bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real Reform in North Korea? The Aftermath of the July 2002 Economic Measures
Authors: Hale Christopher D.
Published: January 2006

This article analyzes the rationale for and repercussions of North Korea's July 2002 economic reforms. They are viewed in light of three related trends that have been detected in the reforms' aftermath: monetization, decentralization, and foreign capital acquisition.
The Politics behind Malaysia's Eleventh General Election
Authors: Liow Joseph
Published: January 2006

The results of Malaysia's eleventh general election held in March 2004 proved to be a resounding success for the Abdullah Badawi administration. Nevertheless, the politics surrounding the election witnessed the surfacing of several issues that would continue to pose a significant challenge to the new administration.
Long-term Trends in China-Taiwan Relations: Implications for U.S. Taiwan Policy
Authors: Saunders Phillip C.
Published: January 2006

Long-term political, economic, and military trends are reshaping the security environment in the Taiwan Strait in potentially destabilizing ways and undermining the “one China” framework. The United States has become more deeply involved in cross-strait relations to maintain stability and preserve the status quo, but this approach may not be sustainable.
Water Use, Ethnic Conflict, and Infrastructure in Nineteenth-Century Los Angeles
Authors: TORRES-ROUFF DAVID S.
Published: January 2006

Beginning in 1873, Los Angeles replaced zanjas, or open canals, with pipes for irrigation and sewage. From the city's founding, the zanjas had carried irrigation and waste waters between the Los Angeles River and the citizens. Whereas Mexican public philosophy supported maintaining the zanjas for open access and maximal use, European American newcomers championed enclosed pipes as a means to improve sanitation and enhance opportunities for revenue. Yet city governors did not distribute sewer services equally, denying sewerage to Mexican and Chinese Angelenos. In doing so, they established new relationships of institutional,infrastructural, and environmental inequality between brown residents and the city government.
The Illusion of Progress
Authors: FISHER CHRISTOPHER T.
Published: January 2006

This article examines the relationship between pacification and modernization theory during Lyndon B. Johnson's stewardship of the Vietnam War. It uses Johnson's South Vietnamese pacification program, Civil Operations and Revolutionary Development Support (CORDS), to reveal the hopes, intentions, and limitations of the administration's approach. This article contends that CORDS represented Johnson's attempt to define the Vietnam conflict as a progressive expression of the Cold War through modernization theory. It also argues that CORDS's inability to resolve the contradictions implicit in development and security exposed the limits of Johnson's vision for both Vietnam and the Cold War. Finally, the article illustrates how interadministrative debates regarding the intersection of pacification and modernization anticipated intellectual tensions that divided modernization theorists and dominated the field in the 1970s.
A Comparison of Intrazeolite and Solution Singlet Oxygen Ene Reactions of Allylic Alcohols
Authors: Clennan Edward L. , Zhang Dong , Singleton Jamie
Published: January 2006

The singlet oxygen ene reactions of four allylic alcohols and for comparison an allylic ether have been examined both in solution and in zeolite Y. Brønsted acid sites in the zeolite were shown to induce decomposition of several of the allylic alcohols. Treatment of the zeolites with pyridine removed these acid sites and allowed intrazeolite reactions of the allylic alcohols without interference from decomposition. Control reactions with an allylic alcohol that is inert to decomposition provided evidence that the presence of pyridine in the zeolite labyrinth does not influence the product composition.
A Side Order of Stem Cells: The SP Phenotype
Authors: Challen Grant A. , Little Melissa H.
Published: January 2006

A defining property of murine hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is low fluorescence after staining with Hoechst 33342 and Rhodamine 123. These dyes have proven to be remarkably powerful tools in the purification and characterization of HSCs when used alone or in combination with antibodies directed against stem cell epitopes. Hoechst low cells are described as side population (SP) cells by virtue of their typical profiles in Hoechst red versus Hoechst blue bivariate fluorescent-activated cell sorting dot plots. Recently, excitement has been generated by the findings that putative stem cells from solid tissues may also possess this SP phenotype. SP cells have now been isolated from a wide variety of mammalian tissues based on this same dye efflux phenomenon, and in many cases this cell population has been shown to contain apparently multipotent stem cells. What is yet to be clearly addressed is whether cell fusion accounts for this perceived SP multipotency. Indeed, if low fluorescence after Hoechst staining is a phenotype shared by hematopoietic and organ-specific stem cells, do all resident tissue SP cells have bone marrow origins or might the SP phenotype be a property common to all stem cells? Subject to further analysis, the SP phenotype may prove invaluable for the initial isolation of resident tissue stem cells in the absence of definitive cell-surface markers and may have broad-ranging applications in stem cell biology, from the purification of novel stem cell populations to the development of autologous stem cell therapies.
A rollable, organic electrophoretic QVGA display with field‐shielded pixel architecture
Authors: Gelinck G. H. , Huitema H. E. A. , Van Mil M. , Van Veenendaal E. , Van Lieshout P. J. G. , Touwslager F. , Patry S. F. , Sohn S. , Whitesides T. , McCreary M. D.
Published: January 2006

Abstract— A 100‐μm thin QVGA display was made by combining a 25‐μm thin organic transistor active‐matrix backplane with an electrophoretic display film. High contrast and low crosstalk was achieved by the addition of a field shield to the backplane. The display can be bent repeatedly to a radius of 2 mm without any performance loss. Extended mechanical tests at a radius of curvature of 7.5 mm show that the display can be rolled at least 30,000 times without noticeable degradation.
Circumcaval ureter associated with an intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in a dog
Authors: Doust Ross T. , Clarke Stephen P. , Hammond Gawain , Paterson Calum , King Alison
Published: January 2006

Case Description—A 4-month-old Bernese Mountain Dog was examined because of shifting hind limb lameness and lethargy of 2 weeks' duration.

Clinical Findings—The lameness was attributed to hypertrophic osteodystrophy. Portosystemic shunting was suspected on the basis of low serum albumin concentration and high serum bile acids concentration, and an intrahepatic shunt was identified ultrasono-graphically. Celiotomy was performed, and the shunt was partially closed with a cellophane band. During follow-up ultrasonography 7 months later, dilation of the left renal pelvis and proximal portion of the left ureter was identified. During exploratory celiotomy, the left ureter was found to pass dorsal to the caudal vena cava, and circumcaval ureter was diagnosed.

Treatment and Outcome—The ureter was transected, repositioned ventral to the vena cava, and anastomosed. Follow-up ultrasonographic examinations revealed gradual resolution of the hydronephrosis and hydroureter.

Clinical Relevance—Findings suggest that circumcaval ureter should be considered in the differential diagnosis for hydronephrosis and hydroureter in dogs. Partial obstruction of the middle segment of the ureter on ultrasonograms or contrast radiographs should increase the index of suspicion for this condition.
Palliative use of a stent for colonic obstruction caused by adenocarcinoma in two cats
Authors: Hume Daniel Z. , Solomon Jeffrey A. , Weisse Chick W.
Published: January 2006

Case Description—Two adult male castrated cats were evaluated because of a history of constipation, tenesmus, or intermittent vomiting.

Clinical Findings—Radiography and ultrasonography revealed luminal narrowing in the colon of 1 cat and a colonic mass in the other. A histopathologic diagnosis of colonic adenocarcinoma was made in both cats.

Treatment and Outcome—Under fluoroscopic guidance, a self-expanding metallic stent was advanced over a wire and across the area of colonic stenosis and deployed. One cat had progressive weight loss but maintained a normal appetite, energy, and a high quality of life. Fecal continence was maintained, and tenesmus was rarely observed. The cat was euthanized because of tumor metastasis 274 days after the colonic stent was placed. The other cat retained fecal continence, and the owners reported subjective improvement in the severity of tenesmus, compared with that prior to stent placement. The cat was euthanized 19 days after stent placement because of perceived decreased quality of life.

Clinical Relevance—The use of self-expanding metallic stents for alleviation of colonic obstruction secondary to adenocarcinoma in cats appears to be effective. This technique provides a simple, quick, nonsurgical option for palliation in cats with advanced metastatic or systemic disease in which surgical resection may not be possible or warranted.
Extensive small bowel resection in dogs and cats: 20 cases (1998–2004)
Authors: Gorman Stephanie C. , Freeman Lisa M. , Mitchell Susan L. , Chan Daniel L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine outcome in dogs and cats that underwent extensive (ie, > 50%) resection of the small intestine and identify factors associated with outcome.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—13 dogs and 7 cats.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed, and follow-up information was obtained.

Results—In all 7 cats and in 8 of the 13 dogs, extensive intestinal resection was performed because of a foreign body. Mean ± SD estimated percentage of intestine that was removed was 68 ± 14% (range, 50% to 90%). Two dogs were euthanized 3 days after surgery because of dehiscence of the surgical site and development of septic peritonitis; 1 dog died of acute respiratory distress syndrome 5 days after surgery. The remaining 10 dogs and 7 cats were discharged from the hospital, and follow-up information was available for 15 of the 17. Median survival time was 828 days, and 12 of the 15 animals for which long-term follow-up information was available had good outcomes. However, none of the factors examined, including percentage of intestine resected, were significantly associated with outcome.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Most dogs and cats that underwent extensive resection of the small intestine had a good outcome. The amount of intestine resected was not associated with outcome. These data may be useful in providing prognostic information in cases of extensive small intestinal resection.
Efficacy of vaccination and antimicrobial treatment to eliminate chronic intramammary Staphylococcus aureus infections in dairy cattle
Authors: Smith Geof W. , Lyman Roberta L. , Anderson Kevin L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether a combination of vaccination and extended intramammary antimicrobial treatment would eliminate chronic intramammary Staphylococcus aureus infections in lactating dairy cows.

Design—Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Animals—50 dairy cows with chronic mastitis caused by S aureus.

Procedure—Cows were identified and paired within herd on the basis of days in milk, lactation number, milk production, and numbers of quarters infected. Treated cows (n = 20) received 3 doses of a polyvalent S aureus bacterin on days 1, 15, and 21 of the study along with intramammary administration of pirlimycin in all 4 quarters once daily for 5 treatments (days 16 to 20). Control cows (n = 23) received no treatment. Follow-up samples for bacteriologic culture were collected for at least 3 months after treatment to determine treatment success rates.

Results—Significantly more S aureus infections were eliminated from treated cows (8/20 [40%]), compared with control cows (2/23 [9%]). The proportion of infected quarters that yielded negative results throughout the follow-up period was also significantly higher in treated cows (13/28 [46%]) than in control cows (2/41 [5%]).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate that a combination of vaccination and antimicrobial treatment can be successful in eliminating some cases of chronic intramammary S aureus infections in dairy cattle. However, it is important to consider extended treatment protocols carefully because many cows are likely to remain infected with S aureus despite treatment and vaccination.
The bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas plecoglossicida, its epidemiology, virulence factors, vaccine development, and host–pathogen interactions
Authors: Mao Zhijuan , Li Shanshan , Li Yiying , Jia Tingting
Published: February 2024

Objective

Pseudomoans plecoglossicida has been identified as a fish pathogen since 2000 and has caused serious infections in cultured Large Yellow Croakers Larimiththys crocea in coastal eastern China during recent years.

Methods

Published literatures of this pathogen have been reviewed.

Result

Several strains with high genomic similarity have been isolated and identified; the bacteria induce natural infection at lower water temperatures (12.0–25.5°C) and induce numerous granulomas and nodules in the visceral organs of croakers. Researchers have investigated the epidemiology of P. plecoglossicida infection, identified major virulence factors, searched for pathogenic genes, analyzed host-pathogen interactions, and endeavored to develop efficient vaccines.

Conclusion

This paper provides an overview of these research advances to elucidate the virulence mechanisms of the pathogen and to promote vaccine development against infection.
A Thermosensitive Hydrogel with Efficient NIR Photothermal Conversion as Injectable Wound Dressing for Accelerating Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Wu Jing , Wang Wentao , Shen Jian , Zhou Ninglin , Li Yuanyuan , Tang Ben Zhong , Zhang Ming
Published: February 2024

Bacterial infection at wound sites can easily induce robust inflammation. M1 macrophages at wound sites can cause cascade inflammatory reactions to mediate a vicious inflammation cycle. Meanwhile, the hypoxia situation further aggravates the destruction and contraction of blood vessels in the wound microenvironment, therefore, hindering the infected wound healing process. Here, a thermosensitive hydrogel is reported to solve the above challenges by eliminating bacteria based on the photothermal effect, regulating the inflammatory immune microenvironment, and providing oxygen (O2). In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that the hydrogel has great O2‐producing properties. Based on the excellent photothermal properties of AIEgens, the hydrogel has a good bactericidal effect against S. aureus (100%) and E. coli (98.85%). The RNA‐sequencing revealed that Cur@AIE@MnO2/gel can interfere with the metabolic process and genetic material repair process to impact bacteria proliferation and biofilm dispersal, thus achieving excellent anti‐bacterial efficacy. Moreover, Cur@AIE@MnO2/gel can also up‐regulate anti‐inflammatory genes, down‐regulate pro‐inflammatory genes in macrophages, and facilitate the promotion of macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 to relieve inflammation. The therapeutic experiments show that this hydrogel accelerated the wound‐healing process. Therefore, this work may open new avenues for the development of novel dressings for bacterial‐infected wounds.
Bioinspired Integrated Multidimensional Sensor for Adaptive Grasping by Robotic Hands and Physical Movement Guidance
Authors: Lei Peng , Bao Yan , Gao Lu , Zhang Wenbo , Zhu Xiaofeng , Liu Chao , Ma Jianzhong
Published: February 2024

The construction of piezoresistive sensors capable of distinguishing multiple mechanical stimuli is important for sensing higher level applications. However, the mutual interference between sensing signals is a technical bottleneck for sensors to recognize multiple mechanical stimuli. Inspired by the structure of human skin and muscle, a multidimensional sensor is designed by integrating three sub‐sensors. Each sub‐sensor is only sensitive to stimulus components in one of the three orthogonal axes, whereas it remains insensitive to others because of its anisotropic sensing properties. Specifically, an omnidirectional gradient wrinkled polyurethane film with MXene‐embedded ZnO nanowire arrays serves as a strain‐insensitive pressure sub‐sensor, while two aligned segmental polyimide/polyurethane films through orthogonal stacking act as two pressure‐insensitive anisotropic strain sub‐sensors. A unique characteristic of multidimensional sensor is its ability to distinguish and measure the type, magnitude, and direction of strain, pressure, and shear. Moreover, multidimensional sensor exhibits maximal gauge factor of 863.7 for strain and highest sensitivity of 187.71 kPa−1 for pressure. Importantly, multidimensional sensor exhibits an unprecedented ability to quantitatively evaluate shear using a library of electrical responses. The adaptive grasping of robotic hands and free‐throw training of players have been demonstrated to initiate the development of robotic object manipulation and physical movement guidance.
Spider Silk/Hemin Biobased Electrets for Organic Phototransistor Memory: A Comprehensive Study on Solution Process Engineering
Authors: Hsu Chih‐Wei , Yu Sheng‐Kai , Shen Ming‐Yan , Ercan Ender , Wang Yi‐Jen , Lin Bi‐Hsuan , Wu Hsuan‐Chen , Lin Yan‐Cheng , Liu Cheng‐Liang , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: February 2024

The escalating environmental impact of pollution and the imperative to reduce carbon emissions have heightened the significance of developing biobased materials from natural biomass for electronic devices. This study investigates the utilization of biofermentation‐produced recombinant spider silk and animal‐derived hemin to create a novel biobased electret for field‐effect transistor memory. A critical challenge arises from the incompatibility between natural photoresponsive molecules and insulating biomaterials, resulting in severe phase separation that compromises film quality and morphology uniformity. This study systematically examines the effects of various film deposition and manufacturing techniques on the biobased electret's morphology, phase separation, and performance. Different methods demonstrate distinct advantages in terms of molecular aggregation/segregation, morphological homogeneity, and device performance. Phototransistor memory devices fabricated using spin coating and spray coating techniques exhibit robust aggregations and high memory windows of ≈30 V. Conversely, devices produced through solution shearing and electrospinning methods display enhanced smooth morphologies and high photoresponsivity. The phototransistor memory comprising electrospun fibers holds the potential to achieve the highest memory ratio, reaching ≈105. These findings not only highlight the applications of biobased materials through scalable film deposition processes but also underscore the importance of refining their morphology, phase separation, and performance in optoelectronic devices.
Anion/Cation Solvation Engineering for a Ternary Low‐Concentration Electrolyte toward High‐Voltage and Long‐Life Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Yang Cheng , Yao Lingbo , Wang Yichao , Jiang Ning , Liu Yu
Published: February 2024

High‐voltage sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are one of the most promising energy storage technologies for abundant resources and cost‐efficiency. However, their low energy density compared with lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) hinders their practical applications. The high reactivity of high‐voltage cathodes, the primary factor, leads to deterioration of electrode/electrolyte interphase. Herein, a novel anion/cation solvation strategy is innovatively proposed for a ternary low‐concentration electrolyte that tackles the critical bottleneck of unstable electrode/electrolyte interphase. Especially, the intermolecular interaction within as‐designed electrolyte is remodeled by weakly polar fluorinated co‐solvent (ethoxy(pentafluoro)cyclotriphosphazene, PFPN) compared with traditional carbonate‐based electrolytes. PFPN can not only stabilize propylene carbonate (PC), reduce the interaction of Na+‐PC, ClO4−, accelerating Na+ desolvation, but also weaken the interaction of anions to form stable organic/inorganic composite cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI). In this work, the ionic conductivity of low‐concentration electrolyte increases to 6.12 mS cm−1 and the oxidation stability is successfully extended to 4.84 V. And Na3V2(PO4)2F3 (NVPF)||Na half‐cells present excellent cycling performance with average coulombic efficiency of 99.5% after 2000 cycles at 4.5 V and NVPF||hard carbon (HC) full cells with relatively high energy density (≈450 Wh kg−1) competitive to commercial LIBs, which are expected to be coupled with higher voltage cathodes to achieve higher energy density in future.
A High‐Power Rechargeable Sodium‐Ion Full Battery Operating at −40 °C
Authors: Wang Yingyu , Lan Hao , Dong Shuai , Zhu Qiaonan , Cheng Liwei , Wang Han , Wang Jiawei , Wang Sicong , Tang Mengyao , Shodievich Kurbаnov Mirtemir , Wang Gongkai , Wang Hua
Published: February 2024

High‐power‐density rechargeable batteries are highly indispensable for power‐intensive application scenarios, such as vehicle start‐stop system and grid‐level frequency regulation. However, realizing high‐power‐density alkali‐ion batteries is challenging especially at low temperatures, as undesirable alkali metal plating tends to occur more easily on the anode surface due to the increased electrochemical impedance and polarization. Herein, a low‐temperature, high‐power‐density rechargeable Na3V2(PO4)3 ||hard carbon (HC) sodium‐ion full battery without Na plating is realized by electrolyte regulation. The designed high‐solvation‐entropy electrolyte enables a high ionic conductivity of 13.87 mS cm−1 at −40 °C. More importantly, the enhanced contact‐ion pairs solvation structure induces an anion‐derived, thin, NaF‐rich solid electrolyte interface (SEI) on HC anodes with low interfacial resistance to ensure facile Na+ diffusion through the SEI. Consequently, the assembled sodium‐ion full battery demonstrates a record‐high power density of 1132.31 W kg−1 (with an energy density of 61.94 Wh kg−1) at −40 °C and 13372.56 W kg−1 (132.83 Wh kg−1) at 25 °C (based on total mass of the active materials on anode and cathode). This work will expedite the development of sodium‐ion batteries for power‐intensive applications in extreme environments.
High‐Capacity, Long‐Life Sulfide All‐Solid‐State Batteries with Single‐Crystal Ni‐Rich Layered Oxide Cathodes
Authors: Liu Huan , Wang Yue , Chen Liquan , Li Hong , Wu Fan
Published: February 2024

Sulfide all‐solid‐state battery (SASSB) with ultrahigh‐nickel layered oxide cathode (LiNixCoyMn1‐x‐yO2, NCM, x ≥ 0.9) offers the potential of high energy density and safety for superior energy storage systems. However, stable cycling is difficult to realize due to adverse interfacial reactions, space charge layer (SCL), and elemental diffusion. Herein, a straightforward solid‐phase coating strategy is exploited to synthesize Ni90‐S cathode, which greatly improves the charge transmission capability of the composite cathode and suppresses interfacial reactions in SASSB. The consequent SC‐Ni90‐0.2%S/Li6PS5Cl/Li4Ti5O12 SASSB exhibits enhanced electrochemical performance, including a long life of 500 cycles with 87% capacity retention at 1C, high areal capacity of 11.44 mAh cm−2, and excellent rate performance at 20 C. These results promise an efficient strategy for designing cathode materials for SASSBs.
Efforts Toward the Fabrication of Thermoelectric Cooling Module Based on N‐Type and P‐Type PbTe Ingots
Authors: Liu Shibo , Qin Yongxin , Wen Yi , Shi Haonan , Qin Bingchao , Hong Tao , Gao Xiang , Cao Qian , Chang Cheng , Zhao Li‐Dong
Published: February 2024

Thermoelectric cooling has gained much attention due to its significant application in 5G communication chip cooling. Enhancing the performance of thermoelectric cooling devices is an imminent and pressing concern. Applying the same material for both n‐type and p‐type components can promote the compatibility of thermoelectric cooling module due to their similar mechanical properties. This work focuses on the development of thermoelectric cooling module based on n‐type and p‐type PbTe ingots. The high ZT values near room temperature are achieved through fabricating PbTe ingots. This approach substantially enhances the carrier mobility by minimizing charge carrier scattering at grain boundaries compared to polycrystals. These optimized ingots are then utilized to construct a thermoelectric cooling device consisting of seven pairs of thermoelectric couples, which achieves a maximum cooling temperature difference of ≈14 K at room temperature and ≈28 K at 350 K. This study offers fresh insights into the development of thermoelectric cooling module using PbTe‐based materials.
Dynamical Mechanism for Reaching Ultrahigh Voltages from a Falling Droplet
Authors: Zhang Hongbo , Tian Bingkun , Jiang Xiaofeng , Li Luxian , Xue Minmin , Guo Wanlin , Zhang Zhuhua
Published: February 2024

Recent experiments have demonstrated an extremely high output voltage of 260 V by impinging droplets on an electret surface with top and back electrodes. However, the mechanism underlying the generated high voltage remains elusive. Through high‐speed imaging of the impinging water droplet, it is found that the recorded voltage is proportional to the change rate of contact length l between the droplet and the top electrode over time, that is, dl/dt. By combining an electrostatic model with multi‐physics simulations, the time‐dependent charge distribution on the top electrode is analytically described as a function of several key factors pertaining to the spreading dynamics of droplet and the geometrical dimensions of device. These results show that the high voltage originates from the accumulation of charge in the spreading droplet and the ensuing instantaneous discharge upon high‐speed contact with the top electrode. Using the model‐optimized parameters, the experimentally generated voltage from a falling 64 µL droplet with a 2 mm salt can be boosted to 1030 V, giving rise to an energy conversion efficiency as high as 3.3%. This conversion efficiency will further increase by 14 times if the surface charge density of the electret can be enhanced to its limit using state‐of‐the‐art fabrication techniques.
Biomimetic Guttation Feature in 2D Hydrotalcite Membranes for Self‐Sustaining Water Purification
Authors: Fan Zhi‐Wei , Zhang Jie , Zuo Bo‐Yu , Tian Xiao‐Bao , Wang Zhifeng , Ju Xiao‐Jie , Xie Rui , Wang Wei , Pan Da‐Wei , Liu Zhuang , Chu Liang‐Yin
Published: February 2024

Significant achievements have been made in membrane‐based nanofiltration to combat global micropollutant contamination in aquatic environments, but the current water purification membranes have been constrained by the inherent limitations of substantial operating pressure gradients. Here, a novel solution inspired by natural guttation process observed in plants is presented. This biomimetic guttation feature is realized in the 2D hydrotalcite membranes composed of layered double hydroxides (LDHs), which spontaneously exhibit water seepage, akin to the expulsion of excess liquid from plant leaves in nature. This self‐sustaining water permeation is attributed to the surface force‐pore flow mechanism. Unlike conventional membranes requiring external operating pressure, the guttation flux positively correlates with LDH membrane thickness up to a threshold point. Further demonstration shows the potential of the membrane by achieving over 99% rejection of small molecular weight organic dyes, for addressing micropollutant challenges. Leveraging the guttation feature, steric effects related to the d‐spacing, and the chemical safety of LDH, the finding opens multiple opportunities for self‐sustaining nanofiltration and forward osmosis applications, such as pharmaceuticals (e.g., protein purification) and food processing (e.g., fruit juice or milk concentration) standing to benefit significantly from this innovative technology.
One‐Step Fabrication of New PCPNs with Unique Optical Responses for Ultra‐Stable Anti‐Counterfeiting Labels
Authors: Chen Xiao , Wu Youfusheng , Tian Bin , Zheng Ke , Zhan Haoye , Wu Wei
Published: February 2024

Constructing a library of stable phosphors with unconventional fluorescence (FL) and room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) color combination is an effective approach to enhance anti‐counterfeiting strength, but remains a challenge. Herein, a one‐step strategy is proposed to fabricate ultra‐stable CsPbX3/carbon dots (CDs) @NH4AlP2O7 (X = Cl, Br, and I) nanocomposites (PCPNs) with full‐spectrum FL emission and constant short‐wavelength blue RTP emission, breaking the conventional luminescent properties that RTP generally exhibit obvious wavelength red‐shifts compared with FL. The enhanced full‐color (457–612 nm) FL emissions are implemented by adjusting halogen compositions, which is attributed to CsPbX3 as the dominant FL center. Owing to the RTP emission of CDs, constant long‐lived blue RTP emission lasting 12 s is observed from PCPNs. Additionally, the PCPNs exhibit remarkable tolerance to prolonged ultraviolet irradiation and erosion by solutions with various pH and solvents, supported by NH4AlP2O7 inert shell stabilizing the perovskite structure and triplet state. When the anti‐counterfeiting ink based on PCPNs is printed on various substrates, fine anti‐counterfeiting labels with unconventional emission combinations of FL and RTP are formed and show excellent solvent resistance and mechanical stability. This study provides fresh perspectives on the development of anti‐counterfeiting labels with enhanced security strength and long‐term effects.
Activatable Janus Nanoparticles for Precise NIR‐II Bioimaging and Synergistic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Bao Jiasheng , Liu Ruiqi , Yu Zhouyu , Cheng Zhen , Chang Baisong
Published: February 2024

Despite multifunctional theranostics hold vast potential in deep tissue bioimaging and tumor therapy, activatable nanomedicine with integration of precise diagnosis and effective treatment is usually achieved at the cost of complicated synthesis chemistries. Here, a facile way to design bioresponsive Ag2S‐Ag Janus probes coated by polyethylene glycol (PEG) (denoted as AAP) is showed, active in the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm). In tumor microenvironment, Ag part can yield hydroxyl radicals (·OH) by consuming H2O2 for high‐efficiency chemodynamic therapy (CDT), while Ag2S part has impressive photothermal therapy (PTT). The synergistic benefits from Ag and Ag2S parts further boosted CDT effect of AAP Janus probes with high photothermal conversion efficiency up to 56.8%. Moreover, multiple lines of evidence supported that extremely faint fluorescence of AAP Janus probes can be significantly activated by overexpressed levels of H2O2, showing bright NIR‐II emission at ≈1270 nm with over 5.6 × 103‐fold increase in signal intensity. AAP Janus probes are easily activatable for NIR‐II imaging for tumor‐specific identification, and effectively ablate tumor tissues with tumor inhibition rate of 96.2%. This study expects that AAP Janus probe will open up a new route to achieve precise tumor diagnosis and treatment in the NIR‐II window.
Engineering the Electronic Interaction Between Single Au Atoms and CoN Through Nitrogen‐Coordination Bonding as an Efficient Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Hu Xiaolin , Chen Xia , Li Xiang , Xu Chaohe
Published: February 2024

Single‐atom catalysts hold significance in the field of electrocatalysis. In this study, cobalt nitride (CoN), known for its semiconductor characteristics, is selected as the substrate, on which single gold (Au) atoms are loaded, to synthesize the catalyst Au SAC CoN@NF with Au single atoms anchored on CoN catalysts and grown on nickel foam. The introduction of single Au atoms results in an exceptional double‐layer capacitance (1425.7 mF cm−2), which offers immense possibilities for the applications of zinc–air batteries based on Au SAC CoN@NF. The zinc–air batteries demonstrated remarkable performance metrics, including a power density of 161.94 mW cm−2, a specific capacity of 813.80 mAh g−1, and a cycling stability of more than 260 h at 10 mA cm−2. In addition, these batteries show an outstanding round‐trip efficiency of 65.1%. Density functional theory calculations reveal that Au SAC CoN@NF can optimize the adsorption energies of intermediates for oxygen evolution reaction and promote single Au atoms in transporting electrons to the OH− species at an Au–N active site for oxygen reduction reaction. The proposed electronic metal‐support interaction strategy offers fresh insights for designing single‐atom catalysts to enhance electrocatalysis efficiency, thereby expanding the practical application prospects of zinc–air batteries.
Ptychographic Nanoscale Imaging of the Magnetoelectric Coupling in Freestanding BiFeO3
Authors: Butcher Tim A. , Phillips Nicholas W. , Chiu Chun‐Chien , Wei Chia‐Chun , Ho Sheng‐Zhu , Chen Yi‐Chun , Fröjdh Erik , Baruffaldi Filippo , Carulla Maria , Zhang Jiaguo , Bergamaschi Anna , Vaz Carlos A. F. , Kleibert Armin , Finizio Simone , Yang Jan‐Chi , Huang Shih‐Wen , Raabe Jörg
Published: February 2024

Understanding the magnetic and ferroelectric ordering of magnetoelectric multiferroic materials at the nanoscale necessitates a versatile imaging method with high spatial resolution. Here, soft X‐ray ptychography is employed to simultaneously image the ferroelectric and antiferromagnetic domains in an 80 nm thin freestanding film of the room‐temperature multiferroic BiFeO3 (BFO). The antiferromagnetic spin cycloid of period 64 nm is resolved by reconstructing the corresponding resonant elastic X‐ray scattering in real space and visualized together with mosaic‐like ferroelectric domains in a linear dichroic contrast image at the Fe L3 edge. The measurements reveal a near perfect coupling between the antiferromagnetic and ferroelectric ordering by which the propagation direction of the spin cycloid is locked orthogonally to the ferroelectric polarization. In addition, the study evinces both a preference for in‐plane propagation of the spin cycloid and changes of the ferroelectric polarization by 71° between multiferroic domains in the epitaxial strain‐free, freestanding BFO film. The results provide a direct visualization of the strong magnetoelectric coupling in BFO and of its fine multiferroic domain structure, emphasizing the potential of ptychographic imaging for the study of multiferroics and non‐collinear magnetic materials with soft X‐rays.
Bio‐Inspired Dynamically Morphing Microelectronics toward High‐Density Energy Applications and Intelligent Biomedical Implants
Authors: Merces Leandro , Ferro Letícia Mariê Minatogau , Thomas Aleena , Karnaushenko Dmitriy D. , Luo Yumin , Egunov Aleksandr I. , Zhang Wenlan , Bandari Vineeth K. , Lee Yeji , McCaskill John S. , Zhu Minshen , Schmidt Oliver G. , Karnaushenko Daniil
Published: February 2024

Choreographing the adaptive shapes of patterned surfaces to exhibit designable mechanical interactions with their environment remains an intricate challenge. Here, a novel category of strain‐engineered dynamic‐shape materials, empowering diverse multi‐dimensional shape modulations that are combined to form fine‐grained adaptive microarchitectures is introduced. Using micro‐origami tessellation technology, heterogeneous materials are provided with strategic creases featuring stimuli‐responsive micro‐hinges that morph precisely upon chemical and electrical cues. Freestanding multifaceted foldable packages, auxetic mesosurfaces, and morphable cages are three of the forms demonstrated herein of these complex 4‐dimensional (4D) metamaterials. These systems are integrated in dual proof‐of‐concept bioelectronic demonstrations: a soft foldable supercapacitor enhancing its power density (≈108 mW cm−2), and a bio‐adaptive device with a dynamic shape that may enable novel smart‐implant technologies. This work demonstrates that intelligent material systems are now ready to support ultra‐flexible 4D microelectronics, which can impart autonomy to devices culminating in the tangible realization of microelectronic morphogenesis.
High‐Fluidity/High‐Strength Dual‐Layer Gel Electrolytes Enable Ultra‐Flexible and Dendrite‐Free Fiber‐Shaped Aqueous Zinc Metal Battery
Authors: Li Chaowei , Wang Wenhui , Luo Jie , Zhuang Wubin , Zhou Jianxian , Liu Shizuo , Lin Lin , Gong Wenbin , Hong Guo , Shao Zhipeng , Du Jimin , Zhang Qichong , Yao Yagang
Published: February 2024

Fiber‐shaped aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (FAZIBs) with intrinsic safety, highcapacity, and superb omnidirectional flexibility hold promise for wearable energy‐supply devices. However, the interfacial separation of fiber‐shaped electrodes and electrolytes caused by Zinc (Zn) stripping process and severe Zn dendrites occurring at the folded area under bending condition seriously restricts FAZIBs' practical application. Here, an advanced confinement encapsulation strategy is originally reported to construct dual‐layer gel electrolyte consisting of high‐fluidity polyvinyl alcohol‐Zn acetate inner layer and high‐strength Zn alginate outer layer for fiber‐shaped Zn anode. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of inner‐outer gel electrolyte and the formation of solid electrolyte interphase on Zn anode surface by lysine additive, the resulting fiber‐shaped Zn‐Zn symmetric cell delivers long cycling life over 800 h at 1 mA cm−2 with dynamic bending frequency of 0.1 Hz. The finite element simulation further confirms that dual‐layer gel electrolyte can effectively suppress the interfacial separation arising from the Zn stripping and bending process. More importantly, a robust twisted fiber‐shaped Zn/zinc hexacyanoferrate battery based on dual‐layer gel electrolyte is successfully assembled, achieving a remarkable capacity retention of 97.7% after bending 500 cycles. Therefore, such novel dual‐layer gel electrolyte design paves the way for the development of long‐life fiber‐shaped aqueous metal batteries.
On‐Demand Magnetically‐Activated Drug Delivery from Additively Manufactured Porous Bone Implants to Tackle Antibiotic‐Resistant Infections
Authors: Šalandová Monika , Leeflang Marius Alexander , Klimopoulou Maria , Fratila‐Apachitei Lidy Elena , Apachitei Iulian , Zadpoor Amir Abbas
Published: February 2024

This study proposes a new concept for an on‐demand drug releasing device intended for integration into additively manufactured (i.e., 3D printed) orthopedic implants. The system comprises a surface with conduits connected to a subsurface reservoir used for storage and on‐demand release of antimicrobial agents, covered with a cap that prevents the antibacterial agents from being released until alternating magnetic field (AMF) raises the temperature of the cap, thus, releasing the stored drug. To demonstrate this concept, Ti6Al4V specimens are directly 3D printed using selective laser melting and their surface, reservoirs, and drug releasing properties are characterized. A new synthetic antimicrobial peptide, SAAP‐148, is thereafter tested for its cytotoxic, osteogenic, and immunomodulatory effects at concentrations relevant for its minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) and is compared with its natural analogue, LL‐37. The results showed that AMF successfully activated the release from the 3D printed loaded samples. Both peptides demonstrated to be non‐cytotoxic within the MBC levels for macrophages and preosteoblasts and did not influence their osteoimmunomodulatory behavior. The findings of this study indicate that the proposed concept is technically feasible and has the potential to be used for the development of bone implants with on‐demand delivery systems to fight IAI without systemic or continuous local release of antibiotics.
Colonic Delivery of Aqueous Suspensions Using 3D Printed Capsules
Authors: Green Buzhor Marina , Abdi Fatma , Luo Zhi , Leroux Jean‐Christophe
Published: February 2024

The efficient oral delivery of aqueous suspensions to the distal intestine or the colon is a significant pharmaceutical challenge because few capsules are sufficiently stable to protect aqueous suspensions while enduring the conditions during gastrointestinal (GI) transit. Herein, a design is introduced for enteric capsules intended to transport aqueous media to the distal part of the intestine. These capsules consist of a water‐insoluble body and lid that encapsulate the solution and are held together by an enteric water‐soluble locking cap. The capsules are fabricated using a combination of 3D printing methods enabling design control and precision. Mechanical testing reveals that the capsules are soft, strong, and could withstand forces generally encountered during GI transit. The capsules also exhibit resistance to proton diffusion, which is important for protecting their content from gastric acidity. In vitro dissolution assessments and in vivo imaging studies demonstrate that the capsules release their content in the later stages of the GI tract. This unique design has potential applications in targeted delivery of aqueous suspensions of live bacterial suspensions to the colon, offering a promising platform for therapeutic interventions and research in gut health.
Greatly Enhanced Magnetic and Magneto‐Optical Properties of Bismuth Iron Oxide Sillenite Crystal with Cobalt–Iron Codoping
Authors: Liu Meng‐Li , Wang Cheng , Wu Xuan , Shen Jin‐Ru , Gao Teng , Chen Xin , Hu Xiao‐Lin , Zhuang Nai‐Feng
Published: February 2024

The chiral sillenite Bi25FeO40 exhibits versatile properties including electro‐optics, magneto‐optics, optical rotation, and photorefraction, showing great potential in multi‐functional magneto‐optical devices. However, the weak magnetism of this crystal leads to a poor magneto‐optical property, which is extremely hindering its practical applications. Combining with the sillenite structure, the formation energy and the magnetic‐optical effect are calculated based on density functional theory. The codoping of strongly magnetic Co and Fe ions is predicted to enable high doping concentrations. The hybridization between Bi 6p orbitals and Fe/Co 3d orbitals significantly enhances the optical transition and thus greatly improves the magneto‐optical properties. The millimeter‐sized Bi26‐x‐yCoxFeyO40 crystals are successfully prepared by hydrothermal methods. The characterizations on structure, TG‐DSC, magnetism, and magneto‐optical effect confirm the theoretical predictions that the Co‐Fe codoped crystals maintain the chiral bismuth ferrite structure with multifunctional properties and high thermal stability. The Co‐Fe codoping significantly enhances the magnetism and magneto‐optical properties of Bi25FeO40 crystal. The magnetization of Bi19.0Co3.5Fe3.5O40 increases by 27 times and the magneto‐optical effect of Bi19.8Co3.0Fe3.2O40 at 720, 777, 1288, 1388, and 1790 nm are greater than Bi:YIG and undoped Bi25FeO40. Bi26‐x‐yCoxFeyO40 crystals with enhanced magneto‐optical properties by Co‐Fe codoping are promising for novel multifunctional magneto‐optical devices.
Unraveling The Impact of Isomerism on Enzymatic Polymerization of Furanic Polyesters
Authors: Silvianti Fitrilia , Maniar Dina , Agostinho Beatriz , de Leeuw Tijn C. , Pelras Théophile , Dijkstra Lieke , Woortman Albert J. J. , Dijken Jur van , Thiyagarajan Shanmugam , Sousa Andreia F. , Loos Katja
Published: February 2024

As awareness of the environmental impact of fossil‐based polymers grows, the demand for biobased alternatives rises. In this context, combining eco‐friendly synthesis techniques with renewable resources is important to produce polymers efficiently and sustainably. Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is one of the key building blocks for producing biobased polymers. However, most studies predominantly focus on 2,5‐FDCA, while FDCA encompasses other noteworthy isomers, namely, 2,4‐ and 3,4‐FDCA. The polymers derived from these two isomers have recently gained attention due to their promising properties. In this study, an environmentally friendly approach for producing biobased polyesters from 2,5‐, 2,4‐, and 3,4‐FDCA dimethyl ester isomers is proposed. The synthesis is conducted under greener conditions, utilizing Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) enzyme as a biocatalyst. The performance of the enzyme is assessed, revealing CALB preference for polymerizing 2,5‐FDCA over 2,4‐ and 3,4‐FDCA dimethyl ester, which is elucidated by docking analysis. Moreover, CALB shows varying rates of cyclic oligomer formation for each isomer, favoring 2,5‐FDCA cyclization. The structure‐property relationship, encompassing the variation in isomeric structure, is evaluated through structural characterization, thermal analysis, and surface properties. This study primarily emphasized enzymatic polymerization and highlighted its versatility in accommodating different monomer isomeric substitutions.
Enabling Fluorine‐Free Lithium‐Ion Capacitors and Lithium‐Ion Batteries for High‐Temperature Applications by the Implementation of Lithium Bis(oxalato)Borate and Ethyl Isopropyl Sulfone as Electrolyte
Authors: Kreth Fabian Alexander , Köps Lukas , Leibing Christian , Darlami Magar Sandesh , Hermesdorf Marius , Schutjajew Konstantin , Neumann Christof , Leistenschneider Desirée , Turchanin Andrey , Oschatz Martin , Gómez Urbano Juan Luis , Balducci Andrea
Published: February 2024

A novel fluorine‐free electrolyte comprising a solution of lithium bis(oxalato)borate in ethyl isopropyl sulfone is presented. It is characterized by its safety and non‐toxic properties, along with the capability to effectively suppress the anodic dissolution of aluminum. Successful high‐temperature application of this electrolyte in combination with various capacitor‐ and battery‐like electrode materials is shown. Further utilization in a lithium‐ion capacitor and a lithium‐ion battery is demonstrated. To the best of the knowledge, the lithium‐ion capacitor presented in this work represents the first entirely fluorine‐free device suitable for high‐temperature applications. When operating at 60 °C, this device delivers a maximum energy output of 169 Wh kg−1AM at a power of 200 W kg−1AM and even 80 Wh kg1AM at 10 kW kg‐1AM, along with the ability to retain 80% of its initial capacitance after 3500 cycles at 5 A g−1. As such, this novel electrolyte is a promising alternative to conventional fluorine‐containing configurations since its performance is capable to match or even surpass that of most similar laboratory‐scale LICs.
Dual Redox Mediators Assisted Hierarchically Porous Hollow Carbon Shell Cathode for Enhanced Performance Li‐O2 Battery
Authors: Gou Zhaolin , Yao Ying , Geng Xinjia , Yang Feiyang , Hu Xinrong , Chen Ziyi , Zheng Lijun , Su Yuefeng , Wu Feng , Lu Jun
Published: February 2024

Rechargeable lithium‐oxygen (Li‐O2) batteries with high theoretical energy density are regarded as a promising candidate for the booming electric vehicle manufacturing industry, whereas their commercial application is hindered due to poor cyclic stability caused by the sluggish kinetics and inevitable cathode passivation. Herein, a synergistic working mechanism of Li‐O2 battery is initiated by implementing well‐designed hollow carbon shells with hierarchically porous hollow structure (HCS) assisted by dual redox mediators (RMs) simultaneously, so as to systemically address issues of diminished discharge capacity and reaction kinetics. The hierarchically porous structure of HCS constructs more space to accommodate Li2O2, increases the accessibility of active sites, and enhances discharge capacity. More importantly, the dual RMs regulate the growth mechanism of Li2O2 in surface‐mediated mode, resulting in an easily decomposed film‐like Li2O2 with higher electron transport capacity and improving the reaction kinetics. As a result of the synergistic effort, an HCS‐based Li‐O2 battery with dual RMs manifests a total discharge capacity of 24580 mA h g−1 and a prolonged cycle life of 2500 h at the current density of 100 mA g−1. This design philosophy will open up a new way to optimize and upgrade the cathode materials of Li‐O2 batteries.