Search

The neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) of the head and neck are rare. The purpose of this article is to explore the diagnosis and treatment of NECs in the ear and larynx. We report a case of a patient with NECs found in the ear and throat simultaneously, and the relevant literatures are reviewed. It is difficult to identify which is the original site. There is no specific clinical manifestation of NECs in the ear and throat, and carcinoid syndrome is a rare situation. Surgery is still the preferred treatment for this disease. For patients with metastasis, radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven-dimensional time-dependent wave packet calculations were carried out to study the title reaction on the potential energy surface constructed recently by the group [Y. Zhou, B. Fu, C. Wang, M. A. Collins, and D. H. Zhang, J. Chem. Phys. 134, 064323 (2011)]. Total reaction probabilities and integral cross sections were calculated for a number of initial vibration states. It is found that the fundamental C-H stretching excitation can promote the reaction dramatically. At E = 1.53 eV, it enhances the integral cross section by a factor of 13.2, which is in good agreement with the quasiclassical trajectory result on the ZBB1 potential energy surface, but larger than that on the the EG-2002 potential energy surface. The thermal rate constants were obtained for the title reaction by taking into account the contributions from all relevant initial vibration states. It is found that the ground initial state has a dominant contribution to the thermal rate constant at low temperature region. As the temperature increases, the relative contribution to the thermal rate constant from the ground initial state decreases quickly, and those from the stretching and bending excited states increases substantially. It is estimated that the C-H stretching mode contributes about 40% of the thermal rate constant at T = 1000 K despite the fact that the overall population for stretching excited states is tiny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we report for the first time a van der Waals (vdW) heterostructure formed from an individual single crystal SbSI whisker and individual PbI2 flake for photodetection. Benefiting from the millimeter-sized whisker and flake, we take advantage of the flexibility of operation and vdW junction interface between SbSI and PbI2. This mixed-dimensional heterostructure is used as an optoelectronics platform due to the larger light-harvesting cross section than the individual material. It generates photocurrent to broaden the spectral response range. The two-dimensional (2D) material acts as a current collector, while the single crystal whisker material acts as a current channel. Compared with the individual SbSI device, the vdW heterojunction device can achieve a lower dark current. As a result, our SbSI–PbI2 photodetector exhibits a responsivity of up to 26.3 mA W−1 and shows a fast response speed of ∼12 ms. Large-area growth and scalable approaches lead to an efficient transfer strategy and heterostructure assembly. These investigations will broaden our fundamental knowledge of vdW heterostructures. This mixed-dimensional vdW heterostructure opens new opportunities for basic research of micro/nano-optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Organic Photodetectors have high potential for use in the next generation of information technology systems because of the mechanical flexibility, large-area detection and low production cost of organic materials for photodetectors. A red light photodetector based on phthalocyanine compounds is one of the representations. There are some disadvantages for the common methods to fabricate phthalocyanine films, such as expenses of high operation temperature, ultrahigh vacuum processing, large materials loss, complicated operation, large energy consumption and poor solubility. To solve these problems, a multiple drop casting method is proposed in this paper. This method could prepare phthalocyanine films from a relatively dilute solution, and give an alternative way to fabricate the phthalocyanine photodetectors especially for the phthalocyanine with poor solubility. Graphical abstract Image 108007 Highlights • Phthalocyanine based organic photodetectors have received more and more attention. • The common methods to fabricate phthalocyanine films have some disadvantages. • A multiple drop casting method could prepare phthalocyanine films from a relatively dilute solution, and it is a resin-free way. • Photodetector based on phthalocyanine film prepared by multiple drop casting method has a relatively high responsivity and low dark current. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase change materials can enable temperature self-regulation due to their drastic changes in optical properties accompanying the phase transition. Significant reduction of the optical absorption after the transition is the key ingredient for an enhanced regulating performance. However, the absorptivity of unpatterned vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin films can hardly be reduced after phase transition at visual-to-infrared band. In this work, we combine the direct binary search (DBS) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms for an optimized design of temperature self-regulating nano-photonic devices on VO2 thin films. For a given incident wavelength, a pixelated structure is firstly inverse-designed by the DBS algorithm which maximizes the absorption contrast before and after the transition. To overcome fabrication challenges as pixel size is at deep sub-wavelength scale, the pixelated structure can then be replaced by geometric shapes which are more tractable in manufacturing processes. The geometrical parameters are optimized by the PSO algorithm where our optimized device brings the absorptivity down to 33% after the transition. These results provide an effective way for the inverse design of optimized nano-photonic structures based on phase change materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To avoid the health threat and environmental pollution as well as to preserve the life of industrial equipment, it is very important and necessary to find an efficient method for detecting and eliminating HF gas. In the present work, four MOFs including Cu-BTC, ZIF-8, MIL-53(Al) and MIL-101(Cr) with various surface area, functionalities, and pore sizes were selected for their HF adsorption capacities studied under unique conditions. As comparison, commercial Al 2 O 3 powder and 13X zeolite were also investigated under the same conditions. It is resulted that the MOFs have higher HF uptakes than commercial Al 2 O 3 and 13X zeolite. MIL-53(Al) have a highest HF capacity, and the HF adsorption of MIL-101(Cr) can be regenerated up to 90%. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work of studying the HF adsorption behaviors of MOFs, which provides a new perspective of MOFs in a new field of practical purify application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preexisting renal impairment and the amount of contrast media are the most important risk factors for contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI). We aimed to investigate whether the product of contrast medium volume and urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (CMV × UACR) would be a better predictor of CI-AKI in patients undergoing nonemergency coronary interventions. This was a prospective single-center observational study, and 912 consecutive patients who were exposed to contrast media during coronary interventions were investigated prospectively. CI-AKI is defined as a 44.2 μmol/L rise in serum creatinine or a 25% increase, assessed within 48 h after administration of contrast media in the absence of other causes. Fifty patients (5.48%) developed CI-AKI. The urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) (OR = 1.002, 95% CI = 1.000–1.003,p = .012) and contrast medium volume (CMV) (OR = 1.008, 95% CI = 1.001–1.014,p = .017) were independent risk factors for the development of CI-AKI. The area under the ROC curve of CMV, UACR and CMV × UACR were 0.662 (95% CI = 0.584–0.741,p < .001), 0.761 (95% CI = 0.674–0.847,p < .001) and 0.808 (95% CI = 0.747–0.896,p < .001), respectively. The cutoff value of CMV × UACR to predict CI-AKI was 1186.2, with 80.0% sensitivity and 62.2% specificity. The product of CMV and UACR (CMV × UACR) might be a predictor of CI-AKI in patients undergoing nonemergency coronary interventions, which was superior to CMV or UACR alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is proven to be very effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR), but its regulatory mechanism and biomarkers for predicting efficacy are still unknown. Osteopontin (OPN), as a recently described Th2 inflammation related protein, plays key role in the pathogenesis of AR. The aim of this study was to identify the expression and role of OPN during SLIT in children. Methods Fifty house dust mite (HDM)-sensitized children with AR were enrolled in this study. AR children received HDM allergen extract or placebo for SLIT. Serum of different time points during treatment was collected and used for enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA) of OPN and related cytokines, respectively. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from children after SLIT or placebo treatment were collected and stimulated with HDM with or without OPN/anti-OPN after one year's treatment. Results Our results showed that expression of OPN protein was decreased after one year's therapy. The decreased OPN expression was positively related to decreased Th2 cytokines and negatively related to enhanced IL-10 and TGF-β expression. In vitro experiments confirmed that children received SLIT treatment showed decreased production of Th2 cytokines by PBMCs after HDM stimulation. Conclusion During SLIT, decreased OPN expression was related to low Th2 cytokine expression and enhanced IL-10 and TGF-β expression. High serum OPN expression predicts poor treatment efficacy. OPN may be used as a biomarker for SLIT treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To evaluate the effect of reduced glutathione on renal outcomes following the selective coronary angiography and/or intervention. Background Contrast agents can cause an acute reduction in renal function that may be due to the generation of reactive oxygen species. The role of antioxidants in prevention of this renal impairment is controversial. Methods and Results We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of reduced glutathione in 825 patients who underwent selective coronary angiography and/or intervention. Patients were assigned to reduced glutathione 1800 mg (n = 416) or placebo (n = 411) intravenously. Contrast-induced acute kidney injury was defined by an absolute increase of serum creatinine ≥0.5 mg/dl (44.2 μmol/L) or a relative increase of ≥25% measured 48 hours after the procedure. The incidence of contrast-induced acute kidney injury was 5.07% in the glutathione group and 4.97% in the control group (relative risk, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.59-1.83; P = 0.886). Change in serum malondialdehyde was (−) 1.01 ± 1.69 nmol/ml in the glutathione group and (−) 0.67 ± 1.55 nmol/ml in the control group (P = 0.054), and change in serum total antioxidant capacity level was also similar in both groups (0.91 ± 2.06 nmol/ml and 0.79 ± 2.18 nmol/ml, respectively; P = 0.936). Conclusions A single dose of reduced glutathione does not reduce the risk of contrast-induced acute kidney injury in patients undergoing coronary angiography and/or intervention. (J Interven Cardiol 2015;28:249-256) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a multifunctional material, TiO2 shows excellent performance in catalytic degradation and lithium-ion storage. However, high electron-hole pair recombination, poor conductivity, and low theoretical capacity severely limit the practical application of TiO2. Herein, TiO2 nanotube (TiO2 NT) with a novel double-layer honeycomb structure were prepared by two-step electrochemical anodization. Honeycombed TiO2 NT arrays possess clean top surfaces and a long-range ordering, which greatly facilitates the preparation of high-performance binary and ternary materials. A binary TiO2 nanotube@Au nanoparticle (TiO2 NT@Au NP) composite accompanied by appropriately concentrated and uniformly distributed gold particles was prepared in this work. Interestingly, the TiO2 nanotube@Au nanoparticle (TiO2 NT@Au NP) composites not only showed the excellent catalytic degradation effect of methylene blue, but also demonstrated large lithium-ion storage capacity (310.6 μAh cm−2, 1.6 times of pristine TiO2 NT). Based on the realization of the controllable fabrication of binary TiO2 nanotube@MoS2 nanosheet (TiO2 NT@MoS2 NS) composite, ternary TiO2 nanotube@MoS2 nanosheet@Au nanoparticle (TiO2 NT@MoS2 NS@Au NP) composite with abundant defects and highly ordered structure was also innovatively designed and fabricated. As expected, the TiO2 NT@MoS2 NS@Au NP anode exhibits extremely high initial discharge specific capacity (487.4 μAh cm−2, 2.6 times of pristine TiO2 NT) and excellent capacity retention (81.0%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A six-dimensional state-to-state quantum dynamics study is carried out for the prototypical complex-formation OH+CO→H+CO2 reaction from the ground and two vibrationally excited initial states on the Lakin–Troya–Schatz–Harding potential energy surface for the total angular momentum J =0, using the multiple-step reactant–product decoupling method. With three heavy atoms and deep wells on the reaction path, the reaction represents a huge challenge for accurate quantum dynamics study. The effects of reagent vibrational excitation on product CO2 vibrational state distributions and product energy partition were investigated for reagents in the ground rotational state. It is found that the initial CO vibrational excitation essentially has the same effect on the product energy partition as the reagent translational excitation, while the initial OH excitation leads to slightly more internal energy in CO2. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Single-crystalline ZnSe/Ge bi-axial heterostructural nanowires were grown via a simple one-step thermal evaporation of mixed ZnSe and Ge powders. The heterostructure nanowires have uniform diameter of 200nm and their length ranges are from several tens to several hundreds of micrometers. Both the zinc-blende ZnSe and diamond-like cubic Ge sub-nanowires in the heterostructures are single crystalline, and grow along the [111] direction. The sub-nanowires of ZnSe and Ge, with ideal interfaces along the growth orientation, have diameters of 120 and 80nm, respectively. The experimental evidence suggests that the bi-axial nanowires are formed via a co-growth mechanism. The vibrating property of the nanowire was investigated by Raman spectroscopy at room-temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a review of current research activities on ZnO nanorods (or nanowires). We begin this paper with a variety of physical and chemical methods that have been used to synthesize ZnO nanorods (or nanowires). There follows a discussion of techniques for fabricating aligned arrays, heterostructures and doping of ZnO nanorods. At the end of this paper, we discuss a wide range of interesting properties such as luminescence, field emission, gas sensing and electron transport, associated with ZnO nanorods, as well as various intriguing applications. We conclude with personal remarks on the outlook for research on ZnO nanorods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of redox reactions were performed using Zn nanowire and Cu2+ containing solutions with different concentration. Various Cu containing nanostructures resulted from the solution reaction, including Cu particle decorated ZnO nanotube, Cu particle chain and uniform single crystalline Cu nanorods. Transmission electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer and energy filtering system was used to investigate the morphology and the chemical composition of the resulting nanostructures. The experimental data strongly suggested that the redox reaction occurred both at the Zn nanowire broken surface and its oxide sheath surface. Possible formation mechanisms of these nanostructures were discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The optical properties of BiI3 nanocrystallites have been investigated by Raman scattering, far infrared spectrum and UV–vis absorption at room temperature. The Raman and far infrared spectrum of the BiI3 nanocrystallites have a shift in comparison with that of the BiI3 single crystals. The shift is mainly attributed to nanosize effect. The first exciton peak of BiI3 nanocrystallites is a slight blue shift in comparison with the band gap of the bulk materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The optical property of SnS2 nanocrystallites has been investigated by Raman scattering, far infrared spectrum and photoluminescence at room temperature. The Raman and far infrared spectrum of the SnS2 nanocrystallites have a shift in comparison with that of the SnS2 single crystals. The shift is mainly attributed to nanosize effect. The intralayer and interlayer force constant of SnS2 nanocrystallites have been calculated by using a linear chain model. The photoluminescence of SnS2 nanocrystallites is reported for the first time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

CaS and SrS nanocrystallites have been successfully synthesized via a solvothermal route by the reaction between XCl2 (X=Ca, Sr) and sulfur at relatively lower temperature for the first time. XS (X=Ca, Sr) nanocrystallites are efficient emission luminescence in comparison with that of bulk materials at room temperature. The emitted light of CaS and SrS nanocrystallites is yellow–green and blue, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: α-Sb2O4 nanorods with diameter of 50–150 nm and length of 100–300 nm have been successfully synthesized by a hydrothermal method using SbCl3 and I2 as reaction reagents. The obtained sample is characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and selected-area electron diffraction. The results confirm that the product is pure single-crystalline α-Sb2O4 nanorods with few dislocations and defects. The vibrational property of the nanorods is investigated by Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectrum of α-Sb2O4 nanorods has a small red shifts compared with that of the bulk α-Sb2O4 powders. A possible growth mechanism of α-Sb2O4 nanorods is proposed as three stages: the hydrolyzation of SbCl3 under strong acid condition, the oxidation of Sb4O5Cl2 and the growth of α-Sb2O4 nanorods with the aid of iodine transport. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this work, we report on fabricating of self-doped TiO 2 nanotube arrays via a facile electrochemical method by modify the electrochemical anodized amorphous TiO 2 nanotube arrays with cathodic pulse doping. The self-doped TiO 2 nanotube arrays is black appearance with abundant oxygen vacancy and hydroxyl groups in comparison with that of as-anodized ones. The initial discharge specific capacity of self-doped TiO 2 nanotube anode is 1355 μA h/cm2 which is more than four times higher than 338 μA h/cm2 of the as-anodized TiO 2 nanotube anode in lithium ion batteries. After 100 cycles, the specific capacity of the self-doped TiO 2 nanotube electrodes still much higher than that of the as-anodized samples, which is attributed to good tubular morphology retention and secondary growth of the self-doped TiO 2 nanotube arrays through the process of insertion/extraction Li+. The controllable regulation of the capacity of self-doped TiO 2 anode is also achieved by adjusting electrochemical cathode pulse parameters. It is noteworthy that the cycled anode materials can be used as a catalyst for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue which may shed light on the resource recovery and the environmental protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A converged quantum wave packet study is presented for the unimolecular reaction HOOH → OH+OH induced by the fifth OH-overtone excitation employing an ab initio potential energy surface. All six internal vibrational degrees of freedom are explicitly represented in this simulation for total angular momentum zero. It is found that the decay of the survival probability and of the autocorrelation function is non-exponential and that the long time dynamics is likely due to the superposition of a number of resonance states. The simulated overtone spectrum and rotational product distribution is in good agreement with experimental measurements. It is concluded that: (1) the reaction dynamics is non-statistical on a 30 ps timescale, (2) the observed line width is roughly a factor of 1.7 larger than implied by the reactive lifetimes suggesting that a significant portion of the linewidth is due to intramolecular vibrational energy relaxation, and (3) the quantum reaction rate is suppressed by about a factor of two relative to its classical counterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass production of uniform wurtzite-ZnS nanobelts is achieved by a simple thermal evaporation method using Au as the catalyst. The as-synthesized ZnS nanobelts are single crystalline, usually several tens of microns in length and several hundreds of nanometers in width. Most of the nanobelts grow along [01 1 0] direction. Stacking faults are commonly observed in these nanobelts. The room-temperature cathodoluminescence spectrum of such nanobelts reveals three peaks, which may be ascribed to surface states, defects, and impurity-induced emissions, and is consistent with the nanobelt microstructure. The growth mechanism of the nanobelts is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-crystalline Zn/ZnS coaxial nanocables were fabricated through thermal reduction of ZnS using graphite powder at elevated temperatures. Energy dispersive x-ray analysis of the as-fabricated samples indicated that the nanowires were composed of Zn and S only. Transmission-electron-microscopic study of the nanowires revealed that they had core/sheath contrast, suggesting a Zn core/ZnS sheath heterostructure. Epitaxial relationship was observed between the Zn and the ZnS. The possible formation mechanisms of such nanocables are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe the case of a 57-year-old male with jaundice, abdominal distension and fatigue. He was diagnosed as chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection (CAEBV) due to intermittent elevated liver enzymes, hepatosplenomegaly and pancytopenia, with persistent positive of EBV biomarkers in blood and also positive in liver tissue. The patient was reinfected by SARS-CoV-2 within 2 months companied with CAEBV. The patient's second infection with SARS-CoV-2 led to the aggravated liver dysfunction with pneumonia and re-admission. After receiving symptomatic treatment, the patient showed significantly improvement of symptoms with partially restoration of liver function. After discharge, the patient's health status continued to deteriorate and eventually died. The instances of SARS-CoV-2 co-infection with the original chronic virus are not uncommon, but the exact mechanism of EBV and SARS-CoV-2 coinfection and the relationship between them are still unclear. Since co-infection of SARS-CoV-2 with original chronic virus might affect each other and lead disease aggravated and complicated, it is necessary to differentiate in the diagnosis of disease and it is important to be aware of the re-infection signs of SARS-CoV-2 in people with chronic virus infection diseases, as well as the risk of co-infection of SARS-CoV-2 with other viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface plasmon resonance (SPR)‐generated electric field (E‐field) intensities around a Ag nanocube (NC) before and after it is covered by a BaTiO3 (BTO) layer (BTO@Ag NC) were calculated. It was observed that the theoretical E‐field intensities were reduced on BTO@Ag NCs, thus suggesting inferior catalytic activities under visible light illumination. However, BTO@Ag NCs experimentally displayed better photocatalytic performance than that of Ag NCs under illumination at 633 nm, both in ambient argon (Ar) and in ambient air, where p‐aminothiophenol (PATP) molecules were used to probe the conversion. The mechanism can be attributed to the surface polarization of the BTO layer trigged by a SPR effect of the Ag core. The oscillation of free electrons in the Ag core aroused appearance of surface polarization charge on the ferroelectric (FE) BTO surface, which resulted in the enhanced catalytic properties of BTO@Ag NCs. Therefore, our finding may provide a novel method to enhance visible‐light responsive photocatalytic activity of wide bandgap FE materials by depositing them on plasmonic metal nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, SbSI microrods is prepared by using a simple hydrothermal method via sulfur powder as sulfur source. The as-synthesized SbSI microrods with sulfur as sulfur powder source has better flexibility than that of SbSI with thiourea as sulfur source due to decreasing force constant between Sb and S atom. SbSI microrod based flexible photodetectors exhibit higher specific detectivity of up to 5.43 × 1010 Jones, fast response speed (rise time and fall time of 61 ms and 128 ms, respectively) and also show low dark current less than 50 pA. Especially, the photoresponse performance of the SbSI microrod based flexible photodetectors are almost unchanged after different bending curvatures and bending times more than 2000 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new full-dimensional potential energy surface for the title reaction has been constructed using the modified Shepard interpolation scheme. Energies and derivatives were calculated using the UCCSD(T) method with aug-cc-pVTZ and 6-311++G(3df,2pd) basis sets, respectively. A total number of 30 000 data points were selected from a huge number of molecular configurations sampled by trajectory method. Quantum dynamical calculations showed that the potential energy surface is well converged for the number of data points for collision energy up to 2.5 eV. Total reaction probabilities and integral cross sections were calculated on the present surface, as well as on the ZBB3 and EG-2008 surfaces for the title reaction. Satisfactory agreements were achieved between the present and the ZBB3 potential energy surfaces, indicating we are approaching the final stage to obtain a global potential energy surface of quantitative accuracy for this benchmark polyatomic system. Our calculations also showed that the EG-2008 surface is less accurate than the present and ZBB3 surfaces, particularly in high energy region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, NiMoO4@CoWO4 core–shell nanostructures have been synthesized by a hydrothermal process and annealing. Structural characterization and compositional analysis of the as-prepared NiMoO4@CoWO4 nanocomposites were performed using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge cycling, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Here, NiMoO4@CoWO4 nanostructures were designed and synthesized on Ni foam. NiMoO4 nanorods would provide electron "superhighways" for charge storage and delivery, which could provide an effective electrical connection to the CoWO4 electrode material. In addition, the open space between these nanosheets can increase the active sites and the contribution of capacitive effects. Finally, NiMoO4@CoWO4 directly grown on Ni foam could avoid the "dead" volume caused by the tedious process of mixing active materials with polymer binders/conductive additives. As expected, NiMoO4@CoWO4 exhibited high specific capacity, good rate performance and excellent electrochemical stability. The results show that NiMoO4@CoWO4 exhibited a high specific capacity at a current density of 5 mA cm−2 and splendid electrochemical stability (88.5% retention after 4000 cycles). The great electrochemical performance could be ascribed to the unique core–shell architecture and the synergistic effect from the NiMoO4 nanorods and CoWO4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetrapod-shaped heterostructured nanocrystals are promising materials in photoelectric devices due to their special morphology and structure. In this paper, CdSe/CdTe heterostructured nano-tetrapods with type II band alignment were synthesized by a simple chemical method in solution. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images show that CdSe/CdTe heterostructures are composed by CdSe tetrapod with CdTe nanorods epitaxially grown on the four arms. No core–shell heterostructures were observed. UV–visible absorption spectroscopy (UV–vis) shows that the absorption peak of CdSe/CdTe heterostructure tetrapod nanocrystals is red-shift comparing with that of CdSe tetrapod-shaped nanocrystals. It is also weaker and broader than that of nano-tetrapods. The room-temperature photoluminescence (PL) intensity of heterostructures is much weaker than that of CdSe nano-tetrapods. It is believed that it is due to the spatial separation of electrons and holes in heterostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BaTiO 3 @Ag (BTO@Ag) nanocubes (NCs) were fabricated by the deposition of ferroelectric (FE) BTO layers on Ag NCs. It was found that Methylene Blue (MB) could be degraded by BTO@Ag NCs under visible light irradiation. Since visible light was able to pass through the BTO and excited surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of Ag NCs, which resulted in the surface polarization of BTO covered, thus reactive oxygen species (ROS) was generated by polarization charge on BTO surface to degrade MB. Meanwhile, it was observed that the photocatalytic performance of BTO@Ag NCs under visible light irradiation of 1 sun was comparable to the piezocatalytic performance of ∼298 W ultrasonic power by using an ultrasonic cleaner. Therefore, our finding may provide a novel way for pollutant degradation with lower energy consumption. [Display omitted] • BaTiO 3 layers of different thickness were deposited on the surface of Ag nanocubes by hydrothermal method. • Photocatalytic degradation can be triggered by BaTiO 3 @Ag nanocubes under visible light irradiation. • Visible light can pass through BaTiO 3 and induced SPR of inside Ag nanocubes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was theoretically predicted that electric field intensities generated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) around plasmonic metallic nanostructures could be reduced after covered by wide bandgap semiconductor, thus worsening the SPR-mediated photocatalytic activities. However, we found that the Ag nanocubes (Ag NCs) covered by AgCl demonstrated an abnormal SPR-mediated catalytic enhancement. Herein the PATP-to-DMAB oxidization was used as a model reaction to explore the photocatalytic conversions. It was observed that the Ag NCs covered by AgCl ultra-thin layer (AgCl@Ag NCs) presented better photocatalytic activities than those of individual Ag NCs under 633-nm excitation. To reveal the mechanism behind the superior activities of AgCl@Ag NCs, the PATP-to-DMAB conversions were also carried out in ambient argon (Ar), in which AgCl@Ag NCs demonstrated significantly higher conversions. These results could be interpreted based on the separation of electron–hole pairs in AgCl through SPR effect of Ag, where the electrons in the valence band of AgCl were excited to the empty states of Ag, leaving holes in the semiconductor and resulting in the oxidation of PATP to DMAB. Thus, our findings may provide a novel way to enhance SPR-mediated photocatalytic activities on plasmonic metallic nanostructures by the cover of an ultra-thin layer of wide bandgap semiconductor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, α-MnO2 and Fe2O3 nanomaterials are prepared on a carbon fiber modified with carbon nanotubes to produce the nonbinder core–shell positive (α-MnO2@CNTs/CC) and negative (Fe2O3@CNTs/CC) electrodes that can be operated in a wide voltage window in ultrafast asymmetrical flexible supercapacitors. MnO2 and Fe2O3 have attracted wide research interests as electrode materials in energy storage applications because of the abundant natural resources, high theoretical specific capacities, environmental friendliness, and low cost. The electrochemical performance of each electrode is assessed in 1 M Na2SO4 and the energy storage properties of the supercapacitors consisting of the two composite electrodes are determined in Na2SO4 and EMImBF4 electrolytes in the 2 V and 4 V windows. The 2 V supercapacitor can withstand a large scanning rate of 5000 mV S−1 without obvious changes in the cyclic voltammetry (CV) curves, besides showing a maximum energy density of 57.29 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 833.35 W kg−1. Furthermore, the supercapacitor retains 87.06% of the capacity after 20,000 galvanostatic charging and discharging (GCD) cycles. The 4 V flexible supercapacitor shows a discharging time of 1260 s and specific capacitance of 124.8 F g−1 at a current of 0.5 mA and retains 87.77% of the initial specific capacitance after 5000 GCD cycles. The mechanical robustness and practicality are demonstrated by physical bending and the powering of LED arrays. In addition, the contributions of the active materials to the capacitive properties and the underlying mechanisms are explored and discussed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercapacitors are attracting huge research interest because they are expected to achieve battery-level energy density, and they have a longer calendar life and shorter charging time. However, due to the out shell materials without contact extra freeway for charge transports, the out shell materials have still limited contribution to high capacitance for array structure at high rates. Here, CO/CO@Ni-CMO NBs were designed and synthesized on Cu foam substrates with CuO NBs as cores or extra freeway and Ni–CoMoO 4 ·0.75H 2 O nanobelt as shell by an easily synthetic method. CuO NBs will provide electron "superhighways" and extra outside freeway for charge storage and delivery. Besides, the Ni doped CoMoO 4 ·0.75H 2 O NBs are conducive to the electrical conductivity, and open space among these nanosheets can act as an "ion reservoir", the increment of active sites and the contribution of capacitive effects. Finally, the CO@Ni-CMO NBs directly grown on Cu foam could avoid the "dead" volume caused by the tedious process of mixing active materials with polymer binders/conductive additives. As expected, the CO/CO@Ni-CMO NBs exhibited the high specific capacitance, the good rate performance and the excellent electrochemical stability. We synthesized CuO/CuO@Ni–CoMoO 4 ·0.75H 2 O nanobelt arrays with CuO nanobelt arrays inside Ni–CoMoO 4 ·0.75H 2 O nanosheets and the parts of CuO nanobelt arrays without wrapped Ni–CoMoO 4 ·0.75H 2 O nanosheet, which exhibited the high specific capacitance and the excellent electrochemical stability. [Display omitted] • CuO nanobelt arrays inside Ni–CoMoO 4 ·0.75H 2 O nanosheets provide electron "superhighways". • CuO nanobelt arrays without wrapped Ni–CoMoO 4 ·0.75H 2 O nanosheets decrease electron aggregation. • The arrays structure and open space among these nanosheets avoid the "dead" volume and allows easy diffusion of the electrolyte. • The Ni doped is conducive to the electrical conductivity and the increment of active sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The auditory midbrain, also known as the inferior colliculus (IC), serves as a crucial hub in the auditory pathway. Comprising diverse cell types, the IC plays a pivotal role in various auditory functions, including sound localization, auditory plasticity, sound detection, and sound-induced behaviors. Notably, the IC is implicated in several auditory central disorders, such as tinnitus, age-related hearing loss, autism and Fragile X syndrome. Accurate classification of IC neurons is vital for comprehending both normal and dysfunctional aspects of IC function. Various parameters, including dendritic morphology, neurotransmitter synthesis, potassium currents, biomarkers, and axonal targets, have been employed to identify distinct neuron types within the IC. However, the challenge persists in effectively classifying IC neurons into functional categories due to the limited clustering capabilities of most parameters. Recent studies utilizing advanced neuroscience technologies have begun to shed light on biomarker-based approaches in the IC, providing insights into specific cellular properties and offering a potential avenue for understanding IC functions. This review focuses on recent advancements in IC research, spanning from neurons and neural circuits to aspects related to auditory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, we studied the effect of NaCl electrolyte as a surface treatment on improving the uniformity and stability of field emission of screen-printed carbon nanotubes (CNTs). A short period of the electrolyte treatment of CNT films remarkably increase emission uniformity and stability. Furthermore, the field emission characteristics of screen-printed carbon nanotubes (CNTs) such as low turn-on field, high emission current density and strong adhesion of the CNT film on the substrate were also reinforced after post-treated. SEM, TEM and Raman spectrum study revealed that uniformity and stability of field emission is enhanced by two factors. Firstly, the electrolyte treatment appeared to render the CNT surfaces more actively by exposing more CNTs form the CNT paste, which dominates initial uniformity and stability of field emission. Secondly, the number of opened CNTs and defects CNTs of CNT film were increased by electrical current energy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Screen printing is undoubtedly the most cost-effective process for the fabrication of large-sized carbon nanotube field emission display (CNT-FED). A novel post-treatment method in NaCl electrolyte was presented to solve the problem of poor field emission characteristics of printed CNT films. Compared to those of untreated films, the turn-on electric field of the treated film decreased from 2.4 to 1.4V/μm and the total emission current of the treated film that has the same printing area as the untreated one increased from ∼100 to ∼1800μA. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Raman spectrum study revealed that field emission characteristics are enhanced by two factors. Firstly, the NaCl electrolyte treatment appeared to render the CNT surfaces more activey by exposing more CNTs from the CNT film. Secondly, the numerous defects of CNTs of the CNT film were increased by electrical current energy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

SnS2 films have been deposited on glass and alumina plate substrates by the reactions between an organotin precursor [tetrabuyltin, (CH2CH2CH2CH3)4Sn] and carbon disulfide in n-hexane at the temperature range 180–200 °C for 10–40 h. The reaction system was oxygen free and applied at a moderate temperature. The films so prepared were characterized by techniques of X-ray diffraction, Scanning electron microscopy, Raman and Mo¨ssbauer spectroscopies. The films deposited on glass as well as on alumina plate have an average thickness of 30 μm, but have different rose-like morphologies, which are influenced by both the anisotropic growths of crystals and the different substrate structures. Photoluminescence measurements show that the films have an emission peak at approximately 590 nm. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pb5S2I6 whiskers and tubules were synthesized from the reaction among lead chloride, thiourea, and excess sodium iodide under hydrothermal conditions at 200 °C for 20–40 h. XRD, SEM, XPS, ICP-AES, and TEM characterized the final products. Most products are whiskers with structure of 3–4 mm in length, 0.5–2.0 μm in diameter for a singular one. Meanwhile, about 10% tubules are produced in the process. The tubules are 3–6 mm in length, 8–20 μm in diameter, and 1–3 μm in thickness. Nanowhiskers were also produced in the route at 180–200 °C for 8–10 h. Raman spectra show that the Pb5S2I6 crystals have complex vibrational modes of PbS and PbI2. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mineral nanocrystalline Cu3BiS3 and Pb1−xBi2x/3S (or Bi0.22Pb0.89S1.22) have been prepared at low synthetic temperature of 100–150 °C by convenient hydrothermal decomposition process. X-ray powder diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectra, and element analysis were used to characterize and measure the samples. The as-prepared Cu3BiS3 sample consisted of whisker-like particles with an average size of 50×10 nm2 and the Pb1−xBi2x/3S sample displayed aggregative particles with size in the range of 30–50 nm. Preliminary results showed that the prepared precursors, reaction temperature and time played a role in the formation of the final products. A possible reaction mechanism was also discussed briefly. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

LiNbO3 nanocrystal was successfully prepared via a simple and convenient hydrothermal route using LiOH and Nb2O5 as the reactants. Transmission electron microscopy images shows that the as-prepared sample displays a flake-like shape of 40–100 nm. X-ray diffraction, IR spectrum and Raman spectra of the as-prepared sample indicates that the sample was well crystalline and of high purity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The expression of IL-36α were significantly up-regulated in AR. • The IL-36α promoted the differentiation and function of Th17 cells. • The anti-IL-36α treatment could alleviate the Th17 response in AR mice. T helper 17 (Th17) cell subsets, belongs to CD4+ T cell lineage, are proved to be closely related to pathophysiology of AR recently. The interleukin-36 (IL-36) had been reported to promote the up-regulation of Th17 cytokines in psoriasis. We investigated the regulation of Th17 inflammation by IL-36 family cytokines in allergic rhinitis (AR). Twenty-one patients with AR and 20 healthy controls were enrolled. The expression of serum protein and mRNA of IL-36 family cytokines between AR and control group were detected and compared. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were purified and stimulated by IL-36 cytokines. The transcription factor and production of Th17 cytokines by Th17 cells were evaluated. Mouse model with AR was established to confirm the in vitro results. The serum expression of IL-36 cytokines and Th17 cytokines (IL-17 and IL-23) of AR patients were up-regulated significantly compared with controls. The IL-36α promoted the differentiation and function of Th17 cells. The anti-IL-36α treatment could alleviate the Th17 response in AR mice, presented with alleviated symptoms, decreased infiltration of Th17 cells and down-regulated Th17 cytokines expression. IL-36α was involved in the regulation of Th17 responses in allergic rhinitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the driving factors of pollutant emissions is of great significance for China in the formulation of pollution control strategies. Existing studies mainly focus on the causes of national aggregate emission changes. However, considering the large differences among provinces in China and their close economic linkages, it is necessary to develop a provincial-level analysis to shape provincial policies for emission reduction. Using the multi-regional input-output (MRIO) tables of 30 provinces in China and adopting structural decomposition analysis, we analyze how changes in the end-of-pipe treatment, cleaner production, economic production structure, domestic final use, domestic exports and international exports drive national and provincial SO 2 emissions. Decomposition results show that during 2002–2010 the absolute value of each effect based on the MRIO model is higher than that based on the national aggregate input-output model, which indicates that the existing studies adopting the national average data conceal the variation in the driving factors and underestimate their contributions to SO 2 emission changes. The decomposition results based on MRIO model further show that the end-of-pipe treatment and cleaner production are the major emission reduction factors for all provinces, and the effect of the former has noticeably increased during 2007–2010. For the eastern provinces, interestingly, the economic production structure becomes a major emission reduction factor during the period of 2007–2010. Changes in domestic final demand, domestic exports and international exports exhibit significantly different contributions among provinces. The increased final demand in eastern provinces largely drive SO 2 emissions for all provinces. Based on the above findings, policy implications that address the SO 2 emission reduction issues are proposed. • Drivers of provincial SO 2 emissions in China is examined by using MRIO-SDA. • Large differences and close economic linkages among provinces in China are captured. • Absolute value of decomposition results based on MRIO model were higher than that based on national aggregate IO model. • Changes of economic production structures reduced SO 2 emissions in the eastern provinces. • The increased final demand in eastern provinces drove SO 2 emissions for all provinces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-performance and earth-abundant NiFeP is an excellent bifunctional catalyst for water splitting in acidic and alkaline environments, and NiFeP nanoflakes on CoP layer composite with a conductive carbon cloth (CC) substrate as the trunk-leaf flexible structure (NiFeP/CoP/CC) is prepared by direct high-temperature phosphorization. Overpotentials of only 96.38 and 78.80 mV are required in hydrogen evolution reaction in 1 M KOH and 0.5 M H2SO4, respectively, to generate an electrocatalytic current density of 10 mA cm−2. A small Tafel slope of 70.67 and 63.21 mV per decade are also observed from NiFeP/CoP/CC revealing a Volmer–Heyrovsky mechanism in both media. The electrocatalyst also delivers excellent oxygen evolution reaction performance in the alkaline environment and long-term electrochemical durability for at least 24 h in electrolytes over a wide pH range. A device is assembled with two identical flexible ultrathin NiFeP/CoP/CC as both the anode and cathode in 1 M KOH driven by a set of 1.6 V solar cells. During 32 h of electrolysis, the results show that the current of our electrodes maintains 80% performance at a constant voltage of 1.7 V for 32 h, and the NiFeP/CoP/CC anodes and cathodes have large potential in industrial alkaline water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The conductive porous carbon nanoflakes (CPCN) derived from the metal-organic frameworks (ZnCo-MOFs): The special three-dimensional porous carbon structure improves electron transport and has superior performance. • Flexible electrode: The study introduces a flexible electrode material (CdSe/CPCN@CC) that enhances catalytic activity in a limited space. • High stability: The CdSe/CPCN@CC electrode has higher specific capacity and better capacity retention than Cd/CPCN@CC. • Improved supercapacitor performance: Assembling the supercapacitor (CdSe/CPCN@CC//AC) with CdSe/CPCN@CC as the positive electrode achieves excellent power density and capacitance retention. • Strong sodium-ion adsorption: DFT calculations show a strong sodium-ion adsorption energy for the CdSe/CPCN@CC composite. Porous carbon derived from metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) represents a novel class of carbonaceous materials with unique structural characteristics, conductivity, and chemical stability, rendering them suitable for electrodes in supercapacitors. Herein, a three-dimensional structure of conductive porous carbon nanoflakes (CPCN) is synthesized based on MOFs composed of organic ligands containing zinc and cobalt. Nanoscale CdSe particles serving as energy-storage materials are incorporated into CPCN (CdSe/CPCN@CC) to form the flexible electrode for sodium-ion supercapacitors. The electrochemical properties of CdSe/CC, CdSe/ZnCo-MOF@CC, Cd/CPCN@CC, and CdSe/CPCN@CC are studied in 1 M Na 2 SO 4. The CdSe/CPCN@CC electrode shows an impressive specific capacitance of 893.52 F g-1 at a current density of 0.125 mA cm-2 and excellent cycling stability with 80.68% retention after 10,000 cycles in 1.0 M Na 2 SO 4. The asymmetric supercapacitor constructed with CdSe/CPCN@CC and 1 M NaPF 6 electrolyte shows a capacitance of 97.8 F g-1, an energy density of 139.10 Wh kg-1, and a power density of 589.82 W kg-1 at a current density of 1 mA cm-2. In addition, the capacitance retention is 88.45% after 10,000 cycles. The electrochemical properties of CdSe/CPCN@CC are improved due to the incorporation of more active materials as well as the synergistic effects of the CdSe nanoparticles and CPCN. Density-functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal a sodium ion adsorption energy of -1.0692 eV and large DOS near the Fermi level. More importantly, in spite of severe mechanical bending, the device continues to power an LED array boding well for flexible and wearable applications. Herein, a three-dimensional structure of conductive porous carbon nanoflakes (CPCN) is synthesized based on MOFs composed of organic ligands containing zinc and cobalt. Nanoscale CdSe particles serving as energy-storage materials are incorporated into CPCN (CdSe/CPCN@CC) to form the flexible electrode for sodium-ion supercapacitors. The DFT calculations yield a simulated structure that offers valuable insights into the atomic arrangement of the CdSe/CPCN composite. The DOS plot reveals an enhanced electronic activity, particularly near the Fermi level, upon the introduction of Se. The SEM image of CdSe/CPCN@CC confirms the excellent match between the simulated structure and the actual composite. Furthermore, the flexible supercapacitor demonstrates remarkable adaptability and as it successfully powers an LED array even under severe mechanical bending, highlighting its potential for flexible and wearable devices. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The expression of IL-36γ and its receptor IL-36R by eosinophils in AR were up-regulated. • IL-36γ exaggerates eosinophilic inflammation in AR by promoting the function of eosinophils. • Human nasal epithelial cells secrete IL-36γ after treated with recombinant IL-17, IL-25, IL-33. Allergic rhinitis (AR) is characterized by eosinophilic inflammation. However, the function and regulation of eosinophils in AR are largely unknown. This study aimed to explore the expression and role of interleukin-36 (IL-36) cytokines in AR. Sixty AR patients and 20 control subjects were recruited in this study. The mRNA and protein expression of serum IL-36 family cytokines and IL-36R in AR were detected by quantitative RT-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ELISA, respectively. IL-36R expression and regulation by eosinophils and the role of IL-36γ in the survival, adhesion, migration and activation of eosinophils were performed in purified eosinophils. Human nasal epithelial cell line was cultured and treated with different stimulators and IL-36γ was measured. The mRNA and protein expression of serum IL-36 cytokines and IL-36R were significantly higher in AR compared with control, especially in asthmatic patients. Among the IL-36 cytokines, the expression of IL-36γ was the highest. The expression of IL-36R by eosinophils were significantly increased compared with normal controls and was up-regulated by recombinant IL-17, IL-25, IL-33 and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus group 1. The IL-36γ promote the survival, adhesion, migration and activation of eosinophils. Human nasal epithelial cells can secrete IL-36γ after treated with recombinant IL-17, IL-25, IL-33. High expression of IL-36γ exaggerates eosinophilic inflammation in AR by promoting the survival, adhesion, and activation of eosinophils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Micro-nano scale current mapping for annealed 0 min, 1 min, 2 min and 3 min of VO 2 samples, and its corresponded threshold switching voltage. Highlights • Annealed process reduced threshold switching voltage of VO 2 thin film. • Due to the resistance decreased, VO 2 threshold switching voltage decreased. • CAFM mapping shown joule-heating effects on electrical-induced VO 2 phase transition. Abstract It was research hotspot that how to lower the threshold switching voltage (V th), especially for the perpendicular structure of electrical-induced VO 2 insulator-metal phase transition (MIT). This structure can reduce the V th to the orders of 10−1 V. In micro-nano scale, combined with results of resistance change versus temperature, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements and conductive atomic force microscope, we had confirmed that V3+ was an important factor for electrical-induced VO 2 thin MIT. On the one hand, joule heating produced by conductive V3+ region induced the surrounding VO 2 region phase transition. On the other hand, with the annealing time increased from 0 min to 2 min at 470 °C in H 2 /N 2 mixture gases, V3+ contents increased, thin film surface conductive areas increased, thin film resistance decreased, and finally resulted in threshold switching voltage decreased. Our experimental results were consistent with theory analysis. However, when the annealing time was too long (≥3 min), VO 2 thin film threshold switching behavior disappeared, and current was linearly increased with voltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modulating the material temperature as well as its optical response promises various potential applications of photothermal effects. In this work, we develop a self-consistent simulation scheme to investigate the nonlinear photothermal response of Vanadium Dioxide (VO 2 ) particles where the material can be driven from insulating to semiconducting phases or vice versa. Our results indicate that the photothermal-induced phase change process can be an efficient degree of freedom in designing micro- or nanoscale structures for photothermal applications. Moreover, for particle dimers, the particle temperature can be tuned by varying the particle distance and the polarization of the incident light. Our findings then suggest the possibility for designing and optimizing particle dimers to characterize the light polarization by measuring dimer temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of thermally stable and soluble hyperbranched metal phthalocyanines oligomers containing imide units (HMePcIs) ending with carboxyl groups were synthesized successfully. The number of the Pc rings was first estimated by analyzing the terminal carboxyl groups in the 1 H NMR spectra of HMePcIs. The third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of these oligomers were measured by a Z-scan technique with a pulsed Q-switched Nd: YAG laser system at 532 nm. The introduced imide unit noticeably improved the thermal stability and third-order nonlinear susceptibility, χ (3) . The 5 wt% weight loss temperature for HMePcIs exceeded 410 °C, and the χ (3) values reached the order of 10 −13  esu. The variation of the center metals of HMePcIs influenced the third-order optical nonlinearity, and the third-order nonlinear susceptibility χ (3) values of hyperbranched metal (Zn,Cu, Ni) phthalocyanines oligomers were found to rank in the order of HZnPcI > HCuPcI > HNiPcI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been proved challenging to fabricate the single crystal orientation of VO 2 thin film by a simple method. Based on chemical reaction thermodynamic and crystallization analysis theory, combined with our experimental results, we find out that when stoichiometric number of metallic V in the chemical equation is the same, the ratio of metallic V thin film surface average roughness R a to thin film average particle diameter d decreases with the decreasing sputtering Argon pressure. Meanwhile, the oxidation reaction equilibrium constant K also decreases, which will lead to the increases of oxidation time, thereby the crystal orientation of the VO 2 thin film will also become more uniform. By sputtering oxidation coupling method, metallic V thin film is deposited on c-sapphire substrate at 1 × 10 −1 Pa, and then oxidized in the air with the maximum oxidation time of 65s, high oriented (020) VO 2 thin film has been fabricated successfully, which exhibits ∼4.6 orders sheet resistance change across the metal-insulator transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the light absorption in an ultrathin crystalline silicon solar cell with composite grating structures using three dimensional rigorous coupled wave analysis. Comparing with conventional surface gratings, the composite grating which is a superposition of two subgratings with different length scales demonstrates efficient light trapping in thin film solar cells in a broad spectral range. The light absorption is found to be close to the Yablonovitch limit in both visual and infrared regions. The optimized structure yields an ideal photocurrent density of 33.9 mA/cm 2 at an equivalent thickness of 2 µm. This is comparable to the performance of the recently proposed double-sided grating design (Wang et al., 2012 [19]). These results suggest that the composite grating structures promise efficiency enhancement in ultrathin solar cells with improved technology compatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discharge processes of ultraviolet (UV) pre-ionized electric-discharge pulsed DF laser operating with a SF 6 –D 2 gas mixture are studied. A mathematical model based on continuity equation of electrons and Kirchhoff equations for discharge circuit is established to describe the discharge processes. Voltage and current waveforms of main discharge and voltage waveforms of pre-ionization are solved numerically utilizing the model. The calculations correctly display some physical processes, such as the delay time between pre-ionization and main discharge, breakdown of the main electrode and self-sustained volume discharge (SSVD). The results of theory are consistent with the experiments, which are performed in our non-chain pulsed DF laser. Then the delay inductance and peak capacitance are researched to analyze their influences on discharge processes, and the circuit parameters of DF laser are given which is useful to improve the discharge stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]