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The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is an efficient and non-polluting green energy conversion device. However, the electrocatalysts for the anodic methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) in DMFC are often precious metal catalysts, which suffer from high cost, poor stability, and easy deactivation. In this work, two isostructural metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) [M 3 (μ 3 -OH)(TATB)(Nic) 2 (H 2 O) 2 (DMA)] (M = Co, Ni) were successfully synthesized under solvothermal conditions. Both frameworks possess a unique trinuclear cluster [M 3 (μ 3 -OH)(COO) 5 ] secondary building unit (SBU) and a rare binodal (3,7)-connected network. Due to the high density of metal sites and prominent pore system within CTGU-36-Ni, it can serve as an effective molecular electrocatalyst for MOR, while CTGU-36-Co is an inert material. Further experimental results showed that the introduction of conductive substances could lead to a significant increase in the MOR area activity of CTGU-36-Ni. This work not only provides a non-noble metal molecular MOR electrocatalyst but also opens a new vision for the design and application of crystalline materials in various energy conversion processes. Two isostructural metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with atypical trinuclear cluster have been constructed successfully, which exhibit good electrocatalytic properties toward methanol oxidation reaction as molecular electrocatalysts or after the addition of conductive carbon mediums. [Display omitted] • Two isostructural MOFs with atypical trinuclear cluster have been constructed. • CTGU-36-Ni and its composites exhibit remarkable electrocatalytic activity for MOR. • This work provides a molecular MOR catalyst and a new vision for the application of MOFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Hemin (ferroprotoporphyrin IX), a compound derivative of heme, has been shown to exert numerous beneficial physiological functions in the resistance of plant to various abiotic stresses. This work investigated the effects of hemin on ameliorating Cd toxicity in Chinese cabbage (Brassica chinensis L.). Our results showed that leaf chlorosis, growth inhibition, root morphology and photosynthetic activity were significantly improved by the addition of hemin in Cd-stressed plants. Meanwhile, Cd-induced oxidative damage was also alleviated by hemin, which was supported by the decreased level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in roots of the seedlings treated with hemin. In the same time, the activities of antioxidative enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT), as well as the concentrations of ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH) were elevated by hemin, which contributed to the scavenging of Cd-elicited H 2 O 2 and O 2 •－ within the roots of Chinese cabbage seedlings. Furthermore, compared with Cd stressed plants, Cd concentrations in both shoots and roots were markedly decreased by exogenous hemin. Hence, it can be speculated that hemin-mediated tolerance to Cd stress may be associated with the inhibition of Cd uptake in Chinese cabbage. This hypothesis was supported by the down-regulated expressions of transporter genes, including BcIRT1 , BcIRT2 , BcNramp1 and BcZIP2 caused by hemin addition in Chinese cabbage seedlings under Cd treatment. Taken together, these results suggested that hemin alleviated Cd toxicity probably through increasing antioxidative capacities and inhibiting Cd uptake of Chinese cabbage. Highlights • Hemin improved growth and photosynthetic activity in the Cd-stressed Chinese cabbage seedlings. • Hemin addition enhanced antioxidative capacity in Chinese cabbage seedlings under Cd stress. • Hemin addition reduced Cd uptake in Chinese cabbage seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract HPP (heavy metal associated plant protein) and HIPP (heavy metal associated isoprenylated plant protein) are a group of metal-binding metallochaperones playing crucial roles in metal homeostasis and detoxification. Up to now, only few of them have been functionally identified in plants. Here, we identified 54 HPP and HIPP genes in rice genome. Analysis of the transcriptome datasets of the rice genome exposed to cadmium (Cd) revealed 17 HPP/HIPP genes differentially expressed, with 11 being upregulated (>2 fold change, p < 0.05). Comprehensive analysis of transcripts by qRT-PCR showed that both types of genes displayed diverse expression pattern in rice under excess manganese (Mn), copper (Cu) and Cd stress. Multiple genomic analyses of HPPs/HIPPs including phylogenesis, conserved domains and motifs, genomic arrangement and genomic and tandem duplication were performed. To identify the role of the genes, OsHIPP16 , OsHIPP34 and OsHIPP60 were randomly selected to express in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) mutants pmrl , cup2 , ycf1 and zrc1 , exhibiting sensitivity to Mn, Cu, Cd and Zn toxicity, respectively. Complementation test showed that the transformed cells accumulated more metals in the cells, but their growth status was improved. To confirm the functional role, two mutant oshipp42 lines defective in OsHIPP42 expression were identified under metal stress. Under normal condition, no difference of growth between the oshipp42 mutant and wild-type plants was observed. Upon excess Cu, Zn, Cd and Mn, the oshipp42 lines grew weaker than the wild-type. Our work provided a novel source of heavy metal-binding genes in rice that can be potentially used to develop engineered plants for phytoremediation in heavy metal-contaminated soils. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • We identified 54 HPP/HIPP genes in rice genome with 11 upregulated under Cd stress. • Diverse HPP/HIPP expression pattern in rice under excess metal stress was observed. • Expression of HIPPs in yeast mutants grew better and accumulated more metals than WT. • The oshipp42 lines showed a weaker growth than WT under metal stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phototherapy is an emerging non-pharmacological treatment for depression, circadian rhythm disruptions, and neurodegeneration, as well as pain conditions including migraine and fibromyalgia. However, the mechanism of phototherapy-induced antinociception is not well understood. Here, using fiber photometry recordings of population-level neural activity combined with chemogenetics, we found that phototherapy elicits antinociception via regulation of the ventral lateral geniculate body (vLGN) located in the visual system. Specifically, both green and red lights caused an increase of c-fos in vLGN, with red light increased more. In vLGN, green light causes a large increase in glutamatergic neurons, whereas red light causes a large increase in GABAergic neurons. Green light preconditioning increases the sensitivity of glutamatergic neurons to noxious stimuli in vLGN of PSL mice. Green light produces antinociception by activating glutamatergic neurons in vLGN, and red light promotes nociception by activating GABAergic neurons in vLGN. Together, these results demonstrate that different colors of light exert different pain modulation effects by regulating glutamatergic and GABAergic subpopulations in the vLGN. This may provide potential new therapeutic strategies and new therapeutic targets for the precise clinical treatment of neuropathic pain. • Green light activates glutamatergic neurons in vLGN. • Red light activates GABAergic neurons in vLGN. • Activation of glutaminergic neurons in vLGN mimics the analgesic effects of green light. • Glutamatergic neurons in vLGN may be a new therapeutic target of neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, sodium caprylate has been investigated to direct the crystal growth of 3D Ag-MOF, [Ag 2 (ddcba)(4,4′-bipy) 2 ] ( 1 ), constructing from 3,5-(di(2′,5′-dicarboxylphenyl)benozoic acid and 4,4′-bipy. The single crystal diffraction analyses shows that complex 1 possess 3D neutral framework with a three-connected ThSi 2 (10 3 -b) topology. Compound 1 exhibits predominant catalytic activity towards the degradation of o- Nitrophenol (ONP), m- Nitrophenol (MNP) and p- Nitrophenol (PNP) in aqueous solution. The kinetics of such catalytic degradation reactions was also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Water-soluble and highly stable dispersions of copper nanoparticles were obtained using a biomolecule-assisted synthetic method. Dopamine was utilized as both reducing and capping agent in aqueous medium. The successful formation of DA-stabilized copper particles was demonstrated by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Zeta potential measurement, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The mechanism of dopamine on the effective reduction and excellent stability of copper nanoparticles was also discussed. This facile biomolecule-assisted technique may provide a useful tool to synthesize other nanoparticles that have potential application in biotechnology. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] A critical challenge in the enzymatic conversion of acylglycerols is the limited exposure of the enzyme dissolved in the aqueous solution to the hydrophobic substrate in the oil phase. Positioning the enzyme in a microenvironment with balanced hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity in Pickering emulsion will facilitate the acylglycerol-catalyzing reactions at the interface between the oil and liquid phases. In this work, to overcome the challenge of biphasic catalysis, we report a method to immobilize enzymes in polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogel microparticles (HMPs) at the interface between the oil and water phases in Pickering emulsion to promote the enzymatic conversion of acylglycerols. 3 wt% of HMPs can stabilize the oil-in-water Pickering emulsion for at least 14 days and increase the viscosity of emulsions. Lipase-HMP conjugates showed significantly higher hydrolytic activity in Pickering emulsion; HMP-immobilized lipase SMG1 showed an activity about three times that of free lipase SMG1. Co-immobilization of a lipase and a fatty acid photodecarboxylase from Chlorella variabilis (CvFAP) in Pickering emulsion enables light-driven cascade conversion of triacylglycerols to hydrocarbons, transforming waste oil to renewable biofuels in a green and sustainable approach. HMPs stabilize the Pickering emulsion and promote interfacial biocatalysis in converting acylglycerols to renewable biofuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The screening and identification of hyperaccumulators is the key to the phytoremediation of soils contaminated by heavy metal (HM). Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) can improve plant growth and tolerance to HM; therefore, AMF-assisted phytoextraction has been regarded as a potential technique for the remediation of HM-polluted soils. A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted to determine whether Sphagneticola calendulacea is a Cd-hyperaccumulator and to investigate the effect of the AMF- Funneliformis mosseae (FM) on plant growth and on the accumulation, subcellular distribution and chemical form of Cd in S. calendulacea grown in soils supplemented with different Cd levels. At 25, 50 and 100 mg Cd kg−1 level, S. calendulacea showed high Cd tolerance, the translocation factor and the bioconcentration factor exceeded 1, and accumulation of more than 100 mg Cd kg−1 was observed in the aboveground parts of the plant, meeting the requirements for a Cd-hyperaccumulator. Moreover, FM colonization significantly increased both biomasses and Cd concentration in S. calendulacea. After FM inoculation, the Cd concentrations and proportions increased in the cell walls, but exhibited no significant change in the organelles of the shoots. Meanwhile, FM symbiosis contributed to the conversion of Cd from highly toxic chemical forms (extracted by 80% ethanol and deionized water) to less toxic chemical forms (extracted by 1 M NaCl, 2% acetic acid, 0.6 M HCl) of Cd in the shoots. Overall, S. calendulacea is a typical Cd-hyperaccumulator, and FM symbiosis relieved the phytotoxicity of Cd and promoted plant growth and Cd accumulation, and thus greatly increasing the efficiency of phytoextraction for Cd-polluted soil. Our study provides a theoretical basis and application guidance for the remediation of Cd-contaminated soil by the symbiont of S. calendulacea with FM. Image 1 • Sphagneticola calendulacea is a typical Cd-hyperaccumulator. • FM symbiosis increased the biomass and Cd concentrations in S. calendulacea. • FM inoculation enhanced Cd conversion to less toxic chemical forms in the shoots. • FM symbiosis enhanced Cd transport to cell walls in the shoots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, there is a noticeable increasing trend in farmland abandonment, which directly affects farmers' livelihood and food security. The abandonment status, its determinants and impact vary by spatial and socioeconomic context. In order to study this important issue, we selected three different villages representing three ecological regions (Mountain, Hill, and Tarai) in the Koshi River Basin (KRB), and applied two methods: the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and a social survey. The UAV captured 3711 images and we carried out 162 households' survey with structured questionnaires. Pix4Dmapper and ArcGIS tools were used for combining and processing the images. On-screen digitalization and binary logistic regression (BLR) were applied to examine the status and determinants of farmland abandonment. The results show a higher proportion of farmland abandonment in the villages located in the Hill and Mountain regions compared to those in the Tarai region. Almost 10.3% area of total land and 22.3% area of total farmland was abandoned in the Hill village. The Tarai village had the least farm abandonment (3.7%). Farmers perceived that climate change (less precipitation, increasing temperatures, and drought), shifting occupations, crops damaged by wildlife, migration, lack of irrigation, and a labor shortage are the leading determinants of farmland abandonment. These factors varied slightly across the different ecological regions. The BLR model was a good fit with Nagelkerke's R 2 = 0.776, with a correct model prediction (87.7%) and p = 0.032. The results from the regression model suggest that an increase in temperature (p = 0.000), decrease in rainfall (p = 0.001), lack of machinery used for farm-work (p = 0.000), lack of irrigation (p = 0.000), and reduction of labor-force (p = 0.000) are the main contributing determinants of farmland abandonment. This synergy of high-resolution remote sensing and farmers' perception-based findings facilitates the improvement of land-use governmental policies to improve farmers' quality of life and build sustainable farmland management. Image 1 • Status and determinants of farmland abandonment vary by regions in the Koshi basin. • Biophysical attributes and farm characteristics were the important determinants. • Farmers' livelihood in Mountain and Hill regions is highly affected by this issue. • Improving policies is key to reduce farm abandonment and ensure food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) can permit the utilization of noble-metal-free electrocatalysts, which certainly reduces the cost and accelerates their practical implementation. With the exploration of efficient and economical methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) catalysts, Ni-based nanostructures have been recognized as the most promising MOR catalysts in alkaline media. Herein, we construct a novel heterojunction MOR electrocatalyst composed of Ni-based metal-organic framework (Ni-MOF) and NiFe-based layered double hydroxides (LDHs) through a coordination-induced self-assembly strategy. Owing to the synergic effect between Ni and Fe sites, coupled with the effect of hetero-interface, the resultant Ni-MOF/NiFe-LDH composite exhibits remarkable MOR activity in 0.1 M KOH electrolyte with the oxidation current density (32.66 mA cm−2) is 2.65 and 2.44 times higher than that of the primitive NiFe-LDH and Ni-MOF. The excellent stability of the Ni-MOF/NiFe-LDH electrocatalyst has also been confirmed by long-term chronoamperometry (CA) analysis. Our work paves a facile controllable way for fabricating MOF/LDH heterostructure targets on MOR and underlines its potential to boost energy conversion efficiency through the manipulation of synergic components. A novel Ni-MOF/NiFe-LDH heterojunction MOR electrocatalyst has been successfully constructed through a coordination-induced self-assembly strategy, which exhibits a collaborative enhancement in electrocatalytic properties toward alkaline MOR. [Display omitted] • A heterojunction composite has been constructed through a coordination-induced self-assembly strategy. • Ni-MOF/NiFe-LDH exhibits remarkable electrocatalytic activity toward alkaline MOR. • This work underlines the potential of MOF/LDH heterostructure in enhancing energy conversion efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a lake basin, there is a mismatch between river and lake water quality targets and a method for setting specific water quality targets for these rivers is urgently needed. Using Dianchi Lake as an example, we proposed a lake basin water quality management system based on the river-lake water quality response relationship, coupled with a Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) basin hydrological model and Environmental Fluid Dynamics Code (EFDC) lake water quality hydrodynamic model. River water quality control requirements based on the river-lake water quality response were proposed, under the premise that the Dianchi Lake water quality reaches the required standard. Then, water quality control targets for rivers were determined, and corrected for influencing factors, such as current river water quality and composition of flow. Our systematic approach efficiently identified key lake basin pollution sources, and accurately located key points for water quality improvement and pollution control. Combined with a correction for clean water source and current water quality of each river, the proposed water quality targets were practical and operable. Meanwhile, the EFDC model was used to verify the entire process to ensure that river water quality targets could be set to achieve lake water quality targets. To ensure that Dianchi Lake water quality can reach Class IV standard, the Chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration would need to be maintained under 30 mg/L,Waihai total nitrogen (TN) below 7 mg/L, total phosphorus (TP) below 0.2 mg/L, and ammonia nitrogen (NH 3 –N) below 2 mg/L. • There is a mismatch between river and lake water quality targets. • COD and TP concentration of the inflow rivers needs to be strictly controlled. • The required concentration of TN and NH 3 –N in the rivers could be slightly lowered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular mechanisms of the differences among the Cd tolerance and accumulation of different pak choi cultivars are essential to further breed Cd-safe genotypes pak choi. In our research, via morphological comparison, qRT-PCR and yeast function complementary approaches, we explored the differences of Cd tolerance and capacity for Cd uptake in nine various pak choi varieties. Results showed that higher expressions of BcZIPs involved in Cd uptake in 'Kang Re605' may lead to its higher capacity for Cd accumulation. The lowest expressions of transporter gene in 'Wu Yueman' were consistent with its fewest ability to uptake Cd. Beyond that, the difference of resistance was very great among varieties. Meanwhile, the expressions of the BcGSTUs were differentially induced by Cd exposure in different pak choi varieties, and 'Kang Re605' performed the highest BcGSTUs expression overall. To verify the role of GSTUs played in Cd resistance of pak choi, four BcGSTUs , BcGSTU4 , BcGSTU11 , BcGSTU12 and BcGSTU22 in a high-Cd accumulation and tolerance variety 'Kang Re605' were cloned, quantitated and transferred to Cd-sensitive yeast mutant strain. And finally found that BcGSTU11 increased the Cd tolerance of yeast, which may associate with a high Cd resistance of 'Kang Re605'. Simultaneously, less BcGSTUs abundance in 'Shang Haiqing' may result in its weak tolerance to Cd. These findings will help us to comprehend the roles of BcZIPs and BcGSTUs in Cd absorption and detoxification as well as promote our understanding of the Cd-resistant and Cd-accumulated mechanisms in pak choi. • The differences of Cd tolerance and capacity for Cd uptake in nine pak choi varieties were obtained. • 'WYM' with low-Cd-accumulated character was screened out to be cultivated as a Cd-safe pak choi variety in Cd contaminated soil. • The first detoxification function validation of BcGSTUs were performed by a yeast system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO as an eco-friendly material shows bright luminescence under UV illumination when it is tailored into nanoscale size, which makes it a promising luminescent nanomaterial. However, the poor stability of ZnO hinders its applications drastically. In this work, multi-ZnO-cores@uni-BaSO 4 -shell (mZnO@uBaSO 4 ) nanocomposite has been prepared through a non-equilibrium sorption process employing ZnO QDs as the “seeds” and BaSO 4 as the “valve”. The mZnO@uBaSO 4 nanocomposite shows improved photo-, thermal- and ambient-stability compare with bare ZnO QDs. The fluorescence efficiency of the mZnO@uBaSO 4 nanocomposite decreases little even after 60 h of UV irradiation compare with ZnO QDs. The mZnO@uBaSO 4 nanocomposite shows bright luminescence with little decrease even the ambient temperature up to 160 °C and the nanocomposite shows strong resistance to harsh environment. By coating the mZnO@uBaSO 4 nanocomposite and commercial phosphors onto UV-chip, light-emitting diode (LED) with correlated color temperature, Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage coordinate, color rendering index and luminous efficiency of 6109 K, (0.32, 0.33), 85 and 47.33 lm/W have been realized, and this will make a great step towards eco-friendly UV-pumped LEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are considered one of the most promising energy conversion devices due to their environmentally friendly and high-energy density features. However, the sluggish anode kinetics of the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) acts as a bottleneck in the DMFCs system. Herein, a series of MOF-based heterogeneous electrocatalysts (NiWO 4 /MOF-74- x, Ni 3 V 2 O 8 /MOF-74- x) is constructed via a coordination-driven self-assembly strategy to enhance the catalytic property of the MOR. The heterogeneous interface between MOF-74 and Ni compounds is built by the Ni–O coordination interaction, which provides fast charge transfer and mass diffusion efficiency. Therefore, the optimal catalyst NiWO 4 /MOF-74 (3) exhibits excellent MOR activity and operation durability with a peak current density of 28.58 ​mA·cm-2. This work is expected to inspire the design of more efficient MOF-based heterogeneous electrocatalysts for MOR and other energy conversion applications. A series of MOF-based heterogeneous electrocatalysts have been constructed successfully via a coordination-driven self-assembly strategy, which exhibits excellent MOR activity and operational durability in the alkaline medium. [Display omitted] • A series of MOF-based heterogeneous electrocatalysts have been constructed via a coordination-driven self-assembly strategy. • NiWO 4 /MOF-74 (3) composite exhibits good activity and operation durability for MOR. • This work provides a new vision for the design of heterogeneous MOR electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • EH 6 surfactant molecules can rapidly migrate to newly formed interfaces and adsorb intensively to achieve surface wettability reversal and regulate droplet impact behavior on hydrophobic leaves. • EH 6 surfactant adsorbs intensively at the contact line and achieves rapid wetting on the hydrophobic surface driven by Marangoni forces. • EH 6 as a tank-mix adjuvant significantly improves the physicochemical properties of spray dilutions and enhances the dose delivery efficiency to achieve efficient delivery of pesticides. • EH 6 as a tank-mix adjuvant increases pesticide deposition and adhesion, thereby reducing pesticide use and environmental risk. Droplet rebound from hydrophobic leaves is a major factor influencing pesticide utilization. The use of a surfactant is a major strategy to reduce droplet rebound, promoting pesticide deposition on hydrophobic agricultural plant leaves. However, most surfactants known to regulate droplet rebound are either anionic or cationic. In this study, ethoxylated propoxylated 2-ethyl-1-haxanol (EH 6) was identified as a nonionic surfactant that inhibits droplet rebound while promoting the complete spreading of the droplet on hydrophobic leaves. Compared with the widely reported nonionic surfactant Tween 20, EH 6 performs better at concentrations above 0.3%. This phenomenon can be attributed to the rapid migration of EH 6 from the bulk to the newly generated interface, significantly reducing the surface tension. We introduce a simple and effective strategy that can be used to enhance droplet deposition on hydrophobic plant surfaces, which may offer future economic and environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our recent multi-omics studies have revealed rich sources of novel bioactive proteins and polypeptides from marine organisms including cnidarians. In the present study, we initially conducted a transcriptomic analysis to review the composition profile of polypeptides from Zoanthus sociatus. Then, a newly discovered NPY-like polypeptide-ZoaNPY was selected for further in silico structural, binding and virtually pharmacological studies. To evaluate the pro-angiogenic effects of ZoaNPY, we employed an in vitro HUVECs model and an in vivo zebrafish model. Our results indicate that ZoaNPY, at 1–100 pmol, enhances cell survival, migration and tube formation in the endothelial cells. Besides, treatment with ZoaNPY could restore a chemically-induced vascular insufficiency in zebrafish embryos. Western blot results demonstrated the application of ZoaNPY could increase the phosphorylation of proteins related to angiogenesis signaling including PKC, PLC, FAK, Src, Akt, mTOR, MEK, and ERK1/2. Furthermore, through molecular docking and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) verification, ZoaNPY was shown to directly and physically interact with NPY Y2 receptor. In view of this, all evidence showed that the pro-angiogenic effects of ZoaNPY involve the activation of NPY Y2 receptor, thereby activating the Akt/mTOR, PLC/PKC, ERK/MEK and Src- FAK-dependent signaling pathways. Furthermore, in an excision wound model, the treatment with ZoaNPY was shown to accelerate the wound healing process in mice. Our findings provide new insights into the discovery and development of novel pro-angiogenic drugs derived from NPY-like polypeptides in the future. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-BDC/Ti 3 C 2 T x hybrid nanosheets with rich bridging bonds and tight contact interface were in-situ fabricated via a simple two-step approach including solvothermal reaction and low-temperature annealing, which ensure the high overall conductivity and reactivity as well as stability, and hence bring improved electrochemical performance to HSC. [Display omitted] The design and synthesis of high-performance metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)-based electrodes are important for hybrid supercapacitors (HSC). Herein, enhanced interfacial interaction in Co-BDC/Ti 3 C 2 T x (denoted as CoTC) hybrid nanosheets is achieved through thermal treatment, giving remarkably improved capacity performance compared with CoTC. The low temperature annealing treatment enables modulation of the bridging bonds content of CoTC and thus regulates the interfacial coupling effect between Co-BDC and Ti 3 C 2 T x. Moreover, both the detailed XPS and XANES analysis reveal that the strong interfacial interactions between the two components promote a partial electron transfer from Ti 3 C 2 T x to Co-BDC through the Ti-O-Co interfacial bonds. Consequently, it endows the Co-BDC with enhanced conductivity as well as the higher valence of Ti species in Ti 3 C 2 T x , hence contributes a remarkable enhanced specific capacity. This work will provide a pathway to design advanced MOF/MXene materials for HSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with transition hydroxides has the potential to enhance the inadequate electronic conductivity and address the slow diffusion of MOF materials in electrochemical applications. Herein, we synthesized a 2D Cu-MOF and successfully prepared a Cu-MOF@Co(OH) 2 heterostructure using a one-step hydrothermal method on a Co(OH) 2 /NF (nickel foam) substrate. The hybrid Cu-MOF@Co(OH) 2 material exhibits high electrochemical reactivity, resulting in enhanced pseudocapacitor performance, with a specific capacitance of 2039.8 mF cm−2 at a current density of 1.0 mA cm−2. In addition, an asymmetric two-electrode cell was constructed using Cu-MOF@Co(OH) 2 /NF and activated carbon (AC)/NF, exhibiting a specific capacitance of 444.5 mF cm−2 at a current density of 1.0 mA cm−2, and demonstrating decent cycling durability with 90.1 % retention after 2000 cycles. One 2D Cu-MOF with MOF-110 analogs has been obtained and crystallographically characterized. The Cu-MOF@Co(OH) 2 heterostructure acted as asymmetric supercapacitor electrode material, which delivered enhance pseudocapacitor performance. Besides, the asymmetric two-electrode Cu-MOF@Co(OH) 2 //AC devices possessed the good specific capacitance and cycling durability. [Display omitted] • One 2D Cu-MOF with MOF-110 analogs has been synthesized and crystallographically characterized. • The Cu-MOF@Co(OH) 2 hybrid material has been fabricated, characterized and showed enhanced pseudocapacitor performance. • The asymmetric two-electrode Cu-MOF@Co(OH) 2 //AC devices possessed the good specific capacitance and cycling durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DMF hydrolysis is not scaring, but further condensation of HDO over strong acid sites is the intrinsic cause for loss in PX selectivity and carbon balance. [Display omitted] • Acid strength exhibits a significant influence on PX selectivity. • DMF hydrolysis to HDO is not the intrinsic cause for decrease in PX selectivity. • Condensation of HDO over strong acid sites results in loss of PX selectivity. • The process starting with HDO and ethylene for PX production is investigated. • Reducing strong acid site amount helps to improve PX selectivity. Although a precise understanding of acid strength would be essential to elucidate the reaction mechanism and boost the catalytic activity, it is still severely deficient during p -xylene (PX) production from 2,5-dimethylfuran (DMF). Herein, a series of metal phosphate catalysts featuring varied acid strength are prepared and afford an ideal platform. A combination study including kinetic analysis, converting pathway investigation and isotopic labelling experiments reveal the reversible reaction between DMF and 2,5-hexanedione (HDO) and the vital role of strong acid sites during the further conversion of HDO. DMF hydrolysis to HDO is not the intrinsic cause for decrease in PX selectivity, but further condensation of HDO over the strong acid sites is to blame. It destroys the equilibrium state of the reversible reaction and leads to loss in PX selectivity and carbon balance. Besides, the process starting with HDO and ethylene for PX production and strategies to improve PX selectivity have also been proposed. This work provides a much deeper insight into the crucial role of acid strength, which would be constructive for rational design of new catalysts and the corresponding mechanistic understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relapse of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is associated with a failure of the host immune system to control the invading Mycobacterium tuberculosis . Severe immunodeficiency or immune disorders may be the main reason for TB recurrence. This study aimed to quantify serum inflammatory cytokine and soluble adhesion molecule levels in Re-treated smear-positive PTB patients before and after re-anti-TB drug therapy. Serum samples were collected from 30 healthy controls and 215 Treated active PTB patients at baseline and 2, 4, and 6 months post-re-treatment. Levels of 18 serum cytokines and soluble adhesion molecules were measured by a high-throughput Cytometric Bead Array. At baseline, IL-1, IL-2, IL-12P70, and soluble CD62E levels were significantly higher in PTB patients than those in the healthy controls (p < 0.05); IL-4, IL-5, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17, IL-21, soluble CD54, MIG, and TGF-β levels in PTB patients were significantly lower than those in the healthy controls (p < 0.05), of which TGF-β, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, soluble CD54, and MIG were most notably (p < 0.0005). After re-treatment, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-7, and soluble CD54 levels and IL-2/IL-10 and IFN-γ/IL-10 ratios showed an upward trend during the re-treatment period. They were more sensitive than other cytokines and adhesion molecules and could be effective as serum indicators for re-treatment response. The immune response was imbalance in treated smear-positive PTB patients: Th1 response was elevated, but Th2 and Th17 responses were reduced. Systematic and comprehensive understanding of the cytokine and soluble adhesion molecule profiles provides a theoretical basis for immuno-diagnosis, immunotherapy, and immuno-monitoring of Re-treated PTB patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic macrophytes and algae are the most important sources of autochthonous dissolved organic matter (DOM), and their transformation and reuse significantly affect aquatic ecosystem health. In this study, Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS) was used to identify the molecular features between submerged macrophyte-derived DOM (SMDOM) and algae-derived DOM (ADOM). The photochemical heterogeneity between SMDOM and ADOM by UV 254 -irradiation and their molecular mechanism were also discussed. The results showed that the molecular abundance of SMDOM was dominated by lignin/CRAM-like structures, tannins, and concentrated aromatic structures (sum of 91.79%), while that of ADOM was dominated by lipids, proteins, and unsaturated hydrocarbons (sum of 60.30%). UV 254 -radiation resulted in a net reduction of tyrosine-like, tryptophan-like and terrestrial humic-like, and conversely a net production of marine humic-like. The light decay rate constants obtained by the multiple exponential function model fitting revealed that both tyrosine-like and tryptophan-like components of SMDOM could be rapidly and directly photodegraded, while the photodegradation of tryptophan-like in ADOM depended on the production of photosensitizers. The photo-refractory fractions of both SMDOM and ADOM were as follows: humic-like > tyrosine-like > tryptophan-like. Our results provide new insights into the fate of autochthonous DOM in aquatic ecosystems where "grass-algae" coexist or evolve. • Significant differences at the molecular level between SMDOM and ADOM. • SMDOM is more photolabile than ADOM. • The rapid photodegradation of SMDOM is attributed to abundant tannins. • Photodegradation of tryptophan-like in ADOM depends on photosensitizer production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dredged sediments derived from eutrophicated lakes poses hardness of sludge disposal and ecological risks. The proper pretreatment and utilization of dredged sediments presented a challenge. In this study, Dianchi Lake sediments were dredged, thermally treated and utilized as particle capping material in batch experiments. The effects of calcination on phosphorus speciation and sediment-water interface environment as well as P immobility mechanism were predominantly explored. The microstructures and chemical compositions of calcined sediments were investigated, indicating the porosity and mineralization components were greatly enhanced. The fractional analysis of phosphorus revealed that the calcination process reduced the percentage of unsteady phosphorus, transforming into stable inert phosphorus fractions (Al–P, Ca–P and Res-P), respectively, thereby minimized its mobility and eutrophication risk. Interestingly, calcination temperatures of 700 °C and 800 °C resulted in smaller releasing potentials and equilibrium phosphorus concentrations, despite having lower adsorption capacities than 550 °C. Furthermore, the results of redox potential monitoring showed that the thermally treated Dianchi Lake sediments could enhance the redox potential and dissolved oxygen in the surface sediment, indicating the amelioration of interfacial environment. The practical monitoring experiments confirmed the capping depressed the DTP to 0.031 mg L−1. The investigation of this study provided explicit evidence of Ca coupled P and aerobic Fe bound P strengthened the immobilization effects, and the development of sediment calcination demonstrates a promising strategy for alleviating the burden of endogenous pollution and improving aerobic environment, which are of great significance for lake ecological remediation. [Display omitted] • The composition and morphology of thermally treated sediments were characterized. • Phosphorus releasing potential was reduced at higher calcination temperatures. • The mobile phosphorus contents were dramatically decreased by thermal treatment. • SRP in overlying water can be effectively reduced by the increased Ca–P complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Three unique ent -clerodane diterpenoid dimers were isolated from Callicarpa arborea. • The absolute configuration of 1 was deduced by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. • The absolute configuration of 2 and 3 was confirmed by NMR calculations with DP4 + analysis and ECD calculations. • The compound 2 and 3 showed potent cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and HCT-116 cell lines. Callicarpnoids A–C (1 – 3), three new ent -clerodane diterpenoid dimers formed via a [4 + 2] hetero Diels-Alder cycloaddition, appeared as a third example of this type of dimers, were isolated from the stems of Callicarpa arborea Roxb.. Their structures were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analysis, and the absolute configurations were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations, as well as DP4 + analysis. Cytotoxicity test in two cell lines indicated that compounds 2 and 3 had significant cytotoxic effect against breast cancer cell (MCF-7) and colorectal cancer cell (HCT-116) with IC 50 ranging from 5.2 to 7.2 μ M, comparable to those of the positive control. Furthermore, the western blot analysis revealed that the protein expression levels of Bax were increased following compounds 2 and 3 treatment, whereas the expression levels of caspase 8, caspase 3, caspase 9 and Bcl 2 were decreased in a dose-dependent manner, indicating that compounds 2 and 3 may induce apoptosis via both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways in MCF-7 and HCT-116 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA), as a non-invasive approach, has been introduced in a wide range of applications, including cancer diagnosis/ monitoring, prenatal testing, and transplantation monitoring. Yet, studies of cfDNA fragmentomics in physiological conditions are lacking. In this study, we aim to explore the correlation of fragmentation patterns of cfDNA with blood biochemical and hematological parameters in healthy individuals. We addressed the impact of physiological variables and abnormal blood biochemical and hematological parameters on cfDNA fragment size distribution. We also figured and validated that hematological inflammation markers, including leukocyte, lymphocyte, neutrophil, and platelet distribution width as well as aspartate transaminase levels were significantly correlated with the genome-wide cfDNA fragmentation pattern. Our findings suggest that cfDNA fragmentation profiles were associated with physiological parameters related to cardiovascular risk factors, inflammatory response and hepatocyte injury, which may provide insights for further research on the potential role of cfDNA fragmentation in diagnosis and monitor of several disease. • Blood triglyceride and glucose level correlated with short cfDNA fragment ratio. • cfDNA fragmentation correlated with inflammation-related hematological parameters. • AST was significantly correlated with cfDNA fragmentation patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new coordination polymers, namely, {[Ni(H 2 L)(bix)(H 2 O) 2 ]·2h 2 O} n (1), {[Ni(HL)(Hdpa)(H 2 O) 2 ]·H 2 O} n (2), {[Ni(L) 0.5 (bpp)(H 2 O)]·H 2 O} n (3) (H 4 L=terphenyl-2,2′,4,4′-tetracarboxylic acid; bix=1,4-bis(imidazol-1-ylmethyl)benzene; dpa =4,4′-dipyridylamine; bpp=1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane), based on rigid H 4 L ligand and different N-donor co-ligands, have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. Compound 1 features a 3D 4-connected 6 6 -dia- type framework with H 4 L ligand adopts a μ 2 -bridging mode with two symmetry-related carboxylate groups in μ 1 - η 1 : η 0 monodentate mode. Compound 2 displays a 1D [Ni(HL)(Hdpa)] n ribbon chains motif, in which the H 4 L ligand adopts a μ 2 -bridging mode with two carboxylate groups in μ 1 - η 1 : η 1 and μ 1 - η 1 : η 0 monodentate modes, while 3 possesses a (4,4)-connected 3D frameworks with bbf topology, with H 4 L ligand displays a μ 4 -bridging coordination mode. The H 4 L ligand displays not only different deprotonated forms but also diverse coordination modes and conformations. The structural diversities among 1 – 3 have been carefully discussed, and the roles of N-donor co-ligands in the self-assembly of coordination polymers have been well documented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of porous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as catalyst support has attracted intensive attentions in heterogeneous catalysis. However, the study of structure-activity relationship in this confined catalysis system is still scarce. Herein, three isostructural Co(II)-MOFs {Co 2 L(bpy)} n (CTGU-11), {Co 2 L(bpe)} n (CTGU-12) and {Co 2 L(bib)} n (CTGU-13) were synthesized by using 4,4′,4″,4‴-(1,3,6,8-Pyrenetetrayl)tetrabenzoic acid (H 4 L) as an organic ligand, and introducing three N-donor ligands (bpy ​= ​4,4′-dipyridyl, bpe ​= ​1,2-di(4-pyridyl)ethylene, bib ​= ​1,4-bis(1-imidazoly)benzene) with different length. Among these Co(II)-MOFs, each L4− anion bridges four typical paddle wheel secondary building units (SBUs) to form a two dimensional (2D) sheet, which further expanded to the three-fold interpenetrated structure with the aid of different pillared ligands. Inspired by the eligible structure/surface feature of these frameworks, a series of Co-MOF-supported heterogeneous catalysts (NM@Co-MOFs, NM = Ag, Ru, Pd and Au) have been fabricated successfully via solution infiltration, for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4NP). Impressively, 2-Ru@Co-MOFs exhibit remarkable activity in comparison to other NM@Co-MOFs composites with the apparent rate constant reach 50.72 ​s-1 ​g-1, 26.14 ​s-1 ​g-1, and 22.79 ​s-1 ​g-1, respectively. Furthermore, the possible catalytic mechanism of 2-Ru@Co-MOFs has also been discussed based on the analysis of reaction kinetics. Three isostructural Co(II)-MOFs were synthesized by using a conjugated tetrabenzoic acid(H 4 L) as an organic ligand, and introducing three N-donor ligands with different length. Among these Co(II)-MOFs, each L4− anion bridges four typical paddle wheel secondary building units (SBUs) to form a two dimensional (2D) sheet, which further expanded to the three-fold interpenetrated structure with the aid of different pillared ligands. Inspired by the eligible structure/surface feature of these frameworks, a series of Co-MOF-supported heterogeneous catalysts (NM@Co-MOFs, NM = Ag, Ru, Pd and Au) have been fabricated successfully via solution infiltration, for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol. [Display omitted] • Three novel isostructural 3D Co(II)-MOFs have been prepared. • The integration metal nanoparticles into MOFs shows positive effect on reduction of 4-NP. • The electronic effects between noble metal and MOFs accelerate catalytic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new isostructural coordination polymers, [M 2 (μ 2 -H 2 O)(DTBC) 2 ] (CTGU- 26(M), M ​= ​Zn, Cd, Co and Ni] have been prepared with a new butterfly-typed nitroheterocyclic 4,6-di- 1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yi-1,3-benzenedicarboxylic acid(H 2 DTBC) ligand and metal salts under hydrothermal condition. CTGU-26(Zn) features an unusual 2-nodal (4, 8)-connected scu topological network generated by [Zn 2 (μ 2 -H 2 O)(COO) 4 ] units and DTBC2− anion linkers. Luminescent properties measurements indicate that both CTGU-26(Zn) and CTGU-26(Cd) show intense fluorescence-emission compared with free H 2 DTBC ligand in solid state. Moreover, the electrocatalytic activities of CTGU-26(Co) and CTGU-26(Ni) towards methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) of two compounds were also investigated. Remarkably, by combining each MOF with the conductive 2,3,6,7,10,11-hexahydroxytriphenylene(HHTP) additive, a composite material, HHTP/CTGU-26(Ni)–I was confirmed to have an excellent performance for MOR with a high mass specific peak current of 25.55 ​mA ​cm−2. Four new isostructural coordination polymers, [M 2 (μ 2 -H 2 O)(DTBC) 2 ] (CTGU-26(M), M ​= ​Zn, Cd, Co and Ni] have been prepared with one new butterfly-typed nitroheterocyclic carboxylate ligand was prepared and characterized. And the luminescent properties and methanol oxidation reaction were also discussed. [Display omitted] • Four new isostructural coordination polymers have been prepared with a new butterfly-typed nitroheterocyclic carboxylic acid. • They feature an unusual 2-nodal (4,8)-connected scu topological network generated by binuclear units and DTBC2− anion linkers. • The luminescent properties and the electrocatalytic MOR activities of four complexes has been studied and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Twenty-four new limonoids were obtained from Toona ciliata. • Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis, quantum chemistry calculations, and X-ray diffraction. • Several compounds showed significant anti-NLRP3 inflammasome activity. Twenty-four new limonoids, toonaolides A−X (1 – 24), characterized with an α , β -unsaturated- γ -lactone A-ring were isolated from the twigs of Toona ciliata. Their structures and absolute configurations were elucidated by spectroscopic data, X-ray diffraction crystallography, and quantum chemistry calculations. Most of the isolated compounds (except 9 , 18 , and 24 which possessed the maleimide ring) featured the rare 21-hydroxybutenolide or 23-hydroxybutenolide moieties. In particular, compound 1 has an unprecedented limonoid architecture with 6/6 cis -fused A/B ring system and 2 has an unusual tetrahydrofuran ring B skeleton, featuring a 7/5/6/5 ring system. The biological evaluation showed that compounds 9 , 11 , 12 , 14 , and 18 exhibited significantly anti-NLRP3 inflammasome activity with IC 50 values ranging from 3.2 to 9.7 μM. Analysis of IL-1 β and caspase-1 expression revealed that compounds 11 and 12 are selective inhibitors of NLRP3 inflammasome, which could ameliorate cell pyroptosis by blocking NLRP3 inflammasome activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]