2022 Volume 33 Issue 10

An odyssey of lithium metal anode in liquid lithium–sulfur batteries
Xiao-Zhong Fan , Meng Liu , Ruiqi Zhang , Yuezhou Zhang , Songcan Wang , Haoxiong Nan , Yunhu Han , Long Kong
2022, 33(10): 4421-4427  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.064
[Abstract](728) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3059KB](23)
Abstract:
Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries exhibit outstanding energy density and material sustainability. Enormous effects have been devoted to the sulfur cathode to address redox kinetics and polysulfide intermediates shuttle. Recent attentions are gradually turning to the protection of the lithium metal anodes, since electrochemical performances of Li–S batteries are closely linked to the working efficiency of the anode side, especially in pouch cells that adopt stringent test protocols. This Perspective article summarizes critical issues encountered in the lithium metal anode, and outlines possible solutions to achieve efficient working lithium anode in Li–S batteries. The lithium metal anode in Li–S batteries shares the common failure mechanisms of volume fluctuation, nonuniform lithium flux, electrolyte corrosion and lithium pulverization occurring in lithium metal batteries with oxide cathodes, and also experiences unique polysulfide corrosion and massive lithium accumulation. These issues can be partially addressed by developing three-dimensional scaffold, exerting quasi-solid reaction, tailoring native solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and designing artificial SEI. The practical evaluation of Li–S batteries highlights the importance of pouch cell platform, which is distinguished from coin-type cells in terms of lean electrolyte-to-sulfur ratio, thin lithium foil, as well as sizable total capacity and current that are loaded on pouch cells. This Perspective underlines the development of practically efficient working lithium metal anode in Li–S batteries.
Recent progress on preparation and applications of layered double hydroxides
Mengting Duan , Shanjing Liu , Qiming Jiang , Xingmei Guo , Junhao Zhang , Shenglin Xiong
2022, 33(10): 4428-4436  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.033
[Abstract](897) [FullText HTML] [PDF 6273KB](45)
Abstract:
The properties of layered double hydroxides (LDHs), including the adjustability of cations in host layers, exchangeability of anions between layers, and tunability of the crystal structure, render them unique characteristics in preparation and applications. Relating to the structural characteristics of LDHs, this work analyzes the research status, advantages and disadvantages of the synthetic methods for LDHs, including hydrothermal, electrodeposition, co-precipitation and anion exchange methods. In addition, the application status and prospects are reviewed, such as photo/electrocatalysis, electrochemical energy storage, magnetic materials, pollutant adsorption, and other fields. Lastly, the critical issues and solutions in the developing process of LDHs are analyzed and proposed.
Two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenide nanomaterials for cancer diagnosis and treatment
Jingjing Wu , Tingting Hu , Guoping Zhao , Anran Li , Ruizheng Liang
2022, 33(10): 4437-4448  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.080
[Abstract](555) [FullText HTML] [PDF 7352KB](12)
Abstract:
For more than a decade, the exfoliation of graphene and other layered materials has led to a tremendous amount of research in two-dimensional (2D) materials, among which 2D transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) nanomaterials have attracted much attention in a wide range of applications including photoelectric devices, lithium-ion batteries, catalysis, and energy conversion and storage owing to their unique photoelectric physical properties. With such large specific surface area, strong near-infrared (NIR) absorption and abundant chemical element composition, 2D TMCs nanomaterials have become good candidates in biomedical imaging and cancer treatment. This review systematically summarizes recent progress on 2D TMCs nanomaterials, which includes their synthesis methods and applications in cancer treatment. At the end of this review, we also highlight the future prospects and challenges of 2D TMCs nanomaterials. It is expected that this work can provide the readers with a detailed overview of the synthesis of 2D TMCs and inspire more novel functional biomaterials based on 2D TMCs for cancer treatment in the future.
Emerging nanomedicine and prodrug delivery strategies for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
Mengchi Sun , Weiyue Ban , Hao Ling , Xiang Yu , Zhonggui He , Qikun Jiang , Jin Sun
2022, 33(10): 4449-4460  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.061
[Abstract](412) [FullText HTML] [PDF 4507KB](3)
Abstract:
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and recurrent disease of the gastrointestinal tract, mainly including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). However, current approaches against IBD do not precisely deliver drugs to the inflammatory site, which leads to life-long medication and serious side effects that can adversely impact patients' adherence. It is necessary to construct optimal drug delivery systems (DDSs) that can target drugs to the region of inflammation, thereby improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects. With the burgeoning development of nanotechnology-based nanomedicines (NMs) and prodrug strategy, remarkable progresses in the treatment of IBD have been made in recent years. Herein, the latest advances are outlined at the intersection of IBD treatment and nanotherapeutics as well as prodrug therapy. First, the pathophysiological microenvironment of inflammatory sites of IBD is introduced in order to rationally design potential NMs and prodrugs. Second, the necessity of NMs for the IBD therapy is elaborated, and the representative nanotherapeutics via passive targeted and active targeted NMs developed to treat the IBD are overviewed. Furthermore, the emerging prodrug-based therapeutics are summarized, including 5-aminosalicylic acid-, amino acid-, and carbohydrate-conjugated prodrugs. Finally, the design considerations and perspectives of these NMs and prodrugs-driven IBD therapeutics in the clinical translation are spotlighted.
Recent advances in persulfate-based advanced oxidation processes for organic wastewater treatment
Ke Tian , Limin Hu , Letian Li , Qingzhu Zheng , Yanjun Xin , Guangshan Zhang
2022, 33(10): 4461-4477  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.042
[Abstract](1485) [FullText HTML] [PDF 8145KB](82)
Abstract:
In recent years, with the emergence of new pollutants, the effective treatment of wastewater has become very important. Persulfate-based advanced oxidation processes have been successfully applied to the treatment of wastewater, such as wastewater containing antibiotics, pharmaceuticals and personal care products, dyes, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, chlorinated organic pollutants, and phenolics, for the degradation of refractory organic contaminants. This paper summarizes the production of sulfate radicals, which can be generated by the activation of persulfate via conventional and emerging approaches. The existing problems of persulfate-based advanced oxidation processes were analyzed in detail, including residual sulfates, coexisting factors (coexisting inorganic anions and natural organic matter), and energy consumption. This paper proposes corresponding possible solutions to the problems mentioned above, and this paper could provide a reference for the application of persulfate-based advanced oxidation processes in actual wastewater treatment.
Recent advance of fluorescent probes for detection of drug-induced liver injury markers
Dongqin Sun , Zhenzhen Chen , Jiali Hu , Huajin Zeng , Lingbo Qu , Ran Yang
2022, 33(10): 4478-4494  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.043
[Abstract](922) [FullText HTML] [PDF 18363KB](17)
Abstract:
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a common and serious adverse drug reaction. At present, DILI is perfectly diagnozed in clinical settings using Roussel Uclaf causality assessment method (RUCAM) in its original version published 1993 and its updated version published 2016, well established worldwide as a diagnostic algorithm with a high sensitivity and specificity. Nevertheless, the search for additional detection methods supporting RUCAM continues. In recent years, with the development of optical imaging technology, fluorescent probes have gradually shown great advantages in the detection and diagnosis of DILI markers such as high sensitivity, anti-interference, real-time monitoring and non-invasive measurement. In this review, the recent advances of fluorescent probes for evaluation of DILI in experimental studies were summarized according to various markers of DILI. We believe that learning about the design and practical application of these probes will contribute to the further development of detection sensors for DILI markers.
A review on treatment of disinfection byproduct precursors by biological activated carbon process
Jie Fu , Ching-Hua Huang , Chenyuan Dang , Qilin Wang
2022, 33(10): 4495-4504  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.044
[Abstract](588) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3479KB](14)
Abstract:
Disinfection by-products (DBPs) in water systems have attracted increasing attention due to their toxic effects. Removal of precursors (mainly natural organic matter (NOM)) prior to the disinfection process has been recognized as the ideal strategy to control the DBP levels. Currently, biological activated carbon (BAC) process is a highly recommended and prevalent process for treatment of DBP precursors in advanced water treatment. This paper first introduces the fundamental knowledge of BAC process, including the history, basic principles, typical process flow, and basic operational parameters. Then, the selection of BAC process for treatment of DBP precursors is explained in detail based on the comparative analysis of dominant water treatment technologies from the aspects of mechanisms for NOM removal as well as the treatability of different groups of DBP precursors. Next, a thorough overview is presented to summarize the recent developments and breakthroughs in the removal of DBP precursors using BAC process, and the contents involved include effect of pre-BAC ozonation, removal performance of various DBP precursors, toxicity risk reduction, fractional analysis of NOM, effect of empty bed contact time (EBCT) and engineered biofiltration. Finally, some recommendations are made to strengthen current research and address the knowledge gaps, including the issues of microbial mechanisms, toxicity evaluation, degradation kinetics and microbial products.
Fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based nanomaterials for the sensing in biological systems
Xiaotong Shen , Wei Xu , Jin Ouyang , Na Na
2022, 33(10): 4505-4516  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.061
[Abstract](706) [FullText HTML] [PDF 16386KB](10)
Abstract:
The applications of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) are coming to be one of the simplest and most accessible strategy with super-resolved optical measurements. Meanwhile, nanomaterials have become ideal for constructing FRET-based system, due to their unique advantages of tunable emission, broad absorption, and long fluorescence (FL) lifetime. The limitations of traditional FRET-based detections, such as the intrinsic FL, auto-FL, as well as the short FL lifetime, could be overcome with nanomaterials. Consequently, numbers of FRET-based nanomaterials have been constructed for precise, sensitive and selective detections in biological systems. They could act as both energy donors and/or acceptors in the optical energy transfer process for biological detections. Some other nanomaterials would not participate in the energy transfer process, but act as the excellent matrix for modifications. The review will be roughly classified into nanomaterial-involved and uninvolved ones. Different detection targets, such as nucleic acids, pathogenic microorganisms, proteins, heavy metal ions, and other applications will be reviewed. Finally, the other biological applications, including environmental evaluation and mechanism studies would also be summarized.
Recent advances in the synthesis of fluoroalkylated compounds using fluoroalkyl anhydrides
Wei Wu , Yi You , Zhiqiang Weng
2022, 33(10): 4517-4530  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.038
[Abstract](678) [FullText HTML] [PDF 7829KB](17)
Abstract:
Fluoroalkyl-containing organic compounds have exhibited wide applications in the field of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and materials science due to their outstanding properties such as biological activity, metabolic stability, lipophilicity, excellent chemical and thermal stability. Therefore, various synthetic strategies have been developed for the construction of fluoroalkyl-containing compounds, using highly active fluorinating reagents and fluorinated building blocks. Recently, the use of easily available and inexpensive trifluoroacetic anhydride (TFAA) and its anhydride analogues has attracted great attention to access numerous fluoroalkyl-containing compounds through cyclization and coupling reactions. In this review, we summarized the recent advances in the synthesis of fluoroalkylated compounds using fluoroalkyl anhydrides as reagents. This review aims to provide a reference for researchers on how to develop new synthetic straregies of fluorine-containing organic compounds and achieve kilograms or even tons preparation of fluorine-containing organic compounds using fluoroalkyl anhydrides.
Copper-catalyzed decarboxylative Se insertion coupling of indoles and propiolic acids
Ge Wu , Xueying Zhou , Caihong Wang
2022, 33(10): 4531-4535  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.044
[Abstract](465) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3455KB](9)
Abstract:
A novel and efficient copper-catalyzed decarboxylative alkynylselenation of indoles with Se powder and propiolic acids has been developed. The outstanding advantages of this protocol not only nicely avoid the use of prefabricated arylselenation reagent and address the facile over-selention issues, but also enrich the chemistry of selenium powder. Importantly, this reaction could be extended to pyrrole, and the practical utility of this transformation has been demonstrated in gram-scale synthesis and late-stage indolylselenation of Clofibrate-derived propiolic acid.
Remarkable mechanochromism and force-induced thermally activated delayed fluorescence enhancement from white-light-emitting organic luminogens with aggregation-induced emission
Yitao Zheng , Lingqi Zuo , Letian Zhang , Zihao Huang , Shufeng Li , Zhan Yang , Zhu Mao , Suilian Luo , Cong Liu , Fengqiang Sun , Guang Shi , Zhenguo Chi , Bingjia Xu
2022, 33(10): 4536-4540  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.059
[Abstract](408) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2686KB](1)
Abstract:
The development of organic materials with white-light emission and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) properties in the solid state remain a challenge. Herein, a series of white-light-emitting organic luminogens have been developed and are found to show aggregation-induced delayed fluorescence (AIDF) characteristics. The AIDF emitters present dual-emission consisted of prompt fluorescence and TADF in the crystalline state. Their white-light emissions can be easily tuned by altering the chemical structure and connecting position of the heterocyclic aromatic substituent. Under the stimuli of mechanical force and solvent vapor, the compounds exhibit remarkable and reversible mechanochromism, in which their emission colors are switchable between white and yellow. Upon grinding, they also display linearly tunable luminescence colors, as well as force-induced TADF enhancement, which may be associated with the more compact molecular packing and the restriction of intramolecular motions. The results from time-resolved emission scanning and theoretical calculation suggest that the dual-emission of the AIDF luminogens likely results from the twisted intramolecular charge transfer transitions of the molecules, and the reversible mechanochromism properties probably stem from the interconversion of the quasi-axial and the quasi-equatorial conformations.
An improved Hummers method to synthesize graphene oxide using much less concentrated sulfuric acid
Yanbin Zhu , Gang Kong , Yuling Pan , Lian Liu , Bo Yang , Shuanghong Zhang , Delin Lai , Chunshan Che
2022, 33(10): 4541-4544  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.060
[Abstract](1253) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3006KB](39)
Abstract:
The production of graphene oxide with less acid is beneficial to reduce the costs and lower the impact on the environment, but it is still a great challenge. In this work, a relatively simple, safe method for synthesizing graphene oxide with much less acid (decrease ~40%) is proposed. With assistance of the heat absorbed from environment and reaction system, the temperature of reaction system of low acid can be well controlled. More interestingly, the graphite can be completely oxidized into graphite oxide by using much less acid, with lowering the production of high-concentration aqueous waste acid (> 1 mol/L, decrease ~40%). A series of characterizations show that the prepared graphene oxide has similar yield and functional groups compared with that of using the conventional method. This work provides a safe and environmentally friendly choice for the large-scale production of graphene oxide and its derivative materials.
Nitrogen-bridged Ni(Ⅱ) porphyrinoid trimers with a central quinodiimine unit
Kaisheng Wang , Boyu Xiao , Ling Xu , Mingbo Zhou , Takayuki Tanaka , Atsuhiro Osuka , Jianxin Song
2022, 33(10): 4545-4548  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.061
[Abstract](436) [FullText HTML] [PDF 1868KB](2)
Abstract:
Buchwald-Hartwig amination of 5, 15-dibromo and 5, 10-dibromo Ni(Ⅱ)porphyrins with 5-amino Ni(Ⅱ)porphyrin gave linear and bent trimers 4Ni and 5Ni with a central quinodiimine-type Ni(Ⅱ)porphyrinoid. The structures of 4Ni and 5Ni have been confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis in both cases. The formation of unusual products 4Ni and 5Ni has been ascribed to facile oxidation of 5, 15- and 5, 10-amino Ni(Ⅱ) porphyrin unit. Reduction of 4Ni and 5Ni under proper conditions gave NH-bridged Ni(Ⅱ)porphyrin trimers 4Ni-2H and 5Ni-2H in high yields. Trimers 4Ni and 5Ni exhibit the lowest energy band as compared with 4Ni-2H and 5Ni-2H. Especially the bent trimer 5Ni exhibits a broad absorption tail beyond 1400 nm.
Transition-metal-catalyzed switchable divergent cycloaddition of para-quinone methides and vinylethylene carbonates: Access to different sized medium-sized heterocycles
Junwei Wang , Lei Zhao , Chen Zhu , Ben Ma , Xiaolong Xie , Jian Liu , Shiyun He , Magnus Rueping , Kun Zhao , Lihong Hu
2022, 33(10): 4549-4558  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.063
[Abstract](531) [FullText HTML] [PDF 5003KB](4)
Abstract:
Divergent synthesis of medium-sized rings with controllable ring sizes represents a longstanding challenge in organic synthesis. Herein, we developed a transition-metal-catalyzed switchable divergent cycloaddition of para-quinone methides and vinylethylene carbonates by controlling the steric hindrance of substituent. Different from reported alkoxide-triggered annulations, this process undergoes a regiodivergent allylation of para-quinone methides followed by 1, 6-addition reaction, providing a new route to selectively synthesize seven- to ten-membered nitrogen-containing heterocycles in high yields with excellent regioselectivities. This protocol features a broad substrate scope, wide functional group tolerance as well as operational simplicity. The reaction mechanism was investigated by conducting a series of control experiments as well as DFT calculations and the origins of the regioselectivities of the cycloaddition process were rationalized.
Porphyrin covalent organic framework for photocatalytic synthesis of tetrahydroquinolines
Chengjuan Wu , Xinyu Li , Mingzhen Shao , Jinglan Kan , Guangbo Wang , Yan Geng , Yu-Bin Dong
2022, 33(10): 4559-4562  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.065
[Abstract](550) [FullText HTML] [PDF 1099KB](9)
Abstract:
A metal-free porphyrin covalent organic framework was employed as the heterogeneous photocatalyst for the synthesis of tetrahydroquinolines under aerobic conditions. With visible light irradiation of a catalytic amount of H2P-Bph-COF at room temperature, various substituted N, N-dimethylanilines and N-aryl maleimides were transformed to tetrahydroquinoline derivatives in moderate to good yields. This was the first example of the synthesis of tetrahydroquinolines via the photocatalytic aerobic annulation reaction employing the metal-free COF as the heterogeneous photocatalyst.
pH- and H2O2-sensitive drug delivery system based on sodium xanthate: Dual-responsive supramolecular vesicles from one functional group
Ziyan Shen , Ning Ma , Feng Wang , Jiaming Ren , Chenxi Hou , Shuang Chao , Yuxin Pei , Zhichao Pei
2022, 33(10): 4563-4566  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.069
[Abstract](737) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3154KB](3)
Abstract:
Nano-drug delivery systems with multiple stimulus-responsive capabilities have superior response performance and efficient drug release. Nevertheless, it is sophisticated to construct multiple stimulus-responsive systems where the two or more functional groups need to be introduced simultaneously. Xanthate, one functional group with pH and H2O2 stimulus responsiveness, has significant potential applications for building dual-responsive drug delivery system. Herein, we present a novel dual stimuli-responsive supramolecular drug delivery system by using sodium xanthate derivative (SXD) as guest molecule and quaternary ammonium capped Pillar[5]arene (QAP5) as host molecule through host-guest interaction on the basis of electrostatic interaction. The amphiphile QAP5⊃SXD could self-assemble into vesicles to efficiently load the anti-cancer drug DOX. The experimental results showed that QAP5⊃SXD nanoparticles could achieve efficient drug delivery and controlled release in the tumor microenvironment. Cytotoxicity experiments proved that DOX@QAP5⊃SXD nanoparticles could significantly improve the anticancer efficiency of free DOX on cancer cells. The present study provides an efficient strategy to develop supramolecular nanocarriers with dual-responsiveness in one functional group for controlled drug release.
A trefoil-shaped macrocycle with [12]-imidazolium cations
Le Zhang , Li-Ying Sun , Jin-Ping Chang , Hui-Yu Xie , Ya-Wen Zhang , Yi-Fan Zhang , Ying-Feng Han
2022, 33(10): 4567-4571  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.064
[Abstract](387) [FullText HTML] [PDF 1785KB](2)
Abstract:
A trefoil-like two-dimensional (2D) C3v symmetric organic [12]-imidazolium cation H122(PF6)12 featuring three [4]-imidazolium macrocycles was synthesized in three steps. The reaction of a dodecakis H121(PF6)12 imidazolium salt with Ag2O resulted in the formation of a hexanuclear Ag dodecacarbene assembly [Ag6(1)](PF6)6. Upon UV irradiation, the photodimerization of the cinnamic ester pendants of [Ag6(1)](PF6)6 led to the generation of a trefoil-like complex [Ag6(2)](PF6)6 containing three closed metallacycles. Removal of metal ions allowed for the synthesis of the target molecule. All complexes were fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C{1H} and 2D NMR) and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS).
Thiocytochalasins A−D, four sulfur-containing cytochalasans from an endophytic fungus Phoma multirostrata XJ-2-1
Xiaogang Peng , Jinling Chang , Ying Gao , Fangfang Duan , Hanli Ruan
2022, 33(10): 4572-4576  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.063
[Abstract](641) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2321KB](9)
Abstract:
Four unprecedented sulfur-containing cytochalasans, thiocytochalasins A−D (14), were isolated from an endophytic fungus Phoma multirostrata XJ-2-1. Thiocytochalasins A (1) and B (2) feature a novel 5/6/14/5 tetracyclic scaffold, which are the first examples of cytochalasan containing a thiophene moiety. Thiocytochalasins C (3) and D (4) are epimeric cytochalasan homodimers formed via a thioether bridge. Their structures with absolute configurations were established by detailed analysis of the HRESIMS, NMR, and X-ray crystallography. The plausible biogenetic pathway of 14 was postulated. Compounds 3 and 4 exhibited significant cytotoxicity against CT26 cells with IC50 values of 0.85 and 0.76 µmol/L, respectively.
Carbon dots enhanced gelatin/chitosan bio-nanocomposite packaging film for perishable foods
Bofei Fu , Qiaoling Liu , Minghuan Liu , Xiaofang Chen , Hetong Lin , Zongping Zheng , Junqiu Zhu , Congjie Dai , Xiaochen Dong , Da-Peng Yang
2022, 33(10): 4577-4582  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.048
[Abstract](731) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2093KB](40)
Abstract:
Carbon dots (CDs) with intriguing fluorescent property, good biocompatibility, high stability, easy interaction with substrates, are burgeoning carbon nanoparticles with large potential in various applications. Incorporating CDs into the polymer matrix is becoming a popular strategy to endow the complex with new functions. Herein, the green-synthesized CDs was integrated into the mixture of gelatin (derived from waste fish scale) and chitosan, and a multifunctional bio-nanocomposite (defined as Gelatin/Chitosan/CDs) film was developed, which showed the excellent antibacterial, antioxidant, pH-sensitivity, UV shielding, and blue-emission properties. The effects of different concentrations of CDs on the physical, mechanical, structural, and functional activity of bio-nanocomposite film were tested. Compared with the Gelatin/Chitosan film, the Gelatin/Chitosan/CDs film with an optimum addition of 20% CDs showed the enhanced antibacterial, antioxidant as well as UV shielding activities. More importantly, it was used as an effective packaging material for fish meat preservation, reducing the loss of nutritional quality consumption, extending the shelf life of food. Besides, the bio-nanocomposite films also possessed the anti-counterfeiting and pH-responsive properties due to the strong fluorescent emission of CDs, and had the great potential in developing the intelligent packaging materials. Our work shed new light on the new application of CDs and the synthesis of bio-nanocomposite film in food industry.
A glutathione activatable pro-drug-photosensitizer for combined chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy
Yanjun Yang , Yifeng Zhang , Ran Wang , Xiang Rong , Ting Liu , Xiang Xia , Jiangli Fan , Wen Sun , Xiaojun Peng
2022, 33(10): 4583-4586  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.040
[Abstract](676) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3482KB](23)
Abstract:
During cancer treatment, chemotherapeutic drugs always result in severe side-effects and drug resistance. Therefore, combining cheomtherapy with other therapeutic modalities, such as photodynamic therapy (PDT) and designing an activable platform is promising for precise and efficient anticancer treatment. Herein, we report a "pro-drug-photosensitizer" agent, LMB-S-CPT, bearing a disulfide bond as the glutathione (GSH)-activatable linker. LMB-S-CPT can be selectively activated by GSH to release activated drug, camptothecin (CPT), for chemotherapy and activated photosensitizer, methylene blue (MB), for PDT. LMB-S-CPT exhibits excellent tumor-activatable performance when injected into tumor-bearing mice, as well as specific cancer therapy with negligible toxic side effects. The activatable pro-drug-photosensitizer offers a new strategy for chemo-photodynamic therapy and displays precise, selective and excellent antitumor effect.
Distachydrimanes A–F, phenylspirodrimane dimers and hybrids with cytotoxic activity from the coral-derived fungus Stachybotrys chartarum
Shuang Lin , Jianzheng Huang , Hanxiao Zeng , Qingyi Tong , Xueke Zhang , Beiye Yang , Ying Ye , Jianping Wang , Zhengxi Hu , Yonghui Zhang
2022, 33(10): 4587-4594  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.064
[Abstract](667) [FullText HTML] [PDF 6225KB](8)
Abstract:
By integrating one strain-many compounds (OSMAC) and LC–MS-based molecular networking strategies, distachydrimanes A–F (1–6), six novel phenylspirodrimane dimers and hybrids representing two types of unprecedented terpenoid-polyketide hybrid skeletons, were isolated from the modified fermented rice substrate of a coral-derived fungus Stachybotrys chartarum. All the structures incorporating their absolute configurations were elucidated based on comprehensive spectroscopic analyses, mainly including HRESIMS and NMR data, single-crystal X-ray diffraction (Cu Kα), and comparison of the experimental electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data. Architecturally, compounds 1–6 represent an unprecedented class of dimeric phenylspirodrimanes with an unexpected C-18–C-23′ linkage, of which compounds 1–3 also feature an unexpected 5-methyl-1, 3-benzenediol moiety via a carbon-carbon linkage. The bioactivity assay demonstrated that compounds 1, 5 and 6 induced cell proliferation inhibition, G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, senescence and mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in L1210 cells, highlighting their potentials as a new category of anticancer agents.
A GSH-depleted platinum(Ⅳ) prodrug triggers ferroptotic cell death in breast cancer
Dachuan Qi , Lei Xing , Lijun Shen , Wenshuang Sun , Cheng Cai , Chunhua Xue , Xuwei Song , Hua Yu , Hulin Jiang , Chengjun Li , Qingri Jin , Zhiqi Zhang
2022, 33(10): 4595-4599  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.105
[Abstract](1000) [FullText HTML] [PDF 4495KB](8)
Abstract:
Cisplatin is the first-line drug for treatment of various solid tumors including breast cancer due to the broad anti-tumor spectrum and strong anti-tumor effect. However, serious side effects and long-term medication of reduced sensitivity by high GSH in tumor cells have severely restricted its further clinical application. Herein, a GSH-depleted Pt(Ⅳ) prodrug (Platin B) based on cisplatin and 4-carboxylphenylboronic acid pinacol ester was prepared to solve the problems. As an excellent GSH scavenger, 4-carboxylphenylboronic acid pinacol ester could be activated by intracellular redox reactions to release quinone methide, thereby amplifying oxidative stress and leading to breast cancer ferroptosis therapy. Interestingly, the consumption of GSH can also reduce cisplatin inactivation, enhance the sensitivity of tumor cells to cisplatin and efficiently induce apoptosis/ferroptosis. This work highlights the use of GSH scavenger for triggering ferroptotic cell death in breast cancer.
Targeted co-delivery of daunorubicin and cytarabine based on the hyaluronic acid prodrug modified liposomes
George Frimpong Boafo , Yejiao Shi , Qingqing Xiao , Kosheli Thapar Magar , Makhloufi Zoulikha , Xuyang Xing , Chao Teng , Emmanuel Brobbey , Xiaotong Li , Xiaohong Jiang , Xiaochun Wang , Yi Yang , Samuel Kesse , Wei He
2022, 33(10): 4600-4604  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.04.033
[Abstract](560) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3535KB](14)
Abstract:
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women, and it was hard to prevent or diagnose at an early stage. Thus, it is imperative to develop advanced therapeutics for effective treatment. Herein, a targeted daunorubicin (DNR) and cytarabine (ara-C) co-delivery system was developed by modifying the ara-C loaded liposomes (LIP-ara-C) with the hyaluronic acid-DNR (HA-DNR) prodrugs. The co-assembled hybrid nanoparticles (HA-DNR/LIP-ara-C HNPs) exhibited good serum and storage stability with an average diameter of approximately 100 nm. By specifically binding to the CD44 receptors that overexpressed on cancer cells, these HNPs could be uptake via endocytosis and accumulate intracellularly, in which an optimized DNR and ara-C combination at a molar ratio of 1:5 could generate enhanced synergistic effects with reduced dose-related toxicity on cancer cells.
A hybrid nano-assembly with synergistically promoting photothermal and catalytic radical activity for antibacterial therapy
Yunxia Wang , Chuangxin Zhang , Hui Zhang , Liheng Feng , Libing Liu
2022, 33(10): 4605-4609  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.076
[Abstract](478) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3226KB](5)
Abstract:
It is of great significance to develop effective antibacterial agents and methods to combat drug resistant bacterial infections due to its increasing threaten to human health and the ineffectiveness of antibiotics. Herein, a multifunctional hybrid nano-assembly (M1-Fe NPs) based on conjugated oligomer and ferrous ion was engineered with favorable bactericidal activity for synergetic antibacterial therapy. The chelation of ferrous ion not only enhances the photothermal conversion efficiency of M1 but also endows the nano-assembly with catalytic capability of transferring H2O2 into stronger oxidant hydroxyl radicals (OH). Meanwhile, the generated heat can further promote the Fenton reaction activity. By generating cytotoxic heat and oxidative OH, M1-Fe NPs can effectively kill Staphylococcus aureus in vitro and in vivo with the aid of low dosage of H2O2. The work provides a new multifunctional platform for combinational drug resistant antibacterial therapy and even antitumor therapy.
Nanoparticles targeting at methylases with high correlation to N6-methyladenosine-related lncRNA signatures as potential therapy of kidney clear cell carcinoma
Ruixuan Chen , Ping Ouyang , Licong Su , Xi Xu , Penghu Lian , Yanqin Li , Qi Gao , Yifan Zhang , Sheng Nie , Fan Luo , Ruqi Xu , Xiaodong Zhang , Xiaoxi Li , Yue Cao , Peiyan Gao , Juanjuan Kang , Jun Wu , Lu Li
2022, 33(10): 4610-4616  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.074
[Abstract](393) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3470KB](3)
Abstract:
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a heterogeneous malignancy with poor prognosis. Methylation of the N6 position of adenosine (m6A), the most common epigenetic modification in both messenger RNAs and noncoding RNAs, has been reported to regulate the initiation and progression of ccRCC. However, whether and how m6A-related long noncoding RNAs (m6ArlncRNAs) signify the progression of ccRCC remain unclear. We found m6ArlncRNAs are effective signatures illustrating immune landscape and risk stratification in ccRCC. We identified two differently expressed m6ArlncRNAs (DEm6ArlncRNAs), AC008870.2 and EMX2OS, as independent risk factors for overall survival of ccRCC patients, by applying stringent variable selection procedure to data from the Cancer Genome Atlas Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma project. The risk score generated from the DEm6ArlncRNA expression categorizes patients into either high or low-risk groups, between which, enrichment analysis indicated an enrichment in immunerelated pathways. Under different DEm6ArlncRNA transcription pattern, the two risk groups differ in immune cell population composition and expression levels of therapy targeting genes. Nanoparticle is satisfactory strategy to delivering therapeutic drugs. For further clinical translation, we designed a novel nanoparticle delivery system packaged STM2457 (STM@8P4 NPs), which selectively inhibits AC008870.2- correlated m6A writer. STM@8P4 NPs loaded drug successfully with uniform particle size, long-term stability and high release efficiency. STM@8P4 NPs can easily enter ccRCC cells and showed a highly efficient ccRCC killing activity in vitro. Our results therefore indicate that m6ArlncRNAs expression can depict tumor microenvironment, predict prognosis for ccRCC patient and give hint to therapeutic strategies in ccRCC.
Oral delivery of superoxide dismutase by lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles for the treatment of ulcerative colitis
Yaxin Cui , Tianyu Zhu , Xueyan Zhang , Jicong Chen , Fengying Sun , Youxin Li , Lesheng Teng
2022, 33(10): 4617-4622  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.077
[Abstract](494) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3448KB](13)
Abstract:
Protein-based drugs have received extensive attention in the field of drug research in recent years. However, protein-based drug activity is difficult to maintain during oral delivery, which limits its application. This study developed bifunctional oral lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles (R8-PEG-PPNPs) that deliver superoxide dismutase (SOD) for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). R8-PEG-PPNPs was composed of PCADK, PLGA, lecithin, and co-modified with stearic acid-octa-arginine and polyethylene glycol. The nanoparticles (NPs) are uniformly dispersed with a complete spherical structure. In vitro stability and release studies showed that R8-PEG-PPNPs exhibited good stability and protection. In vitro cell culture experiments demonstrated that R8-PEG-PPNPs as carriers have no significant toxic effects on cells at concentration below 1000 µg/mL and promote cellular uptake. In experiments with ulcerative colitis mice, R8-PEG- PPNPs were able to enhance drug absorption by intestinal epithelial cells and accumulate effectively at the site of inflammation. Its therapeutic effect further demonstrates that R8-PEG-PPNPs are a promising delivery system for oral delivery of protein-based drugs.
Computational prediction of Mo2@g-C6N6 monolayer as an efficient electrocatalyst for N2 reduction
Jiajun Wang , Mengyao Shi , Guolin Yi , Lu Wang , Shulai Lei , Ke Xu , Shujuan Li , Jianshuai Mu
2022, 33(10): 4623-4627  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.040
[Abstract](866) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2777KB](6)
Abstract:
Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is an environmentally friendly method for sustainable ammonia synthesis under ambient conditions. Searching for efficient NRR electrocatalysts with high activity and selectivity is currently urgent but remains great challenge. Herein, we systematically investigate the NRR catalytic activities of single and double transition metal atoms (TM = Fe, Co, Ni and Mo) anchored on g-C6N6 monolayers by performing first-principles calculation. Based on the stability, activity, and selectivity analysis, Mo2@g-C6N6 monolayer is screened out as the most promising candidate for NRR. Further exploration of the reaction mechanism demonstrates that the Mo dimer anchored on g-C6N6 can sufficiently activate and efficiently reduce the inert nitrogen molecule to ammonia through a preferred distal pathway with a particularly low limiting potential of -0.06 V. In addition, we find that Mo2@g-C6N6 has excellent NRR selectivity over the competing hydrogen evolution reaction, with the Faradaic efficiency being 100%. Our work not only predicts a kind of ideal NRR electrocatalyst but also encouraging more experimental and theoretical efforts to develop novel double-atom catalysts (DACs) for NRR.
Reversible aqueous zinc-ion battery based on ferric vanadate cathode
Wang Yang , Wu Yang , Yongfeng Huang , Chengjun Xu , Liubing Dong , Xinwen Peng
2022, 33(10): 4628-4634  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.049
[Abstract](571) [FullText HTML] [PDF 8650KB](12)
Abstract:
Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries have attracted extensive interest because of low cost and high safety. However, the relationship between structure change of cathode and the zinc ion storage mechanism is still complex and challenging. Herein, open-structured ferric vanadate (Fe2V4O13) has been developed as cathode material for aqueous zinc-ion batteries. Intriguingly, two zinc ion storage mechanism can be observed simultaneously for the Fe2V4O13 electrode, i.e., classical intercalation/deintercalation storage mechanism in the tunnel structure of Fe2V4O13, and reversible phase transformation from ferric vanadate to zinc vanadate, which is verified by combined studies using various in-situ and ex-situ techniques. As a result, the Fe2V4O13 cathode delivers a high discharge capacity of 380 mAh/g at 0.2 A/g, and stable cyclic performance up to 1000 cycles at 10 A/g in the operating window of 0.2–1.6 V with 2 mol/L Zn(CF3SO3)2 aqueous solution. Moreover, the assembled Fe2V4O13//Zn flexible quasi-solid-state battery also exhibits a relatively high mechanical strength and good cycling stability. The findings reveal a new perspective of zinc ion storage mechanism for Fe2V4O13, which may also be applicable to other vanadate cathodes, providing a new direction for the investigation and design of zinc-ion batteries.
Enabling ultrafast lithium-ion conductivity of Li2ZrCl6 by indium doping
Shuai Chen , Chuang Yu , Shaoqing Chen , Linfeng Peng , Cong Liao , Chaochao Wei , Zhongkai Wu , Shijie Cheng , Jia Xie
2022, 33(10): 4635-4639  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.048
[Abstract](728) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3625KB](25)
Abstract:
Solid-state batteries with high energy density and safety are promising next-generation battery systems. However, lithium oxide and lithium sulfide electrolytes suffer low ionic conductivity and poor electrochemical stability, respectively. Lithium halide solid electrolyte shows high conductivity and good compatibility with the pristine high-voltage cathode but limited applications due to the high price of rare metal. Zr-based lithium halides with low cost and high stability possess great potential. Herein, a small amount of In3+ is introduced in Li2ZrCl6 to synthesize Li2.25Zr0.75In0.25Cl6 electrolytes with a high room temperature Li-ion conductivity of 1.08 mS/cm. Solid-state batteries using Li2.25Zr0.75In0.25Cl6/Li5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 bilayer solid electrolytes combined with Li-In anode and pristine LiNi0.7Mn0.2Co0.1O2 cathode deliver high initial discharge capacities under different cut-off voltages. This work provides an effective strategy for enhancing the conductivity of Li2ZrCl6 electrolytes, promoting their applications in solid-state batteries.
Covalent carbene modification of 2D black phosphorus
Lei Zhang , Zhe-Ji Wang , Bo Ma , Xiang-Yang Li , Yu-Chi Dai , Guowen Hu , Yong Peng , Qiang Wang , Hao-Li Zhang
2022, 33(10): 4640-4644  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.046
[Abstract](826) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2764KB](2)
Abstract:
Black phosphorus (BP) has attracted an ever-growing interest due to its unique anisotropic two-dimensional structure, impressive photoelectronic properties and attractive application potential. However, the tools for bandgap engineering and passivation via covalent modification of BP nanosheets remain limited to diazonium salt and nucleophilic addition methods, so that developing new modification strategies for BP nanosheets is crucial to explore its physical and chemical properties and enrich the toolbox for functionalization. Herein, we report the covalent modification of liquid-phase exfoliated BP nanosheets based on a rational analysis of BP structure. The modification of BP is achieved via carbene, a highly reactive organic mediate. The carbene modification improves the solubility and stability of BP nanosheets. Detailed microscopic and spectroscopic characterizations including infrared spectra, Raman spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectra, SEM and TEM were conducted to provide insights for the reaction. The proof of the existence of covalent bonds between BP nanosheets and organic moieties confirms the successful modification. Moreover, theoretical calculations were conducted to unveil the reaction mechanism of the two different types of bonds and the chemical property of two-dimensional BP.
Nearly 100% exciton utilization in highly efficient red OLEDs based on dibenzothioxanthone acceptor
Xiaoxiao Hu , Yuanyuan Qin , Zhiyi Li , Honglei Gao , Teng Gao , Guanhao Liu , Xiangyu Dong , Naxi Tian , Xiuxian Gu , Chun-Sing Lee , Pengfei Wang , Ying Wang
2022, 33(10): 4645-4648  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.047
[Abstract](414) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2360KB](1)
Abstract:
Improving the utilization of excitons has always been an important topic for the development of electroluminescence devices. In this work, we designed and synthesized three red TADF emitters TPA-DBT12, TPA-DBT3 and DTPA-DBT by employing dibenzothioxanthone (DBT) acceptor framework to stabilize the locally excited triplet state to participate in the reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) process. The fast RISC process and singlet radiation decay process gave rise to evidently enhanced exciton utilization. All of the red OLEDs based on these materials showed maximum EQE over 11% and high exciton utilization close to 100%. This work not only extend the acceptor framework for red materials but also provide a new perspective for the design of highly efficient red TADF materials with 100% exciton utilization by managing locally excited triplet state.
Single molecular insight into steric effect on C-terminal amino acids with various hydrogen bonding sites
Yunzhi Xie , Chunhua Liu , Linxiu Cheng , Yulan Fan , Huifang Li , Wei Liu , Lei Zhu , Xun Li , Ke Deng , Qingdao Zeng , Shoufa Han
2022, 33(10): 4649-4654  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.056
[Abstract](428) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3101KB](4)
Abstract:
Amino acids are basic units to construct a protein with the assistance of various interactions. During this building process, steric hindrance derived from amino acid side groups or side chains is a factor that could not be ignored. In this contribution, adsorption behaviors of C-terminal amino acid derivatives with amino acid residues fused in 3, 4, 9, 10-perylenetetracarboxylic dianhydride were investigated by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations at various liquid/solid interfaces. STM results at 1-phenyloctane/HOPG interface show that N, N'-3, 4, 9, 10-perylenedicarboximide (GP) and N, N'-methyl-3, 4, 9, 10-perylenedicarboximide (AP) formed linear and herringbone structures, respectively. The driving force could be attributed to different H-bonding sites induced by steric hindrance at side groups. N, N'-Benzyl-3, 4, 9, 10-perylenedicarboximide (PP) generates both linear and herringbone structures because steric hindrance changes the H-bonding sites between PP molecules, whereas N, N'-isopropyl-3, 4, 9, 10-perylenedicarboximide (LP) failed to be imaged because of strong steric hindrance coming from larger side group. To further investigate the impact of steric hindrance, we utilized octanoic acid (OA) as solvent to capture the adsorption details of LP and PP. We found that OA molecules drag PP and LP molecules in a different direction to generate linear structure, impeding the molecular rotation. The structure–solvent relationship shows that the steric hindrance is brought by the large side group, which makes it easier to recognize OA molecules at the interface. These results demonstrate that steric effect plays a significant role in altering interaction sites of the compounds during the adsorption process at the liquid/solid interface.
Amorphous core/shell Ti-doped SnO2 with synergistically improved N2 adsorption/activation and electrical conductivity for electrochemical N2 reduction
Yu Yan , Hongjiao Qu , Xiaonan Zheng , Kexin Zhao , Xiaoxiao Li , Yuan Yao , Yang Liu
2022, 33(10): 4655-4658  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.054
[Abstract](422) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2285KB](2)
Abstract:
Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) has been considered as an appealing and sustainable method to produce ammonia from N2 under ambient conditions, attracting increasing interest. Limited by low solubility of N2 in water and high stability of NN triple bond, developing NRR electrocatalysts with both strong N2 adsorption/activation and high electrical conductivity remain challenging. Here, we demonstrate an efficient strategy to develop NRR electrocatalyst with synergistically enhanced N2 adsorption/activation and electrical conductivity by heteroatom doping. Combining computational and experimental study, the DFT-designed Ti-doped SnO2 exhibits significantly enhanced NRR performance with ammonia yield rate of 13.09 µg h−1 mg−1 at −0.2 V vs. RHE. Particularly, the Faradaic efficiency reaches up to 42.6%, outperforming most of Sn-based electrocatalysts. The fundamental mechanism for improving NRR performance of SnO2 by Ti doping is also revealed. Our work highlights a powerful strategy for developing high-activity electrocatalysts for NRR and beyond.
Effects of subtle change in side chains on the photovoltaic performance of small molecular donors for solar cells
Xiang Gao , Kuibao Yu , Yanjiao Zhao , Tao Zhang , Jing Wen , Zifeng Liu , Zhihao Liu , Guofeng Ye , Jianhong Gao , Ziyi Ge , Zhitian Liu
2022, 33(10): 4659-4663  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.055
[Abstract](437) [FullText HTML] [PDF 1387KB](5)
Abstract:
Small-molecule organic solar cells (SMOSCs) have attracted considerable attention owing to the merits of small molecules, such as easy purification, well-defined chemical structure. To achieve high-performance SMOSCs, the rational design of well-matched donor and acceptor materials is extremely essential. In this work, two new small molecular donor materials with subtle change in the conjugated side thiophene rings are synthesized. The subtle change significantly affects the photovoltaic performance of molecular donors. Compared with chlorinated molecule MDJ-Cl, the non-chlorinated analogue MDJ exhibits decreased miscibility with the non-fullerene acceptor Y6, can more efficiently quench the excitons of Y6. As a result, a improved PCE of 11.16% is obtained for MDJ: Y6 based SMOSCs. The results highlight the importance of fine-tuning the molecular structure to achieve high-performance SMOSCs.
Construction of one Ru2W12-cluster and six lacunary Keggin tungstoarsenate leading to the larger Ru-containing polyoxometalate photocatalyst
Huafeng Li , Mengnan Yang , Zelong Yuan , Yahao Sun , Pengtao Ma , Jingyang Niu , Jingping Wang
2022, 33(10): 4664-4668  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.081
[Abstract](488) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3358KB](5)
Abstract:
Construction of two Ru cations and six lacunary Keggin fragments resulted in a novel Ru2W12-cluster {(RuO6)2(WO3)12(H2O)12} bridged polyoxometalate, NaH11[(RuO6)(AsW9O33)3{(W6O3)(H2O)6}]2 53H2O (NaH11·1·53H2O), which represent the largest cluster in all the Ru-containing polyoxometalates. The most interesting characteristic is that the symmetry-related Ru2W12-cluster-based hexamers contain two windmill-shaped [(RuO6)(AsW9O33)3{(W6O3)(H2O)6}] trimers or the Ru2W12 cluster was tightly wrapped by six segments of B-β-AsW9O33. The other remarkable feature is that there have one intriguing cubane structure: which is composed of the Ru(1, 2) and W(1, 28, 50, 51, 52, 53) atoms. The oxygenation reactions of anilines to azoxybenzenes was evaluated when NaH11·1·53H2O served as effective catalyst by probing various reaction. The inherent redox property of oxygen-rich polyoxometalate surfaces and high photocatalytic activity of the Ru-containing metal cluster imbedded in NaH11·1·53H2O provide sufficient driving force for the photocatalytic transformation from anilines to azoxybenzenes. The oxidation of anilines can be realized with higher selectivity to afford various azoxybenzene compounds. The durability test shows that Ru-doping catalyst displays excellent chemical stability during the photocatalytic process.
In situ localization of BiVO4 onto two-dimensional MXene promoting photoelectrochemical nitrogen reduction to ammonia
Demei Zhang , Shiyu Yang , Xiaoyu Fang , Huifeng Li , Xuebo Chen , Dongpeng Yan
2022, 33(10): 4669-4674  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.02.001
[Abstract](1786) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3611KB](26)
Abstract:
The existing industrial ammonia synthesis usually adopts the Haber-Bosch process, which requires harsh conditions of high temperature and high pressure, and consumes high energy. Under this circumstance, photoelectrochemical (PEC) catalysis is regarded as a promising method for N2 reduction reaction (NRR), but bears problems of low efficiency and yield. Thus, exploring active catalysts remains highly desirable. In this work, BiVO4@MXene hybrids have been facilely synthesized by a hydrothermal route. The heterojunctions by the in situ growth of BiVO4 onto two-dimensional (2D) MXene greatly increase the NRR efficiency: under photoelectric conditions, the optimized NH3 yield is 27.25 μg h -1 cm-2, and the Faraday efficiency achieves 17.54% at -0.8 V relative to the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), which are higher than most state-of-the-art NRR (photo) electrocatalysts. The mechanism speculation shows the enhanced light absorption range and the heterojunction formation largely promote the separation and the transfer efficiency of photogenerated carriers, thereby improving the PEC catalytic ability. Therefore, this work provides a hybrid route to combine the advantages of photo and electric catalysis for effective artificial nitrogen fixation.
Synthesis, structure and properties of three novel transition-metal-containing tantalum-phosphate clusters
Xue Li , Hui Zhao , Yuyan Li , Yuanyuan Yang , Mingyang Zhang , Suyi Liu , Pengtao Ma , Jingping Wang , Jingyang Niu
2022, 33(10): 4675-4678  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.078
[Abstract](497) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2524KB](4)
Abstract:
Peroxide ligation of aqueous metal–oxo clusters provides rich speciation and structural diversity. Here, three novel transition-metal derivatives of polyoxometalate anions, [Ni2(H2O)10{P4Ta6(O2)6O24}]6– (1a), [Zn(H2O)4{P4Ta6(O2)6O24}]8– (2a) and [Cd(H2O)4{P4Ta6(O2)6O24}]8– (3a), have been successfully synthesized by adopting a one-pot reaction strategy. All of these hexatantalates are built from a new-type phosphorus-incorporated hexatantalates. We investigated the solution behaviors, and the peak assignments of the MS spectra indicated some degree of stability of them in water. Furthermore, the proton-conducting ability of compound 1a was also explored and it has shown well conductivity at high relative humidities, with conductivity achieved 1.22 × 103 S/cm (85 ℃, 90%RH).
Efficient ozone decomposition over bifunctional Co3Mn-layered double hydroxide with strong electronic interaction
Bin Liu , Minxian Zhang , Jingling Yang , Mingshan Zhu
2022, 33(10): 4679-4682  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.025
[Abstract](419) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2250KB](5)
Abstract:
Ground-level ozone is one of the primary pollutants detrimental to human health and ecosystems. Catalytic ozone decomposition still suffers from low efficiency and unsatisfactory stability. In this work, we report a manganese-based layered double hydroxide catalyst (Co3Mn-LDH), which exhibited a superior ozone decomposition performance with the efficiency of 100% and stability over 7 h under a GHSV of 2,000,000 mL g-1h-1 and relative humidity of 15%. Even when the relative humidity increased to 50%, the ozone decomposition also reached 86%, which significantly exceeds as-synthesized MnO2 and commercial MnO2 in performance. The catalytic mechanism was studied by H2-TPR, FT-IR and XPS. The excellent performance of Co3Mn-LDH can be attributed to its abundant surface hydroxyl groups that ensured the preferentially surface enrichment of ozone, as well as the cyclic dynamic replenishment of electrons between multivalent Co2+/Co3+, Mn2+/Mn3+/Mn4+ and oxygen species that endowed the stable ozone decomposition. This work offers new insights into the design of efficient catalysts for ozone pollution control.
Bimetallic AuRu aerogel with enzyme-like activity for colorimetric detection of Fe2+ and glucose
Rongxin Xu , Ziyu Wang , Siquan Liu , He Li
2022, 33(10): 4683-4686  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.062
[Abstract](462) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3018KB](5)
Abstract:
Aerogels have become a hot topic of research due to their extremely low density and special interconnected structure as well as their enzyme-like activity. The development of new multifunctional nano-enzyme aerogels with high activity and good stability is still a considerable challenge. In this paper, AuRu aerogels with peroxidase and oxidase activities were synthesized using a simple one-step method and successfully used to construct colorimetric sensors for the detection of Fe2+ and glucose based on their enzyme-like activities. Furthermore, we are fortunate to find that AuRu aerogels have good photothermal properties. This suggests that AuRu aerogels can be used not only for in vitro testing but also for promising applications such as disease treatment.
Low temperature conversion of methane to syngas using lattice oxygen over NiO-MgO
Junbu Wang , Zeai Huang , Ying Wang , Jundao Wu , Zhiqiang Rao , Fang Wang , Ying Zhou
2022, 33(10): 4687-4690  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.060
[Abstract](492) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3787KB](8)
Abstract:
The conversion of methane to syngas (H2 and CO) is an important route to produce high value-added products. Oxidize methane into syngas in the absence of gaseous oxidants is an economical route. In this work, NiO-MgO composite is successfully synthesized via an impregnation method. At 764 K, methane is directly converted to syngas on the NiO-MgO without gaseous oxidants. A synergistic effect of NiO and MgO was observed, in which NiO induced lattice oxygen of MgO mobility to oxidize methane and suppressed the formation of intermediates for side reaction. As a result, NiO-MgO exhibited enhancement of catalytic activity with the H2 production rate of 1241.0 μmol g-1 min-1, which was 3.4 times higher than that of pure MgO. This work provides a direct guidance to understand of methane oxidation via lattice oxygen under low temperature (< 773 K).
Promoting electrochemical reduction of CO2 to ethanol by B/N-doped sp3/sp2 nanocarbon electrode
Yanming Liu , Haolei Yang , Xinfei Fan , Bing Shan , Thomas J. Meyer
2022, 33(10): 4691-4694  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.063
[Abstract](492) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3180KB](2)
Abstract:
Electrochemical reduction of CO2 to value-added chemicals holds promise for carbon utilization and renewable electricity storage. However, selective CO2 reduction to multi-carbon fuels remains a significant challenge. Here, we report that B/N-doped sp3/sp2 hybridized nanocarbon (BNHC), consisting of ultra-small nanoparticles with a sp3 carbon core covered by a sp2 carbon shell, is an efficient electrocatalyst for electrochemical reduction of CO2 to ethanol at relatively low overpotentials. CO2 reduction occurs with a Faradaic efficiency of 58.8%-69.1% for ethanol and acetate production at -0.5 ~ -0.6 V (vs. RHE), among which 51.6%-56.0% is for ethanol. The high selectivity for ethanol is due to the integrated effect of sp3/sp2 carbon and B/N doping. Both sp3 carbon and B/N doping contribute to enhanced ethanol production with sp2 carbon reducing the overpotential for CO2 reduction to ethanol.
Inherently hydrophilic mesoporous channel coupled with metal oxide for fishing endogenous salivary glycopeptides and phosphopeptides
Zixing Xu , Yonglei Wu , Xufang Hu , Chunhui Deng , Nianrong Sun
2022, 33(10): 4695-4699  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.069
[Abstract](506) [FullText HTML] [PDF 4281KB](5)
Abstract:
Both glycosylation and phosphorylation exert crucial rule in multitudinous biological processes. For in-depth profiling of glycosylation and phosphorylation, a magnetic metal oxide is effectively coupled with inherently hydrophilic mesoporous channels (denoted as Fe3O4@TiO2@mSiO2-TSG). Based on the mechanism of hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) and metal oxide affinity chromatography (MOAC), the Fe3O4@TiO2@mSiO2-TSG nanomaterial shows high capacity for simultaneously enriching glycopeptides and phosphopeptides. With human saliva collected in successive four days as practical biological sample, endogenous glycopeptides and phosphopeptides are efficiently enriched. Further gene ontology analysis reveals that the identified endogenous glycopeptides and phosphopeptides participate in diverse molecular functions and biological processes. This strategy is anticipated to promote variation analysis of salivary post-translational modifications.
Construction of high-efficiency CoS@Nb2O5 heterojunctions accelerating charge transfer for boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Xin Ren , Jianyou Shi , Ruihuan Duan , Jun Di , Chao Xue , Xiao Luo , Qing Liu , Mengyang Xia , Bo Lin , Wu Tang
2022, 33(10): 4700-4704  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.076
[Abstract](534) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3424KB](9)
Abstract:
The random movement and easy recombination of photoinduced charges lead to a low conversion efficiency for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. The cocatalyst design is a promising route to address such problem through introducing an appropriate cocatalyst on the semiconductor photocatalysts to construct the high-efficiency heterojunctions. Herein, novel CoS/Nb2O5 heterojunctions were constructed via in-situ loading CoS cocatalyst on the surface of Nb2O5 nanosheets. Through the femtosecond-resolved transient absorption spectroscopy, the average lifetime of charge carriers for 10 wt% CoS/Nb2O5 (159.6 ps) is drastically shortened by contrast with that of Nb2O5 (5531.9 ps), strongly suggesting the rapid charge transfer from Nb2O5 to CoS. The significantly improved charge-transfer capacity contributes to a high photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 355 μmol/h, up to 17.5 times compared with pristine Nb2O5. This work would provide a new design platform in the construction of photocatalytic heterojunctions with high charge-transfer efficiency.
Insight into the photoexcitation effect on the catalytic activation of H2 and C-H bonds on TiO2(110) surface
Min Zhou , Hai-Feng Wang
2022, 33(10): 4705-4709  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.074
[Abstract](411) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3248KB](2)
Abstract:
Semiconductor photocatalysis holds great promise for breaking the inert chemical bonds under mild condition; however, the photoexcitation-induced modulation mechanism has not been well understood at the atomic level. Herein, by performing the DFT+U calculations, we quantitatively compare H2 activation on rutile TiO2(110) under thermo- versus photo-catalytic condition. It is found that H2 dissociation prefers to occur via the heterolytic cleavage mode in thermocatalysis, but changes to the homolytic cleavage mode and gets evidently promoted in the presence of photoexcited hole (h+). The origin can be ascribed to the generation of highly oxidative lattice O-radical (Obr·-) with a localized unoccupied O-2p state. More importantly, we identify that this photo-induced promotion effect can be practicable to another kind of important chemical bond, i.e., C–H bond in light hydrocarbons including alkane, alkene and aromatics; an exception is the C(sp1)-H in alkyne (HC≡CH), which encounters inhibition effect from photoexcitation. By quantitative analysis, the origins behind these results are attributed to the interplay between two factors: C-H bond energy (Ebond) and the acidity. Owing to the relatively high Ebond and acidity, it favors the C(sp1)-H bond to proceed with the heterolytic cleavage mode in both thermo- and photo-catalysis, and the photoexcited Obr·- is adverse to receiving the transferred proton. By contrast, for the other hydrocarbons with moderate/low Ebond, the Obr·- would enable to change their activation mode to a more favored homolytic one and evidently decrease the C–H activation barrier. This work may provide a general picture for understanding the photocatalytic R–H (R = H, C) bond activation over the semiconductor catalyst.
Dissection the endocytic routes of viral capsid proteins-coated upconversion nanoparticles by single-particle tracking
Yujun Ning , Lin Wei , Shen Lin , Yifan Jiang , Naidong Wang , Lehui Xiao
2022, 33(10): 4710-4714  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.084
[Abstract](440) [FullText HTML] [PDF 2487KB](3)
Abstract:
Real-time exploring the cellular endocytic pathway of viral capsid proteins (VCPs) functionalized nanocargos at the single-particle level can provide deep insight into the kinetic information involved in virus infection. In this work, porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) VCPs with different functions are modified onto the surface of upconversion nanoparticles (VCPs-UCNPs) to investigate the cellular internalization process in real-time. Clathrin-mediated endocytosis is found to be the essential uptake mechanism for these VCPs-UCNPs. Besides, it is verified that P1-UCNPs (PCV2 VCPs with nuclear localization signal, namely P1) can be easily assembled close to the perinuclear area, which is different from that of P2-UCNPs (PCV2 VCPs without nuclear localization signal, namely P2). Interestingly, multistep entry processes are observed. Particularly, confined diffusion is observed during the transmembrane process. The intracellular transport of VCPs-UCNPs is dependent on microtubules toward the cell interior. During this process, P1-UCNPs display increased velocities with active transport, while diffusion much faster around the perinuclear area. But for P2-UCNPs, there are only two phases involved in their endocytosis process. This study presents distinct dynamic mechanisms for the nanocargos with different functions, which would make a useful contribution to the development of robust drug delivery systems.
The photocatalytic ·OH production activity of g-C3N4 improved by the introduction of NO
Jun Jing , Kai Qi , Guohui Dong , Mengmeng Wang , Wingkei Ho
2022, 33(10): 4715-4718  doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.12.071
[Abstract](542) [FullText HTML] [PDF 3037KB](4)
Abstract:
The efficiency of photocatalytic pollutant removal largely depends on the ability of the photocatalytic system to produce hydroxyl radicals (·OH). However, the capability of photocatalyst to produce ·OH is not strong at present. Advancing the capacity of photocatalytic system to produce ·OH has always been a tough problem and challenge in the field of environmental science. In this research, it was found that introducing nitric oxide (NO) into the graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) photocatalytic system could memorably enhance the ability of producing ·OH group. This study provides a new idea for improving the capacity of photocatalytic ·OH production.
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