bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrafast field-driven valley polarization of transition metal dichalcogenide quantum dots
Authors: Mitra Aranyo , Zafar Ahmal Jawad , Apalkov Vadym
Published: February 2024

We study theoretically the electron dynamics of transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) quantum dots (QDs) in the field of an ultrashort and ultrafast circularly polarized optical pulse. The QDs have the shape of a disk and their electron systems are described within an effective model with infinite mass boundary conditions. Similar to TMDC monolayers, a circularly polarized pulse generates ultrafast valley polarization of such QDs. The dependence of the valley polarization on the size of the dot is sensitive to the dot material and, for different materials, show both monotonic increase with the dot radius and nonmonotonic behavior with a local maximum at a finite dot radius.
Magnetic doping in transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Coelho Paula Mariel
Published: February 2024

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are materials with unique electronic properties due to their two-dimensional nature. Recently, there is a large and growing interest in synthesizing ferromagnetic TMDCs for applications in electronic devices and spintronics. Apart from intrinsically magnetic examples, modification via either intrinsic defects or external dopants may induce ferromagnetism in non-magnetic TMDCs and, hence expand the application of these materials. Here, we review recent experimental work on intrinsically non-magnetic TMDCs that present ferromagnetism as a consequence of either intrinsic defects or doping via self-flux approach, ion implantation or e-beam evaporation. The experimental work discussed here is organized by modification/doping mechanism. We also review current work on density functional theory calculations that predict ferromagnetism in doped systems, which also serve as preliminary data for the choice of new doped TMDCs to be explored experimentally. Implementing a controlled process to induce magnetism in two-dimensional materials is key for technological development and this topical review discusses the fundamental procedures while presenting promising materials to be investigated in order to achieve this goal.
Self-consistent quantum-kinetic theory for interacting drifting electrons and force-driven phonons in a 1D system
Authors: Lu Xuejun , Huang Danhong
Published: February 2024

A self-consistent quantum-kinetic model is developed for studying strong-field nonlinear electron transport interacting with force-driven phonons within a nanowire system. For this model, phonons can be dragged into motion through strong electron–phonon scattering by fast-moving electrons along the opposite direction of the DC electric field. Meanwhile, the DC-field induced charge current of electrons can be either enhanced or reduced by the same electron–phonon scattering, depending on the relative direction of a DC field with respect to that of an applied temperature gradient for driving phonons. By making use of this quantum-kinetic model beyond the relaxation-time approximation, neither electron nor phonon temperature is required for describing ultrafast electron–phonon scattering and their correlated transports in this 1D electronic-lattice system.
Liquid-filled pipeline leak detection and localization based on multi-scale residual networks
Authors: Zhao Si-Liang , Zhou Lin-Hui , Liu Shao-Gang , Dong Li-Qiang , Hong Zhou , Zhao Dan , Guo Chang
Published: February 2024

Effective ways to improve the accuracy of liquid-filled pipeline leak detection are one of the key issues that need to be addressed urgently in a conservation-oriented society. Recently, pipeline leak detection methods based on deep learning have developed rapidly. To improve the learning ability of convolutional neural network for pipeline leak signal features and leak detection accuracy, a multi-scale residual networks (MSRNs) model is proposed in this paper for liquid-filled pipeline leak detection and localization. The model uses convolutional kernels of different scales to extract multiscale features of pipeline leakage signals based on deep residual networks (DRNs) and uses fully connected layers to fuse the features, thus improving the accuracy of pipeline leakage detection and localization. Among them, the large convolution kernel can acquire the low-frequency information of the signal due to its sizable perceptual field, the medium convolution kernel can capture the local and global features of the signal, and the small convolution kernel is more sensitive to the high-frequency information of the signal. Meanwhile, a pipeline leakage test platform is built to evaluate the proposed model. The test results show that the accuracy of leak detection and localization of MSRN model is 98.3%, which is better than that of single-scale DRN model. In addition, the proposed MSRN model is verified to have good generalization and noise immunity through testing and analyzing the leakage signals under different pressures and background noises.
Semi-supervised low-dose SPECT restoration using sinogram inner-structure aware graph neural network
Authors: Li Si , Chen Keming , Ma Xiangyuan , Liang Zengguo
Published: February 2024

Objective. To mitigate the potential radiation risk, low-dose single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is of increasing interest. Numerous deep learning-based methods have been developed to perform low-dose imaging while maintaining image quality. However, most existing methods seldom explore the unique inner-structure inherent within sinograms. In addition, traditional supervised learning methods require large-scale labeled data, where the normal-dose data serves as annotation and is intractable to acquire in low-dose imaging. In this study, we aim to develop a novel sinogram inner-structure-aware semi-supervised framework for the task of low-dose SPECT sinogram restoration. Approach. The proposed framework retains the strengths of UNet, meanwhile introducing a sinogram-structure-based non-local neighbors graph neural network (SSN-GNN) module and a window-based K-nearest neighbors GNN (W-KNN-GNN) module to effectively exploit the inherent inner-structure within SPECT sinograms. Moreover, the proposed framework employs the mean teacher semi-supervised learning approach to leverage the information available in abundant unlabeled low-dose sinograms. Main results. The datasets exploited in this study were acquired from the (Extended Cardiac-Torso) XCAT anthropomorphic digital phantoms, which provide realistic images for imaging research of various modalities. Quantitative as well as qualitative results demonstrate that the proposed framework achieves superior performance compared to several state-of-the-art reconstruction methods. To further validate the effectiveness of the proposed framework, ablation and robustness experiments were also performed. The experimental results show that each component of the proposed framework effectively improves the model performance, and the framework exhibits superior robustness with respect to various noise levels. Besides, the proposed semi-supervised paradigm showcases the efficacy of incorporating supplementary unlabeled low-dose sinograms. Significance. The proposed framework improves the quality of low-dose SPECT reconstructed images by utilizing sinogram inner-structure and incorporating supplementary unlabeled data, which provides an important tool for dose reduction without sacrificing the image quality.
Impact of and interplay between proton arc therapy and range uncertainties in proton therapy for head-and-neck cancer
Authors: Tattenberg Sebastian , Liu Peilin , Mulhem Anthony , Cong Xiaoda , Thome Christopher , Ding Xuanfeng
Published: February 2024

Objective. Proton therapy reduces the integral dose to the patient compared to conventional photon treatments. However, in vivo proton range uncertainties remain a considerable hurdle. Range uncertainty reduction benefits depend on clinical practices. During intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT), the target is irradiated from only a few directions, but proton arc therapy (PAT), for which the target is irradiated from dozens of angles, may see clinical implementation by the time considerable range uncertainty reductions are achieved. It is therefore crucial to determine the impact of PAT on range uncertainty reduction benefits. Approach. For twenty head-and-neck cancer patients, four different treatment plans were created: an IMPT and a PAT treatment plan assuming current clinical range uncertainties of 3.5% (IMPT3.5% and PAT3.5%), and an IMPT and a PAT treatment plan assuming that range uncertainties can be reduced to 1% (IMPT1% and PAT1%). Plans were evaluated with respect to target coverage and organ-at-risk doses as well as normal tissue complication probabilities (NTCPs) for parotid glands (endpoint: parotid gland flow <25%) and larynx (endpoint: larynx edema). Main results. Implementation of PAT (IMPT3.5%−PAT3.5%) reduced mean NTCPs in the nominal and worst-case scenario by 3.2 percentage points (pp) and 4.2 pp, respectively. Reducing range uncertainties from 3.5% to 1% during use of IMPT (IMPT3.5%−IMPT1%) reduced evaluated NTCPs by 0.9 pp and 2.0 pp. Benefits of range uncertainty reductions subsequently to PAT implementation (PAT3.5%−PAT1%) were 0.2 pp and 1.0 pp, with considerably higher benefits in bilateral compared to unilateral cases. Significance. The mean clinical benefit of implementing PAT was more than twice as high as the benefit of a 3.5%–1% range uncertainty reduction. Range uncertainty reductions are expected to remain beneficial even after PAT implementation, especially in cases with target positions allowing for full leveraging of the higher number of gantry angles during PAT.
Effect of hyper-resistivity on ballooning modes with resonant magnetic perturbations
Authors: Chen S Y , Mou M L , Liu T Q , Zhang Y M , Dong L K , Fan H , Lu X , Tang C J
Published: February 2024

The impact of hyper-resistivity on non-ideal ballooning modes (BMs) is studied in the presence of resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP) through considering the hyper-resistivity, resistivity and diamagnetic effect in the BM model with an equilibrium distorted by RMP, which is stable for ideal BMs. Similar to the resistivity, the hyper-resistivity is also destabilizing for the BMs, but RMPs make the mode spectrum of the BMs destabilized by the hyper-resistivity move towards the low toroidal mode number side on the flux surface with a safety factor slightly larger than the RMP resonance safety factor, where the growth rates of the BMs destabilized by the resistivity decrease due to RMP. When both the hyper-resistivity and the resistivity are considered, there is a sort of competitive relationship between them in determining the properties of BMs. If either of the hyper-resistivity term and the resistivity term is much larger than the other one, the instability of BMs is mainly determined by the larger one, and the effect of the smaller one is masked. The destabilizing mechanisms of the hyper-resistivity and the resistivity on BMs are similar, namely, the diffusion and dissipation of current and magnetic field weaken the stabilizing effect of magnetic field line bending. The research results may be important for understanding the enhancement of plasma transport and the mechanism of small edge localized mode (ELM) during ELM control with RMP.
Absolute calibration of the ratio of Xe/O two-photon absorption cross-sections for O-TALIF applications
Authors: Shu Z , Popov N A , Starikovskaia S M
Published: February 2024

The paper presents a calibration of the ratio of two-photon absorption cross-sections,

σ

X
e

(
2
)

/

σ

O

(
2
)

, necessary for the absolute O-atom density measurements by two-photon absorption laser-induced fluorescence (TALIF) technique. To calibrate the ratio of the cross-sections, a special discharge with 100% dissociation of molecular oxygen, and so with a known ‘reference’ density of O-atom [O]

r
e
f

=
2
⋅

[O2] was suggested. This is a nanosecond capillary discharge in N2:O2 mixtures with a few percent of oxygen at a reduced electric field of a few hundred of Townsend and specific deposited energy of about 1 eV mol−1. Voltage at the electrodes, electrical current in the plasma, longitudinal electric field and energy delivered to the gas were measured with 0.2 ns synchronisation. Additionally, radial distribution of emission of excited nitrogen molecules and gas temperature in the discharge and afterglow were obtained experimentally. Detailed 1D kinetic modeling was suggested to confirm complete O2 dissociation and to analyse the main reactions. By comparing the data measured by TALIF technique with the ‘reference’ density of oxygen atoms [O]

r
e
f

, the ratio of the two-photon absorption cross-sections

σ

X
e

(
2
)

/

σ

O

(
2
)

was determined.
Polarization state conversion achieved by chiral mechanical metamaterial
Authors: Mangach Hicham , Achaoui Younes , Kadic Muamer , Bouzid Abdenbi , Guenneau Sébastien , Zeng Shuwen
Published: February 2024

Recently, metamaterials have driven advancements in wave propagation and polarization control. Chiral elastic metamaterials, in particular, have attracted considerable attention due to their distinctive properties, such as acoustical activity and auxeticity. Such characteristics arise from the additional degrees of freedom for tuning the embedded micro- and macro-rotations. In this study, we demonstrate an unusual energy exchange between longitudinal and in-plane shear waves in a 3D chiral mechanical metamaterial. The structural design is capable of inducing up to a 90∘ rotation in the plane of polarization. Additionally, this capacity for conversion is achieved by employing both an arrangement of chiral cells and a single meta-atom. This peculiar behavior enables a seamless switch between the three polarization states existing within a solid material, namely, the longitudinal state, the shear horizontal state, and the shear vertical state. Furthermore, a 2D discrete mono-atomic mass-spring model featuring inclined connectors is used to characterize the distinctive energy exchange between modes. This characterization is based on the retrieval of the pertinent elastic coefficients. The engineered chiral metamaterial polarization converter stands as a promising device for momentum conservation conversions and applications in elasto-dynamic polarimetry.
Novel hybrid-CMOS inverter utilizing phase transition material for enhancing digital logic performance at lower operating voltages
Authors: Sorot Ritika , Goel Anubha , Rewari Sonam
Published: February 2024

This research paper introduces a novel design for a hybrid-CMOS inverter using vanadium dioxide (VO2), a phase transition material. The proposed inverter exhibits a remarkably steep transition for falling logic at the output(1–0). By leveraging the insulating to metallic current density (IC-IMT) of VO2, the depth and gain of this transition can be finely tuned. Notably, a higher IC-IMT value yields a greater gain in the transition slope. In comparison to a traditional CMOS inverter, the designed inverter demonstrates several advantages. It achieves higher values of lower noise margin (NML) and significantly reduces static power dissipation by 97.7%. These promising outcomes present an exciting opportunity for designing inverters at lower drain voltages, especially in devices operating at lower technology nodes. Furthermore, the hybrid-CMOS inverter is designed to excel in the sub-threshold region of operation, resulting in elevated values of lower noise margin and reduced leakage current values.
Average trapping time on horizontally divided 3-dimensional 3-level Sierpinski gasket network
Authors: Sun Yu , Xiang Zuodong
Published: February 2024

An important characteristic of random wandering is the average trapping time, which is a hot issue in current research. The average trapping time is an important measure of the transmission efficiency of random wandering in a network. In this paper, we construct a 3-dimensional 3-level Sierpinski gasket network divided horizontally by the horizontal division plane P

s
, that is, the division coefficients s. We study the capture problem on the network and obtain an analytical expression for the average trapping time (ATT). Then, by adjusting the number of iterations and the values of the division coefficients, we obtained the relationship between ATT and them. As can be seen from our numerical simulation plots, ATT is affected by s. The larger s is, the more the self-similar structure of the three-dimensional residual network gradually transforms towards the structure of the two-dimensional complete Sierpinski gasket network. Meanwhile, the shorter ATT is, that is, the more efficient the transmission on the network.
Effect of transmutation rhenium on tensile properties of tungsten by molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Wen Shulong , Pan Min
Published: February 2024

The tensile properties of W-Re alloys are studied using molecular dynamics method. Two forms of transmutation Re uniform distribution and cluster distribution in W-Re alloys are systematically explored, W-xRe alloys and W-nRe clusters, respectively. The effects of Re concentration, Re cluster number density, and temperature on the tensile properties are discussed. Findings suggest that Young’s modulus of W-xRe alloys decreases with increasing Re concentration, reaching only 323 GPa when the Re concentration is 50 at.%. The ultimate stress of W-xRe alloys is lower than that of pure tungsten, indicating that the presence of Re would accelerates the fracture of W-xRe alloys. Additionally, Re clusters of different sizes and number density are constructed in tungsten, forming the W-nRe cluster system. Interestingly Re clusters can reduce tensile strength, and the strain hardening modulus (E
sh) is independent of the single Re cluster size. With an increase in Re cluster number density, Young’s modulus, ultimate stress, and ultimate strain decrease gradually, leading to fracture in the Re cluster position. Non-coherent and semi-coherent interfaces between Re cluster (χ- and σ-phases) and W lattice cause Re cluster to undergo imbalance stress. For example, in W-12.5 at.% Re alloys, stress–strain curves are studied at different temperatures, revealing that Young’s modulus decreases with increasing temperature, reaching 292 GPa at 1300 K. A linear formula is obtained by fitting Young’s modulus-temperature curve. These results provide important theoretical references for the design of W-Re alloys as the PFMs in the ITER.
Effect of ingredients proportions on mechanical properties in laser-coated WC-blend welds
Authors: Wang ConRong , Zhong ZengQi , Jean Ming Der
Published: February 2024

In this study, we investigated ceramic-matrix composite coatings created by laser cladding on 45 steel using tungsten carbide (WC) powder with varying weight percentages of Co or Ni additives. Our analysis focused on the influence of Co additives in WC powders on the key properties of the coatings, including the microstructural evolution, hardness, wear, and residual stress behaviors. High residual stresses led to significant cracking in coatings comprising 100% WC. The addition of Co at a concentration of 20% to WC reduces the cracking activity. The microhardness of the coating exceeded that of the substrate by a factor of more than five. The microstructural evolution revealed a typical intergranular fracture in the molten zone, with cracks propagating through the interior of the unmelted WC at 100% WC. In addition, by adding Ni alloys, the composite coatings were extended to three mixtures: WC-Co, WC-Ni, and WC-Co-Ni. The relationship between the three-component mixtures and wear volume of the laser cladding was established, and the ratios of the three-component mixtures were optimized. A reduced quadratic model for three-component mixtures, which provided a better mixture ratio pattern, showed an excellent fit. Based on the experimental results, the developed three-component mixture with better mixture ratios can enhance anti-wear behavior. A satisfactory agreement was obtained between the predicted and experimental values of the wear volume of the laser-coated welds. Overall, our study accomplishes the optimization of the mixture ratio of the three components, which ensured a reduction in the wear of the welds, thereby improving the performance of laser-coated welds.
New evidence for CH4 enhancement in the upper troposphere associated with the Asian summer monsoon
Authors: Tao Mengchu , Cai Zhaonan , Zhu Sihong , Liu Yi , Feng Liang , Fang Shuangxi , Yi You , Bian Jianchun
Published: February 2024

The Asian summer monsoon (ASM) region is a key region transporting air to the upper troposphere (UT), significantly influencing the distribution and concentration of trace gases, including methane (CH4), an important greenhouse gas. We investigate the seasonal enhancement of CH4 in the UT over the ASM region, utilizing retrievals from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS), model simulations and in-situ measurements. Both the AIRS data and model simulation reveal a substantial enhancement in CH4 concentrations within the active monsoon region of up to 3%, referring to the zonal means, and of up to 6% relative to the pre-monsoon season. Notably, the spatial distribution of the CH4 plume demonstrates a southwestward shift in the AIRS retrievals, in contrast to the model simulations, which predict a broader enhancement, including a significant increase to the east. A cross-comparison with in-situ measurements, including AirCore measurements over the Tibetan Plateau and airline sampling across the ASM anticyclone (ASMA), favors the enhancement represented by model simulation. Remarkable CH4 enhancement over the west Pacific is also evidenced by in-situ data and simulation as a dynamical extension of the ASMA. Our findings underscore the necessity for cautious interpretation of satellite-derived CH4 distributions, and highlight the critical role of in-situ data in anchoring the assimilation of CH4.
Geographic variation in projected US forest aboveground carbon responses to climate change and atmospheric deposition
Authors: Reese Aspen , Clark Christopher M , Phelan Jennifer , Buckley John , Cajka James , Sabo Robert D , Van Houtven George
Published: February 2024

Forest composition and ecosystem services are sensitive to anthropogenic pressures like climate change and atmospheric deposition of nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S). Here we extend recent forest projections for the current cohort of trees in the contiguous US, characterizing potential changes in aboveground tree carbon at the county level in response to varying mean annual temperature, precipitation, and N and S deposition. We found that relative to a scenario with N and S deposition reduction and no climate change, greater climate change led generally to decreasing aboveground carbon (mean −7.5% under RCP4.5, −16% under RCP8.5). Keeping climate constant, reduced N deposition tended to lessen aboveground carbon (mean −7%), whereas reduced S deposition tended to increase aboveground carbon (+3%) by 2100. Through mid-century (2050), deposition was more important for predicting carbon responses except under the extreme climate scenarios (RCP8.5); but, by 2100, climate drivers generally outweighed deposition. While more than 70% of counties showed reductions in aboveground carbon relative to the reference scenario, these were not evenly distributed across the US. Counties in the Northwest and Northern Great Plains, and the northern parts of New England and the Midwest, primarily showed positive responses, while counties in the Southeast showed negative responses. Counties with greater initial biomass showed less negative responses to climate change while those which exhibited the greatest change in composition (>15%) had a 95% chance of losing carbon relative to a no-climate change scenario. This analysis highlights that declines in forest growth and survival due to increases in mean temperature and reductions in atmospheric N deposition are likely to outweigh positive impacts of reduced S deposition and potential increases in precipitation. These effects vary at the regional and county level, however, so forest managers must consider local rather than national dynamics to maximize forest carbon sinks in the future.
The steady state of the boundary-driven multiparticle asymmetric diffusion model
Authors: Frassek Rouven , Szécsényi István M
Published: February 2024

We consider the multiparticle asymmetric diffusion model (MADM) introduced by Sasamoto and Wadati with integrability preserving reservoirs at the boundaries. In contrast to the open asymmetric simple exclusion process the number of particles allowed per site is unbounded in the MADM. Taking inspiration from the stationary measure in the symmetric case, i.e. the rational limit, we first obtain the length 1 solution and then show that the steady state can be expressed as an iterated product of Jackson q-integrals. In the proof of the stationarity condition, we observe a cancellation mechanism that closely resembles the one of the matrix product ansatz. To our knowledge, the occupation probabilities in the steady state of the boundary-driven MADM were not available before.
Aggregate gradation effect on the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures
Authors: Sulaiman Imad Dawood , abed Jasim M , Al-Saffar Zaid Hazim , Jaya Ramadhansyah Putra
Published: February 2024

The issue of road deterioration in Mosul, Iraq, has become a matter of concern for local communities. The instability of road surfaces under the stress of vehicular traffic necessitates significant intervention to mitigate and manage this problem. This study has developed an asphalt mixture by following the Bailey method for aggregate gradation. The impact of aggregate gradation on the mechanical properties of the asphalt mixture was thoroughly analysed. Additionally, two separate mixtures were conducted using the conventional Marshall method to assess indirect tensile strength, Marshall properties, and susceptibility to moisture damage. The primary objective of this research is to design an aggregate structure that acts as a robust unit capable of withstanding heavy loads, repeated stresses, and high temperatures. The findings of the study indicate that the asphalt mixture created using the Bailey method exhibited superior stability with values of 13.6 kN, compared to the two traditional mixtures (11.8 kN, 9.2 kN), and. However, it is worth noting that the flow values also indicated a relative preference for the Bailey method, with values of and 3.1 mm, compared with 3.85 mm and 3.2 mm of the traditional mixtures. The results of Tensile strength ratio further corroborated the efficacy of Bailey’s technique, with outcomes of 85.1 %, thus enhancing the applicability of this method. This observation is attributed to the concept of granular interlocking, which forms the foundation of the Bailey method.
The effect of sand on the mechanical characteristics of gypsum-lime mortars for heritage buildings
Authors: abed Duaa M , abed Jasim M , Al-Saffar Zaid H , Jaya Ramadhansyah Putra
Published: February 2024

The endurance and preservation of historical buildings greatly depend on the integration of lime into the mortar used for masonry linings. Therefore, conducting mechanical assessments of existing and restoration mortars is crucial to ensure their compatibility and prevent potential issues. This article emphasizes the role of sand in enhancing the efficiency and resilience of gypsum-lime mortars by examining how it influences on their mechanical properties. The main aim of this research is to provide practical guidance for the sustainable restoration and conservation of historical edifices. The study examines the mechanical attributes of gypsum-lime mortars for restoring historical structures, with a specific focus on evaluating the impact of different sand proportions (10%, 15%, and 20% by gypsum volume). Moreover, the results were scrutinized to comprehend the compositions, structural features, and compressive strength. Among the six mortar blends, the addition of 15% sand was identified as the most effective augmentation to gypsum-lime, demonstrating comparable workability. Furthermore, this proportion exhibited improved compressive and flexural strengths on the seventh day compared to pure gypsum-lime. This highlights the potential economic application and further enhancement of this locally sourced product in various finishing applications. Notably, gypsum-lime mortar infused with 15% sand exhibited optimal structural properties, particularly in terms of compressive strength.
Palm Oil Fuel Ash, Garnet Waste and Sawdust as Modified Asphalt Mixture: A Critical Review
Authors: Wan Noor Hin M S , Ramadhansyah P J , Masri K A
Published: February 2024

The addition of palm oil fuel ash (POFA), garnet waste, and sawdust as a modified asphalt binder and mixture for paving materials show that recycling materials from industrial and agricultural waste have been implemented with environmental concern, increasing the proper handling of this waste product. The use of POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust as a modifier to improve the properties of binder and mixture is critically evaluated in this study. The review focuses on the evaluation of POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust in asphalt binder and mixture modification. In essence, the combination of POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust offer a promising waste materials potential to enhance the rheological and mechanical performance of the modified binder and mixture. The use of this modification in the binder and mixture is expected to improve performance and be on par with the traditional asphalt binder and mixture.
Review of Subgrade Soil Stabilised with Natural and Synthetic Fibres
Authors: Nathen J M , Arshad A K , Rais N M , Shaffie E , Ismail F , Kamaluddin N A , Malek A Z A
Published: February 2024

Subgrade soil is an essential component in the design of road structures as it provides lateral support to the roadway. One of the main reasons for pavement failure is subgrade settlement, which leads to a loss of subgrade strength. If the mechanical properties of subsoils are lower than required, a soil stabilisation method may be an option to improve the soil properties of the weak subsoil. Soil stabilisation is one of the techniques for improving poor subsoil, which results in significant improvement in tensile strength, shear strength and bearing capacity of subsoil. Soil stabilisation can be broadly divided into four types: thermal, electrical, mechanical, and chemical. The most common method of improving the physical and mechanical properties of soils is stabilisation with binders such as cement and lime. However, soil stabilisation with conventional methods using cement and lime has become uneconomical in recent years, so an alternative such as fibres may be sought. This review provides a comprehensive comparison of the effectiveness of natural fibres and synthetic fibres in stabilising subgrade soils.
Incorporating Solid Waste Particles into Concrete Design to Enhance Drainage Infrastructure
Authors: Nadiatul Adilah A A G , Muhammad Fathi Z , Ramadhansyah P J , Khairil Azman M , Wan Mohd Faizal W I
Published: February 2024

The inadequate drainage structure can cause water to accumulate on the surface of the pavement, leading to degradation and reduced lifespan of the concrete structure. This study focuses on the incorporation of solid waste particles into the concrete mix to enhance the drainage structure and other concrete structures. Solid waste particles (SWP) are added to the concrete mix to improve the strength and absorption of the concrete, thus increasing the drainage efficiency. This is an economically effective solution since solid waste particles are common and easily accessible. The study investigates the effect of different percentages of solid waste particles (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) on the mechanical properties of the concrete mix and its permeability. Compressive strength tests were used to determine the mechanical parameters of the concrete mixtures and water absorption test to describe the porosity and moisture sensitivity of concrete.
Effect of Polymer-Modified Bitumen and Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement on The Physical Properties of Bitumen
Authors: Odubela C. A. , Yaacob H. , Warid M. N. M. , Karim K. J. A. , Mohd Lazi M. K. A. , Kamaruddin N. H. M. , Jaya R. P. , Al-Saffar Z. H. , Rahim M. I. K. A.
Published: February 2024

The high cost of road construction due to the energy required for new material production and the environmental impact necessitates the use of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and other waste materials. This paper examined the effect of using RAP with a PET additive as a rejuvenator. PET additive (2%) was added to the virgin binder (VB) of 60/70 penetration grade to form a Polymer modified bitumen (PMB). RAP percentages used were 30, 40, and 50%, respectively. The physical properties were examined using the penetration, softening point, and ductility. The results show that the physical properties of RAP were improved by utilizing Rap binder (RB) and PMB mix ratio. The penetration and ductility values increased by 46.4% and 66.7%, respectively, with the PMB (30): RB (70) ratio blend, compared to RB: VB blend. This suggests a reduction in brittle behavior and less stiffness with the addition of PMB in the blend, enhancing the flexibility of the RAP. Although both mixtures blended with RB exhibited softening points within the acceptable range, improved performance was observed with RB/PMB mix blend over RB/VB blend when used in hot asphalt mixture.
Satellite-based landslide distribution mapping with the adoption of deep learning approach in the Kuantan River Basin, Pahang
Authors: Yusri Nur Aqilah , Misbari Syarifuddin , Ismail Izza Wajihah , Gisen Jacqueline Isabella Anak
Published: February 2024

Landslides are one of the major geological phenomena that is widespread across the globe and have caused destructive outcomes to human life and the overall economic system. Tedious work is required to conventionally collect all evidence of multiple sizes of landslide occurrences in such a huge, developing city, including the Kuantan River Basin (KRB). In fact, landslides are difficult to identify in remote areas, such as in thick and mountainous areas, if no aerial devices or sensor technology is provided at the incident area. Ironically, the landslide distribution map is a useful tool that helps in staging the landslide mitigation plan for landslide-prone areas. Thus, the objectives of this study are (i) to identify landslide events using deep learning and vegetation index approaches on optical satellite data; and (ii) to develop landslide distribution mapping in KRB using the best approach. Remotely sensed optical images of Landsat 8 OLI and Worldview-2 were used to map the landslide distribution and study the spectral pattern of the landslide area. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) were generated for two consecutive years, which is from the year 2022 to 2023. Spectral bands in red and infrared are used to generate the NDVI for visual interpretation of landslide occurrences. The deep learning based on Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model were used for the pixel classification process. The main output of this study would be a landslide distribution map for the KRB area with high accuracy. The result has also been verified using drone monitoring at the incident sites, which was able to improve landslide detection in tropical environments. Landslide distribution maps accuracy was measured by using the ROC-AUC method, the map accuracy is 88.9%. This map should help the government and private sector plan for the city’s urban development and provide proper planning for geohazard mitigation. An accurate landslide distribution map could be a source of reference for the National Disaster Management Authority (NADMA) for a quick rescue during emergency.
Low Flow Frequency Analysis at Triang River Streamflow Station
Authors: Samat S R , Lewis N A F I , Othman N
Published: February 2024

Low flow analysis is essential for determining the communities’ water supply. As water supply is a necessity for human daily survival, it is crucial to recognize that the availability of water can have a significant impact on local livelihoods and the sustainability of local populations. Triang River is a tributary of the Pahang River in Peninsular Malaysia. The existence of the Triang Water Intake and Treatment Plant along the Triang River stream serves to determine the low flow magnitudes and frequency curves for the Triang River streamflow station using the Weibull, Gringorten, and Cunnane plotting position formulas. Based on 20 years of historical data, this study analyzed the annual minimum streamflow data for 1-, 4-, 7-, and 30-day durations as well as the average recurrence intervals (ARIs) of 2-, 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, and 100-year streamflow data. These three plotting position formulas were successfully used to estimate the low flow magnitudes for the various durations and different ARIs. The findings can serve as a guide for developing future water resource projects that take into account the Triang River’s low flow data.
Generation of a super-oscillation magnetization hotspot by reversing the electric dipole array radiation
Authors: Xiao Ruimin , Xiong Junyi , Wang Zhiyuan , Zhou Jia , Dai Guohong , Cai Mengqiang , Yan Weichao
Published: February 2024

We propose an all-optical approach to realize a super-oscillatory longitudinal magnetization hotspot with about 0.1λ in a 4π focusing system using time-reversed dipole radiation and vector diffraction theory calculations. Such a magnetization behavior is induced by focal fields of opposite polarities in the central and peripheral regions based on the inverse Faraday effect. By regulating the destructive interference in the central and peripheral regions of the focal field, a super-oscillating magnetization field is generated. Moreover, two important parameters affect the size of the magnetization field are also explored. Superoscillating magnetization hotspots in the focal region can be achieved by either increasing δ (the intensity of electric field) or reducing

d
n

(the distance of electric field). The achieved ultrasmall magnetization spot shows great prospects in high-density magnetic recording, magnetic resonance imaging, and magnetic sensors.
Comparison of transport coefficients before and after density pump-out induced by resonant magnetic perturbation using a BOUT++ six-field model on the EAST tokamak
Authors: DENG 邓 Chengcheng 成成 , LIU 刘 Zixi 子奚 , XIA 夏 Tianyang 天阳 , LIU 刘 Yanjun 彦君 , LI 厉 Pengcheng 鹏程 , LONG 龙 Feifei 飞飞 , GAO 高 Xiang 翔 , WANG 王 Shouxin 守信 , LI 李 Guoqiang 国强 , LIU 刘 Haiqing 海庆 , ZANG 臧 Qing 庆 , LI 李 Jiuying 玖瑛 , YANG 杨 Kangning 康宁 , WU 吴 Mingfu 茗甫 , YIN 尹 Xiaoyu 晓宇 , LI 李 Hong 弘 , XIE 谢 Jinlin 锦林 , LAN 兰 Tao 涛 , MAO 毛 Wenzhe 文哲 , LIU 刘 Adi 阿娣 , ZHOU 周 Chu 楚 , DING 丁 Weixing 卫星 , ZHUANG 庄 Ge 革 , LIU 刘 Wandong 万东 , the EAST Team
Published: February 2024

Many experiments have demonstrated that resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP) can affect the turbulent transport at the edge of the tokamak. Through the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) density modulation experiment, the particle transport coefficients were calculated using the experimental data, and the result shows that the particle transport coefficients increase with RMP. In this study, the six-field two-fluid model in BOUT++ is used to simulate the transport before and after density pump-out induced by RMP, respectively referred as the case without RMP and the case with RMP. In the linear simulations, the instabilities generally decreases for cases with RMP. In the nonlinear simulation, ELM only appears in the case without RMP. Additionally, the particle transport coefficient was analyzed, and the result shows that the particle transport coefficient becomes larger for the case with RMP, which is consistent with the experimental conclusion. Moreover, its magnitude is comparable to the results calculated from experimental data.
Zeros of a growing number of derivatives of random polynomials with independent roots
Authors: Michelen Marcus , Vu Xuan-Truong
Published: February 2024

Let

X
1

,

X
2

,
…

X_1,X_2,\ldots

be independent and identically distributed random variables in

C

{\mathbb {C}}

chosen from a probability measure

μ
\mu

and define the random polynomial
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="StartLayout 1st Row upper P Subscript n Baseline left-parenthesis z right-parenthesis equals left-parenthesis z minus upper X 1 right-parenthesis ellipsis left-parenthesis z minus upper X Subscript n Baseline right-parenthesis period EndLayout">

P
n

(
z
)
=
(
z
−

X
1

)
…
(
z
−

X
n

)

.

\begin{align*} P_n(z)=(z-X_1)\ldots (z-X_n)\,. \end{align*}

We show that for any sequence

k
=
k
(
n
)

k = k(n)

satisfying

k
≤
log
⁡
n

/

(
5
log
⁡
log
⁡
n
)

k \leq \log n / (5 \log \log n)

, the zeros of the

k
k

th derivative of

P
n

P_n

are asymptotically distributed according to the same measure

μ
\mu

. This extends work of Kabluchko, which proved the

k
=
1

k = 1

case, as well as Byun, Lee and Reddy [Trans. Amer. Math. Soc. 375, pp. 6311–6335] who proved the fixed

k
k

case.
Elementary abelian subgroups: From algebraic groups to finite groups
Authors: An Jianbei , Dietrich Heiko , Litterick Alastair
Published: February 2024

We describe a new approach for classifying conjugacy classes of elementary abelian subgroups in simple algebraic groups over an algebraically closed field, and understanding the normaliser and centraliser structure of these. For toral subgroups, we give an effective classification algorithm. For non-toral elementary abelian subgroups, we focus on algebraic groups of exceptional type with a view to future applications, and in this case we provide tables explicitly describing the subgroups and their local structure. We then describe how to transfer results to the corresponding finite groups of Lie type using the Lang-Steinberg Theorem; this will be used in forthcoming work to complete the classification of elementary abelian

p
p

-subgroups for torsion primes 

p
p

in finite groups of exceptional Lie type. Such classification results are important for determining the maximal

p
p

-local subgroups and

p
p

-radical subgroups, both of which play a crucial role in modular representation theory.
Influencing Factors of Psychological Resilience in Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Xie Hongxia , Sun Hongyu , Ren Liya , Jiang Hao , Chen Meijia , Dong Chaoqun
Published: February 2024

Objective

To systematically review the current status and influencing factors of psychological resilience in stroke patients and to provide a theoretical basis for future personalized rehabilitation support and psychological interventions.

Method

This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist. A comprehensive search of databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, CMB, and WANGFANG was conducted from inception until November 22, 2023, resulting in the retrieval of 2099 studies. Literature screening and data extraction were performed by two independent evaluators based on pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software.

Results

The final review included 23 studies. The results showed that self-efficacy, hope, confrontation coping, avoidance coping, functional independence, quality of life, and social support were positively associated with psychological resilience. Conversely, anxiety, depression, and resignation coping were negatively associated with psychological resilience.

Conclusions

Patients with stroke have a low level of psychological resilience, which was influenced by a variety of factors. However, longitudinal and large sample studies are needed to further confirm these findings. These results should be integrated into clinical practice for early assessment and targeted intervention in psychological resilience to assist patients in coping with the rehabilitation process and life changes after a stroke.
scDecouple: decoupling cellular response from infected proportion bias in scCRISPR-seq
Authors: Meng Qiuchen , Wei Lei , Ma Kun , Shi Ming , Lin Xinyi , Ho Joshua W K , Li Yinqing , Zhang Xuegong
Published: February 2024

Single-cell clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-sequencing (scCRISPR-seq) is an emerging high-throughput CRISPR screening technology where the true cellular response to perturbation is coupled with infected proportion bias of guide RNAs (gRNAs) across different cell clusters. The mixing of these effects introduces noise into scCRISPR-seq data analysis and thus obstacles to relevant studies. We developed scDecouple to decouple true cellular response of perturbation from the influence of infected proportion bias. scDecouple first models the distribution of gene expression profiles in perturbed cells and then iteratively finds the maximum likelihood of cell cluster proportions as well as the cellular response for each gRNA. We demonstrated its performance in a series of simulation experiments. By applying scDecouple to real scCRISPR-seq data, we found that scDecouple enhances the identification of biologically perturbation-related genes. scDecouple can benefit scCRISPR-seq data analysis, especially in the case of heterogeneous samples or complex gRNA libraries.
CMAT: ClinVar Mapping and Annotation Toolkit
Authors: Shen April , Barbero Marcos Casado , Koylass Baron , Tsukanov Kirill , Cezard Tim , Keane Thomas M
Published: February 2024

Semantic ontology mapping of clinical descriptors with disease outcome is essential. ClinVar is a key resource for human variation with known clinical significance. We present CMAT, a software toolkit and curation protocol for accurately enriching ClinVar releases with disease ontology associations and complex functional consequences.

Availability and implementation

The software and ontology mappings can be obtained from: https://github.com/EBIvariation/CMAT.
Individualized social niches in animals: Theoretical clarifications and processes of niche change
Authors: Kaiser Marie I , Gadau Jürgen , Kaiser Sylvia , Müller Caroline , Richter S Helene
Published: February 2024

What are social niches, and how do they arise and change? Our first goal in the present article is to clarify the concept of an individualized social niche and to distinguish it from related concepts, such as a social environment and a social role. We argue that focal individuals are integral parts of individualized social niches and that social interactions with conspecifics are further core elements of social niches. Our second goal in the present article is to characterize three types of processes—social niche construction, conformance, and choice (social NC3 processes)—that explain how individualized social niches originate and change. Our approach brings together studies of behavior, ecology, and evolution and integrates social niches into the broader concept of an individualized ecological niche. We show how clarifying the concept of a social niche and recognizing the differences between the three social NC3 processes enhance and stimulate empirical research.
The Eyes and Ears of Sexual Exploitation Online: Are Sex Buyers Part of the Prevention Puzzle to Reduce Harms in the Online Sex Industry?
Authors: Keighley Rachel , Sanders Teela
Published: February 2024

UK efforts to prevent modern slavery and sexual exploitation online include assessing Adult Service Websites’ (ASWs) moderation and prevention responsibilities. Yet little is known about the role of sex buyers, as the political rhetoric assumes they are sexual offenders within the neo-abolitionist context (Serughetti 2013). Drawing from a large-scale study looking at ASWs’ responsibilities in preventing sexual exploitation online, this article shares findings from a survey with 142 sex buyers, understanding their role in this arena. Buyers possess detailed knowledge of sex working practices and indicators of exploitation. Thus, as actors in the prevention puzzle, they are uniquely positioned to understand how regulation can assist in crime prevention but equally create unintended consequences for the consensual sex industry online.