bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical methods for unraveling inter-particle potentials in colloidal suspensions: A comparative study for two-dimensional suspensions
Authors: Rees-Zimmerman Clare R. , Martín-Roca José , Evans David , Miller Mark A. , Aarts Dirk G. A. L. , Valeriani Chantal
Published: February 2025

We compare three model-free numerical methods for inverting structural data to obtain interaction potentials, namely, iterative Boltzmann inversion (IBI), test-particle insertion (TPI), and a machine-learning (ML) approach called ActiveNet. Three archetypal models of two-dimensional colloidal systems are used as test cases: Weeks–Chandler–Anderson short-ranged repulsion, the Lennard-Jones potential, and a repulsive shoulder interaction with two length scales. Additionally, data on an experimental suspension of colloidal spheres are acquired by optical microscopy and used to test the inversion methods. The methods have different merits. IBI is the only choice when the radial distribution function is known but particle coordinates are unavailable. TPI requires snapshots with particle positions and can extract both pair- and higher-body potentials without the need for simulation. The ML approach can only be used when particles can be tracked in time and it returns the force rather than the potential. However, it can unravel pair interactions from any one-body forces (such as drag or propulsion) and does not rely on equilibrium distributions for its derivation. Our results may serve as a guide when a numerical method is needed for application to experimental data and as a reference for further development of the methodology itself.
The Gibbs method extended to nanothermodynamics and exemplified by evaluations of the surface, line, and point excess energies for icosahedral metal nanoclusters
Authors: Samsonov V. M. , Vasilyev S. A. , Talyzin I. V. , Nebyvalova K. K. , Puytov V. V. , Karakeyan I. V.
Published: February 2025

The Gibbs method of surface excesses was extended to nanosized objects and exemplified by evaluations of the specific (per unit area) surface excess energies of Ih nanoclusters of fcc metals (Ag, Au, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Pt), the specific (per unit length) line energies of edges of Ih nanoclusters, and excess point energies of their vertices. In particular, for this purpose, an original interpretation of the Gibbs equimolecular surface concept has been employed. To perform all the above-mentioned evaluations, the extended Gibbs method was combined with the nearest neighbor interaction model. The results of our evaluations of the specific surface energy agree with the experimental values of the specific surface energy for corresponding solid bulk fcc metals. Then, we have found that the values of the specific excess line energy of the Ih nanocluster edges are positive and fall in order of magnitude within the range of 10−10 to 10−9 J/m, which agrees with the available evaluations for other types of linear boundaries. The vertex point energy was found to be on the order of 10−20 J and positive as well. A hypothesis is put forward that the positivity of the excess energies of the edges and vertices results in their instability, i.e., in a trend for the formation of a more rounded shape of polyhedral nanoparticles, especially in the vicinity of their melting temperatures. In addition, some molecular dynamics results on Ih metal nanoclusters are discussed. For Au and Pt Ih nanoclusters, the theoretically calculated values of the specific surface energy are compared with those obtained by combining the Gibbs method with our molecular dynamics results on the size dependence of the potential term into the specific (per atom) internal energy of Ih nanoparticles.
Integrative taxonomy of the cycad-associated weevils of the Tranes group, with a revision of Tranes Schoenherr, a key to all taxa and an assessment of host specificity in the group (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Molytinae)
Authors: Hsiao Yun , Oberprieler Rolf G.
Published: February 2025

Australia is a main centre of diversity for extant cycads (Cycadophyta), harbouring 4 genera and 85 named species and subspecies. Three cycad genera, Bowenia, Lepidozamia and Macrozamia, serve as hosts for four weevil genera of the Tranes group, Tranes Schoenherr, Miltotranes Zimmerman, Demyrsus Pascoe and Siraton Hustache. Several morphologically based taxonomic studies have been undertaken on some of these genera recently, but their classification, diversity and species delineations have not been evaluated using an integrative taxonomic approach. In the present study, we combine morphological characters and mitochondrial DNA data to assess the taxonomic status of taxa in this group. Different methods of molecular species delimitation, especially distance-based ones, generally provide strong support for taxon concepts derived from morphological characteristics, demonstrating that these are well able to delineate natural species and assess taxonomic diversity in this group of weevils. Exceptions are that molecular analyses indicate Siraton internatus (Pascoe) to be more closely related to Demyrsus than to S. roei (Boheman), rendering Siraton a paraphyletic taxon, and a genetically distinct but morphologically cryptic species of Miltotranes to occur south of Cairns. A key to all genera and species of the Tranes group is presented. The genus Tranes and its four previously named species are redescribed and six species are newly described, T. chadwicki sp. nov., T. forsteri sp. nov., T. kgariensis sp. nov., T. occidentalis sp. nov., T. terryae sp. nov. and T. tinctipennis sp. nov., and a lectotype is designated for the name Tranes insignipes Lea, 1929. The salient characters and distribution ranges of all Tranes species are illustrated, and their host specificities are assessed. ZooBank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:45DE986E-A8B3-4247-B056-DF3126D4B31D
Simulating pearl millet growth and yield with DSSAT-CERES-millet model: Evaluating climate-smart practices for uptake across diverse environments in Senegal
Authors: Zagre Inoussa , Worou Omonlola N. , Akinseye Folorunso M. , Joseph Jacob E. , Faye Aliou , Kone Mama , Whitbread Anthony M.
Published: February 2025

Background:
Evaluating crop suitability across diverse agro-climatic zones is crucial for mitigating risks to agricultural yield under climate change, particularly for pearl millet production in Senegal. To facilitate informed tactical or strategic decision making, aimed at enhancing productivity, a modeling approach is essential for comprehending climate impacts and formulating effective adaptation strategies.
Methods:
The DSSAT model’s capability to simulate four pearl millet cultivars (Souna-3, SL 28, SL 423, Thialack-2) under varying plant populations and micro-dosing fertilization strategies in diverse environments is evaluated in this study. The research also examines the risk associated with management practices on millet productivity in the context of climate variability and changing conditions for the period 1990–2020. To achieve these objectives, the CERES-millet model was calibrated using field data from 2022 to 2023 growing seasons for the four cultivars and subsequently validated with independent datasets from on-farm demonstrations in Senegal under various organo-mineral fertilizer applications for the same seasons.
Results:
The CERES-Millet model demonstrated high accuracy, simulating key growth stages and yield components across various millet cultivars and environments. For anthesis and physiological maturity, the model achieved low RMSE values (3–5 days and 2–4 days) and acceptable d-index ranges (from 0.6 to 0.9), indicating reliable predictions of these critical developmental milestones. The model’s performance extended to accurately simulating leaf area index (LAI), grain yield, and above-ground biomass, with specific RMSE values reported for different cultivars such as Souna 3 (RMSE of 443 kg ha
−1
for grain yield and 747 kg ha
−1
for AGB), Thialack-2 estimated RMSE of 389 kg ha
−1
for grain yield and 208 kg ha
−1
for AGB. SL 28 recorded RMSE of 257 kg ha
−1
for grain yield and 560 kg ha
−1
for AGB, while SL 423 had RMSE of 698 kg ha
−1
for grain and 640 kg ha
−1
for AGB. A long-term 31-year seasonal simulation revealed that dual-purpose varieties consistently outperformed Souna 3 in terms of yield, despite significant inter-annual variability.
Conclusion:
Combining these varieties with micro-dosing fertilizer applications led to higher yield thresholds. Notably, micro-dosing fertilizer level 3 (3g/hill of NPK, 2g/hill of Urea, and 50g/hill of cow manure) demonstrated consistent stability, making it a cost-effective approach to mitigate yield variability in semi-arid regions of Senegal. Long-term simulations highlighted the promising potential of combining dual-purpose varieties with optimized micro-dosing strategies to enhance yield stability and resilience. This approach offers a practical method for mitigating the effects of climate variability in Senegal and similar environmental contexts.
Physiological, biochemical and genetic studies reveal differing responses of West Africa rice genotypes under induced upland field and greenhouse drought stresses
Authors: Adjah Kossi Lorimpo , Asante Maxwell Darko , Toure Aboubacar , Aziadekey Mawuli , Frei Michael , Wu Linbo , Wairich Andriele , Yadav Shailesh , Gamenyah Daniel Dzorkpe , Vaziritabar Yavar
Published: February 2025

Background
: Drought is the single most important factor limiting rainfed upland rice production in Africa and is aggravated by climate change leading to a serious food security threat in the continent. This study aimed to assess the impact of drought stress on morpho-physiological and biochemical traits among rice genotypes and quantify the genetic variability among the genotypes under both reproductive drought stress (RS) and non-stress (NS) conditions. Further, this study aimed to select drought-tolerant genotypes and identify traits to monitor during screening for drought under field and greenhouse conditions.
Methods
: To achieve these objectives, we first screened 100 genotypes under upland reproductive stage drought field conditions as well as non-stress conditions using α-lattice design with three replications. Out of the 100, we selected 14 genotypes based on yield and yield-related traits under both conditions (RS and NS) for further screening under drought in the greenhouse condition using completely randomized block design (RCBD) with three replicates. Data on yield-related traits, relative water content (RWC), malondialdehyde (MDA), proline and genetic diversity parameters were collected.
Results
: Under the field screening, for all the investigated traits, a general reduction was observed among the genotypes under drought stress compared to non-stress conditions. Traits such as spikelet fertility (SFP), grain yield per plant (GYP), hundred grain weight (HGW), leaf rolling score, and leaf drying score recorded high broad-sense heritability (>60%) combined with high genetic advance (>20%) implying that selection could be rewarding for these traits under drought stress. Grain yield was positively associated with most yield-related traits under both water regimes. Under the greenhouse screening, RWC of all genotypes was reduced by >14%, except G11 (1.58%), G99 (8.43%), and G100 (5.43%), while increased MDA of >45% for all genotypes was observed, except G11 (25.15%), G99 (39.37%), and G100 (43.65%) under drought.
Conclusions
: Based on the correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and the multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI) using relative trait values, grain yield, spikelet fertility, grain length, MDA and RWC are recommended in descending order for monitoring during screening for drought tolerance. Overall, G60, G100, G99, and G11 were selected in chronological order as genotypes with enhanced tolerance to drought. Among these genotypes, G60 (Viwornor short) is glaberrima ecotype, while G100 (UPLR-17), G99 (APO), and G11 (CRI-Enapa) are indica ecotypes.
Randomized block coordinate descent method for linear ill-posed problems
Authors: Jin Qinian , Liu Duo
Published: February 2025

Consider the linear ill-posed problems of the form

∑

i
=
1

b

A
i

x
i

=
y

, where, for each i, Ai
is a bounded linear operator between two Hilbert spaces Xi
and

Y

. When b is huge, solving the problem by an iterative method using the full gradient at each iteration step is both time-consuming and memory insufficient. Although randomized block coordinate descent (RBCD) method has been shown to be an efficient method for well-posed large-scale optimization problems with a small amount of memory, there still lacks a convergence analysis on the RBCD method for solving ill-posed problems. In this paper, we investigate the convergence property of the RBCD method with noisy data under either a priori or a posteriori stopping rules. We prove that the RBCD method combined with an a priori stopping rule yields a sequence that converges weakly to a solution of the problem almost surely. We also consider the early stopping of the RBCD method and demonstrate that the discrepancy principle can terminate the iteration after finite many steps almost surely. For a class of ill-posed problems with special tensor product form, we obtain strong convergence results on the RBCD method. Furthermore, we consider incorporating the convex regularization terms into the RBCD method to enhance the detection of solution features. To illustrate the theory and the performance of the method, numerical simulations from the imaging modalities in computed tomography and compressive temporal imaging are reported.
A high Q factor MEMS accelerometer with quasi-zero effective stiffness
Authors: Ma Zhipeng , Dong Leinuo , Ye Ziyi , Jin Yiming , Li Mingkang , Qian Xinyu , Zheng Xudong , Jin Zhonghe
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a high-performance MEMS accelerometer with ultralow noise and wide bandwidth based on a force control of a mechanical system with high quality-factor (Q factor) and quasi-zero effective stiffness. Both dynamic model and noise model of the proposed accelerometer were developed. Based on the dynamic model, a new damping controller and a phase compensation controller are proposed to improve the bandwidth for the high Q factor accelerometers. The noise model is verified experimentally, indicating that the readout circuit noise and mechanical thermal noise are greatly reduced by the decrease of the effective stiffness and air damping, respectively. The accelerometer with phase compensation controller exhibits a linear relationship between the noise power and the bandwidth, which can be tuned by adjusting the controller parameters. Finally, the bandwidth of ranging from 130 to 381 Hz and the base noise of ranging from 140 ng √Hz−1 to 860 ng √Hz−1 are achieved for the proposed accelerometer.
Mapping conservative Fokker–Planck entropy in neural systems
Authors: Fagerholm Erik D , Scott Gregory , Leech Robert , Turkheimer Federico E , Friston Karl J , Brázdil Milan
Published: February 2025

Mapping the flow of information through the networks of the brain remains one of the most important challenges in computational neuroscience. In certain cases, this flow can be approximated by considering just two contributing factors—a predictable drift and a randomized diffusion. We show here that the uncertainty associated with such a drift-diffusion process can be calculated in terms of the entropy associated with the Fokker–Planck equation. This entropic evolution comprises two components: an irreversible entropic spread that always increases over time and a reversible entropic current that can increase or decrease locally within the system. We apply this dynamic entropy decomposition to two-photon imaging data collected in the murine visual cortex. Our analysis reveals maps of conserved entropic flow emanating from lateromedial, anterolateral, and rostrolateral regions toward the primary visual cortex (V1). These results highlight the role of V1 as an entropic sink, facilitating the redistribution of information throughout the visual cortex. These findings offer new insights into the hierarchical organization of cortical processing and provide a framework for exploring information dynamics in complex dynamical systems.
Generation of auto-focusing circular Pearcey Swallowtail tornado beams and their application to particle manipulation
Authors: Wu 斌裕 Binyu 邬 , Zhuang 楚鸿 Chuhong 庄 , Liu 子寒 Zihan 刘 , Deng 冬梅 Dongmei 邓
Published: February 2025

Optically chiral tornado beams, characterized by their torsion and shrinkage properties in both radial and angular dimensions, show significant potential for studying and applying their interactions with matter. This research generates a novel auto-focusing tornado beam by superimposing a circular Pearcey beam and a circular Swallowtail beam. By tuning the beam parameters, we achieve diverse tornado morphologies and focal spot distributions, and explore the key parameters that influence the beam’s rotation. Furthermore, we investigate the beam’s optical chirality density and the gradient force distribution for capturing Rayleigh particles, and theoretically verify their potential applications in the fields of interaction with chiral matter and particle capture. Finally, the ability of the generated beams to capture micrometre-scale particles is confirmed through experimental verification.
RID-LIO: robust and accurate intensity-assisted LiDAR-based SLAM for degenerated environments
Authors: Sun Tao , Guo Rui , Chen Gang , Wang Hongyan , Li En , Zhang Wenbiao
Published: February 2025

LiDAR-based simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) methods often degrade in environments lacking geometric features (such as tunnels and long corridors), where planar features are abundant but linear features are sparse. To address this issue, we propose RID-LIO, an intensity-assisted LiDAR-inertial SLAM framework that integrates adaptive intensity feature extraction and intensity-based loop detection, overcoming the reliance on geometric features in existing methods. First, 3D point clouds are cylindrically projected to generate intensity images, from which intensity line features are extracted to enhance constraints in degraded directions. A weighting function is also incorporated to optimize the quality of the pose estimation, while an efficient intensity edge context descriptor improves loop detection efficiency and reduces trajectory drift. Evaluations on the VECtor dataset show an average improvement of 63.59% in trajectory accuracy. Tests on a private dataset demonstrate that RID-LIO outperforms other state-of-the-art methods in terms of end-to-end error and map consistency.
Auto-PCI: an approach to automated reading of single-pointer meters with adaptive ranges based on YOLOv5s and PP-OCRv3
Authors: Zhan Weihong , Pang Aiping , Yang Wen , Zhang Wenbo , Luo Yonghui , Zhao Qianchuan
Published: February 2025

In industry, pointer meters are still widely used in traditional industries to monitor the condition of equipment. However, most of the meter reading methods can only read specific gauges. For pointer meters with different ranges, we propose a range-adaptive method for automatic meter reading called Auto-PCI, which uses YOLOv5s to detect the scale values on the instrument panel, and PP-OCRv3 to read these values and determine the range of the target meter. Skewed meter images are corrected by perspective correction, combined with the use of U-Net to accurately extract the pointer and scale areas on the meter for accurate readings. Due to environmental factors, PP-OCRv3 may misread or fail to recognize meter scale values, so we propose a range estimation algorithm to improve the accuracy (Acc) and stability of meter range recognition. Compared with existing methods, our method significantly improves the Acc of readings with a 33.3% reduction in error.
Knowledge and data tandem-driven remaining using life prediction algorithms for few-shot
Authors: Li Yiming , Zhao Yongxing , Luo Guangxu , Wang Jiankang , Liu Tongshan , Song Guiqiu
Published: February 2025

How to achieve accurate predictions in a few-shot scenario with limited data is currently a pressing issue. It requires a thorough excavation of domain differences to extract embedded information, improve model generalization, and clarify the decision-making processes, thereby enhancing model credibility and feasibility. To achieve this goal, this study combines the advantages of knowledge-driven and data-driven model, and proposes a knowledge and data tandem-driven algorithm based on deep feature decoupling network (DFDN) to solve the few-shot prediction problem. This method offers both a mechanistic explanation of the employed model and the ability to address few-shot prediction problems. First, the cross-domain metrics of the few-shot data are obtained by an auto-encoding DFDN, and a multi-stage degradation model is constructed. Particle filtering (PF) algorithms and sampling importance resampling techniques are then used to identify the model parameters. The remaining useful life of the bearing is derived through the forward inference of PF and compared to the results of the conventional model for validation. Experiments indicate the superiority and effectiveness of the algorithm approach in few-shot prediction.
LFDNet: a lightweight fault diagnosis network for wind turbine gearboxes
Authors: Xie Keqiang , Cheng Cheng , Cheng Yiwei , Wang Yuanhang , Chen Liping
Published: February 2025

With the fast growth of embedded and handheld intelligent devices, the demand for lightweight fault diagnosis (FD) models of wind turbine gearboxes (WTG) is increasing in actual industrial scenarios. The existing lightweight FD approaches suffer from poor diagnostic performance and low robustness in complex operating environments. In this paper, a FD approach is proposed based on a new lightweight FD network (LFDNet) for high diagnostic performance of WTG. In LFDNet, the stem module, stage module and downsample module are respectively redesigned to reduce the model complexity and maintain superior and robust diagnostic capabilities, which enable it to diagnose the faults of WTG precisely, even with noisy interference. In the validation experiments on a self-made dataset and an open-source dataset, the diagnostic accuracy achieves 99.41% and 99.69%, respectively, which is higher than multiple lightweight deep learning methods. In addition, the anti-noise experiment also shows that the proposed approach has good noise robustness.
Field-effect transistors based on nickel oxide doped with nitrogen semiconductor ferroelectrics for ultralow voltage switch (1 μV), low subthreshold swing and memory
Authors: Vulpe S , Dragoman M , Aldrigo M , Nastase F , Mladenovic D , Ligor O , Dragoman D
Published: February 2025

A single field-effect transistor (FET) based on nitrogen doped-nickel oxide (NiON) semiconductor ferroelectric shows an ultralow voltage switch at a gate voltage value of just 1 μV and a subthreshold swing (SS) of 55 mV/decade. The same FET acts as a ferroelectric capacitive non-volatile memory between the drain and the ground. All these features are retrieved in a FET based on NiON grown on a thin layer of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), which was deposited on a doped silicon (Si) wafer. After 1 year, we retrieved the same values in our devices without any thermal annealing or other procedures to wake up the ferroelectricity.
Reaching extreme laser intensities using multi-petawatt lasers interacting with micro-cones
Authors: Budrigă O , d’Humières E , Budrigă A , Tanaka K A
Published: February 2025

Micro-cones so far mainly used for high energy density physics research have been proven to have an effective control on the fast electrons in the context of fast ignition research. In this paper we demonstrate by performing three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations that an ultra-high intensity laser pulse can be intensified 28 times at the interaction with plastic micro-cones. The extreme intensities of the focused laser which are reached at the interaction with the plastic micro-cones are important in the plasma and nuclear physics investigations of dark matter, non-linear quantum electrodynamics, and fission–fusion experiments to study the N = 126 waiting point for better understanding of the Universe. Furthermore, we observe that micro-cones can shorten ultra-high intensity laser pulses both in time and space. The highest intensification of the incident laser pulse varies in time but not in position being localized very close to the rear side of the micro-cone tip. Therefore, the micro-cone can be a useful device in relativistic plasma optics.
Non-intrusive measurement of magnetic field strengths in a low-pressure argon plasma using quantum beat spectroscopy
Authors: Gilbert Tyler J , Steinberger Thomas E , Scime Earl E
Published: February 2025

Accurate measurement of magnetic field strengths is critical in many plasma environments, ranging from astrophysical systems to fusion energy research. In this work, a non-perturbative laser-based optical diagnostic known as quantum beat spectroscopy is demonstrated to be good alternative for measuring the magnetic field strength in low-pressure laboratory plasmas. The technique is investigated using both ns and fs pulsed lasers in an argon plasma. Preliminary results for a helium plasma are also given. Zeeman-split J = 1 electron states with transitions from metastable states were identified and tested for neutral argon

(
2

P

1

/

2

o

)
4
p

2

[
1

/

2
]

and neutral helium

1
s
3
p

1

P
1

o

. Magnetic fields are measured with sub-Gauss precision at near single laser pulse acquisition rates.
Computational study of characteristics of atmospheric pressure glow discharge in helium
Authors: Islamov Gubad , Eylenceoglu Ender , Rafatov Ismail
Published: February 2025

Numerical analysis of an atmospheric pressure glow discharge (APGD) in helium is carried out. Numerical models are spatially one- and two-dimensional and based on drift-diffusion theory of gas discharges. On the basis of the current–voltage and current density–voltage characteristic curves, the effects of the temperature regime on the cathode surface (cooled vs uncooled), the value of the secondary electron emission coefficient, and the thermal diffusion on the discharge parameters are studied. The possible transition of the discharge to an obstructed mode with gas heating is investigated. An analysis of the formation of normal APGD was carried out, which revealed good agreement with experimental data. The spontaneous emergence of cathode spots is illustrated and discussed.
Collision integrals of electronically excited atoms in air plasmas: II. N–O interactions
Authors: Zhao Wensheng , Hong Qizhen , Yang Chao , Sun Quanhua , Hu Yuan
Published: February 2025

This paper is a continuation of our work on constructing the high-accuracy database of the collision integrals (CIs) and transport properties for weakly ionized air plasmas involving electronically excited atoms (Zhao et al 2023 Plasma Sources Sci. Technol.
32 125002). In this work, CIs for N(4S,2D,2P)–O(3P) and N(4S)–O(1D) interactions over a wide temperature range are calculated based on the high-quality potential energy curves (PECs). The high-level ab initio calculations are first carried out to obtain the potential energy data covering a broad energy range, which are then fitted to cubic spline interpolation functions to derive the PECs. The accuracy of these PECs is confirmed by their excellent agreement with the available experimental data. Based on the present PECs, the multi-channel quantum mechanical approach in the diabatic representation is adopted to explore nonadiabatic effects on CIs resulting from the avoided crossings between the excited states. The results reveal that ignoring the nonadiabatic effects leads to an underestimation of the calculated CIs, especially at high temperatures. Therefore, a semiclassical-based correction model that effectively considers the multi-channel effects is employed for fast and accurate CI calculations in the temperature range of 500–50 000 K. Based on the present high-accuracy CI data, two most successful phenomenological collision models suitable for the widely used particle simulation methods are re-parameterized. Furthermore, we calculate rate coefficients of electronic quenching and excitation based on our high-quality PECs using the semiclassical method, demonstrating an improvement on prediction accuracy compared to previous calculations when benchmarked against experimental data.
Control of the photoresist etch uniformity in inductive discharge with magnetic resonance wireless power transfer
Authors: Park Junyoung , Hong Young-Hun , Kang Gil-Ho , Kim Min-Seok , Seo Beom-Jun , Kim Ju-Ho , Chung Chin-Wook
Published: February 2025

As chamber and wafer sizes increase to improve productivity, generating a uniform plasma with a large-area plasma source is a key challenge. To control the uniformity of photoresist (PR) etching, an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) source using magnetic resonance wireless power transfer is developed. An inner-powered antenna (PA) connected to a power generator and an outer resonant antenna (RA) connected to a variable capacitor are installed on the chamber. Three resonance regimes are identified as the self-resonance frequency of the RA is adjusted: non-resonance regime, PA and RA current ratio 1:1 regime, and resonance regime. In each regime, the electron energy probability function is measured and the electron kinetics is investigated. In addition, the radial distribution of ion flux is measured and compared to the PR etching results to control etch uniformity through plasma uniformity adjustment. The residual PR thickness shows the opposite profile to the ion flux profile in each regime. Another way to control the PR etch uniformity in addition to the three regimes is the cyclic regime, which is a continuous change of the resonance regime, the PA and RA current ratio 1:1 regime, and the non-resonance regime. At this cyclic regime, the PR thickness is lower by the non-resonance regime at the center region, and lower by the resonance regime in the edge region. In this cyclic regime, it is possible to add a control knob to control PR etch uniformity by adjusting the ratio of time each condition is sustained within the cycle. These experimental results present perspectives for the controllability of an ICP source using the magnetic resonance wireless power transfer and for improving the uniformity of PR etching.
Fiber metal laminate-embedded, wireless MEMS vibrometer for structural health monitoring using guided ultrasonic waves
Authors: Roloff Thomas , Niklas Haus Jan , Bornemann Sarah , Rittmeier Liv , Lüssem Björn , Dietzel Andreas , Sinapius Michael
Published: February 2025

This paper describes and evaluates the embedding of sensors and electronic sensor nodes into fiber metal laminate (FML) plates to achieve material-integrated, guided ultrasonic wave based structural health monitoring for hybrid materials. It evaluates how embedded electronics can enhance the process of sensor data acquisition and at the same time critically investigates the drawbacks that accompany the embedding approach regarding the influence on the received signal. A FML specimen with single sensors in one half of the plate and sensors with attached electronic sensor nodes for wireless readout in the other half is manufactured, introducing the detailed embedding process for such systems. Ultrasonic through-thickness scans of the manufactured plate are presented and analyzed to assess the achieved embedding quality. Together with electric sensor signals from both, wireless and wirebound micro-electromechanical system vibrometers and data from a scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (SLDV) the influence of material-integrated components on the wave propagation around the locations of integration is discussed. Further, the signals of wirebound sensors are successfully correlated with measurements performed using the SLDV and directly compared to data provided by wirelessly readout sensor nodes having the same type of sensor attached. This work shows how reflections occurring due to a material integration of components influence the recorded sensor data. At the same time, it is discussed how, for baseline-based damage detection methods, the influence of this is assumed to be a minor problem, and proof for advantages provided by the integration of complete sensor systems directly into the host material is provided.
Novel liquid–gas phase change soft actuator for high efficiency drive and its underwater application
Authors: Chen Gang , Liu Zhen , Zhang Chao , Zeng Jinfeng , Wu Chuanyu , Hu Huosheng , Tang Shuangying
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a novel spin-thermal transient heating method for liquid–gas phase change soft actuators that utilize material volume changes for actuation. Traditional heating methods require direct contact between the liquid and the heater, leading to increased voltage for vaporization. To overcome challenges associated with miniaturization and lightweighting, a new actuator monomer is designed, and a volume expansion model is established. Theoretical analysis identifies the optimal low-boiling liquid amount for various monomers. Experimental results show a 94.12% increase in heating efficiency, a 67.65% reduction in start-up response time, and a 45.46% improvement in maximum expansion compared to traditional methods. The paper also examines the effects of temperature difference and saturated vapor pressure on heating efficiency. Furthermore, it explores deformation and combination mechanisms, leading to the development of a windmill-type underwater actuator and a center of gravity adjustment device. Experimental results demonstrate a stable rotation of 30 s for the windmill actuator and a stable motion period of 15 s for the adjustment device, providing an innovative solution for efficient actuation in flexible underwater applications.
Quantum synchronization in presence of shot noise
Authors: Höhe Florian , Danner Lukas , Padurariu Ciprian , Donvil Brecht I C , Ankerhold Joachim , Kubala Björn
Published: February 2025

Synchronization is a widespread phenomenon encountered in many natural and engineered systems with nonlinear classical dynamics. How synchronization concepts and mechanisms transfer to the quantum realm and whether features are universal or platform specific are timely questions of fundamental interest. They can be studied in superconducting electrical circuits which provide a well-established platform for nonlinear quantum dynamics. Here, we consider a Josephson-photonics device, where a dc-biased Josephson junction creates (non-classical) light in a microwave cavity. The combined quantum compound constitutes a self-sustained oscillator: a system susceptible to synchronization. This is due to the inherent effect of an in-series resistance, which realizes an autonomous feedback mechanism of the charge transport on the driving voltage. Accounting for the full counting statistics of transported charge not only yields phase diffusion, but allows us to describe phase locking to an ac-signal and the mutual synchronization of two such devices. Thereby one can observe phase stabilization leading to a sharp emission spectrum as well as unique charge transport statistics revealing shot noise induced phase slips. Two-time perturbation theory is used to obtain a reduced description of the oscillators phase dynamics in form of a Fokker–Planck equation in generalization of classical synchronization theories.
Spontaneous demixing in binary cell mixtures with polar alignment
Authors: Zhu Wei-jing , Li Jia-jian , Ai Bao-quan
Published: February 2025

The demixing of embryonic cell populations plays a crucial role in developing organisms. This process facilitates the compartmentalization of various cell types, allowing for specialized functions and tissue development. We examine if orientation coupling alone is sufficient to induce demixing in a binary cell mixture. To address this question, we utilized the self-propelled Voronoi model to investigate the demixing behavior of binary cells with different chirality in the presence of polar alignment. There exists an optimal value of chirality or polar alignment at which cells undergo robust demixing. Furthermore, our research reveals that a particular interplay between the self-propelled velocity and the shape index can aid in the process of cell demixing. Notably, an increase in self-propelled velocity corresponds to a decrease in the shape index value required for effective cell demixing. The ability to manipulate cell demixing through orientation coupling could offer new strategies for engineering tissue structures or controlling cell demixing in regenerative medicine and synthetic biology.
Wave manipulation of a coupling pendulum metamaterial by parametric excitation
Authors: Yang Leiyu , Miao Huan
Published: February 2025

The use of mechanical metamaterials for the purpose of controlling wave propagation is made possible by their flexibility and adjustability. In this paper, a one-dimensional metamaterial composed of compound pendulums and inverted pendulums with high-frequency parametric excitation is proposed. The pendulum system can be equivalent to a nonlocal metamaterial and effective mass and effective stiffness can be obtained. The high-frequency parametric excitation provides an equivalent additional stiffness. This additional stiffness can provide an antigravity effect to the inverted pendulum. It makes the inverted pendulum into a stable system. The stability, bandgap structure and wave velocity can be manipulated by adjusting the frequency of the parametric excitation. And a zero-frequency bandgap can be obtained. Moreover, the pendulum system is capable of splitting a wavepacket into two distinct wavepackets within the dual wavevector region. The theoretical results are corroborated by the finite element numerical method. Due to the presence of parametric excitation, the proposed model is more tuneable than conventional metamaterials. This study has the potential to establish a novel approach for the control of ultra-low frequency vibration. The wave splitting phenomenon has the capacity to provide a theoretical foundation for the design of wave separator. It is anticipated that the findings will also furnish novel insights for the design of other devices that control wave propagation.
The effect of rare earth Ce and Sm doping on the structure and magnetic properties of (Y2.5Ce0.5Fe5O12)1−x/ (Mg0.95Sm0.05O)x nanocomposites
Authors: Habanjar Khulud , Sharrouf Majed , Awad R
Published: February 2025

Co-precipitation followed by ball-milling techniques have been used to synthesize (Y2.5Ce0.5Fe5O12)1−x/ (Mg0.95Sm0.05O)x nanocomposites, with x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, and 1. Based on structural analysis, the XRD data indicated a distinct phase separation signature of Y3Fe5O12 (YIG) and MgO, with the formation of MgFe2O4 along with YFeO3 and CeO2. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed a drastic change in particle size with a maximum value of 175 nm for YM40 nanocomposite with the increase of the concentration of Mg0.95Sm0.05O phase. Elemental analysis and surface morphology were studied using the energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. The purity and the crystallinity of all samples were verified with sharp peaks related to the present elements without any detected impurity elements. Fourier transform infrared showed two peaks at 916 and 864 cm−1 for Y2.5Ce0.5Fe5O12 and a wide band between 415 cm−1 and 661 cm−1 for MgO, confirming the garnet structure and the stretching vibrations in MgO matrix, respectively. Strong, distinct modes were visible in the Raman spectra of YIG nanoparticles, however, two large peaks in MgO were identified as the G and D bands. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to examine the oxidation states and elemental compositions of different elements. The M-H loops have been used to determine the magnetic properties of the samples. The saturation magnetization Ms decreased from 11.23 emu g−1 to 2.68 emu g−1 as x increased from 0.0 to 0.8, caused by the weak ferromagnetism of Mg0.95Sm0.05O’s contribution to magnetization, which may also result in less super-exchange contact between the garnet’s octahedral B-sites and tetrahedral A-sites. These soft magnetization properties made the prepared nanocomposites an excellent insulator, appropriate for microwave applications like filters or sensors.
Propagating OAM modes through a regular octagonal photonic crystal fiber with a flat dispersion
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Deng Dongdong , Xu Liang , Ji Xinchen , Zhang Hui , Rui Jiawei , Mao Shuai , Wang Yang , Gao Zhiang , Jiang Chenglong , Song Yingxiong , Pang Fufei , Zhuang Liyun , Yang Song , He Xiaofeng , Wang Chao , Zhu Tiezhu
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a regular octagonal photonic crystal fiber (ROPCF) is proposed to support and improve the stable transmission of orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes. The proposed ROPCF is composed of a doped high refractive index ring and four layers of air hole rings, ensuring that the effective refractive index difference between OAM modes of the same order or OAM mode group is greater than

10

−
4

, and can stably transmit 114 OAM modes in the wavelength range of 1.5 ∼ 1.6

μ
m

. A finite element method (FEM) is used to analyze the designed ROPCF. The measured results show that the ROPCF has high mode quality (MQ) (all modes are greater than 95%), and the confinement losses (CL) of all vector modes are in the range of

10

−
14

to

10

−
11

dB/m. In addition, it also has a large effective mode area between 197.64 to 297.82

μ
m

2

. Moreover, the nonlinear coefficients and chromatic dispersions (CD) are less than 0.6

W

−
1

/
km

and 276 ps/nm/km, respectively. And the dispersion change is relatively flat. The 10ps walk-off lengths of all vector modes supported by ROPCF at a wavelength of 1.55

μ
m

are also analyzed. The obtained data results show that the 10ps walk-off lengths of the most of supported vector modes are within the range of

10

3

to

10

5

m, which is beneficial for long-distance transmission of OAM modes. These significant performances indicate that ROPCF has great application value in improving communication channel capacity (CC) and spectral efficiency (SE).
Digital quantum simulations of Hong-Ou-Mandel interference
Authors: Mohan Navaneeth Krishnan , Bhowmick Rikteem , Kumar Devesh , Chaurasiya Rohit
Published: February 2025

Quantum computers can efficiently simulate quantum systems evolving according to local interactions, making them valuable for exploring quantum many-body dynamics, despite current hardware and algorithmic challenges. In this work, we address the digital quantum simulations of linear optical elements which are inherently bosonic quantum systems. We adopt an encoding scheme based on Gray code to map bosonic states to qubits, which is efficient in terms of qubits and gate counts. Using a beam splitter as a representative example, we demonstrate the construction of quantum algorithms to simulate linear optical elements in quantum computers. To validate our algorithm, we performed a digital quantum simulation of the Hong-Ou-Mandel interference, a two-photon experiment. Our simulations, conducted both in quantum simulators and IBM quantum hardwares, successfully reproduced the characteristics of Hong-Ou-Mandel interference, validating our approach.
Fusion of solitons, breathers, lumps, and their interactions process in B-type KP equation in quasi one-dimensional shallow water waves
Authors: Ahmad Shabir , Al-Dayel Ibrahim , Khan Meraj Ali
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we study distinctive solutions to the (3+1)-dimensional B-type KP (BKP) equation, including lump, kink and soliton solutions with fusion phenomena. First, Hirota bilinear (HB) form is derived via Cole-Hopf transformation and HB operator. Via bilinear form and auxiliary function with specific constraints, the results concerned with lump, periodic lumps, and their interactions with kink solitons are demonstrated. Furthermore, various kinds of fusions of high order solitons are analyzed. The results related to first and second order breathers and their interaction with kink solitons are portrayed. All results are graphically displayed in 3D plots. The results reported here are new for the considered equation and have not been published elsewhere.
Analysis of SEIR model for two target population with optimal control and stochastic approach
Authors: Modak Bikash
Published: February 2025

The present study introduces a SEIR (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered) model that incorporates the individual awareness regarding the disease transmission. Based on this understanding, the susceptible population is divided into two distinct classes: aware and unaware. It is assumed that there is unrestricted interaction between these two susceptible populations. The model demonstrates two distinct steady states: disease-free steady (DFS) and endemic steady (ES) state. Additionally, conditions for the stability of both steady states are derived. The results indicate that the DFS state is stable when the basic reproduction number (BRN) is less than unity, whereas the ES state exists when BRN is greater than unity and is locally stable under specific parametric conditions. Furthermore, the system is numerically solved using Matlab. Results indicate that unaware individuals are at a higher risk of infection compared to those who are aware. The impact of specific parameters on the population dynamics are shown graphically. Additionally, optimal control study is performed to regulate the infection in the population. Various control strategies have been considered and the most effective strategy to curb the spread of infection involves reducing the number of susceptibles, exposed and infected individuals while increasing the recovered individuals. Furthermore, the proposed model is modified to a stochastic differential equation (SDE) model by adding noise to each equation involving the state variables. This study aims to observe the population dynamics under the influence of additive noise. It is concluded that high noise intensity causes population fluctuations, leading to unstable nature of the system.
Calibration of an Internal-Length Standard by Angle-Stepping Gap Interferometry
Authors: Leroux Ian D , Hunter Tyler J , Reain Gregory C , Eves Brian J
Published: February 2025

We demonstrate a simple interferometric method for calibrating the length of an uncoated Fabry-Pérot etalon, using a rotary analog of phase-stepping interferometry. The interferometric method is designed to realize nearly the same measurand as a subsequent measurement in a tactile instrument. The estimated expanded uncertainty of 4 nm for the optical calibration, together with the well-matched measurands, make the etalon a promising transfer standard for the calibration of bidirectional corrections in tactile probing systems.