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Transition-edge sensors (TESs) have the potential to perform electron spectroscopic measurements with far greater measurement rates and efficiencies than can be achieved using existing electron spectrometers. Existing spectrometers filter electrons by energy before detecting a narrow energy band at a time, discarding the vast majority of electrons available for measurement. In contrast, TESs have intrinsic energy sensitivity and so do not require prior filtering to perform energy-resolved measurements. Despite this fundamental advantage, TES electron spectroscopy has not, to our knowledge, previously been reported in the literature. We present the results of a set of proof-of-principle experiments demonstrating TES electron spectroscopy experiments using Mo/Au TESs repurposed for electron calorimetry. Using these detectors, we successfully measured the electron spectrum generated by an electron beam striking a graphite target with energies between 750 and 2000 eV, at a noise-limited energy resolution of 4 eV. Based on the findings of these experiments, we suggest improvements that could be made to TES design to enhance their electron detection capabilities through the use of a dedicated electron absorber in the device with integrated electron optics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser Thomson scattering is a minimally intrusive diagnostic technique for determining electron temperature, density, and bulk velocity in plasma systems. Advances in technology have made possible the application of Thomson scattering to electric propulsion-relevant plasma systems, with reported electron number-density detection limits as low as 1 × 10 16 m − 3 , and electron temperatures from one-to-tens eV. However, the implementation of laser Thomson scattering in large vacuum testing facilities, wherein electric propulsion devices are tested, remains a challenge. This work presents the implementation of a laser Thomson scattering system in a large vacuum test facility at the Georgia Tech High Power Electric Propulsion Laboratory. The diagnostic was optimized for maximum light-collection efficiency and ease of re-alignment while the facility is at vacuum. The high light-collection efficiency allowed reduced accumulation times to achieve the target detection limit of 1 × 10 17 m − 3 . The diagnostic is used to measure axial electron property profiles in the near-field plume of a lanthanum hexaboride hollow cathode operating at 25 A on krypton at a background pressure of 1.3 × 10 − 6 Torr—Kr. The diagnostic is quantitatively compared to similar systems in the literature. The resulting axial points, collected from 2 to 8 mm downstream of the cathode keeper orifice, are qualitatively and quantitatively compared with simulations and experimental measurements made with electrostatic probes and laser-induced fluorescence. The main quantitative difference between measured values and results is the one to two order of magnitude difference in the peak electron density, being attributed to the relative size and location of the external anode with respect to the cathode keeper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic photovoltaic devices (OPVs) are attracting attention because of recent rapid enhancement of their power conversion efficiency. For further improvement, optimization of fabrication processes is one useful path to a solution. During OPV fabrication, particularly of the bulk heterojunction active layer, annealing treatments contribute to the device performance. Many studies have examined annealing-related properties. However, further research must clarify how paramagnetic species in the devices play their roles by annealing. Using well-known OPVs, we investigated the relation between spin-dependent recombination (SDR) current and the paramagnetic species, which vary the numbers by post-annealing with active layers consisting of poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) and [6,6]-phenyl-C 61 -butyric acid methyl ester (PC 61 BM). A simultaneous detection method of electron spin resonance (ESR) and electrically detected magnetic resonance (EDMR), which we originally developed, was applied to OPVs for the first time ever reported. Results show that PC 61 BM anion radicals generated by post-annealing of P3HT:PC 61 BM OPVs with a lithium fluoride (LiF)/aluminum (Al) electrode do not contribute to the SDR current at the interface and that P3HT cation radicals enhance the SDR current. By contrast, devices with an Al electrode without LiF decrease the total SDR current, although the quantities of cation radical molecules do not vary. This finding suggests that changes of the hole blocking layer in the devices caused by the annealing treatment affect the size of capture cross sections of P3HT cation radicals. Our new method of quantitative observation of the EDMR changes through the ESR signals is expected to be useful for investigating the capture cross sections in OPVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are used globally to control pests in the food industry. However, some have been banned due to their toxicity. Although they have been banned, OCPs are still discharged into the environment and persist for long periods of time. Therefore, this review focused on the occurrence, toxicity, and chromatographic determination of OCPs in vegetable oils over the last 22 years (2000–2022) (111 references). Literature search shows that OCPs kill pests by destroying endocrine, teratogenic, neuroendocrine, immune, and reproductive systems. However, only five studies investigated the fate of OCPs in vegetable oils and the outcome revealed that some of the steps involved during oil processing introduce more OCPs. Moreover, direct chromatographic determination of OCPs was mostly performed using online LC-GC methods fitted with oven transfer adsorption desorption interface. While indirect chromatographic determination was favored by QuEChERS extraction technique, gas chromatography frequently coupled to electron capture detection (ECD), gas chromatography in selective ion monitoring mode (SIM), and gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) were the most common techniques used for detection. However, the greatest challenge still faced by analytical chemists is to obtain clean extracts with acceptable extraction recoveries (70–120%). Hence, more research is still required to develop greener and selective extraction methods toward OCPs, thus improving extraction recoveries. Moreover, advanced techniques like gas chromatography high resolution mass spectrometry (GC-HRMS) must also be explored. OCPs prevalence in vegetable oils varied greatly in various countries, and concentrations of up to 1500 µg/kg were reported. Additionally, the percentage of positive samples ranged from 1.1 to 97.5% for endosulfan sulfate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid and reliable quench detection is vital for high current superconducting magnet system to prevent irreversible damage to a magnet by the quench phenomenon. The method for detecting the occurrence of a resistive transition has been widely adopted in the superconducting magnet. In the case of the voltage monitoring by means of dedicated taps, the electron quench detection device (EQDD) conversion unit, which converts detected high voltages into voltage-drop signal, should be required in the superconducting high field magnet. The power source of traditional quench detecting system, which can monitor for superconducting magnet with middle power operation, is supplied through the power transformer since the transformer can provide galvanic isolation between circuits. On the other hand, in the case of the super high magnet systems such as Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research and International Thermonuclear experimental reactor, since the maximum operation current and voltage of the super high field magnet keep over 60 kA and 50 kV DC, a passive component, which has strong an isolation device and high dielectric resistor qualities, has been required in the super high field magnet. If the power transformer is adopted in the super high field magnet, it can cause high cost for volume capacity since it needs for higher dielectric resistance value over 500 MΩ. Authors proposed the wireless resonance antenna and multi-receiver coils which can keep high level of dielectric resistance value with stability. As well as, the wireless power charging unit can reduce system volume due to multi-charging receivers for one antenna. In this study, authors investigated the effect of inserted resonator (Sx) coil between antenna and receiver coils, as well as, evaluated the electric field and magnetic field among the resonance coils under 300 W 370 kHz RF power generator since the strong electro-magnetic fields by the resonance coils can affect the electron devices inside of the EQDD module. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 can invade a variety of tissues, including the testis. Even though this virus is scarcely found in human semen polymerase chain reaction tests, autopsy studies confirm the viral presence in all testicular cell types, including spermatozoa and spermatids. Objective: To investigate whether the severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 is present inside the spermatozoa of negative polymerase chain reaction‐infected men up to 3 months after hospital discharge. Materials and methods: This cross‐sectional study included 13 confirmed moderate‐to‐severe COVID‐19 patients enrolled 30–90 days after the diagnosis. Semen samples were obtained and examined with real‐time polymerase chain reaction for RNA detection and by transmission electron microscopy. Results: In moderate‐to‐severe clinical scenarios, we identified the severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 inside spermatozoa in nine of 13 patients up to 90 days after discharge from the hospital. Moreover, some DNA‐based extracellular traps were reported in all studied specimens. Discussion and conclusion: Although severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 was not present in the infected men's semen, it was intracellularly present in the spermatozoa till 3 months after hospital discharge. The Electron microscopy (EM) findings also suggest that spermatozoa produce nuclear DNA‐based extracellular traps, probably in a cell‐free DNA‐dependent manner, similar to those previously described in the systemic inflammatory response to COVID‐19. In moderate‐to‐severe cases, the blood–testes barrier grants little defence against different pathogenic viruses, including the severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2. The virus could also use the epididymis as a post‐testicular route to bind and fuse to the mature spermatozoon and possibly accomplish the reverse transcription of the single‐stranded viral RNA into proviral DNA. These mechanisms can elicit extracellular cell‐free DNA formation. The potential implications of our findings for assisted conception must be addressed, and the evolutionary history of DNA‐based extracellular traps as preserved ammunition in animals' innate defence might improve our understanding of the severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 pathophysiology in the testis and spermatozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nHIGHLIGHTSThough metal ions like copper, iron, zinc, etc. are essential, but their dyshomeostasis is associated with several disorders. Therefore, fast, sensitive, and cost-effective monitoring of these cations will have a significant impact. Many recently reported small organic molecules were able to detect a specific metal ion because of certain variations in the electron/charge transfer processes occurring in those molecules after binding with metal ions. In this context, Schiff base molecules were widely used as fluorescence turn-on/turn-off probes for the detection of metal ions like Al3+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Fe3+, Ag+, heavy metal ions, etc. In this article, we have reviewed the recent developments in fluorimetric chemosensing of metal ions by Schiff bases based on the photo-induced electron transfer (PET) process. A variety of examples have been discussed in which PET was used as a cation recognition mechanism. Particular focus is placed on the molecular probes used for sensing, including their design, selectivity, sensitivity, and in some cases their potential bioimaging applications.Fluorescence chemosensing and bioimaging of Al3+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Fe3+, Ag+, heavy metal ions etc.Chemosensing by Schiff base probes on the basis of photo-induced electron transfer (PET) mechanism.Chemical structures of the probes, solvent system, fluorescence response, and their practical applications have been summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, planar and broadband hot-electron photodetectors (HE PDs) were established but exhibited degraded performances due to the adoptions of the single-junction configurations and the utilizations of absorbable films with thicknesses larger than the electronic mean free path. In this work, we present a five-layer design for planar HE PDs assisted by triple junctions in which an ultrathin Pt layer dominates the broadband and displays strong optical absorption (>0.9 from 900 nm to 1700 nm). Optical studies reveal that the optical admittance matching between optical admittances of designed device and air at all interested wavelengths is responsible for broadband light-trapping that induces prominent energy depositions in Pt layers. Electrical investigations show that, benefitting from suppressed hot-electron transport losses and increased hot-electron harvesting junctions, the predicted responsivity of the designed HE PD is up to 8.51 mA/W at 900 nm. Moreover, the high average absorption (responsivity) of 0.96 (3.66 mA/W) is substantially sustained over a broad incidence angle regardless of the polarizations of incident light. The comparison studies between five-layer and three-layer devices emphasize the superiority of five-layer design in strong optical absorption in Pt layers and efficient hot-electron extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of clinical testing, the traditional focus has been on the development of large-scale analysis equipment designed to process high volumes of samples with fully automatic and high-sensitivity measurements. However, there has been a growing demand in recent years for the development of analytical reagents tailored to point-of-care testing (POCT), which does not necessitate a specific location or specialized operator. This trend is epitomized using the lateral flow assay (LFA), which became a cornerstone during the 2019 pandemic due to its simplicity, speed of delivering results—within about 10 min from minimal sample concentrations—and user-friendly design. LFAs, with their paper-based construction, combine cost-effectiveness with ease of disposal, addressing both budgetary and environmental concerns comprehensively. Despite their compact size, LFAs encapsulate a wealth of technological ingenuity, embodying years of research and development. Current research is dedicated to further evolving LFA technology, paving the way for the next generation of diagnostic devices. These advancements aim to redefine accessibility, empower individuals, and enhance responsiveness to public health challenges. The future of LFAs, now unfolding, promises even greater integration into routine health management and emergency responses, underscoring their critical role in the evolution of decentralized and patient-centric healthcare solutions. In this review, the historical development of LFA and several of the latest LFA technologies using catalytic amplification, surface-enhanced Raman scattering, heat detection, electron chemical detections, magnetoresistance, and detection of reflected electrons detection are introduced to inspire readers for future research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The secondary electron spectrum (SES) contains complex surface information and is widely used in surface analysis technology. A theoretical model of the SES for metals was proposed to reveal the effect of the surface potential barrier on the SES. In our model, an improved inner secondary electron energy distribution was established according to the free electron gas model. The transmission coefficient of inner secondary electrons was determined by solving the density of electronic states. Finally, the model was verified by our experiments, and the effects of the coverage fraction and potential barrier height, width, and form on the SES were comprehensively analyzed. The results show that H2O adsorption lowers the barrier height and enhances the tunneling effect, resulting in the most probable energy shifting toward the low-energy end and full width at half maximum narrowing. In addition, increasing or broadening the barrier can weaken the secondary electron tunneling effect, reduce the secondary electron number, and increase the most probable energy and the full width at half maximum. The model in this paper provides a reliable analysis method for studying the SES under different surface barriers for metals. Relevant results have significant value for the analysis of scanning electron microscopy images and optimization of secondary electron detection systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents an algorithm for automatic detection of anomalous electron heating (AEH) events in the auroral E‐region ionosphere using data from the Poker Flat Incoherent Scatter Radar (PFISR). The algorithm considers both E‐region electron temperature and magnetically conjugate electric field measurements. Application of this algorithm to 14 years of PFISR data spanning 2010 through 2023 detected 505 AEH events. Measured electron temperatures increase linearly with plasma drift speeds. Statistical trends of AEH occurrence as a function of space weather indices (AE and F10.7) demonstrate correlations with the solar cycle and geomagnetic activity levels. The magnetic local time occurrence rates show preferences for dusk and dawn with most events in the dusk sector. Observed AEH events tend to appear in regions of relatively low electron density and do not appear inside intense auroral arcs with high electron density. Furthermore, AEH detection requires a higher electric field than predicted by the threshold for a positive growth rate of the Farley‐Buneman instability (FBI), according to linear fluid theory. The implications of these findings for kinetic theories of FBI and AEH are discussed. Plain Language Summary: The ionized portion of the upper atmosphere, known as the ionosphere, can conduct electrical currents. In cases where those currents are so large that the relative motion of the electrons and ions exceeds a critical threshold, the ionosphere becomes unstable. The resulting instability rapidly heats electrons in the lower ionosphere, producing what are known as anomalous electron heating (AEH) events. We use ionospheric data from a radar facility in Alaska to detect AEH events. Our detection algorithm identified 505 AEH events in 14 years of data (2010–2023). The occurrence rates of AEH are strongly correlated with the 11‐year solar cycle and indicators of auroral activity. Furthermore, AEH events preferentially occur at times near dawn and dusk, with the highest number of events in the dusk sector. The elevated electron temperatures increase linearly with the magnitude of the ionospheric electric field. Key Points: A novel detection algorithm for identifying anomalous electron heating events primarily based on plasma flow velocities is presentedAnalysis of Poker Flat Incoherent Scatter Radar data from 2010 to 2023 detected 505 eventsStatistical analysis of occurrence rates revealed a strong relationship with geomagnetic activity over the 11‐year solar cycle [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafast electron diffraction (UED) instruments typically operate at kHz or lower repetition rates and rely on indirect detection of electrons. However, these experiments encounter limitations because they are required to use electron beams containing a relatively large number of electrons (≫100 electrons/pulse), leading to severe space-charge effects. Consequently, electron pulses with long durations and large transverse diameters are used to interrogate the sample. Here, we introduce a novel UED instrument operating at a high repetition rate and employing direct electron detection. We operate significantly below the severe space-charge regime by using electron beams containing 1–140 electrons per pulse at 30 kHz. We demonstrate the ability to detect time-resolved signals from thin film solid samples with a difference contrast signal, Δ I / I 0 , and an instrument response function as low as 10−5 and 184-fs (FWHM), respectively, without temporal compression. Overall, our findings underscore the importance of increasing the repetition rate of UED experiments and adopting a direct electron detection scheme, which will be particularly impactful for gas-phase UED. Our newly developed scheme enables more efficient and sensitive investigations of ultrafast dynamics in photoexcited samples using ultrashort electron beams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chirality hold broad applications in life sciences, quantum devices, and various other areas. Traditionally, molecular chirality can be characterized by using steady-state circular dichroism spectroscopy. However, the techniques that can characterize excited state chirality are progressively capturing the public interest as it can provide the dynamic information for chirality generation and transfer. In this review, we focus on the theoretical background and the developmental history of femtosecond time-resolved circular dichroism spectroscopy (TR-CD) techniques around the world. Additionally, we provide examples to showcase the utility of these techniques in the analysis of the dynamical molecular chemical structures, the investigation of molecular chirality generation, and the detection of electron spin dynamics in semiconductor quantum dots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The domain of gamma-ray imaging necessitates technological advancements to surmount the challenge of energy-selective imaging. Conventional systems are constrained in their dynamic focus on specific energy ranges, a capability imperative for differentiating gamma-ray emissions from diverse sources. This investigation introduces an innovative imaging system predicated on the detection of recoil electrons, addressing the demand for adjustable energy selectivity. Our methodology encompasses the design of a gamma-ray imaging system that leverages recoil electron detection to execute energy-selective imaging. The system's efficacy was investigated experimentally, with emphasis on the adaptability of the energy selection window. The experimental outcomes underscore the system's adeptness at modulating the energy selection window, adeptly discriminating gamma rays across a stipulated energy spectrum. The results corroborate the system's adaptability, with an adjustable energy resolution that coincides with theoretical projections and satisfies the established criteria. This study affirms the viability and merits of utilizing recoil electrons for tunable energy-selective gamma-ray imaging. The system's conceptualization and empirical validation represent a notable progress in gamma-ray imaging technology, with prospective applications extending from medical imaging to astrophysics. This research sets a solid foundation for subsequent inquiries and advancements in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscale thermal imaging and temperature detection are of fundamental importance in diverse scientific and technological realms. Most nanoscale thermometry techniques focus on probing the temperature of lattice or phonons and are insensitive to nonequilibrium electrons, commonly referred to as "hot electrons." While terahertz scanning noise microscopy (SNoiM) has been demonstrated to be powerful in the thermal imaging of hot electrons, prior studies have been limited to room temperature. In this work, we report the development of a cryogenic SNoiM (Cryo-SNoiM) tailored for quantitative hot electron temperature detection at low temperatures. The microscope features a special two-chamber design where the sensitive terahertz detector, housed in a vacuum chamber, is efficiently cooled to ∼5 K using a pulse tube cryocooler. In a separate chamber, the atomic force microscope and the sample can be maintained at room temperature under ambient/vacuum conditions or cooled to ∼110 K via liquid nitrogen. This unique dual-chamber cooling system design enhances the efficacy of SNoiM measurements at low temperatures. It not only facilitates the pre-selection of tips at room temperature before cooling but also enables the quantitative derivation of local electron temperature without reliance on any adjustable parameters. The performance of Cryo-SNoiM is demonstrated through imaging the distribution of hot electrons in a cold, self-heated narrow metal wire. This instrumental innovation holds great promise for applications in imaging low-temperature hot electron dynamics and nonequilibrium transport phenomena across various material systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been used for many years as flame retardants. Due to their physicochemical and toxicological properties, they are considered to be persistent organic pollutants (POPs). BDE-209 is the main component of deca-BDE, the one PBDE commercial mixture currently approved for use in the European Union. The aim of this study was to analyse BDE-209 in surface soil samples from Warsaw and surrounding areas (Poland) as an indicator of environmental pollution with PBDEs, and to characterise the associated health risk. A total of 40 samples were analysed using gas chromatography with electron capture detection (GC-µECD). Concentrations of BDE-209 in soil ranged from 0.4 ng g−1 d.w. (limit of quantification) to 158 ng g−1 d.w. Overall, 52.5% of results were above the method's limit of quantification. The highest levels were found at several locations with heavy traffic and in the vicinity of a CHP plant in the city. The lowest concentrations were observed in most of the samples collected from low industrialized or green areas (<0.4 to 1.68 ng g−1 d.w.). Exposure to BDE-209 was estimated for one of the most sensitive populations, i.e., young children. The following exposure routes were selected: oral and dermal. No risk was found to young children's health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM) represents a prevalent form of primary malignant tumours in the central nervous system, but the options for effective treatment are extremely limited. Ferroptosis, as the most enriched programmed cell death process in glioma, makes a critical difference in glioma progression. Consequently, inducing ferroptosis has become an appealing strategy for tackling gliomas. Through the utilization of multi‐omics sequencing data analysis, flow cytometry, MDA detection and transmission electron microscopy, the impact of orexin‐A on ferroptosis in GBM was assessed. In this report, we provide the first evidence that orexin‐A exerts inhibitory effects on GBM proliferation via the induction of ferroptosis. This induction is achieved by instigating an unsustainable increase in iron levels and depletion of GPX4. Moreover, the regulation of TFRC, FTH1 and GPX4 expression through the targeting of NFE2L2 appears to be one of the potential mechanisms underlying orexin‐A‐induced ferroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an enhanced version of our previously developed bio-optical transceiver, presenting a significant advancement in nanosensor technology. Using self-assembled polymers, this nanodevice is capable of electron detection while maintaining biocompatibility, an essential feature for in vivo medical biosensors. This enhancement finds significance in the field of infectious disease control, particularly in the early detection of respiratory viruses, including high-threat pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2. The proposed system harnesses bioluminescence by converting electric signaling to visible blue light, effectively opening the path of linking nano-sized mechanisms to larger-scale systems, thereby pushing the boundaries of in vivo biomedical sensing. The performance evaluation of our technology is analytical and is based on the use of Markov chains, through which we assess the bit error probability. The calculated improvements indicate that this technology qualifies as a forerunner in terms of supporting the communication needs of smaller, safer, and more efficient manufactured sensor technologies for in vivo medical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report the fabrication of Heterometallo‐supramolecular polymer (H‐SMP) for the selective oxidation of nitrite with the investigation of some kinetic parameters by the complex formation of Co(II) and Fe(II) salts with the symmetrical ligand which is composed of terpyridine moieties specially referred to as [4′,4′′′′‐(1,4‐Phenylene)bis(2,2′:6′,2′′‐terpyridine)] to form polyCoFe. The characterization of polyCoFe was carried out using UV‐Vis titration, FT‐IR and SEM. The viscosity measurement of H‐SMP was utilized to calculate its molecular weight using Mark‐Houwink‐Sakurada equation. The electrochemical performance of polyCoFe_GCE was evaluated using the CV and EIS techniques. The kinetics of the irreversible electro‐oxidation mechanism were investigated by introducing variations in scan‐rate and pH. The concurrence observed between the experimental and simulated CV results provided additional evidence supporting the accuracy and reliability of the determined kinetic parameters. We investigated the efficiency of polyCoFe_GCE for nitrite detection at various concentrations using CV as well as amperometry methods. The amperometric technique showed a wide linear range of 0.66 to 194.15 μM and a low detection limit of 0.11 μM. In addition, modified electrode underwent interference, stability, and reproducibility tests. Real samples were analyzed using both CV and amperometry methods, and the obtained results were compared with those obtained from standard solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have studied theoretically magnetic resonance force microscopy with a high-frequency nanomechanical cantilever when the cantilever frequency matches the resonant frequency of a single electron spin. Our analysis shows that in this situation, there is a small probability that the cantilever will oscillate with a large frequency shift. This can open new experimental opportunities for increasing the sensitivity in the detection of a single electron spin or even a single nuclear spin by using a high-frequency cantilever. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the development of a portable Thomson scattering diagnostic system allowing simultaneous spatially and temporally resolved plasma property measurements for low density plasmas. The setup uses a compact pulsed Nd:YAG laser (532 nm) as the light source with suppression by two volume Bragg grating notch filters and dispersion with a single-stage spectrometer before measurement with an intensified camera. A key issue is the detailed light collection and how it impacts the sensitivity and elastic light suppression, for which we have investigated two optical configurations, one based on a 7 × 1 linear fiber bundle and the other based on a slit spatial-filter. We find that the configuration with the slit spatial-filter provides a higher sensitivity by a factor of ∼2 along with more uniform spatial response. We have developed a custom pulsed-plasma setup with a modulation at 20 kHz, representative of the Hall thruster breathing mode oscillation, to show the possibility of temporally resolved measurements for electric propulsion applications. We have successfully recorded the variations in electron number density and temperature with sub-mm spatial resolution and capturing ten temporal points over the 50 µs modulation period. The detection limit of electron density (with the spatial-filter configuration) is ∼1.6 × 1017 m−3, which is ∼1/10 of the plasma density in the acceleration channel of Hall thrusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This analytical modeling study delves into the resonance behavior of plasma waves within the channel of High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs) when subjected to Terahertz (THz) excitation. The core objective is to systematically examine the influence of various HEMT parameters on the dynamics of plasma resonance and the detection of THz signals. A noteworthy finding emerges: the most effective detection of THz signals materializes when both the gate and drain terminals simultaneously receive the THz excitation. Moreover, the modulation of biasing conditions, specifically represented by polarization voltages, exerts a substantial influence on plasma resonance frequencies, offering a promising avenue for tailoring HEMT responses. Further exploration reveals the substantial impact of access region characteristics, including length and doping concentration, on the excitation of 3D plasma waves within the HEMT, with the drain access region demonstrating particular significance. Additionally, we delve into the ramifications of gate geometry, encompassing width and channel-to-gate distance, revealing their capacity to significantly alter 2D plasma resonance frequencies. In extreme cases, the HEMT exhibits behavior akin to a simplified diode configuration, resulting in the absence of 2D plasma resonance. In summation, this research unfolds essential insights for the design and optimization of HEMT-based devices tailored to specific THz frequency applications. It underscores the pivotal roles of biasing conditions, access region properties, and gate geometries in shaping HEMT performance and THz signal detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex heavy metal (HM)-containing wastewater discharges pose substantial risks to global water ecosystems and human health. Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) has attracted increased attention as an efficient and low-cost adsorbent in HM-containing wastewater treatment. Therefore, this study systematically evaluates the effect of Cu(II), Ni(II), and Cr(III) addition on the characteristics, performance and mechanism of AGS in complex HM-containing wastewater treatment process by means of fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma spectrocopcy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) fractions detection and scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive X-ray. The results showed that AGS efficiently eliminated Cu(II), Ni(II), and Cr(III) by the orchestrated mechanisms of ion exchange, three-layer EPS adsorption [soluble microbial products EPS (SMP-EPS), loosely bound EPS (LB-EPS), tightly bound EPS (TB-EPS)], and inner-sphere adsorption; notably, almost 100% of Ni(II) was removed. Threelayer EPS adsorption was the dominant mechanism through which the HM were removed, followed by ion exchange and inner-sphere adsorption. SMPEPS and TB-EPS were identified as the key EPS fractions for adsorbing Cr(III) and Cu(II), respectively, while Ni(II) was adsorbed evenly on SMP-EPS, TB-EPS, and LB-EPS. Moreover, the rates at which the complex HM penetrated into the granule interior and their affinity for EPS followed the order Cu(II) > Ni(II) > Cr(III). Ultimately, addition of complex HM stimulated microorganisms to excrete massive phosphodiesterases (PDEs), leading to a pronounced decrease in cyclic diguanylate (c-di-GMP) levels, which subsequently suppressed EPS secretion due to the direct linkage between c-di-GMP and EPS. This study unveils the adaptability and removal mechanism of AGS in the treatment of complex HM-containing wastewater, which is expected to provide novel insights for addressing the challenges posed by intricate real wastewater scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis of macrophage acts essential roles in the progression of sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Tangeretin (TAN), enriched in citrus fruit peel, presents anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Here, we aimed to explore the potentially protective effect of TAN on sepsis-induced ALI, and the underlying mechanism of TAN in regulating NLRP3 inflammasome. Material and methods: The effect of TAN on sepsis-induced ALI and NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis of macrophage were examined in vivo and in vitro using a LPS-treated mice model and LPS-induced murine macrophages, respectively. The mechanism of TAN regulating the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in sepsis-induced ALI was investigated with HE staining, Masson staining, immunofluorescent staining, ELISA, molecular docking, transmission electron microscope detection, qRT-PCR, and western blot. Results: TAN could evidently attenuate sepsis-induced ALI in mice, evidenced by reducing pulmonary edema, pulmonary congestion and lung interstitial fibrosis, and inhibiting macrophage infiltration in the lung tissue. Besides, TAN significantly suppressed inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and IL-18 expression in the serum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples of mice with LPS-induced ALI, and inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis of macrophages. Furthermore, we found TAN inhibited ROS production, preserved mitochondrial morphology, and alleviated excessive mitochondrial fission in LPS-induced ALI in mice. Through bioinformatic analysis and molecular docking, Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) was identified as a potential target of TAN for treating sepsis-induced ALI. Moreover, TAN significantly inhibited the reduction of PLK1 expression, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation, and Dynamin related protein 1 (Drp1) phosphorylation (S637) in LPS-induced ALI in mice. In addition, Volasertib, a specific inhibitor of PLK1, abolished the protective effects of TAN against NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis of macrophage and lung injury in the cell and mice septic models. Conclusion: TAN attenuates sepsis-induced ALI by inhibiting ROS-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation via regulating PLK1/AMPK/DRP1 signaling axis, and TAN is a potentially therapeutic candidate against ALI through inhibiting pyroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroelectric domain dynamics in Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.3PbTiO3 single crystals have been studied by in situ biasing high-voltage transmission electron microscopy with a direct electron detection camera. We have achieved time-resolved recording of polarization switching in real space on a 2.5 ms time scale. The reversible response of micrometer-scale domains was observed by applying an electric field of 1 kV/mm. Detailed analyses on smaller sized domains 100–500 nm in size revealed that the domain switching initiated at a corner of a rectangular domain and propagated inward rapidly. The switching proceeded within 60 ms and the maximum switching rate, as fast as 6–8 μm/s, was observed. The domain switching kinetics was classified as two-dimensional nucleation and growth mode based on the Kolmogolov–Avrami–Ishibashi model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New possibilities for the mode of detecting backscattered electrons in a scanning electron microscope (SEM) are presented. The technique for determining the chemical composition of the probed area of the sample using the precalibrated scale of the SEM's gray screen has been further developed. Simple relationships are presented for practical application in finding the thicknesses of thin films on a massive substrate. The parameters of the double layer of the film nanostructure on the substrate are determined, that is, depth and thickness of subsurface fragments of the microobject. A technique is proposed for measuring the surface potential of negatively charged dielectric samples upon irradiation with medium-energy electrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NUSES is a planned space mission aiming to test new observational and technological approaches related to the study of relatively low-energy cosmic rays, gamma rays, and high-energy astrophysical neutrinos. Two scientific payloads will be hosted onboard the NUSES space mission: Terzina and Zirè. Terzina will be an optical telescope readout by SiPM arrays, for the detection and study of Cerenkov light emitted by Extensive Air Showers generated by high-energy cosmic rays and neutrinos in the atmosphere. Zirè will focus on the detection of protons and electrons up to a few hundred MeV and to 0.1–10 MeV photons and will include the Low Energy Module (LEM). The LEM will be a particle spectrometer devoted to the observation of fluxes of relatively low-energy electrons in the 0.1–7-MeV range and protons in the 3–50 MeV range along the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) followed by the hosting platform. The detection of Particle Bursts (PBs) in this Physics channel of interest could give new insight into the understanding of complex phenomena such as eventual correlations between seismic events or volcanic activity with the collective motion of particles in the plasma populating van Allen belts. With its compact sizes and limited acceptance, the LEM will allow the exploration of hostile environments such as the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) and the inner Van Allen Belt, in which the anticipated electron fluxes are on the order of 10 6 to 10 7 electrons per square centimeter per steradian per second. Concerning the vast literature of space-based particle spectrometers, the innovative aspect of the LEM resides in its compactness, within 10 × 10 × 10 cm3, and in its "active collimation" approach dealing with the problem of multiple scattering at these very relatively low energies. In this work, the geometry of the detector, its detection concept, its operation modes, and the hardware adopted will be presented. Some preliminary results from the Monte Carlo simulation (Geant4) will be shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to spatially control and modify material properties on the nanoscale, including within nanoscale objects themselves, is a fundamental requirement for the development of advanced nanotechnologies. The development of a platform for nanoscale advanced materials engineering (P-NAME) designed to meet this demand is demonstrated. P-NAME delivers a high-resolution focused ion beam system with a coincident scanning electron microscope and secondary electron detection of single-ion implantation events. The isotopic mass-resolution capability of the P-NAME system for a wide range of ion species is demonstrated, offering access to the implantation of isotopes that are vital for nanomaterials engineering and nanofunctionalization. The performance of the isotopic mass selection is independently validated using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) for a number of species implanted into intrinsic silicon. The SIMS results are shown to be in good agreement with dynamic ion implantation simulations, demonstrating the validity of this simulation approach. The wider performance capabilities of P-NAME, including sub-10 nm ion beam imaging resolution and the ability to perform direct-write ion beam doping and nanoscale ion lithography, are also demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benzylation of three low molecular weight N,N‐disubstituted ethanolamines related to chemical warfare agents (CWAs) to furnish derivatives with improved gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) profiles is described. Due to their low molecular weight and polar nature, N,N‐disubstituted ethanolamines are notoriously difficult to detect by routine GC‐MS analyses during Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) proficiency tests (PTs), particularly in scenarios when they are present at low levels (~1–10 ppm) amidst more abundant interferences. Our studies revealed that the optimal derivatization conditions involved the treatment of the ethanolamine with benzyl bromide in the presence of an inorganic base (e.g., Na2CO3) in dichloromethane at 55°C for 2 h. This optimized set of conditions was then successfully applied to the derivatization of N,N‐dimethylethanolamine, N,N‐diethylethanolamine and N,N‐diisopropylethanolamine present separately at 1 and 10 μg/mL concentrations in a glycerol‐rich matrix sample featured in the 48th OPCW PT. The benzylated derivatives of the three ethanolamines possessed retention times long enough to clear the massive glycerol‐containing matrix interferences. The protocol herein is introduced as an alternative method for derivatization of these CWA and pharmaceutically important species and should find broad applicability in laboratories where routine forensic analysis is carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using constitutive GRF1/2 knockout mice, we showed previously that GRF2 is a key regulator of nuclear migration in retinal cone photoreceptors. To evaluate the functional relevance of that cellular process for two putative targets of the GEF activity of GRF2 (RAC1 and CDC42), here we compared the structural and functional retinal phenotypes resulting from conditional targeting of RAC1 or CDC42 in the cone photoreceptors of constitutive GRF2KO and GRF2WT mice. We observed that single RAC1 disruption did not cause any obvious morphological or physiological changes in the retinas of GRF2WT mice, and did not modify either the phenotypic alterations previously described in the retinal photoreceptor layer of GRF2KO mice. In contrast, the single ablation of CDC42 in the cone photoreceptors of GRF2WT mice resulted in clear alterations of nuclear movement that, unlike those of the GRF2KO retinas, were not accompanied by electrophysiological defects or slow, progressive cone cell degeneration. On the other hand, the concomitant disruption of GRF2 and CDC42 in the cone photoreceptors resulted, somewhat surprisingly, in a normalized pattern of nuclear positioning/movement, similar to that physiologically observed in GRF2WT mice, along with worsened patterns of electrophysiological responses and faster rates of cell death/disappearance than those previously recorded in single GRF2KO cone cells. Interestingly, the increased rates of cone cell apoptosis/death observed in single GRF2KO and double-knockout GRF2KO/CDC42KO retinas correlated with the electron microscopic detection of significant ultrastructural alterations (flattening) of their retinal ribbon synapses that were not otherwise observed at all in single-knockout CDC42KO retinas. Our observations identify GRF2 and CDC42 (but not RAC1) as key regulators of retinal processes controlling cone photoreceptor nuclear positioning and survival, and support the notion of GRF2 loss-of-function mutations as potential drivers of cone retinal dystrophies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the applications of voltage contrast (VC) measurements in scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) for characterizing and debugging modern integrated circuits (ICs). It explains how VC measurements can probe electrical activity in ICs operating at speeds as high as 2 GHz; discusses the generation of secondary electrons; the factors affecting VC; and its sensitivity, as well as provides examples of VC applications, such as waveform analysis and spectral analysis in ICs.

Though electron transfer (ET) and proton transfer (PT) are extensively involved in organic reactions, they remain unclear in acid‐enabled disproportionation of nitroxyl radicals, especially in organic solvents. Here we unveil the acid‐promoted electron transfer (APET) mechanism with inverse kinetic isotope effect (KIE) for the disproportionation of 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl (TEMPO) in CH3CN. Kinetic experiments relying on on‐line detection of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) was conducted together with theoretical calculations, giving consistent insights on the mechanisms. Moreover, the significant effect of water as cosolvent was revealed. The findings here will encourage further mechanistic understandings and method developments for nitroxyl‐participated organic reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta (ETFB) of Leptospira interrogans is a biomarker for diagnosing leptospiral infection. Thus, the ETFB-specific nuclease-resistant RNA aptamer ETFB3-63 was developed and used in an electrochemical aptasensor to assay ETFB. Although the majority of reported biosensors detect various genes and antibodies of L. interrogans, this is the first attempt to construct an electrochemical biosensor to detect ETFB protein for the diagnosis of leptospiral infection. The ETFB protein can be detected without any extraction phase. In this assay, a single-stranded DNA probe complementary to the ETFB3-63 sequence was immobilized on a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE). The aptamer was then incubated and hybridized with the antisense probe on the SPCE. In the presence of ETFB, the aptamer dissociates from the aptamer/probe complex on the SPCE to bind with the protein. Methylene blue was then added to intercalate with the remaining hybridized aptamers, and its signal was measured using differential pulse voltammetry. The signal arising from the intercalated methylene blue decreased with increasing concentration of ETFB, showing a linear response in the range of 50–500 nM of ETFB and 10 to 109 leptospira cells per mL, respectively. The aptasensor signal was also specific to L. interrogans but not to 12 related bacteria tested. In addition, the aptasensor showed similar performance in detecting ETFB spiked in human serum to that in buffer, indicating that proteins in the serum do not interfere with the assay. Therefore, this assay has great potential to develop into a point-of-care electrochemical device that is accurate, cost-effective, and user-friendly for leptospirosis diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the semiconductor industry, doping modification is a common and effective method to regulate the properties of materials. For Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) phase change materials, incorporation with nitrogen has been widely reported due to improvement in its thermal stability and reduction in its power consumption. However, whether in amorphous or crystalline structures, the distribution of N is still unclear since it is low in content and insensitive in the electron microscopy detection. Here, by employing advanced atom probe tomography technology, we directly reveal the three-dimensional element distribution in different N-doped GST (NGST) structures and systematically analyze the evolution of element distribution during phase change. Nitrogen is found to be homogenously distributed in the as-deposit amorphous NGST as nanoscale N-rich clusters most together with germanium. The N-rich clusters remains nearly the same during the phase transition from amorphous to rocksalt phase, but change in the cluster become increasingly significant as the heating temperature continues rising, where GeN begins to precipitate at the grain boundaries. Furthermore, it is found that precipitated GeN clusters are turning into more Ge-rich in the two step phase transitions of NGST, e.g., Ge/N ratio equals 1.2 in rocksalt structure and subsequently becomes 21 in the hexagonal phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study objective was to determine a possible association between maternal exposure to organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and anthropometric measures at birth in group of postpartum women in urban and rural areas of Armenia. The anthropometric measures of infants were obtained from birth records and gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane (γ-HCH), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane were measured in breast milk. Gas-liquid chromatography with electron capture detection was used to identify OCPs. Total OCPs and DDTs were calculated, and the anthropometrics were analyzed for sex and areas, and group differences were compared (Student's t-test). Both individual OCPs and total OCPs and DDTs were significantly higher in rural samples than in urban ones (P < 0.01–0.000), with lower and upper quartiles differing by 2.6-fold and 3.1-fold, respectively (P < 0.000). There was no association between the anthropometrics and OCPs levels in rural or urban areas. However, this does not rule out the possibility of OCPs impact on health later in life. To our knowledge, this was the first study addressing these issues in Armenia. The results obtained will provide data on the current situation regarding birth outcomes in terms of prenatal exposure to OCPs in Armenia and will contribute to the available results from previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic bottle Time-of-Flight (ToF) spectrometers can measure the energy spectra of all electrons emitted into a 2π sr solid angle simultaneously, greatly reducing data collection time. When the detection of the annihilation gamma (γ) and the detection of the electron (e) are used as timing signals for ToF spectrometers, the e-γ time difference spectra (e-γ TDS) are reflective of the positron-induced electron energy distributions provided the times between the impact of the positrons and the emission of the annihilation gammas are short compared to the flight times of the electrons. This is typically the case since positrons have short lifetime in solids (∼100–500 ps) compared to the flight times of the secondary electrons (102 ns to 103 ns). However, if the positron leaves the surface as a positronium atom (a bound electron–positron state), the annihilation gamma photons can be appreciably delayed due to the longer ortho -positronium (o-Ps) lifetime. This can result in an e-γ TDS having an exponential tail with a decay constant related to the o-Ps lifetime. Here, we present an analysis of the e-γ TDS using a Monte Carlo model which estimates the spectral contributions resulting from o-Ps annihilations. By removing the contributions from the delayed gamma signal, the energy spectrum of Positron Impact-Induced Secondary electrons (PIISE) can be isolated. Furthermore, our analysis allows an estimation of the intensity of the exponential tail in the e-γ TDS providing a method to measure the fraction of positrons that form Ps at solid surfaces without relying on assumed 100 % Ps emitting surfaces for calibration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During development of a novel detection method for the UDP-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1)*28, the fluorescence intensity of a dye conjugated to cytosine (C) at the end of a DNA strand decreased upon hybridization with guanine (G). This phenomenon is referred to as photoinduced electron transfer (PeT). Using this phenomenon, we devised a method for the naked-eye detection of UGT1A1*28 (thymine-adenine (TA)-repeat polymorphism). Fluorescently labeled single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) oligonucleotides (probes) were designed and hybridized with complementary strand DNAs (target DNAs). Base pair formation at the blunt end between fluorescently labeled C (probe side) and G (target side), induced dramatic fluorescence quenching. Additionally, when the labeled-CG pair formed near the TA-repeat sequence, different TA-repeat numbers were discriminated. However, obtaining enough target DNA for this probe by typical polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was difficult. To enable the practical use of the probe, producing sufficient target DNA remains problematic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a newly developed capacitor dosimeter was evaluated using electron beams commonly utilized in radiotherapy. The capacitor dosimeter comprised a silicon photodiode, 0.47-μF capacitor, and dedicated terminal (dock). Before electron beam irradiation, the dosimeter was charged using the dock. The doses were measured without using a cable by reducing the charging voltages using the currents from the photodiode during irradiation. A commercially available parallel-plane-type ionization chamber and solid–water phantom were used for dose calibration with an electron energy of 6 MeV. In addition, the depth doses were measured using a solid–water phantom at electron energies of 6, 9, and 12 MeV. The doses were proportional to the discharging voltages, and the maximum dose difference in the calibrated doses measured using a two-point calibration was approximately 5% in the range of 0.25–1.98 Gy. The depth dependencies at energies of 6, 9, and 12 MeV corresponded to those measured using the ionization chamber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mean transverse energy (MTE) of electrons emitted from cathodes is a critical parameter that determines the brightness of electron beams for applications, such as x-ray free electron lasers, particle colliders, and ultrafast electron scattering experiments. Achieving a MTE close to the thermal limit is a key step toward realizing the full potential of electron sources in these applications. Cesium antimonide (Cs3Sb) is a technologically important material with a long history of use in photon detection and electron sources. The smallest MTE of electrons photoemitted from Cs3Sb has always been appreciably greater than the thermal limit and was attributed to surface non-uniformities. In this work, we present comprehensive measurements of the photoemission electron energy spectra (PEES), quantum efficiency, and MTE from Cs3Sb in a wide photoexcitation energy range from 1.5 to 2.3 eV. Our PEES measurements demonstrate a notably low photoemission threshold of around 1.5 eV, which is in contrast with the previously perceived threshold of 1.8–2.0 eV. Moreover, we show that the MTE at this threshold of 1.5 eV nearly converges to the thermal limit at 300 K. At 1.8 eV, the MTE measured is 40 meV, which is comparable to the previously reported value. We conclude that this MTE value at 1.8 eV photon energy is not due to surface roughness effects as previously believed, but is a direct consequence of the excess energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The term wasting is a clinical name describing a physical condition characterized by growth retardation, usually of multifactorial origin. The present study describes an apparently new condition of pigs characterized clinically by wasting and pathologically by vacuolization of the brain. During 2016–2018, animals from eight farms were weaned in good body condition, and after 1–2 weeks, they started losing weight. To investigate potential causes of this condition, apparently sick and healthy pigs from each herd of eight affected farms were studied by means of histopathology, transmission electron microscopy and detection of usual infectious agents. Histopathologically, the most consistent lesion was neuropil vacuolization of the prosencephalon, mainly located in the thalamic nuclei and in the transition between the white and grey matter of the neocortex. Electron microscopy of some of these sick animals showed preserved axons, with dilated myelin sheaths (interpreted as edema of myelin sheath). The literature suggests this lesion type is linked to congenital or metabolic (toxic/deficiency) scenarios. The present case was probably a vitamin/mineral deficiency since supplementation with nutritional complexes solved the problem. The term wasting refers to a clinical sign used to describe a physical condition characterized by growth retardation, usually of multifactorial origin. The objective of the present study was to describe for the first time a pathological process characterized by forebrain neuropil vacuolization in pigs showing wasting without conspicuous neurological signs. To characterize the lesions pathologically, affected and non-affected pigs from eight of these farms were investigated. Histologically, the most consistent lesion was neuropil vacuolization of the prosencephalon, mainly located in the thalamic nuclei and in the transition between the white and grey matter of the neocortex (40/56 in sick and 4/30 in healthy pigs). In the most severe cases, the vacuolation also involved the midbrain, cerebellar nuclei and, to a lesser extent, the medulla oblongata. Vacuolization of the forebrain was associated with pigs experiencing marked emaciation and growth retardation. Although the specific cause of the present case remained unknown, the preventive use of multivitamin and mineral complexes in drinking water ameliorated the condition, strongly suggesting a metabolic origin of the observed condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, perfluoroheptene 2‐ and 3‐C7F14 stereoisomer specific gas‐phase OH reaction rate coefficients, k, were measured at 296 K in ∼600 Torr (He bath gas) using a relative rate (RR) method. Gas‐chromatography (GC) with electron capture detection (ECD) was used for the separation and detection of the stereoisomers. Rate coefficients for (E)‐2‐C7F14, (Z)‐2‐C7F14, (E)‐3‐C7F14, and (Z)‐3‐C7F14 were measured to be (in units of 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1) (3.60 ± 0.51), (2.22 ± 0.21), (3.43 ± 0.47), and (1.48 ± 0.19), respectively, where the uncertainties include estimated systematic errors. Rate coefficients for the (E)‐ stereoisomers were found to be systematically greater than the (Z)‐ stereoisomers by a factor of 1.6 and 2.3 for 2‐C7F14 and 3‐C7F14, respectively. Atmospheric lifetimes with respect to OH radical reaction for (E)‐2‐C7F14, (Z)‐2‐C7F14, (E)‐3‐C7F14, (Z)‐3‐C7F14 were estimated to be ∼33, ∼56, ∼36, and ∼86 days, respectively, for an average OH radical concentration of 1 × 106 molecule cm−3. Quantitative infrared absorption spectra were measured as part of this work. Complimentary theoretically calculated infrared absorption spectra using density functional theory (DFT) are included in this work. The theoretical spectra were used to evaluate stereoisomer climate metrics. Radiative efficiencies (adjusted) and global warming potentials (GWPs, 100‐year time‐horizon), were estimated to be 0.12, 0.19, 0.12, and 0.23 W m−2 ppb−1 and 1.9, 5.1, 2.1, 9.3 for (E)‐2‐C7F14, (Z)‐2‐C7F14, (E)‐3‐C7F14, (Z)‐3‐C7F14, respectively. Atmospheric degradation mechanisms are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A surfactant with biodegradability and amphiphilicity was prepared from cellulose nanocrystals by grafting fatty acids. The structure of the modified cellulose nanocrystals was investigated by infrared spectroscopy, XRD, particle size detection and scanning electron microscopy. The changes in surface tension of the modified cellulose nanocrystals under different salt ion concentrations and pH were tested, and the molecular model of the modified cellulose nanocrystals was constructed. The optimum reaction conditions for the grafting of different fatty acid groups were determined by the degree of substitution. Infrared characterization and X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the reactants were successfully esterified and chemically modified. The particle detection shows that the average particle size of the modified cellulose nanocrystals is slightly increased, but it is still at the nanometer level and still has large specific surface area. The surface tension of the surfactant in the aqueous phase will decrease by changing the salt concentration and pH of the test environment, while the range is not large. Therefore, using trifluoroacetic anhydride as co-reactant, long-chain fatty acids can be grafted onto cellulose nanocrystals to form hydrophobic modified cellulose nanocrystals. The modified cellulose nanocrystals have little change in average particle size and have hydrophilic and lipophilic properties and are nonionic surfactants, which can be used as emulsifier for emulsion preparation. It is found that the modified cellulose nanocrystals have good salt resistance and acid and alkali resistance by testing the changes in surface tension under different environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, perfluoroheptene 2‐ and 3‐C7F14 stereoisomer specific gas‐phase OH reaction rate coefficients, k, were measured at 296 K in ∼600 Torr (He bath gas) using a relative rate (RR) method. Gas‐chromatography (GC) with electron capture detection (ECD) was used for the separation and detection of the stereoisomers. Rate coefficients for (E)‐2‐C7F14, (Z)‐2‐C7F14, (E)‐3‐C7F14, and (Z)‐3‐C7F14 were measured to be (in units of 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1) (3.60 ± 0.51), (2.22 ± 0.21), (3.43 ± 0.47), and (1.48 ± 0.19), respectively, where the uncertainties include estimated systematic errors. Rate coefficients for the (E)‐ stereoisomers were found to be systematically greater than the (Z)‐ stereoisomers by a factor of 1.6 and 2.3 for 2‐C7F14 and 3‐C7F14, respectively. Atmospheric lifetimes with respect to OH radical reaction for (E)‐2‐C7F14, (Z)‐2‐C7F14, (E)‐3‐C7F14, (Z)‐3‐C7F14 were estimated to be ∼33, ∼56, ∼36, and ∼86 days, respectively, for an average OH radical concentration of 1 × 106 molecule cm−3. Quantitative infrared absorption spectra were measured as part of this work. Complimentary theoretically calculated infrared absorption spectra using density functional theory (DFT) are included in this work. The theoretical spectra were used to evaluate stereoisomer climate metrics. Radiative efficiencies (adjusted) and global warming potentials (GWPs, 100‐year time‐horizon), were estimated to be 0.12, 0.19, 0.12, and 0.23 W m−2 ppb−1 and 1.9, 5.1, 2.1, 9.3 for (E)‐2‐C7F14, (Z)‐2‐C7F14, (E)‐3‐C7F14, (Z)‐3‐C7F14, respectively. Atmospheric degradation mechanisms are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pasteurella multocida is a pathogen that can infect humans and animals. A ghost is an empty bacterial body devoid of cytoplasm and nucleic acids that can be efficiently presented by antigen-presenting cells. To study a novel ghost vector vaccine with cross-immune protection, we used bacteriophage PhiX174 RF1 and Pasteurella multocida standard strain CVCC393 as templates to amplify the split genes E and OmpH to construct a bidirectional expression vector E'-OmpH-pET28a-ci857-E. This is proposed to prepare a ghost Escherichia coli (engineered bacteria) capable of attaching and producing Pasteurella multocida OmpH on the inner membrane of Escherichia coli (BL21). The aim is to assess the antibody levels and the effectiveness of immune protection by conducting a mouse immunoprotective test. The bidirectional expression vector E'-OmpH-pET28a-ci857-E was successfully constructed. After induction by IPTG, identification by SDS-PAGE, western blot, ghost culture and transmission electron microscope detection, it was proven that the Escherichia coli ghost anchored to Pasteurella multocida OmpH was successfully prepared. The immunoprotective test in mice showed that the antibody levels of Pasteurella multocida inactivated vaccine, OmpH, ghost (aluminum glue adjuvant) and ghost (Freund's adjuvant) on day 9 after immunization were significantly different from those of the PBS control group (P < 0.01). The immune protection rates were 100%, 80%, 75%, and 65%, respectively, and the PBS negative control was 0%, which proved that they all had specific immune protection effects. Therefore, this study lays the foundation for the further study of ghosts as carriers of novel vaccine-presenting proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of numerical investigation of kinetics of fast electrons and parameters of negative-glow plasma in low-pressure glow discharge in helium are presented. It is demonstrated that electron temperature in the negative-glow region is low and equals to a few tenths of an electronvolt. Numerical simulation revealed the formation of narrow peaks in the electron distribution function and the dependence of the differential flux on energy that are related to fast electrons formed in the reactions of Penning ionization. The results of numerical simulation are corroborated by the results of probe diagnostics of plasma. The possibility of determining concentration of excited helium atoms in negative-glow plasma by detection of fast electrons created as a result of reactions of Penning ionization is demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this theoretical study, we show how photoelectron signals generated by time-energy entangled photon pairs can monitor ultrafast excited state dynamics of molecules with high joint spectral and temporal resolutions, not limited by the Fourier uncertainty of classical light. This technique scales linearly, rather than quadratically, with the pump intensity, allowing the study of fragile biological samples with low photon fluxes. Since the spectral resolution is achieved by electron detection and the temporal resolution by a variable phase delay, this technique does not require scanning the pump frequency and the entanglement times, which significantly simplifies the experimental setup, making it feasible with current instrumentation. Application is made to the photodissociation dynamics of pyrrole calculated by exact nonadiabatic wave packet simulations in a reduced two nuclear coordinate space. This study demonstrates the unique advantages of ultrafast quantum light spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spin readout of an ensemble of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond can be realized by a photoconductive detection that is a complementary method to the optical detection of the NV electron spin magnetic resonance. Here, we implement the photoconductive detection through graphitic planar electrodes that collect the photocurrent. Graphitic electrodes are patterned using a xenon focused-ion beam on an optical-grade quality diamond crystal containing a nitrogen concentration of ∼1 ppm and a NV concentration of a few parts per billion. Resistance and current–voltage characteristics of the NV-doped diamond junction are investigated tuning the 532 nm pump beam intensity. The junction has an ohmic behavior and, under a strong bias field, we observe velocity saturation of the optically induced carriers in the diamond junction. We perform the photoconductive detection in the continuous-wave regime of the magnetic resonance of the NV centers ensemble for a magnetic field applied along the ⟨100⟩ and the ⟨111⟩ directions with a magnitude above 100 mT. This technique enables the realization of all-carbon diamond quantum sensors integrating graphitic microstructures for the electrical readout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spin properties of transition metal dichalcogenides are of interest for applications in spintronics. Anisotropic electron paramagnetic resonance spectra in a WS2 single crystal under optical excitation have been detected. These spectra assumingly belong to localized carriers near the valence band and reflect features of the 5d shell of the crystal. It has been shown that the g-factor for the magnetic field perpendicular to the c‑axis of the crystal (in-plane magnetic field) is larger than that for the magnetic field parallel to the c‑axis (perpendicular to the layer plane), which can provide information on the type of the 5d function. The discussed center is most likely described by the wavefunction, which can be associated with the valence band of the crystal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim: To reveal new peculiarities of gut microbiota metabolites in CAD patients with or without AF and to detect special connections toward ones with clinical and laboratory features of investigated groups. Materials and methods: 300 patients were investigated. They were divided into 3 groups: control group - 28 patients without CAD and arrhythmias; main group - 149 patients with CAD but without arrhythmias; comparable group - 123 patients with CAD and AF paroxysm. Plasma TMAO, TMA, fecal SCFA levels was determined by gas chromatography with mass electron detection. Results: Metabolomic analysis of the gut microbiota metabolites (plasma TMA, TMAO, fecal SCFA) and clinic-laboratory factors in patients with CAD and AF paroxysm was done in our study. We checked gut microbiota metabolites changes that are common for patients with CAD and AF comparable with CAD patients: increasing of TMA, TMAO plasma levels, fecal valeric acid level (13,88%, 36,52% and 1128,43% respectively, p<0,05) and decreasing total amount of fecal SCFA, USFA, MCFA, butyric, isovaleric, caprylic acids levels (17,09%, 38,16%, 95,54%, 78,75%, 56,29% and 99,21% respectively, p<0,05). Reliable correlations between CAD and AF with TMA, TMAO plasma and fecal SCFA levels were revealed by them and age, BMI, GFR, total cholesterol, TG, LDL, HDL, ApoB levels (|r|>0,3, p<0,05) were revealed that are known risk factors of CAD and AF. Moreover, TMAO, TMA, butyrate, total SCFA, USFA, MCFA levels are closely connected with IL-6 and CRP levels (|r|>0,3, p<0,05). Conclusions: Gut microbiota metabolites (TMA, TMAO, SCFA, MCFA, USFA, butyric acid) are the new promising therapeutic targets for pathogenetic treatment and prevention AF paroxysm in CAD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The choice of the ideal material employed in selector devices is a tough task both from the theoretical and experimental side, especially due to the lack of a synergistic approach between techniques able to correlate specific material properties with device characteristics. Using a material‐to‐device multiscale technique, a reliable protocol for an efficient characterization of the active traps in amorphous GeSe chalcogenide is proposed. The resulting trap maps trace back the specific features of materials responsible for the measured findings, and connect them to an atomistic description of the sample. The metrological approach can be straightforwardly extended to other materials and devices, which is very beneficial for an efficient material‐device codesign and the optimization of novel technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]