bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wave diffraction and radiation studies of an array of coaxial double-layer porous cylindrical structures placed on a porous seabed
Authors: Cao Jiaxiu , Wang Jin , Wang Chao , Wang Zeping , Yu Fajun
Published: December 2023

This article theoretically investigates the diffraction and radiation of an array of coaxial double-layer porous cylindrical structures placed on a porous seabed. The array of the structures is considered a bottom-mounted cylindrical structure with vanishing thickness. Under the assumption of a small amplitude wave theory, the hydrodynamic characteristics of an array of coaxial double-layer porous cylindrical structures are investigated. The diffraction and the radiation of the structure array are investigated using the eigenfunction expansion method, Bessel function addition theory, and Darcy's law. Analytical expressions for the velocity potentials and free-surface elevations for the diffraction and radiation of the structural array are derived. Finally, the unknown coefficients of the velocity potential are determined using the matching feature function method. After completing the validation, a detailed parameter study is conducted on the structural array, and the hydrodynamic characteristics of the structure array under the influence of different parameters are discussed and explained. Taking the horizontal layout as an example, the results show that in addition to the influence of structure parameters such as porosity, the radius ratio, and the cylinder distance on the hydrodynamic presence of the array of porous structures, the number of cylinders has a greater influence on the hydrodynamic characteristics of the array of porous structures. The calculation results of the diffraction and radiation of an array of porous structures placed on a porous seabed are closer to the actual situation, which can better understand the interaction between waves and porous structure and provide effective theoretical reference for engineers to design ocean structures.
Study of flashlamp annealing to promote crystallization of indium tin oxide thin films
Authors: Neitzke Ethan , Fan Qi Hua
Published: December 2023

The use of flashlamp annealing as a low-temperature alternative or supplement to thermal annealing is investigated. Flashlamp annealing and thermal annealing were conducted on 100 nm thick indium tin oxide (ITO) films deposited on glass to compare the properties of films under different annealing methods. The ITO samples had an average initial sheet resistance of 50 Ω/sq. After flashlamp annealing, the sheet resistance was reduced to 33 Ω/sq only, while by thermal annealing at 210 °C for 30 min, a sheet resistance of 29 Ω/sq was achieved. Using a combination of flashlamp annealing and thermal annealing at 155 °C for 5 min, a sheet resistance of 29 Ω/sq was achieved. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed that flashlamp annealing can be used to crystallize ITO. Flashlamp annealing allows for low-temperature crystallization of ITO on a time scale of 1–3 min. Through electrical and optical characterizations, it was determined that flashlamp annealing can achieve similar electrical and optical properties as thermal annealing. Flashlamp offers the method of low-temperature annealing, which is particularly suitable for temperature sensitive substrates.
Growth, crystal structures, and magnetic properties of Fe–As films grown on GaAs (111)B substrates by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Aota Seiji , Anh Le Duc , Tanaka Masaaki
Published: December 2023

We study epitaxial growth, crystal structures, and magnetic properties of Fe–As compound thin films grown on GaAs (111)B substrates at various values of the As4:Fe flux ratio γ, using molecular beam epitaxy. The samples grown at low As4 flux (γ = 0.3, sample A) show mainly a body-centered-cubic (bcc) crystal structure, exhibiting ferromagnetic properties similar to bcc Fe. Meanwhile, the Fe–As samples grown at medium γ (2.7–4.5, sample group B) comprise regions of Ni2In-type FeAs (a hexagonal crystal with lattice constants of a = 0.399 nm and c = 0.536 nm), which are grown at the bottom and interface with the GaAs buffer layer, and a layer of non-stoichiometric FeAs with a DO3 structure (a = 0.522 nm) formed on the top. The DO3-structure FeAs phase contains partially transformed regions, which are characterized by thin stripes in a scanning transmission electron microscopy image. Furthermore, in the sample grown with high γ = 8.5 (sample C), a hexagonal Fe–As crystal with a large in-plane lattice constant (a = 0.691 nm and c = 0.542 nm) and threefold screw axes are observed. None of these crystal structures of Fe–As compounds has ever been reported. While sample C shows no ferromagnetism, the samples in group B exhibit strong ferromagnetism with high Curie temperature TC above 400 K. These new ferromagnetic Fe–As compounds are promising for spintronic device applications.
High-precision realization for sensing charged particles based on optomechanically induced two-color second-order sidebands
Authors: Wang Junfeng , Xue Yafeng , Liu Shaopeng , Li Ying , Liu Bo
Published: December 2023

We propose an effective scheme to sense charged particles by employing two-color second-order sidebands (TSSs) in a hybrid optomechanical system. This is realized in an optomechanical cavity with a double-oscillator structure, where the Coulomb force acting on two charged oscillators participates in nonlinear optomechanical interaction. With the aid of mechanical mode splitting induced by the Coulomb force, we report that the TSS spectrum can be generated and enhanced when the strong absorption in the transmission spectrum allows the TSS generated pathways to be readily accessed. More importantly, after seeking two correlations between the TSS spectra and the charged particles deposited on the oscillator, we design a dual-parameter sensor to measure the mass and the charge of the external particles simultaneously. Through evaluating the influence of the thermomechanical noise on the optomechanical sensing device, the resolution for detecting the mass and the charge of the measured particles can be identified as δm≈1.7×10−18g and δQ≈1.6×10−18C, respectively.
Analyzing k · p modeling in highly mismatched alloys and other III–V semiconductors
Authors: Gladysiewicz Marta , Wartak M. S.
Published: December 2023

This Tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of various k⋅p models used to describe the electronic band structures of semiconductors with cubic diamond and zinc blende symmetries. Our primary focus is on III–V semiconductors, with a particular emphasis on highly mismatched alloys. We begin our exploration with the six-band k⋅p model, which effectively captures interactions within the highest valence bands. Following that, we delve into the intricacies of the eight-band k⋅p model, which takes into account strain effects and modifications to energy dispersion. The Tutorial also introduces the band anticrossing model and its corresponding ten-band k⋅p models, specifically tailored for dilute nitride semiconductors. Furthermore, we extend our discussion to the valence band anticrossing model and its application to the 14-band k⋅p model in the context of dilute bismide materials. Additionally, we emphasize the significance of more comprehensive models, exemplified by the 30-band k⋅p model, for faithfully representing the entire Brillouin zone.
Polarization-selective optic-to-microwave conversion in a ferromagnetic insulator
Authors: Jeong Taek , Kim Dong Hwan , Kim Dongkyu , Ihn Yong Sup , Lee Su-Yong , Jo Yonggi , Kim Jihwan , Kim Zaeill , Kim Duk Y.
Published: December 2023

Quantum technologies utilize photons in a wide range of spectra, from microwave to visible light. Interactions between photons at different frequencies can be mediated by the collective excitation of spins in a ferromagnetic material. Here, we present optic-to-microwave conversions using the spin mode. In the conversion system, we observe that the generation of microwaves can be controlled by the polarization of the infrared input. Furthermore, we miniaturize the system and demonstrate conversion in a cryogenic environment, where microwave photons can be manipulated in the quantum regime. We show that the conversion efficiency scales with the intensity of the infrared illumination.
Stabilized coupled trajectory mixed quantum–classical algorithm with improved energy conservation: CTMQC-EDI
Authors: Dines Aaron , Ellis Matthew , Blumberger Jochen
Published: December 2023

Coupled trajectory mixed quantum–classical (CTMQC) dynamics is a rigorous approach to trajectory-based non-adiabatic dynamics, which has recently seen an improvement to energy conservation via the introduction of the CTMQC-E algorithm. Despite this, the method’s two key quantities distinguishing it from Ehrenfest dynamics, the modified Born–Oppenheimer momentum and the quantum momentum, require regularization procedures in certain circumstances. Such procedures in the latter can cause instabilities, leading to undesirable effects, such as energy drift and spurious population transfer, which is expected to become increasingly prevalent when the system gets larger as such events would happen more frequently. We propose a further modification to CTMQC-E, which includes a redefinition of the quantum momentum, CTMQC-EDI (double intercept), such that it has no formal divergences. We then show for Tully models I–III and the double arch model that the algorithm has greatly improved total energy conservation and negligible spurious population transfer at all times, in particular in regions of strong non-adiabatic coupling. CTMQC-EDI, therefore, shows promise as a numerically robust non-adiabatic dynamics technique that accounts for decoherence from first principles and that is scalable to large molecular systems and materials.
The burdensome logistics of data linkage in Australia – the example of a national registry for congenital heart disease
Authors: Lloyd Larissa K. , Nicholson Calum , Strange Geoff , Celermajer David S.
Published: December 2023

Objective Data linkage is a very powerful research tool in epidemiology, however, establishing this can be a lengthy and intensive process. This paper reports on the complex landscape of conducting data linkage projects in Australia. Methods We reviewed the processes, required documentation, and applications required to conduct multi-jurisdictional data linkage across Australia, in 2023. Results Obtaining the necessary approvals to conduct linkage will likely take nearly 2 years (estimated 730 days, including 605 days from initial submission to obtaining all ethical approvals and an estimated further 125 days for the issuance of unexpected additionally required approvals). Ethical review for linkage projects ranged from 51 to 128 days from submission to ethical approval, and applications consisted of 9–25 documents. Conclusions Major obstacles to conducting multi-jurisdictional data linkage included the complexity of the process, and substantial time and financial costs. The process was characterised by inefficiencies at several levels, reduplication, and a lack of any key accountabilities for timely performance of processes. Data linkage is an invaluable resource for epidemiological research. Further streamlining, establishing accountability, and greater collaboration between jurisdictions is needed to ensure data linkage is both accessible and feasible to researchers.
Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum Desf.) landraces and their potential for enhancing agro-physiological characteristics and stability performance in breeding programs
Authors: Mohammadi Reza , Cheghamirza Kianoosh , Geravandi Mahdi , Zarei Leila
Published: December 2023

Context Landraces are a potential source of genetic diversity and provide useful genetic resources to cope with the current and future challenges in crop breeding. Aims The main objectives of this study were to identify superior landraces with good levels of agro-physiological traits, and high mean yield and stability performance. Methods We evaluated a worldwide diversity panel of 196 durum wheat accessions originating from Iran and 17 other different countries along with four check varieties using an alpha-lattice design with two replications under drought and irrigated conditions in two cropping seasons. Key results The results showed that the variance due to genotype and environment for all measured traits; and genotype-by-environment interaction for grain yield were significant (P < 0.01). The genotype-by-traits (GT) biplot analysis revealed that the relationships of traits with grain yield were affected by environment, but some consistent correlations among studied traits were observed. Chlorophyll content, earliness and 1000-kernel weight positively correlated with mean yield under drought condition, whereas greenness index, plant height, days to heading and maturity positively correlated with yield under irrigated condition. The results verified that clustering pattern of durum diversity panel did not follow the grouping of accessions according to their geographic origins. Using the genotype plus genotype-by-environment (GGE) biplot method, accessions with high yield and stability performance were identified. Conclusions The results provide the possibility to select a subset of best accessions based on the traits studied, for further evaluations under drought and irrigated conditions. Implications The findings are useful for selective breeding for specific traits as well as for enhancing the genetic basis of the durum wheat breeding program.
Precise arrangement of metal atoms at the interface by a thermal printing strategy
Authors: Tian Lin , Gao Xiaoping , Wang Sicong , Chen Cai , Chen Min , Guo Wenxin , Wang Zhe , Tai Xiaolin , Han Xiao , Xu Chenxi , Ruan Yaner , Zhu Mengzhao , Xiong Can , Yao Tao , Zhou Huang , Lin Yue , Wu Yuen
Published: December 2023

The kinetics and pathway of most catalyzed reactions depend on the existence of interface, which makes the precise construction of highly active single-atom sites at the reaction interface a desirable goal. Herein, we propose a thermal printing strategy that not only arranges metal atoms at the silica and carbon layer interface but also stabilizes them by strong coordination. Just like the typesetting of Chinese characters on paper, this method relies on the controlled migration of movable nanoparticles between two contact substrates and the simultaneous emission of atoms from the nanoparticle surface at high temperatures. Observed by in situ transmission electron microscopy, a single Fe
3
O
4
nanoparticle migrates from the core of a SiO
2
sphere to the surface like a droplet at high temperatures, moves along the interface of SiO
2
and the coated carbon layer, and releases metal atoms until it disappears completely. These detached atoms are then in situ trapped by nitrogen and sulfur defects in the carbon layer to generate Fe single-atom sites, exhibiting excellent activity for oxygen reduction reaction. Also, sites' densities can be regulated by controlling the size of Fe
3
O
4
nanoparticle between the two surfaces. More importantly, this strategy is applicable to synthesize Mn, Co, Pt, Pd, Au single-atom sites, which provide a general route to arrange single-atom sites at the interface of different supports for various applications.
Guidance on minimum standards for canine-assisted psychotherapy in adolescent mental health: Delphi expert consensus on terminology, qualifications and training
Authors: Jones Melanie G. , Filia Kate , Rice Simon , Cotton Sue
Published: December 2023

Introduction:
Canine-assisted psychotherapy (CAP) is an emerging field that is largely unregulated and at times fragmented. Despite this, CAP shows promise as an innovative intervention for improving adolescent mental health. To ensure safe, ethical interventions incorporating dogs, providers need minimum standards to guide intervention development and subsequent research. Initially, standards should guide the preliminary steps required to prepare for and set up CAP interventions. These should include consensus agreement on the specific training and qualifications of providers, and training/assessment standards for canines to deliver such interventions. Also crucial is establishing clear expectations about treatment goals via use of clinically accurate terminology.

Methods:
Using Delphi methodology, experts in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) were recruited globally to complete questionnaires in an iterative process designed to establish consensus. Consensus was met when 80% or more experts agreed that an item was either ‘important’ or ‘essential’ and therefore included or ‘unimportant’ or ‘irrelevant’ and therefore excluded from the minimum standards required to develop a CAP group intervention for adolescents experiencing common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorder.

Results:
Over two rounds, consensus was reached to include 34 items and exclude none; 45 items remained unresolved. Standardized terminology was identified that clearly defined the type and scope of the service being provided, delineating psychotherapeutic treatments from informal dog-related interactions. To deliver the CAP intervention, providers must have formal qualifications and licensure/registration in mental health, training and supervision in AAT, and canine-specific training and experience. Important temperament characteristics of working dogs were identified including absence of aggression, and enjoyment working in CAP. Dogs should be formally assessed in obedience and AAT applications, in partnership with a bonded handler. Assessors of dog-handler teams should be independent and have expertise in both canine ethology and AAT.

Discussion:
These results reinforce the importance of accurate and standardized terminology, and the need for further community education on the role of ‘therapy’ and ‘therapy dogs’. Consensus on the essential content for provider training was not achieved, highlighting the diversity of practice globally. Nevertheless, there was recognition of the need for breadth and depth of knowledge across the domains of mental health, AAT, canine training, and handling dogs for AAT applications. Dogs working independently of a bonded handler were not supported, nor were mental health providers working with an ‘assessed’ dog in the absence of AAT and CAP training. Implications for clinical practice are explored.
Long-distance spin communication via ambipolar conductor with electron–hole spin exchange interaction
Authors: Koinuma Yukihiro , Hasegawa Shigehiko , Sakai Masamichi
Published: December 2023

Spin accumulation in a nonmagnetic (N) metal embedded between two ferromagnetic metals is still crucial in current spintronics because long-distance spin communication via the N metal can make all-spin logic (ASL) devices feasible. Graphene is almost the only N-region material suitable for ASL devices because its low intrinsic spin–orbit coupling results in a spin diffusion length,

ℓ

N

, of over 30 µm at room temperature, but long-distance spin communication beyond

ℓ

N

remains difficult. The present study proposes a way to remove the restriction caused by

ℓ

N

. In our proposal, an ambipolar conductor, in which electron and hole contribute to electronic conduction and interact with each other, is used for the N-region in a double-heterojunction magnetic structure. When the electron–hole interaction is accompanied by spin exchange, long-distance spin communication characteristic is predicted. Approximately 70 types of ambipolar conductors, including elemental metals and metal alloys, are available. Hence, this material variation may open a new spintronics field, ambipolar spintronics, which may realize operation mechanisms that cannot be achieved using conventional single-band metals. Finally, we present a comprehensive argument on the interface-mediated coupling mechanism between spins and charges, which is the basis of the generation of the spin-coupled interface voltage.
Diffusion model and vision transformer for intelligent fault diagnosis under small samples
Authors: Cen Jian , Si Weiwei , Liu Xi , Zhao Bichuang , Xu Chenhua , Liu Shan , Xin Yanli
Published: December 2023

The existing deep learning models can achieve a high level of fault diagnosis accuracy in the case of a large number of samples. However, in actual production, data is often limited due to the difficulty of data collection and labeling. For small sample fault diagnosis, a fault diagnosis method called diffusion model-overlapping-patch vision transformer (DM-OVT) is proposed in this paper. The method adds coordinate attention to the DM, so that it can consider both channel information and spatial information. In the patch embedding part of Vision Transformer, features are first extracted using convolutional layers, and then overlapping patch divisions are used to improve the correlation between each patch. To be specific, DM-OVT first uses short-time Fourier transform to convert the one-dimensional signals into the time–frequency maps. And then inputs them into the DM to generate different classes of fault data according to labels. Finally, OVT is used to classify the expanded data. The effectiveness of the proposed method was tested on data sets from laboratory multistage centrifugal fans and Case Western Reserve University, and the highest accuracy was achieved in the comparison experiments.
Development of a piezoelectric hybrid-driven nanopositioner using combined leaf-spring-shaped and C-shaped flexure hinge mechanism
Authors: Gu Sen
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a novel piezoelectric hybrid-driven nanopositioner using combined leaf-spring-shaped and C-shaped flexure hinge mechanism. The piezoelectric hybrid-driven nanopositioner combines the piezoelectric stick-slip-driven nanopositioner and piezoelectric scanner in a single and compact device. This advance can decrease the size of nanoscratch-AFM hybrid system and make nanoscratch-AFM hybrid system compatible with the limited space of SEM vacuum chamber. A flexure hinge combining leaf-spring-shaped mechanism and C-shaped mechanism is developed to improve the load capability of piezoelectric stick-slip-driven nanopositioner. Unlike existing methods of improving load-capability by decreasing kinetic friction force value, the proposed flexure hinge employs C-shaped structure to decrease the retraction motion time of kinetic friction force, which can achieve high-load and compact structure simultaneously. Finite element analysis is implemented to optimize the thickness of the leaf-spring-shaped mechanism and diameter of the C-shaped mechanism. A prototype is fabricated and its experimental system is established. The mechanical output experiments show that the piezoelectric scanner achieved a maximum travel range of 4.9 μm, and piezoelectric stick-slip-driven nanopositionerm achieves a maximum load of 2 Kg. Experimental results of the nanoscratch-AFM hybrid system inside a standard SEM HITACHI SU5000 demonstrate that the proposed piezoelectric hybrid-driven nanopositioner is capable of nanoscratch positioning.
Numerical investigation on nonautonomous optical rogue waves and Modulation Instability analysis for a nonautonomous system
Authors: Saravana Veni S , Mani Rajan M S , Bertrand Tabi Conrad , Crépin Kofané Timoléon
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we report existence of optical rogue waves in the focussing non—autonomous nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) through numerical studies of modulation instability (MI). The dynamics of non-autonomous rogue waves discussed and its associated modulation instability through linear stability analysis taken place followed by pulse splitting behaviour due to non—autonomous coefficient. We prove that the excitation of rogue waves with certain conditions in the base band modulation instability regime. The above analysis of complex dynamics in terms of MI processes has allowed to experiments to excite the nonlinear superposition of rogue wave solutions using a modulated plane wave optical field injected into optical fiber which offer the evidence for excitation of nonautonomous rogue waves in an inhomogeneous nonlinear medium. It is identified from the results frequency modulation on a wavefield induces modulation instability as a result of rogue waves. We analyze the dependence of parameters coefficient of group velocity dispersion(GVD) and nonlinearity (α(z)) and non—autonomous coefficient (β(z)) and the instability of rogue waves. Our work suggests that the presence of non-autonomous coefficients can have a significant impact on the emergence of extreme events, particularly in relation to their self—steepening nature.
Strong pressure dependence of the valence band maximum in tetragonal ZrO2
Authors: Forti Mariano D , Gargano Pablo H , Alonso Paula R , Rubiolo Gerardo H
Published: December 2023

ZrO2 is a semiconductor compound widely used in several areas such as part of electronic devices, energy related materials, and catalysis due to its attractive electronic characteristics. In this work we explore its electronic properties in the surroundings of the energy gap. In particular, we show that the valence band maximum (VBM) could be strongly modulated with pressure. Using the Generalized Gradient Approximation within the Density Functional Theory we find that under compression the VBM moves, in reciprocal space, from a non-special point T

Σ
= (
τ
,
τ
, 0), with τ ≈ 0.23 in equilibrium, to A = (1/2, 1/2, 1/2) then to N
V
which moves with increasing pressure in the A → M line, and finally to M = (1/2, 1/2, 0). These transitions are studied by providing an approximation to the carrier effective mass components at the VBM and their variations with pressure, as well as the variations of the band gap. Since ZrO2 is very often used in situations under stress, this effect could strongly influence the evolution of the band gap, the electronic conductivity, and therefore could also be important for certain applications in electronics and catalysis.
Dynamics of a particle in the generalised Ellis-Bronnikov wormhole on the rotating Archimede’s spiral
Authors: Giorgadze N , Osmanov Z N
Published: December 2023

A particle moving on curved magnetic field lines in the wormhole metrics is considered. The dynamics of a single particle is studied on a co-rotating parameterized magnetic field line. Being interested in the force-free dynamics we choose the rotating Archimedes’ spiral embedded in the generalized Ellis-Bronnikov metrics. By analysing the phase space, we explore how the physical parameters affect the motion of the particle and it is shown that the particles may reach the force free regime, eventually escaping the wormhole.
Feasibility of singularity avoidance for a collapsing object due to a scalar field
Authors: Bittencourt Eduardo , Cesar Alan G. , Pereira Jonas P.
Published: December 2023

We study the problem of the gravitational collapse of an object as seen by an external
observer. We assume that the resultant spacetime is a match of an external Vaidya spacetime with
an interior Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker (FRLW) spacetime of any spatial curvature and
with a scalar field both minimally and non-minimally coupled to the metric. With the goal of
studying a contracting (collapsing) object, for the initial moment of observation we take that its
energy density and pressure are positive, that there are no trapping surfaces, and that the null
energy condition (NEC) and the strong energy condition (SEC) are fulfilled. We show that there are
many cases where singularities could be avoided for both the minimal and non-minimal couplings,
although the contexts for so are very different in both cases. For the minimal coupling, the
avoidance of singularities could happen either through evaporation or altogether, triggered by a
violation of the SEC for a period of time. For the non-minimal coupling, the complete singularity
avoidance happens only if evaporation takes place, and a temporary violation of the SEC does not
thwart the formation of singularities. The above results show the relevance of the global (the
whole spacetime) validity of energy conditions for the singularity theorems to be applicable;
otherwise, the fate of a collapsing star is not known a priori. At the same time, the surface
behavior of a collapsing body offers partial diagnostics of what happens in the inaccessible regions of spacetime to external observers. Our analyses suggest that a bounce behavior of the
surface of the initially collapsing object is a fingerprint of the SEC violation in its interior,
and that could be due to the existence of scalar fields there.
Ultrafast photoemission electron microscopy: A multidimensional probe of nonequilibrium physics
Authors: Dai 戴 Yanan 亚南
Published: December 2023

Exploring the realms of physics that extend beyond thermal equilibrium has emerged as a crucial branch of condensed matter physics research. It aims to unravel the intricate processes involving the excitations, interactions, and annihilations of quasi- and many-body particles, and ultimately to achieve the manipulation and engineering of exotic non-equilibrium quantum phases on the ultrasmall and ultrafast spatiotemporal scales. Given the inherent complexities arising from many-body dynamics, it therefore seeks a technique that has efficient and diverse detection degrees of freedom to study the underlying physics. By combining high-power femtosecond lasers with real- or momentum-space photoemission electron microscopy (PEEM), imaging excited state phenomena from multiple perspectives, including time, real space, energy, momentum, and spin, can be conveniently achieved, making it a unique technique in studying physics out of equilibrium. In this context, we overview the working principle and technical advances of the PEEM apparatus and the related laser systems, and survey key excited-state phenomena probed through this surface-sensitive methodology, including the ultrafast dynamics of electrons, excitons, plasmons, spins, etc., in materials ranging from bulk and nano-structured metals and semiconductors to low-dimensional quantum materials. Through this review, one can further envision that time-resolved PEEM will open new avenues for investigating a variety of classical and quantum phenomena in a multidimensional parameter space, offering unprecedented and comprehensive insights into important questions in the field of condensed matter physics.
Electrospinography for non-invasively recording spinal sensorimotor networks in humans
Authors: Steele Alexander G , Faraji Amir H , Contreras-Vidal Jose L
Published: December 2023

Objective. Currently, few non-invasive measures exist for directly measuring spinal sensorimotor networks. Electrospinography (ESG) is one non-invasive method but is primarily used to measure evoked responses or for monitoring the spinal cord during surgery. Our objectives were to evaluate the feasibility of ESG to measure spinal sensorimotor networks by determining spatiotemporal and functional connectivity changes during single-joint movements at the spinal and cortical levels. Approach. We synchronously recorded electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography, and ESG in ten neurologically intact adults while performing one of three lower-limb tasks (no movement, plantar-flexion and knee flexion) in the prone position. A multi-pronged approach was applied for removing artifacts using

H
∞

filtering, artifact subspace reconstruction and independent component (IC) analysis. Next, data were segmented by task and ICs of EEG were clustered across participants. Within-participant analysis of ICs and ESG data was conducted, and ESG was characterized in the time and frequency domains. Generalized partial directed coherence analysis was performed within ICs and between ICs and ESG data by participant and task. Results. K-means clustering resulted in five clusters of ICs at Brodmann areas (BAs) 9, BA 8, BA 39, BA 4, and BA 22. Areas associated with motor planning, working memory, visual processing, movement, and attention, respectively. Time-frequency analysis of ESG data found localized changes during movement execution when compared to no movement. Lastly, we found bi-directional changes in functional connectivity (p < 0.05, adjusted for multiple comparisons) within IC’s and between IC’s and ESG sensors during movement when compared to the no movement condition. Significance. To our knowledge this is the first report using high density ESG for characterizing single joint lower limb movements. Our findings provide support that ESG contains information about efferent and afferent signaling in neurologically intact adults and suggests that we can utilize ESG to directly study the spinal cord.
The role of vowel and consonant onsets in neural tracking of natural speech
Authors: Jalilpour Monesi Mohammad , Vanthornhout Jonas , Francart Tom , Van hamme Hugo
Published: December 2023

Objective. To investigate how the auditory system processes natural speech, models have been created to relate the electroencephalography (EEG) signal of a person listening to speech to various representations of the speech. Mainly the speech envelope has been used, but also phonetic representations. We investigated to which degree of granularity phonetic representations can be related to the EEG signal. Approach. We used recorded EEG signals from 105 subjects while they listened to fairy tale stories. We utilized speech representations, including onset of any phone, vowel–consonant onsets, broad phonetic class (BPC) onsets, and narrow phonetic class onsets, and related them to EEG using forward modeling and match–mismatch tasks. In forward modeling, we used a linear model to predict EEG from speech representations. In the match–mismatch task, we trained a long short term memory based model to determine which of two candidate speech segments matches with a given EEG segment. Main results. Our results show that vowel–consonant onsets outperform onsets of any phone in both tasks, which suggests that neural tracking of the vowel vs. consonant exists in the EEG to some degree. We also observed that vowel (syllable nucleus) onsets exhibit a more consistent representation in EEG compared to syllable onsets. Significance. Finally, our findings suggest that neural tracking previously thought to be associated with BPCs might actually originate from vowel–consonant onsets rather than the differentiation between different phonetic classes.
First observation of beta-induced Alfvén eigenmode inside the edge magnetic island on the J-TEXT tokamak
Authors: Yang J. , Liang Y. , Wang N.C. , Shi P. , Zhou S. , Chen Z.P. , Jiang Z.H. , Mao F.Y. , Hua J.K. , Li C.K. , Yang Q.H. , Li D. , Drews P. , Knieps A. , Wang E. , Xu S. , Xiang H.M. , Cai J.Q. , Huang J. , Gao Y.C. , Liu J.W. , Luo Y. , Liao L. , Yang Y.T. , Xie W. , Chen Z.Y. , Ding Y.H. ,   the J-TEXT Team
Published: December 2023

Experiments conducted on the J-TEXT tokamak have provided the first evidence that the Beta-induced Alfvén Eigenmode (BAE) is localized inside the isolated helical flux tube of its edge m/n = 3/1 magnetic island. The observations show that the BAE forms a standing wave inside the magnetic island, with its nodes located at the X- and O-points of the magnetic island. When the island is cut open by contact with the limiter plates, the BAE is found to remain inside the remnant closed island in the Scrape-Off Layer, but its amplitude decreases as the width of the remnant island becomes smaller.
Shift of soil moisture-temperature coupling exacerbated 2022 compound hot-dry event in eastern China
Authors: Ni Yueyang , Qiu Bo , Miao Xin , Li Lingfeng , Chen Jiuyi , Tian Xiaohui , Zhao Siwen , Guo Weidong
Published: December 2023

Compound hot-dry events (CHDEs) are among the deadliest climate hazards and are occurring with increasing frequency under global warming. The Yangtze River Basin in China experienced a record-breaking CHDE in the summer of 2022, causing severe damage to human societies and ecosystems. Recent studies have emphasized the role of atmospheric circulation anomalies in driving this event. However, the contribution of land–atmosphere feedback to the development of this event remains unclear. Here, we investigated the impacts of soil moisture-temperature coupling on the development of this concurrent heatwave and drought. We showed that large amounts of surface net radiation were partitioned to sensible heat instead of latent heat as the soil moisture-temperature coupling pattern shifted from energy-limited to water-limited under low soil moisture conditions, forming positive land–atmosphere feedback and leading to unprecedented hot extremes in August. The spatial heterogeneity of hot extremes was also largely modulated by the land–atmosphere coupling strength. Furthermore, enhanced land–atmosphere feedback has played an important role in intensifying CHDEs in this traditional humid region. This study improves the understanding of the development of CHDEs from three aspects, including timing, intensity, and spatial distribution, and enables more effective early warning of CHDEs.
Measurement of irregular particle size from the reconstructed shape images
Authors: Sun Jinlu , Qiu Yue , Zhang Cheng , Wu Yuhang , Li Yuqiang , Miao Changyun
Published: December 2023

A method for measuring the size of irregular particles is proposed. The smallest bounding rectangular box of the particle image can be acquired after obtaining interferometric out-of-focus image by using interferometric particle imaging technology and reconstructing particle shape through convolutional neural network. The number of image pixels of the particle can be obtained from the smallest bounding rectangular box. A new pixel size is defined by using the box counting method based on the analysis of the relationship between particle size and pixel size. The width and height of the particles are then obtained. The maximum relative errors in width and height are 1.47% and 1.16%, respectively. The results indicate that the proposed method can provide a research basis for the realization of three-dimensional size measurement of particles.
Electro-oxidation of pyrene on glassy carbon electrode modified with fMWCNTs/CuO nanocomposite
Authors: Adesanya Funmilola A , Fayemi Omolola E
Published: December 2023

The electrochemical oxidation of pyrene, a well-known polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, was investigated using a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with nanocomposite of copper oxide nanoparticles incorporated functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (fMWCNTs). The catalytic copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) synthesized through a chemical co-precipitation method was combined with the highly electrically conductive functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes using a simple and efficient method. Several analytical techniques were employed in characterizing the nanomaterials namely: the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), and the ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, to validate the authenticity of the synthesis. The electrochemical behaviour of the proposed electrode was investigated in 10 mM [Fe(CN)6]3-/4- via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV), revealing the highest current response and lowest charge transfer resistance at the hybrid nanocomposite modified electrode (GCE/fMWCNTs/CuO NPs) in comparison with the other electrodes studied in this work (GCE, GCE/CuO NPs, and GCE/fMWCNTs. The electrocatalytic efficacy of the electrodes towards pyrene oxidation was also evaluated, with a similarly outstanding increment in the oxidation peak current response and highly reduced resistance to charge transfer at the nanocomposite-modified glassy carbon electrode. This enhanced electrocatalytic activity facilitated the transport of electrons between the pyrene molecules and the nanocomposite-modified electrode which is attributable to the synergy between the functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes and the copper oxide nanoparticles. The low detection limit of 1.30 μM within the linear range (1.2–23.1 μM) demonstrated by the sensor indicates its high sensitivity and potential for environmental based analytical applications such as pyrene detection.
Random crystal orientation and tensile strength of nanocrystalline dumbbell-shaped copper thick films electrodeposited from acidic aqueous solutions containing polyethylene glycol
Authors: Kawakami Reina , Saeki Ryusei , Ohgai Takeshi
Published: December 2023

Nanocrystalline thick copper films with the thickness of ∼250 μm were electrochemically synthesized from an acidic aqueous solution containing polyethylene glycol (PEG) with the average molecular weight of 3,000 to investigate the preferential crystal orientation and mechanical properties such as microhardness and tensile strength. By addition of PEG to the electrolytic bath, the cathode potential was shifted to a less noble direction during the electrodeposition and the average crystallite size of electrodeposited copper thick films was decreased. The copper thick films electrodeposited from the solution without PEG exhibited a preferentially orientation in (220) texture while that obtained from the solution containing PEG was composed of nanocrystals with random crystal orientation that containing (111) and (200) textures. The micro-Vickers hardness, tensile strength, and elongation of the electrodeposited copper thick films reached up to 133 HV, 234 MPa, and 13.1%, respectively. These improvements in mechanical properties can be explained by the grain refinement effect and the random crystal orientation effect.
Development of a low-cost, compact, wireless, 16 - channel biopotential data acquisition, signal conditioning and arbitrary waveform stimulator
Authors: Halder Rajat Suvra , Basumatary Bijit , Sahani Ashish
Published: December 2023

The health and fitness of the human body rely heavily on physiological parameters. These parameters can be measured using various tools such as ECG, EMG, EEG, EOG, among others, to obtain real-time physiological data. Analysing the bio-signals obtained from these measurements can provide valuable information that can be used to improve health-care in terms of observation, diagnosis, and treatment. In bio-signal pattern recognition applications, more channels provide multiple information simultaneously. Different biosignal acquisition devices are available in the market, most of which are designed for specific signals like ECG, EMG, EEG etc The gain of the amplifiers and frequency of the filters are designed as per the targeted signals; due to which one device cannot be used for other signals. Also, most of the systems are wired system which is not comfortable for animal studies. In this paper, a low-cost, compact, wireless, 16 channel biopotential data acquisition system with integrated electrical stimulator is designed and implemented. There are several novel and flexible design approaches were incorporated in the proposed design like (1) It has user selectable digital filter in each channel based on the signal frequencies like ECG, EMG, EEG, EOG. The same system will be used to acquire different signals simultaneously. (2) It has variable gain with a configurable analog bandpass filter. (3) It can acquire signals from 4 patients simultaneously. (4) The system is capable to acquire signal from both two-electrode as well as three-electrode configurations. (5) It has integrated stimulator with trapezoidal, charge-balanced, biphasic stimulus output with near zero DC level and user selectable pulse duration or frequency of the stimulus. The developed system has the ability to acquire and transmit data wirelessly in real-time at a high transfer rate. To validate the performance of the system, tests were conducted on the acquired signals using a simulator.
Estimating the grain size of microgranular material using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy combined with machine learning algorithms
Authors: ZHANG 张 Zhao 朝 , LI 李 Yaju 亚举 , YANG 杨 Guanghui 光辉 , ZENG 曾 Qiang 强 , LI 李 Xiaolong 小龙 , CHEN 陈 Liangwen 良文 , QIAN 钱 Dongbin 东斌 , SUN 孙 Duixiong 对兄 , SU 苏 Maogen 茂根 , YANG 杨 Lei 磊 , ZHANG 张 Shaofeng 少锋 , MA 马 Xinwen 新文
Published: December 2023

Recent work has validated a new method for estimating the grain size of microgranular materials in the range of tens to hundreds of micrometers using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). In this situation, a piecewise univariate model must be constructed to estimate grain size due to the complex dependence of the plasma formation environment on grain size. In the present work, we tentatively construct a unified calibration model suitable for LIBS-based estimation of those grain sizes. Specifically, two unified multivariate calibration models are constructed based on back-propagation neural network (BPNN) algorithms using feature selection strategies with and without considering prior information. By detailed analysis of the performances of the two multivariate models, it was found that a unified calibration model can be successfully constructed based on BPNN algorithms for estimating the grain size in the range of tens to hundreds of micrometers. It was also found that the model constructed with a prior-guided feature selection strategy had better prediction performance. This study has practical significance in developing the technology for material analysis using LIBS, especially when the LIBS signal exhibits a complex dependence on the material parameter to be estimated.
Physicist Narges Mohammadi awarded Nobel Peace Prize
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: December 2023

Physicist Narges Mohammadi awarded Nobel Peace Prize.
CERN opens its new Science Gateway outreach centre
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: December 2023

CERN has opened the doors to its new CHF100m (£90m) science education and outreach centre – the Science Gateway, whose design is inspired by the tubular structure of the CERN’s accelerator complex.
Superconductivity ‘damaged’ by retractions
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: December 2023

Researchers in high-temperature superconductivity are looking to move on from retractions and allegations of scientific misconduct that have hampered the field, as Michael Banks reports.
Photonic crystals formed over time in ancient Roman glass
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: December 2023

Researchers have found that distinctive iridescent patina on an ancient Roman glass fragment stems from a photonic crystal structure that formed naturally within the material over time.
Clara Barker takes up IOP diversity and inclusion role
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: December 2023

The materials scientist Clara Barker from the University of Oxford has been appointed inclusion and diversity representative at the Institute of Physics.
Thermo-tie-namics
Authors: Nettleton David
Published: December 2023

A question about why clothes in a washing machine always end up inside a duvet cover.
The high price of excellence
Authors: Chapman Emma
Published: December 2023

Emma Chapman reviews Fascination of Science: 60 Encounters with Pioneering Researchers of Our Time by Herlinde Koelbl (translated by Lois Hoyal).
Size matters
Authors: Tierney Tom
Published: December 2023

Tom Tierney reviews Size: How It Explains the World by Vaclav Smil.
Your ticket to the stars
Authors: Tohill Clár-Bríd
Published: December 2023

Clár-Bríd Tohill reviews Under Alien Skies: a Sightseer’s Guide to the Universe by Philip Plait.
Ask me anything: Kim Nygård
Authors: McEntee Joe
Published: December 2023

Kim Nygård manages the ForMAX beamline at Sweden’s MAX IV synchrotron laboratory in Lund, where his team helps scientists from academia and industry to develop sustainable products based on materials from the forest.