bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasmonic Nanograin Metasurface with Disorder‐Enhanced Biosensing for SARS‐CoV‐2 Variant and Antibodies
Authors: Li Fajun , Guan Chaoheng , Chen Kaiyun , Jiang Yuanyuan , Xie Yinong , Wu Zhilin , Zhu Jiaheng , Hong Junping , Zhang Yulong , Chen Yixin , Zhu Jinfeng
Published: May 2024

Recently, the concept of introducing disorder into ordered metasurfaces or periodic metastructures has shown great potential in improving their performance for light extraction, scattering, reflection, and radiation. However, its use in optical biosensing enhancement is still barely reported. Here, a kind of plasmonic biosensors based on disorder‐enhanced nanograin metasurfaces (DENMs) are proposed, and utilized for high‐sensitivity detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant and vaccine‐induced total antibodies. With the aim to elucidate the physics of short‐range‐disordered meta‐elements in long‐range‐ordered metastructures, the meta‐atom evolution is deduced from periodic nanohole metasurfaces to DENMs and totally disordered nanograin metasurfaces. It is found that the disorder of nanograin plays a critical role in elevating the DENM surface sensitivity of biomolecules. The DENM‐based biosensing demonstrates an extremely high diagnostic specificity with the probability P < 0.0001 on distinguishing the Omicron variant from other respiratory viruses. Moreover, these biosensors are used as a convenient tool to monitor vaccine efficacy for inoculators with the third booster injections. This study implies the promise of disorder‐enhanced metasurfaces on biomedical detection and will guide their applications on virus early discovery and prevention for future mobile healthcare.
Homogenization and Upcycling of Hetero Spent LiCoO2 Cathodes: Rational Introduction of Li/Co Anti‐Sites Toward Enhanced High‐Voltage Stability
Authors: Lei Hai , Zeng Zihao , Li Jiexiang , Cui Xinwei , Wang Bin , Shi Yanke , Sun Wei , Ji Xiaobo , Yang Yue , Ge Peng
Published: May 2024

Captured by relatively low energy consumption and harmful gas‐emission, direct regeneration has captured numerous attention, but still suffers from different particle sizes and diverse doping hetero‐elements, hardly meeting the market demand. Herein, assisted by the crush‐sinter regeneration from element to grain further to particle, homogenized recovery of hetero spent LiCoO2 is successfully carried out. More interestingly, after tailoring Li/Co anti‐sites ratio, the redox activity of Co‐ions is remarkably enhanced, effectively inhibiting the irreversible escape of O‐atoms under high voltage, bringing about the fascinating electrochemical performance and structural stability. As anticipated, the regenerated LiCoO2 delivered a considerable capacity of 175.2 mAh g−1 at 1.0 C, whilst its capacity retention can remain at 88.86% even after 500 cycles at 5.0 C, better than that of commercial materials. Assembling regenerated materials versus. graphite pouch cell, their considerable practical capacity retention can be kept at ≈91.4% even after 500 cycles. Supported by in situ XRD, electronic structure analysis, and detailed DFT calculations, the excellent high voltage stability of optimized samples mainly comes from the alleviating of phase conversion and oxygen redox. This work is expected to shed light on the potential value of homogenized regenerations, and offer effective strategies of upcycling about spent LCO.
Exploring Magnetocaloric Materials for Sustainable Refrigeration near Hydrogen Gas Liquefaction Temperature
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Muhammad Raeesh , Kim Sunghyun , Yi Jungwon , Son Kwanghyo , Oh Hyunchul
Published: May 2024

Magnetocaloric materials have the ability to undergo temperature changes when subjected to varying magnetic fields. These materials are of interest due to their potential for innovative cooling applications. This review article summarizes materials that exhibit magnetic ordering within the temperature range required for gas liquefaction and explores their potential applications through the magnetocaloric effect (MCE). The gas liquefaction temperature range is typically assumed to be 20–77 K, however, this study specifically summarizes materials that have a transition temperature near to the hydrogen liquefaction temperature (≈20K). This review article aims to showcase ongoing research on magnetic materials for hydrogen liquefaction. Driven by the depletion of natural resources and environmental concerns, the search for environmentally sustainable fuels has intensified, making hydrogen a promising alternative. However, the liquefaction of hydrogen is highly energy‐intensive. The investigation focuses on identifying and understanding these materials and assessing their suitability for environmentally friendly and sustainable cooling technologies. By harnessing the magnetocaloric effect, these materials exhibit temperature changes in response to an applied magnetic field, offering advantages over traditional cooling methods that are 20–50% more efficient. The review aims to furnish researchers with essential information that can help modify magnetocaloric effect (MCE) materials, enabling them to achieve the desired magnetic ordering temperature conducive to the liquefaction of hydrogen.
Integrating Rooftop Agriculture and Atmospheric Water Harvesting for Water‐Food Production Based on Hygroscopic Manganese Complex
Authors: Shan He , Poredoš Primož , Qu Hao , Yang Xinge , Zhou Mengjuan , Bai Lulu , Shi Jiadong , Chen Wenshuai , Wang Ruzhu , Tan Swee Ching
Published: May 2024

The integration of atmospheric water harvesting and rooftop agriculture presents a promising solution for decentralized water and food supply in urban areas. However, the degradation of adsorption material kinetics after scaling up, coupled with fluctuations in solar energy, results in reduced and unstable water production. Herein, a composite adsorbent composed of manganese (II)‐ethanolamine complexes incorporated into a hierarchical and interconnect polypyrrole‐doped matrix is developed. This structure significantly reduces vapor diffusion resistance—a crucial factor impeding rapid scale‐up kinetics, enabling water uptake of 2.54 g g−1 at 90% RH, with 62% of water released within 30 min, facilitating daily multiple capture‐release cycles. Incorporating a hybrid desorption mode that combines PV electrical and solar heating further achieves stable and high‐yield water production. Ultimately, through simulation and feasibility verification, the atmospheric water‐irrigated rooftop farm realizes water and food production yield of 879.9 gwater m−2sorbent day−1 and 1.28 kgfood m−2device within 14 days without human intervention and independent of external water inputs. These findings highlight the potential of integrating AWH technology with rooftop farming as a pathway to sustainable urban development through decentralized water and food co‐production.
Integration Of Solution‐Processed BaTiO3 Thin Films with High Pockels Coefficient on Photonic Platforms
Authors: Picavet Ewout , Lievens Enes , De Geest Kobe , Rijckaert Hannes , Fernandez Edgar Gutierrez , Bikondoa Oier , Solano Eduardo , Paturi Petriina , Singh Nishant , Pannier Tinus , Liu Jiayi , Yin Xin , Van Thourhout Dries , Beeckman Jeroen , De Buysser Klaartje
Published: May 2024

The heterogeneous integration of ferroelectric BaTiO3 thin films on silicon (Si) and silicon nitride (SiN)‐based platforms for photonic integrated circuits (PICs) plays a crucial role in the development of future nanophotonic thin film modulators. Since the electro‐optic (EO) properties of ferroelectric thin films strongly depend on their crystal phase and texture, the integration of BaTiO3 thin films on these platforms is far from trivial. So far, a conventional integration route using a SrTiO3 template film in combination with high vacuum deposition methods has been developed, but it has a low throughput, is expensive and requires monocrystalline substrates. To close this gap, a cost‐efficient, high‐throughput and scalable method for integrating highly textured BaTiO3 films is needed. Therefore, an alternative method for the integration of highly textured BaTiO3 films using a La2O2CO3 template film in combination with a chemical solution deposition (CSD) process is presented. In this work, the structural and EO properties of the solution‐processed BaTiO3 film are characterized and its integration into an optical ring resonator is evaluated. The BaTiO3 film exhibits a fiber texture, has a large Pockels coefficient (reff) of 139 pm V−1, and integration into a ring resonator‐based modulator shows a VπL of 1.881 V cm and a bandwidth of > 40 GHz. This enables low‐cost, high‐throughput, and flexible integration of BaTiO3 films on PIC platforms and the potential large‐scale fabrication of nanophotonic BaTiO3 thin‐film modulators.
Spin‐Orbit Torque Switching of Magnetization in Ultra‐Thick Ferromagnetic Layers
Authors: Chen Hongliang , Zhou Guowei , Ji Huihui , Qin Qing , Shi Shu , Shen Qia , Yao Pengyu , Cao Yu , Chen Jiaxin , Liu Yanghui , Wang Han , Lin Weinan , Yang Yumeng , Jia Jinfeng , Xu Xiaohong , Chen Jingsheng , Liu Liang
Published: May 2024

Current‐induced magnetization switching via spin‐orbit torque (SOT) holds great potential for applications in high‐speed and energy‐efficient magnetic memory and logic devices. In the extensively studied heavy metal/ferromagnet (HM/FM) SOT heterostructures, the thickness of the FM layer is typically restricted to a few nanometers or less due to the rapid spin dephasing, making it challenging to implement thermally stable memory cells with high density. In this study, it is demonstrated that this thickness constraint can be significantly alleviated by utilizing an oxide ferromagnet La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 (LSMO). Through electrical transport and magnetic optical measurements, it is found that the SOT can switch the magnetization in Pt/LSMO heterostructures even at an LSMO thickness of 35 nm, which is one order of magnitude larger than that for metallic FMs, such as CoFeB. Furthermore, based on the FM thickness dependence of the switching current and the domain switching type revealed by magnetic optical Kerr effect imaging (MOKE), a possible picture is proposed to describe the SOT switching in Pt/LSMO, which highlights the critical role of the domain wall propagation in the vertical direction. The work provides valuable insights into the behavior of SOT switching in ultra‐thick FM films, offering new possibilities for their practical applications.
Biomimetic Remineralization of Dental Hard Tissues via Amyloid‐Like Protein Matrix Composite with Amorphous Calcium Phosphate
Authors: Pang Yanyun , Fu Chengyu , Zhang Daixing , Li Min , Zhou Xinye , Gao Yingtao , Lin Kaiye , Hu Bowen , Zhang Kai , Cai Qing , Yang Peng , Liu Yongchun , Zhang Xu
Published: May 2024

Numerous remineralizing coatings aim to prevent or treat early enamel lesions and occlude exposed dentinal tubules (DTs). Nevertheless, the pace of remineralization is inadequate, and the mechanical robustness of the newly established mineral layer fails to match the inherent strength. In this study, a biomimetic mineralization strategy aimed at replicating key events in biological mineralization, specifically focusing on the organic–inorganic composite matrix, is proposed. The material utilizes Tris(2‐carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP), which serves a dual role: stabilized amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) (ACP@TCEP) nanoparticles as its inorganic component, and catalyzing the cleavage of intramolecular disulfide bonds in poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) grafted lysozyme (lyso‐PEG) to facilitate the formation of an amyloid‐like protein matrix composite with ACP (ACP@lyso‐PEG nanocomplexes). ACP@lyso‐PEG nanocomplexes can rapidly and efficiently form an enamel‐like remineralization layer on the surface of damaged dental hard tissue, reaching ≈4.205 µm thickness after 3 days of acid‐etched enamel. Furthermore, achieving a depth of DTs occlusion exceeding 60 µm after 5 days, using a simple immersion process. The resulting mineralized layer exhibits mechanical strength comparable to natural teeth. This study introduces a conceptual biomimetic mineralization strategy for effective enamel repair or DTs occlusion in clinical practices, and offers potential insights into the mechanisms of biomineral formation.
Underwater Scattering Exceptional Point by Metasurface with Fluid‐Solid Interaction
Authors: Zhou Hong‐Tao , Jiang Mu , Zhu Jia‐Hui , Li Yong , Li Qiaojiao , Wang Yan‐Feng , Qiu Cheng‐Wei , Wang Yue‐Sheng
Published: May 2024

Exceptional point (EP), a special degeneracy in non‐Hermitian systems, has exhibited various distinctive wave characteristics. However, the conventional synthesis of scattering EPs in acoustics is confined to rather limited methods for breaking Hermiticity, typically requiring intrinsic losses or open interfaces. Here, the concept of synthesizing scattering EPs is theoretically and experimentally demonstrated by leveraging a metasurface with fluid‐solid interaction (FSI) in water. The incorporation of FSI offers a novel mechanism to customize natural radiation losses. Simulations and experiments consistently confirm that synthesized EPs result in extremely asymmetric scattering patterns, even in the case of spatially impenetrable metasurfaces. This enhanced spatial symmetry breaking benefits from the FSI on the interface and the nonlocal interaction between unit cells. The proposed non‐Hermitian framework, involving the interplay of sound in fluids and solids, is expected to open up new possibilities for exploring unique non‐Hermitian physics and underwater acoustic applications.
Overcoming Phase Segregation in Wide‐Bandgap Perovskites: from Progress to Perspective
Authors: Fang Zhimin , Nie Ting , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Ding Jianning
Published: May 2024

Wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are recognized as promising candidates for diversified photovoltaics (PVs), such as tandem devices, indoor PVs, and semitransparent building‐integrated PVs. However, these WBG perovskites made from a mixed‐halides strategy suffer from severe phase segregation under continuous illumination, leading to exacerbated non‐radiative recombination, and consequently decreased open‐circuit voltage and efficiency. In this review, the generation and reversal processes of phase segregation in WBG perovskites are meticulously introduced. Additionally, the major characterization techniques for phase segregation are presented. A detailed summary of recent progress in enhancing photostability of WBG PSCs through various strategies is provided. These strategies primarily concentrate on composition regulation, crystallization modulation, inhibition of ion migration, and strain regulation. Finally, perspectives and potential directions are carefully discussed to promote the further development of high‐efficiency and photostable WBG PSCs.
Constructing Multi‐Functional Polymeric‐Termination Surface Enables High‐Performance Flexible Perovskite LEDs
Authors: Liu Chunyu , Zhang Dezhong , Sun Jiayun , Li Dongyu , Xiong Qi , Lyu Benzheng , Guo Wenbin , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: May 2024

Flexible perovskite light‐emitting diodes (f‐PeLEDs) have attracted increasing interest to realize true‐color, low‐cost, and light‐weight wearable optoelectronic and flexible display applications. However, their external quantum efficiency (EQE) and mechanical stability lag far behind because of the inherent surface and brittle issues of polycrystalline perovskite films. In this work, a multi‐functional polymeric‐termination surface of perovskite film is constructed for achieving efficient and mechanically stable f‐PeLEDs. It takes the roles to not only reduce defects through equipping coordination groups to improve emission properties, but also optimize film morphology and eliminate pinholes to solve the long‐standing issue of leakage current. Meanwhile, the polymeric‐termination surface with anchoring points and polymeric soft chains on perovskites demonstrates synergetic effects beyond the corresponding functional group‐only or polymer‐only strategies in reducing the Young's modulus and improving the mechanical flexibility. Ultimately, the record EQE of 22.1% and significantly enhanced mechanical stability of maintaining 82% of the initial performance after 2000 bending cycles with radius of 5 mm are achieved in pure‐green f‐PeLEDs. The work paves the way for the development of high‐performance flexible optoelectronic devices.
Resolving the Amino Acid Sequence of Aβ1‐42 at the Single‐Residue Level Using Subnanopores in Ultrathin Films
Authors: Chen Le , Meng Bin , Xie Yong , Yao Ziyang , Chen Haobin , Dong Zhuxin
Published: May 2024

Proteoforms are proteins derived from highly related genes or post translational modifications (PTMs) of the same protein. They share extremely similar primary structures but have varying functions. Unfortunately, protein de novo sequencing including specific PTM/mutation detection is still challenging. Herein, a nanopore‐based technique is reported to resolve the amino acid order of amyloid‐β (Aβ1‐42) with site specificity. Subnanopores are sputtered in 5 nm‐thick inorganic membranes with a sensing depth of 0.66 nm inferred by finite element analysis. Denatured molecules at 0.45 ng mL−1 translocate through subnanopores while the current traces are sampled at 500 kHz with rms noise <15 pA. Hundreds of blockades are clustered using machine learning, and multiple blockades are averaged to establish current consensus. Consensus traces strongly correlate with a linear model of amino acid volume of Aβ1‐42 at single residue resolution, with Pearson Correlation Coefficients (PCCs) of 0.81 ± 0.03 and 0.92 ± 0.03 before and after dynamic time warping (DTW). A scrambled version of Aβ1‐42 is tested for validation purposes. Deep learning classification reveals that different polypeptides generate distinct translocation fluctuating patterns, but variations become imperceptible for the same species measured across nanopores (Area Under the Curve, AUC 0.93 ± 0.05 vs 0.64 ± 0.12). Lastly, important PTMs and mutations are site‐specifically located along the primary structure, implying new potential clinical applications.
Microenvironment Reconstitution‐Induced Collaborative Oxyanions‐Vacancies Engineering for Enhanced High‐Mass‐Loading Energy Storage
Authors: Sun Mingming , Guo Wei , Wang Jinxin , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: May 2024

Performance breakthrough of energy‐storage electrodes under commercial‐level mass loading (≥10 mg cm−2) are highly pursued but restricted by sluggish mass/charge transfer rates and kinetically unfavorable reaction sites. In response, through electrochemical microenvironment reconstitution, these limitations are broken by engineering synergy between vacancies and oxyanions in the active matrix (Rec‐NiCoExch), which showcases a record‐level areal capacitance of 10.9 C cm−2 with a high mass loading of 20 mg cm−2 and a retention of 72% at 100‐fold current density. Such a design further endows the hybrid supercapacitor with an areal capacity of 20.9 C cm−2 and an energy density of 4.6 mWh cm−2, outperforming most of the benchmark results. Theoretical calculation reveals that in situ evolved oxyanions not only act as the effective adsorption sites but also secure the oxygen vacancies, enabling the potential synergy toward improved electronic conductivity and enhanced reactivity of Ni sites. As a proof‐of‐concept, the as‐assembled quasi‐solid‐state micro‐supercapacitor deliveries an ultrahigh energy density of 111.5 µWh cm−2 and presents great potential in intermittent energy storage by the solar panel‐supercapacitor‐LED system. This work offers insights for constructing commercial‐level energy‐storage electrodes by mastering surface/interface engineering for practical applications.
Artificial Spores as Multi‐Functional Biocatalysts to Perform Biosynthetic Cascades
Authors: Iturralde Maialen , Ripoll Magdalena , Silvio Desiré di , Gallego Marta , Grajales‐Hernández Daniel A. , López Xabier , Betancor Lorena , López‐Gallego Fernando
Published: May 2024

Cells exhibit diverse structural formations such as biofilms and spores, enabling them to acquire novel functionalities. Many of these structures display biomacromolecules, including enzymes, tethered to cell walls to support various extracellular processes. Alternatively, encapsulating single cells with polymer coatings offers a strategy that circumvents the need for genetic engineering while imparting artificial functionalities to cells. Here, a universal method is presented for encapsulating single gram‐negative microbes with polymeric coatings based on the ancestral gall ink formed by tannic acid‐iron complexes. As a result, synthetic spores are achieved that selectively bind His‐tagged enzymes through the formation of unprecedented galloyl/imidazole‐Fe2+ complexes via ligand substitution demonstrated by density functional theory. These synthetic spores with a thickness of 41.5 ± 4.2 nm and a stiffness of 6.0 ± 3.5 GPa serve as biocatalytic materials for the one‐pot oxidative amination of diols into amino alcohols, facilitated by the cooperative catalysis between intracellular endogenous or recombinant oxidoreductases, and an extracellular transaminase from Pseudomonas fluorescens displayed at the spore surface. These spores maintain their performance in three consecutive batch cycles. Integrating isolated enzymes onto the surface of engineered microbes coated with polymers offers novel opportunities for synthetic biology, advancing the efficiency of biosynthetic cascades in solid‐state environments.
Nanozyme‐Incorporated Microneedles for the Treatment of Chronic Wounds
Authors: Hu Zhiyuan , Shan Jie , Cui Yuyu , Cheng Liang , Chen Xu‐Lin , Wang Xianwen
Published: May 2024

Acute wounds are converted to chronic wounds due to advanced age and diabetic complications. Nanozymes catalyze ROS production to kill bacteria without causing drug resistance, while microneedles (MNs) can break through the skin barrier to deliver drugs effectively. Nanozymes can be intergrateded into MNs delivery systems to improve painless drug delivery. It can also reduce the effective dose of drug sterilization while increasing delivery efficiency and effectively killing wounded bacteria while preventing drug resistance. This paper describes various types of metal nanozymes from previous studies and compares their mutual enhancement with nanozymes. The pooled results show that the MNs, through material innovation, are able to both penetrate the scab and deliver nanozymes and exert additional anti‐inflammatory and bactericidal effects. The catalytic effect of some of the nanozymes can also accelerate the lysis of the MNs or create a cascade reaction against inflammation and infection. However, the issue of increased toxicity associated with skin penetration and clinical translation remains a challenge. This study reviews the latest published results and corresponding challenges associated with the use of MNs combined with nanozymes for the treatment of wounds, providing further information for future research.
Developing MiR‐133a Zipper Nanoparticles for Targeted Enhancement of Thermogenic Adipocyte Generation
Authors: Yi Sang Ah , Pongkulapa Thanapat , Nevins Sarah , Goldston Li Ling , Chen Meizi , Lee Ki‐Bum
Published: May 2024

Existing delivery methods for RNAi therapeutics encounter challenges, including stability, specificity, and off‐target effects, which restrict their clinical effectiveness. In this study, a novel miR‐133a zipper nanoparticle (NP) system that integrates miRNA zipper technology with rolling circle transcription (RCT) to achieve targeted delivery and specific regulation of miR‐133a in adipocytes, is presented. This innovative approach can greatly enhance the delivery and release of miR‐133a zippers, increasing the expression of thermogenic genes and mitochondrial biogenesis. he miR‐133a zipper NP is utilized for the delivery of miRNA zipper‐blocking miR‐133a, an endogenous inhibitor of Prdm16 expression, to enhance the thermogenic activity of adipocytes by modulating their transcriptional program. Inhibition of miR‐133a through the miR‐133a zipper NP leads to more significant upregulation of thermogenic gene expression (Prdm16 and Ucp1) than with the free miR‐133a zipper strand. Furthermore, miR‐133a zipper NPs increase the number of mitochondria and induce heat production, reducing the size of 3D adipose spheroids. In short, this study emphasizes the role of RNA NPs in improving RNAi stability and specificity and paves the way for broader applications in gene therapy. Moreover, this research represents a significant advancement in RNAi‐based treatments, pointing toward a promising direction for future therapeutic strategies.
Targeted Macrophage Re‐Programming: Synergistic Therapy With Methotrexate and RELA siRNA Folate‐Liposome in RAW264.7 Cells and Arthritic Rats
Authors: Nasra Simran , Bhatia Dhiraj , Kumar Ashutosh
Published: May 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation and destruction. Current treatments, such as Methotrexate (MTX), though effective, often face limitations such as high plasma Cmax and lack of sustained release. This study explores a synergistic approach to RA therapy using folate‐liposomal co‐delivery of MTX and RELA siRNA (short interfering RNA), targeting RAW264.7 macrophage repolarization via nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) pathway inhibition. Extensive in vitro characterizations demonstrate the stability and biocompatibility of this therapy via folate‐liposomes. In the collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) rat model, treatment leads to reduced synovial inflammation and improved mobility. The combined MTX and RELA siRNA approach indirectly inhibits inflammatory cytokines, rheumatoid factor (RF), and C‐reactive protein (CRP). Targeted macrophage delivery shows marked therapeutic effects in RAW264.7 murine macrophages, potentially modulating M1 to M2 polarization. This research presents a promising avenue for innovative RA therapies by inhibiting the inflammatory cascade and preventing joint damage.
Targeted Clearance of Senescent Cells Via Engineered Extracellular Vesicles Reprograms Tumor Immunosuppressive Microenvironment
Authors: Ji Panpan , Wang Chen , Liu Yang , Guo Xin , Liang Yuan , Wei Jiangpeng , Liu Zhaoyou , Gong Li , Yang Guodong , Ji Gang
Published: May 2024

Unravelling the mechanisms for the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and developing corresponding therapeutic strategies are of great importance to improve the cancer immunotherapy. This study has revealed that there are abundant senescent cells accumulated in the colon cancer tissue, which contributes greatly to the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Oral delivery of Dasatinib and Quercetin (D+Q) eliminates the senescent cells with compromised efficiency due to the poor tumor penetration and short half‐life. To improve the efficacy of senescent cell clearance, this work has developed an extracellular vesicle (EV) based senolytic strategy. The engineered senolytic EVs have anti‐GPNMB (a senescent cell surface marker) displayed on the surface and D+Q loaded on the membrane. In a syngeneic mouse model, senolytic EVs efficiently and selectively eradicate the senescent cells and in turn unleashes the antitumor immunity. With the antitumor immunity boosted, cancer growth is inhibited and the survival is prolonged. In summary, this work has illuminated that senescent cells contribute to the immunosuppressive microenvironment in colon cancer and proposes a novel strategy to conquer the problem by EV‐based senolytics.
Hydrogel Coatings of Implants for Pathological Bone Repair
Authors: Li Mengqing , Fan Youzhun , Ran Maofei , Chen Haoyan , Han Jien , Zhai Jinxia , Wang Zhengao , Ning Chengyun , Shi Zhifeng , Yu Peng
Published: May 2024

Hydrogels are well‐suited for biomedical applications due to their numerous advantages, such as excellent bioactivity, versatile physical and chemical properties, and effective drug delivery capabilities. Recently, hydrogel coatings have developed to functionalize bone implants which are biologically inert and cannot withstand the complex bone tissue repair microenvironment. These coatings have shown promise in addressing unique and pressing medical needs. This review begins with the major functionalized performance and interfacial bonding strategy of hydrogel coatings, with a focus on the novel external field response properties of the hydrogel. Recent advances in the fabrication strategies of hydrogel coatings and their use in the treatment of pathologic bone regeneration are highlighted. Finally, challenges and emerging trends in the evolution and application of physiological environment‐responsive and external electric field‐responsive hydrogel coatings for bone implants are discussed.
Enhanced Oxygen Evolution and Zinc‐Air Battery Performance via Electronic Spin Modulation in Heterostructured Catalysts
Authors: Yang Linlin , He Ren , Botifoll Marc , Zhang Yongcai , Ding Yang , Di Chong , He Chuansheng , Xu Ying , Balcells Lluís , Arbiol Jordi , Zhou Yingtang , Cabot Andreu
Published: May 2024

Beyond optimizing electronic energy levels, the modulation of the electronic spin configuration is an effective strategy, often overlooked, to boost activity and selectivity in a range of catalytic reactions, including the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). This electronic spin modulation is frequently accomplished using external magnetic fields, which makes it impractical for real applications. Herein, spin modulation is achieved by engineering Ni/MnFe2O4 heterojunctions, whose surface is reconstructed into NiOOH/MnFeOOH during the OER. NiOOH/MnFeOOH shows a high spin state of Ni, which regulates the OH− and O2 adsorption energy and enables spin alignment of oxygen intermediates. As a result, NiOOH/MnFeOOH electrocatalysts provide excellent OER performance with an overpotential of 261 mV at 10 mA cm−2. Besides, rechargeable zinc‐air batteries based on Ni/MnFe2O4 show a high open circuit potential of 1.56 V and excellent stability for more than 1000 cycles. This outstanding performance is rationalized using density functional theory calculations, which show that the optimal spin state of both Ni active sites and oxygen intermediates facilitates spin‐selected charge transport, optimizes the reaction kinetics, and decreases the energy barrier to the evolution of oxygen. This study provides valuable insight into spin polarization modulation by heterojunctions enabling the design of next‐generation OER catalysts with boosted performance.
Anisotropic 2D van der Waals Magnets Hosting 1D Spin Chains
Authors: Park Eugene , Philbin John P. , Chi Hang , Sanchez Joshua J. , Occhialini Connor , Varnavides Georgios , Curtis Jonathan B. , Song Zhigang , Klein Julian , Thomsen Joachim D. , Han Myung‐Geun , Foucher Alexandre C. , Mosina Kseniia , Kumawat Deepika , Gonzalez‐Yepez N. , Zhu Yimei , Sofer Zdeněk , Comin Riccardo , Moodera Jagadeesh S. , Narang Prineha , Ross Frances M.
Published: May 2024

The exploration of 1D magnetism, frequently portrayed as spin chains, constitutes an actively pursued research field that illuminates fundamental principles in many‐body problems and applications in magnonics and spintronics. The inherent reduction in dimensionality often leads to robust spin fluctuations, impacting magnetic ordering and resulting in novel magnetic phenomena. Here, structural, magnetic, and optical properties of highly anisotropic 2D van der Waals antiferromagnets that uniquely host spin chains are explored. First‐principle calculations reveal that the weakest interaction is interchain, leading to essentially 1D magnetic behavior in each layer. With the additional degree of freedom arising from its anisotropic structure, the structure is engineered by alloying, varying the 1D spin chain lengths using electron beam irradiation, or twisting for localized patterning, and spin textures are calculated, predicting robust stability of the antiferromagnetic ordering. Comparing with other spin chain magnets, these materials are anticipated to bring fresh perspectives on harvesting low‐dimensional magnetism.
Toward Circular Energy: Exploring Direct Regeneration for Lithium‐Ion Battery Sustainability
Authors: Wu Xiaoxue , Liu Yuhang , Wang Junxiong , Tan Yihong , Liang Zheng , Zhou Guangmin
Published: May 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) are rapidly developing into attractive energy storage technologies. As LIBs gradually enter retirement, their sustainability is starting to come into focus. The utilization of recycled spent LIBs as raw materials for battery manufacturing is imperative for resource and environmental sustainability. The sustainability of spent LIBs depends on the recycling process, whereby the cycling of battery materials must be maximized while minimizing waste emissions and energy consumption. Although LIB recycling technologies (hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy) have been commercialized on a large scale, they have unavoidable limitations. They are incompatible with circular economy principles because they require toxic chemicals, emit hazardous substances, and consume large amounts of energy. The direct regeneration of degraded electrode materials from spent LIBs is a viable alternative to traditional recycling technologies and is a nondestructive repair technology. Furthermore, direct regeneration offers advantages such as maximization of the value of recycled electrode materials, use of sustainable, nontoxic reagents, high potential profitability, and significant application potential. Therefore, this review aims to investigate the state‐of‐the‐art direct LIB regeneration technologies that can be extended to large‐scale applications.
Experimental Evidence of the Molecular and Macroscopic Origins of Circular Dichroism in Chiral Metal‐Halide Networks
Authors: Abhervé Alexandre
Published: May 2024

Clockwise or counter‐clockwise spin coating? In the current hot research topic of chiral metal‐halide semiconductors, several investigations have been undertaken in order to reveal their natural optical activity and have reported dissymmetry factors (gabs) for thin films of many hybrid compounds, usually without considering the macroscopic anisotropies inherent to solid‐state samples. Yet, CD in the solid state can be strongly modulated by the co‐existence of linear dichroism (LD) and linear birefringence (LB). Theoretical studies recently revealed the importance of such macroscopic interferences in the CD response of solid‐state samples, often referred as symmetric (sLDLB) and antisymmetric (aLDLB) effects. Based on the newly synthesized one‐dimensional lead‐halide networks of formula (S/R‐HP1A)PbBr3 and (S/R‐HP1A)PbI3, an experimental method to accurately discriminate between CD, sLDLB and aLDLB in chiral metal‐halide networks is here presented. The main experimental conditions influencing sLDLB and aLDLB amplitude are also highlighted, such as the concentration of the precursor solution and the spin‐coating rotation direction, finally providing a complete experimental guide for the forthcoming chiroptical investigations of such important family of chiral hybrid materials.
A Real‐Time Display Screen Based on Organohydrogel with Tunable Fluorescence
Authors: Jia Hong , Chen Zihao , Chen Yiping , Wang Xilin , Wei Jie
Published: May 2024

In this study, a multi‐monomer organohydrogel network is fabricated based on radical polymerization. Acrylic acid (AA) and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) are used as hydrophilic monomers, and methoxyethyl acrylate (MEA) serves as a hydrophobic monomer. To endow the organohydrogel with a photo‐responsive property, a fluorescent monomer, 1′‐acryloyl chloride‐3′,3′‐dimethyl‐6‐nitrospiropyran (SPMA) is added. Under ultraviolet (UV) and visible light irradiation, SPMA undergoes ring‐opening and ring‐closing isomerization reactions, respectively. This leads to enhanced and reduced fluorescence. This fluorescence tunability allows for the local regulation of fluorescence in the organohydrogel using a photomask. By employing UV and visible light, complex information can be repeatedly written and erased on the organohydrogel. Additionally, based on the interactions between dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and water within the system, the organohydrogel exhibits excellent anti‐freezing and water‐holding properties, allowing its use in low‐temperature environments and extended preservation time. The organohydrogel has precise information writing capabilities and is more difficult to falsify as an information encryption platform. This study provides guidance for future researchers to develop information writing capabilities with higher precision and broader applications in various environments using smart materials.
Realization of Narrow‐Bandwidth Cu‐Ga‐S‐Based Quantum Dots with Controllable Luminescence
Authors: Niu Wentao , Xie Xiulin , Chen Zhong , Sun Ruixin , Li Yu , Wang Shuaibing , Zhang Yu , Yang Chunhe , Tang Aiwei
Published: May 2024

Recently, I‐III‐VI type quantum dots (QDs) have attracted considerable attention in display technology due to their large‐scale tunable emission and environmentally friendly characteristics. However, within this family, narrow‐bandwidth Cu‐based QDs have rarely been reported. Herein, the synthesis of narrow‐bandwidth blue‐emitting Cu‐Ga‐S (CGS)‐based QDs is reported by a hot‐injection method for the first time, boasting a narrow full width at half‐maximum (FWHM) of 29 nm, closely approaching that of traditional Cd‐based QDs. Through precisely controlling the temperature of nucleation stage, CGS‐based QDs showcase a representative blue emission at 475 nm, featuring the narrowest FWHM and a photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 32%. Besides, the femtosecond transient fluorescence (fs‐TA) characterization indicates that the narrow‐bandwidth luminescence is attributed to band‐to‐hole recombination rather than donor‐acceptor pair (DAP) recombination. The work opens a new avenue for narrow‐bandwidth I‐III‐VI QDs, offering increased potential for applications in blue‐light‐emitting devices.
Solution‐Processed Efficient Organic Upconversion Device for Direct NIR Imaging
Authors: Dong Shilong , Zhang Yi , Wang Zehong , Li Jin , Zhou Zichun , Zhu Lei , Zhong Hongliang , Liu Feng , Jiang Xuesong
Published: May 2024

Infrared upconversion devices (UCDs) enable NIR imaging without array and readout circuits, making them desirable for portable sensor, imaging and monitoring. However, the exorbitant cost and difficulties in fabrication associated with vacuum‐deposited materials, which are usually employed in high‐performance UCDs, restrict their application in flexible‐stretchable systems. Here, a solution‐processed upconversion device (s‐UCD), which is composed of detector and emitter, with high conversion efficiency and low turn‐on voltage achieved by device structure design and interlayer engineering is reported. The role of the electron blocking layer is investigated in s‐UCDs, and a peak luminance of 5,500 cd m−2 @7 V and a luminance on‐off ratio of 110000 @5.25 V are achieved. The s‐UCDs exhibit high resolution, microsecond response time and are compatible with flexible substrates. With the high‐performance large‐area s‐UCDs, direct non‐invasive transmission‐based bioimaging applications with high quality of bioimaging are further performed. It is believed that the s‐UCD imaging system offers potential applications for portable low‐cost non‐invasive tissue analysis, disease diagnosis, and virtual reality.
Synthesis of Fluorinated Spiroindolenines by Transition Metal‐Catalyzed Indole Dearomatizations
Authors: Buttard Floris , Daghmoum Meriem , Arribat Mathieu , Chen Mu‐Yi , Retailleau Pascal , Besset Tatiana , Guinchard Xavier
Published: May 2024

A strategy to access fluorinated spiroindolenines has been developed, involving a selective functionalization of indoles with fluorinated moieties and subsequent catalytic dearomatization. Trifluomethylthio (SCF3), diethyl phosphono(difluoromethyl)thio (SCF2P(O)(OEt)2) and (phenylsulfonyl)difluoromethyl (CF2SO2Ph) groups were embedded at the C2 position of indole derivatives substituted with alkynes, allenes, and allyl carbonate moieties at the C3 position. A gold‐catalyzed cycloisomerization gave access to five spiroindolenines, and an enantioselective palladium catalyzed cyclization provided 10 fluorinated spirocyclic products with up to 77% ee.
The Role of Tumor‐Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Drug Resistance in Urologic Cancers
Authors: Xiong Zhuang , Chen Tingting , Wu Shuang , Deng Min , Wu Qingjian , Huang Dandan , He Changying , Li Chong , Zheng Ji
Published: May 2024

In spite of the therapeutic progress achieved in the treatment of urologic tumors, the persistence and intricate nature of tumor resistance significantly impact patient prognoses. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), actively secreted by diverse cell types, assume a crucial role in facilitating intercellular communication. These EVs facilitate the transfer of functional molecules, encompassing RNA, proteins, and lipids, to recipient cells. While these molecules participate in normal physiological processes, they also play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Notably in the context of cancer, numerous investigations have substantiated the involvement of tumor‐derived EVs in the development of drug resistance. This review comprehensively explores the mechanisms underlying drug resistance in urologic cancers, elucidates the contributions of tumor‐derived EVs to drug resistance in urologic tumors, discusses advancements in targeting EVs to mitigate drug resistance in urologic tumors, and assesses the utility of EVs as biomarkers for drug resistance in urologic tumors.
Cytochalasin B‐Induced Membrane Vesicles of NK Cells for Efficient Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Lee Minseon , Kwon Soonjo
Published: May 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial mediators of cell‐to‐cell communication and contain biological components such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. EVs are studied for their crucial immunomodulatory roles, particularly in natural killer (NK) cells. NK vesicles, which share surface markers and biological components with the parental NK cells, are developed as anti‐cancer agents. However, their clinical application is hindered by their low productivity and an incomplete understanding of their functional mechanisms. In this study, EV‐mimicking vesicles are artificially induced from NK cells by cytochalasin B treatment. These cytochalasin B‐induced membrane vesicles (CIMVs) are 1.21‐fold more concentrated than isolated natural EVs from NK cells (NK‐EVs) and contain 1.66‐fold more proteins, including those with immunological activity against tumors. The induced ARF6‐positive microvesicles possess an immunological phenotype similar to that of the parental cells, while perforin, granzyme, and FasL proteins are more abundant compared to NK‐EVs. Administrating NK‐EVs and CIMVs to K562 and MCF‐7 tumor cells induces caspase‐dependent apoptosis, which leads to tumor cell cytotoxicity. These results significantly contribute to the understanding of the role of NK vesicles in cellular communication and immunity, and highlight the therapeutic potential of engineered NK‐EVs via their specific action on tumor cells.
Synthetic Biomimetic Liposomes Harness Efferocytosis Machinery for Highly Efficient Macrophages‐Targeted Drug Delivery to Alleviate Inflammation
Authors: Han Run , Ren Zhengyu , Wang Qi , Zha Haidong , Wang Erjin , Wu Mingyue , Zheng Ying , Lu Jia‐Hong
Published: May 2024

Macrophages play pivotal roles in the regulation of inflammatory responses and tissue repair, making them a prime target for inflammation alleviation. However, the accurate and efficient macrophages targeting is still a challenging task. Motivated by the efficient and specific removal of apoptotic cells by macrophages efferocytosis, a novel biomimetic liposomal system called Effero‐RLP (Efferocytosis‐mediated Red blood cell hybrid Liposomes) is developed which incorporates the membrane of apoptotic red blood cells (RBCs) with liposomes for the purpose of highly efficient macrophages targeting. Rosiglitazone (ROSI), a PPARγ agonist known to attenuate macrophage inflammatory responses, is encapsulated into Effero‐RLP as model drug to regulate macrophage functions in DSS‐induced colitis mouse model. Intriguingly, the Effero‐RLP exhibits selective and efficient uptake by macrophages, which is significantly inhibited by the efferocytosis blocker Annexin V. In animal models, the Effero‐RLP demonstrates rapid recognition by macrophages, leading to enhanced accumulation at inflammatory sites. Furthermore, ROSI‐loaded Effero‐RLP effectively alleviates inflammation and protects colon tissue from injury in the colitis mouse model, which is abolished by deletion of macrophages from mice model. In conclusion, the study highlights the potential of macrophage targeting using efferocytosis biomimetic liposomes. The development of Effero‐RLP presents novel and promising strategies for alleviating inflammation.
2D and 3D Self‐Assembly of Fluorine‐Free Pillar‐[5]‐Arenes and Perfluorinated Diacids at All‐Aqueous Interfaces
Authors: Honaker Lawrence W. , Gao Tu‐Nan , de Graaf Kelsey R. , Bogaardt Tessa V.M. , Vink Pim , Stürzer Tobias , Kociok‐Köhn Gabriele , Zuilhof Han , Miloserdov Fedor M. , Deshpande Siddharth
Published: May 2024

The interaction of perfluorinated molecules, also known as “forever chemicals” due to their pervasiveness, with their environment remains an important yet poorly understood topic. In this work, the self‐assembly of perfluorinated molecules with multivalent hosts, pillar‐[5]‐arenes, is investigated. It is found that perfluoroalkyl diacids and pillar‐[5]‐arenes rapidly and strongly complex with each other at aqueous interfaces, forming solid interfacially templated films. Their complexation is shown to be driven primarily by fluorophilic aggregation and assisted by electrostatic interactions, as supported by the crystal structure of the complexes, and leads to the formation of quasi‐2D phase‐separated films. This self‐assembly process can be further manipulated using aqueous two‐phase system microdroplets, enabling the controlled formation of 3D micro‐scaffolds.
Recent Progress of Electrolyte Materials for Solid‐State Lithium–Oxygen (Air) Batteries
Authors: Lu Tengda , Qian Yundong , Liu Ke , Wu Can , Li Xue , Xiao Jie , Zeng Xiaoyuan , Zhang Yingjie , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: May 2024

Solid‐state lithium–air batteries (SSLABs) have become the focus of next‐generation advanced batteries due to their safety and high energy densities. Current research on SSLABs is mainly centered on solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs). Although SSEs exhibit excellent properties, such as good stability, high safety, and great mechanical strength, they also display several distinct weaknesses of low ionic conductivities, poor stabilities in air, and high interfacial impedances, which will require sustained attentions for further investigations. This review first overviews the development history of SSEs achieved in terms of Li–air batteries. Subsequently, the fundamental properties, preparation methods, merits and drawbacks of different SSEs, along with their use in SSLABs, and the optimization strategy, especially for the inorganic solid electrolytes, polymer electrolytes, and hybrid electrolytes are comprehensively summarized. Finally, the research progresses made with SSEs are outlined, and critical insights and approaches for the remaining challenges of electrolytes and commercial application of SSLABs are proposed, which include advanced characterization, combining experiments and artificial intelligence such as theoretical calculations, and constructing selective permeability membranes. It is expected that this timely review will provide researchers with an integrated, systematic, and in‐depth understanding of SSEs and guidelines for future research, thus further promoting the commercial application of SSLABs.