Islet cell transplantation represents an innovative therapeutic approach for the management of diabetes. Nevertheless, the immune rejection and suboptimal survival rates of transplanted cells hinder its broader applications. In this study, we developed a distinctive vascularized artificial islet by incorporating a microvascular network with hydrogel microcarriers that encapsulate islet cells. This endeavor aimed to create a biomimetic artificial islet model, proposing a novel solution for diabetes treatment. The cover story draws inspiration from "Jingwei Filling the Sea", an ancient Chinese myth in which the goddess Jingwei persistently throws stones into the ocean. This parallels the function of biomimetic artificial islets, which consistently release insulin into the recipient following transplantation to treat diabetes effectively.

artificial islet model, microfluidics, vascularization, hydrogel, diabetes

DOI: 10.1088/2752-5724/ad47ce

Rechargeable zinc-iodine (ZnI2) batteries have garnered attention for their resource abundance, high safety, and impressive theoretical capacity. However, these aqueous batteries still face technical challenges, such as battery swelling caused by hydrogen evolution and short circuits due to zinc dendrite growth. This study introduces a flexible solid-state ZnI2 battery employing a perfluoropolyether (PFPE)-based polymer electrolyte. This electrolyte forms a stable solid electrolyte interphase  on the zinc anode, directing zinc growth and suppressing dendrite formation. Moreover, the densely structured electrolyte inhibits iodine shuttling, protecting the active material while preventing further corrosion of the zinc foil.

 zinc-Iodine Battery, solid Electrolyte, electrolyte Interface

DOI: 10.1088/2752-5724/ad50f1