bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Er-doped anatase TiO2 thin films on LaAlO3 (001) for quantum interconnects (QuICs)
Authors: Shin Kidae , Gray Isaiah , Marcaud Guillaume , Horvath Sebastian P. , Walker Frederick J. , Thompson Jeff D. , Ahn Charles H.
Published: August 2022

Rare-earth ions (REIs) doped into solid-state crystal hosts offer an attractive platform for realizing quantum interconnects that can function as quantum memories and quantum repeaters. The 4f valence electrons of REIs are shielded by 5s and 5p electrons and undergo highly coherent transitions even when embedded in host crystals. In particular, Er3+ has an optical transition in the telecom band that is suitable for low-loss communication. Recently, REIs in thin film systems have gained interest due to potential advantages in providing a flexible host crystal environment, enabling scalable on-chip integration with other quantum devices. Here, we investigate the structural and optical properties of Er-doped anatase TiO2 thin films on LaAlO3 (001) substrates. By choosing a system with minimal lattice mismatch and adjusting Er-dopant concentration, we achieve optical inhomogeneous linewidths of 5 GHz at 4.5 K. We show that 9 nm-thick buffer and capping layers can reduce the linewidth by more than 40%, suggesting a pathway to further narrowing linewidths in this system. We also identify that Er3+ ions mainly incorporate into substitutional Ti4+ sites with non-polar D2d symmetry, which makes Er dopants insensitive to the first order to local electric fields from impurities and is desirable for coherence properties of Er3+ spins.
In2S3 vacuum pressure sensor through a simple two-step process
Authors: Kumar Sumit , John Teny Theresa
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate here an In2S3 based vacuum pressure sensor that can operate over a vacuum range, 103–10−3 mbar at room temperature. It is shown that vacuum pressure has a significant electrical impact on the sensitivity and the sensor response of the device. The sensor response of the device in terms of the rate of resistance change is 183 with a quick rise/fall time of 3.3/1.7 s. Even after being exposed to ambient conditions for 8 weeks, the device displays a consistent and periodic sensor response for 100 consecutive vacuum on/off cycles, demonstrating its durability. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to identify the surface adsorbed/chemisorbed groups, which are responsible for vacuum sensing properties. These surface effects were further confirmed by exposing the device to different environments such as humidity, high temperature, and high purity oxygen. Though In2S3 is known for its properties as a buffer layer in solar cells, this study reveals another potential application of In2S3 thin films as a vacuum pressure sensor.
Perspectives on reducing anthropogenic interferences and mainstreaming nature-based solutions for sustainable restoration of Pulicat lagoon, India: from research to policy and implementation
Authors: Santhanam Harini , Dhyani Shalini , Benedict Xavier
Published: August 2022

The present study highlights the modern threats and challenges faced by Pulicat lagoon, a coastal ecosystem, as a result of urbanisation, and port development activities, and provides a detailed perspective of the significant factors causing changes to the ecosystem properties over the past decade. In face of accelerated changes, the article presents the need to create policies that recognise these threats as well as emphasises on the mainstreaming of nature-based solutions. This can help effective management of the sensitive ecosystem, which is vulnerable and for which collapse may be imminent if urgent conservation efforts are not initiated.
SARS-CoV-2 prefusion spike protein stabilized by six rather than two prolines is more potent for inducing antibodies that neutralize viral variants of concern
Authors: Lu Mijia , Chamblee Michelle , Zhang Yuexiu , Ye Chengjin , Dravid Piyush , Park Jun-Gyu , Mahesh KC , Trivedi Sheetal , Murthy Satyapramod , Sharma Himanshu , Cassady Cole , Chaiwatpongsakorn Supranee , Liang Xueya , Yount Jacob S. , Boyaka Prosper N. , Peeples Mark E. , Martinez-Sobrido Luis , Kapoor Amit , Li Jianrong
Published: August 2022

The spike (S) protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the main target for neutralizing antibodies (NAbs). The S protein trimer is anchored in the virion membrane in its prefusion (preS) but metastable form. The preS protein has been stabilized by introducing two or six proline substitutions, to generate stabilized, soluble 2P or HexaPro (6P) preS proteins. Currently, it is not known which form is the most immunogenic. Here, we generated recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) expressing preS-2P, preS-HexaPro, and native full-length S, and compared their immunogenicity in mice and hamsters. The rVSV-preS-HexaPro produced and secreted significantly more preS protein compared to rVSV-preS-2P. Importantly, rVSV-preS-HexaPro triggered significantly more preS-specific serum IgG antibody than rVSV-preS-2P in both mice and hamsters. Antibodies induced by preS-HexaPro neutralized the B.1.1.7, B.1.351, P.1, B.1.427, and B.1.617.2 variants approximately two to four times better than those induced by preS-2P. Furthermore, preS-HexaPro induced a more robust Th1-biased cellular immune response than preS-2P. A single dose (10
4
pfu) immunization with rVSV-preS-HexaPro and rVSV-preS-2P provided complete protection against challenge with mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 and B.1.617.2 variant, whereas rVSV-S only conferred partial protection. When the immunization dose was lowered to 10
3
pfu, rVSV-preS-HexaPro induced two- to sixfold higher antibody responses than rVSV-preS-2P in hamsters. In addition, rVSV-preS-HexaPro conferred 70% protection against lung infection whereas only 30% protection was observed in the rVSV-preS-2P. Collectively, our data demonstrate that both preS-2P and preS-HexaPro are highly efficacious but preS-HexaPro is more immunogenic and protective, highlighting the advantages of using preS-HexaPro in the next generation of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
Regime shifts, trends, and variability of lake productivity at a global scale
Authors: Gilarranz Luis J. , Narwani Anita , Odermatt Daniel , Siber Rosi , Dakos Vasilis
Published: August 2022

Lakes are often described as sentinels of global change. Phenomena like lake eutrophication, algal blooms, or reorganization in community composition belong to the most studied ecosystem regime shifts. However, although regime shifts have been well documented in several lakes, a global assessment of the prevalence of regime shifts is still missing, and, more in general, of the factors altering stability in lake status, is missing. Here, we provide a first global assessment of regime shifts and stability in the productivity of 1,015 lakes worldwide using trophic state index (TSI) time series derived from satellite imagery. We find that 12.8% of the lakes studied show regime shifts whose signatures are compatible with tipping points, while the number of detected regime shifts from low to high TSI has increased over time. Although our results suggest an overall stable picture for global lake dynamics, the limited instability signatures do not mean that lakes are insensitive to global change. Modeling the interaction between lake climatic, geophysical, and socioeconomic features and their stability properties, we find that the probability of a lake experiencing a tipping point increases with human population density in its catchment, while it decreases as the gross domestic product of that population increases. Our results show how quantifying lake productivity dynamics at a global scale highlights socioeconomic inequalities in conserving natural environments.
A weakened AMOC may prolong greenhouse gas–induced Mediterranean drying even with significant and rapid climate change mitigation
Authors: Delworth Thomas L. , Cooke William F. , Naik Vaishali , Paynter David , Zhang Liping
Published: August 2022

The Mediterranean region has been identified as a climate hot spot, with models projecting a robust warming and rainfall decline in response to increasing greenhouse gases. The projected rainfall decline would have impacts on agriculture and water resources. Can such changes be reversed with significant reductions in greenhouse gases? To explore this, we examine large ensembles of a high-resolution climate model with various future radiative forcing scenarios, including a scenario with substantial reductions in greenhouse gas concentrations beginning in the mid-21st century. In response to greenhouse gas reductions, the Mediterranean summer rainfall decline is reversed, but the winter rainfall decline continues. This continued winter rainfall decline results from a persistent atmospheric anticyclone over the western Mediterranean. Using additional numerical experiments, we show that the anticyclone and continued winter rainfall decline are attributable to greenhouse gas–induced weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) that continues throughout the 21st century. The persistently weak AMOC, in concert with greenhouse gas reductions, leads to rapid cooling and sea ice growth in the subpolar North Atlantic. This cooling leads to a strong cyclonic atmospheric circulation anomaly over the North Atlantic subpolar gyre and, via atmospheric teleconnections, to the anticyclonic circulation anomaly over the Mediterranean. The failure to reverse the winter rainfall decline, despite substantial climate change mitigation, is an example of a “surprise” in the climate system. In this case, a persistent AMOC change unexpectedly impedes the reversibility of Mediterranean climate change. Such surprises could complicate pathways toward full climate recovery.
Signatures of adaptive evolution in platyrrhine primate genomes
Authors: Byrne Hazel , Webster Timothy H. , Brosnan Sarah F. , Izar Patrícia , Lynch Jessica W.
Published: August 2022

The platyrrhine family Cebidae (capuchin and squirrel monkeys) exhibit among the largest primate encephalization quotients. Each cebid lineage is also characterized by notable lineage-specific traits, with capuchins showing striking similarities to Hominidae such as high sensorimotor intelligence with tool use, advanced cognitive abilities, and behavioral flexibility. Here, we take a comparative genomics approach, performing genome-wide tests for positive selection across five cebid branches, to gain insight into major periods of cebid adaptive evolution. We uncover candidate targets of selection across cebid evolutionary history that may underlie the emergence of lineage-specific traits. Our analyses highlight shifting and sustained selective pressures on genes related to brain development, longevity, reproduction, and morphology, including evidence for cumulative and diversifying neurobiological adaptations across cebid evolution. In addition to generating a high-quality reference genome assembly for robust capuchins, our results lend to a better understanding of the adaptive diversification of this distinctive primate clade.
Isolation of a virus causing a chronic infection in the archaeal model organism
Haloferax volcanii
reveals antiviral activities of a provirus
Authors: Alarcón-Schumacher Tomas , Naor Adit , Gophna Uri , Erdmann Susanne
Published: August 2022

Viruses are important ecological, biogeochemical, and evolutionary drivers in every environment. Upon infection, they often cause the lysis of the host cell. However, some viruses exhibit alternative life cycles, such as chronic infections without cell lysis. The nature and the impact of chronic infections in prokaryotic host organisms remains largely unknown. Here, we characterize a novel haloarchaeal virus, Haloferax volcanii pleomorphic virus 1 (HFPV-1), which is currently the only virus infecting the model haloarchaeon
Haloferax volcanii
DS2, and demonstrate that HFPV-1 and
H. volcanii
are a great model system to study virus–host interactions in archaea. HFPV-1 is a pleomorphic virus that causes a chronic infection with continuous release of virus particles, but host and virus coexist without cell lysis or the appearance of resistant cells. Despite an only minor impact of the infection on host growth, we uncovered an extensive remodeling of the transcriptional program of the host (up to 1,049 differentially expressed genes). These changes are highlighted by a down-regulation of two endogenous provirus regions in the host genome, and we show that HFPV-1 infection is strongly influenced by a cross-talk between HFPV-1 and one of the proviruses mediated by a superinfection-like exclusion mechanism. Furthermore, HFPV-1 has a surprisingly wide host range among haloarchaea, and purified virus DNA can cause an infection after transformation into the host, making HFPV-1 a candidate for being developed into a genetic tool for a range of so far inaccessible haloarchaea.
A partnership between the lipid scramblase XK and the lipid transfer protein VPS13A at the plasma membrane
Authors: Guillén-Samander Andrés , Wu Yumei , Pineda S. Sebastian , García Francisco J. , Eisen Julia N. , Leonzino Marianna , Ugur Berrak , Kellis Manolis , Heiman Myriam , De Camilli Pietro
Published: August 2022

Chorea-acanthocytosis (ChAc) and McLeod syndrome are diseases with shared clinical manifestations caused by mutations in VPS13A and XK, respectively. Key features of these conditions are the degeneration of caudate neurons and the presence of abnormally shaped erythrocytes. XK belongs to a family of plasma membrane (PM) lipid scramblases whose action results in exposure of PtdSer at the cell surface. VPS13A is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-anchored lipid transfer protein with a putative role in the transport of lipids at contacts of the ER with other membranes. Recently VPS13A and XK were reported to interact by still unknown mechanisms. So far, however, there is no evidence for a colocalization of the two proteins at contacts of the ER with the PM, where XK resides, as VPS13A was shown to be localized at contacts between the ER and either mitochondria or lipid droplets. Here we show that VPS13A can also localize at ER–PM contacts via the binding of its PH domain to a cytosolic loop of XK, that such interaction is regulated by an intramolecular interaction within XK, and that both VPS13A and XK are highly expressed in the caudate neurons. Binding of the PH domain of VPS13A to XK is competitive with its binding to intracellular membranes that mediate other tethering functions of VPS13A. Our findings support a model according to which VPS13A-dependent lipid transfer between the ER and the PM is coupled to lipid scrambling within the PM. They raise the possibility that defective cell surface exposure of PtdSer may be responsible for neurodegeneration.
Leisure-time sedentary behaviors are differentially associated with all-cause dementia regardless of engagement in physical activity
Authors: Raichlen David A. , Klimentidis Yann C. , Sayre M. Katherine , Bharadwaj Pradyumna K. , Lai Mark H. C. , Wilcox Rand R. , Alexander Gene E.
Published: August 2022

Sedentary behavior (SB) is associated with cardiometabolic disease and mortality, but its association with dementia is currently unclear. This study investigates whether SB is associated with incident dementia regardless of engagement in physical activity (PA). A total of 146,651 participants from the UK Biobank who were 60 years or older and did not have a diagnosis of dementia (mean [SD] age: 64.59 [2.84] years) were included. Self-reported leisure-time SBs were divided into two domains: time spent watching television (TV) or time spent using a computer. A total of 3,507 individuals were diagnosed with all-cause dementia over a mean follow-up of 11.87 (±1.17) years. In models adjusted for a wide range of covariates, including time spent in PA, time spent watching TV was associated with increased risk of incident dementia (HR [95% CI] = 1.24 [1.15 to 1.32]) and time spent using a computer was associated with decreased risk of incident dementia (HR [95% CI] = 0.85 [0.81 to 0.90]). In joint associations with PA, TV time and computer time remained significantly associated with dementia risk at all PA levels. Reducing time spent in cognitively passive SB (i.e., TV time) and increasing time spent in cognitively active SB (i.e., computer time) may be effective behavioral modification targets for reducing risk of dementia regardless of engagement in PA.
Selective inhibitors of SARM1 targeting an allosteric cysteine in the autoregulatory ARM domain
Authors: Feldman Hannah C. , Merlini Elisa , Guijas Carlos , DeMeester Kristen E. , Njomen Evert , Kozina Ellen M. , Yokoyama Minoru , Vinogradova Ekaterina , Reardon Holly T. , Melillo Bruno , Schreiber Stuart L. , Loreto Andrea , Blankman Jacqueline L. , Cravatt Benjamin F.
Published: August 2022

The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrolase (NADase) sterile alpha toll/interleukin receptor motif containing-1 (SARM1) acts as a central executioner of programmed axon death and is a possible therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders. While orthosteric inhibitors of SARM1 have been described, this multidomain enzyme is also subject to intricate forms of autoregulation, suggesting the potential for allosteric modes of inhibition. Previous studies have identified multiple cysteine residues that support SARM1 activation and catalysis, but which of these cysteines, if any, might be selectively targetable by electrophilic small molecules remains unknown. Here, we describe the chemical proteomic discovery of a series of tryptoline acrylamides that site-specifically and stereoselectively modify cysteine-311 (C311) in the noncatalytic, autoregulatory armadillo repeat (ARM) domain of SARM1. These covalent compounds inhibit the NADase activity of WT-SARM1, but not C311A or C311S SARM1 mutants, show a high degree of proteome-wide selectivity for SARM1_C311 and stereoselectively block vincristine- and vacor-induced neurite degeneration in primary rodent dorsal root ganglion neurons. Our findings describe selective, covalent inhibitors of SARM1 targeting an allosteric cysteine, pointing to a potentially attractive therapeutic strategy for axon degeneration-dependent forms of neurological disease.
Egophoricity and evidentiality: Different categories, similar discourse functions
Authors: Sandman Erika , Grzech Karolina
Published: August 2022

This article discusses how evidential and egophoric making is used to manage knowledge in interaction. To this end, it analyzes interactional data from Wutun (mixed Sinitic, Northwest China) and Upper Napo Kichwa (Quechuan, Ecuador). Wutun has an egophoric marking system, which, according to the definition of egophoricity, encodes involvement/lack of involvement in the described event. Upper Napo Kichwa has a set of evidentials, which, according to theory, encode the source of evidence for a given proposition. The two languages are typologically unrelated. However, when we look closely at how speakers of Wutun and Kichwa use epistemic markers, we discover functional similarities not predicted by the dominant definitions of epistemicity and evidentiality. In both languages, the use of the markers is conditioned by the interpersonal context of the interaction, and speakers use egophoric and evidential marking to signal their epistemic rights and responsibilities with respect to other speech-act participants.
The manipulations of surface anisotropy and interfacial Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction by an amorphized oxide Ta capping layer
Authors: Cho Jaehun , Lee Chan-Kang , Kim Joonwoo , Kim June-Seo , You Chun-Yeol
Published: August 2022

The perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) and the interfacial Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction (iDMI) energy density in Ta/Pt/Co/plasma-enhanced oxide layer systems are systematically investigated by using the magneto-optical Kerr effect and Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy. The wedge-type top Ta layer is grown and the in-situ plasma-enhanced oxidation process is performed to form an amorphized oxide layer. Consequently, the surface anisotropy energy is significantly reduced in a certain TaO
x
thickness range and the iDMI energy density is relatively maintained. From these systematic experiments, we reveal that the PMA energy is strongly affected by both top and bottom interfaces, but the contribution from the bottom interface is dominant for the iDMI energy density.
Fabrication of g-C3N4/N,Fe co-doped CQDs composites: in situ decoration of g-C3N4 with N-CQDs and Fe and efficient visible-light photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline
Authors: Mou Zhigang , Chen Ting , Tao Yang , Gao Yang , Sun Jianhua , Lei Weining
Published: August 2022

Herein, for the first time, g-C3N4/N,Fe co-doped carbon quantum dots (CN/N,Fe-CQDs) composites were fabricated by a two-step fabrication route. N,Fe-CQDs were obtained via facile pyrolysis of ammonium ferric citrate. Through thermal condensation of the synthesized N,Fe-CQDs and urea, CN/N,Fe-CQDs composites were successfully fabricated for highly efficient photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline (TC). The optimized CN/N,Fe-CQDs composite obtained the degradation efficiency of 81.0% after 40 min visible-light illumination, and its apparent rate constant was 3.41 times higher than that of pure g-C3N4. The remarkable enhancement of photodegradation activity is mainly attributed to the synergetic effect of N-CQDs and Fe co-decoration in CN/N,Fe-CQDs arising from the incorporation of N,Fe-CQDs into the g-C3N4 matrix, which could increase the specific surface area, wide visible-light absorption range, and accelerate separation and transfer of interfacial charge. The active species capture experiments and electron spin resonance technique testified that ‧O2
−, ‧OH, 1O2 and h+ were all involved in the degradation of TC in the photocatalytic process. According to the result of mass spectrometry, TC underwent hydroxylation, demethylation, N-demethylation, deamination, dehydroxylation, ring opening processes, and was ultimately mineralized into CO2 and H2O. This research can provide a new understanding of the roles played by non-metal and metal ions co-doped CQDs in photocatalytic system and open up a new way to develop highly efficient photocatalysts for TC degradation.
Ground state and thermodynamic properties of the coupled double-Ising model: application to rare-earth tetraborides
Authors: Farkašovský Pavol , Regeciová Lubomíra
Published: August 2022

A combination of the standard Metropolis algorithm and the parallel tempering method is used to study ground-state and thermodynamic properties of the coupled double Ising (CDI) model on the Shastry–Sutherland lattice (SSL). This model is derived from the complex spin-electron model, in which electrons described by the Hubbard model and spins described by the Ising model interact via the anisotropic spin-dependent interaction of the Ising type, under the following three conditions: (a) the Hubbard interaction between electrons in the conduction band is sufficiently large; (b) the number of conduction electrons is equal to the number of the lattice points; (c) there is the easy axis spin anisotropy in the system. The model is solved numerically for the selected combinations of spins from the electron (

s
=
1

/

2

) and spin (

S
=
1
,
3

/

2
,
2

) Ising branch which represent very realistically the situation in TmB4, ErB4 and HoB4 compounds, where in addition all three conditions are simultaneously satisfied. It is shown that the interlpay between the electron and spin branch of the CDI model leads to the suppression of the 1/3 magnetization plateau (the main magnetization plateau found in the ordinary Ising model on the SSL) and the stabilization of magnetization plateaus with

m
∼
1

/

2

, which is in perfect agreement with the experimental measurements in TmB4 and ErB4 compounds. A nice correspondence between theoretical and experimental results is also obtained for the temperature dependence of the specific heat capacity, where the low-temperature peak corresponding to the electron branch of the CDI model is followed by high-temperature peak of the spin branch. This opens a new route for exploring the physics of other complex spin-electron systems in which the above-mentioned conditions (a)–(c) are fulfilled.
Radius of analyticity of solutions to compressible Navier–Stokes–Korteweg system
Authors: Deng Wen , Paicu Marius
Published: August 2022

We study the analyticity and Gevrey regularity for the solutions to the compressible Navier–Stokes–Korteweg system. It was observed by Charve et al (2021 Indiana Univ. Math. J.
70 1903–44) that this system has the full parabolicity property due to the coupling of the equations given by the Korteweg capillarity term, which allows them to prove the analyticity of the solutions in the whole space

R

d

with radius bounded from below by

C

t

. In this paper, we improve this lower bound, motivated by the works of Chemin et al (2020 Math. Res. Lett.
27 1631–43) concerning the classical Navier–Stokes system. We also study the compressible Navier–Stokes–Korteweg system with periodic boundary condition and we show that the radius of analyticity for the mild solution is bounded from below by Ct.
Global existence and decay of the inhomogeneous Muskat problem with Lipschitz initial data
Authors: Alonso-Orán Diego , Granero-Belinchón Rafael
Published: August 2022

In this work we study the inhomogeneous Muskat problem, i.e. the evolution of an internal wave between two different fluids in a porous medium with discontinuous permeability. In particular, under precise conditions on the initial datum and the physical quantities of the problem, our results ensure the decay of the solutions towards the equilibrium state in the Lipschitz norm. In addition, we establish the global existence and decay of Lipschitz solutions.
The calculation of electrical impedance tomography based silent spaces requires individual thorax and lung contours
Authors: Yang Lin , Fu Feng , Frerichs Inéz , Möller Knut , Dai Meng , Zhao Zhanqi
Published: August 2022

Objective. The present study evaluates the influence of different thorax contours (generic versus individual) on the parameter ‘silent spaces’ computed from electrical impedance tomography (EIT) measurements. Approach. Six patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome were analyzed retrospectively. EIT measurements were performed and the silent spaces were calculated based on (1) patient-specific contours Sind, (2) generic adult male contours SEidorsA and (3) generic neonate contours SEidorsN. Main results. The differences among all studied subjects were 5 ± 6% and 8 ± 7% for Sind versus SEidorsA, Sind versus SEidorsN, respectively (median ± interquartile range). Sind values were higher than the generic ones in two patients. Significance. In the present study, we demonstrated the differences in values when the silent spaces were calculated based on different body and organ contours. To our knowledge, this study was the first one showing explicitly that silent spaces calculated with generic thorax and lung contours might lead to results with different locations and values as compared to the calculation with subject-specific models. Interpretations of silent spaces should be proceeded with caution.
Entropic uncertainty and quantum correlations dynamics in a system of two qutrits exposed to local noisy channels
Authors: Ur Rahman Atta , Abd-Rabbou M Y , Zangi S M , Javed Muhammad
Published: August 2022

We address the dynamics of the lower bound of geometric quantum discord and quantum-memory-assisted entropic uncertainty in a two-qutrit system when exposed to classical channels characterized by power-law (PL) and random telegraph (RT) noises. The system-channel coupling strategy is examined in two contexts: common qutrit-environment (CQE) and different qutrit-environment (DQE) configurations. We show that the geometric quantum discord functions remain anti-correlated with entropic uncertainty and decline as uncertainty appears in the system. The rate of entropic uncertainty appearance seems more prevalent than the decline rate of quantum discord function, suggesting that uncertainty causes the quantum correlations to fade in quantum systems. We find that non-local correlations estimated by the lower bound of geometric quantum discord are not destroyed even at the maximum entropic disorder and entropic uncertainty. In addition, the efficacy of entropic uncertainty and the lower bound is strongly influenced by the state’s purity factor, with the former being more robust at higher purity values and the latter at lower purity values. All the parameters impact entropic uncertainty, however, the mixedness of the state is noticed to greatly alter the generation of quantum memory. Besides, PL noise caused Markovian behavioral dynamics, and the RT noise allowed non-Markovian dynamics, while the latter remains more resourceful for the quantum correlations preservation and entropic uncertainty suppression. We also demonstrate how to model longer quantum correlations and provide optimal parameter settings for suppressing the dephasing and entropic uncertainty effects.
Stellar Obliquities in Exoplanetary Systems
Authors: Albrecht Simon H. , Dawson Rebekah I. , Winn Joshua N.
Published: August 2022

The rotation of a star and the revolutions of its planets are not necessarily aligned. This article reviews the measurement techniques, key findings, and theoretical interpretations related to the obliquities (spin–orbit angles) of planet-hosting stars. The best measurements are for stars with short-period giant planets, which have been found on prograde, polar, and retrograde orbits. It seems likely that dynamical processes such as planet–planet scattering and secular perturbations are responsible for tilting the orbits of close-in giant planets, just as those processes are implicated in exciting orbital eccentricities. The observed dependence of the obliquity on orbital separation, planet mass, and stellar structure suggests that in some cases, tidal dissipation damps a star’s obliquity within its main-sequence lifetime. The situation is not as clear for stars with smaller or wider-orbiting planets. Although the earliest measurements of such systems tended to find low obliquities, some glaring exceptions are now known in which the star’s rotation is misaligned with respect to the coplanar orbits of multiple planets. In addition, statistical analyses based on projected rotation velocities and photometric variability have found a broad range of obliquities for F-type stars hosting compact multiple-planet systems. The results suggest it is unsafe to assume that stars and their protoplanetary disks are aligned. Primordial misalignments might be produced by neighboring stars or more complex events that occur during the epoch of planet formation.
KIC 10417986: Spectroscopic Confirmation of the Nature of the Binary System with a δ Scuti Component
Authors: Feng Guo-Jie , Esamdin Ali , Fu Jian-Ning , Niu Hu-Biao , Zong Peng , Yang Tao-Zhi , Ma Shu-Guo , Xu Jing , Bai Chun-Hai , Wang Yong , Sun Wei-Chao , Wang Xin-Liang
Published: August 2022

KIC 10417986 is a short orbital period (0.0737 day) ellipsoidal variable star with a δ Sct and γ Dor hybrid pulsation component discovered by Kepler. The ground-based spectroscopic observations were carried out in the winters of 2020 and 2021 to investigate the binary nature of this star. We derive the orbital parameters using the rvfit code with a result of K
1 = 29.7 ± 1.5 km s−1, γ = −18.7 ± 1.7 km s−1, and confirm an orbital period of 0.84495 day instead of the result given by Kepler. The atmospheric parameters of the primary are determined by the synthetic spectral fitting technique with the estimated values of T
eff = 7411 ± 187 K, log g = 4.2 ± 0.3 dex, [M/H] = 0.08 ± 0.09 dex and vsini = 52 ± 11 km s−1. KIC 10417986 is a circular orbit binary system. From the single-lined nature and mass function of the star, the derived orbital inclination is 26° ± 6°, and the mass of the secondary is

0.52

−
0.09

+
0.18

M
⊙, which should be a late-K to early-M type star. Fourteen frequencies are extracted from Kepler light curves, of which six independent frequencies in the high-frequency region are identified as the p-mode pulsations of δ Sct star, and one independent frequency in the low-frequency region (f
2 = 1.3033 cd−1) is probably the rotational frequency due to the starspots rather than the ellipsoidal effect.
A method to challenge symmetries in data with self-supervised learning
Authors: Tombs Rupert , Lester Christopher G.
Published: August 2022

Symmetries are key properties of physical models and of experimental designs, but any proposed symmetry may or may not be realized in nature. In this paper, we introduce a practical and general method to test such suspected symmetries in data, with minimal external input. Self-supervision, which derives learning objectives from data without external labelling, is used to train models to predict 'which is real?' between real data and symmetrically transformed alternatives. If these models make successful predictions in independent tests, then they challenge the targeted symmetries. Crucially, our method handles filtered data, which often arise from inefficiencies or deliberate selections, and which could give the illusion of asymmetry if mistreated. We use examples to demonstrate how the method works and how the models' predictions can be interpreted. Code and data are available at https://zenodo.org/record/6861702.
Analytical method for determining the “active” speed of the spindle cotton harvester
Authors: Rizaev A A , Djuraeva N B , Khunarov A A
Published: August 2022

The efficiency of the spindle harvester is determined by the activity of the spindle teeth located on the drums. The well-known M V Sablikov theory of cotton harvesting technology says that the capability of capturing cotton by the spindle depends on the correspondence between the directions of the tip and the speed vector of the tooth point. The article is devoted to the development of an analytical method for determining the active component of the absolute velocity of the tooth point of the spindle in the working chamber of the picking apparatus. The method is characterized by studying the orientation of the absolute velocity vector relative to the tangent to the circle of the section and the bisector of the spindle tooth wedge angle. Having located the centers of the coordinate axes along the tangent and the bisector at the tooth point, the oblique directing angles of the velocity vector were determined, and its active component was calculated. Graphs of changes in velocity during the time the spindle was in the working chamber were plotted, and an assessment was made of the capability of cotton capturing by the working body.
Determining of the parameters of a double disk opener
Authors: Ergashev I T , Abdullaev B V , Pardaev Kh K
Published: August 2022

The article presents the calculation of the seed slots formed in the soil under the influence of double-disk opener and the determination of the geometric parameters of the double-disc opener of the device for direct sowing of seeds into the soil.
The effect of the ratio of peat and manure on the efficiency of the fermentation process
Authors: Fomicheva N V
Published: August 2022

Manure disposal is one of the main problems of livestock complexes. At the same time animal waste is a very important and valuable raw material in the production of organic fertilizers. The fermentation process was carried out for 6 days; the mesophilic regime was replaced by thermophilic, then the mesophilic period was again established. Air was supplied periodically. Various ratios of peat and manure were used - 40:60, 50:50, 60:40. In each version of the initial mixture, a favorable ratio of carbon to nitrogen was observed - C:N=20-25:1. However the determination of catalase and dehydrogenase activity made it possible to establish the optimal ratio of peat:manure=50:50, at which the value of C:N=22.7:1 and the best conditions are created for the vital activity of microorganisms and, accordingly, the activity of their enzymes. The maximum enzymatic activity contributed to the efficient transformation of organic raw materials. The same amount of manure and peat in the initial mixture contributed to a faster completion of the transformation of the fermented mixture, as evidenced by the redox coefficient in the fermentation product close to 1. With an equal ratio of the initial components, animal waste during the fermentation process is effectively processed into high-quality organic fertilizer.
Investigation of the drying process of moist materials under convective heat input conditions
Authors: Ergasheva Z K , Rakhmanova T T , Tarawade Abhijit , Sultonova S A , Safarov J E
Published: August 2022

One of the most important tasks of agricultural production is to obtain food products of plant origin, which include grain legumes, vegetables, fruits, etc. Long-term storage of many kinds of plants in their natural form under normal conditions is not possible and requires the use of processing, such as drying. A special niche is occupied by medicinal plants, on the basis of which medicinal preparations, biologically active additives (BAAs), as well as spices for food are produced. Nowadays, out of 100 thousand medicines used in the world medical practice, medicinal preparations made of plants make up more than 30%. In our country the share of such remedies and preparations is about 40%. In addition to natural methods of drying, artificial methods are widely used with the help of special drying units. This requires large amounts of electrical or thermal energy from fuel combustion, as more than 65,000 tonnes of medicinal raw materials are harvested in our country each year. It is not always possible to achieve the required product performance. The use of electric energy seems to be the most preferable, since it eliminates the costs of delivery, storage of solid or liquid fuel, reduces environmental damage, and obtains the necessary properties through “fine” control of the drying technology. Currently, farms and individual farms specialise in growing medicinal plants and supplying medicinal raw materials for homeopathic pharmacies and pharmacological industries. In this regard, improving drying methods and creating small capacity electric drying plants that ensure an efficient technological process and reduce the energy intensity of drying is an urgent task.
Lone black hole found wandering the Milky Way
Authors: Gater Will
Published: August 2022

Astronomers believe they have discovered the first “isolated” stellar-mass black hole wandering through interstellar space.
Magnetic crystals in the noses of salmon could aid navigation
Authors: Jarman Sam
Published: August 2022

Tiny crystals of iron-based magnetite have been found in cells in the noses of salmon, suggesting the fish use them to navigate by Earth’s magnetic field.
KATRIN sets neutrino mass limit
Authors: Blaustein Richard
Published: August 2022

Björn Lehnert from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory talks to Richard Blaustein about what a new measurement of the upper mass of the neutrino means for particle physics.
JET smashes fusion energy record
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: August 2022

The Joint European Torus has achieved 59 megajoules of fusion energy in a single fusion “shot”, more than doubling the previous record. Michael Banks reports.
Neutrino collaboration publishes green policy to help reduce emissions
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: August 2022

A planned neutrino project has published details of how it will reduce its carbon footprint over the coming decade.
International Year of Glass gets cracking in Geneva
Authors: Dacey James
Published: August 2022

The International Year of Glass opened in February at the Palace of Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.
New Dutch childcare programme to support ‘quantum mothers’
Authors: Boerkamp Martijn
Published: August 2022

Two Dutch organizations have teamed up to announce a programme to help new mothers continue working in quantum technologies.
New centre aims to limit satellite interference on observations
Authors: Gwynne Peter
Published: August 2022

The International Astronomical Union aims to co-ordinate international efforts to mitigate the impact of satellite constellations on optical and radio astronomy.
We need to rethink scientific awards
Authors: Wade Jess , Zaringhalam Maryam
Published: August 2022

Jess Wade and Maryam Zaringhalam say that prize processes must be reformed to avoid discrimination.
Disaster signalling
Authors: Crease Robert P
Published: August 2022

Robert P Crease wonders what lessons we can learn from movies about comets and asteroids heading towards Earth.
When a name is not just a name
Authors: Grozier Jim , Sharratt Ruth , Dalitz Rod , Bussey Peter , Trapp David
Published: August 2022

A response to Matin Durrani’s comment article “What’s in a name?”, which discusses the question of whether to rename projects and scientific terms that have been called after historical figures who might have held views we would now consider harmful.
Treatment in practice
Authors: Hare Helen
Published: August 2022

A response to Alexander Mendelsohn’s feature article “A physicist’s experience of the mental-health system”, which describes the author’s poor experience of treatment and explains his views that the system’s approach to researching mental illness and diagnosing and treating patients is not scientific, as compared with how physics research is done.
Preparing the quantum channels
Authors: Giblin Stephen
Published: August 2022

A response to Philip Ball’s feature article “Setting the scene for a quantum marketplace”, which discusses recent developments in the commercialization of quantum technologies and the question of whether the industry will live up to the hype surrounding it in the coming years.
Back to basics
Authors: Murnaghan David
Published: August 2022

A response to the special issue on quantum technologies, which explored various “quantum 2.0” technologies currently being developed and what impacts they might have if practical, more widely usable devices are achieved.
The body, exposed
Authors: Cartwright Jon
Published: August 2022

A new synchrotron-imaging technique is letting researchers create a “Google Earth” of the human body. Jon Cartwright zooms in.
The woman who found hydrogen in the stars
Authors: Perkowitz Sidney
Published: August 2022

Sidney Perkowitz delves into the work and life of Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, from her stellar astronomical findings to a career-long struggle with bias against women in the early 20th century.
The huge carbon footprint of large-scale computing
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: August 2022

Researchers have been able to cut their carbon footprint by jetting off to fewer international conferences, but physicists working on large-scale experiments may also have to consider the significant environmental impact of the computer power they require. Michael Allen investigates.
Technology with characters
Authors: Appell David
Published: August 2022

Andrew Robinson reviews Kingdom of Characters: a Tale of Language, Obsession and Genius in Modern China by Jing Tsu.
Covert ops with added science
Authors: Gardner Kate
Published: August 2022

Kate Gardner reviews The Curie Society by Heather Einhorn and Adam Staffaroni.
Industry or academia? How to choose your path
Authors: Zajac Joanna
Published: August 2022

After doing a PhD and postdoc in quantum technology, in the UK, Joanna Zajac spent three years in industry before returning to fundamental research. She now works as a quantum scientist at Brookhaven National Laboratory. So how do academia and industry differ and which one is right for you?
Ask me anything: Maksym Sich
Authors: Hiscott Laura
Published: August 2022

Maksym Sich is co-founder and chief executive of Aegiq, a quantum-photonics spinout company working on the development of secure quantum data communications and quantum photonics.
Plant roots amass nanoplastics, finds study
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: August 2022

Plastics accumulate mainly in the roots of a plant – rather than in its shoots – according to a new technique to quantify how plants take up plastic nanoparticles from the soil.
Drones used to recover meteorite rocks
Authors: Gater Will
Published: August 2022

Scientists in Western Australia have carried out the first recovery of an observed meteorite fall with the help of drones and machine-learning techniques.
Whistler waves shown to disappear close to the Sun
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: August 2022

An analysis of data from NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has revealed that electromagnetic “whistler waves” are unexpectedly absent from certain regions of the Sun’s upper atmosphere.
AI keeps fusion plasma in check
Authors: Cartlidge Edwin
Published: August 2022

A reinforcement-learning algorithm has managed to manipulate and control a high-temperature plasma in a tokamak. Edwin Cartlidge reports.
US Department of Justice reframes controversial China Initiative
Authors: Gwynne Peter
Published: August 2022

The US’s China Initiative has been expanded to focus not only on individual scientists with links to China but also on other foreign governments that may be attempting to acquire US technology through espionage and theft.
Setback for linear collider plans
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: August 2022

Prospects for the International Linear Collider in Japan are on hold as panel calls for project to be re-evaluated. Michael Banks reports.
Publication boost for LGBTQA scientists who disclose their identities at work
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: August 2022

LGBTQA scientists who hide their identities while at work have been found to produce fewer peer-reviewed publications than those who are more open about their sexuality and gender identity.
The problem with renewables
Authors: Edwards Peter , Dobson Peter , Owen Gari
Published: August 2022

Peter Edwards, Peter Dobson and Gari Owen say that net-zero targets can only be met if renewable energy can be stored cost-effectively.
Time crystals: the search for a new phase of matter
Authors: Roushan Pedram
Published: August 2022

Pedram Roushan, from Google’s Quantum AI team in California, describes this elusive form of matter – and how it could be simulated on the company’s Sycamore quantum processor.
Letting demons do the teaching
Authors: Crease Robert P
Published: August 2022

Smart and rebellious, demons have a long and rich history in both science and culture. Robert P Crease explains how these little creatures have inspired him to create a university course that should appeal to humanities and science students alike.
A giant of nanoscience
Authors: Wade Jess
Published: August 2022

Jess Wade reviews Carbon Queen: the Remarkable Life of Nanoscience Pioneer Mildred Dresselhaus by Maia Weinstock.
Using physics to patent inventions
Authors: Brown Katherine
Published: August 2022

Having originally done a PhD in quantum computing, Katherine Brown is now a patent attorney at international law firm CMS. She describes what a job in patent law entails and explains why a scientific background is an asset in this area.
Walking on the Moon
Authors: Hardwick John
Published: August 2022

Can physics tell us how easy it would be to climb a mountain in the Moon’s reduced gravity?
Elusive superconducting signature seen in cuprates
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: August 2022

Researchers in the US have observed the so-called “fourth signature” of superconducting phase transitions in a bismuth-based “cuprate”.
Planets in Alpha Centauri could be carbon-rich
Authors: Cooper Keith
Published: August 2022

A team of astronomers suggests that modelling the hypothetical mineralogy, interior structure and atmosphere of planets orbiting Sun-like stars in Alpha Centauri could predict if they are carbon-rich worlds.
Schwinger effect seen for the first time in graphene
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: August 2022

An international team of researchers has observed the Schwinger effect – the creation of matter in a strong electric field – in a device based on graphene superlattices.
Physics community continues clampdown on Russian state
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: August 2022

In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some 15 scientific publishers, including IOP Publishing, have suspended sales and marketing of products and services to research organizations in Russia and Belarus.