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The exploration of gas sensing materials holds significant importance for practical applications. This work introduces a novel SnO 2 /MnO 2 nanocomposite designed to achieve formaldehyde monitoring at ppb level with a relative low temperature. The as prepared sensor demonstrates a response of 8.1–50 ppb formaldehyde at 100 °C. These remarkable formaldehyde sensing capabilities were explained by the heterojunction structure of the composite, and the low-temperature catalytic properties of MnO 2. Moreover, in-situ infrared reflectance spectroscopy was employed to investigate the underlying mechanism by monitoring the evolution of reaction intermediates, and the result suggested that the addition of MnO 2 can reduce the ineffective occupation of active sites and promote the generation of intermediate intermediates. • Heterojunction structure and catalytic effect is combined in one composite. • The response towards 50 ppb of formaldehyde is 8.1 at 100 °C. • The underlying mechanism has been investigated by in-situ DRIFTS. • The addition of catalyst can reduce the ineffective occupation of active sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understand the structure of the ILs/air interface on a molecular level is significant. In this work, the liquid-air interface of a class of ILs containing 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium cations ([Cnmim]+, n = 4, 6 and 8) was investigated by a sum-frequency generation vibrational spectroscopy experiment. The length of the alkyl chain of cations and anion type (tetrafluoroborate ([BF4]−), thiocyanate ([SCN]−), dicyanamide ([DCA]−), hexafluorophosphate ([PF6]−)) were varied to determine their intrinsic effects to the micro-structure on the interface. Meanwhile, combining with the experiment, the orientation angle and surface density for cations and anions of ILs at the air interface was analyzed by molecular dynamics simulation. It is found that the butyl side chain of cations protrudes out into the air as well as the orientation angle between the side chain and interface is 30°–50°. Meanwhile, the anion volume of ILs has almost no influence on the butyl side chain and the methyl on the side chains tend almost planar to the interface with the increased chain length. This research is highly significant for the theoretical and quantitative understanding of the interface chemistry of imidazole-based ILs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chiral resolution of binaphthylamine is often a toilful conundrum in the field of analytical chemistry and biomedicine. The work puts forward a selective, sensitive, and miniaturized analytical method based on molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) as adsorbent for miniaturized tip solid‐phase extraction (MTSPE) in the separation of binaphthylamine enantiomer. This method combines the advantages of MIPs (high selectivity), MTSPE (low consumption), and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC, high sensitivity). A simple synthesis methodology of MIP (P2) was conducted through bulk polymerization with (S)‐(−)‐1,1′‐binaphthyl‐2,2′‐diamine (S‐DABN) as template together with methacrylic acid monomer, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as cross‐linker in proper porogen, realizing a selective recognition and efficient enrichment for S‐DABN. The method exhibited appreciable linearity (0.06–1.00 mg ml−1), low quantification limit (0.056 mg ml−1), good absolute recoveries (45.70%–69.29%), and high precision (relative standard deviations ≤ 3.54%), along with low consumption (0.50 ml sample solution and 25.0 mg adsorbent). Based on the density functional theory, computational simulation was used to make a preliminary prediction for rational design of MIPs and gave a reasonable elaboration involving the potential mechanism of templates interacting with functional monomers. The adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics were investigated to evaluate the recombination process of substrates. In addition, the selectivity of MIPs for S‐DABN was obtained by MIP‐MTSPE coupled with HPLC, which supports the feasibility of this convenient design process. The proposed method was employed for selective extraction of S‐DABN and exhibited promising potential in the application of chiral analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing solid‐state electrolytes with good compatibility for high‐voltage cathodes and reliable operation of batteries over a wide‐temperature‐range are two bottleneck requirements for practical applications of solid‐state metal batteries (SSMBs). Here, an in situ quasi solid‐state poly‐ether electrolyte (SPEE) with a nano‐hierarchical design is reported. A solid‐eutectic electrolyte is employed on the cathode surface to achieve highly‐stable performance in thermodynamic and electrochemical aspects. This performance is mainly due to an improved compatibility in the electrode/electrolyte interface by nano‐hierarchical SPEE and a reinforced interface stability, resulting in superb‐cyclic stability in Li||Li symmetric batteries (>4000 h at 1 mA cm−2/1 mAh cm−2; >2000 h at 1 mA cm−2/4 mAh cm−2), which are the same for Na, K, and Zn batteries. The SPEE enables outstanding cycle‐stability for wide‐temperature operation (15–100 °C) and 4 V‐above batteries (Li||LiCoO2 and Li||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2). The work paves the way for development of practical SSMBs that meet the demands for wide‐temperature applicability, high‐energy density, long lifespan, and mass production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A lightning current measurement method using a Rogowski coil based on an integral circuit with low-frequency attenuation feedback was proposed to address the issue of low-frequency distortion in the measurement of lightning currents on transmission lines using Rogowski coils. Firstly, the causes of low-frequency distortion in lightning current measurements using Rogowski coils were analyzed from the perspective of frequency domains. On this basis, an integration correction optimization circuit with a low-frequency attenuation feedback network was designed to correct the low-frequency distortion. The optimized integration circuit can also reduce the impact of low-frequency noise and the DC bias of the operational amplifier (op-amp) on the integration circuit due to the high low-frequency gain. Additionally, a high-pass filtering and voltage-divided sampling circuit has been added to ensure the normal operation of the integrator and improve the measurement range of the measurement system. Then, according to the relationship between the amplitude–frequency characteristics of the measurement system and the parameters of each component, the appropriate types of components and op-amp were selected to expand the measurement bandwidth. Finally, a simulation verification was conducted, and the simulation results show that this measurement method can effectively expand the lower measurement frequency limit to 20 Hz, correct the low-frequency distortion caused by Rogowski coils measuring lightning currents on transmission lines, and accurately restore the measured lightning current waveform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-based luminescent nanomaterials have attracted much attention in the biomedical field. Compared to traditional photoluminescent materials (such as rare earth-based semiconductors and organic dyes), they have excellent biocompatibility, low toxicity, excellent optical stability and site-targeting properties in addition to their low cost and environmentally friendly features. Carbon dots, a typical carbon-based luminescent material, have great application potential in biomedicine, biological imaging and optoelectronics. Actual biological imaging, however, uses low-level photon scattering and light absorption to avoid self-fluorescence by the target tissues, requiring the light waves to have strong tissue penetration ability. Long wavelength (red and near-infrared) is known to have strong tissue penetration. However, carbon dots in the long wavelength region give a low quantum yield. Thus, obtaining long wavelength-emitting carbon dots with high quantum yield is a big challenge in practical bioimaging and phototherapy. In this paper, recent progress in the development of long wavelength, strongly luminescence-emitting carbon dots, the mechanisms and methods to regulate their optical properties and improve their quantum yield are reviewed. Recent applications of carbon dots in biosensing, bioimaging and therapy are described. Finally, the future challenges and prospects of long wavelength carbon-based luminescent materials are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We synthesized oxygen-incorporated MoS 2 ultrathin nanosheets by oxygen adsorbate. • The CPAF not only acts as a conductive template but also oxygen tank. • MoS 2 nanosheets expose more catalytically active edges grown on the CPAF surface. • The O-MoS 2 -CPAF catalyst exhibited a low onset potential of 0.088 V for HER. Developing highly-efficient and low-cost non-precious metal electrocatalysts toward the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a promising strategy to solve the environmental pollution problems and energy demands. In this study, we synthesized oxygen-incorporated molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2) ultrathin nanosheets with expanded interlayer spacing (∼9.3 Å) induced by oxygen adsorbate, i.e., carbonized porous aromatic framework (CPAF), through a facile hydrothermal method. The CPAF not only acts as a conductive template but also oxygen tank , which enhances the transport of electrons of the MoS 2 -based electrocatalysts and provides oxygen for O-MoS 2 nanosheets. Owing to the high specific surface area, conductive template and oxygen source of CPAF, MoS 2 nanosheets can grow densely and uniformly on the CPAF surface, exposing catalytically active edges effectively. The O-MoS 2 -CPAF catalyst exhibited significantly improved catalytic activity toward hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) with a low onset potential of 0.088 V, a large current density (10.0 mA cm−2 at 0.17 V), a small Tafel slope of 44 mV per decade as well as excellent stability and device performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multicolor carbon dots (CDs) as an emerging subclass of carbonaceous nanomaterials have inspired intensive attention due to the fascinating fluorogenic properties of quantum dots, exhibiting great potential applications in the biomedical field. In some cases, reported CDs with blue or green fluorescence are not desirable for further biological applications owing to the conflicting background autofluorescence, low penetration, and relatively large damage to biological tissue. However, multicolor CDs that can work in the longer wavelength region are being developed to address this issue by overcoming the autofluorescence from the cellular components (usually in the blue and green range). In this review, the development of multicolor CDs is described comprehensively, including for red‐emissive or NIR‐emissive CDs. Additionally, the preparation methods of multicolor CDs are summarized. Moreover, the factors affecting the luminescence of multicolor CDs are discussed in detail, and the biomedical applications are emphasized from multiple perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the unique optical properties and excellent biological applications, carbon-based luminescent materials have become a research hotspot in recent years. In this paper, we report a synthesis method under mild condition, in which Carbon NanoCrystals (CNCs) were first prepared, and then high-purity multi-color carbon dots (HPMCCDs) were synthesized by modulating crystal morphology. The prepared nonfluorescent CNCs are, respectively, dissolved in a strong polar solvent and a weak polar solvent to prepare HPMCCDs. It exhibits the multi-excitation and multi-emission features (from green to yellow). The high-purity carbon dots (HPCDs) prepared by using this method demonstrate the higher quantum yields (QYs) (53.7%) than that of the carbon dots (CD) by traditional hydrothermal methods with dialysis, and make full use of the atomic economic model. Besides, it shows the unique up-conversion luminescence property (UCLP) at lower wavelength excitation and, which can also be placed for a long time at room temperature without being oxidized or deteriorated. Furthermore, we explored the regulation of polar-chromism mechanism of the CNCs. Finally, the HPMCCDs can be used for multi-color bioimaging in vivo and in vitro and as well as many other potential applications. A synthesis method under the mild condition, in which carbon nanocrystals (Carbon Nano-Crystals, CNCs) were firstly prepared, and then high-purity multi-color carbon dots (HPMCCDs) were synthesized by modulating crystal morphology, was reported. The CNCs are respectively dissolved in a strong polar solvent and a weak polar solvent to obtain the HPMCCDs. The prepared HPMCCDs exhibit multi-excitation, multi-emission and unique up-conversion luminescence features. Furthermore, the regulation of polar-chromism mechanism of the CNCs was explored. Finally, the HPMCCDs can be used for multi-color bioimaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, two multicolor CDs have been prepared with eco-friendly folic acid and glucose as precursors by means of a facile hydrothermal strategy. The microscopic and spectroscopic results comprehensively confirmed that both of them exhibited well-defined spherical particles, amorphous structures and similar surface chemistry properties, but with different lateral dimensions and element contents. Moreover, CDs1 and CDs2 show the favorable biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity, in vitro and in vivo CLSM images of HeLa cells and zebrafish larvae tagged with CDs1 and CDs2 revealed multicolor emission (blue, green and red) at different excitation wavelengths. More importantly, the fluorescence of CDs1 could be remarkably enhanced with the increase of Mn2+ concentration in aqueous solution through the bonding of Mn2+ with C–OH and N–H groups on the surface of CDs1. A wide linear range was obtained from 0.5 to 90 μ M with a detection limit of 0.42 μ M. • The CDs with multicolor emission at different excitation were obtained successfully. • The multicolor CDs can be used for living bioimaging. • Mn2+-triggered fluorescence enhancement of the CDs was used for sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-based luminescent materials have attracted much attention of many researchers in recent years for its better optical properties and biological applications. In this paper, we report the full-color CDs (from blue to red) with better quality red emissive by a facile and efficient synthesis route. The CDs show multiple red-emission tuning, unique nature of up-conversion photoluminescent under lower excitation and single-particle photoluminescent. The luminescence mechanism was also explored preliminarily. Especially, the results demonstrate that full-color CDs with multiple red wavelength tuning were achieved successfully by using only one precursor and this phenomenon was reasonably explored by using solvatochromism mechanism instead of only excitation-dependent or emission tuning. Moreover, the multicolor FL emission of CDs is caused by single particles rather than a mixture with diverse photoluminescent, which can be expanded to precision manufacture field on luminance, but not just limited to multidimensions biosensing. In addition, UCPL under lower excitation implies the more important potential applications in surface layer bioimaging, microarray detection and light activation technology in vivo and in vitro. The full-color CDs show high quantum yield (73.89%) and superior anti-photobleaching. Multicolor bioimaging, in vitro and in vivo, indicates its low toxicity in Hela cells and zebrafish. Besides, the as-prepared CDs were successfully used for multidimensions sensing, as Fe3+ metal ion sensing (on/off). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic hydrogen production via water splitting using metal oxide semiconductors has attract great interests because of the two electrons on the kinetics. Pristine Co 3 O 4 was widely studied as efficient photocatalyst, but prefers to produce oxygen due to its lower band-edge positions with regard to water redox potentials. In this work, high efficient photocatalyst basing on non-noble La doped Co 3 O 4 on graphene, i.e. , La x Co 3-x O 4 /G, were first reported and prepared by the microwave hydrothermal synthesis. In this newly developed hybrids, La and Co ions were adsorbed on the surface of graphene (G) and subsequently reacted with ammonia to yield the La x Co 3-x O 4 /G nanohybrid by in-situ chemical deposition methods. The activity for hydrogen generation of the nanohybrid exhibits 2 times higher than undoped Co 3 O 4 /G under visible light irradiation. The H 2 evolution of nanohybrid reaches 6.543 mmol g −1 h −1 when the molar ratio of La/Co is 10% in the nanohybrid. Our experimental results indicate the incorporation of La doped in the Co 3 O 4 crystal lattice not only forms the lattice defects, resulting in provision for capture trap and the separation of electrons and holes, but also changes the band structure to eventually improve the photocatalytic activity under visible light. Therefore, non-noble La is a promising substitute to prepare highly efficient hydrogen photocatalyst and can be extendedly applied to the other metal oxide semiconductors for solar hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a simple solution-based method to synthesize phase- and size-controllable ZnS nanoparticles at low temperature. Cubic ZnS (c-ZnS) and hexagonal ZnS nanoparticles (h-ZnS) were obtained by heating an aqueous solution of Zn(NO)·6HO and NaSO·5HO at different temperatures. When the system was heated at 65 °C for 24 h, hexagonal crystal structure of ZnS nanoparticles, with size of 50-350 nm, was obtained, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction and selected-area electron diffraction. When the reaction temperature was 100 °C under hydrothermal condition, c-ZnS nanoparticles were obtained and exhibited monodisperse nanoparticles with average size of 4 nm. Proper rate of S releasing tuned by the variation of pH value is believed to be critical to stabilize the hexagonal ZnS nanoparticles. Compared with large size of h-ZnS nanoparticles, c-ZnS nanoparticles show higher photocatalytic activity in degrading methyl orange (MO). The degradation efficiency of c-ZnS nanoparticles reaches 97% under UV irradiation for 120 min. The good ultraviolet absorbing ability, charge separation property, and large surface area of c-ZnS nanoparticles are believed to have a positive impact on improving the degradation rate and degradation efficiency of MO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural gas (NG), as a renewable and clean energy gas, is considered to be one of the most attractive energy carriers owing to its high calorific value, low price, and less pollution. Efficiently capturing CO2 from NG is a very important issue since CO2 reduces energy density of natural gas and corrodes equipment in the presence of water. In this study, the authors use holey graphene-like carbon derived from covalent organic polymers (COP) impregnated with nonprecious metals, i.e., COP graphene, as highly efficient separation materials. The dual-site Langmuir-Freundlich adsorption model based ideal absorbed solution theory is applied to explore the adsorption selectivity. The experimental results along with first principles calculations show Mn-impregnated COP graphene exhibits greater CO2/CH4 selectivity than Fe and Co impregnated materials. Particularly, the selectivity of C-COP-P-Mn reaches 11.4 at 298 K and 12 bars, which are much higher than those in many reported conventional porous materials and can be compared to the highest separation performance under similar condition. Importantly, all the three COP graphene show remarkably high regenerability ( R > 77%), which are much better than many reported promising zeolites, active carbon, and metal organic frameworks. Accordingly, COP graphene are promising cyclic adsorbents with high selectivity for separation and purification of CO2 from natural gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) tend to aggregate to heavily tangled bundles due to the strong van der Waals attraction. Ionic liquids (ILs) are a kind of newly proposed solvents in which SWNT can be physically well dispersed. In this article, the cylindrical interface has been investigated by molecular dynamics simulation between IL of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmim][BF4]) and an infinite long armchair (6,6) SWNT. The highly ordered structure of the cations and anions is elucidated by the simulation results. Two evident dense layers are found for both the cations and anions along the surface normal direction of the SWNT. In addition, we have observed two different orientation patterns of the cations in the first layer. In sublayer 1A, which is the nearest to the surface, the imidazolium rings of the cations prefer to be parallel to the surface, with a slight tilt angle less than 15°. In sublayer 1B, they tend to be perpendicular to the surface, with their butyl chains appearing in sublayer 1A. The [BF4]− anions are found to cling to the nanotube surface with three fluoride atoms, also indicating a highly ordered orientation. The simulation results in this work provide a clue to understand the stabilisation and dispersion of SWNT bundles in ILs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fluorinated ether and liquid crystal were used to form compatible interface. • Regulated stable lithium interfaces were realized via free radical graft. • Optimized SSEs exhibits superior ionic conductivity and robust mechanical strength. • Room-temperature SSLMBs show excellent electrochemical performance. The poor compatibility of the electrodes/solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) interfaces of rechargeable room-temperature solid-state lithium metal batteries (RTSSLMBs) limit their rapid development and commercialization. Herein, fluorinated ether as a block and liquid crystal 4,4′'-Azoxyanisole as an additive are firstly used to fabricate robust SSEs for RTSSLMBs. A combination of in-situ polymerization and the construction of stable interfaces is employed to obtain excellent cycling performance in LMBs. We propose the mechanism of regulating the lithium anode interfaces by 4,4′'-Azoxyanisole with high anchoring strength in SSEs. Liquid crystal with high anchoring strength ensures the smooth electrodeposition of lithium metal, and fluorinated ether provides rich LiF for SEI, which is beneficial to inhibit the growth of lithium dendrite. The electrochemical test shows that symmetrical lithium batteries maintain steadily operation over 3500 h. Further, the novel 3D fiber-network SPEs exhibit high ionic conductivity of 0.13 mS/cm at room temperature, a wide electrochemical stability window of 4.9 V, a high lithium-ion transference number of 0.42, and better mechanical strength (Young's modulus of 6.3 GPa). As a consequence, superior cycling stability is demonstraced in Li/LiFePO 4 batteries at ambient temperature. In addition, the reaction mechanism is verified by density functional theory calculations and various electrochemical characterizations. This new and universal strategy may be a new route to suppress Li dendrites, it will be helpful for the commercialization and application of RTSSLMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new approach for reducing the contour errors in two-dimensional CNC machines is presented in this study. In the approach proposed here, two pre-trained nonlinear autoregressive networks with exogenous inputs (NARX), one for each axis, are used to predict the output position of the machine in the next sampling instant. The contour error in the next instant is then estimated and, based on this, the required compensation terms to be added to the reference input positions to reduce the contour error are determined. In the proposed approach, the compensation terms can be updated through an iteration process which reduces the contour error each time. Simulation experiments applying this approach to linear, circular and parabolic contours show that, even without extensive training of the NARX models, the contour errors can be significantly reduced. Actual experiments conducted on a small two-axis CNC machine confirm the effectiveness of this approach in reducing contour errors for linear, circular, parabolic and a free-form “goggles” contours. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Computer numerical control (CNC) machines are now widely used in the manufacturing industry. There is an increasing need for lower-costing machines capable of high precision machining. To achieve high precision machining, the motions of the axes of these machine tools need to be controlled precisely so that they follow a desired path, or contour, accurately. This paper discusses some of the factors that can affect the accuracy of the contour generated. Also discussed are some compensation approaches to compensating the geometrical errors of these machines so as to achieve precision results even with not-so-accurately build machines. Also presented and discussed are the results of approaches taken in improving contouring accuracy through the design and tuning of the machine axis controllers as well as some contour path compensation approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Cross-coupled control (CCC) is a well-known approach for directly reducing contour errors on contouring systems instead of the indirect approach of reducing axial following errors. An improvement of this approach, the variable-gain CCC, extends its applicability from just the linear contour to any contour defined by a continuously differentiable function. In this paper, the basic concept underlying CCC is used to develop a generalized CCC (GCCC) approach which can be applied for any free-form contour, including those defined only by a series of (x,y) coordinates similar to the reference inputs to CNC machines. Both computer simulation and actual experimental implementation of GCCC on a small two-axis CNC machine using four contours showed that it can effectively reduce the contour errors resulting from mismatched machine dynamics. For the linear, circular and parabolic contours that CCC can also be applied to, GCCC achieved the same level of contour error reduction. In addition experiments showed that GCCC also achieved similar levels of contour error reductions for free-form contours and for corner tracking. Without the need for a knowledge of the functions of the contours, GCCC is thus most suitable for application to CNC machines in which the contours that are to be generated are defined by a series of reference input axial positions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The model-based Taylor series expansion error compensation (TSEEC) method has been shown to be capable of eliminating contour errors in biaxial CNC machines. However, it has been developed for only linear and circular contours. In this paper, an extension of TSEEC, a generalized TSEEC or GTSEEC, is proposed which is capable of compensating for the contour errors of arbitrary two-dimensional contours. A new real-time algorithm is used to estimate the contour error so that GTSEEC can be applied even in cases where the function of the contour is unknown. Simulation results using linear, circular and parabolic contours are presented which show that, with perfect knowledge of the axial dynamics, GTSEEC can perfectly eliminate the contour errors for any contour, even when there is significant mismatch in the axes'' dynamics. Experiments on a small two-axis computer-controlled machine indicate the effectiveness and better performance of GTSEEC in reducing contour errors for free-form contour following tasks when compared with two other leading approaches, the zero phase error tracking control (ZPETC) and cross-coupled control (CCC). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A simple and novel two-colour fluorescence detector for capillary electrophoresis was created using a single bi-colour light emitting diode (LED), multi-band pass excitation and emission filters and a single detector. Excitation light from a blue/red (470/635 nm) bi-colour LED was filtered through a 390/482/563/640 nm multi-band bandpass filter, with emitted light filtered through a 446/523/600/677 nm multi-band bandpass filter before being detected using a photon counting detector. Sequential pulsing of the blue/red LED and deconvolution of the collected fluorescence data allowed extracted electropherograms to be obtained corresponding to excitation with the blue and red LEDs. Optimisation of the pulsed LED conditions revealed an optimum LED on-time of 50 ms, off-time of 30 ms with a pulsed current of 40 mA, giving an effective data acquisition rate of 6.25 Hz. The characteristics of this system were validated by the simultaneous separation and determination of six fluorescent dyes: fluorescein, FITC, coumarin 334, dibromo(R)fluorescein (Ex/Em 470/525 nm), and Cy 5 and the Agilent Bioanalyser DNA dye (Ex/Em 635/670 nm). Under optimum conditions, the detection limits for FITC, fluorescein and Cy 5 were 69 nM, 42 nM and 289 nM (S/N= 3), respectively. These were lower than those obtained with continuous operation of the individual wavelengths at a constant current of 20 mA, but were slightly higher than those obtained using dedicated single wavelength filter combinations designed specifically for use with these fluorophores. The intraday repeatability (n= 6) of migration times was less than 1.0% and less than 3.4% for peak areas, while interday (n= 3) migration time and peak area reproducibility were less than 0.9% and 3.6%, respectively. This simple detector is capable of performing quantitative two-wavelength excitation without the need for complex optics and light source configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A novel instrument was developed using a multi-wavelength pulsed LED array with in-column optic-fiber induced fluorescence detection by capillary electrophoresis. The light from 2 different wavelength LEDs (450nm and 480nm) was pulsed for short intervals at high intensity. The beam from each LED was collimated and reshaped with the gradient index (GRIN) lens group to achieve a highly effective coupling between LED light source and an optical fiber. The optical fiber was placed inside the capillary for in-capillary LED-induced fluorescence detection. The advantages of this system were validated by the simultaneous determination of vitamin B2 and fluorescein. Detection limits for vitamin B2 and fluorescein were estimated to be 5nM and 0.29nM (S/N =3), respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSDs, n =6) of the both compounds for migration time and peak area were better than 0.83%, 2.20% and 1.21%, 2.75%, respectively. The method was applied to the determination of vitamin B2 in commercial tablets and fluorescein in fluorescein sodium injection and the recoveries obtained were in the range of 96.6–102.0% and 99.9–102.8%, respectively. It was also applied to human serum, where the recoveries were found to be in the range of 94.4–97.0% and 92.6–96.4%, respectively. The system has been successfully applied in separation and determination of the both biological samples with acceptable analytical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Au 11 (SG) 7 gold nanoparticles were synthesized successfully. • AIE mechanism of Au 11 (SG) 7 induced by metal ions was explored sufficiently. • The selectivity of Au 11 (SG) 7 for some metal ions was detailed. • The AIE of Au 11 (SG) 7 induced by metal was used for living imaging. Au 11 (SG) 7 gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were synthesized from HAuCl 4 using thiol compounds containing an amino group to serve as both the reducing agent and the ligand. A three-dimensional network structure (...Au-SNH 2 →Mn+⟵H 2 NS-Au...) was formed after the Mn+ (Pb2+, Cd2+, Zn2+ and Ag+) coordinated the gold nanoparticles through the amino group in the thiol ligand, which promoted aurophilicity (...Au...Au...) and induced GNP aggregation and emission. The differences in coordination between the amino group and metal ions resulted in different emission wavelengths (Pb2+, Cd2+, Zn2+ and Ag+: λ ex = 365 nm˜370 nm, λ em = 580, 645, 630 and 565 nm). Aggregation induced emission of amino thiol capped GNPs via coordination of Pb2+ or Cd2+ can be used as a fluorescent sensor of the both metal ions (λ ex = 365 nm, λ em = 580/645 nm) and were used for living bioimaging in vivo and in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low energy density, safety concerns, and high cost associated with conventional lithium‐ion batteries pose challenges in meeting the growing demands of emerging applications. While lithiumsulfur batteries (LSBs) offer high specific capacity, their commercial viability is hindered by the prevalent issue of shuttle effects. Furthermore, the potential of solid‐state lithium batteries is constrained by the suboptimal ionic conductivity and significant interphase problems. High‐entropy materials (HEMs) have emerged as a strategic approach for the development of innovative materials possessing exceptional properties. In recent times, some studies have been undertaken to explore the potential of HEMs in lithium‐based rechargeable batteries, showcasing their favorable characteristics. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of various factors associated with HEM materials, encompassing elements, structure, and morphology, on the reversibility of reactions and cycling stability. This work also presents an analysis of the effects of elements and morphology on the properties of HEMs in LSBs, which can trap soluble lithium polysulfides and enhance reaction kinetics. Additionally, the work provides an overview of high‐entropy electrolytes, including both solid‐state and non‐aqueous liquid electrolytes. Furthermore, the research outlines future research directions aimed at investigating more efficient HEMs and enhancing the overall performance of lithium‐based rechargeable batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the unavoidable use of cerium in daily life, the accumulation of cerium in the environment increases health risks for humans. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a chemical sensing technology for the rapid, sensitive, and selective detection of cerium ions. In this research work, a novel two-dimensional chain structure of a europium-based metal organic framework (Eu-MOF) [Eu 2 (tcpa)(Htcpa) 2 ] was synthesized by using 3,4,5,6-tetrachloro-1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid (H 2 TCPA) as the ligand and europium nitrate as the metal source. The results of powder X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis show that the synthesized Eu-MOF has excellent chemical and thermal stability. When the Eu-MOF suspension was excited by ultraviolet light at 292 nm, four fluorescence emissions were observed at 420, 595, 620 and 705 nm. It was particularly interesting that when cerium ions (Ce3+/Ce4+) were added to the Eu-MOF suspension, the fluorescence intensity at 420 nm was enhanced, while the fluorescence at 620 nm was quenched. On this basis, a ratiometric fluorescent sensor for detecting cerium ions was constructed, which has a good linear relationship in the range of 0.05–15 μM and a detection limit of 16 nM. The plausible mechanism of the change in the fluorescence characteristics of Eu-MOF caused by cerium ions was discussed in detail. Through the study of fluorescence lifetime and ultraviolet absorption, it was proven that the mechanism of Ce3+-quenching Eu-MOF fluorescence is the inner filter effect. Photoinduced electron transfer and internal filtering effects lead to fluorescence quenching at 620 nm, while redox reactions lead to fluorescence enhancement of the ligand at 420 nm. The proposed ratiometric fluorescence sensor was successfully employed for the detection of cerium ions in real water samples, confirming that it can be used as an alternative method for the detection of Ce3+ and Ce4+ in environmental samples. [Display omitted] • A two-dimensional chain structure of europium-based metal organic framework (Eu-MOF) [Eu 2 (tcpa)(Htcpa) 2 ] was synthesized. • Eu-MOF has excellent chemical and thermal stability. • Based on the fluorescence change of Eu-MOF, a ratiometric fluorescence sensor for Ce3+/Ce4+ was constructed. • The interaction between Eu-MOF and Ce3+/Ce4+ and its fluorescence enhancement mechanism were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) are regarded as a highly promising next‐generation energy storage technology due to their exceptional theoretical capacity and energy density. However, the practical application of these batteries is hindered by several challenges, including significant volume change of active materials, severe shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides, inadequate electronic and ionic conductivity, and safety concerns. These issues are particularly pronounced in cathodes with high sulfur loading, which are essential for the effective implementation of LSBs. Binders are an essential constituent of sulfur cathodes, and they perform a crucial function in enhancing the efficacy of LSBs, particularly when subjected to high sulfur loading. A considerable amount of research has been conducted to investigate the potential of multifunctional binders to tackle the aforementioned challenges associated with LSBs. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the various roles that advanced multifunctional binders play in LSBs, including but not limited to preserving electrode integrity, capturing lithium polysulfides, regulating Li2S deposition, accelerating reaction kinetics, enhancing ionic and electronic conductivity, promoting sulfur cathode safety, and safeguarding the environment. Additionally, the paper outlines the challenges and prospects for future research endeavors aimed at creating innovative multifunctional binders and improving the overall performance of LSBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase of voltage levels in substation corona discharge on the surface of high voltage conductors and equipment in substations becoming more and more severe, the influence on the electromagnetic environment around substations is becoming more and more obvious. In order to study the influence of corona discharge on the ground electric field under substation equipment in AC substations, this paper proposes an improved method based on Abdel-Salam's calculation of the ion flow field on AC power lines. By redefining the criterion of corona onset and the amount of emission charge and combining with the migration, motion, and recombination of the space charge, a new model which can be applied to the calculation of AC ion flow field electric field of multiphase bundle conductors in substations is established. The calculation results of the ground power frequency electric field of the conductor at the typical tower in the light, medium, and heavy ice regions of 750 kV typical AC transmission project show that the ground electric field gradually decreases with the increase of conductor height. At the same conductor height, the ground electric field strength in the heavy ice region is the largest, while under the conductor in a light ice region, it is the smallest, and the minimum allowable conductor-to-ground distance can be concluded that the national standard limit value is not exceeded when the conductor-to-ground distance in light ice region is 24.5 m, the conductor-to-ground distance in medium ice region is 25.5 m, and the conductor-to-ground distance in heavy ice region is 26 m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A large number of NH 3 emissions from industries, such as ammonia plant purge gas, tail gases of urea plants and ammonium molybdate plants, inevitably cause serious air pollution problems, such as fog and haze, which has raised extensive attentions worldwide. However, the commercial methods, like water scrubbing and acid scrubbing, substantially transfer the NH 3 pollute from gas phase to liquid or solid phase, which does not mean total elimination. How to realize efficiently separate and recover NH 3 form NH 3 -containing gas mixtures is still a great challenge. In order to develop efficient absorbents for NH 3 removal, a series of metal (copper (Cu), stannum (Sn), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), ferrum (Fe)) ionic liquids (MILs) were synthesized, and their physicochemical properties and NH 3 absorption performance were systematically investigated. The results implied that the incorporation of metal center into ILs has a great effect on NH 3 absorption. Among the investigated MILs, bis(1-butyl-3-methyl imidazolium) copper tetrachloride salt ([Bmim] 2 [CuCl 4 ]) and bis(1-butyl-3-methyl imidazolium) stannum tetrachloride salt ([Bmim] 2 [SnCl 4 ]) show excellent NH 3 absorption capacities up to 0.172 gNH 3 ·gIL−1 and 0.106 gNH 3 ·gIL−1, respectively, which are far more than most of the conventional ILs. Moreover, the high selectivity for NH 3 /N 2 , NH 3 /CO 2 and NH 3 /O 2 of [Bmim] 2 [CuCl 4 ] and [Bmim] 2 [SnCl 4 ] indicated that these MILs can selectively separate NH 3 from NH 3 -containing gases. The absorption mechanism was further studied using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and quantitative chemical calculations. It was demonstrated that the chemical complexation between [Bmim] 2 [CuCl 4 ] and NH 3 plays a dominant role in NH 3 absorption, but the stronger hydrogen bonding between [Bmim] 2 [SnCl 4 ] and NH 3 enhances the absorption performance. In addition, [Bmim] 2 [SnCl 4 ] can keep good stability after five absorption and desorption cycles, implying this MIL shows great potentials as an efficient and reversible absorbent for NH 3 capture applications. Graphical abstract Novel metal chloride anion-based ionic liquids have been designed for efficient separation of NH 3 , and both high NH 3 absorption capacity and excellent recyclability were simultaneously achieved by stannum ionic liquids [Bmim] 2 [SnCl 4 ]. Image Highlights • The incorporation of metal center into ILs can obviously enhance NH 3 absorption capacity in metal ionic liquids (MILs). • [Bmim] 2 [CuCl 4 ] and [Bmim] 2 [SnCl 4 ] have higher NH 3 capacity and NH 3 selectivity towards other gases. • The chemical complexation plays a dominant role in NH 3 absorption in [Bmim] 2 [CuCl 4 ], resulting in its irreversibility. • NH 3 absorption occurs in [Bmim] 2 [SnCl 4 ] through the strong hydrogen bonding, therefore showing great recyclability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, we have developed an all-atom force field with three-body hydrogen bond model for 1‑ethyl‑3‑methyl‑imidazolium chloride ([Emim][Cl]), predicted the experimental dynamic viscosity successfully and calculated the relationship between dynamic properties and ion pair (IP) structures relaxation time. The partial atom charges and parameters of Lennard-Jones and hydrogen bond model are derived from ab initio molecular dynamic (AIMD) simulations. The strategy is that charges are fitted by AIMD structures and parameters are adjusted to make structure consistent between molecular dynamic (MD) and AIMD. The dynamic viscosities were calculated by Green-Kubo (GK) relation and were in excellent agreement with experiments results. Structure of ionic liquids was studied by using several distribution functions and IP time response was calculated. The calculated IP lifetime was found in linear correlation with viscosity and self-dynamic coefficient. Highlights • Hydrogen bond model improves simulation structures and properties calculation. • Atom charges were assigned by fitting electric density of the multi ion pairs. • Reliable sheer viscosities of ILs were computed by Green-Kubo relations. • Transport properties are related to ion pair's lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In electrochemical devices, the reduction of dissolved oxygen in electrolyte can achieve on-site production of hydrogen peroxide. The industrial viability of the process strongly depends on cathode electrocatalyst. However, current catalysts rely on rare, noble metals and their composite. Thus, it remains a great challenge of cost-effective catalyst with both high activity and selectivity. Herein, we made use of extremely low-cost fungi residue biomass, developing a multi-non-precious metal doped carbon catalyst (named as FRC) for H 2 O 2 electrogeneration by facile in-situ synthesis. The one-step prepared FRC balances the performance of different metal oxides and exhibits not only high activity but also high selectivity at a spacious potential range. Specifically, the current density for ring reaches 0.45 mA cm −2 at −0.5 V (vs SCE). Besides, the selectivity achieves 98% and remain above 91% in wide potential range (−0.7 ∼ −0.3 V), which exceeds almost all metal contained carbon materials to our knowledge. As the first study of fungi residue towards H 2 O 2 electrogeneration, this novel approach provides a highly promising and low cost electrocatalyst for real production, moreover, exploring a new direction for H 2 O 2 electrocatalyst development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of carboxylic acids from dilute aqueous solution is necessary but difficult in chemical industry. Methacrylic acid (MAA) is an important chemical widely used in polymer industry. In this work, the recovery of carboxylic acid from diluted aqueous solution by liquid-liquid extraction using ionic liquids (ILs) as extractants was studied. MAA was employed as model carboxylic acid. The partition coefficients of MAA in biphasic system and the extraction efficiencies of MAA were determined for imidazolium-based ILs and quaternary ammonium salt ILs with different structure of cation and anion. The extraction conditions such as extraction time, extraction temperature, mass ratio of ILs to MAA aqueous solution, initial concentrations of MAA, and water content were evaluated. An internal mechanism of the MAA extract by ILs was revealed by combining solvatochromic study, FT-IR and quantum chemical calculations. The results show that the strong hydrogen bond basicity (β) of ILs results in the high partition coefficient of MAA, which provides guidance to molecular design of ILs for the high efficient extractive separation of MAA from diluted aqueous solution. Based on this, IL with strong hydrogen bond basicity ([N 8881 ]Cl) was used to extract MAA from dilute aqueous solution. Compared with hexane which is conventional solvent used in MAA extractive separation, [N 8881 ]Cl can get 49 times higher of partition coefficient value and the extraction efficiency reach 94.57% for the single-stage extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acrylate photoresists have gained considerable attention in recent years owing to their high resolution, high sensitivity, and versality. In this work, a series of thermally stable copolymers are synthesized by introducing an isobornyl group, and well characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra (1H-NMR). The effects of polymerization conditions on the molecular weight and their further influence on lithography are explored. By analyzing the thermal properties, film-forming capabilities, and the patterning behavior of these copolymers, a direct correlation between lithography performance and polymerization conditions is established via the molecular weight. In addition, the baking temperature of lithography is also optimized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), after which a line resolution of 0.1 μm is observed under the exposure of a 248 nm UV light and electron beam. Notably, our synthesized photoresist displays dual-tone resist characteristics when different developers are applied, and the reaction mechanism of acid-catalyzed hydrolysis is finally proposed by comparing the structural changes before and after exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of efficient electrochemical seawater splitting catalysts for large-scale hydrogen production is of great importance. In this work, we report an amorphous Co-Mo-B film on Ni foam (Co-Mo-B/NF) via a facile one-step electrodeposition process. Such amorphous Co-Mo-B/NF possesses superior activity with a small overpotential of 199 mV at 100 mA cm−2 for a hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline seawater. Notably, Co-Mo-B/NF also maintains excellent stability for at least 24 h under alkaline seawater electrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is not an exaggeration to say that Prof Wang has been responsible for Mol Sim's success in China since 2015. To celebrate Professor Wang's 80th birthday, we invited some prominent professors and researchers, who are also his good friends, to contribute their recent research results to this special issue. It is with great pleasure that we publish a special issue celebrating the 80th birthday of Professor Emeritus Wenchuan Wang of the college of chemical engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Engineering, China. [Extracted from the article]

To achieve the goals of "carbon peak and carbon neutrality" and sustainable development, we propose "Three-Dimensional Environment-Friendly" materials to balance the urgent need for the development of clean energy and the reduction of secondary environmental pollution during adsorbent preparation. In this study, three novel chitosan adsorbents (CMNSC-Leu , CMNSC-Pro , CMNSC-Phe) for uranium adsorption were designed on the basis of molecular level and successfully synthesized with three different amino acids (leucine, proline, phenylalanine) through amidation reaction in an aqueous environment using a sustainable green chitosan material. The uranium adsorption capacity of the three adsorbents was evaluated by batch adsorption, selectivity and recyclability studies. The adsorption reaction conformed to the pseudo-second-order model and was a spontaneous endothermic reaction. In particular, the maximum adsorption capacity of CMNSC-Pro for uranium was 462.7 mg·g−1 at C 0 = 100 ppm. In addition, CMNSC-Pro showed better selectivity and good reusability. DFT calculation and IRI diagram were applied in this work to analyze the unique structure and adsorption process of CMNSC-Pro from the perspective of structure. Uranium was adsorbed by CMNSC-Pro via coordination, electrostatic interaction, and intraparticle diffusion. This work provided a new idea for the structural design and construction of new high-efficiency biomass adsorbents. [Display omitted] • Green and sustainable biomass chitosan as raw material • Bis-substituted chitosan was achieved by amidation reaction in aqueous. • Adsorbents could adsorb up to 462.7 mg·g−1 for uranium at 100 ppm. • Coordination mechanism in CMNSC-Pro: UO 2 2+ coordinated by O C in CNO and COOH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li metal anode with high capacity, negative potential and low density is regarded as the most promising anode material. Unfortunately, its commercialization is greatly limited by Li dendrites. Here, a 3D carbon paper scaffold with lithiophilic carbon nanoparticles is synthesized as a Li host via the carbonization of metal-organic framework and the doping of oxygen atom. Carbon nanoparticles effectively improve the specific surface area of carbon paper that can low the local current density and provide rich internal spaces for Li reservoir. In addition, the rich lithiophilic groups (such as ZnO, nitrogen atom and oxygen atom) can regulate a uniform Li+ flux and achieve a controllable Li deposition. Based on these structural advantages, uniform nucleation and growth of Li metal have been realized. Especially, the symmetric cell renders an outstanding cyclic stability for 750 h with an ultra-low polarization voltage of 14 mV at 1 mA/cm2. Additionally, the full cell partied with a LiFePO 4 cathode displays an initial specific capacity of 138.1 mAh/g, and even maintains 97.7 % capacity retention after 120 cycles at 0.5C. Therefore, this strategy presents a universal approach to construct porous hosts with abundant lithiophilic sites for long-lifespan Li metal batteries. [Display omitted] • We propose a strategy to construct porous hosts with abundant lithiophilic sites. • Zn–O@CP host can regulate uniform Li ionic flux and dendrite-free Li deposition. • Zn–O@CP host displays a low polarization voltage of 14 mV for 750 h. • Zn–O@CP host can be applied to both in anode-free cells and in Li metal cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) owns the promising potential in treating kidney injury, which inevitably occurs during renal allograft. Given that, this research targets to unveil KLF4-oriented mechanism from microRNA-155-5p/ERBB receptor feedback inhibitor 1 (miR-155-5p/ERRFI1) axis in acute renal allograft injury. Mice were injected with miR-155-5p-related sequences before acute renal allograft modeling. Afterwards, serum inflammation, along with oxidative stress, renal tubular injury, and apoptosis in renal tissues were detected. HK-2 cells were processed by hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) and transfected with miR-155-5p- or ERRFI1-related sequences, after which cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured. KLF4, miR-155-5p, and ERRFI1 expressions and their interaction were tested. KLF4 and miR-155-5p levels were enhanced, and ERRFI1 level was repressed in mice after acute renal allograft and in H/R-treated HK-2 cells. KLF4 bound to the promoter of miR-155-5p. Depleting miR-155-5p reduced serum inflammation and attenuated oxidative stress, renal tubular injury, and apoptosis in mice with acute renal allograft injury. Downregulating miR-155-5p facilitated proliferation and repressed apoptosis of H/R-treated HK-2 cells. miR-155-5p targeted ERRFI1. Knocking down ERRFI1 antagonized the effects of downregulated miR-155-5p on acute renal allograft injury, as well as on H/R-treated HK-2 cell proliferation and apoptosis. A summary displays that silencing KLF4 suppresses miR-155-5p to attenuate acute renal allograft injury by upregulating ERRFI1, which provides a way to control acute renal allograft injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positive leader inception under different rates of voltage rise is a key element in physical modeling of dielectric breakdown of long air gaps and evolution of natural lightning. The leader inception phase comes first in long-air-gap discharge, including first corona, primary dark period, and second corona, which is also called "leader corona," portending leader inception. The Les Renardières Group has stated that the primary dark period is determined by the electrode curvature, based on which no leader inception model currently in use considers the influence of the rate of the applied voltage. To determine whether that assertion is true, an experimental scheme is designed so that impulse voltages can be applied with a large range of rise rates. With an increasing rate of voltage rise, the test results clearly show the following: (i) the curves relating the injected charge and inception voltage of the first corona present regular differences; (ii) the duration of the primary dark period decreases exponentially; (iii) the leader inception voltage and the difference between the leader and first-corona inception voltages present decreasing trends. These findings indicate that the formation of the dark period is related to more than just the electrode curvature, which is just one cause but may not be the essential reason for the dark period. The present findings suggest that the rate at which the applied voltage rises impacts the physical process of the streamer-to-leader transition during the dark period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A simple and sensitive method has been developed for simultaneous analysis of three catecholamines: dopamine (DA), epinephrine (EP) and norepinephrine (NE) in urine by capillary electrophoresis (CE) coupled with in-column fiber-optic light-emitting diode-induced fluorescence detection (ICFO-LED-IFD). Fluorescein isothiocyanate was used as the fluorescence tagged reagent for derivatization of DA, EP and NE. The CE conditions for separation of these catecholamines were systematically investigated. It was found that catecholamines could be more effectively separated by adding β-cyclodextin (β-CD) and acetonitrile (ACN) to a background electrolyte (BGE) of sodium borate. The migration times are 10.61, 10.83 and 11.14min for DA, EP and NE, respectively and the catecholamines are completely separated within 11.5min under the optimal condition of a BGE containing 10% v/v ACN, 20mM β-CD and 20mM sodium borate (pH 9.5), and an applied voltage of 13kV. The relative standard deviations of migration time and peak area for these catecholamines are less than 0.16 and 2.0%, respectively. The limit of quantifications (LOQs) for DA, EP and NE are 3.5, 1.0 and 3.1nM whereas the limit of detections (LODs) for DA, EP and NE are 1.0, 0.3 and 0.9nM, respectively. Our proposed CE method provides low LOQ and LOD values. This CE-ICFO-LED-IFD methodology has been successfully applied to analyze catecholamines in human urine samples with good accuracy and satisfactory recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel electrode of titanium substrate coated with mixed metal oxides of SnO2, Sb2O3, Nb2O5 and PbO2 was successfully prepared using thermal decomposition and electrodeposition. The surface morphology and the structure of the prepared thin film were characterized by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. Experimental results showed that the structure of the prepared electrode might be described as a Ti/SnO2–Sb2O3–Nb2O5/PbO2 thin film and its surface was mainly comprised pyramidal-shape β-PbO2 crystals. The modified electrode had higher oxygen evolution potential than that of other PbO2 modified electrodes. Electrocatalytic oxidation of phenol in aqueous solution was studied to evaluate the potential applications of this electrode in environmental science. The phenol removal efficiency in an artificial wastewater containing 0.50g/L phenol could reach 78.6% at 20°C and pH 7.0 with an applied electricity density of 20mA/cm2 and treatment time of 120min. When 21.3g/L chloride was added to this wastewater, the removal efficiency could reach to 97.2%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Silicon monoxide (SiO), which has been verified as a potential anode material, can improve the energy density of Li-ion batteries (LIBs). These LIBs are crucial for the advancement of electric vehicles. However, the commercial application of SiO is severely limited due to poor initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE). In this study, we present a novel concept to enhance the ICE of silicon oxide-based anodes by collaboratively leveraging two distinct reaction theories: disproportionation reaction and the reaction between acidic oxide and alkali. Based on this concept, we utilize a chemical disproportionation-driven Li metal-free prelithiation method, enabling the in-situ growth of microcrystalline silicon and lithium silicate within amorphous silicon oxide, which bears a striking resemblance to pitaya seeds. This reaction yields unique lithium silicate and nano/micro-structured silicon surrounded by SiO (Si–SiO–Li x SiO y multicomponents, PD-SiO). This can be demonstrated via transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) or X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The reaction product, PD-SiO, exhibits remarkable properties, including high ICE (82.5 %), high charging capacity (1419 mAh g–1), and highly stable cycling performance (94.6 % capacity retention after 200 cycles at 0.5 A g–1). This study offers a new approach to enhance the initial Coulombic efficiency of silicon monoxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Offering directional strategies for modeling methods of carbon dots and composites. • Summarizing the crucial points of various modeling methods. • Exhibiting different practical applications to elucidate the modeling processes. As researchers have gained a deeper insight into the properties of carbon dots (CDs), their applications gradually spanned from fluorescent probing and bio-imaging to energy storage, catalysis, and other numerous fields in recent years. At the same time, computational methods are also employed to deepen the understanding of CDs on the other sides. In this process, the establishment of the statical atomic model and structure–activity relationship is becoming especially valuable. This review summarizes the progress to date in the construction of structural models referring to CDs and evaluates their significance in establishing structure–activity relationships. Specifically, the modeling strategy of CDs and CDs composites, and the functions of related models in explaining CDs as fluorescent reagents, biological probes, catalytic materials, and energy storage devices will be evaluated, aiming at offering some different insights for the design of more rational and reliable CDs-based models for the exploration of more novel characteristics and phenomena related to CDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The rambutan-like structure of Pd@SS-CNR provides large specific surface area and abundant pores. • The Pd quantum dots act as bidirectional redox catalyst to suppress shuttle effect. • Li-S batteries with Pd@SS-CNR electrodes exhibited excellent electrochemical performance. The lithium polysulfide (LiPSs) shuttle effect and sluggish conversion kinetics hinder the commercial viability of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. To improve the properties of Li-S batteries, it is imperative to establish efficient pathways for Li-ions transmission by constructing conductivity channels of high quality, and to expedite the conversion kinetics of LiPSs by employing catalysts of exceptional activity. In this study, we synthesized a spherical superstructure of metal–organic framework nanorods (SS-MOFNR) using a self-assembly strategy with zinc-metal–organic framework (Zn-MOF) nanoparticles, followed by carbonization to obtain the spherical superstructure of carbon nanorods (SS-CNR). Subsequently, palladium nanoparticles were synthesized through the reduction and uniformly dispersed onto SS-CNR. The hollow porous structure facilitates the efficient utilization of sulfur and ensures the rapid diffusion of Li-ions. Additionally, Pd nanoparticles exhibit significant catalytic activity, effectively adsorbing LiPSs and bidirectional catalytic conversion of sulfur species, thereby effectively suppressing the shuttle effect of LiPSs. Therefore S/Pd@SS-CNR electrode demonstrates commendable electrochemical efficacy, as evidenced by its initial specific capacity of 1627.7 mAh g−1 at 0.1C and maintaining a specific capacity of 766.2 mAh g−1 even after 600 cycles at 0.5C. Moreover, it exhibits favorable cycle stability at 2C, retaining a reversible capacity of 502.3 mAh g−1 after undergoing 1000 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic liquids with stimuli‐responsive characteristics are an essential branch in the comprehensive ionic liquids' family, which can meet the controllable and reversible needs in practical applications with different stimulation means. In this review, we summarize the recent research progress of these stimuli‐responsive ionic liquids, mainly focusing on their chemical structures, properties, responsive mechanism, aggregation structures, and phase behaviors, which were driven by external stimuli, such as CO2, magnetism, light, temperature, redox, and pH. Then, the particular or potential applications of stimuli‐responsive ionic liquids are expounded in various fields of science, including catalytic reaction, extraction, separation, nanomaterial preparation, and gas absorption. In the end, the challenges and strategies of the subject are briefly presented. It is expected that this review will contribute to the rational design and applications of stimuli‐responsive ionic liquids in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a dearth of effective parameters for selecting potentially transplantable liver grafts from expanded-criteria donors. In this study, we used a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxation analyzer-based assay to assess the viability of ex vivo livers obtained via porcine donation after circulatory death (DCD). Ex situ normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) was utilized as a platform for viability test of porcine DCD donor livers. A liver-targeted contrast agent, gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA), was injected into the perfusate during NMP, and the dynamic biliary excretion of the Gd-EOB-DTPA was monitored by measuring the longitudinal relaxation time (T1). The longitudinal relaxation rate (R1) of the bile was served as a parameter. The delay of increase in biliary R1 during early stage of NMP indicated the impaired function of liver grafts in both warm and cold ischemia injury, which was correlated with the change of alanine aminotransferase. The preservative superiority in cold ischemia of dual hypothermic oxygenated machine perfusion could also be verified by assessing biliary R1 and other biochemical parameters. This study allows for the dynamic assessment of the viability of porcine DCD donor livers by combined usage of ex situ NMP and NMR relaxation time based assay, which lays a foundation for further clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new hybrid compound (POSS) was introduced to a conventional PEO-based polymer electrolytes. • The microscopic interaction between Li+ and other atoms in the systems were explored. • The molecular dynamics simulation method was used to calculate the dynamic properties of Li+. • High ionic conductivity has been obtained in the PEO grafted POSS system. Solid polymer electrolytes still face many problems for the development of energy devices. A new hybrid compound (POSS) grafted with a low molecular weight PEO segment was introduced to inhibit polymer crystallization and improve the ion conductivity. The microscopic interaction sites between Li+ and other atoms were studied in the grafted systems. The glass transition temperature shows that the grafting of POSS can effectively inhibit the crystallization of the polymer and form more microscopic amorphous regions. Comparing with a blank system and blending system, the improved electrical conductivity of Li ions was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic liquids (ILs) are a kind of novel solvents of which some are green with many possible applications, e.g., as efficient catalyst. Structures and properties of ILs are determined by coulomb and van der Waals interactions and also by hydrogen-bonding between cations and anions. Particularly, metal-based ionic liquids (MBILs) exhibit excellent catalytic properties in the lignin conversions due to their superiority in paramagnetism, Lewis acidity, and electrochemistry. Nevertheless, the structural properties of MBILs are scarcely understood. Therefore, the hydrogen-bonding interactions between [Bmim][FeCl 4 and methanol at different concentration were studied in this work by using excess infrared spectroscopy, density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results showed that hydrogen-bonding interactions between cations and anions of [Bmim][FeCl 4 were gradually weakened with increasing the concentration of methanol. However, cations and anions tended to bind together because of the original stable hydrogen-bonding network when the mole fraction of methanol was <0.2. The MD simulations verified that [Bmim][FeCl 4 could be dissociated into individual ions when the molar ratio of methanol to [Bmim][FeCl 4 exceeded 2 for the reason that methanol simultaneously interacted with cations and anions of [Bmim][FeCl 4. Due to the electron-donating group (–CD 3), which made positive contributions to the stability of the O–D···Cl hydrogen bond, methanol had priority to interacting with [FeCl 4 − anions. It was found that [Bmim][FeCl 4 ion clusters, [Bmim][FeCl 4 -methanol complex, and the free ions were the primary aggregation forms in the mixed systems. We hope that the findings obtained from this work can give an in-depth understanding of the hydrogen-bonding interactions between MBILs and methanol, which can take advantage of MBILs as a functional medium. • The microscopic interactions in the binary systems of metal-based ionic liquids and methanol were elucidated. • The effect of solvent concentration on the structure of hydrogen bonds was performed by FTIR, DFT and MD simulations. • Energy decomposition and RDG analysis visualized the composition of Non-Covalent Interactions. • Ion pairs were hardly broken apart when the molar concentration of methanol was <0.2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]