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To evaluate the blink reflex (BR) in estimating the potential injury of trigeminal nerve following percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) surgery, and to determine the association between BR alterations and early surgical outcomes.In this single-center, prospective before-and-after study, a total of 74 patients who had primary trigeminal neuralgia and scheduled for PBC between October 2020 and June 2021 were prospectively included. BR testing and facial sensory assessment were performed pre- and post-PBC. The latency and the area under the curve (AUC) of pre- and postoperative R1 (R1The BR components were noticeably delayed or diminished following PBC. R1Both R1 and R2 were significantly diminished after PBC and these alterations were associated with early surgical outcomes, suggesting that the BR is useful in evaluating trigeminal injury following PBC and could provide objective information about early prognosis.

With the growth of demand for flexible devices, the development of flexible electrodes used in energy storage devices has attracted much attention of researchers. In this work, a thin flexible cathode of Prussian blue analogue@polyaniline rooted in carbon cloth has been fabricated. The Prussian blue analogue (PBA) is an electrochemically active material grafted on flexible carbon cloth substrates, which had been precoated with polyaniline. Polyaniline as an intermediate layer can not only improve the overall electronic conductivity of the electrode but also enhance the adhesion and load of the PBAs. The electrochemical properties of the flexible cathode with a "sandwich" structure were determined in half-cells, with a superior capacity of 151 mA h·g-1 and a striking cyclability with 96% capacity retention over 100 cycles at 100 mA h·g-1. This work proposes a novel perspective for the structural construction and material synthesis of flexible positive electrodes and gives new options for the practical application of flexible batteries.

Cathode materials play a decisive role in the building of high energy density sodium-ion batteries. Among them, Na3V2(PO4)2O2F (NVPOF) is receiving active attention due to its high structural integ...

In this paper the author present some new identities for q-analogues of multiple harmonic (star) sums whose indices are the sequences ({p}a) and ({p}a, p+1, {p}b). Then we use these formulas to establish some relations between multiple harmonic (star) sums and classical harmonic numbers and binomial coefficients. As an application we give some explicit formulas involving multiple zeta star values. Some interesting consequences and illustrative examples are also given.

Prussian blue analogues are potential competitive energy storage materials due to their diverse metal combinations and wide three-dimensional ion channels. Here, we prepared a new highly crystalline monoclinic nickel-doped cobalt hexacyanoferrate via a feasible and simple one-step co-precipitation method. In the process of sodium-ion de-intercalation, three stable charge and discharge platforms, which are consistent with the cyclic voltammetry performance, are seen for the first time, showing the function of nickel ions in Prussian blue. Furthermore, the charge transfer and structural evolution caused by the transmission of sodium ions were well revealed via ex situ XRD, ex situ XPS, and in situ EIS studies. Simulation calculations are performed relating to the energy band structure and the highest-occupied bonding orbitals of the system in different charge states, revealing the charge and discharge mechanism of the nickel-doped material and the reason for the emergence of the new platform at low voltages. In addition, NaNi0.17Co0.83Fe(CN)6 also delivers a striking capacity of 146 mA h g-1 and superior cyclability, with 93% capacity retention over 100 cycles; it can be considered as a promising alternative cathode material for use in sodium-ion batteries.

Highlights Dimensional gradient structure of sheet–tube–dots was constructed with CoSe2@CNTs–MXene for fast ion and electron transportation.Density functional theory study discloses the electrochemical difference of CoSe2@CNTs–MXene in ether/ester electrolyte system.Phase transformation of CoSe2@CNTs–MXene was analyzed by in situ XRD. The full cell based on CoSe2@CNTs–MXene anode was also assembled. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s40820-020-00562-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users., Recently, abundant resources, low-cost sodium-ion batteries are deemed to the new-generation battery in the field of large-scale energy storage. Nevertheless, poor active reaction dynamics, dissolution of intermediates and electrolyte matching problems are significant challenges that need to be solved. Herein, dimensional gradient structure of sheet–tube–dots is constructed with CoSe2@CNTs–MXene. Gradient structure is conducive to fast migration of electrons and ions with the association of ether electrolyte. For half-cell, CoSe2@CNTs–MXene exhibits high initial coulomb efficiency (81.7%) and excellent cycling performance (400 mAh g−1 cycling for 200 times in 2 A g−1). Phase transformation pathway from crystalline CoSe2–Na2Se with Co and then amorphous CoSe2 in the discharge/charge process is also explored by in situ X-ray diffraction. Density functional theory study discloses the CoSe2@CNTs–MXene in ether electrolyte system which contributes to stable sodium storage performance owing to the strong adsorption force from hierarchical structure and weak interaction between electrolyte and electrode interface. For full cell, CoSe2@CNTs–MXene//Na3V2 (PO4)3/C full battery can also afford a competitively reversible capacity of 280 mAh g−1 over 50 cycles. Concisely, profiting from dimensional gradient structure and matched electrolyte of CoSe2@CNTs–MXene hold great application potential for stable sodium storage. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s40820-020-00562-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Low-cost manganese hexacyanoferrate (NMHCF) possesses many favorable advantages including high theoretical capacity, ease of preparation, and robust open channels that enable faster Na+ diffusion kinetics. However, high lattice water and low electronic conductivity are the main bottlenecks to their pragmatic realization. Here, we present a strategy by anchoring NMHCF on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) to alleviate these problems, featuring a specific discharge capacity of 161/121 mA h g–1 at a current density of 20/200 mA g–1. Moreover, the sodiation process is well revealed by ex situ X-ray diffraction, EIS and Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics simulations. At a rate of 20 mA g–1, the hard carbon//NMHCF/RGO full cell affords a stable discharge capacity of 84 mA h g–1 (based on the weights of cathode mass) over 50 cycles, thus highlighting NMHCF/RGO an alternative cathode for sodium-ion batteries.

Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been suggested to contribute to malignant progression of glioma. Previous studies have demonstrated that miR-539 is dysregulated in malignant progression of cancers. However, the potential role and mechanism of miR-539 in the progression of glioma remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression status and functional significance of miR-539 in glioma. We found that miR-539 expression was significantly decreased in glioma cell lines and tissues. Overexpression of miR-539 markedly inhibited glioma cell proliferation and invasion, while miR-539 suppression exhibited the opposite effect. Bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that miR-539 directly targeted the 3′-untranslated region of Disheveled-axin domain containing 1 (DIXDC1). DIXDC1 expression was negatively regualted by miR-539 overexpression. An inverse correlation between DIXDC1 mRNA expression and miR-539 expression was found in glioma specimens. Furthermore, knockdown of DIXC1 significantly inhibited proliferation, invasion and Wnt signaling in glioma cells. Overexpression of DIXDC1 partially reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-539 on glioma cell proliferation and invasion. Overall, these findings demonstrate that miR-539 inhibits glioma cell proliferation and invasion by targeting DIXDC1. Our study suggests that the miR-539 may serve as a potential target for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of glioma.

Aim Arachnoid dissection is a basic step during facial nerve microvascular decompression (MVD). However, the literature focusing on the arachnoid microstructure in this region is scarce, and there are different views on how to handle the arachnoid around the cochlea nerve in order to protect the cochlea nerve. To provide a valuable reference for minimal invasion during facial nerve MVD, the arachnoid microstructure during the infrafloccular approach was studied in this paper. Material and methods This study recruited 55 patients with hemifacial spasm who underwent MVD. Retrospective analyses of the MVD surgical videos were performed to reveal the arachnoid microstructure during the procedures. Cadaveric head specimens (n = 8, on 16 sides) were dissected for observation of the microstructure of the arachnoid in the cerebellopontine angle. Results The arachnoid membrane surrounding the facio-cochleovestibular and lower cranial nerves forms two arachnoid sheaths. Both arachnoid sheaths contain two parts: the outer membranous and inner trabecular part. The membranous part is an intact and translucent membrane that wraps around nerves. The inner trabecular part is located beneath the membranous part and forms a trabecular network that connects the membranous arachnoid, nerves, and blood vessels to form a physical structure. Conclusion The arachnoid connects the facio-cochleovestibular and lower cranial nerves, blood vessels, and cerebellum as a complex physical entity. Therefore, during MVD surgery, sharply dissecting the arachnoid before retracting the flocculus and relocating the offending vessels helps reduce nerve injury.

Background Microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery is recognized as an effective treatment for hemifacial spasm (HFS). In MVD surgery, biocompatible materials are usually implanted in situ at the neurovascular conflict site in contact with the offending vessel and the facial root entry/exit zone (REZ). Another procedure of implanting the materials between the responsible vessel and the supraolivary fossa without REZ contact has also been applied. However, it is unclear whether there are any differences between these 2 procedures (REZ-contact procedure vs. REZ-non-contact procedure). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the placement of implants (contacting or not contacting the facial REZ) on surgical operations and outcomes. Methods A historical control study was performed. Clinical data of HFS patients who underwent MVD between December 2016 and November 2018 were reviewed and categorized into 1 group with the REZ-contact procedure or another group with the REZ-non-contact procedure according to the decompression strategy they received. Clinical demographics, postoperative outcomes, and complications were collected and compared between the two groups. Results Not all patients are suitable for REZ-non-contact decompression. A total of 205 patients were enrolled: 112 in the REZ-contact group and 93 in the REZ-non-contact group. In the early postoperative period, the complete cure rate in the REZ-non-contact group was significantly higher than that in the REZ-contact group. The reappearance and partial relief rates in the REZ-contact group were significantly higher than those in the REZ-non-contact group. The incidence of short-term neurological complications, especially hearing loss and transient facial palsy, was lower in the REZ-non-contact group (P=0.043). But for long-term follow-up of >1 year, there was no significant difference between the two groups in either curative effects or neurological complications. The operating time for REZ-non-contact decompression was relatively longer than for REZ-contact decompression (P=0.000). An unexpected subdural hemorrhage occurred in the REZ-non-contact group. Conclusions REZ-non-contact decompression procedure showed superiority only in short-term postoperative outcomes. Given its limitations and potential risks, the REZ-non-contact procedure can be used as an alternative individualized strategy in MVD, and there is no need to pursue REZ-non-contact during the decompression.

Designing Prussian blue with optimally exposed crystal planes and confining it in a conductive matrix are critical issues for improving its sodium storage performance, and will result in much improved sodium ion adsorption and diffusion, together with improved electron mobility. Here, we firstly illustrate through DFT simulations that the {100} lattice planes and [100] direction of the KxFeFe(CN)6 crystal are the preferred occupation sites and diffusion route for sodium ions. In addition, through coupling with RGO, KxFeFe(CN)6 electrodes exhibit better electronic conductivity. Accordingly, {100} plane-capped cubic K0.33FeFe(CN)6 wrapped in RGO was fabricated using a facile CTAB-assisted method. Due to the highly robust framework, higher specific surface area, greatly reduced number of lattice water defects and conductive RGO coating, K0.33FeFe(CN)6/RGO exhibits superior electrochemical performance in sodium-ion batteries. As a cathode, the RGO-coated K0.33FeFe(CN)6 yields an initial discharge–charge capacity of 160 mA h g−1 at a rate of 0.5C, and an excellent capacity retention of 92.2% at 0.5C and 90.1% at 10C after 1000 and 500 cycles. Furthermore, XRD, DFT simulation, XANES and EXAFS verified that the structural changes during the Na-ion insertion–extraction processes are highly reversible. All these results suggest that {100} plane-capped K0.33FeFe(CN)6/RGO has excellent potential as a cathode for sodium-ion batteries.

Establishing advanced sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) with high energy density and eco-friendly electrode materials are still far from satisfactory due to the large-size of sodium-ions and sluggish redox kinetics during electrochemical processes. Herein, a novel ultrafast kinetics net electrode assembled via MoSe2/MXene heterojunction is synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method followed by thermal annealing. Featuring the Van der Waals force interaction between MoSe2 and MXene, the volumetric change during the sodium ions insertion/extraction courses is effectively restrained, and the reaction kinetics is greatly enhanced further. Meanwhile, both the high electrical and ion conductivity (lower diffusion barrier between Na+/MXene ~0.066 eV) provided by the unique MXene based net heterostructure of our hybrid materials, as evidenced by DFT calculations, are beneficial to the transportation of sodium ions, thus enabling an outstanding rate and long-cycling capability. As a result, the fabricated cells exhibit high reversible capacities of 490 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1, as well as 250 mAh g−1 at a high current of 10 A g−1 with a coulombic efficiency of 99.8%, indicating the excellent electrochemical performance of our hybrid materials, especially at high current. This novel net MoSe2/MXene heterostructure, combined with our simple synthesis strategy together, are expected to have great potential in sodium-ions storage application.

We establish some identities of Euler related sums. By using these identities, we discuss the closed form representations of sums of harmonic numbers and reciprocal parametric binomial coefficients through parametric harmonic numbers, shifted harmonic numbers and Riemann zeta function with positive integer arguments. In particular we investigate products of quadratic and cubic harmonic numbers and reciprocal parametric binomial coefficients. Some illustrative special cases as well as immediate consequences of the main results are also considered.

Prussian blue analogs are receiving intense attention due to their high theoretical energy density and low cost, but their real applications are still hampered by poor electronic conductivity and cycling stability. Here, Na[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text]Mn[Formula: see text]Fe(CN)6 wrapped with graphene was synthesized by a facile co-precipitation method. The existence of RGO not only significantly increases the conductivity of the cathode, but also makes the framework much more robust during long cycling process. As the cathode, the Na[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text]Mn[Formula: see text]Fe(CN)6/RGO is able to deliver a high initial discharge capacity of 120[Formula: see text]mA[Formula: see text]h[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] at a current density of 20[Formula: see text]mA[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] with superior capacity retention of 96.7% after 100 cycles. Even at a current density of 1000[Formula: see text]mA[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text], the cell still delivers a capacity of 86[Formula: see text]mA[Formula: see text]h[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text], indicating outstanding rate capability. The results and the facile synthesis method enable Na[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text]Mn[Formula: see text]Fe(CN)6/RGO to the competitive for a future energy storage system.

jilin univ, dept mat sci, changchun 130023, peoples r china. changchun inst opt & fine mech, natl key lab high power semicond laser, changchun 130022, peoples r china. acad sinica, inst met res, shenyang 110015, peoples r china.;quan, jj (reprint author), jilin univ, dept mat sci, changchun 130023, peoples r china

A novel design of passive spherical metamorphic joint is proposed in this paper, the special mechanism of this design allows multi links to be connected together to do spherical motion about a rotation center. The main contribution of the joint design is the offset parallelogram mechanism and a couple door joints, which can overcomes efficiently the inherent defect from the conventional spherical joint design where a spherical joint can only connect two links simultaneously to do the motion. With this novel joint, we construct a kind of special six-bar spherical metamorphic mechanism. It is also explained how to do the configuration analysis, and to find the adjacency matrix of the metamorphic mechanism. According to the characteristic of the joint, some typical applications have been illustrated through parallel and variable geometry truss manipulators