ALBERT

Description: Global threats such as climate change, population growth, and rapid urbanization pose a huge future challenge to water management, and, to ensure the ongoing reliability, resilience and sustainability of service provision, a paradigm shift is required. This paper presents an overarching framework that supports the development of strategies for reliable provision of services while explicitly addressing the need for greater resilience to emerging threats, leading to more sustainable solutions. The framework logically relates global threats, the water system (in its broadest sense), impacts on system performance, and social, economic, and environmental consequences. It identifies multiple opportunities for intervention, illustrating how mitigation, adaptation, coping, and learning each address different elements of the framework. This provides greater clarity to decision makers and will enable better informed choices to be made. The framework facilitates four types of analysis and evaluation to support the development of reliable, resilient, and sustainable solutions: “top-down,” “bottom-up,” “middle based,” and “circular” and provides a clear, visual representation of how/when each may be used. In particular, the potential benefits of a middle-based analysis, which focuses on system failure modes and their impacts and enables the effects of unknown threats to be accounted for, are highlighted. The disparate themes of reliability, resilience and sustainability are also logically integrated and their relationships explored in terms of properties and performance. Although these latter two terms are often conflated in resilience and sustainability metrics, the argument is made in this work that the performance of a reliable, resilient, or sustainable system must be distinguished from the properties that enable this performance to be achieved.

Description: Cellulosic materials, including regenerated cellulose, are promising precursors for a variety of carbon materials. However, thermal decomposition, typically accompanying carbonization at high temperatures, hinders cellulosic materials from being efficiently carbonized (i.e., very low carbon yields). Herein, this study presents a new and efficient method for the preparation of porous 2D carbon materials from sheet-like cellulosic materials, such as papers and fabrics, involving a catalyzed chemical reaction at high temperatures without thermal decomposition. Thus, cellulosic materials are treated with sulfonic acid solutions and significantly dehydrated at high temperatures via evaporation of water. As a result, black materials are obtained at a weight near the theoretical carbon content of cellulose and remain in the carbonized materials. The as-obtained porous 2D carbon materials are flexible and suitable for a wide range of applications such as in electrodes and gas absorbents. Carbonized fabrics have good mechanical and electrical properties , and these properties are enhanced by heat-treatments at higher temperatures. In this paper handy porous 2D carbon materials are prepared from MSA-treated sheetlike cellulosic materials via a chemical carbonization method without thermal decomposition at high temperatures.

Description: Graphene oxide flexibly supported MoO 2 porous architectures (MoO 2 /GO) by decomposition of the prepared ammonium molybdate/GO preforms is fabricated. Focused ion beam microscope analysis shows that the inside structures of the architectures strongly depend on the percentages of the GO used as flexible supports: micrometer scale MoO 2 particulates growing on the GO (micrometer MoO 2 /GO), 3D honeycomb-like nanoarchitectures (MoO 2 /GO nanohoneycomb), and layered MoO 2 /GO architectures are achieved at the percentage of GO at 4.3, 15.2, and 20.8 wt%, respectively. The lithium storage performance of the MoO 2 /GO architectures strongly depends on their inside structures. At the current density of 100 mA g −1 , the capacities of the micrometer MoO 2 /GO, MoO 2 /GO nanohoneycomb, and layered MoO 2 /GO remain at 901, 1127, and 967 mAh g −1 after 100 cycles. The average coulombic efficiencies of micrometer MoO 2 /GO, MoO 2 /GO nanohoneycomb, and layered MoO 2 /GO electrodes are 97.6%, 99.3%, and 99.0%. Moreover, the rate performance shows even cycled at a high current density of 5000 mA g −1 , the MoO 2 /GO nanohoneycomb can deliver the capacity as high as 461 mAh g −1 . The MoO 2 /GO nanohoneycomb exhibits best performance attributed to its unique nanohoneycomb structure constructed with ultrafine MoO 2 fixed on the GO flexible supports. MoO 2 /graphene oxide (GO) architectures are achieved by decomposition of the prepared ammonium molybdate/GO preforms. The nanohoneycomb-like nanoarchitectures are achieved at the optimized ratio with high MoO 2 loading 84.8 wt%. The Li-ion storage capability is significantly improved attributed to their unique nanohoneycomb architectures constructed with ultrafine MoO 2 fixed on the GO flexible supports.

Description: This study describes a novel sustainable concept for the scalable direct fabrication and functionalization of nanocellulose from wood pulp with reduced energy consumption. A central concept is the use of metal-free small organic molecules as mediators and catalysts for the production and subsequent versatile surface engineering of the cellulosic nanomaterials via organocatalysis and click chemistry. Here, “organoclick” chemistry enables the selective functionalization of nanocelluloses with different organic molecules as well as the binding of palladium ions or nanoparticles. The nanocellulosic material is also shown to function as a sustainable support for heterogeneous catalysis in modern organic synthesis (e.g., Suzuki cross-coupling transformations in water). The reported strategy not only addresses obstacles and challenges for the future utilization of nanocellulose (e.g., low moisture resistance, the need for green chemistry, and energy-intensive production) but also enables new applications for nanocellulosic materials in different areas. A novel sustainable concept for the scalable direct fabrication and functionalization of nanocellulose from wood pulp with reduced energy consumption is presented. A central concept is the use of metal-free small organic molecules as mediators and catalysts for the production and subsequent versatile surface engineering of the cellulosic nanomaterials via organocatalysis and click chemistry.

Description: Solbergfoss Hydropower Plant is one of several run-of-the-river plants developed in a cascade on the main stem in the lower part of Glomma river, the longest river in Norway, all benefitting from the same upstream regulations. Water consumption from hydropower production is primarily due to evaporation from reservoir surfaces, hence reducing the annual flow downstream. At the same time reservoirs increase the water availability in dry periods. In article number 1600018 by Tor Haakon Bakken,* Ånund Killingtveit, and Knut Alfredsen the state of art within this field of science is reviewed. The review revealeds a wide range of estimates and a meteorology that does not capture all the specifics of hydropower technology.

Description: Many people who are concerned about the issue of climate change do not engage in the collective action behaviors that are most likely to lead to societal-scale solutions. Such attitude-behavior inconsistency is a well-documented phenomenon. This study investigates whether exposure to an effectively framed message from a highly credible source can increase the consistency between attitudes and activism behaviors among people with pre-existing strong attitudes, particularly for behaviors that are less difficult. The release of Pope Francis' climate change encyclical, Laudato Sí , and subsequent visit to the United States provide an opportunity to test this research question in a natural field setting. A nationally representative, within-subject panel survey was conducted two months prior to the release of the encyclical and again four months later, after the release and papal visit, to assess the impact of the Pope's message on Americans' climate change consumer and political advocacy behaviors. Among people who are already concerned about climate change, higher exposure to the Pope's climate change message is associated with increases in attitude-behavior consistency for less difficult activism behaviors. The findings suggest that sustained exposure to compelling climate messages from trusted sources can increase the performance of activism behaviors. Pope Francis is a powerful voice for climate change action. This study tests whether his climate leadership, specifically through his encyclical Laudato Si' and his visit to the United States in the summer of 2015, inspire collective action among Americans already concerned about climate change.

Description: The cover picture shows the solid state battery where graphene oxide (GO) is used as proton conducting solid electrolyte. Respective discharge capacity and power density of the cell is found to be 360 μA h and 19.5 mW kg −1 at a constant current drain of 3 μA under experimental condition. GO based proton conductors as solid electrolyte are cleaner, cheaper and fascicle alternative for applications with low energy feedback. More information can be found in article number 1700054 by Yuta Shudo, Md. Saidul Islam, Mohammad Razaul Karim, Nurun Nahar Rabin, Kosuke Wakata, Ryo Ohtani, Masaaki Nakamura, Leonard F. Lindoy, and Shinya Hayami*.

Description: Frugal innovations have recently emerged to feature low-cost technologies and business innovations to serve consumers in emerging markets and improve their quality of life. Although the concept of frugality is well known, the present literature on frugal energy innovations, or energy frugality, is scarce, which could lead to overlooking its true characteristics. Therefore, we propose a framework for defining energy frugality based on a detailed analysis of several low-cost sustainable energy technologies. The five-criteria assessment method developed will help to identify potential frugal energy innovations and will increase the adoption of these technologies through better matching to local needs. Fuel-efficient biomass cooking stoves, small-scale photovoltaic systems, and pico-grids are examples of such frugal energy technologies. Impact Statement The research conducted addresses the global energy challenge through the frugality concept, which represents a novel and affordable way to provide services to people living in developing countries. Energy frugality is based on effective use of local renewable energy and other resources. Here, we present a framework for identifying and developing frugal energy innovations. Wide dissemination of this concept may alleviate global energy poverty in a sustainable manner.

Description: Pine needles are used as the precursor material to prepare hard carbon. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and N 2 adsorption–desorption tests are carried out to characterize the surface, crystal, and pore structure of the material. The pine needle derived carbon (PNC) exhibits excellent Na-ion storage ability. A dual-ion battery of PNC/graphite using a Na + -based organic electrolyte is constructed. The batteries display outstanding electrochemical performance: a superior energy density (200 Wh kg −1 at 131 W kg −1 ), high cut-off voltage (4.7 V), and outstanding cycling stability (87.2% retention after 1000 cycles). In addition, the separate responses of the cathode and anode are investigated. Pine needles, a kind of biomass waste , are used to synthesize hard carbon, which is applied as an anode in a sodium-based dual-ion battery. The battery exhibits outstanding performance with a high cut-off potential, impressive capacity, and good cycle performance and may be a kind of promising electric energy storage device that can be used in portable electronics and electric vehicles.

Description: A major pathway for heavy metal exposure in contaminated areas is via consumption of locally produced food. This study investigated the accumulation of lead in Chinese cabbage grown in contaminated soils and estimated the weekly dietary intake. Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of different growth times, concentrations, and lead species (carbonate, nitrate, and sulfide) on the uptake of lead in shoots. Results show that Chinese cabbage accumulated up to 38 mg kg −1 in the shoots. There was a significant difference in lead uptake by plants grown in soils with 400 mg kg −1 (Upper Critical Limit: UCL) and those grown in 600 mg kg −1 (Above Critical Limit: ACL) lead concentrations. However, there was no significant difference in the ACL shoots despite the different growth period. The cabbages grown for eight weeks (at UCL) had four times more lead than those grown for four weeks. The elemental form also affected lead uptake with the lead sulfide (mineral form) having the least uptake and lead carbonate (solution) having the highest. Calculated weekly dietary intake levels of lead were higher (above 0.28 mg kg −1 per human body weight) than the recommended levels for human consumption (0.025 mg kg −1 per human body weight). Heavy metal contamination of food is a global concern. Due to the local reliance on food produced in contaminated areas, it is imperative to know the contamination levels and quantities that can be consumed before these foods become detrimental to human health. This study focuses on accumulation of lead in Chinese cabbage and calculates the weekly dietary intake limits of consumption.

Description: This paper reviews published estimates of water consumption from hydropower production and the methodologies applied. Published values range from negative to more than 115 000 m 3 MWh −1 . Most gross water consumption rates are in the range 5.4–234 m 3 MWh −1 , while most net values are in the range 0.2–140 m 3 MWh −1 . Net values are often less than 40% of the gross values, sometimes only 1% of the gross water consumption estimates. The extremely wide range in estimates is explained by an inconsistent methodology and the very site-specific nature of hydropower projects. Scientific challenges, such as allocation from multipurpose reservoirs, and spatial assignments in river basins with several hydropower plants, affect the results dramatically and remain unresolved. As such, it is difficult to propose “typical values” for water consumption from hydropower production. This paper points out directions of research in order to prepare a consistent and improved methodology for the calculation of water consumption from hydropower projects. This should take into account the role of reservoirs in the provision of a large range of water services, as well as providing regulated power to the energy system. This paper reviews published estimates of water consumption from hydropower production and the methodology behind these numbers. The review reveals very large variations, explained by an inconsistent methodology and the very site-specific nature of hydropower projects. We also argue that there is a lack of understanding of the role of reservoirs in water resources management and in the energy system.

Description: This study is conducted to assess the quality of harvested rainwater. Rooftop rainwater samples are collected between April and September 2015 from Ugbihioko village near Benin City, Nigeria. Heavy metal concentration and physicochemical quality are determined with the use of standard analytical techniques for water quality, and the results are compared to the World Health Organization (WHO) acceptable limits for drinking water. Of the different water quality parameters, the results show that temperature is within WHO drinking water standards for all locations, but pH, turbidity, sulfate, chloride, and nitrate concentrations vary considerably and do not meet the standards for all locations. Regarding the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC), electrical conductivity is well below the MAC for all cases; the heavy metals copper and iron are above the MAC for all cases; the light metals sodium and potassium are below the MAC for all cases. Lead is above the MAC for all locations, except for in one location; and selenium varied, with some sites having selenium concentrations above the MAC. The results from this study show that public health education or advising is vital for mitigating the possible risks that can be linked to the use of harvested rainwater without treatment. This study is conducted to assess the heavy metal content and physicochemical quality of collected rainwater for domestic purposes. The results from this study show the potential risk of some physicochemical and heavy metals in rainwater. These results underscore the need for public health education to mitigate the risk associated with using untreated rainwater for drinking and other domestic functions.

Description: Harvesting thermal energy from arbitrary directions has become an exciting theoretical possibility. However, an exact 3D thermal energy harvester is still challenging to achieve for the stringent requirement of highly anisotropic and symmetrical structures with homogenous materials, as well as absence of effective characterization. In this Communication, a flower-shaped thermal harvesting metamaterial is originally promoted. Numerical simulations imply that heat flux can be concentrated into the target core and a temperature gradient turns out to be more than two times larger than the applied one without obvious distortion or perturbation to the temperature profile outside the concentrator. Temperature transitions of the actual device are experimentally measured to validate the novel structure with consistency of the simulated results with original methods. With ultraefficiency independent of geometrical size, the flower-shaped thermal harvester facilitates multiple scale energy harvesting with splendid efficient and might help to improve thermoelectric devices efficiency in a totally new perspective. A flower-shaped thermal harvesting metamaterial is originally promoted and fabricated. Numerical simulations and experiments mutually agree with each other well and imply that heat flux can be concentrated into the target core and a temperature gradient turns out to be more than two times larger than the applied one without obvious distortion or perturbation to the temperature profile outside the concentrator.

Description: The threat of catastrophic incidents—from nonroutine events to extreme ones, such as Dragon-Kings (DK), Black Swans (BS), and Gray Swans—induces precautionary initiatives that, before the fact, may encounter public resistance or after the fact recriminations. This study develops three aspects of these events: (1) generating mechanisms, (2) the statistical distributions of near and far-term consequences, and (3) the aggregation of expert opinions about assumptions, mechanisms, and consequences that informs science-policy. This study shows how causal analysis should account for the: (1) nonlinear catastrophic behaviors that generate predictions, (2) common and power-law distributions of the consequences, (3) self-organizing criticality and self-similarity, and (4) feedbacks and couplings between mechanisms that produce snaps, crackles, and pops as precursor, warning signals. The distribution of the consequences associated with catastrophic incidents has longer and fatter right tails than those expected from failure analysis based on known nonroutine events. DK are extreme events that deviate from these fat tail distributions, have a much higher frequency than expected, and can be predicted unlike BS. This shows how to combine divergent expert individual beliefs over assumptions, causation, and results, and a paradox that affects agreements obtained by majority rule. Catastrophes characterized by fat tails distribution : Dragon-Kings (DK), Black Swans (BS), and Gray Swans (GS). This study discusses the analysis of precautionary initiatives induced by DK, BS, and GS. Their predictions are affected by chaotic and other physical behaviors. Expert opinions on scientific aspect should involve voting on premises, causality, and results.

Description: Graphene oxide (GO) shows high proton conductivity (≈10 −4 Scm −1 ), excellent mechanical stability, and electrical insulation property, which makes it an ideal candidate for use as a proton conducting solid state electrolyte. The prospects of using GO as single phase solid electrolyte in an all solid battery is presented herein. A battery with the cell configuration: Zn + ZnSO 4 •7H 2 O + graphite (anode) || GO (electrolyte) || MnO 2 + graphite (cathode) is fabricated. Cyclic voltammetry confirms its rechargeable nature. The respective discharge capacity and power density of the cell are 360 μAh and 19.5 mW kg −1 at a constant current drain of 3 μA under the experimental conditions employed. GO based proton conductors are cleaner and cheaper than other solid electrolytes. The current study strongly suggests that GO can be used as a practical and beneficial component in solid state battery applications with low energy feedback. All solid state battery is fabricated by incorporating graphene oxide electrolyte. Respective discharge capacity and power density of the cell is found to be 360 μAh and 19.5 mW kg −1 at a constant current drain of 3 μA.

Description: Cellulosic materials including regenerated cellulose are able to be carbonized without thermal decomposition through sulphonic acid treatments before carbonization. Carbon materials having high carbon yields which are near to the theoretical carbon content of cellulose molecules are obtained. Electrical and mechanical properties of carbonized papers and fabrics are very good and are enhanced by heat-treatments at higher temperatures. More information can be found in in article number 1700061 by Mutsumasa Kyotani,* Kazuhisa Hiratani, Tatsuhiro Okada, Satoshi Matsushita, and Kazuo Akagi.

Description: Used tea leaves are utilized for preparation of carbon with high surface area and electrochemical properties. Surface area and pore size of tea leaves derived carbon are controlled by varying the amount of KOH as activating agent. The maximum surface area of 2532 m 2 g −1 is observed, which is much higher than unactivated tea leaves (3.6 m 2 g −1 ). It is observed that the size of the electrolyte ions has a profound effect on the energy storage capacity. The maximum specific capacitance of 292 F g −1 is observed in 3 m KOH electrolyte with outstanding cyclic stability, while the lowest specific capacitance of 246 F g −1 is obtained in 3 m LiOH electrolyte at 2 mV s −1 . The tea leaves derived electrode shows almost 100% capacitance retention up to 5000 cycles of study. The symmetrical supercapacitor device shows a maximum specific capacitance of 0.64 F cm −2 at 1 mA cm −2 and about 95% of specific capacitance is retained after increasing current density to 12 mA cm −2 , confirming the high rate stability of the device. An improvement over 35% in the charge storage capacity is seen when increasing device temperature from 10 to 80 °C. The study suggests that used tea leaves can be used for the fabrication of environment friendly high performance supercapacitor devices at a low cost. Waste tea leaves are utilized for preparation of high performance supercapacitor device. Tea leaves derived electrode shows high specific capacitance (292 F g −1 ) and almost 100% capacitance retention up to 5000 cycles of study. The work provides a direct path for utilization of waste tea leaves for eco-friendly, high performance, and durable supercapacitor which can even work better at elevated temperatures.

Description: A sustainable concept for the scalable direct fabrication and functionalization of nanocellulose with reduced energy consumption is disclosed. A central part is the use of small organic molecules as catalysts and mediators for the production and subsequent versatile surface modification of the cellulosic nanomaterials with catalysts, biologically active, fluorescent and hydrophobic molecules. More information can be found in in article number 1700045 by Samson Afewerki, Rana Alimohammadzadeh, Sinke H. Osong, Cheuk-Wai Tai, Per Engstrand, and Armando Córdova*.

Description: High aspect ratio TiO 2 nanoflakes are synthesized by a one-step modified surface hydrolysis method. Surface morphology and physical dimensions are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, laser diffraction analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. Microsized flakes having a thickness ≈40 nm are successfully synthesized by spreading an oil phase consisting of titanium tetraisopropoxide and a low surface tension hydrocarbon on the surface of water. Pure anatase phase crystalline titania nanoflakes are obtained by calcining at 400 °C without changing the shape and thickness of flakes. Relatively higher specific surface area (2–6 times) and less crystal defects enhance photocatalytic activities of nanoflakes due to more surface reaction sites and the suppression of fast recombination. By performing dye degradation under ultraviolet illumination, titania nanoflakes exhibit the higher photocatalytic efficiency over the commercial photocatalyst, Degussa P25. As far as it is known, this method is the most efficient and cost effective process for making low-dimensional nanomaterials in a continuous manner. These titania flakes can be easily separated from the treated water by simply sedimentation or filtration and therefore is very suitable for water purification application. High aspect ratio TiO 2 nanoflakes are synthesized by a one-step modified surface hydrolysis method. The large surface tension difference between the bulk water and an oil phase consisting of titanium alkoxide and hydrocarbon results in the formation of microsized flakes with a thickness ≈40 nm.

Description: Recent advances in engineering lead to the fabrication of nanomaterials with unique properties targeted toward specific applications. The use of nanotechnology in agriculture, in particular for plant protection and production, is an under-explored area in the research community. Fungal diseases are one of the leading causes of crop destruction and, in this context, the antifungal effect of nanoparticles of cobalt and nickel ferrite against phytopathogenic fungi is reported here. As a proof of concept, it is also shown how such nanoparticles can be used as fungicides in plants. The developed cobalt and nickel ferrite nanoparticles (CoFe 2 O 4 and NiFe 2 O 4 ) are successfully tested for antimycotic activity against three plant-pathogenic fungi: Fusarium oxysporum, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides , and Dematophora necatrix . In addition, it is also observed that these ferrite nanoparticles reduce the incidence of Fusarium wilt in capsicum. The study suggests that nanoparticles of CoFe 2 O 4 and NiFe 2 O 4 can be used as an effective fungicide in plant disease management. This work develops nickel and cobalt ferrite nanoparticles for use in agriculture as potential nanofungicides. The results demonstrate antimycotic activity of nanoparticles against three plant-pathogenic fungi: Fusarium oxysporum, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides , and Dematophora necatrix . In addition, it is also observed that these nanoparticles reduce the incidence of Fusarium wilt in capsicum.

Description: To meet the requirement of fuel cells and metal–air batteries, non-noble metal catalysts have to be developed to replace precious platinum-based catalysts. Herein, Co nanoclusters (≈2 nm) are anchored on nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (Co/N-r-GO) by using DUT-58 (Co) metal–organic framework and GO as precursors. Compared with single-atom catalysts usually with ultralow concentration (〈0.5 wt%), Co nanoclusters are more beneficial to break the O O bond to ensure four electronic way for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), since they can provide more adsorption centers for reactants. Therefore, as expected, the sample with 6.67 wt% Co content (Co/N-r-GO-5%-850) exhibits better ORR activity with a higher half-wave potential of 0.831 V, a more positive onset potential of 0.921 V than Pt/C, and a comparable limiting current density in alkaline medium. The Co nanoclusters enhance the catalytic performance for ORR in three aspects: quantum size effects, metal–support interactions, and low-coordination environment of metal centers. Furthermore, the sample is assembled into a zinc–air battery as the outstanding durable ORR catalyst. It displays a higher specific capacity (795 mAh g −1 at the current density 50 mA cm −2 ) and power density (175 mW cm −2 ) than Pt/C (731 mAh g −1 and 164 mW cm −2 , respectively). The catalyst, Co clusters (≈2 nm), anchored on nitrogen-doped porous graphitized carbon is prepared through pyrolysis of N-rich metal (Co) organic framework (DUT-58) and graphene oxide composite in N 2 atmosphere. It exhibits better oxygen reduction reaction activity and long-term stability than Pt/C in alkaline medium. Furthermore, this catalyst-based zinc–air battery also displays an outstanding durability and excellent performance.

Description: Chlorine is a large-scale chemical commodity produced via the chloralkali process, which involves the electrolysis of brine in a membrane-based electrochemical reactor. The reaction is normally driven by grid electricity; nevertheless, the required combination of voltage–current can be guaranteed using renewable power (i.e., photovoltaic electricity). This study demonstrates an off-grid solar-powered chlorine generator that couples a novel planar solar concentrator, multijunction InGaP/GaAs/InGaAsNSb solar cells and an electrochemical cell fabricated via additive manufacturing. The planar solar concentrator consists of an array of seven custom injection-molded lenses and uses microtracking to maintain a ± 40° wide angular acceptance. Triple-junction solar cells provide the necessary potential (open-circuit voltage, V OC = 3.16 V) to drive the electrochemical reactions taking place at a De Nora DSA insoluble anode and a nickel cathode. This chloralkali generator is tested under real atmospheric conditions and operated at a record 25.1% solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency (SCE). The device represents the proof-of-principle of a new generation stand-alone chlorine production system for off-grid utilization in remote and inaccessible locations. Chlorine is a chemical of vast utilization , currently generated via electrochemical routes, which accounts for a great amount of energy consumption. Powering the process with multijunction photovoltaics (coupled with an innovative planar solar concentrator) has proven to result in ultrahighly efficient operation. This approach paves the way toward chlorine industry decarbonization and practical off-grid solar-chlorine generator, which can sanitize water in remote locations.

Description: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of 2015 form a universal and integrated policy agenda to be realized over the next 15 years. One of the targets is the attainment of policy coherence for sustainable development, which requires the individual goals to become interlinked. This article's main research interest lies in assessing how national governments and their competent ministries interpret and strive to implement the target of policy coherence for sustainable development. Drawing on the Voluntary National Reviews submitted in 2016 and 2017 by six countries, this study shows that at the national level, the links among the different goals and the idea of policy integration are subject to divergent interpretations. The differences observed do not stem from the interlinkages of the SDGs as defined by the United Nations, neither do they result from different levels of income or degree of political centralization. Instead, the respective domestic policy-making processes are likely to explain the implementation strategies adopted by the individual states. For example, the implementation approach adopted by the government of Turkey suggests that path-dependency is critical, whereas the Colombian approach consists of defining new policy measures and institutional arrangements. In this study, the approaches adopted by six countries for implementing the Sustainable Development Goals are analyzed. It is shown that there is variation with regard to whether the countries formulate specific priority areas, adopt a multi- or intersectoral approach to policy integration, and whether the policy approach consists of procedural or substantive instruments.

Description: Humanity faces tremendous challenges as a result of anthropogenic climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions. The mix of resources deployed in order to meet the energy needs of a growing global population is key to addressing the climate change issue. The goal of this research is to examine the optimal mix of energy resources that should be deployed to meet a forecast global energy demand while still meeting desired climate targets. The research includes the unique feature of examining the role that geoengineering can play in this optimization. The results show that some form of geoengineering is likely to be needed by the middle of the 21st century as part of the optimal energy strategy in order to meet a specified climate goal of 580 ppm CO 2 -eq greenhouse gas concentration (or ≈2 °C average global temperature rise). The optimal energy mix would need to rely on energy efficiency, nuclear, geothermal, hydro, and wind energy for over 50% of global energy needs. In addition, the overall cost of the optimal energy mix is sensitive to the assumed amount of achievable energy efficiency, carbon taxes, deployment of electric vehicles, and the assumed discount rate. A unique analysis of what an optimal mix of global energy resources might be for the 21st century while staying within a 2 °C global temperature rise. It includes the potential role geoengineering can play as a means of meeting desired climate targets while minimizing the overall cost of the global energy system.

Description: The cover picture shows a high-performance supercapacitor device where carbon derived from waste tea leaves was used as an active material for energy storage. Tea leaves derived electrode showed high specific capacitance, energy and power density with almost 100% capacitance retention upto 5,000 cycles of study. This work provides a direct path for recycling bio-waste for environment-friendly, low-cost, high-performance and durable energy storage devices. More information can be found in article number 1700063 by Sanket Bhoyate, Charith K. Ranaweera, Chunyang Zhang, Tucker Morey, Megan Hyatt, Pawan K. Kahol, Madhav Ghimire, Sanjay R. Mishra and Ram K. Gupta*.

Description: Noncommunicable chronic diseases (NCCDs) are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. The mismatch between present day diets and ancestral genome is suggested to contribute to the NCCDs burden, which is promoted by traditional risk factors like unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, alcohol and tobacco. However, epigenetic evidence now suggests that cumulatively inherited epigenetic modifications may have made humans more prone to the effects of present day lifestyle factors. Perinatal starvation was widespread in the 19th century. This together with more recent events like increasing consumption of western and low fiber diets, smoking, harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity, and environmental pollutants may have programed the human epigenome for higher NCCDs risk. In this review, on the basis of available epigenetic data it is hypothesized that transgenerational effects of lifestyle factors may be contributing to the current global burden of NCCDs. Thus, there is a need to reconsider prevention strategies so that the subsequent generations will not have to pay for our sins and those of our ancestors. Noncommunicable chronic diseases cause significant morbidity and mortality, and traditional risk factors like unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, alcohol, and tobacco are thought to be the main drivers. However, epigenetic evidence suggests that cumulatively inherited epigenetic modifications may have made humans more prone to the effects of present day lifestyle factors. In this review, it is hypothesized that cumulative epigenetic influences may contribute toward shaping chronic disease risk profiles.

Description: This study proposes the design of a micro-spiral-shaped piezoelectric energy harvester that scavenges energy from blood pressure variation in the cardiac cycle. The harvester can be a miniaturized perennial source of power that could even eliminate the need for replacement of conventional batteries used in current pacemaker technology. The concept of a 25 µm thin spiral-based piezoelectric energy harvester with a diameter of 6 mm satisfying the dimensional constraints has been proposed. A number of lead-free materials have been used along with Pb[Zr x Ti 1− x ]O 3 (PZT-5A) to compare the performance. The harvester has been designed in such a way that the natural frequency of the structure remains in the range of 1.1–1.3 Hz, which is equivalent to 66–78 heart beats min −1 of humans. The obtained alternating electric current from piezoelectric materials is converted into direct current. The maximum open-circuit voltage obtained is ≈0.9 V, which is not sufficient for charging a pacemaker battery. Therefore, boost converter circuit is employed to step up the voltage. It is found that K 0.475 Na 0.475 Li 0.05 (Nb 0.92 Ta 0.05 Sb 0.03 )O 3 (KNLNTS) has the best performance as compared to other materials under study. The boosted voltage obtained from KNLNTS is ≈6 and ≈7 V for 80 and 90% duty cycle, respectively, which are sufficient for pacemaker battery charging. The present study proposes a novel spiral based piezoelectric energy harvester that harnesses the energy from the blood pressure variation in cardiac cycle. The main objective of the study is to eliminate the need for battery replacement. The electrical AC voltage obtained from the harvester is converted into DC and amplified using suitable circuits for practical application.

Description: Making sound food and agriculture decisions is important for global society and the environment. Experts tend to view crop genetic engineering, a technology that can improve yields and minimize impacts on the environment, more favorably than the public. Because there is a causal relationship between public opinion and public policy, it is important to understand how opinions about genetically engineered (GE) crops are influenced. The public increasingly seeks science information on the Internet. Here, semantic network analysis is performed to characterize the presentation of the term “GMO (genetically modified organism),” a proxy for food developed from GE crops, on the web. Texts from three sources are analyzed: U.S. federal websites, top pages from a Google search, and online news titles. We found that the framing and sentiment (positive, neutral, or negative attitudes) of “GMO” varies across these sources. It is described how differences in the portrayal of GE food by each source might affect public opinion. A current understanding of the types of information individuals may encounter online can provide insight into public opinion toward GE food. In turn, this knowledge can guide teaching and communication efforts by the scientific community to promote informed decision-making about agricultural biotechnologies. Web results : A computational approach known as semantic network analysis is used to create visual representations of the way in which “GMO (genetically modified organism),” a proxy for genetically engineered (GE) food, is represented in distinct areas of the Internet. This study empirically shows that the presentation of GE food differs dramatically between sources, including Google search, news titles, and federal webpages.

Description: In order to prepare the magnetic adsorbent, polymerization of pyrrole is performed in a mixture containing Fe 3 O 4 and FeCl 3 . FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDAX, BET and VSM techniques are employed to characterize the synthesized adsorbent. The results indicate that a homogeneous film of polypyrrole is formed on the surface of magnetic material. The synthesized adsorbent uptakes 173.16 mg g −1 of Hg 2+ from aqueous solution, which is superior to the previously reported results for a similar adsorbent. Magnetic performance of the adsorbent is sufficient to separate the used adsorbent from the solution by use of a magnetic bar placed outside of the vessel. Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Redlich–Peterson, and Sips isotherm models are employed to evaluate the experimental adsorption data. The kinetic models are studied and the experimental data are described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The calculated thermodynamic parameter shows that the sorption process is endothermic and spontaneous. Regeneration of the used adsorbent indicates that more than 90% of the initial capacity remains after regeneration. A magnetic polypyrrole adsorbent is prepared, characterized, and used for removal of Hg 2+ . The optimized uptake of 173.16 mg g −1 of Hg 2+ is obtained, which is superior to previously reported values. Magnetic capability of the adsorbent is sufficient for magnetic separation of the used adsorbent. After regeneration, the used adsorbent retains more than 90% of its initial capacity.

Description: Microbial burden associated with medical devices poses serious health challenges and is accountable for an increased number of deaths leading to enormous medical costs. Catheter-associated urinary tract infections are the most common hospital-acquired infections with enhanced patient morbidity. Quite often, catheter-associated bacteriuria produces apparent adverse outcomes such as urosepsis and even death. Taking this into account, the methods to modify urinary catheters to control microbial infections with relevance to clinical drug resistance are systematically evaluated in this review. Technologies to restrict biofilm formation at initial stages by using functional nanomaterials are elucidated. The conventional methodology of using single therapeutic intervention for developing an antimicrobial catheter lacks clinically meaningful benefit. Therefore, catheter modification using naturally derived antimicrobials such as essential oils, curcumin, enzymes, and antimicrobial peptides in combination with synthetic antibiotics/nanoantibiotics is likely to exert sufficient inhibitory effect on uropathogens and is extensively discussed. Futuristic efforts in this area are projected here that demand clinical studies to address areas of uncertainty to avoid development of bacterial resistance to the new generation therapy with minimum discomfort to the patients. In this review, the modification of urinary catheters for infection control that can serve as the gateway to a new face of the future in the field of human healthcare is discussed. The innovation is related to the discussion of novel strategies for catheter functionalization with use of several synthetic and natural antimicrobial agents including biopolymeric hydrogels and herbal nanoantibiotics.

Description: The cover image depicts a wilted tree with (bottom) and without (top) nanoferrite coating. The tree with the coating revives, while the leaves shred off without the coating. The image highlights the need to develop nanomaterial-based fungicides to protect plants, addressing a global challenge of saving plant life. Further details can be found in article number 1700041 by Parul Sharma, Adikshita Sharma, Monica Sharma, Nikhil Bhalla,* Pedro Estrela, Aditya Jain, Preeti Thakur, and Atul Thakur*.

Description: Humanity faces tremendous challenges as a result of anthropogenic climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions. The mix of resources deployed in order to meet the energy needs of a growing global population is key to addressing the climate change issue. The goal of this research is to examine the optimal mix of energy resources that should be deployed to meet a forecast global energy demand while still meeting desired climate targets. The research includes the unique feature of examining the role that geoengineering can play in this optimization. The results show that some form of geoengineering is likely to be needed by the middle of the 21st century as part of the optimal energy strategy in order to meet a specified climate goal of 580 ppm CO 2 -eq greenhouse gas concentration (or ≈2 °C average global temperature rise). The optimal energy mix would need to rely on energy efficiency, nuclear, geothermal, hydro, and wind energy for over 50% of global energy needs. In addition, the overall cost of the optimal energy mix is sensitive to the assumed amount of achievable energy efficiency, carbon taxes, deployment of electric vehicles, and the assumed discount rate. A unique analysis of what an optimal mix of global energy resources might be for the 21st century while staying within a 2 °C global temperature rise. It includes the potential role geoengineering can play as a means of meeting desired climate targets while minimizing the overall cost of the global energy system.

Description: The application of niobium oxides as photocatalytic materials for the removal of contaminants is scarcely reported in the literature. This work reports the methodology to synthesize four different mesoporous niobium oxide materials and the correlation between the physicochemical properties and the photocatalytic activity. X-ray diffraction, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), transmission electron microscopy, and nitrogen adsorption techniques are used to characterize the structure and composition of the obtained materials. The photocatalytic oxidation of methanol is used as reaction test to assess the photocatalytic activities and photonic efficiencies of the materials as a function of the catalyst concentration. Nb 2 O 5 materials display lower reaction rates, which can be attributed to the relatively high average particle size. By contrast, NaNbO 3 materials show higher activity, especially for high catalyst loading. No significant differences in absorption and scattering of light are observed among the materials, indicating that the higher photonic efficiency of NaNbO 3 should be the result of a lower charge recombination derived from its microstructure, sodium composition, low particle size, and high specific surface area of these materials. Different mesoporous niobium oxide materials are synthesized and their photocatalytic activity correlated with their physicochemical properties. The oxidation of methanol is used as reaction test to assess the photonic efficiencies of the materials. Nb 2 O 5 materials display lower reaction rates. By contrast, NaNbO 3 materials show higher activity, especially for high catalyst loading.

Description: Battery safety has been of critical concerns and there are renewed interest in developing safer membranes for enhancing the inherent safety of lithium ion batteries. In this paper, the synthesis of a robust and safer self-reinforced composite ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) membrane is described. The self-reinforced composite membrane consists of ≈200 nm nanopores homogeneously embedded inside interpenetrating nanofibrillar “shish kebab” networks. It performs thermal fuse function by selectively melting its kebab crystals while the elongated shish fibrillary backbones remain intact. Simulated thermal fuse function tests show that the newly prepared separator displays a 300% increase in tensile strength (550 MPa), 300% increase in puncture resistance (1.5 N μm −1 ), as well as an 18 000 times increase in impedance when lateral dimensions are kept constant. Cells prepared using the UHMWPE separators also exhibit a 10% higher energy density and better cyclability than those using commercial separators. Hence, the newly prepared ultrathin and dimensionally stable membrane will enhance the safety protections for rechargeable batteries with low impedance for high energy and power density. Separators are the most critical safety component in rechargeable batteries. HKUST's new safer separator offers the safety solution by displaying tensile strengths higher than stainless steel upon thermal fuse activation. Besides, batteries using these new separators show no charge/discharge hysteresis and display at least 10% higher energy density than those using commercial separators.

Description: Medical application of siRNAs relies on methods for delivering nucleic acids into the cytosol. Synthetic carriers, which assemble with nucleic acids into delivery systems, show promises for cancer therapy but efficiency remains to be improved. In here, the effectiveness of pyridylthiourea-polyethylenimine (πPEI), a siRNA carrier that favors both polyplex disassembly and endosome rupture upon sensing the acidic endosomal environment, in 3 experimental models of hepatocellular cancer is tested. The πPEI-assisted delivery of a siRNA targeting the polo-like kinase 1 into Huh-7 monolayer produces a 90% cell death via a demonstrated RNA interference mechanism. Incubation of polyplex with Huh-7 spheroids leads to siRNA delivery into the superficial first cell layer and a 60% reduction in spheroid growth compared to untreated controls. Administration of polyplexes into mice bearing subcutaneous implanted Huh-7Luc tumors results in a reduced tumor progression, similar to the one observed in the spheroid model. Altogether, these results support the in vivo use of synthetic and dedicated polymers for increasing siRNA-mediated gene knockdown, and their clinical promise in cancer therapeutics. Translation of siRNA delivery system performance from in vitro to in vivo tumor models remains elusive. The antiproliferating activities of a polyplex containing an siRNA targeting the polo-like kinase and pyridylthiourea-grafted polyethylenimine in three preclinical models of liver cancer consisting of cell monolayer, spheroid, and xenograft in mice are reported.

Description: The UK government has proposed different low-carbon energy system options that lead to meeting its greenhouse gas emissions target of 80% reduction on 1990 levels by 2050. While these energy system options meet emission targets at feasible economic cost, water requirement for the deployment of the proposed energy technology mix is not adequately accounted for. This may become critical, as some of the proposed energy technologies are relatively more water-intensive, and could result in significant future water resource constraints. Previous studies have analyzed the potential water resource constraints of future energy systems in the UK at national scale. However, water must be considered as a local resource with significant regional variability. This paper uses a linear spatial-downscaling model to allocate water-intensive energy system infrastructure/technologies at catchment level, and estimates water requirements for the deployment of these technologies for the Committee on Climate Change Carbon Budgets in 2030. The paper concludes that while national-scale analysis shows minimal long-term water related impacts, catchment level appraisal of water resource requirements reveals significant constraints in some locations. This has important implications for regions where the water-energy nexus must be analyzed at appropriate spatial resolution to capture the full water resource impact of national energy policy. Energy system trajectories in the UK Carbon Budgets to 2030 project minimal water resource impacts nationally. However, catchments such as the Trent and Thames can face significant future water resource challenges due to increased water resource requirements for thermal electricity generation from carbon capture and storage and gas, highlighting the need to conduct water-energy assessments at appropriate regional scales.

Description: 3D-interconnected, porous sponges of ultra-soft elastomer were utilized as smart interfaces for the controlled permeation of oils by mechanically deformation, such as stretching or compressing. With this strategy, an oil skimmer was developed for selective collection of oil spills from water (see picture). More details can be found in the article number 1600014 by Yaoyao Li, Deyong Zhu, Stephan Handschuh-Wang, Guanghui Lv, Jiahui Wang, Tianzhen Li, Cancheng Chen, Chuanxin He, Junmin Zhang, Yizhen Liu, Bo Yang, and Xuechang Zhou*.

Description: Passive solar vapor generation represents a promising and environmentally benign method of water purification/desalination. However, conventional solar steam generation techniques usually rely on costly and cumbersome optical concentration systems and have relatively low efficiency due to bulk heating of the entire liquid volume. Here, an efficient strategy using extremely low-cost materials, i.e., carbon black (powder), hydrophilic porous paper, and expanded polystyrene foam is reported. Due to the excellent thermal insulation between the surface liquid and the bulk volume of the water and the suppressed radiative and convective losses from the absorber surface to the adjacent heated vapor, a record thermal efficiency of ≈88% is obtained under 1 sun without concentration, corresponding to the evaporation rate of 1.28 kg (m 2 h) −1 . When scaled up to a 100 cm 2 array in a portable solar water still system and placed in an outdoor environment, the freshwater generation rate is 2.4 times of that of a leading commercial product. By simultaneously addressing both the need for high-efficiency operation as well as production cost limitations, this system can provide an approach for individuals to purify water for personal needs, which is particularly suitable for undeveloped regions with limited/no access to electricity. Solar vapor generation with no electrical input is a promising and environmentally benign solution, and has become a topic of increasing interest in recent years. Here, an efficient system utilizing extremely low-cost carbon-based material is developed to realize simultaneous vapor generation and water purification to produce drinking water for personal use. This is particularly attractive for addressing global freshwater shortages.

Description: In order to meet the global demand for lithium-ion batteries, salt lakes have been targeted as a source of lithium. However, extracting lithium from brine that contains a high Mg/Li ratio is a challenge due to the similar chemical properties of Mg 2+ and Li + . In article number 1700079 by Zhongwei Zhao and co-workers, a novel electrochemical cell is used to extract lithium from brine with high selectivity: LiFePO 4 (anode) | NaCl solution | anion exchange membrane | brine |FePO 4 (cathode). The system demonstrates good cycling performance, effective lithium enrichment, low cost, and use of environmentally friendly materials, making it a practical means to address the issue of lithium extraction.

Description: Land pollution is a threat to sustainable agricultural development and food security in developing countries. Consumption of farm products from contaminated areas can generate health hazards to the diverse consumers along the food chain through the different pollutants in the products. This study is designed to determine the accumulation of Pb, Cd, and Fe in topsoil, surface water, and maize leaf, stem, grains, and root, cultivated in a garden nearby Ori-Ile battery waste dumpsite, Omilende Area, Olodo, Nigeria. Soil samples, garden maize parts, and surface water samples are collected from the study area using standard procedures. Corresponding reference samples are collected from Moor Plantation, Ibadan. All collected samples are analysed for Pb, Cd, and Fe concentrations. Mean Pb, Cd, and Fe concentrations in topsoil are found to be significantly higher than 157.0 ± 39.8, 2.2 ± 1.2, and 976.3 ± 353.9 mg kg −1 , respectively, which are obtained from reference soil and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency limits (Pb: 164 mg kg −1 and Cd: 50 mg kg −1 ). The soil contamination factor values obtained are greater than 6, indicating severe pollution. Downstream has the highest Pb, Cd, and Fe concentrations. In maize parts, the root has the highest concentration of Pb (40.95 ± 1.98 mg L −1 ) and Cd (2.84 ± 0.19 mg L −1 ), which are significantly higher ( p ≤ 0.05) than those from the reference site. A high concentration of heavy metals found in topsoil further bio-accumulates in maize parts. Consequently, this garden maize is unfit for consumption. The Pb, Cd, and Fe accumulation in topsoil, surface water, and in the leaf, stem, grains and roots of maize grown in a garden around Ori-Ile battery waste dumpsite, Olodo, Nigeria is determined by using AAS to measure their concentration in different samples obtained. A significant concentration of these metals was found in all samples. Thus, Ori-Ile maize is unfit for consumption by residents.

Description: Environmental decision support systems (EDSSs) are attractive tools to cope with the complexity of environmental global challenges. Several thoughtful reviews have analyzed EDSSs to identify the key challenges and best practices for their development. One of the major criticisms is that a wide and generalized use of deployed EDSSs has not been observed. The paper briefly describes and compares four case studies of EDSSs applied to the water domain, where the key aspects involved in the initial conception and the use and transfer evolution that determine the final success or failure of these tools (i.e., market uptake) are identified. Those aspects that contribute to bridging the gap between the EDSS science and the EDSS market are highlighted in the manuscript. Experience suggests that the construction of a successful EDSS should focus significant efforts on crossing the death-valley toward a general use implementation by society (the market) rather than on development. Efforts must be focused on the use and transfer to market step to deal with the key challenges contributing on bridging the gap between a good academic environmental decision support systems and a good market tool with a generalized use and/or implementation: Problem ownership and end user engagement, longevity and financial sustainability, and trust and evaluation.

Description: Effectively addressing climate change requires significant changes in individual and collective human behavior and decision-making. Yet, in light of the increasing politicization of (climate) science, and the attempts of vested-interest groups to undermine the scientific consensus on climate change through organized “disinformation campaigns,” identifying ways to effectively engage with the public about the issue across the political spectrum has proven difficult. A growing body of research suggests that one promising way to counteract the politicization of science is to convey the high level of normative agreement (“consensus”) among experts about the reality of human-caused climate change. Yet, much prior research examining public opinion dynamics in the context of climate change has done so under conditions with limited external validity. Moreover, no research to date has examined how to protect the public from the spread of influential misinformation about climate change. The current research bridges this divide by exploring how people evaluate and process consensus cues in a polarized information environment. Furthermore, evidence is provided that it is possible to pre-emptively protect (“inoculate”) public attitudes about climate change against real-world misinformation. This research investigated if and how public understanding of the scientific consensus on human-caused climate change can be protected (“inoculated”) against influential misinformation. Results from a large survey experiment indicate that public perceptions of the scientific consensus can be effectively inoculated against misinformation across the political spectrum.

Description: No abstract is available for this article.

Description: Beginning in March 2014, West Africa has endured the largest outbreak of Ebola viral disease (EVD) in history. The crisis highlighted the role of China in addressing public health emergencies of international concern (PHEIC). Through bilateral and multilateral channels, China kicked off its largest ever humanitarian mission in addressing a PHEIC. The unprecedented generosity served the domestic needs to prevent EVD from spreading into China, but it was also consistent with China's foreign policy objective to pursue soft power in Africa. While its total funding to EVD control in West Africa was no match of top donors like the United States, it becomes much more impressive when adjusted for gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. As Beijing becomes more sensitive to disease outbreaks overseas and as the scope of its humanitarian engagement grows and diversifies, the space for China's cooperation with international actors over global health governance is expected to further expand. Beginning in March 2014, West Africa has endured the largest outbreak of Ebola viral disease (EVD) in history. The crisis highlighted the role of China in addressing public health emergencies of international concern (PHEIC). Through bilateral and multilateral channels, China kicked off its largest ever humanitarian mission in addressing a PHEIC. The graph shows the amount of Ebola aid/GDP per capita for donor countries. China's contribution becomes much more impressive if adjusted according to GDP per capita.

Description: At the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris in 2015 ambitious targets for responding to the threat of climate change have been set: limiting global temperature increase to “well below 2 °C […] and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 °C”. However, calculating the CO 2 budget for 1.5 °C, it becomes clear that there is nearly no room left for future emissions. Scenarios suggest that negative emission technologies will play an even more important role for 1.5 °C than they already play for 2 °C. Especially against this background the feasibility of the target(s) is hotly debated, but this debate does not initiate the next steps that are urgently needed. Already the negotiations have featured the move from targets to implementation which is needed in the coming decade. Most importantly, there is an urgent need to develop and implement instruments that incentivize the rapid decarbonization. Moreover, it needs to be worked out how to link the climate and development agenda and prevent a buildup of coal power causing lock-in effects. Short term entry points into climate policy should now be in the focus instead of the fruitless debate on the feasibility of targets. At the United Nations climate change conference in Paris in 2015, the climate targets have been fixed with 2 °C as focal point and 1.5 °C as aspirational target. However, calculating the carbon budget for 1.5 °C shows that there is nearly no room left for future emissions. Policy instruments that incentivize sustainable infrastructure investments are therefore of utmost importance.

Description: The shortage of freshwater and sanitation is one of the most pervasive challenges afflicting people throughout the world. It is essential to develop technologies for disinfection and decontamination of water, and to increase water supplies through economic and sustainable ways. Dr. Qiaoqiang Gan's group developed an efficient system utilizing extremely low-cost carbon-based materials to realize simultaneous vapor generation and water purification to produce drinking water for personal use. The cover image conceptually illustrates the impact of the proposed system in addressing global freshwater shortages. More details can be found in the article number 1600003 by Zhejun Liu, Haomin Song, Dengxin Ji, Chenyu Li, Alec Cheney, Youhai Liu, Nan Zhang, Xie Zeng, Borui Chen, Jun Gao, Yuesheng Li, Xiang Liu, Diana Aga, Suhua Jiang, Zongfu Yu, and Qiaoqiang Gan*.

Description: This study describes the fabrication of bioinspired mechano-regulated interfaces (MRI) for the separation and collection of oil spills from water. The MRI consists of 3D-interconnected, microporous structures of sponges made of ultrasoft elastomers (Ecoflex). To validate the MRI strategy, ecoflex sponges are first fabricated with a low-cost sugar-leaching method. This study then systematically investigates the absorption capacity (up to 1280% for chloroform) of the sponges to different oils and organic solvents. More importantly, the oil flux through the as-made sponges is controlled by mechanical deformation, which increases up to ≈33-fold by tensile strain applied to the sponge from 0 to 400%. On the basis of MRI, this study further demonstrates the application of ecoflex sponges in oil skimmers for selective collecting oil from water with high efficiency and durable recyclability. The as-developed MRI strategy has opened a new path to allow rational design and dynamical control toward developing high performance devices for oil permeation and selective collection of oil spills from water. Mechano-regulated interfaces (MRIs) with 3D-interconnected, microporous sponges of ultrasoft elastomers are utilized as smart interfaces for rationally designed and dynamically controlled permeation by mechanically deformation, such as stretching or compressing. On the basis of MRI, an oil skimmer is developed for selective collection of oil spills from water.

Description: Electrospun nonwovens loaded with the anti-Malaria drug Artemisone could be utilized as most efficient carrier without direct patient contact by infusion systems. The electrospun nonwovens allow high loading of Artemisone and excellent mass transfer. Drug release rate and dose could be controlled by choice of infusion media and infusion rate. Details can be found in the article number 1600011 by Amir Reza Bagheri, Seema Agarwal, Jacob Golenser, and Andreas Greiner*.

Description: Malnutrition is a global challenge with huge social and economic costs; nearly every country faces a public health challenge, whether from undernutrition, overweight/obesity, and/or micronutrient deficiencies. Malnutrition is a multisectoral, multi-level problem that results from the complex interplay between household and individual decision-making, agri-food, health, and environmental systems that determine access to services and resources, and related policy processes. This paper reviews the theory and recent qualitative evidence (particularly from 2010 to 2016) in the public health and nutrition literature, on the role that agriculture plays in improving nutrition, how food systems are changing rapidly due to globalization, trade liberalization, and urbanization, and the implications this has for nutrition globally. The paper ends by summarizing recommendations that emerge from this research related to (i) knowledge, evidence, and communications, (ii) politics, governance, and policy, and (iii) capacity, leadership, and financing. A mother tends to her village garden in Burkina Faso. This review addresses the global challenge presented by agriculture–nutrition disconnects that prevail in many countries. The authors comprehensively review the theory and evidence related to agriculture and food systems and their relationship to, and impact on, nutrition outcomes, not only in relation to undernutrition but also regarding increasing problems of overweight and obesity. The paper applies a framework to characterize enabling (or disabling) environments for nutrition and to structure a set of key recommendations on how to, practically and more effectively, leverage agriculture and food systems for nutrition.

Description: The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) within the interlayer space of transparent layered titania nanosheet (TNS) films is investigated. A considerable number of silver ions (≈70% against the cation exchange capacity of the TNS) are intercalated in the TNS films using methyl-viologen-containing TNSs as a precursor. The silver ion (Ag + )-containing TNS films are treated with aqueous sodium tetrahydroborate (NaBH 4 ), resulting in a gradual color change to bright blue. Various structural analyses clearly show that crystalline AgNPs are generated within the interlayer space of the TNSs. The NaBH 4 -treated films show intense and characteristic near-infrared (NIR) extinction spectra up to 1800 nm. The stability of the AgNPs within the TNS against oxygen and moisture is also investigated, and 96% and 82% of the AgNPs remain after standing in air for 1 month and 1 year, respectively. The NIR extinctions of the AgNP-containing TNS films are further extended by employing different preparation procedures, for example, using sintered TNS films as starting materials and irradiating the Ag + -containing TNSs with ultraviolet (UV) light. The obtained AgNP-containing TNS films exhibit photochemical activities in the production of hydrogen from ammonia borane under visible-light irradiation and the decomposition of nitrogen monoxide under UV-light irradiation. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles within the interlayer spaces of layered titanate films and their optical and photochemical characteristics are investigated. The films show intense extinction from the visible to the near-infrared region and exhibit good stability in air. The films exhibit photochemical activities for hydrogen production from amminetrihydridoboron and nitric oxide decomposition.

Description: An approach for underground, deep, and turbid water remediation is presented based on optical fibers with a photocatalytic coating. Thus, photocatalytic TiO 2 P25 nanoparticles immobilized in a poly(vinylidene difluoride) (PVDF) matrix are coated on polymeric optical fibers (POFs) and the photocatalytic performance of the system is assessed under artificial sunlight. To the best of our knowledge, poly(methyl methacrylate)-POF coated with TiO 2 /PVDF and the reusability of any type of POF for photocatalytic applications are not previously reported. The photocatalytic efficiency of the hybrid material in the degradation of ciprofloxacin (CIP) and its reusability are evaluated here. It is shown that 50 w/w% of TiO 2 P25 achieves a degradation of 95% after 72 h under artificial sunlight and a reusability of three times leads to a loss of activity inferior to 11%. The efficient removal of ciprofloxacin and the stability of the POF coated with TiO 2 P25 successfully demonstrate its suitability in the degradation of pollutants with potential application in regions with low light illumination, as in underground and deep water. For the first time, the immobilization of photocatalytic titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles in a polymer (PVDF) onto the surface of polymeric optical fibers is shown. This material combines the practicability of the optical fibers to transport radiation, the chemical resilience of the PVDF coating, and the catalytic properties of TiO 2 nanoparticles into a single reusable material.

Description: Hydrophobically modified acrylamide copolymers dewater oil sands tailings more effectively than anionic polyacrylamide, but the root causes for this enhanced performance have not been investigated systematically. Polyacrylamide-poly(ethylene oxide methyl ether methacrylate) copolymers with different comonomer compositions, hydrophobic chain lengths, and molecular weights to map out these effects systematically are synthetized. Through a statistical design of experiments, it is found out that all three variables above significantly affected flocculation performance and that certain combinations achieve optimal results. The effect of centrifugation on the flocculation and dewatering performance of these polymers is also investigated. This study proposes to dewater oil sands mature fine tailings (MFT) using hydrophobically modified copolymers of acrylamide, poly(acrylamide- co -ethylene oxide methyl ether methacrylate). Dewatering of MFT is systematically studied as a function of comonomer content, hydrophobic chain lengths, and copolymer molecular weight.

Description: In article number 1700124 , Pedro M. Martins, Senentxu Lanceros-Méndez, and co-workers show for the first time the immobilization of photocatalytic titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles in a polymer (PVDF) onto the surface of polymeric optical fibers, which can be applied in environmental decontamination. The optical fibers not only act as a material of light transportation but also an immobilization matrix for the PVDF/TiO 2 composite, thus radiation and the photocatalytic effect are provided by the same material. The immobilization of TiO 2 in the polymer improves the stability of the coating and consequently its reusability, which is important for practical applications. As light is transmitted through the fibers until the end tip, remote environments deployed of light access, as it is the case of soil and deep water, can be reached and decontaminated. This work combines the practicability of the optical fibers to transport radiation, the chemical resilience of the PVDF coating, and the catalytic properties of TiO 2 into a single material.

Description: Molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ), a type of transition metal dichalcogenide material, has emerged as an important class among 2D systems. When 2D MoS 2 materials are reduced to 0D quantum dots (QDs), they introduce new optical properties that point to several potential technological advantages in electronic, magnetic, optical, and catalytic properties. In this study, a simple way to produce chiral MoS 2 QDs from MoS 2 nanopowder is presented using l (+)-ascorbic acid as a reducing agent. The calculated quantum yield of QDs is 11.06%. Experimental results reveal that the size of QDs is uniformly monodispersed (2–3 nm) and have a blue emissive fluorescence peak and circular dichroism (CD) peak located at 420 and 330 nm, respectively. Furthermore, a dual-mode detection system based on fluorescence and chirality is performed using as-synthesized MoS 2 QDs, where QDs are conjugated with anti-hemagglutinin antibodies of avian influenza virus and made into an immunobridge in the presence of target virus and anti-neuraminidase antibodies conjugated magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). The photoluminescence and CD spectra of unconjugated QDs after separated magnetochirofluorescent (MNPs-QDs) nanohybrids by external magnets enables influenza virus A (H5N1) detection with the limit of detection value of 7.35 and 80.92 pg mL −1 , respectively. A dual-mode biosensing detection system based on fluorescence and chirality of MoS 2 quantum dots for avian influenza viruses is described.

Description: Transparent, durable coating materials that show excellent liquid repellency, both water and oil, have multiple applications in science and technology. In this perspective, herein, a simple aqueous chemical formulation is developed that provides a transparent slippery coating without any lubricating fluids, on various substrates extended over large areas. The coatings repel liquids having a range of polarity (solvents) as well as viscosity (oils and emulsions) and withstand mechanical strains. Exceptional optical transparency of 99% in the range of 350–900 nm along with high stability even after cyclic temperature, frost, exposure to sunlight, and corrosive liquids like aqua regia treatments, makes this material unique and widens its applicability in different fields. Besides, being a liquid, it can be coated on an array of substrates independent of their underlying topography, by various easily available techniques. Aside from these interesting properties, the coating is demonstrated as a potential solution contributing to the remediation of one of the biggest global issues of tomorrow: affordable drinking water. The coated surface can capture 5 L of water per day per m 2 at 27 °C when exposed to an atmosphere of 63% relative humidity. An inexpensive aqueous coating material , providing robust, transparent, and liquid repellent properties without any lubricating fluid once cured, is demonstrated. It is stable over extreme mechano-thermochemical perturbations and can be coated on a variety of substrates. Being a liquid, it enables the creation of large surfaces, which makes this material unique for different applications, including atmospheric water harvesting.

Description: The great antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of enzymes makes them prone to be used as active packaging materials to preserve food from contamination or degradation. Major drawbacks are connected to the use of enzymes freely dispersed in solution, due to reduced protein stability. The immobilization of enzymes on solid supports to create biocatalytic interfaces has instead been proven to increase their stability and efficiency. In this work, it is shown that enzymes crystallized on hydrogel composite membranes (HCMs) can exert an effective antimicrobial action, thus making the composite membrane and crystals biofilm a potential active substrate for food packaging applications. The antimicrobial hen egg white lysozyme is crystallized on the surface of the hydrogel layer of HCMs, and its activity is determined by measuring the decrease in absorbance of Micrococcus lysodeikticus culture incubated with the specimen. The overall catalytic efficiency of the antimicrobial HCMs increases by a factor of 2 compared to the pure enzyme dissolved in solution at the same quantity. Because the enzyme in crystalline form is present in higher concentration and purity than in the solution, both its overall catalytic efficiency and antimicrobial action increase. Moreover, the hydrogel environment allows a better protein stabilization and retention during crystals dissolution. Composite membranes supporting a homogeneous hydrogel layer are used as building blocks to develop new biofilms based on lysozyme crystals. Its antimicrobial activity is much bigger than that shown by free lysozyme in solution, or even by films containing lysozyme immobilized in the molecular form. Lysozyme crystals and hydrogel composite membranes represent a promising surface material for food packaging applications.

Description: Evidence-informed health care decisions and recommendations need to be made systematically and transparently. Mediating technology can help manage boundaries between groups making decisions and target audiences, enhancing salience, credibility, and legitimacy for all. This article describes the development of the Evidence to Decision (EtD) framework and an interactive tool to create and use frameworks (iEtD) to support communication in decision making. Methods : Using a human-centered design approach, we created prototypes employing a broad range of methods to iteratively develop EtD framework content and iEtD tool functionality. Results : We developed tailored EtD frameworks for making evidence-informed decisions and recommendations about clinical practice interventions, diagnostic and screening tests, coverage, and health system and public health options. The iEtD tool provides functionality for preparing frameworks, using them in group discussions, and publishing output for implementation or adaption. EtD and iEtD are intuitive and useful for producers and users of frameworks, and flexible for use across different types of topics, decisions, and organizations. They bring valued structure to panel discussions and transparency to published output. Conclusion : EtD and iEtD can resolve some of the challenges inherent in multicriteria, multistakeholder decision systems. They are freely available online for all to use at https://ietd.epistemonikos.org/ and https://gradepro.org . The purpose of Evidence to Decision frameworks is to help groups make systematic, transparent, and adaptable health care recommendations or decisions. This article describes the development of the frameworks and digital tool, revealing key stakeholder perspectives that are relevant for anyone seeking to use the framework, the tool, or develop similar approaches for decisions in other domains.

Description: Lithium extraction from high Mg/Li ratio brine is a key technical problem in the world. Based on the principle of rocking-chair lithium-ion batteries, cathode material LiFePO 4 is applied to extract lithium from brine, and a novel lithium-ion battery system of LiFePO 4 | NaCl solution | anion-exchange membrane | brine | FePO 4 is constructed. In this method, Li + is selectively absorbed from the brine by FePO 4 (Li + + e + FePO 4 = LiFePO 4 ); meanwhile, Li + is desorbed from LiFePO 4 (LiFePO 4 − e = Li + + FePO 4 ) and enriched efficiently. To treat a raw brine solution, the Mg/Li ratio decreases from the initial 134.4 in the brine to 1.2 in the obtained anolyte and 83% lithium is extracted. For the treatment of an old brine solution, the Mg/Li ratio decreases from the initial 48.4 in the brine to 0.5 and the concentration of lithium in the anolyte is accumulated about six times (from the initial 0.51 g L −1 in the brine to 3.2 g L −1 in the anolyte), with the absorption capacity of about 25 mg (Li) g (LiFePO 4 ) −1 . Additionally, it displays a great perspective on the application in light of its high selectively, good cycling performance, effective lithium enrichment, environmental friendliness, low cost, and avoidance of poisonous organic reagents and harmful acid or oxidant. Lithium extraction from high Mg/Li ratio brine is a global technical problem. In this study, cathode material LiFePO 4 is applied to extract lithium from the brine via a novel electrochemical system of LiFePO 4 | NaCl solution | anion-exchange membrane | brine |FePO 4 . It displays a great perspective on the application in light of its high selectively, good cycling performance, effective lithium enrichment, and low cost.

Description: Carbon-based sunlight absorbers in solar-driven steam generation have recently attracted much attention due to the possibility of huge applications of low-cost steam for medical sterilization or sanitization, seawater desalination, chemical distillation, and water purification. In this minireview, recent developments in carbon-based sunlight absorbers in solar-driven steam generation systems are reviewed, including graphene, graphite, carbon nanotubes, other carbon materials, and carbon-based composite materials, highlighting important contributions worldwide that promise low-cost, efficient, robust, reusable, chemically stable, and excellent broadband solar absorption. Furthermore, the crucial challenges associated with employing carbon materials in this field are emphasized. Recent developments in carbon-based sunlight absorbers in solar-driven steam generation systems are reviewed, including graphene, graphite, carbon nanotubes, other carbon materials, and carbon-based composites materials. In particular, important contributions worldwide that promise low-cost, efficient, robust, reusable, chemically stable, and excellent broadband solar absorption are highlighted. Furthermore, the crucial challenges associated with employing carbon materials in this field are emphasized.

Description: In the present study, fluoride removal from drinking water is investigated using layer-by-layer (LbL) fabricated poly(sodium 4-styrene-sulfonate) (PSS)/Al 2 O 3 thin films. The surface morphology of the fabricated thin films is characterized using atomic force microscopy and field emission-scanning electron microscopy. Optical profilometry is used to determine the self-assembly of the multilayer thin films. The effect of various parameters such as adsorbent dosage, contact time, initial fluoride content, number of bilayers, surface area, and pH is thoroughly studied. Fluoride removal increases with the number of bilayers and number of slides (total surface area). The amount of fluoride adsorbed increases from 11.32 to 26 mg L −1 when the number of substrates increases from 1 to 5. A 68% removal of fluoride is observed when 20 bilayers of PSS/Al 2 O 3 thin films with three slides at an initial fluoride concentration of 5 mg L −1 are used, thereby bringing down the fluoride concentration level below the World Health Organization permissible limit. Slide reusability studies reveal that the fabricated thin films can be used for ten cycles without affecting the fluoride removal properties of the film. This study demonstrates the potential application of immobilized PSS/Al 2 O 3 thin films as an effective adsorbent for drinking water purification. Multilayer PSS/Al 2 O 3 thin films fabricated using a layer-by-layer (LbL) approach exhibit increased defluoridation capacity. Immobilized thin films can be reused for a number of cycles, making it cost effective. Multilayer LbL Al 2 O 3 thin films offer advantages unlike Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles used as a suspension.

Description: Conventional pacemaker batteries have limited lifetime and require a major surgery for replacement. To overcome this impediment, a design for piezoelectric energy harvester scavenging energy from blood pressure variation in the patient's body is proposed. This piezoelectric energy harvester converts the force arising from blood pressure variation into electric voltage. The image shows the self-powered pacemaker; the background portrays the campus of the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, India, where the research was carried out. Further details can be found in article number 1700084 by Rahul Vaish and co-workers.

Description: A direct ammonia-type intermediate temperature fuel cell is examined by means of a hydrogen membrane fuel cell (HMFC) comprising 1-µm-thick BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3− δ (BZCY) thin-film electrolyte and Pd solid anode. It generates the maximum power density of 0.58 W cm −2 at 600 °C with ammonia fuels, and this value is found to be three times larger than the champion data of the recently reported direct ammonia-type proton-conducting ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs). AC impedance spectroscopy is performed to determine the interfacial polarization resistances, disclosing that the anodic overpotentials of HMFCs are at least one order of magnitude smaller than those of anode-supported PCFC under relatively high DC outputs. The anode reactions are driven by the oxidation of monoatomic hydrogen dissolving at the BZCY/Pd solid–solid interface, mediated via proton transfer from Pd to BZCY. The electrochemical analysis reveals that the BZCY/Pd junction forms Ohmic contact without growth of wide depletion layer and thus facilitates the proton transfer reactions because the interfacial region beneath Pd electrode can accommodate amounts of protonic defects as well as the bulk of BZCY due to the small depletion of holes under hole–proton thermodynamic equilibrium. Hydrogen membrane fuel cells enable efficient power generation with ammonia fuels since Ohmic BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3− δ /Pd oxide-metal junctions allow the accomodation of large amounts of protons in the interfacial region and thus promote the incorporation of proton from Pd into BZCY according to the hole–proton thermodynamic equilibrium, thereby accelerating the anodic charge transfer reaction.

Description: The stability of polymers with C C and stable C heteroatom backbones against chemicals, hydrolysis, temperature, light, and microbes has challenged society with the problem of accumulation of plastic waste and its management worldwide. Given careless disposal of plastic waste, large amounts of plastic litter accumulate in the environment and disintegrate into microplastics. One of the questions frequently raised in the recent times is if so-called biodegradable polymers can substitute conventional polymers for several applications and help to tackle this challenge. The answer is not so simple as biodegradability is a certified property occurring only under certain environmental conditions and therefore requires systematic study. As a first step, this study focusses on comparative degradation studies of six polymers (five taken from the so-called biodegradable polyesters, including poly(lactic- co -glycolic acid) (PLGA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polylactic acid (PLA), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), Ecoflex, and one well-known non-degradable polymer poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) in artificial seawater and freshwater under controlled conditions for 1 year. Only amorphous PLGA shows 100% degradation as determined by weight loss, change in molar mass with time, NMR, electron microscopy, and high-performance liquid chromatography. This is a step forward in understanding the degradability of polyesters required for the design of environmentally friendly novel polymers for future use. A comparative study regarding degradability of so-called biodegradable polymers in the seawater and freshwater under controlled conditions shows only poly(lactic- co -glycolic acid) as a degradable polymer. It degrades 100% in ≈270 d, whereas polycaprolactone, polylactic acid, and Ecoflex do not indicate any change. Bacterial polyester poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) shows ≈8% degradation by surface erosion in 1 year.

Description: Atmospheric water is emerging as an important potable water source. The present work experimentally and theoretically investigates water condensation and collection on flat surfaces with contrasting contact angles and contact angle hysteresis (CAH) to elucidate their roles on water mass collection efficiency. The experimental results indicate that a hydrophilic surface promotes nucleation and individual droplets growth, and a surface with a low CAH tends to let a smaller droplet to slide down, but the overall water mass collection efficiency is independent of both surface contact angle and CAH. The experimental results agree well with our theoretical calculations. During water condensation, a balance has to be struck between single droplet growth and droplet density on a surface so as to maintain a constant water droplet surface coverage ratio, which renders the role of both surface wettability and hysteresis insignificant to the ultimate water mass collection. Moreover, water droplets on the edges of a surface grow much faster than those on the non-edge areas and thus dominate the contribution to the water mass collection by the entire surface, directly pointing out the very important role of edge effect on water condensation and collection. Atmospheric water is an important water source and thus understanding atmospheric water condensation behaviors is critical to further develop effective atmospheric water harvesting materials. This work indicates that the edge effect overplays the surface wettability in condensation water harvesting. The results of this work unequivocally point out the importance of increasing fraction of edge promoting locally favorable aerodynamics.

Description: Separators are the most critical safety component in rechargeable batteries. HKUST's new safer separator offers the safety solution by displaying tensile strengths higher than stainless steel upon thermal fuse activation. Besides, batteries using these new separators show no charge/discharge hysteresis and display at least 10% higher energy density than those using commercial separators. More details can be found in article number 1700020 by Runlai Li and Ping Gao*.

Description: Electronic tongue is widely applied in liquid sensing for applications in various fields, such as environmental monitoring, healthcare, and food quality test. A rapid and simple liquid-sensing method can greatly facilitate the routine quality tests of liquids. Nanomaterials can help miniaturize sensing devices. In this work, a broad-spectrum liquid-sensing system is developed for rapid liquid recognition based on disposable graphene–polymer nanocomposite test paper prepared through ion-assisted filtration. Using this liquid-sensing system, a number of complex liquids are successfully recognized, including metal salt solutions and polymer solutions. The electronic tongue system is especially suitable for checking the quality of the foodstuff, including soft drinks, alcoholic liquor, and milk. The toxicants in these liquids can be readily detected. Furthermore, the novel material-structure design and liquid-detection method can be expanded to other chemical sensors, which can greatly enrich the chemical information collected from the electrical response of single chemiresistor platform. A portable graphene liquid-sensing system is developed to qualitatively analyze simple and complex solutions with partial specificity. It provides a simple, fast and non-expensive reliable detection of micro-quantity liquid. The disposable graphene test paper may have promising applications in building versatile, flexible, and portable liquid-sensing devices for inactive healthcare, mobile beverage quality test, and environmental monitoring.

Description: This review seeks to provide a better understanding of energy used in the urban water system in China. Electricity is a major contributor to the environmental impact of water supply and wastewater treatment, particularly in countries like China where electricity is largely generated using coal and has a significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions. Electricity use can also constitute one of the main costs for water and wastewater companies. China is an important country for the study of energy for water, particularly in urban areas where population is rapidly increasing. China's daily wastewater treatment capacity has increased dramatically over the last decade and a half, and energy use for both wastewater treatment and potable water supply has grown significantly. This paper deals with the challenge of energy for water in China. It reviews the growing body of work on energy for conventional water supply and wastewater treatment in urban China. The review covers energy for all parts of conventional water supply and wastewater treatment, including energy for sourcing, treating and distributing groundwater and surface water, and energy for primary and secondary treatment and sludge treatment and disposal. This review seeks to provide a better understanding of energy used in the urban water system in China. The review covers energy for sourcing, treating and distributing conventional water sources, and energy for treatment of wastewater and sludge. It draws conclusions on which areas should be the focus of efforts to reduce or recover energy.

Description: Water resources and water quality are closely related to oil exploration, refining and distribution. Since oil products provide over 90% of transport energy in almost all countries it is apparent that any oil operation is an inherent risk for water resources. Since water supplies will be increasingly stressed as a consequence of climate change and population increase the environmental risks associated with oil exploration may intensify. Thus, there are more reasons than CO 2 emissions and climate change to cut down on oil production and consumption. In this paper water related risks are discussed from two aspects: (1) water use and water pollution as a result of normal exploration, refining and distribution, (2) water and marine life contamination caused by accidents. It will be exemplified by some major oil accidents, too often caused by human errors or negligence. Ecological effects of oil contamination for seawaters and freshwaters are discussed. Some aspects of social and economic consequences are examined. Some possibilities for mitigating oil leakage risks are highlighted. Oil exploration, refining and distribution have significant water footprints. Leakages and accidents in exploration or transport can have catastrophic impact on water resources, ecology as well as on human health and livelihood. Increasing water scarcity due to population growth, agriculture, industrial activities, and climate change may exacerbate the impact. Consequences of oil operations or disasters on water are illustrated by a number of examples.

Description: Renewable energy technologies can make a major contribution to universal access to both energy and water in a sustainable way. In many regions of the world with energy poverty there are abundant renewable energy sources. In this review it is described how solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy have a huge potential to supply clean water, in particular in areas with no grid connection. Off-grid technologies can form a significant part of the solution, all the way from household level to village or community level. Small scale off-grid systems can provide not only lighting but also energy for pumping to gain access to water and to purify and re-use water. In rapidly growing peri-urban areas electric power grids may be available but need to be complemented with decentralized energy sources. Solar and wind can be part of a new kind of hybrid energy supplies. It is noted that there is a confluence of factors, such as greater urbanization, population increase, economic development that will determine the energy mix. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of clean water and energy for all are strongly related and will depend to a large extent on solar PV and wind. Solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy are key tools to reach universal access to both energy and water, in particular in areas with no grid connection. The technology is widely scalable and can provide lighting, energy for pumping, water treatment and re-use. Access to solar PV and wind is a key prerequisite to reach several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Description: Fabrication of the helical fibers with sheath/core structure comprising 3D interconnected porous polystyrene (PS) and ductile polyvinylidene fluoride is inspired by coiled plant tendril. The key innovation point applied in this study is to produce a helical porous system based on sheath/core structure that can come into being a huge storage space in the sorption process for crude oil. More importantly, the mechanical properties confirm to have a more excellent improvement than that of the initial PS fibers, which make it become a possible candidate for the large-area sorption and reuse of crude oil from the ocean or industry. The bioinspired fabricating strategy opens a significant avenue between the coaxial electrospinning and crude oil contamination cleanup. It is also expected that the unique structure can make it a promising candidate for applications in energy conversion, tissue engineering, and intelligent devices. Fabrication of the helical fibers with sheath/core structure comprising 3D interconnected porous polystyrene (PS) and ductile polyvinylidene fluoride is inspired by coiled plant tendril. The key innovation point applied in this study is to produce a helical porous system based on sheath/core structure that can come into being a huge storage space in the sorption process for crude oil.

Description: Despite economic growth and increased global commitment to health financing in the past decades, the health needs of some of the world's most vulnerable people remain overlooked. In particular, middle-income countries (MICs) often face the conundrum of receiving reduced development assistance for health (DAH) while still being home to most of the world's poor and the majority of the global burden. We believe that this reflects shortcomings in the global DAH system's architecture, which operate on principles that do not respond well to current realities. Hence, we propose a novel mechanism for international health financing and action that specifically addresses the newly emerged strengths and needs of MICs. The Incentives for Health (I4H) Alliance will offer MICs flexible incentives in exchange for their making and meeting health-related commitments in their countries. Countries can set their own health targets, in alignment with the existing Sustainable Development Goals' framework, and those that achieve them will be subsequently rewarded with financial or other incentives, which are not restricted to the health sector. We believe that the I4H Alliance will promote greater MIC involvement towards global health financing both as incentive providers and recipients; encourage collaboration between Ministries of Health and Finance; and provide a needed complement to traditional DAH mechanisms. We advocate for the creation of I4H at a MICs-oriented financing institution such as the New Development Bank. We intend I4H to spark new thinking around innovative health financing approaches to ensure that the “golden age” of global health remains ahead. This article discusses a novel mechanism for international health financing and action that specifically addresses the newly emerged strengths and needs of middle-income countries, which often receive reduced development assistance for health (DAH) while still being home to the majority of the global health burden. This mechanism can spark new thinking around innovative financing approaches for global health and beyond.

Description: A programmable release system with wide range of release profiles of the antimalarial artemisone (ART) from fibrous nanocarriers (NFN) is presented. This is achieved following a new paradigm of using ART-loaded NFN in infusion system of hydrophobic drug eluting nanocarriers, adapted to clinical applications. Very importantly, under these conditions ART did not degrade as it was observed in solution.

Description: The international sharing of virus data is critical for protecting populations against lethal infectious disease outbreaks. Scientists must rapidly share information to assess the nature of the threat and develop new medical countermeasures. Governments need the data to trace the extent of the outbreak, initiate public health responses, and coordinate access to medicines and vaccines. Recent outbreaks suggest, however, that the sharing of such data cannot be taken for granted – making the timely international exchange of virus data a vital global challenge. This article undertakes the first analysis of the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data as an innovative policy effort to promote the international sharing of genetic and associated influenza virus data. Based on more than 20 semi-structured interviews conducted with key informants in the international community, coupled with analysis of a wide range of primary and secondary sources, the article finds that the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data contributes to global health in at least five ways: (1) collating the most complete repository of high-quality influenza data in the world; (2) facilitating the rapid sharing of potentially pandemic virus information during recent outbreaks; (3) supporting the World Health Organization's biannual seasonal flu vaccine strain selection process; (4) developing informal mechanisms for conflict resolution around the sharing of virus data; and (5) building greater trust with several countries key to global pandemic preparedness.

Description: This paper explores the extent to which global health governance – in the context of the early implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals is grounded in the right to health. The essential components of the right to health in relation to global health are unpacked. Four essential functions of the global health system are assessed from a normative, rights-based, analysis on how each of these governance functions should operate. These essential functions are: the production of global public goods, the management of externalities across countries, the mobilization of global solidarity, and stewardship. The paper maps the current reality of global health governance now that the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals are beginning to be implemented. In theory, the existing human rights legislation would enable the principles and basis for the global governance of health beyond the premise of the state. In practice, there is a governance gap between the human rights framework and practices in global health and development policies. This gap can be explained by the political determinants of health that shape the governance of these global policies. Current representations of the right to health in the Sustainable Development Goals are insufficient and superficial, because they do not explicitly link commitments or right to health discourse to binding treaty obligations for duty-bearing nation states or entitlements by people. If global health policy is to meaningfully contribute to the realization of the right to health and to rights based global health governance then future iterations of global health policy must bridge this gap. This includes scholarship and policy debate on the structure, politics, and agency to overcome existing global health injustices.