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The development of sustainable, safe, low-cost, high energy and density power-density energy storage devices is most needed to electrify our modern needs to reach a carbon-neutral society by ~2050. Batteries are the backbones of future sustainable energy sources for both stationary off-grid and mobile plug-in electric vehicle applications. Biomass-derived carbon materials are extensively researched as efficient and sustainable electrode/anode candidates for lithium/sodium-ion chemistries due to their well-developed tailored textures (closed pores and defects) and large microcrystalline interlayer spacing and therefore opens-up their potential applications in sustainable potassium and aluminum batteries. The main purpose of this perspective is to brief the use of biomass residues for the preparation of carbon electrodes for potassium and aluminum batteries annexed to the biomass-derived carbon physicochemical structures and their aligned electrochemical properties. In addition, we presented an outlook as well as some challenges faced in this promising area of research. We believe that this review enlightens the readers with useful insights and a reasonable understanding of issues and challenges faced in the preparation, physicochemical properties and application of biomass-derived carbon materials as anodes and cathode candidates for potassium and aluminum batteries, respectively. In addition, this review can further help material scientists to seek out novel electrode materials from different types of biomasses, which opens up new avenues in the fabrication/development of next-generation sustainable and high-energy density batteries.

The present work elucidates facile one-pot synthesis from biomass forestry waste (Norway spruce bark) and its chemical activation yielding high specific surface area ( S BET ) biochars as efficient lithium- and sodium-ion storage anodes. The chemically activated biochar using ZnCl 2 (Biochar-1) produced a highly mesoporous carbon containing 96.1% mesopores in its structure as compared to only 56.1% mesoporosity from KOH-activated biochars (Biochar-2). The latter exhibited a lower degree of graphitization with disordered and defective carbon structures, while the former presented more formation of ordered graphite sheets in its structure as analyzed from Raman spectra. In addition, both biochars presented a high degree of functionalities on their surfaces but Biochar-1 presented a pyridinic-nitrogen group, which helps improve its electrochemical response. When tested electrochemically, Biochar-1 showed an excellent rate capability and the longest capacity retentions of 370 mA h g -1 at 100 mA g -1 (100 cycles), 332.4 mA h g -1 at 500 mA g -1 (1000 cycles), and 319 mA h g -1 at 1000 mA g -1 after 5000 cycles, rendering as an alternative biomass anode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Moreover, as a negative electrode in sodium-ion batteries, Biochar-1 delivered discharge capacities of 147.7 mA h g -1 at 50 mA g -1 (140 cycles) and 126 mA h g -1 at 100 mA g -1 after 440 cycles., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing financial interest., (© 2022 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society.)

Aims: The pharmacokinetic (PK) similarity between MB02, a proposed bevacizumab biosimilar, and reference bevacizumab approved from the USA (US-bevacizumab) and European Union (EU-bevacizumab) was evaluated. Safety and immunogenicity were also assessed., Methods: In this phase 1, randomized, double blind, single dose, parallel group study, 114 healthy male volunteers were randomized 1:1:1 to receive a 3 mg/kg intravenous dose of MB02, US-bevacizumab or EU-bevacizumab, and evaluated for 100 days. PK similarity between MB02 and reference bevacizumab was determined using the standard bioequivalence criteria (0.80-1.25) for the area under the serum concentration-time curve from time 0 extrapolated to infinity (AUC (0-∞) ) and the maximum observed serum concentration (C max )., Results: Baseline demographics were similar across treatment groups. All study drugs exhibited similar PK profile. The 90% confidence interval for the geometric lead square means ratios for the primary parameters AUC (0-∞) and C max for MB02, US-bevacizumab and EU-bevacizumab were fully contained within the pre-defined bioequivalence limits for the 3 pairwise comparisons: AUC (0-∞) (MB02:US-bevacizumab 0.998 [0.944 to 1.05]; MB02:EU-bevacizumab 1.07 [1.00 to 1.14]; and US-bevacizumab:EU-bevacizumab 0.934 [0.884 to 0.988]) and C max (MB02:US-bevacizumab 0.983 [0.897 to 1.08]; MB02:EU-bevacizumab 1.06 [0.976 to 1.16]; and; US-bevacizumab: EU-bevacizumab 0.926 [0.851 to 1.01]). Treatment emergent adverse events were reported in 87 subjects (76.3%), most being mild and with comparable incidence among treatment groups. Thirty-three subjects (28.9%) reported 56 possibly related treatment emergent adverse events with comparable incidence across treatments, the most frequent being headache (10.5%) and fatigue (3.5%). Anti-drug antibody incidence was low and similar between treatment groups., Conclusions: This study demonstrates the PK similarity and bioequivalence of MB02 to the reference bevacizumab, whether approved from USA or EU. The safety and immunogenicity profile of MB02 was shown also to be similar to the bevacizumab reference product (NCT04238663)., (© 2021 The Authors. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Pharmacological Society.)

Detection of ethanol gas quickly and efficiently at room temperature is crucial for ensuring environmental, human as well as industrial safety. In this work, we have demonstrated a chemiresistive room temperature ethanol gas sensor based on vertically aligned tin sulfide (SnS) nanoplates. X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis have revealed the formation of orthorhombic, vertically aligned SnS nanoplates with high specific surface area. The sensor has been fabricated by depositing the SnS powder sample on ITO sheets using electrophoretic deposition (EPD), followed by the deposition of silver (Ag) electrodes using the thermal evaporation technique. The sensor obtained has exhibited a response value (R g/ R a) of 17.4–400 ppm ethanol gas concentration, a quick response, and a recovery time of 12.4 s and 20.2 s at room temperature. The sensor has demonstrated long-term stability of 15 min, impressive selectivity, and remarkable repeatability across three successive test cycles of ethanol gas at 400 ppm. Based on the experimental sensing results, a plausible mechanism has been proposed for the sensor. The sensing response of SnS-based sensor at room temperature expands its potential for innovative applications across industries, marking a significant advancement in sensing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of titanium and lithium phosphates was studied using the sol-gel method. Particular attention was paid to phosphate precursors, which were mixtures of phosphate mono- and diesters prepared by solvolysis of P4O10 in isopropanol. The reaction of these precursors with titanium and lithium alkoxides yielded homogeneous gels and after drying and thermal cleavage of the esters at 300 °C, amorphous inorganic products. For the composition corresponding to the stoichiometric formula of a stable compound such as LiTi2(PO4)3, the phase crystallized as early as 550 °C by nucleation from the amorphous mixture. Ionic conductivity measured at room temperature was of the order of 10−5 S·cm−1 which increased after heat treatment at higher temperatures. If the composition did not correspond to a stable thermodynamic phase, phase separation occurred, and ionic conductivity decreased between 500 °C and 700 °C. Highlights: Lithium solid electrolyte LiTi2(PO4)3 was synthesized by sol-gel reaction. Control of the reaction was performed by thermal cleavage of phosphate esters. Same method was used to screen new lithium-titanium-phosphate compositions. Lithium-ion conductivity was measured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new hybrid material was created by blending sodium titanate ceramics (Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13) with a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix, resulting in enhanced semiconductive characteristics. The synthesis process involved intense ultrasonic treatment and subsequent heat treatment at 900 °C. Utilizing a solvent casting method, Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13/PVA composites were fabricated. Raman spectra confirmed the presence of PVA chains and distinctive bands of sodium titanates. Elemental analysis verified the existence of Na and Ti in both composites. Morphological observations revealed the formation of irregular agglomerates upon introducing sodium titanates into the PVA structure, leading to a rise in the average surface roughness (Ra) from ~ 1.5 to 7.9 nm post-incorporation of heated Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13. Differences in morphology between samples loaded with unheated and heated Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13 suggested a more effective particle incorporation into the polymeric matrix after heat treatment. Electrical measurements indicated that the composite loaded with unheated Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13 exhibited the lowest electrical resistance (105 Ω) and a relaxation time of 3.16 × 10− 5 s. These results demonstrate that the inclusion of sodium titanate ceramics enhances the semiconductive properties of the PVA matrix. This finding highlights the potential of this material for various electronic applications, including components for solid-state batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In energy applications, the use of materials with hierarchical porous structures and large surface areas is essential for efficient charge storage. These structures facilitate rapid electron and ion transport, resulting in high power density and quick charge/discharge capabilities. Carbon-based materials are extensively utilized due to their tunable properties, including pore sizes ranging from ultra- to macropores and surface polarity. Incorporating heteroatoms such as nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, phosphorus, and boron modifies the carbon structure, enhancing electrocatalytic properties and overall performance. A hierarchical pore structure is necessary for optimal performance, as it ensures efficient access to the material's core. The microstructure of carbon materials significantly impacts energy storage, with factors like polyaromatic condensation, crystallite structure, and interlayer distance playing crucial roles. Carbon aerogels, derived from the carbonization of organic gels, feature a sponge-like structure with large surface area and high porosity, making them suitable for energy storage. Their open pore structure supports fast ion transfer, leading to high energy and power densities. Challenges include maintaining mechanical or structural integrity, multifunctional features, and scalability. This review provides an overview of the current progress in carbon-based aerogels for energy applications, discussing their properties, development strategies, and limitations, and offering significant guidance for future research requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), TiO2 or sodium titanates are discussed as cost-effective anode material. The use of ultrafine TiO2 particles overcomes the effect of intrinsically low electronic and ionic conductivity that otherwise limits the electrochemical performance and thus its Na-ion storage capacity. Especially, TiO2 nanoparticles integrated in a highly conductive, large surface-area, and stable graphene matrix can achieve an exceptional electrochemical rate performance, durability, and increase in capacity. We report the direct and scalable gas-phase synthesis of TiO2 and graphene and their subsequent self-assembly to produce TiO2/graphene nanocomposites (TiO2/Gr). Transmission electron microscopy shows that the TiO2 nanoparticles are uniformly distributed on the surface of the graphene nanosheets. TiO2/Gr nanocomposites with graphene loadings of 20 and 30 wt% were tested as anode in SIBs. With the outstanding electronic conductivity enhancement and a synergistic Na-ion storage effect at the interface of TiO2 nanoparticles and graphene, nanocomposites with 30 wt% graphene exhibited particularly good electrochemical performance with a reversible capacity of 281 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, compared to pristine TiO2 nanoparticles (155 mAh g−1). Moreover, the composite showed excellent high-rate performance of 158 mAh g−1 at 20 C and a reversible capacity of 154 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 10 C. Cyclic voltammetry showed that the Na-ion storage is dominated by surface and TiO2/Gr interface processes rather than slow, diffusion-controlled intercalation, explaining its outstanding rate performance. The synthesis route of these high-performing nanocomposites provides a highly promising strategy for the scalable production of advanced nanomaterials for SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern research has made the search for high-performance, sustainable, and efficient energy storage technologies a main focus, especially in light of the growing environmental and energy-demanding issues. This review paper focuses on the pivotal role of biomass-derived carbon (BDC) materials in the development of high-performance metal-ion hybrid supercapacitors (MIHSCs), specifically targeting sodium (Na)-, potassium (K)-, aluminium (Al)-, and zinc (Zn)-ion-based systems. Due to their widespread availability, renewable nature, and exceptional physicochemical properties, BDC materials are ideal for supercapacitor electrodes, which perfectly balance environmental sustainability and technological advancement. This paper delves into the synthesis, functionalization, and structural engineering of advanced biomass-based carbon materials, highlighting the strategies to enhance their electrochemical performance. It elaborates on the unique characteristics of these carbons, such as high specific surface area, tuneable porosity, and heteroatom doping, which are pivotal in achieving superior capacitance, energy density, and cycling stability in Na-, K-, Al-, and Zn-ion hybrid supercapacitors. Furthermore, the compatibility of BDCs with metal-ion electrolytes and their role in facilitating ion transport and charge storage mechanisms are critically analysed. Novelty arises from a comprehensive comparison of these carbon materials across metal-ion systems, unveiling the synergistic effects of BDCs' structural attributes on the performance of each supercapacitor type. This review also casts light on the current challenges, such as scalability, cost-effectiveness, and performance consistency, offering insightful perspectives for future research. This review underscores the transformative potential of BDC materials in MIHSCs and paves the way for next-generation energy storage technologies that are both high-performing and ecologically friendly. It calls for continued innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to explore these sustainable materials, thereby contributing to advancing green energy technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li1+xTi2−xYbx(PO4)3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.3) materials were prepared via a conventional solid-state reaction and characterised via powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The substitution of Ti4+ by Yb3+ in LiTi2(PO4)3 increases unit cell parameters and the amount of lithium in NASICON phase (S.G. R 3 ¯ c), but its incorporation is limited to 0.24/formula. The partial substitution of titanium by ytterbium enlarges diffusion channels and increases Li+ ion mobility in Li1+xTi2−xYbx(PO4)3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.3) series. Li–Li repulsion favours the allocation of lithium at M3 (0.07, 0.34, 0.07) at the expense of M1 (0,0,0) sites in the NASICON structure, increasing Li+ ion conductivity. The presence of paramagnetic Yb3+ ions causes severe broadening of NMR signals which precludes structural analyses. Among the investigated samples, Li1.2Ti1.8Yb0.2(PO4)3 showed the best "bulk" conductivity (1.98 × 10−3 S.cm−1 at room temperature) and a lower activation energy (Ea = 0.29 eV). The increment of ceramic pellet density decreased the grain-boundary resistance, improving transport properties. In particular, the "overall" conductivity at room temperature increased from 1.18 × 10−7 (Ea = 0.45 eV) in LiTi2(PO4)3 to 1.01 × 10−5 S.cm−1 (Ea = 0.33 eV) in Li1.2Ti1.8Yb0.2(PO4)3. The stability of NASICON phases and the small amount of secondary phases make x = 0.2 sample a good candidate for solid electrolytes in all solid-state batteries (ASSBs). In these samples, "overall" conductivity is conditioned by "core–shell" structures, where external shells are enriched in Yb and Li ions. Above x = 0.2, the formation of secondary YbPO4 and LiTiPO5 phases at the NASICON particle surface decreased "overall" conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro-nanostructured electrode materials are characterized by excellent performance in various secondary batteries. In this study, a facile and green hydrothermal method was developed to prepare amorphous vanadium-based microspheres on a large scale. Hollow V2O5 microspheres were achieved, with controllable size, after the calcination of amorphous vanadium-based microspheres and were used as cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries. As the quantity of V2O5 microspheres increased, the electrode performance improved, which was ascribed to the smaller charge transfer impedance. The discharge capacity of hollow V2O5 microspheres could be up to 196.4 mAhg−1 at a current density of 50 mAg−1 between 2.0 and 3.5 V voltage limits. This sheds light on the synthesis and application of spherical electrode materials for energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their high specific capacity and long cycle life, bimetallic sulfides are the preferred choice of researchers as anodes in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). However, studies indicate that this class of materials often requires expensive elements such as Co, Sb, Sn, etc., and their performance is insufficient with the use of inexpensive Fe, V alone. Therefore, there is a need to explore the relationship between metal cations and anode performance so that the requirements of cost reduction and performance enhancement can be met simultaneously. In this work, a series of partially replaced sulfides with different cation ratios have been prepared by a hydrothermal method followed by heat treatment. By partially replacing Co in NiCo sulfides, all samples show improved capacity and stability over the original NiCo sulfides. As a result, the metal elements have different oxidation states, which leads to a higher capacity through their synergistic effects on each other. Mn-NiCoS with 10% replacement showed satisfactory capacity (721.09 mAh g−1 at 300 mA g−1, 662.58 mAh g−1 after 20 cycles) and excellent cycle life (85.41% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 2000 mA g−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dissolution of manganese and its deposition on the anode surface cause poor cycling stability in lithium-ion batteries. To alleviate these issues, this study probes the electrochemical activity of highly crystalline and cation-adjusted lithium manganese oxide (LMO) carbon spinel composite obtained via a modified sol-gel synthesis procedure. The pristine LMO cathode was functionalized with a Fe and Mg alloy and fused with purified multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to form a catalytically stabilized LiMn1.98Fe0.01Mg0.01O4/MWCNT (LMO-FeMg/MWCNT) framework. High-resolution SEM analysis showed well-dispersed particles in the nanometer size range. The electrochemical characteristics of the novel composite materials yielded favourable electrochemical results with diffusion coefficients of 1.91 × 10−9 cm2·s−1 and 5.83 × 10−10 cm2·s−1 for LMO-FeMg and LMO-FeMg/MWCNT, respectively. This improvement was supported by impedance studies which showed a considerable R ct reduction of 0.27 Ω and 0.71 Ω. The cation stabilized system outperformed the pristine LMO material with specific capacities around 145 mAh·g−1, due to an enhancement in electrochemical activity and structural stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Numerous studies have explored factors impacting osteoarthritis (OA), but its relationship with height remains uncertain. This study investigates the relationship between height and osteoarthritis risk in South Korea. Methods: Participants aged 50 or older who underwent health screenings in 2009 were selected from the National Health Insurance System database. A total of 1,138,904 subjects were divided into height quartiles (Q1–Q4) based on age and gender. Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess knee osteoarthritis incidence risk, with the shortest quartile (Q1) as the reference. Results: After adjusting for age, sex, income, smoking, drinking, exercise, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and body mass index (BMI), no significant difference in OA incidence risk based on height was observed. However, when adjusted for weight instead of BMI, we observed a gradual decrease in hazard ratio with increasing height. The hazard ratio for the tallest group was 0.787 (95% CI, 0.781~0.795). Similar results were obtained in all subgroups. Conclusions: Compared to previous studies, our findings present a clear distinction. Therefore, there may be racial differences in the association between height and knee OA risk, and our study provides evidence that, in East Asian populations, taller individuals have a reduced risk of knee OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation into intercalation mechanisms in vanadium pentoxide has garnered significant attention within the realm of research, primarily propelled by its remarkable theoretical capacity for energy storage. This comprehensive review delves into the latest advancements that have enriched our understanding of these intricate mechanisms. Notwithstanding its exceptional storage capacity, the compound grapples with challenges arising from inherent structural instability. Researchers are actively exploring avenues for improving electrodes, with a focus on innovative structures and the meticulous fine-tuning of particle properties. Within the scope of this review, we engage in a detailed discussion on the mechanistic intricacies involved in ion intercalation within the framework of vanadium pentoxide. Additionally, we explore recent breakthroughs in understanding its intercalation properties, aiming to refine the material's structure and morphology. These refinements are anticipated to pave the way for significantly enhanced performance in various energy storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of lithium (Li) metal batteries has been severely limited by the formation of lithium dendrites and the associated catastrophic failure and inferior Coulombic efficiency which caused by non‐uniform or insufficient Li+ supply across the electrode–electrolyte interface. Therefore, a rational strategy is to construct a robust electrolyte that can allow efficient and uniform Li+ transport to ensure sufficient Li+ supply and homogenize the Li plating/stripping. Herein, we report an ion‐percolating electrolyte membrane that acts as a stable Li+ reservoir to ensure a near‐single Li+ transference number (0.78) and homogenizes Li+ migration to eradicate dendrite growth, endowing Li//LFP cell with an ultrahigh average Coulombic efficiency (ca. 99.97%) after cycling for nearly half of a year and superior cycling stability when pairing with LiCoO2 with limited Li amount and LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2. These estimable attributes demonstrate significant potential of utility value for the ion‐percolating electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study focuses on the production of biochars derived from aquatic plants, specifically red seaweed Ahnfeltia and seagrass Zostera and Ruppia, found in brackish lagoons in the Sea of Okhotsk, Sakhalin Island. These biochars were obtained through a stepwise pyrolysis process conducted at temperatures of 500 and 700 °C. The characteristics of the biochars, including their elemental composition, specific surface area, and particle size distribution, were found to be influenced by both the type of biomass used and the pyrolysis temperature. The primary objective of this research was to investigate the potential of these biochars to be used as negative electrodes for lithium ion batteries. Among the various samples we tested, the biochar derived from the macroalgae Ahnfeltia tobuchiensis, produced at 700 °C, exhibited the highest carbon content (70 at%) and nitrogen content (>5 at%). The reversible capacity of this particular biochar was measured to be 391 mAh g−1 during the initial cycles and remained relatively stable at around 300 mAh g−1 after 25 cycles. These findings suggest that biochars derived from aquatic plants have the potential to be utilized as effective electrode materials in lithium ion batteries. The specific properties of the biochar, such as its elemental composition and surface area, play a significant role in determining its electrochemical performance. Further research and optimization of the pyrolysis conditions may lead to the development of biochar-based electrodes with improved capacity and cycling stability, thereby contributing to the advancement of sustainable and environmentally friendly energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to add robustness and provide further evidence on the bioequivalence, safety and immunogenicity between MB02 and reference bevacizumab. No similar study has been performed before with a biosimilar monoclonal antibody. Methods: Population analysis by pooling data from three independent pharmacokinetic (PK) studies was performed. The studies had a single‐dose, double‐blind, three‐arm, parallel‐group design and two studies, MB02‐A‐02‐17 and MB02‐A‐05‐18, compared MB02 to EU‐ and US‐bevacizumab in Caucasian subjects, while study MB02‐A‐04‐18 compared MB02 and EU‐bevacizumab in Japanese participants. Primary endpoints included maximum observed serum concentration (Cmax), area under the serum concentration–time curve (AUC) from time zero and extrapolated to infinity (AUC0–∞) and AUC from time zero to the time of last quantifiable concentration (AUC0–t). Secondary endpoints included other PK parameters, safety and immunogenicity. A sensitivity analysis using actual protein concentration as a correction factor was applied to primary PK parameters. Results: Point estimates and 90% confidence intervals for the geometric mean ratios of primary PK parameters for MB02, EU‐ and US‐bevacizumab were all contained within the predefined bioequivalence margins (80%–125%) for all pairwise comparisons. The same results for all pairwise comparisons were observed when protein‐corrected primary PK parameters were analyzed. Safety and immunogenicity were similar between MB02 and the EU‐ and US‐reference bevacizumab in healthy subjects. Conclusions: This pooled analysis of three comparable PK studies further supports the bioequivalence of biosimilar MB02 to EU‐ and US‐reference bevacizumab. No clinically meaningful differences in safety or immunogenicity were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we study the influence of the temperature on the mechanism of current transfer in the reverse branch of the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of n-CdS/p-CdTe heterostructures. The study of the heterostructure, using the technique of on energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, showed that a layer of CdSxTe 1 − x is formed at the boundary of the heterojunction with a varying composition, being equal x ≈ 0. 4 8 from the side of CdS and x ≈ 0. 0 2 from the CdTe side. In the studied range of the temperatures and bias voltage, the current-voltage characteristics are described well by a power law J = A V α , where the exponent α changes with the temperature and voltage. Under the influence of the temperature and charge carrier concentration, the mechanism of current transfer in the structure changes from exclusion (α ≈ 0. 5) to ohmic (α ≈ 1), and then goes to injection (α ≈ 2). The inhomogeneous intermediate CdSxTe 1 − x i-layer at the boundary of the n-CdS/p-CdTe heterostructure is characterized by the presence of metastable states that rearrange at high temperatures and certain charge carrier concentrations. As a result of this, the exclusion slows down and electrons are injected from the rear molybdenum contact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is caused by a complex set of pathophysiological factors. The genetic factors involved in the occurrence and progress of the disease have been widely discussed by scholars. It was found that growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) gene polymorphisms may be linked to OA susceptibility, which has been controversial and needs to be further confirmed by an updated meta-analysis. Objectives: We examined the association between GDF5 rs143383 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and OA susceptibility. Methods: All relevant articles that met the criteria are retrieved and included, and the search deadline is June 2022. The allele frequencies and different genotype frequencies of GDF5 rs143383 loci in each study were extracted and statistically analyzed by R4.1.3 software, and the different genetic models were analyzed based on their odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The meta-analysis explained that GDF5 rs143383 SNP was crucial correlated with OA in all patients with OA of knee, hip and hand. The codominant gene model in the whole crowd (OR = 1.17, 95% CI 1.07–1.27, P < 0.01) enlightened that OA was vitally associated with GDF5 gene polymorphism. At the same time, we did a subgroup analysis based on ethnicity. The codominant gene model (OR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.12–1.53, P < 0.01) in Asian population, the codominant homozygote model (OR = 1.28, 95% CI 1.14–1.43), codominant heterozygote gene model (OR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.01–1.23, P = 0.02), and dominant gene model (OR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.09–1.31, P < 0.01) in Caucasian are analyzed by subgroup analysis. It means that there is a momentous relationship between the GDF5rs143383 gene polymorphism and OA, especially among Caucasians. In addition, we also discussed different types of OA separately and discover that the GDF5rs143383 gene polymorphism was relevant for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and hand osteoarthritis, and it was more significant in the Caucasian population. But due to the high heterogeneity in hip osteoarthritis, it could not be accurately concluded. Furthermore, we also analyzed the osteoarthritis of different genders and found that the GDF5 rs143383 SNP was associated with both men and women and was still significant in the Caucasian population. Conclusion: We found a close association between osteoarthritis and GDF5rs143383SNP in this study. From the analysis of each group, we got the same conclusion in KOA and hand OA, but which need further verification in hip OA. Considering gender, we found a close relationship between GDF5 rs143383 SNP and OA of the knee, hip and hand, both for men and women. This conclusion is more obvious in Caucasian people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese-based bimetallic oxides show a high theoretical specific capacity, making them a potential next-generation lithium-ion battery anode material. However, as with metal oxide anode materials, aggregation, volume expansion, and poor conductivity are the main obstacles. In this manuscript, flexible CoMn2O4/graphene/carbon nanotube films were successfully prepared through a facile filtration strategy and a subsequent thermal treatment process. When used as anodes for lithium batteries, these films can be pressed onto nickel foam without other conductive additives and binders, which simplifies the manufacturing process. When used as an anode in the lithium-ion battery, CoMn2O4/GR/CNT film exhibits a high discharge capacity of 881 mAh g−1 after 55 cycles. This value is ~2 times higher than the discharge capacity of CoMn2O4. The three-dimensional GR/CNT carrier effectively dispersed CoMn2O4, preventing its aggregation and alleviating the problem of volume expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interspecies translation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) pharmacokinetics (PK) in presence of target-mediated drug disposition (TMDD) is particularly challenging. Incorporation of TMDD in physiologically based PK (PBPK) modeling is recent and needs to be consolidated and generalized to provide better prediction of TMDD regarding inter-species translation during preclinical and clinical development steps of mAbs. The objective of this study was to develop a generic PBPK translational approach for mAbs using the open-source software (PK-Sim® and Mobi®). The translation of bevacizumab based on data in non-human primates (NHP), healthy volunteers (HV), and cancer patients was used as a case example for model demonstration purpose. A PBPK model for bevacizumab concentration-time data was developed using data from literature and the Open Systems Pharmacology (OSP) Suite version 10. PK-sim® was used to build the linear part of bevacizumab PK (mainly FcRn-mediated), whereas MoBi® was used to develop the target-mediated part. The model was first developed for NHP and used for a priori PK prediction in HV. Then, the refined model obtained in HV was used for a priori prediction in cancer patients. A priori predictions were within 2-fold prediction error (predicted/observed) for both area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) and all the predicted concentrations were within 2-fold average fold error (AFE) and average absolute fold error (AAFE). Sensitivity analysis showed that FcRn-mediated distribution and elimination processes must be accounted for at all mAb concentration levels, whereas the lower the mAb concentration, the more significant the target-mediated elimination. This project is the first step to generalize the full PBPK translational approach in Model-Informed Drug Development (MIDD) of mAbs using OSP Suite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All-solid-state lithium batteries are a promising alternative to commercially available lithium-ion batteries due to their ability to achieve high energy density, safety, and compactness. Electrolytes are key components of all-solid-state batteries, as they are crucial in determining the batteries' efficiency. Herein, the structure of LiM2(PO4)3 (M = Ti, Ge, Zr) and lithium-ion migration mechanisms are introduced as well as different synthetic routes and doping (co-doping), and their influence on conductivity is discussed. The effective methods of reducing electrolyte/electrode interface resistance and improving ion-conducting properties are summarized. In addition, different polymer/NASICON composites are considered. The challenges and prospects of practical applications of NASICON-type lithium phosphates as electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advantages of low cost, high theoretical capacity, and dependable safety of aqueous zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZHSCs) enable their promising use in flexible and wearable energy storage devices. However, achieving extended cycling stability in ZHSCs is still challenged by the limited availability of carbon cathode materials that can effectively pair with zinc anode materials. Here, we report a method for synthesising heteroatom-doped carbon nanofibers using electrostatic spinning and metal-organic frameworks (specifically ZIF-8). Assembled Zn//ZPCNF-1.5 ZHSCs exhibited 193 mA h g−1 specific capacity at 1 A g−1 and 162.6 Wh kg−1 energy density at 841.2 kW kg−1. Additionally, the device showed an ultra-long cycle life, maintaining 98% capacity after 20,000 cycles. Experimental analysis revealed an increase in the number of pores and active sites after adding ZIF-8 to the precursor. Furthermore, N doping effectively enhanced Zn2+ ions chemical adsorption and improved Zn-ion storage performance. This work provides a feasible design strategy to enhance ZHSC energy storage capability for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel pyrophosphate Na7Ni3Fe(P2O7)4 was synthesized in two distinct forms, single-crystal and powder. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction was used to determine the crystal structure, and powder X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were used to examine the purity and morphology of the elaborated powder. This phosphate crystallizes in the P 1 ¯ space group of the triclinic system with a = 6.3677 (2) Å, b = 9.3316 (4) Å, c = 10.8478 (4) Å, α = 65.191 (1)°, β = 80.533 (1)° and γ = 73.042 (1)°. The crystal framework is assembled from the linkage of centro-symmetrical clusters Ni2(Ni/Fe)2P4O28. Each cluster consists of two (Fe1/Ni1)O6 octahedra, two Ni2O6 octahedra and two P2O7 units. The linkage of these clusters is provided by two other P2O7 units to generate a three-dimensional structure with distinct tunnels in the [100], [010] and [001] directions, housing the Na+ cations. The infrared and Raman analyses show the characteristic bands of the pyrophosphate anion P2O74−. Remarkably, the magnetic investigations revealed the coexistence of two magnetic transitions at ~29 K and ~4.5 K with dominating antiferromagnetic interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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At present, it is still a challenge to prepare multifunctional composite nanomaterials with simple composition and favorable structure. Here, multifunctional Fe3O4@nitrogen-doped carbon (N-C) nanocomposites with hollow porous core-shell structure and significant electrochemical, adsorption and sensing performances were successfully synthesized through the hydrothermal method, polymer coating, then thermal annealing process in nitrogen (N2) and lastly etching in hydrochloric acid (HCl). The morphologies and properties of the as-obtained Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites were markedly affected by the etching time of HCl. When the Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites after etching for 30 min (Fe3O4@N-C-3) were applied as the anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), the invertible capacity could reach 1772 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles at the current density of 0.2 A g−1, which is much better than that of Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites etched, respectively, for 15 min and 45 min (948 mA h g−1 and 1127 mA h g−1). Additionally, the hollow porous Fe3O4@N-C-3 nanocomposites also exhibited superior rate capacity (950 mA h g−1 at 0.6 A g−1). The excellent electrochemical properties of Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites are attributed to their distinctive hollow porous core-shell structure and appropriate N-doped carbon coating, which could provide high-efficiency transmission channels for ions/electrons, improve the structural stability and accommodate the volume variation in the repeated Li insertion/extraction procedure. In addition, the Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites etched by HCl for different lengths of time, especially Fe3O4@N-C-3 nanocomposites, also show good performance as adsorbents for the removal of the organic dye (methyl orange, MO) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates for the determination of a pesticide (thiram). This work provides reference for the design and preparation of multifunctional materials with peculiar pore structure and uncomplicated composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Redox materials have been investigated for various thermochemical processing applications including solar fuel production (hydrogen, syngas), ammonia synthesis, thermochemical energy storage, and air separation/oxygen pumping, while involving concentrated solar energy as the high-temperature process heat source for solid–gas reactions. Accordingly, these materials can be processed in two-step redox cycles for thermochemical fuel production from H2O and CO2 splitting. In such cycles, the metal oxide is first thermally reduced when heated under concentrated solar energy. Then, the reduced material is re-oxidized with either H2O or CO2 to produce H2 or CO. The mixture forms syngas that can be used for the synthesis of various hydrocarbon fuels. An alternative process involves redox systems of metal oxides/nitrides for ammonia synthesis from N2 and H2O based on chemical looping cycles. A metal nitride reacts with steam to form ammonia and the corresponding metal oxide. The latter is then recycled in a nitridation reaction with N2 and a reducer. In another process, redox systems can be processed in reversible endothermal/exothermal reactions for solar thermochemical energy storage at high temperature. The reduction corresponds to the heat charge while the reverse oxidation with air leads to the heat discharge for supplying process heat to a downstream process. Similar reversible redox reactions can finally be used for oxygen separation from air, which results in separate flows of O2 and N2 that can be both valorized, or thermochemical oxygen pumping to absorb residual oxygen. This review deals with the different redox materials involving stoichiometric or non-stoichiometric materials applied to solar fuel production (H2, syngas, ammonia), thermochemical energy storage, and thermochemical air separation or gas purification. The most relevant chemical looping reactions and the best performing materials acting as the oxygen carriers are identified and described, as well as the chemical reactors suitable for solar energy absorption, conversion, and storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bottleneck in the implementation of hybrid lithium-sodium-ion batteries is the lack of anode materials with a desired rate capability. Herein, we provide an in-depth examination of the Li-storage performance of sodium titanate nanowires as negative electrodes in hybrid Li,Na-ion batteries. Titanate nanowires were prepared by a simple and reproducible hydrothermal method. At a low reaction pressure, the well-isolated nanowires are formed, while by increasing the reaction pressure from 2 to 30 bar, the isolated nanowires tend to bundle. In nanowires, the local coordinations of Na and Ti atoms deviate from those in Na2Ti3O7 and Na2Ti6O13 and slightly depend on the reaction pressure. During the annealing at 350 °C, both Na and Ti coordinations undergo further changes. The nanowires are highly defective, and they easily crystallize into Na2Ti6O13 and Na2Ti3O7 phases. The lithium storage properties are evaluated in lithium-ion cells vs. lithium metal anode and titanate electrodes fabricated with PVDF and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) binders. The Li-storage by nanowires proceeds by a hybrid capacitive-diffusive mechanism between 0.1 and 2.5 V, which enables to achieve a high specific capacity. Sodium titanates accommodate Li+ by formation of mixed lithium-sodium-phase Na2−xLixTi6O13, which is decomposed to the distinct lithium phases Li0.54Ti2.86O6 and Li0.5TiO2. Contrary to lithium, the sodium storage is accomplished mainly by the capacitive reactions, and thus the phase composition is preserved during cycling in sodium ion cells. The isolated nanowires outperform bundled nanowires with respect to rate capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li-Nb-O-based insertion layers between electrodes and electrolytes of Li-ion batteries (LIBs) are known to protect the electrodes and electrolytes from unwanted reactions and to enhance Li transport across interfaces. An improved operation of LIBs, including all-solid-state LIBs, is reached with Li-Nb-O-based insertion layers. This work reviews the suitability of polymorphic Li-Nb-O-based compounds (e.g., crystalline, amorphous, and mesoporous bulk materials and films produced by various methodologies) for LIB operation. The literature survey on the benefits of niobium-oxide-based materials for LIBs, and additional experimental results obtained from neutron scattering and electrochemical experiments on amorphous LiNbO3 films are the focus of the present work. Neutron reflectometry reveals a higher porosity in ion-beam sputtered amorphous LiNbO3 films (22% free volume) than in other metal oxide films such as amorphous LiAlO2 (8% free volume). The higher porosity explains the higher Li diffusivity reported in the literature for amorphous LiNbO3 films compared to other similar Li-metal oxides. The higher porosity is interpreted to be the reason for the better suitability of LiNbO3 compared to other metal oxides for improved LIB operation. New results are presented on gravimetric and volumetric capacity, potential-resolved Li+ uptake and release, pseudo-capacitive fractions, and Li diffusivities determined electrochemically during long-term cycling of LiNbO3 film electrodes with thicknesses between 14 and 150 nm. The films allow long-term cycling even for fast cycling with rates of 240C possessing reversible capacities as high as 600 mAhg−1. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) shows that the film atomic network is stable during cycling. The Li diffusivity estimated from the rate capability experiments is considerably lower than that obtained by EIS but coincides with that from secondary ion mass spectrometry. The mostly pseudo-capacitive behavior of the LiNbO3 films explains their ability of fast cycling. The results anticipate that amorphous LiNbO3 layers also contribute to the capacity of positive (LiNixMnyCozO2, NMC) and negative LIB electrode materials such as carbon and silicon. As an outlook, in addition to surface-engineering, the bulk-engineering of LIB electrodes may be possible with amorphous and porous LiNbO3 for fast cycling with high reversible capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate and compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of MB02 products, before and after optimizing the manufacturing process, and reference bevacizumab to establish bioequivalence between them. In this randomized, double‐blind, single dose, parallel study, 114 healthy male volunteers were randomized 1:1:1 to receive a 1 mg/kg intravenous dose of MB02‐SP, MB02‐DM, or US‐bevacizumab. The follow‐up period was 100 days. PK similarity between them was determined using the standard bioequivalence criteria (0.80–1.25) for the area under the serum concentration–time curve from time 0 extrapolated to infinity and the maximum observed serum concentration. Study results showed that the PK profiles of bevacizumab were similar. Statistical analysis demonstrated that for each pairwise comparison there were no differences. The 90% CIs for the ratios of geometric least squares means were fully contained within the predefined similarity acceptance limits and ranged from 0.899 to 1.12 for area under the curve and from 0.887 to 1.11 for maximum concentration. A total of 159 adverse events were reported by 76 subjects who received the study drug. The majority (90.6%) of the reported adverse events were grade 1 in severity, with 9.4% as grade 2 in severity. None were considered as grade 3, 4, or 5. Treatment‐induced anti‐drug antibodies incidence was 21.6%, 33.3%, and 23.7% for the treatment of MB02‐SP, MB02‐DM, and US‐bevacizumab, respectively. No subjects showed treatment‐induced neutralizing anti‐drug antibodies. This study demonstrates the PK, safety, and immunogenicity similarity and bioequivalence of MB02‐SP, MB02‐DM, and the reference product bevacizumab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to their low dielectric loss and high permittivity values, dielectric ceramics have garnered a lot of interest from the scientific and industrial sectors. These properties allow for their downsizing and use in a variety of electronic circuits. This present work focuses on the impact of the substitution of W6+ with Mo6+ on the structural and dielectric features of the crystalline phases in a similar TTB structure within the Ba0.54Na0.46Nb1.29W(0.37−x)MoxO5 system, with 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.33 mol%. These crystalline phases were elaborated using the conventional solid-state reaction method and analyzed with XRD, Raman, and dielectric techniques. The Rietveld refinement method showed that all these phases are characterized by tetragonal structure and the P4bm space group. The Raman spectra corresponded well to a TTB-like structure, and all the bands were assigned. The dielectric measurements of the prepared ceramic samples facilitated the determination of their phase transition temperature (Tc) and the dielectric responses. This investigation focused on determining dielectric permittivity (ε′) and its correlation with increases in MoO3 content in the ceramic structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Batteries are the backbones of the sustainable energy transition for stationary off-grid, portable electronic devices, and plug-in electric vehicle applications. Both lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium-ion batteries (NIBs), most commonly rely on carbon-based anode materials and are usually derived from non-renewable sources such as fossil deposits. Biomass-derived carbon materials are extensively researched as efficient and sustainable anode candidates for LIBs and NIBs. The main purpose of this perspective is to brief the use of biomass residues for the preparation of carbon anodes for LIBs and NIBs annexed to the biomass-derived carbon physicochemical structures and their aligned electrochemical properties. In addition, an outlook and some challenges faced in this promising area of research is presented. This review enlightens the readers with valuable insights and a reasonable understanding of issues and challenges faced in the preparation, physicochemical properties, and application of biomass-derived carbon materials as anode candidates for LIBs and NIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The second approach (bottom-up) includes chemical vapor deposition, thermochemical methods, sol-gel, etc. [[4]]. Nanostructured material properties can be easily modified/tailored as desired via different synthesis methods, which precisely control their size, shape, synthesis conditions, and appropriate surface functionalization. 36985937 8 Cojocaru C., Pascariu P., Enache A.-C., Bargan A., Samoila P. Application of Surface-Modified Nanoclay in a Hybrid Adsorption-Ultrafiltration Process for Enhanced Nitrite Ions Removal: Chemometric Approach vs. [Extracted from the article]

The performance of sodium-ion batteries largely depends on the presence and properties of passive films formed on the electrode/electrolyte interfaces. Passive films on negative electrodes inevitably result from the reduction in electrolyte components (solvent and salt anion). They have the properties of a solid electrolyte with sodium ion conductivity and are insulators in terms of electronic conductivity. Usually, they are called SEI—solid electrolyte interphase. The formation of SEI is associated with the consumption of a certain charge, which is an irreversible capacity. Passive films on the surface of positive electrodes (CEI—cathode electrolyte interphase) arise as a result of electrolyte oxidation. The present review summarizes the literature of the recent 15 years concerning the effects of electrode nature (hard carbon, other carbon materials, various metals, oxides, chalcogenides, etc.), electrolyte composition, and other factors on composition and properties of SEIs in sodium-ion batteries. Literary data on CEIs are reviewed as well, although their volume is inferior to that of data on SEIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a world‐wide disease prevalently in Western nations. It influences about 15% of the western populace, with a negative effect on the quality of life and furthermore on medical services costs. Anticholinergic antispasmodics are first line of treatment for discomfort or abdominal pain, particularly if unrelieved after alleviation of stoppage or antidiarrheal treatment. Otilonium bromide (OTB) is quaternary ammonium compound with action on distal GI tract as antispasmodic. It is utilized in the treatment of patients influenced by Irritable inside disorder (IBS) because of its particular pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. OTB is poorly absorbed systematically was viable in contrast with different medications used for same purpose, for example, pinaverium bromide and mebeverine, with a good tolerability profile. The effects are long lasting, even after stopping the dosage regime for reduction of abdominal pain. In this review, an overview of mechanism of action, pharmacologic action, synthesis and particularly various analytical and bioanalytical methods are discussed. The analytical methods discussed are spectrophotometry including Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS), chromatography and capillary electrophoresis methods are described with the range, limit of detection and quantification. The paper also provides details of scope of further extension of analytical methods. It was found that most of the analytical methods involves usage of toxic solvents e.g., methanol, acetonitrile, chloroform etc. posing risk to the analyst as well as environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many elements in the periodic table form ionic compounds; the crystal lattices of such compounds contain cations and anions, which are arranged in the way that these cations and anions form two interpenetrated sub-lattices (cation and anion sub-lattices). Up to now, a number of ionic compounds are known, in which cations or anions are fairly mobile within the corresponding sub-lattice; these compounds are termed as "solid-state electrolytes". Many solid-state electrolytes with such moveable cations and moveable anions are known to date. Following the footsteps of the established Li-ion battery technology, an interest in the Li+-conducting solid-state electrolytes appears, and all-solid-state lithium battery has started its journey to accompany the reigning counterpart. The valence and ionic radius of ions, the crystal structure, and intrinsic defects of the material are the prime properties of the solid-state electrolytes, which determine the ion mobility in the crystal framework. There are a number of solid-state electrolyte structures that demonstrate high Li+-mobility and high Li+ conductivity (Li+ superconductors) in the range of 10−2 to 10−3 S/cm at room temperature, which is comparable to the ionic conductivity of 1 M LiPF6 (~ 10−2 S/cm), but the conductivity can dwindle highly by up to 5–6 orders of magnitude within the different materials that belonged to the same crystal structure family. Moreover, the surface or interface properties are also crucial factors in tailoring the ionic conductivity of practical polycrystalline solid electrolytes. The interfacial properties and compatibility with electrode materials have a high impact on the performance of electrochemical cells with solid electrolytes. Although the potential window of many solid electrolytes is high enough, there are solid electrolytes which are unstable at low operating potentials while others are not stable towards the cathodes; these features result in the appearance of non-conductive interface layers resulting in a low interfacial charge–transfer kinetics. In this review, we discuss the latest advancements in the field of Li-ion conducting electrolytes from the points of their fundamental properties. The latest achievements in the fields of cell design and improvements of (solid-state electrolytes)/(various anodes) and (solid-state electrolytes)/(various cathodes) compatibilities are considered as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, CdTe polycrystalline thin film was deposited on p-type monocrystalline Si substrate via magnetron sputtering technology without an oxygen portion using a well-designed post-processing method under N2:O2 = 4:1, and then CdTe films were etched on the Si surface by Br2-CH3OH solution to analyze the surface and interfacial characteristics of CdTe/Si such as structure, morphology, optics interdiffusion, and intermediate compounds. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results indicate that the polycrystalline CdTe grow preferentially in the (111) direction, and Raman data demonstrate that the CdTe thin film is rich in tellurium, meaning that CdTe, as a p-type semiconductor material, combined with p-Si to form a composite structure. Meanwhile, photoluminescence (PL) spectra suggest that p-CdTe/p-Si under high thermal processing can effectively remove ~1.40 eV defect level, which indicates that the CdTe layer has a lower recombination center. It is particularly worth mentioning that x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), XRD, and Raman analysis confirm the Te–Si intermediate compounds at the CdTe/Si interface, which is very conducive to optimizing the contact characteristics of CdTe/Si, thereby improving the interfacial properties of CdTe/Si. This work reveals a potentially effective way to improve the performance of photoelectric devices by introducing poly-CdTe/Si as a composite structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of inexpensive batteries based on magnesium (Mg) chemistry will contribute remarkably toward developing high-energy-density storage systems that can be used worldwide. Significant challenges remain in developing practical Mg batteries, the chief of which is designing materials that can provide facile transport of Mg. In this review, we cover the experimental and theoretical methods that can be used to quantify Mg mobility in a variety of host frameworks, the specific transport quantities that each technique is designed to measure or calculate, and some practical examples of their applications. We then list the unique challenges faced by different experimental and computational techniques in probing Mg ion transport in materials. This review concludes with an outlook on the directions that the scientific community could soon pursue as we strive to construct a pragmatic Mg battery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The electronic, optical, magnetic, and thermoelectrical properties of both, the monoclinic (α‐form) and the orthorhombic (β‐form) phases of sodium manganese (II) arsenate NaMnAsO4 cluster are investigated comprehensively by the first‐principle calculations based on the Density Functional Theory. The full‐potential linearized augmented plane waves method within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and GGA + U approaches have been performed by the Wien2k software. Thermodynamic stability is confirmed by means of formation energy (ΔHf). The spin‐polarization is included in the calculations to study the electronic and magnetic properties. The indirect bandgaps are observed for the monoclinic phase, then the direct bandgaps are reported at Γ‐symmetry point for the orthorhombic phase. The density of state, besides the band structure calculation, revealed that the studied material can be identified as a ferromagnetic semiconductor at low temperature with an optical bandgap energy of 1.35 and 0.83 eV for monoclinic and orthorhombic phases with GGA approach, as well as 1.27 and 1.59 eV with GGA + U approach, respectively. The refractive index range is 1.5 to 2.4 along with a wide absorption band in the UV region, which makes this material outstanding for optoelectronic devices. The thermoelectric properties for both structures have also been investigated using the BoltzTraP package. The obtained electrical conductivity, as well as the figure of merit, are found to be important for thermoelectrical devices. This suggests that NaMnAsO4 could pave the way to further experimental research on optoelectronic‐thermoelectric applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La0.75Sr0.25Cr0.5Mn0.5O3 (LSCM)/graphene oxide (GO)-based composite electrodes are developed for energy storage applications. LSCM was synthesized by solution combustion method and GO by improved Hummers' method. Synthesized active materials at appropriate ratios (GO and LSCM) were mixed in polyvinylidene fluoride by vacuum centrifuge mixing (VCM) to prepare a composite dispersion of GO and LSCM which was coated on porous Ni foam using the VCM. The effect of GO content on specific capacitance (Csp) of LSCM was studied by varying GO content from 1 to 7 wt%. Both as-synthesized perovskite and GO were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Electrochemical characterization of the electrodes was carried out by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 3 M KOH. CV measurements revealed that LSCM electrode showed maximum Csp of 751 Fg−1 at 1 mVs−1. By increasing GO content from 0 to 5 wt % in composite electrodes, Csp was increased from 751 to 1223 Fg−1, respectively. Further, evaluation of CV results revealed that predominant charge storage mechanism of electrodes was Faradic in nature which exhibited distinct redox peaks. EIS revealed that LSCM-5%GO electrode showed the lowest solution resistance, charge transfer resistance and highest double layer capacitance among other electrodes. Furthermore, the LSCM-5%GO electrode showed 93% charge retention after 3000 charge–discharge cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nondestructive characterization of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) materials has drawn attention owing to the advances in instrumentation that enable in situ characterization during high-temperature cell operation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is widely used to investigate the surface of SOFC cathode materials because of its excellent chemical specificity and surface sensitivity. The XPS can be used to analyze the elemental composition and oxidation state of cathode layers from the surface to a depth of approximately 5–10 nm. Any change in the chemical state of the SOFC cathode at the surface affects the migration of oxygen ions to the cathode/electrolyte interface via the cathode layer and causes performance degradation. The objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the adoption of XPS for the characterization of SOFC cathode materials to understand its degradation mechanism in absolute terms. The use of XPS to confirm the chemical stability at the interface and the enrichment of cations on the surface is reviewed. Finally, the strategies adopted to improve the structural stability and electrochemical performance of the LSCF cathode are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, LaNi0.5Ti0.5O3 and La2NiTiO6 nanoparticles were synthesized by the modified Pechini method. LaNi0.5Ti0.5O3 was calcined at 1073 K for 17 h or 100 h, while La2NiTiO6 was calcined at 1273 K for 135 h. The double perovskite calcined at 1073 K for 17 h presented orthorhombic symmetry with Pbnm space group, mean particle size was 31.9 ± 1 nm, random ordering of Ni2+ and Ti4+ cations, Néel temperature close to 15 K, and magnetic moment of 1.29 μ B . By increasing the calcination time, this material showed the same symmetry and space group, a mean particle size of 50.7 ± 2 nm, short-range ordering of Ni2+ and Ti4+ cations, Néel temperature around 12 K, and magnetic moment of 0.96 μ B . La2NiTiO6 presented a monoclinic crystal structure, with P21/n space group, mean particle size of 80.0 ± 5 nm, rock salt ordering of Ni2+ and Ti4+, Néel temperature of approximately 23 K, and magnetic moment of 2.75 μ B . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastric cancer (GC) is still a vital malignant cancer across the world with unsatisfactory prognostic results. Matrilin-3 (MATN3) is a member of the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein family. The present research intends to explore the expression level of MATN3 in patients with GC and to explore the prognosis significance of MATN3. In this study, we observed that the MATN3 expression was remarkably upregulated in GC samples in contrast to noncancer samples. Clinical analyses unveiled that high MATN3 expression was related to age, tumor status, and clinical stages. Survival analyses unveiled that patients with high MATN3 expression displayed a poorer overall survival and progression-free survival than those with low MATN3 expression. The AUC of the relevant ROC curve for 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years of survival is 0.571, 0.596, and 0.720, separately. Multivariate assays revealed that MATN3 expression and stage were independent predictors of poor prognosis of GC patients. A meta-analysis unveiled that high MATN3 expression was tightly associated with better overall survival. Overall, our data indicated that MATN3 may have a diagnostic and prognostic value for patients with advanced gastric cancer and assist to improve clinical outcomes for GC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]