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Extracellular vesicles (EVs) and epigenomic profiles are closely linked and reciprocally regulated. EVs reprogram the epigenomic profile by remodeling DNA, RNA, and histone modifications in recipient cells, by delivering cargoes mainly targeting methyltransferase and demethyltransferase. EVs display great potential as diagnostic markers and epidrug delivery vehicles for therapeutic applications. Advanced technologies and multi-omic profiling to define single EV characterization would improve the loading efficacy and delivery accuracy of EVs in disease treatments. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), emerging as novel mediators between intercellular communication, encapsulate distinct bioactive cargoes to modulate multiple biological events, such as epigenetic remodeling. In essence, EVs and epigenomic profiles are tightly linked and reciprocally regulated. Epigenetic factors, including histone and DNA modifications, noncoding RNAs, and protein post-translational modifications (PTMs) dynamically regulate EV biogenesis to contribute to EV heterogeneity. Alternatively, EVs actively modify DNA, RNA, and histone profiles in recipient cells by delivering RNA and protein cargoes for downstream epigenetic enzyme regulation. Moreover, EVs display great potential as diagnostic markers and drug-delivery vehicles for therapeutic applications. The combination of parental cell epigenomic modification with single EV characterization would be a promising strategy for EV engineering to enhance the epidrug loading efficacy and accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary methylmercury (MeHg) exposure has posed substantial risks to human health. Existing studies have characterized the spatial patterns of China's MeHg exposure. However, the spatial difference and relevant influencing factors have not been investigated. This study quantified the spatial differences of dietary MeHg exposure in China and revealed the relevant influencing factors, which can help optimize the dietary behavior to reduce MeHg exposure. Results show that dietary MeHg exposure in coastal regions is significantly higher than the national average, especially in Shanghai (+191%). Dietary structure difference is the most significant factor influencing spatial differences in MeHg exposure, and its contribution increased from 64% to 73% between 2004 and 2019. In particular, the high proportion of marine fish intake dominates the significantly higher MeHg exposure in most regions. An intake ratio of 2:3 for marine and freshwater fishes is recommended to ensure minimal MeHg exposure and meanwhile meet the nutritional needs. Moreover, narrowing regional dietary behavior disparities can reduce the overall MeHg exposure in China. These findings highlight the importance of region-specific measures in reducing dietary MeHg exposure and implementing the Minamata Convention on Mercury. • Dietary MeHg exposure in coastal regions is higher than the national average of China. • Dietary structure contributes about 70% to the spatial difference in MeHg exposure. • An intake ratio of 2:3 for marine and freshwater fish is recommended for minimal exposure. • Narrowing dietary behavior disparities can reduce the overall MeHg exposure in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • All ionic liquid-based Ionogel were synthesized by EBI at first time. • Ionogel are characterized by covalent/non-covalent coupling. • Ionogel have tunable mechanical properties and long-term stability. • Ionogel have rapid self-healing (120 s) and environmental tolerance (−60 ∼ 150 °C). • Ionogel act like skin to sense external stimuli (Strain, temperature, humidity). As novel artificial ion-conducting materials with skin-like functionalities, Ionic skins (I-Skins) have attracted wide attention in the field of smart wearables. Nonetheless, the crucial hurdle of maintaining their properties in extreme conditions, such as cold, hot or long-term storage, persists. Herein, ionic liquid monomers, ionic liquid solvents, and ionic liquid cross-linkers are employed to facilitate covalently/non-covalently coupled all ionic liquid-based Ionogel for multimodal artificial I-skin through electron beam irradiation under mild conditions at the first time. Profiting from the covalently/non-covalently interactions in the Ionogel, the Ionogel has tunable mechanical properties, excellent environmental adaptability (−60 to 150 °C), long-term stability (90 days), fast response time (0.1 s), rapid self-healing ability (120 s recovery to 90 % of original), and favorable adhesion properties. Moreover, Ionogel sensors possess the remarkable capability to accurately perceive external stimuli, including strain, temperature, and humidity, similar to human skin, which can effectively monitor human movement behavior, as well as fluctuations in ambient temperature and humidity. It is expected that this all ionic liquid-based Ionogel sensor can fill the gap of I-Skin in extreme conditions and realize multifunctional flexible sensing, thus expanding more application scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The grafting degree of carbon fiber was adjusted by adjusting the absorbed dose. • Grafting glycidyl methacrylate process of carbon fiber was optimized under low dose. • A large number of homopolymers appeared on the surface of the grafted carbon fiber. Functionalization of high modulus carbon fiber (HMCF) with high carbon content and strong surface inertness is a huge challenge. In our previous work, glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) was grafted onto the surface of HMCF through acid-activated synergistic ionizing radiation. However, grafting process was not optimized and need to be improved. In this study, the influence of absorbed dose on the grafting of GMA onto HMCF was investigated. The grafting degree of HMCF was able to effectively controlled by adjusting absorbed dose. The grafting degree of HMCF reaches a maximum value of 17.9%. After grafting, a great number of homopolymers appeared on the surface of HMCF. This result effectively reduces the waste of grafting monomers and energy, ultimately achieving better modification results at lower absorbed doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CX3CR1+ macrophages are critical for mucosal homeostasis and IBD pathogenesis. • Discrepancy exists in current studies with both protective and harmful effects. • CX3CR1 targeting strategy could be powerful weapon in fighting against colitis. • Precise mechanisms should be taken into account concerning the appropriate usage of CX3CR1 targeted therapy. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), consisting of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), is featured by overactive immune response and enduring course of unrestrained colitis. Genetic predisposition and environmental factors are fundamental in disease progression. Notably, microbiota dysregulation and its interaction with host mucosal barrier perplex disease phenotype. Under experimental setting, distinct mouse models are established to mimic human colitis process, including infection induced dysbiosis, dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) etc. induced barrier destruction, anti-CD40 L induced innate immunity dominant colitis and T cell transfer colitis model. Thus, from a more detailed aspect, IBD is heterogeneous and can be further classified into different subtypes based on the specific etiological pathways. As a typical inflammatory disorder, various immune cell types are involved in IBD pathogenesis. Among them, macrophages are believed to play a pivotal role. CX3CR1+ macrophages, deriving from peripheral patrolling CD14+ Ly6Chi monocytes, are specified cell population dwelling in the gut. Accumulating evidence suggests that CX3CR1+ macrophages are critical for mucosal homeostasis and IBD pathogenesis, while some conflicts exist in current studies with both protective and harmful effects being revealed. Herein, we reviewed published literatures and found that the observed discrepancies stem from many aspects: the expression level of CX3CR1, the confounding dendritic cell subsets and most importantly, the different colitis stages and subtypes. Overall, CX3CR1 targeting strategy could be powerful weapon in fighting against colitis, but at the same time, the precise etiological and pathological mechanisms should be cautiously examined concerning the appropriate usage of CX3CR1 targeted therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is crucial in several biomedical applications. Here, we propose an electro-optical sensor for ATP that functions without optical labels or recognition unit based on the electrochemistry-assisted formation of ATP-Ag+ complexes and subsequent plasmon-supported generation of the intrinsic surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectrum of ATP. Using bimetal-functionalized carbon fiber microelectrodes (CFME), the analysis of ATP with the sensor can be carried out in cellular microenvironments. Bimetallic nanostructures composed of gold nanoparticles and silver nanoparticles were electrochemically deposited on CFME as SERS substrates. Both, fabrication and sensing mainly rely on the execution of redox reactions of silver nanoparticles on the microelectrode, where silver ions released from the oxidation reaction are used as a mediator for the formation of complexes with ATP, which are then anchored to the surface of the microelectrode by the reduction reaction. The SERS spectrum collected from this plasmonic substrate can be used to recognize ATP at low concentrations in the nM range. The miniaturized SERS sensor was applied to cell culture medium and human serum as complex biological microenvironments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simultaneous balance of electrode materials and electrode structures can energize the development of innovative electrochemical sensors. In this work, a 3D nanocarbon layer of hybrid heteroatoms and metal atoms (CN/Fe) with excellent electrical properties and abundant active sites was self-constructed on the surface of a quartz-based nanofiber by high-temperature pyrolysis. Further, the nanofiber tip was selected as the sensing region to develop an electrochemical sensing platform with high sensitivity, miniaturization, and portability. A common broad-spectrum antibiotic (Doxycycline hyclate, DOX) was used as a model to evaluate the designed miniaturized sensing platform, and the stability, reproducibility, and applicability of the microsensor were verified in a variety of real samples, including algal solution, milk, human serum, and cell culture media. The results show that the proposed sensing platform has a detection limit as low as 82 nM in aqueous environments. Furthermore, it is further shown that coupling the design of electrode materials and electrode structures facilitates the development of electrochemical sensors with more practical applications. This concept will open up new avenues for the development of electrochemical sensors that meet many application scenarios. [Display omitted] • A method for preparing multi-doped carbon microelectrodes is presented. • The active sites on the microelectrodes play an important role in detecting DOX. • The miniaturized electrochemical sensor was integrated based on CN/Fe ME. • The miniaturized analytical platform was examined in a variety of real samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• SPORL pretreatment by product was used to prepare lignosulfonate/N-methylaniline composite (LSMA). • LSMA represented prominent Cr(VI) removal performance. • Only 10 min was needed for fully removal of Cr(VI) with initial concentration below 100 mg/L. • Maximum adsorption capacity of 1264.8 mg/g of Cr(VI) was obtained by LSMA. • LSMA showed a good selectivity of Cr(VI). A lignin-based biosorbent (LSMA) was prepared by cross-linking lignosulfonate and N-methylaniline with the aid of ammonium persulfate for efficient removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. Since LSMA possessed both amino groups and oxygen-containing functional groups, such as phenolic, carboxyl, and sulfonic groups, the maximum adsorption capacity of 1264.8 mg/g was achieved at 318 K according to the Langmuir isotherm. LSMA also showed excellent performance at low Cr(VI) concentration solution. The hazardous Cr(VI) solution of 50 mg/L can be fully removed within 10 min. The adsorption process of LSMA fitted the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, suggesting the chemical adsorption characteristics. Moreover, the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. LSMA worked very well even with high content of competing anions. The removal mechanism was demonstrated to be the adsorption of Cr(VI) anions on LSMA with abundant functional groups, and reduction of Cr(VI) to less toxic Cr(III) by the adjacent electron donor groups. The generated Cr(III) was immobilized on LSMA by surface complexation and precipitation. LSMA composite has a great potential for the treatment of Cr(VI)-contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A microelectrode with both SERS sensing and electrochemical sensing was developed. • Designed satellite-like nanostructure endows excellent analytical performance. • The turn-off and turn-on analysis modes successfully detect mercury ions. • The miniaturized analytical platform was examined in the algal solution. Developing a microelectrode with in-situ multiple sensing modes will greatly expand the applicability and reliability of the analytical platform. Hence, a functional substrate with a satellite-like nanostructure was constructed on a gold microelectrode (Au ME). This structure not only amplifies the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) signal of the labeled molecule (4-nitrobenzenthiol, NBT) on the functionalized Au NPs, but also ensures the good electrical properties of the proposed functionalized microelectrode (Au ME/Au-AuNDNA). Based on this feature, the highly toxic heavy metal mercury ions (Hg2+) were used as a model to verify this dual modal analytical platform. Significantly, the proposed microelectrode has a satisfactory sensitivity to Hg2+and allows the simultaneous presentation of analytical results by dual-mode of SERS signal turn-off (LOD 2.7 × 10−11 M) and current signal turn-on (LOD 6.4 × 10−9 M), the detected concentration of Hg2+ is below the dangerous limit of World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This relies mainly on the formation of thymine-Hg2+-thymine (T-Hg2+-T) by the modified probe B ssDNA on the microelectrode to disrupt the satellite structure with AuNDNA, while the applied potential reduces the Hg2+ captured by T-Hg2+-T on the microelectrode surface. Such a fascinating analytical strategy was further evaluated in an environmental water sample simulated with algal solution and still showed a reliable analytical capability. Thus, the proposed dual-mode sensing concept not only opens new avenues for the coordinated application of novel electrochemical and SERS sensing techniques, but also provides a foundation for in-situ detection based on micro/nanoscale electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MXene-based hydrogel coated cotton fabrics (MHCFs) are facilely prepared. • Evaporation enthalpy of water on the MHCFs is effectively reduced. • MHCFs exhibit excellent stability under harsh conditions. • Continuously evaporating 3.5 wt% brine on cylinder evaporator averaged at 2.46 kg m–2h−1. Herein, a robust Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene-based hydrogel-coated cotton fabrics (MHCFs) was facilely prepared by electron beam (E-beam) irradiation induced crosslinking under mild condition, which efficiently combined the outstanding light absorption and photothermal conversion performance of MXene with the excellent water transport capacity and good mechanical property of cotton fabrics (CFs). The novel MHCFs deservedly achieved not only high solar absorption, but also excellent water evaporation rate (1.65 kg m−2h−1 under 1-sun irradiation), which breaks through the theoretical limit of planar evaporators (1.47 kg m−2h−1). It also shows great stability and no salt accumulation in long-time continuous solar evaporation of 3.5 wt% NaCl solution, which remained its evaporation rate around 1.49 kg m−2h−1 under 1-sun irradiation after 12 cycles. Moreover, the covalent crosslinking among the Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene sheets, PVA and cellulose of CF induced by E-beam irradiation also endowed the MHCFs with good tolerance to acidic and ultrasonic treatments. In addition, the MHCFs were facilely assembled as a 3D evaporator with cylindrical structure, which not only exhibits 3.74 kg m−2h−1 of water evaporation rate under 1-sun irradiation, but also achieves 2.46 kg m−2h−1 of averaged rate from 3.5 wt% solution after 5 cycles of continuous long-time evaporation test. This study opens a pave to fabricate robust hydrogel-coated photothermal fabrics in continuous and large-scale manner, and expands the application of solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SDIE) to the seawater desalination, wastewater treatment and evaporative crystallization, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoplastics (NPLs), of which polystyrene (PS) plastics are typical representatives, are of global concern as emerging contaminants, especially the leakage of NPLs into drinking water, which is directly related to human health. To onsite visually assess the extent of NPLs contamination in drinking water in a rapid and non-destructive manner, this work extends the application of the highly sensitive response to pH of mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA)-functionalized gold nanoparticles (Au NPs). Further, a visual sensing method based on the binding of alkyl chains to PS NPLs with hydrophobic force to suppress pH-induced aggregation of functionalized nanoparticles was constructed. Particularly, the designed analytical strategy is a significant renewal of the first strategy for the visual detection of PS NPLs, featuring non-destructive, fast response (∼30 s), high selectivity, and detection limit (26 μg/L). Importantly, it can reliably distinguish the more hazardous PS NPLs of smaller particle size (<100 nm). Moreover, visualization-based detection observes the color change of the reaction solution from dark purple to wine red. The employment of a smartphone installed App to read the color three-channel value R further ensures the credibility of the analysis results. The proposed visual analysis strategy will provide a promising new avenue for efficient detection of surface hydrophobic NPLs and further evaluation of their particle size or shape. • This is the novel method for visual detection of PS nanoplastics. • It is able to rapidly visualize the sieving of PS nanoplastics smaller than 100 nm. • It is expected to develop test kits for testing nanoplastics in drinking water. • Provides the basis for visual detection of nanoplastics in complex environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different organic ligands capped CdSe quantum dots (QDs) are synthesized. Our results show that CdSe QDs exhibit high photoluminescent intensity when the surface dangling bonds are passivated by trioctylphosphine and oleylamine together. FT-IR vibrational spectra reveal that the oleylamine mainly bond to the metal sites. In the process of synthesis, oleylamine can make CdSe more uniform by controlling the rate of nucleation and growth. Because of size-dependent band gap, core/shell QDs emitting desired color can be obtained by coating different sized cores. The photoluminescence peaks of core/shell QDs cover a wide range from 580 to 615 nm. The core/shell QDs are successfully transferred into aqueous solution through ligand exchanging with reduced glutathione and used to label HeLa cells. • Oleylamine molecules mainly bond to the metal sites which is verified by FT-IR spectra. • QDs are robust enough for phase transfer into water and are used to label HeLa cells. • QDs show high PL intensity when passivated by trioctylphosphine and oleylamine. • PL peaks of core/shell QDs cover a wide range from 580 to 615 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Despite recent advances in the fabrication of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) with excellent fluorescence performance, it has been challenging to extend the fluorescence emission to deep red and short wave near-infrared. Herein, we present a strategy to reach the goal via hydrothermal treatment of polythiophene derivatives which mainly comprises a polythiophene conjugate skeleton, lots of benzene ring structure and alkyl chain. This structure is thermally converted into a doped crystalline GQDs at 170 °C for 20 h with the maximum fluorescence emission at 700 nm. In addition, the length of alkyl chain also has a regulatory effect on emission wavelength of final products, which enables the chemical molecular-level structural design of GQDs with specific light emission waveband. Graphical abstract Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract 3-Methylindole (3-MI) is a recalcitrant and toxic substance that can cause damages to human and animal lung cells and may have a pronounced effect on mood and stress levels. Rapid and sensitive detection of 3-MI is therefore of great important for its environmental safety evaluation. A novel electrochemical sensor for the determination of 3-MI was fabricated based on electropolymerization of molecular imprinted polymer (MIP) film on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Rational selection of the suitable monomers was conducted by evaluation of the interaction between each monomer and template using the density functional theory method. The results indicated that the stabilization energy of 3-MI- o -Phenylenediamine (o -PD) complex is greater than that obtained from other evaluated monomers, hence o -PD was used to prepare the MIP sensor. The imprinted layer was systematically characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impendence spectroscopy (EIS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Under optimal experimental conditions, a linear relationship was observed between the peak current change of the electrochemical probe [Fe(CN) 6 ]3− and the concentration of 3-MI over the range 0.01–1.2 μM, with a detection limit of 4 nM. This sensor also exhibited superb selectivity to 3-MI as minimum interferences were observed from other structurally similar compounds, thus it was successfully applied for the determination of 3-MI in real samples. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • A highly sensitive and selective MIP sensor was developed for the detection of 3-methylindole in water. • The computer assisted design was used to select functional monomers by calculating stabilization energy. • Theoretical predictions were verified by subsequent experiment data. • The developed sensor was successfully applied for the determination of 3-methylindole real in real samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • FeOx overcome single crystal phases generally suffering from serious agglomeration and poor electrical conductivity. • The synergistic effect between the electrocatalytic property and the polycrystalline structure of FeOx was verified. • Hybrid FeOx with variable oxidation states remarkably facilitate the efficient redox charge transfer. Abstract Investigations on interplay between sensing platform performance and crystal phase of material are the new beginning of designing advanced bioanalytical systems. Herein, FeO x nanoparticles (NPs, ∼100 nm), including superfine magnetic (Fe 3 O 4) and hematite (α-Fe 2 O 3) nanocrystals in single particles, have been employed to verify the synergistic effect between the electrocatalytic property and the polycrystalline structure of the materials. Moreover, this strategy overcomes that single crystal phases generally suffer from serious agglomeration and poor electrical conductivity. More importantly, hybrid metal oxides (e.g., α-Fe 2 O 3 /Fe 3 O 4) with variable oxidation states remarkably facilitate the efficient redox charge transfer. Taking the detection of Flutamide (FLT) in prostate cancer cells (VCaP cells) as example, the dynamic ranges of the oxidation states from the different crystal phases were integrated into a single electrochemical sensor interface. Furthermore, good selectivity, accuracy, satisfactory sensitivity (769.1 μA mM−1 cm-2) and low detection limits (46.6 nM) were achieved. Going beyond the conventional single-crystal phase-driven electrochemical sensing, the elaborate of polycrystalline structure in a single particle may open a new approach for the design of outstanding electrode materials, which not only can significantly improve the performance of sensing platforms, but also can be used to rationally design the material properties according to the applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A ligand-free copper-catalyzed reduction of azaarenes with diboronic acid as reductant in an aprotic solvent under mild conditions has been developed. Most interestingly, the nitroazaarenes could be reduced exclusively to give the corresponding amines without touching the azaarene moieties. Furthermore, the reductive amination of aromatic nitro compounds and aromatic aldehydes has also been realized. A series of hydrogenated azaarenes and secondary amines were obtained with good functional group tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper nanoparticles modified nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxide 3-D superstructure was successively prepared via a two-step reaction. Polydopamine was used as nitrogen source for the fabrication of nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxide and reducing agent for in-situ reduction of CuCl 2 . After calcination under nitrogen protection, the conductivity, electron transfer ability and electrocatalytic activity of nanocomposites were substantially improved. The enhanced redox property could be attributed to the difference in the electronegativity of carbon and nitrogen atoms of the 3-D superstructure. By using this composite material, an electrochemical sensor was constructed for the detection of dihydroxybenzene isomers, which exhibited excellent sensitivity (with limit of detection at 81–131 nmol L −1 levels), wide linear ranges (0.5–720 μmol L −1 ) and good selectivity. Hence it was directly applied for the simultaneous determination of dihydroxybenzene isomers in contaminated samples (e.g., waste waters). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, a novel Janus photothermal hydrogel-fabric was developed by firmly formatting surface hydrophobized porous photothermal hydrogel on a commercial cotton fabric in large area. This Janus-architected hydrogel-fabric not merely inherits the "water activation" effect of hydrogel-based evaporator, but also combines the good mechanical property of cotton fabric. In laboratory evaporation under 1 sun illumination (1 kW m−2), this novel hydrogel-fabric coupled evaporator achieved evaporation rate up to 1.60 kg m−2 h−1 from pure water, as well as 1.55 kg m−2 h−1 from 3.5 wt% NaCl solution, exceeding the theoretical limit of plane evaporators. It also has been confirmed no salt accumulation on the photothermal hydrogel-fabric surface and no evaporation performance degradation occurring in the multicycle long-time continuous evaporation testing in saline water and simulated industrial dyeing water. Additionally, 6.3 kg m−2 of freshwater was produced from 3.5 wt% NaCl solution in 9 h under natural sunlight (average 0.46 sun, Sep. 23th 2022 in Shanghai, China), showing a great potential to seawater desalination for freshwater supply in the coastal and insular area. Considering the simple process in large-scale preparation, and efficient but also stable solar evaporation performance, this novel hydrogel-fabric coupled evaporator could promote the solar evaporation technology to large-scale application in real industrial fields. • Janus-structured hydrogel-fabric coupled evaporator is facilely prepared. • Evaporation enthalpy of water on the hydrogel-fabrics is effectively reduced. • No salt accumulation on the Janus hydrogel-fabric coupled evaporator • Continuous evaporation in 3.5 wt% brine shows a constant evaporation rate. • 9 h out-door solar evaporation achieves 6.3 kg m−2 of freshwater from 3.5 wt% brine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen and iron phosphides (i.e., FeP) doped carbon nanotubes (N/FeP-CNT), featured with multi-element co-doping, multi-active sites, and uniform distribution were prepared and characterized. The synergistic effect of nitrogen doped carbon nanotubes (N-CNT) and FeP improved the electrical conductivity and electrocatalytic properties of the modified electrode, which provided a new analysis platform for simultaneous detection of dihydroxybenzoic acid isomers (DHBA isomers). Low detection limits (i.e., 124, 65, and 221 nmol L −1 for 2,4-DHBA, 3,4-DHBA, and 2,5-DHBA, respectively) and wide detection range (i.e., 0.5-600, 0.5-560, and 0.5–820 μmol L −1 for 2,4-DHBA, 3,4-DHBA, and 2,5-DHBA, respectively) were obtained for DHBA isomers. In addition, the electrode exhibited good anti-interference ability and long-term stability for the determination of DHBA isomers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An unprecedented palladium-catalyzed chemoselective reduction and reductive amination of nitroarenes with water as a hydrogen source mediated by diboronic acid have been discovered. A series of aryl amines containing various reducible functional groups were obtained in good to excellent yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extreme chemical inertness of high-modulus carbon fiber (HMCF) makes its functionalization quite difficult. In this work, a new method was explored to grafted glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) onto the surface of HMCF combined acid activation with co-radiation grafting. Structural changes and surface morphologies were investigated in detail. GMA was successfully grafted on to HMCF after acid activation synergized with ionization radiation, and the grafting degree was calculated to be 22%. The O/C atom ratio, content of the oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface. After acid activation and grafting, the hydrophilicity is effectively improved, and it can be wetted by water with good dispersibility in water. The surface structure of the fiber became highly disordered after grafting GMA. Finally, the grafting mechanism was discussed. The carboxyl groups introduced by the acid activation should be responsible for the successful grafting of the HMCF. This work provides a new pathway to fulfill the modification of HMCF and will be beneficial for obtaining high performance HMCF composites. [Display omitted] • Hydrophilicity of HMCF was efficiently enhanced after acid activation and grafting. • The surface structure of the HMCF became highly disordered after grafting GMA. • A novel method was explored to fulfill the surface functionalization of HMCF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heteroatom and transition metal borides-doped carbon nanomaterials provide a simple, yet powerful sensing platform when combined with electrochemical sensing technologies. However, there is a large unmet need for reliable and portable psychoactive drug measurement systems for environmental science or criminal investigation applications. Herein, a highly sensitive portable electrochemical sensing platform was designed for the psychoactive drug. Building on this we combine heteroatom (N) and transition metal borides (WB) in a carbon nanotube to form a high performance sensing for the detection of heroin. Moreover, this creates an electrochemical sensor for heroin that is capable of being run by the flexible screen printing electrode (SPE). Importantly, the experimental results were in excellent agreement with our proposed model, which creates hybrid nanocarbon layers of differing charge densities and abundant active sites on the surface of the carbon nanocomposites. The density and diameter of these zones also affect both the viability and sensitivity of the assay. In a proof-of-concept study, this approach allows the interrogation of the real samples from the natural water environment, and then which highlights the enlightenment and considerations for the future design of electrode materials and construction of sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asymmetric synthesis of 3,4-dihydro-2 H -1,2,4-benzothiadiazine-1,1-dioxides (DHBDs) was realized using readily available scandium(III)- inda -Pybox as the catalyst. It represents the first example focusing on systematic study of asymmetric synthesis of DHBDs, and a series of enantioselective 3-alkyl, or 3-aryl DHBDs were obtained with up to 93% ee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A concise approach for the synthesis of 2-substituted quinazolinones using an iron-catalyzed tandem reaction of 2-aminobenzamides with acyclic or cyclic 1,3-diketones via condensation, intramolecular nucleophilic addition, C–C bond cleavage in an aqueous solution of poly(ethylene glycol) under oxidant-free conditions has been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wide emission-tunable and different morphological alloyed CdTeSe quantum dots (QDs), CdTeSe/ZnS and CdTeSe/ZnSe/ZnS core–shell QDs were successfully synthesized via an injection controlled process. The effect of injection procedure and reaction temperature were systematically discussed and the growth mechanism was proposed. Most efficient PL wavelength was correlated with reaction time and temperature. The 3-D PL spectra of spherical bare CdTeSe and core–shell QDs with different passivation showed different excitation wavelength dependency. The PL intensity of CdTeSe/ZnSe/ZnS core–shell QDs increased greatly in comparison with that of CdTeSe and CdTeSe/ZnSe QDs. ZnSe transition layer played an important role in improving the PL intensity by providing a smoothened interface and gradient band offsets. The core–shell QDs were transferred into aqueous phase and successfully conjugated with Escherichia coli O-157. The proposed phase-transfer and bio-labeling strategy may be applicable to various QDs with different compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The incorporation of APTES improved mechanical properties of the coating films. [•] The incorporation of APTES improved the water and toluene resistance. [•] The 3H pencil could not mar the coatings surface. [•] The coatings showed high transparence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Due to the great potential applications, high transparent organic–inorganic nanocomposites have attracted wide attention over past decade. However, it is still a challenge to maintain the transparency of optical materials due to the light scattering caused by the severely aggregation of nanoparticles (NPs) when they are introduced into the polymer matrix. In this report, we describe the preparation of UV-curable transparent poly(urethane acrylate) (PUA) nanocomposites with 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propylmethacrylate (MPS) modified ITO NPs. The FTIR and TGA results confirmed that the MPS was grafted to the surface of ITO NPs successfully. It was found that the incorporation of ITO NPs not only provided UV shielding ability to the nanocomposite coatings with the similar transparency of the pure PUA, but also exhibited low transmittance of near-infrared (NIR) light. And, the cutoff wavelength of the composites in NIR range (800–2500nm) shifts toward the lower wavelength as ITO concentration increasing. The transmittance of the nanocomposite coatings with 0wt.%, 1wt.%, 3wt.%, 5wt.%, 7wt.% and 9wt.% of the ITO NPs at 1500nm in the NIR region are 91%, 56%, 38%, 31%, 18% and 6%, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Acrylic acid was grafted onto chlorinated polyethylene by co-radiation method. • The reaction is completed in one step by radiation method, simple and fast. • The surface transformed from hydrophobic to hydrophilic after grafting. • This would give new properties and provide better compatibility with matrix. Acrylic acid (AA) was grafted onto chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) by co-irradiation method to regulate the hydrophilic properties. The CPE samples were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and water contact angle (WCA). The WCA of CPE decreased from 108° to 60° by radiation-induced grafting AA. The CPE transformed from hydrophobicity to hydrophilicity after radiation-grafting. The wettability of the CPE improved by radiation-grafting of AA, and the hydrophilicity can be adjusted by regulating the grafting degree. It is believed that the compatibility with the matrix obviously improves for grafted CPE with the covalent bonding of AA to CPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The BiOCOOH/Ag/AgBr composite material was prepared by a facile precipitation photoreduction method. • After the introduction of AgBr, the visible light utilization efficiency was improved. • The SPR effect of Ag0 could generate more hot electrons to enhance the photocatalytic efficiency. • The BiOCOOH/Ag/AgBr composite possessed excellent long-term stability. • The constructed type-II heterojunction was an effective approach for improving the charge separation efficiency. The easy recombination of electron-hole pairs produced by monomeric photocatalysts under light exposure severely limits their application in wastewater treatment. Based on this, BiOCOOH/Ag/AgBr ternary photocatalysts in flower-like microspheres were controllably synthesized by precipitation photoreduction and characterized by various techniques. In addition, the effects of different molar ratio of BiOCOOH and AgBr, catalyst dose, pH and coexisting ions on the photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) and tetracycline (TC) were investigated. The results showed that the BOC/Ag/AgBr-0.5 composite exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity for the degradation of RhB and TC. The excellent photocatalytic activity was mainly attributed to the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect of metallic Ag and charge transfer mechanism between composites, thus promoting charge separation. The degradation efficiency of RhB and TC was 92.7% and 72.3% with the degradation rate constant of 0.073 and 0.023 under light irradiation of xenon lamp in 30 and 45 min, respectively, which was 6 and 2 times higher than that of BiOCOOH and AgBr. The stability studies showed that BOC/Ag/AgBr-0.5 maintained a high catalytic activity after four cycles. The results of radical capture experiments showed that h+ and · O 2 – were the main reactive radicals, while · OH played a secondary role in the photocatalytic system. Subsequently, a potential photocatalytic mechanism was proposed based on the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a metabolic dysfunction characterized by the selective destruction of islet β-cells, with oxidative stress playing an essential role in the manifestation of this disease state. Aloperine (ALO) represents the main active alkaloid extracted from the traditional Chinese herbal Sophora alopecuroides L. and features outstanding antioxidative properties. In this study, T1D was induced by a single high dose streptozotocin (STZ, 150 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) in mice. Diabetic animals were intragastrically administered ALO at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day. Notably, treatment of ALO (50 mg/kg/day) for seven consecutive days could observably reverse the onset of diabetes induced by STZ accompanied by weight gain, lower blood glucose levels, and relief of β-cells damage. Our in vitro study further demonstrated that ALO protected β-cells from STZ/hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative damage as manifested by increased expression of MnSOD and CAT. Furthermore, a network pharmacology study revealed that NOS1 represented the main target of ALO. Mechanistic studies subsequently showed that treatment of ALO increased the expression of NOS1, whereas NOS2 was decreased. Moreover, a docking study carried out suggested that ALO could fit into the binding pocket of human NOS1 and molecular dynamics simulation further validated this docking event. Collectively, the administration of ALO prior to diabetes could be a viable approach to the prevention of β-cell injury. This study may offer a novel potential herbal medicine against T1D and may further help improve the understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of ALO-mediated protection against oxidative stress. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct preparation of adsorption materials from black liquor (BL) produced by the kraft pulping process has great potential in wastewater treatment. A three-dimensional nitrogen-doped porous carbon (N-BLSAC) with high specific surface area and large pore volume was synthesized. The adsorption performance of N-BLSAC for Cr(VI) and tetracycline (TC) was systematically investigated. Compared with the porous carbon prepared from purified lignin (N-PLAC), the adsorption performance of N-BLSAC for TC was more superior. It was not only attributed to the pore-filling effect but also the electrostatic interaction, hydrogen bonding, and π-π electron-donor-receptor. In terms of Cr(VI), the adsorption performance of N-BLSAC and N-PLAC had little difference. Moreover, N-BLSAC and N-PLAC exhibited an excellent anti-interference property. Therefore, the porous carbon prepared by direct carbonization of BL has significant advantages in removing Cr(VI) and TC from aqueous solution. [Display omitted] • Black liquor was directly used to prepare high surface area activated carbon (N-BLSAC). • The lignin-based porous carbon (N-PLAC) was also prepared for comparison. • The adsorption performance of N-BLSAC was superior to N-PLAC. • The adsorption mechanism of Cr(VI) and TC on N-BLSAC was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cobalt nanoparticles and Co-N x groups are anchored on N-doped graphene by a simple method. • The Co/Co-Nx@NG exhibits good adsorption and catalytic conversion of polysulfides. • The graphene structure formed in situ displays excellent electrical conductivity. Sluggish reaction kinetics of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery is the key issue affecting cycle capacity and rate performance. Highly conductive and catalytically active sulfur host is still a research hotspot in recent years. Herein, the sulfur host of Co nanoparticles anchored on the Co-N x active centers grafted nitrogen-doped graphene (Co/Co-N x @NG) with high catalytic activity and electrical conductivity was prepared via a simple and feasible in situ method. The cobalt-based nanocatalytic center exhibits efficient sulfur conversion efficiency. Moreover, the Co-N x coordination group is beneficial to inhibit the agglomeration of cobalt nanoparticles to form large particles and further improve the catalytic activity. In addition, the graphene structure formed at low temperature based on the two-dimensional guide of dicyandiamide in combination with the catalytic graphitization of cobalt nanoparticles has excellent electrical conductivity. Owing to the high catalytic activity, appropriate adsorption ability, and excellent electrical conductivity, the Co/Co-N x @NG applied as sulfur cathode matrix exhibits high capacities of 1300.3 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C and 884.2 mA h g−1 at 2 C, and good cycling stability with a capacity decay of only 0.069% per cycle at 2 C for 705 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Contamination by organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), such as hexachlorobenzene (HCB), DDTs and hexachlorocyclohexane isomers (HCHs) was examined in surface soils from paddy, upland and wetland fields in the region around the Hongze Lake in 2009, and some factors influencing residual levels of OCPs in soils were analyzed. DDTs and HCHs were the predominant contaminants in soils. The residual levels of OCPs in cultivated soils were significantly higher than those of corresponding counterparts in wetland soils. It indicated the agricultural usage amount of OCPs principally accounted for the presence of their residues in soil. Among these organochlorines and their metabolites detected in the soil samples, β-HCH and p, p’-DDE were the two dominant substances of HCHs and DDTs, respectively. The ratio of w(DDT)/w(DDD+DDE) and the ratio α-HCH/γ-HCH also suggested residual HCHs and DDTs in soil resulted from technical HCH (no elimination of Lindane) and DDT applied in this region in the past and there has been no recent input. The analysis of linear correlation indicated that soil pH and TOC influenced the residues of α-HCH and β-HCH, respectively. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed the contents of OCPs in soils probably were related to their usage amount in the past and octanol-water coefficient (Kow). Compared with the corresponding data from other places and the protection guidelines of Netherlands, US EPA and China, the region around the Hongze Lake may be generally categorized as a slightly polluted area and it is suitable for agriculture production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A 0–1 integer linear programming (ILP) technique is used to solve memory-mapping problems in high-level synthesis, which synthesizes the source memory using one or more memory modules from a target memory library at a higher level. This method can not only perform bit-width mapping and word mapping, but it can also perform port mapping at the same time. Experimental results indicate that ILP approach is an effective method for memory reuse in high-level synthesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • PVA decorated PPy nanoparticles is prepared and used to architect photothermal hydrogel-fabric with good durability. • Photothermal hydrogel-fabric breaks through the thermodynamic upper limit of 2D evaporator. • A 3D cylindric evaporator achieves stable evaporation in long time for high-salt water. • 3.43 kg m−2 of fresh water generated in 4 h outdoor evaporation even in the winter. Herein, water-dispersible polypyrrole (PPy)-based nanoparticles were synthesised from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) via acetalization with pyrrole-2-carboxaldehyde and in situ graft redox polymerization of pyrrole. The PVA decorated PPy nanoparticles were facilely anchored onto cotton fabric via drop-casting and borate-crosslinking to form a robust photothermal hydrogel-fabric (PHF). The new PHF material achieves strong sunlight absorption capacity (>92 %) and high evaporation rate (1.62 kg m–2 h−1) of pure water on 2D platform under 1-sun irradiation. Further, a self-floating 3D evaporator (3D-PHF) was constructed by wrapping the PHF material on an expanded polyethylene cylinder, which unexpectedly exhibits high evaporation rate from pure water (2.03 kg m–2 h−1) and brines with different concentrations (1.95 kg m–2 h−1 for 3.5-wt% and 1.85 kg m–2 h−1 for 10-wt%). Cumulative 100 h long-time evaporation confirms the 3D-PHF evaporator even maintained a stable evaporation efficacy to 20-wt% brine (1.55 kg m–2 h−1) due to its self-renewal features triggered by the gravity of deposited salt on upper surface. This study paves a simple pathway to architect novel photothermal material with good solar evaporation efficacy, which contributes to the applications of solar evaporation to saline water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel NaBiO 3 /PNMA composite was prepared via one-pot in-situ polymerization under alkaline conditions. • The light utilization efficiency was improved after the introduction of PNMA. • The strong interaction between NaBiO 3 and PNMA facilitated the transfer efficiency of photogenerated carriers. • NaBiO 3 /PNMA composite exhibited 1.96 times higher photocatalytic degradation efficiency than NaBiO 3. In this work, a novel one-pot method was used to synthesize flake-shaped NaBiO 3 /PNMA photocatalyst. The effect of PNMA on the surface properties and photocatalytic activity of NaBiO 3 was studied. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) results show that there is close connection between NaBiO 3 and PNMA through Bi-O-C bond. The interaction between NaBiO 3 and PNMA leads to a 0.6 eV upward shifting of the valence band of NaBiO 3. The decorated PNMA almost does not change the morphology of NaBiO 3 , but the surface of the NaBiO 3 /PNMA composite is more hydrophobic. The strong interaction between NaBiO 3 and PNMA composite results in the generation of oxygen vacancies, the increase of light absorption range, and the improved separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers. Therefore, the NaBiO 3 /PNMA composite has remarkable degradation ability of multiple pollutants, high photocatalytic cycle stability, and excellent resistance to acids, bases, and ions, which are important for the actual use of photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To mitigate environmental pollution and reduce energy wastes, the Chinese central government has launched a quantitative and binding energy efficiency improvement target since the 11th Five-year-plan. Specific targets were assigned to manufacturing firms since the manufacturing industry is the largest energy user and pollutant emitter. Thus, it is of great significance for manufacturing firms that energy efficiency is improved, however, without impairing output performance. Thus, we first applied an undesirable-output-based data envelopment analysis method to evaluate the energy efficiency and the output efficiency of 269 textile and chemical firms, and then used regression models to investigate the interaction between energy efficiency and output efficiency. We find that in the case of textile firms, energy efficiency is positively correlated with output efficiency. Conversely, textile firms with high output performance usually have high energy efficiency scores. In other words, textile firms can deal with a good trade-off between energy efficiency and output efficiency. Besides, we observe that increases in tax and operating expenses for textile firms impair output and energy efficiency. Moreover, larger firms benefiting from economies of scale have higher output and energy efficiency scores. In contrast, in the case of energy-intensive chemical firms, no such trade-off is found. • Unique firm-level data are used to evaluate energy efficiency of firms in Jiangsu. • The trade-off between output performance and energy efficiency is analyzed. • Textile firms with high performance can balance energy efficiency improvement. • Energy efficiency improvement targets may impair performance of chemical firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An evaluation method was used to assess eco-efficiency scores of 284 Chinese cities. • Spatio-temporal variations of the eco-efficiency scores of 284 cities were analyzed. • Transition effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) on eco-efficiency was examined. • FDI exhibits a pollution halo effect in the later stage of economic development. Foreign direct investment (FDI) has not only been considered to be an important economic engine to promote economic growth in China, but also has played a pivotal role in the ecological environment. Empirically, it may exhibit two conflicting effects, namely, pollution haven effect and pollution halo effect. Hence, it is of great significance of re-examine the effects of FDI on the ecological environment. To this end, we emphasize and identify the transition effects of FDI in the different stages of economic development. In this first step, we employed an extended data envelopment analysis (DEA) method to evaluate the eco-efficiency scores of 284 Chinese cities from 2005 to 2016, based on multi-source data including remote sensing image data and statistical data. In the second step, a panel smooth transition regression (PSTR) model was applied to explore the transition effects of FDI on eco-efficiency. The main findings are as follows. (1) The average eco-efficiency scores presented a U-shaped curve during the sample period. Specifically, it firstly declined from 2005 to 2013, and then the decreasing trend was reversed after 2013. (2) The results of spatial heterogeneity test showed that recently the Low-Low spatial clustering was mainly concentrated on the Central Plain urban agglomeration and the northwestern region while the High-High spatial clustering could be found in three regions, namely the Yangtze River urban agglomeration, the Pearl River Delta urban agglomeration, and the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration. (3) The results of the PSTR models revealed that FDI exhibited different effects on eco-efficiency in the different stages of economic development. Specifically, in the lower stage of economic level, FDI has a negative effect on eco-efficiency. The main reason could be the pollution haven effect. The rapid economic growth causes the increase in environmental awareness. Hence, when the economic level passed a certain threshold (about 79, 000 RMB), FDI contributed to the improvements of eco-efficiency scores, indicating that it became to exhibit the positive pollution halo effect. To conclude, the transition effects of FDI on eco-efficiency have been confirmed. Besides, we also observed that innovation capacity and education level were the foremost contributors to the enhancement of the eco-efficiency of Chinese cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach to acid recovery, diffusion dialysis (DD) has attracted much attention but still suffers from dissatisfactory selectivity and low-efficiency, especially for low-concentration acidic wastewater. Herein, a robust graphene-based composite membrane was fabricated for high-selective acid recovery via DD process from low-concentration acidic solution by starting from graphene oxide (GO) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) mixed dispersion, which was treated by electron beam (E-beam) irradiation and vacuum-filtration in sequence. It was proved that the E-beam irradiation not only initiated the GO reduction, but also caused covalent PVA decoration on sheets, which endowed the obtained composite membrane with tolerance to intense ultrasonication and resistance to swelling in water. Tunable ability to block metal ion permeation and higher H+ permeation than coexisting metal ions also were substantiated, which contributed to around 5.1 × 10−3 m h−1 of H+ dialysis coefficients (U H +) from low-concentration mixed HCl solution (pH = 1, 0.2 mol L−1 metal chloride), rivaling that of commercial DD membrane (DF-120B) from high-concentration acid solution (≥1 mol L−1). More importantly, separation factor from the HCl/FeCl 3 mixed solution reached up to 387.2, an order of magnitude higher than that of DF-120B membrane (24.3) and also superior to most of the reported DD membranes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In suit and dynamic reaction monitoring platform for chiral cysteine. • A customizable optoelectronically functionally coupled microelectrode was designed. • A novel chiral sensor based on microelectrode breaks the traditional template for electrochemical analysis. • The first developed a platform for EC-SERS studies the electrochemical reaction mechanism of cysteine enantiomers. • The proposed method provides ultra-high sensitivity and low detection limits for the detection of D-Cys. A novel concept for the development of chiral sensor is proposed based on electrochemical phase transformation of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), which is shown for in situ photoelectric cooperative analysis mode. To demonstrate this, self-assembled Ag NPs on gold microelectrode (Ag-Au ME) serve as the sensing platform for chiral cysteine (D/L-Cys) detection. Through differences in the specific binding force, the system was validated with efficient synergistic electrochemical redox reactions and complexation of D/L-Cys with silver ions, and a novel sensing mode was developed based on the shift of oxidation peak potential of silver ions. In the proposed assay procedure, the simple principle of electrochemical phase transformation of Ag NPs, which can be monitored by electrochemical-surface enhanced Raman scattering (EC-SERS), was used as an in situ , rapid, dynamic analysis strategy for improving the detection sensitivity. Moreover, the proposed assay strategy with satisfactory sensitivity up to 74.88 μA μM−1 cm−2 was achieved, the limit of detection (LOD) is reduced to nanomolar level (8.7 nM) for D-Cys. Going beyond the conventional chiral biosensing, more importantly, the elaborate dynamic coupling of multiple mechanisms in a micro/nanoscale interface may provide a new approach for future highly sensitive biosensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The miniature sensor has become one of the most popular tools for electroactive biomarker molecule sensing, but the challenge for preparing microelectrodes of hybrid materials still exists. In this contribution, we report a novel strategy for constructing a hybrid nitrogen-doped graphene microelectrode (NGR ME) to efficiently and reliably detect neurotransmitters. The construction procedure is a simple, green, easy-to-operate multistep assembly sequence coated on a customizable micro/nanoscale substrate. Meanwhile, polydopamine (PDA) is a biologically friendly polymer and playing multiple roles. It starts from classic adhesion ability on micro/nanoscale substrates, and its rich amino functional groups electrostatically adsorbed with graphene oxide (GO). Finally, it provided a nitrogen source for nitrogen atom doping in hybrid graphene materials. Since the self-assembled multilayers undergo a pyrolysis process, the synergistic interaction between the multilayers has endowed the microelectrodes excellent electrical conductivity and electrocatalytic performance. This work demonstrates our approach to designing microelectrodes with customizable sizes, proving that it can be used for neurotransmitter sensing with high sensitivity, excellent selectivity and low detection limit (0.69 nM for DA, 6.5 nM for 5-HT), and also can be implanted into a cannula to make a portable and micro-volume device for detecting real human serum samples, which demonstrates promising prospects in clinical diagnosis. Unlabelled Image • A low-cost and facile strategy based on pyrolytic multistep assembly layer for the development of microelectrode. • The nitrogen-doped graphene microelectrode fills a gap in traditional techniques in achieving in-situ nitrogen doping. • A novel portable and micro-volume biosensor was used to detect real human serum samples. • The biosensor has outstanding sensitivity and selectivity compared with other carbon-based electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury (MIRI) is a major hindrance to the success of cardiac reperfusion therapy. Although increased neutrophil infiltration is a hallmark of MIRI, the subtypes and alterations of neutrophils in this process remain unclear. Here, we performed single-cell sequencing of cardiac CD45+ cells isolated from the murine myocardium subjected to MIRI at six-time points. We identified diverse types of infiltrating immune cells and their dynamic changes during MIRI. Cardiac neutrophils showed the most immediate response and largest changes and featured with functionally heterogeneous subpopulations, including Ccl3hi Neu and Ym-1hi Neu, which were increased at 6 h and 1 d after reperfusion, respectively. Ym-1hi Neu selectively expressed genes with protective effects and was, therefore, identified as a novel specific type of cardiac cell in the injured heart. Further analysis indicated that neutrophils and their subtypes orchestrated subsequent immune responses in the cardiac tissues, especially instructing the response of macrophages. The abundance of Ym-1hi Neu was closely correlated with the therapeutic efficacy of MIRI when neutrophils were specifically targeted by anti-Lymphocyte antigen 6 complex locus G6D (Ly6G) or anti-Intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) neutralizing antibodies. In addition, a neutrophil subtype with the same phenotype as Ym-1hi Neu was detected in clinical samples and correlated with prognosis. Ym-1 inhibition exacerbated myocardial injury, whereas Ym-1 supplementation significantly ameliorated injury in MIRI mice, which was attributed to the tilt of Ym-1 on the polarization of macrophages toward the repair phenotype in myocardial tissue. Overall, our findings reveal the anti-inflammatory phenotype of Ym-1hi Neu and highlight its critical role in myocardial protection during the early stages of MIRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abundant oxygenated functional groups endow graphene oxide (GO) excellent proton transport performance and potential to proton conductive membranes construction. Herein, a GO-based membrane was prepared as a separation barrier to recover acid from the low concentration acidic aqueous solution (0.1 mol L−1 HCl) via diffusion dialysis, by intercalating cross-linkable imidazolium cation into GO laminates and subsequent crosslinking via electron beam irradiation. The crosslinked imidazolium-intercalated GO membrane exhibited excellent mechanical durability and dimensional stability in aqueous media. The acidic recovery tests demonstrated that the obtained GO membrane exhibited good proton permeation and outstanding selectivity from diffusion dialysis of different acidic aqueous solutions containing co-existing metallic ions. The best performance in terms of acid recovery was obtained with ferric HCl solution (pH = 1, 0.2 mol L−1 Fe3+) as the feed solution, which showed 9.7 × 10−3 m h−1 of dialysis coefficient (U H +) and 141.2 of separation factor during diffusion dialysis, indicating high selectivity in acid recovery. This work demonstrates the feasibility of GO-based membranes for selective acid recovery from the low concentration acidic aqueous solution, and provides a new strategy to construct various 2D materials-based membranes for selective separation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Satellite observations show that SO2 pollution has been substantially reduced. • The North China Plain has the most severe SO2 pollution in China. • Industrial change is a foremost contributor to reducing SO2 pollution. • Technological progress plays a key role in SO2 pollution reduction. • SO2 pollution in China is attributed to a large amount of energy consumption. China has not only witnessed unprecedented economic success but has also suffered from severe sulfur dioxide (SO 2) dominated air pollution for years. However, satellite observations show that SO 2 concentrations have been substantially reduced in recent years, while the economy in China still grows at a rapid pace. In this study, we explored the possible reasons behind such coordination by using satellite observations and economic model simulations. The findings are as follows. (1) Since 2011, SO 2 pollution over China has been substantially reduced and the most highly polluted area is mainly observed in the North China Plain. (2) The Moran's I test results show that SO 2 pollution presents positive spatial autocorrelation. (3) Industrial upgrades, foreign direct investment and technological progress are the principal contributors to the significant reductions of SO 2 concentrations, which helps explore the mechanism behind the coordination between SO 2 pollution control and rapid economic growth in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Trypsin-like serine proteases (TLSPs), are members of the serine protease family and play important roles in innate immune responses. There are no previous studies regarding the role of TLSPs in immune responses to Spiroplasma eriocheiris in Eriocheir sinensis. In this paper, two TLSPs were identified from E. sinensis , namely EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II. Phylogenetic analysis showed that EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II clustered into two different groups that the crustaceans within each group were specifically. Tissue distribution analysis indicated that both EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II were mostly expressed in hemocytes, in the gill and in the intestine. The EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II transcription levels in hemocytes significantly increased after infection with S. eriocheiris. After dsRNA interference, the expression of both EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II distinctively declined from 48 h to 96 h. The expression of proPO and beta-1,3-glucan binding protein (LGBP) were also notably reduced after silencing. Compared to the control group, the copy number of S. eriocheiris increased significantly in interfering EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II groups during S. eriocheiris infection. Meanwhile, the mortality of crabs in the silenced EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II groups was higher than in the control group after the S. eriocheiris challenge. The results indicate that EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II play important roles in the innate immune system of Eriocheir sinensis, in combating infections of S. eriocheiris. Highlights • EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II were involved in the immune responses of E. sinensis to S. eriocheiris challenge. • EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II are part of the innate immnue system activating the proPO system. • The copies of S. eriocheiris and crabs' death rate were notably increased in EsTLSP-I and EsTLSP-II RNAi assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Y 2 O 3 -MgO nanocomposite powder was synthesized by a microwave technique and doped into gas-pressure sintered BN/Si 3 N 4 composites to acquire a highly wave-transparent material that could be utilized in spacecrafts. The XRD and SEM analyses indicated that the main phases were rod-like β-Si 3 N 4 particles and MgSiO 3. In this case, a BN/Si 3 N 4 ceramic with 8 wt% Y 2 O 3 -MgO nanopowder displayed a density of 2.5 g/cm3. The permittivity and transmission efficiency were approximately 4.6% and 71.4%, respectively, at frequencies of 8.2–12.4 GHz, which achieved the best overall wave-transparent performance. The porosity of the material in combination with the inclusion of the boron nitride component creates a synergistic effect that appears to contribute to wave-transparent efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semicoke derived from lignite and biomass has been utilized in soil remediation and activated sludge treatment. Nitrogen-doping treatment has been utilized to improve adsorption capacity of semicoke for phenols (such as humic acids). Known as nitrogen-rich biomass residue, spent coffee grounds (SCG) may serve as nitrogen resources when co-pyrolyzed with lignite. But impacts of SCG on structure and adsorption capacity of semicoke in co-pyrolysis have not been confirmed. In consideration of proteins in SCG, nitrogen fixation and the impacting mechanism have not been sufficiently confirmed. In this work, nitrogen fixation between lignite and SCG during co-pyrolysis were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and pyrolysis experiments. Corresponding mechanism were speculated and confirmed by in-situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transformation spectra (DRIFT) and mass spectrum (MS). Impacts of nitrogen fixation on adsorption of phenols on semicoke were investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), adsorption kinetics analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Compared to theoretical values, higher contents of N have been obtained in co-pyrolyzed semicoke (N: 2.89%; pyridinic N: 44.86%), which implied N fixation and cyclization reactions. Fixation mechanism can be explained by formation of Amadori/Heyns intermediates in Maillard reactions. Release of volatiles and capture of NH 3 are crucial in 340–440 °C range, which result in nitrogen fixation. Then formation of pyrrolic and pyridinic N can be explained by cyclization reactions and decomposition of Amadori/Heyns intermediates in 550 °C pyrolysis. Enrichment of pyridinic N, pyrrolic N and C O might enhance adsorption of phenols by offering binding sites for formation of hydrogen bonds. Both C, N fixation and improved adsorption capacity (27.80 mg/g) have been realized for 7:3–550 semicoke. Consequently, doping treatment with typical nitrogen-rich biomass (SCG) may be feasible to enhance adsorption of phenols onto semicoke, based on selection of raw materials and pyrolysis conditions. • N-rich biomass residue and lignite were co-pyrolyzed for nitrogen fixation. • Role of Maillard reactions in nitrogen fixation was emphasized. • Co-pyrolysis conditions can be selected based on structure-activity relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel green-emitting Yb 3+ and Tb 3+ co-doped LaNbO 4 particles were prepared through a facile sol-gel and combustion method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA), up-conversion luminescence (UCL) with different powers and varied concentrations, and luminescent lifetimes were employed to test the prepared samples. The XRD data exhibit that a sample with high crystallinity can be acquired at 1000 °C. FE-SEM images show homogeneous and spherical grains after Yb 3+ and Tb 3+ are co-doped in the LaNbO 4 samples. TG-DTA reveals that the LaNbO 4 synthetic process is accompanied by a temperature increase. In our work, we utilize a 980 nm laser to excite Yb 3+ ions to achieve the 2 F 7/2 → 2 F 5/2 transition, and the LaNbO 4 :Yb 3+ , Tb 3+ sample exhibits intense green emission. Luminescent spectra at different powers demonstrated the two-photon absorption process; meanwhile, the corresponding energy transfer mechanism from Yb 3+ to Tb 3+ and the emission of Tb 3+ under 980 nm laser excitation was described via an energy level diagram. Moreover, concentration-dependent up-conversion luminescent properties were systematically explored, and it was confirmed that LaNbO 4 :0.15Yb 3+ ,0.02Tb 3+ exhibits the strongest luminescent properties. In particular, as the content of Yb 3+ ions increases, the 5 D 4 → 7 F 6 transition quickly becomes stronger, resulting in the emitted color shifting from green to blue. Therefore, the emitted color can be tuned by adjusting the content of Yb 3+ ions. The excellent up-conversion emission properties of the obtained samples allow for their potential application in the fields of 3D display technologies and solid-state lasers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly crystalline mesoporous zirconia fibers with high surface area have been prepared by the use of electrospinning combined with precursors method. The obtained precursor fibers were treated in water steam and directly in air at different temperature respectively. Compared with the direct calcination in air, the water steam cannot only promote the crystallization of ZrO 2 but also effectively remove off the organics and prevent the pore structure collapse. Moreover, through adding hydrochloric acid to modify the solution pH value, the obtained t-ZrO 2 fibers treated in water steam at 300 °C have high surface area and large pore volume of 232.70 m 2 g −1 and 0.36 cm 3 g −1 . The formation mechanism of the mesostucture was studied and the schematic was represented. Compared with the previous reports of mesoporous ZrO 2 fibers, the as-synthesized materials exhibited the high crystallinity, large surface area and the long-range order mesostructure.The adsorption of Congo red indicates that the samples have a high adsorption capacity of 103.46 mg g −1 and long-periodic repeated availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]