bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smart Slides for Optical Monitoring of Cellular Processes
Authors: Ackermann Julia , Reger Eline , Jung Sebastian , Mohr Jennifer , Herbertz Svenja , Seidl Karsten , Kruss Sebastian
Published: October 2023

The molecules released by cells are a fingerprint of their current state. Methods that measure them with high spatial and temporal resolution may provide valuable insights into cell physiology and diseases. Here, a nanosensor coating is developed that transforms standard cell culture materials/dishes into “Smart Slides” capable of optically monitoring biochemical efflux from cells. For this purpose, single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) that are fluorescent in the beneficial near‐infrared (NIR, 850 – 1700 nm) window are used. They are chemically tailored to detect the neurotransmitter dopamine by a change in fluorescence intensity. These nanosensors are spin‐coated on glass substrates and it is shown that such sensor layers can be sterilized by UV light and can be stored in dry condition or buffer for at least 6 weeks and have little influence on cell viability. The optimal sensor density to maximize sensitivity is also identified. Finally, these substrates are used to image dopamine release from neuronal cells cultivated on top in the presence of various psychotropic substances, which represents a system to test pharmaceuticals for neurological or neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, Smart Slides are a powerful tool to monitor cellular processes in cell culture systems.
Bioinspired Ultra‐Robust Ionogels Constructed with Soft‐Rigid Confinement Space for Multimodal Monitoring Electronics
Authors: Wang Jingwen , Zheng Yapeng , Cui Tianyang , Huang Tingya , Liu Haodong , Zhu Jixin , Song Lei , Hu Yuan
Published: October 2023

Ionogels are compelling materials for flexible hybrid electronics owing to their attractive physical properties and infinite adjustability of chemical structures. However, ionogels must be sufficiently strong to ensure durability, stability, and a wide range of strains in various applications to make electronic systems mechanically compliant. Inspired by the hierarchical structure of multiphase substances in the skin, it is fabricated several transparent (>90%) and ultra‐robust (tensile strength >17 MPa, toughness >40 MJ m−3, and elongation ≈300%) ionogels via in situ polymerization of polymers with the different binding abilities to the ionic liquid by forming soft and rigid confinement space. This strategy can also be applied to other ionic liquids and polymers. Furthermore, the designed ionogel sensors can be used to develop a wearable intelligent health monitoring system capable of monitoring health‐related physiological signals, such as temperature, body tremors, wrist pulse, breathing, and gestures, for predicting and responding to emergencies, which will pave the way for wearable security monitoring technology.
Structural Understanding for High‐Voltage Stabilization of Lithium Cobalt Oxide
Authors: Lin Cong , Li Jianyuan , Yin Zu‐Wei , Huang Weiyuan , Zhao Qinghe , Weng Qingsong , Liu Qiang , Sun Junliang , Chen Guohua , Pan Feng
Published: October 2023

The rapid development of modern consumer electronics is placing higher demands on the lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2; LCO) cathode that powers them. Increasing operating voltage is exclusively effective in boosting LCO capacity and energy density but is inhibited by the innate high‐voltage instability of the LCO structure that serves as the foundation and determinant of its electrochemical behavior in lithium‐ion batteries. This has stimulated extensive research on LCO structural stabilization. Here, it is focused on the fundamental structural understanding of LCO cathode from long‐term studies. Multi‐scale structures concerning LCO bulk and surface and various structural issues along with their origins and corresponding stabilization strategies with specific mechanisms are uncovered and elucidated at length, which will certainly deepen and advance the knowledge of LCO structure and further its inherent relationship with electrochemical performance. Based on these understandings, remaining questions and opportunities for future stabilization of the LCO structure are also emphasized.
Ternary Chalcogenide Ta2NiTe5 as Broadband Saturable Absorber for Passively Q‐Switched Pulse Generation
Authors: Zhang Wenyao , Huang Hongfu , Wang Zhenkun , Kang Qi , Liu Shunxiang , Lu Shunbin , Wen Qiao
Published: October 2023

Two dimensional (2D) ternary chalcogenides, a significant class of optoelectronic materials, exhibit distinctive structures and possess exceptional physical and chemical properties. In this study, a novel 2D ternary chalcogenide, Ta2NiTe5, is synthesized using the liquid‐phase exfoliation technique to create a high‐quality saturable absorber (SA). The nonlinear optical characteristics of the prepared Ta2NiTe5 nanosheets, ranging from 500 nm to 3.0 µm, are investigated using the P‐scan and open‐aperture Z‐scan methods. Furthermore, the stable passively Q‐switched lasers based on the Ta2NiTe5‐SA device are realized with a minimum pulse width of 326 ns, 2.18 µs, and 850 ns at 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 µm wavelengths, respectively. The findings not only provide further evidence of the promising potential of 2D ternary chalcogenides as an SA for the achievement of broadband pulsed lasers, but also pave the way for promoting their potential applications in optoelectronic devices.
Measuring the Exciton Binding Energy: Learning from a Decade of Measurements on Halide Perovskites and Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Hansen Kameron R. , Colton John S. , Whittaker‐Brooks Luisa
Published: October 2023

The exciton binding energy (Eb) is a key parameter that governs the physics of many optoelectronic devices. At their best, trustworthy and precise measurements of Eb challenge theoreticians to refine models, are a driving force in advancing the understanding of a material system, and lead to efficient device design. At their worst, inaccurate Eb measurements lead theoreticians astray, sow confusion within the research community, and hinder device improvements by leading to poor designs. This review article seeks to highlight the pros and cons of different measurement techniques used to determine Eb, namely, temperature‐dependent photoluminescence, resolving Rydberg states, electroabsorption, magnetoabsorption, scanning tunneling spectroscopy, and fitting the optical absorption. Due to numerous conflicting Eb values reported for halide perovskites (HP) and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDC) monolayers, an emphasis is placed on highlighting these measurements in an attempt to reconcile the variance between different measurement techniques. It is argued that the experiments with the clearest indicators are in agreement on the following values: ≈350–450 meV for TMDC monolayers between SiO2 and vacuum, ≈150–200 meV for hBN‐encapsulated TMDC monolayers, ≈200–300 meV for common lead‐iodide 2D HPs, and ≈10 meV for methylammonium lead iodide.
Enhanced Nonlinearity of Epsilon‐Near‐Zero Indium Tin Oxide Nanolayers with Tamm Plasmon‐Polariton States
Authors: Shubitidze Tornike , Britton Wesley A. , Negro Luca Dal
Published: October 2023

Recently, materials with vanishingly small permittivity, known as epsilon‐near‐zero (ENZ) media, emerged as promising candidates to achieve nonlinear optical effects of unprecedented magnitude on a solid‐state platform. In particular, the ENZ behavior of indium tin oxide (ITO) thin films resulted in Kerr‐type nonlinearity with non‐perturbative refractive index variations that are key to developing more efficient Si‐compatible devices with sub‐wavelength dimensions. In this contribution, exceptional enhancement of the nonlinear index variation of 30 nm‐thick ITO nanolayers by silicon dioxide/silicon nitride (SiO2/SiN) Tamm plasmon‐polariton structures fabricated by radio‐frequency magnetron sputtering on transparent substrates under different annealing conditions is proposed and demonstrated. In particular, the linear and nonlinear optical properties of ITO thin films and resonant photonic structures are investigated using broadband spectroscopic ellipsometry and intensity‐dependent Z‐scan nonlinear characterization, demonstrating enhancement of optical nonlinearity with refractive index variations as large as Δn ≈ 2 in the non‐perturbative regime. This study reveals that the efficient excitation of strongly confined plasmon‐polariton Tamm states substantially boosts the nonlinear optical response of ITO nanolayers, providing a stepping stone for the engineering of more efficient infrared devices and nanostructures for a broad range of applications, including all‐optical data processing, nonlinear spectroscopy, sensing, and novel quantum detection modalities.
Hydroxamate Assays for High‐Throughput Screening of Transketolase Libraries Against Arylated Substrates
Authors: Fúster Fernández Inés , Kickstein Michael , Fessner Wolf‐Dieter
Published: October 2023

We recently reported that the transketolase from Geobacillus stearothermophilus (TKgst) upon acyl transfer to nitrosoarenes generates N‐aryl hydroxamic acids (HA). The latter are metal chelating compounds that in the presence of Fe(III) ions form deep‐red complexes. Here, we applied this principle to the development of a colorimetric assay in both solid‐ and liquid‐phase formats for the high‐throughput screening of TKgst and its variants. Screening a set of positive hits from a L382X/D470X library validated the specificity and sensitivity of the assays. The solid surface assay allows a clear distinction between positive and negative colonies by the naked eye in qualitative mode, and further also to measure activity in semi‐quantitative fashion in the liquid‐phase format. The assay will be important for engineering the TKgst enzyme towards improved conversion of aromatic aldehydes by their close structural analogy to nitrosoarenes.
Dendritic Cell‐Mimicking Nanoparticles Promote mRNA Delivery to Lymphoid Organs
Authors: Cao Yiming , Long Jinrong , Sun Huisheng , Miao Yiqi , Sang Ye , Lu Haitao , Yu Changxiao , Zhang Zhen , Wang Lin , Yang Jing , Wang Shengqi
Published: October 2023

Spleen and lymphoid organs are important targets for messenger RNA (mRNA) delivery in various applications. Current nanoparticle delivery methods rely on drainage to lymph nodes from intramuscular or subcutaneous injections. In difficult‐to‐transfect antigen‐presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells (DCs), effective mRNA transfection remains a significant challenge. In this study, a lymphatic targeting carrier using DC membranes is developed, that efficiently migrated to lymphoid organs, such as the spleen and lymph nodes. The nanoparticles contained an ionizable lipid (YK009), which ensured a high encapsulation efficacy of mRNA and assisted mRNA with endosomal escape after cellular uptake. Dendritic cell‐mimicking nanoparticles (DCMNPs) showed efficient protein expression in both the spleen and lymph nodes after intramuscular injections. Moreover, in immunized mice, DCMNP vaccination elicited Spike‐specific IgG antibodies, neutralizing antibodies, and Th1‐biased SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific cellular immunity. This work presents a powerful vaccine formula using DCMNPs, which represents a promising vaccine candidate for further research and development.
Tumor Microenvironment Responsive CD8+ T Cells and Myeloid‐Derived Suppressor Cells to Trigger CD73 Inhibitor AB680‐Based Synergistic Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Chen Qiangda , Yin Hanlin , He Junyi , Xie Yuqi , Wang Wenquan , Xu Huaxiang , Zhang Lei , Shi Chenye , Yu Jun , Wu Wenchuan , Liu Liang , Pu Ning , Lou Wenhui
Published: October 2023

CD73 plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and immune escape in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). AB680, an exceptionally potent and selective inhibitor of CD73, is administered in an early clinical trial, in conjunction with gemcitabine and anti‐PD‐1 therapy, for the treatment of PDAC. Nevertheless, the specific therapeutic efficacy and immunoregulation within the microenvironment of AB680 monotherapy in PDAC have yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, AB680 exhibits a significant effect in augmenting the infiltration of responsive CD8+ T cells and prolongs the survival in both subcutaneous and orthotopic murine PDAC models. In parallel, it also facilitates chemotaxis of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) by tumor‐derived CXCL5 in an AMP‐dependent manner, which may potentially contribute to enhanced immunosuppression. The concurrent administration of AB680 and PD‐1 blockade, rather than gemcitabine, synergistically restrain tumor growth. Notably, gemcitabine weakened the efficacy of AB680, which is dependent on CD8+ T cells. Finally, the supplementation of a CXCR2 inhibitor is validated to further enhance the therapeutic efficacy when combined with AB680 plus PD‐1 inhibitor. These findings systematically demonstrate the efficacy and immunoregulatory mechanism of AB680, providing a novel, efficient, and promising immunotherapeutic combination strategy for PDAC.
Metagenomic Insight into The Global Dissemination of The Antibiotic Resistome
Authors: Zhang Qi , Xu Nuohan , Lei Chaotang , Chen Bingfeng , Wang Tingzhang , Ma Yunting , Lu Tao , Penuelas Josep , Gillings Michael , Zhu Yong‐Guan , Fu Zhengwei , Qian Haifeng
Published: October 2023

The global crisis in antimicrobial resistance continues to grow. Estimating the risks of antibiotic resistance transmission across habitats is hindered by the lack of data on mobility and habitat‐specificity. Metagenomic samples of 6092 are analyzed to delineate the unique core resistomes from human feces and seven other habitats. This is found that most resistance genes (≈85%) are transmitted between external habitats and human feces. This suggests that human feces are broadly representative of the global resistome and are potentially a hub for accumulating and disseminating resistance genes. The analysis found that resistance genes with ancient horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events have a higher efficiency of transfer across habitats, suggesting that HGT may be the main driver for forming unique but partly shared resistomes in all habitats. Importantly, the human fecal resistome is historically different and influenced by HGT and age. The most important routes of cross‐transmission of resistance are from the atmosphere, buildings, and animals to humans. These habitats should receive more attention for future prevention of antimicrobial resistance. The study will disentangle transmission routes of resistance genes between humans and other habitats in a One Health framework and can identify strategies for controlling the ongoing dissemination and antibiotic resistance.
Illumination of Hydroxyl Radical in Kidney Injury and High‐Throughput Screening of Natural Protectants Using a Fluorescent/Photoacoustic Probe
Authors: Gao Han , Sun Lei , Li Jiwei , Zhou Qilin , Xu Haijun , Ma Xiao‐Nan , Li Renshi , Yu Bo‐Yang , Tian Jiangwei
Published: October 2023

The hydroxyl radical (•OH) is shown to play a crucial role in the occurrence and progression of acute kidney injury (AKI). Therefore, the development of a robust •OH probe holds great promise for the early diagnosis of AKI, high‐throughput screening (HTS) of natural protectants, and elucidating the molecular mechanism of intervention in AKI. Herein, the design and synthesis of an activatable fluorescent/photoacoustic (PA) probe (CDIA) for sensitive and selective imaging of •OH in AKI is reported. CDIA has near‐infrared fluorescence/PA channels and fast activation kinetics, enabling the detection of the onset of •OH in an AKI model. The positive detection time of 12 h using this probe is superior to the 48‐hour detection time for typical clinical assays, such as blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine detection. Furthermore, a method is established using CDIA for HTS of natural •OH inhibitors from herbal medicines. Puerarin is screened out by activating the Sirt1/Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway to protect renal cells in AKI. Overall, this work provides a versatile and dual‐mode tool for illuminating the •OH‐related pathological process in AKI and screening additional compounds to prevent and treat AKI.
Pearl Powder Hybrid Bioactive Scaffolds from Microfluidic 3D Printing for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Yang Lei , Fan Lu , Lin Xiang , Yu Yunru , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: October 2023

The development of bioactive scaffolds by mimicking bone tissue extracellular matrix is promising for bone regeneration. Herein, inspired by the bone tissue composition, a novel pearl powder (PP) hybrid fish gelatin methacrylate (GelMa) hydrogel scaffold loaded with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for bone regeneration is presented. With the help of microfluidic‐assisted 3D printing technology, the composition and structure of the hybrid scaffold can be accurately controlled to meet clinical requirements. The combination of fish skin GelMa and PP also endowed the hybrid scaffold with good biocompatibility, cell adhesion, and osteogenic differentiation ability. Moreover, the controlled release of VEGF enables the scaffold to promote angiogenesis. Thus, the bone regeneration in the proposed scaffolds could be accelerated under the synergic effect of osteogenesis and angiogenesis, which has been proved in the rat skull defect model. These features indicate that the PP hybrid scaffolds will be an ideal candidate for bone regeneration in clinical applications.
Creating Designer Engineered Extracellular Vesicles for Diverse Ligand Display, Target Recognition, and Controlled Protein Loading and Delivery
Authors: Ivanova Alena , Badertscher Lukas , O'Driscoll Gwen , Bergman Joakim , Gordon Euan , Gunnarsson Anders , Johansson Camilla , Munson Michael J. , Spinelli Cristiana , Torstensson Sara , Vilén Liisa , Voirel Andrei , Wiseman John , Rak Janusz , Dekker Niek , Lázaro‐Ibáñez Elisa
Published: October 2023

Efficient and targeted delivery of therapeutic agents remains a bottleneck in modern medicine. Here, biochemical engineering approaches to advance the repurposing of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as drug delivery vehicles are explored. Targeting ligands such as the sugar GalNAc are displayed on the surface of EVs using a HaloTag‐fused to a protein anchor that is enriched on engineered EVs. These EVs are successfully targeted to human primary hepatocytes. In addition, the authors are able to decorate EVs with an antibody that recognizes a GLP1 cell surface receptor by using an Fc and Fab region binding moiety fused to an anchor protein, and they show that this improves EV targeting to cells that overexpress the receptor. The authors also use two different protein‐engineering approaches to improve the loading of Cre recombinase into the EV lumen and demonstrate that functional Cre protein is delivered into cells in the presence of chloroquine, an endosomal escape enhancer. Lastly, engineered EVs are well tolerated upon intravenous injection into mice without detectable signs of liver toxicity. Collectively, the data show that EVs can be engineered to improve cargo loading and specific cell targeting, which will aid their transformation into tailored drug delivery vehicles.
A Simple Access to γ‐ and ε‐Keto Arenes via Enzymatic Divergent C─H Bond Oxyfunctionalization
Authors: Li Huanhuan , Zhang Yalan , Huang Yawen , Duan Peigao , Ge Ran , Han Xiaofeng , Zhang Wuyuan
Published: October 2023

Performing divergent C─H bond functionalization on molecules with multiple reaction sites is a significant challenge in organic chemistry. Biocatalytic oxyfunctionalization reactions of these compounds to the corresponding ketones/aldehydes are typically hindered by selectivity issues. To address these challenges, the catalytic performance of oxidoreductases is explored. The results show that combining the peroxygenase‐catalyzed propargylic C─H bond oxidation with the Old Yellow Enzyme‐catalyzed reduction of conjugated C─C triple bonds in one‐pot enables the regio‐ and chemoselective oxyfunctionalization of sp3 C─H bonds that are distant from benzylic sites. This enzymatic approach yielded a variety of γ‐keto arenes with diverse structural and electronic properties in yields of up to 99% and regioselectivity of 100%, which are difficult to achieve using other chemocatalysis and enzymes. By adjusting the C─C triple bond, the carbonyl group's position can be further tuned to yield ε‐keto arenes. This enzymatic approach can be combined with other biocatalysts to establish new synthetic pathways for accessing various challenging divergent C─H bond functionalization reactions.
Embodying Multifunctional Mechano‐Intelligence in and Through Phononic Metastructures Harnessing Physical Reservoir Computing
Authors: Zhang Yuning , Deshmukh Aditya , Wang Kon‐Well
Published: October 2023

Recent advances in autonomous systems have prompted a strong demand for the next generation of adaptive structures and materials to possess built‐in intelligence in their mechanical domain, the so‐called mechano‐intelligence (MI). Previous MI attempts mainly focused on specific case studies and lacked a systematic foundation in effectively and efficiently constructing and integrating different intelligent functions. Here, a new approach is uncovered to create multifunctional MI in adaptive structures using physical reservoir computing (PRC). That is, to concurrently embody computing power and the key elements of intelligence, namely perception, decision‐making, and commanding, directly in the mechanical domain, advancing from conventional reliance on add‐on computers and massive electronics. As an exemplar platform, a mechanically intelligent phononic metastructure is developed by harnessing its high‐degree‐of‐freedom nonlinear dynamics as PRC power. Through analyses and experiments, multiple intelligent structural functions are demonstrated ranging from self‐tuning wave controls to wave‐based logic gates. This research provides the much‐needed basis for creating future smart structures and materials that greatly surpass the state of the art—such as lower power consumption, more direct interactions, and better survivability in harsh environments or under cyberattacks. Moreover, it enables the addition of new functions and autonomy to systems without overburdening the onboard computers.
Sono‐Activatable Semiconducting Polymer Nanoreshapers Multiply Remodel Tumor Microenvironment for Potent Immunotherapy of Orthotopic Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Li Meng , Liu Yue , Zhang Yijing , Yu Ningyue , Li Jingchao
Published: October 2023

Due to the complicated tumor microenvironment that compromises the efficacies of various therapies, the effective treatment of pancreatic cancer remains a big challenge. Sono‐activatable semiconducting polymer nanoreshapers (SPNDNH) are constructed to multiply remodel tumor microenvironment of orthotopic pancreatic cancer for potent immunotherapy. SPNDNH contain a semiconducting polymer, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor, and indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) inhibitor (NLG919), which are encapsulated by singlet oxygen (1O2)‐responsive shells with modification of hyaluronidase (HAase). After accumulation in orthotopic pancreatic tumor sites, SPNDNH degrade the major content of tumor microenvironment hyaluronic acid to promote nanoparticle enrichment and immune cell infiltration, and also release H2S to relieve tumor hypoxia via inhibiting mitochondrion functions. Moreover, the relieved hypoxia enables amplified sonodynamic therapy (SDT) under ultrasound (US) irradiation with generation of 1O2, which leads to immunogenic cell death (ICD) and destruction of 1O2‐responsive components to realize sono‐activatable NLG919 release for reversing IDO‐based immunosuppression. Through such a multiple remodeling mechanism, a potent antitumor immunological effect is triggered after SPNDNH‐based treatment. Therefore, the growths of orthotopic pancreatic tumors in mouse models are almost inhibited and tumor metastases are effectively restricted. This study offers a sono‐activatable nanoplatform to multiply remodel tumor microenvironment for effective and precise immunotherapy of deep‐tissue orthotopic tumors.
Thermal‐Assisted Multiscale Patterning of Nonplanar Colloidal Nanostructures for Multi‐Modal Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Su Dan , Wu Wei‐Long , Sun Pan‐Qin , Yuan Yu‐Chen , Chen Ze‐Xian , Zhu Yun‐Feng , Bi Kai‐Yu , Zhou Huan‐Li , Zhang Tong
Published: October 2023

Nanotransfer printing of colloidal nanoparticles is a promising technique for the fabrication of functional materials and devices. However, patterning nonplanar nanostructures pose a challenge due to weak adhesion from the extremely small nanostructure‐substrate contact area. Here, the study proposes a thermal‐assisted nonplanar nanostructure transfer printing (NP‐NTP) strategy for multiscale patterning of polystyrene (PS) nanospheres. The printing efficiency is significantly improved from ≈3.1% at low temperatures to ≈97.2% under the glass transition temperature of PS. Additionally, the arrangement of PS nanospheres transitioned from disorder to long‐range order. The mechanism of printing efficiency enhancement is the drastic drop of Young's modulus of nanospheres, giving rise to an increased contact area, self‐adhesive effect, and inter‐particle necking. To demonstrate the versatility of the NP‐NTP strategy, it is combined with the intaglio transfer printing technique, and multiple patterns are created at both micro and macro scales at a 4‐inch scale with a resolution of ≈2757 pixels per inch (PPI). Furthermore, a multi‐modal anti‐counterfeiting concept based on structural patterns at hierarchical length scales is proposed, providing a new paradigm of imparting multiscale nanostructure patterning into macroscale functional devices.
Photoinduced Negative Differential Resistivity and Gunn Oscillations in SrTiO3
Authors: Soleimany Mehrzad , Alexe Marin
Published: October 2023

SrTiO3, a perovskite oxide, holds significant potential for application in the field of oxide electronics. Notably, its photoelectric activity in the low temperature regime, which overlaps with the quantum paraelectric state, exhibits remarkable characteristics. In this study, it is demonstrated that when photo‐excited with above band gap energy photons, SrTiO3 exhibits non‐linear transport of photocarriers and voltage‐controlled negative resistance, resulting from an intervalley transfer of photo‐induced electrons. As a consequence of the negative resistance, the photocurrent becomes unstable and spontaneously gives rise to low frequency Gunn‐like oscillations.
Reducing the Ir−O Coordination Number in Anodic Catalysts based on IrOx Nanoparticles towards Enhanced Proton‐exchange‐membrane Water Electrolysis
Authors: Gao Hongmei , Xiao Zhaohui , Du Shiqian , Liu Tianyang , Huang Yu‐Cheng , Shi Jianqiao , Zhu Yanwei , Huang Gen , Zhou Bo , He Yongmin , Dong Chung‐Li , Li Yafei , Chen Ru , Wang Shuangyin
Published: October 2023

Due to the robust oxidation conditions in strong acid oxygen evolution reaction (OER), developing an OER electrocatalyst with high efficiency remains challenging in polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) water electrolyzer. Recent theoretical research suggested that reducing the coordination number of Ir−O is feasible to reduce the energy barrier of the rate‐determination step, potentially accelerating the OER. Inspired by this, we experimentally verified the Ir−O coordination number's role at model catalysts, then synthesized low‐coordinated IrOx nanoparticles toward a durable PEM water electrolyzer. We first conducted model studies on commercial rutile‐IrO2 using plasma‐based defect engineering. The combined in situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) analysis and computational studies clarify why the decreased coordination numbers increase catalytic activity. Next, under the model studies’ guidelines, we explored a low‐coordinated Ir‐based catalyst with a lower overpotential of 231 mV@10 mA cm−2 accompanied by long durability (100 h) in an acidic OER. Finally, the assembled PEM water electrolyzer delivers a low voltage (1.72 V@1 A cm−2) as well as excellent stability exceeding 1200 h (@1 A cm−2) without obvious decay. This work provides a unique insight into the role of coordination numbers, paving the way for designing Ir‐based catalysts for PEM water electrolyzers.
Surface modification of calcium carbonate by thiol‐ene click reaction and its effect on the performance of PVC composite
Authors: Sun Xiaofei , Zhang Mucun , Zhang Haiqi , Liu Hongming , Xu Shiai
Published: October 2023

Disposable PVC gloves are cost effective, but their mechanical properties can be compromised at extremely high concentrations of plasticizers. The tensile properties of PVC gloves can be improved by incorporating modified fillers into the PVC matrix. In this research, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) was functionalized with γ‐methacryloxy propyl trimethoxyl silane (KH‐570) and then further modified through a click reaction with n‐Octadecyl mercaptan. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy have confirmed that n‐Octadecyl mercaptan‐modified KH‐570 was successfully grafted onto the surface of CaCO3. Composite films were manufactured by blending either pristine CaCO3 or modified CaCO3 with PVC resin paste and their tensile properties, light transmission, moisture permeability, and solvent resistance were evaluated. Compared with CaCO3/PVC and KH‐570‐modified CaCO3/PVC composite films, n‐Octadecyl mercaptan‐modified CaCO3/PVC composite films showed higher light transmittance, lower moisture permeability, and higher tensile properties. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that these films had low glass transition temperatures, thus broadening their applicability to low‐temperature conditions.
Nano graphene porous/conductive polymer as a composite material for energy storage in supercapacitors
Authors: Pahlavani Hossein , Shayeh Javad Shabani , Nouralishahi Amideddin , Paroushi Maryam Sharifi
Published: October 2023

This research studies the improving effects of graphene porous (GP) on the supercapacitive performance of a polyaniline/graphene porous (PANI/GP) nanocomposite. GP nanosheets were synthesized via chemical vapor deposition, and PANI/GP was electrochemically composited through successive cyclic voltammetry. The samples were characterized by fast Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectrometry (EDS) techniques. Porous GP nanosheets were uniformly dispersed in the composite structure. Furthermore, the electrochemical performances of the synthesized samples were compared using galvanostatic charge/discharge, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Incorporating GP into the PANI significantly increased specific capacitance from 276 (in PANI) to 577 F/g (in PANI/GP). The electrochemical stability of electrodes was compared during 1000 successive charge/discharge cycles. After 1000 cycles, PANI/GP kept 90% of its initial capacitance, and only 25% of the charge storage capacitance of bare PANI remained.
Strength Training Is Associated With Less Knee Osteoarthritis: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Lo Grace H. , Richard Michael J. , McAlindon Timothy E. , Kriska Andrea M. , Price Lori Lyn , Rockette‐Wagner Bonny , Eaton Charles B. , Hochberg Marc C. , Kwoh C. Kent , Nevitt Michael C. , Driban Jeffrey B.
Published: October 2023

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the relationship of a history of strength training with symptomatic and structural outcomes of knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

This study was a retrospective, cross‐sectional study within the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI), a multicenter prospective longitudinal observational study. Data were collected at four OAI clinical sites: Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, the Ohio State University, the University of Pittsburgh, and the University of Maryland/Johns Hopkins. The study included 2,607 participants with complete data on strength training, knee pain, and radiographic evidence of knee OA (male, 44.2%; mean ± SD age 64.3 ± 9.0 years; mean ± SD body mass index 28.5 ± 4.9 kg/m2). We used a self‐administered questionnaire at the 96‐month OAI visit to evaluate the exposure of strength training participation during four time periods throughout a participant's lifetime (ages 12–18, 19–34, 35–49, and ≥50 years old). The outcomes (dependent variables) were radiographic OA (ROA), symptomatic radiographic OA (SOA), and frequent knee pain.

Results

The fully adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for frequent knee pain, ROA, and SOA among those who participated in strength training any time in their lives were 0.82 (0.68–0.97), 0.83 (0.70–0.99), and 0.77 (0.63–0.94), respectively. Findings were similar when looking at the specific age ranges.

Conclusion

Strength training is beneficial for future knee health, counteracting long‐held assumptions that strength training has adverse effects.
GO‐enhanced Gel Polymer Electrolyte for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Gu Caiting , Liu Zhiyuan , Zhong Xin , Gao Yuan , Zhao Jingwen , Shi Fengwei
Published: October 2023

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) assembled with gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) have gained great popularity due to their low cost and safety. Nevertheless, the extensive utilization of GPE based AZIBs is hindered by various challenges, such as inadequate conductivity, limited mechanical strength, and unstable electrochemical properties. Herein, through the multiple cross‐linking reaction of sodium alginate (SA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and graphene oxide (GO), a hydrated GPE with high conductivity and excellent mechanical property was prepared. GO formed strong hydrogen‐bonding interaction with polymers to build a three‐dimensional network structure for ion migration and improved the mechanical property of GPE. The prepared GPE showed high ionic conductivity of 2.89×10−3 S cm−1 and excellent tensile strength of 900 kPa. In addition, the assembled Zn−Li hybrid battery provided a discharge specific capacity retention rate of 67.6 % and a Coulombic efficiency (CE) of approximate 100 % after 1000 cycles at 1 C.
Bauwerksprüfung nach DIN 1076
Authors: Marzahn Gero , Anwander Klement , Mertens Martin , Morgenthal Guido , Pinnel René
Published: October 2023

Vor dem Hintergrund eines älter werdenden Bauwerksbestands und eines weiterhin zunehmenden Verkehrs auf den Straßen sowohl in Frequenz als auch im Fahrzeuggewicht kommt der Aufgabe der Bauwerksprüfung eine immer größere Bedeutung zu. Die Bauwerksprüfung dient nicht nur der Qualitätssicherung der Bauwerkserhaltung und dem Substanzerhalt, sondern ist ein wesentlicher Baustein in der Sicherheitsphilosophie der Bauwerke. Zur Gewährleistung der Sicherheit von Ingenieurbauwerken werden daher in regelmäßigen Abständen Bauwerksprüfungen nach DIN 1076 durchgeführt. Während der Bauwerksprüfingenieur hierbei federführend agiert, kann ihm moderne und fortgeschrittene Prüftechnik eine Hilfestellung bieten, die zum Teil aber den Regelungsinhalt von DIN 1076 überschreitet. Dies war Anlass, die Norm zu überarbeiten und hinsichtlich neuer Methoden und Techniken zu öffnen. Über Inhalte und neue Themen soll berichtet werden.
Effects of exposure to alternating low‐intensity, intermediate‐frequency electric fields on the differentiation of human leukemic cell line U937
Authors: Mamaghaniyeh Rayehe , Zandieh Amirali , Goliaei Bahram , Nezamtaheri Maryam S. , Shariatpanahi Seyed P.
Published: October 2023

Studying the bioeffects of electric fields have been the subject of ongoing research which led to promising therapeutic effect, particularly in cancer treatment. Here, we investigated the impact of low‐intensity, intermediate‐frequency alternating electric fields on the differentiation of human myeloid leukemia cell line U937. The results showed a near twofold increase in differentiation of U937 cells treated for 24 h by alternating 600 kHz, 150 V/m electric fields, in comparison to their control groups. This measure was evaluated by latex bead phagocytosis assay, nitro blue tetrazolium test, and cell cycle analysis which revealed a significant shift in the number of cells from G2+M to G0+G1 phases. The simulation result for the intracellular field intensity showed around 50% attenuation with respect to the applied external field for our setup which ruled out masking of the applied field by the internal electric noise of the cell. Based on previous studies we postulate a possible calcium‐related effect for the observed differentiation, yet the exact underlying mechanism requires further investigation. Finally, our results may offer a potential therapeutic method for leukemia in the future.
Introducing AI applications in engineering education (PBL): An implementation of power generation at minimum wind velocity and turbine faults classification using AI
Authors: Khan Talha Ahmed , Alam Muhammad , Rizvi Safdar Ali , Shahid Zeeshan , Mazliham M. S.
Published: October 2023

This article explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) applications into project‐based learning (PBL) education as a means to enhance students' education. Specifically, the implementation of AI in the context of power generation is addressed, focusing on achieving power generation at minimum wind velocity and classifying turbine faults using AI techniques. The researchers have proposed a novel generating unit which is going to generate 1 KW of electric power at a specific flow rate of air and the generated power will be stored in the battery bank through the charge controller and then the load is driven from the battery through an inverter. Iron or core losses (Hysteresis, Eddy Current losses) can be acknowledged as one of the major reasons for the inefficiency of conventional generators, therefore anovel coreless model generator was proposed which also improved efficiency and reduces drag. Wind Turbine prototype was fabricated and deployed for the testing and validation of the proposed novel design. The design produced outstanding power ratings and electrical generation characteristics compared with other existing strategies at minimal air flow. Results proved that the proposed coreless axial flux generator has the capability to produce a better power rating compared with the existing wind turbine generators. Proposed Axial flux achieved 10.73 watt power at wind velocity at around 80 rpm. At a wind velocity of 10 m/s and around 800 rpm 313–330 kwh was produced by the proposed generator while the conventional generator produced around 300 kwh. The proposed generator design performed 35% better in terms of production efficiency under load and no load conditions. Moreover, faults in turbines are very common due to the various temperatures, therefore the faults have been classified using state‐of‐the‐art AI‐based classifiers. A comparison of space vector modulation (SVM) and Naive Bayes classifiers was performed in the study to classify wind turbine faults. It was found that both classifiers performed well in achieving high accuracy. SVM achieved a slightly higher accuracy of 0.9861 compared with Naive Bayes, which achieved an accuracy of 0.967. Based on the results, it can be inferred that SVM may be a more suitable classifier for wind turbine fault classification. The case study results demonstrated the potential of AI applications in PBL education, offering students a multidisciplinary learning experience that enhances their technical knowledge, problem‐solving skills, and teamwork abilities.
Assessment of the Binding of Pseudallecin A to Human Serum Albumin with Multi‐Spectroscopic Analysis, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamic Simulation
Authors: Li Ziyang , Chen Ruolan , Qin Chan , Lu Peijun , Lin Jiaru , Zheng Wenxu , Xiong Yahong , Li Chunyuan
Published: October 2023

The binding of pseudallecin A (PA), a potential antibiotic with strong inhibitory activities against Gram‐positive Escherichia coli and Gram‐negative Staphylococcus aureus, to human serum albumin (HSA) was explored. The interaction between them was assessed by multi‐spectroscopic analysis, binding site competitive analysis, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation, showing the results as follows: PA effectively quenched the innate fluorescence of HSA by a static quenching process, formed a complex at a molar ratio of approximately 1 : 1 and performed an effective non‐radiative energy transfer; the binding of PA to HSA was a spontaneous exothermic reaction driven by enthalpy with strong affinity and had a slight effect on the conformation of HSA; PA bound at site III of HSA and hydrogen bonds were the major binding forces to maintain the stability of the PA‐HSA complex. Molecular dynamic simulation was performed to calculate the root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuation (RMSF) and radius of gyration (Rg) for this complex and effectively supported the spectroscopic outcome. These results meant that the delivery and distribution of PA as a water‐insoluble molecule can be efficiently accomplished via HSA in human blood and, it has a good potential for future drug application and pharmacological development.
Intracoronary imaging guided percutaneous coronary intervention outcomes among individuals with cardiogenic shock
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed O. , Kinnaird Tim , Rab Syed Tanveer , Zaman Sarah , Banerjee Amitava , Sirker Alex , Mintz Gary , Mamas Mamas A.
Published: October 2023

Background

Limited data exist around the utility of intracoronary imaging (ICI) during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and cardiogenic shock (CS), who are inherently at a high risk of stent thrombosis (ST).

Methods

All PCI procedures for ACS patients with CS in England and Wales between 2014 and 2020 were retrospectively analysed, stratified into two groups: ICI and angiography‐guided groups. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to examine odds ratios (OR) of in‐hospital outcomes, including major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE; composite of all‐cause mortality, acute stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA), and reinfarction) and major bleeding, in the ICI‐guided group compared with angiography‐guided PCI.

Results

Of 15,738 PCI procedures, 1240(7.9%) were ICI‐guided. The rate of ICI use amongst those with CS more than doubled from 2014 (5.7%) to 2020 (13.3%). The ICI‐guided group were predominantly younger, males, with a higher proportion of non‐ST‐elevation ACS and ST. MACCE was significantly lower in the ICI‐guided group compared with the angiography‐guided group (crude: 29.8% vs. 38.2%, adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.65 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56–0.76), driven by lower all‐cause mortality (28.6% vs. 37.0%, OR 0.65 95% CI 0.55–0.75). There were no differences in other secondary outcomes between groups.

Conclusion

ICI use among CS patients has more than doubled over 6 years but remains significantly under‐utilized, with less than 1‐in‐6 patients in receipt of ICI‐guided PCI by 2020. ICI‐guided PCI is associated with prognostic benefits in CS patients and should be more frequently utilized to increase their long‐term survival.
Utility of rapid atrial pacing before and after transcatheter aortic valve replacement to predict permanent pacemaker implantation: A valuable piece of the puzzle?
Authors: Velagapudi Poonam , Turagam Mohit K.
Published: October 2023

Key Points

In patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with a balloon‐expandable valve, there were no statistically significant differences in permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation rates at 30 days between patients with and without rapid atrial pacing‐induced AV Wenckebach.

Rapid atrial pacing‐induced AV Wenckebach may signal potential conduction disturbances but is not an independent predictor of PPM after TAVR.

A large prospective study is warranted to further evaluate whether rapid atrial‐pacing‐induced AV Wenckebach improves risk stratification regarding the need for PPM after TAVR.
The evolution and revolution of drug coated balloons in coronary angioplasty: An up‐to‐date review of literature data
Authors: Cortese Bernardo , Kalkat Harkaran , Bathia Gurbir , Basavarajaiah Sandeep
Published: October 2023

European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines gave class I A indication for use of DCB in in‐stent restenosis. However, no indication exists for the usage of DCB in de novo lesions. Although the current generation DES offer excellent results, as we embark more complex lesions such as calcified lesion and chronic total occlusion, restenosis and stent thrombosis are higher and tend to increase within the years. There is increasing desire to leave nothing behind to abolish the risk of restenosis and stent thrombosis and hence the absorbable scaffolds were introduced, but with disappointing results. In addition, they take several years to be absorbed. Drug coated balloons offer an alternative to stents with no permanent implant of metal or polymer. They are already in use in in Europe and Asia and they have been approved for the first time in the United States for clinical trials specifically for restenotic lesions. There is emerging data in de novo lesions which have shown that DCB are noninferior and in some studies maybe even superior to current generation DES especially in small vessels. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of the literature on this expanding technology focussing on the evidence in both re‐stenotic and de novo lesions.
Stable and Electrochemically “Inactive” Metal−Organic Frameworks for Electrocatalysis
Authors: Shen Cheng‐Hui , Kung Chung‐Wei
Published: October 2023

Metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) with ultrahigh surface areas and interconnected porosity have been considered as attractive materials for electrocatalysis. Numerous research efforts have thus been made to develop the “electrocatalytic MOFs”. But the poor stability in water and the low electrical conductivity of most MOFs strongly limit the direct use of such electrochemically active MOFs. In this article, we aim to highlight a different concept – utilizing stable but electrochemically “inactive” MOFs for electrocatalytic reactions. Though the porous framework does not exhibit electrocatalytic activity and is electrically insulating, it could modulate the microenvironment near the underlying surface of the electrocatalyst and thus adjust the reaction rates and selectivity of the complicated electrochemical reactions. Herein, such strategies reported previously are reviewed, and the potential opportunities in future studies are discussed.
Support Engineering for the Stabilisation of Heterogeneous Pd3P‐Based Catalysts for Heck Coupling Reactions
Authors: Neyyathala Arjun , Flecken Franziska , Rang Fabian , Papke Christina , Hanf Schirin
Published: October 2023

Herein we report the use of a supported Pd3P catalyst for Heck coupling reactions. For the stabilisation of Pd3P and Pd, as reference system, the silica support material was modified via phosphorus doping (0.5 and 1 wt % P). Through this so‐called support engineering approach, the catalytic activity of Pd3P was clearly enhanced. Whereas an iodobenzene conversion of 79 % was witnessed for Pd3P@SiO2 in the coupling of styrene and iodobenzene in 1 h, 90 % conversion could be achieved using Pd3P@1P‐SiO2. This improved catalytic activity probably stems from an electronic modulation of the support surface via the introduction of phosphorus. Simultaneously, the recyclability was boosted and the Pd3P@1P‐SiO2 catalyst has shown to maintain its catalytic activity over several recovery tests. Hereby, metal leaching could almost be suppressed completely to 3 % by the use of a P‐modified silica support.