Search

[Display omitted] Vanadate, as an advanced inorganic material, has been a major object of scientific research due to its flexible valence states and the multi-electron transfer mechanism of vanadium. This review concentrates on the application of vanadates in aqueous ZIBs, which facilitates researchers to understand the latest research progress on vanadate-based cathodes for ZIBs. Furthermore, the limitations of current vanadate-type cathodes are pointed out and the perspectives for their application in emerging energy storage areas are presented. • This work comprehensively summarizes the application of vanadates as aqueous ZIBs cathodes. • Electrochemical performance and energy storage behavior of vanadates cathodes are further discussed. • Current challenges and expected development foregrounds of vanadates cathodes in aqueous ZIBs are proposed. With the increasing pursuit of electronic products with high specific energy and outstanding environmental compatibility, developing advanced new power sources is urgent. As the representative of new energy, rechargeable aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) have gained much focus recently in the field of energy storage owing to their advantages of safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. Nevertheless, the progression of suitable Zn-storage cathode materials remains a huge challenge, limited by commercial requirements. Vanadate, as an advanced inorganic material, has been a major object of scientific research due to its flexible valence states and the multi-electron transfer mechanism of vanadium. Undeniably, understanding the electrochemical Zn-storage properties and mechanisms of this class of materials plays a crucial role in facilitating their development. However, there is a paucity of reviews on vanadates as cathodes for aqueous ZIBs. This review concentrates on the application of vanadates in aqueous ZIBs, which facilitates researchers to understand the latest research progress on vanadate-based cathodes for ZIBs. Finally, the limitations of current vanadate-type cathodes are pointed out and the perspectives for their application in emerging energy storage areas are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomolecules-mediated biomimetic mineralization has been extensively investigated and applied to fabricate nano-assemblies with unique hierarchical architectures and salient properties. The confined-source ion diffusion plays a key role in the biomineralization process, but little investigative efforts have focused on it. Here, we developed a simple method to mimic the in vivo condition by a confined diffusion method, and hydroxyapatite nanoflower assemblies (HNAs) with exquisite hierarchical architectures were obtained. The HNAs were assembled from needle-like hybrid nanocrystals of hydroxyapatite and hyaluronan. The results revealed that the strong interactions between ions and hyaluronan led to the nucleation of hydroxyapatite and the following aggregation. The combination of the external diffusion field and the internal multiple interactions induced the self-assembling processes. Additionally, HNAs with colloid stability and excellent biocompatibility were proved to be a promising cargo carrier for intranuclear delivery. This work presents a novel biomimetic mineralization strategy based on confined diffusion system for fabricating delicate hydroxyapatite, which offers a new perspective for the development of biomimetic strategies. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the associations between polysaccharide depletion and emulsion gelation is of great importance for achieving stable Pickering emulsion gels, but there is inconsistency in the relevant studies. In this work, we report a versatile strategy, by using depletion attractions of anionic polysaccharides - hyaluronic acid and sodium alginate, to realize the gelation of Pickering emulsions stabilized with various particles of different characteristics. The depletion interactions imposed by different ratios of a polysaccharide were demonstrated to be conducive to the formation of emulsion gels. With a higher addition of polysaccharides, emulsions underwent (1) enhanced interfacial adsorption at weak depletion, (2) bridging flocculation at moderate depletion, and (3) depletion flocculation at high depletion, which all led to the arrested dynamics and gelation of Pickering emulsions. The prepared emulsion gels exhibited good stabilities and favorable rheological properties including high gel strength, shear sensitivity, and thermostability. The universality of this study was further confirmed by using different types of Pickering stabilizers as well as oil phases. The polysaccharide-dependent depletion provides a simple strategy to design Pickering emulsion gels with tunable rheological behaviors for varied purposes. [Display omitted] • A versatile strategy based on polysaccharide depletion was demonstrated for the gelation of Pickering emulsions. • Hyaluronic acid and sodium alginate with different ratios exert positive effects on emulsion stabilization and gelation. • Strong polysaccharide depletion induced droplet flocculation and network formation. • The rheology of emulsion gels could be customized by polysaccharide depletion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing ideal adsorbents for moving phenolic compounds from aqueous solutions remains a challenge. Herein, novel poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs) of PIL-Ba-x and PIL-An-5 were prepared via Friedel–Crafts alkylation using benzyl alcohol and aniline auxiliary cross-linking agents, respectively, for the adsorption of m -cresol in the aqueous phase. The specific surface areas and pore volumes of the synthesized PILs can be adjusted by pre-polymerization time, thereby realizing the regulation of the adsorption property of m -cresol. Results showed that the adsorption kinetics of PILs conformed to pseudo-second-order kinetics and reached adsorption equilibrium within 6 min. Their adsorption thermodynamics conformed to the Langmuir models. Based on the fitting data of the Langmuir model, the maximum adsorption capacity of m -cresol by PIL-Ba-5 can reach 228 mg/g. Moreover, the mechanism analysis showed that hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interaction, and π–π interaction promoted the adsorption of m -cresol by PIL-Ba. After the adsorption of m -cresol was separated by anhydrous ethanol, the adsorbent was recovered at least five times, and the removal efficiency was stable. [Display omitted] • Novel PILs with high specific surface areas were synthesized for adsorbing m -cresol. • The adsorption performance of PILs can be regulated by the pre-polymerization time. • The maximum adsorption capacity of the prepared PIL is 228 mg/g. • The prepared PIL-Ba-5 can quickly reach adsorption equilibrium within 6 min. • The adsorption effect of PIL remains at a high level after five cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium titanate (Na 2 Ti 6 O 13) exhibits great potential as a sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) anode material, nevertheless the limited electronic conductivity markedly hampers its applications. To combat this shortcoming, carbon coating has been widely employed to fabricate Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 /C composites; however, this method requires a high-temperature processing that is energy-intensive releases environmental pollutants. Herein, silver is used as a novel conducting agent, and we demonstrated a simple and efficient method to prepare Ag@Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 composites. We find that nano-sized silver particles (3%) are well distributed on the Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 surface, leading to boosted conductivity of the composites. As a result, the Ag@Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 electrode exhibits an excellent performance for Na+ insertion, where after 100 cycles a discharge capacity of 189 mAh g −1 is achieved, demonstrating superior capacity retention of 97.9%. The result of silver coating on the battery performance was investigated coherently by various techniques, such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Our work provides a feasible approach to prepare electronically conductive compounds for battery applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supramolecular eutectogels, an emerging class of materials that have just developed very recently, offer a new opportunity for generating functional supramolecular gel materials in biocompatible anhydrous or low‐water media. As the first example of supramolecular G4 eutectogels, complexes of natural guanosine and H3BO3 exhibited excellent gelation capacity in choline chloride/alcohol deep eutectic solvents. The as‐prepared supramolecular eutectogels displayed unexpected solvent‐induced chiral inversion and significantly high ionic conductivity (up to 7.78 mS cm−1), as well as outstanding thixotropic/injectable properties, high thermal stability and excellent electrochromic activity. These features make these versatile supramolecular G4 eutectogels promising candidates for developing next‐generation flexible electronics with low environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supramolecular eutectogels, an emerging class of materials that have just developed very recently, offer a new opportunity for generating functional supramolecular gel materials in biocompatible anhydrous or low‐water media. As the first example of supramolecular G4 eutectogels, complexes of natural guanosine and H3BO3 exhibited excellent gelation capacity in choline chloride/alcohol deep eutectic solvents. The as‐prepared supramolecular eutectogels displayed unexpected solvent‐induced chiral inversion and significantly high ionic conductivity (up to 7.78 mS cm−1), as well as outstanding thixotropic/injectable properties, high thermal stability and excellent electrochromic activity. These features make these versatile supramolecular G4 eutectogels promising candidates for developing next‐generation flexible electronics with low environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver fibrosis resulting from continuous long-term hepatic damage represents a heavy burden worldwide. Liver fibrosis is recognized as a complicated pathogenic mechanism with extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. A series of drugs demonstrate significant antifibrotic activity in vitro and in vivo. No specific agents with ideally clinical efficacy for liver fibrosis treatment have been developed. In this review, we summarized the antifibrotic effects and molecular mechanisms of 29 kinds of common natural products. The mechanism of these compounds is correlated with anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic activities. Moreover, parenchymal hepatic cell survival, HSC deactivation, and ECM degradation by interfering with multiple targets and signaling pathways are also involved in the antifibrotic effects of these compounds. However, there remain two bottlenecks for clinical breakthroughs. The low bioavailability of natural products should be improved, and the combined application of two or more compounds should be investigated for more prominent pharmacological effects. In summary, exploration on natural products against liver fibrosis is becoming increasingly extensive. Therefore, natural products are potential resources for the development of agents to treat liver fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollution and energy shortage make the development of clean energy more and more urgent. As a kind of clean renewable energy, hydrogen have attracted great attentions in recent years. Recently, Co 3 O 4 -based materials have emerged as promising candidates for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), due to their attractive electrocatalytic activity, low cost as well as the electrochemical durability, which make it attract widely attentions. In this review, we summarize the application of Co 3 O 4 -based materials in electrocatalytic HER, including pure Co 3 O 4 , the doped Co 3 O 4 and the Co 3 O 4 -based composite materials. Furthermore, the strategies to enhance their electrocatalytic performance are summarized and discussed, such as morphological engineering, doping, as well as compositing with other materials. Finally, the limitation and challenges of Co 3 O 4 -based materials for HER, as well as their prospects for future research, are proposed. We believe that this review will be helpful for scientists to seek promising HER electrocatalytic materials. Image 1 • The application of Co 3 O 4 -based electrocatalysts in H 2 evolution is summarized. • The various modification strategies of Co 3 O 4 -based electrocatalysts are reviewed. • Challenges and future prospects of Co 3 O 4 -based electrocatalysts are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Polyaniline‐derived N‐doped carbon‐composited Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP@NC) are synthesized by a rheological phase reaction followed by calcination. The NVP@NC composite displays improved cycling and rate properties. Its discharge capacity remains 118.7 mAh g−1 at the 400th cycle at 0.3 C. It also obtains invertible capacities of 93.7 and 91.1 mAh g−1 at 5 and 10 C after 1000 cycles, with capacity retention rates of 92.7% and 98.4%, respectively. These enhanced results due to the N‐doped carbon layer (NC), which restrains the expansion and deformation of the crystal structure, reduce the transport length of sodium ion and electrons and improves the electroconductibility of NVP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: NaV3O8/polytriphenylamine composites were synthesized by an in situ oxypolymerization way for the first time. Among them, the NaV3O8/20 wt.% polytriphenylamine composite shows better cycling and rate performance. Its discharge capacity retains at 118.9 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at 120 mA g−1. It also obtains a reversible capacity of 101.7 mAh g−1 at 300 mA g−1 after 100 cycles. These enhanced results arise from the excellent morphology, that is, smaller particles of clear edges and uniform distribution suppress the expansion and deformation of the crystal structure, and avoid large agglomerate particles gathering during the electrochemical reaction. In addition, tight polytriphenylamine (PTPAn) coating also improves the conductivity of NaV3O8 cathode and suppresses the dissolution of NaV3O8 in electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Polypyrrole is successfully introduced to enhance the reaction stability and ionic conductivity of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 material through an ultrasound dispersion method and applied as cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. This polymer can significantly advance the electrochemical properties. Expectedly, the 8 wt.% LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2/polypyrrole composite has lower mixing degree of Li+/Ni2+, higher c/a value, which delivers the first discharge capacity of 199.2 mAh g−1, which abate to 121.3 mAh g−1 in the 300th cycle at 0.2 C between 2.5 and 4.5 V. Even at 3 C, it continues to reveal a reversible capacity of 86.4 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. All the consequences implied that the 8 wt.% LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2/polypyrrole verified a minor charge transfer resistance and better Li+ diffusion ability, hence establishing preferable rate and cycling performance compared with the primordial LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethylene glycol‐assisted sol‐gel method is employed for preparing LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 used as cathode material in lithium‐ion batteries. The prepared material has higher c/a value and lower cationic mixing degree of Li+/Ni2+, illuminating a more orderly structure, smaller particle size and more regular particle shape, which shorten the diffusion length for Li+ ions and allow the rapid kinetics of Li+ ions diffusion. Sure enough, the as‐prepared LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 material displays the first discharge capacity of 208 mAh g−1 and keeps 133 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles between 2.5 and 4.5 V at 0.2 C. In addition, it demonstrates excellent rate capacity of 143 mAh g−1 at 2 C. The results show that LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 prepared by this method has high discharge capacity, admirable rate capability and exceptional cycle stability, which provides significant insights into the synthesis of other layered oxides as cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Graphene‐wrapped poly 2,5‐dihydroxy‐1,4‐benzoquinone‐3,6‐methylene (PDBM) nanocomposites with three‐dimensional nanoflower structures have been successfully prepared through the ultrasonic exfoliation and reassembly process in methanol. Compact distribution of graphene into the nanocomposite has established a three‐dimensional conductive network, which contributes to improved properties on discharge capacity and cycle performance. Composite with 20 wt% graphene was proved the best ratio when used in sodium‐ion batteries. Its initial discharge capacity can achieve 210 at 30 mA g−1. After 100 cycles, the capacity is stable at 121 mAh g−1. The composite featuring highly conductive channels and multidimensional electron transport pathway is synthesized by an easy ultrasonic way, which may be applied in large scales for sodium‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• NVO are prepared using Pluronic-F127 as structure-directing agent. • NVO show unique nanorod structures. • NVO calcined at 400 °C shows high capacity and high rate capability. • Kinetics analysis verifies the pseudocapacitive behavior of R-400. • Outstanding performance is attributed to low resistance and fast Na+ ions intercalation/deintercalation kinetics. In this study, NaV 3 O 8 nanorods are successfully prepared using nonionic surface-active agents Pluronic-F127 as structure-directing agent. The as-prepared NaV 3 O 8 nanorods calcinated at different temperatures are characterized by various techniques, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The NaV 3 O 8 calcinated at 400 °C for 20 h shows appropriate sizes and uniform morphologies of the nanorods, 4–7 μm in length and 0.2–0.5 μm in diameter. The NaV 3 O 8 nanorods as cathode materials for Na-ion batteries deliver high discharge capacity reaching up 110.4 mAh g−1 at current density of 120 mA g−1, as well as long lifespan by maintaining capacity of 162.1 mAh g−1 after 500 charge-discharge cycles. Also, a high reversible capacity of 83.9 mAh g−1 can be retained after 500 cycles at high rate of 2 A g−1. The obtained outstanding electrochemical performances are associated with the unique micro-nano structures, which does not only facilitate transport of Na+ ion, but also resist erosion from electrolytes. Overall, the results suggest the promise of NaV 3 O 8 nanorods as cathode materials for high capacity, high power and long lifespan Na-ion batteries. This work may open an innovative route to discover diverse electrode materials with nanostructure for energy storage system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat cultivars with low cadmium (Cd) accumulation (WCCA-Cd) are widely used on Cd-contaminated farmland and can effectively reduce the grains Cd content to achieve the clean production in agriculture. However, there is a lack of soil Cd content thresholds specifically for the WCCA-Cd. To achieve safer production of wheat grains, a prediction model for WCCA-Cd was developed based on total Cd content in wheat grains (Grain-Cd) and soil factors using 379 soil‒wheat datasets from 10 field experiments in this research. The adaptability of the prediction model was tested using 312 pairs of data. Descriptive statistics (N = 379) showed that soil pH ranged from 4.28 to 8.76, the total Cd content in soil (Soil-Cd) ranged from 0.09 to 10.25 mg kg−1, and Grain-Cd ranged from 0.002 to 1.35 mg kg−1. Correlation analysis showed that Grain-Cd had a highly significant negative correlation with soil organic matter (SOM), soil pH, and soil conductivity (EC) and a highly significant positive correlation with Soil-Cd and Cd content in the diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid extraction state (DTPA-Cd) (P < 0.001). The bioconcentration factor (BCF) decreased with increaseing soil pH. Both random forest and stepwise regression equations indicated that the most important factors affecting Cd bioeffectiveness were Soil-Cd and soil pH, explaining 80% of the variation in Grain-Cd. The prediction model indicated a soil Cd threshold (0.23–1.25 mg kg−1) for the safe production of WCCA-Cd at soil pH (4–9), which has a wider range of applicability compared with the Chinese Soil Safety Standards. Therefore, these results can quantify the grain Cd content of WCCA-Cd and guide the safe and clean production of WCCA-Cd on different Cd contaminated farmlands. [Display omitted] • Grain Cd content prediction was based on 13 low-Cd wheat cultivars from field experiments. • The Cd bioconcentration factor of wheat grains decreased with increasing soil pH (pH > 5.5). • Soil Cd content and pH were the main soil factors affecting Cd accumulation in wheat grains. • Soil Cd thresholds were derived for the safe production of low-Cd-tested wheat cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the correlation between thyroid hormone (TH) concentrations and the serum fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) concentration in septic patients and to assess the collaborative value of these factors in predicting 28-day mortality in septic patients. A total of 120 consecutive patients with sepsis were divided into two groups according to their survival or death within 28 days after initial diagnosis of sepsis. Patients in the non-survivor group had significantly higher serum FGF21 concentrations but lower total and free triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine (T4) concentrations than those in the survivor group. Thyroid hormone concentrations, including T3, free T3, T4 and free T4, were significantly negatively correlated with the ∆SOFA and APACHE II scores as well as the serum FGF21, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-10, procalcitonin, and C-reactive protein concentrations. Logistic regression analysis showed that the ∆SOFA score, serum FGF21 concentration, and free T3 concentration were significant predictors of 28-day mortality. The model with variables of ∆SOFA score and serum FGF21 and free T3 concentrations had the greatest area under the curve of 0.969. The addition of free T3 and serum FGF21 to ∆SOFA score provided a significantly improved ability to predict 28-day mortality in septic patients. • Non-survivor septic patients had higher serum FGF21 but lower TT3, FT3, TT4 FT4. • Thyroid hormone levels negatively correlated with ∆SOFA, APACHE II and serum FGF21 in septic patients. • ∆SOFA score, serum FGF21 level, and FT3 level were predictors of 28-day mortality. • Addition of FT3 and FGF21 to ∆SOFA improved mortality prediction in septic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cycloaddition reactions of carbynes in metallacycles with π-bond substrates have been rarely reported. We report the first [2+2] cycloaddition of metallapentalynes with nitrosoarenes to obtain the first metallapentalenoxazetes, and their photophysical and electrochemical properties were studied by UV-Vis spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry with the help of theoretical calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A series of LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 /polytriphenylamine composites were successfully synthesized by ultrasound dispersion method. LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 /polytriphenylamine (5.0 wt%) composite with small and homogeneous particle size exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, which delivered an initial discharge capacity of 223.7 mAh g−1 with a capacity retention of 84.39% after 100 cycles in the voltage range of 2.5–4.5 V and at a current density of 0.2C. Moreover, an excellent specific discharge capacity of 127.3 mAh g−1 at a current density 5C indicates a superior rate performance of the LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 /polytriphenylamine (5.0 wt%) composite. The good electrochemical performances of the composite can be attributed to the introduction of polytriphenylamine, which increased electrical conductivity, decreased charge transfer resistance and increased Li+ ion diffusion ability. These noteworthy results demonstrated that LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 /polytriphenylamine composites might be potential cathode materials for lithium ion batteries. Graphical abstract Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • ZIF-8 nanocubes are rapidly synthesized and adjusted in aqueous solution. • ZnSe nanoparticles embedded N-doped carbon nanocubes (ZS-NP@NC) are first prepared. • ZS-NP@NC-600 displays high discharge capacity and excellent cyclability. • Kinetics analysis confirms the pseudocapacitive behavior of ZS-NP@NC. Abstract ZnSe is regarded as a promising anode material for reversible Li-ion batteries because of its high theoretical capacity. Herein, we report a facile chemical precipitation method to controllably synthesize ZIF-8 nanocubes and then select them as sacrificial templates to prepare ZnSe nanoparticles embedded N-doped carbon nanocubes. The as-obtained ZnSe/carbon nanocomposite at 600 °C demonstrates a high initial discharge capacity of 1170.8 mAh g−1 with the initial columbic efficiency of 68.8% at the current density of 0.1 A g−1 in the voltage range of 0.01–3 V. In addition, it displays a reversible capacity of 1166.6 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at the current density of 0.5 A g−1, indicating the excellent cyclic stability for the designed composites. The enhanced electrochemical performance can be ascribed to its high specific surface area (493.45 m2 g−1) and unique mesoporous structure, which provides efficient Li+ transport channels and additional storage sites. Furthermore, the existence of faradaic pseudocapacitance in ZnSe/carbon nanocomposites also affords additional capacity and contributes to the increased capacity with respect to charge/discharge cycle number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to clarify the expression characteristics and prognostic significance of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β3 in cranial meningiomas. We analyzed the expression of TGF-β3 at the mRNA level in 38 frozen meningioma samples. Clinical data collection, follow-up, correlations, and survival analyses were performed. World Health Organization (WHO) grade I meningiomas showed an average expression level of 2.55, which was higher than that of WHO grade II (average of 1.50) and WHO grade III (average of 0.21) (Kruskal-Wallis test, P = 0.008). For meningiomas with a history of surgery, the mean TGF-β3 expression level was 0.71, much lower than that of primary meningiomas with a mean value of 2.55 (Mann-Whitney U-test, P = 0.008). According to the Kaplan-Meier analysis and univariate Cox analysis, WHO grade (P = 0.001), history of surgery (P < 0.001), tumor volume (P = 0.045), preoperative Karnofsky Performance Status (P = 0.001), peritumoral brain edema (P = 0.039), postoperative radiotherapy (P = 0.001), degree of resection (P = 0.039), and TGF-β3 expression (P = 0.038) were prognostic factors for tumor recurrence. In addition, WHO grade (P < 0.001), history of surgery (P < 0.001), preoperative Karnofsky Performance Status (P = 0.002), peritumoral brain edema (P = 0.006), postoperative radiotherapy (P = 0.007), bone invasion (P = 0.03), and TGF-β3 expression (P = 0.041) were prognostic factors for mortality. TGF-β3 expression levels gradually declined with the increase of WHO grade and were lower in recurrent meningiomas than in primary meningiomas. Besides, low TGF-β3 expression was found to predict tumor recurrence and mortality in meningiomas based on univariate analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, in order to improve the tensile strength and toughness of dense C/SiC-SiBC, the thickness of PyC interphase (e PyC) was increased from 200 nm to 400 nm. C/SiC (e PyC ≈200 nm) was also fabricated as a benchmark comparison. C/SiC-SiBC (e PyC ≈200 nm) exhibited higher axial thermal residual stress (TRS) than C/SiC (e PyC ≈200 nm). Increased axial TRS resulted in increased interfacial shear strength (τ) through fiber bending, which caused lowered mechanical properties of C/SiC-SiBC (e PyC ≈200 nm). By increasing the thickness of PyC interphase from 200 nm to 400 nm, the axial TRS in C/SiC-SiBC decreased. Accordingly, the radial stress induced by fiber bending decreased, leading to a reduced τ in C/SiC-SiBC (e PyC ≈400 nm). Decreased axial TRS and τ are beneficial to the effective loading of fiber bundles and pull out of fibers. Therefore, C/SiC-SiBC (e PyC ≈400 nm) performed excellent tensile strength (250 ± 11 MPa) and fracture toughness (23.7 ± 0.5 MPa·m1/2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • FGF21 levels correlate with elevations of inflammatory biomarkers in sepsis. • FGF21 levels reflect the disease severity for septic patients. • FGF21 could serve as a prognostic biomarker in sepsis. • FGF21 levels >3200 pg/ml predict a dismal 28-day survival. Abstract Background Potential prognostic biomarkers for patients with sepsis have yet to be identified. The present study evaluated the prognostic value of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) levels in patients with sepsis. Methods A total of 120 consecutive Chinese patients with sepsis were prospectively included, and serum levels of FGF21 and biomarkers such as interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), IL-10, procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), and lactate (LAC) were measured within 24 h after intensive care unit admission. The demographic and clinical characteristics including underlying diseases, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (△SOFA), and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) scores were recorded. Patients were categorized into survival and non-survival groups according to the 28-day mortality. Correlations between FGF21, serum indicators, severity score and 28-day mortality were analyzed, and Cox regression analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the optimal cut-off of FGF21 for survival prediction. Results Non-survivors had significantly higher levels of FGF21, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, PCT, CRP, and LAC as well as higher SOFA and APACHE II scores compared with the survivors. FGF21 levels were positively correlated with age, waist circumference, levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF- α, PCT, CRP, and LAC, △SOFA and APACHE II scores. ROC curves showed that FGF21 had a high sensitivity of 81.3% and specificity of 89.8% for predicting 28-day mortality. Patients with a FGF21 levels <3200 pg/ml had a significantly better survival rate than those with levels >3200 pg/ml, and thus, FGF21 was an independent prognostic factor for survival. Conclusion FGF21 could serve as a new prognostic biomarker for sepsis survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 16 Muller matrix elements measurement at a single shot. • Spatial polarization modulation in both PSG and PSA by using vortex retarders. • No rotating and active elements involved. • Model free calibration method: modulation vector calibration method (MVCM). • Compact configuration; stable, fast and accurate measurement. We propose a dual vortex retarder Mueller matrix ellipsometry (DVRMME) that can extract 16 Mueller matrix elements by analyzing a single intensity image. Two customized vortex quarter wave retarders (VQWRs) with different orders are employed to realize the spatial modulation in the polarization state generation (PSG) and polarization state analyzing (PSA) arms. Due to the spatial polarization modulation by VQWRs, a pattern with regularly varying intensity along the azimuth direction is formed, and the sample's Mueller matrix can be obtained by processing the modulated intensity image. The ellipsometry's working principle has been elaborated by the Stokes-Mueller formalism, and its main error sources are presented and analyzed, and then a modulation vector calibration method is proposed to reduce the measurement error. To verify the validity of the scheme, the DVRMME has been constructed and demonstrated in experiment. The Mueller matrices of air, polarizer and retarder were measured, and their RMS errors of 16 Mueller matrix elements were respectively less than 0.0110, 0.0094 and 0.0180, and their maximum absolute errors were respectively less than 0.0196, 0.0230 and 0.0352. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A "signal off" electrochemical aptasensor based on metal-organic framework (MOF) - based nanocomposites and RecJf exonuclease-assisted target recycling was constructed for ultrasensitive detection of vanillin (VAN). In this work, benefited from the high catalytic activity of the synthesized gold nanoparticle/iron-based MOF/polyetherimide-reduced graphene oxide (AuNPs/NH 2 -MOF-235(Fe)/PEI-rGO) and the AuNPs/Ce-MOF nanocomposites toward thionine (Thi), the electrochemical signal was amplified. And the target recycling assisted by RecJf exonuclease were triggered with the presence of VAN, which induced the strongly reduced electrochemical signal. On account of dual amplification strategies, the performance of the aptasensor was significantly improved to achieve ultrasensitive detection of VAN. Under optimal conditions, the linear relationship was fitted for VAN with a linear range of 2 pM - 0.2 mM and the detection limit of 1.14 pM (S/N = 3). Furthermore, this assay for VAN has excellent specificity, long-term stability, and satisfactory results of the detection in the real samples. In summary, the aptasensor could be further used for the specific quantitative determination of other targets in foods. [Display omitted] • MOF-based nanocomposites of both AuNPs/NH 2 -MOF-235(Fe)/PEI-rGO and AuNPs/Ce-MOF were used for signal amplification. • RecJf exonuclease was used for target recycling. • Ultrasensitive detection of vanillin with a detection limit of 1.14 pM achieved by the dual signal amplification strategy • This developed aptasensor was successfully applied to detect vanillin in the chocolate, milk, and juice samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the potential of using foam concrete as a lightweight filling material for high-speed railway roadbeds was studied. The influence of coarse fly ash on the workability, mechanical, shrinkage performances and durability of foam concrete were analyzed. X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT) was used to characterize the microstructure and quantitatively in situ monitor the water transfer behavior of foam concrete. The results show that coarse fly ash enhances many properties of foam concrete, including workability and mechanical and freeze-thaw resistance properties, while the reverse phenomenon is observed for water absorption and drying shrinkage properties. A good linear relationship was provided between the fine content and the absorption coefficients. Finally, continuous field testing of settlement, lateral displacement and soil pressure in the Hangzhou east railway station project shows good loading and differential settlement reduction properties when foam concrete was used as a filling material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We constructed a series of novel chiral molecular face-rotating polyhedra (FRP) from two 10,15-dihydro-5H-diindolo[3,2-a:3′,2′-c]carbazole (triazatruxene) derivatives and trans-1,2-cyclohexane diamine, and investigated how facial interactions and the positions of substituents determine the diastereoselectivity and geometry of the final assemblies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a numerical method to study the effect of pore shapes on the effective thermal conductivity (ETC) of cellular concrete by a two-dimensional model. Cellular concrete can be seen as a composite of two phases with pore and cement paste. The model is established by two steps. Firstly, a generation of two-dimensional representative volume element of cellular concrete microstructure is necessary. Secondly, a finite element method is adopted to simulate heat transfer through the pixelated microstructure. Simulations are validated against analytical approximations, as well as experimental data from the literature. The model can also be used to evaluate the pore size distribution and orientation effects that are hard to measure only in laboratory experiments. It is concluded that ETC decreases when triangle pores substitute for circular pores on account that the tortuosity increases continuously. The other shapes of non-circular pores (square, pentagon and hexagon) have negligible effects on ETC. For ellipse cases, ETC decreases with increase in aspect ratio and volume fraction of pore. In the case of aligned pores, the ETC is larger along the principal axis. However, the size distribution of pores seems to have an insignificant influence. The numerical results suggest that the finite element method (FEM) considering quantitative data of thermal transfer behavior of cellular concrete can be obtained by the pore shapes, and it may be of great help to the optimization of materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical behavior and oxidation resistance of SiC/SiC-SiBC composites were studied in this work. According to the debonding criterion of He and Hutchinson, the debonding could occur at the BN interphase, which insures that the fibers can well play the strengthening and toughening performance. The oxidation resistance of SiC/SiC-SiBC composites consisting of SiC fibers with thermal expansion coefficients (CTE) of 5.1 × 10 −6 K −1 and 4.0 × 10 −6 K −1 was compared. The composites consisting of SiC fibers with higher CTE show slight weight changes at 800, 1000, and 1200 °C, and the corresponding strength retention ratios are 109.6%, 103.2% and 102.9%, exhibiting excellent oxidation resistance. The CTE of composites consisting of SiC fibers with higher CTE matches well with the CTE of SiC coating, so rarely no cracks can be formed in the coating, which inhibits the inward diffusion of oxidizing medium and leads to high strength retention ratios after oxidation tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LiV 3 O 8 /poly (3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (LVO/PEDOT) composites were synthesized via an in-situ oxidative polymerization process. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, galvanostatic discharge/charge tests, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques are used to characterize the as-prepared samples. The results demonstrated that the electrochemical performances of LVO/PEDOT composites have greatly improved in comparison with bare LVO. The discharge capacities of 20 wt% LVO/PEDOT composite are 270, 265, 252, 240, and 229 mAh g − 1 and ˃95% capacity retention is maintained after the charge-discharge 50 cycles at the current densities of 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 mA g − 1 , respectively. A high reversible capacity of 176 mAh g − 1 (only 58 mAh g − 1 for the bare LVO) can be maintained after 50 cycles at a very high current rate of 2000 mA g − 1 . Electrochemical impedance spectra results implied that the 20 wt% LVO/PEDOT composite revealed a decreased charge transfer resistance and increased Li + ions diffusion ability. This noteworthy improvement is ascribed to the combination of PEDOT, which can act just as a defending layer to inhibit the LVO from direct contact with electrolyte and buffer volume change, and act just as a conductive network to improve the electronic conductivity, thus cycling stability and rate capability are improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LiV 3 O 8 /10 wt% poly(1,5-diaminoanthraquinone) composite was prepared by a in situ chemical oxidative polymerization process and applied as cathode material for rechargeable lithium batteries. Due to the introduction of poly(1,5-diaminoanthraquinone) and electrochemical synergistic effect, the composite demonstrated better rate capabilities and cycling performances compared to the bare LiV 3 O 8 sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To facilitate the design and construction of complex functional materials, the field of molecular assembly can learn from the well-established field of catalysis including its branches such as electrocatalysis and photo-electrocatalysis. In this study, we establish a “photo-electro-catassembly” strategy to repeatedly fabricate two-dimensional molecular assemblies on electrode surface by learning from the concept of photo-electrocatalysis. With the rational design of the linear diacetylene building blocks, Au electrode surface itself and the thiol-functionalized electrode both can assist the formation of two-dimensional assemblies and their subsequent covalent stabilization through the polymerization of diacetylene groups. Nevertheless, when using the Au electrode surface as a direct template, the polymerized product would be hardly removed from the electrode due to the strong synergistical interactions through multivalent Au-S bonds. By contrast, when using the thiol-functionalized electrode as an indirect template, the diacetylene building block forms a well-ordered second layer over the thiol monolayer due to the solvent-phobic and solvent-philic effects. After photo-polymerization, the polymerized product can still be removed from the electrode along the electro-induced removal of the thiol monolayer. Driven by electricity and photoirradiation, the thiol-functionalized electrode assists the combined process of assembly and photo-polymerization as a “photo-electrocatassembler”, and it works repeatedly to produce covalently stabilized two-dimensional assemblies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the post-synthesis interconversion of two enantiomeric organic cages through turning inside out. By scrutinizing the thermodynamics and kinetics, we are able to control the racemization rate by various reaction conditions and reveal that the turning-inside-out interconversion is realized through a partial disassembly pathway. The kinetics investigation also provides insight into the dynamic essence of imine chemistry using different solvents and catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitro polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs) and microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants that pose a threat to the aquatic ecosystem. Knowledge of the NPAHs and MPs interaction will help the understanding of their fate and risks in natural environment. Here, the adsorption behavior and mechanism of typical NPAHs on microplastics were investigated. The adsorption kinetic and isotherm data showed that the adsorption of NPAHs was controlled by chemical adsorption and hydrophobic partition, because of excellent fit of kinetic and isothermal equations (R2 > 0.9). The adsorption capacity (587–744 μg g−1) was largely dependent on the hydrophobicity of NPAHs. The experiment of environmental factors confirmed the important role of pollutant hydrophobicity, with 1-Npyr of the highest hydrophobicity having the greatest adsorption on MPs (adsorption rate >90%) and less affected by solution pH and ionic strength (changer <5%). In the mixture system, MPs displayed high adsorption capacity for each compound; Interestingly, because compounds with smaller size were easy to occupy the adsorption sites in the pores of MPs, the adsorption of 2-Nflu (724 μg g−1) was even greater than that of 9-Nant (713 μg g−1) and 1-Npyr (703 μg g−1). The model calculation of adsorption also shows that there is surface adsorption and hydrophobic distribution in the adsorption process. The findings provide new insights into the interactions of MPs with organic pollutants in complex environments. [Display omitted] • NPAHs with higher hydrophobicity had greater adsorption capacity on MPs. • Environmental factors had little effect on the NPAH with the highest adsorption capacity. • NPAHs with smaller size were easier to occupy the adsorption sites in NPAH coexisting system. • The model showed adsorption process affected by surface adsorption firstly and then hydrophobic partition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ultrasensitive sandwich-type electrochemical biosensor for microRNA (miRNA) detection is developed based on magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoflower and graphene oxide–gold nanoparticles (GO–AuNPs) hybrids coupling with electrochemical–chemical–chemical (ECC) detection system. In this bioassay system, MgO nanoflowers and AuNPs are modified on electrode to act as sensing platform. The thiolated capture probe is then self-assembled onto AuNPs/MgO substrate via formation of Au-S bonds. Subsequently, a biotinylated DNA signal probe is conjugated to GO–AuNPs hybrids. When miRNA-21 is added, a sandwich complex is formed and a lot of signal indicators streptavidin-conjugated alkaline phosphatases (SA-ALP) are immobilized upon electrode by the specific reaction between avidin and biotin. Finally, ECC reaction is performed in the system to improve detection signal. The proposed sandwich-type assay benefits from advantages of sandwich-type structure for enhanced sensitivity and specificity, MgO nanoflowers/AuNPs as sensing platform and GO–AuNPs hybrids as signal carriers for signal amplification, and ECC as a sensitive detection system for low detection limit. This biosensor exhibits a good dynamic ranging from 0.1 to 100 fM and a low detection limit of 50 aM (S/N = 3) toward target miRNA-21. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patchouli alcohol (PA), a tricyclic sesquiterpene, is one of the critical bioactive ingredients and is mainly isolated from aerial part of Pogostemon cablin (known as guanghuoxiang in China) belonging to Labiatae. So far, PA has been widely applied in perfume industries. This review was written with the use of reliable information published between 1974 and 2016 from libraries and electronic researches including NCKI, PubMed, Reaxys, ACS, ScienceDirect, Springer, and Wiley-Blackwell, aiming at presenting comprehensive outline of security, pharmacokinetics, and bioactivities of PA and at further providing a potential guide in exploring the PA and its use in various medical fields. We found that PA maybe was a low toxic drug that was acquired numerously through vegetable oil isolation and chemical synthesis and its stability and low water dissolution were improved in pharmaceutics. It also possessed specific pharmacokinetic characteristics, such as two-compartment open model, first-order kinetic elimination, and certain biometabolism and biotransformation process, and was shown to have multiple biological activities, that is, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antitumor, antimicrobial, insecticidal, antiatherogenic, antiemetic, whitening, and sedative activity. However, the systematic evaluations of preparation, pharmaceutics, toxicology, pharmacokinetics, and bioactivities underlying molecular mechanisms of action also required further investigation prior to practices of PA in clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of molecular weight on the rate and extent of melt-infiltration of polystyrene into mesoporous silicon-based photonic crystals is investigated as a function of polymer molecular weight. Polymer viscosity and chain end-to-end (Ree) distance correlate with the rate and extent of infiltration. High molecular weight (Mw) polystyrene (200 or 400 kDa) infiltrates the mesoporous material in two distinct phases: a rapid phase where the larger pores of the template are filled, followed by a slower phase during which the smaller pores fill. Low molecular weight polystyrene (20 and 35 kDa) fills the pores more uniformly, progressing into the film as a single, relatively distinct front of liquid polymer. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses of cross sections of the films are consistent with the optical measurements, showing a lower extent of infiltration for the higher molecular weight polymers. Removal of the porous Si templates by soaking in a chemical etchant generates free-standing films of nanostructured polymer. The low molecular weight samples display better replication. Partial removal of the template enables tuning of the hydrophobicity of the free-standing polymer films, which is demonstrated with a flexible and chemically stable polyvinylidene fluoride polymer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Na 2 THBQ were combined with CDs as cathode materials in SIBs for the first time. • o -Na 2 THBQ/CDs-2 performed good cycling stability and rate performance. • The mechanism of o -Na 2 THBQ/CDs-2 was explored by ex-situ tests. • The sodium ion diffusion coefficient of the materials was tested by GITT. Organic compounds are considered auspicious due to their widespread presence in nature, low cost, and sustainability. However, the inherent drawbacks of these organics' compounds, like low-conductivity and high-solubility, restrict their large-scale application. To solve these problems, we innovatively combined carbon quantum dots (CDs) with active substances (tetrahydroxybenzoquinone ortho -disodium salt (o -Na 2 THBQ)) at different mass ratios. The optimized o -Na 2 THBQ/CDs-2 (the mass ratio of o -Na 2 THBQ to CDs is 10:2) exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, the first-cycle discharge specific capacity was 410 mAh g−1 and maintained 182 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles, and the Coulombic efficiency was nearly 100 %. After 1300 cycles, the o -Na 2 THBQ/CDs-2 composite demonstrated a high specific capacity of 63 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1. This work provides a reference to design an optimal composite ratio of carbon dots (CDs) and organics to fabricate cathode materials for high-performance sodium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to prepare a series of spherical NiCo 2 S 4 materials coated with N-doped C (NiCo 2 S 4 /NC-400 °C, NiCo 2 S 4 /NC-450 °C and NiCo 2 S 4 /NC-500 °C) by calcining the precursor of NiCo-MOF (metal organic framework) at different temperatures, and to explore the applications as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. The results showed that the electrochemical reaction mechanism of the three materials is conversion reaction. Compared with NiCo 2 S 4 /NC-400 °C and NiCo 2 S 4 /NC-450 °C, NiCo 2 S 4 /NC-500 °C exhibited excellent cycle performance and rate performance at different current densities. NiCo 2 S 4 /NC-500 °C has a minimum charge transfer resistance. In addition, the pseudocapacitance contribution rate was 67.1 % at the scanning speed of 0.5 mV s−1, as well as relatively good structural characteristics and small particle size. The results of this study provide a reference for the application of NiCo 2 S 4 /NC materials in lithium-ion batteries. • Spherical NiCo 2 S 4 coated with N-doped C is prepared by calcining the precursor of NiCo-MOF. • N-doped C leads to good structural characteristics, small particle size and increases the intrinsic conductivity. • NiCo 2 S 4 /NC-500 °C demonstrates the best specific discharge/charge capacities and rate performance. • The conversion reaction mechanism of NiCo 2 S 4 /NC is revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel ultrasensitive electrochemical aptasensor was proposed for quantitative detection of Cd2+. To this end, flower-like polyethyleneimine-functionalized molybdenum disulfide-supported gold nanoparticles (PEI-MoS 2 NFs@Au NPs) were used as substrates for the modification of bare gold electrodes (AuE). PEI-MoS 2 NFs@Au NPs not only possessed excellent biocompatibility and large specific surface area to enhance the cDNA loading capacity, but also possessed good conductivity to accelerate the electron transfer rate. Furthermore, the preparation of dendritic platinum-palladium nanoparticles (PtPd NPs) can effectively load Cd2+-aptamer. Thionine and aptamers were loaded onto PtPd NPs to construct Thi-PtPd NPs-aptamer signal probes. The signal probes were captured by the cDNA immobilized on the electrode via base-pairing rule, and the signal of Thi was detected by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). In the presence of Cd2+, aptamer-cDNA unwinded, and the combination of aptamer and Cd2+ caused the signal probes to fall off the electrode and the electrical signal decreases. Under optimal conditions, the proposed aptasensor exhibited a linear relationship between the logarithm of Cd2+ concentration and the current response over a wide range of 1 × 10−3 nM to 1 × 102 nM, with a detection limit of 2.34 × 10−4 nM. At the same time, the aptasensor was used to detect Cd2+ in tap water with satisfactory results. In addition, it has good reproducibility, selectivity and stability, and has broad application prospects in heavy metal analysis. [Display omitted] • The electrochemical signal could be amplified largely by the synthesized PEI-MoS 2 @Au NPs. • PtPd NPs were severed as nanocarrier for aptamer and Thi. • Ultrasensitive detection of Cd2+ by reliable electrochemical aptasensor. • The competitive recognition was utilized for the Cd2+ detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For cost and safety reasons, aqueous batteries are suitable for large-scale energy storage. Among all aqueous batteries, the rechargeable aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) are promising choices owing to the low equilibrium potential and high volumetric capacity of zinc. However, its development is also severely hindered by the limited available cathode materials, which generally display poor cycling capabilities. As one of the most investigated POVs (polyvanadates) today, (V 10 O 28)6− has been demonstrated to be feasible in the energy storage rely on the well-defined structure and fascinating material activity. Herein, we propose a polyvanadate-Na 6 V 10 O 28 with (V 10 O 28)6− anion as a support structure and serve it for the first time as aqueous ZIBs cathode. The high stability of the (V 10 O 28)6− cluster permits the material to tolerate the reversible (de)insertion of Zn2+. As a result, the Na 6 V 10 O 28 cathode delivers a high capacity of 279.5 mAh g−1 and extraordinary lifespan over 2000 cycles. Furthermore, the pseudocapacitance analysis and GITT test reveal the pseudocapacitance behavior and high Zn2+ diffusion coefficient (10−10 cm2 s−1) of the Na 6 V 10 O 28 /Zn cell, respectively. Not only that, ex-situ XRD, XPS, and TEM are also employed to analyze the storage mechanism of Zn2+, indicating the synergistic Zn-storage capacity of Na 6 V 10 O 28 and irreversible products. Overall, this work presents new insights into the application of Na 6 V 10 O 28 in aqueous ZIBs and also demonstrates the competitive potential of POVs for energy storage. [Display omitted] • For the first time, the Na 6 V 10 O 28 cathode is applied for aqueous zinc ion batteries. • Na 6 V 10 O 28 delivers excellent cycling stability and the high specific discharge capacity. • The Zn2+ ion diffusion rate of Na 6 V 10 O 28 is as high as 10−10 cm2 s−1. • The high reversibility of Zn2+ insertion/extraction in Na 6 V 10 O 28 is demonstrated by ex-situ XRD. For cost and safety reasons, aqueous batteries are suitable for large-scale energy storage. Among all aqueous batteries, rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are promising choices owing to the low equilibrium potential and high volumetric capacity of zinc. However, its development is also severely hindered by the limited available cathode materials, which generally display poor cycling capabilities. As one of the most investigated POVs (polyvanadates) today, (V 10 O 28)6− has been demonstrated to be feasible in energy storage rely on the well-defined structure and fascinating material activity. Herein, we propose a polyvanadate-Na 6 V 10 O 28 with (V 10 O 28)6− anion as a support structure and serve it for the first time as an aqueous ZIBs cathode. The high stability of the (V 10 O 28)6− cluster permits the material to tolerate the reversible (de)insertion of Zn2+. As a result, the Na 6 V 10 O 28 cathode delivers a high capacity of 279.5 mAh g−1 after activation and an extraordinary lifespan over 2000 cycles. Furthermore, the pseudocapacitance analysis and GITT test reveal the pseudocapacitance behavior and high Zn2+ diffusion coefficient (10−10 cm2 s−1) of the Na 6 V 10 O 28 /Zn cell, respectively. Not only that, ex-situ XRD, XPS, and TEM are also employed to analyze the storage mechanism of Zn2+, indicating the synergistic zinc-storage capacity of Na 6 V 10 O 28 and irreversible products. Overall, this work presents new insights into the application of Na 6 V 10 O 28 in aqueous ZIBs and also demonstrates the competitive potential of POVs for energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• SlERF.B1 strongly responds to multiple stress treatments. • SlERF.B1- overexpression tomato plants exhibited lower tolerance to osmotic stress. • SlERF.B1 could repress SlARF5 and SlER24 expressions by binding to DRE in promoters. Ethylene response factors (ERFs) are unique to plants and play crucial roles in their response to various biotic and abiotic stresses, but the physiological and molecular mechanisms accounting for the functions of many ERF genes in abiotic stress are not well characterized in tomato. Here, an ERF gene, SlERF.B1 was characterized, which belongs to the IX subfamily of ERFs. SlERF.B1 expression was induced by salt, mannitol, cold, heat and ACC treatments, but repressed by ABA, IAA and 1-MCP treatments. The SlERF.B1 protein was nuclear-localized in tobacco and had no transcription activity in yeast. SlERF.B1 -overexpression transgenic tomato and Arabidopsis exhibited significantly high sensitivity to salt treatment compared to wild-type at the phenotypic and physiological levels. Similarly, SlERF.B1- overexpression tomato plants exhibited lower tolerance to mannitol and drought stresses. Transcriptional analysis showed that transcript levels of several stress-responsive genes in SlERF.B1 -overexpression lines were significantly inhibited under salt and drought stresses. Additionally, SlERF.B1 could repress SlARF5 (Auxin response factor 5) and SlER24 (ethylene-responsive transcriptional coactivator/Multiprotein bridging factor 1) expressions by binding to dehydration-responsive element (DRE) in the promoters. Overall, the current results suggest that SlERF.B1 functions as a negative regulator of osmotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) field has witnessed a tremendous advancement in the exploration of materials that can combine high energy density and short charge times. Nevertheless, these materials are primarily focused on manganese-based or vanadium-based oxides, and there are fewer reports on new materials. Herein, we proposed a new ZIBs cathode material based on polyoxovanadates (POVs) type K 4 Na 2 V 10 O 28 (KNVO). It demonstrated the advantages of POVs, which could undergo multi-electron redox processes at each V center. The reversible capacity was maintained at 152.3 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1, and the capacity retention was close to 100% after 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1. Additionally, the kinetic properties of the KNVO/Zn cell were investigated by Trasatti research, pseudocapacitance analysis and GITT test, respectively, manifesting a strong capacitive behavior as well as a high Zn2+ diffusion coefficient (order of 10−10 cm2 s−1). Not only that, but we also analyzed the relevant characteristic parameters of EIS in-depth, aiming to systematically probe the changes in electrochemical behavior before and after cycling. The synthesis and investigation of KNVO cathode materials may provide directions for the development of electrode materials for a rising generation of aqueous ZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Threonylcarbamoyladenosine (t6A) is a modified nucleoside universally conserved in tRNAs in all three kingdoms of life. The recently discovered genes for t6A synthesis, including tsaC and tsaD, are essential in model prokaryotes but not essential in yeast. These genes had been identified as antibacterial targets even before their functions were known. However, the molecular basis for this prokaryotic-specific essentiality has remained a mystery. Here, we show that t6A is a strong positive determinant for aminoacylation of tRNA by bacterial-type but not by eukaryotic-type isoleucyl-tRNA synthetases and might also be a determinant for the essential enzyme tRNAIle-lysidine synthetase. We confirm that t6A is essential in Escherichia coli and a survey of genome-wide essentiality studies shows that genes for t6A synthesis are essential in most prokaryotes. This essentiality phenotype is not universal in Bacteria as t6A is dispensable in Deinococcus radiodurans, Thermus thermophilus, Synechocystis PCC6803 and Streptococcus mutans. Proteomic analysis of t6A- D. radiodurans strains revealed an induction of the proteotoxic stress response and identified genes whose translation is most affected by the absence of t6A in tRNAs. Thus, although t6Ais universally conserved in tRNAs, its role in translation might vary greatly between organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 nanorods are prepared by the hydrothermal and solid-phase sintering methods. • Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 nanorods has large interlayer spacing (about 0.798 nm). • Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 nanorods exhibit high cycle capacity and high rate capability. • The pseudo-capacitance contribution rate and Na+ diffusion coefficient are calculated. [Display omitted] In this study, Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 nanorods with large interlayer spacing (about 0.798 nm) were synthesized by the hydrothermal and solid-phase sintering methods, and applied to the anode of sodium ion batteries (SIBs). The influence of different calcination temperatures on the electrochemical properties of Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 nanorods were all studied. Benefitting from the nanorods structure and the large interlayer spacing, the Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 prepared at 800 °C possessed fast Na+ diffusion and achieved high discharge capacities of 168.2 and 115.2 mA h g−1 at different current densities of 20 and 500 mA g−1, respectively, and remained at 131.1 and 96.7 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles, which exhibited the best cycling stability, fast Na+ diffusion characteristics, and excellent rate performance. Supported by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, we found that the value of R ct became larger and the D Na + became smaller with the progress of charge and discharge, which might be the cause of the decrease in the specific discharge capacity. The detailed analysis of cyclic voltammetry test confirmed that the proportion of pseudo-capacitance gradually decreased with the electrochemical reaction process keeping, from 83.8% at the beginning to 60.9% at the 100th cycle. This work establishes a valuable basis for the future study of Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 as outstanding anode material for SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the interactions between graphene and biomolecules is of fundamental relevance to the area of nanobiotechnology. Herein, we take l-cysteine as the probe biomolecule and investigate its adsorption on pristine graphene and B-, N-, Al-, Ni-, Ga-, Pd-doped graphene using density functional theory calculations. Three kinds of upright adsorption configurations, via unprotonated functional groups (–SH, –NH2, –COOH), are considered. The calculations reveal pristine graphene physically adsorbs l-cysteine. N-doped graphene shows physisorption towards the S-end and N-end l-cysteine, and chemisorption towards the O-end radical. Strong chemisorption, with site-specific preference, occurs on Al-, Ni-, Ga- and Pd-doped graphene, accompanied by severe structural changes. Spin polarization with an unusual mirror symmetry on Ni- and Pd-doped graphene is induced by chemisorption of unprotonated l-cysteine, except for O-end adsorption on Pd-doped graphene. The magnetization arises mainly from spin polarization of the C 2pz orbital, with a minor magnetism located on Ni or Pd. The influence of van der Waals forces is also evaluated. A thorough analysis of the adsorption stability and magnetism of these systems would be beneficial to facilitate applications in graphene-based biosensing, biomolecule immobilization, magnetic bio-separation and other fields in bionanotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• NVO material doped by niobium ion (Nb5+) was successfully prepared by the rheological phase method. • Nb-doping lead to an expansion of the lattice volume and increase the intrinsic conductivity. • NaNb 0.018 V 2.982 O 8 demonstrates high-rate capability and long-term cyclability. • Pseudocapacitive behavior of Nb-doped NVO is confirmed by kinetics analysis. In this work, NaNb 0.018 V 2.982 O 8 (NVO-0.018Nb) composite was served as the cathode of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) to deliver a superior Na-storage capacity of 187 mA h g−1 at the current density of 1 C and voltage range of 1.5–4.0 V, and favorable energy density (419.3 Wh kg−1). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements displayed decreased charge transfer resistance in the NVO-0.018Nb composite. The detailed kinetic analysis revealed enhanced surface-controlled behaviors, leading to improved sodium-storage capability. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analyses demonstrated that NVO-0.018Nb composite exhibited unique structure with significantly enhanced structural stability during fast cycling. In sum, the proposed method looks promising for the design of future advanced electrode materials of SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel [4+2] cycloaddition reaction between osmium alkenylcarbyne complex [OsHCl2{CC(PPh3)CHPh}(PPh3)2]+BF4− ( 1) and nitriles (acetonitrile and benzonitrile) provided metallapyridiniums [OsCl2{CHC(PPh3)CPhCRNH}(PPh3)2]+BF4− (R=CH3 ( 2), Ph ( 3)) and OsCl3{CHC(PPh3)CPhCPhNH}(PPh3) ( 4). A possible mechanism was proposed. Treatment of 2 with n-BuLi and NEt3 afforded osmapyridines OsCl2{CHC(PPh3)CPhCCH3N}(PPh3)2 ( 5) and [OsCl{CHC(PPh3)CPhCCH3N}(C6H5N)(PPh3)2]+BF4− ( 6). The ligands of osmapyridiniums 2 and 4 were changed, thus providing a series of osmapyridiniums [OsCl(SCN){CHC(PPh3)CPhC(CH3)NH}(PPh3)2]+Cl − ( 7), OsCl(SCN)2{CHC(PPh3)CPhC(CH3)NH}(PPh3) ( 8), Os(SCN)3{CHC(PPh3)CPhC(CH3)NH}(PPh3) ( 9), [OsCl{CHC(PPh3)CPhC(CH3)NH}(CH3CN)(PPh3)2]+(BF4−)2 ( 10), [OsCl{CHC(PPh3)CPhC(CH3)NH}-( η2-1,10-phenanthroline)(PPh3)]+(BF4−)Cl− ( 11), [OsCl{CHC(PPh3)CPhC(CH3)NH}(η2-8-hydroxyquinoline) (PPh3)]+BF4− ( 12), and [Os{CHC(PPh3)CPhCPhNH}(CH3CN)3(PPh3)]+(BF4−)3 ( 13). Most of these products were characterized by NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and single crystal X-ray diffraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the modification of a graphene paste electrode with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and a Nafion-L-cysteine composite film, and how this electrode can serve as a platform for the construction of a novel electrochemical immunosensor for the detection of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). To obtain the immunosensor, an antibody against HBsAg was immobilized on the surface of the electrode, and this process was followed by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The peak currents of a hexacyanoferrate redox system decreased on formation of the antibody-antigen complex on the surface of the electrode. Then increased electrochemical response is thought to result from a combination of beneficial effects including the biocompatibility and large surface area of the AuNPs, the high conductivity of the graphene paste electrode, the synergistic effects of composite film, and the increased quantity of HBsAb adsorbed on the electrode surface. The differential pulse voltammetric responses of the hexacyanoferrate redox pair are proportional to the concentration of HBsAg in the range from 0.5-800 ng mL, and the detection limit is 0.1 ng mL (at an S/N of 3). The immunosensor is sensitive and stable. [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]