bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accumulation of phenanthrene and its metabolites in lettuce (Lactuca sativaL.) as affected by magnetic carbon nanotubes and dissolved humic acids
Authors: Jia Weili , Ma Chuanxin , Yin Mengfei , Sun Hongwen , Zhao Qing , White Jason C. , Wang Cuiping , Xing Baoshan
Published: October 2020

Accumulation and metabolites of phenanthrene in lettuce as affected by magnetic carbon nanotubes and dissolved humic acids were investigated under hydroponic conditions.
Mechanical phenotyping of breast cell lines by in-flow deformation-dependent dynamics under tuneable compressive forces
Authors: Dannhauser David , Maremonti Maria Isabella , Panzetta Valeria , Rossi Domenico , Netti Paolo Antonio , Causa Filippo
Published: October 2020

Tuneable viscoelastic forces and a properly engineered microfluidic design induce in-flow deformation-dependent dynamics for cell mechanical measurements.
Nanoscopy for endosomal escape quantification
Authors: Andrian Teodora , Riera Roger , Pujals Silvia , Albertazzi Lorenzo
Published: October 2020

How nanoscopy can be applied towards the study and quantification of endosomal escape of nanoparticles.
Micro/nanostructured gas sensors: the physics behind the nanostructure growth, sensing and selectivity mechanisms
Authors: Chowdhury N. K. , Bhowmik B.
Published: October 2020

Research focus on control growth of nanostructures, understanding of sensing mechanism through band model, LUMO energy, defect state density. Further, role of electrode for sensing and substrate for devices reliability has been discussed.
Mass spectrometry imaging and monitoring of in vivo glutathione-triggered cisplatin release from nanoparticles in the kidneys
Authors: Chung Arthur C. K. , Li Xuan , Li Wai-Chung , Wang Tao , Lee Hin-Kiu , Jin Lijian , Cai Zongwei , Leung Ken Cham-Fai
Published: October 2020

An increasing number of studies have reported the use of various nanoparticles to encapsulate cisplatin, a frontline chemotherapeutic drug against a broad-spectrum of cancers, for overcoming its inherent drawbacks in clinical applications.
Phenanthroimidazole derivatives as a chemosensor for picric acid: a first realistic approach
Authors: Ahmed Ruby , Ali Abid , Ahmad Musheer , Alsalme Ali , Khan Rais Ahmad , Ali Farman
Published: October 2020

A series of phenanthroimidazole (PI) derivatives (M1–M3): 2-phenyl-1H-phenanthro [9,10-d]imidazole (M1), 2-anthryl-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazole (M2), and 2-pyrenyl-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazole (M3) were synthesized and characterized using various spectroscopic techniques.
A modular strategy for fabrication of responsive nanocomposites using functionalized oligocaprolactones and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles
Authors: Sadat-Shojai Mehdi , Ghadiri-Ghalenazeri Saeed
Published: October 2020

A systematic approach was used to fabricate a modulated supramolecular nanocomposite with a bioactivity characteristic and an exciting self-healing ability.
A turn-on Schiff base fluorescent probe for the exogenous and endogenous Fe3+ ion sensing and bioimaging of living cells
Authors: Hou Lingjie , Liu Tao , Gong Yaling , Li Jin , Deng Chenhua , Zhang Caifeng , Wang Yu , Shuang Shaomin , Liang Wenting
Published: October 2020

A Schiff base fluorescent probe, namely naphthalic anhydride – (2-pyridine) hydrazone (NAH), has been synthesized and developed for the highly selective and sensitive monitoring of Fe3+ ions in an aqueous solution and living cells.
Strong interfacial coupling for NiS thin layer covered CdS nanorods with highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Chen Zhaohui , Cheng Chuchu , Xing Fangshu , Huang Caijin
Published: October 2020

The formation of NiS/CdS covered heterojunctions promotes the separation and migration of photoinduced charges, thus boosting the photocatalytic H2 production.
Advanced non-noble materials in bifunctional catalysts for ORR and OER toward aqueous metal–air batteries
Authors: Zhang Yun-Long , Goh Kokswee , Zhao Lei , Sui Xu-Lei , Gong Xiao-Fei , Cai Jia-Jun , Zhou Qing-Yan , Zhang Hong-Da , Li Lin , Kong Fan-Rong , Gu Da-Ming , Wang Zhen-Bo
Published: October 2020

Different types of advanced non-noble materials in bifunctional catalysts for ORR and OER.
An acid and alkali-resistant triboelectric nanogenerator
Authors: Wu Jun-Peng , Liang Wen , Song Wei-Zhi , Zhou Li-Na , Wang Xiao-Xiong , Ramakrishna Seeram , Long Yun-Ze
Published: October 2020

An acid- and alkali-resistant TENG based on a superhydrophobic sintered PVA–PTFE composite membrane.
Recent advances in the synthesis of plakortin-type polyketides
Authors: Li Qingong , Yang Hongzhi , Tang Yefeng
Published: October 2020

The recent progress in the synthesis of plakortin-type polyketides is summarized, with an emphasis on the key elements enabling rapid assembly of the polycyclic cores of chased targets.
Core hyper-cross-linked star polymers from block polymer micelle precursors
Authors: Park Jongmin , Smith Stefan J. D. , Wood Colin D. , Mulet Xavier , Seo Myungeun
Published: October 2020

Hyper-cross-linking of a core of block polymer micelles produces core cross-linked polymer with a spacious hyper-cross-linked core, which is solution-processible.
Analysis of cyclic polymer purity by size exclusion chromatography: a model system
Authors: Shi Yanlin , Chen Sung-Po R. , Jia Zhongfan , Monteiro Michael J.
Published: October 2020

Because cyclic polymers have intriguing physical properties, considerable synthetic strategies have been developed to create a wide variety of cyclic architectures.
Guaiazulene revisited: a new material for green-processed optoelectronics
Authors: Bilger David , Park Kwang-Won , Abdel-Maksoud Ali , Andrew Trisha L.
Published: October 2020

Oxidative polymerization of naturally-derived guaiazulene with earth-abundant iron oxidants produces a low bandgap polymer for optoelectronic applications.
An ultralight charged MOF as fluoro-switchable monitor for assorted organo-toxins: size-exclusive dye scrubbing and anticounterfeiting applications via Tb3+ sensitization
Authors: Seal Nilanjan , Goswami Ranadip , Singh Manpreet , Pillai Renjith S. , Neogi Subhadip
Published: October 2020

The trifunctional Li(i)-MOF acts as fluoro-switchable sensor for two organo-toxins, invisible-ink based data encrypter and size–specific dye scavenger, where DFT calculations support sensing and adsorption mechanisms considering extended structure.
Exploring the effect of a peptide additive on struvite formation and morphology: a high-throughput method
Authors: Hostert Jacob D. , Kamlet Olivia , Su Zihang , Kane Naomi S. , Renner Julie N.
Published: October 2020

A high-throughput platform was developed to analyze struvite formation, finding that peptide addition modulates growth in a potentially favorable way.
Preparation of terpyridine-functionalized paramagnetic nickel–zinc ferrite microspheres for adsorbing Pb(ii), Hg(ii), and Cd(ii) from water
Authors: Ma Jie , Wang Huiling , Zhang Manman , Li Denghui , Liu Lian , Yang Honggao
Published: October 2020

A paramagnetic microsphere combining special functional groups may be one kind of the most promising methods for heavy metal adsorption, due to their specific separation capacity, selectivity and reusability.
A catalyst-free and recycle-reinforcing elastomer vitrimer with exchangeable links
Authors: Wang Jinyun , Chen Shubin , Lin Tengfei , Ke Jinhuang , Chen Tianxiang , Wu Xiao , Lin Cong
Published: October 2020

A catalyst-free elastomer vitrimer was prepared through reactive blending of commercial available XNBR and ENR with exceptional recycle-reinforcing property.
Significant changes in yields of 7-hydroxy-coumarin-3-carboxylic acid produced under FLASH radiotherapy conditions
Authors: Kusumoto Tamon , Kitamura Hisashi , Hojo Satoru , Konishi Teruaki , Kodaira Satoshi
Published: October 2020

Yield of 7-hydroxy-coumarin-3-carboxylic acid (7OH–C3CA) significantly decreases at FLASH condition with the dose rate of >40 Gy s−1, compared to that at conventional condition of 0.05 Gy s−1, due to the oxygen depletion in the solution.
Structure, microstructure and magnetic investigation of the hexagonal δ-FeSe nanophase produced by mechanochemical synthesis
Authors: Ulbrich K. F. , Paes V. Z. C. , Geshev J. , Campos C. E. M.
Published: October 2020

We present a systematic structural, microstructural and magnetic characterization of the hexagonal δ-FeSe nanophase produced by mechanochemical synthesis. The aged samples showed chemical instability and lower values of magnetic parameters.
Progress of the development of reactors for pyrolysis of municipal waste
Authors: Gholizadeh Mortaza , Li Chao , Zhang Shu , Wang Yi , Niu Shengli , Li Yingjie , Hu Xun
Published: October 2020

The development of reactors with varied configurations for the pyrolysis of municipal waste is discussed in this review.
Mechanochemical enzymes and protein machines as hydrodynamic force dipoles: the active dimer model
Authors: Hosaka Yuto , Komura Shigeyuki , Mikhailov Alexander S.
Published: October 2020

We investigate the intensity and statistical properties of force dipoles in the minimal active dimer model of a mechanochemical enzyme.
A multiscale coarse-grained model to predict the molecular architecture and drug transport properties of modified chitosan hydrogels
Authors: Singhal Ankush , Schneible John D. , Lilova Radina L. , Hall Carol K. , Menegatti Stefano , Grafmüller Andrea
Published: October 2020

Hydrogels constructed with functionalized polysaccharides are of interest in a multitude of applications, especially in the design of therapeutic and regenerative formulations. Computational models can efficiently guide their design.
Influence of macromolecular crowding on the charge regulation of intrinsically disordered proteins
Authors: Blanco Pablo M. , Madurga Sergio , Garcés Josep L. , Mas Francesc , Dias Rita S.
Published: October 2020

The coupling between the ionization and conformational properties of two IDPs, histatin-5 and β-amyloid 42, in the presence of neutral and charged crowders is studied by performing semi-grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations.
Seawater-responsive SiO2 nanoparticles for in situ generation of zwitterionic polydimethylsiloxane antifouling coatings with underwater superoleophobicity
Authors: Tan Jinyan , Xu Jiakang , Wang Donghui , Yang Jinlong , Zhou Shuxue
Published: October 2020

A seawater-triggered in situ generation strategy yields underwater superoleophobic PDMS coatings for marine antifouling.
Giant piezoresistive gauge factor in vein-membrane/graphene sensors with a wide linear working range
Authors: Li Zongheng , Ning Huiming , Hu Ning , Li Yuanqing , Qiao Long
Published: October 2020

Here, a piezoresistive sensor was fabricated by combining graphene and the veins ofMagnolia henryi.
Light-directed on-chip shape transformation of a single gold nanoparticle
Authors: Long Yinfeng , Wang Shuangshuang , Wang Yunxia , Qiao Yan , Ding Tao
Published: October 2020

Surface plasmons enable controllable shape transformation based on the dissolution and re-deposition of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs).
Strong plasmon–exciton coupling in colloidal halide perovskite nanocrystals near a metal film
Authors: Guvenc C. Meric , Polat Nahit , Balci Sinan
Published: October 2020

We herein demonstrate that colloidal perovskite nanoplatelets and nanowires placed in close proximity to chemically functionalized metal films show mixed plasmon-exciton formation, plexciton formation, in the strong coupling regime.
Survey of Hearing Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Service Delivery
Authors: Gaeta Laura
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study aimed to explore older adults' perceptions of their hearing health during the stay-at-home order issued during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

A 24-item survey was completed by 150 community-dwelling older adults in the United States. Participants were asked about their self-reported hearing status, use of hearing aids and difficulty wearing masks while wearing hearing aids, relative importance of their hearing health, priority of their hearing health during the COVID-19 pandemic, difficulty communicating with masks, and utilization of telepractice services.

Results

The majority of participants did not wear hearing aids despite reporting that they had at least a little trouble hearing. Most participants reported that their hearing health was important and indicated that they were likely to visit their audiologist for an in-person or virtual visit during the pandemic.

Conclusion

Audiologists should consider telepractice or remote service delivery options during and after the COVID-19 pandemic to meet the needs of their patients.
Oscillations of 2D ESTER models
Authors: Reese D. R. , Mirouh G. M. , Espinosa Lara F. , Rieutord M. , Putigny B.
Published: October 2020

Context.Recent numerical and theoretical considerations have shown that low-degree acoustic modes in rapidly rotating stars follow an asymptotic formula. In parallel, recent studies have revealed the presence of regular pulsation frequency patterns in rapidly rotatingδScuti stars that seem to match theoretical expectations.

Aims.In this context, a key question is whether strong gradients or discontinuities can adversely affect the asymptotic frequency pattern to the point of hindering its identification. Other important questions are how rotational splittings are affected by the 2D rotation profiles expected from baroclinic effects and whether it is possible to probe the rotation profile using these splittings.

Methods.In order to address these questions, we numerically calculate stellar pulsation modes in continuous and discontinuous rapidly rotating models produced by the 2D Evolution STEllaire en Rotation (ESTER) code. This code self-consistently calculates the rotation profile based on baroclinic effects and uses a spectral multi-domain approach, thus making it possible to introduce discontinuities at the domain interfaces without loss of numerical accuracy. The pulsation calculations are carried out using an adiabatic version of the Two-dimensional Oscillation Program (TOP) code. The variational principle is then used to confirm the high numerical accuracy of the pulsation frequencies and to derive an integral formula for the generalised rotational splittings. Acoustic glitch theory, combined with ray dynamics, is applied to the discontinuous models in order to interpret their pulsation spectra.

Results.Our results show that the generalised rotational splittings are very well approximated by the integral formula, except for modes involved in avoided crossings. This potentially allows the application of inverse theory for probing the rotation profile. We also show that glitch theory applied along the island mode orbit can correctly predict the periodicity of the glitch frequency pattern produced by the discontinuity or Γ1dip related to the He II ionisation zone in some of the models. Furthermore, the asymptotic frequency pattern remains sufficiently well preserved to potentially allow its detection in observed stars.
Time-dependent escape of cosmic rays from supernova remnants potentially at the origin of the very-high-energy cosmic-ray gradient of the Galactic center
Authors: Jouvin L. , Lemière A. , Terrier R.
Published: October 2020

The distribution of the very-high-energy diffuse emission in the inner 200 pc measured by H.E.S.S. indicates the existence of a pronounced cosmic-ray (CR) gradient peaking on the Galactic center (GC). Previous studies have shown that these data are consistent with a scenario in which the CRs are diffused away from a stationary source at the GC. We previously showed that, taking the 3D gas distribution and a realistic distribution of supernova explosions into account, CRs accelerated in supernova remnants should account for a large fraction of the GC CRs observed by H.E.S.S.; but the model did not fully reproduce the apparent over-density in the inner 30 pc. In this work, we study the time-energy dependent cosmic rays escape from the remnant that is expected to occur when the shock wave decelerates in the surrounding medium. We show that the resulting CR distribution follows the quasi-stationary profile observed by H.E.S.S. more closely. The main signature is that the energy-dependent escape creates a strong dependency of the morphology of the γ-ray emission with the energy. The existence of this energy dependency should be observable by the Cherenkov Telescope Array.
Stress analysis of symmetric laminates containing elliptical or circular holes under inplane loading
Authors: Jabbour Toni , Abdul Wahab Mohamad , Nasr Jose
Published: October 2020

An analytical method, for determining the behavior under inplane loading of symmetric composite laminates containing an elliptical or a circular hole, is proposed in this article. This method is developed using conformal mapping and the complex variable approach which is based on the parametric representation of a given ellipse. The results obtained by this method are compared with those obtained by finite elements. This method allows the better understanding of the behavior of composite plates under in plane loading for different ratios of the minor axis to the major axis of the hole, different types of loading, different load ratios, and different types of materials.
Fuzzy Gilmore and Gomory algorithm: Application in robotic flow shops with the effects of job-dependent transportation and set-ups
Authors: Sotudian Shahabeddin , Sadat Asl Ali Akbar , Fazel Zarandi Mohammad Hossein
Published: October 2020

This paper addresses the scheduling of robotic cells with job-dependent transportation and set-up effects with fuzzy methodology. Since transportation and set-up times are a large portion of the production time in a flexible manufacturing cell, ignoring these parameters may cause significant errors in determining the optimal makespan. Furthermore, determining the exact values of these time parameters is a challenging task. To overcome this problem, we represent these parameters using fuzzy L-R numbers. Using the capability of fuzzy numbers to represent approximate values, we can represent these parameters without losing valuable information. For generating the optimal part sequencing in the cells, the Gilmore and Gomory algorithm is modified, and instead, a fuzzy Gilmore and Gomory algorithm is developed. We compare the results of the proposed fuzzy method with those of crisp ones. The results indicate the superiority of the proposed algorithm in terms of robustness, flexibility, and reduction of makespan.
On the dominator chromatic number of the generalized caterpillars forest
Authors: Aioula Soumia , Chellali Mustapha , Ikhlef-Eschouf Noureddine
Published: October 2020

A dominator coloring is a proper coloring of the vertices of a graph such that each vertex of the graph dominates all vertices of at least one color class (possibly its own class). The dominator chromatic number of a graph G is the minimum number of color classes in a dominator coloring of G. In this paper, we determine the exact value of the dominator chromatic number of a subclass of forests which we call, generalized caterpillars forest, where every vertex of degree at least three is a support vertex.
Obstetric History and Risk of Short Cervix in Women with a Prior Preterm Birth
Authors: Frey Heather A. , McLaughlin Eric M. , Hade Erinn M. , Finneran Matthew M. , Rood Kara M. , Shellhaas Cynthia , Landon Mark B.
Published: October 2020

Objective We aimed to assess the relationship between obstetric history and incidence of short cervical length (CL) at <24 weeks gestational age (GA) in women with a prior spontaneous preterm birth (PTB).

Study Design Women with a singleton gestation and a history of spontaneous PTB on progesterone who received prenatal care at a single center from 2011 to 2016 were included. Those who did not undergo screening or had a history-indicated cerclage were excluded. The associations between short CL (<25 mm) before 24 weeks and obstetrical factors including: number of prior PTBs, history of term birth, and GA of earliest spontaneous PTB were estimated through modified Poisson regression, adjusting for confounding factors. Multiple pregnancies for the same woman were accounted for through robust sandwich standard error estimation.

Results Among 773 pregnancies, 29% (n = 224) had a CL <25 mm before 24 weeks. The number of prior PTBs was not associated with short CL, but a prior full-term delivery conferred a lower risk of short CL (absolute risk reduction or aRR 0.79, 95% CI 0.63–1.00). Earliest GA of prior spontaneous PTB was associated with short CL. The strongest association was observed in women with a prior PTB at 160/7 to 236/7weeks (aRR 1.98, 95% CI: 1.46–2.70), compared with those with deliveries at 340/7 to 366/7 weeks. Yet, even women whose earliest PTB was 340/7 to 366/7 weeks remained at risk for a short CL, as 21% had a CL <25 mm. The number of prior PTBs did not modify the effect of GA of the earliest prior PTB (interaction test: p = 0.70).

Conclusion GA of earliest spontaneous PTB, but not the number of prior PTBs, is associated with short CL. Nevertheless, women with a history of later PTBs remain at sufficiently high risk of having a short CL at <24 weeks gestation that we cannot recommend modifications to existing CL screening guidelines in this group of women.

Key Points
Maternal Marijuana Exposure, Feto-Placental Weight Ratio, and Placental Histology
Authors: Metz Torri D. , Allshouse Amanda A. , Pinar Halit , Varner Michael , Smid Marcela C. , Hogue Carol , Dudley Donald J. , Bukowski Radek , Saade George R. , Goldenberg Robert L. , Reddy Uma , Silver Robert M.
Published: October 2020

Objective Marijuana use is associated with placenta-mediated adverse pregnancy outcomes including fetal growth restriction, but the mechanism remains uncertain. The objective was to evaluate the association between maternal marijuana use and the feto-placental weight ratio (FPR). Secondarily, we aimed to compare placental histology of women who used marijuana to those who did not.

Study Design This was a secondary analysis of singleton pregnancies enrolled in a multicenter and case–control stillbirth study. Prior marijuana use was detected by electronic medical record abstraction or cord homogenate positive for 11-nor-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic acid. Prior tobacco use was detected by self-report or presence of maternal serum cotinine. Stillbirths and live births were considered separately. The primary outcome was FPR. Association of marijuana use with FPR was estimated with multivariable linear modeling adjusted for fetal sex, preterm birth, and tobacco use. Comparisons between groups for placental histology were made using Chi-square and stratified by live birth and stillbirth, term and preterm deliveries, and fetal sex.

Results Of 1,027 participants, 224 were stillbirths and 803 were live births. Overall, 41 (4%) women used marijuana during the pregnancy. The FPR ratio was lower among exposed offspring but reached statistical significance only for term stillbirths (mean 6.84 with marijuana use vs. mean 7.8 without use, p < 0.001). In multivariable modeling, marijuana use was not significantly associated with FPR (p = 0.09). There were no differences in histologic placental features among those with and without marijuana use overall or in stratified analyses.

Conclusion Exposure to marijuana may not be associated with FPR. Similarly, there were no placental histologic features associated with marijuana exposure. Further study of the influence of maternal marijuana use on placental development and function is warranted to better understand the association between prenatal marijuana use and poor fetal growth.

Key Points
Accounting for material imperfections in the design and optimization of low cost Halbach magnets
Authors: Bogaychuk A. , Kuzmin V.
Published: October 2020

We demonstrate an experimental method for the improvement of the magnetic field homogeneity in Halbach magnets by taking magnet material imperfection into account. This method relies on the determination of the magnetization magnitude only for individual magnet blocks based on nuclear magnetic resonance field measurements in a simplified system, which, in our case, consists of four blocks. Then, a set of configurations with highest homogeneities can be found from simplified field map simulations of all possible configurations or by applying sophisticated optimum search algorithms if the number of blocks is large. Finally, the residual effect of angular magnetization deviations can be reduced by the experimental selection of the best configuration from the set found on the simulation step. This selection strategy is based on the conclusions made from statistical analysis of simulated field maps. By applying the described method to our eight-element magnet, we experimentally achieved tenfold field homogeneity improvement. Thus, in the best configuration, we obtained an average value of the magnetic field of 598.0 mT and a half-width of 226.9 ppm for a sample with a diameter of 4 mm and a height of 10 mm. These parameters along with the compact magnet size (40 × 40 × 102 mm3) and weight (0.6 kg) provide reasonable magnet quality compared with analogous systems having more complex magnet arrangements and significantly higher costs.
Designing thermal functional materials by coupling thermal transport calculations and machine learning
Authors: Ju Shenghong , Shimizu Shuntaro , Shiomi Junichiro
Published: October 2020

Advances in materials informatics (MI), which combines material property calculations/measurements and informatics algorithms, have realized properties in the nanostructures of thermal functional materials beyond what is accessible using empirical approaches based on physical instincts and models. In this Tutorial, we introduce technological procedures and underlying knowledge of MI combining thermal transport calculations and machine learning using an optimization problem of superlattice structures as an example (sample script available in the supplement). To provide fundamental guidance on how to use MI, we describe practical details about descriptors, objective functions, property calculators, machine learning (Bayesian optimization) algorithms, and optimization efficiencies. We then briefly review the recent successful applications of MI to design thermoelectric and thermal radiation materials. Finally, we summarize and provide future perspectives about the topic.
Superconducting nanowire single photon detectors based on disordered NbRe films
Authors: Cirillo C. , Chang J. , Caputo M. , Los J. W. N. , Dorenbos S. , Esmaeil Zadeh I. , Attanasio C.
Published: October 2020

Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors (SNSPDs) based on Nb0.15Re0.85 disordered nanowires are developed. The devices have a meander structure of wires 50–100 nm wide and cover a circular detection area with a diameter of about 10–16 μm. The main figures of merit of the detectors are extracted from a flood illumination process at 2.8 K, featuring a saturated internal efficiency up to λ= 1301 nm, recovery times between about 8 and 19 ns, and a jitter of about 35 ps. These results confirm that Nb0.15Re0.85 is a promising candidate for the realization of fast SNSPDs, as recently suggested.
Efficiently coupled microring circuit for on-chip cavity QED with trapped atoms
Authors: Chang Tzu-Han , Zhou Xinchao , Zhu Ming , Fields Brian M. , Hung Chen-Lung
Published: October 2020

We present a complete fabrication study of an efficiently coupled microring optical circuit tailored for cavity quantum electrodynamics with trapped atoms. The microring structures are fabricated on a transparent membrane with high in-vacuum fiber edge-coupling efficiency in a broad frequency band. In addition, a bus waveguide pulley coupler realizes critical coupling to the microrings at both of the cesium D-line frequencies, while high coupling efficiency is achieved at the cesium “magic” wavelengths for creating a lattice of two-color evanescent field traps above a microring. The presented platform holds promise for realizing a robust atom-nanophotonics hybrid quantum device.
Effects of annealing and stress on domain switching in titanate-based single crystals
Authors: Zhu Wenliang , Higashi Takaaki , Zhu Jiliang , Marin Elia , Pezzotti Giuseppe
Published: October 2020

In this paper, domain switching induced by applied stress and thermal treatment was compared in (Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3−xBaTiO3 (NBT-BT) solid solutions and the monolithic components by Raman spectroscopy. Despite possessing a Ti-O6 structure, the titanate materials exhibit quite different patterns of switching upon indentation generation, which might be associated with the presence of distinct stable polarizations. Significant stress induced a→c domain switching occurs around the indentation print and along the cracks for stress relaxation during crack propagation in the case of BT, while for NBT and related solution, remnant domains exist and a switching of the domains to other polarization, e.g., ⟨110⟩ may occur, showing a dependence on the BT addition content. Thermal treatments at temperatures above the Curie point were found to show different influences on domain patterns due to distinct changes in the microstructure in the presence of residual stress fields, suggesting the possibility of a combinatory effect of thermal treatment and residual stress for domain controls.
Assessment of PBE+U and HSE06 methods and determination of optimal parameter U for the structural and energetic properties of rare earth oxides
Authors: Li Shikun , Li Yong , Bäumer Marcus , Moskaleva Lyudmila V.
Published: October 2020

Rare earth oxides are attracting increasing interest as a relatively unexplored group of materials with potential applications in heterogeneous catalysis and electrocatalysis; therefore, a credible and universal computational approach is needed for modeling their reactivity. In this work, we systematically assessed the performance of the PBE+U method against the results of the hybrid HSE06 method with respect to the description of structural parameters and energetic properties of the selected hexagonal lanthanide sesquioxides and the cubic fluorite-type cerium dioxide. In addition, we evaluated the performance of PBE+U in describing the electronic structure and adsorption properties of the CeO2(111) and Nd2O3(0001) surfaces. The HSE06 method reproduces rather well the lattice parameters and selected energetic properties with respect to the experimental values. The PBE+U method is able to reproduce the results of HSE06 or the experimental values only if the U parameter is selected from an appropriate range of values. The U value around 3 eV gives the best description of the lattice parameters of most bulk oxides. 2 eV–3 eV is also found to be the optimal range of U for the reaction energies of bulk La2O3, Ce2O3, Nd2O3, Er2O3, and Ho2O3. U = 1 eV gives the best results for Pr2O3, Pm2O3, Eu2O3, Tm2O3, and Lu2O3, whereas Gd2O3 could not be accurately described by the PBE+U method. The U values (∼3 eV) found optimal for most bulk oxides also work well in the calculations of adsorption of small molecules on Nd2O3(0001) and CeO2(111), although larger U values are required to obtain sufficient localization of 4f electrons.
Physical implementation of dolphin biosonar to facilitate ultrasound control
Authors: Song Zhongchang , Ou Wenzhan , Dong Erqian , Zhang Jinhu , Xie Qichen , Zhang Chuang , Bai Mindong , Mooney T Aran , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2020

We demonstrated that the feats of the dolphin biosonar system can be achieved through physical implementation. Numerical and experimental results suggested that dolphins have evolved to intelligently manipulate physical laws. Gradient distributions of sound speed and density in the forehead counterpart can enhance the main beam by gathering more sound energy to reinforce the main beam and lowering side lobes. As dolphins prove to accomplish efficient control on their biosonar capabilities in multiple ways, this paper provides an additional aspect to enrich our understanding of how one of the best natural biosonar systems works and build a step to inspire additional advanced sound control systems.
Conceptual design of magnonic majority-logic gate based on channeling of spin waves in domain walls
Authors: Park Hyeon-Kyu , Lee Jong-Hyuk , Kim Sang-Koog
Published: October 2020

A three-input majority gate, which operates on the basis of majority decisions, can function as multifunctional Boolean logic gates. Here, we report a micromagnetic simulation study of a specially devised magnonic majority-logic gate that utilizes channeling of spin waves into narrow domain walls. Our model system is a four-armed cross structure where low-energy spin waves are guided and channeled along Néel-type domain walls and then interact with a single magnetic vortex positioned at the cross-point. After exciting spin waves simultaneously from the ends of three individual arms where input binary digits are encoded using spin-wave phase information, the phases of spin waves passing through the cross-point (after being scattered from the vortex) are measured as output binary digits at the end of the remaining single output arm. Consequently, the majority of the input variables determines the output signal, which is a clear sign of a majority gate. Furthermore, by setting a control input, our proposed single structure can perform multiple operations of AND-, OR-, NAND-, and NOR-gates. Finally, the gate structure and channeling spin waves into domain walls/their interaction with a vortex core have the additional merits of being free of the Joule heating typically encountered in conventional electronic devices and of having long coherence lengths.
C(sp2) – H functionalization of aldimines and related compounds: advances and prospects
Authors: Akulov Alexey A. , Varaksin Mikhail V. , Charushin Valery N. , Chupakhin Oleg N.
Published: October 2020

This is the first systematic review of the most relevant approaches to direct C(sp2)–H bond functionalization of azomethine derivatives. The scope of the applicability of various transformations is analyzed. The review assesses prospects of the application of this functionalization strategy in the multistep synthesis of valuable compounds for use in medicinal chemistry, materials science and related areas.

The bibliography includes 124 references.
Welfare indicators associated with feed conversion ratio and daily feed intake of growing-finishing pigs
Authors: Pierozan C. R. , Dias C. P. , Temple D. , Manteca X. , da Silva C. A.
Published: October 2020

Context Understanding the welfare indicators that affect animal performance can facilitate modifications that improve both animal welfare and profitability. Aims A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of animal welfare indicators and quantify their possible associations with feed conversion ratio (FCR) and daily feed intake (DFI) of growing-finishing pigs (Sus scrofa). Methods Data from 46 farms were collected. The herds ranged from 360 to 2500 pigs, which were aged between 75 and 173 days, and were managed on an all-in all-out basis. The welfare indicators were evaluated once on each farm using the methodology of the Welfare Quality® assessment protocol for pigs. Multiple linear mixed models were used to assess the associations of welfare with FCR and DFI according to the production stage at which the pigs were evaluated on the farm. Key results The welfare indicators with the highest average prevalence were frequency of coughing (35.7%), moderate bursitis (31.1%), and moderate and severe soiling with manure (18.8 and 27.7% respectively). Most of the remaining indicators related to poor welfare had prevalence values of less than 1%. The mean prevalence of positive social behaviour (such as sniffing/nosing/licking) was 14.4% and that of negative social behaviour (NSB; such as aggressive interactions) was 3.1%. The average space allowance (measured in 460 pens) was 1.04 ± 0.13 m2/pig (ranging from 0.78 to 1.36 m2/pig). Better FCRs were associated with a low prevalence of NSB (P < 0.05), a low prevalence of coughing (P < 0.01), absence of lameness problems (P < 0.001), and small space allowances (P < 0.05). Lower DFI values were associated with a low prevalence of NSB (P < 0.05), a high prevalence of moderate hernias (P < 0.01), a low prevalence of other active behaviours (such as eating and drinking) (P < 0.001), and a high prevalence of animals with wounds on the body (P < 0.05). Conclusions Few indicators related to the impairment of welfare were detected with a high prevalence, and the results suggest that the conditions related to poor welfare were associated with an impairment in animal performance. Implications The results of this study can provide the industry with comparative information to promote improvements in pig welfare. Some welfare indicators could be used on farm as predictors of performance variables; however, these indicators need validation.
The puzzle of plague transmission
Authors: Morison Patricia , Morison Ian
Published: October 2020

Bubonic plague is among the most feared diseases in human history, not only because of its death toll but also for its consequential impact on the way of life and economic endeavour of human society. Every few hundred years the advance of a pandemic has raised impotent fear, until the early 20th century when microbiological research solved the mystery of how it is transmitted to its victims, opening the way to protective measures.
The human CRY1 tail controls circadian timing by regulating its association with CLOCK:BMAL1
Authors: Parico Gian Carlo G. , Perez Ivette , Fribourgh Jennifer L. , Hernandez Britney N. , Lee Hsiau-Wei , Partch Carrie L.
Published: October 2020

Significance

Cryptochromes (CRYs) are structurally defined by an evolutionarily conserved PHR domain and divergent intrinsically disordered tails of variable length. Photosensory cryptochromes from plants and insects use reversible interactions between their PHR domain and disordered tails to control signal transduction. Although several studies have suggested that the tails of vertebrate cryptochromes influence circadian rhythms, nothing was known about the molecular mechanism. We used the DSPD CRY1Δ11 splice site variant to discover that the CRY1 tail interacts directly with its PHR domain and that the segment encoded by exon 11 regulates its affinity for CLOCK:BMAL1. Developing mechanistic insight into CRY1 regulation reveals common signaling mechanisms in cryptochromes and suggests strategies for treating prevalent circadian rhythm and sleep disorders.
Longitudinally adaptive assessment and instruction increase numerical skills of preschool children
Authors: Raudenbush Stephen W. , Hernandez Marc , Goldin-Meadow Susan , Carrazza Cristina , Foley Alana , Leslie Debbie , Sorkin Janet E. , Levine Susan C.
Published: October 2020

Significance

Socioeconomic disparities in math proficiency are observable when children enter kindergarten, and these disparities persist through the school years. Research suggests that overall proficiency at kindergarten entry depends upon specific skills that all normally developing children age 3 to 5 y can learn. We therefore designed a procedure that enables teachers to assess the skills of each child and tailor instruction to child-specific levels of skill. The procedure is iterative: Assess, teach, reassess, and teach, with three assessments per school year. We found that children in classrooms randomly assigned to this procedure gained substantially more in their numerical proficiency than did children in control classrooms. The program did not delay growth in print literacy and increased verbal proficiency.
Complementary regulation of caspase-1 and IL-1β reveals additional mechanisms of dampened inflammation in bats
Authors: Goh Geraldine , Ahn Matae , Zhu Feng , Lee Lim Beng , Luo Dahai , Irving Aaron T. , Wang Lin-Fa
Published: October 2020

Significance

Bats have been shown to dampen several key upstream pathogen and danger-associated molecular patterns, yet much of the downstream signaling is yet unknown. Here, we identify residues in caspase-1 which are critical for enzymatic activity and have been targeted for inhibition in
Pteropus
bats. Further, we discover cleavage-site flanking residues which lead to loss of IL-1β cleavage in
Myotis
bats. Thus, we report an inverse relationship between caspase-1 function and IL-1β cleavage, resulting in a consistent reduction of downstream signaling by the inflammasome across bats within the two suborders. In sum, we confirm that bats have targeted the inflammasome pathway at multiple levels and via heterogeneous strategies to reduce proinflammatory responses, thus mitigating potential immune-mediated tissue damage and disease.
Wake-sleep cycles are severely disrupted by diseases affecting cytoplasmic homeostasis
Authors: Beesley Stephen , Kim Dae Wook , D’Alessandro Matthew , Jin Yuanhu , Lee Kwangjun , Joo Hyunjeong , Young Yang , Tomko Robert J. , Faulkner John , Gamsby Joshua , Kim Jae Kyoung , Lee Choogon
Published: October 2020

Significance

Circadian rhythms including wake-sleep cycles are driven by molecular time cues generated by a self-sustaining transcriptional negative feedback loop. Among all clock proteins, PERIOD (PER) is considered the pacemaker protein because its rhythm of accumulation and nuclear entry generates the timing and duration of feedback inhibition. Here we provide a new understanding of how robust PER rhythms are generated: the collective action of interacting PER molecules, not a random mass action of individual molecules, allows compensation of spatial and temporal differences (or “noise”) of individual molecules. We also show that the collective PER rhythm requires healthy cytoplasmic trafficking, and that circadian sleep disorders can arise in such conditions as obesity, aging, and neurodegenerative disorders in which the cytoplasm becomes congested.
Insights into the composition of ancient Egyptian red and black inks on papyri achieved by synchrotron-based microanalyses
Authors: Christiansen Thomas , Cotte Marine , de Nolf Wout , Mouro Elouan , Reyes-Herrera Juan , de Meyer Steven , Vanmeert Frederik , Salvadó Nati , Gonzalez Victor , Lindelof Poul Erik , Mortensen Kell , Ryholt Kim , Janssens Koen , Larsen Sine
Published: October 2020

Significance

Ink, invented in ancient Egypt circa 5,000 y ago, is the established and time-honored medium wherewith humankind commits words to writing. A comprehensive synchrotron-based microanalysis of a considerable corpus of ancient Egyptian papyri from the Roman period, inscribed with red and black inks, reveal a hitherto undetected complex composition of inks. Highlighted by the presence of iron, the red color can be attributed to the use of ocher. Unexpectedly, lead is regularly present in both the red and black inks and is associated to phosphate, sulfate, chloride, and carboxylate ions. The analysis shows that lead was probably used as a drier rather than as a pigment, similar to its usage in 15th century Europe during the development of oil paintings.
KLHL22 maintains PD-1 homeostasis and prevents excessive T cell suppression
Authors: Zhou Xiao Albert , Zhou Jiadong , Zhao Long , Yu Guihui , Zhan Jun , Shi Chanyi , Yuan Ruoshi , Wang Yan , Chen Changfeng , Zhang Wenjia , Xu Donghao , Ye Yingjiang , Wang Weibin , Shen Zhanlong , Wang Wei , Wang Jiadong
Published: October 2020

Significance

Aberrant PD-1 expression is known to inhibit T cell effector activity and plays a pivotal role in tumor immune escape. Since maintaining an appropriate level of PD-1 expression is of great significance, it should be highly regulated at multiple levels. Despite extensive studies to date on this topic, it remains unclear how PD-1 expression is precisely regulated at the posttranslation level both during T cell activation and among the tumor microenvironment. Here, we show that KLHL22 maintains PD-1 protein homeostasis by degrading incompletely glycosylated PD-1, thereby preventing excessive T cell suppression. KLHL22-mediated degradation of PD-1 protein will be ineffective in response to either the tumor microenvironment or treatment with 5-FU, resulting in excessive PD-1 accumulation and reduced T cell activity.
Improving rural health care reduces illegal logging and conserves carbon in a tropical forest
Authors: Jones Isabel J. , MacDonald Andrew J. , Hopkins Skylar R. , Lund Andrea J. , Liu Zac Yung-Chun , Fawzi Nurul Ihsan , Purba Mahardika Putra , Fankhauser Katie , Chamberlin Andrew J. , Nirmala Monica , Blundell Arthur G. , Emerson Ashley , Jennings Jonathan , Gaffikin Lynne , Barry Michele , Lopez-Carr David , Webb Kinari , De Leo Giulio A. , Sokolow Susanne H.
Published: October 2020

Significance

Here, we show how a conservation–health care exchange in rural Borneo preserved globally important forest carbon and simultaneously improved human health and well-being, in a region of historically intense environmental destruction, widespread poverty, and unmet health needs. To evaluate this long-term conservation and health intervention, we analyzed earth observation data, clinic health records, and socioeconomic surveys to quantify conservation, health, and sustainable development outcomes simultaneously. Results demonstrate an actionable framework for aligning cross-sectoral goals and objectively quantifying intervention outcomes across both conservation and human health targets.
A genomic and historical synthesis of plague in 18th century Eurasia
Authors: Guellil Meriam , Kersten Oliver , Namouchi Amine , Luciani Stefania , Marota Isolina , Arcini Caroline A. , Iregren Elisabeth , Lindemann Robert A. , Warfvinge Gunnar , Bakanidze Lela , Bitadze Lia , Rubini Mauro , Zaio Paola , Zaio Monica , Neri Damiano , Stenseth N. C. , Bramanti Barbara
Published: October 2020

Significance

The spread and evolution of plague have been under debate in the past few years. However, very little is known of the dynamics of the plague pathogen,Yersinia pestis, during the last phase of the Second Plague Pandemic in Europe (18th and 19th century). We present nine ancientY. pestisgenomes from the Second Plague Pandemic. CHE1 is the first Second Plague Pandemic genome from the Caucasus region, an area that houses plague wildlife reservoirs to this day, making it a key strain to help elucidate the origin of Medieval and Early Modern plague. Our study documents the importance of a noneurocentric approach to historical plague dynamics and proposes an origin of plague introductions outside of Europe.
Soft, skin-interfaced microfluidic systems with integrated immunoassays, fluorometric sensors, and impedance measurement capabilities
Authors: Kim Sungbong , Lee Boram , Reeder Jonathan T. , Seo Seon Hee , Lee Sung-Uk , Hourlier-Fargette Aurélie , Shin Joonchul , Sekine Yurina , Jeong Hyoyoung , Oh Yong Suk , Aranyosi Alexander J. , Lee Stephen P. , Model Jeffrey B. , Lee Geumbee , Seo Min-Ho , Kwak Sung Soo , Jo Seongbin , Park Gyungmin , Han Sunghyun , Park Inkyu , Jung Hyo-Il , Ghaffari Roozbeh , Koo Jahyun , Braun Paul V. , Rogers John A.
Published: October 2020

Significance

Skin-interfaced, wireless devices for clinical-grade monitoring of physiological parameters are of growing interest for uses that range from healthcare to sports performance. This paper introduces a multifunctional skin-mounted microfluidic platform for capture and biomarker analysis of microliter volumes of sweat, a biofluid that can be collected noninvasively, with potential relevance in biophysical sensing. The focus is on colorimetric and digital assessments of a collection of parameters related to stress, including concentrations of vitamin C, cortisol, and glucose, along with quantitative measurements of sweat rate and galvanic skin response. The results represent important additions to a portfolio of emerging capabilities in skin-interfaced technologies for physiological monitoring, with particular relevance to conditions that follow from unhealthy levels of physical and mental stress.