bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of Ba-rich surface segregation in Ba1-xSrxTiO3 and Ba-rich surfactant in SrTiO3/ Ba1-xSrxTiO3 stacks grown by combinatorial pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Agudelo-Estrada Santiago , Barrett Nick , Lubin Christophe , Wolfman Jérôme , Negulescu Beatrice , Andreazza Pascal , Ruyter Antoine
Published: December 2022

The interface of a La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/SrTiO3 bilayer was modulated by introducing 3 unit cells of Ba1-xSrxTiO3 using Combinatorial Pulsed Laser Deposition. A wide range of chemical compositions was studied within the same sample, with BSTx stoichiometry variable from 0.5 to 1 along Y-axis, while the SrTiO3 overlayer thickness was modified along the X direction [Fig. 1(a)]. We performed high-resolution, laboratory-based angle-resolved XPS studies of the BSTx film surface providing information on the thickness and composition of the surface and sub-surface layers. Based on the attenuation of the La 3d corelevel photoemission signal from the La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 bottom layer, the BST layer is 1.2 nm thick. XPS Ba 3d5/2 core-level spectra were acquired at positions corresponding to different nominal Ba/Sr stoichiometry. In all measurements, the Ba 3d5/2 core-level spectra can be represented by two main components, i.e. one component at higher binding energy (BE = 780.54 eV) corresponding to surface contribution and the other one at lower binding energy (BE = 778.92 eV) corresponding to sub-surface contribution (Figs. 2 and 3). Going from normal to 60° emission angle and using a 3-unit cell thick film model, the surface to sub-surface intensity ratio clearly evolves providing evidence of a Ba-rich surfactant. The surfactant effect is more significant for lower nominal Ba stoichiometry.
Coupling a magnetic bottle multi-electron spectrometer with a liquid micro-jet device: a comprehensive study of solvated sodium benzoate at the O 1 s threshold
Authors: Fournier Marine , Huart Lucie , Dupuy Rémi , Vacheresse Régis , Reinhardt Maximilian , Cubaynes Denis , Céolin Denis , Hervé du Penhoat Marie-Anne , Renault Jean-Philippe , Guigner Jean-Michel , Kumar Ajit , Lutet-Toti Bastien , Bozek John , Ismail Iyas , Journel Loïc , Lablanquie Pascal , Penent Francis , Nicolas Christophe , Palaudoux Jérôme
Published: December 2022

We have developed a magnetic bottle time-of-flight electron-electron coincidence spectrometer to perform measurements on solvated molecules in a liquid micro-jet. We present here the first results obtained after ionization of the oxygen 1s inner-shell of sodium benzoate molecules and show the possibilities to filter out the electron signal arising from the liquid phase from the signal of water molecules in the gas phase. Both photoelectrons and Auger electrons spectra (unfiltered and filtered) are presented.
XPS chemical state mapping in opto- and microelectronics
Authors: Frégnaux Mathieu , Bourlier Yoan , Berini Bruno , Dumont Yves , Aureau Damien
Published: December 2022

The strength of XPS imaging lies in its ability to (i) locate small patterns on sample surface, and (ii) inform, with micrometric lateral resolution, about the chemical environment of the elements detected at the surface. In this context, strontium-based perovskites appear to be well-adapted for such photoemission experiments thanks to their tunability and variability. These functional oxides have great potential for emerging optoand microelectronic applications, especially for transparent conductive oxide. Patterned heterostructure SrTiO3/SrVO3 was grown by pulsed laser deposition using a shadow mask. This stack was then analysed by XPS mapping in serial acquisition mode. Ti2p and V2p core level imaging clearly highlights the SrTiO3 and SrVO3 domains. The XPS mapping of the Sr3d core level will be extensively discussed: strontium being a common element to both oxides with a very similar chemical environment. Despite a lower contrast in Sr3d images, the two materials are discernible thanks to the topography. In addtion, the use of Sr3d FWHM image is a real asset to evidence the two phases. Finally, data processing by principal component analysis allows us to extract significant spectral information on the strontium atoms.
A review of security issues and solutions for precision health in Internet-of-Medical-Things systems
Authors: Li Nan , Xu Minxian , Li Qimeng , Liu Jikui , Bao Shudi , Li Ye , Li Jianzhong , Zheng Hairong
Published: December 2022

Precision medicine provides a holistic perspective of an individual’s health, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle aspects to realize individualized therapy. The development of the internet of things (IoT) devices, the widespread emergence of electronic medical records (EMR), and the rapid progress of cloud computing and artificial intelligence provide an opportunity to collect healthcare big data throughout the lifespan and analyze the disease risk at all stages of life. Thus, the focus of precision medicine is shifting from treatment toward prediction and prevention,i.e., precision health. To this end, various types of data such as omics, imaging, EMR, continuous physiological monitoring, lifestyle, and environmental information, need to be collected, tracked, managed and shared. Thus, internet-of-medical things (IoMT) is crucial for assimilating the health systems, applications, services, and devices that can improve the speed and accuracy of diagnosis and treatments along with real-time monitoring and modification of patient behavior as well as health status. However, security has emerged as a growing concern owing to the proliferation of IoMT devices. The increasing interconnectivity of IoMT-enabled devices with health data reception, transmission, and processing significantly increases the number of potential vulnerabilities within a system. To address the security issues of precision health in IoMT systems, this study reviews the state-of-the-art techniques and schemes from the perspective of a hierarchical system architecture. We present an IoMT system model comprising three layers: the sensing layer, network layer, and cloud infrastructure layer. In particular, we discuss the vulnerabilities and threats to security in each layer and review the existing security techniques and schemes corresponding to the system components along with their functionalities. Owing to the unique nature of biometric features in medical and health services, we highlight the biometrics-based technologies applied in IoMT systems, which contribute toward a considerable difference between the security solutions of existing IoT systems. Furthermore, we summarize the challenges and future research directions of IoMT systems to ensure an improved and more secure future of precision health.
Update nuklearmedizinische Bildgebung von Gehirntumoren und -metastasen
Authors: Langen Karl-Josef , Galldiks Norbert
Published: December 2022

In der Hirntumordiagnostik hat die PET mit radioaktiv markierten Aminosäuren in den
letzten Jahren zunehmend an Bedeutung gewonnen und ist in vielen Zentren bereits als
ergänzendes Diagnoseverfahren neben der MRT etabliert. Die Aminosäure-PET bietet wichtige
Zusatzinformationen bei der diagnostischen Zuordnung unklarer zerebraler Läsionen und eine
verbesserte Darstellung der Tumorausdehnung von zerebralen Gliomen, welche bei der Prognostik
und Therapieplanung wichtige Hilfestellung bieten kann. Des Weiteren kann mit der
Aminosäure-PET sowohl bei Gliomen als auch bei Hirnmetastasen eine Tumorprogression oder
-rezidiv mit hoher Genauigkeit von unspezifischen posttherapeutischen Veränderungen in der MRT
differenziert werden sowie Therapieeffekte zuverlässiger und frühzeitiger beurteilt
werden.
Klinischer Stellenwert der Bildgebung der Neuroinflammation
Authors: Albert Nathalie , Brendel Matthias
Published: December 2022

Die Neuroinflammation ist ein komplexer und dynamischer Prozess, der an zahlreichen
Erkrankungen des Gehirns beteiligt ist, von demyelinisierenden Erkrankungen über
neurodegenerative Erkrankungen, psychiatrische Erkrankungen bis hin zu Hirntumorerkrankungen.
Diagnostisch sind das Vorliegen und Ausmaß der Neuroinflammation mitunter schwer zu erfassen.
In der konventionellen MRT werden Prozesse mit massiver Entzündungsaktivität durch Störungen
der Blut-Hirn-Schranke dargestellt, während inflammatorische Prozesse auf geringerem Level
häufig nicht nachzuweisen sind oder nicht von einem nach abgelaufener Entzündung verbleibenden
Glioseareal zu differenzieren sind. Die PET stellt eine sinnvolle Bildgebungsmethode zur
direkten Darstellung der Neuroinflammation dar, die insbesondere bei der Diagnosestellung,
Prognoseeinschätzung und Therapieantwort inflammatorischer ZNS-Erkrankungen hilfreich sein
kann. Der Artikel soll eine Übersicht über verfügbare Tracer zur Darstellung der
Neuroinflammation geben und den bisherigen klinischen Einsatz sowie die Aussagekraft der
Untersuchungen beleuchten.
Auflistung zu automatisierten Analyseverfahren der nuklearmedizinischen Bildgebung bei neurodegenerativen Krankheiten
Authors: Chaban Artem , Yakushev Igor
Published: December 2022

Automatisierte Analyseverfahren gewinnen in der nuklearmedizinischen Diagnostik von
neurodegenerativen Krankheiten eine zunehmende Bedeutung. Unter automatisierten
Analyseverfahren verstehen wir derzeit insbesondere Programme, Tools und Softwarepakete,
welche auf einer automatisierten Weise einen Vergleich eines Patienten mit einer
Kontrollgruppe durchführen und folglich einen Bericht über statistisch signifikante regionale
Abweichungen erstellen. Das Ziel dieses Artikels ist es eine orientierende Übersicht von
automatisierten Analyseverfahren im Bereich neurodegenerativer Krankheiten zu geben, ohne sie
zu werten und ohne Anspruch auf Vollständigkeit. Die CE-zertifizierten Verfahren sind nach
folgenden Charakteristika beschrieben: verfügbare Kontrolldaten, Möglichkeit der Integration
eigener Kontrolldaten und Darstellung von Ergebnissen als Oberflächenprojektion. Diese
Übersicht könnte hilfreich sein, je nach diagnostischem Spektrum und Ausstattung der
jeweiligen nuklearmedizinischen Klinik eine Vorauswahl an Verfahren zu treffen, welche in der
Diagnostik bei spezifischen Fragestellungen sinnvoll zur Anwendung gebracht werden
könnten.
Einfluss der Dauer kieferorthopädischer Behandlung auf das
subjektive Empfinden der mundgesundheitsbezogenen
Lebensqualität
Authors: Von Spreckelsen Lia , Jagst Carolin , Köneke Andreas
Published: December 2022

Hintergrund Aufgrund der aktuell noch geringen Datenlage war es Ziel
dieser Studie, den Einfluss der Dauer einer kieferorthopädischen
Behandlung auf die mundgesundheitsbezogene Lebensqualität (MLQ) zu
untersuchen.

Methode Die beobachtende, prospektive Längsschnittstudie erfolgte
mit der deutschen Basisversion des Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-G14)
im Zeitraum von 2008–2018. Die MLQ wurde zu drei Zeitpunkten
(T1, T2, T3) bei 598 Patient*innen
innerhalb ihrer kieferorthopädischen Behandlung erhoben und die
Ergebnisse statistisch analysiert. Ein durchschnittlicher Anstieg
(∆OHIP-G14) von>2,00 Punkten wurde als klinisch relevant
(Minimal Important Difference, MID) und Zeichen einer herabgesetzten
mundgesundheitsbezogenen Lebensqualität definiert.

Ergebnisse Von initial 598 eingeschlossenen Patient*innen
füllten 79 ProbandInnen die Fragebögen zu allen drei Zeitpunkten
vollständig aus und konnten in die Studie aufgenommen werden. Das
Durchschnittsalter lag zu Beginn der Behandlung bei 11,5 Jahren
(SD=3,3), am Ende der Behandlung bei 16,3 Jahren (SD=3,1). Die
durchschnittliche Behandlungsdauer betrug 4,7 Jahre (SD=2,3). Ein
Vergleich der erreichten Summenwerte zu den Zeitpunkten T1,
T2, T3 der ernannten Subgruppen (Geschlechter,
Altersgruppen, Behandlungsapparatur und -zeitraum) untereinander zeigte in
keiner der Gruppen signifikante Unterschiede (Mann-Whitney-U-Test,
Kruskal-Wallis-Test, Chi-Quadrat-Test p<0,05). Ein Vergleich der
Gesamtwerte der jeweiligen Zeitpunkte zeigte eine klinisch
(∆OHIP-G14>2,00) und statistisch signifikante Abnahme der MLQ
während der initialen Behandlungsphase (T1 vs. T2,
p<0,001). Die Verbesserung der MLQ am Ende der Behandlung (T2
vs. T3) war statistisch nicht signifikant (p=0,128) und hatte
keine klinische Auswirkung (MID ∆OHIP-G14<2,00). Weitere
Analysen der Behandlungsdauer und der OHIP-Summenwerte ergaben zu keinem
Zeitpunkt signifikante Abhängigkeit oder Korrelation zwischen
Behandlungsdauer und MLQ (β2=− 0,078,
β3=0,191, multiple lineare Regression,
p=0,05; r2=0,073, r3=0,103,
Spearman Korrelation, p=0,05).

Schlussfolgerung Im Vergleich zu T1 war die MLQ während
der Behandlung sowohl zu T2 als auch T3 leicht
herabgesetzt. Es kann jedoch festgestellt werden, dass der Durchschnitt der
erhobenen Summenwerte zu allen drei Zeitpunkten der Befragung (T1,
T2 und T3) im Normbereich der gesunden
Allgemeinbevölkerung lag. Hinsichtlich der Kernfrage dieser Studie
konnte kein Zusammenhang zwischen Behandlungsdauer und MLQ gezeigt werden. Das
Anstreben eines guten Behandlungsergebnisses im Rahmen einer differenzierten
kieferorthopädischen Therapie sollte daher nach Möglichkeit
einem raschen Abschluss der Behandlung vorangestellt werden.
CMD und Kieferorthopädie
Authors: Hitti Mirette , Welte-Jzyk Claudia , Pröbster Lothar , Erbe Christina
Published: December 2022

Die Craniomandibuläre Dysfunktion (CMD) ist mit einer Prävalenz
von über 30% die häufigste chronische Schmerzerkrankung
im Kiefer- Gesichtsbereich. Die Therapie erfordert einen
interdisziplinären, individuell angepassten Behandlungsansatz. Diese
Fallvorstellung soll einen Einblick über das Behandlungskonzept eines
posterior-lateralen Zwangsbisses mit Oberkiefer- Okklusionsschiene und
OK/UK Alignern (Invisalign) geben.
Die kieferorthopädische Behandlung einer komplexen Dysgnathie
mit extremer Eckzahnverlagerung
Authors: Rosier B.
Published: December 2022

Gezeigt wird die Behandlung eines jugendlichen Patienten mit einem komplexen
kieferorthopädischen Befund, mit einer Nonokklusion des ersten
Quadranten und einem im Vestibulum der Mandibula horizontal impaktierten
Eckzahn. Die Behandlung dauerte 3,6 Jahre und wurde mit einer festsitzenden
Apparatur mit 18er Slot Brackets durchgeführt.
CAD/CAM-Workflow bei der Herstellung metallischer
kieferorthopädischer Apparaturen
Authors: Schmid-Herrmann Carmen U. , Pasin Enrico
Published: December 2022

Die CAD/CAM-Technologie wurde in den letzten Jahren enorm
weiterentwickelt und ermöglicht, metallische kieferorthopädische
Apparaturen wie Hyrax-Gaumennahterweiterungsapparaturen, Herbst-Scharniere,
Zungengitter, Transpalatinal- und Lingualbögen mit hoher
Präzision und hohem Patientenkomfort herzustellen. Hierbei
können sowohl additive Verfahren wie der Metallguss (im Anschluss an den
3-D-Druck der Apparatur aus Acrylat-Photopolymer mit Wachsanteil), der
Metalldruck (Laser Sintering/Laser Melting) als auch subtraktive
Verfahren wie die CNC-Frästechnik zur Anwendung kommen. (CAD:
Computer-Aided Design, computerunterstütztes Design, CAM: Computer-Aided
Manufacturing, computerunterstützte Fertigung)
The Journey Through the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Narrative Review
Authors: Boccatonda Andrea , Balletta Marco , Vicari Susanna , Hoxha Ariela , Simioni Paolo , Campello Elena
Published: December 2022

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which may result in several extraintestinal complications (∼20–30% of cases), such as increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). The main pathophysiological mechanism of VTE is an inflammation-induced hypercoagulable state, and recent data have shown that endothelial dysregulation due to gut and systemic inflammation may also lead to a prothrombotic state. Several prothrombotic alterations have been described, such as the activation of the coagulation system, platelet abnormalities, and dysregulation of fibrinolysis. Furthermore, the dysregulation of the gut microbiome seems to play a vital role in increasing systemic inflammation and thus inducing a procoagulant state. Our review aims to examine the main correlations between IBD and VTE, the underlying pathophysiology, and current therapeutic options.
Early Short-Term Use of Different Doses of Corticosteroid in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pneumonia
Authors: Özen Seval , Gülhan Belgin , Yüksek Saliha Kanik , Güney Ahmet Yasin , Erat Tuğba , Yahşi Aysun , Güneş Ömer , Güder Latife , Mustafaoğlu Özlem , Bayraktar Pınar , Üçkardeş Fatih , Emeksiz Serhat , Bayhan Gülsüm İclal , Parlakay Aslınur Özkaya
Published: December 2022

Objective Encouraged by reports of favorable outcomes following the use of corticosteroids in patients with moderate-to-severe coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia, we aimed to present our experience with early short-term corticosteroid use at our center in pediatric patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods One hundred and twenty-nine pediatric patients were included in the study. Patients were divided into four groups according to the type and dose of corticosteroids given: Group 1 (those receiving dexamethasone 0.15 mg/kg/d); Group 2 (those receiving methylprednisolone 1 mg/kg/d); Group 3 (those receiving methylprednisolone 2 mg/kg/d); and Group 4 (those receiving pulse methylprednisolone 10–30 mg/kg/d).

Results Of 129 patients, 19 (14.7%) patients were assigned to Group 1, 30 (23.3%) patients to Group 2, 30 (23.3%) patients to Group 3, and 50 (38.8%) patients to Group 4. Thirty-two (24.8%) patients were followed in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), of whom 13 (10%) required mechanical ventilation, and 7 (%5.4) died. In Group 4, the hospitalization length was significantly longer than in other groups (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). No significant difference was found among the groups in terms of mortality (p = 0.15). The most common comorbidity was obesity (33%). A significant association was found between the presence of comorbidity and mortality (p < 0.001). All patients who died had an underlying disease. Cerebral palsy was the most common underlying disease among the patients who died. Worsening of lymphopenia was significant in patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia at the time of transfer to the PICU (p = 0.011).

Conclusion Although children usually have a milder course of COVID-19 than adults, underlying diseases and obesity increase the severity of disease manifestations also in children. Further studies are needed to define the exact role of corticosteroids in COVID-19 patients.
Development of pulsed magnetic field assisted supersonic plasma spraying
Authors: Wang Zhiyuan , Huang Yanfei , Guo Weiling , He Dongyu , Wang Haidou , Shan Debin , Xing Zhiguo
Published: December 2022

This study designs a pulsed magnetic field assisted supersonic plasma spraying (PM-SPS) device. The instrument is divided into magnetic field generation and spraying modules, and they are connected by a dual control system and professional fixture. The PM-SPS system is simple to operate and has no contact with the spraying process. In addition, it can achieve high field intensity and stable pulse frequency in a short time. It has a strengthening effect on the whole coating forming process. The porosity, roughness, hardness, and tribological properties of the coatings prepared using the PM-SPS system were improved. The reported experiments and results can be generalized to other coating applications, which require high quality surfaces.
Multiple roles of metal–organic framework-based catalysts in photocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Zhang Yaping , Xu Jixiang , Wang Lei , Chen Banglin
Published: December 2022

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction is one of the ideal means to realize the carbon cycle. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have received great attention as catalysts for photocatalytic CO2RR in recent years. The adjustable metal nodes and organic ligands in MOFs make them multifunctional catalysts. Therefore, they can participate in photocatalytic CO2RR in different roles. MOFs can be used as primary photocatalysts or be coupled with other active species to form composite materials. They can also act as co-catalysts to cooperate with photosensitizers. Moreover, MOFs can be used as precursors or templates for the preparation of derived nanomaterials. These derivatives are also promising candidates in photocatalytic CO2RR. This review aims to outline multiple roles of MOFs and their derivatives in photocatalytic CO2RR. Meanwhile, the corresponding modification strategies are summarized. At the end of the manuscript, the present problems of MOFs applied in photocatalytic CO2RR are summarized and the future development and challenges are also proposed.
Research on improved intestinal image classification for LARS based on ResNet
Authors: Zan Peng , Zhong Hua , Zhao Yutong , Xu Huiyan , Hong Rui , Ding Qiao , Yue Jingwei
Published: December 2022

Low anterior rectal resection is an effective way to treat rectal cancer at present, but it is easy to cause low anterior resection syndrome after surgery; so, a comprehensive diagnosis of defecation and pelvic floor function must be carried out. There are few studies on the classification of diagnoses in the field of intestinal diseases. In response to these outstanding problems, this research will focus on the design of the intestinal function diagnosis system and the image processing and classification algorithm of the intestinal wall to verify an efficient fusion method, which can be used to diagnose the intestinal diseases in clinical medicine. The diagnostic system designed in this paper makes up for the singleness of clinical monitoring methods. At the same time, the Res-SVDNet neural network model is used to solve the problems of small intestinal image samples and network overfitting, and achieve efficient fusion diagnosis of intestinal diseases in patients. Different models were used to compare experiments on the constructed datasets to verify the applicability of the Res-SVDNet model in intestinal image classification. The accuracy of the model was 99.54%, which is several percentage points higher than other algorithm models.
Carrier loop with multi-pulse coherent integration for tracking pulsed pseudolite signal
Authors: Liu Kai , Ouyang Runlong , Hu Mei , Guo Xiye , Yang Jun
Published: December 2022

The pseudolite system, an alternative to global navigation satellite systems, can provide centimeter-level positioning accuracy using carrier phase measurements. The carrier phase-based positioning accuracy is determined by the tracking performance of the phase-locked loop (PLL), since cycle slip may cause carrier phase measurement bias. To overcome the near-far problem, the pulsing scheme is often adopted in pseudolite positioning systems. For the pulsed pseudolite signal, the carrier tracking loop is more prone to cycle slip compared to the conventional continuous signal. For improving the performance of the PLL tracking the pulsed pseudolite signal at low carrier-to-noise ratios, a PLL with multi-pulse coherent integration (MPCI-PLL) is proposed. The thermal noise performance of the digital PLL (DPLL) is determined by its equivalent noise bandwidth. When the product of the design noise bandwidth and the loop update interval increases, the true equivalent noise bandwidth of DPLL tends to be larger than the design value. Then, the closed-form expression of the single-sided equivalent noise bandwidth of first-, second-, and third-order DPLL is derived by the discrete frequency domain approach. The proposed MPCI-PLL is tested in both simulations and a real experiment. Compared to the conventional method of tracking the pulsed pseudolite signal, the proposed carrier tracking loop significantly decreases the probability of a cycle slip at low signal-to-noise ratios. Simulation and experimental results show that the improvement is about 3–4 dB.
Enhancing the relaxor character in K0.5Bi0.5TiO3 based ternary system for energy storage applications
Authors: Pappachan Seethal , Kuruvila Krupa Maria , Duraisamy Dhayanithi , Rashid A. , Lu Teng , Liu Yun , Venkatesan Giridharan Nambi
Published: December 2022

Lead-based ferroelectric materials dominate the electronic industry due to their possible applications in sensors, actuators, advanced storage materials, microwave devices, and MEMS. Due to the toxicity of lead, there is a need for the development of environmentally compatible alternatives. Lead-free ternary solid solutions of (1−2x)K0.5Bi0.5TiO3-xBaTiO3-xLiNbO3 (KBLN100x) with x = 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, and 0.09 are synthesized using a standard solid-state reaction method. X-ray diffraction studies confirm the pseudocubic structure of the samples. Structural, Raman, dielectric and piezoelctric studies indicate that a normal to relaxor ferroelectric transition occurs as dopant concentration increases, and it is attributed to the increase in charge fluctuation and site disorder that resulted in the reduction in correlation lengths of the inbuilt dipole moments. A recoverable energy density of 1.3 J/cm3 was achieved for the KBLN7 sample, making it an attractive candidate in the energy storage realm. A strain value of 0.17% with Smax/Emax of 218 pm/V is observed for KBLN3 sample, indicating that K0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (KBT)-based systems can be used for actuator applications on further improvement. The normal-relaxor crossover of KBT with appropriate dopants indicates that KBT-based systems are efficient for both actuator and energy storage applications on improvising and tuning as required.
Double cantilever beam bonding energy measurement using confocal IR microscopy
Authors: Colonel L. , Calvez A. , Fournel F. , Larrey V. , Moreau S. , Mazen F. , Rieutord F.
Published: December 2022

A new technique is assessed in order to measure, at the wafer scale, direct bonding energies. It is derived from the standard Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) method and uses interferometry in confocal IR laser source microscopy to measure crack openings. Such a bonding energy measurement protocol has better accuracy compared to other techniques. This is due to a better confocal microscopy resolution and the high intensity of the laser source. The elastic energy stored in bent wafers is obtained by measuring the beam curvature. DCB deformation models are discussed from the short-range crack opening theory to long distance beam-bending theories. Comparison is made between models, experimental results, and FEM simulations. Finally, the bonding energy error during standard measurements is estimated.
Resistivity contribution to stopping power and plasma heating by laser-accelerated electrons
Authors: Gus'kov S. Yu. , Kuchugov P. A.
Published: December 2022

A model of plasma stopping power with respect to laser-accelerated electrons is generalized. The model includes both main mechanisms of fast electron energy loss caused by Coulomb collisions with plasma electrons and ions (“collisional” mechanism), and by the field of resistive plasma current (“Ohmic” mechanism). The results are used to develop an analytical model of plasma heating by fast electrons with energies corresponding to the wide range of energy flux density of laser pulse capable to provide an intense generation of these particles. It is shown that the contribution of the Ohmic stopping power component has a significant effect on the dynamics of plasma heating by high-current fast electron beam generated by short femtosecond and picosecond laser pulses of petawatt power.
Two-dimensional complex (dusty) plasma with active Janus particles
Authors: Nosenko V.
Published: December 2022

A two-dimensional complex plasma containing active Janus particles was experimentally studied. A single layer of micrometer-sized plastic microspheres was suspended in the plasma sheath of a radio frequency discharge in argon at low pressure. The particle sample used was a mixture of regular particles and Janus particles, which were coated on one side with a thin layer of platinum. Unlike a suspension consisting of regular particles only, the suspension with the inclusion of Janus particles did not form an ordered lattice in the experimental conditions used. Instead, the particles moved around with high kinetic energy in a disordered suspension. Unexpectedly, the mean kinetic energy of the particles declined as the illumination laser power was increased. This is explained by the competition of two driving forces: the photophoretic force and the oppositely directed ion drag force. The mean-squared displacement of the particles scaled as tα with α = 2 at small times t indicating ballistic motion and α=0.56 ± 0.27 at longer times due to the combined effect of the Janus particle propensity to move in circular trajectories and external confinement.
Mechanism study of the conductivity characteristics of cellulose electrical insulation influenced by moisture
Authors: Zhao Haoxiang , Mu Haibao , Zhang Daning , Baumeier Björn , Yao Huanmin , Guo Guangzhi , Zhang Guanjun
Published: December 2022

Cellulose insulating paper is widely used in the power industry for its good electrical insulating properties. Moisture sharply increases its conductivity, which directly leads to the weakening of insulation performance and greatly increases the risk of subsequent electric field distortion and insulation breakdown. This paper focuses on the microscopic mechanism of moisture changing the characteristics of charge transport in cellulose insulation and attempts to reveal the related conductivity mechanism. To achieve this purpose, microscopic and macroscopic perspectives are integrated and several simulation and experimental methods are utilized comprehensively. The molecular dynamics simulation results showed that most water molecules in damped cellulose were individually and uniformly adsorbed on the hydroxyl groups by hydrogen bond, and the quantum chemistry computation results showed that the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital more appeared on the water molecule and the corresponding density of state increased. Then, experimentally, it was confirmed that the trap energy level decreased by the thermally stimulated current method. On this basis, the promotion effect of moisture on charge transport is predicted and verified by polarization and depolarization current methods. As the moisture content increased, more charge carriers escaped from the trap by hopping and participated in long-range continuous charge motion. Therefore, after dampness, the current of cellulose insulating paper increased exponentially with the increase in electric field strength, which was consistent with the hopping conductivity mechanism.
Creation of solitons and density cavities by lower hybrid waves
Authors: Saleem H. , Shan Shaukat Ali
Published: December 2022

Formation of Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) solitons by nonlinear lower hybrid waves (LHWs) is not possible in usual electron ion plasma because a dispersive term does not have a suitable form. It is pointed out that the dispersion characteristics of electrostatic LHWs are modified in the presence of field-aligned shear flow to produce KdV solitons with negative electrostatic potential as it has been observed by satellites in the upper ionosphere. Plasma density decreases within the solitary structures. The parallel electron velocity shear ve0=ve0(x)ẑ also gives rise to unstable waves in the intermediate frequency range in linear limit whereas the ambient magnetic field B0=B0ẑ is assumed to be constant. The instability and structure size depend upon the electron parallel velocity shear parameter Se=1Ωedve0(x)dx (where Ωe is the electron gyrofrequency) and the propagation direction with respect to the ambient magnetic field B0. The theoretical model is applied to the upper ionosphere, and the estimated width of the structures turns out to be of the order of 70 m, which is closer to the observations.
Emission of poloidal magnetic flux from a dense plasma focus
Authors: Auluck S. K. H. , Blagoev A. B.
Published: December 2022

A recent comprehensive review paper has summarized the current experimental state of knowledge on the question of existence of a poloidal component of magnetic field in the dense plasma focus and indirect evidence indicating its prominent role in neuron emission. This Letter looks at the role of the plasma as a curved, azimuthally continuous conductor moving in a small but nonzero geomagnetic field with a component along the device axis. The motional electric field then has an azimuthal component arising from the radial velocity, outward-directed near the cathode throughout the discharge, and inward directed in the radial implosion phase near the anode. This would drive an azimuthal current in the plasma. The electromechanical work done against the associated magnetic force density converts the kinetic energy into the associated magnetic energy density. This would act as a source of poloidal magnetic flux emission from a dense plasma focus, which has been experimentally demonstrated recently.
Trapping of waves in a flowing dusty plasma
Authors: Kumar Krishan , Bandyopadhyay P. , Singh Swarnima , Sen A.
Published: December 2022

We report on experimental observations of trapping of waves in a flowing dusty plasma. The experiments are performed in an inverted ∏-shaped dusty plasma experimental device in which the dusty plasma is created in a DC glow discharge argon plasma using micrometer-sized kaolin particles. Two copper wires are installed radially on the cathode, which serve to generate the flow in the dust fluid as well as to confine the waves. The dust fluid is initially made to flow over both the wires by altering the sheath potential of one of these wires, and as a result, the wave gets excited and propagates in the downstream direction. The wave gets trapped in between the wires when their separation is below a critical value of ∼2 cm. For a long time (of the order of a few seconds), the trapped-wave structure retains its identity. The amplitude of the wave crests and the distance between them remain constant with the dust fluid flow velocities. A numerical solution of the forced Korteweg-de Vries equation with two source terms as well as molecular dynamic simulations reproduce our experimental findings in a qualitative manner.
Numerical investigation on the distribution characteristics of dust deposition on solar photovoltaic modules
Authors: Zheng Haiming , Zhang Zhiyu , Fan Zhongyao , Sun Xing , Huo Shulong , Rui Rong
Published: December 2022

The deposition mechanism of dust on photovoltaic modules plays a key role in predicting the dust amount, determining dust removal techniques, and cleaning frequency. In this paper, a prediction model for the adhesion and erosion of dust particles was established to address the uneven dust distribution on photovoltaic modules. The proposed model was validated through an experiment of dust deposition, which was set in the low-speed section of a wind tunnel. Three conditions of the dust deposition process were numerically investigated, while varying different wind speeds, array row spacings, dust particle sizes, and wind direction. Results showed that wind speed was the main factor of dust deposition amount, and the change in wind speed and dust particle size had little influence on the distribution of dust deposition. Meanwhile, wind direction and array row spacing distinctly influenced the dust distribution. Increasing the row spacing induced relatively uniform dust distribution on the photovoltaic modules.
The physics of boundary conditions in reaction–diffusion problems
Authors: Piazza Francesco
Published: December 2022

The use of fully or partially absorbing boundary conditions for diffusion-based problems has become paradigmatic in physical chemistry and biochemistry to describe reactions occurring in solutions or in living media. However, as chemical states may indeed disappear, particles cannot, unless such degradation happens physically and should, thus, be accounted for explicitly. Here, we introduce a simple, yet general idea that allows one to derive the appropriate boundary conditions self-consistently from the chemical reaction scheme and the geometry of the physical reaction boundaries. As an illustration, we consider two paradigmatic examples, where the known results are recovered by taking specific physical limits. More generally, we demonstrate that our mathematical analysis delivers physical insight that cannot be accessed through standard treatments.
Accelerated constant-voltage quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical method for molecular systems at electrochemical interfaces
Authors: Takahashi Ken , Nakano Hiroshi , Sato Hirofumi
Published: December 2022

The structure and electronic properties of a molecule at an electrochemical interface are changed by interactions with the electrode surface and the electrolyte solution, which can be significantly modulated by an applied voltage. We present an efficient self-consistent quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) approach to study a physisorbed molecule at a metal electrode–electrolyte interface under the constant-voltage condition. The approach employs a classical polarizable double electrode model, which enables us to study the QM/MM system in the constant-voltage ensemble. A mean-field embedding approximation is further introduced in order to overcome the difficulties associated with statistical sampling of the electrolyte configurations. The results of applying the method to a test system indicate that the adsorbed molecule is no less or slightly more polarized at the interface than in the bulk electrolyte solution. The geometry of the horizontally adsorbed molecule is modulated by their electrostatic interactions with the polarizable electrode surfaces and also the interactions with cations attracted toward the interface when the adsorbate is reduced. We also demonstrate that the approach can be used to quantitatively evaluate the reorganization energy of a one electron reduction reaction of a molecule in an electrochemical cell.
Geometries and vibrational frequencies with Kohn–Sham methods using σ-functionals for the correlation energy
Authors: Neiss Christian , Fauser Steffen , Görling Andreas
Published: December 2022

Recently, Kohn–Sham (KS) methods with new correlation functionals, called σ-functionals, have been introduced. Technically, σ-functionals are closely related to the well-known random phase approximation (RPA); formally, σ-functionals are rooted in perturbation theory along the adiabatic connection. If employed in a post-self-consistent field manner in a Gaussian basis set framework, then, σ-functional methods are computationally very efficient. Moreover, for main group chemistry, σ-functionals are highly accurate and can compete with high-level wave-function methods. For reaction and transition state energies, e.g., chemical accuracy of 1 kcal/mol is reached. Here, we show how to calculate first derivatives of the total energy with respect to nuclear coordinates for methods using σ-functionals and then carry out geometry optimizations for test sets of main group molecules, transition metal compounds, and non-covalently bonded systems. For main group molecules, we additionally calculate vibrational frequencies. σ-Functional methods are found to yield very accurate geometries and vibrational frequencies for main group molecules superior not only to those from conventional KS methods but also to those from RPA methods. For geometries of transition metal compounds, not surprisingly, best geometries are found for RPA methods, while σ-functional methods yield somewhat less good results. This is attributed to the fact that in the optimization of σ-functionals, transition metal compounds could not be represented well due to the lack of reliable reference data. For non-covalently bonded systems, σ-functionals yield geometries of the same quality as the RPA or as conventional KS schemes combined with dispersion corrections.
Experimental exploration on stable expansion phenomenon of sheath flow in viscous microfluidics
Authors: Zhao Wenhan , Wu Wenshuai , Yuan Dan , Zou Siyuan , Yang Fan , Zhao Qianbin , Mehmood Kashif , Zhang Boran
Published: December 2022

Microfluidic technologies have been developed for decades, especially in bio-chemical research and applications. Among them, sheath flow is one of the most well-known techniques used for focusing microparticles into extremely narrow widths. With varying Reynolds numbers, sheath flow displays different behaviors, including diffusion, stable thread, and turbulence. In this study, a previously unknown phenomenon, namely, stable expansion, is originally reported in a 200 × 70 μm microchannel with a Reynolds number ranging from ∼10 to ∼110. This stable expansion of focusing width differs from all the reported phenomena in the literature and is experimentally explored in this study. First, the phenomenon is introduced, identified, and comprehensively described using different experimental samples and methods. Subsequently, an image processing algorithm of post-analysis is proposed and calibrated by the theoretical results of stable thread. Based on the calibrated standard protocol, the effects of flow rates and a hysteresis phenomenon due to variation in the flow rate are revealed and studied. In addition, the effects of fluid viscosity are investigated by introducing a mixture of deionized (DI) water and glycerin. It is found that, in this 200 × 70 μm2 (weight × height) microchannel made of PDMS, the stable expansion phenomenon will occur when the Reynolds number exceeds 10, and the expanded width will increase with total flow rate. Moreover, it is found that the expanded width in a flow rate reducing route is displayed to be wider than that in an increasing route. On the other hand, a high viscosity contrast (>40) between the middle sample and sheath flows can eliminate the focusing width expansion. The results indicate that this originally revealed phenomenon is experimentally repeatable and worth further studying to help researchers better understand the mechanism of microfluidics.
6-Benzyladenine alleviates NaCl stress in watermelon (
Authors: Li Xinyuan , Gao Meiling , Guo Yu , Zhang Ziwei , Zhang Zhaomin , Chi Li , Qu Zhongcheng , Wang Lei , Huang Rongyan
Published: December 2022

Soil salinity is a growing problem in agriculture, plant growth regulators (PGRs) can regulate plant response to stress. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of exogenous 6-benzyladenine (6-BA) on photosynthetic capacity and antioxidant defences in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.) seedlings under NaCl stress. Two watermelon genotypes were subjected to four different treatments: (1) normal water (control); (2) 20 mg L−1 6-BA; (3) 120 mmol L−1 NaCl; and (4) 120 mmol L−1 NaCl + 20 mg L−1 6-BA. Our results showed that NaCl stress inhibited the growth of watermelon seedlings, decreased their photosynthetic capacity, promoted membrane lipid peroxidation, and lowered the activity of protective enzymes. Additionally the salt-tolerant Charleston Gray variety fared better than the salt-sensitive Zhengzi NO.017 variety under NaCl stress. Foliar spraying of 6-BA under NaCl stress significantly increased biomass accumulation, as well as photosynthetic pigment, soluble sugar, and protein content, while decreasing malondialdehyde levels, H2O2 content, and electrolyte leakage. Moreover, 6-BA enhanced photosynthetic parameters, including net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2 concentration, and transpiration rate; activated antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase; and improved the efficiency of the ascorbate-glutathione cycle by stimulating glutathione reductase, dehydroascorbate reductase, and monodehydroascorbate reductase, as well as ascorbic acid and glutathione content. Principal component analysis confirmed that 6-BA improved salt tolerance of the two watermelon varieties, particularly Zhengzi NO.017, albeit through two different regulatory mechanisms. In conclusion, 6-BA treatment could alleviate NaCl stress-induced damage and improve salt tolerance of watermelons by regulating photosynthesis and osmoregulation, activating the ascorbate-glutathione cycle, and promoting antioxidant defences.
The molecular basis for pore pattern morphogenesis in diatom silica
Authors: Heintze Christoph , Babenko Iaroslav , Zackova Suchanova Jirina , Skeffington Alastair , Friedrich Benjamin M. , Kröger Nils
Published: December 2022

Biomineral-forming organisms produce inorganic materials with complex, genetically encoded morphologies that are unmatched by current synthetic chemistry. It is poorly understood which genes are involved in biomineral morphogenesis and how the encoded proteins guide this process. We addressed these questions using diatoms, which are paradigms for the self-assembly of hierarchically meso- and macroporous silica under mild reaction conditions. Proteomics analysis of the intracellular organelle for silica biosynthesis led to the identification of new biomineralization proteins. Three of these, coined dAnk1-3, contain a common protein–protein interaction domain (ankyrin repeats), indicating a role in coordinating assembly of the silica biomineralization machinery. Knocking out individual
dank
genes led to aberrations in silica biogenesis that are consistent with liquid–liquid phase separation as underlying mechanism for pore pattern morphogenesis. Our work provides an unprecedented path for the synthesis of tailored mesoporous silica materials using synthetic biology.
Correlation renormalized and induced spin-orbit coupling
Authors: Jiang Kun
Published: December 2022

Interplay of spin-orbit coupling (SOC) and electron correlation generates a bunch of emergent quantum phases and transitions, especially topological insulators (TI) and topological transitions. In this work, we find that electron correlation will induce extra large SOC in multi-orbital systems under atomic SOC and change ground state topological properties. Using Hartree-Fock mean field theory, phase diagrams of $p_{x}/p_{y}$ orbital ionic Hubbard model on honeycomb lattice are well studied. In general, correction of strength of SOC $\delta \lambda \propto (U'-J)$. Due to breaking down of rotation symmetry, form of SOC on multi-orbital materials are also changed under correlation. If non-interacting system is close to fermionic instability, spontaneous generalized SOC can also be found. Using renormalization group, SOC is leading instability close to quadratic band-crossing point. Mean fields at quadratic band-crossing point are also studied.
Reconfigurable bionic soft pneumatic gripper for fruit handling based on shape and size adaptation
Authors: Cheng Peilin , Lu Yebo , Wu Chuanyu , Yan Bo
Published: December 2022

A universal soft gripper for fruit grasping is challenging to develop. In this study, a modular and reconfigurable soft pneumatic gripper was designed. The designed gripper was inspired by the dexterous grasping of the human hand for fruits of different shapes and sizes. It comprised three soft extension actuators (SEAs), two soft rotation actuators (SRAs), and three soft bending actuators (SBAs). By adjusting SRAs, two grasping poses (claw and clenching pose) could be made to hold fruits of different shapes. The grasping size under each pose could be continuously adjusted by SEAs to grasp fruits of different sizes. SBAs were used to mimic soft fingers for grasping. Theoretical and simulation models were established to predict the relationships between deformations and pressures of SEAs, SRAs, and SBAs. The deformation characteristics of these actuators were experimentally investigated. It was shown that, by inflating SEAs, the grasping sizes under the claw and clenching poses could be increased by 87.5% and 94.5%, respectively. Furthermore, a visual recognition system was designed for automatically controlling the grasping pose and size. Grasping tests showed that, by reconfiguring the grasping pose and size, various fruits, vegetables, and foods with weights from 32 to 786 g (24.6 folds) and diameters from 30 to 141 mm (4.7 folds) could be successfully grasped, indicating the broad applicability of our all-pneumatic soft gripper.