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Background. Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is closely related to diabetes and obesity, both of which are confirmed to increase the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). Our study aimed to investigate whether the polymorphisms in GIP genes could affect the risk of cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetic patients in the Chinese Han population. Methods. We selected and genotyped two haplotype-tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (tag-SNPs) (rs2291725 C>T, rs8078510 G>A) of GIP gene based on CHB data in HapMap Phase II database (r2<0.8). The case-control study of Chinese Han population involved 390 diabetic patients with CAD as positive group and 276 diabetic patients without CAD as control group. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared between the two groups. Results. In dominant inheritance model, the carriers of T/T or T/C had a lower risk of CAD (OR = 0.635, 95% CI = 0.463–0.872, p=0.005), even after adjustment other CAD risk factors (gender, age, BMI, smoking status, dyslipidemia, hypertension history, and diabetic duration) (OR′ = 0.769, 95% CI′ = 0.626–0.945, p′=0.013). The allele A at rs8078510 was associated with decreased risk of CAD (OR = 0.732, p=0.039). p=0.018 in subgroup analysis, individuals with higher BMI (≥24 kg/m2) had increased risk for CAD when carrying C/C at rs2291725 (OR′ = 1.291, 95% CI′ = 1.017–1.639, p′=0.036). In age < 55 men and age < 65 women, the carriers of allele C at rs2291725 had a higher risk of CAD than noncarriers (OR = 1.627, p=0.015). Carriers of allele G in rs8078510 had higher susceptibility to CAD (OR = 2.049, 95% = CI 1.213–3.463, p=0.007). p=0.004; in addition, allele G in rs8078510 would bring higher CAD risk to the carriers who ever smoked (OR = 1.695, 95% CI = 1.080–2.660, p=0.021). Conclusion. The genetic variability of GIP gene is associated with CAD and it may play a role in the premature CAD in the Chinese Han population with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficacious and convenient removal of organic dye contaminants from wastewater is a challenge for public health and ecosystem protection. Here we fabricate a novel type of Fe 3 O 4 @MOFs (Metal-organic frameworks) magnetic porous composite materials. ZIF-67 (Zeolitic imidazolate framework-67) nano-crystals as an attractive subfamily of MOF was selected to fabricate Fe 3 O 4 -PSS@ZIF-67 composites (defined as MZIF-67). MZIF-67 composites are core-shell structure, for which the aggregation core of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles is coated with petal-like ZIF-67 crystals, in which Co 2+ firstly combines with SO 3 2− provided by PSS (poly (styrenesulfonate, sodium salt)) to form nucleation. MZIF-67 composites perform well on methyl orange (MO) adsorption, which could be attributed to the highly porosity and the nature of Lewis base of coordinated Co 2+ centrals. The results show that the equilibrium adsorption capacity for MO is up to 738 mg·g −1 (when pH = 8.0, contact time is 7 h, adsorbent dose is 5 mg and initial MO concentration is 400 mg·L −1 ). In addition, MZIF-67 composites could selectively separate MO from the mixture solution of MO and MB (methylene blue). The removal rate of MO is up to 92%. The concentration ratio of MO/MB is 0.04. And the separation efficiency is up to 96%. The results suggest MZIF-67 composites could be a good candidate for treatment of dye-bearing wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four cyanostyryl-substituted carbazole derivatives (CN-ODEC1, CN-ODEC2, CN-DDEC1, and CN-DDEC) were synthesized and their self-assembly properties have been studied. It was found that they could form organogels especially in aromatic solvents. Scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy images show that the xerogels formed from monosubstituted derivatives (CN-O/DDEC1) gave well-organized tapes, and those from disubstituted derivatives (CN-O/DDEC2) exhibited heavy entangled three-dimensional structures. The UV–vis absorption and fluorescence emission spectra, as well as X-ray diffraction patterns, suggest that carbazole derivatives underwent J-type π-stacking. Meanwhile, we suggested that strong H-bonding and moderate π–π interactions were the key driving force for the gelation of the monosubstituted derivatives, and head-to-tail “ladder-type” J-aggregates were formed in the gel state. On the other hand, strong π–π interaction might be considered as the main driving force for the gelation of disubstituted derivatives, and J-aggregates with no well-organized packing mode of molecules were obtained in the gel phase. It should be noticed that aggregation-induced emission was observed during the gelation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New difluoroboron β-ketoiminate boron complexes bearing benzoxazole ( CBO ) and benzothiazole ( CBS ) have been synthesized. It was found that CBO was almost non-emissive in THF, and the emission could be intensified significantly when great amount of H 2 O was added, illustrating AIE (aggregation-induced emission) property. CBS could not show AIE property in THF/H 2 O system, but its emission in solid state was also strong. The single crystal structure of CBS suggested that π-π interactions and the hydrogen bonds of C(Ar)−F⋅⋅⋅H, C(Ar)−H⋅⋅⋅S and C(Ar)−H⋅⋅⋅Cl would suppress the rotation of single bonds, resulting into obvious emission enhancement. It is interesting that the as-synthesized crystals of CBO and CBS both emitted azure light, and the grinding made their emitting colors to change into cyan and green, which could be recovered under fuming with DCM or heating. The reversible mechanofluorochromism was due to the transformation between crystalline and amorphous states, which could be confirmed from the results of absorption spectra, XRD patterns and DSC curves in different solid states. Additionally, the high-contrast mechanofluorochromism of CBS compared with CBO might be originated from the loose packing in crystalline state and the better π-electron delocalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New β-diketone-boron difluoride complexes functionalized with tetraphenylethene ( TPEB , DTPEB and TTPEB ) which exhibit AIE (aggregation-induced emission) properties have been synthesized. It was found that only boomerang-shaped DTPEB without any traditional gelation groups could form organogel in specific organic solvents. It gave strong orange red fluorescence in organogel as well as in xerogel-based film although it was non-emissive in solution. It is interesting that the emission of DTPEB in xerogel-based film could be quenched significantly upon exposure to triethylamine (TEA) vapour, and the detection limit was as low as ca. 0.1 ppb. This work provides a strategy for the synthesis of a new rigid non-traditional π-gelator via the construction of a boomerang-shaped π-conjugated skeleton. In addition, the gelation of the π-gelators with AIE ability is a facile method for the fabrication of luminescent organic nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two push-pull compounds, which are comprised of triphenylamine (TPA) (electron donor units) and functionalized β-diketones difluorboron complexes (electron acceptor units) are probed by many spectroscopies, which offers the relationship between electron acceptor and the intrinsic excited state properties of push–pull chromophores. We found that the photoluminescence (PL) intensity would enhance with the number of electron acceptor. Transient absorption (TA) data shows that intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) process really exists in the two molecules after photoexcitation and this process would be prolonged through increasing the electron-acceptor, which would be responsible for the improvement of PL property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Metastasis is a leading cause of cancer-related-deaths worldwide. Recently, cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been believed to be responsible for tumor initiation and metastasis, but till now, difference of cellular features and behaviors between CSCs from tumor tissues (TCSCs) and circulation (CCSCs) remains largely unknown, which hinders the progression of targeted therapies for metastasis. Methods and Results: Here, we provide the features of circulating gastric cancer stem cells (CGCSCs) isolated from human gastric adenocarcinoma. The CGCSCs and TGCSCs were culture in a same serum free stem cell culture medium, however the morphology are different with each other. EMT-associated markers were measured by Immunofluorescence, Western Blotting, and RT-PCR methods, and the results indicated that the CGCSCs and TGCSCs carry different epithelial-mesenchymal features. And then, proliferation and apoptosis assays revealed that the CGCSCs exhibited characteristics of higher proliferation and resistance to apoptosis in vitro. Soft agar assay and nude mice tumorigenicity assay displayed strong tumorigenicity of CGCSCs. Finally, Matrigel invasion assays and in vivo experimental metastasis assay were also performed, which demonstrated that CGCSCs carry high invasive and metastatic capabilities than TGCSCs. Conclusions: As expected, the CGCSCs indeed showed extremely invasive and metastatic properties. They also exhibited distinctive mesenchymal phenotypes, high self-renewal, proliferative capabilities, tumor induction and low apoptosis. Interestingly, CGCSCs show small cell-size than TGCSCs (tissue gastric cancer stem cells). The findings might help us to understand the biological characteristic of CGCSCs deeply, and give light to strategies for cancer therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report interesting photomechanical behaviors of the dynamic molecular crystals of ( E)-2-(2,4-dichlorostyryl)benzo[d]oxazole ( BOACl24). The photosalient effect of the rod-like crystal based on a metal-free olefin driven by photodimerization is observed. Moreover, the needle-like crystals of BOACl24 exhibit a reversible bending away from a UV light source. The nanofibers curl easily under UV irradiation in an organogel, in which the photo-induced rolling of a small slice occurs. This suggests that the rapid release of the accumulated strain during photodimerization may lead to a photosalient effect, and the bending or curling happens when the strain is released slowly. Notably, [2+2] cycloaddition takes place between two different conformational isomers of BOACl24 on account of the rotation of the benzoxazole ring around the C−C bond in an excited state before photodimerization. Such topo-photochemical reaction has not been reported elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report interesting photomechanical behaviors of the dynamic molecular crystals of (E)-2-(2,4-dichlorostyryl)benzo[d]oxazole (BOACl24). The photosalient effect of the rod-like crystal based on a metal-free olefin driven by photodimerization is observed. Moreover, the needle-like crystals of BOACl24 exhibit a reversible bending away from a UV light source. The nanofibers curl easily under UV irradiation in an organogel, in which the photo-induced rolling of a small slice occurs. This suggests that the rapid release of the accumulated strain during photodimerization may lead to a photosalient effect, and the bending or curling happens when the strain is released slowly. Notably, [2+2] cycloaddition takes place between two different conformational isomers of BOACl24 on account of the rotation of the benzoxazole ring around the C−C bond in an excited state before photodimerization. Such topo-photochemical reaction has not been reported elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• RAN promoted the polarization of macrophages towards M1 by activating the PI3K/Akt2/NF-κB signaling pathway. • p-Akt2 can enhance the endocytosis of macrophages by regulating GSK3β/Dynamin1 pathway. • RAN as adjuvant could effectively increase the differentiation of Th1 cells after M1 polarization. • RAN could enhance the killing function of CTL to inhibit tumor growth and improve survival rate as adjuvant tumor vaccine. Adjuvants are an indispensable component of vaccines, but there are few adjuvants for human vaccines. H2 receptor blockers, inhibiting gastric acid secretion, have immune enhancement effects. Ranitidine (RAN) is a water-soluble H2 receptor blocker, and whether it has an immune-enhancing effect is still unknown. In this study, flow cytometry, western blotting, and immunofluorescence methods were used to analyze whether RAN could activate macrophage polarization to the M1 phenotype in vivo and in vitro. Here, we found that the M1 inflammatory cytokine levels and surface markers in RAW264.7 cells were upregulated by NF-κB activation, possibly through the PI3K-Akt2 signaling pathway, after RAN treatment. Endocytic function was also enhanced by feedback regulation of Akt2/GSK3β/Dynmin1 signaling. Furthermore, to evaluate the adjuvant function of RAN, we used OVA plus RAN as a vaccine to inhibit the growth of B16-OVA tumors in mice. We also found that in the RAN adjuvant group, macrophage polarization to M1, Th1 cell differentiation, and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activation were significantly upregulated. The tumor growth of mice was inhibited, and the survival rate of mice was significantly improved. This study provides new evidence for the mechanism by which RAN activates the immune response and is expected to provide a new strategy for the research and development of tumor vaccine adjuvants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An all-in-one MoS 2 -based electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution is constructed by inkjet printing. • Inkjet-printed 3D architecture contributes to the exposure of active catalytic sites. • 1T-MoS 2 surrounded by graphene reduces the charge-transfer impendence. • Cu contact supports the efficient electron injection from the electrode to catalytic materials. • The facile and scalable avenue allows the fabrication of electrocatalysts with high throughput. 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are emerging as promising alternative electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, key challenges are the limited density of available activity sites and poor electron accessibility. Herein, Cu film supported MoS 2 -based electrocatalyst with partial 1T phase and 3D architecture is constructed by inkjet printing. We aim to investigate if this configuration could provide largely exposed edge sites and enhance electron transfer for ultra-efficient hydrogen production. Towards this end, an ink containing few-layer MoS 2 nanosheets and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) is firstly prepared by liquid-phase exfoliation, in which semiconducting 2H-MoS 2 is partially transformed to metallic 1 T-MoS 2. We demonstrate that 1) nanosized few-layer MoS 2 spatially patterned by inkjet-printing provides sufficient active site exposure, 2) the 1T-MoS 2 and RGO conductive network reduce the charge-transfer impedance, and 3) the Cu support enhances the catalyst-electrode charge injection. Our all-in-one structure exhibits outstanding HER activities with low overpotential (51 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and 126 mV at 100 mA cm−2) and very low Tafel slope (32 mV dec-1). Also, the as-engineered electrode demonstrates ultrahigh cathodic current density. This work provides a facile, inexpensive, and scalable way for designing and fabricating TMDs-based electrocatalysts with excellent HER activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have synthesized a series of new β-iminoenolates and their corresponding difluoroboron complexes without any traditional gelation moieties, and some of them were able to gelatinize organic solvents. It was found that the presence of halogen atoms as substituents had a significant effect on gelation ability. In particular, bromo-containing compounds 4 A and 4 B exhibited excellent gelation abilities compared with other halogen-substituted gelators. By analyses of the single-crystal structure, the PXRD pattern of the xerogel, and electronic spectral changes during gelation, we deemed that π-π, C−H⋅⋅⋅F, and C−H⋅⋅⋅Br interactions were the driving forces for the gelation of 4 B. Interestingly, ( Z)-1-(4-bromophenyl)-2-(3-methylpyrazin-2-yl)ethen-1-ol ( 8 A), prepared in this work, is the lowest-molecular-weight organogelator to have been reported. It should be noted that although β-iminoenolates 3 A- 5 A are nonemissive in solution, they emit strong yellow light in organogels, which suggests aggregation-induced emissive activity, whereas the difluoroboron complexes 3 B- 5 B show strong fluorescence in solutions, organogels, and xerogel-based films. Moreover, we found that the emission of 4 B in a nanofiber-based film could be quenched significantly upon exposure to gaseous trifluoroacetic acid and that the decay time and detection limit were 0.5 s and 0.17 ppm, respectively. Thus, through this work we have provided a new strategy for the design of nontraditional π gelators by introducing halogen atoms into π-conjugated systems with moderate polarities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New carbazole modified salicylaldimine derivatives 1a–3a and their difluoroboron complexes 1b–3b were synthesized. It was found that 3a and 3b bearing both tert-butyl and trifluoromethyl could form stable gels in some organic solvents, while no gel could be formed from 1a–1b and 2a–2b without tert-butyl or trifluoromethyl, respectively. It suggested that both tert-butyl and trifluoromethyl played key roles in the gel formation because they could tune the solubility of the compounds and adjust the strength of intermolecular interactions. It should be noted that there is no traditional gelation moiety involved in gelators 3a and 3b. The main driving force for the gelation of such nontraditional π-gelators was π–π interaction. Meanwhile, aggregation-induced emission (AIE) was detected during the organogelation process of 3a, and the gel–sol transition took place upon adding F−. Interestingly, complexes 1b and 3b exhibited reversible piezofluorochromic (PFC) behaviors upon grinding/fuming, which originated from the transformation between crystalline and amorphous states. Herein, we provided a new strategy for designing new stimuli-responsive multifunctional soft materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New tert -butylcarbazole-based Schiff bases TPMP and TPMA , as well as the difluoroboron complex of salicylaldimine TPOB were synthesized. It was found that TPMP and TPMA without any traditional gelation group could form organogels in toluene and o -dichlorobenzene, etc., stimulated by ultrasound. It was suggested that the planar π-skeletons and the large steric effect of tert -butyl groups would lead to appropriate π-π interaction to induce the gel formation. Interestingly, the nanofibers formed from salicylaldimine derivative TPMP could emit strong yellowish green light under UV irradiation. It should be noted that the difluoroboron complex of TPOB with non-planar aromatic unit could not gelate the selected solvents on account of the weak π-π interaction. However, it showed reversible piezofluorochromism. The as-prepared crystal of TPOB emitted strong yellow light and could be transformed into the powders emitting orange red light after grinding, and the fluorescence could recover when the ground powders were heated. Such reversible changes of the emitting colors for TPOB by the treatment of grinding and heating was resulted from the transformation between crystalline and amorphous states. Herein, we provided the strategy for fabricating new nontraditional π-gels directed by appropriate π-π interaction and new piezofluorochromic dyes via the introduction of non-planar π-skeletons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• BAI treatment delayed the onset of EAE, alleviate clinical symptoms, demyelination and inflammatory cell infiltration. • BAI inhibited the overactivation of M1 microglia/macrophages in vivo and in vitro, significantly decreased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in M1 microglia/macrophages. • BAI has the binding ability to the SH2 domain of STAT1, and leaved P-STAT1 in the cytoplasm rather than transferred to the nucleus during inflammatory stimulation. Microglia/macrophage polarization modulation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS)/experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). M1 microglia/macrophages secrete a variety of cytokines that cause inflammation and facilitate demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS). Baicalein (5,6,7-trihydroxyflavone, C 15 H 10 O 5 , BAI), a natural flavonoid isolated from the roots of the traditional Chinese medicine Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, has been suggested to have a wide range of biological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. In this study, flow cytometry, Western blotting, immunofluorescence and other methods were used to investigate whether BAI could reduce the demyelination and inflammatory response of the spinal cord in EAE mice induced by MOG 35-55 and affect the polarization of spinal microglia/macrophages. Our results showed that BAI treatment delayed the onset of EAE and alleviated clinical symptoms, demyelination and inflammatory cell infiltration. Meanwhile, BAI inhibited the overactivation of M1 microglia/macrophages in vivo and in vitro, significantly decreased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in M1 microglia/macrophages, and inhibited the activation of STAT1. Subsequently, molecular docking, pull-down and immunofluorescence experiments confirmed that BAI has the ability to bind to the SH2 domain of STAT1 and that BAI colocalizes with p-STAT1 in the cytoplasm rather than being transferred to the nucleus during inflammatory stimulation. This study showed that BAI might inhibit the polarization of microglia/macrophages to the M1 phenotype in EAE mice by targeting STAT1. This new discovery lays a theoretical and experimental foundation for the clinical application of BAI in the treatment of MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Axially wrinkled SnO 2 /TiO 2 heteronanotubes have been successfully prepared by sacrificial template method combined with hydrothermal synthesis. The special folded morphology of SnO 2 /TiO 2 nanostructures may provide more active sites, and the S-scheme heterojunction between SnO 2 and TiO 2 enhances the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, which are conducive to the improvement of photocatalytic degradation for organic pollutants. Using SnO 2 /TiO 2 nanotubes as catalyst, the removal rate of Rhodamine B (RhB), methyl orange (MO) and tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) under the irradiation of a xenon lamp is 93%, 91% and 85%, respectively. After five cycles, the removal efficiency of organic pollutants maintains almost unchanged, indicating that the synthesized SnO 2 /TiO 2 nanotubes has good stability and reusability. In addition, trapping experiments have been carried out to investigate the major reactive oxidative species for organic pollutants photodegradation. This study provides a facile avenue to design nanotublar photocatalysts with enhanced degradation performance for organic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New difluoroboron β-diketonate complexes functionalized with tert -butyl carbazole and carbazole ( TCBM and CBM ) have been synthesized, and they give strong emission in solid states with the fluorescence quantum yields of 0.63 and 0.99, respectively. Reversible mechanofluorochromic behaviors of TCBM and CBM are realized upon the treatment of grinding/fuming with CH 2 Cl 2 . Interestingly, the emitting colors of the annealed samples gained from the ground powders of TCBM depend on the heating temperature, and change from orange to yellow, yellowish green, and green with increasing temperature. The X-ray diffraction patterns illustrate that the transformation processes from crystalline structure to partial destroyed crystalline structure, till to amorphous state lead to the multi-color solid-state luminescence during thermofluorochromism. We deduced that tert -butyl can lead to the incompact packing of luminophores, which is more sensitive to external stimuli, so that multi-color solid-state luminescence can be afforded during mechanofluorochromic and thermofluorochromic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New indolocarbazole derivatives have been synthesized via Cadogan reaction. It has been found that the reductive cyclization of 3-(2-nitrophenyl)carbazoles prefers to take place on 4-position instead of 2-position in carbazole rings. Because electrophilic substitution was one of the main steps in Cadogan reaction and the Fukui function analysis for 9-methyl-3-(2-nitrophenyl)-9 H -carbazole revealed that more positive part of f − ( r ) function was localized at 4-position than at 2-position in carbazole, the 4-position was the favorite reactive site for the reductive cyclization. Such regioselective Cadogan reaction would be useful for the synthesis of π-extended N -fused heteroacenes with desired functionalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An L-phenylalanine derivative ( C12PhBPCP) consisting of a strong emission fluorophore with benzoxazole and cyano groups is designed and synthesized to realize dual responses to volatile acid and organic amine vapors. The photophysical properties and self-assembly of the said derivative in the gel phase are also studied. C12PhBPCP can gelate organic solvents and self-assemble into 1 D nanofibers in the gels. UV/Vis absorption spectral results show H-aggregate formation during gelation, which indicates strong exciton coupling between fluorophores. Both wet gel and xerogel emit strong green fluorescence because the cyano group suppresses fluorescence quenching in the self-assemblies. Moreover, the xerogel film with strong green fluorescence can be used as a dual chemosensor for quantitative detection of volatile acid and organic amine vapors with fast response times and low detection limits owing to its large surface area and amplified fluorescence quenching. The detection limits are 796 ppt and 25 ppb for gaseous aniline and trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanofibers based on phenanthroimidazole derivatives PCC, PDC, and PSC were fabricated by organogelation processes, and their fluorescence sensory properties towards acid were investigated. It was found that the emission of PCC in the nanofiber-based film could be quenched significantly upon exposure to gaseous TFA due to the formation of protonated PCC, in which ICT (intramolecular charge transfer) would occur. On the other hand, TFA vapor led to the emitting colors of PDC and PSC in the nanofiber-based films to turn to yellow and green from sky blue and blue, respectively. Additionally, we found that the decay times of PCC were 0.1 s and 1.9 s in probing the saturated vapor of TFA in nanofiber-based film and in spin-coated film, respectively. The results suggested that the high surface-to-volume ratio and large interspace in the nanofiber-based networks favored the enhanced adsorption, accumulation, and diffusion of gaseous molecules, resulting in such a high performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To prepare colorless polyimides (CPIs), two novel diamines, namely 6-amino-2-(2′-methyl-4′-aminobenzene)-N-phenylbenzimidazol (5a) and 6-amino-2-(2′-trifluoromethyl-4′-aminobenzene)-N-phenylbenzimidazol (5b) were synthesized, and two series of polyimides derived from them were developed. Except for the inherent asymmetric structures, the twisted moieties had been successfully incorporated in the benzimidazole dianmines through 2′- and N-substituents. The loose chain packing and hindered charge transfer (CT) interaction caused by the askew and distorted segments provided the polyimides with excellent optical transparency (80% transmittance at 400 nm, semi-alicyclic series), while the resulting films inherited the unique superheat-resistance of poly(benzimidazole imide)s (PBIIs), e.g., high glass-transition temperatures (up to 402 °C). Such outstanding optical and thermal properties expanded their application as heat-resistant colorless materials. Furthermore, the correlation between various 2′-substituents and characters of these PBII films was systematically analyzed. These data indicated that these colorless polyimides had potential application as optical and optoelectronic materials. [Display omitted] • Two novel benzimidazole dianmines containing 2′- and N-substituents (5a and 5b) were successfully synthesized. • Polyimide films with asymmetric and twisted structures were successfully synthesized. • The semi-aromatic poly(benzimidazole imide) films achieved colorlessness (T 400 = 80–81% and T g = 394–402 °C). • The effect of various 2′-substitutions on the properties of these N-phenyl-poly(benzimidazole imide)s was investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

4-(Carbazol-9-yl)benzaldehyde could emit yellow RTP, which could last for 3 s because of efficient intersystem crossing. Moreover, multicolor luminescent switches could be realized by simply applying a mechanical force stimulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New triphenylvinyl substituted carbazole derivatives TPEICE , TPEC and TPECBr have been synthesized. They could self-assemble into nanofibers via organogelation processes in some organic solvents. Notably, the obtained xerogel-based films could emit strong fluorescence although the three compounds were non-emissive in solutions, indicating AIE in gel phases. The emission of TPEICE and TPEC in xerogel-based films could be quenched significantly upon exposed to gaseous DNT and TNT, while TPECBr could not sense nitro compounds on account of its poor electron donating ability. We also found that reversibility of the fluorescence response of TPEC was better than TPEICE because the photo-induced electron transfer would happen during the recognition of nitroaromatics for TPEICE and TPEC , except for the formation of charge–transfer complex between TPEICE and nitro compounds. Therefore, the different fluorescence response behaviors of TPEICE , TPEC and TPECBr towards nitroaromatics were resulted from their different electron donating abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New branched benzothiadiazole-cored conjugated oligomers with terminal carbazoles 1 and 2 have been synthesized. It was found that no obvious shifts of the maximal absorption bands for 1 and 2 were detected in the films compared with those in solutions, indicating weak π-π stacking occurred in the solid states on account of site isolation effect of the branched architectures. Hence, the synthesized oligomers could emit strong red light in the films. Notably, the emission of the films based on 1 and 2 could be quenched obviously upon exposed to gaseous TNT and DNT. The fluorescence quenching efficiency of the oligomer 2 -based film reached 91% when exposed to the saturated vapor of DNT for 3 min at 55 °C. The linear Stern–Volmer plot and the decrease of the fluorescence lifetime of 2 induced by DNT suggested the fluorescence sensing mechanism was due to the photo-induced electron transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The promoting effect of secondary phase particles on the refinement of matrix grains in a series of Mg–Y1.5–Nd0.6-Zn. x ( x =0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.3) alloys deformed by friction stir processing (FSP) was investigated in this study. The volume fraction of secondary phase in the alloys increased with increment of Zn, and most of the secondary phases were broken into nano-sized particles and dispersed in the matrix during thermal mechanical processing. The resulting fine particles had a remarkable promoting effect on the grain refinement of the Mg matrix during mechanical processing, thermal deformation, and cooling with increasing volume fraction of the secondary phase. For example, the grains of Mg–Y1.5–Nd0.6–Zn1.3 alloy were refined to an average size of 28 nm, compared with the more than 100 nm grain size of the Mg–Y1.5–Nd0.6 alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two L-phenylalanine derivatives with 5,8-bis(2-(carbazol-3-yl)vinyl)quinoxaline ( PCQ) and 5,8-bis[2-(carbazol-3-yl)]-2,3-dimethylquinoxaline ( DCQ) as fluorophores were synthesized, and their photophysical properties were measured and compared. The two compounds were found to gelate some organic solvents and self-assemble into 1D nanofibers in gels. The wet gel of PCQ emitted a weak orange fluorescence, but the DCQ gel had a strong green one. This result can be due to the presence of two methyl groups and the nonplanar conformation of fluorophore in DCQ. The gel film of DCQ also showed significantly stronger fluorescence than that of PCQ. Thus, the wet gel and xerogel film of DCQ were selected to study their sensing properties to acids. The yellow wet gel of DCQ transformed into a brown sol upon the addition of 0.2 equiv trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), accompanied by emission quenching. The xerogel film of DCQ rapidly responded to volatile acids, such as TFA, HCl, and HOAc. The fluorescence of the xerogel film was gradually quenched with increased concentration of volatile acid vapors. The fibrous film exhibited low detection limits for volatile acid. The detection limits of the thin films for TFA, HCl, and HOAc reached 43, 122, and 950 ppb, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-typhoidal Salmonella is a common cause of infectious diarrhea in humans. Antimicrobial-resistant Salmonella has become a global concern. Methods: Using laboratory-based surveillance system for Salmonella from September 2009 to December 2012 in Guangdong Province of China. The clinical information and samples of diarrhea patients were collected, according to the surveillance case definition. The lab tests were followed by standardized protocols, including sample isolation, isolates confirmation, serotyping, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). Results: A total of 1,826 Salmonella isolates were identified from 40,572 patients in 28 hospitals in 11 prefectures. The isolates ratio was highest in autumn (38.8%, 708/1826) and lowest in winter (6.4%, 117/1826). Children aged <5 years were the group most affected by Salmonella in Guangdong Province accounting for 73% (1,329/1,826), of whom the infants (<1 year) were 81.5% (1084/1329) especially. A total of 108 serotypes were identified among the isolates. S. Typhimurium represented the most common serotype followed by serotype 4,5,12:i:-. S. Typhimurium was also the common serotype followed by S. Enteritidis among infants and children aged 1-3 years old. However, S. Enteritidis became the common serotype followed by S. Typhimurium among children aged 3-5 and >5 years. Resistance to at least one antimicrobial was found in 72% (1321/1,826) of the isolates. Resistance to at least three antimicrobials was found in 46% (850/1,826) of the isolates. Resistance to all 12 antimicrobials screened was observed in 8 isolates (0.44%, 8/1,826). The resistant prevalence to quinolones including nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin was 61.9% (1131/1826), of which ciprofloxacin resistance rate was 8.05% (147/1826). The prevalence resistance to all three cephalosporin antimicrobials (cefepime, cefotaxime, and caftazidime) in <5 yr age group was accounted for 90% (89/99). Conclusions: Additional data and more refined methods can improve future surveillance. The invasive Salmonella isolates should also be included to the antibiotic resistance surveillance for clinical care or public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A benzoxazole derivative called BVDA was synthesized. BVDA exhibited an AIE effect although there was H-aggregated dimer in the crystal. According to the spectral results and crystal structure, the presence of excimer and the restriction of intramolecular rotation are responsible for the AIE phenomenon. Moreover, BVDA could respond to proton in solution and to volatile acid vapours in film. BVDA exhibited three colours because its binding sites to proton have different basicities. These binding sites can then be protonated in turn. These results indicate that AIE fluorophores with H-aggregated dimer is possible. Furthermore, these fluorophores can exhibit stimuli-responsive characteristics through the introduction of functional moieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simplest carbazole-based organogelator C1 (9-hexadecyl-9 H-carbazole) has been synthesized and can self-assemble into nanofibers in the gel phase directed by balanced π-π interactions. To extend the conjugation of the π gelator, we prepared linear carbazole-based trimer C3 and pentamer C5, which also exhibited gelation behavior in some organic solvents upon ultrasound stimulation. It is found that the xerogel of C3 emits strong blue light under UV irradiation. Notably, the emission of C3 in nanofiber-based films can be quenched upon exposure to vapors of TNT and DNT. The steady-state Stern-Volmer plots of C3 in toluene revealed that the fluorescent quenching induced by aromatic nitro compounds is due to photoinduced electron transfer. Therefore the emitting nanofibers fabricated from linear carbazole by organogelation can be used as fluorescent sensors to detect explosives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zebrafish Fish-egg lectin (zFEL) has been identified and proved to be a maternal factor with antibacterial and opsonic ability in fishes. In this study, we found that zFEL was capable of enhancing the phagocytosis of the bacteria by macrophages of mouse (RAW264.7 and mouse peritoneal macrophages), suggesting a cross-species function of zFEL in higher animals. Further studies showed that zFEL can active the antigen presentation ability by up-regulating the expression of CD80, CD86 and MHC II. Meanwhile, zFEL also promoted the polarization of macrophages to M1-type, which was confirmed by the increase of cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. The expression of p38 gene was up-regulated in macrophages preincubated with zFEL. Taken together, zFEL appears opsonic function in mammal macrophages and has potential application in immunomodulation. • Cross-species opsonic activity is found by zebrafish fish-egg lectin (zFEL) on mouse macrophages. • zFEL can up-regulate the expression of CD80, CD86 and MHC II on macrophages. • zFEL promotes the polarization of macrophages to M1-type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assembled a semi-automated reconstruction of L2/3 mouse primary visual cortex from ∼250 × 140 × 90 μm3 of electron microscopic images, including pyramidal and non-pyramidal neurons, astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes and precursors, pericytes, vasculature, nuclei, mitochondria, and synapses. Visual responses of a subset of pyramidal cells are included. The data are publicly available, along with tools for programmatic and three-dimensional interactive access. Brief vignettes illustrate the breadth of potential applications relating structure to function in cortical circuits and neuronal cell biology. Mitochondria and synapse organization are characterized as a function of path length from the soma. Pyramidal connectivity motif frequencies are predicted accurately using a configuration model of random graphs. Pyramidal cells receiving more connections from nearby cells exhibit stronger and more reliable visual responses. Sample code shows data access and analysis. [Display omitted] • A cortical reconstruction describes neuron connectivity, function, and cell biology • Pyramidal areal synapse density appears invariant with distance from the soma • Analysis of connectivity motifs reexamines "non-randomness" in cortical networks • Pyramidal cells with more local connections give stronger and more reliable responses Reconstruction of mouse visual cortex provides capacity for quantitative characterization of organelles, compartments, cells, circuits, and activity and their interrelations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, there are few studies in vivo to explore the effects of Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) single gene such as immediate early protein 2 (IE2) on the nervous system, let alone the mechanism that IE2 causes cognitive impairment. In this study, the Rosa26-LSL-IE2/Cre mouse was used to show the effects of IE2 on the cognitive ability and the GluNRs/CaMKIIα/CREB signaling pathway in the hippocampus. We divided the mice into experimental and control groups based on the results of PCR firstly. After that, the cognitive abilities of the two groups were compared through new object recognition (NOR) and Morris water maze (MWM) tests. The results of the behavioral tests showed that the cognitive ability of the experimental mice was lower than that of the control group. It is known that changes in the expression levels of N-methyl D -aspartate receptor 1, 2A, and 2B (GluN1, GluN2A, GluN2B) affect synaptic plasticity and cause cognitive changes. Finally, we analyzed the expression levels of GluN1, GluN2A, GluN2B, and related signaling pathway molecules by qPCR and western blot. We found that the expression levels of the GluNRs/CaMKIIα/CREB signaling pathway were decreased in the experimental group. These results indicated that IE2 could affect the expression levels of GluNRs/CaMKIIα/CREB signaling pathway, which was closely related to the cognitive impairment of the experimental group. In summary, we used this novel mouse model to show that IE2 could cause cognitive impairment in the hippocampus, which might be related to the GluNRs/CaMKIIα/CREB signaling pathway. It is helpful to further understand the mechanism of the cognitive impairment induced by HCMV IE2. • Human cytomegalovirus IE2 could be stably expressed and inherited in the hippocampus of the Rosa26-LSL-IE2/Cre mice. • HCMV IE2 destroyed the structure of hippocampus in the Rosa26-LSL-IE2/Cre mouse. • HCMV IE2 caused cognitive impairment in the hippocampus. • The cognitive impairment caused by IE2 might through the GluNRs/CaMKIIα/CREB signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A micromirror actuated by three piezoelectric microcantilevers is presented for optical data tracking of high-density storage application. The microcantilevers are actuated by 2.5-μm-thick lead zirconate titanate (PZT) films which are deposited on the silicon-based substrate by a compatible sol-gel route. The X-ray diffraction result shows that the PZT film is perovskite structure and has a typical good ferroelectric loop. The quasi-static displacement of the mirror plate increases linearly with increasing the driving voltage and the tracking resolution on disk is as high as 8 nm/V. The micromirror also provides a high bandwidth of about 21 kHz, which is high enough to support the optical data tracking of future high-density storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Synthesis of phenanthroimidazole derivatives with terminal carbazole or pyrene. [•] Photophysical properties of phenanthroimidazole derivatives. [•] Electroluminescent properties of phenanthroimidazole derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two new star-shaped difluoroboron β-diketonate complexes (TBC) 3 Ph and (TBF) 3 Ph, in which the terminal groups of triphenylamine functionalized difluoroboron β-diketonates were bridged by carbazole or fluorene to the core of 1,3,5-benzene, have been synthesized. It was found that they gave high molar extinction coefficients, meaning strong light-harvesting ability, and emitted intense yellow light with fluorescence quantum yields (Φ F) of 0.73 and 0.67 for (TBC) 3 Ph and (TBF) 3 Ph, respectively, in toluene as well as red light in solid states with Φ F of 0.36 and 0.27, respectively. The electrochemical behaviors suggested that they had considerably higher electron affinities than tris(8-hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (AlQ3), which indicated that they could be used as electron-transporting materials besides emitting materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Flesh firmness was measured instrumentally for each individual cherry. [•] Sensory panellists evaluated sweet cherry firmness using “Just-About-Right” methodology. [•] Sensory ratings were regressed against analytical firmness values. [•] The “acceptable” firmness range was 2.52–4.75N. [•] Cherries within this firmness range were acceptable by 73–92% of panellists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanostyrene-based D–π–A type conjugated compounds bearing triphenylamine units (G1, G1-N and G2) have been synthesized. By tuning the conjugated skeleton and the electron withdrawing ability of the acceptor, green, orange and red light emitters were achieved. It is interesting that although their emissions in solutions were weak, we observed strong emission in solid states. For example, the ΦF of the dendritic molecule G2 in powder reached 0.67, which was more than 20 times of that in THF. The single crystal X-ray diffraction data revealed that the intermolecular H-bonds of C–H…O, C–H…N and C–H…π led to the increased rigidity of the molecular skeleton, which would restrict the intramolecular rotation, yielding high ΦF in solid states. These AIE compounds may become candidates for emitting materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] 2,1,3-Benzothiadiazole-cored H-shaped conjugated compounds were synthesized. [•] Two-photon absorption (TPA) and two-photon induced emission properties were investigated. [•] These compounds emit red light excited by the femtosecond pulsed laser of 820nm. [•] Strong electron donor, enlarged conjugation and branched structure favored the increasing of TPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the photophysical characters of two oligofluorenes-functionalized anthracenes molecules with different fluorine-vinylene ( FV) units, which exhibits that 'excimer' state appears in the solution after photoexcitation. The dynamic data shows that two mechanisms are responsible for the generation of 'excimer'. The fast one is controlled by the arene-arene interaction between molecules and the slow one is influenced by the diffusion motion of molecules. Increasing the number of FV units may suppress the DM-dependent 'excimer' and enhance the yield of intrinsic fluorescence, which finally improves the fluorescence property of molecules in solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of π-spacer and electron donor groups on the photophysical behaviors of fluorenone-based linear conjugated oligomers have been systemically investigated. Solvent-dependent steady-state measurements exhibit that the fluorene vinylene ( FV) spacer and the electron-donating ability of donor group are able to modulate the spectral features of oligomers and the fluorescence quantum yield could decrease with the increasing of the solvent polarity. Meanwhile, quantum chemical calculation simulates their absorption spectra, and analyzes their electron transition components simultaneously. The transient absorption measurements focus on the photoexcitation dynamics of these oligomers in the toluene solution, which show that an intramolecular charge transfer state exists in the relaxation process of excited states, and its generation process could accelerate with the introduction of FV spacer and the enhancement of donor strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Two fluorine (F) based oligomers are synthesized and investigated in detail. [•] F units modulate the steady-state spectra of oligomers. [•] DFT calculations analyze molecular structure and the electronic transition. [•] F units increase the TPF efficiency and the TPA cross-section of oligomers. [•] F units shorten the lifetime of excited oligomers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recently, biomass-based materials have attracted increasing attention because of their advantages of low cost, environment-friendly and nonpollution. Herein, the feasibility of using corn stalk biomass fiber (CF) and Fe3O4 embedded chitosan (CS) as a novel biomass-based adsorbent (CFS) to remove chloramphenicol (CAPC) from aqueous solution. Structure of CFS was characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and zeta potential techniques. The effects of solution pH, adsorption time and ion strength on the adsorption capacity were examined. Adsorption isotherms obtained from batch experiments were better fitted by Langmuir model compared with Freundlich model, Dubinin–Radushkevich model and Temkin model. Adsorption kinetic data matched well to the pseudo-second order kinetic model. CAPC adsorption was endothermic, spontaneous, and entropy-increasing nature on CFS. In addition, the CFS could be separated by an external magnetic field, recycled, and reused without any significant loss in the adsorption capacity of CAPC. Based on these excellent performances, there is potential that CFS can be considered as a proficient and economically suitable material for the CAPC removal from the water environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A modified sol–gel method was used to synthesize single-crystalline lead-free (K,Na)NbO3 (KNN) nanorods. The effects of calcination temperature and heating rate on the crystal structure and morphology were examined. At low heating rate, it was found that with increasing calcination temperature, the crystallization of KNN gradually completed and the size of the one-dimensional rods increased significantly. On the other hand, increasing heating rate changed the morphology of KNN from one-dimensional rods to cubes. The as-synthesized KNN nanorods calcined at 750°C with heating rate of 1°C/min were determined to be orthorhombic single crystals of 100–400nm wide and 1–2μm long. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] π-Spacer dependent optical properties of fluorenone-based oligomers are studied. [•] Fluorene–ethylene (FE) spacer could modulate the steady-state spectra of oligomers. [•] DFT calculations confirm the ICT nature in the HOMO–LUMO transition. [•] FE spacer could increase the TPPL efficiency and TPA cross-section of oligomers. [•] TA measurement confirms the ICT state exists in the relaxation of excited oligomer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Tianhuashan Basin is one of the most important volcanic basins in the northern Wuyi, southeastern China, comprising two successive volcanic units, the Daguding Formation and the overlying Ehuling Formation, along with several small associated igneous intrusions. The Lengshuikeng super-large-scale Ag-Pb-Zn deposit, which is closely related to these volcanic-intrusive rocks, is located in the northwestern part of the basin. In order to understand the basin evolution and magmatism, we determined LA-ICP-MS U-Pb zircon ages for the volcanic successions and associated intrusive rocks. U-Pb zircon dating of volcanic units yielded precise ages of 144±1 Ma for crystal tuff in the lower member of the Daguding Formation, 142±1 Ma for andesite within the upper member of the Daguding Formation, 140±1 Ma for tuffite of the first (i.e., lowermost) member of the Ehuling Formation, and 137±1 Ma for rhyolitic ignimbrite within the third volcano-stratigraphic member of the Ehuling Formation. Three types of intrusive igneous rocks (quartz syenite porphyry, K-feldspar granite porphyry, and rhyolite porphyry) yielded precise weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages of 144±1, 140±1, and 140±1 Ma, respectively, suggesting that these intrusions along with the aforementioned volcanics were all emplaced during the Early Cretaceous. In addition, the weighted mean Pb/U ages determined on zircon from two samples of a granite porphyry intrusion, which hosts ore mineralization of the Lengshuikeng Ag-Pb-Zn deposit, are 158±1 and 157±1 Ma, indicating emplacement in the Late Jurassic. These new geochronological results for igneous rocks of the Tianhuashan Basin constrain the timing of volcanic and plutonic activity in the basin, and have important implications for our understanding the tectonic history of the region, and for identifying metallogenic types and the timing of ore deposition of the Lengshuikeng deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We compare the effects of fluorene–ethylene (FE) spacers on the photo-physical properties of fluorenone-based conjugated oligomers. The introduction of FE spacer could modulate the steady-state spectra and weaken the difference between donor-dependent spectral features. Meanwhile, the quantum chemical calculations exhibit that the electron transition mechanism modulated by FE unit is variable with the donor of oligomers. The FE π-spacer mainly rises the HOMO and facilitates the electron delocalization in the fluorene end-capped oligomer, while it lowers the LUMO and enhances the donor effect in the triphenylamine end-capped one. The time-resolved fluorescence measurement exhibits that the difference between donor-dependent excited state lifetimes of oligomers becomes less obvious after the introduction of FE units. Moreover, the nonlinear optical measurements show that the FE spacer is able to improve the two-photon fluorescence efficiency and enhance the two-photon absorption cross-section of oligomers simultaneously, but the difference in two-photon characteristics between oligomers with different donors is also decreased. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We systemically investigate the photophysical properties of two star-shaped truxene based oligomers with different oligo(fluorene-vinylene) arms (Tr-OFV1 and Tr-OFV3) in solution system. The chemical quantum calculation exhibits that the electronic transition depends on the number of fluorene-vinylene (FV) groups in oligomers. The transient absorption (TA) data exhibits that increasing of FV groups in branch arms could accelerate the relaxation of excited oligomers, and the intensity-dependent exciton–exciton annihilation behavior could appear in the relaxation process of excited Tr-OFV3 and disappear in that of Tr-OFV1, indicating that their photophysical behavior is also closed to the number of FV unit. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: New well-defined monodisperse oligocarbazoles-functionalized anthracenes An-OCZn (n =1, 2, 3) have been synthesized through Suzuki cross-coupling reaction of the brominated oligocarbazoles and 9,10-bis(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)anthracene. They show good solubility in organic solvents, including dichloromethane, chloroform, toluene, ethyl acetate, and tetrahydrofuran. It should be noted that, in the case of An-OCZn, the formation of the excimer based on anthracene unit is suppressed completely due to the introduction of oligocarbazoles in 9,10-position of anthracene so that an intense blue-emitting has been afforded. In addition, the obtained An-OCZn exhibit good electrochemical and thermal stabilities. Thus, the oligocarbazoles-functionalized anthracenes can be a class of promising candidates for novel blue-emitting materials employed in OLEDs or related devices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Three new donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) metal-free organic dyes, in which dendritic triphenylamine acts as donor, and furan, thiophene and benzene as π-linkers, were synthesized, characterized and used for the application of dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC). Among the fabricated DSSCs, the device based on the furan as π-linker exhibited a short circuit current density of 14.56 mA cm−2, an open circuit photo voltage of 0.71 V and a fill factor of 0.59, implying a power conversion efficiency (η) of 6.10%. The devices sensitized by dyes with thiophene and benzene as π-linker possessed relative lower η, 5.92% and 4.97%, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]