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• The vibration characteristics of gear defects under resonance condition is studied. • A method of gear defect detection based on tuning resonance was proposed. • A new gear defect feature extraction algorithm is proposed. • The algorithm is helpful to identify the gear defect features under non-tuned state. • Gear defect features are more obvious and easier to extract under resonance state. Detection of micro-cracks before assembling has always been a challenge in gear defect detection. A mature detection method of micro-cracks is not available. Due to the complex detection environment and large production of gears, it's urgent to develop a rapid and accurate detection method of gear micro-cracks. It's the key to separate and extract weak vibration signals accurately under complex disturbances in gear defect detection. In this study, vibration characteristics of gear defects under resonance conditions were firstly explored and a detection method of gear micro-cracks was proposed based on tuned resonance. Based on the amplification effect of tuned resonance on the peak frequency spectrum of gear vibration, meshing frequency and sideband frequency characteristics of the gear defect signal spectrum were experimentally investigated. The amplitudes of gear meshing frequency and its harmonic meshing frequency in the signal frequency domain diagram were higher and the surrounding sideband frequency components were clearer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Coating and single crystal are two common strategies for cobalt-free nickel-rich layered oxides to solve its poor rate performance and cycle stability. However, the action mechanism of different modification protocols to suppress the attenuation are unclear yet. Herein, the Li 2 MoO 4 layer-coated polycrystalline LiNi 0.9 Mn 0.1 O 2 (1.0 %-Mo + NM91) and single crystal LiNi 0.9 Mn 0.1 O 2 (SC-NM91) are prepared to investigate this difference, respectively. By focusing on the interior of particles, the relationship between structure evolution and electrochemical behavior is systematically studied, and the intrinsic mechanism of coating/single-crystallization modifications on suppressing the attenuation is clarified. The results show that microcracks in LiNi 0.9 Mn 0.1 O 2 (NM91) are the main culprit leading to the rate capability decay, and the coating can effectively prevent the radial diffusion of microcracks from the center to surface, inhibiting the generation of surface side reactions. Therefore, the coating has a more advantage in improving the rate performance at 5.0C, the discharge capacity of 1.0 %-Mo + NM91 (130.6 mAh/g) is 7.9 % higher than that of SC-NM91 (121.0 mAh/g). In contrast, the single-crystallization can effectively prevent the formation of intergranular cracks arising from the anisotropic stress in NM91, which causes the severe cycle degradation. Correspondingly, the grain boundary-free SC-NM91 shows superior cyclability. The capacity retention rate of SC-NM91 (80.8 %) at 0.2C after 100cycles is 6.3 % higher than that of 1.0 %-Mo + NM91 (74.5 %). This work concludes the effect difference of different modification methods on enhancing the electrochemical performance, which provides theoretical and technical guidance for the optimized and targeted modification design in the cobalt-free high nickel cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A putative novel virus was identified in Agastache rugosa in China and tentatively named "Agastache rugosa-associated varicosavirus" (ARaVV). The nearly complete genome sequence of ARaVV was obtained through RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and subsequent RT-PCR. The ARaVV genome consists of two negative-sense single-stranded RNA segments that are 6428 and 3862 nucleotides (nt) in size, respectively. RNA1 encodes a large polymerase (L), and RNA2 encodes a putative nucleocapsid protein (N), protein 2 (P2), and protein 3 (P3). The L protein shared the highest amino acid (aa) sequence identity (51.3%) with Erysimum virus 1 (EryV1, BK061766.1). The N, P2, and P3 shared the highest aa sequence identity (33.1%, 14.0%, and 24.2%) with Leucanthemum virus 1, Raphanus virus 1, and Spinach virus 1, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on amino acid sequences of the L protein showed that ARaVV clustered in a clade with the varicosaviruses, indicating that ARaVV is a putative new member of the genus Varicosavirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-voltage LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 materials with working voltage of 4.7 V vs. Li/Li+ can be used in lithium-ion batteries to meet the demands of high-voltage applications. However, these materials tend to undergo capacity degradation with cycling, and exhibit low coulombic efficiency. The redox reactions of the transition metals in LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 are related to voltage plateaus, which have an important influence on the electrochemical performance of lithium-ion batteries. In this work, we investigated the effects of two voltage plateaus for LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 cathode (4.0 V vs. Li+/Li and 4.7 V vs. Li+/Li) on the capacity degradation and coulombic efficiency, through the charging of half-cells to different cut-off potentials. We find that the redox reactions of manganese at the 4.0 V plateau play a negligible role in the capacity loss, while the increase in manganese content in the cathode material can significantly affect the coulombic efficiency. By contrast, when the cell was charged to cut-off potentials ≥4.8 V with a plateau at 4.7 V for nickel, the cell capacity degraded rapidly. Interestingly, when the cells were charged to 5.0 V, the content of P, F, Ni, and Mn increased with the thickness of the SEI film, indicating accelerated decomposition of the electrolyte due to the contribution of nickel. Thus, this work verifies the dependence of the capacity degradation and coulombic efficiency on the voltage plateau, and provides important information for further investigation of the effect of voltage plateaus on the characteristics and behavior of cathode materials. • Cells charged below 4.7 V with a 4.0 V plateau show high capacity retention. • The 4.7 V plateau with Ni contribute to most of the capacity but rapid capacity loss. • High manganese content expressed by charging time degrade the coulombic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore the application of sewage sludge ash (SSA) as a substitute for light-burnt magnesium oxide (LBM) in the preparation of magnesium oxysulfate cement (MOSC), in order to achieve the harmless treatment of SSA and improve the performance of MOSC. By adjusting the SSA dosage, a series of MOSC samples were prepared, and their setting time, compressive strength, water resistance, and heavy metal leaching rates were then systematically evaluated. Additionally, their crystal phase composition, relative content, and microstructure were characterized using XRD, TGA, FTIR, and SEM in order to elucidate the mechanism by which SSA affects the properties of the MOSC. The results indicate that the addition of SSA prolongs the setting time of MOSC and reduces its compressive strength. However, pozzolanic SiO 2 in SSA can hydrate with MgO to form magnesium-silicate-hydrate gel, effectively improving the water resistance of MOSC. In particular, when SSA replaces 30 % of LBM, MOSC not only meets the heavy metal leaching standards for Class IV surface water in China, but also has a compressive strength of up to 67 MPa and a significant improvement in water resistance by 44 %. This study not only opens up new avenues for the harmless treatment of SSA, but also provides scientific basis and practical reference for optimizing the water resistance of MOSC. • A small amount of SSA can effectively improve the early compressive strength of MOSC. • SSA reacts with MOSC to form M-S-H gel to improve its water resistance. • Using SSA enables more durable MOSC with reduced environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the higher delithiation capacity, Li 5 FeO 4 (LFO) can be used as sacrificial prelithiation additive to compensate the initial capacity loss caused by the formation of solid electrolyte interphase in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, the extremely poor air stability and severe phase transition after Li+ deintercalation make it difficult for LFO to be applied in prelithiation engineering practice. Herein, the residual alkali layer generated on the LFO due to air exposure is directly converted into a Li 3 PO 4 layer by a one-pot solid–liquid reaction. The as-obtained surface phosphorylated LFO (LP-LFO) ensures high air stability and effective prelithiation capability. Introducing only 3 wt% LP-LFO to the LiFePO 4 /Li half-cell can maximally replenish the active Li+ loss and the initial coulombic efficiency, displaying a 9.9 % increase in the initial charge capacity. Moreover, the Li 3 PO 4 coating enables LP-LFO to be a fast ionic conductor, not only inhibiting the phase transition of LFO, but also improving the electronic and ionic conductivity of the electrode, which is confirmed by the complementary tests of galvanostatic intermittent titration technique and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, as well as the structure and morphology characterization. As a result, the LiFePO 4 /Li half-cell with LP-LFO additive exhibits a higher rate capability (144 mAh g−1 at 2 C) and cycle stability (157 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 C). And a 17.4 % increase in the discharge capacity and a 12.7 % increase in energy density after 200 cycles for the 3 wt% LP-LFO-added LiFePO 4 ||graphite full cell is also achieved. This work provides a facile and efficient conversion strategy for the air-instable electrode additives, and furtherly broadens their industrial application prospect in high energy density LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixing polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution and ordinary Portland cement (OPC) to prepare cement-based phase change composite (CPCC) is an emerging paradigm that has attracted much attention. However, the non-setting problem of CPCC at high PEG content limits the improvement of its heat storage capacity. In this study, the setting process of CPCC was promoted by the modification of calcium aluminate cement (CAC), furthermore, its phase evolution, microstructure and thermo-mechanical properties were investigated by Rietveld quantization, SEM, DSC and conductometer. The results show that monocalcium aluminate from CAC reacts with gypsum from OPC to accelerate the formation of ettringite, thus shortening the setting time of CPCC. Alternatively, the excess aluminum ions inhibit the hydration of alite, thereby reducing the compactness of CPCC. A looser microstructure means a larger pore diameter and porosity, the former reducing the confining effect of pores on PEG, resulting in an increase in latent heat, but the latter increases the thermal conduction path, resulting in a decrease in thermal conductivity. Nevertheless, the mechanical strength of CPCC increases with the increase of CAC content, which is inferred to be due to the increased content of high-strength AFm and strätlingite. When the CAC content is increased from 0 wt% to 40 wt%, the setting time of CPCC is shortened by 86.0 %, the latent heat and 28d compressive strength are increased by 71.3 % and 50.2 %, respectively. This study provides a methodological and theoretical reference for improving the paradigm of CPCC. • Mixing PEG solution and OPC prepare cement-based phase change composite (CPCC). • The hydration process and microstructure of CPCC doped with CAC are studied. • The setting progress of CPCC is analyzed based on its phase evolution. • The thermo-mechanical properties of CPCC are discussed based on its microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon(Si)-based anodes exhibit higher energy density than traditional graphite anodes but suffer from significant volume changes during lithiation/delithiation, destabilizing the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) and reducing cycle stability. This study explores the effect of 1,3,6-hexane trinitrile (HTCN) on mitigating Si@C electrode expansion. The inclusion of HTCN modifies the original solvation structure of Li+, and the HTCN additive undergoes preferential coordination with Li+ because its binding energy with Li+ is larger than that of ethylene carbonate (EC). This lowers the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the HTCN-containing solvation structure, promoting preferential reduction decomposition on the anode surface. This process increases inorganic Li 3 N formation and produces a rich carbon-organic SEI film, effectively reducing electrolyte decomposition and Si@C anode expansion from 72.98 % to 4.46 %. Adding 1 % HTCN to Si@C/Li half-cells enhances capacity retention to 72.4 % after 100 cycles at 0.2C, significantly outperforming cells without HTCN (50.9 %). This study provides a new idea for constructing high-performance SEI films to inhibit electrode expansion by adjusting the solvation structure of Li+. •HTCN preferentially coordinates with Li+, altering the solvation structure. •The STD+1 % HTCN electrolyte preferentially reduces to form Li(PF 6) 1 (HTCN) 3. •1 % HTCN addition boosts SEI's inorganic Li 3 N, enhancing Li+ diffusion regulation. •HTCN boosts carbon-rich components, reducing expansion and interfacial cracking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-Hermitian skin effect(NHSE) describes a unique non-Hermitian phenomenon that all eigen-modes are localized near the boundary, and has profound impact on a wide range of bulk properties. In particular, topological systems with NHSE have stimulated extensive research interests recently, given the fresh theoretical and experimental challenges therein. Here we propose a readily implementable scheme for achieving NHSE with band topology in ultracold gases. Specifically, the scheme realizes the one-dimensional optical Raman lattice with two types of spin-orbit coupling (SOC) and an additional laser-induced dissipation. By tuning the dissipation and the SOC strengths, NHSE and band topology can be individually controlled such that they can coexist in a considerable parameter regime. To identify the topological phase in the presence of NHSE, we have restored the bulk-boundary correspondence by invoking the non-Bloch band theory, and discussed the dynamic signals for detection. Our work serves as a guideline for engineering topological lattices with NHSE in the highly tunable environment of cold atoms, paving the way for future studies of exotic non-Hermitian physics in a genuine quantum many-body setting. The non-Hermitian skin effect comprises of boundary localised eigenmodes and has been realised in a range of 1D systems such as photonics and metamaterials. Here, the authors achieve the same effect in a quantum many-body setting using ultra-cold gases and, by tuning the strength of the spin orbit coupling, realise a non-trivial band topology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc-ion hybrid capacitors (ZIHCs), promising for energy storage, encounter challenges such as mismatched positive and negative electrode capacities. Addressing this, increasing the thickness of positive electrode proves effective. However, traditional thick electrodes show an extended ion diffusion paths, which slows reactions and decreasing charge-discharge efficiency. Innovations in electrode structures have been achieved through 3D printing technology with an "embedded" composite material of activated carbon and graphene oxide, creating grids with varying layers to explore the relationship between layer number and capacitor performance. Density Functional Theory (DFT) simulations confirm the crucial role of oxygen functional groups on graphene oxide in enhancing storage capacity, with these findings supported by excellent electrochemical performance in tests. Precise control of electrode structures through 3D printing optimizes ion transport pathways, achieving a high specific capacity of 0.92 mAh cm−2 at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, maintaining 86.4 % cycle stability after 8,000 cycles. These results underscore the potential of 3 D printing to advance electrode design and suggest new directions for research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the numerical analyses of the indoor air temperature of the earth building located in dry-hot and dry-cold area in order to evaluate the effects of the passive design parameters on the indoor environment and then determine the optimal values of the design parameters. Firstly, a short-term monitoring was performed in an existing earth building, aiming to validate the numerical building model developed by using an advanced simulation software EnergyPlus. Then a series of regional studies on the effect of building parameters on indoor environment of the earth building were investigated and the simulated results indicated that four design parameters, i.e. building orientation, window to wall area ratio, projection factor of window shading and external wall thickness, exhibit the distinctly impacts on the indoor thermal environment in winter and summer. Next, a back propagation (BP) neural network model with ten neurons in the hidden layer was established using Matlab R2016a to predict the indoor environment, and the degree discomfort hours (DDH) in winter and summer were calculated as the output data. Finally, the itemized intensive scanning technique was used to successively select the values of the passive parameters in their range and the predicted results indicated that the optimal passive parameters are 6°east of south, 18.20 %, 0.66 and 643 mm, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surficial residual alkali is a key factor that leads to aggravated phase transition and decay in cobalt-free high-nickel cathode. In this paper, we develop a one-step in-situ modification technique to convert the residual alkali on the LiNi 0.9 Mn 0.1 O 2 (NM91) surface into Li 2 MoO 4 coating. As a fast ionic conductor, Li 2 MoO 4 coating not only facilitate Li+ diffusion, but also inhibits the transition from layered to rock salt phase on the cathode surface. Moreover, the multi-aperture architecture formed in the conversion promotes the high-valent Mo enter-into the lattice and realizes the gradient doping of Mo4+ through thermodynamic diffusion. Due to the pillar effect, Mo doping increases c-axis spacing, mitigates cation mixing, and reduces the irreversible H2-H3 phase transition. As a result, both the Li+ diffusion kinetics and thermodynamic stability are improved. Consequently, the as-prepared Mo modified NM91 exhibits an increased capacity retention from original 62.3–75.6 % (100 cycles, 0.2 C) and enhanced rate capability of 131.96 mAh g−1 at 5.0 C. This work provides a facile "reducing alkali" technological process, and lays foundation for the material design and performance optimization of high energy density cathodes in lithium-ion batteries. • Cobalt-free high nickel LiNi 0.9 Mn 0.1 O 2 cathode material was synthesized, and LiNi 0.9 Mn 0.1 O 2 was modified by doping and coating synergistically by one-step method to achieve a discharge capacity of 131.91 mAh g−1 at 5 C rate (LiNi 0.9 Mn 0.1 O 2 is only 77.7 mAh g−1) and a capacity retention rate of up to 75.6 % after 100 cycles at 0.2 C (LiNi 0.9 Mn 0.1 O 2 is only 62.3 %). • The mechanism of synergistic modification on the interfacial side reaction and structural stability of cobalt-free high nickel materials was clarified by characterization and DFT calculation. • The help of in-situ alkali reduction process to improve the stability of cobalt-free high nickel cathode materials was studied in a pioneering way, which laid a foundation for the correlation of interface stability and performance optimization of cobalt-free high nickel cathode materials, and had potential industrial application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes a novel thermal energy storage composite (TESC) with an alumina ceramic-based form-stable phase change material (FSPCM) as the phase-change aggregate and alkali-activated slag as the matrix material. FSPCM was prepared with alumina hollow sphere as the supporting material and paraffin as the phase change material (PCM). A series of tests were conducted to investigate the thermo-mechanical properties of the TESC. The results show that the phase transition peak temperature of FSPCM is 23.6 °C, the latent heat value is 69.8 J/g, and the paraffin adsorption mass fraction with respect to the alumina hollow sphere can be as high as 82.33%. As the mass fraction of FSPCM increases from 0% to 80%, the latent heat value increases from 0 J/g to 19.18 J/g, while the compressive strength can still be maintained above 24.04 MPa. The effective thermal penetration depth and the thermal energy storage performance of the TESC were mathematically analysed and experimentally tested. Meanwhile, the influence of FSPCM dosage on the mechanical strength of the TESC and the microstructure characteristics of the interface transition zone between FSPCM and the matrix were investigated. A mathematical model with a maximum relative error of 12.08% was established for predicting the 28-day compressive strength of TESC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In-situ techniques identify soluble products limit LiBOB utilization efficiency. • Mechanism revelation that AC pulse promotes LiBOB complete decomposition. • AC pulse generates a reinforced SEI rich in inorganics and cross-linking polymers. • Synchronized achieving "amount reduction and efficiency increase" of additives. Lithium bis(oxalate)borate (LiBOB) is well known for its protection of graphite anodes in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) by forming a passivated solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer. However, the underlying film-formation mechanism of LiBOB remains poorly understood, thereby its utilization efficiency has received little attention. In this work, we resort to in situ techniques to determine the crux of limiting the complete decomposition of LiBOB during the initial SEI formation lies in the BOB-derived soluble products which accumulate on the graphite surface and hinder its subsequent sustained decomposition. Then alternating current pulse (AC) discharge technology is employed to promote the self-decomposition of LiBOB. The complementation results of electrochemical/physical characterizations and theoretical calculations reveal that AC not only facilitates the diffusion of soluble products, but also promotes the synergy reaction of the soluble products with LiPF 6 , generating a smooth and uniform SEI rich in inorganics (LiF and Li x PO y F z) and B-containing cross-linking polymers. More significantly, a thinner SEI is obtained in AC by reducing the LiBOB amount in half. The as-resulted cell exhibits higher rate performance (280 mAh g−1 at 2 C) and better cycling stability (320 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 1 C, 98 % capacity retention), synchronously achieving "amount reduction and efficiency increase" of expensive additives. This study provides an entirely novel method for reinforcing the SEI films using external electric fields, and enriches the strategies for improving the performance of LIBs via interfacial engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent works show the promise for lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF4) as an electrolyte salt for lithium‐ion batteries. In this paper, LiBF4 is synthesized by a novel reaction between the as‐prepared anhydrous Li2SO3 and (C2H5)2O⋅BF3 in an aprotic solvent. The moisture sensitivity and water‐removing method of LiBF4 materials which has been dried under vacuum for 2 h at different temperature, is studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements. Results show that almost all of the adsorbed water would be removed at above 65 °C. With the increase of drying temperature, crystal water will decrease slowly, and almost disappear completely at 170 °C. However, due to the thermal decomposition of LiBF4, LiF and BF2OH impurities are formed as the temperature reaches 165 °C. So, we determine that the proper drying temperature is 155 °C, though the trace water cannot be removed thoroughly. Besides, influences of trace water on the electrochemical performance of Li/MCMB half‐cell with LiBF4 as electrolyte salt has been investigated. Results show that discharge plateaus at about 1.5 V vs. Li/Li+ will be lengthened with the increase of water content. Subsequently, the so‐called solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) film will become thicker and more resistant, which leads to poor Li+ ion migration and bad cycling performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film in carbonate-based lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has been extensively studied, less is known about the formation of SEI due to the complexity and instability of interfacial chemical reactions between Li+ and solvent. This study presents new insights into the formation mechanism of SEI film on graphite anode in ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) co-solvent-based electrolytes. The potential-resolved in-situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technology and density functional theory calculations combined with multi-sweep cyclic voltammetry are utilized to confirm that EC prefers to solvate with Li+. Then, a large amount of Li+-EC and a small amount of Li+-DMC solvent molecules undergo solvent migration process and de-solvation at the electrode/electrolyte interface. It was found that Li+-DMC is preferentially de-solvation and reduced to form an unstable SEI film, while Li+-EC inhibits the reduction of DMC and turns the reduction process to be diffusion-controlled. This work provides a fresh perspective on the formation of SEI film by Li+-solvent interaction, which could guide the construction of a stable interface by regulating the Li+-solvation kinetic for high-performance LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preparing LiFePO 4 cathode from FeSO 4 ·7H 2 O waste residue, the by-product of TiO 2 production, can effectively reduce the LiFePO 4 cost and alleviate the environmental pollution problem. However, the inevitable Ti impurity may affect the structure and electrochemical performance of LiFePO 4. Based on the actual Ti content in FeSO 4 ·7 H 2 O waste residue, herein, we prepared the Ti-doped LiFePO 4 , which is expected to get the suitable Ti content. Importantly, Ti-doped with an appropriate amount can reduce the particle size of LiFePO 4 and shorten the migration distance of Li+ ions. Moreover, the impurity Ti as a dopant with an appropriate amount can modulate the band structures, improve the conductivity of LiFePO 4 and enhance the diffusion kinetics of Li+ ions. Hence, the sample with optimal Ti content (LFP-2) shows distinguished electrochemical performance with excellent rate capacity (93.5 mAh g−1 at 10 C) and stable long-term cycle performance (capacity retention of 94.9% after 300 cycles at 1 C with an initial capacity of 151.3 mAh g−1). This research is conducive to reducing the production cost of LiFePO 4 and solving the problem of environmental pollution. [Display omitted] • The effect of impurity Ti on LiFePO 4 is illustrated. • The sample with optimal impurity Ti content (LFP-2) endows the highest rate and cycle performance. • The result can be attributed to the diminution of particle size and the improvement of conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Formation of lif-rich cathode-electrolyte interphase via potentiostatic reduction. • The lif-rich CEI inhibits the corrosion of FSI− anion on aluminum collector. • The electrochemical performances of l -std-F reach the level of 1.0 m LiPF6-DEC/EC. The low concentration electrolyte shows the advantages of low viscosity and low cost, but the formation of porous and soluble organic cathode-electrolyte interphase (CEI) limits its performance. Herein, the electrochemical performance of the low concentration electrolyte of 0.45 M LiPF 6 ‑diethyl carbonate (DEC)/ ethylene carbonate (EC) (1:1, in volume ratio) is improved by 0.05 M bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) additive, aided by the antecedent process of potentiostatic reduction at a low potential of 1.5 V. Results show that LiFSI is preferentially reduced via breaking the structure of FSI− anion to form a robust LiF-rich CEI on the surface of LiFePO 4 (LFP) cathode, solving the problem that it is difficult to form inorganic LiF on the cathode surface. In the subsequent cycling of LFP/Li half-battery, the as-formed CEI inhibits the corrosion of aluminum collector, suppresses the excessive decomposition of the electrolyte and improves the diffusion of Li+, resulting in a much-enhanced cycle stability of the cathode. Therefore, the cyclic performance of the LFP/Li half-battery using the modified low concentration electrolyte with the antecedent process of potentiostatic reduction is on a par with that using the standard electrolyte (1.0 M LiPF 6 -DEC/EC). Compared with the traditional electrolyte engineering of constructing a LiF-rich CEI by the direct oxidation defluorination of fluorinated anions, this strategy needs a lower reaction energy and can play a positive role at a lower reaction potential. This work provides an effective way to construct LiF-rich CEI which helps to improve the performance of low concentration electrolytes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complexes of lithium bis(oxalato)borate (LiBOB), lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiODFB) and lithium difluorobis(oxalato) phosphate (LiDFBOP) are the promising additives for advanced lithium ion batteries because of their high reactivity and easy synthesis, in which the changeable central atom and ligand bring diverse properties for salts. In this study, their structure-function relationship has been surveyed by exploring the reduction pathways. According to the analysis of experiments and quantum chemistry calculations, we have established that the steric-hindrance effect of ligands is the key effect on the bond-broken of these lithium salts. Specifically, more oxalate ligands are beneficial to the breaking of C–O and the bond of the central atom (M) with O atom, resulting in CO and CO 2 release as well as the generation of MO 2 -type soluble products. The as-generated MO 2 -type soluble products undergo a further self-aggregate process to form macromolecular complexes. In contrast, fewer oxalate ligands just encourage the bond breaking of the M − O bond, leading to CO 2 release and the generation of MF 2 -type soluble products. In addition, the universal promoting effect of soluble products on ethylene carbonate decomposition is verified. These results offer theoretic support for the molecular design of advanced functional chelae lithium salts. • Steric-hindrance effects of ligands affect complex salts decomposition mechanism. • More ligands always lead to the prior C–O bond break in oxalic acid rings. • Fewer ligands always lead to the prior break of the bond between central atoms and O. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Link between thermodynamic evolution and electrochemical properties is revealed. • Oxygen vacancies reduce the migration barrier of transition metals. • Dynamic changes in interfacial properties are monitored by the new techniques. • Activation of inert Mn is more susceptible to high temperatures than oxygen release. Li-rich manganese-based (LRM) cathode materials are known as one of the most promising cathode materials for new-generation lithium-ion batteries. At present, exploring the complex voltage decay mechanism of LRM is the main task to promote its commercialization. Herein, the structural evolution and transition metal valence state change of LRM during different reaction stages under different temperatures are discussed, and the mechanism of voltage decay is finally determined based on the electrochemical properties. The results show the evolution of irreversible thermodynamic structure is the fundamental cause leading to voltage decay of LRM cathode, and it worsens with increasing temperature. The early activation of inert Mn, multiple phase transitions, migration of transition metals to the surface, anisotropy of internal valence states caused by partial valence failure and severe interfacial reactions are all strong proofs of the above views. In summary, the reason for voltage decay is revealed by investigating the sensitivity of the LRM cathode materials to temperature. This work not only provides strong evidence for the mechanism of the voltage decay, but also points out the direction to modification design for achieving future commercialization of LRM cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) suffering from severe performance degradation because of the unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on the anode at low temperature restricts their practical applications. Herein, lithium difluorophosphate (LiDFP) as the additive is introduced into lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl) imide (LiFSI) based electrolyte to improve the electrochemical performance of graphite/Li half-cells at low temperature. Contrary to the popular perception, we reveal at low temperature that LiDFP attenuates the decomposition of LiFSI by competing the hydrolysis reaction with LiFSI to generate a SEI film rich in LiF and Li 3 PO 4 during prolonged cycling, rather than preferential decomposition. Additionally, the possible reaction equations and the interaction mechanism between LiDFP and LiFSI are proposed by combining in situ electrochemical impedance electrochemical (PRIs-EIS) tests, spectroscopic characterization techniques and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. It is demonstrated that the strong binding energy between LiF (from the decomposition of LiFSI) and LiDFP makes LiDFP easier deposit on the electrode surface. This work demonstrates the synergistic role combining the complementary advantage of film-forming additives and main lithium salts to improve the interfacial stability of LIBs at low temperature. Additionally, it can also pave the new pathway for the design of low temperature electrolytes in LIBs. [Display omitted] • The synergy effect of additive LiDFP and LiFSI improves the interface stability. • The competitive hydrolysis reaction of LiDFP and LiFSI is elucidated. • The strong binding energy between LiF and LiDFP enables LiDFP easier deposit. • The stable and robust interface can avoid the aggregation of organics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] LiBOB–SL/DMC electrolyte has good compatibility with LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 cathode. [•] It is an attractive electrolyte for 5V high voltage lithium-ion batteries based upon LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 cathode. [•] It has characteristic of good stability against oxidative decomposition (5.3V, vs. Li/Li+) and satisfactory safety performance. [•] When used in LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4/Li cells, this electrolyte exhibits stable cycle performance, low cell resistance, and good rate performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Shape-stabilized phase change material (SSPCM) was prepared with paraffin and ceramsite. • A novel alkali-activated slag-based thermal energy storage composite (ASTESC) was developed. • The thermo-physical properties of SSPCM and ASTESC were determined and analyzed. • Based on experimental test data, the thermo-mechanical properties of ASTESC are mathematically modeled. • The microstructure of ASTESC were investigated. In this paper, a novel alkali-activated slag-based thermal energy storage composite (ASTESC) was developed, which uses alkali-activated slag cementitious material as matrix to incorporate paraffin/ceramsite shape-stabilized phase change material (SSPCM)prepared by vacuum impregnation method. A series of tests were conducted to investigate the thermo-physical properties of SSPCM and ASTESC. The results indicated that the paraffin mass fraction of SSPCM can reach as high as 55.93%, and the peak phase change temperature and latent heat value of SSPCM is 29.0 °C and 56.13 J/g respectively. Compared with the ASTESC without SSPCM, after incorporating SSPCM, its thermal conductivity decreased by 25.17% to the maximum extent, and there was a significant linear relationship between the thermal conductivity of ASTESC and the mass fraction of SSPCM. Infrared thermal image analysis results show that ASTESC combined with SSPCM has good heat storage performance and temperature regulation ability. The mechanical strength test shows that ASTESC has excellent mechanical properties. Although the increase of SSPCM content will reduce the compressive strength of ASTESC, the results show that even when the mass fraction of SSPCM is as high as 60%, the 28-day compressive strength of ASTESC can still reach 47.3 MPa, which can meet the compressive strength requirements of general structural applications. From the investigation, it can be inferred that the ASTESC developed by this work is a promising thermal energy storage composite with structural and functional integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SO 2 derivatives and viscosity are important intracellular indicators, which are closely associated with various physiological metabolisms in organisms. The unregulated contents of SO 2 derivatives and viscosity in vivo commonly related to some disorders. In this work, probe JFT was developed relying on FRET and TICT mechanisms for the simultaneous detection of SO 2 derivatives and viscosity. JFT can rapidly detect viscosity levels with continuously enhanced fluorescence signals at 582 nm basing on the increasing of viscosity. Moreover, JFT was also sensitive to the changes of SO 2 derivatives level with a low detection limit (61.5 nM), rapid responding time (with 16 min), excellent selectivity and anti-interference capacity. JFT could detect bisulfite in real water, wine and food samples with high accuracy and recovery rate. Cell imaging indicated that JFT could monitor the endogenous SO 2 derivatives and viscosity in mitochondria. Importantly, JFT could recognize the cancer cells basing on the cell imaging difference of JFT in AGS and GES-1 cells., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) was first discovered on cucumber in the United Kingdom in 1935 (Ainsworth, 1935), and has spread worldwide except to Antarctica (Jones, 2021). Given its extensive damage, it is considered an important pathogen on global cucurbit plants and fruit crops. In China, CGMMV was first reported on pumpkin in Guangxi Province in 2003 (Qin et al., 2005), and occurred on 34 plants species across 23 provinces (Liu et al., 2016). Cynanchum rostellatum is a member of the family Apocynaceae. In July 2021, leaves of C. rostellatum exhibiting virus-like symptoms (yellowing, severe crinkling, deformation) were observed and collected in Liaoning Province, China. Aphids were also observed on the leaves and stems (Fig. S1) of the plants and were collected. Total RNA was extracted from diseased leaves following the CTAB method, followed by the depletion of ribosomal RNAs (rRNA) with TIANSeq rRNA Depletion Kit (Tiangen, China). The RNAs were, then processed into a DNBSEQ LncRNA-Seq library, and sequenced on the MGISEQ-2000 platform at BGI Genomics (Wuhan, China). A total of 106.98 M clean reads were obtained after data filtering using SOAPnuke software (BGI, China). The clean reads were assembled into contigs using CLC Genomics Workbench 11 (Qiagen, USA) and Trinity v2.0.6 (Haas et al., 2013). A contig (4,760 reads, average coverage:73.76) of 6,391 nucleotides was found to share the highest sequence identity (99.83%) with CGMMV isolate GDLZ (MK933286), irrespective of other virus-like contigs related to Polerovirus and Totivirus. Based on the genome of GDLZ isolate, seven specific primers (Table S1) were designed to amplify the full viral genomic sequences using a PrimeScriptTM One-Step RT-PCR Kit. Seven expected amplicons were obtained, cloned, and sequenced. The complete genome was determined to be 6,423 nucleotides (GenBank accession number OR854819) in length and designated as LNMJ isolate. LNMJ shared 96.8%-99.7% nucleotide sequence identities with CGMMV isolates from China. Phylogenetic analysis based on the complete genome sequences showed that LNMJ clustered together with CGMMV isolates hn (GenBank accession number KC851866), GDLZ (GenBank accession number MK933286), and JD8 (GenBank accession number KM873784) from China. The specific primers LM-TJ-3F/3R were designed to determine the virus-symptom association for LNMJ, and all twelve symptomatic C. rostellatum plants collected from fields tested positive for LNMJ. Two out of six randomly selected aphids from the diseased plants also tested positive. To further prove its infectivity, LNMJ was inoculated mechanically onto ten healthy Nicotiana benthamiana plants, and the results indicated a high infection rate of 80% (8/10), at 30 days post-inoculation despite no distinct symptoms observed. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the natural infection of C. rostellatum plants with CGMMV. C. rostellatum is a widespread herb in China (Wei et al., 2019) and more surveys are needed to determine the distribution of CGMMV. The habitats of C. rostellatum span diverse agroecological zones, and thus our study underscores the potential spillover of CGMMV to neighboring crops as a significant risk.

A new cytorhabdovirus, tentatively named "chelidonium yellow mottle associated virus" (CheYMaV), was identified in Chelidonium majus with yellow mottle symptoms by high-throughput sequencing and RT-PCR. Its genome is 12,121 nucleotides in length and contains eight open reading frames (ORFs) in the order 3'-N-P'-P-P3-M-G-P6-L-5'. Amino acid sequence comparisons between the putative proteins of CheYMaV and the corresponding proteins of other cytorhabdoviruses showed that it shares the highest sequence similarity with Trifolium pratense virus A (TpVA, MH982250) and Glehnia littoralis virus 1 (GllV1, BK014304), but with sequence identity values below the species demarcation threshold for cytorhabdoviruses (< 80%). Phylogenetic analysis showed that CheYMaV is most closely related to TpVA and GllV1. CheYMaV should therefore be considered a new member of the genus Cytorhabdovirus. This is the first report of a cytorhabdovirus identified in Chelidonium majus., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Austria, part of Springer Nature.)

The highly excited super-Tonks-Girardeau (sTG) gas was recently observed to be extremely stable in the presence of a weak dipolar repulsion. Here we reveal the underlying reason for this mysterious phenomenon. By exactly solving the trapped small clusters with both contact and dipolar interactions, we show that the reason lies in the distinct spectral responses between sTG gas and its decaying channel (bound state) when a weak dipolar interaction is present. Specifically, a tiny dipolar force can produce a visible energy shift for the localized bound state, but can hardly affect the extended sTG branch. As a result, the avoided level crossing between two branches is greatly modified in both location and width in the parameter axis of coupling strength, leading to a more (less) stable sTG gas for a repulsive (attractive) dipolar force. These results, consistent with experimental observations, are found to robustly apply to both bosonic and fermionic systems.

Quartet superfluid (QSF) is a distinct type of fermion superfluidity that exhibits high-order correlation beyond the conventional BCS pairing paradigm. In this Letter, we report the emergent QSF in 2D mass-imbalanced Fermi mixtures with two-body contact interactions. This is facilitated by the formation of a quartet bound state in vacuum that consists of a light atom and three heavy fermions. For an optimized heavy-light number ratio 3:1, we identify QSF as the ground state in a considerable parameter regime of mass imbalance and 2D coupling strength. Its unique high-order correlation can be manifested in the momentum-space crystallization of a pairing field and density distribution of heavy fermions. Our results can be readily detected in Fermi-Fermi mixtures nowadays realized in cold atoms laboratories, and meanwhile shed light on exotic superfluidity in a broad context of mass-imbalanced fermion mixtures.

The formation of a compact and stable cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) film is a promising way to improve the high voltage resistance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, challenges arise due to the corrosion of hydrogen fluoride (HF) and the dissolution of transition metal ions (TMs) in harsh conditions. To address this issue, researchers have constructed an anion-derived CEI film enriched with LiF and LiPO 2 F 2 soluble product on the surface of LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 (LNMO) cathode in highly concentrated electrolytes (HCEs). The strong binding of LiF and LiPO 2 F 2 generated an inert LiPO 2 F 2 soluble product interface, which inhibited HF corrosion and maintained the spinel structure of LNMO, contributing to a capacity retention of 92% after 200 cycles at 55°C in the resulting cell with a soluble LiPO 2 F 2 -containing CEI film. This new approach sheds light on improving the electrode/electrolyte interface for high-energy LIBs., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2023 The Authors.)

Background: Human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) have the potential to differentiate into vascular endothelial cells (VECs), but their differentiation rate is low and the mechanism involved is not clear. The small molecule pathway controls the phenotype of fibroblasts by activating cellular signaling pathways, which is a more convenient method in the differentiation strategy of HDFs into VECs., Methods: In this study, HDFs were treated with the different doses of CPP ((E)-4-(4-(4-(7-(diethylamino)-2-oxo-2H-chromene-3-carbonyl) piperazin-1-yl) styryl)-1-methylpyridin-1-ium iodide), and the mRNA and protein levels of HDFs were detected by qPCR, Western blot, flow cytometry and immunofluorescent staining. The matrigel assays, acetylated-LDL uptake and angiogenesis assays of chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and hindlimb ischemia model of nude mice were performed to evaluate the functions of VECs derived from HDFs., Results: Here, we report that the small chemical molecule, CPP, can effectively induce HDFs to differentiate into VECs. First, we observed the morphological changes of HDFS treated with CPP. Flow cytometry, Western blot and qRT-PCR analyses showed that CPP effectively decreased the level of the HDFs-marker Vimentin and increased levels of the VEC-markers CD31, CD133, TEK, ERG, vWF, KDR and CDH5. Detection of the percentage of CD31-positive cells by immunofluorescent staining confirmed that CPP can effectively induce HDFs to differentiate into VECs. The results of Matrigel assays, DiI-ac-LDL uptake, angiogenesis assays on CAM and hindlimb ischemia model of nude mice showed that CPP-induced HDFs have the functions of VECs in vitro and in vivo. Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis showed that CPP induces HDFs to differentiate into VECs by promoting the expression of pro-angiogenic factors (VEGF, FGF-2 and PDGF-BB)., Conclusions: Our data suggest that the small chemical molecule CPP efficiently induces the differentiation of HDFs into VECs. Simultaneously, this new inducer provides a potential to develop new approaches to restore vascular function for the treatment of ischemic vascular diseases., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

The design of a functional electrolyte system that is compatible with the LiNi 0.8 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 O 2 (LNCA) cathode is of great importance for advanced lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In this work, chelated lithium salts of lithium difluoro(bisoxalato) phosphate (LiDFBOP) and lithium tetrafluoro(oxalate) phosphate (LTFOP) are synthesized by a facile and general method. Then, the complexes of LiDFBOP, LTFOP, and lithium difluorophosphate (LiDFP), all of which have a central phosphorus atom, were selected as the salt-type additives for the LiPF 6 -based electrolyte to improve the electrochemical performances of LNCA/Li half-batteries, respectively. The results of electrochemical tests, quantum chemistry calculations, potential-resolved in situ electrochemical impedance (PRIs-EIS) measurements, and surface analyses show that the interface property and the battery performance are closely associated with molecular structures of phosphorus-centered complex additives. It indicates that LiDFP with the P═O bond can significantly reduce the interfacial impedance of LNCA/Li half-batteries due to the increase of Li 3 PO 4 and the decrease of Li 2 CO 3 in the cathode electrolyte interface (CEI). While in LiDFBOP, according to the calculated vertical ionization potential (VIP), the two oxalate-chelated ligands bring about a bidirectional cross-linking reaction, which makes it preferential to be oxidized. This process is self-healing and can form a dense and stretched CEI, which is favorable to the cycle performance at the late stage. In contrast, the polymerization reaction will occur in one direction for LTFOP due to its lone oxalate ligand. Additionally, an unfavorable side reaction between LTFOP and EC has been proposed by the aid of Gibbs free energy calculation. This is a good explanation for the formation of the uneven and unstable CEI, as well as the continuous decomposition of the electrolyte in PRIs-EIS measurement. This work has an extensive applicability and practical significance not only for molecular designing of novel lithium salts, but also for the construction of a functional electrolyte system that is compatible with different electrode materials.

It is challenging to hydrothermally synthesize solution-processable MoS 2 , as the strong van der Waals force between MoS 2 nanosheets induces self-assembly of agglomerates. Here, we introduce poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) into the precursor to impede aggregate formation in the hydrothermal process. A hybrid MoS 2 /PEDOT:PSS (MP) hydrogel is formed due to the electrostatic interactions between the negatively charged MoS 2 and positively charged PEDOT chains. This hydrogel can be easily dispersed in water for subsequent solution processing such as vacuum filtration to form free-standing flexible films or extrusion 3D printing to create novel patterns. The MP film with a fracture strength of 18.59 MPa displays excellent electrochemical performance in both aqueous Na 2 SO 4 electrolyte (474 mF cm -2 ) and solid-state PVA-H 3 PO 4 electrolyte (360 mF cm -2 ). Flexibility and robustness can be evidenced by high capacitance retention rates of 94 and 89% after being repeatedly bent to 180° for 5000 cycles in aqueous and solid-state electrolytes, respectively.

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved process in eukaryotes that processes the turnover of intracellular substances. Atherosclerosis is a disease caused by multiple factors, it mainly occurs on the walls of large and medium blood vessels and atherosclerotic plaques form in the intima of the blood vessels. Hyperlipidemia is considered to be a very dangerous factor leading to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis. This chapter mainly introduces the key role of autophagy in hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis, that is, impaired lipophagy affects the degradation of triacylglycerol, cholesterol, etc., leading to hyperlipidemia in atherosclerosis. In patients, excessive levels of autophagy accelerate the rupture of atherosclerotic plaque. This chapter also describes the advances in the treatment of atherosclerosis and hyperlipidemia by targeted autophagy.