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This study developed a prediction method to determine the distribution of phthalate esters (PAEs) in indoor dust. A gradient boosting decision tree model (GBRT) was trained by using 267 samples in Shanghai, including PAEs concentrations in indoor dust and data obtained from continuous monitoring, as well as the survey of indoor environment. Environmental exposure, residents' lifestyle, and building characteristics data were collected from 8 cities in China. Based on this, the well-trained GBRT model accurately predicted PAEs concentrations, with goodness of fit (R 2 ) > 0.94, mean absolute error (MAE) approaching 0, and mean squared error (MSE) approaching 0. This study identified key relationships between input parameters and PAEs concentrations. The average increment of PAEs concentration was greater than 50 % when using more than 2 electronic devices in bedroom. Diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP) concentration increased by approximately 200 % when cleaning frequency was less than once every fortnight. Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) concentration increased by over 43 % when dampness-related exposure indicators exceeding 3, and by up to 74 % with extensive usage of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) floorings. Furthermore, the study found higher PAEs concentrations in southern China compared to northern cities. • Apply multidisciplinary method to study the factors affecting the differences in indoor phthalate distribution. • Set up a gradient boosted regression trees model to predict the concentration of phthalate and evaluate the result. • Predict and analyze the distribution of phthalate in eight typical cities in China, providing a data support for impacting assessment of human health. • Provide a theoretical support and scientific method for predicting concentration of phthalate in dust in children's bedroom, with a high popularization value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In 2013–2014, we carried out a case-control study in Shanghai, China and collected dust samples from 453 children's beddings (pillow and mattress). Here we investigated associations of bed dust mites (Der p 1 and Der f 1) with childhood health outcomes. These dust mites were analyzed by enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA). The child's health outcomes were reported by parents. Der f 1 concentration among cases were significantly higher than controls for current rhinitis and eczema, but Der p 1 concentration among cases were significantly lower than controls for lifetime-ever croup and asthma. In the multivariate logistic regression analyses, Der p 1 (increment: 0.98 μg/g) and Der f 1 (0.28 μg/g) were associated with the increased odds of dry cough (Der p 1: adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.48, 1.01–2.17, p -value: 0.047; Der f 1: 1.52, 1.09–2.12, 0.013) and rhinitis (Der p 1: 1.44, 1.05–1.97, 0.025; Der f 1: 1.25, 0.98–1.60, 0.078). Der f 1 (increment: 0.28 μg/g) had significant associations with the decreased odd of lifetime-ever asthma (OR, 95%CI: 0.75, 0.58–0.97). Significantly higher proportions of families with habits for frequently bed-cleaning were found among cases than among controls according to the most studied illnesses. Our results indicate that exposure to bed dust Der p 1 and Der f 1 could be risk factors for childhood allergic symptoms. Avoidance behaviors with respect to household dust mites among families with case children perhaps mask the real associations of these dust mites with childhood health outcomes in the retrospective case-control study. Highlights • We analyzed two dust mites (Der p 1 and Der f 1) in beddings for 453 Shanghai Children. • Higher levels of Der p 1 and Der f 1 associated with increased odds of current dry cough and rhinitis. • Der f 1 could have stronger associations with allergic symptoms in childhood than Der p 1. • Family avoidance behaviors for bed dust mites could mask the studied associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urbanization and industrialization in China is accompanied by bad air quality, and the prevalence of asthma in Chinese children has been increasing in recent years. To investigate the associations between ambient PM 2.5 levels and asthmatic and allergic diseases or symptoms in preschool children in China, we assigned PM 2.5 exposure data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) project to 205 kindergartens at a spatial resolution of 0.1° × 0.1° in six cities in China (Shanghai, Nanjing, Chongqing, Changsha, Urumqi, and Taiyuan). A hierarchical multiple logistical regression model was applied to analyze the associations between kindergarten-level PM 2.5 exposure and individual-level outcomes of asthmatic and allergic symptoms. The individual-level variables, including gender, age, family history of asthma and allergic diseases, breastfeeding, parental smoking, indoor dampness, interior decoration pollution, household annual income, and city-level variable-annual temperature were adjusted. A total of 30,759 children (average age 4.6 years, 51.7% boys) were enrolled in this study. Apart from family history, indoor dampness, and decoration as predominant risk factors, we found that an increase of 10 μg/m 3 of the annual PM 2.5 was positively associated with the prevalence of allergic rhinitis by an odds ratio (OR) of 1.20 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11, 1.29) and diagnosed asthma by OR of 1.10 (95% CI 1.03, 1.18). Those who lived in non-urban (vs. urban) areas were exposed to more severe indoor air pollution arising from biomass combustion and had significantly higher ORs between PM 2.5 and allergic rhinitis and current rhinitis. Our study suggested that long-term exposure to PM 2.5 might increase the risks of asthmatic and allergic diseases or symptoms in preschool children in China. Compared to those living in urban areas, children living in suburban or rural areas had a higher risk of PM 2.5 exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During March 2013–December 2014, we conducted a field study in Shanghai, China. A total of 409 children's bedrooms had valid data for formaldehyde which was continuously measured for 24 h. The daily 24 h-averaged and night 6 h-averaged (00:00–06:00) concentrations were 21.5 μg/m 3 and 22.2 μg/m 3 , respectively. Bedrooms with mechanical ventilation had lower formaldehyde concentrations than those with natural ventilation. In the multiple logistic regression analyses, compared to children in the first quartile of 24 h-averaged formaldehyde, children in fourth quartile had significantly lower odds of lifetime-ever food allergy (adjusted odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.39, 0.16–0.97) and current rhinitis (0.39, 0.18–0.86), but children in the third quartile had significantly higher odd of current common cold (≥3 times) (2.42, 1.02–5.77). Among autumn-inspected children, formaldehyde exposure had significant associations with current common cold (≥3 times) (adjusted OR, 95%CI for 24 h-averaged: 4.88, 1.18–20.21 in increment of 11.7 μg/m 3 ; for 6 h-averaged: 4.41, 1.07–18.19 in increment of 15.7 μg/m 3 ). Significantly more families with case children used household mechanical ventilation and air cleaner than families with control children. Our results indicate that household formaldehyde exposure may increase the risk of childhood common cold. Since it is impossible that formaldehyde exposure in higher concentrations could decrease the risk of current rhinitis and other illnesses, we infer that those “negative” associations could be confounded by the potential behaviour changes for avoidance of household formaldehyde exposure among families with case children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have illustrated the effects of residential environmental conditions on prevalence of allergic disease for adults. A cross-sectional study with 17898 valid samples from parents of preschool children was carried out during 2010-2011 in Shanghai, China. The allergic symptoms of these participants were surveyed; meanwhile the building characteristics, environmental exposures and lifestyle behaviors were all reported by the questionnaires. Pearson’s Chi-square (χ2), Gamma correlation analysis and logistic regression analysis were applied to investigate associations between building characteristics, lifestyle and their allergic symptoms. The results displayed that interior renovation or adding new furniture, home dampness-related indicators and the residential distance within 200 meters of the traffic trunk or highway, using incense and so on were the significant risk factors for allergic symptoms (p<0.05, AOR>1), while exposing the bedding to sunshine is a protective factor, so we can draw that controlling indoor air pollution and the residential dampness-related indicators, as well as changing the bad habits are the effective measures to prevent allergic symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalate have been reported to be associated with various adverse health effects in many countries or regions. In this paper, we assessed the urine levels of phthalate metabolites (PMs) in children and investigated their associations with various ventilation habits. During March 2013 to December 2014, we conducted an on-site inspection in 454 residences of 5-10 year-old children in Shanghai, China. The first morning urine samples of these children were took by cryogenic vials. We collected information with respect to ventilation habits by questionnaire. We analyzed ten PMs [Mono-methyl phthalate (MMP), Mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP), Mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), Mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), Mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP), Mono-cyclohexyl phthalate (MCHP), Mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), Mono-2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl phthalate (MECPP), Mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl phthalate (MEHHP), Mono-2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl (MEOHP)] by High performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Mann-Whitney U test was applied to compare concentrations of urinary PMs among children with different ventilation habits. A total of 434 children had valid urine samples. The detection rates of PMs were >90% except for MBzP (51.2%) and MCHP (9.9%). The overall mean concentrations (standard deviation) of these metabolites were as follows: MnBP, 126.4 (205.9) μg/L; MiBP, 83.1 (119.2) μg/L; MECPP, 61.6 (111.1) μg/L; MEHHP, 42.9 (92.6) μg/L; MEP, 25.3 (51.5) μg/L; MEOHP, 23.9 (45.1) μg/L; MMP, 16.8 (21.5) μg/L; MEHP, 7.6 (19.0) μg/L; MBzP, 1.2 (4.3) μg/L; MCHP, 0.1 (0.2) μg/L. In general, averaged concentrations of PMs among children who opened the windows or doors were higher than among those who closed. Our results indicate that individual differences in PMs are obvious among Shanghai children. Natural ventilation without any mechanical ventilation or air purification is likely increase phthalate exposure in children. To reduce indoor phthalate concentrations, we suggested using mechanical ventilation or ‘natural ventilation and air cleaner’ in home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many independent reports have indicated that cleanroom supply airflow rates are often over-designed to meet the air cleanliness classes, over-supply can cause significant energy waste. It is of great significance to find a more reliable model which can be used to calculate the required air change rate based on a cleanliness class. This paper analyzes 4 well-recognized international particle concentration models for cleanrooms based on uniform distribution of particles, mass airflow balance and indoor particle conservation. This study evaluates the models in perspectives of their assumptions, considered parameters, and application limitations. An improved model is further proposed with examples. The research outcomes can provide a good theoretical support for energy-efficient cleanroom study and design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have estimated the effects of dampness-related exposures and its interaction effects with poor household ventilation on common colds of preschool children. During April 2011–April 2012, we conducted a cross-sectional survey on home environment and childhood health and collected 13,335 parents-reported questionnaires of 4–6 year-old children in Shanghai, China. In this paper, we investigated associations between the incidence and duration of common colds among these children during the past 12 months before the survey and frequency of opening windows, as well as household dampness-related exposures (indicated by six dampness indicators). Significantly higher incidence (≥3 times) and longer duration (≥2 weeks) of common cold were found among children with than without these dampness exposures (p-value <0.01 for mold spots and p-value <0.001 for all other indicators). The number of dampness-related indicators had a positive and strong dose-response relationship with common colds (p-trend <0.01). Low frequency of ventilation was also a risk factor for children common colds. After adjusted for the potential confounders in the multiple logistic regression analyses, all dampness-related indicators were significantly associated with the increased odds of common colds and the highest odds ratios was 1.21 (95% CI: 1.16–1.27). We also found that dampness-related exposures and household ventilation habits (p-value for interaction <0.001) had a strong interaction effect on the incidence and duration of common cold. The stratified analysis of ventilation condition displays that the influence of dampness-related exposures has been modified by ventilation. Therefore, good household ventilation habits may have an effect of modification for dampness-related exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During 2011–2012, we conducted a cross-sectional study and collected 13,335 parent-reported questionnaires for 4-6 year-old children in Shanghai, China. In this study, we investigated associations of LC-HTRH (Living Close to High Traffic Roads or Highways within 200 m of the residence) with childhood health outcomes. In the multiple logistic regression analyses, LC-HTRH was significantly associated with lifetime-ever doctor-diagnosed asthma (adjusted OR, 95% CI: 1.40, 1.16–1.70). LC-HTRH and bedroom floor level had significant interaction effects on lifetime-ever asthma attack and eczema and past-year eczema. In the subanalyses, LC-HTRH was significantly associated with lifetime-ever asthma (1.52, 1.11–2.09) and asthma attack (1.69, 1.11–2.56) among children who lived on the 4th–6th floors. LC-HTRH was significantly associated with the increased odds of lifetime-ever asthma and past-year rhinitis in summer, autumn, and winter among children whose bedroom windows were opened often. Furthermore, more significant associations between LC-HTRH and the studied outcomes were found among children who both lived in low floor levels and came from families who often opened bedroom windows during night than others. Except for lifetime-ever asthma, no significant associations were found between LC-HTRH and all studied outcomes among children from families who did not often open bedroom windows during night in the different floor levels. This study indicates that LC-HTRH might be associated with part of childhood health outcomes. When ambient air is polluted, increasing bedroom ventilation might lead household air quality at low-medium levels worse, and thus increase odds of some childhood allergic and respiratory problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From March 2013 to December 2014, we collected air samples of airborne culturable fungi from 454 residences with young children (mean age: 6.9 years-old) in Shanghai, China. We also measured indoor air temperature and relative humidity, and compiled information regarding dwelling characteristics, lifestyle habits, and dampness-related indicators. Mean concentrations (mean ± SD) of culturable fungi in the child's bedrooms ( n = 445) and in the living rooms ( n = 436) were 310 ± 313 (range: 6–3184) cfu/m 3 and 300 ± 288 (range: 19–3044) cfu/m 3 , respectively. The concentrations of airborne fungi were higher in spring and winter than in other seasons, but were only slightly correlated with indoor air temperature and relative humidity in any season. Higher levels of airborne culturable fungi in the child's bedroom were significantly associated with location in a rural area, constructed before 2000, ground/top floor of the residential building, and building area <10 m 2 . Among those residences inspected in winter, rooms with poor ventilation and residences with spiders and cockroaches, damp spots and moldy spots on the wall surface were associated with higher concentrations of indoor airborne culturable fungi. We found that the household level of airborne fungi was acceptable in most of Shanghai's current residences. The possibility of indoor airborne culturable fungi during cold spring and winter requires more attention than in other seasons. Preventing dampness-related damage, improving indoor ventilation, and maintaining a dwelling free of spiders and cockroaches may decrease indoor level of airborne culturable fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With on-site measurements, this paper analyzed the current status of airborne fungi in the child's bedroom of the residences in Shanghai and its associations with the characteristics of residences. The average concentration of airborne fungi in the 446 children's bedrooms was 310 CFU/m 3 (range: 6 to 3184 CFU/m 3 ). Only one bedroom had higher concentration of airborne fungi than the standard concentration of 2500 CFU/m 3 with 3180 CFU/m 3 . Compared to the residences with building areas ≤ 75 m 2 , those residences > 100 m 2 had significant higher average concentrations (mean ± standard deviation: 270 ± 183 vs. 354 ± 409). The children's bedrooms at the ground floor or the attic floor of the residential building had higher average concentration of airborne fungi than others. The results indicate that building characteristics of residences may be associated with the concentrations of airborne fungi in the child's bedroom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From March 2013 to December 2014, we conducted a case-control study and inspected 454 residences with asthmatic or non-asthmatic children from six districts in Shanghai. Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) were passively measured 24 hours in the child's bedroom. We took the average concentration of CO 2 during 00:00 to 06:00 as an indicator for the status of natural ventilation in the child's bedroom during night and investigated its association with childhood asthma. A total of 45.6% ( n = 203) residences had CO 2 average concentrations higher than 1000 ppm . The mean CO 2 concentration ± standard deviation was 1123 ± 741 ppm (range: 367 to 4595 ppm ). CO 2 average concentrations in the residences measured in autumn and in summer were significantly lower than measured in winter. No significant differences were found among CO 2 average concentrations among Case group and Control group in total and in different measured seasons. More deeply analyses were warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, prevalence of eczema has been increasing among preschool children in China. It's urgent to find associated factors. On basis of 13,335 questionnaires from parents or guardians for 4-6 year-old children (response rate 85.3%) in a cross-sectional study from April 2011 to April 2012 in Shanghai, the associations between home dampness related indicators and the prevalence of childhood eczema was investigated. There were 7.8%, 15.3%, 42.1%, 55.7%, and 30.7% of the surveyed residences who had visible mold spots, visible damp stains, damp clothing and/or bedding, water damage, condensation on window in winter, and moldy odor (six home dampness-related indicators), respectively. The prevalence of eczema (ever) and eczema (in the past 12 months) was 22.9% and 13.2%, respectively. These home dampness indicators had significant and strong associations with the increased risk of childhood eczema. With regard to the same indicators, the increased risk of eczema in girls was higher than in boys. Total numbers of home dampness-related indicators had notable dose-response relationships with the prevalence of childhood eczema. In conclusion, home dampness-related exposures are strong risk factors for childhood eczema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 15,266 questionnaires from 1 to 8 year-old children was used to investigate the prevalences of home dampness-related indicators and their associations with the respondent's residential characteristics and lifestyle behaviors in Shanghai, China. Most of the questionnaires were filled out by one of the child's parents (69.0% by mother and 24.9% by father). The prevalence of visible mold (VMS) was 7.9%, visible damp stains (VDS) 15.2%, windows pane condensation (WPC) 54.9%, water damage (WD) 11.9%, damp clothing and/or bedding (DCB) 42.0%, and moldy odor (MO) 11.9%, respectively. Questionnaires submitted by the child's mother noted significantly more dampness-related indicators than those submitted by the father and other respondents. Residences on the ground floor or top floor were strongly and positively associated with VMS and VDS in comparison with residences on the other floors of the dwelling building. Keeping fish in the current residence also had significant and positive associations with VDS, WPC, and WD. Having exhaust fan in the bathroom and/or opening the windows of the child’ bedroom, and frequently cleaning rooms was strongly associated with reduced dampness-related indicators in the child’ bedroom. Most of these associations among families without asthmatic children were similar to among the whole samples. Therefore, we concluded that studies regarding to home dampness-related evaluation by questionnaire should carefully considered report bias. Living on the ground floor or top floor and fish-keeping are risk factors for home dampness-related exposures. Improving home ventilation and increasing frequency of home cleaning could effectively reduce these exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A material library of TiO2/CeO2/Bi2O3,which consists of 66 samples, is designed. [•] Ball milling and sintering are used to obtain TiO2/CeO2/Bi2O3 composite material. [•] The photocatalytic efficiencies of the samples are evaluated upon visible light. [•] The best sample, which the ratio of TiO2/CeO2/Bi2O3 is 2/5/3, is screened out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, the CdS/ZnO nanocomposite film with enhanced photoelectric response to UV or white lights at low bias was demonstrated. The pure ZnO film was firstly fabricated by the technology of screen printing, and the CdS/ZnO film was prepared by the subsequent successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction process. XRD, UV–vis DRS, FE-SEM and EDX analysis confirmed the successful growth of CdS on the surface of ZnO nanoparticles. The photoelectric responses of ZnO and CdS/ZnO were tested under different illumination and by application of a series low bias in the gas phase. The CdS/ZnO nanocomposite film exhibited a tremendous enhancement on the photocurrent amplitude by application of a 0.01V bias, which gave 13.3 and 153 times higher than that of the pure ZnO film under UV and white light irradiation, respectively. The mechanism for the enhanced response is attributed to the special interface between CdS and ZnO, which can efficiently suppress the recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs and in turn resulting in a large increase of the photocurrent in the external circuit. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dampness-related exposures have been widely discovered in household, which are associated with childhood health. This study employed the Back-Propagation (BP) neural network to develop prediction models of overall dampness evaluation based on the on-site dampness inspection in 454 families. The trained models were then used to predict the overall dampness exposure in 15,266 families with five parent-reported dampness-related indicators. Two indices, including the overall-dampness- exposure-based (ODEB) score and combination-of parent-reported- based (CPRB) score, were introduced to reflect the household dampness exposure in Shanghai, and were used to build the relationship with different childhood respiratory diseases and allergies. The results indicated that the trained model of BP neural network had a reasonable accuracy with the coefficient of determination R2 greater than 0.5, and the standard deviation ratios were approaching 1.0. Both the ODEB score predicted by trained model and CPRB score were developed based on parent reported dampness indicators in the cross-sectional survey, and were significantly associated with childhood respiratory diseases after adjusting the confounders (AOR >1.3, p < 0.01, SDS factor >0). Exposure-response relationships were also found between the dampness exposure indices and health outcomes. A continuous dampness evaluation index with a reasonable accuracy was proposed based on BP neural network prediction of on-site dampness scoring, which was consistent with the CPRB score, showing an exposure-response relationship with childhood diseases. These findings provide us an approach to predict the household dampness and its related adverse health outcomes. • Dampness exposures are common in residential buildings in China. • Home dampness-related exposure is a risk for childhood allergies and respiratory diseases. • The parent-reported dampness can be linked to the inspector-observed dampness. • There are exposure-response relationships between dampness indicators and children health. • Two developed dampness indices can predict the dampness-related health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Shanghai International Gymnastics Stadium is the selected object for site-measurement. The site-measurements have been carried out during summer, winter, and the transitional seasons. Their indoor thermal environments were controlled by continuous air-conditioning, intermittent air-conditioning and natural ventilation, respectively. The site-measurement includes outdoor environment (the weather conditions and peripheral hallway), indoor air temperature distribution (the occupant zone temperature, radial temperature near upper openings and the vertical temperature distributions, etc.), and the heat balance of air-conditioning system, etc. It is found that temperature stratification in winter with air-conditioning is most obvious. The maximum difference of vertical temperature is 15°C in winter. The second largest one is 12°C in summer, and less than 2°C in the transitional season. The results of measurements indicate that it is different in the characteristics on energy saving of upper openings during the different seasons. With heat balance measurements, it is discovered that the roof load and ventilated and infiltrated load account for larger percentages in terms of cooling and heating load. In this paper, many discussions on the results of site measurements show some characteristics and regulations of indoor thermal environment in large space building. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Dust mites (Der f 1 and Der p 1) in 453 children's beddings were analyzed by ELISA. • Bed Der p 1, but not Der f 1, had a dose-response relationship with household dampness. • Often using air conditioner had significant associations with bed Der f 1 and Der p 1. • Frequently cleaning the bedclothes may effectively reduce bed Der f 1, but not Der p 1. During 2013–2014, we collected bed dust samples from 453 children's bedclothes in Shanghai, China, and analyzed two mite types (Der p 1 and Der f 1) in these dusts, using the enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA). In this study, we explored associations between dust mite concentrations and different family lifestyle aspects and dwelling characteristics. Der p 1 concentration was positively dose-related with cumulative numbers of dampness-related indicators in bedrooms. Use of household air conditioners often had significant associations with increased likelihood of above median concentrations of both Der f 1 (AOR, 95 % CI: 3.71, 2.07–6.63) and Der p 1 (1.93, 1.03–3.61). Changing bed sheets with a frequency of less than once per week was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of higher concentration of Der f 1 (2.42, 1.23–4.77). No significant dust mite concentration differences were found between families with different habits in relation to exposing bedclothes to sunshine, using household humidifiers, or pet-keeping. Our results indicate that Der p 1 in bedding dust was associated with home dampness-related indicators, such that controlling home dampness could effectively reduce Der p 1 numbers. Bedclothes treatments alone were insufficient to avoid the presence of Der p 1 and Der f 1 in bedding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we first report the PTB7-Th:PC 70 BM:PC 60 BM TPSCs whose active layer is capable of forming the self-assembled nano-ridged (SANR) structures, and the SANR-active layer coupled with the textured-ZnO is able to form the double ridge superimposed system with broad spectrum light trapping characteristic, offering a promising way for the efficiency enhancement of the devices. • Self-assembled nano-ridged (SANR) structures was observed in TPSCs. • SANR can significantly enhances the light absorption of the active layer. • SANR coupled with textured-ZnO is able to form double ridge superimposed system (DRSS). • DRSS shows the characteristics of broad spectrum light trapping. • TPSCs with DRSS gives a optimal PCE of 10.68%. Ternary blend polymer solar cells (TPSCs) comprising one donor and two fullerene acceptors is efficient method for improving the power conversion efficiency (PCE). In this paper, the PTB7-Th-based TPSCs which is incorporating PC 70 BM and PC 60 BM as mixed acceptors are fabricated and investigated. Impressively, the remarkable self-assembled nano-ridged (SANR) structures are discovered in the active layer with the weight ratio of 50% PC 60 BM in fullerenes. Thanks to the enlarged interface area, enhanced light absorption and balanced carrier transport, the PTB7-Th:PC 70 BM:PC 60 BM TPSCs with the SANR active layer gives an optimal PCE of 9.68%. In addition, it is worth emphasizing that by combining the textured-ZnO with the SANR active layer, a double ridge superimposed system (DRSS) with broad spectrum light trapping characteristic is constructed, which can further enhance the light absorption of the devices. Finally, benefiting from the further increase in short circuit current density (J sc), the PTB7-Th:PC 70 BM:PC 60 BM TPSCs with the DRSS gives an optimal PCE of 10.68%. This work provides a feasible ternary strategy to increase the devices performances and is proved be a simple and efficient strategy for fabricating PTB7-Th:PC 70 BM:PC 60 BM TPSCs with SANR active layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Color-tunable emission from semiconductor nanostructures holds promising applications in developing multi-color/color-tunable nano-devices. Herein, we reported the growth of In-doped CdS nanowires with various dopant concentrations via a thermal evaporation method. Optical measurement revealed the photoluminescence of these doped nanowires consists of a narrow bandedge emission and a broad trap-state emission, and the intensity ratio between them is tunable depending on excitation laser intensities and trap-state concentrations. On the basis of this variable intensity ratio, a tunable photoluminescent color from red to green was demonstrated. Our work indicates that trap-state emission from doped nanostructures might be useful for color-tunable emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The photocurrent of NiO/TiO2 porous films in methanol is much higher than usual. [•] A quantitative formula confirms the synergistic effect between the p–n junction and methanol. [•] A new insight into gas molecule photooxidation on the coupling catalyst is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report the amorphous Ge NPs film which is fabricated at room-temperature by PECVD method. The uniform, compact and smooth film is formed by orderly packing of the Ge NPs in the longitudinal direction, resulting in the formation of columnar structures in the Ge NPs film. The electrical, optical properties and energy levels of the Ge NPs film meet the requirements of the OSCs for ETL, and the PTB7:PC 70 BM OSCs with the Ge NPs ETL shows the PCE of 7.38%. [Display omitted] • The amorphous Ge NPs film is fabricated by using the PECVD method at room temperature. • The compact and orderly packing of the NPs in the longitudinal direction leads to the formation of columnar structures in the Ge NPs film. • The electrical, optical properties and energy levels of the Ge NPs film meet the requirements of the OSCs for ETL. • The PTB7:PC 70 BM OSCs with the Ge NPs ETL shows the PCE of 7.38%. The performances of the organic solar cells (OSCs) largely depends on the selection and preparation of the electron transport layer (ETL). In this paper, the uniform and compact Ge nanoparticles (NPs) film was fabricated by using the plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) method at room temperature. The Ge NPs film is formed by close packing of amorphous Ge particles with an average diameter of 6.05 nm, and the film shows a fairly smooth surface with a root-mean-square (RMS) roughness of 0.6419 nm. The results shows that Ge NPs film exhibits n-type characteristics, and the longitudinal conductivity of the film is 1.90 × 10−5 S/cm, which is better than that of the ZnO NPs film. The excellent longitudinal charge transport characteristics is attributed to the existence of the columnar structures in the Ge NPs. In addition, the Ge NPs film shows a visible light transmittance comparable to that of the ZnO NPs film. More importantly, the energy levels of the Ge NPs film meets the requirements of the PTB7:PC 70 BM OSCs for the ETL, and the devices with the Ge NPs ETL shows the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.38%. The characteristic of room temperature preparation make the Ge NPs ETL may become a reliable choice for the flexible devices in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Few studies can be found on phthalate exposure in relation to childhood asthma and allergic symptoms from Mainland China, where a persistent increase in prevalence of childhood asthma and allergic disease has been observed. Objectives This study aimed to assess the exposure levels to phthalates and its relationship with asthmatic and allergic symptoms among children in Shanghai, which has the highest prevalence of childhood asthma in Mainland China. Methods A follow-up study (2013–2014) of 434 children aged 5–10 years was conducted, based on the China, Children, Homes, Health (CCHH) study (2011−2012) in Shanghai, China. Information on asthmatic and allergic symptoms (wheeze, rhinitis, and eczema) were collected using validated questionnaires. Ten phthalate metabolites in morning urine samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the associations between symptoms and urinary phthalate metabolites controlling for demographics, family history of allergic diseases and other covariates. Results Nine out of 10 phthalate metabolites were detected in all subjects (average detection rate of 93.2%). By multivariable logistic regression analyses, the 4th quartile of Mono‑ n ‑butyl phthalate (MnBP) (reference: 1st quartile) had adjusted prevalence odds ratios (aPOR S) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) of 2.27(1.06–4.88), 2.14(1.02–4.46) and 2.98(1.19–7.50) for wheeze, rhinitis and eczema, respectively, while those of Mono‑isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) were 2.23(1.08–4.62) and 2.96(1.02–8.60) for rhinitis and eczema, respectively. The highest quartile of mono‑2‑ethyl‑5‑hydroxyhexyl phthalate(MEHHP) and mono‑2‑ethyl‑5‑oxohexyl phthalate(MEOHP) had aPOR S and 95%CIs of 3.10(1.10–8.74) and 2.63(1.02–6.80) for eczema, respectively. By summing up the 4 low molecular weight metabolites (∑ 4 LMWP) and all 9 metabolites (∑ 9 Total), the highest quartiles of ∑ 4 LMWP and∑ 9 Total were significantly associated with all symptoms. In most of the above associations, a significantly increasing trend from the 1st to the 4th quartile was observed. Subjects with 2 or 3 concomitant symptoms (reference: no symptoms) had significant positive associations with a higher level (the 4th quartile) of phthalate metabolites. Conclusions Low MW metabolites such as MnBP and MiBP, high MW DEHP and the total amount of phthalate metabolites might have adverse health effects on asthma and allergic symptoms in Chinese children. Highlights • Urinary MiBP and MnBP were associated with childhood asthma and allergic symptoms. • A dose-effect relationship were found in urinary MiBP, MnBP and∑ 4 LMWP. • Urinary MEHHP, MEOHP and MBzP were associated with eczema and rhinitis in children. • Phthalates exposure might increase the risk of allergies in Chinese children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Childhood asthma is prevalent in China. However, there is a lack of evidence on whether household renovation, including the materials used and the periods, are associated with the disease. Objectives To investigate the associations between household decoration materials and renovation periods, and childhood asthma and its related symptoms. Methods During 2010–2012, a retrospective cohort study was initiated in seven cities of China, and 40,010 children, aged 3–6 years, were recruited. Data on demographics, health status, and home decoration conditions were collected using a parent-administered questionnaire. Two-level (city-child) logistic regression analyses with adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed to show the target associations. Sensitivity analysis was performed by stratifying data for children in the southern and northern cities. Results Children whose homes underwent renovation or the addition of new furniture within 1 year before pregnancy, during pregnancy, at age 0–1 year, and after age 1 year had significantly ( p  < 0.05) higher prevalence of childhood asthma and its related symptoms. The use of solid wood floors and wallpaper had significant associations (cement: AOR, 95% CI: 1.59, 1.17–2.17; lime: AOR, 95% CI: 1.31, 1.00–1.71) with an increased risk of lifetime asthma. Household renovation and the addition of new furniture during pregnancy had significant associations with lifetime asthma (renovation: AOR, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.01–1.51); lifetime wheeze (renovation: AOR, 95% CI: 1.21, 1.05–1.39; furniture: AOR, 95% CI: 1.24, 1.14–1.36), current wheeze (renovation: AOR, 95% CI, 1.21 1.05–1.40; furniture: AOR, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.12–1.34), and current dry cough (renovation: AOR, 95% CI: 1.41, 1.23–1.63; furniture: AOR, 95% CI: 1.28, 1.17–1.41). Similar associations were found between the addition of new furniture during early childhood and lifetime asthma and its related symptoms. Except for the association between lifetime wheeze and flooring materials, the studied associations were generally stronger among children from the northern cities. Conclusions We confirmed that using cellulose based materials in home decoration and renovation, and adding new furniture during early childhood and pregnancy could be risk factors for childhood asthma. The association between household decoration during early childhood and childhood asthma may be stronger in the northern cities of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to household phthalates has been reported to have adverse effects on children's health. In this paper, we used phthalate metabolites in the first morning urine as indicators of household phthalate exposures and examined their associations with residential characteristics, lifestyles and dietary habits among young children. During 2013–2014, we collected morning urines from children aged 5–10 years in Shanghai, China and obtained the related information about analyzed factors in this study by questionnaires. Urinary phthalate metabolites were analyzed by isotope dilution-high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-heated electrospray ionization source (HESI) coupled with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. ANOVA, the Mann-Whitney or Kruskai-Wallis rank tests, and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to examine the target associations. Ten metabolites of seven phthalates in 434 urine samples were analyzed. The detection rates of eight metabolites (MiBP, MnBP, MEHP, MECPP, MEHHP, MEOHP, MEP, and MMP) were > 90%, except for MBzP (51.2%), and MCHP with < 10.0% of detection rate was not included in analyses. By multivariate linear regression analyses, factors significantly associated with higher concentrations of metabolites included non-usage household air cleaners (MEP and MEHP), changing the child's pillowcase less than one time a week (DEHP metabolites), dusting furniture in the child's bedroom less than three times a week (MMP and MnBP), using more plastic toys (DEHP metabolites and MEP), often having soft drinks (DEHP metabolites) and candies (MiBP). Our results indicated that phthalate exposures were common among Shanghai children and residential characteristics had less significant associations with urinary phthalate metabolites compared with lifestyles and dietary habits. Using less plastic toys, having less candies and soft drinks, using household air cleaner, as well as frequently changing the child's pillowcase and dusting furniture in the child's bedroom could reduce phthalate exposures among children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have reported that certain aspects of the household environments are associated with adverse birth outcomes, but associations have been inconsistent. Few of these studies have been conducted in China. During 2011–2012, we conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study and collected 13,335 parents-reported questionnaires for 4–6-year-olds children in Shanghai, China. We investigated associations of household environmental factors (environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), cooking fuel, dampness, pet-keeping, and home renovation) during gestation with preterm birth (PTB, gestational age < 37 weeks), low birth weight (LBW, birth weight < 2500 g), term low birth weight (T-LBW, LBW when the gestational age was ≥ 37 weeks), and small for gestational age (SGA, birth weight < 10th percentile of birth weight for gestational age). A total of 4.1% children were premature; 2.9% had LBW and 1.6% had T-LBW; 8.1% were SGA. In the multiple logistic regression analyses, home renovation during gestation was associated with PTB (adjusted odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.68, 1.11–2.54) and LBW (1.64, 0.99–2.72). Paternal smoking was associated with PTB (1.18, 0.98–1.43). No significant associations were found for SGA. Neither household dampness nor cooking fuel were significantly associated with birth outcomes. For boys, paternal smoking was associated with PTB (1.31, 1.02–1.69); home renovation during gestation was associated with PTB (2.14, 1.27–3.61) and LBW (2.19, 1.09–4.43). Among children whose mothers were ≥ 34-year-olds during gestation, paternal smoking (1.73, 1.04–2.76) and home renovation during gestation (1.80, 1.18–2.76) was associated with PTB. Our findings demonstrate that home renovation and ETS during gestation may be risk factors for adverse birth outcomes. Associations of these factors with adverse birth outcomes appear to be stronger in boys and among mothers older than 34 years during gestation. Home renovation and ETS exposure should be avoided during gestation, especially for pregnancies with male fetuses and older pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether ambient air pollution is associated with childhood atopic eczema is controversial. In this paper, we selected 3358 preschool children who had not altered residences since pregnancy from a cross-sectional study during 2011–2012 in Shanghai, China, and obtained parent-reported data regarding childhood atopic eczema using an improved ISAAC questionnaire. We recorded daily concentrations of SO 2 , NO 2 , and PM 10 throughout the child's lifetime (2006–2012), and calculated period-averaged concentrations for each district where the child lived to represent the child's exposure levels of these pollutants during different periods. In the multiple logistic regression analyses adjusted for potential confounders as well as for the other pollutants in the same periods, childhood atopic eczema was significantly associated with increments of NO 2 in the approximate interquartile range (20 μg/m 3 ) during gestational period (adjusted OR, 95% CI for eczema lifetime-ever: 1.80, 1.29–2.49; for eczema in the year prior to the survey: 2.32, 1.57–3.43) and during the first year of life (2.00, 1.40–2.84; 2.16, 1.43–3.28). Exposure to elevated NO 2 in the first two years, three years and total lifetime, as well as exposure to mixtures containing NO 2 in each of these periods, were consistently associated with increased likelihood of childhood eczema. The highest odds ratios were found between exposure to a mixture of SO 2 and NO 2 during total lifetime (increment: 35 μg/m 3 ) and childhood eczema (adjusted OR, 95% CI: 2.80, 1.75–4.48; 3.50, 1.98–6.19). No significant associations were found between childhood eczema and ambient SO 2 and PM 10 individually or in mixtures. This study indicates that gestational and lifetime exposures to ambient NO 2 are risk factors for atopic eczema in childhood. Exposure to ambient SO 2 and PM 10 may enhance the effect of NO 2 exposure on childhood eczema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Associations of ambient air pollutants with respiratory health are inconsistent. Objectives We analyzed the associations of gestational and early life exposures to air pollutants with doctor-diagnosed asthma, allergic rhinitis, and pneumonia in children. Methods We selected 3358 preschool children who did not alter residences after birth from a cross-sectional study in 2011–2012 in Shanghai, China. Parents reported children's respiratory health history, home environment, and family lifestyle behaviors. We collected daily concentrations of sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ), nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), and particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM 10 ) during the child's total lifetime (2006–2012) for each district where the children lived. We analyzed the associations using logistic regression models. Results After adjusting for covariates and the other studied pollutants, we found that exposure to NO 2 (increment of 20 μg/m 3 ) during the first year of life was significantly associated with asthma [odds ratio (OR) = 1.77; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29–2.43] and allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.07–2.61). Exposure to NO 2 during gestation, the first two and three years, and over total lifetimewas all consistently associated with increased odds of allergic rhinitis. Quartiles of NO 2 concentration during different exposure periods showed a slight dose–response relationship with the studied diseases. These diseases had significant associations with pollutant mixtures that included NO 2 , but had no significant association with exposures to SO 2 and PM 10 individually or in mixtures. Conclusions Gestational and early life exposures to ambient NO 2 are risk factors for childhood respiratory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of children allergic rhinitis has been increasing in China and associated factors still are not clear. In the present paper, we selected 13,335 parent-reported questionnaires of 4-6 years-old children, in a cross-sectional study from April 2011 to April 2012 in Shanghai city, and investigated associations of various factors with parent-reported allergic rhinitis (doctor-diagnosed) and rhinitis symptoms in childhood. After adjusted by age, sex, family history of atopy, and respondent of questionnaire, we find that no siblings, mother in older age during pregnancy, shorter breastfeeding, using antibiotics in the first year, and home dampness-related exposures, had significant associations with increased prevalence of the studied diseases. Location, type, building area, decoration materials and construction period of the residence, also had significant associations with these diseases. Current parental smoking and pet-keeping had no significant associations with the studied diseases. Incense-burning and using mosquito coils had significant associations with reduced risk of allergic rhinitis and with increased risk of rhinitis symptoms. Using air cleaner and cleaning the residence in high frequency had associations with increased risk, but eating fast food and ice cream often had associations with the reduced risk, of the studied diseases. Families with children being diagnosed allergic rhinitis likely change their lifestyle behaviors. In conclusion, childhood rhinitis could be influenced by heredity and many "environmental exposures". Avoidance behaviors and reverse causation in parental smoking, pet-keeping, and dietary habits for childhood rhinitis should be carefully considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotube (CNT) is an ideal electrode material for supercapacitors due to its low electronic and ionic charge-transfer resistances. Here we reported the direct synthesis 3D carbon nanotube foam (CNTF) macrostructure by conversing CO 2 through template-directed chemical vapour deposition. Using this unique network structure and outstanding electrical and mechanical properties of the CNTF, as an example, we demonstrate the excellent electrochemical properties of Ni(OH) 2 /CNTF composite. Based on the total mass of the electrode, as high as specific capacitances of 259 and 131 F g −1 are obtained at current densities of 0.5 and 10 A g −1 respectively. Meanwhile, the electrode also exhibits excellent long cycle life along with 94.0% specific capacitance retained after 2000 cycle tests. Moreover, this template-directed CVD technique is versatile and scalable, and can be a general strategy for fabricating a broad class of three-dimensional macroscopic structures of determined shapes with excellent properties and new uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The microstructures in WO3 films were characterized systematically. [•] The photocurrent of WO3 under different light sources irradiation is investigated. [•] Hydrogen-treated WO3 films show superior infrared photoresponse property. [•] The electron trapping effect is proposed to explain the slow decay of photocurrent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this work, a smart platform was reported with an ability to rapidly screen the gas sensing properties of metal oxide gas sensors which were loaded on a single material chip with a capability of 36 sensor films. Among the SnO2-based material sensitized with various catalysts (Mo, Pd, Cd, Mn, Pt, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Sm, Gd) in different concentrations, a significant enhancement of sensing performance was observed for the film with surface functionalized La. To intrinsically investigate its sensitization mechanism, the changes in microstructure and surface valence of the SnO2-based materials were characterized by XRD, SEM, XPS, PL, HRTEM and EDX. It is demonstrated that the hydrated lanthanum chloride transformed to La2O3 with an intermediate of LaOCl during the sintering process of the samples. Thus, the sensitization mechanism of La2O3 can be concluded into two items: (1) numerous of oxygen vacancies are newly created on the SnO2 surface through the LaOCl to La2O3 transformation resulted in the enhancement of gas-sensing properties; (2) the chemisorbed peroxide O2 2− on La2O3 surface has the ability to cause an H-abstraction reaction with hydrocarbon, which may account for the decrease of optimum temperature toward formaldehyde. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] The calculation of IPCE for heterojunction used in photoconduction is established. [•] A TiO2/SnO2 composite system with 11 ingredient points is fabricated and tested. [•] The sample whose mole ratio is TiO2:SnO2 =2:8 have the best IPCE. [•] The best IPCE is attributed to the match of energy band and the conductive channel. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Photocatalysis is a promising technique to fully decompose toluene and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this work, porous TiO2/SiC nanocomposite films were synthesized by ball-milling and screen printing technique. Their photocatalytic properties in the degradation of toluene were carried out in a self-made reactor system. It was found that, in dry condition, the mineralization ratio of toluene by TiO2/SiC nanocomposite increased to 1.61 times comparing with pure TiO2. What is more, when TiO2/SiC nanocomposite was applied in humid condition the mineralization ratio increased to nearly fivefold that of pure TiO2 in dry, up to 100% of mineralization. These results were smoothly explained by the synergistic effect of TiO2–SiC heterojunction and the interaction between water and TiO2 (SiC). Due to the special staggered type energy band structure heterojunction, the photogenerated electrons gathered on TiO2 and holes enriched on SiC. Both of which participated in the degradation of toluene in more efficient ways and owing to the hydrophilicity of TiO2 and hydrophobicity of SiC, the mineralization capacity of photogenerated electrons and holes was largely promoted. The final results indicated that the hydrophilicity (hydrophobicity) of photocatalyst must be taken into account in gas-phase photocatalytic degradation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A polydopamine (PDA)-reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposite was prepared by a one-step procedure and was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The characterizations confirm the successful reduction of graphene oxide to RGO in the PDA-RGO nanocomposite. The application of PDA-RGO nanocomposite in simultaneous determination of hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CC) was investigated. The ΔE p between HQ and CC was 103mV, which was wide enough to discriminate the dihydroxybenzene isomers. The peak current of HQ was linear to its concentration in the range of 1.0×10−6 to 2.3×10−4 M and the peak current of CC was linear to its concentration in the range of 1.0×10−6 to 2.5×10−4 M. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, the thermal probe is firstly introduced and used in adsorption refrigeration to measure the working pair’s thermal conductivities. Different types of compound adsorbents were prepared, and the thermal conductivities of all the types were measured with different adsorption capacities. Experimental results demonstrate that: with the same adsorption capacity, the conductivities of the compound adsorbents increase with the quantity of sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) content. The conductivities of the compound adsorbents increase sharply when the sodium silicate content is between 0% and 7.5% and increase slowly when the content is 7.5–20%. For 13× zeolite and compound adsorbents Z3 and Z4, their thermal conductivities increase as a quadratic polynomial with their adsorption capacities. The conductivities increase more than 158.2% when the adsorption capacities increase from 0% to 25%. The thermal conductivities of compound adsorbent Z3 and Z4 are 0.183 and 0.199W (mK)−1, respectively, and increase about 65.4% and 80.1%, respectively, compared with the 13× zeolite. With these test results, the compound adsorbent Z4 is used for making an adsorption bed, and the experimental coefficient of performance (COP) of the solar cooling tube is about 0.26. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] This study aimed to explore the thermal comfort situation in children's bedrooms and its association with the prevalence of respiratory diseases among children. On basis of field measurements in 454 families conducted by CCHH (China, Children, Home, Health) study group in Shanghai during 2013–2014, 167 samples inspected in transition season were selected to study the thermal sensation and thermal comfort of children in residential environments. Pearson χ2 test and multiple logistic regression were employed to examine the thermal comfort and respiratory diseases among children. In the transition season, 24% of the residents had the predicted percentage of dissatisfied (PPD) higher than 40%. The prevalence of children with asthma, dry cough, and pneumonia were 37.7%, 31.1%, and 31.7%, respectively, where boys had a higher prevalence than girls. Children's thermal discomfort (indicators: PMV, PPD, SET) had a dose–response relationship with respiratory diseases. Compared with the neutral thermal environment (PMV[-1, 0, +1]), cold environment (PMV [-3, −2]) was associated with a higher risk of asthma, dry cough and pneumonia in children for odds ratio (95%CI, P < 0.05) of 1.19 (1.07–1.32), 1.15 (1.03–1.29) and 1.89 (1.16–3.09) respectively. After adjusting for confounders, the significant associations were also found between children in cold environment and asthma, dry cough and pneumonia (AOR is 1.34, 1.11, 1.23, P < 0.05). In transition season, the thermal conditions in children's bedrooms in Shanghai were worse than expected, where PMV presented as cool to cold and high PPD. The risk of asthma and pneumonia increased significantly with the thermal discomfort and showing the sensitivity to "gender" and "weight" of children. The dose–response relationship suggested paying more attention to thermal comfort and adverse health outcomes caused by relative cold environment in transition season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A flexible, self-powered, high-performance photodetector with the Ni/perovskite nanowires/Al structure has been fabricated successfully. CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 nanowires were synthesized by a simple spin-coating method at the appropriate temperature on a flexible substrate of polyimide (PI) film. The channel length between Ni-Al electrodes is about 15 μm. A built-in electric field has been established in the asymmetric device, which can effectively separate electron-hole pairs. The as-fabricated photodetector exhibited a high sensitivity from 405 nm to 808 nm. The external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the device is 33.7% at 405 nm with 0 V bias. Note that the device showed good performances of high sensitivity for detecting low incident power density. In addition, a responsivity of 0.227 A cm−2 was achieved under the incident light power of 1 × 10−8 W cm−2. The photodetector showed a high on/off ratio of 147, fast response speed of tens of microseconds, and excellent flexibility with a slight variation of photocurrent after bending test. These results create new opportunities for constructing low-cost, simple-process and high-performance photodetectors. Image 1 • CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 nanowires were fabricated by a simple spin-coated method. • Asymmetric Ni-Al electrodes were used to form a built-in electric field. • The device exhibited good photoelectric performances with 0 V bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]