bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microfluidics‐Driven Manufacturing and Multiscale Analytical Characterization of Nanoparticle‐Vesicle Hybrids
Authors: Cardellini Jacopo , Normak Karl , Gerlt Michael , Makasewicz Katarzyna , Seiffert Charlotte , Capasso Palmiero Umberto , Ye Suiying , González Gómez Manuel A. , Piñero Yolanda , Rivas José , Bongiovanni Antonella , Bergese Paolo , Arosio Paolo
Published: December 2024

Coating synthetic nanoparticles (NPs) with lipid membranes is a promising approach to enhance the performance of nanomaterials in various biological applications, including therapeutic delivery to target organs. Current methods for achieving this coating often rely on bulk approaches which can result in low efficiency and poor reproducibility. Continuous processes coupled with quality control represent an attractive strategy to manufacture products with consistent attributes and high yields. Here, this concept is implemented by developing an acoustic microfluidic device together with an analytical platform to prepare nanoparticle‐vesicle hybrids and quantitatively characterize the nanoparticle coverage using fluorescence‐based techniques at different levels of resolution. With this approach polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) nanoparticles are successfully coated with liposomes and extracellular vesicles (EVs), achieving a high encapsulation efficiency of 70%. Moreover, the approach enables the identification of design rules to control the efficiency of encapsulation by tuning various operational parameters and material properties, including buffer composition, nanoparticle/vesicle ratio, and vesicle rigidity.
NIR‐Light Activable 3D Printed Platform Nanoarchitectured with Electrospun Plasmonic Filaments for On Demand Treatment of Infected Wounds
Authors: Rybak Daniel , Du Jingtao , Nakielski Paweł , Rinoldi Chiara , Kosik‐Kozioł Alicja , Zakrzewska Anna , Wu Haoyang , Li Jing , Li Xiaoran , Yu Yunlong , Ding Bin , Pierini Filippo
Published: December 2024

Bacterial infections can lead to severe complications that adversely affect wound healing. Thus, the development of effective wound dressings has become a major focus in the biomedical field, as current solutions remain insufficient for treating complex, particularly chronic wounds. Designing an optimal environment for healing and tissue regeneration is essential. This study aims to optimize a multi‐functional 3D printed hydrogel for infected wounds. A dexamethasone (DMX)‐loaded electrospun mat, incorporated with gold nanorods (AuNRs), is structured into short filaments (SFs). The SFs are 3D printed into gelatine methacrylate (GelMA) and sodium alginate (SA) scaffold. The photo‐responsive AuNRs within SFs significantly enhanced DXM release when exposed to near‐infrared (NIR) light. The material exhibits excellent photothermal properties, biocompatibility, and antibacterial activity under NIR irradiation, effectively eliminating Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli in vitro. In vivo, material combined with NIR light treatment facilitate infectes wound healing, killing S. aureus bacteria, reduced inflammation, and induced vascularization. The final materials’ shape can be adjusted to the skin defect, release the anti‐inflammatory DXM on‐demand, provide antimicrobial protection, and accelerate the healing of chronic wounds.
Computational Modeling of Reticular Materials: The Past, the Present, and the Future
Authors: Temmerman Wim , Goeminne Ruben , Rawat Kuber Singh , Van Speybroeck Veronique
Published: December 2024

Reticular materials rely on a unique building concept where inorganic and organic building units are stitched together giving access to an almost limitless number of structured ordered porous materials. Given the versatility of chemical elements, underlying nets, and topologies, reticular materials provide a unique platform to design materials for timely technological applications. Reticular materials have now found their way in important societal applications, like carbon capture to address climate change, water harvesting to extract atmospheric moisture in arid environments, and clean energy applications. Combining predictions from computational materials chemistry with advanced experimental characterization and synthesis procedures unlocks a design strategy to synthesize new materials with the desired properties and functions. Within this review, the current status of modeling reticular materials is addressed and supplemented with topical examples highlighting the necessity of advanced molecular modeling to design materials for technological applications. This review is structured as a templated molecular modeling study starting from the molecular structure of a realistic material towards the prediction of properties and functions of the materials. At the end, the authors provide their perspective on the past, present of future in modeling reticular materials and formulate open challenges to inspire future model and method developments.
Noble‐Metal‐Free Cocatalysts Reinforcing Hole Consumption for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution with Ultrahigh Apparent Quantum Efficiency
Authors: Feng Yajie , Gong Shaokuan , Wang Yang , Ban Chaogang , Qu Xianlin , Ma Jiangping , Duan Youyu , Lin Chi , Yu Danmei , Xia Lu , Chen Xihan , Tao Xiaoping , Gan Liyong , Zhou Xiaoyuan
Published: December 2024

Achieving efficient and sustainable hydrogen production through photocatalysis is highly promising yet remains a significant challenge, especially when replacing costly noble metals with more abundant alternatives. Conversion efficiency with noble‐metal‐free alternatives is frequently limited by high charge recombination rates, mainly due to the sluggish transfer and inefficient consumption of photo‐generated holes. To address these challenges, a rational design of noble‐metal‐free cocatalysts as oxidative sites is reported to facilitate hole consumption, leading to markedly increased H2 yield rates without relying on expensive noble metals. By integrating femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy with in situ characterizations and theoretical calculations, the rapid hole consumption is compellingly confirmed, which in turn promotes the effective separation and migration of photo‐generated carriers. The optimized catalyst delivers an impressive photocatalytic H2 yield rate of 57.84 mmol gcat−1 h−1, coupled with an ultrahigh apparent quantum efficiency reaching up to 65.8%. Additionally, a flow‐type quartz microreactor is assembled using the optimal catalyst thin film, which achieves a notable H2 yield efficiency of 0.102 mL min−1 and maintains high stability over 1260 min of continuous operation. The strategy of reinforcing hole consumption through noble‐metal‐free cocatalysts establishes a promising pathway for scalable and economically viable solar H2 production.
Adjusting Cell‐Surface Interactions Through a Covalent Immobilization of Biomolecules
Authors: Shakibania Sara , Biggs Manus J. P. , Krukiewicz Katarzyna
Published: December 2024

Development of multifunctional, bio‐active surfaces has become a major focus of biomedical engineering in the last decade. By using physicochemical surface modification technique, it is possible to equip biomedical surfaces with numerous properties, including enhanced cell proliferation and adhesion, as well as antibacterial or anti‐inflammatory effects. Principally, this has been achieved through surface functionalization with biochemistries to elicit specific biological functions. With respect to biochemical functionalization, both the substrate and the immobilization method can affect the performance of immobilized biomolecules, influencing their stability and activity. Covalent immobilization, particularly, is a favorable strategy to form long‐lasting biomedical coatings with versatile biological activity stable over time. This review combines an overview of current and emerging immobilization techniques coupled with an in‐depth investigation of the underlying mechanisms governing the activity and stability of covalently immobilized biomolecules. By dissecting the intricate interplay between immobilized biomolecules, cellular interactions, and functional outcomes, this study addresses a pivotal knowledge gap and presents an indispensable guide for the development of tailored biofunctionalized surfaces in the realm of biomedical engineering.
Borophene‐Based Ultrasensitive and Broadband Photodetectors
Authors: Abdi Yaser , Eskandari Alireza , Alavi Zahra , Khamsavi Anousha , Etminan Mahsa , Zahedi Mobina , Taleb Masoud , Talebi Nahid
Published: December 2024

Photodetectors based on vertical junctions between 2D materials and silicon offer enhanced sensitivity, reduced size, and better integrability with other systems. In these detectors, 2D materials are typically grown on metallic crystalline substrates and then transferred onto silicon to form a van der Waals junction between the 2D and silicon. In this work, χ3‐phase borophene is directly grown on single‐crystal silicon wafers, resulting in excellent Schottky junctions between borophene and silicon. This approach eliminates impurities often introduced during the transfer process, which is commonly performed using polymethyl methacrylate, ensuring a smooth fabrication process and a reliable electrical junction. Optoelectronic measurements of the borophene‐based detector on n‐type silicon demonstrate high sensitivity, reaching several amps per watt across a wide wavelength range from ultraviolet to infrared. This sensitivity is approximately ten times higher than that of detectors fabricated by transferring 2D materials onto silicon. Additionally, the response times of the fabricated detector are measured at 35 µs for the rise time and 225 µs for the fall time. These exceptional results are attributed to the superior junction formed through direct borophene growth on silicon, paving the way for advanced photodetectors with enhanced light–matter interaction efficiency in integrated silicon‐based circuits and technologies.
Efficient Charge Generation Assistant Layer for Tandem Organic Light Emitting Diodes Using Ytterbium–Silver Alloy
Authors: Kang Sung‐Cheon , Choi Eun‐young , Kim Hyo‐Bin , Kim Kanghoon , Shin Min‐Kyung , Kim Yong‐Sang , Song Jang‐Kun
Published: December 2024

Tandem organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) are an innovative and promising technology aimed at enhancing the luminance and extending the lifespan of OLED applications. A significant challenge in their development lies in achieving high‐performance charge‐generation layers (CGLs). In this study, the use of a yetterbium‐silver (Yb:Ag) alloy is proposed as an assistant layer within the CGL to improve the injection of generated electrons into the electron transport layer (ETL). This enhancement is confirmed through capacitance–voltage measurements and work function analysis. Moreover, the Yb:Ag layer exhibits exceptional optical transmittance and surface uniformity. Tandem devices fabricated with the Yb:Ag alloy assistant layer exhibited a significant reduction in operating voltage, approximately halving it compared to tandem devices without a metal assistant layer. This resulted in a 2.13‐fold increase in luminous efficiency and a 1.07‐fold improvement in power efficiency compared to a single‐unit device. Thus, the integration of a Yb–Ag alloy as a CGL assistant layer is a promising strategy for improving the performance and viability of tandem OLED technologies, underscoring its potential impact on next‐generation displays and lighting applications.
Full‐Color, Wide Field‐of‐View Metalens Imaging via Deep Learning
Authors: Dong Yunxi , Zheng Bowen , Yang Fan , Tang Hong , Zhao Huan , Huang Yi , Gu Tian , Hu Juejun , Zhang Hualiang
Published: December 2024

Chromatic aberration has been the main showstopper for metalenses when it comes to imaging applications with broadband sources such as ambient light. In wide field‐of‐view metalenses, this challenge becomes far more severe due to exacerbated lateral chromatic aberrations. In this paper, it is demonstrated, for the first time, full‐color wide field‐of‐view imaging using a fisheye metalens coupled with deep learning computational processing. This approach is capable of restoring panoramic images with enhanced signal‐to‐noise ratio while effectively correcting chromatic aberration, distortion, and vignetting. Furthermore, it is shown that the deep learning algorithm is robust against various lighting conditions and object distances, making it a versatile solution for practical imaging applications involving wide field‐of‐view metalenses.
Hybrid Silicon All‐Optical Switching Devices Integrated with 2D Material
Authors: Yamashita Daiki , Fang Nan , Fujii Shun , Kato Yuichiro K.
Published: December 2024

Hybrid all‐optical switching devices that combine silicon nanocavities and 2D semiconductor materials are proposed and demonstrated. By exploiting the refractive index modulation caused by photo‐induced carriers in the 2D material instead of the silicon substrate, the switching speed limitation imposed by the carrier lifetime of silicon is overcome while maintaining a low switching energy. Air‐mode photonic crystal nanobeam cavities capable of efficient interaction with 2D materials are fabricated, and molybdenum ditelluride, a 2D material with rapid carrier recombination, is transferred onto the cavities. The molybdenum ditelluride flake is excited by an optical pump pulse to shift the resonant wavelength of the cavity for switching operation. All‐optical switching operations are achieved on the time scale of tens of picoseconds while requiring low switching energies of a few hundred femtojoules.
Indirect In Situ Oxidization of Metallic Nanoparticles for a High‐Performance Broadband Transparent Detector by Plasmonic and Pyro‐Phototronic Coupling
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Tai , Vo Thi Sanh , Kumar Naveen , Patel Malkeshkumar , Lee Junghyun , Choi Chanhyuk , Nguyen Ha Trang , Yun Juhyung , Park JinJoo , Kim Joondong
Published: December 2024

Near‐infrared (NIR) photodetectors are valuable technological devices with numerous uses, and transforming opaque NIR photodetectors into transparent ones will aid in the development of invisible interfaces for the rapidly emerging technology of human–computer interactions. However, transparent NIR photodetectors typically suffer from considerable optical loss, which reduces the device sensitivity. The current study enhances the trade‐off between the transparency and sensitivity of NIR photodetectors by investigating the pyro‐phototronic effect, which is accomplished using an ITO/Ag‐Ag(O)/ZnO/NiO/AgNWs design. The design has a see‐through feature with a visible light transmittance of 62.1%. An ultrathin Ag‐Ag(O) layer absorbs NIR light, generating 476% more photocurrent because of the ZnO layer's pyroelectric effect. The pyro‐phototronic effect allows ITO/Ag‐Ag(O)/ZnO/NiO/AgNWs to be responsive to diverse NIR intensities with a response time of 0.18 ms. The metallic–semiconductor mixed‐phase properties of the Ag‐Ag(O) combination are produced by indirectly oxidizing embedded Ag nanostructures by adding oxygen during the ZnO layer development. The approach exploits the plasmonic effect of Ag nanoparticles, which improves the photothermal utilization of the ZnO layer, resulting in a stronger pyro‐phototronic response at shorter wavelengths. Transparent sensors with high sensitivity and broadband operation would advance image processing and human augmentation.
Constructing Chiral Core–Shell–Satellite Superstructures for Highly Efficient Antenna–Reactor Hot Electron Generation
Authors: Wang Le , Geng Tiepei , Hu Ningneng , Li Hao , Wang Kaiyu , Hao Lishuai , Ni Weihai
Published: December 2024

In hot electron (HE)‐driven photocatalysis, plasmonic metal nanocrystals with small size, or even nanoclusters, are preferrable. Antenna–reactor mechanism has been utilized to further boost the photocatalytic performance of the small reactor nanoparticles. The construction of a metal–semiconductor–metal core–shell–satellite (CSS) superstructure is demonstrated for highly efficient HE generation of the entire CSS architecture, where a mesoporous TiO2 (mTiO2) shell spatially separates the Au nanohelicoid (AuNH) antenna core and Au nanocluster (AuNC) reactor satellites. Individual AuNH@mTiO2@AuNC CSS superstructures are optically characterized using dark field scattering and circular differential scattering spectroscopies. The HE and circular differential HE photocurrent responses of the CSS superstructures are measured using a photoelectrochemical cell, where 12.4‐ and 8.3‐fold enhancements are respectively achieved with respect to that of the AuNHs. Electromagnetic simulations reveal that the contribution from the satellites with a small accumulative volume is almost equal to that from the core. Therefore, the specific‐volume HE rate of the satellites exhibit a high amplification ratio, 350, with respect to that of the core, being attributed to the antenna–reactor mechanism in the CSS architecture. Key factors are optimized, which includes small size of the plasmonic satellites, E‐field enhancement, and mesoporous semiconductor shell for efficient separation and collection of hot carriers.
Unlocking Near 100% PLQY: The Impact of Post‐Treatment on Emission Efficiency of Mn2+: CsPbCl3 Nanocrystals
Authors: Fei Liling , Yang Lin , Li Peng , Ma Jiangang
Published: December 2024

Mn2+ doped CsPbCl3 nanocrystals (Mn2+:CsPbCl3 NCs) show immense promise in lighting and display technologies owing to their outstanding optical characteristics. Nonetheless, high defect density, inefficient Mn2+ doping, and poor structural robustness pose considerable challenges in the synthesis of Mn2+:CsPbCl3 NCs with high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) and long‐term stability. This study introduces an eco‐friendly room‐temperature post‐treatment method utilizing MgCl2/oleylamine solution, boosting the total PLQY of the NCs from 65% to 98%, including a 30% increase for Mn2+ emission. Additionally, the post‐treatment significantly improves the NCs’ resilience against UV light, retaining 80% of their initial PL intensity after 120 hours of UV exposure. Comprehensive analyses including density functional theory simulation and temperature‐dependent PL spectra suggested that the PLQY enhancement is due to the improved Mn2+ doping efficiency and the effective passivation of native vacancy defects. The stability of the NCs is enhanced by replacing Pb2+ with Mg2+ and Mn2+, mitigating lattice distortions within the [PbCl6]4− octahedral framework. The color rendering index of white light‐emitting diodes fabricated with the post‐treated Mn2+:CsPbCl3 NCs achieves an exceptional value of 98. This work offers novel insights into the fabrication of high‐PLQY Mn2+:CsPbCl3 NCs, advancing the practical deployment of perovskite nanomaterials in various industries.
Addressing Thermal Stability Challenges in Top‐Emission OLEDs: The Role of Buffer Layer in Preventing Pixel Shrinkage
Authors: Ok Seung Ju , Le Thi Na , Son Ji Hee , Song Seung Yong , Suh Min Chul
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a strategic buffer layer approach to mitigate thermal‐induced pixel shrinkage in top‐emission organic light‐emitting diodes (TEOLEDs), enhancing both thermal stability and efficiency. A new cathode composed of binary alloy from silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) is developed for their moderately high binding energy, improving film uniformity and boosting optical and electrical performance. High surface energy metals, aluminum (Al) and Cu are employed as buffer layers to regulate the growth mechanism, resulting in an exceptionally smooth cathode film. The optimal device is designed by incorporating a bilayer electron injection layer consisting of lithium fluoride (LiF) and ytterbium (Yb) along with the buffer layer. The TEOLEDs achieved an impressive efficiency of 178 cd A−1 and luminance of 247,000 cd m−2 while demonstrating superior thermal stability, with the absence of cathode shrinkage after 240 h at 85 °C. This stability is attributed to the suppression of thermal diffusion and aggregation, facilitated by the high surface energy buffer layer and innovative cathode compositions employed.
Plasmonic and Photonic Modes in Colloidal CuS Nanocrystals
Authors: Elibol Kenan , Davoodi Fatemeh , Parekh Urvi , Taleb Masoud , Scheel Stefan , Burghard Marko , van Aken Peter A. , Klinke Christian , Talebi Nahid , Lesyuk Rostyslav
Published: December 2024

Copper monosulfide (CuS), also known as covellite, displays exceptional optoelectronic characteristics, exhibiting both plasmonic and photonic absorption in its monolithic nanomaterial form. It is classified as a hybrid metallic‐semiconducting material and a natural hyperbolic material with a distinctive crystal structure. Nanostructured CuS has been demonstrated to support localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR) in the near‐infrared spectral range. Here, the phenomenon of near‐infrared (NIR) to visible electromagnetic field localization in ultrathin crystalline quasi‐2D CuS nanocrystals is revealed. This is achieved by mapping LSPRs in a range of CuS structures using high‐resolution electron energy‐loss spectroscopy in combination with cathodoluminescence spectroscopy. In addition to LSPRs, a range of photonic modes in the visible and ultraviolet spectral ranges is identified in colloidally defined single‐crystalline nanostructures, with numerical simulations providing supporting evidence. Finally, CuS nanocrystals exhibit visible NIR light emission within the range of 600–900 nm when excited by an electron beam. Altogether, these properties make CuS nanocrystals highly suitable for applications in telecommunications, sensing, and nanophotonics.
Exciton Collimation, Focusing and Trapping Using Complex Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Lateral Heterojunctions
Authors: Lamsaadi Hassan , Cuche Aurelien , Agez Gonzague , Paradisanos Ioannis , Beret Dorian , Lombez Laurent , Renucci Pierre , Lagarde Delphine , Marie Xavier , Gan Ziyang , George Antony , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Turchanin Andrey , Combe Nicolas , Urbaszek Bernhard , Paillard Vincent , Poumirol Jean‐Marie
Published: December 2024

Controlling the motion of neutral excitons in optically active media is a mandatory development to enable the conception of advanced circuits and devices for applications in excitronics, quantum photonics, and optoelectronics. Recently, proof of unidirectional exciton transport from high‐ to low‐bandgap material is evidenced using a high‐quality lateral heterostructure separating transition metal dichalcogenide monolayers (TMD‐MLs). In this paper, by combining room‐temperature micro‐photoluminescence far‐field imaging with a statistical description of exciton transport, the underlying excitonic local distribution and fluxes taking place near lateral heterojunctions are unveiled. The complex 2D excitonic transport properties found near a linear interface separating WSe2 from MoSe2 TMD‐MLs are studied and reveal two distinct diffusion regimes profoundly affecting the effective diffusion length. Then, it is shown that combining two and three of these interfaces, allows advanced in‐plane control of the excitonic distribution and flux over large distances. Exciton focalization and trapping, allowing an increase in the local exciton density up to three orders of magnitude are demonstrated. Finally, flux collimation is achieved with the formation of parallel current lines extending a few micrometers away from the source. We believe that the deterministic shaping and positioning of the exciton distribution and flux shown here will be key toward the conception of realistic excitronic devices.
Enhanced Upconversion Photoluminescence in Freestanding Er3+ Doped SrTiO3 Scrolls via Strain Gradient Engineering
Authors: Shen Jiaying , Wen Yiyang , Cao Yilin , Chen Haisheng , Yang Ruhao , Zhang Shichao , Chen Wenwen , Zhang Fan , Ye Han , Zhang Yang , Wu Zhenping
Published: December 2024

Lanthanide‐doped phosphors have garnered significant attention in the field of optics due to their robust upconversion luminescence capabilities. Enhancing the upconversion luminescence of these phosphors is of paramount importance. The recent advancements in fabricating ultrathin freestanding perovskite oxides present new opportunities for exploring coupled properties such as flexoelectricity. A lanthanide‐doped freestanding perovskite oxide scroll, specifically an SrTiO3:Er scroll is introduced herein, exhibiting an average strain gradient of 9.5 × 104 m−1. The developed scroll structure achieves a remarkable enhancement in upconversion luminescence, with a maximum increase of 7.4 times at the wavelength of 548 nm, driven by the synergistic effects of ferroelectricity and flexoelectricity. Theoretical model is adopted to elucidate the relationship between the scroll structure and strain, further investigating the mechanisms underlying the photoluminescence enhancement. This work unveils a novel three–dimensional (3D) tubular platform for enhancing the luminescence of phosphors without structural constraints, facilitating integration with silicon photonics.
Contaminants Removal and Monitoring: The Role of Hybrid MOFs in Agricultural Advancement and Soil Amendment
Authors: Mohan Brij , Sharma Harish Kumar , Ručman Stefan , Singjai Pisith , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: December 2024

The interest in improving soil quality through innovative methods continues to grow in sustainable agriculture. Despite the emergence of new techniques, there has been limited research on methods based on metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs). This review first addresses the current issues in the soil and agriculture industry and discusses recent approaches for improving soil quality. It then explores the latest advancements in MOF‐based methods, which hold the potential to enhance soil quality and increase crop yields significantly. The unique properties and physicochemical mechanisms behind MOFs' applications and analytical performance are presented, highlighting their potential for more efficient and cost‐effective soil enhancement solutions. The review reveals that these new MOF approaches show promise in enhancing soil quality through processes such as adsorption, extraction, analyte monitoring, fertilization, soil washing, and moisture sensing. This review can lead to a future with higher soil quality, ensuring better food production and a more sustainable agricultural industry.
Steep‐Slope IGZO Transistor Monolithically Integrated with Initialization‐Free Ag/Ti/Hf0.8Zr0.2O2 Atomic Threshold Switch
Authors: Park Junmo , Jung Hanggyo , Eom Deokjoon , Lee Heesoo , Kim Hyunhee , Kim Yonghoon , Jeon Jongwook , Kim Hyoungsub
Published: December 2024

A steep‐slope In‐Ga‐Zn‐O (IGZO) field‐effect transistor (FET) monolithically integrated with an Ag/Ti/Hf0.8Zr0.2O2 atomic threshold switch (ATS) device is presented, which allows switching below the Boltzmann limit of 60 mV dec−1 at room temperature (25 °C). The low‐temperature processable IGZO FET is combined with the Hf0.8Zr0.2O2‐based ATS device, which featured initialization‐free and low‐voltage switching, to achieve an ultra‐low power device solution with back‐end‐of‐line process compatibility (≤400 °C). To further assess the potential of the ATS‐IGZO FET devices for circuit applications, they are applied to logic and memory integrated circuits. Inverter ring oscillator simulations are performed to investigate the relationship between switching speed and power consumption. In addition, static random‐access memory simulations are performed to verify that ATS‐IGZO FETs can achieve a stable noise margin along with low standby power consumption. This comprehensive evaluation provides an in‐depth assessment of the applicability of ATS‐IGZO FETs for ultra‐low power logic and memory applications, highlighting their potential for substantial performance improvements.
Palliative management for malignant biliary obstruction and gastric outlet obstruction from pancreatic cancer
Authors: Wu Pengfei , Chen Kai , He Jin
Published: December 2024

Pancreatic cancer is among the leading causes of gastrointestinal cancer‐related death, with a dismal prognosis. Over 80% of pancreatic cancer patients present with advanced disease, making curative resection unfeasible. These patients are often presented with malignant biliary obstruction (MBO) and gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). In these cases, palliative management is aimed to alleviate symptoms, enhance quality of life, and facilitate subsequent chemotherapy. Currently, neoadjuvant chemotherapy is frequently used in both borderline resectable and resectable pancreatic cancer, necessitating effective biliary and gastrointestinal drainage in a growing number of patients. Traditionally, surgical bypass was the gold standard, performed via either a minimally invasive or open approach. However, notable progress has emerged in developing endoscopic techniques, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) stenting for MBO and endoscopic enteral stenting for GOO. While these procedures provide rapid symptom relief, they are associated with higher stent dysfunction rates and more frequent re‐intervention needs. When ERCP fails, percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage is a widely accepted alternative for MBO. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided techniques, including EUS‐guided biliary drainage and EUS‐guided gastroenterostomy, have recently gained prominence. Emerging clinical data suggest that these methods may be superior, potentially becoming the preferred first‐line palliative treatment for unresectable pancreatic cancer. This review will summarize the current evidence on managing MBO and GOO in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Predicting Performance of Hall Effect Ion Source Using Machine Learning
Authors: Park Jaehong , Doh Guentae , Lee Dongho , Kim Youngho , Shin Changmin , Shin Su‐Jin , Ghim Young‐Chul , Park Sanghoo , Choe Wonho
Published: December 2024

Accurate performance prediction methods are essential for the development of high‐efficiency Hall effect ion sources, which are employed in industries ranging from material surface treatment to spacecraft electric propulsion (known as Hall thrusters). Traditional methods rely on simplified scaling laws and computationally intensive numerical simulations. Herein, a robust machine learning model is introduced that uses a neural network ensemble to predict the performance of Hall effect ion sources based on design parameters such as discharge channel dimensions and magnetic field structure. The neural networks are trained using 18 000 data points generated from numerical simulations with input powers ranging from sub‐kW‐ to kW‐class. The accuracy of the developed machine learning model is demonstrated using untrained 700 W‐ and 1 kW‐class Hall effect ion sources, producing results with deviations of less than 10% compared to the experimentally measured thrust and discharge current, thus surpassing the accuracy of conventional scaling laws. As a high‐fidelity surrogate for numerical simulations, the proposed prediction tool provides high prediction accuracy and calculation speed, offering an excellent complement to conventional scaling laws and enhancing the understanding of Hall effect ion source performance characteristics.
An Offline‐Cascade‐Online Learning‐Based Algorithm for Distal Trajectory Estimation of Medical Continuum Manipulators
Authors: Hao Jianxiong , Zhang Yue , Song Lidong , Zhang Zhingqiang , Shi Chaoyang
Published: December 2024

This work proposes an offline‐cascade‐online (OCO) estimation algorithm, achieving the distal trajectory estimation in unstructured working space and with long‐term visual occlusion. The OCO estimation algorithm cascades a backpropagation (BP)‐based offline learning network and a radial basis function (RBF)‐based online learning network, realizing the prior estimation and error compensation, respectively. The BP network is pretrained offline based on the data collected in free spaces, while the RBF network could be updated online by the least squares method with the historical data in unstructured working spaces to avoid the local optimum problem. Furthermore, a modified loss function consisting of three terms is proposed for the RBF network to improve the estimated distal trajectories’ accuracy, smoothness, and stability in complex unstructured environments. Experimental results indicate that the proposed OCO estimation algorithm achieves a high level of accuracy, with an average relative estimation error of 1.36% in two types of unstructured environments with visual occlusion. Meanwhile, the accuracy of the proposed algorithm is improved by more than 30% in the trajectory estimation of two consecutive loops, demonstrating its outstanding online learning ability. Moreover, experiments on another type of continuum manipulator have also validated its high transferability and strong robustness.
Analyzing Patterns of Skeletal Indicators of Developmental Stress Through the Double Lens of Ontogeny and the Life Course Approach in a Contemporary Reference Sample
Authors: Corron Louise K. , McPherson Cait B. , Hill Ethan C. , O'Donnell Lexi
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Skeletal indicators of developmental stress are commonly used to assess health, disease, and patterns of morbidity and mortality in past populations. Incorporating information about individual life history, such as adverse life events, allows for a more thorough understanding of their etiology. This paper adopts the double lens of ontogeny and the life course to analyze indicators of developmental stress in relation to known individual pathologies and developmental patterns of the cranium, vertebrae, and long bones.

Material and Methods

Six skeletal indicators were collected on CT scans or virtual skeletal reconstructions of 1033 contemporary deceased male and female individuals aged between 0 and 20 years from New Mexico: cribra orbitalia, porotic hyperostosis, Harris lines, stunting, vertebral neural canal diameters, and bone mineral density. Autopsy reports provided information on age, sex, disease type, and duration. Polychoric and polyserial correlations, boxplots, balloon plots, factor analyses of mixed data, and cluster analyses were used to explore patterns among indicators, ontogeny, sex, and disease.

Results

The presence and prevalence of indicators varied depending on age and disease: Harris lines, stunted growth, and cribra orbitalia were common in younger age groups and in cases of long‐term or respiratory illnesses, while porotic hyperostosis was more prevalent in adolescent and young adult males.

Discussion

Skeletal indicators of developmental stress are most likely associated with the timing of adverse life events in relation to the corresponding ontogenetic patterns, developmental sensitivity to stressors, and developmental plasticity/canalization of the different skeletal elements that bear them.
Engineering Modular Peptide Nanoparticles for Ferroptosis‐Enhanced Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Wu Bihan , Yang Xuejiao , Kong Nan , Liang Juan , Li Sangshuang , Wang Huaimin
Published: December 2024

Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) inhibitors are promising for treating tumors but have limited efficacy due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this study, we develop an orchestrated nanoparticle system using modular peptide assemblies, where the co‐assembled sequences are designed for the specific binding to the hydrophobic and hydrophilic domains, guiding the assembly process and enabling the customization of nanoparticle properties. We exploit the modularity of this platform to integrate a hydrophobic ferroptosis precursor, an IDO1 inhibitor, and a hydrophilic peptidic PD−L1 antagonist for optimizing therapeutic outcomes through ferroptosis‐enhanced tumor immunotherapy. The resulting nanoparticles induce immunogenic ferroptosis, enhance the intratumoral function of T lymphocytes, suppress regulatory T cells, and effectively modulate the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, thereby facilitating regression of tumor growth. This work provides a modular peptide‐based nanoparticle engineering strategy and holds significant potential for advancing cancer treatment.
Tailoring the Reprocessability of Thiol‐Ene Networks through Ring Size Effects
Authors: Scholiers Vincent , Fischer Susanne M. , Daelman Bram , Lehner Sandro , Gaan Sabyasachi , Winne Johan M. , Du Prez Filip E.
Published: December 2024

Recycling thermosetting materials presents itself as a major challenge in achieving sustainable material use. Dynamic covalent cross‐linking of polymers has emerged as a viable solution that can combine the structural integrity of thermosetting materials with the (re−)processability of thermoplastics. Thioether linkages between polymer chains are quite common, and their use dates back to the vulcanization of rubbers. While it is known that thioether bonds can be triggered to exchange through transalkylation reactions, this process is usually slow, as thioether moieties not only have to be activated by an alkylating agent, but the activated thioether also has to associate with a second thioether moiety in a classical SN2‐type process. Here, we present the rational design of dynamic polymer networks based on simple dithiol‐based monomers and a fatty acid derived triene. Two neighboring thioethers can undergo a much faster bond exchange reaction, and we found that the exchange dynamics can be further tuned over almost three orders of magnitude by tailoring the distance between two thioether functionalities. This resulted in thioether‐cross‐linked materials that could be processed by extrusion, a continuous reprocessing technique that was previously not accessible for this class of cross‐linked materials, while still exhibiting appealing creep‐resistance below 70 °C.
Hot‐Pressed Polypropylene (PP) Membranes Modified With SiO2 Nanoparticles for Advanced Emulsified Oil/Water Separation
Authors: Yang Lin , Man Shuang , Zhao Nengneng , Li Jiale , Bo Shixuan , Zhang Ming
Published: December 2024

The separation of oil from water, particularly from emulsions, is a critical environmental challenge. Polypropylene (PP), despite its potential as a membrane material for this purpose, faces limitations due to the large pore size of nonwoven fabrics, which hinders its effectiveness in oil/water separation. This study presents an innovative and cost‐effective approach to enhance PP membranes for emulsified oil/water separation through a combination of hot pressing and surface modification using dopamine (DA) and SiO2 nanoparticles. The resulting PP‐DA‐SiO2 membranes demonstrate improved hydrophilicity, with a water contact angle reduced to 26.6° compared to the 133° of the unmodified PP membrane. Moreover, these membranes exhibit exceptional separation performance, achieving a peak emulsion flux of 1382 L · m−2 · h−1 and maintaining a separation efficiency above 98% under gravity. The tensile strength of the modified membrane is also significantly improved, increasing from 2.31 N to 9.01 N. The membrane's antifouling capabilities are also noteworthy, as it retains an emulsion flux of 1032 L · m−2 · h−1 with a 98% separation efficiency after five consecutive cycles. The membrane demonstrates exceptional chemical and mechanical stability following treatments with salt, pH solutions, and rubbing, underscoring its robustness and reliability in various environmental conditions. This work offers a practical and efficient method for fabricating high‐performance oil/water separation membranes, advancing the application potential of PP in environmental remediation technologies.
Molybdenum Trioxide/Poly Vinyl Alcohol Polymer Nanocomposites: An Investigation of Structural, Optical, Mechanical and Photochromic Properties for Application in Smart Windows
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Savita  , Gupta Tripti , Kaur Navneet , Chauhan Rishi Pal , Sharma Annu
Published: December 2024

The current work elucidates the investigation of optical, mechanical and photochromic behavior of molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) reinforced polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (MoO3/PVA) nanocomposites (NCs) under the effect of changing UV exposure time as well as increasing wt% of nanofiller. For synthesizing self‐supporting and flexible MoO3/PVA NCs, solution‐casting technique was employed while MoO3 was synthesized using hydrothermal treatment. X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD) confirms the orthorhombic phase while transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) illustrates the sheet‐like morphology of MoO3. The calculated optical band gap (E

g
) of PVA decreases from 4.83 0.16 eV to 2.77 0.06 whereas the refractive index (n) increases from 1.46 to 2.04 after embedding 10 wt% of MoO3. The young's modulus for PVA was found to increase from 102.33 to 192.68 MPa after incorporation of 10 wt% of nanofiller. The photochromic studies reveal that the maximum optical modulation (relative reflectance % value ~19.08) and maximum coloration efficiency (~0.0916) corresponds to 10 wt% MoO3/PVA NC. Thus, the ability of fabricated NCs to modulate solar light transmittance automatically in response to UV exposure and reduce energy consumption by adjusting the indoor atmosphere makes them a highly sought‐after choice for ‘photochromic smart windows’.
Enhanced Conductivity of Chitosan Composite Membranes With Fractionated Kraft and Organosolv Lignin
Authors: Wolf Mark H. , Izaguirre Nagore , Labidi Jalel , Ribes‐Greus Amparo
Published: December 2024

Different bio‐based chitosan composites containing kraft or organosolv lignin submitted to successive extraction steps (ethyl acetate and then ethanol) are modified by immersion in a sulfuric acid solution to prepare membranes with suitable conductive properties. Characterization with Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), oxidative stability, water uptake studies, electron and proton conductivity assessments, and fuel cell performance tests contribute to understanding the relationship between the composite's structure and their properties. Immersion of the biocomposites in sulfuric acid solution incorporates sulfate groups, which form ionic interactions between the polymer chains. The stability of the modified biocomposites against radical oxidative degradation is improved. The dry biocomposites exhibit low electron conductivities 10−14 and 10−10 S cm−1 between −10°C and 60°C and show their potential to be used as electrical insulators. The sulfuric acid modification also disrupts the crystalline structure and renders the composites more hydrophilic, allowing for greater water absorption. As a result, the proton transport is facilitated, resulting in increased proton conductivity and power output in an H2/O2 fuel cell. Due to the increased affinity between the sulfate groups and the composites containing organosolv lignin fractions, they exhibit better oxidative stability, higher water uptake, and proton conductivity.
Water‐Soluble Supramolecular Polymer With Silver Ion Responsiveness
Authors: Hu Kai , Wang Zhuo , Wang Hu , Li Kanshe
Published: December 2024

A method for constructing a water‐soluble supramolecular polymer responsive to silver ion (Ag+) is achieved through the host–guest interaction between γ‐cyclodextrin (γ‐CD) and bis(phenyl ethenyl)pyridine guest monomer. Upon the addition of silver hexafluorophosphate (AgPF6) into the solution of the supramolecular polymer, precipitates of silver bromide (AgBr) and bis(phenyl ethenyl)pyridine monomer‐PF6 were formed in the solution, leaving only the host molecule γ‐CD. Therefore, the supramolecular polymer can be dissociated by AgPF6. Here, we provide a new strategy to fabricate water‐soluble supramolecular polymer with metal ion responsiveness. This method is expected to be applied in aqueous environments, to enrich the field of supramolecular chemistry and to promote the development of advanced materials with excellent properties.
New benzimidazole–indole–amide derivatives as potent α‐glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
Authors: Naimi Narges , Karimian Somaye , Dastyafteh Navid , Noori Mild , Mohammadi‐Khanaposhtani Maryam , Dadgar Armin , Larijani Bagher , Lotfi Vahid , Çelik İlhami , Aktaş Aydın , Sadeghian Nastaran , Taslimi Parham , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: December 2024

New derivatives 6a–m with benzimidazole–indole–amide scaffold were developed, synthesized, and assessed for potential inhibitory effects on α‐glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). These compounds were synthesized by various amine derivatives. With the exception of two compounds, the α‐glucosidase inhibitory activities of the title derivatives were more than that of the positive control acarbose. Moreover, the anti‐AChE activity of these compounds, with the exception of one compound, was better than that of tacrine (standard inhibitor). The most potent compound against α‐glucosidase was 3‐methylphenyl derivative 6i and the most potent compound against AChE was 3,4‐dimethoxyphenethyl derivative 6m. All the synthesized compounds were placed in the active sites of α‐glucosidase and AChE by in silico docking method and the obtained binding energies were approximately in agreement with the in vitro observed data. Interaction modes of the most potent compounds 6i and 6m demonstrated that these compounds interacted with important residues of their target enzymes. Molecular dynamics simulation was conducted specifically on compound 6i in complex with α‐glucosidase to obtain deeper insights into the behavior of this molecule. Furthermore, in silico pharmacokinetic and toxicity studies on the most potent compound predicted that these compounds have good profiles in terms of oral absorption and toxicity.
Disturbed spatial WNT activation – a potential driver of the reticularized skin phenotype in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc)
Authors: Chenguiti Fakhouri Sara , Zhu Honglin , Li Yi‐Nan , Ronicke Moritz , Rigau Aleix Rius , Dees Clara , Konstantinidis Laura , Schmid Ralf , Matei Alexandru‐Emil , Eckstein Markus , Geppert Carol , Ludolph Ingo , Kreuter Alexander , Sticherling Michael , Berking Carola , Horch Raymund E. , Schett Georg , Distler Jörg H.W. , Bergmann Christina
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Little is known on the mechanisms necessary to maintain the physiological adult human skin integrity. This study aims to quantitatively describe anatomical changes in systemic sclerosis (SSc)‐skin compared to controls and investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Skin morphology was histologically assessed in twenty‐three SSc‐patients, eighteen controls and fifteen patients with hypertrophic scars. Spatial WNT/β‐catenin‐activation was analyzed by RNAscope and immunofluorescence‐staining. Enrichment of reticular marker genes in predefined fibroblast subpopulations was done using Gene Ontology enrichment and gene set enrichment analysis.

Results

SSc‐skin showed a decrease in number (p<0.0001/p=0.0004), area (p<0.0001) and height (p<0.0001) of papillae compared to controls and hypertrophic scars, respectively. The expression of papillary/reticular marker genes shifted towards a reticular expression profile in SSc. On the level of previously defined fibroblast populations, the increase of reticular marker genes was particularly pronounced in the PI16+‐ and SFRP4+‐populations (p<0.0001, respectively). Mechanistically, the expression of the WNT/β‐catenin target AXIN2 and the number of fibroblasts with nuclear β‐catenin‐staining‐pattern increased in the papillary compared to the reticular dermis in healthy skin. This polarization was lost in SSc with a two‐fold increase in β‐catenin‐positive fibroblasts and AXIN2‐expressing fibroblasts throughout the dermis (p=0.0095). Enrichment of genes related to WNT/β‐catenin‐regulation was found in the PI16+‐population that also relocates from the reticular to the papillary dermis in SSc.

Conclusions

We demonstrate an association of the “reticularized” skin phenotype in SSc with a profound loss of physiological spatial WNT/β‐catenin‐activation. Rescuing the spatial WNT/β‐catenin‐activation might help restore the physiological skin organization in future therapeutic approaches of fibrosing disorders.