bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Finite Element Modeling of Femtosecond Laser Trabeculotomy
Authors: Djotyan Gagik P. , Mikula Eric R. , Kranitz Kinga , Nagy Zoltan Z. , Juhasz Tibor
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Femtosecond laser image guided high precision trabeculotomy (FLigHT) is a novel open‐angle glaucoma treatment. The procedure non‐invasively creates aqueous humor (AH) drainage channel from the anterior chamber (AC) to Schlemm's canal (SC) through the trabecular meshwork (TM) to decrease intraocular pressure (IOP). The purpose of this study was to develop a 3D finite element model (FEM) of the FLigHT procedure and to simulate clinical results for different drainage channel cross‐sectional areas.

Methods

First, a FEM model of the average intact glaucomatous eye was constructed. Biometric data published in the literature were used to construct the geometry of the model, including the AC, TM, SC, and collector channels (CCs). The TM and CCs were modeled as porous material, with given permeability, to approximate the outflow resistance found in these tissues in‐vivo. The permeability of the TM and CCs was estimated by comparing iterative FEM simulations with published clinical FLigHT IOP data. For that, the model was modified to simulate the FLigHT treatment of glaucoma by applying a block‐like channel connecting the AC to the SC. Channel size was varied from the clinically utilized size of 200 µm × 500 µm down to 50 µm × 50 µm to investigate the effects of channel size on resultant IOP.

Results

The model revealed that the minimum achievable IOP after FLigHT is the preoperative pressure in SC. It is independent of TM permeability; rather, it depends on CC permeability, AH inflow rate, and episcleral venous pressure. In addition, simulations predicted that a channel size of 100 μm × 100 μm is sufficient to obtain the maximum achievable IOP reduction. Beyond this size, no appreciable increase in IOP reduction was achieved.

Conclusions

The 3D FEM developed in this study provided an adequate simulation of the IOP reduction of the FLigHT treatment, demonstrating its predictive power regarding drainage channel geometry and subsequent IOP reduction. The results indicate that the model has the potential to aid the design of clinical FLigHT procedures.
Malnutrition is associated with clinical outcomes in mechanically ventilated patients with pneumonia and other lung manifestations: A retrospective cohort
Authors: Silva‐García Joseline , García‐Grimaldo Alan , Rodríguez‐Moguel Nadia Carolina , Gómez‐Rodriguez Ana Lucia , Rios‐Ayala Martin Armando , Hernández‐Cardenas Carmen Margarita , Cadeza‐Aguilar Josue Daniel , Osuna‐Padilla Ivan Armando
Published: January 2025

Background

Malnutrition is a highly prevalent condition in patients who are critically ill that has been previously associated with adverse clinical outcomes. The aims of this study are to describe the prevalence of malnutrition using Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria and analyze the associations with clinical outcomes using original criteria or the presence of one phenotypic criterion with inflammation measured by C‐reactive protein (CRP) in patients with pneumonia and other lung manifestations who are mechanically ventilated.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients who are critically ill. Malnutrition was classified using the original GLIM criteria (reduced muscle mass and the assumption of present inflammation because of critical illness) and one phenotypic criterion with severe inflammation (CRP >5 mg/dl). Associations between both groups with clinical outcomes (duration of invasive mechanical ventilation [IMV], length of stay [LOS] on ICU, hospital LOS, ICU mortality, and prolonged ICU LOS) were assessed.

Results

Two hundred and thirty‐four patients who were critically ill were included. The prevalence of malnutrition in the established methods GLIM and phenotypic criterion with severe inflammation was 38.4% and 27.7%, respectively. Patients who survived and were diagnosed with malnutrition using inflammation criterion at baseline had longer hospital LOS (31 vs 25 days, P = 0.04). After adjusting for age, clinical diagnosis at admission, and SOFA and APACHE II scores, phenotypic criterion with severe inflammation was associated with duration of IMV (β: 5.7; 95% confidence interval: 0.7–10.7; P = 0.02) and ICU LOS (β: 6.1; 95% CI: 0.8–11.5; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Malnutrition considering a phenotypic criterion and CRP >5 mg/dl upon ICU admission was associated with duration of IMV and ICU LOS.
The impact of a low‐carbohydrate (vs. low‐fat) diet on fat mass loss in African American women is modulated by insulin sensitivity
Authors: Martins Catia , Bryan David R. , Sweatt S. Katherine , Garvey W. Timothy , Fontaine Kevin R. , Dutton Gareth R. , Gower Barbara A.
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the independent and interactive effects of insulin sensitivity (SI), the acute insulin response to glucose, and diet on changes in fat mass (FM), resting and total energy expenditure (REE and TEE, respectively), and mechanical efficiency, during weight loss, in African American women with obesity.

Methods

A total of 69 women were randomized to low‐fat (55% carbohydrate [CHO], 20% fat) or low‐CHO (20% CHO, 55% fat) hypocaloric diets for 10 weeks, followed by a 4‐week weight‐stabilization period (controlled feeding). SI and acute insulin response to glucose were measured at baseline with an intravenous glucose tolerance test; body composition was measured with bioimpedance analysis at baseline and week 10; and REE, TEE, and mechanical efficiency were measured with indirect calorimetry, doubly labeled water, and a submaximal bike test, respectively, at baseline and week 14.

Results

Within the group with low SI, those on the low‐CHO diet lost more weight (mean [SE], −6.6 [1.0] vs. −4.1 [1.4] kg; p = 0.076) and FM (−4.9 [0.9] vs. −2.1 [1.0] kg; p = 0.04) and experienced a lower reduction in REE (−48 [30] vs. −145 [30] kcal/day; p = 0.035) and TEE (mean [SE] 67 [56] vs. −230 [125] kcal/day; p = 0.009) compared with those on the low‐fat diet.

Conclusions

A low‐CHO diet leads to a greater FM loss in African American women with obesity and low SI, likely by minimizing the reduction in EE that follows weight loss.
Experiences From the Bottom‐Up Development of an Object‐Oriented CFD Solver with Prospective Hybrid Turbulence Model Applications
Authors: Marinković Pavle , Medina Juan A. , Schöps Mark Simon , Klein Marten , Schmidt Heiko
Published: January 2025

In this work, we discuss recent experiences related to the development and enhancement of a hybrid stochastic computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solver, the C++ version of the Implicit/Explicit (IMEX) time‐advancement algorithm used in the one‐dimensional turbulence‐based (ODT) large eddy simulation (LES) model, abbreviated as ODTLES. After being ported from Fortran 90, the current capabilities of the C++ code are restricted to the reproducibility of turbulent channel flow simulations with respect to the former Fortran code version that was able to achieve reasonable agreement with available reference direct numerical simulation (DNS) for low to moderate Reynolds number turbulent channel flows. This is far from satisfactory so that current efforts are centered on improving the solver code structure through comprehensive refactoring, robust unit testing, and strict adherence to code style guides, following the principles of Clean Code. We focus the discussion on a methodology to balance unit, regression, and integration testing, here for the LES component of the code. The objective is to frame a starting point that is relevant also for other CFD codes, irrespective of whether they utilize conventional or novel discretization or flow modeling approaches.
The St. Jude Global Academy: A Multifaceted Education Program to Expand Pediatric Oncology Workforce Capacity
Authors: Moreira Daniel C. , Hashmi Saman K. , Andujar Allyson , Berg Fair , Conger Kristy , Fox Irwin Leeanna , Mikkelsen Margit , Antillón‐Klussmann Federico , Bazzeh Faiha , Cypriano Monica , Gao Yi‐Jin , González‐Ramella Oscar , Rivas Silvia , Lopes Luiz Fernando , Mack Ricardo , Morosini Fabiana , Noun Dolly , Garcia Ximena , Homsi Maysam R. , Puerto‐Torres Maria , Agulnik Asya , Baker Justin N. , Caniza Miguela A. , McNeil Michael J. , Qaddoumi Ibrahim , Chantada Guillermo , Rodríguez‐Galindo Carlos
Published: January 2025

There is currently a global shortage of healthcare professionals equipped to handle the rising burden of childhood cancer. St. Jude Global is an initiative to improve survival rates of children with cancer worldwide while improving access to quality care. One of the overriding goals of St. Jude Global is focused on education: the training of the clinical workforce needed to expand quality care for all children with cancer. Herein, we describe the St. Jude Global Academy (SJGA) and its programs. The three main workstreams of the SJGA are: clinical training programs, courses, and distance learning. St. Jude collaborates with eight institutions in seven low‐ and middle‐income countries to train pediatric subspecialists. Each year, approximately 20 new fellows start at these clinical training programs. To date, 92 specialists have been trained. The SJGA's courses create educational opportunities that provide a structured learning experience in key areas that are relevant to pediatric cancer care. To date, 1081 participants from 372 institutions in 84 countries have successfully completed these educational opportunities. Cure4Kids is the SJGA's distance learning platform. Over 9000 healthcare professionals in 177 countries use Cure4Kids. The platform receives 1400 visits and over 13,000 page views per day. The SJGA's multifaceted approach encompasses various disciplines and skills, providing healthcare professionals from around the world the skills to address the needs of children diagnosed with cancer in their respected institutions. These efforts are essential for building workforce capacity to improve outcomes.
Recent advances in the dispersion and interfacial characteristics of carbon nanotubes within polyamide composites
Authors: Wang Huanhuan , Qu Qi , Wang Jin , Gao Jiming , Yang Jun , He Yan
Published: January 2025

The dispersion and interfacial compatibility of carbon nanotubes, as inorganic nonpolar materials, within the organic polar polyamide matrix are crucial for the performance of composite materials. This article reviews the surface modification of carbon nanotubes, common methods for fabricating carbon nanotube/polyamide composites, and their impact on composites properties. Additionally, it discusses the challenges and opportunities in the field of carbon nanotube/polyamide research.

Highlights

CNTs' van der Waals forces and aspect ratio cause agglomeration, hindering dispersion.

Inorganic CNTs' nonpolar nature weakens affinity and interfacial bonding with polar PA.

Nonpolar CNTs reduce affinity and weaken bonding with polar PA.

The interface enables PA‐CNT interaction, crucial for load transfer in composites.

Surface‐modified CNTs introduce functional groups, enhancing interfacial bonding with PA.
Biomass composite anion exchange membranes based on quaternized chitosan incorporated with imidazole ionic liquid‐functionalized cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Zhou Yi , Huang Zhiliang , Deng Bangjun , Gong Chunli , Liu Hai
Published: January 2025

Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are the core components of fuel cells, playing a dual role in blocking anode/cathode and conducting OH− ions. In order to address the trade‐off between ion conductivity and mechanical property of AEMs, imidazole ionic liquid‐grafted cellulose nanocrystals (IL@CNC) was prepared and used as a novel one‐dimentional nanofiller to modify quaternized chitosan (QCS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) blend polymer matrix to obtain IL@CNC/QCS‐PVA composite membranes. The uniform dispersion of IL@CNC and the strong interaction between nanofillers and polymer matrix significantly increased the tensile strength and toughness. Moreover, with the help of 1D shape of CNC together with the grafted imidazole groups, highly‐effective ion transport channels were formed inside the membrane, and ion exchange capacity was also increased, thereby sharply improving the ionic conductivity of the composite membranes. The membrane containing 4% IL@CNC demonstrated the ionic conductivities of as high as 29.3 and 76.5 mS cm−1 at room temperature and 80°C, respectively, which were 4.0 times and 3.6 times higher than those of the pure membrane under the same condition. The as‐prepared composite membranes containing the biopolymer and functionalized natural nanocellulose are expected to be used as a novel type of biomass‐based AEMs.

Highlights

Imidazole IL grafted CNC was used as a novel 1D nanofiller to modify QCS‐PVA.

The membrane had high ionic conductivity and mechanical properties.

Providing a new way to design biomass‐based AEMs with high performance.
Temporal‐Resolved Diagnosis for AC Gas‐Liquid Discharge Based on Photomultiplier Tube: A Perspective Way to Improve Metal Detection Performance
Authors: Zhou Xiong‐Feng , Bai Yang , Liu Kun
Published: January 2025

AC gas‐liquid discharge is attractive for on‐site metal detection. Intensified charge‐coupled device‐based temporal‐resolved diagnosis improves detection performance for a pulsed system but fails for AC discharge due to the temporal randomness and absent trigger signal of discharge. Herein, a trigger‐free response system based on a high‐speed photomultiplier tube is proposed to perform temporal‐resolved diagnosis for AC gas‐liquid discharge. It improves the detection limits for Cu, Mg, Na, and K by more than an order of magnitude. This work provides a perspective on diagnostic techniques that enhance trace metal detection performance based on AC gas‐liquid discharge.
Reactive Species Production and Colon Cancer Cytotoxicity of an Electrosurgical Cold Argon Plasma Device
Authors: Martinet Alice , Miebach Lea , Heisterberg Leander , Neugebauer Alexander , Enderle Markus D. , Bekeschus Sander
Published: January 2025

In a narrow definition, plasma medicine is the application of body‐temperature cold plasma devices for medical purposes. If considering the more general application of plasma devices in medicine, independent of the operating temperature, electrosurgical argon plasma devices have been successfully applied in medicine for decades for cutting and coagulating tissue. Accordingly, such devices have successfully received regulatory approval as certified medical devices. In this work, we assessed the suitability of an electrosurgical argon plasma device with a novel set of parameters allowing operation at lower temperatures. We studied the device's ability to generate reactive species and measured their penetration into hydrogels and human HT29 colon cancer cell toxicity to motivate future studies of this device's operation mode in gastrointestinal oncology.
Microscopic Model Extension for Lattice Thermal Expansion up to Phase‐Transition Temperature
Authors: Gesing Thorsten M. , Robben Lars , Murshed Mohammad Mangir
Published: January 2025

An extension of the Debye–Einstein–anharmonicity (DEA) model has been addressed to describe the lattice thermal expansion up to a temperature‐dependent phase transition. By using an intrinsic anharmonicity (A) term in the DEA model only, it is not possible to describe the continuous changes of the lattice thermal expansion leading to anomalies originating from second‐order phase transitions. Therefore, an extended formalism is empirically developed to model these anomalies of the lattice thermal expansion based on temperature‐dependent X‐ray powder diffraction data. Inspired by Landau's theory of second‐order phase transitions, a gliding function (G) that considers the excess energy above the DEA terms, necessary to drive the phase transition, is introduced. The G‐function has been considered as an additive constituent of the DEA model, leading to the DEA + G model that describes the temperature‐dependent internal energy of the unit cell implemented in the first‐order Mie‐Grüneisen zero pressure equation of state (MG‐EoS). The extended approach allows to describe the soft‐mode‐driven anharmonic internal energy contribution and to determine the critical temperature of both nuclear and magnetic phase transitions.
Financial Development's Role in Reducing the Ecological Footprint of Energy Consumption in BRICS
Authors: Yasin Iftikhar , Amin Saqib , Mehmood Waqas
Published: January 2025

This study examines the relationship between energy consumption and environmental degradation in BRICS countries from 1995 to 2022, focusing on how financial development moderates this relationship. The key objective is to explore the potential of financial development to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts of energy consumption, mainly through promoting cleaner energy alternatives and improving energy efficiency. To achieve this, the study employs Driscoll‐–Kraay fixed‐effects and bootstrap panel quantile regression methods to account for cross‐sectional dependence and capture heterogeneous effects across different quantiles of energy consumption. The findings indicate that energy consumption significantly exacerbates environmental degradation, but financial development can reduce these adverse effects, especially at lower energy consumption levels. However, at higher levels of energy use, the mitigating impact of financial development diminishes. These results contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action), providing valuable insights for policymakers. Based on these findings, the study recommends a dual approach that emphasizes strengthening financial systems while promoting energy efficiency and adopting renewable energy to foster a more sustainable future. The findings also highlight the need for international cooperation and knowledge sharing to improve environmental outcomes across BRICS countries.
Comprehensive Review of Dihydro‐2H‐pyrrol‐2‐one Derivatives
Authors: Siddiqui Benjamin , Yadav Chandra Shekhar , Faiyyaz Mohd , Akil Mohd , Hassan Firoj , Ahmad Aneez , Ahmad Naseem , Khan Abdul Rahman , Azad Iqbal
Published: January 2025

Heterocyclic chemistry has emerged as a significant field with diverse applications in recent scenarios. Nitrogen‐containing heterocyclic compounds have garnered significant attention due to their unique physiological characteristics and extensive medicinal utility. Therefore, the dihydro‐2H‐pyrrol‐2‐one scaffold is a key skeleton for medicinal and pharmaceutical research due to its high bioavailability and wider synthetic applications. This study found that 1,5‐dihydro‐2H‐pyrrol‐2‐one scaffolds can be used in many ways. Thus, these scaffolds have been the subject of a lot of research in recent years, but preparation of the main core is harder because of their structure. This study covers the synthetic methods used over the past 15 years to synthesize substituted dihydro‐2H‐pyrrol‐2‐one derivatives through a variety of reaction approaches by utilizing hybrid catalyzing systems, including photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, alkaline catalysts, acid catalysts, organocatalysts, ionic liquid catalysts, nanocatalysts, heterogeneous or homogeneous transitional‐metal catalysis (including Cu, Pd, Ni, Ru, Co, Fe, Si, Pt, Zn, etc.), as well as the mechanism. This review will encourage the researchers to exploit wider catalytic applications for the synthesis of target compounds.
Ecofriendly Preparation of Stable Lithium Iron Phosphate Cathodes for Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Kumar Vaddi Venkata Narasimha Phani , Shanmugam Kasi , Sivaraj Arumaikani , Sarangan Thandalam Parthasarathy , Mohan Thyagarajan , Prakash Raju
Published: January 2025

Currently, the cells using Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) cathode have attracted more attention due to their temperature stability, durability, safety, and fast‐charging capability for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). The nano‐sized LFP cathodes have been well‐studied for various applications of LIBs, in particular, electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Herein, we used the open‐pore micron‐sized LFP material as a cathode using an eco‐friendly electrode fabrication process for LIBs. The electrodes have been fabricated using LFP, carbon black, and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose/styrene butadiene rubber binder with various active materials contents (80–85 wt%; LFP80/LFP83/LFP85). These electrodes have been characterized with FTIR, Raman, Peel strength, Swelling, XPS, CV, and EIS analyses. The obtained swelling (18.42%) and peel strength (2.57 N/25  mm) values are on par with the electrodes prepared by the conventional method using a non‐aqueous PVDF binder. The existence of Fe2+ in the electrode is confirmed by high‐resolution XPS spectra. From EIS, the obtained solution resistance and charge transfer resistance values of the electrodes are comparable to the standard LFP electrode prepared using PVDF binder. LFP80 exhibited an initial discharge capacity of 130.9 mAh g−1 at 1C‐rate with a capacity retention of > 90% after 300 cycles. The electrode shows excellent rate capability, even at 4C‐rate, it delivered a capacity of 116.3 mAh g−1. In addition, the electrode displayed a stable capacity as high as 148.7 and 75.3 mAh g−1 at 1C‐rate at 65 and −10 °C, respectively. Hence, the LFP80 electrode prepared by eco‐friendly processes can very well be used for versatile LIB applications.
In Silico and Therapeutic Efficacy of Glycyrrhizin‐Based Silver Nanoparticles Against Bacteria Related to Periodontitis
Authors: Mahanty Ritu , Dubey Debasmita , Pradhan Deepak , Rai Vineet , Rajwar Tushar Kanti , Saha Ivy , Satpathy Bibhanwita , Halder Jitu , Mishra Ajit , Rout Sudhanshu Ranjan , Dash Priyanka , Kar Biswakanth , Das Chandan , Ghosh Goutam , Rath Goutam
Published: January 2025

Rising antibiotic resistance among periodontal pathogens poses a major challenge to treatment outcomes. This work investigates the possible combinatorial potential of AgNPs synthesized using glycyrrhizin, a natural biosurfactant, to combat biofilm‐forming bacteria isolated from periodontitis patients. In silico findings revealed that glycyrrhizin had a higher binding affinity score of ‐9.102 compared to doxycycline (−3.599) for the gtfB, plays an indispensable function in biofilm integrity. AgNPs were synthesized using glycyrrhizin and optimized utilizing the design of experiments, considering factors such as pH, temperature, incubation time and glycyrrhizin concentration as variables. while The resulting GL‐AgNPs were characterized by different analytical techniques such as FTIR, XRD, DLS, and SEM. The nanoparticles were non‐spherical, uniform and had an average size of 72 nm, while zeta potentials ranged from −28 mV to − 42 mV. Antimicrobial findings suggested that GL‐AgNPs exhibited significant antibacterial and anti‐biofilm activity compared to AgNPs prepared using sodium borohydride (p < 0.001). Experimental findings suggested that GL‐AgNPs inhibited biofilm formation by attenuating Gtfase activity.  Further, GL‐AgNPs show effective anti‐inflammatory activity with minimal cytotoxicity. Overall, this study highlights that the inherent antimicrobial and surfactant properties of glycyrrhizin greatly improve the antimicrobial potential of AgNPs, providing a promising approach to combating biofilm‐producing oral pathogens in periodontitis.
Photocatalyzed Carbon─Carbon Bond Formation Between Ethylene Glycol and Electron‐Deficient Olefins
Authors: Schichler Johanna , Madsen Robert
Published: January 2025

Ethylene glycol is produced on a very large industrial scale and is used for the preparation of polyesters and antifreeze formulations. Although the diol is mainly manufactured from fossil‐based resources, new commercial procedures from carbohydrates are currently being introduced, which eventually will make ethylene glycol an important bio‐derived compound in organic chemistry. However, further transformations of the diol for the formation of carbon─carbon bonds have so far received relatively little attention. In the present work, the photocatalyzed coupling between ethylene glycol and electron‐deficient olefins is therefore investigated. The results show that an iridium complex can be employed to mediate the reaction with acrylates, acrylamides, acrylonitriles, and vinyl sulfones to generate a range of chain‐elongated lactones and diols. Substituents are tolerated in the α position of acrylates while a poor outcome is obtained with substituents in the β position of the electron‐deficient olefin. The results illustrate the formation of new carbon─carbon bonds from an abundant alcohol by the use of photocatalytic transformations.
NIR Light‐Triggered Structural Modulation of Self‐Assembled Prion Protein Aggregates
Authors: Jang Jinhyeong , Jo Yonghan , Park Chan Beum
Published: January 2025

The self‐replication of misfolded prion protein (PrP) aggregates is the major pathological event of different prion diseases, affecting mammal brains by cross‐species transmission. Here, the structural modulation of PrP aggregates are reported by activated carbon materials upon near‐infrared (NIR) light irradiation. Activated carbon cobalt (ACC) nanosheets are synthesized using glycerol and metal salts to utilize the charge carriers released under NIR light exposure. According to the microscopy and spectroscopy analysis results, NIR light‐excited ACC nanosheets successfully dissociate the β‐sheet‐rich and plaque‐like PrP aggregates into denatured fragments by modifying their amino acid residues. The in vitro assay results demonstrate that ACC nanosheets possess biocompatibility to neuroblastoma cells and alleviating effect against the neurotoxicity of PrP aggregates. This work suggests the first potential photodynamic platform for the future treatment of prion diseases.
New Insights into the Ion/Electron Transfer Mechanisms of LiMn2O4‐Based Membrane Electrodes at Different Electron Fluxes
Authors: Hu Weitao , Sun Beichen , Zhang Xuefeng , Du Xiao , An Xiaowei , Gao Fengfeng , Guan Guoqing , Abudula Abuliti , Liu Zhong , Li Jun , Hao Xiaogang
Published: January 2025

Electrochemical Li extraction technology is a highly promising approach for Li extraction from salt lakes. To enhance its practical application, it is crucial to elucidate the ion/electron transfer mechanism under diverse process conditions particularly different electron fluxes. Different migration intermediate states demonstrate the distinct ion migration mechanisms inside the LiMn2O4 lattice at different electron fluxes. Furthermore, direct observation of the distribution of Li+ in LiMn2O4‐based membrane at different layered locations using Laser‐induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) reveals that the rate‐limiting step is determined by the variety of electron flux. The desorption rate is limited by electron‐transfer resistance at low electron fluxes whereas the ion‐transfer resistance is the rate‐limiting at high electron fluxes. These novel insights into the ion/electron transfer mechanisms and rate‐limiting steps at different electron fluxes on the molecular and microscopic scales are imperative for the improvement of electroactive ion exchange materials (EIXMs) and practical applications of the electrochemical Li extraction technology.
Copper‐Based Bio‐Coordination Nanoparticle for Enhanced Pyroptosis‐Cuproptosis Cancer Immunotherapy through Redox Modulation and Glycolysis Inhibition
Authors: Cun Ju‐E , He Ziyun , Fan Xi , Pan Qingqing , Luo Kui , He Bin , Pu Yuji
Published: January 2025

Copper‐based nanoparticles have garnered significant interest in cancer therapy due to their ability to induce oxidative stress and cuproptosis in cancer cells. However, their antitumor effectiveness is constrained by the dynamic redox balance and the metabolic shift between oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis. Here, a polydopamine‐coated copper‐α‐ketoglutaric acid (α‐KG) coordination polymer nanoparticle (CKPP) is designed for combined pyroptosis‐cuproptosis cancer immunotherapy by amplifying reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and regulating cellular metabolism. The intracellular redox imbalance is achieved through the synergistic effects of α‐KG‐induced mitochondrial metabolic reprogramming, photothermally enhanced superoxide dismutase‐like activity of polydopamine, and glutathione depletion by copper ions. The multifaceted redox modulation results in a substantial increase in intracellular ROS levels, triggering oxidative stress and subsequent pyroptosis in cancer cells. Furthermore, α‐KG shifts cellular metabolism from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation, thereby enhancing cuproptosis induced by copper ions. The combination of ROS dyshomeostasis and glycolysis inhibition results in a potent enhancement of pyroptosis‐cuproptosis‐mediated cancer therapy. In a murine model of colorectal cancer, CKPP exhibited a remarkable anticancer effect, achieving a tumor inhibition rate of 96.3% and complete tumor eradication in two out of five cases. Overall, this bio‐engineered metal–organic nanocomposite demonstrates significant potential for treating cancer through combined pyroptosis‐cuproptosis cancer immunotherapy.
In Situ Cascade Catalytic Polymerization of Dopamine Based on Pt NPs/CoSAs@NC Nanoenzyme for Constructing Highly Sensitive Photocurrent‐Polarity‐Switching PEC Biosensing Platform
Authors: Wang Huan , Yang Bo , Du Cuicui , Zheng Hejie , Zhang Xiaohua , Chen Jinhua
Published: January 2025

Nanozymes open up new avenues for amplifying signals in photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensing, which are yet limited by the generated small‐molecule signal reporters. Herein, a multifunctional nanoenzyme of Pt NPs/CoSAs@NC consisting of Co single atoms on N‐doped porous carbon decorated with Pt nanoparticles is successfully synthesized for cascade catalytic polymerization of dopamine for constructing a highly sensitive photocurrent‐polarity‐switching PEC biosensing platform. Taking protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) as a target model, Pt NPs/CoSAs@NC nanoenzymes are linked to magnetic microspheres via phosphorylated peptides. Upon dephosphorylation of PTP1B, Pt NPs/CoSAs@NC nanoenzymes with multiple enzyme‐like activities, including peroxidase (POD)‐like, catalase (CAT)‐like, and oxidase (OXD)‐like activities, are released and collected to induce the in situ cascade catalytic polymerization of dopamine on ZnCdS photoelectrode in the presence of H2O2. The generated polymer‐molecule of polydopamine served as efficient signal reporter for simultaneously amplifying signal and switching photocurrent polarity, which not only improved the sensitivity but also enhanced the reliability. This biosensing platform is capable of sensitively quantifying PTP1B with ultralow detection limit (0.04 fM), wide linear range (0.1 fm–0.1 µm), and good applicability in complex biological samples. This work pioneers the utilization of nanozyme‐based cascade catalytic polymerization strategy for improving sensitivity and reliability in biosensing technologies.
Facilitated Self‐Adjusting Mechanism with Mn2+ Additive in Electrolyte for Ammonium‐Ion Hybrid Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhao Zhenyun , Guo Yunna , Chen Dongliang , Wang Xu , Deng Lei , Hou Yang , Zhang Qinghua , Ye Zhizhen , Zhang Liqiang , Lu Jianguo
Published: January 2025

Ammonium‐ion hybrid supercapacitors (AIHSCs) have gained extensive attention due to their high safety and environmental friendliness. Manganese oxides are among the most promising cathode materials; however, the side electrochemical reactions occurring in aqueous electrolytes limit their reversible capacities and energy densities. This work prepares the β‐/γ‐MnO2 electrode and reveals the side electrochemical reactions occurring in the (NH4)2SO4 electrolyte. Besides the widely recognized dissolution of MnO2, the re‐deposition of MnO2 and irreversible insertion of NH4+ exist simultaneously during cycling, resulting in irreversible structural changes of MnO2. A portion of β‐/γ‐MnO2 converts to δ‐MnO2, and a layer of 7Mn(OH)2·2MnSO4·H2O forms on the electrode surface, modifying the ionic accessibility and structural stability of the electrode. The structural changes, along with the competition among the three types of side reactions, cause capacity decay and uprise during cycling. Accordingly, the self‐adjusting mechanism is proposed, and trace Mn2+ is added to the electrolyte to facilitate this mechanism, thereby improving performance. Finally, the AIHSC, featuring the MnO2 cathode and activated carbon anode in the Mn2+‐added (NH4)2SO4 electrolyte, shows 60.2 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 under 0–2 V. The maximum energy and power densities of 60.2 Wh kg−1 and 5000 W kg−1 are achieved.
Cocktail Effect of 4d/5d Band Twisted High‐Entropy Alloys on Carbon Nanotube for Hydrazine Splitting
Authors: Park Chae Eun , Theerthagiri Jayaraman , Maheskumar Velusamy , Kumar Anuj , Jeong Gyoung Hwa , Choi Myong Yong
Published: January 2025

Herein, multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) embedded with RuPdIrPtAu‐high entropy alloys (HEA) via pulsed laser irradiation in liquids are successfully fabricated. The resultant composite synergistically enhances hydrazine oxidation reaction (HzOR)‐boosted water electrolysis. Notably, HEA with ≈2–5 nm size, are uniformly distributed across the surface of the CNTs. An optimized HEA/CNT‐10 demonstrates exceptional performance in oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions (OER and HER), depicted by ultralow overpotentials of 30.7 and 330 mV at 10 mA cm−2, respectively. By replacing OER with HzOR, HEA/CNT‐10 needs a lower potential of 0.1 V to accomplish 10 mA cm−2, as compared to OER (1.56 V vs. RHE). Moreover, the hydrazine splitting electrolyzer desirable a small voltage of 0.242 V to attain 10 mA cm−2, while maintaining exceptional stability. Experimental and DFT studies validate the cocktail effects and role of multiple metal‐sites in HEA/CNT‐10, which significantly enhance the efficiency of parallel HER||HzOR processes, highlighting its potential in energy‐efficient, hydrogen production. In situ Raman probe indicated the configuration of an acidic environment, monitoring of H3O+, during HER, despite the basic conditions. This is attributed to the dominance of the Heyrovsky step, facilitated by the high catalytic activity of the HEA, coupled with protonation of the CNT surface.
Efficient Functional Compensation Layer Integrated with HTL for Improved Stability and Performance in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Du Xiangrui , Li Fuqiang , Li Ying , Xia Haicheng , Yang Eunhye , Ahn Yoomi , Liu Fengwu , Chen Yongzan , Lee Bo Ram , Park Sung Heum
Published: January 2025

Improving the interface characteristics between the hole‐transport layer (HTL) and perovskite absorber layer is crucial for achieving maximum efficiency in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). This paper presents an effective functional compensation layer (FCL) composed of benzothiophene derivatives, particularly 5‐(trifluoromethyl)‐1‐benzothiophene‐2‐carboxylic acid (TFMBTA); this layer is introduced between the MeO‐2PACz HTL and perovskite absorber layer to improve the interfacial characteristics between them. This FCL improves charge transfer, hole extraction, and perovskite deposition by improving the surface morphology of the HTL and optimizing the energy level alignment. The functional groups of TFMBTA effectively passivate perovskite defects. As a result, the introduction of the TFMBTA FCL markedly reduces non‐radiative recombination at the interface between the HTL and perovskite layer. The MeO‐2PACz‐based PSCs with the FCL demonstrated an impressive peak power conversion efficiency of 23.85%, accompanied by substantially enhanced open‐circuit voltage (Voc), fill factor (FF), and long‐term stability. Similarly, introducing the TFMBTA FCL between the PEDOT:PSS HTL and the perovskite layer enhanced both the stability and efficiency of PSCs, demonstrating the universality of FCLs across different types of HTLs.
Electrostatic Harmonization for Superior Charge Extraction at Interface for Stable High‐Efficiency FAPbI3 Quantum Dots Solar Cells
Authors: Que Meidan , He Shenghui , Li Yutian , Xu Yuan , Li Bo , Wei Jian , Gao Lili , Huang Wei , Liu Shengzhong
Published: January 2025

Organic–inorganic formamidinium lead triiodide (FAPbI3) hybrid perovskite quantum dots (QDs) have garnered considerable attention in the photovoltaic field due to their narrow bandgap, exceptional environmental stability, and prolonged carrier lifetime. Unfortunately, their insulating ligands and surface vacancy defects pose significant obstacles to efficient charge transfer across device interfaces. In this work, an electrostatic harmonization strategy at the interface using a donor‐acceptor dipole molecular attachment to achieve enhanced charge separation capabilities on the QD surface is ventured. On the basis of theoretical study and experimental evaluation, it has gained a comprehensive understanding of dipole‐induced electronic restructuring at the quantum dot interfaces. It reveals that 3‐fluoro‐4‐iodopyridine as a dipole source with appropriate energy levels and a high dipole moment effectively fills surface iodine vacancies (VI‐), leading to rapid separation of photoexcited charge carriers. Particularly enhanced hole mobility and hydrophobicity are achieved through strong electronegative effects of fluorine and iodine. Consequently, the FAPbI3 QD solar cells achieve a power conversion efficiency as high as 14.11% with exceptional long‐term stability in ambient. These perceptions provide effective interface engineering means for the hybrid perovskite QDs to advance their potential in high‐performance optoelectronic applications.
Vacancy and Low‐Energy 3p‐Orbital Endow Na4Fe3(PO4)2(P2O7) Cathode with Superior Sodium Storage Kinetics
Authors: Jiang Ning , Yang Cheng , Wang Yichao , Wang Xinyu , Sun Shouyu , Liu Yu
Published: January 2025

Iron‐based phosphate Na4Fe3(PO4)2(P2O7) (NFPP) has been regarded as the most promising cathode for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) thanks to its cost‐effectiveness and eco‐friendliness. However, it is in a predicament from the intrinsic low ionic/electronic conductivity, becoming a great challenge for its practical application. Herein, the significant roles of the low‐energy 3p‐orbital and transition metal vacancies are emphasized in facilitating charge rearrangement and reconstructing ion‐diffusion channels, from the perspectives of crystallography and electron interaction for the first time, and the modification mechanism is fully explored by various characterizations and theoretical calculations. As proof of this concept, the designed Na4Fe2.85Al0.1(PO4)2(P2O7) (NF2.85A0.1PP) delivers prominent electrochemical performance, achieving high energy density (≈350 Wh kg⁻¹), superior kinetics (62 mAh g⁻¹ at 10 A g⁻¹), excellent power density (23 kW kg⁻¹, 143 Wh kg⁻¹), and extraordinary cycling stability (with negligible attenuation after 10 000 cycles). This work provides a brand‐new perspective for designing ultra‐endurable high‐rate polyanion cathodes.
Research Progress and Perspectives on Anti‐Poisoning Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Authors: Chen Zhixu , Shu Chengyong , Gan Zhuofan , Cao Jingwen , Qiu Peixi , Sun Xiaohui , Deng Chengwei , Wu Yuping , Tang Wei
Published: January 2025

As global demand for clean and sustainable energy continues to rise, fuel cell technology has seen rapid advancement. However, the presence of trace impurities like carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) in hydrogen fuel can significantly deactivate the anode by blocking its active sites, leading to reduced performance. Developing electrocatalysts that are resistant to CO and H₂S poisoning has therefore become a critical priority. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the poisoning mechanisms of CO and H₂S and reviews the key strategies developed over the past few decades to enhance the impurity tolerance of anode electrocatalysts. It begins by examining the differences in hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) mechanisms in acidic and alkaline environments, focusing on the roles of hydrogen binding energy (HBE) and hydroxide binding energy (OHBE). Next, it outlines three main approaches to mitigate CO poisoning: (I) bifunctional mechanisms, (II) direct mechanisms, and (III) constructing protective blocking layers. The review then shifts to strategies for countering H₂S poisoning, emphasizing both electrocatalyst design and structural improvements in fuel cells. Finally, the paper highlights recent advances in anti‐poisoning electrocatalysts, discusses their applications and limitations, and identifies the key challenges and future opportunities for further research in this field.
In situ Polymerized Solid‐State Electrolyte Enabling Inorganic‐Organic Dual‐Layered SEI Film for Stable Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Li Xiaodan , Liu Qiwei , Wang Yucheng , Lin Jianhao , Ji Chuang , Yuan Yingyi , Zhao Bote , Xiong Xunhui
Published: January 2025

In situ polymerization of cyclic ethers is a promising strategy to construct solid‐state lithium (Li) metal batteries with high energy density and safety. However, their practical applications are plagued by the unsatisfactory electrochemical properties of polymer electrolytes and the unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). Herein, organic perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) is proposed as a new initiator to polymerize 1,3‐dioxolane electrolyte (PDOL), which enables the as‐obtained PDOL electrolyte to deliver greatly enhanced ionic conductivity and broadened electrochemical window. Besides, the experimental data and theoretical calculations demonstrate a dual‐layered SEI with PFDA‐derived organic component on the top and LiF at the bottom constructed on the surface of Li metal, which can provide enough mechanical strength to suppress Li dendrite growth and high flexibility to accommodate volume fluctuations during the repeated cycling. As a result, the Li symmetric cells with PFDA‐induced PDOL electrolyte (P‐PDOL) can achieve a superior plating/stripping cycle for 1400 h at 0.3 mA cm−2. Additionally, the Li||P‐PDOL||LiFePO4 (LFP) full cells maintain stable cycling over 300 times at 0.5 C. This work offers a potential strategy to simultaneously prepare high‐performance PDOL electrolytes and stabilize the Li metal/PDOL interface, providing new research insights to advance solid‐state Li metal batteries toward practical applications.
Wood‐Inspired Electrode for Sustainable Electrocatalytic Energy Conversion
Authors: Guo Weijia , Wang Yawen , Shen Shunyu , Wang Han , Shao Kai , Wang Zhenjie , Shi Yingru , Li Caicai , Sun Qingfeng , Li Huiqiao
Published: January 2025

Electrocatalysis plays a central role in electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems, providing a number of sustainable processes for future technologies. As a green, renewable, and abundant natural polymer material, the unique structure and physicochemical properties of wood and its derivatives provide a unique application advantage in the field of electrocatalysis, which has aroused intense attention from researchers. At present, researchers have developed many wood‐based catalytic electrodes by taking advantage of the anisotropic hierarchical porous structure of wood and abundant active functional groups on the cell wall surface of wood. Here, a comprehensive review of recent progress in the design and synthesis of wood‐inspired electrodes for electrocatalytic reactions is summarized. Starting from the role and importance of the electrocatalytic process in the whole energy conversion system, this review highlights the composition and structure of wood, analyzes the mechanisms of electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), urea oxidation reaction (UOR), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and discusses the structure‐activity relationship between the structural properties and electrochemical activity of wood‐inspired electrodes. Finally, the opportunities, challenges, and future directions in the application of wood and its derivatives in the field of electrocatalysis are prospected.
A COVID‐19 rapid antigen test employing upconversion nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Le , Zhou Jiajia , Shimoni Olga , Wen Shihui , Alghalayini Amani , Liu Yuan , Rezaeishahmirzadi Meysam , Liao Jiayan , Maddahfar Mahnaz , Hunt Roger , Black Murdo , Johansen Matt D. , Hansbro Phil M. , Zhang Lin , Stenzel Martina , Warkiani Majid , Valenzuela Stella M. , Jin Dayong
Published: January 2025

The COVID‐19 pandemic has underscored the critical need for rapid and accurate diagnostic tools. Current methods, including Polymerase Chain Reaction and rapid antigen tests (RAT), have limitations in speed, sensitivity, and the requirement for specialized equipment and trained personnel. Nanotechnology, particularly upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), offer a promising alternative due to their unique optical properties. UCNPs can convert low‐energy near‐infrared light into higher‐energy visible light, making them ideal for use as optical probes in single molecule detection and point of care applications. This study, initiated in early 2020, explores the opportunity of using highly doped UCNPs (40%Yb3+/4%Er3+) in lateral flow assay (LFA) for the early diagnosis of COVID‐19. The UCNPs‐based LFA testing demonstrated a minimum detection concentration of 100 pg/mL for SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen and 105 CCID50/mL for inactivated virus. Clinical trials, conducted in Malaysia and Western Australia independently, showed that the technique was at least 100 times more sensitive than commercial RAT kits, with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 91.94%. The development process involved multidisciplinary collaborations, resulting in the Virulizer device, an automated strip reader for point‐of‐care testing. This work sets a reference for future development of highly sensitive and quantitative RAT, aiming for the Limits of Detection in the range of sub‐ng/mL.
Analysis of crack development law and calculation of crack width in the negative moment zone of externally inverted U‐shaped steel concrete composite beams
Authors: Jiang Shi‐Yong , Wu Hong‐Tao , Zhao Yi , Zhou Jian , Wang Guo‐Jue , Liu Xiang‐Gang
Published: January 2025

In order to study the factors that affect the crack width, cracking mechanism, and development laws of the U‐shaped steel concrete composite (USCC) beam, and to propose a crack width calculation formula suitable for this new type of composite beam, cracking tests were conducted on four simply supported beam specimens. These specimens, which featured different steel beam forms, shear connectors, and longitudinal reinforcement arrangements, were all subjected to negative bending moments. Research has shown that USCC beams and H‐shaped steel concrete composite (HSCC) beams exhibited basically consistent crack width‐load relationships. In the early stage of the experiment, the crack width of the specimen exhibits an approximately linear relationship with the load, while in the late stage of the experiment, the crack width rapidly increases. In addition, the crack width of the USCC beam specimen developed faster than that of the HSCC beam. The experimental phenomenon shows that whether it is an USCC beam or a HSCC beam, the distribution of crack width along the concrete slab width is uneven, and this non‐uniformity is more obvious outside the beam width range. The centralized arrangement of longitudinal bars will exacerbate the non‐uniformity of crack width distribution, and the overall crack width is greater than that of specimens with uniformly arranged longitudinal bars. In addition, the effectiveness of channel shear connectors in controlling crack propagation is better than that of shear studs, and the slip at the interface between the concrete slab and the steel beam of the specimen using shear studs is greater than that of the specimen using channel shear connectors when the load is large. Based on the experimental results and formulas in the “Design Standards for Steel Structures” and the “Design Specifications for Concrete Structures,” a formula for calculating the crack width of USCC beams is proposed, and the coefficients in the current specifications have been corrected. The calculated crack width is in good agreement with the experimental value, which can provide a reference for calculating the crack width of this type of composite beam.