bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil bacterial community and ecosystem multifunctionality regulated by keystone plant species during secondary succession
Authors: Shang Ruiguang , Li Shuaifeng , Huang Xiaobo , Liu Wande , Lang Xuedong , Xu Chonghua , Su Jianrong
Published: September 2023

Plants and soil bacteria exert a vital function in mediating soil ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF). Nevertheless, plant and soil bacteria interaction during forest secondary succession is poorly understood, and their roles in soil EMF remain largely unexplored. The dynamics of soil physicochemical properties and bacterial diversity was studied in southwest China during forest succession from coniferous to monsoon broadleaf evergreen. Interdomain ecological networks (IDEN) were adopted for investigating plant–bacteria associations. With the purpose of assessing how soil factors, bacterial community and plant diversity influenced soil EMF, the structural equation model (SEM) was used. It was discovered that both soil bacterial diversity and soil EMF gradually increased with the succession. IDEN analysis revealed that plant–bacteria ecological networks differed significantly across successional stages. Keystone plant species richness (KSR) increased with succession, which benefited soil bacteria diversity (path coefficient = 0.802, p < 0.001) while having a direct negative impact on pH (path coefficient = −0.602, p < 0.05) and C:N (path coefficient = −0.759, p < 0.001). Soil pH and C:N ratio declines were observed during forest secondary succession and were found to be inversely related to soil EMF. Furthermore, soil pH was found to be inversely related to bacterial diversity. The SEM analysis explained 88.2% of the variation in soil multifunctionality. The findings suggested that keystone plant species played a key function in regulating the variations of soil bacterial community and EMF (total effect = 0.813). Our study clarified the critical functions of keystone species in driving soil bacterial diversity and multifunctionality during forest succession and provided a new perspective on the relationship between above‐ and below‐ground.
Airway management during unusual tracheal stenosis: A clinical feasibility trial
Authors: Altun Demet , Canbaz Mert , Altun Dilek , Sen Cömert , Çamcı Emre
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Prolonged intubation is a known risk factor of LTS. LTS related to COVID‐19 may result in a different phenotype: pronation affects the location of stenosis and COVID‐19 pneumonia can decline lung mechanics. Therefore, airway management in these patients may carry unique challenges for both anesthesiologists and surgeons.

This prospective observational feasibility trial aims to evaluate the use of a novel thin, cuffed, endotracheal tube (Tritube) in combination with flow‐controlled ventilation (FCV) in the management of patients with COVID‐19‐related LTS undergoing laryngeal surgery.

Methods

20 patients suffering from COVID‐19‐related LTS, as diagnosed by CT, requiring endolaryngeal surgery, with or without CO2 laser, were included. Ultrathin endotracheal tube Tritube, together with FCV was used for airway management and ventilation. Feasibility, ventilation efficiency, and surgical exposure were evaluated.

Results

Median duration of mechanical ventilation during their ICU stay was 17 days, (range, 7–27), and all patients had been pronated. In 18/20 patients, endoscopic diagnosis confirmed the initial CT diagnosis: posterior subglottic stenosis. Surgeons’ satisfaction on the view was rated 9 out of 10 (range 7–10), where 0 was the worst view and 10 was the best view. Hemodynamic and respiratory variables were within the normal clinical range during the surgical procedure. One patient that had a SpO2 of 90% before induction of anesthesia, a temporal drop to 89%, caused meeting the predefined requirement of “respiratory complication.”

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of using Tritube with FCV in patients with relatively unusual subglottic posterior location tracheal stenosis, undergoing laryngotracheal surgery. Tritube provides a good surgical field and FCV provides highly adequate ventilation especially in patients with compromised lung mechanics.

Level of Evidence

IV, non‐comparitive prospective clinical trial with 20 patients.
Diazotrophy in the Indian Ocean: Current understanding and future perspectives
Authors: Chowdhury Subhadeep , Raes Eric , Hörstmann Cora , Ahmed Ayaz , Ridame Céline , Metzl Nicolas , Bhavya P S , Sato Takuya , Shiozaki Takuhei , Bonnet Sophie , Löscher Carolin R. , Singh Arvind , Benavides Mar
Published: September 2023

Dinitrogen (N2) fixation provides the major source of reactive nitrogen in the open ocean, sustaining biological productivity. The Indian Ocean (IO) covers 22% of the ocean surface, while it only represents 1% of the global diazotroph database. Hence, constraining the sources of nitrogen in the IO is crucial. Here, we compile three decades of N2 fixation and diazotroph DNA data in the IO. Our analysis reveals basin‐scale yearly rates between ~ 7 and 13 Tg N yr−1. These rates are in the range of previous modeling‐based estimates but may represent a lower bound estimate due to the lack of data in this basin. Diazotroph variability among sub‐basins may suggest endemicity but needs to be taken with caution due to biased sampling toward certain seasons and uneven spatial coverage. We provide recommendations for a more accurate representation of the IO in the global nitrogen budget and our knowledge of diazotroph biogeography.
Therapeutic Potential Evaluation of Silk Sericin Stabilized Fisetin to Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Wang Chunru , Xiang Yingjie , Ma Wenjie , Guo Chuanlong , Wu Xiaochen
Published: September 2023

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with a high recurrence rate. Natural phytochemical compounds are increasingly being considered as preventative and supportive treatments for this condition. However, the poor water solubility and stability of many of these compounds limit their effectiveness in vivo. To address this issue, fisetin (FT), a natural phytochemical with poor solubility, is stabilized using silk sericin (SS) to create a composite (SS/FT). The therapeutic potential of the SS/FT on ulcerative colitis is extensively investigated, and the results showed that it effectively alleviated the body weight loss and colon length shortening induced by dextran sulfate sodium. Notably, SS/FT downregulated the immune response, decreased colonic histopathological lesions, and reduced the cGAS/STING signal activation. This suggests that SS/FT may offer a promising therapy for treating ulcerative colitis.
Statistical Copolymers that Mimic Aspects of Mussel Adhesive Proteins: Access to Robust Adhesive‐Domains for Non‐Covalent Surface PEGylation
Authors: Peplau Stefan , Neubert Tilmann J. , Balasubramanian Kannan , Polleux Julien , Börner Hans G.
Published: September 2023

Reconstructing functional sequence motifs of proteins, using statistical copolymers greatly reduces the information content, but simplifies synthesis significantly. Key amino acid residues involved in the adhesion of mussel foot proteins are identified. The side‐chain functionalities of Dopa, lysine, and arginine are abstracted and incorporated into acrylate monomers to allow controlled radical polymerization. The resulting Dopa‐acrylate (Y*‐acr), arginine‐acrylate (R‐acr), and lysine‐acrylate (K‐acr) monomers are polymerized in different monomer ratios and compositions by reversible addition fragmentation transfer polymerization with a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) macrochain transfer agent. This results in two sets of PEG‐block‐copolymers with statistical mixtures and different monomer ratios of catechol/primary amine and catechol/guanidine side‐chain functionalities, both important pairs for mimicking π‐cation interactions. The coating behavior of these PEG‐block‐copolymers is evaluated using quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation energy monitoring (QCM‐D), leading to non‐covalent PEGylation of the substrates with clear compositional optima in the coating stability and antifouling properties. The coatings prevent non‐reversible albumin or serum adsorption, as well as reduce cellular adhesion and fungal spore attachment.
Mechanism Study of the Polymerization of Polyamide 56: Reaction Kinetics and Process Parameters
Authors: Zhao Shikun , Gong Shun , Zhao Biao , Hou Like , Zhang Lurong , Hu Qing , Pan Kai
Published: September 2023

Polyamide 56 (PA56) has gained significant attention in the academic field due to its remarkable mechanical and thermal properties as a highly efficient and versatile biobased material. Its superior moisture absorption property also makes it a unique advantage in the realm of fiber textiles. However, despite extensive investigations on PA56's molecular and aggregate state structure, as well as processing modifications, little attention has been paid to its polymerization mechanism. Herein, the influence of temperature and time on PA56's polycondensation reaction is detailed studied by end‐group titration and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. The reaction kinetics equations for the pre‐polymerization and vacuum melt‐polymerization stages of PA56 are established, and possible side reactions during the polycondensation process are analyzed. By optimizing the reaction process based on kinetic characteristics, PA56 resin with superior comprehensive properties (melting temperature of 252.6 °C, degradation temperature of 371.6 °C, and tensile strength of 75 MPa) is obtained. The findings provide theoretical support for the industrial production of high‐quality biobased PA56.
Settlements in the presence of leniency programs: Costs and benefits
Authors: Strathearn Matthew , Chen Zhiqi , Ross Thomas W.
Published: September 2023

Over the last few decades, leniency programs have become important components of anti‐cartel policies in many jurisdictions. An extensive literature shows how such programs can destabilize cartels and even discourage their formation in the first place. Much less studied are settlement policies under which reduced fines are offered to settling parties late in the prosecution (when the probability of conviction is high). In particular, there has been little attention paid to the interaction of leniency and settlement policies. This paper examines whether the availability of late‐stage settlements could negatively impact the effectiveness of early‐stage leniency programs. Our main finding is that an appropriately designed settlement program can make collusion more difficult: In equilibrium, the adoption of an optimal settlement program by the Antitrust Authority reduces the occurrence of cartels by decreasing the long‐run gain from collusion. However, an overly generous settlement policy may undermine leniency programs and encourage the formation of more cartels.
The Impact of Sex‐Specific Survival on the Incidence of Dementia in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Fink Anne , Dodel Richard , Georges Daniela , Doblhammer Gabriele
Published: September 2023

Objective

The aim of our study is to analyze sex‐specific patterns of Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) incidence. We are investigating the extent to which sex differences in survival after initial Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnosis influence differences in PDD risk among PD patients.

Methods

We used a random sample of German longitudinal health claims data of persons ages 50+ (2004–2019; n = 250,000) and identified new PD cases ages 65+ who were followed‐up for a PDD diagnosis or death between 2006 and 2017. We performed Cox and competing‐risk regression models, with death as competing event, to calculate PDD hazard ratios (HR) adjusted for age at PD onset, PD severity as measured by the modified Hoehn and Yahr (HY) scale, comorbidities, and medications.

Results

Of 2195 new PD cases, 602 people died before PDD and 750 people developed PDD by the end of 2017. The adjusted risk of PDD differs by sex, with men having a higher PDD risk than women. When accounting for death, men and women do not differ in their PDD risk (HR = 1.02, P = 0.770). Sex‐specific analyses showed significant age and severity effects in women (age: HR = 1.05, P < 0.001; HY 3–5 vs. 0–2.5: HR = 1.46, P = 0.011), but not in men.

Conclusion

Older age at first PD diagnosis and higher disease severity increase PDD risk, but this association is attenuated for PD men when controlling for death. This implies that the most frail PD men die rapidly before receiving a dementia diagnosis, whereas women with PD survive at higher rates, regardless of their age at onset and disease severity. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Clinical analysis of Gabriele‐de Vries caused by YY1 mutations and literature review
Authors: Yang Jingjing , Yu Chaonan , Lyn Nan , Liu Lei , Li Dongxiao , Shang Qing
Published: September 2023

Background

Gabriele‐de Vries syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disease characterized by global development delay/intellectual disability, delayed language development, feeding difficulties, and distinctive facial dysmorphism. It is caused by pathogenic variants in YY1.

Methods

The current report describes a female patient with motor delay and a facial dysmorphism phenotype. We identified pathogenic mutations in the patient by whole‐exome sequencing and confirmed them by Sanger sequencing.

Results

A novel heterozygous frameshift mutation NM_003403.5:c.458_476del (p. V153fs*97) in the YY1 gene was detected in the proband. Finally, we provide a case‐based review of the clinical features associated with Gabriele‐de Vries syndrome. A total of 28 patients with genetic abnormalities and clinical phenotypes have been reported in the literature thus far.

Conclusions

The mutation site is reported for the first time, and its discovery would expand the mutation spectrum of the YY1 gene. The main clinical manifestations of Gabriele‐de Vries syndrome are developmental delay/intellectual disability, craniofacial dysplasia, intrauterine growth delay, low birth weight, feeding difficulties, and rare congenital malformations. Genetic tests are crucial techniques for its diagnosis because of its nonspecific clinical manifestations.
The Potential Effects of Isoleucine Restricted Diet on Cognitive Impairment in High‐Fat‐Induced Obese Mice via Gut Microbiota–Brain Axis
Authors: Wang Yuli , Rong Xue , Guan Hui , Ouyang Fangxin , Zhou Xing , Li Feng , Tan Xintong , Li Dapeng
Published: September 2023

Scope

Obesity induced by high‐fat diet (HFD) can cause lipid metabolism disorders and cognitive impairment. Isoleucine restriction can effectively alleviate lipid metabolism disorders caused by HFD but the underlying mechanisms on cognition are unknown.

Methods and results

Thirty 3‐month‐old C57BL/6J mice are divided equally into the following groups: the control group, HFD group, and HFD Low Ile group (67% reduction in isoleucine in high fat feeds). Feeding for 11 weeks with behavioral testing, which shows that isoleucine restriction attenuates HFD‐induced cognitive dysfunction. As observed by staining, isoleucine restriction inhibits HFD‐induced neuronal damage and microglia activation. Furthermore, isoleucine restriction significantly increases the relative abundance of gut microbiota, decreases the proportion ofProteobacteria, and reduces the levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in serum and brain. Isoleucine restriction reduces protein expression of TLR4/MyD88/NF‐κB signaling pathway and inhibits upregulation of proinflammatory cytokine genes and protein expression in mice brain. In addition, isoleucine restriction significantly improves insulin resistance in the brain as well as synaptic plasticity impairment.

Conclusion

Isoleucine restriction may be a potential intervention to reduce HFD‐induced cognitive impairment by altering gut microbiota, reducing neuroinflammation, insulin resistance, and improving synaptic plasticity in mice brain.
Anti‐Inflammatory Effects and Macrophage Activation Induced by Bioavailable Cinnamon Polyphenols in Mice
Authors: Song Youngju , Jung Young Sung , Park Sunghyun , Park Hong Shik , Lee Se Jung , Maeng Sungho , Kim Hocheol , Kim Dae‐Ok , Park Kye Won , Kang Hee
Published: September 2023

Scope

Cinnamon is a commonly used spice and herb that is rich in polyphenols. Due to the limited bioavailability of oral polyphenols, it remains unclear to which extent they can reach cells and exert a biological effect. This study aims to investigate the impact of bioavailable cinnamon polyphenols on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated macrophages.

Methods and results

A polyphenol fraction is prepared from cinnamon (Cinnamomi ramulus) (CRPF) by boiling cinnamon in water and adsorbing the extract onto a hydrophobic resin. Mice are orally administered CRPF for 7 days and then subjected to three independent experiments: endotoxemia, serum collection, and macrophage isolation. Upon intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide challenge, CRPF decreases serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, involving suppression of liver and spleen macrophages. When normal macrophages are cultured in serum obtained from CRPF‐treated mice, they exhibit an anti‐inflammatory phenotype. However, macrophages from CRPF‐treated mice show an increased production of inflammatory cytokines when cultured in fetal bovine serum and stimulated with LPS.

Conclusion

The study provides evidence for the presence of bioavailable cinnamon polyphenols with anti‐inflammatory properties and macrophage activation. These findings suggest that cinnamon polyphenols have the potential to modulate macrophage function, which could have implications for reducing inflammation and improving immune function.
Preparation and characterization of polyhydroxyamide composite fibers reinforced with carbon nanotubes—Experiment and computation collaborative approach
Authors: Jee Min Ho , Yeo Moon Jin , Jang Seung Soon , Baik Doo Hyun
Published: September 2023

An experiment‐computation collaborative approach is conducted to investigate and understand the mechanical reinforcement effect of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on polyhydroxyamide (PHA) composite fibers. The experimental studies provide results of PHA composite fibers with enhanced mechanical properties based on well‐dispersed multi‐walled CNTs (MWCNTs) inside the PHA matrix, suggesting optimal conditions for the experiment‐computation collaborative approach in the polymer/CNT composite systems. For instance, adding MWCNTs up to 2.0 wt% results in an improvement of 48.0% in tensile strength, 36.7% in initial modulus, and 69.9% in breaking strain of the composite fibers. FE‐SEM images show that many MWCNTs are partially exposed or pulled out to the outside of the PHA matrix through the tensile fracture in a very homogeneous dispersion state. In addition, the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation study with a single‐walled CNT (SWCNT) exhibits that the overall displacements of PHA molecules near the CNT surface decrease gradually, which indicates that the PHA molecules form an effective interaction with the CNT. Therefore, it is clear that the excellent interaction between PHA and CNTs, obtained from the results of well‐dispersed CNTs (experiment) and the reduction of the overall displacement of PHA molecules near the CNT surface (computation), is a very important clue to support the improved mechanical characteristics of the PHA fibers reinforced with the CNTs. Moreover, we are confident that the combined experimental‐computational approach used this study will yield valuable insights into the design of composite systems.

Highlights

Experiment‐computation collaboration reveals enhanced mechanical properties of PHA composite fibers with well‐dispersed CNTs.

Addition of MWCNTs up to 2.0 wt% improves tensile strength by 48.0%, initial modulus by 36.7%, and breaking strain by 69.9%.

FE‐SEM images demonstrate homogeneous dispersion and partial exposure of MWCNTs in the fractured PHA matrix.

MD simulation shows reduced displacements of PHA molecules near SWCNT surface, indicating effective interaction.

Combined experimental‐computational approach offers valuable insights for designing composite systems.
Lung proliferation is dependent on the duration not the timepoint of tracheal occlusion in nitrofen rats with diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Beck Veronika , Froyen Guy , Deckx Sebastiaan , Sandaite Inga , Deprest Thomas , Plevoets Koen , Deprest Jan A.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Prenatal tracheal occlusion (TO) promotes lung growth and is applied clinically in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Limited data are available regarding the effect of duration versus timepoint of TO. Our objective was to document the impact of TO on lung development in the near‐term period in rats with nitrofen‐induced CDH.

Method

Nitrofen was administered on embryonic day (ED)9 and fetal TO was performed on ED18.5, 19, or 20 (term = ED22). Sham‐operated and untouched littermates served as controls. Lungs were harvested in 0.5‐day steps and only fetuses with a left‐sided CDH were included in further analyses. Healthy fetuses provided a reference for normal near‐term lung development.

Results

Duration of TO in the nitrofen rat model for CDH predicts lung growth in terms of lung‐body‐weight ratio as well as an increased mRNA level of the proliferation marker Ki67. Longer TO also induced a more complex airway architecture. The timepoint of TO was not predictive of lung growth.

Conclusion

In the nitrofen rat model of CDH, a longer period of TO leads to enhanced lung growth and more refined airway architecture.
Preparation of a water‐absorbent mesoporous material and film to simulate the infrared spectrum of plants
Authors: Zhang Siqi , Zhang Jianjun , Zhang Yue , Ma Sude
Published: September 2023

Hyperspectral imaging poses great challenges to traditional camouflage materials, primarily because there is a huge difference between the reflectance spectra of camouflage materials and natural plants in the 1400–2000 nm band. The difficulty of simulating the natural plant spectrum lies in reproducing the absorption peak of water by increasing the water content in a camouflage material. Herein, a mesoporous (MS) material is used to simulate the plant spectrum because such material can absorb and retain a large amount of water. MS was prepared via a two‐step method using tetraethyl orthosilicate and tetrabutyl titanate. The characteristics of the as‐prepared MS were examined via X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet–visible diffusion reflectance spectroscopy and nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms. In addition, a film was prepared using the fully absorbent mesoporous material, and the water content was determined via near‐infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The bonding between the mesoporous material and resin was examined via field emission gun scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties of the film were measured by a pendulum hardness tester and a cylindrical bending tester. The results indicate that low‐temperature synthesis followed by high‐temperature hydrothermal treatment is conducive to expanding the mesopore aperture, reaching a maximum of 23 nm. Moreover, the regular structure of the as‐prepared titanium‐containing mesoporous material is maintained under high hydrothermal temperature. The mesoporous film exhibits a good water absorption capacity of up to 80% by mass and can effectively simulate the spectrum of plants. The mechanical properties of the film are good, and the hardness of the film is related to the content of mesoporous powder. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Social anxiety and phubbing: The mediating role of problematic social networking and the moderating role of family socioeconomic status
Authors: Chu Xiaoyuan , Chen Yuxin , Litifu Alafate , Zhou Yang , Xie Xiaochun , Wei Xinyi , Lei Li
Published: September 2023

Phubbing harms relationships and reduces well‐being of phubbees. However, limited research has explored the potential causes and underlying mechanisms for phubbing; and an important risk factor, social anxiety, has been largely ignored from previous studies. The present study employed a moderated mediation model to examine whether social anxiety was positively related to phubbing, whether problematic social networking mediated the relationship, and whether the first path of this mediating process was moderated by family socioeconomic status. The data of 1379 undergraduates (Mage = 18.84; SD = 0.94) were collected anonymously to test the model. Findings demonstrated that social anxiety was positively linked to phubbing, problematic social networking mediated the linkage, and family socioeconomic status played a moderating role in the first stage. Specifically, the indirect association between social anxiety and phubbing via problematic social networking was stronger for undergraduates with lower family socioeconomic status. Results provide a new perspective for understanding phubbing and highlight the significance of uncovering the underlying mechanisms.
Half‐Metallicity in Ni2XMn Heusler Alloys (X = Fe, Co, Cr): Ab Initio Calculations
Authors: Alés Alejandro
Published: September 2023

Ab initio calculations have been conducted on all‐d light transition metals featuring full and inverse Heusler structures with the composition Ni2XMn, where X = Fe, Co, Cr. The analysis encompasses lattice parameters, bulk modulus, and formation energy, which are thoroughly examined across various magnetic orders. Additionally, the equilibrium structures are comprehensively characterized. Elastic constants are calculated and mechanical stability is thoroughly discussed. Furthermore, tetragonal distortions, following the Bain path, are computed, and a novel stable structure is introduced. Spin‐resolved density of electronic states and band structures are scrutinized in detail. The findings reveal a behavior consistent with half‐metallicity, even though the gaps between the conduction and valence bands are exceedingly small.
Adaptive tracking control for random nonlinear system
Authors: Yao Liqiang , Feng Likang , Wu Zhaojing
Published: September 2023

In this note, we consider a class of strict‐feedback random nonlinear system with unknown parameters,which is different from nonlinear systems described by Itó stochastic differential equations. The skills to deal with the effect of Wiener process for stochastic nonlinear systems are not suitable for random nonlinear system. We employ separation technique to design an adaptive backstepping controller such that the output can practically track a given signal and other signals are bounded in probability. A simulation example is presented to demonstrate reasonability and efficiency of the proposed method. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy and the social contract: From “energy consumers” to “people with a right to energy”
Authors: Jiglau George , Hesselman Marlies , Dobbins Audrey , Grossmann Katrin , Guyet Rachel , Tirado Herrero Sergio , Varo Anaïs
Published: September 2023

Throughout the last decade, the goal of acknowledging and alleviating energy poverty has made its way to the core of energy policies across the world, including the high‐standing SDG7 as a benchmark. While much debate is still devoted to conceptual and empirical clarifications, its measurement through indicators, or the appropriate policies aimed at tackling it, there is widespread acceptance that energy poverty impacts tens of millions of lives across Europe and beyond. More recently, energy poverty has been deepened by a succession of international crises. We argue that the responses currently enacted to address energy poverty, in the context of these overlapping crises, point to a more profound problem that pre‐existed the crises and reflects the current paradigm for household energy access. In this article, we aim to tie some of the loose ends in debates around the right to energy. We address some essential underpinnings of a rights‐based approach to energy, by connecting existing narratives to the broader scope of the social contract, used as a concept which bears implications on the social and economic arrangements emphasized by the fundamental pillars of SDGs. We argue that, because energy markets are highly sensitive to instability and crisis contexts, there is a need to shift the paradigm from energy as a commodity purchased by consumers from markets towards energy as a right of people living in modern political communities, and tailoring energy policies around the right to energy.
Engineering Self‐Adaptive Multi‐Response Thermochromic Hydrogel for Energy‐Saving Smart Windows and Wearable Temperature‐Sensing
Authors: Xie Long , Wang Xuechuan , Zou Xiaoliang , Bai Zhongxue , Liang Shuang , Wei Chao , Zha Siyu , Zheng Manhui , Zhou Yi , Yue Ouyang , Liu Xinhua
Published: September 2023

Buildings account for ≈40% of the total energy consumption. In addition, it is challenging to control the indoor temperature in extreme weather. Therefore, energy‐saving smart windows with light regulation have gained increasing attention. However, most emerging base materials for smart windows have disadvantages, including low transparency at low temperatures, ultra‐high phase transition temperature, and scarce applications. Herein, a self‐adaptive multi‐response thermochromic hydrogel (PHC‐Gel) with dual temperature and pH response is engineered through “one‐pot” integration tactics. The PHC‐Gel exhibits excellent mechanical, adhesion, and electrical conductivity properties. Notably, the low critical solubility temperature (LCST) of PHC‐Gel can be regulated over a wide temperature range (20–35 °C). The outdoor practical testing reveals that PHC‐Gel has excellent light transmittance at low temperatures and radiation cooling performances at high temperatures, indicating that PHC‐Gel can be used for developing energy‐saving windows. Actually, PHC‐Gel‐based thermochromic windows show remarkable visible light transparency (Tlum ≈ 95.2%) and solar modulation (△Tsol ≈ 57.2%). Interestingly, PHC‐Gel has superior electrical conductivity, suggesting that PHC‐Gel can be utilized to fabricate wearable signal‐response and temperature sensors. In summary, PHC‐Gel has broad application prospects in energy‐saving smart windows, smart wearable sensors, temperature monitors, infant temperature detection, and thermal management.
Tailoring Phase Distribution of Quasi‐2D Perovskites via Taurine‐Assistance Enables Efficient Blue Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Qi Zifu , Yuan Longfei , Ding Weigang , Qin Zhanpeng , Wang Shirong , Liu Hongli , Li Xianggao
Published: September 2023

Quasi‐2D (Q‐2D) perovskites with typical varied n‐phase structures deserve promising candidates in pursuing high‐performance perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs). Whereas their weakness in precise n‐phase distribution control disables the optical property of PeLEDs since the n = 1 phase is dominated by severe nonradiative recombination. Here, an effective phase distribution tailoring strategy is developed for pure blue PeLEDs by introducing taurine (TAU) into mixed halide Q‐2D perovskites. The sulfonic acid group in TAU can coordinate with Pb2+ to suppress the formation of the n = 1 phase while promoting the growth of Q‐2D perovskites into domains with the graded distribution of n = 2 and 3. The amino group in TAU forms hydrogen bonds with electronegative halide ions, suppressing the formation of halide vacancies and reducing the defect density in the Q‐2D perovskite films. As a result, optimized blue Q‐2D perovskite films boosted PLQY to 92%. Target blue PeLED  was endowed with a peak EQE of 14.82% (average 12.6%) at 475 nm and a maximum luminance of 1937 cd m−2, which is among the reported high‐level pure blue PeLEDs. This work demonstrates a feasible approach to regulate the phase distribution of Q‐2D perovskites for high‐performance blue PeLEDs.
Grafted Alkene Chains: Triggers for Defeating Contact Thermal Resistance in Composite Elastomers
Authors: Yang Min , Pang Yunsong , Li Junhong , Zhou Wei , Ren Linlin , Sun Rong , Zeng Xiaoliang
Published: September 2023

The pursuit of enhancing the heat transfer performance of composite elastomers as the thermal interface materials (TIMs) is a compelling and timely endeavor, given the formidable challenges posed by interfacial thermal transport in the domains of energy science, electronic technology, etc. Despite the efficacy of phase change materials (PCMs) in enhancing composite elastomers’ interfacial compatibility, thereby reducing contact thermal resistance for heat transfer improvement, their leakage post‐transition has impeded the widespread adoption of this approach. Herein, a strategy is proposed for developing a solid‐solid phase change composite elastomer by grafting alkene chains onto the crosslink network to eliminate the possibility of leakage. A series characterization suggest that the resulting material possesses a self‐adjusting interfacial compatibility feature to help reduce contact thermal resistance for heat transfer facilitating. The investigations on adhesion strength and surface energy reveal that the presence of amorphous grafted alkane chains at the interface facilitates easier absorption onto the contacting solid surface, enhancing intermolecular interactions at the interface to promote across‐boundary heat transfer. By integrating these findings with the thermal performance evaluation of composite elastomers using a real test vehicle, valuable insights are gained for the design of composite elastomers, establishing their suitability as TIMs in relevant fields.
pH Tunable Patterning of Quantum Dots
Authors: Torun Ilker , Huang Conan , Kalay Mustafa , Shim Moonsub , Onses M. Serdar
Published: September 2023

Patterning of quantum dots (QDs) is essential for many, especially high‐tech, applications. Here, pH tunable assembly of QDs over functional patterns prepared by electrohydrodynamic jet printing of poly(2‐vinylpyridine) is presented. The selective adsorption of QDs from water dispersions is mediated by the electrostatic interaction between the ligand composed of 3‐mercaptopropionic acid and patterned poly(2‐vinylpyridine). The pH of the dispersion provides tunability at two levels. First, the adsorption density of QDs and fluorescence from the patterns can be modulated for pH > ≈4. Second, patterned features show unique type of disintegration resulting in randomly positioned features within areas defined by the printing for pH ≤ ≈4. The first capability is useful for deterministic patterning of QDs, whereas the second one enables hierarchically structured encoding of information by generating stochastic features of QDs within areas defined by the printing. This second capability is exploited for generating addressable security labels based on unclonable features. Through image analysis and feature matching algorithms, it is demonstrated that such patterns are unclonable in nature and provide a suitable platform for anti‐counterfeiting applications. Collectively, the presented approach not only enables effective patterning of QDs, but also establishes key guidelines for addressable assembly of colloidal nanomaterials.
Gram‐Scale Mechanochemical Synthesis of Atom‐Layer MoS2 Semiconductor Electrocatalyst via Functionalized Graphene Quantum Dots for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Hu Bingjie , Wu Yao , Wang Kang , Guo Huazhang , Lei Zhendong , Liu Zheng , Wang Liang
Published: September 2023

The development of advanced and efficient synthetic methods is pivotal for the widespread application of 2D materials. In this study, a facile and scalable solvent‐free mechanochemical approach is approached, employing graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as exfoliation agents, for the synthesis and functionalization of nearly atom‐layered MoS2 nanosheets (ALMS). The resulting ALMS exhibits an ultrathin average thickness of 4 nm and demonstrates high solvent stability. The impressive yield of ALMS reached 63%, indicating its potential for scalable production of stable nanosheets. Remarkably, the ALMS catalyst exhibits excellent HER performance. Moreover, the ALMS catalyst showcases exceptional long‐term durability, maintaining stable performance for nearly 200 h, underscoring its potential as a highly efficient and durable electrocatalyst. Significantly, the catalytic properties of ALMS are significantly influenced by ball milling production conditions. The GQD‐assisted large‐scale machinery synthesis pathway provides a promising avenue for the development of efficient and high‐performance ultrathin 2D materials.
High‐Efficiency and Emission‐Tunable Inorganic Blue Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on Vacuum Deposition
Authors: He Zhiyuan , Peng Chencheng , Guo Runda , Chen Ben , Li Xin , Zhu Xiangyu , Zhang Jian , Liang Wenxi , Wang Lei
Published: September 2023

The fabrication of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) with vacuum deposition shows great potential and commercial value in realizing large‐area display panel manufacturing. However, the electroluminescence (EL) performance of vacuum‐deposited PeLEDs still lags behind the counterparts fabricated by solution process, especially in the field of blue PeLEDs. Here, the fabrication of high‐quality CsPbBr3−xClx film through tri‐source co‐evaporation is reported to achieve high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY). Compared with the conventional traditional dual‐source co‐evaporation, the tri‐source co‐evaporation method allows for freely adjustable elemental ratios, enabling the introduction of the lattice‐matched Cs4Pb(Br/Cl)6 phase with the quantum‐limited effect into the inorganic CsPb(Br/Cl)3 emitter. By adjusting the phase distribution, the surface defects of the emitter can be effectively reduced, leading to better blue emission and film quality. Further, the effects of Cs/Pb ratio and Br/Cl ratio on the PLQY and carrier recombination dynamics of perovskite films are investigated. By optimizing the deposition rate of each precursor source, spectrally stable blue PeLEDs are achieved with tunable emission ranging from 468 to 488 nm. Particularly, the PeLEDs with an EL peak at 488 nm show an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 4.56%, which is the highest EQE value for mixed‐halide PeLEDs fabricated by vacuum deposition.
Constructing Nanoporous Ir/Ta2O5 Interfaces on Metallic Glass for Durable Acidic Water Oxidation
Authors: Qiao Yijing , Luo Min , Cai Lebin , Kao Cheng‐wei , Lan Jiao , Meng Linghu , Lu Ying‐Rui , Peng Ming , Ma Chao , Tan Yongwen
Published: September 2023

Although proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers (PEMWE) are considered as a promising technique for green hydrogen production, it remains crucial to develop intrinsically effective oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts with high activity and durability. Here, a flexible self‐supporting electrode with nanoporous Ir/Ta2O5 electroactive surface is reported for acidic OER via dealloying IrTaCoB metallic glass ribbons. The catalyst exhibits excellent electrocatalytic OER performance with an overpotential of 218 mV for a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 46.1 mV dec−1 in acidic media, superior to most electrocatalysts. More impressively, the assembled PEMWE with nanoporous Ir/Ta2O5 as an anode shows exceptional performance of electrocatalytic hydrogen production and can operate steadily for 260 h at 100 mA cm−2. In situ spectroscopy characterizations and density functional theory calculations reveal that the modest adsorption of OOH* intermediates to active Ir sites lower the OER energy barrier, while the electron donation behavior of Ta2O5 to stabilize the high‐valence states of Ir during the OER process extended catalyst's durability.
Dual Heterojunction of Etched MIL‐68(In)‐NH2 Supported Heptazine‐/Triazine‐Based Carbon Nitride for Improved Visible‐Light Nitrogen Reduction
Authors: Sun Qiufan , Zhu Yuxiang , Zhong Xiang , Wang Yan , Jiang Meng , Jia Zhengtao , Yao Jianfeng
Published: September 2023

This work reports a dual heterojunction of etched MIL‐68(In)‐NH2 (MN) supported heptazine‐/triazine‐based carbon nitride (HTCN) via a facile hydrothermal process for photocatalytic ammonia (NH3) synthesis. By applying the hydrothermal treatment, MN microrods are chemically etched into hollow microtubes, and HTCN with nanorod array structures are simultaneously tightly anchored on the outside surface of the microtubes. With the addition of 9 wt% HTCN, the resulting dual heterojunction presents an enhanced photocatalytic ammonia yield rate of 5.57 mm gcat−1 h−1 with an apparent quantum efficiency of 10.89% at 420 nm. Moreover, stable ammonia generation using seawater, tap water, lake water, and turbid water in the absence of sacrificial reagents verifies the potential of the dual‐heterojunction composites as a commercially viable photosystem. The obtained one‐dimensional (1D) microtubes and coating of HTCN confers this unique composite with extended visible‐light harvesting and accelerated charge carrier migration via a multi‐stepwise charge transfer pathway. This work provides a new strategy for optimizing nitrogen (N2)‐into‐ammonia conversion efficiency by designing novel dual‐heterojunction catalysts.
Controllable Synthesis of Highly Symmetrical Streamlined Structure for Wideband Microwave Absorption
Authors: Qian Yuetong , Lv Xiaowei , Lv Hualiang , Wu Zhengchen , Zhang Huibin , Liu Min , Yang Liting , Zhao Biao , Luo Kaicheng , Zhang Jincang , Che Renchao
Published: September 2023

Highly symmetrical and streamlined nanostructures possessing unique electron scattering, electron‐phonon coupling, and electron confinement characteristics have attracted a lot of attention. However, the controllable synthesis of such a nanostructure with regulated shapes and sizes remains a huge challenge. In this work, a peanut‐like MnO@C structure, assembled by two core–shell nanosphere is developed via a facile hydrogen ion concentration regulation strategy. Off‐axis electron holography technique, charge reconstruction, and COMSOL Multiphysics simulation jointly reveal the unique electronic distribution and confirm its higher dielectric sensitive ability, which can be used as microwave absorption to deal with currently electromagnetic pollution. The results reveal that the peanut‐like core–shell MnO@C exhibits great wideband properties with effective absorption bandwidth of 6.6 GHz, covering 10.8–17.2 GHz band. Inspired by this structure‐induced sensitively dielectric behavior, promoting the development of symmetrical and streamlined nanostructure would be attractive for many other promising applications in the future, such as piezoelectric material and supercapacitor and electromagnetic shielding.
Interphase Engineering Enhanced Electro‐chemical Stability of Prelithiated Anode
Authors: Xu Shiwei , Fang Qiu , Wu Jipeng , Weng Suting , Li Xiaoyun , Liu Qiuyan , Wang Qiyu , Yu Xiqian , Chen Liquan , Li Yejing , Wang Zhaoxiang , Wang Xuefeng
Published: September 2023

Prelithiation is an essential technology to compensate for the initial lithium loss of lithium‐ion batteries due to the formation of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and irreversible structure change. However, the prelithiated materials/electrodes become more reactive with air and electrolyte resulting in unwanted side reactions and contaminations, which makes it difficult for the practical application of prelithiation technology. To address this problem, herein, interphase engineering through a simple solution treatment after chemical prelithiation is proposed to protect the prelithiated electrode. The used solutions are carefully selected, and the composition and nanostructure of the as‐formed artificial SEIs are revealed by cryogenic electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The electrochemical evaluation demonstrates the unique merits of this artificial SEI, especially for the fluorinated interphase, which not only enhances the interfacial ion transport but also increases the tolerance of the prelithiated electrode to the air. The treated graphite electrode shows an initial Coulombic efficiency of 129.4%, a high capacity of 170 mAh g−1 at 3 C, and negligible capacity decay after 200 cycles at 1 C. These findings not only provide a facile, universal, and controllable method to construct an artificial SEI but also enlighten the upgrade of battery fabrication and the alternative use of advanced electrolytes.
Inhibiting Mg Diffusion and Evaporation by Forming Mg‐Rich Reservoir at Grain Boundaries Improves the Thermal Stability of N‐Type Mg3Sb2 Thermoelectrics
Authors: Geng Yang , Li Zerong , Lin Zehao , Liu Yali , Lai Qiangwen , Wu Xuelian , Hu Lipeng , Liu Fusheng , Yu Yuan , Zhang Chaohua
Published: September 2023

N‐type Mg3Sb2‐based thermoelectric materials show great promise in power generation due to their mechanical robustness, low cost of Mg, and high figure of merit (ZT) over a wide range of temperatures. However, their poor thermal stability hinders their practical applications. Here, MgB2 is introduced to improve the thermal stability of n‐type Mg3Sb2. Enabled by MgB2 decomposition, extra Mg can be released into the matrix for Mg compensation thermodynamically, and secondary phases of Mg─B compounds can kinetically prevent Mg diffusion along grain boundaries. These synergetic effects inhibit the formation of Mg vacancies at elevated temperatures, thereby enhancing the thermal stability of n‐type Mg3Sb2. Consequently, the Mg3.05(Sb0.75Bi0.25)1.99Te0.01(MgB2)0.03 sample exhibits negligible variation in thermoelectric performance during the 120‐hour continuous measurement at 673 K. Moreover, the ZT of n‐type Mg3Sb2 can be maintained by adding MgB2, reaching a high average ZT of ≈1.1 within 300–723 K. An eight‐pair Mg3Sb2‐GeTe‐based thermoelectric device is also fabricated, achieving an energy conversion efficiency of ≈5.7% at a temperature difference of 438 K with good thermal stability. This work paves a new way to enhance the long‐term thermal stability of n‐type Mg3Sb2‐based alloys and other thermoelectrics for practical applications.
Hydrogen Bond Boosted Ferroelectric Polarization Enables High Rate Capability Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Wenran , Ma Li , Xu Baolei , Zhu Hai , Zhang Chunxiao , Chen Libao , Wei Weifeng
Published: September 2023

Lithium metal is considered as a promising anode material for next generation lithium‐based batteries due to its highest specific capacity and lowest reduction potential. However, irreversible lithium stripping/depositing gives rise to severe dendritic growth and countless dead lithium, which lead to rapid electrochemical performance degradation and increased safety hazards, and thus limit its large‐scale application. Herein, this work demonstrates a universal hydrogen‐bond‐induced strategy to in situ form a highly polarized ferroelectric polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) coating on the anode current collector. The localized electric field induced by the polarized ferroelectric PVDF can accelerate the migration of lithium ions and alleviate the shortage of lithium ions and uneven ion/electron distribution and transfer at the anode/electrolyte interface, thus promoting uniform deposition and stripping of Li+ at high‐rate situations. As a result, the symmetrical Li || Li batteries with polarized PVDF coating exhibit a long cycling lifespan over 900 h under 2 mA cm−2 with marginal voltage polarization, and an ultra‐high‐rate performance up to 8.85 mA cm−2. The full cells using LiFePO4 cathode also display enhanced electrochemical performance. The innovative strategy of ferroelectric polarization sheds light on interface engineering to circumvent Li dendrite growth in lithium metal batteries (LMBs).