bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel chaotic attractor with constant Lyapunov exponent spectrum and its circuit implementation
Authors: Li Chun-Biao  , Wang Han-Kang  , Chen Su  ,   (1)江苏经贸职业技术学院工程技术学院，南京  210007；江苏省食品安全工程技术研究开发中心电源与系统部，南京  210007；南京理工大学电子工程与光电技术学院，南京  210094; (2)江苏省食品安全工程技术研究开发中心电源与系统部，南京  210007; (3)南京理工大学电子工程与光电技术学院，南京  210094
Published: December 2020

Based on the further evolvement of the improved chaotic system with constant Lyapunov exponent spectrum, by introducing an absolute term in the dynamic equation, a novel chaotic attractor is found in this paper. Firsty, the existence of chaotic attractor is verified by simulation of phase portrait, Poincaré mapping, and Lyapunov exponent spectrum. Secondly, the basic dynamical behaviour of the new system is investigated and expounded. Simulation of Lyapunov exponent spectrum, bifurcation diagram and numerical analysis on amplitude evolvement of state variables show that the state variables of the chaotic system can be modified linearly by a global linear amplitude adjuster while the Lyapunov exponent spectrum keeps on stable and the chaotic attractor displays the same phase portrait. Finally, an analog circuit is designed to implement the new system, the chaotic attractor is observed and the action of global linear amplitude adjuster is verified, all of which show a good agreement between numerical simulation and experimental results.
The scattering of two-mode squeezed vacuum state and entangled coherent state through a one-dimensional potential barrier
Authors: Chen Xing  , Xia Yun-Jie  ,   山东省激光偏光与信息技术重点实验室，曲阜师范大学物理系，曲阜  273165
Published: December 2020

We analyze the one-dimensional potential barrier scattering problem of two-mode squeezed vacuum state and entangled coherent state. We show that the entanglement of both the scattering states exhibits a parabolic relation with the transmission coefficient of the barrier, and valley of the parabola corresponds with a semi-anti-semi-permeable barrier. In addition, the entanglement of the former has a similar parabolic relation with the incident squeezed factor, and the entanglement of the latter has a linear relation with the incident entanglement. The fidelities of both the scattering states increase as the transmission coefficient increases, but the former decreases as the incident squeezed factor increases and the latter decreases as the incident module of coherent state increases.
The field dependence of magnetoelastic damping in magnetostrictive material and its application in the magnetic field sensing
Authors: Bian Lei-Xiang  , Wen Yu-Mei  , Li Ping  ,   重庆大学光电工程学院，光电技术及系统教育部重点实验室，重庆  400044
Published: December 2020

The magnetoelastic damping in magnetostrictive material is investigated. It is noted that the quality factor （the inverse measure of damping） of giant magnetostrictive material Terfenol-D is strongly dependent on bias direct current （DC） magnetic field. Taking advantage of the DC field dependence of magnetoelastic damping in magnetostrictive material, a DC or quasistatic magnetic sensor is proposed. The sensor is designed as a composite piezoelectric transformer （CPT） which is fabricated by bonding magnetostrictive material and piezoelectric transformer in layers. Theoretical analysis shows that the output voltage of the CPT is directly proportional to the quality factor of the CPT. Therefore, the output voltage of the CPT also strongly depends on DC field due to the strong field dependence effect of quality factor in magnetostrictive material. In addition, the ΔE effect of magnetostrictive material has little influence on the magnitude of the output voltage. A Terfenol-D/PZT8 composite transformer is fabricated for experiment. The experimental results show that the output sensitivity to DC field achieves ~5.12 mV·Oe-1 when the CPT is driven near resonance by an AC voltage with amplitude of 0.5 V.
A wide field wind image interferometer with chromatic and thermal compensation
Authors: Zhu Hua-Chun  , Zhang Chun-Min  , Jian Xiao-Hua  ,   西安交通大学理学院，非平衡物质结构及量子调控教育部重点实验室，西安  710049
Published: December 2020

The basic conditions for designing a wide field Michelson interferometer with chromatic and thermal compensation, which is used to measure the upper atmospheric wind field，is briefly described. Comparing with the current method for designing the wide field Michelson interferometer with chromatic and thermal compensation, we present a method uses four media for the compensation of the MI to eliminate the monochromatic thermal aberration. The result shows that, by using this method, the polychromatic thermal aberration is ten to hundred times smaller than the method now in use. The research has important theoretical significance and practical value both for the research and development of the wide field Michelson interferometer with chromatic and thermal compensation for detection of the upper atmospheric wind field.
Temporal statistics of multiply scattered terahertz pulses in scattering medium
Authors: Liu Wen-Jun  , Mao Hong-Yan  , Fu Guo-Qing  , Qu Shi-Liang  ,   哈尔滨工业大学（威海）光电科学系,威海  264209
Published: December 2020

The temporal statistics of multiple scattered broadband terahertz pulses through a highly scattering medium is analyzed. The probability distribution function of the scattered field varies with the delay time. The probability distributions of the scattered field, and the real and imaginary components are discussed. Due to the broad bandwidth and the transient nature of the terahertz pulses, the statistics of the scattered field evolves over time and is therefore nonstationary. This analysis emphasizes that these measured fields are not stationary. We demonstrate that the nonstationary process is a direct consequence of the time dependence of the averaged intensity.
Theoretical study on electron impact excitation of highly charged Ne-like ions
Authors: Yang Ning-Xuan  , Jiang Jun  , Xie Lu-You  , Dong Chen-Zhong  ,   (1)西北师范大学物理与电子工程学院，兰州  730070; (2)西北师范大学物理与电子工程学院，兰州  730070；西北师范大学与中国科学院近代物理研究所极端环境原子分子物理联合实验室,兰州  730070
Published: December 2020

The electron impact excitation （EIE） cross sections from the ground state to all of the 2s22p53 and 2s2p63（=s, p, d） states along the Ne-like isoelectronic sequence of ions （Z=50—57） have been calculated by using the multi-configuration Dirac-Fock package GRASP92 and the fully relativistic distorted-wave program REIE06. In the calculations, the relativistic effects and electron correlation effects are considered systematically. Based on those calculations, the EIE cross sections along the Ne-like isoelectronic sequence of ions for different incident electron energies are discussed, and some important conclusions are drawn. We also study the influence of the correlation effects on the values of the 3C/3D line-intensity ratio ［3C: （2p1/23d3/2）1→2s22p6 1S0, 3D: （2p3/23d5/2）1→2s22p6 1S0］ along the Ne-like sequence. A comparison is made between the present results and previous theoretical calculations and experimental results for the EIE cross sections in Ba46+ ions, and a good agreement is obtained.
Photodetachment of H－ ion in a uniform electric field near a metal surface
Authors: Huang Kai-Yun  , Wang De-Hua  ,   鲁东大学物理学院，烟台  264025
Published: December 2020

Using the closed orbit theory, we calculate the photodetachment cross section of H-ion in a uniform electric field near a metal surface. The results show that the photodetachment cross section of H- near the threshold has a significant change after the metal surface has been placed in the uniform electric field. Compared with the situation of the photodetachment of H- ion in a single uniform electric field, the oscillating amplitude of the photodetachment cross section of this system is increased and the oscillating frequency is decreased. If we keep the electric field strength at a given value, we find that with the increase of the distance between the metal surface and the H- ion, the oscillating amplitude of the photodetachment cross section decreases and the oscillating frequency increases. When the ion-to-surface distance increases to a certain value, the influence of the metal surface disappeared, and the photodetachment cross section approaches the photodetachment cross section of H- in a uniform electric field.
Numerical simulation of equivalent electromagnetic parameters of composite material
Authors: Ding Shi-Jing  , Ge De-Biao  , Shen Ning  ,   (1)西安电子科技大学理学院,西安  710071; (2)西安电子科技大学理学院,西安  710071；总参谋部工程兵科研三所，洛阳  471023; (3)西安邮电学院电子与信息工程系，西安  710006
Published: December 2020

The numerical reconstruction scheme of equivalent electromagnetic parameters for composite material is proposed based on the finite difference time domain（FDTD） method. To study the relationship between equivalent electromagnetic parameters and the bulk density of mixed medium, the reflection coefficient and transmission coefficient were firstly calculated by the FDTD method, and then the equivalent electromagnetic parameters were reconstructed by genetic algorithm and propagation matrix method under different blending ratios. When the blending ratio of composite material is low or high,the equivalent electromagnetic parameters calculated by the equivalent constitutive parameter formulas and numerical reconstruction scheme agree well with each other. The results are somewhat different only for the middle blending ratio. The results show the feasibility of the proposed numerical scheme for the reconstruction of equivalent electromagnetic parameters of composite material.
Optimization and analysis of the structural parameters of subwavelength metal focusing lens
Authors: Li Min  , Zhang Zhi-You  , Shi Sha  , Du Jing-Lei  ,   四川大学物理科学与技术学院，纳光子技术研究所，成都  610064
Published: December 2020

The methods for improving the focusing properties of subwavelength metallic lens by optimizing the groove width and depth of the structure simultaneously are presented. We investigate how the variations of the width and depth of the groove affect the half width at half maximum of the focus, intensity, normal focusing efficiency of the focal spot and the focal length, based on the finite-difference and time-domain method. The optimum design methods of metal lens are put forth through discussing the focusing regularity and physical mechanism, which can provide a theoretical basis for realizing the nano-focusing and flexible manipulation of light wave based on metallic lens.
Influence of the polarization direction on the modulation depth and interferential intensity of a new polarizing atmospheric Michelson interferometer
Authors: Zhang Chun-Min  , Zhu Lan-Yan  ,   西安交通大学理学院,非平衡物质和量子调控教育部重点实验室，西安  710049
Published: December 2020

The principle of the polarizing atmospheric Michelson interferometer is introduced, the influence of the polarization directions of all the components on its interferential intensity and modulation depth is discussed, and the dependence of intensity and modulation depth on the deviation is calculated with the polarization direction deviating from the ideal direction. We analyze the influence on the intensity and modulation depth when the polarization directions of the polarizer, the three quarter-wave plates and the analyzer deviate from the ideal direction. The changing curves of modulation depth, wind velocity and the temperature with the deviation of the polarization direction are obtained. We also give the tolerances of all the polarization directions. These results would be helpfull for theoretical research and development of the new polarizing atmospheric Michelson interferometer. It also has scientific value and wide prospect for measuring winds in the thermosphere and for space measurement.
Voltage and temperature dependence of reverse leakage current of lattice-matched InAlN/GaN heterostructure Schottky contact
Authors: Yan Da-Wei , Wu Jing , Yan Xiao-Hong , Li Wei-Ran , Yu Dao-Xin , Cao Yan-Rong , Gu Xiao-Feng ,   Engineering Research Center of Internet of Things Technology Applications (Ministry of Education), Department of Electronic Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China,   Beijing Engineering Research Center of High-reliability IC with Power Industrial Grade, Beijing Smart-Chip Microelectronics Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing 102200, China,   State Key Discipline Laboratory of Wide Band-gap Semiconductor Techonology, Xidian University, Xi’an 710071, China
Published: December 2020

In this paper, the temperature-dependent current-voltage (T-I-V) characteristics of lattice-matched InAlN/GaN heterostructure Schottky contact in a reverse direction are measured, and the voltage dependence and temperature dependence of the leakage current are studied. The obtained results are as follows.1) The reverse current is a strong function of voltage and temperature, and the saturation current is much larger than the theoretical value, which cannot be explained by the classical thermionic emission (TE) model. 2) In the low-bias region, the \begin{document}$ \ln(I/E)\text{-}E^{1/2} $\end{document} data points obey a good linear relationship, whose current slope and corresponding activation energy are close to the values predicted by the Frenkel-Poole (FP) model, indicating the dominant role of the FP emission mechanism. 3) In the high-bias region, the \begin{document}$ \ln(I/E^2)\text{-}E^{-1} $\end{document}data points also follow a linear dependence, but the current slope is a weak function of temperature, indicating that the Fowler-Nordheim tunneling mechanism should be mainly responsible for the leakage current. 4) The current barrier height is extracted to be about 0.60 eV, which is much lower than the value of 2.91 eV obtained from the TE model, confirming the primary leakage path of the conductive dislocations, where the localized barrier is significantly reduced due to the ionization of shallow donor-like traps.
Numerical simulation of influence of magnetic field on plasma characteristics and surface current of ion source of 2-cm electron cyclotron resonance ion thruster
Authors: Xia Xu , Yang Juan , Fu Yu-Liang , Wu Xian-Ming , Geng Hai , Hu Zhan ,   School of Astronautics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China,   Lanzhou Institute of Physics, Lanzhou 730000, China
Published: December 2020

The cathode-less miniature electron cyclotron resonance ion thruster (ECRIT) has the advantages of long-life and simple-structure. In the ECRIT ion source, the plasma distribution will affect the beam extraction, and the relative position of the ECR layer determined by the magnetic field structure and the flat-ring antenna together affect the plasma distribution. Due to the sheath, the ions or electrons in the plasma will be accelerated to sputter the surface of wall and induce plasma loss. It is important to investigate the wall currents and plasma characteristics. Therefore, particle-in-cell with Monte Carlo collision (PIC/MCC) model is established in this article to study the influence of the magnetic field structure on the plasma and wall current characteristics of 2-cm ECRIT ion source. The calculation results show that the electrons are confined near the ECR layer of antenna by the magnetic mirror, which leads the plasma to be distributed near the ECR layer. When the ECR layer is located on the upstream side of the flat-ring antenna, the plasma is concentrated between the antenna and magnet rings, and the ion density in front of the grid is lowest, which results in a lower ion beam current extracted from ion source and a lower current on the surface of magnetic ring and antenna. When the ECR layer is located on the downstream side of the flat-ring antenna, the plasma density near the upstream side of the antenna and grid is high, which results in higher ion beam current extracted from the ion source and higher current on the surface of antenna and magnetic ring. The plasma distribution and the total wall current of the ion source are affected weakly by the magnetic field structure. In this magnetic field structure, the ion sputtering on the flat-ring antenna is serious. Although such a magnetic field design can increase the extracted ion beam current, it will shorten the working life of the ion source. In the future, when designing a new thruster, it is necessary to weigh the ion current of extraction and lifetime to select the appropriate magnetic field structure.
Effect of pressure on discharge mode transition in radio-frequency capacitively coupled micro-beam plasmas
Authors: Huang Jiu-Huan , Gao Fei , Wang You-Nian ,   Key Laboratory of Materials Modification by Laser, Ion, and Electron Beams (Ministry of Education), School of Physics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
Published: December 2020

Micro-beam radio-frequency (RF) capacitive discharges have been widely used in the plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of nanocrystalline particles such as nano silicon crystal. However, the plasma column shrinks radially at a sufficiently high gas pressures as manifested by their glow not entirely filling the radial cross-section of the discharge tube. This greatly limits the dissociation rate of gas in plasma. In order to obtain the information about the plasma column varying with gas pressure, the formation of different gas discharge mode under different pressure is discussed. In this paper the spatial characteristics of micro-beam RF capacitive discharges are investigated by using an intensified charged-coupled device (ICCD) and a single lens reflex camera (SLR camera). Furthermore, high voltage probe and current probe are used to record the electrical characteristics of the high voltage electrode. The results indicate that in a pure argon discharge, the discharge mode evolves from a glow discharge into a filament discharge with the increase of pressure. As the pressure continues to increase, the filament is split: a single channel of plasma is split into two or more filaments at a certain gas pressure. However, the glow discharge in a mixture of 99% argon and 1% hydrogen at a low pressure is observed: the plasma spreads throughout the tube. As the pressure increases, the filament disappears, and the plasma column still can be observed in the center of quartz tube. The glow shrinks in the radial center at a moderate pressure. At a high pressure, the "annulus" glow discharge is achieved as manifested by a glow ring on the surface of the discharge tube. In addition, in pure hydrogen discharges, the discharge mode evolves from the full-space glow discharge into an "annulus" glow discharge with pressure increasing. Finally, through the interaction between the electron heating by the radio frequency electric field and heat conduction of gas, the filament discharge in a low thermal conduction gas is explained. In addition, special attention is paid to the pure argon filamentation, which is the splitting of a single channel of plasma into two or more smaller filaments as a result of the skin effect.
Isolation and Identification of Microsporum canis in Companion Animals from Selected Local Government Areas in Abia State
Authors: Okechukwu Nwiyi, Paul , Betsy Ottah,
Published: December 2020

The aim of the study is to isolate and identify Microsporum canis from companion animals (dogs and cats) in three local government areas of Abia State. A total of one hundred and fifty skin scrapings from infected dogs (100) and cats (50) were screened. Saboruad destroxe agar was used for the culture and Needle mount technique was adopted. Lactophenol Cotton Blue (LCB) was used for staining. Demographic indices like; age, sex, and breed of the animals were considered. This organism at macroscopy appears as white, light yellow, cottony to powdery colonies. At microscopic view, the spores of M. canis appear as large and spindle shaped with thick wall. The dogs has a predominant isolation rate of 36.0%.The female dogs and cats presented the highest frequency of occurrence at 58.2% and 63.6% respectively. Dogs of 9months old and above had more M. canis isolation rate at 70.0%, while cats between 5 and 8months of age had the highest isolation rate at 33.3%. Dogs and cats at 1 to 4 months of age had the least M. canis isolation rate at 7.5% and 14.5% respectively. The indigenous breeds of dogs had the highest isolation rate of M. canis at 53.8% while the Caucasian breed was the least at 7.7%. Statistical analysis shows that (p=.05) there is significance in isolation rate of M. canis in dogs and cats.
Tumour Induced Osteomalacia: Rapid Clinical and Biochemical Control Using Octreotide
Authors: Elshafie Omayma , Magbali Ali Al , Woodhouse Nicholas
Published: December 2020

Aims: To assess the effects of short acting octreotide on the Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 levels and the clinical outcome in a bedridden patient with Tumour Induced Osteomalacia.

Presentation of the Case: A 40-year old female, presented with a 16-year history of progressive weakness and bone pains. Severe hypophosphatemia had been documented throughout and she had been treated intermittently with oral phosphate and various preparation of vitamin D.  Hypercalcaemia due to parathyroid hyperplasia was diagnosed 4 years previously. In the last 2 years she had undergone bilateral hip prostheses and removal of 2 hyperplastic parathyroid glands. When seen by us she was bedbound with severe restriction of all joint movements, there was a palpable left buttock mass 4x4 cm. Tumour induced osteomalacia was suspected and confirmed by finding grossly elevated levels of Fibroblast growth factor (FGF-23) 3400 Ru/ml (44-140).The serum calcium 2.5 mmol/L (n 2.1-2.5), phosphate 0.3 mmol/L  (n 0.8-1.45).Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) 400 U/L ( n 35-104), Parathyroid hormone (PTH) 27 pmol/L (n 1.6-9.3) , and creatinine 70 umol/L (n 45-84). Octreotide scanning revealed focal uptake in the buttock corresponding to the MRI findings. Treatment with octreotide 100 mcg 8 hourly was given for 10 days before surgery. By day 3 the FGF-23 had fallen to 400 and on the day of surgery was 210 Ru/ml. A benign mesenchymal tumour was completely resected and 8 weeks following surgery the FGF-23 was normal, serum calcium 2.7 mmol/L, serum phosphorus 0.63 mmol/L, ALP 690 U/L, PTH 22 pmol/L . The patient was then able to walk in a Zimmer frame after 2 months. Since then she recovered completely, she is able to walk without assistance for the last 2 years.

Conclusion: This case provides an example of successful use of short acting octreotide in controlling the disease and demonstrated a rapid normalisation of elevated FGF-23 levels achieved during treatment with octreotide. It describes a rare association between tumour induced osteomalacia (TIO) and parathyroid hyperplasia, the value of octreotide scanning in tumour localisation and the potential for using LA octreotide therapy in patients with responsive tumours that cannot be localised or removed for any reason.
SPT6 recruits SND1 to co‐activate human telomerase reverse transcriptase to promote colon cancer progression
Authors: Diao Chaoliang , Guo Ping , Yang Wenjing , Sun Yao , Liao Yina , Yan Yue , Zhao Anshi , Cai Xin , Hao Jiaojiao , Hu Sheng , Yu Wendan , Chen Manyu , Wang Ruozhu , Li Wenyang , Zuo Yan , Pan Jinjin , Hua Chunyu , Lu Xiaona , Fan Wenhua , Zheng Zongheng , Deng Wuguo , Luo Guangyu , Guo Wei
Published: December 2020

Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) plays an extremely important role in cancer initiation and development, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the precise upstream regulatory mechanisms of hTERT in different cancer types remain poorly understood. Here, we uncovered the candidate transcriptional factor of hTERT in CRC and explored its role and the corresponding molecular mechanisms in regulating hTERT expression and CRC survival with an aim of developing mechanism‐based combinational targeting therapy. The possible binding proteins at the hTERT promoter were uncovered using pull‐down/mass spectrometry analysis. The regulation of SPT6 on hTERT expression and CRC survival was evaluated in human CRC cell lines and mouse models. Mechanistic studies focusing on the synergy between SPT6 and staphylococcal nuclease and Tudor domain containing 1 (SND1) in controlling hTERT expression and CRC progression were conducted also in the above two levels. The expression correlation and clinical significance of SPT6, SND1, and hTERT were investigated in tumor tissues from murine models and patients with CRC in situ. SPT6 was identified as a possible transcriptional factor to bind to the hTERT promoter. SPT6 knockdown decreased the activity of hTERT promoter, downregulated the protein expression level of hTERT, suppressed proliferation, invasion, and stem‐like properties, promoted apoptosis induction, and enhanced chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity in vitro. SPT6 silencing also led to the delay of tumor growth and metastasis in mice carrying xenografts of human‐derived colon cancer cells. Mechanistically, SND1 interacted with SPT6 to co‐control hTERT expression and CRC cell proliferation, stemness, and growth in vitro and in vivo. SPT6, SND1, and hTERT were highly expressed simultaneously in CRC tissues, both from the murine model and patients with CRC in situ, and pairwise expression among these three factors showed a significant positive correlation. In brief, our research demonstrated that SPT6 synergized with SND1 to promote CRC development by targeting hTERT and put forward that inhibiting the SPT6‐SND1‐hTERT axis may create a therapeutic vulnerability in CRC.
A Biomimetic, Copolymeric Membrane for Cell‐Stretch Experiments with Pulmonary Epithelial Cells at the Air‐Liquid Interface
Authors: Doryab Ali , Taskin Mehmet Berat , Stahlhut Philipp , Schröppel Andreas , Wagner Darcy E. , Groll Jürgen , Schmid Otmar
Published: December 2020

Chronic respiratory diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide, but only symptomatic therapies are available for terminal illness. This in part reflects a lack of biomimetic in vitro models that can imitate the complex environment and physiology of the lung. Here, a copolymeric membrane consisting of poly(ε‐)caprolactone and gelatin with tunable properties, resembling the main characteristics of the alveolar basement membrane is introduced. The thin bioinspired membrane (≤5 μm) is stretchable (up to 25% linear strain) with appropriate surface wettability and porosity for culturing lung epithelial cells under air–liquid interface conditions. The unique biphasic concept of this membrane provides optimum characteristics for initial cell growth (phase I) and then switch to biomimetic properties for cyclic cell‐stretch experiments (phase II). It is showed that physiologic cyclic mechanical stretch improves formation of F‐actin cytoskeleton filaments and tight junctions while non‐physiologic over‐stretch induces cell apoptosis, activates inflammatory response (IL‐8), and impairs epithelial barrier integrity. It is also demonstrated that cyclic physiologic stretch can enhance the cellular uptake of nanoparticles. Since this membrane offers considerable advantages over currently used membranes, it may lead the way to more biomimetic in vitro models of the lung for translation of in vitro response studies into clinical outcome.
Emerging Plasmonic Assemblies Triggered by DNA for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Zhu Rong , Li Juan , Lin Lisen , Song Jibin , Yang Huanghao
Published: December 2020

Plasmonic gold nanocrystal represents plasmonic metal nanomaterials, and has a variety of unique and beneficial properties, such as optical signal enhancement, catalytic activity, and photothermal properties tuned by local temperature, which are useful in physical, chemical, and biological applications. In addition, the inherent properties of predictable programmability, sequence specificity, and structural plasticity provide DNA nanostructures with precise controllability, spatial addressability, and targeting recognition, serving as ideal ligands to link or position building blocks during the self‐assembly process. Self‐assembly is a common technique for the organization of prefabricated and discrete nanoparticle blocks for the construction of extremely sophisticated nanocomposites. To this end, the integration of DNA nanotechnology with Au nanomaterials, followed by assembly of DNA‐functionalized Au nanomaterials can form novel functional Au nanomaterials that are difficult to obtain through conventional methods. Here, recent progress in DNA‐assembled Au nanostructures of various shapes is summarized, and their functions are discussed. The fabrication strategies that employ DNA for the self‐assembly of Au nanostructures, including dimers, tetramers, satellites, nanochains, and other nanostructures with more complex geometric configurations are first described. Then, the characteristic optical properties and applications of biosensing, bioimaging, drug delivery, and therapy are discussed. Finally, the remaining challenges and prospects are elucidated.
Understanding Microscopic Operating Mechanisms of a van der Waals Planar Ferroelectric Memristor
Authors: Gabel Matthew , Gu Yi
Published: December 2020

Ferroelectric memristors represent a promising new generation of devices that have a wide range of applications in memory, digital information processing, and neuromorphic computing. Recently, van der Waals ferroelectric In2Se3 with unique interlinked out‐of‐plane and in‐plane polarizations has enabled multidirectional resistance switching, providing unprecedented flexibility in planar and vertical device integrations. However, the operating mechanisms of these devices have remained unclear. Here, through the demonstration of van der Waals In2Se3‐based planar ferroelectric memristors with the device resistance continuously tunable over three orders of magnitude, and by correlating device resistance states, ferroelectric domain configurations, and surface electric potential, the studies reveal that the resistive switching is controlled by the multidomain formations and the associated energy barriers between domains, as opposed to the commonly assumed Schottky barrier modulations at the metal‐ferroelectric interface. The findings reveal new device physics through elucidating the microscopic operating mechanisms of this new generation of devices, and provide a critical guide for future device development and integration efforts.
Redox Targeting‐Based Thermally Regenerative Electrochemical Cycle Flow Cell for Enhanced Low‐Grade Heat Harnessing
Authors: Zhang Hang , Zhang Feifei , Yu Juezhi , Zhou Mingyue , Luo Wei , Lee Yann Mei , Si Mayan , Wang Qing
Published: December 2020

A large amount of low‐grade heat (<100 °C) is produced in electrical devices and mostly wasted. This type of heat without effective dissipation also causes compromised device performance, reliability, and lifespan. To tackle these issues, a redox targeting (RT)‐based flow cell with judiciously designed thermoelectrically active redox materials is demonstrated for the first time for efficient heat‐to‐electricity conversion through a thermally regenerative electrochemical cycle (TREC). Compared with the conventional TREC systems, the RT‐based flow cell not only reveals considerably enhanced thermoelectric efficiency, but the flow of redox fluids also provides a cooling function to the system. In this work, solid material Ni0.2Co0.8(OH)2 and redox mediator [Fe(CN)6]4−/3−, both of which have negative temperature coefficient and share identical redox potential, are paired via RT‐reactions to boost the capacity and meanwhile thermoelectric efficiency of a [Fe(CN)6]4−/3−/Zn0/2+‐based flow cell. Upon operating over the TREC cycle, the RT‐based flow cell converts heat to electricity at an unprecedented absolute thermoelectric efficiency of 3.61% in the temperature range of 25–55 °C.
Tm3+/Cr3+ Codoped Dual‐Phase Transparent Glass‐Ceramics for Light Conversion in Photosynthesis
Authors: Chen Qinpeng , Cai Zhenlu , Pan Qiwen , Dong Guoping
Published: December 2020

To improve the utilization efficiency of chlorophyll to sunlight, Tm3+/Cr3+ codoped dual‐phase glass‐ceramics are successfully fabricated as a dual‐light conversion material by the conventional melt‐quenching technique with subsequent heat treatment. Exploiting the radius difference in atomic size, Tm3+ and Cr3+ ions have been rationally designed entering into the NaYF4 and NaAlSiO4 crystal phase, respectively, to avoid detrimental energy quenching. The resulted dual‐phase glass‐ceramics exhibit a great emission enhancement compared to the precursor glass. No obvious lifetime degradation in the codoped glass‐ceramic further proves the successful incorporation of Tm3+ and Cr3+ in distinguished crystalline phases. Utilizing the dual‐phase glass‐ceramics, the useless sunlight can be converted into the desired red/blue region and reabsorbed by the chlorophyll. The Tm3+ ions convert ultraviolet light into the blue region, and the Cr3+ ions transfer green light to the red emission. With the utilization of Tm3+/Cr3+ codoped dual‐phase glass‐ceramics in the greenhouse, the photosynthesis process can be promoted, and furthermore, the production of crops can be improved, indicating the potential applications in the field of green agriculture.
Multifunctional Nanostructure RAP‐RL Rescues Alzheimer's Cognitive Deficits through Remodeling the Neurovascular Unit
Authors: Zhang Qian , Song Qingxiang , Gu Xiao , Zheng Mengna , Wang Antian , Jiang Gan , Huang Meng , Chen Huan , Qiu Yu , Bo Bin , Tong Shanbao , Shao Rong , Li Binyin , Wang Gang , Wang Hao , Hu Yongbo , Chen Hongzhuan , Gao Xiaoling
Published: December 2020

Cerebrovascular dysfunction characterized by the neurovascular unit (NVU) impairment contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, a cerebrovascular‐targeting multifunctional lipoprotein‐biomimetic nanostructure (RAP‐RL) constituted with an antagonist peptide (RAP) of receptor for advanced glycation end‐products (RAGE), monosialotetrahexosyl ganglioside, and apolipoprotein E3 is developed to recover the functional NVU and normalize the cerebral vasculature. RAP‐RL accumulates along the cerebral microvasculature through the specific binding of RAP to RAGE, which is overexpressed on cerebral endothelial cells in AD. It effectively accelerates the clearance of perivascular Aβ, normalizes the morphology and functions of cerebrovasculature, and restores the structural integrity and functions of NVU. RAP‐RL markedly rescues the spatial learning and memory in APP/PS1 mice. Collectively, this study demonstrates the potential of the multifunctional nanostructure RAP‐RL as a disease‐modifying modality for AD treatment and provides the proof of concept that remodeling the functional NVU may represent a promising therapeutic approach toward effective intervention of AD.
Lifetime prevalence of mental illness and incarceration: An analysis by gender and Indigenous status
Authors: Stewart Anna , Ogilvie James M. , Thompson Carleen , Dennison Susan , Allard Troy , Kisely Steve , Broidy Lisa
Published: December 2020

Individuals with mental illness are overrepresented in custodial settings. We examine the overlap between incarceration and diagnosed mental illness in a population‐based cohort born in Queensland in 1990. Data were extracted when the cohort was 23 or 24 years old. The population included 44,952 individuals (6.3 per cent Indigenous Australians, 45.8 per cent male), of which 1.5 per cent (n = 690) had at least one custodial sentence, and 6.1 per cent (n = 2,723) had at least one inpatient mental health diagnosis. Most individuals (91.5 per cent) with a mental health diagnosis did not have a custodial sentence. However, a substantial proportion of individuals (33.6 per cent) with a custodial sentence also had an inpatient mental health diagnosis. When examined by gender and Indigenous status, clear patterns emerged. Indigenous Australians were overrepresented in both the mental health and prison systems. Females with a custodial sentence were more likely than males to have a mental health diagnosis. Our analysis highlights the vulnerability of individuals with mental illness within the prison system.
A Functional Chemiluminescent Probe for in Vivo Imaging of Natural Killer Cell Activity Against Tumours
Authors: Scott Jamie I. , Gutkin Sara , Green Ori , Thompson Emily J. , Kitamura Takanori , Shabat Doron , Vendrell Marc
Published: December 2020

Natural killer (NK) cells are immune cells that can kill certain types of cancer cells. Adoptive transfer of NK cells represents a promising immunotherapy for malignant tumours; however, there is a lack of methods to validate anti‐tumour activity of NK cells in vivo. Herein, we report a new chemiluminescent probe to image in situ the granzyme B‐mediated killing activity of NK cells against cancer cells. We have optimised a granzyme B‐specific construct using an activatable phenoxydioxetane reporter so that enzymatic cleavage of the probe results in bright chemiluminescence. The probe shows high selectivity for active granzyme B over other proteases and higher signal‐to‐noise ratios than commercial fluorophores. Finally, we demonstrate that the probe can detect NK cell activity in mouse models, being the first chemiluminescent probe for in vivo imaging of NK cell activity in live tumours.
Synthesis, molecular docking, and biological activities of new cyanopyridine derivatives containing phenylurea
Authors: Gezegen Hayreddin , Gürdere Meliha B. , Dinçer Ayşegül , Özbek Oğuz , Koçyiğit Ümit M. , Taslimi Parham , Tüzün Burak , Budak Yakup , Ceylan Mustafa
Published: December 2020

A new class of cyanopyridine derivatives (10a–eand11a–e) containing the phenylurea unit was synthesized and tested against some metabolic enzymes including acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and α‐glycosidase (α‐Gly). The new cyanopyridine derivatives showedKivalues in the range of 40.73 ± 6.54 to 87.05 ± 16.98 µM against AChE, 29.17 ± 4.88 to 124.03 ± 22.43 µM against BChE, and 3.66 ± 0.93 to 26.33 ± 5.05 µM against α‐Gly. These inhibition effects were compared with standard enzyme inhibitors like tacrine (for AChE and BChE) and acarbose (for α‐Gly). Also, these cyanopyridine derivatives with the best inhibition score were docked into the active site of the indicated metabolic enzymes. Finally, molecular docking calculations were made to compare the biological activities of the compounds against AChE (−8.81 kcal/mol for molecule11d), BChE (−3.52 kcal/mol for molecule11d), and α‐Gly (−2.98 kcal/mol for molecule11a). After molecular docking calculations, the ADME/T analysis was performed to examine the future drug use properties of the new cyanopyridine derivatives containing phenylurea.
Investigation of tyrosinase enzyme (from mushroom) inhibitory activities and antioxidant properties of new fluorine‐containing phthalocyanines
Authors: Farajzadeh Nazli , Sağlam Özgül , Akin Mustafa , Saki Neslihan , Koçak Makbule B.
Published: December 2020

A series of new peripherally or nonperipherally substituted phthalocyanines bearing 4‐(trifluoromethoxy)thiophenyl groups was synthesized. In addition, a new metal‐free phthalocyanine bearing 4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenoxy on the nonperipheral position was prepared. The resulting phthalocyanines were characterized using some spectroscopic techniques such as1H nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV–Vis spectroscopy, together with elemental analysis. When the tyrosinase enzyme inhibition activities of the synthesized phthalocyanines were examined, molecules2band3bshowed an inhibitory activity against the enzyme with IC50values of 176.2 ± 0.65 and 284.4 ± 1.03, respectively. The inhibition types of the molecules and standard inhibitor kojic acid were found as competitive for2b, mixed for1band kojic acid, and uncompetitive for3b. Antioxidant activities were also assessed by using 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and reducing power assays, and the molecules showed moderate antioxidant activities.
Shape‐Induced Kinetics Enhancement in Layered P2‐Na0.67Ni0.33Mn0.67O2 Porous Microcuboids Enables High Energy/Power Sodium‐Ion Full Battery
Authors: Peng Bo , Sun Zhihao , Zhao Liping , Zeng Suyuan , Zhang Genqiang
Published: December 2020

P2‐type Na0.67Ni0.33Mn0.67O2 cathode material generally suffers from poor cycling and rate performance due to fiercely phase variation and low Na+ diffusion kinetic. Although efforts have been made to promote the electrochemical properties through ionic doping, the specific capacity reduction in most cases since the doped cations are electrochemical inactive cannot be neglected. Recently, some pioneering work have demonstrated that the advanced morphological design could significantly improve Na+ intercalation kinetics. But rare researches devote to improving the electrochemical performance on P2‐type Na0.67Ni0.33Mn0.67O2 through morphological manipulation. Herein, unique one‐dimensional P2‐type Na0.67Ni0.33Mn0.67O2 porous microcuboids with abundantly exposed {010} facets have been well designed via a simple one‐pot strategy. Due to the reasonable material design, it demonstrates unprecedented electrochemical performances. Particularly, it can deliver high rate performance with 122.1 mAh g−1 at 5 C, extraordinary cycle life with a capacity retention of 94.6 % after 1500 cycles at 5 C. More importantly, prototype sodium ion full cell could achieve state‐of‐the‐art power density of 1383.1 W kg−1 with high energy density of 84.7 Wh kg−1. The underlying mechanism of enhanced electrochemical properties of this well‐designed material has been deciphered through dynamic analysis, in‐situ X‐ray diffraction and structural analysis after cycling.
A simple method to determine antioxidant status in aromatic plants subjected to drought stress
Authors: Chiappero Julieta , Cappellari Lorena del Rosario , Palermo Tamara Belen , Giordano Walter , Banchio Erika
Published: December 2020

Drought is a major environmental stress factor that affects the growth and development of plants. All plants have to maintain the reactive oxygen species within certain levels for normal cellular homeostasis by means of their antioxidant systems, which can be classified as enzymatic and non‐enzymatic. Plants under drought stress generate an excess production of reactive oxygen species. At high concentrations, this can be detrimental by producing damage to the protein structures and inhibiting enzymes, as well as oxidizing macromolecules, which may eventually lead to cell death. There has been increasing attention paid to the antioxidant capacity of aromatic/medicinal plants, with a high antioxidant content having been reported in some plant extracts, such as in Mentha piperita (peppermint). Peppermint plants cultivated under drought stress also present high levels of phenolic compounds, peroxidase enzyme activity and lipid peroxidation of membranes. A simple and inexpensive laboratory class is proposed for teaching some mechanisms that plants have evolved to avoid reactive oxygen species damage. The series of lab experiments described is aimed at demonstrating the antioxidant status in aromatic plants subjected to drought stress, by measuring total phenolic compound content (non‐enzymatic antioxidant compound), peroxidase activity (enzymatic antioxidant) and malondialdehyde, as convenient biomarkers for lipid peroxidation. The proposed class will be carried out by undergraduate students of the advanced biochemistry course, as part of our biology and agronomy studies. The experiment presented is intended to be used as a vehicle to emphasize the concepts that students have learned in their lectures. This lab exercise to be carried out by the students has dual goals: to apply a methodology only learned superficially on previous courses, and also to increase their understanding of how plants developed resistance mechanisms in order to tolerate drought stress.
Novel Bioactive Polyketides Isolated from Marine Actinomycetes: An Update Review from 2013 to 2019
Authors: Lu Silei , Wang Jiangming , Sheng Ruilong , Fang Yiwen , Guo Ruihua
Published: December 2020

Marine organism‐associated actinobacteria represent a valuable resource for marine drugs due to their abundant secondary metabolites. The special environments in the ocean, for instance, high salt, high pressure, low temperature and oligotrophy, not only adapt to survival of actinomycetes but also enhance molecular diversity of actinomycete secondary metabolites production, thus making marine actinomycetes important sources of marine‐based bioactive compounds, especially polyketides. Herein, we summarized the structures and pharmacological activities of polyketides from actinobacteria associated with marine organisms from 2013 to 2019; moreover, the main source species of actinomycetes were discussed as well. We expected that this review would be helpful for future in‐depth research and development of marine‐based bioactive polyketides.
Ticagrelor monotherapy: When is mono‐antiplatelet therapy (MAPT) equivalent or better?
Authors: Ashley Kellan E. , Hillegass William B.
Published: December 2020

Key Points

Ischemic and bleeding events portend equivalently poor prognosis after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Risk factors for these untoward events largely overlap limiting the “decoupling” of bleeding and ischemic risk.

While individual patient risk scores inform the duration of guideline recommended dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) to strike the optimal balance between ischemic and bleeding risk, a promising additional approach is to tailor the regimens themselves.

In higher risk patients, 1 month of aspirin plus ticagrelor followed by 23 months of ticagrelor monotherapy has equivalent bleeding and numerically improved ischemic risk than standard DAPT for 12 months followed by aspirin monotherapy in the GLOBAL LEADERS trial. In the TWILIGHT study of high ischemic and bleeding risk patients, 12 months of ticagrelor monotherapy had lower bleeding risk with equivalent ischemic risk as DAPT after 3 months of successful DAPT.

Individual risk scores should be developed informing both optimal antiplatelet regimen such as ticagrelor monotherapy and treatment duration after PCI.
Distal (dorsal) radial access: Approaching acceptability for a backdoor approach to the arterial system
Authors: Gilchrist Ian C.
Published: December 2020

Key Points

Published data on distal radial access has increased since its introduction via the Internet several years ago.

Based on reports of over 4,000 procedures the success with the distal radial approach appears to be similar to that of tradition radial when good pulses are available.

The distal radial approach may have advantages with preservation of radial artery function after catheterization.