bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The upgraded Polaris powder diffractometer at the ISIS neutron source
Authors: Smith R. I. , Hull S. , Tucker M. G. , Playford H. Y. , McPhail D. J. , Waller S. P. , Norberg S. T.
Published: November 2019

This paper describes the design and operation of the Polaris time-of-flight powder neutron diffractometer at the ISIS pulsed spallation neutron source, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, UK. Following a major upgrade to the diffractometer in 2010–2011, its detector provision now comprises five large ZnS scintillator-based banks, covering an angular range of 6° ≤ 2θ ≤ 168°, with only minimal gaps between each bank. These detectors have a substantially increased solid angle coverage (Ω ∼ 5.67 sr) compared to the previous instrument (Ω ∼ 0.82 sr), resulting in increases in count rate of between 2× and 10×, depending on 2θ angle. The benefits arising from the high count rates achieved are illustrated using selected examples of experiments studying small sample volumes and performing rapid, time-resolved investigations. In addition, the enhanced capabilities of the diffractometer in the areas of in situ studies (which are facilitated by the installation of a novel design of radial collimator around the sample position and by a complementary programme of advanced sample environment developments) and in total scattering studies (to probe the nature of short-range atomic correlations within disordered crystalline solids) are demonstrated.
A setup for Seebeck coefficient measurement through controlled heat pulses
Authors: Ahad Abdul , Shukla D. K.
Published: November 2019

A setup is designed for measuring the Seebeck coefficient (S) of materials in the form of thin films, bars, and wires. The main feature of this setup is its control in heating and cooling cycles. In this setup, a heat pulse is used to generate the temperature gradient. To demonstrate the capabilities of this setup, S versus T of standard wire samples such as Au–Fe (0.07%), chromel, Pt, and thin films of Pt and F doped SnO2 are presented. The standard uncertainty of the repeatability in the S measurement is found to be ∼±0.056 μV/K while the temperature stability is ∼±10 mK (at 320 K), estimated for a chromel wire sample. We have tested the setup in the temperature range 100 K–320 K, while it does not have any intrinsic limitations in going down to liquid He temperatures. For temperatures above 320 K, the limitation is due to gluing materials such as varnish.
Terahertz emission from Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x intrinsic Josephson junction stacks
Authors: Kleiner Reinhold , Wang Huabing
Published: November 2019

Electromagnetic radiation at frequencies in the terahertz (THz) range is highly interesting for potential applications in biology or medical diagnostics, high-bandwidth communication, security and defence, nondestructive evaluation, and other fields. However, particularly, the frequency range between 0.5 and 1.5 THz has turned out to be difficult to fill with powerful coherent solid-state sources. Suitably patterned structures made of the high critical temperature superconductor Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ can operate in this frequency range, and the best devices presently reach an output power around 100μW. In this tutorial, we will give an introduction into the basic physics of this type of oscillator and into the challenges that appear. We will explain how the generators are fabricated, which measurement techniques are used for characterization, and which models are used to describe their dynamics. We will also give some examples demonstrating potential applications in the fields of THz imaging and THz spectroscopy.
Characterizing dielectric properties of ultra-thin films using superconducting coplanar microwave resonators
Authors: Ebensperger Nikolaj G. , Ferdinand Benedikt , Koelle Dieter , Kleiner Reinhold , Dressel Martin , Scheffler Marc
Published: November 2019

We present an experimental approach for cryogenic dielectric measurements on ultrathin insulating films. Based on a coplanar microwave waveguide design, we implement superconducting quarter-wave resonators with inductive coupling, which allows us to determine the real part ε1 of the dielectric function at gigahertz frequencies and sample thicknesses down to a few nanometers. We perform simulations to optimize resonator coupling and sensitivity, and we demonstrate the possibility to quantify ε1 with a conformal mapping technique in a wide sample-thickness and ε1-regime. Experimentally, we determine ε1 for various thin-film samples (photoresist, MgF2, and SiO2) in the thickness regime of nanometer up to micrometer. We find good correspondence with nominative values, and we identify the precision of the film thickness as our predominant error source. Additionally, we present a temperature-dependent measurement for a SrTiO3 bulk sample, using an in situ reference method to compensate for the temperature dependence of the superconducting resonator properties.
A fully-adjustable picosecond resolution arbitrary timing generator based on multi-stage time interpolation
Authors: Zhang Wen-Zhe , Qin Xi , Wang Lin , Tong Yu , Rui Ying , Rong Xing , Du Jiang-Feng
Published: November 2019

We report a fully adjustable arbitrary timing generator (ATG) that is based on a multistage time interpolation method. A 3 ps timing adjustment resolution is achieved using a three-stage time interpolation module. The output signal amplitude of the ATG is adjustable, as a current controlled output module is designed to adjust the output voltage of driver circuits. A field programmable gate array is used to realize the main logic of the ATG. A 3.2 ps short term jitter, a pulse width dynamic range from 6.25 ns to 5 s, and an output voltage range between −1 and +5 V are obtained. The arbitrary timing generator can be used in the applications that require high precision timing control and adjustable output capacity.
Environmental feedback promotes the evolution of cooperation in the structured populations
Authors: Wu Yu’e , Zhang Zhipeng , Yan Ming , Zhang Shuhua
Published: November 2019

Environment plays a vital role in individual decision-making. In the game process, employing the strategy of the opponent who behaves better is nontrivial for the evolution and maintenance of cooperation, in that such a behavior may assist the player in achieving higher personal interests and more competitive superiorities. Enlightened by this thought, a coevolutionary model where the mechanisms of dynamic environment and preference selection are introduced in the networked prisoner’s dilemma game is considered. Individual preference selection is introduced in the strategy update process to probe how the preferences of the latent strategy sources interfere with individual behaviors. The environment defined in the model is not only heterogeneous, but also evolves with the evolution of individual strategies. Through conducting large-scale Monte Carlo simulations, we draw a conclusion that the introduction of evolutionary environment-related preference selection is an effective promoter of cooperation even under a severe temptation. Our exploration indicates that the coevolutionary model may have a practical significance and provide a new insight into the analysis of the origin of cooperation in structured populations for further research.
Magnon dark mode in a strong driving microwave cavity
Authors: Bi M. X. , Yan X. H. , Xiao Y. , Dai C. J.
Published: November 2019

Inspired by the new discovery that the nonlinear dynamics of the cavity magnon polaritons have been observed with a small yttrium iron garnet (YIG) sphere (which introduces a nonlinear Kerr effect) placed into a microwave cavity, we theoretically study the nonlinear behaviors of the magnon dark mode without the magnon Kerr effect by inserting two YIG spheres into a microwave cavity under the strong driving field. The resulting bistability features of the magnon dark mode are sensitive to the frequency detuning between two YIGs and the magnetic field. Especially, when two YIGs have a finite frequency detuning, the magnon dark mode at the cavity resonance frequency does not display bistability. Our research not only sheds light on the nonlinear effect of the magnon dark mode in a strong driving field but also provides a theoretical basis for the application in information storage and novel spintronics.
On-chip rotational manipulation of microbeads and oocytes using acoustic microstreaming generated by oscillating asymmetrical microstructures
Authors: Feng Lin , Song Bin , Chen Yuanyuan , Liang Shuzhang , Dai Yuguo , Zhou Qiang , Chen Dixiao , Bai Xue , Feng Yanmin , Jiang Yonggang , Zhang Deyuan , Arai Fumihito
Published: November 2019

The capability to precisely rotate cells and other micrometer-sized biological samples is invaluable in biomedicine, bioengineering, and biophysics. We propose herein a novel on-chip cell rotation method using acoustic microstreaming generated by oscillating asymmetrical microstructures. When the vibration is applied to a microchip with our custom-designed microstructures, two different modes of highly localized microvortices are generated that are utilized to precisely achieve in-plane and out-of-plane rotational manipulation of microbeads and oocytes. The rotation mechanism is studied and verified using numerical simulations. Experiments of the microbeads are conducted to evaluate the claimed functions and investigate the effects of various parameters, such as the frequency and the driving voltage on the acoustically induced flows. Accordingly, it is shown that the rotational speed and direction can be effectively tuned on demand in single-cell studies. Finally, the rotation of swine oocytes is involved as further applications. By observing the maturation stages of M2 after the exclusion of the first polar body of operated oocytes, the proposed method is proved to be noninvasive. Compared with the conventional approaches, our acoustofluidic cell rotation approach can be simple-to-fabricate and easy-to-operate, thereby allowing rotations irrespective of the physical properties of the specimen under investigation.
Zwitterion π–conjugated network polymer based on guanidinium and β-ketoenol as a heterogeneous organo-catalyst for chemical fixation of CO2 into cyclic carbonates
Authors: Garai Mousumi , Rozyyev Vepa , Ullah Zakir , Jamal Aqil , Yavuz Cafer T.
Published: November 2019

The chemical fixation of CO2 with epoxides to cyclic carbonate is an attractive 100% atom economic reaction. It is a safe and green alternative to the route from diols and toxic phosgene. In this manuscript, we present a new zwitterionic π–conjugated catalyst (Covalent Organic Polymer, COP-213) based on guanidinium and β-ketoenol functionality, which is synthesized from triaminoguanidinium halide and β-ketoenols via the ampoule method at 120 °C. The catalyst is characterized by FTIR-attenuated total reflection (ATR), Powder X-Ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, XPS, and for surface area Brunauer–Emmett–Teller and CO2 uptake. It shows quantitative conversion and selectivity in chemical fixation of CO2 to epoxides under ambient conditions and without the need for cocatalysts, metals, solvent, or pressure. The catalyst can be recycled at least three times without the loss of reactivity.
Ultrasonic spinning rheometry test on the rheology of gelled food for making better tasting desserts
Authors: Yoshida Taiki , Tasaka Yuji , Fischer Peter
Published: November 2019

Rheological properties of gelled foods that may relate to the physics of the fluids in the swallowing process of complex food components are determined by ultrasonic spinning rheometry (USR) [T. Yoshida et al., “Efficacy assessments in ultrasonic spinning rheometry: Linear viscoelastic analysis on non-Newtonian fluids,” J. Rheol. 63, 503–517 (2019)]. Through rheological evaluations of thixotropic gelled food, the inaccuracies in standard rheometer data to capture the true-rheological property are discussed first with steady rotational and oscillatory tests; the inaccuracies arise from commonly existing problems that cannot be directly observed in standard rheometers (wall-slip, shear banding, shear localization, elastic instability, etc.). The results evaluated by standard rheometers would be related to the measurements being specific response, depending on the geometry of the measurement device. The USR test discussed here shows the potential to overcome these problems in the rheological evaluation of gelled foods and reflects the advantages offered by USR such as spatial, local, and oscillation cycle measurements; the results with the transient flow curve that has not previously been discussed can be usefully interpreted, and the stability of the food materials in the unsteady shear displayed is of great importance in understanding which rheology indicates the better texture.
Velocity of a large bubble rising in a stagnant liquid inside an inclined rectangular channel
Authors: Tihon Jaroslav , Ezeji Kingsley
Published: November 2019

The velocity of large air bubbles rising in an inclined rectangular channel filled up with stagnant water is investigated within the inertial flow regime. The experiments based on bubble observation by means of a high-speed camera are carried-out in a versatile channel with easily adaptable geometry over a wide range of inclination angles. The results obtained in vertical channels of various aspect ratios are confronted with the previous analytical predictions to confirm bubble velocity scaling based on the channel perimeter. The extrapolation of velocity measurements done at very low inclinations then provides the translation velocities of large bubbles corresponding to horizontal channel placements. These velocities agree well with the results of previous channel emptying experiments and suggest velocity scaling based on the channel height. Markedly different dependences of the bubble rise velocity on the channel inclination are observed in flat and tall channels. The analysis of our experimental data provides a simple model for the prediction of the bubble rise velocity in inclined rectangular channels. The effects of leveling and buoyancy, which are jointly acting on bubbles in inclined channels, are incorporated into the model through two principal parameters: the limiting bubble velocities achieved at the horizontal and vertical channel placement. Considering the inertial regime of large Taylor bubbles, these limiting velocities are predictable with a sufficient accuracy.
Rapid and multi-cycle smFISH enabled by microfluidic ion concentration polarization for in-situ profiling of tissue-specific gene expression in whole C. elegans
Authors: Sun Gongchen , Wan Jason , Lu Hang
Published: November 2019

Understanding gene regulation networks in multicellular organisms is crucial to decipher many complex physiological processes ranging from development to aging. One technique to characterize gene expression with tissue-specificity in whole organisms is single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (smFISH). However, this protocol requires lengthy incubation times, and it is challenging to achieve multiplexed smFISH in a whole organism. Multiplexing techniques can yield transcriptome-level information, but they require sequential probing of different genes. The inefficient macromolecule exchange through diffusion-dominant transport across dense tissues is the major bottleneck. In this work, we address this challenge by developing a microfluidic/electrokinetic hybrid platform to enable multicycle smFISH in an intact model organism, Caenorhabditis elegans. We integrate an ion concentration polarization based ion pump with a microfluidic array to rapidly deliver and remove gene-specific probes and stripping reagents on demand in individual animals. Using our platform, we can achieve rapid smFISH, an order of magnitude faster than traditional smFISH protocols. We also demonstrate the capability to perform multicycle smFISH on the same individual samples, which is impossible to do off-chip. Our method hence provides a powerful tool to study individual-specific, spatially resolvable, and large-scale gene expression in whole organisms.
Effects of stroke deviation on hovering aerodynamic performance of flapping wings
Authors: Hu Fujia , Liu Xiaomin
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the typical normal-hovering mode with different surging motions is numerically simulated by solving two-dimensional unsteady Navier-Stokes equations with the aim of investigating the effects of stroke deviation on aerodynamic performance. An elliptic wing model with 2% thickness is employed, conducting a horizontal motion (plunge), a vertical motion (surge), and a rotating motion (pitch). A low Reynolds number of 100 is adopted. The various surging motion in each half-stroke is defined by a half-sine or full-sine waveform, while the pitching and plunging motions are fixed for 16 patterns. The details of the aerodynamic force histories, vortex dynamics, induced jet effects, and time-averaged aerodynamics are systematically analyzed. The results show that for most patterns, stroke deviation plays a negative role in reducing lift and increasing energy consumption, which results in a decline of lifting efficiency. The forward surging motion that commences up the horizontal stroke plane attenuates the wake capture mechanism and reinforces the delayed stall mechanism. Compared to the typical normal-hovering pattern with no deviation, the resulting lift in pattern E decreases at the beginning of stroke and increases at the midstroke. The downward surging motion shows an opposite effect on the aerodynamics. The minimum power (−10.2%) is consumed in pattern F, although the minimum lift is generated in the meantime. In addition, the maximum lift augmentation of 8.7% is produced in pattern I along with the characteristic of power economy. Our study can provide advice on utilizing stroke deviation to increasing lift production and decreasing power consumption.
Ferroelectric properties of ion-irradiated bismuth ferrite layers grown via molecular-beam epitaxy
Authors: Mei Antonio B. , Saremi Sahar , Miao Ludi , Barone Matthew , Tang Yongjian , Zeledon Cyrus , Schubert Jürgen , Ralph Daniel C. , Martin Lane W. , Schlom Darrell G.
Published: November 2019

We systematically investigate the role of defects, introduced by varying synthesis conditions and by carrying out ion irradiation treatments, on the structural and ferroelectric properties of commensurately strained bismuth ferrite BixFe2−xO3 layers grown on SrRuO3-coated DyScO3(110)o substrates using adsorption-controlled ozone molecular-beam epitaxy. Our findings highlight ion irradiation as an effective approach for reducing through-layer electrical leakage, a necessary condition for the development of reliable ferroelectrics-based electronics.
Laser ablation plasma with solenoid field confinement
Authors: Wang G. C. , Zhao H. Y. , Jin Q. Y. , Zhang J. J. , Sun L. T. , Zhao H. W.
Published: November 2019

A Laser Ion Source (LIS) can produce high charge state and high intensity ion beams (∼emA), especially, refractory metallic ion beams, which makes it a promising candidate as an ion source for heavy ion cancer therapy facilities and future accelerator complexes, where pulsed high intensity and high charged heavy ion beams are required. However, it is difficult for the LIS to obtain a long pulse width while ensuring high current intensity, thus limiting the application of the LIS. To solve the conflict, magnetic fields are proposed to confine the expansion of the laser produced plasma. With a solenoid along the normal direction to the target surface, the lateral adiabatic expansion of the laser ablation plasma is suppressed which extends the pulse width of the ion beam effectively. The characteristics of laser ablation plasma with solenoid field confinement will be presented and discussed in this paper.
Rhes, a striatal-enriched protein, promotes mitophagy via Nix
Authors: Sharma Manish , Jarquín Uri Nimrod Ramírez , Rivera Oscar , Kazantzis Melissa , Eshraghi Mehdi , Shahani Neelam , Sharma Vishakha , Tapia Ricardo , Subramaniam Srinivasa
Published: November 2019

Significance

Damaged mitochondria are eliminated by lysosomes, a process called mitophagy. However, the brain tissue specific roles and mechanisms of mitophagy remain unknown. We report that Rhes, a protein highly enriched in the striatum, eliminates damaged mitochondria via mitophagy, a function that may regulate the optimum number and function of mitochondria in the striatum. However, when mitochondria are irreversibly damaged, as in the presence of 3-NP (an inhibitor of complex II, SDH), Rhes exacerbates mitophagy in association with Nix, a mitophagy receptor and promotes cell death. Intriguingly, Rhes can travel via membranous protrusions from a healthy cell to the neighboring cell and interacts with the damaged mitochondria via Nix. Collectively, Rhes acts as “mitochondrial surveillant,” and excessive mitophagy may account for striatal vulnerability in brain.
Usage Fluctuation Analysis
Authors: McEnery Tony , Brezina Vaclav , Baker Helen
Published: November 2019

This article introduces a methodology for the diachronic analysis of large historical corpora, Usage Fluctuation
Analysis (UFA). UFA looks at the fluctuation of the usage of a word as observed through collocation. It presupposes neither a
commitment to a specific semantic theory, nor that the results will focus solely on semantics. We focus, rather, upon a word’s
usage. UFA considers large amounts of evidence about usage, through time, as made available by historical corpora, displaying
fluctuation in word usage in the form of a graph. The paper provides guidelines for the interpretation of UFA graphs and provides
three short case studies applying the technique to (i) the analysis of the word its and (ii) two words related to
social actors, whore and harlot. These case studies relate UFA to prior, labour intensive, corpus and historical
analyses. They also highlight the novel observations that the technique affords.
Toxocara
and its species.
Authors: Ziegler M. A. , Macpherson C. N. L.
Published: November 2019

This systematic review focuses on the nematode genus
Toxocara
and its zoonotic and non-zoonotic species and provides an update to that published by Warren almost half a century ago. Currently, 26 species of
Toxocara
have been described morphologically and four differentiated by molecular techniques. The most frequently reported and wide spread zoonotic species is
Toxocara canis
. Zoonotic infection with
T. cati
remains controversial and only a few infections, mostly in children with ocular larval migrans (OLM), have been reported. To date, none have been confirmed using molecular techniques. Only a single-suspected case of human infection with
T. pteropodis
has been reported and this species has yet to be confirmed as zoonotic. Of the non-zoonotic species
T. vitulorum
is of major economic importance and there are 13 minor species:
T. alienata
,
T. apodemi
,
T. genettae
,
T. indica
,
T. leonine
,
T. mackerrasae
,
T. malaysiensis
,
T. paradoxura
,
T. pearsei
,
T. sprenti
,
T. surkattae
,
T. tanuki
and
T. vajrasthirae
. Nine species have been reported only once:
T. canarisi
,
T. cynonycteridis
,
T. elephantis
,
T. herpestum
,
T. hippopotami
,
T. lyncis
,
T. manzadiensis
,
T. vincenti
and
T. warreni
. Toxocara occurs in many definitive host species: canids, felids, civets, mongoose, cattle, raccoons, bats and rodents. In humans,
T. canis
infections can result in four distinct syndromes: visceral larval migrans, OLM, neuro-toxocariasis and covert toxocariasis. Serological tests supplemented by molecular and imaging techniques provide the basis of diagnosis and may also add to the longitudinal monitoring of treatment. Seroprevalence in humans in developed countries ranges from 3 to 22% and in developing countries from 10 to 92%. Vertical transmission of the parasite in definitive hosts facilitates the earliest potential production of eggs from young animals and provides challenging yet important control opportunities. Climate change and increasing human and companion animal populations have facilitated an expansion in the geographical range of this zoonosis. Behavioural changes coupled with increased urbanization enhance potential transmission, as people and dogs become increasingly crowded together facilitating opportunities for
T. canis
transmission, and a greater understanding of these factors should be examined to facilitate appropriate and cost-effective control programmes. Anthelminthic used in the elimination of adult parasites from dog or cat intestines can provide an effective control with toxocariasis. Control measures using a one health approach coordinating the expertise of physicians, veterinarians, public health workers, dog owners and aided by legislation facilitates a best practice approach to control.
Vimentin protects cells against nuclear rupture and DNA damage during migration
Authors: Patteson Alison E. , Vahabikashi Amir , Pogoda Katarzyna , Adam Stephen A. , Mandal Kalpana , Kittisopikul Mark , Sivagurunathan Suganya , Goldman Anne , Goldman Robert D. , Janmey Paul A.
Published: November 2019

Mammalian cells frequently migrate through tight spaces during normal embryogenesis, wound healing, diapedesis, or in pathological situations such as metastasis. Nuclear size and shape are important factors in regulating the mechanical properties of cells during their migration through such tight spaces. At the onset of migratory behavior, cells often initiate the expression of vimentin, an intermediate filament protein that polymerizes into networks extending from a juxtanuclear cage to the cell periphery. However, the role of vimentin intermediate filaments (VIFs) in regulating nuclear shape and mechanics remains unknown. Here, we use wild-type and vimentin-null mouse embryonic fibroblasts to show that VIFs regulate nuclear shape and perinuclear stiffness, cell motility in 3D, and the ability of cells to resist large deformations. These changes increase nuclear rupture and activation of DNA damage repair mechanisms, which are rescued by exogenous reexpression of vimentin. Our findings show that VIFs provide mechanical support to protect the nucleus and genome during migration.
ALK4 coordinates extracellular and intrinsic signals to regulate development of cortical somatostatin interneurons
Authors: Göngrich Christina , Krapacher Favio A. , Munguba Hermany , Fernández-Suárez Diana , Andersson Annika , Hjerling-Leffler Jens , Ibáñez Carlos F.
Published: November 2019

Although the role of transcription factors in fate specification of cortical interneurons is well established, how these interact with extracellular signals to regulate interneuron development is poorly understood. Here we show that the activin receptor ALK4 is a key regulator of the specification of somatostatin interneurons. Mice lacking ALK4 in GABAergic neurons of the medial ganglionic eminence (MGE) showed marked deficits in distinct subpopulations of somatostatin interneurons from early postnatal stages of cortical development. Specific losses were observed among distinct subtypes of somatostatin+/Reelin+ double-positive cells, including Hpse+ layer IV cells targeting parvalbumin+ interneurons, leading to quantitative alterations in the inhibitory circuitry of this layer. Activin-mediated ALK4 signaling in MGE cells induced interaction of Smad2 with SATB1, a transcription factor critical for somatostatin interneuron development, and promoted SATB1 nuclear translocation and repositioning within the somatostatin gene promoter. These results indicate that intrinsic transcriptional programs interact with extracellular signals present in the environment of MGE cells to regulate cortical interneuron specification.
Spatiotemporal organization and protein dynamics involved in regulated exocytosis of MMP-9 in breast cancer cells
Authors: Stephens Dominique C. , Osunsanmi Nicole , Sochacki Kem A. , Powell Tyrel W. , Taraska Justin W. , Harris Dinari A.
Published: November 2019

Altered regulation of exocytosis is an important mechanism controlling many diseases, including cancer. Defects in exocytosis have been implicated in many cancer cell types and are generally attributed to mutations in cellular transport, trafficking, and assembly of machinery necessary for exocytosis of secretory vesicle cargo. In these cancers, up-regulation of trafficking and secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), a proteolytic enzyme, is responsible for degrading the extracellular matrix, a necessary step in tumor progression. Using TIRF microscopy, we identified proteins associated with secretory vesicles containing MMP-9 and imaged the local dynamics of these proteins at fusion sites during regulated exocytosis of MMP-9 from MCF-7 breast cancer cells. We found that many regulators of exocytosis, including several Rab GTPases, Rab effector proteins, and SNARE/SNARE modulator proteins, are stably assembled on docked secretory vesicles before exocytosis. At the moment of fusion, many of these components are quickly lost from the vesicle, while several endocytic proteins and lipids are simultaneously recruited to exocytic sites at precisely that moment. Our findings provide insight into the dynamic behavior of key core exocytic proteins, accessory proteins, lipids, and some endocytic proteins at single sites of secretory vesicle fusion in breast cancer cells.
Polarization dependent multiphoton absorption in ZnO thin films
Authors: Hollinger Richard , Gupta Dishiti , Zapf Maximilian , Karst Maximilian , Röder Robert , Uschmann Ingo , Reislöhner Udo , Kartashov Daniil , Ronning Carsten , Spielmann Christian
Published: November 2019

We present a simple non-destructive approach for studying the polarization dependence of nonlinear absorption processes in semiconductors. The method is based on measuring the yield of the near UV photoluminescence as a function of polarization and intensity of femtosecond laser pulses. In particular, we investigated the polarization dependence of three photon laser absorption in intrinsic and Al-doped ZnO thin films. Both specimen show stronger emission for linearly polarized excitation compared to circular polarization. The ratios for the three-photon absorption coefficients are about 1.8 and independent of the doping. It is shown that Al-doped films have lower threshold for stimulated emission in comparison to the intrinsic films.
Brownian motion and beyond: first-passage, power spectrum, non-Gaussianity, and anomalous diffusion
Authors: Metzler Ralf
Published: November 2019

Brownian motion is a ubiquitous physical phenomenon across the sciences. After its discovery by Brown and intensive study since the first half of the 20th century, many different aspects of Brownian motion and stochastic processes in general have been addressed in Statistical Physics. In particular, there now exists a very large range of applications of stochastic processes in various disciplines. Here we provide a summary of some of the recent developments in the field of stochastic processes, highlighting both the experimental findings and theoretical frameworks.
Retraction: Evaluation of Antifouling Coating performance With Commercial and Lemon Natural Biocide on Composite Fiberglass Surface (IOP Conf. Ser.: Earth Environ. Sci. 291 012015)
Authors: Asmalina Mohamed Saat  , Muhammad Irfan Sabri  , Hanisah Johor  , Fatin Zawani Zainal Azaim  , Mohd Iqbal Lokman
Published: November 2019

This paper was retracted by IOP Publishing on 01 November 2019. This paper has been retracted as it does not meet the terms of the IOP Proceedings Licence.

Retraction published: 01 November 2019
Ecological and geochemical impact of an underground colliery waste discharge to a river
Authors: Morrison K G , Reynolds J K , Belmer N , Wright I A
Published: November 2019

This study investigated the impact of mine wastewater disposal to a nearby river (the Bargo River). Mean electrical conductivity (EC) increased in surface waters below the mine discharge, rising more than six times from (219.5 μS/cm) upstream to 1551 μS/cm below the waste inflow. River pH increased from 7.12 (upstream) to 8.67 (downstream). The mine discharge strongly modified the ionic composition of the river. The mean concentration of several metals in the river were increased due to the mine wastewater. Nickel increased from 1.0 μg/L (upstream) to 32 μg/L (downstream). Zinc increased from 3.5 μg/L (upstream) to 23.5 μg/L (downstream). Our study also assessed the biological uptake of pollutants by growing weeping willow (Salix babylonica) cuttings in mine wastewater and contrasting to ‘control’ cuttings grown in river water from upstream of the mine. After growing in the laboratory for several weeks, the cuttings accumulated metals, dominated by barium, strontium and lithium. Results from the study constituted one of the most detailed geochemical and ecological studies investigating the impact of the coal mine waste discharge to an Australian river. Recommendations are suggested for improved regulation of the mine discharge to reduce its wastewater environmental impact.
Geochemical impact of urban development on fragile freshwater wetlands
Authors: Carroll R , Reynolds J K , Wright I A
Published: November 2019

Urbanization is associated with increased cover of impervious surfaces, which poses significant challenges to freshwater ecosystems globally. Implications of catchment urbanization include altered natural hydrology, erosion, weed invasions and modified water chemistry. Blue Mountains Upland Swamps are sensitive freshwater ecosystems located in the Blue Mountains region in south-eastern Australia. They have high conservation value as they are located within a World Heritage Area, are a listed ‘endangered ecological community’ in Australia and contain endemic and endangered flora and fauna. Water chemistry was assessed in four naturally vegetated and four urban swamps. Urban swamps had higher impervious cover and modified water chemistry, with elevated pH, electrical conductivity and major ions compared to non-urban swamps. Water in urban swamps had elevated calcium, potassium and bicarbonate compared to non-urban catchments, by 19.8, 5.2 and 10.3 times respectively. Although further research is needed, we hypothesize that common concrete materials, particularly drainage infrastructure, strongly influenced differences between urban and nonurban catchments. This adds to growing international research highlighting the potential role of concrete in modifying urban water chemistry due to gradual dissolution and mobilization of ions. In an increasingly urban world, consideration of the ecological consequences of urbanization is required to guide future management approaches.
Greywater reuse in the water-scarce Gulf Region
Authors: Paleologos E K , Elhakeem M , El Amrousi M , Canal-Forgues E , Saba M
Published: November 2019

Treated wastewater has emerged in many countries as a component of the water stream and a way to supplement, primarily, landscape and agricultural irrigation. Several European and Asian states have, in addition, promoted the use of greywater in the interior of buildings. Regulations for greywater reuse are, by and large, not in place and quality standards for different types of application are in evolution. At the same time constructed wetlands as stand-alone or as part of the wastewater treatment system have shown promise as a way to improve wastewater effluent, while upgrading ecosystem and aesthetic aspects of a site. Gulf countries, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are faced with natural water scarcity, exorbitant water demands, beyond their renewable resources and desalination capacities, overloaded wastewater treatment systems that have resulted in releases of untreated wastewater in the marine environment, and increasing populations and expanded economic activities that would further accentuate existing water problems. The current article discusses these issues and, given the public reluctance in the UAE to accept interior greywater reuse, it focuses on the applicability of constructed wetlands in the Gulf region and their potential to enhance irrigation streams and landscape appeal.
Optimization of ultrasound irradiation for palm oil mill effluent
Authors: Wong L P , Isa M H , Bashir M J K , Guo X X
Published: November 2019

The objective of this work was to investigate the effect of ultrasound irradiation on palm oil mill effluent (POME) treatment. The experiment was statistically designed by response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) to evaluate individual and interactive effects of operational independent variables including ultrasonication amplitude, ultrasonication time and total solids concentration. The treatment performance was assessed by three dependent variables, viz., particle size reduction, total suspended solid reduction and organic solubilisation improvement. Experimental results showed that ultrasonication irradiation has positive effect on POME treatment. The optimum operation condition suggested by RSM were ultrasonication amplitude of 50%, ultrasonication duration of 18.94 mins and total solids concentration of 6.47% with expected organic disintegration results as 47.7% particle size reduction, 18.9% of solid reduction and 31.5% of solubilisation improvement.
The painted river project: Art meets science – communicating cultural transformation through community engagement
Authors: Robba L , Wright I A
Published: November 2019

The Painted River Project intuitive sees art and water science join forces to engage directly with community by painting a new future for our river systems. The project was designed to communicate the need for cultural transformation towards a real understanding of the role water and our river systems play in underpinning human health and wellbeing, including our connection to the natural world and the health of the planet. The key aim of the (PRP) is to actively engage the community, through site-specific participatory art-making, science and water testing and through this to explore our shared connection to water and place, through creative and scientific interaction. The human-centred nature of art provides the ‘cultural window’ through which to view scientific knowledge by advancing tangible ways to view complex problems and as a ‘call to action’ to help inform innovative approaches. In August 2017, the first instalment of the (PRP) was held at the Duck River, Auburn, in Western Sydney as part of RiverFest, an initiative of the Parramatta River Catchment Group (PRCG). At the event, the community were provided with paint, canvases, easels and facilitators who helped guide the artistic process and the production of paintings that expressed ‘their future vision of an unpolluted river’. As a result, 128 different artworks were produced by a hugely diverse range of community members.
‘Swimmability’: A key element for communities to safely engage with Australian urban rivers
Authors: Rowlands T , Ryan M M , Estreich A , Wright I A
Published: November 2019

Australia’s largest cities are growing, and this is placing increasing pressure on urban waterways. There is a growing awareness that the quality of life in Australian urban communities is enhanced through the engagement of people with healthy urban rivers. Swimming, boating, and fishing in many Australian urban waterways are popular recreational activities. Swimming and other activities associated with waterways contributes to quality of life in urban communities. Swimming in urban rivers can be risky. Hazards include dangerous currents, aquatic plants, submerged hazards, algal blooms, and unsuitable water quality. In Sydney, Australia’s largest City, swimming is popular in the Hawkesbury-Nepean River. Data from showed that E. coli levels in the river occasionally exceeded safe recreational guidelines for human health. The results are not reported to the public. We believe that it is more important than ever that government, industry and scientific bodies work to protect and improve the water quality of Australian urban rivers as our cities grow. Sharing this information with the community needs to consider education programs, public forums, and timely communication of the current state of local Australian urban rivers regarding their ‘swimmability’.
Characterizations of flow over stepped spillways with steps having transverse slopes
Authors: Ali A S , Yousif O S Q
Published: November 2019

The top and downstream face of the embankment dams must be protected from overtopping damages happen due to extreme floods. This can be achieved by providing one of the overtopping protection systems. The most common overtopping protection systems are those which have stepped fashion. This type of protection systems consists of a series of continues steps mostly made of concrete. In this study, the effects of the transverse slope of steps on flow properties over the overtopping protection systems were explored experimentally. Steps with transverse slopes are those which have inclinations from one spillway wall towards the other spillway wall in a zigzag way. To achieve the goals of the study, three physical models, stepped spillways, were made of wood and tested in a prismatic flume. The width, depth, and length of the wooden models were 0.6 m, 0.96 m and 1.92 m respectively. Sixteen steps (with three different transverse slopes ranging from zero to 5.7°) were cut into the surface of the models from the crest to the toe. The models were then tested under various flow rates ranging from 0.003 to 0.05 m3/s. The results showed that the models with steps having transverse slope had higher energy dissipation capability compared to the model with steps having zero transverse slopes (flat steps); up to 14% higher. In addition, for the models with steps having the transverse slope, the onset of the skimming flow occurred at higher ratios of critical depth (yc) to step height (h); greater than 1.37. However, the distances of the inception points from the first step brink (inception point locations) were reduced by half, on average, for the model with steps having a transverse slope of 5.7°.
Reactor design optimization on the electrocoagulation treatment of sugarcane molasses-based distillery wastewater
Authors: Cruz K D , Mateo N M , Tangara N P , Almendrala M C
Published: November 2019

Electrode geometry and configuration were optimized for the electrocoagulation treatment of sugarcane molasses – based distillery wastewater. Four different reactors, — bipolar plates (BP), monopolar plates (MP), bipolar rods (BR), and monopolar rods (MR) — were constructed and compared based on their ability to reduce the following wastewater parameters.: Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), turbidity, and oil and grease. Other electrocoagulation parameters such as current supplied, applied voltage, aspect ratio, and specific electrode area were held constant. The BP reactor yielded the highest reduction percentage among the parameters: COD = 43%, BOD = 49%, TSS = 47%, turbidity = 54%, and oil and grease = 79. Moreover, the BP reactor gave the least metal consumption at 0.47 kg/m3 after 1.5 hours of treatment, thus making it the best reactor design among the four reactors considered.
Causality of environmental concerns, attachment to place, risk perception, and preventive behaviors in environmentally sensitive areas of Taipei, Taiwan
Authors: Lee Y-J
Published: November 2019

Taiwan is frequently threatened by the environmental, social and economic pressures brought about by climate change. Due to distinct synthesized vulnerabilities, coupled with the impact of the ecological footprint, cities in Taiwan obtain different environmentally sensitive areas. This investigation adopts the Structure Equation Model (SEM) to compare the causality of residents’ environmental attitudes, attachment to place, risk perception, and preventive behaviors in an environmentally sensitive district (Wanhua District) and an environmentally insensitive district (Zhongshan District) of Taipei. Questionnaires, from a stratified random sampling survey, covering these four scopes were carried out in Taipei and 600 successful questionnaires were gathered. It is found out that residents in these two districts do not concern much with the history of disasters in their districts and are unable to gain knowledge regarding how to deal with the challenges of future disasters. Furthermore, attachment to place has no obvious impacts on environmental concerns, risk perception and preventive behaviors of residents in the two environmental risk areas of Taipei.
Spatial and source disparities of groundwater quality in Dawakin-Tofa local government area of Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulazeez A , Adamu A U
Published: November 2019

The research assessed the spatial and source variations in groundwater quality in different locations and wells respectively across Dawakin-Tofa Local Government Area. The study area was divided into 10 by imposing a grid on its map and thereafter 10 hand dug wells and boreholes were selected, one from each location. Physical and chemical parameters like temperature, pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and heavy metals were tested in the laboratory and figures statistically compared with Nigeria’s national standard using ANOVA. The most notable difference in quality parameters between open wells and boreholes is in TDSs, electrical conductivity and chlorine content. The differences recorded in the other quality parameters ranged from between 0.0026 mg/l (in the case of lead) to 0.7°C (in the case of Temperature). This showed that the physio-chemical properties of open wells and boreholes are not much significantly different in the areas. The mean difference of TDSs between wells and boreholes in Dawakin-Tofa LGA is 35.721 mg/l, meaning that well waters are generally more turbid than that of boreholes which was not unexpected because of structural differences and modes of operation. While some quality parameters in Dawakin Tofa like TDSs, Electrical Conductivity, Temperature, Chlorine and Manganese content generally recorded non-harmful values as compared to the drinking standard; others like lead, chromium, cadmium recorded harmful values. Only Jalli (with above 300) and Tattarawa (with above 400) mg/l recorded TDS levels close to the maximum accepted limit of 500. This study further confirms the increased danger and risk of contaminated groundwater among consumer’s not only urban areas, but also in rural areas as well. Though, the levels of some elements like Sodium, Chlorine, Manganese and Magnesium in groundwater of Dawakin-Tofa LGA are currently within the National Acceptable limits, but the concentration of heavy metals clearly shows there is serious risk. Continuous monitoring, control and necessary policy decisions were recommended.
Dynamic model for the management of water resource and water aptitude for irrigation of the Togllahuayco gorge in the Guangopolo micro-basin
Authors: Carrera-Villacrés D V , Quinteros-Carabalí J A , Gómez A J , Solano E M , Llumiquinga G E , Burgos C A
Published: November 2019

Water management is one of the fundamental principles for comprehensive management and water security and is affected in various ways by the degradation of watersheds, mainly the agriculture sector due to the reduction of water resources and soil erosion. The objective of this research was to implement a dynamic model for the water management of the Quebrada de Togllahuayco as a modeling and dynamic prediction tool and thus determine the quantity of water available for a sustainable quinoa crop and the adaptation to future conditions. This work involves the use of dynamic modeling applied to water supply for irrigation with a general model and the application for the ancestral population of La Toglla. A trend model with incidence of climate change and a current one under the initial variables is proposed. The Vensim 7.3.4 free software was used, determining a positive water balance to satisfy the needs of water, both to preserve the ecological flow and to use water for irrigation, since approximately 10,500 m3 is needed for cultivation, which is favorable for the use of water.