bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative Biomaterials for Bone Tumor Treatment and Regeneration: Tackling Postoperative Challenges and Charting the Path Forward
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhang Huaiyuan , Qiang Huifen , Li Meigui , Cai Yili , Zhou Xuan , Xu Yanlong , Yan Zhenzhen , Dong Jinhua , Gao Yuan , Pan Chengye , Yin Xiaojing , Gao Jie , Zhang Tinglin , Yu Zuochong
Published: March 2024

Surgical resection of bone tumors is the primary approach employed in the treatment of bone cancer. Simultaneously, perioperative interventions, particularly postoperative adjuvant anticancer strategies, play a crucial role in achieving satisfactory therapeutic outcomes. However, the occurrence of postoperative bone tumor recurrence, metastasis, extensive bone defects, and infection are significant risks that can result in unfavorable prognoses or even treatment failure. In recent years, there has been significant progress in the development of biomaterials, leading to the emergence of new treatment options for bone tumor therapy and bone regeneration. This progress report aims to comprehensively analyze the strategic development of unique therapeutic biomaterials with inherent healing properties and bioactive capabilities for bone tissue regeneration. These composite biomaterials, classified into metallic, inorganic non‐metallic, and organic types, are thoroughly investigated for their responses to external stimuli such as light or magnetic fields, internal interventions including chemotherapy or catalytic therapy, and combination therapy, as well as their role in bone regeneration. Additionally, an overview of self‐healing materials for osteogenesis is provided and their potential applications in combating osteosarcoma and promoting bone formation are explored. Furthermore, the safety concerns of integrated materials and current limitations are addressed, while also discussing the challenges and future prospects.
Enhancing Light Outcoupling Efficiency via Anisotropic Low Refractive Index Electron Transporting Materials for Efficient Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Sun Shuang‐Qiao , Tai Jing‐Wen , He Wei , Yu You‐Jun , Feng Zi‐Qi , Sun Qi , Tong Kai‐Ning , Shi Kefei , Liu Bo‐Chen , Zhu Min , Wei Guodan , Fan Jian , Xie Yue‐Min , Liao Liang‐Sheng , Fung Man‐Keung
Published: March 2024

Thanks to the extensive efforts toward optimizing perovskite crystallization properties, high‐quality perovskite films with near‐unity photoluminescence quantum yield are successfully achieved. However, the light outcoupling efficiency of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) is impeded by insufficient light extraction, which poses a challenge to the further advancement of PeLEDs. Here, an anisotropic multifunctional electron transporting material, 9,10‐bis(4‐(2‐phenyl‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazole‐1‐yl)phenyl) anthracene (BPBiPA), with a low extraordinary refractive index (ne) and high electron mobility is developed for fabricating high‐efficiency PeLEDs. The anisotropic molecular orientations of BPBiPA can result in a low ne of 1.59 along the z‐axis direction. Optical simulations show that the low ne of BPBiPA can effectively mitigate the surface plasmon polariton loss and enhance the photon extraction efficiency in waveguide mode, thereby improving the light outcoupling efficiency of PeLEDs. In addition, the high electron mobility of BPBiPA can facilitate balanced carrier injection in PeLEDs. As a result, high‐efficiency green PeLEDs with a record external quantum efficiency of 32.1% and a current efficiency of 111.7 cd A−1 are obtained, which provides new inspirations for the design of electron transporting materials for high‐performance PeLEDs.
All‐Nanofiber Iontronic Sensor with Multiple Sensory Capabilities for Wearable Electronics
Authors: Wang Sai , Yan Xunchang , Zhang Tong , Li Lin , Li Ru , Ramakrishna Seeram , Long Yun‐Ze , Han Wenpeng
Published: March 2024

Wearable multi‐functional sensor with practical features is crucial for applications in many areas such as e‐skin, health monitoring, and human‐computer interaction. Herein, an all‐nanofiber flexible breathable iontronic sensor based on polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofiber membrane doped with ionic liquid (IL) is prepared by electrospinning technique. Compared to the traditional capacitor's electrode‐dielectric‐electrode sandwich structure, an undoped PAN nanofiber membrane is added between the electrode and the dielectric layer as the spacer. The iontronic sensor demonstrated an impressive linear response in pressure ranges of 0–50 and 50–300 kPa, with linearity values of R12 = 0.992, R22 = 0.998 by adjusting the thickness of the spacer. Additionally, the iontronic sensor demonstrates excellent temperature response attributed to the thermal sensitivity of the IL. It exhibits high sensitivities of 8.5, 31.8, and 71.1% °C−1, along with low detection limits of 0.5°C, across temperature ranges of 20–40, 40–55, and 55–80 °C, respectively. To validate the sensor for practical applications, its uses are demonstrated in various scenarios, such as body joint flexion, heartbeat monitoring, encrypted messaging, and temperature‐sensitive gloves. This study enables the integration of pressure and temperature sensing functions to develop diverse and integrated designs for wearable electronic devices.
Defect‐Induced Rashba Effect in Metal Halide Perovskite Thin Films Deposited on a Flexible Substrate
Authors: Zhang Qi , Lei Sanfeng , Hu Chenyu , Zhu Xixiang , Li Jinpeng , Wang Kai , Zhang Shufang , Yi Ruichen , Yu Haomiao
Published: March 2024

Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) exhibit strong spin‐orbit coupling and structural inversion asymmetry, making them ideal for testbeds of Rashba effects and for use in spin‐related optoelectronic and spintronic applications. However, the Rashba band splitting is mainly observed in bulk MHPs so far and is rarely observed in thin films. In this study, a direct observation of Rashba band splitting in MHP thin films at room temperature is reported. By employing a silicone rubber substrate with a high thermal expansion coefficient, the out‐of‐plane tensile strain significantly reduces the activation energy of ion migration in these thin films and leads to a considerable amount of point defects. These point defects disrupt the inversion symmetry and ultimately give rise to the Rashba band splitting. These findings open up new possibilities for manipulating Rashba effects in MHP thin films through device engineering.
A Novel Near‐Infrared Emitting Sr2LuSbO6:Fe3+ Phosphor with Persistent Luminescence Performance
Authors: Su Jiangyue , Pang Ran , Tan Tao , Wang Shangwei , Chen Xuexia , Zhang Su , Zhang Hongjie
Published: March 2024

The near‐infrared (NIR) persistent luminescence (PersL) materials have attracted widespread attention owing to the unique self‐sustained light with good penetrability. Currently, most of the reported NIR PersL materials are activated by Cr3+. Considering the potential toxicity of chromium ions, there is an urgent requirement to explore the Cr3+‐free NIR phosphors. Herein, a novel NIR phosphor Sr2LuSbO6:Fe3+ (SLSO:Fe3+) is prepared and its luminescence properties are systematically studied. The Fe3+‐activated Sr2LuSbO6 exhibits a long‐wavelength NIR emission band centered at 890 nm with a 110 nm full‐width at half maximum (FWHM), and its PersL can last over 18 h. The phosphor shows excellent PersL stability even after being dispersed in solutions of different environments for 7 days. Furthermore, the PersL emitted by the phosphor can penetrate the 2 cm thickness beef, evidencing its good NIR PersL penetration property. This work provides a novel NIR PersL materials based on Fe3+ luminescence for technological applications and also contributes to accelerate the development of new‐generation Fe3+‐doped NIR PersL phosphor toward versatile applications.
Optical Temperature Sensor Evaluation in a Working Gear Motor: Application of Luminescence Thermometry in Industrial Technology
Authors: Hernández‐Álvarez Christian , Martín‐Hernández Pablo I. , Martín Inocencio R. , Rivera‐López Fernando , Hemmerich Hanoch , Grzegorczyk Maciej , Mahlik Sebastian , Runowski Marcin
Published: March 2024

3D printing constitutes a technological advancement, revolutionizing contemporary industry by enabling manufacturers to fabricate intricate, customized components efficiently and precisely from digital blueprints. Moreover, the fusion of 3D printing with cutting‐edge materials has given rise to compelling elements boasting a diverse range of applications. For this reason, this work describes the incorporation of a luminescent material, NaYF4, doped with Yb3+ and Er3+, embedded in resin for 3D printing to create motorized luminescent gears. The fabricated luminescent gears take advantage of the intensity ratio between the Er3+ emissions at 525 nm (2H11/2 → 4I15/2) and 550 nm (4S3/2 → 4I15/2), which are thermally coupled, to detect the slight temperature variations that gears undergo through friction. This technique can be complementary to thermovision, proving especially valuable for monitoring temperature in elements where measurement with thermographic cameras or direct contact thermometers is hampered. The findings demonstrate that optical measurements provide enhanced (statistical) precision in temperature readings compared to thermovision, with δT = 0.07 K for luminescence thermometry as opposed to δT = 0.3 K for the thermal camera. This work can inspire new research directions using 3D printing and materials with exciting properties, fostering innovative solutions in contemporary industrial technologies.
Electrochemical Trifluoromethylalkoxylation of Endocyclic Enamides in Batch and Flow
Authors: Leclercq Elise , Barakat Waël , Maazaoui Radhouan , Penhoat Maël , Gillaizeau Isabelle , Chausset‐Boissarie Laëtitia
Published: March 2024

A regioselective electrochemical oxytrifluoromethylation of endocyclic enamides is reported. The 1,2‐difunctionalization proceeds under mild conditions and employs the inexpensive bench stable Langlois’ reagent. This multicomponent strategy gives access to a wide range of α,β‐substituted amines by means of various alcohols as nucleophiles in high yields and with good functional group tolerance. In addition, an electrochemically induced C−H trifluoromethylation of enamides has been developed. A continuous flow protocol using a commercial microflow electrochemical reactor was also developed with improved reaction performance and efficiency over traditional batch versions without any supporting electrolyte.
Cities and Urbanization: Balancing the Environmental and Socioeconomic Dimensions of Sustainability
Authors: Loo Becky P.Y. , Tsoi Ka Ho , Feng Xinghua , Zhang Hongsheng , Lin Yinyi , Huang Zhiran , Lafortezza Raffaele , Xu Zhenci , Lin Hui
Published: March 2024

With an increasingly urbanized world, there is an urgent need to examine how cities may evolve and achieve sustainability. This paper systematically looks at the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Poyang Lake Region (PLR) in China to examine the spatial processes for insights into cities and urbanization, balancing the environmental and socio‐economic dimensions. A total of 226 805 cells are analyzed to unveil the relationship between sustainability changes in 2015–2019 period and urban form indicators, considering sociodemographic variables, geographical features, and city size as control variables. Two tree‐based machine learning models (Random Forest and XGBoost) are developed. This study provides evidence that a monocentric urban form and a high share of small activity clusters are not good for sustainability. For each urban form indicator, there is a non‐linear relationship with sustainability. The results of the machine learning models reconfirm the sustainability benefits of having a strong second activity cluster comparable to the largest one. When planning cities, some forms of land use buffering are desirable. There is also support for developing relatively large activity nodes and promoting compactness in urban form. Beyond urban form characteristics, the levels of urbanization, economic development, and population are still highly relevant.
Responsible Humidity Sensor by Direct Laser Writing on Cork Substrate
Authors: Houeix Yann , Gerardo Denice , Gómez‐Gijón Sonia , Toral Víctor , Rodríguez Noel , Morales Diego P. , Rivadeneyra Almudena
Published: March 2024

A novel laser‐induced graphene (LIG) resistive relative humidity (RH) sensor is successfully fabricated by direct laser writing on a common natural cork sheet. In this work, a straightforward fabrication is presented where LIG, porous multilayer graphene, is generated by a laser photothermal process on a carbon‐based substrate, in this case, an agglomerate cork sheet. The formation of LIG material is revealed by structural and morphological characterization using various analyses, including Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray Photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The electrical analyses are conducted to measure the resulting sheet resistance, getting results as low as 31 Ω sq−1. With the laser parameter optimized, a LIG resistive humidity transducer is manufactured and characterized in a climate chamber. This biodegradable sensor shows good linearity with a sensitivity of 0.015%/%RH from 40 to 80% RH. Additionally, the influence of temperature is studied and demonstrated a low impact on the sensor's response toward RH. Furthermore, a proof of concept is successfully implemented by integrating the transducer onto a cork stopper. Considering all, the prospect of creating an easy, fast, scalable, and cost‐effective transducer combined with the use of natural and abundant materials, leads the way for future large‐scale production of sustainable sensors.
Amorphous CoB Modified ZnxCd1‐xS to Construct Schottky Junction for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Li Xiang , Wu Siyu , Yang Weiqi , Guo Xin
Published: March 2024

In this paper, nanosized ZnxCd1‐xS is synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method and modified by amorphous CoB. ZnxCd1‐xS/CoB Schottky heterojunction composite photocatalyst is reasonably designed. The adhesion of tiny ZnxCd1‐xS nanoparticles to irregular block CoB is more conducive to the dispersion of ZnxCd1‐xS and better interface connection between catalysts, thus further promoting the migration of photogenerated carriers, protecting the photocorrosion of ZnxCd1‐xS, and finally improving the efficiency of photocatalytic hydrogen production. The composite catalyst ZnxCd1‐xS/CoB‐20 means that the loading content of CoB is 20 wt%, and the photocatalyst has the highest catalytic efficiency under visible light, reaching 1494.09 µmol within 5 h. Through the characterization of XRD, XPS, electrochemical and optical properties of the catalyst, it is proved that the introduction of CoB can significantly inhibit the recombination of photogenerated electron holes and enhance the response to visible light. This study provides a feasible scheme for co‐catalysts to replace precious metal catalysts and effectively reduce ZnxCd1‐xS photocorrosion.
Advanced 3D Network of N‐Doped Graphitic Carbon with FeNi Alloy Embedding for High‐Performance Rechargeable Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Pandikassala Ajmal , Kurian Maria , Gangadharan Pranav K. , Torris Arun , Kurungot Sreekumar
Published: March 2024

Despite the significant progress in Zn−air batteries (ZABs), their widespread use in the rechargeable sector is hindered due to the scarcity of efficient bifunctional oxygen catalysts that can catalyze both the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). To address this, an ORR/OER bifunctional electrocatalyst is designed with ultrafine alloyed FeNi nanoparticles encapsulated in a 3D interconnected N‐ doped carbon network structure, featuring a carbon nitride backbone enclosed in graphitic carbon. The FeNi electrocatalyst (3DFeNiPDC) showed good bifunctional activity toward both ORR and OER in the basic medium with a low overpotential value of 30 mV for ORR and 6 mV for OER compared to its state‐of‐the‐art counterparts Pt/C, and RuO2, respectively. Utilizing 3DFeNiPDC in a rechargeable Zn‐air battery (RZAB) yields an open circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.35 V, a maximum power density of 232 mW cm−2, and an energy density of 707 W h kg−1. Additionally, a flexible RZAB employing 3DFeNiPDC demonstrates an OCV of 1.4 V with various bending angles. These finding suggest 3DFeNiPDC as a viable alternative  to noble metal‐based RZABs, offering superior bifunctional electrocatalytic activity and stability, particularly with its enhanced air‐breathing properties facilitating improved operability under practical conditions.
Study on Performance Optimization of Perovskite Solar Cells Based on MAPbI3
Authors: Liang Cang , Huang Zhiyuan , Su Jie , Shi Lei , Liang Suxia , Dong Yuan
Published: March 2024

Methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) is a kind of perovskite material, which can effectively absorb photons in sunlight, with an adjustable band gap and relatively stable performance. Aiming at the problem of photoelectric conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells, this paper proposes a perovskite solar cell with MAPbI3 as an absorption layer. The device structure adopts a trans structure with good stability and low cost, and the hole transport layer adopts poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate(PEDOT:PSS) material, which has good electrical properties and interface properties, and has certain transparency. The electron transport layer adopts tin oxide (SnO2), and its energy band structure is beneficial to carrier transport, and it has excellent electron transport performance and chemical stability, which makes it a material for the electron transport layer. The top electrode and the bottom electrode are made of indium tin oxide (ITO) and aurum (Au) with high reliability respectively. The thickness, band gap, and defect concentration of the battery are simulated by solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS) software. The results show that the thickness and band gap of the absorption layer has great influence on the performance of the battery. The open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current density, filling factor and photoelectric conversion efficiency of the optimized perovskite solar cell reached 1.219 V, 30.1641 mA cm−2, 70.14%, and 25.78% respectively.
Closed‐Loop Wearable Device Network of Intrinsically‐Controlled, Bilateral Coordinated Functional Electrical Stimulation for Stroke
Authors: Xu Shuxing , Li Chengyu , Wei Conghui , Kang Xinfang , Shu Sheng , Liu Guanlin , Xu Zijie , Han Mengdi , Luo Jun , Tang Wei
Published: March 2024

Innovative functional electrical stimulation has demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing daily walking and rehabilitating stroke patients with foot drop. However, its lack of precision in stimulating timing, individual adaptivity, and bilateral symmetry, resulted in diminished clinical efficacy. Therefore, a closed‐loop wearable device network of intrinsically controlled functional electrical stimulation (CI‐FES) system is proposed, which utilizes the personal surface myoelectricity, derived from the intrinsic neuro signal, as the switch to activate/deactivate the stimulation on the affected side. Simultaneously, it decodes the myoelectricity signal of the patient's healthy side to adjust the stimulation intensity, forming an intrinsically controlled loop with the inertial measurement units. With CI‐FES assistance, patients’ walking ability significantly improved, evidenced by the shift in ankle joint angle mean and variance from 105.53° and 28.84 to 102.81° and 17.71, and the oxyhemoglobin concentration tested by the functional near‐infrared spectroscopy. In long‐term CI‐FES‐assisted clinical testing, the discriminability in machine learning classification between patients and healthy individuals gradually decreased from 100% to 92.5%, suggesting a remarkable recovery tendency, further substantiated by performance on the functional movement scales. The developed CI‐FES system is crucial for contralateral‐hemiplegic stroke recovery, paving the way for future closed‐loop stimulation systems in stroke rehabilitation is anticipated.
Consequences of Amyloid‐β Deficiency for the Liver
Authors: Buniatian Gayane Hrachia , Schwinghammer Ute , Tremmel Roman , Cynis Holger , Weiss Thomas S. , Weiskirchen Ralf , Lauschke Volker M. , Youhanna Sonia , Ramos Isbaal , Valcarcel Maria , Seferyan Torgom , Rahfeld Jens‐Ulrich , Rieckmann Vera , Klein Kathrin , Buadze Marine , Weber Victoria , Kolak Valentina , Gebhardt Rolf , Friedman Scott L. , Müller Ulrike C. , Schwab Matthias , Danielyan Lusine
Published: March 2024

The hepatic content of amyloid beta (Aβ) decreases drastically in human and rodent cirrhosis highlighting the importance of understanding the consequences of Aβ deficiency in the liver. This is especially relevant in view of recent advances in anti‐Aβ therapies for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, it is shown that partial hepatic loss of Aβ in transgenic AD mice immunized with Aβ antibody 3D6 and its absence in amyloid precursor protein (APP) knockout mice (APP‐KO), as well as in human liver spheroids with APP knockdown upregulates classical hallmarks of fibrosis, smooth muscle alpha‐actin, and collagen type I. Aβ absence in APP‐KO and deficiency in immunized mice lead to strong activation of transforming growth factor‐β (TGFβ), alpha secretases, NOTCH pathway, inflammation, decreased permeability of liver sinusoids, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. Inversely, increased systemic and intrahepatic levels of Aβ42 in transgenic AD mice and neprilysin inhibitor LBQ657‐treated wild‐type mice protect the liver against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced injury. Transcriptomic analysis of CCl4‐treated transgenic AD mouse livers uncovers the regulatory effects of Aβ42 on mitochondrial function, lipid metabolism, and its onco‐suppressive effects accompanied by reduced synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins. Combined, these data reveal Aβ as an indispensable regulator of cell–cell interactions in healthy liver and a powerful protector against liver fibrosis.
Elesclomol Loaded Copper Oxide Nanoplatform Triggers Cuproptosis to Enhance Antitumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Lu Xufeng , Chen Xiaodong , Lin Chengyin , Yi Yongdong , Zhao Shengsheng , Zhu Bingzi , Deng Wenhai , Wang Xiang , Xie Zuoliang , Rao Shangrui , Ni Zhonglin , You Tao , Li Liyi , Huang Yingpeng , Xue Xiangyang , Yu Yaojun , Sun Weijian , Shen Xian
Published: March 2024

The induction of cuproptosis, a recently identified form of copper‐dependent immunogenic cell death, is a promising approach for antitumor therapy. However, sufficient accumulation of intracellular copper ions (Cu2+) in tumor cells is essential for inducing cuproptosis. Herein, an intelligent cuproptosis‐inducing nanosystem is constructed by encapsulating copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles with the copper ionophore elesclomol (ES). After uptake by tumor cells, ES@CuO is degraded to release Cu2+ and ES to synergistically trigger cuproptosis, thereby significantly inhibiting the tumor growth of murine B16 melanoma cells. Moreover, ES@CuO further promoted cuproptosis‐mediated immune responses and reprogrammed the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by increasing the number of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes and secreted inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, combining ES@CuO with programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1) immunotherapy substantially increased the antitumor efficacy in murine melanoma. Overall, the findings of this study can lead to the use of a novel strategy for cuproptosis‐mediated antitumor therapy, which may enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
An Iodine‐Chemisorption Binder for High‐Loading and Shuttle‐Free Zn–Iodine Batteries
Authors: Wang Kexuan , Li Heng , Xu Zhu , Liu Yupeng , Ge Mingzheng , Wang Huibo , Zhang Hankun , Lu Yunhao , Liu Jilei , Zhang Yanyan , Tang Yuxin , Chen Shi
Published: March 2024

Aqueous zinc–iodine (Zn–I2) batteries have attracted considerable research interest as an alternative energy storage system due to their high specific capacity, intrinsic safety, and low cost. However, the notorious shuttle effect of soluble polyiodides causes severe capacity loss and poor electrochemical reversibility, restricting their practical usage. Herein, this study reports a bifunctional binder (polyacrylonitrile copolymer, as known as LA133) with strong iodine‐chemisorption capability for aqueous Zn–I2 batteries to suppress polyiodide shuttling. From both calculation and experimental data, this study reveals that the amide and carboxyl groups in LA133 binder can strongly bond to polyiodides, significantly immobilizing them at cathode side. As a result, fewer byproducts, slower hydrogen evolution, and lesser Zn dendrite in the Zn–I2 battery are observed. Consequently, the battery shows high specific capacity (202.8 mAh g−1) with high iodine utilization efficiency (96.1%), and long cycling lifespan (2700 cycles). At the high mass loading of 7.82 mg cm−2, the battery can still retain 83.3% of its initial capacity after 1000 cycles. The specific capacity based on total cathode slurry mass reaches 71.2 mAh g−1, higher than most of the recent works. The strategy opens a new avenue to address the shuttling challenge of Zn–I2 batteries through bifunctional binder.
Photodynamic patterning of living bacterial biofilms with high resolutions for information encryption and antibiotic screening
Authors: Xiao Minghui , Xue Ke , Fu Hao , Wang Jiaxin , Lv Shuyi , Sun Zhencheng , Wang Cheng , Shi Linqi , Zhu Chunlei
Published: March 2024

Controlling the growth of bacterial biofilms in a specific pattern greatly enhances the study of cell‐to‐cell interactions and paves the way for expanding their biological applications. However, the development of simple, cost‐effective, and highly resolved biopatterning approaches remains a persistent challenge. Herein, a pioneering photodynamic biopatterning technique for the creation of living bacterial biofilms with customized geometries at high resolutions is presented. First of all, an outstanding aggregation‐induced emission photosensitizer is synthesized to enable efficient photodynamic bacterial killing at a low concentration. By combining with custom‐designed photomasks featuring both opaque and transparent patterns, the viability of photosensitizer‐coated bacteria is successfully manipulated by controlling the degree of light transmittance. This process leads to the formation of living bacterial biofilms with specific patterns replicated from the photomask. Such an innovative strategy can be employed to generate living bacterial biofilms composed of either mono‐ or multispecies, with a spatial resolution of approximately 24 µm. Furthermore, its potential applications in information storage/encryption and antibiotic screening are explored. This study provides an alternative way to understand and investigate the intricate interactions among bacteria within 3D biofilms, holding great promise in the controlled fabrication of dynamic biological systems for advanced applications.
A Markerless 3D Tracking Framework for Continuum Surgical Tools Using a Surgical Tool Partial Pose Estimation Network Based on Domain Randomization
Authors: Zhou Chang , Wang Longfei , Wu Baibo , Xu Kai
Published: March 2024

3D tracking of single‐port continuum surgical tools is an essential step toward their closed‐loop control in robot‐assisted‐laparoscopy, since single‐port tools possess multiple degrees‐of‐freedom (DoFs) without distal joint sensors and hence have lower motion precision compared to rigid straight‐stemmed tools used in multi‐port robotic laparoscopy. This work proposes a novel markerless 3D tracking framework for continuum surgical tools using a proposed surgical tool partial pose estimation network (STPPE‐Net) based on U‐Net and ResNet. The STPPE‐Net estimates the segmentation and a 5‐DoF pose of the tool end‐effector. This network is entirely trained by a synthetic data generator based on domain randomization (DR) and requires zero manual annotation. The 5‐DoF pose estimation from the STPPE‐Net is combined with the surgical tool axial rotation from the robot control system. Then, the entire pose is further refined via a region‐based optimization that maximizes the overlap between the tool end‐effector segmentation from the STPPE‐Net and its projection onto the image plane of the endoscopic camera. The segmentation accuracy and 6‐DoF pose estimation precision of the proposed framework are validated on the images captured from an endoscopic single‐port system. The experimental results show the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed tracking framework for continuum surgical tools.
Maternal and infant predictors of proinflammatory milk immune activity in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Authors: Wander Katherine , Fujita Masako , Mattison Siobhán , Gauck Megan , Duris Margaret , Kiwelu Ireen , Mmbaga Blandina T.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The immune system of milk (ISOM) creates a mother–infant immune axis that plays an important role in protecting infants against infectious disease (ID). Tradeoffs in the immune system suggest the potential for both protection and harm, so we conceive of two dimensions via which the ISOM impacts infants: promotion of protective activity and control of activity directed at benign targets. High variability in ISOM activity across mother–infant dyads suggests investment the ISOM may have evolved to be sensitive to maternal and/or infant characteristics. We assessed predictors of appropriate and misdirected proinflammatory ISOM activity in an environment of high ID risk, testing predictions drawn from life history theory and other evolutionary perspectives.

Methods

We characterized milk in vitro interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) responses to Salmonella enterica (a target of protective immune activity; N = 96) and Escherichia coli (a benign target; N = 85) among mother–infant dyads in rural Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. We used ordered logistic regression and mixture models to evaluate maternal and infant characteristics as predictors of IL‐6 responses.

Results

In all models, IL‐6 responses to S. enterica increased with maternal age and decreased with gravidity. In mixture models, IL‐6 responses to E. coli declined with maternal age and increased with gravidity. No other considered variables were consistently associated with IL‐6 responses.

Conclusions

The ISOM's capacities for appropriate proinflammatory activity and control of misdirected proinflammatory activity increases with maternal age and decreases with gravidity. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the mother–infant immune axis has evolved to respond to maternal life history characteristics.
COVID‐19 mortality among Massachusetts workers and the association with telework ability, 2020
Authors: Fitzsimmons Kathleen , Hood Malena , Grattan Kathleen , Laing James , Sparer‐Fine Emily
Published: March 2024

Background

Working outside the home put some workers at risk for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) exposure and might partly explain elevated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) mortality rates in the first months of the pandemic in certain groups of Massachusetts workers. To further investigate this premise, we examined COVID‐19 mortality among Massachusetts workers, with a specific focus on telework ability based on occupation.

Methods

COVID‐19‐associated deaths between January 1 and December 31, 2020 among Massachusetts residents aged 18–64 years were analyzed. Deaths were categorized into occupation‐based quadrants (Q) of telework ability. Age‐adjusted rates were calculated by key demographics, industry, occupation, and telework quadrant using American Community Survey workforce estimates as denominators. Rate ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals comparing rates for quadrants with workers unlikely able to telework (Q2, Q3, Q4) to that among those likely able to telework (Q1) were calculated.

Results

The overall age‐adjusted COVID‐19‐associated mortality rate was 26.4 deaths per 100,000 workers. Workers who were male, Black non‐Hispanic, Hispanic, born outside the US, and with lower than a high school education level experienced the highest rates among their respective demographic groups. The rate varied by industry, occupation and telework quadrant. RRs comparing Q2, Q3, and Q4 to Q1 were 0.99 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.8−1.2), 3.2 (95% CI: 2.6−3.8) and 2.5 (95% CI: 2.0−3.0), respectively.

Conclusion

Findings suggest a positive association between working on‐site and COVID‐19‐associated mortality. Work‐related factors likely contributed to COVID‐19 among Massachusetts workers and should be considered in future studies of COVID‐19 and similar diseases.
Putting Hybrid Nanomaterials to Work for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Zhang Dong , Chen Yidan , Hao Min , Xia Younan
Published: March 2024

Hybrid nanomaterials have found use in many biomedical applications. This article provides a comprehensive review of the principles, techniques, and recent advancements in the design and fabrication of hybrid nanomaterials for biomedicine. We begin with an introduction to the general concept of material hybridization, followed by a discussion of how this approach leads to materials with additional functionality and enhanced performance. We then highlight hybrid nanomaterials in the forms of nanostructures, nanocomposites, metal–organic frameworks, and biohybrids, including their fabrication methods. We also showcase the use of hybrid nanomaterials to advance biomedical engineering in the context of nanomedicine, regenerative medicine, diagnostics, theranostics, and biomanufacturing. Finally, we offer perspectives on challenges and opportunities.
The Versatile Establishment of Charge Storage in Polymer Solid Electrolyte with Enhanced Charge Transfer for LiF‐Rich SEI Generation in Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Liang Weizhong , Zhou Xuanyi , Zhang Biao , Zhao Zishao , Song Xin , Chen Ke , Wang Li , Ma Zengsheng , Liu Jun
Published: March 2024

The solid‐state electrolyte interface (SEI) between the solid‐state polymer electrolyte and the lithium metal anode dramatically affects the overall battery performance. Increasing the content of lithium fluoride (LiF) in SEI can help the uniform deposition of lithium and inhibit the growth of lithium dendrites, thus improving the cycle stability performance of lithium batteries. Currently, most methods of constructing LiF SEI involve decomposing the lithium salt by the polar groups of the filler. However, there is a lack of research reports on how to affect the SEI layer of Li‐ion batteries by increasing the charge transfer number. In this study, a porous organic polymer with “charge storage” properties was prepared and doped into a polymer composite solid electrolyte to study the effect of sufficient charge transfer on the decomposition of lithium salts. The results show in contrast to porphyrins, the unique structure of POF allows for charge transfer between each individual porphyrin. Therefore, during TFSI− decomposition to the formation of LiF, TFSI− can obtain sufficient charge, thereby promoting the break of C−F and forming the LiF‐rich SEI. Compared with single porphyrin (0.423 e−), POF provides 2.7 times more charge transfer to LiTFSI (1.147 e−). The experimental results show that Li//Li symmetric batteries equipped with PEO‐POF can be operated stably for more than 2700 h at 60 °C. Even the Li//Li (45 μm) symmetric cells are stable for more than 1100 h at 0.1 mA cm−1. In addition, LiFePO4//PEO‐POF//Li batteries have excellent cycling performance at 2 C (80 % capacity retention after 750 cycles). Even LiFePO4//PEO‐POF//Li (45 μm) cells have excellent cycling performance at 1 C (96 % capacity retention after 300 cycles). Even when the PEO‐base is replaced with a PEG‐base and a PVDF‐base, the performance of the cell is still significantly improved. Therefore, we believe that the concept of charge transfer offers a novel perspective for the preparation of high‐performance assemblies.
Precisely Patterned Channels in a Vertical Organic Electrochemical Transistor with a Diazirine Photo‐Crosslinker
Authors: Lai Yueping , Cheng Jingliang , Xie Miao , Chen Jianhua , Zhu Guichuan , Huang Wei , Feng Liang‐Wen
Published: March 2024

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) rely on both efficient ionic doping/de‐doping process and carrier transport in the mixed ionic‐electronic channel under the modulation of gate bias. Moreover, channels that hold photopatterning capability are highly desired to minimize parasitic capacitance and simplify the fabrication process/cost. However, yielding photo‐patternable channels with both precise/robust patterning capability and controllable ionic‐electronic coupling is still challenging. Herein, double‐end trifluoromethyl diazirines (DtFDA) with different chain lengths are introduced in the OECT channel to act as both photo‐crosslinker and medium to regulate ionic‐electronic transport. Specifically, high‐resolution patterns with a minimum line width/gap of 2 μm are realized in p(g2T‐T) or Homo‐gDPP based channels by introducing DtFDA. Maximum transconductances of 68.6 mS and 81.6 mS, current on/off ratio of 106 and 107 (under a drain voltage of only ±0.1 V), are achieved in p‐ and n‐type vertical OECTs (vOECTs), respectively, along with current densities exceeding 1 kA cm−2 and good cycling stability of more than 100,000 cycles (2000 seconds). This work provides a new and facile strategy for the fabrication of vOECT channels with high resolution and high performance via the introduction of a simple and efficient crosslinker.
Lyotropic ionic liquid crystal gels derived from polyimidazolium hydrogen sulfate for enhanced proton conductivity
Authors: Liu Xin , Tan Shuai , Wang Caihong , Wu Yong
Published: March 2024

Anisotropic gels developed from polymer networks accommodating lyotropic liquid crystals are promising electrolytes but electrochemically inert polymers prevent ions from being conducted efficiently. In this work, we synthesized protic ionic liquid polymer in lyotropic ionic liquid crystal to improve proton conduction across the polymer skeleton in anisotropic gels. In situ polymerization of 1‐vinylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate ionic liquid dissolved in aqueous 1‐tetradecyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate lyotropic liquid crystal gave chemical liquid crystal gels exhibiting both dynamic order and mechanical strength. The protic ionic liquid polymer bridged the hydrogen bond chains between neighboring ionic lyotropic liquid crystal domains to give a proton conductivity of 117 mS cm−1 at 25°C. Macroscopic alignment of the liquid crystal gel achieved by mechanical shearing promoted proton conductivity to 137 mS cm−1. The macroscopically aligned liquid crystal gel acted stably in a fuel cell device, delivering a peak power density 2.95 times higher than the unaligned one. Gelation of lyotropic ionic liquid crystals with protic ionic liquid polymer provides an effective strategy to develop anisotropic gel electrolytes for electrochemical devices.
Unraveling Ferroptosis Mechanisms: Tracking Cellular Viscosity with Small Molecular Fluorescent Probes
Authors: Pareek Niharika , Mendiratta Sana , Kalita Nripankar , Sivaramakrishnan Shreya , Khan Rafique Sanu , Samanta Animesh
Published: March 2024

Ferroptosis is a recently identified form of regulated cell death characterized by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Numerous functions for ferroptosis have been identified in physiological as well as pathological processes, most notably in the treatment of cancer. The intricate balance of redox homeostasis is profoundly altered during ferroptosis, leading to alteration in cellular microenvironment. One such microenvironment is viscosity among others such as pH, polarity, and temperature. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of ferroptosis associated viscosity levels within organelles is crucial. To date, there are a very few reviews that detects ferroptosis assessing reactive species. In this review, we have summarized organelle's specific fluorescent probes that detects dynamics of microviscosity during ferroptosis. Also, we offer the readers an insight of their design strategy, photophysics and associated bioimaging concluding with the future perspective and challenges in the related field.
Measurement matters: A commentary on the state of the science on patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) in autism research
Authors: Schiltz Hillary K. , Williams Zachary J. , Zheng Shuting , Kaplan‐Kahn Elizabeth A. , Morton Hannah E. , Rosenau Kashia A. , Nicolaidis Christina , Sturm Alexandra , Lord Catherine ,   Autism PROMnet
Published: March 2024

High quality science relies upon psychometrically valid and reliable measurement, yet very few Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) have been developed or thoroughly validated for use with autistic individuals. The present commentary summarizes the current state of autism PROM science, based on discussion at the Special Interest Group (SIG) at the 2022 International Society for Autism Research (INSAR) Annual Meeting and collective expertise of the authors. First, we identify current issues in autism PROM research including content and construct operationalization, informant‐structure, measure accessibility, and measure validation and generalization. We then enumerate barriers to conducting and disseminating this research, such as a lack of guidance, concerns regarding funding and time, lack of accessible training and professionals with psychometric skills, difficulties collecting large representative samples, and challenges with dissemination. Lastly, we offer future priorities and resources to improve PROMs in autism research including a need to continue to evaluate and develop PROMs for autistic people using robust methods, to prioritize diverse and representative samples, to expand the breadth of psychometric properties and techniques, and to consider developing field specific guidelines. We remain extremely optimistic about the future directions of this area of autism research. This work is well positioned to have an immense, positive impact on our scientific understanding of autism and the everyday lives of autistic people and their families.
Are autistic females at greater risk of suicide? A call for clarity to advance suicide prevention for the whole community
Authors: Kirby Anne V. , Conner Caitlin M. , Mazefsky Carla A.
Published: March 2024

Understanding suicide risk is critical for supporting prevention. A growing body of evidence shows autistic people are at greater risk for multiple suicide‐related outcomes than non‐autistic people. This commentary is in response to an observed pattern of miscommunication in scientific and community spaces about autistic females having higher risk of suicide. However, it is not always clear who they are being compared with in these statements. To address this confusion, we summarize the current population‐based evidence on autistic suicide risk, highlighting findings related to sex similarities and differences, which actually indicates comparable rates of suicide death among autistic males and females, and mixed findings related to sex differences in risk of other suicidal behaviors. We call for greater clarity in suicide risk communication moving forward focused on outcomes, measurement, sampling methods, and comparison groups to reflect accurate conclusions about existing evidence. Further research is needed about the full range of suicide‐related outcomes for autistic people, including a greater understanding of sex differences as well as potential gender differences to include transgender and nonbinary autistic people. However, studies of sex and gender differences should not overshadow the compelling need for efforts to understand and address the elevated risk of suicidal thoughts, behaviors, and death among autistic people across sex and gender boundaries.
Use of Ferrocenyl Ni(II) and Zn(II) Porphyrins as Active Organic Electrode Materials for Sodium Secondary Batteries
Authors: Zhang Shaoning , Hwang Jinkwang , Phung Quan Manh , Matsumoto Kazuhiko , Hagiwara Rika , Shin Ji‐Young
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the potential use of ferrocenyl‐substituted porphyrins as organic electrode materials for sodium secondary batteries. Expressly, 5,15‐di(ferrocenyl)‐10,20‐di(pentafluorophenyl)porphyrins (free base, Fc−H2Por), along with its zinc (Zn[II] complex, Fc−ZnPor) and nickel (Ni[II] complex, Fc−NiPor) derivatives were synthesized and employed as the electrode materials. The charge‐discharge processes disclosed that the ferrocenyl‐substituted porphyrin compound performs electrochemical processes poorly without chelating metals. In contrast, when the ferrocenyl‐substituted porphyrins were metalated with Ni(II) and Zn(II), they exhibited dual ionic charge‐discharge capabilities, indicating their stable electrochemical properties. In particular, long‐term cycle tests emphasized the superior stability and high Coulombic efficiency of Fc−ZnPor electrodes. Computational calculations provided conclusive evidence of variances in aromatic stabilization energy based on the metal center, significantly influencing the chemical stability and electrochemical performance. These findings can deliver valuable insight for further development and optimizations in energy storage applications.
Lignin‐Derived Functional Carbon Framework for Homogeneous Sodium Deposition
Authors: Li Xiwei , Qi Yi , Lin Xuliang , Rui Xianhong , Qin Yanlin
Published: March 2024

Sodium metal batteries have become popular owing to their low redox potential, high theoretical capacity, and superior energy density. But the formation of sodium dendrites during electrochemical cycles diminishes the security and longevity of these batteries. In response to this challenge, we employ lignin as a carbon source to fabricate a three‐dimensional (3D) carbon framework current collector. This framework boosts an expansive specific surface area and a wealth of oxygen‐rich functional groups. These components serve to cushion the volume fluctuations of sodium metal throughout the electrochemical cycle, directing the even deposition of sodium ions. The as‐prepared anode displays a low overpotential of −7 mV and a stable cycling life of 400 hours at 0.5 mA cm−2. When coupled with Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, the full cell can achieve a capacity of 97.6 mAh g−1 and a capacity retention of 94.7 % after 60 cycles. This research shows that using lignin as a carbon source to prepare a 3D carbon framework current collector is an effective mean to inhibit the harmful effects of sodium dendrites on batteries.
Mo‐Doped BiVO4 as a Fast Electrode Reaction Kinetics Catalyst in Na−O2 Batteries
Authors: Li Minglu , Wang Jiazhi , He Wei , Zhang Xiong , Zhang Huijuan , Ma Jinling , Wang Yu
Published: March 2024

The highly insulated solid discharge products in sodium‐oxygen (Na−O2) batteries induce large polarization and thus heavily threaten their cycle life. Controlment of discharge products taking efficient catalyst is a best way to solve this problem. Here, Mo‐doped BiVO4 as the catalyst produces large amounts of carrier, thus boosting the battery reaction and reducing the overpotential under the light assistance. Compared with the BiVO4 without Mo doping, the doped one has a lower recombination of photogenerated carriers, thus benefiting a large polarization suppression and Na−O2 batteries running for over 270 cycles under 3.65 V as well as a fine rate performance. Besides, Mo doping reduces the size of BiVO4, beneficial for the carrier transportation and more reactions due to the large specific surface area. Experiment combined with theoretical calculation shows that Mo doping is advantageous to enhancing catalytic activity of BiVO4 due to a lower work function for easier electron extraction, thus enhancing Na2O2 decomposition capability. This work undoubtedly inspires photocatalysts′ use for solving the insulated solid discharge products decomposition in metal‐O2 batteries and provides a guide for other photocatalysts possibilities.