Distinct 2D Research Articles

Multiplexed Random Access Approach to DNA Microspheres for High‐Capacity Data Storage

AbstractWith the rapid growth of modern information data, DNA has emerged as a novel medium for data storage due to its durability, replicability, sustainability, and high density. This study focuses on the compatibility, high capacity, and random access of DNA data storage systems. A calcium phosphate (CaP) mineralized fluorescent SiO2 DNA (FSD@CaP) microspheres is developed by encapsulating fluorescence‐labeled encoding DNA files onto the surface of the SiO2 microspheres that are intrinsically sized and fluorescent as addressed two‐dimensional (2D) barcodes. The various sizes of SiO2 and various fluorescence‐labeled encoding DNA files forming 2D barcodes of FSD@CaP. The 2D barcodes enhance the system's compatibility while allowing multiplexed random access to DNA files. The high‐capacity DNA storage permits effective single access to the DNA file using a minimal number of FSD@CaP microspheres, without impacting the matrix of the system. Ultimately, random access to arbitrary DNA files within a complex pool of distinct 2D barcode‐tagged FSD@CaP microspheres is demonstrated by utilizing a flow cytometer for multiplexed sorting. Consequently, the strategy of this storage system provides a scalable concept for compatibility and multiplexed random access to DNA data sets.

Solid-state surfactant templating for controlled synthesis of amorphous 2D oxide/oxyhydroxide nanosheets

As a member of 2D family, amorphous 2D nanosheets have received increasing attention due to their unique properties that are distinct from crystalline 2D nanosheets. However, compared with the vast library of crystalline 2D nanosheets, amorphous 2D nanosheets are still infancy due to the lack of an efficient synthetic approach. Here, we present a strategy that yields a library of 10 distinct amorphous 2D metal oxides/oxyhydroxides using solid-state surfactant crystals. A key feature of this process is a stepwise reaction using solid surfactant; the solid-state surfactant crystals have metal ions arranged in the interlayer space, and hydrolysis of the metal ions leads to the formation of isolated clusters in the surfactant crystals via limited condensation reactions. Immersing the surfactant crystals in formamide promotes nanosheet formation through the self-assembly of clusters by templating the morphologies of the crystals generated from surfactants crystals. Our approach opens a flatland in amorphous 2D world.

Tailored synthesis of a unique two-dimensional pretzel-like core-shell SnO2/C composite for improved lithium storage performance

In this research, a unique two-dimensional (2D) core-shell SnO2/C composite with a distinctive pretzel-like morphology was successfully synthesized using the tin-citrate complex as the tin source, and glucose as the carbon source through a hydrothermal synthesis, and followed by a high-temperature carbonization process. When assessed as an anode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), the composite demonstrated a significant specific capacity of 529 mAh g−1 at a current density of 200 mA g−1 after 100 cycles. Furthermore, it maintained ca. 200 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 1.6 A g−1, indicating excellent cycling stability and rate capability. The remarkable electrochemical performance can be ascribed to the well-dispersed nanoscale SnO2 particles within the amorphous carbon matrix, the distinctive core-shell structure and 2D pretzel-like conductive network. The prepared SnO2/C composite can be a promising alternative anode for future LIBs, offering higher energy density, prolonged cycle life, and faster charging capability compared to traditional graphite-based anodes.

Hydrogen storage in Ti doped 4-6-8 biphenylene (Ti.C468): Insights from density functional theory

Hydrogen storage exploration in carbon-based materials is pivotal for advancing energy technologies. This study employs first-principles Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, utilizing the PBE functional with the VASP code, to investigate the 4-6-8 biphenylene (C468) and its derivatives, a distinctive 2D carbon structure. Both pristine C468 and its titanium-decorated variants (1TiC468 and 2TiC468) are analyzed. 1TiC468 and 2TiC468 exhibit maximum hydrogen molecule accommodation of up to 12 and 24, achieving gravimetric densities of 6.713 wt% and 11.188 wt%, respectively, with adsorption energies ranging from −0.132 eV/H2 to −0.399 eV/H2. These gravimetric values align with or surpass DOE guidelines. Additionally, comparative analysis indicates enhanced hydrogen adsorption due to Ti presence in C468. Molecular dynamics (MD) and phonon dispersion studies confirm the stability of mTiC468 (m = 1 and 2) systems at 300K. These findings underscore the potential of Ti-decorated C468 as hydrogen storage candidates, expanding the applications of carbon-based materials in energy storage.

BaCu, a Two-Dimensional Electride with Cu Anions.

The electron-rich characteristic and low work function endow electrides with excellent performance in (opto)electronics and catalytic applications; these two features are closely related to the structural topology, constituents, and valence electron concentration of electrides. However, the synthesized electrides, especially two-dimensional (2D) electrides, are limited to specific structural prototypes and anionic p-block elements. Here we synthesize and identify a distinct 2D electride of BaCu with delocalized anionic electrons confined to the interlayer spaces of the BaCu framework. The bonding between Cu and Ba atoms exhibits ionic characteristics, and the adjacent Cu anions form a planar honeycomb structure with metallic Cu-Cu bonding. The negatively charged Cu ions are revealed by the theoretical calculations and experimental X-ray absorption near-edge structure. Physical property measurements reveal that BaCu electride has a high electronic conductivity (ρ = 3.20 μΩ cm) and a low work function (2.5 eV), attributed to the metallic Cu-Cu bonding and delocalized anionic electrons. In contrast to typical ionic 2D electrides with p-block anions, density functional theory calculations find that the orbital hybridization between the delocalized anionic electrons and BaCu framework leads to unique isotropic physical properties, such as mechanical properties, and work function. The freestanding BaCu monolayer with half-metal conductivity exhibits low exfoliation energy (0.84 J/m2) and high mechanical/thermal stability, suggesting the potential to achieve low-dimensional BaCu from the bulk. Our results expand the space for the structure and attributes of 2D electrides, facilitating the discovery and potential application of novel 2D electrides with transition metal anions.

Space-confined growth of two-dimensional manganese oxide nanosheets in plant-cell structures for efficient tetracycline degradation

Manganese oxides (MnxOy) stand out as promising candidates for various redox reaction involved applications due to their diverse valence states. The expansive surface area of two-dimensional (2D) materials offers an abundance of active sites for reactions, thereby gathering significant interest for catalytic applications. Nonetheless, facile synthesis of 2D nano metal oxides remains a challenge. In this study, cabbage leaf cells were employed as bio-scaffolds to fabricate 2D MnxOy nanomaterials, leveraging the confined space within the cells. The resulting 2D MnxOy nanosheets, featured by multiple valence states and composed of Mn2O3 and Mn3O4 nanocrystals, exhibit a planar size of 32 nm and a lamellar thickness of about 3.95 nm. The distinctive 2D structure, coupled with the material’s multivalent manganese, facilitates efficient electron transfer, enhancing its function as a hetero-catalyst. Consequently, 2D MnxOy nanosheets demonstrate remarkable efficiency, achieving an 89 % removal of tetracycline (40 mg·L–1) with the assistance of H2O2. This study paves the way for employing biological templates to meticulously synthesize nanomaterials with precise morphologies, with applications extending across various fields.

A comparative study of nickel and cadmium coordination polymers: Framework topology and proton conductivity

Two new coordination polymers (CPs), [Ni2(dip)2(obb)2]⋅2H2O, and [Cd2(dip)2(obb)2(H2O)]⋅5.5H2O, were successfully synthesized via hydrothermal processes utilizing the organic linkers 4,4′-oxybisbenzoate (obb) and 2,6-di(1H-imidazole-1-yl)pyridine (dip). The unique structures of both CPs were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. Ni-CP presents an intricate three-fold interpenetrated 3D framework, featuring a rare cag topology centered around dinuclear nodes. In contrast, Cd-CP exhibits a distinctive non-interpenetrated 2D framework with an unusual kIa topology. Despite Cd-CP's water coordination and the inclusion of substantial guest water molecules, it unexpectedly exhibited lower proton conductivity than Ni-CP, which is non-porous and contains much less water content.

Bifunctional mesoporous glasses for bone tissue engineering: Biological effects of doping with cerium and polyphenols in 2D and 3D in vitro models

This study evaluates the cytocompatibility of cerium-doped mesoporous bioactive glasses (Ce-MBGs) loaded with polyphenols (Ce-MBGs-Poly) for possible application in bone tissue engineering after tumour resection. We tested MBGs powders and pellets on 2D and 3D in vitro models using human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), osteosarcoma cells (U2OS), and endothelial cells (EA.hy926). Promisingly, at a low concentration in culture medium, Poly-loaded MBGs powders containing 1.2 mol% of cerium inhibited U2OS metabolic activity, preserved hMSCs viability, and had no adverse effects on EA.hy926 migration. Moreover, the study discussed the possible interaction between cerium and Poly, influencing anti-cancer effects. In summary, this research provides insights into the complex interactions between Ce-MBGs, Poly, and various cell types in distinct 2D and 3D in vitro models, highlighting the potential of loaded Ce-MBGs for post-resection bone tissue engineering with a balance between pro-regenerative and anti-tumorigenic activities.

Conducting Polymers–Metal Chalcogenides Hybrid Composite: Current Trends and Future Prospects Toward Supercapacitor Applications

Conducting polymers have grown in popularity as electrode materials in supercapacitors due to their polymeric mechanical structure and outstanding conductivity. Nanostructured conducting polymers, in particular, have been the focus due to unique properties such as higher surface area, shorter diffusion lengths for ion transport, and a high electrochemical nature. Nonetheless, the volumetric expansion of conducting polymer electrodes after long charge–discharge cycles reduces capacitance retention. Metal chalcogenides, on the other hand, are distinguished from other metallic compounds by their distinctive 2D structure, large theoretical capacities, abundant electrochemical active sites, and tunable shape, enabling them as a potential candidature when combined with conducting polymers to produce a composite material taking “material mutualism” to enhance the properties. Hence, the review focuses on recent advancement in the field of creating conducting polymers–metal chalcogenides composite for supercapacitors. It especially covers how nanoarchitecture, composition, and doping affect the electrochemical characteristics of these composites. A brief introduction of several synthesis procedures is also offered, which includes chemical approaches with and without templates or binder additives. Furthermore, noteworthy works on the fabrication of symmetric and asymmetric devices are highlighted.

Self‐Assembled Molecules Fostering Ordered Spatial Heterogeneity for Efficient Ruddlesden‐Popper Perovskite Solar Cells

Abstract2D Ruddlesden‐Popper perovskites (RPP) with formamidinium‐cesium (FAC) alloyed cations possess powerful thermal‐moisture stability. However, their photovoltaic performance is hindered by the elusive spatial heterogeneity at multiscale lengths, highly associated with their coupled charge selective contacts. Herein, it reports on how the rational formation of self‐assembly molecules (SAMs) govern the orderliness of the spatial heterogeneity and crystal growth model in FACs‐RPP films, which is proposed to dictate the charge‐carrier dynamics. Unlike the disordered RPP film driven by the amorphous polymeric contacts, the laterally ordered crystallized SAM contacts facilitate a spatially ordered 2D/3D heterogeneity of FACs‐RPP film in long range, where distinct minor 2D phases are tightly coupled in short range. Such ordered heterogeneity can improve the energy transfer efficiency, facilitating the charge‐carrier dynamics in a well‐aligned 2D/3D landscape is discovered. Finally, the champion solar cells using selective SAM‐based FACs‐RPP films (n = 5) yield an efficiency of 18.85% (certified 18.19%) and excellent damp‐heat/operational stability, ranking in the top league of reported 2D RPP solar cells. More importantly, this SAM‐based principle can be adapted to diverse 2D structures, active areas, and substrate types. This work provides design directions for leveraging bottom‐selective contacts to tune spatial heterogeneity in state‐of‐the‐art 2D RPP optoelectronics.

Encasing Few-Layer MoS2 within 2D Ordered Cubic Graphitic Cages to Smooth Trapping-Conversion of Lithium Polysulfides for Dendrite-Free Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

The industrialization of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries faces challenges due to the shuttling effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and the growth of lithium dendrites. To address these issues, a simple and scalable method is proposed to synthesize 2D membranes comprising a single layer of cubic graphitic cages encased with few-layer, curved MoS2. The distinctive 2D architecture is achieved by confining the epitaxial growth of MoS2 within the open cages of a 2D-ordered mesoporous graphitic framework (MGF), resulting in MoS2@MGF heterostructures with abundant sulfur vacancies. The experimental and theoretical studies establish that these MoS2@MGF membranes can act as a multifunctional interlayer in Li-S batteries to boost their comprehensive performance. The inclusion of the MoS2@MGF interlayer facilitates the trapping and conversion kinetics of LiPSs, preventing their shuttling effect, while simultaneously promoting uniform lithium deposition to inhibit dendrite growth. As a result, Li-S batteries with the MoS2@MGF interlayer exhibit high electrochemical performance even under high sulfur loading and lean electrolyte conditions. This work highlights the potential of designing advanced MoS2-encased heterostructures as interlayers, offering a viable solution to the current limitations plaguing Li-S batteries.

AUV way-point tracking at constant velocity: cross-track error (CTE) and line-of-sight (LOS) guidance

This paper addresses the integrated challenges of path-following and tracking control for an under-actuated Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) in the two-dimensional (2D) plane. Four distinct 2D trajectories: linear, linear with sharp turns, curved, and circular trajectories have been considered in this study. The proposed path-following control algorithm leverages AUV kinematic and dynamic models, incorporating the Cross-Track Error (CTE) method and Line-of-Sight (LOS) technique to determine the desired orientation. Stability analysis has been performed to evaluate the robustness of the controllers against sudden underwater disturbances. Additionally, perturbation has been introduced in simulations to mimic real-world conditions more accurately. The simulations confirm the controllers’ proficiency in accurately tracking these various trajectories from a given starting point.

A facile synthesis of 2D bimetallic solid solution nitrides for robust stability in lithium-ion battery

Nanostructured transition metal nitrides (TMNs) demonstrate immense promise for lithium-ion battery applications owing to their outstanding conductivity and high theoretical capacity. However, challenges such as the expansion of volume, aggregation concerns, and rapid capacity decay still need to be effectively addressed. Herein, a facile synthesis of 2D nitrides, including TiVN, NbVN and TiNbN, is achieved through nitriding their corresponding MXenes. The distinct 2D layered structure enables them fast lithium-ion transport and inhibits volume variation, thereby improving rate performance and stability. Moreover, the incorporation of bimetallic elements in solid solution induces lattice distortion, creating lattice vacancies and increasing lithium storage capacity. Atomic-level interactions within solid solutions, confirming by the shifts of binding energy, contribute to improved structural stability and accelerated charge transfer. The theoretical calculation further proves that the bimetallic solid solution structure elevates the d-band center and increases the Li+ adsorption energy. Consequently, the synthesized TiVN, NbVN and TiNbN demonstrate remarkable lithium storage performance. Especially, NbVN with a porous morphology stands out by achieving a specific capacity of 216.6 mAh/g after 1,400 cycles at 1 A/g, significantly outperforming Nb4N5 and VN. This work may provide valuable insights for the efficient synthesis and electrochemical applications of two-dimensional solid-solution nitrides.

Use of 3D-CAPSNET and RNN models for 4D fMRI-based Alzheimer’s Disease Pre-detection

Predicting Alzheimer's disease (AD) at an early stage can assist more successfully prevent cognitive decline. Numerous investigations have focused on utilizing various convolutional neural network (CNN)-based techniques for automated diagnosis of AD through resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI). Two main constraints face the methodologies presented in these studies. First, overfitting occurs due to the small size of fMRI datasets. Second, an effective modeling of the 4D information from fMRI sessions is required. In order to represent the 4D information, some studies used the deep learning techniques on functional connectivity matrices created from fMRI data, or on fMRI data as distinct 2D slices or 3D volumes. However, this results in information loss in both types of methods. In order to model the spatiotemporal (4D) information of fMRI data for AD diagnosis, a new model based on the capsule network (CapsNet) and recurrent neural network (RNN) is proposed in this study. To assess the suggested model's effectiveness, experiments were run. The findings show that the suggested model could classify AD against normal control (NC) and late mild cognitive impairment (lMCI) against early mild cognitive impairment (eMCI) with accuracy rates of 94.5% and 61.8%, respectively.

Modulated synthesis of stoichiometric and sub-stoichiometric two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks for enhanced ethylene purification

Controlled synthesis of two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs), including stoichiometric and sub-stoichiometric variations, is a topic of growing interest due to its potential in gas separation applications. In this study, we successfully synthesized three distinct 2D COFs by carefully adjusting solvent compositions and monomer ratios during the synthesis of [4 + 4] type COFs. These included a stoichiometric [4 + 4] type COF and two sub-stoichiometric [4 + 2] type COFs, featuring unreacted amino or formyl groups. The resulting COFs exhibit different gas adsorption and separation properties. Specifically, sub-stoichiometric COF-DA with residual amino groups shows comparable adsorption capacity for C2H2, C2H4, and CO2 to stoichiometric COF-DAPy. In contrast, sub-stoichiometric COF-Py with residual formyl groups displays enhanced adsorption selectivity for C2H2/C2H4 and C2H2/CO2 separation, with the C2H2/C2H4 selectivity being the highest among reported COFs, attributed to increased pore polarity resulting from the presence of formyl groups. This study not only offers an additional example of sub-stoichiometric COF synthesis but also advocates for further exploration of sub-stoichiometric COF materials, particularly in the field of gas adsorption and separation.

EXPERIMENTING TIN DATA STRUCTURE FOR REPRESENTING PLANE SURFACE AND SUBSURFACE SPATIAL OBJECTS - PRELIMINARY WORK

Abstract. Understanding and analyzing complex spatial objects involves the integration of surface, terrain, and subsurface data into 3D spatial models. However, describing and efficiently analyzing the connections between these data model is particularly challenging. This study aims to generate TIN data structure that enable the 3D representation of surface terrain subsurface integration. Furthermore, to ensure accurate representation within a unified 3D model, spatial relationships between the TIN data model could be obtained. Consequently, three – dimensional Triangular Irregular Networks (3D TIN) mesh of spatial objects representations and indexing structures were created. The integration of spatial objects, encompassing surface, terrain, and subsurface elements, is realized through a unified model. This synergy is achieved by combining the distinct 2D and 3D topology structures of each component. The resulting comprehensive model captures the intricate relationships and interactions within the spatial environment. This study provides additional insight into the representation and analysis of surface, terrain, and subsurface management in 3D spatial models. Hence, better decision making, resource management, underground utility installations, and evaluation of spatial objects will be made possible in our future work.

Design and Construction of a Multi-Tiered Minimal Actin Cortex for Structural Support in Lipid Bilayer Applications.

Artificial lipid bilayers have revolutionized biochemical and biophysical research by providing a versatile interface to study aspects of cell membranes and membrane-bound processes in a controlled environment. Artificial bilayers also play a central role in numerous biosensing applications, form the foundational interface for liposomal drug delivery, and provide a vital structure for the development of synthetic cells. But unlike the envelope in many living cells, artificial bilayers can be mechanically fragile. Here, we develop prototype scaffolds for artificial bilayers made from multiple chemically linked tiers of actin filaments that can be bonded to lipid headgroups. We call the interlinked and layered assembly a multiple minimal actin cortex (multi-MAC). Construction of multi-MACs has the potential to significantly increase the bilayer's resistance to applied stress while retaining many desirable physical and chemical properties that are characteristic of lipid bilayers. Furthermore, the linking chemistry of multi-MACs is generalizable and can be applied almost anywhere lipid bilayers are important. This work describes a filament-by-filament approach to multi-MAC assembly that produces distinct 2D and 3D architectures. The nature of the structure depends on a combination of the underlying chemical conditions. Using fluorescence imaging techniques in model planar bilayers, we explore how multi-MACs vary with electrostatic charge, assembly time, ionic strength, and type of chemical linker. We also assess how the presence of a multi-MAC alters the underlying lateral diffusion of lipids and investigate the ability of multi-MACs to withstand exposure to shear stress.

Spacer-Programmed Two-Dimensional DNA Origami Assembly.

Two-dimensional (2D) DNA origami assembly represents a powerful approach to the programmable design and construction of advanced 2D materials. Within the context of hybridization-mediated 2D DNA origami assembly, DNA spacers play a pivotal role as essential connectors between sticky-end regions and DNA origami units. Here, we demonstrated that programming the spacer length, which determines the binding radius of DNA origami units, could effectively tune sticky-end hybridization reactions to produce distinct 2D DNA origami arrays. Using DNA-PAINT super-resolution imaging, we unveiled the significant impact of spacer length on the hybridization efficiency of sticky ends for assembling square DNA origami (SDO) units. We also found that the assembly efficiency and pattern diversity of 2D DNA origami assemblies were critically dependent on the spacer length. Remarkably, we realized a near-unity yield of ∼98% for the assembly of SDO trimers and tetramers via this spacer-programmed strategy. At last, we revealed that spacer lengths and thermodynamic fluctuations of SDO are positively correlated, using molecular dynamics simulations. Our study thus paves the way for the precision assembly of DNA nanostructures toward higher complexity.

Metaheuristic aided structural topology optimization method for heat sink design with low electromagnetic interference

This study investigates the application of the Metaheuristic Aided Structural Topology Optimization (MASTO) method as a novel approach to address the multiphysics design challenge of creating a heat sink with both high heat conductivity and minimal Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). A distinctive 2D layout with elongated fins is examined for electromagnetic traits, highlighting resonance-related EMI concerns. MASTO proves to be a valuable tool for navigating the complex design space, yielding thoughtfully optimized solutions that harmonize efficient heat dissipation with effective EMI control. By merging simulation findings with practical observations, this study underscores the potential of the MASTO method in achieving effective designs for intricate multiphysics optimization problems. Specifically, the method's capacity to address the complex interplay of heat transfer with convection and the suppression of electromagnetic emissions is showcased. Moreover, the study demonstrates the feasibility of translating these solutions into tangible outcomes through manufacturing processes.

Mechanistic insights into microwave-accelerated permeation through graphene-based membranes

Two-dimensional (2D) membranes, composed of stacked 2D nanomaterials, are increasingly utilized in separation fields due to their structured interlayer channels and ease of modification. The application of microwave technology to 2D membrane separation enhances permeability, but the unclear strengthening mechanism limits the further applications of this technique. This study aims to elucidate the fundamental principle behind microwave-accelerated permeability by investigating the performance of two distinct 2D membranes in response to microwaves: a microwave-transparent graphene oxide (GO) membrane and a microwave-absorbing GO-based membrane doped with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2-GO). Experimental results demonstrate that compared to conventional heating, microwave irradiation amplifies water and ethanol permeation flux through the GO membrane by 122% and 154%, respectively, without observed changes in membrane structure via SEM, XRD, and Raman analyses. In addition, the microwave accelerated permeation also occurs (by 110%) when Rhodamine B - aqueous solution was used as feed liquid, while the rejection rate was remained at above 99%, indicating the promising applications of microwave technology in sewage treatment. Further experiments show that the microwave-induced augmentation of water/ethanol permeation through the GO membrane was primarily governed by the dielectric loss values of the feed liquid. In contrast, this dependence vanished in the MoS2-GO membrane, indicating that accelerated permeation was mainly determined by the interaction between microwaves and diffusing molecules in the 2D channels, disrupted by microwave absorbing MoS2 in the latter case. These findings offer comprehensive insights into the enhancement of membrane permeation induced by microwave irradiation.