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In this paper, Bi2212 films were prepared on LaAlO 3 (100) and SrTiO 3 (100) substrates by the sol-gel method using Bi(NO 3) 3 ·5H 2 O, Sr(NO 3) 2 , Ca(NO 3) 2 ·4H 2 O and Cu(NO 3) 2 ·3H 2 O as raw materials. TritonX-100 (TX-100), fatty alcohol poly oxyethylene ether (AEO-9), poly (vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) and poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were used as surfactants, respectively, to improve the wettability between the sol and the substrate. When glycine and glycolic acid were used as complexing agents, these surfactants were stably miscible with the sols. The effects of different surfactant sol-gel systems on the wettability of substrates as well as the crystallinity, morphology, surface roughness and electrical transport properties of Bi2212 superconducting films were investigated. The results showed that flat and continuous c -axis epitaxial Bi2212 films were obtained using all these sol-gel systems. In particular, TX-100 and AEO-9 as surfactants showed stronger wettability of the sol-gel for both substrates. In addition, the films prepared using polymer surfactants PVP and PVA sol-gel systems showed less surface roughness. The same patterns were found in all the film samples prepared using precursor sols of different complexing agents, and all the films exhibited good electrical transport properties. This work lays a certain research foundation for the preparation of thin films by aqueous solvent sol-gel method. The method also shows great potential in terms of the stability of different sol-gel systems and the improvement of the wettability of different substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexed sol-gel method has unique advantages in the preparation of multi-component functional thin films. In this paper, Bi2212 superconducting thin films were prepared by sol-gel method on SrTiO 3 (100) single crystal substrates. Glycine and glycolic acid were used as complexing agents. The thermal decomposition processes of the two sols were analyzed by contrasting thermal-thermogravimetric curves. The heat treatment processes of the different complexing agent systems were optimized to obtain films with flatter surface morphology. The phase composition of the intermediate products during the precursor heat treatment was changed by adjusting the conditions of the complexing agent and the acidity of the sol, which expanded the pure phase temperature interval of the final product. The pure phase temperature interval, morphology, surface roughness, and electrical transport properties of Bi2212 superconducting films prepared with different complexing agent sol-gel systems were investigated. When glycolic acid was used as the complexing agent, the Bi-2212 superconducting films showed the widest phase formation temperature zones of 25 K. They also had a smaller surface roughness of 10–15 nm. Other than that, all samples had good epitaxial properties, and electrical transport properties. This work provides a new idea for expanding the phase-forming temperature region of multicomponent functional ceramics. It also shows the promising potential of sol-gel method for preparing multicomponent functional films with high quality surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead-free ceramics have attracted considerable research attention owing to their environmentally friendly properties as well as their relatively good piezoelectric properties. Herein, we doped BiCoO 3 (BCO) onto (Bi 0.5 Na 0.5)TiO 3 –6BaTiO 3 (BNT-6BT) solid solution at various concentrations and investigated their dielectric and piezoelectric properties. After comparing the Rietveld refinement data with X-ray diffraction (XRD) results, it was found that all the BNT-6BT- x BCO ceramics (x = 0, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%) showed the morphotropic phase boundary conformation with coexisting tetragonal (P4bm) and cubic (Pm 3 (＿) m) phases. XRD refinement data also demonstrated that with increasing BCO concentration to 1.5%, the mole ratio between the tetragonal and cubic phases was close to 1:1, which enhanced the piezoelectric performance of the ceramic composites. At a BCO concentration of 1.5%, the strain and piezoelectric coefficient (d 33) of the sample reached 0.31% and 196 pC/N, respectively. The highest effective d 33 * of 489 pm/V was obtained at 110 °C with BNT-6BT-1.5BCO ceramics. The BNT-6BT-xBCO ceramics show great promise for use in high-temperature actuator applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Double-peak age strengthening phenomenon was first found in the Cu–Be–Ni–Co alloys. • The coherency strengthening of tiny nanoprecipitates contributes significantly to the appearance of first peak. • The light-mass Be atoms were directly made out by using the iDPC-STEM technology. Unconventional double-peak age strengthening phenomenon has occasionally been observed in some alloys, yet the underlying mechanism responsible for this phenomenon are still unclear. Here, we for the first time report the double-peak age strengthening phenomenon in the Cu–Be–Ni–Co alloys and try to unveil the underlying mechanism. Both the theoretical and experimental analyses demonstrate that the strong coherency strengthening effect of tiny nanoprecipitates (<1 nm) contributes significantly to the appearance of first peak, whereas the order-to-Orowan strengthening transformation accounts for the appearance of second peak. Moreover, the precipitate evolution processes of the alloys are identified as Guinier–Preston (GP) zones → γ′′→ γ′ and the light-mass Be atoms in the γ′ phase are directly made out by using integrated differential phase-contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy (iDPC-STEM) technology. Our work may provide new insights into the coherency strengthening effects and demonstrates a powerful strategy for designing high performance via double-peak behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO nanodevices have been widely used in practice, but one-dimensional ZnO grown in a polar preferred orientation is still partially localized. In this work, copper nitrate, nickel nitrate and silver nitrate were assisted with zinc acetate and hexamethylenetetetramine for the synthesis of ZnO films by conventional chemical bath deposition method. All samples were characterised by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, photoluminescence, and UV–visible spectrophotometer. The results show that non-polar (110), (100) and coexisting preferred orientation ZnO films were controllably prepared by controlling the type and concentration of nitrate. On this basis, the growth process and mechanism of ZnO films with different nonpolar preferred orientations were characterized. It was also found that the ZnO films with 5 % Cu(NO 3) 2 ·3 H 2 O had the minimum surface roughness. The PL spectra confirmed the type and number of defects were also related to the preferred orientations. In addition, the non-polar (110) preferred orientation ZnO films had the highest optical transmittance of 82.26 %. This work enriches the method of preparing ZnO films with various nonpolar preferred orientations and provides new ideas for the design of ZnO-based transparent nanodevices. [Display omitted] • The defects and preferred orientation of ZnO film were effectively controlled by changing Cu, Ni and Ag ion concentrations. • Effective control of the preferred orientations of ZnO films. • Effective control of surface morphology and roughness by controlling cation type and concentration. • Analyzed the relationship between preferred orientations and internal defects of ZnO films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to achieve flexible applications of superconducting thin film materials in devices, the surface quality of the film is critical. The thickness of the film is one of the important factors affecting its surface quality. In this paper, Bi2212 superconducting thin films of different thicknesses were prepared on LaAlO 3 (100) and SrTiO 3 (100) single crystal substrates by sol-gel method and the effects of film thickness and different heterogeneous structures on their crystallographic, morphological and superconducting properties were investigated. The results showed that the roughness gradually increased with increasing Bi2212 thickness at the initial stage of film growth and stabilized after reaching a certain thickness, while the superconducting properties were destroyed at very small sample thickness, which was consistent in both single-crystal substrate films. In the Bi2212/LaAlO 3 structure, the surface quality of the sample was excellent with a roughness of 5.4 nm at a thickness of about 18 nm for Bi2212, and the growth of the precipitated phase was inhibited to a greater extent. The film also had good superconductivity. This work provided a further research basis for the preparation of high quality Bi2212 films and offers further possibilities for their practical application. [Display omitted] • Preparation of epitaxially grown multi-component functional thin films-Bi2212 superconducting films. • Effective regulation of film thickness. • Effective improvement of the surface quality of the film by regulating the thickness of the film. • Modelling the variation process of the effect of film thickness on its surface quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of gas sensors based on metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) with highly regular morphology, highly stable structures, and easy preparation is greatly desired but remains a challenge. Herein, we first prepared a highly regular array of TiO 2 nanorods on FTO by a modified in situ hydrothermal method. Then a uniform SnO 2 layer grew on the nanorods to form a core-shell nanocomposite by an ion-layer adsorption-reaction process. The TiO 2 /SnO 2 sensors show enhanced gas sensing performance compared with the TiO 2 sensors, including higher sensitivity to ethanol, lower working temperature, and better long-term stability. And the highest ethanol response can be obtained when the growth cycle of the SnO 2 shell was two times. The gas-sensing mechanism of the TiO 2 /SnO 2 nanocomposites was discussed concerning the unique core-shell structure and a heterojunction between TiO 2 and SnO 2. • Core-shell TiO 2 /SnO 2 nanorod arrays were prepared via a facile two-step method. • The TiO 2 /SnO 2 exhibited better ethanol sensing properties compared with pristine TiO 2. • The enhanced ethanol sensitivity mechanism of TiO 2 /SnO 2 was discussed detailed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Powder metallurgy (PM) Ti–6Al–2Sn–4Zr–2Mo–0.1Si–(0, 2, 4)W (wt%) alloys were fabricated by thermomechanical consolidation of TiH 2 -based powder compacts and subsequent heat treatments. Samples of the as-fabricated alloys were also heated at 650 °C for 200 h. The addition of 2 or 4 wt%W to the base alloy changed its microstructure of parallel α/β lamellar colonies and grain boundary α (α GB) to an interwoven α/β t microstructure consisting of α GB and a network of interpenetrating α plates with β transformed structure (β t) domains comprising variants of fine α laths and β matrix. The partition of the β stabilizing W between β and α phases and the low diffusivity of W atoms limited the growth of α plates/laths, decreasing the thickness of α plates/laths and increasing the volume fraction of β. The increased hardening of the β phase and enhanced α/β interface strengthening associated with the 4 wt%W addition led to a significant increase in the tensile strength of the alloy from 1281 ± 10–1411 ± 12 MPa. However, the high flow stress and the very fine microstructure caused significant strain localization in the weak α GB , resulting in premature fracture of the α GB (intergranular fracture) and the low ductility (1.4%). Here, premature fracture meant the fracture occurred prior to the alloy reaching its ultimate tensile strength. The heating caused the β interlaths in the W-free alloy to partially dissolve and become β particles distributed along the original lines of β interlaths accompanied by the precipitation of α 2 -Ti 3 Al in the α plates. The addition of W inhibited the dissolution of β interlaths and caused the precipitation of a higher volume fraction of α 2 precipitates during heating. The microstructural changes caused by heating resulted in a slight decrease in strength and a significant decrease in ductility for the W-free alloy, but a significant increase of the yield strength of the 2 W and 4 W alloys with some sacrifice of the tensile ductility. The microstructural reasons for the effects on mechanical properties were analyzed with the assistance of detailed characterization of the dislocations in the deformed specimens. • Effects of W alloying on a PM Ti–6Al–2Sn–4Zr–2Mo–0.1Si alloy are investigated. • W refines α plates and enhances formation of β transformed structure domains. • W enhances hardening of the β phase and α/β interface strengthening. • W increases the microstructural stability and prevents the strength reduction from heating. • High W content promotes α 2 precipitation strengthening of the alloy after heating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • PEC catalysis of PET to produce formate was coupled with H 2 production. • FE for formate was up to 87% with Ni-Pi/α-Fe 2 O 3 photoanode. • The cell voltage of the PEC system was 270 mV lower than water splitting. • A PEC paradigm to upcycle real-world waste PET plastic was provided. There is no satisfactory treatment technology for plastic waste, which has been a global challenge so far. Here, we report a photoelectrochemical approach for efficient valorization of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic to produce formate coupled with green hydrogen production. Due to the cocatalytic effect of nickel phosphate (Ni-Pi) on α-Fe 2 O 3 photoanode, the Faradaic efficiency of PET hydrolysate solution to formate reached as high as 87% in aqueous electrolyte without any additional oxidant. In addition, an integrated PET oxidation-hydrogen production system achieved a photocurrent density of 1.5 mA/cm2 at a cell voltage of 1.1 V, which is 270 mV lower than the conventional water splitting. Furthermore, we also demonstrate that high selective formate production was also applicable to real-world waste PET plastic. This work provides a sustainable paradigm on photoelectrochemical strategy to upcycle waste PET plastic into value-added chemicals and green hydrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The durability of the current polymeric heart valves remains to be improved, which has proven to be highly dynamics and species dependent. Herein, inspired by the fiber-reinforced structure of native valve leaflets, we developed a valve prototype with the polymer matrix reinforced by NiTi wires in the radial direction, to achieve both desirable dynamics control and stress reduction. Textile technology and computer modeling were primarily utilized for integrated construction and biomimetic geometry. The NiTi-reinforced textile composites had suitable properties with valve leaflets. The pulsating flow tests confirmed that the systolic hemodynamics and leaflet kinetics were significantly optimized through the stiffness-domination of NiTi wires. Particle imaging velocimetry measurements revealed the satisfactory flow field characteristic for VP40-RA6 when compared with other reinforced valves. Furthermore, the finite element analysis indicated that the maximum principal stress and the area percentage of that were significantly reduced. As a preliminary proof-of-concept, this novel valve prototype exhibited excellent comprehensive performance which would be beneficial for the further improvement of long-term durability and provide new insight into the design modification of heart valve prosthesis. [Display omitted] • The valve prototype was built by integrated textile technology and computer modeling. • The valve prototype exhibited excellent hemodynamics indicators and leaflet kinetics. • The flow field characteristic was satisfactory. • The polymer matrix within the hybrid leaflet sustained lower stress level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of efficient, environmentally friendly soil amendments is necessary in order to minimize the risk of metal contaminants (Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn) to the soil ecosystem. As soil amendments, bovine bone meal (BM) and oyster shell meal (OS) reduced the mobility and bioavailability of metals primarily by increasing soil pH. Soil geochemical properties (pH, EC, CEC, Ca, P, and K) after amendment supplementation were more likely to affect metal migration than enzyme activity. Furthermore, BM and OS were found to suppress the Cd and Pb uptake by water spinach, keeping them below international standards for safe utilization. The protein and sugar content and peroxidase (POD) activity showed a significant negative correlation with the amount of metal in water spinach, whereas superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) content exhibited a positive correlation with metal content in water spinach. We also found that BM and OS had less perturbation to phylum-level and genus-level bacterial composition during the remediation of heavy metals contaminated soil. Based on the above, we assume that BM and OS are eco-friendly soil amendments, which could improve soil nutrients contents, stabilize heavy metals and regulate bacterial community structure. Our research contributes to resource utilization of waste and holds promise for widespread application in current agricultural systems. [Display omitted] • BM and OS reduced the bioavailability of Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn in soil. • BM and OS inhibited the uptake of Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn by water spinach. • BM and OS reduced the abundance of metal-tolerant bacteria in soil. • Major geochemical factors altering the bacterial community were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an urgent medical need to develop effective therapies that can ameliorate damage to the radiation-exposed hematopoietic system. Nanozymes with robust antioxidant properties have a therapeutic potential for mitigating radiation-induced hematopoietic injury. However, enhancing nanozyme recruitment to injured tissues in vivo while maintaining their catalytic activity remains a great challenge. Herein, we present the design and preparation of a biomimetic nanoparticle, a mesenchymal stem cell membrane camouflaged Prussian blue nanozyme (PB@MSCM), which exhibits biocompatible surface properties and demonstrates enhanced injury site-targeting towards the irradiated murine bone marrow niche. Notably, the constructed PB@MSCM possessed redox enzyme-mimic catalytic activity and could scavenge overproduced reactive oxygen species in the irradiated bone marrow cells, both in vitro and ex vivo. More importantly, the administration of PB@MSCM significantly mitigated hematopoietic cell apoptosis and accelerated the regeneration of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Our findings provide a new targeted strategy to improve nanozyme therapy in vivo and mitigate radiation-induced hematopoietic injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two samples of an α + β Ti-4Al-4Mo-4Sn-0.5Si (wt%) alloy, one with fine prior β grains and a heterogeneous microstructure and the other with coarse prior β grains and a homogeneous microstructure were prepared by extrusion of compacts of TiH 2 /Al/Mo/Sn/Si powder blend at 1200 and 1300 °C respectively. The heterogeneous microstructure is manifested by softer Mo-rich regions with a full α/β lamellar structure containing a high number density of parallel and nanometer sized FCC δ (TiH) needles in a harder matrix with a microstructure consisting of interweaved α plates and β transformed structure (β t) domains and grain boundary α (GB α) layers. The matrix also contains a small fraction of Sn-rich regions which have the same microstructure as the matrix. The Mo-rich and Sn-rich regions form due to the limited diffusion of Mo and Sn alloying elements. This heterogeneous microstructure sustains a high tensile yield strength of 1199 MPa, a high strain hardening rate, and an excellent tensile ductility of 12.0%. In contrast, the homogeneous microstructure comprising of interweaved α plates and β t domains together with GB α layers sustains a similar high strength, but a clearly lower strain hardening rate and a significantly lower tensile ductility of 3.5%. Non-homogeneous deformation capacity, the release of energy by forming numerous microcracks and the intermittent growth of microcracks of the heterogeneous microstructure suggest that this microstructure has a high plasticity and high resistance to the growth of microcracks. • The α + β titanium alloy fabricated has a heterogeneous microstructure and fine prior β grains. • The heterogeneous microstructure encompasses softer Mo-rich regions in a matrix of α/β t microstructure. • This alloy exhibits a superior combination of high strength (YS: 1199 MPa and excellent ductility (12.0%). • This is attributed to the compatible deformation and high microcrack growth resistance of the microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As cities continuously expand and with the emergence of mega-city regions, the urban functional zones (UFZs) have spread beyond their original administrative boundaries. An accurate and updated delineation of the UFZs is crucial for assessing the functional integration between cities within a mega-city region. Mobility data provides a chance to depict the UFZs from actual human activities at a finer spatial scale. Existing studies mostly adopted network-based approaches relying on the topological relationship but ignoring spatial factors, causing the lack of sensitivity in detecting the cross-cities integration of the functional region. This research proposed a novel regionalisation algorithm that redraws non-overlap boundaries of urban functional zones based on the commuting origin-destination matrix, representing the spatial interactions within cities and cross-cities. In particular, functional zones are drawn by searching for the best partition with the best goodness of fitting in the hierarchical spatial interaction model. The algorithm was applied to a case study of a mega-city region, Shenzhen-Dongguan-Huizhou (SDH) area in China using mobile phone signalling data. By adopting two different settings, this model evaluated the current status and predict the future trend of urban integration respectively. The results show the current boundary of UFZs in the SDH area almost coincides with administrative boundaries. Meanwhile, the results of long-term predictions might be utilised by policymakers to give more attention to the areas near the Dongguan-Huizhou boundary to promote industry cooperation and avoid mismatches between the functional and administrative regions. • A hierarchical spatial interaction model for delineating urban functional zones. • An iteration-based algorithm for searching for the best partition of urban functional zones. • Using emerging mobile phone data for urban planning applications. • A case study of the SDH Area provides insights into cross-boundary city integration and related policy implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur-rich polymers, synthesized through inverse vulcanization, with tunable heteroatom containing crosslinkers were investigated as the S-containing cathode active material within Li–S cells. The polymers possess up to 73% active sulfur while, importantly, not containing any unreacted, crystalline sulfur. Li–S-polymer cells achieve specific capacities of 1206 mAh g s −1 for an active material polymer containing 80 wt% sulfur, with 10 wt% of a structural crosslinker (dicyclopentadiene), and 10 wt% of an oxygen-containing crosslinker (ethylene glycol dimethacrylate). The high capacity achieved within this composition is associated with of this sample, in a higher average sulfur rank within the polymer structure. Furthermore, S-polymers with heteroatomic crosslinkers exhibited lower capacity fade (0.093% per cycle) compared with polymers without functionalized heteroatomic crosslinkers (0.165% per cycle) and elemental sulfur (0.312% per cycle). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed the inherent binding between the ester group carbonyl oxygen within the crosslinker to the long-chain lithium polysulfides, which may inhibit dissolution of these intermediates. • Sulfur polymers with heteroatom containing crosslinkers as cathode in Li–S cells. • Longer sulfur chains benefit electrochemical performance. • Chemical affinity of carbonyl groups impedes dissolution of polysulfides. • Highest specific capacity 1206 mAh g s −1, 0.093% capacity loss per cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• With an addition of 0.2 wt%Si, the Si atoms are equally in α and β phases. • Si solute atoms retard the growth of α phase, causing refinement of the α/β t lamellar structure. • Si atoms enhance solid solution strengthening and Si atoms enhanced α/β t interface strengthening. • Increasing the Si content to 0.5 wt% cause a further increase of the yield strength by 50 MPa. • With a high strength, the tensile ductility deteriorates, due to the premature fracture of grain boundary α layers. Ti-4Al-4Mo-4Sn-xSi (wt%) (x = 0, 0.2, 0.5) alloys were fabricated by hot extrusion of compacts of blends of TiH 2 , AlMo60 master alloy and other required elemental powders followed by heat treatments involving vacuum annealing, solution treatment, air cooling and aging. The microstructure of the alloys consists of α plates, lamellae of α and transformed β structure (β t), β t blocks as well as grain boundary α layers. With the addition of 0.2 wt%Si, the Si atoms exist in equal concentration in both α and β t regions as solute atoms, and they retard the growth of α phase, causing a decrease of the average thickness of α plates and lamellae and slight increase of the volume fraction of β t lamellae and blocks. The solid solution strengthening and enhanced α/β interface hardening brought by the 0.2 wt%Si cause the yield strength of the Ti-4Al-4Mo-4Sn alloy to increase significantly from 1030 to 1130 MPa with a slight decrease of the tensile ductility (7.4% vs 6.8%) and without changing the fracture behavior. With the addition of 0.5 wt%Si, the extra Si causes nanometer sized silicide (Ti 5 Si 3) precipitates to form in both α and β t regions and further microstructural refinement. The additional α/β interface hardening and precipitation hardening cause the yield strength of the alloy to increase further to 1177 MPa, but the tensile ductility deteriorates clearly with the elongation to fracture decreasing to 4.9%. The main reason for this ductility decrease is the premature fracture of grain boundary α layers caused by the higher flow stress which can induce more strain localization at the grain boundary α layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We focus on the unification and fusion of heterogeneous distributed linguistic information. • We present several minimum information-loss transformation models with desirable properties. • We present a multi-attribute group decision making framework in a heterogeneous distributed linguistic context. • We demonstrate the necessity of flexibility in distributed linguistic decision making. In the problems that linguistic assessments are conducted by adopting multiple sources of information representations, the management of unification of heterogeneous information and information loss are necessary. To support a useful fusion of heterogeneous distributed information in linguistic group decision making, a minimum information-loss transformation framework is proposed in this paper. First, distributed linguistic distance measurements are defined to measure information loss among heterogeneous distributed linguistic preference information, and then several minimum information-loss transformation models (MILTMs) with desirable properties are proposed. Furthermore, the application of the MILTMs in addressing the fusion of heterogeneous distributed linguistic information in a multi-attribute group decision context is discussed, and the flexibility of distributed linguistic information is studied to justify the MILTMs through numerical examples and comparative analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halide perovskite quantum dots have attracted considerable research interest as excellent candidate for photonic and optoelectronic applications due to their unique optoelectronic properties. Stability is prerequisite and therefore is of critical importance. Here we demonstrate highly stable luminescent CsPbBr 3 quantum dots (QDs) can be achieved in different glass matrices via the high temperature melting process and melt-quench method. The microstructure of CsPbBr 3 QDs glass as well as their optical properties are systematically characterized by microscopic techniques and time-resolved spectroscopic techniques. We conclude the surface passivation is the key aspect for the high stability and high luminescence by embedding the quantum dots in the glass matrix. This study provides technical method to form highly stable luminescent solid devices and detailed physical understanding which is critical for the practical applications. • Luminescence in CsPbBr 3 QDs glass were study. • CsPbBr 3 QDs precipitated in 3 kinds of glass matrices. • Exciton recombination is confirmed as the dominant radiative mechanism. • the QDs glass could be flexibly fabricated into various device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

W–Re alloys find wide application in high-temperature measurements and as components of engines and aircraft. However, their low oxidation and thermal shock resistances have limited their application at high temperatures in oxidized atmospheres. In this work, an inner WSi 2 coating was first prepared on the surface of the W-26Re alloy by pack cementation. Subsequently, an outer ZrB 2 -HfO 2 -SiC (ZHS) coating was prepared by the sol-gel method and blade coating, using self-prepared nano-HfO 2 fibers introduced in different ratios (0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%). Following thermal shock tests at 1073–1773 K, the coatings toughened by nano-HfO 2 fibers with high melting point (above 3000 K) showed better thermal shock resistance, especially the 6% HfO 2 -doped coatings. The 6%Hf-ZHS coating underwent the highest number of thermal shock cycles (369), 385.5% and 210.1% higher than those experienced by W-26Re and ZHS. In addition, the thermal shock resistance of ZHS was 56.6% better than of the bare W-26Re alloy. Finally, the protection mechanism of the above coatings was explained by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antiferroelectric film capacitors have attracted increasing attention due to their excellent energy storage properties. In this work, PbZrO 3 (PZO) antiferroelectric films have been prepared on the flexible fluorphlogopite (Mica) and rigid Pt/Ti/SiO 2 /Si substrates with a seed layer of LaNiO 3 (LNO) layer by sol-gel process. The microstructure and energy storage properties of the films have been systematically studied. The results show that the Mica-Pt-LNO-PZO (M -LNO-PZO) thin film has an improved energy storage density (W rec) of 16.6 J/cm3 with a charge and discharge efficiency (η) of 50.4%. Furthermore, the flexible thin films exhibit good stability under a wide working temperature range of 25–140 °C and an electric fatigue endurance of 107 cycles. Besides, the capacitive films can endure a bending radius of 4 mm and 104 bending cycles (@ r = 4 mm) with almost unchanged in the energy storage properties. The excellent energy storage properties endow inorganic thin films with great potential in flexible electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pt-loaded curling-like Bi 2 WO 6 (BWO) microdiscs were fabricated via a simple one-step hydrothermal and impregnation route. Various characterization methods, such as XRD, EDS and TEM, were conducted to prove the successful Pt loading. Electron migration from the semiconductor BWO to the precious metal Pt was revealed by the blue shift of the Bi 4f and W 4f XPS peaks with the increase of the Pt loading amount and the ∼10-fold baseline resistance elevation of the BWO-based sensor by the Pt loading, proving the formation of Schottky junction. Among the pristine BWO and Pt-loaded BWO with different Pt loading amounts, 1 wt % Pt-loaded BWO exhibits the highest gas response of 209 in sensing 500 ppm triethylamine at 300 °C, a minimal selectivity coefficient of 130.6 against some typical interfering gases at the same concentration and a low detection threshold of 1 ppm. Additionally, the sensitization mechanism is discussed as the synergistic effect of noble metal catalytic effect and metal-semiconductor junctions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major difficulty in integrating large scale wind power generation in an electrical power system is that wind generated power appears to be erratic, intermittent, and volatile. In this paper, we demonstrate the efficacies of a novel ultra short term 1-step ahead wind generated power prediction model, by combining two best of breed machine learning models in their respective areas of applications: a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) model, known to be effective in classification problems, and a bi-directional long short term memory (Bi-LSTM) model, known to be effective in 1-step ahead time series prediction problems, using a cross attention (XA) mechanism on three challenging practical datasets: the East-China dataset, the Yalova (Turkey) dataset, and the 16 MW dataset. There are two alternative cross attention models: (1) using the CNN features as the key–value pair, and the Bi-LSTM features as the query, this we called a XA model, and (2) using the Bi-LSTM features as the key–value pair, and the CNN features as the query, this we called a XA_I model; we found empirically for a properly chosen sliding window length, whichever CNN model or Bi-LSTM model performs well in the 1-step ahead prediction, then its features should be used as the query in the cross attention mechanism, thus, the XA achieves better results than XA_I on the East-China dataset, while XA_I achieves better results than XA on the Yalova dataset, and on the 16 MW dataset. Where comparable results using other state-of-the-art models are available on the Yalova dataset and the 16 MW dataset, we found that our XA_I results are superior. Moreover, it is found empirically, that the cross attention mechanism model produces stable k -step ahead predictions, for k ≤ W 2 , where W is the sliding window length. • A novel prediction model for wind generated power based on cross attention mechanism has been proposed. • The proposed method demonstrated on three practical datasets to have superior performance. • The cross attention mechanism based models give a stable multi-step ahead prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A new method was proposed for preparing modified clays to control harmful algae blooms: single source with series modifications. • Kaolin that was modified by the new method could remove over 85% of Prorocentrum donghaiense cells. • Calcination, acid–alkali treatment, and the supplementation of raw kaolin during aging were indispensable processing steps in the new method. • A schematic mechanism of kaolin modification by the new method to obtain modified clay with high algal cell removal efficiency was illustrated. Modified clay (MC) is an effective and eco-friendly material that is widely used for controlling harmful algae blooms (HABs). In this study, a new method—single source with series modifications (SSSM)—was optimized for preparing a high-quality MC, and aluminum-rich clay (kaolin) was activated with a multistep treatment that included calcination (Cal), acid etching with alkali neutralization (Al–An), and raw clay supplementation and aging (RSA). The results showed that the removal efficiency of Prorocentrum donghaiense by the SSSM–MC exceeded 85%; Cal, Al–An, and RSA were indispensable processing steps for preparing the best MC with the SSSM method. The changes occurring in the mineral structure and chemical composition of kaolin treated by the different steps were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, 27Al-NMR and Al-Ferron. Surface dehydroxylation and disruption of the kaolin lattice after calcination significantly changed the aluminum structure from AlVI to AlV and AlIV. The relatively reactive AlV was readily released from the kaolin lattice with acid etching, and it subsequently reacted with external OH– to generate different polyhydroxyaluminum species because alkali was added during the Al–An step. The acidity of the above complex was further decreased by RSA, greatly increasing the yield of SSSM–MC while assuring the quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi ions-doped materials have attracted increasing attention because of their potential applications in LED light sources and imaging displays. However, the correlation between local glass network structure and visible emission of Bi ions is rarely discussed, which hinders the optimization of Bi ions-doped glass. In this work, we prepared the Bi ions-doped borosilicate glasses (Bi-Glass) with tunable visible emissions by changing the content of B 2 O 3. Their optical properties, structure, and temperature-dependent emission were investigated systematically. All the Bi ions-doped glasses show broadband luminescence from 350 nm to 700 nm, the emission bands show a blue shift from 454 nm to 435 nm when the concentration of B 2 O 3 increases from 0% to 10%. The emission intensity reaches the maximum value of 5% B 2 O 3 concentration, which attributes to the number and distribution of bismuth ions luminescent centers. Furthermore, thermoluminescence is observed in this glass system. In this study, the coordination structure around the active centers of bismuth can be changed by modifying the glass network structure, promoting the research of tunable luminescence of bismuth ions-doped glass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ag NPs were loaded on a zinc porphyrin covalent organic framework (Ag@ZnPor-COF). • Ag@ZnPor-COF exhibits excellent ROS generation and photothermal capabilities. • Ag@ZnPor-COF demonstrated outstanding photodynamic antibacterial performance. • Near complete death of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli within 20 min. Porphyrin-based covalent organic frameworks (Por-COFs) show great promise in photodynamic sterilization and elimination of pathogenic bacteria. In this work, a two-dimensional Por-COF was constructed using 5,10,15,20-Tetrakis-(4-aminophenyl)-porphine-Zn(II) (Zn-TAPP) and Dihydroxyterephthalaldehyde (Dha), which was post-synthetically modified with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). Ag@ZnPor-COF delivered extraordinary photodynamic inactivation performance against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli under visible light (99.96 % and 99.75 %, respectively, within 20 min). The localized surface plasmon resonance of the Ag NPs enhanced the absorption of visible light whilst also aiding electron-hole separation, leading to efficient generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), especially singlet oxygen (1O 2). Further, the Ag NPs imparted Ag@ZnPor-COF with photothermal properties, thereby delivering even more effective control of pathogenic bacteria. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations validated the experimental findings, identifying Ag@ZnPor-COF as a potent antibacterial platform. Results encourage the wider use of Por-COFs and plasmonic nanomaterials in the development of antibacterial systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrocatalytic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) represents a promising pathway for producing biomass-derived value-added chemicals. Nevertheless, the use of extremely expensive ion exchange membranes (IEMs) as separators significantly sacrifices the economic benefit in large-scale applications. Herein, we report a cost-effective non-fluorine cation exchange membrane (CEM) by grafting sulfonic acid (-SO 3 -) groups onto the aromatic side chain of the polyethersulfone (PES) polymer. By tuning the content of –SO 3 - groups, the physicochemical properties of the resulting CEMs can be easily adjusted. Impressively, the optimal HBS-PES-1.0 CEM with fully grafted –SO 3 - groups can achieve a high HMF conversion of 100 %, FDCA selectivity of 98.0 %, and Faradaic efficiency of 98.3 % when used as the separator for electrocatalytic oxidation of HMF, surpassing that of the commercial Nafion 117 membrane (100 % HMF conversion, 98.1 % FDCA selectivity, and 97.4 % Faradaic efficiency). This study provides a cost-effective and high-performance CEM as a substitute for the expensive commercial membrane, paving the way to large-scale commercial applications of biomass upgrading through the electrolysis process. A cost-effective non-fluorine sulfonated polymer with low membrane area resistance and excellent alkali-resistance is reported, which exhibits comparable performance to commercial expensive Nafion membrane in the application of HMF electrooxidation to FDCA. [Display omitted] • A non-fluorine side-chain cation exchange membrane is prepared for electrooxidation. • The interconnected ion channels endow the membrane with high ion transport rate. • The optimal membrane exhibits comparable performance to Nafion for HMF conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies on the protection of C/C composites in oxidizing environments have been carried out. Coating technology has proven to be highly effective in improving the oxidation resistance of C/C composites. Summaries and comparisons of antioxidation coating materials for C/C composites are needed for comprehensive understanding and further researches. In this paper, recent advances in promising single-phase materials as protective coatings for C/C composites were firstly reviewed, with attention to their characteristics and antioxidation mechanisms. Then, several common mixture systems, such as carbide mixtures, boride mixtures and MoSi 2 -based ultrahigh-temperature ceramics (UHTCs), were discussed. In addition, three kinds of nanostructured materials used for doping coatings were described in detail. Finally, some typical problems and future challenges in the development of these coating materials for C/C composites were highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical engineering of chalcogens' defects (either selenium or sulfur) on the surfaces of Nonprecious transition metal chalcogenides provides an effective route to enhance their electrocatalytic activity. Yet, the precise role of such defects during the OER is not fully understood, which in turn precludes an efficient optimization of their catalytic activity. Herein, CoNiSe 2 film, representing a multi-transition metal selenide model with selenium defects, is electro-deposited on a carbon cloth to investigate and optimize the intrinsic and dynamic behavior of selenium vacancies during the OER process. Interestingly, the defective CoNiSe 2 with the optimized amount of selenium vacancies exhibits an advanced OER performance, including low overpotential (252 mV at 10 mA cm−2) and high stability for 30 h. The ex-situ XPS and Raman spectroscopies also indicate that the optimized amount of selenium vacancies can facilitate the pre-oxidation of Co and Ni sites. The latter leads to a rapid adsorption of OH− ions and a further stabilization of Co/NiOOH, which in turn mediates the efficiency of OER. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that the introduction of a Se-vacancy on CoNiSe 2 surface enables to adjust the changes in Gibbs free energy between different OER steps and thereby, significantly reduce the overpotential. • Varying density of selenium vacancies was created on the surface of CoNiSe 2. • The optimized defective CoNiSe 2 shows a low overpotential and high stability. • The presence of selenium vacancies facilitates the pre-oxidation of metals sites. • DFT calculations support the reduction of the overpotential due to Se-vacancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study reports COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness (VE) in real-world settings. • COVID-19 VE for fully and partially vaccinated individuals. • COVID-19 VE for healthcare workers, the elderly, and adults. • The effectiveness of different COVID-19 vaccine brands. To estimate the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine effectiveness (VE) against concerned outcomes in real-world settings. Studies reporting COVID-19 VE from August 6, 2020 to October 6, 2021 were included. The summary VE (with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI)) against disease related to COVID-19 was estimated. The results were presented in forest plots. Predefined subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were also performed. A total of 51 records were included in this meta-analysis. In fully vaccinated populations, the VE against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, COVID-19-related hospitalization, admission to the intensive care unit, and death was 89.1% (95% CI 85.6–92.6%), 97.2% (95% CI 96.1–98.3%), 97.4% (95% CI 96.0–98.8%), and 99.0% (95% CI 98.5–99.6%), respectively. The VE against infection in the general population aged ≥16 years, the elderly, and healthcare workers was 86.1% (95% CI 77.8–94.4%), 83.8% (95% CI 77.1–90.6%), and 95.3% (95% CI 92.0–98.6%), respectively. For those fully vaccinated against infection, the observed effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was 91.2% and of the Moderna vaccine was 98.1%, while the effectiveness of the CoronaVac vaccine was found to be 65.7%. The COVID-19 vaccines are highly protective against SARS-CoV-2-related diseases in real-world settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the preparation of Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8+ δ (Bi2212) superconducting thin films by sol-gel method, the complexing agent and sintering conditions can significantly influence the quality and the performance of thin film. In this study, Bi2212 thin films were prepared on single crystal SrTiO 3 (001) substrate, and the phase purity, crystallinity, surface morphology and transport properties were studied particularly with different sintering temperature and time, complexing agent and its ratio to metal ions. Due to relatively low carbon content, tartaric acid (TA) as a complexing agent improved the film quality and transport properties compared with the traditional ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA). When the complex ratios of TA to metal ions was 1:1, Bi2212 thin films exhibited good epitaxial properties, a high Bi2212 phase purity and a low surface roughness of 12.74 nm. Simultaneously, under these preparation condition, Bi2212 superconducting thin film showed a higher T c, onset of 93.28 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A physical explosion model for high-pressure natural gas pipelines is established. • The shape of the physical explosion crater in the pipeline is an ellipsoid. • The deeper the burial depth is, the smaller the crater size is. • The crater size is linearly related to the pipe diameter. • The equation for the crater size is fitted. he physical explosion of high-pressure natural gas pipelines causes craters and shock waves, which pose a serious threat to the people and buildings in the surrounding area. This study utilized HyperMesh and LS-DYNA software to establish a physical explosion model for high-pressure natural gas pipelines. The physical explosion processes for pipe diameters of 813, 1016, 1219, and 1422 mm under six burial depths and three soil conditions were calculated. Based on the simulation results, the equations for the variation in crater size were fitted, and the curves of the relationships between crater size and influencing factors were fitted to analyze the coupling effect of multiple factors on the crater size variation. The results showed that the crater size was positively correlated with the pipe diameter. As the diameter of the pipe increased, the length, width, and depth of the crater increased by 64.2, 53.8, and 32.1 %, respectively. The larger the burial depth was, the smaller the crater length and width were. However, the crater depth first increased and then decreased as the burial depth increased. The crater depth was the highest at a burial depth of 3 m. These findings can provide a reference for the design and safety evaluation of high-pressure natural-gas pipelines in high-consequence areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• After 2005, the production space, living space, and ecological space (PLES) in Xinjiang began to undergo significant changes. • Land Desertification is the main reason for space conflict in Xinjiang. • Natural condition, socio-economic, and policy factors collectively influence the evolution of the pattern of PLES in Xinjiang. Xinjiang is located in the northwest of China, with a vast territory and abundant resources, which holds an important strategic position for China. However, the climate in the region is arid and the ecological environment is fragile. In recent years, with the growth of population and the improvement of economic development level, construction and agricultural land in Xinjiang have gradually expanded, and ecological land has been extensively occupied. The competition between land resources is becoming increasingly fierce, leading to some ecological and environmental problems in the region. In this context, understanding the spatiotemporal changes and driving factors of Xinjiang's production space, living space and ecological space (PLES) is of great practical significance for promoting sustainable development in the region, and can also provide reference for the research of PLES in other arid areas at home and abroad. At present, most of the research on PLES is focused on small-scale areas such as urban agglomerations, rural areas, and watersheds, or non arid areas with relatively superior natural conditions, with less research on large-scale arid areas. In this study, the transfer matrix, the center of gravity movement trajectory, Moran's I and the spatial conflict measurement model were used to illustrate the spatial–temporal evolution of PLES in Xinjiang, and the correlation coefficient was used to determine the main factors affecting the change of PLES. Results show that (1) Xinjiang is dominated by ecological space, which accounts for more than 90% of the total area of Xinjiang and has significant continuity. They are mainly distributed in Tarim, Turpan, and the northern Junggar Basin. The production space area accounts for about 5% of the total area of Xinjiang and is distributed in the vicinity of the Tianshan and Kunlun Mountains. Living space accounts for about 1% of Xinjiang's total area and is scattered around cities. (2) From 2000 to 2020, the change degree of PLES in Xinjiang in the last decade is higher than that in the first decade, most of which is the transformation from ecological space to production space. The three types of spaces influence and restrict each other in the development process. (3) Population, crop sown area, natural conditions, policy and the development level of agricultural science and technology are the main factors affecting the spatial distribution of production. Environmental factors such as altitude, soil erosion and temperature have a great influence on ecological space. Population, the output value of various industries and total retail sales of consumer goods are the main factors affecting residential space. The evolution of Xinjiang PLES is the result of multiple factors. (4) The medium spatial conflict dominates, mainly distributed in Tarim Basin and Junggar Basin. The weak and strong space conflicts are concentrated in the oases in the north of the Tianshan and Kunlun Mountains, and the number is small. From 2000 to 2020, the increasing degree of spatial conflicts in Xinjiang is due to land desertification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) and ozone (O 3) are two typical indicators of photochemical pollution, which are harmful to human body and environment. In this study, PAN and O 3 were continuously monitored during static management (SM) of the COVID-19 epidemic in Zhengzhou. Briefly, SM refers to control policies in that all except for essential business are closed; work at home; and no people going out and no gathering, etc. During the SM, the temperature suddenly dropped from 26 °C to 14 °C, which provided a good experimental condition for the study of source transformation, accumulation, and consumption of PAN in the atmosphere. The concentrations of PAN were 0.6, 0.8, and 0.5 ppbv in three periods: before, during, and after the SM. During the SM, the lifetime of PAN was increased due to low temperature, and the accumulation time of PAN was longer, resulting in the increase of PAN concentration in daytime faster than the other two periods. During SM, especially after the temperature drops, the average atmospheric lifetime of PAN was 23.8 h, which was higher than 17.6 h before SM and 13.8 h after SM. This indicated that low temperature was more conducive to the accumulation of PAN. The high potential PAN source (CBPF>0.8) mainly came from the northeast of Zhengzhou, and the wind speed range was between 2.5 and 3 m/s. The backward trajectory analysis showed that 83.3% of the air mass from the northeast and northwest had a greater impact on the PAN concentration in Zhengzhou. [Display omitted] • The concentrations of secondary pollutants PAN and O 3 increased during the COVID-19 control period. • PAN is more likely to accumulate at low temperatures. • At high temperatures, PAN is more likely to pyrolysis and release PA radicals. • Northeast and northwest directions are the main source directions of PAN long-distance transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epoxy asphalt binder offers a promising solution for road material due to its low environmental impact and potential to reduce carbon emissions. In this paper, hot-mix epoxy asphalt binder (HEAB) and warm-mix epoxy asphalt binder (WEAB) were prepared firstly. The curing conditions of the binders were determined through viscosity and tensile tests, and their low-temperature properties were evaluated through bend creep stiffness tests. Furthermore, hot-mix porous epoxy asphalt concrete (HPEC) was designed with target void ratios ranging from 16% to 24%. Control groups included warm-mix porous epoxy asphalt concrete (WPEC) and high-viscosity modified porous asphalt concrete (HPAC) with a 20% target void ratio. The road performance of these various porous asphalt concrete was evaluated through multiple tests, including wheel tracking, low-temperature beam bending, dynamic modulus, four-point bending fatigue, freeze-thaw splitting, and Cantabro loss tests. The results indicate that HEAB follows a two-stage curing method of "160 °C, 2 h + 60 °C, 4 d", while WEAB adopts a one-stage curing method of "120 °C, 5 h", both of which demonstrate favorable properties. Moreover, HEAB exhibits better low-temperature properties compared to WEAB. The study also found that increasing the void ratio can reduce the high-temperature performance, freeze-thaw resistance, hydrothermal resistance, and dynamic modulus of HPEC. The low-temperature performance of HPEC reaches an inflection point at a target void ratio of 20%. Under the same target void ratio, HPEC exhibits the best high-temperature performance, dynamic modulus, fatigue resistance, freeze-thaw resistance, and hydrothermal resistance, followed by WPEC and HPAC. However, the low-temperature performance of both the HPEC and WPEC is lower than that of the HPAC. Overall, the use of epoxy asphalt binder in the preparation of porous asphalt concretes shows great potential for enhancing road performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The α-Fe 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 composite with a heterostructure was prepared, which compensates for the insufficient surface area of conventional α-Fe 2 O 3. • Through the TEM observation of the lattice spacing, the error between the theory and the experimental results is only about 2%. • The oxidation mechanism of As(III) is deduced, and the removal of As 2 O 3 by α-Fe 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 can be understood as adsorption before catalysis. Arsenic has strong migration and enrichment in flue gas and can produce serious arsenic pollution, so it is urgent to control the arsenic emission in flue gas. In this study, α-Fe 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 composites with heterostructure were prepared by hybrid calcination, which was innovatively used to combine As 2 O 3 (g) adsorption experiment and microscopic computational analysis. The experimental results show that FC2 (α-Fe 2 O 3 :g-C 3 N 4 = 14%, Wt%) has a better As 2 O 3 (g) adsorption capacity within 400–500 °C. At 450 °C, FC2 has almost twice the adsorption capacity of As 2 O 3 (g) than α-Fe 2 O 3 with an adsorption capacity of 2870.93 mg/kg. When the temperature rises to 500 °C, the adsorption amount of FC2 to As 2 O 3 (g) reaches 3450.80 mg/kg, which can be attributed to the more active points than α-Fe 2 O 3. At the same time, with the increase of the adsorption time, the As(III) in the sample tends to be gradually oxidized to As(V). The results of density functional theory (DFT) show that in the heterostructure of α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 1)/g-C 3 N 4 (0 0 2), the electron transfers 0.614 e from g-C 3 N 4 to α-Fe 2 O 3 , which establishes the electron transmission channel, thus enhancing the adsorption capacity of As 2 O 3 (g). Finally, the oxidation mechanism of As(III) is deduced, and the removal of As 2 O 3 by α-Fe 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 can be understood as adsorption before catalysis. Firstly, As 2 O 3 (g) is adsorbed to Fe and O on the surface and generates chemical bonds, subsequently binding to the cleaved O 2. Part of As(III) is oxidized to As(V), and the other part of As is still As(III) although the As-O bond is broken but combines with O of O 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain inflammation develops with increased colitis. Pu-erh tea is considered a potential dietary intervention to improve colitis. However, it's unclear whether Pu-erh tea helps alleviate colitis-mediated brain dysfunction. Here, we found that colitis triggered brain dysfunction and increased the risk of depression. Pu-erh tea improved gut-brain barrier function (increased ZO-1 and Occludin) and restored short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as well as neurotransmitter release (γ-GABA, 5-HT, and dopamine), which stemmed from the production of butyric acid (BA). Pu-erh tea and BA promoted the production of SCFAs by reshaping the gut microbes (increased Lactobacillus , Akkermansia , Faecalibaculum), thereby downregulating gut inflammatory protein expression (PI3K/AKT/NF-κB). SCFAs, especially BA, intervened directly in the blood-brain barrier via the gut-brain axis to restore neurotransmitter release. Collectively, our results highlighted that increasing BA through Pu-erh tea consumption may be a key mechanism for improving colitis-mediated brain dysfunction by lowering gut inflammation and balancing gut microbe-gut-brain axis homeostasis. These results provide a promising step that might encourage further investigations of Pu-erh tea as a protective agent for brain function in colitis patients. [Display omitted] • Colitis triggered brain dysfunction and increased the risk of depression. • Pu-erh tea promoted the production of SCFAs, especially butyric acid (BA). • BA intervened in the blood-brain barrier to restore neurotransmitter release. • Pu-erh tea improved gut-brain function by increasing BA via the gut-brain axis. • Pu-erh tea may act as a protective agent for brain function in colitis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • UL and WES in YREB present an increasing trend from 2000 to 2018. • CCD exhibits a pattern of high in the east and low in the west. • Coupling relationship at most counties became more coordinated over time. • Land use intensity, nighttime light intensity and NDVI are determinants of the CCD. • Combining GeoDetector and GWR enables better analysis of driving mechanisms. "Taking the county as an important carrier to promote urbanization" has been identified as China's most significant strategic planning for urban development. Exploring the level of coordination among both water-related ecosystem services (WES) and urbanization and analyzing their social and ecological drivers at the county-level can benefit in tackling various environmental challenges that arise as a result of the urbanization. This research examined the spatial and temporal variation of WES (i.e., water provision, soil conservation, and water purification services) in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) from 2000 to 2018 through the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) model, and a quantitative assessment of urbanization level in terms of population, economy, and urban area increase. Then, coupling coordination degree (CCD) model was then used to assess the extent of coordinated growth of WES and urbanization. Finally, the GeoDetector model and the regionally weighted regression model were used to investigate the influence of multiple factors on the CCD The findings indicate that: 1) Each county unit in the YREB had a significantly higher level of urbanization from 2000 to 2018, with hotspots located primarily in the Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and in the vicinity of Wuhan and Chengdu. 2) The WES in the YREB varied considerably between years, but exhibited an upward tendency. 3) The CCD of WES and urbanization in the eastern portion of the YREB is higher than that in the western portion. The level of CCD was increasing but overall low. 4) Land use intensity, nighttime light intensity, and NDVI were the primary determinants of the CCD between WES and urbanization, with considerable heterogeneity in the driving forces between locations. To improve the coordination level between WES and urbanization, differentiated urbanization development schemes and ecological protection measures were proposed based on the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twins and 9R phase (a structure containing a high density of stacking faults) have played important roles in simultaneously improving strength and strain hardening capacity of low-to-medium stacking fault energy (SFE, smaller than 50 mJ/m2) metallic materials. Due to the high SFE (166 mJ/m2) in pure face-centered-cubic Al and its insensitivity to most soluble alloying elements, concurrent introduction of deformation twins and 9R phase into an originally twin-free Al alloy is intuitively impossible. Here, we propose a strategy to simultaneously produce deformation twins and 9R structure in an Al-Mg alloy by nanostructuring grain sizes and alloying with Y. We demonstrate that plastic deformation of the nanograined Y-doped Al-Mg alloy can concurrently drive the dissociation of incoherent twin boundaries and direct emission of grain boundary Shockley partial dislocations, enabling the development of two different 9R structures in the nanograined Al-Mg-Y alloy. Our strategy combining grain size nanostructuring and SFE tuning presents a new microstructure design in strengthening bulk Al alloys by planar defects of deformation twins and 9R structure and/or stacking faults. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of perovskite film seriously affects the performance of organic-inorganic hybrid halide perovskite solar cells. In this paper, we demonstrate an anti-solvent treatment by controlling the perovskite recrystallize to enhance the quality of perovskite film and photophysical properties, including crystallinity, high coverage and high absorption. The fabricated carbon-based perovskite solar cells show PCE improvement from 6.82% to 10.81% with less hysteresis, and remained 90% of the original value after 93 days in the air environment. Our work provides a way to prepare simple and stable perovskite devices with high stability and low cost. • The high-stability perovskite solar cells (PSCs) based on carbon electrode was fabricated under humidity air atmosphere. • The crystallization kinetics of perovskite was optimized by anti-solvent CB washing and high-quality films were prepared. • We investigated the effect of different dosage of CB the on PSCs. • The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of champion PSC was 10.81% with optimum dosage CB (100 μ L). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• AAA and normal samples have different immune infiltration statuses. • FOS, IL-6 and IL2RB are identified as AAA immune-related hub genes. • IL2RB is an immune-related hub gene and a potential hub gene with significant diagnostic value in AAA. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is potentially life threatening and characterized by immune-inflammatory cell infiltration and extracellular matrix degradation. Currently, pharmacotherapy mainly aims to control risk factors without reversion of the dilated aorta. This study analyzed the immune-inflammatory response and identified the immune-related hub genes of AAA. Gene Expression Omnibus datasets (GSE57691, GSE47472 and GSE7084) were downloaded. After identification of GSE57691 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), weighted gene co-expression network analysis of the DEGs was performed. Through enrichment analysis of each module and screening in Immunology Database and Analysis Portal, immune-related hub genes were identified via protein–protein interaction (PPI) network construction and lasso regression. CIBERSORT was utilized to analyze AAA immune infiltration. The correlations between the immune-related hub genes and infiltrating immune cells were investigated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine immune-related hub gene cutoff values, which were validated in GSE47472 and GSE7084. In GSE57691, 1,018 DEGs were identified. Five modules were identified in the co-expression network. The blue and green modules were found to be related to immune-inflammatory responses, and 61 immune-related genes were identified. PPI and lasso regression analyses identified FOS, IL-6 and IL2RB as AAA immune-related hub genes. CIBERSORT analysis indicated significantly increased infiltration of naive B cells, memory activated CD4 T cells, follicular helper T cells, monocytes and M1 macrophages and significantly decreased infiltration of M2 macrophages in AAA compared with normal samples. IL2RB was more strongly associated with immune infiltration in AAA than were FOS and IL6. The IL2RB area under the ROC curve (AUC) value was > 0.9 in both the training and validation set, demonstrating its strong, stable diagnostic value in AAA. AAA and normal samples had different immune infiltration statuses. IL2RB was identified as an immune-related hub gene and a potential hub gene with significant diagnostic value in AAA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve simultaneous environment protecting, high-efficiency rubber antioxidant is still an enormous and long-term challenge in green rubber industry. Hence, a novel biomass antioxidant (denoted as silica-s-TP) was obtained by silica supported with green tea polyphenols exhibited prominent anti-aging functionality. Silica-s-TP hybrid particles were uniformly dispersed in rubber matrix with remarkable interfacial interaction, and the high-efficiency free radical capturing activity was stem from the construction of polyphenol structure on silica surface. Therefore, silica-s-TP brought to simultaneously enhance the performance of anti-aging property of SBR composites and surpass the achievements of the commercial antioxidants. Interesting, the biomass antioxidant silica-s-TP exhibited remarkable free radical-scavenging activities and stability in SBR matrix than the TP directly added in SBR matrix, due to the chemical anchor TP on silica surface. Such clay surface treatment technology with natural antioxidant may also bring to a new path for the preparation of green and eco-friendly functionalization rubber additives. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Morphology-dependent behavior of Cu 2 O on different surfactants was investigated. • Cu 2 O yolk-shell nanospheres was formed through the self-assembly process. • The formation mechanism of Cu 2 O yolk-shell nanospheres was further studied. • The obtained Cu 2 O exhibited excellent glucose sensing performance. Herein, the Cu 2 O yolk-shell nanospheres, nanocubes and microcubes were successfully prepared by a simple seed-medium process. The formation of the Cu 2 O yolk-shell nanospheres can be attributed to the self-assembly process caused by the introduction of the seed medium. The formation mechanism of our obtained Cu 2 O yolk-shell nanospheres and the dependence of Cu 2 O morphology on different surfactants have been studied. The obtained samples were applied in the field of non-enzymatic glucose detection. The electrochemical response characteristics of the modified electrodes toward glucose were investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA). The electrode modified with C-Cu 2 O (obtained by using CTAB as surfactant) shared the highest sensitivity of 3123 μAmM−1 cm-2, whereas, the electrode modified with S-Cu 2 O (obtained by using SDBS as surfactant) exhibited the lowest LOD of 0.87 μM and the widest linear range of 0.05–10.65 mM. All obtained sensors showed fast response to the addition of glucose. The obtained electrodes showed better responses to glucose than other coexisting interferences, indicating that the obtained electrodes had the acceptable selectivity to glucose. In addition, the stability for 5 consecutive weeks had also been studied and exhibited satisfactory results. The obtained electrode was also used to detect the glucose content in real serum. The acceptable selectivity, stability together with the excellent sensing ability in real serum make the obtained electrodes a potential for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]