bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Q‐Factor Polymer Microring Resonators Realized by Versatile Damascene Soft Nanoimprinting Lithography
Authors: Lin Wei‐Kuan , Liu Shuai , Lee Sungho , Zhang Zhesheng , Wang Xueding , Xu Guan , Guo L. Jay
Published: January 2024

High‐quality‐factor microring resonators are highly desirable in many applications. Fabricating a microring resonator typically requires delicate instruments to ensure a smooth side wall of waveguides and 100‐nm critical feature size in the coupling region. In this work, a new method “damascene soft nanoimprinting lithography” is demonstrated that can create high‐fidelity waveguide by simply backfilling an imprinted cladding template with a high refractive index polymer core. This method can easily realize high Q‐factor polymer microring resonators (e.g., ≈5 × 105 around 770 nm wavelength) without the use of any expensive instruments and can be conducted in a normal lab environment. The high Q‐factors can be attributed to the residual layer‐free feature and controllable meniscus cross‐section profile of the filled polymer core. Furthermore, the new method is compatible with different polymers, yields low fabrication defects, enables new functionalities, and allows flexible substrate. These benefits can broaden the applicability of the fabricated microring resonator.
Nanocrystalline Lead Halide Perovskites to Boost Time‐of‐Flight Performance of Medical Imaging Detectors
Authors: Pagano Fiammetta , Král Jan , Děcká Kateřina , Pizzichemi Marco , Mihóková Eva , Čuba Václav , Auffray Etiennette
Published: January 2024

Time‐of‐flight (TOF) technique, traditionally used in high energy physics (HEP) and positron emission tomography (PET), is now being explored for lower energy applications like computed tomography (CT). Regardless of the application, pushing the current boundaries in time resolution calls for novel technologies and materials exhibiting ultra‐fast time response. Semiconductor nanocrystals like cesium lead halide perovskites (CsPbBr3), benefiting from quantum confinement effects, feature ultra‐fast decay and, when combined with a suitable bulk scintillator following a heterostructure concept, can also provide the necessary stopping power. In this work, thin films of CsPbBr3 on top of BGO, LYSO:Ce, and GAGG:Ce,Mg wafers are fabricated to test their impact on the single crystal scintillator time resolution under soft X‐rays excitation (about 10 keV). It is demonstrated that the CsPbBr3 layer significantly improves the overall time resolution in all cases, achieving up to a tenfold improvement with BGO and GAGG:Ce,Mg. Under 511 keV γ‐rays, a proof‐of‐concept of the heterostructure design for TOF‐PET using CsPbBr3 thin film deposited on GAGG:Ce,Mg bulk crystal is successfully tested. Shared events depositing energy in both materials are identified, resulting in more than twofold improved coincidence time resolution: 118 ± 4 ps full‐width‐at‐half‐maximum (FWHM) compared to the 272 ± 8 ps of solely GAGG:Ce,Mg.
Ice‐Bridging Frustration by Self‐Ejection of Single Droplets Results in Superior Anti‐Frosting Surfaces
Authors: Di Novo Nicolò G. , Bagolini Alvise , Pugno Nicola M.
Published: January 2024

Surfaces capable of delaying the frosting passively and facilitating its removal are highly desirable in fields where ice introduces inefficiencies and risks. Coalescence‐induced condensation droplets jumping (CICDJ), enabled on highly hydrophobic surfaces, is already exploited to slow down the frosting but it is insufficient to completely eliminate the propagation by ice‐bridging. The study shows here how the self‐ejection of single condensation droplets can fully frustrate all the ice bridges, resulting in a frost velocity lower than 0.5 µm s−1 and thus falling below the current limits of passive surfaces. Arrays of truncated microcones, covered by uniformly hydrophobic nanostructures, enable individual condensation droplets to grow and self‐propel toward the top of the microstructures and then to self‐eject once a precise volume is reached. The independency of self‐ejection on the neighbor droplets allows a fine control of the droplets size and distance distributions and thus the ice‐bridging frustration. The truncated microcones with the smallest heads area fraction maximize the percentage of self‐ejecting droplets and minimize the frost velocity. The ice bridges frustration also implies a small frost area coverage, highly desirable in aeronautics and thermal machines.
Pattern Formation in Confined Core‐Shell Structures: Stiffness, Curvature, and Hierarchical Wrinkling
Authors: Kim Ji Hoon , Bae Jung Gun , Yoon Hyunsik , Lee Won Bo
Published: January 2024

Adapting sheets to doubly curved surfaces is a longstanding challenge in various engineering disciplines, from flexible and stretchable electronics to the automotive industry. However, current understanding often focuses on specific scenarios and neglects the diverse range of substrate conditions encountered in nature. This study investigates the pattern formation in confined core‐shell structures by modulating the levels of stiffness and curvature of the substrate. Beginning with the Föppl–von Kármán equation, this theory uncovers how the degree of confinement determines the location of wrinkles within confined sheets. Furthermore, the synchronization of patterns is observed: the formation of dimple or buckyball patterns on curved surfaces simultaneously with hierarchical wrinkles due to boundary constraints. The analytical models elucidate these phenomena, and both macroscopic and microscopic features can be systematically engineered to align with quantitative predictions. This research expands the current understanding of the sheet conformation problem and paves the way for pattern engineering across a range of curved structures.
Toward Sustainable Haptics: A Wearable Vibrotactile Solar‐Powered System with Biodegradable Components
Authors: Arbaud Robin , Najafi Maedeh , Gandarias Juan M. , Lorenzini Marta , Paul Uttam C. , Zych Arkadiusz , Athanassiou Athanassia , Cataldi Pietro , Ajoudani Arash
Published: January 2024

Electronics and mechatronics waste is an exponentially increasing environmental issue, especially for wearable devices, due to their widespread diffusion into society and short life cycle. To promote their enormous benefits (e.g., in assisting visually impaired individuals) in a sustainable way, biobased and/or biodegradable organic materials should be used instead of traditional components. This manuscript presents a multidisciplinary approach, which bridges materials science and mechatronics, to propose the first ECO‐friendly wearable vibroTACtile device (Eco‐Tac). The design of Eco‐Tac includes integration on a cotton t‐shirt through a novel biodegradable conductive ink forming electrical tracks, a flexible commercially available solar panel, and the vibrotactile haptic device itself. The ink comprises a green solvent, anisole, a soft polybutylene adipate terephthalate biodegradable binder, and conductive nanocarbon materials. The device case is a biodegradable biocomposite. As such, the feasibility of using a sustainable energy source to supply power to the device and the possibility of using biodegradable materials in its manufacturing are demonstrated. An experiment with 20 blindfolded subjects is conducted, reporting the device's potential for assistance in manipulation tasks. Overall, the results of this work represent the first significant step toward the creation of wearable and sustainable haptic devices with green electronics and mechatronics approaches.
Efficient Deep‐Blue Light‐Emitting 2D (100)‐Oriented Perovskites and Spectral Broadening by Exciton Self‐Trapping for White‐light Emissions
Authors: Chang Xuerui , Lin Yufan , Cheng Xiaohua , Han Ying , Cong Li , Lv Longyun , Jia Yuxin , Li Juan , Yin Jun , Cui Bin‐Bin
Published: January 2024

Efficient narrow deep‐blue and broadband emissions in layered 2D organic–inorganic hybrid metal halide perovskites (MHPs) are attracting more attention and need further study. In this work, two (100)‐oriented 2D organic‐inorganic hybrid MHPs of (TFI)2PbBr4 and (TFI)2PbCl4·H2O (TFI = 4‐(trifluoromethyl)‐1H‐imidazole) with efficient deep‐blue and bluish‐white emissions are synthesized and the photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) reached up to 81.21% and 20.23%, respectively. As both intrinsic lattice distortions of two crystals with similar crystal structure are almost negligible, they have theoretical deep‐blue emissions empirically. However, the halogen substitution of chlorine (Cl) by bromine (Br) broadened the deep‐blue photoluminescence to a bluish‐white area. Here, the spectral broadening phenomenon is discussed in detail. The (TFI)2PbBr4 film shows a narrow emission with a 16 nm full width at half maximum (FWHM) peaking at 435 nm upon excitation, and an ultraviolet‐pumped light‐emitting diode (LED) prepared by bluish‐white (TFI)2PbCl4·H2O phosphor shows a color rendering index (CRI) of ≈93 and a related color temperature (CCT) of 4162K, indicating their potential applications in deep‐blue and white LEDs, respectively.
Tunable Nonlinear Optical Properties Based on Metal–Organic Framework Single Crystals
Authors: Yuan Hongye , Xu Xueli , Qiao Zhiwei , Kottilil Dileep , Shi Dongchen , Fan Weidong , Yuan Yi Di , Yu Xin , Babusenan Anu , Zhang Mingming , Ji Wei
Published: January 2024

Solid‐state hybrid materials with designability in topology and tunable photo‐responsiveness hold great promise for multitudinous applications from optoelectronics to information storage/communication. However, the judicious design and synthesis of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with intrinsically custom‐made nonlinear optical (NLO) properties including multiple photon absorption and harmonic generation effects suitable for miniaturized devices remain highly challenging. Herein, the design and synthesis of a novel pillared framework named after Zn‐TCPE‐DPNI MOF coordinated by zinc ions (Zn2+), aggregation induced emission (AIE) featured [1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐carboxylic acid (H4TCPE), and N,N′‐di(4‐pyridyl)‐1,4,5,8‐naphthalenetetracarboxydiimide (DPNI) are reported. The highly ordered Zn‐TCPE‐DPNI MOF single crystal exhibits tunable NLO responses by switching incident excitation wavelengths of a femtosecond laser from 900 to 1500 nm. The noticeable transformation from two‐ or three‐photon excited photoluminescence (2PL or 3PL) to the concurrent occurrence of 3PL and third harmonic generation (THG), and eventually to the mere emergence of THG with a high effective susceptibility χ(3) (3ω) of 2.9 × 10−12 esu is observed. This study paves a novel avenue for the design and synthesis of photoluminescent MOF crystals with tunable NLO responses toward the fabrication of multifunctional NLO devices targeted for optoelectronics and information communication.
Tricolor Upconversion Phosphors of LiYO2:RE3+/Yb3+ (RE = Tm, Ho, Eu) for Metamerism Anti‐Counterfeiting and 3D Volumetric Display
Authors: Zhao Shanshan , Yu Dechao , Li Benchun , Kanwal Saima , Shen Tiantian , Wu Jincheng , Zhuang Songlin , Zhang Dawei
Published: January 2024

The development of blue/green/red tricolor upconversion (UC) phosphors under invisible light irradiation has attracted significant interest in emerging applications such as anti‐counterfeiting, three‐dimensional (3D) optical data storage, and solid‐state 3D displays. In this study, a series of LiYO2:RE3+,Yb3+ (RE = Tm, Ho, Eu) phosphors are successfully prepared via first precipitation process followed by calcination, and completely optimized for efficient tricolor UC luminescence with 980 nm laser excitation. Mechanisms involving two‐ or three‐photon absorption processes and low‐phonon‐energy‐suppressed multi‐phonon relaxation have been proposed for Ho3+(Eu3+)/Yb3+ and Tm3+/Yb3+ codoping, respectively. In addition, the RE3+ (Yb3+) concentration‐induced phase transition of the LiYO2 host is discussed for interesting possibilities in spectral regulation. Based on the broad color gamut achieved by the tricolor UC phosphor mixture, homochromatic and polychromatic metamerisms are experimentally fabricated via screen printing for high‐level anti‐counterfeiting and information security. Moreover, for a proof‐of‐concept demonstration, prototypes of 3D optical data storage and volumetric displays are constructed by embedding tricolor UC mixtures and their 3D printed patterns in polydimethylsiloxane. It is believed that the continuous exploration of tricolor UC under invisible light excitation for metamerism anti‐counterfeiting and 3D displays can promote the development of high‐level information security and advanced volumetric display technologies.
A Universal Strategy for Tuning Afterglow Color In Situ Via Radiative Energy Transfer
Authors: Chen Junru , Xie Zongliang , Shan Yi , Wang Tongtong , Liu Bin
Published: January 2024

Colorful afterglow materials have promising applications in optoelectronic displays. To effectively fine‐tune the afterglow color, an assembly structure that includes UV lamp, persistent room temperature phosphorescence (pRTP) layer, and fluorescent layer (from the bottom to the top) with superimposition of pRTP and fluorescence, is designed. The fluorescence component is emitted from a PMMA film doped with asymmetric 4‐(7‐methoxy‐5,6‐dinitrobenzo[c][1,2,5,]thiadiazol‐4‐yl)‐N,N‐diphenylaniline (TPA‐TD), which has a broad absorption that covers the entire visible region, facilitating effective radiative energy transfer between various pRTP materials and TPA‐TD. Due to its aggregation‐induced‐emission nature, the fluorescence intensity of TPA‐TD enhances with increased doping concentration in PMMA films. Meanwhile, the transmission of TPA‐TD film reduces as the doping concentration increases, which results in a reduction of pRTP intensity through the TPA‐TD film. Therefore, the afterglow color can be fine‐tuned in situ by regulating the ratio of pRTP and fluorescence.
High‐Performance UV Photodetector via Energy Band Engineering and LSPR‐Enhanced Pyro‐Phototronic Effect in Au Decorated 2D‐PbI2/1D‐ZnO Heterojunction
Authors: Zheng Xuemei , Dong Mengji , Li Qi , Liu Yanli , Di Xuan , Lu Xianmao , Meng Jianping , Li Zhou
Published: January 2024

Ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors have attracted extensive attention in various applications, including aerospace, optical communication, and fire warning. However, the intrinsic coupling of high responsivity and fast response as well as imperfect interface transmission impede the further improvement of UV photodetector. Here, a high‐performance Au‐decorated PbI2/ZnO pn junction UV photodetector with a one‐dimensional (1D) and two‐dimensional (2D) interspersed structure is presented. The pyro‐phototronic effect and energy band engineering effect from the localized pn junction generated by the layered p‐type PbI2 nanosheets along the c‐axis of ZnO are coupled to modulate the separation and transport of photogenerated carriers. Furthermore, the localized surface plasmon resonance of Au nanoparticles produces transient thermal power to raise temperature fast to enhance pyroelectric current. The self‐powered Au@PbI2/ZnO photodetector displays a high responsivity of 0.21 A W−1, excellent detectivity of 7.9 × 1012 Jones, and fast response/recovery time of 25/31 ms, under the illumination of 325 nm light with the power density of 0.08 µW cm−2. This work offers an effective strategy for designing high‐performance next‐generation optoelectronic devices.
Recent Advances in the Use of 2‐Aminobenzyl Alcohols in the Synthesis of Quinolines, Quinazolines and Other N‐Heterocycles
Authors: Doraghi Fatemeh , Gilaninezhad Farzad , Karimian Somaye , Mahdavian Amir Mohammad , Larijani Bagher , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: January 2024

N‐Heterocyclic compounds, in particular, quinolines and quinazolines are frequently used in medicinal chemistry. Therefore, the direct and clean synthesis of these valuable scaffolds has been a great interest for many years. 2‐Aminobenzyl alcohols as an alternative reactant instead of unstable and expensive 2‐aminobenzaldehydes can be used in the construction of N‐fused heterocycles including quinolines, quinazolines, oxazines, thiazines, selenazines, imidazoles, diazepines, etc. In this review article, we have discussed recent developments in the use of 2‐aminobenzyl alcohols in the synthesis of diverse heterocycles.
Aryl Ketone‐Catalyzed Light‐Driven Radical Oxy‐Functionalization of Non‐Acidic C(sp3)−H Bonds Enabled by Triple Role of TEMPO
Authors: Kamijo Shin , Azami Masaya , Kamijo Kaori , Umeno Hina , Ishii Ryo , Murafuji Toshihiro
Published: January 2024

A light‐driven radical oxy‐functionalization of non‐acidic aliphatic and benzylic C(sp3)−H bonds was achieved with 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl (TEMPO) in a single‐step by employing an aryl ketone as a sole catalyst. The transformation was initiated by homolysis of a C(sp3)−H bond in the starting substance by the photo‐excited aryl ketone. The derived carbon radical was then promptly trapped by TEMPO leading to the formation of the TEMPO‐adduct. The derived TEMPO‐adduct is synthetically versatile as an alcohol equivalent since it can be readily converted to the corresponding ketone by oxidation and to the corresponding alcohol by reduction. The key to realizing the present catalytic reaction relies on the distinctive triple role of TEMPO, which acts as the precursor of the oxygen functionality, the oxidant to regenerate the aryl ketone, and the protective group for the derived TEMPO‐adduct from over‐oxidation.
Acid‐Cooperative Transition Metal‐Catalysed Oxygen‐Atom‐Transfer: Ruthenium‐Catalysed C−H Oxygenation
Authors: Doiuchi Daiki , Shimoda Nanako , Okazaki Koushi , Uchida Tatsuya
Published: January 2024

The prospect of developing methods to control the reactivity of metal(oxo) holds appeal for both synthetic and bioinorganic chemistry. In this study, we observed that carboxylic acids enhance reactivity in C−H oxidation by forming hydrogen bonds with the oxo ligand, thereby increasing the basicity and electrophilicity of the oxo intermediate. Additionally, we discovered that H‐dicarboxylate ligands, such as oxalate, malonate, and maleate, significantly improve the catalyst turnover frequency (up to 760/h) in unactivated C(sp3)−H oxidation. Furthermore, the addition of maleic acid was also found to activate Fe and Mn(pdp)‐catalysed C−H oxygenation. Notably, Ru(bpga)(H‐maleate)2 3‐catalyzed C−H functionalization exhibited a broad functional group tolerance, including bromine, hydroxyl, benzoate, nitro, nitryl, sulfonate, imide, sulfonylamide, and carbamate, yielding up to 98% in a site‐ and chemoselective manner with only 0.1–2.0 mmol% loading.
Protein Kinase STK24 Promotes Tumor Immune Evasion via the AKT‐PD‐L1 Axis
Authors: Wang Ning , Jiang Yu , Li Mengjie , Wang Haofei , Pan Jie , Tang Yang , Xie Shaofang , Xu Yunyang , Li Xu , Zhou Xuefei , Xu Pinglong , Lin Wenlong , Wang Xiaojian
Published: January 2024

Immunotherapy targeting PD‐L1 is still ineffective for a wide variety of tumors with high unpredictability. Deploying combined immunotherapy with alternative targeting is practical to overcome this therapeutic resistance. Here, the deficiency of serine‐threonine kinase STK24 is observed in tumor cells causing substantial attenuation of tumor growth in murine syngeneic models, a process relying on cytotoxic CD8+ T and NK cells. Mechanistically, STK24 in tumor cells associates with and directly phosphorylates AKT at Thr21, which promotes AKT activation and subsequent PD‐L1 induction. Deletion or inhibition of STK24, by contrast, blocks IFN‐γ‐mediated PD‐L1 expression. Various murine models indicate that in vivo silencing of STK24 can significantly enhance the efficacy of the anti‐PD‐1 blockade strategy. Elevated STK24 levels are observed in patient specimens in multiple tumor types and inversely correlated with intratumoral infiltration of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and with patient survival. The study collectively identifies STK24 as a critical modulator of antitumor immunity, which engages in AKT and PD‐L1/PD‐1 signaling and is a promising target for combined immunotherapy.
Tailoring Magnetic Anisotropy in Ultrathin Cobalt by Surface Carbon Chemistry
Authors: Brondin Carlo Alberto , Ghosh Sukanya , Debnath Saikat , Genuzio Francesca , Genoni Pietro , Jugovac Matteo , Bonetti Stefano , Binggeli Nadia , Stojić Nataša , Locatelli Andrea , Menteş Tevfik Onur
Published: January 2024

The ability to manipulate magnetic anisotropy is essential for magnetic sensing and storage tools. Surface carbon species offer cost‐effective alternatives to metal‐oxide and noble metal capping layers, inducing perpendicular magnetic anisotropy in ultrathin ferromagnetic films. Here, the different mechanisms by which the magnetism in a few‐layer‐thick Co thin film is modified upon adsorption of carbon monoxide (CO), dispersed carbon, and graphene are elucidated. Using X‐ray microscopy with chemical and magnetic sensitivity, the in‐plane to out‐of‐plane spin reorientation transition in cobalt is monitored during the accumulation of surface carbon up to the formation of graphene. Complementary magneto‐optical measurements show weak perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) at room temperature for dispersed carbon on Co, while graphene‐covered cobalt exhibits a significant out‐of‐plane coercive field. Density‐functional theory (DFT) calculations show that going from CO/Co to C/Co and to graphene/Co, the magnetocrystalline and magnetostatic anisotropies combined promote out‐of‐plane magnetization. Anisotropy energies weakly depend on carbidic species coverage. Instead, the evolution of the carbon chemical state from carbidic to graphitic is accompanied by an exponential increase in the characteristic domain size, controlled by the magnetic anisotropy energy. Beyond providing a basic understanding of the carbon‐ferromagnet interfaces, this study presents a sustainable approach to tailor magnetic anisotropy in ultrathin ferromagnetic films.
Graphene Acetic Acid‐Based Hybrid Supercapacitor and Liquid‐Gated Transistor
Authors: Hensel Rafael C. , Di Vizio Biagio , Montes‐García Verónica , Yang Jijin , Ilie Georgian G. , Sedona Francesco , Sambi Mauro , Samorì Paolo , Cester Andrea , Agnoli Stefano , Casalini Stefano
Published: January 2024

Supercapacitors and transistors are two key devices for future electronics that must combine portability, high performance, easy scalability, etc. Graphene‐related materials (GRMs) are frequently chosen as active materials for these applications given their unique physical properties that are tunable via chemical functionalization. Up to date, among GRMs, only reduced graphene oxide (rGO) showed sufficient versatility and processability in mild media, rendering it suitable for integration in these two types of devices. Here, a sound alternative to rGO is provided, namely graphene acetic acid (GAA), whose physico‐chemical features offer specific advantages. In particular, the use of a GAA‐based cathode in a zinc hybrid supercapacitor (Zn‐HSC) delivers state‐of‐the‐art gravimetric capacitance of ≈400 F g−1at a current density of 0.05 A g−1. Conversely, GAA‐based LGT, supported onto Si/SiO2, shows an ambipolar behavior in 0.1 mNaCl, featuring a clear p‐doping quantified by Dirac voltage higher than 100 mV. Such a device is successfully implemented in paper fluidics, thereby demonstrating the feasibility of real‐time monitoring.
Compositional Transformation and Impurity‐Mediated Optical Transitions in Co‐Evaporated Cu2AgBiI6 Thin Films for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Putland Benjamin W. J. , Righetto Marcello , Jin Heon , Fischer Markus , Ramadan Alexandra J. , Zaininger Karl‐Augustin , Herz Laura M. , Sansom Harry C. , Snaith Henry J.
Published: January 2024

Quaternary copper‐silver‐bismuth‐iodide compounds represent a promising new class of wide‐bandgap (2 eV) semiconductors for photovoltaic and photodetector applications. In this study, vapor phase co‐evaporation is utilized to fabricate Cu2AgBiI6 thin films and photovoltaic devices. The findings show that the properties of vapor‐deposited films are highly dependent upon processing temperature, exhibiting increased pinhole density and transforming into a mixture of quaternary, binary, and metallic phases depending on the post‐deposition annealing temperature. This change in phase is accompanied by an enhancement in photoluminescence (PL) intensity and charge‐carrier lifetime, along with the emergence of an additional absorption peak at high energy (≈3 eV). Generally, increased PL is a desirable property for a solar absorber material, but this change in PL is ascribed to the formation of CuI impurity domains, whose defect‐mediated optical transition dominates the emission properties of the thin film. Via optical pump terahertz probe spectroscopy, it is revealed that CuI impurities hinder charge‐carrier transport in Cu2AgBiI6 thin films. It is also revealed that the predominant performance limitation in Cu2AgBiI6 materials is the short electron‐diffusion length. Overall, the findings pave the way for potential solutions to critical issues in copper‐silver‐bismuth‐iodide materials and indicate strategies to develop environmentally compatible wide‐bandgap semiconductors.
Defective ZnO Nanoplates Supported AuPd Nanoparticles for Efficient Photocatalytic Methane Oxidation to Oxygenates
Authors: Chen Fan , Zhou Huanyu , Liu Dandan , Qin Xin , Jing Yangchi , Chen Lingying , Shi Rui , Liu Yana , Zhang Jiguang , Zhu Yunfeng , Wang Jun
Published: January 2024

Direct photocatalytic methane oxidation into value‐added oxygenates under mild conditions enables the sustainable chemical production but suffers from the lack of active photocatalysts and the overoxidation issue. Herein, defective ZnO nanoplates supported AuPd nanoparticles for efficient methane oxidation with O2 as the oxidant at room temperature are reported. A maximum liquid oxygenates productivity of 152.2 mm g−1 h−1 and a selectivity of 86.7%, more than half of which is CH3OH, are achieved over the optimized AuPd/ZnO photocatalyst, resulting in a 16.5% apparent quantum efficiency at 380 nm. The superior photocatalytic performance is benefited from the synergistic effect between defective ZnO substrate and AuPd cocatalyst, wherein the former facilitates CH4 adsorption, and the latter promotes light absorption, charge separation, as well as O2 activation into the reactive oxygen species. This work provides new guidance for regulating the activity and selectivity of the photocatalyst toward methane oxidation.
Trends in sustainability claims and labels for newly introduced food products across selected European countries
Authors: Nes Kjersti , Antonioli Federico , Ciaian Pavel
Published: January 2024

The European Union (EU) farm‐to‐fork strategy aims to empower consumers to make sustainable food choices, among others, through harmonizing voluntary green claims and labels and potentially introducing a common sustainable claims and labels framework for food products. The literature on the current use of sustainability claims and labels (SCLs) in the EU market is scarce. This paper analyzes the trend developments of SCLs in product launches by food companies across different product groups and countries. The analyses are based on Mintel Global New Product Database on newly introduced products with SCLs, covering 24 food product categories and 19 European countries over the 2005–2021 period. The results show that, on aggregate, across all covered countries and products, the share of product launches with SCLs increased by 2.83% annually from 2005 to 2021. This trend varies greatly among countries, product categories and SCL types. Further, the results show that products covering environmental only SCLs make the highest contribution to the overall sustainability trend (68.2%), followed by products with a combination of both environmental and social SCLs (27.5%), whereas only social SCLs have a minor representation (4.2%). [EconLit Citations: Q18, Q01].
Effects of Deuterium Isotopes on Pt(II) Complexes and Their Impact on Organic NIR Emitters
Authors: Wang Sheng‐Fu , Zhou Dong‐Ying , Kuo Kai‐Hua , Wang Chih‐Hsing , Hung Chieh‐Ming , Yan Jie , Liao Liang‐Sheng , Hung Wen‐Yi , Chi Yun , Chou Pi‐Tai
Published: January 2024

Insight into effect of deuterium isotopes on organic near‐IR (NIR) emitters was explored by the use of self‐assembled Pt(II) complexes H‐3‐f and HPh‐3‐f, and their deuterated analogues D‐3‐f and DPh‐3‐f, respectively (Scheme 2). In vacuum deposited thin film, albeit having nearly identical emission spectral feature maximized at ~810 nm, H‐3‐f and D‐3‐f exhibit remarkable difference in photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 29 % and 50 %, respectively. Distinction in PLQY is also observed for HPh‐3‐f (800 nm, 50 %) and DPh‐3‐f (798 nm, 67 %). We then elucidated the theoretical differences in the impact on near‐infrared (NIR) luminescence between Pt(II) complexes and organic small molecules upon deuteration. The results establish a general guideline for the deuteration on NIR emission efficiency. From a perspective of practical application, NIR OLEDs based on D‐3‐f and DPh‐3‐f emitters attain EQEmax of 15.5 % (radiance 31,287 mW Sr−1 m−2) and 16.6 % (radiance of 32,279 mW Sr−1 m−2) at 764 nm and 796 nm, respectively, both of which set new records for NIR OLEDs of >750 nm.
π‐Extended Diaza[7]helicenes with Dual Negatively Curved Heptagons: Extensive Synthesis and Spontaneous Resolution into Strippable Homochiral Lamellae with Helical Symmetry
Authors: Gan Fuwei , Zhang Guoli , Liang Juncong , Shen Chengshuo , Qiu Huibin
Published: January 2024

We report a unique category of π‐extended diaza[7]helicenes with double negative curvatures. This is achieved by two‐fold regioselective heptagonal cyclization of the oligoarylene‐carbazole precursors through either intramolecular C−H arylation or Scholl reaction. The fusion of two heptagonal rings in the helical skeleton dramatically increases the intramolecular strain and forces the two terminal carbazole moieties to stack in a compressed fashion. The presence of the deformable negatively curved heptagonal rings endows the resulting diaza[7]helicenes with dynamic chiral skeletons, aggregation‐induced emission feature and relatively low racemization barrier of ca. 25.6 kcal mol−1. Further π‐extension on the carbazole moieties subsequently leads to a more sophisticated C2‐symmetric homochiral triple helicene. Notably, these π‐extended diaza[7]helicenes show structure‐dependent stacking upon crystallization, switching from heterochiral packing to intra‐layer homochiral stacking. Interestingly, the C2‐symmetric triple helicene molecules spontaneously resolve into a homochiral lamellar structure with 31 helix symmetry. Upon ultrasonication in a nonsolvent, the crystals can be readily exfoliated into large‐area ultrathin nanosheets with height of ca. 4.4 nm corresponding to two layers of stacked triple helicene molecules and relatively thicker nanosheets constituted by even‐numbered molecular lamellae. Moreover, regular hexagonal thin platelets with size larger than 30 μm can be readily fabricated by flash aggregation.
Template‐Directed Synthesis of Strained meso‐meso‐Linked Porphyrin Nanorings
Authors: Van Raden Jeff M. , Deng Jie‐Ren , Gotfredsen Henrik , Hergenhahn Janko , Clarke Michael , Edmondson Matthew , Hart Jack , O'Shea James N. , Duarte Fernanda , Saywell Alex , Anderson Harry L.
Published: January 2024

Strained macrocycles display interesting properties, such as conformational rigidity, often resulting in enhanced π‐conjugation or enhanced affinity for non‐covalent guest binding, yet they can be difficult to synthesize. Here we use computational modeling to design a template to direct the formation of an 18‐porphyrin nanoring with direct meso‐meso bonds between the porphyrin units. Coupling of a linear 18‐porphyrin oligomer in the presence of this template gives the target nanoring, together with an unexpected 36‐porphyrin ring by‐product. Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) revealed the elliptical conformations and flexibility of these nanorings on a Au(111) surface.
Crystallization Kinetics of Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Zhiwei , Sang Shuyang , Zheng Junjian , Gao Qin , Huang Bin , Li Feng , Sun Kuan , Chen Shanshan
Published: January 2024

Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) are considered ideal photovoltaic materials due to their variable crystal material composition and excellent photoelectric properties. However, this variability in composition leads to complex crystallization processes in the manufacturing of Metal halide perovskite (MHP) thin films, resulting in reduced crystallinity and subsequent performance loss in the final device. Thus, understanding and controlling the crystallization dynamics of perovskite materials are essential for improving the stability and performance of PSCs (Perovskite Solar Cells). To investigate the impact of crystallization characteristics on the properties of MHP films and identify corresponding modulation strategies, we primarily discuss the relevant aspects of MHP crystallization kinetics, systematically summarize theoretical methods, and outline modulation techniques for MHP crystallization, including solution engineering, additive engineering, and component engineering, which helps highlight the prospects and current challenges in perovskite crystallization kinetics
Unraveling the “Gap‐Filling” Mechanism of Multiple Charge Carriers in Aqueous Zn‐MoS2 Batteries
Authors: Li Shengwei , Zhao Xudong , Wang Tianhao , Wu Jiae , Xu Xinghe , Li Ping , Ji Xiaobo , Hou Hongshuai , Qu Xuanhui , Jiao Lifang , Liu Yongchang
Published: January 2024

The utilization rate of active sites in cathode materials for Zn‐based batteries is a key factor determining the reversible capacities. However, a long‐neglected issue of the strong electrostatic repulsions among divalent Zn2+ in hosts inevitably causes the squander of some active sites (i.e., gap sites). Herein, we address this conundrum by unraveling the “gap‐filling” mechanism of multiple charge carriers in aqueous Zn‐MoS2 batteries. The tailored MoS2/(reduced graphene quantum dots) hybrid features an ultra‐large interlayer spacing (2.34 nm), superior electrical conductivity/hydrophilicity, and robust layered structure, demonstrating highly reversible NH4+/Zn2+/H+ co‐insertion/extraction chemistry in the 1 M ZnSO4+0.5 M (NH4)2SO4 aqueous electrolyte. The NH4+ and H+ ions can act as gap fillers to fully utilize the active sites and screen electrostatic interactions to accelerate the Zn2+ diffusion. Thus, unprecedentedly high rate capability (439.5 and 104.3 mAh g−1 at 0.1 and 30 A g−1, respectively) and ultra‐long cycling life (8000 cycles) are achieved.
Information shaping
Authors: Ruthven Ian
Published: January 2024

In this article, I explore the relationships between how humans have evolved to interact with the material world and how we interact with our information worlds. I argue that shaping processes, exemplified by how early humans created stone tools, are core ways to interact with the world that are appropriated to interact with information to create information solutions. To test these claims, I examine existing studies of information use from a shaping perspective. I finish by discussing how this evolutionary perspective to information use can benefit discussions of information behavior.
Clinical profiling of pediatric microtia patients: A cross‐sectional analysis at a leading pediatric hospital in Ecuador (2015–2022)
Authors: Noroña Diego Mena , Chamba Walter Díaz , Santamaria Susana Rodríguez , Sosa María Cela , Carrera Lizeth Logacho , Rodríguez Fabian Arias , Martinez Madelaine Alvarez , Izquierdo‐Condoy Juan S.
Published: January 2024

Background

Microtia is a frequent congenital deformity of the pinna, often with hearing loss. This study reviews the clinical profiles of microtia pediatric patients treated at a referral hospital in Quito, Ecuador, from 2015 to 2022.

Methods

A cross‐sectional descriptive study was carried out based on the analysis of medical records of pediatric patients with microtia treated between January 2015 and December 2022 at the Hospital Pediátrico Baca Ortiz in Quito, Ecuador. Descriptive statistics were used, and the Chi‐square test assessed associations between categorical variables.

Results

Of the 235 patients evaluated, 59.6% were male, 83.4% lived at high altitudes (2500–3500 m), and 19.1% had a family history of microtia. Grade III microtia was diagnosed in 63.8%, predominantly on the right side. Nearly all (99.1%) had hearing loss. Other anatomical alterations were observed in 27.7%, primarily the preauricular appendage. Bone vibrator implantation was a common treatment for 24.3%. Altitude did not show a significant correlation with microtia characteristics.

Conclusions

Most patients had grade III microtia with associated hearing loss. Despite the high prevalence at elevated altitudes, no significant altitude‐disease correlation was found. The study highlights the need for further research on microtia in regions like Ecuador.
A novel potassium‐containing layered oxide for the cathode of sodium‐ion batteries
Authors: Aranda Manuel , Lavela Pedro , Tirado José L.
Published: January 2024

Layered oxides are successful cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries. Many of these oxides show interesting kinetic behavior but have poor structural stability. To overcome this limitation, an alternative material containing potassium in the interlayer space in trigonal prismatic coordination is studied here. The transition‐metal layers are formed by sustainable transition elements such as iron and manganese. The solid was prepared using a sol–gel procedure that led to a product with relatively high purity, with a Pʹ3‐type structure indexable in the C2/m space group of the monoclinic system. Its electrochemical behavior was studied in sodium metal half‐cells. When the cell is charged up to 4.3 V, it is observed that the potassium extraction is not complete. The subsequent discharge of the cell is associated with the intercalation of sodium from the electrolyte. Thus, it is possible to incorporate a greater number of alkaline ions than those extracted in the previous charge. The residual potassium in the structure was found to be favorable to maintaining the structural integrity of the compound upon cycling. This can be explained by the beneficial effect of potassium, which would act as a structural “pillar” in the interlayer, which would reduce structural degradation during cycling.
PriorClinico‐RadiologicalFeatures InformedMulti‐Modal MRImages Convolution Neural Network: A novel deep learning framework for prediction of lymphovascular invasion in breast cancer
Authors: Zheng Hong , Jian Lian , Li Li , Liu Wen , Chen Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

Current methods utilizing preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based radiomics for assessing lymphovascular invasion (LVI) in patients with early‐stage breast cancer lack precision, limiting the options for surgical planning.

Purpose

This study aimed to develop a sophisticated deep learning framework called “Prior Clinico‐Radiological Features Informed Multi‐Modal MR Images Convolutional Neural Network (PCMM‐Net)” to improve the accuracy of LVI prediction in breast cancer. By incorporating multiparameter MRI and prior clinical knowledge, PCMM‐Net should enhance the precision of LVI assessment.

Methods

A total of 341 patients with breast cancer were randomly divided into training and validation groups at a ratio of 7:3. Imaging features were extracted from T1‐weighted, T2‐weighted, and contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted MRI sequences. Stepwise univariate and multivariate logistic regression were employed to establish a clinico‐radiological model for LVI prediction. The radiomics model was built using redundancy and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. Then, two deep learning frameworks were developed: the Multi‐Modal MR Images Convolutional Neural Network (MM‐Net), which does not consider prior radiological features, and PCMM‐Net, which incorporates multiparameter MRI and prior clinical knowledge. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used, and the corresponding areas under the curves (AUCs) were calculated for evaluation.

Results

PCMM‐Net achieved the highest AUC of 0.843. The clinico‐radiological features displayed the lowest AUC value of 0.743, followed by MM‐Net with an AUC of 0.774, and radiomics with an AUC of 0.795.

Conclusions

This study introduces PCMM‐Net, an innovative deep learning framework that integrates prior clinico‐radiological features for accurate LVI prediction in breast cancer. PCMM‐Net demonstrates excellent diagnostic performance and facilitates the application of precision medicine.
Ecofriendly synthesis of selenium nanoparticles using agricultural Citrus fortunella waste and decolourization of crystal violet from aqueous solution
Authors: Solmaz Alper , Turna Talip , Baran Ayşe
Published: January 2024

In this study, the reuse of Citrus fortunella (CF) plant waste, an agricultural product, was evaluated within the scope of sustainability. In this context, selenium nanoparticles (CF‐Se NPs) were synthesized from CF waste extracts and crystal violet (CV) dye was removed. The characteristic structure of the synthesized CF‐Se NPs was determined by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–vis spectroscopy, and point of zero charge (pHpzc). Batch adsorption tests were applied to determine the effect of the synthesized CF‐Se NPs on CV removal. Four different kinetic and isotherm models were examined using error analysis functions. While the particle size of CF‐Se NPs was determined as 27.58 nm, the pHpzc value was calculated as 9.40, the average surface charge distribution was −24.1 mV, and mass losses were 9.03% and 13.42% at 334.99 and 739.21°C, respectively. The most suitable kinetic and isotherm model for CV removal with CF‐Se NPs was determined to be pseudo‐second‐order with a R2‐value of 0.999 and Freundlich with R2‐value of 0.993, and the qmax was calculated as 23.55 mgCV/gCF‐SeNPs. The effectiveness of CF‐Se NPs synthesized from waste in CV removal is a remarkable issue in terms of sustainable production.
Towards Multitargeted Ligands as Pain Therapeutics: Dual Ligands of the Cavα2δ‐1 Subunit of Voltage‐Gated Calcium Channel and the μ‐Opioid Receptor
Authors: Wegert Anita , Monnee Menno , de Graaf Wouter , van Holst Frank , Bolcato Giovanni , Díaz José Luis , Dordal Albert , Portillo‐Salido Enrique , Reinoso Raquel F. , Yeste Sandra , Torrens Antoni , Almansa Carmen
Published: January 2024

The synthesis and pharmacological activity of a new series of dual ligands combining activities towards the α2δ‐1 subunit of voltage‐gated calcium channels (Cavα2δ‐1) and the μ‐opioid receptor (MOR) as novel pain therapeutics are reported. A careful exploration of the pharmacophores related to both targets, which in principle had few common characteristics, led to the design of novel compounds exhibiting both activities. The construction of the dual ligands started from published Cavα2δ‐1 ligands, onto which MOR ligand pharmacophoric elements were added. This exercise led to new amino‐acidic substances with good affinities on both targets as well as good metabolic and physicochemical profiles and low potential for drug‐drug interactions. A representative compound, (2S,4S)‐4‐(4‐chloro‐3‐(((cis)‐4‐(dimethylamino)‐4‐phenylcyclohexyl)methyl)‐5‐fluorophenoxy)pyrrolidine‐2‐carboxylic acid, displayed promising analgesic activities in several in vivo pain models as well as a reduced side‐effect profile in relation to morphine.
Cedirogant Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamic Analyses of Interleukin‐17A Inhibition in Two Phase 1 Studies in Healthy Participants and Participants with Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
Authors: Maier Corinna S. , Eckert Doerthe , Laroux F. Stephen , Hew Kinjal M. , Suleiman Ahmed A. , Liu Wei , Mohamed Mohamed‐Eslam F.
Published: January 2024

Cedirogant (ABBV‐157) is an orally bioavailable inverse agonist of retinoic acid‐related orphan receptor gamma thymus. Data from 2 Phase 1 studies were used to characterize cedirogant pharmacokinetics and evaluate target engagement. Cedirogant plasma concentrations and ex vivo interleukin 17A (IL‐17A) concentrations from healthy participants and participants with moderate to severe psoriasis (PsO) were analyzed in a population pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling framework to characterize cedirogant pharmacokinetics following single and multiple doses and assess ex vivo IL‐17A inhibition in relation to cedirogant exposure. Cedirogant population pharmacokinetics were best described by a 2‐compartment pharmacokinetic model with delayed absorption and an enzyme turnover compartment to describe cytochrome P450 3A autoinduction. The pharmacokinetics of cedirogant were comparable between healthy participants and participants with PsO. Cedirogant steady‐state average and maximum plasma concentrations were predicted to be 7.56 and 11.8 mg/L, respectively, for participants with PsO for the 375 mg once‐daily regimen on Day 14. The apparent clearance and apparent volume of distribution for cedirogant were estimated to be 24.5 L/day and 28.2 L, respectively. A direct maximum inhibition model adequately characterized the exposure‐response relationship of cedirogant and ex vivo IL‐17A inhibition, indicating no temporal delay between exposure and response with a saturable inhibition of IL‐17A. Model‐estimated half‐maximal inhibitory concentration and maximum inhibition values for cedirogant inhibition of ex vivo IL‐17A were 0.56 mg/L and 0.76, respectively. The established relationship between cedirogant exposure and biomarker effect supported dose selection for the Phase 2 dose‐ranging study in patients with PsO.
Environmental Enrichment Cage for Laboratory Mice: A Downloadable Alternative
Authors: Smith Kevin B. , Murack Michael , Sharani Sara Al , Ismail Nafissa
Published: January 2024

Environmentally enriched housing (EE) provides a stimulating and species‐typical environment that enhances brain plasticity and cognition, while reducing disease severity in laboratory animals. However, standardizing EE protocols has been challenging due to issues such as variability, high pricing, or limited laboratory space. To address these challenges, we present a replicable and cost‐efficient cage protocol that is accessible to researchers with limited resources and space constraints. The protocol is designed to provide a stimulating and species‐typical environment for the animals. It incorporates elements such as social interaction, physical exercise, cognitive stimulation, manipulable objects, environmental variability, and sensory stimulation. As evidenced in our previous studies using our protocol, users can expect to observe similar neuroplastic and health‐wise benefits that accompany EE experimental paradigms. These included straightforward step‐by‐step guide, which allows for construction of functional EE cages in under 8 hr. Basic knowledge of 3D printing and laser cutting is required, but no advanced skills are necessary. The protocol enables researchers to create stimulating and replicable environments that promote animal welfare, enhance brain plasticity, and yield valuable experimental results for low cost. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: An effective and cost‐efficient environmental enrichment cage designed to encourage standardization amongst laboratory protocols.