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Source apportionment results of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 2.5 µm (PM2.5) from two multivariate receptor models (positive matrix factorization, PMF; solver for mixture problem, SMP) were compared to assess the comparability of the results in view of model performance, source identification and source quantification. Two receptor models applied the same filter samples of PM2.5 collected between October 2012 and September 2013 in Seoul, Korea, not only reproduced well the measured PM2.5 mass concentrations, especially the SMP model (R2 = 0.99, bias = − 0.02 μg m−3), but also identified the four major PM2.5 contributors: biomass burning (PMF: 12.0%, SMP: 13.2%), vehicles (PMF: 18.9%, SMP: 10.2%), road dust (PMF: 5.0%, SMP: 11.2%) and secondary aerosol sources (PMF: 51%, SMP: 42.5%). The large sulfate fraction in the source profile is thought to be the high vehicle fraction in PMF. The major species constituting the secondary aerosols are OC (PMF: 11.7%, SMP: 16.2%), sulfate (PMF: 21.2%, SMP: 15.3%), nitrate (PMF: 29.4%, SMP: 44.1%), and ammonium (PMF: 16.7%, SMP: 16.9%). The difference in the contribution of nitrate and sulfate between the two models underscores that multiple receptor models may need to be applied to the same dataset to better understand their sources in polluted areas, particularly reducing secondary aerosols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron spin plays a critical role in chemical processes, particularly in reactions involving metal complexes with unpaired electrons. However, more definitive state-to-state experiments are needed to better elucidate the role of electronic spin. Herein, we chose nickel (II) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl) porphyrin 1 as a catalyst, which allows switching from a low spin to a high spin state of Ni (II) center through an axial pyridine coordination, for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). When pyridine is present, we observed β-hydrogenation of porphyrin through electron transfer followed by proton transfer. In contrast, hydrogen evolution mainly occurs via the concerted proton-coupling electron transfer without pyridine coordination. Similar distinct spin-dependent selectivity was also observed in chemical reduction of 1 by CoCp 2 with subsequent addition of pyridinium p-toluenesulfonate. Computational calculations using density functional theory demonstrated that the transition from low spin to high spin state enriches the ligand's electron density after one-electron reduction, leading to preferential protonation of β-periphery rather than meso-position or metal center., (© 2024 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Monolithic integration of color-conversion materials onto blue-backlight micro-light-emitting-diodes (micro-LEDs) has emerged as a promising strategy for achieving full-color microdisplay devices. However, this approach still encounters challenges such as the blue-backlight leakage and the poor fabrication yield rate due to unsatisfied quantum dot (QD) material and fabrication process. Here, the monolithic integration of 0.39-inch micro-display screens displaying colorful pictures and videos are demonstrated, which are enabled by creating interfacial chemical bonds for wafer-scale adhesion of sub-5 µm QD-pixels on blue-backlight micro-LED wafer. The ligand molecule with chlorosulfonyl and silane groups is selected as the synthesis ligand and surface treatment material, facilitating the preparation of high-efficiency QD photoresist and the formation of robust chemical bonds for pixel integration. This is a leading record in micro-display devices achieving the highest brightness larger than 400 thousand nits, the ultrahigh resolution of 3300 PPI, the wide color gamut of 130.4% NTSC, and the ultimate performance of service life exceeding 1000 h. These results extend the mature integrated circuit technique into the manufacture of micro-display device, which also lead the road of industrialization process of full-color micro-LEDs., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) are promising luminescent materials for electronic color displays due to their high luminescence efficiency, widely-tunable emission wavelengths, and narrow emission linewidth. Their application in emerging display technologies necessitates precise micron-scale patterning while maintaining good optical performance. Although photolithography is a well-established micro-patterning technique in the industry, conventional processes are incompatible with PNCs as the use of polar solvents can damage the ionic PNCs, causing severe luminescence quenching. Here, we report the rational design and synthesis of a new bidentate photo-crosslinkable ligand for the direct photo-patterning of PNCs. Each ligand contains two photosensitive acrylate groups and two carboxylate groups, and is introduced to the PNCs via an entropy-driven ligand exchange process. In a close-packed thin film, the acrylate ligands photo-polymerize and crosslink under ultraviolet light, rendering the PNCs insoluble in developing solvents. A high-density crosslinked PNC film with an optical density of 1.1 is attained at 1.4 µm thickness, surpassing industry requirements on the absorption coefficient. Micron-scale patterning is further demonstrated using direct laser writing, producing well-defined 20 µm features. This study thus offers an effective and versatile approach for micro-patterning PNCs, and may also be broadly applicable to other nanomaterial systems., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs), as a class of 0D semiconductor materials, have generated widespread interest due to their adjustable band gap, exceptional color purity, near-unity quantum yield, and solution-processability. With decades of dedicated research, the potential applications of quantum dots have garnered significant recognition in both the academic and industrial communities. Furthermore, the related quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) stand out as one of the most promising contenders for the next-generation display technologies. Although QD-based color conversion films are applied to improve the color gamut of existing display technologies, the broader application of QLED devices remains in its nascent stages, facing many challenges on the path to commercialization. This review encapsulates the historical discovery and subsequent research advancements in QD materials and their synthesis methods. Additionally, the working mechanisms and architectural design of QLED prototype devices are discussed. Furthermore, the review surveys the latest advancements of QLED devices within the display industry. The narrative concludes with an examination of the challenges and perspectives of QLED technology in the foreseeable future., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are widely regarded as advanced emissive materials with significant potential for display applications owing to their excellent optical properties such as high color purity, near-unity photoluminescence quantum yield, and size-tunable emission color. Building upon these attractive attributes, QDs have successfully garnered attention in the display market as down-conversion luminophores and now venturing into the realm of self-emissive displays, exemplified by QD light-emitting diodes (QD-LEDs). However, despite these advancements, there remains a relatively limited body of research on QD patterning technologies, which are crucial prerequisites for the successful commercialization of QD-LEDs. Thus, in this review, an overview of the current status and prospects of QD patterning technologies to accelerate the commercialization of QD-LEDs is provided. Within this review, a comprehensive investigation of three prevailing patterning methods: optical lithography, transfer printing, and inkjet printing are conducted. Furthermore, several exploratory QD patterning techniques that offer distinct advantages are introduced. This study not only paves the way for successful commercialization but also extends the potential application of QD-LEDs into uncharted frontiers., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Knowledge of the variations of mass concentration, chemical composition and size distributions of submicron aerosols near roadways is of importance for reducing exposure assessment uncertainties in health effects studies. The goal of this study is to deploy and evaluate an Atmospheric Sciences Research Center-Mobile Laboratory (ASRC-ML), equipped with a suite of rapid response instruments for characterization of traffic plumes, adjacent to the Long Island Expressway (LIE) -- a high-traffic highway in the New York City Metropolitan Area. In total, four measurement periods, two in the morning and two in the evening were conducted at a location approximately 30m south of the LIE. The mass concentrations and size distributions of non-refractory submicron aerosol (NR-PM1) species were measured in situ at a time resolution of 1 min by an Aerodyne High-Resolution Time-of-Flight Aerosol Mass Spectrometer, along with rapid measurements (down to 1 Hz) of gaseous pollutants (e.g. HCHO, NO2, NO, O3, and CO2, etc.), black carbon (BC), and particle number concentrations and size distributions. Particulate organics varied dramatically during periods with high traffic influences from the nearby roadway. The variations were mainly observed in the hydrocarbon-like organic aerosol (HOA), a surrogate for primary OA from vehicle emissions. The inorganic species (sulfate, ammonium, and nitrate) and oxygenated OA (OOA) showed much smoother variations indicating minor impacts from traffic emissions. The concentration and chemical composition of NR-PM1 also varied differently on different days depending on meteorology, traffic intensity and vehicle types. Overall, organics dominated the traffic-related NRPM1 composition (>60 %) with HOA accounting for a major fraction of OA. The traffic-influenced organics showed two distinct modes in mass-weighted size distributions, peaking at ~120 nm and 500 nm (vacuum aerodynamic diameter, Dva), respectively. OOA and inorganic species appear to be internally mixed in the accumulation mode peaking at ~500-600 nm. The enhancement of organics in traffic emissions mainly occurred at ultrafine mode dominated by HOA, with little relation to the OOA-dominated accumulation mode. From Fast Mobility Particle Sizer (FMPS) measurements, a large increase in number concentration at ~10 nm (mobility number mean diameter, Dm) was also found due to traffic influence; though these particles typically contribute a minor fraction of total particle mass. The observed rapid variations of aerosol chemistry and microphysics may have significant implications for near-highway air pollution characterization and exposure assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated an aerosol processing and evolution event from 21-22 July during the summer 2009 Field Intensive Study at Queens College in New York City (NYC). The evolution processes are characterized by three consecutive stages: (1) aerosol wet scavenging, (2) night-time nitrate formation, and (3) photochemical production and evolution of secondary aerosol species. Our results suggest that wet scavenging of aerosol species tends to be strongly related to their hygroscopicities and also mixing states. The scavenging leads to a significant change in bulk aerosol composition and average carbon oxidation state because of scavenging efficiencies in the following order: sulfate > low-volatility oxygenated organic aerosol (LV-OOA) > semi-volatile OOA (SV-OOA) > hydrocarbon-like OA (HOA). The second stage involves a quick formation of nitrate from heterogeneous reactions at nighttime. During the third stage, simultaneous increases of sulfate and SV-OOA were observed shortly after sunrise, indicating secondary aerosol formation. Organic aerosols become highly oxidized in ~ half day as the result of photochemical processing, consistent with previously reported results from the CO-tracer method (OA/1CO). The photochemical reactions appear to progress gradually associated with a transformation of SVOOA to low-volatility species based on the evolution trends of oxygen-to-carbon (O/C) ratio, relationship between f44 (fraction of m/z 44 in OA) and f43 (fraction of m/z 43 in OA), and size evolution of OOA and HOA. Aerosols appear to become more internally mixed during the processing. Our results suggest that functionalization by incorporation of both C and O plays a major role in the early period of OA oxidation (O/C<0.5). Our results also show that photochemical production of LV-OOA during this event is approximately 2-3 h behind of sulfate production, which might explain, sometimes, the lack of correlations between LV-OOA and sulfate, two secondary aerosol species which often exist in internal mixtures over regional scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the variations of mass concentration, chemical composition and size distributions of submicron aerosols near roadways is of importance for reducing exposure assessment uncertainties in health effects studies. The goal of this study is to deploy and evaluate an Atmospheric Sciences Research Center-Mobile Laboratory (ASRC-ML), equipped with a suite of rapid response instruments for characterization of traffic plumes, adjacent to the Long Island Expressway (LIE) -- a high-traffic highway in the New York City Metropolitan Area. In total, four measurement periods, two in the morning and two in the evening were conducted at a location approximately 30m south of the LIE. The mass concentrations and size distributions of non-refractory submicron aerosol (NR-PM1) species were measured in situ at a time resolution of 1 min by an Aerodyne High-Resolution Time-of-Flight Aerosol Mass Spectrometer, along with rapid measurements (down to 1Hz) of gaseous pollutants (e.g., HCHO, NO2, NO, O3, and CO2, etc.), black carbon (BC), and particle number concentrations and size distributions. The particulate organics varied dramatically during periods with highest traffic influences from the nearby roadway. The variations were mainly observed in the hydrocarbon-like organic aerosol (HOA), a surrogate for primary OA from vehicle emissions. The inorganic species (sulfate, ammonium, and nitrate) and oxygenated OA (OOA) showed much smoother variations -- with minor impacts from traffic emissions. The concentration and chemical composition of NR-PM1 also varied differently on different days depending on meteorology, traffic intensity and vehicle types. Overall, organics dominated the traffic-related NR-PM1 composition (> 60%) with HOA being the major fraction of OA. The traffic-influenced organics showed two distinct modes in mass-weighted size distributions, peaking at ~ 120 nm and 500 nm (vacuum aerodynamic diameter, Dva ), respectively. OOA and inorganic species appear to be internally mixed in the accumulation mode peaking at ~ 500--600 nm. The enhancement of organics in traffic emissions mainly occurred at ultrafine mode dominated by HOA, with little relation to the OOA-dominated accumulation mode. From Fast Mobility Particle Sizer (FMPS)measurements, a large increase in number concentration at ~10 nm (mobility number mean diameter, Dm) was also found due to traffic influence; though these particles typically contribute a minor fraction of total particle mass. Results here may have significant implications for near-highway air pollution characterization and exposure assessments. Our results suggest that exposure assessments must take into account the rapid variations of aerosol chemistry over short distances near roadways, and also that long-term monitoring of air pollutants throughout the day on different types of days is necessary to accurately gauge exposure to individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paired nano- and long-tube Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS) systems were operated for four different intensive field campaigns in New York State. Two of these campaigns were at Queens College in New York City, during the summer of 2001 and the winter of 2004. The other field campaigns were at rural sites in New York State. The data with the computed diffusion loss corrections for the sampling lines and the SMPS instruments were examined and the combined SMPS data sets for each campaign were obtained. The diffusion corrections significantly affect total number concentrations, and in New York City, affect the mode structure of the size distributions. The relationship between merged and integrated SMPS total number concentrations with the diffusion loss corrections and the CPC number concentrations yield statistically significant increases (closer to 1) in the slope and correlation coefficient compared to the uncorrected values. The measurements are compared to PM2.5 mass concentrations and ion balance indications of aerosol acidity. Analysis of particle growth rate in comparison to other observations can classify the events and illustrate that urban and rural new particle formation and growth are the result of different causes. Periods of low observed PM2.5 mass, high number concentration, and low median diameter due to small fresh particles are associated with primary emissions for the urban sites; and with particle nucleation and growth for the rural sites. The observations of high PM2.5 mass, lower number concentrations, and higher median diameter are mainly due to an enhancement of photochemical reactions leading to condensation processes in relatively aged air. There are statistically different values for the condensation sink (CS) between urban and rural areas. While there is good association (r2 >0.5) between the condensation sink (CS) in the range of 8.35-283.9 nm and PM2.5 mass in the urban areas, there is no discernable association in the rural areas. The average values computed for the CS lie in the range 8.7×10-3-3.5×10-2 s-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) exhibit tremendous potential in display technologies owing to their unique optical properties, such as size-tunable emission wavelength, narrow spectral linewidth, and near-unity photoluminescence quantum yield. Significant efforts in academia and industry have achieved dramatic improvements in the performance of quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) over the past decade, primarily owing to the development of high-quality QDs and optimized device architectures. Moreover, sophisticated patterning processes have also been developed for QDs, which is an essential technique for their commercialization. As a result of these achievements, some QD-based display technologies, such as QD enhancement films and QD-organic light-emitting diodes, have been successfully commercialized, confirming the superiority of QDs in display technologies. However, despite these developments, the commercialization of QLEDs is yet to reach a threshold, requiring a leap forward in addressing challenges and related problems. Thus, representative research trends, progress, and challenges of QLEDs in the categories of material synthesis, device engineering, and fabrication method to specify the current status and development direction are reviewed. Furthermore, brief insights into the factors to be considered when conducting research on single-device QLEDs are provided to realize active matrix displays. This review guides the way toward the commercialization of QLEDs., (© 2023 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

The superior optical properties of colloidal quantum dots (QDs) have garnered significant broad interest from academia and industry owing to their successful application in self-emitting QD-based light-emitting diodes (QLEDs). In particular, active research is being conducted on QLEDs with top-emission device architectures (TQLEDs) owing to their advantages such as easy integration with conventional backplanes, high color purity, and excellent light extraction. However, due to the complicated optical phenomena and their highly sensitive optoelectrical properties to experimental variations, TQLEDs cannot be optimized easily for practical use. This review summarizes previous studies that have investigated top-emitting device structures and discusses ways to advance the performance of TQLEDs. First, theories relevant to the optoelectrical properties of TQLEDs are introduced. Second, advancements in device optimization are presented, where the underlying theories for each are considered. Finally, multilateral strategies for TQLEDs to enable their wider application to advanced industries are discussed. This work believes that this review can provide valuable insights for realizing commercial TQLEDs applicable to a broad range of applications., (© 2023 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

A unique organic-inorganic hybrid network composed of inorganic nanocores (ranging from semiconductors to metallic ones) interconnected through organic molecules can be produced by crosslinking the organic ligands of colloidal inorganic nanocrystals in assemblies. This work reports that this network, which is conventionally considered an inorganic film, can swell when exposed to a solvent because of the interaction between the solvent and the organic linkage within the network. Intriguingly, this work discovers that drying the solvent of the swollen organic-inorganic hybrid network can significantly affect the morphology owing to the swelling-induced compress stress, which is widely observed in various organic network systems. This work studies the surface instability of crosslinked organic-inorganic hybrid networks swollen by various organic solvents, which led to buckling delamination. Specifically, this work investigates the effects of the i) solvent-network interaction, ii) crosslinking density of the network, and iii) thickness of the film on the delamination behavior of the crosslinked network., (© 2023 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Gout, characterized by elevated uric acid levels, is a common inflammatory joint disease associated with pain, joint swelling, and bone erosion. Existing treatments for gout often result in undesirable side effects, highlighting the need for new, safe, and cost-effective anti-gout drugs. Natural products, including medicinal plants and phytochemicals, have gained attention as potential sources of anti-gout compounds. In this review, we examined articles from 2000 to 2020 using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on the effectiveness of medicinal plants and phyto-chemicals in managing gout. Our findings identified 14 plants and nine phytochemicals with anti-gout properties. Notably, Teucrium polium, Prunus avium, Smilax riparia, Rhus coriaria, Foenic-ulum vulgare, Allium cepa, Camellia japonica , and Helianthus annuus exhibited the highest xa-thine oxidase inhibitory activity, attributed to their unique natural bioactive compounds such as phenolics, tannins, coumarins, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Herbal plants and their phytochemicals have demonstrated promising effects in reducing serum urate and inhibiting xanthine. This review aims to report recent studies on plants/phytochemicals derived from herbs beneficial in gout and their different mechanisms., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

This study improves the estimation of the self-purification coefficient for runoff analysis of pollution load using geomorphological factors. Formerly, the assimilative capacity, K, was estimated using a single geomorphological factor, Horton's form ratio, Sf. Here, K was divided into two factors, namely, a watershed self-purification coefficient (k) and a watershed form ratio (Sf). The watershed form ratio, Sf1, is the equivalent stream density and is considered an index of accessibility of the pollution load to the water body. Even though Sf had shown a clear reciprocal relationship with k, in agricultural areas, there is a limitation that the k, estimated by using an Sf only can't reflect the variability of land coverage characteristics and/or land use. In this study, a new geo-characteristic index (GCI), SR, which is composed of Sf and weighted flow accumulation ratio (Fr), is suggested. GIS and remote sensing technique were used to calculate Sf and Fr. Interestingly, a clear reciprocal relationship exists between k and SR, and this relationship seems to be stronger for agricultural areas, as urbanized areas have easier wash off due to the sewer network or paved surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrokinetic energy harvesting from evaporation-driven flows in porous materials has recently been the subject of numerous studies, particularly with the development of nanomaterials with high conversion efficiencies. The configuration in which the energy conversion element is located upstream of the element which passively drives the evaporative flow has rarely been studied. However, this configuration offers the possibility of increasing the harvested energy simply by increasing the evaporation surface area and/or the hydraulic resistance of the energy conversion element. In this work, we investigate this configuration with poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) chips playing the role of artificial leaves driving a pervaporation-induced flow through a polystyrene colloid plug in a submillimetre tube for the energy conversion. With an appropriate design of the venation of the PDMS leaves, we report the first experimental evidence of electrokinetic energy conversion from pervaporation-induced flows, which increases with the pervaporation area. We also provide new insights by demonstrating that this increase is limited by cavitation within the PDMS leaves, which occurs systematically as soon as the water pressure inside the leaf reaches Pleaf ≃ 0 bar. Whatever the cavitation threshold, this phenomenon imposes an intrinsic limit on this configuration, underlining the need for innovative strategies to improve the harvesting of electrokinetic energy by evaporation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycerol kinase (GK) participates in triglyceride (TG) synthesis by catalyzing glycerol metabolism. Whether GK contributes to nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is unclear. The expression of hepatic Gk is found to be increased in diet‐induced and genetic mouse models of NAFL and is positively associated with hepatic SREBP‐1c expression and TG levels. Cholesterol and fatty acids stimulate GK expression in hepatocytes. In HFD‐induced NAFL mice, knockdown of hepatic Gk decreases expression of SREBP‐1c and its target lipogenic genes as well as DGAT1/2, increases serum glycerol levels, decreases serum TG levels, and attenuates hepatic TG accumulation. Overexpression of GK in hepatocytes in mice or in culture produces opposite results. Mechanistic studies reveal that GK stimulates SREBP‐1c transcription directly by binding to its gene promoter and indirectly by binding to SREBP‐1c protein, thereby increasing lipogenic gene expression and de novo lipogenesis. Studies with truncated GK and mutant GKs indicate that GK induces SREBP‐1c transcription independently of its enzyme activity. GK contributes to lipid homeostasis under physiological conditions by catalyzing glycerol metabolism rather than by regulating SREBP‐1c transcription. Collectively, these results demonstrate that increased hepatic GK promotes de novo lipogenesis and TG synthesis in NAFL by stimulating SREBP‐1c transcription and DGAT1/2 expression and catalyzing glycerol metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum dots (QDs) have garnered significant attention in the advanced optoelectronic devices due to their unique luminescent properties, including size-tunable emission, high photoluminescence efficiency, exceptional chromatic purity, and superior photostability. To achieve based high-definition full-color displays, it is critical to develop a precise patterning process capable of accurately depositing red, green, and blue QD subpixels at desired locations with high resolution. Among various patterning techniques, transfer printing has emerged as a promising method for achieving high-definition pixels while preventing cross-contamination between different colored subpixels. This technique involves transferring QD patterns to a target substrate using an elastomeric stamp. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research trends in three types of transfer printing processes: additive-transfer printing, subtractive-transfer printing, and intaglio-transfer printing. We examine the strengths and limitations of each technique and showcase key applications in QD light-emitting diodes that utilize transfer-printed QDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various display devices utilize colloidal quantum dots (QDs) for photoluminescent (PL) and electroluminescent (EL) applications owing to their exceptional optical properties, including sharp emission bandwidths, tunable emissions spectra, and photoluminescence quantum yields approaching unity. Since the commercialization of PL-based devices, researchers have shifted focus to the commercialization of EL-based devices and patterning processes. Over the past decade, the performance of EL devices has been dramatically enhanced through the meticulous optimization of the device architecture. In addition, solution-based QD patterning techniques have advanced, offering methods that minimize damage to the coated QDs while preserving their intrinsic properties effectively. Recent innovations include the development of ink formulations that improve the stability of QDs under ambient conditions and the use of photolithographic and soft lithographic techniques to achieve high-resolution patterning. This article reviews the recent advancements in various EL-based devices and solution-based methods for QD patterning, highlighting their potential to enable more complex, multi-color displays, and their implications for next-generation consumer electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deformable light-emitting devices, capable of maintaining consistent light emission even under mechanical deformations, represent a cornerstone for next-generation human-centric electronics. Quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs), leveraging the electroluminescence (EL) of colloidal quantum dots (QDs), show exceptional promise in this domain. Their superior advantages, such as excellent color purity, high luminous efficiency, slim form factor, and facile fabrication on various soft substrates, position them as prime candidates for deformable EL devices. This review explores recent advancements in deformable QLEDs, with a particular focus on material engineering and fabrication strategies. We begin by introducing various types of QDs and the operational principles of QLEDs, along with summarizing performance enhancements in reported deformable devices. Next, we categorize device structures based on the direction of light emission. We then discuss representative methods for patterning QD thin films on flexible substrates to fabricate full-color QLEDs. Additionally, we highlight fabrication strategies for deformable QLEDs with unconventional form factors, including flexible, foldable, fiber-type, and stretchable devices, and their potential applications. We conclude this review with a brief outlook on the future of this technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since most people, especially in developed countries, spend most of their time indoors, they are heavily exposed to indoor aerosols, which can potentially lead to adverse health effects. A major source of indoor aerosols are cooking activities, which release large quantities of particulate emissions (in terms of both number and mass), often with complex compositions. To investigate the characteristics of cooking emissions and what influences these emissions, we conducted a comprehensive study by cooking 19 dishes with different ingredients and cooking methods. The emissions were monitored in real time with several online instruments that measured both physical and chemical particle properties as well as trace gas concentrations. The same instrumentation was used to study the influence of cooking emissions on the ambient aerosol load at two German Christmas markets. In contrast to previous studies, which often focus on individual aspects or emission variables, this broad and coherent approach allows a comparison of the influence of different parameters (e.g., ingredients, cooking method, cooking temperature, cooking activities) on the emissions. We found an influence of cooking emissions on six variables: number concentration of smaller (particle diameter dp > 5 nm) and larger (dp > 250 nm) particles, particulate matter (PM: PM1, PM2.5, PM10), black carbon (BC), PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), and organic aerosol mass concentration. In general, similar emission characteristics were observed for dishes with the same cooking method, mainly due to similar cooking temperature and use of oil. The temporal dynamics in the emissions of the aforementioned variables, as well as the sizes of the emitted particles, were mainly influenced by the cooking temperature and the activities during cooking. Emissions were quantified using emission factors, with the highest values for grilled dishes, 1 to 2 orders of magnitude lower for oil-based cooking (baking, stir-frying, deep-frying), and the lowest for boiled dishes. For the identification of cooking emissions with the Aerodyne aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS), and more generally for the identification of new AMS markers for individual organic aerosol types, we propose a new plot type that takes into account the mass spectral variability for individual aerosol types. Combining our results and those of previous studies for the quantification of cooking-related organic aerosols with the AMS, we recommend the use of relative ionization efficiency values higher than the default value for organics (RIEOrg = 1.4): 2.17 ± 0.48 for rapeseed-oil-based cooking and 5.16 ± 0.77 for soybean-oil-based cooking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown carbon aerosols (BrC), a subfraction of organic aerosols, significantly influence the atmospheric environment, climate and human health. The North China Plain (NCP) is a hotspot for BrC research in China, yet our understanding of the optical properties of BrC in rural regions is still very limited. In this study, we characterize the chemical components and light absorption of BrC at a rural site during winter in the NCP. The average mass concentration of PM1 is 135.1 ± 82.3 μg/m3; organics and nitrate are the main components of PM1. The absorption coefficient of BrC (babs,BrC) is 53.6 ± 45.7 Mm−1, accounting for 39.5 ± 10.2% of the total light absorption at 370 nm. Diurnal variations reveal that the babs,BrC and organics are lower in the afternoon, attributed to the evolution of planetary boundary layers. BrC is mainly emitted locally, and both the aqueous phase and the photooxidation reactions can increase babs,BrC. Notably, the babs,BrC is reduced when RH > 65%. During foggy conditions, reactions in the aqueous phase facilitate the formation of secondary components and contribute to the bleaching of BrC. This process ultimately causes a decrease in both the absorption Ångström exponent (AAE) and the mass absorption efficiency (MAE). In contrast, the babs,BrC, along with AAE and MAE, rise significantly due to substantial primary emissions. This study enhances our understanding of the light absorption of BrC in rural polluted regions of the NCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the physicochemical properties of PM2.5, especially among secondary aerosols, based on the particulate matter and gaseous precursors in Yongin, Korea measured between February and June 2022. A comparative analysis of PM composition across two seasons highlighted the atmospheric characteristics of this suburban area. As observed, the average PM2.5 concentrations in February and March were higher than those in May and June, with NO3− being particularly predominant during the colder months when PM2.5 levels were elevated. During this period, the high levels of gaseous precursors such as NOX, HNO3, and NMHC likely contributed to secondary aerosol formation. The intermediate oxidation states of organic matter in Yongin indicate its suburban characteristic, which is intermediate between urban and rural areas. Inorganic aerosols were enriched with (NH4)2SO4 with sufficient NH3 availability, and then the formation of NH4NO3 was promoted through the reaction of the same phase (gas–gas) HNO3 with NH3. Additionally, the temperature variations influenced the PM2.5 composition, promoting the production of NH4NO3 in February–March. In Yongin, HNO3 acted as a limiting factor in NH4NO3 production. Thus, the management of precursor gases such as HNO3 and NO2 is crucial during periods of high PM2.5 in the colder seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentrated Growth Factor (CGF) is a highly effective biomaterial known for its ability to promote tissue regeneration. While it's been studied extensively in intraoral procedures and bone grafting, its benefits in maxillary sinus lifting lack substantial evidence. This review aimed to evaluate CGF's effectiveness in maxillary sinus augmentation, focusing on clinical, radiographic, and histological outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases using specific mesh terms and keywords and adhered to PRISMA guidelines. Studies up to March 2024 involving transcrestal or lateral maxillary sinus floor elevation with CGF, either alone or in combination with grafting materials, were included. Out of 783 publications, 13 studies met the eligibility criteria. The review assessed CGF's role in minimizing postoperative complications, enhancing new bone formation, and improving implant survival. Despite data variability among studies, the majority reported that CGF positively influenced maxillary sinus augmentation outcomes. While more robust randomized clinical trials are required to draw definitive conclusions, initial results are promising, and the findings suggest that CGF utilization in maxillary sinus augmentation seems to enhance clinical outcomes by promoting vascularization and regeneration at the surgical sites and improving both the quality and quantity of newly formed sinus bone. Furthermore, it exhibits potential for improving postoperative sequelae and achieving high implant survival rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air exchange rate is a key determinant of indoor air quality which is highly variable within the rooms of a naturally ventilated terraced house (townhouse). Window opening can increase the air exchange rate, but internal door opening between rooms inside decreases the rate. Inert perfluorocarbon gas‐phase tracers demonstrated flow within the house, and the penetration of tracers released outside into the house showed a strong dependence on wind speed and wind direction. Between experiments, it was found that the tracer could be detected within certain parts of the house weeks after the initial release, with implications for pollutants and their impact on the indoor environment. A limited number of reactive tracer experiments suggested an upper limit for indoor [OH]~1 × 105 molecule cm-3 with up to 0.5 ppt of [NO3] estimated, leading to an estimated indoor lifetime for d5 isoprene of many hours. Ultrafine particulate matter generated in the kitchen travels throughout the house, and the persistence of elevated aerosol concentrations is seen even in well‐ventilated rooms, with implications for particle exposure in the evening and during the night. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the efficiency and applicability of a HONO collection system that incorporates an ultrasonic nozzle and spray chamber for the measurement of ambient air. The system demonstrates (1) a remarkable efficiency of 97.7% across two serial stages, (2) lower detection limits of 0.15 ppbv for HONO, and (3) an absence of interference from NO2 or OH radicals. Practical ambient monitoring with the HONO collection system revealed typical diurnal variations in HONO, O3, and HNO3 concentrations, aligning with photolysis dynamics. Notably, HONO concentrations peaked at 0.37 ppb during nighttime and decreased to 0.27 ppb by midday. O3 demonstrated an inverse relationship with HONO, especially during ozone depletion phases, with r2 values of 0.94, 0.81, and 0.52 across various intervals. The HONO/NOx ratio during periods of enhanced HONO suggested the presence of additional formation mechanisms beyond heterogeneous NOx reactions. Moreover, ozone levels often fell below 20 ppb, indicating a consistent inverse correlation with HONO, thereby reaffirming further mechanisms of HONO formation beyond heterogeneous NOx reactions. The real-time atmospheric chemical reactions involving HONO, monitored concurrently with O3 and NOx, were effectively validated by the HONO collection system employed in this investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonia and amines play critical roles in secondary aerosol formation, especially in urban environments. However, fast measurements of ammonia and amines in the atmosphere are very scarce. We measured ammonia and amines with a chemical ionization mass spectrometer (CIMS) at the urban center in Houston, Texas, the fourth most populated urban site in the United States, during October 2022. Ammonia concentrations were on average four parts per billion by volume (ppbv), while the concentration of an individual amine ranged from several parts per trillion by volume (pptv) to hundreds of pptv. These reduced nitrogen compounds were more abundant during weekdays than on weekends and correlated with measured CO concentrations, implying they were mostly emitted from pollutant sources. Both ammonia and amines showed a distinct diurnal cycle, with higher concentrations in the warmer afternoon, indicating dominant gas-to-particle conversion processes taking place with the changing ambient temperatures. Studies have shown that dimethylamine is critical for new particle formation (NPF) in the polluted boundary layer, but currently there are no amine emission inventories in global climate models (as opposed to ammonia). Our observations made in the very polluted area of Houston, as well as a less polluted site (Kent, Ohio) from our previous study (You et al., 2014), indicate there is a consistent ratio of dimethylamine over ammonia at these two sites. Thus, our observations can provide a relatively constrained proxy of dimethylamine using 0.1 % ammonia concentrations at polluted sites in the United States to model NPF processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paclitaxel is one of the most widely utilized anticancer drug. It displays a range of antitumor action, particularly against ovarian cancer, urologic malignancies, head tumor, and Kaposi's sarcoma. However, due to its highly lipophilic nature, poor fluid dissolvability of less 0.01 mg/mL and lack of ionizing functionalities which may enhance its solubility, there are substantial challenges associated with Paclitaxel delivery. Paclitaxel exhibited promising effects when formulated in combination with ethanol and Cremophor EL, as Taxol®. However, it is associated with various side effects, including hypersensitivity, hypotension, and peripheral neuropathy. The albumin-based Paclitaxel, Abraxane®, is a superior alternative to Taxol® as it diminishes the side effects related to Cremophor EL. Abraxane® is regarded as the gold standard for cancer treatment, but its 21% response rate suggests that more research is needed. Furthermore, the large-scale clinical use of this drug has faced considerable delay because of the absence of suitable delivery vehicles. Therefore, necessitates is the development of an alternate form of Paclitaxel that has both superior aqueous solubility as well as fewer side-effects. During the last decade, various methodologies have been explored to improve Paclitaxel's solubility with the help of co-solvents and inclusion complexes. Additionally, various methodologies report of passive targeting of cancer cells using nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, Rotaxane (a mechanically interlocked molecular system), liposomes, micelles, emulsions, gels, pastes, etc. Herein, we have comprised a brief report on various delivery techniques for Paclitaxel with improved therapeutic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]