Search Results (2,187)

The interface between high-performance thermoelectric materials and electrodes critically governs the conversion efficiency and long-term reliability of thermoelectric generators under high-temperature operation. Here, we propose Al_xCoCrFeNi high-entropy alloys (HEA) as barrier layers to bond Cu-W electrodes with p-type skutterudite (p-SKD) thermoelectric materials. The HEA/p-SKD interface exhibited excellent chemical bonding with a stable and controllable reaction layer, forming a dense, defect-free (Fe,Ni,Co,Cr)Sb phase (thickness of ~2.5 μm) at the skutterudites side. The interfacial resistivity achieved a low value of 0.26 μΩ·cm² and remained at 7.15 μΩ·cm² after aging at 773 K for 16 days. Moreover, the interface demonstrated remarkable mechanical stability, with an initial shear strength of 88 MPa. After long-term aging for 16 days at 773 K, the shear strength retained 74 MPa (only 16% degradation), ranking among the highest reported for thermoelectric materials/metal joints. Remarkably, the joint maintained a shear strength of 29 MPa even after 100 continuous thermal cycles (623–773 K), highlighting its outstanding thermo-mechanical stability. These results validate the Al_xCoCrFeNi high-entropy alloys as an ideal interfacial material for thermoelectric generators, enabling simultaneous optimization of electrical and mechanical performance in harsh environments. Full article

Background: Severe damage to one side of the brain often leads to adverse consequences and can also cause widespread changes throughout the brain, especially in the contralateral area. Studying molecular changes in the contralateral cerebral hemisphere, especially with regard to genetic regulation, can help discover potential treatment strategies to promote recovery after severe brain trauma on one side. Methods: In our study, the right motor cortex was surgically removed to simulate severe unilateral brain injury, and changes in glial cells and synaptic structure in the contralateral cortex were subsequently assessed through immunohistological, morphological, and Western blot analyses. We conducted transcriptomic studies to explore changes in gene expression levels associated with the inflammatory response. Results: Seven days after corticotomy, levels of reactive astrocytes and hypertrophic microglia increased significantly in the experimental group, while synapsin-1 and PSD-95 levels in the contralateral motor cortex increased. These molecular changes are associated with structural changes, including destruction of dendritic structures and the encapsulation of astrocytes by synapses. Genome-wide transcriptome analysis showed a significant increase in gene pathways involved in inflammatory responses, synaptic activity, and nerve fiber regeneration in the contralateral cortex after corticorectomy. Key transcription factors such as NF-κB1, Rela, STAT3 and Jun were identified as potential regulators of these contralateral changes. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) confirmed that the mRNA expression levels of Cacna1c, Tgfb1 and Slc2a1 genes related to STAT3, JUN, and NF-κB regulation significantly increased in the contralateral cortex of the experimental group. Conclusions: After unilateral brain damage occurs, changes in the contralateral cerebral hemisphere are closely related to processes involving inflammation and synaptic function. Full article

Cutaneous and oral mucosal adverse events (AEs) are among the most common non-hematologic toxicities observed during breast cancer treatment. These complications arise across various therapeutic modalities including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormonal therapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Although often underrecognized compared with systemic side effects, dermatologic and mucosal toxicities can severely impact the patients’ quality of life, leading to psychosocial distress, pain, and reduced treatment adherence. In severe cases, these toxicities may necessitate dose reductions, treatment delays, or discontinuation, thereby compromising oncologic outcomes. The growing use of precision medicine and novel targeted agents has broadened the spectrum of AEs, with some therapies linked to distinct dermatologic syndromes and mucosal complications such as mucositis, xerostomia, and lichenoid reactions. Early detection, accurate classification, and timely multidisciplinary management are essential for mitigating these effects. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge on cutaneous and oral mucosal toxicities associated with modern breast cancer therapies. Particular attention is given to clinical presentation, underlying pathophysiology, incidence, and evidence-based prevention and management strategies. We also explore emerging approaches, including nanoparticle-based delivery systems and personalized interventions, which may reduce toxicity without compromising therapeutic efficacy. By emphasizing the integration of dermatologic and mucosal care, this review aims to support clinicians in preserving treatment adherence and enhancing the overall therapeutic experience in breast cancer patients. The novelty of this review lies in its dual focus on cutaneous and oral complications across all major therapeutic classes, including recent biologic and immunotherapeutic agents, and its emphasis on multidisciplinary, patient-centered strategies. Full article

Introduction: Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a common precancerous condition affecting the lips, primarily caused by prolonged ultraviolet radiation exposure. Various treatment options are available. However, the optimal treatment approach remains a subject of debate. Objective: To summarize and compare practice-relevant interventions for AC. Materials and Methods: A pre-defined protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021225182). Systematic searches in Medline, Embase, and Central, along with manual trial register searches, identified studies reporting participant clearance rates (PCR) or recurrence rates (PRR). Quality assessment for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2. Uncontrolled studies were evaluated using the tool developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The generalized linear mixed model was used to pool proportions for uncontrolled studies. A pairwise meta-analysis for RCTs was applied, using the odds ratio (OR) as the effect estimate and the GRADE approach to evaluate the quality of the evidence. Adverse events were analyzed qualitatively. Results: A comprehensive inclusion of 36 studies facilitated an evaluation of 614 participants for PCR, and 430 patients for PRR. Diclofenac showed the lowest PCR (0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.41; 0.66]), while CO₂ laser showed the highest PCR (0.97, 95% CI [0.90; 0.99]). For PRR, Er:YAG laser showed the highest rates (0.14, 95% CI [0.08; 0.21]), and imiquimod the lowest (0.00, 95% CI [0.00; 0.06]). In a pairwise meta-analysis, the OR indicated a lower recurrence rate for Er:YAG ablative fractional laser (AFL)-primed methyl-aminolevulinate photodynamic therapy (MAL-PDT) (Er:YAG AFL-PDT) compared to methyl-aminolevulinate photodynamic therapy (MAL-PDT) alone (OR = 0.22, 95% CI [0.06; 0.82]). The CO₂ laser showed fewer local side effects than the Er:YAG laser, while PDTs caused more skin reactions. Due to qualitative data, comparability was limited, highlighting the need for individualized treatment. Conclusions: This study provides a complete and up-to-date evidence synthesis of practice-relevant interventions for AC, identifying the CO₂ laser as the most effective treatment and regarding PCR and imiquimod as most effective concerning PRR. Full article

Transient increments of X-ray radiation and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) during solar flares are strong drivers of thermospheric dynamics on Mars, yet their class-dependent impacts remain poorly measured. This work provides the first direct, side-by-side study of Martian thermospheric reactions to flares X8.2 on 10 September 2017 and M6.0 on 17 September 2017. This study shows nonlinear, class-dependent effects, compositional changes, and recovery processes not recorded in previous investigations. Species-specific responses deviated significantly from irradiance proportionality, even though the soft X-ray flux in the X8.2 flare was 13 times greater. Argon (Ar) concentrations rose 3.28× (compared to 1.13× for M6.0), and radiative cooling led CO₂ heating to approach a halt at ΔT = +40 K (X8.2) against +19 K (M6.0) at exobase altitudes (196–259 km). N₂ showed the largest class difference, where temperatures rose by +126 K (X8.2) instead of +19 K (M6.0), therefore displaying flare-magnitude dependent thermal sensitivity. The 1.95× increase in O concentrations during X8.2 and the subsequent decrease following M6.0 (−39 K cooling) illustrate the contradiction between photochemical production and radiative loss. The O/CO₂ ratio at 225 km dropped 46% during X8.2, revealing compositional gradients boosted by flares. Recovery timeframes varied by class; CO₂ quickly re-equilibrated because of effective cooling, whereas inert species (Ar, N₂) stabilized within 1–2 orbits after M6.0 but needed >10 orbits of the MAVEN satellite after the X8.2 flare. The observations of the X8.2 flare came from the western limb of the Sun, but the M6.0 flare happened on the far side. The CME shock was the primary driver of Mars’ EUV reaction. These findings provide additional information on atmospheric loss and planetary habitability by indicating that Mars’ thermosphere has a saturation threshold where strong flares induce nonlinear energy partitioning that encourages the departure of lighter species. Full article

The remarkable advantages of zinc anodes render aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) a highly promising energy storage solution. Nevertheless, the uncontrolled growth of zinc dendrites and side reactions pose significant obstacles to the practical application of ZIBs. To address these issues, a straightforward strategy has been proposed, involving the addition of a minute quantity of AgNO₃ to the electrolyte to stabilize zinc anodes. This additive spontaneously forms a hierarchically porous Ag interphase on the zinc anodes, which is characterized by its zinc-affinitive nature. The interphase offers abundant zinc nucleation sites and accommodation space, leading to uniform zinc plating/stripping and enhanced kinetics of zinc deposition/dissolution. Moreover, the chemically inert Ag interphase effectively curtails side reactions by isolating water molecules. Consequently, the incorporation of AgNO₃ enables zinc anodes to undergo cycling for extended periods, such as over 4000 h at a current density of 0.5 mA/cm² with a capacity of 0.5 mAh/cm², and for 450 h at 2 mA/cm² with a capacity of 2 mAh/cm². Full zinc-ion cells equipped with this additive not only demonstrate increased specific capacities but also exhibit significantly improved cycle stability. This research presents a cost-effective and practical approach for the development of reliable zinc anodes for ZIBs. Full article

In today’s rapidly evolving organizations, talent management plays a critical role in driving sustainable growth. Talents, particularly those exhibiting leadership potential, are often seen as essential assets for organizational development. However, the presence of high employee’s leadership potential can also generate adverse emotional reactions from leaders, potentially leading to behaviors such as leader jealousy and leader ostracism. This study investigates the dark side of employee’s leadership potential by examining the mechanisms through which employee’s leadership potential influences leader ostracism, with leader jealousy acting as a mediator. Drawing on social comparison theory, we propose a theoretical model that includes organizational competitive climate and leader’s core self-evaluation as moderating factors. Using a three-wave survey of 672 leaders in the Chinese construction industry, hierarchical regression analysis was employed to test the hypotheses. The results show that employee’s leadership potential significantly increases both leader jealousy and leader ostracism, with leader jealousy serving as a mediator. Moreover, a high organizational competitive climate strengthens the relationship between employee’s leadership potential and leader jealousy, thereby enhancing the entire mediated effect. In contrast, high leader core self-evaluation weakens the relationship between employee’s leadership potential and leader jealousy, reducing the likelihood of leader ostracism and attenuating the mediated effect. This study provides both theoretical contributions and practical insights for organizations seeking to manage high-leadership potential employees while minimizing the risk of negative leadership behaviors. Full article

The fermentation of Actinobacillus succinogenes in bioelectrochemical systems offers a promising approach to enhance biotechnological succinate production by shifting the redox balance towards succinate and simultaneously enabling CO₂ utilization. Key process parameters include the applied electric potential, electrode material, and reactor design. This study investigates the influence of various carbon fabric electrodes and applied potentials on product distribution during fermentation of A. succinogenes. Building on prior findings that potentials between −600 mV and –800 mV increase succinate production, recent data reveal that more negative potentials, beyond the water electrolysis threshold, trigger electrochemical side reactions, altering product yields. Specifically, succinate decreased from 19.76 ± 0.41 g∙L⁻¹ to 14.1 ± 1.6 g∙L⁻¹, while lactate rose from 0.59 ± 0.12 g∙L⁻¹ to 3.12 ± 0.21 g∙L⁻¹. Contrary to common assumptions, the shift is not primarily driven by oxygen formation. Instead, the results indicate that the intracellular redox potential is affected by both the applied potential and hydrogen evolution, which alters metabolic pathways to maintain redox balance. These findings demonstrate that more negative applied potentials in electro-fermentation processes can impair succinate yields, emphasizing the importance of fine-tuning electrochemical conditions in the system for optimized biotechnological succinate production. Full article

Surfactants can be utilized to improve oil recovery by changing the performance of reservoirs in rock pores. Kerogen is the primary organic matter in shale; however, high temperatures will affect the overall performance of this surfactant, resulting in a decrease in its activity or even failure. The effect of surfactants on kerogen pyrolysis has rarely been researched. Therefore, this study synthesized a polymeric surfactant (PS) with high temperature resistance and investigated its effect on kerogen pyrolysis under the friction of drill bits or pipes via molecular dynamics. The infrared spectra and thermogravimetric and molecular weight curves of the PS were researched, along with its surface tension, contact angle, and oil saturation measurements. The results showed that PS had a low molecular weight, with an MW value of 124,634, and good thermal stability, with a main degradation temperature of more than 300 °C. It could drop the surface tension of water to less than 25 mN·m⁻¹ at 25–150 °C, and the use of slats enhanced its surface activity. The PS also changed the contact angles from 127.96° to 57.59° on the surface of shale cores and reversed to a water-wet state. Additionally, PS reduced the saturated oil content of the shale core by half and promoted oil desorption, indicating a good cleaning effect on the shale oil reservoir. The kerogen molecules gradually broke down into smaller molecules and produced the final products, including methane and shale oil. The main reaction area in the system was the interface between kerogen and the surfactant, and the small molecules produced on the interface diffused to both ends. The kinetics of the reaction were controlled by two processes, namely, the step-by-step cleavage process of macromolecules and the side chain cleavage to produce smaller molecules in advance. PS could not only desorb oil in the core but also promote the pyrolysis of kerogen, suggesting that it has good potential for application in shale oil exploration and development. Full article

The nitrogen cycle (N-cycle) is a cornerstone of global biogeochemistry, regulating nitrogen availability and affecting atmospheric chemistry, agricultural productivity, and ecological balance. Central to this cycle is the reversible interplay between nitrate (NO₃⁻) and nitrite (NO₂⁻), mediated by molybdenum-dependent enzymes—Nitrate reductases (NARs) and Nitrite oxidoreductases (NXRs). Despite catalyzing opposite reactions, these enzymes exhibit remarkable structural and mechanistic similarities. This review aims to elucidate the molecular underpinnings of nitrate reduction and nitrite oxidation by dissecting their enzymatic architectures, redox mechanisms, and evolutionary relationships. By focusing on recent structural, spectroscopic, and thermodynamic data, we explore how these two enzyme families represent “two sides of the same coin” in microbial nitrogen metabolism. Special emphasis is placed on the role of oxygen atom transfer (OAT) as a unifying mechanistic principle, the influence of environmental redox conditions, and the emerging evidence of bidirectional catalytic potential. Understanding this dynamic enzymatic interconversion provides insight into the flexibility and resilience of nitrogen-transforming pathways, with implications for environmental management, biotechnology, and synthetic biology. Full article

Achieving carbon neutrality requires not only reducing CO₂ emissions but also capturing atmospheric CO₂. Direct air capture (DAC) using amine-based adsorbents has emerged as a promising approach. In this study, we developed amine-epoxy/poly(vinyl alcohol) (AE/PVA) nanofibers via electrospinning and in situ thermal polymerization. PVA was incorporated to enhance spinnability, and B-staging of AE enabled fiber formation without inline heating. We systematically investigated the effects of electrospinning parameters, epoxy-to-amine ratios (E/A), and the degree of PVA saponification on CO₂ adsorption performance. Thinner fibers, obtained by adjusting spinning conditions, exhibited faster adsorption kinetics due to increased surface area. Varying the E/A revealed a trade-off between adsorption capacity and low-temperature desorption efficiency, with secondary amines offering a balanced performance. Additionally, highly saponified PVA improved thermal durability by minimizing side reactions with amines. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing fiber morphology, chemical composition, and polymer properties to enhance the performance and stability of AE/PVA nanofibers for DAC applications. Full article

The interest in macromolecular alkoxysilyl-functionalized hybrids (self-assembling or nanostructured), which could be used as precursors in biomimetic silica precipitation and for the synthesis of hollow spherical silica particles, is growing. Nevertheless, reports on all-organosilicon systems for bioinspired silica precipitation are scarce. Therefore, a new kind of polyalkoxysilane macromonomer–linear polysilsesquioxane (LPSQ) of ladder-like backbone, functionalized in side chains with trimethoxysilyl groups (LPSQ-R-Si(OMe)₃), was designed following this approach. It was obtained by photoinitiated thiol-ene addition of 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane to the vinyl-functionalized polysilsesquioxane precursor, carried out in situ in tetraethoxysilane (TEOS). The mixture of LPSQ-R-Si(OMe)₃ and TEOS (co-monomers) was used in a sol–gel process conducted under acidic conditions (0.5 M HCl/NaCl) in the presence of Pluronic^® F-127 triblock copolymer as a template. LPSQ-R-Si(OMe)₃ played a key role for the formation of microparticles of a spherical shape that were formed under the applied conditions, while their size (as low as 3–4 µm) was controlled by the stirring rate. The hybrid materials were hydrophobic and showed good thermal and oxidative stability. Introduction of zinc acetate (Zn(OAc)₂) as an additive in the sol–gel process influenced the pH of the reaction medium, which resulted in structural reinforcement of the hybrid microparticles owing to more effective condensation of silanol groups and a relative increase of the content of SiO₂. The proposed method shows directions in designing the properties of hybrid materials and can be translated to other silicon–organic polymers and oligomers that could be used to produce hollow silica particles. The established role of various factors (macromonomer structure, pH, and stirring rate) allows for the modulation of particle morphology. Full article

This paper presents the results of an investigation into the catalytic activity and selectivity of rhodium-based catalysts supported on natural zeolite clinoptilolite from the Shankanai field (Kazakhstan) in the dehydrogenation of light alkanes from associated petroleum gas (APG). Three modifications of the catalyst have been studied: basic 1%Rh/HCpt, modified with tin 1%Rh/10%SnO/HCpt, and combined with additives of tin and potassium 1%Rh/10%SnO/5%K₂O/HCpt. It has been shown that the addition of tin contributes to increased thermal stability and a decreased coking rate, while the addition of potassium suppresses side reactions (cracking and isomerization), increasing the selectivity for olefins. The highest yield of olefins (~30%) is achieved with the 1%Rh/10%SnO/5%K₂O/HCpt catalyst in the presence of water vapor. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), improved distribution of active components and reduced catalyst deactivation have been confirmed. The obtained data demonstrate the potential of the developed systems for the efficient processing of APG and the selective synthesis of olefins. Full article

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by persistent erythema and abnormal vascular response. Although current treatments focus on symptomatic relief, they often provide only temporary improvement and may be associated with side effects or recurrence. Cannabigerol (CBG), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, has recently garnered attention for its pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and skin barrier–supportive effects. However, its role in modulating pathological responses in rosacea remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of topically applied CBG in an LL-37-induced rosacea-like mouse model. Clinical and histological assessments revealed that CBG markedly reduced erythema, epidermal hyperplasia, and mast cell infiltration. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed downregulation of Il1b, Il4, Il6, Il13, Il22, Il31, Tlr2, Vegfa, and Mmp9. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analyses further demonstrated suppression of CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), along with reduced activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, including decreased levels of JAK1, STAT3, and phosphorylated STAT3. These findings suggest that topical CBG alleviates rosacea-like skin inflammation by targeting inflammatory and vascular pathways, including JAK/STAT and YAP/TAZ signaling. Full article

Background/Objectives: The projected rise in limb amputations highlights the need for advancements in prosthetic technology. Current transtibial prosthetic designs primarily focus on sagittal plane kinematics but often neglect both the ankle kinematics and kinetics in the coronal plane, and the metatarsophalangeal joint, which play critical roles in gait stability and efficiency. This study aims to evaluate the combined effects of compliance in the coronal plane and a flexible toe joint on prosthetic gait using non-amputated participants as a model. Methods: We conducted gait trials on ten non-amputated individuals in the presence and absence of compliance in the coronal plane and toe compliance, using a previously developed three-degree-of-freedom (DOF) prosthetic foot with a prosthetic simulator. We recorded and analyzed sagittal and coronal kinematic data, ground reaction forces, and electromyographic signals from muscles involved in the control of gait. Results: The addition of compliance in the coronal plane and toe compliance had significant kinematic and muscular effects. Notably, this compliance combination reduced peak pelvis obliquity by 27%, preserved the swing stance/ratio, and decreased gluteus medius’ activation by 34% on the non-prosthetic side, compared to the laterally rigid version of the prosthesis without toe compliance. Conclusions: The results underscore the importance of integrating compliance in the coronal plane and toe compliance in prosthetic feet designs as they show potential in improving gait metrics related to mediolateral movements and balance, while also decreasing muscle activation. Still, these findings remain to be validated in people with transtibial amputations. Full article