bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local structure analysis of Sb, Bi, and Ag dopant atoms in Mg2Si semiconductor by x-ray absorption spectroscopy and first-principles calculation
Authors: Kitaura Mamoru , Wantanabe Shinta , Ina Toshiaki , Imai Motoharu , Udono Haruhiko , Ishizaki Manabu , Yamane Hisanori , Tanimoto Taku , Ohnishi Akimasa
Published: December 2021

The local structures around Sb, Bi, and Ag dopant atoms in the environmentally friendly semiconductor Mg2Si were investigated by Sb K-edge, Bi L3-edge, and Ag K-edge x-ray absorption spectroscopy performed at 10 K. Fourier transforms (FTs) of the k3-weighted extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) were analyzed. The experimental FTs of k3-weighted EXAFS were compared with the results of calculations using model clusters with Sb, Bi, and Ag atoms at the 8c, 4a, and 4b sites. The inverse FT of the χ(R) spectrum was calculated to refine the local structures for neighboring atoms around the Sb, Bi, and Ag atoms, and the interatomic distances and Debye–Waller factors were determined from the fit of the inverse FTs. The occupation of the 4a site by Sb and Bi atoms was demonstrated and that of the 8c site was investigated for Ag atoms. First-principles calculations were performed to clarify the characteristic change in the second-neighbor distances around the Ag atoms. The evaluation of the crystal orbital Hamilton population clarified that the change in the second-neighbor distances is caused by the bonding character formed between the Ag and Mg atoms. These results suggest that the Ag atoms mainly occupy the 8c site, while the large value of the Debye–Waller factor for the second neighboring atoms implies the possibility of the partial occupation of Ag atoms at the 4b sites. These findings provide an explanation for limiting the p-type conductivity in Mg2Si semiconductors.
Graphene oxide-doped photothermal heater in microchannel for thermophoretically shifting micro- and nano-particles
Authors: Lu Ting , Yang Senyu , Zhang Bingqi , Li Xinlei , Chen Tongsheng
Published: December 2021

We fabricated a microfluidic channel with a graphene oxide (GNO)-doped polydimethylsiloxane photothermal heater for thermophoretically shifting particles. Under 808 nm near infrared (NIR) irradiation, GNO doped in one side of the channel walls would be heated through the photothermal effect, which would create a temperature gradient in the channel and drive particles shifting toward the cold side. By controlling NIR intensity and irradiation area, the temperature distribution in the channel can be conveniently adjusted, which can be used to separate micro- and nano-particles by changing the shifting distance of the particles. Meanwhile, as GNO was directly doped in channel walls, this method can fit channels with complex shapes well, which is useful for improving the separation efficiency by adding complex structures in channels. The study provides a controllable and convenient heating method for microfluidic thermophoresis experiments.
Induction of large magnetic anisotropy energy and formation of multiple Dirac states in SrIrO3 films: Role of correlation and spin–orbit coupling
Authors: Chauhan Amit , Nanda B. R. K.
Published: December 2021

The 5d transition metal oxides, in particular iridates, host novel electronic and magnetic phases due to the interplay between onsite Coulomb repulsion (U) and spin–orbit coupling (SOC). The reduced dimensionality brings another degree of freedom to increase the functionality of these systems. By taking the example of ultrathin films of SrIrO3, theoretically we demonstrate that confinement led localization can introduce large magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE) in the range of 2–7 meV/Ir, which is one to two order higher than that of the traditional MAE compounds formed out of transition metals and their multilayers. Furthermore, in the weak correlation limit, tailored terminations can yield multiple Dirac states across a large energy window of 2 eV around the Fermi energy, which is rare phenomena in correlated oxides and upon experimental realization it will give rise to unique transport properties with excitation and doping.
Two-color optically addressed spatial light modulator as a generic spatiotemporal system
Authors: Semenov Vladimir V. , Porte Xavier , Abdulhalim Ibrahim , Larger Laurent , Brunner Daniel
Published: December 2021

Nonlinear spatiotemporal systems are the basis for countless physical phenomena in such diverse fields as ecology, optics, electronics, and neuroscience. The canonical approach to unify models originating from different fields is the normal form description, which determines the generic dynamical aspects and different bifurcation scenarios. Realizing different types of dynamical systems via one experimental platform that enables continuous transition between normal forms through tuning accessible system parameters is, therefore, highly relevant. Here, we show that a transmissive, optically addressed spatial light modulator under coherent optical illumination and optical feedback coupling allows tuning between pitchfork, transcritical, and saddle-node bifurcations of steady states. We demonstrate this by analytically deriving the system’s dynamical equations in correspondence to the normal forms of the associated bifurcations and confirm these results via extensive numerical simulations. Our model describes a nematic liquid crystal device using nano-dimensional dichalcogenide (a-As2S3) glassy thin films as photo sensors and alignment layers, and we use device parameters obtained from experimental characterization. Optical coupling, for example, using diffraction, holography, or integrated unitary maps allows implementing a variety of system topologies of technological relevance for neural networks and potentially Ising or XY-Hamiltonian models with ultralow energy consumption.
Monopole embedded eigenstates in nonlocal plasmonic nanospheres
Authors: Prudêncio Filipa R. , Silveirinha Mário G.
Published: December 2021

In recent years, the confinement of light in open systems with no radiation leakage has raised great interest in the scientific community both due to its peculiar and intriguing physics and due to its important technological applications. In particular, materials with near-zero permittivity offer a unique opportunity for light localization, as they enable the formation of embedded eigenstates in core-shell systems with suppressed radiation loss. For all the solutions presented thus far in the literature, the exact suppression of the radiation leakage can occur only when the size of the resonator is delicately tuned. Surprisingly, here, it is shown that the tuning of the resonator radius may be unnecessary, and nonlocal metal spherical nanospheres of any size may support multiple embedded eigenstates with monopole-type symmetry.
PKD-dependent PARP12-catalyzed mono-ADP-ribosylation of Golgin-97 is required for E-cadherin transport from Golgi to plasma membrane
Authors: Grimaldi Giovanna , Filograna Angela , Schembri Laura , Lo Monte Matteo , Di Martino Rosaria , Pirozzi Marinella , Spano Daniela , Beccari Andrea R. , Parashuraman Seetharaman , Luini Alberto , Valente Carmen , Corda Daniela
Published: December 2021

Significance

Proteins are modified by many posttranslational modifications (PTMs) with crucial regulatory functions. A PTM attracting increasing interest is ADP-ribosylation, capable of altering crucial cellular targets. We show that mono-ADP-ribosylation by PARP12 of the protein Golgin-97 regulates transport to the plasma membrane of a specific group of functionally crucial cargo proteins. PARP12 is shown to be part of a regulatory cascade initiated by PKD and involving the direct phosphorylation and activation of PARP12. These events define, through Golgin-97 mono-ADP-ribosylation, a Golgi sorting mechanism for specific basolateral cargoes, including E-cadherin. Defects in this cascade impair E-cadherin transport and formation of cell–cell contacts, with potential consequences for the formation of adherens junctions, polarization of epithelial cells, and development of epithelial–mesenchymal transformation.
Eulerian simulation of complex suspensions and biolocomotion in three dimensions
Authors: Lin Yuexia Luna , Derr Nicholas J. , Rycroft Chris H.
Published: December 2021

Significance

Fluid–structure interactions are ubiquitous in many natural and man-made environments. They are difficult to study analytically, and therefore accurate and flexible computational methods are an indispensable tool in the field. Typically, fluids are simulated with a fixed background computational mesh, whereas a solid is simulated with a mesh that moves with it, making it challenging to couple the two. Here we develop a three-dimensional computational method where both fluid and solid can be represented on a fixed computational grid, which simplifies the coupling between the two phases considerably. Our method can simulate scenarios that are difficult to do with other methods, such as complex suspensions containing soft particles that are both heavier and lighter than the fluid.
Lipid bilayer induces contraction of the denatured state ensemble of a helical-bundle membrane protein
Authors: Gaffney Kristen A. , Guo Ruiqiong , Bridges Michael D. , Muhammednazaar Shaima , Chen Daoyang , Kim Miyeon , Yang Zhongyu , Schilmiller Anthony L. , Faruk Nabil F. , Peng Xiangda , Jones A. Daniel , Kim Kelly H. , Sun Liangliang , Hubbell Wayne L. , Sosnick Tobin R. , Hong Heedeok
Published: December 2021

Defining the denatured state ensemble (DSE) and disordered proteins is essential to understanding folding, chaperone action, degradation, and translocation. As compared with water-soluble proteins, the DSE of membrane proteins is much less characterized. Here, we measure the DSE of the helical membrane protein GlpG of
Escherichia coli
(
E. coli
) in native-like lipid bilayers. The DSE was obtained using our steric trapping method, which couples denaturation of doubly biotinylated GlpG to binding of two streptavidin molecules. The helices and loops are probed using limited proteolysis and mass spectrometry, while the dimensions are determined using our paramagnetic biotin derivative and double electron–electron resonance spectroscopy. These data, along with our
Upside
simulations, identify the DSE as being highly dynamic, involving the topology changes and unfolding of some of the transmembrane (TM) helices. The DSE is expanded relative to the native state but only to 15 to 75% of the fully expanded condition. The degree of expansion depends on the local protein packing and the lipid composition.
E. coli
’s lipid bilayer promotes the association of TM helices in the DSE and, probably in general, facilitates interhelical interactions. This tendency may be the outcome of a general lipophobic effect of proteins within the cell membranes.
Transcranial stimulation of alpha oscillations up-regulates the default mode network
Authors: Clancy Kevin J. , Andrzejewski Jeremy A. , You Yuqi , Rosenberg Jens T. , Ding Mingzhou , Li Wen
Published: December 2021

Significance

In the brain’s functional organization, the default mode network (DMN) represents a key architecture, whose dysregulation is involved in a host of major neuropsychiatric disorders. However, insights into the regulation of the DMN remain scarce. Through neural synchrony, the alpha-frequency oscillation represents another key underpinning of the brain’s organization and is thought to share an inherent interdependence with the DMN. Here, we demonstrated that transcranial alternating current stimulation of alpha oscillations (α-tACS) not only augmented alpha activity but also strengthened connectivity of the DMN, with the former serving as a mediator of the latter. These findings reveal that alpha oscillations can support DMN functioning. In addition, they identify an effective noninvasive approach to regulate the DMN via α-tACS.
Synthesis of methanediol [CH
2
(OH)
2
]: The simplest geminal diol
Authors: Zhu Cheng , Kleimeier N. Fabian , Turner Andrew M. , Singh Santosh K. , Fortenberry Ryan C. , Kaiser Ralf I.
Published: December 2021

Significance

Methanediol [CH
2
(OH)
2
] represents a pivotal atmospheric volatile organic compound and plays a fundamental role in aerosol growth. Although sought for decades, methanediol has never been identified due to the inherent dehydration tendency of two adjacent hydroxyl groups (OH) at the same carbon atom. Here, we prepare and identify methanediol via processing of low-temperature ices followed by sublimation into the gas phase. These findings open up a concept to synthesize and characterize unstable geminal diols—critical organic transients in Earth’s atmosphere. The excited state dynamics of oxygen may also lead to methanediol in methanol-rich interstellar ices in cold molecular clouds, followed by sublimation in star-forming regions and prospective detection of these reactive intermediates in the gas phase by radiotelescopes.
A synergy between mechanosensitive calcium- and membrane-binding mediates tension-sensing by C2-like domains
Authors: Shen Zhouyang , Belcheva Kalina T. , Jelcic Mark , Hui King Lam , Katikaneni Anushka , Niethammer Philipp
Published: December 2021

Significance

A cell must be able to measure whether the lipid membranes that surround its insides are stretched. Currently, mechanosensitive ion channels are the best-studied class of membrane tension sensors, but recent work suggests that peripheral membrane enzymes that gauge nuclear confinement or swelling during cell migration or upon tissue injury constitute a second class. The mechanosensitivity of these enzymes derives from their calcium-dependent (“C2-like”) membrane-interaction domains. Although these can be found in many important signaling proteins, they have remained virtually unstudied as mechanotransducers. How membrane tension controls these domains and what features render them mechanosensitive is unclear. Here, we show that membrane tension-sensing by C2-like domains is mediated by a synergy between mechanosensitive calcium-binding and membrane insertion.
Children across societies enforce conventional norms but in culturally variable ways
Authors: Kanngiesser Patricia , Schäfer Marie , Herrmann Esther , Zeidler Henriette , Haun Daniel , Tomasello Michael
Published: December 2021

Significance

Humans, as compared with other animals, create and follow conventional norms that determine how we greet each other, dress, or play certain games. Conventional norms are universal in all human societies, but it is an open question whether individuals in all societies also actively enforce conventional norms when others in their group break them. We show that 5- to 8-y-old children from eight highly diverse societies enforced conventional norms (i.e., game rules) when they observed a peer who apparently broke them. Magnitude and style of enforcement varied across societies. Third-party enforcement of conventional norms appears to be a human universal that is expressed in culturally variable ways.
Functional observability and target state estimation in large-scale networks
Authors: Montanari Arthur N. , Duan Chao , Aguirre Luis A. , Motter Adilson E.
Published: December 2021

Significance

Observing the states of a network is fundamental to our ability to explore and control the dynamics of complex natural, social, and technological systems. The problem of determining whether the system is observable has been addressed by network control researchers over the past decade. Progress on the further problem of actually designing and implementing efficient algorithms to infer the states from limited measurements has been hampered by the high dimensionality of large-scale networks. Noting that often only a small number of state variables in a network are essential for control, intervention, and monitoring purposes, this work develops a graph-based theory and highly scalable methods that achieve accurate estimation of target variables of network systems with minimal sensing and computational resources.
Large variation in availability of Maya food plant sources during ancient droughts
Authors: Fedick Scott L. , Santiago Louis S.
Published: December 2021

Significance

The disruption of Classic Maya society coincided with extended droughts, as suggested by numerous paleoclimatic studies. However, the role of drought in civil upheaval and demographic decline is complicated by the difficulty of linking relatively coarse estimates of meteorological drought with fine-scale plant processes that underpin agriculture. Our analysis of drought resistance across the historically documented, indigenous food plants of ethnographic Maya groups shows a broad range of foods gradually dwindling through droughts of increasing severity. This finding implies that short to moderate droughts could have caused agricultural disruption but not subsistence collapse. However, multiyear extreme drought is consistent with agricultural collapse and the specter of starvation, unless mitigated by food storage or trade from areas less affected by drought.
RedChIP identifies noncoding RNAs associated with genomic sites occupied by Polycomb and CTCF proteins
Authors: Gavrilov Alexey A. , Sultanov Rinat I. , Magnitov Mikhail D. , Galitsyna Aleksandra A. , Dashinimaev Erdem B. , Lieberman Aiden Erez , Razin Sergey V.
Published: December 2021

Nuclear noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression and chromatin organization. The progress in studying nuclear ncRNAs depends on the ability to identify the genome-wide spectrum of contacts of ncRNAs with chromatin. To address this question, a panel of RNA–DNA proximity ligation techniques has been developed. However, neither of these techniques examines proteins involved in RNA–chromatin interactions. Here, we introduce RedChIP, a technique combining RNA–DNA proximity ligation and chromatin immunoprecipitation for identifying RNA–chromatin interactions mediated by a particular protein. Using antibodies against architectural protein CTCF and the EZH2 subunit of the Polycomb repressive complex 2, we identify a spectrum of
cis
- and
trans
-acting ncRNAs enriched at Polycomb- and CTCF-binding sites in human cells, which may be involved in Polycomb-mediated gene repression and CTCF-dependent chromatin looping. By providing a protein-centric view of RNA–DNA interactions, RedChIP represents an important tool for studies of nuclear ncRNAs.
Thermal conductivity of Fe-Si alloys and thermal stratification in Earth’s core
Authors: Zhang Youjun , Luo Kai , Hou Mingqiang , Driscoll Peter , Salke Nilesh P. , Minár Ján , Prakapenka Vitali B. , Greenberg Eran , Hemley Russell J. , Cohen R. E. , Lin Jung-Fu
Published: December 2021

Significance

Earth’s liquid outer core is mainly composed of iron alloyed with ∼8 to 10% of light elements (e.g., silicon). Convection of the liquid core generates Earth’s magnetic field, which is controlled by the thermal conductivity of the core. In this study, we investigated the resistivity and thermal conductivity of iron-silicon alloys as a candidate composition in Earth’s core via high-pressure and -temperature experiments and numerical calculations. We found a near temperature independence of the resistivity in iron-silicon alloys at Earth core’s pressure and thus a high thermal conductivity. This work indicates that if silicon is the sole major light element in Earth’s core it could depress thermal convection and promote a thermally stratified layer at the topmost outer core.
A three-dimensional broadband underwater acoustic concentrator
Authors: Ma Fuyin , Wang Linbo , Du Pengyu , Wang Chang , Wu Jiu Hui
Published: December 2021

We propose a three-dimensional (3D) omnidirectional underwater acoustic concentrator based on the concept of an acoustic prison, which can realize a substantial enhancement of underwater sound signals in broadband ranges. This device mainly employs the non-resonant multiple reflection characteristics of the semi-enclosed geometric space, so it has a wide working frequency bandwidth. Compared with previously reported concentrators based on transform acoustic mechanisms, the structure is more simple and, most importantly, it can realize omnidirectional signal enhancement in a 3D space. Moreover, the working frequency band of this acoustic concentrator depends on the size of the concentrator, so it can be changed directly through size scaling, which is convenient for engineering applications. In general, the designed underwater acoustic concentrator has the advantages of a simple structure, scalability, large bandwidth of working frequency, and high signal gain. It has potential applications in underwater target detection and other aspects.
Neural network aided diffractive metagratings for efficient beam splitting at terahertz frequencies
Authors: Li Runze , Cheng Jierong , Dong Xipu , Chang Shengjiang
Published: December 2021

The merging of neural networks with metasurfaces is a rising subject in photonics design, which offers an abstract bridge between the geometry of the subwavelength element and the optical response. The commonly involved optical response is the transmission or reflection spectrum, while here we focus on metasurfaces with superwavelength elements and predict multiple diffraction spectra in all the possible orders and orthogonal polarization modes given the geometry. This is achieved by parallel arrangement of several fully connected neural networks with shared input and diverse output diffraction spectra. As an application example, the model is used to find a metagrating as a 1:1 beam splitter in TE mode and 1:1:1 beam splitter in TM mode. The design is taken into fabrication and experimentally tested at 0.14 THz with results that are highly consistent with the prediction.
A patient-specific hybrid phantom for calculating radiation dose and equivalent dose to the whole body
Authors: Kollitz Erika , Han Haegin , Kim Chan Hyeong , Pinto Marco , Schwarz Marco , Riboldi Marco , Kamp Florian , Belka Claus , Newhauser Wayne , Dedes George , Parodi Katia
Published: December 2021

Objective. As cancer survivorship increases, there is growing interest in minimizing the late effects of radiation therapy such as radiogenic second cancer, which may occur anywhere in the body. Assessing the risk of late effects requires knowledge of the dose distribution throughout the whole body, including regions far from the treatment field, beyond the typical anatomical extent of clinical computed tomography (CT) scans. Approach. A hybrid phantom was developed which consists of in-field patient CT images extracted from ground truth whole-body CT scans, out-of-field mesh phantoms scaled to basic patient measurements, and a blended transition region. Four of these hybrid phantoms were created, representing male and female patients receiving proton therapy treatment in pelvic and cranial sites. To assess the performance of the hybrid approach, we simulated treatments using the hybrid phantoms, the scaled and unscaled mesh phantoms, and the ground truth whole-body CTs. We calculated absorbed dose and equivalent dose in and outside of the treatment field, with a focus on neutrons induced in the patient by proton therapy. Proton and neutron dose was calculated using a general purpose Monte Carlo code. Main results. The hybrid phantom provided equal or superior accuracy in calculated organ dose and equivalent dose values relative to those obtained using the mesh phantoms in 78% in all selected organs and calculated dose quantities. Comparatively the default mesh and scaled mesh were equal or superior to the other phantoms in 21% and 28% of cases respectively. Significance. The proposed methodology for hybrid synthesis provides a tool for whole-body organ dose estimation for individual patients without requiring CT scans of their entire body. Such a capability would be useful for personalized assessment of late effects and risk-optimization of treatment plans.
Polariton condensate and Landau-Zener-Stückelberg interferometry transition in multilayer transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Ekengoue C M , Kenfack-Sadem C , Danga J E , Bawe G N , El Moussaouy A , Mommadi O , Belamkadem L , Fai L C
Published: December 2021

This paper gives a detailed description of a high-performance polariton condensate for a quantum mechanical two-level system (TLS). We propose a transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) setup and theoretically carry out the spectroscopy of these polariton condensates. Through theoretical and numerical analysis, we obtain many features in two dimensional (2D) multilayer TMDs. We compute the energy of the system and the Landau-Zener-Stückelberg (LZS) quantum tunneling probability under the effect of a sequence of laser light. At certain critical 2D TMDs parameters, the system exhibits a multi-crossing scenario in a privileged position of 2D multilayer TMDs. We predict the consecutive modulations and highlight the conservation of the LZS interference patterns mapped from the 2D TMDs system. At weak coupling regime, a successful conversion of interferometry signals is identified for some values of laser frequency. We explain such a result as a valley sensitive cavity rate model due to coherent exchange and incoherent scattering, meaning that polariton condensate is formed in the valley around the Brillouin zone. The latter is used quantitatively and qualitatively to achieve high-precision measurements beyond that of its elementary constituents. The obtained results confirm that

M
o
S

e

2

has the highest sensitivity to radiation field as compared to other 2D multilayer TMDs materials. Therefore,

M
o
S

e

2

stands as an appropriate candidate among other 2D TMDs to form polariton condensates.
Density functional theory investigation of the mechanical, electronic and optical properties of Pb-free vacancy-ordered double perovskites K2PdCl6 and K2PdBr6
Authors: Zhao Xian-Hao , Tang Tian-Yu , Xie Quan , Lu Li-Min , Tang Yan-Lin
Published: December 2021

The current work has investigated the mechanical, electronic and optical properties of Pb-free vacancy-ordered double perovskites K2PdCl6 and K2PdBr6 by using first-principles calculations based on the framework of density functional theory (DFT). The calculated lattice constants of K2PdCl6 and K2PdBr6 are close to the experimental data. It is determined by calculating the Goldschmidt’s tolerance factors and elastic constants of K2PdCl6 and K2PdBr6 that they can be stabilized into 3D cubic crystal structures. The calculated Poisson and Pugh’s ratios indicate that K2PdCl6 is a brittle material, while K2PdBr6 exhibits ductile behavior. Both K2PdCl6 and K2PdBr6 are indirect band gap semiconductors, which show suitable band gaps of 2.151 eV and 1.368 eV for optoelectronic devices, respectively. In addition, the optical properties of K2PdCl6 and K2PdBr6 in the photon energy range of 0–6 eV further reveal the application potential of these compounds in single-junction and tandem solar cells as well as other optoelectronic devices.
New Features of the Pulsar B0950+08 Radiation at the Frequency of 111 MHz
Authors: Malofeev V. M. , Malov I. F. , Malov O. I. , Teplykh D. A.
Published: December 2021

Results of long time observations of the pulsar B0950+08 are given. These observations were carried out at the LPA radio telescope at the frequency of 111 MHz from January of 2016 to May of 2019 (450 days). A strong variability in emission of this pulsar has been detected with changes in signal to noise ratios hundreds of times. Part of the long-time flux density variability can be explained by refractive scintillations in the interstellar medium. The existence of radiation between the interpulse (IP) and main pulse (MP) was confirmed. It was more powerful than at high frequencies. We detected the unusual IP and precursor (Pr) radiation on 2017 August 1. On the basis of 65 strong IPs we found the correlations between energies of IP and Pr and between the phase of IP and the distance Pr–IP. It is shown that the observed peculiarities of this pulsar can be explained in the frame of the aligned rotator model. We estimated distances of radiation levels from the center of the neutron star. The calculated value of the initial period of 0.2 s means that not all pulsars are born with millisecond periods. The large age of the pulsar (6.8 million years) and the small angle between its magnetic moment and the rotation axis (less than 20°) confirm the suggestion related to pulsar evolution with respect to alignment.
The First Photometric Analysis of Two Low Mass Ratio Totally Eclipsing Contact Binaries: TIC 393943031 and TIC 89428764
Authors: Tang Yan-Ke , Guo Ya-Ni , Li Kai , Gai Ning , Li Zhi-Kai
Published: December 2021

Photometric analysis of the contact binaries TIC 393943031 and TIC 89428764 was carried out using Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite and SuperWASP data for the first time. Using the Wilson–Devinney code, we have found that TIC 393943031 is a low-mass-ratio deep contact binary with a fillout factor of 50.9(±1)% and a mass ratio of q = 0.163 ± 0.001. TIC 89428764 is a medium and low-mass-ratio contact binary with a fillout factor of 34.5(±1)% and a mass ratio of q = 0.147 ± 0.001. Furthermore, the period study reveals both the stars exhibit continuously increasing periods, the increasing rate is 4.21 × 10−7 day yr−1 for TIC 393943031 while 6.36 × 10−7 day yr−1 for TIC 89428764. The possible reason is mass transfer from the secondary component to the primary component for both stars. Meanwhile, we discussed their evolutionary phases and orbital angular momenta.
Study and Characterization of Natural Radioactivity Levels and Radiological Hazards of Soil in Wasit Governorate
Authors: Al-Rakabi Wisam Kareem H. , Al-Attabi Hadi Dwaich Z.
Published: December 2021

In this paper studied and measured the natural radioactive for agricultural soil samples surrounding Kut as well as gardens, home, casinos and others. Eighteen samples of agricultural land were taken on three deep depths the first depth 10 cm and the second 20 cm and the third 30 cm. Twenty-five samples were taken from public parks, parks, casinos and other parks. They are all measured using a system NaI (Tl) 3″ × 3″. The results that the radioactive effectiveness of uranium for all samples are ranged 17.19 to 38.68 Bq/Kg and at a rate of 30.55 Bq/Kg for all samples. Thorium series values were between 56.45 to 13.26 Bq/Kg with average 38.60 Bq/Kg. With regard to potassium, values were ranged 537.20 to 118.30 Bq/Kg at a rate of 250.25 Bq/Kg. The values of radioactive effectiveness for potassium are within the globally allowed compared with the radioactive effectiveness of the Thorium. The radium equivalent and the rate absorbed dose in air and the external and internal hazard index and the annual effective dose has been calculated and that all values are within the globally allowed limits.
Computational Design of a Magnetic Mirror
Authors: Ahmad Ahmad K. , Waheeb Hussain A. , Abass Hala F.
Published: December 2021

A computer-aided design (CAD) has been carried out to investigate the properties of the magnetic electron mirror design. The work has been focused on suggesting a mathematical formula to represent the radial displacement. The function that has been taken into consideration was suggested to give rise to the mirror action. A numerical solution is carried out for solving the Paraxial-ray equation for determining the optical properties such as the focal length, the spherical and chromatic aberration coefficients and the excitation of the mirror. The pole shape of the mirror has been determined in two dimensions. In the present work, the profile of the mirror determined from the suggested trajectory is the single-pole types. The coefficients of the chromatic and spherical aberrations of the magnetic mirror are determined and normalized in terms of the focal length. The operational requirements are determining the choice of the mirror.
Measuring of radioactive contamination by Gamma-ray Spectroscopy for many water projects in Baghdad City
Authors: Saad H , Aref N
Published: December 2021

The study aims to provide the effective monitoring of radioactive contents in refining water stations. Attempts were made to measure the radionuclide’s concentrations level which indicates to radioactive contamination in the samples of raw water taken from the Tigris River and samples of river sediments. The radionuclides contents have been obtained using the gamma-ray spectroscopy technique. Analysis system (HPGe) has been applied to measure the radioactivity concentration of Uranium, Radium, and Thorium in water and sediment samples. For solid samples (sediments), results have shown that the activity for238U the range was from (52±5.31Bq/kg)In S4 to(120±8)in S3, for 232Th the range was from(26±2.4Bq/kg)in S1to (48±3.1Bq/kg) in S3, for 40K, the range was from (247±17Bq/kg) in s4 to (453±18Bq/kg) in S3, for 137Cs the range was from(1.28±0.1Bq/kg) in S3 to (7.8±0.67) in S2. For liquid samples (water), the activity for 238U was from (10±1 Bq/l) in Kh1to(38±4.2Bq/l) in D1, for 232Th was from (1±0.35Bq/l) in kD1 to (1.8±0.60Bq/l) in D1, for 40K was from (10±0.3 Bq/l), in ka1to(48±5.7Bq/l) in KD1. In the final step (drinking water) showed only 40K isotope appeared at range(18±0.03 - 55±0.06Bq/l).
Blending Ratio Effect of ZnPc/ZnO Hybrid Nanocomposite on Surface Morphology and Structural Properties
Authors: Abbas K. F. , Abdulameer A. F.
Published: December 2021

Recently, organic/inorganic hybrid nanocomposites being the future in electronic applications. In this paper, we have investigated hybrid nanocomposite zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc)/zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO). ZnPc/ZnO hybrid nanocomposites were prepared with different ratios (wt/wt) (1/0), (0/1), (0.75/0.25), (0.5/0.5), (0.25/0.75), and, deposited on glass substrates by spin coating technique. X-Ray diffraction investigate the structural of ZnPc/ZnO thin films and studied the morphological properties using field emission scan electron microscopy, the surface of ZnPc/ZnO hybrid nanocomposites shows the presence of nanorod-like structures represented the organic material (ZnPc) and spherical nanoparticles for (ZnO), that is depending on the ratio of the blend. In ratio (0.5/0.5) we get the preferred homogeneous surface between like-nanorod and spherical shapes were show various properties from pure compounds which used to prepare the blend. The distribution of ZnO nanoparticles on ZnPc particles nanorods led to the disappearance feature of ZnO morphological characterize and ZnPc decorated was dominated on the hybrid nanocomposite structure.
Solar cells based on inkjet-printed layer polymer
Authors: Sachit R. S.
Published: December 2021

In recent years, based on organic–inorganic hybrid solar cells the p-type conducting polymer poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly styrene sulfonate (PEDOT: PSS) and n-type silicon (Si) have attracted a lot of attention. We describe an efficient hybrid solar cell based on PEDOT from this perspective: The simplest and most cost-effective method is to use PSS and a planar Si substrate (1 0 0) fabrication method effective techniques for experimentation Drop casting was used to construct PSS at temperatures, solar cells based on a heterojunction between crystalline silicon and the organic polymer PEDOT: below 100 degrees Celsius. The Si/PEDOT interface prevents electrons from migrating to the anode in n-type silicon and serves diffused p-n junctions as a low-temperature alternative The devices take the consequence of silicon’s absorption and transfer of light capabilities while combining them with organics’ ease of manufacture. PEDOT: PSS and PEDOT: PSS interface properties hermetic Psi were studied. The structural, optical and morphological properties in addition to electrical PSS is a property of PEDOT. were studied, the effectiveness of The flawlessly matching contact between the PEDOT: PSS film and the tight silicon can be attributed to conversion. Obtaining Silver pave efficiency is a glowing future approach in order to attain maximum efficiency, low-cost solar cells.
Measuring of Ionizing Radiation and CO2 Gas Concentration in Air of the Falluja City in Iraq
Authors: Ahmed N A
Published: December 2021

In this work, large nuclear radiation and CO2 readings have been achieved in Falluja city; hundreds of measurements have been collected in many places and streets. The vast data was processed by a new data visualization method, which makes all the data appear on the map using Google Earth Pro software. The lowest average exposure of ionizing radiation in the air is 1.314mSv/y for the first part of Falluja sector1, while the highest one is 1.5768mSv/y in sector2. The average radiation exposure in the air for people in Falluja city is 0.9732 mSv/y.
Fabrication of (ZnO)x: (Cu)1-x/PSi Solar Cell Using Laser Induced Plasma Technique
Authors: Jihad G. H. , Aadim K.A.
Published: December 2021

Fabrication of PSi is generated successfully depending upon photo-electrochemical etching process. The purpose is to differentiate the characterization of the PSi monolayer based on c-silicon solar cell compared to the bulk silicon alone. The surface of ordinary p-n solar cell has been reconstructed on the n-type region of (100) orientation with resistivity (3.2.cm) in hydrofluoric (HF) acid at a concentration of 2 ml was used to in order to enhance the conversion efficiency with 10-minute etching time and current density of 50 mA/cm2, The morphological properties (AFM) as well as the electrical properties have been investigated (J-V). The atomic force microscopy investigation reveals a rugged silicon surface with porous structure nucleating during the etching process (etching time), resulting in an expansion in depth and an average diameter of (40.1 nm). As a result, the surface roughness increases. The electrical properties of prepared PS, namely current density-voltage characteristics in the dark, reveal that porous silicon has a sponge-like structure and that the pore diameter increases with increasing etching current density and the number of shots increasing this led that the solar cell efficiency was in the range of (1-2%), resulting in improved solar cell performance.
Spectral and Nonlinear Properties of Coconut Oil
Authors: Rajaa Nader K.
Published: December 2021

In this research, the spectral properties of Absorption and Fluorescence of synthetic coconut oil (Local made) have been studied. It was found that the efficiency of coconut oil equal to (3.276%). In addition, non-linear optical properties represented by the refractive index (n2) and absorption coefficient(β) have been calculatal using three –dimensioual scanning technigue (z-scan and Helium Neom laser. Refractive inex (n2=4.231×10-7 cm2/mW) and absorption coefficient (β= 0.72373 cm/mW) have been measured from Closed-aperture part and Open-aperture part, respectively. Coconut oil has non-linear properties, where it can be utilize in nonlinear spectral applications, especially in the study the living tissue through its application and its treatment with laser.
Towards the Stable Evolution of Dendrites in the Case of Intense Convection in the Melt
Authors: Alexandrov D V , Galenko P K
Published: December 2021

The solid-phase pattern in the form of a dendrite is one of the frequently met structures produced from undercooled liquids. In the last decades, an analytical approach describing the steady-state crystal growth in the presence of conductive heat and mass transport has been constructed. However, experimental works show that crystal patterns frequently grow in the presence of convection. In this paper, a theoretical description based on convective heat and solute concentration transport near the solid/liquid phase interface is developed. The stable regime of crystallization in the presence of vigorous convection near the steady-state crystal vertex is studied. The stability analysis, determining the stable growth mode, and the undercooling balance law have been applied to deduce the stable values for the growth rate and tip diameter. Our analytical predictions (with convective transport) well describe experimental data for a small melt undercooling. Moreover, we compare both convective and conductive mechanisms in the vicinity of the crystal vertex. Our theory shows that convective fluxes substantially change the steady-state growth of crystals.
Using Mathematical modelling to choose the Best Types of Cement for Construction Projects
Authors: Jassim Al-Kufi Mohammed Abdul Hameed , Al-Ghabban Jaafar M. , Nassar Sahib Yasser
Published: December 2021

The purpose from the research to choose the correct and best type of cement that is prevail able by mass quantity in the markets and different types. To construction the infrastructures needs the best types but the worthy mentioned the world specifications depend on compressive strength after (28) days that means the target to recognize the cements, to exploit the times can be used the chemical analysis for cement composition and calculate the compressive strength on the alkali and alit during hours instead of (28) days practically. The advanced devices used to analysis the cement composition is (X-ray) device.
Investigate the Thermal Analysis Properties of Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Abid M K , Abbas M M , Abid N K , Jwad M K
Published: December 2021

Propylene carbonate (PC) (1:1) have been used as plasticizer to synthesized two series of polymer blend electrolytes (As and Cs) composed of Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/Polyacrylonitrile (PAN), (80/20) Wt.% and ethylene carbonate (EC) using solution cast technique. Mixed iodide salts and varying weight ratio of potassium iodide (KI) and cesium iodide (CsI) was used to study the thermal properties of polymer blend electrolytes (GPEs). Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) results show a decrease in the glass transition of electrolytes when increasing the weight percentage of salts, while the melting point increases due to the reduction in the polymer fluidity. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicates that the increase in the thermal stability can be attributed to the high thermal stability of polymer blend and the existence of the strong interaction between the two polymers. The optimum value of glass transition (Ts) is 104.2 °C found in sample containing 35 Wt.% of KI salt which has a melting point (Tm) 194.7 °C.
Study hybrid Treatment Technologies using (MBBR with Electro-flotation) for Textile wastewater
Authors: Ibrahim Dalia T , Abdul Hameed Hayder M
Published: December 2021

A novel hybrid approach to the global development treatment technology was introduced in this research, by using two sustainable green technologies treatment methods as (MBBR) combined with the Electro-flotation process. To improve the removal efficiencies of persistent and non-biodegradable dissolved organic dyes (Methylene blue dye) by using Iron and Aluminum electrodes. The treatment system achieved high performance than that any single treatment process and without the need to add chemical reagents. The characteristics of wastewater from textile dyeing used in this study were simulated to the General Establishment of Cotton Textile Industry/Baghdad. In addition, one of the most sustainable and useful by-products is found to be producing H2 gas at a rate of 1:13L. As a result, in the continuous system the optimum removal efficiencies of color, COD, and BOD are 90.08%, 100%, 100% respectively, were achieved at (200V, 2cm electrodes distance, 5 minutes, pH=7, 8 number of electrodes, 30gm weight of media).
Pre-calculated relevant Nd: YAG laser parameters for optimized varicose veins treatment
Authors: Hamoudi Walid K. , Alhashimi Qusay K. , Mustafa Muna B. , Abdulhameed Noor R. , maqdasi Hiba H.
Published: December 2021

Full clearance of enlarged veins, without side effects, had always been the ultimate dream of patients. Varicose veins’ treatment protocols were not very decisive and mostly associated with some side effects. The aim of this work is to demystify the exact dose of laser parameters; namely fluence and pulse duration, to successfully treat enlarged blood vessels in face, legs and arms without side effects. This necessitated the calculation of exact temperature rise of the targeted tissue before laser irradiation. The pre-calculated laser parameters required, for successful treatment, without side effects were tested to achieve optimum clinical results; using 1064nm pulsed Nd: YAG lasers for all skin photo types. For this work, two values of spot size (5mm and 3mm), variable pulse duration (15-30 ms), variable fluences (110-190 J/cm2) and variable skin cooling temperature (3-18 °C) were used. Pre and post-cooling were found necessary to ensure positive results and minimal discomfort.
Antimicrobial Activity of Zirconium Oxide Nanoparticles Prepared by the Sol-Gel Method
Authors: Thamir Ahmed A. , Jubier Najwa J. , Odah Jafer F.
Published: December 2021

The antimicrobial activity of zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles on E.coli and S. aureus bacterial strains were investigated. The sol-gel method was used to fabricate zirconium oxide nanoparticles for two molar ratios (0.5 M and 1 M). The crystallinity and morphology of the product were confirmed using x-ray diffraction (XRD) was show that the prepared zirconium oxide has a crystalline nature. The FESEM analysis indicates that the NPs were less than 20 nm and highly uniformed in size, having spherical morphology. The FTIR confirms the production of reactive oxygen species (R.O.S.) in zirconium oxide. At doses equivalent to conventional antibiotics, ZrO2 nanoparticles were shown to exhibit antibacterial action against gram-positive (S. aureus) and gram-negative bacteria (E. coli). The synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles demonstrated inhibitive activity against bacteria“ gram - ve E.coli by attracting negatively charged bacteria gram - ve E.coli, positively charged zirconium ions attack the cell wall. Results suggest that synthesized multifunctional ZrO2 nanoparticles may be a successful candidate in the health care system.
Hyperthyroidism with radioactive iodine-131
Authors: Jary Aqeel Maryoosh , Atiyah Sadeq Naeem , Alhamd M.W. , Abbood Nazar Ali
Published: December 2021

We looked into the restorative records of patients with Graves’ hyperthyroidism who were treated with iodine-131 between 1996 and 2002. Of the 135 patients, satisfactory data was gotten on the comes about of at slightest 24-month follow-up in 70 of them. Iodine-131 was given in a single measurements at a rate (200 microcuries/g of organ weight redressed to 100% iodine take-up after 24 hours). Methimazole treatment was suspended a week some time recently the organization of iodine-131. Treatment was considered fruitful with either or hypothyroidism. In follow-up examinations conducted after 12 months of application of the treatment, 81.2% of treatment victory rates were found, whereas in examinations conducted after 24 months, the rate come to 88.3%. This near the rates shown in the various sources.
Influence of Sintering Time on Superconducting Properties of Bi, Pb-2223 Compound Doped with Indium
Authors: Abbas M M , Jassim A K
Published: December 2021

This work was performed to investigate the effect of sintering time on superconducting properties of Bi1.7In0.3Pb0.3Sr2Ca2Cu3O10+d samples prepared by solid state reaction method. The samples properties have been investigated structurally by X-ray diffraction and morphologically by scanning electron microscopy. Structural analysis showed that two superconducting phases coexist in the samples. High temperature Bi-2223 and low-temperature phase 2212 with orthorhombic structure for all samples. Four point probe method used to study the electrical properties of the samples and the results showed that increasing sintering time yields superconductor samples. The sintering time 140 h improves the microstructure of the superconductor and produces greater size platelets as well as leading to the highest TC value of 113 K and highest oxygen content value. Scanning electron microscopy shows increasing sintering time changed morphology of samples. Moreover plate grains of the high Bi-2223 phase appeared in most micrographs of the superconducting samples.