Recharge Ability Research Articles

Use of isotope techniques to evaluate the recharged ability of the upper Pleistocene aquifer in the Nambo Plain

In the Nambo Plain, the monitoring data on dynamics and quality of groundwater has shown declining signs in quantity and quality both in the existing groundwater aquifers, and the exploitation of groundwater in recent time is believed to be a cause of this decline. That shows the need for further research, especially on the modern recharge ability of the existing groundwater aquifers, to re-evaluate the groundwater potential of the region. For that purpose, isotope techniques are applied to evaluate the recharge ability of the upper Pleistocene aquifer, an important source of water supply in rural areas in the Nambo Plain.
 In this study, groundwater, river water and rainwater samples were collected and analyzed for stable isotope composition, tritium, radiocarbon and major hydro-chemical parameters. Data on stable isotope composition in groundwater are used to define the origin of groundwater while tritium and 14C content are used to determine groundwater age and to predict the aquifer’s recharge zone; and in combining with the stable isotope composition and tritium content of river water to evaluate the dynamic relationship between river water and groundwater.
 The obtained results show that: i) Groundwater in the study aquifer is originated from meteorological water and formed at different stages. ii) The high 3H and 14C content in some groundwater samples indicate that the aquifer has modern rainwater infiltrated as a recharge source. iii) The similarity of stable isotope composition in the Vam Co river water and groundwater adjacent to the river shows that there is a hydraulic relationship between them. This is an important basis for assessing the recharge ability to the qp3 aquifer of the Vam Co river water.

In vitro evaluation of a novel fluoride-coated clear aligner with antibacterial and enamel remineralization abilities.

To investigate the antibacterial and enamel remineralization performances as well as physicochemical properties and biocompatibility of a fluoride-coated clear aligner plastic (FCAP). FCAP and normal clear aligner plastic (CAP) was bought from the manufacturer (Angelalign Technology Inc, China). The FCAP was observed under scanning electron microscopy. Its element composition, resistance to separation, contact angle, and protein adhesion performance were characterized. Colony-forming unit (CFU) count and 3-(4,5)-dimethylthiazol(-z-y1)-3,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay were used to evaluate the antibacterial ability of Streptococcus mutans. Fluoride release-recharge patterns were obtained. Apatite formation was evaluated after immersing FCAP in artificial saliva. Enamel remineralization capability was evaluated in the demineralization model (immersing samples in demineralization solution for 36h) and pH cycling model (immersing samples in demineralization solution and remineralization solution in turns for 14days). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and live/dead cell staining kits were used for cytotoxicity assay. The FCAP showed uniformly distributed fluoride and did not compromise protein adhesion performance. CFU count (5.47 ± 0.55 for CAP, 3.63 ± 0.38 for FCAP) and MTT assay (0.41 ± 0.025 for CAP, 0.28 ± 0.038) indicated that the FCAP had stronger antibacterial activity compared with normal CAP (P < 0.05 for both evaluations). The FCAP could release fluoride continuously for 14days and could be recharged after immersing in NaF solution. The FCAP could induce the formation of hydroxyapatite in artificial saliva and could reduce the microhardness decrease, color change, and mineral loss of enamels in both two models (P < 0.05 for all evaluations). CCK-8 and live/dead cell staining analyses showed that the coating did not compromise the biocompatibility of the clear aligner (P > 0.05 for CCK-8 evaluation). The FCAP had antibacterial, fluoride recharge, and enamel remineralization abilities while it did not compromise physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. The FCAP has the potential to prevent enamel demineralization during clear aligner treatment.

A new insight into the molecular rearrangement of sulfurized polyacrylonitrile cathode in ether electrolyte

Sulfurized polyacrylonitrile (SPAN) is one of the most promising cathode materials with high energy density. However, irreversible shuttling effect is easily triggered by formation of soluble polysulfides (Li2Sn, 2< n ≤8) in ether electrolytes. The major challenge relies in the control of molecular rearrangement of SPAN to avoid spontaneous generation of Li2Sn. This work reveals the morphological and structural roles that responsible for the compatibility of SPAN with ether electrolytes. Besides the length of the covalently bonded –Sx– chains in the pyrolyzed PAN backbone, the protection of SPAN fragments from robust interactions with solvents enables a stable cycling of electrodes. The freestanding SPAN cathode with a continuous fibrous network exhibits a much higher electrochemical stability than its powder counterparts. The single-phase solid-solid reaction of SPAN with Li+ can be realized with Li2S as the sole discharge product. Nevertheless, the reversible reaction is kinetically dominated by the activation of the produced Li2S. The recharge ability and rate capability can be improved by rationally controlling the molecular rearrangement of SPAN. The trace amount of in-situ generated Li2Sn acting as a chemical mediator can promote the reversible decomposition of Li2S, offering a new insight into cathode design of Li–S batteries.

Electrochemical investigation on nickel-doped spinel magnesium ferrite nanoparticles for supercapacitor applications

Due to their extensive cycle life, significant power storage capacity, and quick recharge ability, electrochemical (EC) capacitors, namely supercapacitors (SCs), have attracted great interest from the scientific community. Recent research has shown transition metal oxides as the best material for the considerable performance of flexible SCs. X-ray diffractometer (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) mapping, electron spin resonance (ESR) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) studies were used to methodically characterize the synthesized Ni-doped MgFe2O4 nanoparticles. The typical size range of the nanoparticles is 8–11 nm. In 1 M KOH solution, the produced Ni0.35Mg0.65Fe2O4 (code as: NM3) electrode has been used as a pseudocapacitor, revealing an extraordinary specific capacitance of 119.04 F/g at a current density (CD) of 1.1 A/g compared to Ni0.15Mg0.85Fe2O4 (code as: NM1) and Ni0.25Mg0.75Fe2O4 (code as: NM2) electrodes. The electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) were used to determine the electrode's EC properties. These findings indicate the potential use fullness of Ni-doped MgFe2O4 nanoparticles for SCs applications.

Single-atom electrocatalyst and gel polymer electrolyte boost the energy density and life of aluminum-sulfur batteries

Aluminum-sulfur (Al-S) batteries are regarded as a desirable candidate for large-scale energy storage because of their high energy density and abundant natural resources of electrode materials. To address the critical issues of low discharge voltage and rapid capacity decay in Al-S batteries, here an electrocatalyst-assisted gel-polymer electrolyte (GPE)-based Al-S battery is fabricated using platinum nanoparticles decorated platinum/nitrogen co-doped graphene (PtNG) as sulfur host for positive electrode and metal-organic frameworks (MOF) filled GPE (MOF@GPE) as solid electrolyte. Pt-based active sites derived from Pt nanoclusters’ surface and atomically dispersed Pt-N2 chemical bonds in PtNG can catalyze the decomposition of sulfur and polysulfides in the electrochemical process, greatly accelerating the sulfur redox kinetics. Furthermore, the MOF fillers in MOF@GPE electrolyte significantly inhibit the shuttle effect of polysulfides, efficiently improving the utilization of sulfur. Consequently, the established Al-S battery delivers a specific capacity of 1009 mAh g−1 with a discharge plateau of ∼0.95 V, along with a capacity retention of 65% after 300 cycles, revealing ultrahigh energy density and long cycle life. Such a strategy of combining electrocatalyst and MOF-based gel electrolyte affords a fresh plateau for promoting the rechargeable ability of Al-S batteries, advancing remarkable routes for achieving efficient and stable energy storage devices.

Highlights on Drug and Ion Release and Recharge Capacity of Antimicrobial Removable Prostheses.

This article aimed to review the ion and drug release, recharge abilities, and antimicrobial properties of drug/ion-releasing removable prostheses, and to assess their capability in preventing and inhibiting denture stomatitis as well preventing caries and reversing carious lesions. Data was collected from published scientific papers listed in PubMed database from January 1975 to December 2021. English full-text articles, involving clinical or in vitro studies, focusing on removable prostheses and are concerned with drug/ion release and rechargeability as a way to prevent or inhibit denture stomatitis or dental caries were included. The relevant articles reported that ion- or drug-modified polymethylmethacrylate acts as a reservoir for these ions and drugs and is capable of releasing significant amounts with sustained release effect. Recharging of modified resin resulted in greater sustainability of ion and drug release, thus improving the long-term effects of protection against demineralization and reducing the adhesion of Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. Modifications of removable prostheses with rechargeable ions and drugs enhance remineralization, hinder demineralization, and reduce microbial adhesion in difficult-to-access areas. Selection of denture base for clinical use will consider its ability to act as an ion/drug reservoir that is capable of release and recharge.

Enhancement of fluoride release in glass ionomer cements modified with titanium dioxide nanoparticles.

Several efforts have been made to improve the glass ionomer cements (GICs) properties with nanotechnology. Fluoride release in once of most beneficial properties of GICs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fluoride release, recharge, and cytotoxicity in GICs reinforced with titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2N). Evaluate the fluoride release, recharge, and cytotoxicity in GICs reinforced with TiO2N. Four GICs, FUJI IX EXTRA (G1c), KETAC MOLAR (G2c), IONOFILL MOLAR (G3c), and FUJI IX (G4c) were combined with TiO2N (G1e, G2e, G3e, and G4e) and divided into blocks of 5-mm width and 1-mm thickness 10 each. A total of 80 samples were arranged as follows: GICs alone as negative control (n = 40) and GICs + TiO2N as experimental groups (n = 40). The fluoride release was determined for periods of 1, 2, 6, 10, 31, 90, 180, 240, and 300 days. On days 30 and 179, samples were recharged by submerging in 1 mL of 20,000 ppm sodium fluoride gel. Cytotoxic activity was carried out with gingival fibroblasts, using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide cell viability assay. The experimental groups obtained the highest and more constant fluoride released when compared to control groups. After the first recharge, experimental groups (G1e, G3e, and G4e) showed statistically significant results (P = .001, 0.010, and 0.001 respectively) enhancing their recharge ability regarding control groups. The second recharge showed better results in G1e concerning the rest of the groups. No cytotoxic activity was observed in all experimental groups, although significant differences were observed in G3e and G4e regarding control group. The incorporation of TiO2N enhance the fluoride release in glass ionomers with a noncytotoxic effect on human gingival fibroblasts.

Novel rechargeable nanostructured calcium phosphate crown cement with long-term ion release and antibacterial activity to suppress saliva microcosm biofilms

ObjectiveResin cements with remineralizing and antibacterial properties are favorable for inhibition of caries. The objectives of this study were: (1) to investigate the capability of the novel dimethylaminohexadecyl-methacrylate (DMAHDM) and nano-sized amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP) containing cement to reduce saliva microcosm biofilm, and (2) to investigate the long-term ion release, recharge, and re-release of DMAHDM-NACP cement. MethodsPyromellitic glycerol dimethacrylate (PMGDM) and ethoxylated bisphenol-A-dimethacrylate (EBPADMA) were used to make PEHB monomer. Five cements were fabricated: (1) PEHB+0%NACP+0%DMAHDM (experimental control); (2) PEHB+25%NACP+0%DMAHDM, (3) PEHB+25%NACP+0%DMAHDM; (4) PEHB+25%NACP+3%DMAHDM; (5) PEHB+25%NACP+5%DMAHDM. RelyX luting cement was used as commercial control. Colony-forming units (CFU), lactic acid production, metabolic activities, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were performed. Long-term Calcium (Ca) and phosphate (P) ion release, recharge, and re-release were assessed. ResultsCompared to experimental and commercial controls, the NACP-DMAHDM cement significantly reduced CFU biofilm by 2–3 orders of magnitude, metabolic activities from 0.24±0.06 A540/cm2 to 0.03±0.01 A540/cm2, and lactic acid production from 27.7 ± 2.5 mmol/L to 5.4 ± 2.1 mmol/L (n = 6) (p<0.05). The DMAHDM showed an MIC value of 0.03 mg/L. However, when the DMAHDM was combined with PMGDM monomer, the MIC was greater than DMAHDM alone. The ion concentrations for the experimental groups significantly increased over time (1–84 days), indicating continuous ion release (n = 3) (p<0.05). Increasing the DMAHDM mass fraction from 0% to 5% and 3% to 5% significantly enhanced ion recharge and re-release at the third cycle (p<0.05). ConclusionsIncorporating DMAHDM and NACP into resin-based crown cement provides strong antibacterial action against saliva microcosm biofilm and presents a high level of Ca and P ion recharge abilities, exhibiting long-term Ca and P ion release and remineralization potential. Clinical SignificanceResin based cement containing NACP and DMAHDM were developed with remineralizing and potent antibacterial effects. This cement formulation showed ion release and remineralization potential and are promising formulations to inhibit the incidence of recurrent caries and could promote remineralization and be sustainable for the long term.

Experimental Investigation on Prototype Latent Heat Thermal Battery Charging and Discharging Function Integrated with Solar Collector

This paper reports the performance investigation of a newly developed Latent Heat Thermal Battery (LHTB) integrated with a solar collector as the main source of heat. The LHTB is a new solution in the field of thermal storage and developed based on the battery concept in terms of recharge ability, portability and usability as a standalone device. It is fabricated based on the thermal battery storage concept and consists of a plate-fin and tube heat exchanger located inside the battery casing and paraffin wax which is used as a latent heat storage material. Solar thermal energy is absorbed by solar collector and transferred to the LHTB using water as Heat Transfer Fluid (HTF). Charging experiments have been conducted with a HTF at three different temperatures of 68°C, 88°C and 108°C and three different flow rates of 30, 60 and 120 l/h. It is followed by discharging experiments on fully charged LHTB at three different temperatures of 68°C, 88°C and 108°C using HTF at three different flow rates of 30, 60 and 120 l/h. It is found that both higher HTF inlet temperature and flow rate have a positive impact on stored thermal energy. However, charging efficiency was decreased by increasing the HTF flow rate. The highest charging efficiency of 29% was achieved using HTF of 108°C at a flow rate of 30 l/h. Most of paraffin melted in this case, while part of the paraffin remained solid in other experiments. On the other hand, the results from discharging experiments revealed that both recovered thermal energy and recovery efficiency increased by either increasing the LHTB temperature or HTF flow rate. Highest recovered thermal energy of 5,825 KJ at 35% recovery efficiency achieved at LHTB of 108°C using 120 l/h of HTF.

Development of antibacterial composite resin containing chitosan/fluoride microparticles as pit and fissure sealant to prevent caries

ABSTRACT Objective Develop a fissure sealant containing chitosan/fluoride microparticles (C/F) with antibacterial, fluoride release and recharge ability. Materials and Methods Chitosan/fluoride microparticles were synthesized and added to Bis-GMA as C/F. The experimental group comprised 0%, 2%, 4% C/F, with ClinproTM fissure sealant as control. Antibacterial activity was detected by Alamar Blue assay and colony-forming units (CFU). Biocompatibility was determined by WST-1 and LDH test. Curing depth, flowability, tensile strength and flexural strength were measured according to the ISO standard; microhardness by Vickers hardness test. Fluoride release and recharge were recorded through ionic chromatography. Statistical analysis was performed with an independent t-test, one-way and two-way ANOVA. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results 2% and 4% C/F showed antibacterial ability with CFU ratios decreasing to 10% and 25% respectively (P < 0.01). Nonetheless, 4% C/F was concerned because biocompatibility revealed cytotoxicity compared to medium (P < 0.001). 2% C/F had superior mechanical properties to ClinproTM fissure sealant in terms of curing depth (P < 0.001), microhardness and tensile strength (P < 0.01). It had good fluoride release and recharge ability (P = 0.67). Conclusions 2% C/F could be an antibacterial sealant with good mechanical strength, fluoride release and recharge ability.

Mesoporous S,N-Codoped Carbon/CoxSy Hybrid Catalyst for Efficient Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysis in Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries

Developing high-active and low-cost bifunctional oxygen catalysts is of great concern but challenging for the commercial application of Zn–air batteries (ZABs). Herein, a hybrid material, consisting of encapsulated cobalt sulfide (CoxSy) particles and S,N-codoped carbon (SNC), was prepared via a simple template-assisted pyrolysis process. The as-prepared catalyst possesses a mass of mesopores and abundant N-doped coordination species. By a feat of synergistic effects between the encapsulated CoxSy and SNC, the hybrid displays superior electrocatalytic performances toward both oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline electrolytes, for example, a positive ORR half-wave potential of 0.802 V and a low OER overpotential of 336 mV at 10 mA cm–2, as well as excellent electrochemical stability. Moreover, the as-prepared catalyst applied in ZABs exhibits a high power density (132 mW cm–2), good rate capability, outstanding rechargeable ability, and robust cycling stability (500 h at 2 mA cm–2).

Fluoride Release and Recharging Ability of Glass Ionomer Cement Incorporating Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate fluoride release and recharging ability of glass ionomer cement incorporating hydroxyapatite nanoparticles. Materials and methods: Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (NHA) were prepared by wet chemical method, the experimental material powder (GIC- NHA hybrid) was made by combining different weight percent (1%, 5% and 10%) of nano-hydroxyapatite (NHA) powder with GIC powder. Forty disks were prepared and divided into 4 groups, ten specimens from each tested material (n=10), Control group standard GIC, GIC with 1% NHA, GIC with 5% NHA and GIC with 10% NHA. Each specimen was placed in a plastic tube containing 1 ml deionized water, stored at 37°C in an incubator and measurements of fluoride release were determined one day, one week, two week and one month using multi-parameter bench photometer. For evaluation of recharge ability, re-fluoridation of each tested disc was carried on day 30 after measurement of fluoride release and the previous procedures of fluoride release measurements were repeated again. Results: before and after recharge there was a statistically significant difference in the mean value of fluoride ion release between the control and (1%) groups, as well as a statistically significant difference between the control group and both (5% and 10%) groups, with the highest mean value recorded in (10%) group. Between the different testing intervals used in the study, there was a statistically significant difference where (P<0.001). Conclusion: incorporation of 10% nano-hydroxyapatite particles within glass ionomer cement increased fluoride ion release from GIC and its recharging ability.

Large-Pore Mesoporous-Silica-Assisted synthesis of high-performance ZnGa2O4:Cr3+/Sn4+@MSNs multifunctional nanoplatform with optimized optical probe mass ratio and superior residual pore volume for improved bioimaging and drug delivery

• A series of ZGOCS@MSNs nanospheres with different MRZM were synthesized. • The NIR-PersL performance enhances with MRZM increasing. • NIR-PersL materials based on MSNs retain the mesoporous structures for drug loading. • The ZGOCS@MSNs-7.5 nm is suitable for imaging-guided chemotherapy of tumor. Featured with excellent biocompatibility and background-free biomedical imaging, near infrared persistent luminescence (NIR-PersL) nanomaterials synthesized by mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) template have captured increasing attentions to be as a tumor theranostic nanoplatform. Unfortunately, many researches in the past decades have mainly focused on bioimaging performance of NIR-PersL nanomaterials themselves but not synergistically on tailoring the pore volume of the MSNs to optimize the drug loading/releasing performance, which greatly limits their potential application in tumor theranostics. In this work, we propose a tailorable large-pore mesoporous-silica-assisted synthesis strategy to synthesize a series of ZnGa 2 O 4 :Cr 3+ /Sn 4+ @MSNs (ZGOCS@MSNs) NIR-PersL nanospheres as nanoplatform. The ZGOCS@MSNs possess average diameters of ~ 80 nm. More interestingly, the mass ratio of ZGOCS to MSNs (MRZM) increases with the increasing of pore sizes of MSNs and the NIR-PersL performances of ZGOCS@MSNs enhance with the increase of MRZM, suggesting that MRZM plays an important role in optimizing NIR-PersL performance of the nanospheres. In vitro and in vivo NIR-PersL imaging further confirm the MRZM-dependent performance enhancement in NIR-PersL nanospheres. More importantly, the employment of large pore MSNs maintains the mesoporous structure of NIR-PersL nanospheres and the residual pore volume of ZnGa 2 O 4 :Cr 3+ /Sn 4+ @MSNs is high enough and available for efficient drug loading/releasing. Benefited from excellent rechargeable tumor NIR-PersL imaging ability and large residual cavities, ZGOCS@MSNs show high dose (~53%) of loading DOX and exhibit outstanding cancer cell killing efficiency, implying the MRZM also plays an important role in optimizing the drug loading/releasing performance of the nanospheres. In summary, the as-synthesized high performance ZnGa 2 O 4 :Cr 3+ /Sn 4+ @MSNs bi-functional nanoplatform showcases its great potential for imaging-guided cancer chemotherapy. We expect our work could take the development of NIR-PersL-based theranostic nanoplatforms a step forward.

Evaluation of ion release and the recharge ability of glass-ionomer cement containing BioUnion filler using an in vitro saliva-drop setting assembly

ObjectiveA glass-ionomer cement (GIC) containing BioUnion filler has been reported to release Zn2+ under acidic conditions and to inhibit oral bacteria on its surface. However, previous results are based on in vitro experiments under static conditions. This study aimed to assemble an in vitro saliva-drop setting to simulate in vivo conditions of the oral cavity and to investigate the ion releasing and recharging properties of the GIC containing BioUnion filler. MethodsThe effective concentrations of Zn2+ and F− against Streptococcus mutans and saliva-derived multi-species biofilms were determined. Artificial saliva was dropped on the GIC containing BioUnion filler using the in vitro saliva-drop setting assembly and was periodically replaced with acetic acid. Ion release/recharge properties were investigated by measuring the release concentrations of Zn2+ and F−. ResultsThe concentration of Zn2+ released from the BioUnion filler-containing GIC during seven days with repeated exposure to acid could be maintained at the level to inhibit S. mutans and saliva-derived multi-species biofilm formation. Moreover, the BioUnion filler-containing GIC could be recharged with Zn2+ and F− by the application of a tooth gel containing Zn2+ and F−. The release concentration of Zn2+ after recharging was significantly higher than the effective concentration of Zn2+ to hinder S. mutans and saliva-derived multi-species biofilm formation on material surfaces. SignificanceThe GIC containing BioUnion filler was shown to have the potential to inhibit biofilm formation in the oral cavity. In addition, recharging Zn2+ and F− would further enhance the effect of the GIC containing BioUnion filler.

Evaluation of F, Ca, and P release and microhardness of eleven ion-leaching restorative materials and the recharge efficacy using a new Ca/P containing fluoride varnish

ObjectivesThe objectives of this study were to evaluate fluoride (F), calcium (Ca), and phosphate (P) release of ion-leaching restorative materials (ILMs), their recharge efficacy with a Ca/P-containing F varnish, and relative microhardness. MethodsThirteen groups of materials were investigated. Cylindrical-shaped specimens were fabricated. Deionised water or lactic-acid solution were used as the storage media. Solutions were changed after 1d, 4d, 7d, and 14d of ion release and at the same periods after recharge with MI Varnish (7 -h storage). F, Ca, and P measurements were accomplished using a fluoride-ion selective electrode, atomic absorption spectrometry, and colourimetric method by spectrophotometer, respectively. Relative Vickers hardness was proceeded with similar specimens used in the F assay (4 periods). SEM/EDS was additionally performed. Statistical analyses were calculated in each parameter (p < 0.05). ResultHardness of several ILMs immediately increased after recharge. After 28d, Ketac Universal [a high-viscosity glass-ionomer cement (HVGIC)] showed the highest hardness similar to the resin composite control. Although 2 HVGICs (Zirconomer and Equia Forte Fil) ranked as first and second for F release/re-release, some HVGICs had inferior or comparable F capacity to RMGICs (Fuji VIII and Fuji II LC) and a resin-based (RB) ILM (Cention N). Cention N, Activa-Restorative (RB-ILM), and Zirconomer were the top-3 ranking for Ca release/re-release. Activa-Restorative showed the highest P release, whereas Cention N displayed the greatest recharge ability for P. ConclusionsZirconomer showed a versatile performance for ion-release/re-release, especially for F. Cention N had excellent capacity in relation to Ca release and recharge ability of Ca/P. Clinical significanceWith the F varnish recharge protocol, Zirconomer, Equia Forte, and Fuji VIII seems to have an ability to inhibit initial caries initiation. Cention N is a promising resin-based material that could be an alternative for high caries risk patients due to the high Ca release/recharge with acceptable F release.

All-solid-state flexible supercapacitor of Carbonized MXene/Cotton fabric for wearable energy storage

Flexible Carbonized MXene/Cotton fabric is prepared by dipping cotton fabric into Ti3C2Tx suspension and carbonizing the composite fabric. Cotton fabric, embedded by Ti3C2Tx flakes without the assistance of crosslinkers and binders, is the most used precursor of all carbon sources. In this work, Ti3C2Tx flakes with different concentrations ranging from 2 to 8 wt% are loaded on cotton fabric and carbonized subsequently under the temperature from 800 to 1200 °C. The highest areal capacitance dramatically reaches to 794.2 mF cm−2 (233.6 F g−1) at a scan rate of 2 mV s−1 with 6 wt% Ti3C2Tx at 1000 °C, which shows a 74% improvement compared to the carbonized cotton cloth dipped into the Ti3C2Tx dispersions under same condition. Also, the assembled all-solid-state flexible supercapacitor remains 74% of capacitance even after 10,000 charge and discharge cycles showing a stable rechargeable ability. From a variety of cellulosic materials, the method can be used to produce Ti3C2Tx composite fabrics which are promising candidates of energy storage, electromagnetic shielding, sensing, absorbing, electrocatalysis, etc.

A New Clustering-Based Approach for Target Tracking to Optimize Energy Consumption in Wireless Sensor Networks

The emergence of wireless sensor networks is counted among the most significant achievements of the late 20’s. Nowadays, by the ever increasing utilization of new technologies, accessibility of distributed processing technologies and the rising demand for these technologies in regions unreachable or hard-to-reach for humans, their application is greatly expanded. In this study, the objective application is target tracking in protected zones. In this respect, tracking and accurate position reporting of targets in the defined time unit is the main objective. Nevertheless, one of the challenges in these networks is their short lifetime. This is due to the energy limitation of the power supply in each unit. The topic of target tracking in wireless sensor networks is of great importance because on one hand, for their lack of recharge ability, sensor nodes get depleted quite quickly, while on the other hand, losing the target is a highly undesirable event that may severely hamper the functionality of the network. Thus, we are searching for a solution that minimizes tracking errors. In this paper, we propose a strategy for target tracking in wireless sensor networks that is able to generate the least possible tracking error while consuming the minimum energy.

Novel 3D Nanoporous Zn-Cu Alloy as Long-Life Anode toward High-Voltage Double Electrolyte Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries.

The recharge ability of zinc metal-based aqueous batteries is greatly limited by the zinc anode. The poor cycling durability of Zn anodes is attributed to the dendrite growth, shape change and passivation, but this issue has been ignored by using an excessive amount of Zn in the past. Herein, a 3D nanoporous (3D NP) Zn-Cu alloy is fabricated by a sample electrochemical-assisted annealing thermal method combined, which can be used directly as self-supported electrodes applied for renewable zinc-ion devices. The 3D NP architectures electrode offers high electron and ion transport paths and increased material loading per unit substrate area, which can uniformly deposit/strip Zn and improve charge storage ability. Benefiting from the intrinsic materials and architectures features, the 3D NP Zn-Cu alloy anode exhibits high areal capacity and excellent cycling stability. Further, the fabricated high-voltage double electrolyte aqueous Zn-Br2 battery can deliver maximum areal specific capacity of ≈1.56 mAh cm-2 , which is close to the level of typical commercial Li-ion batteries. The excellent performance makes it an ideal candidate for next-generation aqueous zinc-ion batteries.

Fluorinated Montmorillonite and 3YSZ as the Inorganic Fillers in Fluoride-Releasing and Rechargeable Dental Composition Resin

Dental caries (tooth decay) is the most frequent oral disease in humans. Filling cavities with a dental restorative material is the most common treatment, and glass ionomer cements are the main fluoride ion release restorative materials. The goal of this study was to develop a restorative compound with superior fluoride ion release and recharge abilities. Previously developed fluorinated bentolite and hydrophobized 3YSZ were used as two different inorganic fillers mixed in a bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA) matrix. XRD, FTIR, and TGA were used to determine the hydrophobic modification of these two inorganic fillers. In mechanical tests, including diameter tensile strength, flexural strength, and wear resistance, the developed composite resin was significantly superior to the commercial control. A WST-1 assay was used to confirm that the material displayed good biocompatibility. Furthermore, the simulation of the oral environment confirmed that the composite resin had good fluoride ion release and reloading abilities. Thus, the composite resin developed in this study may reduce secondary caries and provide a new choice for future clinical treatments.

Clinical effect of a fluoride-releasing and rechargeable primer in reducing white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment

This study was performed to test the long-term efficacy of a highly filled resin primer (38%) that has superior fluoride release and recharge ability. Sixty patients were divided into 2 groups. In group 1, adhesive-coated brackets (APC Plus Victory series, 3M Unitek, Monrovia, Calif) were bonded with a fluoride-releasing and rechargeable primer (Opal Seal; Ultradent, South Jordan, Utah). In group 2, the same adhesive-coated brackets were bonded with a conventional primer (Transbond XT Primer; 3M Unitek, Monrovia, Calif). In group 1, a blacklight source was used to examine the amount of adhesive remaining on enamel surfaces. This primer has a fluorescing agent and fluoresces under blacklight. If there was a lack of primer on any part of the enamel surrounding the brackets, new primer was added. Digital images of each tooth were taken to score and measure the area of white spot lesions (WSLs) after orthodontic treatment. DIAGNOdent (DIAGNOdent pen; KaVo Dental, Biberach, Germany) measurements were also used to assess WSLs after bracket removal. The WSL rate was 26.9% for group 1 and 29% for group 2. There was no significant difference between the WSL scores of the groups; however, a significant difference was observed in the DIAGNOdent measurements between the groups. According to area measurements of the lesions, there was no significant difference between the groups. The results of this long-term clinical study indicated that fluoride-releasing primer has no significant advantage in reducing demineralization over the control primer over the full orthodontic treatment period.