bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amidoxime‐based Star Polymer Adsorbent with Ultra‐High Uranyl Affinity for Extremely Fast Uranium Extraction from Natural Seawater
Authors: Yi Tan , Cen Zongheng , Ji Yiwei , Huang Junlong , Liang Min , Liu Shaohong
Published: July 2024

Polymer adsorbents functionalized with amidoxime groups are widely considered to have the most industrial potential for uranium extraction from seawater. However, the entanglement upon the collapse of polymer chain in seawater greatly reduces the utilization ratio of amidoxime ligands. Herein, a novel star‐shaped molecular brush adsorbent (β‐CD‐g‐PAO) is obtained by densely grafting polyamidoxime (PAO) chains from β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD). Experimental and theoretical results reveal that, in contrast to conventional linear polymer adsorbents, the star polymer adsorbent with a high grafting density of PAO side chains enables strong steric repulsion between the polymer chains, leading to increased persistence length and disentanglement of side chains. As a result, the star polymer adsorbent shows higher accessibility of the adsorption ligands with lower adsorption energy, achieving an adsorption capacity of up to 944.75 mg g−1 in uranium‐spiked seawater, surpassing that of conventional linear PAO by 3.2 times. Remarkably, this star polymer adsorbent demonstrates an extraordinarily adsorption capacity of 10.9 mg−1 g−1 in only 1 day in natural seawater, coupled with excellent affinity for uranyl ions (K = 0.31 pM). The unique topological structure design provides a new approach to solving the problem of low utilization ratio of functional ligands in polymer adsorbents.
A MOFs‐Derived Hydroxyl‐Functionalized Hybrid Nanoporous Carbon Incorporated Laser‐Scribed Graphene‐Based Multimodal Skin Patch for Perspiration Analysis and Electrocardiogram Monitoring
Authors: Asaduzzaman Md , Faruk Omar , Samad Ahmad Abdus , Kim HongSeok , Reza Md Selim , Lee YeYeong , Park Jae Yeong
Published: July 2024

Although metal‐organic framework (MOF)‐derived nanoporous C (NPC) materials offer several advantages for electrochemical sensor applications, surface functionalization and porosity tuning can affect sensor performance. This study presents the development of a skin patch for perspiration and electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring, leveraging the unique properties of MOF‐on‐MOF‐derived surface‐functionalized hybrid nanoporous C (f‐HNPC) incorporated into laser‐scribed graphene (LSG). Hydroxyl (OH) group‐functionalized NPC, achieved through KOH activation, facilitates electron transport at the electrode–electrolyte interface. This enhances the electrochemical activity, thereby improving sensor sensitivity and expanding the detection range. The integration of f‐HNPC provides enhanced surface area and electrochemical properties, enabling sensitive and selective detection of sweat biomarkers, including glucose (103 µA mM−1 cm−2) and uric acid (184 µA mM−1 cm−2) along with an ultra‐wide glucose detection range (up to 41.5 mM). Moreover, the incorporation of LSG ensures excellent mechanical flexibility, facilitating conformal contact with the skin for reliable signal acquisition. The proposed skin patch demonstrates promising performance in real‐time perspiration analysis and ECG monitoring with a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 23.63 dB, along with high stability and long‐term durability. The synergistic combination of f‐HNPC and LSG shows great potential for developing advanced wearable biosensing platforms for personalized healthcare applications.
Attapulgite‐Reinforced Robust and Ionic Conductive Composite Hydrogels for Digital Light Processing 3D Printing
Authors: Guo Yunlong , Feng Shiwei , Gao Weizi , Cui Jingjing , Lu Zhe , Liang Chen , Liu Fukang , Mao Zhijie , Wang Zhenxiang , Hu Guang , Zhang Biao
Published: July 2024

Ionic conductive hydrogels are widely used in many applications such as electrochemical energy storage, flexible electronic devices, and catalyst transistors due to their excellent ionic conductivity as well as chemical stability. However, the fragile mechanical properties and the lack of shaping methods severely limit their further applications. Herein, an ionic conductive composite hydrogel with reinforced mechanical properties is demonstrated that can be rapidly 3D printed using digital light processing technology. By using both γ‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane moderately modified attapulgite rigid particle and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) semicrystal dual‐network reinforcement, the mechanically robust and highly conductive N,N,N‐trimethylethanaminium‐chloride‐based hydrogels are obtained, demonstrating a 5 times higher tensile strength than the initial one due to the turning and orienting of the attapulgite as well as the robust PVA secondary network. Furthermore, encapsulation strategy is used to avoid the dehydration of hydrogel, and strain sensors that exceed the strain limit of the hydrogel are fabricated through structural design. This work provides a reference for attapulgite‐reinforced hydrogel in biosensing.
Shear‐Rheological‐Assisted MXene Dispersion in Epoxy Resin for Efficient Electromagnetic Absorption
Authors: Liu Zonglin , Zhao Xu , Xue Fuhua , Xu Liangliang , Chen He , Chen Zhong , Yan Qian , Xiong Jinhua , Zheng Haowen , Li Pengyang , Lian Huanxin , Chen Yunxiang , Peng Qingyu , He Xiaodong
Published: July 2024

MXenes, a burgeoning family of 2D materials with high conductivity and large specific surface area, are ideal electromagnetic absorbing materials. However, the ample polar functional groups lead to poor dispersion in the non‐polar matrix, limiting its application in non‐polar‐polymer‐based composites. With the help of the shear rheological properties of SiO2, the conflict is resolved here by directly dispersing MXene aqueous dispersion into the non‐polar resin. Water is locked dynamically through SiO2 nanoparticles among the MXene@SiO2 nanosheets, suppressing MXene's self‐restacking and aggregation in the resin matrix. Therefore, the fabrication of uniform MXene/non‐polar polymer composites is achieved. Meanwhile, this method allows different nanoparticles (Fe3O4, etc.) to be evenly dispersed among the MXene nanosheets to further improve the composites' electromagnetic parameters. The as‐prepared composites achieve remarkable absorbing performance with a low MXene concentration (≤5 wt.‰). The SMEP‐h achieves the maximum reflection loss value of over 60 dB at 12 GHz (at the thickness of 2.15 mm), and the SMEP‐F possesses a broad effective absorbing bandwidth of over 6.18 GHz (at the thickness of 1.75 mm). The shear‐rheological‐assisted MXene dispersion method in the non‐polar matrix paves an avenue for the design of outstanding MXene‐based electromagnetic absorbing composites.
Xeno Nucleic Acids as Functional Materials: From Biophysical Properties to Application
Authors: Bian Tianyuan , Pei Yufeng , Gao Shitao , Zhou Songtao , Sun Xinyu , Dong Mingdong , Song Jie
Published: July 2024

Xeno nucleic acid (XNA) are artificial nucleic acids, in which the chemical composition of the sugar moiety is changed. These modifications impart distinct physical and chemical properties to XNAs, leading to changes in their biological, chemical, and physical stability. Additionally, these alterations influence the binding dynamics of XNAs to their target molecules. Consequently, XNAs find expanded applications as functional materials in diverse fields. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the distinctive biophysical properties exhibited by various modified XNAs and explores their applications as innovative functional materials in expanded fields.
Spin‐Glass States Generated in a van der Waals Magnet by Alkali‐Ion Intercalation
Authors: Khan Safe , Aw Eva S. Y. , Nagle‐Cocco Liam A. V. , Sud Aakanksha , Ghosh Sukanya , Subhan Mohammed K. B. , Xue Zekun , Freeman Charlie , Sagkovits Dimitrios , Gutiérrez‐Llorente Araceli , Verzhbitskiy Ivan , Arroo Daan M. , Zollitsch Christoph W. , Eda Goki , Santos Elton J. G. , Dutton Sian E. , Bramwell Steven T. , Howard Chris A. , Kurebayashi Hidekazu
Published: July 2024

Tuning magnetic properties in layered van der Waals (vdW) materials has captured significant attention due to the efficient control of ground states by heterostructuring and external stimuli. Electron doping by electrostatic gating, interfacial charge transfer, and intercalation is particularly effective in manipulating the exchange and spin‐orbit properties, resulting in a control of Curie temperature (TC) and magnetic anisotropy. Here, an uncharted role of intercalation is discovered to generate magnetic frustration. As a model study, Na atoms are intercalated into the vdW gaps of pristine Cr2Ge2Te6 (CGT) where generated magnetic frustration leads to emerging spin‐glass states coexisting with a ferromagnetic order. A series of dynamic magnetic susceptibility measurements/analysis confirms the formation of magnetic clusters representing slow dynamics with a distribution of relaxation times. The intercalation also modifies other macroscopic physical parameters including the significant enhancement of TC from 66 to 240 K and the switching of magnetic easy‐hard axis direction. This study identifies intercalation as a unique route to generate emerging frustrated spin states in simple vdW crystals.
Solvent Engineering of Thermo‐Responsive Hydrogels Facilitates Strong and Large Contractile Actuations
Authors: Cho Yong Eun , Park Jae‐Man , Song Won Jun , Lee Min‐Gyu , Sun Jeong‐Yun
Published: July 2024

Thermo‐responsive hydrogels can generate the actuation force through volumetric transitions in response to temperature changes. However, their weak mechanical properties and fragile actuation performance limit robust applications. Existing approaches to enhance these properties have typically depended on additional components, leading to an unavoidable interference to the actuation performance. In this work, robust thermo‐responsive hydrogels are fabricated through solvent engineering. A particular solvent, N‐methylformamide, interacts affinitively with the carbonyl group of N‐isopropylacrylamide monomer, solubilizes the monomer with extremely high concentration, stabilizes chain propagation during polymerization, and greatly increases chain lengths and entanglements of the resulting polymer. The synthesized hydrogels are highly elastic, strong, and tough, displaying remarkable thermo‐responsive contractile actuation. The simple synthetic process can broaden its applicability in designing robust functional hydrogel applications.
A Generalized Coordination Engineering Strategy for Single‐Atom Catalysts toward Efficient Hydrogen Peroxide Electrosynthesis
Authors: Liu Wei , Chen Rui , Sang Zhiyuan , Li Zhenxin , Nie Jiahuan , Yin Lichang , Hou Feng , Liang Ji
Published: July 2024

Designing non‐noble metal single‐atom catalysts (M‐SACs) for two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e‐ORR) is attractive for the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) electrosynthesis, in which the coordination configuration of the M‐SACs essentially affects the reaction activity and product selectivity. Though extensively investigated, a generalized coordination engineering strategy has not yet been proposed, which fundamentally hinders the rational design of M‐SACs with optimized catalytic capabilities. Herein, a generalized coordination engineering strategy is proposed for M‐SACs toward H2O2 electrosynthesis via introducing heteroatoms (e.g., oxygen or sulfur atoms) with higher or lower electronegativity than nitrogen atoms into the first sphere of metal‐N4 system to tailor their electronic structure and adjust the adsorption strength for *OOH intermediates, respectively, thus optimizing their electrocatalytic capability for 2e‐ORR. Specifically, the (O, N)‐coordinated Co SAC (Co‐N3O) and (S, N)‐coordinated Ni SAC (Ni‐N3S) are precisely synthesized, and both present superior 2e‐ORR activity (Eonset: ≈0.80 V versus RHE) and selectivity (≈90%) in alkaline conditions compared with conventional Co‐N4 and Ni‐N4 sites. The high H2O2 yield rates of 14.2 and 17.5 moL g−1 h−1 and long‐term stability over 12 h are respectively achieved for Co‐N3O and Ni‐N3S. Such favorable 2e‐ORR pathway of the catalysts is also theoretically confirmed by the kinetics simulations.
3D‐Printed Hydrogel Filter for Biocatalytic CO2Capture
Authors: Zhang Sen , Shen Jialong , Zhang Peiqi , Schroeder Thomas B. H. , Chen Jiahui , Carnevale Casey , Salmon Sonja , Fang Xiaomeng
Published: July 2024

Innovative scalable CO2capture technologies are urgently needed to combat the climate crisis. Reactive absorption in alkaline liquids, an essential process for capturing CO2at atmospheric pressure, requires high gas–liquid contact and fast reaction kinetics. To meet these needs, self‐supporting hydrogel CO2gas–liquid contactors (or simply “CO2filters”) containing the CO2selective catalyst carbonic anhydrase (CA) are developed using the direct ink writing additive manufacturing approach. The multifunctional filters are composed of semi‐interpenetrating polymer network hydrogels (IPNHs) of poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate/poly (ethylene oxide) (PEG‐DA/PEO) upon photocuring during 3D printing. Formulations with PEG‐DA levels of 30–60 wt% are sufficiently homogeneous and reactive to produce coherent grids. Based on operational parameters, a 56 wt% PEG‐DA formulation is selected to continuously print self‐supporting 3D stacked cylindrical grids, with or without enzymes in ink. The resulting enzyme‐laden IPHN filters deliver ≈3 times higher CO2capture efficiency than the no‐enzyme control filters in a laboratory‐scale absorption column test. However, the enhancement effect decreases significantly within 2 d of operation, likely due to burst release of enzymes caused by the flowing solution. Covalent crosslinking of CA near the surface, which can improve durability and CO2capture performance, will be evaluated in future studies.
Electrosorption Mechanism of Zwitterionic Amino Acid Neurotransmitters in Iontronic Devices
Authors: Li Panlong , Tarasova Anna , Slesinski Adam , Bräuniger Yannik , Galek Przemyslaw , Grothe Julia , Kaskel Stefan
Published: July 2024

Neurotransmitters carrying specific chemical information play a key role in the nervous system, which inspires ion‐based devices to mimic biological functions of nervous system, including sensing, transduction, and computing. In this work, the interaction mechanism of zwitterionic amino acids, glycine (Gly), and gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) (two common inhibitory neurotransmitters) are analyzed with porous carbon electrodes. The charge balance of these zwitterionic neurotransmitters relies on zwitterion protonation in the vicinity of the negative electrodes (produced cations adsorbed by the negative electrode) and deprotonation near the positive electrode (produced anions to balance the positive charges) as demonstrated based on the theoretical dissociation analyses and local pH measurements. Additionally, electrosorption‐induced concentration changes of Gly and GABA in aqueous solutions and phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) solutions are realized by electrosorption via nanoporous carbon electrodes. Based on this mechanistic understanding, the ionologic functions in printed ionic electrolyte double‐layer transistors are demonstrated. These neurotransmitter‐based iontronic devices hold potential for further organism‐machine interfacing and neuromorphic computing applications.
Digital Photoinduced Topographical Microsculpting of Hydrogels
Authors: Bril Maaike , D'Urso Mirko , Prejanò Mario , Costantini Matteo , Angeloni Livia , Kurniawan Nicholas A.
Published: July 2024

Hydrogels are soft materials widely used as a substrate or matrix for cell culture to mimic the physicochemical, structural, and mechanical properties of the cell's native microenvironment. Recently, a growing body of evidence has shown that substrate topography is a key determinant of cell behavior. These studies, however, mostly rely on the use of hard elastomeric materials, particularly as introducing topography in soft hydrogels is technically challenging, labor intensive, and often does not provide a flexible design space. Here, a new approach is presented that allows robust creation of topographies on hydrogels using a maskless and contactless UV‐sculpting approach. The sculpted topographies are highly programmable: the features can be designed using any digital drawing software, while the dimensions and resolution can be easily tuned via UV exposure dose or photoinitiator concentration. Microscale topographies (2–100 µm in size) can be created on a wide range of hydrogels with diverse chemical characters and mechanical properties (e.g., stiffness). As a proof of concept, this work shows that adherent cells on softer hydrogels align better to topographical cues than on stiffer hydrogels, underlining the importance of studying cell behavior in physiologically more relevant multi‐cue environments.
Partially Ionized Amino Acid Salt Enabling Spatially Vertical n‐Phase Distribution of Quasi‐2D Perovskite for Efficient Deep‐Blue Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Dong Fan , Guo Yangyang , Zhang Xu , Cheng Zeyi , Gao Jialiang , Li Huixin , Wu Jiandong , Qi Heng , Yao Tanxi , Zhang Miao , Xu Yadong , Wang Hongyue , Wang Hongqiang
Published: July 2024

The deep‐blue perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are of essential and indispensable for the application in full‐gamut display. However, the deep blue emission required large bandgap in small n phase exhibits high surface activity that gives rise to the difficulty of n phase distribution control spatially and proportionally in quasi‐2D perovskite films. Here, the deep‐blue pure‐bromide perovskite films is present that exhibit spatially vertical n phase distribution, owing to the partially ionized amino acid salt of 3‐Ammonium propionic acid bromide (3CBr) modulated crystallization kinetic of perovskite. The strong interaction of 3CBr and perovskite lattice improves the stability of small n phases, showing tunable photoluminescence (PL) emission and enhanced PL quantum yield (PLQY). The achieved champion deep blue PeLED shows a maximum EQE of 3.64% at electroluminescence (EL) emission wavelength of 466 nm, locating at the top rank of the similar devices. This work provides an effective strategy to fabricating efficient deep‐blue perovskite films and devices, promoting the development of perovskite‐based application in display.
In Situ Formation of Ultrathin Composite Shell with Strong Water Resistance on the Surface of K2SiF6:Mn4+ via NaClO Treatment
Authors: Wang Tianman , Wang Lin , Gao Weiyue , Ruan Henghuan , Lei Jun , Li Yuelan , Liao Sen , Huang Yingheng
Published: July 2024

Solving the problem of poor weather resistance of Mn4+‐doped fluoride phosphors is pivotal for their application in white‐light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs). This study introduces a one‐step synthesis strategy for the phosphor T‐KSF:Mn (KSF:M = K2SiF6:Mn4+ and T = surface‐treated with NaClO) that involves the use of a NaClO solution as a treatment agent to augment the water resistance of this phosphor. The results of transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction tomography, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, analyses reveal the formation of an ultrathin composite shell (<5 nm) comprising K2SiF6 and KNaSiF6 on the surface of T‐KSF:Mn. The fluorescence intensity of the treated phosphor is 1.09 times that of the untreated phosphor, and its internal quantum efficiency reaches 82.72%. Even after 60 days of testing in a harsh hydrolysis environment, the fluorescence intensity of T‐KSF:Mn remains at 86.24%. At 150 and 200 °C, the integrated fluorescence intensity of T‐KSF:Mn surge to 256.84% and 292.29% of its initial value at 30 °C, respectively, demonstrating a substantial negative thermal quenching (NTQ) effect. Furthermore, the results of aging tests conducted at 85 °C and 85% relative humidity substantiate the effectiveness of the aforementioned strategy in considerably enhancing WLED stability under practical conditions.
Effects of humic acid application on bacterial diversity under maize cultivation
Authors: Santi Mona Ayu , Somboon Saowalak , Thip‐Amat Sukanya , Sukitprapanon Tanabhat‐Sakorn , Lawongsa Phrueksa
Published: July 2024

The fundamental ecosystem processes in soil are regulated by microbial communities, and community diversity is implicated by soil environmental conditions. Humic acid (HA) improves soil quality and fertility, stimulating the microbial environment, but the detailed effects remain poorly understood. We investigated the effects of HA rates on soil bacterial diversity, particularly on species richness and community composition in the rhizosphere of corn (Zea mays). Inorganic fertilizer (T2), HA 0.5% (T3), HA 1.0% (T4), HA 1.5% (T5), and HA 2.0% (T6) were applied in soil. Initial soil (O1) and control after harvesting (T1) were included. A total of 3601 operational taxonomic units were captured from the overall sample, and analysis of 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid amplicon sequencing data indicated that HA did not notably impact species richness. Intriguingly, HA induced changes in bacterial community composition, along with the relative prevalence of specific taxa. Certain associations between soil chemical properties and abundance distribution have been uncovered. Notably, exchangeable Mg2+, Ca2+, and available phosphorus were strongly related to the relative abundance of bacterial phyla. Furthermore, HA potentially shaped the specific bacterial taxa, as the application of HA at different rates had distinct effects on the member of bacterial abundance of each taxon. These findings enhance our understanding of communities potentially being increased or shifted by HA rate addition in short‐term corn cultivation.
Empirical comparison of genomic selection to phenotypic selection for biomass yield of switchgrass
Authors: Tilhou Neal W. , Lee DoKyoung , Ramstein Guillaume P. , Poudel Hari P. , Edme Serge J. , Casler Michael D.
Published: July 2024

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is one of several grass species being bred for use as a biomass crop to support the biofuel industry. Increases in biomass yield are imperative to ensure that crops such as switchgrass can sustainably meet the needs of this industry. Genomic selection is one strategy that can accelerate breeding gains for complex traits such as biomass yield. The goal of this study was to conduct three cycles of genomic selection in a previously trained Liberty switchgrass population and compare that to one cycle of phenotypic selection, both of which required 3 years to complete. The advanced lines were tested across five locations and three hardiness zones in the Central United States using a randomized complete block design with four replicates. There were strong genotype × location interactions, but the first two generations of genomic selection were superior to Liberty at four of the five evaluation locations. Conversely, phenotypic selection failed to result in significant gains in biomass yield for any of the five evaluation locations. Based on these results from Liberty switchgrass, genomic selection methods are expected to at least double the rates of gain in biomass yield relative to previous estimates using phenotypic selection methods.
Disentangling the relationships between denomination of origin regulatory councils activities and Spanish wineries' export performance
Authors: Depetris‐Chauvin Nicolás , Fernández‐Olmos Marta
Published: July 2024

World markets for quality differentiated agri‐food products are highly competitive, presenting significant challenges for firms aiming to compete effectively. Government agencies and business organizations often implement various export promotion policies to address these challenges. This paper explores the role of Denomination of Origin Regulatory Councils in the export activities of Spanish wineries. Hypotheses are developed based on the Resource‐Based View and Institutional‐Based View, considering divergent theoretical predictions. Empirical findings from a comprehensive sample of Spanish wineries across all Denominations of Origin reveal positive associations between wineries' resources and Regulatory Councils' activities with export performance. However, these relationships vary depending on the specific resource or activity. These findings are consistent across different measures of export performance, highlighting the intricate relationships between institutions like Regulatory Councils and the internationalization of member firms.
The disposability and inclusion of Brown bodies
Authors: Agarwal Sabrina C.
Published: July 2024

While there has been increased awareness of the ethics of curation, research, and teaching with human skeletal remains, there has been little recognition of the millions of skeletal remains from South Asia that were harvested illegally and/or unethically for educational institutions globally for over a century. This article gives a contextualization of the unique history and nature of anatomical teaching collections, and why they are an important locus for a decolonized and antiracist biological anthropology. I present the historical background of how the exportation and commodification of Indian bodies came to dominate the global bone trade. I also discuss how historical necropolitics explicitly erased the identity and objectified South Asian people made into study skeletons, and the way our current practices continue to uphold colonial violence. Finally, I discuss what we might do with these historical collections and the ways that inclusion of Brown voices is critical to ethical practice.
Insufficient evidence for an association between iatrogenic Alzheimer's disease and cadaveric pituitary‐derived growth hormone
Authors: Nath Avi , Holtzman David M. , Miller Bruce L. , Grinberg Lea T. , Leschek Ellen Werber
Published: July 2024

A Nature Medicine paper published in January 2024 describes eight cases of iatrogenic Alzheimer's disease in individuals who received cadaveric pituitary‐derived human growth hormone. The paper's conclusions argue for the transmissibility of Alzheimer's disease, which, if true, would create a significant public health crisis. For example, neurosurgical practices would require substantial revision, and many individuals who have undergone neurosurgical procedures would now be at considerable risk of Alzheimer's disease. A detailed review of the presented cases reveals that they do not have Alzheimer's disease, and there are alternative explanations for the cognitive decline described. In people with progressive cognitive decline, the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease requires a demonstration of amyloid and tau pathology or amyloid and tau biomarkers. Extensive tau pathology is not demonstrated, and some also lack amyloid beta pathology. The cases described in this paper do not meet the criteria for dementia due to Alzheimer's disease by clinical and pathological standards.

Highlights

Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease has been transmitted by cadaveric growth hormone.

There is no evidence for the transmission of Alzheimer's disease by cadaveric growth hormone.

There is no evidence that Alzheimer's disease is transmissible.
Thermoelectric Response in Nodal‐Point Semimetals
Authors: Mandal Ipsita , Saha Kush
Published: July 2024

In this review, the thermoelectric properties in nodal‐point semimetals with two bands are discussed. For the two‐dimensional (2D) cases, it is shown that the expressions of the thermoelectric coefficients take different values depending on the nature of the scattering mechanism responsible for transport, by considering examples of short‐ranged disorder potential and screened charged impurities. An anisotropy in the energy dispersion spectrum invariably affects the thermopower quite significantly, as illustrated by the results for a node of semi‐Dirac semimetal and a single valley of graphene. The scenario when a magnetic field of magnitude is applied perpendicular to the plane of the 2D semimetal is also considered. The computations for the three‐dimensional (3D) cases necessarily involve the inclusion of nontrivial Berry phase effects. In addition to demonstrating the expressions for the response tensors, the exotic behavior observed in planar Hall and planar thermal Hall set‐ups is discussed.
DNA Logical Computing on a Transistor for Cancer Molecular Diagnosis
Authors: Kong Derong , Zhang Shen , Ma Xinye , Yang Yuetong , Dai Changhao , Geng Li , Liu Yunqi , Wei Dacheng
Published: July 2024

Given the high degree of variability and complexity of cancer, precise monitoring and logical analysis of different nucleic acid markers are crucial for improving diagnostic precision and patient survival rates. However, existing molecular diagnostic methods normally suffer from high cost, cumbersome procedures, dependence on specialized equipment and the requirement of in‐depth expertise in data analysis, failing to analyze multiple cancer‐associated nucleic acid markers and provide immediate results in a point‐of‐care manner. Herein, we demonstrate a transistor‐based DNA molecular computing (TDMC) platform that enables simultaneous detection and logical analysis of multiple microRNA (miRNA) markers on a single transistor. TDMC can perform not only basic logical operations such as “AND” and “OR”, but also complex cascading computing, opening up new dimensions for multi‐index logical analysis. Owing to the high efficiency, sensing and computations of multi‐analytes can be operated on a transistor at a concentration as low as 2×10−16 M, reaching the lowest concentration for DNA molecular computing. Thus, TDMC achieves an accuracy of 98.4 % in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma from 62 serum samples. As a convenient and accurate platform, TDMC holds promise for applications in “one‐stop” personalized medicine.
Breaking the Passivation Effect for MnO2 Catalysts in Li−S Batteries by Anion‐Cation Doping
Authors: Jiang Qingbin , Xu Huifang , Hui Kwan San , Ye Zhengqing , Zha Chenyang , Lin Zhan , Zheng Mengting , Lu Jun , Hui Kwun Nam
Published: July 2024

Transition metal oxides (TMOs) are recognized as high‐efficiency electrocatalyst systems for restraining the shuttle effect in lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) batteries, owing to their robust adsorption capabilities for polysulfides. However, the sluggish catalytic conversion of Li2S redox and severe passivation effect of TMOs exacerbate polysulfide shuttling and reduce the cyclability of Li−S batteries, which significantly hinders the development of TMOs electrocatalysts. Here, through the anion‐cation doping approach, dual incorporation of phosphorus and molybdenum into MnO2 (P,Mo‐MnO2) was engineered, demonstrating effective mitigation of the passivation effect and allowing for the simultaneous immobilization of polysulfides and rapid redox kinetics of Li2S. Both experimental and theoretical investigations reveal the pivotal role of dopants in fine‐tuning the d‐band center and optimizing the electronic structure of MnO2. Furthermore, this well‐designed configuration processes catalytic selectivity. Specifically, P‐doping expedites rapid Li2S nucleation kinetics by minimizing reaction‐free energy, while Mo‐doping facilitates robust Li2S dissolution kinetics by mitigating decomposition barriers. This dual‐doping approach equips P,Mo‐MnO2 with robust bi‐directional catalytic activity, effectively overcoming passivation effect and suppressing the notorious shuttle effect. Consequently, Li−S batteries incorporating P,Mo‐MnO2‐based separators demonstrate favorable performance than pristine TMOs. This design offers rational viewpoint for the development of catalytic materials with superior bi‐directional sulfur electrocatalytic in Li−S batteries.
Dissolution‐Recrystallization: A Novel Mechanism for Fluorochromic Detection of Th4+ Using Color‐Tunable Luminescent Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Cui Yunyi , Lu Huangjie , Hou Huiliang , Bai Yaoyao , Yang Junpu , Li Yarui , Qiu Jie , Wang Shuao , Lin Jian
Published: July 2024

Thorium, a predominant actinide in the Earth's crust, presents significant environmental and health risks due to its radioactive nature. These risks are particularly pronounced during the mining and processing of monazite for rare earth elements (REEs), which contain substantial thorium concentrations. Current instrumental analysis methods for thorium, offer high accuracy but require laborious sample preparations and expensive instruments, making them unsuitable for on‐site analysis. Herein, we present a class of color‐tunable luminescent lanthanide‐based metal–organic frameworks (Ln‐MOFs) as fluorochromic sensors for Th4+ cations. Utilizing a heterobimetallic Eu3+/Tb3+ doping strategy, the luminescence colors of EuxTb1‐x‐BDC‐OH can be finely tuned from red, to orange, and to green. More intriguingly, the higher Lewis acidity of Th4+ facilitates the transformation of EuxTb1‐x‐BDC‐OH into a UiO‐type Th‐MOF via a dissolution‐recrystallization mechanism. This process results in a gradual reduction of characteristic Ln3+ emissions and the emergence of blue color ligand‐based fluorescence, thereby leading to selective fluorochromic responses with increasing Th4+ concentrations and enabling visible detection of Th4+ cations. Additionally, a custom‐built portable optoelectronic device is fabricated, which directly converts luminescence colors into red‐green‐blue (RGB) values. This device enables easy quantification of Th4+ concentrations without the need for complex instrumentation.
Extremely Active and Robust Ir−Mn Dual‐Atom Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reaction by Oxygen‐Oxygen Radical Coupling Mechanism
Authors: Liu Wenbo , Long Guifa , Xiang Zhipeng , Ren Tianlu , Piao Jinhua , Wan Kai , Fu Zhiyong , Liang Zhenxing
Published: July 2024

A novel Ir−Mn dual‐atom electrocatalyst is synthesized by a facile ion‐exchange method by incorporating Ir in SrMnO3, which yields an extremely high activity and stability for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The ion exchange process occurs in a self‐limitation way, which favors the formation of Ir−Mn dual‐atom in the IrMnO9 unit. The incorporation of Ir modulates the electronic structure of both Ir and Mn, thereby resulting in a shorter distance of the Ir−Mn dual‐atom (2.41 Å) than the Mn−Mn dual‐atom (2.49 Å). The modulated Ir−Mn dual‐atom enables the same spin direction O (↑) of the adsorbed *O intermediates, thus facilitating the direct coupling of the two adsorbed *O intermediates to release O2 via the oxygen‐oxygen radical coupling mechanism. Electrochemical tests reveal that the Ir‐SrMnO3 exhibits a superior OER's activity with a low overpotential of 207 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and achieves a mass specific activity of 1100 A gIr−1 at 1.5 V. The proton‐exchange‐membrane water electrolyzer with the Ir‐SrMnO3 catalyst exhibits a low electrolysis voltage of 1.63 V at 1.0 A cm−2 and a stable 2000‐h operation with a decay of only 15 μV h−1 at 0.5 A cm−2.
DNA Tetrahedra as Functional Nanostructures: From Basic Principles to Applications
Authors: Ouyang Yu , Zhang Pu , Willner Itamar
Published: July 2024

Self‐assembled supramolecular DNA tetrahedra composed of programmed sequence‐engineered complementary base‐paired strands represent elusive nanostructures having key contributions to the development and diverse applications of DNA nanotechnology. By appropriate engineering of the strands, DNA tetrahedra of tuneable sizes and chemical functionalities were designed. Programmed functionalities for diverse applications were integrated into tetrahedra structures including sequence‐specific recognition strands (aptamers), catalytic DNAzymes, nanoparticles, proteins, or fluorophore. The article presents a comprehensive review addressing methods to assemble and characterize the DNA tetrahedra nanostructures, and diverse applications of DNA tetrahedra framework are discussed. Topics being addressed include the application of structurally functionalized DNA tetrahedra nanostructure for the assembly of diverse optical or electrochemical sensing platforms and functionalized intracellular sensing and imaging modules. In addition, the triggered reconfiguration of DNA tetrahedra nanostructures and dynamic networks and circuits emulating biological transformations are introduced. Moreover, the functionalization of DNA tetrahedra frameworks with nanoparticles provides building units for the assembly of optical devices and for the programmed crystallization of nanoparticle superlattices. Finally, diverse applications of DNA tetrahedra in the field of nanomedicine are addressed. These include the DNA tetrahedra‐assisted permeation of nanocarriers into cells for imaging, controlled drug release, active chemodynamic/photodynamic treatment of target tissues, and regenerative medicine.
MXene Supported Electrodeposition Engineering of Layer Double Hydroxide for Alkaline Zinc Batteries
Authors: Chen Ze , Zhu Jiaxiong , Yang Shuo , Wei Zhiquan , Wang Yiqiao , Chen Ao , Huang Zhaodong , Zhi Chunyi
Published: July 2024

The main challenges faced by aqueous rechargeable nickel‐zinc batteries are their comparatively low energy density and poor cycling stability, mainly due to the limited capacity and reversibility of existing Ni‐based cathodes. Moreover, the preparation procedures of these cathodes are complex and not easily scalable, which makes them less promising for large‐scale energy storage. Herein, we utilized MXene as a functional additive to effectively improve the electrodeposition preparation of NiCo layered double hydroxides (LDH). Benefiting from the improved interfacial contact between nickel foam (NF) and platting solution and the enhanced ionic conductivity of platting product based on MXene additives, the resulting binder‐free NiCo LDH electrode can achieve ultrahigh areal loading (~65 mg cm−2) with abundant active surface for redox reactions and maintained short transport pathway for ion diffusion and charge transfer. Furthermore, the as‐fabricated alkaline NiCo LDH‐based battery delivers high discharge capacity, up to 20.2 mAh cm−2 (311 mAh g−1), accompanied by remarkable rate performance (9.6 mAh cm−2 or 148 mAh g−1 at 120 mA cm−2). Due to the high structural and chemical stability of MXenes/LDH‐based electrode, excellent cycling life can also be achieved with 88.6 % capacity retention after 10000 cycles. In addition, ultrahigh areal energy density (31.2 mWh cm−2) and gravimetric energy density (465 Wh kg−1) can be simultaneously achieved. This work has inspired the design of advanced cathode materials to develop high‐performance aqueous zinc batteries.
Transforming Zinc‐Ion Batteries with DTPA‐Na: A Synergistic SEI and CEI Engineering Approach for Exceptional Cycling Stability and Self‐Discharge Inhibition
Authors: Huang Yongfeng , Yan Hao , Liu Wenbao , Kang Feiyu
Published: July 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) hold immense potential for large‐scale energy storage, but their practical implementation faces significant challenges related to the zinc anode, including dendrite formation, corrosion, and hydrogen evolution. This study addresses these challenges by introducing diethylenetriamine pentaacetate sodium salt (DTPA‐Na) as a novel electrolyte additive. DTPA‐Na exhibits a unique dual functionality, enabling the formation of a robust, multi‐layered solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on the zinc anode and a stable cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) on the MnOOH cathode. The engineered SEI effectively suppresses interfacial side reactions, facilitates uniform zinc deposition, and mitigates dendrite growth, while the CEI inhibits MnOOH dissolution and detrimental cathode side reactions. This synergistic SEI/CEI engineering approach significantly enhances ZIB performance, achieving remarkable cycling stability and self‐discharge inhibition, as evidenced by the extended lifespan of Zn||Zn symmetrical cells (4400 hours at 0.5 mA/cm2) and the exceptional capacity retention of Zn||MnOOH full cells after prolonged rest (98.61 % after 720 hours).
Self‐Assembly of an Unlikely Occurring Quadrangular Tube by Modulating Intramolecular Forces
Authors: Ge Chenqi , Cao Ze , Feng Tinglong , Wu Yating , Xiao Mingrui , Tang Hua , Wang Kun , Wang Linjun , Li Hao
Published: July 2024

One of the central focuses in self‐assembly is precisely controlling the self‐assembly pathway so that the target molecules can be produced exclusively. Trans‐1,2‐cyclohexanediamine contains two amino units that form a 60° angle when projected on a plane. This angle naturally favors the formation of triangular products in most cases when trans‐1,2‐cyclohexanediamine is used as a bisamino building block in the synthesis of macrocycles and tubes. Here, we synthesized a slightly bent tetraformyl precursor bearing a central dibenzothiophene moiety, whose 3,7‐positions are functionalized with two m‐phthalaldehyde units. We observed that combining this tetraformyl building block with trans‐1,2‐cyclohexanediamine yielded a quadrangular tube when the concentrations of the precursors were relatively high. Both experimental measurements and theoretical calculations indicate that the formation of this unlikely occurring quadrangular product was driven by the intramolecular C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions between the dibenzothiophene building blocks within the tube framework. This driving force, however, was disturbed in the triangular tube, a smaller counterpart whose formation was considered previously much more thermodynamically favored. These results improved our fundamental understanding on how to create those products whose syntheses are considered difficult or impossible, by modulating the intramolecular driving forces.
Ultraviolet Nonlinear Optical Single Crystals of A Three‐Dimensional Chiral Covalent Framework Containing Te−O−B−O Bonds
Authors: Xue Miaomiao , Zhang Lei , Meng Xin , Yang Jinglun , He Yanping , Lee Chun‐Sing , Zhang Jian , Zhang Qichun
Published: July 2024

Extending covalent organic frameworks (COFs) into crystalline carbon‐free covalent backbones is an important strategy to endow these materials with more exotic functions. Integrating metal‐free inorganic and organic components into one covalent framework is an effective way to address the issue of poor thermal/solvent stability in the field of nonlinear optics (NLO). However, constructing such structures is very challenging. Here, we linked 3‐connected nods (BO3) and 2‐connected organic building blocks (Te(Ph)2) together to produce colorless single crystals (size up to 400 μm) of a three‐dimensional (3D) chiral covalent framework (CityU‐22). The single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) analysis reveals that CityU‐22 has a non‐carbon Te−O−B−O bond‐based network with the srs topology. The chiral CityU‐22 displays good stability under the treatment of different common solvents or heat (the decomposition temperature above 300 °C). Due to its non‐π‐conjugated backbone (−Te−O−B−O−), CityU‐22 shows an ultraviolet NLO behavior with a second‐harmonic generation (SHG) response similar to KH2PO4 (KDP).
Numerical simulation on the pressure, turbulence, and λ2 vortex characteristics within the annular symmetric jet process under different vacuum degrees
Authors: Chai Xinjie , Hu Yuxi , Gao Lishan , Qiu Facheng , Cheng Zhiliang
Published: July 2024

The jet impingement flash technology represents a paramount research subject in the domain of heat and mass transfer. To augment its commercial potential, the conjunction of annular multi‐aperture jet impingement with negative pressure flash evaporation is introduced in this study. The employment of an annular nozzle array is integral to the enhancement of the heat and mass transfer efficiency between the phases. The Realizable k‐ε model is used in this study. The negative pressure flash vaporization model was also developed by introducing a mass source term and an energy source term based on the Mixture model. The flow characteristics are characterized using numerical simulation. Additionally, the λ2 vortex identification criterion is investigated the vortex structure. The simulation results exhibit good agreement with experimental findings, demonstrating that a higher initial vacuum leads to a stronger flashing effect and a more chaotic movement of the flow group within the flow field. Thus, this study provides a reference method for the structural design and optimization of annular symmetric jet impingement negative pressure deammonia chemical equipment for engineering applications.
Ferulic acid and human platelet lysate incorporated alginate dialdehyde‐gelatin 3D (bio)printable hydrogels with biological activity
Authors: Bider Faina , Klotschan Artem , Kuth Sonja , Weisbach Volker , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the creation of multifunctional scaffolds based on alginate dialdehyde (ADA) and gelatin (GEL) incorporating ferulic acid (FA), a phytotherapeutic agent with diverse pharmacological properties, and human platelet lysate (HPL). The multimaterial hydrogels were characterized in terms of degradation/swelling behavior showing that HPL decelerates the degradation process of ADA‐GEL hydrogels in absence of FA. A FA release study confirmed that the presence of HPL does not affect the FA release ability of ADA‐GEL hydrogel. A trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) assay confirmed no influence of HPL on the Schiff's base formation. The addition of HPL was shown to lead to a decrease in stiffness, mechanical stability, and viscosity of ADA‐GEL‐HPL inks. This effect was also observed for ADA‐GEL‐HPL inks when investigating their three‐dimensional (3D) printing ability. Cytocompatibility tests and a 3D bioprinting study confirmed the beneficial impact of the addition of HPL on MC3T3‐E1 cells. Moreover, an antibacterial effect provided by the addition of FA was confirmed while the incorporation of HPL led to higher VEGF‐A expression by MC3T3‐E1 cells. Overall, the addition of HPL and FA to ADA‐GEL hydrogel results in a promising ink, which has potential for future biofabrication applications.
Incorporation of polydopamine functionalized as double‐sided adhesive to connect phosphotungstic acid in Friedel‐Crafts cross‐linked SPEEK sulfonated poly(ether eether ketone) as proton exchange membranes
Authors: Yao Zi‐Ying , Ayaz Sher , Yin Xin‐Miao , Yu Hai‐Yin
Published: July 2024

Using highly sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) as the base material, the structure and properties of poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) membranes are optimized by precisely controlling the doping of phosphotungstic acid (HPW), dopamine (DA), and various amounts of carbon nanomaterials. Compared with conventional PEEK membranes, this optimized membrane exhibits higher proton conductivity, lower water absorption swelling rate, and excellent thermal stability. Highly SPEEK is soluble in water, thus fails to be used in fuel cell applications. Herein, we conduct Friedel‐Crafts method to obtain cross‐linked highly sulfonated membrane with controlled water uptake and swelling while still maintaining high proton conductivity. The polymer is then doped with phosphotungstic acid (HPW) to acquire enhanced performance. To control HPW leakage, polydopamine (PDA) acting as double‐sided adhesive is incorporated within the membrane. By distributing 1 wt.% PDA, the HPW leakage is reduced almost three times. The composite C‐SPEEK/HPWx/PDAy membranes have exhibited excellent overall performance. Specifically, the best proton conductivity result of C‐SPEEK/HPW50 has reached 0.271 S/cm. Moreover, it has presented superb performance in H2/O2 single cell test recorded as power density of 886.13 mW/cm2 while current density is 1614.20 mA/cm2 at 60°C.