Types Of Materials Research Articles

Preparation of CuO–CeO2/CaO Composite Oxides and its Ablation Performances of CO/CO2

ABSTRACT CuO – CeO2/CaO composite oxide was prepared for mine special environment in this study through the solid-phase impregnation method using the traditional CuO – CeO2 and CaO as the CO catalyst and the modified additive, respectively, to address the CO poisoning in underground coal mines effectively. Influences of CaO mass on the ablation performances of CuO – CeO2/CaO were investigated under dynamic and static CO/CO2 heat capture experiments using the self-made activity testing device. Results demonstrated that adding CaO can realize in-situ adsorption of CO2, thus increasing utilization of oxygen and promoting CO catalysis of the prepared composite oxide. The performances of CuO – CeO2/0.15CaO was the best when the dosage of CaO was 15 wt%. The CO reaction capacity and CO2 adsorption capacity reached 1.17 and 0.56 mg·g−1, respectively. The thermodynamic properties and microstructural characteristics of the synthesized composite oxide were systematically investigated utilizing a simultaneous thermal analyzer, Fourier infrared spectrometer, XRD diffractometer, and scanning electron microscope. Adding CaO can also improve the thermostability of the composite oxide and increase active sites on the sample surface. The emergence of adsorption products Ca(OH)2 and CaCO3 proves that CuO – CeO2/CaO has relatively good moisture and CO2 adsorption. Analysis of the ablation performances of CO/CO2 after coal combustion with CuO – CeO2/CaO revealed that the prepared composite oxide not only effectively lowers CO concentration after coal combustion but also adsorbs CO2 during catalysis and decreases smoke risks. The released CO concentration from coal combustion after 240 s can be decreased to less than 0.0024% when the mass ratio of CuO – CeO2/0.15CaO and coal is 1:3. The ablation results confirm that, as a new type of composite material, the CuO – CeO2/0.15CaO composite oxide can provide a new technical means for CO control in coal mines.

Investigating the decomposition mechanism of DNAN/DNB cocrystal explosive under high temperature using ReaxFF/lg molecular dynamics simulations.

DNAN/DNB cocrystals, as a newly developed type of energetic material, possess superior safety and thermal stability, making them a suitable alternative to traditional melt-cast explosives. Nonetheless, an exploration of the thermal degradation dynamics of the said cocrystal composite has heretofore remained uncharted. Consequently, we engaged the ReaxFF/lg force field modality to delve into the thermal dissociation processes of the DNAN/DNB cocrystal assembly across a spectrum of temperatures, encompassing 2500, 2750, 3000, 3250, and 3500K. We analyzed the evolution of species, preliminary disintegration processes, and fluctuations in the quantification of terminal outcomes were examined. The findings suggest that 2,4-dinitroanisole (DNAN) undergoes a thorough phase of disassembly within a timespan of 218ps, while 1,3-dinitrobenzene (DNB) completely decomposed within 228ps, demonstrating that DNAN has lower thermal stability than DNB, but with no significant difference. The thermal dissociation of DNAN/DNB cocrystals at elevated temperatures reveals a triad of potential reaction sequences. Primordially, the denitration of DNAN transpires, succeeded by the denitration of DNB, culminating in the nitro-isomerization of the latter. This sequence implies that the nitro moieties within DNB possess inferior thermal resilience compared to their counterparts within the DNAN cocrystal matrix. An examination of the six resultant end products suggests a predominance of H2O, NO2, and H2 in comparison to the other byproducts, which may be indicative of the pyrolytic transformations occurring during the disassembly process. This study first constructed the supercell model of DNAN/DNB eutectic crystal using the Materials Studio software and optimized the geometric structure of the model through the conjugate gradient algorithm. Then, the Nosé-Hoover method was used for NPT-MD simulation to further relax the model. Subsequently, molecular dynamics simulations were carried out using the LAMMPS software and the ReaxFF/lg force field. Simulation parameters were set, and NPT ensemble molecular dynamics simulations were performed at different temperatures. The simulation results were analyzed to reveal the thermal decomposition mechanism of DNAN/DNB eutectic crystal.

A supplementary description of Euseius talinga (Pritchard & Baker) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) from Egypt

ABSTRACT Euseius talinga (Pritchard and Baker) (Acari: Phytoseiidae), a species previously misidentified as E. finlandicus (Oudemans) in Egypt, is reported for the first time for the Egyptian fauna. Its original description was not very detailed with simple drawings and an absence of diagnostic characters including measurements of dorsal setae. In addition, there is an inconsistency between its redescription and the original description, regarding the relative length of seta s4 in comparison with other dorsal setae, such as z4 and z2. Furthermore, we observed a modified seta (al subulate) on trochanter I of this species. We also examined the type materials of E. spermahyphus (Ueckermann and Loots) and concluded that this species is a junior synonym of E. talinga. Therefore, the important diagnostic characters of E. talinga are reviewed to facilitate species delimitation, and its supplementary description along with new illustrations are provided based on female specimens collected from Arundo donax L. (Poaceae) in Seidah village, Giza, Egypt.

Enhancing Osteogenesis and Mechanical Properties through Scaffold Design in 3D Printed Bone Substitutes.

In the context of regenerative medicine, the design of scaffolds to possess excellent osteogenesis and appropriate mechanical properties has gained significant attention in bone tissue engineering. In this review, we categorized materials into metallic, inorganic, nonmetallic, organic polymer, and composite materials. This review provides a more integrated and multidimensional analysis of scaffold design for bone tissue engineering. Unlike previous works that often focus on single aspects, such as material type or fabrication technique, our review takes a broader approach. It analyzes the interaction between scaffold materials, 3D printing techniques, scaffold structural designs, modification methods, porosities, and pore sizes, and the composition of materials (particularly composite materials). Meanwhile, it focuses on their impacts on scaffolds' osteogenic potential and mechanical performance. This review also provides suggested ranges for porosity and pore size for different materials and outlines recommended surface modification methods. This approach not only consolidates current knowledge but also highlights the interdependencies among various factors affecting scaffold efficacy, offering deeper insights into optimization strategies tailored for specific clinical conditions. Furthermore, we introduce recent advancements in innovative 3D printing techniques and novel composite materials, which are rarely addressed in previous reviews, thereby providing a forward-looking perspective that informs future research directions and clinical applications.

Water pervious concrete pavement blocks: durable structures for an integrated water policy

Water pervious pavement blocks are a durable and ecological solution to prevent water run off, to minimize the risk of flooding and to increase the efficiency of water purification. The application of water pervious pavement blocks on a permeable base and/or sub base allows buffering of the rainwater in the structure and infiltration or retarded outflow to the ground or infiltration system. This paper presents the results of a research project, conducted at the BRRC during 4 years. The efficiency of water buffering and infiltration in relation to the choice of material is investigated in the laboratory, on a test parking lot and on site. To allow a good choice of the materials and the application site and to control the efficiency on site, different test methods are optimized. Results for different types of concrete pavement blocks (pervious blocks, blocks with enlarged joints or drainage holes), different types of base layer (hydraulic bounded or unbounded materials) and different types of sand layer and jointing materials are looked at. Finally this paper focuses on several applications in Belgium, where measurements have shown a good behavior of the structure and a good durability of the permeability. Data from newly constructed projects, as well as projects in use for more than eight years are presented.

What Is the Optimal Geometry of Dissolving Microneedle Arrays? A Literature Review

The application of dissolving microneedle arrays (DMNAs) is an emerging trend in drug and vaccine delivery as an alternative for hypodermic needles or other less convenient drug administration methods. The major benefits include, amongst others, that no trained healthcare personnel is required and that the recipient experiences hardly any pain during administration. However, for a successful drug or vaccine delivery from the DMNA, the microneedles should be inserted intact into the skin. A successful penetration into the upper skin layers may be challenging because of the elastic nature of the skin; therefore, a minimum insertion force is required to overcome the total resistance force of the skin. In addition, the microneedles need to stay intact, which requires a certain mechanical strength, and be able to resist the required insertion force. In addition to the type of material with which the DMNAs are produced, the geometry of the DMNAs will also have a profound effect, not only on the mechanical strength but also on the number of insertions and penetration depth into the skin. In this review, the effects of shape, aspect ratio, length, width of the base, tip diameter and angle, and spacing of DMNAs on the aforementioned effect parameters were evaluated to answer the following question: ‘What is the optimal geometry of dissolving microneedle arrays?’.

A Litz Wire-Based Inductor Model for a DC-DC Converter-Fed Single-Phase Inverter

Inductors play a major role in the power electronics domain, particularly in DC-DC converter design. The objective of this paper is to reach inductance value by means of fewer turns, using Litz wire wound on a ferrite core. In the manufacture of inductors, the key aspects of the design criteria include the choice of the core material, the type of copper coil and insulation materials, and their overall size. Taking into consideration the design parameters with no compromises on performance, Litz wire with the least turns is introduced into an inductor in certain DC-DC converters. Once the DC settled voltage is reached, it is given to a single-phase inverter for loading and application measures. This approach provides a small-level inductor design for maximized efficiency with improved thermal behavior. The hardware model for the proposed method has been developed using a DC-DC converter fed with a single-phase inverter model. The proposed DC-DC converter has been tested, performance-wise, by applying different load levels. It is observed, from the results, that the Litz wire-based approach achieves maximum efficiency with improved thermal behavior.

Ankle-foot orthoses for improving walking in adults with calf muscle weakness due to neuromuscular disorders.

Calf muscle weakness is a common symptom in slowly progressive neuromuscular disorders that lead to walking problems like instability and increased walking effort. The mainstay of treatment to improve walking in this population is the provision of ankle-foot-orthoses (AFOs). Since we are not aware of an up-to-date and complete overview of the effects of AFOs used for calf muscle weakness in slowly progressive neuromuscular disorders, we reviewed the evidence for the effectiveness of AFOs to improve walking in this patient group, in order to support clinical decision-making. To review the evidence for the effects of ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) for improving walking in adults with calf muscle weakness due to slowly progressive neuromuscular disorders. On 10 February 2023, we searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, Embase, MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP. We looked for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), including randomised cross-over studies and quasi-RCTs, and non-randomised studies (NRSs) that examined the effects of AFO interventions compared with shoes-only walking in adults with calf muscle weakness due to neuromuscular disorders. We used the methodological procedures described in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We summarised findings for the primary outcome (objectively measured walking effort, assessed as walking energy cost) and secondary outcomes (perceived walking effort, physical mobility, gait parameters, AFO use, satisfaction with the AFO, and adverse events). We grouped results according to the type of AFO material and synthesised them in meta-analysis where possible. We used the GRADE approach to rate the certainty of the evidence. We included four randomised cross-over studies and six NRSs with 186 participants in total (the smallest study had 8 participants and the largest had 37). All studies were designed as self-controlled studies and examined the effects of custom-made and/or prefabricated AFOs. The AFOs were made of carbon (5 studies), polypropylene (5 studies), silicone (1 study), metal (1 study), elastic materials (2 studies), or leather combined with other materials (1 study). Outcome measures with AFOs were assessed during a single session (in some studies, people already used the study AFO in daily life), when the AFO was delivered, or at three-week or three-month follow-up. We judged one study to be at moderate risk of bias, and nine studies to be at high or serious risk of bias, primarily due to bias arising from period and carryover effects, selection bias, the inability to blind participants and assessors, missing data, and selective reporting. We found that carbon AFOs may reduce walking energy cost (mean difference (MD) -0.86 J/kg/m, 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.33 to -0.39; 2 studies, 45 participants; low-certainty evidence), and may increase walking speed (MD 0.19 m/s, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.27; 4 studies, 71 participants; low-certainty evidence) compared to shoes-only walking. We found that leather AFOs may increase walking speed (MD 0.25 m/s, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.43; 1 study, 11 participants; low-certainty evidence). Little or no effect on walking speed was found with polypropylene AFOs (MD 0.00 m/s, 95% CI -0.11 to 0.11; 2 studies, 25 participants; low-certainty evidence) and elastic AFOs (MD 0.03 m/s, 95% CI -0.12 to 0.18; 1 study, 14 participants; low-certainty evidence). Carbon AFOs may also enhance satisfaction while walking (1 study, 16 participants; low-certainty evidence). We were unable to draw conclusions about perceived walking effort (one study, 8 participants), balance (two studies, 21 participants), and AFO use (two studies, 51 participants), as the evidence is very uncertain. Finally, two studies (45 participants) reported on adverse events (low-certainty evidence). The available evidence for ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) to improve walking in adults with calf muscle weakness comes from a limited number of small studies with heterogeneity in intervention characteristics and outcome assessment, and is of low to very low certainty. The evidence suggests that carbon AFOs may reduce walking energy cost (effort), increase walking speed, and enhance satisfaction, and leather AFOs may increase walking speed, while polypropylene and elastic AFOs may make little or no difference to walking speed. We are unable to draw conclusions about the effects of AFOs on perceived walking effort, balance, and use. Nor can we draw conclusions about adverse effects of using AFOs. The variety in the findings for AFOs made of different materials suggests further investigation is warranted to explore how different AFO materials impact walking improvement in people with calf muscle weakness due to slowly progressive neuromuscular disorders.

Interface Acoustic Waves in 128° YX-LiNbO3/SU-8/Overcoat Structures

The propagation of interface acoustic waves (IAWs) in 128° YX-LiNbO3/SU-8/overcoat structures was theoretically studied and experimentally investigated for different types of overcoat materials and thicknesses of the SU-8 adhesive layer. Three-dimensional finite element method analysis was performed using Comsol Multiphysics software to design an optimized multilayer configuration able to achieve an efficient guiding effect of the IAW at the LiNbO3/overcoat interface. Numerical analysis results showed the following: (i) an overcoat faster than the piezoelectric half-space ensures that the wave propagation is confined mainly close to the surface of the LiNbO3, although with minimal scattering in the overcoat; (ii) the presence of the SU-8, in addition to performing the essential function of an adhesive layer, can also promote the trapping of the acoustic energy toward the surface of the piezoelectric substrate; and (iii) the electromechanical coupling efficiency of the IAW is very close to that of the surface acoustic wave (SAW) along the bare LiNbO3 half-space. The numerical predictions were experimentally assessed for some SU-8 layer thicknesses and overcoat material types. The propagation of the IAWs was experimentally measured in LiNbO3/SU-8/fused silica, LiNbO3/SU-8/(001)Si, and LiNbO3/SU-8/c-Al2O3 structures for an SU-8 layer about 15 µm thick; the velocities of the IAWs were found in good agreement with the theoretically calculated values. Although the interest in IAWs was born many years ago for packageless applications, it can currently be renewed if thought for applications in microfluidics. Indeed, the IAWs may represent a valid alternative to standing SAWs, which are strongly attenuated when travelling beneath the walls of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic channels for continuous flow particle manipulation, provided that the channel is excavated into the overcoating.

Transition toward circular economy in the agrifood seedling phase: A Life Cycle Assessment on tomato trays.

National and international guidelines call for greater environmental sustainability in agriculture through the introduction of the circular economy. Recent studies investigate the introduction of new technologies and methodologies in the field, however, few focus on initial stages at the plant nursery or the management of the involved materials, and none scientifically calculate their environmental impact. To fill this gap, this paper focuses on an Italian case study that quantifies the environmental impact of the traditional seed trays used worldwide for growing, transporting and transplanting tomato seedlings, proposing and evaluating two alternatives from a circular economy perspective. To do this, the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology was applied to the traditional and to two new reusable, recyclable, washable seed trays, comparing their entire life cycles. Primary data, provided by three manufacturers, two nurseries and four agricultural farms, were modelled using SimaPro software. Their environmental impact was calculated considering the potentials of global warming, eutrophication, acidification, abiotic depletion of elements and fossil fuels, ozone layer depletion, water scarcity and photochemical oxidation. Results show that, irrespective of the type of material used for the seed pots, the extraction and production phase of the materials is the most impactful in the life cycles. The proposed trays resulted more environmentally sustainable than the traditional non-reusable expanded polystyrene tray. The work also quantified the environmental benefit achieved with the weight reduction of the seed pots and their better handling by operators, which avoided breakages and losses. Furthermore, it is shown how the proposed reusable solutions can be greener, reducing the impacts up to a third in the case of global warming potential. In conclusion, the research offers viable alternatives that can be used in the market all over the world, diminishing the overall impact of the seedling and transplanting phases.

The identity of Anemone discoideogyna and A. robustostylosa (Ranunculaceae), described respectively from Sichuan and Guangxi, China

Based on examination of herbarium specimens (including type material) and observations of living plants in the wild, we demonstrate that Anemone discoideogyna and A. robustostylosa (Ranunculaceae), described respectively from Sichuan and Guangxi, China, are not essentially different from A. hupehensis (sometimes treated as Eriocapitella hupehensis) in any characters, a species widely distributed in the country (Chongqing, Gansu, Guangxi, Guizhou, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Taiwan, Yunnan, Zhejiang). We therefore place both A. discoideogyna and A. robustostylosa in synonymy with A. hupehensis herein. As the independent generic status of Eriocapitella was not supported by molecular studies, E. hupehensis is also synonymized.

Metal Bis(acyclic diaminocarbene)-Derived Homochiral Organometallic Frameworks: Synthesis and Asymmetric Catalytic Application.

As an indispensable member of the reticular material family, metal-carbon-based organometallic frameworks (OMFs) remain largely underexplored, and no chiral OMFs (COMFs) have been reported thus far. Herein, we first report the construction of COMFs from a Pd-isocyanide OMF via nucleophilic addition to the Pd-isocyanide moiety with optically pure amines. The obtained Pd-bis(acyclic diaminocarbene) (Pd-BADC)-derived chiral OMFs display excellent applicability and can be reusable chiral catalysts to highly promote asymmetric Strecker and Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions in a heterogeneous way. We anticipate that this type of chiral reticular material will be applicable to a broad range of asymmetric catalytic applications, and this appealing synthetic strategy will likely provide access to more other such materials with unprecedented structures and catalytic activities.

The Analysis of Conductive Polymer Materials

In recent years, more and more researchers have begun to focus on the study of conductive polymer materials, which not only breaks the traditional cognition that polymer materials are insulators, but also their excellent performance makes them applicable in many aspects. In this paper, a literature review research method will be used to introduce the classification, conducting mechanism, preparation methods and practical applications of conductive polymer materials, based on the research conducted by scientific researchers in recent years. This paper will also combine relevant literature to provide a forecast of their future development. Through research, the paper finds that conductive polymer materials, as a new type of conductive material, have shown great potential in many fields and have broad development prospects in the future. Currently, conductive polymer materials have made considerable contributions in the fields of electronic devices, flexible electronics, sensing technology, and biomedicine. Although conductive polymer materials have made certain progress in many fields, there are still many challenges to be overcome in their development. In the future, with the development of materials science and nanotechnology, conductive polymer materials will achieve breakthroughs in more fields and achieve more widespread applications.

Preparation and Lithium Storage Properties of MOF‐Derived Bimetallic Sulfide ZnxInyS/MXene Composites

Nanostructured metal sulfides (MSs) are considered promising anode materials for Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high specific capacity and abundant raw material resources. However, the practical application of these materials faces challenges such as poor conductivity and volume expansion. To address these issues and enhance the performance of LIBs, it is crucial to tackle the structural design problem associated with ZnxInyS anode material. The utilization of metal sulfides derived from metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) not only improves conductivity but also mitigates the issue of volume expansion in metal sulfides. Furthermore, connecting the metal sulfides derived from MOF to various conductive substrates can further enhance their conductivity. Two‐dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides (MXenes), a novel type of 2D material with plentiful functional groups and chemical properties, offer great potential. In this study, we have strategically constructed ZnxInyS/MXene heterostructures by combining the advantages of 2D Ti3C2TX nanosheets and bimetallic MOF structures. The results demonstrate that due to the synergistic effect between MXene and heterostructure, a significant number of lattice defects and ample buffer space are provided, resulting in excellent lithium storage performance and fast ion diffusion kinetics for the electrode.

Advances in Oxygen Evolution Reaction Electrocatalysts via Direct Oxygen-Oxygen Radical Coupling Pathway.

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a cornerstone of various electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems, including water splitting, CO2/N2 reduction, reversible fuel cells, and rechargeable metal-air batteries. OER typically proceeds through three primary mechanisms: adsorbate evolution mechanism (AEM), lattice oxygen oxidation mechanism (LOM), and oxide path mechanism (OPM). Unlike AEM and LOM, the OPM proceeds via direct oxygen-oxygen radical coupling that can bypass linear scaling relationships of reaction intermediates in AEM and avoid catalyst structural collapse in LOM, thereby enabling enhanced catalytic activity and stability. Despite its unique advantage, electrocatalysts that can drive OER via OPM remain nascent and are increasingly recognized as critical. This review discusses recent advances in OPM-based OER electrocatalysts. It starts by analyzing three reaction mechanisms that guide the design of electrocatalysts. Then, several types of novel materials, including atomic ensembles, metal oxides, perovskite oxides, and molecular complexes, are highlighted. Afterward, operando characterization techniques used to monitor the dynamic evolution of active sites and reaction intermediates are examined. The review concludes by discussing several research directions to advance OPM-based OER electrocatalysts toward practical applications.

The Most Promising Alternative to Mercury-containing Dental Restorations

The European Union Environmental Commission report and the United Nation Minamata Convention have legislated for phasing-out of mercury-containing dental materials use (dental amalgams) by 2030.1, 2 Several Scandinavian countries have already banned the use of dental amalgams, and this ban is expected to grow to other countries worldwide.2, 3 This creates a market gap for materials which can be used as an alternative to dental amalgams.4 Varieties of mercury-free dental materials have been clinically approved as posterior restorations; such as (1) resin-based composite materials, and (2) glass-based materials, including glass ionomers and glass hybrids. Using these types of dental materials will decrease the mercury’s risks on human’s health and also contribute significantly in the reduction of the environmental mercury pollution.5, 6 Recently, several clinical approaches to treat dental caries lesions have shifted the focus to preserving tooth structure and use of adhesive materials. Considering this, Minimally Intervention Dentistry (MID) has become a crucial concept which includes three aspects to fulfil the requirement of preventive and restorative dentistry; these are early caries diagnosis, enhance remineralisation and minimal cutting of tooth surfaces.7, 8 This approach is identified as an Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART). The ART technique was adopted in 1994 by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as an alternative technique for dental caries management in the developed countries either for treating deciduous and/or permanent dentitions.9 The high viscous glass ionomer cement (GIC) is approved as an ideal candidate material to be used with ART technique; such as GC Fuji IX®, KetacTM Molar and Glass Carbomer®.10, 11 One of the main advances in dental materials field is based on the modifications of the GIC chemical compositions, by introducing a bioactive glass in different particle sizes (for promoting remineralising ability) and/or using a highly molecular weight of poly- acrylic acid (for enhancing matrix strength).12 When bioactive glass-containing dental materials come into contact with body fluid, will undergo to a sequence of bioactivity reactions; which is summarised into (1) ion exchange, (2) dissolution and (3) precipitation stages, leading to formation of apatite crystals in fractions identical to those of the natural bone and tooth components.13 Formation of apatite crystals [hydroxyapatite-Ca10(PO4)6OH2 or fluorapatite-Ca10(PO4)6F2] in the bioactive glass-containing GICs occurs via delivering of calcium (Ca2+), phosphate (PO43), hydroxyl (OH-) and/or fluoride (F-) species at the interfaces between the GIC/tooth surfaces and/or the GIC/oral environment.14 For this reason, the bioactive glass-containing GICs are considered as the most promising alternative restorative materials for posterior cavities.

Lithium Battery Degradation and Failure Mechanisms: A State-of-the-Art Review

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the lithium battery degradation mechanisms and failure modes. It discusses these issues in a general context and then focuses on various families or material types used in the batteries, particularly in anodes and cathodes. The paper begins with a general overview of lithium batteries and their operations. It explains the fundamental principles of the electrochemical reaction that occurs in a battery, as well as the key components such as the anode, cathode, and electrolyte. The paper explores also the degradation processes and failure modes of lithium batteries. It examines the main factors contributing to these issues, including the operating temperature and current. It highlights the specific degradation mechanisms associated with each type of material, whether it is graphite, silicon, metallic lithium, cobalt, nickel, or manganese oxides used in the electrodes. Some degradations are due to the temperature and the current waveforms. Then, the importance of thermal management and current management is emphasized throughout the paper. It highlights the negative effects of overheating, excessive current, or inappropriate voltage on the stability and lifespan of lithium batteries. It also underscores the significance of battery management systems (BMS) in monitoring and controlling these parameters to minimize the degradation and the risk of failure. This work provides a summary of valuable insight into the development of BMS. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the degradation mechanisms and failure modes specific to different families of lithium batteries, as well as the critical influence of temperature and current quality. Rational management or efficient controlling of these parameters can enhance the performance, reliability, and lifespan of lithium batteries.

Kinetic Control of Self-Assembly Pathway in Dual Dynamic Covalent Polymeric Systems.

Kinetically controlled self-assembly is garnering increasing interest in the field of supramolecular polymers and materials, yet examples involving dynamic covalent exchange remain relatively unexplored. Here we report an unexpected dynamic covalent polymeric system whose aqueous self-assembly pathway is strongly influenced by the kinetics of evaporation of water. The key design is to integrate dual dynamic covalent bonds-including disulfide bonds and boroxine/borate-into a dynamic equilibrium system of monomers, polymers, and materials. This dual dynamic covalent design allows polymer growth and crosslinking to occur with the same spatiotemporal characteristics, governed solely by solvent evaporation. We found that a single building block can assemble into two distinct types of polymeric materials, each characterized by unique crosslinking topologies, orders, solubility, and macroscopic properties. The dual dynamic nature of the materials imparts them with intrinsic reconfigurability, such as interfacial repairability and close-loop chemical recyclability.

Assessment of a novel unidirectional mid-term absorbable barbed suture versus a competitor barbed suture for vaginal cuff closure after gynaecology surgery, study protocol of a randomized controlled trial - BARHYSTER

BackgroundTotal laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) is nowadays the standard to treat benign and malignant disease occurring in the uterus, but the number of robotic-assisted surgeries is increasing worldwide. To facilitate the handling of sutures in a bi- and tri-dimensional plane, a new type of suture material has been developed, named barbed sutures, which are in use in different indications. In comparison to conventional suture materials, the barbs anchor the suture in the tissue, provide tissue approximation and prevent slippage without the need for knot tying. Several meta-analyses and systematic reviews have shown that they are safe and efficient. The current study investigates the clinical outcome of a novel unidirectional mid-term absorbable barbed suture which differs in its configuration from other barbed sutures. The collected data will be prospectively compared to the results of a competitor’s unidirectional mid-term absorbable barbed suture and retrospectively to the findings reported for conventional sutures after hysterectomy in the literature.MethodsAn international, randomised, multicentric, single-blinded design was chosen. A total of 132 patients will be included receiving randomly either the novel unidirectional barbed suture versus the competitor unidirectional barbed suture in a 3:1 ratio. Both suture materials will be applied to close the vaginal cuff after laparoscopic hysterectomy and the time for suturing is the primary endpoint. As secondary objectives, the following parameters will be collected and compared in both suture groups: intraoperative handling of the suture material, quality of life using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), patient satisfaction, pain, and complications occurring in the short-term and long-term follow-up. For each patient, the study lasts 6 months after surgery.DiscussionThis study will assess the clinical performance of a novel unidirectional mid-term absorbable barbed suture material for the first time in gynaecology surgery and, to our knowledge, it will be the second largest RCT performed so far in total laparoscopic hysterectomy using unidirectional mid-term absorbable barbed suture materials.Trial registrationThe study was prospectively registered before the enrolment of the first patient. Registration was performed under www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT 06024109. Registered on 15 August, 2023.

Kinetic Control of Self‐Assembly Pathway in Dual Dynamic Covalent Polymeric Systems

Kinetically controlled self‐assembly is garnering increasing interest in the field of supramolecular polymers and materials, yet examples involving dynamic covalent exchange remain relatively unexplored. Here we report an unexpected dynamic covalent polymeric system whose aqueous self‐assembly pathway is strongly influenced by the kinetics of evaporation of water. The key design is to integrate dual dynamic covalent bonds—including disulfide bonds and boroxine/borate—into a dynamic equilibrium system of monomers, polymers, and materials. This dual dynamic covalent design allows polymer growth and crosslinking to occur with the same spatiotemporal characteristics, governed solely by solvent evaporation. We found that a single building block can assemble into two distinct types of polymeric materials, each characterized by unique crosslinking topologies, orders, solubility, and macroscopic properties. The dual dynamic nature of the materials imparts them with intrinsic reconfigurability, such as interfacial repairability and close‐loop chemical recyclability.