Temperature Conditions Research Articles

Latitude- and temperature-based optimization of beam-down solar central receiver systems

Optical and energetic characteristics are studied for beam-down solar central receiver (SCR) systems. The geometrical configuration of the beam-down SCR system is optimized for maximum solar-to-thermal conversion efficiency, taking into account the effects of latitude and receiver temperature. System characterization and optimization are undertaken with a numerical model combining an in-house developed Monte-Carlo ray tracing optical model and a simplified receiver heat transfer model. A differential evolution (DE) algorithm is applied to automate the optimization process. Parallel computing using OpenMP is employed to reduce the computational time. From the simulations, the optimized optical configurations of the beam-down SCR systems under the specified conditions of receiver temperature and latitude are discovered. Under the assumptions made in this study, it is found that the acquired radiative power at the receiver aperture from the optimized systems ranges from about 35 MW to 45 MW, and the eccentricity of the hyperboloidal tower reflector is between 1.6 and 1.7. The maximum achievable solar-to-thermal conversion efficiency decreases from 0.43 to 0.36 when an SCR system operated at 1,800 K is moved from latitude 0° to 50°, mainly due to the increased cosine and shading losses with higher latitudes. In addition to reduced efficiencies, the heliostat field gets larger for higher latitudes, worsening its techno-economic performance when considering the cost per unit of useful energy output. A clear trend of efficiency decrease with the higher receiver temperature is demonstrated, resulting from the significant increase of receiver radiative emission losses with the temperature.

ИЗУЧЕНИЕ ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТИ ПРИМЕНЕНИЯ ИННОВАЦИОННЫХ ВИДОВ БИОКОРРЕКТОРОВ ДЛЯ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ КАЧЕСТВОМ И НУТРИЕНТНЫМ СОСТАВОМ МИКРОЗЕЛЕНИ КАК ИСТОЧНИКА ПИЩЕВЫХ ФУНКЦИОНАЛЬНЫХ ИНГРЕДИЕНТОВ

The aim of the study is to develop mechanisms for controlling the activity of the photosynthesis process of individual types of microgreens during vegetation in a closed system of an urban-type phytotron to obtain the maximum possible, genetically determined content of essential phytonutrients, which can subsequently be used as a source of functional ingredients in the diet for the prevention of alimentary diseases. The results of the development of the main elements of biotechnology for growing microgreens in an urban-type phytotron are presented. The obtained results characterize the efficiency of regulation of the activity of metabolic processes occurring during the cultivation of microgreens in the conditions of an urban-type phytotron by controlling individual elements of the biotechnological process – optimization of seed germination technology, intensity and spectrum of light illumination, differentiation of daily temperature and light conditions, use of individual and/or complex bioinducers to control the quality and nutrient composition of microgreens as a source of food functional ingredients for healthy nutrition.The comparative efficiency of treating the studied crops with inorganic phytoinducers 1-germatranol and 1-ethoxysilatrane was established in comparison with the use of microbiological synthesis preparations Nikfan, Azotovit and Super mycorrhiza. The highest indicators for productivity, total content of chlorophyll, carotenoids, phenolic substances, vitamin C and total antioxidant activity were found in samples treated with inorganic preparations 1-germatranol, 1-ethoxysilatrane and organic preparation Super mycorrhiza. It is recommended to use environmentally friendly microgreens grown using optimized technology with a given composition of phytochemical compounds and a high content of functional nutrients for constructing diets for functional and personalized nutrition.

An iteratively reweighted robust regression model for PV electrical and thermal performance using actual measurement data

The performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules is inherently dynamic, governed by a complex interplay of meteorological factors such as solar irradiance, temperature, and atmospheric conditions. Accurately and effectively predicting this performance remains a crucial area of research. This study aims to establish the correlation between meteorological parameters and power output as well as cell temperature. For this purpose, a prediction model was developed using iteratively reweighted robust regression to estimate both power output and cell temperature. Robust regression models were developed using real measurement data from the PV system and weather station established at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE) of the proposed model for power output are 0.9870 and 0.0542, respectively. For cell temperature, these values are 0.8443 and 0.2194, respectively. The R2 and RMSE statistics of the proposed models indicate successful performance for the climatic conditions studied. Additionally, a series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the sensitivity of the proposed models to the variation in PV performance across regions. Therefore, the developed model is recommended as a powerful tool for predicting the electrical and thermal performance of PV systems.

Canola responds differently to nitrogen forms under temperature and carbon dioxide conditions

Canola responds differently to nitrogen forms under temperature and carbon dioxide conditions

Unraveling the Dusty Environment around RT Vir

Abstract Infrared (IR) studies of asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars are critical to our understanding of the formation of cosmic dust. In this investigation, we explore the mid- to far-IR emission of the oxygen-rich AGB star RT Virginis. This optically thin dusty environment has unusual spectral features when compared to other stars in its class. To explore this enigmatic object we use the one-dimensional radiative transfer modeling code DUSTY. Modeled spectra are compared with observations from the Infrared Space Observatory, InfraRed Astronomical Satellite, the Herschel Space Observatory, and a host of other sources to determine the properties of RT Vir's circumstellar material. Our models suggest a set of two distant and cool dust shells at low optical depths (τ V,inner = 0.16, τ V,outer = 0.06), with inner dust temperatures T 1 = 330 K, T 3 = 94 K. Overall, these dust shells exhibit a chemical composition consistent with dust typically found around O-rich AGB stars. However, the distribution of materials differs significantly. The inner shell consists of a mixture of silicates, Al2O3, FeO, and Fe, while the outer shell primarily contains crystalline Al2O3 polymorphs. This chemical change is indicative of two distinct epochs of dust formation around RT Vir. These changes in dust composition are driven by either changes in the pressure–temperature conditions around the star or by a decrease in the C/O ratio due to hot-bottom burning.

The spinel to garnet phase transition in the systems MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 and CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2: new experiments to resolve long-standing discrepancies

The pressure and temperature conditions of the transition from spinel to garnet as the stable aluminous phase in peridotite lithologies of the upper mantle is integral to elucidating the tectonic significance of the ‘garnet signature’ in basalts. It provides an essential constraint on models of mantle partial melting and oceanic crust formation. Existing experimental results on the univariant phase transition in the simple systems MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 (MAS) and CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 (CMAS) are mutually inconsistent. To resolve this, we have re-determined the P-T coordinates of the univariant transition in both synthetic systems by running experiments containing both systems simultaneously in the piston-cylinder apparatus, along with the MgO-ZnO pressure sensor. These experiments show a ~ 0.4 GPa difference in the pressure of the spinel/garnet phase transition between the two chemical systems at 1400 ºC, double that inferred from a compilation of existing experimental data. Absolute pressure in these experiments can be verified using the MgO-ZnO sensor. The results imply that the thermodynamic data used in recent mineral equations of state based on the Holland-Powell thermodynamic dataset are substantially correct.

Changes in the frequency of sharp cold snaps in spring during the XXI century in Ukraine and their impact on agricultural production

Aim. Identification of trends in the frequency of sharp inter-day decreases in the average daily air temperature of varying intensity in spring in the agroclimatic zones of Ukraine and their likely change by the end of the twenty-first century for climate scenarios of representative concentration pathways of greenhouse gas emissions RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. Methods. Solving the set tasks envisaged the application of both conventional scientific and specialized research methods: analytical and synthetic – to analyze the current state of research, statistical – to assess the intensity and significance of changes in the frequency of sharp inter-day air temperature drops of varying intensity, comparative analysis – to identify their specificities in agroclimatic zones of Ukraine, climatic – to characterize extreme temperature conditions, modeling – to assess their changes in the short, medium and long term under the implementation of RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. Results. The current state of changes in the extremes of temperature conditions in spring, in particular, sharp inter-day changes in air temperature of varying intensity (severe, very severe, extremely cold snaps) in the agroclimatic zones of Ukraine, is considered. Sharp cold snaps aggravate agricultural production since the decrease in temperature by 4–10 °C or more often leads to light frosts, which may cause partial or complete death of plants. The specificities of their frequency and intensity in 1981–2020 were determined. It was found that in spring, the sharpest cold snaps of 4–6 ºС in Ukraine occur 2–4 times per season; they are most frequent (3–4 times) in the western and eastern Forest-Steppe and Polissia. Very severe cold snaps of 6–10 ºС are observed 2–3 times less – from 6–8 cases in 10 years in the southern Steppe to 13–16 cases in Polissia, in the western and eastern Forest-Steppe. The extremely cold snaps of 10 ºС and more are rare in spring in Ukraine – from 2–3 to 8–9 cases in one hundred years. Conclusions. It was determined that despite a considerable increase in air temperature in Ukraine, Europe, and Arctic latitudes, the earlier beginning of the warm season and vegetation season, the number of spring days with severe, very severe, and extremely severe cold snaps is increasing in almost the entire territory of Ukraine. The north-eastern and eastern regions of the country are most vulnerable due to the registered highest increase in air temperature and frequency of sharp cold snaps. There may be fewer sharp cold snaps in the short- and long-term perspective in Ukraine as compared to the current climatic period. Still, the frequency of extremely cold snaps (over 10 ºС a day) will increase by the end of the century, especially in Polissia, and the western and central Forest-Steppe. These changes may result in premature termination of the vegetation period, damage to primordia and fruits, impairments to normal plant development, and a significant effect on crop productivity.

Detecting the Phenological Threshold to Assess the Grassland Restoration in the Nanling Mountain Area of China

The dynamics of vegetation changes and phenology serve as key indicators of interannual changes in vegetation productivity. Monitoring the changes in the Nanling grassland ecosystem using the remote sensing vegetation index is crucial for the rational development, utilization, and protection of these grassland resources. Grasslands in the hilly areas of southern China’s middle and low mountains have a high restoration efficiency due to the favorable combination of water and temperature conditions. However, the dynamic adaptation process of grassland restoration under the combined effects of climate change and human activities remains unclear. The aim of this study was to conduct continuous phenological monitoring of the Nanling grassland ecosystem, and evaluate its seasonal characteristics, trends, and the thresholds for grassland changes. The Normalized Difference Phenology Index (NDPI) values of Nanling Mountains’ grasslands from 2000 to 2021 was calculated using MOD09A1 images from the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. The Savitzky–Golay filter and Mann–Kendall test were applied for time series smoothing and trend analysis, and growing seasons were extracted annually using Seasonal Trend Decomposition and LOESS. A segmented regression method was then employed to detect the thresholds for grassland ecosystem restoration based on phenology and grassland cover percentage. The results showed that (1) the NDPI values increased significantly (p < 0.01) across all grassland patches, particularly in the southeast, with a notable rise from 2010 to 2014, and following an eastern to western to central trend mutation sequence. (2) the annual lower and upper NDPI thresholds of the grasslands were 0.005~0.167 and 0.572~0.727, which mainly occurred in January–March and June–September, respectively. (3) Most of the time series in the same periods showed increasing trends, with the growing season length varying from 188 to 247 days. (4) The overall potential productivity of the Nanling grassland improved. (5) The restoration of the mountain grasslands was significantly associated with the grassland coverage and mean NDPI values, with a key threshold identified at a mean NDPI value of 0.5 for 2.1% grassland coverage. This study indicates that to ensure the sustainable development and conservation of grassland ecosystems, targeted management strategies should be implemented, particularly in regions where human factors significantly influence grassland productivity fluctuations.

The Effects of Malting and Extrusion on the Functional and Physical Properties of Extrudates from Malted Brown Rice and Pigeon Pea Flour Blends

Malted grains subjected to extrusion technology could have better quality indices than non-malted grains. The effects of malting and extrusion on the functional and physical qualities of foods extruded from malted brown rice and pigeon pea flour blends were investigated. Malted pigeon pea and brown rice flours were processed into blends, extruded under various conditions of feed moisture levels (15–20), feed compositions (8–30%), and barrel temperatures (100–130 °C), and analyzed using Response Surface Methodology with a Box–Behnken design. The impacts of malting and extrusion were assessed on the following functional qualities: bulk density, rheology, swelling capacity, water absorption capacity, and solubility. The physical quality assessment included a 2-D photographic representation of the extrudates, a microscopic assessment of their internal structure, expansion index, color parameters (L*, a*, b*), and alterations in the color index. Increased feed moisture, malted pigeon pea, and decreased barrel temperature resulted in a higher bulk density (0.72 to 0.84 g/cm3) of the extrudates. There was a decrease in water absorption capacity (6.82–4.49%) with an increase in barrel temperature above 100 °C. All the samples showed a decrease in viscosity with increasing shear rate. At low barrel temperatures, feed compositions, and feed moistures, extrusion led to increases in the expansion index (3.5 to 12.94) and the color lightness (66.83–81.71) of the extrudates. Samples with a higher proportion of malted brown rice showed a higher expansion index, lower bulk density, and lighter color of the extrudates.

Influence of elevated temperature exposure on the residual compressive strength and radiation shielding efficiency of ordinary concrete incorporating granodiorite and ceramic powders

This research investigates the potential of utilizing types of construction waste as partial cement replacements within concrete formulations. Notably, granodiorite and ceramic powders were introduced at varying substitution ratios. The impact of these waste materials on the compressive strength and radiation shielding effectiveness of traditional concrete was evaluated under both ambient and elevated temperature conditions. Additionally, several microstructural tests like X-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) were conducted to assess the influence of using the optimal replacement ratios of the investigated waste powders on the studied properties of concrete. Results revealed a substantial improvement in the investigated properties of the concrete. Remarkably, a 7% substitution with waste granodiorite powder (WGDP) yielded the optimal mix for compressive strength, exhibiting increases of 24.7%, 26.1%, 22%, and 28% at room temperature, 400 °C, 600 °C, and 800 °C, respectively. Likewise, a 7% replacement with waste ceramic powder (WCP) exhibited quantifiable improvements in compressive strength, with approximately 23.1%, 23.5%, 25.6%, and 32.6% at room temperature, 400 °C, 600 °C, and 800 °C, respectively. For microstructure analysis, XRD analysis confirmed enhanced pozzolanic activity with reduced portlandite and increased calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) formation for the optimal WGDP and WCP mixes compared to the control mix. TGA analysis revealed higher CSH decomposition in modified mixes, indicating greater pozzolanic reaction. Furthermore, density and EDX analyses showed denser microstructures in waste powders-incorporated mixes due to finer particle packing and secondary hydration effect. The radiation shielding investigation show that the optimum WCP mix (C7) enhances the attenuation capability of concrete. The optimum WGP mix (GD7) also contributes positively to attenuation, though to a lesser extent than C7. Ordinary concrete (CO) exhibits the lowest LAC, indicating its baseline performance in linear attenuation. Thus, the studied CM-concrete samples provide the best protection against fast neutrons which pave the way for the utilization of industrial waste, especially ceramic and granodiorite waste, in enhancing the properties of concrete towards radiation shielding against gamma rays and neutrons.

Localized Chilling of Crowns Promotes Floral Bud Differentiation in Strawberry Transplants in a Closed Transplant Production System

Abstract A stable supply of transplants with floral buds is required to improve the initial yield of the June-bearing cultivars of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.). A closed transplant production system (CTPS) enables year-round production to meet the demands for the year-round production of strawberries in plant factories. In this study, we evaluated the performance of a novel method involving the localized chilling of strawberry crowns using silicone tubes containing circulated chilled water at different temperatures (10, 15, or 20°C) at the nighttime and different chilling regimes (daytime, nighttime, or entire day) under high air temperature conditions in a CTPS in terms of floral bud differentiation. We observed that 4 weeks of localized chilling at 10 or 15oC during the nighttime under the air temperature of 25/20°C (photo-/dark periods) and a photoperiod of 10 h promoted floral bud differentiation, whereas 6 weeks of localized chilling under the same conditions inhibited differentiation. Moreover, 4 weeks of localized chilling at 5oC during the daytime or entire day under the elevated air temperatures of 28/21°C and an extended photoperiod of 14 h promoted floral bud differentiation, and 6 weeks of localized chilling during the entire day under the same conditions further promoted bud differentiation compared with that in the control. Plant growth was generally unaffected by the localized chilling of the crowns. The results indicate that to cope with the impacts of elevated air temperature and photoperiod conditions, the continuous localized chilling of crowns at 5oC during the entire day for 6 weeks must be used to achieve optimal bud differentiation. These findings suggest the effectiveness of the localized chilling of the crowns for floral bud differentiation in strawberry in CTPSs, without disrupting the high-air temperature and long-day conditions required for vegetative growth.

Germination Dynamics of Crateva adansonii D.C. and Sarcocephalus latifolius (Smith) Buce: Key Forest Trees of Burkina Faso

Crateva adansonii D.C. (Capparaceae) and Sarcocephalus latifolius (Smith) Buce (Rubiaceae) are two African tree species widely known as multipurpose species for rural populations. Unfortunately, these species are threatened in their natural stands by inappropriate management practices. In addition, their germination capacities are poor in their natural stands Our hypothesis is that the seeds of both species are capable of germination under certain conditions of temperature, light and germination medium. This work aims to study the germination capacity of these species under different conditions. Germination tests were carried out in the laboratory and in the field. 400 seeds of C. adansonii were used in five treatments and 960 seeds of S. latifolius in six treatments. Blotting papers and soil were used as media. Seeds were germinated under different temperature and light conditions over a period of 30 days. A seed was germinated when part of the embryo appeared. The maximum germination rate was obtained after 28 days for C. adansonii and 22 days for S. latifolius. The results show that the best germination rates of C. adansonii (85%) and S. latifolius (82%) are obtained when the seeds are exposed to white light for 12 hours, alternating with 12 hours of darkness. For generative propagation of these plants, it is recommended to germinate the seeds under optimal conditions and then to plant them instead of sowing them in the field.

Analysis and Evaluation of a TCO2 Electrothermal Energy Storage System with Integration of CO2 Geological Storage

The goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions necessitates the increase in RES utilization. To accomplish this goal, energy storage solutions are required. This study investigates the performance of an electrothermal energy storage system, the CEEGS, which consists of an above-surface energy storage system and a below-surface geological system. The focus is set initially on the analysis of the above-surface system to gain insight into its operation. Then, steady-state optimization is utilized to identify the operating conditions that maximize the system performance, before investigating the below-surface system integration and the effect that the geological conditions have on system performance. For the above-surface system, efficiency (ηR-T) up to 46.89% is calculated. For systems integrated with CO2 geological storage, two case studies are examined, presenting higher ηR-T compared to the above-surface system (Case study 1: 50.37%, Case study 2: 67.39%). The optimal ηR-T for Case study 2 is achieved for higher injection/production pressures and temperatures conditions and minimal ΔP and ΔT between injection and production. In conclusion, it is the selection of the geological storage conditions that contribute the most to the optimal ηR-T; thus, the selection of the appropriate geological storage formation is imperative.

The Formation of Cavansite and Pentagonite in the Wagholi Quarries, Pune, India

Formation conditions of dimorphic minerals cavansite and pentagonite were previously based on theoretical assumptions. In doing so, the associations with other minerals, especially zeolites, that actually occur in nature, were disregarded or incorrectly taken into account. As a result, formation conditions were assumed that are not consistent with those for the associated minerals in the Deccan Volcanic Province. This relates in particular to overestimated high pressure and temperature values, as well as chronological processes of alteration. Long-term field studies and evaluations of numerous samples led to the conclusion that cavansite and pentagonite formed under temperature (approx. 120 °C to 200 °C) and pressure (0.01–0.03 GPa) conditions that are relevant for the associated low-temperature zeolites. Integration of geological and petrographic conditions, as well as crystallization sequences enabled the presentation of a multi-stage mineralization model. It is also explained that, contrary to the original assumption, characteristic pentagonite fivelings are not formed from five, but from six individuals.

Development of Maintenance Management System for Real-Time Monitoring of Power Transformer to Improve Availability Performance: The Case of Tagamenda TANESCO Grid Substation

Power transformers are critical assets in TANESCO's grid substations, playing a vital role in ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted power supply. However, the growing challenges of ageing infrastructure, increasing energy demand, and reactive maintenance practices often lead to unplanned outages, higher operational costs, and reduced transformer availability. This dissertation focuses on the Development of a Maintenance Management System for Real-Time Monitoring of Power Transformers at TANESCO grid substations, with the goal of improving availability performance. The study explores the design and implementation of a Real-Time Monitoring Management System (RTMMS), leveraging advanced sensors, data analytics, and predictive maintenance techniques. The RTMMS continuously monitors critical parameters such as temperature, oil levels, dissolved gases, and load conditions, providing real-time insights into transformer health. By integrating predictive analytics, the system identifies potential faults early, enabling timely interventions and reducing downtime. Additionally, it supports data-driven maintenance planning, enhances operational reliability, and extends transformer lifespan. The proposed system addresses challenges such as high initial costs, data management complexity, and resistance to technological change through phased deployment, secure cloud solutions, and comprehensive training programs. The expected benefits include improved transformer availability, cost efficiency, enhanced grid sustainability, and a shift from reactive to proactive maintenance practices. This research underscores the transformative potential of real-time monitoring systems in modernizing maintenance management and aligns TANESCO with global best practices in energy sector innovation and operational excellence.

Continuous Flow Alkylation of Morpholine and Aniline catalyzed by Mesoporous Al‐SBA‐15

A continuous flow alkylation process is disclosed to synthesize N‐methylated derivatives of aniline and morpholine, compounds vital to the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and polymer industries, using a mesoporous Al‐SBA‐15 catalyst. Conversions reached up to 99% with almost complete selectivity for monoalkylated products under optimized temperature, pressure, and flow conditions. Compared to traditional batch methods, the continuous flow system enabled precise control of reaction parameters, significantly enhancing efficiency, reducing solvent use, and minimizing by‐product formation. The results demonstrate the process's feasibility for industrial applications, emphasizing its potential for more sustainable, cost‐effective large‐scale production and the role of continuous flow systems in developing safer, scalable, and environmentally friendly chemical processes.

Phase Behavior Determines Morphology of Amylose Crystallized From Aqueous Solutions

ABSTRACTBackground and ObjectivesHere, we present a simplified system comprising amylose of varying degrees of polymerization in water, with the goal of probing the temperature–concentration phase diagram to determine if a miscibility gap leading to liquid−liquid phase separation might serve as a model for starch granule initiation and, if so, under what conditions.FindingsA miscibility gap in the cooling‐rate‐dependent phase behavior is demonstrated for the amylose−water system, with its temperature and concentration depending on the degree of polymerization (DP) of the starch. Liquid–liquid phase separation within this miscibility gap followed by crystallization of the polymer‐rich phase produced spherulites. If crystallization preceded liquid–liquid phase separation, a precipitate or gel was formed. The upper critical solution temperature appeared between 60°C and 70°C, and the miscibility gap was observed between 5% and 30%–50% w/w starch, depending on DP for DP ≥ 68. For DP 29, the miscibility gap occurred at concentrations ≥ 20% w/w.ConclusionsA cooling‐rate‐dependent miscibility gap in the temperature–concentration phase diagram has been observed in aqueous amylose solutions under reasonable ambient conditions of temperature and starch concentration, allowing phase separation to occur within plastids in vivo.Significance and NoveltyThis work provides a biophysical complement to the biochemistry associated with starch granule initiation.

Titanium Dioxide/Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite-Based Humidity Sensors with Improved Performance

Accurate relative humidity (RH) measurement is critical in many applications, from process control and material preservation to ensuring human comfort and well-being. This study presents high-performance humidity sensors based on titanium oxide nanoparticles/graphene oxide (TiO2/GO) composites, which demonstrate excellent sensing capabilities compared to pure GO-based sensors. The multilayer structure of the TiO2/GO composites enables the enhanced adsorption of water molecules and improved dynamic properties while providing dual-mode sensing capability through both resistive and capacitive measurements. Sensors with different TiO2/GO ratios were systematically investigated to optimize performance over different humidity ranges. The TiO2/GO sensor achieved remarkable sensitivity (8.66 × 104 Ω/%RH), a fast response time (0.61 s), and fast recovery (0.87 s) with minimal hysteresis (4.09%). In particular, the sensors demonstrated excellent mechanical stability, maintaining reliable performance under bending conditions, together with excellent cyclic stability and long-term durability. Temperature dependence studies showed consistent performance under controlled temperature conditions, with the potential for temperature-compensated measurements. These results highlight TiO2/GO nanocomposites as promising candidates for next-generation humidity sensing applications, offering enhanced sensitivity, mechanical flexibility, and operational stability. The dual-mode sensing capability combined with mechanical durability opens up new possibilities for flexible and wearable humidity-sensing devices.

Anion-Modulated Solvation Sheath and Electric Double Layer Enabling Lithium-Ion Storage From -60 to 80 °C.

Current lithium batteries experience significant performance degradation under extreme temperature conditions, both high and low. Traditional wide-temperature electrolyte designs typically addressed these challenges by manipulating the solvation sheath and selecting solvents with extreme melting/boiling points. However, these solvent-mediated solutions, while effective at one temperature extreme, invariably fail at the opposite end due to the inherent difficulties in maintaining solvent stability across wide temperatures. Herein, we report the use of the main lithium salt to simultaneously address interfacial challenges at both extremely high and low temperatures. This approach is different from the conventional solvent-mediated strategies. As a proof of concept, we utilized lithium nitrate (LiNO3) to establish an anion-controlled solvation structure and electric double layer. The formulated electrolytes exhibited remarkable performance across temperature extremes, retaining 56.1% capacity at -60 °C and sustaining 400 stable cycles at 80 °C. In contrast, electrolytes based on current solvent-mediated strategies failed to operate at -60 °C and could not exceed 50 cycles at 80 °C. By shifting the focus to the main salt rather than the solvent, our work offers the possibility of addressing the enduring challenges of electrolyte stability across a broad temperature range.

Diatom responses to rapid light and temperature fluctuations: adaptive strategies and natural variability

Diatoms are crucial in global primary productivity and carbon sequestration, contributing significantly to marine food webs and biogeochemical cycles. With the projected increase in sea surface temperatures, climate change poses significant threats to these essential organisms. This study investigates the photobiological responses of nine diatom species to rapid changes in light and temperature, aiming to understand their adaptability and resilience to climate-induced environmental fluctuations. Using a high-throughput phenoplate assay, we evaluated the maximum quantum yield of photosystem 2 (Fv/Fm), non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and additional photosynthetic parameters under varying temperature conditions. Our results revealed significant variability in the photophysiological responses among the species, with temperature emerging as a dominant abiotic factor relative to light, accounting for 13.2%–37.5% of the measured variability. Measurements of effect size of temperature and light on Fv/Fm showed that there is additional significant innate variability in the samples when a homogeneous culture is fractioned in 384 subpopulations. Furthermore, hierarchical clustering analysis of the effect size of temperature, light and innate variability on all measured photosynthetic parameters identified two distinct diatom groups. One group exhibited strong interaction between light intensity and temperature, suggesting active synergetic mechanisms to cope with fluctuating environments, while the other showed potential limitations in this regard. These findings highlight diatoms’ diverse strategies to optimize photosynthesis and manage light and thermal stress, providing insights into their potential responses to future climate scenarios. Furthermore, we demonstrate that using the method presented in this work we can functionally cluster different diatom species.