Advances in Materials Science Research. Volume 44 provides an overview of the emerging field of phosphorescent nanomaterials, including synthesis protocols and characterization issues. The authors discuss the synthesis methods and characterization of synthesized compounds by X-ray powder diffraction analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The carefully designed techniques for engineering process-induced strain to enhance carrier mobility or transform the band-gap from indirect to direct nano-devices are described. A compilation of investigations related to the formation of cerium coatings on an AZ91D Mg alloy are examined in an effort to improve its corrosion resistance in simulated body fluid. Following this, an article reports on an insightful portable microfluidic experimental setup for the fast and ultraselective detection of Hg2+ ions in a picomolar range using a cantilever-based piezoresistive sensor. The concluding study explores the behavior of the order parameter and the magnetization of antiferromagnetic solids subjected to mutually parallel staggered and magnetic fields.