bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of selenization temperature on structure and optical band gap of MoSe2 thin film
Authors: Wu Shi-Man , Tao Si-Min , Ji Ai-Chuang , Guan Shao-Hang , Xiao Jian-Rong ,   School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, China
Published: September 2024

In recent years, MoSe2, as a kind of transition metal dichalcogenide, has aroused widespread research interest due to its special crystal structure with different electrical and optical properties. The band gap of molybdenum diselenide can be manipulated by different layers, strain engineering, doping, or the formation of heterostructures, which makes it potential advantages in optoelectronic devices and photovoltaic applications. In this work, we investigate the influence of selenization temperature on the structures and optical properties of the MoSe2 films. Molybdenum (Mo) thin films are prepared by RF magnetron sputtering, and then MoSe2 thin films are generated by selenization annealing. The surface morphology, crystal structure, and optical bandgap for each of the MoSe2 thin films are characterized and analyzed by using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and ultraviolet visible spectroscopy, respectively. The results show that the crystal structures of the MoSe2 thin films are closely related to the selenization temperature (Ts): with the increase of selenization temperature, the average grain size in the thin film decreases slightly and then increases rapidly from 24.82 nm to 55.76 nm. Meanwhile, the (002) crystal plane of MoSe2 also exhibits preferential growth with temperature increasing. Each MoSe2 thin film has a low absorption rate for short-wavelength light (around 600 nm). With the increase of selenization temperature, the bandgap waves of the MoSe2 thin films are blue-shifted, and the optical bandgaps decrease, which is attributed to the fact that different selenization temperatures cause the lattice size of MoSe2 to change, thereby affecting the spatial expansion of its electronic wave function. In addition, the structure and optical bandgap of MoSe2 can be effectively controlled by changing the selenization temperature, which provides more possibilities for the applications of the MoSe2 thin films in optical devices.
Ion implantation induced nucleation and epitaxial growth of high-quality AlN
Authors: Yu Sen , Xu Sheng-Rui , Tao Hong-Chang , Wang Hai-Tao , An Xia , Yang He , Xu Kang , Zhang Jin-Cheng , Hao Yue ,   State Key Laboratory of Wide-Bandgap Semiconductor Devices and Integrated Technology, National Engineering Research Center of Wide Band-gap Semiconductor, School of Microelectronics, Xidian University, Xi’an 710071, China,   Guangzhou Institute of Technology, Xidian University, Guangzhou 510555, China,   Shaanxi Power Semiconductor Device Lighting Engineering Technology Research Center, Xi’an 710071, China
Published: September 2024

AlN materials have a wide range of applications in the fields of optoelectronic, power electronic, and radio frequency. However, the significant lattice mismatch and thermal mismatch between heteroepitaxial AlN and its substrate lead to a high threading dislocation (TD) density, thereby degrading the performance of device. In this work, we introduce a novel, cost-effective, and stable approach to epitaxially growing AlN. We inject different doses of nitrogen ions into nano patterned sapphire substrates, and then deposit the AlN layers by using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition. Ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV-LED) with a luminescence wavelength of 395 nm is fabricated on it, and the optoelectronic properties are evaluated. Compared with the sample prepared by the traditional method, the sample injected with N ions at a dose of 1×1013 cm–2 exhibits an 82% reduction in screw TD density, the lowest surface roughness, and a 52% increase in photoluminescence intensity. It can be seen that appropriate dose of N ion implantation can promote the lateral growth and merging process in AlN heteroepitaxy. This is due to the fact that the process of implantation of N ions can suppress the tilt and twist of the nucleation islands, effectively reducing the density of TDs in AlN. Furthermore, in comparison with the controlled LED, the LED prepared on the high quality AlN template increases 63.8% and 61.7% in light output power and wall plug efficiency, respectively. The observed enhancement in device performance is attributed to the TD density of the epitaxial layer decreasing, which effectively reduces the nonradiative recombination centers. In summary, this study indicates that the ion implantation can significantly improve the quality of epitaxial AlN, thereby facilitating the development of high-performance AlN-based UV-LEDs.
Performance of perovskite solar cells based on SnO2:DPEPO hybrid electron transport layer
Authors: Juan Ting , Xing Jia-He , Zeng Fan-Cong , Zheng Xin , Xu Lin ,   Changchun University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Changchun 130607, China,   State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
Published: September 2024

The electron transport layer is an important functional layer of perovskite solar cells, and its surface and internal defects are critical parts of limiting the performance improvement of perovskite solar cells. The double electron transport layer (double ETL) strategy can effectively passivate inherent defects in the electron transport layer (such as SnO2) and improve electron extraction and transport between the functional layers, providing an effective way for developing efficient and stable PSCs. However, due to the existence of independent interfaces in the dual ETL, the cell mismatch in different ETL materials also leads to additional carrier defects, hindering the continuous advancement of the dual ETL strategy. This work proposes a strategy for introducing di[2-((oxo)diphenylphosphino)phenyl]ether (DPEPO) into SnO2 ETL to design a hybrid electron transport layer strategy. Using the hole-blocking effect of DPEPO, which has a higher HOMO energy level and good ability to transfer electrons, the intrinsic defects in SnO2 are successfully passivated, while significantly improving the crystalline quality of the SnO2 film surface. So, avoiding the direct contact between the perovskite photoactive layer and the conductive substrate can effectively improve the extraction and transport of electrons. Due to the preparation of high-quality electron transport layer, the crystallization regulation of perovskite thin film is further achieved, thereby improving the performance of perovskite solar cells. Finally, 21.53% of the power conversion rate is obtained, the open-circuit voltage (VOC) reaches 1.220 V, the short-circuit current (JSC) is 23.19 mA/cm2, and the fill factor (FF) is 76.11%. This efficiency is 1.39% higher than that of the control one. It is shown that the hybrid electron transport layer strategy can not only optimize the carrier transport dynamics efficiently and reduce the device performance affected by the defects in the functional layer significantly, but also regulate the perovskite crystallization, which has the prospect for preparing high-performance solar cells.
μSR experimental progress and trends of developing muon facilities
Authors: Wang Ying , Shu Lei ,   State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics, Department of Physics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China,   Shanghai Research Center for Quantum Sciences, Shanghai 201315, China
Published: September 2024

Muon spin relaxation/rotation (μSR) is a highly sensitive technique for investigating magnetic properties on an atomic scale. With the continuous development of this technique, the researches in condensed matter physics have been significantly promoted. Firstly, this article introduces the advantages and uniqueness of μSR technique, followed by several recent progress contributed by μSR in the field of condensed matter physics, including revealing the magnetic ground state of superconducting nickelates La3Ni2O7 and (R, Sr)NiO2, the investigation into the charge density wave in kagome lattice superconductor AV3Sb5 (A = K, Rb), identifying the magnetic droplets immersed in a sea of quantum spin liquid ground state in NaYbSe2, and the exploration of magnetic monopole near a magnetoelectric surface of Cr2O3. Finally, this article summarizes the current construction status and upgrade plans of muon facilities in the world.
Research on vibrational features of CL-20/MTNP cocrystal by terahertz spectroscopy
Authors: Liu Quan-Cheng , Yang Fu , Zhang Qi , Duan Yong-Wei , Deng Hu , Shang Li-Ping ,   School of Information Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621000, China,   Institute of Chemical Materials, China Academy of Engineering Physics, Mianyang 621050, China,   Tianfu Institute of Research and Innovation, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Chengdu 610299, China
Published: September 2024

Cocrystals represent an effective method to manipulate the physicochemical properties of materials at a molecular level. However, understanding the relationship between their complex crystal structures and macroscopic properties is a challenge. In this paper, by using terahertz (THz) spectroscopy to characterize non-covalent interactions within crystals, the THz vibrational spectra of the CL-20/MTNP cocrystal are studied. Firstly, the THz spectra of CL-20, MTNP, and the CL-20/MTNP cocrystal are measured at room temperature. Both absorption positions and intensities of the cocrystals differ from those of their original components, confirming the unique advantage of terahertz spectroscopy in cocrystal identification. Secondly, the THz vibrational features of the three materials are calculated based on density functional theory (DFT). Then, the experimental absorptions are matched with the calculated vibrations. Furthermore, a vibrational decomposition method is employed to decompose the molecular vibrations into intermolecular and intramolecular vibrations. The vibrational variations of the cocrystal compared with its original components are analyzed. The results reveal that in the cocrystal, the intermolecular vibrational modes of both CL-20 and MTNP molecules have changed compared with their raw materials. This indicates that the non-covalent interactions in the cocrystal have changed the original intermolecular interactions of these molecules. Consequently, this enhancement promotes the heat transfer between MTNP and CL-20 molecules, thereby improving the thermal stability of the cocrystal. These findings in this study demonstrate that the THz vibrational spectroscopy technology helps establish a relationship between the molecular structure of cocrystal and its macroscopic properties. This research contributes to deepening our understanding of cocrystal systems and opens up a new way for designing and optimizing materials.
Geometry and electronic structures of rare earth-doped boron-based clusters \begin{document}$ {\text{REB}}_n^ - $\end{document} (RE = La, Sc; n = 6, 8)
Authors: Chen Zi-Jun , Li Hui-Fang , Xie Zhen-Ming , Zhang Yong-Hang , Zheng Hao , Jiang Kai-Le , Zhang Bo , Zhang Jia-Ming , Wang Huai-Qian ,   College of Engineering, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou 362021, China,   College of Information Science and Engineering, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China
Published: September 2024

Rare earth doped boron clusters have attracted much attention due to their special optical, electrical and magnetic properties. The geometric structures, stability, electronic properties and aromaticity of negative rare earth doped boron clusters \begin{document}$ {\text{REB}}_n^ - $\end{document} (RE = La, Sc; n = 6, 8) are investigated with the artificial bee colony algorithm combined with density functional theory calculations at the PBE0/RE/SDD//B/6-311+G* level of theory. Calculations show that the ground state structures of \begin{document}$ {\text{REB}}_n^ - $\end{document} (RE = La, Sc; n = 6, 8) are all of C2 symmetry, and the doped lanthanide atom is located in a “boat-shaped” structure at the top center. By comparing with the experimental photoelectron spectra, it is confirmed that the ground state structure of \begin{document}$ {\text{LaB}}_{8}^ - $\end{document} is a “zither-like” three-dimensional structure, and the ground state structure of \begin{document}$ {\text{ScB}}_{8}^ - $\end{document} is an “umbrella” structure with C7v symmetry formed by the scandium atom at the “umbrella handle”. The electron localization between RE—B is not as good as that between B—B. The simulated photoelectron spectra have similar spectral characteristics to the experimental results. The lowest energy structures of \begin{document}$ {\text{LaB}}_{6}^ - $\end{document} and \begin{document}$ {\text{ScB}}_{6}^ - $\end{document} are σ-π double aromatic clusters, and the structures exhibit aromaticity. The density of states of low-energy isomers shows that the open shell \begin{document}$ {\text{ScB}}_{8}^ - $\end{document} density of states spectrum exhibits spin polarization phenomenon, which is expected to assemble magnetic material components. These studies contribute to understanding the evolution of structure and properties of nanomaterials, and provide important theoretical support for designing nanomaterials with practical value.
Resonant inelastic X-ray scattering applications in quantum materials
Authors: Zhou Ke-Jin ,   Diamond Light Source, Harwell Campus, Didcot OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
Published: September 2024

The essence of quantum materials lies in the intricate coupling among charge, spin, orbital and lattice degrees of freedom. Although X-ray photoemission spectroscopy and inelastic neutron scattering have advantages in detecting fermionic single-particle spectral function and bosonic spin excitations in quantum materials, respectively, probing other bosonic collective excitations especially their coupling is not possible until the establishment of the advanced resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS). In the past decades, RIXS has flourished with continuously improved energy resolution which made a paradigm shift from measuring crystal-field splitting and the charge-transfer excitation, to probing collective excitations and the order parameters of all degrees of freedom. This review paper summarises the latest research progress of quantum materials studied by the soft X-ray RIXS. For instance, three-dimensional collective charge excitations, plasmons, were discovered experimentally by RIXS in both electron and hole doped cuprate superconductors. The collective orbital excitations and excitons were found in copper and nickel based quantum materials. For the newly discovered nickelate superconductors, RIXS has made substantial contributions to characterising their electronic and magnetic excitations and the related ordering phenomena critical for an in-depth understanding of the underlying superconducting mechanicsm. The RIXS is a unique tool in probing the higher-order spin excitations in quantum materials due to the strong spin-orbit coupling and the core-valence exchange interaction. The RIXS is also found to be superior in probing the Stoner magnetic excitations in magnetic metals and topological magnetic materials. Finally, the development of RIXS technology in Chinese large-scale research facilities is briefly prospected.
Analysis of nanobubble collapse process by molecular simulation method
Authors: Zhang Xue-Song , Fan Zhen-Zhong , Tong Qi-Lei , Fu Yuan-Feng ,   Key Laboratory of Enhanced Oil and Gas Recovery, Ministry of Education, Northeast Petroleum University, Daqing 163318, China
Published: September 2024

This study employs molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the process of nanobubble gradual indentation and eventual collapse. The research primarily focuses on the mechanisms by which impact velocity and bubble size influence the dynamic characteristics of nanobubble collapse. The results indicate that nanobubble collapse generally proceeds through three stages. Initially, there is a compression phase of water molecules surrounding the bubble, followed by a phase where the shock wave disrupts the stable structure of the liquid film, and finally, the complete collapse of the bubble. At higher impact velocities, smaller bubbles collapse more rapidly due to stronger shock effects. Post-collapse, a high-speed jet forms a protrusion on the right end of the velocity contour. The degree of protrusion increases with bubble size and impact velocity. Water molecules converge towards the bubble center, forming vortex structures above and below the bubble, effectively enhancing internal mass transfer. As bubble size and impact velocity increase, the density around the bubble gradually rises, reaching approximately 1.5 g/cm³ in localized areas upon complete collapse. When the bubble system decays to half its original size, a water hammer effect occurs. This effect becomes more pronounced with increasing bubble size and impact velocity. For a nanobubble structure with up = 3.0 km/s and D = 10 nm, the local pressure formed by the water hammer impact of the jet after collapse can reach 30 GPa.
Quantitative mapping of proteasome interactomes and substrates using ProteasomeID
Authors: Bartolome Aleksandar , Heiby Julia C , Di Fraia Domenico , Heinze Ivonne , Knaudt Hannah , Spaeth Ellen , Omrani Omid , Minetti Alberto , Hofmann Maleen , Kirkpatrick Joanna M , Dau Therese , Ori Alessandro
Published: September 2024

Proteasomes are essential molecular machines responsible for the degradation of proteins in eukaryotic cells. Altered proteasome activity has been linked to neurodegeneration, auto-immune disorders and cancer. Despite the relevance for human disease and drug development, no method currently exists to monitor proteasome composition and interactions in vivo in animal models. To fill this gap, we developed a strategy based on tagging of proteasomes with promiscuous biotin ligases and generated a new mouse model enabling the quantification of proteasome interactions by mass spectrometry. We show that biotin ligases can be incorporated in fully assembled proteasomes without negative impact on their activity. We demonstrate the utility of our method by identifying novel proteasome-interacting proteins, charting interactomes across mouse organs, and showing that proximity-labeling enables the identification of both endogenous and small-molecule-induced proteasome substrates.
The critical elements of the health system that could make for resilience in the World Health Organization African Region: a scoping review
Authors: Chamla Dick , Iwu-Jaja Chinwe , Jaca Anelisa , Ndlambe Asiphe Mavi , Buwa Muyunda , Idemili-Aronu Ngozi , Okeibunor Joseph , Wiysonge Charles Shey , Gueye Abdou Salam
Published: September 2024

Background

Unpredictable events, such as the outbreak of infectious diseases and humanitarian crises, are putting a strain on health care systems. As a result, African countries will need to prepare themselves with appropriate strategies to withstand such occurrences. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review was to map available evidence about what type and what components of health systems are needed to help countries cope with health emergencies and to foster health system resilience in the WHO African Region.

Methods

A systematic search was performed independently in Scopus and PubMed electronic databases as well as grey literature. Studies were selected based on set eligibility criteria based on the Joanna Brigg’s Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews. The key findings were focused on health system resilience and were mapped based on the WHO’s core health system components. Our data were tabulated, and a narrative synthesis was conducted.

Results

A total of 28 studies were included in this scoping review, mostly conducted in the WHO African Region and region of the Americas. Studies focused on a variety of strategies, such as the continuous delivery of essential services, the strengthening of the health workforce, including community health care workers, community engagement, the provision of protective mechanisms for the health workforce, and flexible leadership and governance measures.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that strategies to improve health system resilience must include all areas of the healthcare delivery process, including primary care. A resilient health system should be ready for a crisis and have adaptable policies in place to offer adequate response at all levels, as well as post-recovery planning. Such health systems should also seek for continuous improvement. More research is needed to assess the efficacy of initiatives for improving health system resilience, particularly in vulnerable African health systems.
Contabilidade 4.0: o profissional contábil frente à contabilidade do futuro
Authors: Guimarães Emilly Silva , Assis Pablo Roberto de , Santana Edenilton , Maia Junior Almeciano José , Estival Katianny Gomes Santana , Corrêa Solange Rodrigues dos Santos
Published: September 2024

A evolução da contabilidade é fruto de causas sociais e econômicas da sociedade a qual está inserida. Um breve levantamento histórico comprova que a profissão contábil foi promissora e necessária frente às evoluções. Diante disso, cita-se a evolução da era digital e da contabilidade 4.0 a qual surgiu após a 4ª Revolução Industrial e que vivenciamos nos dias de hoje com a inserção da TI (tecnologia da informação) e da IA (inteligência artificial). Esse artigo também aborda qual deverá ser o posicionamento do contador perante toda essa inovação tecnológica e como ele deve se sobressair diante das inovações. Ademais, o presente trabalho tem como propósito apresentar através de um estudo bibliográfico com embasamento teórico, as principais habilidades e competências que um profissional deve desenvolver a fim de exercer com maestria a profissão a qual escolheu e se especializou. Dentre as mais listadas pelos estudos estão à aplicação de um posicionamento crítico-analítico, com rápida absorção para solucionar problemas e melhor convivência com ferramentas tecnológicas. Bem como, o profissional contábil deve ter amplo conhecimento e domínio sobre as funções contábeis, além da capacidade de se adaptar com aprendizagem continua dentre os mais diversos meios de organização, o que possibilita melhor compreensão entre os fatos de um futuro cheio de incertezas.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Supervisory Management Strategies for Pod Fly, Melanagromyza obtusa in Pigeonpea
Authors: Kannihalli Saleemali , Jeevan Narayanaswamy , M Sahana , K B Chethan Kumar , Sathish Karan , M Shankar
Published: September 2024

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2019-20 at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Kalaburagi, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India to assess supervisory management strategies for pod fly in pigeonpea variety TS 3R sown on different dates viz., 20-07-2019, 05-08-2019 and 20-08-2019. In protected plots, pod fly was managed by spraying insecticides recommended in package of practices i.e., Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.20 ml + jaggary 10 g l-1 as first spray at 10 days after pod formation and second spray with Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.2 g + jaggary 10 g l-1 at 15 days after first spray with additional sprays as needed based on the damage. First spraying was done based on the incidence of pod fly i.e., when the seed damage due to pod fly crossed 5%. Subsequent sprays were taken up on need basis at 15 days interval whenever seed damage crossed 5%. Present study revealed that the protected plots had significantly lower pod and seed damage compared to unprotected plots and the need-based application of recommended chemicals effectively controlled pod fly in crop sown on 20th July. However, crops sown on 5th August and 20th August faced higher pest pressure and required three sprays, indicating that late planted crops are more susceptible to pod fly infestations and may need additional treatments to manage the increased pest load.
Nigerian Tax System and Economic Development
Authors: J. A. Demehin,
Published: September 2024

Efficient taxation system is a necessity for economic growth and development of a country. While taxes such as personal income and sales taxes can have direct negative effect on the welfare of the people by reducing disposable income while it can increase revenue for the government. This study examined how revenue from taxation, namely, company income tax less (CINT), customs and excise duties (CUED), education tax (EDUT) personal income tax, PITX, (apart from PAYE), petroleum profit tax (PPT) and value added taxes (VATR) affect the country’s economic development from 1995 to 2023. Economic development was captured from two angles, GDP per capita and gross fixed capital formation (GFCF).
The study used some preliminary tests to determine the properties of the variables and the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) technique to analyze the data for the effect of dependent and independent variables. Two models were developed to address the two perspectives from which economic development were measured by the researcher.
On the effect of tax on GPDPPC, CINT, CUED, EDUT and PPT have positive and significant effect on GDP Per Capita (coefficients = 0.453196, 0.100308, 0.21304 and 0.265514, and p = 0.0306, 0.0237, 0.0341 and 0.0000 respectively). In contrast, PITX and VATR exhibited a negative but insignificant effect on GDP. Oh how taxation affected the GFCF, while PITX had a negative and significant effect (coefficient = -22.75400, p = 0.038), VATR had a positive and significant effect on GFCF (coefficient = 56.95707, p = 0.0041).
The study recommends that the government should continue to improve the efficiency of corporate tax collection to maximize revenue, allocate corporate tax revenues towards infrastructure development, healthcare, and education, support and protect local industries by maintaining and strategically adjusting customs and excise duties and ensure that education tax revenues are efficiently used to enhance the quality of education at all levels. We also advocate increased efforts to improve personal income tax compliance and appraisal of the impact of VAT on different income groups and consider adjustments that can make the tax system more equitable without significantly harming consumption and economic growth.
Prediction of Financial Distress Using Dynamic Artificial Neural Network for Early Warning System
Authors: Nyabera Abel M. , Ikamari Cynthia , Mocheche George
Published: September 2024

In Kenya's economic landscape, financial hardship is a growing concern, leading to the closure of organizations as they are unable to meet their financial obligations and expectations. This study presents a financial distress prediction dynamic model using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) using financial ratios as input features where each node represents a single financial metric utilizing there power in measuring financial health of an organization to address this issue. The perceived dynamic ANN model, which is modeled to be adaptable, scalarable and adjustable with the ability self-update its architectures and parameters achieved a 94% accuracy, with strong recall and precision of 92% showing predicted financially distressed instances that were actually distressed. Further, the model demonstrated an ROC-AUC score of 0.99, demonstrating its effectiveness in distinguishing between distressed and non-distressed instances. The model's balanced F1 score of 87% further highlights its value as an Early Warning System (EWS) for financial management, helping organizations make informed decisions and avoid financial crises.
Survey for the Incidence of Fusarium wilt in Sunhemp in the Regions of Dharwad and Haveri Districts of Karnataka
Authors: B H Nithya S. Raju , H S Chandana , Veershetty  , K B Chethan Kumar , S K Prajwal , Machanoor Aditya V
Published: September 2024

Fusarium wilt, caused by the fungal pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum, is a major disease affecting a wide range of crops, leading to significant yield losses globally. This study was conducted to assess the incidence of Fusarium wilt across three distinct locations: College of Agriculture (CoA), University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Dharwad, Agricultural Research Station (ARS), Mugad and College of Agriculture, Hanumanamatti. A systematic survey was carried out during the cropping season, where the prevalence and severity of the disease were recorded in various fields at each location. The data collected included soil type, percentage of infected plants, the extent of wilting symptoms, and occurrence of other diseases. The survey results indicated that, the highest incidence of disease was recorded in G and F block (43.67 %) followed by B block (9.71 %) at UAS Campus, in Dharwad district and lowest incidence was recorded from COA, Hanumanamatti (7.33 %) in Haveri district. The differences in disease incidence were attributed to variations in environmental conditions, crop management practices, and soil health. Understanding the distribution and factors influencing Fusarium wilt can aid in developing effective management strategies to mitigate its impact on crop production. Further research is needed to explore resistant varieties and improved agronomic practices to control Fusarium wilt in these regions.
Direct measurement of hairpin‐like vortices in the bottom boundary layer of the coastal ocean
Authors: Steele Edward C. C. , Nimmo‐Smith W. Alex M. , Vlasenko Andrey
Published: January 2016

Laboratory measurements and numerical modeling at low Reynolds numbers (Reθ<7700) indicate the energy‐containing turbulence of boundary layer flows comprises coherent packets of hairpin vortices. Here direct measurements in the bottom boundary layer of the coastal ocean at higher Reynolds numbers (Reθ = 266,150) show tidal flows also contain packets of large vortices separated by periods of more quiescent conditions. The 1452 vortices recorded within a 20 min period are typically aligned along stream (∼8.0° from the mean flow direction) and inclined to the horizontal (∼27.0° from the seabed), with a mean period of occurrence of 4.3 s. These results lend three‐dimensional, in situ support to an interpretation of the coastal ocean bottom boundary layer as comprising coherent packets of hairpin vortices. This demonstrates a direct linkage from low Reynolds number experiments to higher Reynolds number flows, permitting fine‐scale details of particle transport and pollutant dispersion to be inferred from lower Reynolds number data.
Slip segmentation and slow rupture to the trench during the 2015, Mw8.3 Illapel, Chile earthquake
Authors: Melgar Diego , Fan Wenyuan , Riquelme Sebastian , Geng Jianghui , Liang Cunren , Fuentes Mauricio , Vargas Gabriel , Allen Richard M. , Shearer Peter M. , Fielding Eric J.
Published: January 2016

The 2015 Mw8.3 Illapel, Chile earthquake is the latest megathrust event on the central segment of that subduction zone. It generated strong ground motions and a large (up to 11 m runup) tsunami which prompted the evacuation of more than 1 million people in the first hours following the event. Observations during recent earthquakes suggest that these phenomena can be associated with rupture on different parts of the megathrust. The deep portion generates strong shaking while slow, large slip on the shallow fault is responsible for the tsunami. It is unclear whether all megathrusts can have shallow slip during coseismic rupture and what physical properties regulate this. Here we show that the Illapel event ruptured both deep and shallow segments with substantial slip. We resolve a kinematic slip model using regional geophysical observations and analyze it jointly with teleseismic backprojection. We find that the shallow and deep portions of the megathrust are segmented and have fundamentally different behavior. We forward calculate local tsunami propagation from the resolved slip and find good agreement with field measurements, independently validating the slip model. These results show that the central portion of the Chilean subduction zone has accumulated a significant shallow slip deficit and indicates that, given enough time, shallow slip might be possible everywhere along the subduction zone.
Hemispheric asymmetry in transition from equatorial plasma bubble to blob as deduced from 630.0 nm airglow observations at low latitudes
Authors: Park Jaeheung , Martinis Carlos R. , Lühr Hermann , Pfaff Robert F. , Kwak Young‐Sil
Published: January 2016

Transitions from depletions to enhancements of 630.0 nm nighttime airglow have been observed at Arecibo. Numerical simulations by Krall et al. (2009) predicted that they should occur only in one hemisphere, which has not yet been confirmed observationally. In this study we investigate the hemispheric conjugacy of the depletion‐to‐enhancement transition using multiple instruments. We focus on one event observed in the American longitude sector on 22 December 2014: 630.0 nm airglow depletions evolved into enhancements in the Northern Hemisphere while the evolution did not occur in the conjugate location in the Southern Hemisphere. Concurrent plasma density measured by low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and 777.4 nm airglow images support that the depletions and enhancements of 630.0 nm nighttime airglow reflect plasma density decreases and increases (blobs), respectively. Characteristics of the airglow depletions, in the context of the LEO satellite data, further suggest that the plasma density depletion deduced from the airglow data represents equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) rather than medium‐scale traveling ionospheric disturbances from midlatitudes. Hence, the event in this study can be interpreted as EPB‐to‐blob transition.
Increasing concentrations of iron in surface waters as a consequence of reducing conditions in the catchment area
Authors: Ekström Sara M. , Regnell Olof , Reader Heather E. , Nilsson P. Anders , Löfgren Stefan , Kritzberg Emma S.
Published: January 2016

Recent studies report trends of strongly increasing iron (Fe) concentrations in freshwaters. Since Fe is a key element with a decisive role in the biogeochemical cycling of major elements, it is important to understand the mechanisms behind these trends. We hypothesized that variations in Fe concentration are driven mainly by redox dynamics in hydraulically connected soils. Notably, Fe(III), which is the favored oxidation state except in environments where microbial activity provide strong reducing intensity, has several orders of magnitude lower water solubility than Fe(II). To test our hypothesis, seasonal variation in water chemistry, discharge, and air temperature was studied in three Swedish rivers. Methylmercury and sulfate were used as indicators of seasonal redox changes. Seasonal variability in water chemistry, discharge, and air temperature in the Emån and Lyckeby Rivers implied that the variation in Fe was primarily driven by the prevalence of reducing conditions in the catchment. In general, high Fe concentrations were observed when methylmercury was high and sulfate was low, indicative of reducing conditions. The Fe concentrations showed no or weak relationships with variations in dissolved organic matter concentration and aromaticity. The seasonal variation in Fe concentration of the Ume river was primarily dependent on timing of the snowmelt in high‐ versus low‐altitude areas of the catchment. There were long‐term trends of increasing temperature in all catchments and also trends of increasing discharge in the southern rivers, which should increase the probability for anaerobic conditions in space and time and thereby increase Fe transport to the aquatic systems.
Recent Advances in Pen‐Based Writing Electronics and their Emerging Applications
Authors: Li Zedong , Liu Hao , Ouyang Cheng , Hong Wee Wei , Cui Xingye , Jian Lu Tian , Pingguan‐Murphy Belinda , Li Fei , Xu Feng
Published: January 2016

The emerging demand for cost‐effective, easily accessible, and rapid prototyping electronics fabrication calls for novel techniques to design and manufacture electronic components and devices for wearable functional sensing, on‐skin medical monitoring, and body‐worn energy conversion. Inspired by daily hand‐writing, innovative and ubiquitously available pens can be employed to write conductive patterns on multiple substrates; such a low‐cost, fast, and user‐friendly direct writing paradigm has recently aroused remarkable research interest as a promising electronics prototyping strategy. In this review, state‐of‐art advances in techniques for direct writing of electronics are presented, and pros and cons of each fabrication route are discussed. Emerging applications of pen‐based writing electronics are also summarized. Based on these, final conclusions, limitations and challenges, as well as ongoing perspectives are illustrated.
Toward Ambient Armor: Can New Materials Change Longstanding Concepts of Projectile Protection?
Authors: Liu Pingwei , Strano Michael S.
Published: January 2016

Materials that protect against the high strain rate loading of a projectile have traditionally been constrained by their use on the target of protection. Here the possibility of new materials, particularly carbon nanocomposites, are explored for projectile protection removed off of the target and placed along the trajectory at an intermediate location. A mathematical model of such Ambient Armor (AA) separates the impact, capture, and energy dissipation of an incident projectile into each of three stages, respectively. A distinct scaling of the projectile to composite area ratio and areal density ratio is derived for a given requisite stopping distance. As an example, the model predicts that a 1 g and 800 m s21 small projectile could be decelerated to 3 m s21 within 6–9 m using a 2.34 3 104 layer monolayer graphene nanocomposite at 0.02 volume fraction. For larger projectiles with higher kinetic energy, a tandem system using a second composite body with the specified area density is explored with the idea of making the projectile gyroscopically unstable for rapid deceleration and subsequent interception. Off target reinforcement or AA may in general allow for the exploration of a broader range of material properties for projectile protection.
Three‐dimensional structure, binding, and spectroscopic characteristics of the monoclonal antibody 43.1 directed to the carboxyphenyl moiety of fluorescein
Authors: Gayda Susan , Longenecker Kenton L. , Judge Russell A. , Swift Kerry M. , Manoj Sharmila , Linthicum D. Scott , Tetin Sergey Y.
Published: January 2016

Unlike other known anti‐fluorescein antibodies, the monoclonal antibody 43.1 is directed toward the fluorescein's carboxyl phenyl moiety. It demonstrates a very high affinity (KD ∼ 70 pM) and a fast association rate (kon ∼ 2 × 107 M−1 s−1). The three‐dimensional structure of the Fab 43.1—fluorescein complex was resolved at 2.4 Å resolution. The antibody binding site is exclusively assembled by the CDR loops. It is comprised of a 14 Å groove‐shaped entrance leading to a 9 Å by 7 Å binding pocket. The highly polar binding pocket complementary encloses the fluorescein's carboxyphenyl moiety and tightly fixes it by multiple hydrogen bonds. The fluorescein's xanthene ring is embedded in the more hydrophobic groove and stacked between the side chains of Tyr37L and of Arg99H providing conditions for an excited state electron transfer process. In comparison to fluorescein, the absorption spectrum of the complex in the visible region is shifted to the “red” by 23 nm. The complex demonstrates a very weak fluorescence (Φc = 0.0018) with two short lifetime components: 0.03 ns (47%) and 0.8 ns (24%), which reflects a 99.8% fluorescein emission quenching effect upon complex formation. The antibody 43.1 binds fluorescein with remarkable affinity, fast association rate, and strongly quenches its emission. Therefore, it may present a practical interest in applications such as molecular sensors and switches. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 105: 234–243, 2016.
Silk fibroin film from golden‐yellow Bombyx mori is a biocomposite that contains lutein and promotes axonal growth of primary neurons
Authors: Pistone Assunta , Sagnella Anna , Chieco Camilla , Bertazza Gianpaolo , Varchi Greta , Formaggio Francesco , Posati Tamara , Saracino Emanuela , Caprini Marco , Bonetti Simone , Toffanin Stefano , Di Virgilio Nicola , Muccini Michele , Rossi Federica , Ruani Giampiero , Zamboni Roberto , Benfenati Valentina
Published: January 2016

The use of doped silk fibroin (SF) films and substrates from Bombyx mori cocoons for green nanotechnology and biomedical applications has been recently highlighted. Cocoons from coloured strains of B. mori, such as Golden‐Yellow, contain high levels of pigments that could have a huge potential for the fabrication of SF based biomaterials targeted to photonics, optoelectronics and neuroregenerative medicine. However, the features of extracted and regenerated SF from cocoons of B. mori Golden‐Yellow strain have never been reported. Here we provide a chemophysical characterization of regenerated silk fibroin (RSF) fibers, solution, and films obtained from cocoons of a Golden‐Yellow strain of B. mori, by SEM, 1H‐NMR, HPLC, FT‐IR, Raman and UV‐Vis spectroscopy. We found that the extracted solution and films from B. mori Golden‐Yellow fibroin displayed typical Raman spectroscopic and optical features of carotenoids. HPLC‐analyses revealed that lutein was the carotenoid contained in the fiber and RSF biopolymer from yellow cocoons. Notably, primary neurons cultured on yellow SF displayed a threefold higher neurite length than those grown of white SF films. The results we report pave the way to expand the potential use of yellow SF in the field of neuroregenerative medicine and provide green chemistry approaches in biomedicine. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 105: 287–299, 2016.
Solvatochromic and Photochromic Behavior of Spiropyran‐cored PAMAM Dendron and Cu2+‐Selective Sensing
Authors: Hur Dae Young , Shin Eun Ju
Published: January 2016

Spiropyran‐cored polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrons (SP‐PAMAMs) were prepared and their solvatochromic and photochromic properties investigated. As with simple merocyanine (MC), MC‐PAMAM shows negative solvatochromism. On UV irradiation, colorless SP‐PAMAM transforms into colored MC‐PAMAM and the reaction occurs a little faster in a more polar solvent. In the dark, MC‐PAMAM returns to SP‐PAMAM much more slowly in a more polar solvent. On addition of Cu2+, the color of SP‐PAMAM solution in acetonitrile changes from colorless to orange, whereas neither color change nor absorption spectral changes are observed with the addition of other metal cations.
Characterization of the Glycan Structures of GlycoproteinGA733‐Fc Expressed in a Baculovirus‐Insect Cell System
Authors: Qiao Lu , Lee Kyung Jin , Ko Kisung
Published: January 2016

Baculovirus‐insect cell systems have been used to express functional recombinant biopharmaceutical proteins. TwopFastBacDual vectors carrying the gene encoding antigenGA733, a cell‐surface glycoprotein, fused to theIgGFc (GA733‐Fc) orKDEL(endoplasmic reticulum [ER] retention sequence) (GA733‐FcK) genes were constructed to generate baculoviruses expressing the corresponding recombinant proteins in insect cells. The expression of the recombinantGA733‐Fc andGA733‐FcKproteins and their glycan structure profiles were assessed under various conditions by analyzing the cell line (Sf9 and High Five), the postinfection (PI) time (48, 72, and 96 h), and the harvested sample (cell culture media [CM] or cell lysate [CL]). Immunoblotting showed nonidentical expression of bothGA733‐Fc andGA733‐FcKunder various conditions. Glycosylation analysis revealed that varying conditions affected the glycan structure profiles. These results suggest that thePItime, subcellular localization, and cell type affect recombinant protein expression as well as glycosylation in the baculovirus‐insect cell system.
SCAI Expert consensus statement: Evaluation, management, and special considerations of cardio‐oncology patients in the cardiac catheterization laboratory (endorsed by the cardiological society of india, and sociedad Latino Americana de Cardiologıa intervencionista)
Authors: Iliescu Cezar A. , Grines Cindy L. , Herrmann Joerg , Yang Eric H. , Cilingiroglu Mehmet , Charitakis Konstantinos , Hakeem Abdul , Toutouzas Konstantinos P. , Leesar Massoud A. , Marmagkiolis Konstantinos
Published: January 2016

In the United States alone, there are currently approximately 14.5 million cancer survivors, and this number is expected to increase to 20 million by 2020. Cancer therapies can cause significant injury to the vasculature, resulting in angina, acute coronary syndromes (ACS), stroke, critical limb ischemia, arrhythmias, and heart failure, independently from the direct myocardial or pericardial damage from the malignancy itself. Consequently, the need for invasive evaluation and management in the cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) for such patients has been increasing. In recognition of the need for a document on special considerations for cancer patients in the CCL, the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) commissioned a consensus group to provide recommendations based on the published medical literature and on the expertise of operators with accumulated experience in the cardiac catheterization of cancer patients. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of tricyclic antidepressants and alcohol on psychomotor skills related to driving
Authors: Seppälä Timo , Linnoila Markku , Elonen Erkki , Mattila Mauri J. , Mäki Martti
Published: January 2016

Twenty healthy subjects took amitriptyline, doxepin, and placebo for 2 wk each in a double‐blind crossover trial, and another 20 subjects similarly took nortriptyline, chlorimipramine, and placebo. The antidepressants were given three times daily in doses generally used for neurotic patients. The presence of antidepressants in tissues was checked with the tyramine pressor test. On the seventh and fourteenth days of each period, psychomotor skills (choice reaction, coordination, and attention) were measured after the administration of drugs in combination with an alcoholic or placebo drink. Dose‐response graphs for the tyramine pressor effect were shifted to the right during the antidepressant treatment, indicating a blockade of the membrane pump in peripheral sympathetic terminals. This anti tyramine effect of antidepressants did not correlate with their psychomotor effects. No drug alone importantly impaired psychomotor skills. Amitriptyline in combination with alcohol increased cumulative choice reaction times, and doxepin in combination with alcohol increased both cumulative choice reaction times and inaccuracy of reactions. Coordination was impaired after both of these combinations on the seventh day. It seems as if doxepin and amitriptyline but not nortriptyline or chlorimipramine, in combination with 0.5 gm/kg of alcohol, may be especially dangerous in driving.
Comparative respiratory depression of tilidine and morphine
Authors: Romagnoli Alexander , Keats Arthur S.
Published: January 2016

Respiratory depression induced by tilidine was compared with that of morphine in a crossover study in 6 healthy subjects. Increments of tilidine, 150 mg/70 kg, and morphine, 10 mg/70 kg, were given intravenously and displacement of each subject's CO2 response curve was measured after each dose increment. Both tilidine and morphine caused dose‐related displacement of the CO2 response curves to the right. Approximately 80 to 120 mg of tilidine can be expected to induce the respiratory depresssion of morphine, 10 mg, when given intravenously. Subjective effects after tilidine were qualitatively similar to those of morphine but were of longer duration with nausea and vomiting more frequent. The respiratory depression of both drugs was effectively antagonized by naloxone.
Respiratory effects of delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol
Authors: Bellville J. Weldon , Swanson George D. , Aqleh Kamel A.
Published: January 2016

The respiratory effects of smoked marijuana and oral delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (ΔTHC) have been studied in healthy males by assessing displacement of the respiratory response curve. Both cause slight respiratory depression. While alcohol usually causes respiratory depression, in some subjects it stimulates respiration. High doses of pentobarbital depress respiration but low doses apparently do not.