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Seasonal changes in temperature and habitat migration both leave large imprints on the stable oxygen isotope composition (δ18O) of planktonic foraminiferal tests, but little is known about how much the depth habitat change affects the calcite δ18O on seasonal timescales, potentially introducing numerous errors to the study of seasonality applied individual foraminifera. In this study, two time series sediment trap moorings deployed in the northern South China Sea (SCS) from July 2012 to April 2013 and southern SCS (upwelling area) from April to October 2014 were used to infer seasonal calcification depth variations for four commonly used planktonic foraminiferal species, Globigerinoides ruber , Trilobatus sacculifer , without a sac-like final chamber, Pulleniatina obliquiloculata and Neogloboquadrina dutertrei by analyzing their test δ18O values. The findings demonstrate that planktonic foraminifera deposit their tests shallower in the winter and during cold water upwelling activity, and deeper in the summer, with a changing seasonal depth habitat for all species that tends to follow the isothermals. More importantly, we devised a new approach for quantifying the effect of seasonal calcification depth changes on the δ18O signature of planktonic foraminiferal tests. After applying this method to our trap site and nine other published global sediment trap sites, the results show that foraminiferal seasonal δ18O signal is strongly distorted (amplified or damped) by seasonal variations in their habitat depth, particularly for the species living in low latitude, attributed to the strong vertical temperature gradient relative to the seasonal temperature change at a given water depth. Surface water species that live in the homogeneous mixed layer may be able to provide the most comprehensive seasonality information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 pandemic may impact the prevalence and incidence of depression in college students. However, there is no longitudinal study focusing on major depressive disorder (MDD) before and during COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: A cohort study was carried out among 8079 Chinese college freshmen. The baseline survey was conducted in 2018 (T0) and annual follow-ups were in 2019 (T1, before COVID-19) and in 2020 (T2, during COVID-19). CIDI-3.0 was used to diagnose MDD. Random effects logistic models of panel data analysis were used for the risk of MDD incidence. STATA 15.1 was used for all analysis.Results: The weighted 12-month prevalence of MDD at T2 (2.10%) was significantly lower than that at T1 (2.67%) (p < 0.001). However, among students who reported exposure to the COVID-19 events, the annual prevalence of MDD at T2 was higher than that at T1 (4.21% vs. 2.79%, p < 0.001). The incidence from T0 to T1, incidence from T1 to T2, and the 2-year incidence was 2.23%, 1.34% and 3.75%, respectively. Only 8.93% of MDD students had chosen to seek professional help during the COVID-19 pandemic period.Limitations: The computer assisted CIDI may not be as sensitive and specific as the diagnosis made by a psychiatrist and may have caused report bias.Conclusions: Although the MDD incidence of college students was decreasing over time, the impact of the pandemic on student mental health may depend on exposure to COVID-19 events. Not seeking professional help in the Chinese college students is still an important issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microneedles (MNs) prepared from polymeric materials are painless and minimally invasive, safe and efficient, but they hindered by low mechanical strength and single diverse drug release pattern. Due to the distinctive mechanical strength and dimensions of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs), the integration of nano-technology with microneedles can effectively improve penetration and delivery efficiency through the stratum corneum. We herein designed a simple paroxetine (PAX)-loaded PLGA nanoparticles-integrated dissolving microneedles system (PAX-NPs-DMNs), aiming to improve the bioavailability of PAX through the synergistic permeation-enhancing effect of dissolving microneedles (DMNs) and NPs. PAX-NPs-DMNs had a complete tips molding rate (N eff) of (94.06 ± 2.16) %, a 15×15 quadrangular-conical microneedle array and an overall fracture force of 301.10 N, which were improved nearly 0.50 times compared with the blank microneedles (HA-DMNs) and PAX microneedles (PAX-DMNs). PAX-NPs-DMNs could extend the release duration of PAX from 1 h to 24 h and the cumulative permeability per unit area (Q n) was 47.66 times and 7.37 times higher than the PAX and the PAX-DMNs groups. PAX-NPs-DMNs could be rapidly dissolved within 10 min without hindering skin healing or causing adverse reactions. This study confirmed that PAX-NPs-DMNs can effectively improve the bioavailability of PAX and the mechanical strength of DMNs, which can easily penetrate the skin to provide sustained and painless delivery without causing adverse effects, thus offering a more convenient and effective method for central nervous diseases. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective of this study was to estimate the associations between specific BPD features on the risk of first onset MDD over 2 years and to investigate the roles of sex, baseline depression and anxiety in the associations.Methods: A longitudinal study of Chinese first-year university students aged between 15 and 24 years and who did not have a lifetime MDD (n = 7,627). Random effect logistic regression modeling was used to estimate the associations between specific BPD features, the number of BPD features, and the risk of MDD.Results: The feeling of emptiness (OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.57, 2.92), paranoid/ dissociation (OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.43, 2.82), affective instability (OR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.22, 2.39) conferred significant risk of MDD. Baseline depression and anxiety interacted with unstable relationship, identity disturbance and paranoid/disassociation in relation to the risk of MDD. A higher number of BPD features is associated with an increased risk of MDD.Limitations: Data collection relied on self-report. Thus, recall and reporting biases are possible. Due to the pandemic public health restrictions, we had to change the method of data collection at second annual assessment, which resulted in a lower response rate (66.5%).Conclusions: Mental health professionals should pay attention to the presence of BPD features in youth and young adults, as they are at high risk of developing a MDD in a short time period, and the risk increases with the number of BDP features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, samples were taken from different types of municipal waste incineration plants in the Pearl River Delta, China. Analyzing the distributive characters of elements and dioxin congeners in fly ash, the method of washing-ball milling was utilized to remove chloride and degrade dioxin in fly ash. The results showed that more than 90% of particles were in the range of 1 ∼ 50 μm and most of dioxin and metals existed in 0.030 ∼ 0.075 mm of particles. K, Na, Cl and Br in fly ash could be removed by washing efficiently, however dioxin and other metals remained in the solid phase. Washing and Fe/Ni-SiO 2 ball-milling method seemed to be the best choice as the dioxin removal rate could reach up to 93.20%. Dioxin could be degraded to low toxic compounds and heterochorides with Fe/Ni as dechlorinating agent. In the process, PCDFs were partly transformed to PCDDs, while too long time of ball-milling was not benefited for dioxin removing. In addition, the phases of calcium such as Ca(OH) 2 , CaCO 3 and CaSO 4 in fly ash could transform from crystal to amorphous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How to compute the lithium concentration in Li-ion battery electrode particles fast and accurately is crucial in the study of physics-based Li-ion battery models. When computing the lithium concentration in Li-ion battery electrode particles with a high fidelity model, whether it can be achieved depends on the algorithm used. In this work, an algorithm for computing the lithium concentration in Li-ion battery electrode particles with the lithium concentration-stress coupling model is developed. Theoretically, providing that the parameters of the lithium concentration-stress coupling model are given, the lithium concentration in Li-ion battery electrode particles under any load current of Li-ion batteries whose amplitude is no higher than the given limit can be computed fast and accurately with the algorithm. To verify this, the algorithm is used in the State of Charge (SOC) estimation of two types of Li-ion batteries under different load currents. By timing the estimating processes and comparing the estimated results with the measured results, it can be concluded that the algorithm is effective. • Modify the deriving process of the lithium concentration-stress coupling model. • Develop an algorithm for the lithium concentration-stress coupling model. • Develop a program as the embodiment of the theoretical part in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upper 250 meter-long sediment core of Site U1391 (1085 m water depth) retrieved from the Portuguese margin in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean was adopted for the benthic foraminiferal analyses to disclose the variations in Mediterranean Outflow Water (MOW) intensity over the last ~ 0.9 Ma. Benthic foraminifera are abundant at this site and mainly composed of the hyaline forms (80%, such as Cibicidoides/Cibicides spp., Globobulimina spp., Bulimina spp., Uvigerina spp., Melonis spp., Sphaeroidina bulloides , Hoeglundina elegans , Gyroidinoides spp., Lenticulina spp. and Planulina ariminensis ), while the agglutinated and porcelaneous forms have only 5% and 14.1% on average, respectively. Down-core variations of the benthic foraminifera show glacial-interglacial contrasts, especially those of Lenticulina spp. and Planulina ariminensis , which is also supported by the benthic foraminiferal cluster analysis. During the interglacial periods, the fauna are dominated by Sphaeroidina bulloides , Lenticulina spp., Planulina ariminensis , Dentalina spp., Cibicidoides robertsonianus and the agglutinated forms, while by Cibicidoides pachyderma , Praeglobobulimina ovata , Praeglobobulimina pupoides , Bulimina mexicana , Uvigerina mediterranea , Bolivinita quadrilatera and mililoids during the glacial periods. Benthic foraminiferal faunal data at Site U1391 was detailed analyzed to disclose the bottom water property over the last ~ 0.9 Ma. Variations of the character species or assemblages, such as Planulina ariminensis , and the “elevated epibenthos” group suggest that the MOW intensity has typical glacial-interglacial cycles, strengthening during the interglacial periods and weakening during the glacial periods, and reaches its peak at MIS 11. The strongest MOW intensity during MIS 11 confirms the climatic influence of waving sea level on the MOW current by its + 20 m high-stand above the present sea level. The agglutinated benthic foraminifera have a significantly positive correlation with the MOW index of “elevated epibenthos”, which suggests that their abundance can be used to monitor the hydrodynamic conditions of bottom water off the Portuguese margin. Consistent with the MOW intensity, the lower miliolids content implies a lower salinity which supported the stronger vertical density gradient during the interglacial periods in this region; while the glacial ocean has a higher salinity with a weak vertical density gradient/MOW intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrate and arsenic are common pollutants in groundwater. However, we are still lacking technologies that can remove nitrate and arsenic simultaneously using a single species of microorganism. In the present study, the potential of synchronous removal of nitrate and arsenite from water by a single anaerobic nitrate-reducing Fe(II) oxidizing Citrobacter freundii strain PXL1 was assessed. The strain PXL1 could grow well in arsenite concentration of 2.85–13.65 μM and efficiently oxidize Fe(II), reduce nitrate and remove As(III) from water. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed that the strain PXL1 produced poorly crystalline Fe(III) oxides. As(III) was removed mainly by adsorption and co-precipitation of the biogenic Fe(III) oxides. The anaerobic nitrate-dependent Fe(II) oxidizing bacteria including C. freundii PXL1 are promising microbes for in situ remediation of nitrate and arsenite contaminated groundwater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased number of CD4 + CD25 + Treg cells in tumor local and peripheral splenic tissues is related to the low immune function as well as to tumor recurrence and metastasis. Our pre-clinical studies showed that low-dose radiation (LDR) of the spleen in liver cancer patients significantly improves immune functions. However, the molecular mechanisms of such radiation remained ill defined. This study explores the role of CD4 + CD25 + Treg cells in radiation-induced immunomodulatory effects. Using the diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced rat liver tumor model and in vitro cell experiments, the percentage of CD4 + CD25 + Treg/CD4 + cells in the blood and the expressions of Foxp3 + , IL-10, TGF-β, and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4(CTLA-4) in spleen and liver tumors significantly decreased after LDR of the spleen in rats with liver cancer. The tumors became smaller than those in the non-radiated group, with both showing a parallel relation. Flow cytometry and MTT results revealed that LDR failed to inhibit CD4 + CD25 + Treg cell proliferation. Conversely, apoptosis was reduced and proliferation was stimulated. This process also changed CTLA-4 molecule expression on the surfaces of CD4 + CD25 + Treg cells and reduced their inhibitory function against CD4 + CD25 − T cell proliferation, and the suppression function of CD4 + CD25 + Treg cells was further weakened with the introduction of the CTLA-4 inhibitor. Findings demonstrate that the reduction of CTLA-4 expression on the CD4 + CD25 + Treg cell surface and the further inhibition of cell function may be considered as important regulators of LDR-induced immunomodulatory effects. This study provides experimental evidence to elucidate the immune enhancement induced by this process and presents a novel method for liver cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-resolution foraminiferal stable isotopes and benthic foraminiferal faunal records of IODP Site U1391 drilled off the western Iberian margin were adopted to reconstruct intermediate water variability of the subtropical Northeastern Atlantic during the late Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 13 and MIS 12. Five faunal turnovers were recognized based on multivariate statistical analyses of benthic foraminiferal census data from the size fraction >125 μm. The dominance of Uvigerina peregrina parva and Melonis barleeanum coincides with high benthic foraminiferal accumulation rates (BFAR), high benthic δ13C and the presence of dark-colour sediments during the final stage of MIS 13, also accompanied by frequent occurrences of Planulina ariminensis , an indicator of Mediterranean Outflow Water (MOW), which indicates MOW-related high oxic and mesotrophic to slightly eutrophic bottom water environments. MIS 12c and MIS 12b are characterized by Bulimina mexicana assemblage, together with low BFAR, high benthic δ13C and the presence of light-colour sediments, revealing mesotrophic and well‑oxygenated seafloor conditions associated with the possible advection of Glacial North Atlantic Intermediate Water (GNAIW) to the studied site. A prominent increase in organic matter supply and a slight decrease in dissolved oxygen concentration during MIS 12a were reflected by more abundant Bulimina aculeata , higher BFAR, lower benthic δ13C and the darker-colour sediments relative to MIS 12c-b. A shift in the dominant species and significantly decreased benthic δ13C, suggest an increased influence of southern-sourced waters (SSW) and a decreased influence of GNAIW during MIS 12a. During the early Termination V (TV), infaunal taxa mainly composed of B. aculeata , Bulimina exilis , Nonionella turgida , Brizalina sp. and Uvigerina proboscidea dominate the benthic foraminiferal population, which may be attributed to eutrophic and poorly‑oxygenated bottom water environment strongly influenced by SSW. During the late TV, N. turgida rapidly became the predominant taxa, and its predominance was probably the result of further reduction in dissolved oxygen concentration. • Intensified Mediterranean Outflow Water during the late MIS 13. • Strong influence of Glacial North Atlantic Intermediate Water from MIS 12c to 12b. • Increase influence of southern-sourced waters (SSW) during MIS 12a. • The Northeastern Atlantic intermediate water filled mostly by SSW during TV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rod-like manganese dioxide (MnO2)/acid-treated carbon nanotube (a-CNT) nanocomposites have been synthesized by a simple co-precipitation method. The MnO2 nanorod with the diameter of about 10nm and length of 50∼120nm is in-situ deposited on the surface of acid-treated CNT through the redox reaction of KMnO4 and Mn(CH3COO)2·4H2O. Results show that the electron transfer efficiency of the MnO2/a-CNT nanocomposites is greatly enhanced and results in a high electrical conductivity. The energy storage mechanism of as-prepared MnO2/a-CNT in mild aqueous electrolyte (ZnSO4 and MnSO4) is associated with the insertion/extraction of zinc ion into/from the tunnels of crystalline α-MnO2. The composites display both excellent storage properties with zinc ions (∼400 mAh·g−1 at 1 A·g−1) and reversibility at various current rates (∼100% coulombic efficiency after 500 charge/discharge cycles). The MnO2/a-CNT nanocomposites are rather promising cathode material for high performance rechargeable zinc ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] LV-shRNA targeting common promoter p97 effectively knocked down E6 and E7 expression. [•] LV-shRNA reduced the abilities of proliferation and invasiveness in vitro. [•] LV-shRNA dramatically inhibited tumorigenesis and growth in vivo. [•] LV-shRNA prolonged survival time in mouse models. [•] LV-shRNA targeting P97 provide a new antiviral therapeutics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: LiFePO4/C and V-doped LiFePO4/C with VO2(B) coating composite were prepared by an inorganic-based sol–gel method and the related properties were compared. The V-doping and VO2(B) coating was verified by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry. The formation mechanism of the VO2(B) coating was deduced. The XPS analysis suggested that the valence state of V was +4. The coupling effects of the V-doping and VO2(B) coating on the electric conductivity, lithium-ion diffusion velocity and discharge specific capacities at various C-rates were investigated. It is found that the V-doping and VO2(B) coating result in the increase of the bulk electric conductivity, the improvement of the kinetics and the enhancement of the rate capability. Moreover, the cyclic stability was not influenced significantly, even at 10C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Graphene decorated with manganese dioxide nanoparticles are prepared by electrostatic adsorption. The manganese dioxide is synthesized by a microemulsion route using the cationic surfactant hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, which dispersed in water is converted to be positively charged. The surface charge of graphene in water is negative, allowing two forms of manganese dioxide-decorated graphene to be synthesized by electrostatic adsorption: (a) free in situ synthesis and (b) layer-by-layer self-assembly. By electrochemical analysis, the specific capacitances of two materials are found to be about 40% and 250% larger than that of manganese dioxide. The improvement is because of the tighter contact between graphene and manganese dioxide, and the higher conductive and capacitive characteristics of graphene. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The high selectivity for the separation of nickel from cobalt-solution by a polyamine chelating resin was explored. As to the sole-component static system, the equilibrium data could be satisfactorily described by the Langmuir isotherm, from which the calculated maximum adsorption capacities for Ni(II) and Co(II) were 0.982mmol/g and 0.741mmol/g, respectively. Additionally, in the binary system with high concentration ratio of cobalt and nickel, the uptake amount of resin for both ions decreased, indicating their competitive adsorption behavior on active sites. Separation factors suggested the extremely higher selectivity for Ni(II) against Co(II). The obtained separation factor values indicated the extremely higher selectivity for Ni(II) versus Co(II). The column dynamic breakthrough curves revealed a potential success for the achievement of high-purity cobalt because of the higher initial adsorption rate and capacity toward Ni(II). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The co-existence of two mechanisms, the surface chemisorption mechanism (SCM) and the tunnel storage mechanism (TSM), for the charge storage of MnO2 is investigated. Sample α-MnO2 whose tunnels (2×2) are almost vacant is synthesized by chemical co-precipitation technique. To verify whether the charge storage of as-prepared α-MnO2 involves the charges based on the SCM besides the TSM, Ba2+ and K+ are intercalated into the tunnels of α-MnO2 by refluxing and samples Ba-MnO2 and K-MnO2 are obtained, respectively. By powder X-ray diffraction, ICP and the extraction test, it is confirmed that Ba2+ and K+ occupy the tunnels and are difficult to remove. By electrochemical analyses, we have found that the charge storage of Ba-MnO2 and K-MnO2 basically depends on the SCM, as Ba2+ and K+ stabilized in the tunnels in advance block the intercalation/deintercalation of cations from the electrolyte. Thus, it can be inferred that for α-MnO2 two mechanisms contribute to the charge storage. The contributions of α-MnO2''s mechanisms are estimated. The charges based on the TSM predominantly account for 81.2–89.9% of the total charges. The charges on the SCM may contribute to 7.9–16.8% and are not negligible. The charges from double-layer capacitance may be negligible, since it is only 1.1–4.1%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nanocrystalline LiFe1−x Sn x PO4 (0≤ x ≤0.07) samples are synthesized using SnCl4·5H2O as dopant via an inorganic-based sol–gel method. The dependency of the physicochemical and electrochemical properties on the doping amount of tin are systemically worked out and regular changes are revealed. In the whole concentration range, the chemical valence of Fe2+ is not basically changed whereas tin is found in two different oxidation states, namely +2 and +4. The replacement of Fe2+ by supervalent Sn4+ would lead to electron compensation. Under the synergetic effects between the charge compensation and the crystal distortion, the electrical conductivities for the bulk samples first increase and then decrease with the increasing amount of Sn doping. Upon the doping amount, the apparent lithium-ion diffusion coefficient and the electrochemical performance also display the similar trends. The doping is beneficial to refine the particle size and narrow down the size distribution, however optimizing the doping amount is necessary. Compared with other samples, the sample with a doping amount of about 3mol% delivers the highest capacities at all C-rates and exhibits the excellent rate capability due to the high electrical conductivity and the fast lithium-ion diffusion velocity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The activated carbons (ACs) prepared from mesophase pitch with KOH etching are used to fabricate electrodes for electric double layer capacitors. The ACs with pre-carbonization are also prepared. Nitrogen adsorption at 77K is used to characterize the surface area and porous structure of the ACs, which show a bimodal pore distribution. By adjusting the residence time at 800°C, the intersection of the ACs’ microcrystallites is changed and the peak value varies between 1.7nm and 2.1nm. Pre-carbonization promotes the growth of graphitic microcrystallites and hinders the crystallites from intersecting, and thus the surface area decreases and the size of the pore is more difficult to adjust. The performance of the ACs in the organic solvent (1M of Et4NBF4 in propylene carbonate) is investigated with voltage sweep cyclic voltammetry and constant-current charge–discharge cycling. The sample with the surface area of 2258 m2/g possesses a specific capacitance as high as 145 F/g. When power density is increased to 12kW/kg, its capacitance does not decrease, and energy density keeps at 31 Wh/kg. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Manganese dioxide has been synthesized by a self-reacting microemulsion method. The result of X-ray diffraction shows that lack of clear peaks and broadening of peaks indicate its amorphous nature. Typical cyclic voltammograms were measured in 0.5molL−1 Na2SO4 aqueous solution and the potential ranges were controlled from −0.5 to 0.5, from −0.65 to 0.65, and from −0.75 to 0.75V versus Hg/Hg2SO4 at a sweep rate of 2mVs−1. Rectangular and symmetric image was observed between −0.5 and 0.5V indicating high electrochemical reversibility in this potential and sweep rate. The influence of cation species and concentration (activity) on electrochemical performances of MnO2 is also discussed in this work. Cyclic voltammetric experiments have been performed between −0.5 and 0.5V versus Hg/Hg2SO4 in Li2SO4, Na2SO4 and K2SO4 aqueous solutions with different salt concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 1molL−1. The specific capacitance of MnO2 was found to depend strongly on the cation concentration and species, and specific capacitance value will increase with the increase of cation concentration for all electrolytes. The logarithmic dependence of capacitance of MnO2 on cation activity indicates that the charge storage for MnO2 is involved in a fast redox reaction through cation insertion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Different amounts of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are added to anode catalyst layer in the membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The MEA with 0.5wt.% carbon nanotubes (CNTs) shows the best performance in DMFC. In the protonic conductivity tests, a 0.5 wt.% amount of MWCNTs results in the highest protonic conductivity. SEM and TEM observations show that a continuous and uniform distribution of Nafion ionomer layer is formed on the MWCNT surface. Therefore, the dispersed MWCNTs in the catalyst layer are considered to be helpful for developing the pathways of protons transport. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Manganese dioxide has been synthesized by a new simple self-reacting microemulsion method. The synthesized MnO2 has been found to be amorphous structure containing a moderate amount of water by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Particles in a spherical shape with about 4nm in diameter have been observed by transmission electron microscopy. Cyclic voltammetic tests have been performed between −0.5 and 0.5V versus Hg/Hg2SO4 in 1molL−1 Na2SO4 solution at sweep rates up to 50mVs−1. A specific capacitance value as high as 246.2Fg−1 was obtained, which was much higher than 146.5Fg−1 of MnO2 prepared by chemical co-precipitation. After 600 cycles, only 6% decrease of specific capacitance was measured which indicated that such a material possesses good cycling property. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Electrochemical dechlorination of chloroform in neutral aqueous solution was investigated using palladium-loaded electrodes at ambient temperature. Palladium/foam-nickel (Pd/foam-Ni) and palladium/polymeric pyrrole film/foam-nickel (Pd/PPy/foam-Ni) composite electrodes which provided catalytic surface for reductive dechlorination of chloroform in aqueous solution were prepared using an electrodepositing method. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs showed that polymeric pyrrole film modified the electrode-surface characteristics and resulted in the uniform dispersion of needle-shaped palladium particles on foam-Ni supporting electrode. The experimental results of dechlorination indicated that the removal efficiency of chloroform and current efficiency in neutral aqueous solution on Pd/PPy/foam-Ni electrode could be up to 36.8% and 33.0% at dechlorination current of 0.1 mA and dechlorination time of 180 min, which is much higher than that of Pd/foam-Ni electrode. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Living planktonic foraminifera (PF) samples from the Okinawa Trough of the northwestern Pacific Ocean were taken for DNA analysis. The SSU rDNA sequences of two PF species, Globigerina sp. and Pulleniatina obliquiloculata collected at Station WP01, were obtained and compared with those from the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Only small differences (<0. 7%1. 2% for P. obliquiloculata, and 0.3% for Globigerina sp.) were found between samples from the north- and south-western Pacific Ocean areas and this molecular evidence supported that these micropaleontological species are the same species, which implies that the West Pacific Ocean circulation system influences the planktonic foraminiferal gene communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two benzo[de]isoquinoline 1,3-dione amino acids 1 and 2 were readily prepared, and their enantiodiscriminating ability were investigated by 1H NMR spectroscopy. It was found that 1 exhibited an excellent chiral recognition ability toward chiral α-phenylethylamine and some of its derivatives, leading to clear baseline separation of the multiplet of the probe groups in two enantiomers. The stoichiometric ratio and association constants of some host–guest complexes were determined. The interactions between the hosts and guest 3 were further studied by intermolecular NOE experiment and ESI-MS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A carbon aerogel (CA) loaded with platinum nanoparticles can achieve good catalytic performance in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Pt–Ru bimetallic nanoparticles were loaded onto a carbon aerogel through a simple process. The PtRu/CA achieved good cell performance when used as a direct methanol fuel cell anode catalyst. The advantages of carbon aerogel may be attributed to the mesopore structure that can facilitate the mass transportation in the electrode. The Ru content in the catalyst has a great influence on its performance. The PtRu/CA with 25at.% Ru achieves the best cell performance at 30°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The disappearance at ∼10 Ma of the deep dwelling planktonic foraminifer Globoquadrina dehiscens from the western Pacific including the South China Sea was about 3 Myr earlier than its final extinction elsewhere. Accompanying this event at ∼10 Ma was a series of faunal turnover characterized by increase in mixed layer, warm-water species and decrease to a minimum in deepwater species. Paleobiological and isotopic evidence indicates sea surface warming and a deepened local thermocline that we interpret as related to the development of an early western Pacific warm pool. The stepwise decline of G. dehiscens and other deep dwelling species from the NW and SW Pacific suggests more intensive warm water pileup than equatorial localities where surface bypass flow through the narrowing Indonesia seaway appears to remain efficient during the late Miocene. Planktonic δ 18O values from the South China Sea consistently lighter than the tropical western Pacific during the Miocene also suggest, similar to today, more variable hydrologic conditions along the periphery than in the core of the warm pool. Stronger hydrologic variability affected mainly by monsoons and increased thermal gradient along the western margin of the late Miocene warm pool may have contributed to the decline of deep dwelling planktonic species including the early extinction of G. dehiscens from the South China Sea region. The late Miocene warm pool became influential and paleobiologically detectable from ∼10 Ma, but the modern warm pool did not appear until about 4 Ma, in the middle Pliocene. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The interval estimation fusion method based on sensor interval estimates and their confidence degrees is developed. When sensor estimates are independent of each other, a combination rule to merge sensor estimates and their confidence degrees is proposed. Moreover, two optimization criteria: minimizing interval length with an allowable minimum confidence degree, or maximizing confidence degree with an allowable maximum interval length are suggested. In terms of the two criteria, an optimal interval estimation fusion can be obtained based on the combined intervals and their confidence degrees. Then we can extend the results on the combined interval outputs and their confidence degrees to obtain a conditional combination rule and the corresponding optimal fault-tolerant interval estimation fusion in terms of the two criteria. It is easy to see that Marzullo''s fault-tolerant interval estimation fusion [Marzullo, (1990). Tolerating failures of continuous-valued sensors. ACM Transactions on Computer System, 8(4), 284–304] is a special case of our method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Late middle Miocene to Pleistocene planktonic foraminifera (PF) in fairly continuous hemipelagic sediments recovered at Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Site 1143 from the southern South China Sea (SCS) were studied with sampling intervals of 10 to 150 cm. A total of 16 PF events are revised for the 516-m long section, providing an age model for the last 12 Ma at this site. On the basis of benthic foraminiferal δ18O stratigraphy and the smoothed planktonic age model, new ages are assigned to three PF events (last occurrence [LO] Globorotalia multicamerata sensu lato [s.l.] at 2.18 Ma, first occurrence [FO] Sphaeroidinella dehiscens sensu stricto [s.s.] at 3.6 Ma, and FO Globigerinoides conglobatus at 6.6 Ma) in the South China Sea. Distinct PF faunal transition from Globorotalia siakensis–G. mayeri group to mixed-layer species occurred during the early late Miocene (∼9.6 Ma). The transition reflects a deepened upper water thermocline, possibly corresponding to the closure of the Indonesian seaway and intensification of equatorial Pacific warm currents. Abundance variations of Neogloboquadrina spp. indicate a marked shoaling of the thermocline in the northern South China Sea after 3–2.5 Ma affected possibly by a strengthened Asian winter monsoon, while a deeper thermocline existed in the southern South China Sea since the late Miocene, characterizing the west Pacific “warm pool” (WPWP). A deepening thermocline influenced by consistently warm surface water since the late Miocene in the southern South China Sea is also evidenced by a two-stepwise increase of Pulleniatina group, by a gradually decreasing Sphaeroidinella–Sphaeroidinellopsis spp. and abundant Globorotalia menardii and related species. The FO Globigerinoides ruber (pink) at approximately 1 Ma and an abrupt increase in the pink-to-all ratio of G. ruber at 0.4 Ma at Site 1143 provide two additional PF events for deciphering Pleistocene biostratigraphy and paleoceanography. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Reconstruction of the Mediterranean Outflow Water (MOW) dynamics in the geologic past contributes to exploring its influence on the North Atlantic Ocean circulation and global climate. The middle Pleistocene transition (MPT) is one of the most important characteristics of Quaternary climate change, but until now, research on the MOW variability during this time interval has been limited. To decipher the MOW variability over the last 1.3 myr, this work presents the first continuous and high-resolution (∼2 kyr) foraminiferal stable oxygen and carbon isotopes and benthic foraminiferal records from Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Site U1391, which was drilled off the Portuguese margin in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean and is currently bathed by the lower MOW core. Based on spectral analysis results of the foraminiferal δ18O record, the MPT peaked from 0.9 to 0.7 Ma. The 'epibenthos group' was previously found attached to elevated substrates only within the MOW current and more abundant at higher current velocities, so the relative abundance of the 'elevated epibenthos group' was adopted as an indicator of MOW strength in this study. The MOW indicator suggests that the MOW strengthened during MIS 1, MIS 5, MIS 7, MIS 9, MIS 11, MIS 13, MIS 15, MIS 17, early MIS 18 to late MIS 19, MIS 21, MISs 23–25, MISs 28–30, early MIS 34 to MIS 35, early MIS 36 to late MIS 37 and MIS 40 with a ∼100 kyr cycle. Superimposed on the long-term variability of the MOW current, the ∼41-kyr and ∼20-kyr cyclic fluctuations are also evident, whereby the ∼41-kyr cycle is more significant. The results of cross-spectral analyses indicate that the ∼20-kyr cyclic variation in the MOW intensity was drived by the precession forcing; the ∼41-kyr cyclic variation in the pre- MPT MOW dynamics and the ∼100-kyr cyclic variation in the post-MPT MOW dynamics were strongly controlled by the Earth's obliquity. The variation in the abundance of the elevated epibenthos group was dominated by the ∼41-kyr cycle prior to the MPT and by the ∼100-kyr cycle after the MPT, which suggested there was a MPT-related shift in the MOW dynamics. Benthic δ13C record of the last 0.56 myr shows precessional (23-kyr) and glacial-interglacial (∼100 kyr) cycles, indicating cyclic variations in bottom water ventilation. Enhanced ventilation coincides with precession maxima and reduced ventilation with precession minima. Bottom water was well ventilated by MOW during the interglacial periods and by GNAIW during the glacial periods, and pooly ventilated during the glaical terminations. • Precession dominated the ∼20-kyr cyclic variability of the Mediterranean Outflow Water (MOW) current. • The Earth's obliquity controlled the pre- and post-MPT (middle Pleistocene transition) MOW dynamics. • Precession controlled the MOW dynamics of the MPT period. • There was a MPT-related shift in the MOW variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is presently occupied with research into the vibration characteristics of wind turbines and towers. To this end, a type of fusion tip structure blade is proposed, which possesses the ability to modify the shape and angle of the tip folding. Moreover, this blade is characterized by its straightforward construction and low cost to produce. A combination of experimental modal and dynamic vibration characterization tests is used to explore the effects of the fused tip structure on the vibration characteristics of wind turbines and towers in an all-around way. The test results show that the fusion tip structure can make the wind turbine second-order to fifth-order intrinsic frequency, damping ratio increase, as well as avoid torsion; in the natural working condition, it can make the wind turbine's disk effect, first-order vibration acceleration amplitude reduction of 4.60 % ∼ 49.63 %, 19.61 % ∼ 68.57 %, and first-order axial, radial vibration acceleration amplitude reduction of the tower of 12 % ∼ 62.50 %, 16.67 % ∼ 55.36 %, improving the vibration frequency curves of wind turbine and tower; As the blade tip folding angle increases, its vibration damping effect is optimal, and finally a law relating aerodynamic loads to centrifugal force loads of wind turbines is also derived. • Proposing a novel fused leaf tip structure. • Combined static and dynamic vibration analysis methods for wind turbines. • Joint analysis of wind turbine wind turbine and tower. • Intuitive multi-group comparative trials to ensure the reliability of study results. • Improving the structural stability of wind turbines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dechlorane Plus (DP) is a widely used chlorinated flame retardant, which has been extensively detected in the environment. Although DP content in the surface water is low, it can pose a continuous exposure risk to aquatic organisms due to its strong bioaccumulation. Considering that the related studies on the toxicity mechanism of DP exposure are limited, the effect of DP on carp embryo development was evaluated. In the present work, carp embryos were exposed to different concentrations (0, 30, 60, and 120 μg/L) of DP at 3 h post-fertilization (hpf). The expression levels of neural and skeletal development-associated genes, such as sox2, sox19a, Mef2c and BMP4 , were detected with quantitative PCR, and the changes in different developmental toxicity endpoints were observed. Our results demonstrated that the expression levels of sox2, sox19a, Mef2c and BMP4 were significantly altered and several developmental abnormalities were found in DP-exposed carp embryos, such as DNA damage, increased mortality rate, delayed hatching time, reduced hatching rate, decreased body length, and increased morphological deformities. In addition, the activities of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde were remarkably higher in 60 and 120 μg/L DP exposure groups than in control group. These results suggest that DP can exhibit a unique modes of action, which lead to aberration occurrence in the early development stage of common carps, which may be related to some gene damage and oxidative stress. Besides, the parameters evaluated here can be used as tools to access the environmental risk for biota and humans exposed to DP. Image 1 • DP has embryotoxic effects on common carp. • DP could delay embryo development and even cause embryo death. • DP exposure could induce DNA damage and oxidative stress. • ROS and MDA may play an important role in DP-induced developmental deformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The effect of Co amount on the sodium storage properties of Sn 1- x Co x (x = 0.2–0.5) alloys is systematically investigated. The trade-off between the cycle stability and the reversible capacity is identified. It is found that the reduced capacity with increased amount of Co is not only due to its inactive nature towards reaction with Na, but also because of its poor Na+ diffusion rate, which hinders the accessibility of "Sn" in Sn 1- x Co x (x = 0.2–0.5) alloys. The optimal sample, Sn 0.7 Co 0.3 , delivers a reasonably high reversible capacity and shows a good cycle stability (i.e. , delivers ∼200 mAh/g over 80 cycles and ∼300 mAh/g over 60 cycles at room temperature and 40 °C, respectively). Highlights • Sn 1- x Co x (x = 0.2–0.5) alloys have been synthesized via HEMM. • Effect of Co amount on the sodium storage properties of Sn 1- x Co x was investigated. • Co matrix helps to stabilize the cycle stability of Sn 1- x Co x in Na cell. • High testing temperature (40 °C) improves the sodiation/de-sodiation kinetics of Sn 1- x Co x. • Sn 0.7 Co 0.3 delivers a stable capacity as well as high volumetric capacity in Na cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract NaCl dispersant is developed to obtain submicron Sn 4 P 3 (∼500 nm) via high energy mechanical milling. The effect of particle size on the sodium storage performance of Sn 4 P 3 is evaluated based on micron-sized Sn 4 P 3 (∼1.4 μm) and submicron Sn 4 P 3 (∼500 nm). It is found that reducing particle size, in general, can help to stabilize the cycle stability of Sn 4 P 3 due to the suppressed Sn agglomeration and/or the minimized possible particle pulverization. On the other hand, large surface area exacerbates the electrolyte decomposition. The long cycle life of submicron Sn 4 P 3 can be achieved via refilling electrolyte during operation (submicron Sn 4 P 3 delivers a high reversible capacity of ∼450mAh/g after 100 cycles at 100 mA/g in 1.5–0.01 V with refilling electrolyte at 50th cycle). Highlights • Submicron Sn 4 P 3 (∼500 nm) is prepared via high-energy mechanical milling. • NaCl milling dispersant helps to avoid the aggregation of submicron Sn 4 P 3. • Particle size effect on the electrochemical performance of Sn 4 P 3 is investigated. • Submicron Sn 4 P 3 shows much better cycle stability than that of micron Sn 4 P 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn metal anodes that are compatible with aqueous electrolytes open the door to developing safe and cost-effective rechargeable Zinc based batteries (RZBs). However, the Commercialization of RZBs requires efforts from multiple dimensions. In this study, the temperature dependence of the Zn metal anode's lifespan is in reverse with the Li metal anode counterpart. key factors that affect the temperature sensibility of the metal anode were summarized. Based on that, we demonstrate that adjusting the electrolyte composition can customize the nominal operation temperature and balance the battery performance. [Display omitted] The operating temperature of batteries is an essential consideration in actual applications. Understanding the temperature dependence is conducive to battery design. The experience in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) indicates that the dendrite issue is exacerbated at lower temperatures and suppressed at higher temperatures. In this study, we revealed the dendrite evolution in aqueous rechargeable zinc-based batteries (RZBs), for which the opposite temperature dependence was observed. Detailed investigations elucidate that the degree of matching of the interface reaction rate and ion diffusivity, together with side reactions, are the key factors that determine the cycling performance. The different properties of organic and aqueous electrolytes result in a reversed temperature dependence. We further conducted a detailed investigation of hybrid electrolytes (organic and aqueous) for balancing the ion diffusivity and side reactions to broaden the working temperature window for RZBs. This work reveals a completely opposite temperature dependence for LIBs and RZBs and discloses the underlying mechanism, reminding one of the differences between LIBs and RZBs in many aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel optimization method for star sensor data processing has been proposed in this paper, by which the stability and accuracy of star sensor attitude outputs have been improved. Aiming at the problem that the star sensor has unacceptable single measurement error, which reduces the accuracy of navigation and dissatisfies the requirement of high accuracy in navigation system. Utilizing improved transformation, extraction, interpolation and filtering, then using wavelet analysis integrated with Allan variance, the star-sensor measurement data is processed to solve the problems mentioned above. By adopting this method, the star-sensor can achieve: (1) eliminate outliers accurately, to enhance the ability of error redundancy; (2) smooth and eliminate low frequency trends, to enhance the ability of interference resistance; (3) uniform data with equal interval and make it continuous, to enhance the stability; (4) restrain the internal noise and observation noise, to enhance the signal-noise-ratio; (5) de-noised with improved method, to promote star-sensor attitude output accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glomerella leaf spot (GLS) caused by Glomerella cingulata is a newly emergent disease that results in severe defoliation and fruit spots in apple. Currently, there are no effective means to control this disease except for the traditional fungicide sprays. Induced resistance by elicitors against pathogens infection is a widely accepted eco-friendly strategy. In the present study, we investigated whether exogenous application of salicylic acid (SA) could improve resistance to GLS in a highly susceptible apple cultivar ( Malus domestica Borkh. cv. ‘Gala’) and the underlying mechanisms. The results showed that pretreatment with SA, at 0.1–1.0 mM, induced strong resistance against GLS in ‘Gala’ apple leaves, with SA treated leaves showing significant reduction in lesion numbers and disease index. Concurrent with the enhanced disease resistance, SA treatment markedly increased the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and defence-related enzyme activities, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO). As expected, SA treatment also induced the expression levels of five pathogenesis-related ( PR ) genes including PR1 , PR5 , PR8, Chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase . Furthermore, the most pronounced and/or rapid increase was observed in leaves treated with SA and subsequently inoculated with G. cingulata compared to the treatment with SA or inoculation with the pathogen. Together, these results suggest that exogenous SA triggered increase in reactive oxygen species levels and the antioxidant system might be responsible for enhanced resistance against G. cingulata in ‘Gala’ apple leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reconstructing the vegetation history of east China during the last glacial–interglacial transition is crucial for understanding the East Asian Summer Monsoon (EASM) evolution. Here, we present a new high-resolution pollen record from Chaohu Lake to determine the detailed process of regional lowland vegetation succession and its response to the EASM changes during the last glacial–Holocene transition (13.9–9.1 cal ka BP) in the lower Yangtze Valley, eastern China. During the Older Dryas (OD, 13.9–13.5 cal ka BP) period, regional forest-steppe indicative of co–dominance of Artemisia , Poaceae , and deciduous Quercus was present under a cool and dry climate. During the Allerød Interstadial (AI, 13.5–12.9 cal ka BP), significant arboreal expansions of deciduous Quercus , Hydrangea type and evergreen Quercus occurred, while herbs retreated significantly, presumably driven by the relatively warm, humid climate. Forest-steppe readvanced during the Younger Dryas (YD) interval, as indicated by increases in Poaceae and Artemisia , suggesting a cool and dry climate. During the early Holocene, extensive oak-pine forest flourished as regional vegetation, responding to pronounced climatic amelioration. Our pollen-based climatic record is closely correlated with stalagmites δ18O records from EASM region and Greenland ice cores δ18O records, indicating the teleconnection between EASM variation and North Atlantic climate during the last deglacial–early Holocene. However, our record indicates an intensified EASM during the early AI and a prolonged onset excursion during the YD, diverging from North Atlantic climate but closely correlated to sea surface temperature (SST) variations in the western tropical Pacific. • Pollen record reveals regional vegetation history during 13.9–9.1 cal ka BP. • Last deglacial open forest–steppe succeeded to early–Holocene dense oak forest. • Oak–pine forest expansion could be an indicator of transition from last glacial to the Holocene. • Shift from last deglacial cool–dry to Holocene warm–humid climate was driven by EASM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethylene response factors (ERFs) are plant-specific transcription factors and play essential roles in plants' defense responses to abiotic stresses. In this study, we identified an ethylene response factor BrERF109, and explored its roles in response to drought and salt stress. The BrERF109 protein contained an AP2 domain and was localized in the nucleus. Expression analysis suggested that BrERF109 was mainly expressed in root and leaf, and highly induced by drought, salt, heat, and cold stresses. Ectopic expression of BrERF109 in Arabidopsis improved the tolerance to drought and salt stress in transgenic plants, accompanied by reduced ABA sensitivity, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities and chlorophyll content, as well as induced the expression of canonical stress responsive genes. Silencing of BrERF109 in Chinese cabbage by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) led to plants' susceptibility to drought and salt stress, and suppressed superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities. Furthermore, BrLTP3 , BrCIPK6 , BrAZF2 , and BrZAT10 genes containing GCC-box in their promoter regions were identified as downstream candidate targets of BrERF109. Overall, our study demonstrated that BrERF109 is a key positive regulator in response to drought and salt stress in Chinese cabbage, and serves as a valuable target gene for breeding new cultivars with enhanced tolerances to abiotic stresses in Brassica vegetables. • BrERF109 was significantly induced by multiple abiotic stresses in Chinese cabbage. • Silencing of BrERF109 by VIGS in Chinese cabbage increased plants' susceptibility to drought and salt stress. • Overexpression of BrERF109 in Arabidopsis improved plants' tolerance to drought and salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Effects of different-type diluents on manipulating solvation chemistry are highlighted. • An evolutive solvation structure and interfacial model are also presented. • Diverse behaviors for Li depositions and corresponding interfacial chemsitry are compared. • The full cells based high-voltage cathode with different systems are also explored. The growth of dendrites on lithium metal anode is troublesome because it induces irreversible capacity loss and safety hazards. Formulating localized high-concentration electrolytes (LHCEs) is an alternative solution to satisfy these challenges. However, the role of diluents in tailoring interfacial chemistry remains to be explicated. Herein, we decipher the direct relationship between different-type diluents and Li-coordinated solvation at the molecular scale. Compare to hydrofluoroethers (HFE), the "active" difluoro ethylene carbonate (DFEC) delivers a pronounced interaction with Li+ and 1, 2-dimethoxyethane (DME) molecule, resulting in a compressed but more accumulated aggregates (AGGs) solvation shell, assisting in the expected chemical nature of SEI with defluorination of DFEC. Consequently, DFEC-based LHCEs (D-LHCEs) realize a record-long lifespan over 3000 h with dendrite-free at 1 mA cm−2 and outstanding dendrite tolerance even under 3 mA cm−2 in symmetric cells. The assembled full cells with D-LHCEs outperform a superior capacity retention of ∼86.83 % with average CE of ∼99.42 % after 500 cycles at 0.5C and the remarkable cycling performance even under harsh conditions (including pouch cells or with controlled N/P of 1.8) in 4.45 V-level Li||LiCoO 2 cells. This work highlights the decisive role of diluents in pursuing high-efficiency electrolytes for high-energy Li metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible strain sensors have enormous application demands in health monitoring, soft robotics, and artificial skin. Traditional flexible strain sensors mainly focus on identifying strain amplitude. However, to determine complex movements, it is necessary for sensors to recognize not only the amplitude but also the direction of strain. Here, we propose a multi-directional strain sensor constructed from three flexible strain sensor units, which are based on a carbon nanotube (CNT) array, and configured in a right-angled triangle arrangement. Each strain sensor unit exhibited a strain detection range of over 90%, durability of over 5000 cycles, and fast response time (<150 ms). The multi-directional strain sensor can accurately identify the amplitude and direction (up to 180°) of the strain simultaneously. By optimizing the height and the size of the CNT array strips within the strain sensor unit, the preferred parameters for the sensor unit were determined. Further, by incorporating a neural network algorithm, the multi-directional strain sensor achieved synchronous detection of strain amplitude and direction with an accuracy rate exceeding 98%. Therefore, this work provides a new strategy for the design and construction of multi-directional strain sensors, underscoring their broad application potential in the fields of human motion monitoring and gesture recognition. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 (LTO) electrode with a hierarchical carbon-based conducting network has been developed for high rate lithium ion battery. The unique network is constructed by graphene sheets (GS) that are not only dispersed among (inter-) but also inside (intra-) LTO particles, together with a thin carbon layer wrapping around the LTO particles. The intraparticle GS promotes the electron transfer inside LTO particles while the interparticle GS together with carbon coating bridges the particles guaranteeing fast electron transfer among LTO particles, which construct a highway throughout the whole electrode sheet. Quantitatively, only a trace amount of GS (∼ 0.4 wt%) synergistic with carbon coating (∼0.8 wt%) contributes to a more effective conducting network in the produced LTO electrode and as a result much better performance as compared to the LTO case with similar carbon coating but free of GS. Due to the effectiveness of the conducting network, even with a tap density as high as ∼1.0 g cm −3 , the novel LTO possesses both excellent rate performance and cycling behaviors. The capacity of 123.5 mA h g −1 is obtained at a charge/discharge rate as high as 30 C and a very high capacity of 144.8 mAh g −1 is maintained even after 100 cycles at 10 C. Due to such a low fraction of carbon and a high tape density, the novel LTO electrode has a great practical application value in both the power and energy storage lithium ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tin dioxide (SnO 2) is a promising anode material for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. However, the huge volume expansion during cycling makes it far away from practical application. Herein, we report a template-free "heterogeneous carbonization" strategy for fabricating SnO 2 /carbon/void/carbon nanofibers (SCVC) compound membrane with finite spatial domain in carbon matrix as buffer layer for volume changes of SnO 2. Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is also imported into the SCVC membrane, acting as conductive binders to construct a free-standing SCVC-rGO electrode with exceptionally conductive network. The resultant SCVC-rGO anodes in lithium/sodium-ion batteries could deliver excellent electrochemical performances of higher reversible capacity, longer lifespan and superior rate capability. As lithium-ion battery anode, the SCVC-rGO electrode shows specific capacities of 950 mA h g−1 after 400 cycles at a current of 0.5 A g−1, and 824 mA h g−1 after 650 cycles at 1 A g−1. In sodium-ion batteries, the SCVC-rGO electrode gives rise to the specific capacity of 407 mA h g−1 after 2000 cycles at the current of 1 A g−1 with exceptional capacity retention. SnO 2 /carbon/void/carbon nanofibers membrane combined with reduced graphene oxide (SCVC-rGO) is constructed by a template free, one-step heterogeneous carbonization strategy. The internal void formed in situ in SnO 2 /C can be used as confined space to accommodate its volume expansion, while the residual ultrathin carbon layer on SnO 2 nanocrystals can prevent their amalgamation and recrystallization. The SCVC-rGO anodes exhibit excellent cycling stability and rate capability in LIBs and SIBs. [Display omitted] • One-step strategy of heterogenous carbonization to in-situ form buffering voids. • Based on the different carbon yields from various precursors and without the help of templates and corrosives. • Internal voids and residual ultrathin carbon layer ensure the complete reversibility of electrochemical reactions. • Excellent cycling stability and rate capability in half cells of LIBs and SIBs have been achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: As an appealing storage system for electric vehicle application, the lithium-oxygen battery could theoretically provide ultrahigh energy density; however, its attractive implementation is overshadowed by unsatisfactory electrochemical characteristics of the poor rate capability and the short span life. Here, we put forward one kind of effective strategy to ameliorate these deficiencies. By embedding a novel air electrode, the utilization level of the electrochemically available active sites is effectively increased and meanwhile the mass transfer of oxygen is signally improved. The evaporation speed of the solvent is greatly slowed down to some degree. We demonstrate that a super P-based lithium-O2 battery could be operated over stable 50 cycles at the current density of 3000 (equivalent to 2.4 mA cm−2), corresponding to a discharge time of about 20 min to 1000 . Based on the weight of the super P and the resultant Li2O2, the specific power density could reach 4040 W kg−1; even so, a substantial specific energy density of 1350 Wh kg−1 still could be achieved. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel LiFePO4/C composite with 3D carbon network was prepared using Cetyltrimethyl Ammonium Bromid (CTAB) and starch as carbon sources via a facile method. The 3D carbon network structure was composed of a full and uniform carbon coating and a continuous carbon film framework. Good conductive paths enhancing electrons transfer efficiency and porous structure facilitating diffusion of lithium ions have been constructed by the 3D conductive network structure, which contributes the high ionic and electrical conductivities. As a result, the LiFePO4/C composite possesses an excellent electrochemical performance especially the high-rate cyclic performance. It delivers a capacity of 95mAhg−1 at current density of 3.4Ag−1 (20C). After 1200 cycles, the discharge capacity of 74mAhg−1 can still be obtained, almost reaching a retention of 80%, which is higher than the best cyclic performance in previous investigations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) have attracted significant attention in the field of energy storage due to their high specific power, superior safety, and long cycle life. However, commercially available electrode materials, such as activated carbons, are still facing the challenge of low energy density. Graphene mesosponge (GMS) has shown promise as an electrode material for EDLCs due to its mesoporous structure, large specific surface area, and edge-free properties that allow operation under wide potential windows. Nevertheless, GMS materials reported so far consist of large micro-particles above 30 μm, which is unfavorable in terms of the long ion-diffusion path within the particles. In this study, a novel nanoplate GMS (np-GMS) is synthesized via a template carbonization approach, where chemical vapor deposition is performed onto a nanoplate MgO. The np-GMS exhibits a nanoplate structure with a lateral nanoplate size of approximately 1 μm and a nanoplate thickness of less than 100 nm. When employed as an electrode for EDLCs, the np-GMS shows a specific capacitance of 132 F g−1 in the potential window of −0.5 V to 1.5 V vs. Ag/AgClO 4. Moreover, the np-GMS-included EDLCs demonstrate a specific energy of 59 Wh kg−1 under a voltage window of 3.5 V, which outperforms the counterpart GMS with a larger particle size and commercialized activated carbon. The introduction of np-GMS is believed to open up new possibilities for improving the performance and industrial feasibility of GMS in EDLCs. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As emerging energy storage systems, potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) are suitable for grid-scale energy storage application due to the abundant potassium resources and low cost. It is crucial to achieve fast-charging PIBs. However, as the most promising anode candidate, graphite still faces setbacks in achieving fast charging due to poor kinetic issue. Herein, modified graphite (MG) is synthesized to realize the fast potassium ion storage. Benefiting from the enlarged graphitic space combined with unique porous microstructure, MG exhibits outstanding electrochemical performance. The optimized MG anode delivers a specific capacity of 115 mAh g−1 at 4 A g−1 and excellent cycling stability of 1500 cycles at 1 A g−1. Moreover, the full cell assembled with MG anode and Prussian Blue (PB) cathode exhibits a capacity retention of 75% after 20000 cycles at the current density of 1 A g−1. The excellent electrochemical performance is further demonstrated to be associated with dominant pseudo-capacitance behavior, i.e. surface or near-surface reversible redox reactions, which are less affected by solid electrolyte interface (SEI) than intercalation reactions. Our work proposes a strategy to optimize graphitic anode materials by regulating the microstructure and may provide insight into the synthesis of high rate carbon-based anode materials for PIBs. A low-cost modified graphite (MG) is prepared as an anode for potassium-ion batteries (PIBs), achieving higher specific capacity and superior long-term cyclic stability than pristine natural graphite. Moreover, the different impact of solid electrolyte interface (SEI) accumulation during K storage on the two K storage mechanisms (intercalation and adsorption mechanism) is investigated. [Display omitted] • A low-cost modified graphite was prepared as an anode to achieve fast-charging K-ion battery. • The first attempt to illustrate different impact of SEI on intercalation and adsorption K storage mechanisms. • Adsorption K storage mechanism is less affected by SEI than intercalation behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncontrollable dendrite growth and poor reversibility of lithium (Li) metal anode hinder the practical implementation of Li metal based batteries. Herein, we report a feasible and scalable electrospraying strategy for fabricating a vertically aligned graphene (VAG) pillar architecture with low tortuosity and high specific surface area as both current collector and host material for Li metal anode. Columnar and dense Li with large granular size plates into the VAG electrode by the aid of the pillar structure, which could ensure continuous ion transfer and lower actual current density for uniform nucleation, as well as provide more accommodation with proper space size. The hollow graphene pillars and the surrounding sufficient space enables smooth Li plating under high capacity depth and abstains volume fluctuation of the whole electrode. The VAG pillar modified Li anode delivers low overpotential of 25 mV over 280 h under a high rate of 3 mA cm−2, and high Coulombic efficiencies for 250 cycles at a capacity of 1 mAh cm−2. More importantly, full cells paired with the high capacity LiFePO 4 cathode exhibit excellent cycling stability and rate capability, demonstrating the high Li utilization efficiency and improved ion migration kinetic in the low tortuous VAG architecture. A lightweight vertically aligned graphene (VAG) architecture consisting of open channels and vertical graphene pillars is developed by a facile and scalable method. The low tortuosity, large specific surface area of VAG architecture contribute to dendrite-free Li plating behavior and continuous ion-transport pathways, thus significantly enhancing the reversibility of anode. [Display omitted] • A vertically aligned graphene (VAG) architecture with low tortuosity is developed. • The VAG architecture consists of hollow graphene pillar and appropriate interspace. • Uniform and columnar Li deposits are realized into internal space of VAG electrode. • The reversibility of VAG-modified anode is thus significantly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Six samples of α-MnO2 with different K ion contents are synthesized by using KMnO4 and Mn(CH3COO)2·4H2O with different pH values at room temperature. The samples are labeled as Mx where x denotes the pH value. The anomalous effect of K ion content on the electrochemical capacitance properties of amorphous MnO2 is investigated systematically. It is found that with the increase of the K ion content, the MnO2 nanospheres form a more dense aggregates, the surface area dramatically decreases from 273 (M2) to 14 m2 g−1 (M12), and pore volume decreases from 0.349 (M2) to 0.014 cm3 g−1 (M12). The specific capacitance (SC) is decreased by 17.6% from 157 (M2) to 131 F g−1 (M12). In addition, the SC values are greatly influenced by the molar ratio of K to Mn in the range of 0–0.4. And it is found that part of K ions in the MnO2 tunnels can be replaced by Na ions during electrochemical reaction. Finally, an appropriate explanation of the effect of K ion content on the SC values is provided. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]