Small Pouch Research Articles

A metallic lithium anode for solid-state batteries with low volume change by utilizing a modified porous carbon host

Lithium metal is a promising negative electrode material for solid-state batteries (SSBs). However, uncontrolled lithium deposition and stripping cause several issues during cycling. Herein, the microporous carbon YP-50F and its modifications obtained by thermal ethene-based chemical vapor deposition (CVD) are investigated as 3D host to accommodate and control the deposition of metallic lithium. In half-cells vs. lithium, the CVD-YP composite electrode with Li6PS5Cl electrolyte shows significantly higher initial coulombic efficiency (79.5 %) than the pristine carbon (55.3 %) due to the reduction of side reactions. The metallic character of the deposited lithium is evidenced by 7Li Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy. However, full cells with nickel-rich NCM (LiNi0.9Co0.05Mn0.05O2) positive electrode and CVD-YP composite negative electrode show reasonable performance over 50 cycles without occurrence of (micro-) short-circuits (in contrast to 2D reference electrodes). In addition, small prototype pouch cells are investigated and the thickness change during (dis)charging is less than one third compared to a bare lithium metal electrode. This demonstrates low breathing behavior of the CVD-YP electrode and confirms the reversible storage of metallic lithium within the 3D carbon-based composite electrode.

Epiploic Appendigitis – Presenting as Acute Abdomen: Diagnostic Pitfalls and Clinical Insights

Introduction: Epiploic appendigitis is a rare, benign, self-limiting inflammatory process of the epiploic appendices. The epiploic appendices are small pouches of the peritoneum filled with fat and situated along the colon, mainly the transverse and sigmoid parts, but are absent in the rectum and have an unknown function. These appendages can become acutely inflamed as a result of torsion or venous thrombosis. Case Report: A young patient came to emergency department of our hospital with complain of pain in abdomen at left lumber region since five days. On Physical examination revealed lump at left lumber region at the site of pain. Further investigated by radiological. Discussion: Epiploic appendigitis is an uncommon condition first described by Lynn et al in 1956 and is one of the rare causes of acute abdomen secondary to the inflammation and necrosis of small finger like projections along the colon. These appendages refer to adipose structures that rise in the surface of the colon and project into the abdominal cavity. Conclusion: Given the rarity of this condition, its elusive nature and tendency to mimic acute appendicitis, diverticulitis or cholecystitis, which all may require surgical intervention, it is increasingly apparent that we should educate medical professionals on this important differential diagnosis, as early and accurate diagnosis can prevent unnecessary invasive treatments and misdiagnosis.

Automated gall bladder cancer detection using artificial gorilla troops optimizer with transfer learning on ultrasound images

The gallbladder (GB) is a small pouch and a deep tissue placed under the liver. GB Cancer (GBC) is a deadly illness that is complex to discover in an initial phase. Initial diagnosis can significantly enhance the existence rate. Non-ionizing energy, low cost, and convenience make the US a general non-invasive analytical modality for patients with GB diseases. Automatic recognition of GBC from US imagery is a significant issue that has gained much attention from researchers. Recently, machine learning (ML) techniques dependent on convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures have prepared transformational growth in radiology and medical analysis for illnesses like lung, pancreatic, breast, and melanoma. Deep learning (DL) is a region of artificial intelligence (AI), a functional medical tomography model that can help in the initial analysis of GBC. This manuscript presents an Automated Gall Bladder Cancer Detection using an Artificial Gorilla Troops Optimizer with Transfer Learning (GBCD-AGTOTL) technique on Ultrasound Images. The GBCD-AGTOTL technique examines the US images for the presence of gall bladder cancer using the DL model. In the initial stage, the GBCD-AGTOTL technique preprocesses the US images using a median filtering (MF) approach. The GBCD-AGTOTL technique applies the Inception module for feature extraction, which learns the complex and intrinsic patterns in the pre-processed image. Besides, the AGTO algorithm-based hyperparameter tuning procedure takes place, which optimally picks the hyperparameter values of the Inception technique. Lastly, the bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) model helps classify gall bladder cancer. A series of simulation analyses were performed to ensure the performance of the GBCD-AGTOTL technique on the GBC dataset. The experimental outcomes inferred the enhanced abilities of the GBCD-AGTOTL in detecting gall bladder cancer.

Converting a low-cost industrial polymer into organic cathodes for high mass-loading aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) using organic cathodes have emerged as a sustainable energy storage technology benefitting from high safety, low cost, and abundant feedstocks. However, most organic cathodes are n-type polyaromatic compounds and conjugated polymers, which require sophisticated synthesis, provide a low operational voltage and slow Zn2+ diffusion kinetics. Herein, we report access to p-type radical polymer cathodes from a commercially available poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic anhydride) (poly(MVE-alt-MA)) polymer. The modification of poly(MVE-alt-MA) with 4-amino-TEMPO produces radical polymers (PTEMPO) that are easily scalable to tens of grams. The corresponding polymer AZIBs deliver a capacity of 92 mAh g-1 at 10 C with 95 % capacity retention over 1000 cycles. Importantly, the electrode composites and battery assembly procedure are optimised so that no fluoro-containing electrolytes and binders are needed, and cheap carbon additives can be used. We assemble the Swagelok batteries, small pouch, and large pouch batteries with a high mass-loading of 7.8 to 50 mg cm-2, demonstrating nearly 100 % Coulombic efficiency. The pouch battery with 0.8–0.9 g of active polymer displayed a 60-mAh capacity with 1.5 V operational voltage. This work paves the way for simple and practical implementation of polymer AZIBs for real-world applications.

Redefining Statin Dosage Post-Gastric Bypass: Insights from a Population Pharmacokinetics-Pharmacodynamics Link Approach.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) involves creating a small stomach pouch, bypassing part of the small intestine, and rerouting the digestive tract. These alterations can potentially change the drug exposure and response. Our primary aim was to assess the impact of RYGB on the pharmacokinetics of simvastatin lactone (SV) and its active metabolite, simvastatin hydroxy acid (SVA). Ultimately, we aimed to optimize dosing for this understudied population by employing a population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic link approach. The study comprised patients who had undergone RYGB surgery and individuals without a previous history of RYGB. All participants received a single oral dose of simvastatin. Plasma concentration data were analyzed with a nonlinear mixed-effect modeling approach. A parent-metabolite model with first-order absorption, 2-compartments for SV and 1-compartment for SVA, linear elimination, and enterohepatic circulation best described the data. The model was linked to the turnover pharmacodynamic model to describe the SVA inhibition on LDL-cholesterol production. Our simulations indicated that following RYGB surgery, the exposure to SV and SVA decreased by 40%. Consequently, for low-intensity statin patients, we recommend increasing the dose from 10 to 20 mg in post-RYGB patients to maintain a comparable response to that of non-operated subjects. Moderate-intensity statin patients should require increasing doses to 40 or 60 mg or the addition of a non-statin medication to achieve similar therapeutic outcomes. In conclusion, individuals post-RYGB exhibit diminished exposure to SV and may benefit from increasing the dose or adjunctive therapy with non-statin drugs to attain equivalent responses and mitigate potential adverse events.

Flow Diversion Effect in a Saphenous Vein Graft Aneurysm Using a Double-Layer Micromesh Stent: A Case Report.

A double-layer micromesh stent is designed for the treatment of carotid artery stenosis that has been reported to potentially provide a flow diversion effect. However, the actual flow diversion effect of stents remains unclear. Here, we present a case of a growing saphenous vein graft (SVG) aneurysm treated with the placement of the double-layer micromesh stent using its flow diversion effect. A 66-year-old woman, who underwent high-flow bypass using a SVG for a blister-like internal carotid artery aneurysm 13 years earlier at our institute, was referred to our hospital with a pulsatile cervical mass. Magnetic resonance angiography showed a 9-mm aneurysm on the left SVG, although the aneurysm was a small pouch 4 years earlier. Digital subtracted angiography demonstrated a 9.4 × 8.3-mm aneurysm from the SVG at the auricular level. Because the diameter of the graft was larger than that of the available flow diverter stents in Japan, we decided to place the double-layer micromesh stent (CASPER RX, 7 × 25 mm MicroVention) using its flow diversion effect. Computational fluid dynamics analysis before and after stent deployment showed a significant reduction in the average flow velocity and wall shear stress in the aneurysm, indicating actual flow diversion. An angiogram 2 months postoperatively showed complete obliteration of the aneurysm. Obliteration of the saphenous vein aneurysm was achieved because of the flow diversion effect of the double-layer micromesh stent. The stents might be a feasible alternative for treating cervical carotid aneurysms.

Small pouches, but high nicotine doses-nicotine delivery and acute effects after use of tobacco-free nicotine pouches.

Tobacco-free nicotine pouches are new nicotine products for oral consumption. They can contain very high nicotine amounts that have not been addressed with clinical studies yet. Thus, nicotine delivery, effects on craving, and side effects were assessed using pouches with up to 30mg nicotine. In this single-center, five-arm, crossover study, 15 regular cigarette smokers consumed tobacco-free nicotine pouches from different brands with 6, 20, and 30mg for 20min. Comparators were nicotine-free pouches and tobacco cigarettes. At baseline and predefined time points over a study period of 240min, plasma nicotine concentrations, effects on cigarette craving, and side effects were assessed. Cardiovascular parameters including arterial stiffness were measured using a MobilOGraph. Consumption of 30mg nicotine pouches has led to a higher nicotine uptake compared with the cigarette (Cmax: 29.4 vs 15.2ng/mL; AUC: 45.7 vs 22.1ng/mL × h). Nicotine uptake in the acute phase was rapid during use of the 30mg pouch and cigarette. Extraction rate of nicotine differed between pouches. Use of all products has reduced acute cigarette craving, even the nicotine-free pouch. During consumption of the cigarette and the pouches with 20 and 30mg, heart rate increased about 27, 12, and 25 bpm, respectively. Parameters for arterial stiffness were elevated and all pouches have induced mouth irritations. The pouches with 30mg nicotine had overall the strongest side effects and may induce addiction. As craving was also reduced by products with less nicotine, it is questionable whether such high nicotine contents should be allowed on the market. A limit of nicotine content is warranted. The nicotine release rate varies across products and needs to be known to estimate the nicotine delivery.

A Knight’s Thrust: Was the Use of a Codpiece for Protection or for Exertion of Masculinity? An Evaluation through History and its Reemergence in Modern Times

Objectives Medieval military history is marked by an evolution of armor design and protection that was driven by advances in weaponry. The codpiece was a 14th century innovation to provide a genital shield in battle but was used in civilian life as well. Our objective was to clarify whether the codpiece served as an essential component of a knight’s safe keeping or as a mere outward display of virility. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar. Primary historical texts, museum archives, scholarly works, popular media, documentaries, and artwork were reviewed. Results The armor used in the early Middle Ages was chain mail, which covered the neck, trunk, and upper arms and legs but failed to protect against blunt injury to the groin as weaponry became increasingly powerful. Full plate armor, developed by the 1300s, eventually included the codpiece, a small metal pouch to house the genitalia. In the late 1400s, however, codpieces appeared in civilian wear, modestly laced to men’s stockings as upper body shirts and tunics became shorter. Codpieces quickly became more ostentatious and bulkier in an ‘Arms Race’ of masculinity, were soon ridiculed in contemporary satires including works by Shakespeare and Rabelais and inspired royal edicts limiting their use. However, the codpiece was used in the management of genital disease as well, as the bulky wraps and ointments used to treat endemic syphilis were thus more easily concealed. The codpiece fell out of fashion by the late 16th century but its descendants, in sports and the performing arts, still have practical use today in genital protection and in men’s haute couture clothing design. Conclusions In the medieval battlefield, the codpiece was both protective and assertive of masculinity. Its military popularity eventually waned as armored battle proved no match for more modern weaponry, but the codpiece had a long influence on sartorial culture. The codpiece’s modern descendant, the athletic ‘cup’, has therefore a long and most unusual history in the pages of war and Renaissance clothing.

A Knight’s Thrust: Was the Use of a Codpiece for Protection or for Exertion of Masculinity? An Evaluation through History and its Reemergence in Modern Times

Objectives Medieval military history is marked by an evolution of armor design and protection that was driven by advances in weaponry. The codpiece was a 14th century innovation to provide a genital shield in battle but was used in civilian life as well. Our objective was to clarify whether the codpiece served as an essential component of a knight’s safe keeping or as a mere outward display of virility. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar. Primary historical texts, museum archives, scholarly works, popular media, documentaries, and artwork were reviewed. Results The armor used in the early Middle Ages was chain mail, which covered the neck, trunk, and upper arms and legs but failed to protect against blunt injury to the groin as weaponry became increasingly powerful. Full plate armor, developed by the 1300s, eventually included the codpiece, a small metal pouch to house the genitalia. In the late 1400s, however, codpieces appeared in civilian wear, modestly laced to men’s stockings as upper body shirts and tunics became shorter. Codpieces quickly became more ostentatious and bulkier in an ‘Arms Race’ of masculinity, were soon ridiculed in contemporary satires including works by Shakespeare and Rabelais and inspired royal edicts limiting their use. However, the codpiece was used in the management of genital disease as well, as the bulky wraps and ointments used to treat endemic syphilis were thus more easily concealed. The codpiece fell out of fashion by the late 16th century but its descendants, in sports and the performing arts, still have practical use today in genital protection and in men’s haute couture clothing design. Conclusions In the medieval battlefield, the codpiece was both protective and assertive of masculinity. Its military popularity eventually waned as armored battle proved no match for more modern weaponry, but the codpiece had a long influence on sartorial culture. The codpiece’s modern descendant, the athletic ‘cup’, has therefore a long and most unusual history in the pages of war and Renaissance clothing.

Transumbilical Stapling Technic of OAGB.

Single-port or single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is esteemed for its efficacy in achieving superior postoperative cosmetic outcomes compared to the conventional laparoscopic approach (Behnia-Willison et al. in Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 52:366-370, 2012; Rogula et al. in Obes Surg 24:1102-1108, 2014; Pitot et al. in Surg Endosc 28:3007-3011, 2014). The introduction of SILS for bariatric procedures can be attributed to the pioneering work of Saber in 2008, who initially applied this technique to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG), followed by its utilization in laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (AGB) (Saber et al. in Obes Surg 18:1338-1342, 2008;Nguyen et al. in Obes Surg 18:1628-1631, 2008). The inaugural application of SILS in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) was documented in 2009, employing a plastic reconstruction methodology. Acknowledging the intricate nature of complex bariatric interventions, we previously detailed a modified SILS approach termed the transumbilical two-site (TUTS) technique for RYGB, which was established as a standard procedure in 2010 (Lee et al. in Surg Obes Relat Dis. 8:208-13, 2012). At that juncture, a solitary article surfaced in 2010 elucidating the dimensions of the small gastric pouch as a mere 8-9cm, falling short of contemporary surgical requisites for optimal outcomes in one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) (Tacchino et al. in Obes Surg 20:1154-1160, 2010). Notably, the TUTS technique, which was successfully implemented for RYGB, had hitherto not been extended to OAGB due to the complexities associated with creating a slender gastric tube spanning 25cm. In a pioneering development this year, we have devised a novel strategy to surmount this challenge. The present study is designed to expound upon the transumbilical stapling technique tailored to the unique demands of OAGB.

Investigations into a Perforated Reference Electrode Applied in Small Li-Ion Pouch Cells

The use of reference electrodes (REs) in lithium-ion batteries allows enhanced electrochemical analysis of individual electrodes via potential monitoring or electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The design and material choice of REs is still under debate. An ideal RE should cover a large proportion of the electrode area in order to measure representative potentials, but also not block the pathway of the lithium ions significantly to avoid distorted measurements. Here, we show studies on an own-designed perforated RE (PRE) based on LiFePO4 applied in ≈60 mAh graphite/NMC811 pouch cells.[1] In our setup shown below, more than 17% of the electrode area is covered and therefore monitored by the PRE, which is a more than fourfold increase compared to our previous work.[2] Despite this large cover proportion, only negligible capacity differences were observed for charge rates up to 2C compared to cells without PRE. At higher rates, the blocking effect caused by the PRE was still very low (7.3% reduced capacity compared to cells without PRE at 5C). Reproducible and plausible anode voltage curves were obtained for all C-rates and the beginning of Li plating at 3C was correctly detected (visually verified by cell teardown). Comparison tests showed that the PRE presence did not have significat influence on the cell EIS spectra. Except for one anode spectrum recorded at a state of charge of 0, the impedance spectra of the individual electrodes recorded by the PRE were confirmative and artifact-free. The results demonstrate that our PRE can be reliably applied for detailed electrochemical investigations of lab-scale electrode coatings in small pouch cell formats.[1] P. Stehle, D. Rutz, A. M. Bazzoun, C. Seidl, I. Bauer, M. Anjass, Energy Technol. 2023, 2300278, DOI: 10.1002/ente.202300278.[2] D. Rutz, F. Brauchle, P. Stehle, I. Bauer, T. Jacob, ChemElectroChem 2023, e202300216, DOI: 10.1002/celc.202300216. Figure 1

Sexual dimorphism in the proventriculus of the buff-tailed bumblebee Bombus terrestris (L. 1758) (Hymenoptera: Apidae).

Research on eusocial bee species like Bombus terrestris is primarily focused on the worker caste, which is why their morphology and anatomy are already well described. This includes the alimentary tract, which is adapted for feeding on nectar and pollen. Located at the transition between crop and ventriculus is a highly specialised compartment, the proventriculus. In female workers of B. terrestris, the proventriculus is surrounded by muscles and consists of four anterior lips. A detailed description, however, is only provided for B. terrestis worker bees while studies on the proventriculus of the male reproductive caste are absent. Here, we provide a detailed analysis of the differences between the proventriculus of the B. terrestris males and females through morphometrics, histology and scanning electron microscopy imaging, and unravel a distinct sexual dimorphism. The male proventriculus is wider resulting in a greater volume than the female proventriculus. Histological analysis revealed 4 distinctive chambers of the male proventriculus, which are completely covered with hairs on the inside. In contrast, those chambers in the proventriculus of female B. terrestris, are only rudimentarily present forming only small pouches with hairs in the junctions between the proventricular folds inside the proventriculus. The morphological differences in the proventriculus may be based on different modi vivendi, as males do not return to the colony and fly longer distances. This and the synthesis of sperm and mating plug might require higher energy reserves, leading to the necessity of higher food storage capacities.

Comparison of 1-year outcomes between Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y duodenojejunal bypass in the patients of obesity with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Objective: To compare the 1-year effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y duodenal bypass (SG+RYDJB) on weight loss, remission of diabetes, and postoperative complications in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2020 to December 2020. Sixty-four patients with type 2 diabetes and body mass index (BMI) of 27.5-40.0 kg/m2 were included in this study and divided into the RYGB group (n=34) and the SG+RYDJB group (n=30). In both procedures, the biliopancreatic branch was measured 100 cm distal to the Treitz ligament, and the food branch was measured 100 cm distal to the gastric or duodenojejunal anastomosis. Patients were followed up by telephone or WeChat, a free messaging and calling app at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively to determine their weight loss and remission of diabetes. The primary outcomes were the weight loss and reduction in blood glucose concentrations at 1 year after surgery and postoperative complications. Other postoperative changes, including body weight, BMI, percentage of total weight loss (%TWL), percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and fasting blood glucose at 1 year after surgery were also assessed. Results: There were no significant differences in baseline data between the two groups (all P>0.05). No conversion to open surgery or death occurred in either group. Operation time was longer in the SG+RYDJB than the RYGB group (137.8±22.1 minutes vs. 80.0±24.9 minutes, t=9.779, P<0.001) and the incidence of perioperative complications was higher in the SG+RYDJB than the RYGB group (20% [6/30] vs. 2.9% [1/34], χ2=4.761, P=0.029). However, the postoperative hospital stay was similar between the two groups [3.0 (3.0, 4.3) days vs. 3.0 (4.0, 6.0) days, U=641.500, P=0.071]. Perioperative complications comprised small gastric pouch anastomotic leakage in one patient in the RYGB group and leakage (three patients) and bleeding (two patients with gastrointestinal bleeding and one with trocar site bleeding) in the SG+RYDJB group. Long-term complications were as follows. The incidence of anemia was significantly higher in the RYGB than the SG+RYDJB group (26.5% [9/34] vs. 3.3% [1/30], χ2=6.472, P=0.011). However, there were no significant differences in incidences of postoperative reflux, dumping syndrome, alopecia, diarrhea, constipation or foul-smelling flatus between the two groups (all P>0.05). Compared with 1 year before surgery, the body weights and fasting plasma glucose concentrations of patients in the SG+RYDJB and RYGB group (72.4±10.6 kg vs. 98.5±14.2 kg, respectively; 68.2±10.0 kg vs. 91.9±14.8 kg, respectively), BMI (25.2±2.9 kg/m2 vs. 34.3±4.2 kg/m2, respectively; 24.3±2.4 kg/m2 vs. 32.7±3.7 kg/m2, respectively) (5.5±1.6 vs. 10.6±3.3, respectively; 5.8±2.1 vs. 9.0±3.4, respectively); HbA1c (5.7±0.8 vs. 9.7±1.2, respectively; 9.1±1.9 vs. 5.9±0.9, respectively) were significantly lower at 1 year after surgery (all P<0.05). However, the % TWL (26.5%±6.0% vs. 25.6%±4.4%, t=0.663, P=0.510) and % EWL (109.1%±38.2% vs. 109.4%±40.3%, t=-0.026, P=0.026), rate of complete remission of diabetes at 1 year (80.0% [24/30] vs. 82.4% [28/34], χ2=0.058, P=0.810] did not differ significantly between the two groups (all P>0.05). Conclusions: Although SG+RYDJB surgery compared with RYGB is more difficult to perform, it can achieve similar weight loss and remission of diabetes and is associated with a lower incidence of anemia because of the preservation of the pylorus.

Predicting the discharge capacity of a lithium-ion battery after nail puncture using a Gaussian process regression with incremental capacity analysis

This work uses a Gaussian process regression to predict the discharge capacity of small Lithium-ion pouch cells after a nail puncture. Previous studies have shown that cells can operate at a reduced capacity after experiencing abuse similar to what can be seen during extreme field operation, where the ability to predict cell functionality can be critical to safety. Other studies have shown that different features of cell incremental capacity curves can be used to determine the extent of cell degradation during normal operation, which can be used to predict future operation. For this work, 15 cells are punctured with a nail and allowed to continue operating for 100 total cycles to collect data. The incremental capacity curves are calculated, then the magnitude and corresponding voltage of the highest peak are determined. A Gaussian process regression is used to predict the discharge capacity during operation after the nail punctures. The results show a mean coefficient of determination of 0.923 with a median value of 0.95, a mean root mean square error of 0.013 and median value of 0.09, and a mean absolute error of 0.011 with a median value of 0.08, indicating the regression can be useful in predicting discharge capacity.

Tobacco purchasing in Australia during regular tax increases: findings from the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project

ObjectiveWe examined Australian tobacco purchasing trends, the average self-reported price paid within each purchase type and the association between type of tobacco product purchased and participant characteristics, including quit intentions,...

Depletion of Electrolyte Salt during Calendaric Aging at High State-of-Charge in Li-Ion Batteries

Batteries using Ni-rich cathode active materials are the most common cells in the automotive sector. They offer a high energy density at competitive prices which makes them attractive in a wide-range of applications.[1,2] However, a higher Ni-content results in more challenges for battery lifetime in comparison to low-Ni materials. These challenges are aggravated at elevated temperatures and high SOCs, stemming from detrimental side-reaction, such as parasitic heat and oxygen release.[3–6] In this study, we investigated an aging effect which is relevant in a wide-range of cell formats ranging from small single layer pouch cells to automotive cells. Upon storing cells at a high SOC at elevated temperatures (30 days, 45 °C) a significant drop in rate-performance was visible afterwards. At the same time, no active Li-loss and no significant increase in 10 second DCIR resistance at 50%SOC was seen. We propose a mechanism of LiPF6-loss during storage as the main reason for the worsened rate-performance.By conducting ion chromatography (IC) and NMR analysis of electrolytes from aged cells, it was found that cells stored at an upper cut-off potential of 4.2 to 4.4 V lose a significant fraction of LiPF6 after a 30-day storage at 45 °C. In addition to these storage experiments, cells with fresh electrolyte, but lower electrolyte salt concentrations (1 M LiPF6 to 0.2 M LiPF6) were built, with the goal of using them as a calibration curve to map the worsened rate performance after storage onto a corresponding electrolyte salt concentration without the need of a destructive analysis of the cells. As seen in Figure 1, the rate performance of freshly built single layer pouch cell is highly dependent on the electrolyte salt concentration. While all cells show good discharge capacities at C/10, at higher discharge rates the lower concentration cells show a worsened performance. 1 M LP572 cells show excellent rate-capabilities up to a rate of 2C and a 0.2 M cell already has a significant drop in discharge capacity at C/2. Using OEMS, electrochemical impedance measurements and theoretical models we further elucidate the mechanism of LiPF6-loss at elevated temperatures and high SOCs.

Diverticular Disease: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach

Diverticular disease is a common gastrointestinal condition that primarily affects the colon. It is characterized by the presence of small pouches or diverticula in the wall of the colon. Although diverticular disease can affect people of different ages, it is more prevalent as we age. Understanding this disease's epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment is essential to provide optimal management to patients. Continued research in this field is needed to improve prevention, diagnosis and treatment options, to reduce the burden of diverticular disease and improve patients' quality of life.

Application of Perforated Reference Electrodes in Small Cell Formats for Rate Tests and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy

The use of reference electrodes (REs) in lithium‐ion batteries allows enhanced electrochemical analysis of individual electrodes via potential monitoring or electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The previous publication presents a concept for a laser‐perforated RE (PRE). Herein, this PRE is applied in ≈60 mAh graphite/NMC811 pouch cells. Despite more than 17% of the electrode surface being covered by the PRE, only negligible capacity differences are observed for charge rates up to 2C compared to cells without PRE. At higher rates up to 5C, the blocking effect is present but stable. Reproducible and plausible anode voltage curves are obtained and the beginning of Li plating is detected. Cell EIS spectra are in good agreement with comparison cells without RE. The impedance spectra of the individual electrodes recorded by the PRE are confirmative and, with one exception, artifact‐free. The results demonstrate that our PRE can be reliably applied for investigating lab‐scale electrode coatings in small pouch cell formats.

CLINICAL AND THERAPEUTIC ASPECTS OF DIVERTICULITIS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Diverticulitis is a gastrointestinal condition in which diverticula (small sacs or pouches) in the colon become inamed or infected. This article is a review of the current understanding of diverticulitis and covers its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Epidemiological studies have shown that diverticulitis mainly affects older adults and the incidence increases with age. The Western diet, which is high in fat and low in ber, has been implicated in the development of diverticulitis. The most common presenting symptom is abdominal pain, often localized to the left lower quadrant, and other symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. The diagnosis of diverticulitis is based on a combination of clinical, radiologic, and laboratory ndings. The preferred imaging modality is computed tomography (CT) with intravenous contrast. Mild cases can often be managed with conservative measures, such as bowel rest, antibiotics, and pain management. More severe cases may require hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Surgery may be required in cases of complicated diverticulitis, such as perforation, abscess formation, or stula formation, and in patients with recurrent diverticulitis. In conclusion, further research is needed to better understand the epidemiology of diverticulitis and its risk factors, especially in developing countries where the incidence of diverticulitis is believed to be lower

"The Fake"

Inspired by a conversation with Doran Ross (1947–2020), a leading African art scholar and curator who revolutionized the field of African art, this article discusses the adventures of fieldwork – in particular, its unpredictable nature. More specifically, it presents my experiences conducting an archaeological ethnography of nineteenth-century Islamic talismans in Asante (Ghana), and the matter of the “fake”. Islamic talismans comprise inscriptions written directly onto paper, folded, encased in a string binding, and sewn into small leather or silver pouches, to be worn, hung, and/or buried. Engaging artifacts, texts, and their stories passed down through the generations, I studied Islamic talismans together with their owners and/or custodians, most of whom were unaware of their contents until we examined them together. In this article, I reveal how on one occasion, we examined a talisman that was different. Ostensibly the “genuine” article, this simulated object emulated talismans’ outwardly material features, but instead contained a small piece of wood rather than paper inscriptions.