bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing Physicochemical Performances of 3D Printed Carbon Fiber Composites During 8‐Month Exposure to Space Environment
Authors: Di Trani Nicola , Masini Attilio , Bo Tommaso , Paci Marco Maria , Batra Jaskirat Singh , Reggiani Maurizio , Grattoni Alessandro
Published: December 2023

Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) offer exceptional properties that make them highly relevant in the aerospace industry, such as high thermal conductivity and an outstanding strength‐to‐weight ratio. Advances in additive manufacturing have expanded the aerospace applications of CFRPs, even allowing for in‐space fabrication of complex structures. Understanding the stability of CFRPs in the harsh conditions of low Earth orbit (LEO) is crucial. LEO exposes materials to extreme environmental factors, such as vacuum, radiation, atomic oxygen, and temperature fluctuations, which can accelerate degradation. To investigate the space‐environment effect on material, changes in properties of 3D‐printed CFRPs are compared with CFRPs made through forging and conventional compression molding. Surface analyses examine morphological, chemical, and matrix composition changes, along with an evaluation of mechanical integrity. Remarkably, the naked 3D printed CFRPs withstood 8 months of LEO exposure similar to the compression molded CFRP samples, with changes in chemical properties limited to the sample's outer surface. Further, despite no protective coatings are used, limited surface erosion and no variation in mechanical strength are observed. These results provide relevant information for the development and deployment of novel 3D printed CFRPs materials for a wide spectrum of terrestrial and space applications.
Tidal Mixed Ionic/Electronic Conductive Interlayer Enables Supersmooth Lithium Deposition for Stable Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Yao Haidi , Niu Fang , Ma Changjing , You Xingzi , Ning De , Qian Jiutong , Wang Man , Duan Qiange , Yang Cheng , Wu Qilong , Wang Jun , Zhang Jie , Lu Zhenhuan , Yang Chunlei , Wu Wei
Published: December 2023

Lithium metal is the ultimate anode material for Li‐based battery chemistries with high energy density. However, inhomogeneous charge distribution derived from the unbalanced ion/electron transport is usually generated at the electrode/electrolyte interface, leading to uncontrollable dendrite growth with poor reversibility. Herein, a mixed ionic/electronic conductive (MIEC) interlayer activated from the in situ conversion and nano‐alloying reactions between the sputtered AlN arrays and metallic Li is efficiently constructed on the Li surface via facile mechanical calendaring. The 3D interconnected polyimide scaffolds with the extensive Li3N/Li9Al4 dual‐decoration promote charge redistribution while enhancing electrochemical kinetics. The significantly reduced nucleation/plateau overpotentials, the overwhelming bottom‐up lithium growth pattern derived from the tidal MIEC interlayer, combined with the inorganics‐dominating solid electrolyte interphase synergistically regulates the uniform Li nucleation/growth. As demonstrated, a prolonged lifespan of the symmetric cell over 7500 h with an ultralow polarization of 12 mV is achieved at 5 mA cm−2@5 mAh cm−2, further improving the rate capability and cycling performance of LiFePO4‐based practical full cells with a capacity retention of 85.4% after 220 cycles. The proposed approach is also applicable to match the roll‐to‐roll production process, presenting an efficient strategy to realize the high‐performance composite anode of industry‐adaptable potential.
A Stretchable Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Fabric with Dual‐Mode Passive Personal Thermal Management
Authors: Dong Jingwen , Feng Yuezhan , Lin Kang , Zhou Bing , Su Fengmei , Liu Chuntai
Published: December 2023

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding fabrics are crucial in addressing the increasingly serious electromagnetic pollution. To meet wearable requirements, stretchability and thermal comfortability are often desired, but which still are challenging. Herein, a stretchable EMI shielding fabric is fabricated via electrospinning coupled with biaxial pre‐stretching spraying, in which a block stacking wrinkled silver nanowire (AgNW)/Ti3C2Tx MXene network is coated on one side of electrospun thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)/polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) fabric. As expected, the wrinkled structure protects conductive network from fracture during stretching process, so as to realize the strain‐invariant electrical conductivity. Thus, the fabric exhibits a stretchable EMI shielding performance of over 40 dB when subjected to 10–50% uniaxial strains or 21–125% biaxial strains. More importantly, the white TPU/PDMS side and the black AgNW/MXene side enable the fabric passive radiative cooling and heating, respectively. The cooling side exhibits high mid‐infrared emissivity (97.5%) and solar reflectance (90%), thus reducing the skin temperature by ≈4.9 °C. The heating side with high solar absorptivity (86.6%) and photothermal effect increased the skin temperature by ≈5 °C. Therefore, the fabirc with stretchable EMI shielding and Janus‐type dual‐mode personal passive thermal management is promising in future wearable products.
Potassium Selenocyanate (KSeCN) Additive Enabled Stable Cathode Electrolyte Interphase and Iron Dissolution Inhibition toward Long‐Cycling Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Luo Kang , Wang Zixing , Mo Ying , Ke Jinlong , Zhou Wang , Wang Kexuan , Chen Shi , Gao Peng , Hu Aiping , Liu Jilei
Published: December 2023

Potassium‐ion batteries (KIBs) are promising energy storage devices owing to the close redox potential of potassium (K) to lithium and rich abundance of K resource, thus promoting the exploration of efficient cathode materials for K‐ions storage. Fe‐based Prussian blue analogues (KFeHCF) are promising cathode materials for KIBs due to their combined advantages in low cost and high energy density. However, the rapid capacity decay induced by unstable cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) and dissolution of transition metal ions leads to limited lifespans (e.g., hundreds of cycles) of K∥KFeHCF batteries. Incorporating additives into electrolytes is an economical and effective way to construct robust CEI for high‐performance KIBs. Herein, a multifunctional electrolyte additive, potassium selenocyanate (KSeCN), is introduced to effectively construct stable, homogeneous and conductive CEI films, which leads to the inhibition of Fe dissolution and stabilization of KFeHCF structure during cycling. With 0.5 wt% of KSeCN in conventional carbonated electrolyte, the K∥KFeHCF battery exhibits promoted cycling performance with a capacity retention rate of 87% after 500 cycles at 4.5 V cutoff voltage. This finding provides a new paradigm for developing and designing potassium‐ion battery electrolytes.
Artificial Breakthrough of Cell Membrane Barrier for Transmembrane Substance Exchange: A Review of Recent Progress
Authors: Wang Liying , Zhu Xinyu , Xu Chengyan , Jin Dongdong , Ma Xing
Published: December 2023

Cell membrane composed of lipid bilayer is a selectively permeable membrane that only allows specific molecules to pass through. While such selectivity is essential for the survival and function of cells, there exist instances when it is necessary to overcome the cell membrane barrier. Study on the artificial cell membrane barrier breakthrough strategies is of great significance for the development of drug delivery systems and the understanding of cellular behaviors. Herein, the advancements in the development of strategies for opening cell membrane barriers over the past decade are summarized. The main transmembrane mechanisms are elucidated and then divided into three categories, i.e., cell perforation via microinjection/external physical fields, cell endocytosis‐assisted construction of artificial transmembrane channels, and untethered micro/nanomachines. Next, the potential applications after opening the cell membrane are discussed, which mainly focus on the transmembrane cargo delivery into the cell and endogenous substance extraction out from the cell. Finally, this review outlines the current challenges that impede the realization of practical applications and presents an outlook of future opportunities to promote further development. Through overcoming the challenges, it is anticipated that artificial cell membrane breakthrough strategies will provide a revolutionized tool in the near future to advance the field of biomedicine and biotechnology.
Recent Advances in Layered Double Hydroxides Membranes: Insights into Multiple Mass Transport
Authors: Hu Jing , Zhang Yuge , Dong Mingdong
Published: December 2023

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) consist of metal cations with positive charges and anions located between their layers, resulting in a structured gallery height and a wide array of surface functionalities. In recent years, LDHs have garnered substantial attention due to their expanded application range through the development of LDHs membranes, bringing exciting possibilities across various fields. A deep understanding of mass transport mechanisms is essential for designing membrane materials effectively and enhancing separation processes. In this review, In this review, the strategies employed for creating continuous and well‐intergrown LDHs membranes are first elaborated. Subsequently, the study delves into a detailed discussion of the selective transport processes involving gas molecules, liquid molecules, and ions through LDHs membranes. Based on the interactions between permeated molecules and LDHs membranes, the mass transport mechanisms can be concluded in molecular sieving mechanism, solution‐diffusion mechanism and facilitated transport mechanism. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives are outlined.
Soft Bioelectronics for Neuroengineering: New Horizons in the Treatment of Brain Tumor and Epilepsy
Authors: Yoo Seungwon , Kim Minjeong , Choi Changsoon , Kim Dae‐Hyeong , Cha Gi Doo
Published: December 2023

Soft bioelectronic technologies for neuroengineering have shown remarkable progress, which include novel soft material technologies and device design strategies. Such technological advances that are initiated from fundamental brain science are applied to clinical neuroscience and provided meaningful promises for significant improvement in the diagnosis efficiency and therapeutic efficacy of various brain diseases recently. System‐level integration strategies in consideration of specific disease circumstances can enhance treatment effects further. Here, recent advances in soft implantable bioelectronics for neuroengineering, focusing on materials and device designs optimized for the treatment of intracranial disease environments, are reviewed. Various types of soft bioelectronics for neuroengineering are categorized and exemplified first, and then details for the sensing and stimulating device components are explained. Next, application examples of soft implantable bioelectronics to clinical neuroscience, particularly focusing on the treatment of brain tumor and epilepsy are reviewed. Finally, an ideal system of soft intracranial bioelectronics such as closed‐loop‐type fully‐integrated systems is presented, and the remaining challenges for their clinical translation are discussed.
Covalent Coupling Assisted Hydrophilic Perovskite Spheres for Ratiometric Fluorescent Visual Multichannel Immunoassay
Authors: Han Yaqin , An Jia , Yuan Mengdi , Fang Junan , Zhang Jiajing , Liang Lanju , Liu Yufei
Published: December 2023

Quantitative fluorescence immunoassay is essential for the construction of biosensing mechanisms and the quantification of trace markers. But the interference problems caused by low fluorescence efficiency and broad fluorescence spectrum of fluorescent probes have hindered the continued development of ratiometric fluorescence sensing in biosensing. Perovskite materials, with ultra‐high color purity (FWHM < 30 nm) and photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) (close to 100%), are expected to be next‐generation fluorescent probes. However, poor water stability and biocompatibility are still non‐negligible in biosensor applications. In this work, hyperstatic perovskite fluorescent microspheres prepared by swelling‐shrinking method can be used as ratiometric fluorescence signals and biological immunoassay platforms. Meanwhile, inspired by p‐aminophenol (AP) controlled synthesis and the catalytic reaction of 4‐aminophenol phosphate (APP) triggered by alkaline phosphatase (ALP), a strategy to prepare fluorescent nanoparticles as fluorescence signals for ALP detection is proposed. Most importantly, it is proposed for the first time to combine this enzymatic fluorescence with perovskite materials using covalent linkage to create a novel cascade immunoassay and use it for quantitative and visualization determination of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) for application verification. These results indicate the biosensing potential of perovskite materials and provide a pathway for high sensitivity enzyme detection and enzyme triggered immune detection.
Ultra‐Sleek High Entropy Alloy Tights: Realizing Superior Cyclability for Anode‐Free Battery
Authors: Wang Jun , Wang Yi , Lu Xiaomeng , Qian Ji , Yang Chao , Manke Ingo , Song Haojie , Liao Jiaxuan , Wang Sizhe , Chen Renjie
Published: December 2023

The development of Li‐free anodes to inhibit Li dendrite formation and provide high energy density Li batteries is highly applauded. However, the lithiophobic interphase and heterogeneous Li deposition hindered the practical application. In this work, a 20 nm ultra‐sleek high entropy alloy (HEA, NiCdCuInZn) tights loaded with HEA nanoparticles are developed by a thermodynamically driven phase transition method on the carbon fiber (HEA/C). Multiple Li+ transport paths and abundant active sites are enabled by the cocktail effect of different constituent elements in HEA. These active sites with gradient absorption energies (−3.18 to −2.03 eV) facilitate selective binding, providing a low barrier for homogeneous Li nucleation. Simultaneously, multiple transport paths promote Li diffusion behavior with uniform Li deposition. Thus, the HEA/C achieves high reversibility of Li plating/stripping processes over 2000 cycles with a coulombic efficiency of 99.6% at 5 mA cm−2/1 mAh cm−2 in asymmetric cells, as well as over 7200 h at 60 mA cm−2/60 mAh cm−2 in symmetric cells. Moreover, the anode‐free full cell with the HEA/C host has an average coulombic efficiency of 99.5% at 1 C after 160 cycles. This advanced HEA structure design shows a favorable potential application for anode‐free Li metal batteries.
A CTL‐Inspired Killing System Using Ultralow‐Dose Chemical‐Drugs to Induce a Pyroptosis‐Mediated Antitumor Immune Function
Authors: Yin Hao , Xie Congying , Zuo Zhigui , Xie Danli , Wang Qinyang
Published: December 2023

A Cytotoxic T lymphocyte‐inspired system capable of using ultralow‐dose chemical drugs to manipulate cell death is needed to investigate the antitumor immunotherapy. Recent studies reveal pyroptosis promotes antitumor immune function. However, high‐dose chemotherapy leads to cytokine release syndrome by pyroptosis. Therefore, pyroptosis‐inducing ultralow‐dose chemotherapy is potential in preclinical and clinical research, but its efficacy, safety, and the antitumor immune responses are not clear. Here, a near‐infrared light controllable killing system (BIK system) is established by which ultralow‐dose doxorubicin can be spatiotemporally transported to tumor cells and mediate efficient pyroptosis. This BIK system reduces total drug consumption to less than one‐thirtieth the common dose in vitro. Moreover, this BIK system exhibited good tumor targeting and tumor penetration. This system is applied for pyroptosis‐induced antitumor therapies, which shows less than ≈25 µg kg−1 doxorubicin is sufficient for tumor regression with negligible injuries to major organs. The antitumor immune function are proven to correlate with the impressive efficacy of pyroptosis‐inducing ultralow‐dose chemotherapy. This study provides new insights into the design of nanoassisted systems for activating the antitumor immunity by microstimulation; the application of the BIK system suggests that ultralow‐dose chemotherapy is sufficient for inducing a robust pyroptosis‐mediated antitumor immunity.
On‐Command Disassembly of Microrobotic Superstructures for Transport and Delivery of Magnetic Micromachines
Authors: Landers Fabian C. , Gantenbein Valentin , Hertle Lukas , Veciana Andrea , Llacer‐Wintle Joaquin , Chen Xiang‐Zhong , Ye Hao , Franco Carlos , Puigmartí‐Luis Josep , Kim Minsoo , Nelson Bradley J. , Pané Salvador
Published: December 2023

Magnetic microrobots have been developed for navigating microscale environments by means of remote magnetic fields. However, limited propulsion speeds at small scales remain an issue in the maneuverability of these devices as magnetic force and torque are proportional to their magnetic volume. Here, a microrobotic superstructure is proposed, which, as analogous to a supramolecular system, consists of two or more microrobotic units that are interconnected and organized through a physical (transient) component (a polymeric frame or a thread). The superstructures consist of microfabricated magnetic helical micromachines interlocked by a magnetic gelatin nanocomposite containing iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). While the microhelices enable the motion of the superstructure, the IONPs serve as heating transducers for dissolving the gelatin chassis via magnetic hyperthermia. In a practical demonstration, the superstructure's motion with a gradient magnetic field in a large channel, the disassembly of the superstructure and release of the helical micromachines by a high‐frequency alternating magnetic field, and the corkscrew locomotion of the released helices through a small channel via a rotating magnetic field, is showcased. This adaptable microrobotic superstructure reacts to different magnetic inputs, which can be used to perform complex delivery procedures within intricate regions of the human body.
Nonepitaxial Wafer‐Scale Single‐Crystal 2D Materials on Insulators
Authors: Li Junzhu , Yuan Yue , Lanza Mario , Abate Iwnetim , Tian Bo , Zhang Xixiang
Published: December 2023

Next‐generation nanodevices require 2D material synthesis on insulating substrates. However, growing high‐quality 2D‐layered materials, such as hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and graphene, on insulators is challenging owing to the lack of suitable metal catalysts, imperfect lattice matching with substrates, and other factors. Therefore, developing a generally applicable approach for realizing high‐quality 2D layers on insulators remains crucial, despite numerous strategies being explored. Herein, a universal strategy is introduced for the nonepitaxial synthesis of wafer‐scale single‐crystal 2D materials on arbitrary insulating substrates. The metal foil in a nonadhered metal–insulator substrate system is almost melted by a brief high‐temperature treatment, thereby pressing the as‐grown 2D layers to well attach onto the insulators. High‐quality, large‐area, single‐crystal, monolayer hBN and graphene films are synthesized on various insulating substrates. This strategy provides new pathways for synthesizing various 2D materials on arbitrary insulators and offers a universal epitaxial platform for future single‐crystal film production.
Engineering Atomically Dispersed Cu–N1S2 Sites via Chemical Vapor Deposition to Boost Enzyme‐Like Activity for Efficient Tumor Therapy
Authors: Xu Bolong , Li Shanshan , Han Along , Zhou You , Sun Mengxue , Yang Haokun , Zheng Lirong , Shi Rui , Liu Huiyu
Published: December 2023

Single‐atom nanozymes (SAzymes), with well‐defined and uniform atomic structures, are an emerging type of natural enzyme mimics. Currently, it is important but challenging to rationally design high‐performance SAzymes and deeply reveal the interaction mechanism between SAzymes and substrate molecules. Herein, this work reports the controllable fabrication of a unique Cu−N1S2‐centred SAzyme (Cu‐N/S‐C) via a chemical vapor deposition‐based sulfur‐engineering strategy. Benefiting from the optimized geometric and electronic structures of single‐atom sites, Cu‐N/S‐C SAzyme shows boosted enzyme‐like activity, especially in catalase‐like activity, with a 13.8‐fold increase in the affinity to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) substrate and a 65.2‐fold increase in the catalytic efficiency when compared to Cu‐N‐C SAzyme with Cu−N3 sites. Further theoretical studies reveal that the increased electron density around single‐atom Cu is achieved through electron redistribution, and the efficient charge transfer between Cu‐N/S‐C and H2O2 is demonstrated to be more beneficial for the adsorption and activation of H2O2. The as‐designed Cu‐N/S‐C SAzyme possesses an excellent antitumor effect through the synergy of catalytic therapy and oxygen‐dependent phototherapy. This study provides a strategy for the rational design of SAzymes, and the proposed electron redistribution and charge transfer mechanism will help to understand the coordination environment effect of single‐atom metal sites on H2O2‐mediated enzyme‐like catalytic processes.
Magnetic Aggregation‐Induced Bone‐Targeting Nanocarrier with Effects of Piezo1 Activation and Osteogenic–Angiogenic Coupling for Osteoporotic Bone Repair
Authors: Guan Haitao , Wang Wei , Jiang Zichao , Zhang Boyu , Ye Zhipeng , Zheng Judun , Chen Wei , Liao Yuhui , Zhang Yingze
Published: December 2023

Osteoporosis, characterized by an imbalance in bone homeostasis, is a global health concern. Bone defects are difficult to heal in patients with osteoporosis. Classical drug treatments for osteoporotic bone defects have unsatisfactory efficacy owing to side effects and imprecise delivery problems. In this study, a magnetic aggregation‐induced bone‐targeting poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid, PLGA)‐based nanocarrier (ZOL‐PLGA@Yoda1/SPIO) is synthesized to realize dual‐targeted delivery and precise Piezo1‐activated therapy for osteoporotic bone defects. Piezo1 is an important mechanotransducer that plays a key role in regulating bone homeostasis. To achieve dual‐targeting properties, ZOL‐PLGA@Yoda1/SPIO is fabricated using zoledronate (ZOL)‐decorated PLGA, superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO), and Piezo1‐activated molecule Yoda1 via the emulsion solvent diffusion method. Bone‐targeting molecular mediation and magnetic aggregation‐induced properties can jointly and effectively achieve precise delivery to localized bone defects. Moreover, Yoda1 loading enables targeted and efficient mimicking of mechanical signals and activation of Piezo1. Experiments in vivo and in vitro demonstrate that ZOL‐PLGA@Yoda1/SPIO can activate Piezo1 in bone defect areas of osteoporotic mice, improve osteogenesis through YAP/β‐catenin signaling axis, promote a well‐coordinated osteogenesis–angiogenesis coupling, and significantly accelerate bone reconstruction within the defects without noticeable side effects. Overall, this novel dual‐targeting nanocarrier provides a potentially effective strategy for the clinical treatment of osteoporotic bone defects.
Ti3C2Tx MXene Polyester Fiber Mesh Composite as Broadband Terahertz Absorber
Authors: Li Yanke , Song Zihang , Lin Shangjun , Zhang Longhui , Jiang Mingzhu , Zeng Lizhen , Hu Fangrong
Published: December 2023

Terahertz (THz) absorbing materials have significant potential applications in THz radar, telecommunications, stealth, detection, and other fields. However, the design and fabrication of THz broadband absorber is still a challenge. In this work, the Ti3C2Tx MXene polyester fiber mesh (MPFM) composite is successfully synthesized using dip‐coating method. By optimizing the fabrication and structures, this study realizes a remarkable absorption rate of over 90% in a wide frequency range of 0.7−2.5 THz. Additionally, Ti3C2Tx loading in the composite is only 0.8 mg, accounting for 6.7 wt.% of the MPFM. The THz absorption capacity of MPFM is minimally affected by the multilayer PFM stacking method and the loading amount of Ti3C2Tx, but rather by the PFM aperture size and stack thickness. The proposed method paves the way for developing THz broadband absorbers using lightweight flexible composite.
A Versatile Photocrosslinkable Silicone Composite for 3D Printing Applications
Authors: Alioglu Mecit Altan , Yilmaz Yasar Ozer , Gerhard Ethan Michael , Pal Vaibhav , Gupta Deepak , Rizvi Syed Hasan Askari , Ozbolat Ibrahim T.
Published: December 2023

Embedded printing has emerged as a valuable tool for fabricating complex structures and microfluidic devices. Currently, an ample of amount of research is going on to develop new materials to advance its capabilities and increase its potential applications. Here, a novel, transparent, printable, photocrosslinkable, and tuneable silicone composite is demonstrated that can be utilized as a support bath or an extrudable ink for embedded printing. Its properties can be tuned to achieve ideal rheological properties, such as optimal self‐recovery and yield stress, for use in 3D printing. When used as a support bath, it facilitated the generation microfluidic devices with circular channels of diameter up to 30 µm. To demonstrate its utility, flow focusing microfluidic devices are fabricated for generation of Janus microrods, which can be easily modified for multitude of applications. When used as an extrudable ink, 3D printing of complex‐shaped constructs are achieved with integrated electronics, which greatly extends its potential applications toward soft robotics. Further, its biocompatibility is tested with multiple cell types to validate its applicability for tissue engineering. Altogether, this material offers a myriad of potential applications (i.e., soft robotics, microfluidics, bioprinting) by providing a facile approach to develop complicated 3D structures and interconnected channels.
Unveiling the Crucial Impact of Defects in the Hole Transport Layer on the Efficiency of Phosphorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Yang Kwangmo , Nam Sungho , Kim Joonghyuk , Kim Ji Whan , Lee Jaesang
Published: December 2023

The ongoing challenge in advancing organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) is to mitigate performance degradation during operation, caused by the dissociation of molecular components and the ensuing defect formation. While defects can emerge throughout OLEDs with diverse detrimental effects, prior research has predominantly focused on those within the emission layer (EML), leaving other device areas unexplored. In this work, a previously overlooked, yet profound impact of defects in the hole transport layer (HTL) on charge and exciton dynamics in a phosphorescent OLED (PHOLED) is investigated. HTL defects confine and impede the injection of free holes into the EML, requiring an increased supply of electrons to maintain constant current in the device. Consequently, excitons become concentrated at the HTL/EML interface, leading to enhanced bimolecular annihilations and an 8% reduction in device efficiency. Furthermore, when HTL defects are within 8 nm from the interface, they can directly quench excitons, resulting in a substantial decrease in device efficiency by up to 76%. This defect‐induced exciton quenching occurs through both Dexter and Förster energy transfer, each with distinct distance dependence. The findings emphasize the necessity of preventing defect formation, particularly in proximity to the HTL/EML interface, to minimize efficiency degradation for PHOLEDs.
Color Tunable Phosphorescent Neutral Manganese(II) Complexes Through Steric Hindrance Driven Bond Angle Distortion
Authors: She Pengfei , Zheng Zhong , Qin Yanyan , Li Feiyang , Zheng Xiaokang , Zhang Dongdong , Xie Zhiyuan , Duan Lian , Wong Wai‐Yeung
Published: December 2023

Phosphorescent manganese(II) complexes with high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) and low cost exhibit great potential in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), information security, and X‐ray imaging. However, it is still a challenge to tune their emission colors. Herein, an effective strategy for engineering the phosphorescence colors of tetrahedral Mn(II) complexes through steric hindrance‐driven bond angle distortion is proposed. Modulating the steric hindrance between phosphine and benzofuran and varying the O─Mn─O bond angles allows these Mn(II) complexes to emit from 498 to 548 nm. Interestingly, these achiral single crystals of Mn(II) complexes exhibit significant circularly polarized luminescence signals due to symmetry breaking. Furthermore, high‐performance green OLEDs are achieved by using these Mn(II) complexes as dopants, providing a record‐high external quantum efficiency of 15.7%. These super‐duper results greatly inspire the development of multi‐color Mn(II) complexes and low‐cost Mn‐based devices.
Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Derived Endothelial Cells Repair Choroidal Ischemia
Authors: Li Mengda , Wang Peiliang , Huo Si Tong , Qiu Hui , Li Chendi , Lin Siyong , Guo Libin , Ji Yicong , Zhu Yonglin , Liu Jinyang , Guo Jianying , Na Jie , Hu Yuntao
Published: December 2023

Choroidal atrophy is a common fundus pathological change closely related to the development of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), retinitis pigmentosa, and pathological myopia. Studies suggest that choroidal endothelial cells (CECs) that form the choriocapillaris vessels are the first cells lost in choroidal atrophy. It is found that endothelial cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC‐ECs) through the MESP1+ mesodermal progenitor stage express CECs‐specific markers and can integrate into choriocapillaris. Single‐cell RNA‐seq (scRNA‐seq) studies show that hPSC‐ECs upregulate angiogenesis and immune‐modulatory and neural protective genes after interacting with ex vivo ischemic choroid. In a rat model of choroidal ischemia (CI), transplantation of hPSC‐ECs into the suprachoroidal space increases choroid thickness and vasculature density. Close‐up examination shows that engrafted hPSC‐ECs integrate with all layers of rat choroidal vessels and last 90 days. Remarkably, EC transplantation improves the visual function of CI rats. The work demonstrates that hPSC‐ECs can be used to repair choroidal ischemia in the animal model, which may lead to a new therapy to alleviate choroidal atrophy implicated in dry AMD, pathological myopia, and other ocular diseases.
Natural Acceptor of Coumarin‐Isomerized Red‐Emissive BioAIEgen for Monitoring Cu2+ Concentration in Live Cells via FLIM
Authors: Cai Xu‐Min , Li Shouji , Wang Wen‐Jin , Lin Yuting , Zhong Weiren , Yang Yalan , Kühn Fritz E. , Li Ying , Zhao Zheng , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: December 2023

Artificial aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) have flourished in bio‐applications with the development of synthetic chemistry, which however are plagued by issues like singularity in structures and non‐renewability. The unique structures and renewability of biomass moieties can compensate for these drawbacks, but their properties are hard to design and regulate due to their confined structures. Therefore, it appears to be a reasonable approach to derive AIEgens from abundant biomass (BioAIEgens), integrating the bilateral advantages of both synthetic and natural AIEgens. In this work, the blue‐violet emissive coumarin with its lactone structure serving as a rare natural acceptor, is utilized to construct donor‐π‐acceptor typed BioAIE isomers incorporating the propeller‐like and electron‐donating triphenylamine (TPA) unit. The results show that Cm‐p‐TPA undergoes charge transfer with its keto form, emitting red light at 600 nm, which can be applied to monitor Cu2+ concentration during mitophagy using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy because of the excellent biocompatibility, photostability, and specific recognition to Cu2+. This work not only demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing positional isomerization to modulate excited‐state evolutions and resultant optical properties, but also provides evidence for the rationality of constructing biologically‐active BioAIEgens via a biomass‐derivatization concept.
Device Performance of Emerging Photovoltaic Materials (Version 4)
Authors: Almora Osbel , Cabrera Carlos I. , Erten‐Ela Sule , Forberich Karen , Fukuda Kenjiro , Guo Fei , Hauch Jens , Ho‐Baillie Anita W. Y. , Jacobsson T. Jesper , Janssen Rene A. J. , Kirchartz Thomas , Loi Maria A. , Mathew Xavier , Mitzi David B. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad K. , Paetzold Ulrich W. , Rand Barry P. , Rau Uwe , Someya Takao , Unger Eva , Vaillant‐Roca Lídice , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: December 2023

Following the 3rd release of the “Emerging PV reports”, the best achievements in the performance of emerging photovoltaic (e‐PV) devices in diverse e‐PV research subjects are summarized, as reported in peer‐reviewed articles in academic journals since August 2022. Updated graphs, tables, and analyses are provided with several performance parameters, such as power conversion efficiency, open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current density, fill factor, light utilization efficiency, and stability test energy yield. These parameters are presented as a function of the photovoltaic bandgap energy and the average visible transmittance for each technology and application, and are put into perspective using, for example, the detailed balance efficiency limit. The 4th installment of the “Emerging PV reports” discusses the “PV emergence” classification with respect to the “PV technology generations” and “PV research waves” and highlights the latest device performance progress in multijunction and flexible photovoltaics. Additionally, Dale‐Scarpulla's plots of efficiency‐effort in terms of cumulative academic publication count are also introduced.
Enhancing Oxygen Evolution Reaction Performance: Electrochemical Activation of the Biphasic CoNi/Zn(Fe,Al,Cr)2O4 via Controlled Aluminum Leaching Facilitated Surface Reconstruction
Authors: Chen Yuhao , Xu Jiang , Jiang Minming , Wang Luqi , Ma Rui , Chen Yujie , Xie Zong‐Han , Munroe Paul , Hu Feng , Li Linlin , Peng Shengjie
Published: December 2023

Given that the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) faces challenges due to its sluggish kinetics, development of efficient and robust OER catalytic electrodes is critical for reducing the cost of hydrogen production through electrochemical water splitting. In this study, a biphasic CoNi/Zn(Fe,Al,Cr)2O4 coating, characterized by a densely organized stalagmite‐like microarray structure, is deposited on a commercial pure titanium plate, creating an exceptionally effective OER catalytic electrode. The formation of numerous metal/spinel oxide heterogeneous interfaces is demonstrated to enhance its electron transfer ability and conductivity. At high potentials, aluminum leaching and lattice oxygen consumption can facilitate deep surface reconstruction of highly active Fe‐doped CoNiOOH phase inducing electrochemical activation, further optimizing thermodynamic barrier of the fundamental reaction step. Ultimately, this electrode showcases exceptional OER catalytic performance (low overpotential of 248 and 335 mV to deliver the current density of 10 and 100 mA cm−2) compared to commercial IrO2 catalyst (overpotential of ≈310 mV at 10 mA cm−2). Moreover, it demonstrates high current stability sustaining a current density of 500 mA cm−2 for 100 h. This work deepens the comprehension of the surface reconstruction process in OER and, more broadly, introduces a new avenue for designing and enhancing the performance of catalytic materials.
Adaptation to climate change: The irrigation technology mix of Italian farmers
Authors: Fabri Charlotte , Tsagris Michail , Moretti Michele , Van Passel Steven
Published: December 2023

Farmers should increasingly adopt more water‐efficient irrigation technologies—such as drip irrigation—as a result of climate warming and aggravating water scarcity. We analyze how Italian farmers adapt to climate change by changing their irrigation technology mix. We apply a two‐stage econometric model to data from 5876 Italian farms. We find that farmers' initial reaction to increasing temperatures is reducing their surface‐irrigated fractions. When temperatures increase further, farmers switch toward more sprinkler irrigation. Our results show that farmers are not autonomously moving to drip irrigation in response to climate change, suggesting that government incentives are needed to encourage this transition.
Hydrodynamics of bubble flow through a porous medium with applications to packed bed reactors
Authors: Nagrani Pranay P. , Marconnet Amy M. , Christov Ivan C.
Published: December 2023

Gas‐liquid flows through packed bed reactors (PBRs) are challenging to predict due to the tortuous flow paths that fluid interfaces must traverse. Experiments at the International Space Station showed that bubble and pulse flows are predominately observed under microgravity conditions, while the trickle and spray flows observed under terrestrial conditions are not present in microgravity. To understand the physics behind the former experiments, we simulate bubble flow through a PBR for different packing‐particle‐diameter‐based Weber numbers and under different gravity conditions. We demonstrate different pore‐scale mechanisms, such as capillary entrapment, buoyancy entrapment, and inertia‐induced bubble displacement. Then, we perform a quantitative analysis by introducing new dynamic scales, dependent upon the evolving gas‐liquid interfacial area, to understand the dynamic trade‐offs between the inertia, capillary, and buoyancy forces on a bubble passing through a PBR. This analysis leads us to define new dimensionless Weber‐like numbers that delineate bubble entrapment from bubble displacement.
Impact of the iWHELD digital person‐centered care program on quality of life, agitation and psychotropic medications in people with dementia living in nursing homes during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: McDermid Joanne , Henley William , Corbett Anne , Williams Gareth , Fossey Jane , Clare Linda , Fox Chris , Aarsland Dag , Khan Zunera , Soto Maria , Woodward‐Carlton Barbara , Cook Esme Moniz , Cummings Jeffrey , Sweetnam Adrienne , Chan Xavier , Lawrence Megan , Ballard Clive ,   the iWHELD study group
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTION

iWHELD is a digital person‐centered care program for people with dementia in nursing homes adapted for remote delivery during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

METHODS

A 16‐week two‐arm cluster‐randomized controlled trial in 149 UK nursing homes compared iWHELD with treatment as usual (TAU). Primary outcome was the overall quality of life with secondary outcomes of agitation and psychotropic use.

RESULTS

iWHELD conferred benefit to quality of life on the primary (F = 4.3, p = 0.04) and secondary measures of quality of life (F = 6.45, p = 0.01) and reduced psychotropic medication use (χ2 = 4.08, p = 0.04) with no worsening of agitation. Benefit was seen in participants who contracted COVID‐19, those with agitation at baseline, and those taking psychotropic medications.

DISCUSSION

iWHELD confers benefits to quality of life and key measures of well‐being, can be delivered during the challenging conditions of a pandemic, and should be considered for use alongside any emerging pharmacological treatment for neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Highlights

iWHELD is the only remote, digital delivery nursing home training programme for dementia care

iWHELD improved quality of life in people with dementia and reduced antipsychotic use without worsening of agitation

Residents who contracted Covid‐19 during the study also experienced benefits from iWHELD

iWHELD offers a valuable, pandemic‐safe tool for improving dementia care
Comment on “Evolution Equations of Nonlinearly Permissible, Coherent Hole Structures Propagating Persistently in Collisionless Plasmas”
Authors: Hutchinson I H
Published: December 2023

Recent critical remarks, published in this journal, about the present author's analysis of electron and ion holes and their stability are addressed and shown to be misunderstandings and misrepresentations.
Probing Degradation in Lithium Ion Batteries with On‐Chip Electrochemistry Mass Spectrometry**
Authors: Thornton Daisy B. , Davies Bethan J. V. , Scott Soren B. , Aguadero Ainara , Ryan Mary P. , Stephens Ifan E. L.
Published: December 2023

The rapid uptake of lithium ion batteries (LIBs) for large scale electric vehicle and energy storage applications requires a deeper understanding of the degradation mechanisms. Capacity fade is due to the complex interplay between phase transitions, electrolyte decomposition and transition metal dissolution; many of these poorly understood parasitic reactions evolve gases as a side product. Here we present an on‐chip electrochemistry mass spectrometry method that enables ultra‐sensitive, fully quantified and time resolved detection of volatile species evolving from an operating LIB. The technique's electrochemical performance and mass transport is described by a finite element model and then experimentally used to demonstrate the variety of new insights into LIB performance. We show the versatility of the technique, including (a) observation of oxygen evolving from a LiNiMnCoO2 cathode and (b) the solid electrolyte interphase formation reaction on graphite in a variety of electrolytes, enabling the deconvolution of lithium inventory loss (c) the first direct evidence, by virtue of the improved time resolution of our technique, that carbon dioxide reduction to ethylene takes place in a lithium ion battery. The emerging insight will guide and validate battery lifetime models, as well as inform the design of longer lasting batteries.
Lightweight, robust, porous heterocyclic para‐aramid aerogel hollow fibers for multifunctional applications
Authors: Wu Wenwen , Song Qingquan , Li Na , Wang Yan , Yu Junrong , Hu Zuming
Published: December 2023

In nature, many fibers with warmth‐retention properties, such as the hair of polar bears and rabbits, both have a hollow cross‐section structure. The static air in fiber cavities can effectively inhibit heat conduction and serve as an effective thermal insulator. In this work, the high‐performance heterocyclic para‐aramid polymer was selected as the spinning solution, and aerogel hollow fiber was prepared by coaxial wet spinning and freeze‐drying techniques. The effects of spinning solution concentration and lyophilized solvent on the micromorphology, mechanical properties, and specific surface area of heterocyclic para‐aramid aerogel hollow fiber (HPAAHF) were systematically studied. The produced HPAAHF possessed excellent mechanical properties (tensible strength ~3.85 MPa), high specific surface area (~ 260.90 m2 g−1), and lightweight advantages. The thermal conductivity of HPAAHF was only 0.0278 W m−1 K−1, indicating its excellent thermal insulation properties. The aerogel fabric exhibited outstanding flame retardancy properties, with a total heat release of only 0.7 MJ m−2 in the cone calorimetric experiment, making it a self‐extinguishing fabric. In addition, phase change material was injected into the hollow structure to obtain aerogel‐phase change material composite fibers, which exhibited great energy storage prospects. As a result, the high‐performance heterocyclic para‐aramid polymer‐based aerogel hollow fiber was successfully prepared and had multifunctional applications in thermal insulation, flame retardancy, and heat energy storage fields.
Preparation and characteristics of composite films with functionalized graphene/polyimide
Authors: Zhang Jiayu , Liang Bing , Long Jiapeng
Published: December 2023

Polyimide (PI) has the inherent defect of poor intrinsic thermal conductivity and cannot meet the increasing demand for rapid heat dissipation in the thermal management introduction. To improve the thermal conductivity of PI, in this study, thick sheet graphene‐ionic liquid (TSG‐IL) functionalized graphene has been prepared by a one‐step ultrasonic‐chemical method. Under the action of mechanical force, IL is successfully modified on the surface of TSG, and TSG is peeled to some extent. TSG‐IL/PI has been prepared the typical method of solution casting followed by thermal imidization. The structure, morphology, thermal conductivity, and mechanical properties of the composites are evaluated by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Hot Disk thermal conductivity tests. When the amount of TSG‐IL is 0.3 wt%, the thermal conductivity of TSG‐IL/PI (0.18 W·m−1·k−1) than pure PI and TSG (ultrasonication)/PI increased by 50.0% and 28.6%, respectively. Moreover, it can maintain good mechanical properties, and its tensile strength (121.5 MPa) is 6.5% and 3.5% higher than that of pure PI and TSG (ultrasonication)/PI, respectively. The potential for application in the preparation of composites with high‐thermal conductivity is promising.
Effects of preparation method on thermoelectric properties of poly(aniline‐co‐3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/SWCNT composites
Authors: Luo Qunyi , Li Yiyang , Guo Cun‐Yue
Published: December 2023

Composites of conducting polymer and single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are attracting great attentions in harvesting low‐grade waste heat. Prefabricated SWCNTs film used as the working electrode was placed at the liquid interface between the inorganic phase (dilute sulfuric acid solution) and the organic phase consisting of dichloromethane (DCM), aniline (ANI), and 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT), together with a platinum wire (the counter electrode) and a silver chloride (AgCl/Ag) electrode (the reference electrode), to perform electrochemical polymerization of ANI and EDOT at the liquid interface. Thermoelectric (TE) composites of poly(ANI‐co‐EDOT) and SWCNTs were produced. Compared with composites from ultrasonic mixing and coating methods, the 10 wt% SWCNTs‐composites in situ formed in electrochemical polymerization have the highest power factor (PF) of 41.56 ± 3.58 μW m−1 K−2, higher than the PF values of the composites formed by other two methods. The work indicates that the TE properties of ANI‐EDOT copolymer/SWCNT (poly[ANI‐co‐EDOT]/SWCNT) composites prepared by electrochemical polymerization were better than those of the composites obtained by physical mixing the electrochemically synthesized poly(ANI‐co‐EDOT) with SWCNTs. Moreover, SWCNTs treated with sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) could further improve the TE properties of the composites.
Neuroanatomy and pneumaticity of the extinct Malagasy “horned” crocodile Voay robustus and its implications for crocodylid phylogeny and palaeoecology
Authors: Perrichon Gwendal , Pochat‐Cottilloux Yohan , Conedera Davide , Richardin Pascale , Fernandez Vincent , Hautier Lionel , Martin Jeremy E.
Published: December 2023

Voay robustus, the extinct Malagasy “horned” crocodile, was originally considered to be the only crocodylian representative in Madagascar during most part of the Holocene. However, Malagasy crocodylian remains have had confused taxonomic attributions and recent studies have underlined that Crocodylus and Voay populations coexisted on the island for at least 7500 years. Here, we describe the inner braincase anatomy of Voay robustus using x‐ray computed tomography on four specimens, to provide new anatomical information that distinguishes Voay from Crocodylus, especially features of the brain endocast and the paratympanic sinuses. Geometric morphometric analyses are performed on 3D models of the internal organs to compare statistically Voay with a subset of extant Crocodylidae. Following these comparisons, we build an endocranial morphological matrix to discuss the proposed phylogenetic affinities of Voay with Osteolaeminae from an endocranial point of view. Additionally, we discuss the use of internal characters in systematic studies and find that they can have a major impact on morphological analyses. Finally, new radiocarbon data on Voay and subfossil Crocodylus specimens are recovered between 2010 and 2750 cal BP, which confirm the cohabitation of the two species in the same area for a long period of time. We thus assess several extinction scenarios, and propose a slightly different ecology of Voay compared to Crocodylus, which could have allowed habitat partitioning on the island. Our approach complements information obtained from previous molecular and morphological phylogenies, as well as previous radiocarbon dating, together revealing past diversity and faunal turnovers in Madagascar.