Search

Metal‐covalent organic frameworks (MCOF) as a bridge between covalent organic framework (COF) and metal organic framework (MOF) possess the characteristics of open metal sites, structure stability, crystallinity, tunability as well as porosity, but still in its infancy. In this work, a covalent organic framework DT‐COF with a keto‐enamine structure synthesized from the condensation of 3,3′‐dihydroxybiphenyl diamine (DHBD) and triformylphloroglucinol (TFP) was coordinated with Cu2+ by a simple post‐modification method to a obtain a copper‐coordinated metal‐covalent organic framework of Cu‐DT COF. The isomerization from a keto‐enamine structure of DT‐COF to a enol‐imine structure of Cu‐DT COF is induced due to the coordination interaction of Cu2+. The structure change of Cu‐DT COF induces the change of the electron distribution in the Cu‐DT COF, which greatly promotes the activation and deep Li‐storage behavior of the COF skeleton. As anode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), Cu‐DT COF exhibits greatly improved electrochemical performance, retaining the specific capacities of 760 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles and 505 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at a current density of 0.5 A g−1. The preliminary lithium storage mechanism studies indicate that Cu2+ is also involved in the lithium storage process. A possible mechanism for Cu‐DT COF was proposed on the basis of FT‐IR, XPS, EPR characterization and electrochemical analysis. This work enlightens a novel strategy to improve the energy storage performance of COF and promotes the application of COF and MCOF in LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) play key roles in intestinal inflammation. Olfactomedin 4 (OLFM4) is highly expressed in the colon and has a potential role in dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying the effects of OLFM4 on ILC3-mediated colitis remain unclear. In this study, we identify OLFM4 as a positive regulator of IL-22+ILC3. OLFM4 expression in colonic ILC3s increases substantially during intestinal inflammation in humans and mice. Compared to littermate controls, OLFM4-deficient (OLFM4−/−) mice are more susceptible to bacterial infection and display greater resistance to anti-CD40 induced innate colitis, together with impaired IL-22 production by ILC3, and ILC3s from OLFM4−/−mice are defective in pathogen resistance. Besides, mice with OLFM4 deficiency in the RORγt compartment exhibit the same trend as in OLFM4−/−mice, including colonic inflammation and IL-22 production. Mechanistically, the decrease in IL-22+ILC3 caused by OLFM4 deficiency involves the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)- p38 MAPK signaling-dependent downregulation of RAR-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγt) protein. The OLFM4-metadherin (MTDH) complex upregulates p38/RORγt signaling, which is necessary for IL-22+ILC3 activation. The findings indicate that OLFM4 is a novel regulator of IL-22+ILC3 and essential for modulating intestinal inflammation and tissue homeostasis. The modulation of ASK1-p38/RORγt signaling by OLFM4 suggests a novel mechanism in the regulation of ILC3-mediated gut inflammation, providing valuable insights for potential therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lattice oxygen redox (LOR) reaction, known for its potential to augment the capacity of layered transition metal oxides in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), has attracted widespread attention. However, the utilization of the LOR reaction often leads to irreversible release of lattice oxygen, causing damage to the crystal structure and deterioration in electrochemical performance, thereby impeding its practical application. Here, we demonstrate a method to significantly enhance the electrochemical performance of P3-type Na0.6Li0.2Mn0.8O2 cathodes by concurrently applying surface NaBO2 coatings and boron doping. We reveal that the NaBO2 coating efficiently mitigates electrolyte corrosion and side reactions on the electrode surface. In addition, boron doping enhances the involvement of manganese in the redox process, thereby boosting capacity, while inhibiting the irreversible Li migration, thereby stabilizing the crystal structure of the material. The synergistic effect of surface NaBO2 coating and bulk phase boron doping enables 6%B-NLMO to exhibit improved electrochemical performance, achieving a discharge capacity of 98.7 mA h g−1 and 95.8% retention after 100 cycles at 20 mA g−1. This synergistic strategy, employing multiple modification techniques, offers a potential way to improve the performance of anion redox cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical water-splitting is widely acknowledged as a renewable strategy for hydrogen production, but it is primarily constrained by the sluggish reaction kinetics of the anode oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In our study, we employ a fast room-temperature corrosion engineering strategy for the construction of a sulfur-doped Ni-Fe layered dihydroxide catalyst (S-NiFe LDH). With the assistance of a sulfur source, microsphere morphology with an ultra-thin lamellar surface cross-arrangement can be rapidly grown on the surface of an iron foam substrate, ensuring a substantial electrochemical interface. The composition of Ni species in the catalysts can be regulated by simply adjusting the amount of Ni2+ and reaction time. Functioning as an OER catalyst, the S-NiFe LDH demonstrates high activity and reaction kinetics, featuring a minimal overpotential of 120.0 mV to deliver a current density of 10 mA cm−2, a small Tafel slope of 39.5 mV dec−1 and a notable electrical double-layer capacitance (Cdl) of 31.3 mF cm−2. The remarkable electrocatalytic performance can be attributed to its distinctive three-dimensional (3D) structure and sulfur dopants, which effectively regulate the electrochemical interface and electronic structure of NiFe LDH. This work provides valuable insights for expeditious materials design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seminal plasma induces immune tolerance towards paternal allogenic antigens within the female reproductive tract and during foetal development. Recent evidence suggests a role for extracellular vesicles in seminal plasma (spEVs). We isolated spEVs from seminal plasma that was donated by vasectomized men, thereby excluding any contributions from the testis or epididymis. Previous analysis demonstrated that such isolated spEVs originate mainly from the prostate. Here we observed that when isolated fluorescently labelled spEVs were mixed with peripheral blood mononuclear cells, they were endocytosed predominantly by monocytes, and to a lesser extent also by T‐cells. In a mixed lymphocyte reaction, T‐cell proliferation was inhibited by spEVs. A direct effect of spEVs on T‐cells was demonstrated when isolated T cells were activated by anti‐CD3/CD28 coated beads. Again, spEVs interfered with T cell proliferation, as well as with the expression of CD25 and the release of IFN‐γ, TNF, and IL‐2. Moreover, spEVs stimulated the expression of Foxp3 and IL‐10 by CD4+CD25+CD127‐ T cells, indicating differentiation into regulatory T‐cells (Tregs). Prior treatment of spEVs with proteinase K revoked their effects on T‐cells, indicating a requirement for surface‐exposed spEV proteins. The adenosine A2A receptor‐specific antagonist CPI‐444 also reduced effects of spEVs on T‐cells, consistent with the notion that the development of Tregs and their immune suppressive functions are under the influence of adenosine‐A2A receptor signalling. We found that adenosine is highly enriched in spEVs and propose that spEVs are targeted to and endocytosed by T‐cells, after which they may release their adenosine content into the lumen of endosomes, thus allowing endosome‐localized A2A receptor signalling in spEVs targeted T‐cells. Collectively, these data support the idea that spEVs can prime T cells directly for differentiation into Tregs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of Natural Language Processing (NLP), the lack of support for minority languages, especially Uyghur, the scarcity of Uyghur language corpora in the agricultural domain, and the lightweight nature of large language models remain prominent issues. This study proposes a method for constructing a bilingual (Uyghur and Chinese) lightweight specialized large language model for the agricultural domain. By utilizing a mixed training approach of Uyghur and Chinese, we extracted Chinese corpus text from agricultural-themed books in PDF format using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology, converted the Chinese text corpus into a Uyghur corpus using a rapid translation API, and constructed a bilingual mixed vocabulary. We applied the parameterized Transformer model algorithm to train the model for the agricultural domain in both Chinese and Uyghur. Furthermore, we introduced a context detection and fail-safe mechanism for the generated text. The constructed model possesses the ability to support bilingual reasoning in Uyghur and Chinese in the agricultural domain, with higher accuracy and a smaller size that requires less hardware. It (our work) addresses issues such as the scarcity of Uyghur corpora in the agricultural domain, mixed word segmentation and word vector modeling in Uyghur for widespread agricultural languages, model lightweighting and deployment, and the fragmentation of non-relevant texts during knowledge extraction from small-scale corpora. The lightweight design of the model reduces hardware requirements, facilitating deployment in resource-constrained environments. This advancement promotes agricultural intelligence, aids in the development of specific applications and minority languages (such as agriculture and Uyghur), and contributes to rural revitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have been widely used as a new energy storage system with high energy density and long cycle life. However, the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formed on the surface of anode consumes excess active lithium during the initial cycle, resulting in an initial irreversible capacity loss (ICL) and reducing the overall electrochemical performance. To solve the critical issue, pre‐lithiation technology has been accepted as one of the most promising strategies. Due to the pre‐lithiated treatment provides additional active lithium to compensate for the ICL and effectively improves initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE), leading to raising the working voltage, increasing the Li+ concentration, as well as improving the energy density and cycle stability of LIBs. In this overview, the causes of ICL in LIBs are analyzed from different perspectives, and various pre‐lithiation strategies are systematically classified and summarized. Finally, some current problems and development prospects in this field are summarized, with prospects for realizing industrialized technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Single-stage revision has gained significant attention as a major surgical approach for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, the 90-day mortality and complication profile of single-stage revision is poorly characterized. The purposes of this study were to determine the incidence rates of and identify the risk factors for 90-day postoperative mortality and complications of single-stage revision for chronic PJI. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on patients who underwent single-stage revision for PJI between August 2000 and May 2022. Patient demographics, 90-day mortality, and postoperative complications were recorded. Complications were categorized into systemic and local complications. Patients in this study were further categorized into knee and hip revision groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant independent predictors of the outcome measures. Results: 348 patients (144 knees and 204 hips) were included in this study. The 90-day mortality rate was 0.9%. The incidence rates of postoperative complications in knee and hip surgeries were 31.3% and 19.6%, respectively. The most common complication was deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was the independent predictor of mortality. In the knee revision group, fungal infection was identified as the independent predictor of recurrent PJI; regular alcohol use was predictive of wound dehiscence. Among hip PJI patients, age ≥ 80 years was independently associated with DVT; RA was found to be a predictor of dislocation and wound dehiscence. Conclusion: For continuous and unselected patients with chronic PJI, single-stage revision demonstrated a satisfactory 90-day mortality. Nevertheless, the 90-day postoperative complication rates after single-stage revision in both knee and hip groups were relatively high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of long stems for severe femoral bone defects is suggested by many scholars, but it is associated with further bone loss, intraoperative fracture, increased surgical trauma, and complications. With better bone retention, simple and quick surgical procedures, and minimal complications, the short cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape may be an alternative for femoral revision. This study aimed to evaluate the results of this type of stem in treating selected Paprosky II–IV bone defects. Methods: This retrospective study included 73 patients (76 hips involved) who underwent conservative femoral revision using the short cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape between January 2012 and December 2020. The preoperative femoral bone defects were identified as follows: 54 cases of type II, 11 cases of type IIIA, 7 cases of type IIIB, and 4 cases of type IV. Indications for revision included aseptic loosening (76.3%) and prosthetic joint infection (23.7%). Six cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape from three companies were used in all patients. Among them, SLR-Plus, SL-Plus MIA, and Corail stems were employed in most patients (40.8%, 23.7%, and 17.1%, respectively). The average length of these stems measured 171.7 mm (SD 27 mm; 122–215 mm). Radiographic results, Harris hip scores (HHS), complications, and survivorship were analyzed. The follow-up lasted for 7 years on average (range 3–11 years). Results: The subsidence was observed in three hips (3.9%), and all stems achieved stable bone ingrowth. Proximal femoral bone restoration in the residual osteolytic area was found in 67 hips (88.2%), constant defects in nine hips (11.8%), and increasing defects in 0 cases. There was no evidence of stem fractures and stem loosening in this series. The mean HHS significantly improved from 32 (range 15–50) preoperatively to 82 (range 68–94) at the last follow-up (t = − 36.297, P < 0.001). Five hips developed prosthesis-related complications, including three infection and two dislocation cases. The mean 5- and 10-year revision-free survivorships for any revision or removal of an implant and reoperation for any reason were 94.6% and 93.3%, respectively. Both mean 5- and 10-year revision-free survivorships for aseptic femoral loosening were 100%. Conclusion: Conservative femoral revision using short cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape can provide favorable radiographic outcomes, joint function, and mid-term survivorship with minimal complications. Of note, a sclerotic proximal femoral bone shell with continued and intact structure and enough support strength is the indication for using these stems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and surgical site infection (SSI) after joint arthroplasty poses a major challenge in orthopedic surgery. This Editorial provides an overview of the studies published in the special issue "Management of PJI/SSI after Joint Arthroplasty", summarizing the key findings from these studies, which cover a wide range of topics, including stringent preventive strategies, comprehensive diagnostic methods, and personalized treatment modalities. The authors concluded the editorial with their perspectives regarding the status quo of research in this field and future directions for research, such as the development of novel antibiotics, biofilm research, patient-specific risk factors, and the integration of technological advancements (such as machine learning and artificial intelligence) into clinical practice. The authors emphasized the need for continued research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the application of innovative technologies to enhance patient outcomes and mitigate the burden of these infections on healthcare systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury, resulting from blood flow interruption and its subsequent restoration, is a prevalent complication in liver surgery. The liver, as a crucial organ for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, exhibits decreased tolerance to hepatic I/R in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), resulting in a significant increase in hepatic dysfunction following surgery. This may be attributed to elevated oxidative stress and inflammation. Our prior research established sinomenine's (SIN) protective role against hepatic I/R injury. Nevertheless, the impact of SIN on hepatic I/R injury in DM rats remains unexplored. Objective and Methods: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of SIN in hepatic I/R injury in DM rats and elucidate its mechanism. Diabetic and hepatic I/R injury models were established in rats through high‐fat/sugar diet, streptozotocin injection, and hepatic blood flow occlusion. Liver function, oxidative stress, inflammatory reaction, histopathology, and Nrf‐2/HO‐1 signaling pathway were evaluated by using UV spectrophotometry, biochemical assays, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, hematoxylin‐eosin staining, and Western blot analysis. Results: High‐dose SIN (300 mg/kg) significantly attenuated hepatic I/R injury in DM rats, reducing serum activities of ALT and AST, decreasing the AST/ALT ratio, enhancing tissue contents of SOD and GSH‐Px, suppressing the levels of TNF‐α and IL‐6, improving the liver histopathology, and activating Nrf‐2/HO‐1 signaling by promoting Nrf‐2 trans‐location from cytoplasm to nucleus. Low‐dose SIN (100 mg/kg) was ineffective. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that high‐dose sinomenine's mitigates hepatic I/R‐induced inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus (DM) rats via Nrf‐2/HO‐1 activation, suggesting its potential as a preventive strategy for hepatic I/R injury in DM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous studies have suggested that intra‐articular administration of antibiotics following primary revision surgery may be one of the methods for treating prosthetic joint infection (PJI). Vancomycin and meropenem are the two most commonly used antibiotics for local application. Determining the concentrations of vancomycin and meropenem in the serum and synovial fluid of patients with PJI plays a significant role in further optimizing local medication schemes and effectively eradicating biofilm infections. This study aimed to establish a rapid, sensitive, and accurate ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) method for determining the concentrations of vancomycin and meropenem in human serum and synovial fluid. Serum samples were processed using acetonitrile precipitation of proteins and dichloromethane extraction, while synovial fluid samples were diluted before analysis. Chromatographic separation was achieved in 6 min on a Waters Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column, with the mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid in water (solvent A) and acetonitrile (solvent B). Quantification was carried out using a Waters XEVO TQD triple quadrupole mass spectrometer with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source in positive ion mode. The multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode was employed to detect the following quantifier ion transitions: 717.95–99.97 (norvancomycin), 725.90–100.04 (vancomycin), 384.16–67.99 (meropenem). The method validation conformed to the guidelines of the FDA and the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. The method demonstrated good linearity within the range of 0.5–50 μg/ml for serum and 0.5–100 μg/ml for synovial fluid. Selectivity, intra‐day and inter‐day precision and accuracy, extraction recovery, matrix effect, and stability validation results all met the required standards. This method has been successfully applied in the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies of patients with PJI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the high energy density of lithium metal batteries (LMBs), their application in rechargeable batteries is still hampered due to insufficient safety. Here, we present a novel flame-retardant solid-state electrolyte based on polyvinylidene fluoridehexafluoropropylene (PVDF-HFP) with nano SiO2 aerogel as an inert filler but Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTO) as an auxiliary component to enhance the ion conductivity. The introduction of SiO2 aerogels imparts the polymer electrolyte with exceptional thermal stability and flame retardancy. Simultaneously, the interaction between hydroxyl groups of SiO2 particles and PVDF-HFP creates a strong cross-linking structure, enhancing the mechanical strength and stability of the electrolyte. Furthermore, the presence of SiO2 aerogel and LLZTO facilitates the dissociation of lithium salts through Lewis acid-base interactions, resulting in a high ionic conductivity of 1.01 × 10−3 S·cm−1 and a wide electrochemical window of ∼ 5.0 V at room temperature for the prepared electrolytes. Remarkably, the assembled Li|Li cell demonstrates the excellent resistance to lithium dendrite and runs stablly for over 1500 h at a current density of 0.25 mA·cm−2. Thus, we prepare a pouch cell with high safety, which can work normally after short-circuiting under the external folding and cutting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring the temperature of the coal gangue mountains is fundamental to preventing their spontaneous combustion. However, the existing temperature monitoring systems fail to achieve stable, pollution-free temperature monitoring without affecting vegetation growth in these mountains. To address this issue, this work proposes a flexible thermoelectric device (FTD) based on a protrusion-structured liquid metal elastomer (LME). Utilizing a high-thermal-conductivity LME, the FTD adheres closely to the surface of the gravity heat pipe (GHP), ensuring compatibility between FTD and the curved surface of the GHP. Simultaneously, employing a low-thermal-conductivity elastomer helps concentrate heat onto FTD, thereby enhancing thermoelectric power generation efficiency. Additionally, the impact of the shape, size, and height of the protrusion structure at the cold end of the GHP on its efficiency was also investigated. The practical application of FTD on GHP was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimation of knee contact force (KCF) during gait provides essential information to evaluate knee joint function. Machine learning has been employed to estimate KCF because of the advantages of low computational cost and real-time. However, the existing machine learning models do not adequately consider gait-related data's temporal-dependent, multidimensional, and highly heterogeneous nature. This study is aimed at developing a multisource fusion recurrent neural network to predict the medial condyle KCF. First, a multisource fusion long short-term memory (MF-LSTM) model was established. Then, we developed a transfer learning strategy based on the MF-LSTM model for subject-specific medial KCF prediction. Four subjects with instrumented tibial prostheses were obtained from the literature. The results showed that the MF-LSTM model could predict medial KCF to a certain high level of accuracy (the mean of ρ = 0.970). The transfer learning model improved the prediction accuracy (the mean of ρ = 0.987). This study shows that the MF-LSTM model is a powerful and accurate computational tool for medial KCF prediction. Introducing transfer learning techniques could further improve the prediction performance for the target subject. This coupling strategy can help clinicians accurately estimate and track joint contact forces in real time. Gait-related data are temporal-dependent, multidimensional, and highly heterogeneous. Therefore, we designed a multisource fusion recurrent neural network (MF-LSTM) structure and introduced a transfer learning strategy to predict knee contact force (KCF) during gait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The rapid development of nuclear technology and the continuous expansion of nuclear energy applications have focused engineering research on the conceptual design and shielding calculations of advanced reactors. The development of third-generation advanced modular small reactors has elevated the requirements for the types of neutron-shielding materials, equipment quality, and compactness of design. For shielding, these materials must exhibit good neutron and y-ray slowing down and absorption performance and have excellent mechanical properties to ensure structural integrity during long-term operation. Traditional shielding materials mostly rely on simple high-hydrogen-content compounds, high-density metal, and boron-containing concrete materials. However, when shielding small solid-state reactors, they gradually exhibit shortcomings in physical and mechanical performances. Addressing the inadequacies in the design and application research of composite shielding solutions for current small solid-state reactors, lightweight materials with excellent composite shielding performance can effectively meet the radiation shielding needs in complex geometric structures and operational scenarios. [Methods] This study selected lightweight materials with excellent performance for a single-tube neutron radiation detection system and conducted relevant performance experiments. Theoretical values and experimental results were cross validated through uncertainty simulations. After a comprehensive comparison of the physical performances and processing costs of neutron slowing down and absorption materials, coupled with discussions on the feasibility of neutron-shielding experiments in an experimental environment, boron carbide, titanium hydride, and zirconium hydride were chosen as the shielding materials for this experiment. Special-sized containers were customized, and samples encapsulated in organic glass and PVC materials were prepared. Performance tests of the shielding materials were conducted by counting the number of neutrons at counter positions in the single-tube neutron radiation detection system. The experimental data, including counting averages (n/s), sample variance, and the characterized shielding effectiveness, were recorded, summarized, and analyzed in detail. Subsequently, the detection system was modeled using the independently developed reactor Monte Carlo code by the REAL team at Tsinghua University. Monte Carlo particle transport simulations were used to validate the consistency between experimental and theoretical data. [Results] The experimental results indicate the following findings: 1) The shielding enclosure device comprising PVC material has virtually no impact on background neutron counts, while the use of organic glass material leads to a substantial effect, reaching 5%-6%. 2) Under the experimental conditions, boron carbide exhibits a noticeable absorption effect on neutrons, with a 3 mm thickness already achieving a considerable absorption effect at nearly an order of magnitude. 3) Under equivalent experimental conditions, the shielding effectiveness of titanium hydride and zirconium hydride is unsubstantial. However, titanium hydride slightly outperforms zirconium hydride. This superiority is observed because, in hydrogen-containing materials, titanium hydride and zirconium hydride have the same proportion of hydrogen nuclei. Because of the slightly higher neutron absorption cross-section of titanium nuclei compared to zirconium nuclei, the absorption effect makes titanium hydride slightly better than zirconium hydride in overall shielding effectiveness. 4) The experimental data collected align well with Monte Carlo simulation calculations, indicating the correctness of the experimental approach in this study.[Conclusions] The data and conclusions obtained from this study on lightweight shielding materials with specific characteristics apply to other novel shielding systems and devices. The research indicates that under equivalent irradiation conditions, shielding effectiveness increases in the order of boron carbide, titanium hydride, and zirconium hydride. Simulations and experiments provide guidance and validation, establishing a solid theoretical foundation for introducing composite diffusive shielding materials into portable small nuclear power systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneously achieving high energy density and high‐power density in energy storage systems is a crucial direction for developing next‐generation energy storage technologies. The high capacity and rapid kinetic performance of rechargeable proton batteries provide an ideal solution for overcoming energy limitation of capacitors and power constraints of traditional metal‐ion batteries. Research efforts primarily concentrated on electrode materials design, understanding the charge storage mechanisms, and exploring the failure mechanisms. While there has been relatively less emphasis on the modifications to electrolytes and electrode‐electrolyte interfaces to enhance overall performance. Summarizing and sorting relevant work is crucial in providing direction and suggestions for future research endeavors. Herein, to improve energy density, power density, and cycle stability of proton batteries, a series of recently published studies on electrolyte and electrode‐electrolyte interfaces are discussed and reviewed. Furthermore, challenges and future directions pertaining to the electrolytes of proton batteries have been identified, offering insights to facilitate the development of proton battery technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: Solvation engineering toward dual-salt electrolyte by fluorosurfactant additive is proposed, which implements the stable interface of electrode/electrolyte coupled with fast ion thermodiffusion, improving the durability and capability of lithium-ion thermoelectrochemical cell. By combining the optimized electrolyte with functional electrodes, as-constructed device exhibits high Seebeck coefficient and energy density based on hybrid mechanisms, which can be extended as self-power supply for smart electronics. Lithium-ion thermoelectrochemical cell (LTEC), featuring simultaneous energy conversion and storage, has emerged as promising candidate for low-grade heat harvesting. However, relatively poor thermosensitivity and heat-to-current behavior limit the application of LTECs using LiPF6 electrolyte. Introducing additives into bulk electrolyte is a reasonable strategy to solve such problem by modifying the solvation structure of electrolyte ions. In this work, we develop a dual-salt electrolyte with fluorosurfactant (FS) additive to achieve high thermopower and durability of LTECs during the conversion of low-grade heat into electricity. The addition of FS induces a unique Li+ solvation with the aggregated double anions through a crowded electrolyte environment, resulting in an enhanced mobility kinetics of Li+ as well as boosted thermoelectrochemical performances. By coupling optimized electrolyte with graphite electrode, a high thermopower of 13.8 mV K−1 and a normalized output power density of 3.99 mW m–2 K–2 as well as an outstanding output energy density of 607.96 J m−2 can be obtained. These results demonstrate that the optimization of electrolyte by regulating solvation structure will inject new vitality into the construction of thermoelectrochemical devices with attractive properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic and electronic transport in electrodes is crucial for electrochemical energy storage technology. To optimize the transport pathway of ions and electrons, electrode materials are minimized to nanometer-sized dimensions, leading to problems of volumetric performance, stability, cost, and pollution. Here we find that a bulk hexagonal molybdenum oxide with unconventional ion channels can store large amounts of protons at a high rate even if its particle size is tens of micrometers. The diffusion-free proton transport kinetics based on hydrogen bonding topochemistry is demonstrated in hexagonal molybdenum oxide whose proton conductivity is several orders of magnitude higher than traditional orthorhombic molybdenum oxide. In situ X-ray diffraction and theoretical calculation reveal that the structural self-optimization in the first discharge effectively promotes the reversible intercalation/de-intercalation of subsequent protons. The open crystal structure, suitable proton channels, and negligible volume strain enable rapid and stable proton transport and storage, resulting in extremely high volumetric capacitance (~1750 F cm–3), excellent rate performance, and ultralong cycle life (>10,000 cycles). The discovery of unconventional materials and mechanisms that enable proton storage of micrometer-sized particles in seconds boosts the development of fast-charging energy storage systems and high-power practical applications. Nanostructured electrode materials pose several challenges, including poor volumetric performance, severe side reactions, high costs, and complexity. Here, the authors develop a micrometer-sized bulk hexagonal molybdenum oxide with unconventional charge storage mechanism for fast and stable proton storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) is one of the most commercially successful cathode materials and has attracted much attention from researchers since its discovery. However, an increase in cut-off voltage generates problems such as structural damage and detrimental side reactions. Under this premise, a layer of LiTaO3 coating is sputtered on the surface of the LiCoO2 electrode by magnetron sputtering, which aims to inhibit the structural damage and the occurrence of side reactions under high voltage. Meanwhile, the ionic conductor layer of LiTaO3 can also promote the transmission process of Li+ and improve the power density. The results show that the capacity retention rate of the MS-2 h (magnetron sputtering for 2 hours) electrode is 86.6% at 0.5C for 100 cycles in a voltage range of 3.0–4.6 V, and the capacity of 91 mA h g−1 is achieved at 3C. The cycling stability of the electrode is also effectively improved at high temperature, and the capacity retention rate was 40.9% after 100 cycles at 50 °C. This work proves that the coating of LiTaO3 on the electrode surface by magnetron sputtering can effectively inhibit the damage of the electrode structure and the occurrence of side reactions during cycling and can promote the transmission of lithium ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced cardiomyocyte cell apoptosis is critical in developing myocardial infarction. Stachydrine (STA), an active constituent of Leonurus heterophyllus sweet, could have a protective effect on myocardial H/R injury, which remains unexplored. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of STA on H/R injury of cardiomyocytes. Methods: Rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells underwent H/R (hypoxia for 4 h and reoxygenation for 12 h). Cells were pretreated with STA (50 µM) 2 h before H/R. Cardiomyocyte injury was evaluated by CCK-8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activity. Oxidative stress was assessed by lipid oxidation product MDA and a ROS-scavenging enzyme SOD in culture media. Western blot was performed to measure the protein expressions of SIRT1, Nrf2, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Results: STA reversed the decrease in cell viability and increased LDH release in H9c2 cells with the H/R insult. STA significantly suppressed oxidative stress, reduced MDA content, and increased SOD activity in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R. STA reduced apoptosis in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R, as evidenced by the reduced TUNEL positive cells and caspase-3 activity. In addition, STA enhanced SIRT1, Nrf2, and HO-1 protein expression in H/R-stimulated H9c2 cells. SIRT1 and Nrf2 involved the protective effect of STA in H/R-exposed H9c2 cells, as the changes in cell viability and caspase-3 activity by STA can be reversed by SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 or Nrf2 siRNA. Conclusions: Our data speculated that STA protects H/R injury and inhibits oxidative stress and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes by activation of the SIRT1-Nrf2 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced cardiomyocyte cell apoptosis is critical in developing myocardial infarction. Stachydrine (STA), an active constituent of Leonurus heterophyllus sweet, could have a protective effect on myocardial H/R injury, which remains unexplored. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of STA on H/R injury of cardiomyocytes. Methods: Rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells underwent H/R (hypoxia for 4 h and reoxygenation for 12 h). Cells were pretreated with STA (50 µM) 2 h before H/R. Cardiomyocyte injury was evaluated by CCK-8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activity. Oxidative stress was assessed by lipid oxidation product MDA and a ROS-scavenging enzyme SOD in culture media. Western blot was performed to measure the protein expressions of SIRT1, Nrf2, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Results: STA reversed the decrease in cell viability and increased LDH release in H9c2 cells with the H/R insult. STA significantly suppressed oxidative stress, reduced MDA content, and increased SOD activity in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R. STA reduced apoptosis in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R, as evidenced by the reduced TUNEL positive cells and caspase-3 activity. In addition, STA enhanced SIRT1, Nrf2, and HO-1 protein expression in H/R-stimulated H9c2 cells. SIRT1 and Nrf2 involved the protective effect of STA in H/R-exposed H9c2 cells, as the changes in cell viability and caspase-3 activity by STA can be reversed by SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 or Nrf2 siRNA. Conclusions: Our data speculated that STA protects H/R injury and inhibits oxidative stress and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes by activation of the SIRT1-Nrf2 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep coal seams are generally preferred for CO2 sequestration, during which the saturation fluids and high-stress condition involved can significantly alter the mechanical attributes of coal. To understand the effect of stress conditions on the mechanical properties of coal during CO2 sequestration, a finite element model was developed and subsequently validated using experimental data. The results indicate that coal strength increases from 10.35% for a 5 MPa CO2-saturated sample to 114.54% for an 8 MPa CO2 + water-saturated sample as the confining pressure rises from 0 to 30 MPa, due to reduced porosity. However, this effect diminishes with higher confining pressures as dilation decreases. The critical confining pressure determined in this study is approximately 20 MPa, at which all samples exhibit similar failure strength (around 48.50 MPa). Moreover, the strengthening effect caused by applied stress is especially pronounced in CO2-saturated samples, particularly in those saturated with super-critical CO2 and CO2 + water. This suggests that the reduction in coal strength resulting from the adsorption of saturation fluids can be counterbalanced by the strength gain resulting from applied stress. The aforementioned results highlight the effectiveness of injecting high-pressure super-critical CO2 into deep coal seams for carbon sequestration purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is great difficulty in quickly calculating the impingement‐free range of motion (IFROM) of hip components with complex shapes after total hip arthroplasty. We have established a new algorithm to investigate the effect of different shapes of hip components on the IFROM and impingement‐free safe zone (IFSZ). Then find the best combination of hip prosthesis and the optimal mounting position of the elevated‐rim liner under different radiographic anteversion (RA) and radiographic inclination (RI) of the cup. We found the larger the opening angle of the beveled‐rim liner and the smaller the cross‐sectional area of the stem neck with an inverted teardrop cross‐sectional shape, the greater the IFROM of the hip component. The beveled‐rim liner in combination with the stem neck with an inverted teardrop‐shaped cross‐section could provide the greatest IFSZ (excluding the flat‐rim liner). The optimal orientation of the elevated‐rim liner was the posterior‐inferior side (RI ≤ 37°), posterior‐superior side (RI ≥ 45°), and posterior side (37° ≤ RI ≤ 45°). Our novel algorithm provides a solution to analyze the IFROM of any hip prosthesis with any complex shape. The shape and size of the cross‐section of the stem neck, the orientation of the elevated rim, and the shape and opening angle of the liner are all critical factors for the quantitative calculation of the IFROM and mounting safe zone of the prosthesis. Stem necks with inverted teardrop cross‐section and beveled‐rim liner improved the IFSZ. The optimal direction of the elevated rim is not constant but varies with RI and RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible power supply devices provide possibilities for wearable electronics in the Internet of Things. However, unsatisfying capacity or lifetime of typical batteries or capacitors seriously limit their practical applications. Different from conventional heat-to-electricity generators, zinc ion thermal charging cells has been a competitive candidate for the self-power supply solution, but the lack of promising cathode materials has restricted the achievement of promising performances. Herein, we propose an attractive cathode material by rational heterostructure engineering of hydrated vanadium pentoxide. Owing to the integration of thermodiffusion and thermoextraction effects, the thermopower is significantly improved from 7.8 ± 2.6 mV K−1 to 23.4 ± 1.5 mV K−1. Moreover, an impressive normalized power density of 1.9 mW m−2 K−2 is achieved in the quasi-solid-state cells. In addition, a wearable power supply constructed by three units can drive the commercial health monitoring system by harvesting body heat. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of electrodes design for wearable thermoelectric applications. The application of zinc ion thermal charging cells has been limited by their low kinetics and rapid energy decay. Here, the authors develop a promising material by heterostructure engineering of hydrated vanadium pentoxide for high-performance harvesting and conversion of low-grade heat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) have potential as substitutes for liquid electrolytes in lithium‐metal batteries (LMBs). Their semi‐solid state also makes GPEs suitable for various applications, including wearables and flexible electronics. Here, we report the initiation of ring‐opening polymerization of 1,3‐dioxolane (DOL) by Lewis acid and the introduction of diluent 1,1,2,2‐tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,3,3‐tetrafluoropropyl ether (TTE) to regulate electrolyte structure for a more stable interface. This diluent‐blended GPE exhibits enhanced electrochemical stability and ion transport properties compared to a blank version without it. FTIR and NMR proved the effectiveness of monomer polymerization and further determined the molecular weight distribution of polymerization by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Experimental and simulation results show that the addition of TTE enhances ion association and tends to distribute on the anode surface to construct a robust and low‐impedance SEI. Thus, the polymer battery achieves 5 C charge‐discharge at room temperature and 200 cycles at low temperature −20 °C. The study presents an effective approach for regulating solvation structures in GPEs, promoting advancements in the future design of GPE‐based LMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Inflammatory cytokines are closely associated with developing cardiac fibrosis. This research aimed to explore the significant role of IL-11 in atrial fibrosis progression and potential therapeutic targets. Methods: 207 AF patients and 160 healthy subjects were included in the case-control study. Blood samples were analyzed for the level of IL-11 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Angiotensin II (Ang II)-treated fibrosis mouse models were generated, and expression of IL-11 mRNA and protein was detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot. IL-11 antagonist was used to evaluating atrial fibrosis-related markers. Results: The persistent atrial fibrillation patients (n = 76) had significantly larger left atrial size, higher serum levels of hypertrophic protein BNP, proinflammatory cytokine high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) compared to paroxysmal atrial fibrillation patients (n = 131), and healthy subjects (all p < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlation between serum IL-11 and cardiac fibrosis markers BNP (r = 0.394, p < 0.001), CTX-I (r = 0.418, p < 0.001), PICP (r = 0.306, p < 0.001), PIIINP (r = 0.335, p < 0.001), and TGF-β1 (r = 0.273, p < 0.001). In the fibrosis mouse model, Ang II infusion significantly upregulated IL-11 mRNA and protein expression in the left atrium of mice (p < 0.05), as well as staining intensity of Masson trichrome, the intensity of α-SMA, and it increased mRNA expression of collagen I and III in atrial tissue. IL-11 antagonist treatment significantly attenuated Masson trichrome, number of α-SMA-positive myofibroblasts in atrial tissue. Also, it significantly reduced the p-ERK1/2 in atrial tissue of mice infused with Ang II (p < 0.05). Conclusions: IL-11 is upregulated in the serum of AF patients, and IL-11 inhibitor significantly inhibited Ang II-induced atrial fibrosis, a key pathological feature of AF. Therefore, IL-11 could be a potential therapeutic target for AF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to effectively control high temperatures inside coal gangue hills, gravity heat pipes with specific spacings are vertically installed in coal gangue hills. Heat extracted from these heat pipes can be utilized for power generation through energy conversion. In this study, an equivalent model of gravity heat pipes in coal gangue hills was established and, in a laboratory setting, experimental research and optimization were conducted on power generation per unit area using the temperature difference of gravity heat pipes for electricity generation. To facilitate real-time testing of different heat pipe parameters and to display the experimental results, a multi-parameter measurement system was designed and constructed. This study systematically investigated the effects of various structural parameters such as inclination angle, heating temperature, initial absolute pressure, and working fluid height. Through single-factor experiments, it was determined that the inclination angle had no significant impact. The range of values for heating temperature, initial absolute pressure, and working fluid height were confirmed based on six sets of experiments. To maximize the performance of the thermoelectric generator, a response surface analysis experiment was conducted using the Design-Expert software. The optimal conditions were determined to be a working fluid height of 200.001 mm, an initial absolute pressure of 0.002 MPa, and a heating temperature of 413.15 K. Under these conditions, the power generation per unit area of the thermoelectric generator reached 0.122981 W/(m2·K). The accuracy of the theoretical experiments was verified through on-site industrial experiments. By calculations, it was determined that the maximum temperature difference power generation capacity per gravity heat pipe was 42.39 W. This provides a new solution for the management of coal mine gangue hills and the secondary utilization of waste energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced cardiomyocyte cell apoptosis is critical in developing myocardial infarction. Stachydrine (STA), an active constituent of Leonurus heterophyllus sweet, could have a protective effect on myocardial H/R injury, which remains unexplored. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of STA on H/R injury of cardiomyocytes. Methods: Rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells underwent H/R (hypoxia for 4 h and reoxygenation for 12 h). Cells were pretreated with STA (50 µM) 2 h before H/R. Cardiomyocyte injury was evaluated by CCK-8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activity. Oxidative stress was assessed by lipid oxidation product MDA and a ROS-scavenging enzyme SOD in culture media. Western blot was performed to measure the protein expressions of SIRT1, Nrf2, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Results: STA reversed the decrease in cell viability and increased LDH release in H9c2 cells with the H/R insult. STA significantly suppressed oxidative stress, reduced MDA content, and increased SOD activity in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R. STA reduced apoptosis in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R, as evidenced by the reduced TUNEL positive cells and caspase-3 activity. In addition, STA enhanced SIRT1, Nrf2, and HO-1 protein expression in H/R-stimulated H9c2 cells. SIRT1 and Nrf2 involved the protective effect of STA in H/R-exposed H9c2 cells, as the changes in cell viability and caspase-3 activity by STA can be reversed by SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 or Nrf2 siRNA. Conclusions: Our data speculated that STA protects H/R injury and inhibits oxidative stress and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes by activation of the SIRT1-Nrf2 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) abuse poses an overwhelming threat to the allocation of medical resources and places a heavy burden on global medical expenses. In this study, we put forward our prospective prescription review system and evaluated the effects of this system on clinical outcomes, rational medication use and costs related to PPIs. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in which the included patients were divided into a preintervention group (2019.10–2020.09) and a postintervention group (2020.10–2021.09). To reduce the bias of patients' baseline characteristics, the propensity score matching (PSM) method was employed. The primary endpoints were the incidence of stress ulcers (SUs), the improvement and cure rates of gastrointestinal haemorrhage, the defined daily dose (DDD), the drug utilization index (DUI) and the DDD/100 patient-days. The secondary endpoints included the types of unreasonable medication orders for PPIs, the PPI utilization rate and PPI costs. Results: A total of 53,870 patients were included to evaluate the secondary endpoints, and 46,922 patients were paired by PSM and assessed to evaluate the primary endpoints. The number of PPIs used and PPI costs were significantly lower in the postintervention group than in the preintervention group (P < 0.001). The rationality evaluation results showed that the frequency of PPI use and the number of drug interactions were significantly higher in the preintervention group than in the postintervention group (P < 0.01). The proportion of patients taking oral PPIs was significantly increased in the postintervention group (29.30% vs. 34.56%, p < 0.01). For the utilization of PPIs both for prevention and treatment, the DUI and DDD/100 patient-days were substantially decreased in the postintervention group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively). The incidence of SUs in the postintervention group was 44.95%, and that in the preintervention group was 51.93% (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The implementation of the prospective prescription review system on rational PPI use correlated with reduced PPI costs, more rational PPI medication use and better clinical outcomes, and this system is worthy of long-term implementation for further improvement of rational drug use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study focuses on the analysis of asymptotic stability and the development of asymptotic stabilization control methods for fractional vehicle suspension systems (FVSS). We begin by constructing a mathematical model for FVSS using the state-space equations of Caputo fractional calculus. Initially, we utilize the fractional Routh–Hurwitz criterion to derive the necessary conditions for asymptotic stability and instability in the open-loop system of the fractional vehicle suspension. Subsequently, we propose a novel control strategy for FVSS and establish an associated asymptotic stabilization criterion by combining a new vector Lyapunov function with the M -matrix method. Moreover, we extend the fractional-order vehicle suspension model to include time delay resulting from the interactions between different variables in the real system, thus creating a FVSS with time delay. Based on the vector Lyapunov function, M -matrix measure, and Razumikhin interpretation, we develop a control strategy specifically tailored for FVSSs with time delay. Lastly, we compare two numerical simulations of the FVSS, one with time delay and one without, to demonstrate the accuracy, effectiveness, and applicability of the proposed method presented in our paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely used in the mobile electronics, power, energy storage and other fields due to their excellent electrochemical performance, but their limited service life has resulted in a large number of spent LIBs being discarded. Due to the advantages of high recovery efficiency and mild reaction conditions, the combined pyro-hydrometallurgical process for recovering valuable metal elements from spent LIBs is emerging in line with the principles of green chemistry and has potential for large-scale industrial applications. Here we review current developments in the combined recovery process, aiming to figure out the challenges and future directions for the combined process. In detail, thermal pretreatment methods for collecting the cathode material from spent LIBs, the combined recovery process for treating the cathode material, and the subsequent separation and extraction process are summarized. Furthermore, the practical application of combined recycling schemes is demonstrated. Finally, the development and challenges of the combined process in recycling spent LIBs are revealed. Achieving pollution-free emissions and high-value utilization of spent LIB resources with low-cost treatment are future directions for the combined process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To investigate the safety and effectiveness of cryo-balloon pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) combined procedure and half-dose rivaroxaban after operation in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).Patients and Methods: A total of 203 AF patients presented for cryo-balloon PVI, and LAAC combined procedure was included from 2019 to 2021. Postoperative patients were anticoagulated with rivaroxaban with/without clopidogrel for 60 days, with oral rivaroxaban of 10 mg in the elderly group and 20 mg in the non-elderly group. Patients with AF ≥ 80 and < 80 years were considered elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively. Scheduled follow-ups and transesophageal echocardiography were used to assess peri- and post-procedural safety and effectiveness.Results: A total of 203 patients underwent the combined procedure, 83 in the elderly and 120 in the non-elderly groups. All patients successfully obtained PVI and satisfactory LAAC. During the perioperative period, one patient had puncture complications in the elderly group and one with thrombosis in the non-elderly group. Oral rivaroxaban was administered to 83.2% and 75% of patients in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively, and rivaroxaban was combined with clopidogrel anticoagulation in the remaining patients. The annual rates of composite clinical events were 8.4% and 9.2% in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively, with no statistically significant difference. Patients in both groups had complete sealing, and there was no displacement of devices, death and peripheral arterial thrombosis. Recurrence of AF occurred in 25 and 32 patients in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively, with no statistically significant difference. Besides, the two groups had no statistically significant difference in cerebral infarction/transient ischemic attack and device-related thrombosis (p > 0.05).Conclusion: This study suggests that cryo-balloon PVI and LAAC combined procedure and half-dose rivaroxaban after the operation is safe and effective in treating elderly patients with AF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium‐ion hybrid capacitors (PIHCs) overcome the limitations of potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) and supercapacitors (SCs) and integrate the advantages of both, including high energy density, high power density, low cost, long cycle life, and stable electrochemical performance. However, the development of PIHCs is hindered by thermodynamic instability and kinetic hysteresis. Additionally, the dynamic mismatch between anode and cathode materials poses an urgent challenge. To this end, many research works related to material development have been dedicated to overcoming the drawbacks. In this review, the energy storage mechanism of PIHCs is briefly introduced. Moreover, the research progress and achievements of anode and cathode materials in recent years are reviewed, including carbon‐based materials, MXenes, transition metal materials, Prussian blue and its analogues. Finally, the challenges and prospects of PIHCs are proposed, together with guiding significant research directions in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium‐metal batteries are regarded as the "Holy Grail" of next‐generation batteries. However, lithium dendrite and anode volume expansion in cycles seriously hinders lithium‐metal battery applications. Herein, we propose a precise and efficient strategy for stabilizing lithium‐metal batteries via a lithiophilic Ag‐modified Cu current host (Li@CuM/Ag). By applying the magnetron sputtering method, the lithiophilic silver layer can be anchored homogeneously on the Cu mesh. The lithiophilic silver layer effectively guides uniform Li deposition in the 3D host and realizes spatial control over Li nucleation. In addition, a dendrite‐free lithium anode is successfully realized, which has been proven by in situ optical dynamic tests and Li deposition simulations. The symmetrical cell can maintain a low overpotential (230 mV) and long cycle life (90 h) at a large current of 10 mA cm−2 for a plating amount of 3 mAh cm−2. Furthermore, Li@CuM/Ag||LiCoO2 cells exhibited a high‐capacity retention rate (86.39%) after 150 cycles at 2 C. Lithiophilic hosts based on magnetron sputtering provide a feasible strategy for applications of lithium‐metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium metal batteries are emerging as a strong candidate in the future energy storage market due to its extremely high energy density. However, the uncontrollable lithium dendrites and volume change of lithium metal anodes severely hinder its application. In this work, the porous Cu skeleton modified with Cu6Sn5 layer is prepared via dealloying brass foil following a facile electroless process. The porous Cu skeleton with large specific surface area and high electronic conductivity effectively reduces the local current density. The Cu6Sn5 can react with lithium during the discharge process to form lithiophilic Li7Sn2 in situ to promote Li‐ions transport and reduce the nucleation energy barrier of lithium to guide the uniform lithium deposition. Therefore, more than 300 cycles at 1 mA cm−2 are achieved in the half‐cell with an average Coulombic efficiency of 97.5%. The symmetric cell shows a superior cycle life of more than 1000 h at 1 mA cm−2 with a small average hysteresis voltage of 16 mV. When coupled with LiFePO4 cathode, the full cell also maintains excellent cycling and rate performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sonication is very efficacious for the microbiological diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), but it involves many steps and multiple workplaces and personnel and therefore carries a potential contamination risk. We present an innovative version of the sonication culture method that involves direct sonication of the retrieved implant and soft tissue, without a sonication tube, intraoperatively and incubation using a BACT/ALERT 3D blood culture system to enhance the efficacy of microbiological diagnosis of PJI. Methods: We performed a prospective study of consecutive patients requiring implant removal and classified them as having PJI or aseptic failure according to standard criteria. The removed prosthetic components and adjacent soft tissue were directly sonicated in a small metal container, without a sonication tube, during the operation. The sonication fluid was immediately incubated in blood culture bottles in the operating room and cultured in the BACT/ALERT 3D blood culture system. The synovial fluid was also cultured in the BACT/ALERT 3D system to serve as a comparison. Results: Of the 64 included patients, 36 had PJI and 28 had aseptic failure. Fluid from direct sonication and conventional synovial fluid showed sensitivities of 91.7% and 55.6% (p < 0.001) and specificities of 82.1% and 92.9%, respectively. Fourteen cases of PJI were detected by culture of fluid from direct sonication but not by culture of synovial fluid. Higher sensitivity was obtained by direct sonication of only tissue than by direct sonication of only the implant (88.9% versus 75.0%). No significant difference in detection time was found between Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. Conclusions: When combined with incubation in BACT/ALERT bottles, direct intraoperative sonication of implants and soft tissues without a sonication tube was more sensitive than conventional synovial fluid culture and could reliably and rapidly detect the bacteria commonly found in PJI. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-dimensional covalent organic framework (NTCDI-COF) with rich redox active sites, high stability and crystallinity was designed and prepared. As a cathode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), NTCDI-COF exhibits excellent electrochemical performance with an outstanding discharge capacity of 210 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and high capacity retention of 125 mA h g−1 after 1500 cycles at 2 A g−1. A two-step Li+ insertion/extraction mechanism is proposed based on the ex situ characterization and density functional theory calculation. The constructed NTCDI-COF//graphite full cells can realize a good electrochemical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosion at the taper/trunnion interface of total hip replacement (THR) often results in severe complications. However, the underlying mechanisms of biotribocorrosion at the taper/trunnion interface during the long-term walking gait cycles remain to be fully understood. In this study, a hip joint simulator was therefore instrumented with an electrochemical cell for in-situ monitoring of the tribocorrosion evolution in a metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) THR during a typical long-term walking gait. In addition, the biotribocorrosion mechanism was investigated via surface and chemical characterizations. The experimental results confirmed that the taper/trunnion interface dominated the contemporary MoP hip joint corrosion. Three cyclic variations in the open circuit potential (OCP) were observed throughout the long-term electrochemical measurements, attributed to the formation and disruption of the adsorbed protein layer. The corrosion exhibited an initial increase at each period, peaking at approximately 0.125 million cycles, followed by a subsequent gradual reduction. Surface and chemical analyses revealed the formation of a tribochemical reaction layer (tribolayer) on the worn surface of the taper/trunnion interface. The surface/chemical characterizations and the electrochemical measurements indicated that the adhesion force of the adsorbed protein layer was weaker than that of the tribolayer. In contrast, the opposite was true for the corrosion resistance. Based on the observations from this study, the tribocorrosion mechanism of the taper/trunnion interface under the long-term walking gait cycles is deduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental studies have confirmed the permeability reduction of coal samples upon the adsorption of CO2. However, these studies were carried out under limited experimental conditions. In this study, CO2 flow behaviors in a macro-scale coal sample were numerically simulated using a coupled gas flow, mechanical deformation, and sorption-induced deformation finite element model. The simulation results show that the effect of the reduction of effective stress on the enhancement of permeability is greater than the negative effect of permeability reduction due to CO2 adsorption for low injection pressures. CO2 pressure development in the sample increases with increasing injection pressure due to the enhanced advection flux for sub-critical CO2 injections, while for super-critical CO2 injections, CO2 pressure development, as well as concentrations in the sample, decreases compared to sub-critical CO2 injections because of greater density and viscosity of super-critical CO2 as well as coal matrix swelling induced by the adsorption of super-critical CO2. Increasing axial stress (buried depth) obstructs CO2 migration in the sample due to the increased effective stress, and this effect is more influential for low injection pressures, which indicates that high CO2 injection pressures are preferred for CO2 sequestration in deep coal seams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rechargeable zinc‐ion batteries with mild aqueous electrolytes are one of the most promising systems for large‐scale energy storage as a result of their inherent safety, low cost, environmental‐friendliness, and acceptable energy density. However, zinc metal anodes always suffer from unwanted dendrite growth, leading to low Coulombic efficiency and poor cycle stability and during the repeated plating/stripping processes, which substantially restrict their further development and application. To solve these critical issues, a lot of research works have been dedicated to overcoming the drawbacks associated with zinc metal anodes. In this overview, the working mechanisms and existing issues of the zinc metal anodes are first briefly outlined. Moreover, we look into the ongoing processes of the different strategies for achieving highly stable and dendrite‐free zinc metal anodes, including crystal engineering, structural engineering, coating engineering, electrolyte engineering, and separator engineering. Finally, some challenges being faced and prospects in this field are provided, together with guiding significant research directions in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: By selecting 4-methylbiphenyl as an anion ligand and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran as a solvent, the as-prepared micro-sized SiO/C anode can achieve an initial Coulombic efficiency of ~100%. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate that the ideal prelithiation efficiency can be achieved by choosing appropriate anion ligand and solvent to regulate the solvation structure of Li+. The positive effect of pre-lithiation on cycle performance has been verified by using an in-situ electrochemical dilatometry and solid electrolyte interphase film. The solvation structure of Li+ in chemical prelithiation reagent plays a key role in improving the low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) and poor cycle performance of silicon-based materials. Nevertheless, the chemical prelithiation agent is difficult to dope active Li+ in silicon-based anodes because of their low working voltage and sluggish Li+ diffusion rate. By selecting the lithium–arene complex reagent with 4-methylbiphenyl as an anion ligand and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran as a solvent, the as-prepared micro-sized SiO/C anode can achieve an ICE of nearly 100%. Interestingly, the best prelithium efficiency does not correspond to the lowest redox half-potential (E1/2), and the prelithiation efficiency is determined by the specific influencing factors (E1/2, Li+ concentration, desolvation energy, and ion diffusion path). In addition, molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate that the ideal prelithiation efficiency can be achieved by choosing appropriate anion ligand and solvent to regulate the solvation structure of Li+. Furthermore, the positive effect of prelithiation on cycle performance has been verified by using an in-situ electrochemical dilatometry and solid electrolyte interphase film characterizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Morphine plays an important role in postoperative analgesia after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, there are limited data that investigate the administration ways of morphine. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding morphine to periarticular infiltration analgesia (PIA) combined with single‐dose epidural morphine for the patients undergoing TKA. Methods: In total, 120 patients with knee osteoarthritis who underwent the primary TKA from April 2021 and March 2022 were randomized into three groups (a cocktail containing morphine with single‐dose epidural morphine [Group A]; a cocktail containing morphine [Group B]; and a cocktail free of morphine [Group C]). The three groups were compared based on the Visual Analog Score at rest and during motion, requirement of tramadol, functional recovery including quadriceps strength and range of motion, and adverse events including nausea and vomiting and local and systemic adverse events. The repetitive measure analysis of variance and chi‐square test among three groups were used to analyze the results. Results: Analgesia strategy in Group A (0.4 ± 0.8, and 0.9 ± 1.0 points, respectively) significantly reduced rest pain at 6 and 12 h after surgery relative to Group B (1.6 ± 1.2, and 2.2 ± 1.4 points, respectively) (p < 0.001), and the analgesic effect of Group B was stronger than that of Group C (2.1 ± 0.9, and 2.6 ± 0.9 points, respectively) (p < 0.05). Rest pain at 24 h after surgery was significantly lower in Group A (2.5 ± 0.8 points) and B (1.9 ± 1.0 points) than in Group C (2.5 ± 0.8) (p < 0.05). Within 24 h after surgery, the requirements for tramadol in Group A (0.25 g) and Group B (0.35 g) were significantly lower than those in Group C (0.75 g) (p < 0.05). Within 4 days of surgery, the quadriceps strength in the three groups increased gradually, and no statistical significance was noted among the three groups (p > 0.05). From the second day to the fourth day after surgery, although the three groups showed no statistical difference in the range of motion, the result of Group C was inferior to that of the other two groups. There were no significant differences in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and metoclopramide consumption among the three groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: PIA combined with single‐dose epidural morphine effectively reduces early postoperative pain and tramadol requirement as well as few complications, which can become a safe and effective measure to improve postoperative pain after TKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fretting corrosion as one of the leading causes for failure of modular hip prostheses has been associated with micromotion at head-neck taper junction. Decomposition of micromotion is helpful to promote the development of more realistic experiments investigating failure mechanisms of the head-neck junction in total hip arthroplasty. The aim of this study was to decompose the complex three-dimensional micromotion at the head-neck junction into multiple fundamental modes, including three translational and three rotational components. A three-dimensional finite element model composed of head-neck junction, liner and acetabular cup with a typical 12/14 taper size, as well as the taper mismatch of −4', was developed during walking. The analysis was divided into three procedures: a) the assembly simulation of the head and neck during surgery, b) verification with a simplified axisymmetric model, and c) three-dimensional modelling under normal walking. This study revealed that the main forms of micromotion contained circumferential, longitudinal micromotion and longitudinal rolling toggling, and were closely related to the state of motion. The maximum translational micromotion was predicted to be 10.9 μm during the walking gait, with the predominant modes of the circumferential translation of 9.6 μm, the longitudinal translation of 5.5 μm and the longitudinal rotation of 0.29° along the taper junction. These findings may provide design considerations for further experimental testing about fretting and facilitate the understanding of the fretting mechanisms in hip prostheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays an important role in the occurrence and development of various liver diseases. However, there are no effective prevention and treatment strategies. We aimed to determine the role of heat shock factor 2 binding protein (HSF2BP) in ER stress. Methods: HSF2BP expression in mice and cultured hepatocytes was measured during ER stress induced by tunicamycin, and its importance in ER stress was evaluated in hepatocyte-specific HSF2BP transgenic (TG) and knockout (KO) mice. The effects and mechanisms of HSF2BP on ER stress were further probed in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Results: HSF2BP expression was significantly upregulated during tunicamycin-induced ER stress in mice and cultured hepatocytes. Liver injury and ER stress were reduced in HSF2BP overexpressing mice after treating with tunicamycin, but were aggravated in HSF2BP knockout mice compared to the controls. In hepatic I/R injury, HSF2BP expression was significantly upregulated, and HSF2BP overexpressing mice had reduced liver injury and inflammation. These improvements were associated with ER stress inhibition. However, these results were reversed in hepatocyte-specific HSF2BP knockout mice. HSF2BP overexpression increased cytoplasmic CDC73 levels and inhibited the JNK signaling pathway. CDC73 knockdown using siRNA eliminated the protection exerted by HSF2BP overexpression in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced ER stress in hepatocytes. Conclusion: HSF2BP is a previously uncharacterized regulatory factor in ER stress-likely acts by regulating CDC73 subcellular localization. The feasibility of HSF2BP-targeted treatment in ER stress-related liver disease deserves future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]