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Surface acoustic waves (SAWs) can transmit magnetization oscillation inside magnetoelastic films in the form of magnetoacoustic waves. If the frequency and wavenumber of SAWs match those of spin waves, magnon excitation can be observed. In this work, we studied the phonon–magnon conversion excited by longitudinal leaky SAWs, which possess the same dominant strain component like Rayleigh-type SAWs but a much higher phase velocity. The measured transmission power absorptions of both SAW modes due to spin wave resonance follow a linear frequency dependence and exhibit a fourfold symmetry. We demonstrate that longitudinal leaky SAWs can serve as a very effective means to excite stronger phonon–magnon coupling than Rayleigh SAWs at a lower wave number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lack of nonreciprocity is one of the major drawbacks of solid-state acoustic devices, which has hindered the development of microwave-frequency acoustic isolators and circulators. Here, we report a giant nonreciprocal transmission of shear-horizontal surface acoustic waves (SH-SAWs) on a LiTaO3 substrate coated with a negative–positive magnetostrictive bilayer structure of Ni/Ti/FeCoSiB. Although the static magnetic moments of two layers are parallel, SH-SAWs can excite optical-mode spin waves much stronger than acoustic-mode ones at relatively low frequencies via magnetoelastic coupling. The measured magnitude nonreciprocity exceeds 40 dB (or 80 dB/mm) at 2.333 GHz. In addition, maximum nonreciprocal phase accumulation reaches 188° (376 ° / mm), which is desired for an effective SAW circulator. Our theoretical model and calculations provide an insight into the observed phenomena and demonstrate a pathway for further improvement of nonreciprocal acoustic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field-dependence elastic modulus of magnetostrictive films, also called Δ E or Δ G effect, is crucial for ultrasensitive magnetic field sensors based on surface acoustic waves (SAWs). In spite of a lot of demonstrations, rare attention was paid to the frequency-dependence of Δ E or Δ G effect. In this work, shear horizontal-type SAW delay lines coated with a thin FeCoSiB layer have been studied at various frequencies upon applying magnetic fields. The change of shear modulus of FeCoSiB has been extracted by measuring the field dependent phase shift of SAWs. It is found that the Δ G effect is significantly enhanced at high-order harmonic frequencies close to the ferromagnetic resonance frequency, increasing by ∼82% compared to that at the first SAW mode (128 MHz). In addition, the smaller the effective damping factor of a magnetostrictive layer, the more pronounced Δ G effect can be obtained, which is explained by our proposed dynamic magnetoelastic coupling model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrolyte carbonation and the resulting air electrode plugging are the primary factors limiting the cycle life of aqueous alkaline zinc–air batteries (ZABs). In this work, calcium ion (Ca2+) additives were introduced into the electrolyte and the separator to resolve the above issues. Galvanostatic charge–discharge cycle tests were carried out to verify the effect of Ca2+ on electrolyte carbonation. With the modified electrolyte and separator, the cycle life of ZABs was improved by 22.2% and 24.7%, respectively. Ca2+ was introduced into the ZAB system to preferentially react with CO32− rather than K+ and then precipitated granular CaCO3 prior to K2CO3, which was deposited on the surface of the Zn anode and air cathode to form a flower-like CaCO3 layer, thereby prolonging its cycle life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low Gilbert damping factor is crucial for emerging magneto-acoustic devices. In current work, angle-dependent and temperature-dependent Gilbert damping of magnetostrictive FeCoSiB thin films have been investigated using electron spin resonance (ESR) and vector network analyzer ferromagnetic resonance (VNA-FMR) techniques, respectively. A very low Gilbert damping factor ∼0.0038 was measured with in-plane magnetic fields at room temperature. Temperature-dependent VNA-FMR results between 10 K and 300 K exhibit a conductivity-like damping feature, which can be attributed to the spin-orbital coupling dominantly controlled by the intraband scattering. Our results clearly indicate that highly magnetostrictive or piezomagnetic film does not necessarily have a high intrinsic damping factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the influence of temperature on the corrosion behavior of AlCoCrFeNi2.1 eutectic high-entropy alloy in a chloride-containing sulfuric acid solution was investigated using electrochemical measurement, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Results show that the passive film of AlCoCrFeNi2.1 is stable in chloride-containing sulfuric acid solutions at low temperatures, while an unstable film forms on the alloy at high temperatures. Furthermore, temperature changes the proportion of hydroxide and oxide in Fe and Cr, but it has no noticeable effect on Al and Ni, which is a significant factor on the passive behavior. L12 phase exhibits good corrosion resistance at different temperatures. Pitting occurred on B2 phase in the chloride-containing sulfuric acid solution at a low temperature of 5 °C, while pitting and dissolution take place on AlCoCrFeNi2.1 in the acid solution at room temperature and above. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, signed network representation has been applied to many fields, e.g. , recommendation platforms. A mainstream paradigm of network representation is to map nodes onto a low-dimensional space, such that the node proximity of interest can be preserved. Thus, a key aspect is the node proximity evaluation. Accordingly, three new node proximity metrics were proposed in this study, based on the rigorous theoretical investigation on a new distance metric - signed average first-passage time (SAFT). SAFT derives from a basic random-walk quantity for unsigned networks and can capture high-order network structure and edge signs. We conducted network representation using the proposed proximity metrics and empirically exhibited our advantage in solving two downstream tasks — sign prediction and link prediction. The code is publicly available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the application of neural network algorithm model in lung cancer imaging, and provide reference for the application and development of artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm model in lung cancer medical mirroring, so as to promote the development of ANN in this field. Meanwhile, it is hoped that the application of neural network algorithms in medical imaging can improve the survival rate and cure rate of lung cancer. In this study, an ANN algorithm model was selected to establish a lung cancer recognition model. After determining the lung cancer lesion area, the image segmentation algorithm was used to separately display the lung cancer lesion area, and a comparison experiment was designed to verify the accuracy of the model. ANNs were used to identify lung cancer, which can be concluded that the accuracy is 94.6%, the sensitivity is 95.7%, and the specificity is 93.5%. By combining image retrieval methods with lung cancer image segmentation algorithms, the lesion area of lung cancer can be clearly displayed. Therefore, the lung cancer image segmentation algorithm based on the neural network model has good recognition performance. This research can provide reference for the application of neural network algorithm model in the field of cancer diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemoperfusion is a well-developed method for removing bilirubin from patients with hyperbilirubinemia. The performance of adsorbents is crucial during the process. However, most adsorbents used for bilirubin removal are not suitable for clinical applications, because they either have poor adsorption performance or limited biocompatibility. Patients with hyperbilirubinemia usually have distinctive yellow skin, indicating that collagen, a primary component of the skin, may be an effective material for absorbing bilirubin from the blood. Based on this idea, we designed and synthesized collagen (Col) and collagen-polyethyleneimine (Col-PEI) microspheres and employed them as hemoperfusion adsorbents for bilirubin removal. The microspheres have an efficient adsorption rate, higher bilirubin adsorption capacity, and competitive adsorption of bilirubin in the bilirubin/bovine serum albumin (BSA) solution. The maximum adsorption capacities of Col and Col-PEI microspheres for bilirubin are 150.2 mg/g and 258.4 mg/g, respectively, which are higher than those of most traditional polymer microspheres. Additionally, the microspheres exhibit excellent blood compatibility originating from collagen. Our study provides a new collagen-based strategy for the hemoperfusion treatment of hyperbilirubinemia. • Two kinds of collagen-based hemoperfusion adsorbents for bilirubin removal • The microspheres exhibit higher bilirubin adsorption capacity. • The microspheres display low protein adsorption and outstanding compatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemoperfusion is a well-developed method for removing bilirubin from patients with hyperbilirubinemia. The performance of adsorbents is crucial during the process. However, most adsorbents used for bilirubin removal are not suitable for clinical applications, because they either have poor adsorption performance or limited biocompatibility. Patients with hyperbilirubinemia usually have distinctive yellow skin, indicating that collagen, a primary component of the skin, may be an effective material for absorbing bilirubin from the blood. Based on this idea, we designed and synthesized collagen (Col) and collagen-polyethyleneimine (Col-PEI) microspheres and employed them as hemoperfusion adsorbents for bilirubin removal. The microspheres have an efficient adsorption rate, higher bilirubin adsorption capacity, and competitive adsorption of bilirubin in the bilirubin/bovine serum albumin (BSA) solution. The maximum adsorption capacities of Col and Col-PEI microspheres for bilirubin are 150.2 mg/g and 258.4 mg/g, respectively, which are higher than those of most traditional polymer microspheres. Additionally, the microspheres exhibit excellent blood compatibility originating from collagen. Our study provides a new collagen-based strategy for the hemoperfusion treatment of hyperbilirubinemia. • Two kinds of collagen-based hemoperfusion adsorbents for bilirubin removal • The microspheres exhibit higher bilirubin adsorption capacity. • The microspheres display low protein adsorption and outstanding compatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The passive film properties of Ce-added AlCoCrFeNi 2.1 alloys are studied for the first time. • Ce addition is not conducive to corrosion resistance of the AlCoCrFeNi 2.1 alloy in H 2 SO 4 solution. • Ce increases the doping density and reduces the proportion of Cr oxides in the passive film. Eutectic high-entropy alloys (EHEAs), represented by AlCoCrFeNi2.1, are considered to be promising materials. However, the study of the corrosion behavior of EHEAs remains limited, which hinders further development. This study investigated the effect of Ce addition on the electrochemical behavior and passive film properties of AlCoCrFeNi 2.1 EHEAs in H 2 SO 4 solutions. The results show that the addition of Ce changed the properties of the passive film formed on the alloys, resulting in reduction in the proportion of Cr 2 O 3 , and thereby reduced the corrosion resistance. Moreover, a higher Ce content in the EHEAs was found to correspond to a more pronounced deterioration in corrosion resistance. Compared with the film formed at 0.2 V vs SCE , the film formed at 0.5 V vs SCE exhibited more optimal physicochemical properties, leading to a decrease in the passive current density. Notably, Ce was absent in the film formed at 0.2 V vs SCE , but present at 0.5 V vs SCE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is a new treatment method combining low-intensity ultrasound with sono-sensitizers, which has the advantages of non-invasiveness as well as low side effects, and has a very broad application prospect in antitumor clinics because of its high penetration ability to tissues and hence can be used to treat some deep lesions. Nevertheless, the clinical application of SDT is seriously affected by factors such as hypoxia of tumor microenvironment and low bioavailability of sono-sensitizers, and its in vivo tumor suppression efficiency is far from the desired expected effect. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are new hybrid crystalline porous materials synthesized using metal nodes and organic ligands. With a large specific surface area, adjustable and modifiable structures, good biodegradability, high drug loading, controlled drug release, and strong targeting, MOF can serve as a powerful multifunctional platform to effectively solve some of the problems faced in SDT. In this review, we present different types of MOFs as super-efficient sono-sensitizers carriers and the latest research progress in the area of MOFs having sonosensitizers as organic ligands to enhance SDT, using different types of sono-sensitizers as an entry point. Finally, we summarize some pertinent issues in ultrasound dynamics in potential practice and the future development prospect of ultrasound dynamics. In this review, we present different types of MOFs as super-efficient sonosensitizers carriers and MOFs with sonosensitizers as organic ligands to enhance SDT, using different types of sonosensitizers as an entry point. Finally, we summarize some pressing issues in ultrasound dynamics in clinical practice and look into the future development of ultrasound dynamics. [Display omitted] • Several of MOFs as super-efficient sonosensitizers carriers and MOFs with sonosensitizers were concluded. • The possible SDT mechanism was proposed. • The current promising application and its challenge in SDT were suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One-port magnetic surface acoustic wave (MSAW) resonators are fabricated by stacking multilayered (FeCoSiB/SiO2)n films directly on top of interdigital electrodes. It is shown that the magneto-acoustic response of the MSAW resonators critically depends the hysteresis of ΔE effect. For the magnetic multilayer without induced magnetic anisotropy, the resonance frequency (fR) exhibits a butterfly-like dependence on the external field, therefore, enabling bipolar detection of magnetic field smaller than its coercive field. However, for the magnetic multilayers with induced magnetic anisotropy, butterfly-like or loop-like fR–H curves are measured along the interdigtial electrode fingers or the SAW propagation direction, which can be attributed to the competition between the magnetic field-induced anisotropy and the stress-induced or shape anisotropy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose using kernel ridge regression (KRR) to avoid the step of selecting basis functions for regression-based approaches in pricing high-dimensional American options by simulation. Our contribution is threefold. Firstly, we systematically introduce the main idea and theory of KRR and apply it to American option pricing for the first time. Secondly, we show how to use KRR with the Gaussian kernel in the regression-later method and give the computationally efficient formulas for estimating the continuation values and the Greeks. Thirdly, we propose to accelerate and improve the accuracy of KRR by performing local regression based on the bundling technique. The numerical test results show that our method is robust and has both higher accuracy and efficiency than the Least Squares Monte Carlo method in pricing high-dimensional American options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasingly serious problem of traffic congestion has become a critical issue that urban managers need to focus on. However, as urban scale and structure have already taken shape, the use of existing road resources to achieve effective route selection for vehicles is the key to solving this traffic congestion problem. Existing research has mainly focused on the following three points: (1) algorithms for controlling traffic signal lamp period at single intersections; (2) route recommendation algorithms for a single vehicle; and (3) route recommendation algorithms based on the traffic history experienced by a vehicle. These studies, however, have the following limitations: (1) the evaluation factor is singular, and therefore, cannot fully express the advantages and disadvantages of the route selection method; (2) real-time route selection is absent; (3) route selection for a single vehicle is ineffective in avoiding local congestion. In view of these problems, this paper proposes an improved quantum genetic algorithm (IQGA) to solve the problem of traffic congestion in route selection. The algorithm includes the following: (1) proposing a quantum chromosome initialization strategy (QCIS) to convert and code real traffic conditions and to construct quantum chromosomes based on the quantum coding for vehicles and roads; (2) proposing a quantum chromosome mapping algorithm (QCMA) to transform the calculation bits of quantum chromosomes into the results of route selection for different vehicles; (3) proposing a contemporary optimal solution decision strategy (COSDS) to judge the current route selection results; (4) proposing a quantum update algorithm (QUA) to update and iterate the quantum coding of the population. Two types of experiments were conducted in this study: (1) Artificial traffic networks with different scales were designed to carry out comparative experiments between IQGA and other algorithms. The experimental results show that IGQA has better robustness and adaptive ability. (2) Comparative experiments on an actual urban traffic network verified the high-performance and real-time performance capabilities of IQGA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To test the tunability of charge transfer (CT)-based BODIPY photosensitizers in generating singlet oxygen (1Δ g), twelve meso -phenyl-BODIPY (donor-acceptor) type compounds have been synthesized and fully characterized, in which the phenyl moiety is modified with respective 0, 1, 2 and 3 methoxy groups to increase its electron-donating ability. The UV-Vis absorption spectra, fluorescence emission spectra, fluorescence quantum yield, fluorescence lifetime, excited triplet state formation, and singlet oxygen formation properties are measured. DFT quantum chemical computation is also carried out to explain the experiments. The occurrence of intra-molecular CT is confirmed by UV-Vis absorption, fluorescence properties and quantum chemical computation. The triplet excited state formation is evidenced by laser flash photolysis technique. The quantitative photosensitized singlet oxygen formation is demonstrated by DPBF (diphenylisobenzofuran) chemical trapping method. This type of BODIPY CT photosensitizers show good tunability in generating singlet oxygen (1Δ g). When the number of methoxy group on the donor is increased (so that CT is enhanced), the efficiency of singlet oxygen generation becomes higher from 0.070 to 0.30. When solvent polarity is increased (CT is also enhanced), the efficiency of singlet oxygen generation is also increased significantly. The increase in singlet oxygen generation is accompanied by the decrease in fluorescence quantum yield and fluorescence lifetime values. These facts show that a higher CT efficiency in a simple phenyl-BODIPY donor-acceptor conjugate can lead to significant higher quantum yield of singlet oxygen generation. These results are useful in designing novel CT-based heavy-atom-free photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy of tumor. Graphical abstract Singlet oxygen formation yield of (CH 3 O) n -phenyl-BODIPY donor-acceptor conjugate is proportional to the number of methoxy group. Image 1 Highlights • Eight new charge transfer (CT)-based BODIPY photosensitizers are synthesized. • The CT efficiency is adjusted by adding 0 to 4 methoxys on meso-phenyl. • The increase in either the number of methoxys or solvent polarity enhances 1O 2 formation. • Higher CT efficiency favors higher singlet oxygen generation quantum yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Bulk Al-doped carboxymethyl cellulose aerogels were fabricated via a facile slow-gel method and freeze-drying technology. • Compared with pure silica aerogels, the Al-doped carboxymethyl cellulose aerogels possed better weight-bearing capacity. • The Al-doped CMC aerogels exhibited excellent flame retardancy and could be rated V-0 regarding UL-94 testing. Abstract Bulk Al-doped carboxymethyl cellulose aerogels were obtained via a facile slow-gel method and freeze-drying technology. In this method, the cross-linker Al3+ was released slowly and completely with enough d -(+)-gluconic acid δ -lactone as a sustained-release agent. Depended on controlled releasing of Al3+, the reaction speed between Al3+ and carboxyl groups was controlled and Al3+ was well-distributed in the aerogels. The coordination type between Al3+ and carboxymethyl cellulose was the bidentate bridging coordination. By adjusting the amount of Al3+ and the degree of substitution of carboxymethyl cellulose, interconnected network and closely packed sheet-like structure presented, respectively. According to the nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms, the aerogels were a kind of mesoporous material with pore blocking or cavitation. In addition, the aerogels exhibited outstanding weight-bearing capacity and excellent flame retardancy. This work provided a valuable reference for doping metal ions into polysaccharide aerogels and expanding the application fields of aerogels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Retrograde type A aortic dissection (RTAD) is a rare but life-threatening complication after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for type B aortic dissection (TBAD). A graft inversion technique was applied to distal anastomosis in total arch replacement for this complicated dissection. We reviewed our results of the processing for this serious complication. The aim is to evaluate the feasibility of this technology.Methods: From January 2013 to December 2017, 20 patients (80% male, mean age 50.9 ± 9.5 years) with retrograde type A aortic dissection after thoracic endovascular aortic repair for type B aortic dissection were scheduled for surgical treatment at our center. All patients underwent an ascending aorta and total aortic arch replacement procedure. The 20 patients were divided into two groups, 1 group involved 9 patients underwent surgery using stepwise technique; the graft inversion technique was performed in the other group containing the remaining 11 patients. The postoperative variables, including cardiopulmonary bypass time, the circulatory arrest time, the aortic cross clamp time, were analyzed. Meanwhile we also analyzed the postoperative mortality and complications to evaluate the early and mid-term outcomes of surgical treatment for RTAD after TEVAR.Results: In-hospital mortality was 10% (2 of 20 patients). No patient developed postoperative paraplegia, renal failure, stroke, or distal anastomotic bleeding. Two patients developed renal insufficiency, one developed neurologic insufficiency, and one developed pulmonary infection, all of which were managed accordingly. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, and circulatory arrest time were significantly shorter in the graft inversion group than in the stepwise group (165.8 ± 37.9 min versus 206.1 ± 46.8 min, p<0.05; 34.5 ± 5.6 min versus 42.4 ± 9.5 min, p<0.05, respectively). The 18 survivors had a mean follow-up of 25.8 ± 18.2 months, and all patients remained alive and well.Conclusion: Graft inversion can enable a secure distal anastomosis under good surgical exposure, resulting in reduced durations of CPB, and circulatory arrest for RTAD after TEVAR. Surgical treatment could be a safe alternative for treatment of this patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, it has been witnessed a boom in the development of mobile networks and a great increase in the computing ability of mobile devices. The rapid booming in client requests lead to some new challenges for real-time on-demand data broadcasting: (1) the dynamic diversity of the data characteristics; (2) the dynamic diversity of real-time clients' demand greatly increase the volume of hot-spot data (the most access data); and (3) the clients' demands for high service quality. To date, the current research has focused on the fixed-channel models (i.e. the bandwidth and number of channels are unchangeable) and algorithms. To adapt to the characteristics of the real-time requests, an optimized channel split method (OCSM) is proposed for automatic channel split and data allocation in this paper. The experiments undertaken in this study included two aspects: (1) determining the different strategies under different data sizes and deadlines; and (2) verifying the validity of the automatic channel split and data allocation through a series of experiments with the general performance matrics. The results show that the proposed method outperforms some of the state-of-the-art scheduling algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban traffic congestion is a common problem that affects many cities around the world. In this paper, an actual urban traffic simulation model (AUTM) for traffic congestion predicting and avoiding is proposed, which includes three key components: the map and transfer (MT) conversion method, the optimized spatial evolution rules, and a congestion-avoidance routing algorithm. Three key techniques are combined in our proposed model: (1) The MT conversion method is proposed to get actual urban cellular spaces, which apply the optimized spatial evolution rules to simulate the vehicular dynamics better. (2) AUTM is proposed for simulating traffic congestion and predicting the effect of adding overpasses and roadblocks. (3) The congestion-avoidance routing algorithm is proposed for vehicles to dynamically update their routes toward their destinations, which can achieve traffic optimization in urban simulations. This paper presents the results of applying this novel model to a large-scale real-world case in different urban traffic congestion situations. Extensive experimental simulations in various actual cities have been carried out. Our results in the extreme case are encouraging: The prediction accuracy of traffic congestions is almost 89%, and the variance of prediction road density is less than 0.15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel fiber-optic hydrogen sensor including Pt/WO 3 sensing material with a microporous structure is proposed and experimentally demonstrated with improved performance. The proposed Pt/WO 3 sensing material is realized by introducing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as templates. The mesoporous structure of the ZIF-8 template improves the reactive sites of hydrogen sensitive materials with hydrogen. Hydrogen sensors were fabricated by combining the synthesized material with Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) and the performance of hydrogen sensors was investigated. The experimental results show that the hydrogen sensitivity of the FBG with ZIF-8 synthesized Pt/WO 3 has been increased to 0.075 pm/ppm, which is twice that without ZIF-8 synthetization. The stability and the response speed are also significantly improved. The introduction of microporous MOFs templates into Pt/WO 3 sensing material will greatly accelerate the wide application of Pt/WO 3 -based fiber optic hydrogen sensors on hydrogen leakage detection. • A promising porous Pt/WO 3 synthesized based on ZIF-8 is proposed and demonstrated. • The porous structure provides more active sites and diffusion channels for H 2. • The sensor coated with the porous Pt/WO 3 showed excellent response sensitivity. • The porous Pt/WO 3 sensor exhibited excellent response efficiency and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data broadcasting has become the preferred method to dispense data to a large number of mobile users. Current researches on on-demand data broadcast mainly propose algorithms based on a single broadcast channel or fixed multi-channel, i.e., fixed channel model. As a result of the dynamic diversity of data characteristics and client demands, the fixed channel model faces significant challenges in parallel broadcast diverse data. Further, the dynamic adjustment of the broadcast channel (dynamic channel model) based on client requests is favorable to service quality because it determines the number and sizes of channels that adapt to client demand in real-time. However, the dynamic channel model has not yet been thoroughly investigated for on-demand wireless data broadcasts. Accordingly, in this paper, a channel dynamic adjustment method (CDAM) is proposed. The innovations behind CDAM lie in three aspects. First, a data item priority evaluation and selection algorithm (S-RxW/SL) is proposed for evaluating the priority of data items and selecting the high priority data items to be considered in a broadcast cycle. Second, a weight and size average cluster algorithm (WSAC) is proposed for mining data item characteristics and clustering them. Third, based on the clustering results of WSAC, a channel splitting and data allocation algorithm (CSDA) is proposed for dynamically splitting the channel and allocating data items to the corresponding sub-channel. We compare the proposed method with some state-of-the-art scheduling methods through simulation. The theoretical findings and simulation results reveal that significantly better request loss rate (LR) can be obtained by using our method as compared to its alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We synthesized three 1,3,5,7-tetramethyl-BODIPY ( 1a , 2a , 3a ) and three 3,5-dimethyl-BODIPY ( 1b , 2b , 3b ) photosensitizers, in which the meso position was modified by different para -aminophenyl groups. The singlet oxygen generation and photophysical properties of the BODIPYs were studied by UV-vis absorption spectra, fluorescence emission spectra methods in various solvents. It was found that these BODIPY derivatives were environment-sensitive and fluorescent photosensitizers, which show high efficiency for generating singlet oxygen in medium polar environments but little photoactivity in polar and non polar solvents. In the mean time, they are highly fluorescent in nonpolar solvents but much less emissive in polar solvents, ICT emission occurs in medium polar solvents and correlated with singlet oxygen formation efficiency. The results are explained by PCT (photoinduced charge transfer) mechanism. The presence of the methyl groups at 1 and 7 positions disables the rotation of the phenyl ring, and therefore, the corresponding BODIPY 1a , 2a , and 3a were characterized by significant higher singlet oxygen generation efficiency and fluorescence quantum yield than that of BODIPY 1b , 2b , and 3b . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban traffic congestion becomes a severe problem for many cities all around the world. How to alleviate traffic congestions in real cities is a challenging problem. Benefited from concise and efficient evolution rules, the Biham, Middleton and Levine (BML) model has a great potential to provide favorable results in the dynamic and uncertain traffic flows within an urban network. In this paper, an enhanced BML model (EBML) is proposed to effectively simulate the urban traffic where the timing scheduling optimization algorithm (TSO) based on the quantum particle swarm optimization is creatively introduced to optimize the timing scheduling of traffic light. The main contributions include that: (1) The actual urban road network with different two-way multi-lane roads is firstly mapped into the theoretical lattice space of BML. And the corresponding updating rules of each lattice site are proposed to control vehicle dynamics; (2) compared with BML, a much deeper insight into the phase transition and traffic congestions is provided in EBML. And the interference among different road capacities on forming traffic congestions is elaborated; (3) based on the scheduling simulation of EBML, TSO optimizes the timing scheduling of traffic lights to alleviate traffic congestions. Extensive comparative experiments reveal that TSO can achieve excellent optimization performances in real cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

meso -phenyl and meso -naphthyl substituted BODIPY derivatives were synthesized as singlet oxygen photosensitizers. Strengthening the electron donating ability of the phenyl or naphthyl by attaching OCH 3 or OH group makes these BODIPYs efficiently generate singlet oxygen in polar solvents accompanied by strong fluorescence quenching. The BODIPYs exhibited higher fluorescence quantum yields in non polar solvents, but became much less emissive in polar solvents. The results are explained by the involvement of photoinduced electron or charge transfer process in the lowest lying excited singlet state (S 1 ). These results indicate that these BODIPY dyes can be potential singlet oxygen photosensitizers for the application in PDT and theranostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urban traffic signal control system is complex, non-linear and non-equilibrium in real conditions. The existing methods could not satisfy the requirement of real-time and dynamic control. In order to solve these difficulties and challenges, this paper proposes a novel Multi-Intersection Model (MIM) based on Cellular Automata (CA) and a Multi-Intersection Signal Timing Plan Algorithm (MISTPA), which can reduce the delay time at each intersection and effectively alleviate the traffic pressure on each intersection in the urban traffic network. Our work is divided into several parts: (1) a multi-intersection model based on CA is defined to build the dynamic urban traffic network; (2) MISTPA is proposed, which truly reflects the real-time demand degree to green time of the traffic flow at each intersection. The MISTPA is composed Single Intersection Volume Algorithm (SIVA), Single-Lane Volume Algorithm (SLVA) and single intersection signal timing plan algorithm (SISTPA). Extensive experiments show that when the saturation is greater than 0.3, the MIM and the MISTPA achieve good performance, and can significantly reduce the vehicle delay time at each intersection. The average delay time of the traffic flow at each intersection can obviously be reduced. Finally, a practical case study demonstrates that the proposed model and the corresponding algorithm are correct and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of social network analysis, network evolution and event detection are the main current challenges. To meet them, current research work proposed many different models based on different network evolutions, and then evaluated the simulation results with different similarity indexes. However, the previous work usually had three problems: (1) Each method is only designed for a particular network; (2) There are many network statistics, so the evaluation on the performances of network models lacks an unified platform; (3) Without considering the temporal information, it is hard to track the network evolution and detect events. This paper proposes an event detection method for social networks based on link prediction, which can also evaluate the volatility of different networks. The main contributions are as follows. (1) The volatility of the network evolution can be effectively reflected on the similarity index corresponding to a good link prediction performance. (2) Inspired by link prediction, a similarity computing algorithm ( SimC ) is proposed to compute the similarity of networks. (3) Based on the output of SimC , the volatility of network evolution is evaluated and an event detection algorithm ( EventD ) is proposed. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively solve the problem of tracking network evolutions and detecting events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we focus on backward simulation of the CIR process. The purpose is to solve the memory requirement issue of the Least Squares Monte Carlo method when pricing American options by simulation. The concept of backward simulation is presented and it is classified into two types. Under the framework of the second type backward simulation, we seek the solutions for the existing CIR schemes. Specifically, we propose forward–backward simulation approaches for Alfonsi’s two implicit schemes, the fixed Euler schemes and the exact scheme. The proposed schemes are numerically tested and compared in pricing American options under the Heston model and the stochastic interest rate model. Some numerical properties such as the convergence order of the explicit–implicit Euler schemes, the storage requirement estimation of the forward–backward exact scheme and its computing time comparison with the squared Bessel bridge are also tested. Finally, the pros and cons of the related backward simulation schemes are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Recently, social networks have witnessed a massive surge in popularity. A key issue in social network research is network evolution analysis, which assumes that all the autonomous nodes in a social network follow uniform evolution mechanisms. However, different nodes in a social network should have different evolution mechanisms to generate different edges. This is proposed as the underlying idea to ensure the nodes’ evolution diversity in this paper. Our approach involves identifying the micro-level node evolution that generates different edges by introducing the existing link prediction methods from the perspectives of nodes. We also propose the edge generation coefficient to evaluate the extent to which an edge's generation can be explained by a link prediction method. To quantify the nodes’ evolution diversity, we define the diverse evolution distance. Furthermore, a diverse node adaption algorithm is proposed to indirectly analyze the evolution of the entire network based on the nodes’ evolution diversity. Extensive experiments on disparate real-world networks demonstrate that the introduction of the nodes’ evolution diversity is important and beneficial for analyzing the network evolution. The diverse node adaption algorithm outperforms other state-of-the-art link prediction algorithms in terms of both accuracy and universality. The greater the nodes’ evolution diversity, the more obvious its advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

[Display omitted] • meso -RNH (R = alkyl and phenyl) substituted BODIPY are prepared. • meso -RNH leads to large blue shift of both absorption and emission wavelength. • meso -RNH induces big decrease in fluorescence quantum yield and lifetime values. • RNH leads to significant increase in singlet oxygen formation quantum yield. • Photoinduced charge transfer (PCT) mechanism is responsible for the observations. meso -RNH (R = C 3 H 7 , C 4 H 9 , PhCH 2 , H, and Ph) substituted BODIPY compounds have been prepared to examine their photophysical properties and photosensitizing abilities. We have measured the UV–vis absorption, steady state and time resolved fluorescence, excited triplet state formation using laser flash photolysis, singlet oxygen generation ability using chemical trapping method. The results show that the presence of meso -RNH leads to large blue shift of absorption and emission wavelength, remarkable decrease in fluorescence quantum yield and lifetime values, and significant increase in singlet oxygen formation quantum yield. Quantum chemical calculation also reveals the photoinduced charge transfer (PCT) mechanism. We conclude that property changes are due to: 1) S 0 and S 1 geometry, 2) ground state structural isomerization, and 3) intramolecular PCT. These results and mechanisms are helpful for designing new functional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Super-microporous micelle-templated platinum on silica catalysts were successfully prepared by an improved one-pot procedure, using a water/acetonitrile/ n -dodecylamine mixture. The catalyst showed high surface area and narrow pore size and was further characterized by powder X-ray diffraction and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The unique super-microporous materials were proven to be highly active for the microwave-assisted hydrosilylation reaction of terminal alkenes or alkynes using dichloromethylsilane as silicon source. The super-microporous structure was beneficial for the control of hydrosilylation regioselectivity, as the selectivity to the β-adduct reached 99%. Moreover, the catalyst could be easily recovered by simple filtration and re-used seven times without appreciable loss of activity and selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How can we discover and estimate major events in complex social networks? Even with ever enlarging networks and data scale? Event detection and evaluation in social networks provide an effective solution, which has become the critical basis for many real applications, such as crisis management and decision making. The existing event detection methods mainly focus on text analysis that is limited in social media content and graphic feature statistic that needs calculate vast variables. Can we find an efficient way for generalized social networks with limited topology information? In this paper, a novel hybrid quantum swarm intelligence indexing method (HQSII) from the perspective of link prediction is proposed for the first time, which includes an optimal weight algorithm (OWA) and a fluctuation detection algorithm (FDA). The innovations behind HQSII lie in three aspects: (1) The mixed index that can universally describe the social network evolutions is proposed firstly, which explores the cooperation of different independent similarity indexes. OWA is further proposed to determine the optimal mixed index that achieves higher link prediction accuracy and better network evolution description than other independent and mixed similarity indexes. (2) To better avoid the interferences of routine network evolution fluctuations, the otherness of micro node evolutions is considered into link prediction. FDA is further proposed to quantify the abnormal fluctuations caused by events. (3) Based on OWA and FDA, HQSII is proposed for all the generalized social networks, which detects events by discovering abnormal fluctuations and evaluates events by analyzing fluctuation trends. Extensive experiments on theoretical and real-world social networks show that HQSII can accurately detect events and quantitatively evaluate event impacts in social networks with single and multiple events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exact solution and heuristic solution have their own strengths and weaknesses on solving the Vehicle Routing Problems with Time Windows (VRPTW). This paper proposes a hybrid Column Generation Algorithm with Metaheuristic Optimization (CGAMO) to overcome their weaknesses. Firstly, a Modified Labelling Algorithm (MLA) in the sub-problem of path searching is analysed. And a search strategy in CGAMO based on the demand of sub-problem is proposed to improve the searching efficiency. While putting the paths found in the sub-problem into the main problems of CGAMO, the iterations may fall into endless loops. To avoid this problem and keep the main problems in a reasonable size, two conditions on saving the old paths in the main problem are used. These conditions enlarge the number of constraints considered in the iterations to strengthen the limits of dual variables. Through analysing the sub-problem, we can find many useless paths that have no effect on the objective function. Secondly, in order to reduce the number of useless paths and improve the efficiency, this paper proposes a heuristic optimization strategy of CGAMO for dual variables. It is supposed to accelerate the solving speed from the view of on the dual problem. Finally, extensive experiments show that CGAMO achieves a better performance than other state-of-the-art methods on solving VRPTW. The comparative experiments also present the parameters sensitivity analysis, including the different effects of MLA in the different path selection strategies, the characteristics and the applicable scopes of the two path-keeping conditions in the main problem. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Supported-adsorbents growing on the substrate in situ are equipped with the advantages of high adsorption capacity, excellent regeneration performance, and adaptability to complex wastewater. However, the effects of substrate on the adsorption properties of supported-adsorbent are rarely considered, which will hinder its development and scale-up applications. In this study, the influences of different substrates (Ti, Mo, W, CC) on the Ag+ adsorption behavior of supported-MoS 2 adsorbents were investigated. The adsorption kinetics, adsorption mechanism, and the renewability of these supported-MoS 2 were compared orderly. As a result, MoS 2 grown on a tungsten substrate (MoS 2 –W) exhibits a remarkable adsorption capacity for Ag+ (1.98 mg cm−2 and 598.80 mg g−1), which is 6.38–33 times more than the other three supported-MoS 2. Moreover, the MoS 2 –W also possesses an ultrahigh distribution coefficient (24.80 mL cm−2) for Ag+, and the selection coefficient can reach 1984. XRD and electrochemical characterization analysis indicated that Ag+ adsorption performance of supported-MoS 2 is positively correlated with the degree of its amorphous structure. Substrate W with the terrific electrical properties which may facilitate the disordered growth of MoS 2 , resulting in more active sites exposed, and endow MoS 2 –W with outstanding Ag+ capture performance. Finally, the supported-MoS 2 retains a high removal efficiency of Ag+ after 5 cycles of adsorption and desorption. This study provides a novel perspective for promoting the practical application of supported-sorbents to recycle heavy metals. [Display omitted] • The substrate effect of supported-adsorbent for removing Ag+ has been studied. • The Ag+ adsorption mechanisms and selectivity of different MoS 2 were compared. • W substrate spurs the electrons transfer and transformed the crystal phase of MoS 2. • Supported-adsorbent showed excellent cycle stability owing to structural advantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for preparing hydrophobic silica aerogel with kaolin as raw material and dried at ambient pressure is proposed. The process of preparing the aerogel consists of three stages including activation of kaolin, preparation of wet silica gel and hydrophobic modification. The effects of hydrochloric acid concentration on the physical properties and structures of the silica aerogel are investigated. Effects of removing Na + from the solvent solution on the structure and properties of aerogel are discussed. The aerogel obtained with kaolin has comparable structure and property to those prepared with other more expensive silica sources. The newly proposed method is expected to simplify the manufacturing technique, to shorten the production time and to reduce the costs of silica aerogel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to solve the neutral-point voltage unbalancing problem for three-level inverters, this paper proposes a method to balance the neutral-point voltage for three-level inverters with variable modulation wave offset sinusoidal pulse-width modulation (SPWM) control. Based on the mathematical expressions of neutral-point voltage unbalancing, the factors are studied, which affect the fluctuation of neutral-point voltage. Theoretically the mathematical expressions of the neutral-point voltage with the proposed method are derived, and the mathematical relationship between the fluctuation of neutral-point voltage and the adjusting offset of modulation wave is studied. This proposed method realizes controlling the neutral-point voltage balance by dynamically calculating the offset superimposed to the modulation wave based on SPWM (DCOSPWM). This DCOSPWM method is very simple, which has good steady-state performance and is easy for digital implementation. The simulation results verify the correctness of the theoretical analysis in this paper, and the feasibility and effectiveness of this method is verified by the experiments in the experimental platform of neutral point clamped three-level inverters based on digital signal processor (DSP)-complex programmable logic device (CPLD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discontinuous current mode boost power factor (PF) correction converter features a zero-current turn-on for the switch, no reverse recovery in diode, and constant frequency operations. However, when the duty cycle is constant in a line cycle, the input current contains rich third harmonic which has a phase difference of π with respect to the fundamental component. The harmonic results in not only a lower PF but also larger peak and RMS current values of the main power components, which lead to a higher conduction and switching turn-off loss. In this paper, a variable duty cycle control scheme is proposed to make the input current contain only third harmonic which is in phase with fundamental component, while remaining the same PF at a certain input voltage as that of constant duty cycle control. A method of fitting the duty cycle is further proposed for simplifying the circuit implementation. The efficiency is improved as the critical inductance increases and the peak and RMS current values consequently decrease. The proposed method also achieves an output voltage ripple or the output storage capacitance reduction. The experimental results from a prototype of 120 W are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current research on the resource-constrained multi-project scheduling problem (RCMPSP) mainly focuses on the constrained resources or other single uncertainty factor that cannot satisfy the practical need of enterprise management. This paper addresses the dynamic uncertain multi-project scheduling problem (DUMPSP), which alleviates the above problem of RCMPSP by synthesizing the analysis of uncertainty, sensitivity, and lean management of resources and durations. An outer-inner uncertainty fuzzy cellular automata algorithm (OIUFCA) is proposed to solve DUMPSP. The problem is divided into several parts: (1) fuzzy cell is employed to describe the project cell and process cell in DUMPSP; (2) a fuzzy outer cellular automata (FOCA) model is defined to solve the project scheduling of DUMPSP, and a fuzzy inner cellular automata (FICA) model is constructed to solve the process scheduling; (3) multi-level feedback strategy (MFS) is further proposed to deal with the multi-level dual-stage optimization problem of DUMPSP. Besides, FOCA and FICA model execute co-evolution under the control of MFS. Extensive experiments are carried out to evaluate the performances of OIUFCA with other state-of-the-art algorithms. It is revealed that OIUFCA achieves a better performance in success rate and convergence speed in solving DUMPSP, and OIUFCA has a good solution under different conditions of uncertainty, sensibility, and lean management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathwise method is one of the approaches to calculate the option price sensitivities by Monte Carlo simulation. Under the general diffusion process, we usually use the Euler scheme to simulate the path of the underlying asset, which requires small time spaces to assure the convergence. The adjoint method can be used to accelerate the calculation of the Greeks in such case. However, it needs to store the intermediate information along the path. In this paper, we propose to use the block simulation to further accelerate the calculation. Block simulation can be seen as an extension of the common Monte Carlo simulation. It is simple to implement, without any extra work and loss in accuracy. It also has the flexibility on the block division, fitting to the computation environment. Moreover, we use the extended forward-path method along with the real time calculation strategy to do the memory reduction so that it can be combined with the adjoint method better. The numerical tests show our method can accelerate the adjoint method by several times. Our method is relatively even more efficient in the high-dimensional case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with conventional data broadcasting, on-demand data broadcasting is adaptive and real-time, which can better reflect the actual needs of mobile users. Current researches do not consider the attribute of data item size, and the constantly changing characteristics of data item size in on-demand data broadcasting is non-ignorable. This paper introduces the split strategies and backpacks theories into on-demand data broadcasting scheduling to deal with the inconsistencies of data item size, and proposes two scheduling models under different split strategies: (1) equal split scheduling model ES-LxRxW, which proposes the equal splitting strategy (ES) and a deadline adjust strategy. (2) Unequal split scheduling model US-LxRxW, which proposes the unequal split strategy (US) and two effective scheduling algorithms priority first (PF) and propriety and bandwidth first (PxBF). Extensive experiments shows that ES-LxRxW and US-LxRxW can both improve bandwidth utilization and dynamically adjust to the real-time situation of data item size, which takes into account data item size, bandwidth, cycle and scheduling priority of data item. The two proposed scheduling models could reach or outperform the other state-of-the-art scheduling algorithms without considering data item size in the performance of request drop ratio. US-LxRxW can also better reflect the real-time changes of data items than ES-LxRxW, and the proposed PF and PxBF algorithms can effectively improve the bandwidth utilization and reduce the split times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The forward-path method is one of the effective memory reduction approaches in pricing multi-asset American-style options by the Monte Carlo simulation. However, when the underlying assets follow a general diffusion process, it would be difficult to apply this method. In this paper we propose a simple and effective method, which applies the Milstein–Taylor explicit and implicit schemes and makes it possible to apply the forward-path method under general diffusion processes. It preserves the advantage of high reduction with relatively low cost of the forward-path method. Moreover, it works as a plug-in and one can flexibly substitute the schemes with different ones for different problems. It is proven that our method can conveniently restore the simulated path with strong convergence order . The numerical results indicate our method has high pricing accuracy and efficiency. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Streptomyces virginiae strain W18 was screened from soil, which exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against fish pathogens. Safety assays showed that strain W18 had no toxicity to fish. Additionally, strain W18 promoted the growth performance of Carassius auratus after feeding in feed mixed with bacteria for one month. Moreover, the activities of AKP, ACP, and SOD in the serum of C. auratus were significantly increased, while the activity of LZM did not greatly change. To detect the expression levels of the genes related to immune factors in the livers, kidneys, and spleens of C. auratus , qRT-PCR was performed. The expression levels of KEAP1, IL-8, TNF-α, IL-β, and C3 were upregulated in all three organs compared to the control, but LZM expression was downregulated in the kidney. The challenge experiment illustrated that the probability of infection with Aeromonas veronii was reduced by 60% and 40% when C. auratus was fed with two different doses of strain W18 in advance. The whole genome of strain W18 was sequenced, and the gene clusters of secondary metabolites in strain W18 were analyzed by AntiSMASH. The results showed that strain W18 contained a total of 26 gene clusters, and functional annotation analysis was conducted by using the non-coding databases COG and KEGG. All of the above results indicated that the use of strain W18 as a feed additive could enhance the resistance of C. auratus toward pathogenic bacteria and disease. In conclusion, an antagonistic strain (W18) against fish pathogenic bacteria was obtained in this study, which is of great significance for finding new treatment methods for bacterial diseases in the aquaculture industry. • A new Streptomyces virginiae strain W18 was isolated and it showed broad-spectrum bacteriostatic effect against fish pathogens. • For the first time, it was found that strain W18 could improve the immunity and growth performance of C. auratus , and also enhance the resistance of C. auratus to Aeromonas veronii. • Strain W18 contained a large number of gene clusters related to antimicrobial activity as revealed by genomic analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ChS-Cur polymeric micelles were prepared by radical polymerization. • The micelles showed a good dispersion stability as its high negative zeta potential. • In vitro cytotoxicity tests showed that the ChS-Cur micelles were non-cytotoxic. • The micelles micelles had redox sensitivity for drug release at tumor sites. Chondroitin sulfate-curcumin (ChS-Cur) polymeric micelles derived from oxidized Chondroitin sulfate (ChS), Curcumin (Cur) and Bis-acrylamide cysteine (BAC) were prepared by radical polymerization. The morphology, Zeta potential, cytotoxic and drug release behavior were explored. ChS-Cur polymeric micelles hold a spherical structure with a particle size of about 250 nm, and micelles showed a good dispersion stability. Release studies showed that the controlled release profile of drug was obtained and the micelles had redox sensitivity. In vitro cytotoxicity studies showed that the ChS-Cur micelles were non-cytotoxic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The platinum (Pt) particle electrocatalysts were fabricated by a surfactant-free, electro-deposition technique in the cyclic voltammetric mode for electro-oxidation of ammonia in aqueous solutions. The hierarchical Pt nanoparticles with various morphologies, including sheet-, flower-, prickly sphere- and cauliflower-like shapes, were obtained by controlling the electrodepositing parameters. The amount of Pt loading was determined by an inductively coupled plasma method, and the electrocatalytic activity of the prepared nano-Pt electrocatalysts for the ammonia oxidation was characterized by cyclic voltammetry. The results showed that there is a remarkable effect of the surface morphology of Pt particles on the electrocatalytic activity. In particular, the hierarchical Pt particles have a much higher electrocatalytic activity for the ammonia oxidation than the smooth, spherical Pt particles. The improved electrocatalytic activity is attributed not only to the large electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) achieved, but also to the high electrocatalytic activity per unit ECSA. Electro-deposition technique provides a promising alternative to fabricate high-performance electrocatalysts for oxidation of ammonia in aqueous solutions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Submicron-sized cuprous oxide crystallites was prepared by electrodeposition, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) was introduced to improve the dispersity of crystallites. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) were applied to characterize its crystal structure and morphology. Based on the analysis, it was found that PEG can affect the growth mode of cuprous oxide crystallites, which improves of the dispersity of the crystallites. The growth of cuprous oxide crystallites without PEG presents obvious aggregation dominant, while diffusion becomes the dominant mechanism when PEG is introduced into the electrolyte. The photo transmission character of cuprous oxide crystallites was measured by UV–vis spectrophotometer, and the calculated band gap energy of which is approximately 2.17eV. The photoelectrochemical property of the crystallites was also characterized with the current–potential responses to a linear potentiodynamic scan under chopped illumination, and it is found that the photocurrent of the cuprous oxide crystallites electrodeposited with PEG is obviously larger than the one without PEG. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Three conventional complexing agents, including lactic acid, citric acid and EDTA, are applied in the electrodeposition of microcrystalline cuprous oxide (Cu2O) film on indium tin oxide glass substrate. Both scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction have been performed to characterize the morphology and texture of microcrystalline Cu2O film. It is found that the stability constant of copper-based complex compound can obviously influence the deposition overpotential of Cu2O, and the overpotential can significantly alter the growth priority of different planes, which results in oriented growth of Cu2O grains. The quantitative relationships between the stability constant and the deposition overpotential of different complexing agents, as well as the relationship between the overpotential and the formation energy of microcrystalline cuprous oxide''s (110), (111) and (200) planes are calculated, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]