Search

Seamless phase 2/3 design has become increasingly popular in clinical trials with a single endpoint. Trials that define success based on the achievement of all co-primary endpoints (CPEs) encounter the challenge of inflated type 2 error rates, often leading to an overly large sample size. To tackle this challenge, we introduced a seamless phase 2/3 design strategy that employs Bayesian predictive power (BPP) for futility monitoring and sample size re-estimation at interim analysis. The correlations among multiple CPEs are incorporated using a Dirichlet-multinomial distribution. An alternative approach based on conditional power (CP) was also discussed for comparison. A seamless phase 2/3 vaccine trial employing four binary endpoints under the non-inferior hypothesis serves as an example. Our results spotlight that, in scenarios with relatively small phase 2 sample sizes (e.g., 50 or 100 subjects), the BPP approach either outperforms or matches the CP approach in terms of overall power. Particularly, with n1 = 50 and ρ = 0, BPP showcases an overall power advantage over CP by as much as 8.54%. Furthermore, when the phase 2 stage enrolled more subjects (e.g., 150 or 200), especially with a phase 2 sample size of 200 and ρ = 0, the BPP approach evidences a peak difference of 5.76% in early stop probability over the CP approach, emphasizing its better efficiency in terminating futile trials. It's noteworthy that both BPP and CP methodologies maintained type 1 error rates under 2.5%. In conclusion, the integration of the Dirichlet-Multinominal model with the BPP approach offers improvement in certain scenarios over the CP approach for seamless phase 2/3 trials with multiple CPEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Utilizing external information in clinical trials enhances validity by including a wider population and expedites the implementation of adaptive designs, ultimately improving research efficiency. However, current research focused on scenarios in which only the control group benefited from the utilization of external information, while trials involving external information in both experimental and control arms were more complex and might pose challenges when applied in real‐world settings. Methods: To address these concerns, our study pioneered the application of test‐then‐pool, normalized power prior, calibrated power prior, and elastic prior to a two‐arm information borrowing framework and systematically compared their operating characteristics through a series of simulation studies under most and least desirable scenarios. Results: In the most desirable scenarios of information borrowing, all methods managed to control the mean of type I error rates within 5%, among which the normalized power prior, calibrated power prior and elastic prior approaches increased the mean of power from 85.94% to 95%. In the least desirable scenarios, the mean type I error rates for normalized power prior, calibrated power prior and elastic prior approaches exceeded 20%, while the mean power decreased to around 80%. Conclusions: Our findings reveal that the normalized power prior, calibrated power prior and elastic prior approaches are suitable for situations with minimal heterogeneity between historical and current data, whereas the test‐then‐pool approach emerges as a more prudent choice when facing substantial discrepancies between historical and current information for trials consider information borrow in both arms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irrigation is a common practice in agriculture to increase crop yield. However, the impacts of irrigation on microbial-mediated processes that influence soil carbon (C) pools and crop yield remains largely unknown. Therefore, we conducted a 2-year field experiment to investigate the effects of low (I1, 80% field capacity, 80%FC), medium (I2, 90%FC), and high (I3, 100%FC) irrigation upper limits on rhizosphere soil bacterial community, soil organic carbon (SOC) content, and wheat yield. The results showed that as the irrigation upper limit increased, the α-diversity of the bacterial community decreased. The bacterial community structure significantly differed across various irrigation upper limits. As the irrigation upper limit increased from low (80%FC) to medium (90%FC) or high (100%FC), the abundance of copiotrophic taxa (Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes) decreased, and oligotrophic taxa (Acidobacteria) increased, enhancing the decomposition of persistent C pools. In the second year of the irrigation experiment, the I2 and I3 treatments significantly decreased microbial biomass carbon (MBC), SOC content (by 4.62–7.30%), and the microbial quotient (MQ) compared to I1. Wheat straw biomass and grain yield also decreased as the irrigation upper limit increased from 80%FC to 100%FC, with key bacterial taxa (Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Chloroflexi) and functional processes (glycan biosynthesis and metabolism; folding, sorting, and degradation; translation; transport, and catabolism) playing key roles in wheat grain formation. Our findings indicate that adjusting irrigation levels affects the rhizosphere soil bacterial communities, and that the lowest upper limit of irrigation application (80%FC) is associated with maximum crop yield and microbial diversity. • As the irrigation upper limit increased, the α-diversity of the bacterial community decreased. • Increasing the irrigation upper limit (80–100%FC) shifted the bacteria from copiotrophic taxa to more oligotrophic taxa. • Bacterial community composition and metabolic function affected wheat yield. • Irrigation could alter the abundance of microbial metabolic functions associated with soil C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil and gas explosions threaten the process of industrial protection and personal safety, and explosion risk control/reduction has always been an important issue. As a clean and efficient fire-extinguishing agent, water mist has been evaluated via small-scale tests as a potential efficient material for reducing explosion hazards. To deepen the understanding of large-scale explosion mitigation using actual water mist, which is typically used for fire suppression, a series of experimental tests were conducted using a large explosion vessel (with a 1.5 m × 1.5 m section and a 10 m length). Explosion characteristics—flame propagation process and speed, explosion overpressure, and explosion overpressure rise rate—were determined and analyzed based on the measured data obtained using a Phantom high-speed camera, flame sensors, and pressure sensors, respectively. Two different types of water mist nozzles, different constraints of the vessel and set locations of the nozzles, as well as water mist additives were considered. The results indicated that both the characteristics of the water mist spray and the installation locations of the nozzles have significant effects on the explosion mitigation. In addition, it was found that the K 2 CO 3 additive can double the explosion mitigation effect of water mist using nozzle A, however, this effect is weaker than that when using nozzle B without K 2 CO 3. Therefore, the effect of K 2 CO 3 additive on the explosion mitigation is weaker than of the change in the water mist characteristics. These results will be relevant for further understanding the process safety of explosion mitigation using water mist under large-scale conditions and for the optimum safety design of water mist explosion mitigation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic fertilizer can alleviate soil degradation. While numerous studies have explored the immediate impacts of organic fertilizer on soil properties and crop production, the legacy effects of organic fertilizer addition remain less understood. This research investigated the subsequent effects of organic fertilizer addition during the winter wheat season on soil microbial community structure, co-occurrence networks, soil function, and summer maize yield from 2018 to 2020. Six fertilization treatments were implemented as chemical nitrogen fertilizer (N) alone or combined sheep manure and nitrogen fertilizer (SMN) at low, medium, and high fertilization levels during the winter wheat season, with only N fertilizer applied during the maize season. The findings revealed significant variations in bacterial and fungal community structures between the SMN and N treatments. The SMN treatments increased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes and decreased the relative abundance of Rokubacteria, Acidobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, Chloroflexi, and Nitrospirae compared to the N treatment. The SMN treatments had higher fungal network connectivity and lower mean path distance and modularity than the N treatment, resulting in heightened sensitivity of fungi to environmental changes. The legacy effects of organic fertilizer changed the functional potential of the N and C cycles, with keystone taxa such as Proteobacteria, Actinomycetes, Acidobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, Bacteroides, and Ascomycota significantly correlating with functional genes related to the C and N cycles. Surprisingly, no significant differences in summer maize yield occurred between the SMN and N treatments. However, the random forest model revealed that the SMN treatments had significantly higher explanatory power of soil microbial community structure for maize yield (74.31%) than the N treatment (13.07%). These results were corroborated in subsequent studies and underscore the legacy effects of organic fertilizer addition on soil microbial communities. This research offers valuable insights into organic fertilizer use for enhancing soil quality and sustaining agricultural productivity. [Display omitted] • Stronger response of fungal networks to organic fertilizer legacy than bacteria. • Organic fertilizer legacy changed the functional potential of N cycle and C cycle. • Keystone taxa significantly correlate with genes related to the C and N cycles. • No significant difference in yield occurred between organic fertilizer legacy and N. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A polyhedral microporous carbon derived from metal‐organic frameworks (ZIF‐8) could present good property for sulfur loading and trapping. A melting‐evaporation route was adopted to synthesize two sulfur/microporous carbon (S/MC) composites, of which sulfur content is controllable, and ether‐based or ester‐based electrolytes were used to evaluate the synthesized composites for the lithium sulfur batteries. According to electrochemical results, the S/MC composite with 65.2 wt% S in the ether‐based electrolyte exhibited optimized performance as compared with the composite with 65.2 wt% S in the ester‐based electrolyte, as well as the composite with 58.6 wt% S in the two kinds of electrolytes. For the S/MC composite with 65.2 wt% S in ether‐based electrolyte, the initial discharge capacity could reach up to 1505.9 mAh g−1 and the reversible capacity could be 833.3 mAh g−1 after 40 cycles at 0.1 C. Furthermore, while being respectively evaluated at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 C, the discharge capacities could still maintain at 544, 493 and 354 mAh g−1 after 300, 500, and 800 cycles, demonstrating appreciable cyclic reversibility and rate capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Aidi injection is one of the most commonly used Chinese patent medicines for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is made from an extraction of Mylabris Phalerata, Radix Astragalus, Radix Ginseng, and Acanthopanax Senticosus. Aim of the study The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Aidi injection in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy for stage IIIB/IV NSCLC. Materials and methods A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed following the PRISMA (the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Trials were combined using Review Manager 5.3 and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis(CMA) 2.0. Dichotomous data were expressed as risk ratio (RR) and continuous outcomes as weighted mean difference (WMD), with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) respectively. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Aidi injection plus platinum-based chemotherapy versus platinum-based chemotherapy, with efficacy and safety outcomes were selected. Disease Control Rate (DCR) was the primary outcome, Objective Response Rate (ORR), survival rate, quality of life (QOL), and toxic effects were the secondary outcomes. Results 42 RCTs recruiting 4081 patients with stage IIIB/IV NSCLC were included, with overall low-moderate methodological quality. Compared with platinum-based chemotherapy alone, Aidi injection plus platinum-based chemotherapy can increase relative benefit of DCR (RR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.09–1.16, P  < 0.00001), ORR (RR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.18–1.36, P  < 0.00001) , improve 1-, 2-, 3-year survival rates (RR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.02–1.28, P  = 0.03; RR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.05–1.64, P  = 0.02; and RR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.32–2.67, P  = 0.0005, respectively), QOL (RR = 1.80, 95% CI 1.61–2.01, P  < 0.00001), and reduce severe (grade 3 and 4) toxicities by 36% (RR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.58–0.70, P  < 0.00001). Conclusions From the available evidence, compared with platinum-based chemotherapy alone, Aidi injection plus platinum-based chemotherapy improves the clinical efficacy and alleviates the toxicity of chemotherapy in patients with stage IIIB/IV NSCLC. However, considering the intrinsic limitations of the included RCTs, well-designed, rigorously performed, high-quality trials are still required to further assess and confirm the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lithium-sulfur flow battery (LSFB) is a new addition to the rechargeable lithium flow batteries (LFBs) where sulfur or a sulfur compound is used as the cathode material against the lithium anode. We report here our evaluation of an organic sulfide - dimethyl trisulfide (DMTS), as 1) a catholyte of a LFB and 2) a multi-electron redox mediator for discharging and charging a solid sulfur cathode without any conductive additives. The latter configuration is also known as the redox-targeting lithium-sulfur flow battery (RTLSFB). The LFB provides an initial discharge capacity of 131.5 mAh g −1 DMTS (1.66 A h L −1 ), which decreases to 59 mAh g −1 DMTS (0.75 A h L −1 ) after 40 cycles. The RTLSFB delivers a significantly higher application performance - initial discharge capacity of 1225.3 mAh g −1 sulfur (3.83 A h L −1 ), for which 1030.9 mAh g −1 sulfur (3.23 A h L −1 ) is still available after 40 cycles. The significant increase in the discharge and charge duration of the LFB after sulfur addition indicates that DMTS is better used as a redox mediator in a RTLSFB than as a catholyte in a LFB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The migration of epithelial layers requires specific and coordinated organization of the cells at the leading edge of the sheet. Mice that are conditionally deleted for the c-jun protooncogene in epidermis are born at expected frequencies, but with open eyes and with defects in epidermal wound healing. Keratinocytes lacking c-Jun are unable to migrate or elongate properly in culture at the border of scratch assays. Histological analyses in vitro and in vivo demonstrate an inability to activate EGF receptor at the leading edge of wounds, and we demonstrate that this can be rescued by supplementation with conditioned medium or the EGF receptor ligand HB-EGF. Lack of c-Jun prevents EGF-induced expression of HB-EGF, indicating that c-jun controls formation of the epidermal leading edge through its control of an EGF receptor autocrine loop. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The cathode in lithium-selenium (Li-Se) batteries has garnered extensive attention owing to its superior specific capacity and enhanced conductivity compared to sulfur. Nonetheless, the adoption and advancement of Li-Se batteries face significant challenges due to selenium's low reactivity, substantial volume fluctuations, and the shuttle effect associated with polyselenides. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are under the spotlight for their outstanding catalytic efficiency and optimal atomic utilization. To address the challenges of selenium's low chemical activity and volume expansion in Li-Se batteries, through electrospun, we have developed a lotus root-inspired carbon nanofiber (CNF) material, featured internal multi-channels and anchored with molybdenum (Mo) single atoms (Mo@CNFs). Mo single atoms significantly enhance the conversion kinetics of selenium (Se), facilitating rapid formation of Li2Se. The internally structured multi-channel CNF serves as an effective host matrix for Se, mitigating its volume expansion during the electrochemical process. The resulting cathode, Se/Mo@CNF composite, exhibits a high discharge specific capacity, superior rate performance, and impressive cycle stability in Li-Se batteries. After 500 cycles at a current density of 1 C, it maintains a capacity retention rate of 82% and nearly 100% coulombic efficiency (CE). This research offers a new avenue for the application of single-atom materials in enhancing advanced Li-Se battery performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: Si/C Composite and Nanostructure Engineering: Advanced Si/C composites and multidimensional nanostructures address key challenges in silicon anodes, like volume expansion and unstable SEI, enhancing LIBs performance. Artificial SEI, Prelithiation, and Binders: Focus on stable artificial SEI layers, efficient prelithiation, and cutting-edge binders to improve Coulombic efficiency and reduce capacity loss, enhancing Si anode durability and efficiency. Real-World Application and Scalability: Analysis of these strategies highlights scalability and commercial viability, transitioning Si-anode technologies to practical, high-performance LIBs applications. Silicon (Si) has emerged as a potent anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), but faces challenges like low electrical conductivity and significant volume changes during lithiation/delithiation, leading to material pulverization and capacity degradation. Recent research on nanostructured Si aims to mitigate volume expansion and enhance electrochemical performance, yet still grapples with issues like pulverization, unstable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) growth, and interparticle resistance. This review delves into innovative strategies for optimizing Si anodes' electrochemical performance via structural engineering, focusing on the synthesis of Si/C composites, engineering multidimensional nanostructures, and applying non-carbonaceous coatings. Forming a stable SEI is vital to prevent electrolyte decomposition and enhance Li+ transport, thereby stabilizing the Si anode interface and boosting cycling Coulombic efficiency. We also examine groundbreaking advancements such as self-healing polymers and advanced prelithiation methods to improve initial Coulombic efficiency and combat capacity loss. Our review uniquely provides a detailed examination of these strategies in real-world applications, moving beyond theoretical discussions. It offers a critical analysis of these approaches in terms of performance enhancement, scalability, and commercial feasibility. In conclusion, this review presents a comprehensive view and a forward-looking perspective on designing robust, high-performance Si-based anodes the next generation of LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the potential of Longan peel waste (LPw) as a sustainable and cost-effective matrix for selenium-based cathodes in Li-Se and Na-Se batteries. Following activation, we created LP 2 —a designation for the carbon precursor derived from LPw, activated at a 1:2 ratio of carbonized LPw to KOH. This nomenclature, where 'LP' stands for 'Longan peel' and '2′ reflects the optimization of this ratio, led to a hierarchical porous structure with an average pore size of 3.0307 ​nm and a significant BET surface area of 111.9386 ​m2 ​g-1. Selenium was incorporated into the LP 2 matrix using a simple melt diffusion technique, yielding the composite Se@LP 2. In Li-Se batteries, Se@LP 2 exhibited an initial discharge capacity of 1033.75 mAh g⁻1 ​at 0.1C. At a 1C rate, the composite demonstrated a capacity retention of 301.14 mAh g⁻1 after 550 cycles and 380.91 mAh g⁻1 after 100 cycles. Moreover, for Na-Se batteries, the composite showcased a capacity retention of 347.18 mAh g⁻1 after 100 cycles at 0.1C. These findings underscore LP 2 's potential as a viable and efficient matrix for selenium-based cathodes, revealing promising prospects for the advancement of highly efficient Li-Se and Na-Se batteries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extreme drought events caused by global warming have become one of the major issues of general concern all over the world. It is estimated that over the past 50 years, the average annual drought-affected area has reached more than 200,000 km2, resulting in a global economic loss of US$6-8 billion, far exceeding other meteorological disasters. Therefore, conducting real-time and effective drought monitoring research is of great significance for issues such as climate change, drought defense, water resources management, and protection in various regions. Rice is the largest food crop in China and plays a pivotal role in food production. Drought is often regarded as one of the most important stress factors. Scientific, accurate, and timely assessment of the impact of drought on rice yield is essential for improving crop drought resistance and ensuring food production. In this study, based on the meteorological data, rice growth period and yield of the main rice planting areas in Chongqing Yangtze River Basin, and based on the drought index of passive microwave remote sensing observation data (AMSR-E), a statistical model of rice meteorological yield and drought index under the influence of drought is established. A rice drought disaster assessment is carried out. The results of the disaster assessment indicate that under the influence of drought, the rice yield reduction rate of representative sites in Chongqing Yangtze River Basin is between 3% and 10%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fuel volume and side vent location have obvious effects on gasoline vapor explosion. • Violent turbulence and oscillating flame propagation were observed and revealed. • Vent near ignition side has more enhancing effect on flame oscillating propagation. • The maximum sound pressure level is less affected by the side vent location. In this study, experiments are conducted with a small-scale vessel (cross section of 100 mm × 100 mm and length of 1000 mm) to investigate the effects of a 60 mm × 60 mm vent set on the vessel roof in vented gasoline vapor explosion. Different vent locations and gasoline volumes are considered and compared. The results indicate that the initial gasoline volumes significantly affect the color and propagation characteristics of the flame generated by the explosion. Violent turbulence occurs around the side vent when the flame is ejected through it, and the turbulence near the side vent becomes more intense as the distance between the side vent and the ignitor increases. Subsequently, flame-oscillating propagation behavior is observed. The amplitude of the flame oscillating propagation decreases as the distance between the side vent and the ignitor increases. The maximum explosion overpressure and deflagration index in the pipeline increase linearly as the distance between the side vent and the ignitor increases. The release of power of the gasoline vapor explosion damage can be significantly enhanced by reducing the distance between the side vent and the ignitor. However, a shorter distance between the side vent and the ignitor prolongs the explosion noise, which is harmful to the human ear. The side vent locations and gasoline volumes have negligible effect on the maximum sound pressure level of the explosion noise, which is approximately 120 dB in all cases. Additionally, the flame propagation dynamic process can be reflected to some extent by the change curve of the sound pressure level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• FM-200 is proved to be effective in mitigating ethanol gasoline explosion. • Blue, yellow to purple of the flame mitigated by FM-200 are observed. • The effect of initial volume on flame speed and overpressure is examined. • Products of explosion and its mitigation are analyzed and compared via GC–MS data. Ethanol gasoline is being widely used as a new environmentally friendly and energy-saving alternative energy, and the control/reduction of its fire/explosion risk has become an important aspect, not only for its production and storage, but also for its transport and application. This study aims to investigate the explosion characteristics of ethanol gasoline and its mitigation using heptafluoropropane in a restricted vessel. The flame propagation was visualized using a Phantom high-speed camera at 3000 fps, the explosion overpressure was measured using PCB pressure sensors, and the gas released from the vent was collected and analyzed using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer. The results indicate that heptafluoropropane has a good suppression effect on the flame propagation speed and the explosion overpressure. The maximum overpressure of an ethanol gasoline explosion is approximately 456 kPa, and the overpressure reduction exceeds 60% when the concentration of heptafluoropropane addition is 10%, whereas an explosion is completely mitigated when the concentration of heptafluoropropane continuously increases. In addition, different flame colors during the mitigation process, such as blue, yellow, and purple, were observed and analyzed. The results of this study will be valuable for further understanding ethanol gasoline explosion mitigation and designing optimum heptafluoropropane explosion mitigation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety issues and existing risks of ethanol-gasoline in industrial production have to be well considered and investigated. Especially when there are more than one thin doors, windows/thin walls in containers were broken once deflagrations occurred, but it appears that few researches deal with multi vented deflagrations. Hence we carried out experiments in a small cuboid container to investigate the effect of multiple vents' numbers and distributions on vented ethanol-gasoline vapor deflagrations characteristics. Multi overpressure peak structures during multi-vented deflagrations were first observed and analyzed to reveal the complex physical process in the venting. Results show that five overpressure peaks' structures were found (P b , P f v , P c v , P e x t and P a c) when multiple vents with the same area are arranged along the axis of the container's roof. Flame propagation and overpressure buildup are mainly influenced by the 1st vent (i.e., the nearest one to the spark plug). The 1st vent also determines the number and types of overpressure peak structures. Compared with the single vent, the cases of multiple vents with the constant total vent area may cause larger P m a x , d P / d t m a x and K G even if all vents are closer to the spark plug. Consequently, the use of multiple vents does not necessarily help to improve the vent effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A simple and effective interface engineering strategy to construct an artificial protective layer, zinc hyaluronate (denoted as ZH), on the surface of Zn anode is proposed. • The ZH film prevents direct contact between the Zn anode and electrolyte, reducing hydrogen evolution and corrosion, as well as promotes uniform Zn deposition, suppresses dendrite growth. • The symmetric cell assembled with Zn@ZH shows excellent long-term cycling over 3600 h at a current density of 5 mA cm−2 and a capacity density of 5 mAh cm−2. Developing long-cycle stable Zn-ion batteries encounters significant challenges associated with Zn anodes. To address these issues, we propose an interface engineering strategy using an artificial protective layer called zinc hyaluronate (ZH) on the Zn anode surface. The ZH film acts as a barrier, preventing direct contact between Zn anode and electrolyte, reducing hydrogen evolution and corrosion. Its carboxyl and hydroxyl groups create uniform and plentiful nucleophilic sites for Zn2+ ions, promoting uniform Zn deposition and suppressing dendrite growth. Remarkably, a Zn//Zn symmetric cell assembled with ZH-decorated Zn foil (Zn@ZH) exhibits outstanding cycle life, lasting 3600 h at a current density of 5 mA cm−2 and a capacity density of 5 mAh cm−2, much better than cells with pristine Zn anode. Even under extremely tough conditions of 10 mA cm−2 and 10 mAh cm−2, the battery life exceeds 1300 h. Furthermore, the Zn@ZH//V 2 O 5 full cell demonstrates superior capacity retention compared to the Zn//V 2 O 5 cell after 1000 cycles at a current density of 10 A g−1. These results highlight the benefits of the artificial protective layer strategy for advanced Zn anodes, providing insights into the underlying mechanism and promoting the development of high-performance aqueous zinc ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Current chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) assessment tools mostly have poor sensitivity and weak anti-interference, so that it is sometimes difficult to provide substantive guidance for clinical intervention. This study aimed to develop an assessment tool dedicated for oxaliplatin to address these limitations. Methods: This study screened 445 OIPN-related literatures for producing a symptom list, and developed the questionnaire module through expert supplement, item generation, content correlation analysis, pre-testing, and item improvement. The validation phase used a Chinese population-based prospective cohort study from June 2021 to July 2022. Patients were requested to complete the tested questionnaire, QLQ-CIPN20 and the CTCAE grading one day before cycles 2–6 of chemotherapy. Cronbach's α coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were calculated for the internal consistency and stability analysis, respectively. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to investigate the construct validity. The correlations among the tested questionnaire, QLQ-CIPN20 and CTCAE were compared for the criterion validity analysis. Wilcoxon signed-rank sum test was utilized to compare the sensitivity between the tested questionnaire and QLQ-CIPN20. Result: A 20-item CIPN assessment tool named chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy integrated assessment – oxaliplatin subscale (CIPNIA-OS) was developed. The validation phase included 186 patients. Cronbach's α coefficient of CIPNIA-OS was 0.764 (> 0.7), and ICC was 0.997 (between 0.9 and 1). The structure of CIPNIA-OS containing seven factors was examined. The correlation coefficient between CIPNIA-OS and CTCAE was 0.661 (95%CI 0.623 to 0.695), which was significantly higher than that between QLQ-CIPN20 and CTCAE (0.417, 95%CI 0.363 to 0.469, p < 0.01). Besides, the total score of CIPNIA-OS was mostly higher than QLQ-CIPN20, with an average difference of 2.189 (CI 95% 2.056 to 2.322), and the difference gradually expanded with the progress of chemotherapy (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study developed an original CIPN questionnaire which was dedicated for OIPN assessment. It was a comprehensive tool that covered acute OIPN symptoms and integrated features from several proven CIPN assessment tools. The validation results supported that CIPNIA-OS had satisfactory reliability, stability, construct, criterion validity, and was more accuracy and sensitive than QLQ-CIPN20 in the evaluation of OIPN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A flexible N-doped carbon nanofiber membrane loaded with Nb and Ni nanoparticles (Nb/Ni@NC) was prepared using electrospinning technology and a subsequent thermal annealing method and used as a self-supporting anode material for lithium-ion batteries. The Nb/Ni@NC nanofiber membrane had excellent flexibility and could be folded and bent at will without fragmentation and wrinkling; the nanofibers also had a uniform and controllable morphology with a diameter of 300–400 nm. The electrochemical results showed that the flexible Nb/Ni@NC electrode could deliver a high discharge capacity of 378.7 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g−1 and an initial coulombic efficiency of 67.7%, which was higher than that of the pure flexible NC anode in contrast. Moreover, a reversible discharge capacity of 203.6 mAh g−1 after 480 cycles at 1.0 A g−1 was achieved by the flexible Nb/Ni@NC electrode with a capacity decay for each cycle of only 0.075%, which showed an excellent rate capability and cycling stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A few of studies have investigated the temperature profile and air entrainment of the turbulent jet diffusion flame produced by the combustion of a gas mixture. In this study, the air entrainment rate and temperature distribution along the axis of a turbulent jet diffusion flame of propane mixed with different concentrations of carbon dioxide were therefore investigated, which using a series of experiments conducted with 2, 3, and 4 mm nozzles. The results show that the flame temperature increased in the continuous flame region and decreased in fire plume region as the carbon dioxide concentration increased under the same heat release rate. A virtual origin model was then developed to analyze the relationship between carbon dioxide concentration and flame temperature. The air entrainment rate of the fire plume region was influenced by the gas flow speed from the nozzles, and the total air entrainment rate was inversely proportional to the carbon dioxide concentration. A correlation among the flame temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, and air entrainment rate was then established, providing a valuable resource for the risk assessment of turbulent jet diffusion flames. • The temperature is proportional to CO 2 concentration in continuous flame region. • The temperature decreases since the dilution effect of CO 2 in plume region. • The air entrainment rate is inverse proportional to CO 2 concentration. • A new correlation between CO 2 concentration and temperature has been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon-based photovoltaic technology is helpful in reducing the cost of power generation; however, it suffers from economic losses and environmental pollution caused by silicon cutting waste. Herein, a hydrothermal method accompanied by heat treatment is proposed to take full advantage of the photovoltaic silicon cutting waste and biomass excrementum bombycis to fabricate flake-like porous Si@C (FP-Si@C) composite anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The resulting FP-Si@C composite with a meso-macroporous structure can buffer the severe volume changes and facilitate electrolyte penetration. Meanwhile, the slightly graphitic carbon with high electrical conductivity and mechanical strength tightly surrounds the Si nanoflakes, which not only contributes to the ion/electron transport but also maintains the electrode structural integrity during the repeated lithiation/delithiation process. Accordingly, the synergistic effect of the unique structure of FP-Si@C composite contributes to a high discharge specific capacity of 1322 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, superior cycle stability with a capacity retention of 70.8% after 100 cycles, and excellent rate performance with a reversible capacity of 406 mAh g−1 at 1.0 A g−1. This work provides an easy and cost-effective approach to achieving the high-value application of photovoltaic silicon cutting waste, as well as obtaining high-performance Si-based anodes for LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xijiao Dihuang decoction (XDT), a famous formula, was usually used to improve the prognosis of patients with blood-heat and blood-stasis syndrome-related diseases. There were some mutual promotion and mutual assistance herb pairs in XDT. However, the exact functions of these herb pairs in the compatibility of XDT were not elucidated due to the lack of appropriate methodologies. Based on the theory of serum pharmacochemistry, a systematic method was established for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of characteristic components in the extracts and drug-containing plasma samples of XDT and its relational mutual promotion/assistance herb pairs. For qualitative analysis, 85 characteristic components were identified using the liquid chromatography with triple time-of-flight mass/mass spectrometry (LC-Triple QTOF-MS/MS) based on the mass defect filtering, product ion filtering, neutral loss filtering and isotope pattern filtering techniques. For quantitative detection, a relative quantitation assay using an extract ion chromatogram (EIC) of the full scan MS experiment was validated and employed to assess the quantity of the 85 identified compounds in the test samples of single herb, herb pairs and XDT. The results of multivariate statistical analyses indicated that both the assistant and guide herbs could improve the solubilization of active compounds from the sovereign and minister herbs in XDT in vitro , might change the trans-membrane transportation, and regulate metabolism in vivo. The methods used in present study might be also valuable for the investigation of multiple components from other classic TCM formulas for the purpose of compatibility feature study. • LC-QTOF-MS/MS for holistic evaluation of TCM formula and drug-containing plasma. • Multiple filtering method was used to classify and screen multi-components. • A total of 85 compounds were identified in the test samples. • The quantity of the 85 identified compounds using a relative quantitation assay. • Serum pharmacochemistry was used to study the compatibility feature of TCM formula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CoN-Mo 2 N heterostructure is synthesized by nitriding the CoMoO 4 nanorods; • CoN-Mo 2 N heterostructure has strong adsorption/bidirectional catalytic capacity for polysulfides; • Li-S cells assembled with CoN-Mo 2 N modified separators show excellent electrochemical performance. A single functional material can hardly simultaneously overcome the problems of poor conductivity of active sulfur, shuttle effect and slow redox reaction kinetics of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) in rechargeable lithium-sulfur batteries. Herein, a multi-functional CoN-Mo 2 N heterostructure nanorods with excellent adsorption capability and bidirectional catalytic ability is introduced. It is found that the CoN-Mo 2 N heterostructure has a significant interaction with LiPSs, and its chemical affinity can promote the adsorption of LiPSs; The Li 2 S nucleation and electrochemical testing results show that the CoN-Mo 2 N heterostructure can promote the uniform nucleation and rapid growth of Li 2 S, where CoN tends to promote the oxidation reaction kinetics, and Mo 2 N promotes the reduction reaction kinetics. The assembled Li-S cells with CoN-Mo 2 N modified separators can deliver outstanding rate performance and long-cycling stability, with a high initial reversible discharge capacity of 1605.8 mAh g−1 at 0.1C, and capacity decay rate per cycle of 0.198 % after 200 cycles at 0.2C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequency of droughts and floods has increased due to climate change and human activities, leading to adverse impacts on agricultural production. Conventional tillage exacerbates the vulnerability of crops to extreme weather. Optimized tillage practices can maintain crop yield stability by increasing soil water-holding capacity during dry seasons and improving crop lodging resistance during heavy rainfall events. The effects of tillage practice under different rainfall types on the productivity of summer maize were studied by combining a five-year field experiment and a meta-analysis. The study tested four tillage treatments: conventional tillage (CT), no-tillage (NT), ridge cultivation with no-tillage (RNT), and winter wheat conventional tillage followed by summer maize no-tillage (NC). Normal rainfall years (2018, 2019 and 2021), a wet year (2020), and a drought year (2022) were experienced during the experiment. Compared to CT, NC significantly increased available soil water storage during the dry season by an average of 19.7 % (P < 0.05). NC and RNT had lower lodging rates during the wet year than CT, and over the five years, NC had a higher average maize yield (9.8 t ha−1) than RNT, while RNT had a higher yield during the wet year (10.7 t ha−1). NC also had significantly higher yield stability than CT. Furthermore, NC and RNT had higher rainwater use efficiencies (RUE) (23.9 and 23.0 kg ha−1 mm−1, respectively) than NT and CT (22.9 and 21.6 kg ha−1 mm−1, respectively). A meta-analysis showed that the crop yield under combined tillage (COT) was significantly higher than CT and NT by 6.7 % and 7.1 %, respectively, confirming the reliability and universality of the field experiment results. Overall, NC rotation is recommended as the best tillage system for sustainable crop production under semi-arid conditions, while RNT can be used in areas with abundant rainfall and prone to flooding. Our research findings offer evidence-based insights into management strategies that can enhance agricultural ecosystem resilience and production stability under extreme climate conditions. • The combined method of field experiment and meta-analysis was used in this study. • Combined tillage (NC and RNT) improves crop yield and yield stability. • Intermittent tillage (NC) improves the resistance of crops to extreme drought. • Ridge cultivation with no-tillage (RNT) improves waterlogging resistance. • The meta-analysis demonstrated the generality of combined tillage to improve yield stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique cobalt polysulfide/carbon nanofibers (C, N -Co x S y /CNF) film derived from zeolitic imidazolate framework is first prepared by a facile strategy. The hierarchical structure material is compose of CoS, CoS 2 , Co 9 S 8 , N -doped carbon nanosheets, and carbon nanofibers. The C, N -Co x S y /CNF electrode displays high specific capacitance and good rate performance due to the synergistic effect of cobalt polysulfide and carbon nanofibers. An asymmetric supercapacitor based on C, N -Co x S y /CNF and AC electrodes is assembled and exhibits high energy density and power density. [Display omitted] Developing new electrode materials is one of the keys to improving the energy density of supercapacitors. In this article, a novel cobalt polysulfide/carbon nanofibers (C, N -Co x S y /CNF) film derived from zeolitic imidazolate framework is first prepared by a facile strategy. The composite material with two-dimensional leaf-shaped nanoarray neatly grown on the surface of carbon nanofibers is composed of CoS, CoS 2 , Co 9 S 8 , N -doped carbon nanosheets, and carbon nanofibers. It is found that the composite can not only increase the contact area with the electrolyte but also provide abundant redox-active sites and a Faraday capacitance for the entire electrode. The C, N -Co x S y /CNF composite exhibits excellent electrochemical properties, including a high capacity of up to 1080F g -1 at 1 A g -1 and a good rate capability (80.4 % from 1 A g -1 to 10 A g -1). A C, N -Co x S y /CNF//AC asymmetric supercapacitor device is assembled using C, N -Co x S y /CNF as the positive electrode and activated carbon as the negative electrode, showing high energy density (37.29 Wh kg -1@813.6 W kg -1) and good cycle stability (90.5% of initial specific capacitance at 10 g−1 after 5000 cycles). This C, N -Co x S y /CNF composite material may also be used as a potential electrode for future lithium-ion batteries, zinc-ion batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Bi 2 Se 3 nanosheets were synthesized using a straightforward solvothermal process. • The thickness of Bi 2 Se 3 nanosheets was refined with ethylenediamine addition. • The optimized Bi 2 Se 3 cathode demonstrated impressive electrochemical performance. • Phase transition and multiple-electron redox reactions resulted in high capacity. Bi 2 Se 3 is considered a suitable cathode material for zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) because of its high conductivity and large layer spacing. Herein, Bi 2 Se 3 nanosheets with varying thicknesses are successfully synthesized using a one-step solvothermal process with adding different amounts of ethylenediamine. The introduction of ethylenediamine reduces the thickness of Bi 2 Se 3 from 250 nm to 22.7 nm. The thin structure exposes more active sites and shortens ion transport paths. Therefore, the optimized Bi 2 Se 3 nanosheet exhibits outstanding specific capacity (410 mA h g−1 at 0.2 A/g), high-rate performance (230 mA h g−1 at 5 A/g), and remarkable cycling stability (82.3 % capacity retention after 1200 cycles at 5 A/g). Furthermore, an in-depth exploration of cathodes during cycling is conducted to investigate the charge/discharge mechanism. A dynamic phase transition from Bi 2 Se 3 to BiSe, accompanied by nanosheet exfoliation, is observed during the initial few cycles, designating BiSe as the primary active material. Moreover, an additional redox reaction involving multiple electrons has been proposed. This study offers a valuable guidance for utilizing Bi 2 Se 3 as a cathode in ZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As ethanol-gasoline is being widely used as an energy-saving alternative around the world, its fire/explosion problems needed to be solved, but few research studies involve its explosion inhibition. Additionally, although dodecafluoro-2-methylpentan-3-one (Novec 1230) was a long-term replacement of Halon, its use in explosion inhibitions has not been found. This work aims to investigate synergy inhibition effects of Novec 1230 and venting on ethanol-gasoline (E10) vapor explosion. Flame propagation and pressure data were recorded using a high-speed camera and three pressure transducers, respectively. The chemical principle of E10 explosion inhibition using Novec 1230 was inferred and verified by reaction product analysis using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS). The results indicate that synergy of venting and Novec 1230 can effectively inhibit flame propagation and explosion overpressure of E10. As φ increased from 0 to 1.5, all typical overpressure peak structures ( P b , P f v , P c v , P e x t ) were inhibited and the best P c v reached 74.5%. For vented ducts, φ showed negative linear correlations with P m a x and K G , P m a x , and K G were quadratic increments monotonously with the vent coefficient ( K v ). Two formulas were obtained, which can be used to quantitatively calculate P m a x and K G at various φ and K v values. These results were useful for conditions that actual engineering required two explosion inhibition means simultaneously and Novec 1230 explosion inhibition system design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN) is one of the most common side effects of oxaliplatin, which can cause reduction and cessation of oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy and significantly affect patients' quality of life. However, no drug has got recognition to prevent or treat OIPN. Yiqi-Wenjing-Fang (YWF) is a joint name of Chinese medicine prescriptions with similar effects of tonifying qi and warming meridians, represented by Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu decoction (HGWD) and Danggui Sini decoction (DSD), both from "Treatise on Cold Pathogenic and Miscellaneous Diseases." YWF granules, including HGWD granules and DSD granules, have been, respectively, demonstrated to be effective in preventing OIPN in previous small-sample observations. The purpose of this study is to enlarge the sample size for further evaluation of the preventive efficacy and safety of YWF granules on OIPN. Methods and Analysis. This study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and multicenter clinical trial. 360 postoperative patients with stage IIa-IIIc colorectal cancer will be randomly assigned into placebo-control group, intervention group I, and intervention group II, taking the mimetic granules of YWF as placebo, HGWD granules and DSD granules, respectively. All subjects will receive oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy regimen at the same time. EORTC QLQ-CIPN20 will be used to assess the degree of OIPN as the primary outcome measure. The grades of OIPN, quality of life, chemotherapeutic efficacy, and the number of completed chemotherapy cycles are selected as the secondary outcome measures. Discussion. Based on the condition of no recognized effective drugs in preventing OIPN, evidence-based medical study will be conducted for seeking a breakthrough in the field of Chinese herb medicine. This protocol could provide reliable and systemic research basis about the efficacy of YWF granules and the differentiation of two classical prescriptions of YWF on preventing OIPN objectively. Trial Registration. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on 26 December 2020 (ID: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04690283). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Optimization of nozzle installation locations for effective fire suppression is proposed. • Non-tilted jet fires can be extinguished as gas-spray momentum ratio is below 0.68 %. • Tilted jet fires can be extinguished as normalized Reynold number is below 2.56. • OH radical and combustion species distributions in fire suppression are visualized. Fire incidents caused by leaks from natural gas pipelines should be quickly controlled by using clean and efficient approaches, such as water mist. Previous studies on the methane-air jet fire suppression by water mist have paid not only little attention to the OH radical distribution characterizing the combustion intensity, but also critical extinguishing conditions of jet fires. Therefore, planar laser-induced fluorescence of the OH radical is obtained to visualize OH radical distribution in fire suppression. Fire Dynamics Simulator v 6.7.4 is applied to simulate the flame-spray interaction and detail the instantaneous fire-extinguishing process by the flow field, gas temperature, reaction methane mass fraction and radiation attenuation in non-lift-off jet flame scenarios. The results show that, considering variation of the jet flame tilt angle, the jet fires can be effectively suppressed when the gas-spray momentum ratio is below 0.0068 in non-tilted cases and normalized Reynold number is less than 2.56 in tilted cases. In the terms of water mist system optimization, the installation location of 1.45 times the pipe diameter was considered as the maximum nozzle horizontal position for fire suppression in the flame Froude number range of 0.2∼1.5. Besides, the OH-PLIF measurement revealed that fire suppression resulting from the kinetics effect depends on whether the OH* flame structure is quickly broken by the downward spray thrust. This study may provide suggestions for natural gas fire suppression with water mist system, and give help for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions under Paris Agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Nowadays, acute intracerebral hemorrhage stroke (AICH) still causes higher mortality. Liangxue Tongyu Formula (LXTYF), originating from a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription, is widely used as auxiliary treatment for AICH. Objective. To dig into the multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway mechanism of LXTYF on treating AICH via network pharmacology and RNA-seq. Methods. Network pharmacology analysis was used by ingredient collection, target exploration and prediction, network construction, and Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG analysis, with the Cytoscape software and ClusterProfiler package in R. The RNA-seq data of the AICH-rats were analyzed for differential expression and functional enrichments. Herb-Compound-Target-Pathway (H-C-T-P) network was shown to clarify the mechanism of LXTYF for AICH. Results. 76 active ingredients (quercetin, Alanine, kaempferol, etc.) of LXTYF and 376 putative targets to alleviate AICH (PTGS2, PTGS1, ESR1, etc.) were successfully identified. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network indicated the important role of STAT3. The functional enrichment of GO and KEGG pathway showed that LXTYF is most likely to influence MAPK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways for AICH treatment. From the RNA-seq of AICH-rats, 583 differential mRNAs were identified and 14 of them were consistent with the putative targets of LXTYF for AICH treatment. The KEGG pathway enrichment also implied that the MAPK signaling pathway was the most correlated one among all the related signaling pathways. Many important targets with expression changes of LXTYF for AICH treatment and their related pathways are great markers of antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptosis, and lowering blood pressure, which indicated that LXTYF may play mutiroles in the mechanisms for AICH treatment. Conclusion. The LXTYF attenuates AICH partially by antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptosis and lowers blood pressure roles through regulating the targets involved MAPK, calcium, apoptosis, and TNF signaling pathway, which provide notable clues for further experimental validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries are promising due to their high safety, low cost, high specific capacity, and long cycle life. However, several critical issues, such as dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution, passivation, corrosion and low coulombic efficiency, hinder their commercialization. In this study, we propose a solution to these issues by introducing succinic acid (SA) to the traditional ZnSO 4 electrolyte. The carboxyl group in SA has excellent coordination capability with Zn2+ ions, which replaces some of the active water molecules in the Zn2+ inner solvation shell. This process disrupts the hydrogen bond network, regulates the solvation structure of Zn2+ ions, and suppresses the possibility of hydrogen evolution. Additionally, the carboxyl group has a strong bonding force with Zn metal, which preferentially adsorbs and reacts with Zn2+ to generate a Zn-SA composite protective film on the surface of the Zn anode. This feature reduces by-products and enhances uniform zinc ion deposition, resulting in a symmetric cell configuration assembled with SA additive that can cycle stably for over 4000 h at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mA h cm−2, with an average Coulombic Efficiency of 99.7% during Zn plating/stripping processes. Even at high current densities of up to 10 mA cm−2, the cell can achieve a stable cycle of 500 h. As a proof-of-concept, we assembled a Zn–V 2 O 5 full cell with SA addition, which demonstrated distinguished rate performance and specific capacity retention over 1000 cycles. [Display omitted] • Succinic acid regulates the solvation structure of zinc ions and benefits zinc ions transferring. • Succinic acid exhibits excellent coordination capability with zinc ions, disrupting hydrogen bond network. • Zinc-succinic acid composite protective film reduces by-products and enhances uniform zinc ion deposition. • Zinc-succinic acid composite layer facilitates uniform zinc deposition on the favorable (002) plane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate warming has increased the frequency of droughts and excessive precipitation, adversely affecting crop growth, particularly under traditional intensive tillage. No-till improves crop tolerance to extreme events by reducing soil evaporation and improving soil structural stability to enhance soil water storage capacity and crop resistance, but long-term mono-no-till cakes the soil, reducing crop yield. Combining intensive tillage with no-till can compensate for some deficiencies arising from conventional tillage or single no-till. A three-year field experiment was conducted in wet (2020) and normal (2019 and 2021, where a drought event occurred in 2021) years to study the effect of tillage practices on summer maize productivity under different precipitation types. Treatments included conventional tillage (CT), no-tillage (NT), ridge cultivation with no-tillage (RNT), and conventional tillage of winter wheat combined with no-tillage of summer maize (NC). Compared with NT, NC and RNT significantly reduced soil bulk density and increased soil porosity in the 0–20 cm soil layer. Compared with CT, NC and RNT significantly improved aggregate stability, NC increased available soil water storage by 19.7% in the dry season (P < 0.05), and NC and RNT significantly reduced lodging rate in the rainy season. Over the three years, NC and RNT maintained higher maize yields (NC: 10.3 t ha–1 and RNT: 10.0 t ha–1) than CT (9.2 t ha–1), and NC had significantly higher yield stability than CT. Meanwhile, NC and RNT had higher precipitation use efficiency (PUE; NC: 21.2 kg ha–1 mm–1, RNT: 20.7 kg ha–1 mm–1) than NT (20.1 kg ha–1 mm–1) or CT (19.1 kg ha–1 mm–1). In terms of combined productivity, NC and RNT provide a more suitable soil environment for crop growth and maintain higher yield than NT and CT. NC rotation is recommended as the optimal tillage system for sustainable crop production under semi - arid agricultural conditions. RNT can be extended to areas prone to flooding with abundant rainfall. These results offer a benchmark for future studies on regional maize production under climate change. • The effect of tillage on maize productivity under abnormal precipitation conditions was analyzed. • Combined tillage effectively reduces the risk of crop failure due to seasonal drought or flooding. • The high yield is due to higher water use efficiency in the dry season and higher resistance to lodging in the wet season. • No-tillage and conventional tillage rotation tillage（NC） is suitable for maize production in most areas. • Ridge cultivation with no-tillage (RNT) is suitable for areas with abundant precipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sheltered fire can be successfully extinguished by water mist as K p <1.60. • Developed empirical correlation K p =-0.54 α c +2.36 can predict fire extinction limit. • Water mist-flame interaction is visualized experimentally and numerically. • Simulation underestimates water mist fire suppression ability under higher K p and Q ˙. Fires in commercial and industrial areas, such as large warehouses containing goods on shelves, are inevitably shielded by nearby objects that act as obstacles, making such fires difficult to extinguish. Water mists, as an alternative to the halon fire-extinguishing agent, are capable of bypassing obstacles owing to the small size of the water particles. Therefore, by varying the distance between a plate obstacle and the nozzlefire source, half-scale experiments were performed under different working pressures to determine the critical condition of shielded sand-burner fire extinguishment. The flame temperature and radiant heat flux were measured using thermocouples and a radiometer. The interaction between a water mist spray and a shielded fire was visualized via laser light sheet illumination. The fire-extinguishing capability was analyzed based on the plate obstacle block ratio and the plume–spray thrust ratio. The results indicate that an empirical linear correlation can be adopted to predict the critical plume–spray thrust ratio required for fire extinguishment under different block ratios. In addition, Fire Dynamics Simulator was used to simulate the spray–plume interaction under the shielding conditions employed. The experimental and numerical results show a similar suppression tendency in cases with a low block ratio and fire size. This preliminary study may provide some raw data on shielded fire suppression with a water mist, in addition to serving as a reference for the optimal design of water mist systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We characterize the variation in the inner lateral environment with five indexes. The emitter clogging risk was affected by the drip irrigation time. The emitter clogging risk was significantly correlated with sediment mass and particle size composition. Lateral flushing changes the adhesion direction of the clogging materials and lowers the emitter clogging risk. Emitter clogging is one of the most important limiting factors affecting the promotion of drip irrigation. To examine the impact of the irrigation time on the lateral environment and to develop an optimal way to mitigate the emitter clogging risk, 4 different irrigation times (3, 7, 10 and 30 times) were examined with each irrigation period lasting 2 daily hours. Then, the lateral inner environment was studied from the perspectives of the mass, particle size composition, mineral composition, microbial content of the sediment in the lateral (includes sediment deposited in and adhered to the lateral, DS and AS, respectively). The index of the emitter clogging risk was used to indicate the emitter clogging level of the drip irrigation system. The results indicated that emitter clogging risk (R ec) was significantly correlated with the DS mass, AS mass, rate of change of the AS mass and fractal dimension (p < 0.01), and the AS mass was correlated with the bacterial content in the AS (p < 0.05). This finding indicates that R ec was affected by the lateral inner environment. The DS affected the changes in R ec , mainly through influencing the mass of clogging substances in the grid structures and the particle size across the labyrinth channel. The increasing AS captures nutrients and provides a suitable environment for the growth of bacteria in the laterals, inlet grid and labyrinth channel. Additionally, the mass of clogging substances (mainly the AS) increased steadily during the process of particle adhesion, which leads to irreversible clogging. The R ec declined rapidly in the initial stage of irrigation and then gradually decreased over the irrigation duration. There was a boundary between short and long irrigation times (between irrigation times of approximately 7 and 10 in this research), which was the optimum lateral flushing period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CNO-V 0.005 anode material prepared by simple molten salt method not only has faster lithium-ion diffusion kinetics and lower transfer internal resistance, but also has 276.9 mAh g−1 of high discharge capacity at current density of 2000 mA g−1 over 1000 cycles. [Display omitted] • CoNb 2 O 6 was prepared and was in-situ doped with V5+ ion by a molten-salt method. • The interstitial-doped CNO-V 0.005 exhibits long cycling stability at 2000 mA g−1 (≈ 8C). • The CNO-V 0.005 ||LiFePO 4 full cell has discharge capacity of 150.6 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles. Niobium-based bimetallic oxide, as a potential anode material for fast-charging lithium-ion batteries, has attracted much attention owing to its unique lithium intercalation channel. However, the poor conductivity and structural instability of such material severely limit its further application. In this paper, CoNb 2 O 6 was prepared by a molten-salt method and was in-situ doped with high-valence V5+ ion in different proportions. Different from conventional substitutional doping, a small amount of interstitial doping is more conducive to the entry of V5+ into the gap, which leads to lattice expansion. With the increase of doping amount, elemental Nb5+ was gradually replaced by V5+, which then hinders the Li+ intercalation/de-intercalation to a certain extent. Based on the DFT and electrochemical tests, the interstitial-doped CNO-V 0.005 nanoparticles has not only faster Li+ diffusion kinetics and lower energy barrier, but also delivers high discharge capacity with long cycling stability at high current density of 2000 mA g−1 (≈ 8C). After assembling the full cell with CNO-V 0.005 and commercial LiFePO 4 cathode material, the reversible capacity of 150.6 mAh g−1 could be achieved after 200 cycles at the current density of 1000 mA g−1, demonstrating its application potential in fast- charging lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The higher specific energy leads to more heat generation of a battery, which affects the performance and cycle life of a battery and even results in some security problems. In this paper, the capacity calibration, Hybrid Pulse Power Characteristic (HPPC), constant current (dis)charging, and entropy heat coefficient tests of chosen 11‐Ah lithium‐ion batteries are carried out. The entropy heat coefficient increases firstly and then decreases with the increase of the depth of discharge (DOD) and reaches the maximum value near 50% DOD. An electrochemical‐thermal coupled model of the chosen battery is established and then verified by the tests. The simulation voltage and temperature trends are in agreement with the test results. The maximum voltage and temperature error is within 2.06% and 0.4°C, respectively. Based on the established model, the effects of adjustable parameters on electrochemical characteristic are systematically studied. Results show that the average current density, the thickness of the positive electrode, the initial and maximum lithium concentration of the positive electrode, and the radius of the positive electrode particle have great influence on battery capacity and voltage. In addition, the influence degree of the internal resistance of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer, the thickness of negative electrode, and the initial and maximum lithium concentration of the negative electrode on the capacity and voltage is associated with certain constraints. Meanwhile, the influences of adjustable parameters related to thermal characteristic are also systematically analyzed. Results show that the average current density, the convective heat transfer coefficient, the thickness, and the maximum lithium concentration of the positive electrode have great influence on the temperature rise. Besides, the uniformity of the temperature distribution deteriorates with the increase of the convective heat transfer coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The higher specific energy leads to more heat generation of a battery, which affects the performance and cycle life of a battery and even results in some security problems. In this paper, the capacity calibration, Hybrid Pulse Power Characteristic (HPPC), constant current (dis)charging, and entropy heat coefficient tests of chosen 11‐Ah lithium‐ion batteries are carried out. The entropy heat coefficient increases firstly and then decreases with the increase of the depth of discharge (DOD) and reaches the maximum value near 50% DOD. An electrochemical‐thermal coupled model of the chosen battery is established and then verified by the tests. The simulation voltage and temperature trends are in agreement with the test results. The maximum voltage and temperature error is within 2.06% and 0.4°C, respectively. Based on the established model, the effects of adjustable parameters on electrochemical characteristic are systematically studied. Results show that the average current density, the thickness of the positive electrode, the initial and maximum lithium concentration of the positive electrode, and the radius of the positive electrode particle have great influence on battery capacity and voltage. In addition, the influence degree of the internal resistance of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer, the thickness of negative electrode, and the initial and maximum lithium concentration of the negative electrode on the capacity and voltage is associated with certain constraints. Meanwhile, the influences of adjustable parameters related to thermal characteristic are also systematically analyzed. Results show that the average current density, the convective heat transfer coefficient, the thickness, and the maximum lithium concentration of the positive electrode have great influence on the temperature rise. Besides, the uniformity of the temperature distribution deteriorates with the increase of the convective heat transfer coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A molten salt method for large-scale synthesis of NiNb 2 O 6 submicron particles is proposed. • The NiNb 2 O 6 anode material exhibits an outstanding cycling stability and rate performance up to 20 A g−1 in a Li half-cell. • The assembled NiNb 2 O 6 ||LiFePO 4 full cell can retain 89.3% capacity after 800 cycles at 1.0 A g−1. Niobium-based oxides as lithium-ion battery anode materials have attracted much attention due to their excellent fast-charging capability. However, the solid-phase synthesis of niobates often involves harsh reaction conditions, especially high temperature over 1100 °C. Herein, a molten salt method is proposed to synthesize NiNb 2 O 6 submicron particles, with synthetic temperature of 900 °C, gram-scale production and high reaction yield of 96.6%. Remarkably, NiNb 2 O 6 at the sub-micron scale shows superior electrochemical performance compared to the micron and nano scale sizes, i.e., reversible capacity of 320.9 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 2.0 A g−1 (≈8.5C) and high capacity retention of 85.8% over 5000 cycles at 20 A g−1 (≈85C), mainly arising from the pseudo-capacitance electrochemical behavior and stable structure of material during repeated cycles. Moreover, the assembled NiNb 2 O 6 ||LiFePO 4 full cell can retain 89.3% capacity after 800 cycles at 1.0 A g−1. This work offers a simple and efficient method for preparing NiNb 2 O 6 submicron particles as anode material for fast -charging lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tripterygium wilfordii Hook.f. (TWHF) is a traditional Chinese herb long used for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment, in modern times, often in the form of various Tripterygium wilfordii Hook.f. preparations (TWPs). This systematic review and meta-analysis focuses on analyzing the clinical efficacy and safety of TWPs in the treatment of RA. Databases were searched to collect the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on TWPs treating RA published on or before April 10, 2017. Data from 11 studies were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with the control group, TWPs can increase effectiveness, while decreasing erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), rheumatoid factor (RF), C-reactive protein (CRP), and risk of adverse events. TWPs treatment was also more effective than treatment by conventional western medicine (CWM) and Chinese patent medicine or placebo (COP). TWPs significantly decreased the risk of adverse events compared with the CWM group, but not compared with the COP group. Current evidence shows that TWPs are more effective than other western or Chinese medicines we included in this meta-analysis for RA treatment with relatively lower toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the separator commonly used in lithium sulfur batteries has a large pore size and the adsorption effect of polyolefin based materials on soluble polysulfides is not obvious, the research on the modification of separator has aroused great interest. In this paper, the effects of different sizes of CoMoO 4 nanorods as functional coating materials on the performance of lithium-sulfur batteries were investigated. The results prove that there is a strong affinity between the Co-O-Mo polar bond of CoMoO 4 and LiPSs, which can enhance the chemisorption of LiPSs; Moreover, compared with CoMoO 4 -12, CoMoO 4 -24 nanorods with smaller particle size can increase the contact area and reactive sites with electrolyte, and the electrolyte penetration is promoted in the CoMoO 4 -24 coated separator, and the rapid transformation of LiPSs during charge and discharge is realized. Therefore, the Li-S battery assembled with CoMoO 4 -24 coated separator can deliver an initial capacity of 1018.5 mAh g−1 at 0.2C and a capacity retention of 745.5 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles, higher than the cells assembled with CoMoO 4 -12 coated separator and blank separator, exhibiting more remarkable electrochemical performance. • The CoMoO 4 nanorods were synthesized by hydrothermal method and subsequent thermal annealing method. • The CoMoO 4 nanorods were used as adsorption/catalytic medium to fabricate functional separator. • Li-S battery assembled with CoMoO 4 -24 coated separator shows better electrochemical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The prepared PCC could induce porous structure of the PANi. • A convertiblesites was firstly observed for PANi. • The mass energy density of the electrode was significantly enhanced. • The capacity decay is small from 1 A g−1 to 10 A g−1. Polyaniline (PANi) has brought new enthusiasm in the field of aqueous Zn-ion batteries due to the unique nature of high conductivity, excellent structural flexibility, and fast ions de-/intercalation ability. However, the naked and densified PANi usually suffers from capacity fade and limited rate performance owing to the deprotonation of the polymer and imbalanced electron-ion transmission. Herein, a HCl-doped porous PANi electrode was prepared by electrodepositing the aniline monomer onto a porous carbon cloth (PCC), which plays an important role in elevating the loading mass and inducing porous structure of the PANi, thus enhancing the mass energy density and ions diffusion coefficient of the electrode; On the other hand, the HCl-doping could facilitate the charge delocalization and increase the conductivity of the PANi. Besides, a convertible behavior of the energy storage sites during charging-discharging processes was firstly observed for PANi, which should be responsible for the high-rate and cycling performance of the Zn-ion batteries, there is very small capacity decay from 170 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 to 161 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1, and 87 % of the initial the capacity can maintain after 2000 cycles at 5 A g−1. Furthermore, the quasi-solid-state Zn-ion battery can also display superior performance, showing potential application of the PCC@PANi for wearable devices [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Core-shell type olivine solid solutions, LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 /C, are synthesized via a very simple and rapid microwave heating route with different carbon sources. The obatined LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 /C materials are characterized thoroughly by various analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy instrument. The particle sizes and distribution of the carbon layer of BP2000 carbon black coated LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 (LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 /BP) are more uniform than that obtained from acetylene black (LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 /AB) and Super P (LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 /SP). Moreover, the LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 /BP nanocomposite shows superior electrochemical properties such as high discharge capacity of 160 mA h g −1 at 0.1 C, excellent cyclic stability (143 mA h g −1 at 0.1 C after 30 cycles) and rate capability (76 mAh g −1 at 20 C), which are better than other two samples. Cyclic voltammetric and electrical tests disclose that the Li-ion diffusion, the reversibility of lithium extraction/insertion and electrical conductivity are significantly improved in LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 /BP composite. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy illustrates that LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 /BP composite electrode possesses low contact and charge-transfer impedances, which can lead to rapid electron transport during the electrochemical lithium insertion/extraction reaction. It is believed that olivine solid solution LiFe 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 PO 4 decorated with carbon from appropriate carbon source is a promising cathode for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CoSe@NC nanofiber membrane was synthesized by electrospinning and thermal annealing method. • CoSe nanoparticles have strong adsorption and catalytic capability for polysulfides. • Li-S battery with CoSe@NC nanofiber membrane as interlayer shows excellent electrochemical performance. Lithium sulfur (Li-S) batteries have attracted tremendous attention due to their low cost and high theoretical capacity. However, the serious polysulfides shuttle and slow redox reaction kinetics hinder their large-scale commercial applications. Various attempts have been made to solve the problems. Herein, a CoSe@NC nanofiber membrane was prepared by electrospinning method and used as independent functional interlayer for the Li-S batteries. The visualized adsorption experiments show that the CoSe@NC nanofiber exhibits strong adsorption capability for polysulfides; In addition, CoSe nanoparticles with strong catalytic activity can accelerate the conversion of polysulfides. The adsorption-catalysis synergy of CoSe@NC can therefore effectively enhance the rate performance and cycling stability of Li-S batteries. The cell assembled with CoSe@NC functional interlayer delivers a high initial reversible discharge capacity of 1317 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C rate. After 200 cycles at 1.0 C, the capacity decay rate is only 0.16% per cycle. This work provides a feasible way to promote the electrochemical performance of Li-S batteries [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• FeCo 2 O 4 -NLA/CC electrode was prepared using KOH+K 3 [Fe(CN) 6 ] as an electrolyte. • Charge storage kinetics and electron transport mechanism are discussed. • The electrode in 3 M KOH + 0.05 M K 3 [Fe(CN) 6 ] shows a highest specific capacitance. • An hybrid supercapacitor presents increased specific capacitance and energy density. Due to the increasing requirement of small electronic devices for high energy output and long-term lifespan, hybrid supercapacitor device with ultrahigh energy density and long cycle stability has attracted great attention in recent decades. Herein, we constructed an aqueous FeCo 2 O 4 needle-like array (NLA)/CC-based hybrid supercapacitor using K 3 [Fe(CN) 6 ] as an electrolyte additive to enhance the pseudocapacitor performance. The extensive charge storage kinetics and the electron transport mechanism of the FeCo 2 O 4 -NLA in KOH+K 3 [Fe(CN) 6 ] electrolyte are discussed. The FeCo 2 O 4 -NLA soaked in a 3 M KOH + 0.05 M K 3 [Fe(CN) 6 ] mixed solution shows high specific capacitance (259.33 mA h g−1 at 2 A g−1), low charge transfer resistance and internal resistance, and long-term cycle stability (over 80.7% of capacitance retention at 10 A g−1 after 5000 cycles). An aqueous FeCo 2 O 4 -NLA//KOH+K 3 [Fe(CN) 6 ]//AC hybrid supercapacitor device is assembled, which presents increased specific capacitance, long cycle stability (86.4% of the initial capacitance), and ultrahigh energy density (58.8 W h kg−1 @750.1 W kg−1). This work may provide a new approach to obtain high-performance energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A facile and practical route is developed to synthesize high-quality nanocomposites. • Uniform TMNs/rGO nanocomposites with controllable mass ratio and morphology are synthesized. • The TMNs/rGO nanocomposites exhibit much higher capacity, better rate and cycling performance than the pristine TMNs. Uniform TMNs/rGO (M = Nb, Fe) nanocomposites are synthesized by an effective and practical method, which exhibit much higher capacity, better rate and cycling performance than the pristine TMNs. ga1 To address the growing concern for the rapidly increasing energy storage demand, it requires vigorous development of cutting-edge electrode materials to improve the lithium storage performance. Transition metal nitrides (TMNs), owning to the high electrical conductivity and considerable theoretical capacity, have attracted widespread attention as the electrode material for lithium ion storage. However, the volume variation and few active sites limit their applications. Herein, uniform TMNs/rGO (M=Nb, Fe) nanocomposites with controllable mass ratio and morphology are successfully synthesized, which can buffer the volume expansion effectively. As a result, the TMNs/rGO nanocomposites exhibit much better performance to the pristine TMNs. Specifically, the TMNs/rGO nanocomposites display a high reversible specific capacity (434.8 mAh g−1 for Nb 4 N 5 /rGO and 463.0 mAh g−1 for Fe 2 N/rGO, respectively), excellent cycling performances (96.3% capacity retention over 1000 cycles and 97% over 2000 cycles at 1.0 A g−1 for Nb 4 N 5 /rGO and Fe 2 N/rGO, respectively). The effect of rGO is further investigated through quantitative kinetics analysis. This work demonstrates that the present versatile and expandable method can be developed to construct other high-quality nanocomposites for applications in energy storage, sensors, catalysis, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In-situ grown of clustered Nb 2 O 5 microsphere on rGO is achieved by a hydrothermal method. • The TMNs/rGO nanocomposites exhibit higher capacity, better rate and cycling performance than the pristine TMNs. • The Nb 2 O 5 @rGO (2-1) shows the optimized electrochemical performance. ga1 Compounding with carbonaceous materials is the most common method used to improve the performance of battery electrodes. In this work, the hydrothermal method is employed to synthesize the pure Nb 2 O 5 and Nb 2 O 5 @rGO composites. Meanwhile, the electrochemical performance of pure Nb 2 O 5 and Nb 2 O 5 @rGO composites as the anode for the lithium-ion battery is studied. The pure Nb 2 O 5 exhibits the cycling stability keeping 58% of the initial specific capacity after 1000 cycles at the current density of 1.0 A g−1 and the specific capacity of 120 mAh g−1 at the current density of 1.0 A g−1, but the Nb 2 O 5 @rGO composites all show the cycling stability keeping 100% of the initial specific capacity after 1000 cycles at the current density of 1.0 A g−1 and higher specific capacity than that of the pure Nb 2 O 5. When the amount of rGO in the Nb 2 O 5 @rGO composite is the largest, the specific capacity of Nb 2 O 5 @rGO composite is maximum (270 mAh g−1 at the current density of 1.0 A g−1). In addition, after introduction of rGO, the conductivity and rate performance of composite materials can also be improved. This work well proves that compounding with the rGO can improve the electrochemical performance of composite material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fe-Zn-N doped carbon could be derived from MF@PVA-FeCl 3 -ZnCl 2 gel. • ZnCl 2 benefits the formation of spherical morphology and larger surface area. • Zinc doping could produce more bimetallic-nitrogen and pyridone-N sites. • FeZnNC achieves high limiting current density and onset/half-wave potentials. • FeZnNC presents higher electrocatalytic stability than FeNC. Bimetallic-nitrogen doped carbons (bi-MNC) have attracted great attention as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts due to their favorable activation of the O-O bond on the dual metal sites. However, zinc based bi-MNC were seldom investigated because the zinc tended to be neglected at elevated temperature owing to its volatile nature. In this work, a zinc-iron–nitrogen doped porous carbon (FeZnNC) was facilely prepared by pyrolysis of PVA-FeCl 3 -ZnCl 2 gel coated commercial melamine foam. It is found that the zinc not only acted as porogen and dopant but also as structural regulator, leading to spherical morphology with more porous defects, larger surface area and more pyridone-N sites. The electrochemical measurements showed that the FeZnNC not only could achieve higher limiting current density of 5.97 mA/cm2, positive onset potential (0.965 V) and half-wave potential (0.873 V), but also display superior electrocatalytic stability than monometallic-nitrogen doped carbons (mono-MNC). Furthermore, the FeZnNC + RuO 2 powered rechargeable zinc-air battery could also present longer cycling life than that powered by mono-MNC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Molten salt method could promote the utilization of metal atoms. • Surface modification of nanospheres could sharply increase the active site density. • Bimetallic anchorage could balance the activity and stability of the catalyst. • The catalyst could deliver high onset potential (0.950 V) and limiting current density (6.898 mA/cm2). Previous studies have shown that introducing of an extra transition metal into the monometallic-nitrogen doped carbon (mono-MNC) could benefit oxygen adsorption, further weaken the O-O bond energy, and thus promote the electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Up to now, the bimetallic-nitrogen doped carbons (bi-MNC) were mostly prepared by direct pyrolysis of in-situ mixed precursors or pre-formed bimetal-organic frameworks (bi-MOFs), sub-micro sized products with encapsulated metal particles were commonly formed, leading to lower utilization of the metal atoms and less active sites density of the catalysts. In this paper, surface anchored iron-cobalt-nitrogen doped carbon (FeCoNC) hollow nanospheres were properly designed by "boiling" the monodispersed polypyrrole nanospheres in Fe, Co ions involved molten salt. Even a trace amount of Fe, Co atoms were anchored on the nitrogen doped carbon hollow nanospheres, the onset potential, half-wave potential and limiting current density could reach to 0.950 V, 0.841 V and 6.898 mA/cm2 respectively at low mass loading of 0.2 mg/cm2, demonstrating high utilization of the metal atoms and dense active sites of the catalyst. The Zn-air battery and direct ethanol fuel cell tests also revealed that the FeCoNC hollow nanospheres could present high stability in both non-oxidizing and oxidizing alkaline conditions. The surface decoration of bimetallic atoms on nitrogen doped carbon nanospheres through molten salt "boiling" method provides an effective way to prepare superior electrocatalysts for ORR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The as-fabricated ZTO/rGO nanocomposite-based LIC delivers a maximum energy density of 204 Wh kg−1 and ultrahigh power density of 67,500 W kg−1, which is expected to be an alternative energy storage device in the future. • Uniform Roselle-Like Zn 2 Ti 3 O 8 /rGO nanocomposite has been successfully synthesized. • The Zn 2 Ti 3 O 8 /rGO-based LIC can deliver a maximum energy density of 204 Wh kg−1. • The Zn 2 Ti 3 O 8 /rGO-based LIC exhibits an ultrahigh power density of 67500 W kg−1. • The LIC device exhibits excellent cycling performance in a high voltage of 4.5 V. To satisfy the sharp increasing demands of consumer and portable electronic devices, lithium ion capacitors (LICs) are required to provide higher energy and power densities. In view of this, herein, we report a feasible and controllable method to prepare uniform Roselle-like Zn 2 Ti 3 O 8 /reduced graphene oxide (ZTO/rGO) nanocomposite for application as anode of LIC. The results indicate that a compact interface is formed between ZTO and rGO through O(ZTO) − C(rGO) bonds, which can significantly enhance electron transport kinetics. As expected, the ZTO/rGO nanocomposite displays a high reversible specific capacity of 560 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and 300 mAh g−1 at 2.0 A g−1 with superior rate capability. More remarkably, for the first time, the ZTO/rGO nanocomposite-based LIC is designed and fabricated, which delivers a high energy density of 204 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 112.5 W kg−1, and ultrahigh power density of 67500 W kg−1 with an energy density of 54.6 Wh kg−1. Moreover, the device can retain 76% of the capacity after 1000 cycles at 1.0 A g−1. The ZTO/rGO-based LIC is expected to be an alternative energy storage device in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]