bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scour of gravel beds at bridge piers and abutments
Authors: Raikar R. V. , Dey S.
Published: November 2005

Results of an experimental investigation into local scour at piers and abutments in uniform gravels under a clear water scour condition are presented. Two types of pier, namely circular and square, and two types of short abutment (abutment length/upstream flow depth < 1, for short abutments), namely wing-wall and vertical-wall, were tested. Although scour at piers and abutments has been studied widely in sand beds, it remains almost unexplored in gravel beds. Therefore, different gravel sizes, ranging from 4·1 mm to 14·25 mm, were used in this experimental study. The influence of gravel size on equilibrium scour depth at piers and abutments is prominent. From the experimental results, it is observed that the equilibrium scour depth increases with decrease in gravel size and with increase in pier width and abutment length. The variations of equilibrium scour depth with gravel size for both pier and abutment scour depart considerably from the variations of equilibrium scour depth with sand size. Consequently, for scour at piers and abutments, the resulting sediment size factors for gravels, evaluated by fitting envelope curves, are significantly different from the existing sediment size factor for sands. Combining pier and abutment scour data, an integrated approach to estimating the equilibrium scour depth at a bridge foundation is proposed. Scaling of distorted experimental model results to prototype is also discussed.
Hydraulic performance and stability of coarse rockfill deposits
Authors: Hansen D. , Zhao W. Z. , Han S. Y.
Published: November 2005

Open-pit coal mining operations often generate enormous quantities of waste rock. This is dumped into nearby valleys and the coarsest fraction ends up at the bottom of the deposit; the final result is often referred to as a ‘rock drain’. These ‘flow-through’ rockfill drains can be 100 m high, thousands of metres long, and usually have a stream flowing through their base. When the stream that supplies the rock drain floods, the ability of the drain to convey water is exceeded by its supply, and a large but temporary pool develops at the upstream end of the dump. More importantly, the free surface within the rock drain becomes elevated, as does the point of exit at the downstream face. Because of historic instances of failures at the downstream face, the management of these buried streams and the hydraulic behaviour of the rock drains through which they flow are of interest. The behaviour of homogeneous embankments comprised of coarse rockfill has many similarities to the behaviour of long rockfill drains. Methods for assessing the hydraulic performance of either are presented herein. Definition of the complete water surface ‘envelope’ and the tendency toward unravelling of the downstream face receive primary focus. It is demonstrated that the hydraulic gradient directly beneath the seepage face and small variations in its direction play a far greater role than seepage-face overflow in promoting unravelling failure, and argues that all such deposits are, in effect, embankment dams that should fall under the applicable national dam safety regulations.
Socially sensitive regulation for water services
Authors: Bateman J. S. , Sohail M. , Njiru C.
Published: November 2005

The provision of essential services such as water and sanitation may be considered a first step towards social inclusion. The overall sustainability of water and sanitation services also depends on social considerations. This paper explores the relationship between the regulator and the utility in the context of service provision for low-income users. It presents a general background to regulation in the water sector, along with some of the challenges faced by governments and regulators when implementing private sector involvement. Drawing upon the authors’ experience of water services management including regulation and private sector participation (PSP) in the water sector, the paper is based on a review of the literature, discussion with relevant professionals and an examination of a number of projects. The authors detail the role of the regulator and identify recurring themes relating to regulation and the poor. The shortcomings of specific projects are highlighted not as criticisms, but in the interest of sharing of knowledge and improving services to the poor in the long run. The paper includes suggestions on how regulation of water services could be undertaken in a low-income environment. The authors conclude that if water utilities are to perform in a socially sensitive manner, appropriate regulatory regimes are necessary.
Roof collection and storage of rainwater for drinking
Authors: Ashworth J.
Published: November 2005

Collecting rainwater from house roofs can provide both a reliable supply and one that complies with World Health Organisation drinking water guidelines. Mass balance allowance allows the storage volume to be assessed. Pathogen die-off in accordance with first order kinetics shows that two or more tanks operating in series will remove substantially more pathogens than a single tank of the same capacity. Drop inlet pipe, bottom overflow and a floating arm draw-off can provide the quiescent conditions for Cryptosporidium oocysts to settle and achieve drinking water protozoa compliance without microfiltration or ozone disinfection.
The Assessment of Platelet Activation in Antiplatelet Drug Development
Authors: Tan Kiat T. , Lip Gregory Y.H.
Published: November 2005

Platelet activation plays an important role in a wide range of pathological conditions. For example, platelet activation has been shown to be involved in the defence against parasitic infection, the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic disease, and various arterial and venous thrombotic diseases. Indeed, there is considerable interest in the manipulation of platelet function for therapeutic gain. It is for these reasons that there is considerable interest in developing assays measuring in vivo platelet activation. Current modalities in the measurement of platelet activation include Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA), platelet flow cytometry and electron microscopy. It is proposed that methods in measuring platelet activation can also be classified into direct and indirect modalities, both of which have their distinct advantages and disadvantages. Unfortunately, there is at present no consensus on the ideal method of measuring platelet activation. Thus, studies on platelet activation should ideally include at least one of each of direct and indirect modality of studying platelet activation. This review provides an overview of basic platelet biology and the various methods of measuring platelet activation, with an emphasis on their role in drug development.
Development of Lymphatic Vessels: Tumour Lymphangiogenesis and Lymphatic Invasion
Authors: Wilting J. , Hawighorst T. , Hecht M. , Christ B. , Papoutsi M.
Published: November 2005

In human solid cancer, the lymph node status is the most important prognostic indicator for the clinical outcome of patients. Follow-up data has shown that about 80% of metastasis follows an orderly pattern of progression via the lymphatic network while about 20% systemic metastasis occurs, bypassing the lymphatic system. Over the past few years, advances have been made in understanding the cellular and molecular aspects of physiological lymphangiogenesis and tumour-induced lymphangiogenesis, and the majority of studies point out to a positive correlation between tumour-induced lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis. However, the impact of intra- and peritumoural lymphatics on the tumour biology and the first steps of lymphatic metastasis, i.e. the invasion of tumour cells into the lymphatic vessels, are not well understood. We will give an outline of i. the physiological process of lymphangiogenesis, ii. tumour-induced lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis, iii. lymphatic invasion and the common pathways of tumourlymphangiogenesis and lymphatic invasion. The growing interest in this topic has brought up a number of new molecular players in the field, which may provide the basis for a rational therapy against the process of lymphatic dissemination of tumour cells.
Telomerase Inhibition and Cancer: Might Platinum Based Drugs have a Future as Anti-telomerase Pharmacological Approach?
Authors: Colangelo Donato , Osella Domenico
Published: November 2005

Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein polymerase that maintains the length of telomeric DNA by adding hexameric units (TTAGGG) to the ends of the chromosomes. This mechanism prevents replicative senescence, thus conferring unlimited proliferative potential to cells. Telomerase reactivation has been detected in most human tumour tissue, indicating that the enzyme may be useful as a specific tumour marker. The inhibition of telomerase causes a progressive and critical reduction of telomeres, leading to a potent signal for the blockage of cell proliferation and the induction of apoptosis. Since normal somatic cells lack telomerase activity, the anti-telomerase approach is highly specific for tumour cells and metastases. Prolonged treatment is required before enzyme deactivation causes the telomeres to be shortened enough to induce senescence and apoptosis. Therefore, the drugs employed in anti-telomerase therapy should be of only moderate non-specific cytotoxicity. Certain cis-Pt(II)-complexes have recently been shown to be effective inhibitors of telomerase in both cell-free and in vitro assays, most likely by targeting the nucleobases of the RNA component of the enzyme.
Quorum Sensing Inhibition: Targeting Chemical Communication in Gramnegative Bacteria
Authors: Persson Tobias , Givskov Michael , Nielsen John
Published: November 2005

Quorum sensing (QS) systems comprise a new therapeutic target potentially substitutive or complementary to traditional antibiotic treatment of chronic diseases. One route to disrupt the previously established interrelationship between pathogenesis and QS is by blocking the dual functioning signal/receptor transcriptional regulator in some clinically relevant Gram-negative bacteria. The present review contains all reported compound types that are currently known to inhibit the QS transcriptional regulator in Gram-negative bacteria. These compounds are sub-divided into two main groups, one comprising structural analogs of the native signaling molecules and the other compounds lacking structural resemblance. Biological activity is rationalized on the basis of structure-activity relationships and structural insight into the target protein.
Syntheses of Hydroxylated Cyclic β-Amino Acid Derivatives
Authors: Palko Marta , Kiss Lorand , Fulop Ferenc
Published: November 2005

This review is intended to give a short summary of the developments in the field of natural and synthetic alicyclic and heterocyclic hydroxylated β-amino acids and to focus on the main strategies that have been reported for their synthesis. Given the medicinal and biological significance of the hydroxylated β-amino acids, an increasing volume of research is currently being directed toward regio-, stereo- and enantioselective access to this class of compounds.
Phosphate Isosteres in Medicinal Chemistry
Authors: Rye C. S. , Baell J. B.
Published: November 2005

The phosphate group is at the heart of an enormous number of biological processes. The simple phosphorylation or dephosphorylation of a protein can have a wide range of consequences, including effects on its biological activity, its interaction with other proteins, and on its subcellular location. Abnormal levels of protein phosphorylation have been linked to a wide range of diseases including cancer and diabetes. Consequently, proteins that recognise the phosphate moiety have become an attractive target for therapeutic development. The most prevalent medicinal chemistry research examines the interactions of phosphorylated tyrosine residues; however, the role of phosphate groups on serine or threonine residues, in nucleotides, DNA and RNA, on sugars, and lipid mediators such as lysophosphatidic acid should not be overlooked. Investigations have focused on the non-catalytic phosphotyrosine-recognising domains such as Src homology 2 (SH2) and phosphotyrosine binding (PTB) domains, as well as catalytic proteins such as protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B). The utilisation of the phosphate moiety as part of an inhibitor is severely limited by the enzymatic lability and poor cellular bioavailability of this highly charged recognition element. The development of phosphate isosteres attempts to address these issues by introducing a non-scissile bond and utilizing groups with less charge that are still able to interact favourably with the target protein in much the same way as the phosphate group does. Many phosphate mimics retain the phosphorus atom such as in the highly successful fluoromethylenephosphonates, whereas others have lost the tetrahedral phosphate geometry and are based on the combination of one or more carboxylate groups that generally reduce the overall charge of the molecule. This review focuses on the recent developments and the use of phosphate isosteres in medicinal chemistry, covering roughly the past four years.
A Yeast Extract High in Bioactive Peptides has a Blood-Pressure Lowering Effect in Hypertensive Model
Authors: Kanauchi Osamu , Igarashi Kiharu , Ogata Rie , Mitsuyama Keiichi , Andoh Akira
Published: November 2005

It was reported that angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) plays an important role in increasing blood pressure. Recently, it was reported that several food hydrolysates have ACE inhibitory effects in the spontaneous hypertensive rat (SHR) model and mildly hypertensive subjects. Therefore, the anti-hypertensive effects of brewers yeast BY-G were investigated, which contains many kinds of beneficial nutrients (vitamins, minerals, nucleic acids, glutathione, amino acids, etc.). The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-hypertensive effects of BY-G and i ts component peptides obtained by enzymatic treatment. The peptide fraction KRF814 was obtained by the hydrolysate of BY-G with alkaline protease and then treated with Amberlite XAD-2. The KRF814, which has an inhibitory effect on ACE in vitro, was obtained. BY-G and KRF814 were fed to male SHR and showed significantly anti-hypertensive effects. KRF814 contained alanyl-phenylalanine (AF) and glycyl-phenylalanine (GF), which significantly decreased systolic BP in the SHR model. The active ingredients of KRF814, AF, and GF had about 60% of the potency of the positive control, which was captopril. It i s considered that intake of BY-G or its component peptides as a functional food stuff might be beneficial for improving BP in people with hypertension.
Neuropeptide-Derived Antimicrobial Peptides from Invertebrates for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Salzet Michel
Published: November 2005

Since the beginning of the 20th century, important medicinal progress has led medical doctors to think that the end of devastating epidemics has arrived. In 1930, the discovery of sulfamides and penicillin opened a wide area of applications able to fight against bacterial infections. However, almost all antibiotics were baffled by the great ability to adaptation of bacteria (1) and the emergence of new bacterial agents, discovered with up-dated technologies. The living world is perpetually in co-evolution and since more than 3 billion years, bacteria have developed resistance mechanisms to overcome external aggressions. Thus, in the middle of the 80th century, multi-resistant bacteria appeared and disseminated out from hospitals. In this context, researches have been developed in order to find new antimicrobial substances to destroy such new types of bacteria. Thus, several groups have turned their focus on invertebrates, which co-evoluad with human and have appeared on the planet since a long time. Evidence of new families of antimicrobial substances isolated from invertebrates different to the classical cationic peptide family i.e. dipeptides and anionic peptides been given. Moreover, these molecules are also present in human and may serve in the innate immune response as an important survival strategy.
RNA Interference as A Gene-Specific Approach for Molecular Medicine
Authors: Grunweller A. , Hartmann R. K.
Published: November 2005

The discovery of RNA interference (RNAi) in eukaryotic cells has been the major recent breakthrough in molecular and cell biology. RNAi machineries exert biological functions in gene regulation, genome defense and chromatin architecture and dynamics. The potential of RNAi to silence any gene of interest in a highly specific and efficient manner via double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) has literally revolutionized modern genetics. RNAi-based functional genomics now permits, for the first time, to evaluate the cellular role of individual gene products on a genome-wide scale in higher organisms like mammals, presenting an alternative to the generation of animal knockouts often doomed to failure because of a lethal phenotype. RNAi has had an enormous impact on the development of novel disease models in animals, and it is likely that small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), which are the trigger molecules for RNA silencing, will become an invaluable tool for the treatment of genetic diseases. First clinical trials, using siRNAs directed against the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or one of its receptors, have been initiated recently for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration. Improving guidelines for the rational design of siRNAs, based on recent progress in understanding the mechanisms underlying RNAi, as well as the introduction of chemical modifications into siRNAs are expected to improve their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties for in vivo applications. Finally, successful therapeutic application of RNAi will depend on the development of improved siRNA delivery strategies that combine high specificity and efficiency with a low immunostimulatory and tumorigenic potential.
Patient Safety and Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Care
Authors: Ratwani Raj M. , Bates David W. , Classen David C.
Published: February 2024

This Viewpoint offers 3 recommendations for health care organizations and other stakeholders to consider as part of the Health and Human Services’ artificial intelligence safety program.
Magnetic resonance guided adaptive post prostatectomy radiotherapy: Accumulated dose comparison of different workflows
Authors: Hassan Sean P. , de Leon Jeremiah , Batumalai Vikneswary , Moutrie Zoe , Hogan Louise , Ge Yuanyuan , Stricker Phillip , Jameson Michael G.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the use of magnetic resonance guided adaptive radiotherapy (MRgART) in the post‐prostatectomy setting; comparing dose accumulation for our initial seven patients treated with fully adaptive workflow on the Unity MR‐Linac (MRL) and with non‐adaptive plans generated offline. Additionally, we analyzed toxicity in patients receiving treatment.

Methods

Seven patients were treated with MRgART. The prescription was 70–72 Gy in 35–36 fractions. Patients were treated with an adapt to shape (ATS) technique. For each clinically delivered plan, a non‐adaptive plan based upon the reference plan was generated and compared to the associated clinically delivered plan. A total of 468 plans were analyzed. Concordance Index of target and Organs at Risk (OARs) for each fraction with reference contours was analyzed. Acute toxicity was then assessed at six‐months following completion of treatment with Common Terminology for Adverse Events (CTCAE) Toxicity Criteria.

Results

A total of 246 fractions were clinically delivered to seven patients; 234 fractions were delivered via MRgART and 12 fractions delivered via a traditional linear accelerator due to machine issues. Pre‐treatment reference plans met CTV and OAR criteria. PTV coverage satisfaction was higher in the clinically delivered adaptive plans than non‐adaptive comparison plans; 42.93% versus 7.27% respectively. Six‐month CTCAE genitourinary and gastrointestinal toxicity was absent in most patients, and mild‐to‐moderate in a minority of patients (Grade 1 GU toxicity in one patient and Grade 2 GI toxicity in one patient).

Conclusions

Daily MRgART treatment consistently met planning criteria. Target volume variability in prostate bed treatment can be mitigated by using MRgART and deliver satisfactory coverage of CTV whilst minimizing dose to adjacent OARs and reducing toxicity
Parkinsonism‐dystonia‐2: Case‐series study from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almuqbil Mohammed A. , Tabassum Sadia , Muthaffar Osama Y. , Ghamdi Fouad , Al Masseri Zainab , Alsaman Abdulaziz , Alkhater Reem A.
Published: February 2024

Parkinsonism‐dystonia‐2 PKDYS2 is an autosomal‐recessive disorder, caused by pathogenic biallelic variants in SLC18A2 which encodes the vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT2) protein. PKDYS2 is a treatable neurotransmitter disease, and the rate of diagnosis of this disorder has increased significantly with the advance of genomic technologies. Our report highlights a novel pathologic variant in one case and a novel finding on MRI Brain, consisting of a normal symmetrical signal intensity in the dorsal brainstem and pons, and it substantiates the significance of genetic testing in the evaluation of children with developmental delays, which influences clinical decisions to enhance patient outcomes.
Loneliness as neurobehavioral issue in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Consonni Monica , Faltracco Veronica , Dalla Bella Eleonora , Telesca Alessandra , Bersano Enrica , Nigri Anna , Demichelis Greta , Medina Jean P. , Bruzzone Maria G. , Lauria Giuseppe
Published: February 2024

Objective

In elderly people loneliness represents a risk factor for dementia and may negatively impact on mental and physical health. The specific contribute of loneliness to cognitive and behavioral functioning have not yet been determined in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Our hypothesis was that loneliness may be related to motor dysfunction with a negative impact on cognitive and behavioral decline, possibly related to specific cortical involvement.

Methods

In 200 ALS patients (ALSpts) and 50 healthy controls (HCs) we measured loneliness, mood, and quality of life (QoL). ALSpts underwent comprehensive clinical, genetic, and neuropsychological assessment to define phenotypes. Seventy‐seven ALSpts performed 3T MRI scans to measure cortical thickness. Between‐group, partial correlation and regression analyses were used to examined clinical, neuropsychological, and cortical signatures of loneliness.

Results

Feelings of loneliness were documented in 38% of ALSpts (ALS/L+pts) and in 47% of HCs. In both groups loneliness was associated with anxiety (P < 0.001), depression (P ≤ 0.005), and poor QoL (P < 0.001). ALS/L+pts had similar motor dysfunctions and cognitive abilities than non‐lonely ALSpts, but distinct behavioral profiles (P ≤ 0.005) and frontoparietal involvement (P < 0.05). Loneliness in ALS is related to behavioral changes, apathy, and emotional dysregulation (P < 0.001).

Interpretation

Our cross‐sectional study indicates that, in ALS, the satisfaction of social environment is associated with a sense of life well‐being that is not limited to the motor status, proving instead that loneliness can impact on disease‐related neurobehavioral changes with a possible flashback on brain architecture. This suggests that sociality could promote personal resilience against behavioral and affective decline in ALS.
Evaluating High‐Pressure Torsion Scale‐Up
Authors: Reis Leonardo M. , Hohenwarter Anton , Kawasaki Megumi , Figueiredo Roberto B.
Published: February 2024

Increasing sample dimensions in high‐pressure torsion (HPT) processing affects load and torque requirements, deformation distribution, and heating. Finite‐element modeling (FEM) and experiments are used to investigate the effect of technical parameters on the scaling up of HPT. Simulations confirm that axial load and torque requirements are proportional to the square and the cube of the sample radius, respectively. The temperature rise also displays a pronounced dependency on the radius. Decreasing the diameter‐to‐thickness ratio can cause heterogeneity in strain distribution along the thickness direction at the edges of the sample. Such heterogeneity is governed by friction conditions between the material and the lateral wall of the anvil depression. Simulation of HPT processing of ring‐shaped samples shows that it is possible to reach more homogeneous distribution of strain and flow stress in the processed material. Experiments using magnesium confirm a tendency for strain localization in the early stage of HPT processing but increasing the number of turns increases the homogeneity of the material. The embodied energy in HPT processing is discussed.
Boosting Selective Na+ Migration Kinetics in Structuring Composite Polymer Electrolyte Realizes Ultrastable All‐Solid‐State Sodium Batteries
Authors: Guo Junhong , Feng Fan , Jiang Xinyi , Wang Rui , Chu Dongkun , Ren Yufeng , Chen Fangfang , He Peng , Ma Zi‐Feng , Chen Suli , Liu Tianxi
Published: February 2024

Composite polymer electrolytes demonstrate the predictable potential for achieving high‐performance all‐solid‐state sodium metal batteries (ASSMBs). However, the insufficient ionic conductivity resulting from the sluggish Na+ transport kinetics and the inferior interfacial stability caused by simultaneous Na+ and anion transport have hindered practical applications. Herein, a rational structural design strategy is proposed to construct an anion‐trapping boron‐contained covalent organic framework (B‐COF) network in the polymer matrix to facilitate selective Na+ migration and interfacial compatibility for ASSMBs. The abundant Lewis‐acid sites on the B‐COF network can promote the dissociation of sodium salt and simultaneously constrain the migration of TFSI− anions through the strong anion‐capturing effect. Moreover, the well‐defined ion‐conducting channel formed by the in situ generation of intimately packed B‐COF combined with the above synergistic effects can afford continuous and accessible pathways for selectively rapid Na+ transport, which significantly elevates the ionic conductivity and Na+ transference number, respectively. Surprisingly, the Na plating/stripping with small polarization is retained under 0.1 mA cm−2 for more than 365 d (>8800 h), representing a record‐high cycling stability for ASSMBs. As proof of applied studies, the ASSMBs exhibit a high capacity retention (≈81.2%) after 1200 cycles at 1 C, signifying promising application in all‐solid‐state electrochemical energy storage systems.
Magneto‐Responsive Bistable Structures with Rate‐Dependent Actuation Modes
Authors: Perez‐Garcia Carlos , Aranda‐Ruiz Josue , Lopez‐Donaire Maria Luisa , Zaera Ramon , Garcia‐Gonzalez Daniel
Published: February 2024

Structural instabilities can be used to provide rapid responses activated by mechanical force or displacement thresholds. The emergence of responsive materials has opened the door for adapting such structural instabilities to actuators that will abruptly deform guided by external stimuli. However, fast configurational transitions between equilibrium states imply important viscoelastic roles at the material level that inevitably scale up to the structural level. A comprehensive understanding of viscoelastic effects is provided on bistable structural transitions combining a new experimental perspective and a thorough modeling analysis. The insights from these results are here translated to magneto‐responsive bistable structures offering a route‐map to design effective actuation conditions. The bistable transition functionally depends on the combination of magnetic field amplitude and application rate. The understanding of the viscoelastic and magneto‐mechanical coupling provides efficient actuation via temporal magnetic pulses, removing the need of generating continued magnetic fields. Finally, these insights are combined to develop a responsive structure whose transient and steady bistable transitions can be modulated by the application rate of external magnetic stimuli.
Simultaneous Regulation of Coordination Environment and Electrode Interface for Highly Stable Zinc Anode Using a Bifunctional Citrulline Additive
Authors: Chen Jingzhu , Liu Ning , Dong Wujie , Xu Yang , Cao Yuge , Zhang Shicong , Hou Jingshan , Bi Hui , Lin Tianquan , Huang Fu‐Qiang
Published: February 2024

Aqueous zinc ion batteries are promising candidates for large‐scale energy storage. Nonetheless, the stability of Zn anodes in aqueous electrolytes is compromised by dendritic growth and undesirable side reactions. In this article, citrulline (Cit), a biocompatible compound, is investigated as an electrolyte additive to achieve superior stability of Zn anodes. Experimental results and theoretical calculations demonstrate that the Cit, serving as a bifunctional additive, possesses abundant highly polar groups (─NH2 and ─COOH) that facilitate strong interactions with Zn2+ and Zn metal. This dual regulation of the Zn2+ solvation shell and the electrical double layer at the anode/electrolyte interface effectively mitigates dendrite growth and suppresses interface side reactions, resulting in exceptional stability of Zn anode. Consequently, Zn||Zn symmetric batteries incorporating the Cit additive exhibit stable operation for over 1600 h at 1.0 mA cm−2 and 1.0 mAh cm−2, and maintain stable cycling for 650 h even under demanding conditions of 10.0 mA cm−2 and 10.0 mAh cm−2, corresponding to an ultra‐high cumulative plated capacity of 3.25 Ah cm−2. Furthermore, Zn||Cu asymmetric batteries achieve a remarkable Coulombic efficiency of 99.6% at 1.0 mA cm−2 and 0.5 mAh cm−2. These advancements also extend to the improved performance of assembled full batteries.
Robust Multi‐Halide Methylammonium‐Free Perovskite Solar Cells on an Inverted Architecture
Authors: Jeronimo‐Rendon Jose J. , Turren‐Cruz Silver‐Hamill , Pascual Jorge , Girolamo Diego Di , Flatken Marion A. , Köbler Hans , Hempel Wolfram , Li Meng , Carlo Aldo Di , Boix Pablo P. , Mora‐Seró Iván , Abate Antonio , Saliba Michael
Published: February 2024

Developing efficient wide‐bandgap perovskites is critical to exploit the benefits of a multi‐absorber solar cell and engineering commercially attractive tandem solar cells. Here, a robust, additive‐free, methylammonium‐free triple halide composition for the fabrication of close‐to‐ideal wide‐bandgap perovskites (1.64 eV) is reported. The introduction of low percentages of chloride into the perovskite layer avoided photoinduced halide segregation and lead to an evident improvement in the crystallization process, reaching enhanced open‐circuit voltages as high as 1.23 V. A perovskite of these characteristics is introduced for the first time in a p‐i‐n single‐junction configuration using a self‐assembled monolayer, with devices achieving photoconversion efficiencies of up to 22.6% with ultra‐high stability, retaining ≈80% of their initial efficiency after >1000 h of continuous operation unencapsulated in a nitrogen atmosphere at 85 °C. This result paves the way toward highly efficient multi‐junction tandem solar cells, bringing perovskite technology closer to commercialization.
Enabling Stable Zn Anode with PVDF/CNTs Nanocomposites Protective Layer Toward High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Jinchang , Peng Jingsong , Huang Weifeng , Liang Hanqin , Hao Yida , Li Jiefei , Chu Haibin , Wei Hang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Liu Jian
Published: February 2024

Due to its abundance of natural resources, high theoretical capacity, and suitable redox potential (−0.76 V vs SHE), Zn anode has received extensive attention both from academy and industry. However, the coexistence of Zn and H2O, which is unfortunately thermodynamically unstable, always involves severe metal corrosion, H2 evolution, dendrite growth, resulting in low reversibility of Zn anode. Herein, a phase transfer method is adapted to design a porous conductive protective layer on the Zn anode, denoted as (PVDF (Polyvinylidene fluoride)/CNTs(Carbon Nanotubes)‐PT(phase transfer) @ Zn). Based on in situ characterization, COMSOL simulation, and migration energy barrier calculation, it can be demonstrated that PVDF/CNTs‐PT @ Zn effectively inhibited the production of Zn dendrites and the side reactions triggered by H2O, achieving uniform deposition. Especially, the full picture of Zn deposition is observed using in situ computed tomography (CT). The symmetrical cell using the PVDF/CNTs‐PT @ Zn demonstrates dendrite‐free plating/stripping and possesses much better cycle stability than the bare Zn. A stable rechargeable full battery is demoed through coupling the PVDF/CNTs‐PT @ Zn anode with commercial V2O5. The strategy showcases a feasible pathway to inhibit Zn dendrite and side reactions in aqueous Zn ion battery, opening a promising avenue for the construction of metal anode protection layer.
Bioinspired Gas Manipulation for Regulating Multiphase Interactions in Electrochemistry
Authors: Long Zhiyun , Yu Cunming , Cao Moyuan , Ma Jun , Jiang Lei
Published: February 2024

The manipulation of gas in multiphase interactions plays a crucial role in various electrochemical processes. Inspired by nature, researchers have explored bioinspired strategies for regulating these interactions, leading to remarkable advancements in design, mechanism, and applications. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of bioinspired gas manipulation in electrochemistry. It traces the evolution of gas manipulation in gas‐involving electrochemical reactions, highlighting the key milestones and breakthroughs achieved thus far. The paper then delves into the design principles and underlying mechanisms of superaerophobic and (super)aerophilic electrodes, as well as asymmetric electrodes. Furthermore, the applications of bioinspired gas manipulation in hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), and other gas‐involving electrochemical reactions are summarized. The promising prospects and future directions in advancing multiphase interactions through gas manipulation are also discussed.
From Nature‐Sourced Polysaccharide Particles to Advanced Functional Materials
Authors: Ma Yingshan , Morozova Sofia M. , Kumacheva Eugenia
Published: February 2024

Polysaccharides constitute over 90% of the carbohydrate mass in nature, which makes them a promising feedstock for manufacturing sustainable materials. Polysaccharide particles (PSPs) are used as effective scavengers, carriers of chemical and biological cargos, and building blocks for the fabrication of macroscopic materials. The biocompatibility and degradability of PSPs are advantageous for their uses as biomaterials with more environmental friendliness. This review highlights the progresses in PSP applications as advanced functional materials, by describing PSP extraction, preparation, and surface functionalization with a variety of functional groups, polymers, nanoparticles, and biologically active species. This review also outlines the fabrication of PSP‐derived macroscopic materials, as well as their applications in soft robotics, sensing, scavenging, water harvesting, drug delivery, and bioengineering. The paper is concluded with an outlook providing perspectives in the development and applications of PSP‐derived materials.
Sedimentation‐Based Confinement of Individual Giant Unilamellar Vesicles in Microchamber Arrays with a Dynamically Exchangeable Outer Medium
Authors: Ali Syed Kaabir , Sella Catherine , Dilhas Vadim , Jacková Barbara , Mariconti Marina , Gomez‐Cruz Clara , Thouin Laurent , Morel Mathieu , Baigl Damien , Yamada Ayako
Published: February 2024

Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) are an ideal model to study cellular membrane functions in vitro, yet difficult to manipulate due to their fragile nature, especially when subjected to dynamic change of their external microenvironment. Here, an original microfluidic concept is introduced for constraint‐free confinement of individual GUVs in microchambers with a dynamically exchangeable outer medium. GUVs self‐confine in an array of laterally separated microchambers by sedimentation, avoiding any mechanical constraint while allowing diffusion‐based exchange of the outer medium via a microfluidic channel and time‐resolved microscopy observation. The geometric and flow parameters optimizing medium exchange while preventing GUV from lifting out are numerically established. Different aqueous solutions separated by air plugs can be flowed into the channel by taking advantage of a polydimethylsiloxane‐based hydrophilic channel wall. The possibility to manipulate microliter sample volumes for in situ observation of protein cell‐free expression is also exploited. It is found that the membrane‐targeting sequence of Bacillus subtilis MinD binds to GUVs and induces extensive membrane tubulation. This technically simple method offers a robust way to confine GUVs and dynamically control their outer medium, thus constituting an ideal platform to study the spatio‐temporal response of reconstituted membranes and/or synthetic cell studies subjected to dynamic micro‐environments.
Electrolyte Degradation During Aging Process of Lithium‐Ion Batteries: Mechanisms, Characterization, and Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Liao Yiqing , Zhang Huiyan , Peng Yufan , Hu Yonggang , Liang Jinding , Gong Zhengliang , Wei Yimin , Yang Yong
Published: February 2024

Given that the non‐aqueous electrolyte in Li‐ion battery plays a specific role as an ion‐transport medium and interfacial modifier for both cathode and anode, understanding and evaluating the evolution and degradation of electrolytes throughout the life cycle is a fundamental concern within the lithium‐ion battery (LIB) community. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the electrolyte decomposition processes, mechanisms, effects of electrolyte degradation on the battery performance, characterization techniques, and modeling analysis. First, it thoroughly discusses the processes and mechanisms involved in electrolyte degradation from two primary perspectives: 1) the formation of the electrode‐electrolyte interphase and 2) the decomposition of the bulk electrolyte. Subsequently, it systematically outlines the effects of electrolyte degradation on the battery performance. The article further introduces cutting‐edge characterization and detection techniques used to assess electrolyte degradation, with a specific emphasis on quantitative methods for analyzing residual electrolytes in practical cells. Moreover, it summarizes advanced physical models of electrolyte decomposition. Finally, the paper concludes by offering insights into future trends and potential challenges in battery degradation research, it offers valuable references and guidance for further exploration of electrolyte degradation in LIBs.
Insights into the Jahn‐Teller Effect in Layered Oxide Cathode Materials for Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zheng Yunshan , Xie Huixian , Li Junfeng , Hui Kwan San , Yu Zhenjiang , Xu Huifang , Dinh Duc Anh , Ye Zhengqing , Zha Chenyang , Hui Kwun Nam
Published: February 2024

Potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) have attracted increasing interest as promising alternatives to lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) in large‐scale electrical energy storage systems due to the potential price advantages, abundant availability of potassium resources, and low standard redox potential of potassium. However, the pursuit of suitable cathode materials that exhibit desirable characteristics such as voltage platforms, high capacity, and long cycling stability is of utmost importance. Recently, layered transition‐metal oxides for PIBs offer great potential due to their high theoretical capacity, suitable voltage range, and eco‐friendliness. Nevertheless, the progress of KxMO2 cathodes in PIBs faces obstacles due to the detrimental effects of structural disorder and irreversible phase transitions caused by the Jahn‐Teller effect. This review provides a brief description of the origin and mechanism of the Jahn‐Teller effect, accompanied by the proposed principles to mitigate this phenomenon. In particular, the current status of KxMO2 cathodes for PIBs, is summarized highlighting the challenges posed by the Jahn‐Teller effect. Furthermore, promising strategies, such as composition modulation, synthesis approaches, and surface modification, are proposed to alleviate and suppress the Jahn‐Teller effect. These strategies offer valuable insights into the prospects of innovative cathode materials and provide a foundation for future research in the field of PIBs.
Non‐destructive and deep learning‐enhanced characterization of 4H‐SiC material
Authors: Ye Xiaofang , Zhang Aizhong , Huang Jiaxin , Kang Wenyu , Jiang Wei , Li Xu , Yin Jun , Kang Junyong
Published: February 2024

The silicon carbide (SiC) crystal growth is a multiple‐phase aggregation process of Si and C atoms. With the development of the clean energy industry, the 4H‐SiC has gained increasing attention as it is an ideal material for new energy automobiles and optoelectronic devices. The aggregation process is normally complex and dynamic due to its distinctive formation energy, and it is hard to study and trace back in a non‐destructive and comprehensive way. Here, this work developed a non‐destructive and deep learning‐enhanced characterization method of 4H‐SiC material, which was based on micro‐CT scanning, the verification of various optical measurements, and the convolutional neural network (ResNet‐50 architecture). Harmful defects at the micro‐level, polytypes, micropipes, and carbon inclusions could be identified and orientated with more than 96% high performance on both accuracy and precision. The three‐dimensional visual reconstruction with quantitative analyses provided a vivid tracing back of the SiC aggregation process. This work demonstrated a useful tool to understand and optimize the SiC growth technology and further enhance productivity.
Dimerization extends π‐conjugation of electron donor‐acceptor structures leading to phototheranostic properties beyond the sum of two monomers
Authors: Li Heng , Li Qing , Gu Ying , Wang Mengying , Tan Pu , Wang Hengtao , Han Liang , Zhu Yulin , He Feng , Tian Leilei
Published: February 2024

Near‐infrared (NIR)‐II fluorescence imaging‐guided photothermal therapy (PTT) has attracted great research interest, and constructing donor‐acceptor (D‐A) electronic configurations has become an established approach to lower bandgap and realize NIR‐II emission. However, very few π‐conjugated phototheranostic agents can realize efficient NIR‐II guided PTT using a clinically safe laser power density, implying that sufficient photothermal performance is still desired. In addition to the continuously refreshed photothermal conversion efficiency levels, the strategies that focus on enhancing light absorptivity have been rarely discussed and endow a new direction for enhancing PTT. Herein, a dimerization π‐extension strategy is raised to synthesize π‐conjugated dimers with A‐D‐A monomers. We observe that the light absorptivity (ε) of the dimers is strengthened three times owing to the enhanced electronic coupling effect as a result of the π‐conjugation extension, thereby surpassing the 2‐fold increase in chromophore numbers from the monomer to dimers. Thanks to the enhancement in light absorption, the dimers could generate much more photothermal heat than the monomer in in vivo PTT treatments. Therefore, an efficient anti‐tumor outcome has been fulfilled by using dimers under a low laser power (0.3 W/cm2). Moreover, the dimers with extended π‐conjugation structures become more favorable to the radiative excited state decay, thus exhibiting a distinguishing improvement in NIR‐II imaging compared with monomer. Collectively, due to the improved light absorptivity, the dimers can gain superior NIR‐II fluorescence brightness and photothermal performance over the recently reported material, which goes beyond the monomer in double doses for in vivo applications. All these results prove that dimerization is an effective strategy for designing high‐performance phototheranostic materials.
Hybrid Orbital Formation and Multicenter Bonding of Hydrogen Atoms and Molecules in Ti3C2${\rm Ti}_{3}{\rm C}_{2}$ MXenes
Authors: Nickel Norbert H.
Published: February 2024

The formation and stability of solids and molecules is not possible without chemical bonds, which are divided into covalent, ionic, metallic, and van der Waals bonds. A special type of intermolecular bond is hydrogen bonding, which plays a crucial role for chemical, biological, and physical processes. However, hydrogen shows a far more complex behavior when it is present in solids. In this paper, it is shown that the chemical bonding of hydrogen atoms and molecules extends far beyond the simple picture of conventional, ionic, covalent, and multicenter bonds. The interaction of H with its host material is particularly important for hydrogen storage in metallic materials such as MXenes. Hydrogen atoms and molecules form multicenter bonds in . On the surface and between two sheets this is limited to the formation of H–Ti bonds. However, H and on interstitial sites form multicenter bonds not only with nearest neighbor Ti atoms but also with carbon atoms. Interestingly, the H–C bonds are characterized by the formation of s–p hybrid orbitals. For molecules, multicenter bond formation is accompanied by an increase of the bond length to 2.07 and 1.85 Å for on the surface and at the interstitial site, respectively. On the other hand, placing between two sheets of leads to dissociation. For all H and complexes the vibrational eigenmodes are calculated. Their frequencies are in the range of 890 to 1610 , which indicates that the bonds are remarkably strong.
A Hybrid Redox‐Mediated Zinc‐Air Fuel Cell for Scalable and Sustained Power Generation
Authors: Song Yuxi , Xia Lingchao , Salla Manohar , Xi Shibo , Fu Weiyin , Wang Wanwan , Gao Mengqi , Huang Songpeng , Huang Shiqiang , Wang Xun , Yu Xingzi , Niu Tong , Zhang Yuqi , Wang Shijie , Han Ming , Ni Meng , Wang Qing , Zhang Hang
Published: February 2024

Zinc‐air batteries (ZABs) have attracted considerable attention for their high energy density, safety, low noise, and eco‐friendliness. However, the capacity of mechanically rechargeable ZABs was limited by the cumbersome procedure for replacing the zinc anode, while electrically rechargeable ZABs suffer from issues including low depth of discharge, zinc dendrite and dead zinc formation, and sluggish oxygen evolution reaction, etc. To address these issues, we report a hybrid redox‐mediated zinc‐air fuel cell (HRM‐ZAFC) utilizing 7,8‐dihydroxyphenazine‐2‐sulfonic acid (DHPS) as the anolyte redox mediator, which shifts the zinc oxidation reaction from the electrode surface to a separate fuel tank. This approach decouples fuel feeding and electricity generation, providing greater operation flexibility and scalability for large‐scale power generation applications. The DHPS‐mediated ZAFC exhibited a superior peak power density of 0.51 W/cm2 and a continuous discharge capacity of 48.82 Ah with ZnO as the discharge product in the tank, highlighting its potential for power generation.