bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partial versus Complete Sternotomy for Aortic Valve Replacement—Multicenter Study
Authors: Goebel Nora , Stankowski Tomasz , Pollari Francesco , Hassan Kambiz , Jueckstock Helena , Schubel Jens , Sellin Christian , Zielezinski Thorsten , Elhmidi Yacine , Sack Falk-Udo , Feyrer Richard , Doerge Hilmar , Hausmann Harald , Massoudy Parwis , Schmoeckel Michael , Hakmi Samer , Fischlein Theodor , Fritzsche Dirk , Franke Ulrich F. W.
Published: April 2024

Background The benefits of minimally invasive techniques in cardiac surgery remain poorly defined. We evaluated the short- and mid-term outcomes after surgical aortic valve replacement through partial upper versus complete median sternotomy (MS) in a large, German multicenter cohort.

Methods A total of 2,929 patients underwent isolated surgical aortic valve replacement via partial upper sternotomy (PUS, n = 1,764) or MS (n = 1,165) at nine participating heart centers between 2016 and 2020. After propensity-score matching, 1,990 patients were eligible for analysis. The primary end point was major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), a composite of death, myocardial infarction, and stroke at 30 days and in follow-up, up to 5 years. Secondary end points were acute kidney injury, length of hospital stay, transfusions, deep sternal wound infection, Dressler's syndrome, rehospitalization, and conversion to sternotomy.

Results Unadjusted MACCE rates were significantly lower in the PUS group both at 30 days (p = 0.02) and in 5-year follow-up (p = 0.01). However, after propensity-score matching, differences between the groups were no more statistically significant: MACCE rates were 3.9% (PUS) versus 5.4% (MS, p = 0.14) at 30 days, and 9.9 versus 11.3% in 5-year follow-up (p = 0.36). In the minimally invasive group, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay was shorter (p = 0.03), Dressler's syndrome occurred less frequently (p = 0.006), and the rate of rehospitalization was reduced significantly (p < 0.001). There were 3.8% conversions to full sternotomy.

Conclusion In a large, German multicenter cohort, MACCE rates were comparable in surgical aortic valve replacement through partial upper and complete sternotomies. Shorter ICU stay and lower rates of Dressler's syndrome and rehospitalization were in favor of the partial sternotomy group.
A First Estimate of the Prevalence of Developmental Language Disorder in Mexico: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Auza B Alejandra , Kapantzoglou Maria , Murata Chiharu , Méndez-Gómez Humarán Ignacio
Published: April 2024

This was a retrospective study that aimed to provide a first estimate of the prevalence of developmental language disorder (DLD) in Mexico, where there is currently a lack of epidemiological data on this disorder. Children aged 4;0 to 6;11 years in the cities of Mexico, Queretaro, and Monterrey were classified into two groups: those with DLD (N = 46) and those with typical language development (N = 497). The diagnosis of DLD was based on standardized norm-referenced assessment and language sample analyses. Children with other disabilities were excluded from the final sample. The final sample consisted of 543 children (55% male; 45% female) aged 4;0 to 6;11 years. The estimated prevalence of DLD was 8.5%. The study has clinical implications given that the prevalence of DLD in Mexico may raise awareness of this long-lasting disorder and may help health and educational authorities establish a system to early identify and diagnose children with DLD.
Linear response of molecular polaritons
Authors: Yuen-Zhou Joel , Koner Arghadip
Published: April 2024

In this article, we show that the collective light–matter strong coupling regime where N molecular emitters couple to the photon mode of an optical cavity can be mapped to a quantum impurity model where the photon is the impurity that is coupled to a bath of anharmonic transitions. In the thermodynamic limit where N ≫ 1, we argue that the bath can be replaced with an effective harmonic bath, leading to a dramatic simplification of the problem into one of the coupled harmonic oscillators. We derive simple analytical expressions for linear optical spectra (transmission, reflection, and absorption) where the only molecular input required is the molecular linear susceptibility. This formalism is applied to a series of illustrative examples, showing the role of temperature, disorder, vibronic coupling, and optical saturation of the molecular ensemble, explaining that it is useful even when describing an important class of nonlinear optical experiments. For completeness, we provide Appendixes A–C that include a self-contained derivation of the relevant spectroscopic observables for arbitrary anharmonic systems (for both large and small N) within the rotating-wave approximation. While some of the presented results herein have already been reported in the literature, we provide a unified presentation of the results as well as new interpretations that connect powerful concepts in open quantum systems and linear response theory with molecular polaritonics.
Molecular dynamics simulation of shock waves in Fe and Fe–C: Influence of system characteristics
Authors: Thürmer Daniel , Luu Hoang-Thien , Merkert Nina
Published: April 2024

Pressure-induced phase transformation in iron and its alloys is a classic research topic in solid-state physics, material science, and geophysics. The crystal structure of iron undergoes a phase transformation at a hydrostatic pressure of 13 GPa, changing from a body-centered cubic system to a hexagonal close-packed system. Although extensive research has been carried out on the transformation in iron by using molecular dynamics simulations, there is very limited literature that focuses on the contribution of parent phase orientations, system size, and impurities to the phase evolution. In this work, classic molecular dynamics simulations have been employed to investigate the effects of system size, lattice orientation, and impurity concentration on the pressure-induced phase transformation of iron and iron alloys for the first time. Our results show that the lattice orientation has a strong influence on the phase transition behavior, while the influence of carbon is small. The phase transition is slightly delayed with increasing carbon content, whereas the transition pressure increases from [001] to [011] to [111] orientation. The amount of twinning and stacking faults highly depends on the orientation. It is easiest for solitary waves to travel through [111] lattice orientation. The addition of carbon has a slow-down effect on shock velocities, and this effect increases with carbon content and lattice orientation of the samples from [001] to [011] to [111].
Simulation study of secondary electron multiplication on microwave dielectric window
Authors: Wang Dong , Wang Lian , Lv Wenmei , Mao Pengxin , Lu Yiwei , Qiu Song , Tang Yongliang
Published: April 2024

The phenomenon of dielectric breakdown in microwave windows restricts the enhancement of power capacity in high-power microwave systems. This process starts with the secondary electron multiplication, which significantly influences the breakdown threshold. In this study, we developed 3D simulation models for rectangular, circular, and annular windows to examine the secondary electron multiplication on their surfaces using the particle-in-cell method. Through a comparative study, we assessed the effects of various input powers, initial emission current densities from particle sources, and magnetic fields. Our findings reveal that the initial field emission current density, which ranges from 10−9 to 109 μA/cm2, marginally affects electron multiplication. However, increased microwave power (with power density ranging from 0.1 to 18.75 MW/cm2) accelerates this multiplication. Strong magnetic fields and non-uniform electric fields further enhance the electron multiplication process.
Multiscale modeling of CO2 capture in dicationic ionic liquids: Evaluating the influence of hydroxyl groups using DFT-IR, COSMO-RS, and MD simulation methods
Authors: Torkzadeh Mehrangiz , Moosavi Majid
Published: April 2024

This work employs a combination of density functional theory-infrared (IR), conductor-like screening model for real solvents (COSMO-RS), and molecular dynamic (MD) methods to investigate the impact of hydroxyl functional groups on CO2 capture within dicationic ionic liquids (DILs). The COSMO-RS reveals that hydroxyl groups in DILs reduce the macroscopic solubility of CO2 but improve the selectivity of CO2 over CO, H2, and CH4 gases. Quantum methods in the gas phase and MD simulations in the liquid phase were conducted to delve deeper into the underlying mechanisms. The IR spectrum analysis confirms red shifts in CO2’s asymmetric stretching mode and blue shifts in the CR–HR bond of the dication, indicating CO2–DIL interactions and the weakening of the anion–cation interactions caused by the presence of CO2. The results show that the positioning of anions around hydroxyl groups and HR atoms in rings inhibits the proximity of CO2 molecules, causing the hydrogen atoms within methylene groups to accumulate CO2. van der Waals forces were found to dominate the interaction between ions and CO2. The addition of hydroxyl groups strengthens the electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonds between dications and anions. The stronger interaction energy between ions in [C5(mim)2-(C2)2(OH)2][NTf2]2 limits the displacement of CO2 molecules within this DIL compared to [C5(mim)2-(C4)2][NTf2]2. Compared to [C5(mim)2-(C4)2][NTf2]2, [C5(mim)2-(C2)2(OH)2][NTf2]2 exhibits stronger ion–ion interactions, higher density, and reduced free volume, resulting in a reduction in CO2 capture. These results provide significant insights into the intermolecular interactions and vibrational properties of CO2 in DIL complexes, emphasizing their significance in developing efficient and sustainable strategies for CO2 capture.
Range and sensitivity of 17O nuclear spin-lattice relaxation as a probe of aqueous electrolyte dynamics
Authors: Zhang Chengtong , Jerschow Alexej
Published: April 2024

The study of electrolytic solutions is of relevance in many research fields, ranging from biophysics, materials, and colloid science to catalysis and electrochemistry. The dependence of solution dynamics on the nature of electrolytes and their concentrations has been the subject of many experimental and computational studies, yet it remains challenging to obtain a full understanding of the factors that govern solution behavior. Here, we provide additional insights into the behavior of aqueous solutions of alkali chlorides by combining 17O relaxation data with diffusion and viscosity data and contrast their behavior with 1H nuclear magnetic resonance relaxation data. The main findings are that 17O relaxation correlates well with viscosity data but not with diffusion data, while 1H relaxation correlates with neither. Certain ionic trends match known ion-specific series behavior, especially at high concentrations. Notably, we also examine the ranges of the interactions and conclude that the majority of the effects are tied to local water reorientation dynamics.
Experimental study of rotational relaxation for D2(1,12) in collisions with N2
Authors: Mao Lin , Liu Jing , Habibulla Nurali , Qiu Yongbao
Published: April 2024

The rotational relaxation behavior of D2(1,12) in a D2–N2 mixture was investigated using coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) technique. The rovibrational level v = 1 and J = 12 of D2 was selectively excited through stimulated Raman pumping while monitoring the temporal evolution of population for D2(1, J ≤ 12) molecules using time-resolved CARS spectroscopy. The results demonstrate that the rotational relaxation processes of D2(1,12) encompass both multi-quantum relaxation and continuous single-quantum relaxation. When α, the molar ratio of N2, is less than 0.5, D2(1,12) predominantly undergoes a single quantum relaxation process transition. However, when α ≥ 0.5, the multi-quantum relaxation mechanism gradually predominates. The total rotational relaxation rate coefficients of D2(1,12) collisions with N2 and D2 at 295 K were determined to be 3.974 × 10−14 and 1.179 × 10−14 cm3 s−1, respectively. The temperature dependence of rotational relaxation rate of D2(1,12) was investigated within the temperature range of 295–453 K. With increasing temperature, the dominant relaxation process exhibited an accelerated behavior, while the minor relaxation process remained largely unaffected. The rotational temperature of the D2 molecule at various N2 molar ratios was determined through the utilization of Boltzmann plots. The rotational temperature undergoes a rapid decline within 2 μs, corresponding to the near-resonant rotation–vibration relaxation process of D2(1,12) collisions with N2. The system reaches a quasi-equilibrium state when the delay time is 3 μs. The findings of this study can serve as a valuable empirical basis for further validation of the kinetic theory and simulation.
Accurate diabatization based on combined-hyperbolic-inverse-power-representation: 1,2 2A′ states of BeH2+
Authors: Guan Yafu , Chen Qun , Varandas António J. C.
Published: April 2024

A diabatic potential energy matrix (DPEM) for the two lowest states of BeH2+ has been constructed using the combined-hyperbolic-inverse-power-representation (CHIPR) method. By imposing symmetry constraints on the coefficients of polynomials, the complete nuclear permutation inversion symmetry is correctly preserved in the CHIPR functional form. The symmetrized CHIPR functional form is then used in the diabatization by ansatz procedure. The ab initio energies are reproduced with satisfactory accuracy. In addition, the CHIPR-based DPEM also reproduces the local topology of a conical intersection. Future work will focus on a complete four-state diabatic representation with emphasis on the long-range interactions and spin–orbit couplings, which will enable accurate quantum scattering calculations for the Be+(2P) + H2 → BeH+(X1Σ+) + H(2S) reaction.
Liquid lasing from solutions of ligand-engineered semiconductor nanocrystals
Authors: Tan Max J. H. , Patel Shreya K. , Chiu Jessica , Zheng Zhaoyun Tiffany , Odom Teri W.
Published: April 2024

Semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) can function as efficient gain materials with chemical versatility because of their surface ligands. Because the properties of NCs in solution are sensitive to ligand–environment interactions, local chemical changes can result in changes in the optical response. However, amplification of the optical response is technically challenging because of colloidal instability at NC concentrations needed for sufficient gain to overcome losses. This paper demonstrates liquid lasing from plasmonic lattice cavities integrated with ligand-engineered CdZnS/ZnS NCs dispersed in toluene and water. By taking advantage of calcium ion-induced aggregation of NCs in aqueous solutions, we show how lasing threshold can be used as a transduction signal for ion detection. Our work highlights how NC solutions and plasmonic lattices with open cavity architectures can serve as a biosensing platform for lab-on-chip devices.
On the lattice ground state of densely packed hard ellipses
Authors: Wagner S. , Kahl G. , Melnyk R. , Baumketner A.
Published: April 2024

Among lattice configurations of densely packed hard ellipses, Monte Carlo simulations are used to identify the so-called parallel and diagonal lattices as the two favorable states. The free energies of these two states are computed for several system sizes employing the Einstein crystal method. An accurate calculation of the free energy difference between the two states reveals the parallel lattice as the state with the lowest free energy. The origin of the entropic difference between the two states is further elucidated by assessing the roles of the translational and rotational degrees of freedom.
Stability of inkjet printed lines at elevated substrate temperature
Authors: Zhang Mengsen , Zhu Jianqin , Tao Zhi , Qiu Lu
Published: April 2024

Precise manipulation of line morphologies is crucial for optimizing the performance of inkjet printing. Among various techniques, the utilization of heated substrates as an active control approach stands out due to its good controllability and precision. Thus, this study experimentally investigated the characteristics of inkjet-printed lines with high-temperature substrate, employing high-concentration indium tin oxide nano-ink. The phase diagrams of line patterns were plotted in the space of dimensionless droplet spacing and printing velocity. The transition boundaries between different line modes were obtained in the cases of different substrate temperatures. Two theoretical models have been developed. First, a new printing stability model was developed, which works well for high-temperature substrates. Second, for the newly observed overlapping deposition line pattern on higher temperature substrates, a theoretical model was developed to predict the pattern transition boundaries based on the timescale of droplet interval and evaporation time of each droplet. The findings could be useful for the inkjet printing optimization by means of substrate heating techniques.
Structure and dynamics of a pentameric KCTD5/CUL3/Gβγ E3 ubiquitin ligase complex
Authors: Nguyen Duc Minh , Rath Deanna H. , Devost Dominic , Pétrin Darlaine , Rizk Robert , Ji Alan X. , Narayanan Naveen , Yong Darren , Zhai Andrew , Kuntz Douglas A. , Mian Maha U. Q. , Pomroy Neil C. , Keszei Alexander F. A. , Benlekbir Samir , Mazhab-Jafari Mohammad T. , Rubinstein John L. , Hébert Terence E. , Privé Gilbert G.
Published: April 2024

Heterotrimeric G proteins can be regulated by posttranslational modifications, including ubiquitylation. KCTD5, a pentameric substrate receptor protein consisting of an N-terminal BTB domain and a C-terminal domain, engages CUL3 to form the central scaffold of a cullin-RING E3 ligase complex (CRL3
KCTD5
) that ubiquitylates Gβγ and reduces Gβγ protein levels in cells. The cryo-EM structure of a 5:5:5 KCTD5/CUL3
NTD
/Gβ
1
γ
2
assembly reveals a highly dynamic complex with rotations of over 60° between the KCTD5
BTB
/CUL3
NTD
and KCTD5
CTD
/Gβγ moieties of the structure. CRL3
KCTD5
engages the E3 ligase ARIH1 to ubiquitylate Gβγ in an E3-E3 superassembly, and extension of the structure to include full-length CUL3 with RBX1 and an ARIH1~ubiquitin conjugate reveals that some conformational states position the ARIH1~ubiquitin thioester bond to within 10 Å of lysine-23 of Gβ and likely represent priming complexes. Most previously described CRL/substrate structures have consisted of monovalent complexes and have involved flexible peptide substrates. The structure of the KCTD5/CUL3
NTD
/Gβγ complex shows that the oligomerization of a substrate receptor can generate a polyvalent E3 ligase complex and that the internal dynamics of the substrate receptor can position a structured target for ubiquitylation in a CRL3 complex.
Integrated mutational landscape analysis of poorly differentiated high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma of the uterine cervix
Authors: Bellone Stefania , Jeong Kyungjo , Halle Mari Kyllesø , Krakstad Camilla , McNamara Blair , Greenman Michelle , Mutlu Levent , Demirkiran Cem , Hartwich Tobias Max Philipp , Yang-Hartwich Yang , Zipponi Margherita , Buza Natalia , Hui Pei , Raspagliesi Francesco , Lopez Salvatore , Paolini Biagio , Milione Massimo , Perrone Emanuele , Scambia Giovanni , Altwerger Gary , Ravaggi Antonella , Bignotti Eliana , Huang Gloria S. , Andikyan Vaagn , Clark Mitchell , Ratner Elena , Azodi Masoud , Schwartz Peter E. , Quick Charles M. , Angioli Roberto , Terranova Corrado , Zaidi Samir , Nandi Shuvro , Alexandrov Ludmil B. , Siegel Eric R. , Choi Jungmin , Schlessinger Joseph , Santin Alessandro D.
Published: April 2024

High-grade neuroendocrine cervical cancers (NETc) are exceedingly rare, highly aggressive tumors. We analyzed 64 NETc tumor samples by whole-exome sequencing (WES). Human papillomavirus DNA was detected in 65.6% (42/64) of the tumors. Recurrent mutations were identified in
PIK3CA, KMT2D/MLL2, K-RAS, ARID1A, NOTCH2,
and
RPL10.
The top mutated genes included
RB1, ARID1A, PTEN, KMT2D
/
MLL2,
and
WDFY3,
a gene not yet implicated in NETc. Somatic CNV analysis identified two copy number gains (3q27.1 and 19q13.12) and five copy number losses (1p36.21/5q31.3/6p22.2/9q21.11/11p15.5). Also, gene fusions affecting the
ACLY-CRHR1
and
PVT1-MYC
genes were identified in one of the eight samples subjected to RNA sequencing. To resolve evolutionary history, multiregion WES in NETc admixed with adenocarcinoma cells was performed (i.e., mixed-NETc). Phylogenetic analysis of mixed-NETc demonstrated that adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine elements derive from a common precursor with mutations typical of adenocarcinomas. Over one-third (22/64) of NETc demonstrated a mutator phenotype of C > T at CpG consistent with deficiencies in
MBD4
, a member of the base excision repair (BER) pathway. Mutations in the PI3K/AMPK pathways were identified in 49/64 samples. We used two patient-derived-xenografts (PDX) (i.e., NET19 and NET21) to evaluate the activity of pan-HER (afatinib), PIK3CA (copanlisib), and ATR (elimusertib) inhibitors, alone and in combination. PDXs harboring alterations in the ERBB2/PI3K/AKT/mTOR/ATR pathway were sensitive to afatinib, copanlisib, and elimusertib (
P
< 0.001 vs. controls). However, combinations of copanlisib/afatinib and copanlisib/elimusertib were significantly more effective in controlling NETc tumor growth. These findings define the genetic landscape of NETc and suggest that a large subset of these highly lethal malignancies might benefit from existing targeted therapies.
La generación ÓSEA
Authors: Guirado Krístel
Published: April 2024

Abstracta

La etiqueta generación “osea” censura el abuso de la partícula en el habla juvenil e identifica
algunos estilos urbanos: pijos, fresas, sifrinos. En esta investigación, se
estudian los usos modales e interactivos del marcador en una microdiacronía (1977–2006), para confirmar su expansión en el habla
de jóvenes universitarios en Caracas. Además, se estudia posicional y prosódicamente el idiolecto con mayor número de casos. Los
resultados revelan un auge de los usos modales en la década de 1970 y el mantenimiento de las instrucciones apelativas y
epistémicas en el s. XXI. Finalmente, la pronunciación afectada de o sea opera como un índice de jerga de
grupo generacional en el habla de Caracas.
Magnetoelectric effect in a Metglas–langatate ring heterostructure for current sensing
Authors: Fetisov Y K , Chashin D V , Fedulov F A
Published: April 2024

The magnetoelectric (ME) effect was observed and investigated in a planar ring-type heterostructure containing mechanically coupled rings of magnetostrictive amorphous alloy Metglas and a piezoelectric single crystal langatate. The structure was excited by a circumferential ac magnetic field in the presence of a circumferential dc bias magnetic field. Due to the absence of demagnetization and the high acoustic quality factor of the langatate, a high ME field conversion coefficient of α
E ≈ 53 V (Oe cm)−1 was obtained at the frequency 221 kHz of the fundamental radial acoustic resonance mode. The structure can be used as a non-contact ac or dc current sensor. The sensitivity of the structure to the ac current was 1.6 V A−1, whereas for the dc current it reached 4.2 V A−1.
Magnetic enhancement of the electrical asymmetry effect in capacitively coupled plasmas
Authors: Doyle Scott J , Boswell Rod W , Charles Christine , Dedrick James P
Published: April 2024

The development of real-time control strategies for key discharge parameters, such as densities, fluxes, and energy distributions, is of fundamental interest to many plasma sources. Over the last decade, multi-harmonic ‘tailored’ voltage waveforms have been successfully employed to achieve enhanced control of key parameters in a wide range of radio-frequency (RF) plasma sources through application of the electrical asymmetry effect (EAE). More recently, the analogous magnetic asymmetry effect (MAE) has been numerically and experimentally demonstrated to achieve a notable degree of control in parallel plate RF plasma sources. The MAE is achieved via selectively magnetising the charged species adjacent to one electrode, altering the charge flux to the surface and enforcing a DC self-bias to maintain quasineutrality. This study addresses the degree of control achieved by the MAE in a non-planar geometry via 2D fluid/kinetic simulations of a magnetised RF capacitively coupled plasma source employing two different magnetic topologies. The simultaneous application of the EAE and MAE is then presented for the same geometry, demonstrating a degree of non-linear behaviour dependant upon the applied magnetic topology. Control of the DC self-bias voltage

η

dc

is demonstrated for a single

600
 

V

pp

, 13.56 MHz discharge in both ‘convergent’ (maximum on-axis field strength) and ‘divergent’ (minimum on-axis field strength) magnetic topolgies. MAE induced modulations of

η

dc

 
=
 
0.13
 

V

pp

and

η

dc

 
=
 
0.03
 

V

pp

are achieved for each magnetic topology, respectively, for magnetic field strengths between 50 and 1000 G. Simultaneous application of an EAE and MAE is achieved through a multi-harmonic ‘peak’-type tailored voltage waveform employing varying harmonic phase offsets between

0

∘

 
⩽
 
θ
 
⩽
 

360

∘

. The degree to which the DC self-bias voltage is modulated by the applied EAE is mediated by the orientation and magnitude of the applied magnetic field. The EAE induced DC self-bias modulations exhibit non-linear behaviour in response to a superimposed MAE, such that the resulting DC self-bias differs from an additive combination of the two effects alone Simultaneous application of the electrical and MAEs offers the possibility of further decoupling ion and electron dynamics in RF plasma sources, and represents an improvement over each approach in isolation.
Influence of electrical field on the susceptibility of gallium nitride transistors to proton irradiation
Authors: Rasel Md Abu Jafar , Schoell Ryan , Smyth Christopher M , Hattar Khalid , Harris C Thomas , Lu Tzu-Ming , Haque Aman , Wolfe Douglas E , Ren Fan , Pearton Stephen J
Published: April 2024

Radiation susceptibility of electronic devices is commonly studied as a function of radiation energetics and device physics. Often overlooked is the presence or magnitude of the electrical field, which we hypothesize to play an influential role in low energy radiation. Accordingly, we present a comprehensive study of low-energy proton irradiation on gallium nitride high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs), turning the transistor ON or OFF during irradiation. Commercially available GaN HEMTs were exposed to 300 keV proton irradiation at fluences varying from 3.76 × 1012 to 3.76 × 1014 cm2, and the electrical performance was evaluated in terms of forward saturation current, transconductance, and threshold voltage. The results demonstrate that the presence of an electrical field makes it more susceptible to proton irradiation. The decrease of 12.4% in forward saturation and 19% in transconductance at the lowest fluence in ON mode suggests that both carrier density and mobility are reduced after irradiation. Additionally, a positive shift in threshold voltage (0.32 V and 0.09 V in ON and OFF mode, respectively) indicates the generation of acceptor-like traps due to proton bombardment. high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy analysis reveal significant defects introduction and atom intermixing near AlGaN/GaN interfaces and within the GaN layer after the highest irradiation dose employed in this study. According to in-situ Raman spectroscopy, defects caused by irradiation can lead to a rise in self-heating and a considerable increase in (∼750 times) thermoelastic stress in the GaN layer during device operation. The findings indicate device engineering or electrical biasing protocol must be employed to compensate for radiation-induced defects formed during proton irradiation to improve device durability and reliability.
Two-dimensional Si2C material exhibits efficient conductive properties and outstanding capacitance characteristics in Li/Na/K-ion batteries
Authors: He Qirui , Shen Yanqing , Zhou Min , Meng Xianghui , Jiang Xiangqian , Pang Long , E Peng , Zhou Zhongxiang
Published: April 2024

To improve the performance of energy storage devices, research into anode materials is essential. This study explores the potential of two-dimensional (2D) materials, particularly silicon carbide (Si2C), to enhance the efficacy of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), and potassium-ion batteries (KIBs). Our first-principles calculations indicate that Si2C achieves storage capacities of 174.7 mAh g−1 for LIBs, 436.8 mAh g−1 for SIBs, and 349.4 mAh g−1 for KIBs. The exceptional performance of Si2C comes from its high conductivity, large surface area, high capacitance, synergistic atomic radius and electronegativity effects. Furthermore, this study delves into the diffusion kinetics of Li/Na/K-ions in Si2C, revealing extremely low energy barriers and uncovering the fundamental principles behind its superior electrochemical performance. This research emphasizes Si2C’s potential in energy storage, highlighting its capacity and diffusion advantages for Li/Na/K-ion batteries.
Transformer bridge-based metrological unit for scanning thermal microscopy with resistive nanoprobes
Authors: Pruchnik Bartosz , Smagowski Piotr , Badura Dominik , Piasecki Tomasz , Połacik Wiktor , Putek Piotr , Gotszalk Teodor
Published: April 2024

Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) is a broad family of diagnostic methods. Common restraint of SPM is only surficial interaction with specimen, especially troublesome in case of complex volumetric systems, e.g. microbial or microelectronic. Scanning thermal microscopy (SThM) overcomes that constraint, since thermal information is collected from broader space. We present transformer bridge-based setup for resistive nanoprobe-based microscopy. With low-frequency (LF) (approx. 1 kHz) detection signal bridge resolution becomes independent on parasitic capacitances present in the measurement setup. We present characterisation of the setup and metrological description—with resolution of the system 0.6 mK with sensitivity as low as 5 mV K−1. Transformer bridge setup brings galvanic separation, enabling measurements in various environments, pursued for purposes of molecular biology. We present results SThM measurement results of high-thermal contrast sample of carbon fibres in an epoxy resin. Finally, we analyse influence of thermal imaging on topography imaging in terms of information channel capacity. We state that transformer bridge-based SThM system is a fully functional design along with low driving frequencies and resistive thermal nanoprobes by Kelvin Nanotechnology.
Effect of local and global screening current on the current decay in closed-loop HTS coils
Authors: Zhou Pengbo , Zhang Shuai , Wang Ruichen , Li Songlin , Grilli Francesco , Ma Guangtong
Published: April 2024

High-temperature superconducting (HTS) coils are generally operated in a closed-loop persistent current mode, which is crucial for ensuring long-term stability and minimizing heat generation in various applications. However, factors such as joint resistance, flux creep, and losses due to external fields can lead to accelerated decay of the coil’s current, making it challenging to achieve an effective persistent current mode. To gain insight into the current decay characteristics of HTS coils, we built a finite element method based model coupled with a lumped parameter electric circuit model. The model is initially verified against the experiment of an inductive magnetized HTS coil subject to a magnetic field perpendicular to the tape surface. The results indicate that the proposed model is highly effective in predicting the current decay behavior of this magnetized HTS coil and is able to provide high accuracy. With the help of this model, we have experimentally and numerically studied the behavior of a current-carrying closed-loop HTS coil subject to external alternating fields. The HTS coil is charged by a DC power supply and then shorted using a thermally-controlled persistent current switch. The current decay behavior of the HTS coil is examined under various scenarios. The simulation results show excellent agreement with experimental data, further validating the effectiveness and versatility of the modeling strategy. The influence of both local and global screening currents on the current decay performance of the closed-loop HTS coils has been investigated. For every case examined, rapid demagnetization occurred in the initial cycle of the applied alternating field. Furthermore, the current decay rate demonstrated a slight dependence on the frequency of the applied fields. Additionally, the resulting resistance has been thoroughly characterized. These insights contribute to the knowledge of the behavior and performance of closed-loop HTS coils, facilitating their practical application.
Investigation of quasi-particle relaxation in strongly disordered superconductor resonators
Authors: Hu Jie , Matin Jean-Marc , Nicaise Paul , Boussaha Faouzi , Chaumont Christine , Piat Michel , Pham Viet Dung , Bonifacio Piercarlo
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we investigate the quasi-particle (QP) relaxation of strongly disordered superconducting resonators under optical illumination at different bath temperatures with the Rothwarf and Taylor equations and the gap-broadening theory described by the Usadal equation. The analysis is validated with various single-photon responses of titanium nitride (TiN) microwave kinetic inductance detectors under pulsed 405 nm laser illumination. The QP relaxation in TiN is dominated by QPs with energy below the energy gap smeared by the disorder, and its duration is still inversely proportional to the QP density. The QP lifetime versus temperature can be fitted. The relaxation of the resonator can be further modeled with QP diffusion. The fitted QP diffusion coefficient of TiN is significantly smaller than expected. Our result also shows a significant increase in QP generation efficiency as the bath temperature increases.
Near-term distributed quantum computation using mean-field corrections and auxiliary qubits
Authors: McClain Gomez Abigail , Patti Taylor L , Anandkumar Anima , Yelin Susanne F
Published: April 2024

Distributed quantum computation is often proposed to increase the scalability of quantum hardware, as it reduces cooperative noise and requisite connectivity by sharing quantum information between distant quantum devices. However, such exchange of quantum information itself poses unique engineering challenges, requiring high gate fidelity and costly non-local operations. To mitigate this, we propose near-term distributed quantum computing, focusing on approximate approaches that involve limited information transfer and conservative entanglement production. We first devise an approximate distributed computing scheme for the time evolution of quantum systems split across any combination of classical and quantum devices. Our procedure harnesses mean-field corrections and auxiliary qubits to link two or more devices classically, optimally encoding the auxiliary qubits to both minimize short-time evolution error and extend the approximate scheme’s performance to longer evolution times. We then expand the scheme to include limited quantum information transfer through selective qubit shuffling or teleportation, broadening our method’s applicability and boosting its performance. Finally, we build upon these concepts to produce an approximate circuit-cutting technique for the fragmented pre-training of variational quantum algorithms. To characterize our technique, we introduce a non-linear perturbation theory that discerns the critical role of our mean-field corrections in optimization and may be suitable for analyzing other non-linear quantum techniques. This fragmented pre-training is remarkably successful, reducing algorithmic error by orders of magnitude while requiring fewer iterations.
Topologically protected subradiant cavity polaritons through linewidth narrowing enabled by dissipationless edge states
Authors: Lu Yu-Wei , Liu Jing-Feng , Jiang Haoxiang , Liao Zeyang
Published: April 2024

Cavity polaritons derived from strong light–matter interaction provide a basis for efficient manipulation of quantum states via cavity field. Polaritons with narrow linewidth and long lifetime are appealing in applications, such as quantum sensing and storage. Here, we propose a prototypical arrangement to implement a whispering-gallery-mode resonator with one-dimensional topological atom mirror, which allows to boost the lifetime of cavity polaritons over an order of magnitude. This considerable enhancement attributes to the coupling of polaritonic states to dissipationless edge states protected by the topological bandgap of atom mirror that suppresses the leakage of cavity modes. When exceeding the width of Rabi splitting, topological bandgap can further reduce the dissipation from polaritonic states to bulk states, giving arise to subradiant cavity polaritons with extremely sharp linewidth. The resultant Rabi oscillation experiences decay rate lower than the free-space decay of a single quantum emitter. Inheriting from the topologically protected properties of edge states, the subradiance of cavity polaritons can be preserved in disordered atom mirror with moderate perturbations involving the atomic frequency, interaction strengths and location fluctuations. Our work opens up a new paradigm of topology-engineered quantum states with robust quantum coherence for future applications in quantum computing and network.
Remote cross-resonance gate between superconducting fixed-frequency qubits
Authors: Ohfuchi Mari , Sato Shintaro
Published: April 2024

High-fidelity quantum state transfer and remote entanglement between superconducting fixed-frequency qubits have not yet been realized. In this study, we propose an alternative remote cross-resonance gate. Considering multiple modes of a superconducting coaxial cable connecting qubits, we must find conditions under which the cross-resonance gate operates with a certain accuracy even in the presence of qubit frequency shifts due to manufacturing errors. For 0.25- and 0.5 m cables, remote cross-resonance gates with a concurrence of

>

99.9
%

in entanglement generation are obtained even with ±10 MHz frequency shifts. For a 1 m cable with a narrow mode spacing, a concurrence of 99.5% is achieved by reducing the coupling between the qubits and cable. The optimized echoed raised-cosine pulse duration is 150–400 ns, which is similar to the operation time of cross-resonance gates between neighboring qubits on a chip. The dissipation through the cable modes does not considerably affect the obtained results. Such high-precision quantum interconnects pave the way not only for scaling up quantum computer systems but also for nonlocal connections on a chip.
Trusting the minister or trusting the mayor? Perceived competence and integrity of central and local Dutch institutions governing energy matters
Authors: Palomo-Vélez Gonzalo , Perlaviciute Goda , Contzen Nadja , Steg Linda
Published: April 2024

Phasing out fossil fuels is inherent to sustainable energy transitions, but implementing energy policies related to phasing out processes involves risks that may affect their public support. Trust in institutions responsible for handling these risks is crucial for public acceptability, as it serves as a heuristic for risk assessment. In the current study, using the Dutch energy scenario, we examine how trust in institutions relates to public support for phasing out natural gas in the Netherlands. We build from previous research by examining this for the two types of trust most commonly distinguished in the literature, namely competence- and integrity-based trust, and for institutions operating at both national and local levels. Results showed that trust depends on the type of trust people evaluate and on the institution’s level of operation. Locally, institutions are seen as more honest and transparent, while nationally, they’re perceived as more skilled and having more knowledge. Further, integrity-based trust in both local and national institutions better explained public support for phasing out natural gas than competence-based trust. We discuss these results in terms of their implications for energy policy, suggesting policymakers consider trust dynamics and tailor strategies based on trust dimensions and institutional levels to facilitate phasing out processes.
Protonic ceramic electrochemical cells in a metal supported architecture: challenges, status and prospects
Authors: Sata Noriko , Costa Rémi
Published: April 2024

Protonic ceramic cells (PCCs) offer variety of potential applications for electrochemical energy conversion, however a lot of challenges remain in the development of PCCs for industrial scale manufacturing processes. As it was successfully demonstrated for the solid oxide cells, metal supported architecture is a good alternative for PCCs with many attractive advantages in terms of stabilities in operation and reduction of raw critical materials. In this review, proposed architectures, component materials and processing options are summarized. The challenges and prospects are discussed.
Evaluating the effect of paper waste lignin in hot mix asphalt
Authors: Khadim Adnan , Ahmad Naveed
Published: April 2024

Asphalt is a viscoelastic material which performs to resist rutting, fatigue cracking, and moisture susceptibility under different loading and temperature conditions. The use of innovative and renewable pavement construction materials is inevitable due to high axle loads, rapidly increasing traffic volumes, and varying climatic conditions. This study aims to assess the effect as well as the optimum dosage of paper waste lignin for use in hot mix asphalt (HMA). Lignin from the paper industry with dosage ratios of 5, 10, 15, and 20%, was utilized to study the effect of the addition of lignin to the asphalt binder. Virgin and lignin-modified binder samples, before and after the aging process, were subjected to physical testing through penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity and specific gravity and rheological characteristics through dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), bending beam rheometer (BBR), and rational viscometer (RV). The fractional composition was assessed through saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltenes (SARA) fractional composition technique. Statistical analysis was also performed to find correlation of different physical and rheological parameters. Furthermore, based on optimum dosage, the performance of asphalt mixtures was studied against rutting, fatigue cracking, and moisture susceptibility. The results indicated that the addition of lignin has improved the physical properties significantly. The amount of asphaltene decreased and aromatics increased in SARA fractional analysis. Moreover, the Colloidal Instability Index (CII) has also indicated a stable structure of the binder. The rheological characteristics are improved after modification. The asphalt mixture tests revealed that addition of lignin with optimum dosage (10%) has improved the performance against rutting, fatigue cracking and moisture susceptibility. Statistical analysis indicated good co-relation among different physical and rheological parameters. This study concludes that 10% dosage is the optimum dosage that can successfully replace the virgin asphalt binder for performance of hot mix asphalt.
A comparative analysis of non-isolated Bi-directional converters for energy storage applications
Authors: Nagabushanam K Mounika , Tewari Somesh Vinayak , Udumula Ramanjaneya Reddy , Mahto Tarkeshwar
Published: April 2024

Bi-directional DC-DC converters (BDC) are required for power flow regulation between storage devices and DC buses in renewable energy based distributed generation systems. The fundamental requirements of the BDC are simple structure, reduced switching components, a wide range of voltage gain, low voltage stress, high efficiency, and reduced size. There are different BDC topologies for various applications based on their requirements in the literature. Various BDC are categorized according to their impedance networks. Isolated BDC converters are large due to high-frequency transformers and hence used for static energy storage applications whereas non-isolated BDC is lightweight and suitable for dynamic applications like electric vehicles. This paper reviews types of non-isolated BDC topologies. The performance of five non-isolated BDC converters under steady state condition is evaluated by using theoretical analysis. On this basis, suitability of BDC for different applications is discussed. Further advantages and limitations of converters are discussed by using comparative analysis. The optimization of BDC for distributed generation systems from the perspectives of wide voltage gain, low electromagnetic interference, low cost with higher efficiency is identified. Theoretical analysis of the converters is validated by simulating 200W converters in MATLAB Simulink.
Analytical design and simulation studies of a conical energy harvester for enhanced power output
Authors: K T Prajwal , Manickavasagam Krishnan , Malathi S
Published: April 2024

A primary method of energy harvesting from kinetic energy is constructed by levitating a magnet between stationary magnets in Levitation Based Energy Harvesting (LBEH). The levitating magnet movements are captured in the coil which is wound across magnets and the voltage is generated. Vertical movement of levitating magnet is only considered for designing LBEH. In this work, levitation magnet is allowed to move in vertical as well as in angular space with all directions. The two stationary magnets are replaced with one spring fixed at the bottom so that the levitation magnet absorbs vertical and angular movement due to vibration absorbed by the spring. This arrangement is realized with a mathematical model and simulation that results in conical shape of coil. The designed Conical Energy Harvester (CEH) is able to capture the movement of levitation magnet due to vibrations absorbed by the spring in all the directions. The simulation results indicate that the voltage developed by CEH is 1.27 times higher than that of voltage developed by LBEH.