High-Nuclear Co-Added Polyoxometalate-Based Chain: Electrocatalytic Oxygen Production

A high-nuclear Co-added polyoxometalate (CoAP) was synthesized via a hydrothermal reaction: H14.5K9Na7.5-{[Co8(μ2-OH)(μ3-OH)2(H2O)2(Co(H2O)GeW6O26)(B-α-GeW9O34)2][BO(OH)2][Co12(μ2-OH)(μ3-OH)5(H2O)3(Co(H2O)GeW6O26)(GeW6O26)(B-α-GeW9O34)]}·46H2O (1). The polyoxoanion of 1 contains a large Co20 cluster gathered by lacunary GeW6O26 and GeW9O34 subunits. 1 represents a one-dimensional (1D) chain formed by adjacent polyoxoanions coupling through a CoO6 double bridge, showing the first example of a high-nuclear CoAP-based inorganic chain. 1 served as an efficient electrocatalyst in oxygen evolution reactions (OERs).

Multidentate polyoxometalate modification of metal nanoparticles with tunable electronic states

To respond to the increasing demands for practical applications, stabilization and property modulation of metal nanoparticles have emerged as a key research subject. Herein, we present a viable protocol for preparing small metal nanoparticles (<5 nm; Ag, Pd, Pt, and Ru) via multidentate polyoxometalate (POM, [SiW9O34]10-) modification. In addition to enhancing stability, the POMs can modulate the electronic states of metal nanoparticles. Moreover, immobilization of the POM-modified metal nanoparticles on solid supports enables further tuning of the electronic states via a cooperative effect between the POMs and the supports without altering the particle size. Notably, POM-modified Pd nanoparticles on carbon support exhibited superior catalytic activity and selectivity in hydrogenation reactions in comparison with the catalyst without the POM modification.

Multifunctional Molybdenum-Based Nanoclusters Engineered Gelatin Methacryloyl as In Situ Photo-Cross-Linkable Hybrid Hydrogel Dressings for Enhanced Wound Healing

Skin injuries and wounds present significant clinical challenges, necessitating the development of advanced wound dressings for efficient wound healing and tissue regeneration. In this context, the advancement of hydrogels capable of counteracting the adverse effects arising from undesirable reactive oxygen species (ROS) is of significant importance. This study introduces a hybrid hydrogel with rapid photocuring and excellent conformability, tailored to ameliorate the hostile microenvironment of damaged skin tissues. The hybrid hydrogel, composed of photoresponsive Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMA) and Molybdenum-based nanoclusters (MNC), exhibits physicochemical characteristics conductive to skin regeneration. In vitro studies demonstrated the cytocompatibility and ROS-responsive behavior of the MNC/GelMA hybrid hydrogels, confirming their ability to promote human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) functions. The incorporation of MNC into GelMA not only enhances HDF adhesion, proliferation, and migration but also shields against oxidative damage induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Notably, in vivo evaluation in murine full-thickness skin defects revealed that the application of hybrid hydrogel dressings led to reduced inflammation, accelerated wound closure, and enhanced collagen deposition in comparison to control groups. Significantly, this study introduced a convenient approach to develop in situ ROS-scavenging hydrogel dressings to accelerate the wound healing process without the need for exogenous cytokines or medications. We consider that the nanoengineering approach proposed herein offers potential possibilities for the development of therapeutic hydrogel dressings addressing various skin-related conditions.

Polyoxometalate-mediated syntheses of three structurally new silver clusters

Three structurally new polyoxometalate-templated silver clusters, homometallic [(SiW9O34)@Ag24(iPrS)11(DPPP)6Cl]2(SiW12O40) (Ag24), heterometallic [(SiW9O34)@Ag22Cu(iPrS)11(DPPP)6Cl](SbF6)2 (Ag22Cu) and {Ag16(iPrS)6(DPPP)8(CH3COO)4[Co4(OH)3(H2O)SiW9O33]2}·(CH3CN)4 (Ag16Co8) (iPrS- = isopropanethiolate, DPPP = 1,3-bis(diphenylphosphino)propane, SbF6- = hexafluoroantimonate) have been successfully synthesized using a facile solvothermal approach. The introduction of copper and cobalt ions can induce obvious changes in the molecular configuration of the obtained clusters, leading to distinct temperature-dependent photoluminescence and photothermal conversion properties.

Self-assembled molecular hybrids comprising lacunary polyoxometalates and multidentate imidazole ligands

Self-assembly via coordination bonding facilitates the creation of diverse inorganic-organic molecular hybrids with distinct structures and properties. Recent advances in this field have been driven by the versatility of organic ligands and inorganic units. Lacunary polyoxometalates are a class of well-defined metal-oxide clusters with a customizable number of reactive sites and bond directions, which make them promising inorganic units for self-assembled molecular hybrids. Herein, we report a novel synthesis method for self-assembled molecular hybrids utilizing the reversible coordination of multidentate imidazole ligands to the vacant sites of lacunary polyoxometalates. We synthesized self-assembled molecular hybrids including monomer, dimers, and tetramer, demonstrating the potential of our method for constructing intricate hybrids with tailored properties and functionalities.

Small Copper Nanoclusters Synthesized through Solid-State Reduction inside a Ring-Shaped Polyoxometalate Nanoreactor

Cu nanoclusters exhibit distinctive physicochemical properties and hold significant potential for multifaceted applications. Although Cu nanoclusters are synthesized by reacting Cu ions and reducing agents by covering their surfaces using organic protecting ligands or supporting them inside porous materials, the synthesis of surface-exposed Cu nanoclusters with a controlled number of Cu atoms remains challenging. This study presents a solid-state reduction method for the synthesis of Cu nanoclusters employing a ring-shaped polyoxometalate (POM) as a structurally defined and rigid molecular nanoreactor. Through the reduction of Cu2+ incorporated within the cavity of a ring-shaped POM using H2 at 140 °C, spectroscopic studies and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the formation of surface-exposed Cu nanoclusters with a defined number of Cu atoms within the cavities of POMs. Furthermore, the Cu nanoclusters underwent a reversible redox transformation within the cavity upon alternating the gas atmosphere (i.e., H2 or O2). These Cu nanoclusters produced active hydrogen species that can efficiently hydrogenate various functional groups such as alkenes, alkynes, carbonyls, and nitro groups using H2 as a reductant. We expect that this synthesis approach will facilitate the development of a wide variety of metal nanoclusters with high reactivity and unexplored properties.

Unraveling the Intertwining Factors Underlying the Assembly of High-Nuclearity Heterometallic Clusters

Two closely related yet distinctly different cationic clusters, [Dy52Ni44(HEIDA)36(OH)138(OAc)24(H2O)30]10+ (1) and [Dy112Ni76(HEIDA)44(EIDA)24(IDA)4(OH)268(OAc)48(H2O)44]4+ (2) (HEIDA=N-(2-hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetate), each featuring a multi-shell core of Platonic and Archimedean polyhedra, were obtained. Depending on the specific conditions used for the co-hydrolysis of Dy3+ and Ni2+, the product can be crystallized out as one particular type of cluster or as a mixture of 1 and 2. How the reaction process was affected by the amount of hydrolysis-facilitating base and/or by the reaction temperature and duration was investigated. It has been found that a reaction at a high temperature and/or for an extended period favors the formation of the compact and thermodynamically more stable 1, while a brief reaction with a large amount of the base is good for the kinetic product 2. By tuning these intertwining conditions, the reaction can be regulated toward a particular product.

An Innovative SbIII-WVI-Cotemplated Antimonotungstate with Potential in Sensing Paroxetine Electrochemically

Advances in polyoxometalate (POM) self-assembly chemistry are always accompanied by new developments in molecular blocks. The exploration and discovery of uncommon building blocks offer great possibilities for generating unprecedented POM clusters. An intriguing SbIII-WVI-cotemplated antimonotungstate [H2N(CH3)2]11Na[SbW9O33]Er2(H2O)2Sb2[SbWVIW15O57]·22H2O (1) was synthesized, which comprises a classical trivacant Keggin [SbW9O33]9- ({SbW9}) fragment and an unclassical lacunary Dawson-like [SbWVIW15O57]15- ({SbWVIW15}) subunit. Notably, the Dawson-like {SbWVIW15} subunit is the first example of a [SbO3]3- and [WVIO6]6- mixed-heteroatom-directing POM segment. Hexacoordinated [WVIO6]6- can not only serve as the heteroatom function but its additional oxygen sites can also link to lanthanide, main-group metal, and transition-metal centers to form the innovative structure. {SbWVIW15} and {SbW9} subunits are joined by the heterometallic [Er2(H2O)2Sb2O17]22- cluster to give rise to an asymmetric sandwich-type architecture. To further realize its potential application in electrochemical sensing, a conductive 1@rGO composite was obtained by the electrochemical deposition of 1 with graphene oxide (GO). Using a 1@rGO-modified glassy carbon electrode as the working electrode, an electrochemical biosensor for detecting the antidepressant drug paroxetine (PRX) was successfully constructed. This work can provide a viable strategy for synthesizing mixed-heteroatom-directing POMs and demonstrates the application of POM-based materials for the electrochemical detection of drug molecules.

Synthesis and Characterization of 6-Ti-Substituted Polyoxomolybdate with High Catalytic Activity for Sulfide Oxidation

A 6-Ti-substituted polyoxometalate, (NH4)5Cs7Na3H2[Cs@(Ti2GeMo10O39)3]·34H2O (1), was synthesized by reacting (NH4)6Mo7O24·4H2O, GeO2, and TiOSO4 through the conventional aqueous method. Polyanion 1a is composed of three {Ti2GeMo10} segments linked by Ti-O-Ti linkages and shows a trefoil-shaped structure. Furthermore, one Cs+ cation is encapsulated in the cavity of 1a. Notably, it possesses the highest number of Ti centers among the reported polyoxomolybdates. In addition, serving as a high-efficiency heterogeneous catalyst, 1 enables the conversion of methyl phenyl sulfide within 20 min, yielding 96.4% of the corresponding sulfoxide with good recyclability.

Selective Hydrolysis of Ovalbumin by Zr-Based Lacunary Polyoxotungstate in Surfactant Solutions

This study aims to design an artificial metalloprotease based on a Zr-containing polyoxometalate Na8[Zr(W5O18)2] [Zr(W5)2] for the hydrolysis of ovalbumin (OVA) in the presence of different surfactants, which can be used in many areas of the biological and medical sciences, particularly for targeted proteolytic drug design. For this reason, parameters, including the free energy of binding, the chemical nature of amino acid residues, secondary structures, and electrostatic potentials, of Zr(W5)2-OVA and Zr(W5)2-OVA-surfactant were analyzed by molecular docking simulations. The investigations showed that the presence of surfactants decreases the binding affinity of Zr(W5)2 for OVA amino acids, and hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions are formed between Zr(W5)2 and OVA amino acids. Additionally, GROMACS further illustrated the significance of SDS and CTAB surfactants in influencing the conformational changes of the OVA that lead to selective protein hydrolysis. In agreement with molecular dynamics simulation results, the experimental analysis showed more protein hydrolysis for the Zr(W5)2-OVA-surfactant systems. For instance, circular dichroism spectroscopy indicated that Zr(W5)2-OVA-CTAB and Zr(W5)2-OVA-TX-100 were more hydrolytically efficient due to the increased level of β-structures rather than α-chains, which showed that surfactants can facilitate the accessibility of Zr(W5)2 to the cleavage sites by inducing partial unfolding of the OVA structure.

Single-Molecule Magnet Behavior of Confined Dy(III) in a Mixed Heteroatom-Substituted Polyoxotungstate

Two heteroatom-templated Dy(III)-confined polyoxotungstates [H2N(CH3)2]7Na7[Dy2(H2O)7(W4O9)(HPSeW15O54)(α-SeW9O33)2]·31H2O (1) and [H2N(CH3)2]14K2Na18{[Dy2(H2O)13W14O40]2[α-SeW9O33]4[HPSeW15O54]2}·44H2O (2) were synthesized by a one-pot aqueous reaction and structurally characterized. The most distinctive structural feature of complexes 1 & 2 is the simultaneous presence of both trivacant Keggin [α-SeW9O33]8- and Dawson [HPSeW15O54]10- building blocks containing P(III)-Se(IV) heteroatoms. The trimeric polyanion of 1 can be represented as a fusion of two trivacant Keggin [α-SeW9O33]8- and Dawson [HPSeW15O54]10- building units encapsulating the [Dy2(H2O)7(W4O9)]12+ cluster. On the other hand, hexameric polyoxoanions of 2 are described as four trivacant Keggin [α-SeW9O33]8- and two Dawson [HPSeW15O54]10-, building units anchoring a [Dy4(H2O)26W28O80]20+ cluster. The magnetic investigation revealed the presence of significant magnetic anisotropy and slow relaxation of magnetization behavior for complex 1 with a phenomenological energy barrier, Ueff = 13.58 K in the absence of an external magnetic field, and Ueff = 24.57 K in the presence of a 500 Oe external dc magnetic field. On the other hand, complex 2 favors the QTM relaxation process in the absence of an external magnetic field and shows field-induced slow relaxation of magnetization with Ueff = 11.11 K at 1500 Oe applied dc field. The in-depth analysis of magnetic relaxation dynamics shows that the relaxation process follows the Orbach as well as Raman relaxation pathways. Further, the ab initio calculation of the studied complexes confirms that the highly axial ground and first excited energy states (containing pure highest mJ states) are responsible for the observed single-molecule magnet (SMM) behavior. Remarkably, this is the first example of a mixed heteroatom-based Dy(III)-substituted polyoxotungstate with both trimeric Keggin [α-SeW9O33]8- and Dawson [HPSeW15O54]10- building units showing SMM behavior.

Porphyrin-Polyoxotungstate Molecular Hybrid as a Highly Efficient, Durable, Visible-Light-Responsive Photocatalyst for Aerobic Oxidation Reactions

Organic-polyoxometalate (POM) hybrids have recently attracted considerable interest because of their distinctive properties and wide-ranging applications. For the construction of organic-POM hybrids, porphyrins are promising building units owing to their optical properties and reactivity, including strong visible-light absorption and subsequent singlet-oxygen (1O2*) generation. However, the practical utilization of porphyrins as photocatalysts and photosensitizers is often hindered by their own degradation by 1O2*. Therefore, there is a substantial demand for the development of porphyrin-derived photocatalysts with both high efficiency and durability. Herein, we present a porphyrin-polyoxotungstate molecular hybrid featuring a face-to-face stacked porphyrin dimer (I) fastened by four lacunary polyoxotungstates. Hybrid I exhibited remarkable efficiency and durability in photocatalytic aerobic oxidation reactions, and the selective oxidation of various dienes, alkenes, sulfides, and amines proceeded using just 0.003 mol % of the catalyst. Mechanistic investigations suggested that the high activity of I stems from the efficient generation of 1O2*, resulting from the heavy-atom effect of POMs. Furthermore, despite its high efficiency in 1O2* generation compared to free porphyrins, I exhibited superior durability against 1O2*-induced degradation under photoirradiation.

Atomically Precise Silver Clusters Stabilized by Lacunary Polyoxometalates with Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction Activity

The syntheses of atomically precise silver (Ag) clusters stabilized by multidentate lacunary polyoxometalate (POM) ligands have been emerging as a promising but challenging research direction, the combination of redox-active POM ligands and silver clusters will render them unexpected geometric structures and catalytic properties. Herein, we report the successful construction of two structurally-new lacunary POM-stabilized Ag clusters, TBA6 H14 Ag14 (DPPB)4 (CH3 CN)9 [Ag24 (Si2 W18 O66 )3 ] ⋅ 10CH3 CN ⋅ 9H2 O ({Ag24 (Si2 W18 O66 )3 }, TBA=tetra-n-butylammonium, DPPB=1,4-Bis(diphenylphosphino)butane) and TBA14 H6 Ag9 Na2 (H2 O)9 [Ag27 (Si2 W18 O66 )3 ] ⋅ 8CH3 CN ⋅ 10H2 O ({Ag27 (Si2 W18 O66 )3 }), using a facile one-pot solvothermal approach. Under otherwise identical synthetic conditions, the molecular structures of two POM-stabilized Ag clusters could be readily tuned by the addition of different organic ligands. In both compounds, the central trefoil-propeller-shaped {Ag24 }14+ and {Ag27 }17+ clusters bearing 10 delocalized valence electrons are stabilized by three C-shaped {Si2 W18 O66 } units. The femtosecond/nanosecond transient absorption spectroscopy revealed the rapid charge transfer between {Ag24 }14+ core and {Si2 W18 O66 } ligands. Both compounds have been pioneeringly investigated as catalysts for photocatalytic CO2 reduction to HCOOH with a high selectivity.

Ultra-stable and highly reactive colloidal gold nanoparticle catalysts protected using multi-dentate metal oxide nanoclusters

Owing to their remarkable properties, gold nanoparticles are applied in diverse fields, including catalysis, electronics, energy conversion and sensors. However, for catalytic applications of colloidal gold nanoparticles, the trade-off between their reactivity and stability is a significant concern. Here we report a universal approach for preparing stable and reactive colloidal small (~3 nm) gold nanoparticles by using multi-dentate polyoxometalates as protecting agents in non-polar solvents. These nanoparticles exhibit exceptional stability even under conditions of high concentration, long-term storage, heating and addition of bases. Moreover, they display excellent catalytic performance in various oxidation reactions of organic substrates using molecular oxygen as the sole oxidant. Our findings highlight the ability of inorganic multi-dentate ligands with structural stability and robust steric and electronic effects to confer stability and reactivity upon gold nanoparticles. This approach can be extended to prepare metal nanoparticles other than gold, enabling the design of novel nanomaterials with promising applications.

POMFinder: identifying polyoxometallate cluster structures from pair distribution function data using explainable machine learning

Characterization of a material structure with pair distribution function (PDF) analysis typically involves refining a structure model against an experimental data set, but finding or constructing a suitable atomic model for PDF modelling can be an extremely labour-intensive task, requiring carefully browsing through large numbers of possible models. Presented here is POMFinder, a machine learning (ML) classifier that rapidly screens a database of structures, here polyoxometallate (POM) clusters, to identify candidate structures for PDF data modelling. The approach is shown to identify suitable POMs from experimental data, including in situ data collected with fast acquisition times. This automated approach has significant potential for identifying suitable models for structure refinement to extract quantitative structural parameters in materials chemistry research. POMFinder is open source and user friendly, making it accessible to those without prior ML knowledge. It is also demonstrated that POMFinder offers a promising modelling framework for combined modelling of multiple scattering techniques.

Effects of the tetravanadate [V4O12]4- anion on the structural, magnetic, and biological properties of copper/phenanthroline complexes

The aim to access linked tetravanadate [V4O12]4- anion with mixed copper(II) complexes, using α-amino acids and phenanthroline-derived ligands, resulted in the formation of four copper(II) complexes [Cu(dmb)(Gly)(OH2)]2[Cu(dmb)(Gly)]2[V4O12]·9H2O (1) [Cu(dmb)(Lys)]2[V4O12]·8H2O (2), [Cu(dmp)2][V4O12]·C2H5OH·11H2O (3), and [Cu(dmp)(Gly)Cl]·2H2O (4), where dmb = 4,4'-dimethioxy-2,2'-bipyridine; Gly = glycine; Lys = lysine; and dmp = 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline. The [V4O12]4- anion is functionalized with mixed copper(II) units in 1 and 2; while in 3, it acts as a counterion of two [Cu(dmp)]2+ units. Compound 4 crystallized as a unit that did not incorporate the vanadium cluster. All compounds present magnetic couplings arising from Cu⋯O/Cu⋯Cu bridges. Stability studies of water-soluble 3 and 4 by UV-Vis spectroscopy in cell culture medium confirmed the robustness of 3, while 4 appears to undergo ligand scrambling over time, resulting partially in the stable species [Cu(dmp)2]+ that was also identified by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry at m/z = 479. The in vitro cytotoxicity activity of 3 and 4 was determined in six cancer cell lines; the healthy cell line COS-7 was also included for comparative purposes. MCF-7 cells were more sensitive to compound 3 with an IC50 value of 12 ± 1.2 nmol. The tested compounds did not show lipid peroxidation in the TBARS assay, ruling out a mechanism of action via reactive oxygen species formation. Both compounds inhibited cell migration at 5 µM in wound-healing assays using MCF-7, PC-3, and SKLU-1 cell lines, opening a new window to study the anti-metastatic effect of mixed vanadium-copper(II) systems.

Programmable adhesion and morphing of protein hydrogels for underwater robots

Soft robots capable of efficiently implementing tasks in fluid-immersed environments hold great promise for diverse applications. However, it remains challenging to achieve robotization that relies on dynamic underwater adhesion and morphing capability. Here we propose the construction of such robots with designer protein materials. Firstly, a resilin-like protein is complexed with polyoxometalate anions to form hydrogels that can rapidly switch between soft adhesive and stiff non-adhesive states in aqueous environments in response to small temperature variation. To realize remote control over dynamic adhesion and morphing, Fe3O4 nanoparticles are then integrated into the hydrogels to form soft robots with photothermal and magnetic responsiveness. These robots are demonstrated to undertake complex tasks including repairing artificial blood vessel, capturing and delivering multiple cargoes in water under cooperative control of infrared light and magnetic field. These findings pave an avenue for the creation of protein-based underwater robots with on-demand functionalities.

Anderson-type polyoxometalate-based metal-organic framework as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for selective oxidation of benzylic C-H bonds

Oxidative transformation of benzylic C-H bonds into functional carbonyl groups under mild conditions represents an efficient method for the synthesis of aromatic carboxylic acids and ketones. Here we report a high-efficiency catalyst system constructed from an Anderson-type polyoxometalate-based metal-Organic framework (POMOF-1) and N-hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) for selective oxidation of methylarenes and alkylarenes under 1 atm O2 atmosphere. POMOF-1 exerted a synergistic effect originating from the well-aligned Anderson {CrMo6} clusters and Cu centers within the framework, and this entailed good cooperation with NHPI to catalyze the selective oxidation. Accordingly, the reactions exhibit good tolerance and chemical selectivity for a wide range of substrates bearing diverse substituent groups, and the corresponding carboxylic acids and ketones were harvested in good yields under mild conditions. Mechanism study reveals that POMOF-1 worked synergistically with NPHI to activate the benzylic C-H bonds of substrates, which are sequentially oxidized by oxygen and HOO˙ to give rise to the products. This work may pave a way to design high-efficiency catalysts by integration of polyoxometalate-based materials with NPHI for challenging C-H activation.

Aryl selenonium vs. aryl sulfonium counterions in polyoxometalate chemistry: the impact of Se+ cationic centers on the photocatalytic reduction of dichromate

A selenonium organic counter ion has been used in polyoxometalate chemistry to develop a new aryl selenonium polyoxometalate (POM) hybrid, and its photocatalytic properties have been explored in comparison with an aryl sulfonium POM-hybrid counterpart for the first time. The chalcogenonium counterions, namely, methyldiphenylsulfonium trifluoromethane sulfonate (MDPST) and methyldiphenylselenonium trifluoromethane sulfonate (MDPSeT), and their octamolybdate ([Mo8O26]4-) hybrids, 1 and 2, with the general formula (C13H13X)4[Mo8O26] (where X = S for 1 and Se for 2) were synthesized and characterized. Hybrids 1 and 2 vary in their chalcogenonium cationic center (S+vs. Se+), which enabled a direct comparison of their photocatalytic properties as a function of the cationic center. The photocatalytic activities of hybrids 1 and 2 were tested using the reduction of dichromate (Cr2O72-) as a model reaction under UV irradiation. A 99% photocatalytic reduction of Cr2O72- with a rate constant of 0.0305 min-1 was achieved with hybrid 2, while only a 67% reduction with a rate constant of 0.0062 min-1 was observed with hybrid 1 in 180 minutes. The better catalytic performance of hybrid 2 may be correlated to the larger atomic radii of Se than S, which helps in better stabilizing the photogenerated electron-hole (e--h+) pair on the POM cluster by polarizing its lone pair more efficiently compared to S. The catalytic recyclability was tested for up to 4 cycles using hybrid 2, and up to 98% reduction was obtained even after the 4th cycle. Recyclability tests and control experiments also indicated the generation of some elemental Se through possible cleavage of some C-Se bonds of MDPSe under prolonged UV exposure during catalysis, and the Se thus generated was found to contribute to the catalytic reduction of dichromate. This study, therefore, opens new avenues for aryl selenonium moieties and their POM hybrids for potential catalytic applications.

A porous Anderson-type polyoxometalate-based metal-organic framework as a multifunctional platform for selective oxidative coupling with amines

Incorporating catalytic units into a crystalline porous matrix represents a facile way to build high-efficiency heterogeneous catalysts, and by rational design of the porous skeleton with appropriate building blocks the catalytic performance can be significantly enhanced for a series of organic transformations owing to the synergistic effect from the multicomponent and confined porous microenvironment around catalytically active sites. Herein, we demonstrate that the design and synthesis of a porous polyoxometalate-based metal-organic framework YL2(H2O)2[CrMo6O18(PET)2]·4H2O (POMOF-1) constructed from Anderson-type [CrMo6O18(PET)2] (PET = pentaerythritol), which can be employed as a multifunctional platform for synthesis of N-containing compounds via selective oxidative coupling with amines. POMOF-1 features microporous 1D channels defined by Y3+ and L, with [CrMo6O18(PET)2] arranged orderly between adjacent Lvia electrostatic interactions. Upon using POMOF-1 as a catalyst and H2O2 as an oxidant, a variety of amines could be effectively converted to value-added amides, imines and azobenzenes via the oxidative cross-coupling with alcohols or homo-coupling. In particular, POMOF-1 showed dramatically improved activity for the N-formylation reaction owing to the synergistic and confinement effect, with the yield of amides up to 95% and 4 times higher than that of homogeneous [CrMo6O18(PET)2]. Meanwhile, the oxidative homo-coupling of arylmethylamines and arylamines can be facilely tuned by adjustment of the amount of oxidant, solvent and additive, affording imines and azobenzenes in high selectivity and yield, respectively. POMOF-1 is robust and can be reused for 5 cycles with little loss of catalytic activity and structural integrity. The work demonstrates that the combination of catalytically active POMs with crystalline porous MOFs holds great potential to build robust and recyclable heterogeneous systems with enhanced activity and selectivity for multifunctional catalysis.

Improved Catalytic Performance toward Selective Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohols Originated from New Open-Framework Copper Molybdovanadate with a Unique V/Mo Ratio

A new organic-inorganic hybrid open-framework molybdovanadate with mixed-valences of vanadium (V4+ /V5+ =4/3) and molybdenum (Mo5+ /Mo6+ =8/2) cations has been synthesized. The complex possesses the unique V/Mo ratio (7/10), fascinating 8-C topological network and 1D 4-MR channels (7.793 Å×6.699 Å). Importantly, its catalytic activities for the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde (oxidant: H2 O2 , 30 wt %) have been well evaluated. The results indicated that it exhibited improved catalytic activities (conv.: 96.8 %) compared with the catalyst (Cpyr)5 PV2 Mo5 W5 O40 [conv.: 88.51 %, Cpyr=(C16 H32 C5 H4 N)+ )], high recyclability and structural stability. Moreover, the conversions and selectivities (conv.: 82.4-92.5 %; sele.: 91.5-95.7 %) of the substrates containing electron donating groups (-OH, -CH3 , -OCH3 and -Cl) were significantly higher than those of the substrate containing electron withdrawing group (-NO2 ) (conv. 67.4 %; sele.: 80.8 %). This is due to the fact that the -NO2 with a large Hammett substituent constant is not conducive to the generation of transition state products. The studies revealed the complex could act as a highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst in selective oxidation of benzyl alcohols.

A heteropolytungstate based 2D layered porous framework with high proton conductivity

A heteropolytungstate cluster [{Ru2O(bpy)2}2{Bi2W32O110}]10- (bpy = C10H8N2) was incorporated into a 2 : 1 type layered porous framework by interweaving the Na+ bridged cluster chains through the hydrogen bonding ability of the bpy ligands. It features multiple pore channels rich in hydrogen-bond network, contributing high conductivities > 10-2 S cm-1 at 298-358 K and 85% RH.

Revealing the Electrocatalytic Self-Assembly Route from Building Blocks into Giant Mo-Blue Clusters

The assembly of single-core molybdate into hundreds of cores of giant molybdenum blue (Mo-blue) clusters has remained a long-standing unresolved scientific puzzle. To reveal this fascinating self-assembly behavior, we demonstrate an aqueous flowing in-operando Raman characterization system to capture the building blocks' evolution from the "black box" reaction process. We successfully visualized the sequential transformation of Na2MoO4 into Mo7O246- ({Mo7}), high nuclear Mo36O1128- ({Mo36}) cluster, and finally polymerization product of [H6K2Mo3O12(SO4)]n ({Mo3(SO4)}n) during the H2SO4 acidification. Notably, the facile conversion of {Mo3(SO4)}n back to the {Mo36} cluster by simple dilution is also discovered. Furthermore, we identified {Mo36} and {Mo3(SO4)}n as exclusive precursors responsible for driving the electrochemical self-assembly of {Mo154} and {Mo102}, respectively. The study also unravels a pivotal intermediate, the pentagonal reduced state fragment [H18MoVI4MoVO24]-, originating from {Mo36}, which catalyzes the autocatalytic self-assembly of {Mo154} with electron and proton injection during electrochemical processes. Concurrently, {Mo3(SO4)}n serves as the indispensable precursor for {Mo102} formation, generating sulfation pentagon building blocks of [H2Na2O2(H4MoVMoVI4O16SO4)4]4- that facilitate the consecutive assembly of giant {Mo102} sphere clusters. As a result, a complete elucidation of the assembly pathway of giant Mo-blue clusters derived from single-core molybdate was obtained, and H+/e- redox couple is revealed to play a critical role in catalyzing the deassembly of the precursor, leading to the formation of thermodynamically stable intermediates essential for further self-assembly of reduced state giant clusters.

Insights into the self-assembly of giant polyoxomolybdates from building blocks to supramolecular structures

Giant polyoxomolybdates are a special class of polyoxometalate clusters which can bridge the gap between small molecule clusters and large polymeric entities. Besides, giant polyoxomolybdates also show interesting applications in catalysis, biochemistry, photovoltaic and electronic devices, and other fields. Revealing the evolution route of the reducing species into the final cluster structure and also their further hierarchical self-assembly behaviour is undoubtedly fascinating, aiming to guide the design and synthesis. Herein, we reviewed the self-assembly mechanism study of giant polyoxomolybdate clusters, and the exploration of a new structure and new synthesis methodology is also summarized. Finally, we emphasize the importance of in-operando characterization in revealing the self-assembly mechanism of giant polyoxomolybdates, and especially for the further reconstruction of intermediates into the designable synthesis of new structures.

Molecular hybrids of trivacant lacunary polyoxomolybdate and multidentate organic ligands

Functional molecular inorganic-organic hybrids of lacunary polyoxometalates and organic ligands attract much attention for advanced material applications. However, the inherent instability of lacunary polyoxomolybdates hinders the synthesis of hybrids and their utilization. Herein, we present a viable approach for the synthesis of molecular hybrids of trivacant lacunary Keggin-type polyoxomolybdates and multidentate organic ligands including carboxylates and phosphonates, which is based on the use of a lacunary structure stabilized by removable pyridyl ligands as a starting material.

Manipulating Ligand Density at the Surface of Polyoxovanadate-Alkoxide Clusters

We present the post-synthetic modification of a polyoxovanadate-alkoxide (POV-alkoxide) cluster via the reactivity of its cationic form, [V6O7(OCH3)12]1+, with water. This result indicates that cluster oxidation increases the lability of bridging methoxide ligands, affording a ligand exchange reaction that serves to compensate for the increased charge of the cluster core. This synthetic advance affords the isolation of a series of POV-alkoxide clusters with varying degrees of μ2-O2- ligands incorporated at the surface, namely, [V6O8(OCH3)11], [V6O9(OCH3)10], and [V6O10(OCH3)9]. Characterization of the POV-alkoxide clusters is described; changes in the infrared and electronic absorption spectra are consistent with the oxidation of the cluster core. We also examine the consequences of ligand substitution on the redox properties of the series of POV-alkoxide clusters via cyclic voltammetry; decreased alkoxide ligand density translates to a cathodic shift of analogous redox events. Ligand substitution also increases comproportionation constants of the Lindqvist core, indicating electron exchange between vanadium centers is promoted in structures with greater numbers of μ2-O2- ligands.

Waste dry cell derived photo-reduced graphene oxide and polyoxometalate composite for solid-state supercapacitor applications

In the modern era, realizing highly efficient supercapacitors (SCs) derived through green routes is paramount to reducing environmental impact. This study demonstrates ways to recycle and reuse used waste dry cell anodes to synthesize nanohybrid electrodes for SCs. Instead of contributing to landfill and the emission of toxic gas to the environment, dry cells are collected and converted into a resource for improved SC cells. The high performance of the electrode was achieved by exploiting battery-type polyoxometalate (POM) clusters infused on a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) surface. Polyoxometalate (K5[α-SiMo2VW9O40]) assisted in the precise bottom-up reduction of graphene oxide (GO) under UV irradiation at room temperature to produce vanadosilicate embedded photo-reduced graphene oxide (prGO-Mo2VW9O40). Additionally, a chemical reduction route for GO (crGO) was trialed to relate to the prGO, followed by the integration of a faradaic monolayer (crGO-Mo2VW9O40). Both composite frameworks exhibit unique hierarchical heterostructures that offer synergic effects between the dual components. As a result, the hybrid material's ion transport kinetics and electrical conductivity enhance the critical electrochemical process at the electrode's interface. The simple co-participation method delivers a remarkable specific capacity (capacitance) of 405 mA h g-1 (1622 F g-1) and 117 mA h g-1 (470 F g-1) for prGO-Mo2VW9O40 and crGO-Mo2VW9O40 nanocomposites alongside high capacitance retentions of 94.5% and 82%, respectively, at a current density of 0.3 A g-1. Furthermore, the asymmetric electrochromic supercapacitor crGO//crGO-Mo2VW9O40 was designed, manifesting a broad operating potential (1.2 V). Finally, the asymmetric electrode material resulted in an enhanced specific capacity, energy, and power of 276.8 C g-1, 46.16 W h kg-1, and 1195 W kg-1, respectively, at a current density of 0.5 A g-1. The electrode materials were tested in the operating of a DC motor.

Preparation, characterization, and removal of nitrate from water using vacant polyoxometalate/TiO2 composites

Due to the rapid development of industry and agriculture, nitrate pollution in groundwater has been continuously increasing. NO3-N is a chemically stable nitrogen species and is quite difficult to remove. In this study, using heteropoly silicotungstate K8[α-SiW11O39] and Cu2+ as the active components, SiW11 and Cu2+ were loaded onto TiO2 by a sol-gel method to prepare a composite photocatalyst SiW11/TiO2/Cu. The photocatalytic reduction of dissolved NO3-N was subsequently performed using SiW11/TiO2/Cu under UV irradiation, and the influence of different experimental parameters on the photocatalytic performance was investigated. The mechanism of NO3-N reduction by the composite catalyst was also investigated. Free radicals existing within the system were detected by ESR spectroscopy, and the results indicated that C O 2 - anion free-radicals were generated by the reaction of photogenerated holes and formic acid (HCOOH). At a SiW11/TiO2/Cu dose of 1.2 g L-1 and in the presence of HCOOH as a hole scavenger, the proposed composite catalytically reduced NO3-N anddemonstrated significantadvantages in terms of its photocatalytic activity in comparison with pure TiO2. In particular, the removal efficiency of NO3-N and the selectivity of nitrogen achieved a maximum of 96% and 77%, respectively.

Multifunctional Aryl Sulfonium Decavanadates: Tuning the Photochromic and Heterogeneous Oxidative Desulfurization Catalytic Properties Using Salicylaldehyde-type Functional Moieties on Counterions

Multifunctional materials based on polyoxovanadates (POVs) have rarely been reported. Herein, we used aryl sulfonium counterions (ASCIs) bearing a salicylaldehyde-type functionality to tune the properties of decavanadate ([V10O28]6-)-based hybrids for their application in photochromism and heterogeneous oxidative desulfurization (ODS) catalysis. The counterions FHPDS ((3-formyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)dimethylsulfonium), DFHPDS ((3,5-diformyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)dimethylsulfonium), and EFPDS ((4-ethoxy-3-formylphenyl)dimethylsulfonium) were clubbed with the decavanadate cluster to generate the hybrids (FHPDS)4[H2V10O28](H2O)4 (HY1), (DFHPDS)4[H2V10O28](H2O)3 (HY2), and (EFPDS)4[H2V10O28](H2O)6 (HY3). The photochromic properties of these hybrids were tested under 365 nm irradiation, which showed a color change from yellow to green. Different hybrids exhibited different photocoloration half-life (t1/2) values in the range of 0.77-28.38 min, suggesting the dependence of the photocoloration properties upon functional groups on the counterions. The hybrid HY2, having a 2,6-diformyl phenol moiety on the ASCI, exhibited an impressive t1/2 of 0.77 min. UP to 70% reversibility of photocoloration was achieved for the best photochromic hybrid HY2 in 48 h at 70 °C under an oxygen atmosphere. Theoretical and experimental data suggested that some of these aryl sulfonium POVs follow a different e--h+ stabilization mechanism than traditional sulfonium POM hybrids. Further, the salicylaldehyde-type ASCIs control the solubility of the decavanadate hybrids, which enables their application as heterogeneous catalysts for the selective oxidation of various sulfides. The nature of the substituents on the ASCIs also affected their catalytic activities; the counterion that facilitates the reversible V4+/V5+ switching enhances the catalytic ODS efficiency of the hybrids. Using HY2 as the catalyst, up to 99% conversion and 96% selectivity toward sulfones were achieved in dibenzothiophene (DBT) oxidation. The present study suggests a new promising approach for controlling POVs' photoresponsive and catalytic properties by using ASCIs bearing salicylaldehyde-type functional moieties.

Two 3D Two-Fold Interpenetrated Dia-Like Polyoxometalate-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks: Synthesis and Sulfide Selective Oxidation Activity

Two new three-dimensional (3D) polyoxometalate-based metal-organic frameworks (POMOFs), [M2(btap)4(H2O)4(HPMo10VI Mo2VO40)] (M = Co (1) and Cd (2); btap = 3, 5-bis(1', 2', 4'-triazol-1'-yl)pyridine), have been synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions and characterized in detail. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SXRD) analysis indicates that 1 and 2 are isostructural. In complexes 1 and 2, the metal ion is coordinated with the ligand to form two different left and right helical one-dimensional chains, which are alternately connected in a twisted form to build a two-fold interpenetrated three-dimensional structure, and the polyoxometalate is encapsulated into in the pores generated by the interpenetrating structure. It is noteworthy that 1 and 2, as recyclable catalysts, possess favorable heterogeneous catalytic activity and excellent sulfoxide selectivity in sulfide oxidation reactions, with H2O2 as an oxidant. By reason of the high dispersion of polyoxometalate with good intrinsic activity in the skeleton structure, the title complex has high activity. In addition, no obvious decrease of sulfoxide yield is observed after at least five cycles. These results indicate the excellent catalytic activity and sustainability of 1 and 2.

Synthesis and anti-HIV-1 activity evaluation of Keggin-type polyoxometalates with amino acid as organic cations

Polyoxometalates (POMs), as a class of multinuclear metal oxygen clusters, have promising biological activities. And their amino acid derivatives will lead to better pharmacological activity by the diversity in structures and properties. With reference to the anti-HIV-1 activities of PM-19 (K7PTi2W10O40) and its pyridinium derivatives, a series of novel Keggin-type POMs with amino acid as organic cations (A7PTi2W10O40) were synthesized by hydrothermal synthetic method. The final products were characterized by 1H NMR, Elemental analyzes and single crystal X-ray diffraction. All the synthesized compounds were obtained in the yields of 44.3-61.7% and evaluated the cytotoxicity and anti-HIV-1 activity in vitro. Compared with the reference compound PM-19, the target compounds had a lower toxicity to TZM-bl cells and a higher inhibitory activity against HIV-1. Among them, compound A3 showed higher anti-HIV-1 activity with IC50 of 0.11 nM than that of PM-19 with 4.68 nM. This study demonstrated that combination of Keggin-type POMs and amino acids can be a new strategy to enhance the anti-HIV-1 biological activity of POMs. All results will be expected to helpful for developing more potent and effective HIV-1 inhibitors.

[α-AsW9O33]9- bridged hexagonal clusters of Ln(III) showing field induced SMM behavior: experimental and theoretical insight

Polyoxometalates (POM), as inorganic polydentate oxygen donors, provide binding opportunities for oxophilic lanthanide metal centers to construct novel Ln-substituted POM materials with exciting structures and attractive properties. Herein, we have reported four arsenotungstate [α-AsW₉O₃₃]^9- based lanthanide-containing polyoxometalates [Cs_xK_36-x{Ln₆(H₂O)₁₂(α-AsW₉O₃₃)₆}]·yH₂O (Ln = Er (1), Gd (2), Ho (3), and Tb (4)), which are synthesized in an alkaline medium. Complexes 1-3 are the dimeric structures of [Ln₃(H₂O)₆(α-AsW₉O₃₃)₃]^18- polyanions, whereas complex 4 is a hexamer of the polyanion [Tb (H₂O)₂(α-AsW₉O₃₃)]^6- as a building unit. In all the complexes, [α-AsW₉O₃₃]^9- units are staggered up and down and give rise to the chair conformation, where one [α-AsW₉O₃₃]^9- unit bridges two Ln(III) centers through four μ₂-oxygen and two terminal oxygen atoms, resulting in the hexagonal arrangement of lanthanides. The dynamic magnetic measurement indicates that only complex 1 exhibits slow relaxation of magnetization with an applied dc field (1500 Oe). To gain insight into the slow relaxation of magnetization in complex 1, the ligand-field parameters and the splitting of the ground-state multiplet of the Er(III) ions have been estimated. The ab initio calculation results confirm that the ground state wave function of these molecules (1, 3, and 4) is mainly composed of a mixture of m_J states, and the non-axial crystal field (CF) terms are more predominant than the axial CF term. The solid-state fluorescence spectra of 1-4 reveal that the photoexcitation O → M ligand-to-metal charge-transfer (LMCT) of arsenotungstate fragments is effectively quenched due to the spatial coordination environment around the Ln(III) ion.

Surface-exposed silver nanoclusters inside molecular metal oxide cavities

The surfaces of metal nanoclusters, including their interface with metal oxides, exhibit a high reactivity that is attractive for practical purposes. This high reactivity, however, has also hindered the synthesis of structurally well-defined hybrids of metal nanoclusters and metal oxides with exposed surfaces and/or interfaces. Here we report the sequential synthesis of structurally well-defined {Ag₃₀} nanoclusters in the cavity of ring-shaped molecular metal oxides known as polyoxometalates. The {Ag₃₀} nanoclusters possess exposed silver surfaces yet are stabilized both in solution and the solid state by the surrounding ring-shaped polyoxometalate species. The clusters underwent a redox-induced structural transformation without undesirable agglomeration or decomposition. Furthermore, {Ag₃₀} nanoclusters showed high catalytic activity for the selective reduction of several organic functional groups using H₂ under mild reaction conditions. We believe that these findings will serve for the discrete synthesis of surface-exposed metal nanoclusters stabilized by molecular metal oxides, which may in turn find applications in, for example, the fields of catalysis and energy conversion.

Complex phase transitions and phase engineering in the aqueous solution of an isopolyoxometalate cluster

Inorganic salts usually demonstrate simple phasal behaviors in dilute aqueous solution mainly involving soluble (homogeneous) and insoluble (macrophase separation) scenarios. Herein, we report the discovery of complex phase behavior involving multiple phase transitions of clear solution - macrophase separation - gelation - solution - macrophase separation in the dilute aqueous solutions of a structurally well-defined molecular cluster [Mo₇O₂₄]^6- macroanions with the continuous addition of Fe³⁺. No chemical reaction was involved. The transitions are closely related to the strong electrostatic interaction between [Mo₇O₂₄]^6- and their Fe³⁺ counterions, the counterion-mediated attraction and the consequent charge inversion, leading to the formation of linear/branched supramolecular structures, as confirmed by experimental results and molecular dynamics simulations. The rich phase behavior demonstrated by the inorganic cluster [Mo₇O₂₄]^6- expands our understanding of nanoscale ions in solution.

Pore "Softening" and Emergence of Breathability Effects of New Keplerate Nano-Containers

The self-assembly of porous molecular nanocapsules offer unique opportunities to investigate a range of interesting phenomena and applications. However, to design nanocapsules with pre-defined properties, thorough understanding of their structure-property relation is required. Here, we report the self-assembly of two elusive members of the Keplerate family, [Mo132 Se60 O312 (H2 O)72 (AcO)30 ]42- {Mo132 Se60 } 1 and [W72 Mo60 Se60 O312 (H2 O)72 (AcO)30 ]42- {W72 Mo60 Se60 } 2, that have been synthesised using pentagonal and dimeric ([Mo2 O2 Se2 ]2+ ) building blocks and their structures have been confirmed via single crystal X-ray diffractions. Our comparative study involving the uptake of organic ions and the related ligand exchange of various ligand sizes by the {Mo132 Se60 } and previously reported Keplerates {Mo132 O60 }, {Mo132 S60 } based on the ligand exchange rates, revealed the emergence of increased "breathability" that dominates over the pore size as we transition from the {Mo132 S60 } to the "softer" {Mo132 Se60 } molecular nano-container.

Exploring the Reactivity of Polyoxometalates toward Proteins: From Interactions to Mechanistic Insights

The latest advances in the study of the reactivity of metal-oxo clusters toward proteins showcase how fundamental insights obtained so far open new opportunities in biotechnology and medicine. In this Perspective, these studies are discussed through the lens of the reactivity of a family of soluble anionic metal-oxo nanoclusters known as polyoxometalates (POMs). POMs act as catalysts in a wide range of reactions with several different types of biomolecules and have promising therapeutic applications due to their antiviral, antibacterial, and antitumor activities. However, the lack of a detailed understanding of the mechanisms behind biochemically relevant reactions-particularly with complex biological systems such as proteins-still hinders further developments. Hence, in this Perspective, special attention is given to reactions of POMs with peptides and proteins showcasing a molecular-level understanding of the reaction mechanism. In doing so, we aim to highlight both existing limitations and promising directions of future research on the reactivity of metal-oxo clusters toward proteins and beyond.

Controllable Transition Metal-Directed Assembly of [Mo2O2S2]2+ Building Blocks into Smart Molecular Humidity-Responsive Actuators

Smart molecular actuators have become a cutting-edge theme due to their ability to convert chemical energy into mechanical energy under external stimulations. However, realizing actuation at the molecular level and elucidating the mechanisms for actuating still remain challenging. Herein, we design and fabricate a novel nanoscaled polyoxometalate-based humidity-responsive molecular actuator {Bi₈Mo₄₈} through the assembly of [Mo₂O₂S₂]²⁺ units, transition metals, and flexible phosphonic acid ligands. {Bi₈Mo₄₈} exhibits a semi-flexible cage-like architecture with oxygen-rich surfaces and highly negative charges 72-. The nanoscaled molecular actuator shows reversible expansion and contraction behavior under humidity variations due to lattice expansion and contraction induced by hydrogen bonding and solvation interactions between {Bi₈Mo₄₈} and water molecules. Molecular dynamics simulation was further employed to study these processes, which provides a fundamental understanding for the mechanism of humidity actuation at the molecular level.

Cadmium-containing windmill-like heteropolyoxoniobate macrocycle with high yield for catalyzing Knoevenagel condensation

A rare cadmium-containing windmill-like heteropolyoxoniobate macrocycle has been successfully synthesized with stable 1-D cyclic cluster aggregates. The compound exhibited promising basic catalytic ability for Knoevenagel condensation with a high yield under mild reaction conditions and high cycling stability. The theoretical calculation showed that the promising basic catalytic ability is due to the dense and stronger basic sites of the surface terminal O atoms.

Automated Library Generation and Serendipity Quantification Enables Diverse Discovery in Coordination Chemistry

Library generation experiments are a key part of the discovery of new materials, methods, and models in chemistry, but the question of how to generate high quality libraries to enable discovery is nontrivial. Herein, we use coordination chemistry to demonstrate the automation of many of the workflows used for library generation in automated hardware including the Chemputer. First, we explore the target-oriented synthesis of three influential coordination complexes, to validate key synthetic operations in our system; second, the generation of focused libraries in chemical and process space; and third, the development of a new workflow for prospecting library formation. This involved Bayesian optimization using a Gaussian process as surrogate model combined with a metric for novelty (or serendipity) quantification based on mass spectrometry data. In this way, we show directed exploration of a process space toward those areas with rarer observations and build a picture of the diversity in product distributions present across the space. We show that this effectively "engineers" serendipity into our search through the unexpected appearance of acetic anhydride, formed in situ, and solvent degradation products as ligands in an isolable series of three Co(III) anhydride complexes.

A {Co9}-Added Polyoxometalate for Efficient Visible-Light-Driven Hydrogen Evolution

A polyanion cluster H₆Na₈Cs₃[Co₉(μ₃-OH)₃(H₂O)₆(HPO₄)₂(B-α-PW₉O₃₄)₃]Cl·40H₂O (1) was made with the guidance of the lacunary directing strategy under hydrothermal conditions. Compound 1 was characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, powder X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses showed that 1 consists of three anions [B-α-PW₉O₃₄]^9- and a cyclic cationic [Co₉(μ₃-OH)₃(H₂O)₆]¹⁵⁺ and two anions HPO₄^2-. Variable-magnetic properties indicate antiferromagnetic interactions in 1. Visible-light-driven hydrogen evolution tests demonstrated that 1 was an efficient water reduction catalyst with an H₂ evolution rate of 1217.6 μmol h^-1 g^-1.

Recent Advances in Hybrid Materials of Metal Nanoparticles and Polyoxometalates

Polyoxometalates (POMs), anionic metal-oxygen nanoclusters that possess various composition-dependent properties, are widely used to modify the existing properties of metal nanoparticles and to endow them with new ones. Herein, we present an overview of recent advances in hybrid materials that consist of metal nanoparticles and POMs. Following a brief introduction on the inception of this area and its development, representative properties and applications of these materials in various fields such as electrochemistry, photochemistry, and catalysis are introduced. We discuss how the combination of two classic inorganic materials facilitates cooperative and synergistic behavior, and we also give personal perspectives on the future development of this field.

Phosphotungstic Acid-treated Picrosirius Red Staining Improves Whole-slide Quantitative Analysis of Collagen in Histological Specimens

We tried to prevent nonspecific nuclear staining (NS-NS) of picrosirius red (PSR) staining by treating the specimens with one of the heteropoly acids phosphotungstic acid (PTA). We analyzed a total of 35 cases of non-cancerous liver tissue for fibrosis and NS-NS under PSR-alone, phosphomolybdic acid (PMA)-pretreated PSR (PMA + PSR), or PTA-pretreated PSR (PTA + PSR) condition. In addition, we analyzed the photosensitivity of PMA or PTA single stain specimens. PTA + PSR significantly suppressed NS-NS compared with PSR. The color of the specimens did not change into blue by 30 times the exposure to whole slide scanner (WSS) light. The PTA + PSR condition showed the highest correlation with the Ishak score (pathological evaluation of liver fibrosis) compared with other conditions. Furthermore, Sirius Red-positive percentage (SRP%) in PSR was increased in the NS-NS observed cases. SRP% in PMA + PSR was significantly affected by WSS light exposure time. Moreover, the deposition of non-polarized PSR-stained substances (NP-PSR+S) clinging to the collagen fibers potentially explains why SRP% seemed bigger under PSR than PTA + PSR. Our protocol enabled us to analyze the whole slide image of PSR staining by high magnification, which would contribute to the accurate analysis of collagen amount in the tissue sections.

Proton-Conductive Polyoxometalate Architectures Constructed from Lanthanide-Incorporated Polyoxoniobate Cages

Two new extended polyoxometalate (POM) architectures based on lanthanide-incorporated polyoxoniobate (Ln-incorporated PONb) cages, namely, H₄[Cu^II(en)₂]₄{K₄(H₂O)₂[Cu^II(en)₂]₅[Cu^II₅(trz)₂(en)₄(OH)₂][Dy₂Cu^II₂(en)₂(CO₃)₃(H₂O)₂(OH)₃][Dy(H₂O)₄][DyNb₂₃O₆₈(H₂O)₄]₂}·60H₂O (1, en = ethylenediamine) and H₂₀[Cu^II(en)₂]₄{[Cu^II(en)₂]₄[Dy₂(C₂O₄)(H₂O)₄]₂[(Nb₃₂(OH)₄(H₂O)₃O₈₉]₂}·54H₂O (2), have been successfully synthesized and structurally characterized, demonstrating a feasible strategy to develop functional POM materials. In addition, the proton conductivity and magnetic behaviors of both 1 and 2 were studied.

Nanomedicine in the Face of Parkinson's Disease: From Drug Delivery Systems to Nanozymes

The complexity and overall burden of Parkinson's disease (PD) require new pharmacological approaches to counteract the symptomatology while reducing the progressive neurodegeneration of affected dopaminergic neurons. Since the pathophysiological signature of PD is characterized by the loss of physiological levels of dopamine (DA) and the misfolding and aggregation of the alpha-synuclein (α-syn) protein, new proposals seek to restore the lost DA and inhibit the progressive damage derived from pathological α-syn and its impact in terms of oxidative stress. In this line, nanomedicine (the medical application of nanotechnology) has achieved significant advances in the development of nanocarriers capable of transporting and delivering basal state DA in a controlled manner in the tissues of interest, as well as highly selective catalytic nanostructures with enzyme-like properties for the elimination of reactive oxygen species (responsible for oxidative stress) and the proteolysis of misfolded proteins. Although some of these proposals remain in their early stages, the deepening of our knowledge concerning the pathological processes of PD and the advances in nanomedicine could endow for the development of potential treatments for this still incurable condition. Therefore, in this paper, we offer: (i) a brief summary of the most recent findings concerning the physiology of motor regulation and (ii) the molecular neuropathological processes associated with PD, together with (iii) a recapitulation of the current progress in controlled DA release by nanocarriers and (iv) the design of nanozymes, catalytic nanostructures with oxidoreductase-, chaperon, and protease-like properties. Finally, we conclude by describing the prospects and knowledge gaps to overcome and consider as research into nanotherapies for PD continues, especially when clinical translations take place.

Visible Light Induced Ag-Polyoxometalate Coassembly into Single-Cluster Nanowires

1D superlattices with long-ranged periodicity present extraordinary application properties due to their unique electronic structures. Here, the visible light driven synthesis of 1D single-cluster chains constructed by polyoxometalate (POM) and Ag clusters is reported, where two types of clusters align alternatively along the nanowire. Low symmetrical POM clusters of [P₂ W₁₇ O₆₁ ]^10- , [P₂ W₁₅ O₅₆ ]^12- , and [EuW₁₀ O₃₆ ]^9- can be used as building blocks. The directly bonding cluster units result in interactive electronic structures of Ag and POM clusters, as well as the greatly promoted electron transfer during the redox reaction. The Ag-P₂ W₁₇ nanowires perform significantly enhanced activities in both electrochemical sensing and catalytic gasoline desulfurization compared with individual building blocks, demonstrating the extraordinary application properties and promising potentials of cluster-based heteroconstructions.