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Objective To analyze the incidence trend of cancer from 2015 to 2020 in Sichuan Province and provide a reference for prevention and control of cancer. Methods Based on the cancer-related case information data on the Homepage of medical records in Sichuan Province from 2015 to 2020, the crude incidence rate was calculated, and the average annual change percentage (AAPC) of incidence rates was analyzed with Joinpoint 4.2.0.1. Results The new cancer cases in Sichuan Province increased from 181 490 in 2015 to 276 770 in 2020, and the incidence rate increased from 198. 57/105 in 2015 to 304.76/105 in 2020. From 2015 to 2020, the average annual percentage change (AAPC) was 7.514%, 6.751%, 8.611%, 4.713%, and 6.838%, respectively. The incidence of cancer in the Chengdu Plain Economic Zone and the Northwest Sichuan Ecological Economic Zone showed a rising trend, AAPC values with statistical significancebeing 7.549% and 9. 668%, respectively. From 2015 to 2020, the incidence rate of lung cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer in Sichuan Province showeda rising trend, with AAPC values of 11.220% (95% CI; 5.866-16.845), 6.606% (95% CI: l.395-13.202), 6.322% (95% CI: 1.411-11.472), 5.765% (95% CI: l.431-10.284) and 13. 222% (95% CI : 7.396-19.364), respectively. Conclusion The incidence of cancer in Sichuan Province shows a rising trend, and the prevention and control situation is grim. Lung cancer, digestive system cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer are the dominant cancer types in Sichuan Province, and specific prevention, control and screening should be strengthened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methamphetamine (MA) is a widely abused illegal drug. As no medication is available for MA addiction, new treatment options are needed. This study examined the effects of aerobic exercise (AE) and attentional bias training (ABT), alone and in combination, on cognitive function and psychiatric symptoms in individuals with MA dependency. One hundred individuals with MA dependency were randomly divided into four groups of 25 persons each (AE + ABT, AE, ABT, and control group). The AE intervention was conducted five times per week for 8 weeks, while the ABT intervention was conducted once per week for 8 weeks. Multiple indicators of cognitive function and psychiatric symptoms revealed significant time-group interactions [F(1,87) = 2.580–4.143, p =.009–.049, η2 =.083–.170]. AE, but not ABT, benefited individuals with MA dependency. Combined AE and ABT was more effective than ABT alone, but not as effective as AE alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Optimal antithrombotic therapy following left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) with the Watchman occluder remains uncertain. This study retrospectively compared clinical outcomes of a 3‐month dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT group) and a protocol of anticoagulation plus aspirin for 45 days followed by DAPT for 6 months (ACT group) after LAAC with the Watchman device. Methods: Of two Watchman registries (Coburg and Lichtenfels hospitals, Germany), 220 and 304 consecutive patients with successful LAAC were included. Patients in Coburg hospital received DAPT while they received ACT in Lichtenfels. After a 1:1 propensity score matching, 174 (DAPT) versus 174 (ACT) patients were compared by use of the primary efficacy endpoint of thromboembolic events and cardiovascular/unexplained death, the primary safety endpoint of nonprocedural related major bleeding events at follow‐up, and the combined hazard endpoint, a composite of all above‐mentioned hazards. Results: The mean age 77.5 ± 7.2 (DAPT) versus 77.3 ± 7.1 (ACT) years, CHA2DS2‐VASc score 4.6 ± 1.5 versus 4.7 ± 1.6, and HAS‐BLED score 3.3 ± 0.8 versus 3.3 ± 0.8 were similar. After 12 months, the clinical efficacy (13/174, 7.4% [DAPT] vs 11/174, 6.3% [ACT]; hazard ratio [HR], 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.38‐1.86; P =.66) and safety (6/174, 3.4% vs 8/174, 4.5%; HR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.29‐2.56; P =.79) as well as the combined hazard endpoint (18/174, 10.3% vs 18/174, 10.3%; HR,1.01; 95% CI, 0.53‐1.95; P =.97) were comparable. Conclusions: This study suggests comparable efficacy and safety of 3‐month DAPT versus 6 weeks ACT plus aspirin following LAAC with the Watchman. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The LAmbre (LifeTech Scientific, Shenzhen, China) is a novel occluder for left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in patients with atrial fibrillation. This study compares late clinical outcomes of LAmbre and the established Amplatzer devices (Abbott, St Paul, MN). Methods: Between 2012 and 2018, 265 consecutive patients underwent LAAC with LAmbre and Amplatzer devices at a single center. After a 3:1 propensity score matching, 40 (LAmbre) vs 107 (Amplatzer) patients were compared by the primary efficacy endpoint of all‐cause stroke, systemic embolism and cardiovascular/unexplained death, the primary safety endpoint of major periprocedural complications and major bleeding events at follow‐up, and the combined hazard endpoint, a composite of all the above‐mentioned hazards. Results: The mean age 75.6 ± 8.9 (LAmbre) vs 75.5 ± 9.0 (Amplatzer) years, CHA2DS2‐VASc score 4.8 ± 1.7 vs 4.8 ± 1.7 and HAS‐BLED score 3.1 ± 0.9 vs 3.2 ± 0.8 were similar. After 3.6 ± 1.9 vs 2.5 ± 1.4 years, the clinical efficacy (12/146, 8.2% [LAmbre] vs 28/266, 10.5% [Amplatzer]; hazard ratio [HR], 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.38‐1.40; P =.34) and safety (5/146, 3.4% vs 14/266, 5.3%; HR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.14‐1.6; P =.22), as well as the combined hazard endpoint (15/146, 10.3% vs 36/266, 13.6%; HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.36‐1.25; P =.21) were comparable. Conclusion: In the presented report, in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, the LAmbre offered similar long‐term efficacy and safety in comparison to Amplatzer devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interconnected H 0.12 WO 3 ⋅H 2 O nanosheets with high electrochemical performances are fabricated on partial exfoliated graphite substrate (Ex-GF) by potential-limited pulse galvanostatic method (PLPG). The dead volume problem of bulk pesudocapacitive materials is addressed by the novel interconnected nanosheets structure, enabling a large specific capacitance of 5.95 F cm −2 (495.8 F g −1 ) at 2 mA cm −2 . Merited from the fluent electrolyte penetration channels established by the plenty voids among nanosheets, as well as fast electron transportation in the electronic conductive tungsten bronze which is directly grown from graphite substrate, the obtained WO 3 /Ex-GF demonstrates excellent rate capability. The material can maintain 60.0% of its capacitance when the discharge current density increases from 2 to 100 mA cm −2 . Moreover, WO 3 /Ex-GF doesn't show capacitance decay after 5000 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles, displaying its super stability. Furthermore, a high performance asymmetric supercapacitor assembled by using WO 3 /Ex-GF and electrochemical fabricated MnO 2 /Ex-GF as negative and positive electrodes, respectively displays a high energy density of 2.88 mWh cm −3  at the power density of 11.1 mW cm −3 , demonstrating its potential application for energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Oral administration is the most preferred and simplest route, but it is highly challenging due to the numerous barriers in the gastrointestinal tract. To overcome these barriers, nanocarriers have been developed to protect oral drugs. An increased understanding of viral infection has inspired researchers to mimic the viral structures and functions in the design of drug carriers. The virus-inspired nanoparticles (VINs) have been highly optimized based on the viral specific features to enhance the bioavailability of drugs. Herein, we have reviewed the development and design strategies of VINs, as well as a systematic summary for mechanisms and processes of oral absorption and the application of VINs, providing a new perspective on challenges to the clinical translation of oral nano-carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Excessive accumulation of oxalate in numerous vegetables adversely affects their quality as food. While it is known that nitrate could effectively stimulate oxalate accumulation in many vegetables, little information is available about the mechanism of nitrate-induced oxalate accumulation. In this study, we examined the association of oxalate synthesis with nitrate uptake and assimilation in two genotypes of spinach ( Spinacia oleracea L.), Heizhenzhu and Weilv. RESULTS Increasing nitrate levels resulted in enhanced synthesis of oxalate, as well as increased root uptake of nitrate and leaf activities of nitrate reductase ( NR) and glutamine synthetase ( GS) for both genotypes. Correlation analysis revealed that oxalate accumulation in spinach leaves was positively related with rate of nitrate uptake by roots, as well as leaf activities of NR and GS. Addition of plasmalemma H+- ATPase inhibitor sodium vanadate ( Na3VO4) significantly decreased leaf oxalate accumulation in both genotypes. Presence of NR or GS inhibitors led to reduction of leaf oxalate contents, GS/ NR activities and decreased nitrate uptake rate. Significantly higher levels of nitrate root uptake, leaf NR and GS activities were observed in the high-oxalate genotype Heizhenzhu than in Weilv. CONCLUSION Oxalate synthesis in leaves of spinach is not only positively associated with root uptake of nitrate, but also with its assimilation within the plants. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Recent reports have shown that miR-145 concentration correlates with infarct size. In this paper, we attempt to predict heart failure and cardiovascular death after acute myocardial infarction using circulating miR-145 concentration. Methods. We assessed 246 patients with first ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction who underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention. We measured circulating miR-145, N-terminal fragment of the precursor B-type natriuretic peptide, myocardial-band creatine kinase, and cardiac troponin-I concentrations on day 5 after primary percutaneous coronary intervention and assessed their correlations with long-term clinical outcome. Results. During the one-year follow-up period, 72 patients experienced primary composite cardiac events (cardiac death or hospitalization for worsening heart failure). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis indicated that circulating miR-145 (hazard ratio 7.174, 95% confidence interval 4.208-12.229); p < 0.0001) was a significant independent predictor of cardiac events after adjustment for multiple confounders. Conclusion. Circulating miR-145 may be a novel biomarker for predicting long-term outcome after acute myocardial infarction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Glucocorticoids are associated with a number of side effects including the development of new-onset hyperglycemia or diabetes. The diagnosis and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycemia are surprisingly undervalued by many health-care professionals, probably due to the lack of quality studies that assess specific reasons for and prevention of hyperglycemia. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the long-term incidence of glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycemia and diabetes in nondiabetic patients who received glucocorticoid treatment. Methods: We searched Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library (Central) until January 2014 for studies in which subjects received systematic glucocorticoid treatment and which evaluated whether subjects developed hyperglycemia or were diagnosed with diabetes following treatment. The primary outcome for this analysis was the incidence of hyperglycemia and the secondary outcome was the frequency of diabetes. Results: We identified 13 studies that met our inclusion criteria; 12 of the studies were retrospective or observational in design. We found that the rate at which patients developed glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycemia or diabetes was 32.3% (p = 0.003) and 18.6% (p = 0.002), respectively. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis indicated that glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycemia occurs fairly frequently and points to the need for the design of prospective, randomized, controlled studies to further investigate and better understand this medical problem. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three 3-D coordination polymers, [Cu(cca)(4,4′-bipy)]n (1), [Co3(pda)3(1,10′-phen)2]n (2), and [Co(pda)(1,10′-phen)]n (3), have been synthesized from 4-carboxycinnamic acid (cca), 1,4′-phenylenediacrylic acid (pda), 4,4′-bipyridine (4,4′-bipy), 1,10′-phenanthroline (1,10′-phen), and Cu and Co salts under different conditions. The X-ray crystal structures of these three complexes are presented. Complex 1 exhibits a threefold 3-D α-Po interpenetration network. Complex 2 with a 3-D framework with six-connected single α-Po framework constructed from Co3 unit has been synthesized and characterized. Complex 3 shows a 3-D framework with bcu topology composed of 1-D rod-shaped secondary building units. Furthermore, the photocatalytic properties of 2 were studied. When excited by UV light, 2 exhibits photocatalytic activity, in 300 min, about 71% Rhodamine B decomposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three 3-D coordination polymers, [Cu(cca)(4,4′-bipy)]n(1), [Co3(pda)3(1,10′-phen)2]n(2), and [Co(pda)(1,10′-phen)]n(3), have been synthesized from 4-carboxycinnamic acid (cca), 1,4′-phenylenediacrylic acid (pda), 4,4′-bipyridine (4,4′-bipy), 1,10′-phenanthroline (1,10′-phen), and Cu and Co salts under different conditions. The X-ray crystal structures of these three complexes are presented. Complex1exhibits a threefold 3-D α-Po interpenetration network. Complex2with a 3-D framework with six-connected single α-Po framework constructed from Co3unit has been synthesized and characterized. Complex3shows a 3-D framework with bcu topology composed of 1-D rod-shaped secondary building units. Furthermore, the photocatalytic properties of2were studied. When excited by UV light,2exhibits photocatalytic activity, in 300 min, about 71% Rhodamine B decomposes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

BACKGROUND Quality-associated problems, such as excessive in planta accumulation of oxalate, often arise in soillessly cultivated spinach ( Spinacia oleracea). Maintaining a higher level of ammonium (NH4+) compared to nitrate (NO3−) during the growth period can effectively decrease the oxalate content in hydroponically cultivated vegetables. However, long-term exposure to high concentrations of NH4+ induces toxicity in plants, and thus decreases the biomass production. Short-term application of NH4+ before harvesting in soilless cultivation may provide an alternative strategy to decrease oxalate accumulation in spinach, and minimise the yield reduction caused by NH4+ toxicity. RESULT The plants were pre-cultured in 8 mmol L−1 NO3− nutrient solution. Next, 6 days before harvest, the plants were transferred to a nutrient solution containing 4 mmol L−1 NO3− and 4 mmol L−1 NH4+. This new mix clearly reduced oxalate accumulation, increased levels of several antioxidant compounds, and enhanced antioxidant capacity in the edible parts of spinach plants, but it did not affect biomass production. However, when the 8 mmol L−1 NO3− was shifted to either nitrogen-free, 4 mmol L−1 NH4+ or 8 mmol L−1 NH4+ treatments, although some of the quality indexes were improved, yields were significantly reduced. CONCLUSIONS Short-term alteration of nitrogen supply prior to harvest significantly affects quality and biomass of spinach plants, and we strongly recommend to simultaneously use NO3− and NH4+ in hydroponic cultivation, which improves vegetable quality without decreasing biomass production. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An electrochemical synthesis method of reducing graphene oxide (GO) under constant potential is reported. Electrochemical technique offers control over reaction parameters such as the applied voltage, electrical current and reduction time; whereas the desired size and thickness of the film can be pre-determined by controlling the amount of precursor GO deposited on the electrode with defined shape and surface area. This synthesis technique produces high quality electrochemically reduced GO (ERGO) film with controllable size and thickness. Electrochemical symmetrical supercapacitors based on ERGO films achieved a specific capacitance of 128F/g with an energy density of 17.8Wh/kg operating within a potential window of 1.0V in 1.0M NaNO3. The supercapacitor was shown to be stable, retaining ca. 86% of the original specific capacitance after 3500 charge–discharge cycles. The results indicate that this simple synthesis technique for providing graphene-like materials has great potential in various applications such as energy storage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover, is a wing-dimorphic species, which causes globally important agricultural losses. In this present study, we compared the biochemical basis of wing polymorphism in A. gossypii with respect to trade-off of energy resources, including glycogen, trehalose, lipids (total lipid, triglyceride and phospholipid), free fatty acids, and soluble protein between dispersal and reproduction morphs during the wing-bud nymph and adulthood. Total lipid, triglyceride and free fatty acids were significantly higher in winged versus wingless morphs at 12 h of adulthood, the period during which alates are able to fly. By contrast, the wingless morph contained more glycogen than the winged morph from the 4th nymphal stage to adulthood. Trehalose content in the wingless morph was also higher than that in the winged morph during the 3rd and 4th nymphal stages, but vice versa at 12 h of adulthood. Finally, soluble protein content increased from nymphs to adults and was higher during adulthood in aptera versus alate. Whole-body water content in 12-h adults was significantly higher in apterae than that in alatae. These results indicate significant physiological differences between morphs related to specialization for flight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: One-dimensional growth of polyaniline (PANI) was conducted on carbon cloth through a pulse potentiostatic method. Hydrolysis of PANI was depressed, and the generated PANI film (PPM) displayed improved electroactivities. The specific capacitance of PPM was increased by 39% when compared to that of PANI film made by the conventional potentiostatic method (PM). The influences of the upper limit potential of the pulse potentiometry and the acidity of the polymerization solution on surface morphologies, electroactivities and conformation of the PANI films were studied by SEM, cyclic voltammetry, chronopotentiometry and UV–Vis spectrometry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Composite film of polyaniline (PANI) and tungsten oxide (WO3) was electrodeposited by cyclic voltammetric technique from a solution of aniline and tungstic acid. The obtained WO3/PANI film displayed a significant enhancement of electrocatalytic activity for iodate reduction and a better stability than that of pure WO3 and PANI films. Result of amperometric experiment revealed a good linear relationship with concentration of IO3 − from 20 to 500μM, with a high sensitivity of 0.54μA/μM and a detection limit of 2.7μM for the determination of iodate. This composite film was also successfully applied in determination of iodate in commercial table salt. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Humidity sensor based on polyaniline nanofibres was fabricated and its response to humidity was investigated. It was found that the sensor behaved differently compared to commonly known conducting polymer based sensors. The sensor responded to low relative humidity (<50% RH) normally by decreasing electrical resistance with increasing humidity. However, at higher RH the sensor reversed its responses by increasing the electrical resistance with humidity. It is believed that the unique structure of nanofibres, which is more susceptible to distortion during polymer swelling, is responsible for the ‘reversed behaviour’. IR data confirmed that excess water absorption occurred and that a change in polymer oxidation state might also have taken place. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Six coordination polymers have been synthesized and characterized based on dpa and isomeric bipyridine mixed ligands with various metal ions. Complex 1 exhibits a two-dimensional layer structure. Complex 2 is isomorphic to complex 1, with only small differences in bond lengths and bond angles. Complex 3 shows a one-dimensional chain structure composed of interesting pentanuclear Co building units. Complex 4 possesses a two-dimensional (4, 4) layer network, which crystallizes in a homochiral space group. During the synthesis process of complex 4, the dpa ligands decompose and form 2-bpa ligands, which connect with Ni atoms and produce the two-dimensional complex 5. Complex 6 exhibits a three-dimensional supramolecular structural feature constructed from discrete building units with π–π interactions. Furthermore, the magnetic properties of complex 2 are studied. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Aerobic exercise can simultaneously improve autonomic nervous function and executive function among individuals with methamphetamine use disorder. • The changes in cardiopulmonary fitness, HF HRV, and executive function were positively correlated. • HRV did not significantly mediate the relationship between aerobic exercise and executive function, but had a moderating effect. • HRV had a moderating effect that was eliminated after including covariates, particularly age. This study assessed the effects of aerobic exercise on cardiac autonomic nervous system function (based on heart rate variability [HRV]) and executive function among individuals with methamphetamine use disorder (MUD). We further examine the role of autonomic nervous system control in aerobic exercise (assessed via cardiopulmonary fitness) and executive function. A total of 330 individuals with MUD were randomly divided into exercise (n = 165) and control (n = 165) groups, who underwent eight-week aerobic exercise/health education program consisting of five 60 min sessions a week. The outcome measures included cardiopulmonary fitness, HRV time-domain and frequency-domain parameters, and executive function. Our statistical analyses comprised repeated-measures analyses of variance, correlation analyses, and mediation and moderation effect tests. The results indicated that aerobic exercise could simultaneously improve autonomic nervous system function and executive function among individuals with MUD. Moreover, the changes in cardiopulmonary fitness, high frequency HRV, and executive function were positively correlated. HRV did not significantly mediate the relationship between aerobic exercise and executive function; however, it did have a moderating effect, which was eliminated after adjusting for demographic and drug-use covariates. Among the covariates, age was the greatest confounder and was inversely proportional to cardiopulmonary function, HRV, and executive function. Cardiac autonomic nervous system function exerted a moderating, rather than a mediating, effect on the relationship between aerobic exercise and executive function. However, this potential effect was largely influenced by covariates, particularly age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, interactions between Cry1Ac, a toxic crystal protein produced by Bacillus thuringiensis (Berliner), and Beauveria bassiana on the mortality and survival of Ostrinia furnacalis was evaluated in the laboratory. The results showed that Cry1Ac is toxic to O. furnacalis. Not only were larval growth and development delayed, but pupation, pupal weight and adult emergency also decreased when larvae were fed on artificial diet containing purified Cry1Ac toxin. When third instars O. furnacalis were exposed to combination of B. bassiana (1.8×105, 1.8×106 or 1.8×107 conidiaml−1) and Cry1Ac, (0.2 or 0.8μgg−1), the effect on mortality was additive, however, the combinations of sublethal concentrations showed antagonism between Cry1Ac (3.2 or 13μgg−1) and B. bassiana (1.8×105 or 1.8×106 conidiaml−1). When neonates were reared on sublethal concentrations of Cry1AC until the third instar, and survivors exposed B. bassiana conidial suspension, such treatments showed additive effect on mortality of O. furnacalis except for the combination of Cry1Ac (0.2μgg−1) and B. bassiana (1.8×106 conidiaml−1) that showed antagonism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Chemical anchoring of silica nanoparticles onto polyaniline (PANI) chains was conducted through electro-co-polymerization of aniline and N-substituted aniline grafted on surfaces of silica nanoparticles. The grafting of N-substituted aniline on surfaces of silica nanoparticles were realized through hydrolysis of triethoxysilylmethyl N-substituted aniline (ND42) and the following condensation reaction with silanol groups on surfaces of SiO2. Organic–inorganic interactions between PANI and SiO2 involved in electro-co-polymerization process pushed the polymer chains apart and so facilitated the 1D growth of the polymer. Hence, the obtained hybrid film PANI/ND42–SiO2 displayed nano-fibrous morphologies (ca. 50nm in diameter). Consequently, PANI/ND42–SiO2 exhibited an average specific capacitance of 380Fg−1, ca. 40% higher than that of PANI/SiO2 (276Fg−1). The hybrid film also showed improved cyclic stability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hybrid films of polyaniline (PANI) and manganese oxide (MnO x ) were obtained through potentiodynamic deposition from solutions of aniline and MnSO4 at pH 5.6. The hybrid films demonstrated characteristic redox behaviors of PANI in acidic aqueous solution. Characterization of the hybrid films by XRD indicated the amorphous nature of MnO x in the films in which manganese existed in oxidation states of +2, +3 and +4, based on XPS measurement. Hybrid film of PANI and MnO x , PM120 obtained from the solution of 0.1M aniline and 120mM Mn2+ displayed a well opened nanofibrous structure which showed an 44% increase in specific capacitance from that of PANI (408Fg−1) to 588Fg−1, measured at 1.0mAcm−2 in 1M NaNO3 (pH 1). The hybrid film kept more than 90% of its capacitance after 1000 charging-discharging cycles, with a coulombic efficiency of 98%. The specific capacitance of a symmetric capacitor using PM120 as the electrodes is 112Fg−1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Electrocodepositions were conducted in solutions of aniline and MnSO4 through potential cycling to afford hybrid films of polyaniline (PANI) and manganese dioxide (PANI/MnO2). The films obtained displayed characteristic redox peaks of PANI on cyclic voltammograms in acidic aqueous solution. While in 1.0M NaNO3 at pH 1, the films showed pseudocapacitive behaviors from 0 to 0.65V vs. SCE. MnO2 was detected through XRD and XPS measurements on the films. The codeposition of PANI with MnO2 had dramatic effects on morphologies of the obtained hybrid films that displayed fibrous morphologies instead of granular one of PANI. Hybrid film PM50 obtained in the presence of 50mM Mn2+ displayed a specific capacitance of 532Fg−1 at 2.4mAcm−2 discharging current, 26% higher than that of similarly prepared PANI. It showed a coulombic efficiency (η) of 97.5% over 1200 cycles with 76% specific capacitance maintained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Measurements of the friction coefficient of oriented polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) have been made and the results indicate that the friction coefficient of drawn PTFE is dependent on the oriented direction. The worn surfaces were observed using an atomic force microscopy (AFM). The crystallinity of the transfer film was determined using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). Friction orientation was found to be an important character of PTFE tribology. The friction-induced orientation occurred on the worn surfaces and the transfer films with high crystallinity were formed on the counterparts, which was one of the causes for the relatively steady friction coefficient in the sliding process. However, the formation of the friction-induced orientation on the worn surfaces and the transfer film did not change the anisotropy of the friction coefficient for drawn PTFE under our experimental conditions. Although this result meant that the bulk-oriented structures of PTFE play an important role on its friction processes, the formation of better friction-induced orientation could result in the lower friction coefficient. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Microplitis mediator (Haliday) is an important endoparasitoid of the cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) in northern China. Interactions among H. armigera, its larval parasitoid M. mediator, and insect–resistant transgenic cotton lines were evaluated under laboratory conditions. Two major transgenic cotton cultivars used in Hebei province of northern China, DP99B (Bollgard), carrying the cry1Ac gene, and SGK321, carrying both cry1A and CpTI (Cowpea trypsin inhibitor) genes, were used in the experiments. The results indicated that there was significant growth inhibition of the H. armigera larvae when they were fed a diet containing Bt transgenic cotton powder. The parasitoid offspring developed more slowly and pupal and adult weight was reduced significantly when the parasitized host larvae fed on the Bt cotton powder leaf diet compared with non-Bt treatment. With an increase of Bt cotton leaf powder concentration in the host larvae diet, the parasitism rate and adult emergence of the parasitoid decreased and the abnormal pupal rate increased. There was no evident difference in the effects on M. mediator between the transgenic single- and two-gene cotton cultivars; however, the parasitized host larval mortality was higher than that of unparasitized larvae in most treatments. The observed effects on M. mediator were probably host-quality mediated rather than direct effects of transgenic cotton because the H. armigera larvae which fed on diet with leaf powder of both transgenic cotton cultivars also experienced a significant decrease in weight, particularly when the host larvae were parasitized. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the top three malignant tumors in terms of morbidity, and the limited efficacy of existing therapies urges the discovery of potential treatment strategies. Immunotherapy gradually becomes a promising cancer treatment method in recent decades; however, less than 10% of CRC patients could really benefit from immunotherapy. It is pressing to explore the potential combination therapy to improve the immunotherapy efficacy in CRC patients. It is reported that Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is deficiency in CRC and associated with immunity. Herein, we found that GW4064, a FXR agonist, could induce apoptosis, block cell cycle, and mediate immunogenic cell death (ICD) of CRC cells in vitro. Disappointingly, GW4064 could not suppress the growth of CRC tumors in vivo. Further studies revealed that GW4064 upregulated PD-L1 expression in CRC cells via activating FXR and MAPK signaling pathways. Gratifyingly, the combination of PD-L1 antibody with GW4064 exhibited excellent anti-tumor effects in CT26 xenograft models and increased CD8+ T cells infiltration, with 33% tumor bearing mice cured. This paper illustrates the potential mechanisms of GW4064 to upregulate PD-L1 expression in CRC cells and provides important data to support the combination therapy of PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockade with FXR agonist for CRC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A retraction of the article "Prospective randomized comparison between upgraded "2C3L" versus PVI approach for catheter ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation: PROMPT-AF trial design" in a 2021 issue is presented.

Manganese (Mn) oxides are promising cathode materials for rechargeable aqueous Zn‐ion batteries. However, the Mn dissolution in weakly acidic electrolytes always hinders the development of better aqueous Zn–Mn batteries. Herein, a hydroxylated manganese oxide cathode material (H‐MnO2) is fabricated using an electrochemical method for stable aqueous Zn–Mn batteries without relying on the Mn2+ electrolyte additives. The partial hydroxylation of the oxides leads to charge redistribution of the material, changing the reaction thermodynamics and kinetics. Theoretical simulation suggests that the hydroxylation of manganese oxide promotes both Zn2+ adsorption thermodynamics and diffusion kinetics on the surface of H‐MnO2 but weakens the interaction between H+ and the electrode. Therefore, Zn2+ ions can be more reactive with the hydroxylated manganese oxide than H+ ions. Experimental results show that the Zn2+ insertion mechanism dominates the charge storage process of H‐MnO2, and the H+‐induced Mn dissolution reaction is effectively alleviated. Importantly, H‐MnO2 exhibits good cycling stability with 95% capacity retention over 5000 cycles at the current density of 3.8 A g−1 in the ZnSO4 electrolyte, outperforming the state‐of‐the‐art aqueous Zn–Mn batteries, even those with Mn2+ electrolyte additives. The findings provide new insights for designing stable manganese oxide cathodes in aqueous Zn–Mn batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous zinc‐sulfur (Zn‐S) batteries show great potential for unlocking high energy and safety aqueous batteries. Yet, the sluggish kinetic and poor redox reversibility of the sulfur conversion reaction in aqueous solution challenge the development of Zn‐S batteries. Here, we fabricate a high‐performance Zn‐S battery using highly water‐soluble ZnI2 as an effective catalyst. In situ experimental characterizations and theoretical calculations reveal that the strong interaction between I− and the ZnS nanoparticles (discharge product) leads to the atomic rearrangement of ZnS, weakening the Zn‐S bonding, and thus facilitating the electrochemical oxidation reaction of ZnS to S. The aqueous Zn‐S battery exhibited a high energy density of 742 Wh kg(sulfur)−1 at the power density of 210.8 W kg(sulfur)−1 and good cycling stability over 550 cycles. Our findings provide new insights about the iodide catalytic effect for cathode conversion reaction in Zn‐S batteries, which is conducive to promoting the future development of high‐performance aqueous batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous zinc‐sulfur (Zn‐S) batteries show great potential for unlocking high energy and safety aqueous batteries. Yet, the sluggish kinetic and poor redox reversibility of the sulfur conversion reaction in aqueous solution challenge the development of Zn‐S batteries. Here, we fabricate a high‐performance Zn‐S battery using highly water‐soluble ZnI2 as an effective catalyst. In situ experimental characterizations and theoretical calculations reveal that the strong interaction between I− and the ZnS nanoparticles (discharge product) leads to the atomic rearrangement of ZnS, weakening the Zn‐S bonding, and thus facilitating the electrochemical oxidation reaction of ZnS to S. The aqueous Zn‐S battery exhibited a high energy density of 742 Wh kg(sulfur)−1 at the power density of 210.8 W kg(sulfur)−1 and good cycling stability over 550 cycles. Our findings provide new insights about the iodide catalytic effect for cathode conversion reaction in Zn‐S batteries, which is conducive to promoting the future development of high‐performance aqueous batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn metal anodes in aqueous batteries experience inhomogeneous deposition and corrosion issues. Herein, we introduced, at a low concentration, dioxane (DX) as an electrolyte additive to stabilize a Zn anode. The oxygen sites of DX endowed it with a strong affinity for Zn and Zn2+, resulting in its adsorption onto the Zn electrode surface and its coordination with Zn2+ locally. The Zn2+-DX species exhibited a decreased lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy level relative to those of water-involved components. The DX additive not only inhibited side reactions but also generated a stable solid–electrolyte interphase on the Zn electrode, ensuring a uniform Zn deposition. As a result of including the additive, the cycle life of the Zn symmetric cell was extended from 99 h to 2100 h, and the coulombic efficiency in Zn//Cu cell reached 99.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to be microRNA sponges and play essential roles in cancer development. This study aimed to evaluate whether circulating circRNAs could be used as diagnostic biomarkers for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).Methods: The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset was used to investigate differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) in paired LUAD tissues and adjacent nontumor tissues. The expression levels of the host genes were analyzed in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-LUAD dataset, and the prognostic value was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier plotter. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to validate the expression of candidate circRNAs in the LUAD plasma and cells. The CCK8 assay was used to measure the function of circRNAs in cell proliferation. Competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed to predict the possible mechanisms and functions of circRNAs in LUAD.Results: Two upregulated and two downregulated circRNAs were identified as candidate circRNAs using bioinformatics analysis. qRT-PCR demonstrated that hsa_circ_0005962 was upregulated in LUAD plasma and cells, whereas hsa_circ_0086414 was downregulated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis confirmed that a signature comprising the two circRNAs had good diagnostic potential, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.81 (P < 0.0001). In addition, we observed that overexpression of plasma hsa_circ_0086414 was related to EGFR mutations (P = 0.001). Plasma hsa_circ_0005962 displayed significantly different expression before and after surgery in patients with LUAD (P < 0.0001). In vitro experiments suggested that hsa_circ_0005962 promoted LUAD cell proliferation. For future studies, we predicted the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network for hsa_circ_0005962. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that hsa_circ_0005962 might be involved in LUAD development.Conclusion: A circRNA signature was identified as a potential noninvasive biomarker for LUAD diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous batteries with high safety and cost efficiency usually employ metallic cations as charge carriers. Recently, ammonium (NH4+) ion batteries using the nonmetal NH4+ as a charge carrier exhibit distinct electrochemical features from conventional aqueous batteries. Herein, the electrochemical performances of a bimetallic hydroxide material are systematically studied with different charge carriers in the electrolytes, including NH4+, as well as the conventional monovalent metallic cations K+ and Na+, respectively. Electrochemical results indicate that the charge storage process using NH4+ as the working ions exhibits a higher discharge plateau, smaller electrochemical polarization, and larger discharge capacity than that using conventional metallic charge carriers. Experimental characterizations and theoretical calculations suggest that the strong interaction between NH4+ and the electrode material, as well as the low NH4+‐ion diffusion barrier lead to these superior electrochemical features. The assembled NH4+‐ion battery exhibits a good energy density of 123 Wh kg(cathode+anode)−1 at the power density of 480 W kg(cathode+anode)−1. These fundamental findings are important for developing good safety, low‐cost, and high‐energy aqueous batteries with sustainable NH4+ charge carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • FC NWA substrate fabrication as a 3D conductive carbon scaffold. • Electrochemical growth of vanadium oxide nanowires on FC NWA substrate. • Enlarged charge storage window for the composite through vanadium valence tuning. • The assembled symmetric supercapacitor works with a high voltage of 2 V. Abstract Vanadium oxides have great potentials in high voltage symmetric supercapacitors, benefiting from the available multiple oxidation states of vanadium. In this work, charge storage in a wide potential window of −1.1 to 0.9 V vs. SCE is achieve for vanadium oxide through vanadium valence tuning and incorporation in functionalized carbon nanowire array. The functionalized carbon nanowire array provides a good three dimensional conductive scaffold for the oxide nanowires, leading to high electron and ion transportation for the pseudo-capacitive materials. A high areal capacitance of 1.31 F cm−2 is achieved for the obtained vanadium oxide electrode (at 1 mA cm−2 in 5 M LiCl aqueous solution). It also displays good rate capability, demonstrating a quite high areal capacitance of 687 mF cm−2 at 100 mA cm−2. The assembled symmetric supercapacitor can be operate with a large voltage of 2 V and so can deliver a high volumetric energy density of 3.61 mWh cm−3 at 0.01 W cm−3. The supercapacitor also shows good stability, it can retain 91% of its capacitance after 10 000 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendrite growth and side reactions of the Zn metal anode limit the cycle life of aqueous Zn batteries. Herein, we propose a sodium dichloroisocyanurate electrolyte additive with a low concentration of 0.1 M to modify the Zn interface environment and construct a stable organic–inorganic solid–electrolyte interface on the Zn electrode. It suppresses corrosion reactions and directs uniform Zn deposition. The cycle life of the Zn electrode in symmetric cells extends to 1100 h at 2 mA cm−2 and 2 mA h cm−2, and the Zn plating/stripping coulombic efficiency reaches 99.5% for more than 450 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rechargeable aqueous Zn‐VOx batteries are attracting attention in large scale energy storage applications. Yet, the sluggish Zn2+ diffusion kinetics and ambiguous structure–property relationship are always challenging to fulfil the great potential of the batteries. Here we electrodeposit vanadium oxide nanobelts (VO‐E) with highly disordered structure. The electrode achieves high capacities (e.g. ≈5 mAh cm−2, 516 mAh g−1), good rate and cycling performances. Detailed structure analysis indicates VO‐E is composed of integrated amorphous‐crystalline nanoscale domains, forming an efficient heterointerface network in the bulk electrode, which accounts for the good electrochemical properties. Theoretical calculations indicate that the amorphous‐crystalline heterostructure exhibits the favorable cation adsorption and lower ion diffusion energy barriers compared to the amorphous and crystalline counterparts, thus accelerating charge carrier mobility and electrochemical activity of the electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rechargeable aqueous Zn‐VOx batteries are attracting attention in large scale energy storage applications. Yet, the sluggish Zn2+ diffusion kinetics and ambiguous structure–property relationship are always challenging to fulfil the great potential of the batteries. Here we electrodeposit vanadium oxide nanobelts (VO‐E) with highly disordered structure. The electrode achieves high capacities (e.g. ≈5 mAh cm−2, 516 mAh g−1), good rate and cycling performances. Detailed structure analysis indicates VO‐E is composed of integrated amorphous‐crystalline nanoscale domains, forming an efficient heterointerface network in the bulk electrode, which accounts for the good electrochemical properties. Theoretical calculations indicate that the amorphous‐crystalline heterostructure exhibits the favorable cation adsorption and lower ion diffusion energy barriers compared to the amorphous and crystalline counterparts, thus accelerating charge carrier mobility and electrochemical activity of the electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The limited choice of anode materials always challenges the development of high performance aqueous ammonium-ion batteries (AAIBs). Herein, we fabricate amorphous molybdenum oxide (MoOx) materials and study the NH4+ storage performances. The results indicate that the optimized electrode exhibits high gravimetric/areal capacities of 175 mA h g−1/1.30 mA h cm−2, outperforming state-of-the-art anode materials for AAIBs. Our findings indicate that the valence state of Mo and the Mo–O–H content in MoOx synergistically control the NH4+ storage performances, offering new understanding for rational design of MoOx materials for energy storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of Cu(NO3)2·3H2O with 2,4′-oxybis(benzoic acid) and 4,4′-bipyridine under hydrothermal conditions produced a new mixed-ligand two-dimensional copper(II) coordination polymer, namely poly[[(μ-4,4′-bipyridine-κ2 N, N′)[μ-2,4′-oxybis(benzoato)-κ4 O2, O2′: O4, O4′]copper(II)] monohydrate], {[Cu(C14H8O5)(C10H8N2)]·H2O} n, which was characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The X-ray diffraction crystal structure analysis reveals that the CuII ions are connected to form a two-dimensional wave-like network through 4,4′-bipyridine and 2,4′-oxybis(benzoate) ligands. The two-dimensional layers are expanded into a three-dimensional supramolecular structure through intermolecular O-H...O and C-H...O hydrogen bonds. Furthermore, magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate that the complex shows weak antiferromagnetic interactions between adjacent CuII ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Perimitral atrial tachycardia (PMAT) is the most frequent type of iatrogenic atrial tachycardia (AT) after atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Vein of Marshall ethanol infusion (EIVOM) is a promising technique in mitral isthmus (MI) ablation. Methods: A total of 165 patients with PMAT were divided into three groups according to ablation strategies, including RF only group (n = 89), RF‐EIVOM group (initial RF ablation with adjunctive EIVOM, n = 28), and EIVOM‐RF group (first‐step EIVOM with touch‐up RF ablation, n = 48). Acute and follow‐up procedure outcomes were evaluated. Results: PMAT terminated in 89.9%, 89.3%, and 93.7% of patients in RF only, RF‐EIVOM and EIVOM‐RF groups, respectively (p =.715), with complete MI block achieved in 80.9%, 89.3%, and 95.8% of patients (EIVOM‐RF vs. RF only, p =.012). First‐step utilization of EIVOM was associated with a significant shortening of RF ablation time at MI (EIVOM‐RF 2.1 ± 1.3 min, RF only 7.9 ± 5.9 min, RF‐EIVOM 6.8 ± 5.8 min; p <.001) and a decrease in the proportion of patients need ablation within coronary sinus (CS, EIVOM‐RF 14.6%, RF only 61.8%, RF‐EIVOM 64.3%; p <.001). After a mean follow‐up of 12.1 ± 6.2 months, AF/AT recurred in 39 (43.8%), 6 (21.4%), and 12 (25.0%) patients in RF only, RF‐EIVOM, and EIVOM‐RF group (RF‐EIVOM vs. RF only, p =.026; EIVOM‐RF vs. RF only, p =.022). Conclusions: EIVOM was associated with an enhanced acute MI block rate as well as reduced AF/AT recurrence. First‐step utilization of EIVOM promises to significantly simplify the RF ablation process. PMAT is the most common type of iatrogenic AT after AF ablation procedures. EIVOM contributed to a higher acute MI block rate and lower arrhythmia recurrence risk during follow‐up. First‐step utilization of EIVOM significantly reduced the need for radiofrequency ablation at MI and inside CS with the advantage of creating a homogenous, transmural lesion and eliminating epicardial connections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two of hydrophobic functionalized ionic liquids (FILs) were synthesized according to the traditional method. The FILs are 1-(cyanomethyl)-3-methylimidazolium bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]imide ([MCNMIM][NTf 2 ]) and 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-3-methylimidazolium bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]imide ([EOHMIM][NTf 2 ]). Density, dynamic viscosity, and electrical conductivity of the two FILs were determined in the range of T = (283.15 to 353.15) K. The other important physico-chemical properties, like molecular volume, standard molar entropy, and lattice energy, of the two FILs were estimated by empirical equations on the bases of the experimental density. The Vogel–Fulcher–Tamman (VFT) and Arrhenius equations were used for fitting of the temperature dependence of the dynamic viscosity and electrical conductivity. The activation of electrical conductivity and dynamic viscosity were calculated by the final version VFT equation. The molar conductivities were determined from density and electrical conductivity by the empirical equation. According to Walden rule, the Walden equation was used for description of the density, dynamic viscosity, and electrical conductivity. The introduction of the functional group (cyano and hydroxy) on imidazolium ring can provided hydrogen bond formation. The FILs exhibited the higher density, dynamic viscosity and lower electrical conductivity than traditional non-functional ILs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonium (NH4+) ion as charge carrier is attracting attention in aqueous batteries. Yet, most NH4+ host materials are still limited by the relatively low capacities. Here, we fabricated a manganese phosphate (MP‐20) for NH4+ ion storage. MP‐20 displays a high capacity of 299.6 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 in ammonium acetate (NH4Ac) electrolyte, outperforming other reported NH4+ host materials. Spectroscopy studies suggest a new NH4+/H+ co‐insertion mechanism. We surprisingly discover that the NH4Ac electrolyte plays an important role in improving the charge storage capability of the materials. Experimental and computational results indicate acetate ions can form coordination bonds with the Mn atoms, tailoring the electronic structure of the Mn atoms and the surrounding O atoms, and therefore facilitating the NH4+ storage process. Our findings provide a new NH4+ host material and propose the important role of the electrolyte‐electrode coordination effect in aqueous ammonium batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonium (NH4+) ion as charge carrier is attracting attention in aqueous batteries. Yet, most NH4+ host materials are still limited by the relatively low capacities. Here, we fabricated a manganese phosphate (MP‐20) for NH4+ ion storage. MP‐20 displays a high capacity of 299.6 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 in ammonium acetate (NH4Ac) electrolyte, outperforming other reported NH4+ host materials. Spectroscopy studies suggest a new NH4+/H+ co‐insertion mechanism. We surprisingly discover that the NH4Ac electrolyte plays an important role in improving the charge storage capability of the materials. Experimental and computational results indicate acetate ions can form coordination bonds with the Mn atoms, tailoring the electronic structure of the Mn atoms and the surrounding O atoms, and therefore facilitating the NH4+ storage process. Our findings provide a new NH4+ host material and propose the important role of the electrolyte‐electrode coordination effect in aqueous ammonium batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are widely used as high‐performance cathode materials for aqueous alkaline zinc (Zn) batteries. Yet, the strongly alkaline electrolytes may lead to undesirable rechargeability of the alkaline devices and environmental issues. Herein, as a research prototype, CoNi LDH material is designed with abundant H vacancies using electrochemical methods (denoted as CoNi LDH(v)). As a Zn‐ion battery cathode, CoNi LDH(v) exhibits promising electrochemical performances in mild ZnSO4 electrolyte, such as a good specific capacity of 185 mAh g−1 at the current density of 1.2 A g−1, a high average discharge potential of 1.6 V versus Zn2+/Zn, and a large energy density of 296.2 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 1894 W kg−1, outperforming most of the cathode materials for aqueous Zn‐ion batteries. Experimental and computational results indicate that the introduced H vacancies in the double hydroxide matrix induce the improved electronic conductivity and cation adsorption thermodynamics, endowing the double hydroxides with good electrochemical activity for reversible cation insertion. Structural and spectroscopy studies identify that CoNi LDH(v) experiences reversible H+/Zn2+ co‐intercalation mechanism in an aqueous ZnSO4 electrolyte. As far as it is known, it is the first report on transition‐metal‐based double hydroxides used for mild aqueous Zn‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Partial exfoliation of graphene from graphite foil (GF) is achieved by a convenient one-step electrochemical exfoliation method to afford partially exfoliated graphene electrode (Ex-GF) with graphene sheets standing on GF matrix stably. Electropolymerization of pyrrole is carried out on Ex-GF with 1,5-naphthalene disulfonate (NDS) and 2-naphthalene sulfonate (NMS) as the ‘permanent’ doping anions to prepare Ex-GF/PPy-NDS and Ex-GF/PPy-NMS, respectively, in which the polymer is anchoring on the surfaces of graphene sheets. The PPy displays an opened structure due to the facilitated homogeneous nucleation on Ex-GF and so exhibits enhanced specific capacitance compared to the polymers deposited on pristine GF (to afford GF/PPy-NDS and GF/PPy-NMS). Specifically, Ex-GF/PPy-NDS film maintains 79% of its specific capacitance when the discharge current density increases from 1 to 20 A g−1. Moreover, discharge potential window of the polymer is enlarged to 1.3 V (from −0.8 to 0.5 V vs. SCE) due to the dual doping mode. Ex-GF/PPy-NDS film displays a high energy density of 82.4 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 650 W kg−1 and 65.1 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 13 kW kg−1. The cyclic charge/discharge stability of the polymer is also improved due to synergistic effect with partially exfoliated graphene. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Prepare a novel hierarchical structured cathode for aqueous zinc batteries. • The hierarchical cathode shows ultra-long cycle life. • Nanorod arrays on the hierarchical cathode regulate the local electric field. • Tip effect accumulates protons near the surface to inhibit the side reaction. Vanadium-based oxides are promising cathode candidates for aqueous zinc batteries, but their cycling stability is unsatisfactory. Herein, a unique hierarchical structured zinc vanadate material, with amorphous nanorod arrays standing on crystalline lamellar plates, is produced by the in-situ electrochemical conditioning from a H 0.39 V 2 O 5 precursor. The hierarchical cathode achieves a high capacity of 536 mAh/g at 0.1 A/g and 344 mAh/g at 5 A/g. Importantly, a long life of 10,000 cycles with 88% capacity retention is realized at 5 A/g. Finite-element analysis shows that the tip effect of the nanorod arrays accumulates protons near the surface of the hierarchical cathode. The resulting locally low-pH environment prevents vanadium dissolution and formation of inactive Zn 3 V 2 O 7 (OH) 2 ·nH 2 O during cycling, which ensures the high cycling stability. This work presents insights into local pH regulation to optimize the cycling stability of cathode materials in aqueous zinc batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mn2+ dissolution of MnO2 cathode materials causes rapid capacity decay in aqueous zinc batteries. We herein show that the dissolved Mn2+ can be deposited back to the cathode with the aid of a suitable conductive agent. The active material is thus retained for energy storage, and this MnO2/Mn2+ redox process also provides capacity. In the Mn2+ free ZnSO4 electrolyte, MnO2 delivers 325 mA h g−1 capacity at 0.1 A g−1, and 90.4% capacity retention is achieved after 3000 cycles at 5 A g−1. Our work demonstrates an effective strategy to realize stable cycling of MnO2 cathodes in aqueous zinc batteries without Mn2+ additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are a major global health problem, and novel and effective antimicrobial drugs are urgently required to combat this life-threatening pathogen. Prodigiosin (PG) is a bacterial secondary metabolite with excellent anticancer and antibacterial properties. However, little is known about the antibacterial function of PG against MRSA. Therefore, the antibacterial efficacy of PG alone and PG in combination with different metal ions against clinic isolates of MRSA and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) strain was evaluated in the present study. The minimum inhibitory concentration of PG against both MRSA and MSSA was 0.25 μg/mL. However, 0.1 μg/mL PG showed a stronger inhibitory effect on MSSA cell growth (47.12%) than on MRSA cell growth (35.87%). Surprisingly, we observed a significant difference (p < 0.01) in membrane integrity between PG-treated MRSA and MSSA using the propidium iodide staining assay. Further, we found that in combination with PG, Zn2+, Al3+, and Cu2+ showed synergistic antibacterial effects against MRSA and MSSA. Our results could increase the current knowledge regarding the efficacy of PG in inhibiting the growth of different types of S. aureus clinical isolates and also offer a novel strategy for developing efficient antibacterial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PANI materials usually contain a certain amount of insulating components, e.g., imine (＝N–) and amine (–NH–) groups, limiting the electrochemical redox of PANI. Herein, we proposed a simple protonation strategy to activate the redox couples of the PANI cathode for aqueous Zn batteries, during which the insulating ＝N– groups are partially converted to the conductive emeraldine salt (polarons –NH+–), endowing PANI more active sites and enhanced conductivity. The A-PANI electrode realizes efficient transitions of leucoemeraldine/emeraldine and emeraldine/pernigraniline, achieving a high discharge capacity of 183 mA h g−1, long life span, and good energy density of 178 W h kg−1 at the power density of 680 W kg−1. These values are significantly superior to those of the original PANI electrode, indicating the high efficiency of the proposed strategy. This simple protonation method could be applicable for many electrochemical devices, such as supercapacitors, sensors, and batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Composite films of tungsten oxide (WO3) and polyaniline (PANI) have been electrodeposited by cyclic voltammetry in a mixed solution of aniline and precursor of tungsten oxide. Surface morphology and chemical composition of WO3/PANI composite are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The influence of H2O2 on the electrodeposition of WO3/PANI composite film is also investigated. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronopotentiometry (CP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results show that WO3/PANI composite film exhibit good pseudocapacitive performance over a wide potential range of −0.5 to 0.7V vs. SCE with the specific capacitance of 168Fg−1 at current density of 1.28mAcm−2 and energy density of 33.6Whkg−1, which is 91% higher than that of similarly prepared PANI (17.6Whkg−1). An asymmetric model capacitor using WO3/PANI as negative and PANI as positive electrodes over voltage range of 1.2V displays a specific capacitance of 48.6Fg−1 and energy density of 9.72Whkg−1 at the power density of 53Wkg−1, which is two times higher than that of a symmetric capacitor modeled by using two PANI films as both positive and negative electrodes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]