Search Results (68)

High safety gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) is used in lithium metal solid state batteries, which has the advantages of high energy density, wide temperature range, high safety, and is considered as a subversive new generation battery technology. However, solid-state lithium batteries with multiple layers and large capacity currently have poor cycle life and a large gap between the actual output cycle capacity retention rate and the theoretical level. In this paper, polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene (PVDF-HFP)/polyacrylonitrile (PAN)—lithium perchlorate (LiClO₄)—lithium lanthanum zirconium tantalate (LLZTO) gel polymer electrolytes was prepared by UV curing process using a UV curing machine at a speed of 0.01 m/min for 10 s, with the temperature controlled at 30 °C and wavelength 365 nm. In order to study the performance and failure mechanism of multilayer solid state batteries, single and three layers of solid state batteries with ceramic/polymer composite gel electrolyte were assembled. The results show that the rate and cycle performance of single-layer solid state battery with gel electrolyte are better than those of three-layer solid state battery. As the number of cycles increases, the interface impedance of both single-layer and three-layer electrolyte membrane solid-state batteries shows an increasing trend. Specifically, the three-layer battery impedance increased from 17 Ω to 42 Ω after 100 cycles, while the single-layer battery showed a smaller increase, from 2.2 Ω to 4.8 Ω, indicating better interfacial stability. After 100 cycles, the interface impedance of multi-layer solid-state batteries increases by 9.61 times that of single-layer batteries. After 100 cycles, the corresponding capacity retention rates were 48.9% and 15.6%, respectively. This work provides a new strategy for large capacity solid state batteries with gel electrolyte design. Full article

The operational efficiency of the main steam pipelines at thermal power plants is reduced due to several factors, including operating temperature, pressure, service life, and the frequency of process shutdowns, which contribute to the degradation of heat-resistant steels. The study aims to identify the features of changes in the sizes of grains and carbides along their boundaries, as well as mechanical properties (hardness, strength, plasticity and fracture toughness) along the wall thickness of both pipes in the initial state and after operation with block shutdowns. Preliminary electrolytic hydrogenation of specimens (before tensile tests in air) showed even more clearly the negative consequences of operational degradation of steel. The degradation of steel was also assessed using fracture toughness (J_IC). The value of J_IC for operated steel with a smaller number of shutdowns decreased by 32–33%, whereas with a larger number of shutdowns, its decrease in the vicinity of the outer and inner surfaces of the pipe reached 65 and 61%, respectively. Fractographic signs of more intense degradation of steel after a greater number of shutdowns were manifested at the stage of spontaneous fracture of specimens by changing the mechanism from transgranular cleavage to intergranular, which indicated a decrease in the cohesive strength of grain boundaries. Full article

A 62-year-old female presented to the Emergency Department of the General Hospital of Katerini, Greece, complaining of abdominal pain, fever, and general discomfort. Laboratory tests indicated an elevated white blood cell count and an elevated C-reactive protein level. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed dilated small bowel loops and free intraperitoneal fluid. During laparotomy, extensive ischemia and necrosis of both the small and large bowel were discovered, and a resection of the small bowel and the right colon was performed, leaving the patient with only 90 cm of small intestine and a jejunocolic anastomosis. Postoperative management was particularly challenging, requiring a multidisciplinary approach, an intensive care unit stay, reoperations due to anastomotic leaks, continuous parenteral nutrition and electrolyte management, and aggressive antibiotic treatment for persistent bacterial infections. This case report highlights the importance of appropriate management of this life-threatening complication following extensive bowel resection. Full article

Background: Beach volleyball (BVb) is a highly demanding Olympic sport characterized by intense physical activity and unique environmental challenges, including varying weather conditions and sandy, unstable court surfaces. Despite its popularity, there is a notable lack of scientific research addressing the metabolic and immune responses of elite female athletes in this sport. This study aims to address this gap by investigating two world-class Olympic medalists, female BVb players, who represent a country with a rich history in the sport. Methods: Two athletes underwent a simulated competition day consisting of two matches. A standardized protocol was utilized to collect blood and urine samples at seven time points, allowing for analysis throughout the competition and recovery phases. The analysis included various electrolytes, as well as hematological, metabolic, and inflammatory markers. Additionally, we assessed selected hormones, such as insulin, serotonin, ACTH, and cortisol, along with amino acids related to energy metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. Results: Both athletes presented a trend toward electrolyte disturbances, especially hypokalemia, with a mean decrease of 15% and individual values reaching as low as 3.3 mmol/L post-match. This indicates that BVb may pose a risk for such disturbances. Additionally, the matches led to 20% to 60% increases in muscle injury markers, with incomplete recovery even after a day of rest, signaling persistent physiological stress post-competition. This increase was matched by stimulating stress hormones (ACTH and cortisol rose up to 4-fold and 3-fold, respectively), and markers of exercise intensity, such as lactate and ammonium. Moreover, the simulated BVb competition day impacted the amino acid response, with the Fischer ratio (BCAA/AAA) and blood tryptophan decreasing to a minimum of 60% of the initial levels and blood serotonin increasing by up to 180%, which are signs of an increased risk of central fatigue onset, according to the Fischer and Newsholme theory. Conclusions: The responses examined in this exploratory study contribute to a deeper understanding of the metabolic and immune demands placed on elite female BVb players, suggesting practical applications. By addressing the similar physiological responses observed among the athletes and emphasizing their unique individual responses—despite following the same protocol under identical conditions and sharing similar life habits for an extended period—this study highlights the critical necessity for the n-of-1 monitoring of athletes. Full article

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), crucial in modern advanced energy storage systems, inherently experience several side reactions during operation, with the formation of a solid electrolyte interface (SEI) and lithium plating being the most significant. These side reactions, which deplete lithium ions and lead to the clogging of negative electrode pores, considerably impair the battery’s cycle life and overall performance. This study introduces a numerical model for the battery aging process, grounded in existing research on SEI formation and its temperature-dependent aging kinetics. The model aims to elucidate how variations in the porosity of the negative electrode impact the battery’s cycle life. The study initially focuses on analyzing the principal mechanisms behind pore clogging in LIBs’ negative electrodes following extensive charge/discharge cycles. Subsequently, the study conducts numerical simulations to thoroughly investigate the effects of various non-uniform porosity structures in the negative electrode, encompassing both linear and gradient configurations, on the battery’s cycle life. Additionally, the investigation conducts a comparative analysis to determine how different gradients in porosity structures influence pore clogging. It also delves into a detailed exploration of heat generation associated with the linear porosity structure of the negative electrode. The results indicate that the accumulation of the SEI layer significantly reduces porosity. This reduction, in turn, affects the conductivity and alters the current density during the SEI reaction. Notably, the linear porosity structure exhibits a significant advantage over traditional structures, especially in terms of reducing pore clogging and minimizing irreversible heat generation. In summary, this study presents a multi-physics and detailed numerical model to evaluate the impact of variations in negative electrode porosity on the cycle life of LIBs. Furthermore, it provides essential theoretical support for battery design and performance optimization, particularly in the determination of pore structures and material selection. Full article

Gel electrolytes (GEs) play a pivotal role in the advancement of lithium metal batteries by offering high energy density and enhanced rate capability. Nevertheless, their real-world application is hampered by relatively low ionic conductivity and significant interfacial resistance at room temperatures. In this work, we developed a gel electrolyte membrane (GEM) by embedding Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) material into a poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) matrix through UV curing. The composite membrane, with 4 wt% ZIF-8, exhibited an ionic conductivity of 1.17 × 10⁻³ S/cm, an electrochemical stability window of 4.7 V, and a lithium-ion transference number of 0.7. The test results indicate that the electrochemical performance of LFP//GEM//Li battery has an initial specific capacity of 168 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 C rate. At 1 C, the discharge capacity was 88 mAh g⁻¹, and at 2 C, it was 68 mAh g⁻¹. Enhanced ionic transport, improved electrochemical stability, and optimized lithium-ion migration collectively contributed to superior rate performance and prolonged cycle life. This study offers novel insights and methodological advances for next-generation lithium metal batteries technologies. Full article

The hydrogen (H₂) economy is seen as a crucial pathway for decarbonizing the energy system, with green H₂—i.e., obtained from water electrolysis supplied by renewable energy—playing a key role as an energy carrier in this transition. The growing interest in H₂ comes from its versatility, which means that H₂ can serve as a raw material or energy source, and various technologies allow it to be produced from a wide range of resources. Environmental impacts of H₂ production have primarily focused on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, despite other environmental aspects being equally relevant in the context of a sustainable energy transition. In this context, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies of H₂ supply chains have become more common. This paper aims to compile and analyze discrepancies and convergences among recent reported values from 42 scientific studies related to different H₂ production pathways. Technologies related to H₂ transportation, storage and use were not investigated in this study. Three environmental indicators were considered: Global Warming Potential (GWP), Energy Performance (EP), and Water Consumption (WF), from an LCA perspective. The review showed that H₂ based on wind, photovoltaic and biomass energy sources are a promising option since it provides lower GWP, and higher EP compared to conventional fossil H₂ pathways. However, WF can be higher for H₂ derived from biomass. LCA boundaries and methodological choices have a great influence on the environmental indicators assessed in this paper which leads to great variability in WF results as well as GWP variation due credits given to avoid GHG emissions in upstream process. In the case of EI, the inclusion of energy embodied in renewable energy systems demonstrates great influence of upstream phase for electrolytic H₂ based on wind and photovoltaic electricity. Full article

Anode-free lithium-ion batteries offer a volumetric energy density approximately 60% higher than that of conventional lithium-ion cells. Despite this advantage, they often experience rapid capacity degradation and a limited cycle life. Optimizing electrolyte formulations—particularly through the use of specific additives, solvents, and lithium salts—is essential to improving these systems. This study explores electrolytes composed of fluorinated and carbonate-based solvents applied in anode-free lithium-ion cells featuring copper as the anode substrate and Li_1.05Ni_0.33Mn_0.33Co_0.33O₂ as the cathode. In the present work, the ionic conductivity of electrolytes was studied by impedance spectroscopy, and the electrochemical parameters of anode-free lithium-ion cells were compared using these electrolyte solutions: lithium difluoro(oxalato)borat (LIDFOB) salts were used in a mixture of solvents such as fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) and dimethoxyethane (DME) in a ratio of 3:7 and in a mixture of propylene carbonate (PC) and dimethoxyethane in a ratio of 3:7. Enhanced performance was observed upon the substitution of conventional carbonates with fluorinated co-solvents. The findings suggest that LiDFOB is a thermostable salt, and its high conductivity contributes to the formation and stabilization of the interface of solid electrolytes. The results indicate that at low temperature conditions, a double salt should be used for lithium current sources, for example, 0.4 M LiDFOB and 0.6 M LiBF₄, as well as electrolyte additives such as fluoroethylene carbonate and lithium nitrate. Full article

Objective: This study assessed the utility of capillary blood cartridge-based analysis in evaluating neonatal jitteriness (NJ). Methods: In this retrospective study, we compared outcomes between neonates (37–41 weeks of gestation) diagnosed with neonatal jitteriness (NJ) within the first 72 h of life and a control group of healthy neonates (GA 37–41 weeks) with an uneventful perinatal course and no signs of jitteriness. Results: Each group included 101 neonates. Jittery neonates had a higher proportion of males (70.3% vs. 50.5%, p = 0.004), a lower mean gestational age (38.8 vs. 39.2 weeks, p = 0.002), and a higher rate of emergency cesarean deliveries (14.9% vs. 3.0%, p = 0.003). The logistic regression identified male sex (OR = 2.5, p = 0.007) and in utero selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) exposure (OR = 9.0, p = 0.005) as significant risk factors for NJ. The capillary blood parameters, except glucose levels, did not differ significantly between the neonates admitted to the NICU and those discharged. Hypoglycemic jittery neonates were 10 times more likely to require NICU admission compared to their non-hypoglycemic counterparts (OR = 10.9, 95% CI: 2–59.5, p = 0.006). Conclusions: Point-of-care glucose testing using a bedside glucometer may be sufficient for the evaluation of neonatal jitteriness, as capillary blood cartridge-based testing did not offer an additional diagnostic value. What is Known: NJ is often viewed as a self-resolving benign phenomenon; however, in certain cases, it can be an indicator of an underlying pathology. There is substantial evidence linking the maternal use of SSRIs or SNRIs during pregnancy with the occurrence of NJ in newborns as well as an association between hypoglycemia and NJ. What is New: This study is the first to evaluate the clinical utility of systematic capillary blood cartridge-based testing in jittery neonates using a relatively large cohort. Male neonates were disproportionately represented among cases of NJ. Healthy neonates with jitteriness had normal electrolytes, with hypoglycemia as the only concern. A glucometer test may suffice for evaluation, but those who are small for their gestational age or have initial hypoglycemia require a routine follow-up due to a higher risk of NICU admission. Full article

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of native ground-grown perennials in floral compositions as cut greenery. The easily available plant materials that can replace some exotic species include Hosta leaves and the leafy shoots of Polygonatum multiflorum. Their vase life should be at least as long as that of the flowers, with which they are combined. In order to prolong the vase life of cut greenery, the conditioning of cut plant material in solutions of plant hormones (GA3 and BA) and commercial conditioning substances (8HQC and Chrysal Clear 2) is most commonly performed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different conditioning solutions on vase life and parameters indicating the progression of the senescence of plant materials. Cut Hosta leaves and leafy shoots of Polygonatum multiflorum were conditioned immediately after cutting for 24 h in aqueous solutions of benzyladenine (BA) and gibberellic acid (GA₃), 8HQC standard medium with the addition of 2% sucrose and 1% Chrysal Clear 2 solution. The post-harvest storage and physiological senescence parameters of the plant materials were analyzed using the following indicators: the vase life, the relative water content (RWC), electrolyte leakage (E_L), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and pigment contents (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids, and anthocyanins). Conditioning Hosta leaves in a BA solution at 100 mg L⁻¹ immediately after cutting more than doubles their post-harvest vase life. The longevity of P. multiflorum shoots can be effectively extended by storage in a BA solution of 400 mg L⁻¹, for 24 h. Both the plant materials responded to the progressive aging process with the disruption of water management, a reduction in cytoplasmic membrane integrity, and a decrease in the plant pigment content. Tissue water retention in the Hosta leaves was most favorably affected by conditioning in the GA₃ solution at a concentration of 400 mg L⁻¹. The P. multiflorum shoots responded with tissue water retention to conditioning in 1% Chrysal Clear 2 solution. The conditioning of Hosta leaves in BA solution at 400 mg L⁻¹ stabilized the cytoplasmic membranes and inhibited E_L most effectively. In P. multiflorum, the lowest E_L level was found as an effect of conditioning the shoots in GA₃ solution at 200 mg L⁻¹. The degradation of assimilation pigments was prevented by conditioning the Hosta leaves in GA₃ solution at 200 mg L⁻¹ and the P. multiflorum leafy shoots in GA₃ solution, regardless of the concentration used. Although the prolongation of the vase life of the cut leaves and the shoots by up to 30 days was achieved, along with an improvement in the appearance of the plant materials, it was not possible to identify a single conditioner that had a positive effect on all the parameters studied. Full article

The tailored crystalline configuration coupled with submicron particles would be conducive to superior ionic conductivity, which could further improve the cycle life of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Here, manganese phosphide (Mn_5.64P₃) particles with hexagonal crystal structure embedded into nitrogen/phosphorus (N/P) co-doped carbon shells (Mn_5.64P₃-C) are successfully prepared by the self-template and recrystallization–self-assembly method. The electrochemical properties of as-synthesized Mn_5.64P₃-C as anode materials for LIBs are systematically investigated. The XRD and HRTEM combined with SAED indicate that the prepared Mn_5.64P₃-C hybrid with the ratio of 1:10 of Mn:C present a hexagonal crystal structure covered with a carbon layer. During charging/discharging at the current density of 0.5 A g⁻¹, the Mn_5.64P₃-C electrode exhibits the reversible capacity of 160 mAh g⁻¹ after 3000 cycles with high-capacity retention. The ex-situ XRD of initial discharge/charge process at different voltages implies that the Mn_5.64P₃ could be transformed to the amorphous Li_xMn_yP_z. The N/P co-doped carbon shells can provide high specific area for electrolyte infiltration, and act as the buffer matrix to suppress the loss of the Mn_5.64P₃ active material during cycling. The Mn_5.64P₃ with the hexagonal crystal structure and N/P co-doped carbon shells could promote the further optimization and development of manganese phosphide for high-performance LIBs. Full article

Indian jujube fruit is prone to perishing, resulting in a shorter shelf life after harvest. Kadozan is a liquid chitosan formulation that has a significant effect on fruit preservation. In order to explore its efficacy, the quality, and storability indicators of Indian jujube fruit were evaluated during storage at 15 ± 1 °C for 18 days. Results showed that Kadozan-treated fruit exhibited lower respiration rate, relative electrolyte leakage rate, weight loss, and decay index, along with higher firmness and commercially acceptable rate. Furthermore, Kadozan-treated fruit showed higher vitamin C, total sugar, titratable acid, total soluble solids, chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents, L* and h° values, but lower a* and b* values. Principal component analysis and comprehensive score revealed that Kadozan treatment helped preserve the appearance and nutritional qualities of Indian jujube fruit. The best effect was seen with 1:600 Kadozan among three concentrations (1:300, 1:600, 1:900). It was discovered that the commercially acceptable rate of 1:600 Kadozan-treated fruit was 37.5% higher than control fruit while the decay index was 30.5% lower than control fruit at 18 days. Therefore, Kadozan treatment has great substantial implications for the preservation of Indian jujube fruit, providing practical guidance for reducing its postharvest losses. Full article

Life cycle assessment, which evaluates the complete life cycle of a product, is considered the standard methodological framework to evaluate the environmental performance of climate change solutions. However, significant challenges exist related to datasets used to quantify these environmental indicators. Although extensive research and commercial data on climate change technologies, pathways, and facilities exist, they are not readily available to practitioners of life cycle assessment in the right format and structure using an open platform. In this study, we propose a new open data hub platform for life cycle assessment, considering a hierarchical data flow starting with raw data collected on climate change technologies at laboratory, pilot, demonstration, or commercial scales to provide the information required for policy and decision-making. This platform makes data accessible at multiple levels for practitioners of life cycle assessment, while making data interoperable across platforms. The proposed data hub platform and workflow are explained through the polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysis hydrogen production as a case study. The climate change environment impact of 1.17 ± 0.03 kg CO₂ eq./kg H₂ was calculated for the case study. The current data hub platform is limited to evaluating environmental impacts; however, future additions of economic and social aspects are envisaged. Full article

Background/Objectives: Abdominal ostomy surgery has a severe impact on individuals’ daily lives. These procedures are typically indicated for conditions such as cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or traumatic injuries. They involve creating an artificial opening, denominated the stoma, in the abdominal area to divert feces or urine, establishing a connection between the affected organs and the body’s exterior. Thus, specialized products to collect the body fluids are required, being effective and tailored products crucial to enhance the quality of life of such patients. Methods: This paper presents a review of fecal fluid collection devices and advanced technologies designed to assist patients with ostomies. The study aims to identify the known bags/devices and evaluate their attributed performance in enhancing the population’s physical and social quality of life. This review is based on a systematic search conducted between 20 February and 2 March 2024, in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Google Patents databases. Articles published within the last eight years from this period were included in the analysis. Results: The devices found in the study were classified as passive, requiring active monitoring by the user, and active, providing automated assistance. Three main categories were identified, reflecting the most significant concerns of patients: (1) devices that control fluid leakage, reducing peristomal dermatological problems; (2) devices that minimize odors and noise, reducing social embarrassment; and (3) devices that monitor fluid volume, helping with electrolyte balance, especially in patients with ileostomies. Conclusions: This study revealed that the existing devices meet primary collection and disposal needs. However, introducing smart devices could offer greater control and confidence to users, providing real-time information on gas pressure, stool texture, and accumulated volume. Thus, overall, the development of advanced technologies can significantly improve patients’ quality of life, restore social confidence, and enable a more effective management of the condition by sharing information with medical teams. Full article

Post-harvest pre-cooling of water bamboo shoots (WBS) [Zizania latifolia] can effectively delay its quality deterioration. Six types of pre-cooling treatments were used to pre-cooling post-harvest WBS, including cold slightly acidic electrolytic water pre-cooling (CSAEW), cold water pre-cooling (CWPC), vacuum pre-cooling (VPC), strong wind pre-cooling (SWPC), refrigerator pre-cooling (RPC), and fluid ice pre-cooling (FIPC). The effects of different pre-cooling treatments on the quality of refrigerated WBS were investigated. The results showed that the FIPC treatment was harmful to the storage quality of WBS, while the other five pre-cooling treatments could extend the shelf life of WBS to some extent. These pre-cooling treatments can inhibit the respiration of WBS, slow down its weight loss and lignification process, and maintain its relatively high levels of nutrient content and antioxidant activity. The CSAEW treatment outperformed other treatments in terms of bactericidal action and microbiological content control for WBS during storage. The protective effect of CSAEW treatment on the storage quality of WBS was relatively the best, and extended the shelf life of WBS by 12 days compared to the control group. This study indicated that the CSAEW pre-cooling treatment offers a new choice for pre-cooling root vegetables. Full article