The hole transport layer (HTL)-free carbon-based perovskite solar cells (C-PSCs) are promising for commercialization owing to their excellent operational stability and simple fabrication process. However, the power conversion efficiencies (PCE) of C-PSCs are inferior to the metal electrode-based devices due to their open-circuit voltage (V_oc) loss. Herein, time-resolved confocal photoluminescence microscopy reveals that grain boundary defects at the perovskite/carbon interface are very likely to function as nonradiative recombination centers in HTL-free C-PSCs. A versatile additive Li₂CO₃ is used to modify the conformal tin oxide electron transport layer for HTL-free C-PSCs. Li₂CO₃ modification can result in enhanced charge extraction and optimized energy alignment at electron transport layer/perovskite interface, as well as suppressed defects at perovskite top surface due to Li₂CO₃-induced formation of PbI₂ crystallites. Such dual interfacial passivation ultimately leads to significantly improved V_oc up to 1.142 V, which is comparable to the metal electrode-based devices with HTL. Moreover, a record-high PCE of 33.2% is achieved for Li₂CO₃-modified C-PSCs under weak light illumination conditions, demonstrating excellent indoor photovoltaic performance. This work provides a practical approach to fabricate low-cost, highly efficient carbon-based perovskite solar cells.

A novel three-dimensional carbon current collector was developed, and Zn–N_x active sites were introduced to effectively tune its electronic structure, thereby improving the cycling stability of anode-free sodium metal batteries.

This research introduces a novel strategy for regulating internal crystalline forces to enhance pollutant degradation efficiency, opening a new avenue for developing advanced catalytic strategies for water remediation.

Pregnancy is one of life's most exciting chapters, but it also brings real health challenges. When nutrition during pregnancy is overlooked, it can affect the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Personalized nutrition, guided by genetic insights, reduces risks, improves outcomes, and supports lifelong health by tailoring food and supplement choices to each mother's body.

This study reveals epitaxial growth of gold-rich pyrite rims on pre-existing cores in Carlin-type deposits, driven by fluid-carbonate interactions. Consistent crystallographic orientations and geochemical zoning highlight the critical role of precursor pyrite in gold mineralization.

Researchers introduced malate biosynthetic capability into the yeast Candida glabrata to improve the oxidative stress tolerance. Due to the fact that malate biosynthesis activated the anti-oxidative defense system, the oxidative stress tolerance of C. glabrata exhibited a significant improvement. This strategy has application potential for the biosynthesis of pharmaceutical chemicals.

A major international collaboration between researchers in China and the U.S. has successfully synthesized a novel two-dimensional magnetic material (indium-based chromium telluride, CIT) using chemical vapor transport. A compound that exhibits robust ferromagnetism and magnetocaloric effect at room temperature with intriguing phase transition behavior and complex magnetic interaction. This discovery paves the way for novel applications in high-performance spintronics, magnetic refrigeration, and advanced electronic devices.

A research team uncovers a crucial molecular pathway by which sucrose, long known as a key energy source, also acts as a signaling molecule to regulate seed storage protein synthesis in maize.