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The lanthanum sulfide γ-La 2 S 3 with cubic Th 3 P 4 structure has emerged as a promising long-wave infrared transparent material. However, the γ-La 2 S 3 is only stable at high temperatures (>1300 °C). In this work, a novel method to lower the stabilization temperature is reported. Bivalent Ba ions are incorporated into the La 2 S 3 crystal structure and the stabilization temperature of the γ-La 2 S 3 decreased to less than 850 °C. The Ba2+-doped γ-La 2 S 3 (γ-La 2 S 3 : Ba2+) was successfully developed using the coprecipitation reaction method and sulfidation with CS 2. The high phase purity, good thermal stability, and lowest oxide sulfide impurities were obtained by Ba/La = 0.1 (in mole, abbreviated as n Ba/La = 0.1). The first-principles calculation shows that the theoretical E g of the prepared γ-La 2 S 3 : Ba2+ was 2.94 eV, which matched well with the experimental data. The energy band structure and density of states of the synthesized γ-La 2 S 3 : Ba2+ powder indicated that it was an indirect semiconductor which could be employed as a raw material for preparing infrared transparent optical ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superhydrophobic surfaces have been extensively utilized due to their high hydrophobicity and anti-icing properties. Inspired by the shape of a cross flower, research has utilized circular arc curves and Bessel curves to design a cross flower structure model. Using 3D modeling software for modeling and 3D printing technology to prepare biomimetic microstructures in structural design. The structural shape of the microstructure before and after spray coating was detected using ultra depth of field and laser confocal microscopy. Using Ultra-Ever Dry as a low surface energy substance to alter the wettability of microstructure surfaces. Through surface wettability tests, droplet freezing, and droplet impact tests, the cross shaped biomimetic structure designed by the Bessel curve has a maximum droplet freezing time of 4193 s and a minimum droplet impact time of 9.81 ms. The experimental results indicate that the cross shaped biomimetic structure has good hydrophobicity and broad application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a chronic disease with a high recurrence rate, and the aim of treating CRS is to maintain disease control. Recently, a series of CRS control instruments have been developed to assess the control levels. We pooled existing studies to evaluate the percentage of controlled CRS after treatment in patients with CRS. Methods: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis using PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Cochrane databases was conducted to identify studies assessing CRS control. Both comprehensive assessments and self-report of CRS control were included. Results: 9 studies with 1931 patients after treatment and 295 patients before treatment were included. CRS control assessments of the 2012 European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps (EPOS 2012), EPOS 2020, and Sinus Control Test (SCT) were comprehensive assessments utilized in the clinic practice. The self-report assessment included patient-reported global level of CRS control. These existing disease control instruments categorized patients into three (uncontrolled, partly controlled, and controlled) or five (not at all, a little, somewhat, very, and completely) control categories. Only 8% (95% CI 0.05–0.11) of patients with CRS stayed well controlled before treatment assessed by comprehensive assessments. About 35% (95% CI 0.22–0.49) of patients achieved well controlled after treatment when assessed by the comprehensive measures. Meanwhile, 40% (95% CI 0.28–0.52) of patients reported well controlled after treatment when using self-report. Conclusion: About 35–40% of patients with CRS showed well controlled after treatment, which stressed the importance of identifying these undertreated patients with CRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zirconia (ZrO2) is a ceramic material with high-temperature resistance and good insulating properties. Herein, for the first time, the surface of ZrO2 was modified with docosanoic acid (DCA) to improve its self-cleaning and hydrophobic properties. This surface modification transformed the surface of ZrO2 from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic. A two-step spraying method was used to prepare the superhydrophobic surface of ZrO2 by sequentially applying a primer and a topcoat. The primer was a solution configured using an epoxy resin as the adhesive and polyamide as the curing agent, while the topcoat was a modified ZrO2 solution. The superhydrophobic surface of ZrO2 exhibited a contact angle of 154° and a sliding angle of 4°. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and other analytical techniques were used to characterize the prepared zirconia particles and their surfaces. Moreover, results from surface self-cleaning and droplet freezing tests showed that DCA-modified ZrO2 can be well combined, and its coatings show good self-cleaning and anti-icing properties on TA2 bases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: The precise diagnosis and treatment of cognitive impairment remains a major challenge in the field of schizophrenia (SCZ) research. Synaptic dysfunction and loss are thought to be closely related to the occurrence and development of SCZ and may be involved in cognitive dysfunction. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether neuronal pentraxins (NPTXs) plays a role in the etiology of SCZ and provide evidence of its possible therapeutic value a new target for drug development. Methods: We recruited 275 participants, of whom 148 were SCZ from psychiatric hospital and 127 healthy control (HC) subjects from communities. Plasma concentrations of NPTXs were measured in HC and SCZ at baseline and after 8 weeks of antipsychotic treatment. The MATRICS Cognitive Consensus Battery was used to evaluate cognitive function. Furthermore, the brain is parcellated into 246 subregions using the Brainnetome atlas, and we extracted regional white matter volumes from magnetic resonance images of the SCZ groups. Results: Plasma NPTX2 levels were significantly lower in SCZ compared with HC subjects, but were significantly raised in SCZ after 8 weeks of antipsychotic treatment compared to baseline. In addition, baseline plasma NPTX2 levels were positively correlated with cognitive performance. Conclusions: These findings indicate that NPTX2 may reveal novel aspects of disease etiology and act as a promising target for new drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous zinc (Zn) ions battery is promising for future large‐scale applications of energy storage due to the abundant reserves, high capacity of metallic Zn. However, dendritic growth, severe side reactions have limited the development of Zn‐metal anodes. A single skeleton structure or interface protection is difficult to simultaneously mitigate these issues. Here, a novel composite design based on the synergistic interaction between the hydrophobic host, the zincophilic interface is reported. On the one hand, the 3D substrate reduces the local current density, inhibits dendritic growth. On the other hand, the protective interface homogenizes the nucleation due to the formation of the ZnAu3 alloy layer. More importantly, the collaborative construction of the hydrophobicity, zincophilicity for the electrode alleviates the aggravated hydrogen evolution reaction (only 2.5 mmol h−1), simultaneously enables a low nucleation overpotential (31.7 mV) during cycling. Consequently, a high Coulombic efficiency of ≈98.25% after 300 cycles is harvested for the composite electrode. The pouch cells assembled by this anode, LiMn2O4 cathode maintain 82 mAh g−1 capacity retention after 140 cycles. This research shows an innovative Zn‐based structural design for aqueous Zn‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyzwitterionic hydrogel is an emerging material for solar‐driven water evaporation in saline environment due to its special anti‐polyelectrolyte effect, which is a promising approach to co‐generation of freshwater and electricity. However, the molecular impact on anti‐polyelectrolyte effect remains unclear, let alone to optimize the zwitterionic structure to promote water evaporation efficiency in high‐salinity brine. Herein, a molecularly engineered zwitterionic hydrogel is developed and the incorporated phenyl‐methylene‐imidazole motif greatly enhances the salt binding ability and strengthens anti‐polyelectrolyte effect, leading to boosted hydration, improved salt tolerance, ultra‐low evaporation enthalpy (almost half of traditional zwitterionic gel), and durable anti‐microbial ability in brine. Besides, gradient solar‐thermal network is penetrated to optimize water transport channel and heat confinement. The gel exhibits excellent evaporation rate of 3.17 kg m−2 h−1 in seawater, which is 1.6 times of that in water and such high efficiency could be maintained during 8 h continuous desalination, demonstrating outstanding salt tolerance. The high flux of ion stream can generate considerable voltage (321.3 mV) simultaneously. This work will bring new insights to the understanding of anti‐polyelectrolyte effect at molecular level and promote materials design for saline water evaporation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic Zinc (Zn) is considered as a remarkably promising anode for aqueous Zn‐ion batteries due to its high volumetric capacity and low redox potential. Unfortunately, dendritic growth and severe side reactions destabilizes the electrode/electrolyte interface, and ultimately reduce the electrochemical performance. Here, an artificial protective layer (APL) with a regulated ion and electron‐conducting interphase is constructed on the Zn‐metal anode to provide excellent interfacial stability in high‐rate cycling. The superior ionic and moderate electronic conductivity of the APL derives from the co‐embedding of MXene and Zn(CF3SO3)2 salts into the polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel, which enables a synergistic effect of local current density reduction during plating and ion transport acceleration during stripping for Zn anode. Furthermore, the high Young's modulus of the protective layer and dendrite‐free deposition morphology during cycling suppresses hydrogen evolution reactions (2.5 mmol h−1 cm−2) and passivation. As a result, in symmetrical cell tests, the modified battery presents a stable life of over 2000 cycles at ultra‐high current density of 20 mA cm−2. This research presents a new insight into the formation and regulation of stable electrode‐electrolyte interface for the Zn‐metal anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic Zinc (Zn) is considered as a remarkably promising anode for aqueous Zn‐ion batteries due to its high volumetric capacity and low redox potential. Unfortunately, dendritic growth and severe side reactions destabilizes the electrode/electrolyte interface, and ultimately reduce the electrochemical performance. Here, an artificial protective layer (APL) with a regulated ion and electron‐conducting interphase is constructed on the Zn‐metal anode to provide excellent interfacial stability in high‐rate cycling. The superior ionic and moderate electronic conductivity of the APL derives from the co‐embedding of MXene and Zn(CF3SO3)2 salts into the polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel, which enables a synergistic effect of local current density reduction during plating and ion transport acceleration during stripping for Zn anode. Furthermore, the high Young's modulus of the protective layer and dendrite‐free deposition morphology during cycling suppresses hydrogen evolution reactions (2.5 mmol h−1 cm−2) and passivation. As a result, in symmetrical cell tests, the modified battery presents a stable life of over 2000 cycles at ultra‐high current density of 20 mA cm−2. This research presents a new insight into the formation and regulation of stable electrode‐electrolyte interface for the Zn‐metal anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reactivation of astrocytes plays a critical role in spinal cord injury (SCI) repairment. In this study, IL1RAP expression has been found to be upregulated in SCI mice spinal cord, SCI astrocytes, and LPS-stimulated NHAs. Genes correlated with IL1RAP were significantly enriched in cell proliferation relative pathways. In LPS-stimulated NHAs, IL1RAP overexpression promoted NHA cell proliferation, decreased PTEN protein levels, and increased the phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR. IL1RAP overexpression promoted LPS-induced NHA activation and NF-κB signaling activation. Conditioned medium from IL1RAP-overexpressing NHAs inhibited SH-SY5Y cells viability but promoted cell apoptosis. Conclusively, IL1RAP knockdown in LPS-stimulated NHAs could partially suppress LPS-induced reactive astrogliosis, therefore promoting neuronal cell proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the fault diagnosis accuracy of rolling bearings is not high enough, and unknown faults cannot be correctly identified. A priority elimination (PE) method is proposed in this paper. First, the priority diagnosis sequence of faults was determined by comparing the ratios of the inter-class distance to the intra-class distance for all faults. Then, the model training and fault diagnosis were carried out in order of the priority sequence, and the samples of the fault that had been identified were eliminated from the data set until all faults were diagnosed. For the diagnosis model, the stacked sparse auto-encoder network (SSAE) was selected to extract the features of the vibration signal. The extreme gradient boosting algorithm (XGBoost) was chosen to identify the fault type. Finally, the method was tested and verified by experimental data and compared with classical algorithms. Research results indicate the following: (1) with the addition of PE based on SSAE-XGBoost, the fault diagnosis accuracy can be improved from 96.3% to 99.27%, which is higher than other methods; (2) for the test set with the samples of unknown faults, the diagnosis accuracy of SSAE-XGBoost with PE can reach 92.34%, which is nearly 6% higher than that without PE and is also obviously higher than other classical fault diagnosis methods with or without PE. The PE method can not only improve the diagnosis accuracy of faults but also identify unknown faults, which provides a new method and way for fault diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearables and bioelectronics rely on breathable interface devices with bioaffinity, biocompatibility, and smart functionality for interactions between beings and things and the surrounding environment. Elastic fibers/fabrics with mechanical adaptivity to various deformations and complex substrates, are promising to act as fillers, carriers, substrates, dressings, and scaffolds in the construction of biointerfaces for the human body, skins, organs, and plants, realizing functions such as energy exchange, sensing, perception, augmented virtuality, health monitoring, disease diagnosis, and intervention therapy. This review summarizes and highlights the latest breakthroughs of elastic fibers/fabrics for wearables and bioelectronics, aiming to offer insights into elasticity mechanisms, production methods, and electrical components integration strategies with fibers/fabrics, presenting a profile of elastic fibers/fabrics for energy management, sensors, e‐skins, thermal management, personal protection, wound healing, biosensing, and drug delivery. The trans‐disciplinary application of elastic fibers/fabrics from wearables to biomedicine provides important inspiration for technology transplantation and function integration to adapt different application systems. As a discussion platform, here the main challenges and possible solutions in the field are proposed, hopefully can provide guidance for promoting the development of elastic e‐textiles in consideration of the trade‐off between mechanical/electrical performance, industrial‐scale production, diverse environmental adaptivity, and multiscenario on‐spot applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing conductive underwater glue for fast sealing and in situ monitoring is critical for ocean exploration yet remains a challenge. The fluidity of glue is a double‐edged sword that is favorable for molecule spreading and formation of interlocking bonding network yet also leads to leakage of conductive ions. Herein, a polymeric glue possessing good conductivity and exhibiting rapid, strong, and long‐lasting underwater adhesion on diverse substrates at various harsh environments and extreme temperatures is developed. For molecular design, the nitrogen heterocyclic motif that prevails in biomolecular recognition is encoded with water‐resistant benzene block in one pendant group to serve as underwater binding sites; ionic liquids (ILs) of [EMIM][BF4] is employed as the solvent for fast water exchange that triggers rapid adhesion. Simultaneously, the polymer‐IL interaction is regulated, with the assistance of the theoretical calculations, to retain sufficient ILs within the adhesive for sensing. Finally, the glue is applied for underwater sealing and in situ monitoring various physical signals, while the fluorescent property is utilized for underwater labeling. This study should provide a new design strategy for the next‐generation of multifunctional underwater adhesives and promote their applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is the predominant type of thyroid cancer, with some patients experiencing relapse, distant metastases, or refractoriness, revealing limited treatment options. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified Natural Killer (NK) cells are revolutionary therapeutic agents effective against various resistant cancers. Thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) expression in DTC provides a unique tumor-specific target for CAR therapy. Here, we developed an innovative strategy for treating DTC using modified NK-92 cells armed with a TSHR-targeted CAR. The modified cells showed enhanced cytotoxicity against TSHR-positive DTC cell lines and exhibited elevated degranulation and cytokine release. After undergoing irradiation, the cells effectively halted their proliferative capacity while maintaining potent targeted killing ability. Transfer of these irradiation-treated cells into NSG mice with DTC tumors resulted in profound tumor suppression. NK-92 cells modified with TSHR-CAR offer a promising, off-the-shelf option for advancing DTC immunotherapy. • TSHR-CAR NK-92 cells were developed based on the TSHR expression maintained in the majority of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). • The TSHR-CAR NK-92 cells exhibited special cytotoxic against DTC expressing TSHR, demonstrating high efficacy. • The irradiated TSHR-CAR NK-92 cells lost proliferative capacity but retained their cytotoxic potential with safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (GEA) is an uncommon form of uterine cervical adenocarcinoma with an unfavorable prognosis. The tumor consists of glands exhibiting a morphological resemblance to gastric cells and occasionally manifests features akin to pancreaticobiliary mucinous adenocarcinoma. GEA differs from the typical cervical cancer, particularly in its lack of association with the human papillomavirus. Immunophenotypic analysis suggests intestinal differentiation. The present study reports two cases of GEA occurring in postmenopausal individuals who were diagnosed in Lishui Central Hospital (Lishui, China) between January 2015 and January 2023. Microscopic examination revealed cysts lined with mucinous cells within the tumors. Immunohistochemical assays confirmed the positivity of the tumors for cytokeratin 7, mucin (MUC)5AC, and mutant tumor protein p53, while the results were negative for tumor suppressor p16, and in one case for paired box protein 8, consistent with characteristics of mucinous adenocarcinoma originating from the gastrointestinal tract. Programmed death-ligand 1 expression was also negative. The proto-oncogene K-ras was identified using amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction. Both cases were negative for mutations in codons 12 and 13 of exon 2, codon 61 of exon 3 and codon 146 of exon 4, but were positive for wild-type K-ras. Clinical follow-up revealed a potential association between histopathological features and resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. The infrequency of this tumor type may contribute to diagnostic challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Viral infections are amongst the most prevalent diseases that pose a significant threat to human health. Targeting viral proteins or host factors represents two primary strategies for the development of antiviral drugs. In contrast to virus-targeting antivirals (VTAs), host-targeting antivirals (HTAs) offer advantages in terms of overcoming drug resistance and effectively combating a wide range of viruses, including newly emerging ones. Therefore, targeting host factors emerges as an extremely promising strategy with the potential to address critical challenges faced by VTAs. In recent years, extensive research has been conducted on the discovery and development of HTAs, leading to the approval of maraviroc, a chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5) antagonist used for the treatment of HIV-1 infected individuals, with several other potential treatments in various stages of development for different viral infections. This review systematically summarizes advancements made in medicinal chemistry regarding various host targets and classifies them into four distinct catagories based on their involvement in the viral life cycle: virus attachment and entry, biosynthesis, nuclear import and export, and viral release. [Display omitted] • Host-targeting antivirals offer promising prospects due to their broad-spectrum antiviral profiles and high genetic barrier against drug resistance. • This review systematically summarizes advancements made in medicinal chemistry regarding various host targets and classifies them into four different catagories based on the viral life cycle, namely virus attachment and entry, biosynthesis, nuclear import and export, viral assemble and release. • This review aims to provide insights for the development of the broad-spectrum antiviral drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superior lithophilicity for the 3D host is essential to enable both uniform molten lithium (Li) infusion during synthesis and a low Li nucleation barrier during cycling. The wetting behavior between the host surface and molten Li can be reasonably predicted by the typical Wenzel model. Herein, inspired by the model, a lotus‐leaf‐like carbon nanotube (CNT)/NiO spheres hybrid structure is employed to improve the wettability and regulate Li plating/stripping. First, the CNTs interweave to form a highly conductive and robust sponge with accelerated Li+ transport and reinforced stability. Second, the embedded NiO microspheres possess the Li‐active nature. More importantly, the surface roughness caused by nano‐sized protuberances over its surface further stronger the lithiophilicity. By the in situ optical microscope and calculations, this multistage structure is proven to homogenize the Li deposition and inhibit dendrite growth. As a result, the composite anode enables excellent cycling performance at both symmetric and full cells. This design of micro/nanostructured host provides a new perspective on the development of an excellent wettable host for Li‐metal anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Though circular RNAs, new non‐coding RNA classes have demonstrated that they have an essential role in the initiation as well as development of CRC (colorectal cancer), whereas in CRC the function and mechanism of hsa_circ_0001666 are less known. Methods: Hsa_circ_0001666 was identified by bioinformatics analysis of a circRNA microarray from the GEO database, and its expression in both CRC cell lines and tissues was analysed. A series of in vitro along with in vivo experiments were carried out for exploring the hsa_circ_0001666 functions, including transwell, wound healing, flow cytometry, colony formation, Edu, CCK‐8, soft agar colony formation, tumor xenografts and lung/liver metastasis in mice. RNA pull‐down, RIP (RNA immunoprecipitation), luciferase reporter assay, FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) and rescue experiments were used for determining the correlation among hsa_circ_0001666, miR‐576‐5p and PCDH10. Results: Hsa_circ_0001666 was downregulated in both CRC cell lines along with tumour tissues. A higher expression level of hsa_circ_0001666 indicated a better clinical prognosis in patients with CRC. Hsa_circ_0001666 knockdown significantly supported CRC cell proliferation along with invasion and inhibited cell apoptosis in vitro. Hsa_circ_0001666 knockdown accelerated the CRC growth and metastasis in vivo. Moreover, the mechanistic study showed that hsa_circ_0001666, acting as 'ceRNA' of miR‐576‐5p, prevented PCDH10 downregulation, as well as suppressed EMT and stemness of CRC cells, and the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. Inhibiting miR‐576‐5p or overexpressing PCDH10 could reverse phenotypic changes caused by knocking down of hsa_circ_0001666. Conclusions: Hsa_circ_0001666 suppresses CRC progression through the miR‐576‐5p/PCDH10 axis and may provide a new insight for the diagnosis and treatment of CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is highly associated with the progression and metastasis of various solid tumours. MAPK14, a core molecule of the MAPK pathway, plays vital roles in the colorectal cancer (CRC). Recent studies have shown that circRNAs can affect tumour progression by encoding peptides. However, little is known regarding the potential protein translated from circMAPK14 and whether it plays a role in the carcinogenesis of colorectal cancer. Methods: The RNA level and translatable potential of circMAPK14 in CRC was verified using qRT‐PCR and public databases. RNase R digestion assay, qRT‐PCR, sanger sequencing and FISH assays were utilised to verify the circular characteristics and subcellular localisation of circMAPK14. The suppressive role of circMAPK14 on the progression and metastasis of CRC was verified in vivo and in vitro. LC/MS analysis combined with western blotting demonstrated the presence and relative expression of circMAPK14‐175aa. The underlying mechanism of circMAPK14‐175aa action to inhibit CRC was identified by co‐IP analysis. The binding of U2AF2 within the flanking introns of circMAPK14 was evaluated by RNA pull‐down assay and RIP assay. Ultimately, luciferase reporter gene assays and ChIP assays confirmed that FOXC1 suppressed transcription of U2AF2 by binding to the U2AF2 promoter in the –400 bp to –100 bp region. Results: We identified that hsa_circ_0131663 (termed circMAPK14) showed significantly decreased expression level in cells and tissue samples of CRC, and was primarily localised in the cytoplasm. A series of function experiments demonstrated that circMAPK14 influenced CRC progression and metastasis by encoding a peptide of 175 amino acids (termed circMAPK14‐175aa). We also found that circMAPK14‐175aa reduced nuclear translocation of MAPK14 by competitively binding to MKK6, thus facilitating ubiquitin‐mediated degradation of FOXC1. Moreover, we described a positive feedback loop in CRC in which elevated FOXC1 expression was caused by reduced circMAPK14‐175aa expression. This, in turn, decreased circMAPK14 biogenesis by suppressing U2AF2 transcription. Conclusion: In summary, we reported for the first time that circMAPK14 functioned as a tumour‐suppressor by encoding circMAPK14‐175aa, which blocked the progression and metastasis of colorectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The room‐temperature (RT) Na/S battery is a promising energy storage system owing to suitable operating temperature, high theoretical energy density, and low cost. However, it has a poor cycle life and low reversible capacity. In this work, we report a long‐life RT‐Na/S battery with amorphous porous silica as a sulfur host. The sulfur is loaded into amorphous silica by a dipping method; the optimal sulfur loading is up to 73.48 wt %. Molecular dynamics simulation and first‐principles calculations suggest that the complex pores, acting as micro‐containers and the formation of Na‐O chemical bonds between amorphous silica and sodium polysulfide, give the electrodes a strong ability to inhibit sodium polysulfide shuttle. This would give rise to effectively avoiding the loss of active sulfur, corresponding to a superior capacity and an excellent cyclability even at 10 A gsulfur−1 (nearly 100 % coulomb efficiency and high reversible capacity of 955.8 mAh gsulfur−1 after 1460 cycles). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The room‐temperature (RT) Na/S battery is a promising energy storage system owing to suitable operating temperature, high theoretical energy density, and low cost. However, it has a poor cycle life and low reversible capacity. In this work, we report a long‐life RT‐Na/S battery with amorphous porous silica as a sulfur host. The sulfur is loaded into amorphous silica by a dipping method; the optimal sulfur loading is up to 73.48 wt %. Molecular dynamics simulation and first‐principles calculations suggest that the complex pores, acting as micro‐containers and the formation of Na‐O chemical bonds between amorphous silica and sodium polysulfide, give the electrodes a strong ability to inhibit sodium polysulfide shuttle. This would give rise to effectively avoiding the loss of active sulfur, corresponding to a superior capacity and an excellent cyclability even at 10 A gsulfur−1 (nearly 100 % coulomb efficiency and high reversible capacity of 955.8 mAh gsulfur−1 after 1460 cycles). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious neurological disease. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene (SNHG1) and microRNA-362-3p (miR-362-3p) were confirmed to be related to neurological disorders. However, it is unclear whether SNHG1 was involved in the development of SCI via regulating miR-362-3p. PC12 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to imitate the in vitro cell model of SCI. Cell ciability and apoptosis rate were detected by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry assay. The levels of SNHG1, miR-362-3p, and Janus kinase-2 (Jak2) were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA pull-down assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were performed to verify the interaction between miR-362-3p and SNHG1 or Jak2. Besides, the levels of apoptosis- and autophagy- related proteins were detected by western blot assay. In present research, LPS suppressed cell viability, and induced apoptosis and autophagy in PC12 cells. SNHG1 knockdown could affect cell viability, and suppress cell apoptosis and autophagy in LPS-treated PC12 cells. Moreover, miR-362-3p was a target of SNHG1, miR-362-3p targeted Jak2 and negatively regulated Jak2/stat3 pathway. Our data also demonstrated that SNHG1 depletion inactivated Jak2/stat3 pathway to affect cell viability and confine apoptosis, autophagy in LPS-treated PC12 cells. Taken together, SNHG1 regulated cell viability, apoptosis and autophagy in LPS-treated PC12 cells by activating Jak2/stat3 pathway via sponging miR-362-3p. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The influence mechanism of harmful impurities in copper concentrate on copper oxide is analyzed. • The minimum threshold for harmful impurities is between 0.1 wt% and 0.5 wt%. • The self-made copper oxide has a content above 99% and an extraction rate of over 97%. • The self-made CuO added with MgO and Al 2 O 3 can still react 97% after 250 cycles, and the reoxidation rate is still 96.3%. Copper oxide is a promising material for thermochemical heat storage, but its high cost remains a challenge for large-scale applications. To address this issue, we explore using relatively cheap copper concentrate as a starting material. We heat treat the concentrate and find that it mainly consists of CuO and CuFe 2 O 4. Our thermogravimetric analysis shows that the re-oxidation performance of the concentrate is poor, with only 12.5 % reaction, which is about 32.5 % lower than that of commercial copper oxide (≥99.5 %). Our investigation reveals that impurities in the concentrate inhibit the re-oxidation of copper oxide, and their removal is essential to improve performance. Based on these findings, we optimize the existing purification process that removes impurities to less than 0.1–0.5 wt%. The resulting copper oxide has a content above 99 % and an extraction rate of over 97 %, which can minimize the waste of raw materials and reduce the influence of impurities. The redox properties of the purified copper oxide are comparable to those of commercially available copper oxide. On this basis, the self-made CuO was modified by doping with cheap MgO and Al 2 O 3 , whose reduction conversion rate and reoxidation rate could still reach 97.0 % and 96.3 % after 250 redox cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peroxymonosulfate (PMS)-based advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have gained considerable attention for their efficient oxidation of persistent pollutants. A two-step chemical co-precipitation method was used to prepare a bimetallic nanocomposite (MnO x @Fe 3 O 4) consisting of manganese oxides and ferroferric oxides, supported by powdered activated carbon (PAC). The synthesis of MnO x @Fe 3 O 4 -PAC (MFP) was aimed to enhance the degradation efficiency of oxytetracycline (OTC) via the simultaneous adsorption and oxidation processes on the solid-liquid interface. The OTC degradation process in the MFP/PMS system could be well described by pseudo-first-order kinetics. A wide pH range (3–6) was acceptable for MFP to degrade OTC via PMS activation with the highest removal efficiency reaching up to 85.6% (OTC 0 = 150 mg/L), while a 60.8% removal efficiency of total organic carbon (TOC) was also attained simultaneously. SO 4 •− and 1O 2 , which were bound to the surface, played a crucial role as reactive oxygen species in the degradation of OTC. The combination of PAC, Fe 3 O 4 , and MnO x of MFP could enhance the degradation efficiency of OTC and fetch up their defects of separate application. The deduced OTC degradation pathway relied on the findings from UPLC-MS analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Noteworthy, MFP maintained efficient catalysis performance in the five cycles of stability experiment with neglectable loss of manganese and iron. These results provide valuable understanding of the conjunction of adsorption, radical, and nonradical processes driven by MFP for OTC degradation. • MnO x @Fe 3 O 4 -PAC (MFP) was successfully elaborated by two-step co-precipitation for PMS activation. • Rapid valence state transformation of Fe and Mn promoted the generation of ROS (SO 4 •− and 1O 2). • OTC degradation pathway was deduced based on UPLC-MS analysis coupling with DFT calculation. • Decent recyclability and stability were achieved for MFP in the catalytic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial strain WT00CT is an endophytic bacterium that was isolated from the tea plant (Camellia sinensis L.). The phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA genes demonstrated that strain WT00CT was a member of the genus Herbaspirillum. This strain is microaerobic, gram-negative and non-pigmented, and its cells are rod shaped, with a polar flagellum. It grew optimally at 34–37 °C, pH 5.0–8.0 and 0–1.5% NaCl (w/v). The G + C content of its genomic DNA was 62.36 mol%. C16:0, iso-C15:0, iso-C17:0, anteiso-C15:0 and anteiso-C17:0 were major fatty acids. The strain WT00CT contained six polar lipids, namely DPG (diphosphatidylglycerol), PE (phosphatidylethanolamine), PG (phosphatidylglycerol), PC (phosphatidylcholine), GL (glycolipid) and APL (aminophospholipids), and its respiratory quinone was Q8. The strain WT00CT had a genome size of 6.08 Mb with a total ORF of 5,537, in which one gene cluster (36 genes) encoding a type IV secretion system was absent in other members of the Herbaspirillum genus. ANI values of genomic comparison between the strain WT00CT and other Herbaspirillum species were 75–96%. Based on the phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic and phenotypic data presented here, the strain WT00CT represents a novel species in the Herbaspirillum genus, for which the name Herbaspirillum camelliae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of H. camelliae sp. nov. is WT00CT (AB 2018017 T and KCTC 62527 T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion and water transfer in subnanometer‐sized confined channels of hydrophilic microporous polymer membranes show enormous potential in tackling the ubiquitous trade‐off between permeability and selectivity for energy and environment‐related membrane technologies. To this end, a variety of hydrophilic polymers of intrinsic microporosity (HPIMs) have been developed. Herein, the synthetic strategies toward HPIMs are summarized, including post‐synthetic modification of polymers to introduce polar groups (e. g. amines, hydroxy groups, carboxylic acids, tetrazoles) or charged moieties (e. g. quaternary ammonium salts, sulfonic acids), and the polymerization of hydrophilic monomers. The advantages of HPIM membranes over others when employed in energy conversion and storage, acid gas capture and separation, ionic diodes, and ultrafiltration, are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) could cause mainly two types of pathological sequelae, the primary mechanical injury, and the secondary injury. The macrophage in SCI are skewed toward the M1 phenotype that might cause the failure to post-SCI repair.Methods: SCI model was established in Balb/c mice, and the changes in macrophage phenotypes after SCI were monitored. Bioinformatic analyses were performed to select factors that might regulate macrophage polarization after SCI. Mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were isolated, identified, and induced for M1 or M2 polarization; the effects of lncRNA guanylate binding protein-9 (lncGBP9) and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) on macrophages polarization were examined in vitro and in vivo. The predicted miR-34a binding to lncGBP9 and SOCS3 was validated; the dynamic effects of lncGBP9 and miR-34a on SOCS3, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1)/STAT6 signaling, and macrophage polarization were examined. Finally, we investigated whether STAT6 could bind the miR-34a promoter to activate its transcription.Results: In SCI Balb/c mice, macrophage skewing toward M1 phenotypes was observed after SCI. In M1 macrophages, lncGBP9 silencing significantly decreased p-STAT1 and SOCS3 expression and protein levels, as well as the production of Interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-12; in M2 macrophages, lncGBP9 overexpression increased SOCS3 mRNA expression and protein levels while suppressed p-STAT6 levels and the production of IL-10 and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), indicating that lncGBP9 overexpression promotes the M1 polarization of macrophages. In lncGBP9-silenced SCI mice, the M2 polarization was promoted on day 28 after the operation, further indicating that lncGBP9 silencing revised the predominance of M1 phenotype at the late stage of secondary injury after SCI, therefore improving the repair after SCI. IncGBP9 competed with SOCS3 for miR-34a binding to counteract miR-34a-mediated suppression on SOCS3 and then modulated STAT1/STAT6 signaling and the polarization of macrophages. STAT6 bound the promoter of miR-34a to activate its transcription.Conclusions: In macrophages, lncGBP9 sponges miR-34a to rescue SOCS3 expression, therefore modulating macrophage polarization through STAT1/STAT6 signaling. STAT6 bound the promoter of miR-34a to activate its transcription, thus forming two different regulatory loops to modulate the phenotype of macrophages after SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a kind of squamous cell carcinoma, occurs in the top and the side wall of nasopharyngeal, which harms human health and life. In this study, a novel blood test (SERS) was carried out for 30 NPC patients and 30 normal ones. Using multi‐variate statistical analysis for spectral data, the diagnostic sensitivities of 89.3% (50/56) and 85.7% (48/56) can be achieved for 633 and 785 nm exciting wavelength, respectively. Also corresponding specificities are 71.4% (41/56) and 78.6% (44/56), respectively. These results demonstrated that the two kinds of excitation wavelength all have the feasibility of obtaining high‐quality SERS spectra to differentiate cancer from normal samples. Furthermore, the performance of the SERS test with 785 nm wavelength excitation is nearly equal to the SERS experimental effect under 633 nm wavelength excitation for NPC detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zwitterionic Hydrogels In article number 2303272, Si Yu Zheng, Jimin Fu, Jintao Yang, and co‐workers design a polyzwitterionic hydrogel evaporator with an ultra‐strong anti‐polyelectrolyte effect, which exhibits high water uptake and low evaporation enthalpy in saline environments. Gradient‐distributed polypyrrole is penetrated to realize solar‐to‐thermal transition and heat confinement. These advantages contribute to the boosted seawater evaporation and co‐generation of freshwater and electricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-polyelectrolyte effects, electricity generation, polyzwitterionic hydrogels, salt resistance, solar desalination Keywords: anti-polyelectrolyte effects; electricity generation; polyzwitterionic hydrogels; salt resistance; solar desalination EN anti-polyelectrolyte effects electricity generation polyzwitterionic hydrogels salt resistance solar desalination 1 1 1 10/20/23 20231018 NES 231018 B Zwitterionic Hydrogels b In article number 2303272, Si Yu Zheng, Jimin Fu, Jintao Yang, and co-workers design a polyzwitterionic hydrogel evaporator with an ultra-strong anti-polyelectrolyte effect, which exhibits high water uptake and low evaporation enthalpy in saline environments. A Molecularly Engineered Zwitterionic Hydrogel with Strengthened Anti-Polyelectrolyte Effect: from High-Rate Solar Desalination to Efficient Electricity Generation (Adv. Funct. [Extracted from the article]

Considering serious pollution from the traditional chemical synthesis process, the resource-rich, clean electrode materials are greatly desired. Conventional electrochemical performance improvement methods, such as quantum dot or coating, are complicated and costly. In this study, CuFeS2 with an enhanced cycle performance is prepared from natural ore chalcopyrite through simple flotation and acid leaching. We obtain micro-sized CuFeS2 with high yield and purity. Electrochemical measurement shows that the natural chalcopyrite with an EDD-S electrolyte displays a high initial charge capacity (992 mAh·g−1 at the initial discharge current density of 0.2 C), an excellent rate performance, and good cycle property. The discharge capacities are approximately 870, 850, 830, 800, 750, and 680 mAh·g−1 at current densities of 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5, 1, and 2 C, respectively. When the current density is reduced back to 0.1 C, the reversible capacity can recover to 860 mAh·g−1, the cyclability is impressive (initial capacity of 700 mAh·g−1 and 660 mAh·g−1 maintained for 1000 cycles at a high current density of 2 C, corresponding to an excellent capacity retention of 94% after 1000 cycles). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Controllably grow metal sulfide WS 2 nanoflower arrays on the conductive Ni foam substrate. • Macroporous structure, high surface area, and short electron transport pathway. • High current density, low overpotential, and high durability. • WS 2 /Ni electrodes show a rather low overpotential of ∼0.119 V RHE at 10 mA cm−2. Abstract Mesoporous transition metal disulfide WS 2 are facilely grown on the Ni foam substrate with 3D nanoflowers morphology and large surface area. The as-obtained WS 2 /Ni exhibit high performances for water oxidation in 1.0 M NaOH solution, which are much superior to those of the state-of-the-art RuO 2 /Ni and previously reported oxygen evolution catalysts. The WS 2 /Ni electrocatalyst manifests the high performance, displaying a very low overpotential of 0.335 V at 20.0 mA cm−2 and much improved durability. The facile and controllable synthesis is promising for the rational design of electrocatalyst for the renewable energy conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estrogens and their metabolites (EMs) are involved in chronic liver disease and gut microbiota regulates estrogen metabolism, whereas the role of enterogenous EMs in liver disease is still elusive. Because of the extremely low level of EMs in portal serum and the EMs contain multiple pairs of isomers, an accurate determination of portal serum EMs is urgently needed. This study established a quantitative detection method for portal serum EMs and applied to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) related hepatic fibrosis mice model. The serum was derived with a novel derivatization reagent 4-acetyl aminobenzene sulfonyl chloride, and a UPLC-ESI-MS system was used for quantification of 15 EMs in 120 min. Compared with normal group, the concentrations of E1, E2 in model group were significantly decreased by 4–8 times, all the C2 and C4 substitution products (2-OHE1, 2-OHE2, 2-MeOE1, 4-OHE1, 4-MeOE1, 4-OHE2, 4-MeOE2, 2-MeOE2) were significantly decreased by 2–22 times. However, the C16 and C17 substitution products (E3, 16-epiE3, 17-epiE3, 16-ketoE2) levels were increased by 3–5 times (P < 0.01). This study elucidated the changes of enterogenous EMs which entered the liver via portal vein in NAFLD - related hepatic fibrosis and provided methodological platform for other related studies on estrogen metabolism. [Display omitted] • Established an high efficient and reproducible UPLC-ESI-MS method for simultaneous detection of 15 estrogen and its metabolites in portal veins. • Using a novel derivatization reagent 4-acetyl aminobenzene sulfonyl chloride to improve the mass spectrum response. • With this targeted detection platform for EMs, this paper firstly elucidated the changes of enterogenous EMs which entered the liver via portal vein in NAFLD. • As a platform for EMs detection, this paper provided methodological convenience for other related studies on estrogen metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study contains 2 arms: (1) the ASIR-V technique combined with low-tube-voltage in lower limb deep vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis was investigated; and (2) CT venography and ultrasound results in DVT diagnosis were compared. For arm 1, 90 patients suspected of DVT were randomly divided into 3 groups (30/group): groups A and B were scanned under 100-kV with pre-set ASIR-V weights of 30% and 50% respectively; group C were scanned under 70-kV with a 50% weight. For arm 2, 75 patients were divided into 3 groups (25/group), each group was CT scanned as in arm 1 and then all subjects were examined by ultrasound. Groups A, B and C had 16, 14 and 17 patients diagnosed with DVTs, respectively. There was no significant difference in subjective ratings of image quality among all groups. The 70-kV protocol remarkably increased venous attenuation value while all groups had similar DVT attenuation value. Higher noise was observed in group C, the CNR however, was actually augmented due to elevated venous attenuations. More importantly, group C had significantly lower CTDIvol and DLP values. In conclusion, the 70-kV protocol is superior to the 100 kV protocols, which was supported by findings from the second arm study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Recently, much attention has been paid to the plant-mediated effects of aboveground herbivory on soil ecosystems. However, studies about the herbivore-induced effects of invasive plants on soil ecosystem are still lacking. In this study, we aimed to examine the soil biota and nutrient availability to an invasive plant under aboveground herbivory stress, and compare the soil responses with a native plant. Methods: We subjected an invasive plant ( Spartina alterniflora) and a native plant ( Phragmites australis) to herbivory by caterpillars of native moth Laelia coenosa, and measured soil microbes, nematodes, inorganic nitrogen (N), plant biomass and N content. Results: Soil microbial biomass, nematode abundance, ammonium N concentrations and N mineralization rates were significantly stimulated by herbivory of the invasive S. alterniflora. Besides, the stimulation of bacteria: fungi ratio, abundance of bacterivorous nematodes, and ammonium N availability were significantly higher for S. alterniflora than for P. australis. Conclusions: In general, aboveground insect herbivory of the invasive S. alterniflora enhanced the abundance of soil biota, and the soil N availability. The greater soil responses associated with S. alterniflora suggest stronger positive soil feedback than those with the native P. australis, which might facilitate the invasive plant to successfully invade its new range under biotic stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: bioinspired adhesives; coacervates; ionic liquids; underwater adhesion; underwater signal transmission EN bioinspired adhesives coacervates ionic liquids underwater adhesion underwater signal transmission 1 1 1 11/01/22 20221026 NES 221026 B Underwater Adhesives b In article number 2205597, Si Yu Zheng, Jimin Fu, Jintao Yang, and co-workers design a polymeric glue based on triazole-beared macromolecules and ionic liquids, which can flow freely to fill the crack with various morphology and solidify rapidly to achieve fast, robust, long-lasting adhesion under seawater. Water-Triggered Spontaneously Solidified Adhesive: From Instant and Strong Underwater Adhesion to In Situ Signal Transmission (Adv. Funct. Bioinspired adhesives, coacervates, ionic liquids, underwater adhesion, underwater signal transmission. [Extracted from the article]

[Display omitted] • Fe 3 O 4 doped powdered activated charcoal was synthesized by co-precipitation. • Efficient degradation of tetracycline was achieved over a wide range of pH. • Surface-bound SO 4 •− and 1O 2 were the predominant ROS in the catalytic system. • Toxicity of the wastewater was efficiently reduced after PMS activation process. • The catalyst showed a decent recyclability and catalytic stability. Iron-mediated activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) has long been of a great interest for the effective oxidation of micropollutants. In this study, ferroferric oxide doped powdered activated charcoal (PAC) was prepared by a chemical co-precipitation method in which abundant ferroferric oxide nanocatalyst (FONC) were immobilized on the PAC. The catalyst (FONC@PAC) enabled an efficient degradation of tetracycline via activation of PMS over a wide range of pH and the removal efficiency could reach up to 86.9%. It was verified that the surface-bound SO 4 •− and 1O 2 were the predominant reactive oxygen species in the catalytic process. A possible degradation pathway of TC was deduced and the toxicity of treated wastewater was drastically reduced after the catalytic degradation. Meanwhile, the catalyst demonstrated a decent degradation performance even after four recycles and suffered from little iron loss. The novel catalyst demonstrated its great potential for the removal of antibiotics in the wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory syncytial virus ( RSV) is the most frequent cause of hospitalization in infants worldwide. It is recognized by Toll-like receptor 4 ( TLR 4) and cluster of differentiation 14 ( CD14) in the innate immune response. Previous case-control studies reported the influence of TLR4 Asp299Gly, TLR4 Thr399Ile, and CD14 C-159T polymorphisms on the risk of severe RSV infection. However, a decisive conclusion has not been achieved. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to examine the association between these three polymorphisms and the development of RSV bronchiolitis. A systematic literature search was performed using the PubMed, EMbase, Google Scholar Search, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biological Medicine, and Wanfang Databases. The data were extracted and pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated under six genetic models. A total of six studies with 1009 cases and 1348 controls, three studies with 473 cases and 481 controls, or four studies with 325 cases and 650 controls relating to each of the three polymorphisms were included in this meta-analysis. The analyzed data indicated that all of these polymorphisms were not associated with the risk of severe RSV infection. This is the first meta-analysis to investigate the relationship of TLR4 Asp299Gly, TLR4 Thr399Ile, and CD14 C-159T polymorphisms with the risk of severe RSV infection. Although the results of this retrospective analysis indicated a lack of the association, more extensive multicentric studies with large sample sizes are necessary to provide a more reliable estimation of the association between these three polymorphisms and RSV bronchiolitis susceptibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiO 2 hierarchical nanomaterials have been intensively investigated as a very promising photoanode in photoelectrochemical water splitting due to its combined effects of large surface area and fast electron transfer. However, the TiO 2 hierarchical nanostructures prepared by most prevailing synthesis methods currently are at distinct disadvantages such as complicated process, poor controllability, poor interfacial contact, excessive impurities and so on. Here we report a facile route to construct a well-defined TiO 2 hierarchical nanostructure via in-situ transformation of TiO 2 nanoparticles with highly exposed {001} facets in the tube wall of the pristine TiO 2 nanotube arrays. The resulted TiO 2 hierarchical nanostructures exhibit enhanced light harvesting, lowe recombination rate of photo-generated charger carrier. Upon these synergistic effects, the target hierarchical nanostructure shows significantly improved PEC performance and excellent photo-switching response with good reproducibility and stability. Corresponding photocurrent density and photon-to-current efficiency achieve 0.76 mA cm−2 and 0.50%, respectively, which show an enhancement of 1.70 and 1.32 times to those of the control one. This work provides a possible route for fabrication of TiO 2 starting materials with decent efficiencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibers and textiles are attractive substrates for constructing wearables, the devices rely on conductive fibers with good stretchability to realize electrical conductivity and mechanical adaptivity. The exploitation of stretchable composite conductive fibers (SCCFs) requires diverse strategies in material options and process methods, tackling the challenge in balancing electrical and mechanical properties for ultrafine fiber, which highly determine the properties and applications. In this article, first the working mechanism and advantages of the SCCFs in wearables is introduced. Second, different conductive fillers as well as their respective incorporation strategies and performance superiorities in fabricating SCCFs are systematically summarized. Third, the integration routes of the conductive fillers in SCCFs are indicated and compared, presenting different fabrication strategies and mechanisms for improving the performance of SCCFs. Thereafter, the typical applications of SCCFs in energy management, sensing, actuators, heaters, and displays are highlighted. Accordingly, the main challenges of SCCFs for wearable applications are indicated, and the possible solutions for challenges tackling are proposed. This review prepared aims to highlight the importance of SCCFs in wearables, and provides insights in terms of mechanism, materials, fabrication, and performance improvement, paving a referable way to promote the innovative exploitation and development of SCCFs, extending the application scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surfactants have long been underestimated in synthetic organic chemistry despite their great potential in promoting solubility, reactivity and selectivity in metal-mediated cross-couplings. In this study the strategy of surfactant promotion was exemplified in copper-catalyzed N-arylation of indoles in water. The different effects of surfactants during the coupling reaction were first explored. The superior promoting effect of the natural zwitterionic surfactant, betaine, was found and attributed to the capability of the formed complex to stabilize the copper intermediate in the catalytic transformation and facilitate transportation of the reactants. The concept of surfactant promotion through complexation is valuable in metal-mediated cross-couplings. This method also exhibited good recycling ability. This study will greatly facilitate exploration of surfactant promotion in metal-mediated cross-couplings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Engineered graphene aerogel is constructed as hosted Li anodes. • The unique structure enables fast and homogeneous Li-ions transport and firm Li deposition. • The in-situ optical microscopy visualization and first-principles calculations presents homogeneous Li-ion nucleation. • The pouch cell (3*3 cm−2) enables stable cycling for more than 150 cycles. Great efforts have been made to optimize Li metal anodes to improve energy density and cycle life. However, challenges remain in achieving uniform Li plating/stripping while maintaining stable interphase chemistry. Here, an engineered graphene aerogel with uniformly oriented microscale channels, and normalized lithiophilic binding sites as hosted Li anodes is reported. Vertically aligned graphene with oriented channels are constructed using a freeze-drying mechanism, and highly lithiophilic binding sites are optimized by adjusting functional oxygen anions on graphene. Based on the in-situ optical microscopy visualization and first-principles calculations, this graphene host design presents homogeneous Li-ion nucleation owing to its straight transport channels with ultrahigh lithiophilicity, resulting in greatly improved cycling stability. Also, the flat and compatible electrode–electrolyte interphase facilitates smooth Li growth, thereby suppressing the formation of dendrites. Notably, the symmetric cells using the new composite anodes exhibit superior electrochemical reversibility over 500 cycles, with the patternable LiFePO 4 //Li@graphene pouch cells displaying outstanding cycling performance. This graphene-hosted Li anode thus demonstrates great potential for Li batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex dimorphism of economic traits such as growth rate and body size have potential breeding value in aquaculture. Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides L.) is an important freshwater cultured fish in China and the females live longer and reach larger sizes than males. However, the lacking of sex-specific makers and the unclear sex determination mechanism inhibits the development of all-female breeding. In this study, 5 females and 5 males were randomly selected and sequenced with whole-genome re-sequencing technology. In total, 1394 filtered SNPs and 425 filtered InDels were finally identified, and most of these makers were located at Chr7 and Chr18. The validation of the 35 SNPs located at Chr7 in three distinct population (n = 72) indicated that 2 SNPs (S4 and S6) could distinguish the females and males with 100% accuracies, which were genotyped as CC and CG, AA and AT in the females and males, respectively. Further, 10 and 6 InDels with sizes more than 18 bp were finally screened out on Chr7 and Chr18. 2 male-specific InDels (rs3394676 and rs3496814) located at Chr7 could effectively distinguish the above females and males with a PCR-based agarose gel electrophoresis, which performed as one band in the females and two bands in the males, respectively. These results suggested the Chr7 might be the sex chromosome and a XX/XY sex determination system in largemouth bass. In conclusion, a whole-genome re-sequencing method was first conducted to provide usefulness sex-specific makers and a XX/XY sex determination system in largemouth bass, which contributes to study of the sex determination mechanisms and the development of mono-sex population breeding. • Whole-genome re-sequencing were first conducted to explore the genetic differences between males and females in largemouth bass. • Two male-specific SNPs and two male-specific InDels were developed to distinguish genetic sex of largemouth bass. • The chromosome 7 was the sex chromosome in largemouth bass. • The sex determination system was a XX/XY determination system in largemouth bass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barium titanate (BaTiO 3) nanoparticles undergo a morphological transformation in a NaCl molten salt environment, beginning with nanoparticles then changing to nanowires and then microsheets, while the composition is transformed from pure BaTiO 3 into a mixture of Ba 2 Ti 6 O 13 , Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 and BaTiO 3. A systematic study on the effects of calcination temperature, treatment time and the mass ratio of BT (BaTiO 3)/NaCl on BaTiO 3 nanoparticles morphology is reported. Here, nanowires are generated in the range of 900–1100 °C, while at 1200 °C, not only nanowires but also microsheets appear in the product. Under conditions of 1:100 BT/NaCl weight ratio, 1100 °C calcination temperature, and 3 h reaction time, the resulting nanowires have a smooth surface, with a diameter of 324.6 ± 209.2 nm and a length of 20–150 μm. It is speculated that the mechanism of nanowires formation is a dissolution-precipitation process and that the formation of the microsheets is due to the result of liquid phase sintering of BaTiO 3 nanoparticles at high temperature. [Display omitted] • Morphology transformation of barium titanate from nanoparticles to nanowires and micraosheets in NaCl molten salt. • The morphology transformation is related to temperature, the mass ratio of barium titanate to NaCl and calcination time. • The composition of nanowires and microsheets is a mixture of Ba 2 Ti 6 O 13 , Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 and BaTiO 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much remains unknown for the selective translocation of ions across microporous polymeric membranes and it maintains a daunting challenge to pursue a polymeric membrane that can efficiently separate both anions and cations of comparable size. Here we explore the ion transport across hydrophilic microporous membrane derived from polymers of intrinsic microporosity, specifically the Trӧger's Base (TB) polymer DMBP-TB, through protonation and quaternization. We find the ion conduction through the resultant DMBP-TB+ membrane exhibits an obvious confining effect and a comprehensive study on the dependence of charge selectivity on ion concentrations reveals two distinct regimes, with an inverse from anion-selective to non-selective. The concentration-driven and electric-driven transport of anions or cations show a strong size sieving effect, with a cutoff size of around ~8.2 Å. The confining effect and the size effect transform to the best combination of a Li+ flux of 190.8 mmol m−2 h−1 and a Li+/Mg2+ selectivity of 21, which may benefit the extraction of Li resources. Our work provides new facts about the confined ion transport and potential applications of hydrophilic microporous polymeric membranes that feature easy fabrication, simple processing, and low cost. The highly rigid and contorted structure of Trӧger's Base polymer, specifically DMBP-TB, frustrate the packing of polymer chains, affording solution-processable microporous materials. When protonated or quaternized, the micropores serve as ion-conducting channels. The resulting DMBP-TB+ membrane behaves differently from conventional ion exchange membranes, demonstrating an inverse in charge selectivity. Distinct confining effect and strong size sieving effect are observed for cross-membrane ion transport. The transport of anions or cations with sizes bigger than 8.2 Å across the membrane is restricted. [Display omitted] • Ion conductive membranes were prepared from hydrophilic microporous polymers. • Ion selectivity of the hydrophilic microporous membranes was examined. • Charge effect, confining effect, and size effect were observed for ion permeation. • Hydrophilic microporous membranes can discriminate both anions and cations. • Ion sieving based on size effect was reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic lithium (Li) is a promising anode candidate for high-energy-density Li batteries. The problems of dendrite growth and volume expansion caused by Li metal cycling can be suppressed by the introduction of a 3D conductive skeleton. However, as the cycle progresses, the Li metal deposits on the upper surface of the skeleton structure, making the host ineffective. Herein, a 3D porous host is designed comprising ZnO nanoparticles having lithiophilic gradients assemble on an interconnected 3D carbon nanotube/graphene skeleton. The 3D porous carbon nanotube/graphene structure exhibits excellent conductivity and a large specific surface area, which reduces the local current density and provides ample space for Li deposition. More importantly, the lithiophilic gradient ZnO nanoparticles anchored on the graphene sheets enable hierarchical induction of Li-ion nucleation and guide Li deposition into the host, preventing preferential deposition at the top surface of the host even during prolonged Li stripping/plating. The host delivers a high Coulombic efficiency of up to 98.2% for at least 500 cycles, and the symmetrical cell comprising the host operates smoothly for >920 h (<20 mV). The as-prepared full cell, paired with a LiFePO 4 cathode, exhibits an excellent rate capability and flat surface morphology. [Display omitted] • 3D porous structure shows excellent conductivity and large specific surface area. • The gradient ZnO nanoparticles guide Li deposition into the host during cycling. • The host delivers a high Coulombic efficiency of up to 98.2% after 500 cycles. • The symmetrical cell comprising the host operates smoothly for >920 h (<20 mV). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The elastomer with multiple dynamic interactions was successfully synthesized. • The Cu-DMG-SS shows excellent mechanical strength and good self-healing ability. • Cu2+ can accelerate the dynamic covalent bonds exchange reactions. Self-healing materials have attracted considerable attention because of their sustainable property of prolonging service life and reducing resource consumption. However, as plenty of room-temperature self-healable materials have been studied, it still remains a great challenge to equip these materials with admirable mechanical strength since there is a compromise between intermolecular interactions and chain mobility. Herein, a novel strategy of integrating self-healing ability with robustness in polymeric elastomer at ambient condition was developed. The synthesized polyurethane was equipped with multiple reversible interactions including disulfide bonds, oxime urethane bonds, H-bonds and coordination interactions, and formed triple cross-linking network. What's important is that Cu2+ could not only act as the coordination center, but also serve as the catalyst to accelerate disulfide exchange and oxime urethane exchange reaction. XPS and stress relaxation tests revealed that the introduction of CuCl 2 reduced the relaxation activation energy of both the disulfide metathesis and oxime urethane exchange reaction. Thanks to the multiple interactions design and the effects of Cu2+, the elastomer was endowed with excellent mechanical strength of 19.5 MPa and self-healing efficiency of 83% at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The grid-scale integration of solar or wind energy that fluctuates over time will compromise the stability of the power grid. All-vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) is among the most feasible electrochemical energy storage solutions, while the grand challenge is to develop membranes that separate vanadium electrolytes effectively and transport protons rapidly. Here we present highly conductive and vanadium sieving microporous membranes from shape persistent Trӧger's Base polymer. The N-rich and microporous polymer skeleton facilitate H+ transport. In contrast, hydrated vanadium ions are blocked due to size exclusion and coulombic repulsion. This increases the H/V selectivity of the membrane to >6300, lowers the membrane resistance to 0.57 Ω cm2, and raises the battery power density to 710.9 mW cm−2. A round-trip energy efficiency of 80% and a coulombic efficiency of >99% are maintained during long periods of charge/discharge. We believe the results will stimulate new directions for advanced VRFB membranes. Image 1 • Protonated Trӧger's Base (TB) contains regularly arranged bicyclic diamine groups. • Regularly arranged bicyclic diamine groups efficiently transport H+ when protonated. • The protonated TB membrane has a high H+ conductivity and H/V selectivity. • The highest peak power density of 710.9 mW cm−2 is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Magnetic carbon@ferroferric oxide nanocatalyst (C@FONC) was elaborated by chemical co-precipitation. • Complementary performances between adsorption and oxidation were revealed during tetracycline (TC) degradation. • First complete pathway of TC degradation and toxicity estimates in a C@FONC/H 2 O 2 system. • C@FONC demonstrated high catalytic activity and stability during TC degradation. Magnetic carbon@ferroferric oxide nanocatalyst (C@FONC), a composite material comprising powdered activated carbon (PAC) and ferroferric oxide nanocatalyst (FONC), was prepared using chemical co-precipitation. In this study, we evaluated the performance and complete pathway of tetracycline (TC) degradation in a C@FONC/H 2 O 2 system. Moreover, the toxicity of TC and its intermediates was estimated. TC degradation in the C@FONC/H 2 O 2 system followed pseudo-first-order kinetics, and the TC removal efficiency reached 97% in 120 min (TC 0 = 150 ppm). The electron spin resonance (ESR) analysis and free radical quenching experiments indicated the generation of • OH and HO 2 • during the reaction. The investigation of the reaction mechanisms revealed the complementary performances between C@FONC adsorption and heterogeneous Fenton-like reaction in the TC degradation process. The stability of C@FONC recycling was also measured by multiple cycles of reactions, and the TC removal rate still reached 85.8% after nine cycles. In addition, the superparamagnetism and negligible iron leaching of the C@FONC/H 2 O 2 system represented significant improvements relative to PAC and the conventional homogeneous Fenton process, making it a promising composite for applications in advanced oxidation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]