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Abstract Climate variability on centennial timescales has often been linked to internal variability of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). However, due to the scarceness of suitable paleoclimate proxies and long climate model simulations, large uncertainties remain on the magnitude and physical mechanisms driving centennial‐scale AMOC variability. For these reasons, we perform a systematic multi‐model comparison of centennial‐scale AMOC variability in pre‐industrial control simulations of state‐of‐the‐art global climate models. Six out of nine models in this study exhibit a statistically significant mode of centennial‐scale AMOC variability. Our results show that freshwater exchanges between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic provide a plausible driving mechanism in a subset of models, and that AMOC variability can be amplified by ocean–sea ice feedbacks in the Labrador Sea. The amplifying mechanism is linked to sea ice cover biases, which could provide an observational constraint for centennial‐scale AMOC variability.

IntroductionChronic low back pain (cLBP) poses significant challenges, often addressed through avoidance or distraction. Emerging evidence suggests that mind-body interventions, like our novel Mind Your Pain (MyP) smartphone mobile application, may offer relief. We conducted a single-arm, mixed-methods neuroimaging study to assess the degree to which treatment response to our 8-week intervention, as measured by the reduction in the Pain, Enjoyment of Life and General Activity Scale (PEG), was associated with enhanced pain-related insula activation over time.MethodsTwenty-nine individuals with cLBP completed patient-reported assessments, qualitative sensory testing (QST) measures, and neuroimaging pre- and post-MyP. Functional MRI data during experimental heat pain on the left forearm were collected and analyzed, comparing responders (≥50% reduction in PEG scores) and non-responders.ResultsMyP led to significant decreases in PEG scores overall. Furthermore, MyP responders exhibited increased pain-related activation in key brain regions, including the contralateral posterior insula, bilateral ventral anterior insula, ventral anterior cingulate, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and nucleus accumbens. Although baseline behavioral and sensory measures did not differ between the two responder groups, baseline neural differences related to the impact of the endogenous back pain were observed.DiscussionMyP appears to modify pain response and underlying neural circuitry, suggesting neural changes in interoception may serve as biomarkers for mind-body interventions in cLBP. This study highlights the potential of MyP as a novel approach for cLBP management, warranting further investigation.

Abstract Background Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) develops after injury and is characterized by disproportionate pain, oedema, and functional loss. CRPS has clinical signs of neuropathy as well as neurogenic inflammation. Here, we asked whether skin biopsies could be used to differentiate the contribution of these two systems to ultimately guide therapy. To this end, the cutaneous sensory system including nerve fibres and the recently described nociceptive Schwann cells as well as the cutaneous immune system were analysed. Methods We systematically deep-phenotyped CRPS patients and immunolabelled glabrous skin biopsies from the affected ipsilateral and non-affected contralateral finger of 19 acute ( 12 months after trauma) CRPS patients as well as 25 sex- and age-matched healthy controls (HC). Murine foot pads harvested one week after sham or chronic constriction injury were immunolabelled to assess intraepidermal Schwann cells. Results Intraepidermal Schwann cells were detected in human skin of the finger—but their density was much lower compared to mice. Acute and chronic CRPS patients suffered from moderate to severe CRPS symptoms and corresponding pain. Most patients had CRPS type I in the warm category. Their cutaneous neuroglial complex was completely unaffected despite sensory plus signs, e.g. allodynia and hyperalgesia. Cutaneous innate sentinel immune cells, e.g. mast cells and Langerhans cells, infiltrated or proliferated ipsilaterally independently of each other—but only in acute CRPS. No additional adaptive immune cells, e.g. T cells and plasma cells, infiltrated the skin. Conclusions Diagnostic skin punch biopsies could be used to diagnose individual pathophysiology in a very heterogenous disease like acute CRPS to guide tailored treatment in the future. Since numbers of inflammatory cells and pain did not necessarily correlate, more in-depth analysis of individual patients is necessary.

Performing interferometry in an optical lattice formed by standing waves of light offers potential advantages over its free-space equivalents since the atoms can be confined and manipulated by the optical potential. We demonstrate such an interferometer in a one-dimensional lattice and show the ability to control the atoms by imaging and reconstructing the wave function at many stages during its cycle. An acceleration signal is applied, and the resulting performance is seen to be close to the optimum possible for the time-space area enclosed according to quantum theory. Our methodology of machine design enables the sensor to be reconfigurable on the fly, and when scaled up, offers the potential to make state-of-the art inertial and gravitational sensors that will have a wide range of potential applications.

The effects of various additives (Y2O3, Ga2O3, and WO3) on photocatalytic degradation efficiency under UV light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and the optical properties of TiO2 Degussa P25 were investigated using ketoprofen and diclofenac, two non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs commonly detected in German rivers. Experimental results demonstrated that thin films containing these additives exhibited similar photocatalytic degradation efficiencies as pure TiO2, achieving a 30% degradation of ketoprofen over 150 min. In contrast, the Y2O3/TiO2 thin film showed significantly improved performance, achieving a 46% degradation of ketoprofen in 180 min. Notably, the Y2O3/TiO2 system was three times more effective in degrading diclofenac compared to pure TiO2. Additionally, the Y2O3/TiO2 photocatalyst retained its activity over three successive cycles with only a slight decrease in efficiency. The photocatalytic degradation of both organic pollutants followed first-order kinetics with all photocatalysts. The investigation included SEM imaging to assess the surface homogeneity of the thin films and UV-vis solid-state spectroscopy to evaluate the impact of the additives on the energy band gap of TiO2.

With a growing number of PCMs and new, suitable PCM candidates, an overview is not only important, but also increasingly complex. Classification of PCM was thus changed significantly in the past decades. A review of classification of PCMs from recent years shows that not only different classification criteria are used, but more important that they are often mixed, used inconsistently, even without a clear goal. Focusing on the main goal of current classification schemes, to give an overview of the material options for the search for new, suitable PCM candidates, including already established PCMs, a consistent classification is developed in a desktop study. For this, first, the general options for classification criteria are reviewed, and then the appropriate ones selected. Then, based on them a new, revised PCM classification is suggested. It is specifically detailed with regard to mixtures; for binary mixtures it is based on a literature review performed within the study. The result also stresses the importance of specific R&D: for pure substances the sources and the chemical modification, and for mixtures their optimization by new compositions, additives, etc.

Abstract All climate models project a weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) strength in response to greenhouse gas forcing. However, the climate impacts of the AMOC decline alone cannot be isolated from other drivers of climate change using existing Coupled Model Intercomparison Project simulations. To address this issue, we conduct idealized experiments using the EC‐Earth3 climate model. We compare an abrupt 4×CO2 simulation with the same experiment, except we artificially fix the AMOC strength at preindustrial levels. With this design, we can formally attribute differences in climate change impacts between these two experiments to the AMOC decline. In addition, we quantify the state‐dependence of AMOC impacts by comparing the aforementioned experiments with a preindustrial simulation in which we artificially reduce the AMOC strength. Our findings demonstrate that AMOC decline impacts are state‐dependent, thus understanding AMOC impacts on future climate change requires targeted model experiments.

Abstract INTRODUCTION There are few widely‐available, evidence‐based options to support quality of life (QOL) for people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. METHODS We performed a randomized, controlled trial with a Waitlist control group to determine whether an online, livestream, mind‐body, group movement program (Moving Together, 1 hour, 2 days/week, 12 weeks) improves QOL in people with cognitive impairment (PWCI) or care partners (CPs) and explore mechanisms of action. The primary outcome for both participants was self‐reported QOL. Secondary outcomes and potential mediators included mobility, isolation, well‐being, cognitive function, and sleep in PWCI and burden, positive emotions, caregiver self‐efficacy, stress management, and sleep in CPs. Blinded assessors collected outcome data at baseline, 12, and 24 weeks. We assessed adverse events including falls through monthly check‐in surveys and collected qualitative data through evaluation surveys. Intention‐to‐treat analyses used linear mixed models to compare mean change over time between groups and calculated standardized effect sizes (ESs). RESULTS Ninety‐seven dyads enrolled (PWCI: age 76 ± 11 years, 43% female, 80% non‐Hispanic White; CPs: age 66 ± 12 years, 78% female, 71% non‐Hispanic White); 15% withdrew before 12 weeks and 22% before 24 weeks. PWCI self‐reported significantly better QOL from baseline to 12 weeks in the Moving Together group compared to the Waitlist group (ES = 0.474, p = 0.048) and CPs self‐reported improved ability to manage stress (ES = 0.484, p = 0.021). Improvements in participant self‐reported QOL were mediated by improvements in their self‐reported well‐being and CP‐reported ability to manage stress. Results were similar when the Waitlist group participated in the program (QOL ES = 0.663, p = 0.006; stress management ES = 0.742, p = 0.002) and were supported by qualitative data. Exploratory analyses suggested possible fall reduction in PWCI. There were no study‐related serious adverse events. DISCUSSION Online programs such as Moving Together offer a scalable strategy for supporting high QOL for PWCI and helping CPs manage stress. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04621448 Highlights The approval of new medications that slow cognitive decline in people living with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders (ADRD) has raised hope and excitement. However, these medications do not appear to impact quality of life, which is often considered by patients and care partners to be the most important outcome. In this randomized clinical trial, we found that an evidence‐based, online, livestream, mind‐body, group movement program significantly and meaningfully improves self‐rated quality of life in people with ADRD and helps care partners manage stress. Mediation analyses revealed that the key drivers of improvements in participants’ quality of life were improvements in their feelings of well‐being and care partners’ ability to manage stress. Exploratory analyses also suggested a 30% reduction in falls. These results are important because they suggest that an online program, which is available now and can be performed by people from the comfort of home or other location of choice, could be recommended as a complement or alternative to new therapies to help maximize quality of life for people living with ADRD and their care partners.

Loss of elastin due to aging, disease, or injury can lead to impaired tissue function. In this study, de novo tropoelastin (TE) synthesis is investigated in vitro and in vivo using different TE-encoding synthetic mRNA variants after codon optimization and nucleotide modification. Codon optimization shows a strong effect on protein synthesis without affecting cell viability in vitro, whereas nucleotide modifications strongly modulate translation and reduce cell toxicity. Selected TE mRNA variants (3, 10, and 30 μg) are then analyzed in vivo in porcine skin after intradermal application. Administration of 30 μg of native TE mRNA with a me1 Ψ modification or 10 and 30 μg of unmodified codon-optimized TE mRNA is required to increase TE protein expression in vivo. In contrast, just 3 μg of a codon-optimized TE mRNA variant with the me1 Ψ modification is able to increase protein expression. Furthermore, skin toxicity is investigated in vitro by injecting 30 μg of mRNA of selected TE mRNA variants into a human full-thickness skin model, and no toxic effects are observed. Thereby, for the first time, an increased dermal TE synthesis by exogenous administration of synthetic mRNA is demonstrated in vivo. Codon optimization of a synthetic mRNA can significantly increase protein expression and therapeutic outcome.

Abstract Immune checkpoint blockade therapy is beneficial and even curative for some cancer patients. However, the majority don’t respond to immune therapy. Across different tumor types, pre-existing T cell infiltrates predict response to checkpoint-based immunotherapy. Based on in vitro pharmacological studies, mouse models and analyses of human melanoma patients, we show that the cytokine GDF-15 impairs LFA-1/β2-integrin-mediated adhesion of T cells to activated endothelial cells, which is a pre-requisite of T cell extravasation. In melanoma patients, GDF-15 serum levels strongly correlate with failure of PD-1-based immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Neutralization of GDF-15 improves both T cell trafficking and therapy efficiency in murine tumor models. Thus GDF-15, beside its known role in cancer-related anorexia and cachexia, emerges as a regulator of T cell extravasation into the tumor microenvironment, which provides an even stronger rationale for therapeutic anti-GDF-15 antibody development.

In the presented studies, a system for the characterization of planar photocatalysts was developed and tested. In the system, reference substances can be studied online with regard to their degradability and adsorption on photocatalytic materials. In order to perform accurate calculations of the quantum and photon efficiency of the catalysts, the LED arrays used were adjusted in their spacing by simulations so that a homogeneous light field is imaged on the catalysts. The system was tested with respect to measurement accuracy and reproducibility and the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue, methyl orange and rhodamine B was investigated. Exemplarily, the reaction kinetics, photolysis and adsorption on the tested photocatalysts were determined for these compounds and the calculation was presented in detail. The exact construction plans and circuits as well as the sensors and their programming are presented in detail and should encourage other scientists to replicate the experimental setup, since especially in the field of photocatalysis research, often the results of publications cannot be compared with each other.

Floating immobilized spherical titanium dioxide catalysts were used to degrade micro-pollutants by solar photocatalysis. The degradation of the micro-pollutants was performed in the secondary effluent of a wastewater treatment plant. During the experimental period, the continuous measurement of the solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation intensity was performed. The micro-pollutants were degraded to an average of 55% after 9 h of irradiation. A substance-specific degradation affinity was found, whereby degradation rates varied by a factor of up to 3.5. The substance-specific adsorption behavior was identified as a major limitation of the reaction performance. With an increasing influence of adsorption limitation, the degradation kinetics changed from the pseudo-first order to pseudo-zero order. A correlation between degradation rate and solar irradiance could only be found for substances with high degradation/adsorption affinity. For diclofenac, a 95% degradation rate could be achieved at a radiation dose of approximately 190 mWh/m². The investigated technology represents a promising possibility for a minimally invasive extension of wastewater treatment plants. Possibilities of implication were estimated and discussed within this work, whereby possibilities arise for large-scale as well as decentral treatment plants. HIGHLIGHTS Novelty floatable TiO2 catalysts for the micro-pollutant treatment in wastewater.; Evaluation of reaction rates of micro-pollutants during solar photocatalysis.; Correlation of individual reaction rate constants to measured UV-A radiation.; Extrapolation of the cleaning performance of the micro-pollutant removal process.;

This study aimed to characterize the safety and efficacy of DC-CIK therapy in two patients with previously treated chronic lymphocytic leukemia or peritoneal cancer, respectively. Participants had received conventional chemotherapy treatment for their specific cancers, and in addition, 1–2 treatments of DC-CIK therapy were administered to subjects over the course of 1 year. Subject A received an initial dosage of 3 intravenous infusions of DC-CIK therapy on three successive days and a repeat dosage 6 months later. Subject B received an initial dosage of 3 intravenous infusions of DC-CIK therapy on three successive days and received further chemotherapy after approximately 1 year. No treatment-related adverse events were reported, and both patients experienced favorable outcomes from the treatment, including enhanced treatment response, increased chemotherapy tolerance, and prolonged survival in comparison to typical 5-year survival rates.

Pseudomonas putida has been engineered to produce medium chain length oleochemicals, including medium chain length free fatty acids and their ester forms, compounds which may be useful as biodiesel blending agents.

Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy-based tissue metabolomics is used to define detailed temporal signatures of acute and chronic inflammation in cutaneous delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction.

In this work, relationships for enthalpy changes and entropy changes associated with phase transitions, specifically for alkanes, alcohols, and fatty acids, were investigated. For each homologous series, linear correlations were observed between: enthalpy and entropy change, enthalpy change and number of carbon atoms, and entropy change and number of carbon atoms. The observed correlations are explained in terms of the molecular structure, especially the functional group. For a given number of carbon atoms, common behavior regarding enthalpy change (and entropy change) was also observed if the functional group changed, for alcohols, even for multiple functional groups, and for alkanes, even if branched. The investigations thus show general, common phase change behavior, and significantly improve the empirical description and theoretical understanding.

Immobilized titanium dioxide catalysts were used within a photocatalytic immersion rotary body reactor, which was connected to a substream ozonation unit to remove micro-pollutants from wastewater. Within this work data on the behavior of cumulative parameters during treatment of wastewater by photocatalysis and photocatalytic ozonation are provided. The investigated parameters are spectral absorption coefficient at 254 nm (SAC254), total organic carbon (TOC) and chemical oxygen demand (COD). All experiments were carried out using secondary effluent from the same wastewater treatment plant. For the parameter SAC254, consistent concentration curves and dependencies to operational parameters of the experimental system could be measured. The measurements of the parameters TOC and COD showed greater uncertainties, although basic trends could nonetheless be observed. A good linear correlation (R2 < 0.85) between the reduction of SAC254 and 8 micro-pollutants for photocatalysis and photocatalytic ozonation was found. This confirms the suitability of the SAC254 as a control parameter for a large-scale application of a photocatalytic 4th treatment stage. A linear correlation between measured TOC and COD degradation rates was possible with a coefficient of determination of 0.58–0.86. The simultaneous decrease of TOC and COD is an indicator for a mineralization of the treated wastewater matrix. HIGHLIGHTS Correlation of SAC with micro-pollutant degradation during photocatalytic ozonation.; Behavior of SAC, TOC, and COD in carrier-bound photocatalytic ozonation.; Correlation of TOC and COD in carrier-bound photocatalytic ozonation.;

Emulsifiers are essential for cosmetic products: They facilitate the incorporation of both hydrophilic (water-soluble) and lipophilic (oil-soluble) components into a formulation, support the formation and stability of emulsions and are also used to influence their consistency and texture. High performance, primarily petrochemical-derived ethylene oxide (EO)-based emulsifiers, have long been used, but in recent years, the growing trend towards natural cosmetics has driven demand for emulsifiers that meet sustainability claims. Formulators are thereby faced with the challenge of using sustainable ingredients without compromising on performance. Polyglyceryl-based emulsifiers derived from 100% renewable feedstocks and manufactured in accordance with green chemistry principles, have the capability of catering to these demands. Various studies with formulations highlighting two different natural-based polyglyceryl-based emulsifiers showed that it is possible to develop formulations with a performance comparable to that of formulations containing the high performing petrochemical-based ethoxylate emulsifiers. The results demonstrate that the new emulsifiers can help formulators to further expand their natural-based cosmetics product range and support the industry's shift towards more eco-friendly solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate variability on centennial timescales has often been linked to internal variability of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). However, due to the scarceness of suitable paleoclimate proxies and long climate model simulations, large uncertainties remain on the magnitude and physical mechanisms driving centennial‐scale AMOC variability. For these reasons, we perform a systematic multi‐model comparison of centennial‐scale AMOC variability in pre‐industrial control simulations of state‐of‐the‐art global climate models. Six out of nine models in this study exhibit a statistically significant mode of centennial‐scale AMOC variability. Our results show that freshwater exchanges between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic provide a plausible driving mechanism in a subset of models, and that AMOC variability can be amplified by ocean–sea ice feedbacks in the Labrador Sea. The amplifying mechanism is linked to sea ice cover biases, which could provide an observational constraint for centennial‐scale AMOC variability. Plain Language Summary: Changes in ocean circulation are often proposed as drivers of natural variations of the Earth's climate on timescales of centuries. However, it is unclear how strong these natural variations of the circulation strength, called internal variability, are in the real world, because reconstructions from the past climate are sparse and climate models are expensive to run for these long timescales. Here, we compare how the latest generation of climate models simulate internal variability of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)—the ocean circulation that is often thought to be responsible for Europe's comparatively mild climate—on timescales of 100–250 years. We find that many models have stronger variability on these timescales than what would be expected simply from random noise. In several models, AMOC variability appears to be driven by the release of fresh water from the Arctic Ocean and amplified by intermittent sea ice cover in the North Atlantic. However, this amplification only occurs if a model simulates a too extensive sea ice cover in winter. This mechanism shows that sea ice cover—which is easily observable—could be used to constrain variability of the AMOC on timescales longer than the observational record. Key Points: We present a robust multi‐model comparison of internal centennial‐scale AMOC variability in state‐of‐the‐art climate modelsA robust mechanism of Arctic–North Atlantic freshwater exchange is identified only in models that use the NEMO ocean componentSea ice cover biases in convective regions of the North Atlantic amplify AMOC variability and could provide an observational constraint [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: People commonly cope with chronic low back pain (cLBP) by ignoring and distraction. Can mindful interoceptive exposure to the pain sensation itself and its phenomenological components be an alternative approach? Methods: Single-arm feasibility study in patients with cLBP using a 2-minute attention exercise guided by a smartphone app several times per day over 8 weeks. We assessed feasibility, pre/post pain, function, and psychological parameters using mixed methods: standard questionnaires, ecological momentary assessment, and exit interviews that included micro-phenomenology technique and subsequent reflexive thematic qualitative analysis. Results: We enrolled 31 participants, mostly female, mean age 48, the majority had pain for >5 years; 29 completed. Mean pain intensity [0–10] improved from 4.8 ±1.7 to 3.1 ±1.9 (p <.0001); mean PEG scores (intensity and interference with daily life; range 0–30) improved from 13.7 ±6.2 to 8.4 ±6.6 (p <.0001); pain impact (9 items incl physical function) 22.3 ±8.7 to 19.7 ±8.1 (p =.0010). Twenty-one of 29 improved PEG score ≥30%. There were significant improvements in PCS Rumination and MAIA Not-Worrying. Participants became aware of their usual habit of avoidance and the challenge of and resistance to focusing on pain. They were surprised how pain sensations varied over time, and that pain intensity and the threat value of pain could diminish by focusing on it. They described a variety of 3D pain shapes (e.g., football, pool ball, rod, nail, brick, stars) with a range of colors, transparency, temperature, and density that for some changed with mindful attention. Most struggled to find appropriate words for sensory awareness and attention regulation and found that the threat value of their pain diminished. Conclusions: Mindful interoceptive exposure to the sensations of their cLBP using a 2-minute attention exercise with a phone app—rather than ignoring and distracting from it—may be a beneficial intervention for cLBP. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT06186193. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic low back pain (cLBP) poses significant challenges, often addressed through avoidance or distraction. Emerging evidence suggests that mind-body interventions, like our novel Mind Your Pain (MyP) smartphone mobile application, may offer relief. We conducted a single-arm, mixedmethods neuroimaging study to assess the degree to which treatment response to our 8-week intervention, as measured by the reduction in the Pain, Enjoyment of Life and General Activity Scale (PEG), was associated with enhanced pain-related insula activation over time. Methods: Twenty-nine individuals with cLBP completed patient-reported assessments, qualitative sensory testing (QST) measures, and neuroimaging pre- and post-MyP. Functional MRI data during experimental heat pain on the left forearm were collected and analyzed, comparing responders (=50% reduction in PEG scores) and non-responders. Results: MyP led to significant decreases in PEG scores overall. Furthermore, MyP responders exhibited increased pain-related activation in key brain regions, including the contralateral posterior insula, bilateral ventral anterior insula, ventral anterior cingulate, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and nucleus accumbens. Although baseline behavioral and sensory measures did not differ between the two responder groups, baseline neural differences related to the impact of the endogenous back pain were observed. Discussion: MyP appears to modify pain response and underlying neural circuitry, suggesting neural changes in interoception may serve as biomarkers for mind-body interventions in cLBP. This study highlights the potential of MyP as a novel approach for cLBP management, warranting further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of various additives (Y2O3, Ga2O3, and WO3) on photocatalytic degradation efficiency under UV light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and the optical properties of TiO2 Degussa P25 were investigated using ketoprofen and diclofenac, two non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs commonly detected in German rivers. Experimental results demonstrated that thin films containing these additives exhibited similar photocatalytic degradation efficiencies as pure TiO2, achieving a 30% degradation of ketoprofen over 150 min. In contrast, the Y2O3/TiO2 thin film showed significantly improved performance, achieving a 46% degradation of ketoprofen in 180 min. Notably, the Y2O3/TiO2 system was three times more effective in degrading diclofenac compared to pure TiO2. Additionally, the Y2O3/TiO2 photocatalyst retained its activity over three successive cycles with only a slight decrease in efficiency. The photocatalytic degradation of both organic pollutants followed first-order kinetics with all photocatalysts. The investigation included SEM imaging to assess the surface homogeneity of the thin films and UV-vis solid-state spectroscopy to evaluate the impact of the additives on the energy band gap of TiO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a growing number of PCMs and new, suitable PCM candidates, an overview is not only important, but also increasingly complex. Classification of PCM was thus changed significantly in the past decades. A review of classification of PCMs from recent years shows that not only different classification criteria are used, but more important that they are often mixed, used inconsistently, even without a clear goal. Focusing on the main goal of current classification schemes, to give an overview of the material options for the search for new, suitable PCM candidates, including already established PCMs, a consistent classification is developed in a desktop study. For this, first, the general options for classification criteria are reviewed, and then the appropriate ones selected. Then, based on them a new, revised PCM classification is suggested. It is specifically detailed with regard to mixtures; for binary mixtures it is based on a literature review performed within the study. The result also stresses the importance of specific R&D: for pure substances the sources and the chemical modification, and for mixtures their optimization by new compositions, additives, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carrier-bound titanium dioxide catalysts were used in a photocatalytic ozonation reactor for the degradation of micro-pollutants in real wastewater. A photocatalytic immersion rotary body reactor with a 36-cm disk diameter was used, and was irradiated using UV-A light-emitting diodes. The rotating disks were covered with catalysts based on stainless steel grids coated with titanium dioxide. The dosing of ozone was carried out through the liquid phase via an external enrichment and a supply system transverse to the flow direction. The influence of irradiation power and ozone dose on the degradation rate for photocatalytic ozonation was investigated. In addition, the performance of the individual processes photocatalysis and ozonation were studied. The degradation kinetics of the parent compounds were determined using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. First-order kinetics were determined for photocatalysis and photocatalytic ozonation. A maximum reaction rate of the reactor was determined, which could be achieved by both photocatalysis and photocatalytic ozonation. At a dosage of 0.4 mg /mg DOC, the maximum reaction rate could be achieved using 75% of the irradiation power used for sole photocatalysis, allowing increases in the energetic efficiency of photocatalytic wastewater treatment processes. The process of photocatalytic ozonation is suitable to remove a wide spectrum of micro-pollutants from wastewater. HIGHLIGHT Within the work, reaction rates for the degradation of micro-pollutants in real wastewater matrix are presented. due to the number of investigated pollutants as well as the practical investigation conditions, a more precise evaluation of the use of photocatalysis and photocatalytic ozonation for wastewater treatment is possible.;

Abstract Background High normal resting pCO2 is a risk factor for salt sensitivity of blood pressure (BP) in normotensive humans and has been associated with higher resting systolic BP in postmenopausal women. To date, however, no known studies have investigated the effects of regular practice of voluntary mild hypocapnic breathing on BP in hypertensive patients. The objective of the present research was to test the hypothesis that capnometric feedback training can decrease both resting pCO2 and 24-h BP in a series of mildly hypertensive postmenopausal women. Methods A small portable end tidal CO2 (etCO2) monitor was constructed and equipped with software that determined the difference between the momentary etCO2 and a pre-programmed criterion range. The monitor enabled auditory feedback for variations in CO2 outside the criterion range. 16 mildly hypertensive postmenopausal women were individually trained to sustain small decreases in etCO2 during six weekly sessions in the clinic and daily sessions at home. 24-h BP monitoring was conducted before and after the intervention, and in 16 prehypertensive postmenopausal women in a control group who did not engage in the capnometric training. Results Following the intervention, all 16 capnometric training participants showed decreases in resting etCO2 (− 4.3 ± 0.4 mmHg; p