Tunable Interfacial Electric Field-Mediated Cobalt-Doped FeSe/Fe3Se4 Heterostructure for High-Efficiency Potassium Storage.

The interfacial electric field (IEF) in the heterostructure can accelerate electron transport and ion migration, thereby enhancing the electrochemical performance of potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). Nevertheless, the quantification and modulation of the IEF for high-efficiency PIB anodes currently remains a blank slate. Herein, we achieve for the first time the quantification and tuning of IEF via amorphous carbon-coated undifferentiated cobalt-doped FeSe/Fe3Se4 heterostructure (denoted UN-CoFe4Se5/C) for efficient potassium storage. Co doping can increase the IEF in FeSe/Fe3Se4, thereby improving the electron transport, promoting the potassium adsorption capacity, and lowering the diffusion barrier. As expected, the IEF magnitude in UN-CoFe4Se5/C is experimentally quantified as 62.84 mV, which is 3.65 times larger than that of amorphous carbon-coated FeSe/Fe3Se4 heterostructure (Fe4Se5/C). Benefiting from the strong IEF, UN-CoFe4Se5/C as a PIB anode exhibits superior rate capability (145.8 mAh g-1 at 10.0 A g-1) and long cycle lifespan (capacity retention of 95.1 % over 3000 cycles at 1.0 A g-1). Furthermore, this undifferentiated doping strategy can universally regulate the IEF magnitude in CoSe2/Co9Se8 and FeS2/Fe7S8 heterostructures. This work can provide fundamental insights into the design of advanced PIB electrodes.

A P2/P3 Biphasic Layered Oxide Composite as a High-Energy and Long-Cycle-Life Cathode for Potassium-Ion Batteries.

Layered transition metal oxides are extensively considered as appealing cathode candidates for potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) due to their abundant raw materials and low cost, but their further implementations are limited by slow dynamics and impoverished structural stability. Herein, a layered composite having a P2 and P3 symbiotic structure is designed and synthesized to realize PIBs with large energy density and long-term cycling stability. The unique intergrowth of P2 and P3 phases in the obtained layered oxide is plainly characterized by X-ray diffraction refinement, high-angle annular dark field and annular bright field-scanning transmission electron microscopy at atomic resolution, and Fourier transformation images. The synergistic effect of the two phases of this layered P2/P3 composite is well demonstrated in K+ intercalation/extraction process. The as-prepared layered composite can present a large discharge capacity with the remarkable energy density of 321 Wh kg-1 and also manifest excellent capacity preservation after 600 cycles of K+ uptake/removal.

KI-Assisted Formation of Spindle-like Prussian White Nanoparticles for High-Performance Potassium-Ion Battery Cathodes.

Prussian white (PW) is considered as a promising cathode material for potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) due to its low cost and high theoretical capacity. However, the high water content and structural defects and the strict synthesis conditions of PW lead to its unsatisfactory cycling performance and low specific capacity, hindering its practical applications. Herein, a template-engaged reduction method is proposed, using MIL-88B(Fe) as a self-template and KI as the reducing agent to prepare K-rich PW with low defects and water content. Furthermore, the hierarchical porous spindle-like morphology can be inherited from the precursor, furnishing sufficient active sites and reducing the ion diffusion path. Consequently, when applied as a KIB cathode material, spindle-like PW (K1.72Fe[Fe(CN)6]0.96·0.342H2O) manifested remarkable potassium storage properties. Notably, a full cell assembled by the spindle-like PW cathode and graphite anode exhibited a large energy density of ∼216.7 Wh kg-1, demonstrating its huge potential for energy storage systems.

Chronic vagus nerve stimulation in patients with heart failure: challenge or failed translation?

Autonomic imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems contributes to the progression of chronic heart failure (HF). Preclinical studies have demonstrated that various neuromodulation strategies may exert beneficial cardioprotective effects in preclinical models of HF. Based on these encouraging experimental data, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been assessed in patients with HF with a reduced ejection fraction. Nevertheless, the main trials conducted thus far have yielded conflicting findings, questioning the clinical efficacy of VNS in this context. This review will therefore focus on the role of the autonomic nervous system in HF pathophysiology and VNS therapy, highlighting the potential reasons behind the discrepancy between preclinical and clinical studies.

Regulation of protein corona on liposomes using albumin-binding peptide for targeted tumor therapy.

Nanocarriers entering the body are usually coated by plasma protein, leading to a protein "corona" easily recognized by tissues and cells. Adjusting the composition of protein coronas may be an efficient way to change the properties and behavior of nanoparticles in vivo. In this study, we modified doxorubicin-loaded liposomes (Lip/DOX) with an albumin-binding domain (ABD) to prepare nanoparticles (ABD-Lip/DOX) that can specifically bind to albumin and form albumin-based protein coronas in vivo for targeted tumor therapy. The prepared liposomes were spherical with a particle size of about 100 nm. After incubating the liposomes with rat serum, the albumin content was eight times higher on ABD-Lip than on control liposomes. ABD-Lip significantly inhibited adsorption of IgG and complement activation in rat serum in vitro, while corona-coated ABD-Lip was internalized to a significantly greater extent than corona-coated control liposomes. In addition, ABD-Lip showed longer blood circulation time, higher tumor accumulation and greater antitumor efficacy than control liposomes in mice bearing 4 T1 tumors, while both liposome formulations showed similar biocompatibility. These results confirm that adjusting the component of protein coronas around nanoparticles can improve their therapeutic efficacy.

Uniform P2-K0.6CoO2 Microcubes as a High-Energy Cathode Material for Potassium-Ion Batteries.

Layered transition-metal (TM) oxides have drawn ever-growing interest as positive electrode materials in potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). Nevertheless, the practical implementation of these positive electrode materials is seriously hampered by their inferior cyclic property and rate performance. Reported here is a self-templating strategy to prepare homogeneous P2-K0.6CoO2 (KCO) microcubes. Benefiting from the unusual microcube architecture, the interface between the electrolyte and the active material is considerably diminished. As a result, the KCO microcubes manifest boosted electrochemical properties for potassium storage including large reversible capacity (87.2 mAh g-1 under 20 mA g-1), superior rate performance, and ultralong cyclic steady (an improved capacity retention of 86.9% under 40 mA g-1 after 1000 cycles). More importantly, the fabrication approach can be effectively extended to prepare other layered TM oxide (P3-K0.5MnO2, P3-K0.5Mn0.8Fe0.2O2, P2-K0.6Co0.67Mn0.33O2, and P2-K0.6Co0.66Mn0.17Ni0.17O2) microcubes and nonlayered TM oxide (KFeO2) microcubes.

Robust carbon nanotube-interwoven KFeSO4F microspheres as reliable potassium cathodes.

Orthorhombic iron-based fluorosulfate KFeSO4F represents one of the most promising cathode materials due to its high theoretical capacity, high voltage plateau, unique three-dimensional conduction pathway for potassium ions, and low cost. Yet, the poor thermostability and intrinsic low electronic conductivity of KFeSO4F challenge its synthesis and electrochemical performance in potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). Herein, we report, for the first time, judicious crafting of carbon nanotubes (CNTs)-interwoven KFeSO4F microspheres in diethylene glycol (DEG) (denoted KFSF@CNTs/DEG) as the cathode to render high-performance PIBs, manifesting an outstanding reversible capacity of 110.9 mAh g-1 at 0.2 C, a high working voltage of 3.73 V, and a long-term capacity retention of 93.9% after 2000 cycles at 3 C. Specifically, KFSF@CNTs/DEG microspheres are created via introducing CNTs into the precursors DEG solution at relatively low temperature. Notably, the strong binding of the ether groups in DEG retards the nucleation and growth of KFSF, leading to in situ formation of microspheres with CNTs interwoven within KFSF crystals, thereby greatly enhancing electronic conductivity of KFSF. Intriguingly, the remarkable electrochemical performance of KFSF@CNTs/DEG cathode is found to stem from the massively exposed (100) plane and uniform interpenetration of CNTs inside KFSF microsphere. More importantly, in situ X-ray diffraction and electrochemical kinetics study unveil outstanding structural stability and high K+ diffusion rate of KFSF@CNTs/DEG. Finally, the KFSF@CNTs/DEG//graphite full cell displays a large energy density of ∼243 Wh kg-1. Such simple route to KFSF@CNTs/DEG highlights the robustness of creating inexpensive CNTs-interwoven polyanionic cathodes for high-performance PIBs.

Synthesis of KVPO4F/Carbon Porous Single Crystalline Nanoplates for High-Rate Potassium-Ion Batteries.

With high theoretical capacity and operating voltage, KVPO4F is a potential high energy density cathode material for potassium-ion batteries. However, its performance is usually limited by F loss, poor electronic conductivity, and unsteady electrode/electrolyte interface. Herein, a simple one-step sintering process is developed, where vanadium-oxalate-phosphite/phosphate frameworks and fluorinated polymer are used to synthesize carbon-coated KVPO4F nanoplates. It is found that the V-F-C bond generated by fluorinated-polymer-derived carbon at the interface of KVPO4F/C nanoplates diminishes the F loss, as well as enhances K-ions migration ability and the electronic conductivity of KVPO4F. The as-synthesized KVPO4F/C cathode delivers a reversible capacity of 106.5 mAh g-1 at 0.2 C, a high working voltage of 4.28 V, and a rate capability with capacity of 73.8 mAh g-1 at the ultrahigh current density of 100 C. In addition, a KVPO4F/C//soft carbon full cell exhibits a high energy density of 235.5 Wh kg-1.

Scalable synthesis of Na2MVF7 (M = Mn, Fe, and Co) as high-performance cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries.

We demonstrate an economical polytetrafluoroethylene-assisted fluorination method to synthesize three binary sodium-rich fluorides Na2MVF7 (M = Mn, Fe, and Co). The optimal Na2FeVF7 cathode delivers a high reversible capacity of 146.5 mA h g-1 based on active Fe2+/Fe3+ and V3+/V4+ redox reactions in sodium-ion batteries. A steady cycling performance with a high capacity retention of 95% over 200 cycles is achieved owing to the negligible structural change during Na+ insertion/extraction.

A Low-Strain Phosphate Cathode for High-Rate and Ultralong Cycle-Life Potassium-Ion Batteries.

Most potassium-ion battery (PIB) cathode materials have deficient structural stability because of the huge radius of potassium ion, leading to inferior cycling performance. We report the controllable synthesis of a novel low-strain phosphate material K3 (VO)(HV2 O3 )(PO4 )2 (HPO4 ) (denoted KVP) nanorulers as an efficient cathode for PIBs. The as-synthesized KVP nanoruler cathode exhibits an initial reversible capacity of 80.6 mAh g-1 under 20 mA g-1 , with a large average working potential of 4.11 V. It also manifests an excellent rate property of 54.4 mAh g-1 under 5 A g-1 , with a high capacity preservation of 92.1 % over 2500 cycles. The outstanding potassium storage capability of KVP nanoruler cathode originates from a low-strain K+ uptake/removal mechanism, inherent semiconductor characteristic, and small K+ migration energy barrier. The high energy density and prolonged cyclic stability of KVP nanorulers//polyaniline-intercalated layered titanate full battery verifies the superiority of KVP nanoruler cathode in PIBs.

In Situ-Formed Cr2O3 Coating on NaCrO2 with Improved Sodium Storage Performance.

Cr2O3 is generally considered as an impurity phase with negative effects on the electrochemical performance of NaCrO2 because it may cause a certain degree of capacity loss. In this study, however, we have found the bright side of Cr2O3 as a protective coating material, which greatly improves the Na+ storage capability, especially the cycling stability, of NaCrO2. After 1000 cycles at 10C, a capacity of 100.4 mAh g-1 with a high capacity retention of 84.8% can be achieved for a Cr2O3-coated NaCrO2 sample. The optimal sample exhibits a rate performance with 108.0 mAh g-1 at a high rate of 60C. Cyclic voltammetry analysis indicates that such an in situ-formed inactive Cr2O3 layer has little influence on Na+ diffusion in NaCrO2 electrodes, but it prevents the direct contact between the active material and the electrolyte, suppressing the side reactions effectively.

Introducing a cell moisturizer: organogel nano-beads with rapid response to electrolytes for Prussian white analogue based non-aqueous potassium ion battery.

Prussian white analogue nanoparticles were connected internally by a composite consisting of poly(butyl methacrylate) (PBMA) nano-gel and a conducting polymer layer via a one-step route. The powder falling problems have been mitigated by the intrinsic good binding strength of PBMA organogel; meanwhile, the conducting polymer provides extra transfer paths for electrons.

Graphene encircled KFeSO4F cathode composite for high energy density potassium-ion batteries.

Herein, we report on a facile and novel synthesis and multifarious characterizations of the graphene wrapped KFeSO4F (KFSF@G) for the first time. The KFSF@G electrode exhibits admirable electrochemical performance with a high average operating potential of 3.55 V and high reversible discharge capacity of 111.51 mA h g-1.

Cr2P2O7 as a Novel Anode Material for Sodium and Lithium Storage.

The development of new appropriate anode material with low cost is still main issue for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) and lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Here, Cr2P2O7 with an in-situ formed carbon layer has been fabricated through a facile solid-state method and its storage performance in SIBs and LIBs has been reported first. The Cr2P2O7@C delivers 238 mA h g-1 and 717 mA h g-1 at 0.05 A g-1 in SIBs and LIBs, respectively. A capacity of 194 mA h g-1 is achieved in SIBs after 300 cycles at 0.1 A g-1 with a high capacity retention of 92.4%. When tested in LIBs, 351 mA h g-1 is maintained after 600 cycles at 0.1 A g-1. The carbon coating layer improves the conductivity and reduces the side reaction during the electrochemical process, and hence improves the rate performance and enhances the cyclic stability.

Introducing a conductive pillar: a polyaniline intercalated layered titanate for high-rate and ultra-stable sodium and potassium ion storage.

A novel electrode material, TiO2-coated polyaniline intercalated layered titanate, is synthesized. Polyaniline is tri-functional: stabilizing the layered titanate structure, enlarging the interlayer spacing and enhancing the electronic conductivity. Such a composite can deliver high capacities of 258 and 219 mA h g-1 in sodium and potassium-ion batteries, respectively. Its high-rate capability and long cycle life are also impressive.

Neonatal neuron specific enolase, a sensitive biochemical marker of neuronal damage, is increased in preeclampsia: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Preeclampsia leads to chronic intrauterine hypoxia by interfering with placental blood supply. We aimed to investigate whether preeclampsia exposure has an influence on central nervous system of infants, as evaluated by analyzing neonatal serum neuron specific enolase (NSE). METHODS: This was a retrospective study including infants born in Nanfang hospital between Jan 2018 and Feb 2019 without asphyxia. They were divided into normotensive control group and preeclampsia group to compare the NSE levels. Furthermore, PE group was divided into five subgroups by lipstick of urine protein from 0 to 4+ to examine the relationship between urine protein and neonatal NSE. RESULTS: Of the 86 selected neonates, there were 40 in control group and 46 in preeclampsia group. The NSE levels were significantly higher in infants with preeclampsia exposure compared to those infants in control group (45.504 ± 17.926 vs 30.690 ± 4.475, P < 0.0001). Multiple regression analyses revealed that the preeclampsia (ß coef = 0.394, p = 0.041), 4+ proteinuria (ß coef = 0.558, p < 0.0001) and 3+ proteinuria (ß coef = 0.356, p = 0.005) were significant independent variables predicting elevated serum NSE concentration. CONCLUSION: For the first time, this research has suggested the increase of neonatal NSE in preeclampsia, and the quantity of maternal proteinuria may be able to predict neonatal NSE elevation. Long-term neurodevelopmental follow-up and targeted preventive strategies are advised for this underrecognized high-risk population.

Laparoscopic resection is better than endoscopic dissection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor between 2 and 5 cm in size: a case-matched study in a gastrointestinal center.

BACKGROUND: The feasibility of endoscopic dissection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (gGIST) between 2 and 5 cm in size has been demonstrated. However, its impact on short-term and long-term outcomes, compared with laparoscopic resection, is unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare short-term and long-term outcomes between laparoscopic resection and endoscopic dissection for 2-5-cm gGIST. METHODS: A case-matched study was performed using the propensity score. To overcome selection bias, we performed a 1:1 match using six covariates, including age, sex, BMI, ASA score, tumor size, and tumor location. Short-term and long-term outcomes between laparoscopic resection and endoscopic dissection were compared. RESULTS: A total of 210 patients with 2-5-cm gGIST were enrolled between 2006 and 2017 in our gastrointestinal center. According to the intention-to-treat approach, 165 patients underwent laparoscopic resection, and 45 patients underwent endoscopic dissection. After the propensity score, 45 pairs were balanced and analyzed. There was no significant difference in the baseline characteristics between the laparoscopic and endoscopic groups after matching. The rate of complications was significantly higher in the endoscopic group compared with the laparoscopic group (P < 0.001). Perforations occurred in 16 patients in the endoscopic group (16/45, 35.6%). The postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in the endoscopic group compared with the laparoscopic group (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups in disease-free survival or overall survival. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic resection is better than endoscopic dissection for 2-5-cm gGIST because of the lower complication rate and shorter hospital stay.

In situ carbon coated flower-like VPO4 as an anode material for potassium-ion batteries.

Here we design a novel carbon coating method for phosphate-based VPO4 with three different morphologies, via the intercalation of isobutanol to layered VOPO4·2H2O combined with thermal reduction. The well-constructed flower-like VPO4 delivers a high reversible capacity of 400 mA h g-1 with a long cycle-life of more than 500 cycles, proving that the special structure is suitable to accommodate the large volume expansion during the electrochemical charge-discharge process.

Sclerosing angiomatoid nodular transformation of the spleen.

The authors described a case of sclerosing angiomatoid nodular transformation of the spleen (SANT) in a 50-year-old woman presented with persistent neutrophilia and unintentional weight loss. An incidental splenic mass was initially found on abdominal ultrasound. It was found to be progressive in size and with high likelihood of central necrosis on further CT of abdomen and pelvis. The patient subsequently underwent an uneventful laparoscopic splenectomy. The splenic specimens were sent for laboratory analysis and the histopathological findings were highly suggestive of SANT. The patient then had routine surgical follow-ups and was eventually discharged with no further clinical concern.

Surface Li+/K+ Exchange toward Double-Gradient Modification of Layered Li-Rich Cathode Materials.

Surface coating and lattice doping are widely used to enhance the interfacial and structural stabilities of Li1.2Ni0.13Co0.13Mn0.54O2 (LNCM). In this paper, KF is used to modify LNCM for the first time. A Li+/K+ exchange in the Li slabs is realized via a high-temperature treatment. Consequently, subsurface K+ gradient doping and surface K1-xLixF gradient coating are obtained simultaneously on LNCM. Such an Li+/K+ exchange mechanism and double-gradient modification are clarified by X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive spectrometry line scans, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy analyses. As a result, the optimal 0.5 wt % KF-modified LNCM material shows markedly alleviated voltage degradation (0.0031 V@1 cycle), improved cycling stability (88%@100 cycles@0.5 C), and rate capability (108 mA h g-1@10 C), revealing large application potential in high-energy materials.