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Photodynamic therapy is an emerging tumor therapy that kills tumor cells by activating reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by photosensitizers. Mitochondria, as an important organelle, are the main generator of cellular ROS. Therefore, the development of photosensitizers capable of targeting mitochondria could significantly enhance the efficacy of photodynamic therapy. In this study, two novel ruthenium(II) complexes, Ru-1 and Ru-2, were designed and synthesized, both of which were functionalized with α,β-unsaturated ketones for sensing of glutathione (GSH). The crystal structures of the two complexes were determined and they exhibited good recognition of GSH by off–on luminescence signals. The complex Ru-2 containing aromatic naphthalene can enter the cells and react with GSH to generate a strong luminescence signal that can be used to monitor intracellular GSH levels through imaging. Ru-2 also has an excellent mitochondrial localization ability with a Pearson's coefficient of 0.95, which demonstrates that it can efficiently target the mitochondria of tumor cells to enhance the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy as a photosensitizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article deals with the robust planar rigid formation control problem of three second‐order coleaders with unknown flowfields acting on the velocity and acceleration respectively. To yield the uniform boundedness property of the resulting system, an adaptive projection is introduced to design the novel adaptive neural control law. To avoid the derivatives of Gaussian functions of neural networks, dynamic surface is used. Simulation results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feasibility of a tubercled leading-edge in dynamic stall control has been validated, and the impacts of an upstream cylinder wake have already been discussed in the previous research. However, the influences of wake coherent characteristics on the dynamic stall process are inevitable. To this end, the synthetic turbulence method was adopted in the present study to generate incoming turbulence. The suppression of dynamic stall could be observed according to the shrink of hysteresis loop of aerodynamic lift. Then, the dynamic stall mechanisms have been analyzed with the help of mode decomposition method. The emergence and development of the leading-edge vortex indicate the increase in aerodynamic lift, while he detachment of dynamic stall vortex leads to the lift degradation during the onset of dynamic stall. Eventually, the influence of turbulence intensity (TI) has also been discussed through the comparison of TI = 5% and TI = 10% cases. It turns out that flow separation is more remarkable at both peak and trough sections in the case of TI = 5%, which is intrinsically caused by the suppression of resistance of adverse pressure gradient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser‐driven phosphor‐converted white‐laser diodes are supposed to be next‐generation high‐brightness lighting sources for their unparalleled photoelectric efficiency and light quality, yet a significant obstacle hitherto has resided in the shortage and serious laser‐induced luminescence saturation of red emitters. Here, a hot‐pressing synthesis route to obtain high‐performance red‐emitting cordierite (Mg2Al4Si5O18:Eu2+) ceramic is developed, which enables the in situ formation of bulk specimens with high crystallinity (>90%) from the counterpart glass powders. A preeminent saturation threshold of 21 W mm−2 is realized in a red‐emitting Mg2Al4Si5O18:Eu2+ ceramic film converter. More importantly, the luminous exitance reaches 209 lm mm−2, which is 5 times that of commercial red phosphor‐converted‐LED, indicating breakthrough progress in the comprehensive light‐emitting performance of red converters. This work innovates the solid‐state synthesis of laser bulk converters from glass to meet the demanding requirements of advanced warm white laser lighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction mechanism between grouted anchor cables and the surrounding rock mass or soil are complicated and difficult to investigate using conventional monitoring technologies. This study focuses on the in-situ pullout behavior of grouted anchor cables using Brillouin Optical Time-Domain Analysis technique. A series of pullout tests were conducted on anchor cables with five different anchor lengths and three grouting methods. Distributed fiber optic sensors were used to measure the strain distribution of cable bolts from tip to top. The in-situ pullout test results show that both ultimate pullout resistance and ultimate displacement at the ultimate pullout resistance increase with anchor length. The bond strength suffers a slight variation with an increase in anchor length. Both ultimate pullout resistance and the ultimate displacement for Type-B grouting (grouting with reaming) and Type-C grouting (secondary grouting) are larger than those for Type-A grouting (one-time grouting). The shear bond strength of Type-C grouting is greater than that of Type-A grouting. Results from Gaussian functions analysis show that it is feasible to use the function to characterize the axial stress of anchor cables. Furthermore, the overall mobilized percentage η was evaluated. The anchor cables with smaller anchor lengths will result in greater η. The η for the anchor cables of 6 m reaches 92% at the last load, whereas the anchor cables of 18 m were mobilized by only 29% at the last load. The grouting method has a negligible effect on the η, increasing from 22% to 29% in process of the pullout test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixed-flow pumps have been widely used in water jet propulsion field. To ensure reliability and operation efficiency, it is necessary to investigate the characteristics of hydraulic excitation force during transient operations. In this paper, the radial force of a water jet mixed-flow pump during rapid startup period was investigated numerically based on improved delayed detached eddy simulation (IDDES) and siding mesh method, the external characteristics were verified by test results. The spatial-temporal evolution of radial force was analyzed. The radial force during rapid startup presents transient and delay phenomenon, which shows disparity compared with quasi-steady state. The flow analysis and blade strip analysis show inlet recirculation significantly affects the radial force's evolution, the radial force is quite different from blade root to tip and the blade tip contributes most to the radial force delay phenomenon. By applying boundary vorticity flux (BVF) theory and separation vortex formation diagnosis, separation regions caused by the dissipation of inlet recirculation were effectively identified and the change trend is in line with the change of radial force, which explains how inlet recirculation results the delay of radial force on blade tip strip and the whole impeller blade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spreading the formic acid (HCOOH) fuel cells demands a better anode electrocatalyst for the oxidation of formic acid. The catalytic efficiency of platinum (Pt)– the only choice of practicability, is mainly limited by its intrinsic affinity to CO, thus desiring a proper release. Herein, theoretical calculations are first leveraged to find that the introduction of iridium (Ir) can facilitate HCOOH oxidation with robust CO tolerance through a dehydrogenation pathway. Then, this strategy experimentally by designing a new trimetallic catalyst of 2D porous PtIrBi nanoplates (p‐PtIrBi NPs) is implemented. The optimized p‐PtIrBi NPs/C exhibits a very high mass activity of 8.2 A mg−1pt and a high retention rate of 55.9% after the durability test, which is among the best formic acid oxidation catalysts reported to date, much higher than those of PtIrBi NPs/C, PtBi NPs/C, and Pt/C. The CO‐stripping and in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) experiments collectively evidence that two types of due site, i.e., "Pt‐Bi" and "Ir‐Bi", endow the catalyst with suppressed CO‐poisoning property to achieve super‐high activity and stability for formic acid oxidation reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design and construction of cast-in situ piles rely heavily on the proper evaluation of the end-bearing and skin friction behavior of piles by in situ loading test. In this study, distributed fiber optic sensors based on the Brillouin optical frequency domain analysis sensing technique were employed to determine continuous force and displacement distributions along cast-in situ piles subject to a compressive load (CBP) and a pullout load (PBP). The results showed that the axial forces for both the CBP and PBP increase with increasing load level at the same depth, and the load transfer path is from the pile head to the pile bottom. The maximum compression and elongation occur in the pile head, decreasing with the embedded depth of the pile. For the CBP, the contributions of skin friction at the fill layer, silty clay layer, and sandy clay layer decrease with an increase in the applied load. The shaft resistances of all strata except the strongly weathered rock layer show strain-softening behavior. The contribution of the tip bearing resistance is dominant after the applied load of 5580 kN. However, the contributions of skin friction at all soil strata for the PBP fluctuate as the applied load increases. The shaft resistances of all strata show strain-hardening behavior, and the base axial stress is smaller than the overall skin resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal sulfides and their hybrids are promising alternative to precious metal catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, the high-density Co 9 S 8 nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in N-doped carbon has been prepared by using surface-engineered zeolitic imidazolate framework-9 (ZIF-9) nanosheets as precursor. The surface of ZIF-9 was modified with TAA, which is able to create chemical barrier and prevents metal from aggregation in the subsequent pyrolysis, thus making small Co 9 S 8 NPs densely anchored on carbon layers. Arising from the unique structure, Co 9 S 8 @NC affords an optimized electronic structure and rich effective reactive sites for OER. As expected, Co 9 S 8 @NC exhibits small overpotential of 264 mV at 10 mA cm−2, low Tafel slope of 68.4 mV dec−1, and superior stability for alkaline OER (0.1 M KOH). The electrolysis cell, which was equipped with Co 9 S 8 @NC cathode and Pt/C anode, shows low water splitting voltage of 1.58 V at 10 mA cm−2 in 1.0 M KOH. This work employs an efficacious surface engineering strategy to design metal sulfide-based electrocatalysts for enhancing OER performance. Co 9 S 8 @NC was synthesized through carbonization of surface-engineered 2D MOF. Co 9 S 8 @NC exhibits high OER activity with low overpotential of 264 mV in 0.1 M KOH due to the high-density reactive sites. [Display omitted] • Co 9 S 8 @NC was obtained through carbonization of surface-engineered ZIF-9. • High-density Co 9 S 8 nanoparticles are supported on N-doped carbon. • Co 9 S 8 @NC exhibits excellent performance for OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streamlined weirs, which are a nature-inspired type of weir, have gained tremendous attention among hydraulic engineers, mainly owing to their established performance with high discharge coefficients. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is considered as a robust tool to predict the discharge coefficient. To bypass the computational cost of CFD-based assessment, the present study proposes data-driven modeling techniques, as an alternative to CFD simulation, to predict the discharge coefficient based on an experimental dataset. To this end, after splitting the dataset using a k-fold cross-validation technique, the performance assessment of classical and hybrid machine learning–deep learning (ML-DL) algorithms is undertaken. Among ML techniques, linear regression (LR), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbor (KNN) and decision tree (DT) algorithms are studied. In the context of DL, long short-term memory (LSTM), convolutional neural network (CNN) and gated recurrent unit (GRU), and their hybrid forms, such as LSTM-GRU, CNN-LSTM and CNN-GRU techniques, are compared using different error metrics. It is found that the proposed three-layer hierarchical DL algorithm, consisting of a convolutional layer coupled with two subsequent GRU levels, which is also hybridized with the LR method (i.e. LR-CGRU), leads to lower error metrics. This paper paves the way for data-driven modeling of streamlined weirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered double hydroxide (LDH) has emerged as a promising electrocatalyst; however, the synthetic method usually requires high temperature and high pressure, and sulfate-intercalated LDH is rarely reported. Herein, the sulfate-intercalated CoFe LDH nanosheets were successfully fabricated at ambient temperature via a facile strategy, using two-dimensional ZIF-9(III) as a template and FeSO4 as both etchant and iron source. When the as-prepared sulfate-intercalated CoFe LDH acts as an electrocatalyst, it presents superior electrocatalytic performance for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), requiring low overpotential (η@10 mA cm−2 = 218 mV) with a small Tafel slope of 59.9 mV dec−1 in 1.0 M KOH, which compares favorably with commercial RuO2 and most reported transition-metal electrocatalysts. The high catalytic activity of CoFe LDH might be ascribed to the large interlayer space distance originating from special SO42− ions and the strong synergistic effects between Fe and Co. This work provides a novel and feasible approach to designing highly efficient electrocatalysts based on advanced LDH materials for OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A tunable and efficient strategy was adopted to synthesize highly porous nano-structured CuO−carbonized composites (CuxO@C) using Cu3(BTC)2 as a sacrificial template. The as-synthesized CuO nanocomposites exhibited hollow octahedral structures, a large surface area (89.837 m2 g−1) and a high proportion of Cu2O active sites distributed on a carbon frame. Based on DFT calculations, both the Cu atoms on the surface (CuS) and oxygen vacancy (OV) exhibited strong chemical reactivity. On the perfect CuO (111), the CuS transferred charge to O atoms on the surface and SO2 molecules. A strong adsorption energy (−1.41 eV) indicated the existence of the chemisorption process. On the oxygen-deficient CuO (111), the O2 preferably adsorbed on OV and then formed SO3 by bonding with SO2, followed by the cleavage of the O−O bond. Furthermore, the CuO nanocomposites exhibited an excellent ratio of S/Cu in SO2 removal experiments compared with CuO nanoparticles produced by coprecipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study aims to compare morphology and location of crystalline lens between acute acquired concomitant esotropia (AACE) patients and control subjects, both before and after cycloplegia.This is a prospective and observational clinical study. Morphological and locational parameters of the crystalline lens in 53 AACE patients and 32 control subjects were assessed before and after cycloplegia using CASIA2 system, which represents the latest swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Cycloplegic refraction was recorded by administering 1% atropine in patients younger than 12 years and 1% cyclopentolate in those > 12 years old. Morphological parameters included anterior radius of curvature (ARC), posterior radius of curvature (PRC), lens thickness (LTH), and equivalent diameter of lens (LED). Locational parameters comprised lens decentration (LD) and lens tilt (LT). Comparison of these parameters before and after cycloplegia were conducted between AACE and controls. Additionally, the study analyzed and compared the changes in these parameter post-cycloplegia.Our findings suggest no significant difference in morphological parameters including ARC, PRC, LTH and LED between AACE patients and controls before or after cycloplegia. However, 2D-modeling data in the 0° meridian revealed that variation post-cycloplegia of LD (lens shift) in right eyes was different in AACE patients, measuring − 0.03(0.08) [median(interquartile range)] which was significantly distinct from the control group, exhibiting a measurement of 0.01(0.06) (z =  − 2.373, p = 0.018). In left eyes, a similar trend was observed with lens shift in the 0° meridian being 0.02(0.06) in AACE, significantly differing from control group's measurement of − 0.02(0.08) (z =  − 2.809, p = 0.005). Further, correlation analysis revealed that larger temporal shift of lens was associated with greater changes in ARC (r = 0.294, p = 0.006) and LTH (r =  − 0.230, p = 0.031).The morphological features of the crystalline lens were similar in AACE patients and controls; however, the change of lens location by cycloplegia was observed only in AACE patients, suggesting an association with excessive accommodation.Methods: The study aims to compare morphology and location of crystalline lens between acute acquired concomitant esotropia (AACE) patients and control subjects, both before and after cycloplegia.This is a prospective and observational clinical study. Morphological and locational parameters of the crystalline lens in 53 AACE patients and 32 control subjects were assessed before and after cycloplegia using CASIA2 system, which represents the latest swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Cycloplegic refraction was recorded by administering 1% atropine in patients younger than 12 years and 1% cyclopentolate in those > 12 years old. Morphological parameters included anterior radius of curvature (ARC), posterior radius of curvature (PRC), lens thickness (LTH), and equivalent diameter of lens (LED). Locational parameters comprised lens decentration (LD) and lens tilt (LT). Comparison of these parameters before and after cycloplegia were conducted between AACE and controls. Additionally, the study analyzed and compared the changes in these parameter post-cycloplegia.Our findings suggest no significant difference in morphological parameters including ARC, PRC, LTH and LED between AACE patients and controls before or after cycloplegia. However, 2D-modeling data in the 0° meridian revealed that variation post-cycloplegia of LD (lens shift) in right eyes was different in AACE patients, measuring − 0.03(0.08) [median(interquartile range)] which was significantly distinct from the control group, exhibiting a measurement of 0.01(0.06) (z =  − 2.373, p = 0.018). In left eyes, a similar trend was observed with lens shift in the 0° meridian being 0.02(0.06) in AACE, significantly differing from control group's measurement of − 0.02(0.08) (z =  − 2.809, p = 0.005). Further, correlation analysis revealed that larger temporal shift of lens was associated with greater changes in ARC (r = 0.294, p = 0.006) and LTH (r =  − 0.230, p = 0.031).The morphological features of the crystalline lens were similar in AACE patients and controls; however, the change of lens location by cycloplegia was observed only in AACE patients, suggesting an association with excessive accommodation.Results: The study aims to compare morphology and location of crystalline lens between acute acquired concomitant esotropia (AACE) patients and control subjects, both before and after cycloplegia.This is a prospective and observational clinical study. Morphological and locational parameters of the crystalline lens in 53 AACE patients and 32 control subjects were assessed before and after cycloplegia using CASIA2 system, which represents the latest swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Cycloplegic refraction was recorded by administering 1% atropine in patients younger than 12 years and 1% cyclopentolate in those > 12 years old. Morphological parameters included anterior radius of curvature (ARC), posterior radius of curvature (PRC), lens thickness (LTH), and equivalent diameter of lens (LED). Locational parameters comprised lens decentration (LD) and lens tilt (LT). Comparison of these parameters before and after cycloplegia were conducted between AACE and controls. Additionally, the study analyzed and compared the changes in these parameter post-cycloplegia.Our findings suggest no significant difference in morphological parameters including ARC, PRC, LTH and LED between AACE patients and controls before or after cycloplegia. However, 2D-modeling data in the 0° meridian revealed that variation post-cycloplegia of LD (lens shift) in right eyes was different in AACE patients, measuring − 0.03(0.08) [median(interquartile range)] which was significantly distinct from the control group, exhibiting a measurement of 0.01(0.06) (z =  − 2.373, p = 0.018). In left eyes, a similar trend was observed with lens shift in the 0° meridian being 0.02(0.06) in AACE, significantly differing from control group's measurement of − 0.02(0.08) (z =  − 2.809, p = 0.005). Further, correlation analysis revealed that larger temporal shift of lens was associated with greater changes in ARC (r = 0.294, p = 0.006) and LTH (r =  − 0.230, p = 0.031).The morphological features of the crystalline lens were similar in AACE patients and controls; however, the change of lens location by cycloplegia was observed only in AACE patients, suggesting an association with excessive accommodation.Conclusions: The study aims to compare morphology and location of crystalline lens between acute acquired concomitant esotropia (AACE) patients and control subjects, both before and after cycloplegia.This is a prospective and observational clinical study. Morphological and locational parameters of the crystalline lens in 53 AACE patients and 32 control subjects were assessed before and after cycloplegia using CASIA2 system, which represents the latest swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Cycloplegic refraction was recorded by administering 1% atropine in patients younger than 12 years and 1% cyclopentolate in those > 12 years old. Morphological parameters included anterior radius of curvature (ARC), posterior radius of curvature (PRC), lens thickness (LTH), and equivalent diameter of lens (LED). Locational parameters comprised lens decentration (LD) and lens tilt (LT). Comparison of these parameters before and after cycloplegia were conducted between AACE and controls. Additionally, the study analyzed and compared the changes in these parameter post-cycloplegia.Our findings suggest no significant difference in morphological parameters including ARC, PRC, LTH and LED between AACE patients and controls before or after cycloplegia. However, 2D-modeling data in the 0° meridian revealed that variation post-cycloplegia of LD (lens shift) in right eyes was different in AACE patients, measuring − 0.03(0.08) [median(interquartile range)] which was significantly distinct from the control group, exhibiting a measurement of 0.01(0.06) (z =  − 2.373, p = 0.018). In left eyes, a similar trend was observed with lens shift in the 0° meridian being 0.02(0.06) in AACE, significantly differing from control group's measurement of − 0.02(0.08) (z =  − 2.809, p = 0.005). Further, correlation analysis revealed that larger temporal shift of lens was associated with greater changes in ARC (r = 0.294, p = 0.006) and LTH (r =  − 0.230, p = 0.031).The morphological features of the crystalline lens were similar in AACE patients and controls; however, the change of lens location by cycloplegia was observed only in AACE patients, suggesting an association with excessive accommodation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the seed layers on the magnetic properties of the giant magnetoresistance thin films has received a lot of attention. Here, a synthetic spin valve film stack with a wedge-shaped NiFeCr seed layer is deposited and annealed following a zero-field cooling procedure. The film crystallinity and magnetic properties are studied as a function of the NiFeCr seed layer thickness. It is found that the exchange coupling field from the IrMn/CoFe interface and the antiferromagnetic coupling field in the synthetic antiferromagnet both increase as the seed layer thickness increases, indicating the perfection of film texture. In this film, the critical thickness of the NiFeCr seed layer for the formation of the ordered IrMn3 texture is about 9.3 nm. Meanwhile, a reversal of the pinning direction in the film is observed at this critical thickness of NiFeCr. This phenomenon can be explained in a free energy model by the competition effect between the exchange coupling and the interlayer coupling during the annealing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steric interaction induced by internal-Ir sites benefits to regulate the d -bond center for Ir w -Co 3 O 4 @NC, achieving enhanced HER performance without degrading OER. [Display omitted] • The locations of Ir atom were tuned in doped Ir-Co 3 O 4 @NC. • Steric interaction of Ir atoms causes a weakened Ir-O bond and down shift of d -band center. • Ir w -Co 3 O 4 @NC exhibits enhanced HER and OER activity. Transition metal materials that loaded with trace of Iridium (Ir) are widely accepted as effective catalysts for oxygen evolution (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), in which the Ir atoms exposed on the surface can directly affect the electrocatalytic reaction. However, this neglects the Ir – Ir interaction of distinct locations, which may be benefit for the fine-tuning of electronic structure. Herein, we changed the locations (surface and inside) of Ir atoms in the cobalt oxide (Co 3 O 4 @NC), and investigated their alkaline OER and HER performances. Combined with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and theoretical calculations, we infer that the steric interaction induced by the surface – internal Ir sites can weaken the Ir-O bond and optimize the adsorption of intermediates on catalyst surface with a negative shift of d -band center, enabling the surface-Ir sites with lower energy barrier for water dissociation and hydrogen adsorption for HER. Therefore, the as-prepared Ir w -Co 3 O 4 @NC with surface − inside Ir distribution significantly improve the HER without degrading OER performance, with low overpotential of −173 / −71 mV for HER at −10 mA/cm2 in 0.1 M KOH / 1.0 M KOH, and 244 / 249 mV at 10 mA/cm2 for OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A double-interface CoFeB/MgO perpendicular tunnel magnetoresistance (p-TMR) structure has been proposed as a solution to improve the thermal stability of perpendicular magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ)-based devices. In this paper, we have investigated the performance of TMR film stacks by varying the thickness of the MgO cap layer. The resistance area (RA) product and TMR ratio are characterized using a current-in-plane tunneling system. Structural and physical analyses are performed using transmission electron microscopy and a superconducting quantum interference device. It is found that the sensing layer is able to exhibit a linear output and sensitivity up to 0.25% MR/Oe as the thickness of the MgO cap layer is lowered to 0.7 nm. The RA product increases as the thickness of the MgO cap layer decreases under 0.8 nm, which is attributed to oxidization of the CoFeB layer. This research provides a valuable direction to the optimization of double-interface CoFeB/MgO p-TMR and the sensor design in terms of linear magnetic field range and sensor RA product target for sensor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refractory waste is a typical industrial solid waste. Owing to technical reasons, most of the refractory waste is not efficiently utilized and causes environmental pollution. In this study, we explored a novel technology for the preparation of MgAlON based composite refractories using waste MgO-C and Al 2 O 3 -MgO-C refractory materials. The experimental results showed that higher sintering temperatures, enhanced the mechanics of the synthesized MgAlON based composite refractories. Its flexural strength and compressive strength reached 7.7 MPa and 15.87 MPa, respectively, as the sintering temperature increased to 1823 K. Additionally, the slag erosion resistance of the MgAlON based composite refractories was studied and was found to be significantly influenced by the temperature and duration of erosion. The erosion of MgAlON based composite refractories by metallurgical slag was controlled by a combination of chemical reaction and diffusion. The apparent activation energy of slag erosion was approximately 274.6 kJ/mol. During the erosion of MgAlON based composite refractories, the metallurgical slag mainly penetrated the material through its pores. The Si, Ca, and Ti elements in the slag diffused into MgAlON based composite refractories, whereas Mg and Al, diffused into the slag from the MgAlON based composite refractories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article traces sketches of China on the English stage from 1595 to 1637 and explores their relations with the early modern globalisation. By examining how China – both country and commodity – was imagined and staged in the period before England's first (failed) attempt to establish direct trade with China in 1637, it argues that China was for the English a means through which to project ambitious plans for commercial and cultural expansion, and the paradoxical image of China, admirable and contemptible, can offer a window on England's anxiety about its place in the structure of the early modern globalisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article author discusses definitions as starting points for exploring English playwright Ben Jonson's ideas about the interrelations of people, things and places. It further discusses various definitions of 'cosmopolitan' in the Oxford English Dictionary; emerging global interaction in the early modern period wrought by a global economic network centring on China; and the English cosmopolitan's fantasy of the baboons near China in "Volpone" play by Jonson.

Sustaining the steady state for highly active non‐stoichiometric iridium (Ir)‐based oxide (IrOx) at low Ir loading remains challenging primarily due to the continuous oxidation and sequent dissolution of Ir active sites during the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this context, a new iridium–cerium (Ce) substitution solid solution oxide (SSO) has been developed, featuring uniformly dispersed Ir atoms within Ce dioxide (CeO2) matrix as electron buffer, which delivers remarkable acidic OER catalytic activity and enhanced stability. The electron‐buffering capacity of CeO2 facilitates the charge transfer toward Ir atoms, leading to abundant active low‐valence Ir sites and effectively prevent their oxidation and dissolution. As a result, Ir─Ce SSO demonstrates an overpotential of merely 238 mV@10 mA cm−2. Proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer employing Ir─Ce SSO at a low Ir loading of 396 µgIr cm−2 operates consistently for over 100 h@500 mA cm−2. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations corroborate that the electron‐buffering effect of CeO2 enriches the density of IrIII and substantially increases the dissolution energy barrier of Ir atoms. This study presents a viable approach to addressing the issues of instability and low efficiency in Ir‐based OER electrocatalysts for acidic water electrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hereditary predisposition play an important role in thrombosis, especially in younger patients. Here we studied a young patient who experienced three different episodes of severe thromboses, some of which were life-threatening (pulmonary artery thrombosis, portal and mesenteric vein thrombosis, and arterial thrombosis of the lower leg). Blood levels of clotting related indicators were assessed. We screened 35 genes linked to thrombosis. We discovered a 756 kb duplication that spanned the F9 gene in region q27.1 of the X chromosome. The repeat includes the full F9 gene, thus, the patient had two functional copies of FIX with the FIX activity 192%. An identical repetition was found in the patient's mother. Both the patient and his mother had high, but variable, plasma FIX activities that promote coagulation. The patient's frequent, severe thrombolic events maybe attributed to the duplication of a big portion of the F9 gene and lupus anticoagulant positive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Near‐infrared (NIR) phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs) lighting sources are applied in non‐destructive examination and illumination supplements for night monitoring. As a critical component of NIR pc‐LED, NIR phosphors are required to possess a high external quantum efficiency (EQE), super thermal stability, and broadband emission to meet applications. Here, Na2SrGe6O14:Cr3+ (NSGO:Cr) glass ceramics (GC) bulk via highly crystallization from glass precursor is fabricated and demonstrates an ultrabroad emission band centered at 815 nm with a full width at half‐maximum (FWHM) of 214 nm and a high EQE of 49.2%. Moreover, Yb3+ co‐doping significantly enhances Cr3+ → Yb3+ energy transfer (ET) due to the stronger Yb3+: 2F7/2‐2F5/2 absorption. Benefiting from the ET process, the Cr/Yb co‐doped GC exhibits NIR‐I/II emission with improved thermal stability from 30.1% to 65.0%. Furthermore, an encapsulant‐free NIR GC‐converted LED (GCc‐LED) is prepared and exhibits 52.2 mW NIR output power with a high photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.4%. Under a large current of 600 mA, the NIR device exhibits a watt‐level output power of 922.4 mW with a PCE of 9.1%. Compared to conventional NIR powder phosphors, NSGO:Cr/Yb GC with high performance can open up an avenue for the fabrication of high power NIR lighting sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GSH is one of the most important reducing agents in biological systems. The depletion of GSH in the human body is linked to many diseases. Therefore, it is necessary to develop suitable and efficient probes for detecting GSH concentrations in real samples. In this work, we designed and synthesized two near-infrared emitting iridium(III) complex probes containing a novel ligand functionalized with an α,β-unsaturated ketone for the rapid and sensitive detection of GSH. The molecular structure of Ir2 was determined by X-ray crystallography. Due to their large Stokes shift, long luminescence lifetime and NIR emission, these probes were successfully applied in the imaging of GSH in living cells. In addition, two iridium(III) complexes have strong singlet oxygen generation ability which can be used for photodynamic therapy (PDT) upon visible light irradiation. On the basis of these findings, our iridium(III) complexes may serve as GSH probes for HeLa cell imaging and as photosensitizers for PDT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Resolving the controversy over the NO oxidation mechanism at the CeO 2 surface. • The atomic-scale understanding of NO oxidation by DFT/in-situ experiments. • Interaction between O vac and O 2 , forming a catalytic species O* for NO oxidation. • Optimizing O vac concentration for O 2 -dimer activation to improve the SCR activity. Redox properties of CeO 2 materials have a major impact on the NO oxidation to NO 2 , which is a crucial step for selective-catalytic-reduction (SCR) because NO 2 can trigger the "Fast SCR" reaction. Despite decades of investigations, the mechanism of NO oxidation to NO 2 at the CeO 2 surface is still under debate, the controversy is whether the key oxidants are the CeO 2 catalyst's high-valence metal ions or the O 2 molecules (in the reactant gas) which could be activated by the reducing CeO 2 surface oxygen vacancies (O vac)? We perform density-functional-theory (DFT) simulations and synthesize CeO 2 catalysts for in situ spectroscopy experiments, transient-reaction-analysis (TRA) experiments, and isotopic experiments, to reveal the NO oxidation mechanism and achieve atomic-level understanding. Our results show that O vac at the CeO 2 surface strongly interacts with O 2 gas, leading to the formation of a key oxidizing intermediate O* ("*" means an adsorbed state). TRA experiments, isotopic experiments, and in situ spectroscopy results further provide evidence that O* oxidizes NO to NO 2. Given the theoretical–experimental-joint results, we demonstrate that the effective approach, in terms of utilizing the intrinsic catalytic properties of CeO 2 , should be simultaneously optimizing the surface O vac concentration and the O vac 's activity for O 2 -dimer activation, which provides atomic-scale insights for a rational design of NO-conversion catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bacterial assembly was dominated by drift (stochastic processes). • Fungal assembly was more governed by heterogeneous selection (deterministic processes). • Understory removal rapidly altered fungal community structure. • Understory removal had minor effects on the community assembly of bacteria and fungi. There is little known about how understory vegetation affects the soil microbial community assembly, although it exerts strong controls on the soil microbial community composition. We attempted to clarify this question by establishing an experiment in which the understory vegetation was either removed or maintained as controls in a primary tropical forest in south China. The results showed that removing the understory markedly altered the structure of fungal rather than bacterial communities. The bacterial assembly in control sites was dominated by drift (stochasticity), whereas the fungal assembly was governed more by heterogeneous selection (determinism). Removal of the understory had minor effects on the community assembly of bacteria and fungi. These results indicate that the absence of understory vegetation in tropical forests can quickly alter the fungal community structure without influencing the community assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bacterial assembly was dominated by drift (stochastic processes). • Fungal assembly was more governed by heterogeneous selection (deterministic processes). • Understory removal rapidly altered fungal community structure. • Understory removal had minor effects on the community assembly of bacteria and fungi. There is little known about how understory vegetation affects the soil microbial community assembly, although it exerts strong controls on the soil microbial community composition. We attempted to clarify this question by establishing an experiment in which the understory vegetation was either removed or maintained as controls in a primary tropical forest in south China. The results showed that removing the understory markedly altered the structure of fungal rather than bacterial communities. The bacterial assembly in control sites was dominated by drift (stochasticity), whereas the fungal assembly was governed more by heterogeneous selection (determinism). Removal of the understory had minor effects on the community assembly of bacteria and fungi. These results indicate that the absence of understory vegetation in tropical forests can quickly alter the fungal community structure without influencing the community assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of pH, metal ions (i.e. Cu2+, Cd2+, Pb2+and Zn2+) and natural organic matter (i.e. Suwannee River natural organic matter standard [SRNOM]) on determination of thiol (i.e. reduced glutathione [GSH]) by cathodic stripping voltammetry were evaluated. pH was the most critical parameter to influence GSH voltammogram (i.e. peak shape, position and height). In presence of Cu and Cd, secondary peaks were found at [metal]/GSH > 1 due to formation of GSH complexes at pH = 8.0 (Cu and Cd) and 2.5 (Cu only). On the other hand, Pb showed negligible influence on GSH voltammogram at pH 8.0 and 2.5 within [Pb]/[GSH] = 0.01–2.0. Zn significantly reduced GSH peak height at pH 2.5 at [Zn]/[GSH] = 0.01–2.0. SRNOM peak significantly overlapped with GSH peak at pH 8.0 and [SRNOM] > 1 mg L−1but was clearly separated from the GSH peak at pH 2.5. However, at pH 2.5, the presence of metal ions and/or SRNOM significantly underestimated GSH concentration (recovery = 21–69%), likely due to metal complexation with GSH and/or SRNOM adsorption onto Hg electrode. The effects of metal ions were minimised by the addition of EDTA. The interference induced by SRNOM adsorption was reduced as the [SRNOM] was reduced to 1 mg L−1and the recovery was improved to 98%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) has become a valuable tool in understanding the fate of organic contaminants at field sites. However, its application to chlorinated benzenes (CBs), a group of toxic and persistent groundwater contaminants, has received less attention. This study employed CSIA to investigate the occurrence of natural degradation of various CBs and benzene in a contaminated aquifer. Despite the complexity of the study area (e.g., installation of a sheet pile barrier and the presence of a complex set of contaminants), the substantial enrichments in δ13C values (i.e., >2‰) for all CBs and benzene across the sampling wells indicate in situ degradation of these compounds. In particular, the 13C enrichments for 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene (1,2,4-TCB) and 1,2-dichlorobenzene (1,2-DCB) display good correlations with decreasing groundwater concentrations, consistent with the effects of in situ biodegradation. Using the Rayleigh model, the extent of degradation (EoD) is estimated to be 47-99% for 1,2-DCB, and 21-73% for 1,2,4-TCB. The enrichments observed for the other CBs (1,4-DCB and chlorobenzene (MCB)) and benzene at the site are also suggestive of in situ biodegradation. Due to simultaneous degradation and production of 1,4-DCB (a major 1,2,4-TCB degradation product), MCB (from DCB degradation), and benzene (from MCB degradation), the estimation of EoD for these intermediate compounds is more complex but a modelling simulation supports in situ biodegradation of these daughter products. In particular, the fact that the δ13C values of MCB and benzene (i.e., daughter products of 1,2,4-TCB) are more enriched than the original δ13C value of their parent 1,2,4-TCB provides definitive evidence for the occurrence of in situ biodegradation of the MCB and benzene. • Fills an important gap in understanding fate of chlorinated benzenes in the field • CSIA confirms in situ biodegradation of parent contaminants 1,2,4-TCB and 1,2-DCB • CSIA and modelling suggest degradation of MCB and benzene daughter products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two bipyridyl-iridium(III) complexes as catalysts for visible light driven hydrogen production in the buffer solution of ascorbic acid/sodium ascorbate (H 2 A/NaHA) were studied. Proton and H 2 O coordination to complex in aqueous solution and the release of H 2 from the hydride species occurred by a direct reaction with protons. These two complexes could demonstrate the emergence of hydrides by electrochemical methods in the case of water or protons. [Display omitted] • Two bipyridyl-iridium(III) complexes were used as catalysts for visible light driven hydrogen production. • These complexes could electrochemically prove the appearance of hydrides in the presence of water or weak acids. • The hydrides obtained by electrolysis could exist stably for a period of time, which had been proved by 1H NMR spectra. In this article, we mainly discussed that iridium(III) complexes [IrIII(L) 2 Cl 2 ]PF 6 (L = 4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine or 4,4′-di- tert -butyl-2,2′-bipyridine) could be used as homogeneous catalysts to catalyze aqueous solutions in the presence of photosensitizers and electronic victims. The appearance of hydrides was the key to hydrogen production. In order to conduct a more thorough study of these species, here the catalysts were electrolyzed in CH 3 CN to continuously obtain electrons. At the same time, the presence of weak acid (n Bu 4 NH 2 PO 4) introduced hydrogen ions, so that iridium hydride can be continuously produced. Then UV–vis absorption and NMR spectroscopies were used to characterize the hydride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Noninvasive right ventricular (RV) myocardial work (RVMW) determined by echocardiography is a novel indicator used to estimate RV systolic function. To date, the feasibility of using RVMW has not been verified in assessing RV function in patients with atrial septal defect (ASD). Methods: Noninvasive RVMW was analysed in 29 ASD patients (median age, 49 years; 21% male) and 29 age- and sex-matched individuals without cardiovascular disease. The ASD patients underwent echocardiography and right heart catheterization (RHC) within 24 h. Results: The RV global work index (RVGWI), RV global constructive work (RVGCW), and RV global wasted work (RVGWW) were significantly higher in the ASD patients than in the controls, while there was no significant difference in RV global work efficiency (RVGWE). RV global longitudinal strain (RV GLS), RVGWI, RVGCW, and RVGWW demonstrated significant correlations with RHC-derived stroke volume (SV) and SV index. The RVGWI (area under receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] = 0.895), RVGCW (AUC = 0.922), and RVGWW (AUC = 0.870) could be considered good predictors of ASD and were superior to RV GLS (AUC = 0.656). Conclusion: The RVGWI, RVGCW, and RVGWW could be used to assess RV systolic function and are correlated with RHC-derived SV and SV index in patients with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We systematically prepared IrMn-based tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) film stacks, (IrMn/CoFe/Ru/CoFe/CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB) with seed layers of Ta, Ta/Ru, NiFeCr and Ta/NiFe to investigate the impact of seed layer on exchange bias field and TMR ratio. • The magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) with seed layers of Ta/Ru and Ta/NiFe have high exchange bias fields, which results from the high-quality (1 1 1) texture of the IrMn layer in these film stacks. • The TMR ratio for the film stack with seed layer of Ta/Ru is much higher than that of the film stacks with other seed layers, which is probably due to the weak interdiffusion at the interfaces of CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB. • Ta/Ru seed layer can facilitate the improvement of TMR ratio, which is beneficial for exploring high-performance spintronic devices such as magnetic field sensor towards high sensitivity and high stability. The exchange bias field (H ex) and tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) ratio play an important role for the applications of magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) in spintronic devices. Here the structure, magnetic properties, and TMR ratio are systematically investigated for the IrMn-based MTJ (IrMn/CoFe/Ru/CoFe/CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB) with seed layers of Ta, Ta/Ru, NiFeCr and Ta/NiFe. The MTJs with seed layers of Ta/Ru and Ta/NiFe present high H ex values, and the MTJ with seed layer of Ta/Ru shows the highest TMR ratio. We found that the H ex is positively correlated with the (1 1 1) texture quality of the IrMn layer while the interdiffusion at the interfaces of CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB has significant impact on the TMR ratio. These results highlight the crucial role of seed layers on the H ex and TMR ratio, and suggest that the Ta/Ru seed layer is beneficial to developing MTJ-based spintronic devices such as magnetic field sensor towards high sensitivity and high stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Conditional Affinity Spectrum (CAS) is essential for describing the binding site heterogeneity of natural organic matter. A numerical method called 'Fully Optimized ContinUouS' (FOCUS) is described and employed to determine the CAS of H and Pb binding to Suwannee River Humic Acid (SRHA). The FOCUS-CAS is compared with the analytical solution of CAS based on the fitting of the experimental data to the Non-Ideal Competitive Adsorption (NICA) model. Although both methods give satisfactory results, their CAS distribution features are different, indicating that different CAS can reproduce the binding data at similar level of goodness-of-fit. Within a comparable, but not identical, affinity range, the FOCUS-CAS shows multimodal distributions, whereas the NICA-CAS displays bimodal distributions. These differences are due to the fact that the NICA-CAS assumes an a priori functionality (i.e., carboxylic and phenolic), while the FOCUS-CAS does not make this assumption. Without knowing the chemical reality of the binding site explicitly, both methods are viable. The NICA-CAS is theoretically superior to the FOCUS-CAS because it provides informative descriptions of competition between the H- and Pb-binding. Nonetheless, the FOCUS-CAS is practically more convenient because it does not require proton binding data. Additionally, the FOCUS-CAS can describe some strong metal-binding sites (e.g., thiol) that cannot be described by the NICA-CAS and, thus, constitutes a suitable alternative to NICA-CAS. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the scale of foundation pit projects of subway stations in Shenzhen becomes larger, and the construction constraints become more and more complex, there is an urgent need for intelligent monitoring and safety management of foundation pits. In this study, an integrated intelligent approach for monitoring and management of a deep foundation pit in a subway station was proposed and a case study based on the Waterlands Resort East Station Project of Shenzhen Metro Line 12 was used for validation. The present study first proposed the path of intelligent foundation pit engineering. Based on geotechnical survey and building information modeling, a three-dimensional transparent geological model of foundation pit was constructed. Multi-source sensing technologies were integrated, including micro electromechanical system sensing technology, Brillouin optical frequency domain analysis sensing technology, an unmanned aerial vehicle and machine vision for real-time high-precision wireless monitoring of the foundation pit. Moreover, machine learning models were developed for predicting key parameters of foundation pits. Finally, a digital twin integrated platform was developed for the management of the subway foundation pit in both construction and maintenance phases. This typical case study is expected to improve the construction, maintenance and management level of foundation pits in subway stations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A systematic three-dimensional focus engineering method based on the dipole-array radiation pattern is proposed. High numerical aperture focusing of generalized cylindrical vector beam is interpreted as the reversing of the radiation from electrically small dipole arrays. Required pupil plane illumination can be found for the desired focal field with specific characteristics. Magnetic-dipole array radiation is utilized to create ultra-long (~8λ) diffraction limited three-dimensional optical tube with maximal uniformity. Combined with a recently reported optical needle field generation with the help of electric dipole array radiation, ultra-long (~8λ) three-dimensional flattop focus that has top hat profiles in both transversal and longitudinal directions can be realized with the help of radiations pattern from co-located magnetic and electric dipole arrays. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An approach to obtain a diffraction-limited spherical focal spot with controllable three dimensional state of polarization in 4Pi microscopy is proposed. By combining the angular radiation pattern of a dipole antenna and vectorial diffraction method, input field at the pupil plane for creating a spherical focal spot with arbitrary three dimensionally oriented linear polarization is found analytically by solving the inverse problem. A diffraction-limited spherical spot with arbitrary three dimensional elliptical polarization can be realized by introducing a second dipole antenna oriented in the orthogonal plane with appropriate amplitude and phase differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monoclonal antibodies are typically glycosylated at asparagine residues in the Fc domain, and glycosylation heterogeneity at the Fc sites is well known. This paper presents a method for rapid analysis of glycosylation profile of the therapeutic monoclonal antibody trastuzumab from different production batches using electrospray quadrupole ion-mobility time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ESI-Q-IM-TOF). The global glycosylation profile for each production batch was obtained by a fast LC-MS analysis, and comparisons of the glycoprofiles of trastuzumab from different lots were made based on the deconvoluted intact mass spectra. Furthermore, the heterogeneity at each glycosylation site was characterized at the reduced antibody level and at the isolated glycopeptide level. The glycosylation site and glycan structures were confirmed by performing a time-aligned-parallel fragmentation approach using the unique dual-collision cell design of the instrument and the incorporated ion-mobility separation function. Four different production batches of trastuzumab were analyzed and compared in terms of global glycosylation profiles as well as the heterogeneity at each glycosylation site. The results show that each batch of trastuzumab shares the same types of glycoforms but relative abundance of each glycoforms is varied. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An improved method for peptide de novo sequencing by MALDI mass spectrometry is presented. The method couples a charge derivatization reaction with C-terminal digestion to modify tryptic peptides. The charge derivatization attaches a fixed charge group onto the N-termini of peptides, and the enzymatic digestion after the derivatization step removes C-terminal basic amino acid residues such as arginine and lysine The fragmentation of the modified peptide(s) under low-energy CID conditions (MALDI Q-TOF mass spectrometer) yields a simplified yet complete ion series of the peptide sequence. The validity of the method is demonstrated by the results from several model protein digests, where peptide sequences were correctly deduced either manually or through an automated sequencing program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A three-dimensional focus shaping technique using the combination of cylindrical polarization with binary diffractive optical element is proposed. The energy density pattern at the vicinity of the focus can be tailored in three dimensions by appropriately adjusting the parameters of the cylindrical vector beam illumination, numerical aperture of the objective lens and the design of the binary diffractive optical element. Focus with extended depth of focus that has both transversal and longitudinal flattop profile is obtained. Optical bubble that has a total dark volume surrounded by high field distributions is also shown. Potential applications of this focus shaping technique are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the possible heterogeneity of mechanisms that contribute to the discriminative stimulus and rate-decreasing effects of γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). Dose effect curves were determined for GHB and two GABAB receptor agonists (baclofen and SKF97541) alone and together with the selective GABAB receptor antagonist CGP35348 in rats discriminating GHB. In a second study, GHB and SKF97541 dose effect curves were determined alone and together with baclofen. CGP35348 attenuated the discriminative stimulus and rate-decreasing effects of SKF97541 and baclofen to a greater extent than those of GHB. In the second study, baclofen enhanced the discriminative stimulus and rate-decreasing effects of GHB and SKF97541; however, the GHB dose effect curve was not shifted in a parallel manner. Taken together, these data suggest that multiple mechanisms, possibly including GHB receptors and GABAB receptor subtypes, are involved in the discriminative stimulus and rate-decreasing effects of GHB. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a metabolite of GABA, is a drug of abuse and a therapeutic. The illicit use of GHB precursors and analogs reportedly has increased worldwide. Gamma-hydroxyvaleric (GHV) is a 4-methyl-substituted analog of GHB that reportedly is abused and is marketed as a dietary supplement and replacement for GHB. The purpose of these studies was to compare the pharmacological and behavioral profiles of GHV and GHB. In radioligand binding studies, GHV completely displaced [3H]NCS-382 with approximately 2-fold lower affinity than GHB and did not markedly displace [3H]GABA from GABAB receptors at a 20-fold larger concentration. In drug discrimination procedures, GHV did not share discriminative stimulus effects with GHB or baclofen. GHV shared other behavioral effects with GHB, such as sedation, catalepsy, and ataxia, although larger doses of GHV were required to produce these effects. Lethality (50%) was observed after the largest dose of GHV (5600mg/kg), a dose that produced less-than-maximal catalepsy and ataxia. To the extent that large doses of GHV might be taken to in an attempt to produce GHB-like effects (e.g., hypnosis) GHV toxicity may pose a greater public health concern than GHB. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Optical thin films used at oblique incidence exhibit inevitable polarization dependent properties. In reflective projection display systems, Philips prisms with color splitting filters are widely used. Generally, illuminating light at different polarization components passes the color splitting filters twice in such Philips prism. Color splitting filters operate as color separation for s-polarization and as color recombination for p-polarization, and thus performances of the color splitting filters for s- and p-polarization are equally important. In order to reduce stray light, it is necessary to design non-polarizing thin film edge filters for color separation and recombination system in projectors. The novel design method is based on a broad-band Fabry–Perot interference filter in which both sides of transmittance band can be used as initial designs for long-wave-pass filter or short-wave-pass filters, and through suitable refinement to reduce the transmittance ripples, it is possible to achieve zero separation between two polarization components. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A pair of isotopically coded light and heavy reagents, tris-(2 ,4,6-trimethoxyphenyl)phosphonium acetic acid N-hydroxysuccinimide esters (1 and 2) were synthesized and used to derivatize low molecular weight (< 500 Da) molecules containing primary or secondary amine functional groups for MALDI-TOF MS analysis. The light and heavy reagents added a 573 and 600 Da positively charged tag to each analyte, respectively. In the presence of 10 times excess of tag reagents, the coupling reactions reached near completion within 10 mm. The derivatization greatly facilitated MALDI analysis of small molecules and significantly improved the sensitivity of analysis, allowing a limit of detection in the low femtomole range. Additionally, the reaction mixtures were directly analyzed by MALDI without sample cleanup. The quantification of small molecules by MALDI-TOF MS was successfully achieved by analysis of isotopically coded light and heavy derivatives. MALDI-TOF quantitative analysis of a mixture of antibiotics yielded calibration curves in the concentration range from 0.3 to 30 pmol/μL with r² values greater than 0.9995. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ZIF-9(III)/Co LDH layered composite was successfully synthesized by a one-step controllable phase transition from ZIF-9(I). ZIF-9(III)/Co LDH nanosheets shows great OER electrocatalytic activity and exhibits a low overpotential of 297 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2 in 1.0 M KOH due to the high surface area, abundant metal sites and synergistic effect. [Display omitted] • A novel ZIF-9(III)/Co LDH was prepared by controllable phase transition of ZIF-9(I). • The fascinating structures and compositions of ZIF-9(III)/Co LDH are reported. • The optimized ZIF-9(III)/Co LDH exhibits efficient electrocatalytic performance. The quest for desirable two-dimensional (2D) materials and facile strategies to construct 2D layered composites with fascinating structures and compositions for high-performance electrocatalysis is still a major challenge. In the present research, novel nanocomposites of 2D zeolitic imidazolate framework-9 (ZIF-9) combined with Co-layered double hydroxide (Co LDH) were successfully synthetized through a controllable phase transition from ZIF-9(I). The 3D to 2D structural transformation of ZIF-9 was induced by deionized water, and the formation of 2D Co LDH was simultaneously realized during the one-step fabrication of ZIF-9(III)/Co LDH nanocomposites. Due to the high surface area, the presence of abundant metal sites, and the interactions between 2D ZIF-9(III) and 2D Co LDH, the as-optimized ZIF-9(III)/Co LDH nanocomposite exhibits great electrochemical activities for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) (η = 297 mV at 10 mA cm−2) in 1.0 M KOH solution. The electrochemical performance of the ZIF-9(III)/Co LDH nanocomposite was superior to those of the pure Co LDH, ZIF-9(III), and commercial RuO 2. The present work demonstrates that the proposed strategy can effectively boost catalytic activities and also design new routes to synthesize advanced MOF nanohybrids for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the critical contributions of MOF-based catalytic materials in CO 2 RR and HER, mainly discussing the strategies for the synthesis and modification of MOF-based catalysts, advanced characterization techniques, and the current advances, challenges and future prospects of MOF-based catalysts in CO 2 RR and HER. [Display omitted] • A prototype of future carbon–neutral energy conversion system is pointed out. • Strategies of synthesis, modification and characterization for MOF are highlighted. • Recent advances of MOF-based catalysts in CO 2 RR and HER are compiled in detail. • Challenges and prospect of MOF-based catalysts for CO 2 RR and HER are discussed. To address environmental problems and growing energy demands, reducing CO 2 emissions and developing sustainable clean energy are becoming increasingly crucial. In this context, carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO 2 RR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are gaining significant attention as promising technologies for energy conversion utilizing renewable energy sources. However, developing advanced and highly efficient catalysts is essential to make these applications feasible. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a new class of porous crystalline materials, have shown great potential in designing such catalysts for CO 2 RR and HER. Their ordered and tailorable structures, ultrahigh surface areas, and well-defined active sites make them ideal for this purpose. This review discusses the current advances, remaining challenges and future opportunities of MOF-based catalysts in CO 2 RR and HER. First, the strategies for synthesizing and modifying MOF-based catalysts are overviewed, including pristine MOFs, MOF composites and MOF derivatives. Then, the advanced characterization techniques are showcased to provide reaction mechanism insights. Moreover, the recent advances of MOF-based catalysts in both CO 2 RR and HER are compiled in detail, highlighting the structure–activity relationship of MOF materials. Finally, the challenges and outlooks of MOF-based catalysts for CO 2 RR and HER are described. This review provides a systemic and in-depth insight into MOF-based catalyst for CO 2 RR and HER, hoping that this timely and comprehensive review can shed light on the upcoming research horizons of these prosperous areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr3+‐doped phosphors are highly recognized in various fields for their remarkable luminous efficiency and spectral flexibility, including modern agriculture and horticulture. However, the shortage of suitable Cr3+‐doped phosphors for far‐red LED devices has inhibited their popularization in plant lighting. Herein, an innovative Cr3+‐doped phosphor Ca2YAl3Ge2O12:Cr3+ (CYAG:Cr3+), achieving a broad far‐red emission at 770 nm upon 450 nm blue light excitation is designed. The optimal CYAG:Cr3+ phosphor exhibits a high internal quantum yield of 78.2% and low thermal‐quenching behavior of 85%@373 K. Thus, the fabricated phosphor‐converted LEDs (pc‐LEDs) for plant far‐red lighting have a high output power of 33.3 mW and photovoltaic conversion efficiency of 11.5% at 100 mA. The potential of CYAG:Cr3+ in plant lighting is assessed by supplementing the far‐red lighting of Italian lettuce with fabricated pc‐LEDs, and the biomass of Italian lettuce is significantly increased by 33%. The successful development of CYAG:Cr3+ phosphors provides a high‐quality option for plant far‐red light devices and further stimulates the development of new Cr3+‐doped plant‐lighting phosphors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garnet-type Y 3 Sc 2 Ga 3 O 12 :Cr3+ phosphor has been synthesized by a solid-state reaction. XRD result revealed the successful phase formation and Cr3+ doping in Y 3 Sc 2 Ga 3 O 12. The excitation spectrum at about 260, 450, and 630 nm corresponded to three spin-allowed Cr3+ d - d intra-transitions of 4A 2 -4T 1 (4P), 4A 2 -4T 1 (4F), and 4A 2 -4T 2 (4F), respectively, among which the near infrared (NIR) emission peak at around 740 nm is identified. Moreover, the phosphorescence emission property, thermoluminescence and related luminescence mechanisms are discussed as well. The fabricated NIR phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes (pc-LEDs) suggest its potential of Y 3 Sc 2 Ga 3 O 12 :Cr3+ phosphor for non-visible light source application. • Garnet-type Y 3 Sc 2 Ga 3 O 12 :Cr3+ phosphor has been synthesized by solid-state reaction in air. • The Y 3 Sc 2 Ga 3 O 12 :Cr3+ phosphor exhibit both intense near infrared (NIR) and long persistent luminescence phenomenon. • The trap type and depth were also discussed according to thermoluminescence glow curves. • The possible fluorescence and long persistent luminescence mechanism in Y 3 Sc 2 Ga 3 O 12 :Cr3+ phosphors are analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fully electrical manipulation of magnetism, preferably through spin current, is highly desired to achieve energy-efficient, nonvolatile, and programmable spin logic devices. It is demonstrated in this study that in a single Pt/IrMn/ Co/Ru/CoPt heterojunction, all 16 Boolean logic functions can be realized in a purely electrical way, relying on electrical manipulation of magnetic-field-free spin-orbit torque (SOT) switching. By applying current pulses along with two orthogonal directions, the exchange bias between IrMn and Co, and the SOT switching polarity (clockwise or counterclockwise) of perpendicularly magnetized CoPt, can be reversibly controlled, enabling complete spin logic within a single nonvolatile memory. This study makes a significant step towards practical electrical programmable spin logic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]