Combined Benefits Research Articles

High-intensity interval swimming improves cardiovascular endurance, while aquatic resistance training enhances muscular strength in older adults

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of free swimming (FS), aquatic resistance training (ART), and their combination (FS&ART) on the body composition, blood pressure, and physical fitness of older adults. The study employed a randomized controlled design, comparing three experimental groups with a control group. Eighty volunteers aged between sixty and seventy years (age: 66.2 ± 2.3 years; body mass index: 25.8 ± 4.3 kg/m²) participated in the 16-week intervention, consisting of two weekly sessions. Assessments were conducted at baseline and post-intervention, including anthropometric measurements, blood pressure readings, and the Senior Fitness Test. Significant differences were found between groups in post-intervention considering the chair stand test (p = 0.017; ES = 0.125), arm curl test (p = 0.029; ES = 0.111), 8-foot up and go test (p = 0.042; ES = 0.102), and walk test − 6 min (p = 0.005; ES = 0.156). Specifically, both ART (+ 20.1%; p < 0.05) and FS&ART (+ 19.5%; p < 0.05) showed significantly greater improvements in the chair stand test compared to the control group. Similarly, ART (+ 23.1%; p < 0.05) and FS&ART (+ 18.7%; p < 0.05) performed better than the control group. FS&ART also exhibited a significant improvement over the control group in the 8-foot up-and-go test (+ 14.6%; p < 0.05). In the 6-minute walk test, FS (+ 19.4%; p < 0.05) and FS&ART (+ 15.9%; p < 0.05) both significantly outperformed the control group. This study found that FS improves cardiovascular endurance, while ART enhances muscular strength and endurance in older adults, with combined benefits for agility, suggesting integration of combined modalities into community wellness initiatives for enhanced physical fitness and health outcomes.

Beyond aquifer boundaries: unveiling the multi-dimensional value of groundwater management in Jeju, Korea

ABSTRACT This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of groundwater valuation in Jeju Island, Korea, which relies heavily on groundwater resources. The research addresses the limitations of conventional valuation methodologies that often undervalue groundwater management and ignore spatial heterogeneity. We employ three non-market valuation aggregation methods: local benefit, national benefit, and a combined heterogeneous benefit approach. The heterogeneous benefit approach divides the population into groups based on their distinct groundwater valuations and then consolidates their willingness to pay. Using a contingent valuation method, we analyze survey data from 542 respondents in Jeju and 1,000 respondents nationwide to capture the comprehensive value of improving groundwater quality, considering both local and non-local dependencies. Results show that national benefits exceed local benefits by a factor of 21.4, and this disparity increases to 21.6 when spatial heterogeneity is included. These findings highlight a significant underestimation in previous studies focusing solely on local beneficiaries. Our approach enhances understanding of the varied values attributed to groundwater by different populations, providing crucial insights for sustainable water resource management

Phytocannabinoids as Chemotherapy Adjuncts—A Review for Users

Cancer, one of the leading causes of death worldwide, is on the rise. The high toxicity of conventional chemotherapy, often applied as drug cocktails, and the development of resistance limit the use of antineoplastic drugs and reduce the quality of life. With easier access, a growing number of patients are using cannabis (cannabinoids) for alleviation of their symptoms, and in the hope of improving survival. This article summarizes results observed with combinations of phytocannabinoids and standard chemotherapeutic agents in animal tumour models and in patients. It is limited to approved phytocannabinoids. Preliminary preclinical data suggest that conventional antineoplastic agents combined with cannabinoids exert enhanced anti-cancer effects, reduce resistance development and improve survival. Corresponding experiences with patients are still very limited and only concern a few patients with glioblastoma and pancreatic cancer. Benefits of combinations containing cannabinoids have also been reported for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite (dronabinol), and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathic pain and anxiety (cannabidiol). In addition, phytocannabinoids, particularly cannabidiol, may play a role in protecting organs such as the heart, lungs or kidneys from chemotherapy-related toxicity. Although the results are promising, more research is needed to ensure whether the benefits of adjuvant cannabinoids outweigh the potential risks.

Optimizing soil conservation through comprehensive benefit assessment in river basins

Land degradation from water erosion poses a significant threat to water security and ecosystem stability, driving global efforts in soil conservation. Quantitative assessment of soil conservation benefits—both on-site and off-site—is crucial for guiding effective conservation strategies. However, existing methodologies often fall short in quantifying the value of these combined benefits. Here, we present a comprehensive framework for quantifying soil conservation service flows in monetary terms, evaluating the effectiveness of both on-site and off-site measures. Applying this framework to the Yellow River Basin (YRB), we employ cost-avoidance algorithms related to soil fertility maintenance, dredging cost reduction, and mitigation of nonpoint source pollution. Our results reveal that while many areas contribute to both on-site and off-site benefits, over half of the YRB relies predominantly on off-site services. By strategically enhancing key regions—which constitute 30% of the basin—we demonstrate that the overall soil conservation service supply can increase by 64.2% over the multi-year average from 2001 to 2020 compared to a consideration of on-site only. These findings underscore the essential role of off-site services in fully understanding soil conservation needs, particularly in large river basins, and the identified priority areas can offer valuable insights for optimizing soil conservation efforts.

Implementation of NLC‐SHM based novel PWM scheme on packed U‐cell multilevel inverter

AbstractThis article introduces a novel integrated nearest level controller (NLC) combined with selective harmonic mitigation (SHM) control approach aimed at efficiently suppressing lower‐order harmonics has been introduced. The proposed methodology is implemented on the PUC‐7 inverter topology, leveraging the combined benefits offered by both NLC and SHM controllers through a hybrid model. The proposed method demonstrates the capability to reduce lower‐order harmonics up to the 49th harmonic from the load voltage. The particle swarm optimization algorithm is employed to determine optimal switching angles and their corresponding nearest levels, thereby reducing implementation time, computational complexity, and overall system intricacy. The performance analysis of the proposed control strategy across various scenarios, including fluctuations in modulation index and monitoring diverse parameters such as load dynamics has been performed. This approach yields a significant reduction in total harmonic distortion in both load voltage and current. A comparative analysis between NLC, selective harmonic mitigation (SHM), and the integrated NLC‐SHM approach is carried out on the PUC‐7 inverter. The integrated SHM‐NLC control is implemented and validated using the MATLAB Simulink environment, complemented by hardware‐based experimentation, to ascertain its effectiveness.

Use of Dispersible Fixed-Dose Combinations in Chemotherapy of Drug Susceptible Tuberculosis: Results of the Observational Study

The objective: to assess effectiveness, safety and pharmacoeconomic feasibility of using a dispersible fixed-dose combination (isoniazid 150 mg, rifampicin 150 mg, pyrazinamide 375 mg) in patients with respiratory tuberculosis and preserved susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) to anti-tuberculosis drugs.Subjects and Methods. A post-registration observational study was conducted to assess treatment effectiveness of pulmonary tuberculosis in 60 adult patients with drug susceptible tuberculosis. In Main Group, patients received the fixed-dose combination (isoniazid 150 mg, rifampicin 150 mg, pyrazinamide 375 mg), while in Control Group, patients were treated with the regimen consisting of single anti-tuberculosis drugs.Results. Sputum conversion rate made 76.7% by the end of the intensive phase (60 doses) when replacing isoniazid, rifampicin and pyrazinamide with the dispersible fixed-dose combination, while with the standard choice of drugs, it was 66.7%. The incidence of adverse reactions was 7-fold lower when using the investigational drug which contributed to a high level of adherence and high effectiveness of therapy. Pharmacoeconomic analysis convincingly demonstrated advantages and economic benefits of the dispersible fixed-dose combination (isoniazid 150 mg, rifampicin 150 mg, pyrazinamide 375 mg), which was more costly than the combination of single drugs.

Indium oxide decorated graphitic carbon nitride/multiwalled carbon nanotubes ternary composite for supercapacitor applications

A hybrid ternary composite In2O3/g-C3N4/MWCNT (GCI) was synthesized by combining three-dimensional In2O3, two-dimensional g-C3N4, and one-dimensional MWCNTs employing a one-pot solvothermal method. The resulting In2O3/g-C3N4/MWCNTs composite leverages the combined benefits of the integration of different dimensionality materials and the synergy between its components. Integrating 1D, 2D, and 3-D materials can create hybrid structures with 3D architectures. It exhibits hierarchical porosity that provides better conductive pathways for ion transport and improves the rate performance. The distinct spatial structure of the composite with short ion diffusion paths maximizes the exposure of the active sites and enhances the conductivity, leading to superior energy storage performance. The electrochemical assessment of the In2O3/g-C3N4/MWCNTs composite exhibited a remarkable specific capacitance of 1081 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 with a commendable capacitance retention of 97.5 % at 3 A g−1 over 5000 cycles. An asymmetric supercapacitor fabricated using In2O3/g-C3N4/MWCNT//AC showcased a notable energy density of 57.5 Wh Kg−1 with an impressive power density of 2760 W Kg−1 at 1 A g−1. The outstanding electrochemical attributes of the fabricated device underscore the potential of the material for future applications in hybrid energy storage systems.

Examining the combined benefits of photobiomodulation and apigenin for the treatment of asthenozoospermia: An innovative therapeutic strategy.

Individuals suffering from asthenospermia, an infertility disorder, have reduced sperm motility. This study's goal was to identify the impacts of diverse photobiomodulation procedures on the motility of sperm in vitro in patients with asthenospermia, either in isolation or in combination with Apigenin. At 633 nm and 808 nm, the lasers are used with multiple dose values (0.6, 1.2, and 2.4) J/cm2 and altering Apigenin concentrations (5, 10, 25, and 50 μM). All of the photobiomodulation procedures were assessed. Assessing factors were the DNA fragmentation index, sperm viability, as well as progressive sperm motility. The progressive sperm motility results for 633 nm and 808 nm show a significant increase over 633 nm + 808 nm after 60 min after irradiation. Sperm motility increased more quickly under the 808 nm procedure than under the other procedures (p < 0.02). The observation of progressive sperm motility indicated that a 10 μM concentration of Apigenin created higher results than other concentrations (p < 0.01). Apigenin with 808 nm at 1.2 J/cm2 resulted in better sperm motility (p < 0.01) and decreased DNA fragmentation index.There was a notable increase (p < 0.05) in the DNA fragmentation index with the 633 nm + 808 nm procedure. At a 10 μM concentration of Apigenin, the DNA fragmentation index was lower than at a 50 μM concentration (p < 0.02). Neither Apigenin nor photobiomodulation significantly decreased sperm viability. The study suggests that asthenozoospermia patients may benefit from apigenin utilized alongside photobiomodulation, while further investigation is required.

Design and performance evaluation of a solar-assisted biogas and air-source heat pump hybrid system for radiant heating applications

Energy and environmental crises have become critical challenges, making the efficient use of clean energy a focus of public attention. Although emerging clean energies have high economic and environmental values, these single energy sources are not well-developed. In colder climates, maintaining a stable fermentation temperature can be difficult, leading to the idling of many biogas digesters. Furthermore, despite extensive research on solar-assisted air-source heat pumps, these systems perform poorly in cold climates with low solar irradiance. To address these issues, this study investigates the integration of a solar-assisted biogas and air-source heat pump hybrid heating system (SBHP-HHS) for capillary radiant heating in rural North China, specifically adapted to local conditions. The system aims to utilize the combined benefits of various clean energy sources to improve system reliability in harsh climates. By combining experimental analysis with TRNSYS simulation, the system performance during the heating season in rural northern China was evaluated. Experimental results show that the hybrid system, utilizing the radiant capillary terminal, is capable of maintaining room temperatures above 20 °C, demonstrating its effectiveness. Simulation results show that the air-source heat pump achieves a coefficient of performance (COP) of 4.6. This efficiency level is generally favorable, ensuring stable operation. Additionally, the system achieves a solar-biogas hybrid utilization rate exceeding 75 % and a primary energy-saving rate of 78 %. Economically, the system offers an 8.23-year dynamic payback period and annual cost savings of 3055 CNY. Environmentally, it reduces CO2 emissions by 4263.6 kg annually. This study provides a solid experimental foundation for further research, offering empirical evidence to optimize system performance.

Synergistic effect of SGO/Nickel cobalt sulfide nanocomposite on Ni-foam for supercapacitor performance with widened potential windows − A microwave-assisted synthesis

Designing of high-performance supercapacitors with superior energy storage capabilities is crucial for addressing the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. In this study, we investigate the synergistic effect of a sulfonated graphene oxide (SGO) /nickel-cobalt sulfide (NiCoS) nanocomposite on Ni-foam for supercapacitor applications. The SGO/NiCoS nanocomposite exhibits improved electrochemical performance, including increased specific capacitance, enhanced rate capability, and widened operating potential windows. The material exhibits a high energy density of 117.76 Wh/kg and a power density of 503.24 W/kg. The ASC also showed superior electrochemical stability, retaining 90 % of its coulombic efficiency after 10,000 cycles. The combination of NiCoS and SGO on Ni-foam significantly augments energy and power density, making it an attractive material for advanced supercapacitors. The microwave-assisted synthesis technique employed in this study enables rapid and uniform heating, reducing reaction times and improving selectivity. This work demonstrates the potential of SGO/ NiCoS nanocomposites on Ni-foam for supercapacitors, highlighting the benefits of synergistic material combinations and efficient synthesis methods.

Probiotic powder with polysaccharides from Wolfiporia cocos alleviates antibiotic-associated diarrhea by modulating immune activities and gut microbiota

To enhance immunomodulatory effects of lyophilized probiotics, we screened a new lyophilizing protective agent, that is Wolfiporia cocos polysaccharide (WP). This study demonstrated WP significantly increased the survival rate among seven polysaccharides, with the optimal dosage being 10 % (w/v). The ratio of bacterial suspension to lyophilizing protective agent was 1:2, in the condition, the probiotic survival rate of probiotics reached 83.06 %. Probiotic powder with WP (PWP) showed superior improvement in immune regulation and gut microbiota in antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) mice compared to powder without WP. It notably increased IgM, IgG and IgA contents, and enhanced the activity of macrophage cells in the abdominal cavity. Furthermore, PWP exhibited the combined benefits of both the WP and PP in regulating the gut microbiota homeostasis, inhibiting the dysbiosis of the gut microbiota reflected in a significant increase in Proteobacteria, such as Sutterella, and decrease in Bacteroidetes, such as Muribaculaceae induced by AAD. Additionally, the correlation analysis indicated Sutterella had negative correlations with the immunomodulatory activities, meanwhile Muribaculace had positive correlations with the immunomodulatory activities. Overall, PWP could regulate the abundances of gut microbiota, thereby modulating immune activities and alleviating antibiotic-associated diarrhea, providing valuable insights for the development and application of WP in probiotics.

Enhancing CO2 photoreduction efficiency with MXene-modified ZnO@Co3O4 double heterojunction

The photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into energy carriers holds significant industrial appeal, but achieving this process kinetically remains challenging due to the lack of well-designed catalysts. This study presents a novel 2D/3D nanostructured photocatalyst, developed by attaching a few-layer Ti3C2 MXene to polyethylenimine (PEI)-modified ZnO@CO3O4 nanocages, which are derived from a bimetallic zinc-cobalt ZIF. The resulting Mx-PEI-ZnO@Co3O4 catalyst achieved impressive yields of CO and CH4 at 594.37 and 42.67μmol g−1h−1, respectively, without the need for sacrificial agents and photosensitizers, and maintained remarkable stability across multiple cycles. These yields represent the highest performance for ZnO-based catalysts to date, with quantum efficiency at 380 nm reached up to 25.06 %. The unique S-scheme and Mott-Schottky junctions, along with enhanced CO2 adsorption and hydrogen-bond interactions facilitated by the conductive PEI within the Ti3C2/ZnO/Co3O4 double heterojunctions, effectively inhibit electron-hole recombination and significantly enhance CO2 photoreduction performance. This study underscores the combined benefits of double heterojunction engineering, PEI-functionalized CO2 uptake, and MXene co-catalyst integration within a single system, proposing a new approach for designing highly efficient photocatalysts for solar-driven CO2 reduction in energy-efficient fuel production.

Elevated asymmetric supercapacitor with the nickel-metal organic framework derived nickel oxide/nickel composite: Designed to optimize efficiency and reliability

In this study, a solvothermal method is used to synthesizes MOF-derived NiO/Ni composites and NiO samples at various calcination temperatures (350 °C, 450 °C, 550 °C, and 650 °C) and durations (4, 5, 6, and 7 h). The NiO/Ni sample calcined at 450 °C for 5 h (NiO/Ni-450) exhibits the highest specific capacitance (Cs) of 410 Fg⁻¹ at a scan rate of 5 mV s⁻¹. This superior performance results from the combined benefits of Ni's metallic conductivity and NiO's redox activity. In a 1 M KOH electrolyte, NiO/Ni-450 retains about 83 % of its initial capacitance after 2,000 cycles. The NiO sample formed by calcining NiO/Ni-450 for 5 h (H5) achieves a specific capacitance (Cs) of 371 Fg⁻¹ and retains 80 % of its capacitance after 2,000 cycles. NiO/Ni-450 and H5 demonstrate energy densities (Ed) of 8.58 and 5.48 Wh kg⁻¹, and power densities (Pd) of 608 and 500 W kg⁻¹, respectively. An asymmetric supercapacitor using NiO/Ni-450 and activated carbon (AC) shows an impressive 80 % capacitance retention after 9,000 cycles, with a Cs of 123 Fg⁻¹, and Ed and Pd values of 14.58 Wh kg⁻¹ and 4038 W kg⁻¹, respectively, highlighting the potential for industrial-scale production of these materials for energy storage.

The Antifungal Activity of Chitosan Nanoparticle-Incorporated Probiotics Against Oral Candidiasis.

Candida species, especially Candida albicans, cause oral candidiasis, also known as oral thrush. It affects the elderly, newborns, patients under antibiotics, chemotherapeutic agents, and patients with weaker immune systems. Although successful, traditional antifungal medications are available, they may have negative effects and do not prevent recurrence. Conventional antifungal medications have a restricted range of effectiveness; hence, the need for a novel antifungal agent arises. Chitosan, a natural polymer made from chitin found in crustaceans, kills fungal cells by damaging membranes. Excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability make it a promising medical material. Probiotics, live bacteria, compete with pathogenic microbes for adhesion sites and nutrients, produce antimicrobials such as lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and bacteriocins, and modulate the host's immunological response. Adding probiotics to chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) boosts their antifungal activity against Candida species and increases their stability and transport to the infection site. The antifungal activity was evaluated through in vitro experiments utilizing Candida strains that are significant to oral candidiasis. Different concentrations of CSNPs and formulations loaded with probiotics were examined to assess their effectiveness. The antifungal properties were assessed using microbiological assays, specifically agar diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The study demonstrated a notable fungicidal impact of CSNPs combined with probiotics against oral candidiasis. Furthermore, the MICvalues were lower for the probiotic-loaded CSNPs than for chitosan alone or probiotics alone. The combination of CSNPs and probiotics shows potential in effectively combating oral candidiasis by inhibiting fungal growth. This novel method offers a promising strategy for creating therapeutic treatments for oral candidiasis by utilizing the combined benefits of chitosan and probiotics to combat fungal infections effectively.

A mathematical insight to control the disease psoriasis using mesenchymal stem cell transplantation with a biologic inhibitor

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious, immune-mediated skin disorder. Inflammation of the skin’s surface is characterised by scaly white, red, or silvery spots that occur due to the hyper-proliferation of keratinocytes in the epidermal layer. Primarily, pharmaceutical drugs or immune therapy are used to treat psoriasis. We are all aware that, certain therapeutic strategies can have some adverse effects, and over time, that hidden inflammation may manifest. This article introduces a mathematical model for psoriasis, formulated by employing a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) that describe the densities of T-cells, dendritic cells (DCs), keratinocytes, and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) as basic cell populations. A tumor necrosis factor-α\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\alpha$$\\end{document} (TNF-α\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$TNF-\\alpha$$\\end{document}) inhibitor has been imposed from the initial stage of the treatment regime, using the optimal control theoretic approach, and the numerical results have been observed. After 80 days of monitoring using only biologic TNF-α\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$TNF-\\alpha$$\\end{document} inhibitors, if this approach did not provide the intended outcomes (when severity arises), stem cells are administered a few times in a pulsed manner as a cell replacement technique in addition to this anti TNF-α\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$TNF-\\alpha$$\\end{document} medicine. We have observed the combined therapeutic benefit of stem cell replacement with a TNF-α\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$TNF-\\alpha$$\\end{document} inhibitor from a mathematical point of view. The theoretical analysis and the numerical results revealed that stem cell transplantation, along with a TNF-α\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$TNF-\\alpha$$\\end{document} inhibitor, is a promising psoriasis treatment option moving forward.

Potent combination benefit of the AKT inhibitor capivasertib and the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax in diffuse large B cell lymphoma.

The therapeutic potential of targeting PI3K/AKT/PTEN signalling in B-cell malignancies remains attractive. Whilst PI3K-α/δ inhibitors demonstrate clinical benefit in certain B-cell lymphomas, PI3K signalling inhibitors have been inadequate in relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in part, due to treatment related toxicities. Clinically, AKT inhibitors exhibit a differentiated tolerability profile offering an alternative approach for treating patients with B-cell malignancies. To explore how AKT inhibition complements other potential therapeutics in the treatment of DLBCL patients, an in vitro combination screen was conducted across a panel of DLCBL cell lines. The AKT inhibitor, capivasertib, in combination with the BCL-2 inhibitor, venetoclax, produced notable therapeutic benefit in preclinical models of DLBCL. Capivasertib and venetoclax rapidly induced caspase and PARP cleavage in GCB-DLBCL PTEN wildtype cell lines and those harbouring PTEN mutations or reduced PTEN protein, driving prolonged tumour growth inhibition in DLBCL cell line and patient derived xenograft lymphoma models. The addition of the rituximab further deepened the durability of capivasertib and venetoclax responses in a RCHOP refractory DLBCL in vivo models. These findings provide preclinical evidence for the rational treatment combination of AKT and BCL-2 inhibitors using capivasertib and venetoclax respectively alongside anti-CD20 antibody supplementation for treatment of patients with DLBCL.

Enhanced sinterability and conductivity insights of Nb2O5 - Doped 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia: Implications for low-temperature ceramic electrolytes

The study explored the effect of incorporating niobia (Nb2O5) at 1, 3, and 5 wt percent into 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (8YSZ), made through a mechanochemical process. Niobia-doped 8YSZ samples were synthesized by a mechanochemical process and analyzed with methods including XRD, XPS, UV–Visible spectroscopy, particle size analysis, BET surface area analysis, FESEM-EDX, and EIS. Sintering was achieved at a reduced temperature of 1373 K, and all niobia-doped samples predominantly exhibited a tetragonal phase. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicated that niobia doping inversely affected oxide ion conductivity-higher dopant concentrations resulted in lower conductivity. Nb-doped 8YSZ also displayed lower activation energy for conductivity compared to high-temperature (1473 K) sintered undoped 8YSZ, demonstrating equivalent performance. The combined benefits of lower sintering temperatures and enhanced ionic conductivities highlight crucial progress in developing cost-effective and energy-efficient electrolytes for clean energy applications.

Enhanced electrochemical stability and ion transfer rate: A polymer/ceramic composite electrolyte for high-performance all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries

All-solid-state (ASS) lithium-sulfur (LiS) batteries utilizing composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs) represent a promising avenue in the domain of electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems, leveraging the combined benefits of polymer electrolytes (PEs) and ceramic electrolytes (CEs). However, the inherent weak interface compatibility between PEs and CEs often leads to phase separation, thereby impeding the transposition of Li+. In this study, the trimethoxy-[3-(2-methoxyethoxy)propyl]silane (TM-MES) is introduced as a chemical agent to form bonds with polyethylene oxide (PEO) and Li10GeP2S12 (LGPS), resulting in the development of a novel composite polymer electrolyte (CPETM-MES). This innovative approach mitigates phase separation between PEs and CEs while concurrently enhancing the protective capabilities of LGPS against decomposition at the interfaces of both the Li anode and sulfur cathode. Moreover, the CPETM-MES exhibits superior mechanical toughness, an expanded electrochemical window, and elevated ionic conductivity. In the symmetric cell, it demonstrates an extended operational lifespan exceeding 1800 h, and the current density can reach up to 1.05 mA/cm2. Furthermore, the initial discharge capacity of ASS LiS batteries utilizing CPETM-MES attains 1227 mAh/g and maintains a capacity of 904 mAh/g after 100 cycles. Notably, a high-energy-density of 2454 Wh/kg is achieved based on the sulfur cathode.

Biomedical Metal–Organic framework materials on antimicrobial therapy: Perspectives and challenges

As a barrier between the structure of the human body's internal organs and the outside environment, the skin serves crucial physiological tasks like protection, regulation, and metabolism. The skin's close interaction with the outside makes it particularly vulnerable to many injuries. Bacterial infections cause wound healing to take longer, raise the risk of chronic harm, and serve as a breeding ground for drug-resistant bacteria. As a result, it is critical to eliminate bacterial species from the wound region rapidly and efficiently. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), are critically adjustable hybrid materials that integrate organic ligands with coordination metals to generate a range of topologically isomorphic structures. MOFs' creation and shape are investigated by the metal source and ligand utilized in the reaction process, and the structural benefits of this near-infinite combination of structures allow boundless potential for their surface functionalization. MOF has a large effective surface area, tunable structure, adaptability, excellent biodegradability, high drug load, adjustable release of drugs, robust targeting, etc. It can be loaded with therapeutic materials and has programmability. It is more conducive to treating complex wounds while realizing the synergistic effects of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pro-angiogenesis, effectively improving treatment safety. This review summarizes the most recent research advances on various MOFs for antimicrobial therapy, using diverse types of metal-ion-based MOFs as an entry point. Finally, it covers several important challenges in the antimicrobial treatment of metal-ion-based MOFs.

Improving the growth of pea plant by biochar–polyacrylamide association to cope with heavy metal stress under sewage water application in a greenhouse

Sewage water is extensively used for irrigation, serving as a valuable resource for plant growth to enhance agricultural productivity. However, this practice also results in a significant accumulation of heavy metals in the soil, posing potential environmental and health risks. A study was designed to evaluate the combined effect of amendments on heavy metal immobilization in soil and improved growth and yield in pea plants. For this, the soil for each treatment was mixed with biochar (BC) (1% w/w), polyacrylamide (PAM) (0.5% w/w), and also applied in combination. Pea plants were irrigated with tap water (TW), sewage water (SW), and tap + sewage water (TW + SW). A factorial design was applied to analyze data statistically. The combined application of the biochar and polymer showed a positive response by significantly enhancing the plant growth parameters (39%–84%), physiological attributes (67%–69%), and reducing Cd (56%) and Cr (65%) concentration in soil applied with SW and TW + SW. Moreover, treatment with a combined application of BC and PAM significantly reduced Cd concentrations by 43% in roots, 50% in shoots, and 91% in grains. Similarly, Cr concentrations were reduced by 51% in roots, 51% in shoots, and 94% in grains compared to the control. Overall, the study results indicate reduced bioaccumulation and health risks associated with potentially toxic elements (PTEs), supporting the application of the polymer and biochar for irrigating pea plants with TW + SW. Leveraging the combined benefits of polymer and biochar amendments appears to be an effective strategy to remediate PTE-contaminated soil, thereby increasing plant growth and yield.