A framework for mapping and monitoring human-ocean interactions in near real-time during COVID-19 and beyond

The human response to the COVID-19 pandemic set in motion an unprecedented shift in human activity with unknown long-term effects. The impacts in marine systems are expected to be highly dynamic at local and global scales. However, in comparison to terrestrial ecosystems, we are not well-prepared to document these changes in marine and coastal environments. The problems are two-fold: 1) manual and siloed data collection and processing, and 2) reliance on marine professionals for observation and analysis. These problems are relevant beyond the pandemic and are a barrier to understanding rapidly evolving blue economies, the impacts of climate change, and the many other changes our modern-day oceans are undergoing. The "Our Ocean in COVID-19″ project, which aims to track human-ocean interactions throughout the pandemic, uses the new eOceans platform (eOceans.app) to overcome these barriers. Working at local scales, a global network of ocean scientists and citizen scientists are collaborating to monitor the ocean in near real-time. The purpose of this paper is to bring this project to the attention of the marine conservation community, researchers, and the public wanting to track changes in their area. As our team continues to grow, this project will provide important baselines and temporal patterns for ocean conservation, policy, and innovation as society transitions towards a new normal. It may also provide a proof-of-concept for real-time, collaborative ocean monitoring that breaks down silos between academia, government, and at-sea stakeholders to create a stronger and more democratic blue economy with communities more resilient to ocean and global change.

Vapour-liquid-solid growth of ZnO-ZnMgO core-shell nanowires by gold-catalysed molecular beam epitaxy

Nanowire heterostructures, combining multiple phases within a single nanowire, modify functional properties and offer a platform for novel device development. Here, ZnO/ZnMgO core-shell nanowires are grown by molecular beam epitaxy. At growth temperatures above 750 °C, Mg diffuses into ZnO making heterostructure growth impossible; at lower shell-growth temperatures (500 °C), the core-shell structure is retained. Even very thin ZnMgO shells show increased intensity photoluminescence (PL) across the ZnO band-gap and a suppression in defect-related PL intensity, relative to plain ZnO nanowires. EDX measurements on shell thickness show a correlation between shell thickness and core diameter which is explained by a simple growth model.

Mapping the Origins of Luminescence in ZnO Nanowires by STEM-CL

In semiconductor nanowires, understanding both the sources of luminescence (excitonic recombination, defects, etc.) and the distribution of luminescent centers (be they uniformly distributed, or concentrated at structural defects or at the surface) is important for synthesis and applications. We develop scanning transmission electron microscopy-cathodoluminescence (STEM-CL) measurements, allowing the structure and cathodoluminescence (CL) of single ZnO nanowires to be mapped at high resolution. Using a CL pixel resolution of 10 nm, variations of the CL spectra within such nanowires in the direction perpendicular to the nanowire growth axis are identified for the first time. By comparing the local CL spectra with the bulk photoluminescence spectra, the CL spectral features are assigned to internal and surface defect structures. Hyperspectral CL maps are deconvolved to enable characteristic spectral features to be spatially correlated with structural features within single nanowires. We have used these maps to show that the spatial distribution of these defects correlates well with regions that show an increased rate of nonradiative transitions.

Reversible Redox Cycling of Well-Defined, Ultrasmall Cu/Cu2O Nanoparticles

Exceptionally small and well-defined copper (Cu) and cuprite (Cu₂O) nanoparticles (NPs) are synthesized by the reaction of mesitylcopper(I) with either H₂ or air, respectively. In the presence of substoichiometric quantities of ligands, namely, stearic or di(octyl)phosphinic acid (0.1-0.2 equiv vs Cu), ultrasmall nanoparticles are prepared with diameters as low as ∼2 nm, soluble in a range of solvents. The solutions of Cu NPs undergo quantitative oxidation, on exposure to air, to form Cu₂O NPs. The Cu₂O NPs can be reduced back to Cu(0) NPs using accessible temperatures and low pressures of hydrogen (135 °C, 3 bar H₂). This striking reversible redox cycling of the discrete, solubilized Cu/Cu(I) colloids was successfully repeated over 10 cycles, representing 19 separate reactions. The ligands influence the evolution of both composition and size of the nanoparticles, during synthesis and redox cycling, as explored in detail using vacuum-transfer aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and visible spectroscopy.

Colloidal Cu/ZnO catalysts for the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to methanol: investigating catalyst preparation and ligand effects

This paper reports on the influences of the catalyst preparation method and ligand effects for a series of highly active Cu/ZnO colloidal catalysts for the hydrogenation of CO₂ to methanol.

Correction: Colloidal Cu/ZnO catalysts for the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to methanol: investigating catalyst preparation and ligand effects

Correction for ‘Colloidal Cu/ZnO catalysts for the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to methanol: investigating catalyst preparation and ligand effects’ by Sebastian D. Pike et al., Catal. Sci. Technol., 2017, DOI: 10.1039/c7cy01191a.

Reductively PEGylated carbon nanomaterials and their use to nucleate 3D protein crystals: a comparison of dimensionality

A range of carbon nanomaterials, with varying dimensionality, were dispersed by a non-damaging and versatile chemical reduction route, and subsequently grafted by reaction with methoxy polyethylene glycol (mPEG) monobromides. The use of carbon nanomaterials with different geometries provides both a systematic comparison of surface modification chemistry and the opportunity to study factors affecting specific applications. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes, single-walled carbon nanotubes, graphite nanoplatelets, exfoliated few layer graphite and carbon black were functionalized with mPEG-Br, yielding grafting ratios relative to the nanocarbon framework between ca. 7 and 135 wt%; the products were characterised by Raman spectroscopy, TGA-MS, and electron microscopy. The functionalized materials were tested as nucleants by subjecting them to rigorous protein crystallization studies. Sparsely functionalized flat sheet geometries proved exceptionally effective at inducing crystallization of six proteins. This new class of nucleant, based on PEG grafted graphene-related materials, can be widely applied to promote the growth of 3D crystals suitable for X-ray crystallography. The association of the protein ferritin with functionalized exfoliated few layer graphite was directly visualized by transmission electron microscopy, illustrating the formation of ordered clusters of protein molecules critical to successful nucleation.

Imaging interfacial electrical transport in graphene-MoS2 heterostructures with electron-beam-induced-currents

Heterostructure devices with specific and extraordinary properties can be fabricated by stacking two-dimensional crystals. Cleanliness at the inter-crystal interfaces within a heterostructure is crucial for maximizing device performance. However, because these interfaces are buried, characterizing their impact on device function is challenging. Here, we show that electron-beam induced current (EBIC) mapping can be used to image interfacial contamination and to characterize the quality of buried heterostructure interfaces with nanometer-scale spatial resolution. We applied EBIC and photocurrent imaging to map photo-sensitive graphene-MoS₂ heterostructures. The EBIC maps, together with concurrently acquired scanning transmission electron microscopy images, reveal how a device's photocurrent collection efficiency is adversely affected by nanoscale debris invisible to optical-resolution photocurrent mapping.

Nanofilament Formation and Regeneration During Cu/Al₂O₃ Resistive Memory Switching

Conductive bridge random access memory (CBRAM) is a leading candidate to supersede flash memory, but poor understanding of its switching process impedes widespread implementation. The underlying physics and basic, unresolved issues such as the connecting filament's growth direction can be revealed with direct imaging, but the nanoscale target region is completely encased and thus difficult to access with real-time, high-resolution probes. In Pt/Al2O3/Cu CBRAM devices with a realistic topology, we find that the filament grows backward toward the source metal electrode. This observation, consistent over many cycles in different devices, corroborates the standard electrochemical metallization model of CBRAM operation. Time-resolved scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) reveals distinct nucleation-limited and potential-limited no-growth periods occurring before and after a connection is made, respectively. The subfemtoampere ionic currents visualized move some thousands of atoms during a switch and lag the nanoampere electronic currents.

Dark-field transmission electron microscopy and the Debye-Waller factor of graphene

Graphene's structure bears on both the material's electronic properties and fundamental questions about long range order in two-dimensional crystals. We present an analytic calculation of selected area electron diffraction from multi-layer graphene and compare it with data from samples prepared by chemical vapor deposition and mechanical exfoliation. A single layer scatters only 0.5% of the incident electrons, so this kinematical calculation can be considered reliable for five or fewer layers. Dark-field transmission electron micrographs of multi-layer graphene illustrate how knowledge of the diffraction peak intensities can be applied for rapid mapping of thickness, stacking, and grain boundaries. The diffraction peak intensities also depend on the mean-square displacement of atoms from their ideal lattice locations, which is parameterized by a Debye-Waller factor. We measure the Debye-Waller factor of a suspended monolayer of exfoliated graphene and find a result consistent with an estimate based on the Debye model. For laboratory-scale graphene samples, finite size effects are sufficient to stabilize the graphene lattice against melting, indicating that ripples in the third dimension are not necessary.

Dark-field transmission electron microscopy and the Debye-Waller factor of graphene

Graphene's structure bears on both the material's electronic properties and fundamental questions about long range order in two-dimensional crystals. We present an analytic calculation of selected area electron diffraction from multi-layer graphene and compare it with data from samples prepared by chemical vapor deposition and mechanical exfoliation. A single layer scatters only 0.5% of the incident electrons, so this kinematical calculation can be considered reliable for five or fewer layers. Dark-field transmission electron micrographs of multi-layer graphene illustrate how knowledge of the diffraction peak intensities can be applied for rapid mapping of thickness, stacking, and grain boundaries. The diffraction peak intensities also depend on the mean-square displacement of atoms from their ideal lattice locations, which is parameterized by a Debye-Waller factor. We measure the Debye-Waller factor of a suspended monolayer of exfoliated graphene and find a result consistent with an estimate based on the Debye model. For laboratory-scale graphene samples, finite size effects are sufficient to stabilize the graphene lattice against melting, indicating that ripples in the third dimension are not necessary.

In situ transmission electron microscopy of lead dendrites and lead ions in aqueous solution

An ideal technique for observing nanoscale assembly would provide atomic-resolution images of both the products and the reactants in real time. Using a transmission electron microscope we image in situ the electrochemical deposition of lead from an aqueous solution of lead(II) nitrate. Both the lead deposits and the local Pb(2+) concentration can be visualized. Depending on the rate of potential change and the potential history, lead deposits on the cathode in a structurally compact layer or in dendrites. In both cases the deposits can be removed and the process repeated. Asperities that persist through many plating and stripping cycles consistently nucleate larger dendrites. Quantitative digital image analysis reveals excellent correlation between changes in the Pb(2+) concentration, the rate of lead deposition, and the current passed by the electrochemical cell. Real-time electron microscopy of dendritic growth dynamics and the associated local ionic concentrations can provide new insight into the functional electrochemistry of batteries and related energy storage technologies.

Synergy between an IGF-1R antibody and Raf/MEK/ERK and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitors in suppressing IGF-1R-mediated growth in hematopoietic cells

The Insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) is overexpressed in a variety of tumors including breast, prostate and myeloma. Thus, IGF-1R and its downstream signaling effectors are good candidates for molecular-based targeted antitumor therapies. Indeed, protein inhibitors of IGF-1R signaling and IGF-1R blocking antibodies are undergoing clinical trials. Herein, the molecular basis for antibody-mediated IGF-1R signal inhibition has been investigated in a hematopoietic cell line model, FDC-P1, that has been rendered interleukin-3 independent in a ligand-dependent manner through retroviral-mediated expression of IGF-1R (FD/IGF-1R). Furthermore, the ability of an anti-IGF-1R antibody to synergize with signal-transduction pathway inhibitors and induce apoptosis was determined. The alphaIGF-1R antibody, A12, was capable of arresting IGF-1 or insulin-induced FD/IGF-1R cell proliferation in the G1 phase of the cell cycle and resulted in apoptotic induction. A12 effectiveness could be potentiated through combination treatment with small molecule inhibitors of the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK or PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways. These results validate the use of the FD/IGF-1R cells to evaluate the effectiveness and mechanisms of targeted IGF-1R therapeutic strategies.

Custom made C18 columns for the hydrophobic chromatography of cephalosporin C derivatives

"Hydrophobic chromatography", which is a variation of reverse phase chromatography, is applicable to the analysis of cephalosporin C derivatives, especially in fermentation broths. Unfortunately, there are no commercial C18 columns which are entirely suitable for this class of compounds. For this reason C18 columns were prepared by an in-situ bonding technique and were optimally designed for cephalosporin C derivatives. Mono-, di- and trifunctional octadecyl bonding agents were used with 10 microns silica of both 60 A and 100 A pore diameter. The best results were obtained with the difunctional agent, methyloctadecyldichlorosilane, and 100 A silica. "Endcapping" of residual silanol groups with a trimethylsilylation agent was optional, since good results were obtained with both a plain C18 column and one that was "endcapped".

Reverse phase high speed liquid chromatography of antibiotics. III. Use of ultra high performance columns and ion-pairing techniques

Improved methods for the separation and quantitation of cephalosporin, penicillin, aminoglycoside and anthracycline antibiotics are presented. The use of ultra high performance 5 micrometer phase columns combined with the added dimension of ion-pairing greatly increases the ease of separation and speed of analysis of complex antibiotic mixtures. Antibiotics in a variety of dosage forms and in fermentation broths have been examined in order to provide the maximum data on impurities to meet regulatory requirements for drug safety, purity and efficacy. Mixtures of antibiotics have been analyzed to demonstrate the improved separations, increased efficiency and shortened analysis times possible with ultra thin performance columns. Under these improved conditions, the danger of multiple components in a single peak are markedly reduced.

Risk management: preventive medicine for malpractice

The remedy for malpractice problems hinges on their identification and subsequent prevention. This study was undertaken to ascertain any patterns of medical negligence, as indicated by patients' allegations, so that specific recommendations could be made to health care providers. In general, it was found that most malpractice suits could have been avoided if more diligent patient care had been provided, particularly with regard to patient communication.

Reverse phase high speed liquid chromatography of antibiotics. II. Use of high efficiency small particle columns

Improved methods for the separation and quantitation of cephalosporins, penicillins, tetracyclines and several miscellaneous antibiotics by reverse phase high speed liquid chromatography are presented. The methods have been improved significantly by the substitution of high efficiency, small particle (approximately 10 micrometer reverse phase columns in place of the previously used medium efficiency, pellicular columns. The conditions and procedures described here illustrate that considerable improvements in separation and sensitivity of detection of antibiotics are achieved. Pure compounds, complex mixtures of antibiotics in a variety of dosage forms and fermentation broths are routinely analyzed by the described procedures.

The determination of cephradine and cephalexin by reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography

The application of reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography to the separation and analysis of cephradine and cephalexin is demonstrated. The procedure has been applied to chemicals, pharmaceutical formulations and reaction solutions. The preparation of samples is simple and rapid. Chromatographic conditions are described for both pellicular and small particle columns. The feasibility of determing cephradine and cephalexin in physiological fluids has also been demonstrated.

Reverse phase high speed liquid chromatography of antibiotics

Reverse phase high speed liquid chromatographic methods are presented for the separation and detection of cephalosporins, penicillins, tetracyclines and other miscellaneous antibiotics. The reverse phase approach is superior to ion-exchange liquid chromatography and spectrophotometric, chemical and microbiological procedures currently in use. In addition to being simple and easy to control, the technique is rapid, convenient and precise and provides the basis for the direct analysis of pure compounds, stability samples, complex mixtures and dosage forms of all types. Preparative chromatography has been used in our laboratory for the separation and isolation of up to 500 mg of antibiotics. Using this approach, we have separated and isolated small impurities as well as pure feference compounds. The methodology reported here can be extensively applied to the separation, quantitation and isolation of both naturally occurring and synthetically produced antibiotics in a variety of media including physiological fluids.

Radiation of hemocyanin: inactivation and reactivation of oxygen-carrying capacity

Oxygen-carrying capacity of hemocyanin from Limulus and Busycotypus (Busycon) decreases with increasing radiation, giving initial yield values for G(-O(2),) of 1.1 and 1.0, respectively. High radiation doses regenerate this capacity of Busycotypus hemocyanin. These effects are attributed largely to the dual nature of hydrogen peroxide, which, at low concentrations, oxidizes protein-bound copper and at high concentrations, that is, at high doses, reduces oxidized copper. The ability of hemocyanin to decompose hydrogen peroxide is relatively unaffected by irradiation, which suggests that copper atoms at the active sites are not all equivalent. The catalase-like activity of Busycotypus hemocyanin can be simulated by amino acid chelates of copper, including arginine, histidine, and glycine.