Cell Technology Research Articles

Modeling inherited retinal diseases using human induced pluripotent stem cell derived photoreceptor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells.

Since the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, there have been many attempts to create cellular models of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) for investigation of pathogenic processes to facilitate target discovery and validation activities. Consistency remains key in determining the utility of these findings. Despite the importance of consistency, quality control metrics are still not widely used. In this review, a toolkit for harnessing iPSC technology to generate photoreceptor, retinal pigment epithelial cell, and organoid disease models is provided. Considerations while developing iPSC-derived IRD models such as iPSC origin, reprogramming methods, quality control metrics, control strategies, and differentiation protocols are discussed. Various iPSC IRD models are dissected and the scientific hurdles of iPSC-based disease modeling are discussed to provide an overview of current methods and future directions in this field.

Synthesis of Bi2S3-sensitized TiO2 photoanodes for enhanced photovoltaic performance in solar cell application

The synthesis of Bi2S3 nanoparticles for sensitizing TiO2 photoanodes were synthesized through a cost-effective and straightforward approach using modified chemical bath deposition (M-CBD) or successive ionic atomic layer adsorption reactions (SILAR) at room temperature. Initially, a TiO2 seed layer was synthesized at room temperature via the chemical bath deposition method, followed by deposition of a mesoporous TiO2 layer using the doctor blade method. This study investigated the influence of the number of SILAR cycles and the choice of counter electrodes on the performance of Bi2S3/TiO2-based photoelectrodes. Characterization of the prepared Bi2S3/TiO2 photoanode involved various techniques, including X-ray diffraction, UV–Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy, enabling the analysis of its structural, optical, and morphological properties. The Bi2S3/TiO2-based cell exhibits a maximum conversion efficiency of 0.8%, demonstrating the potential of this combination for photovoltaic applications. This study contributes to the field of solar cell technology by presenting a novel approach for sensitizing TiO2 photoanodes with Bi2S3 nanoparticles, offering insights into the optimization of fabrication parameters and performance enhancement strategies for future device design and development.

All-protonic fuel cell designs and developments fuelled by ammonia.

Ammonia is a gas that produces zero carbon emissions when used in energy storage systems. Hence, there is increasing interest for the application of ammonia as fuel in various energy storage devices, specifically solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), as it has the potential to be efficient and environmentally friendly. In addition, compared to other fuel cells, SOFCs fed with ammonia offer various benefits such as such as sustainability and safety. This review compares and contrasts the opportunities and challenges of ammonia fuel cell technologies and helps to analyze their working principles. The main goal of this review is to investigate the viability of an "all-protonic" fuel cell using ammonia fuel while also highlighting the key challenges and limitations of implementing such technology.

Perovskite Type Lanthanum Oxide and Graphene Oxide (LaFeO3-GO) Composite as (Low Overpotential) ORR Catalyst for Low and High Temperature Fuel Cells

Due to depletion of fossil fuel and their environmental effect, renewable resources are the prime interest in which fuel cell technology competes with fossil fuels but their ORR at cathode restrict its efficiency. Perovskite type orthorhombic structure of LaFeO3 incorporated GO has ability to use as catalyst in low and high temperature fuel cells having non-agglomerated particles in nanometers range (20- 100), high temperature stability, low overpotential of about 0.6V, ECSA of about 13.22 m2g-1 and current density of about 0.012 mAcm-1. Results open further research directions in supercapacitors, batteries, biological fuel cells, and applications which requires high temperature stability.

Multi-criteria study and optimization of an innovative combined scheme utilizing compressed air energy storage for a modified solid oxide fuel cell-driven gas turbine power plant fueled by biomass feedstock

This paper explores the potential of a combined solid oxide fuel cell and gas turbine technology for medium- to large-scale power generation, emphasizing its applicability and sustainability, particularly with biomass feedstock. An innovative heat integration process is developed for a modified solid oxide fuel cell and gas turbine power plant, incorporating a steam power cycle, compressed air energy storage, a Kalina cycle, and a domestic hot water production subsystem. The system utilizes biomass through a downdraft gasifier, enabling a comprehensive evaluation of thermodynamic, economic, and environmental performance during both charging and discharging phases. A detailed parametric sensitivity analysis is performed to investigate two operational modes. Subsequently, five multi-objective optimization scenarios are formulated and optimized using the cuckoo search algorithm and two decision-making approaches. The results indicate that the optimization scenario focusing on exergetic round-trip efficiency and the unit cost of products during the discharging phase achieves superior thermodynamic and environmental performance. Specifically, the system exhibits energetic and exergetic round-trip efficiencies of 59.20 % and 51.06 %, respectively, with a levelized total emission of 0.64 kg/MWh. Furthermore, when considering the objectives of exergetic round-trip efficiency and net present value, the optimal economic performance is achieved with a payback period of 1.54 years and a net present value of $7.44 million.

Advancements in Gene Therapy and Stem Cell Applications in Interventional Cardiology: A Comprehensive Review

Gene therapy and stem cell applications represent the forefront of innovative treatments in interventional cardiology, offering potential solutions for previously intractable cardiovascular conditions. This review explores the current advancements, mechanisms, and clinical implications of gene therapy and stem cell technologies in the treatment of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and myocardial infarction. The integration of these modalities into interventional procedures has the potential to revolutionize patient outcomes by promoting myocardial repair, enhancing angiogenesis, and improving cardiac function. Despite promising preclinical and early clinical results, challenges such as delivery methods, immunogenicity, and long-term efficacy remain. This article provides a detailed analysis of the latest research, clinical trials, and future directions in the field, highlighting the transformative potential and obstacles that need to be addressed for widespread clinical adoption.

Enhancing the TiO2 light harvesting ability boosted by Sr2FeTeO6 additives in DSSCs

In this work, novel surface defected lead-free double perovskite oxide (Sr2FeTeO6) has been introduced in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) for the first time. The Sr2FeTeO6 material prepared by solid state method treated at 1200 °C. The DSSC was performed with varying weight percentage (0.01 wt%, 0.03 wt%, 0.05 wt%) of Sr2FeTeO6 additives incorporated with titanium di-oxide (TiO2) photoanode for light harvesting under AM 1.5 solar irradiation. The inorganic double perovskite oxide material as promising additive would be in the future developing 3rd generation solar cell technologies.

Ecofriendly Solution Processing of Perovskite Solar Cells Using Water.

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) represent a promising avenue for producing cost-effective solar energy by harnessing sunlight, but challenges persist in their solution processing, which uses a large amount of organic solvent for existing PSC technology. The use of water as a solvent offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional solvents, aligning with the global drive for sustainable renewable energy technologies. This Perspective provides an overview of research in the area of PSC fabrication using water as a solvent, highlighting key advancements in the synthesis process. We delve into the kinetics of crystallization and the physical-chemical transformations of perovskite materials in water-based solution processing. Key challenges of the scalability of water-based solution processing for PSC fabrication are discussed. The Perspective sheds light on the broader potential for enhancing the ecofriendliness of perovskite solar cell technologies.

Optimal EMS Design for a 4-MW-Class Hydrogen Tugboat: A Comparative Analysis Using DP-Based Performance Evaluation

In the current trend of hydrogen fuel cell-powered ships, batteries are used together with fuel cells to overcome the limitations of fuel cell technology. However, performance differences arise depending on fuel cell and battery configurations, load profiles, and energy management system (EMS) algorithms. We designed four hybrid controllers to optimize EMS algorithms for achieving maximum performance based on target profiles and hardware. The selected EMS is based on a State Machine, an Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy (ECMS), Economic Model Predictive Control (EMPC), and Dynamic Programming (DP). We used DP to evaluate the optimal design state and fuel efficiency of each controller. To evaluate controller performance, we obtained a 4-MW-class tug load profile as a reference and performed simulations based on Nedstack’s fuel cells and a lithium-ion battery model. The constraints were set according to the description of each equipment manual, and the optimal controller was derived based on the amount of hydrogen consumed by each EMS under the condition of completely tracking the load profile. As a result of simulating the hybrid fuel cell–battery system by applying the load profile of the tugboat, we found that the 4-MW EMPC, which requires more state variables and control inputs, is the most fuel-efficient controller.

Identifying miRNA Signatures Associated with Pancreatic Islet Dysfunction in a FOXA2-Deficient iPSC Model.

The pathogenesis of diabetes involves complex changes in the expression profiles of mRNA and non-coding RNAs within pancreatic islet cells. Recent progress in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology have allowed the modeling of diabetes-associated genes. Our recent study using FOXA2-deficient human iPSC models has highlighted an essential role for FOXA2 in the development of human pancreas. Here, we aimed to provide further insights on the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) by studying the miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks in iPSC-derived islets lacking the FOXA2 gene. Consistent with our previous findings, the absence of FOXA2 significantly downregulated the expression of islet hormones, INS, and GCG, alongside other key developmental genes in pancreatic islets. Concordantly, RNA-Seq analysis showed significant downregulation of genes related to pancreatic development and upregulation of genes associated with nervous system development and lipid metabolic pathways. Furthermore, the absence of FOXA2 in iPSC-derived pancreatic islets resulted in significant alterations in miRNA expression, with 61 miRNAs upregulated and 99 downregulated. The upregulated miRNAs targeted crucial genes involved in diabetes and pancreatic islet cell development. In contrary, the absence of FOXA2 in islets showed a network of downregulated miRNAs targeting genes related to nervous system development and lipid metabolism. These findings highlight the impact of FOXA2 absence on pancreatic islet development and suggesting intricate miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks affecting pancreatic islet cell development.

Scalable Fabrication Methods of Large‐Area (n‐i‐p) Perovskite Solar Panels

Organometal halide perovskite photovoltaic (PV) cells have achieved power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) comparable to the leading crystalline silicon (c‐Si) PV technology. However, despite their exceptional performance, these perovskite solar cells (PSCs) face technological challenges such as large‐area fabrication complexities and outdoor stability concerns. These challenges need to be addressed to pave the way for the commercialization of PSCs. The key to commercializing PSCs lies in developing stable, large‐area solar modules that offer both high efficiency and reliability. Overcoming the hurdles of large‐area module design and fabrication is a crucial step, and researchers are exploring innovative solutions to tackle these challenges. This review article primarily focuses on the development of large‐area PSCs, recent advancements in this field, and the obstacles related to scaling up this technology. It delves into the techniques used to fabricate perovskite films, with a special emphasis on large‐area and large‐scale PSC manufacturing methods. Moreover, the review highlights stability concerns that perovskite solar modules (PSMs) face and reports on recent progress in addressing these issues. The article concludes by summarizing potential future research directions aimed at realizing the full commercial potential of this innovative and promising solar cell technology.

A Revisit of Crystallization in Tin Halide Perovskite Thin Films: From Nucleation, Intermediate to Crystal Growth

AbstractPerovskite solar cells (PSCs) are exuding unique charm in the third generation of thin film solar cell technology with high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and low production cost. Recently, the lead‐free tin halide perovskite solar cells (TPSCs) have drawn significant research interests due to the advantages of low toxicity, near‐ideal bandgap and high carrier mobility. However, the rapid crystallization and easy oxidation limits the film quality and final performance of the solar cells. Therefore, the deposition of high‐quality tin halide perovskite films is key to the advance of TPSCs. In this review, the classical theory of solution nucleation and crystal growth is reviewed and correlated to the practical deposition of tin perovskite film. The physicochemical properties of tin perovskite with those of lead counterpart and the differences in the crystallization process is carefully compared. On this basis, recent regulation strategies are systematically summarized in terms of the nucleation management, intermediate phase engineering and crystal growth regulation. In addition, the preparation of mixed tin‐lead (Sn‐Pb) PSCs toward high performance is also discussed, as well as the limiting factors for device performance and stability. Finally, the future challenges and prospects of the crystallization regulation are discussed toward more efficient and stable TPSCs.

Coordination dynamics between fuel cell and battery technologies in the transition to clean cars

Significant progress reconciling economic activities with a stable climate requires radical and rapid technological change in multiple sectors. Here, we study the case of the automotive industry's transition to electric vehicles, which involved choosing between two different technologies: fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) or battery electric vehicles (BEVs). We know very little about the role that such technological uncertainty plays in shaping the strategies of firms, the efficacy of technological and climate policies, and the speed of technological transitions. Here, we explain that the choice between these two technologies posed a global and multisectoral coordination game, due to technological complementarities and the global organization of the industry's markets and supply chains. We use data on patents, supply-chain relationships, and national policies to document historical trends and industry dynamics for these two technologies. While the industry initially focused on FCEVs, around 2008, the technological paradigm shifted to BEVs. National-level policies had a limited ability to coordinate global players around a type of clean car technology. Instead, exogenous innovation spillovers from outside the automotive sector played a critical role in solving this coordination game in favor of BEVs. Our results suggest that global and cross-sectoral technology policies may be needed to accelerate low-carbon technological change in other sectors, such as shipping or aviation. This enriches the existing theoretical paradigm, which ignores the scale of interdependencies between technologies and firms.

Advances in Polyvinyl Alcohol-Based Membranes for Fuel Cells: A Comprehensive Review on Types, Synthesis, Modifications, and Performance Optimization.

Fuel cell technology is at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) membranes play an important role in improving performance. This article thoroughly investigates the various varieties of PVA membranes, their production processes, and the numerous modification tactics used to solve inherent problems. Various methods were investigated, including chemical changes, composite blending, and the introduction of nanocomposites. The factors impacting PVA membranes, such as proton conductivity, thermal stability, and selectivity, were investigated to provide comprehensive knowledge. By combining various research threads, this review aims to completely investigate the current state of PVA membranes in fuel cell applications, providing significant insights for both academic researchers and industry practitioners interested in efficient and sustainable energy conversion technologies. The transition from traditional materials such as Nafion to PVA membranes has been prompted by limitations associated with the former, such as complex synthesis procedures, reduced ionic conductivity at elevated temperatures, and prohibitively high costs, which have hampered their widespread adoption. As a result, modern research efforts are increasingly focused on the creation of alternative membranes that can compete with conventional technical efficacy and economic viability in the context of fuel cell technologies.

Green synthesis of [formula omitted]2[formula omitted]4[formula omitted] nanoparticles as effective electrode materials for electrochemical hydrogen and energy storage: A comparative study

Molecular hydrogen is a promising energy carrier and the best potential alternative for environment-damaging fossil fuels. Hydrogen as a secondary clean energy can lead to the development of fuel cell technology. Hydrogen transportation is highly costly due to its low volumetric energy density at ambient temperature and pressure. However, reactive hydrogen can be electrochemically generated in the solid state and occurs either as a surface-adsorbed or lattice-settled species. Herein, the mesoporous structures of LiMn2O4 and NiMn2O4 were prepared by using Aleo Vera extract as a complexing agent. The samples were characterized by various techniques to determine their crystal structures, surface morphology, and porosity. Electrochemical hydrogen storage abilities and the specific capacitance values of as-prepared mixed metal manganese oxides were measured in the 2 M KOH electrolyte solution. The results showed that LiMn2O4 and NiMn2O4 nanoparticles have an excellent specific capacitance of 783 and 552 Fg-1, respectively. The maximum discharge capacities of LiMn2O4 and NiMn2O4 nanoparticles were obtained to be 3605 and 1501 mAh/g after 11 cycles, respectively. The higher and excellent discharge capacity of LiMn2O4 can partially be ascribed to its higher porosity.

Exploring Recent Developments in Graphene-Based Cathode Materials for Fuel Cell Applications: A Comprehensive Overview.

Fuel cells are at the forefront of modern energy research, with graphene-based materials emerging as key enhancers of performance. This overview explores recent advancements in graphene-based cathode materials for fuel cell applications. Graphene's large surface area and excellent electrical conductivity and mechanical strength make it ideal for use in different solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) as well as proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). This review covers various forms of graphene, including graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and doped graphene, highlighting their unique attributes and catalytic contributions. It also examines the effects of structural modifications, doping, and functional group integrations on the electrochemical properties and durability of graphene-based cathodes. Additionally, we address the thermal stability challenges of graphene derivatives at high SOFC operating temperatures, suggesting potential solutions and future research directions. This analysis underscores the transformative potential of graphene-based materials in advancing fuel cell technology, aiming for more efficient, cost-effective, and durable energy systems.

Systematic Engineering of Near-Infrared Small Molecules Based on 4H-Cyclopenta[1,2-b:5,4-b']dithiophene Acceptors for Organic Solar Cells.

Nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) have emerged as tremendous materials, efficiently advancing bulk-heterojunction organic solar cells (OSCs) technology. Unlike their fullerene counterparts, NFAs offer the unique advantage of finely tunable electronic energy levels and optical characteristics, which correspond to substantial enhancement in power conversion efficiency of OSCs. Herein, we have introduced a new series of near-infrared NFAs (AY1-AY8) to advance this technology further. Our research deeply investigates the structure-property relationship and thoroughly explores the optical, optoelectronics, photophysical, and photovoltaic characteristics of a synthetic reference molecule (R) and the modeled AY1-AY8 NFAs series. We performed advanced quantum chemical simulations using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT methods. Additionally, we also estimated key geometric characteristics such as frontier molecular orbitals, hole-electron overlap, density of states, molecular electrostatic potential, molecular excitation and binding energies, transition density matrix, and reorganizational energy of electrons and holes and compared them with those of a synthetic reference molecule (R). Our findings show that all designed materials (AY1-AY8) exhibit red-shift absorption, improved electronic charge mobility, and low binding and excitation energies compared to R. Notably, these designed materials (AY1-AY8) display significantly narrower electronic energy gaps (E g 1.89-1.71 eV), indicating enhanced charge shifting from the highest occupied molecular orbital to lowest unoccupied molecular orbital and broadening of the absorption spectrum. Moreover, we also revealed a comprehensive study of the donor/acceptor complex of PTB7-Th/AY8 to understand charge shifting between donor and acceptor molecules. Therefore, we strongly recommend this designed (AY1-AY8) series to the experimentalists for the future development of highly efficient OSC devices.

On the possibility of using cell technologies in surgical practice

Cell therapy is one of the promising areas of modern medicine. This field has become widespread in many medical specialties, but over the past few years, cell therapy has been attracting more and more attention from specialists in the surgical field. Special attention is paid to therapy based on the use of stem cells, which is explained by their ability to self-renew and differentiate. Due to their properties, stem cells directly act in the wound site, triggering tissue regeneration mechanisms, and some types of stem cells suppress inflammation processes. In surgical practice, the following stem cells are used to correct skin defects and treat wounds: mesenchymal stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells, keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Each type of cell has its own advantages and is used in different directions. Many studies indicate the prospects of using cellular technologies in the treatment of diseases and wounds of various etiologies.

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and CRISPR-Cas9 Innovations for Treating Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and Glycogen Storage Diseases.

Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) and CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technologies have become powerful tools in disease modeling and treatment. By harnessing recent biotechnological advancements, this review aims to equip researchers and clinicians with a comprehensive and updated understanding of the evolving treatment landscape for metabolic and genetic disorders, highlighting how iPSCs provide a unique platform for detailed pathological modeling and pharmacological testing, driving forward precision medicine and drug discovery. Concurrently, CRISPR-Cas9 offers unprecedented precision in gene correction, presenting potential curative therapies that move beyond symptomatic treatment. Therefore, this review examines the transformative role of iPSC technology and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in addressing metabolic and genetic disorders such as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1AD) and glycogen storage disease (GSD), which significantly impact liver and pulmonary health and pose substantial challenges in clinical management. In addition, this review discusses significant achievements alongside persistent challenges such as technical limitations, ethical concerns, and regulatory hurdles. Future directions, including innovations in gene-editing accuracy and therapeutic delivery systems, are emphasized for next-generation therapies that leverage the full potential of iPSC and CRISPR-Cas9 technologies.

Optimization of electrophoretic deposition and thermal treatment of Cu–Mn spinel matrix for spinel/perovskite composite coating used as SOC metallic interconnect

The electrophoretic deposition of a mixture of copper-manganese spinel oxide matrix with perovskite oxide dispersion phase and subsequent two-step sintering was investigated as a means of obtaining a new spinel/perovskite composite coating for application in metallic interconnects for solid oxide cell (SOC) technologies. The effect of a number of factors was examined, including electrophoretic deposition parameters such as solvent type, time, voltage, and dispersant content as well as different heat treatment conditions on the quality of the matrix of the coating material. A solution of ethanol-acetone (25/75 v/v) and 2.0 g L−1 of iodine dispersant with a deposition time of 60 s and a voltage of 60 V provided the thickest, most uniform coating as deposited. SEM observations showed that a dense coating of Cu–Mn spinel was obtained after 8 h of reduction at 1000 °C followed by 6 h of oxidation at 850 °C. Selected preparation parameters were applied to deposit composite coatings with a Cu–Mn spinel matrix and the addition of LNF, LSC and LSCF perovskites.