BINA

Superconducting flux qubits are promising candidates for the physical realization of a scalable quantum processor. Indeed, these circuits may have both a small decoherence rate and a large anharmonicity. These properties enable the application of fast quantum gates with high fidelity and reduce scaling limitations due to frequency crowding. The major difficulty of flux qubits’ design consists of controlling precisely their transition energy—the so-called qubit gap—while keeping long and reproducible relaxation times. Solving this problem is challenging and requires extremely good control of e-beam lithography, oxidation parameters of the junctions, and sample surface. Here we present measurements of a large batch of flux qubits and demonstrate a high level of reproducibility and control of qubit gaps (), relaxation times (–), and pure echo dephasing times (–). These results open the way for …

Actin, a primary component of the cell cytoskeleton can have multiple isoforms, each of which can have specific properties uniquely suited for their purpose. These monomers are then bound together to form polymeric filaments utilizing adenosine triphosphate hydrolysis as a source of energy. Proteins, such as Arp2/3, VASP, formin, profilin, and cofilin, serve important roles in the polymerization process. These filaments can further be linked to form stress fibers by proteins called actin-binding proteins, such as a-actinin, myosin, fascin, filamin, zyxin, and epsin. These stress fibers are responsible for mechanotransduction, maintaining cell shape, cell motility, and intracellular cargo transport. Cancer metastasis, specifically epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is one of the key steps of the process, is accompanied by the formation of thick stress fibers through the Rho-associated protein kinase, MAPK/ERK …

Ocean warming threatens the stability and survival of marine ecosystems, exposing species to lethal and sub-lethal effects. This is true particularly at their warm distributional edge, and more so, in extreme and highly variable environments like the intertidal zone where they can be often exposed to temperatures close or beyond their thermal limits. When thermophilic non-indigenous species invade such extreme environments, they should have a physiological advantage over native species. However, this assumption was rarely investigated. To test this, we investigated the thermal environment and vulnerability of four intertidal gastropods, two native topshells and two limpets, one native, and one Indo-Pacific, in the rapidly-warming southeastern Levantine basin, the warmest part of the Mediterranean Sea. Species metabolic performance was tested under a wide water temperature range, 18–37 °C, by measuring …

Controlling nerve cells to form pre‐designed 3D neural networks that recapitulate the intricate neural interconnectivity in the brain is essential for developing neuronal interfaces and new regeneration approaches. Here, nerve cells within 3D biomaterials are dynamically localized using nano‐based magnetic manipulations. Nerve cells are transformed into magnetic units and their organizational layout is manipulated using external magnetic field gradients. Iron oxide nanoparticles are incorporated into both Pheochromocytoma cell‐line 12 (PC12) cells and primary mice cortical neurons and the magnetized cells are subjected to multiple magnetic fields using pre‐designed magnetic arrays. Their movement is controlled inside multi‐layered 3D collagen scaffolds, which simulate the innate properties of in‐vivo tissue structures. Via these magnetic manipulations, functional 3D microarchitectures of neural networks are …

Low-dimensional topological objects, such as knots and braids, have become prevalent in multiple areas of physics, such as fluid dynamics, optics, and quantum information processing. Such objects also now play a role in cryptography, where a framed knot can store encoded information using its braid representation for communications purposes. The greater resilience of low-dimensional topological elements under deformations allows them to be employed as a reliable framework for information exchange. Here, we introduce a challenge-response protocol as an application of this construction for authentication. We provide illustrative examples of both procedures showing how framed links and braids may help to enhance secure communication.

Fluorescent nanocarbons are well-proficient nanomaterials because of their optical properties and surface engineering. Herein, Apium graveolens-derived carbon dots (ACDs) have been synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal process without using any surplus vigorous chemicals or ligands. ACDs were captured via an in situ gelation reaction to form a semi-interpenetrating polymer network system showing mechanical robustness, fluorescent behavior, and natural adhesivity. ACDs-reinforced hydrogels were tested against robust uniaxial stress, repeated mechanical stretching, thixotropy, low creep, and fast strain recovery, confirming their elastomeric sustainability. Moreover, the room-temperature self-healing behavior was observed for the ACDs-reinforced hydrogels, with a healing efficacy of more than 45%. Water imbibition through hydrogel surfaces was digitally monitored via “breathing” and “accelerated …

Animal food source production is increasing due to the growing world population. Many sources (e.g., hay) are prone to mold development, resulting in food degradation. This study proposes an environmentally friendly anti-mold fungicide comprising hydrogen peroxide (HP) and thymol entrapped in a polyvinyl alcohol/pyrrolidone (PVA/PVP) hydrogel (PVA is biodegradable and PVP is water soluble and non-toxic) coated on a polyethylene (PE) films for preservative hay packaging. The hydrogels improved the thermal stability of the entrapped HP and thymol, resulting in a prolonged release into the hay and thereby increasing anti-mold activity. The hydrogel composition and morphology, thymol and HP thermal stability, and release rates through indirect (gas phase) contact were investigated. Fungicidal capabilities were tested, indicating wide-range efficiency against mold growth on hay with a clear advantage for the thymol-loaded hydrogels. No visual side effects were observed on hay exposed to the released fumes of HP and/or thymol. These results demonstrate the potential of thymol-loaded hydrogels as effective and safe post-harvest preservatives.

Catalyst poisoning and leaching is a problem faced in almost all catalyst applications. A specific technology where catalyst poisoning and leaching are a major concern is the hydrogen bromine redox flow battery (H 2-B r 2 RFB), one of the most promising energy storage technologies. However, it is currently hindered through degradation of the hydrogen oxidation/evolution catalyst, caused by B r-/B r 3-which have crossed the membrane. To prevent this degradation, Pt nanoparticles were synthesized inside 2 nm single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques show that the Pt@ SWCNT has a vastly improved stability and higher mass activity over a commercial 50% Pt/C catalyst. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that the stability results from the selective diffusion of H 2 and H+ over the B r-and B r 3-species through the SWCNT to the Pt catalyst, effectively …

We report on stabilization of Li-S cells with different types of composite sulfur cathodes using ethereal LiTFSI/LiNO3/DOL/DME electrolyte solutions containing a-priori 0.1M Li2S8. These electrolyte solutions enable an improved cycling behavior for Li-S cells compared to Li2S8-free electrolyte solutions, thanks to the presence of LiSx species from the beginning of operation. We show that Li anodes cycled in Li|S cells with solutions containing Li2S8 possess flatter and more uniform surface, higher dimensions of the surface structures in average and, as a result, a lower surface area. This surface morphology ensures a low rate of parasitic surface reactions of the electrolyte components on the Li anodes’ surface, slower depletion of the electrolyte solution in the cells and stabilization of the cells cycling. Besides, the presence of Li2S8 maintains a better integrity of composite sulfur/carbon/PVdF cathodes, ensuring a …

Electronic correlations give rise to fascinating macroscopic phenomena such as superconductivity, magnetism, and topological phases of matter. Although these phenomena manifest themselves macroscopically, fully understanding the underlying microscopic mechanisms often requires probing on multiple length scales. Spatial modulations on the mesoscopic scale are especially challenging to probe, owing to the limited range of suitable experimental techniques. Here, we review recent progress in scanning superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) microscopy. We demonstrate how scanning SQUID combines unmatched magnetic field sensitivity and highly versatile designs, by surveying discoveries in unconventional superconductivity, exotic magnetism, topological states, and more. Finally, we discuss how SQUID microscopy can be further developed to answer the increasing demand for imaging …

Actin, a primary component of the cell cytoskeleton can have multiple isoforms, each of which can have specific properties uniquely suited for their purpose. These monomers are then bound together to form polymeric filaments utilizing adenosine triphosphate hydrolysis as a source of energy. Proteins, such as Arp2/3, VASP, formin, profilin, and cofilin, serve important roles in the polymerization process. These filaments can further be linked to form stress fibers by proteins called actin-binding proteins, such as α-actinin, myosin, fascin, filamin, zyxin, and epsin. These stress fibers are responsible for mechanotransduction, maintaining cell shape, cell motility, and intracellular cargo transport. Cancer metastasis, specifically epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is one of the key steps of the process, is accompanied by the formation of thick stress fibers through the Rho-associated protein kinase, MAPK/ERK …

Using bilayer films of β-Ta (5 nm)/Ni 0.8 Fe 0.2 (2 nm), we fabricate elliptical structures which exhibit uniaxial magnetic anisotropy, resulting in single magnetic domain behavior. We study induced spin-orbit torques (SOTs) in these devices with first-and second-order harmonic Hall measurements for current flowing along the long axis of the ellipses and external magnetic field applied in the film plane. We observe a giant response to the SOTs associated with magnetization reversal of the NiFe layer, and we correlate it quantitatively with a d φ m/d φ H term, where φ m and φ H are the in-plane angles of the magnetization and the magnetic field, respectively. We discuss theoretical and applicative implications of this intriguing behavior.

Binder-free carbon cloth (CC) cathodes with tunable porosity prepared from Kynol 1500 by CO2 activation at 900 °C with the specific surface area up to 3170 m2g-1 and pore volume up to 2.05 cc g−1 have been tested in Li–S battery prototypes with catholyte solutions containing Li2S8. The capacity of CCs normalized to carbon mass is linearly proportional to the surface area and pore volume values. Capacities of CC cathodes were compared to the capacity of a composite mesoporous carbon (MPC) cathode prepared from MPC powder with PVdF binder and tested in identical conditions as sulfur host. The results indicate that pore volume of the carbon hosts is a key factor which determines the capacity of Li–S cells with lithium polysulfide catholyte solution. The effect of the surface area and pore volume of carbon cathodes on capacity and cycling performance is discussed. The possibility of attaining of a practical …

Predicting the ability of nanoparticles (NP) to access the tumor is key to the success of chemotherapy using nanotherapeutics. In the present study, the ability of the dual NP-based theranostic system to accumulate in the tumor was evaluated in vivo using intravital microscopy (IVM) and MRI. The system consisted of model therapeutic doxorubicin-loaded poly(lactide-co-glycolide) NP (Dox-PLGA NP) and novel hybrid Ce3/4+-doped maghemite NP encapsulated within the HSA matrix (hMNP) as a supermagnetic MRI contrasting agent. Both NP types had similar sizes of ~100 nm and negative surface potentials. The level of the hMNP and PLGA NP co-distribution in the same regions of interest (ROI, ~2500 µm2) was assessed by IVM in mice bearing the 4T1-mScarlet murine mammary carcinoma at different intervals between the NP injections. In all cases, both NP types penetrated into the same tumoral/peritumoral regions by neutrophil-assisted extravasation through vascular micro- and macroleakages. The maximum tumor contrasting in MRI scans was obtained 5 h after hMNP injection/1 h after PLGA NP injection; the co-distribution level at this time reached 78%. Together with high contrasting properties of the hMNP, these data indicate that the hMNP and PLGA NPs are suitable theranostic companions. Thus, analysis of the co-distribution level appears to be a useful tool for evaluation of the dual nanoparticle theranostics, whereas assessment of the leakage areas helps to reveal the tumors potentially responsive to nanotherapeutics.

Extensive efforts are currently underway to develop safe and cost-effective electrolytes for large-scale energy storage. In this regard, water-based electrolytes may be an attractive option, but their narrow electrochemical stability window hinders their realization. Although highly concentrated fluorinated electrolytes have been shown to be highly effective in suppression of water splitting, enabling significant widening of the applied potential range, they utilize expensive salts (e.g., lithium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl) imide [LiTFSI] or lithium trifluoromethane sulfonate [LiOTf]); hence, they cannot be considered for practical applications. Here, we demonstrate a cost-effective aqueous electrolyte solution combining 14 M LiCl and 4 M CsCl that allows stable operation of a 2.15-V battery comprising a TiO2 anode and LiMn2O4 cathode. Addition of CsCl to the electrolyte plays a double role in system stabilization: the added …

In this work, we introduced a garnet-type lithium metal fluoride, Li3Na3M2F12 (M = Al, Sc, In), as solid-state lithium-ion conductors for the first time. The mechanically milled Li3Na3M2F12 compounds crystallized in a cubic garnet-like structure (Ia3̅d, No. 230). The ionic conductivities of Li3Na3Al2F12, Li3Na3Sc2F12, and Li3Na3In2F12 are 1.7 × 10–6, 8.2 × 10–6, and 2.4 × 10–6 S/cm at 300 °C and 1.2 × 10–10, 2.6 × 10–9, and 1.8 × 10–10 S/cm at 100 °C, respectively. Even though these fluoride garnets’ conductivity is less, it is still better than those of the oxide analogues Li3Ln3Te2O12 (Ln = Er, Gd, Tb, Nd). Moreover, we explored why garnet-type Li3Na3M2F12 has low ionic conductivity and presented strategies for further improving conductivities.

In article number 2204925, Orit Shefi and co-workers depict that neurons are transformed into magnetic units and dynamically localized within 3D biomaterials using magnetic manipulations. Iron-oxide nanoparticles are synthesized and incorporated into neurons, which are then subjected to various magnetic fields. The neurons' movement is controlled inside multi-layered 3D collagen scaffolds simulating in-vivo tissue structures, thus constructing pre-designed, viable and functional 3D microarchitectures of neural networks.

In article number 2204925, Orit Shefi and co-workers depict that neurons are transformed into magnetic units and dynamically localized within 3D biomaterials using magnetic manipulations. Iron-oxide nanoparticles are synthesized and incorporated into neurons, which are then subjected to various magnetic fields. The neurons' movement is controlled inside multi-layered 3D collagen scaffolds simulating in-vivo tissue structures, thus constructing pre-designed, viable and functional 3D microarchitectures of neural networks.

An innovative method based on the capability to measure temporal changes of gas flow such as Rn-222 and CO2 in deep boreholes, led to the clear discovery that both gases are affected by underground activity and could be associated with the regional geodynamic pre-seismic evolution along the Dead Sea Fault Zone (DSFZ) in northern Israel. Long-term monitoring of natural gases in deep boreholes along seismogenic active fault zones, based on passive measuring systems (avoiding pumping and gas circulation that disturb the local equilibrium) enables to eliminate from the acquired time series, the climatic-induced periodic contributions caused by temperature and barometric pressure, and to expose the remaining portion of the signals that may be associated with the underground tectonic preseismic activity. It was highlighted that the radon present in country rock formations as measured by gamma radiation …

Color induction in nitrogen-contaminated diamonds was carried out via various procedures that involve irradiation, thermal treatments (annealing), and more. These treatments affect vacancy defect production and atom orientation centers in the diamond lattice. Natural diamonds underwent color enhancement treatments in order to produce green, blue, and yellow fancy diamonds. The aim of this study was to follow the changes occurring during the treatment, mainly by EPR spectroscopy, which is the main source for the determination of the effect of paramagnetic centers (carbon-centered radicals) on the color centers produced via the treatments, but also via visual assessment, fluorescence, UV-vis, and FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicate that diamonds containing high levels of nitrogen contamination are associated with high carbon-centered radical concentrations. Four paramagnetic center structures (N1, N4, and P2/W21) were generated by the treatment. It is suggested that the N4 structure correlates with the formation of blue color centers, whereas yellow color centers are attributed to the presence of N1 species. While to produce blue and yellow colors, a thermal treatment is needed after irradiation, for treated green diamonds, no thermal treatment is needed (only irradiation).