. This study establishes a novel and effective route for the construction of smart optical materials and visual temperature monitors.
π‐Extended Phenoxazine‐Based Asymmetric MR‐TADF Emitters for Narrow Emission Band Green OLEDs with a Power Efficiency of 150 lm W−1, an EQE of 27%, and an LT95 of Over 3000 h at 1000 cdm−2
Authors: Nemma Haruki , Kori Yuma , Meguro Naoki , Mimura Ryunosuke , Chiba Yudai , Kido Junji , Sasabe Hisahiro
Published: October 2024

Although multi‐resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescent (MR‐TADF) emitters simultaneously achieve high color purity and high efficiency in organic light‐emitting devices (OLEDs), MR‐TADF‐based OLEDs suffer from severe efficiency roll‐off and lifetime issues for practical application. To overcome these issues, a key solution is hyper OLED technology sensitized by TADF or phosphorescent emitters. In this study, a series of π‐extended phenoxazine‐based asymmetric MR‐TADF emitters for long lifetime, low‐power consumption, and narrow emission band green OLEDs is developed. As a sensitizer, a well‐known phosphorescent emitter is used, fac‐tris(2‐phenylpyridinato‐C2,N)iridium(III) [Ir(ppy)3]. Consequently, these MR‐TADF emitters achieve hyper OLEDs with a power efficiency of 150 lm W−1, an external quantum efficiency of 27%, and a long lifetime LT95 of over 3000 h at high brightness of 1000 cdm−2. These performances are among the best in scientific literature.
Microscopic Origin of Polarity‐Dependent VTH Shift in Amorphous Chalcogenides for 3D Self‐Selecting Memory
Authors: Sung Ha‐Jun , Choi Minwoo , Wu Zhe , Chae Hwasung , Heo Sung , Kang Youngjae , Koo Bonwon , Park Jong‐Bong , Yang Wooyoung , Park Yongyoung , Ham Yongnam , Yang Kiyeon , Lee Chang Seung
Published: October 2024

Ovonic threshold switching (OTS) selectors based on amorphous chalcogenides can revolutionize 3D memory technology owing to their self‐selecting memory (SSM) behavior. However, the complex mechanism governing the memory writing operation limits compositional and device optimization. This study investigates the mechanism behind the polarity‐dependent threshold voltage shift (ΔVTH) through theoretical and experimental analyses. By examining the physical principles of threshold switching and conducting defect state analysis, the ΔVTH as a memory window is confirmed to be attributed to the dynamics of charged defects and their gradient near electrodes, influenced by the nonuniform electric field after threshold switching. This study provides critical insights into the operational mechanism of OTS‐based SSM, known as selector‐only memory, highlighting its advantages for developing high‐density, low‐cost, and energy‐efficient memory technologies in the artificial intelligence era.
Sulfur Distribution Analysis in Lithium−Sulfur Cathode via Confined Inverse Vulcanization in Carbon Frameworks
Authors: Deng Bijian , Scheiba Frieder , Zuo Anhao , Indris Sylvio , Li Hang , Radinger Hannes , Grimm Alexander , Njel Christian
Published: October 2024

Lithium–Sulfur (Li–S) batteries are promising energy storage devices due to their high theoretical energy density. However, challenges such as the shuttling effect and volume expansion have significantly hindered their cycle life and capacity retention. Furthermore, the complex kinetic pathways in Li–S batteries call for advanced characterization techniques to unravel underlying mechanisms. In this study, a hollow porous carbon (HPC) is used as a microreactor, where inverse vulcanization occurs between 1,3‐diisopropylbenzene (DIB) and sulfur (S8), resulting in the creation of three‐dimensionally interconnected and well‐distributed S‐DIB in carbon frameworks. As a result, the dual confinement strategy imparts Li–S coin cells with remarkable cycling stability and capacity retention, exhibiting an impressive capacity of 866 mAh g−1 when returning to 0.1 C after 100 cycles of rate capability tests. Particularly, the Energy‐selective Backscattered (EsB) assisted Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) technique as a novel approach is introduced to distinguish different lengths of polysulfides. Their distribution is visualized in the cross‐section view of the electrode in a micrometer range. These EsB images provide concrete indications of the sulfur evolution process and explain the capacity degradation during cycling.
Comparative Analysis of Layer Thickness Measurement Methods for Photovoltaic Modules: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Neumaier Lukas , De Biasio Martin , Gassner Anika , Eder Gabriele C. , Nigl Thomas
Published: October 2024

The increasing volume of end‐of‐life (EoL) photovoltaic (PV) modules poses a significant challenge, necessitating efficient and sustainable recycling processes. In the PVReValue project, it is aimed to develop a comprehensive methodology for the systematic separation and recycling of EoL PV modules. Central to this effort is the precise determination of layer thicknesses, critical for effective characterization, and separation of input material. In this study, a comparative analysis of various industrial‐applicable methods is conducted for measuring layer thicknesses in PV modules. Both destructive and nondestructive techniques are evaluated based on criteria such as time, cost, accuracy, and applicability. Methods such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), coaxial multicolor confocal measurement, and ultrasonic measurements are assessed alongside traditional approaches like calotte grinding and optical 3D microscopy. In these findings, it is indicated that while OCT and confocal measurement offer high accuracy and nondestructiveness, they are complex and costly. Conversely, calotte grinding, although less costly, provides only localized information and can be challenging for polymers. In this study, it is concluded with recommendations for the possible integration of these methods into an industrial recycling workflow, highlighting the potential for improving PV module recycling efficiency and sustainability.
A Rorschach Test
Authors: Caluseriu Oana
Published: October 2024

Unexpectedly intersecting her path with a person with a congenital anomaly gives the writer an opportunity to reflect on her own understanding of patients outside the medical perimeter that ultimately influences her point of view during the hospital encounter.
Multicomponent Cyanation of 2‐Amino‐3‐cyano‐4H‐chromenes in Aqueous Media
Authors: Ardevines Sandra , Garcés‐Marín Miryam , Cervantes‐Cerrada Paula , AAmir Subhan , Herrera Raquel P. , Marqués‐López Eugenia
Published: October 2024

Chromenes represent a pivotal molecular structure found in a diverse range of biologically active compounds. Specifically, derivatives of 2‐amino‐3‐cyano‐4H‐chromene have demonstrated pharmacological applications, displaying potential antioxidant and anticancer activities. This has heightened interest in the exploration of new and more efficient methods for their synthesis. In recent years, few examples have emerged, focusing on the organocatalytic and enantioselective synthesis of 2‐amino‐3‐cyano‐4H‐chromene derivatives, although the overall number of works to date is limited. In this study, we present the results of the synthesis of 2‐amino‐4H‐chromen‐3,4‐dicarbonitriles through a Michael addition of cyanide to 2‐iminochromenes. To achieve this, we utilized a mild source of cyanide (acetone cyanohydrin), green solvents and catalytic conditions at room temperature, via a multicomponent approach. Furthermore, we initiated the enantioselective study of this process using chiral organocatalysts obtaining promising preliminary results.
High Efficiency Alkaline Iodine Batteries with Multi‐Electron Transfer Enabled by Bi/Bi2O3 Redox Mediator
Authors: Ma Wenjiao , Li Jinye , Wang Huijian , Lei Chengjun , Liang Xiao
Published: October 2024

The multi‐electron transfer I−/IO3− redox couple is attractive for high energy aqueous batteries. Shifting from an acidic to an alkaline electrolyte significantly enhances the IO3− formation kinetics due to the spontaneous disproportionation reaction, while the alkaline environment also offers more favorable Zn anode compatibility. However, sluggish kinetics during the reduction of IO3− persists in both acidic and alkaline electrolytes, compromising the energy efficiency of this glorious redox couple. Here, we establish the fundamental redox mechanism of the I−/IO3− couple in alkaline electrolytes for the first time and propose that Bi/Bi2O3 acts as a redox mediator (RM) to “catalyze” the reduction of IO3−. This mediation significantly reduces the voltage gap between charge/discharge from 1.6 V to 1 V with improved conversion efficiency and rate capability. By pairing the Zn anode and the Bi/Bi2O3 RM cathode, the full battery with I−/IO3− redox mechanism achieves high areal capacity of 12 mAh cm−2 and stable operation at 5 mAh cm−2 for over 400 cycles.
Importing Atomic Rare‐Earth Sites to Activate Lattice Oxygen of Spinel Oxides for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Wang Xuan , Hu Jinrui , Lu Tingyu , Wang Huiyu , Sun Dongmei , Tang Yawen , Li Hao , Fu Gengtao
Published: October 2024

Spinel oxides have emerged as highly active catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Owing to covalency competition, the OER process on spinel oxides often follows an arduous adsorbate evolution mechanism (AEM) pathway. Herein, we propose a novel rare‐earth sites substitution strategy to tune the lattice oxygen redox of spinel oxides and bypass the AEM scaling relationship limitation. Taking NiCo2O4 as a model, the incorporation of Ce into the octahedral site induces the formation of Ce−O−M (M=Ni, Co) bridge, which triggers charge redistribution within NiCo2O4. The developed Ce−NiCo2O4 exhibits remarkable OER activity with a low overpotential, satisfactory electrochemical stability, and good practicability in anion‐exchange membrane water electrolyzer. Theoretical analyses reveal that OER on Ce−NiCo2O4 surface follows a more favorable lattice oxygen mechanism (LOM) pathway and non‐concerted proton‐electron transfers compared to pure NiCo2O4, as also verified by pH‐dependent behavior and in situ Raman analysis. The 18O‐labeled electrochemical mass spectrometry provides direct evidence that the oxygen released during the OER originates from the lattice oxygen of Ce−NiCo2O4. We discover that electron delocalization of Ce 4f states triggers charge redistribution in NiCo2O4 through the Ce−O−M bridge, favoring antibonding state occupation of Ni−O bonding in [Ce−O−Ni] unit site, thereby activating lattice oxygen redox of NiCo2O4 in OER. This work provides a new perspective for designing highly active spinel oxides for OER and offers significant insights into the rare‐earth‐enhanced LOM mechanism.
Application of DPG/KH550 modified pyrolysis carbon black in oil and high temperature‐resistant NBR composites
Authors: Ge Yaqi , Diao Pengfei , Li Xiangxu , Zhou Yukun , Xu Zhenchun , Bian Huiguang , Xiao Yao , Wang Chuansheng
Published: October 2024

In this paper, pyrolysis carbon black (CBp) was introduced into nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), the effects of the ratio of CBp and carbon black (N326) on the properties of NBR composites were investigated, and the optimal ratio was determined. On this basis, the accelerator DPG, coupling agent KH550 and CBp were modified by ball milling and plasma. The results showed that when the ratio of CBp to N326 was 40:15, the overall properties of NBR composites was better. Compared with the unmodified CBp/NBR composites, the change rate of tensile product, resilience and DIN abrasion of ball milling‐plasma modified CBp/NBR composites in oil environment were reduced by 52.96%, 12.81%, and 27.19%, respectively, and the tear strength after double damage by high temperature and oil bath was increased by 15.63%, which resulted in better oil and high temperature‐resistance. In summary, the ball milling‐plasma combined with DPG/KH550 modified CBp can not only replace N326 carbon black, but also realize the preparation of NBR composites with better oil and high temperature‐resistance.
Multi‐Method Structural Investigation of the Schneiderberg–Baalberge Burial Mound (Saxony‐Anhalt, Germany) Including Seismic Full‐Waveform Inversion (FWI)
Authors: Zolchow Manuel , Köhn Daniel , Wilken Dennis , Erkul Ercan , Dreibrodt Stefan , Pickartz Natalie , Corradini Erica , Müller Johannes , Rabbel Wolfgang
Published: October 2024

The construction history and subsequent usage of burial mounds are an important testimony for socio‐economic transformation in prehistoric societies. The Baalberge–Schneiderberg burial mound, subject of the presented study, falls in this category as it is considered as an important monument that indicates the emergence of early social stratification during the Chalcolithic period in central Europe. This hypothesis relies on the chronological development of the burial mound, which is not fully understood until now. Therefore, a reconstruction of the complex stratigraphy of the burial mound including construction phases and later alterations is highly relevant for archaeological research, but the required excavations would be onerous and inconsistent with preservation efforts. In this paper, we demonstrate that non‐invasive geophysical prospection, especially seismic sounding with shear and Love waves, is suitable to obtain the required stratigraphic information, if seismic full waveform inversion (FWI) and reflection imaging are applied. Complementary information on the preservation state of the mound is obtained through Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Electromagnetic Induction (EMI) measurements. To support the seismic and geoelectric results, we utilize Dynamic Testing (DynP), geoarchaeological corings, 14C‐Dating and archaeological records. Our investigations reveal two construction phases of the Baalberge–Schneiderberg mound. The 14C‐Dating yields dates for the older burial mound that are contemporary to the Chalcolithic Baalberge group (4000–3400 bc). During the Early Bronze Age (EBA), the mound was enlarged to its final size by people of the Aunjetitz/Únětice society (2300–1600 bc). However, both seismic and geoelectric depth sections show an extensive disturbance of the original stratigraphy due to former excavations. For this reason, the exact shape of the older burial mound cannot be determined exactly. Based on our data, we estimate that its height was below 2 m. In consequence, the original Baalberge burial mound was less monumental as until now assumed, which potentially prompting a revision of its significance as indicator for social differentiation.
Investigation of Electrolyte Salts in Non‐Flammable Triethyl Phosphate for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Van Ekeren Wessel W. A. , Dettmann Lasse , Tesfamhret Yonas , Naylor Andrew J. , Younesi Reza
Published: October 2024

Five different electrolyte salts, namely NaBF4, NaClO4, NaDFOB, NaFSI and NaPF6, were evaluated in non‐flammable triethyl phosphate (TEP) based electrolyte solutions in sodium‐ion full‐cells using high‐mass loading Prussian white and hard carbon electrodes. Their impact on the viscosity, ionic conductivity and solvation structure was analyzed, revealing that NaFSI‐based electrolytes exhibited a stronger interaction with TEP and less ion‐pairing than the other salts, resulting in the highest ionic conductivity at a concentration of 0.8 m (mol/kg). Galvanostatic cycling experiments showed that none of the electrolyte salts dissolved in TEP forms an efficient passivation layer. However, adding 1 wt.% vinylene carbonate (VC) significantly improved cycling performance for the cells with NaBF4, NaDFOB or NaFSI, but not with NaClO4 or NaPF6. Additionally, NaFSI in TEP with 1 wt.% VC electrolyte solution showed minimal gas evolution during the formation cycling (<8 mbar). In a 1 Ah multilayer pouch cell, 0.8 m NaFSI in TEP with 1 wt.% VC showed promising results with 88 % capacity retention after 200 cycles. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis indicated that the addition of VC results in the formation of a thin SEI and minimized TEP decomposition, particularly for 0.8 m NaFSI TEP with 1 wt.% VC. This study lays the groundwork for safer liquid electrolytes and integrating them into near‐to‐commercial cell setups.