Search Results (740)

Background and Objectives: Clinically meaningful drug–drug interactions may be overlooked in oncology. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may modulate outcomes with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) by altering the gut microbiome, altering the immune milieu, and affecting transporter interactions. We evaluated whether concomitant PPI use affects survival among patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with nivolumab. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively included patients with metastatic NSCLC who received second-line nivolumab across five oncology centers (January 2020–June 2023). Patients were grouped as concomitant PPI users vs. non-users. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method and compared with the log-rank test; multivariable Cox models assessed independent associations. Results: A total of 194 patients were screened, of whom 30 were excluded according to predefined criteria. The final analysis included 164 patients—85 PPI users and 79 non-users. Median OS was 26.1 months (95% CI 15.5–36.7) in PPI users and 29.3 months (22.2–36.4) in non-users; this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.54). Median PFS was 6.2 months (3.7–8.6) in PPI users vs. 10.2 months (7.1–13.2) in non-users (p = 0.04). In multivariable analysis, absence of concomitant PPI use (No vs. Yes) was independently associated with longer PFS (HR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.24–0.89, p = 0.03), whereas PPI use was not associated with OS (HR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.67–1.61, p = 0.83). Conclusions: Concomitant PPI use during nivolumab therapy was associated with significantly shorter PFS and a numerical reduction in OS in real-world metastatic NSCLC. Where clinically feasible, the need for PPIs should be re-evaluated before and during ICI therapy. Full article

Organic and inorganic peroxides can induce intracellular redox homeostasis. In this study, a γ-cyclodextrin/genistein inclusion complex (γ-CD/GEN) was constructed to systematically elucidate the molecular mechanism by which it catalyzes GPx4-mediated peroxide reduction. The results indicate that the incorporation of γ-CD effectively disrupts the aggregated state of GEN, achieving an encapsulation efficiency (EE) exceeding 40%. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) analysis reveals significant differences in the catalytic behavior of γ-CD/GEN toward cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂): the reduction efficiency of CHP depends on both the concentration of γ-CD/GEN and GPx4, whereas the reduction of H₂O₂ is primarily regulated by the concentration of γ-CD/GEN. Isotope effect studies demonstrate that the reduction of CHP relies more on radical-initiated reactions, while the reduction of H₂O₂ involves proton transfer, with the differences in reduction rates correlating with their respective redox mechanisms. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations further confirm that γ-CD/GEN can stably bind to the Sec (Cys)-46 site in the active center of GPx4, thereby enhancing its catalytic activity. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of antioxidant strategies based on the precise regulation of enzyme activity. Full article

Considering the challenges associated with implementing emerging technologies and bacterial-derived antimicrobial metabolites at an industrial scale in the meat industry, this comprehensive review investigates the interactions between lactic acid bacteria-producing antimicrobial metabolites and emerging food preservation technologies applied to meat systems. By integrating evidence from microbiology, food engineering, and molecular physiology, the review characterizes how metabolites-derived compounds exert inhibitory activity through pH modulation, membrane permeabilization, disruption of proton motive force, and interference with cell wall biosynthesis. These biochemical actions are evaluated in parallel with the mechanistic effects of high-pressure processing, pulsed electric fields, cold plasma, irradiation, pulsed light, ultrasound, ohmic heating and nanotechnology. Across the literature, consistent patterns of synergy emerge: many emerging technologies induce structural and metabolic vulnerabilities in microbial cells, thereby amplifying the efficacy of antimicrobial metabolites while enabling reductions in process intensity. The review consolidates these findings to elucidate multi-hurdle strategies capable of improving microbial safety, extending shelf life, and preserving the physicochemical integrity of meat products. Remaining challenges include optimizing combinational parameters, ensuring metabolite stability within complex matrices, and aligning integrated preservation strategies with regulatory and industrial constraints. Full article

The expansion of green hydrogen requires technologies that are both manufacturable at a GW-to-TW power scale and adaptable for decentralized, renewable-driven energy systems. Recent advances in proton exchange membrane, alkaline, and solid oxide electrolysis reveal persistent bottlenecks in catalysts, membranes, porous transport layers, bipolar plates, sealing, and high-temperature ceramics. Emerging fabrication strategies, including roll-to-roll coating, spatial atomic layer deposition, digital-twin-based quality assurance, automated stack assembly, and circular material recovery, enable high-yield, low-variance production compatible with multi-GW power plants. At the same time, these developments support decentralized hydrogen systems that demand compact, dynamically operated, and material-efficient electrolyzers integrated with local renewable generation. The analysis underscores the need to jointly optimize material durability, manufacturing precision, and system-level controllability to ensure reliable and cost-effective hydrogen supply. This paper outlines a convergent approach that connects critical-material reduction, high-throughput manufacturing, a digitalized balance of plant, and circularity with distributed energy architectures and large-scale industrial deployment. Full article

The exceptional catalytic efficiency of [FeFe]-hydrogenases has driven intense efforts to reproduce their structure and function in synthetic models. A key structural feature governing the behavior of synthetic H-cluster analogs lies in the identity of the bridging dithiolato ligands that link the iron centers. These ligands play a pivotal role in tuning the electron density of the metal core, thereby dictating the complex’s redox characteristics and catalytic reactivity. In this context, we herein describe the synthesis and application of ferrocenyl bithiophene-2,2′-yl thioketone (1) as a proligand for assembling biomimetic models of the [FeFe]-hydrogenase active site. The obtained complexes were thoroughly examined using a suite of analytical methods, including NMR and IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and a single-crystal X-ray diffraction, affording comprehensive structural and chemical characterization. Furthermore, their electrochemical behavior toward proton reduction and hydrogen evolution was evaluated via cyclic voltammetry, enabling direct comparison with structurally related analogs. Full article

The adoption of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offers a sustainable pathway to zero-emission propulsion, supporting aviation decarbonization by replacing battery or fossil fuel systems with efficient hydrogen technology. This work presents the development, validation, and application of a comprehensive dynamic model of a 1 kW open-cathode PEMFC system, including complete balance of plant (BOP) and control logic for four cooling fans, a purge valve, and a short-circuit unit (SCU). The model was validated through extensive experiments with step, triangular, and real-world UAV current profiles. Under steady-state conditions, it reproduces stack voltage with a <1 V average error and a temperature of 2.5 °C. Dynamic modeling accurately predicts fan behavior, purge/SCU events, and transient voltage drops. Applied to a 25 min UAV flight, the model quantifies reactant-management impacts: purge events increase H₂ usage by 4.8%, with SCU raising total to 5.6% above stoichiometric consumption. Altitude analysis shows ambient temperature reduction dominates the oxygen partial pressure effects, yielding net cell voltage increase under current-based fan control. These insights underscore explicit BOP and ambient modeling for accurate UAV endurance estimation and strategy optimization, providing a basis for future altitude-chamber validation. By enabling precise BOP dynamics simulation and H₂ optimization, this model advances the achievement of affordable clean energy, facilitating an extended endurance with minimal environmental impact. Full article

Mediastinal radiotherapy plays a central role in the treatment of several malignancies, particularly Hodgkin lymphoma and breast cancer. However, exposure to thoracic radiation is associated with long-term cardiovascular complications, among which valvular heart disease (VHD) is increasingly recognized. Radiation-induced VHD typically presents after a latency period of 10–20 years and is characterized by progressive valve fibrosis, thickening, and calcification, most commonly affecting the left-sided valves. Management of radiation-induced VHD generally follows standard guidelines but remains challenging due to extensive calcification and coexisting radiation-related cardiac or pulmonary injury. A history of thoracic radiotherapy is associated with increased perioperative risk and may negatively impact surgical outcomes, which often alters the risk–benefit balance and favors less invasive therapeutic approaches. Advances in the transcatheter approach have expanded treatment options for this high-risk population; however, data on long-term outcomes remain limited. Evolving dose-reduction techniques, such as deep-inspiration breath-hold, intensity-modulated radiotherapy, and proton therapy, together with predictive dosimetric models, aim to minimize future cardiac toxicity. Given the delayed onset and progressive nature of radiation-associated VHD, structured long-term surveillance is essential to enable early detection and timely intervention in cancer survivors at risk. Full article

With the energy consumption of data centers continuously increasing in recent years, green data centers as a transformative solution have grown increasingly significant. In this paper, a proton exchange membrane fuel cell-based combined cooling, heating, and power (PEMFC-CCHP) system coupled with wind and solar energy is proposed to ensure an energy supply that matches the dynamic load requirements of data centers. Taking a data center located in Guiyang, China, as a case study, a TRNSYS 18 simulation model for the integrated energy system is developed, and the analysis on the energy, economic, and environmental performance of the system is performed. The results demonstrate that the integrated energy system can effectively accommodate the load fluctuations of data centers through multi-energy complementarity. The PEMFC-CCHP system achieves a high energy utilization efficiency of 0.85–0.90. Furthermore, the payback period of the integrated energy system is estimated to be between 8.2 and 13.1 years, yielding an annual reduction in CO₂ emissions of 1847 t. Full article

This scoping review evaluates the literature on options for planar solid oxide cell (SOC) performance optimization, with a focus on applied fabrication methods and design enhancements. Literature identification, selection, and charting followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines to ensure transparency, reproducibility, and comprehensive coverage, while also enabling the identification of research gaps beyond the scope of narrative reviews. We analyze the influence of fabrication methods on cell and component characteristics and evaluate optimization approaches identified in the literature. Subsequent discussion explores how design innovations intersect with fabrication choices. The surveyed literature reveals a broad spectrum of manufacturing methods, including conventional processes, thin-film deposition, infiltration, and additive manufacturing. Our critical assessment of scalability revealed that reduction in operating temperature, improving robustness, and electrochemical performance are the main optimization objectives for SOC designs. Regarding production cost, production scale-up, and process control, inkjet, electrophoretic deposition, and solution aerosol thermolysis appeared to be promising manufacturing methods for design enhancements. By combining the PRISMA-ScR evidence map with a synthesis focused on scalability and process control, this review provides practical insights and a strong foundation for future SOC research and scale-up, also for evolving the field of proton-conducting cells. Full article

We present a flexible pH sensor which leverages the unique properties of reduced graphene oxide/polyaniline (rGO/PANI) composite films through an efficient and scalable hybrid microfabrication approach, wherein the rGO/PANI films are conformally coated on flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates via dip-coating and thereafter lithographically patterned into precise arrays of interdigitated electrodes (IDEs), serving both as the pH-active medium and the electrical interface. Upon dip-coating, a thermal reduction process is performed to yield uniform rGO/PANI composite layers on PET substrates, where the PANI content is adjusted to 20% to optimize conductivity and protonation-driven response. Composition optimization is first performed using inkjet-printed silver (Ag) contacts and a conductometric readout mechanism is employed to explore pH-dependent behavior. Subsequently, IDE arrays are defined in the rGO/PANI using photolithography and oxygen-plasma etching, demonstrating clean pattern transfer and dimensional control on flexible substrates. Eliminating separate contact metals in the final design simplifies the stack and reduces cost. A set of IDE geometries is evaluated through I–V measurements in buffers of different pH values, revealing a consistent, monotonic change in electrical characteristics with pH and geometry-tunable response. The present study demonstrated that the most precise pH measurement was achieved with an 80:20 rGO/PANI composition within the pH 2–10 range. These results establish rGO/PANI IDEs as a scalable route to low-cost, miniaturized, and mechanically compliant pH sensors for field and in-line monitoring applications. Full article

To achieve optimal performance of renewable hydrogen production systems (RHPS), this study proposes a novel optimization framework for synergistically integrating wind–solar resources with diversified electrolyzers. A comprehensive techno-economic model is developed, incorporating both alkaline electrolyzers (AEL) and proton exchange membrane electrolyzers (PEMEL), and enabling the determination of the optimal wind–solar configuration ratio, electrolyzer types and capacities, and system-level economic performance. The results reveal that the nature of the renewable energy source predominantly influences the selection of electrolyzers. Specifically, pure photovoltaic (PV) systems tend to favor PEMEL, with an optimal PEMEL:AEL capacity ratio of 2:1, whereas pure wind turbine (WT) systems and PV–WT hybrid systems are more suited to AEL, with corresponding AEL:PEMEL ratios of 8:3 and 7:3, respectively. The combined operation of wind–solar complementarity and diversified electrolyzers reduces the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) to USD 4.52/kg, representing a 41.1% reduction compared to standalone PV systems, with a renewable energy utilization rate of 92.26%. Case studies confirm that collaborative AEL–PEMEL operation enhances system stability and efficiency, with PEMEL mitigating power fluctuations and AEL supplying baseload hydrogen production. This synergy improves hydrogen production efficiency, extends equipment lifespan, and provides a viable and theoretically sound solution for RHPS optimization. Full article

Hydrogen-rich water (HRW) has attracted significant attention for its physiological and therapeutic potential, driving efforts to develop a green and direct production approach. In particular, if solar energy could be utilized to power the process and the power-generation and water-production modules could be integrated into a single device, it would greatly enhance portability and user convenience, making it an ideal solution for personalized healthcare and outdoor applications. We demonstrate solar-assisted proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis using symmetric IrO₂ electrodes at both cathode and anode to directly generate HRW. The symmetric design simplifies manufacturing, mitigates lifetime mismatch and metal-ion cross-contamination. IrO₂ films were electrodeposited on stainless steel substrates and annealed at 400–700 °C. When coupled with a 100 cm² Si solar cell, the electrode annealed at 550 °C—featuring ~6 nm IrO₂ nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous matrix—exhibited the highest hydrogen production rate. At an applied voltage of 4 V, this 550 °C-annealed IrO₂ electrode produced approximately 1800 μmol h⁻¹ of H₂, corresponding to about 44 mL h⁻¹ of H₂ at 25 °C and 1 atm. Corrosion tests show the HRW is less aggressive to iron than DI, RO, and tap water, suggesting better compatibility with metallic components. During water splitting, the oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) rapidly decreases to <−300 mV within 0–10 min and then stabilizes, with the 550 °C–annealed electrode exhibiting the lowest ORP. Upon air exposure, the ORP increases by ~200 mV over 45–70 min yet remains reductive for >120 min, indicating persistent dissolved H₂ and sustained performance. Overall, the symmetric IrO₂ architecture provides a green, stable, and direct route to HRW production. Full article

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are playing a crucial role in the widespread adoption of hydrogen energy. However, their large-scale commercialization has been hampered by the high cost and limited durability of Pt-based electrocatalysts. To overcome the issues, researchers are focusing on Pt-non-noble metal (PtM) intermetallic electrocatalysts due to their superior activity and durability. This review highlights key advances in this field, starting with a comparison of intermetallic compounds and solid-solution alloys, and an analysis of the composition and structure of PtM intermetallics. It then proceeds to the controllable synthesis and structure characterization of the carbon-supported PtM intermetallics electrocatalysts. The review also thoroughly discusses their activity and durability for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Finally, some perspectives on remaining challenges and future development of the PtM intermetallics electrocatalysts are presented to guide the exploitation of the active and durable intermetallic electrocatalysts with high metal content and small size for practical substitution. Full article

The objective of this work was to assess the association of ACC (1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid), S-ABA (abscisic acid), and ethephon on color development and anthocyanin accumulation in berries, as well as on other quality attributes of ‘Benitaka’ and ‘Rubi’ table grapes grown in a subtropical region, in addition to postharvest conservation of clusters and vine regrowth. As a statistical model, a randomized block design consisting of nine treatments and four replications was used. The treatments included different associations of ACC, S-ABA, and ethephon, by using the commercial formulations Accede^®, ProTone^®, and Ethrel^® containing 400 g kg⁻¹ of ACC, 100 g L⁻¹ of S-ABA, and 720 g L⁻¹ of ethephon, respectively. The total anthocyanins, berry color index (CIRG), physicochemical characteristics, and cluster color coverage were assessed weekly, while berry firmness was assessed at harvest. After being harvested, the clusters were placed under cold storage at 1.0 ± 1.0 °C, and after 45 days, their postharvest attributes were assessed, as well as the vine regrowth in the following season. The exogenous and combined application of compounds at véraison was demonstrated to be a strategy to trigger the development of color in ‘Benitaka’ and ‘Rubi’ table grapes. For the ‘Benitaka’ table grape, the clusters treated with the different combinations of ACC and S-ABA, ethephon and S-ABA, or ethephon alone resulted in the highest concentration of total anthocyanins and the highest CIRG means (4.90; 4.86; 4.82; 4.81, 4.73, and 4.70 mg g⁻¹ for anthocyanins, and 6.12, 6.08, 5.97, 5.92, 5.85, and 5.74 for CIRG, respectively). For the ‘Rubi’ table grape, the combinations of ACC and S-ABA at 7 days after véraison (DAV), or ethephon and S-ABA at 7 and 14 days, resulted in higher means of anthocyanins and CIRG (3.86, 3.51, and 3.40 mg g⁻¹ for anthocyanins and 5.05, 4.68, 4.82, and 4.79 for CIRG, respectively). Furthermore, the firmness of the berries of both cultivars remained unchanged, and after 45 days of cold storage, no reduction in the quality of the evaluated postharvest attributes was found. It was concluded that a single application of ACC 0.20 g L⁻¹ + S-ABA 0.250 g L⁻¹ at 7 DAV was sufficient to promote the accumulation of anthocyanins and resulted in an intense and uniform color in the berries for both varieties assessed, with no adverse impacts on the postharvest conservation of the clusters or on the regrowth of the vines. The significance of this research was to demonstrate that table grapes with insufficient skin color can be improved through a combination of S-ABA and ACC at lower concentrations of active ingredients. Full article

High carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from industrial processes have intensified the need for large-scale, sustainable, and low-energy-consumption carbon capture technologies. Amine-based chemical absorption is a promising method for large-scale CO₂ reduction, but it faces challenges like high regeneration energy consumption, technical limitations, and commercialization difficulties. To reduce energy consumption in regeneration, this paper reviews low-energy regeneration methods, including absorbent optimization, catalytic regeneration, process waste heat recovery, and calcium-based chemical desorption, and explains the energy-saving mechanisms of each approach. Focusing on technical development bottlenecks, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the technical advantages, application limitations, and key challenges associated with various methods. Based on commercialization needs, this paper thoroughly investigates the development process and industrialization status of carbon capture technology in the iron and steel industry. Research has revealed that optimized absorbent designs reduce regeneration heat loads, catalytic acid sites promote proton transfer and lower desorption temperature, utilization of waste heat reduce additional energy consumption, and calcium-based compounds offer both low energy consumption and economic advantages in desorption. This article constructs a theoretical framework for low-energy regeneration technology, identifies innovation priorities, and analyzes scalability challenges and development pathways, providing theoretical support and technical guidance for industrial implementation. Full article