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Soft hydrogel nano- and micro-structures have great potential applications in the field of tissue engineering and chemical sensors. In this paper, a supramolecular hydrogel was constructed by combining a triblock copolymer poly(ethylene oxide)100-(propyleneoxide)70-(ethyleneoxide)100 ( PEO100-PPO70-PEO100 ) (Pluronic F127), mono-6-thio-β-cyclodextrins ( SH-β- CDs), and silver nanoparticles. Here, SH-β- CDs couple to the silver nanoparticles via thio groups and include PPO blocks of F127 using the hydrophobic cavity to form pseudo-polyrotaxanes. Moreover, the hydrogel can be transformed to a homogenous solution by the addition of hydrochloride powder. These results are important for research related to the construction of soft hydrogel materials and control their mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) of improved thermal stability against long-term aggregation were prepared using the polystyrene- b-poly(4-vinylpyridine)- b-polystyrene ( PS- b- P4VP- b- PS) triblock copolymer as a multidentate ligand. First, PS- b- P4VP- b- PS was synthesized by sequential reversible addition-fragmentation transfer ( RAFT) polymerization of styrene and 4-vinylpydine using a trithiocarbonate chain transfer agent (CTA). Then Ag NPs were obtained by in situ reduction of silver nitrate using PS- b- P4VP- b- PS as a multidentate ligand. The obtained Ag NPs were stable in solution for at least 24 h while being heated at 110°C. The effect of the molar ratio of N atoms of the P4VP chain segment and AgNO3 on the stability of Ag NPs was studied, and the results suggested that Ag NPs were very stable even if the molar ratio of N atoms of the P4VP chain segment and AgNO3 was very low. This method is promising to scale up the preparation of metal NPs with good dispersibility and thermal stability, which still remains challenging. To further improve its thermal stability, 1,4-dibromobutane was used to chemically crosslink the P4VP chain segment in solution. However, the results proved that the crosslink method is infeasible to further improve the thermal stability of Ag NPs in this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Redox-active polyelectrolyte-surfactant complexes (PSC) were prepared via the ionic self-assembly of sodium polyacrylate (PAAS) and ferrocenyl surfactant, n-alkyl (ferrocenylmethyl)ammonium bromide (Fcn, n = 8, 12, 16, where n is the carbon number of the alkyl chain), in solution. The obtained PAAS-Fcn complex exhibited crystalline and lamellar mesomorphous structure. Moreover, the ferrocenyl moieties formed H-aggregation in the solid complex as known from the blue shift in the ultraviolet-visible spectrum. Cyclic voltammogram (CV) measurements indicated that the reversibility of the electrode process became worse when the surfactant tail length increases because of the more ordered packing in the complex film formed by longer surfactant tails. The present results demonstrate that the electrochemical activity of the redox-active polyacrylate-ferrocenyl surfactant complex can be easily tuned by changing the surfactant tail length. Our work provides a simple and facile approach to the preparation of redox-active polymers with ordered mesomorphous structure by the ionic self-assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Well-defined highly branched comb-like polystyrenes (PS) having one branch in each repeating unit have been successfully synthesized by the coupling reaction of living PS anions with 1,1-diphenylethenyl (DPE) groups along PS backbone prepared via atom transfer radical polymerization. When excess polystyryllithium (PSLi) was used, the quantitative grafting efficiency was achieved. The resulting polymers were characterized by NMR, IR, GPC, and SLS in detail. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Redox stimulation at the molecular level has been the focus of many fields, especially in electrofluorochromic (EFC) devices with individually addressable pixels and switching function. In this study, the fluorescent molecule ((1E)-1-((4-(1,2,2-triphenylvinyl)benzylidene)-hydrazineylidene)ethyl)ferrocene (FcMe-TPE) with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties was synthesized and mixed with PVA to prepare an EFC hydrogel material (PVA/FcMe-TPE) with high conductivity. The obtained hydrogel exhibited reversible fluorescent switching behavior, which could be achieved by adding a redox agent alternately based on the redox properties of the FcMe-TPE molecule. The fluorescence intensity of the hydrogel increased by 700 times after adding oxidant and could almost return to the initial value by adding reductant. Interestingly, the effect of the oxidant could be replaced by applying a voltage and the hydrogel exhibited good EFC behaviors. When the voltage increased from 0 V to 1 V, the fluorescence intensity of the hydrogel gradually increased and reached the maximum value at 1 V. The obtained fluorescent hydrogels could be customized to different appearance according to needs, and the EFC devices with individually addressable pixels and switching function were fabricated successfully. Finally, by introducing phytic acid (PA), the mechanical strength of the PVA/FcMe-TPE hydrogel was greatly improved without affecting its EFC performance. This study provides a new idea and solution for the intelligent display field, such as advanced anti-counterfeiting and information encryption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface-active ILs [C16mim]Cl synthesized by combining imidazole group (C4H6N2) and 1-chlorohexadecane (C16H33Cl) was used as surfactant to prepare ILs microemulsions for sludge treatment. Meanwhile, the treatment conditions were optimized and the optimal conditions were obtained. Due to the strong interaction between ILs and asphaltenes as well as the solubilization of microemulsions, the residual oil rate of oily sludge decreased to 1.33%. The characterization of oily sludge was performed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and contact angle measurement. Results showed that [C16mim]Cl ILs microemulsions treatment could effectively promoted the desorption of asphaltenes from the surface of sludge solids, which provided a clear understanding of the mechanism for ILs microemulsions-enhanced oily sludge recovery. Oil in Water (O/W) microemulsions prepared using ionic liquids [C16mim]Cl as surfactants were used to the treatment of oily sludge with high removal oil rate (97.97%) and low residual oil rate (1.33%). Based on the strong interaction between [C16mim]Cl and asphaltenes as well as the solubilization effect of microemulsions, the use of ionic liquids microemulsions improves the effect of sludge treatment and realizes the effective recovery of crude oil, which has potential applications in the field of energy recovery and environmental protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, polyacrylic acid grafted lutein (PAA-g-lutein) was prepared by hydrophilic modification of lutein with polyacrylic acid (PAA) through Steglish esterification method. The unreacted lutein was loaded in micelles formed by self-assembly of graft copolymers in water to form composite nanoparticles. The bioaccessibility and bioavailability of lutein nanoparticles were studied by in vitro and in vivo digestion experiments. Compared with free lutein, the saturated solubility and bioaccessibility of lutein nanoparticles were increased by 78 times and 3.6 times, respectively. The pharmacokinetics results in the mice model showed that the maximum concentration (C max) and area under concentration-time curve (AUC) of plasma of mice were increased by 3.05 and 6.07 times with lutein nanoparticles compared with free lutein. Meanwhile, the prepared lutein nanoparticles also promoted the accumulation of lutein in the liver, mesenteric adipose, and eyeballs. These results indicate that graft copolymerization of lutein with water-soluble polymers to form nanoparticles is an effective method to promote the bioavailability of lutein in vivo. Moreover, this method is simple and applicable, and can also be used for the modification of other bioactive molecules. [Display omitted] • The graft copolymer was synthesized by hydrophilic modification of lutein with polyacrylic acid by esterification reaction. • Nanocomposite particles were prepared by graft copolymer loaded lutein for self-assembly. • In vitro simulated digestion experiments indicated that lutein nanoparticles promoted the saturation solubility and bioaccessibility of lutein. • The pharmacokinetics results in the mice model proved that the modification improved the bioavailability of lutein and sustained release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A white oil‐in‐water novel emulsion stabilized by TiO2 nanoparticles with UVB shielding properties and proanthocyanidins with antioxidant activity was prepared, where the proanthocyanidins aggregated at the oil‐water interface to reduce interfacial tension while TiO2 nanoparticles were dispersed in the continuous water phase to hinder droplet coalescence. It was found that the average oil droplet size was less than 10 μm and decreased with the increase of proanthocyanidins concentration, but the increase of the content of TiO2 nanoparticles had little effect on it. The combination of TiO2 nanoparticles and proanthocyanidins was versatile for oil phases with different polarities, and the resulting emulsion exhibited high stability in the face of centrifugation, heating and prolonging storage time. After encapsulating the UVA filter avobenzone in white oil, the emulsion was endowed with the ability to resist UVB and UVA. Further, the emulsion showed great free radical scavenging ability for superoxide anion radical (⋅O2−), hydroxyl radical (⋅OH) with the clearance rate of over 70 %, indicating the good antioxidant activity. The ingenious combination of UVB, UVA filter and antioxidant with emulsion as carrier provides a new idea for the preparation of full‐band sunscreen emulsion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report a novel redox responsive water-in-oil Pickering emulsion stabilized by negatively charged SiO2 nanoparticles hydrophobized with a trace amount of cationic surfactant 3-pyridyl-5-ferrocenyl-2-pyrazoline (PFP), in which ferrocene serves as a redox-sensitive group. The stability of Pickering emulsion can be modulated by adding oxidant and reducing agent alternatively, which leads to the change of amphiphilicity of SiO2 nanoparticles because of the adsorption of PF+P and desorption of PFP. This destabilization-stabilization behavior can be cycled at least three times, demonstrating that the Pickering emulsion is switchable. At the same time, polyacrylamide@SiO2-PF+P microspheres are prepared using Pickering emulsion as template, which can be used for the detection of Fe3+. Interestingly, when extremely small amounts of microspheres are placed in Fe3+ solution and left overnight, the limit of detection (LOD) decreases significantly because of the synergistic effect of enrichment and fluorescent probe for polyacrylamide and PF+P respectively. Moreover, the fluorescence intensity increased when EDTA was added to the solution containing microspheres and Fe3+, and a decrease of fluorescence intensity was observed when Fe3+ was added again, indicating that the composite microspheres could be reused. This work provides a promising way to construct novel fluorescent probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present works aims to develop bupivacaine modified reduced graphene oxide (BPV/RGO), and comparative evaluation of their anesthetic effect with free bupivacaine (BPV). The prepared BPV/RGO was studied by using various spectroscopic and microscopic characterization studies. In vitro drug release from BPV/RGO was studied using HPLC analysis. The cytotoxicity of BPV/RGO was studied against fibroblast (3T3) cells. In vivo evaluation of anesthetic effects was performed on animal models. BPV/RGO showed a prolonged in vitro release and lower cytotoxicity when compared to free BPV. Also, BPV/RGO showed a significantly prolonged analgesic effect when compared to free BPV. Further, the prepared BPV/RGO drug delivery system demonstrated to function as gifted to overcome the drawbacks of free BPV and other available drug delivery systems by prolonging the anesthetic effect with poor cytotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chitosan-g-polyethyleneimine-g-polyethylene glycol graft copolymer was synthesized for delivery of the immunomodulatory agent polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid and the mimetic antigen ovalbumin. The 1H-NMR results showed that polyethylene glycol was successfully grafted onto chitosan-g-polyethyleneimine copolymer by Schiff base reaction in a normal physiological environment (pH 7.4), while polyethylene glycol segments were detached from copolymer in a slightly acidic environment (pH 5.0). The results of cytotoxicity showed that graft copolymer with the modification degree of 47% had very low cytotoxicity, and the cell survival rate was above 95%. Nanoparticles of chitosan-g-polyethyleneimine-g-polyethylene glycol graft copolymer and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid with different negative/positive charge ratios were obtained by electrostatic self-assembly between graft copolymer, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid, and ovalbumin. The agarose gel electrophoresis results showed that polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid was well coated by the graft copolymer and protected from nuclease degradation. The performance study of nanoparticles results showed that their particle size with the negative/positive charge ratio of 40 : 1 was about 58 nm, which had the best solution stability, and the encapsulation efficiency of ovalbumin was ~50%, and it also significantly promoted the secretion of TNF-α and IFN-γ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We synthesized a novel surfactant, ferrocene azine (FcA), and developed a redox- and pH-responsive emulsion stabilized by TiO2 nanoparticles and oxidized ferrocene azine (Fc+A) with fluorescence through simple mixing instead of complex modification steps, where both Fc+A and TiO2 nanoparticles modified in situ by Fc+A adsorbed at the oil–water interface to synergistically stabilize emulsions. Based on the redox activity of ferrocenyl, the stability of the emulsion could be modulated. Moreover, the pH responsiveness of the emulsion was also endowed utilizing the generally ignored pH-controlled surface charge inversion of nanoparticles. This study proposes a synergistic stabilization interaction between surfactants and surfactant-modified nanoparticles with very low concentrations, which provides a new understanding for the stabilization mechanism of emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, telemedicine is a promising tool for providing clinical care for patients. Since the first-line treatment for infertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is lifestyle modification, a mobile-based service that provides lifestyle modification education would be helpful in the treatment of PCOS patients. In this observational study, the effect of a mobile Health (mHealth) application for lifestyle modification on PCOS patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment was evaluated. Methods: A total of 79 overweight/obese patients (40 in the paper group and 39 in the WeChat application group) with PCOS from the First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China were enrolled in the study. The changes in the outcomes of BMI and ART treatment were analyzed between the two groups. Results: After three months of intervention, the BMIs in the control and mHealth groups were 24.5 ± 3.3 and 23.7 ± 3.1, respectively. The percentage of patients who lost weight was higher in the WeChat group than in the control group (87.2% vs. 67.5%). Furthermore, PCOS patients in the WeChat group were found to have a higher live birth rate than those in the control group (p = 0.005). Conclusion: Lifestyle modifications for PCOS patients undergoing ART treatment using the WeChat application improved weight loss and oocyte quality. Infertile patients with PCOS were more likely to make lifestyle modifications based on the usage of mobile applications during the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PolyI:C is an immunomodulatory agent that can be used in immunotherapy, but its transportation in the body is hindered. In this study, a chitosan (CS)- graft -polyethyleneimine (PEI) copolymer (C- g -P) is prepared by an N , N ′-carbonyl diimidazole (CDI) coupling method as a drug carrier for PolyI:C and simulated antigen ovalbumin (OVA). The results of FT-IR, 1H NMR, elemental analysis and cytotoxicity studies show that PEI is successfully grafted onto CS, and a low cytotoxicity of C- g -P- x (x = 1, 2, 3) with different PEI grafting rates are obtained. C- g -P- x -PolyI:C/OVA (C- g -P- x -PO) (x = 1, 2, 3) nanoparticles are prepared by combining C- g -P- x (x = 1, 2, 3), PolyI:C and OVA by electrostatic self-assembly. The results of agarose gel electrophoresis show that PolyI:C is well coated by the graft copolymer and protected from nuclease degradation. The results show that C- g -P-1-PO nanoparticles with graft copolymer to PolyI:C (N/P) ratios of 80:1 have the best solution stability, and the OVA encapsulation efficiency is 60.6%. The nanoparticles also have a suitable size and regular shape to be absorbed by cells. In vitro immunoassay results show that PolyI:C and OVA-loaded nanoparticles promote the secretion of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interferon γ (IFN-γ). CS- g -PEI is a reliable drug carrier for the delivery of PolyI:C and OVA, and it also provides the possibility to carry other drugs. A chitosan- graft -polyethyleneimine copolymer (CS- g -PEI) was prepared by an N , N ′-carbonyl diimidazole (CDI) coupling method as a drug carrier for PolyI:C and simulated antigen ovalbumin (OVA). Nanoparticles of CS- g -PEI-PolyI:C/OVA with good solution stability, coating effect, immune characteristics and suitable size were prepared through electrostatic self-assembly. CS- g -PEI protected PolyI:C from nuclease degradation and is a reliable drug carrier for the delivery of PolyI:C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium based dual-ion batteries (SDIBs) recently garnered considerable interest for stationary energy storage due to their decent energy and power densities with low cost. However, the limiting factors in the application of SDIBs are their unsatisfactory cyclability and capability. Here, a flexible and free-standing Cl−-doped PPy/rGO film (Cl-PPy/rGO) was prepared and directly used as cathode electrodes in SDIBs. The Cl-PPy/rGO possesses a robust sandwich structure and consists of 3D rGO conductive network with dispersive Cl-PPy nanoparticles, which can facilitate electron and ion diffusion. Benefiting from the sandwich structure and the π-π interaction between PPy and rGO, the Cl-PPy/rGO shows superior electrochemical performances in SDIBs with sodium metal anode, especially high capacity (422 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1) and long-cycling stability (74% of capacity retention at 500 mA g−1 after 1000 cycles), as well as exhibiting remarkable reversible capacity (183.4 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1) for SDIBs with hard carbon anode. The ion storage mechanism of Cl-PPy/rGO was revealed by combination studies of cyclic voltammetry, ex-situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and ex-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This study not only provides a simple strategy to fabricate high performance cathode for SDIBs but reveals the ion storage mechanism of redox-active polymers. [Display omitted] • A free-standing Cl−-doped PPy/rGO film with 3D sandwich structure was prepared. • The free-standing Cl−-doped PPy/rGO film can be directly used as working electrodes. • The Cl−-doped PPy/rGO film is presented as a high-performance cathode for SDIBs. • The reaction mechanism is based on reversible doping/dedoping of anions (ClO 4 −). • The Cl− doping can promote charge transfer and redox reaction to improve capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lutein-b-methoxy polyethylene glycol (Lutein-b-mPEG) encapsulated lutein nanoemulsion was prepared. First, mercapto-terminated mPEG (mPEG-SH) was prepared. Then, vinyl-terminated lutein was prepared by the esterification reaction of lutein and allyl chloroformate. Finally, Lutein-b-mPEG was synthesized by the thiol-ene reaction of the vinyl-terminated intermediate and mPEG-SH. Lutein-b-mPEG was self-assembled in water to form spherical micelles, and the unreacted lutein was directly loaded in the micelles. The synthesis of the block copolymer and loading of unreacted lutein are completed in one pot. The results of IR, 1H NMR, GPC, and surface tension showed that the Lutein-b-mPEG was prepared. The TEM results showed that Lutein-b-mPEG loaded lutein self-assembled in water to form spherical micelles, and the average size is larger than that of Lutein-b-mPEG micelles. The chemical stability of lutein loaded by Lutein-b-mPEG micelles is greatly enhanced. Moreover, due to the water solubility and micellization of lutein, it is possible to greatly increase its bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our work, the fluorescent molecule ((1E)-1-((4-(1,2,2-triphenylvinyl)benzylide-ne)hydrazineylidene)ethyl)ferrocene (FcMe-TPE) with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) property and redox activity was synthesized. The fluorescence intensity of FcMe-TPE assembly could be modulated by changing solvent, adding oxidant or applying voltage. At the same time, the translation mechanism was explored in detail by means of density functional theory (DFT). [Display omitted] • The fluorescence behavior of FcMe-TPE could be modulated by changing solvent, adding oxidant or applying voltage. • A adjustable competitive hydrogen bonding interaction between methyl group, DMF and water was found. • The fluorescence translation mechanism was studied in detail by quantum chemistry calculation. • The assemblies of FcMe-TPE molecule were successfully used to make electrofluorochromic device with small trigger voltage. Stimuli-responsive supramolecular materials have attracted much attention because of their controllable microstructure and luminescence behavior. In this study, the fluorescent molecule ((1E)-1-((4-(1,2,2-triphenylvinyl)benzylidene)hydrazineylide-ne)ethyl)ferrocene (FcMe-TPE) with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) property and redox activity was synthesized. The morphology as well as fluorescence behavior could be modulated by changing solvent, adding oxidant or applying voltage, and the translation mechanism was explored in detail by means of density functional theory (DFT). Based on the presence of competitive hydrogen bonding, FcMe-TPE assemblies showed different aggregate behaviors and properties under different water contents (f w). As f w increased from 20% to 60%, the morphology of assemblies could be transformed from 2D sheet to elliptical crystal structure, then the precipitation gradually disappeared for the further increase of f w. At the same time, the addition of oxidant as well as the application of voltage could also cause changes in the fluorescence intensity of the assemblies. When the voltage increased from 0 V to 3 V, the fluorescence intensity increased and reached the maximum value at 1 V. Based on this property, the electrofluorochromic (EFC) device with low trigger voltage was made. This work provides a feasible strategy for controllable self-assembly and the fabrication of multiple fluorescence switches, which has potential practical application in the field of advanced anti-counterfeiting, intelligent display and information encryption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pickering emulsion stabilized by Fe3O4 nanoparticles and ferrocene derivates via the self-assembly route exhibited good stability and the stability can be modulated by redox and applying magnetic field. The Fe3O4 nanoparticles modified by oxided ferrocene derivates (Fc+H) were used as emulsifier to prepare Pickering emulsions. The structure and properties of the emulsifier particles and emulsions were characterized by contact angle analyzer, Zeta potential meter, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, X-ray diffraction analyzer and polarizing microscope. It was found that the conditions for obtaining stable emulsions were 41.0% molar percentage of Fc+H modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Moreover, the stability of emulsions can be modulated by redox and magnetic fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Propofol, a kind of intravenous sedative drug, is certified that exerts anti‐inflammation and antitumor functions. However, the influence of propofol in cerebral injury and the corresponding mechanism remains unexplained, that our article focuses on. Methods: PC12 cells were treated with propofol and exposed in glutamic acid (Glu) solutions. Cell viability, apoptotic potential, apoptosis‐related and autophagy‐linked proteins were tested via CCK‐8, flow cytometry, and western blot assays. Reverse transcription‐quantitative real‐time PCR was utilized to test miR‐19a expression in Glu‐stimulated cells. Next, miR‐19a mimic transfection was used to assess the effects of miR‐19a on cell apoptosis and autophagy in Glu or propofol treated cells. Finally, western blot was performed to test AMPK and mTOR pathways. Results: Glu exposure promoted cell apoptosis and autophagy of PC12 cells, while propofol attenuated cell apoptosis and autophagy triggered by Glu. Additionally, propofol decreased the miR‐19a expression in Glu‐stimulated PC12 cells. Meanwhile, over‐expression of miR‐19a reversed the effects of propofol on Glu‐induced cell apoptosis and autophagy. Moreover, propofol potentiated AMPK and mTOR pathways in Glu‐stimulated PC12 cells via impeding miR‐19a expression. Conclusions: These finding revealed that propofol relieved Glu‐triggered apoptosis and autophagy of PC12, and activated AMPK and mTOR pathways by suppressing miR‐19a expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract The photoelectric functional hierarchical materials were prepared by the simple ionic self-assembly strategy exhibits multiple stimuli-responsive switching behavior triggered by β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) inclusion, redox species, and pH. Abstract The photoelectric functional hierarchical materials have been successfully prepared by the simple ionic self-assembly (ISA) strategy from the cationic ferrocenyl surfactant, 16-alkyl (ferrocenyl-methyl)ammonium bromide (Fc16AB) and the anionic alizarin red (AR). The obtained complexes exhibited multiple stimuli-responsive switching behaviour triggered by β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) inclusion, redox species, and pH. The switching mechanism corresponding to each stimulus was studied in detail. Moreover, the fluorescent intensity of binary complexes could be modulated by the concentration of Fc16AB and redox of ferrocene part. The fluorescence switching mechanism upon redox stimulus was studied in detail. Both the complexes fabrication and transition mechanisms were found to be controlled by the inclusion equilibrium and the cooperative binding of noncovalent interactions, including the electrostatic interactions, π-π stacking, and amphiphilic hydrophobic association. This work provides a deep understanding of electro-photo molecular switching device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is a major obstacle to further development of membrane technology that membrane fouling occurs. In this study, a novel Fe 3 O 4 @UiO-66-NH 2 /PVDF-co-CTFE mixed matrix membrane was successfully developed by mixing Fe 3 O 4 @UiO-66-NH 2 nanoparticles (NPs) into PVDF-co-CTFE membrane through a simple non-solvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) method, and was used for degradation of organic wastewater. The results of the incorporated Fe 3 O 4 @UiO-66-NH 2 NPs content on the morphology, pore structure and physicochemical structure of samples were investigated systematically. The results indicated that the Fe 3 O 4 @UiO-66-NH 2 NPs addition in membrane matrix improved the permeability and significantly enhanced the anti-fouling performance. When 2 wt% Fe 3 O 4 @UiO-66-NH 2 NPs was added, the mixed matrix membrane had excellent comprehensive performance, maintaining a high pure water flux of 226.8 L m−2 h−1, the BSA rejection rate reached 95.9%, and the flux recovery rate was 71.38%. Importantly, the membrane possessed high catalytic performance based on the Fenton reaction mechanism, and the removal rate of 20 mg L−1 MB solution (400 mL) was up to 99.04%, and showed excellent self-cleaning characteristics and long-term stability. In conclusion, this study provided a new idea for the development of Fenton catalytic membranes with excellent anti-fouling performance for wastewater treatment in complex environments. [Display omitted] • Catalyst powder Fe 3 O 4 @UiO-66-NH 2 improved comprehensive performance of the PVDF-co-CTFE mixed matrix membrane. • Based on the Fenton reaction mechanism, the membrane had high catalytic performance. • Fe 3 O 4 @UiO-66-NH 2 /PVDF-co-CTFE mixed matrix membrane had excellent anti-fouling performance and self-cleaning characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple approach for the synthesis of Lidocaine-Ibuprofen ionic liquid stabilized silver nanoparticles (IL-AgNPs) was reported in this work. The shape, size and surface morphology of the Lidocaine-Ibuprofen ionic liquid stabilized AgNPs were characterized by using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques such as Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV–Visible), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Selected area electron diffraction (SAED), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM analysis showed the formation of 20–30 nm size of IL-AgNPs with very clear lattice fringes. SAED pattern confirmed the highly crystalline nature of fabricated IL stabilized AgNPs. EDS results confirmed the formation of nanosilver. The fabricated IL-AgNPs were studied for their local anesthetic effect in rats. The results of local anesthetic effect showed that the time for onset of action by IL-AgNPs is 10 min, which is significantly higher than that for EMLA. Further, tactile test results confirmed the stronger and faster local anesthetic effect of IL-AgNPs when compared to that of EMLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic self-assembly, the combination of the building blocks with opposite charge by electrostatic association, has many merits, such as simple, cheap and easy to get, flexible reversible and wide range of applications. In this paper, fibres were synthesized by combining surfactant N, N-dimethylferrocenylmethyl hexadecyl-ammonium bromide (Fc16AB) and fluorescent dye methyl orange (MO) using ionic self-assembly techniques. The morphology of self-assemblies with different concentration are measured and characterized by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show that the concentration of Fc16AB and MO has great effects on the morphology of obtained microfibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficiency and sustainability of catalytic thin-film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes are crucially important for the reverse-osmosis performance of thin film composite (TFC) membranes in many fields. Herein, Ag@UiO-66-NH 2 catalytic nanoparticles were fabricated and incorporated into the polyamide active layer through by covalent bond via the interfacial polymerization (IP) method. Polyamide TFN membranes with high efficiency, sustainable catalytic degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB), and excellent self-cleaning performance were prepared conveniently. The 0.8 wt % Ag@UiO-66-NH 2 composite membrane has excellent permeability stability, and the flux recovery rate can reach 81.6% after 7 runs. In addition, the degradation rate of RhB can reach 99.6% by using this membrane. More importantly, the degradation efficiency of 250 mL RhB solution can still reach 94.5% after 7 cycles of catalytic test. The degradation effect of RhB by the TFN membranes was enhanced significantly owing to the synergistic effect of the adsorption and catalytic properties of Ag@UiO-66-NH 2 nanoparticles. Moreover, it provides a universal method for preparing TFN membrane with a catalytic active layer, which can be applied in other fields of catalytic film by replacing Ag NPs with other particles. [Display omitted] • Polyamide TFN membrane containing Ag@UiO-66-NH 2 is prepared via interfacial polymerization method. • Ag@UiO-66-NH 2 nanoparticles are incorporated into the polyamide active layer through by covalent bond. • Catalyst powder Ag@UiO-66-NH 2 improves comprehensive performance of the polyamide TFN membrane. • Polyamide TFN membrane containing Ag@UiO-66-NH 2 exhibits excellent catalytic performance and cyclic stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fluorescent functional material with dual responsiveness was prepared by combining a cationic surfactant, ferrocene azine (FcA) and dye molecule Congo red (CR) via π-π stacking interaction at the oil-water interface. The resulting binary complex spontaneously organized into flower structure and exhibited double stimuli-response behavior triggered by redox species and pH value. The switching mechanism of aggregates was found to be controlled by the cooperative binding of noncovalent interactions, including π-π stacking and amphiphilic hydrophobic association. The self-assembly mechanism was studied in detail by quantum chemistry simulation. In addition, the aggregates could be used as fluorescent probe for detection of Cu2+. In the presence of Cu2+, the fluorescence enhancement was observed. This novel fluorescent probe based on interfacial self-assembly provides a new strategy for environmental monitoring. In our work, the complex was constructed by combining a cationic surfactant, ferrocene azine (FcA) and dye molecule Congo red (CR) via π-π stacking interaction at the oil-water interface, which exhibited double stimuli-responsive behaviors upon redox species and pH value. The self-assembly mechanism was studied in detail by quantum chemistry simulation. In addition, the aggregates could be used as fluorescent probe for detection of copper ions. This novel fluorescent probe based on interfacial self-assembly may provide a new strategy for environmental monitoring. [Display omitted] • The fluorescence assembly was constructed via π-π stacking interaction at the oil-water interface. • The assembly performed fluorescent responsiveness to redox and pH value. • The self-assembly mechanism was studied in detail by quantum chemistry simulation. • The aggregates could be used as fluorescent probe for detection of copper ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The supramolecular assembly was prepared by combining 16-alkyl (ferrocenyl-methyl) ammonium bromide (Fc16AB) and fluorescein sodium (FS) via the ionic self-assembly (ISA) strategy. The obtained Fc16AB-FS assembly performed multiple responsiveness and hierarchical fluorescence intensity to varied modulation, including redox and β-CD inclusion. The mechanisms of fluorescence quenching triggered by photo-induced electron transfer (PET) and fluorescence enhancement led by aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE) were analyzed in detail. At the same time, The Fc16AB-FS/SiO 2 nanoparticles prepared by water-in-oil reverse microemulsion method showed luminescence behaviors in solid state with fluorescence emission at 523 nm, which could be used to prepare fluorescent film to obtain white-luminescence by combining commercial blue LED. By combining ISA strategy with reverse microemulsion method, a novel synthesis method of fluorescent nanoparticles was presented, which broadened the application of template method in preparing fluorescence nanomaterials. The responsive fluorescence supramolecular assembly was constructed via ionic self-assembly strategy, which performed fluorescent responsiveness to redox and β-CD inclusion. And the novel fluorescence nanoparticles with luminescence in solid state were prepared by water-in-oil reverse microemulsion method. [Display omitted] • The fluorescent nano-assemblies with different morphology and property were constructed via ionic self-assembly strategy. • The fluorescent behavior of assembly could be modulated by the addition of oxidant and β-CD inclusion. • Fluorescent nanoparticles with luminescence in solid state were prepared by water-in-oil reverse microemulsion method. • Novel white-luminescence device were obtained by combining fluorescence nanoparticles with commercial blue LED. • The ionic self-assembly strategy was combined with microemulsion template method to prepare fluorescent nano-assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A light responsive toluene-in-water novel emulsion stabilized by positively charged TiO 2 nanoparticles combined with similarly charged dye molecules rhodamine B (RhB) at low concentrations is prepared. The novel emulsion can be destabilized under UV irradiation because of the degradation of RhB molecules aroused by anatase TiO 2 nanoparticles. The stabilization mechanism of light responsive novel emulsions was proposed. Further, the novel emulsions can be turned into a magnetic responsive Pickering emulsion by adding Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles, which can be driven close to each other by magnetic field without demulsification. This work provides a deep understanding for the regulation mechanism of novel emulsions upon UV irrigation and opens the new way for the transformation from novel emulsions to Pickering emulsions. In our work, a light responsive oil-in-water novel emulsion stabilized by similarly charged TiO 2 nanoparticles in combination with RhB molecules at low concentration was prepared. Under UV-irradiation, the emulsion could be destabilized due to the photodegradation of RhB molecules by high catalytic active species of TiO 2 nanoparticles. The direct contact of dye molecules with photocatalyst, high specific surface area of emulsion and the distribution of reactants and products in different phase improved the photodegradation rate significantly, which provided a promising application potential in wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 1D PPy@CNT is prepared via one-step in situ oxidative polymerization. • The nano PPy layer is uniformly coated on the surface of CNT framework. • 1D PPy@CNT is a novel cathode for potassium based double ion batteries. • The reaction mechanism is based on reversible doping/dedoping of anions (PF 6 −). Recently, potassium ion batteries (PIBs) have emerged as promising substitutes to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) for large-scale energy storages owing to the abundance of potassium. However, the large K+ causes phase transition and structural deterioration for traditional inorganic cathodes during K+ insertion/extraction. Compared with traditional inorganic cathodes, conductive polymers are particularly promising because their structural diversity and great tensile strength. Herein, the one-dimensional polypyrrole@carbon nanotube (1D PPy@CNT) was prepared via one-step in situ oxidative polymerization and investigated as a cathode for potassium based double ion batteries. The nano PPy layer is uniformly coated on the surface of CNT framework, in which CNT can facilitate the ion transport and electron transfer, and nano PPy layer can enrich active sites and ion storage. As expected, the 1D PPy@CNT delivers a high reversible capacity of 148 mAh g−1 with a capacity retention rate of 75.5% up to 200 cycles. The storage mechanism and reaction kinetics of 1D PPy@CNT are well explored by a combination of ex situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrochemical characterizations. The results of measurements suggest that the storage mechanism of PPy@CNT is based on reversible doping/dedoping of anions (PF 6 −). The present work indicates the potential of PPy as a promising high-performance cathode for potassium based double ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our work, Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles hydrophobically modified by positively charged oxidized ferrocene azine (Fc+A) via electrostatic interaction were used as an emulsifier to prepare Pickering emulsions. The emulsions can be reversibly modulated by redox and magnetic fields and can be used as a good extraction system with high extraction efficiency for rhodamine B. These easier and unique multi-response behaviors enrich the study of Pickering emulsion for intelligent control of emulsification/demulsification and adsorption dye field. In this paper, a redox and magnetic dual responsive toluene-in-water Pickering emulsion was stabilized by negatively charged Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles hydrophobically modified by positively charged oxidized ferrocene azine (Fc+A) via electrostatic interaction. The results showed that the adsorbed amount was 0.24 mmol/g and the molecular area was 0.27 nm2 for Fc+A at the Fe 3 O 4 particles surface, which was higher than that at air-water interface (0.21 nm2), implying the adsorption process was typical monolayer adsorption. Because of the adsorption and desorption of Fc+A on the Fe 3 O 4 particles surface, the Pickering emulsion prepared by Fc+A modified Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles could be reversibly switched between stable and unstable states by alternately adding reducing agent N 2 H 4 ·H 2 O and oxidant H 2 O 2. And approximately 80% of particles adsorbed at oil-water interface were returned to water phase after adding N 2 H 4 ·H 2 O into the emulsion. At the same time, the emulsion droplets could be close to each other by applying an external magnetic field without demulsification due to the super paramagnetic properties of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles, indicating the high stability and magnetic responsiveness of emulsion. Moreover, by applying an external magnetic field, Fc+A modified Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles stabilized Pickering emulsion was a good extraction system for purifying the aqueous solution contaminated by rhodamine B (RhB).The extraction efficiency (about 97.5 %) was attributed to the hydrophobicity, non-covalent interaction between RhB and Fc+A modified Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles, and the high specific surface area of emulsion droplets. After the adsorption, the emulsion droplets could be restored to the original emulsion by washing using magnetic field, which can be used to extract contaminated water again. That is to say, the redox and magnetic field dual-responsive Pickering emulsions can not only achieve demulsification/emulsification cycles by redox regulation, but also respond to magnetic field, which provides a promising way to construct functional Pickering emulsion in situ to adsorb dye molecules from aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 is prepared by a facile resorcinol–formaldehyde method. • Electrochemical property and reaction kinetic of H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 are explored. • H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 exhibits a single-phase reaction upon K+ insertion/extraction. • H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 //hard carbon full cell delivers 127.9 Wh kg−1 at 100 mA g−1. Potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) are regarded as a promising energy storage appliance for large-scale applications due to their abundant K reserves and fast K+ conductivity in electrolyte. However, the commercial production of PIBs is greatly hampered owing to the lack of stable cathode materials with high structural stability to accommodate insertion/extraction of large K ions. Here, novel hierarchical K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 microparticles (denoted as H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2) are designed and fabricated. When used as cathode materials for PIBs, the H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 exhibits a high reversible capacity (144.5 mAh g−1 at 20 mA g−1), fast rate capability (58.4 mAh g−1 at 400 mA g−1), and long cycling stability (a capacity retention of 82.5% after 400 cycles at 100 mA g−1). The storage mechanism and reaction kinetics are explored by a combination of ex situ X-ray diffraction analyses and electrochemical characterizations. The combination studies suggest that the superior performance of H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 can be attributed to the rational Mg doping and the unique hierarchical structure that leads to a single-phase reaction and fast K+ diffusion with low energy barriers during K+ insertion/extraction. Moreover, a K-ion full cell of H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 //hard carbon demonstrates a promising energy density of 127.9 Wh kg−1 at 100 mA g−1 with a decent capacity retention of 75% over 100 cycles. These results suggest the potential application of this novel low-cost H-K 0.7 Mn 0.7 Mg 0.3 O 2 as a high-performance cathode for PIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The switchable assembly was fabricated by ionic self-assembly strategy, the morphological alteration was triggered by β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) inclusion and oxidant. Furthermore, the supramolecular fluorescence switch exhibited quadruple fluorescence tiers. The supramolecular assembly with quadruple fluorescence switching behavior was fabricated by the complexation of cationic ferrocenyl surfactant, 16-alkyl (ferrocenyl-methyl) ammonium bromide (Fc16AB) and anionic dye molecule, Orange G (OG) via ionic self-assembly (ISA) strategy. The obtained micromaterials exhibited different morphologies (including rod-like fiber, spindle micelle and fiber bundle) and significant switchable fluorescence behavior triggered by the addition of Ce(SO 4) 2 and the formation of β-CD inclusion, which corresponded to "off" and "on" state of fluorescence behavior respectively. The mechanisms of fluorescence quenching and aggregation-induced emission enhancement caused by each modulation were discussed in detail. The assembly with quadruple switchable fluorescence will be meaningful in the application of multifunctional photoelectric devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was applied to investigate the stability of oil-in-water (O/W) Pickering emulsions prepared with negatively charged silica nanoparticles in combination with a trace amount of redox switchable fluorescent molecules, ferrocene azine (FcA). Electrical impedance values of emulsions obtained at different emulsification speeds were estimated according to the frequency response data with frequencies ranging from 1 MHz to 1 Hz. The equivalent circuit model of toluene-in-water emulsion was established by the resistor (RO/W) and capacitor (CO/W) in parallel connection. Nyquist diagrams for the emulsions prepared by toluene and water were characterized by the formation of one semi-circle. The droplet size distribution is one of the important factors that affect the stability of the emulsion, except for the volume fraction of water and oil, the size of stabilizing particles, etc. The average particle size of the emulsion droplets decreased as the emulsification speed increased, indicating the higher stability of the emulsion. It was found that the fitted impedance value RO/W of the emulsion decreased with decreasing particle size prepared at different emulsification speeds and storage time by performing real-time EIS detection techniques. The results suggested that EIS could be used to characterize the stability of a toluene-in-water emulsion stabilized by FcA modified silica nanoparticles. Moreover, based on the good electrochemical activity of the FcA molecule, the stability of the Pickering emulsion can be modulated by adding oxidant and reductant and detected by EIS in real-time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]