bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and performance of BNR activated sludge systems with flat sheet membranes for solid-liquid separation
Authors: du Toit G.J.G. , Ramphao M.C. , Parco V. , Wentzel M.C. , Ekama G.A.
Published: September 2007

The use of immersed membranes for solid-liquid separation in biological nutrient removal activated sludge (BNRAS) systems was investigated at lab scale. Two laboratory-scale BNR activated sludge systems were run in parallel, one a MBR system and the other a conventional system with secondary settling tanks. Both systems were in 3 reactor anaerobic, anoxic, aerobic UCT configurations. The systems were set up to have, as far as possible, identical design parameters such as reactor mass fractions, recycles and sludge age. Differences were the influent flow and total reactor volumes, and the higher reactor concentrations in the MBR system. The performances of the two systems were extensively monitored and compared to identify and quantify the influence of the membranes on system response.

The MBR UCT system exhibited COD, FSA, TKN, TP and TSS removals that were consistently equivalent or superior to the conventional system. Better P removal in the MBR was attributed to lower observed P uptake in the anoxic zone. High nitrate loads to the anoxic reactor appeared to be the determining factor in stimulating P uptake.

The MBR UCT system had a greater sludge production than the conventional system. This was partly attributable to the retention of all solids in the MBR reactor. For steady state design this increase is accommodated by increasing the influent unbiodegradable particulate COD fraction. Additionally an attempt was made to determine the Alpha values in the oxygen transfer rate.

This paper briefly summarises and compares the results from both systems, and the conclusions that can be drawn from these results.
Family Care before and after Bereavement
Authors: Kissane David , Lichtenthal Wendy G. , Zaider Talia
Published: September 2007

Distress reverberates throughout the family during palliative care and bereavement, inviting consideration of a family-centered model of care. Targeting families thought to be “at risk” has merit. The Family Focused Grief Therapy model was tested in a randomized controlled trial of 81 families (353 individuals) and bereavement outcome is reported here for treatment completers compared to controls. There were no significant baseline differences between treatment completers and non-completers. Significant reduction in distress occurred at 13 months post death for the families completing treatment, with further improvements for the 10% of individuals most distressed at baseline. A preventive model of family-centered care applied to those at greatest risk is meritorious and in keeping with the aspirations of Cicely Saunders for improving the quality of hospice care.
Antibodies to elastin peptides in sera of Warmblood horses at different ages
Authors: van BRANTEGEM L. , de COCK H. E. V. , AFFOLTER V. K. , DUCHATEAU L. , GOVAERE J. , FERRARO G. L. , DUCATELLE R.
Published: September 2007

Reasons for performing study: Early diagnosis and monitoring progression of chronic diseases in elastin‐rich tissues, such as chronic progressive lymphoedema in draught horses and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is still a real challenge in the horse. Use of an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect anti‐elastin antibody (AEAb) levels might be useful to assess the status of such diseases. Baseline levels, representing physiological breakdown of elastin in normal horses, are not available at present.

Hypothesis: Levels of AEAb in healthy horses are generally low and follow the same age‐related pattern as found in man. Therefore, elevation of AEAb levels in serum can be used to evaluate pathological elastin breakdown in elastinrich tissues.

Methods: Sera of 84 clinically healthy Warmblood horses were evaluated for the presence of AEAbs by means of a modified version of an ELISA technique used in man. The horses were divided in 5 age groups: A) <4 months; B) 4–23 months; C) 2–3 years; D) 4–10 years; and E) >11 years.

Results: Antibodies to elastin were found in all equine serum samples tested. Their levels were lowest in Group A, low in Groups B and E and highest in animals age 2–10 years.

Conclusions: Measuring AEAbs in serum of horses by an ELISA technique proved to be possible and levels were stable during well‐defined life stages.

Potential relevance: Changes in AEAb levels are expected to be useful for early diagnosis and for monitoring progression of diseases that affect elastin‐rich tissues, such as chronic progressive lymphoedema and COPD.
Concurrent atypical myopathy and equine dysautonomia in two horses
Authors: VERCAUTEREN G. , van der HEYDEN S. , LEFÈRE L. , CHIERS K. , LAEVENS H. , DUCATELLE R.
Published: September 2007

This report concerns 2 horses that suffered typical clinical signs of atypical myopathy (AM) and equine grass sickness (EGS) concurrently. Clinical details and pathological lesions of the cases are described. EGS and AM are relatively rare diseases and the concurrency of the diseases in the same animals is therefore considered unlikely to be a coincidence. However, it is not suggested that the evidence shows a common aetiology but rather the existence of common predisposing causes.
Bio-inspired syntheses of ZnO-protein composites
Authors: Pitta Bauermann Luciana , Bill Joachim , Aldinger Fritz
Published: September 2007

The influence of five different proteins on the crystallization of ZnO was investigated. The aim was to create bio-inspired artificially-synthesized materials by applying the knowledge acquired about naturally occurring inorganic/bio-organic composites. We found that the lower the isoelectric point of a protein, the more efficient is the adsorption of this protein at ZnO. Thus, electrostatic interaction is the main force responsible for the adsorption between proteins and ZnO. The isoelectric point of the protein does not play any role in the morphology of the ZnO crystallites. Morphology and crystallographic orientation of ZnO crystallites remain practically unaltered when globular proteins are employed during the synthesis. On the other hand, the use of an elongated protein causes a significant increase in the size of the ZnO crystallite. The synthesis under investigation provides a base for the generation of innovative composites with combined properties of ZnO and biological functions of native proteins.
Thermodynamic modeling of the CoO–SiO2and CoO–FeO–Fe2O3–SiO2systems
Authors: Jung In-Ho , Decterov Sergei A. , Pelton Arthur D.
Published: September 2007

A complete critical evaluation and thermodynamic modeling of the phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties of oxide phases in the CoO – FeO – Fe2O3– SiO2system at 1 bar total pressure are presented. Optimized equations for the thermodynamic properties of all phases were obtained which reproduce all available thermodynamic and phase equilibrium data within the limits of absolute experimental accuracy from 25 °C to above the liquidus temperatures at all compositions and oxygen partial pressures. The database of the model parameters can be used, along with software for Gibbs energy minimization, to calculate any type of phase diagram section. Unexplored phase diagram sections and activities of CoO, FeO and SiO2in this system of industrial importance are predicted from the thermodynamic models with the optimized parameters.
Thermodynamic optimisation of the FeO–Fe2O3–SiO2(Fe–O–Si) system with FactSage
Authors: Jak E. , Hayes P. , Pelton A. , Decterov S.
Published: September 2007

Phase equilibrium and thermodynamic experimental data available in the literature on the FeO – Fe2O3– SiO2(Fe – O – Si) system were critically reviewed and used to obtain a self-consistent set of parameters for thermodynamic models for all oxide phases using the FactSage computer package. The present optimisation covers the range of oxygen partial pressures from equilibrium with pure oxygen to metal saturation and temperatures from 25 °C to above the liquidus. The present thermodynamic optimisation was performed as part of the development of a thermodynamic database for the multi-component system Al – Ca – Fe – Mg – O – Pb – Si – Zn; the thermodynamic parameters for the Fe – O – Si system therefore were chosen to be consistent not only with the experimental data in this ternary system, but also with the data in higher-order systems. The modified quasichemical model was used for the liquid slag phase. Sublattice (based upon the compound-energy formalism) and polynomial models were used for the spinel (magnetite) and monoxide (wustite) solid solutions, respectively. The use of physically reasonable models means that the models can be used to predict thermodynamic properties and phase equilibria in composition and temperature regions where experimental data are not available. From these model parameters, the optimised ternary phase diagram of the FeO – Fe2O3– SiO2(Fe – O – Si) system was back calculated. The database of the model parameters can be used in conjunction with computer software for Gibbs-free-energy minimisation in order to calculate all thermodynamic properties and any type of phase-diagram section in the FeO – Fe2O3– SiO2(Fe – O – Si) system.
Facing an “Emotional Crunch”: State Visits as Political Performances During the Cold War
Authors: Derix Simone
Published: September 2007

This article argues that state visits are highly symbolic political performances by analyzing state visits to Berlin in the 1950s and 1960s. The article concentrates on how state visits blended in the Cold War's culture of suspicion and political avowal. Special emphasis is placed on the role of mass media and on the guests' reactions and behavior. State visits to Berlin illuminate the heavy performative and emotional burden placed on all participants. Being aware of the possibilities for self-presentation offered by state visits, West German officials incorporated state visitors into their symbolic battle for reunification. A visit to Berlin with extensive media coverage was, therefore, of prime importance for the German hosts. Despite their sophisticated visualization strategies, total control of events was impossible. Some visitors did not want to play their allotted role and avoided certain sites in Berlin, refused to be accompanied by journalists or cancelled their trips altogether.
Baumartenvielfalt und Produktionsrisiken: Ein Forschungseinblick und -ausblick | Diversity of tree species and risk: A research insight and outlook
Authors: Knoke Thomas , Hahn Andreas
Published: September 2007

Scientific approaches to analyze silvicultural decisions and their consequences for financial risk are scarce, and yet, considering financial risk and risk correlation offers the opportunity to use adequate approaches from financial theory for the valuation of silvicultural decisions. Based on a classical financial approach, this paper analyzes the silvicultural problem of tree species choice and develops a perspective for silvicultural and forest economic oriented research. It provides the conventional «Faustmann-approach» with financial risk and risk correlation generated by Monte-Carlo simulation. This enables both, the application of the theory of portfolio selection according to Markowitz and the theorem of capital separation according to Tobin to derive the optimal tree species composition, which is principally independent from the degree of risk-aversion if a risk-free investment alternative exists.

While supporting the ecological idea of tree species diversity, this simple financial approach provides an interesting research perspective. In future, the two species example has to be extended to more species, different sites and the integration of ecological effects between tree species when mixed in small units such as groups. Furthermore, possible changes in the risk profile of different tree species should be considered; for example, by means of the «information-gap» decision theory. In conclusion, one can see great potential in combining ecological and financial research to support silvicultural decisions for the Central European forest science.
Estimated Sustainable Cost-Based Prices for Diabetes Medicines
Authors: Barber Melissa J. , Gotham Dzintars , Bygrave Helen , Cepuch Christa
Published: March 2024

Importance

The burden of diabetes is growing worldwide. The costs associated with diabetes put substantial pressure on patients and health budgets, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The prices of diabetes medicines are a key determinant for access, yet little is known about the association between manufacturing costs and current market prices.

Objectives

To estimate the cost of manufacturing insulins, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2Is), and glucagonlike peptide 1 agonists (GLP1As), derive sustainable cost-based prices (CBPs), and compare these with current market prices.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this economic evaluation, the cost of manufacturing insulins, SGLT2Is, and GLP1As was modeled. Active pharmaceutical ingredient cost per unit (weighted least-squares regression model using data from a commercial database of trade shipments, data from January 1, 2016, to March 31, 2023) was combined with costs of formulation and other operating expenses, plus a profit margin with an allowance for tax, to estimate CBPs. Cost-based prices were compared with current prices in 12 countries, collected in January 2023 from public databases. Countries were selected to provide representation of different income levels and geographic regions based on the availability of public databases.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Estimated CBPs; lowest current market prices (2023 US dollars).

Results

In this economic evaluation of manufacturing costs, estimated CBPs for treatment with insulin in a reusable pen device could be as low as $96 (human insulin) or $111 (insulin analogues) per year for a basal-bolus regimen, $61 per year using twice-daily injections of mixed human insulin, and $50 (human insulin) or $72 (insulin analogues) per year for a once-daily basal insulin injection (for type 2 diabetes), including the cost of injection devices and needles. Cost-based prices ranged from $1.30 to $3.45 per month for SGLT2Is (except canagliflozin: $25.00-$46.79) and from $0.75 to $72.49 per month for GLP1As. These CBPs were substantially lower than current prices in the 12 countries surveyed.

Conclusions and Relevance

High prices limit access to newer diabetes medicines in many countries. The findings of this study suggest that robust generic and biosimilar competition could reduce prices to more affordable levels and enable expansion of diabetes treatment globally.
Primary Care Physicians’ Satisfaction With Interoperable Health Information Technology
Authors: Everson Jordan , Hendrix Nathaniel , Phillips Robert L. , Adler-Milstein Julia , Bazemore Andrew , Patel Vaishali
Published: March 2024

Importance

Enabling widespread interoperability—the ability of health information technology systems to exchange information and to use that information without special effort—is a primary focus of public policy on health information technology. More information on clinicians’ experience using that technology can serve as one measure of the impact of that policy.

Objective

To assess primary care physician perspectives on the state of interoperability.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A cross-sectional survey of family medicine physicians in the US was conducted from December 12, 2021, to October 12, 2022. A sample of family medicine physicians who completed the Continuous Certification Questionnaire (CCQ), a required part of the American Board of Family Medicine certification process, which has a 100% response rate, were invited to participate.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Eighteen items on the CCQ assessed experience accessing and using various information from outside organizations, including medications, immunizations, and allergies.

Results

A total of 2088 physicians (1053 women [50%]; age reported categorically as either ≥50 years or <50 years) completed the CCQ interoperability questions in 2022. Of these respondents, 35% practiced in hospital or health system–owned practices, while 27% practiced in independently owned practices. Eleven percent were very satisfied with their ability to electronically access all 10 types of information from outside organizations included on the questionnaire, and a mean of 70% were at least somewhat satisfied. A total of 23% of family medicine physicians reported information from outside organizations was very easy to use, and an additional 65% reported that information was somewhat easy to use. Only 8% reported that information from different electronic health record (EHR) developers’ products was very easy to use compared with 38% who reported information from the same EHR developer’s product was very easy to use.

Conclusions and Relevance

This survey study of family medicine physicians found modest and uneven improvement in physicians’ experience with interoperability. These findings suggest that substantial heterogeneity in satisfaction by information type, source of information, EHR, practice type, ownership, and patient population necessitates diverse policy and strategies to improve interoperability.
Comparative structural and functional analysis of the glycine‐rich regions of Class A and B J‐domain protein cochaperones of Hsp70
Authors: Ciesielski Szymon J. , Schilke Brenda A. , Stolarska Milena , Tonelli Marco , Tomiczek Bartlomiej , Craig Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2024

J‐domain proteins are critical Hsp70 co‐chaperones. A and B types have a poorly understood glycine‐rich region (Grich) adjacent to their N‐terminal J‐domain (Jdom). We analyzed the ability of Jdom/Grich segments of yeast Class B Sis1 and a suppressor variant of Class A, Ydj1, to rescue the inviability of sis1‐∆. In each, we identified a cluster of Grich residues required for rescue. Both contain conserved hydrophobic and acidic residues and are predicted to form helices. While, as expected, the Sis1 segment docks on its J‐domain, that of Ydj1 does not. However, data suggest both interact with Hsp70. We speculate that the Grich–Hsp70 interaction of Classes A and B J‐domain proteins can fine tune the activity of Hsp70, thus being particularly important for the function of Class B.
Ezetimibe inhibits the migration and invasion of triple‐negative breast cancer cells by targeting TGFβ2 and EMT
Authors: Kong Lingkai , He Qinyu , Ma Ding , Shi Weiwei , Xin Qilei , Jiang Chunping , Wu Junhua
Published: March 2024

The important role of cholesterol in tumor metastasis has been widely studied in recent years. Ezetimibe is currently the only selective cholesterol uptake inhibitor on the market. Here, we explored the effect of ezetimibe on breast cancer metastasis by studying its impact on breast cancer cell migration, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Differential gene expression analysis and validation were also carried out to compare ezetimibe‐treated and untreated breast cancer cells. Finally, breast cancer cells overexpressing TGFβ2 were constructed, and the effect of TGFβ2 on the migration and invasion of ezetimibe‐treated breast cancer cells was examined. Our results show that ezetimibe treatment of breast cancer cells inhibited cell migration, invasion, and EMT, and it significantly suppressed the expression of TGFβ2. Overexpression of TGFβ2 reversed the inhibitory effect of ezetimibe on the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Taken together, our results suggest that ezetimibe might be a potential candidate for the treatment of breast cancer metastasis.
Autophagy‐related 5 in acute ischemic stroke: Variation and linkage with neurofunction, and survival
Authors: Chen Fan , Wu Linxia , Zhang Meng , Kan Minchen , Chen Huimin , Wang Xiaohua , Qu Juanjuan
Published: March 2024

Objective

Autophagy‐related 5 (ATG5) facilitates the pathologic process of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) via multiple ways. This study aimed to identify the association of serum ATG5 with clinical outcomes in AIS patients.

Methods

Serum ATG5 from 280 AIS patients were detected at admission, Day (D)1, D3, D7, D30, and D90 after admission by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The median (interquartile range) follow‐up was 21.1 (5.9–43.9) months. Another 50 healthy controls (HCs) were also enrolled for serum ATG5 determination.

Results

ATG5 was elevated (p < 0.001) (vs. HCs), and positively correlated with hyperlipidemia (p = 0.016), and the national institutes of health stroke scale score (p = 0.001) in AIS patients. Interestingly, ATG5 was increased from admission to D1, but gradually decreased until D90 (p < 0.001). Besides, 85 (30.4%) and 195 (69.6%) AIS patients were assessed as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) >2 and mRS ≤2 at D90, respectively. ATG5 at admission, D1, D3, D30, and D90 was elevated in AIS patients with mRS >2 versus those with mRS ≤2 (all p < 0.050). ATG5 at admission, D1, D3, D7, D30, or D90 was elevated in relapsed (vs. non‐relapsed) or died (vs. survived) AIS patients (all p < 0.050). Recurrence‐free survival was shortened in AIS patients with high (≥52.0 ng/mL) ATG5 versus those with low (<52.0 ng/mL) ATG5 at admission, D3, D7, and D30 (all p < 0.050); overall survival was shorter in AIS patients with high (vs. low) ATG5 at D7 and D30 (both p < 0.050).

Interpretation

Serum ATG5 elevates at first, thereafter gradually declines, whose elevation associates with neurological dysfunction, recurrence, and death risk in AIS patients.
Enhancing Reverse Intersystem Crossing of Multiple Resonance Type Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Emitter by Introducing Spatial Perturbation
Authors: Xiong Xin , Li Jia‐Qi , Chen Ting‐Feng , Fan Xiao‐Chun , Cheng Ying‐Chun , Wang Hui , Huang Feng , Wu Hao , Yu Jia , Chen Xian‐Kai , Wang Kai , Zhang Xiao‐Hong
Published: March 2024

For multiple resonance (MR) type thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters, electron cloud distributions of their π‐conjugated planes are crucial for determining their eventual performance. Currently, modulation attempts of MR‐TADF emitters are mainly inside the π‐conjugated planes. Possible out‐of‐plane interactions may also significantly impact the photophysical properties, but the exploration is quite limited. Here, a novel concept of using out‐of‐plane (e.g., π–π and lone pair‐π) interactions to introduce spatial perturbation (SPPT) to improve TADF performance is proposed. Two newly developed MR‐TADF emitters, namely, o‐BNPO and BNPO, which both consist of a popular MR framework, DtBuCzB, and diphenylphosphine oxide (DPPO), are compared in depth. In particular, for o‐BNPO, evident π–π interaction is observed between one side of the DtBuCzB π‐conjugated plane and a phenyl ring from DPPO, and lone pair‐π interaction with the oxygen atom from DPPO is noticed on the other side, resulting in significantly accelerated reverse intersystem crossing and better TADF without sacrificing narrowband emission features. Ultimately, in organic light‐emitting diodes with sensitizer‐free emitting layers, both emitters achieve similar narrowband emissions, while the o‐BNPO‐based device demonstrates a much higher external quantum efficiency of 36% and milder efficiency roll‐off.
3D Bioprinting of Multicellular Stem Cell‐Derived Constructs to Model Pancreatic Cell Differentiation
Authors: Edri Shlomit , Newman Frisch Abigail , Safina Dina , Machour Majd , Zavin Janette , Landsman Limor , Pierreux Christophe E. , Spagnoli Francesca M. , Levenberg Shulamit
Published: March 2024

In vitro models of the pancreas can aid in developing therapies for pancreatic diseases. Nonetheless, most pancreatic tissue engineering is limited to insulin‐secreting β‐cells or pancreatic adenocarcinoma models. Combining all essential tissue components, including exocrine, endocrine, and blood vasculature, is crucial to recapitulate native tissue organization. In this study, extrusion‐based 3D bioprinting to create pancreatic tissue constructs containing both endocrine and exocrine compartments is exploited. Mouse pluripotent stem cell‐derived pancreatic progenitors, pancreatic endothelial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells are bioprinted. During postprinting cultivation, the cells differentiated into exocrine and endocrine lineages, resulting in vascularized pancreatic tissue‐like constructs with multiple cell types. However, the bioprinted constructs contracted significantly postprinting, hindering control of cell positioning and shape preservation. Therefore, 2 strategies to reduce the contraction and deformation of the bioprinted constructs are developed. These bioprinting techniques and biomaterial combinations allow us to investigate the influence of construct design and cellular composition on pancreatic cell fate. The results reveal that increased construct stiffness and endothelial component presence significantly promoted endocrine while suppressing exocrine differentiation. Overall, a novel strategy for pancreatic tissue engineering that advances and holds promise for pancreas disease and development modeling, as well as pharmaceutical testing is demonstrated.
A Flexibly Function‐Oriented Assembly Mechanical Metamaterial
Authors: Yue Chengbin , Zhao Wei , Li Fengfeng , Li Bingxun , Liu Liwu , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong
Published: March 2024

Based on the snap‐through instability, the pursuit for mechanical metamaterials with flexible functional applications and the ability to combine with information has been the Holy Grail for structural scientists. Here, the function/application‐oriented bistable unit motifs (UMs) are developed by an elaborately architectural design inspired by the hind leg of the frog in jumping, and a corresponding assembled strategy is proposed. Three functional applications derived from their progressive evolutions. The first is the construction of on‐demand assemblable mechanical curves, including multi‐stage vibration isolation, recoverable energy absorption, and energy dissipation along with integrated vibration isolation and energy dissipation characteristics. The second is the development of mechanic and temperature double pattern encryption strategy using bistability and shape memory programmability, resulting in 4n encryption and decryption modes for n‐bit encryption devices. Finally, five non‐volatile basic mechanical logic gates and a universal combinatorial half‐adder are built, affording guidance to unconventional computing devices with logic functions.
Anion‐Dominated Conventional‐Concentrations Electrolyte to Improve Low‐Temperature Performance of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Nan , Feng Mai , Li Chengjie , Shang Yanxin , Ma Yue , Zhang Jinxiang , Li Yifan , Chen Guoshuai , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: March 2024

Low temperatures (< −20 °C) significantly diminish lithium‐ion battery performance due to freezing issues within commercial electrolytes and the high energy barrier for Li+ desolvation at the interface. Although high‐concentration electrolytes and localized high‐concentration electrolytes enhance Li+ desolvation kinetics featuring anion‐participated solvation structures, their high viscosity and propensity for Li salt precipitation render them unsuitable for low‐temperature environments. This study introduces an anion‐dominated conventional‐concentrations electrolyte (ACCE) created by incorporating Lithium difluorophosphate(LiPO2F2)into a 1 M Lithium bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)azanide(LiTFSI) Dimethyl carbonate(DMC)/Fluoroethylene carbonate(FEC)/Methyl acetate(MA) electrolyte solution. LiPO2F2, characterized by its poor solubility and strong binding with Li+, demonstrates a pronounced tendency to integrate into the primary solvation sheath of Li+. Moreover, the synergy between LiTFSI and LiPO2F2 establishes a dual anion configuration, unveiling a dual anion‐driven mechanism. This mechanism significantly diminishes the interaction between Li+ and solvent molecules, resulting in reduced desolvation energy under low temperatures. The ACCE exhibits high ionic conductivity of 1.3 mS cm−1 at −50 °C, enabling stable cycling of Li/NCM811 cells at −50 °C, and further allows 0.75 Ah graphite(Gr)/LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2(NCM811) batteries dischargeable at −40 °C. This study presents a practical application potential for poorly soluble lithium salts and provides a new avenue for designing electrolytes suitable for low‐temperature applications.
Enhancing Infected Wound Healing Through Scavenging Reactive Oxygen Species Using Synergetic Composites of Sub‐Nanoscale TiO2 with DNA
Authors: Xu Rongchen , Fan Yiping , Gu Junting , Cao Wei , Deng Ruotong , Rana Zohaib , Lu Xiaotong , Xu Changzhen , Xiang Guolei , Li Hongbo , Wang Xun
Published: March 2024

Oxidative stress (OS) resulting from excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) is the initial pathogenesis of many diseases, thus various pharmaceutical materials are explored to scavenge ROS. However, the medical applications of most ROS‐scavenging materials are limited due to side effects and low bio‐stability. DNA has emerged as a promising ROS‐scavenging material with excellent biosafety and programmability, but the efficiency needs to be improved by developing new fabrication methods. Here, a sub‐nanoscale TiO2 composite modified with DNA with excellent biostability, biocompatibility, and enhanced ROS‐scavenging efficiency for medical applications is presented. The sub‐nanoscale TiO2‐DNA (SNTD) composite exhibits higher scavenging capacities for multiple ROS including ·OH, H2O2, and O2•−. Additionally, it can regulate macrophages from pro‐inflammatory to anti‐inflammatory phenotype. In vivo experiments show that the nanocomposites reduce ROS concentration, decrease inflammatory cell infiltration, accelerate re‐epithelization, and promote collagen regeneration, thereby enhancing the healing of infected skin wounds.
1D Monoclinic IrxRu1‐xO2 Solid Solution with Ru‐Enhanced Electrocatalytic Activity for Acidic Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Qin Keyang , Yu Hao , Zhu Wenxiang , Zhou Yunjie , Guo Zhiyong , Shao Qi , Wu Yangbo , Wang Xuepeng , Li Youyong , Ji Yujin , Liao Fan , Liu Yang , Kang Zhenhui , Shao Mingwang
Published: March 2024

The rutile phase IrO2, as a promising catalyst for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), still falls short of satisfactory activity. Here, a novel 1D monoclinic phase iridium‐ruthenium oxide solid solution (m‐IrxRu1‐xO2) is reported. For m‐IrxRu1‐xO2 with different metal proportions, the optimal m‐Ir0.91Ru0.09O2‐δ catalyst exhibits excellent OER activity under acidic conditions with an overpotential of 180 mV at 10 mA cm−2. As an anode catalyst in a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer, m‐Ir0.91Ru0.09O2‐δ with a low catalyst loading (0.1 mg cm−2) can operate ≈256 h at 1.8 V with a high current density over 900 mA cm−2 at room temperature. Such a satisfied stability may have originated from the specific morphology and crystal structure, which is confirmed by the transient potential scanning test. Density functional theory calculations show that the Ru in the m‐IrxRu1‐xO2 facilitates decreasing the OER overpotentials due to the electron transfer from Ru to Ir.
Coordination of Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Molecules for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Chen Bo , Liu He , Yang Jonghee , Ahmadi Mahshid , Chen Qi , Yin Ni , Zhang Shitong , Xiao Meiqin , Zhang Haoyue , Xu Long , Chen Ping
Published: March 2024

The bandgap and operation stability of metal halide perovskites (MHPs) based light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have been compromised by the substantial surface defect densities in the matrix. Today's defect passivation strategies rely on coordination actions of small‐molecular and/or polymeric ligands, which effectively enhance the optical properties of materials. However, the non‐trivial insulating characteristics of the molecules concurrently sacrifice the operation stability and external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the PeLEDs by augmenting the charge injection barrier at the interface. Herein, a coordinative, charge‐polarized organic semiconductor exhibiting thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF), namely 9,9‐dimethyl‐10‐(4‐(phenyl sulfonyl)phenyl)‐9,10‐dihydroacridine (SO‐DMAc) is coordinated, into the MHPs matrix for deep‐red PeLEDs. Owing to the distinctive charge transfer (CT) between the molecule and MHPs with exclusive coordination at the MHP's bottom, SO‐DMAc serves as a molecular bridge that significantly augments the hole injection into the PeLEDs. Encouraged by these improvements, efficient and stable deep red PeLEDs offering EQE of 21.8% and respective half lifetimes (T50) of luminance and EQE exceeding 6 and 35 h are demonstrated. It is revealed that the molecular coordination to the MHP surface is pivotal to manifesting the interfacial CT process for favorable energy level tuning.
Constructing Linear‐Oriented Pre‐Vascularized Human Spinal Cord Tissues for Spinal Cord Injury Repair
Authors: Fan Caixia , Cai Hui , Zhang Lulu , Wu Xianming , Yan Junyan , Jin Lifang , Hu Baowei , He Jiaxiong , Chen Yanyan , Zhao Yannan , Dai Jianwu
Published: March 2024

Repairing spinal cord injury (SCI) is a global medical challenge lacking effective clinical treatment. Developing human‐engineered spinal cord tissues that can replenish lost cells and restore a regenerative microenvironment offers promising potential for SCI therapy. However, creating vascularized human spinal cord‐like tissues (VSCT) that mimic the diverse cell types and longitudinal parallel structural features of spinal cord tissues remains a significant hurdle. In the present study, VSCTs are engineered using embryonic human spinal cord‐derived neural and endothelial cells on linear‐ordered collagen scaffolds (LOCS). Studies have shown that astrocytes and endothelial cells align along the scaffolds in VSCT, supporting axon extension from various human neurons myelinated by oligodendrocytes. After transplantation into SCI rats, VSCT survives at the injury sites and promotes endogenous neural regeneration and vascularization, ultimately reducing scarring and enhancing behavioral functional recovery. It suggests that pre‐vascularization of engineered spinal cord tissues is beneficial for SCI treatment and highlights the important role of exogenous endothelial cells in tissue engineering.
Biofabrication Strategies for Oral Soft Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Rahimnejad Maedeh , Makkar Hardik , Dal‐Fabbro Renan , Malda Jos , Sriram Gopu , Bottino Marco C.
Published: March 2024

Gingival recession, a prevalent condition affecting the gum tissues, is characterized by the exposure of tooth root surfaces due to the displacement of the gingival margin. This review explores conventional treatments, highlighting their limitations and the quest for innovative alternatives. Importantly, it emphasizes the critical considerations in gingival tissue engineering leveraging on cells, biomaterials, and signaling factors. Successful tissue‐engineered gingival constructs hinge on strategic choices such as cell sources, scaffold design, mechanical properties, and growth factor delivery. Unveiling advancements in recent biofabrication technologies like 3D bioprinting, electrospinning, and microfluidic organ‐on‐chip systems, this review elucidates their precise control over cell arrangement, biomaterials, and signaling cues. These technologies empower the recapitulation of microphysiological features, enabling the development of gingival constructs that closely emulate the anatomical, physiological, and functional characteristics of native gingival tissues. The review explores diverse engineering strategies aiming at the biofabrication of realistic tissue‐engineered gingival grafts. Further, the parallels between the skin and gingival tissues are highlighted, exploring the potential transfer of biofabrication approaches from skin tissue regeneration to gingival tissue engineering. To conclude, the exploration of innovative biofabrication technologies for gingival tissues and inspiration drawn from skin tissue engineering look forward to a transformative era in regenerative dentistry with improved clinical outcomes.
External Trigger Free Charge Switchable Cationic Ligands in the Design of Safe and Effective Universal Heparin Antidote
Authors: La Chanel C. , Smith Stephanie A. , Kalathottukaren Manu Thomas , Haynes Charles A. , Morrissey James H. , Kizhakkedathu Jayachandran N.
Published: March 2024

Thrombosis, the formation of blood clots within a blood vessel, can lead to severe complications including pulmonary embolism, cardiac arrest, and stroke. The most widely administered class of anticoagulants is heparin‐based anticoagulants such as unfractionated heparin, low‐molecular weight heparins (LMWHs), and fondaparinux. Protamine is the only FDA‐approved heparin antidote. Protamine has limited efficacy neutralizing LMWHs and no reversal activity against fondaparinux. The use of protamine can lead to complications, including excessive bleeding, hypotension, and hypersensitivity, and has narrow therapeutic window. In this work, a new concept in the design of a universal heparin antidote: switchable protonation of cationic ligands, is presented. A library of macromolecular polyanion inhibitors (MPIs) is synthesized and screened to identify molecules that can neutralize all heparins with high selectivity and reduced toxicity. MPIs are developed by assembling cationic binding groups possessing switchable protonation states onto a polymer scaffold. By strategically selecting the identity and modulating the density of cationic binding groups on the polymer scaffold, a superior universal heparin reversal agent is developed with improved heparin‐binding activity and increased hemocompatibility profiles leading to minimal effect on hemostasis. The activity of this heparin antidote is demonstrated using in vitro and in vivo studies.
An Injectable Magnesium‐Based Cement Stimulated with NIR for Drug‐Controlled Release and Osteogenic Potential
Authors: Zhao Yanbin , Li Yangyang , Wang Bin , Yao Junyan , Fan Yue , He Peng , Bai Jing , Wang Cheng , Xue Feng , Chu Chenglin
Published: March 2024

Magnesium phosphate bone cement (MPC) has gained widespread usage in orthopedic implantation due to its fast‐setting and high initial strength benefits. However, the simultaneous attainment of drug‐controlled release and osteogenic potential in MPC remains a significant challenge. Herein, a strategy to create a smart injectable cement system using nanocontainers and chondroitin sulfate is proposed. It employs nanocontainers containing alendronate‐loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles, which are surface‐modified with polypyrrole to control drug release in response to near‐infrared (NIR) stimulation. The alendronate‐incorporated cement (ACMPC) exhibits improved compressive strength (70.6 ± 5.9 MPa), prolonged setting time (913 s), and exceptional injectability (96.5% of injection rate and 242 s of injection time). It also shows the capability to prevent degradation, thus preserving mechanical properties. Under NIR irradiation, the cement shows good antibacterial properties due to the combined impact of hyperthermia, reactive oxygen species, and alendronate. Furthermore, the ACMPC (NIR) group displays good biocompatibility and osteogenesis capabilities, which also lead to an increase in alkaline phosphatase activity, extracellular matrix mineralization, and the upregulation of osteogenic genes. This research has significant implications for developing multifunctional biomaterials and clinical applications.
3D Printing of Double Network Granular Elastomers with Locally Varying Mechanical Properties
Authors: Baur Eva , Tiberghien Benjamin , Amstad Esther
Published: March 2024

Fast advances in the design of soft actuators and robots demand for new soft materials whose mechanical properties can be changed over short length scales. Elastomers can be formulated as highly stretchable or rather stiff materials and hence, are attractive for these applications. They are most frequently cast such that their composition cannot be changed over short length scales. A method that allows to locally change the composition of elastomers on hundreds of micrometer lengths scales is direct ink writing (DIW). Unfortunately, in the absence of rheomodifiers, most elastomer precursors cannot be printed through DIW. Here, 3D printable double network granular elastomers (DNGEs) whose ultimate tensile strain and stiffness can be varied over an unprecedented range are introduced. The 3D printability of these materials is leveraged to produce an elastomer finger containing rigid bones that are surrounded by a soft skin. Similarly, the rheological properties of the microparticle‐based precursors are leveraged to cast elastomer slabs with locally varying stiffnesses that deform and twist in a predefined fashion. These DNGEs are foreseen to open up new avenues in the design of the next generation of smart wearables, strain sensors, prosthesis, soft actuators, and robots.
Degradation Mechanisms of Electrodes Promotes Direct Regeneration of Spent Li‐Ion Batteries: A Review
Authors: Jia Kai , Yang Guorui , He Yujia , Cao Zhenjiang , Gao Juntao , Zhao Hongyang , Piao Zhihong , Wang Junxiong , Abdelkader Amr M. , Liang Zheng , Kumar R. Vasant , Zhou Guangmin , Ding Shujiang , Xi Kai
Published: March 2024

The rapid growth of electric vehicle use is expected to cause a significant environmental problem in the next few years due to the large number of spent lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Recycling spent LIBs will not only alleviate the environmental problems but also address the challenge of limited natural resources shortages. While several hydro‐ and pyrometallurgical processes are developed for recycling different components of spent batteries, direct regeneration presents clear environmental, and economic advantages. The principle of the direct regeneration approach is restoring the electrochemical performance by healing the defective structure of the spent materials. Thus, the development of direct regeneration technology largely depends on the formation mechanism of defects in spent LIBs. This review systematically details the degradation mechanisms and types of defects found in diverse cathode materials, graphite anodes, and current collectors during the battery's lifecycle. Building on this understanding, principles and methodologies for directly rejuvenating materials within spent LIBs are outlined. Also the main challenges and solutions for the large‐scale direct regeneration of spent LIBs are proposed. Furthermore, this review aims to pave the way for the direct regeneration of materials in discarded lithium‐ion batteries by offering a theoretical foundation and practical guidance.
Enhanced Piezoelectricity of MAPbI3 by the Introduction of MXene and Its Utilization in Boosting High‐Performance Photodetectors
Authors: Han Gaosi , Li Xiao‐Fen , Berbille Andy , Zhang Yueming , Luo Xiongxin , Liu Lindong , Li Longyi , Wang Zhong Lin , Zhu Laipan
Published: March 2024

Recently, perovskite photodetectors (PDs) are risen to prominence due to substantial research interest. Beyond merely tweaking the composition of materials, a cutting‐edge advancement lies in leveraging the innate piezoelectric polarization properties of perovskites themselves. Here, the investigation shows utilizing Ti3C2Tx, a typical MXene, as an intermediate layer for significantly boosting the piezoelectric property of MAPbI3 thin films. This improvement is primarily attributed to the enhanced polarization of the methylammonium (MA+) groups within MAPbI3, induced by the OH groups present in Ti3C2Tx. A flexible PD based on the MAPbI3/MXene heterostructure is then fabricated. The new device is sensitive to a wide range of wavelengths, displays greatly enhanced performance owing to the piezo‐phototronic coupling. Moreover, the device is endowed with a greatly reduced response time, down to millisecond level, through the pyro‐phototronic effect. The characterization shows applying a −1.2% compressive strain on the PD leads to a remarkable 102% increase in the common photocurrent, and a 76% increase in the pyro‐phototronic current. The present work reveals how the emerging piezo‐phototronic and pyro‐phototronic effects can be employed to design high‐performance flexible perovskite PDs.
Red Carbon Mediated Formation of Cu2O Clusters Dispersed on the Oxocarbon Framework by Fehling's Route and their Use for the Nitrate Electroreduction in Acidic Conditions
Authors: Ba Jingwen , Dong Hongliang , Odziomek Mateusz , Lai Feili , Wang Rui , Han Yandong , Shu Jinfu , Antonietti Markus , Liu Tianxi , Yang Wensheng , Tian Zhihong
Published: March 2024

The oligomers of carbon suboxide, known as red carbon, exhibit a highly conjugated structure and semiconducting properties. Upon mild heat treatment, it transforms into a carbonaceous framework rich in oxygen surface terminations, called oxocarbon. In this study, the abundant oxygen functionalities are harnessed as anchors to create oxocarbon‐supported nanohybrid electrocatalysts. Starting with single atomic Cu (II) strongly coordinated to oxygen atoms on red carbon, the Fehling reaction leads to the formation of Cu2O clusters. Simultaneously, a covalent oxocarbon framework emerges via cross‐linking, providing robust support for Cu2O clusters. Notably, the oxocarbon support effectively stabilizes Cu2O clusters of very small size, ensuring their high durability in acidic conditions and the presence of ammonia. The synthesized material exhibits a superior electrocatalytic activity for nitrate reduction under acidic electrolyte conditions, with a high yield rate of ammonium (NH4+) at 3.31 mmol h−1 mgcat−1 and a Faradaic efficiency of 92.5% at a potential of −0.4 V (vs RHE).
Stabilizing Ni2+ in Hollow Nano MOF/Polymetallic Phosphides Composites for Enhanced Electrochemical Performance in 3D‐Printed Micro‐Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhou Huijie , Gu Shunyu , Lu Yibo , Zhang Guangxun , Li Bing , Dou Fei , Cao Shuai , Li Qian , Sun Yangyang , Shakouri Mohsen , Pang Huan
Published: March 2024

Polymetallic phosphides exhibit favorable conductivities. A reasonable design of nano‐metal–organic frame (MOF) composite morphologies and in situ introduction of polymetallic phosphides into the framework can effectively improve electrolyte penetration and rapid electron transfer. To address existing challenges, Ni, with a strong coordination ability with N, is introduced to partially replace Co in nano‐Co–MOF composite. The hollow nanostructure is stabilized through CoNi bimetallic coordination and low‐temperature controllable polymetallic phosphide generation rate. The Ni, Co, and P atoms, generated during reduction, effectively enhance electron transfer rate within the framework. X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) characterization results further confirm the existence of Ni–N, Ni–Ni, and Co–Co structures in the nanocomposite. The changes in each component during the charge–discharge process of the electrochemical reactions are investigated using in situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Theoretical calculations further confirm that P can effectively improve conductivity. VZNPGC//MXene MSCs, constructed with active materials derived from the hollow nano MOF composites synthesized through the Ni2+ stabilization strategy, demonstrate a specific capacitance of 1184 mF cm−2, along with an energy density of 236.75 µWh cm−2 (power density of 0.14 mW cm−2). This approach introduces a new direction for the synthesis of highly conductive nano‐MOF composites.