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To solve the slow kinetics of polysulfide conversion reaction in Li-S battery, many transition metal nitrides were developed for sulfur hosts. Herein, novel polyaniline-coated porous vanadium nitride (VN) microrods were synthesized via a calcination, washing and polyaniline-coating process, which served as sulfur host for Li-S battery exhibited high electrochemical performance. The porous VN microrods with high specific surface area provided enough interspace to overcome the volume change of the cathode. The outer layer of polyaniline as a conductive shell enhanced the cathode conductivity, effectively blocked the shuttle effect of polysulfides, thus improving the cycling capacity of Li-S battery. The cathode exhibited an initial capacity of 1007 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, and the reversible capacity remained at 735 mAh g−1 over 150 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CdMoO 4 nano-octahedrons were successfully prepared using a one-pot hydrothermal method, and then decorated with Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs). Tests of the sensing performances confirmed the superior sensing properties of the Ag@CdMoO 4 sensor. The sensor exhibited the strongest response value of 140.1 at 260 °C and a shorter response/recovery times (15 s/8 s) for 100 ppm triethylamine (TEA) gas compared with other detected gases. The detection limit for TEA gas was 10.6 ppb. The sensor also exhibited excellent stability. Favorable octahedrons-like nanostructure, higher relative percentage of the O ads , high catalytic activity of metal elements, and electron sensitization effect of Ag NPs jointly improved gas-sensing performances. The Ag-decorated CdMoO 4 nano-octahedron sensor has great potential for the accurate and rapid detection of TEA gas with a strong sensing response. [Display omitted] • CdMoO 4 nano-octahedrons were first synthesized using a one-pot hydrothermal method, followed by the decoration of Ag NPs. • Gas sensor based on Ag-decorated CdMoO 4 nano-octahedron exhibited highly selective and sensitive toward triethylamine vapor. • The improved sensing performances were attributed to structure, high catalytic activity, and electron sensitization effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hierarchical Au-decorated SnO 2 (Au@SnO 2) microflowers with a porous structure were successfully synthesized. The preparation process involves in a hydrothermal method, calcination treatment, as well as modification. The hierarchical structure consisted of a large number of porous, uniform nanosheets. Excellent gas-sensing performances were demonstrated by the gas sensors fabricated using Au@SnO 2 microflowers, for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In particular, for the accurate and fast detection of formaldehyde, the 2%Au-decorated SnO 2 microflowers sensors showed a strong sensing response (76.5) for formaldehyde (100 ppm) at 140 °C, approximately three times higher than that (28.2) observed for the pure porous SnO 2 microflowers. The response and recovery times (10 s/16 s) were shorter than those (12 s/25 s) of the pure SnO 2 , respectively. The detection limit for the 2%Au@SnO 2 sensor was 19.03 ppb. The sensing mechanism of Au@SnO 2 sensors was also investigated. Favorable porous 3-dimensional structure, high catalytic activity, and electron sensitization effect of Au nanoparticles (NPs) improved the gas-sensing performance. Furthermore, the catalytic activity of Au NPs was maximized due to their uniform distribution on the surface of each porous SnO 2 nanosheet. The Au-decorated SnO 2 microflowers sensors have great potential for the accurate, fast, and highly sensitive response detection of formaldehyde gas. Porous 2%Au@SnO 2 microflowers sensors exhibit a highest response (76.5) and low detection limit (19.03 ppb) at 140 °C for 100 ppm formaldehyde. [Display omitted] • Porous Au@SnO 2 microflowers were prepared using a hydrothermal method, calcination treatment and Xe irradiation. • 2%Au@SnO 2 sensor exhibited superior sensing performance for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). • The porous structure, abundant oxygen vacancies, and Au catalysis caused the superior sensing behaviors of 2%Au@SnO 2 sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Porous Zn3Mo2O9 microflowers assembled with cross-linked nanosheets are synthesized using a facile hydrothermal method combined with calcination. • Porous flower-like microstructures are constructed by numerous cross-linked nanosheets as building blocks. • Gas sensor based on porous Zn3Mo2O9 microflowers exhibits good sensing performances for volatile organic gases (VOCs), especially for the high selectivity of ethanol gas. • The larger available surface area, favorable hierarchical flower-like microstructure assembled by cross-linked nanosheets, larger pore size, and higher relative percentage of the OC and OV, and oxidative catalytic activation of metal elements all jointly contribute to superior sensing performances. Porous Zn 3 Mo 2 O 9 microflowers assembled with cross-linked nanosheets were synthesized using a facile hydrothermal method combined with calcination. Compared to pure MoO 3 nanorod sensor, the Zn 3 Mo 2 O 9 sensor exhibited a stronger response of 58.3 toward 100 ppm ethanol at 220 °C, with a shorter response/recovery times (10 s/14 s). The excellent stability and repeatability of the Zn 3 Mo 2 O 9 sensors were also demonstrated. The detected limit for the ethanol vapor was as low as 29 ppb. The superior ethanol sensing properties were attributed to favorable porous microflowers assembled by cross-linked nanosheets, higher porosity, large specific surface area, higher relative percentage of the O C and O V , and oxidative catalytic activation. This was advantageous for providing abundant surface active sites for the adsorption of gas molecules, as well as accelerating the oxidation of more ethanol molecules between oxygen species and ethanol gas. This study provides practical application for detecting alcohol gases. Porous flower-like Zn 3 Mo 2 O 9 microstructures consisting of uniform cross-linked nanosheets were synthesized using a facile hydrothermal method combined with calcination. The porous Zn 3 Mo 2 O 9 microflowers sensors presented a higher response (58.3), shorter response–recovery times (10 s/14 s), and lower working temperature (220 °C) for 100 ppm ethanol gas. The Zn 3 Mo 2 O 9 microflowers sensors also showed good responses toward other alcohol gases such as isopropanol, and methanol. The superior ethanol sensing properties were attributed to favorable porous microflowers assembled by cross-linked nanosheets, higher porosity, larger specific surface area, higher relative percentage of the O C and O V , and oxidative catalytic activation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the long-term efficacy of globus pallidus internus (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the treatment of craniofacial dystonia (Meige syndrome) and investigated the correlation between the volume of tissue activated (VTA) in the GPi and each subregion and movement score improvement. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 13 patients with drug-refractory Meige syndrome who were treated with GPi DBS. The pre- and postoperative Burke–Fahn–Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS) scores were compared. The relationships between the preoperative baseline variables and improvement in the BFMDRS-Movement (BFMDRS-M) score were analyzed. LEAD-DBS software was used for the three-dimensional reconstruction of the GPi and implanted electrodes. The correlations between the GPi-VTA and score improvement were analyzed. The average follow-up period was 36.6 ± 11.0 months (18–55 months). At 3 months after the stimulation and the final follow-up visit, the improvements in the BFMDRS-M score were 58.2 and 54.6%, and the improvements in the BFMDRS-Disability (BFMDRS-D) score were 53.6 and 51.7%, respectively. At the final follow-up visit, the improvements in the BFMDRS-M scores of the eye, mouth, and speech/swallowing were significant (P < 0.001). Age was an independent predictor of improvement in the BFMDRS-M score after DBS (P = 0.005). A decrease in the BFMDRS-M score was significantly positively correlated with the GPi-VTA (r = 0.757, P = 0.003). GPi DBS is an effective method for treating drug-refractory Meige syndrome. LEAD-DBS software can be used as an effective aid for visualization programming after DBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Porous SnO 2 microflowers consisting of uniform nanosheets modified by Pt NPs were synthesized. • It involves flower-like SnSe 2 self-sacrificing template hydrothermal method and followed by a reduction strategy. • Porous Pt-modified SnO 2 microflowers exhibit superior sensing performance forvolatile organic gasses (VOCs), especially formaldehyde gas. • The larger available surface area, favorable hierarchical flower-like nanostructure assembled by nanosheets, larger pore size, and larger proportion of oxygen vacancies and adsorption-state oxygen species, and spillover effect of Pt catalysts contributed to the enhanced gas-sensing behaviors. Porous SnO 2 microflowers consisting of uniform nanosheets modified by Pt nanoparticles were synthesized using a self-sacrificing template followed by a reduction strategy. The Pt@SnO 2 , SnO 2 –Se, and SnO 2 –S samples were characterized using a series of techniques. The gas-sensing behaviors of the samples toward volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were studied. The Pt@SnO 2 sensors exhibited superior gas-sensing performance for formaldehyde gas. The Pt@SnO 2 sensors presented a stronger response (100.2), shorter response–recovery times (14 s/23 s), and lower working temperature (200 °C) for 100 ppm formaldehyde gas. The Pt@SnO 2 sensors also showed excellent responses toward other VOCs, such as 100 ppm ethanol (82.5), acetone (73.9), and isopropanol (62.1). The gas-sensing mechanism of the Pt@SnO 2 sensors was examined. The larger available surface area, favorable hierarchical flower-like nanostructure assembled by nanosheets, larger pore size, and larger proportion of oxygen vacancies and adsorption-state oxygen species, smaller crystallite size, and spillover effect of Pt catalysts contributed to the enhanced gas-sensing behaviors of Pt@SnO 2 sensors. Overall, the synthetic strategy for flower-like SnO 2 nanostructures can be applied widely. Porous SnO 2 microflowers consisting of uniform nanosheets modified by Pt NPs were synthesized using a self-sacrificing template followed by a reduction strategy. When used as a sensing material, the Pt@SnO 2 sensors presented a stronger response (100.2), shorter response–recovery times (14 s/23 s), and lower working temperature (200 °C) for 100 ppm formaldehyde gas. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc sulfide@reduced graphene oxide composites with a three-dimensional (3D) network-like framework were prepared through a simple solvothermal reaction. Numerous ultrasmall ZnS nanoparticles make up the composites with being well attached on both sides of reduced graphene oxide. The ZnS@reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites show remarkable electrochemical behaviors for lithium-ion batteries as anode materials. They deliver an outstanding specific capacity of 1130.5 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 after 200 cycles. Reversible specific capacities of 480.9 mAh g−1 and 742.7 mAh g−1 can be maintained at 1000 mA g−1 as well as 2000 mA g−1, respectively. The outstanding electrochemical performance is mainly ascribed to the reduced graphene oxide in the nanocomposites. The 3D network-like framework could provide a high surface area with numerous active sites. It not only promotes the fast diffusion of the electrons and ions, but effectively accommodates the volume-expansion during the lithium ion insertion/extraction process. Thus, the superior electrochemical performance enables the nanocomposites to be a desirable anode for lithium ions battery in the coming years. Image 1 • A special nanostructured ZnS@rGO composite was developed. • It mainly involves accessible dipping and hydrothermal process. • ZnS@rGO composite anode exhibits high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is ascribed to well combination of rGO and ZnS nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shuttle effect and slow redox reactions in Li-S battery limit its commercial application. Herein, TiN nanotubes with N-doped carbon coating (TiN/N-C NT) were obtained via MoO 3 nanorod template-assistant hydrothermal method and followed by polydopamine coating and carbonization/nitriding. When used as sulfur host, the tubular structure buffers the volume change in lithiation process and shortens Li+ transfer route. Consequently, the TiN/N-C NT cathode exhibits a high capacity of 1010.3 mAh g−1 over 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1. It provides a low capacity decay rate of 0.057 % per cycle over 500 cycles at a high current density of 1.0 A g−1. This study provides a promising method for preparing high-performance Li-S battery. • Special TiN nanotubes coated with N-doped carbon layer were developed. • It involves template-assistant hydrothermal method, PDA coating and carbonization/nitriding. • TiN/N-C nanotubes exhibit high stable capacity and superior rate performance. • High performance is due to thier hollow structure and strong LiPSs chemisorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduced graphene oxide@nickel oxide (NiO) composites were prepared through a simple hydrothermal reaction combined with a heat treatment. The reduced graphene oxide@NiO composites are composed of NiO nanosheets uniformly attaching on both sides of cross-linked reduced graphene oxide. Some favorable electrochemical performances in specific capacity, cycling performance, and rate capability are achieved using the porous nanocomposites as an anode for lithium-ion batteries. And the reversible specific capacity can reach up to1023 mAh g−1 at 400 mA g−1 after 200 cycles. A full cell consists of a commercial LiCoO 2 cathode and the reduced graphene oxide NiO@-3 nanocomposites anode, is able to hold a high capacity of 772 mAh g−1 at 400 mA g−1 after 200 cycles. The three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide plays a key role in enhancing the electrical conductivity of the electrode materials; and it effectively prevents the NiO nanoparticles from dropping off the electrode and buffers the volume variation during the discharge-charge process. The reduced graphene oxide@NiO nanocomposites present a great potential to be a promising electrode material in the near future for lithium-ion batteries. Image 1 • NiO nanosheets anchoring on rGO composite was developed. • It involves immersing and hydrothermal process followed by thermal treatment. • The hierarchical rGO@NiO anodes exhibit high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is ascribed to the special hierarchical rGO@NiO nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Co 9 S 8 @MoS 2 core-shell nanostructure anchored on rGO was developed. • It involves two-step hydrothermal reaction. • The Co 9 S 8 @MoS 2 /rGO composites exhibit high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is ascribed to the special hierarchical core-shell nanostructure. Abstract Co 9 S 8 @MoS 2 core-shell nanoparticles anchored on both sides of reduced graphene oxide (Co 9 S 8 @MoS 2 /rGO) were synthesized via hydrothermal reaction. The core-shell composites were used as an anode material and demonstrated enhanced electrochemical performance with high capacity, capacity retention, cycling stability, and rate capability during cycling tests. The nanocomposites deliver a reversible capacity of 2014.5 mAh g−1 at a high rate of 0.3 A g−1 with a capacity retention efficiency of 82.8% after 200 cycles. The reduced graphene oxide-based three-dimensional framework of the core-shell structure can reduce the internal resistance of the whole electrode, facilitate more Li+ ion insertion and extraction from the crystal structure, and relieve the strain caused by volume change during the lithiation/delithiation process. The electrochemical behaviors could make the composites a great potential anode material for lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Hierarchical MoS 2 microplates, consisting of numerous crosslinked nanosheets, are successfully synthesized using a self-sacrificial template method. MoO 3 microplates (synthesized using a solution method) are used as the self-sacrificial template in the solvent thermal sulfidation process, resulting in the formation of MoS 2 microplates. The resulting hierarchical structure possesses numerous active sites and a large surface area. As an anode material for LIBs, the hierarchical MoS 2 microplates, both before and after the thermal treatment, demonstrate reversible and high capacity, and good rate capability. In addition, the energy storage performance of the MoS 2 microplates is found to be significantly improved after thermal treatment. The annealed MoS 2 microplates deliver a high specific capacity of 1220.8 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.1 A g−1 and a high capacity retention of 84.8% (of the initial capacity) over 130 cycles. The high capacity and good rate capability suggest that the as-prepared hierarchical MoS 2 microplates are a promising anode material for LIBs. Highlights • Hierarchical MoS 2 microplates were developed. • Quality of hierarchical MoS 2 microplates was improved after thermal treatment. • Hierarchical MoS 2 microplates exhibit high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is ascribed to the hierarchical nanostructure and carbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract A sandwich-structured ZnCo 2 O 4 @reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites acquired through an accessible dipping and hydrothermal process followed by heat treatment, exhibit ascendant lithium-ion storage properties. Highlights • A special sandwich-nanostructured ZnCo 2 O 4 @rGO composite was developed. • It involves accessible dipping and hydrothermal process followed by heat treatment. • The sandwiched ZnCo 2 O 4 @rGO anodes exhibit high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is ascribed to the special sandwiched ZnCo 2 O 4 @rGO nanocomposite. Abstract A stereo-structured ZnCo 2 O 4 @reduced graphene oxide (ZCO@rGO) nanocomposite was prepared by an adsorption process combined with a hydrothermal process and calcination. Three-dimensional (3D) rGO was used as a template, and ZCO nanoparticles were anchored uniformly and compactly on both sides of the rGO. In half cells, the nanocomposite exhibits decent electrochemical characteristics, including a high cycling capability of 1613 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1 over 400 cycles. In addition, when matched with a commercial LiCoO 2 cathode, the ZCO@rGO//LiCoO 2 full cell also delivers favorable electrochemical properties, including a capacity of 1589 mAh g−1 over 140 cycles at 100 mAh g−1, making it a prospective candidate for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A NiO@rGO nanocomposite is prepared by a freeze-drying method combined with heat treatment. The morphology and structure are analyzed through X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectra, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results clearly show that NiO nanoparticles are uniformly anchored on the surface of the rGO nanosheet. The gas-sensing performance of the nanocomposite is also investigated to detect hydrogen. The NiO@rGO sensor exhibits good gas-sensing performance with high sensitivity, fast response, good reversibility, and selectivity toward hydrogen. The relative response of the sensor to 1% hydrogen is 0.64, the response time is 28 s, and the recovery time is 142 s. The improved sensing performance is due to the effective electron transfer between the NiO nanoparticles and rGO nanosheet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Micro heat pipe array-based BIPVT module enables efficient heat utilization. • A novel model of the BIPVT module and energy supply system was established. • Highly efficient combination of BIPVT and heat pump utilization is achieved. • Summarized the energy-saving features of BIPVT building in different seasons. • The novel BIPVT buildings achieve nearly zero energy standards. Building integrated photovoltaic–thermal (BIPVT) technology is an efficient form of solar energy utilization, which realizes self-energy supply and holds good development prospects. In this paper, a novel BIPVT module based on micro heat pipe array and BIPVT near-zero energy building are proposed. A matching multi-energy complementary energy supply system is also proposed for this building. The building and energy supply system models were built using TRNSYS. The load characteristics of BIPVT buildings were studied by analyzing the heat transfer process of BIPVT components. The energy-saving rate of the building was also calculated using the method of near-zero energy building evaluation index. The accumulated cooling load and heating load of the buildings throughout the year show that those of the BIPVT buildings are 8.6% higher than those of the benchmark building. Comparison of the energy consumption results shows that the annual cumulative energy consumption of the BIPVT building is 32.3% lower compared to the benchmark building's. In addition, 61.2% of the energy required for year-round refrigeration, heating, and electricity can be supplied by this system. The energy consumption index of the BIPVT building is 70.26 kWh / (m2 • a). Compared with the benchmark building, the BIPVT building energy saving rate is 76.6% and the building energy efficiency improvement rate is 32.3%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 2D porous ZnFe 2 O 4 nanosheets (ZnFe 2 O 4 NSs) were fabricated for use as sensing materials using a 3-stage process involving soaking, freeze-drying, and calcination steps. The ZnFe 2 O 4 NS-based sensor produced exhibited satisfactory sensing performance and selectively for acetone and achieved a response value of 64.9 at 50 ppm and response/recovery times of 23 and 9 s at operating temperature, which was far better than the performances of ZnO NSs and Fe 2 O 3 NSs (controls) produced using the same method. The excellent sensing properties of ZnFe 2 O 4 NSs were attributed to greater porosity, larger pore sizes, and higher proportions of oxygen-deficient and chemisorbed oxygen species. The study shows that the ZnFe 2 O 4 NS-based sensing material produced for the detection of VOCs, especially acetone, shows considerable promise. • 2D porous ZnFe 2 O 4 nanosheets were developed using 3D rGO as template. • It involves a 3-stage process including soaking, freeze-drying, and calcination steps. • The porous ZnFe 2 O 4 nanosheets exhibit superior sensing property for acetone vapor. • High performance is due to higher proportions of oxygen-deficient and chemisorbed oxygen species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design engineering of a hierarchical bimetallic composite anode is a critical part of the high-performance lithium-ion battery. This study developed a one-step sulfurization route to prepare hierarchical Cu 3 SnS 4 −Cu 2 SnS 3 hollow nanocapsules (CTS HNCs) using CuSn(OH) 6 nanorods as sacrificial templates. The final Cu 3 SnS 4 −Cu 2 SnS 3 /N-doped carbon hollow nanocapsules (CTS/N-C HNCs) were obtained by coating the hollow nanocapsules with polydopamine, followed by calcination. As an anode material, the CTS/N-C HNC electrode demonstrated a high capacity (827.8 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 over 150 cycles), superior long-cycling performance (409.1 mAh g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 over 500 cycles) and outstanding rate performance (average discharge capacity of 374 mAh g−1 at 5.0 A g−1). Hence, the CTS/N-C HNCs composites with a hollow structure, outer assembled nanosheets, and N-doped carbon layer are conducive to controlled volume changes during the intercalation/deintercalation process and accelerate the electron/Li+ transport. Briefly, this research provides a facile strategy for constructing CTS-based hierarchical composites, contributing to the further development of LIBs. • A special hierarchical hollow bimetallic sulfides Cu 3 SnS 4 −Cu 2 SnS 3 /N-C was developed. • It involves a sacrificial template sulfurization route and a carbon coating process. • Cu 3 SnS 4 −Cu 2 SnS 3 /N-C nanocapsules exhibit high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is due to bimetallic effect, hollow structure and N-carbon coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous flower-like tin oxide (SnO 2 ) structures were obtained using a hydrothermal method combined with a subsequent calcination and acid-washing process. The morphologies and crystal structures of the products were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller N 2 adsorption-desorption analyses. The process of inducing porosity begins with a flower-like nickel tin sulfur precursor. Thermal decomposition of this flower-like nickel tin sulfur precursor leads to an intimate mixture of porous flower-like NiO/SnO 2 hybrids. Porous SnO 2 flowers were obtained after removing the cubic phase NiO by an acid-washing process. Furthermore, the gas sensing properties of the as-prepared porous SnO 2 flowers to VOCs, such as ethanol, formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and acetone, were investigated. The porous SnO 2 flowers showed a good response and reversibility to some organic vapors, such as ethanol and formaldehyde. The sensing responses to 100 ppm ethanol and formaldehyde were 42.4 and 24.8, respectively. The sensors also exhibited a good response to benzene, toluene, methanol, and 2-propanol. The relationship between the gas-sensing properties and the microstructure of the as-prepared flower-like SnO 2 structures was also examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Au nanoparticle-modified porous TiO 2 (Au@TiO 2) nanospheres were prepared using a simple hydrothermal route followed by liquid reduction. Au NPs with a diameter of ~12 nm were well anchored on the surfaces of porous TiO 2 nanospheres by epitaxial growth as their crystal planes had similar spacings. The sensing behavior of Au@TiO 2 nanospheres was investigated using various organic vapors. Au@TiO 2 nanospheres show higher responses towards 100 ppm formaldehyde, acetone, ethanol, and isopropanol with respective response values of 45.2, 55, 29, and 50 at a working temperature of 220 °C. The response/recovery times of the Au@TiO 2 sensor for 100 ppm acetone vapor were 12 s and 13 s, respectively. These excellent sensing results indicate Au nanoparticle-modified porous TiO 2 nanospheres are promising sensing material for the accurate detection of toxic volatile vapors. [Display omitted] • Au nanoparticle-modified porous TiO 2 nanospheres were developed. • Au NPs were well anchored on porous TiO 2 nanospheres by epitaxial growth. • Porous Au@TiO 2 nanospheres exhibit superior sensing property for organic vapors. • High performance is due to the porous nanostructure and catalytic activity of Au NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterostructure of NiSe 2 /MnSe nanoparticles distributed evenly over cross-linked N-doped carbon nanosheets (NM@NCNs) were developed as anode materials via a hydrothermal strategy followed by an in situ selenization process for the first time. Benefiting from the sandwich structure, bimetallic effect and high conductivity of NCNs, the obtained NM@NCNs manifest excellent sodium storage properties. [Display omitted] • Heterostructure of NiSe 2 /MnSe nanoparticles distributed evenly over cross-linked N-doped carbon nanosheets was developed. • It involves a facile hydrothermal method followed by an in situ selenization process. • The NM@NCNs composite anode exhibited high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is due to bimetallic effect, sandwich structure and superior conductivity of NCNs. Heterostructure of NiSe 2 /MnSe nanoparticles distributed evenly over cross-linked N-doped carbon nanosheets (NM@NCNs) was developed as anode material via a hydrothermal strategy followed by an in situ selenization process. The anode delivered a high reversible capacity of 487 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 after 200 cycles and an excellent rate capacity of 269 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 10 A g−1. In particular, under −10 °C, the electrode still maintained a satisfactory rate capability for 271 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1. The advanced electrochemical performance is related with the following merits. First, NiSe 2 /MnSe nanoparticles as bimetallic selenide can offer a higher specific capacity than monometallic selenide. Moreover, the rich redox-active sites provided by NiSe 2 /MnSe can accelerate the electrochemical reaction. Second, cross-linked NCNs with high electronic conductivity can serve as a substrate, preventing nanoparticle agglomeration and alleviating the variations in volume. Third, NiSe 2 /MnSe heterostructure proved by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results can form lattice distortion, enhancing Na+ diffusion in the redox process. The possible electrochemical process was demonstrated by ex situ X-ray diffraction, and the Na+ diffusion rate of the NM@NCNs anode was calculated using the galvanostatic intermittent titration technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uniform and monodisperse porous TiO 2 nanospheres were synthesized by a hydrothermal method. Techniques of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) nitrogen adsorption–desorption, UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the structure and morphology of the products. The BET surface area of the porous TiO 2 nanospheres was calculated to be 26.1 cm 2 g −1 . In addition, the obtained porous TiO 2 nanospheres were used as catalyst to photodegrade methylene blue, Rhodamine B, methyl orange, p-nitrophenol, and eosin B. Compared to commercial TiO 2 powder, the as-prepared porous TiO 2 nanospheres exhibited higher catalytic activities due to their large surface areas and porous nanostructures. The photocatalytic reaction rate constant of the porous TiO 2 nanospheres in photocatalytic decomposition of methylene blue and Rhodamine B under simulated solar light were calculated as 0.0545 min −1 and 0.0579 min −1 , respectively. Moreover, the catalyst was demonstrated to have good stability and reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous nanoflower-like, micropancake-like and microflower-like Co 3 O 4 micro/nanostructures were synthesized by a template-free aqueous solution route combined with subsequent thermal treatment. Techniques of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis, and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the structure and morphology of the products. The experimental results show that three kinds of morphologies of cobalt precursors can be achieved by addition of ammonia at different temperatures. The corresponding Co 3 O 4 hierarchical micro/nanostructures were obtained after 500 °C calcinations. In addition, the obtained porous Co 3 O 4 hierarchical micro/nanostructures were used as catalyst to photodegrade Rhodamine B, methylene blue, p-nitrophenol, eosin B, and methyl orange. Compared with porous Co 3 O 4 micropancakes, the as-prepared porous Co 3 O 4 nanoflowers and microflowers exhibit higher catalytic activities due to their large surface areas and porous hierarchical structures. The photocatalytic reaction rate constant of the porous Co 3 O 4 nanoflowers in photocatalytic decomposition of Rhodamine B under UV light is calculated as 0.0828 min −1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Porous ZnO nanowires were obtained by a facile chemical solution route combined with subsequent calcination. Calcination of the precursors produced porous ZnO nanowires, which consist of numerous ordered nanocrystallites with high porosity resulting from the thermal decomposition of the as-prepared precursors, i.e., wire-like zinc hydroxide carbonate. Moreover, the nanostructures were characterized through X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller N2 adsorption–desorption analyses, among others. The BET surface area of the porous ZnO nanowires can be calculated to be 39.1m2 g−1. Furthermore, the gas sensing properties of the as-prepared porous ZnO nanowires were investigated using volatile organic compounds. Compared with the ZnO monocrystalline nanowires, the porous ZnO nanowires exhibited higher response with certain organic vapors, such as toluene, 2-propanol, and acetone. The responses to 100ppm toluene, 2-propanol and acetone were 29.1, 53.7, and 57.2, respectively, at a working temperature of 300°C. These results showed that the porous ZnO nanowires consisting of nanocrystallites are highly promising candidates for gas sensing applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Detecting volatile organic compounds is essential to improving the environment and human health. This study prepared a novel composite of hollow SnO 2 /ZnO cubes using a self-template hydrothermal method followed by a calcination process. The morphology and structure of the composites were characterized using a series of analysis techniques, and the formation mechanism of a hollow cube-like structure was explored. Compared to the hollow SnO 2 cube sensor, the hollow SnO 2 /ZnO cube sensor exhibited a strong response (148–100 ppm formaldehyde), fast response/recovery time (15 s/25 s), good linearity (R2 = 0.995), good repeatability, and excellent stability. The superior gas sensing property of the hollow SnO 2 /ZnO cubes was attributed to the combined advantages of hollow structures and heterojunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nanoparticles of Li[Ni1/3Co1/3Mn1/3]O2 with average diameter less than 100 nm are synthesized in the ethanol by a coprecipitation method. The sample is characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and charge–discharge test. The results show that the material has initial discharge capacity of 165.7 mAh g−1 in the voltage range of 3.0–4.3 V under a current density 0.2 C and excellent cyclability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Layered Li[Ni1/3Mn1/3Al1/3−x Co x ]O2 (0≤ x ≤1/3) cathode materials are synthesized by a solvent evaporation method. Although XRD shows that Li[Ni1/3Mn1/3Al1/3]O2 has no obvious impurity phase, it has poor electrochemical properties. To improve its capability, part of Al in Li[Ni1/3Mn1/3Al1/3]O2 compound is replaced by Co in this study. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and charge–discharge test. The results indicate that the introduction of Co has a large influence on the morphology, structure and electrochemical performances of the samples, which become more excellent with an increase of Co content in compounds. Meanwhile, the high-temperature behavior of the samples is also investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: LiFePO4/C composite was synthesized at 600°C in an Ar atmosphere by a soluble starch sol assisted rheological phase method using home-made amorphous nano-FePO4 as the iron source. XRD, SEM and TEM observations show that the LiFePO4/C composite has good crystallinity, ultrafine sphere-like particles of 100–200nm size and in situ carbon. The synthesized LiFePO4 could inherit the morphology of FePO4 precursor. The electrochemical performance of the LiFePO4 by galvanostatic cycling studies demonstrates excellent high-rate cycle stability. The Li/LiFePO4 cell displays a high initial discharge capacity of more than 157mAhg−1 at 0.2C and a little discharge capacity decreases from the first to the 80th cycle (>98.3%). Remarkably, even at a high current density of 30C, the cell still presents good cycle retention. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: LiFePO4/carbon composite was synthesized at 600°C for 4h in an Ar atmosphere by a stearic acid assisted rheological phase method using amorphous nano-FePO4 as the iron source. XRD, SEM and TEM observations show that the LiFePO4/carbon composite has good crystallinity, ultrafine and well-dispersed particles of 60–150nm size and in situ carbon coated on the surface of LiFePO4 crystallites. The synthesized LiFePO4/carbon composite shows a high discharge capacity of 160mAhg−1 and 155mAhg−1 at rates of 0.5C and 1C, respectively. Even at a high current density of 30C, the material still presents a discharge capacity of 93mAhg−1 and exhibits an excellent cycling performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Compounds LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 are prepared by adopting different carbonate, i.e., NaHCO3, NH4HCO3 and Na2CO3 under the same conditions, which results in the impressive differences in the morphology properties and electrochemical behaviors of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2. The microscopic structural features of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 are investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The electrochemical properties of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 are carried out by charge–discharge cycling tests and the electrochemical reactions during charge–discharge process are also investigated by the cyclic voltammetry (CV). Experimental results show that the microscopic structural features, the morphology properties and electrochemical performances are deeply related to the precipitators. In addition, the cyclic voltammetry indicates that the oxidation of nickel occurs by two steps Ni2+ →Ni3+ →Ni4+. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 is prepared by a rheological phase method. Homogeneous precursor derived from this method is calcined at 800°C for 20h in air, which results in the impressive differences in the morphology properties and electrochemical behaviors of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 in contrast to that obtained by a solid-state method. The microscopic structural features of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 are investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrochemical properties of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 are carried out by charge–discharge cycling test. All experiments show that the microscopic structural features and the morphology properties are deeply related with the electrochemical performances. The obtained results suggest that the rheological phase method may become an effective route to prepare LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 cathode materials for lithium battery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Three-dimensional nanostructured rGO@NiS nanocomposites are synthesized by a solvothermal process, and show an enhanced lithium-ion storage performance. • rGO@NiS composites with a favorable nanostructure were developed. • Synthesis process consists of accessible dipping and hydrothermal reaction. • rGO@NiS composite anode shows an improved reversible capacity and rate behavior. • Synergistic effect of NiS NPs and rGO contributes to the high performance. Reduced graphene oxide@nickel sulfide (NiS) composites are synthesized by a solvothermal method. Uniformly dispersed NiS nanoparticles with a size of 15∼25 nm are embedded to the surface of a three-dimensional (3D) reduced graphene oxide. The favorable 3D-framework with a large amount of pores has been characterized systematically. As a Li-ion battery anode, the reduced graphene oxide@NiS anode keeps a reversible capacity of 1328.7 mAh g-1 at 0.1 A g-1 after 120 cycles. Meanwhile, it shows an enhanced rate capability of 673.6 mAh g-1 at 1.0 A g-1. The enhanced reversible capacity and cycling stability is ascribed to the reduced graphene oxide and its unique 3D porous nanostructure. Furthermore, the existence of C‒S bonds make reduced graphene oxide and nickel sulfide in the composite combine better during the cycling process, and enhance their synergistic effect. Since that, the conductivity, volume-variation and active sites of the composites are greatly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiC-14 wt%TiC 0.4 and TiC-7.63 wt%Ti ceramics were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at a sintering temperature of 1600 °C and an applied pressure of 40 MPa. The impact of ex-situ addition and in-situ formation of vacancies on the microstructures and mechanical properties of TiC composites were investigated. The microstructures were analysed by XRD, SEM, EDS and TEM. The results reveal that TiC 1-x phases with different Ti/C ratios exist in the TiC-14 wt%TiC 0.4 ceramics, which have the same crystal structure and similar lattice parameters. In contrast, only a single phase of TiC 1-y exists in the TiC-7.63 wt%Ti ceramics. The introduced carbon vacancies not only lowered the sintering temperature, but also had a toughening effect on the material. At a sintering temperature of 1600 °C, the TiC-14 wt%TiC 0.4 and TiC-7.63 wt%Ti materials had densities of 98.5% and 99.2%, both materials exhibited excellent mechanical properties Vickers hardness and fracture toughness of 22.5 GPa, 5.2 MPa m1/2 and 23.5 GPa, 4.9 MPa m1/2, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Tin(IV) oxide@reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites are synthesized using a simple hydrothermal method. The structural and morphological characterizations indicate that the SnO 2 nanoparticles fully and homogeneously anchor on both sides of cross-linked reduced graphene oxide. As an anode material for lithium-ion batteries, the synergistic interaction between the SnO 2 nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide contributes to good electrochemical behaviors, which enhance the cycling performance and rate capability. For a half-cell, the SnO 2 @reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites as an anode material exhibits a high reversible capacity of 1149 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.2 A g−1, and a good capacity retention of 67.2% after 130 cycles. For a full-cell, it exhibits a capacity of 648 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.2 A g−1 after 200 cycles, and the cycling retention of capacity reached 63.5%. The excellent storage capability and cycling performance of lithium-ion batteries make the composite a promising anode material in the practical application of lithium-ion batteries. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • A special sandwich-nanostructured SnO 2 @rGO composites were developed. • It involves immersing 3D rGO in a solution followed by hydrothermal process. • The sandwiched SnO 2 @rGO anodes exhibit high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is ascribed to the special sandwiched SnO 2 @rGO nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Desulfurization efficiency and average gas sulfur content at outlet of CSB and LVSB. [Display omitted] • An adjusted mesoscale drag model was used to simulate the desulfurization process in 3D LVSB. • The average interphase slip velocity of LVSB is 26.5 % higher than of CSB. • The LVG can intensify the semi-dry flue gas desulfurization process in spouted beds. • Desulfurization efficiency can be enhanced by introduction of LVG (3.1 %). A longitudinal vortex generator was introduced into spouted beds to improve the heat and mass transfer rates in a semi-dry desulfurization process. The flue gas desulfurization processes in a 3D conventional spouted bed (CSB) and a spouted bed with a longitudinal vortex (LVSB) were simulated and verified experimentally. The simulation results show that the generator can strengthen the gas-particle-slurry contact in the spouting and annular areas. The average interphase slip velocities of the gas-particle and gas–liquid in the LVSB were 26.6 and 26.5 % higher than that in the CSB. The generator also increased the liquid temperature and interphase mass transfer rates in the spouted beds. The simulated desulfurization efficiencies of the CSB and LVSB were 77.75 and 80.85 %, respectively, which indicate the addition of a generator is beneficial for promoting the semi-dry desulfurization process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) technology has obvious advantages in the preparation of high entropy alloys (HEAs) with high mechanical properties, but the mechanism of their magnetic enhancement is not clear. In this work, HEAs with high saturation magnetization (Ms) and excellent mechanical properties were designed and prepared. The properties of Fe 9.4 Co 6.7 Ni 6.6 Mn 0.9 V 0.9 HEA were optimized by adding Cu element, and the main phase of the HEAs was (face-centered cubic) FCC phase. The addition of Cu element mitigates the distortion of the FCC phase, resulting in an increase in the intensity of Ms value for the alloy from 118 emu/g to 143.7 emu/g. However, this also leads to a slight reduction in yield strength while still maintaining a high level at 1132 MPa. Theoretical calculations based on first principles indicate that the magnetic enhancement of these alloys is facilitated by an increase in the atomic magnetic moments of their ferromagnetic constituents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • BN nanocrystals merely and evenly anchored on carbon nanosheets were developed. • BN@CNs were synthesized via a mixing process and an in-situ nitriding strategy. • The BN/CNs-2/S cathode exhibits high stable capacity and high rate performance. • High performance is due to catalytic effect of BN and excellent conductivity of CNs. Sandwich structure of boron nitride (BN) nanocrystals wrapped with uniform interconnected N-doped carbon nanosheets (N-CNs) is prepared as a lithium-sulfur battery cathode material to overcome the sluggish redox reaction and severe "shuttle effect" of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs). The BN@N-CNs-2/S presents outstanding rate capacity of 528 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1, with extended cycle life and sluggish capacity decrease rate of 0.026% per cycle at 2 A g−1 for more than 1000 cycles. Such high performance is a result of the unique sandwich structure of BN nanocrystals evenly compounded on N-CNs, which leads to uniform distribution of active sulfur species and effectively alleviates volume expansion in the cycling process. The BN@N-CNs sandwich structure possesses the key advantages of high conductivity of N-CNs, strong chemisorption and catalytic effect for LiPSs, which is demonstrated by theoretical calculations and cyclic voltammetry curves of the symmetrical cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The erosion of immersed tube is studied by experimental and simulation methods. The results of the ink removal experiment show that the severe erosion is located on both sides of the lower part of the immersed tube. The dense discrete phase model (DDPM) method is adopted to simulate the erosion law of the immersed tube. The results show that the variation law of erosion rate with operating parameters is consistent with that of χ with operating parameters. A new dimensionless parameter of χ is defined to characterize the erosion state of immersed tube, which represents the ratio of particle flow characteristics to particle fluidization characteristics. Particle flow characteristics (M p) and particle fluidization degree (M g) are directly and inversely proportional to erosion rate respectively. In addition, the erosion rate of EA type elliptical immersed tube is proved to be 53.68% lower than that of circular immersed tube, which is obtained from the simulation results. [Display omitted] • The analysis on oily ink removal of the erodible paraffin immersed tube is carried out. • The erosion laws of immersed tubes are simulated by DDPM method. • A new dimensionless parameter is defined to analyze the erosion of immersed tube. • From the numerical simulation, the erosion rate of EA type elliptical immersed tube is 53% lower than that of the circular tube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are implicated in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury as modulators by shuttling diverse cargoes, including microRNAs (miRNAs). The current study was initiated to unravel the potential involvement of plasma-derived EVs carrying miR-130a-3p on myocardial I/R injury. Rats were induced with moderate endoplasmic reticulum stress, followed by isolation of plasma-derived EVs. Then, an I/R rat model and hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) cardiomyoblast model were established to simulate a myocardial I/R injury environment where miR-130a-3p was found to be abundantly expressed. miR-130a-3p was confirmed to target and negatively regulate autophagy-related 16-like 1 (ATG16L1) in cardiomyoblasts. Based on a co-culture system, miR-130a-3p delivered by EVs derived from plasma protected H/R-exposed cardiomyoblasts against H/R-induced excessive cardiomyoblast autophagy, inflammation, and damage, improving cardiac dysfunction as well as myocardial I/R-induced cardiac dysfunction and tissue injury. The mechanism underlying the functional role of EVs-loaded miR-130a-3p was found to be dependent on its targeting relation with ATG16L1. The protective action of EV-carried miR-130a-3p was further re-produced in a rat model serving as in vivo validation as evidenced by improved cardiac function, tissue injury, myocardial fibrosis, and myocardial infarction. Collectively, miR-130a-3p shuttled by plasma-derived EVs was demonstrated to alleviate excessive cardiomyoblast autophagy and improve myocardial I/R injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: LiNi1−x Co x O2 cathode material was prepared by a rheological phase reaction method with LiOH·H2O and Ni1−x Co x (OH)2 as starting materials. The mixture of reactants and a proper amount of water reacted to form a rheological precursor, and the dried precursor was calcined in flowing oxygen based on the results of thermogravimetric. The calcination temperature has a remarkable effect on the electrochemical performance of the samples. The sample calcined at 730°C for 6h has the best electrochemical properties. The cobalt content has significant effect on the electrochemical performance for LiNi1−x Co x O2 material. When x-value is less than 0.08, the first discharge capacities and capacity retentions decrease rapidly. The LiNi0.9Co0.1O2 material has the largest initial discharge capacity and the better electrochemical performance. This method is simple and effective for preparing cathode materials for lithium batteries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Alternative splicing allows many gene products to alter their biological functions. A bZIP-type transcription factor, OsABI5, undergoes alternative splicing. Two OsABI5 splicing variants were identified, designated OsABI5-1, and OsABI5-2 and their different expression patterns in tissues were analyzed. Despite a completely identical functional domain, OsABI5-2 could specifically bind to G-box element, but OsABI5-1 could not; the transactivation activity of OsABI5-1 was higher than that of OsABI5-2; the interaction strength of OsABI5-2 and OsVP1 was stronger than that of OsABI5-1 and OsVP1; indicating a different function in the regulation of downstream target genes. Complementation tests and ABA (abscisic acid) hypersensitivity of Arabidopsis transgenic lines revealed the redundant function of OsABI5 splicing variants in ABA signaling. The interaction between OsABI5-1 and OsABI5-2 was also confirmed. These results suggest that OsABI5 variants may have overlapping and distinct functions to fine tune gene expression in ABA signaling as transcription factors together with OsVP1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aquaporins are ubiquitous channel proteins that facilitate the transport of water across cell membranes. Most of aquaporins are represent in more than one tissues, but some of them performed highest in roots. They are believed to participate in water transport. DcRB7, a member of the aquaporin family, was isolated from somatic embryos of carrot and identified as a homologous gene of TobRB7. Further studies showed that the expression of DcRB7 was particular in carrot root. To investigate the transcription regulation of DcRB7, a 650-bp upstream sequence of DcRB7 was isolated by inverse PCR, and was fused to the β-glucuronidase (GUS) report gene. After the recombined vectors were transformed into tobacco, the expression pattern was performed by histochemical staining and the quantitative analysis of GUS activity. The results indicated that the c/s-acting element of DcRB7 gene directs GUS expression not only as root-specific but also as drought inducible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Two branching strategies are exhibited in crops: enhanced apical dominance, as in maize; or weak apical dominance, as in rice. However, the underlying mechanism of weak apical dominance remains elusive. OsWUS, an ortholog of Arabidopsis WUSCHEL (WUS) in rice, is required for tiller development. In this study, we identified and functionally characterized a low‐tillering mutant decreased culm number 1 (dc1) that resulted from loss‐of‐function of OsWUS. The dc1 tiller buds are viable but repressed by the main culm apex, leading to stronger apical dominance than that of the wild‐type (WT). Auxin response is enhanced in the dc1 mutant, and knocking out the auxin action‐associated gene ABERRANT SPIKELET AND PANICLE 1 (ASP1) de‐repressed growth of the tiller buds in the dc1 mutant, suggesting that OsWUS and ASP1 are both involved in outgrowth of the rice tiller bud. Decapitation triggers higher contents of cytokinins in the shoot base of the dc1 mutant compared with those in the WT, and exogenous application of cytokinin is not sufficient for sustained growth of the dc1 tiller bud. Transcriptome analysis indicated that expression levels of transcription factors putatively bound by ORYZA SATIVA HOMEOBOX 1 (OSH1) are changed in response to decapitation and display a greater fold change in the dc1 mutant than that in the WT. Collectively, these findings reveal an important role of OsWUS in tiller bud growth by influencing apical dominance, and provide the basis for an improved understanding of tiller bud development in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polysulfide shuttle phenomenon in the cycling process of lithium-sulfur (Li–S) batteries restricts their practical applications. Herein, polypyrrole (PPy) coated hollow cobalt manganate (CoMn 2 O 4) dodecahedrons were prepared via template method, which combines the advantages of manganese-based metal oxide and conductive polymer effectively. The CoMn 2 O 4 as bimetal oxides can trap the intermediate products and inhibit the dissolution of short chain polysulfides in the organic electrolyte. Moreover, the hollow dodecahedron structure provides enough space to alleviate volume change in the cycle process. Furthermore, the conductive PPy layer can enhance the conductivity of nanocomposite and suppress the shuttle effect in the electrolyte. The initial capacity of CoMn 2 O 4 /S@PPy cathode reaches up to 1407 mA h g-1 at 0.1 A g-1. The capacity retained ca.736 mA h g-1 at 0.1 A g-1 for 150 cycles and 659 mA h g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 when cycled 500 times, respectively, along with the Coulombic efficiency was over 99%. Owing to these outstanding electrochemical performances, the as-prepared nanocomposite is promising to be a superior sulfur host in the field of Li–S batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) nanostructures are used widely in acetone sensors, but pure MOS sensors usually have poor selectivity and low sensitivity. In this study, various Sn-doped Fe 2 O 3 (Sn-Fe 2 O 3) microflowers were obtained using FeOOH microflowers as precursors using a liquid hydrolysis reaction followed by a calcination process. Various characterization techniques verified the morphologies and composition of the products. The microflower-like 17.0 wt% Sn-Fe 2 O 3 possessed a specific surface area of 138.9 m2 g−1. Employed as a sensing material, the 17.0 wt% Sn-Fe 2 O 3 microflowers exhibited a strong response of 107.7 for 100 ppm acetone with short response/recovery times of 8/12 s. Furthermore, the 17.0 wt% Sn-Fe 2 O 3 microflower sensor displayed good selectivity and high stability for acetone vapor with a detection limit of 114 ppb. The in-situ Raman spectrum verified that the Sn-Fe 2 O 3 microflowers improved the adsorption of the acetone molecules, resulting in enhanced sensing performance. [Display omitted] • Sn-doped Fe 2 O 3 (Sn-Fe 2 O 3) microflowers were obtained using FeOOH microflowers as precursors. • It involves a liquid hydrolysis reaction followed by a calcination process. • The microflower-like 17.0 wt% Sn-Fe 2 O 3 exhibit superior sensing property for acetone. • High performance is due to the hierarchical structure, high specific surface area and Sn dopants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high melting point and the covalent bond between Ti and N made the titanium nitride matrix composites difficult to sinter using conventional sintering methods. TiN 0.3 and onion-like carbon (OLC) were used as starting materials for the preparation of TiN 0.3 /onion-like carbon composites under high pressure and high temperature (HTHP) of 5.0 GPa and 1100–1400 °C for 10 min. The phase formation, microstructure, and mechanical properties of TiN 0.3 composites with different contents of onion-like carbon were systematically investigated by XRD, SEM, and TEM. The experimental results showed that TiC 0.3 N 0.7 was formed by diffusion of TiN 0.3 with onion-like carbon due to the dual effect of high concentration of N vacancies and high pressure, and the onion-like carbon was gradually graphitized with increasing temperature. The composites of TiN 0.3 /5 vol% onion-like carbon sintered at 1200 °C possessed the optimum properties, with hardness of 15.2 GPa and fracture toughness of 3.9 MPa·m1/2. Compared with TiN composites prepared by conventional methods, the non-stoichiometric compound reduced the sintering temperature of the TiN composites. [Display omitted] • The OLC was used as a binding agent component. • The Vickers hardness of the sintered body was enhanced by the diamond. • A new method of forming TiC 0.3 N 0.7 by N vacancies in TiN 0.3 with OLC defects [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quick and efficient detection of low concentrations of hydrogen remains a challenge because of the stability of hydrogen. A sensor based on reduced oxide graphene functionalized with Pt nanoparticles is successfully fabricated using a freeze-drying method followed by heat treatment. The structure and morphology of the Pt@rGO nanocomposites are well analyzed by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The as-prepared Pt@rGO nanocomposites show excellent hydrogen gas sensing properties at a low working temperature of 50 °C. The sensitivity toward 0.5% hydrogen is 8%. The response and recovery times of the sensor exposed to 0.5% hydrogen are 63 and 104 s, respectively. The gas-sensing mechanism of Pt@rGO sensor is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallium oxide as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries has attracted attention because of its high specific capacity. As reported previously, N-doped carbon coated Ga 2 O 3 nanopapers exhibited a high discharge capacity of 477 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g−1. But the rate performance and cycling stability of the Ga 2 O 3 –based anode still need to be improved. Herein, Ga 2 O 3 nanotubes coated with N-doped carbon layers (Ga 2 O 3 /N-C NTs) were prepared using MoO 3 nanorods as sacrificial templates followed by a polydopamine coating and heat treatment process. The resulting tubular structure provided cavities for volume changes of the Ga 2 O 3 in the cycling process and shortened the migration path of Li ions and electrons. The N-doped carbon coated Ga 2 O 3 NTs delivered a capacity of 1185.3 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1 and outstanding stability of 535.5 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 1.0 A g−1. This study supplies a novel method for preparing Ga 2 O 3 anode materials to promote the performance of lithium-ion battery. • A special Ga 2 O 3 nanotubes coated with N-doped carbon layers was developed. • It involves a sacrificial template hydrothermal method and a carbon coating process. • Ga 2 O 3 /N-C nanotubes exhibit high stable capacity and superior rate performance. • High electrochemical performance is due to hollow structure and N-carbon coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiconductor metal oxide nanostructures with large specific surface areas and high porosity will enhance their gas-sensing performance. Here, cross-linked porous tin dioxide nanosheets were obtained using three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide as a template followed by an annealing process. The as-synthesized porous SnO 2 nanosheets were composed of nanocrystals with a mean diameter of ca. 7.6 nm. The products were characterized using a range of techniques. The sensing property of the cross-linked porous SnO 2 nanosheets for toxic organic vapors, such as ethanol, acetone, isopropanol, benzene, methylbenzene, methanol, and formaldehyde, were studied. The sensor showed a high response of 37.9 for 100 ppm acetone, making it a promising candidate as a practical detector of volatile organic compounds. [Display omitted] • A special cross-linked porous tin dioxide nanosheets were developed. • It involves a template solvothermal method and a subsequent annealing process. • The cross-linked porous SnO 2 nanosheets exhibit high sensing performance for VOCs. • High performance is due to cross-linked structure with small size nanocrystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High post-operative recurrence and poor prognosis are likely to be related to the infiltrative growth of the glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Objectives: The primary objective of this study is to investigate the possible synergistic effect of the combined treatment of gamma knife radio-surgery (GKRS) and gene therapy for GBM and secondary objective is to explore the role of GKRS for the temporal and spatial regulation of the gene expression. Materials and Methods: The study performed on 70 nude mice and randomly divided into seven groups. Subcutaneous injection of human GBM tumor cells (T98G) was carried out to establish the animal models. Various doses of liposome-mediated pcDNA3.1-Egr. 1p-p16 recombinant plasmid were transfected through intra-tumor injection. GKRS was scheduled following the plasmid transfection. Tumor volumes were measured every 4 days after the treatment. Subcutaneous tumor nodule specimens were collected to analyze the cell apoptosis and p16 gene expression using terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling staining and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Tumor volumes, levels of cell apoptosis and p16 gene expression were compared between groups. Results: Rates of tumor growth were significantly lower in the pcDNA3.1-Egr. 1p-p16 plasmid + GKRS groups than that in the remaining groups 28 days following the GKRS management. The p16mRNA expression was noted in both of the pcDNA3.1-Egr. 1p-p16 plasmid group and the pcDNA3.1-Egr. 1p-p16 plasmid + GKRS with marginal-dose of 20 Gy group. The level of messenger ribonucleic acid expression was higher in the pcDNA3.1.Egr. 1p.p16 plasmid + GKRS with the marginal-dose of 20 Gy group, with a markedly increased apoptotic and necrotic cells, than that in the pcDNA3.1-Egr. 1p-p16 plasmid group. Conclusions: In animal studies, pcDNA3.1-Egr. 1p-p16 in combination with GKRS is a preferable management option for the GBM to the sole use of GKRS or gene therapy. It may be a novel approach for the treatment of human patient with GBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A special porous CoMn 2 O 4 nanocubes was developed. • It involves a template precipitation method and a subsequent annealing process. • The CoMn 2 O 4 /S@PPy nanocubes exhibit high stable capacity and rate performance. • High performance is due to bimetallic effect, porous structure and PPy coating. [Display omitted] Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries suffer from the poor conductivity originated from sulfur and shuttle effect arisen from the polysulfides dissolution. Herein, cobalt manganate (CoMn 2 O 4) porous nanocubes coated with polypyrrole (PPy) as sulfur carrier are prepared using MnCO 3 nanocube template through a precipitation method and a subsequent annealing process. The unique approach can obtain porous CoMn 2 O 4 nanocubes with uniform morphology and abundant exposed active sites. The plentiful mesopores among the porous nanocubes are beneficial to accommodation of sulfur. In addition, the porous CoMn 2 O 4 nanocubes can trap polysulfides in the cycling process owing to the chemical bonds between CoMn 2 O 4 and polysulfides. Moreover, PPy coating severed as conductive layer not only enhances electrical conductivity of the cathode, but also confines polysulfides via the formation of N–Li–S bonds during cycling process. Therefore, the porous CoMn 2 O 4 /S@PPy nanocubes with 66.9% sulfur mass content delivered a capacity of 533 mAh g−1 over 500 cycles at 1 A g−1 with a capacity decay rate of 0.064% each cycle, and a Coulombic efficiency of 98%, suggesting the enhanced cycling performance of cathode. The facile template precipitation method combined with an annealing process contribute a new approach to synthesize unique porous CoMn 2 O 4 structure as sulfur carrier for Li–S batteries [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]