Green Technology Center

The effect of polyelectrolyte addition on the rheological behavior of cellulose nanofibril (CNF) suspensions was examined at a CNF consistency of 1.5%. Cationic and anionic polyelectrolytes with different molecular weights and structures were employed, and rheological behavior was evaluated using steady shear and strain-controlled measurements, with particular emphasis on viscosity hysteresis and yield stress as indicators of network deformation and recovery. At this consistency, steady-state viscosity exhibited little response to polyelectrolyte addition. In contrast, viscosity hysteresis and yield stress showed strong dependence on polyelectrolyte molecular weight and structure, reflecting differences in CNF network deformation and reformation behavior. High molecular weight polyelectrolytes restricted nanofibril mobility and altered network recovery after shear, whereas low molecular weight polyelectrolytes acted through electrostatic interactions. Branched cationic polyelectrolytes enhanced network strength, as evidenced by increased yield stress, while linear and anionic polyelectrolytes reduced network strength by limiting effective inter-fibrillar contacts. These results indicate that, at a CNF consistency of 1.5%, rheological responses are governed predominantly by network-scale interactions associated with polyelectrolyte molecular weight and architecture rather than by surface charge alone. These findings clarify the deformation and recovery behavior of CNF suspensions under conditions relevant to practical handling and processing.

Sleep disorders, including insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and poor sleep quality, have been linked to various health problems.Studies have extensively explored the association between sleep disorders and metabolic syndromes, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity, with growing evidence suggesting their potential role in cancer development.This review focuses on the relationship between sleep disorders and gastric cancer, emphasizing epidemiologic evidence and potential mechanisms.We reviewed the current literature to examine the classification, prevalence, and pathologic mechanisms of sleep disorders, focusing on their role in the development of cancer.We assessed the association between sleep disorders and gastric cancer through epidemiologic studies, clinical data, and experimental research findings.Sleep disorders, such as insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea, are associated with increased inflammation, disrupted circadian rhythms, and impaired immune function, which may contribute to carcinogenesis.Epidemiologic studies show mixed results, with some reporting significant associations between short or excessively long sleep duration and the risk of gastric cancer.Additionally, narcolepsy and the evening chronotype may increase the risk of gastric cancer whereas the morning chronotype may have a protective effect.Sleep disorders may serve as significant risk factors for cancer, including gastric cancer.Short sleep duration and poor sleep quality are potential risk factors, whereas the morning chronotype may be protective.Future studies are warranted to establish the causal relationship between sleep disorders and cancer and to develop effective management and prevention strategies for at-risk populations.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Prunella vulgaris (PV) extract in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). In this 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 80 men aged 40-75 years with moderate LUTS (International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS] ≥8 and ≤19) were randomized to receive PV extract (600 mg/day) or placebo. The primary outcome was the change in total IPSS from baseline to week 12. Secondary outcomes included changes in IPSS subscores, quality of life (QoL), uroflowmetry, and prostate volume. Safety was assessed by adverse events and laboratory parameters. A total of 75 participants completed the trial (PV group, n=39; placebo group, n=36). At week 12, the PV group showed a significantly greater reduction in total IPSS compared to placebo (-5.2±4.6 vs. -2.8±4.3; p=0.014). Significant improvements were also observed in voiding subscore (-3.3±3.7 vs. -1.6±3.2; p=0.020) and QoL (-1.2±1.4 vs. -0.7±1.3; p=0.044). There were no significant differences in maximum flow rate or prostate volume. The incidence of adverse events was low and similar between groups. PV extract improved LUTS and QoL in men with LUTS was well tolerated. These findings suggest its potential as a safe and effective phytotherapeutic option for managing male LUTS.

Crystalline SnS2 accommodates Na ions through intercalation-conversion-alloying (ICA) reactions, exhibiting a natural potential for high energy storage, while its layered structure facilitates rapid charging. However, these intrinsic advantages are not fully realized in practical battery applications. Herein, utilizing an innovative integration of machine-learning-based thermodynamics, artificial-neural-network-assisted molecular dynamics, and density functional theory, specific solvents are demonstrated to effectively tailor the reaction pathways. This strategy not only steers phase transition pathways but also significantly reduces the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), which is a common issue in recent battery research. These characteristics of solvents enable reversible ICA reactions and also aid the transformation of microsized SnS2 particles into 3D porous nanostructures with minimal SEI formation. The performance of our Na-SnS2 half-cells achieve 1100 mAh g-1 (97% of the theoretical capacity) at 0.5 C, placing them among the top performers for Na storage. By moving beyond the traditional view of electrolyte solvents as a simple medium for ion transport, this work highlights the critical impact of solvent selection on enabling reversible reactions and morphological transformation of SnS2 anodes with minimal SEI formation and setting benchmarks for anode performance in energy storage systems based on ICA reactions.

The escalating threats of climate change, compounded by seismicity along the ring of fire, pose significant challenges to the Pacific Island Countries (PICs), making them particularly susceptible to the impacts of natural hazards. This commentary explores the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and satellite technology in enhancing resilience, focusing on their application in early warning systems and response/recovery for these vulnerable regions. The integration of these digital technologies can revolutionize the way PICs predict, respond to, and recover from climate- and seismic-induced catastrophes, thereby strengthening their resilience. It also discusses the future prospects for AI and satellite technology in PICs and concludes by highlighting the importance of international cooperation to ensure that PICs can benefit from these technologies.

The accelerating climate crisis is driving a rapid increase in interest in climate technologies aimed at overcoming it. However, even if effective technologies emerge, their impact may be hindered without public acceptance. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the factors that influence the acceptance of new climate technologies. This exploratory study investigates the key factors influencing public acceptance and the recommendation of climate technologies in South Korea. Utilizing an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, survey data from 200 participants were analyzed. The study identified that facilitating conditions, innovativeness, social influence, and trust in government are the most significant predictors of public intent to accept or recommend climate technologies. The results highlight the critical role of strategic communication, infrastructure, and public trust in promoting the adoption of climate solutions. Furthermore, qualitative interviews suggest that a shift towards Personally Determined Contributions (PDCs) could empower individuals to become proactive agents in climate action. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers, providing a strategic direction to enhance the public’s engagement with climate technologies and foster a more sustainable future.