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High-temperature proton exchange membranes (HTPEMs) based on arginine-modified phosphoric acid-doped polybenzimidazole (Arginine-PBI-PA) and poly(tetrafluoroethylene) phosphoric acid-doped polybenzimidazole (PTFE-Arginine-PBI-PA) were fabricated and characterized for fuel cell applications. Arginine as filler was used to prepare HTPEMs for the first time, and the Arginine-PBI-PA membrane exhibited an excellent proton conducting ability with 24.1 mS cm−1 at 160 °C while maintaining mechanical strength. Furthermore, Arginine-PBI-PA composite membrane was also appropriate for membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs), and it exhibited better fuel cell performances (0.68 V@400 mA cm−2) compared with the PBI-PA membranes prepared. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation revealed that the better electrochemical properties of Arginine-PBI-PA membranes over PBI-PA membranes were ascribed to the strong interactions between the basic sites and carboxyl groups of arginine and PA molecules, respectively. In addition, the higher proton conductivity for Arginine-PBI-PA membranes was attributed to the formation of a tighter H-bonding network and the interaction between arginine non-protonated oxygen (O) and PA protons (HPA). Experimental investigation and molecular dynamics simulation of novel arginine/PBI composite membranes for high temperature PEM fuel cells [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients who underwent knee joint arthroplasty were at risk of venous thromboembolic events (VTEs), however, less studies were conducted to demonstrate the epidemiology and risk factors of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). Objective of this study was to explore the incidence and prognostic factors of DVT after UKA. Methods: Patients who underwent primary UKA from December 2018 to June 2022 were recruited in this study. Demographic characteristics, operation related variables and laboratory index were extracted and analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to detect the optimum cut-off value for variables of interest. Univariate and multivariate logistic analysis were performed to identify risk factors of DVT. Results: 351 UKAs with a mean age of 65.4 ± 7.1 years were reviewed. After 12.9 ± 11.2 months follow-up, 35 DVTs were confirmed which indicating an incidence of 9.9%. The results showed that occupation (agricultural laborer) (P = 0.008), disease duration > 8.5 years (P = 0.035), operation time > 169 min (P = 0.003), intraoperative blood loss > 102 ml (P < 0.001), BMI > 26.8 kg/m 2 (P = 0.001), preoperative D-dimer > 0.29 mg/L (P = 0.001), prothrombin time < 10.7 s (P = 0.033) and INR < 0.98 (P = 0.032) between DVT and Non-DVT group were significantly different. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed intraoperative blood loss > 102 ml (OR, 3.707; P, 0.001), BMI > 26.8 kg/m 2 (OR, 4.664; P, 0.004) and D-dimer > 0.29 mg/L (OR, 2.882; P, 0.009) were independent risk factors of DVT after UKA. Conclusion: The incidence of DVT in the present study was 9.9%, extensive intraoperative blood loss, advanced BMI and high level of D-dimer would increase the risk of lower extremity thrombosis by 2–4 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Four novel D-A dye sensitizers of polymeric metal complexes were synthesized and investigated in Dye-sensitized solar cells. [•] Compared with polymer P1 and P2, P3 and P4 show a lower LUMO due to the change of molecular composition unit. [•] The light harvesting efficiency and photogenerated current of cadmium polymer complexes is better than zinc polymer complexes. [•] The four polymeric metal complexes show excellent thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four polymeric metal complexes ( P1- P4) based on 1,10-phenanthroline metal complexes and alkylfluorene or alkoxybenzene were synthesized by the Heck coupling reaction and were developed for dye-sensitized solar cell applications. The target dyes use alkoxybenzene or alkylfluorene as the electron donor, a C=C moiety as the π linker, and the phenanthroline derivative complex was used as the electron acceptor. Bipyridine derivatives were ancillary ligands as well as providing anchoring groups. The thermal, photophysical, electrochemical and photovoltaic properties of these copolymers were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), C-V curves and I-V curves. Dye-sensitized solar cells with these polymeric metal complexes as dye sensitizers exhibited considerable power conversion efficiencies (PCE). The dyes containing alkoxybenzenes ( P3, P4) exhibited higher PCE values than the corresponding target polymers containing alkylfluorenes ( P1, P2), The dye P3 showed the maximal power conversion efficiency of 2.12 % ( Jsc = 4.91 mA/cm2, Voc = 0.69 V, FF = 62.5). In addition, the four polymers possessed excellent stabilities, and their thermal decomposition temperatures all exceeded 300 °C, indicating that these polymeric metal complexes are suitable for the fabrication processes of optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four main chain polymeric metal complexes ( P1-P4) based on 8-hydroxyquinoline metal complexes have been synthesized by the Heck coupling and characterized by gel-permeation chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton-nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetric analysis, ultraviolet-visible absorption, photoluminescence spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and cyclic voltammetry. The applications of these polymers as dye sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are also studied. The study results show that the solar cells have good device performance with power conversion efficiency of P1-P4 up to 2.17, 2.04, 2.45, and 2.18%, respectively. The highest power conversion efficiency of DSSCs is up to 2.45%, for P3 consisting of alkoxy benzene unit and Cd-metal complex under the illumination of air mass 1.5 G, 100 mW cm−2. POLYM. COMPOS., 34:1629-1639, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four novel donor-π-bridge-acceptor(D-π-A) main chain polymeric metal complexes (P1, P2, P3 and P4) as dye sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) based on Zn(II) or Cd(II) complexes with fluorene and 8-hydroxyquinoline ligand have been synthesized by the Heck coupling and characterized by FT-IR, Elemental analysis and GPC. The optical properties, thermal properties, electrochemical properties and photovoltaic properties of these polymeric metal complexes have been investigated and studied by TGA, DSC, C-V curves and I-V curves. DSSCs based on P1 and P3 show good photovoltaic performances and the corresponding power conversion efficiency (PCE) are up to 1.99 % (J = 4.59 mA cm, V = 0.68 V, FF = 0.636) and 2.05 % (J = 5.25 mA cm, V = 0.60 eV, FF = 0.65) under simulated AM 1.5 G solar irradiation (100 mW cm). Besides, they showed good stabilities with thermal decomposition Temperatures are 421, 441, 413, 385 °C, respectively, which are suitable for DSSCs. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expression and regulation of metalloproteinases-2, -9 (MMP-2, -9) and their tissue inhibitors TIMP-1,-2, -3 mRNA were studied in this experiment. In the PMSG-hCG primed pseudopregnant rat, MMP-2, -9 mRNA levels were the highest at Day 1, decreased from Day 4, and reached the minimal level at Day 8, then increased at Day 14; no significant changes were observed in TIMP-2 mRNA expression from Day 1 to Day 14; TIMP-3 mRNA expression was the lowest at Day 1, increased from Day 4, reached the maximal level at Day 8, and persisted to Day 14. TNF-α could significantly increase the expression of MMP-2, -9 and TIMP-1 mRNA in thein vitro perfused pseudopregnant CL, and decrease the expression of TIMP-3 mRNA, but had no effect on TIMP-2 mRNA expression. The results indicate that MMP-2, -9 and TIMP-1, -2, -3 might be involved in the regulation of CL function and maintenance of CL structure via their coordinated gene expression. TNF-a could inhibit luteal regression via increasing MMP-2, -9 and TIMP-1 mRNA in thein vitro perfused pseudopregnant ovary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the expression and regulation of metalloproteinases-2, -9 (MMP-2, -9) and their tissue inhibitors TIMP-1, -2, -3 mRNA. Observation of MMP-2, -9 mRNA levels in the PMSGhCG primed pseudopregnant rat; Indication there were no significant changes in TIMP-2 mRNA expression from Day 1 to Day 14; TIMP-3 mRNA expression was the lowest at Day 1; Suggestion that TNF-α can increase the expression of MMP-2, -9 and TIMP-1 mRNA in the in vitro perfused pseudopregnant CL, decrease the expression of TIMP-3 mRNA, and have no effect on TIMP-2 mRNA expression; Conclusion that MMP-2, -9 and TIMP-1, -2, -3 could be involved in the regulation of CL function and the maintenance of CL structure through their coordinated gene expression; Assertion that TNF-α could inhibit luteal regression in the in vitro perfused pseudopregnant ovary.

Objective. To explore the effect of mosaic allograft osteochondral transplantation combined with corrective osteotomy in treating osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) on ankle and knee joint function and lower limb alignment. Methods. One hundred and thirty-three OLT patients treated in our hospital between July 2015 and October 2019 were enrolled. Regarding the various surgical approaches, they were categorized into two groups, namely, A and B including 69 and 64 cases, respectively. The patients in group A were processed with mosaic allograft osteochondral transplantation combined with corrective osteotomy, and the patients in group B were processed with microfracture surgery. The Baird ankle function score and visual analog scale (VAS) were employed for evaluating the surgical efficacy and the degree of pain prior to and following surgery. The pre- and postoperative surgery-related indicators, Ankle Hindfoot Scale (AOOFAS), HSS score, lower limb alignment, and range of motion of the ankle were compared between the two groups, and changes in growth factor levels prior to and following processing were observed. Results. Overall scores were better in group A than in group B (P < 0.05). The operation length was longer in group A, the amount of intraoperative blood loss was greater, and the length of hospitalization was less than in group B. The VAS score 48 hours after surgery was also lower (P < 0.05). Postoperative AOFAS scores in group A were better, and lower limb alignment was also less than in group B (P < 0.05). The postoperative HSS score did not differ significantly between the two groups (P > 0.05). The range of plantar flexion and dorsiflexion of the ankle joint was better in group A, and the levels of endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDG), and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) were lower than those in group B (P < 0.05). The occurrence of postoperative problems did not differ between the groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion. Mosaic allograft osteochondral transplantation combined with corrective osteotomy has a high effective rate in the treatment of OLT, which can promote the healing of articular cartilage and the recovery of ankle joint functions, improve the range of motions of the ankle, and improve the lower limb alignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Ba3(PO4)2:Mn5+ phosphor shows NIR emission in NIR-II region. [•] The emission band peak is at ∼1191nm. [•] The quantum yield is above 40%. [•] The fluorescence lifetime is ∼550μs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Massive infrastructure constructions have resulted in scarcity of river sand resources. Previous studies and applications proved dune sand can partially replace river sand used in engineering to alleviate the supply and demand contradiction of river sand. However, due to the dune sand is finer, rounder and smoother than river sand, determining the appropriate proportion of dune sand for designing engineered dune sand concrete (DSC) remains challenging. To tackle this challenge, a mix design method for DSC was proposed via close packing model and mortar film thickness theory. Specifically, the close packing model was used to confirm dune sand content and sand ratio, then the dune sand and river sand were mixed to obtain engineering-standard mixed sand. The mortar film thickness theory was utilized to determine the mortar volume and to tailor the concrete slump. By proper design, the DSC achieved the 28-d compressive strengths of 50 MPa along with good workability. Increasing the thickness of the mortar film from 0.3 to 0.9 mm leads to significant changes in DSC performance. For per 0.1 mm increase in thickness, there is an average change of 14.25 mm in slump, 11.35 kg/m3 in dry density, 0.90 MPa in compressive strength at 28 d, 15.06 kg/m3 in CO2 emission, 85.3 MJ/m3 in energy consumption, and 1.2 USD/m3 in cost. The designed DSC achieved a relatively low cement intensity (CI) value of 6.23 kg/m3/MPa , implying that DSC exhibits good eco-efficiency. Therefore, the proposed hybrid design approach can guide the design of engineered DSCs with excellent mechanical properties as well as environmental and economic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical and acoustic properties of Ti2NiZ (Z = Al, Ga and In) Heusler alloys under different pressures were studied based on the second- and third-order elastic constants obtained by the ab initio calculations combined with homogeneous deformation theory. The results showed that the mechanical stability is reduced while the ductility is improved with increasing pressure for all three alloys. As the pressure increases, the acoustic velocities of these alloys increase except for the transverse acoustic velocities in ⟨110⟩ direction of Ti2NiGa and Ti2NiIn. The Debye temperature and minimum thermal conductivity were also predicted in terms of the obtained acoustic velocities, which increase with increasing pressure for all three alloys. The calculated lattice constants, band gaps and second-order elastic constants were in agreement with the available theoretical values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HTO has proven to be a cost-effective surgical procedure in the treatment of KOA, but few investigations have studied radiological changes and clinical effectiveness of OWHTO in geriatric patients. 76 patients were recruited in this retrospective study. According to the age, patients were divided into two groups (≤ 60, Group "Young"; > 60, Group "Geriatric"). Demographic data, radiological imaging and postoperative complications were analyzed. Kellgren–Lawrence grade (K–L), weight-bearing line ratio (WBLR); posterior tibial slope angle (PTS); American knee score (AKS); Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and visual analog scale (VAS) were introduced to estimate the clinical outcome of OWHTO. There were 18 male and 58 female patients in the present study with a mean age of 58.5 ± 9.2 years (ranges from 40 to 82 years); the average age was 51.4 ± 4.1 years and 67.3 ± 4.9 years for group Y and G respectively, 44.7% and 31.5% patients were older than 60 and 65 years. BMI for the 76 patients was 26.6 ± 3.2 kg/m2, and geriatric patients were more likely accompanied by one or more comorbidities (70.6 vs. 45.2%). There were 34 and 42 patients in group Geriatric and group Young respectively, and no significant difference of MPTA, WBLR, PTS and WOMAC, VAS, AKS and ROM between the two group (P > 0.05) were found. After more than a two-year follow-up period, postoperative WBLR, AKS, WOMAC and VAS were much more desired than preoperative, and no significant difference of these variables between the young and geriatric group (P > 0.05), however, elderly patients were more likely to suffer from a longer bone union time. OWHTO can avoid geriatric patients from undergoing secondary knee surgery in the short term, however the survival rate of OWHTO in geriatric patients should be ultimately clarified by different studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High myopia (HM), which is characterized by oxidative stress, is one of the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness across the world. Family and population genetic studies have uncovered nuclear-genome variants in proteins functioned in the mitochondria. However, whether mitochondrial DNA mutations are involved in HM remains unexplored. Here, we performed the first large-scale whole-mitochondrial genome study in 9613 HM cases and 9606 control subjects of Han Chinese ancestry for identifying HM-associated mitochondrial variants. The single-variant association analysis identified nine novel genetic variants associated with HM reaching the entire mitochondrial wide significance level, including rs370378529 in ND2 with an odds ratio (OR) of 5.25. Interestingly, eight out of nine variants were predominantly located in related sub-haplogroups, i.e. m.5261G > A in B4b1c, m.12280A > G in G2a4, m.7912G > A in D4a3b, m.94G > A in D4e1, m.14857 T > C in D4e3, m.14280A > G in D5a2, m.16272A > G in G2a4, m.8718A > G in M71 and F1a3, indicating that the sub-haplogroup background can increase the susceptible risk for high myopia. The polygenic risk score analysis of the target and validation cohorts indicated a high accuracy for predicting HM with mtDNA variants (AUC = 0.641). Cumulatively, our findings highlight the critical roles of mitochondrial variants in untangling the genetic etiology of HM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polydopamine–modified MCM-41 was prepared by sodium periodate–induced polymerization. Ru–La supported on MCM-41 and polydopamine–modified MCM-41 catalysts were prepared by double solvent impregnation method and tested for benzene hydrogenation to cyclohexene. Polydopamine–modified MCM-41 supported Ru–La catalyst exhibits much higher hydrophilicity and more moderate catalytic activity than unmodified MCM-41 supported Ru–La catalyst. The higher hydrophilicity, more moderate catalytic activity, and long-range order of mesoporous structure are beneficial for improving cyclohexene selectivity on account of the promotion of the desorption and the inhibition of the adsorption of cyclohexene. 47.0% of cyclohexene yield was obtained over Ru–La supported on polydopamine–modified MCM-41 in benzene hydrogenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intelligent diagnosis of faults in an aero-hydraulic pipeline is important for condition monitoring of its systems. However, there are no more qualitative formulas or feature indicators to describe the faults of aero-hydraulic pipelines because of the complexity and diversity of aero-hydraulic pipeline systems, which leads to a very complex pipeline fault mechanism. In addition, although it is well known that the expression of interpretable and representable pipeline intelligent diagnosis models with pipeline fault characteristics are buried in high background noise and strong noise disturbance conditions in practical industrial scenarios, this has yet to be discussed. Inspired by the demand, this paper proposes a novel diagnosis strategy: the 1D-convolutional space-time fusion strategy for aero-engine hydraulic pipelines. Firstly, by optimizing the convolutional neural network and using it to design a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1DCNN) with a wide input scale to expand the input field of perception, thereby obtaining more comprehensive spatial information of the pipeline data, which can effectively extract richer short sequence features. Secondly, a network of bidirectional gated recurrent Unit (Bi-GRU) is proposed, which integrates a short sequence of high-dimensional features for temporal information fusion, resulting in a certain degree of avoiding memory loss and gradient dispersion caused by the too-large step size. It is demonstrated that, for the noise signal and variable pressure signal, the fault identification accuracy approximated 95.9%, proving the proposed strategy's robustness. By comparing with the other five methods, the proposed strategy has the ability to identify 10 different fault states in the aero-hydraulic pipeline with higher accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four novel donor − π-bridge − acceptor (D − π − A) polymeric metal complexes (P1-P4) based on 8-hydroxyquinoline metal complexes were synthesized and tested for their performance in dye-sensitized (DSSCs). The polymeric metal complexes dyes use alkoxy benzene or alkyl fluorene as the electron donor and C=C as π linker; the 8-hydroxyquinoline derivative complex part was used as the electron acceptor and diaminomaleonitrile was used as ancillary ligand. The two strongly electron-withdrawing cyano groups in the polymer structure can provide an efficient in the between donor and acceptor parts. The thermal, photophysical, electrochemical and photovoltaic properties of these copolymers were investigated by TGA, differential scanning calorimetry, cyclic voltammetry and cureent density-voltage curves, and the results showed that dye containing complex Zn(II) and alkoxy benzene unit benefited the generation of photocurrent and open-circuit voltages, and a maximum power conversion efficiency of 1.91% (P2) was obtained, with an open-circuit voltage of 0.71 V, a short-circuit current density of 4.23 mA cm−2, and a fill factor of 38.6% under AM1.5G irradiation. The study results also show that the four polymers exhibit good , indicating that these polymeric metal complexes are suitable for the fabrication processes of optoelectronic devices. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ca [1−3x/2] TiO 3 :xSm 3+ (0 ≤ x ≤ 5 mol%), Ca 0.955 TiO 3 :0.03Sm 3+ + 10 mol% H 3 BO 3 , Ca 0.94 TiO 3 :0.03Sm 3+ , 0.03Na + phosphors are synthesized by high temperature solid–state reaction method in air. All samples are pure phase CaTiO 3 . Two strong excitation bands within the range 400–435 nm and 455–510 nm are observed, which are nicely match with widely applied near-UV (400–430 nm) and blue (460–500 nm) LED chips. The strongest emission band peaking at ∼603 nm is assigned to the 4 G 5/2 → 6 H 7/2 transition of Sm 3+ ion. The optimal Sm 3+ doping concentration is ∼3 mol%. Fluorescent lifetimes of Ca 0.955 TiO 3 :0.03Sm 3+ phosphor with excitation 408, 467, and 481 nm are ∼0.809 m, 0.792 m, and 0.8 m, respectively. The PL intensity of Ca 0.955 TiO 3 :0.03Sm 3+ phosphor is enhanced 5–7 times after Na + ion is codoped as charge compensator and H 3 BO 3 is added as flux, and their CIE chromaticity coordinate is ∼ (0.5792, 0.4199). The experiment results are helpful to improve luminescence properties of other Sm 3+ -doped phosphors and study novel phosphors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BaSO 4 phosphor activated with Sm are prepared by the high temperature solid state reaction method in air, and its crystal structure, morphology, and luminescence properties are investigated. Broadband PLE spectrum are observed within the range 250–580 nm owing to mainly the 4f–5d transitions of Sm 2+ ions, and PL spectrum consists seven emission bands in the range of 550–780 nm owing to mainly 5 D 0 → 7 F J ( J = 0, 1, 2, and 3) transitions of Sm 2+ ion and 4 G 5/2 → 6 H J ( J = 5/2, 7/2, and 9/2) transitions of Sm 3+ ions. Sm 2+ ions can exist steadily in BaSO 4 :Sm phosphor sintered at different temperature and time in air. The optimum Sm 2+/3+ doping concentration, sintering temperature and time are about 2 mol%, 800 °C and 30 min, respectively. The luminous mechanisms are discussed by the schematic energy level diagrams of Sm 3+ and Sm 2+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Apaf‐1 interacting protein (APIP), a ubiquitously expressed antiapoptotic molecule, is aberrantly expressed and of great significance in various cancers. However, little is known regarding the potential value and underlying mechanisms of APIP in prostate cancer. Here, we demonstrated that APIP expression is significantly upregulated in prostate cancer cell lines. APIP overexpression promoted tumor cell proliferation and migration and induced extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation. Pharmacological inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling reversed APIP‐induced increase in cell proliferation and migration induced by APIP overexpression. Expression of APIP was hampered by miR‐146a‐3p. A dual luciferase reporter gene assay identified the regulatory relationship between APIP and miR‐146a‐3p in prostate cancer, suggesting that APIP is a direct target of miR‐146a‐3p. miR‐146a‐3p reduced cell proliferation and migration in prostate cancer. Furthermore, miR‐146a‐3p inhibited ERK1/2 activation. Application of an ERK1/2 inhibitor reversed the increase in cell proliferation and migration induced by miR‐146a‐3p inhibition. In summary, this study focused on the role of APIP in regulating cell growth and migration and proposes a theoretical basis for APIP as a promising biomarker in prostate cancer development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A reddish orange emission Sr2P2O7:Sm3+ phosphor is prepared by the solid-state reaction method in air, and the crystal structure and luminescence properties of phosphors are investigated. Sr2P2O7:Sm3+ phosphor shows Commission International de I'Eclairage (CIE) chromaticity coordinates (x = 0.5753, y = 0.4147). White light-emitting diodes (W-LEDs) fabricated using Sr2P2O7:Sm3+ phosphor etc. show CIE chromaticity coordinates (x = 0.3471, y = 0.3124). These results indicate that Sr2P2O7:Sm3+ phosphor could be a potential suitable reddish orange emitting phosphor candidate for W-LEDs with excitation of a ~400 nm n-UV LED chip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Ca 3 Ti 2 O 7 :Eu 3+ , Ca 3 Ti 2 O 7 :Eu 3+ , Bi 3+ , Ca 3 Ti 2 O 7 :Eu 3+ , R + , and Ca 3 Ti 2 O 7 :Eu 3+ , Bi 3+ , R + ( R + =Li + , Na + , and K + ) phosphors are synthesized by solid-state reaction method in air. All phosphors show bright red emissions centered at ~617 nm upon excitation with UV light of 397 nm. Bi 3+ is a sensitizer for the luminescence of Eu 3+ , and can improve significantly the PL intensity of Ca 3 Ti 2 O 7 :Eu 3+ phosphor due to energy transfer between Bi 3+ and Eu 3+ ions. The sensitization mechanism is investigated and discussed by energy level diagrams of Bi 3+ and Eu 3+ ions. R + ion is used as the charge compensator to improve the luminescence intensity of Ca 3 Ti 2 O 7 :Eu 3+ and Ca 3 Ti 2 O 7 :Eu 3+ , Bi 3+ phosphors, and their PL intensities are enhanced in the sequence K + →Na + →Li + . These phosphors can be promising red emitting candidate for white LED with a ~397 nm near UV chip excitation owing to the high brightness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a parameterized multi-partitioning method is presented for modeling arbitrary multi-ring hard coating treatment for the thin-walled cylindrical shell under different ring numbers and coating ratios, while the Rayleigh–Ritz method and the Chebyshev orthogonal polynomials of the second kind are employed to derive the governing equations of motion and the admissible displacement, respectively. Moreover, a unified formulation of external load based on the trigonometric and Chebyshev series is developed for forced vibration analysis of the shell with arbitrary axial half-wave number and circumferential wave number. Based on the experimental resonant frequencies, an improved inverse identification procedure is proposed in which the genetic algorithm and pattern search algorithm are sequentially employed to identify the stiffness coefficients of elastic constraint. Good agreement between the experimental and numerical resonant frequencies and responses exhibits the reliability and effectiveness of both the stiffness identification method and semi-analytical model. The identified results happen to find that the constraint stiffness may have the inherent property of frequency dependence due to the existence of micro sliding which would further result in soft nonlinearity in frequency response curve as shown in experimental results. Additionally, the influences of ring number and coating ratio on vibration and damping characteristics of the thin-walled cylindrical shell are investigated by introducing the average strain energy density and average modal loss factor. • A parameterized multi-partitioning method for arbitrary multi-ring hard coating. • A load formula with arbitrary axial half-wave number and circumferential wave number. • An improved stiffness identification procedure with frequency dependence. • Effects of ring number and coating ratio on vibration and damping characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: La2BaZnO5:Nd3+ phosphors are synthesized by a conventional high temperature solid state reaction method, and its crystal structure and luminescence properties are investigated. Photoluminescence bands peaking at ~496, 540, 630, 670, 905, 1070, and 1350nm of La2BaZnO5:Nd3+ phosphors are observed at room temperature due to f–f transition of Nd3+ ion. The optimum Nd3+ doped concentration is ~0.03. Lifetimes of La1.97BaZnO5:0.03Nd3+ phosphor with 496 and 1070nm monitoring wavelengths are ~280 and 250µs, respectively. The luminescence mechanism is explained by using simplified energy lever diagram of Nd3+ ion. La2BaZnO5:Nd3+ material can be applied to powerful solid-state lasers as high efficient light sources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Four new donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) dyes (P1, P2, P3, P4) were synthesized, characterized and applied in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Poly(p-phenylenevinylene) (PPV) or Bisthien PPV was used as donor, ethilenic link or thiophene as π-bridge, and Cadmium complexes or Nickel complexes as acceptor in these D-π-A type sensitizers. The introduction of the polymerization of π system and the metal complexes has greatly increased the light absorption. Increasing the number of thienyl group in the molecule to a certain extent was effective in further lowering both the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy levels to attain higher open-circuit voltage (V oc). Among them, P3-based cell shows excellent photovoltaic performance and power conversion efficiency up to 2.25% under AM 1.5G irradiation (100 mW cm−2). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, a semi-analytic method with Gegenbauer polynomials as an admissible function is presented. Free vibration analysis of rotating functionally graded graphene reinforced porous composite (FG-GPLRPC) stepped cylindrical shells with arbitrary boundary conditions is analyzed by using the unified Gegenbauer-Ritz method. The effective material properties of rotating FG-GPLRPC stepped cylindrical shells are obtained with Halpin-Tsai micromechanical model and the open-cell body theory. The boundary conditions at both ends of the structure and the continuous coupling between the shell segments are simulated with the artificial spring technique. Then, based on the first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT), the Rayleigh-Ritz method is employed to derive the equations of rotating FG-GPLRPC stepped cylindrical shells. Finally, the influences of several factors on dimensionless frequency of the shell are also assessed. The results show that this method has excellent convergence and higher computational efficiency. Furthermore, the traveling wave frequencies of different modes show different trends with the increase of rotating speed under elastic boundary conditions. In high-order modes, the influence of porosity coefficient is smaller than that of rotating speed. ● A semi-analytic method using Gegenbauer polynomials as admissible functions is proposed, which enhances the efficiency. ● The traveling wave vibration characteristics of rotating FG-GPLRPC stepped cylindrical shells are studied by Gegenbauer-Ritz method. ● Focusing on the vibration characteristics of structures with elastic boundary conditions. ● It is found that the effect of rotating speed is greater than porosity coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fifteen autosomal STRs loci were analyzed from two samples of 178 healthy unrelated autochthonous individuals of Chinese Dongxiang and Salar ethnic minority groups using a multiplex PCR system. Allele frequencies distribution and statistical parameters for all STR loci, D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, D3S1358, TH01, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D19S433, vWA, TPOX, D18S51, D5S818 and FGA, were determined by the AmpFISTR Identifiler Kit. The observed genotype frequencies and expected of genotype frequencies were evaluated by χ 2-test and the Fisher exact tests. χ 2-test showed that the agreement with Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (p >0.05) was for all studied STR loci of two populations. The data in the present study can be used greatly for routine forensic application in the region, and enrich Chinese ethnical genetic informational resources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The induction of ferroptosis is considered a new strategy for cancer treatment. Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein 1 (CPEB1) is a post‐transcriptional regulatory factor, whose low expression has been reported to link to the enhanced metastasis and angiogenesis of gastric cancer (GC). In this study, to explore the role of CPEB1 in ferroptosis, GC cells with overexpressed or silenced CPEB1 expression were treated with erastin, a classic ferroptosis inducer. The results showed that erastin dose‐dependently decreased the viability of four GC cell lines (AGS, SNU‐1, Hs‐746 T, and HGC‐27), suggesting that ferroptosis could be triggered in these GC cells. Interestingly, HGC‐27 cells overexpressing CPEB1 were more sensitive to erastin, generated more lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and their glutathione peroxidase 4 (Gpx4) expression and GSH content were reduced. Contrarily, CPEB1‐silenced AGS cells were more resistant to erastin. Mechanically, we demonstrated that CPEB1 overexpression reduced the expression of twist1, an inhibitor of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), thereby activating the ATF4/ChaC Glutathione Specific Gamma‐Glutamylcyclotransferase 1 (CHAC1) pathway (CHAC1, a molecule known to induce GSH degradation). Furthermore, re‐expression of twist1 in GC cells impaired the effects of CPEB1 overexpression in presence of erastin. Additionally, similar to the in vitro results, the growth‐inhibiting effects of erastin on GC xenografted tumors were also augmented by CPEB1 overexpression in vivo. Collectively, we demonstrate that CPEB1 facilitates erastin‐induced ferroptosis by inhibiting twist1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate cancer (PCa) refers to malignant tumors derived from prostate epithelial cells, whose morbidity and mortality rates have been increasing every year. Although new drugs for treating prostate cancer continue to emerge, the unclear mechanism underlying drug targets limits this therapy, thereby constraining identification of effective therapeutic targets. Although GDP dissociation inhibitor 2(GDI2) is highly expressed and closely associated with occurrence and development of many tumors, its role in prostate cancer remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of GDI2 and elucidated its underlying mechanism of action in prostate cancer. Moreover, we screened chemotherapeutic drugs that affect GDI2 expression with a view of identifying novel targets for diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. We performed sequence analyses and functional assays to precisely elucidate the GDI2 role in prostate cancer. Moreover, we induced tumorigenesis in nude mice to verify the role of GDI2 in viv o. Finally, we used the CCK8 assay to ascertain the most suitable IC 50 across the three drugs and performed quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western Blot to analyze the effects of drugs on expression of GDI2, p75NTR, and p -NFκB. GDI2 was up-regulated in prostate cancer cells and tissues. Knocking down GDI2 suppressed cell proliferation but promoted cell apoptosis. Interestingly, knocking down GDI2 activated the p75NTR signaling pathway, indicating, for the first time, that p75NTR is negatively correlated with GDI2 expression. Taken together, these results indicate that GDI2 is a therapeutic target of paclitaxel. Knocking down of GDI2 inhibits cell proliferation and promotes cell apoptosis via the p75NTR signaling pathway in prostate cancer. Notably, paclitaxel inhibits GDI2 expression, implying that GDI2 may be a promising therapeutic target in prostate cancer. • We firstly discovered that GDI2 is one of the therapeutic targets of paclitaxel in PC3 and DU145 cells. • We identified the role of GDI2 in the progression of prostate cancer for the first time. • We revealed that p75NTR is negatively regulated by GDI2 in prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li5La3Ta2O12:Mn4+ (LLTO:Mn4+) phosphors are prepared in air via high‐temperature solid‐state method and investigated for their crystal structures and luminescence properties. LLTO:Mn4+ phosphor under excitation at 314 nm shows deep‐red emission peaking at 714 nm due to the 2E→4A2 transition of Mn4+ ion. The excitation bands in the range 220 ‐ 570 nm are attributed to the Mn4+ ‐ O2‐ charge‐transfer band and the 4A2g→4T1g, 2T2g, and 4T2g transitions of Mn4+, respectively. The optimal Mn4+ ion concentration is ~0.4 mol%. The concentration quenching mechanism in LLTO:Mn4+ phosphor is electric dipole‐dipole interaction. The luminous mechanism and temperature quenching phenomenon are explained by the Tanabe‐Sugano energy level diagram and the configurational coordinate diagram of Mn4+ in the octahedron, respectively. The experimental results indicate that LLTO:Mn4+ phosphor has a potential application prospect as candidate of deep‐red component in light‐emitting diode (LED) lighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of Vitamin C (VC) on hydrocortisone (HC)-induced cell injury in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC). Methods: Cell viability was measured by CCK-8 assay and the expression of Best-3 was detected by Western blotting assay. The experiment was divided into normal control, HC injury group, VC treatment groups, HC + Best-3 siRNA group, HC + VC + Best-3 siRNA group, HC + pcDNA3.1 Best-3 group, and HC + VC + pcDNA3.1 Best-3 group. Results: HC inhibited HMEC-1 cell viability was balanced with lower expression of Best-3 in a dose-dependent manner. Conversely, VC promoted HMEC-1 cell viability was paralleled to higher expression of Best-3 in a dose-dependent manner. Silencing Best-3 with Best-3 siRNA inhibited HMEC-1 cell viability, however, over-expression of Best-3 with pcDNA3.1 Best-3 promoted HMEC-1 cell viability. Moreover, VC and over-expression of Best-3 prevented HC-induced HMEC-1 cell apoptosis; however, silencing Best-3 further enhanced HC-induced HMEC-1 cell apoptosis. HC reduced Best-3 expression, which was alleviated by VC treatment. HC treatment decreased Bcl-2 expression, facilitated Bax expression. Both of VC and over-expression of Best-3 promoted Bcl-2 expression and decreased Bax expression. Additionally, VC and Best-3 expression have a synergistic effect. Conclusions: VC can efficiently attenuate HC-induced HMEC-1 cell injury, which may be related to promote Best-3 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work, Ba 2 LaSbO 6 :Mn4+ phosphors are prepared successfully in air by solid-state reaction method, which is confirmed by the X-ray powder diffractions patterns, decay curves, the time-resolved emission spectra and luminescence properties. Monitored at 678 nm, the excitation spectrum of Ba 2 LaSbO 6 :Mn4+ phosphor is observed in the range of 250–575 nm. Under the excitation of 380 nm, Ba 2 LaSbO 6 :Mn4+ phosphor exhibits strong deep-red emission in the range of 625–740 nm with emission peak at 678 nm due to the 2E → 4A 2 transition of Mn4+ ion. The emission spectrum well matchs with the absorption spectrum of plants in the range of 625–740 nm. The temperature-dependent emission spectra illustrate the thermal stability of Ba 2 LaSbO 6 :Mn4+ phosphor and the thermal quenching mechanism is explained by the configuration coordinate of Mn4+ ion. The luminous mechanism of Ba 2 LaSbO 6 :Mn4+ phosphor is explained by the Tanabe-Sugano energy level diagram of Mn4+ ion. The experimental results show that the Ba 2 LaSbO 6 :Mn4+ deep-red-emitting phosphor would have potential application in plant growth LEDs. Graphical abstract fx1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sr 3 YP 3 O 12 :R (R = Dy 3+ and Eu 3+ ) phosphor is synthesized by high temperature solid-state reaction method in air. The crystal structure and luminescence properties are investigated. Sr 3 YP 3 O 12 :Dy 3+ phosphor with excitation at 350 nm emits yellow light in the range of 450–780 nm. Sr 3 YP 3 O 12 :Eu 3+ phosphor with excitation at 394 nm shows red emission in the range of 550–760 nm. The emission intensity of Sr 3 YP 3 O 12 :R (R = Dy 3+ and Eu 3+ ) phosphor is enhanced ∼1.5 and 1.8 times, respectively, when H 3 BO 3 as flux is added. The luminous mechanisms of Sr 3 YP 3 O 12 :R (R = Dy 3+ and Eu 3+ ) phosphor are explained by energy level scheme of Dy 3+ and Eu 3+ ion. The experimental results are beneficial to improve the luminescence property of other phosphors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper innovatively designs a diagnosis framework for aero-pipelines with a lightweight spatial-temporal model. • The lightweight spatial feature extraction module is designed to extract fine-grained features from fault data. • The bi-directional temporal feature extraction module is designed to extract coarse-grained features from fault data. • A multi-channel lightweight diagnosis model has been designed from the requirement of a lightweight computing process. • A novel intelligent model for end-to-end aero-engine pipeline system composite fault diagnosis. Accurate identification of faults in the aero-engine hydraulic pipelines is of great significance for condition monitoring of engines as well as safe and reliable operation of aircraft. However, due to the complexity of the structure of the aero-engine pipeline systems, the correlation of the coupling, and the multi-source nature of the excitation it is subjected to, the identification of failure characteristics has been an urgent problem in both engineering and academia. In addition, so there is no more qualitative formula or characteristic index to describe the fault of the aero-hydraulic pipeline. Therefore, to overcome these challenges, in this paper, a new compound faults diagnosis framework, namely Lightweight Spatial-Temporal Model Fusion Self-Attention Mechanism (LST-SATM-Net), is proposed for the aero-engine hydraulic pipeline systems. Firstly, the lightweight spatial feature extraction module is designed to extract fine-grained features from aero-engine hydraulic pipeline fault data and the bi-directional temporal feature extraction module is designed to extract coarse-grained features with temporal patterns from fine-grained features, achieving coarse and fine-grained feature fusion. Then, a self-attention mechanism is integrated into the spatial–temporal model for optimization, enabling the model to automatically learn important features from data with multiple sources of coupled vibration excitation, enhancing the performance of critical features from the correlated coupling of compound faults. The powerful noise interference is suppressed and the weighting coefficients are continuously updated to make the final decision more focused. Consequently, the recognition accuracy of the LST-SATM-Net model is improved and the feature learning of the neural network model is more flexible. The results demonstrated that compared with seven other advanced methods, the proposed LST-SATM-Net model is capable of diagnosing compound faults in the hydraulic pipeline system of aero-engine more accurately after being trained by experimental measurement data. This impressive finding indicates that the proposed LST-SATM-Net model can be applied to the actual condition monitoring of aero-engine hydraulic pipelines to reduce maintenance costs and downtime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs), which are endogenous non‑coding single‑stranded RNAs 19‑25 nucleotides in length, regulate gene expression by blocking translation or transcription repression. The present study revealed that miR‑3160‑5p was widely expressed in prostate cancer cells by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. There was a negative association between the expression of miR‑3160‑5p and F‑box and WD repeat domain containing 8 (Fbxw8) in prostate cancer DU145 cells. A luciferase activity assay was used to verify that Fbxw8 is the target of miR‑3160‑5p. In the present study, using MTT assay and cell cycle analysis, it was demonstrated that DU145 cell proliferation was repressed and the cell cycle was arrested in the G2/M cell cycle phase with upregulation of miR‑3160‑5p. Subsequent studies demonstrated that miR‑3160‑5p regulated the progression of the cell cycle in DU145 prostate cancer cells when the expression levels of phosphorylated cell division cycle (CDC)2, CDC25C and cyclin B1 were directly inhibited. Taken together, these findings revealed the mechanism underlying the role of miR‑3160‑5p in regulating the proliferation of DU145 cells and indicated that miR‑3160‑5p may serve as a promising novel therapeutic tool for prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The slump, compressive strength and split tensile strength of dune sand concrete (DSC) are experimentally investigated. • Central composite design method is used to design the experiments. • Response surface methodology is applied to the multi-objective optimization of DSC. • The optimal slump, split tensile strength and dune sand to fine aggregate ratio of concrete can be achieved in line with certain strength. Dune sand (DS) concrete (DSC) has attracted increasing attention due to the scarce of river sand and the abundance and low cost of DS. To promote more construction applications of DS, this study provides an optimization method of the mix proportion for DSC with DS to fine aggregate (D/F) ratio, basalt fiber (BF) dosage, water to cement (W/C) ratio and sand to aggregate (S/A) ratio as factors. 36 groups of dune sand concrete (DSC) were designed by the central composite design (CCD) method. Response surface method (RSM) was applied to explore the individual and interactive effects of above factors on slump, cubic compressive strength and splitting tensile strength. Desirability function was used to determine the mix ratio of concrete of different strength grades with the optimal overall performance, followed by verifications with a series of experiments. The results showed that the models established by the RSM were effective and can accurately predict the performance of DSC. W/C ratio, D/F ratio, sand to aggregate (S/A) ratio and BF dosage had significant effects on the workability and mechanical properties of concrete. Slump was affected by D/F ratio, W/C ratio, BF dosage and S/A ratio in descending order of significance, compressive strength by W/C ratio, D/F ratio, BF dosage and S/A ratio, and splitting tensile strength by W/C ratio, BF dosage, D/F ratio and S/A ratio. The optimal mix proportions for C30-C40 DSC were obtained by desirability function, and verified by experiments. The research results of this paper contribute to obtain engineered DSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel Li 2 SnO 3 :Mn 4+ red-emitting phosphor is synthesized by high-temperature solid-state reaction method in air. Emission band of Li 2 SnO 3 :Mn 4+ phosphor within the range 620–760 nm is attributed to the 2 E → 4 A 2 electron transition of Mn 4+ ion. Excitation bands peaking at 330, 395, and 480 nm are attributed to O 2- → Mn 4+ charge transfer and 4 A 2 → ( 4 T 1 , 2 T 1 , and 4 T 2 ) transitions of Mn 4+ ion, respectively. The optimal Mn 4+ concentration is ∼0.4 mol% and the corresponding quantum efficiency and lifetime are ∼42.3% and 16.3 μs. The influences of temperature and Mn 4+ concentration to emission intensity are discussed and analysized. Lifetime data and time resolved spectra confirm that there is only a single type of Mn 4+ ion luminescent center in Li 2 SnO 3 :Mn 4+ phosphor. The influences of the crystal field and the “Mn 4+ -ligand” bonding to luminescence properties of Mn 4+ ion are summaried and analysized. The luminous mechanism is explained via Tanabe-Sugano energy level diagram and the configuration coordinate diagram of Mn 4+ in the octahedron. The results indicate that Li 2 SnO 3 :Mn 4+ phosphor has a hope to be used as red phosphor candidate for solid-state lighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li 2 Mg 3 SnO 6 :Mn 4+ deep red phosphor is synthesized by high-temperature solid-state reaction method in air. With excitation 330 and 480 nm, the emission band peaking at ∼670 nm within the range 600–790 nm is observed owing to the 2 E → 4 A 2 transition of Mn 4+ ion. Excitation bands peaking at ∼330, 395, and 480 nm in the range of 220–600 nm indicate that Li 2 Mg 3 SnO 6 :Mn 4+ phosphor can be effectively excited by (near) ultraviolet and blue light-emitting diode chips. The optimal Mn 4+ ion concentration is ∼0.4 mol%. Fluorescence lifetime and quantum efficiency of Li 2 Mg 3 SnO 6 :0.4%Mn 4+ phosphor with excitation 330 nm are ∼266.67 μs and 36.3%, respectively. The luminous mechanism is explained by the Tanabe-Sugano energy level diagram of Mn 4+ in the octahedron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Host SrSb 2 O 6 , SrSb 2 O 6 :Bi 3 + , SrSb 2 O 6 :Eu 3 + , and SrSb 2 O 6 :Eu 3 + , Bi 3 + phosphors are synthesized by solid state reaction method in air. Host SrSb 2 O 6 with excitation 254 nm shows weak green-yellow emission in the range of 320–780 nm due to Sb 5 + → O 2– transition. SrSb 2 O 6 :Bi 3 + phosphor with excitation 365 nm emits green light within the range 400–650 nm owing to the 3 P 1 → 1 S 0 transition of Bi 3 + ion. SrSb 2 O 6 :Eu 3 + phosphor with excitation 254 nm exhibits a systematically varied hue from green to orange-red light by increasing Eu 3 + concentration from 0 to 7 mol%, and that with excitation 394 nm only shows orange-red light. The optimal Eu 3 + concentration is ~ 4 mol% in SrSb 2 O 6 :Eu 3 + phosphor. SrSb 2 O 6 :Eu 3 + , Bi 3 + phosphor with excitation 254 and 394 nm emits orange-red light. Emission intensity of SrSb 2 O 6 :Eu 3 + phosphor may be enhanced > 2 times by co-doping Bi 3 + ion because of the fluxing agent and energy transfer roles of Bi 3 + ion in SrSb 2 O 6 :Eu 3 + , Bi 3 + phosphor. The luminous mechanism of SrSb 2 O 6 :Eu 3 + , Bi 3 + phosphor is analyzed and explained by the simplified energy level diagrams of Sb 2 O 6 2 − group, Bi 3 + and Eu 3 + ions, and energy transfer processes between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A double perovskite Sr 2 ZnMoO 6 :Mn 4+ (SZM:Mn 4+ ) phosphor is synthesized by high-temperature solid-state reaction method in air. Emission band peaking at ∼705 nm of SZM:Mn 4+ phosphor in the range of 650–790 nm is attributed to the 2 E → 4 A 2 transition of Mn 4+ ion with activated different lattice vibration modes. Three excitation bands in the range of 210–610 nm are assigned to the O 2− → Mn 4+ charge transfer and the 4 A 2 → ( 4 T 1 , 2 T 2 , and 4 T 2 ) transition of Mn 4+ ion. The optimal Mn 4+ ion concentration is ∼0.8 mol% in SZM:Mn 4+ phosphor. Fluorescence lifetime of SZM:Mn 4+ phosphor decreases from ∼132 μs to 108 μs with increasing Mn 4+ ion concentration in the range of 0.2–1.0 mol%. Time-resolved spectra and fluorescence lifetime data indicate that luminescent center is caused by Mn 4+ ion. The luminous mechanism of SZM:Mn 4+ phosphor is explained by Tanabe-Sugano energy level diagram of Mn 4+ ion. The results are useful to understand the influences of the neighboring coordination environment around Mn 4+ and host crystal structure to the luminescence properties of Mn 4+ ion and develop other novel Mn 4+ -doped materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel Ca 0.2 Zr 0.8 O 1.8 :Eu 3+ phosphor is synthesized by high-temperature solid-state reaction method in air. Host Ca 0.2 Zr 0.8 O 1.8 with excitation 310 nm shows deep-blue broadband emission within the range 340–500 nm owing to the Zr 4+ → O 2− transition in [ZrO 8 ] group. Ca 0.2 Zr 0.8 O 1.8 :Eu 3+ phosphor with excitation 263 and 394 nm emits reddish-orange light owing to the 5 D 0 → 7 F J ( J = 1, 2, 3, and 4) transitions of Eu 3+ ion, and that with excitation 310 nm shows a systematically varied hue from deep-blue to reddish-orange by changing Eu 3+ ion concentration. Tunable emission and energy transfer are confirmed via spectral properties. The optimal Eu 3+ concentration is ∼5 mol% in Ca 0.2 Zr 0.8 O 1.8 :Eu 3+ phosphor and the corresponding fluorescence lifetime is ∼1.994 ms. The luminous mechanism is analyzed and explained by the simplified energy level diagrams of [ZrO 8 ] group and Eu 3+ ion in Ca 0.2 Zr 0.8 O 1.8 :Eu 3+ phosphor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel double perovskite Li 3 Mg 2 NbO 6 :Mn 4+ deep red-emitting phosphor is synthesized by solid-state reaction method in air. Emission band peaking at ∼670 nm with chromaticity coordinates (0.722, 0.278) is observed in the range of 600–780 nm due to 2 E → 4 A 2 transition of Mn 4+ ion. Excitation spectrum monitored at 670 nm contains three excitation bands peaking at ∼310, 395, and 470 nm within the range 220–600 nm, which indicate that Li 3 Mg 2 NbO 6 :Mn 4+ phosphor can be excited by ultraviolet, near ultraviolet, and blue light-emitting diode chips. The optimal Mn 4+ doping concentration is about 0.4 mol%. Fluorescence lifetime decreases from 0.485 to 0.32 ms with increasing Mn 4+ ion concentration from 0.2 to 1.2 mol%. Time resolved emission spectra and lifetime data confirm that there is only a single type of Mn 4+ ion luminescent center in Li 3 Mg 2 NbO 6 :Mn 4+ phosphor. The possible luminous mechanism of Mn 4+ ion is analyzed by Tanabe–Sugano energy diagram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LaAlO:Mn and LaAlO:Mn, Na deep red-emitting phosphors are synthesized by a solid-state reaction method in air. Their crystal structures, lifetimes, and luminescence properties are investigated, respectively. PLE spectrum monitored at 730 nm contains three PLE bands peaking at ~276, 325, and 500 nm within the range 200-550 nm, and PL spectrum with excitation 325 nm exhibits two PL band peaks located at ~703 and 730 nm owing to anti-stokes vibronic sidebands associated with the excited state E of Mn ion and the E → A transition of Mn ion, respectively. The optimal Mn doping concentration is ~0.8 mol%. Lifetime of LaAlO:0.8 %Mn phosphor is ~0.92 ms. Na ion as charge compensator can improve obviously the luminescence properties of LaAlO:Mn phosphor due to the charge compensation. The luminous mechanism of Mn ion is explained by using Tanabe-Sugano diagram of Mn ion in octahedral crystal field. The contents of this paper will be helpful to develop novel Mn-doped materials and improve their luminescence properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of CaNbO: xSm (0 ≤ x ≤ 10 mol%) and CaNbO : Sm, Na/B phosphors were synthesized by the solid-state reaction method in air. Their crystal structures and luminescence properties were investigated and analysed, respectively. Host CaNbO emitted blue light with excitation 270 nm. CaNbO: xSm phosphors showed a systematically varied hue from blue to white by changing Sm ion concentration from 0 to 10 mol% with excitation of 270 nm and their chromaticity coordinates were the regions from (0.1665, 0.1767) to (0.2484, 0.2260). Luminescence properties of CaNbO : Sm phosphor were tuned and improved significantly by codoping B or Na ions. Energy transfer between Nb $_{\mathbf {2}}\textit {O}_{\mathbf {6}}^{\boldsymbol {2-}}$ group and Sm ion was observed and analysed via luminescence properties. The luminous mechanism was explained by energy level scheme and energy transfer process in CaNbO : Sm phosphor. The strong excitation band peaking at ∼407 nm indicated that the CaNbO : Sm, Na/B phosphor has a potential application in white light-emitting diodes based on near-UV LED chip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel CaWO 4 :Eu 3+ , Mn 2+ red phosphor is synthesized by solid-state reaction method in air. CaWO 4 :Eu 3+ , Mn 2+ phosphor with excitation 268 and 394 nm emits red light with chromaticity coordinates (x = 0.6403, y = 0.3593). The strongest emission bands peaking at ∼615 nm is attributed to 5 D 0 → 7 F 2 of Eu 3+ ion. Strong excitation band peaking at ∼394 nm indicates that the phosphor may be excited by near UV (∼394 nm) chip. Emission intensity of CaWO 4 :Eu 3+ , Mn 2+ phosphor with excitation 268 nm is ∼2 times stronger than that of CaWO 4 :Eu 3+ phosphor owing to energy transfer between Eu 3+ ion and Mn 2+ ion. Energy transfer from WO 4 2 − group and Eu 3+ ion to Mn 2+ ion in CaWO 4 :Eu 3+ , Mn 2+ phosphor may be explained via luminescence properties. Luminous mechanism is analyzed by energy level diagrams of WO 4 2 − group, Mn 2+ and Eu 3+ ion. The paper content is helpful to develop and research other novel phosphors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensing and responding to endogenous electrical fields are important abilities for cells engaged in processes such as embryogenesis, regeneration and wound healing. Many types of cultured cells have been induced to migrate directionally within electrical fields in vitro using a process known as galvanotaxis. The underlying mechanism by which cells sense electrical fields is unknown. In this study, we assembled a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) galvanotaxis system and found that mouse fibroblasts and human prostate cancer PC3 cells migrated to the cathode. By comparing the effects of a pulsed direct current, a constant direct current and an anion-exchange membrane on the directed migration of mouse fibroblasts, we found that these cells responded to the ionic flow in the electrical fields. Taken together, the observed effects of the calcium content of the medium, the function of the store-operated calcium channels (SOCs) and the intracellular calcium content on galvanotaxis indicated that calcium ionic flow from the anode to the cathode within the culture medium permeated the cells through SOCs at the drift velocity, promoting migration toward the cathode. The RTK-PI3K pathway was involved in this process, but the ROCK and MAPK pathways were not. PC3 cells and mouse fibroblasts utilized the same mechanism of galvanotaxis. Together, these results indicated that the signaling pathway responsible for cathode-directed cellular galvanotaxis involved calcium ionic flow from the anode to the cathode within the culture medium, which permeated the cells through SOCs, causing cytoskeletal reorganization via PI3K signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel nitrogen ion implantation/AlN/CrAlN/MoS 2 -phenolic resin duplex coatings are fabricated on the AM60 magnesium alloys. The microstructure, tribological and electrochemical properties of the duplex coatings are characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, nano-indenter, electrochemical corrosion and wear tester. These studies reveal that the MoS 2 -phenolic resin coating has a two-phase microstructure crystalline MoS 2 particles embedded in the amorphous phenolic resin matrix. The single-layer MoS 2 -phenolic resin enhances the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys, but shows poor wear resistance due to the low substrate's load bearing capacity. The addition of nitrogen ion implantation/AlN/CrAlN interlayer in the MoS 2 -phenolic resin/substrate system greatly enhances the substrate's load bearing capacity. The AlN/CrAlN/MoS 2 -phenolic resin duplex coating with a high load bearing capacity demonstrates super wear resistance (i.e., long wear life and low friction coefficient). In addition, the nitrogen ion implantation/AlN interlayer greatly depresses the effect of galvanic corrosion because its potential is close to that of the magnesium alloys, but the nitrogen ion implantation/AlN/CrAlN interlayer is inefficient in reducing the galvanic corrosion due to the large potential difference between the CrN phase and the substrate. As a result, the nitrogen ion implantation/AlN/MoS 2 -phenolic resin duplex coating shows a better corrosion resistance compared to the nitrogen ion implantation/AlN/CrAlN/MoS 2 -phenolic resin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of SrAl [4−(4 x )/3] O 7 : x Mn 4+ (0≤ x ≤1.4 mol%) and Sr (1−0.06/2) Al [4−(4×0.008)/3] O 7 :0.008Mn 4+ ,0.06R + (R + =Li + , Na + , and K + ) phosphors are synthesized by a conventional solid-state reaction method in air. The PLE bands peaking at~325, 395, and 470 nm and the strongest PL band peaking at~660 nm are assigned to the 4 A 2 → 4 T 1 transition of Mn 4+ ion and O 2− –Mn 4+ change transfer band, 4 A 2 → 2 T 1 , 4 A 2 → 4 T 2 , and 2 E → 4 A 2 transitions, respectively. The optimum Mn 4+ doping concentration is about 0.8 mol%. Li + , Na + , and K + ions used as charge compensator can improve observably the PL intensity of SrAl 4 O 7 :Mn 4+ phosphor with excitation 325 nm. The fluorescence lifetimes of SrAl [4−(4×0.008)/3] O 7 :0.008Mn 4+ and Sr [1−0.06/2] Al [4−(4×0.008)/3] O 7 :0.008Mn 4+ ,0.06 R + (R + =Li + , Na + , and K + ) are 0.958, 0.97, 1.113 and 0.965 ms, respectively. The luminous mechanism is explained by schematic energy level diagram of Mn 4+ ion. These experiment results indicate that SrAl 4 O 7 :Mn 4+ ,R + (R + =Li + , Na + , and K + ) phosphors can be used as red emitting phosphor candidate for white LEDs based on a UV (~325 nm) and near UV (~395 nm) bands of LEDs chip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The TiAlSiN coatings are synthesized by a multi-plasma immersion ion implantation and deposition technique. The microstructure and the electrochemical behavior of the as-deposited coatings are investigated by using X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and electrochemical tests. These studies reveal that huge lattice distortions and dislocations emerge in the coating after introducing a small amount of Al component. These structural defects can facilitate the corrosion process of the TiAlN coating. The TiAlN coating exhibits a worse corrosion resistance performance than the TiN coating. The TiAlSiN coating has a two phase microstructure, nc-TiAlN/a-Si 3 N 4. The grain size is greatly reduced after introducing Si component, whereas the portion of the a-Si 3 N 4 phase increases as the amount of Si increases in the coating. The reduced grain size and the increased percentage of the a-Si 3 N 4 phase in the TiAlSiN coatings enhance their ability in corrosion resistance. The TiAlSiN coating with a larger amount of Si shows better corrosion resistance performance. This research provides a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the microstructure and the electrochemical behavior of the TiAlSiN hard coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of SrAl [4−(4 x )/3] O 7 : x Mn 4+ (0≤ x ≤1.4 mol%) and Sr (1−0.06/2) Al [4−(4×0.008)/3] O 7 :0.008Mn 4+ ,0.06R + (R + =Li + , Na + , and K + ) phosphors are synthesized by a conventional solid-state reaction method in air. The PLE bands peaking at~325, 395, and 470 nm and the strongest PL band peaking at~660 nm are assigned to the 4 A 2 → 4 T 1 transition of Mn 4+ ion and O 2− –Mn 4+ change transfer band, 4 A 2 → 2 T 1 , 4 A 2 → 4 T 2 , and 2 E → 4 A 2 transitions, respectively. The optimum Mn 4+ doping concentration is about 0.8 mol%. Li + , Na + , and K + ions used as charge compensator can improve observably the PL intensity of SrAl 4 O 7 :Mn 4+ phosphor with excitation 325 nm. The fluorescence lifetimes of SrAl [4−(4×0.008)/3] O 7 :0.008Mn 4+ and Sr [1−0.06/2] Al [4−(4×0.008)/3] O 7 :0.008Mn 4+ ,0.06 R + (R + =Li + , Na + , and K + ) are 0.958, 0.97, 1.113 and 0.965 ms, respectively. The luminous mechanism is explained by schematic energy level diagram of Mn 4+ ion. These experiment results indicate that SrAl 4 O 7 :Mn 4+ ,R + (R + =Li + , Na + , and K + ) phosphors can be used as red emitting phosphor candidate for white LEDs based on a UV (~325 nm) and near UV (~395 nm) bands of LEDs chip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]