bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracavity dynamics-based gain-assisted sensing with microtubule Raman microlaser
Authors: Li Mingfang , Dai Zongren , Tian Mingwang , Tan Yidong
Published: August 2023

Microcavity lasers show excellent performance as a miniaturized microsensor in various applications. However, their relatively weak power may be easily submerged in system noises and disturbed by environmental fluctuations, rendering them ineffective at detecting small signals for precise sensing. To solve this problem, the laser differential frequency-shift feedback technique is demonstrated in a microtubule Raman laser to achieve the optical gain assistance. When the microlaser is frequency-shift-modulated and returns back to the resonator, the measurement signal can resonate with the laser relaxation oscillation and be significantly enhanced. The intracavity dynamics-based enhancement makes it effective for increasing intensity changes caused by analytes. Small signals that would otherwise be buried in system noises and go undetected can be more easily resolved. In addition, the microsensor reduces the spectral measurement range and offers a way to observe the fast dynamic response. Based on that, a measurement resolution of 50 nm nanoparticle detection limit and a refractive index noise-limited resolution of 8.18 × 10−7 refractive index unit (RIU) are demonstrated. The dynamic phase transition of thermosensitive hydrogel is further investigated as a validation of its rapid detection capability. Integrated with an inherent microfluidic channel, the proposed microsensor provides a direct interaction between analytes and probe light with ultrasmall sample consumption down to 50 pl. It is expected to boost the detection of weak signals in microlasers and enlighten the development of optofluidic microsensors in exploring diverse biochemical processes.
Critical transition of thermal rectification on complex networks
Authors: Xiong Kezhao , Zhou Man , Liu Wei , Zeng Chunhua , Yan Zhengxin
Published: August 2023

Thermal rectification is a mechanism that controls the direction of heat conduction, allowing it to flow freely in one direction and hindering it in the opposite direction. In this study, we propose a heat conduction model on a complex network where the node masses are non-uniformly distributed according to mi∼kiα. Our findings show that the existence of a critical point, α=1, determines the working mode of thermal rectification. For α>1, the working mode of thermal rectification is positive, whereas for α<1, the working mode is negative. Additionally, we discovered that this critical transition is a general phenomenon and does not vary with changes in network size, average degree, or degree distribution. By conducting theoretical analyses based on phonon spectra, we also identified the physical mechanism of the critical transition. These results provide a new approach to implement and enrich thermal diodes, opening up new possibilities for more efficient thermal management.
Perfect pulse filtering under simultaneous incidence at the same frequencies with waveform-selective metasurfaces
Authors: Takimoto Kairi , Takeshita Hiroki , Fathnan Ashif Aminulloh , Anzai Daisuke , Sugiura Shinya , Wakatsuchi Hiroki
Published: August 2023

We present a new concept of metasurface filters to preferentially extract pulsed waveforms at a constant frequency from a complex superimposed input signal. This filtering capability is realized using circuit-based metasurfaces, denoted waveform-selective metasurfaces, that behave according to the pulse duration of the incident wave. Importantly, our metasurface filters overcome a long-lasting issue of eliminating unnecessary pulses under simultaneous incidence without relying on variables that are commonly used for modulation schemes, e.g., frequency, time, and spatial variation (angular dependence). Such simultaneous filtering is made possible by integrating several types of waveform-selective metasurface unit cells with delay lines and successive interference cancellation processes. Moreover, we show that our concept can be extended to incorporating broadband signals, additional pulses, and variables used for existing modulation schemes. Our study therefore provides a higher degree of freedom to control electromagnetic waves and phenomena with possible applications including wireless power transfer and communications.
Piezoelectric altermagnetism and spin-valley polarization in Janus monolayer Cr2SO
Authors: Guo San-Dong , Guo Xiao-Shu , Cheng Kai , Wang Ke , Ang Yee Sin
Published: August 2023

Altermagnetism can achieve spin-split bands in collinear symmetry-compensated antiferromagnets. Here, we predict altermagnetic order in Janus monolayer Cr2SO with eliminated inversion symmetry, which can realize the combination of piezoelectricity and altermagnetism in a two-dimensional (2D) material, namely, 2D piezoelectric altermagnetism. It is found that Cr2SO is an altermagnetic semiconductor, and the spin-split bands of both valence and conduction bands are near the Fermi level. The Cr2SO has large out-of-plane piezoelectricity (|d31| = 0.97 pm/V), which is highly desirable for ultrathin piezoelectric device application. Due to spin-valley locking, both spin and valley can be polarized by simply breaking the corresponding crystal symmetry with uniaxial strain. Our findings provide a platform to integrate spin, piezoelectricity, and valley in a single material, which is useful for multi-functional device applications.
Semiconductor applications of Yb2O3: Constructing heterojunction solar-blind UV photodetectors with graphene
Authors: Yang Xiaolong , Lin Jun , Huang Shiya , Lin Xiuyu , Xie Yuanyu , Yan Fengpo , Zheng Wei , Kong Xiangzeng , Hu Qichang
Published: August 2023

Exploring the semiconductor materials with suitable gap and chemical stability is the key to developing solar-blind ultraviolet photodetectors with high stability, responsivity, and detectivity. However, available materials are limited currently, hindering the development of solar-blind detectors greatly. Rare earth oxides (Yb2O3) have the bandgap and high-dielectric constants suitable for solar-blind detection, but its potential of being applied to broadband gap semiconductors has not been deeply studied. Therefore, to activate the semiconductor characteristics of Yb2O3, this work builds a p-Gr/i-Yb2O3/n-Si heterojunction solar-blind ultraviolet photodetector by introducing single-layer graphene. Through tests, this device has an absorption cutoff wavelength of 271 nm, which can almost cover the entire solar-blind ultraviolet band, and a high responsivity of 9.78 mA/W under 0 V bias with the rise and fall time as short as 87 and 73 ms, respectively. This work not only prepares a high-performance solar-blind UV photodetector but also presents the potential application of Yb2O3 in the solar-blind ultraviolet light detection. The high-dielectric performance of rare earth oxides makes it expected to be used for the photoelectric chip unit in future integrated circuit.
Effect of rf driving frequency on peripheral high energy electrons in a magnetically expanding plasma reactor
Authors: Nakul Thanatith , Nakahama Yugo , Takahashi Kazunori
Published: August 2023

Two operational rf driving frequencies of 2 and 13.56 MHz are employed in a 14-cm-diameter radio frequency (rf) plasma source under an expanding magnetic field. The changes in the radial profiles of the ion saturation current and the electron temperature are observed in the magnetically expanding plasma when changing the driving frequency. Peripheral high temperature electrons are detected for the higher frequency case, which is consistent with previous studies, implying a localized electron heating in the radially outer region near the antenna and a transport along the magnetic field. However, it disappears when lowering the rf driving frequency, which would be due to an increase in a skin depth. Therefore, the present results demonstrate that the rf power would be absorbed in radially outer and entire regions of the discharge tube for the higher and lower rf driving frequency cases, respectively. As a result of the ionization induced by the peripheral high temperature electrons in the expanding magnetic field, the density in the expanding magnetic field for the 13.56 MHz case is higher than the 2 MHz case, resulting in the larger thrust as measured by a pendulum target technique.
Optical manipulation of linear magnetogyrotropic photogalvanic effect in a GaAs/Al0.3Ga0.7As heterostructure
Authors: Ma Hui , Zhu Yaojie , Bai Ruixue , Zhang Xilin , Liu Yulun , Xiao Nanhai , Xie Chenxue , Ren Yanbo , Cheng Xiaoyu , Chen Yonghai , Jiang Chongyun
Published: August 2023

Electric detection of spin currents is critical for integrating spintronic devices into charge-based semiconductor chips and systems. The magnetogyrotropic photogalvanic effect (MPGE) converts spin current into charge current through spin–orbit coupling in the presence of an in-plane magnetic field. A giant MPGE photocurrent implies either a large spin current or high spin-to-charge conversion efficiency, whichever is important for future spintronic devices. In this Letter, we report on the MPGE photocurrents excited by linearly polarized near-infrared radiation in a GaAs/Al0.3Ga0.7As heterostructure, which are increased by up to five times by an additional visible light with adjustable power. We present a theoretical model and suggest that the optical manipulation of the linear MPGE photocurrent is primarily attributed to the spin current tuned by the momentum relaxation time and spin splittings.
Integrating the United Nations’ sustainable development goals into a teaching–research nexus: examples from the University of the Sunshine Coast
Authors: Kurtböke D. İ.
Published: August 2023

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015 constitute a ‘universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity’. The 17 SDGs are integrated and target the development of ‘balance social, economic and environmental sustainability’ and recognise that ‘action in one area will affect outcomes in others’. ‘The creativity, knowhow, technology and financial resources’ from every sector of the society are required for timely delivery of the SDGs. The major contributor into the generation of such ‘creativity, knowhow and technology’ are the higher education institutions (HEIs). This article will emphasise the roles of HEIs for the timely delivery of the SDGs with examples from the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC).
Climate oscillation impacts on water supply augmentation planning
Authors: Fletcher Sarah , Zaniolo Marta , Zhang Mofan , Lickley Megan
Published: August 2023

Climate oscillations ranging from years to decades drive precipitation variability in many river basins globally. As a result, many regions will require new water infrastructure investments to maintain reliable water supply. However, current adaptation approaches focus on long-term trends, preparing for average climate conditions at mid- or end-of-century. The impact of climate oscillations, which bring prolonged and variable but temporary dry periods, on water supply augmentation needs is unknown. Current approaches for theory development in nature-society systems are limited in their ability to realistically capture the impacts of climate oscillations on water supply. Here, we develop an approach to build middle-range theory on how common climate oscillations affect low-cost, reliable water supply augmentation strategies. We extract contrasting climate oscillation patterns across sub-Saharan Africa and study their impacts on a generic water supply system. Our approach integrates climate model projections, nonstationary signal processing, stochastic weather generation, and reinforcement learning–based advances in stochastic dynamic control. We find that longer climate oscillations often require greater water supply augmentation capacity but benefit more from dynamic approaches. Therefore, in settings with the adaptive capacity to revisit planning decisions frequently, longer climate oscillations do not require greater capacity. By building theory on the relationship between climate oscillations and least-cost reliable water supply augmentation, our findings can help planners target scarce resources and guide water technology and policy innovation. This approach can be used to support climate adaptation planning across large spatial scales in sectors impacted by climate variability.
Unveiling the underestimated direct emissions of nitrous acid (HONO)
Authors: Zhang Qian , Liu Pengfei , Wang Yan , George Christian , Chen Tianshu , Ma Shuyi , Ren Yangang , Mu Yujing , Song Min , Herrmann Hartmut , Mellouki Abdelwahid , Chen Jianmin , Yue Yang , Zhao Xiaoxi , Wang Shuguang , Zeng Yang
Published: August 2023

Gaseous nitrous acid (HONO) is a critical source of hydroxyl radicals (OH) in the troposphere. While both direct and secondary sources contribute to atmospheric HONO, direct emissions have traditionally been considered minor contributors. In this study, we developed δ15N and δ18O isotopic fingerprints to identify six direct HONO emission sources and conducted a 1-y case study on the isotopic composition of atmospheric HONO at rural and urban sites. Interestingly, we identified that livestock farming is a previously overlooked direct source of HONO and determined its HONO to ammonia (NH3) emission ratio. Additionally, our results revealed that spatial and temporal variations in atmospheric HONO isotopic composition can be partially attributed to direct emissions. Through a detailed HONO budget analysis incorporating agricultural sources, we found that direct HONO emissions accounted for 39~45% of HONO production in rural areas across different seasons. The findings were further confirmed by chemistry transport model simulations, highlighting the significance of direct HONO emissions and their impact on air quality in the North China Plain. These findings provide compelling evidence that direct HONO emissions play a more substantial role in contributing to atmospheric HONO than previously believed. Moreover, the δ15N and δ18O isotopic fingerprints developed in this study may serve as a valuable tool for further research on the atmospheric chemistry of reactive nitrogen gases.
Glucocorticoids regulate lipid mediator networks by reciprocal modulation of 15-lipoxygenase isoforms affecting inflammation resolution
Authors: Rao Zhigang , Brunner Elena , Giszas Benjamin , Iyer-Bierhoff Aishwarya , Gerstmeier Jana , Börner Friedemann , Jordan Paul M. , Pace Simona , Meyer Katharina P. L. , Hofstetter Robert K. , Merk Daniel , Paulenz Christian , Heinzel Thorsten , Grunert Philip C. , Stallmach Andreas , Serhan Charles N. , Werner Markus , Werz Oliver
Published: August 2023

Glucocorticoids (GC) are potent anti-inflammatory agents, broadly used to treat acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, e.g., critically ill COVID-19 patients or patients with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. GC not only limit inflammation but also promote its resolution although the underlying mechanisms are obscure. Here, we reveal reciprocal regulation of 15-lipoxygenase (LOX) isoform expression in human monocyte/macrophage lineages by GC with respective consequences for the biosynthesis of specialized proresolving mediators (SPM) and their 15-LOX-derived monohydroxylated precursors (mono-15-OH). Dexamethasone robustly up-regulated pre-mRNA, mRNA, and protein levels of ALOX15B/15-LOX-2 in blood monocyte–derived macrophage (MDM) phenotypes, causing elevated SPM and mono-15-OH production in inflammatory cell types. In sharp contrast, dexamethasone blocked ALOX15/15-LOX-1 expression and impaired SPM formation in proresolving M2-MDM. These dexamethasone actions were mimicked by prednisolone and hydrocortisone but not by progesterone, and they were counteracted by the GC receptor (GR) antagonist RU486. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays revealed robust GR recruitment to a putative enhancer region within intron 3 of the ALOX15B gene but not to the transcription start site. Knockdown of 15-LOX-2 in M1-MDM abolished GC-induced SPM formation and mono-15-OH production. Finally, ALOX15B/15-LOX-2 upregulation was evident in human monocytes from patients with GC-treated COVID-19 or patients with IBD. Our findings may explain the proresolving GC actions and offer opportunities for optimizing GC pharmacotherapy and proresolving mediator production.
The spread of interferon-γ in melanomas is highly spatially confined, driving nongenetic variability in tumor cells
Authors: Centofanti Edoardo , Wang Chad , Iyer Sandhya , Krichevsky Oleg , Oyler-Yaniv Alon , Oyler-Yaniv Jennifer
Published: August 2023

Interferon-γ (IFNγ) is a critical antitumor cytokine that has varied effects on different cell types. The global effect of IFNγ in the tumor depends on which cells it acts upon and the spatial extent of its spread. Reported measurements of IFNγ spread vary dramatically in different contexts, ranging from nearest-neighbor signaling to perfusion throughout the entire tumor. Here, we apply theoretical considerations to experiments both in vitro and in vivo to study the spread of IFNγ in melanomas. We observe spatially confined niches of IFNγ signaling in 3-D mouse melanoma cultures and human tumors that generate cellular heterogeneity in gene expression and alter the susceptibility of affected cells to T cell killing. Widespread IFNγ signaling only occurs when niches overlap due to high local densities of IFNγ-producing T cells. We measured length scales of ~30 to 40 μm for IFNγ spread in B16 mouse melanoma cultures and human primary cutaneous melanoma. Our results are consistent with IFNγ spread being governed by a simple diffusion-consumption model and offer insight into how the spatial organization of T cells contributes to intratumor heterogeneity in inflammatory signaling, gene expression, and immune-mediated clearance. Solid tumors are often viewed as collections of diverse cellular “neighborhoods”: Our work provides a general explanation for such nongenetic cellular variability due to confinement in the spread of immune mediators.
Controlling swelling in mixed transport polymers through alkyl side-chain physical cross-linking
Authors: Siemons Nicholas , Pearce Drew , Yu Hang , Tuladhar Sachetan M. , LeCroy Garrett S. , Sheelamanthula Rajendar , Hallani Rawad K. , Salleo Alberto , McCulloch Iain , Giovannitti Alexander , Frost Jarvist M. , Nelson Jenny
Published: August 2023

Semiconducting conjugated polymers bearing glycol side chains can simultaneously transport both electronic and ionic charges with high charge mobilities, making them ideal electrode materials for a range of bioelectronic devices. However, heavily glycolated conjugated polymer films have been observed to swell irreversibly when subjected to an electrochemical bias in an aqueous electrolyte. The excessive swelling can lead to the degradation of their microstructure, and subsequently reduced device performance. An effective strategy to control polymer film swelling is to copolymerize glycolated repeat units with a fraction of monomers bearing alkyl side chains, although the microscopic mechanism that constrains swelling is unknown. Here we investigate, experimentally and computationally, a series of archetypal mixed transporting copolymers with varying ratios of glycolated and alkylated repeat units. Experimentally we observe that exchanging 10% of the glycol side chains for alkyl leads to significantly reduced film swelling and an increase in electrochemical stability. Through molecular dynamics simulation of the amorphous phase of the materials, we observe the formation of polymer networks mediated by alkyl side-chain interactions. When in the presence of water, the network becomes increasingly connected, counteracting the volumetric expansion of the polymer film.
Diversity in the International Journal of Forensic Mental Health
Authors: Nijdam-Jones Alicia , Cortvriendt Jordan , Daffern Michael
Published: August 2023

In this article, we evaluate the extent to which the International Journal of Forensic Mental Health addresses and incorporates discussion of diversity constructs in its publications. Five years of publishing data from 582 manuscript submissions and 164 published articles were reviewed and coded for the inclusion of several diversity constructs (i.e., sex or gender, race or ethnicity, country, age, culture), how these constructs were included in the research (i.e., part of the hypothesis/aims of the study), and the countries the authors and participants represented. Results indicate that most article submissions, authors, and participant samples came from Europe, North America, and Oceania, and these regions had higher acceptance rates. Most articles included studies of clinical populations, and many authors’ primary affiliations were forensic mental health or correctional services. Less than a third of the article titles and over half of the article abstracts mentioned one of the diversity constructs examined. This is somewhat promising and tells us that the journal is publishing articles reporting and examining aspects of diversity in their samples. However, we argue more can be done. Future research and recommendations for the next steps in improving diversity, equity, and inclusiveness in the publication processes and publications are outlined.
Tribological aspects of magnesium matrix composites: A review of recent experimental studies
Authors: Aydın Fatih
Published: August 2023

The demand for magnesium (Mg) alloys is increasing in many industries, such as automotive and aerospace, thanks to their low density and high specific strength. However, the poor tribological performance of Mg alloys is one of the most important disadvantages that limit their widespread use. Researchers have developed different approaches to improve the wear performance of Mg alloys, such as alloying, coatings, surface modifications and composite production. Wear performance of systems with sliding parts are crucial for a lifetime and energy efficiency. The development of Mg matrix composites can significantly reduce energy loss by reducing damage from friction and wear. For this reason, it is crucial to understand the wear behaviour of recent Mg matrix composites. The effect of different parameters such as load, sliding speed, reinforcement content, reinforcement type and temperature on the wear performance of Mg matrix composites were investigated.
Gliding photonic topological edge waves
Authors: Zhou Xue , Tong Jinye , Chang Jie , Xu Zhixia
Published: August 2023

Topological edge waves exist in the infinitely thin domain wall between two photonic crystals (PhCs) with opposite Berry phases. Compared to conventional waveguides that are prone to backscattering, edge waves under topological protection show robustness against localized defects. However, the influence brought by the structural glide is not fully understood. In this work, we investigate the change of topological edge waves by gliding the PhCs. We study two groups of valley edge constructions as examples. The transmission bandwidth, wave velocity, intrinsic losses and robustness are functions of the glide parameter. We fabricated samples and conducted experiments in the microwave regime, and measured results that matched well with the full-wave simulations. Our research indicates that glide-symmetric dislocation is an essential degree of freedom to manipulate topological edge waves.
Ultralow lattice thermal conductivity in bulk and monolayer TlCuSe: a comparative study from first-principles
Authors: Xia Qiong , Xu Zhiyuan , Hu Lei , Liu Yushen , Gao Guoying
Published: August 2023

Layered TlCuSe was experimentally found to possess ultralow lattice thermal conductivity due to the weak chemical bond and the strong anharmonicity, however, there is an imaginary frequency in the calculated phonon spectrum based on density functional theory (DFT) (Lin et al 2021 Adv. Mater. 33 2104908). Herein, using DFT + U (Coulomb interaction) and phonon Boltzmann transport theory, we demonstrate that the Coulomb interaction can effectively eliminate the imaginary frequency of the phonon spectrum for both bulk and monolayer TlCuSe. The lattice thermal conductivity can be further decreased from bulk (0.43 W m−1K−1 in-plane at 300 K) to monolayer (0.35 W m−1K−1 at 300 K), which comes from the competition between the increased phonon group velocity and the decreased phonon relaxation time. The larger Grüneisen parameters and phase space volume of the monolayer compared to the bulk indicate an enhanced anharmonicity, leading to a low phonon relaxation time and dominating the decreasing lattice thermal conductivity. The present work highlights the indispensability of Coulomb interaction when exploring the phonon transport. The ultralow lattice thermal conductivity of TlCuSe, especially in the form of monolayers, suggests promising thermoelectric applications.
Reflection-type transparent metamaterial polarization rotator with ultra-wide bandwidth
Authors: Li Lintao , Wen Jingda , Wang Yichen , Jin Yue , Wen Yongzheng , Sun Jingbo , Zhao Qian , Bo Li , Zhou Ji
Published: August 2023

Polarization is the most fundamental property of electromagnetic waves and the key to control its propagation, while conventional methods can only achieve polarization conversion in narrowband and lack of optical transparency. In this paper, we design an ultra-broadband transparent polarization converter consisting of a surface-etched indium tin oxide (ITO)-polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resonator, a laser-cut polymethyl methacrylate layer, and an ITO-PET substrate bonded together. The structure simulation can achieve the co-polarization reflection coefficient less than −10 dB in 13.1–32.3 GHz. Then, we analyze the conversion mechanism from electric field, magnetic field, and surface current distribution. Moreover, the actual test performance achieves polarization conversion over 90% at 11.5–25.2 GHz with wide-angle incidence performance and visible light transmittance up to 53%. The excellent performance of this structure provides a new idea for the future design of ultra-broadband transparent polarization converters and expands the application of polarization converters in optical fields such as RF.
Error suppression method of SINS/CNS integrated navigation based on diametrical stargazing
Authors: Xu Zhihao , Zhou Zhaofa , Pang Shaolong , Chang Zhenjun , Liang Zhe
Published: August 2023

The strap-down inertial navigation system (SINS)/celestial navigation system (CNS) integrated navigation system has been extensively employed in the aerospace field owing to its unique advantages. The internal parameter errors of the star sensor constitute one of the primary factors that affect the navigation accuracy. In this paper, an error suppression method based on diametrical stargazing has been designed to suppress the navigation errors caused by the internal parameter errors of the star sensor. First, a SINS/CNS integrated navigation model based on Kalman filter has been established. Then the influence of the principal point error, image-plane tilt error, and distortions of the optical system on the measurement accuracy of the star sensor have been analyzed. Further, the process of introducing the errors into the measurement equation has been obtained. Finally, for multiple errors, two stargazing methods have been designed to suppress the impact of these errors on the navigation accuracy, whereas the constant errors of the inertial device can be modulated. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method can improve the positioning accuracy of the system, and verify the effectiveness of the algorithm.
A reinforcement double deep Q-network with prioritised experience replay for rolling bearing fault diagnosis
Authors: Li Zhenning , Jiang Hongkai , Liu Yunpeng
Published: August 2023

In recent years, deep learning has been increasingly applied to fault diagnosis and has attracted significant attention and research interest. Deep reinforcement learning (RL), with its capabilities in feature extraction and interactive learning, is highly suitable for fault diagnosis problems because it can acquire knowledge solely via system feedback. Despite its advantages, this method also has limitations, such as low training efficiency and unstable performance. Therefore, this study presents a novel diagnostic approach based on system feedback for rolling bearing fault diagnosis. This approach builds upon the original deep Q-network (DQN) approach, which incorporates an interactive dual network structure and experience replay optimisation for RL intelligence. This method introduces two major improvements. First, a dual network cyclic update scheme is implemented, assigning each dual network specific responsibilities to ensure training stability. Second, a novel experience playback system is introduced, which improves the efficiency of experience utilisation while circumventing the risk of overfitting. Compared with the original DQN method, the proposed approach and its two enhancement strategies provide significant advances in training efficiency, stability and diagnostic accuracy. Our experimental results indicate that this novel methodology has the potential to make valuable contributions in the area of rotating machinery fault diagnosis.
Vibrational resonance in a multistable system with position-dependent mass
Authors: Roy-Layinde T O , Omoteso K A , Kolebaje O T , Ogunmefun F O , Fasasi R A , Laoye J A , Vincent U E
Published: August 2023

The occurrence of vibrational resonance (VR) in a dual-frequency-driven multistable system with a spatially varying mass modelling particle with position-dependent mass (PDM) and evolving in a one-dimensional symmetric periodic potential has been investigated and reported in this paper. We numerically compute and analyze the response amplitude, the effects of the PDM parameters (m
0, a) on the potential structure, the occurrence of VR and the bifurcation of the equilibrium points. It is shown that the PDM parameters, besides controlling VR, can induce unconventional resonance patterns through the variation of the potential well depth. The resonant states can be influenced through the cooperation of the PDM parameters and the external forcing leading the system from multiresonance state into single and double resonance states. The contributions of the fixed rest mass m
0 on the VR and the PDM-induced resonance are determined by threshold conditions imposed by the magnitude of the mass nonlinear strength a.
Lower bound on the spread of valley splitting in Si/SiGe quantum wells induced by atomic rearrangement at the interface
Authors: Wang 王 Gang 刚 , Guan 管 Shan 闪 , Song 宋 Zhi-Gang 志刚 , Luo 骆 Jun-Wei 军委
Published: August 2023

The achievement of universal quantum computing critically relies on scalability. However, ensuring the necessary uniformity for scalable silicon electron spin qubits poses a significant challenge due to the considerable fluctuations in valley splitting energy (E
VS) across quantum dot arrays, which impede the initialization of qubit systems comprising multiple spins and give rise to spin–valley entanglement resulting in the loss of spin information. These E
VS fluctuations have been attributed to variations in the in-plane averaged alloy concentration along the confinement direction of Si/SiGe quantum wells. In this study, employing atomistic pseudopotential calculations, we unveil a significant spectrum of E
VS even in the absence of such concentration fluctuations. This spectrum represents the lower limit of the wide range of E
VS observed in numerous Si/SiGe quantum devices. By constructing simplified interface atomic step models, we analytically demonstrate that the lower bound of the E
VS spread originates from the in-plane random distribution of Si and Ge atoms within SiGe barriers — an inherent characteristic that has been previously overlooked. Additionally, we propose an interface engineering approach to mitigate the in-plane randomness-induced fluctuations in E
VS by inserting a few monolayers of pure Ge barrier at the Si/SiGe interface. Our findings provide valuable insights into the critical role of in-plane randomness in determining E
VS in Si/SiGe quantum devices and offer reliable methods to enhance the feasibility of scalable Si-based spin qubits.
Study on the FeCoCrNiMnTix High Entropy Alloys Fabricated by Laser Cladding
Authors: Zhang Yuanbin , Zhang Meisheng , Wu Zhihong , Zhang Ping , Zhai Tongguang
Published: August 2023

Because of the high entropy effect, a simple solid solution structure can be obtained in high entropy alloys (HEAs), giving the HEAs greater overall properties than conventional alloys. Cladding layers of FeCoCrNiMnTix HEAs were prepared on Q355 steel by laser cladding technology. X-ray diffraction (XRD), metallographic microscope (OM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to examine the microstructure of the cladding layers. The microhardness and wear resistance were tested using a Vickers microhardness tester and wear testing machine, respectively. The FeCoCrNiMn HEAs consisted of a face-centered cubic (FCC) solid solution. The addition of Ti promoted the formation of body-centered cubic (BCC) and hexagonal solid solution. When Ti content was higher than x=0.8, the Laves phase formed. The addition of Ti increased the microhardness of the FeCoCrNiMnTix (x=0.5, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0) HEAs, which is due to the effect of solution strengthening, microstructure strengthening, and grain refinement. When Ti content was less than x=0.6, the alloy’s wear resistance was positively correlated with its hardness, and the Ti0.6 alloy had the best wear resistance. However, as Ti content exceeded x=0.6, the brittle and hard Laves phase formed, which resulted in reduced wear resistance.
Analyticity Results in Bernoulli Percolation
Authors: Georgakopoulos Agelos , Panagiotis Christoforos
Published: August 2023

We prove that for Bernoulli percolation on

Z

d

\mathbb {Z}^d

,

d
≥
2

d\geq 2

, the percolation density is an analytic function of the parameter in the supercritical interval. For this we introduce some techniques that have further implications. In particular, we prove that the susceptibility is analytic in the subcritical interval for all transitive short- or long-range models, and that

p
c

b
o
n
d

>
1

/

2

p_c^{bond} >1/2

for certain families of triangulations for which Benjamini & Schramm conjectured that

p
c

s
i
t
e

≤
1

/

2

p_c^{site} \leq 1/2

.
Categorization Theory
Authors: Clair Judith A. , Struzska-Tyamayev Mary M.
Published: August 2023

Categorization, the process of placing or separating into classes or groups, is a socially meaningful process and has been studied across a variety of disciplines, including the organizational studies field. Organizational scholars have focused on implications of social categorization (classification of another person as part of a group in organizational life), self-categorization (identifying the self as part of a group or category), and, increasingly, categorization systems (the norms and structures shaping and legitimizing the categories themselves) for individuals, group functioning, and organizational outcomes. All three elements are interconnected, as how one categorizes the self is linked to how one is socially categorized by others in organizational life, while categorization systems used in organizations provide the context for this process.

Categorization, in its various forms, plays a key role in diversity and inclusion dynamics within organizations, as it can have positive and negative consequences. Among the most discussed negative outcomes is the potential for categorization to serve as a precursor to interpersonal or systemic forms of bias in organizations. Once categorized, a person may experience stigmatization or work discrimination based on the category assigned. Categorization is associated with unique forms of bias; for instance, if one is perceived to be a-prototypical for a category (e.g., a poor fit), the person may resultingly experience social penalties or work-based negative consequences for not exemplifying the group’s core qualities well enough. In turn, this can generate negative personal and interpersonal effects at work and undermine organizational efforts to build inclusion. For instance, if one does not fit a “leader” prototype well enough, they may have a more difficult time claiming the role of leader. However, categorization also allows for the individual and organizational creation of meaning and understanding of the social world, group cohesion, interpersonal congruence, and ultimately the coordination and structuring of institutional diversity and inclusion efforts.

There are many avenues for advancing understandings of categorization and its effects. In particular, opportunities are rich for studies that explore implications of a growing number of people with intersected, multiple, and/or non-normative categories at work and in organizations. The growth of more complex categories has implications at multiple levels of analysis—for people, group functioning, and organizations seeking to build a more inclusive workplace. Also, with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and computerization, categories drawn upon and the processes of categorization, and their implications, are intimately linked to nonhuman forces. There are ample opportunities for organizational research in this domain, a chance to explore and understand the subject beyond the bounds of traditional computing disciplines.
Examining Challenges and Possibilities in the Objective of a Decolonized Education
Authors: Moncrieffe Marlon Lee
Published: August 2023

This article examines challenges and possibilities in the objective of a decolonized education. Beginning with key referents to the term decolonized education, this article then provides a unique presentation of decolonizing the education of Eurocentric knowledge created through colonialism, empire, and racism. This process is shown as enacted through a decolonial consciousness framed by a historical, social, cultural, intellectual, emotional, and political disposition which takes action to reverse colonial knowledge. The article applies this decolonial consciousness in a review and analysis of the intergenerational educational experiences of migrant 20th-century African Caribbean people across the United Kingdom, and the ethnogenesis of their Black British children in the face of a White British-centric school system of epistemic inequality. The article provides a critical review on the challenges and possibilities in advocating for decolonized education for the greater inclusion of Black British experiences against national curriculum policy discourses given by U.K. government over the last few decades. The critical focal point of the article is on the aims and contents of the primary school history curriculum and the uncritical teaching and learning perspectives in the delivery of this curriculum. Challenges to decolonizing education and curriculum teaching and learning are presented, discussed, and analyzed through U.K. conservative/liberal democrat coalition government curriculum reforms of 2013 centered on restoring education and curriculum teaching and learning through an ethnic nationalist monocultural version of British national identity (whiteness) at the expense of multiculturalism (cultural diversity). This curriculum hierarchy of whiteness is contrasted by presentation and analysis of evidence-based research that decenters curriculum whiteness. Following this discussion is a review and analysis of debates and discussions in the U.K. Parliament held in 2020, forced by heightened public appeals for a decolonized curriculum. Finally, this article concludes by reviewing examples of continued professional development in teacher education and research that seeks to advance and extend decolonial praxis.
Liability and Patent Protection for Space Activities in China
Authors: Wang Guoyu , Ma Xiao
Published: August 2023

Space tort and patent protection are becoming more and more urgent legal issues, in light of rapidly developing space technology and commercialization of space activities. China’s space industry and activities have witnessed rapid progress recently, yet the development of China’s national space law system lags far behind China’s other achievements in space. Existing space laws in China have not expressly stipulated space tort and patent protection. Thus, addressing these issues has to resort to the relevant rules in other national laws or legal documents to recognize and confirm the doctrines of space tort liability, mitigation or exemption of liability, assignment and protection of space patents, etc. Therefore, the two main tasks or topics for the Chinese space law community are defining the applicability of the general rules and establishing a systematic national space law regime. The national space law regime will need to address the uncertainties, loopholes, and insufficiencies in the existing legal system regarding space tort and space patent protection. National tribunals, researchers, lawmakers, and policymakers will require references and guidance for dealing with space tort and patent protection. Meanwhile, international academia and practitioners need to better understand Chinese laws related to space activities, in order to facilitate international cooperation and the settlement of disputes.
Glasser, Paul
Authors: Sanchez Mayers Raymond , Pottick Kathleen J.
Published: August 2023

Paul H. Glasser worked tirelessly for more than 50 years as a social worker, social work educator, and social work administrator in schools of social work. He is best known for his writings on social group work while at the University of Michigan where he served as a professor. He helped to develop a theoretical and conceptual framework for group work and saw it as integral to social work itself. He was a dean at two schools of social work where he was able to increase faculty diversity and productivity.
StarPep Toolbox: an open-source software to assist chemical space analysis of bioactive peptides and their functions using complex networks
Authors: Aguilera-Mendoza Longendri , Ayala-Ruano Sebastián , Martinez-Rios Felix , Chavez Edgar , García-Jacas César R , Brizuela Carlos A , Marrero-Ponce Yovani
Published: August 2023

Motivation

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are promising molecules to treat infectious diseases caused by multi-drug resistance pathogens, some types of cancer, and other conditions. Computer-aided strategies are efficient tools for the high-throughput screening of AMPs.

Results

This report highlights StarPep Toolbox, an open-source and user-friendly software to study the bioactive chemical space of AMPs using complex network-based representations, clustering, and similarity-searching models. The novelty of this research lies in the combination of network science and similarity-searching techniques, distinguishing it from conventional methods based on machine learning and other computational approaches. The network-based representation of the AMP chemical space presents promising opportunities for peptide drug repurposing, development, and optimization. This approach could serve as a baseline for the discovery of a new generation of therapeutics peptides.

Availability and implementation

All underlying code and installation files are accessible through GitHub (https://github.com/Grupo-Medicina-Molecular-y-Traslacional/StarPep) under the Apache 2.0 license.
Aspects of human uterine creatine metabolism during the menstrual cycle and at term pregnancy
Authors: Philip Mamatha , Snow Rodney J , Della Gatta Paul A , Callahan Damien L , Bellofiore Nadia , Salamonsen Lois A , Palmer Kirsten R , Ellery Stacey J
Published: August 2023

Creatine metabolism likely contributes to energy homeostasis in the human uterus, but whether this organ synthesizes creatine and whether creatine metabolism is adjusted throughout the menstrual cycle and with pregnancy are largely unknown. This study determined endometrial protein expression of creatine-synthesizing enzymes arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (AGAT) and guanidinoacetate methyltransferase (GAMT), creatine kinase (CKBB), and the creatine transporter (SLC6A8) throughout the menstrual cycle in fertile and primary infertile women. It also characterized creatine metabolism at term pregnancy, measuring aspects of creatine metabolism in myometrial and decidual tissue. In endometrial samples, AGAT, GAMT, SLC6A8, and CKBB were expressed in glandular and luminal epithelial cells. Except for SLC6A8, the other proteins were also located in stromal cells. Irrespective of fertility, AGAT, GAMT, and SLC6A8 high-intensity immunohistochemical staining was greatest in the early secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. During the proliferative phase, staining for SLC6A8 protein was greater (P = 0.01) in the primary infertile compared with the fertile group. Both layers of the term pregnant uterus contained creatine, phosphocreatine, guanidinoacetic acid, arginine, glycine, and methionine; detectable gene and protein expression of AGAT, GAMT, CKBB, and ubiquitous mitochondrial CK (uMt-CK); and gene expression of SLC6A8. The proteins AGAT, GAMT, CKBB, and SLC6A8 were uniformly distributed in the myometrium and localized to the decidual glands. In conclusion, endometrial tissue has the capacity to produce creatine and its capacity is highest around the time of fertilization and implantation. Both layers of the term pregnant uterus also contained all the enzymatic machinery and substrates of creatine metabolism.
Resident cutaneous memory T cells: a clinical review of their role in chronic inflammatory dermatoses and potential as therapeutic targets
Authors: Pham James P , Wark Kirsty J L , Woods Jane , Frew John W
Published: August 2023

Resident memory T cells (T-RMs) remain in epithelial barrier tissues after antigen exposure and the initial effector phase. These T-RMs provide effective antimicrobial and anticancer immunity; however, pathogenic T-RMs have been shown to mediate various chronic inflammatory disorders in a variety of tissue types. In the skin, T-RMs are referred to as resident cutaneous memory T cells (cT-RMs). Understanding the mechanisms leading to the development and establishment of these cT-RMs populations may allow for targeted treatments that provide durable responses in chronic immune-mediated skin diseases, even after cessation. In this review, we summarize the evidence on cT-RMs as drivers of chronic inflammatory dermatoses, including psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, cutaneous lupus erythematosus and alopecia areata, among others. Data from in vitro, animal model and ex vivo human studies are presented, with a focus on the potential for cT-RMs to trigger acute disease flares, as well as recurrent disease, by establishing an immune ‘memory’ in the skin. Furthermore, the available data on the potential for existing and novel treatments to affect the development or survival of cT-RMs in the skin are synthesized. The data suggest a dynamic and rapidly growing area in the field of dermatology; however, we also discuss areas in need of greater research to allow for optimal treatment selection for long-term disease control.