Thermal stability analysis of nitrile additives in LiFSI for lithium-ion batteries: An accelerating rate calorimetry study.

Although lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are extensively used as secondary storage energy devices, they also pose a significant fire and explosion hazard. Subsequently, thermal stability studies for LiPF6- and LiFSI-type electrolytes have been conducted extensively. However, the thermal characteristics of these electrolytes with thermally stable additives in a full cell assembly have yet to be explored. This study presents a comprehensive accelerating rate calorimetry (ARC) study. First, 1.2-Ah cells were prepared using a control commercial LiPF6 electrolyte and LiFSI with a specific succinonitrile additive and ethyl-methyl carbonate as a thermally stable electrolyte additive. The kinetic parameters involved in heat generation and their effects on the thermal properties of the ARC module were analyzed from the heat-wait-seek (HWS), self-heating (SH), and thermal runaway (TR) stages. The results indicate that the addition of a succinonitrile additive to the LiFSI electrolyte lowers the decomposition temperatures of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) owing to polymerization with Li at the anode, while simultaneously increasing the activation energy of reaction temperatures at SEI between the separator and the electrolyte. The maximum thermal-runaway temperature decreased from 417 °C (ΔH = 5.26 kJ) (LiPF6) to 285 °C (ΔH = 2.068 kJ) (LiFSI + succinonitrile). This study provides key insights to the thermal characteristics of LiPF6 and LiFSI during the self-heating and thermal runaway stages and indicates a practical method for achieving thermally stable LIBs.

Exploring the Cathode Active Materials for Sulfide-Based All-Solid-State Lithium Batteries with High Energy Density.

All-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) are considered promising alternatives to current lithium-ion batteries that employ liquid electrolytes due to their high energy density and enhanced safety. Among various types of solid electrolytes, sulfide-based electrolytes are being actively studied, because they exhibit high ionic conductivity and high ductility, which enable good interfacial contacts in solid electrolytes without sintering at high temperatures. To improve the energy density of the sulfide-based ASSLBs, it is essential to increase the loading of active material in the composite cathode. In this study, the Ni-rich LiNix Coy Mn1-x-y O2 (NCM) materials are explored with different Ni content, particle size, and crystalline form to probe suitable cathode active materials for high-performance ASSLBs with high energy density. The results reveal that single-crystalline LiNi0.82 Co0.10 Mn0.08 O2 material with a small particle size exhibits the best cycling performance in the ASSLB assembled with a high mass loaded cathode (active mass loading: 26 mg cm-2 , areal capacity: 5.0 mAh cm-2 ) in terms of discharge capacity, capacity retention, and rate capability.

The Association Between Institutional Case Volume of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Mortality.

BACKGROUND: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a complex, high-risk procedure with significant morbidity and mortality. The positive impact of higher institutional case volume on survival has been reported in various high-risk procedures. The association between annual institutional HSCT case volume and mortality was analyzed using the National Health Insurance Service database. METHODS: Data on 16,213 HSCTs performed in 46 Korean centers between 2007 and 2018 were extracted. Centers were divided into low- or high-volume centers using an average of 25 annual cases as the cut-off. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) for 1-year mortality after allogeneic and autologous HSCT were estimated using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: For allogeneic HSCT, low-volume centers (≤25 cases/y) were associated with higher 1-year mortality (adjusted OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04-1.31, P = .008). However, low-volume centers did not show higher 1-year mortality (adjusted OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.89-1.19, P = .709) for autologous HSCT. Long-term mortality after HSCT was significantly worse in low-volume centers (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.17, 95% CI, 1.09-1.25, P < .001 and adjusted HR 1.09, 95% CI, 1.01-1.17, P = .024, allogeneic and autologous HSCT, respectively) compared with high-volume centers. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that higher institutional HSCT case volume seems to be associated with better short- and long-term survival.

Intermediate-Term Storage of Spotted Halibut (Verasper variegatus) Sperm: Effects of Storage Methods, Extenders Supplemented with Antibiotics and Antioxidants on Sperm Quality.

Intermediate-term preservation of sperm assists the reproductive management of fish spermatozoa; however, no information is available on sperm of the spotted halibut, Verasper variegatus. We aimed to identify the optimum diluents, temperatures, dilution ratios, antibiotics, and antioxidants for sperm motility and cell viability. The diluents evaluated were marine fish Ringer's solution (MFRS), Stein's solution, 300 mM sucrose, and 300 mM glucose (diluted 1:1 [sperm: diluent], 1:2, 1:4, and 1:10 and stored at 0, 2, 4, and 6 °C). Neomycin and gentamycin (100, 200, 400, and 800 mg/L) and antioxidants (Mito-TEMPO [0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 µM], reduced glutathione [0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mM], and trehalose [0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 mM]) were assessed in terms of sperm preservation. The most effective condition for cold storage of spotted halibut sperm was Stein's solution at a dilution ratio of 1:4 at 2 °C, with a combination of neomycin 800 mg/L and 250 mM trehalose that showed spermatozoa motility of > 43% after 60 days. These storage conditions will be valuable for spotted halibut hatcheries.

Cryopreservation of Roughscale Sole (Clidoderma asperrimum) Sperm: Effects of Cryoprotectant, Diluent, Dilution Ratio, and Thawing Temperature.

The roughscale sole, Clidoderma asperrimum is categorized as an endangered species. Sperm freezing is essential for preserving gametes. This study examined the CPA concentration, diluent, dilution ratio, and thawing temperature to design a sperm cryopreservation protocol for roughscale sole. The variables examined included sperm motility and kinematics, cell survival, fertilization, and DNA fragmentation. Sperm motility parameters were assessed via computer-assisted sperm analysis using a CEROS II instrument. Cell survival rate and DNA damage were assessed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 and single-cell gel electrophoresis assay, respectively. Sperm preservation was tested using several CPAs, including ethylene glycol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), glycerol, propylene glycol, and methanol. The diluents tested were 300 mM sucrose, 300 mM glucose, Stein's solution, Ringer's solution, and Hank's solution. The optimal conditions for sperm cryopreservation were 10% DMSO + Stein's solution. After thawing, sperm motility was highest with a 1:1 dilution ratio (sperm to CPA + diluent), at 69.20 ± 0.32%; thawing at 10 °C was optimal for post-thaw motility (72.03 ± 0.95%). The highest fertilization rate (40.00 ± 1.22%) was obtained using DMSO. The fresh sperm had the lowest tail DNA, followed by 10% DMSO + Stein's solution. The developed cryopreservation methods can be used in roughscale sole hatcheries.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Aclees taiwanensis Kôno, 1933 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae).

We sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of Aclees taiwanensis collected in Korea. The circular mitogenome of A. taiwanensis is 17,435 bp, longer than that of Aclees cribratus, and includes 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNAs, and a control region/D-loop. The AT ratio is 75.4%. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian inference phylogenetic trees showed that A. taiwanensis was clustered with A. cribratus with full-support values for both trees.

Complete mitochondrial genome of Ricania shantungensis Chou & Lu, 1977 (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae).

Ricania shantungensis Chou & Lu, 1977 (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae), is an invasive pest that attacks forest as well as agricultural trees. We sequenced the 15,358 bp long complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of this species; it consists of a typical set of genes (13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, and 22 tRNA genes) and one major non-coding AT-rich region. The orientation and gene order of the R. shantungensis mitogenome are identical to that of the ancestral type found in majority of the insects. Bayesian inference (BI) phylogeny placed the R. shantungensis examined in our study, together with Ricania spp. in a group with the highest nodal support, forming the family Ricaniidae to which R. shantungensis belongs.

Dead-End (dnd) Gene Cloning and Gonad-Specific Expression Pattern in Starry Flounder (Platichthys stellatus).

dnd is a germline-specific maternal RNA expressed in various vertebrate classes, which encodes an RNA-binding protein that is essential for PGC migration. The purpose of this study is fundamental research about starry flounder dnd gene for germ cell marker development. In this study, we cloned and analyzed the expression levels of Platichthys stellatus dead end (psdnd) in various tissues and embryonic stages. The psdnd gene was isolated from starry flounder ovaries, cloned into a pGEM-t vector, and sequenced. Full-length of psdnd cDNA was 1495 bp long, encoding 395 amino acids. psdnd expression levels were investigated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in various tissues and embryo developmental stages. psdnd transcripts were detected in the testes and ovaries, but not in somatic tissues. Embryonic psdnd expression levels were higher during early embryo development stages than during late embryogenesis; psdnd expression was highest at the 1 cell stage, then gradually decreased throughout the subsequent developmental stages. The spatial expression pattern was analyzed by whole-mount in situ hybridization (WISH). The psdnd transcripts migration pattern was similar with zebrafish (Danio rerio). Our results suggest that psdnd may function as a germ cell-specific marker.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Alphitobius diaperinus Panzer, 1797 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae).

Alphitobius diaperinus Panzer, 1797 is a major pest in poultry production and easily observed in poultry litter. We have determined mitochondrial genome of A. diaperinus collected in Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea. The circular mitogenome of A. diaperinus is 15,511 bp long which is longer than that of Z. atratus but shorter than that of T. obscurus. It includes 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNAs. The base composition was AT-biased (72.4%). Phylogenetic tree displays that tribe Alphitobiini is clustered with tribes Helopini and Diaperini with enough supportive values of three phylogenetic trees.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Ricania speculum (Walker, 1851) (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae): investigation of intraspecific variations on mitochondrial genome.

We have determined a mitochondrial genome of Ricania speculum (Walker, 1851) collected in Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea. The circular mitogenome of R. speculum is 15,530 bp long which is shorter than that of the previous mitogenome of R. speculum by 199 bp. It includes 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNAs. Intraspecific variation between two mitogenome of R. speculum was investigated: 171 SNPs and 18 INDELs were identified, presenting a high level of intraspecific variations on mitochondrial genome.

The second complete mitochondrial genome of Alphitobius diaperinus Panzer, 1797 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae): investigation of intraspecific variations on mitochondrial genome.

We have determined the second mitochondrial genome of Alphitobius diaperinus Panzer, 1797 collected in Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea. The circular mitogenome of A. diaperinus is 15,512 bp long which is slightly longer than that of the previous mitogenome of A. diaperinus. It includes 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNAs. The base composition was AT-biased (72.4%). Intraspecific variation between two mitogenome of A. diaperinus was investigated: one SNP and one INDEL were identified, presenting the low level of intraspecific variations on mitochondrial genome.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Paracolopha morrisoni (Baker, 1919) (Hemiptera: Aphididae).

We have determined the mitochondrial genome of Paracolopha morrisoni (Baker, 1919), a gall-forming aphid collected from Korea. The circular mitogenome of Paracolopha morrisoni is 16,330 bp long including 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNAs, and a single large non-coding region of 932 bp. The base composition was AT-biased (84.9%). Gene order of P. morrisoni is identical to all other aphid mitochondrial genomes. Phylogenetic trees show that P. morrisoni is sister to Eriosoma lanigerum both belonging to tribe. The mitochondrial genome of P. morrisoni will be useful in understanding the genetic backgrounds of the species.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Ceutorhynchus obstrictus (Marsham, 1802) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae).

Ceutorhynchus obstrictus (Marsham, 1802) is a serious pest of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) in Europe and the USA. We have determined a 20,124 bp mitogenome of C. obstrictus which includes 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNAs, and a single large non-coding region of 2,773 bp. The base composition was AT-biased (81.4%). Hypothetical ORFs are identified in the control region. Phylogenetic trees present that C. oibstricus is clustered with Alcides juglans (Alcidinae). It also shows polyphyletic manner for two tribes, requiring more mitogenomes to resolve it.

The complete mitochondrial genome of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda Smith, 1797 (Lepidoptera; Noctuidae), firstly collected in Korea.

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, is a serious pest in large numbers on more than 350 plant species in the world. We have determined a 15,388 bp mitogenome of S. frugiperda which includes 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNAs. The base composition was AT-biased (81.3%). Phylogenetic trees present that Korean S. frugiperda placed in basal position of S. frugiperda clade. S. frugiperda mitochondrial genome can be used for understanding recent active migration of S. frugiperda.

Comparison of titanium and biodegradable miniplates for fixation of mandibular fractures.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study was to compare the use of biodegradable miniplates and titanium miniplates for the fixation of mandibular fractures. PATIENTS AND METHODS: BioSorb FX biodegradable plates and screws and titanium miniplates were used in 91 patients (65 males and 26 females; age range 11 to 69 years) for the treatment of mandibular fractures. The clinical and radiographic findings were recorded at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: The overall complication rate was 4.41%. In the biodegradable plate group, infection occurred in 2 cases (4.26%) and was resolved by incision and drainage and antibiotics. In the titanium plate group, infection occurred in 1 case and plate fracture in 1 case (4.56%). The fractured plate was removed, and a new titanium miniplate was applied using a trocar. The infection was resolved with antibiotics. No adverse tissue reactions, malocclusions, or malunions occurred during the observation period. CONCLUSIONS: Our results have shown that the rate of morbidity is very low with the use of biodegradable plates and titanium plates, suggesting that biodegradable and titanium plates have the potential for successful use in the fixation of mandibular fractures.