bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid Metal Aerogel With Janus Architecture for Selective Direction Recognition and High‐Efficiency Moisture Energy Harvesting
Authors: Cui Jing , Li Xiankai , Xia Yanzhi
Published: September 2024

Liquid metal (LM) micro‐nano droplets show the superiority in reducing the high surface tension applicable in conductive inks for flexible electronics. However, the dynamic surface makes LM droplets susceptible to be oxidized, facing challenges in storage and applications. Herein, a bifunctional groups cross‐linking strategy is adopted to encapsulate LM droplets into a robust shell. During sonicating LM in carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) solution with bifunctional groups (i.e., carboxyl and amino groups), a robust interface shell is constructed by anchoring effect, thereby providing high chemical stability (>7d). When directionally freezing‐drying LM dispersions, aerogel with Janus architecture is produced driven by the gravity of LM droplets. Due to the unique heterogeneous structure, the resultant aerogel exhibits a selective multifunctional response toward directional bending. In addition, owing to the gradient distribution of CMCS within aerogel, moisture electricity generator can be built with a high output voltage of 460 mV. Thus, this bifunctional groups cross‐linking strategy not only improves the chemical stability of LM micro‐nano droplets, but also renders a new method for producing multifunctional aerogel with energy harvesting and selective directional recognition, and applicable in smart sensors and power supplying devices.
The Role of Carrier Ion‐Ligand Interaction on Intercalation Potentials and Phase Evolution of Berlin Green Cathodes in Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Heo Jeong Yeon , Lee Ju‐Hyeon , Kim Geunsu , Kim Hyunjin , Lee Hyeon Jeong , Lee Ji Hoon
Published: September 2024

Intercalation and deintercalation are fundamental processes in battery electrodes that involve the reversible addition and extraction of carrier ions such as lithium (Li) and sodium (Na) into a host framework made of transition metal (TM) ions and ligands. Although TM–ligand interactions are known to primarily determine intercalation potentials, a comprehensive understanding of their interactions involving the carrier ions still remains elusive. This study investigates the complex interactions between carrier ions (Li and Na) and the ligand in Berlin green (BG, Fe3+[Fe3+(CN)6]) cathodes to elucidate their effects on intercalation potentials and phase evolution. Comprehensive X‐ray characterizations and electrochemical analyses reveal that the strong carrier ion–ligand interaction, influenced by the type and concentration of carrier ions, can modify the electronic structure of Fe ions and affect the intercalated structure of BG cathodes, thereby tuning the intercalation potentials. Specifically, the enhanced covalent interaction of the Na–CN units compared with that of the Li–CN units induces rhombohedral distortion in the fully sodiated state and increases the working potential of high‐spin Fe ions. The findings highlight the critical role of carrier ion–ligand interactions in tuning the electrochemical properties of battery electrodes for the design of advanced battery systems.
Energetics and Structural Transitions of Nonequivalent Polytypes for FCC and HCP Metals
Authors: Liu ZhongQiang , Kong XiangMu , Ding Feng
Published: September 2024

Although metal nanomaterials with unconventional phases have attracted extensive attention, the lack of information on the characteristics of metal polytypes hinders the development of related research. In this work, the energetics of nonequivalent polytypes for bulk face‐centered cubic (Li, Al, Ca, Cu, Sr, Rh, Pd, Ag, Ir, Pt, Au, and Pb) and hexagonal close‐packed metals (Be, Na, Mg, Sc, Ti, Zn, Cd, Y, Zr, Tc, Ru, Hf, Re, Os, and Tl) is systematically reported. For each metal, the structural properties and energies for its polytypes with up to the periodic stacking length of L = 10 is obtained by DFT calculation. The variation tendency of the energy differences between 3C and 2H polytypes is summarized in the Periodic Table of Elements. Generally, the ratio c/(La) increases when metal crystals except Ir, Rh, Zn, and Cd leave away from their ground‐state structure. It is found that the energy difference between polytypes originates from various interactions between the two types of atomic layers: the k layer and the h layer. The work is helpful to understand not only the structural transitions in bulk metals, such as Li, Na, Sr, Ti, Al, Pb, Y, Re, and Tl, but also the evolutions of Au nanomaterials.
Perovskite Nanocrystals Initiate One‐Step Oxygen Tolerant PET‐RAFT Polymerization of Highly Loaded, Efficient Plastic Nanocomposites
Authors: Bellotti Valentina , Carulli Francesco , Mecca Sara , Zaffalon Matteo L. , Erroi Andrea , Catalano Federico , Boventi Matteo , Infante Ivan , Rossi Francesca , Beverina Luca , Brovelli Sergio , Simonutti Roberto
Published: September 2024

Lead halide perovskite nanocrystals (LHP‐NCs) incorporated within polymer matrices have emerged as promising materials for various photonic applications. However, challenges persist in achieving high‐quality nanocomposites due to low monomer conversion yields, restricted LHP‐NCs loadings, and difficulty in maintaining NCs integrity post‐polymerization. A novel protocol for synthesizing LHP‐NCs/poly(methyl methacrylate) nanocomposites in a single step via the NC‐initiated photoinduced electron transfer‐reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) method is presented. Polymerization initiation mediated by NCs surfaces under blue light enables the fabrication of homogeneous nanocomposites with NCs loadings up to 7% w/w and ≈90% monomer conversion even in the presence of oxygen. This process preserves the optical quality of the NCs and passivates NCs surface defects, resulting in nanocomposites exhibiting near unity luminescence efficiencies. The potential of this approach for producing highly loaded nanocomposites for radiation detection is validated by radioluminescence measurements showing light yield values of 6000 ph MeV−1 and fast scintillation dynamics with effective lifetime of 490 ps, showing promise for time‐of‐flight radiometry.
Safe, Facile, and Straightforward Fabrication of Poly(N‐vinyl imidazole)/Polyacrylonitrile Nanofiber Modified Separator as Efficient Polysulfide Barrier Toward Durable Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Lin Chenxiao , Feng Ping , Wang Daiqing , Chen Xiaoqin , Fang Yuning , Gao Yiwei , Zheng Yong , Yan Yan , Liu Mingkai
Published: September 2024

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are gaining tremendous attention as promising energy storage solutions due to their impressive energy density and the affordability of sulfur. However, the practical use of Li–S batteries encounter major obstacles such as the polysulfide shuttle effect, which leads to capacity loss and decreased cycling stability. Herein, a polyethylene imidazole/polyacrylonitrile (PVIMPAN) nanofibers‐modified Celgard separator is constructed via a facile electrospinning strategy and used as a polysulfides barrier for Li–S batteries. The electron‐deficient imidazole groups introduced on the surface of PVIMPAN separators create a barrier that prevents polysulfide shuttling and extends cycle life. Additionally, the developed PVIMPAN separator exhibits a significantly enhanced Li+ transfer number of 0.60, compared to the commercial Celgard separator (0.20). This enhancement can be attributed to the strong binding energy between imidazole groups and bis(trifluoromethanesulphonyl)imide anion, leading to improved Li plating and stripping performance. Consequently, incorporating the PVIMPAN separator into Li–S batteries enable the achievement of a discharge capacity of 786.0 mAh g−1 with close to 100% Coulombic efficiency after 500 cycles at 1C (25 °C). It is believed that this work can provide valuable insights for designing suitable and robust separators for metal–sulfur batteries.
Advanced MXene/Graphene Oxide/Lignosulfonate Inks for 3D Printing Thick Electrodes with Vertically Aligned Pores to Dually Boost Mass Loading and Areal Capacitance
Authors: Ye Haichuan , He Yuan , You Tingting , Xu Feng
Published: September 2024

Direct ink writing 3D printing, using ink extrusion, promises to transform conventional 2D thin electrodes into 3D thick architectures for high‐performance supercapacitors. However, formulating 3D printing inks and designing 3D architectures for electrodes remain challenges. In this work, a novel MXene/graphene oxide/lignosulfonate (MGL) ink with excellent rheological properties is developed for 3D printing MGL thick electrodes with vertically aligned architectures. The MGL ink exhibited excellent shear‐thinning properties for smooth 3D printing and shape retention after printing. The 3D‐printed MGL thick electrode, with a thickness of up to 4 mm, achieved a breakthrough mass loading of 72.1 mg cm−2, resulting in an extremely high areal capacitance of 8.6 F cm−2 that is 9.6 times greater than the value observed for the bulk MGL electrode (0.9 F cm−2). Additionally, supercapacitors using the 3D MGL electrode achieved an energy density of 505.3 µWh cm−2, significantly surpassing the value for bulk MGL electrode (52.8 µWh cm−2). This enhancement is attributed to the efficient design of the electrodes, where vertically aligned pores in the 3D MGL electrode enhanced ion transfer and reaction kinetics. This study demonstrates an innovative approach for formulating inks and provides guidance for designing 3D thick electrodes with rapid ion transport and excellent electrochemical performance.
From Nanozymes to Multi‐Purpose Nanomaterials: The Potential of Metal–Organic Frameworks for Proteomics Applications
Authors: Swinnen Siene , de Azambuja Francisco , Parac‐Vogt Tatjana N.
Published: September 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have the potential to revolutionize the biotechnological and medical landscapes due to their easily tunable crystalline porous structure. Herein, the study presents MOFs' potential impact on proteomics, unveiling the diverse roles MOFs can play to boost it. Although MOFs are excellent catalysts in other scientific disciplines, their role as catalysts in proteomics applications remains largely underexplored, despite protein cleavage being of crucial importance in proteomics protocols. Additionally, the study discusses evolving MOF materials that are tailored for proteomics, showcasing their structural diversity and functional advantages compared to other types of materials used for similar applications. MOFs can be developed to seamlessly integrate into proteomics workflows due to their tunable features, contributing to protein separation, peptide enrichment, and ionization for mass spectrometry. This review is meant as a guide to help bridge the gap between material scientists, engineers, and MOF chemists and on the other side researchers in biology or bioinformatics working in proteomics.
Carrier–Carrier Repulsion Limits the Conductivity of N‐Doped Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Yang Xuwen , Ye Gang , Liu Jian , Chiechi Ryan C. , Koster L. Jan Anton
Published: September 2024

Molecular doping is a key strategy to enhance the electrical conductivity of organic semiconductors. Typically, the electrical conductivity shows a maximum value upon increased doping, after which the conductivity decreases. This decrease in conductivity is commonly attributed to unfavorable changes in the morphology. However, in recent simulation work, has shown, that the conductivity—at high doping—is instead limited by electron–electron repulsion rather than by morphology, at least for some material combinations. Based on the simulations, this limitation is expected to show up in the dependence of the Seebeck coefficient versus carrier density: the Seebeck coefficient will follow Heike's formula if carrier–carrier repulsion limits the conductivity. Here, the electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient are measured as a function of doping for a series of n‐type organic semiconductors. Additionally, the resulting carrier density is measured using metal‐insulator‐semiconductor diodes, which link dopant loading and the number of charge carriers. At high carrier densities, the Seebeck coefficient indeed follows Heike's formula, confirming that the conductivity is limited by carrier–carrier repulsion rather than by morphological effects. This study shows that current models of hopping transport in organic semiconductors may be incomplete. As a result, this study offers novel insights in the design of organic semiconductors.
High‐Entropy Metal‐Organic Frameworks (HEMOFs): A New Frontier in Materials Design for CO2 Utilization
Authors: Sikma R. Eric , Vogel Dayton J. , Reyes Raphael A. , Meyerson Melissa L. , Kotula Paul G. , Gallis Dorina F. Sava
Published: September 2024

High‐entropy materials (HEMs) emerged as promising candidates for a diverse array of chemical transformations, including CO2 utilization. However, traditional HEMs catalysts are nonporous, limiting their activity to surface sites. Designing HEMs with intrinsic porosity can open the door toward enhanced reactivity while maintaining the many benefits of high configurational entropy. Here, a synergistic experimental, analytical, and theoretical approach to design the first high‐entropy metal‐organic frameworks (HEMOFs) derived from polynuclear metal clusters is implemented, a novel class of porous HEMs that is highly active for CO2 fixation under mild conditions and short reaction times, outperforming existing heterogeneous catalysts. HEMOFs with up to 15 distinct metals are synthesized (the highest number of metals ever incorporated into a single MOF) and, for the first time, homogenous metal mixing within individual clusters is directly observed via high‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy. Importantly, density functional theory studies provide unprecedented insight into the electronic structures of HEMOFs, demonstrating that the density of states in heterometallic clusters is highly sensitive to metal composition. This work dramatically advances HEMOF materials design, paving the way for further exploration of HEMs and offers new avenues for the development of multifunctional materials with tailored properties for a wide range of applications.
Molten Salt‐Assisted Synthesis of Catalysts for Energy Conversion
Authors: Chen Ding , Mu Shichun
Published: September 2024

A breakthrough in manufacturing procedures often enables people to obtain the desired functional materials. For the field of energy conversion, designing and constructing catalysts with high cost‐effectiveness is urgently needed for commercial requirements. Herein, the molten salt‐assisted synthesis (MSAS) strategy is emphasized, which combines the advantages of traditional solid and liquid phase synthesis of catalysts. It not only provides sufficient kinetic accessibility, but effectively controls the size, morphology, and crystal plane features of the product, thus possessing promising application prospects. Specifically, the selection and role of the molten salt system, as well as the mechanism of molten salt assistance are analyzed in depth. Then, the creation of the catalyst by the MSAS and the electrochemical energy conversion related application are introduced in detail. Finally, the key problems and countermeasures faced in breakthroughs are discussed and look forward to the future. Undoubtedly, this systematical review and insights here will promote the comprehensive understanding of the MSAS and further stimulate the generation of new and high efficiency catalysts.
Enhancing Photoswitchable Wetting Properties of Hydrophobic Porous Spiropyran Copolymer Surfaces Through Surface Roughness Engineering
Authors: Nekoonam Niloofar , Dreher Franziska , Mayoussi Fadoua , Zhu Pang , Thomann Ralf , Montazeri Ramin , Bhagwat Sagar , Hambitzer Leonhard , Helmer Dorothea
Published: September 2024

Surfaces with photoswitchable wettability are of great interest for various applications such as smart coatings or liquid condensation. The photochromic ring opening reaction of spiropyran (SP) to merocyanine (MC) implies a high dipole moment change, making it interesting for photo‐controlled wetting properties. In addition to the material chemistry, surface wettability is influenced by the surface topography. Porous SP copolymers with various micro‐/nanostructures, that is, different submicron roughness, are fabricated via polymerization‐induced phase separation. The influence of the surface topography on the photoswitchable wetting properties is studied. Surfaces with arithmetic mean roughness (Sa) below 150 nm exhibited a maximum static contact angle (SCA) photoswitch up to 16° from 124 ± 6° to 108 ± 4° upon UV exposure. While superhydrophobic surfaces with higher Sa (157 – 608 nm) showed an insignificant SCA switch. The latter surfaces have a SCA above 150° and low CA hysteresis indicating small and insufficient contact with SP/MC surface asperities for the switch. With the optimized surfaces, photo‐controlled water condensation is studied on microscale and showed that the condensate droplets merged faster, and formed larger droplets pinned to the original contact lines on surfaces switched to the less hydrophobic state.
Construction of Concentration Quenching‐Resistant Multi‐Resonance TADF Emitters via Positional Isomerization for OLEDs
Authors: Xiao Xiong , Hu Jia‐Jun , Huo Zhong‐Zhong , Liang Jia‐Qi , Yang Bo , Hong Xian‐Fang , Chen Zong‐Ju , Wang Yu , Li Cheng‐Hui , Zheng You‐Xuan
Published: September 2024

Multiple resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) emitters are promising for high‐definition organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) due to their high exciton utilization and color purity. However, strong interchromophore interactions cause most MR‐TADF emitters with planar structures to aggregate at high doping concentrations, leading to degraded efficiencies. Herein, using benzenesulfonyl‐functionalized dibenzothiophene sulfoximine with steric effects, three MR‐TADF emitters (2SBN, 3SBN, and 4SBN) are synthesized by coupling the classic DtBuCzB skeleton at different sites. Three emitters exhibit green or blue‐green emission with full width at half maximum (FWHM) values less than 29 nm and photoluminescence quantum yields exceeding 90%. OLEDs based on 2SBN, 3SBN, and 4SBN achieve high maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) values of 30.1%, 27%, and 33.8%, respectively, at a 5 wt.% doping concentration. Notably, due to the distorted conformation of 4SBN and suppressed intermolecular interaction, the OLED remains high EQEmax of 28.9% at a doping concentration of 20 wt.%. These results demonstrate the feasibility of molecular design to modulate spatial conformations via positional isomerism to develop MR‐TADF emitters with reduced concentration quenching.
Brain‐Controlled Augmented Hearing for Spatially Moving Conversations in Multi‐Talker Environments
Authors: Choudhari Vishal , Han Cong , Bickel Stephan , Mehta Ashesh D. , Schevon Catherine , McKhann Guy M. , Mesgarani Nima
Published: September 2024

Focusing on a specific conversation amidst multiple interfering talkers is challenging, especially for those with hearing loss. Brain‐controlled assistive hearing devices aim to alleviate this problem by enhancing the attended speech based on the listener's neural signals using auditory attention decoding (AAD). Departing from conventional AAD studies that relied on oversimplified scenarios with stationary talkers, a realistic AAD task that involves multiple talkers taking turns as they continuously move in space in background noise is presented. Invasive electroencephalography (iEEG) data are collected from three neurosurgical patients as they focused on one of the two moving conversations. An enhanced brain‐controlled assistive hearing system that combines AAD and a binaural speaker‐independent speech separation model is presented. The separation model unmixes talkers while preserving their spatial location and provides talker trajectories to the neural decoder to improve AAD accuracy. Subjective and objective evaluations show that the proposed system enhances speech intelligibility and facilitates conversation tracking while maintaining spatial cues and voice quality in challenging acoustic environments. This research demonstrates the potential of this approach in real‐world scenarios and marks a significant step toward developing assistive hearing technologies that adapt to the intricate dynamics of everyday auditory experiences.
A Few Charged Residues in Galectin‐3′s Folded and Disordered Regions Regulate Phase Separation
Authors: Sun Yung‐Chen , Hsieh Tsung‐Lun , Lin Chia‐I , Shao Wan‐Yu , Lin Yu‐Hao , Huang Jie‐rong
Published: September 2024

Proteins with intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) often undergo phase separation to control their functions spatiotemporally. Changing the pH alters the protonation levels of charged sidechains, which in turn affects the attractive or repulsive force for phase separation. In a cell, the rupture of membrane‐bound compartments, such as lysosomes, creates an abrupt change in pH. However, how proteins’ phase separation reacts to different pH environments remains largely unexplored. Here, using extensive mutagenesis, NMR spectroscopy, and biophysical techniques, it is shown that the assembly of galectin‐3, a widely studied lysosomal damage marker, is driven by cation‐π interactions between positively charged residues in its folded domain with aromatic residues in the IDR in addition to π–π interaction between IDRs. It is also found that the sole two negatively charged residues in its IDR sense pH changes for tuning the condensation tendency. Also, these two residues may prevent this prion‐like IDR domain from forming rapid and extensive aggregates. These results demonstrate how cation‐π, π–π, and electrostatic interactions can regulate protein condensation between disordered and structured domains and highlight the importance of sparse negatively charged residues in prion‐like IDRs.
Making High Thermoelectric and Superior Mechanical Performance Nb0.88Hf0.12FeSb Half‐Heusler via Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Yao Zhifu , Qiu Wenbin , Chen Chen , Bao Xin , Luo Kaiyi , Deng Yong , Xue Wenhua , Li Xiaofang , Hu Qiujun , Guo Junbiao , Yang Lei , Hu Wenyu , Wang Xiaoyi , Liu Xingjun , Zhang Qian , Tanigaki Katsumi , Tang Jun
Published: September 2024

Thermoelectric generators held great promise through energy harvesting from waste heat. Their practical application, however, is greatly constrained by poor raw material utilization and tedious processing in fabricating desired shapes. Herein, a state‐of‐the‐art process is reported for 3D printing the half‐Heusler (Nb0.88Hf0.12FeSb) thermoelectric material using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The multi‐dimensional intra‐ and inter‐granular defects created by this process greatly suppress thermal conductivity by providing numerous phonon scattering centers. The resulting LPBF‐fabricated half‐Heusler exhibits a high figure of merit ≈1.2 at 923 K and a single‐leg maximum efficiency of ≈3.3% at a temperature difference (ΔT) of 371 K. Hafnium oxide nanoparticles generated during LPBF effectively prevent crack propagation, ensuring competent mechanical performance and reliable thermoelectric output. The findings highlight the significant potential of LPBF in driving the next industrial revolution of highly efficient and customizable thermoelectric materials.
Lateral Electronic Junction of a Single Ultrathin Silicon Induced by Interfacial Dipole of Self‐Assembled Monolayer
Authors: Han Junghyup , Lee Won Hyung , Park Junwoo , Jin Huding , Cho Yong Hyun , Yu Seungyeon , Li Lianghui , Lee Jaewon , Woo Gunhoo , Kim Taesung , Kim Youn Sang
Published: September 2024

Interface engineering is pivotal for enhancing the performance and stability of devices with layered structures, including solar cells, electronic devices, and electrochemical systems. Incorporating the interfacial dipole between the bulk layers effectively modulates the energy level difference at the interface and does not significantly influence adjacent layers overall. However, interfaces can drastically affect adjoining layers in ultrathin devices, which are essential for next‐generation electronics with high integrity, excellent performance, and low power consumption. In particular, the interfacial effect is pronounced in ultrathin semiconductors, which have a weak electric field screening effect. Herein, the substantial interfacial impact on the ultrathin silicon is shown, the p‐ to n‐type inversion of the semiconductor solely through the deposition of a self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) without external bias. The effects of SAMs with different interfacial dipoles are investigated by using Hall measurement and surface analytic techniques, such as UPS, XPS, and KPFM. Furthermore, the lateral electronic junction of the ultrathin silicon is engineered by the regioselective deposition of SAMs with opposite dipoles, and the device exhibits rectification behavior. When the interfacial dipole of SAM is manipulated, the rectification ratio changes sensitively, and thus the fabricated diode shows potential to be developed as a sensing platform.
A Live‐Cell Epigenome Manipulation by Photo‐Stimuli‐Responsive Histone Methyltransferase Inhibitor
Authors: Wu Chuan‐Shuo , Sun Xin , Liu Li , Cheng Liang
Published: September 2024

Post‐translational modifications on the histone H3 tail regulate chromatin structure, impact epigenetics, and hence the gene expressions. Current chemical modulation tools, such as unnatural amino acid incorporation, protein splicing, and sortase‐based editing, have allowed for the modification of histones with various PTMs in cellular contexts, but are not applicable for editing native chromatin. The use of small organic molecules to manipulate histone‐modifying enzymes alters endogenous histone PTMs but lacks precise temporal and spatial control. To date, there has been no achievement in modulating histone methylation in living cells with spatiotemporal resolution. In this study, a new method is presented for temporally manipulating histone dimethylation H3K9me2 using a photo‐responsive inhibitor that specifically targets the methyltransferase G9a on demand. The photo‐caged molecule is stable under physiological conditions and cellular environments, but rapidly activated upon exposure to light, releasing the bioactive component that can immediately inhibit the catalytic ability of the G9a in vitro. Besides, this masked compound could also efficiently reactivate the inhibition of methyltransferase activity in living cells, subsequently suppress H3K9me2, a mark that regulates various chromatin functions. Therefore, the chemical system will be a valuable tool for manipulating the epigenome for therapeutic purposes and furthering the understanding of epigenetic mechanisms.
A Self‐Assembling Molecule for Improving the Mobility in PEDOT:PSS Hole Transport Layer for Efficient Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kim Tae Hyung , Kim Bong Woo , Im Sang Hyuk
Published: September 2024

Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), the most widely used hole injection layer (HIL) for perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs), has a large hole injection energy barrier and easy charge separation at PEDOT:PSS/perovskite layer. Here, a self‐assembling molecule (SAM) called (2‐(3,6‐dimethoxy‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)ethyl) phosphonic acid (MeO‐2PACz) is introduced as an interlayer between PEDOT:PSS and perovskite to overcome the limitations of PEDOT:PSS HIL. The MeO‐2PACz interlayer facilitated hole injection due to the reduced hole injection energy barrier and the improved hole mobility, enhanced photoluminescence (PL) due to the prevented charge transfer from perovskite into PEDOT:PSS, and reduced interface trap density due to the passivation of methoxy and carbazole group toward perovskite. As a result, PeLEDs with MeO‐2PACz interlayer has greatly enhanced maximum luminance (Lmax = 17,310 cd m−2) and reduced leakage current, resulting in higher maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax = 21.50%) compared to pristine Control device (EQEmax of 4.82%).
Ultrafast Self‐Charging in Acid–Base Free Aqueous Rechargeable Zinc–Quinhydrone Batteries
Authors: Bariya Sanjay N. , Surana Karan , Kapdi Yash G. , Machhi Hiren K. , Prasad Jyoti , Soni Saurabh S.
Published: September 2024

In the field of energy technologies, self‐charging batteries are receiving extensive attention. However, the existing technologies are highly dependent on the available sources of O2, have long self‐charging duration, and have complex architectures. Herein, a novel ultrafast chemical self‐charging Zn‐quinhydrone polymer gel (QPG) battery, composed of acid/base free quinhydrone as a cathode material is reported. The prepared Zn–QPG battery exhibits a specific capacity of 209.7 mAh g−1 at 10C rate and maintains 86.4% of the initial discharge capacity even after 3000 cycles with a high coulombic efficiency of 99.4%. The aqueous amphiphilic block co‐polymer‐driven selective oxidation of hydroquinone (HQ) to benzoquinone (BQ) compels the chemical self‐charging feature wherein the device attains ≈1.1 V within ten minutes of complete discharge. The chemical self‐charging generated a high specific capacity of 197.8 mAh g−1 at 10C rate with a capacity retention of 91.2% after 100 cycles. Moreover, a flexible Zn–QPG battery also demonstrates excellent rechargeability and power‐delivering ability even in a wrist‐bend geometry. This work paves the way to develop ultrafast energy storage systems, which are not dependent on an external power supply and broaden the horizon of aqueous zinc–organic batteries.
Layered Structure Modification of Sodium Vanadate through Ca/F Co‐Doping for Enhanced Energy Storage Performance
Authors: Han Jiajia , Gao Shuting , Sun Zhefei , Yang Zonghua , Liu Xingjun , Wang Cuiping
Published: September 2024

Vanadate materials are promising for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to their low cost, high capacity, and high power characteristics enabled by vanadium's multiple oxidation states. However, their development is hindered by poor conductivity, suboptimal high‐rate performance, and limited cycle life. In this work, a layered structure modification strategy involving Ca/F co‐doping in sodium vanadate Na2CaV2O6F (CVF) is proposed to address these issues. Through a combination of experiments and density functional theory calculations, it is demonstrated that Ca/F synergies enhance the Na layer spacing in CVF, resulting in reduced crystal water content and volume shrinkage compared to Na2V2O6 (NVO). Additionally, Ca/F incorporation significantly mitigates the diffusion potential of Na+ within the material framework. The unmodified CVF sample exhibits a high reversible capacity of 220 mAh g−1 at 10 mA g−1 and an excellent rate capacity of 65.78 mAh g−1 at 400 mA g−1. Furthermore, the cathode material maintains a capacity of up to 138 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1 and retains 104.88 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles within the voltage range of 1.5−4.0 V. These findings enhance the understanding of the crystal structure of NVO cathode materials and pave the way for the rational design of high‐quality vanadate cathodes for SIBs.
Co‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks With Dual Redox Active Centers for Lithium‐Ion Batteries With High Capacity and Excellent Rate Capability
Authors: Su Lihong , Chen Jin , Zhou Jianzhong , Liu Junjie , Hu Zhongli , Li Sha , Hu Xuebu , Xu Liang liang , Zhang Li
Published: September 2024

Small molecule organic materials are widely used as anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high reversible capacity, designable structure, and environmental friendliness. However, they suffer from poor intrinsic electronic conductivity, severe dissolution, and low initial coulombic efficiency. Recently, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have demonstrated in metal‐ion batteries, outperforming some small molecule organic materials in terms of both cycling stability and rate capability. Herein, the first rational design and synthesis of a new cobalt‐based MOF (CoBPDCA), are reported employing cobalt(II) nitrate as the metal source and small organic molecules (2,2‐bipyridyl‐4,4‐dicarboxylic acid, BPDCA) as the ligands, which shows exceptional chemical stability and impressive electron conductivity. Most importantly, CoBPDCA electrodes deliver a high reversible capacity of 1112.9 mAh g−1 at 0.05 C (1 C = 1000 mA g−1) and outstanding high‐rate durability (166.3 mAh g−1 after 2500 cycles at 10 C). Employing a series of spectroscopic and morphological characterizations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, it is revealed that these impressively electrochemical performances are contributed to the dual active redox centers of Co cations and BPDCA ligands (CN and CO groups), and the superb electron conductivity. This work might provide a new strategy and a deeper understanding of the other MOFs' development for LIBs.
Environmental policy behavioral spillovers: The impact of California's single‐use carryout bag ban on the use of unregulated single‐use plastics
Authors: Yoon Sungeun , House Lisa , Gao Zhifeng
Published: September 2024

This study examines the spillover effect of California's 2016 single‐use bag ban (SB 270) on unregulated single‐use plastics (SUPs) like cutlery, cups, and plates. We observed an insignificant 4.8% decrease in SUP sales over the entire post‐policy period, but a larger 8.1% drop in the second post‐year, which was only marginally significant. The findings suggest weak spillover effects from such environmental policies, indicating that direct regulations on certain environmentally harmful products might be more effective if jurisdictions aim to prohibit citizens from excessive use, rather than relying on the positive spillover effect from existing policies.
Haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation as a platform for natural killer cell immunotherapy
Authors: Duléry Rémy , Piccinelli Sara , Beg Mohmad Shahnawaz , Jang Ji Eun , Romee Rizwan
Published: September 2024

An innovative approach is crucially needed to manage relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) in patients with advanced hematological malignancies. This review explores key aspects of haploidentical HCT with post‐transplant cyclophosphamide, highlighting the potential and suitability of this platform for natural killer (NK) cell immunotherapy. NK cells, known for their unique abilities to eliminate cancer cells, can also exhibit memory‐like features and enhanced cytotoxicity when activated by cytokines. By discussing promising results from clinical trials, the review delves into the recent major advances: donor‐derived NK cells can be expanded ex vivo in large numbers, cytokine activation may enhance NK cell persistence and efficacy in vivo, and post‐HCT NK cell infusion can improve outcomes in high‐risk and/or relapsed myeloid malignancies without increasing the risk of graft‐versus‐host disease, severe cytokine release syndrome, or neurotoxicity. Looking ahead, cytokine‐activated NK cells can be synergized with immunomodulatory agents and/or genetically engineered to enhance their tumor‐targeting specificity, cytotoxicity, and persistence while preventing exhaustion. The ongoing exploration of these strategies holds promising preliminary results and could be rapidly translated into clinical applications for the benefit of the patients.
Suspension Bead Loading (SBL): An Economical Protein Delivery Platform to Study URM1’s Behavior in Live Cells
Authors: Saha Abhishek , Mousa Reem , Alalouf Yam , Sadhu Pradeep , Hasan Mahdi , Mandal Shaswati , Mann Guy , Brik Ashraf
Published: September 2024

Uniquely modified synthetic proteins are difficult to produce in large quantities, which could limit their use in various in vitro settings and in cellular studies. In this study, we developed a method named “suspension bead loading” (SBL), to deliver protein molecules into suspended living cells using glass beads, which significantly reduces the amount of protein required for effective delivery. We investigated the delivery efficiency of functionally different proteins and evaluated the cytotoxic effect of our method and the chemical and functional integrity of the delivered protein. We utilized SBL to address questions related to ubiquitin‐related modifier 1 (URM1). Employing minimal protein quantities, SBL has enabled us to study its behavior within live cells under different redox conditions, including subcellular localization and conjugation patterns. We demonstrate that oxidative stress alters both the localization and conjugation pattern of URM1 in cells, highlighting its possible role in cellular response to such extreme conditions.
How environmental accidents influence consumer “green” behavior: An econometric analysis
Authors: Hardcopf Rick , Dhanorkar Suvrat
Published: September 2024

Environmental accidents (EAs) are firm operational failures that harm human health, the natural environment, and offending firms. We propose they also initiate a subtle form of activism among consumers living near the accident by stimulating increased “green” behavior. Using annual county‐level data in California from 2000 to 2015, we show that following an EA, consumers reduce the trash/garbage they generate and the energy they consume. The impact is long‐lasting and stronger when EAs are more severe and when consumers have pro‐environmental beliefs, ready access to information, and convenient access to “green” options, such as recycling. Since affected consumers may also refuse to buy from, invest in, or work for offending companies, the results suggest that firms should develop environmental strategies, which include engaging and collaborating with local communities. The study results also provide input for the development of initiatives, which maximize consumer “green” behavior after, or in the absence of, an EA.
Enhancing medical anatomy education with the integration of virtual reality into traditional lab settings
Authors: Neyem Andres , Cadile Matías , Burgos‐Martínez Sebastián A. , Farfán Cabello Emilio , Inzunza Oscar , Alvarado Macarena Soto , Tubbs R. Shane , Ottone Nicolás E.
Published: September 2024

In medical education, traditional anatomy labs have relied heavily on the hands‐on dissection of cadavers to teach the complex spatial relationships within the human body. However, the advent of virtual reality (VR) technology offers the potential for significantly enhancing this traditional approach by providing immersive, interactive 3D visualizations that can overcome some of the limitations of physical specimens. This study explores the integration of VR into a traditional gross anatomy lab to enrich the learning experience for medical students. Methods included the deployment of a VR application developed to complement the dissection process, featuring detailed 3D models of human anatomy that students could manipulate and explore digitally. Approximately 60 s‐year medical students participated in the lab, where they engaged with both traditional dissection and the VR application. Results indicated that the VR integration not only increased engagement and satisfaction but also improved the students' ability to understand anatomical structures and their spatial relationships. Moreover, feedback from students suggested more efficient learning and retention than with traditional methods alone. We conclude that VR technology can significantly enhance medical anatomy education by providing an adjunct to traditional dissection, potentially replacing certain aspects of physical specimens with digital simulations that offer repeatable, detailed exploration without the associated logistical and ethical constraints.
Recovery of Berry Natural Products Using Pyrene‐Based MOF Solid Phase Extraction
Authors: Hurley Tara , Remcho Vincent T. , Stylianou Kyriakos C.
Published: September 2024

This work introduces a novel method of recovering bioactive berry natural products (BNPs) using solid phase extraction with metal‐organic frameworks (MOF‐SPE). Two pyrene‐based MOFs with different structural topologies, Al‐PyrMOF and Zr‐NU‐1000, were evaluated for their ability to capture and desorb BNPs, including ellagic acid, quercetin, gallic acid, and p‐coumaric acid. Time‐dependent BNP uptake via dispersive SPE revealed that NU‐1000 outperformed Al‐PyrMOF in capturing all BNPs. Our findings show NU‐1000 demonstrated a higher and more consistent BNP capture profile, achieving over 90 % capture of all BNPs within 36 h, with only a 9 % variation between the most and least effectively captured BNPs. In contrast, Al‐PyrMOF, displayed a staggered uptake profile, with a significant 53 % difference in capture efficiency between the most and least effectively captured BNP. However, when a BNP mixture was used at a loading concentration of 50 μg/mL, Al‐PyrMOF outperformed NU‐1000, capturing over 70 % of all BNPs. Al‐PyrMOF also exhibited improved BNP recovery, with a minimum of two‐fold greater amount recovered for all BNPs. Further testing with a BNP mixture at a concentration of 15 μg/mL demonstrated that Al‐PyrMOF efficiently concentrated all BNPs, achieving a maximum extraction factor of 2.71 observed for quercetin. These findings highlight the use of Al‐PyrMOF as a MOF‐SPE sorbent for recovering bioactive BNPs.
Conformational Switching of a Nano‐Size Urea‐Bridged Zn(II)Porphyrin Dimer by External Stimuli
Authors: Saha Bapan , Pal Chandrani , Malik Himani , Gopakumar Thiruvancheril G. , Rath Sankar Prasad
Published: September 2024

For the first time, explicit stabilization of all the three conformers, viz. (cis,cis), (cis,trans) and (trans,trans), of a ‘nano‐sized’ highly‐flexible urea‐bridged Zn(II)porphyrin dimer have been achieved via careful manipulations of external stimuli such as solvent dielectrics, temperature, anionic interactions, axial ligation and surface‐induced stabilization. The conformers differ widely in their structures, chemical and photophysical properties and thus have vast potential applicability. X‐ray structural characterizations have been reported for the (cis,cis) and (cis,trans)‐conformers. While (cis,cis) conformer stabilized exclusively in dichloromethane, more polar solvents resulted in the stabilization of (cis,trans) and (trans,trans)‐conformers. Low temperature promotes the stabilization of (cis,trans)‐conformer while rise in temperature facilitates flipping to the (cis,cis) one. Significantly, exclusive stabilization of the (trans,trans)‐isomer has been illustrated using acetate anion which facilitates H‐bonding with the two amide linkages of the urea spacer. Remarkably, HOPG surface facilitates stabilization of the energetically challenging (trans,trans)‐conformer via CH⋅⋅⋅π and π⋅⋅⋅π interactions with the solid surface to the porphyrinic cores. DFT calculations demonstrate that the relative stability of the conformers can be modulated upon slight external perturbations as also observed in the experiment. Several factors contributing towards the conformational landscape for the highly flexible urea‐bridged porphyrin dimers have been mapped.
Genitourinary cancer and family: The reverberating psychological and cardiovascular effects of a genitourinary cancer diagnosis on first‐degree relatives and spouses
Authors: Choudry Mouneeb M. , Murray Nicole , Dindinger‐Hill Kassandra , Ambrose Jacob , Hunt Trevor C. , Horns Joshua , Martin Christopher , Haaland Benjamin , Lowrance William , Hanson Heidi A. , Matern Richard , Cartwright Patrick C. , O’Neil Brock
Published: September 2024

Background

The psychological and cardiovascular health impacts on family members of patients who have been diagnosed with cancer have not been well characterized. The purpose of this study is to determine whether a family member’s cancer diagnosis influences the risk of psychological illness and cardiovascular disease in first‐degree relatives and spouses of patients affected by cancer.

Methods

This retrospective cohort analysis evaluated the risk of psychological illness and cardiovascular disease in first‐degree relatives and spouses of patients diagnosed with a genitourinary cancer between 1990 and 2015 compared to relatives of those not diagnosed with a genitourinary cancer. The Utah Population Database was used and familial linkage was determined. Follow‐up included 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year intervals. Patients residing outside of Utah and first‐degree relatives and spouses with psychological or cardiovascular disease diagnosed before a family member’s cancer diagnosis were excluded.

Results

A total of 49,284 patients with a genitourinary cancer were identified with 77,938 first‐degree relatives and spouses. A matched control group included 246,775 patients with 81,022 first‐degree relatives and spouses. Via Cox proportional hazards models, a 10% increased risk of developing a psychological illness (hazard ratio [HR], 1.10; 95% CI, 1.00–1.20) and a 28% increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.17–1.41) at 1 year after a family member’s cancer diagnosis were found.

Conclusions

This study provides population‐level evidence to support the hypothesis that cancer diagnoses will lead to adverse health outcomes for family members of patients with cancer. Increased clinical attention and support are needed to reduce the harm to families caused by cancer.
The Influence of Halogen Anions on the Color/Fluorescence Dual‐Switching Behaviors of 1,10‐Phenanthroline‐Based Viologen Derivatives
Authors: Zhuang Yanling , Zhang Qidong , Lin Xiaquan
Published: September 2024

Stimuli‐responsive color/fluorescence dual‐switchable materials have garnered significant attention in displays, sensors, and anti‐counterfeiting. However, current material systems are hampered by the single stimulus‐response and unregulated fluorescence. Viologen derivatives featuring fluorophore as N‐substituent and halogen anions as counteranions not only exhibit responsiveness to both electric and light stimuli but also enable adjustable emission. In this work, we explored the influence of halogen anions on the color/fluorescence dual‐switching behaviors of 1,10‐phenanthroline‐based viologen derivatives. The energy level gaps for phen‐Vio[2Cl−] (2.93 eV), phen‐Vio[2Br−] (2.67 eV), and phen‐Vio[2I−] (2.34 eV) decreased with the decrease of electron affinity of halogen anions (Cl−>Br−>I−), which leads to a sequential improvement in their electrochromic/electrofluorochromic and photochromic/photofluorochromic properties. This work has important guidance for the design and development of smart materials and their optoelectronic devices.
Morphology‐Controlled Synthesis of Hierarchical Copper Hydroxyphosphate Microcrystals in Alkaline Buffer Solution and their Optical Properties
Authors: Zhao Yiyang , Chen Hao , Li Gaogao , Shao Yonghui , Liu Xiaodi
Published: September 2024

A series of copper hydroxyphosphate (Cu2(OH)PO4) microcrystals with different shapes, including straw sheaf‐like microcrystals, microrods‐assembled microflowers, four‐edged arrow‐like microcrystals, and four‐pointed star‐like dendrites, are prepared by a hydrothermal method in Na2HPO4‐NaOH buffer solutions. The buffer solutions serve as both reactant and solvent. More importantly, the pH values of the alkaline buffer solutions significantly affect the morphologies of Cu2(OH)PO4 microcrystals. Four samples have absorption bands in the near‐ultraviolet, visible, and near‐infrared regions; furthermore, four Cu2(OH)PO4 microcrystals exhibit different band gap energies (3.06, 2.78, 2.68, and 2.39 eV) owing to their different structures. This strategy can be scaled up for the simple, green, and low‐cost production of Cu2(OH)PO4 microcrystals.