bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A theoretical model of thermo-dynamic interpretation for the Pettit effect and associated heat transport processes
Authors: Cui Nai-Yi
Published: January 2020

Based on several fundamental preassumptions, a one-dimensional convection-diffusion equation for heat transport inside liquid wedges causing the Pettit effect is proposed. With a hot or cold thermode placed at the middle of the liquid wedge, the average temperature of the liquid wedge determined from the convection-diffusion equation proposed shows a maximum, which corresponds to a particular liquid flow rate. The state achieved at this maximum temperature is believed to be the most stable for its minimum interfacial energy. The theory suggests a thermodynamic mechanism, which drives the liquid to flow in directions corresponding to those observed in experiments. It is believed that this work improves the thermodynamic interpretation proposed previously since the new-form convection-diffusion equation is more rigorously deduced and is thus more accurate. In addition, the work also presents a detailed theoretical analysis for heat transport. The results show that, in practical situations, the manifested heat-transport behaviors of a liquid wedge are governed by conductive heat transfer because convective heat flow is self-balancing due to the restriction by the law of mass conservation. Meanwhile, based on the asymmetric features of the conductive heat flows transiting within two different halves of the liquid wedge, a closed-loop formed by connecting a hot-thermode-driven liquid wedge and a cold-thermode-driven liquid wedge is proposed such that a hot thermode-cold thermode loop can lead to controllable heat transfer with which targeted heating or cooling may be realized. The effect may reveal the technical principles upon which novel small-size thermal engines, pumps, heaters, and coolers can be built.
Experimental investigation of turbulent flow in a rotating straight channel with continuous ribs
Authors: Li Haiwang , You Haoliang , You Ruquan , Tao Zhi
Published: January 2020

We experimentally study the combined effects of continuous ribs and rotations constructed in a square duct on the turbulent flows and flow separation. The ribs obstruct the channel by 10% of its height and are arranged in three different pitch-to-height ratios (P/e) of 10, 12, and 15. The Reynolds number (Re = ρU0D/μ) is fixed at 10 000, and the rotation number (Ro = ΩD/U0) varies from 0 to 0.52. A time-resolved particle image velocimetry system is applied to provide insights into the main flow and turbulence mechanism. Results show that rotation significantly changes main flow and turbulent characteristics. In particular, a main flow phenomenon has been found: on account of the secondary flow near the ribs, velocity profile deflects to the leading side under a low rotation number, and when Ro rises to 0.48 (critical value), velocity profile deflects to the trailing side. It gives an insight into main flow in a ribbed channel. Reattachment law has been investigated, which can optimize heat transfer by optimize rib arrangement. A proper orthogonal decomposition analysis is also considered to identify the spatial characteristics of the superimposed flow fields. Based on the experimental data, the existence of ribs with different P/e ratios and Coriolis forces play significant roles in rib-generated vortices as well as their turbulent activities.
Mixed mass of classical Rayleigh-Taylor mixing at arbitrary density ratios
Authors: Zhang You-sheng , Ruan Yu-cang , Xie Han-song , Tian Bao-lin
Published: January 2020

The accurate prediction of mixed mass induced by turbulent Rayleigh-Taylor mixing is of fundamental importance for many natural phenomena and engineering applications; however, no quantitative theory based on it has been established yet. In this study, we establish a quantitative theory to predict its evolution at arbitrary density ratios by combining the theory of density-ratio-invariant mean species profiles, which was recently developed by us, and the closure model for the turbulent fluctuations presented in this letter. The transformation formula between mixed mass and mixing width is obtained; in addition, the quantitative variation of normalized mixed mass with respect to the density ratio is derived. The theoretical results agreed very well with the direct numerical simulations at varied density ratios. The study sheds light on the quantitative prediction of mixed mass in practical engineering applications such as inertial confinement fusion.
Residual stress effect governing electromigration-based free-standing metallic micro/nanowire growth behavior
Authors: Kimura Yasuhiro , Ju Yang
Published: January 2020

In this study, the effect of residual stress in a film on the growth behavior of a free-standing metallic micro/nanowire due to electromigration (EM) is examined. The growth of a wire is accompanied by atomic diffusion, accumulation of atoms, and release of compressive EM-induced localized hydrostatic stress due to the accumulation of atoms. Hence, the growth of the wire dominantly depends on the EM-induced localized stress caused by the accumulation of atoms. Because rigid passivation generates a strong localized stress field in the metallic interconnect, with greater accumulation of atoms, the EM-induced localized stress state for wire growth is influenced by passivation conditions, including the thickness and residual stress associated with passivation. Two samples with different passivation thicknesses, resulting in different levels of residual stress, were used to elucidate the influence of passivation conditions on the growth performance of Al microwires. The growth rate was experimentally measured. An x-ray diffraction system was used to obtain the value of residual stress in passivation, demonstrating that a higher absolute value of compressive residual stress results in a lower growth rate. In contrast, a lower absolute value increases the growth rate of the wire and can decrease the delamination risk of the topmost passivation, deposited by sputtering. Contrarily, a passivation that is too thin, resulting in a lower absolute value of compressive stress, increases the risk of passivation crack due to the accumulation of atoms by EM. A suitable passivation thickness for a desired wire growth must be determined based on this finding.
Comprehensive investigation of the triplet state electronic structure of free-base 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin by a combined advanced EPR and theoretical approach
Authors: Barbon Antonio , Dal Farra Maria Giulia , Ciuti Susanna , Albertini Marco , Bolzonello Luca , Orian Laura , Di Valentin Marilena
Published: January 2020

The nature of the photoexcited triplet state of free-base 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin (H2TPPS4−) has been investigated by advanced Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) techniques combined with quantum chemical calculations. The zero-field splitting (ZFS) parameters, D and E, the orientation of the transition dipole moment in the ZFS tensor frame, and the proton hyperfine couplings have been determined by magnetophotoselection-EPR and pulse electron-nuclear double resonance spectroscopy. Both time-resolved and pulse experiments exploit the electron spin polarization of the photoexcited triplet state. Comparison of the magnetic observables with computational results, including CASSCF calculations of the ZFS interaction tensor, provides an accurate picture of the triplet-state electronic structure. The theoretical investigation has been integrated with a systematic analysis on the parent free-base porphyrin molecule to assess the effect of the sulfonatophenyl substituents on the magnetic tensors. Additionally, the magnetophotoselection effects are discussed in terms of tautomerization in the excited singlet state of H2TPPS4−.
Small droplet bouncing on a deep pool
Authors: Wu Zhihu , Hao Jiguang , Lu Jie , Xu Long , Hu Gengkai , Floryan J. M.
Published: January 2020

Droplet bouncing on liquid surfaces frequently occurs for low-Weber-number impacts. Previous studies typically used large droplets with oscillation initiated by their creation process but without determining the effects of these oscillations. Here, we use small droplets, providing the means to reduce oscillations to show that the probability of the droplet bounce does not depend on the droplet oscillations. The time from the moment of contact to the maximum penetration depth was found to be independent of the Weber number for droplets of fixed diameter but increased with an increase in diameter. Both the maximum penetration depth and the maximum rebound height increased monotonically with the Weber number. A simple model predicting the maximum penetration depth was proposed and validated through comparison with experimental data.
Li-diffusion at the interface between Li-metal and [Pyr14][TFSI]-ionic liquid: Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Merinov Boris V. , Naserifar Saber , Zybin Sergey V. , Morozov Sergey , Goddard William A. , Lee Jinuk , Lee Jae Hyun , Han Hyea Eun , Choi Young Cheol , Kim Seung Ha
Published: January 2020

We previously reported comprehensive density functional theory-molecular dynamics (DFT-MD) at 400 K to determine the composition and structure of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) between a Li anode and [Pyr14][TFSI] ionic liquid. In this paper, we examined diffusion rates in both the Li-electrode region and SEI compact layer in smaller 83Li/2[TFSI] and larger 164Li/4[TFSI] systems. At 400 K, the Li-diffusion constant in the Li-region is 1.35 × 10−10 m2/s for 83Li/2[TFSI] and 5.64 × 10−10 m2/s for 164Li/4[TFSI], while for the SEI it is 0.33 × 10−10 m2/s and 0.22 × 10−10 m2/s, thus about one order slower in the SEI compared to the Li-region. This Li-diffusion is dominated by hopping from the neighbor shell of one F or O to the neighbor shell of another. Comparing the Li-diffusion at different temperatures, we find that the activation energy is 0.03 and 0.11 eV for the Li-region in the smaller and larger systems, respectively, while for the SEI it is 0.09 and 0.06 eV.
Immiscible liquid-liquid displacement flows in a Hele-Shaw cell including shear thinning effects
Authors: Varges P. R. , Azevedo P. E. , Fonseca B. S. , de Souza Mendes P. R. , Naccache M. F. , Martins A. L.
Published: January 2020

We experimentally studied the viscous fingering instability considering a Newtonian oil displacing viscoelastic shear-thinning liquids and vice versa. The non-Newtonian liquids are aqueous solutions of polyacrylamide and xanthan gum, i.e., flexible and rigid polymers, respectively. A rectangular Hele-Shaw cell, connected by two plenum chambers, was developed to evaluate the displacement of a fixed volume. The experiment consists of analyzing the interface time evolution through a digital camera as a function of the geometric, dynamic, and rheological parameters. The displacement efficiency was determined through image processing in order to identify the formation of fingers or plugs. Unlike the Newtonian case, the transition does not occur when the viscosity ratio is roughly equal to one, but nevertheless, it was observed that the stability of the interface depends on the viscosity ratio. Specifically, more branches are observed at low viscosity ratios. Furthermore, a higher stability is observed when the Newtonian liquid displaces the shear thinning liquid, especially when the polymer is more rigid. When the Newtonian liquid is being displaced, elastic effects favor the displacing efficiency.
Charge reduced nanoparticles by sub-kHz ac electrohydrodynamic atomization toward drug delivery applications
Authors: Dau Van Thanh , Nguyen Tuan-Khoa , Dao Dzung Viet
Published: January 2020

In this Letter, we present an electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) technology that generates and delivers charge reduced nanoparticles to open space without a collector electrode. The backward ring-nozzle ac EHDA system driven at sub-kHz frequencies generates alternatively charged particles, which exert electric force and recombine in the vicinity of the spraying electrode. This unique configuration creates a stable jet stream of charge reduced nanoparticles, contrary to classical dc EHDA systems. Experiments indicate that nanoparticles are emitted through a wide range of voltages and frequencies, matching up to the hydrodynamic time of the cone jet model. These unique advantages of the new system would empower the nanoparticle EHDA devices for aerosol drug delivery in bio and health care applications.
Optimizing contrast and spatial resolution in hard x-ray tomography of medically relevant tissues
Authors: Rodgers Griffin , Schulz Georg , Deyhle Hans , Kuo Willy , Rau Christoph , Weitkamp Timm , Müller Bert
Published: January 2020

Hard x-ray tomography with Paganin's widespread single-distance phase retrieval filter improves the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) while reducing spatial resolution (SR). We demonstrate that a Gaussian filter provided larger CNR at high SR with interpretable density measurements for two medically relevant soft tissue samples. Paganin's filter produced larger CNR at low SR, though a priori assumptions were generally false and image quality gains diminish for CNR > 1. Therefore, simple absorption measurements of low-Z specimens combined with Gaussian filtering can provide improved image quality and model-independent density measurements compared to single-distance phase retrieval.
A dominant factor of the cycloreversion reactivity of diarylethene derivatives as revealed by femtosecond time-resolved absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Sotome Hikaru , Une Kanako , Nagasaka Tatsuhiro , Kobatake Seiya , Irie Masahiro , Miyasaka Hiroshi
Published: January 2020

Dynamics of the cycloreversion reaction of a photochromic diarylethene derivative with a small ring-opening reaction yield (∼1%) was investigated by using femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. The reaction rate constant and activation barrier on the reaction coordinate were quantitatively analyzed on the basis of the temperature and excitation wavelength dependencies of the reaction yield and excited state dynamics. From the comparison of the present results with those in a more reactive derivative, we concluded that a key factor regulating the overall reaction yield is the branching ratio at the conical intersection where the excited state population is split into the product and the initial reactant. The excitation wavelength dependence of the dynamics indicated that the geometrical relaxation and vibrational cooling proceed in a few picosecond time scale behind the cycloreversion process, and the vibrational excess energy assists the molecule to climb up the energy barrier.
Correlation between structural phase transition and surface chemical properties of thin film SrRuO3/SrTiO3 (001)
Authors: Kim Dongwoo , Lim Hojoon , Ha Sung Soo , Seo Okkyun , Lee Sung Su , Kim Jinwoo , Kim Ki-jeong , Perez Ramirez Lucia , Gallet Jean-Jacques , Bournel Fabrice , Jo Ji Young , Nemsak Slavomir , Noh Do Young , Mun Bongjin Simon
Published: January 2020

The correlation between the structural phase transition (SPT) and oxygen vacancy in SrRuO3 (SRO) thin films was investigated by in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) and ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AP-XPS). In situ XRD shows that the SPT occurs from a monoclinic SRO phase to a tetragonal SRO phase near ∼200 °C, regardless of the pressure environment. On the other hand, significant core level shifts in both the Ru and Sr photoemission spectra are found under ultrahigh vacuum, but not under the oxygen pressure environment. The directions and behavior of the core level shift of Ru and Sr are attributed to the formation of oxygen vacancy across the SPT temperature of SRO. The analysis of in situ XRD and AP-XPS results provides an evidence for the formation of metastable surface oxide possibly due to the migration of internal oxygen atoms across the SPT temperature, indicating the close relationship between oxygen vacancy and SPT in SRO thin films.
Collective excitations in 2D atomic layers: Recent perspectives
Authors: Cho Yujin , Huang Jiahui , Wong Chee Wei
Published: January 2020

The strong advantage of two-dimensional (2D) materials is that they exhibit interesting physical properties down to the single unit layer (typically less than 1 nm). Such emergent properties are highly dependent on thickness and can be tunable via external parameters such as electric field, pressure, and/or chemical treatment. In addition, most 2D materials have hexagonal crystal structures; thus, it is possible to stack with other 2D materials to enrich the properties. This tunability and compatibility makes 2D materials and their heterostructures promising candidates for optoelectronic devices.
Spreading and penetration of a micro-sized water droplet impacting onto oil layers
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Chenyu , Yu Yude , Chen Xiaodong
Published: January 2020

This paper describes a theoretical and numerical investigation of the impact dynamics and outcomes of a microsized water droplet falling onto an oil layer. The shape of the water droplet floating on the oil layer is predicted theoretically to understand the balancing of the three interfacial tensions. Direct numerical simulations coupled with a three-phase volume-of-fluid method are performed on an axisymmetric model, considering the balancing and motion of the triple-line. The effects of the impact velocity, viscosity ratio of oil and water, height of the oil layer, and the combination of the three interfacial tensions on the impact dynamics and outcomes are systematically studied. Regime diagrams of the nonpenetration and penetration outcomes are obtained under different combinations of the flow and physical parameters. It is found that the balance among the three interfacial tensions is well maintained at the triple-line due to the low capillary number. The maximum horizontal spreading of the water droplet is proportional to the square root of the Weber number when the impact velocity is low. Moreover, the maximum penetration for high impact velocities is independent of the spreading parameter. To understand the lower transition between nonpenetration and penetration, the critical penetration distance at which the triple-line is about to collapse is obtained from simulation results as a function of the spreading parameter, and these indicate weak dependence on the viscosity ratio. A semiempirical model is used to predict the boundary of lower transitions, and these are in good agreement with the simulations results.
Emergence of the giant out-of-plane Rashba effect and tunable nanoscale persistent spin helix in ferroelectric SnTe thin films
Authors: Lee Hosik , Im Jino , Jin Hosub
Published: January 2020

A non-vanishing electric field inside a non-centrosymmetric crystal transforms into a momentum-dependent magnetic field, namely, a spin–orbit field (SOF). SOFs are of great use in spintronics because they enable spin manipulation via the electric field. At the same time, however, spintronic applications are severely limited by the SOF, as electrons traversing the SOF easily lose their spin information. Here, we propose that in-plane ferroelectricity in (001)-oriented SnTe thin films can support both electrical spin controllability and suppression of spin dephasing. The in-plane ferroelectricity produces a unidirectional out-of-plane Rashba SOF that can host a long-lived helical spin mode known as a persistent spin helix (PSH). Through direct coupling between the inversion asymmetry and the SOF, the ferroelectric switching reverses the out-of-plane Rashba SOF, giving rise to a maximally field-tunable PSH. Furthermore, the giant out-of-plane Rashba SOF seen in the SnTe thin films is linked to the nano-sized PSH, potentially reducing spintronic device sizes to the nanoscale. We combine the two ferroelectric-coupled degrees of freedom, longitudinal charge and transverse PSH, to design intersectional electro-spintronic transistors governed by non-volatile ferroelectric switching within nanoscale lateral and atomic-thick vertical dimensions.
Control of interfacial pH in mesoporous silica nanoparticles via surface functionalization
Authors: Singappuli-Arachchige Dilini , Slowing Igor I.
Published: January 2020

The pH at silica-water interfaces (pHint) was measured by grafting a dual emission fluorescent probe (SNARF) onto the surface of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN). The values of pHint of SNARF-MSN suspended in water were different from the pH of the bulk solution (pHbulk). The addition of acid or base to aqueous suspensions of SNARF-MSN induced much larger changes in pHbulk than pHint, indicating that the interface has buffering capacity. Grafting additional organic functional groups onto the surface of SNARF-MSN controls the pHint of its buffering region. The responses of pHint to variations in pHbulk are consistent with the acid/base properties of the surface groups as determined by their pKa and are affected by electrostatic interactions between charged interfacial species as evidenced by the dependence of ζ-potential on pHbulk. Finally, as a proof of principle, we demonstrate that the hydrolysis rate of an acid-sensitive acetal can be controlled by adjusting pHint via suitable functionalization of the MSN surface. Our findings can lead to the development of nanoreactors that protect sensitive species from adverse conditions and tune their chemical reactivity.
Droplet mobilization at the walls of a microfluidic channel
Authors: Yang Guang , Chu Xu , Vaikuntanathan Visakh , Wang Shanshan , Wu Jingyi , Weigand Bernhard , Terzis Alexandros
Published: January 2020

The mechanism of dynamic wetting and the fluid dynamics during the onset of droplet mobilization driven by a microchannel flow are not clearly understood. In this work, we use microparticle tracking velocimetry to visualize the velocity distribution inside the droplet both prior to and during mobilization. Time-averaged and instantaneous velocity vectors are determined using fluorescent microscopy for various capillary numbers. A circulating flow exists inside the droplet at a subcritical capillary number, in which case the droplet is pinned to the channel walls. When the capillary number exceeds a critical value, droplet mobilization occurs, and this process can be divided into two stages. In the first stage, the location of the internal circulation vortex center moves to the rear of the droplet and the droplet deforms, but the contact lines at the top walls remain fixed. In the second stage, the droplet rolls along the solid wall, with fixed contact angles keeping the vortex center in the rear part of the droplet. The critical capillary number for the droplet mobilization is larger for the droplet fluid with a larger viscosity. A force-balance model of the droplet, considering the effect of fluid properties, is formulated to explain the experimental trends of advancing and receding contact angles with the capillary number. Numerical simulations on internal circulations for the pinned droplet indicate that the reversed flow rate, when normalized by the inlet flow rate and the kinematic viscosity ratio of the wetting and nonwetting phases, is independent of the capillary number and the droplet composition.
Structure-based tunable metamaterials for electromagnetically induced transparency windows in low terahertz frequency
Authors: Xu Yafei , Wang Xianqiao , Chen Xuefeng , Zhang Liuyang
Published: January 2020

The electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) metamaterials with active or passive modulation have been extensively studied and applied in slow-light devices, light on-off, and light storage. However, the preparation complexity and characterization difficulties of the EIT metamaterials limit their optoelectronic applications. Here, we have employed a structure-based tunable design to fulfill the passive modulation of EIT metamaterial. We propose a simple but effective EIT structural model composed of a cutting wire and two circular split rings. Through theoretical analysis and computational simulation, it is found that the localized surface plasma and the inductive-capacitive resonance mode coincidently contribute to the EIT effect, giving rise to a narrow transparency window. Moreover, the amplitude of the transparency peak gradually decreases at the same resonance frequency with the increment of the lateral distance between the wire and split ring, while it decreases proportionally with the increment of the radius of the split ring. Interestingly, when the radius continues to increase, the asymmetry of the EIT window aggravates and the second EIT broad transparency window appears, indicating the existence of another intriguing coupling mechanism. Our work unveils a simple and practical modulation strategy for EIT-based multifunctional optical devices and shed light on its potential application on the optical devices.
Review of Scientific Instruments New Products
Authors: Mandelis Andreas
Published: January 2020

In order to supplement manufacturers’ information, this department will welcome the submission by our readers of brief communications reporting measurements on the physical properties of materials that supersede earlier data or suggest new research applications.
Hepatic neddylation targets and stabilizes electron transfer flavoproteins to facilitate fatty acid β-oxidation
Authors: Zhang Xueying , Zhang Yao-Lin , Qiu Guihua , Pian Lili , Guo Lu , Cao Huanling , Liu Jian , Zhao Yawei , Li Xin , Xu Zhe , Huang Xiaofeng , Huang Jingru , Dong Jie , Shen Beifen , Wang Hong-Xia , Ying Xiaomin , Zhang Weiping J. , Cao Xuetao , Zhang Jiyan
Published: January 2020

Neddylation is a ubiquitination-like pathway that controls cell survival and proliferation by covalently conjugating NEDD8 to lysines in specific substrate proteins. However, the physiological role of neddylation in mammalian metabolism remains elusive, and no mitochondrial targets have been identified. Here, we report that mouse models with liver-specific deficiency of NEDD8 or ubiquitin-like modifier activating enzyme 3 (UBA3), the catalytic subunit of the NEDD8-activating enzyme, exhibit neonatal death with spontaneous fatty liver as well as hepatic cellular senescence. In particular, liver-specific UBA3 deficiency leads to systemic abnormalities similar to glutaric aciduria type II (GA-II), a rare autosomal recessive inherited fatty acid oxidation disorder resulting from defects in mitochondrial electron transfer flavoproteins (ETFs: ETFA and ETFB) or the corresponding ubiquinone oxidoreductase. Neddylation inhibition by various strategies results in decreased protein levels of ETFs in neonatal livers and embryonic hepatocytes. Hepatic neddylation also enhances ETF expression in adult mice and prevents fasting-induced steatosis and mortality. Interestingly, neddylation is active in hepatic mitochondria. ETFs are neddylation substrates, and neddylation stabilizes ETFs by inhibiting their ubiquitination and degradation. Moreover, certain mutations of ETFs found in GA-II patients hinder the neddylation of these substrates. Taken together, our results reveal substrates for neddylation and add insight into GA-II.
Algal photosynthesis converts nitric oxide into nitrous oxide
Authors: Burlacot Adrien , Richaud Pierre , Gosset Arthur , Li-Beisson Yonghua , Peltier Gilles
Published: January 2020

Nitrous oxide (N
2
O), a potent greenhouse gas in the atmosphere, is produced mostly from aquatic ecosystems, to which algae substantially contribute. However, mechanisms of N
2
O production by photosynthetic organisms are poorly described. Here we show that the green microalga
Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
reduces NO into N
2
O using the photosynthetic electron transport. Through the study of
C. reinhardtii
mutants deficient in flavodiiron proteins (FLVs) or in a cytochrome p450 (CYP55), we show that FLVs contribute to NO reduction in the light, while CYP55 operates in the dark. Both pathways are active when NO is produced in vivo during the reduction of nitrites and participate in NO homeostasis. Furthermore, NO reduction by both pathways is restricted to chlorophytes, organisms particularly abundant in ocean N
2
O-producing hot spots. Our results provide a mechanistic understanding of N
2
O production in eukaryotic phototrophs and represent an important step toward a comprehensive assessment of greenhouse gas emission by aquatic ecosystems.
Multiple sclerosis and bilingualism
Authors: Aveledo Fraibet , Higueras Yolanda , Marinis Theodoros , Bose Arpita , Pliatsikas Christos , Meldaña-Rivera Ariana , Martínez-Ginés María Luisa , García-Domínguez José Manuel , Lozano-Ros Alberto , Cuello Juan Pablo , Goicochea-Briceño Haydee
Published: January 2020

It has been suggested that bilingualism is beneficial for executive control and could have positive long-term effects by
delaying the onset of symptoms of degenerative diseases. This research investigates, for the first time, the impact of bilingualism on
executive control (monitoring and inhibitory control) in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a neurodegenerative disease which
commonly causes deficiencies in the cognitive system. Bilingual and monolingual adults, with and without an MS diagnosis, performed a
flanker task with two degrees of monitoring demands (high monitoring vs. low monitoring). Results showed that bilingual MS patients had
inhibitory control and monitoring abilities that were similar to healthy bilingual controls. In contrast, monolingual MS patients showed
similar inhibitory control but significantly worse monitoring abilities compared to monolingual healthy controls. We propose that the
similar behaviour between bilingual groups suggests that bilingualism might counteract cognitive deficits related to MS, especially with
respect to monitoring. The high monitoring cost observed in monolingual patients seems related to underlying deficits in monitoring and
possibly switching, executive control abilities commonly impaired in MS patients from early stages. Our findings provide some preliminary
evidence for the cognitive reserve hypothesis in bilingual MS patients.
How Do Latin American Professionals Approach Violence Risk Assessment? A Qualitative Exploratory Study
Authors: Nijdam-Jones Alicia , García-López Eric , Aparcero Maria , Rosenfeld Barry
Published: January 2020

The ability to predict the likelihood of violent behavior is an important task that is not constrained by cultures, borders, or geographic regions. This qualitative study analyzed 15 semi-structured interviews with forensic professionals to understand violence risk assessment (VRA) processes and procedures in Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico. Participants reported a range of procedures for assessing violence risk, including the use of structured VRA tools. Most evaluators considered common risk factors, but several culturally relevant risk and protective factors emerged from the interviews. Perceived strengths and limitations of VRA measures were explored. Findings may inform risk assessments with culturally diverse adults.
The colonic macrophage transcription factor RBP-J orchestrates intestinal immunity against bacterial pathogens
Authors: Kang Lan , Zhang Xiang , Ji Liangliang , Kou Tiantian , Smith Sinead M. , Zhao Baohong , Guo Xiaohuan , Pineda-Torra Inés , Wu Li , Hu Xiaoyu
Published: January 2020

Macrophages play pleiotropic roles in maintaining the balance between immune tolerance and inflammatory responses in the gut. Here, we identified transcription factor RBP-J as a crucial regulator of colonic macrophage–mediated immune responses against the enteric pathogen Citrobacter rodentium. In the immune response phase, RBP-J promoted pathogen clearance by enhancing intestinal macrophage-elicited Th17 cell immune responses, which was achieved by maintenance of C/EBPβ-dependent IL-6 production by overcoming miRNA-17∼92–mediated suppressive effects. RBP-J deficiency–associated phenotypes could be genetically corrected by further deleting miRNA-17∼92 in macrophages. In the late phase, noneradicated pathogens in RBP-J KO mice recruited abundant IL-1β–expressing CD64+Ly6C+ colonic macrophages and thereby promoted persistence of ILC3-derived IL-22 to compensate for the impaired innate and adaptive immune responses, leading to ultimate clearance of pathogens. These results demonstrated that colonic macrophage–intrinsic RBP-J dynamically orchestrates intestinal immunity against pathogen infections by interfacing with key immune cells of T and innate lymphoid cell lineages.
Understanding CMB physics through the exploration of exotic cosmological models: a classroom study using CLASS
Authors: Rindler-Daller T
Published: January 2020

Every cosmology lecturer these days is confronted with teaching the modern cosmological standard model ΛCDM, and there are many approaches to do this. However, the danger is imminent that it is presented to students as something set into stone, merely to be accepted as a fact based on the plenty of evidences we have. This is even more critical, given that the standard model of cosmology confronts us with entities not yet fully understood, namely a cosmological constant Λ and cold dark matter. In this article, we report on an advanced cosmology course exercise, conducted in computer lab, which was conceived as a means to have students experience first-hand why the ΛCDM model has become so prevalent in the interpretation of modern cosmological data. To this end, we focused on the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMB) and calculated theoretical temperature and matter power spectra, using the modern Boltzmann code CLASS. By comparing and analyzing the outcome for ΛCDM, as well as for three other exotic cosmological models, the students were able to grasp the impact of cosmological parameters on CMB observables, and also to understand some of the complicated CMB physics in a direct way. Our chosen examples are not exhaustive and can be easily modified or expanded, so we express the hope that this article will serve as a valuable resource for interested students and lecturers.
Achromatic reflected metalens for highly directional and long-distance acoustic probing
Authors: Wang Peifeng , Yu Gaokun , Li Yong , Wang Xinlong , Wang Ning
Published: January 2020

Simultaneous temporal and spatial focusing of a pulse is of significance for detection and imaging. Here, an achromatic reflected metalens is designed using hybrid resonance and anti-resonance. The theoretical result demonstrates that the anti-resonance provides an extra degree of freedom to control local phases of reflected waves, yielding an achromatic lens of thickness equal to one half of central wavelength. To overcome the shortcoming of traditional approach to design lenses (neglecting the intercell coupling), a boundary integral method is proposed to alleviate the focus deviation over a broadband. The achromatic feature of designed lens is then verified in the frequency range from 2800 to 5600 Hz by an experiment. Owing to a very weak frequency dependence of focal point and a high reflected focusing efficiency over a broadband, a highly directional and long-distance acoustic probing scheme (the mainlobe width about 80) is proposed with the aid of achromatic reflected metalens and being confirmed by another experiment, where a signal processing method using triple sensors separated by a subwavelength interval is adopted to eliminate the interferences between incident waves and reflected waves. Our result may find its application in a long-distance underwater acoustic probing.
Quantum codes from neural networks
Authors: Bausch Johannes , Leditzky Felix
Published: January 2020

We examine the usefulness of applying neural networks as a variational state ansatz for many-body quantum systems in the context of quantum information-processing tasks. In the neural network state ansatz, the complex amplitude function of a quantum state is computed by a neural network. The resulting multipartite entanglement structure captured by this ansatz has proven rich enough to describe the ground states and unitary dynamics of various physical systems of interest. In the present paper, we initiate the study of neural network states in quantum information-processing tasks. We demonstrate that neural network states are capable of efficiently representing quantum codes for quantum information transmission and quantum error correction, supplying further evidence for the usefulness of neural network states to describe multipartite entanglement. In particular, we show the following main results: (a) neural network states yield quantum codes with a high coherent information for two important quantum channels, the generalized amplitude damping channel and the dephrasure channel. These codes outperform all other known codes for these channels, and cannot be found using a direct parametrization of the quantum state. (b) For the depolarizing channel, the neural network state ansatz reliably finds the best known codes given by repetition codes. (c) Neural network states can be used to represent absolutely maximally entangled states, a special type of quantum error-correcting codes. In all three cases, the neural network state ansatz provides an efficient and versatile means as a variational parametrization of these highly entangled states.
Magnetic phases of orbital bipartite optical lattices
Authors: Saugmann Pil , Larson Jonas
Published: January 2020

In the Hamburg cold atom experiment with orbital states in an optical lattice, s- and p-orbital atomic states hybridize between neighboring sites. In this work we show how this alternation of sites hosting s- and p-orbital states gives rise to a plethora of different magnetic phases, quantum and classical. We focus on phases whose properties derive from frustration originating from a competition between nearest and next nearest neighboring exchange interactions. The physics of the Mott insulating phase with unit filling is described by an effective spin-1/2 Hamiltonian showing great similarities with the J
1–J
2 model. Based on the knowledge of the J
1–J
2 model, supported by numerical simulations, we discuss the possibility of a quantum spin liquid phase in the present optical lattice system. In the superfluid regime we consider the parameter regime where the s-orbital states can be adiabatically eliminated to give an effective model for the p-orbital atoms. At the mean-field level we derive a generalized classical XY model, and show that it may support maximum frustration. When quantum fluctuations can be disregarded, the ground state should be a spin glass.
Correction factors for primary beta dosimetry
Authors: Behrens R
Published: January 2020

Several correction factors for primary beta dosimetry in radiation protection have been determined by means of measurements and simulations for both the well-known Böhm primary standard extrapolation chamber developed at PTB (which has been commercially available for a long time) and a new primary standard extrapolation chamber also developed at PTB. The correction factors k
el for electrostatic attraction of the entrance window due to the collecting voltage and k
sat for ionisation collection losses due to ionic recombination have been measured. The following correction factors have been determined by simulations for normal (0°) as well as oblique (15°, 30°, 45° and 60°) radiation incidence: k
ba for backscatter from the collecting electrode, k
pe for perturbation by the chamber’s side walls, and k
ra, k
ac and k
di for inhomogeneity inside the collecting volume. The latter three have been combined to k
ih. Six more correction factors adopted from the literature are described to complete the necessary corrections. A comparison with values given in ISO 6980-2:2004 (for 0°), all determined at that time by means of measurements, is shown as well as the application of the new factors to measured data. The newly determined correction factors are ready to be implemented in an updated version of ISO 6980-2.
Why do people ignore the ‘plastic bag diet’ campaign? an Indonesian consumers perspective
Authors: Wijaya B S , Agustini P M , Hanathasia M , Putri D M , Sutawidjaya A H
Published: January 2020

As an effort to minimize the climate change impact, reducing plastic waste is urgently needed. Unfortunately, so far this effort has not yielded maximal results, even though the ‘plastic bag diet’ campaign has been intensified. This paper interrogates the reason why Indonesian consumers/shoppers disregarded and did not even care about the campaign. Using Focus Group Discussion, the authors discussed with two groups of different shoppers, namely the regular shoppers and non-regular shoppers. The discussion is divided into three topics. First, the habit of using plastic shopping bags. Second, awareness of avoiding the use of plastic shopping bags. Third, the possibility to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle. The results show that both regular and non-regular shopper groups do not mind paying 200IDR for plastic shopping bags because it is financially not detrimental, and they are reluctant to bring their shopping bags. Besides being troublesome, some of the participants also considered it old-fashioned. However, non-regular shoppers tend to have an awareness of environmental preservation better than regular shoppers. Therefore, we conclude several factors that cause consumers to ignore ‘plastic bag diet’ campaign, including functional, social, cultural, and structural reasons.
Biotic resistance and rhizobacteria on the growth and yield of selected red onion (Allium ascalonicum L.) variety
Authors: Maryani Y , Rogomulyo R , Widiatmi S , Widata S
Published: January 2020

Red onion has high nutrient and economic value. Onion can grow in both dry and wet season. Currently, we face climate drawbacks such as long rainy seasons and a short dry season due to climate change. This research aims to study the affects of rhizobacteria on the three red onion yield varieties. The research was conducted in Balecatur, Gamping, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The research used a Split Plot Design. The main factor was red onion variety, namely Bima, Biru and Thailand. The sub-factor was Rhizobacteria with a concentration of 0%, 0.75% and 1.5%. The data were analyzed using variance analysis with 5% significance level. The results showed that rhizobacteria increases the growth rate and tolerance index in red onion. Rhizobacteria does not increase yield and red onion yield index. Biru variety was as good as Thailand variety in terms of the number of bulb per plant, weight bulb per plant and yield. Thailand and Biru varieties are suitable in rainy season. Bima variety has the lowest number of bulb per plant, weight bulb per plant, growth rate, yield and yield index.
The application of Refuse Derived Fuel (FDR) from commercial solid wastes to reduce CO2 emissions in the cement industry: a preliminary study
Authors: Kristanto G A , Rachmansyah E
Published: January 2020

One of the issues faced by several cities in Indonesia is the management of their increasing generation of solid wastes. One of the largest waste generators include the commercial area, such as malls, restaurants, office buildings, motels, and others, which need to manage their wastes via more sustainable routes such as the application of these wastes as refuse derived fuel to mitigate the climate change causing by fossil fuel. This study aims to analyse the potential use of wastes generated from commercial areas such as refuse-derived fuel (RDF) in the cement industry for reducing CO2 emissions. Five variants of RDFs were developed on the basis of commercial solid waste compositions. Results revealed that RDF variation 3 comprising 20% paper and 80% plastics exhibits the highest energy of 6272 kcal/kg. As preliminary study, cement industry Y is investigated as an example. During the simulation of the clinker production, RDF variation 3 is combined with petroleum coke, coal, fuel oil, or natural gas. Compared to other fuels, the combination of petroleum coke and RDF variation 3 exhibits the best CO2 reduction of 2, 155.3 106 Kt CO2/year, with the total annual clinker production of 12.64 million tons. These findings should aid policy and decision makers of waste management service provision and industry to design financially viable management systems based on resource recovery options.
Rapid assessment of river watershed health and vulnerability level for restoration strategy: a study of river systems in Indramayu, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Setyoasri Y P , Prastica R M S
Published: January 2020

Climate change triggers a vulnerable level of a watershed. The assessment of watershed was conducted in rivers in Indramayu. Indramayu has terrible water quality due to several factors. The research aims to state the vulnerability level of Indramayu sub-watershed. The research analyzed several locations: Cimanuk sub-river and Muara Kali Prajagumiwang. The river health and vulnerability were assessed according to physical, land use, and water quality indicators in rivers. The other indicators are proposed according to the previous studies to enrich the future study result. The study finds out the possible future indicators: watershed landscape, hydrology, stream geomorphology, aquatic habitat, and biological conditions. The research uses a watershed vulnerability sequential analysis to obtain the result. The study analyzes the parameter, problems, and triggering factors from the sites. The assessment of stream corridor involves the rare species, sensitive fishes, macro-invertebrates availability, fish movement, normalization, water quality, river-land interaction, water spring, and geomorphology. The research concludes that rivers in Indramayu indicate fair and restorable impacted sub-watershed characteristics. This condition indicates that the streams have bad water quality, but they still could support a sustainable environment if it restored.
Agronomic and social strategies on food crop production for climate change adaptation at Palu Valley, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Rahayu H S P , Suwitra I K
Published: January 2020

Climate change has become a threat to the agricultural sector, especially at the farmer level. Adaptation to climate change is now gaining wide attention; however, farmers still have the low adaptive capacity and do not have the essential technology for adaptation to climate change. Such adaptation to climate change is necessary to reduce the risk of losses in the agriculture sector. The study aims to know the perception and adaptation strategies to climate change on farmer level especially in food crop production, then correlated it with government recommendation strategies. A survey had been conducted to farmers in Palu Valley, Central Sulawesi, and a descriptive analysis approach is employed in this research. The findings show that there are challenging issues such as the socialization of meteorological information, a planting calendar application, the dissemination of essential technologies for climate change, and also social aspects such as insurance and indigenous knowledge. A number of recommendations were proposed to ensure the more efficient and beneficial use of technology recommendations in coping with climate change in food crop production. 1) Improving farmer’s knowledge by spreading climate change technologies dissemination. 2) Providing user-oriented features to increase farmer awareness and responses. 3) Enabling different institutions and stakeholders for programs cooperation in coping with climate change challenges.