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• An intelligent inverse method is proposed, where MMA works with FEM and binary reconstruction. • The size of chip-integrated logic gates (OR, XOR, NOR, AND and NAND) are 2 μm × 2 μm. • The bandwidth of logic gates are nearly ten times more than the other reported conventional gates. The Si-based chip-integrated OR, XOR, NOR, AND and NAND all-optical logic gates (AO-LGs) with footprints of 2 μm × 2 μm are inversely designed based on an intelligent method, which combines the method of moving asymptotes (MMA) with the finite element method (FEM). In this method, the substrate is divided into many small units, and the refractive index of each unit will be perturbed according to design expectation. Therefore, the optimized refractive index will be gradient, which divorces from fabrication. Binary reconstruction is the process of changing the gradient media into binary media, by filtering out the gradient virtual media, smoothing the boundaries, and refilling Si or air on the substrate to form a new structure. Numerical simulations demonstrate that all the AO-LGs designed by this method work effectively. The contrast ratio (CR) of OR/XOR gate ranges from 23.50 dB to 25.50 dB, NOR gate ranges from 6.33 dB to 7.91 dB, AND gate ranges from 4.44 dB to 6.13 dB, and NAND gate ranges from 8.85 dB to 10.07 dB. And these designed AO-LGs achieve nearly ten times more broad bandwidth than the other reported conventional gates without suffering other performances too much. The OR/XOR, and NOR gate functions well in a broad band range from 800 nm to 1600 nm, and from 850 nm to 1350 nm. AND gate functions well from 1000 nm to 1240 nm and from 1310 nm to 1400 nm. NAND gate functions well from 1360 nm to 1530 nm. It is expected that such a robust method can serve extensive applications in designing photonic devices, and the compact logic gates may contribute to broad applications of future optical computing and signal processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Licorice was widely used in food and herbal medicine. In its extract industry, a substantial amount of licorice protein was produced and discarded as waste. Herein, we extracted Licorice Protein Isolate (LPI) and explored its potential as a curcumin nanocarrier. Using a pH-driven method, we fabricated LPI-curcumin nanoparticles with diameters ranging from 129.30 ± 3.21 nm to 75.03 ± 1.19 nm, depending on the LPI/curcumin molar ratio. The formation of LPI-curcumin nanoparticles was primarily driven by hydrophobic interactions, with curcumin entrapped in LPI being in an amorphous form. These nanoparticles significantly enhanced curcumin properties in terms of solubility, photochemical stability, and stability under varying pH, storage, and physiological conditions. Moreover, the loaded curcumin exhibited a 2.58-fold increase in cellular antioxidant activity on RAW 264.7 cells and a 1.86-fold increase in antitumor activity against HepG2 cells compared to its free form. These findings suggested that LPI could potentially serve as a promising novel delivery material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Licorice was widely used in food and herbal medicine. In its extract industry, a substantial amount of licorice protein was produced and discarded as waste. Herein, we extracted Licorice Protein Isolate (LPI) and explored its potential as a curcumin nanocarrier. Using a pH-driven method, we fabricated LPI-curcumin nanoparticles with diameters ranging from 129.30 ± 3.21 nm to 75.03 ± 1.19 nm, depending on the LPI/curcumin molar ratio. The formation of LPI-curcumin nanoparticles was primarily driven by hydrophobic interactions, with curcumin entrapped in LPI being in an amorphous form. These nanoparticles significantly enhanced curcumin properties in terms of solubility, photochemical stability, and stability under varying pH, storage, and physiological conditions. Moreover, the loaded curcumin exhibited a 2.58-fold increase in cellular antioxidant activity on RAW 264.7 cells and a 1.86-fold increase in antitumor activity against HepG2 cells compared to its free form. These findings suggested that LPI could potentially serve as a promising novel delivery material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dielectric elastomers (DEs) have a great potential in applications as smart materials such as artificial muscles and flexible robotics, due to their advantages of large deformation, good flexibility and fast actuation response. However, the excellent electro-actuation performance of DE materials is always achieved under high electric fields, which limits their widespread application. Herein, the synthesized acrylate-based copolymer E 8 G 2 (the molar ratio between 2-ethylhexyl acrylate and glycidyl methacrylate is 8:2) was incorporated into the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix by solution mixing and compression molding to prepared a series of bi-network DE composites. The design of the all-organic bi-network structure not only regulates the dielectric-flexibility of E 8 G 2 /PDMS composites synchronously but also relieves the problem of plasticizer exudation. The E 8 G 2 /PDMS composites achieved a remarkable electro-actuated strain of 43.86 % at 50 V/μm, which is improved by 431.08 % compared with pure PDMS (6.95 %). Consequently, this study provides a promising approach for the preparation of advanced DE composites with outstanding electro-actuated performance in low-field driving applications. [Display omitted] • The dielectric elastomer with all-organic bi-network structures were prepared. • The electro-actuated strain of DE composite reaches 43.86 % at low-field of 50 V/μm. • The synergistic regulation on ε r and Y leads to the improved electro-actuation. • The long-standing issue of plasticizer-exudation from DE composites is relieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing quality monitoring method of dynamic compaction construction is costly and inefficient, and the measurement results for the falling distance of the hammer and the number of tamping times may even become completely ineffective in abnormal situations during the construction process, such as empty hook rise and early release hammer. Therefore, this paper proposes an effective measurement method based on time series model. Simulate the regular periodic motion state transformation in strong ramming construction by motion state discrimination model, combined with the prediction interval of running time estimation model to assist state discrimination, realizes real-time monitoring of anomalies as well as effective measurement of important construction parameters such as the tamping times and the falling distance of the hammer. Experimental results demonstrate that the method achieves accuracy of 100% under normal tamping conditions, and accuracy of no less than 95% even in tamping conditions involving abnormal behavior. • Constructed DCC state discrimination model based on bi-objective parallel features. • Proposed a method measuring tamping times using combined temporal-spatial features. • Established a model for estimating the duration of states based on prior data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • "Extra conjugation" method is developed for NIR TADF OLEDs with high radiance. • Intramolecular hydrogen bonds extend molecular conjugation for accurate modulation. • A high radiance of 95,894 m W Sr−1 m−2 with 744 nm peaked EL emission is realized. • Force and medicine induced SpO 2 variations are detected by 740 nm NIR TADF OLED. Real-time in-home monitoring oxygen saturation (SpO 2) is of great significance for early diagnosis and treatment of severe COVID-19, however, which should be based on multi-wavelength technology and complicated equipment. Herein, as a proof of concept, 740 nm is chosen as singlet light source for single-wavelength SpO 2 detection, since absorbance differences between oxyhemoglobin (HbO 2) and other interferences are the most rational. To controllably optimize excited-state characteristics of a near-infrared (NIR) thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters, an "extra conjugation" method is demonstrated by C NQP-TPA , whose 2,3-dicyanoquinoxaline phenanthroline (CNQP) acceptor forms strong intramolecular hydrogen bonds with two phenyls of triphenylamine (TPA) donors, which not only reduce excited-state relaxation-induced energy lose, but also provide more space for accurate modulation of intermolecular charge transfer (CT) interactions. As consequence, at the suitable doping concentration, CNQP-TPA endowed its device with a high radiance reaching ∼105 mW Sr−1 m−2 and desired electroluminescence peak at 744 nm. This device is further used as light source to detect SpO 2 variation under single-wavelength mode. These results indicate the potential of NIR TADF materials and devices for in-home SpO 2 monitoring and pre-diagnosis and prevention of severe COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypericin is widely utilized for its precise antidepressant properties, but its exact antidepressant mechanism remains unclear. Gap junctions, which were predominantly expressed in astrocytes in the central nervous system, are concerned with the pathogenesis of depression. However, the role of hypericin in gap junctional dysfunction in depression has rarely been investigated. Here, we found that gap junctions were ultra-structurally broadened in the chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) rat model of depression, while hypericin repaired the dysfunction of gap junctions. Suppression of gap junctions by bilateral injection of carbenoxolone (CBX) in the prefrontal cortex of rats significantly inhibited the restoration of gap junctional dysfunction in depression by hypericin. Meanwhile, hypericin failed to show antidepressant benefits. Furthermore, in corticosterone (CORT)-stimulated primary astrocytes derived from neonatal rats, hypericin dramatically reversed the phosphorylation of connexin 43 (Cx43), normalizing the expression of Cx43 and thereby ameliorating gap junctional dysfunction. Comparatively, CBX inhibited the remission of hypericin on gap junctional intercellular communication function. Gap junctional function might be a novel therapeutic target for hypericin in the treatment of depression and provide potential novel insights into the antidepressant mechanism of other herbal ingredients. [Display omitted] • Hypericin has therapeutic efficacy in treating depression. • Hypericin repaired the dysfunction of gap junctions in depression. • Hypericin interacts with Cx43-gap junction channel by molecular docking. • Hypericin relieves depression by improving Cx43-based gap junctional function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A comprehensive theoretical study of photophysical behaviors of 1,2-DHPs and 1,4-DHPs was carried out using the DFT and TDDFT methods. • The UV–Vis absorption and fluorescence emission spectra of a series of different substituent 1,2-DHPs and 1,4-DHPs were obtained. • The substituents at different positions on the 1,2-DHPs and 1,4-DHPs scaffolds play a different role in controlling the excitation energy and other photophysical properties. In this article, the photophysical properties of DHPs, including 1,2-DHPs and 1,4-DHPs, were studied experimentally and theoretically. Their structural differences bring about different photophysical properties, and also lead to different photochemical properties. Specifically, a series of different substituted 1,2-DHPs and 1,4-DHPs were synthesized to measure their UV–Vis absorption and fluorescence emission spectra in diluted solutions and theoretical calculations were performed at the density functional theory (DFT) level. To describe the reactivities of the DHPs, time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) was used to optimize their ground- and excited-state structures, and their electronic excitation energies were calculated at the B3LYP-D3/def2-TZVP level. Frontier molecular orbitals and electron-hole distribution analyses were used to illustrate the electron transition types. The differences between the ground- and excited-state structures of the different DHPs were characterized by carrying out a root-mean-square-deviation (RMSD) analysis. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The photophysical properties of heterocyclic analogs of 1,4-cyclohexadiene were studied by theoretical calculation and experiment. • Their photophysical and photochemical properties were found to be related to the incorporation of different heteroatoms on the 1,4-cyclohexadiene ring. • The photophysical properties of heterocyclic analogs of 1,4-cyclohexadiene are meaningful for explaining their photochemical reactivity. The photophysical and photochemical properties of a series of heterocyclic analogs of 1,4-cyclohexadiene were studied by theoretical calculation and experiment. With the incorporation of different heteroatoms, the analogs presented distinct photophysical and photochemical properties from 1,4-cyclohexadiene. Their ultraviolet–visible absorption spectra were measured and found to be related to the heteroatoms on the 1,4-cyclohexadiene ring. Calculation of the geometrical and electronic structures of the ground-states revealed that incorporation of the heteroatom affected the photophysical properties of the molecule. The de-excitation processes and electron transition modes were discussed according to the calculated values of the spin–orbit coupling matrix and the electron-hole distributions of the excited states. The reactive sites and geometrical structures showed that incorporation of a heteroatom into 1,4-cyclohexadiene changed the spin density distribution and thus influenced the photochemical properties. These findings are meaningful in explaining the photo-reactivities of these molecules, and provide foundations for further experimental/theoretical investigations and pharmacological applications based on established structure–property correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the intermolecular [2+2] cycloaddition of 1,2-dihydropyridines was achieved for the first time by visible light-catalyzed. A series of novel and complex cyclobutane derivatives, the dimers of diethyl 1,2-diaryl-1,2-dihydropyridine-3,5-dicarboxylate, were synthesized efficiently with visible light catalysts under the irradiation of blue LED lamps. The density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory were used to elucidate the detailed reaction processes, such as the reaction mechanism and the stereoselectivity of cycloaddition products. [Display omitted] • The intermolecular [2 + 2] cycloaddition of 1,2-dihydropyridines was achieved for the first time by visible light-catalyzed. • A series of novel and complex cyclobutane derivatives, the dimers of diethyl 1,2-diaryl-1,2-dihydropyridine-3,5-dicarboxylate, were synthesized efficiently with visible light catalysts under the irradiation of blue LED lamps. • The DFT and TDDFT theoretical calculations were carried out to reveal the reaction mechanism and the stereoselectivity of cycloaddition products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • "Asymmetric D-A-wA" strategy is demonstrated for high-efficiency red TADF emitters. • Diphenylphosphine oxide as the second acceptor markedly improves TADF properties. • Strong red emission peaked at 645 nm with a high PLQY of 94.7 % is realized. • The maxima of 19360 cd m−2 for luminance and 11.4 % for EQE at 632 nm are achieved. A feasible strategy of asymmetric donor–acceptor-second acceptor (D-A-A) structure is proposed for improving the photoluminecense (PL) and electroluminescence (EL) performance of red thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters. As a concept, four newly TADF emitters are designed and synthesized, D-A-A structure o TPAPO-DTPZ and p TPAPO-DTPZ and D-A-D type o DTPA-DTPZ and p DTPA-DTPZ, by using triphenylamine (TPA), dithieno[2,3- a :3′,2′- c ]phenazine (DTPZ) and diphenylphosphine oxide (DPPO) groups as the donor, acceptor and second acceptor, respectively. It is demonstrated that abound intra- and inter-molecular C H···O hydrogen bonds are forming between TPA donor and DPPO acceptor for the asymmetric compounds, which effectively promote the intra- and inter-molecular charge transfer. Moreover, the steric hindrance of DPPO group availably suppresses the concentration quenching. As a consequence, the asymmetric D-A-A structured o TPAPO-DTPZ and p TPAPO-DTPZ exhibit relatively higher PL quantum yields and lower nonradiation rates, and thus better EL performance. In particular, device based on p TPAPO-DTPZ achieves the maximum luminance of 19360 cd m−2 and external quantum efficiency of 11.4 % at 632 nm, which are 2.3 and 1.5 times the values of p DTPA-DTPZ based device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Near-infrared TADF emission from phenanthroline based molecule is demonstrated. • NIR emission and radiation efficiency are balanced in CNPP-TPA. • Strong NIR emission peaked at 701 nm with PLQY of 96.5% is realized. • A maximum EQE (8.69%) of vacuum-evaporated device peaked at 684 nm is achieved. • A maximum EQE (2.02%) of spin-coated device peaked at 700 nm is achieved. Efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters are of practical significance for realizing high-performance organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), which remains the great challenge for near-infrared (NIR) emitters because of their narrow bandgap worsened non-radiative transition. Herein, a NIR TADF molecule (CNPP-TPA) is reported, composed of 2,3-dicyanopyrazino phenanthroline (CNPP) as acceptor and triphenylamine as donor. The strong electron-withdrawing effect of CNPP and intramolecular hydrogen bond endow CNPP-TPA with efficient NIR photoluminescence emission peaked at 701 nm with a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 96.5%, owing to rapid singlet radiation and effective reverse intersystem crossing. Vacuum -evaporated and spin-coated organic light-emitting diodes exhibit the NIR emissions respectively peaked at 684 nm and 700 nm, corresponding to Commission International de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.68, 0.31) and (0.69, 0.30), respectively. Significantly, these two devices achieved the state-of-the-art external quantum efficiencies of 8.69% and 2.02%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea infusion is a colloidal system. As a first attempt to systematically characterize tea micro-nanoparticles, the effect of pH on colloidal properties of Lapsang souchong black tea infusion was investigated in this study. At the native pH 5 of black tea infusion, micro/nanoparticles were revealed by Cryo-TEM (Cryo-transmission electron microscopy) to be of a structure consisting of dominantly spherical polyphenol oxidase (PPO)-polyphenols complexes and surrounding linear polysaccharide chains with an average hydrodynamic diameter (D h) of 128 nm and ζ-potential of −23.7 mV. It is the first time to demonstrate the black tea micelle consists of spherical and fibrous nanostructures, possibly responding to protein and polysaccharides. Increasing pH resulted in a decrease in polyphenols content and the disassembling of the micro/nanostructure. On the other hand, the decrease of pH through their respective isoelectric points led to the formation of PPO-polyphenols complexes, polysaccharide aggregation, and further aggregations among different molecules and their complexes and a drastic increase in the precipitation when pH was lower than pH 5. The predominant effect of pH on colloidal properties of black tea infusion reveals an electrostatic nature of intramolecular and intermolecular interactions among PPO, polysaccharides and polyphenols. Those results provide new clues to a practical and effective quality control of black tea products as well as an insight into health benefits of black tea. • The black tea contains negatively charged NPs (Dh = 128 nm) at its native pH of 5. • Increasing pH induced the disassembly of the micro/nanostructure. • pH < 5, formation of complexes and precipitates was promoted. • Electrostatic interaction primarily defines the nanostructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is a refractory psychiatric disorder closely associated with dysfunction of the gap junctions (GJs) between astrocytes as well as neuroinflammation. Higenamine (Hig) is a potent cardiotonic ingredient in Fuzi (i.e., Aconitum carmichaeli Debx.) with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which has a significant protective effect on damaged nerve cells and has great potential for the treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases. Rats were stimulated by chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) for 28 days while given Hig (5, 10, 20 mg/kg) and then analyzed behaviorally by the open field test, sucrose preference test, and forced swimming test. Changes in astrocyte GJs function and morphology were observed by dye transfer and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. Expression and phosphorylation of connexin 43 (Cx43) were analyzed by Western blot. Also, considering the close relationship between depression and neuroinflammation, we determined the inflammatory response in serum with ELISA kits and analyzed the expression of inflammation-related proteins with Western blot. Hig ameliorated CUS-induced depression-like behavior in rats. Hig administration improved gap junctional dysfunction in astrocytes, reduced gap junctional gaps and elevated the expression of Cx43 and decreased the phosphorylation of Cx43. Meanwhile, Hig administration was also able to attenuate the inflammatory response that occurs after CUS in rats. For the role of Cx43 in depression, we did not validate it more deeply in animal models with knockout Cx43. In addition, GJs dysfunction might be associated with the inflammatory response seen in depression, but this needs to be further investigated. Hig ameliorates depression and exerts its antidepressant effect possibly by improving the dysfunctional GJs between astrocytes and the inflammatory response. [Display omitted] • Hig ameliorates CUS-induced depression-like behavior in rats. • Hig increases Cx43 expression and inhibits Cx43 phosphorylation in depressed rats. • Hig plays an antidepressant role by improving the gap junction function between astrocytes. • Hig was able to reduce the inflammatory response seen in depressed rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Catalase-induced vigorous superoxide production in fish oil nano-emulsion. • The resulting superoxide caused fatal oxidative damages in murine macrophage. • The fish oil induced cell death can be inhibited by a catalase-specific inhibitor. • The cell death involves ferroptosis but not apoptosis. • A hidden health risk of the fish oil nano-emulsion was discovered. Fish oil is increasingly utilised in the form of nano-emulsion as a nutrient and function fortifier. The nano-emulsions exceptionally high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids and electron donors at the oil/water interface provide an ideal site of the redox reaction. Here we report that a vigorous superoxide production in the fish oil nano-emulsion was catalysed by mammalian catalase in acellular and cellular systems. The resulting superoxide increased cytosolic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and membrane lipid peroxidation of murine macrophage, which eventually causes fatal oxidative damages. Cell death, was significantly inhibited by a catalase-specific inhibitor 3-Amino-1,2,4-triazole (3-AT), was via ferroptosis and not apoptosis. The ferroptosis was independent of free iron or glutathione peroxidase suppression. Our findings discovered a hidden health risk of the widely acclaimed fish oil emulsion, suggesting a novel cellular damage mechanism caused by dietary unsaturated fats on the alimentary tract mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemokines and their corresponding receptors play crucial roles in orchestrating inflammatory and immune responses, particularly in the context of pathological conditions disrupting the internal environment. Among these receptors, CCR5 has garnered considerable attention due to its significant involvement in the inflammatory cascade, serving as a pivotal mediator of neuroinflammation and other inflammatory pathways associated with various diseases. However, a notable gap persists in comprehending the intricate mechanisms governing the interplay between CCR5 and its ligands across diverse and intricate inflammatory pathologies. Further exploration is warranted, especially concerning the inflammatory cascade instigated by immune cell infiltration and the precise binding sites within signaling pathways. This study aims to illuminate the regulatory axes modulating signaling pathways in inflammatory cells by providing a comprehensive overview of the pathogenic processes associated with CCR5 and its ligands across various disorders. The primary focus lies on investigating the pathomechanisms associated with CCR5 in disorders related to neuroinflammation, alongside the potential impact of aging on these processes and therapeutic interventions. The discourse culminates in addressing current challenges and envisaging potential future applications, advocating for innovative research endeavors to advance our comprehension of this realm. [Display omitted] • To summarize the mechanism of aging involved in ccr5 signaling pathway transduction. • To summarize the neurologic mechanism of aging and CCR5-mediated inflammation. • To summarize the mechanism of aging and CCR5's involvement in other diseases. • Explore the potential targets of CCR5 in different organs. • To explore the progress of drug research on CCR5 as a single or combined target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agricultural green revolution spectacularly enhanced crop yield through modification of gibberellin (GA) signaling. However, in cotton, the GA signaling cascades remain elusive, limiting our potential to cultivate new cotton varieties and improve yield and quality. Here, we identified that GA prominently stimulated fiber elongation through the degradation of DELLA protein GhSLR1, thereby disabling GhSLR1's physical interaction with two transcription factors, GhZFP8 and GhBLH1. Subsequently, the resultant free GhBLH1 binds to GhKCS12 promoter and activates its expression to enhance VLCFAs biosynthesis. With a similar mechanism, the free GhZFP8 binds to GhSDCP1 promoter and activates its expression. As a result, GhSDCP1 upregulates the expression of GhPIF3 gene associated with plant cell elongation. Ultimately, the two parallel signaling cascades synergistically promote cotton fiber elongation. Our findings outline the mechanistic framework that translates the GA signal into fiber cell elongation, thereby offering a roadmap to improve cotton fiber quality and yield. [Display omitted] • Gibberellins promotes fiber cell elongation by degrading GhSLR1 • GhSLR1 interacts with two transcription factors, GhZFP8 and GhBLH1 • GhBLH1 activates the transcription of GhKCS12 and enhances VLCFA biosynthesis • GhZFP8 activates the expression of GhPIF3 by upregulating GhSDCP1 in cotton He et al. identified two signaling cascades, GhSLR1-GhZFP8- GhSDCP1 - GhPIF3 and GhSLR1-GhBLH1- GhKCS12 , which translate the gibberellins signal to regulate cotton fiber cell elongation. This finding can be potentially used in the field to improve cotton fiber quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing S-scheme heterojunctions is an effective method to improve the charge localization on the surface of photocatalysts. Their effective charge transport routes can be enhanced with the help of interfacial noble metal nanoparticles. Herein, an Ag/CuO@ZnIn 2 S 4 plasma S-scheme heterojunction with heterogeneous interfacial covalent bonds was successfully designed. The 15% Ag/CuO@ZnIn 2 S 4 has promising photocatalytic performance and stability with the highest CO and CH 4 yields of 6.9 and 54.4 µmol g−1 h−1 and CH 4 selectivity of 92.8%. It is evidenced that the photogenerated charge can be efficiently separated and transported due to the influence of both the S-scheme electron migration mode and the Cu-S covalent bond. The process is further accelerated by using precious metals as cocatalysts, which can then selectively convert CO 2 into CH 4. This research is expected to provide helpful information for engineering S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts and investigating their charge transfer kinetics. [Display omitted] • Design of a S-scheme heterojunction to promote the separation of carriers. • Built the Cu-S bonds to accelerate the transfer of charges. • Utilizing the LSPR effect to generate hot electrons and enhance light absorption. • The Ag/CuO@ZnIn 2 S 4 photocatalysts can selectively reduce CO 2 to CH 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wide-light absorption performance and efficient carrier separation ability are the necessary conditions for excellent photocatalytic materials. In this research, g-C 3 N 4 QDs (CN QDs) and Au nano-particles (NPs) co-modified CeO 2 /Fe 3 O 4 micro-flowers (MFs) photocatalyst (CACeF) has been prepared. CO 2 photoreduction experiments showed that the composite had obviously enhanced photoreduction activity and photocatalytic stability. The yields of CO and CH 4 over it as catalyst in 4 h is about 5 and 8 times greater than that of pure CeO 2. Photoelectrochemical tests showed that the heterojunction between CN QDs and Au NPs can greatly improve the carrier separation ability and the light-utilization efficiency of photocatalysts. Besides, the excellent electronic transmission performance of Au NPs provided a specific channel for the electron transmission, and the strong local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of Au NPs resulted in a lot of hot-electrons can directly take part in the CO 2 photoreduction. The synergistic effect between CN QDs and Au NPs can further enhance the photocatalytic activity of the photocatalyst. Fe 3 O 4 QDs can ensure the effective recovery and reuse of the composite without affecting the photocatalytic performance of composite. Finally, a potential photoreduction mechanism of CN QDs and Au NPs co-modified CeO 2 /Fe 3 O 4 MFs photocatalyst were discussed in total. [Display omitted] • g-C3N4 QDs/Au NPs/CeO2/Fe3O4 has been prepared for the CO2 photoreduction. • Light-absorption performance of photocatalyst has been greatly enhanced. • Au efficiently speeds up the electrons' generation efficiency in semiconductors. • Synergistic effect of CN QDs/Au NPs enhanced the photoreduction performance. • Fe3O4 QDs can ensure the recovery without affecting the photocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• NiGa-LDHis firstly synthesized by simple hydrothermal method. • Ni 2 P and NiGa 2 O 4 are grown in situ on the NiGa-LDH by selectivephosphating. • DFT calculations confirm positive effect of phosphating on the conductivity of NiGa-LDH. • The Ni 2 P/NiGa 2 O 4 -1.2/NiGa-LDH/NF//Co 3 O 4 -C(72Wh kg-1) can light multiple LEDs in parallel. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) materials are ideal electrode materials for supercapacitors (SCs) due to their high capacitance, large surface area and fast redox reaction. However, the limited reaction site of LDHs is one of the main obstacles to increasing the capacitance of SCs. Here, NiGa-LDH grown on nickel foam (NF) by one-step hydrothermal method is derived into Ni 2 P/NiGa 2 O 4 /NiGa-LDH/NF by partial phosphating method induced by NaH 2 PO 2. Ni 0.5 Ga 0.5 -LDH/NF has good electrochemical performance, and the capacitance can reach 295 mAh g−1 (2124F g−1) when the current density is 1 A g−1. Significantly, Ni 2 P/NiGa 2 O 4 /NiGa-LDH/NF well preserves the layered structure of LDHs, inherits the low transfer impedance of interlayer ions, and can greatly reduce the thickness of the nanosheets, exposing more active sites and speeding up the electron transfer speed. According to the first principle calculation, Ni 2 P and NiGa 2 O 4 formed by phosphating helps to increase the free electron ratio in Ni 2 P/NiGa 2 O 4 /NiGa-LDH/NF, thus improving the charge transfer behavior in electrochemical reactions. The material can provide an ultra-high electrochemical capacity of 454.7 mAh g−1 (3274F g−1) at 1 A g−1. In addition, a hybrid supercapacitors (HSCs) is prepared by coupling the Co 3 O 4 -C as negative electrode with the high capacitance Ni 2 P/NiGa 2 O 4 /NiGa-LDH/NF as positive electrode. Ni 2 P/NiGa 2 O 4 /NiGa-LDH/NF // Co 3 O 4 -C HSCs provides the energy density of 72 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 800 W kg−1 with excellent long-term stability up to 8000 cycles, and is expected to be used in next-generation energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The ternary metal NiCoGa-LDHs is firstly synthesized by simple hydrothermal method. • The morphology, crystal structure stability and capacitance of NiCoGa-LDHs are systematically studied. • The Ni 1 Co 3 Ga 1 -LDHs@CC electrode exhibits excellent capacitance of 2012.5 F g-1 at 1 A g-1. • The asymmetric supercapacitor (84.22 Wh kg-1) can light multiple LEDs in parallel. Ternary metal layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have been widely used in supercapacitors (SCs) due to their polyvalent state and high electrochemical activity. In this study, Ga (III) doped NiCo layered double hydroxides (NiCoGa-LDHs) electrode material is prepared on carbon cloth (CC) by simple one-step hydrothermal method for the first time. The effects of Ga3+ with different molar ratios on the structure, morphology, crystallinity, ion transport mechanics and electrochemical properties of ternary LDHs electrode materials are systematically investigated. At Ga3+ = 1.0, the as-synthesized Ni 1 Co 3 Ga 1 -LDHs@CC exhibits a special electrochemical capacitance of 2012.5 F g-1 at 1 A g-1 with 57.7% capacitance retention observed at 5.0 A g-1. The synthesis and evaluation of the two bimetallic NiCo-LDHs and NiGa-LDHs are similar in order to demonstrate the performance improvement of gallium heterovalent substitution. And heterovalent substitution of gallium for cobalt ion and nickel ion is proved indirectly. An Asymmetric supercapacitors (ASCs) device is assembled with Ni 1 Co 3 Ga 1 -LDHs@CC as anode and mesoporous carbon (MPC) as cathode, providing a high energy density of 84.22 Wh kg-1 at a power density of 800.1 W kg-1, with excellent cyclic stability. This study provides a new way to improve the electrochemical performance and stability of ternary metal LDHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Co–CeO 2 was used to activate the PMS for degrading PET plastics. • The degradation rate reached 91.61 % in 6 h after adding 1 mL H 2 O 2 and 5 mM PMS. • Several factors, such as pH and anions, were considered. • SO 4 − played a crucial role in the degradation, compared to OH, O 2 −, and 1O 2. • The possible mechanism of photocatalysis/PMS degradation of PET was proposed. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, widely used for packaging owing to its excellent properties, has become a major contributor to plastic waste, for which satisfactory recycling and upgrading treatment technologies are lacking. In this study, Co-doped CeO 2 was used as a photocatalyst to degrade PET plastics in water, and PET degradation was measured according to the weight loss rate. Peroxymonosulfate (PMS) addition to the photocatalytic system enabled the degradation of 53.82 ± 4.48 % of PET plastics, highlighting the excellent PET plastic degradation capability of the photocatalytic PMS system. The study investigated the effects of the catalyst-to-plastic ratio, PMS concentration, initial pH, inorganic anions, humic acid concentration, and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) addition on the catalytic oxidation system. Contrast experiments revealed that H 2 O 2 addition to the photocatalysis/PMS oxidation system further improved the PET plastic degradation efficiency (91.61 ± 1.50 %). Liquid product analysis, electron paramagnetic resonance, and free radical quenching experiments confirmed that SO 4 − played the most significant role in PET degradation. Finally, a possible mechanism for the degradation of PET plastics in water using the photocatalysis/PMS oxidation system was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The dual-plasma enhanced g-C 3 N 4 /Pd/MoO 3-x heterojunction was fabricated for high-selectivity photocatalytic CO 2 reduction. • The g-C 3 N 4 /Pd/MoO 3-x composites revealed excellent near-infrared absorption ability. • The carrier separation efficiency was effectively improved under the synergistic effect of MoO 3-x and Pd nanosheets. • The g-C 3 N 4 /Pd/MoO 3-x S-scheme heterojunction displayed high photocatalytic performance and CO selectivity. • The S-scheme charge transfer mechanism was proposed based on UPS and ESR results. The localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect has shown significant progress in enhancing the efficiency of light absorption and separating photogenerated carriers. Herein, the dual-plasma enhanced 2D/2D/2D g-C 3 N 4 /Pd/MoO 3-x (CPM) S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts were synthesized using the method of hydrothermal and electrostatic self-assembly for high-selectivity photocatalytic reduction of CO 2 to produce CO. The dual LSPR effect of MoO 3-x and ultrathin Pd nanosheets synergistically broadened the optical response range of the CPM composites and successfully improved the photocatalytic activity and near-infrared (NIR) performance. The optimized CPM-30 photocatalysts exhibited CO yields of 18.55 μmol g−1 with a selectivity of 96.3%. In addition, the CO yield reached 3.92 μmol g−1 after 4 h of NIR light photoirradiation. The electron spin resonance (ESR) and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) tests showed that the S-scheme heterojunctions were constructed by coupling g-C 3 N 4 /Pd nanosheets and MoO 3-x. This work will provide a reference for improving product selectivity through the design of two-dimensional composites and the utilization of plasma materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• SnS 2 atomic layer with Pt 3 Co nanoclusters have been successfully prepared. • Nanoclusters can enrich electrons, reduce barriers, and promote proton transport. • The photoelectric properties of catalysts is significantly enhanced. • The CO 2 photoreduction efficiency of the SnS 2 /Pt 3 Co catalyst is markedly improved. Poor capability of charge-holes separation and slower surface CO 2 reaction kinetics hinder photocatalytic performance. Here, SnS 2 atomic layer with Pt 3 Co alloy nanoclusters have been successfully prepared. Nanoclusters could be used as highly catalytic active sites, which not only facilitates the carrier separation and transport kinetics, but enriches electrons lowered the reaction barrier. As expected, the CO evolution rate of the champion SnS 2 /Pt 3 Co catalyst was 13.6 times higher than that of the original SnS 2 catalyst under white light irradiation. In-situ DRIFTS identifies key intermediate in the photoreduction process. In-situ XPS and DFT calculation further verifies the electron transport direction and charge density distribution at the SnS 2 /Pt 3 Co interface. Our work uncovers the role of nanoclusters in carrier separation and transport as well as proton transport, opening new chances for obtaining efficient photoreduction CO 2 property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interfacial regulation strategy between semiconductors can effectively promote the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers and enhance photocatalytic activity under the synergistic effect. Herein, AgInS 2 QDs-MoS 2 /GO (AIS-MS/GO) composites were prepared by interfacial coupling of AgInS 2 QDs (AIS), hierarchical MoS 2 and ultrathin GO. Ultrathin GO successfully solved the agglomeration problem of AIS and hierarchical MoS 2. Moreover, the photogenerated carriers were effectively separated and transferred under the synergistic effect of the AIS-MS heterojunction and ultrathin GO, thus promoting tetracycline (TC) degradation and CO 2 reduction performance. The degradation rate of tetracycline (TC) reached 96.5 %, and the yields of CO and CH 4 in the CO 2 reduction products reached 52.6 and 28.5 μmol g–1, respectively, when using the optimized photocatalyst. In-situ FTIR analysis indicated that TC is gradually degraded by small molecules on the composite surface, and has excellent dissociation ability of water molecules during the CO 2 reduction process. This work provides a new vision for the rational design of heterojunction-based photocatalysts using the interfacial regulation strategy for enhancing interfacial charge separation and photocatalytic performance. [Display omitted] • AIS-MS/GO composites were prepared via the interfacial regulation strategy. • The photogenerated carriers were effectively separated and transferred under synergistic and interfacial effects. • The aggregation problem of AIS and hierarchical MoS 2 was effectively solved. • AIS-MS/GO composites achieve a 96.5 % TC degradation rate and 35.1 % selectivity for CH 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The UCN@ZIS/SWNTs composite with different V Zn concentrations was constructed for photocatalytic CO 2 reduction. • The UCN was acidified to regulate the surface-active site for CO 2 activation and H 2 O dissociation. • The SWNTs further improves the separation efficiency of photogenerated electron-hole pairs by providing charge transfer channels. • The UCN@rZIS/SWNTs composite displays excellent photocatalytic performance and CH 4 selectivity. Zinc vacancy (V Zn) concentrations were successfully regulated on the hierarchical flower spherical ZnIn 2 S 4 (ZIS) by controlling the hydrothermal temperature. The photo-electrochemical experiments indicated that the carrier separation efficiency of ultrathin-g-C 3 N 4 @ZIS/SWNTs (UCN@ZIS/SWNTs) composite with different V Zn concentrations (poor-V Zn ZIS (pZIS) and rich-V Zn ZIS (rZIS)) had an efficient improvement because of the construction of UCN@ZIS heterojunction and the multiple channels for charge transfer provided by SWNTs. In-situ FTIR results indicate that the presence of V Zn and the enriched surface-active site on UCN contributes to CO 2 activation and H 2 O dissociation. Additionally, the yield of CO and CH 4 over UCN@rZIS/SWNTs composite reached 33.7 µmol g−1 and 39.8 µmol g−1, respectively, and the selectivity of CH 4 reached 54.1 % under the synergistic effect of V Zn , the surface-active site of UCN and charge-transfer channels. This work established an ideal defect model for enhancing CO 2 photocatalytic reduction performance and product selectivity, which may provide a new way to improve photocatalytic efficiency and a better understanding of the photocatalytic reaction mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two diazatetraasteranes were synthesized by regioselective photocycloaddition. • The synthesis and crystal characteristics of two diazatetraasteranes were compared and analyzed. • The crystal packing of 3,9-diazatetraasterane had a layered arrangement and 3,6-diazatetraasterane had a zigzag-shaped arrangement. 3,6-diazatetraasterane and 3,9-diazatetraasterane are diazatetraasterane derivatives and cage-dimers of 1,4-dihydropyridine in head-to-head or head-to-tail manner by the regioselective [2+2] photocycloaddition. They were synthesized and their structures were verified by NMR spectra, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and Single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The results showed that the molecular structure of 3,6-diazatetraasterane with a C 1 symmetric property and the 3,9-diazatetraasterane with a C 2 symmetric property. The molecular packing arrangement of 3,6-diazatetraasterane was in the zigzag-shape, and the 3,9-diazatetraasterane was in layer-like architecture. The non-covalent interaction (NCI) and Hirshfeld surface analysis were conducted to characterize and visualize the intramolecular and intermolecular interactions. The molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) was calculated to predict electrophilic and nucleophilic regions. The results will provide a theoretical basis for further studies on chemical properties and pharmacological application of the azatetraasterane derivatives. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metal ions play a decisive role in regulating the redox balance of cells and subsequentially alter cellular functions. The pacifying ("cold") or irritating ("hot") effects of food on the human body have been traditionally recognized and utilized by Chinese for hundreds of years. The principal components of fruits and vegetables corresponding to these effects have been identified to be magnesium, iron, and copper cations in combination. This study aims to elucidate the regulatory effects of the three cations on the oxidative responses and inflammatory cytokines production in RAW264.7 macrophages. Two "cold" solutions and two "hot" solutions were prepared with MgSO 4 , FeSO 4 , and CuSO 4. The contents of three cations were calculated with a previously established regression equation and set to the physiologically meaningful levels (at ppm). It was found that the "cold" solution exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the macrophages. They reduced the intracellular ROS level and restored the mitochondrial respiratory of the AAPH-insulted macrophages, while suppressing the LPS-induced expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the cells. Conversely, the "hot" solutions exhibited pro-oxidative and pro-inflammatory effects as they increased the intracellular ROS and expression of inflammatory cytokines in normal cells. It demonstrates the bidirectional regulation of the Mg2+, Cu2+, and Fe2+ cocktails on oxidative and inflammatory responses of murine macrophages. Inspired by the traditional Chinese food concept, the outcome of this study provides a new perspective and useful tool for future research and innovations in healthy and sustainable food. • The Mg2+, Cu2+, and Fe2+ cocktails could bidirectionally regulate the macrophages. • The "cold" mineral solutions exhibited antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activity. • The "hot" mineral solutions possessed pro-oxidative and pro-inflammatory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

S-scheme heterojunction of In 2 O 3 /H 1.5 CN/2Au was prepared by hydrothermal, acidizing and calcination methods. The two-dimensional thin layer H 1.5 CN avoided the aggregation of In 2 O 3 and completed the S-scheme charge transfer with In 2 O 3. Moreover, Au not only enhanced the visible light absorption capacity of composites but also provided more active sites for CO 2 reduction. [Display omitted] • S-scheme heterojunction of In 2 O 3 /H 1.5 CN/2Au achieve CO 2 photocatalytic conversion to CO and CH 4. • The enhanced photocatalytic activity results from effective interfacial charge migration and separation and increased active sites. • The LSPR effect of Au improves the utilization of visible light. The construction of S-scheme heterojunction is of great significance for the photocatalytic reduction of CO 2. Here, we prepared two-dimensional (2D) ultra-thin g-C 3 N 4 by acidifying the carbon nitride precursor, and used In 2 O 3 to construct a S-scheme heterojunction with 2D g-C 3 N 4 , and finally In 2 O 3 /H 1.5 CN was modified with Au nanoparticles. The physicochemical properties of the prepared materials were studied by SEM/TEM, XPS, DRS, PL and photochemical test. Meantime, the S-scheme charge transfer mechanism was demonstrated by UPS and ESR. As a result, on the one hand, S-scheme heterojunction accelerated the transfer of electrons on the CB of In 2 O 3 to the VB of g-C 3 N 4 , avoided the recombination of photon-generated carrier. On the other hand, Au, as an effective cocatalyst, promoted photoinduced electron transfer and provided more active sites for CO 2 reduction and the local surface plasmon resonance phenomenon caused by Au NPs enhanced the visible light absorption capacity of the composite material. Moreover, 2D thin layer of g-C 3 N 4 played a carrier effect to disperse In 2 O 3 cube. Therefore, In 2 O 3 /H 1.5 CN/2Au had stable CO 2 reduction products, and the yields of CO/CH 4 reached 141.24/77.05 μmol/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 15D/R achieve near 99.6% selectivity at the gas–solid interface for UV–Vis light-driven CO 2 reduction to CO, with a rate of 42.41 μmol·g−1. The high conductivity of RGO and the strong interaction with DUT-67 enhanced the electron coupling effect, which was conducive to the separation of carriers. The rapid formation of HCOO− and the rapid desorption of CO are responsible for the high CO yield and selectivity. [Display omitted] • The DUT-67/RGO aerogel are first prepared for CO 2 reduction in a gas–solid system. • 15D/R achieve near 99.6% selectivity for UV–Vis light-driven CO 2 reduction to CO. • Separation efficiency of carriers is the main reason for the improvement of CO yield. Herein, DUT-67/RGO aerogel photocatalysts with three-dimensional (3D) macroscopic morphology were first prepared by a facile hydrothermal and freeze-drying process. It was observed that DUT-67 endowed aerogels with strong adsorption/activation capacity for CO 2 molecules. Besides, RGO not only dispersed DUT-67 as a macroscopic carrier, but also improved the utilization rate of light energy. The high conductivity of RGO and the strong interaction with DUT-67 enhanced the electron coupling effect, which was conducive to the separation of carriers. 15D/R achieved near 99.6% selectivity at the gas–solid interface for UV–Vis light-driven CO 2 reduction to CO, with a rate of 42.41 μmol·g−1. The adsorption behavior of products at the interface and formation process of intermediates were monitored based on CO-TPD and in situ Fourier transform infrared spectra. The extremely high selectivity for CO came from the weak adsorption of CO on the surface of 15D/R and formation of CH 4 required more complex intermediates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This study dynamically monitored antibiotic-derived resistance using a portable Raman spectrometer. • The molecular changes in drug-resistant strains can be rapidly and sensitively recorded by SERS in a whole-cell manner. • PC-LDA applied to bacterial SERS profiles can correctly distinguish among varying degree of resistant strains. • The MIC value showed a non-linear correlation with I 734 / I 867 , and R2 reached above 0.90. • SERS results were consistent with the K−B test, MIC determination, and PCR results. Rapid and quantitative detection of bacterial antibiotic resistance is of great significance for the prevention and treatment of infections and understanding drug-resistant mechanism. In this study, label-free surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technology was applied to dynamically explore oxacillin/cefazolin-derived resistance in Staphylococcus aureus using a portable Raman spectrometer. The results showed that S. aureus rapidly responded to oxacillin/cefazolin stimulation and gradually developed different degrees of drug resistance during the 21 days of exposure. The molecular changes that accumulated in the drug-resistant strains were sensitively recorded by SERS in a whole-cell manner. Principal components-linear discriminant analysis correctly distinguished various degrees of drug-resistant strains. The typical Raman peak intensities of I 734 / I 867 showed a negative and non-linear correlation with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The correlation coefficient reached above 0.9. The target sites of oxacillin/cefazolin on S. aureus clearly reflected on SERS profiles. The results collected by SERS were further verified by other biological methods including the antibiotic susceptibility test, MIC determination, and PCR results. This study indicates that SERS technology provides a rapid and flexible alternative to current drug susceptibility testing, laying a foundation for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of drug resistance in clinical detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are a promising positive electrode material for super-capacitors (SCs) due to multiple oxidation reduction states. However, the structure of LDH is prone to collapse during the redox reaction and has low conductivity, which further hinders the improvement of capacity performance. Here in, nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dot (N-GQD) is assembled on nickel gallium layered double hydroxide (NiGa-LDH) derived from two-dimension nickel metal organic frameworks (Ni-MOF) on nickel foam (NF) to prepare stable interlaced nano-sheets hybrid structures. As a result of the above synergies, the NiGa-LDH/N-GQD/NF electrode has a high specific capacitance of 2160 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and good cycling stability with a capacity retention rate of 87.5% in 5000 cycles. In addition, we also make ASC device using NiGa-LDH/N-GQD/NF and Carbon NSs as positive/negative electrodes. The energy density of the assembled ASC device is 78.8 Wh kg−1 at power density of 1432.7 W kg−1, while the capacitance retention after 8000 cycles reaches 81.2%. Meanwhile, individually assembled ASC device can power multiple LEDs in parallel. This work provides an effective way to construct new electrode materials with high energy storage density, good cycling performance and power density by assembling quantum dots into LDH nano-sheets derived from MOF through reasonable design. The NiGa-LDH/N-GQD electrode material prepared on nickel foam has good capacity and cycling stability due to the synergistic effect of interleave NiGa-LDH nano-sheet derived from Ni-MOF and N-GQD embedded in it. [Display omitted] • NiGa-LDH/N-GQD/NF is firstly synthesized by simple hydrothermal method. • The NiGa-LDH derived from the Ni-MOF prepared on nickel foam with interleaved nano-sheet hybrid structure have large specific surface area and can provide more reaction sites. • The introduction of N-GQD plays an important role in improving the electrical conductivity and surface wettability of electrodes. • The NiGa-LDH/N-GQD-2/NF//Carbon NSs asymmetric supercapacitors device (78.8 Wh kg−1) can light multiple LEDs in parallel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

rGO modified g-C 3 N 4 /R-CeO 2 Multi-interface contact S-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst maximizes the transfer efficiency of photogenerated electron and the CO 2 adsorption ability, thus greatly improving the CO 2 photoreduction performance. [Display omitted] • 2D-1D-2D g-C 3 N 4 /R-CeO 2 /rGO photocatalyst has been prepared for CO 2 photoreduction. • 2D-1D-2D multi-interface contact structure is of help for carrier transfer process. • π-π conjugation effect and Ce4+/Ce3+ transformation facilitate electron transmission. • In-situ FTIR and 13C isotope tracer tests analysis the CO 2 photoreduction mechanism. Construction of multi-interface contact step-scheme (S-scheme) photocatalyst is a promising pathway to achieve high-electron transfer efficiency for photocatalytic CO 2 reduction. In this paper, g-C 3 N 4 nanosheets were selected as the main photocatalyst, rod-like CeO 2 (R-CeO 2) with unique Ce4+→Ce3+ conversion property and rGO were loaded on the g-C 3 N 4 surface to construct 2D-1D-2D sandwich photocatalyst. The yields of CO and CH 4 were about 63.18 and 32.67 μmol/g after 4 h when the rGO/R-CeO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 was used as catalyst, which were about 4 and 6 times higher than that of pure CN, respectively. Cyclic experiments proved that the composite had excellent photocatalytic and material stability. Photoelectrochemical tests showed that the construction of S-scheme electron transfer model and the introduction of rGO can great enhance the electron transmission and separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. CO 2 adsorption test identified that the loading of R-CeO 2 and rGO obviously enhanced the CO 2 adsorption ability of pure g-C 3 N 4. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations used to analyze the electron transfer path and the formation of the build-in electric field at the semiconductor interface. In-situ FTIR and 13CO 2 element-tracer detection carried out to research the process of CO 2 photoreduction. A possible multi-interface contact S-scheme electron transfer mechanism for enhanced CO 2 photoreduction activity has been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]