bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Zn precursor concentration in the synthesis of rGO/ZnO composites and their photocatalytic activity
Authors: Merlano Aura S. , Hoyos Lina M. , Gutiérrez Guadalupe J. , Valenzuela Miguel A. , Salazar Ángel
Published: November 2020

This work focuses on the synthesis of composite materials based on reduced graphene oxide reinforced with zinc oxide.
Secondary ligands and the intramolecular hydrogen bonds drive photoluminescence quantum yields from aminopyrazine coordination polymers
Authors: Lemes Maykon Alves , do Nascimento Neto José Antônio , Fernandes Guimarães Freddy , Maia Lauro June Queiroz , de Santana Ricardo Costa , Terra Martins Felipe
Published: November 2020

Here the role of secondary ligands and their hydrogen bonding patterns in determining the photoluminescence quantum yields of aminopyrazine (ampyz) coordination polymers was probed.
Selective C–C coupling of terminal alkynes under an air atmosphere without base over Cu–NX–C catalysts
Authors: Xiao Xinxin , Xu Yin , Bhavanarushi Sangepu , Liu Bin , Lv Xiaomeng
Published: November 2020

Highly dispersed copper nanoparticles supported on mesoporous nitrogenated carbon were synthesized and exhibited superior catalytic activity towards aerobic oxidative coupling of terminal alkynes.
Full-spectrum responsive WO3−x@HA nanotheranostics for NIR-II photoacoustic imaging-guided PTT/PDT/CDT synergistic therapy
Authors: Ding Yanwen , Huang Rongtao , Luo Liuruiqi , Guo Wenwei , Zhu Chengyuan , Shen Xing-Can
Published: November 2020

A WO3−x-based nanotheranostic has been successfully fabricated for photoacoustic imaging-guided synergistic tumor targeting therapy in the second near-infrared (NIR-II) biological window.
Cyano-containing tetraphenylethene isomers: similar bright mechanoluminescence, but diverse recoverable processes
Authors: Jiang Yuqing , Chang Xiaoyong , Xie Weiwei , Huang Guangxi , Li Bing Shi
Published: November 2020

Cyano-substituted tetraphenylethene derivatives demonstrated cyclic utilization of bright mechanoluminescence, an irreversible structural transition between polymorphs and thermochromism.
Polymers with advanced architectures as emulsifiers for multi-functional emulsions
Authors: Hu Mingqiu , Russell Thomas P
Published: November 2020

The architecture of polymer chains can play a significant role in their behavior at interfaces.
Research and progress of black metastable phase CsPbI3solar cells
Authors: Yao Huanhuan , Zhao Jing , Li Zhizai , Ci Zhipeng , Jin Zhiwen
Published: November 2020

This review discusses the latest progress in improving the performance and stability of CsPbI3PSCs based on the metastable phase.
Study of near-infrared light-induced excitation of upconversion nanoparticles as a vector for non-viral DNA delivery
Authors: Wang Jen-Hsuan , Chen Hsin-Yu , Chuang Ching-Cheng , Chen Jung-Chih
Published: November 2020

Clinical requirements have necessitated the development of biomedical nanomaterials that can be implanted into tissues or bodies.
Biodiesel production from rapeseed oil and low free fatty acid waste cooking oil using a cesium modified natural phosphate catalyst
Authors: Rezki Boutaina , Essamlali Younes , Aadil Mina , Semlal Nawal , Zahouily Mohamed
Published: November 2020

Cesium modified natural phosphate was investigated as a catalyst in biodiesel production from rapeseed oil and low free fatty acids used in cooking oil.
The synthesis of N,N′-disulfanediyl-bis(N′-((E)-benzylidene)acetohydrazide) from (E)-N′-benzylideneacetohydrazide and S8
Authors: Liu Hong-Yan , Chen Yu , Hao Li-Qiang , Wang Guo-Dong , Li Hong-Shuang , Xia Cheng-Cai
Published: November 2020

Herein we report an oxidative coupling reaction for N–S/S–S bond formation substituted N,N′-disulfanediyl bis(N′-((E)-benzylidene)acetohydrazide). It provides a direct approach for the synthesis of disulfides with good yields.
Conjugated polyelectrolytes as promising hole transport materials for inverted perovskite solar cells: effect of ionic groups
Authors: Liu Pang-Hsiao , Chuang Ching-Hsiang , Zhou Yi-Ling , Wang Shih-Hao , Jeng Ru-Jong , Rwei Syang-Peng , Liau Wen-Bin , Wang Leeyih
Published: November 2020

Conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) have developed as promising hole transport materials for perovskite solar cells (PSCs).
Methylation of two-component response regulator MtrA in mycobacteria negatively modulates its DNA binding and transcriptional activation
Authors: Singhal Anshika , Virmani Richa , Naz Saba , Arora Gunjan , Gaur Mohita , Kundu Parijat , Sajid Andaleeb , Misra Richa , Dabla Ankita , Kumar Suresh , Nellissery Jacob , Molle Virginie , Gerth Ulf , Swaroop Anand , Sharma Kirti , Nandicoori Vinay K. , Singh Yogendra
Published: November 2020

Post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, nitrosylation, and pupylation modulate multiple cellular processes in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While protein methylation at lysine and arginine residues is widespread in eukaryotes, to date only two methylated proteins in Mtb have been identified. Here, we report the identification of methylation at lysine and/or arginine residues in nine mycobacterial proteins. Among the proteins identified, we chose MtrA, an essential response regulator of a two-component signaling system, which gets methylated on multiple lysine and arginine residues to examine the functional consequences of methylation. While methylation of K207 confers a marginal decrease in the DNA-binding ability of MtrA, methylation of R122 or K204 significantly reduces the interaction with the DNA. Overexpression of S-adenosyl homocysteine hydrolase (SahH), an enzyme that modulates the levels of S-adenosyl methionine in mycobacteria decreases the extent of MtrA methylation. Most importantly, we show that decreased MtrA methylation results in transcriptional activation of mtrA and sahH promoters. Collectively, we identify novel methylated proteins, expand the list of modifications in mycobacteria by adding arginine methylation, and show that methylation regulates MtrA activity. We propose that protein methylation could be a more prevalent modification in mycobacterial proteins.
Stemming the tide of antibiotic resistance by exploiting bacteriophages
Authors: Love Michael J , Dobson Renwick C J , Billington Craig
Published: November 2020

The growing prevalence of antibiotic resistance is a global crisis. It is predicted that by 2050, antibiotic resistance-related deaths will exceed by 10 million per year. Thus, there is an urgent need for alternative strategies that can either replace or supplement antibiotic use. Bacteriophages and their encoded lytic proteins, called endolysins, have both shown promise as antibiotic alternatives. Bacteriophages were first investigated as therapeutics nearly a century ago, but the success of antibiotics led to phage therapy being largely abandoned in Western medicine until recently. While sporadic reports of life-saving successes in the ad hoc use of phage therapy have emerged, properly designed, robust clinical trials and clear regulatory guidelines are required before the true potential of phage therapy can be realized. In addition, despite endolysin research still being in its infancy, the early successes of endolysin-based therapeutics already entering clinical trials are an exciting glimpse into the future. No stone can be left unturned in the discovery and development of novel therapeutics if we are to ensure a future supply of effective treatments for bacterial infections.
Ethics in International Practice
Authors: Davis-McFarland Elise
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Credible information on the numbers of people in Majority World countries who have communication and swallowing disorders does not seem to exist; however, there is evidence of the need for communication therapy services in those countries. Certified speech-language pathologists who provide clinical services for people with communication and swallowing disorders overseas must adhere to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's Code of Ethics. The purpose of this article is to discuss the requirements for the exercise of autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice in the context of international practices.

Method

The relationship between cultural authenticity and ethically provided services is considered. There is also a discussion of the ethics and outcomes of short-term volunteer programs for clients in Majority World countries and communities. Guidance for development of needed services and programs in the Majority World is offered. Examples of culturally relevant and ethically developed service and collaboration projects are cited.

Results

The codes of ethics of several Minority and Majority World speech-language therapy associations are reviewed to reflect their requirements for the ethical practices that must be adhered to during clinical practice beyond their members' national borders. There is also guidance on the importance and influence of clinicians' attitudes and demeanor in their work in Majority World countries.

Conclusions

Ethical clinical practice in Majority World countries requires adherence to the clinician's professional association's code of ethics. Equally important are information and attitudes that enable the clinician to develop and provide services from a perspective of cultural humility and understanding of the community's attitudes, needs, and expectations. An important and necessary aspect of ethical practice is the clinician's personal attitudes and knowledge of the country they bring to their clinical practice.
Study on the Quality Control Chart for Determination of Soil Organic Carbon by Instrumental Analysis
Authors: Fuling Zhang , Zhuo Zhang , Er-long Diao , Meiliang Zhao , Menglin Liu , Xunxun Qiu
Published: November 2020

【Objective】To ensure that each analysis step is in the monitoring state. The quality control chart is used to control the process of soil organic carbon content determination, and the reasons for drifting or exceeding the allowable value of the result data can be found out in time.【Method】The content of soil organic carbon in quality control samples was determined by instrumental analysis, and the quality control chart was drawn based on the determination data in Excel 2007, which was used for the quality control of the soil organic carbon content determination process.【Result】The control line of the mean control chart was 41.94% ~ 40.51%, and the warning limit was 41. 70% ~ 41. 74%. The control line range of the range control chart is 0.00% ~ 2.75%, and the warning limit is 0.00% ~ 2. 12%.【Conclusion】The quality control chart method is simple to operate,easy to master, and can timely find the abnormal points or abnormal trends of data, which has high application value in test analysis, and can ensure the accuracy of laboratory test results.
Analysis of coal dust source strength in open storage yard of coal port area of Huanghua Port
Authors: Shipei Dong , Bin Liu
Published: November 2020

Starting in 2017, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment began to implement a pollution permit system nationwide, in which environmental protection authorities issue permits to enterprises and institutions and supervise them in accordance with the permits. The accounting results of pollutant emissions are an important basis for the issuance of emission permits. At present, the air pollutant accounting methods for emissions from fixed emission facilities are mature and reliable, while there is no mature calculation method for coal dust emission in open storage yard. In this paper, based on the data of area, volume and coal nature of open storage yard in the coal port area of Huanghua Port, the author calculated the strong dust source under different wind speed by using the calculation formula of bulk dust amount in large ports, so as to provide technical support for the forecast study of atmospheric environmental impact in the coal port area of Huanghua Port and the calculation of total atmospheric particulate emission by the environmental management department.
Namtso Ancient Lagoon and Ancient Sea Erosion Landform
Authors: Li Yaohuang
Published: November 2020

During a certain geological period, the sea surface is at the current elevation of about 4746-4755 meters. When the sea surface is about 4746-4755 meters above sea level, the Namtso region of Tibet is a lagoon in the sea. The sea surface was kept stable at the above location for a long time, and a lot of sea erosion landforms were generated on the coast. The ancient sea erosion caves, sea erosion pillars, sea erosion arch bridges, sea erosion headlands, sea erosion headlands, sea erosion cliffs, sea erosion platforms and other various ancient sea erosion micro-landforms are well preserved on the banks of Namtso Lake. It is a unique and natural ancient coastal landscape park in the world
Study on the lithofacies of the second member of Tengger formation in Jiergalangtu of Erlian Basin
Authors: Daming Niu , Hang Fu , Yunfeng Zhang , Yilin Li
Published: November 2020

Through analyzing coring well observation and in combination with drilling data log sheet and the analysis of the test data, combined with the regional sedimentary tectonic evolution background of the second member of Tengger formation in Jiergalangtu of Erlian basin, the results show that lithic arkose and feldspathic lithic sandstone are developed in the study area. There are abundant sedimentary structures, mainly including parallel bedding, laminated bedding and massive bedding, etc. According to the analysis of sedimentary characteristics, nine lithofacies types and four vertical assemblages are summarized, which respectively reflect different microfacies environments: subaqueous distributary channel subaqueous distributary channel interestuarine bar sheet sand.
Study of energy-efficient architecture address utilizing topography and geomorphology based on Google Earth and its remote sensing data
Authors: Wang Yijin
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we describe the formatting guidelines for ACM SIG Proceedings. With the development of social economy, smart cities, especially green energy-saving buildings, are foremost trend in the future. The location of green buildings has a very important impact on the design and plan of future smart cities. The influence of the natural environment, especially that of the topography and landform on the location of architectural design is very significant. Google Earth (GE) platform can provide sufficient remote sensing data, which greatly interpret and promote surface information. However, just few people have done related research. This article takes Beijing as an example and uses Google Earth platform and the remote sensing data to obtain the 3D digital elevation model (DEM) data; and then Google earth’s geomorphology data are used to analyze the landform features. Finally, by analyzing their characteristics and distribution features, five energy-saving building locations were selected in Beijing. It can be concluded that GE, is an effective and potential platform for providing remote sensing data, and analyzing the DEM and landform. The rational analysis of the building addresses in this paper could help the buildings to avoid potential geological disasters and make full use of natural resources. Moreover, this research on energyefficient building addresses make a suggestion for future smart city planning.
Study on Sedimentary Records of Paleoclimate and Paleoenvironmental Evolution of the Dongsha Atoll of South China Sea in Recent 70 Thousand Years
Authors: tengfei Li
Published: November 2020

The Dongsha Atoll of South China Sea are located on the western reef terrace of Dongsha Atoll, where a large amount of terrigenous clastic materials and marine biomass are accumulated, which play an important role in the global material cycles. In recent years, the water level in this area has been on the decrease along with the frequent occurrence of floods, red tides, low-oxygen conditions and warmer waters as a result of worsening global ecology. In this paper, accelerated mass spectrometer (AMS) 14C was used to analyse the sediments in Dongsha Atoll of South China Sea, and studied the organic matter deposition in this area in the past 70,000 years combined with sediment grain size, geochemistry and other indicators, which revealed the influence of paleoclimate environment and climate change on the development of this area. The results showed that the environment and climate are essential to the distribution of particles, which can be divided into three layers from bottom to top, i.e., calcium-rich layer, organic matter layer and fine-grained sediment layer. Al2O3, K2O, TFe2O3 and MgO contribute 58.84% to the total variance, indicating that the composition plays a decisive role in the content of major elements in the region. Turbidity sediments have been widely distributed in different areas of the region since last glacial period, among which turbidity occurred most frequently in the period 200,000 years ago when the sea level was relatively low. This study provided a theoretical basis for the evolution of climate and environment in the South China Sea.
Comparison and Selection of Sewage Outlet of a Refining and Chemical Project Based on Mike21 Model
Authors: Yajuan Li , Yuxin Zhu , Tianyu Mao
Published: November 2020

The Mike21 model is used to conduct a numerical simulation study on the setting plan of the warm water outlet of a refining and chemical project. After determining the environmental conditions, formulate key constraints. Through the parameter setting of the model, a hydrodynamic model is established, and numerical simulation of temperature and drainage under several combinations of different schemes is carried out. According to the prediction results of the model, the results under different emission conditions in winter and summer and under different environmental conditions can be compared and analyzed, combined with the requirements of environmental conditions, and optimized, thereby obtaining relatively optimized site selection conditions. Through the process of comparison and selection, the implementation method and application process of the Mike21 model for numerical simulation of warm drainage are proposed, and the application focus of the selection of the location of warm drainage outlets is summarized.
Effects of phosphorus and potassium bacterial Fertilizer on Rhizosphere soil nutrients and Fruit quality of Huangguo Citrus
Authors: Yang Youting , Gong Yan , Chen Zhaofang , Tan Liping , Zhang Qing , Qiu Xia , Deng Honghong , Liao Ling , Sun Guochao , Xiong Bo
Published: November 2020

In this experiment, 8-year-old yellow fruit citrus trees were used as materials, and the soil nutrients were determined with the combination of Bacillus megaterium, glial bacillus, organic-inorganic compound fertilizer and organic fertilizer, and the conventional application of organic fertilizer as the control. The results showed that the soil nutrients of the treatments of Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus glia and organic fertilizer were significantly higher than those of the control. The treatment of applying Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus glia alone reached a significant level in many soil nutrient indexes. It is suggested that the combination of Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus glia and organic fertilizer should be applied in production.
Study on the Spatial Connection of Beijing Tianjin Hebei Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Hongmei Wang , Zhihui Lu
Published: November 2020

The importance of close cooperation among cities can be seen from the development experience of mature urban agglomerations in the world. Compared with the Yangtze river delta and the Pearl River Delta urban agglomeration, cities in Beijing Tianjin Hebei urban agglomerations are in poor connection. This paper studies the internal linkages of Beijing Tianjin Hebei Urban Agglomerations, and finds that: in recent years, the overall spatial linkages of the urban agglomerations have been several times higher than that in 2007, but they show the characteristics of geographically “dense in the South and sparse in the north”; the main connection tracks within the urban agglomerations are roughly “inverted L”, that is, the connection of “Beijing-Tianjin”, “Beijing-Baoding-Shijiazhuang” and “Xingtai-Handan”.
Farmland productivity estimation based on vegetation indexes from remote sensing data
Authors: Li Shaoshuai , Li Baipeng , Cao Wenjing
Published: November 2020

Ensuring food security is a long-term and arduous task. Timely and accurate grasp of grain production capacity information can provide favourable data support for the nation to formulate macroeconomic plans and food policies. With the development of remote sensing technology, it has been widely used in crop yield estimation models. In this paper, the yield of spring maize in Da’an of Jilin province was estimated based on vegetation indexes calculated from Landsat-8 images. The results have shown that the fitting degree and estimation accuracy of yield estimation models at tasselling stage are significantly better than those at milk stage. Among these vegetation indexes, the model based on GNDVI has better fitting degree and estimation accuracy. This paper can provide reference for the post construction evaluation of high standard farmland in China.
Tendency and Causes Analysis of Marine Water Quality of Jinzhou Bay
Authors: Junjie Zhao , Youping Shou , Jing Bai , Ning Wang
Published: November 2020

Based on the two monitoring data of Jinzhou Bay in July 2008, September 2013 and September 2016, this article analysis the temporal trends of marine water quality of Jinzhou Bay. The average concentration of COD, inorganic nitrogen and phosphate is between 1.09mg/L~1.45mg/L, 0.42mg/L~0.711mg/L and 0.006mg/L~0.03mg/L, respectively. The concentration of inorganic nitrogen showed a downward trend while the concentration of phosphate showed an increased trend. Meanwhile, the concentration of COD had no significant change. Results showed that the inorganic nitrogen concentration and phosphate concentration have good correlation with eutrophication index and Eutrophication parameters（E）showing a clear upward trend. The emission of active phosphates and inorganic nitrogen from land-based pollutants are the main cause of this phenomenon.
A seabed detection technology based on multi-split beam phase difference
Authors: Fu Renqi , Feng Kai , Sun Weiping
Published: November 2020

In view of the difficult problem of high-precision bottom detection in multi-beam shallow sea topographic survey, a multi-beam seabed detection technology based on multi-split beam phase difference is proposed in this paper, and the realization method of this detection technology under U-shaped acoustic array is emphatically discussed. The simulation and actual measurement results show that the technology is not only capable of detecting the seabed in both mirrored and non-mirrored regions, but also can improve the detection performance of the system due to the introduction of multi-split beam, phase slope error curve and image transformation.
Experimental Platform Development of Similar Simulation and Mechanical Test for Undersea Metal Mining
Authors: Liu Zhixiang , Dai Xiaoqing , Yang Shan , Liu Yuxi
Published: November 2020

With the depletion of shallow metal resources in the land, the development of seabed resources has become a new direction. In order to achieve safe and efficient exploitation of seabed metal mineral resources, a similar simulation test platform was established for seabed mining of metal minerals in this paper. Similar simulation materials and the best material ratios were selected to make simulated specimens. A series of mechanical pressurization devices and model sample were prototyped and submarine simulation mining test was conducted. During the simulation mining test, stress and strain changes and microscopic observations of crack evolution were monitored by the static strain test system. These indicators revealed the characteristics of ore-rock mechanical change in the development of submarine mental resources. By exploring the best safe thickness of seabed resource mining, it provides effective data reference for subsequent seabed resource development, so as to realize safe and efficient mining.
Telemedizin
Authors: Reimer Jens
Published: November 2020

Liebe Leserinnen und Leser,

aktueller könnte unser Themenschwerpunkt kaum sein. Als wir das Thema Telemedizin in der Suchttherapie planten, war das uns derzeit beschäftigende Coronavirus noch unbekannt. Was danach kam ist uns allen mehr als präsent.
Impaired Regulation of Submaximal Force after ACL Reconstruction: Role of Muscle Spindles
Authors: Rice David , Lewis Gwyn , McNair Peter
Published: November 2020

Ongoing motor deficits are routinely present following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, including the ability to regulate muscle force. While such deficits are known, it is unclear why this occurs. The goal of the current study was to investigate the potential influence of muscle spindle input on submaximal force regulation and muscle activity at the knee in people following ACL reconstruction. Fourteen participants (8 female) who were 6−24 months post-ACL reconstruction and 15 control participants (8 female) undertook submaximal force matching and force modulation tasks before and after 20 min of vibration applied to the patella tendon. Across all tasks, the ACL reconstruction participants were poorer at force matching (P=0.007). The effect of vibration was not significant in either group for the force matching tasks (P=0.06), although there was a reduction in maximum voluntary contraction post-vibration in the control group (P<0.001). The ACL reconstruction group also showed evidence of greater activation of the medial hamstring muscles in comparison to controls (P=0.04). Individuals who have undergone ACL reconstruction have a diminished ability to accurately match and regulate submaximal muscle force, but this does not appear to be related to impaired muscle spindle input. Neuromuscular retraining programs that involve force regulation tasks may be necessary to optimize rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction.
Principles of Pharmacotherapy of Seizures and Status Epilepticus
Authors: Der-Nigoghossian Caroline , Tesoro Eljim P. , Strein Micheal , Brophy Gretchen M.
Published: November 2020

Status epilepticus is a neurological emergency with an outcome that is highly associated with the initial pharmacotherapy management that must be administered in a timely fashion. Beyond first-line therapy of status epilepticus, treatment is not guided by robust evidence. Optimal pharmacotherapy selection for individual patients is essential in the management of seizures and status epilepticus with careful evaluation of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic factors. With the addition of newer antiseizure agents to the market, understanding their role in the management of status epilepticus is critical. Etiology-guided therapy should be considered in certain patients with drug-induced seizures, alcohol withdrawal, or autoimmune encephalitis. Some patient populations warrant special consideration, such as pediatric, pregnant, elderly, and the critically ill. Seizure prophylaxis is indicated in select patients with acute neurological injury and should be limited to the acute postinjury period.
Status Epilepticus: Definition, Classification, Pathophysiology, and Epidemiology
Authors: Johnson Emily L. , Kaplan Peter W.
Published: November 2020

Status epilepticus (SE) is the state of continuous or repetitive seizures, which can occur with or without convulsions. Evolving definitions of SE take into account the concept that neuronal injury may occur at different times in different types of SE.SE that does not respond to initial treatment may become refractory or even super-refractory. Nonconvulsive SE is increasingly recognized in comatose patients in critical care units, with the growing use of continuous electroencephalogram monitoring. SE is a neurologic emergency that carries a high risk of mortality and morbidity.
Genetic Testing in Epilepsy
Authors: Ritter David M. , Holland Katherine
Published: November 2020

Because of next-generation sequencing and the discovery of many new causative genes, genetic testing in epilepsy patients has become widespread. Pathologic variants resulting in epilepsy cause a variety of changes that can be broadly classified into syndromic disorders (i.e., chromosomal abnormalities), metabolic disorders, brain malformations, and abnormal cellular signaling. Here, we review the available genetic testing, reasons to pursue genetic testing, common genetic causes of epilepsy, the data behind what patients are found to have genetic epilepsies based on current testing, and discussing these results with patients. We propose an algorithm for testing patients with epilepsy to maximize yield and limit costs based on their phenotype (including electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging findings), age of seizure onset, and presence of other neurologic comorbidities. Being able to discern which type of genetic testing to order, using that information to give targeted and cost-effective patient care, and interpreting results accurately will be a crucial skill for the modern neurologist.
Using DNA origami to produce nanoscale patterns and structures
Authors: Larter Raima
Published: November 2020

The review article provides an overview of the DNA origami technique for fabricating nanomaterials with specific patterns and structures.
VO2-based composite films with exemplary thermochromic and photochromic performance
Authors: Zhao Xiuxian , Hu Xiao , Sun Junhua , You Qi , Xu Huiyan , Liu Wei , Sun Guoxin , Nie Yong , Yao Wei , Jiang Xuchuan
Published: November 2020

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) is one of the best candidates for thermochromic smart windows, which undergoes a metal–insulator transition at a critical temperature (Tc) of ∼68 °C, accompanied with a huge transmittance contrast in the near-infrared range. However, the application of VO2-based smart windows is limited by the poor luminous transmittance (Tlum) and low solar modulation efficiency (ΔTsol). Besides, the intrinsic yellow–brown color of the VO2 film does not change before and after the phase transition, which is not satisfactory. In order to solve the above-mentioned issues, a photochromic material [6-nitro-1′,3′,3′-trimethylspiro-[2H-1-benzopyran-2,2′-indoline] (spiropyran)] has been employed to combine with VO2 nanoparticles to form a hybrid composite film. This newly designed nanostructure demonstrates exemplary solar modulation efficiency (ΔTsol = 23.58%) along with color change from yellow to pink as the light sources change. Moreover, this hybrid composite could block ultraviolet radiation, a crucial index to evaluate the performance of the VO2-based smart windows, which will be promising for industrial applications.
Thermal stability for Te-based devices
Authors: Zhao Chunsong , Hurtado Luis , Javey Ali
Published: November 2020

Tellurium (Te) has recently been rediscovered as an attractive semiconducting material for a wide range of electronic and optoelectronic applications. However, thermal instability of Te-based devices has not been investigated and introduces major drawbacks for their practical applications. Toward this goal, this work explores the influence of annealing temperatures on Te transistors and their two failure mechanisms, related to the sublimation of the Te channel and the degradation of the contacts. To overcome these challenges, we fabricated a Te device that is graphene-contacted and SiOx-encapsulated such that the Te channel and the contacts remain intact and stable at high temperatures. The device exhibits an effective mobility of ∼50 cm2 V−1 s−1, which is comparable to traditional metal-contacted Te transistors. The traditional Te devices have performance degradation with increasing temperature and failure at 200 °C. Through the graphene contact and SiOx encapsulation, our device shows improved thermal stability despite the repeated annealing processes for temperatures up to 250 °C, making it suitable for practical use.
The Panopticon device: An integrated Paul-trap–hemispherical mirror system for quantum optics
Authors: Araneda G. , Cerchiari G. , Higginbottom D. B. , Holz P. C. , Lakhmanskiy K. , Obšil P. , Colombe Y. , Blatt R.
Published: November 2020

We present the design and construction of a new experimental apparatus for the trapping of single Ba+ ions in the center of curvature of an optical-quality hemispherical mirror. We describe the layout, fabrication, and integration of the full setup, consisting of a high-optical access monolithic “3D-printed” Paul trap, the hemispherical mirror, a diffraction-limited in-vacuum lens (NA = 0.7) for collection of atomic fluorescence, and a state-of-the art ultra-high vacuum vessel. This new apparatus enables the study of quantum electrodynamics effects such as strong inhibition and enhancement of spontaneous emission and achieves a collection efficiency of the emitted light in a single optical mode of 31%.
Topology-induced dynamics in a network of synthetic oscillators with piecewise affine approximation
Authors: Firippi E. , Chaves M.
Published: November 2020

In synthetic biology approaches, minimal systems are used to reproduce complex molecular mechanisms that appear in the core functioning of multi-cellular organisms. In this paper, we study a piecewise affine model of a synthetic two-gene oscillator and prove existence and stability of a periodic solution for all parameters in a given region. Motivated by the synchronization of circadian clocks in a cluster of cells, we next consider a network of N identical oscillators under diffusive coupling to investigate the effect of the topology of interactions in the network’s dynamics. Our results show that both all-to-all and one-to-all coupling topologies may introduce new stable steady states in addition to the expected periodic orbit. Both topologies admit an upper bound on the coupling parameter that prevents the generation of new steady states. However, this upper bound is independent of the number of oscillators in the network and less conservative for the one-to-all topology.
Semiconducting metal oxides empowered by graphene and its derivatives: Progresses and critical perspective on selected functional applications
Authors: Solomon G. , Kohan M. G. , Landström A. , Vomiero A. , Concina I.
Published: November 2020

This Perspective presents and discusses the most recent advancements in the field of exploitation of hybrid nanostructured composites consisting of semiconducting metal oxides and graphene and its derivatives (graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, graphene quantum dots, and carbon nanotubes) in specific fields of applications, namely, photovoltaics, water splitting, photocatalysis, and supercapacitors. These hybrid materials have received remarkable attention over the last decade thanks to claimed outstanding functional optoelectronic properties, especially as for (photogenerated) charge carriers storage and transport, allowing the promotion of useful reactions and enhancement of the efficiency of several processes based on charge exchange. In situ and ex situ synthetic strategies have been applied in order to optimize the contact between the two partners and efforts have as well been devoted to investigate the best amount of carbon material to insert in the semiconductor scaffold. We provide the reader with an overview of the research carried out in the last decade, together with a critical analysis of the claimed benefits provided by the carbon materials, also highlighting the current questions waiting for the scientific community to provide an answer to.
Periodic vortex-antivortex pairs in tensile strained PbTiO3 films
Authors: Chen Y. T. , Tang Y. L. , Zhu Y. L. , Wang Y. J. , Han M. J. , Zou M. J. , Feng Y. P. , Geng W. R. , Gong F. H. , Ma X. L.
Published: November 2020

Topological lattices such as vortices are of importance in both scientific research and application potential. Here, we observed periodic vortex-antivortex pairs in PbTiO3/SrTiO3 multilayered films deposited on orthorhombic (110)-oriented GdScO3 by pulsed laser deposition. Domain patterns of the PbTiO3 layers containing topological structures were analyzed in detail by using advanced transmission electron microscopy. It was found that by increasing the PbTiO3 thickness, a/c domains with extra c domains will form in the triangle a domains in pure flux-closure structures. Atomically resolved high-angle annular dark field-scanning TEM imaging demonstrates that this specific domain structure results in vortex-antivortex pairs at the junctions of extra c domains and the original flux-closure structure, forming a periodic vortex-antivortex array throughout the PbTiO3 layer. These results suggest a pathway for designing new topological structures in ferroelectric films.
Combining Stokes and anti-Stokes interactions to achieve ultra-low noise dynamic Brillouin strain sensing
Authors: Murray Joseph B. , Redding Brandon
Published: November 2020

Brillouin based fiber sensors are susceptible to a range of technical and environmental noise sources that can degrade the sensor performance or introduce unacceptable levels of crosstalk. Here, we introduce a new measurand that combines information from the complex Stokes and anti-Stokes interactions to extract the Brillouin frequency shift while suppressing noise and crosstalk originating from fluctuations in the power, frequency, or polarization state of the pump and probe beams. We then present a modified slope-assisted Brillouin optical time domain analysis (BOTDA) architecture capable of simultaneously recording the gain, loss, and phase associated with both the Stokes and anti-Stokes interactions. We experimentally confirm that the sensor is able to reject noise due to laser frequency jitter, intensity noise, or polarization fading and is immune to crosstalk due to effects such as pump depletion. By suppressing these noise sources, the sensor is able to achieve a minimum detectable strain of only 15.6 nε/Hz1/2 in ∼1 km of fiber with 4 m spatial resolution and a sensor bandwidth of 25 kHz, representing a significant noise improvement compared to state-of-the-art BOTDA systems.
DNA origami directed fabrication of shape-controllable nanomaterials
Authors: Liu Fengsong , Shang Yingxu , Wang Zhaoran , Jiao Yunfei , Li Na , Ding Baoquan
Published: November 2020

Precise control over the morphologies of nanomaterials is of great importance in nanoscience, as the properties of nanomaterials are strongly dependent on their size, shape, and composition. Taking advantage of the strict base-pairing principle, DNA origami provides a simple way of fabricating complex architectures with nanoscale precision. DNA origami nanostructures have exhibited great potential in tuning the morphology and customizing the functions of various nanomaterials. In this paper, we briefly summarize the progress of shape-controllable fabrication of metal, metal oxide, inorganic nonmetallic nanomaterials, and polymer nanomaterials based on DNA origami. Furthermore, the remaining obstacles and prospects of shape-controllable nanomaterials fabrication directed by DNA origami are also discussed.
Reduction in leakage current through interface between Ga2O3 epitaxial layer and substrate by ion implantation doping of compensating impurities
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Kamimura Takafumi , Lin Chia-Hung , Nakata Yoshiaki , Higashiwaki Masataka
Published: November 2020

Strong accumulation of Si impurities has been observed at a Ga2O3 epilayer/substrate interface. The highly Si-doped region around the interface typically becomes a current conduction path, causing buffer leakage for lateral Ga2O3 field-effect transistors (FETs). To overcome the drawback, we performed Mg- or Fe-ion implantation doping into a Ga2O3 substrate prior to the subsequent molecular-beam epitaxy growth to compensate the accumulated Si donors at the interface. The Mg implantation doping showed a minimal effect on reduction in the interface leakage, irrespective of its concentration. On the other hand, the Fe doping with a high density of 2 × 1019 cm−3 provided a significant decrease in the leakage and decent FET characteristics.
Diamond gets harder, tougher, and more deformable
Authors: Xu Bo , Tian Yongjun
Published: November 2020

Diamonds may not be forever, but research interest in diamond has never ebbed. Owing to its highly symmetric crystal structure and strong covalent C–C bonds, diamond possesses an exceptional combination of physical properties. Its hardness and thermal conductivity are the highest among covalent materials. It also has a large bandgap and electric breakdown field, as well as optical transparency over a wide range of wavelengths. All of these are essential for a wide range of applications in both industrial and scientific areas. Despite these outstanding advantages, however, diamond is extremely brittle, with inferior toughness and poor deformability. These shortcomings have caused undesired tool breakage and have imposed severe constraints on technological innovations. To surmount these intrinsic deficiencies, tremendous research effort has been dedicated to developing advanced diamond products, with great progress being achieved in the past few years.
Stereodynamics of ultracold rotationally inelastic collisions
Authors: Morita Masato , Balakrishnan Naduvalath
Published: November 2020

Recent experiments on rotational quenching of HD in the v = 1, j = 2 rovibrational state in collisions with H2, D2, and He near 1 K have revealed strong stereodynamic preference stemming from isolated shape resonances. So far, the experiments and subsequent theoretical analyses have considered the initial HD rotational state in an orientation specified by the projection quantum number m or a coherent superposition of different m states. However, it is known that such stereodynamic control is generally not effective in the ultracold energy regime due to the dominance of the incoming s-wave (l = 0, partial wave). Here, we provide a detailed analysis of the stereodynamics of rotational quenching of HD by He with both m and m′ resolution, where m′ refers to the inelastically scattered HD. We show the existence of a significant m dependence in the m′-resolved differential and integral cross sections even in the ultracold s-wave regime with a factor greater than 60 for j = 2 → j′ = 1 and a factor greater than 1300 for j = 3 → j′ = 2 transitions. In the helicity frame, however, the integral cross section has no initial orientation (k) dependence in the ultracold energy regime, even resolving with respect to the final orientation (k′). The distribution of final rotational state orientations (k′) is found to be statistical (uniform), regardless of the initial orientation.
Square salads: exploring the diet of the southern hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) via DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Sobek Colin J. , Walker Faith M.
Published: November 2020

Southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons) are large semi-fossorial marsupials that inhabit semiarid areas of southern South Australia and southeast Western Australia. Despite their size and prominence on the landscape, little is published about diet and foraging preferences. Further, it is unclear whether this wombat species’ diet overlaps with sympatric western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus), which are locally abundant across the southern hairy-nosed wombat’s distribution. Competition for food resources may be an added stressor in Murraylands populations where kangaroos are plentiful. Here, we identified diet items and dietary overlap of southern hairy-nosed wombats and western grey kangaroos. We accomplished this by opportunistically sampling fresh faecal pellets from both species at Brookfield Conservation Park in April 2017. We performed DNA metabarcoding via Illumina next generation sequencing of the faecal DNA using the plant ITS2 gene. We identified 10 genera in the wombat diet and 20 in the diet of kangaroos; diets of both species included native and introduced genera. Eight genera were shared between both marsupials. This work highlights the capabilities of non-invasive genetic sampling in concert with DNA metabarcoding to elucidate diet and dietary overlap between species.
Fluorescence Study of the Influence of the Structure and Hydrophobicity of Fluorescent Dyes and Cationic Surfactants on their Association in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Klovak Viktoriia , Kulichenko Sergey , Lelyushok Serhii
Published: November 2020

The statistical characteristics of the dependences of the fluorescence signal of analytical systems as a function of the integral parameters of the structure of fluorescent reagents and cationic surfactants on their association in aqueous solutions has been investigated. Molecular weight, surface area, and their first-order molecular connectivity index have been taken as parameters of the structure of the reagents and cationic surfactants. The influence of the hydrophobicity of the reagent and cationic surfactants, such as the octanol–water distribution constant and octanol–water partition coefficient, on the fluorescence signal of the reagent–cationic surfactant associates have also been investigated. It is shown that the associates of anionic reagents with cationic surfactant counter ions are characterised by high stability and a higher analytical signal compared with associates in which there is no electrostatic attraction between the reagent and the surfactant ion. The effect of hydrophobicity of the reagent and cationic surfactant in the absence of electrostatic attraction between the interacting particles is similar. The increase in the role of the influence of the structure of cationic reagents in their association with cationic surfactants, when the electrostatic attraction is absent and the stability of the associates is due mainly to hydrophobic interactions, is noticeable. The regularities of the influence of the colloid-chemical state on the analytical signal of associated cationic surfactants in solutions have been investigated. The study made it possible to formulate a rational basis for the search and design of analytical systems for the determination of large cations by the fluorescence method.
Group sex events among female sex workers in Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Turek Evelyn M. , Fairley Christopher K. , Tabesh Marjan , Phillips Tiffany R. , Chow Eric P. F.
Published: November 2020

Background
Group sex is associated with increased risk of HIV and sexually transmissible infections (STIs), but there is limited data on group sex among female sex workers (FSW). Understanding current group sex practices among FSW may assist with understanding and addressing the rise in STIs observed among Australian FSW in the 2010s. The aim of this study was to examine the proportion of FSWs who had engaged in group sex. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among FSWs attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Australia, between March and April 2019. Females aged ≥18 years who self-reported as a sex worker were invited to participate in the survey asking whether they had had group sex in the past 3 months. Group sex was defined as sex that involved two or more sexual partners. Results: Of the 51 FSWs who completed the survey, the median age was 29 years (IQR 24–34). Almost half (49%; n = 25) reported having group sex in the past 3 months, with a median number of group sex events of two (IQR 1–4). Australian-born FSW were more likely to report group sex than overseas-born FSW (76% vs 42%; P = 0.02). Age, number of paid clients and injecting drug use were not associated with group sex. Conclusion: The present study findings show that group sex is common among FSW and should be included in peer sexual health education and interventions among FSW.