Browse Articles

More than 40% of postdocs leave academia, study reveals

Highly sensitive persons feel more emotionally lonely than the general population

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), emotional and social loneliness and social isolation. Data were collected from September 2022 to May 2023 on a sample of 3247 participants aged 18 to 80 (mean age = 31.9 years ± 13.2; 66.2% female). We measured SPS using the Sensory Processing Sensitivity Questionnaire (SPSQ), loneliness using the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale (DJGLS), and social isolation, Neuroticism and Extraversion with the Big Five Inventory. Data analysis was performed using linear regression, binary logistic regression, the t-test, the Chi-square test and ANOVA. In our study, lower SPS was observed especially among men, pensioners and graduates of secondary vocational schools. SPS was associated with emotional loneliness (t = 4.276; b = 0.074; adjusted R2 = 0.181; p  < 0.001), but no significant relationship was found between SPS and social loneliness. SPS is associated with higher emotional but not social loneliness or social isolation. Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs) appear to have a higher need for intimacy and understanding in close relationships, which is essential to know for them, their friends, families and therapists.

Defect state enhanced nonlinear absorption and optical limiting behaviour of erbium doped silver molybdate nanostructures

Optical and electronic properties of (InxGa1−x)2O3 alloys

Indium gallium oxide [(InxGa1−x)2O3] alloys are of interest for a variety opto-electronic applications including photovoltaic devices owing to the ability to control properties through alloy composition. A thorough evaluation of the opto-electronic properties of (InxGa1−x)2O3 (x = 0.71, 0.55, 0.45, 0.36, and 0.28) thin films is obtained by using terahertz to ultraviolet range spectroscopic ellipsometry to measure the complex dielectric function (ɛ = ɛ1 + iɛ2) spectra from 0.400 meV to 5.877 eV and the derived vibrational modes from chemical bonding, inter-band transition energies, and carrier transport properties. Optical band edges of direct and non-direct transitions increase from 3.82 to 4.14 eV and 2.96 to 3.36 eV, respectively, with decreasing In-content, whereas the carrier concentration determined from the direct electrical Hall effect and spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements decreases from ∼1020 to 1018 cm−3. Mobilities (μSE), resistivities (ρSE), and carrier effective masses (m*SE) from the spectroscopic ellipsometry range from ∼10.6 to ∼66.8 cm2 V−1 s−1, 2.3 × 10−3, to 47.1 × 10−3 Ω cm, and 0.308 to 0.397 me, respectively. μSE and ρSE are compared to those obtained from the direct electrical Hall effect and four-point probe measurements with discrepancies attributed to principles of measurement techniques. Spectroscopic ellipsometry determined parameters are representative of properties within localized regions, whereas direct electrical measurements are influenced by a greater degree of charge carrier scattering due to longer path lengths of travel.

Evaluation of the core muscles of children and adolescents with nocturnal enuresis using shear wave elastography: a preliminary study

Interface enhancement effect: SnO2/CsPbBr3 hetero-junction for improve nuclear radiation detection performance and stability

The CsPbBr3 single crystal detector emerges as a highly promising candidate among semiconductor nuclear radiation detectors, which exhibits an extensive potential application across a multitude of critical domains, particularly in nuclear physics, nuclear energy, nuclear medicine, etc. However, the polarization problem has limited the application and development of CsPbBr3 detectors and has even posed a significant hindrance to their practical implementation. In this paper, a pre-designed SnO2/CsPbBr3 hetero-junction was meticulously engineered at the interface of the Ti/CsPbBr3/Ti detector, aiming to solve the polarization problem. This paper investigates the effects of the SnO2/CsPbBr3 hetero-junction on the electrical characteristics, detection performance, and long-term stability of the detector. The final results demonstrated that the SnO2/CsPbBr3 hetero-junction had multiple beneficial effects on the CsPbBr3 detector. On the one hand, the SnO2/CsPbBr3 hetero-junction exhibited superior electron extraction efficiency when compared to the Ti/CsPbBr3 interface. On the other hand, the SnO2 layer played a crucial role in preventing the migration of ions from the CsPbBr3 crystal to the interface, as well as in blocking the permeation of atmospheric and moisture elements from the detector surface to the interface. Consequently, the SnO2/CsPbBr3 hetero-junction detector exhibited superior detection performance and enhanced long-stability when compared to the Ti/CsPbBr3/Ti detector. After the interface enhancement, the SnO2/CsPbBr3 hetero-junction detector achieved an improved energy resolution of 13.59% at an electric field of 6000 V/cm and maintained a stable energy resolution of approximately 24 ± 5% at 3000 V/cm for over 12 h. The study of the SnO2/CsPbBr3 hetero-junction detector in this work provided a new perspective for enhancing the detection performance and ensuring the long-term stability of CsPbBr3-based detectors.

Development of a CFD simulation for the analysis of CO2 separation percentage using novel [emim][C2N3] ionic liquid solution inside the gas–liquid contactor

Invariant discovery of features across multiple length scales: Applications in microscopy and autonomous materials characterization

Physical imaging is a foundational characterization method in areas from condensed matter physics and chemistry to astronomy and spans length scales from atomic to universe. Images encapsulate crucial data regarding atomic bonding, materials microstructures, and dynamic phenomena such as microstructural evolution and turbulence, among other phenomena. The challenge lies in effectively extracting and interpreting this information. Variational Autoencoders (VAEs) have emerged as powerful tools for identifying the underlying factors of variation in image data, providing a systematic approach to distilling meaningful patterns from complex data sets. However, a significant hurdle in their application is the definition and selection of appropriate descriptors reflecting local structures. Here, we introduce the scale-invariant VAE approach (SI-VAE) based on the progressive training of the VAE with the descriptors sampled at different length scales. The SI-VAE allows the discovery of the length scale-dependent factors of variation in the system. Here, we illustrate this approach using the ferroelectric domain images and generalize it to the movies of the electron-beam induced phenomena in graphene and topography evolution across combinatorial libraries. This approach can further be used to initialize the decision making in automated experiments including structure–property discovery and can be applied across a broad range of imaging methods. This approach is universal and can be applied to any spatially resolved data including both experimental imaging studies and simulations, and can be particularly useful for exploration of phenomena such as turbulence and scale-invariant transformation fronts.

Intermittent documentation of blood pressure values does not provide comprehensive evaluation of the hemodynamic response during continuous intravenous medication administration

Thermal investigation of micro-polar tangent hyperbolic flow using a hybrid nanofluid approach

Hybrid nanofluids are recognized as advanced nanofluids due to their superior thermal properties and the potential advantages they offer in boosting the thermal efficiency of machines. Keeping the potential properties of hybrid nanofluids, this study aims to discuss the numerical solution for the the micro-rotating tangent hybrid nanofluid induced by a porous stretchable sheet. The physcial model is mathematically formulated. The mathematical formulation yields a set of non-linear partial differential equations. To derive a similarity solution, similarity variables are introduced. The numerical solution to the system of differential equations is achieved by engaging the Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg 45 (RKF-45) method, in conjunction with the shooting method. Graphical representations are employed to demonstrate the physical significance of relevant parameters. It is observed that a rise in both the permeability of the porous medium and the magnetic parameter lead to a significant decrease in the skin friction coefficient. Furthermore, as the Eckert number and heat source parameter reach substantial values, an increase in the heat transfer rate is foreseen. It is worth noting that by manipulating thermal relaxation and heat source parameters allows engineers to tailor systems for optimal performance, efficiency, and safety across various applications.

Clinical application of 3D slicer reconstruction and 3D printing localization combined with neuroendoscopy technology in VPS surgery

How I use data to highlight complex and overlooked work in health-care systems

Acoustic resonant hydrogen leak detection for hydrogen production by water electrolysis

A non-invasive hydrogen leak sensor based on acoustic resonant frequency measurement using the fast Fourier transform is developed. The sensitivity of the resonant frequency to hydrogen concentration variation of the acoustic resonator is utilized. The acoustic resonator has been optimized through finite element method analysis to meet the requirements of the measurement application. Under the premise of fully considering the frequency response, detection time, and related metrological characteristics, the excitation and detection circuit based on a STM32 microprocessor was designed. To reduce the influence of temperature on measurement results, a double resonator structure is adopted. The overall sensor design is made up of low-cost, simplicity, and commercially available components. The experimental results show that the sensitivity limit is 33.6 ppm and an upper dynamic range of 100%. The presence of hydrogen can be quickly detected within 5 s. It can fulfill the requirements for detecting high concentration hydrogen leakage and provide monitoring data for the safe operation of the hydrogen production system.

Perceived costs and benefits of companion dog keeping based on a convenience sample of dog owners

Abstract The increasing trend of dog ownership is often linked to its perceived benefits for human physical and mental well-being. However, the psychological and practical demands of caring for a dog can significantly impact the owner’s quality of life and the long-term success of the dog-owner relationship. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of both the advantages and disadvantages of dog ownership, as perceived by a convenience sample of Hungarian dog owners (N = 246), who were assumed to be generally satisfied with their dogs. The study employed both quantitative (a Cost/Benefit scale consisting of 33 neutrally-phrased statements rated on a seven-point scale, from − 3 to + 3) and qualitative methods (two open-ended questions). Quantitative results showed that owners rated the short lifespan of dogs as the most negative aspect, while the belief that dogs brighten their lives was rated most positively. On average, positive statements were rated significantly higher (2.06) than negative ones (−0.66), supporting the prediction from social exchange theory that dog owners in a voluntary sample tend to perceive more advantages than disadvantages in dog ownership. Qualitative findings revealed six ‘benefit’ and three ‘cost’ themes. 61% of owners considered the meaningful relationship with their dog as the greatest benefit, frequently mentioning the dog’s constant presence, love, and support. Additionally, 15% highlighted the relationship with another species and the dog’s intrinsic qualities, indicating the biophilia effect of dog ownership. Regarding the costs, 95% of respondents identified financial, particularly health-related expenses, as the most significant drawback, and only 4–5% mentioned emotional or practical burdens. In the quantitative data, principal component analysis revealed three core components of the dog ownership experience: (1) emotional, physical, and social benefits, (2) negative emotions and practical challenges, and (3) time and emotional commitment. Overall, the results suggest clear costs and benefits, though some aspects, such as daily care, holiday arrangements, and training, were seen as both beneficial and disadvantageous, depending on the owner. Even within a convenience sample, the diversity in dog and owner characteristics was sufficient to explain why certain facets of dog ownership are experienced differently.

How often do unexpected scientific discoveries occur? More often than you might think

Obtaining the equation of state for multiphase iron under Earth's core conditions using Bayesian statistics

Iron is the primary constituent element of Earth's core, and its equation of state plays a pivotal role in understanding the thermodynamic properties of the core. However, uncertainties in experimental data have significant effects on the parameters within the iron equation of state. Using Bayesian statistical analysis coupled with Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation methods, we quantified the uncertainties in the equation of state parameters. During the simulation process, we proposed a simple yet efficient computational method for determining the probability of phase boundary data. The equation of state we obtained accurately reproduces various experimental data, including phase boundary experiments, static pressure data under different conditions, shock wave data, and sound velocity data at different states. With 100 posterior parameter samples, we predict that the density deficit of Earth's outer core falls within a range of approximately 9.5%–10.7%.

Investigating the cooling effect of the inlet flow on the axial compressor performance in different operating conditions

Suppression of phase separation in AlGaInAs compositionally graded buffers for 1550 nm photovoltaic converters on GaAs

We investigate strategies to suppress phase separation and reduce threading dislocation density (TDD) in AlGaInAs compositionally graded buffers (CGBs) that span the lattice constant range from GaAs to InP. Combining the results from high resolution x-ray diffraction, cathodoluminescence, transmission electron microscopy, and photovoltaic device measurements, we correlate the choices of epitaxial growth conditions with the defect structure of the CGBs and subsequent device performance. Both the use of substrates with high misorientation off (100) toward the (111)A plane and Zn doping instead of Si doping are shown to suppress phase separation and reduce TDD. We demonstrate a 0.74 eV GaInAs device grown on a GaAs substrate offcut 19.5° toward (111)A using a Zn-doped AlGaInAs CGB with TDD = 3.5 ± 0.2 × 106 cm−2 that has a bandgap-open circuit voltage offset of only 0.434 V measured under the AM1.5G solar spectrum. We characterized this device under high-intensity irradiance from a 1570 nm laser and measured a 31.9% peak laser power conversion efficiency at 3.6 W/cm2 irradiance. These results provide a roadmap to the manufacture of laser- and thermal-power conversion devices with the performance and cost-effectiveness needed to drive adoption of these technologies at scale.

Experimental study of different oxides in B2O3–ZnO–BaO glass system for gamma-ray shielding

Abstract Glass system of 45B2O3–20ZnO–30BaO–5X, (where X represents CaO, MgO, Al2O3, TiO2, CuO and Fe2O3) in mole percentage was investigated for gamma ray radiation shielding experimentally. Six glass composites were fabricated and the density was measured experimentally and the BZBCa glass sample has the least density with a value of 3.932 g cm−3 and this is due to the presence of CaO in it, and the sample BZBFe has the highest density with a value of 4.031 g cm−3. Through comparing the linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) data (experimental and Phy-X) for the BZBX glass samples, the LAC values for glass samples obtained experimentally and using Phy-X are in a very close range. All the glass samples have the greatest LAC values at 0.0595 MeV, the lowest energy value. Sample BZBCu has a LAC value of 16.203 1/cm, which is also the highest LAC value among all the studied glasses, this is as a result of the high density of this glass and due to the high atomic number of Cu. The glasses’ transmission factor (TF) at 1 cm thickness against energy was determined. The TF values of all the glasses were almost zero. The TF values increased significantly for all the glasses when the energy was increased to 0.662 MeV, and for sample BZBCa its TF value increases 74.08%, which was the highest TF value increase. The half-value layer and other shielding parameters have been determined experimentally.

Optimizing the thermoelectric properties of transition metal doped Sb2Te3 mediated by carrier effective mass

Charge carrier and phonon dynamics tuning are promising approaches for transport property modulation. Improvement of thermoelectric (TE) parameters via atomic substitution and band engineering is prevalent. Besides, carrier effective mass (m*) is a crucial factor that has a noteworthy influence on TE properties. Transition metals (TMs), possessing outstanding valence electronic properties and distinctive electronic state distributions, have recently been used as potential candidates for enhancing TE performance. Here, we report the structural, electronic, and TE characteristics of p-type Sb2Te3 by TM (=Fe, Co, Ni) doping. Consequently, the synergistic amelioration of electrical and thermal transport properties is elucidated. Structural and phonon vibrational properties are characterized by synchrotron powder x-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopic (RS) measurements. Raman peak position and full-width at half-maximum provide insight into electron–phonon interactions and phonon anharmonicity. Anharmonic phonon–phonon interaction is illustrated via a four-phonon decay model. Furthermore, optothermal RS measurement is used to estimate the thermal conductivity κ of the samples. A reduction in the lattice thermal conductivity, κL, is observed after TM doping. Experimentally measured transport parameters, viz., S(T), ρ(T), and nH(T) are simulated via the Boltzmann transport equation (BTE), and reasonable quantitative agreement between the experimental and simulated data is obtained. The role of m* and valence band convergence, as estimated from BTE analysis, is highlighted. Weighted mobility and m* are found to be increased, significantly enhancing the power factor in the Co-doped sample. As compared to its pristine counterpart, around three times the improvement of the ZT value in Sb1.97Co0.03Te3 is reported.