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[Display omitted] • FCDI effectively removes Cr (VI) from wastewater using CNT incorporated AC flow-electrode at lower voltage. • Coexisting ions have minimal impact on Cr (VI) removal efficiency. • FCDI transforms hazardous Cr (VI) to less toxic Cr (III) form. • CNT incorporation improves the contact efficiency and accelerates charge transfer between AC particles. The contamination of wastewater with hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI) poses significant health and environmental risks. To alleviate this challenge, our research explores the potential of flow electrodes capacitive deionization (FCDI) technique, an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly approach, for Cr (VI) removal and detoxification. We incorporated varying weight loadings of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into activated carbon (AC) flowable electrodes, and assessed the system's performance under different operational conditions. Our findings revealed that by adding just 1.5 wt% CNT to AC and applying a voltage of 0.9 V, the current response increased 3.4 times compared to that of pure AC flowable electrode, resulting in a remarkable Cr (VI) removal efficiency of 99.5 %. This study also revealed that the presence of high concentrations of co-existed chloride ions (Cl−) did not significantly influence the efficiency of Cr (VI) removal. Incorporation of CNT in AC flow electrodes reduced the inter-tube aggregation and enhanced the contact efficiency between the AC particles, forming a connecting percolation network and enhancing the conductivity of the slurry electrodes for Cr (VI) removal. In addition to Cr (VI) removal, FCDI technique transformed extremely dangerous Cr (VI) to less toxic Cr (III) from 5.4 to 49.8 % during multiple cycles. In summary, we presented an innovative, efficient, eco-friendly approach for Cr (VI) removal and detoxicity by using CNTs incorporated electrodes, underscoring the potential FCDI technology in heavy metal disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The dissolution difficulty in metal chlorine solution followed the order of HgSO 4 < HgO < HgS. • NaCl, KCl, CeCl 3 , MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 solutions could react with HgSO 4 to generate HgCl 2. • MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 solutions could react with HgO to produce HgCl 2. • Only CuCl 2 could react with HgS to produce HgCl 2. • CuCl 2 solution could protect active site of metal oxide adsorbents and avoid the reduction of HgCl 2 to Hg 2 Cl 2. Washing regeneration of Hg adsorbent not only has good economic benefits, but also effectively avoids the secondary pollution of Hg caused by the accumulation or landfill of used Hg adsorbents. The common Hg-containing substances on used Hg adsorbent are HgS, HgO, HgSO 4 , and HgCl 2 , which requires the solution to be able to react with insoluble HgS, HgO, and HgSO 4 to produce easy-soluble HgCl 2. Considering the characteristics of containing Cl ion and oxidation capacity, metal chloride solution was chosen for washing regeneration of Hg adsorbent. In this study, the reaction between HgS, HgO, HgSO 4 and metal chlorine solutions including NaCl, KCl, CeCl 3 , MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 were separately studied using thermodynamic calculation software (FactSage 5.2). The subsequent supporting experiments were also conducted for verifying the correctness of thermodynamic calculation. The results showed that without the input of external energy, all the NaCl, KCl, CeCl 3 , MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 solutions could react with HgSO 4 to generate HgCl 2. While only MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 solutions could react with HgO to produce HgCl 2 , and only CuCl 2 solution could react with HgS to produce HgCl 2. The leaching and dissolution difficulty in metal chlorine solution followed the increasing order of HgSO 4 < HgO < HgS. Finally, the feasibility of the precipitation method using NaOH solution for separating Hg2+ was verified by combining the thermodynamic calculation results, characterization and tests (ICP-OES and Hg-XPS) results. Considering CuCl 2 was the only solution that could react HgS, HgO, and HgSO 4 to produce HgCl 2 , and could protect active site of common metal oxide for Hg removal, as well as had a good oxidation ability for avoiding the reduction of HgCl 2 to insoluble Hg 2 Cl 2 , CuCl 2 solution was finally determined as the suitable solution for washing regeneration of Hg adsorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Magnetic luffa sponge derived graphene aerogel incorporated with CuFe 2 O 4. • Aerogels with excellent superhydrophobic stability and high surface area. • High adsorption capacity and selectively with excellent recyclability. • Magnetic control technology for continuous oil–water separation. In this study, a novel magnetic composite material comprising luffa sponge derived graphene aerogel embedded with hollow CuFe 2 O 4 nanospheres (LGN) is successfully synthesised for the first time by a clean and low-cost one-step solvothermal electrostatic co-assembly method. The resultant LGN aerogel exhibits superhydrophobic and superoleophilic properties with the water and oil contact angles of 162.1° and 0°, respectively, along with magnetic properties characterized by the saturation magnetization of 51.6 emu/g, and a large specific surface area of 218.8 m2/g. The saturation sorption capacity of LGN for organic solvents/oil is found to be in the range of 47.6–86.8 g/g, exhibiting an excellent oil/water emulsion separation ability. Through the capillary action, oil and organic solvents spontaneously penetrate into the interior of the aerogel, while the superhydrophobic surface prevents water from entering, thereby enabling the separation of oil and water. These characteristics enable the real-time sorption of organic pollutants from water, with the capability of exhausted sorbent being regenerated. Notably, even after 20 sorption-volatilisation cycles, the saturated sorption capacity of LGN remains high at the 92.2 % of the initial value, demonstrating a remarkable recycling performance. In addition, LGN can exhibit an oriented sorption performance by controlling the applied magnetic field, enabling sorbent recycling even under extreme environmental conditions. Such an effective strategy offers a new route to high value utilisation of biomass waste with significant potential in the field of oil spill treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The influence of gasification medium on Hg0 release and oxidation were elucidated. • The inhibition and promotion of gasification products on Hg0 oxidation were explained. • The advantages and disadvantages of common OC on Hg0 oxidation were summarized. • The effects of reaction temperature and reactor configuration on Hg0 release and oxidation were introduced. • Appropriate H 2 O(g) content, OC with weak adsorption and strong oxidation capacity, and suitable AR temperature were suggested. Chemical looping combustion (CLC) of coal can effective achieve the capture and storage of CO 2 , reduce the emission of NO x , and realize the energy cascade utilization. During the process of CLC, mercury (Hg) will release from coal and enrich in gas. If Hg has not been effectively treated, it will not only cause the serious harm to human body and environment, but also affect the purification and storage of CO 2 by mixing with CO 2 , as well as lead to the corrosion of equipment, which highlights the importance of Hg removal in CLC. This review summarized the influence and mechanism of gasification medium (signal CO 2 , signal H 2 O vapor, as well as mixture of CO 2 and H 2 O vapor), gasification products (CO, H 2 , NH 3 , HCl, and H 2 S), oxygen carrier (single metal oxides of Fe 2 O 3 , MnO 2 , Co 3 O 4 , CuO, and CeO 2 , CaSO 4 , mixed OC, and natural-ores OC), reaction temperature, as well as reactor configuration in fuel reactor and air reactor on the release, oxidation, and transfer of Hg in CLC of coal. Based on these above, several suggestions about the selection of appropriate H 2 O(g) content to minimize the release of Hg and promote the oxidation of Hg0, the selection of OC with weak adsorption capacity and strong oxidation performance, the preparation and application of Cu, Mn, Co spinel structured oxides for promoting the catalytic oxidation of Hg0 in CLC high-temperature furnace, and the choice of an appropriate air reactor temperature to maximize the oxidation of Hg0 in the AR and reduce the escape of Hg from the AR outlet were provided for promoting the removal of Hg for CLC in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work developed a strategy for rapid microwave-assisted refining of eucalyptus wood in 30 min using a ternary DES (lactic acid: choline chloride: polyethylene glycol 400, 10:1 + 5%) with an excellent delignification rate of 89.73%. The test of Kamlet−Taft solvatochromic parameters of DESs shows that the acidity and polarity of the solution greatly influence the delignification rate. The polyethylene glycol 400 increased the solubility of lignin in the solvent, improved the delignification rate, and protected cellulose from degradation. The gel permeation chromatography, 2D-HSQC NMR, and 31P NMR analysis show that the lignin obtained after DES treatment had low molecular weight, small polydispersity index, and relatively rich content of β-O-4 and phenolic hydroxyl groups, which has great application potential in high-value-added products from lignin. At the same time, the main products of the simulated reaction of the lignin model compound were monophenols and Hibbert ketone, and the possible reaction mechanism of changes in lignin during treatment was given. Our study lays a foundation for applying DES in biomass refining and the high-value utilization of lignin. [Display omitted] • Sustainable lignin isolation method from eucalyptus wood using non-toxic solvent, 89.73% delignification in 30 min. • This mild method required no high pressure, long reaction times or complex equipment. • The DES lignin had properties suitable for applications with low Mw, narrow PDI, and high phenolic content. • The study comprehensively examined solvent functional group and K-T parameter effects on treatment. • The reaction mechanism was proposed based on the simulated reaction of lignin model compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Atmospheric degradation performance of passive coating on tinplate is studied by EIS. • Two models for passive coating failure have been proposed based on EIS data fitting. • The proposed failure models correspond well to findings by SIMS characterizations. • EIS measurement has a great potential in degradation evaluation of passive coatings. Understanding the atmospheric exposure induced degradation of passive coating is of substantial importance in gaining information regarding degradation behavior of the coating itself and its protection effect to underlying substrate. In this work, the structural evolution of a pre-engineered passive Cr 2 O 3 coating on tinplate under atmospheric exposure conditions has been interpretated based on EIS responses to structural evolution of the passive coating. Results indicate that the EIS data interpretation by graphical method can accurately provide parameters of coating thickness δ and CPE parameter n that are associated with structural evolution and corrosion resistance of the passive coating. Following the evolutions in δ and n , two degradation patterns be determined. The first relates an initial degradation in outer layer under high humidity condition and then the failure of inner layer. The second relates an initially moderate but then an excessive growth in the inner layer under high temperature condition, which results in a structural heterogeneity in the inner layer and thus the degradation in corrosion resistance. Such evolutions correspond well to the result by SIMS characterizations. Therefore, EIS measurement can provide an accurate and detailed evaluation on degradation behavior of a passive coating under atmospheric exposure conditions, and it is believed to have a great potential in industrial practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to develop eco-friendly composite dust suppressants to mitigate the adverse impact of coal mine dust on worker health and the environment. An environmentally friendly dust suppressant with bonding and wetting effects was prepared by combining modified pectin as a binder and a non-toxic surfactant as a wetting agent. Optimal ratios of sodium carboxylate ethoxylate sulfate (LMES), isomeric alcohol ethoxylate (XL-70), and modified pectin were determined through experiments. The modified pectin exhibited stronger wetting properties on coal powder due to its increased hydrophilicity. Wetting performance tests confirmed its excellent performance. Film-forming and scanning electron microscope tests demonstrated the dust suppressant's ability to bond with coal dust, resulting in a smooth surface and closely connected particles. Environmental tests showed its non-toxicity and degradability. Spraying dust reduction tests revealed a significant average increase of 40.51 % in dust reduction rate compared to water spraying, effectively lowering dust concentration. These findings have practical implications for the development of eco-friendly composite dust suppressants and controlling underground dust in coal mines, benefiting worker health and environmental sustainability. • A dust suppressant was developed using modified pectin and a non-toxic, non-corrosive surfactant, demonstrating its environmentally friendly nature. • The dust suppressant exhibited outstanding wetting capabilities, effectively penetrating and covering coal dust particles. • The dust suppressant effectively bonded with coal dust, resulting in a smooth surface and tightly connected particles. • The dust suppressant proved to be non-toxic to plants and readily degradable, with minimal impact on the environment. • The dust suppressant outperformed water spraying in dust reduction tests, significantly reducing coal dust concentration in underground coal mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hastelloy C-276 alloy is the preferred substrate for YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ (YBCO) coated conductors prepared by Ion-beam-assisted deposition (IBAD) route, but its surface is too rough to meet application requirements. Y(CH 3 COO) 3 ·4H 2 O precursor solution has a low flattening efficiency, and its film edges are prone to crack formations. In this paper, a model for the stress intensity factor was established to study the effect of the presence of cracks on film stress. The simulation results showed that increasing the coating thickness reduced the overall stress, but increased the stress concentration at the crack. The larger bottom layer defects also made it easier for cracks to be generated. Then, 10-m long Hastelloy C-276/Y 2 O 3 strips were prepared by colloidal-solution deposition planarization (CSDP), with an average surface roughness Rq of 0.427 and only 10 coating layers. This improved the flattening efficiency by 40 %, and a CeO 2 layer with a good biaxial texture was finally prepared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world is grappling with the ongoing crisis of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a global pandemic that continues to have a detrimental impact on public health and economies worldwide. The virus's relentless mutation has led to more transmissible, immune-evasive strains, thereby escalating the incidence of reinfection. This underscores the urgent need for highly effective and safe countermeasures against SARS-CoV-2 and its evolving variants. In the current context, nanomedicine presents an innovative and promising alternative to mitigate the impacts of this pandemic wave. It does so by harnessing the structural and functional properties at a nanoscale in a straightforward and adaptable manner. This review emphasizes the most recent progress in the development of nanovaccines, nanodecoys, and nanodisinfectants to tackle SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. Notably, the insights gained and strategies implemented in managing the ongoing pandemic may also offer invaluable guidance for the development of potent nanomedicines to combat future pandemics. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing consumption of non-renewable energy sources such as fossil fuels, human beings are facing the crisis of energy shortage. Therefore, researchers in most regions and countries in the world are actively committed to designing and developing new dielectric energy storage components with high energy storage density and high energy storage efficiency. In this work, 2-dimensional flaky Na 0.5 Bi 0.5 TiO 3 (NBT) inorganic powders were prepared by the two-step molten salt method and compounded with polymer polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). NBT/PVDF monolayer and 'sandwich' structure composites were prepared by the tape casting method, and the flaky NBT powders were arranged in parallel in the PVDF matrix. The phase and microstructure of the prepared NBT powders were analyzed by X-ray diffractometer and scanning electron microscope. The dielectric, conductivity, ferroelectric, and energy storage properties of the prepared composites were tested. The results show that the critical breakdown field strength of the prepared single-layer NBT/PVDF and 'sandwich' structure composites with a volume fraction of 0.75 vol.% NBT inorganic powder is 380 kV/mm and 540 kV/mm, respectively. The energy storage density reaches 13.78 J/cm3 and 21.57 J/cm3, which is about 1.87 and 3.01 times the volume fraction of 0 vol.%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The water-dispersed polydopamine modified porous organic polymer nanoparticle (PDA@POP) was synthesized. • The PDA@POP based nanochannel membrane was prepared via dip coating and interfacial crosslinking method. • The PDA@POPM membrane exhibits both high water permeability and dye/salt selectivity. • The PDA@POPM membrane has good stability and anti-fouling property. Nanochannel membranes derived from porous nanomaterials are crucial for driving the development of advanced desalination and water treatment membranes. However, the practical application of polymer nanochannel membranes is halted by the tedious and complicated preparation and the lack of stability in aqueous service process. In this work, we synthesized a novel type of polydopamine modified imidazolium containing porous organic polymer nanoparticles (PDA@POP), which has good water dispersibility and interface adhesion capability. The PDA@POP aqueous dispersion solution was dip coated on the polysulfone ultrafiltration supporting layer, and the nanocoating was further crosslinked with 1,3,5-Benzenetricarboxylic chloride. The appropriate surface modification of POP nanoparticles with PDA enhances the interfacial interaction and maintains effective-aperture structure, leading to stiff and continuous nanochannels facilitating the water molecules and salt ions quickly transporting through the PDA@POPM membrane. As such, both the water permeability (∼57.0 L·m−2·h−1·bar−1) and dye/salt selectivity (>24) of PDA@POPM are improved 5–10 times higher than that of conventional polymer nanofiltration membranes. Meanwhile, the membrane exhibits good stability and anti-fouling property in long-term dye desalination process. This work provides a convenient and universal strategy to design and manufacture nanochannel membranes with high separation performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A co-flow microfluidic device with relatively open shearing-space is developed. • The device largely reduces the pressure in microchannel for easy flow of liquids. • The device extends the operation window of dripping regime and avoids back flow. • Droplets are produced by easy microflow manipulation with widely tunable flow rates. • The device produces monodisperse emulsion droplets with widely tunable sizes. An open-type co-flow microfluidic technique that allows simple microflow manipulation with a broad operation range of flow rates for controllably producing uniform droplets with widely adjustable sizes is developed. The microfluidic device employs a co-flow geometry with relatively open shearing space to largely reduce the pressure drop in the microchannel to facilitate the flow of liquids. Such a device significantly extends the operation window of the dripping regime and eliminates the back flow, to benefit easy microflow manipulation with broadly adjustable flow rates for producing monodisperse droplets with widely tunable sizes. Typically, at We d = 0.0028, the operation window of the dripping regime and adjustable range of flow rates for this device are both at least ∼3 times wider than those of traditional co-flow devices with confined shearing space for droplet generation. This work provides a facile microfluidic platform with simple flow manipulation and a wide operation range for the wide-scale impact of droplet microfluidics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • One novel hierarchical porous van der Waals CuS-CN heterojunction was synthesized by a mechanochemistry-driven acetate route for enhanced Hg0 degradation. • The obtained CuS-CN heterojunction exhibited superior Hg0 accommodation capacity than CuS-CN(mix) and showcased excellent adaptability to various stationary source flue gases. • The well-developed electron transport network and a smaller energy gap enhanced the charge transfer and separation of Hg0 and g-C 3 N 4 to CuS. • CuS-CN heterojunction exhibited a stronger Hg0 oxidation and weaker HgS adsorption characteristic. • The synthesis logic is straightforward, relatively low cost, and can be upscaled for batch production and industrial application. The development of cost-effective heterojunctions with heightened affinity for mercury (Hg0) presents a promising approach for mercury abatement from stationary source emissions. In this study, one novel hierarchical porous Schottky heterojunction composed of CuS-coupled layered g-C 3 N 4 (CuS-CN) was synthesised via a mechanochemistry-driven acetate route. The prepared CuS-CN heterojunction exhibited a considerable Hg0 accommodation capacity of 33.04 mg/g at 70 °C and a breakthrough threshold of 60%, which was 40% higher than that of CuS-CN(mix) prepared by simply mixing CuS and CN without forming a heterojunction interface. Additionally, the CuS-CN heterojunction demonstrated satisfactory applicability against various simulated stationary source exhausts. Furthermore, the reason for the unparalleled and enhanced demercuration performance of the CuS-CN heterojunction was systematically deduced via experimental studies and first-principles calculations. Under-coordinated disulfides (S 2 2−) on the CuS-CN surface served as the primary active centre for the oxidation of Hg0 to Hg2+ and simultaneous bonding site for Hg2+ to form HgS. The well-developed electron transport network and narrow bandgap energy of the CuS-CN heterojunction enhanced charge separation and transfer from Hg0 and CN to CuS, accelerating Hg0 oxidation reaction, which resulted in an enhanced adsorption energy of −344.52 kJ/mol. Additionally, the CuS-CN heterojunction exhibited stronger Hg0 oxidation and weaker HgS adsorption properties, attributed to the lower bond strength of HgS on the CuS-CN surface and lower energy barrier for HgS desorption. Thus, this study highlighted the effectiveness of the CuS-CN heterojunction in Hg0 abatement and presented a promising strategy for the mechanochemical synthesis of mercury removal agents for large-scale industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The executor is an important component of a database. Typical executors that are applied in modern database systems follow either the VOLCANO model or Compiled model, each of which fits some scenarios but not all. Even the widely employed PostgreSQL (PGSQL) and CockroachDB (CRDB) have to rely on human experts to achieve the optimal execution mode. Nevertheless, the accuracy of these decisions is only 32.8% on average, even with an expert involved. Moreover, due to the exclusive use of rule-based strategies, it is not feasible to reasonably switch between two working modes when confronted with different queries. To solve this problem, we propose a QUery awARe daTabase adaptivE compilaTion decision system (Quartet), which can determine the most suitable execution mode with respect to the current workload at runtime. Quartet generates operator-cost and tree-based vectors by analysing the query execution plan (QEP) and then uses the fully connected neural network (FCNN) and tree-based convolutional neural network (TBCNN) to learn the relationship between the QEP and the optimal execution. Our evaluations show that Quartet can improve execution decision accuracy by 60% on average under TPC-H (under 3 GB) workloads. • Enhance accuracy in choosing traditional or expression compilation iterative models. • Efficiently generates ML feature vectors from query execution plans. • Support for different workloads by using multiple Machine Learning models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GO membranes cross-linked by copper ion and intercalated with tannic acid exhibit superior ionic sieving performance and aqueous stability. The fabrication strategy is novel and simple. [Display omitted] • GO membranes cross-linked by copper ion and tannic acid are successfully prepared. • The aqueous stability and permeance of membranes are improved simultaneously. • Outstanding membrane performance for K+/Mg2+ and K+/Cr3+ separation. • GO-Cu-TA 20 membrane exhibits a high K+ ion penetration rate of 0.75 mol m-2 h-1. • The membranes have great potentials in lithium extraction from salt lakes etc. Graphene oxide (GO) membranes have exhibited excellent molecular sieving properties in several areas, such as water treatment and gas separation, but unsatisfactory permeability and/or selectivity for ionic separation. Meanwhile, the instability of pure GO membranes in acidic solution has significantly impeded the ionic sieving applications. In this study, a kind of GO composite membranes (GO-Cu-TA a) with exceptional aqueous stability and superior ionic sieving properties are successfully prepared by employing a unique natural deposition strategy to introduce copper ions and tannic acid (TA). Based on the synergistic effect of the two cross-linking agents of copper ion and TA, the structural stability and ionic sieving performance of GO-Cu-TA a membranes are obviously enhanced. The resultant membrane with 20% TA loading displays excellent ionic sieving performance in a mixed solution containing K+, Mg2+ and Cr3+ three metal cations, and the selectivities of K+/Mg2+ and K+/Cr3+ are 46.43 and 185.32, respectively. Especially, the permeation rate of K+ ion reaches up to 0.75 mol m-2 h-1. Meanwhile, the ionic sieving property of such GO membranes possesses outstanding reusability and long-term stability. Such a membrane can also effectively separate mono-/multivalent metal cations from the mixed solution contained of the nine metal cations. The selectivities of monovalent/divalent metal cations (such as K+/Pb2+, K+/Ca2+, K+/Mg2+) are as high as 7.69–51.49, and those of monovalent/trivalent metal cations (such as K+/Fe3+, K+/Cr3+, K+/Al3+) are as high as 247.62–346.67. These results indicate that the GO-Cu-TA a membranes fabricated by the method of natural deposition strategy are expected to be used in the practical applications of lithium extraction from Salt Lake and wastewater purification, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combat against contamination by trace amounts of water and bacteria in aviation fuel remains a challenge, necessitating a comprehensive strategy. Here, a superamphophilic antimicrobial membrane is developed by featuring a stable zinc-coordinated polydopamine metallo-polymeric framework (PDA/Zn) on the skeleton of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) non-woven fabric. The formation of the PDA/Zn framework is streamlined through dopamine polymerization synchronized with metallo-ion coordination. This work delves into the intrinsic stability and superamphiphilic properties of the PDA/Zn framework, as well as systematically investigates its performance in fuel dehydration and carbophilus elimination. The resulting membrane exhibits a high gravity-driven flux and achieves a significant reduction in water content to below 10 ppm in aviation fuel, attributed to a demulsification and aggregation mechanism. Furthermore, our findings highlight the nearly complete antibacterial multifunctionality of the proposed membrane. It effectively prevents bacterial attachment at the liquid-solid interface and brings about bacterial eradication through the presence of Zn2+ ions and the mechanical puncturing effect of nanostructure cusps. This work not only advances applications in water dehydration and bacterial elimination but also pioneers opportunities for designing advanced functional membranes with multifaceted functionalities, including anti-fouling, self-cleaning, and antimicrobial properties, setting the stage for broader applications in membrane field. [Display omitted] • The high-flux nanocoating-engineered membrane could remove the water below 10 ppm in fuel. • The proposed membrane possesses an antibacterial multifunctionality: preventing attachment and mechanically killing. • The nanocoating consists of zinc-coordinated metallo-polymeric framework. • The nanocoating is prepared via one-step method of dopamine polymerization with metallo-ion coordination. • The nanocoating process excellent stability, superamphiphilic and antibacterial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Injecting surfactants into coal seams is an effective means to improve coal wettability. Previous studies have shown that nanofluids provided excellent drag reduction and wetting. Therefore, this manuscript investigates the synergies of AOS (Sodium alpha-olefin sulfonate)-modified SiO 2 nanofluid on the wettability of coal. Contact angle experiments were performed to examine the effects of deionized water on the wettability of coal treated with different solutions. The results demonstrated that 0.01 wt% nanofluid containing with 0.2 wt% AOS as the significantly increased the wettability. At the micro level, molecular dynamics simulations were employed to analyze the relative concentration distribution and MSD (mean square displacement) of water molecules in different systems. The simulation outcomes revealed that water molecules formed the thickest adsorption layer, and the diffusion range was more expansive, in the H 2 O/AOS-modified SiO 2 /Coal system. This was attributed to the amphiphilic structure of AOS-modified SiO 2 , which bent and folded on the coal surface, where hydrophobic sites were masked and hydrophilic sites were increased. Therefore, water molecules were attracted to the coal, the potential for collision was increased, and the wettability of the coal was enhanced. These findings provide a crucial foundation for modifying nanoparticles with surfactants and using them in coal seam water injection. • Experimental and simulation research methods were used to explain wetting effects. • Constructed the H 2 O/AOS-modified SiO 2 /Coal simulation system. • The effect of AOS-modified SiO 2 on the wettability of coal was studied. • Provide ideas for the application of nanofluids in coal seam water injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The in-depth comparative transcriptome analysis of adult zebrafish gonads. • 14,975 DEGs were identified between the ovaries and testes of adult zebrafish. • The DEGs were associated with sex-biased pathways. • The results provide important insights into the mechanisms underlying sexual dimorphism and gonadal development in zebrafish. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a widely recognized and extensively studied model organism in scientific research. The regulatory mechanism of gonadal development and differentiation of this species has aroused considerable attention. Nonetheless, the major sex-biased genes and pathways associated with gonadal development remain elusive. Therefore, to comprehend this intricate process, gonadal transcriptome sequencing was carried out to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the testes and ovaries of adult zebrafish. The preliminary assessment yielded a total of 23,529,272 and 23,521,368 clean reads from the cDNA libraries of ovaries and testes. Afterward, a comparative analysis of the transcriptome revealed 3,604 upregulated and 11,371 downregulated DEGs in the ovaries compared to the testes. Of these genes, 428 were exclusively expressed in females, while 3,516 were exclusively expressed in males. Additionally, further assessments were conducted to explore the functions associated with these DEGs in various biological processes. The data revealed their involvement in sex-biased pathways, such as progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, oocyte meiosis, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, and cardiac muscle contraction. Finally, the expression levels of 14 sex-biased DEGs (cdc20 , ccnb1 , ypel3 , chn1 , bmp15, rspo1 , tnfsf10 , egfra , acta2 , cox8a , gsdf , dmrt1 , star, and cyp17a1) associated with the enriched pathways were subjected to further validation through qRT-PCR. The data acquired from these investigations offer valuable resources to support further exploration of the mechanisms governing sexual dimorphism and gonadal development in zebrafish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel Hg0 removal adsorbent OMC-Cl was synthesized. • The presence of C-Cl functional groups exerts inhibitory effects on the formation of HgO and HgS. • DFT reveals the effect mechanism of C-Cl functional groups. • OMC-Cl exhibits excellent capacity in adsorption–desorption cycles. Wet desorption presents an environmentally sustainable approach for the disposal of deactivated elemental mercury (Hg0) removal adsorbents. However, the prevalence of insoluble Hg compounds in the adsorption products poses a significant impediment to the wet desorption process. In this work, an ordered mesoporous carbon modified with C-Cl functional groups (OMC-Cl) was synthesized via the evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) method. It has a high specific surface area (∼630 m2/g), large pore volume (∼0.64 cm3/g), and uniform pore size (∼22.0 nm). The presence of C-Cl functional groups provides a remarkable adsorption capacity to the adsorbent, exhibiting high adsorption efficiency in various adsorption atmospheres (96.8 % in pure N 2 ; 91.7 % in N 2 + H 2 S) and promoting the prevalence of soluble HgCl 2 in the adsorption product. Density functional theory analysis has elucidated that the C-Cl functional groups exerted inhibitory effects on the formation of HgO and HgS mainly by weakening the adsorption process of Hg0 on C = O and C-S. The desorption efficiencies of adsorption products in the above atmospheres in HCl solution (0.5 mol/L) achieved 95.4 % and 81.3 %, respectively. The high concentration of H+ ions serves to prevent the re-adsorption of Hg2+ by the -SH generated during the adsorption process. Furthermore, the adsorbent desorbed in HCl solution manifests substantial potential for recyclability. This study introduces a novel approach for efficient wet desorption in terms of designing active sites to modulate the adsorption products and pore structures to facilitate mass transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Multiphase microstructures are formed in annealed SmFe 2- x Si x alloys. • The electrical resistivity increases by 300 % in the Si-doped alloys. • These alloys exhibit a large magnetostriction of −1260 to −2195 ppm. The effects of Si substitution for Fe on phase constitution, electrical resistivity, and magnetostrictive properties have been investigated systematically in SmFe 2- x Si x alloys. It is found that the main phase of Sm(Fe,Si) 2 is surrounded by minor Sm-rich phases at grain boundaries in alloys with x ≤ 0.1, while a large quantity of secondary phases uniformly distributes in the main phase for the samples with x = 0.15 and 0.2. The Sm(Fe,Si) 2 Laves phase crystallizes in the trigonal R 3 ¯ m structure for all the samples at room temperature. The electrical resistivity at 300 K monotonously rises from 75 to 305 µΩ·cm with the increase of x to 0.2, mainly resulting from the existence of secondary phases. Linear magnetostriction of −1260 to −2195 ppm at 20 kOe and magnetomechanical coupling coefficient of 0.37 to 0.46 are obtained in these alloys at room temperature. The optimized combination of electrical resistivity and magnetostriction in SmFe 2- x Si x materials makes them a promising magnetostrictive material for potential applications in a wider frequency range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The highest conversion efficiency of Cu(In,Y)Se 2 solar cell with non-toxic SnS 2 buffer reaches 25.32%. • Y doping can improve the photoelectric performance of CuInSe 2 , even better than CIGSe. • Cu(In,Y)Se 2 with the broadband gap is a promising candidate for top cell of tandem cells. To explore material solutions for improving the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of copper based thin film solar cells, we systematically study the CuInSe 2 doped by Y element containing shell-unfilled 4d electrons. The crystal and electronic structures are investigated by the first-principles calculations and the device performance with Y-doped CuInSe 2 as absorber is simulated by employing SCAPS-1D software. And the matching between different buffer layers and absorber is also examined. The result shows that the substitution of Y for In can increase the band gap and make the valence bands flatting, which increases the density of states at Fermi level and effective masses of electrons and holes while decreases the carrier mobility. Two doping cases with the band gap of 1.262 and 1.465 eV are considered promising candidates for the absorber and exhibit the PCE higher than 23.6% of Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se) 2. CdS, SnS 2 , ZnMgO, and Zn(S,O) can all serve as buffer layers for Y-doped CuInSe 2 devices and the impact of their thickness on conversion efficiency is analyzed. From the perspective of achieving the same efficiency, the thickness of SnS 2 buffer layer can be reduced to 30 nm. The highest conversion efficiency of device based on Cu(In,Y)Se 2 absorber with the band gap of 1.465 eV reaches 25.32%, which demonstrates excellent performance of broadband gap photovoltaic cells using as a top cell of tandem cells. The results suggest that, by doping yttrium and adjusting thickness of buffer and absorber layers, the conversion efficiency of copper based thin film solar cells is able to further be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of radiotherapy has not yet achieved optimal results, partially due to insufficient priming and infiltration of effector immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME), which often exhibits suppressive phenotypes. In particular, the infiltration of X–C motif chemokine receptor 1 (XCR1)-expressing conventional type-1 dendritic cells (cDC1s), which are critical in priming CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, within the TME is noticeably restricted. Hence, we present a facile methodology for the efficient fabrication of a calcium phosphate hydrogel loaded with X–C motif chemokine ligand 1 (XCL1) to selectively recruit cDC1s. Manganese phosphate microparticles were also loaded into this hydrogel to reprogram the TME via cGAS-STING activation, thereby facilitating the priming of cDC1s propelled specific CD8+ T cells. They also polarize tumor-associated macrophages towards the M1 phenotype and reduce the proportion of regulatory cells, effectively reversing the immunosuppressive TME into an immune-active one. The yielded XCL1@CaMnP gel exhibits significant efficacy in enhancing the therapeutic outcomes of radiotherapy, particularly when concurrently administered with postoperative radiotherapy, resulting in an impressive 60 % complete response rate. Such XCL1@CaMnP gel, which recruits cDC1s to present tumor antigens generated in situ, holds great potential as a versatile platform for enhanced cancer treatment through modulating the immunosuppressive TME. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In clinics, therapeutic proteins are commonly used to treat retinal diseases through intraocular injection, the treatment which suffers from rather low patient compliance. Topical administration (e.g. eye-drops) of large molecule drugs remains a major challenge due to the presence of various barriers in the eye. In this study, zwitterion-grafted chitosan (CS-ZW) was developed and then self-assembled with protein therapeutics including adalimumab (ADA) or catalase (CAT) for the treatment of dry age-related macular degeneration (dAMD) via topical eyedrops. Since CS-ZW can cross the mucus layer and open the tight junctions between epithelial cells, their delivered therapeutic proteins can be shuttled across the ocular barriers to reach the diseased site in the fundus. CS-ZW/ADA eyedrops delivering ADA to bind TNF-α in the fundus achieved a similar therapeutic effect to intravitreal ADA injection in a mouse dAMD model. In addition, the therapeutic effect was further improved by combining eyedrop formulations of CS-ZW/ADA and CS-ZW/CAT, the latter of which can clear reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lesion to further assist dAMD treatment. Our work provides a simple and effective delivery vehicle that can non-invasively treat fundus diseases such as dAMD, showing potential advantages in reducing side effects associated with intraocular injection and improving patient compliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenge of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries necessitates innovative solutions to enhance their safety. In this work, a negatively thermo-responsive membrane is proposed with grafting poly (N -isopropylacrylamide) onto polydopamine-modified polypropylene (PP) membrane via the Michael addition reaction. The implementation of such smart membrane is achieved based on the upper critical solution temperature (UCST) of the PNIPAM in the electrolyte solution containing 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([EMIM][BF 4 ]), ethylene carbonate/diethyl carbonate (EC/DEC), and lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF 4). The conformational transition of the PNIPAM in the electrolyte solution is intricately influenced by the competing salting-out effect of [EMIM][BF 4 ] and salting-in effect of LiBF 4. By maintaining a constant 1.0 M LiBF 4 concentration in the electrolyte solution, the UCST of the PNIPAM that is precisely adjusted according to the 45.5 wt%-50 wt% of [EMIM][BF 4 ] in the mixed EC/DEC solution provides the gating temperature. When below the gating temperature, the PNIPAM gating polymer grafted on the PP membrane remains in a shrinkable state to let the electrolyte ions shuttle feely between the electrodes. Conversely, in the event of overheating stemming from inadvertent Li-ion battery mismanagement, the PNIPAM gating polymer becomes extensible above the gating temperatures, resulting in the closure of the separator membrane. This mechanism effectively arrests the mobility of electrolyte ions, thereby contributing to the enhanced safety and security of lithium-ion batteries. The finding in this work offers valuable insights into the design and development of smart battery membranes with enhanced safety features to advance the progress of lithium-ion battery technology. [Display omitted] • The PNIPAM exhibits a UCST behavior of in EC/DEC/[EMIM][BF 4 ]/LiBF 4 solution. • The UCST is decided by the salting-out effect of [EMIM][BF 4 ] and salting-in effect of LiBF 4. • A negatively thermo-responsive membrane in organic electrolyte is prepared by grafting PNIPAM in porous substrates. • The smart membrane intelligently regulates the ion transport according to the environmental temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper presents a comprehensive overview of technologies for GO membrane preparation. • Two mainstream ion separation mechanism of GO membrane is systematacially discussed. • Functional modifications applied to GO membranes are discussed, and their respective merits and limitations are critically evaluated. • The application of GO membrane in various membrane separation techniques is summarized. • The key issues for the imminent challenge faced by GO membranes in ion sieving and prospects for impending research are highlighted. Seawater salt ion sieving and rejection achieved through membrane separation is inevitable as the human development to obtain fresh water or pure salt. Recently, graphene oxide (GO) membrane with unique physicochemical properties and adjustable structure has unique advantages in seawater desalination. In this paper, we briefly review the development of the GO membranes for seawater salt ion sieving and rejection including the preparation process, ion sieving mechanism, and physical/chemical functional modification of the GO membranes. We compare the current research status of various membrane separation technologies in different application areas and identify potential future research directions. This article aims to offer researchers ideas for the preparation and application of GO membranes, with a focus on developing green and cost-effective manufacturing processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant defense mechanisms begin with the recognition of microbe-associated molecular patterns or pathogen-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs/PAMPs). Several carbohydrates, such as chitin, were reported to induce plant defenses, acting as elicitors. Regrettably, the structures of polysaccharide elicitors have rarely been characterized, and their recognition receptors in plants remain unknown. In the present study, PCAP-1a, an exopolysaccharide (PCAP-1a) purified from Pectobacterium actinidiae , was characterized and found to induce rapid cell death of dicotyledons, acting as a polysaccharide elicitor to induce plant immunity. A series of pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) responses were triggered, including reactive oxygen species production, phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and gene transcriptional reprogramming. Moreover, we confirmed that CERK1 is probably one of the immune coreceptors for plants to recognize PCAP-1a. Notably, PCAP-1a also promotes the infection caused by P. actinidiae. In conclusion, our study supports the potential of PCAP-1a as a toxin that plays a dual role of virulence and immune induction in pathogen-plant interactions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]