bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Preoperative Sagittal Alignment on Functional Recovery in Operated Cases of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Acharya Shankar , Khanna Varun , Kalra Kashmiri Lal , Chahal Rupinder Singh
Published: June 2023

Objective We examine the influence of preoperative cervical sagittal curvature (lordotic or nonlordotic) on the functional recovery of surgically managed cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). The impact of sagittal alignment on the functional improvement of operated CSM cases has not been thoroughly investigated.

Materials and Methods We did retrospective analysis of consecutively operated cases of CSM from March 2019 to April 2021. Patients were grouped into two categories: lordotic curvature (with Cobb angle > 10 degrees) and nonlordotic curvature (including neutral [Cobb angle 0–10 degrees] and kyphotic [Cobb angle < 0 degrees]). Demographic data, and preoperative and postoperative functional outcome scores (modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association [mJOA] and Nurick grade) were analyzed for dependency on preoperative curvature, and correlations between outcomes and sagittal parameters were assessed.

Results In the analysis of 124 cases, 63.1% (78 cases) were lordotic (mean Cobb angle of 23.57 ± 9.1 degrees; 11–50 degrees) and 36.9% (46 cases) were nonlordotic (mean Cobb angle of 0.89 ± 6.5 degrees; –11 to 10 degrees), 32 cases (24.6%) had neutral alignment, and 14 cases (12.3%) had kyphotic alignment. At the final follow-up, the mean change in mJOA score, Nurick grade, and functional recovery rate (mJOArr) were not significantly different between the lordotic and nonlordotic group. In the nonlordotic group, cases with anterior surgery had a significantly better mJOArr than those with posterior surgery (p = 0.04), whereas there was similar improvement with either approach in lordotic cases. In the nonlordotic group, patients who gained lordosis (78.1%) had better recovery rates than those who had lost lordosis (21.9%). However, this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion We report noninferiority of the functional outcome in the cases with preoperative nonlordotic alignment when compared with those with lordotic alignment. Further, nonlordotic patients who were approached anteriorly fared better than those approached posteriorly. Although increasing sagittal imbalance in nonlordotic spines portend toward higher preoperative disability, gain in lordosis in such cases may improve results. We recommend further studies with larger nonlordotic subjects to elucidate the impact of sagittal alignment on functional outcome.
Evaluation of Low-Frequency Noise, Infrasound, and Health Symptoms at an Administrative Building and Men's Shelter: A Case Study
Authors: Chiu Sophia K. , Brueck Scott E. , Wiegand Douglas M. , Free Hannah L. , Echt Hannah
Published: June 2023

Responses to complaints about low-frequency noise and infrasound at workplaces have not been extensively documented in the literature. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health evaluated low-frequency noise, infrasound, and health symptoms among employees of an organization providing services to homeless persons. The organization's campus was evacuated after two loud noise and vibration incidents related to methane flare on an adjacent landfill. Employees were interviewed about health symptoms, perceptions of noise, and how the incidents were handled. Available medical records were reviewed. Sound level and noise frequency measurements taken in vacated campus buildings not during these incidents revealed overall levels across frequencies up to 100 hertz were 64 to 73 dB, well below those associated with adverse health effects. However, an unbalanced frequency spectrum could have contributed to the unusual sounds or vibrations reported before the first incident. Some symptoms predating the incidents are consistent with low-frequency noise exposure but are also common and nonspecific. Most interviewed employees (57%) reported being uncomfortable returning to work on the campus. Multiple factors such as noise characteristics, health effects, and employee perceptions need to be considered when assessing health concerns related to low-frequency noise and infrasound.
How online discourse networks fields of practice: The discursive negotiation of autonomy on art organisation about pages
Authors: Soro Tommie
Published: June 2023

This article examines how the online discourse of art organisations forges relationships between the artworld and the fields of politics and economy. Combining elements of Pierre Bourdieu’s field analysis and Norman Fairclough’s critical discourse analysis, the article analyses an elite art magazine, e-flux, and an elite art museum, IMMA, and the activities of discourses, genres, and utterances on their about pages. Its results suggest that the about pages of these organisations forge links between the artworld and the fields of politics and economy by mobilising discourse in these fields and by incorporating discourse practices from these fields. The ideological tension resulting from this interdiscursivity was found to be managed in different ways. The article thereby contributes to furthering our understanding of how discourse networks fields of practice.
Taking the intimidation out of nanocrystal catalyst improvement strategies
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: June 2023

Though the many different methods used to enhance nanocatalyst activity may seem overwhelming at first, they can be categorized by how they alter the surface atoms.
Imaging ultraviolet light-induced oxygen vacancy diffusion on TiO2(110) surface
Authors: Zhao Xiangyun , Wei Dong , Jin Xianchi , Jiang Ling , Ma Zhibo , Yang Xueming
Published: June 2023

We report here scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) observations of bridge-bonded oxygen vacancies (OVs) on the TiO2(110) surface diffusing under the influence of 266 nm ultraviolet (UV) laser irradiation. OV pairs, and even OV trimers, were formed as a result of UV light-induced OV diffusion. There are two stable STM representations of the OV-pair defects, which are inter-changeable during scanning. An extended irradiation time (68 min) can lead to the formation of a TiO2(110) surface with pre-dominant OV-pair point defects. Our results enrich the understanding of OV behavior upon UV irradiation, and future photocatalytic studies on reduced rutile TiO2(110) surfaces involving 266 nm UV light can benefit from the knowledge of the observed diffusion of OVs and the formation of OV oligomers. We also provide a plausible way to prepare an OV-pair abundant TiO2(110) surface, a requisite for further investigations of the otherwise unapproachable defects.
Optimization of a fast deuterium diagnostic method based on visible energetic 3He spectroscopy for high electron density plasmas
Authors: Kimura K. , Matsuura H. , Itoh C. , Kawamoto Y. , Oishi T. , Goto M. , Ogawa K. , Nishitani T. , Isobe M. , Osakabe M.
Published: June 2023

Fast ions play a crucial role in plasma heating, and their behavior in the plasma must be accurately understood. A diagnostics method based on charge exchange emission from the n = 4 − 3 transition (λ0 = 468.6 nm) of energetic 3He produced by the deuteron–deuteron reaction has been proposed as a for fast deuterons with energies in the order of MeV. The proposed method has the following advantages: No beam emission interferes with the spectra, the direction of the measuring line of sight, and the injection angle of the diagnostic beam can be freely determined. In previous studies, due to competing bremsstrahlung, it was expected that the proposed method will not be practical in the case of high electron density operation. This paper makes the proposed method available for measurement even at high electron densities by optimizing the measurement line of sight direction and the diagnostic beam incidence angle. This allows an electron density five times larger than the range of applications shown in previous studies. This result will contribute to measure of DT alpha in ITER.
Programmable resonant and forced mode high-voltage RF generator for dielectric barrier discharge and quadrupole mass filter
Authors: Flaxer Eli
Published: June 2023

Dielectric barrier discharge, originally called silent discharge, is the electrical discharge between two electrodes separated by an insulating dielectric barrier. A high-voltage alternating current is required to generate the discharge process. There are two major principles of operation to implement a high-voltage generator: resonant mode and forced mode. While operating in forced mode, the working frequency is forced by the user using internal electronic devices. On the other hand, in resonant mode, the operating frequency is determined by the resonant circuit, which includes the external capacitance, inductance, and resistance of the load. This work shows a flexible circuit based on a real-time digital signal processor and a full H-bridge that combines the two topologies and can be used as a controller for dielectric barrier discharge and a quadrupole mass filter with varying capacitance.
Sputter sample preparation for ion beam delivery of radium-223 at ATLAS
Authors: McLain J. , Gott M. , Greene J. , Scott R. , Vondrasek R.
Published: June 2023

A radium-223 ion beam was delivered to an experiment from the electron cyclotron resonance ion source, ECR2, at the Argonne Tandem Linac Accelerator System (ATLAS). The radium-223 material was in a nitrate salt form within a vial, prior to being converted to a usable sputter sample. The sputter sample was produced using a new sample preparation method, where the radium nitrate was dissolved into a solution and pipetted onto pressed aluminum powder. This sample was then allowed to dry, distributing the radium-223 material throughout the sputter sample. Ion source operation using the radium sputter sample is described with the operating parameters listed. The intensity and energy requirements for this ion beam were 1 × 106 particles/s and 1.07 GeV, respectively. Because the intensity is relatively low compared to most experiments at ATLAS, previously developed accelerator mass spectrometry methods were used Scott et al. [Rev. Sci. Instrum. 87, 02A732 (2016)] to avoid the need for tuning of the low-intensity beam of interest. Handling of the radium material, as well as loading and unloading of the sputter sample from ECR2, required collaboration with Health Physics. Procedures were used and dry runs were carried out before, during, and after the experiment to ensure the safety of the workers. The processes used and lessons learned are described within.
A 20 A bipolar current source with 140 μA noise over 100 kHz bandwidth
Authors: Zhao M. , Restelli A. , Tao J. , Liang Q. , Spielman I. B.
Published: June 2023

The precise control of direct current (dc) magnetic fields is crucial in a wide range of experimental platforms, from ultracold quantum gases and nuclear magnetic resonance to precision measurements. In each of these cases, the Zeeman effect causes quantum states to shift in energy as a function of the magnetic field. The development of low-noise current sources is essential because electromagnets are the preferred tool to dynamically control the magnetic field. Here, we describe an ultra-low noise bipolar current source using pairs of complementary n- and p-channel metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors controlled by zero-drift operational amplifiers. Our source has a 90 kHz inherent bandwidth and provides current from −20 to 20 A with noise (0.1 Hz to 100 kHz) of 140 µA at ±20 A.
Trap passivation of 4H-SiC/SiO2 interfaces by nitrogen annealing
Authors: Das Suman , Gu Hengfei , Wang Lu , Ahyi Ayayi , Feldman Leonard C. , Garfunkel Eric , Kuroda Marcelo A. , Dhar Sarit
Published: June 2023

We report an N2 based annealing treatment to passivate interface traps (Dit) in n- and p-type 4H-SiC. The process has the potential to replace the commonly used hazardous and expensive gas nitric oxide (NO). N2 postoxidation annealing reduces Dit in both the upper and lower halves of the 4H-SiC bandgap, with a greater impact at the valence band edge. N2 annealing at 1500 °C is observed to be more effective in passivating traps and positive fixed charges than NO annealing for p-type devices, whereas for n-type devices, the opposite is true. The breakdown voltages for these devices are found to be lower than that of NO annealed devices. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy has been performed to estimate the nitrogen areal density at the interface. Dit is measured as a function of nitrogen areal densities in the near interfacial regions for the different processes. Theoretical analysis through density functional theory is consistent with the measured Dit profiles by showing the generation of additional states near the valence band edge due to increased nitrogen concentration. In addition to reporting the effect of N2 annealing on both n- and p-type 4H-SiC, this work correlates the nitrogen areal densities at the interface to the Dit and explains the difference in Dit characteristics with nitrogen areal density between n- and p-type interfaces.
A new J.E probe for measurement of spatial profiles of power absorption in RF produced plasma
Authors: Rawat Arti , Ganguli A. , Narayanan Ramesh , Tarey R. D.
Published: June 2023

This paper reports an indigenously developed probe for the measurement of spatial profiles of the absorbed/generated RF power density Pabs (W/m3) in RF discharges. The technique utilizes a calibrated current (J) probe based on the Rogowski coil principle and an electric field (E) probe based on capacitive coupling, both integrated into a single probe called the J.E probe. Various aspects of the probe, such as its design, fabrication, calibration, and limitations, were resolved before it was used for obtaining axial profiles of RF power absorption/generation. Also presented are the first experimental results for the absorbed power density profiles at the fundamental (13.56 MHz) and harmonic (27.12 MHz) along the length of a capacitively coupled discharge. The axial scans between the powered and grounded electrode were taken at different argon gas pressures (10–800 mTorr) at a fixed RF power of 10 W. Detailed analysis of the results shows that even for systems with large electrode gaps, i.e., plasmas with long bulk plasma regions, practically all the fundamental power is absorbed in a narrow edge region near the powered electrode, irrespective of the pressure. Absorption is high near the RF electrode since the RF fields peak in this region. Another important conclusion is that stochastic absorption of the fundamental and harmonic generation proceeds fairly efficiently in the vicinity of the powered electrode even at high pressures. It may be mentioned that the probe technique introduced here is the first of its kind, and although there is considerable scope for miniaturization, it has, nonetheless, provided some key insights into the nature of RF power absorption in capacitive discharges.
Indium-bond-and-stop-etch (IBASE) technique for dual-side processing of thin high-mobility GaAs/AlGaAs epitaxial layers
Authors: Yoo C. , West K. W. , Pfeiffer L. N. , Curwen C. A. , Kawamura J. H. , Karasik B. S. , Sherwin M. S.
Published: June 2023

We present a reliable flip-chip technique for dual-side processing of thin (<1 μm) high-mobility GaAs/AlGaAs epitaxial layers. The technique allows the fabrication of small (micron-scale with standard UV photolithography) patterned back gates and dual-gate structures on the thin GaAs/AlGaAs films with good alignment accuracy using only frontside alignment. The technique preserves the high-mobility (>106 cm2/V-s at 2 K) and most (>95%) of the charge density of the two-dimensional electron gas systems and allows linear control of the charge density with small (<1 V) electrostatic gate bias. Our technique is motivated by a THz quantum well detector based on intersubband transitions in a single, wide GaAs/AlGaAs quantum well, in which a symmetric, well-aligned dual-gate structure (with a typical gate dimension of ∼5 ×5 μm) is required for accurate and precise tuning of the THz detection frequency. Using our Indium-Bond-And-Stop-Etch technique, we realize such dual-gate structure on 660-nm thick GaAs/AlGaAs epitaxial layers that contain a modulation-doped, 40-nm wide, single square quantum well. By independently controlling the charge density and the DC electric field set between the gates, we demonstrate robust tuning of the intersubband absorption behavior of the 40-nm quantum well near 3.44 THz at 30 K.
Speed-up and suppression effect of side chain in quantum searching on a graph
Authors: Zhu Jin-Hui , Lu Li-Hua
Published: June 2023

Searching efficiency, which biologists and roboticists are ever concerned about, has become important in physics and information science nowadays. In classical probability-based searching problems, as stigmergy, the increase in graph complexity will decrease the searching efficiency. Here we study the searching efficiency based on the first-passage probability and find a counterintuitive phenomenon in quantum walk on a graph with floating vertices. Connecting one vertex in the floating layer to that in the base layer will speed up the searching rapidity, but such a speed-up effect will be suppressed at once if one more vertex is connected to the already connected vertex in the floating layer. This is a counterintuitive phenomenon in comparison to its classical counterpart, where additional vertices at the side chain will retard the searching rapidity. We also propose an ancillary model that bridges the measurement of the probability and the first-passage probability, which is expected to provide new ideas for quantum simulation by means of qubit chips.
Temperature-dependent structural phase transition of Janus MoSH monolayer
Authors: Huang Zhijing , Zhang Wenya , Zeng Shuming , Tu Yusong , Gu Zonglin
Published: June 2023

Structural phase transition materials have attracted extensive attention in various fields due to their tunable physical properties. Transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanomaterial is a critical representation. However, the phase transition of Janus MoSH, a sub-member of TMD nanomaterial, remains poorly understood. In this study, we employed a theoretical approach to investigate the phase transition of MoSH monolayer. Our results reveal temperature-dependent structural phase transitions of MoSH from 2H to 1T′. As the temperature reaches a critical value, a spontaneous structural phase transition occurs from 2H to 1T′ phase. Remarkably, our study identifies the 1T′ phase of MoSH as the most stable phase (including energetic, mechanical, dynamic, and thermodynamic stability) at most temperature ranges, and we provide insight into the reaction pathway of MoSH from 2H to 1T′ phase. Moreover, the structural phase transition of MoSH with hydrogen vacancies is also temperature-dependent, with the critical temperature decreasing with the incremental number of vacancies. Overall, our findings not only reveal the temperature-dependent structural phase transition of MoSH but also confirm the stable structure of MoSH in 1T′ phase at room temperature, which is significant for potential applications of 2D MoSH nanomaterial.
Electric double layer contribution to sum frequency generation signal from Au electrode
Authors: Song Qian-Tong , Huang-Fu Zhi-Chao , Liu XiaoLin , Wang Yue , He YuHan , Yu ZhiYuan , Wang ChangYi , Sun Shi-Gang , Wang ZhaoHui
Published: June 2023

Understanding the electric double layer (EDL) of the metal electrode–electrolyte interface is essential to electrochemistry and relevant disciplines. In this study, potential-dependent electrode Sum Frequency Generation (SFG) intensities of polycrystalline gold electrodes in HClO4 and H2SO4 electrolytes were thoroughly analyzed. The potential of zero charges (PZC) of the electrodes was −0.06 and 0.38 V in HClO4 and H2SO4, respectively, determined from differential capacity curves. Without specific adsorption, the total SFG intensity was dominated by the contribution from the Au surface and increased similar to that of the visible (VIS) wavelength scanning, which pushed the SFG process closer to the double resonant condition in HClO4. However, the EDL contributed about 30% SFG signal with specific adsorption in H2SO4. Below PZC, the total SFG intensity was dominated by the Au surface contribution and increased with potential at a similar slope in these two electrolytes. Around PZC, as the EDL structure became less ordered and the electric field changed direction, there would be no EDL SFG contribution. Above PZC, the total SFG intensity increased much more rapidly with potential in H2SO4 than in HClO4, which suggested that the EDL SFG contribution kept increasing with more specific adsorbed surface ions from H2SO4.
Memory window enhancement in n-type ferroelectric field-effect transistors by engineering ozone exposure in atomic layer deposition of HfZrOx films
Authors: Jeon Jihoon , Kuk Song-Hyeon , Cho Ah-Jin , Baek Seung-Hyub , Kim Sang-Hyeon , Kim Seong Keun
Published: June 2023

We demonstrate n-type ferroelectric field-effect transistors (FeFETs) employing atomic-layer-deposited HfZrOx (HZO) films with a large memory window (MW) immediately after the write operation. Charge trapping at the HZO/Si interface in FeFETs is the primary source of memory window reduction. To control the properties of the interfacial layer, we varied the O3 injection time during atomic layer deposition. The HZO (long O3 of 7 s)-based FeFET demonstrated a large MW (2.1 V) in the DC transfer curves compared with the HZO (short O3 of 0.3 s)-based FeFET (0.9 V), although the bulk properties of the HZO films barely changed with the O3 injection time. In pulsed I–V measurements with an extremely short delay time of 100 ns between pulses, the HZO (long O3 of 7 s)-based FeFET showed a large MW of 1.0 V. Such improvements in the performance of HZO-based FeFETs indicate that the trap density in the interfacial layer is reduced by the use of a long O3 injection time. This is supported by the variation in the silicate/SiO2 ratio within the interfacial layer of the HZO films deposited at various O3 injection times.
Competing mechanisms of local photoluminescence quenching and enhancement in the quantum tunneling regime at 2D TMDC/hBN/plasmonic interfaces
Authors: Pan Yang , He Lu , Milekhin Ilya , Milekhin Alexander G. , Zahn Dietrich R. T.
Published: June 2023

Owing to the extraordinary physical and chemical properties, and the potential to couple with nanoplasmonic structures, two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides are promising materials for next-generation (opto-)electronic devices. Targeting the application stage, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of photoluminescence (PL) quenching and enhancement at the nanoscale. In this work, using monolayer MoSe2/hBN heterostructure on Au nanotriangles (NTs) as an example, we report on the local PL quenching and enhancement in the quantum tunneling regime at MoSe2/hBN/plasmonic nanostructure interfaces. By exploiting tip-enhanced photoluminescence spectroscopy, we were able to resolve and image the nanostructures locally. Moreover, by studying the different near-field emission behavior of MoSe2/SiO2, MoSe2/hBN, MoSe2/NT, and MoSe2/hBN/NT, we investigate the localized surface plasmon resonance, electron tunneling, and highly localized strain as the three competing mechanisms of local PL quenching and enhancement in the quantum tunneling regime at the nanoscale.
Broadband transparency of Babinet complementary metamaterials
Authors: Ospanova A. , Cojocari M. , Lamberti P. , Plyushch A. , Matekovits L. , Svirko Yu. , Kuzhir P. , Basharin A.
Published: June 2023

According to the Babinet principle, the diffraction pattern from an opaque body is identical to that from a hole of the same shape and size. Intuitively, placing two complementary structures such as an opaque metal body and its transparent counterpart one by one may result in destructive or constructive interference leading to unexpected electromagnetic response. We propose a Babinet principle-based metamaterial made of two complementary metal/hole checkerboards. The unit cell of each layer is either a metal square with 1/4 of 8 neighboring squares, four of which are made of metal, whereas the other four are square holes, or vice versa. Being placed complementary at optimal distance equal to three-unit cell length, the compound bi-layered Babinet structure demonstrates absolute transparency in a very broad frequency range. The observed absolute transparency of the bi-layered Babinet metasurface is the result of the modified multipole interaction of layers with shifted centers of radiation. We demonstrate both theoretically and experimentally absolute transmission of 0 dB for the Babinet metamaterial made of 3 cm sized Cu squares and complementary holes in the broad frequency range from 4.5 to 6.62 GHz in simulations and from 4.6 to 6.4 GHz in the experiment when the distance between two layers is 1.2 cm. Moving layers toward each other leads to blurring of the resonances. The proven concept of simple, reproducible, and scalable design of the Babinet metamaterial paves the way for the fabrication of broadband transparent devices at any frequency, including THz and optical ranges. The main advantage of broadband Babine metamaterials is applications in optical switching, sensing, filtering, and slow light devices.
Effect of Nd doping on the crystallographic, magnetic, and magnetocaloric properties of NdxGd3−xCoNi
Authors: Oleaga A. , Erkoreka A. , Herrero A. , Provino A. , Peddis D. , Manfrinetti P.
Published: June 2023

The crystal structure, magnetic and magnetocaloric properties, and the critical behavior of representative compounds in the pseudo-ternary NdxGd3−xCoNi series have been investigated (x = 0.15, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5). All these phases are isotypic with the parent compound Gd3CoNi, crystallizing with the monoclinic Dy3Ni2-type (mS20, C2/m, No. 12). All samples present a paramagnetic to ferromagnetic (PM-FM) second order phase transition with decreasing Curie temperature as the Nd concentration is increased (TC = 171, 150, 120, and 96 K, respectively) and, at lower temperatures, there is a spin reorientation, which leads to a complex magnetic ground state. The critical exponents (β, γ, and δ) have been retrieved for the PM-FM transitions. On the one hand, in x = 0.15, 0.5, and 1.5 the value of γ ≈ 1 indicates that the magnetic interactions are long-range order while the values of β point to a certain deviation from the 3D-Heisenberg universality class; on the other hand, NdGd2CoNi has a particular critical behavior, as β is close to the mean field model while γ is close to the uniaxial 3D-Ising one. Concerning the magnetocaloric properties, the magnetic entropy change and refrigerant capacity present competitive values, interesting for cryogenic applications. Finally, the thermal diffusivity values of these compounds are extremely good for practical magnetocaloric refrigeration systems, as they are in the range 1.5–3 mm2/s.
Enhanced magnetometry with an electrically detected spin defect ensemble in silicon carbide
Authors: Lew C. T.-K. , Sewani V. K. , Iwamoto N. , Ohshima T. , McCallum J. C. , Johnson B. C.
Published: June 2023

Spin defects in solid-state sensors are a highly promising platform for quantum sensing, a field with far-reaching applications in a variety of industries. Here, we investigate the magnetic sensitivity of a spin defect ensemble detected electrically in a silicon carbide pn-junction diode utilizing the hyperfine-induced spin-mixing effect observed in the vicinity of zero magnetic field. To enhance the baseline sensitivity, we employ above bandgap optical excitation to generate additional electron-hole pairs as well as a balanced detection scheme to reject common-mode noise, with an ultimate sensitivity of 30 nT/Hz achieved. Both techniques are demonstrated to greatly enhance the magnetic sensitivity of the device by a total factor of ∼24, paving the way toward sub-nanotesla magnetic field sensitivities with electrical detection.
Highly sensitive spin-torque diodes based on in-plane magnetized magnetic tunnel junctions
Authors: Zhang Like , Luo Yanxiang , Tu Huayao , Zeng Kexin , Zeng Huiming , Yu Yao , Zhao Dong , Wang Chao , Fang Bin , Zeng Zhongming
Published: June 2023

We investigate the highly sensitive spin torque diode (STD) effect in a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) with an in-plane polarizer and an in-plane free layer. Under injection locking mechanisms, a high rectification voltage of 12 mV is obtained with an input radio frequency power of 1 μW under direct current bias current and a weak magnetic field, corresponding to a high sensitivity of 12 000 mV/mW. In addition, we use the nonlinear rectification characteristics of STD to mimic a neuron with a ReLU-like activation function to perform the recognition of handwritten digits in the Mixed National Institute of Standards and Technology database, where a produced accuracy of up to 93.53% is obtained. These findings suggest that the MTJ with in-plane magnetized electrodes holds promising potential in developing high sensitivity STDs for Internet of Things applications and neuromorphic computing.
High transmittance Huygens' metasurface with 360° phase coverage and its metalens application
Authors: Wang Yuxiang , Tian Feng , Guo Linyan , Yang Helin , Huang Xiaojun
Published: June 2023

Huygens' metasurfaces, as a class of artificial electromagnetic surfaces, have garnered significant interest due to their ability to effectively manipulate electromagnetic wave fronts. In this article, a Huygens' element with a simple design is discussed. The structure comprises a dielectric substrate sandwiched between a reverse-opening resonant ring and a pair of single-opening resonant rings. The proposed structure enables independent modulation of the electrical and magnetic response, particularly delivering transmittance amplitude of at least 0.8 and 0°–360° phase control simultaneously in a single double layer without vias. Based on this structure, we create a Huygens' metasurface focusing lens that gathers plane waves at the focal point. Then, a patch antenna is mounted onto this metalens to transform the radiated spherical waves into plane waves, increasing the antenna gain by up to 11 dBi. The experimental and simulated results demonstrate excellent agreement, demonstrating the usefulness of the proposed metalens and the importance of the designed Huygens-atom for metalens applications.
Native flora receive more visits than exotics from bees, especially native bees, in an urbanised biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Prendergast Kit S.
Published: June 2023

Context Identifying floral resources preferred by bee assemblages is important for their conservation. Aims Here, I assess the association of flowering plant community composition, with that of honey bees and native bee abundance and diversity. I investigate flower preferences in terms of plant origin (native or exotic), and evaluate niche breadth, of introduced honey bees and native bee taxa. I also consider if habitat influences these patterns. Methods This was evaluated through recording flower visitation by honey bees and native bees in the urbanised region of the south-west Western Australian Floristic Region in seven bushland remnants and seven residential gardens over 2 years. Key results Both native bees and honey bees visited more native than exotic flora, however native bees visited a higher proportion of native flora than honey bees. The 10-most visited plants by native bees were exclusively native, whereas for honey bees, although their 10-most visited plants were predominantly native plant species, this selection also included exotic plant species. Niche breadth was broader in bushland remnants, indicating a greater range of preferred flora in bushland remnants. Honey bees however visited more plant families in residential gardens. With increased honey bee abundance, this was associated with native bees expanding their niche breadth, which may be a response to reduce competition. Flower preference patterns and niche breadth often differed between habitats, indicating that foraging patterns may be mediated by habitat context. Conclusion Native flora are preferred by bees, and native bees have relatively restricted flower preferences, especially compared with honey bees. Implications High proportions of preferred native flora are needed to support diverse native bee assemblages in urban areas.
ZBTB20 is essential for cochlear maturation and hearing in mice
Authors: Xie Zhifang , Ma Xian-Hua , Bai Qiu-Fang , Tang Jie , Sun Jian-He , Jiang Fei , Guo Wei , Wang Chen-Ma , Yang Rui , Wen Yin-Chuan , Wang Fang-Yuan , Chen Yu-Xia , Zhang Hai , He David Z. , Kelley Matthew W. , Yang Shiming , Zhang Weiping J.
Published: June 2023

The mammalian cochlear epithelium undergoes substantial remodeling and maturation before the onset of hearing. However, very little is known about the transcriptional network governing cochlear late-stage maturation and particularly the differentiation of its lateral nonsensory region. Here, we establish ZBTB20 as an essential transcription factor required for cochlear terminal differentiation and maturation and hearing. ZBTB20 is abundantly expressed in the developing and mature cochlear nonsensory epithelial cells, with transient expression in immature hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons. Otocyst-specific deletion of
Zbtb20
causes profound deafness with reduced endolymph potential in mice. The subtypes of cochlear epithelial cells are normally generated, but their postnatal development is arrested in the absence of ZBTB20, as manifested by an immature appearance of the organ of Corti, malformation of tectorial membrane (TM), a flattened spiral prominence (SP), and a lack of identifiable Boettcher cells. Furthermore, these defects are related with a failure in the terminal differentiation of the nonsensory epithelium covering the outer border Claudius cells, outer sulcus root cells, and SP epithelial cells. Transcriptome analysis shows that ZBTB20 regulates genes encoding for TM proteins in the greater epithelial ridge, and those preferentially expressed in root cells and SP epithelium. Our results point to ZBTB20 as an essential regulator for postnatal cochlear maturation and particularly for the terminal differentiation of cochlear lateral nonsensory domain.
Transcultural pathways to the will to fight
Authors: Gómez Ángel , Vázquez Alexandra , Atran Scott
Published: June 2023

The ‘Will to Fight Act’ was amended to the nation's annual defense bill (FY2023 NDAA) urging attention to assessing will to fight, after debate acknowledging that current evaluation efforts within the political and military establishment remain contentious, fragmented, and meager. This likely will persist, along with attendant policy failures and grievous costs, without awareness of research that the social and psychological sciences reveal on the will to fight [S. Atran,
Science
373
, 1063 (2021)]. We illustrate such research using converging data from a multimethod and multicultural approach, including field and online studies from the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe. These studies reveal specific psychosocial pathways, within a general causal framework, that predict willingness to make costly sacrifices, including to cooperate, fight, and die in war and sustained conflict. From the continuing strife in Iraq to embattled Ukraine, 31 studies were conducted in 9 countries with nearly 12,000 participants. These include people in longstanding conflicts, refugees, imprisoned jihadists and gangs, US military, studies in Ukraine before and during the current war, and rolling studies with a European ally of Ukraine. Results provide evidence for a mediation model of transcultural pathways to the will to fight. Building on our previous behavioral and brain research, on the battlefield in Iraq, with violent extremists, and with US military, the linear mediation yielding the will to fight involves identity fusion, perceived spiritual formidability, and trust. The model, a variation on “The Devoted Actor Framework,” applies to primary reference groups, core cultural values, and leaders.
Generic dynamic molecular devices by quantitative non-steady-state proton/water-coupled electron transport kinetics
Authors: Wang Ziyan , Li Zheyang , Li Chengtai , Ji Xuan , Song Xianneng , Yu Xi , Wang Lejia , Hu Wenping
Published: June 2023

Dynamic molecular devices operating with time- and history-dependent performance raised new challenges for the fundamental study of microscopic non-steady-state charge transport as well as functionalities that are not achievable by steady-state devices. In this study, we reported a generic dynamic mode of molecular devices by addressing the transient redox state of ubiquitous quinone molecules in the junction by proton/water transfer. The diffusion limited slow proton/water transfer–modulated fast electron transport, leading to a non-steady-state transport process, as manifested by the negative differential resistance, dynamic hysteresis, and memory-like behavior. A quantitative paradigm for the study of the non-steady-state charge transport kinetics was further developed by combining the theoretical model and transient state characterization, and the principle of the dynamic device can be revealed by the numerical simulator. On applying pulse stimulation, the dynamic device emulated the neuron synaptic response with frequency-dependent depression and facilitation, implying a great potential for future nonlinear and brain-inspired devices.
Capturing meaningful generalizations at varying degrees of resolution
Authors: Gonzálvez-García Francisco
Published: June 2023

This article provides a principled constructionist account (Goldberg &
Herbst, 2021) of the main characteristics of expressions like the following: (1) Juan es muy de (ir de)
bares (‘Juan is very into (going to) bars’), and (2) Tu ayuda es muy de agradecer (‘Your help is
very much appreciated’). Instances of this kind are best handled in terms of coercion between the intensifier and
non-stative/non-gradable elements in the nominal slot of the de-PPs. Specifically, these combinations qualify as
individual-level predicates with a characterizing, evaluative interpretation. The specific constructional interpretations in
(1)–(2) arise from contextual adjustments (Carston, 2015), encoding a person’s habits and a potential modal deontic habituality,
respectively. The semantic and pragmatic properties of the sub-constructions in (1)–(2), among others, can be adequately subsumed under a family of ser muy de-PP
constructions, with the following general meaning: ‘X (SOMEONE/SOMETHING) (SUBJECT) IS SUBJECTIVELY CONSTRUED AS HAVING Y (A
HIGHLIGHTED CLASSIFICATORY PROPERTY OF AN INDIVIDUAL/CLASS) (ATTRIBUTE)’.
Children’s experiences of positive affect with pet dogs: A multi-method study
Authors: Kerns Kathryn A. , Obeldobel Carli A. , House Heather , Kochendorfer Logan B. , White Allysia , Gastelle Marissa
Published: June 2023

Experiences of positive affect (PA) are common when interacting with animals and may help to build resilience. This study explored how children’s relationships with pet dogs, parents, and friends are related to their experiences of PA with their pet dog. In addition, we examined whether greater PA with pet dogs was related to children’s thriving. The sample (
n
= 115, 57 girls, 58 boys) included children 9–14 years of age who reported the quality of relationships with their pet dog (Positive Relationship Qualities, Friction, Pets as Substitutes), attachment security to parents, and positive and negative friendship quality. PA was assessed with child self-report before and after interacting with their dog, observed child and dog PA during the interaction, and reports of daily PA when interacting with the dog from a 7-day daily log. Children completed questionnaires to assess attachment security relationship with parents and friendship relationship quality. Children’s relationships with parents and friends were related to PA in the interaction session, whereas relationships with pet dogs, parents, and friends were all related to the daily experiences of PA. Children’s experiences of PA in daily interactions with pet dogs, parent-child attachment, and positive friendship quality were all related to children’s thriving. The findings suggest that experiences of PA may be one mechanism that accounts for the effects of animals on children’s development.
The One Health Approach to Addressing Zoonotic Malaria in Rural Northern Borneo: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Naserrudin Nurul Athirah , Monroe April , Yaong Pau Lin Pauline , Baumann Sara , Culleton Richard , Sato Shigeharu , Hod Rozita , Jeffree Mohammad Saffree , Ahmed Kamruddin , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat
Published: June 2023

Plasmodium knowlesi
malaria is a vector-borne disease transmitted by the
Anopheles
mosquito. The incidence of this zoonotic malaria in South-east Asian rural communities continues to increase annually, despite efforts and guidelines for malaria control. To address this gap, a One Health project, supported by various stakeholders, was conducted from January to August 2022 to integrate community perspectives and address challenges to malaria prevention. The project implemented a photovoice initiative in collaboration with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, international malaria experts, the Sabah State Health Department, and primary healthcare workers in four rural villages in Sabah, Malaysia. The study recruited 26 adult participants of both genders to explore their perceptions of malaria, prevention challenges, and the significance of innovative community engagement methods. Cultural and social norms, environmental factors, social disparity, and socio-economic status influenced the identified challenges. The project findings were shared with stakeholders and policy makers through photo exhibitions, newspaper articles, academic manuscripts, reports, and conferences and helped initiate further dialogues with policy makers and stakeholders. The transdisciplinary photovoice approach showcased the impact of collaborative efforts with rural communities in shedding light on critical issues related to malaria prevention. Future recommendations propose co-designing interventions for the target population and bridging the gap through a One Health initiative that integrates community perspectives and is supported by multiple stakeholders in addressing the challenges of malaria prevention.

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The Bioluminescent Insects of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
Authors: Lemelin Raynald Harvey , Caveny John , Patton III H.
Published: June 2023

Written by managers from Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, a not-for-profit natural park located in Linville, North Carolina, and a researcher specializing in entomotourism, a specialized form of wildlife tourism, this case study outlines how a wildlife viewing strategy for bioluminescent insects (e.g. fireflies, glow-worms) was developed and implemented in the summer of 2022. Capped at an attendance of 300 participants per night and requiring a pre-online registration, the three separate outings held in the summer of 2022 provided participants with opportunities to view bioluminescent insects. The designated viewing area consisted of a 321 m or 0.2 mi long paved road bordered by woods and one open area. In order to minimize the disruption to the fireflies’ mating patterns, participants were encouraged to use red-light flashlights, and staff were outfitted with the fluorescent vest. Participant discussions typically ended when the fireflies became active around dusk. Consisting of field observations and informal discussions with staff and some participants, and post-viewing reflections by the co-authors, the results provide an overview of bioluminescent insect viewing opportunities in the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation nature park while also examining the role of interpretive strategies. The conclusion highlights the key findings while providing future research and management strategies.

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© The Authors 2023
Embodying Indigeneity in the Mountains: Creating Inclusive Adventure Spaces for Welsh Women, UK
Authors: Hall Jenny , Boocock Emma
Published: June 2023

This case study examines an intersecting legacy of exclusion in the Welsh mountains, UK, and how this is challenged by Welsh women’s participation in outdoor adventure courses. The research critically appraised how Indigenous Welsh women
1
navigate gender, class, and racial landscapes in mountain leisure to create inclusive spaces. Facilitated by a National Charitable Organization (NCO) that engages Indigenous Welsh communities in mountain adventure, we explored women’s embodied experiences through mobile video ethnography. Methodologically embodiment facilitated a way of capturing bodily sensations and experiences, which provided a language to express those ideas through reflexive analysis (
Ellingson, 2017
). The findings highlight how women embody cultural identity in the mountains, which contributes to understanding issues of exclusion/inclusion in adventure spaces.

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© The Authors 2023
Dantrolene inhibition of ryanodine channels (RyR2) in artificial lipid bilayers depends on FKBP12.6
Authors: Walweel Kafa , Beard Nicole , van Helden Dirk F. , Laver Derek R.
Published: June 2023

Dantrolene is a neutral hydantoin that is clinically used as a skeletal muscle relaxant to prevent overactivation of the skeletal muscle calcium release channel (RyR1) in response to volatile anesthetics. Dantrolene has aroused considerable recent interest as a lead compound for stabilizing calcium release due to overactive cardiac calcium release channels (RyR2) in heart failure. Previously, we found that dantrolene produces up to a 45% inhibition RyR2 with an IC50 of 160 nM, and that this inhibition requires the physiological association between RyR2 and CaM. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that dantrolene inhibition of RyR2 in the presence of CaM is modulated by RyR2 phosphorylation at S2808 and S2814. Phosphorylation was altered by incubations with either exogenous phosphatase (PP1) or kinases; PKA to phosphorylate S2808 or endogenous CaMKII to phosphorylate S2814. We found that PKA caused selective dissociation of FKBP12.6 from the RyR2 complex and a loss of dantrolene inhibition. Rapamycin-induced FKBP12.6 dissociation from RyR2 also resulted in the loss of dantrolene inhibition. Subsequent incubations of RyR2 with exogenous FKBP12.6 reinstated dantrolene inhibition. These findings indicate that the inhibitory action of dantrolene on RyR2 depends on RyR2 association with FKBP12.6 in addition to CaM as previously found.
Fingerprint of parity anomaly for localized magnetic states in quantum anomalous Hall systems
Authors: Zhang Shi-Jie , Zhang Yun , Ding Kai-He
Published: June 2023

We investigate the local magnetic states of impurities in quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) systems and observe that with an increasing band gap, the magnetic region of impurities expands in the QAH phase, while it contracts in the ordinary insulator (OI) phase. During the transition between the QAH and the OI phase, the magnetization area undergoes a significant transformation from a broad region to a narrow strip, which serves as a distinctive characteristic of the parity anomaly in the localized magnetic states. Furthermore, the presence of the parity anomaly leads to notable alterations in the dependence of the magnetic moment and magnetic susceptibility on the Fermi energy. Additionally, we analyze the spectral function of the magnetic impurity as a function of Fermi energy for both the QAH and OI phases.