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INTRODUCTION: Ethylene glycol (EG) is a frequently considered toxicant in poisoned patients. Definitive diagnosis relies on gas chromatography (GC), but this is unavailable at most hospitals. A glycerol dehydrogenase (GDH)-based assay rapidly detects EG. A rapid turnaround time and wide availability of necessary instrumentation suggest this method could facilitate the rapid detection of EG. METHODS: This is a prospective, observational analysis of banked, remnant serum samples submitted to the laboratory of a large, multi-hospital healthcare system. Samples were submitted over a 12-month period for the explicit purpose of testing for suspected EG ingestion. All samples underwent GC and the GDH-based assay. RESULTS: Of the 118 analyzed samples, 88 had no EG detected by GC, and 30 were positive. At the manufacturers threshold of 6 mg/dL EG, there was 100% (95%CI; 88.7-100) positive percent agreement (PPA) and 98% (92.1-99.6) negative percent agreement (NPA). Adjusted to a threshold of 9 mg/dL, both the PPA and NPA were 100%. Deming regression of the observed concentrations revealed a slope of 1.16 (1.01 to 1.32) and intercept of -5.3 (-8.9 to -1.7). CONCLUSIONS: The GDH assay provides a sensitive and specific method for the detection and quantification of EG that is comparable to a GC-based method. More widespread use of this rapid, inexpensive assay could improve the care of patients with suspected toxic alcohol exposure. Further study is needed to evaluate the test performance in real-time patient treatment decisions.

[Display omitted] Host rock weathering and incipient pedogenesis result in the exposition of minerals, e.g., clay minerals in sedimentary limestones. Once exposed, these minerals provide the surfaces for fluid–solid interactions that control the fate of dissolved or suspended compounds such as organic matter and colloids. However, the functional and compositional diversity of organic matter and colloids limits the assessment of reactivity and availability of clay mineral interfaces. Such assessment demands a mobile compound with strong affinity to clay surfaces that is alien to the subsurface. We approached this challenge by using poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as interfacial tracer in limestone weathering experiments. PEG adsorption and transport was dependent on the availability of clay mineral surfaces and carbonate dissolution dynamics. In addition, PEG adsorption featured adsorption–desorption hysteresis which retained PEG mass on clay mineral surfaces. This resulted in different PEG transport for experiments conducted consecutively in the same porous medium. As such, PEG transport was reconstructed with a continuum-scale model parametrized by a Langmuir-type isotherm including hysteresis. Thus, we quantified the influence of exposed clay mineral surfaces on the transport of organic colloids in carbonate media. This renders PEG a suitable model colloid tracer for the assessment of clay surface exposition in porous media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Photonic ionogels with dual electrical and optical output have been intensively studied. However, tunable temperature-responsive photonic ionogel assembled by thermosensitive nanogels has not been studied yet. Herein, an innovative approach to fabricate photonic ionogels has been developed for smart wearable devices with tunable temperature sensitivity and structural color. Firstly, poly(isopropylacrylamide-r-phenylmaleanilic acid) P(NIPAm-r-NPMA) nanogels self-assemble into photonic crystals in 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA), water, and the ionic liquid of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate. And then robust photonic ionogels are developed through a polymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate crosslinked by poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA). The incorporation of the ionic liquid, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate, enhances the mechanical strength of photonic ionogels and tunes the temperature-sensitivity of the ionogels, making them adaptable to various environmental conditions. The findings demonstrate that these ionogels can serve dual functions in smart wearable devices, combining electrical and optical signal outputs due to the conductivity of the ionic liquid and structural color from the nanogel assembly. The resultant photonic ionogels exhibit exceptional substrate adhesion, mechanical stability, and fast resilience. More significantly, the nanogels within these ionogels serve as the building blocks of photonic crystals (PCs) endow with angle-independent coloration and enhance stretchability beyond 200 %, while the stretchability of the ionogles without the nanogels is only about 100 %. Our photonic ionogels with tunable temperature-sensitivity and dual outputs will open an avenue to the development of the innovative smart wearable devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly (3-hydroxybutyrate) and poly (ethylene glycol) are frequently used as materials for designing scaffolds in tissue engineering. This work aimed the production of P3HB-PEG scaffolds in different weight ratio of PEG using electrospinning and characterized. Samples also were examined for rabbit chondrocyte cell assay. 5 wt% of PEG decreased the nanofiber diameter with more uniformity and enhanced hydrophilicity. The biodegradation rate increased while the mechanical features tended to decrease. In vitro tests showed good chondrocyte cell viability and adhesion. These results manifested that electrospun the P3HB-PEG scaffolds could enhance cartilage regeneration, showing their marvelous prospect as scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PdCu nanorings (NRs) featuring hollow interiors and low coordinated sites are synthesized as efficient electrocatalysts for ethanol and ethylene glycol oxidation reactions. [Display omitted] Two-dimensional (2D) Pd-based nanostructures with a high active surface area and a large number of active sites are commonly used in alcohol oxidation research, whereas the less explored ring structure made of nanosheets with large pores is of interest. In this study, we detail the fabrication of PdCu nanorings (NRs) featuring hollow interiors and low coordinated sites using a straightforward solvothermal approach. Due to increased exposure of active sites and the synergistic effects of bimetallics, the PdCu NRs exhibited superior catalytic performance in both the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) and the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR). The mass activities of PdCu NRs for EOR and EGOR were measured at 7.05 A/mg and 8.12 A/mg, respectively, surpassing those of commercial Pd/C. Furthermore, the PdCu NRs demonstrated enhanced catalytic stability, maintaining higher mass activity levels compared to other catalysts during stability testing. This research offers valuable insights for the development of efficient catalysts for alcohol oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocrine disruptors such as bisphenol A (BPA) adversely affect the environment and human health. Laccases are used for the efficient biodegradation of various persistent organic pollutants in an environmentally safe manner. However, the direct application of free laccases is generally hindered by short enzyme lifetimes, non-reusability, and the high cost of a single use. In this study, laccases were immobilized on a novel magnetic three-dimensional poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA)–chitosan (CS) inverse opal hydrogel (LAC@MPEGDA@CS@IOH). The immobilized laccase showed significant improvement in the BPA degradation performance and superior storage stability compared with the free laccase. 91.1% of 100 mg/L BPA was removed by the LAC@MPEGDA@CS@IOH in 3 hr, whereas only 50.6% of BPA was removed by the same amount of the free laccase. Compared with the laccase, the outstanding BPA degradation efficiency of the LAC@MPEGDA@CS@IOH was maintained over a wider range of pH values and temperatures. Moreover, its relative activity of was maintained at 70.4% after 10 cycles, and the system performed well in actual water matrices. This efficient method for preparing immobilized laccases is simple and green, and it can be used to further develop ecofriendly biocatalysts to remove organic pollutants from wastewater. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ozonation (O3) is a widely used advanced oxidation process (AOP) for the treatment of wastewater, while its drawbacks include high energy consumption and poor solubility must be reduced or eliminated. Hence, a combined catalytic ozonation process with H2O2 and S2O82- was employed to degrade mono ethylene glycol (MEG) and eliminate ecological risks during the treatment of gas refinery wastewater. In this study, the reduction of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and MEG from wastewater by O3, O3/H2O2, O3/Na2 S2O8, O3/GAC, O3/GAC/S2O82- and O3/GAC/H2O2 oxidation treatment systems were investigated. The optimal treatment conditions were obtained as O3 dosage of 0.81 g h−1, H2O2 (0.15 mol L−1), S2O82- (2 g L−1), GAC (7 g L−1), pH of 11 and 60 min reaction time. The results revealed that the highest rate of degradation of MEG, COD reduction and the minimum electrical energy per order from the wastewater were 87.6%, 78.1% and 1.01 kWh/m3 respectively for O3/GAC/S2O82- process and 91.0%, 82.5% and 0.877 kWh/m3 respectively for O3/GAC/H2O2 process. The MEG degradation rate constant by O3/GAC/H2O2 system about 6.2 times and O3/GAC/S2O82- system over 5.3 times were higher than O3. After calculation, the synergy factors in O3/GAC with H2O2/S2O82- systems are more than 4.7, demonstrating that both systems have a strong synergistic effect. The finding related to the OH° trapping agent illustrates that indirect oxidation by OH° plays a vital role in the degradation of MEG. The performance of GAC stability was checked and resulted in the GAC also showing good stable catalytic activity in five consecutive cycles of use. The degradation pathways of MEG in the O3/GAC with H2O2 or S2O82- system were proposed based on intermediate analysis. The main intermediates found in MEG oxidation include glycolaldehyde, glycolic acid, glyoxal, glyoxylic acid, oxalic acid and formic acid. Finally, modification of wastewater treatment suggested that the burping phenomenon and the glycol foaming tendency were not observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyoxyalkylenes are widely studied as clay swelling inhibitors. Although many additives are available, the operations require more efficient formulations. This work synthesized and characterized two of molecules: poly(ethylene glycol)(PEG) modified with hydrocarbon chains of different lengths; and poly(amidoamine) dendrimers(PAMAM) and PEG-modified PAMAM. The clay swelling inhibition efficiency was evaluated by the Foster swelling test. For the hydrophobized PEG derivatives, there is an optimum hydrocarbon chain size (C6-C10) to achieve the best performance. The best result was obtained for PEG-modified PAMAM(1:1), tested for the first time, being its performance even better than a commercial additive widely used in the petroleum industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethersulfone (PES) membranes have a high tendency to scale due to their inherent hydrophobicity, which limits their application and increases water treatment costs. To regulate the size of the pores of PES and prevent clogging, different qualities of poly(ethylene glycol)38‐block‐poly(propylene glycol)8 (PEG‐PPG) were introduced and screened for the best ratios. Further introduced synthesized nitrogen‐doped titanium dioxide (N‐TiO2), anti‐fouling and photocatalytic PES ultrafiltration membranes (N‐TiO2@M) were prepared. N‐TiO2@M3 exhibited bovine serum albumin rejection rate of 93.8% and achieved a methylene blue photocatalytic efficiency of 95.3% after 120 min of operation. Furthermore, N‐TiO2@M4 showcased a water contact angle of 41.0°. Notably, the pure water flux of N‐TiO2@M4 surged by 499.3% compared to that of PES membrane. The fouling resistance ratio for membrane flux witnessed an increase from 70.0% to 82.7%, demonstrating the enhanced durability of N‐TiO2@M4. Moreover, the comprehensive analysis for N‐TiO2@M4 revealed a total contamination rate of 40.2%. The irreversible contamination rate of N‐TiO2@M4 after 1 h of ultraviolet light (UV) cleaning was 5.7%, and the irreversible contamination rate after 1 h of visible light irradiation was 6.7%. The method for mixing N‐TiO2 and PEG‐PPG is straightforward and convenient, offering potential for the development of N‐TiO2@M with resistance to pollution and degradation in visible/UV light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The density and viscosity of the pseudo-binary mixtures of eutectic solvent (ES) composed of choline chloride and ethylene glycol ([ChCl/EG]) with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) were measured. In order to understand the effect of the mole ratio of ChCl:EG, two ChCl/EG ESs with the mole ratio of 1:3 and 1:4 (abbreviated as [ChCl/EG](1:3) and [ChCl/EG](1:4) in this work) were prepared. The measurements were carried out by digital vibrating U-tube density meter and Ubbelohde capillary viscometer from 303.15 to 323.15 K at atmospheric pressure (98.5 kPa). The Jouyban–Acree model was applied to correlate the experimental density and viscosity data of DMSO/[ChCl/EG](1:3) and DMSO/[ChCl/EG](1:4) mixtures. In addition, based on the experimental data, the derived properties of the mixtures, such as excess molar volume and viscosity deviation, were calculated. The comparison and analysis of excess molar volume and viscosity deviation for DMSO/[ChCl/EG](1:2) reported in literature and the results obtained in this work were carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remediation of antibiotics by photocatalysis technique has been regarded as a promising route to tackle with the environmental pollution affecting human survival and development. In this work, brookite TiO2 nanorods with different oxygen vacancy have been synthesized through tailoring the volume of ethylene glycol by hydrothermally treatment with NaTiOx-nanoassembly. After constitute and morphology confirmation with different characterizations, their photocatalytic performances are evaluated via ciprofloxacin (CIP) antibiotic degradation experiments. The result shows that the TiO2-0 has the highest photocatalytic efficiency towards CIP degradation, comparing with TiO2-15 and TiO2-30 samples. Although the TiO2-30 has high concentration oxygen vacancy, it exhibits excellent adsorption ability in the dark, rather than CIP degradation rate. The photo/electrochemical tests suggest the photo-generated electron lifetime, charge transfer ability, and the effective active sites on the material's surface are inversely proportional to the concentration of oxygen vacancies. It also concludes that rational fabrication conditions tailoring of the photocatalyst could optimize the corresponding capability in the antibiotic degradation process. In addition, the possible degradation pathway is also proposed based on the high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), and the acute toxicity changes in the degradation process are also predicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pt-based catalysts are quite promising for ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) due to their superior catalytic activity and their high cost, low reserves and poor stability of precious metals greatly limit the further large-scale application. Developing low-Pt and high-performance anode electrocatalysts is urgent to direct ethylene glycol fuel cells. At present, a high-entropy alloy (HEA) of PtPdNiCoBi/C has been developed for EGOR, and its catalytic performance has been verified by electrochemical and physical methods. Notably, the EGOR peak current density on PtPdNiCoBi/C (0.782 A mg−1PtPd) reaches 3.54 times of Pt/C (0.221 A mg−1Pt), and the residual current on PtPdNiCoBi/C (0.092 A mg−1PtPd) is superior to that of Pt/C (0.076 A mg−1Pt) after 3000 s. Moreover, the current density retention (84.0%) of it after 500 cycles, is also superior to that of the Pt/C (78.8%). This work would support the future practical use of HEA catalyst for fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper compares the thermal behavior of Ethylene Glycol (EG) and nano particles of Al2SiO5 immersed water based cutting fluid as coolants experimentally for the application of radiator used in automobile. In this regard, forced convective heat transfer coefficient has been equated for base fluid i.e. EG and water-based nanoparticles (NPs) of Al2SiO5 immersed nanofluids (NFs). For NFs, nano particles of Al2SiO5 have been mixed at concentration of 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.4% considering the vol% /vol%. The base fluid has been prepared by mixing the 40% EG and 60% pure water based on vol% / vol%. To have a laminar flow, all the experiments have been performed for Reynolds number ranging from 500 to 1500. For all experimental trials, the NFs were allowed to flow across the tubes of radiator made in elliptical cross section. Besides, the air is allowed to pass at constant speed in the direction of perpendicular to the flow of coolant at the passage between the tube bundles. The obtained experimental results suggest that the increment in flow rate can enhance the heat transfer. However, negligible impact has been observed for the change in inlet temperature of radiator. The increment in heat transfer upto 47% has been observed when NPs having low concentration has been immersed in base fluid. To compare the heat transfer, a non-dimensional coefficient of heat transfer i.e. Nusselt Number (Nu) has been calculated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Baghdad Science Journal is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

To achieve high‐performance indoor organic photovoltaics (OPVs), it is important to match the photoactive layer optical absorption with the light‐source emission. This can be accomplished by developing organic photoactive materials that can efficiently absorb visible light and thus minimize energy losses. While indoor OPVs have achieved efficiencies above 33% under low light intensities, the power output is limited by low open circuit voltages (VOC), often well below 1 V. In this study, we present a series of visible‐light absorbing (energy gap >1.90 eV) non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) based on perylene diimide dimers, which have been systematically modified with side chains of varying polarity and steric bulk (trimethyl benzyl, ethyl adamantane, trialkoxyl phenyl, and oligo ethylene glycol). Our results show that the incorporation of sterically bulky side chains such as ethyl adamantane and trimethyl benzyl, blended with the common widegap polymer PTQ10, provides photoactive layers with absorption greater than 2.0 eV, and consequently, VOCs higher than 1.2 V are achieved under AM 1.5 G illumination. Importantly, we found that the NFA with ethyl adamantane based side chains (tPDI2N‐ethyl adamantane, compound 4) exhibited the best performance, with minimized energy loss. As a result, devices using PTQ10:tPDI2N‐ethyl adamantane photoactive layers demonstrated excellent indoor efficiencies of over 16% and 18 μW cm−2 power output under a 2700 K LED lamp at 300 lux, and showed better repeatability compared to other systems. The PTQ10:tPDI2N‐ethyl adamantane based devices maintained a high VOC (>1.0 V) across a wide range of indoor lighting conditions, including 2700 K and 6500 K LED lamps. Overall, this work provides a sidechain engineering method to create NFAs for efficient indoor OPV devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep eutectic solvent is a mixture of two or more components, mixed in a certain molar ratio, such that the mixture melts at a temperature lower than individual substances. In this work, we have used a combination of ultrafast vibrational spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the microscopic structure and dynamics of a deep eutectic solvent (1:2 choline chloride: ethylene glycol) at and around the eutectic composition. In particular, we have compared the spectral diffusion and orientational relaxation dynamics of these systems with varying compositions. Our results show that although the time-averaged solvent structures around a dissolved solute are comparable across compositions, both the solvent fluctuations and solute reorientation dynamics show distinct differences. We show that these subtle changes in solute and solvent dynamics with changing compositions arise from the variations in the fluctuations of the different intercomponent hydrogen bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Urolithiasis is a painful condition and current treatment doesn’t assure the prevention of recurrence. This research aims to demonstrate the scientific reliability of Chloroform leaf extract of Flemingia Strobilifera R.Br. (CEFS) for antiurolithiatic activity using ethylene glycol-induced urolithiasis model. Results Ethylene glycol (EG) was used to induce hyperoxaluria in male Wistar rats. The rats were grouped into 7-groups containing six each. Group I and II served as negative and positive control, group III received standard treatment, whereas Group IV to VII served as testing groups. CEFS of 30 mg/kg body-weight and 60 mg/kg body-weight was used as a preventive and curative regimen. The urine biochemistry was analysed for the presence of calcium, magnesium, phosphate, and oxalate. The rats were sacrificed for histopathological examination and LDH detection. The 24-hours urine volume was increased in both EG-treated groups as well as CEFS-treated groups, indicating the diuretic activity of plant. CEFS dose-dependently inhibited urine excretion of phosphate, calcium, and oxalate compared to the positive-control group. The histopathological examination of CEFS-treated rats’ kidneys had reduced loss of renal structure and lessened deposition of calcium oxalate crystals. Conclusion CEFS exhibited significant antiurolithiatic activity by reducing supersaturation of urine and excretion of stone forming components.

Abstract The study investigates the heat transfer and friction factor properties of ethylene glycol and glycerol-based silicon dioxide nanofluids flowing in a circular tube under continuous heat flux circumstances. This study tackles the important requirement for effective thermal management in areas such as electronics cooling, the automobile industry, and renewable energy systems. Previous research has encountered difficulties in enhancing thermal performance while handling the increased friction factor associated with nanofluids. This study conducted experiments in the Reynolds number range of 1300 to 21,000 with particle volume concentrations of up to 1.0%. Nanofluids exhibited superior heat transfer coefficients and friction factor values than the base liquid values. The highest enhancement in heat transfer was 5.4% and 8.3% for glycerol and ethylene glycol -based silicon dioxide Nanofluid with a relative friction factor penalty of ∼30% and 75%, respectively. To model and predict the complicated, nonlinear experimental data, five machine learning approaches were used: linear regression, random forest, extreme gradient boosting, adaptive boosting, and decision tree. Among them, the decision tree-based model performed well with few errors, while the random forest and extreme gradient boosting models were also highly accurate. The findings indicate that these advanced machine learning models can accurately anticipate the thermal performance of nanofluids, providing a dependable tool for improving their use in a variety of thermal systems. This study's findings help to design more effective cooling solutions and improve the sustainability of energy systems.

Hydrogels are of interest for a wide range of applications. The ability to control when the hydrogel degrades can provide beneficial properties such as controlled degradation in the environment or the stimulated release of drugs or cells. Self‐immolative polymers are a class of degradable polymers that undergo complete end‐to‐end depolymerization upon the application of a stimulus. They have been explored for hydrogel development, but the ability to prepare and selectively degrade self‐immolative hydrogels under neutral aqueous conditions has so far been limited. We describe here the preparation of water‐soluble polyglyoxylamides with cross‐linkable pendent azides and their cross‐linking to form hydrogels with 4‐arm poly(ethylene glycol)s having unstrained and strained alkynes using copper‐assisted and strain‐promoted azide‐alkyne click chemistry respectively. The influence of pendent azide density and solution polymer content on the resulting hydrogels was evaluated. A polyglyoxylamide with a 70 : 30 ratio of pendent hydroxyl:azide successfully provided hydrogels with compressive moduli ranging from 1.3–6.3 kPa under copper‐free conditions at 10–20 % (w/w) of polymer in phosphate‐buffered saline. Selective depolymerization and degradation of the hydrogels upon irradiation with light was demonstrated, resulting in reductions in the compressive moduli and the release of depolymerization products that were detected by NMR spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a series of submicron‐sized functional polymer particles poly(Sty‐co‐MAA) with variable methacrylic acid (MAA) content were prepared by soap‐free emulsion polymerization of styrene (Sty), methacrylic acid (MAA), and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA). The number‐average diameters of polymer particles (Dn) were in the range of 0.11 to 0.19 μm. A decrease in particle size was observed with increasing the molar ratio of MAA comonomer in the recipe. ZnO/poly(Sty‐co‐MAA) hybrid polymer particles were prepared by seeded emulsion copolymerization in presence of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) as seed particles synthesized using Citrus lemon aqueous leaf extract. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microsphere (TEM), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transformed infra‐red (FT‐IR) analysis were performed to characterize polymer particles. The crystalline size of ZnO NPs and ZnO/poly(Sty‐co‐MAA) hybrid polymer particles calculated from XRD analysis were 20.75 and 29.85 nm, respectively. These hybrid polymer particles were applied as photocatalyst in the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under UV irradiation, which showed high catalytic activity with degradation efficiency of 85.70 % at room temperature compared to bare ZnO NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractNanosurface-imprinted polymer nanoprobes (Fe3O4@MIP) were prepared by microwave synthesis using Fe3O4 as a nanosubstrate, aspirin as a template, α-methacrylic acid (MAA) as a functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as a cross-linking agent, and 2,2'-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as an initiator. Characterization of Fe3O4@MIP revealed that the spectral probe exhibited strong resonance Rayleigh scattering (RRS) for aspirin. With the increase in aspirin concentration, the RRS energy transfer (RRS-ET) was enhanced, and the signal at 370 nm decreased, providing a linear range from 0.25 to 12.5 μmol/L and a detection limit (DL) of 0.08 μmol/L. The developed protocol was used for the determination of aspirin in drugs with recoveries from 93.2 to 102.6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are gaining rapid prominence in numerous biocatalysis processes due to their green characteristics, biodegradability, low cost, and simple preparation compared to harsh organic solvents and toxic ionic liquids. However, natural enzymes tend to show activity reduction, even inactivation in the presence of many DESs. Here, we present the first rational design approach to achieve enzymes resistant to both DESs and high temperatures. Using the interaction pattern between DESs and BSLA (Bacillus subtilis lipase A, our model enzyme) derived from all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we formulated a solvation-guided engineering strategy. This was established after assessing 33 structural, solvation, and energy observables. We rationally designed and experimentally tested 36 single substitutions, of which 28 (a 77.78% success rate) exhibited improvements in at least two DES cosolvents: choline chloride (ChCl) : acetamide, tetrabutylphosphonium bromide (TBPB) : ethylene glycol (EG), and ChCl : EG. Additionally, through stepwise recombination, we identified two robust BSLA variants, D64H/R107L/E171Y and D64H/R142L, showing stability improvements of up to 4.4-fold and 3.2-fold in three DESs and at 50 °C, respectively. Further MD studies demonstrated that (i) the restricted overall structure but fine-tuned local flexibility and (ii) increased water but decreased DES molecules at substituted sites are two main factors contributing to the enhanced multiple DES resistance. Overall, solvation-guided engineering offers an efficient and rational approach for designing lipases tolerant to DES cosolvents and elevated temperatures, with a considerable potential for adaptation to other enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green solvent processing of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) is a necessity for their future commercialization. However, the almost insoluble nature of perovskites in most green solvents strongly impedes the progress of green solvent‐processed PeLEDs. Here, a novel green solvent triethylene glycol (TEG) is used as the processing solvent for perovskites. TEG has better solubility for perovskite precursors than most reported green solvents. Moreover, it is found that the low vapor pressure of TEG solvent and stable precursor solution render a much wider time window for the so‐called antisolvent treatment than that of perovskite precursor solution in commonly dimethyl sulfoxide. High‐quality perovskite film can be readily synthesized with the antisolvent treatment at a time window of 70–100 s, and the resultant green PeLEDs demonstrate nearly identical light‐emitting efficiencies. Together with further interface modification, the optimized green PeLEDs processed with TEG exhibit an external quantum efficiency of 20.4% and a maximal luminance over 38000 cd m−2. It is the first successful attempt to fabricate high‐efficiency PeLEDs utilizing green solvent and is enlightening for the development of high‐performance PeLEDs prepared with eco‐friendly solvents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractOsteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent joint disorder characterized by cartilage and bone degradation. Medical therapies like glucosaminoglycan (GAG), chondroitin sulfate (CS), and hyaluronic acid (HA) aim to preserve joint function and reduce inflammation but may cause side effects when administered orally or via injection. Microneedle arrays (MNAs) offer a localized drug delivery method that reduces side effects. Thus, this study aims to demonstrate the feasibility of delivering GAG, CS, and HA using microneedles in vitro. An optimal needle geometry is crucial for the successful application of MNA. To address this, here we employ a multi-objective optimization framework using the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) to determine the ideal MNA design, focusing on preventing needle failure. Then, a three-step fabrication approach is followed to fabricate the MNAs. First, the master (male) molds are fabricated from poly(methyl methacrylate) using mechanical micromachining based on optimized needle geometry. Second, a micro-molding with Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is used for the fabrication of production (female) molds. In the last step, the MNAs were fabricated by microcasting the hydrogels using the production molds. Light microscopy (LIMI) confirms the accuracy of the MNAs manufactured, and in vitro skin insertion tests demonstrate failure-free needle insertion. Subsequently, we confirmed the biocompatibility of MNAs by evaluating their impact on the L929 fibroblast cell line, human chondrocytes, and osteoblasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer networks with controlled ratios of neutral and ionic dynamic crosslink points were prepared from ethylene glycol, boric acid, and lithium hydroxide. Both neutral and ionic sites led to the emergence of distinct damping modes separate from the glass transition. This work highlights the potential of polymer networks for multimodal damping spectra through dynamic bond selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To synthesize an effective and versatile nano-platform serving as a promising carrier for controlled drug delivery, visible-light-induced diselenide-crosslinked polyurethane micelles were designed and prepared for ROS-triggered on-demand doxorubicin (DOX) release. A rationally designed amphiphilic block copolymer, poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(diselenolane diol-co-isophorone diisocyanate)-b-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-b-PUSe-b-PEG), which incorporates dangling diselenolane groups within the hydrophobic PU segments, was initially synthesized through the polycondensation reaction. In aqueous media, this type of amphiphilic block copolymer can self-assemble into micellar aggregates and encapsulate DOX within the micellar core, forming DOX-loaded micelles that are subsequently in situ core-crosslinked by diselenides via a visible-light-triggered metathesis reaction of Se-Se bonds. Compared with the non-crosslinked micelles (NCLMs), the as-prepared diselenide-crosslinked micelles (CLMs) exhibited a smaller particle size and improved colloidal stability. In vitro release studies have demonstrated suppressed drug release behavior for CLMs in physiological conditions, as compared to the NCLMs, whereas a burst release of DOX occurred upon exposure to an oxidation environment. Moreover, MTT assay results have revealed that the crosslinked polyurethane micelles displayed no significant cytotoxicity towards HeLa cells. Cellular uptake analyses have suggested the effective internalization of DOX-loaded crosslinked micelles and DOX release within cancer cells. These findings suggest that this kind of ROS-triggered reversibly crosslinked polyurethane micelles hold significant potential as a ROS-responsive drug delivery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of ethylene glycol (EG) from cellulose has garnered significant attention in recent years as an attractive alternative to fossil fuels due to the potential of cellulose as a renewable and sustainable feedstock. In this work, to the best of our knowledge, a series of low-cost Ni-W bimetallic catalysts supported on glucose/carbon nanotube hybrid carbons were synthesised for the first time and employed to transform cellulose into EG. Two different strategies were combined for the preparation of the carbons: the activation and addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to obtain a hybrid material (AG-CNT). The catalytic conversion process proceeded through cellulose hydrolysis to glucose, followed by glucose retro-aldol condensation to glycolaldehyde and its subsequent hydrogenation to EG. Through the optimisation of the catalyst's properties, particularly the metals' content, a good synergistic effect of C-C bond cleavage and hydrogenation capabilities was assured, resulting in the highly selective production of EG. The balance between Ni and W active sites was confirmed to be a crucial parameter. Thus, total cellulose conversion (100%) was achieved with EG yields of 60–62%, which are amongst the best yields ever reported for the catalytic conversion of cellulose into EG via carbon-supported catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone tissue exhibits self-healing properties; however, not all defects can be repaired without surgical intervention. Bone tissue engineering offers artificial scaffolds, which can act as a temporary matrix for bone regeneration. The aim of this study was to manufacture scaffolds made of poly(lactic acid), poly(ε-caprolactone), poly(propylene fumarate), and poly(ethylene glycol) modified with bioglass, beta tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and/or wollastonite (W) particles. The scaffolds were fabricated using a gel-casting method and observed with optical and scanning electron microscopes. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG), wettability, and degradation tests were conducted. The highest content of TCP without W in the composition caused the highest hydrophilicity (water contact angle of 61.9 ± 6.3°), the fastest degradation rate (7% mass loss within 28 days), moderate ability to precipitate CaP after incubation in PBS, and no cytotoxicity for L929 cells. The highest content of W without TCP caused the highest hydrophobicity (water contact angle of 83.4 ± 1.7°), the lowest thermal stability, slower degradation (3% mass loss within 28 days), and did not evoke CaP precipitation. Moreover, some signs of cytotoxicity on day 1 were observed. The samples with both TCP and W showed moderate properties and the best cytocompatibility on day 4. Interestingly, they were covered with typical cauliflower-like hydroxyapatite deposits after incubation in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), which might be a sign of their excellent bioactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the last years, many domesticated and wild animal species, as well as local and transboundary breeds, have been threatened with genetic depletion and extinction. The application of conservation strategies to sheep breeds is necessary to safeguard the productive characteristics but also the historical and cultural value that they exert on their territory and inhabitants. Despite many advances that have been made in gamete cryopreservation, in vitro embryo production (IVEP) and juvenile in vitro production (JIVET), the efficiency of these technologies is still low, and the application is restricted in the ovine species. In the present study, a high concentration-rapid exposure (HC-RE) and a low concentration-slow exposure (LC-SE) vitrification protocol, using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and ethylene glycol (EG) as permeating cryoprotectants (CPAs), were applied to pre-pubertal lamb immature cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) and evaluated on nuclear and cytoplasmic parameters after in vitro maturation (IVM). Slightly more encouraging results were observed with the LC-SE vitrification protocol, leading to the hypothesis that low CPA concentrations in association with prolonged exposure times could be more promising to pursue in order to improve pre-pubertal lamb immature COC vitrification. Oocyte vitrification allows for the storing of endangered breed female gametes. Cryoprotectant (CPA) concentration and exposure time should ensure cell protection with minimal toxicity. In the present study, a high concentration-rapid exposure (HC-RE) and a low concentration-slow exposure (LC-SE) vitrification protocol, using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and ethylene glycol (EG) as permeating CPAs, were evaluated on meiotic competence and bioenergetic-oxidative status of pre-pubertal lamb immature COCs after in vitro maturation (IVM). For each protocol, COCs vitrified through a traditional protocol and fresh ones were used as controls. Both protocols allowed COC morphology preservation after vitrification-warming (V-W) and cumulus expansion after IVM. The maturation rate (7% and 14%) was comparable to the vitrified control (13% and 21%) but not satisfactory compared to fresh ones (58% and 64%; p < 0.001). The rate of mature oocytes displaying a perinuclear/subcortical (P/S) mitochondrial distribution pattern, an index of cytoplasmic maturity, was comparable between vitrified and fresh oocytes. The LC-SE vitrification protocol did not affect quantitative bioenergetic-oxidative parameters compared to both controls whereas HC-RE protocol significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, indicating cell viability loss. In conclusion, to improve pre-pubertal lamb immature COC vitrification, the combination of low CPA concentrations with prolonged exposure time could be more promising to investigate further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are a growing highlight in polymer chemistry. They are chemically and thermally stable, may be used in a variety of environments, and fulfill a wide range of applications. Computer-aided studies of MIPs often involve the use of computational techniques to design, analyze, and optimize the production of MIPs. Limited information is available on the computational study of interactions between the epinephrine (EPI) MIP and its target molecule. A rational design for EPI-MIP preparation was performed in this study. First, density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation were used for the screening of functional monomers suitable for the design of MIPs of EPI in the presence of a crosslinker and a solvent environment. Among the tested functional monomers, acrylic acid (AA) was the most appropriate monomer for EPI-MIP formulation. The trends observed for five out of six DFT functionals assessed confirmed AA as the suitable monomer. The theoretical optimal molar ratio was 1:4 EPI:AA in the presence of ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) and acetonitrile. The effect of temperature was analyzed at this ratio of EPI:AA on mean square displacement, X-ray diffraction, density distribution, specific volume, radius of gyration, and equilibrium energies. The stability observed for all these parameters is much better, ranging from 338 to 353 K. This temperature may determine the processing and operating temperature range of EPI-MIP development using AA as a functional monomer. For cost-effectiveness and to reduce time used to prepare MIPs in the laboratory, these results could serve as a useful template for designing and developing EPI-MIPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visualizing the network of a solvent‐swollen polymer gel remains problematic. To address this challenge, open transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was applied to thin gel films permeated by a nonvolatile ionic liquid. The targeted physical gels were prepared by cooling concentrated solutions of poly(ethylene glycol) in 1‐ethyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium ethyl sulfate [EMIM][EtSO4]. During the cooling, gelation occurred by a frustrated crystallization of the dissolved polymer, leading to a percolated, solvent‐permeated semicrystalline network in which nanoscale polymer crystals acted as crosslinks. Crystalline features ranging from ~5 to ~200 nm were observed, with the visible network strands dominantly consisting of long curvilinear crystallites of ~15–20 nm diameter. Nascent spherulites irregularly decorated the network, creating a complex structural hierarchy that complicated analyses. Lacking diffraction contrast, TEM did not visualize the many disordered, fully solvated PEG chains present in the voids between crystals. Recognizing that a network's three dimensionality is ambiguous when assessed through two‐dimensional microscopy projections, a small gel region was studied by TEM tomography, revealing a nearly isotropic three‐dimensional arrangement of the curvilinear crystallites, which displayed remarkably uniform cylindrical cross sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling the extensional rheological properties of solutions is of great interest for a number of applications, such as printing and coatings, as polymeric additives can modify a fluid's droplet size, formation, and breakup. We have measured the extensional flows of polyacrylamide graft poly(ethylene glycol) amine (PAM‐g‐PEGa) solutions as a function of grafting density. PAM‐g‐PEGa is synthesized with grafting densities of 2.5%, 5.5%, 8%, and 30% and extensional flow was analyzed with drop‐on‐substrate rheology. Flow time scales and profiles are then compared to understand the effects of backbone extension from the addition of side chains. At low grafting densities, the viscous friction from the added side chains is comparable to, and in some cases, counteracts the losses in extensibility to the graft polymer's backbone, leading to increases in the relaxation time of the polymer. At higher grafting densities, the extension of the backbone reduces the relaxation time. By characterizing the effects of the graft density architecture on extensional flows, we are able to fine‐tune and control the breakup dynamics of elastic solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photothermal immunotherapy represents an effective approach for eliminating both local and metastatic tumors through priming of the tumor‐specific immune response. Cytosolic delivery of double‐stranded DNA via pH‐responsive vehicles is recently verified to activate the cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate (GMP‐AMP) synthase‐stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS‐STING) pathway, which is robust in activating both innate and adaptive antitumor immunity. Herein, multifunctional phototheranostics with excellent photothermal conversion capacity, second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) fluorescence, and cGAS‐STING activating capacity are prepared by encapsulating fish testis DNA and conjugated boron dipyrromethene tetramers with poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) and poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) via a CaCO3‐assisted double emulsion method. The obtained phototheranostics (coined DB4CaP NPs) after intravenous administration gradually accumulate in tumor regions, as shown by NIR‐II fluorescence imaging. Together with local 915 nm laser exposure, primary tumors in mice treated with DB4CaP NPs could be effectively eradicated, with a complete response of 83.3%. Furthermore, such DB4CaP NPs could synergize with anti‐programmed cell death protein 1 immunotherapy to suppress the growth of distant unirradiated and rechallenged tumors through activating the antitumor immune response. This study highlights a promising strategy for eradicating tumors, particularly invisible and unresectable micronodules, through NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐guided photothermal immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progress is made in the advancement of efficient and durable electrocatalysts for the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR), which is a critical breakthrough in the conversion of waste plastic into high‐value‐added chemicals. Here, an organic ligand‐modified PdNi bimetallenes (PdNi O‐BMs) catalyst is designed and constructed through the one‐pot method. Benefiting from the frizzy and porous surface structure and inorganic–organic hybrid interface modification, PdNi O‐BMs undergo electrocatalytic reforming of ethylene glycol (EG) derived from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to form formic acid. The unique structural advantages result in high EGOR performance. Meanwhile, the influence of Ni and organic ligand on the catalyst performance is confirmed through density functional theory calculations. This study reveals an advanced strategy for the synthesis of inorganic–organic hybrid bimetallenes, providing a green and sustainable new approach for PET value‐added transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural rigidity of thiourea (TU) motifs has made them useful in supramolecular (bio)materials. However, the role of the TU motif in a single system endowing dual noncovalent interactions, i.e., Hydrogen‐bonding (H‐bonding) association and metal‐coordination interaction, to afford nanomedicine is still unexplored. Herein a smart supramolecular polymeric nanomedicine constructed via TU motifs privileged dual noncovalent interactions, toward synergistic chemo/chemodynamic (CT/CDT) cancer therapy is reported. The study first synthesized a six‐arm star‐shaped amphiphilic polymer vehicle containing pendant TU motifs, poly(acylthiourea‐co‐oligo(ethylene glycol) ethyl acrylate)6 (P(TU‐co‐OEGEA)6), followed by addressing both H‐bonding association and metal‐coordination to fabricate supramolecular nanomedicine (e.g., Dox/Cu@P(TU‐co‐OEGEA)6). Structural privilege and functional diversity of TU motifs constitute an outstanding scaffold, not only offering an H‐bonding site to associate doxorubicin (Dox) but also acting as a ligand to coordinate copper (Cu). Thereby, one TU motif can enable dual noncovalent binding modes, triggering multiple curative outcomes. TU/Dox and TU/Cu noncovalent interactions can induce intermolecular configuration, yielding prompted cargo loading and in vivo stability. Moreover, benefiting from pH‐responsive Dox release and Fenton‐like copper redox chemistry, accompanied by Dox‐induced intratumoral H2O2 elevation and prompted •OH generation, synergistic CT/CDT with extraordinary anti‐tumor efficacy is indeed accomplished. This work provides a new paradigm using TU motifs regulated dual supramolecular forces to meet therapeutic goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the intrinsically high safety, low cost, natural abundance, and high energy density of Zn metal, aqueous Zn ion batteries (AZIBs) have become a promising candidate for large‐scale energy conversion and storage. However, the practical application of AZIBs is hampered by the severe Zn dendrites growth and the poor low‐temperature performance due to the elevated freezing point of aqueous electrolyte. Herein, the study proposes a new kind of room‐temperature liquid Zn salt, which is called Zn coordinated ionic liquid (i.e., (EMIM)5Zn(OTF)7), for all‐temperature AZIBs. The aqueous electrolyte containing 0.261 mol kg−1 (EMIM)5Zn(OTF)7 in Ethylene Glycol (EG) / H2O (6:4) exhibits ultralow freezing point below −100 °C. The liquid Zn salt and EG molecules not only modulate the solvation structure of Zn2+ ion, reducing the coordinated H2O in the first solvation sheath, but also suppresses the parasitic side reaction. As a proof of concept, Zn || Zn symmetric cells and Zn || PANI full cells with the designed electrolyte achieve improved cycling stability and can operate under wide temperature (from −40 to 60 °C). Even with high Zn utilization ratio of 40%, long cycle life over 70 times with capacity retention of 80% is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcuminoid boron difluoride dyes have garnered significant attention in the realm of bioimaging, primarily owing to their excellent photophysicochemical properties. However, the strong hydrophobicity limits their optimal near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence emission, and the synthesis process is complicated. In this study, Curc-TPA, a curcuminoid boron difluoride derivative with a high fluorescence quantum yield, was facilely synthesized and surprisingly exhibited aggregation-induced NIR emission in a dimethyl sulfoxide/water mixture. The compound self-assembled into stable and homogeneous nanoparticles through hydrophobic interaction with the amphiphilic polymer 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-poly(ethylene glycol), which showed enhanced aggregation-induced emission (AIE) capacity in the NIR region. The nanoparticles specifically enriched at the tumor site due to the enhanced penetration and retention effect and exhibited bright fluorescence in vitro and in vivo. Notably, they showed satisfactory hematological compatibility and unobservable cellular and histological toxicity. Therefore, they are of promising clinical significance in the AIE-enhanced NIR fluorescence imaging-visualized precise diagnosis of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Lanthanide-doped up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) have emerged as promising biomedical tools in recent years. Most research efforts were devoted to the synthesis of inorganic cores with the optimal physicochemical properties. However, the careful design of UCNPs with the adequate surface coating to optimize their biological performance still remains a significant challenge. Here, we propose the functionalization of UCNPs with four distinct types of surface coatings, which were compared in terms of the provided colloidal stability and resistance to degradation in different biological-relevant media, including commonly avoided analysis in acidic lysosomal-mimicking fluids. Moreover, the influence of the type of particle surface coating on cell cytotoxicity and endocytosis/exocytosis was also evaluated. The obtained results demonstrated that the functionalization of UCNPs with poly(isobutylene- alt -maleic anhydride) grafted with dodecylamine (PMA- g -dodecyl) constitutes an outstanding strategy for their subsequent biomedical application, whereas poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) coating, although suitable for colloidal stability purposes, hinders extensive cell internalization. Conversely, surface coating with small ligand were found not to be suitable, leading to large degradation degrees of UCNPs. The analysis of particle' behavior in different biological media and in vitro conditions here performed pretends to help researchers to improve the design and implementation of UCNPs as theranostic nanotools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water‐dispersible fluorescent nano‐/microspheres have been widely used as fluorescent probes in many fields. In this paper, aldehyde‐functionalized fluorescent micelles are synthesized by self‐assembly of end‐modified hyperbranched poly(m‐phenyleneethynylene‐alter‐p‐phenyleneethynylene)(hb‐PMPE). First, hb‐PMPE with ‐Br end‐groups(hb‐PMPE‐Br) is obtained by the polymerization of AB2 monomer PhBr2–C≡C–Ph–C≡CH, then the reaction of hb‐PMPE‐Br with 4‐ethynylbenzaldehyde (EBA) gives end aldehyde‐functionalized hyperbranched polymer hb‐PMPE‐CHO. Hence, hb‐PMPE‐CHO is reacted with aminooxy methoxypolyethylene glycol‐2000 (NH2O‐MPEG2000) to link poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains to the ends of hb‐PMPE‐CHO with partial residual aldehyde end‐groups, resulting in aldehyde‐functionalized amphiphilic polymer hb‐PMPE‐PEG. Fluorescent micelles with aldehyde‐containing fluorescent hb‐PMPE core and PEG shell are obtained by self‐assembling hb‐PMPE‐PEG in water. The micelle diameter is determined by the PEG content in hb‐PMPE‐PEG, which can be controlled by the reaction weight ratio of NH2O‐MPEG2000/hb‐PMPE‐CHO. When the ratio of NH2O‐MPEG2000/hb‐PMPE‐CHO > 0.75/1, micelles with a diameter < 50 nm are obtained. The water dispersion of hb‐PMPE‐PEG‐1/2 micelles (28.9 nm) emits bright green fluorescence with λmax ≈ 490 nm under UV irradiation, and the emission intensity increases with increasing concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocompatible, sustainable, and conductive inks are of special interest and are highly valued in the printable bioelectronics. However, the conventional inks, which increase electrical conductivity by mixing metal particles or graphene, can cause long‐term damage when applied to the body and environment. Herein, a method for creating a stable matrix based on a UV‐cross‐linkable polymer to which a conductive polymer can be grafted is investigated to solve the above problems by recycling biomass. Through this, it is possible to achieve high conductivity using only biocompatible and sustainable polymers. Here, conductive inks for printable bioelectronics are developed by grafting polypyrrole on methacrylate‐modified sericin and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA). The highest electrical conductivity is achieved by adjusting the ratio of the pyrrole monomers polymerized on each polymer until the conductivity is optimized. Owing to the photoreactive nature of PEGDA, the prepared conductive inks are cross‐linked by UV light, thus giving them easy‐printing properties. The biodegradability, biocompatibility, and electrical properties of the printed patterns are systematically analyzed. This study has significant implications in the field of sustainable and printable bioelectronics as it has developed of a conductive ink with the biocompatibility, biodegradability, and high conductivity that is safer and simpler than conventional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient extraction of lignin from intricate lignocellulose is a challenge for the high-value utilization of lignocellulosic biomass in sustainable biorefinery. In this work, a p-toluene sulfonic acid-coupling ethylene glycol (PTSA/EG) pretreatment was developed to extract lignin from cornstalks. The results showed that the synergistic effect between p-toluene sulfonic acid and ethylene glycol resulted in an increase in the delignification ratio from 43.43 to 85.37% compared with PTSA aqueous pretreatment. When the concentration of PTSA was 5 wt.%, the delignification ratio reached 85.37% at 383.15 K under the PTSA/EG pretreatment. Moreover, the lignin fractions obtained by water precipitation have high purity (>90%) and a low molecular weight (1777~2271 Da). The fractionated lignin was depolymerized with Ru/C catalyst and methanol at 508.15 K for 3 h. When the pretreatment temperature is 368.15 K, the fractionated lignin has a good depolymerization performance, and the detected monomers yield reaches 17.46%. Overall, pretreatment using PTSA and EG could realize the disruption of the degradation barrier of lignocellulose and fractionate lignin with specific structures by adjusting the pretreatment conditions, which was conducive to commercial applications in biomass refining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UV‐curable oligomers were synthesized by the reaction of ethylene glycol (EG) or 1,4‐butanediol (BDO) with isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and then terminated with hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA). The chemical structures and molecular weight of the two oligomers were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR and 13C NMR) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The obtained UV‐curable oligomers were separately mixed with bisphenol A‐type epoxy acrylate (EA) in different mass ratios. The resulting mixture was then mixed with the active diluent tetrahydrofuran acrylate (THFA) and the photoinitiator ethyl 2,4,6‐trimethylbenzoylphosphonate (TPO‐L) for UV curing. The curing reactions were performed at UV light intensity of 120 mW/cm2. The unsaturation conversion was monitored by real‐time infrared spectroscopy (real‐time FT‐IR). The mechanical properties and coating properties of the UV‐cured products were analyzed. The results showed that the synthesized UV‐curable oligomers had good toughening effect on EA, and the tensile strength of EA was also improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vat photopolymerization 3D printing has proven very successful for the rapid additive manufacturing (AM) of polymeric parts at high resolution. However, the range of materials that can be printed and their resulting properties remains narrow. Herein, we report the successful AM of a series of poly(carbonate‐b‐ester‐b‐carbonate) elastomers, derived from carbon dioxide and bio‐derived ϵ‐decalactone. By employing a highly active and selective Co(II)Mg(II) polymerization catalyst, an ABA triblock copolymer (Mn=6.3 kg mol−1, ÐM=1.26) was synthesized, formulated into resins which were 3D printed using digital light processing (DLP) and a thiol‐ene‐based crosslinking system. A series of elastomeric and degradable thermosets were produced, with varying thiol cross‐linker length and poly(ethylene glycol) content, to produce complex triply periodic geometries at high resolution. Thermomechanical characterization of the materials reveals printing‐induced microphase separation and tunable hydrophilicity. These findings highlight how utilizing DLP can produce sustainable materials from low molar mass polyols quickly and at high resolution. The 3D printing of these functional materials may help to expedite the production of sustainable plastics and elastomers with potential to replace conventional petrochemical‐based options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic aerogels (MAs) with self-supporting three-dimensional (3D) porous structures constitute a potential platform for the construction of robust catalysts. In this work, we successfully constructed 3D PdAu MAs with the optimized d-band electron of Pd and geometrical lattice expansion using a maneuverable in-situ seed-mediated strategy at room temperature. The introduction of Au accelerated the kinetics of Pd 4 Au 3 MAs toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR), and ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) in alkaline electrolyte, boosting the activity and stability of Pd 4 Au 3 MAs. The mass activities of Pd 4 Au 3 MAs/C in ORR, EGOR and EOR were 1.74, 8.57, and 9.54 A mg Pd −1, respectively, which were remarkably better than those of referenced Pd MAs/C, commercial Pt/C and Pd/C. The rotating ring-disk electrode measurement illustrated that Pd 4 Au 3 MAs/C achieved a 4-electron transfer process in ORR from O 2 to OH−. In-situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that Pd 4 Au 3 MAs/C enabled the cleavage of the C–C bonds, thus accomplishing the C1-complete oxidation of 10-electron ethylene glycol and 12-electron ethanol. This study provides an efficient strategy to fabricate binary non-Pt alloy aerogels as high-performance multifunctional electrocatalysts for ORR, EGOR, and EOR. [Display omitted] • 3D PdAu aerogels were constructed using an in-situ seed-mediated strategy. • ORR mass activity of Pd 4 Au 3 MAs/C was 11.6 and 17.4 times that of Pt/C and Pd/C. • Pd 4 Au 3 MAs/C possessed superior C2 alcohol oxidation properties. • Pd 4 Au 3 MAs/C achieved 4-electron ORR and complete electrooxidation of C2 alcohols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: A class of solvent-free covalent organic framework (COF) single-ion conductors (Li-COF@P) has been designed via ion–dipole interaction as opposed to traditional ion–ion interaction, promoting ion dissociation and Li+ migration through directional ionic channels. The Li-COF@P enabled long cycle life (88.3% after 2000 cycles) in all-solid-state Li organic batteries (ASSLOBs) under ambient operating conditions, which outperformed those of previously reported ASSOLBs. This Li-COF@P strategy holds promise as a viable alternative to the currently prevalent inorganic solid electrolytes. Single-ion conductors based on covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have garnered attention as a potential alternative to currently prevalent inorganic ion conductors owing to their structural uniqueness and chemical versatility. However, the sluggish Li+ conduction has hindered their practical applications. Here, we present a class of solvent-free COF single-ion conductors (Li-COF@P) based on weak ion–dipole interaction as opposed to traditional strong ion–ion interaction. The ion (Li+ from the COF)–dipole (oxygen from poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate embedded in the COF pores) interaction in the Li-COF@P promotes ion dissociation and Li+ migration via directional ionic channels. Driven by this single-ion transport behavior, the Li-COF@P enables reversible Li plating/stripping on Li-metal electrodes and stable cycling performance (88.3% after 2000 cycles) in organic batteries (Li metal anode||5,5'-dimethyl-2,2'-bis-p-benzoquinone (Me2BBQ) cathode) under ambient operating conditions, highlighting the electrochemical viability of the Li-COF@P for all-solid-state organic batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]