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Eu3+ doped TiO2–SiO2 powders were produced by the sol-gel method. The TiO2 content was changed from low to high content (20–100 mol %) annealing at 900 °C for 1 h, and the 2 mol % Eu3+ doped 60%TiO2–40%SiO2 powders were annealed at different temperatures (600–1000 °C). The structure of the samples was investigated by high resolution transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and Raman technique. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra and PL excitation spectra were recorded at room temperature. The results showed that the PL intensity was dependent on the annealing temperatures and TiO2 content, which could be attributed to the cluster formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the separate spatial soliton pair supported by both the linear and quadratic electro-optic effects. The numerical solutions of the bright–bright, dark–dark and bright–dark separate spatial soliton pairs are deduced from the coupling equations. The intensity profiles, coupling effects and dynamical evolutions of three types of separate spatial soliton pairs are analysed by numerical method. The two solitons in bright–bright separate spatial soliton pair can affect each other only by adjusting the background beam intensity. In dark–dark soliton pair, the two solitons can affect each other by adjusting the soliton beam intensity besides the background beam. And in bright–dark soliton pair, the bright soliton can affect the dark soliton only by the background beam intensity but the dark soliton can affect the bright soliton by both the background beam and soliton beam intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO/HfO2:Eu nanocables were prepared by radio frequency sputtering with electrospun ZnO nanofibers as cores. The well-crystallized ZnO/HfO2:Eu nanocables showed a uniform intact core–shell structure, which consisted of a hexagonal ZnO core and a monoclinic HfO2 shell. The photoluminescence properties of the samples were characterized. A white-light band emission consisted of blue, green, and red emissions was observed in the nanocables. The blue and green emissions can be attributed to the zinc vacancy and oxygen vacancy defects in ZnO/HfO2:Eu nanocables, and the yellow–red emissions are derived from the inner 4f-shell transitions of corresponding Eu3+ ions in HfO2:Eu shells. Enhanced white-light emission was observed in the nanocables. The enhancement of the emission is ascribed to the structural changes after coaxial synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, several 3-dimensional (3-D) parameter estimation and localization algorithms for wireless near-field (NF) sources are proposed employing the uniform circular array (UCA) structure. In the single-base-station case, the algebraic relation is demonstrated between the azimuth angle under the far-field (FF) assumption and the actual NF source firstly. Secondly, two groups of antenna pairs are selected with distances less than half the wavelength, which are called short baselines in the interferometer method. The foregoing short-baseline method is qualified to localize an NF source. In addition, a long-baseline method is also proposed with further research. Two groups of antenna pairs with distances greater than half the wavelength are selected as two long baselines. In the multiple-base-stations case, another two novel algorithms are also proposed. The first one is the centroid algorithm, which is based on the centroid calculation of three estimated source locations. And the second one is the perpendicular foot algorithm, which takes the perpendicular foot within three estimated source locations as the final positioning location. Simulation results illustrate that the proposed algorithms can achieve higher localization accuracy than the conventional 3-D Root MUSIC method. Moreover, the long-baseline method performs better than the short-baseline method. And it is also shown that the proposed perpendicular foot algorithm shows better performance than the proposed centroid algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoluminescence properties of Tb-doped ZrO2 nanofibers synthesized by electrospinning technique were investigated. The intensity of the green light emission could be controlled by oxygen vacancy concentration, which could be enhanced by argon gas annealing or diminished by oxygen annealing. An energy transfer mechanism is proposed that the oxygen vacancies in the host acted as effective sensitizers for the adjacent Tb ions. The oxygen vacancies transferred excitation energy to the adjacent Tb ions sites and thus greatly enhanced the green emission. These results are of great importance for the future optoelectronic applications of Tb-doped ZrO2 nanofibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insufficient sensitivity caused by low radiative intensity of employed fluorescent material is the main obstacle toward early accurate diagnosis of fatal diseases when applying fluorescence analysis. Herein, we have developed a dual amplification procedure to overcome this issue. We first synthesize high-quality CdSe@ZnS@SiO 2 core/shell quantum dots (QDs) with type-I band alignment to confine the carrier wave functions, thus ensuring high quantum yield (∼ 80%). The fluorescence intensity of those QDs is further amplified by localized surface plasmon resonance effect enabled by gold nanoparticles. We finally construct CdSe@ZnS@SiO 2 and Au@SiO 2 immune sandwich biosensor platform, and take C-reaction protein (CRP) as a test case. It is shown that this biosensor platform exhibits a wide detecting range between 0.5 and 100 ng/mL, and detecting limit of 0.076 ng/mL. We further apply this detecting scheme in serum and actual clinical, competing performance compared with the prevailing standard measurements in hospital has been obtained. Both experiment and the finite element analysis (FEA) approach calculation results indicate that a highly enhanced electric field between Au@SiO 2 and CdSe@ZnS@SiO 2 enhances the radiative recombination rates of the QDs@SiO 2 and decreases the fluorescence lifetime of that. The fluorescence intensity amplification scheme proposed herein is of great significance for the real-time and high-sensitivity early detection of biomarkers in the biomedicine. • Designing novel route of biological sensing via high-quality QDs-Gold system. • Highly enhanced electric field between Au@SiO 2 and QDs exists by Experiment and theoretical results. • By LSPR effect, the platform exhibits high sensitivity and wide detection range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing a practical and efficient method for the Z -isomerization of lycopene is essential, as the Z -isomers exhibit higher biological activity and bioavailability compared to the all- E -isomer. The aim of this study was to develop an innovative approach to induce thermal Z -isomerization of (all- E)-lycopene by utilizing a dual-media system consisting of oil and ethanol in conjunction with a heat-pressure process. Specifically, the effects of reaction temperature, initial reaction pressure, ethanol volume ratio, and reaction time were investigated. The novel reaction system effectively facilitated the Z -isomerization of (all- E)-lycopene. For instance, when subjected to a reaction at 120 °C for 30 min, the total Z -isomer ratio surpassed 66%. FTIR, DSC, and XRD confirmed the presence of Z -isomer-rich lycopene dispersed in oil in an amorphous state and with a lower melting point. Moreover, an evaluation of the stability of Z -isomer-rich lycopene in olive oil revealed a decreasing trend in both lycopene concentration and total Z -isomer ratio with increasing temperature and storage time. Notably, among the lycopene isomers, (5 Z)-lycopene showed the greatest stability compared to other isomers of lycopene. This eco-friendly and efficient isomerization technology is a useful approach for producing Z -isomer-rich lycopene materials. [Display omitted] • Lycopene Z -isomerization was promoted by using a dual-media system. • XRD analysis showed Z -isomer-rich lycopene dispersed in oil with an amorphous state. • (5 Z)-Lycopene exhibits the most favorable storage stability compared to other isomers of lycopene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a feasible expectation-conditional-maximization (ECM) algorithm is developed for finding the maximum likelihood estimates of parameters of the skew-normal based stochastic frontier model. The closed-form formulas for updating parameters in CM-steps are derived. The proposed methodology is illustrated with simulations and a real data example, where we find the new ECM algorithm outperforms the numerical approach adopted in the previous study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The benefits of combining benzoic acid and essential oils (BAO) to mitigate intestinal impairment during the weaning process have been well established, while the detailed underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Previous research has primarily focused on the reparative effects of BAO on intestinal injury, while neglecting its potential in enhancing intestinal stress resistance. Methods: In this study, we investigated the pre-protective effect of BAO against LPS-induced stress using a modified experimental procedure. Piglets were pre-supplemented with BAO for 14 d, followed by a challenge with LPS or saline to collect blood and intestinal samples. Results: Our findings demonstrated that BAO supplementation led to significant improvements in piglets' final weight, average daily gain, and feed intake/body gain ratio. Additionally, BAO supplementation positively influenced the composition of intestinal microbiota, increasing beneficial Actinobacteriota and Alloprevotella while reducing harmful Desulfobacterota, Prevotella and Oscillospira. Furthermore, BAO supplementation effectively mitigated oxidative disturbances and inflammatory responses induced by acute LPS challenge. This was evidenced by elevated levels of T-AOC, SOD, and GSH, as well as decreased levels of MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6 in the plasma. Moreover, piglets subjected to LPS challenge and pre-supplemented with BAO exhibited significant improvements in intestinal morphological structure and enhanced integrity, as indicated by restored expression levels of Occludin and Claudin-1 compared to the non-supplemented counterparts. Further analysis revealed that BAO supplementation enhanced the jejunal antioxidative capacity by increasing GSH-Px levels and decreasing MDA levels under the LPS challenge and stimulated the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Additionally, the reduction of TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways activation and proinflammatory factor were also observed in the jejunal of those piglets fed with BAO. Conclusions: In summary, our study demonstrates that pre-supplementation of BAO enhances the anti-stress capacity of weaned piglets by improving intestinal microbiota composition, reinforcing the intestinal barrier, and enhancing antioxidative and anti-inflammatory capabilities. These effects are closely associated with the activation of Nrf2 and TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalytic oxidation of organic pollutants is a well-known and effective technique for pollutant abatement. Unfortunately, this method is significantly hindered in practical applications by the low efficiency and difficult recovery of the catalysts in a powdery form. Herein, a three-dimensional (3D) framework of Fe-incorporated Ni 3 S 2 nanosheets in-situ grown on Ni foam (Fe-Ni 3 S 2 @NF) was fabricated by a facile two-step hydrothermal process and applied to trigger peroxymonosulfate (PMS) oxidation of organic compounds in water. A homogeneous growth environment enabled the uniform and scalable growth of Fe-Ni 3 S 2 nanosheets on the Ni foam. Fe-Ni 3 S 2 @NF possessed outstanding activity and durability in activating PMS, as it effectively facilitated electron transfer from organic pollutants to PMS. Fe-Ni 3 S 2 @NF initially supplied electrons to PMS, causing the catalyst to undergo oxidation, and subsequently accepted electrons from organic compounds, returning to its initial state. The introduction of Fe into the Ni 3 S 2 lattice enhanced electrical conductivity, promoting mediated electron transfer between PMS and organic compounds. The 3D conductive Ni foam provided an ideal platform for the nucleation and growth of Fe-Ni 3 S 2 , accelerating pollutant abatement due to its porous structure and high conductivity. Furthermore, its monolithic nature simplified the catalyst recycling process. A continuous flow packed-bed reactor by encapsulating Fe-Ni 3 S 2 @NF catalyst achieved complete pollutant abatement with continuous operation for 240 h, highlighting its immense potential for practical environmental remediation. This study presents a facile synthesis method for creating a novel type of monolithic catalyst with high activity and durability for decontamination through Fenton-like processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Vibrational fine structures in the conductance spectra of a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon molecule were calculated. • Good agreement between calculated spectra and experimental results enabled detailed assignment to the vibrational structures. • Difference to the vibrational progression of different orbitals was explained by changes to electron-vibration couplings. The conductance spectra of a 5,10,15,20-tetraphenylbisbenz[5,6]indeno[1,2,3-cd: 1′,2′,3′-lm]perylene molecule that was experimentally studied recently were simulated based on density functional theory and Franck-Condon simulations. The vibrational structures in available experimental conductance spectra associated with different frontier orbitals of the molecule were nicely reproduced. The good agreement between simulated and experimental results enables the unambiguous identification of the vibrational modes involved in the charge transport processes. Differences to the vibrational progressions in the conductance spectra associated with the frontier orbitals were found to be caused by changes of the electron-vibration coupling properties of the corresponding electronic transitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Removal efficiency followed the order: α-MnO 2 > γ-MnO 2 > β-MnO 2 > ε-MnO 2 > δ-MnO 2. • α-MnO₂ possessed outstanding activity and durability in activating PI. • Electron-mediated process primarily derived pollutant degradation. • α-MnO₂ could initiate the activation of PI for the α-MnO₂-PI* formation. • Degradation efficiency was associated with the crystal phase and Mn (IV) content. Manganese dioxide (MnO 2), renowned for its abundant natural crystal phases, emerges as a leading catalyst candidate for the degradation of pollutants. The relationship between its crystal phase and catalytic activity, particularly for periodate activation, has remained both ambiguous and contentious. This study delineates the influence of various synthetic MnO 2 phase structures on their capabilities in catalyzing periodate-assisted pollutant oxidation. Five distinct MnO 2 phase structures (α-, β-, γ-, δ-, and ε-MnO₂) were prepared and evaluated to activate periodate and degrade pollutants, following the sequence: α-MnO₂ > γ-MnO₂ > β-MnO₂ > ε-MnO₂ > δ-MnO₂. Through quenching experiments, electron paramagnetic resonance tests, and in situ electrochemical studies, we found an electron transfer-mediated process drive pollutant degradation, facilitated by a highly reactive metastable intermediate complex (MnO₂/PI*). Quantitative structure-activity relationship analysis further indicated that degradation efficiency is strongly associated with both the crystal phase and the Mn (IV) content, highlighting it as a key active site. Moreover, the α-MnO₂ phase demonstrated exceptional recycling stability, enabling an effective pollutant removal in a continuous flow packed-bed reactor for 168 h. Thus, α-MnO₂/PI proved highly effective in mineralizing organic pollutants and reducing their toxicities, highlighting its significant potential for environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nymphaea candida Presl (NC), traditionally used in medicine for heat syndrome-related ailments, possesses antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective properties. This research investigates the antidepressant and neuroprotective effects and mechanisms of Nymphaea candida Presl ethyl acetate (NCEA). Primary components of NCEA were identified as phenolic acids and flavonoids through UPLC-MS/MS analysis. The depression mouse model was induced via intracerebroventricular injection of Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), followed by oral administration of fluoxetine and NCEA for one week. Biochemical assays and HE staining confirmed NCEA's non-toxicity and protective effects on the liver and lungs. NCEA administration mitigated LPS-induced depressive behaviors, decreased IL-1β, TNF-α levels in the hippocampus, suppressed microglial activation, reduced Iba-1 expression, and increased NA, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and dendritic spine density in the hippocampus. Furthermore, NCEA enhanced cell viability in a CORT-induced PC12 cell model, decreased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release rate, total superoxide dismutase (SOD) inhibition rate, intracellular nitric oxide (NO) release, and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Our research findings suggest that NCEA exhibits significant antidepressant effects, which may be attributed to its reduction of neuroinflammation, improvement in neurotransmitter levels, neuronal protection, and antioxidative stress properties. [Display omitted] • For the first time, UPLC-MS/MS was used to qualitatively analyze NCEA. • Selecting multiple intraventricular injections of LPS to induce depression model. • NCEA has low toxicity. • NCEA improves LPS-induced depressive behavior in mice. • Inhibited CORT-induced oxidative stress in PC12 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nickel–manganese sulfide grown on Ni foam was developed via a hydrothermal method. • NiMnS@NF possessed outstanding activity and durability in activating PI. • NiMnS@NF can initiate the activation of PI for the NiMnS@NF–PI* formation. • Superoxide radicals played a cooperative role in removal of organic contaminants. • NF's monolithic nature simplified the catalyst recycling process. Nickel–manganese bimetallic sulfide microparticles in situ grown on Ni foam (NiMnS@NF) with controllable morphology and composition were developed via a hydrothermal method to boost potassium periodate activation for oxidation of multiple micropollutants. Benefiting from the unique morphology and structure, along with a synergistic effect of different components, the optimized NiMnS@NF exhibits outstanding performance and durability in potassium periodate activation, surpassing other oxidant systems (e.g., H 2 O 2 , peroxydisulfate, and peroxymonosulfate). Electron spin resonance analysis, scavenging tests, electrochemical analysis, and galvanic oxidation tests unveiled that NiMnS@NF can initiate the activation of potassium periodate, resulting in the formation of high-potential metastable intermediates (NiMnS@NF–potassium periodate*). Additionally, superoxide radical anions play a cooperative role in organic elimination. The experimental results further indicate that the synergy among Mn/Ni and S induces a local charge redistribution, improving electron transfer capability and Mn(II)/Mn(III)/Mn(IV) and Ni(II)/Ni(III) redox reactions. This work proposes a feasible and efficient monolithic catalyst for environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a major inducer of higher morbidity and mortality in the pig industry and catch-up growth (CUG) before weanling could significantly restore this negative influence. But there was limited knowledge about the underlying mechanism of CUG occurrence. Methods: Eighty litters of newborn piglets were divided into normal birth weight (NBW) and IUGR groups according to birth weight. At 26 d, those piglets with IUGR but over average body weight of eighty litters of weaned piglets were considered as CUG, and the piglets with IUGR still below average body weight were considered as NCUG. This study was conducted to systemically compare the intestinal difference among NBW, CUG and NCUG weaned piglets considering the crucial role of the intestine for piglet growth. Results: The results indicated that the mRNA expression of nutrients (amino acids, glucose, and fatty acids) transporters, and mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) I were upregulated in CUG piglets' gut with improved morphology compared with those NCUG, as well as the ratio of P-AMPK/AMPK protein expression which is the indicator of energy metabolism. Meanwhile, CUG piglet's gut showed higher antioxidative capacity with increased SOD and GSH-Px activity, decreased MDA levels, as well as higher mRNA expressions of Nrf2, Keap1, SOD, and GSH-Px. Furthermore, inflammatory parameters including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-12 factors, and the activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways were significantly elevated in the NCUG intestine, while the protein expression of ZO-1, Occludin and Claudin-1 was reduced. The alpha diversity of fecal microbiota was higher in CUG piglets in contrast with NCUG piglets, and the increased beneficial bacteria and decreased pathogenic bacteria was also observed in CUG piglets. Conclusions: CUG piglet's intestine showed comprehensive restoration including higher nutrients transport, energy metabolism, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal physical barrier, while lower oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and pathogenic microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]