bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydration‐effect Boosted Active Hydrogen Facilitates Neutral Ammonia Electrosynthesis from Nitrate Reduction
Authors: Zhang Meng , Cheng Xuetao , Duan Yun , Chen Junxiang , Wang Lei , Wang Yan‐Qin
Published: October 2024

Electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia (NO3RR) in a neutral medium is a green and effective strategy for treating nitrate pollution meanwhile producing ammonia. However, the insufficient active hydrogen (H*) on the catalyst surface resulting from the sluggish Volmer step (H2O → H+ + OH−), and the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) caused by H* coupling severely restrict the enhancement of NO3RR activity. Herein, a hydration‐effect boosted H*‐rich strategy facilitating neutral ammonia electrosynthesis from nitrate reduction is proposed. The introduction of the hydration‐effect‐promoting element aluminum into the copper‐based catalyst forming CuAlO2, which adjusts the electron density distribution in the catalyst system, and the resulting hydration‐effect significantly promotes the H* generation in a neutral medium. Moreover, the rapid charge transfer at the CuO/CuAlO2 interface facilitates the reaction kinetics and the H* diffusion. More importantly, the introduction of Al weakens the overly strong adsorption of intermediates by CuO, thereby accelerating the hydrogenation process and suppressing HER. Thus, under neutral conditions, CuO/CuAlO2 reached a Faradaic efficiency and an ammonia yield as high as 97.81 ± 1.94% and 10.21 ± 0.64 mg h−1 cm−2 at −1.0 V versus RHE toward NO3RR.
Self‐Encapsulated Ni Nanoparticles on Delignified Wood Carbon for Efficient Urea‐Assisted Hydrogen Production
Authors: Shi Zhikai , Zhang Yao , Guo Wei , Niu Zhuohui , Chen Yan , Huang Jianlin
Published: October 2024

Developing efficient, low‐cost electrocatalysts for industrial‐level hydrogen production remains a significant challenge. Here lattice‐distorted Ni nanoparticles (NPs) encapsulated within a nitrogen‐doped carbon shell on delignified wood carbon (Ni‐NC@DWC) are constructed through a chitosan‐induced assembly and the pyrolysis process. Experimental and theoretical results indicate that the lattice distortion due to strong metal‐support interactions, boosts electron transfer and reaction intermediate adsorption/desorption, enhancing both the urea oxidation reaction (UOR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Interestingly, the active center Ni3+‐O is dynamically cyclically generated during the UOR. When utilized as a self‐standing electrode in an alkaline electrolyte, the Ni‐NC@DWC exhibits low potentials of 24 mV and 1.244 V at 100 mA cm−2 for HER and UOR, respectively. Moreover, the Ni‐NC@DWC achieves an ultrasmall cell voltage of 1.13 V at 100 mA cm−2 for urea‐assisted water splitting and can operate stably over 1000 h. Furthermore, when it is self‐assembled as an anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolyzer, it requires only 1.62 V at 2000 mA cm−2 for industrial urea‐assisted water splitting and operates stably for 150 h without degradation, confirming that it is highly attractive for economical, sustainable, and scalable hydrogen production.
Efficient Silicon Solar Cells with Aluminum‐Doped Zinc Oxide‐Based Passivating Contact
Authors: Gao Kun , Xu Dacheng , Wang Jing , Bi Qunyu , Wu Zhao , Lin Hong , Wang Shibo , Shi Wei , Yu Cao , Cao Fengxian , Diao Yifan , Xie Junjie , Wang Xinyu , Li Kun , Lou Xinliang , Li Wenhao , Xing Chunfang , Wang Yujiao , Yan Tong , Zhang Daliang , de Wolf Stefaan , Zhang Xiaohong , Yang Xinbo
Published: October 2024

Crystalline silicon (c‐Si) solar cells require passivating contacts to unlock their full efficiency potential. For this doped silicon layers are the materials of choice, as they yield device voltages close to the thermodynamic limit. Yet, replacing such layers with wide‐bandgap metal oxides may be advantageous from a cost perspective and minimize parasitic optical absorption. Here the aluminum‐doped zinc oxide (AZO)‐based passivating contacts with high electron selectivity are presented. The SiO2/AZO/Al2O3 stack is demonstrated to provide excellent surface passivation on c‐Si (implied Voc up to 742 mV) after thermal annealing, and an average contact resistivity of 51 mΩ cm2 is simultaneously obtained after etching off Al2O3 capping layer. By the implementation of AZO‐based electron‐selective contact, a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.3% is achieved on c‐Si solar cells, representing the PCE record for metal oxide‐based passivating contacts. Finally, the efficiency potential, cost, and industrial compatibility of the AZO‐based electron‐selective contacts are discussed, paving the way for industrial applications.
Microscopic Insights into Metallization of Diamond with Transition Metals
Authors: Fan Saifei , Zhao Kechen , Zhang Sen , Zhang Xiaohui , Gui Yushu , Liang Bo , Liu Kang , Zhang Gufei , Zhu Jiaqi
Published: October 2024

Metallization of diamond with transition metals (TMs) has attracted much attention as they play an important role in the development of precision machining, high‐end thermal management, especially for electronic devices. However, it is found that the solid‐state reaction does not stop at the interface, potentially hampering interface engineering. To unleash the full potential of diamond devices, deeper reactions are investigated in monocrystalline intrinsic diamond metallized with Ti/Pt/Au ohmic contacts combing experiments and theoretical calculations. Apart from exhibiting TiC, graphite, TMs, and diamond nanocrystallites at the interface, a unique ion‐implanted‐like multilayered structure is observed at micrometer depth. TM atoms penetrate through diamond produce a buried amorphous carbon layer under the damaged diamond lattice. In addition, these theoretical calculations reveal that the structural amorphization is catalyzed by the incorporation of TM atoms through vacancy‐mediated diffusion, which induces the closure of the bandgap of the diamond. This facilitates carriers crossing the bandgap via impurity band conduction and promotes the formation of the ohmic contact. This study provides critical insight into the microscopic mechanisms of the metallization between diamonds and TMs and could facilitate the development of diamond‐based electronic devices with a tailored electronic property.
Anti‐Swelling 3D Nanohydrogel for Efficient Osmotic Energy Conversion
Authors: Lin Cuncai , Jia Wenkai , Chang Leqi , Ren Guijing , Hu Shuhong , Sui Xin , Gao Longcheng , Sui Kunyan , Jiang Lei
Published: October 2024

Osmotic energy conversion based on reverse electrodialysis (RED) technology has attracted intense attention. As the key component, the ion‐selective membranes should meet the basic requirements of high power density, high mechanical strength, and easy preparation. Polyelectrolyte hydrogel materials are good candidates, due to their high charge density. However, the severe swelling effect decreases the ion selectivity and mechanical strength. To solve this problem, an anti‐swelling 3D nanohydrogel is demonstrated, which is in situ polymerized in the nanoporous polyimide (PI) membrane, exhibiting ultrahigh power density in osmotic energy conversion. Because of the nano‐confinement of the PI matrix, the swelling ratio of the nanohydrogel decreases to 37.5% from 593.2% of the bulk hydrogel. Meanwhile, the hybrid membrane exhibits excellent mechanical strength (≈89.5 MPa). Under a 500‐fold concentration gradient, the nanohydrogel generates a power density of up to 48.5 W m−2, one order of magnitude higher than that of the bulk hydrogel. The anti‐swelling 3D nanohydrogel introduces a new concept in designing separation membranes for osmotic energy conversion.
Recent Advances in Bacterium‐Based Therapeutic Modalities for Melanoma Treatment
Authors: Khan Mubassir , Dong Yilong , Ullah Razi , Li Menghuan , Huang Qiping , Hu Yan , Yang Li , Luo Zhong
Published: October 2024

Melanoma is one of the most severe skin cancer indications with rapid progression and a high risk of metastasis. However, despite the accumulated advances in melanoma treatment including adjuvant radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, the overall melanoma treatment efficacy in the clinics is still not satisfactory. Interestingly, bacterial therapeutics have demonstrated unique properties for tumor‐related therapeutic applications, such as tumor‐targeted motility, tailorable cytotoxicity, and immunomodulatory capacity of the tumor microenvironment, which have emerged as a promising platform for melanoma therapy. Indeed, the recent advances in genetic engineering and nanotechnologies have boosted the application potential of bacterium‐based therapeutics for treating melanoma by further enhancing their tumor‐homing, cell‐killing, drug delivery, and immunostimulatory capacities. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the state‐of‐the‐art bacterium‐based anti‐melanoma modalities, which are categorized according to their unique functional merits, including tumor‐specific cytotoxins, tumor‐targeted drug delivery platforms, and immune‐stimulatory agents. Furthermore, a perspective is provided discussing the potential challenges and breakthroughs in this area. The insights in this review may facilitate the development of more advanced bacterium‐based therapeutic modalities for improved melanoma treatment efficacy.
Hierarchical Integration of Curcumin‐Loaded CaCO3 Nanoparticles and Black Phosphorus Nanosheets in Core/Shell Nanofiber for Cranial Defect Repair
Authors: Zheng Yan , Tan Lu , Chen Hang , He Shuohan , Li Menghuan , Luo Zhong , Cai Kaiyong , Hu Yan
Published: October 2024

Reconstruction and healing of large craniofacial bone defects are major clinical challenges due to high risk of chronic inflammation and reduced cell mineralization levels. Herein, a core‐shell nanofiber‐based implant with significant pro‐osteogenesis capability for treating skull defects is reported, which is hierarchically integrated with curcumin‐loaded calcium carbonate nanoparticles (CaCO3@Cur NPs) in the outer layers and black phosphorus nanosheets (BPNSs) in the core compartments. The radical alignment of the integrated nanocomponents allows the sequential in situ release of the therapeutic agents in a controlled manner after implantation. Curcumin can repolarize M1 macrophages into M2 phenotypes for anti‐inflammation purposes. Meanwhile, the released calcium and phosphate ions can promote the biomineralization of hydroxyapatite at the defect site and facilitate bone regeneration. Evaluations on cranial defect‐bearing rat models demonstrated that the electrospun fibers in the present study substantially promoted restoration of the damaged skulls and inhibited inflammation in the wound bed. This strategy provides a new idea for the treatment of skull defects in the clinic.
An Aquatic Autonomic Nervous System
Authors: Yuan Cheng , Xu Ke‐Xin , Huang Yu‐Ting , Xu Jing‐Juan , Zhao Wei‐Wei
Published: October 2024

Reproducing human nervous systems with endogenous mechanisms has attracted increasing attention, driven by its great potential in streamlining the neuro‐electronic interfaces with bilateral signaling. Here, an artificial aquatic autonomic nervous system (ANS) with switchable excitatory/inhibitory characteristics and acetylcholine (ACh)‐mediated plasticity is reported based on the newly emerged organic photoelectrochemical transistor (OPECT). Under the modulation of spatial light and ACh, the system exhibits an immediate switch between excitation and inhibition, and many pulse patterns as well as advanced ANS functions are mimicked. To demonstrate its potential usage, the artificial ANS is then utilized to control artificial pupils and muscles to emulate real biological responses during an emergency. In contrast to previous solid‐state attempts, this ANS is aqueous compatible just like biological nervous systems, which are capable of real neurotransmitter mediation.
Enable Rechargeable Carbon Fluoride Batteries with Unprecedented High Rate and Long Life by Oxygen Doping and Electrolyte Formulation
Authors: Li Decheng , Yu Yifan , Li Chilin
Published: October 2024

Here, a rechargeable carbon fluoride battery is demonstrated with unprecedented high rate and long life by oxygen doping and electrolyte formulation. The introductions of Mn2+–O catalyst and porous structure during the oxidation process of CFx cathode can promote the splitting of Li–F during charging. By further modulating the electrolyte with triphenylantimony chloride (TSbCl) as anion acceptor and CsF as product modulator, the more readily dissociable CsLiF2 product instead of LiF is preferentially formed, and the TSbCl‐salt protection interface is constructed to confine Li–F based products and reduce fluoride loss at cathode side. These effects endow Li‐CFx batteries with durable reversible conversion reaction (for at least 600 cycles), ultrahigh rate performance (e.g., 364 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1) and low charging plateau voltage down to 3.2 V. The cathode exhibits the maximum power density of 38342 W kg−1 and energy density of 1012 Wh kg−1. Furthermore, this Li‐CFx system demonstrates the promising prospects for applications in view of its low temperature operation (e.g., 280 mAh g−1 at −20 °C), low self‐discharge ability, large‐scale pouch cell fabrication and high cathode loading (5–6 mg cm−2), enabling it to move beyond previous role as primary battery and into new role as fast‐charging rechargeable battery with high energy density.
Electrochemical Switching of Electromagnetism by Hierarchical Disorder Tailored Atomic Scale Polarization
Authors: Wu Zhengchen , Yang Liting , Yang Xiaofen , Liang Guisheng , Liu Min , Chen Guanyu , Wu Yuyang , Liu Minmin , Wen Meichen , Lai Yuxiang , Che Renchao
Published: October 2024

High‐frequency electronic response governs a broad spectrum of electromagnetic applications from radiation protection, and signal compatibility, to energy recovery. Despite various efforts to manage electric conductivity, dynamic control over dielectric polarization for real‐time electromagnetic modulation remains a notable challenge. Herein, an electrochemical lithiation‐driven hierarchical disordering strategy is demonstrated for actively modulating electromagnetic properties. The controllable formation and diffusion of coherent interfaces and cation vacancies tailor the coupling of atomic electric field and thus the locally polarized domains, which leads to the reversible electromagnetic transparency/absorption switching with a tunable range of −0.8–−20.4 dB for the reflection loss and a broad operation bandwidth of 4.6 GHz. Compared to traditional methods of heteroatomic doping, hydrogenation, mechanical deformation, and phase transition, the electrochemical strategy shows a larger regulation scope of dielectric permittivity with the maximum increase ratios of 260% and 1950% for real and imaginary parts, respectively. This enables the construction of various device architectures including the adaptive window and pixelated metasurface. The results offer opportunities to achieve intelligent electromagnetic devices and pave an avenue to rejuvenate various electromagnetic functions of semiconductive oxides.
Unravelling Optoelectronic and Transport Properties in RuZrX (X=Si, Ge) Alloys: Insights from DFT
Authors: Gurunani Bharti , Gupta Dinesh C.
Published: October 2024

The structural, mechanical, electronic, and thermoelectric properties of RuZrSi and RuZrGe half‐Heusler alloys were thoroughly examined using the full‐potential linearized augmented plane‐wave (FP‐LAPW) method within the WIEN2k code, based on Density Functional Theory (DFT). The study utilized the Perdew‐Burke‐Ernzerhof generalized gradient approximation (GGA‐PBE) and the Tran‐Blaha‐Johnson (TB‐mBJ) approximations for the exchange‐correlation potential. The findings reveal that both alloys are semiconductors with indirect band gaps, and they are ductile, anisotropic, and mechanically stable. These properties make them suitable for various practical applications. The electronic analysis confirms the semiconducting nature of RuZrSi and RuZrGe due to their indirect band gaps. Mechanically, both alloys show ductility and stability, enhancing their potential usability. Additionally, their thermoelectric properties are notable, with high Seebeck coefficients (S) and a significant figure of merit (ZT), indicating strong performance in thermoelectric devices. Optical properties, including the dielectric function and absorption coefficients, suggest these materials have considerable potential for photovoltaic and optical applications, especially in the UV and visible light spectrum. While these results are promising, experimental validation is required to confirm the theoretical predictions made in this study.
Optical Micro/Nanofiber Enabled Multiaxial Force Sensor for Tactile Visualization and Human–Machine Interface
Authors: Xie Yu , Pan Jing , Yu Longteng , Fang Hubiao , Yu Shaoliang , Zhou Ning , Tong Limin , Zhang Lei
Published: October 2024

Tactile sensors with capability of multiaxial force perception play a vital role in robotics and human–machine interfaces. Flexible optical waveguide sensors have been an emerging paradigm in tactile sensing due to their high sensitivity, fast response, and antielectromagnetic interference. Herein, a flexible multiaxial force sensor enabled by U‐shaped optical micro/nanofibers (MNFs) is reported. The MNF is embedded within an elastomer film topped with a dome‐shaped protrusion. When the protrusion is subjected to vector forces, the embedded MNF undergoes anisotropic deformations, yielding time‐resolved variations in light transmission. Detection of both normal and shear forces is achieved with sensitivities reaching 50.7 dB N−1 (14% kPa−1) and 82.2 dB N−1 (21% kPa−1), respectively. Notably, the structural asymmetry of the MNF induces asymmetrical optical modes, granting the sensor directional responses to four‐directional shear forces. As proof‐of‐concept applications, tactile visualizations for texture and relief pattern recognition are realized with a spatial resolution of 160 µm. Moreover, a dual U‐shaped MNF configuration is demonstrated as a human–machine interface for cursor manipulation. This work represents a step towards advanced multiaxial tactile sensing.
USP26 Combats Age‐Related Declines in Self‐Renewal and Multipotent Differentiation of BMSC by Maintaining Mitochondrial Homeostasis
Authors: Xu Yiming , Chang Leilei , Chen Yong , Dan Zhou , Zhou Li , Tang Jiyuan , Deng Lianfu , Tang Guoqing , Li Changwei
Published: October 2024

Age‐related declines in self‐renewal and multipotency of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) limit their applications in tissue engineering and clinical therapy. Thus, understanding the mechanisms behind BMSC senescence is crucial for maintaining the rejuvenation and multipotent differentiation capabilities of BMSCs. This study reveals that impaired USP26 expression in BMSCs leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, ultimately resulting in aging and age‐related declines in the self‐renewal and multipotency of BMSCs. Specifically, decreased USP26 expression results in decreased protein levels of Sirtuin 2 due to its ubiquitination degradation, which leads to mitochondrial dysfunction in BMSCs and ultimately resulting in aging and age‐related declines in self‐renewal and multilineage differentiation potentials. Additionally, decreased USP26 expression in aging BMSCs is a result of dampened hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α) expression. HIF‐1α facilitates USP26 transcriptional expression by increasing USP26 promoter activity through binding to the ‐191 — ‐198 bp and ‐262 — ‐269 bp regions on the USP26 promoter. Therefore, the identification of USP26 as being correlated with aging and age‐related declines in self‐renewal and multipotency of BMSCs, along with understanding its expression and action mechanisms, suggests that USP26 represents a novel therapeutic target for combating aging and age‐related declines in the self‐renewal and multipotent differentiation of BMSCs.
Tailoring Zn2+ Flux by an Ion Acceleration Layer Modified Separator for High‐Rate Long‐Lasting Zn Metal Anodes
Authors: Tan Yicheng , Chen Duo , Yao Tengyu , Zhang Yiming , Miao Chenglin , Yang Hang , Wang Yuanhang , Li Li , Kotsiubynskyi Volodymyr , Han Wei , Shen Laifa
Published: October 2024

A large concentration gradient originating from sluggish ion transport on the surface of Zn metal anodes will result in uneven Zn2+ flux, giving rise to severe dendrite growth, especially at high current density. Herein, an ion acceleration layer is introduced by a facile separator engineering strategy to realize modulated Zn2+ flux and dendrite‐free deposition. Zinc hexacyanoferrate as the modifying agent featuring strong zincophilicity and rapid diffusion tunnel can enable fast trap for Zn2+ near the electrode surface and immediate transport onto deposition sites, respectively. The ion acceleration effect is substantiated by improved ion conductivity, decreased activated energy, and promoted Zn2+ transference number, which can moderate concentration gradient to guide homogenous Zn2+ flux distribution. As a result, the separator engineering guarantees Zn||Zn symmetrical cells with long‐term stability of 2700 h at 2 mA cm−2, and 1770 h at a large current density of 10 mA cm−2. Moreover, cycling stability and rate capability for full cells with different cathodes can be substantially promoted by the modified separator, validating its superior practical feasibility. This study supplies a new scalable approach to tailoring ion flux near the electrode surface to enable robust Zn metal anodes at a high current density.
Frequency‐Controlled Fluidic Oscillators for Soft Robots
Authors: Mousa Mostafa , Rezanejad Ashkan , Gorissen Benjamin , Forte Antonio E.
Published: October 2024

Electronic‐free controls have recently emerged as one of the main topics in soft robotics. However, electronic‐free fluidic circuits still lack controllability and reconfigurability to achieve different functions. Here, reconfigurable pneumatic valves that widen the design space of fluidic circuits are presented. The significance of two parameters on the valve's operation: a pre‐defined manufacturing parameter that sets the initial operational range of the valve, and a second, on‐the‐fly modifiable geometric parameter that shifts the behavior of the valve during operation is shown. It is demonstrated that equipping the valve with these reconfigurable features enables the tuning of fluidic oscillatory circuits as illustrated by two examples: a frequency‐controlled relaxation oscillator and a reconfigurable ring oscillator. The relaxation oscillator is employed to control the actuation frequency of a soft hopper, which is able to achieve 80 to 125 hops min−1 and a hopping speed ranging from ≈1 to ≈1.185 BL s−1. Additionally, the reconfigurable ring oscillator is used to demonstrate how each output frequency can be controlled independently, via a soft robotic crawler that can navigate in three directions, and a volume‐controlled fluidic pump able to achieve mixing of solutions in environments where electronic components cannot operate.
Unraveling subcellular functional traits: Adaptive insights into chloroplast ultrastructure in nonmodel species
Authors: Pireda Saulo , Da Cunha Maura
Published: October 2024

This essay discusses how the ultrastructural changes in chloroplasts, particularly the mechanisms of thylakoid membrane unstacking, help maintain the photosynthetic performance of photosystem II (PSII) under stress conditions. This phenomenon may facilitate the repair of damaged PSII by providing access to the repair machinery. It is argued that this PSII repair mechanism accelerates PSII recovery, optimizing photosynthetic processes in stressed plants. Although some studies demonstrate the relationship between thylakoid membrane unstacking in stress conditions, these studies were developed with model species under controlled conditions. Thus, this essay serves as a validation tool for these previous studies, because it demonstrates that the relationships between ultrastructural changes in chloroplasts and the functioning of PSII are essential acclimative strategies for nonmodel plants to survive the constant edaphoclimatic changes of natural environments. Understanding these subcellular dynamics can significantly inform biologists about the plastic potential of plants, especially in heterogeneous environments. An integrated approach in future studies is necessary, highlighting the importance of exploring plant functional traits at multiple scales, because subcellular characteristics have great potential to understand plant acclimatization.
A Site‐Specific Click Chemistry Approach to Di‐Ubiquitylate H1 Variants Reveals Position‐Dependent Stimulation of the DNA Repair Protein RNF168
Authors: Franz Pauline , Delvaux de Fenffe Charlotte M. , Fierz Beat
Published: October 2024

Ubiquitylation of histone H2A at lysines 13 and 15 by the E3 ligase RNF168 plays a key role in orchestrating DNA double‐strand break (DSB) repair, which is often deregulated in cancer. RNF168 activity is triggered by DSB signaling cascades, reportedly through K63‐linked poly‐ubiquitylation of linker histone H1. However, direct experimental evidence of this mechanism has been elusive, primarily due to the lack of methods to specifically poly‐ubiquitylate H1. Here, we developed a versatile click chemistry approach to covalently link multiple proteins in a site‐specific, controlled, and stepwise manner. Applying this method, we synthesized H1 constructs bearing triazole‐linked di‐ubiquitin on four DNA repair‐associated ubiquitylation hotspots (H1KxUb2, at K17, 46, 64 and 96). Integrated into nucleosome arrays, the H1KxUb2 variants stimulated H2A ubiquitylation by RNF168 in a position‐dependent manner, with H1K17Ub2 showing the strongest RNF168 activation effect. Moreover, we show that di‐ubiquitin binding is the driving force underlying RNF168 recruitment, introducing H1K17Ub2 into living U‐2 OS cells. Together, our results support the hypothesis of poly‐ubiquitylated H1 guiding RNF168 recruitment to DSB sites. Moreover, we demonstrate how the streamlined synthesis of H1KxUb2 variants enables mechanistic studies into RNF168 regulation, with potential implications for its inhibition in susceptible cancers.
Hydrogen‐Bond‐Regulated Mechanochemical Synthesis of Covalent Organic Frameworks: Cocrystal Precursor Strategy for Confined Assembly
Authors: Chen Hongguang , Feng Daming , Wei Fengxia , Guo Fang , Cheetham Anthony K.
Published: October 2024

Two‐dimensional imine covalent organic frameworks (2D imine‐COFs) are crystalline porous materials with broad application prospects. Despite the efforts into their design and synthesis, the mechanisms of their formation are still not fully understood. Herein, a one‐pot two‐step mechanochemical cocrystal precursor synthetic strategy is developed for efficient construction of 2D imine‐COFs. The mechanistic investigation demonstrated that the cocrystal precursors of 4,4′,4′′‐(1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4,6‐triyl)trianiline (TAPT) and p‐toluenesulphonic acid (PTSA) sufficiently regulate the crystalline structure of COF. Evidenced by characterizations and theoretical studies, a helical hydrogen‐bond network was constructed by the N−H⋅⋅⋅O supramolecular synthons between amino and sulfonic groups in TAPT‐PTSA, demonstrating the role of cocrystals in promoting the organized stacking of interlayer π–π interactions, layer arrangement, and interlayer spacing, thus facilitating the orderly assembly of COFs. Moreover, the protonation degree of TAPT amines, which tuned nucleophilic directionality, enabled the sequential progression of intra‐ and interlayer imine condensation reactions, inhibiting the formation of amorphous polymers. The transformation from cocrystal precursors to COFs was achieved through comprehensive control of hydrogen bond and covalent bond sites. This work significantly advances the concept of hydrogen‐bond‐regulated COF assembly and its mechanochemical method in the design and synthesis of 2D imine‐COFs, further elucidating the mechanistic aspects of their mechanochemical synthesis.
Fabrication of Thermo‐Responsive Polymer‐MOF@cellulase Composites with Improved Catalytic Performance for Hydrolysis of Cellulose
Authors: Ali Tajwar Muhammad , Liu Yutong , Qi Li
Published: October 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are considered as an ideal enzyme support because of their porous structural superiority. However, MOFs@enzyme composites have usually compromised their hydrolysis efficiency due to the narrow space inducing unfavourable enzyme conformations. Herein, a thermo‐responsive poly(N,N‐dimethylacrylamide) (PD) was fixed onto the surface of UiO‐66‐NH2 (UiO) through a post‐synthetic modification protocol. Using poly(2‐vinyl‐4,4 dimethylazlactone) (V) as a linker, PVD‐UiO@cellulase composites were fabricated after cellulase was immobilized onto the UiO surface through covalent bonding. The composites conferred favorable cellulase conformations, boosting hydrolysis efficiency and stability, which relied on the soft PVD shell and confinement effect yielded by the curled PVD chains at high temperatures. Compared with free cellulase, the proposed composites exhibited a 33.1‐fold enhancement of the Kcat values at 50 °C. The PVD‐UiO@cellulase composites were applied to the hydrolysis of cellulose in the stalks and leaves of Epipremnum aureum. The results highlight the potential of smart PVD‐UiO@cellulase composites in the hydrolysis of cellulose, affording a valuable platform for the preparation of unique MOFs@enzyme composites and their industrial applications.
Optimal containment control for multi‐agent systems using fast adaptive dynamic programming
Authors: Cao Ao , Wang Fuyong , Liu Zhongxin , Chen Zengqiang
Published: October 2024

In this paper, an innovative adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) algorithm with fast convergence speed is designed for the optimal containment control problem of discrete‐time linear multi‐agent systems. Precisely, a quadratic input energy cost function, including local containment error information and actuator information in the neighborhood, is designed for each follower. Solving the stationary condition of the cost function, the optimal containment controllers are obtained. Traditional ADP methods use actor–critic neural networks to approximate optimal costs and control strategies, it is time‐consuming to solve large‐scale multi‐agent problems due to the computational complexity of neural networks. In order to seek faster convergence speed of optimal containment control without knowing the model information, the fast ADP algorithm framework is designed, it is proved theoretically that the convergence speed is determined by some configurable parameters, and the whale optimization algorithm is employed to globally optimize the parameters of given spaces to derive the optimal configuration. Finally, numerical simulation results are given to verify the effectiveness of the designed algorithm.
Experimental Set‐Up for Measurement of Half‐Cell‐ and Over‐Potentials of Flow Batteries During Operation
Authors: Gonzalez Gabriel , Peljo Pekka
Published: October 2024

The study of flow batteries (FBs) requires the development of tools able to evaluate their performance during operation in a reliable and simple way. In this work, we present an experimental set‐up that allows the on‐line monitoring of the half‐cells state of charge and apparent overpotentials on the positive and negative electrodes during battery operation. These measurements are feasible by using additional flow cells that include a reference electrode on each side. We used the experimental set‐up to study the performance of the vanadium system as well as a previously reported stable organic couple. The studies consisted on short cycling operation at different current densities and polarization curves at different flow rates and states of charge. By confirming previous results obtained for vanadium‐FBs and extending the analysis to further systems, we demonstrated that this approach provides a reliable deeper insight into the battery performance and the processes taking place during operation.
Influence of Temperature and Pressure on the Wetting Progress in 21700 Lithium‐Ion Battery Cells: Experiment, Model, and Lattice Boltzmann Simulation
Authors: Wanner Johannes , Burgard Matthias , Othman Nabih , Singh Soumya , Birke Kai Peter
Published: October 2024

The electrolyte filling and subsequent wetting of the active material is a time‐critical process in the manufacturing of lithium‐ion batteries. Due to the metallic cell housing, the process phenomena are insufficiently accessible, preventing the replication of the wetting processes by mathematical or simulative methods and hindering efforts to accelerate the wetting process. Therefore, this publication employs a glass cell housing for electrolyte filling of a 21700 cylindrical cell to investigate the wetting at different temperatures and process pressures. In parallel, a mathematical replication of the wetting, as well as a lattice Boltzmann pore‐scale simulation, is used to evaluate the influence of these varying process boundary conditions. The results show a strong temperature dependence on electrolyte wetting and the positive effect of pressure changes in the wetting process. These findings are particularly relevant to the process design of large‐scale cylindrical cell manufacturing.
Moisture‐resistant nitroaromatic explosive gas sensor based on hydrophilic pentiptycene polymer
Authors: Kim Gyeongsoo , Lee Sun Bu , Heo Jaeyoung , An Tae Eun , Lee Gang Min , Kim Junggong , Kim Keunyoung , Lee Jongman , Bae Han Yong , Song Changsik
Published: October 2024

The detection of explosive materials, particularly nitroaromatic compounds such as 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT), is critical for public safety and national security. Existing detection methods often require complex instrumentation, limiting their applicability for real‐time or in‐field use. Fluorescent sensors, which offer rapid and sensitive detection through fluorescence quenching, present a promising alternative. This study evaluates the performance of two pentiptycene‐based polymers, P‐1 and P‐2, in detecting explosive vapors, with a specific focus on their behavior under high‐humidity conditions. P‐2, modified with triethylene glycol groups, demonstrated significantly increased hydrophilicity compared to the commonly studied P‐1, as confirmed by contact angle measurements. Spectroscopic analysis revealed a blue shift in P‐2's UV–Vis absorption and photoluminescence spectra, indicating electronic property changes due to structural modifications. The enhanced hydrophilicity of P‐2 enabled it to maintain stable sensing performance under moist conditions, showing less than a 10% reduction in sensitivity, compared to the 20% decrease observed in P‐1. This superior moisture resistance suggests that P‐2 is a more robust and practical sensor for explosive detection in environments with variable humidity levels.
An undergraduate research experience in CRISPR‐Cas9 mediated eukaryotic genome editing to teach fundamental biochemistry techniques
Authors: Tonsager Andrew J. , Stargell Laurie A.
Published: October 2024

CRISPR‐Cas9 technology is an established, powerful tool for genome editing through the ability to target specific DNA sequences of interest for introduction of desired genetic modifications. CRISPR‐Cas9 is utilized for a variety of purposes, ranging from a research molecular biology tool to treatment for human diseases. Due to its prominence across a variety of applications, it is critical that undergraduates in the life sciences are educated on CRISPR‐Cas9 technology. To this end, we created an intensive eight‐week long course‐based undergraduate research experience (CURE) designed for students to understand CRISPR‐Cas9 genome editing and perform it in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Students enrolled in the CURE participate in 2, 3‐h sessions a week and are engaged in the entire process of CRISPR‐Cas9 genome editing, from preparation of genome editing reagents to characterization of mutant yeast strains. During the process, students master fundamental techniques in the life sciences, including sterile technique, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), primer design, sequencing requirements, and data analysis. The course is developed with flexibility in the schedule for repetition of techniques in the event of a failed experiment, providing an authentic research experience for the students. Additionally, we have developed the course to be easily modified for the editing of any yeast gene, offering the potential to expand the course in research‐driven classroom or laboratory settings.
A BreakoutEDU for understanding gene expression in high school. A case study: Design, implementation, and evaluation of the emotions of its implementation
Authors: Martínez‐Carmona Marina , Ayuso Fernández G. Enrique , Fernández‐Díaz Manuel , Serrano‐García Francisco , Griñán Antonia Plaza
Published: October 2024

Knowledge about genetics is essential to build a society capable of participating in socioscientific and ethical debates. However, this subject remains difficult for students, making it necessary to develop new educational strategies, such as gamification. Thus, two main objectives are established in this work: (a) to design and evaluate BreakoutEDU, a gamified activity to improve understanding of the content of gene expression; and (b) to study the emotions triggered by this activity among students. Using questionnaires and observation templates, the implementation of BreakoutEDU is evaluated in two groups of first‐year high school students (15 and 10 students). The results are analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. Bearing in mind the limitations of this study, it is concluded that the designed BreakoutEDU could support gamification as a good strategy to contextualize and approach the abstract content of gene expression. Moreover, the activity could maintain a balance between time, difficulty and students' skills, encourage teamwork and trigger mainly positive emotions.
E!Canasta: A card game to teach ATP synthesis and metabolic regulation in biochemistry classes
Authors: Faria de Souza Thalles Henrique , Figueiredo Peloso Eduardo , Gerber Hornink Gabriel
Published: October 2024

Understanding ATP formation is essential for learning metabolism and is central to grasping metabolic processes as a whole. However, due to the high level of abstraction, the number of intermediate substrates, the connections, and integrated regulation, its comprehension often poses a challenge. This and the fact that traditional teaching methods struggle when dealing with highly abstract concepts, game‐based strategies present a more concrete and dynamic alternative, which led to the creation of E!Canasta (card game). Developed based on Canasta and adapted in order to improve the learning of concepts, including some of pathway's regulation and integration, E!Canasta motivates students and promotes engagement in a fun activity. Students assemble a sequence of cards representing the glycolysis, acetyl‐CoA, Krebs cycle, and electron transport chain, which correspond to the card suits. Strategically, some of the cards hold special feats that simulate some aspects of metabolic regulation and integration (to give or take away points). At the end of the game, points are added up for sequences and cards with positive or negative effects. The game was played with two classes of students enrolled in biochemistry as part of their graduations (86 players). Student perception on gameplay, motivation and understanding was measured through an anonymous Likert scale questionnaire, with very positive results in all questions. Statistically significant correlations were observed regarding the perceived comprehension of pathways and their regulation, and in linking motivation with a positive gaming experience, showcasing that E!Canasta demonstrates considerable educational potential, along with an enjoyable experience for learning ATP synthesis.
Quantitation of the DNA‐dependent protein kinase inhibitor peposertib (M3814) and metabolite in human plasma by LC–MS/MS
Authors: Christner Susan M. , Parise Robert A. , Bakkenist Christopher J. , Davis S. Lindsey , Feng Ye , Synold Timothy , Gore Steven , Beumer Jan H.
Published: October 2024

The DNA‐dependent protein kinase (DNA‐PK) is an abundant nuclear protein that mediates DNA double‐strand break repair by nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ). As such, DNA‐PK is critical for V(D)J recombination in lymphocytes and for survival in cells exposed to ionizing radiation and clastogens. Peposertib (M3814) is a small molecule DNA‐PK inhibitor currently in preclinical and clinical development for cancer treatment. We have developed a high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry method for quantitating peposertib and its metabolite in 0.1 mL human plasma. After MTBE liquid–liquid extraction, chromatographic separation was achieved with a Phenomenex Synergi polar reverse phase (4 μm, 2 × 50 mm) column and a gradient of 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile and water over an 8 min run time. Mass spectrometric detection was performed on an ABI SCIEX 4000 with electrospray, positive‐mode ionization. The assay was linear from 10 to 3000 ng/mL for peposertib and 1–300 ng/mL for the metabolite and proved to be both accurate (97.3%–103.7%) and precise (<8.9%CV) fulfilling criteria from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance on bioanalytical method validation. This liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectroscopy (LC–MS/MS) assay will support several ongoing clinical studies by defining peposertib pharmacokinetics.
Why Do Some Depressive Patients Have Suicidal Ideation but Others Not? Suicidal Ideation From the Perspective of Affective Neuroscience Personality Traits
Authors: Hoşgören Alici Yasemin , Ceran Selvi , Hasanli Jamal , Asut Gonca , Özel Beren , Ucar Hasanli Zehra , Saygi Gökçe , Bağcaz Arda , Misir Emre
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Although major depression is the disorder most frequently associated with suicidal behavior, it is unclear that major depressive disorder patients may develop suicidal ideation. Basic affective system theory may provide a novel and beneficial viewpoint in this field. The goal of this study was to investigate the basic affective system in relation to suicidal ideation in individuals with depression.

Method

The study population comprised 160 participants who had been formally diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Participants were divided into two groups according to whether they had suicide ideation (depression with suicide [DS]) (N = 93) or not (depression with no suicidal ideation [DNS]) (N = 67). The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Suicide Probability Scale (SPS), the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), and the Affective Neuroscience Personality Scale (ANPS) were applied. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) 24 and the SPSS macroprocess, which were specifically developed for assessing complex models including serial mediators, were used to analyze the data.

Results

The mean age of all participants was 31.1 ± 11 years, and most of them were female (65%). The DS group had a higher family history of psychiatric medication use and suicidal attempts. In addition, BDI, BHS, and SPS total scores were higher, as well as ANGER subscale scores were higher in the DS group. In mediation analysis, the ANGER subscale significantly predicted the presence of suicide ideation. We observed a direct effect of the ANGER subscale score on suicide ideation as well as an indirect effect of the ANGER subscale score on suicidal ideation via depression severity.

Conclusion

Higher scores on ANGER are associated with suicidal ideation. Neurobiological correlates, including the ANGER system, may be promising in understanding suicidal behaviors.
The Relationship Between Attention and Suicidal Ideation Among Patients With Adult‐Onset Chronic Schizophrenia
Authors: Wang Qiongzhang , Zhou Yurou , Xu Weiqian , Tang Wei , Liu Jing
Published: October 2024

Background

Patients with chronic schizophrenia (SZ) have a high risk of suicide, and their cognition function is impaired. We aimed to explore the relationship between attention and suicidal ideation among patients with adult‐onset chronic SZ.

Methods

A total of 416 patients with adult‐onset chronic SZ were enrolled in this study. We divided patients into suicidal ideation group and non‐suicidal ideation group according to the evaluation results of the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation. Psychotic symptoms were measured by Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and cognitive function was measured by Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). Insomnia symptoms were measured by Insomnia Severity Index (ISI).

Results

Age was significantly different (44.28 ± 10.58 vs. 48.46 ± 12.23, t = 10.64, p = 0.001) between the two groups, and the patients with suicidal ideation were younger than patients without suicidal ideation. The positive symptom scores of the PANSS, the scores of ISI, and attention scores of RBANS were higher in patients with suicidal ideation than patients without suicidal ideation (17.30 ± 5.67 vs. 15.58 ± 4.90, t = 9.633, p = 0.002; 3.00 [1.00–6.00] vs. 2.00 [1.00–3.50], Z = −2.048, p = 0.041; 81.80 ± 14.99 vs. 76.91 ± 13.88, t = 10.101, p = 0.002). In the logistic regression analysis, age (odds ratio [OR], 0.973; 95% confidence interval [95%CI], [0.955–0.992]; p = 0.005), positive symptom scores of PANSS (OR, 1.063; 95%CI, [1.019–1.109]; p = 0.005), ISI scores (OR, 1.098; 95%CI, [1.037–1.163]; p = 0.001), and attention scores of RBANS (OR, 1.029; 95%CI, [1.013–1.047]; p = 0.001) were independently associated with the occurrence of suicidal ideation among patients with adult‐onset chronic SZ.

Conclusions

High attention scores of RBANS were a risk factor for suicidal ideation among patients with adult‐onset chronic SZ.
Industry 4.0‐driven business model innovation for supply chain sustainability: An exploratory case study
Authors: Krishnan Ramesh , Phan Phi Yen , Krishnan S. Navaneetha , Agarwal Renu , Sohal Amrik
Published: October 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the automotive industry, firms are increasingly turning to advanced Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies to drive innovation and sustainability. While I4.0 technologies hold immense potential for Business Model Innovation (BMI) and supply chain (SC) sustainability, a gap exists in understanding how firms can leverage BMI and SCS effectively. This study addresses this gap and explores the impact of implementing I4.0 on BMI and its effects on SC sustainability. Utilizing an exploratory case study approach, the research investigates an Indian automobile SC and highlights how I4.0 technologies such as IoT, cloud computing, additive manufacturing, analytics, and automation contribute to BMI, enhancing operational efficiency and SC sustainability. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration among SC entities and the need for support from large‐scale manufacturers for the initial adoption of I4.0 technologies at the small‐scale supplier level. Based on these findings, the study develops the ‘I4.0‐enabled BMI for SC Sustainability’ framework, providing a structured approach for integrating I4.0 and BMI to enhance SC sustainability. This research investigates and applies Dynamic Capability (DC) theory to examine I4.0 transformations and contributes to DC theory by demonstrating how I4.0 facilitates BMI across the value chain, leading to improved sustainability performance.