Cell Technology Research Articles

Applicability of blue algae as an activator for microbial enhanced coal bed methane technologies

The blue algae can be used as a nitrogen agent for promoting biological coalbed methane, but its applicability and microbial mechanism in different microbial enhanced coalbed methane technologies kept unknown. This study evaluated the methanogenic efficiency of blue algae addition with a mass ratio of 10% under fermentative degradation and microbial electrolytic cell technologies, and studied the changes of coal microstructure, surface functional groups, organic components and microbiome. The results showed that the algae addition affected the micro-concave-convex structure, non-uniform distribution of micro-particles and micro-cracks of coals, and finally increased the methanogenic rate by 1.74–2.66 times. The algae addition mainly affected the coal organic components including hydroxyl structure, hydrocarbon structure, aliphatic oxygen-containing functional groups and aromatic structure, as well increased the humus acids and microbial metabolites in fermentation broth; among them, the increased metabolites showed great differences between different technologies. The algae addition mainly increased the genera belonging to phylum Bacillota (such as Bacillus and Clostridium) and methanogens (Methanosarcina and Methanoculleus). These Bacillota groups could degrade organic matter into acetate and methanol via pathways of glycolysis and benzoate degradation, which provided substrates for such methanogens. This study strengthened the effectiveness of blue algae in enhancing technologies for biological coalbed methane.

Fabrication of solid-state plasmonic solar cell device using FTO|TiO2|Ag-nanoparticle assembly to generate hot electrons surpassing Schottky barrier

This work presents a detailed investigation into the fabrication and performance evaluation of plasmonic solar cells, where a thin film of silver nanoparticles is deposited onto a TiO₂ layer, with the silver film itself functioning as the active layer for light absorption and energy conversion. The study compares two deposition techniques—DC Magnetron Sputtering and Thermal Vapor Deposition (TVD)—revealing significant differences in the resulting device performance. The device fabricated using TVD demonstrated a significantly higher open circuit voltage of 440.3 mV and short circuit current density of 1.6 mA/cm² compared to the device fabricated via DC Magnetron Sputtering, which recorded an open circuit voltage of 56.92 mV and a short circuit current density of 0.03 mA/cm². These results indicate that TVD offers superior electron-hole separation, reduced recombination losses, and enhanced light absorption efficiency. The main contribution of this work lies in demonstrating that the TVD technique significantly improves the photovoltaic performance of plasmonic solar cells compared to DC Magnetron Sputtering. The study validates the hot-electron mechanism at the TiO2|Ag junction using Kelvin probe force microscopy, contributing valuable insights into the role of plasmonic effects in enhancing solar cell efficiency. Additionally, it underscores the potential of TVD for developing advanced solar cell technologies with higher energy conversion efficiency.

Navigating the Frontier Role of Electrolyte Interfaces in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell Technology

Recent advances in solar cell technology have been motivated by new materials and inventive engineering techniques. Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are becoming more widely recognized as a possible alternative for sustainable energy. Optimizing electrolytes is one of the most important variables impacting their effectiveness and durability. The electrolyte interface is critical to optimize charge separation, ion transport, and diffusion ensuring device stability and efficiency. The present investigation focuses on enhancing interface stability and investigating innovative electrolyte compositions to improve DSSC performance for sustainability in solar energy applications. Despite progress, obstacles remain in presenting core principles and research approaches in DSSC technology. Continued research is required to overcome these limitations and fully realize the potential of DSSCs in sustainable energy solutions.

Advancing elemental analysis by collision/reaction cell technology and micro-droplet calibration for bioimaging applications by LA-ICP-TOFMS

BackgroundBioimaging applications by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-TOFMS) require comprehensive elemental analysis spanning the entire mass range. Within biological systems, endogenous elements are critical for maintaining metal homeostasis in cells, a fundamental aspect in disease progression when disrupted. Additionally, elements from the higher mass range may originate from various sources such as metal-tags for immuno-mass spectrometry, nanoparticles, or metal-based anticancer drugs. This study assesses the efficacy of collision/reacton cell (CCT) mode for simultaneously analysing elements across the complete mass spectrum. Furthermore, we demonstrate the accuracy of the LA-ICP-TOFMS methodology through the analysis of serum reference material. ResultsOur findings demonstrate that the CCT mode outperforms the standard/no gas mode for LA-ICP-TOFMS measurements, particularly in quantifying endogenous elements susceptible to interferences. Through the analysis of picolitre-volume micro-droplet standards and serum reference material (deposited as micro-droplets), we observed accurate quantification of elements such as iron and selenium, with isotope ratios closely resembling natural compositions. As key advantage, the utilization of the CCT mode eliminated the need for labor-intensive post-data processing, streamlining analytical procedures. Additionally, the CCT mode also provided enhanced sensitivity (factor of 1.5–2) for elements in the higher mass range compared to the standard mode, without compromising the sensitivity for endogenous elements. SignificanceWe successfully integrated Seronorm serum reference material-containing micro-droplets into LA-ICPMS bioimaging workflows for quality control, enabling validated measurements of key biological elements. The use of the CCT mode is highly recommended for bioimaging applications that address the analysis of elements across the entire mass range.

Metaheuristic optimizing energy recovery from plastic waste in a gasification-based system for waste conversion and management

In an era where sustainable waste management and clean energy production are paramount, this study presents an innovative integration of plastic waste gasification with solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology, optimized through metaheuristic particle swarm optimization (PSO). The research explores the conversion of polypropylene (PP) waste into syngas via gasification, which is then utilized as a fuel for SOFCs to generate electricity. The optimization process focuses on maximizing power and heating outputs while minimizing carbon dioxide emissions. The study's findings demonstrate the potential of integrating gasification and SOFC technologies to create a sustainable energy system that addresses the challenges of plastic waste. Key findings from the metaheuristic PSO multi-objective optimization reveal that optimal power production, approximately 360 kW, is achieved at temperatures exceeding 1140 K, irrespective of the steam/PP waste ratio. Heating production peaks at 1000 kW with temperatures above 1120 K and utilization factors over 0.765, while the minimum heating output is 700 kW. Emission analysis indicates a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions with increased temperatures and utilization factors, achieving a minimum of 700 kg/MWh at temperatures above 1120 K. The study's results demonstrate the effectiveness of the PSO optimization in fine-tuning the operational parameters of the integrated system, leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Power production of 366.37 kW, a significant heating rate of 995.20 g/s, and emissions of 714.06 kg/MWh are the optimum performances. The research provides valuable insights into the potential of plastic waste-to-energy technologies as sustainable solutions for energy production and waste management.

Optimizing Activity and Stability in AgCl‐CuO Electrocatalysts: Insights from Different Morphologies for Enhanced ORR Performance

Highly enduring and methanol‐tolerant electrocatalysts are pertinent to revolutionizing direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) technologies. Transition metal‐based electrocatalysts are anticipated to rank among the remarkable electrocatalysts for boosting the sluggish Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) kinetics. Herein, we report a facile approach to optimize the activity and stability of the AgCl‐CuO systems. The tailored Nano Particle‐Nano Rod (NP‐NR) and Nano Leaf (NL) like morphologies deliver remarkable bifunctional catalytic performance for oxygen reduction and hydrogen evolution reactions, sustained activity, and comparatively better stability for ORR. A meager shift of only 0.014 V and 0.024 V in the half‐wave potential is observed in the NP‐NR and NL structures, respectively, for the ORR even after 2500 cycles. Furthermore, both the AgCl‐CuO composite exhibits an excellent tolerance to methanol.

Oncolytic Viruses as Reliable Adjuvants in CAR-T Cell Therapy for Solid Tumors

Although impactful scientific advancements have recently been made in cancer therapy, there remains an opportunity for future improvements. Immunotherapy is perhaps one of the most cutting-edge categories of therapies demonstrating potential in the clinical setting. Genetically engineered T cells express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), which can detect signals expressed by the molecules present on the surface of cancer cells, also called tumor-associated antigens (TAAs). Their effectiveness has been extensively demonstrated in hematological cancers; therefore, these results can establish the groundwork for their applications on a wide range of requirements. However, the application of CAR-T cell technology for solid tumors has several challenges, such as the existence of an immune-suppressing tumor microenvironment and/or inadequate tumor infiltration. Consequently, combining therapies such as CAR-T cell technology with other approaches has been proposed. The effectiveness of combining CAR-T cell with oncolytic virus therapy, with either genetically altered or naturally occurring viruses, to target tumor cells is currently under investigation, with several clinical trials being conducted. This narrative review summarizes the current advancements, opportunities, benefits, and limitations in using each therapy alone and their combination. The use of oncolytic viruses offers an opportunity to address the existing challenges of CAR-T cell therapy, which appear in the process of trying to overcome solid tumors, through the combination of their strengths. Additionally, utilizing oncolytic viruses allows researchers to modify the virus, thus enabling the targeted delivery of specific therapeutic agents within the tumor environment. This, in turn, can potentially enhance the cytotoxic effect and therapeutic potential of CAR-T cell technology on solid malignancies, with impactful results in the clinical setting.

Microbial fuel cell technology: Novelties for a clean future

The degree of civilization exhibited by a society is largely determined by its reliance on energy, and as traditional energy sources such as fossil fuels become scarcer, new technologies will be required to secure sustainable energy. Microbial fuel cell technology is one of the most creative ways to meet humanity's energy demands because it can generate electrical energy from carbon sources. The framework of the limitations limiting the dissemination of this technology has been used to explore in depth new designs and configurations that have been produced recently. Future developments and current applications of this technology in bioremediation investigations are explored. The use of microbial fuel cell technology as a microbial biosensor for the identification of environmental contaminants is particularly significant. However, for a clean and sustainable ecosystem, it is imperative to disclose the challenges associated with the future adoption of this technology.

Promising tools for future drug discovery and development in antiarrhythmic therapy.

Arrhythmia refers to irregularities in the rate and rhythm of the heart, with symptoms spanning from mild palpitations to life-threatening arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). The complex molecular nature of arrhythmias complicates the selection of appropriate treatment. Current therapies involve the use of antiarrhythmic drugs (class I-IV) with limited efficacy and dangerous side effects and implantable pacemakers and cardioverter-defibrillators with hardware-related complications and inappropriate shocks. The number of novel antiarrhythmic drug in the development pipeline has decreased substantially during the last decade and underscores uncertainties regarding future developments in this field. Consequently, arrhythmia treatment poses significant challenges, prompting the need for alternative approaches. Remarkably, innovative drug discovery and development technologies show promise in helping advance antiarrhythmic therapies. Here, we review unique characteristics and the transformative potential of emerging technologies that offer unprecedented opportunities for transitioning from traditional antiarrhythmics to next-generation therapies. We assess stem cell technology, emphasizing the utility of innovative cell profiling using multi-omics, high-throughput screening, and advanced computational modeling in developing treatments tailored precisely to individual genetic and physiological profiles. We offer insights into gene therapy, peptide and peptibody approaches for drug delivery. We finally discuss potential strengths and weaknesses of such techniques in reducing adverse effects and enhancing overall treatment outcomes, leading to more effective, specific, and safer therapies. Altogether, this comprehensive overview introduces innovative avenues for personalized rhythm therapy, with particular emphasis on drug discovery, aiming to advance the arrhythmia treatment landscape and the prevention of SCD. Significance Statement Arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death account for 15-20% of deaths worldwide. However, current antiarrhythmic therapies are ineffective and with dangerous side effects. Here, we review the field of arrhythmia treatment underscoring the slow progress in advancing the cardiac rhythm therapy pipeline and the uncertainties regarding evolution of this field. We provide information on how emerging technological and experimental tools can help accelerate progress and address the limitations of antiarrhythmic drug discovery.

The Roles of Micro- and Nanoscale Materials in Cell-Engineering Systems.

Customizable manufacturing of ex vivo cell engineering is driven by the need for innovations in the biomedical field and holds substantial potential for addressing current therapeutic challenges; but it is still only in its infancy. Micro- and nanoscale-engineered materials are increasingly used to control core cell-level functions in cellular engineering. By reprogramming or redirecting targeted cells for extremely precise functions, these advanced materials offer new possibilities. This influences the modularity of cell reprogramming and reengineering, making these materials part of versatile and emerging technologies. Here, the roles of micro- and nanoscale materials in cell engineering are highlighted, demonstrating how they can be adaptively controlled to regulate cellular reprogramming and core cell-level functions, including differentiation, proliferation, adhesion, user-defined gene expression, and epigenetic changes. The current reprogramming routes used to achieve pluripotency from somatic cells and the significant potential of induced pluripotent stem cell technology for translational biomedical research are covered. Recent advances in nonviral intracellular delivery modalities for cell reprogramming and their constraints are evaluated. This paper focuses on emerging physical and combinatorial approaches of intracellular delivery for cell engineering, revealing the capabilities and limitations of these routes. It is showcased how these programmable materials are continually being explored as customizable tools for inducing biophysical stimulation. Harnessing the power of micro- and nanoscale-engineered materials will be a step change in the design of cell engineering, producing a suite of powerful tools for addressing potential future challenges in therapeutic cell engineering.

Morphogenesis <i>in vitro</i> in calluses of lavender <i>Lavandula angustifolia</i> Mill.: histological aspects

Histological events occurring in the calluses of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. at the initial stages of in vitro culture (1 passage) were described for the first time. It was found that the non-morphogenic callus is mainly represented by parenchymal tissue with few morphogenetic foci, mostly degenerated. In morphogenic calluses the morphogenesis pathways such as de novo organogenesis and indirect in vitro somatic embryogenesis have been identified and multiple developing morphogenetic foci have been noted also. The question of the realization of the pluri- and totipotency properties of callus cells in vitro is discussed. The histological data can be used in choosing the direction of application of regenerants obtained from calluses of this valuable essential oil and medicinal plant in various cell technologies.

Advancements in Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Technology: Bridging Performance Gaps for Enhanced Environmental Sustainability

In light of the anticipated 50% increase in global energy demand by 2050, the demand for innovative, environmentally conscious, efficient, and dependable energy technologies is paramount. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) offer a promising solution for sustainable energy production. This comprehensive review provides a detailed analysis of SOFCs, covering their fundamentals, materials, performance, and diverse applications, while also addressing technological challenges and future prospects. The review emphasizes the key advantages of SOFCs, including their high efficiency of up to 60% and minimal environmental impact. It explores the significance of impurity resistance and durability in materials and manufacturing processes for SOFC components. Comparative evaluations demonstrate the superior energy efficiency and ecological effects of SOFCs compared to other fuel cell technologies. SOFCs’ versatility and potential are showcased through their applications in transportation, power generation and storage, portable devices, and residential usage. However, challenges such as cost, longevity, reliability, and integration with other energy systems are identified, emphasizing the need for supportive policies and regulations.

Development of a Versatile and Reversible Multi-Stack Solid Oxide Cell System towards Operation Strategies Optimization

Abstract In context of Temperature Electrolysis based on Solid Oxide Cell technology, CEA LITEN has developed a new investigation tool (MURPHY) devoted to the operation of several Solid Oxide stacks. MURPHY enables stack operation in both the electrolysis (SOE) and the fuel cell (SOFC) modes. For the later, H2, CH4, and natural gas can be used as fuel. A compact Balance of Plant (BOP) is designed to (i) provide air by centrifugal blower, (ii) target high thermal integration and performances, (iii) preheat inlet gases, (iv) recycle fuel exhaust, and (v) control pressure levels. Instrumentation was defined to support modeling development and accurate process efficiencies characterization. 
MURPHY is currently compatible with four stacks of CEA standard base design (25 cells, of 100 cm² active area), the corresponding maximum power range of the module is -16/4 kWDC for supply and venting of gases produced.
This report details system architecture. It also puts forward experimental results related in an environment controlled by thermal phenomena. Performance and efficiency curves obtained under parametric variations of temperature and flowrates are reported for both SOE and SOFC-H2 modes. A special attention is given to heat performance. In this view, flow parameters at several locations over circuitries are provide

Photobiomodulation effects on neuronal transdifferentiation of immortalized adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) possess the ability to transform into various cell types, including neurons. It has been proposed that the optimization of this transformation can be achieved by using photobiomodulation (PBM). The objective of this laboratory-based investigation was to induce the transformation of immortalized ADMSCs (iADMSCs) into neurons with chemical triggers and then evaluate the supportive effects of PBM at two different wavelengths, 525 nm and 825 nm, each administered at a dose of 5 J/cm2, as well as the combined application of these wavelengths. The results revealed that the treated cells retained their stem cell characteristics, although the cells exposed to the green laser exhibited a reduction in the CD44 marker. Furthermore, early, and late neuronal markers were identified using flow cytometry analysis. The biochemical analysis included the assessment of cell morphology, viability, cell proliferation, potential cytotoxicity, and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The findings of this study indicate that PBM does not harm the differentiation process and may even enhance it, but it necessitates a longer incubation period in the induction medium. These research findings contribute to the validation of stem cell technology for potential applications in in vivo, pre-clinical, and clinical research environments.

Enhancing dye-sensitized solar cells efficiency through organic dyes-sensitized holmium-doped TiO2/SnO2 nanocomposites blended with P3HT

The pursuit of sustainable energy solutions has spurred innovation in photovoltaic technology, with dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) emerging as promising contenders. This study presents a novel approach leveraging holmium-doped TiO2/SnO2 nanocomposites sensitized with organic dyes, Arsenazo-III, carminic acid, and dithizone, blended with poly (3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT). Through meticulous characterization and analysis, key parameters including short-circuit current density (Jsc), open-circuit voltage (Voc), fill factor (FF), and overall percent efficiency (%) were scrutinized to evaluate photovoltaic performance comprehensively. Absorption spectra analysis facilitated the calculation of band gaps, revealing a significant reduction from 3.10 eV in pure Titania (TiO2) nanoparticles to 2.72 eV upon doping with Holmium and coupling with SnO2. Notably, Arsenazo-III dye-sensitized holmium-doped TiO2/SnO2 nanocomposites exhibited highest power conversion efficiency, achieving a promising efficiency of 2.10 %, which marked a significant improvement over the reference device (0.82 %). This improvement is attributed to the synergistic effects of holmium dopant incorporation and SnO2 interaction, enhancing light responsiveness. The findings not only validate the efficacy of nanohybrid assemblies but also contribute valuable insights to solar cell technology advancement.

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NSB4 bacteria for treating wastewater for fuel cell application

Pollutants in water bodies come from a variety of sources, including but not limited to domestic, industrial, municipal etc. Water contamination and energy shortages are global problems that require significant attention. Therefore, it is essential to synthesize sustainable energy and transport waste-free water to the water reception points. Concerns about energy shortages and water contamination have prompted the development of microbial fuel cell technology. Microorganisms are used by the electrochemical cell nature of MFCs to digest the organic wastes and produce energy anaerobically. Focusing on single-chambered mediator-less MFCs operating in batch mode, this study assesses the efficacy of a novel bacterial strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens NSB4, as an exoelectrogen regarding electricity yield and waste elimination. Results from the strain's electrochemical characterization showed a maximum current density of 0.4804A/m2 and a power density of 41.281mW/m2. Additionally, the columbic efficiency (72%) and COD reduction efficiency (90.46%) were also remarkably high. Growth of the anodic biofilm during the MFC process displayed the crucial performance of the exoelectrogen used. SEM images of the biofilm are also presented in the study.

Zinc telluride material properties for solar cell application: Absorber layer

Over recent years, Zinc Telluride (ZnTe) has garnered significant interest from researches. This p-type semiconductors boasts a broad band gap, rendering it valuable in various optoelectronic uses like solar cells, LEDs, and laser displays. Given the growing interest in environmentally friendly energy alternatives, exploring the potential of nano-scale semiconducting materials for solar cells is particularly intriguing. ZnTe stands out due to its direct, wide, and adjustable optical band gap, along with its simple doping process, positioning it as a promising candidate for applications in photochemistry. This study aims to consolidate the research conducted by multiple investigators concerning the optical characteristics and electrical attributes of ZnTe thin films. The primary focus is on understanding how deposition methods and doping impacts these properties. The investigation reveals that the diverse doping techniques employed by different researchers have been extensively examined, demonstrating a positive influence of doping on these properties as well. Following the creation of solar cells based on ZnTe, they have emerged as viable and competitive substitutes for silicon solar cells, thanks to their economical nature and stable performance. As a result, there has been notable focus on advancing ZnTe thin film solar cell technology due to their promising capacity to serve as sustainable energy generators.

The Impact of Substrate Temperature on the Adhesion Strength of Electroplated Copper on an Al-Doped ZnO/Si System.

This research, which involved a comprehensive methodology, including depositing electroplated copper on a copper seed layer and Al-doped ZnO (AZO) thin films on textured silicon substrates using DC magnetron sputtering with varying substrate heating, has yielded significant findings. The study thoroughly investigated the effects of substrate temperature (Ts) on copper adhesion strength and morphology using the peel force test and electron microscopy. The peel force test was conducted at angles of 90°, 135°, and 180°. The average adhesion strength was about 0.2 N/mm for the samples without substrate heating. For the samples with substrate heating at 100 °C, the average peeling force of the electroplated copper film was about 1 N/mm. The average peeling force increased to 1.5 N/mm as the substrate heating temperature increased to 200 °C. The surface roughness increases as the annealing temperature of the Cu/AZO/Si sample increases. These findings not only provide a reliable and robust method for applying AZO transparent conductive films onto silicon solar cells but also underscore its potential to significantly enhance the efficiency and durability of solar cells significantly, thereby instilling confidence in the field of solar cell technology.

Advancing stem cell technologies for conservation of wildlife biodiversity.

Wildlife biodiversity is essential for healthy, resilient and sustainable ecosystems. For biologists, this diversity also represents a treasure trove of genetic, molecular and developmental mechanisms that deepen our understanding of the origins and rules of life. However, the rapid decline in biodiversity reported recently foreshadows a potentially catastrophic collapse of many important ecosystems and the associated irreversible loss of many forms of life on our planet. Immediate action by conservationists of all stripes is required to avert this disaster. In this Spotlight, we draw together insights and proposals discussed at a recent workshop hosted by Revive & Restore, which gathered experts to discuss how stem cell technologies can support traditional conservation techniques and help protect animal biodiversity. We discuss reprogramming, in vitro gametogenesis, disease modelling and embryo modelling, and we highlight the prospects for leveraging stem cell technologies beyond mammalian species.

Ethylamine as a regenerative fuel for emission-free direct liquid fuel cell

Discovery of energy-dense and emission-free fuels for low-temperature fuel cell technology remains an important research theme to achieve efficient, clean electricity generation. In this study, we report the study of ethylamine as a regenerative fuel for emission-free fuel cells. The electrocatalytic ethylamine dehydrogenation reaction on commercial Pt catalyst under alkaline conditions exhibits fast reaction kinetics and produces acetonitrile as sole product, which can be readily hydrogenated back to ethylamine for reuse and thereby avoid CO2 emissions. By assembling and testing a direct ethylamine fuel cell, we demonstrate the capability of this regenerative fuel for clean electricity generation. The fuel cell performances are evaluated with different ethylamine fuel concentrations and operation temperatures and compared with other direct liquid fuel cells, highlighting promising prospects for utilizing ethylamine as a regenerative fuel in fuel cells for efficient and clean electricity generation.