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Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly prevalent and deadly cancer, with limited treatment options for advanced-stage patients. Disulfidptosis is a recently identified mechanism of programmed cell death that occurs in SLC7A11 high-expressing cells due to glucose starvation-induced disintegration of the cellular disulfide skeleton. We aimed to explore the potential of disulfidptosis, as a prognostic and therapeutic marker in HCC. Methods: We classified HCC patients into two disulfidptosis subtypes (C1 and C2) based on the transcriptional profiles of 31 disulfrgs using a non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm. Further, five genes (NEIL3, MMP1, STC2, ADH4 and CFHR3) were screened by Cox regression analysis and machine learning algorithm to construct a disulfidptosis scoring system (disulfS). Cell proliferation assay, F-actin staining and PBMC co-culture model were used to validate that disulfidptosis occurs in HCC and correlates with immunotherapy response. Results: Our results suggests that the low disulfidptosis subtype (C2) demonstrated better overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) prognosis, along with lower levels of immunosuppressive cell infiltration and activation of the glycine/serine/threonine metabolic pathway. Additionally, the low disulfidptosis group showed better responses to immunotherapy and potential antagonism with sorafenib treatment. As a total survival risk factor, disulfS demonstrated high predictive efficacy in multiple validation cohorts. We demonstrated the presence of disulfidptosis in HCC cells and its possible relevance to immunotherapeutic sensitization. Conclusion: The present study indicates that novel biomarkers related to disulfidptosis may serve as useful clinical diagnostic indicators for liver cancer, enabling the prediction of prognosis and identification of potential treatment targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC) is a gynecological malignant tumor with high incidence and poor prognosis. Although immunotherapy has brought significant survival benefits to advanced UCEC patients, traditional evaluation indicators cannot accurately identify all potential beneficiaries of immunotherapy. Consequently, it is necessary to construct a new scoring system to predict patient prognosis and responsiveness of immunotherapy. Methods: CIBERSORT combined with weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), non-negative matrix factorization (NMF), and random forest algorithms to screen the module associated with CD8+ T cells, and key genes related to prognosis were selected out by univariate, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and multivariate Cox regression analyses to develop the novel immune risk score (NIRS). Kaplan–Meier (K-M) analysis was used to compare the difference of survival between high- and low- NIRS groups. We also explored the correlations between NIRS, immune infiltration and immunotherapy, and three external validation sets were used to verify the predictive performance of NIRS. Furthermore, clinical subgroup analysis, mutation analysis, differential expression of immune checkpoints, and drug sensitivity analysis were performed to generate individualized treatments for patients with different risk scores. Finally, gene set variation analysis (GSVA) was conducted to explore the biological functions of NIRS, and qRT-PCR was applied to verify the differential expressions of three trait genes at cellular and tissue levels. Results: Among the modules clustered by WGCNA, the magenta module was most positively associated with CD8+ T cells. Three genes (CTSW, CD3D and CD48) were selected to construct NIRS after multiple screening procedures. NIRS was confirmed as an independent prognostic factor of UCEC, and patients with high NIRS had significantly worse prognosis compared to those with low NIRS. The high NIRS group showed lower levels of infiltrated immune cells, gene mutations, and expression of multiple immune checkpoints, indicating reduced sensitivity to immunotherapy. Three module genes were identified as protective factors positively correlated with the level of CD8+ T cells. Conclusions: In this study, we constructed NIRS as a novel predictive signature of UCEC. NIRS not only differentiates patients with distinct prognoses and immune responsiveness, but also guides their therapeutic regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel quaternary oxysulfide, FeOCuS has been successfully synthesized with a tetragonal anti-PbO-type structure and a visible-light bandgap of about 1.37 eV. Driven by only a 0.4 V bias voltage under simulated AM 1.5 G illumination, a high photocurrent density of 3.89 mA cm−2 has been achieved, revealing the potential optoelectronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the aim of improving the photocatalytic activity for water splitting, novel core–shell-structured crystalline-BaTiO3/amorphous-BaTiO3−x/crystalline-CdS composite nanocubes are prepared by a facile two-step synthesis approach. Basic characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy are carried out on the as-prepared composite nanocubes in order to confirm the quality of their crystal structure, morphology and chemical components correspondingly. UV-Vis-NIR measurements of the as-prepared composite nanocubes validate the presence of extended visible-light absorbance due to oxygen-deficient BaTiO3−x. Photoelectrochemical tests are carried out on the as-prepared nanocomposite films that are coated directly on indium tin oxide (ITO) glass substrates. The as-prepared composite nanocubes show a photocurrent density of 100 μA cm−2 without electric field poling, whereas they show about 200 μA cm−2 with an electric field poling of 18.8 kV cm−1. This study suggests that the photoelectrochemical performance is highest in our prepared BaTiO3/BaTiO3−x/CdS composite film compared to the pure BaTiO3, CdS and BaTiO3/BaTiO3−x films, and it may offer a new potential route for designing cost-effective, highly stable and efficient photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Well-polarized BiFeO 3 nanoparticles have been successfully prepared by a facile electrical poling method with the assist of a soluble organic-inorganic composite film. From XRD, TEM and SEM studies, no significant change in the crystal structure or morphology was detected after the electrical poling process. The visible-light driven photocatalytic process of poled BiFeO 3 nanoparticles was accelerated by 2 times compared to unpoled BiFeO 3. By combining time-resolved photoluminescence (PL), photoinduced silver deposition testing and photoelectrochemical measurements, it can be revealed that the enhanced photocatalytic performance of poled samples can be properly attributed to the promoted separation and prolonged lifetime of the photogenerated carriers caused by the ferroelectric polarization. These findings may offer a new route to promote the photocatalytic or photoelectric performances of BiFeO 3 for advanced applications by adjusting the ferroelectric polarization. Highlights • A facile electrical poling method was proposed for preparing well-polarized BiFeO 3 nanoparticles. • Visible-light driven photocatalytic activity of poled BiFeO 3 powder has been improved by 2 times. • No notable change can be detected in the crystal structure and morphology after poling process. • Silver is preferentially reduced on the negatively charged surface due to polarization-induced the electrons aggregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered transition-metal chalcogenides have attracted great interest due to their unique electronic and optical properties. Here, we represent two layered quaternary chalcogenides K2CoCu3S4 and K2CoCu3Se4 prepared by a convenient hydrothermal route. From powder XRD and TEM analyses, K2CoCu3Q4 possesses a tetragonal ThCr2Si2-type structure with a random arrangement of Co and Cu atoms. The phase purity of the samples was confirmed by ICP, SEM, and EDS analyses, and the oxidation states of Co and Cu atoms were determined to be +3 and +1 by XPS spectra. Both samples show a weak ferromagnetic behavior at low temperature induced by spin-canted antiferromagnetic ordering. The temperature dependent resistivity, ρ(T), reveals a metallic nature for stoichiometric K2CoCu3S4. The semiconducting behavior of K2CoCu3Se4 could be explained better by variable range hopping (VRH) rather than adiabatic small polaron hopping (SPH). This new series of layered chalcogenides may offer a promising candidate for potential electronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhanced solar light absorption and photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical properties have been achieved in black BaTiO3 with a unique core/shell structure (crystalline BaTiO3@amorphous BaTiO3−x) using an Al-reduction method. This finding may open a new avenue to tune the inert ferroelectric materials toward excellent photocatalysts for advanced applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite-type Ba 1− x Sr x Ti 0.9 Sn 0.1 O 3 ( x = 0, 0.06, 0.07, and 0.08) oxides were prepared by conventional solid-state synthesis, and their electrocaloric effect was investigated, revealing that doping by Sr reduces the Curie temperature to ambient values. The largest electrocaloric strength of 0.31 K mm kV −1 was obtained for x = 0.06 at 47 °C, significantly exceeding values displayed by other lead-free ceramics and implying that novel Sr-doped Ba 1− x Sr x Ti 0.9 Sn 0.1 O 3 ceramics are promising materials for ecofriendly refrigeration applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal diseases due to its high faculty of invasiveness and metastasis. Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) has been regarded as an oncogene in bladder cancer and ovarian cancer. However, the role of ADNP in the regulation of tumor immune response, development, and treatment resistance in HCC remains unknown and is worth exploring. Methods: The correlation between ADNP and prognosis, immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoints, chemokines, tumor mutation burden, microsatellite instability, and genomic mutation of pan-cancer cohorts in The Cancer Genome Atlas was analyzed. ADNP expression in HCC cell lines, HCC and the adjacent normal tissues was measured by western blotting and immunochemistry. Nomogram was constructed to predict the survival of patients with HCC based on the ADNP expression and significant clinical characteristics. The potential biological functions and impacts on radiotherapy of ADNP in HCC cell lines were verified by vitro experiments. Results: ADNP was upregulated in most cancers and patients with elevated ADNP expression were related to poor survival in several types of cancers including HCC. Functional enrichment analysis showed ADNP participated in the pathways correlated with coagulation cascades and DNA double strand break repair. Further, ADNP exhibited a negative correlation with the immune score, stromal score, estimated score, and chemokines, and a positive correlation with cancer-associated fibroblasts, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, neutrophils, regulatory T cells, and endothelial cells. Immunochemistry and western blotting results demonstrated ADNP was up-regulated in HCC. Vitro experiments verified that suppressing the ADNP expression significantly inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration and elevated the radiosensitivity via decreasing DNA damage repair in HCC. Conclusion: ADNP might play an oncogene and immunosuppression role in tumor immune infiltration and response, thus influencing the prognosis. Its downregulation could attenuate the proliferation, invasion, migration, radioresistance of HCC. Our results indicated the potential of ADNP as a promising biomarker to predict the survival of HCC patients, providing a theoretical basis for novel integrative strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycrystalline Sn 0.8 In 0.2 Te 1– x Se x ( x =0–0.3) were prepared by conventional solid-sate reaction method, and the superconductivity was investigated in details. All the samples were crystallized in a cubic Fm 3 − m structure, which was confirmed by the XRD results. The superconducting transition temperature ( T c ) increases with increasing the Se doping level, achieving a maximal T c of 3.9 K at x =0.15 compared with 3.1 K for Sn 0.8 In 0.2 Te. The critical fields were also improved by introducing smaller Se 2− into the Te site. Our results suggest that the proper lattice shrinkage enhances superconductivity in the Sn 0.8 In 0.2 Te system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A novel quaternary chalcogenide KBiCu2S3 has been synthesized via a facile hydrothermal approach. [•] The critical influencing factors for the crystal growth were discussed in detail. [•] The magnetic and electrical properties of KBiCu2S3 were also studied. [•] The band gap of the compound is 1.29 eV. [•] Its photoelectric response was also characterized, which demonstrated the potential for applications in photovoltaic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Superconductors Ba1−x K x BiO3 and body-centered double perovskites Ba1−x K x Bi1−y Na y O3 have been selectively synthesized by a facile hydrothermal route. The appropriate ratio and adding sequence of initial reagents, alkalinity, reaction temperature and time are the critical factors that influence the crystal growth of the compounds. The purity and homogeneity of the crystals were detected by the ICP, SEM, EDX and TEM studies. Magnetic measurements show that the superconducting transition temperatures T C of Ba1−x K x BiO3 decrease from 22K (for x =0.35) to 8K (for x =0.55) with increasing the K doping level. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Double-perovskite oxides R2MnNiO6 (R=Pr, Sm, and Ho) were synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions. Crystal growths of the samples were sensitive to the alkalinity, the reaction temperature and the time. The X-ray diffraction data show that all the compounds crystallize in the monoclinic structure of space group P21/n. The purity and composition of the crystals are detected by ICP, SEM and EDX analysis. The magnetic studies for all the compounds indicated the dominance of ferromagnetic contribution and revealed a trivalent valence of both Mn and Ni with partial disorder. The T C temperature of the R2NiMnO6 series is depended on the radius of R3+ atoms, which is consistent with the previous reported. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The perovskite-type oxides La0.5Sr0.5Mn1−x Fe x O3 (x =0.2–0.5) were synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions. Crystal growths of the samples were sensitive to the Mn-containing precursor, alkalinity and the reaction temperature. All the compounds corresponded to orthorhombic structure of space group Pnma. The curves M vs. T for the compositions with x =0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 indicated the coexistence of ferro- and anti-ferromagnetic contribution. The temperature dependence ρ(T) is semiconducting for all the compounds and explained well by the variable range hopping rather than the adiabatic small polaron hopping. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Two quaternary chalcogenides of ThCr 2 Si 2 -type K 2 FeCu 3 Q 4 (Q for S and Se) were utilized as new type of Pt-free counter electrodes (CEs) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Mott−Schottky analysis, cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were performed to clarify the differences in energy band alignments, electrocatalytic and photovoltaic performances. A photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.07% was achieved in DSSCs assembled with K 2 FeCu 3 Se 4 CE, which was obviously superior to that of K 2 FeCu 3 S 4 CE (3.42%) and comparable with that of Pt CE (6.25%) under one sun AM 1.5 G illumination (100 mW cm−2). Compared to K 2 FeCu 3 S 4 CE, the higher PCE of K 2 FeCu 3 Se 4 CE can be attributed to the better catalytic activity for I 3 − reduction, stronger driving force for electron injection from CE to electrolyte, faster electron transfer and electrolyte diffusion channels. Image 1 • ThCr 2 Si 2 -type quaternary chalcogenides were utilized as a new type of Pt-free counter electrodes for the dye-sensitized solar cells. • The K 2 FeCu 3 Q 4 nanoparticles were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal route. • The K 2 FeCu 3 Q 4 CEs were fabricated by spraying the nanoparticles directly on ITO glass, followed by vacuum sintering. • DSSCs assembled with K 2 FeCu 3 Se 4 CE achieved a PCE of 5.07% comparable with that of Pt CE (6.25%) under simulated AM 1.5G illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Blackened ferroelectric semiconductor extends visible light absorption. • In-situ introduction of oxygen-deficient by Al-reduction. • BaTiO 3 /BaTiO 3− x / g -C 3 N 4 heterojunctions improve the catalytic effect of the photocatalysts. In-situ introduction of oxygen-deficiency in traditional semiconductor nano-oxides has been proved to be one of the most effective strategies for enhancing light-harvesting and energy conversion efficiency. This work intends to correlate oxygen vacancy of ferroelectric oxygen carriers with redox properties. The crystalline-BaTiO 3 / amorphous-BaTiO 3− x / crystalline- g -C 3 N 4 composite nanoparticles have been synthesized by combining the hydrothermal synthesis and aluminothermic reduction method. The aluminothermic reduction established a shell of amorphous layer contributed by the oxygen vacancy generation, which extended range of sunlight absorption. Meanwhile abundant oxygen vacancies simulate the generation of reactive oxidizing species, resulting in intensive photodegradation ability. The effective degradation process is the result of synergistic interaction among heterojunction, reactive radical species and abundant oxygen vacancies, the degradation efficiency of methylene blue (MB) solution reach to 99.47% within 30 min, which demonstrates the promising prospects of BaTiO 3 /BaTiO 3 − x / g -C 3 N 4 as costing effective, highly stable and efficient photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomically thin two-dimensional (2D) bismuth oxychalcogenides have been considered as promising candidates for high-speed and low-power photoelectronic devices due to their high charge carrier mobility and excellent environmental stability. However, the photoelectric performance of their bulk materials still falls short of expectations. Herein, a novel Bi9O7.5S6/SnS composite film with a type-II heterojunction was successfully prepared by combining hydrothermal and knife-coating techniques. The crystal structure, morphology, and optical properties were systematically investigated. Under 1 V bias voltage, the photocurrent of the Bi9O7.5S6/SnS composite film can be obtained as 107 μA cm−2, which is about 29.9 times and 93.9 times higher than that of bare Bi9O7.5S6 and SnS, respectively. The type-II heterojunction has played a significant role in improving the photoelectric performance of the Bi9O7.5S6/SnS composite film by facilitating the separation and transfer of photo-generated carriers. This work sheds light on the design and development of new bismuth-based composite materials for advanced photoelectric and photocatalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC) is a major impediment to its clinical application. It is indispensable to explore alternative treatment molecules or drugs for mitigating DIC. WGX50, an organic extract derived from Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant biological activity, however, its function and mechanism in DIC remain unclear. Methods: We established DOX-induced cardiotoxicity models both in vitro and in vivo. Echocardiography and histological analyses were used to determine the severity of cardiac injury in mice. The myocardial damage markers cTnT, CK-MB, ANP, BNP, and ferroptosis associated indicators Fe2+, MDA, and GPX4 were measured using ELISA, RT-qPCR, and western blot assays. The morphology of mitochondria was investigated with a transmission electron microscope. The levels of mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial ROS, and lipid ROS were detected using JC-1, MitoSOX™, and C11-BODIPY 581/591 probes. Results: Our findings demonstrate that WGX50 protects DOX-induced cardiotoxicity via restraining mitochondrial ROS and ferroptosis. In vivo, WGX50 effectively relieves doxorubicin-induced cardiac dysfunction, cardiac injury, fibrosis, mitochondrial damage, and redox imbalance. In vitro, WGX50 preserves mitochondrial function by reducing the level of mitochondrial membrane potential and increasing mitochondrial ATP production. Furthermore, WGX50 reduces iron accumulation and mitochondrial ROS, increases GPX4 expression, and regulates lipid metabolism to inhibit DOX-induced ferroptosis. Conclusion: Taken together, WGX50 protects DOX-induced cardiotoxicity via mitochondrial ROS and the ferroptosis pathway, which provides novel insights for WGX50 as a promising drug candidate for cardioprotection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

KBiCu2S3 is prepared via a facile hydrothermal approach comprising aqueous solutions of KOH, Cu(OAc)2, Bi(NO3)3, and sulfur (autoclave, 240 °C 2-7 d). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycrystalline samples of La1-xMgxO1-2xF2xBiS2 (x = 0.1-0.35) are prepared by solid state reactions of stoichiometric mixtures of La2O3, La2S3, Bi2S3, BiF3, MgF2, LaF3, MgO, S, and Bi (evacuated quartz tube, 1073 K, 10 h). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxygen-deficient TiO2-based composites have attracted widespread attention due to their promoted light-harvesting capacity and energy conversion efficiency, beneficial for water splitting. Despite being a facile, secure-safe and undefiled route for preparing blackened TiO2, the Al-reduction method has not been adopted for preparing TiO2/TiO2−x/CdS composite films. Herein, TiO2/TiO2−x/CdS composite nanorods were successfully fabricated by combining hydrothermal, Al-reduction and chemical bath deposition (CBD) techniques. Enhanced visible-light absorption and photoelectrochemical performances have been achieved using TiO2/TiO2−x/CdS heterojunction nanorods. The photocurrent density of TiO2/TiO2−x/CdS was obtained to be 7.75 mA cm−2 at 0 V vs. Ag/AgCl under AM 1.5 G illumination, which was 77.5-fold and 12.1-fold higher than those of bare TiO2 and CdS, respectively. This work may offer new insights for realizing TiO2-based composites with improved solar absorption for photoelectrochemical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered bismuth oxychalcogenides have been demonstrated as potential candidates for high-speed and low-power electronics due to their outstanding environmental stability and high carrier mobility, but the photoelectric performance of bulk species is still far from satisfactory. Herein, a novel Bi9O7.5S6/CdS composite film with a type-II heterojunction has been successfully prepared by combining chemical bath deposition (CBD) and spin-coating technologies. The structure, morphology, optical and photoelectric properties of the samples were investigated systematically. The photoelectric current of the Bi9O7.5S6/CdS composite film was obtained as 32.49 μA cm−2 at 1 V, which is about 13.9-fold and 3.3-fold higher than those of bare Bi9O7.5S6 and CdS. An enhanced photoelectric response and photostability were achieved in the Bi9O7.5S6/CdS composite film, and can be appropriately attributed to the improved separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers driven by the type-II heterojunction. This work offers a promising route to develop high-performance visible-light photoelectric devices with type-II heterojunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel violet excited reddish-orange emitting Sr 3 Ga 2 Sn 1 · 5 Si 2 · 5 O 14 :Sm3+ (SGSSO:Sm3+) phosphor with high thermal stability was designed and synthesized by the high temperature solid state reaction method for the first time. The photoluminescence (PL) properties of the SGSSO:Sm3+ phosphors were investigated systematically. Under 402 nm violet light excitation, SGSSO:Sm3+ phosphor shows reddish-orange emission at 598 nm that is attributed to the 4G 5/2 → 6H 7/2 transition of the Sm3+ ions. Importantly, the PL intensity of SGSSO:Sm3+ at 423 K can maintain 87% of the initial value at room temperature. The high thermal stability of Sm3+ in SGSSO was speculated to be attributed to the energy transfer mechanism of trap formed by the hetero-valent substitution of Sm3+ at Sr2+ sites. Finally, a WLED has been fabricated by combing the violet LED chip with the as-prepared reddish-orange emitting phosphor, commercial blue BaMgAl 10 O 17 :Eu2+ (BAM:Eu2+) and green (Ba,Sr) 2 SiO 4 :Eu2+ ((Ba,Sr)S:Eu2+) phosphors. The results indicated that the as-prepared SGSSO:Sm3+ phosphor can be a potential candidate of the reddish-orange component for violet chip pumped white-light-emitting-diodes. • A novel Sr 3 Ga 2 Sn 1 · 5 Si 2 · 5 O 14 :Sm3+ reddish-orange phosphor was synthesized for the first time. • Sr 3 Ga 2 Sn 1 · 5 Si 2 · 5 O 14 :Sm3+ phosphor can be excited by 402 nm violet light and exhibited a dominant reddish-orange emission. • Sr 3 Ga 2 Sn 1 · 5 Si 2 · 5 O 14 :Sm3+ phosphor demonstrated a high thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White light emitting diodes (LEDs) suffer from two most common drawbacks: the deficiency of the red component and the poor thermal stability of silicone. Ce3+-doped garnet phosphors with tailor-made luminescence properties can be achieved by variations in {A}, {B}, and {C} cation sites. Herein, a simultaneous ion co-substitution design strategy has been adopted to synthesize a series of (Y, Ca)3(Al, Mg)2(Al, Si)3O12 garnet phosphors and corresponding phosphor-in-glass (PiG) films. The co-substitution is finely restricted to the assigned sites. The emission peak is shifted from 529 to 565 nm, which is beneficial to obtain low color temperatures and high color rendering using a single phosphor for white LEDs. By employing the as-synthesized phosphor, the corresponding PiG films were fabricated by the low temperature co-sintering technology using the SiO2–B2O3–ZnO–Na2O glass system characterized with excellent thermal stability and moisture resistance. The morphological and elemental analyses demonstrated that the as-made phosphor powders were uniformly distributed in the glass host without any interfacial reactions. Finally, modular white LEDs with a high color rendering (Ra = 82.7) is achieved through the as-synthesized PiG film on an InGaN blue chip. This study may open up a facile approach to obtain high quality luminescence based on the mono-luminescence center, avoiding excitation energy wastage and low quantum efficiency aroused by multi-luminescence centers or color compensation phosphors in glass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A series of red-emitting Eu3+-doped K2LaNb5O15 niobate phosphors with tetragonal tungsten bronze-type structure were synthesized by the solid state reaction method. The structure of new tungsten bronze-type K2EuNb5O15 was identified by Rietveld refinements to crystallize in the tetragonal space group P4bm, which is isostructural to K2LaNb5O15. The relative intensity of the emission from both 5D0→7F2 and 5D0→7F1 increases with increasing Eu3+ ion concentration. The quenching mechanism of the K2La1−x Nb5O15:xEu system was investigated in detail. The relationship between Photoluminescence properties and the TTB-type structure was discussed. The quantum efficiency of K2EuNb5O15 excited under near-UV light (399nm) is 132% of that of commercial Y2O3:Eu3+ (394nm). The results demonstrated K2EuNb5O15 phosphor as a potential candidate for white light emitting diode pumped by near-UV or blue chip. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Al-doped α-Ga 2 O 3 nanorod arrays were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. • The bandgap can be regulated from 4.39 to 4.78 eV by adjusting Al-doping. • The highest photocurrent density was achieved in the specimen of 0.15Al:α-Ga 2 O 3. α-Ga 2 O 3 has been attracted a focus of attention in ultraviolet detector applications due to its wide bandgap and cost-effective synthesis technology. This work presents Al-doped α-Ga 2 O 3 nanorod arrays (AG-NRAs) synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The optical and photoelectric properties were systematically investigated. By adjusting Al-doping level, the bandgap can be regulated within a certain range from 4.39 to 4.78 eV. Solar blind UV photoresponse relied on the bandgap has been also studied by direct photocurrent measurements using a sandwich-structured FTO/AG-NRAs/FTO photoelectric device. The highest photocurrent density of 44.1pA/cm2 has been achieved in the specimen with Al-doping ratio of 0.15 with a rapid response time of 0.25 s. This finding offers an in-depth vision for bandgap engineering in AG-NRAs, and alternative approach for fabricating solar-blind UV detector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discovery of pure-red emitting phosphor is great meaningful for the achievement of high color rendering index white light emitting diodes, but still a challenge due to the strict crystal field limitations. In this work, we demonstrate the preparation of a 630 nm pure-red emitting Ca 3 Si 2 O 7 :Eu2+ phosphor for the first time through a CO reduction strategy. The changes in crystal field strength caused by different methods for the preparation of Ca 3 Si 2 O 7 :Eu2+ are investigated and discussed based on the understanding of the thermodynamic theory and structure resolution. Finally, a white light-emitting diode with a high color rendering index (Ra = 98) is accomplished by combining the as-prepared Ca 3 Si 2 O 7 :Eu2+ pure-red emitting phosphor with a 375 nm chip and the commercial used blue and green phosphors. The results also demonstrate the generalizability of the weak reduction strategy for the exploration of "redder" Eu2+ doped phosphors. Pure-red emitting Ca 3 Si 2 O 7 :Eu2+ phosphor was developed by solid state reaction under CO reduction based on the understanding of the thermodynamic theory. Benefiting by the weaker reduction minimizes the impact on the initial crystal field, Eu2+ ions thus presenting an unprecedented 630 nm emission in the as prepared stronger crystal field silicate matrix. [Display omitted] • Pure-red phosphor Ca 3 Si 2 O 7 :Eu2+ was prepared by solid state reaction under CO reduction atmosphere. • The reducing activity of CO is weaker than that of H 2 at 1250 °C according to the thermodynamic theory. • Weak reduction minimizes the impact on the initial crystal field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A series of red-emitting Eu3+-doped phosphors SrLa2Mg2W2O12 were successfully prepared by the solid state reaction and their luminescence properties were investigated in detail. Under 464nm light excitation, the emission intensity at 613nm increased with the Eu3+ ion concentration rising, and the quenching effect did not appear until the Eu3+ ion concentration reached 25%, and the critical distance was calculated to be 7.74Å. The emission intensity of Sr(La0.75Eu0.25)2Mg2W2O12 is approximately three times higher than that of the commercial red phosphor Y2O3:Eu3+ under the blue light, meanwhile, the quantum efficiency of Sr(La0.75Eu0.25)2Mg2W2O12 is about two times higher than that of Y2O3:Eu3+. The Commission Internationale de l′Eclairage chromaticity coordinate of Sr(La0.75Eu0.25)2Mg2W2O12 is (x=0.660, y=0.340), which is closed to the standard of NTSC (x=0.670, y=0.330). The results indicate that Sr(La1−x Eu x )2Mg2W2O12 could be a potential red phosphor in fabrication of blue chips WLEDs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) have shown great promise as transparent conductive films (TCFs) due to their excellent optoelectronic performance. In order to replace indium tin oxide (ITO), considerable intricate methods have been adopted in combination, thus largely restricting their large-scale applications. Currently, it remains a concern that the research on AgNWs-based TCFs is still required great efforts to balance the high optical transparency and low resistance simultaneously. Here, we deposited AgNWs network onto silica nanospheres (SNSs) antireflection (AR) layer via a facile solution method. The assembled SNSs structure can effectively reduce reflection of the substrate. AgNWs-based composite TCFs achieve optical transmittance of 99.84%, elevating the transmittance by 6.94% with the sheet resistance reaching 49.43 Ω sq−1 declined by 8.66% compared to the pristine AgNWs film. Due to the surface adsorption of nanospheres and the mutual electrophilic effect, the interaction between AgNWs and SNSs is strong, hence exerting the synergetic effect on optoelectronic performance. Furthermore, the results have demonstrated that SNSs AR nanostructure contributes to moderating the interface property of pristine AgNWs film, indicating that it is favorable to ameliorate the impact of increased surface roughness stemming from the interwoven nanowires network structure. The whole solution-processed AgNWs/SNSs composite films in our work bring about great potential engineering for transparent conductors or other optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of high quantum yield Li 2 Ge 4 O 9 :Mn4+ phosphors are prepared by solid-state reaction method, and their structure has been determined by X-ray powder diffraction with Rietveld refinement. The excitation spectra of Li 2 Ge 4 O 9 :Mn4+ exhibits two excitation bands at 300–400 nm and 400–500 nm corresponding to 4A 2 →4T 1 and 4A 2 →4T 2 transition of Mn4+ ions respectively, and emission spectra from 625 to 750 nm with the strongest emission peak at 671 nm owing to the 4E→4A 2 transition of Mn4+ ions. The optimal Mn4+ doping concentrations of Li 2 Ge 4 O 9 host are determined to be 0.3 mol% and the optimum synthesis temperature is found 800 °C. The Li 2 Ge 4 O 9 :Mn4+ phosphor demonstrated high quantum yield. The as-prepared phosphor shows excellent water-resistance and thermal stability property compared with commercial used K 2 SiF 6 :Mn4+ phosphor. Finally, a white LED with improved Ra (from 72.5 to 82) and reduced Tc (from 6530 K to 6107 K) was fabricated by using a 450 nm blue chip with Y 3 Al 5 O 12 :Ce3+ and the as-prepared Li 2 Ge 4 O 9 :0.003Mn4+ phosphor. • Li 2 Ge 4 O 9 :Mn4+ phosphor was synthesized by flux method. • Li 2 Ge 4 O 9 :Mn4+ presented red light emission under UV light excitation. • Li 2 Ge 4 O 9 :Mn4+ have high quantum yield and good moisture resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of graphene transparent conductive films (TCFs) can be greatly enhanced by introducing an antireflection (AR) nanostructure. We directly deposited graphene on silica nanosphere/acid-catalyzed silica layer (SNS/a-SL) AR nanostructure by assisted catalysis of Cu nanoparticles in ambient pressure chemical vapor deposition to obtain graphene composite TCFs. By introducing the SNS/a-SL AR nanostructure, the transmittance and sheet resistance of graphene TCFs achieved were 89.65% and 2.04 kΩ sq−1, respectively. Compared to graphene films, the transmittance was improved by 5.5% and sheet resistance was reduced by 0.44 kΩ sq−1. The SNS/a-SL AR nanostructure effectively reduced reflection from the substrates owing to the structure of gradient refractive index and exhibited good stability at high temperatures because of the existence of a-SL. The AR nanostructure also could provide more electronic transport channels to achieve regulation of the electrical property of graphene TCFs. This method simultaneously improves the transmittance and conductivity of graphene TCFs by a facile process, providing an important method to prepare graphene TCFs with excellent performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • BiOCuS and SnS microcrystals were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal route. • BiOCuS/SnS/ITO composite film was prepared by doctor blade coating. • Enhanced photoelectric performance was achieved by forming the heterojunction. In recent years, the development of efficient and environmentally friendly materials for energy conversion and storage has gained significant attention. Herein, a novel BiOCuS/SnS composite film was prepared by doctor blade coating for potential applications in photoelectric devices. The structural, morphological, and optical properties of the films were studied systemically. The photocurrent of the BiOCuS/SnS composite film was obtained as 63.53 μA/cm2 at 1 V, which is about 10-fold and 102-fold of that of bare BiOCuS and SnS films, respectively. The enhanced photoelectric response in the BiOCuS/SnS composite film can be attributed to the improved separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers driven by the heterojunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene-based transparent conductive films (TCFs) are promising alternative to indium tin oxide owing to their high transmittance and conductivity. Graphene films were directly deposited on quartz substrates by assisted catalysis of Cu nanoparticles in ambient pressure chemical vapor deposition. Growth conditions, including the concentration of Cu nanoparticles as catalyst, flow rate of CH4, temperature and growth time, were systematically investigated to optimize the quality and performance of graphene TCFs. With the optimized growth conditions, the obtained graphene TCFs exhibit good performance with sheet resistance of 2.48 kΩ sq−1 at transmittance of 82.83%. With this method, graphene TCFs with good performance were obtained without the need of a complex transfer process of graphene, opening a considerable route toward fabricating graphene TCFs on dielectric substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered bismuth oxychalcogenides have recently emerged as promising photoelectric materials due to their visible-light bandgaps, effective charge separation, high carrier mobility, and long carrier lifetime. In order to verify the potential application of Bi 9 O 7.5 S 6 for water splitting, Bi 9 O 7.5 S 6 /CdS composite film was prepared by combining the knife-coating and chemical bath deposition (CBD) methods. The structure, morphology and band positions were completely checked and revealed a type Ⅱ heterojunction structure in Bi 9 O 7.5 S 6 /CdS composite film. The thickness-dependent optical, impedance and photoelectrochemical properties have been also studied. Under the irradiation of AM 1.5 G simulated sunlight, a stable photocurrent density of ∼ 259.73 μA/cm2 has been obtained for the Bi 9 O 7.5 S 6 /CdS photoanode at 0 V vs. Ag/AgCl, which is about 5-fold and 40-fold higher than that of bare CdS and Bi 9 O 7.5 S 6 photoanodes due to the formation of the type Ⅱ heterojunction between Bi 9 O 7.5 S 6 and CdS. This work demonstrates the promising prospects of layered bismuth oxychalcogenide as cost effective, highly stable and efficient photocatalysts for water splitting. [Display omitted] • Bi 9 O 7.5 S 6 /CdS/ITO composite film was fabricated as a photoelectrode of PEC. • A type Ⅱ heterojunction has been revealed by UV–Vis and UPS spectra measurements. • The separation and migration of photogenerated carriers have been accelerated. • Giant enhanced photocatalytic activity has been achieved in Bi 9 O 7.5 S 6 /CdS/ITO composite film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new compound Bi9O7.5S6 is hydrothermally synthesized from Bi(NO3)3, thiourea, KOH, and LiOH dissolved in a 1:1 mixture of H2O and EtOH (autoclave, 180 °C, 72 h). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Site preferences of Eu2+ ions on the Ba2+ sites and the Ca2+ sites were discovered in the mixed cation borosilicate Ba 2 CaB 2 Si 4 O 14 (BCBSO). Eu2+ ions are more likely to locate on the Ba2+ sites over the Ca2+ sites according to the Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation and the photoluminescence spectrum analysis. The emission band centered at 408 ​nm was confirmed to be generated from the Eu2+ ions located on the Ba2+ sites, while the emission band centered at 548 ​nm was considered to be generated from the Eu2+ ions on the Ca2+ sites. Dual sites occupation results in a collective emission band covering 380 ​nm–780 ​nm in BCBSO:Eu phosphors. By further doping with Sr2+ ions, crystal environment of the luminescence centers could be well modulated, resulting in the tunable emission from yellow to white under UV excitation. The photoluminescence quantum yield was significantly improved from 17.9% to 36.8%. Finally, a series of white LEDs with tunable CCT (from 5132 ​K to 3402 ​K) and high Ra (reach up to 89.6) were obtained using the Ba 2(1- y /3) Ca (1- y /3) Sr y B 2 Si 4 O 14 :0.03Eu single-phase white light emission phosphors. A single-phase white light emission Ba 2(1- y /3) Ca (1- y /3) Sr y B 2 Si 4 O 14 :Eu2+ phosphor with superior advantage in color tunability was designed via tendentious multiple sites occupation strategy. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of Ba 2(1- y /3) Ca (1- y /3) Sr y B 2 Si 4 O 14 :Eu2+ phosphors. • Sites preference of Eu2+ on the sites of Ba2+ and Ca2+. • Cationic substitution to modulate the surrounding lattice environment of Eu2+. • Generation of warm white light by single-phase phosphors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To avoid the complex transfer progress of graphene with the traditional chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, we have developed a Cu nanoparticles (NPs) assisted-catalysis CVD process to directly deposit graphene on insulating substrates. It allows to controllably grow graphene by atmosphere pressure CVD according to regulating the distribution of Cu NPs. The fundamental growth conditions have been systematically investigated and the obtained graphene has preferable photoelectrical performance. Compared with a whole coated distribution of Cu NPs on the substrate, the transmittance of controllably deposited graphene significantly increases by 8.25% with decreased sheet resistance simultaneously. We further regulated the distribution of Cu NPs on the insulating substrate with a designed mask and directly prepared the patterned graphene with good achievement. This approach provides a facile and cost-effective way to directly prepare high-quality patterned graphene on target substrates and opens up a novel idea for fabricating various functional electronic devices. [Display omitted] • Graphene was directly and controllably deposited on insulating substrates via a Cu nanoparticles assisted-catalysis CVD. • The performance of graphene TCFs significantly was improved compared with a whole coated distribution of Cu nanoparticles. • The patterned graphene was obtained, providing a facile and cost-effective way to avoid complex etching way of graphene.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bi 2 Fe 4 O 9 microcrystals were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal route. • Thin films were prepared by knife coating with a visible-light bandgap of 2.13 eV. • Improved photovoltaic effect was achieved by increasing the poling electric field. Ferroelectric photovoltaics have attracted extremely attention due to their unique internal electric field driven by the polarization. Herein, the multiferroic Bi 2 Fe 4 O 9 microcrystals were synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method and Bi 2 Fe 4 O 9 thin films were prepared by knife coating. The phase purity, morphology and chemical component of the sample were detected by powder XRD, SEM and EDS tests. A visible-light bandgap about 2.13 eV has been revealed in Bi 2 Fe 4 O 9. An enhanced bulk photovoltaic effect was observed in poled sample (at 30 kV/cm2) with a steady-state photocurrent of 0.62 µA/cm2 and photovoltage of 0.16 V under the standard AM 1.5G illumination. This finding may offer a promising candidate for potential photoelectric devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuInTe2/graphene composites were fabricated by spark plasma sintering and their thermoelectric properties were investigated. Embedding graphene sheets into CuInTe2 led to decreased thermal conductivity, which can be ascribed to the enhanced phonon scattering by the interface between graphene and the matrix. An improved dimensionless figure of merit (ZT) of 0.40 at 700 K was achieved in a CuInTe2/graphene composite with a mass ratio of 80 : 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Hydrothermal synthesis, characterization and magnetic properties of a series of ABO3-perovskites LaFe1−x Cr x O3 (0≤x≤1) are reported. The alkalinity in initial reaction mixtures plays a critical role in controlling the designed stoichiometry of the final compositions. Their magnetic properties are strongly dependent on the compositions and a maximum magnetic moment is found for the sample at x=0.5. Weak ferromagnetic interaction observed for the samples from x=0 to 0.9 arises from the presence of Fe–O–Fe antisymmetric exchange and Fe–O–Cr superexchange interaction. The weak ferromagnetism as well as the linear variation of the lattice parameters implies the possible random distribution of Fe and Cr ions in B sites of the perovskites. The evolution of magnetic ordering transition temperatures has a close relationship with substituent ratios, for the competition of antiferromagnetism and ferromagnetism. The saturated magnetic moment shows a great improvement compared with that for the samples synthesized by solid state method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cascaded H-bridge power quality improving device (PQID) has garnered extensive attention for its flexible electric energy conversion and fast voltage response. However, the failure rate of PQID is relatively high due to the use of large numbers of power electronic devices. This paper proposes a mechanical-switch based adaptive fault ride-through strategy for improving the operational stability and power supply reliability of PQID. According to the features of the topology and working principle of PQID, this paper summarized the types of internal faults and analyzed the characteristics of different types of faults. Based on the shortcomings of existing mechanical switches as a bypass method, corresponding adaptive fault ride-through strategies are proposed for different types of faults, and a comprehensive simulation test has been carried out. The results show that the proposed strategy can adaptively ride through unit faults and effectively improve the output waveform quality during the ride through time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: RMn2O5 (R=La, Pr, Nd, Tb, Bi) crystallites were prepared by a mild hydrothermal method and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and magnetic measurement. The formation of manganates was sensitive to the alkalinities and Mn-containing precursors of the reaction mixtures. This family of manganates is isostructural and has a space group of Pbam. The magnetic measurements for RMn2O5 showed an antiferromagnetic transition. The strong irreversibility between the ZFC and FC curves indicated a helicoidally magnetic structure below 40K. The max d.c. susceptibilities of LaMn2O5+ δ (δ=0.01, 0.06, 0.08, 0.16, 0.17) were found to be variable and the excess oxygen (δ) in the compounds was influenced by the alkalinity used in the hydrothermal synthesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The calcium-doped manganates, Pr1− x Ca x MnO3 (x=0.39, 0.46, 0.70, 0.76), were synthesized as cube-shaped crystalline phases under mild hydrothermal conditions for the first time. The crystals could be grown in one step from solutions of metal salts and potassium hydroxide at temperatures ∼240°C, and found to adopt perovskite-like structure (space group Pbnm). Samples were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, inductively coupled plasma analysis and variable temperature dc/ac magnetic susceptibility. The studies indicate that formation of the materials is dependent on the alkalinity and composition of the initial reaction mixtures. The magnetic properties show spin-glass-like behavior due to competing ferromagnetic (FM) and antiferromagnetic (AFM) exchange interactions in Pr1− x Ca x MnO3 with , 0.46. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this work, a novel red-emitting oxyfluoride phosphor Na2NbOF5:Mn4+ with an ultra-intense zero-phonon line (ZPL) was successfully synthesized by hydrothermal method. The phase composition and luminescent properties of Na2NbOF5:Mn4+ were studied in detail. The photoluminescence excitation spectrum contains two intense excitation bands centered at 369 and 470 nm, which match well with commercial UV and blue light-emitting diode (LED) chips. When excited by 470 nm blue light, Na2NbOF5:Mn4+ exhibits red light emission dominated by ZPL. Notably, the color purity of the Na2NbOF5:Mn4+ red phosphor can reach 99.9%. Meanwhile, the Na2NbOF5:Mn4+ phosphor has a shorter fluorescence decay time than commercial K2SiF6:Mn4+, which is conducive to fast switching of images in display applications. Profiting from the intense ZPL, white light-emitting diode (WLED) with high color rendering index of Ra = 86.2 and low correlated color temperature of Tc = 3133 K is realized using yellow YAG:Ce3+ and red Na2NbOF5:Mn4+ phosphor. The WLED fabricated using CsPbBr3 quantum dots (QDs) and red Na2NbOF5:Mn4+ phosphor shows a wide color gamut of 127.56% NTSC (National Television Standard Committee). The results show that red-emitting Na2NbOF5:Mn4+ phosphor has potential application prospects in WLED lighting and display backlight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sr 4 Nb 2 O 9 :Eu3+ phosphors were prepared by flux method. SrF 2 was found to be the appropriate flux and its effect on the crystal structure and optical properties were investigated. The structure of Sr 4 Nb 2 O 9 :Eu3+ has been determined by X-ray powder diffraction with Rietveld refinement. The optimal Eu3+ doping concentrations and the SrF 2 usage in Sr 4 Nb 2 O 9 were determined to be 0.13 mol and 5 wt% respectively. The spectra analysis indicated that the phosphors could be excited by near UV light of 394 nm and blue light of 465 nm, and yield an intense red light with a maximum at 614 nm. The as prepared phosphor shows its advantages in quantum yield and thermal stability when compared with that of CaMoO 4 :Eu3+, Y 3 Al 5 O 12 :Ce3+, CaAlSiN 3 :Eu2+ phosphors. Finally, a white LED with improved R a (from 75.6 to 82.5) was fabricated by using a 450 nm blue chip with Y 3 Al 5 O 12 :Ce3+ and the as-prepared Sr 4 Nb 2 O 9 :0.13Eu3+, 0.05SrF 2 phosphor. • Sr 4 Nb 2 O 9 :Eu3+ phosphor was synthesized by flux method. • Sr 4 Nb 2 O 9 :Eu3+ presented red light emission under UV light excitation. • Sr 4 Nb 2 O 9 :Eu3+ have high PL intensity and internal quantum efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]