bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiferromagnetic skyrmion dynamics in stepped geometry for various applications
Authors: Saini Shipra , Verma Ravi Shankar , Kaushik Brajesh Kumar
Published: October 2024

Antiferromagnetic skyrmions are tiny particle like spin textures, topologically more stable, having low depinning current density. They are potential candidate for spintronics devices owing to their robustness toward external magnetic field perturbations. Precise control of the skyrmion motion is essential for applications such as racetrack memories, multistate memories, and neuromorphic computing devices. However, in conventional nanotracks, these particles could not be stabilized due to inter-skyrmion repulsion. Hence, in the case of domain wall-based racetracks and multi-state memory devices, extra notches or similar geometric confinements are included within the nanotrack. Here, we show that a stepped nanotrack geometry is one possible solution for controlling the skyrmion dynamics that can be further employed in racetrack memory, multistate memory, and leaky integrate-and-fire neuron devices. Compared to the domain wall depinning current density of ∼1011–1012 A/m2, only ∼106 A/m2 is required for skyrmions. Additionally, we observe that the modified skyrmion racetracks with stepped geometry can mimic the functionality of the biological neuron, including the leaky behavior, eliminating the need for an anisotropy gradient, Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction gradient, or thermal gradient, which is required for the case of domain wall nanotrack. The current density required to drive the skyrmions on this modified nanotrack is ∼1010 A/m2. The effects of defects and edge roughness due to the fabrication process are also studied.
Numerical investigation of the effects of wave–current interaction on the dynamic responses of a floating power harvesting platform
Authors: Wu Haitao , Deng Wanru , Yuan Zhiming
Published: October 2024

The present study explores the effects of wave–current interaction (WCI) on the dynamic response of a floating power harvesting platform under a typically operational condition, which is composed of a semi-submersible platform, multiple point-absorber wave energy converters (WECs), and a catenary mooring system. First, a mathematical model based on the Joint North Sea Wave Project (JONSWAP) spectrum is developed to model the random wave–current interaction. After completing the hydrodynamic validation of the power harvesting platform system, time-domain simulations are employed to implement multiple loading scenarios, which consider the current direction, current velocity, and WCI. The findings demonstrate that the presence of current significantly alters the wave characteristics, leading to notable changes in the energy conversion performance of the wave farm, platform motion, and mooring line tension. This paper underscores the importance of WCI in accurately simulating the dynamic behavior of power harvesting platform and provides insights into the design of floating offshore energy systems.
Differential modulation of photosystem II photochemical efficiency in six C4 xero-halophytes
Authors: Zia Ahmad , Gulzar Salman , Edwards Gerald E.
Published: October 2024

Xero-halophytes are the salt-tolerant plants of dry habitats that adapt efficient strategies to endure extreme salt and water fluctuations. This study elucidated the adaptations related to PSII photochemistry, photoprotection, and photoinhibition in six C4 xero-halophytes (Atriplex stocksii, Haloxylon stocksii, Salsola imbricata, Suaeda fruticosa, Desmostachya bipinnata, and Saccharum griffithii) grown in their native habitats. Chlorophyll a fluorescence quenching measurements suggested that S. imbricata and H. stocksii maintained efficient PSII photochemistry by downregulating heat dissipation and keeping a high fraction of open PSII centres that indicates plastoquinone (PQ) pool oxidation. Fluorescence induction kinetics revealed that S. imbricata demonstrated the highest performance index of PSII excitation to the reduction of end electron acceptors. S. fruticosa sustained photochemical efficiency through enhanced dissipation of excess energy and a low fraction of open PSII centres, indicating PQ reduced state. The large light-harvesting antenna size, deduced from the chlorophyll a/b ratio in S. fruticosa apparently led to the superior performance index of PSII excitation to the reduction of intersystem electron carriers. A. stocksii retained more open PSII centres with responsive non-photochemical quenching to safely dissipate excess energy. Despite maintaining the highest pigment contents and stoichiometry, A. stocksii remained lowest in both performance indices. The grass species D. bipinnata and S. griffithii kept fewer PSII centres open during photoinhibition, as evidenced by downregulation of PSII operating efficiency. The results provide insights into the differential modulation of PSII photochemical efficiency through dynamic control of photoprotective energy dissipation, PQ pool redox states, and photoinhibitory shutdown in these xero-halophytes.
Toward a CRISPR-based mouse model ofVhl-deficient clear cell kidney cancer: Initial experience and lessons learned
Authors: Stransky Laura A. , Gao Wenhua , Schmidt Laura S. , Bi Kevin , Ricketts Christopher J. , Ramesh Vijyendra , James Amy , Difilippantonio Simone , Ileva Lilia , Kalen Joseph D. , Karim Baktiar , Jeon Albert , Morgan Tamara , Warner Andrew C. , Turan Sevilay , Unite Joanne , Tran Bao , Choudhari Sulbha , Zhao Yongmei , Linn Douglas E. , Yun Changhong , Dhandapani Sripriya , Parab Vaishali , Pinheiro Elaine M. , Morris Nicole , He Lixia , Vigeant Sean M. , Pignon Jean-Christophe , Sticco-Ivins Maura , Signoretti Sabina , Van Allen Eliezer M. , Linehan W. Marston , Kaelin William G.
Published: October 2024

CRISPR is revolutionizing the ability to do somatic gene editing in mice for the purpose of creating new cancer models. Inactivation of theVHLtumor suppressor gene is the signature initiating event in the most common form of kidney cancer, clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Such tumors are usually driven by the excessive HIF2 activity that arises when theVHLgene product, pVHL, is defective. Given the pressing need for a robust immunocompetent mouse model of human ccRCC, we directly injected adenovirus-associated viruses (AAVs) encoding sgRNAs againstVHLand other known/suspected ccRCC tumor suppressor genes into the kidneys of C57BL/6 mice under conditions where Cas9 was under the control of one of two different kidney-specific promoters (Cdh16orPax8) to induce kidney tumors. An AAV targetingVhl, Pbrm1, Keap1, andTsc1reproducibly caused macroscopic ccRCCs that partially resembled human ccRCC tumors with respect to transcriptome and cell of origin and responded to a ccRCC standard-of-care agent, axitinib. Unfortunately, these tumors, like those produced by earlier genetically engineered mouse ccRCCs, are HIF2 independent.
Digital social reading annotations as evidence of L2
proficiency
Authors: Poole Frederick J. , Thoms Joshua J.
Published: October 2024

In this chapter, we put forth an exploratory approach for
using digital social reading (DSR) tools and activities to develop
and implement performance-based assessments. We argue that by
planning tasks for assessment purposes within an assessment for
learning framework, second language (L2) educators can
systematically collect formative data to make better evaluations of
student proficiency levels. In addition, we demonstrate how DSR
tools can facilitate this approach to classroom-based assessments.
Drawing on data collected from two earlier studies in Chinese L2
classrooms, we demonstrate how engagement with DSR tools can provide
evidence of reading proficiency at different levels. We also provide
recommendations for designing DSR tasks using the evidence-centered
design framework (Yin &
Mislevy, 2021) and illustrate how these tasks can be
expanded into Integrated Performance Assessments that evaluate other
modes of communication, in addition to interpretive reading.
North Korean propaganda and counterpropaganda on YouTube
Authors: Kang Seok
Published: October 2024

Drawn from attribute agenda setting theory and propaganda theory, this study examined an attribute agenda structure of YouTube videos on North Korean propaganda and its relationship with social media network indicators. A topic modeling analysis with 2,538 video descriptions clustered bulk documents into four attribute agendas: proximity, prominence, conflicts, and common interest. Proximity related North Korean propaganda to its main stakeholders such as China. Prominence was concerned with the relationship between North Korea and business. Conflict showcased North Korea’s military power as a confronting mode against South Korea. Common interest covered daily attractions in North Korea, including music and tourism. A positive relationship between conflict and all network strength indicators implies that YouTube descriptions of North Korea are related to military confrontations, showing belligerence as a notable attribute. Four topics and their linkage with network ties suggest that, despite North Korea’s efforts to build a soft image via YouTube, influencers set conflicts as key agenda attributes.
A corpus-based comparative acoustic analysis of target-like vowel production by L1-Japanese learners and
native speakers of English
Authors: Schweinberger Martin , Komiya Yuki
Published: October 2024

This study combines acoustic phonetics, (applied) corpus linguistics, machine learning, and speech
recognition to analyse the production of the monophthongal vowels / ɐ ɒ æ e ɛ i: ɪ u; ʊ ʌ / in the speech of
L1-Japanese learners and L1-speakers of English based on transcripts and audio data from the Japanese spoken monologue
section of the International Corpus Network of Asian Learners of English (ICNALE).
The aim of this analysis is to evaluate what vowels L1-Japanese learners struggle with in terms of target-like vowel
production and to provide insights into the determining factors causing divergencies from L1-English produced vowels.
The results of a Multifactorial Prediction and Deviation Analysis Using Regression/Random Forests
(MuPDARF) show that Japanese learners of English do indeed have difficulties in producing English vowels in a
target-like manner but that these difficulties are confined to a relatively small set of vowels (/ ɪ u ʊ ɛ /). In
addition, the analysis shows that difficulties are predominantly correlated with language-internal factors while
language external factors (the age and gender of speakers) as well as their target variety and proficiency do not
significantly correlate with non-target-like vowel production. The results suggest that Japanese learners of English
can focus on specific vowels to enhance their target-like vowel production and that difficulties are caused by
L1-interference due to a lack of phonemic vowel duration in Japanese and the similarity of Japanese and English vowels
leading learners to use their L1 vowels rather than the slightly but notably different English vowel variants. The
results can be used to raise awareness of L1-specific difficulties among this learner cohort due to their
L1-background.
Digital Dickens
Authors: Schneider Gerold
Published: October 2024

This investigation employs computational linguistic methods such as document classification, topic
modelling, and distributional semantics to scrutinize eight novels by Charles Dickens, uncovering dimensions of social
criticism, literary realism, and narrative structures. While affirming positive results for automated analysis of
social criticism, the study emphasizes that it could discover differing associations only due to semantic abstraction,
which distributional semantics, word embeddings, and topic modelling can offer. Literary realism is successfully
traced through detailed descriptions and everyday activities. Plotting plots with computational linguistic methods,
specifically conceptual maps with textplot, shows promise but requires refinement. The study shows that current
methods in content analysis offer new possibilities for literary analysis and digital humanities.
Do corpus data on World Englishes inspire tolerance of variation in ELT professionals?
Authors: Schlüter Julia
Published: October 2024

The present study aims to show that — given the status of English as a pluricentric global language and as a
lingua franca — Corpus Linguistics has important and unique contributions to make to English Language Teaching (ELT).
Desirable innovations arguably involve popularizing the use of corpus concordancing as a tool to put native speaker
intuitions on a firmer empirical footing, and imbuing ELT practitioners with an awareness that variation – in
particular (but not only) between geographical varieties — is an inherent and legitimate characteristic of language in
use. To support these points, a quasi-experimental questionnaire study with 76 native English speaking teachers based
at German universities is reported, which demonstrates the promises but also the obstacles of such an approach.
The analysis of errors in written word and sentence production
Authors: Soum-Favaro Christiane , Solier Clara , Perret Cyril
Published: October 2024

This paper proposes a linguistic theoretical review of French spelling surrounding regularity and consistency
questions both in the description of forms and in the estimation of regularity. After having described the terminological
ambiguity that prevails in these analyses and after having shown the impact of this ambiguity on the analysis of written errors,
we propose a new classification of French written errors passing through theoretically-driven and concept-driven analyses. This
classification, focuses on the production of lexical and grammatical spelling created for the DynaPen project and is available on
OSF.
Efficient coupling of single photons from chromium-vacancy centers in nanodiamonds into end-to-end aligned optical nanowires
Authors: Sahu Subrat , Jha Rajan
Published: October 2024

We report a numerical simulation on the coupling of chromium-vacancy centers in nanodiamond (CrV-ND) with end-to-end aligned optical nanowires (ONWs) structure. The structure is designed using finite-difference time-domain simulations to maximize the bidirectional coupling of spontaneous emission from a CrV-ND into ONW-guided modes. We systematically analyze the dependence of spontaneous emission characteristics on the ONW and CrV-ND dimension, quantum emitter (QE) position, and polarization. We show that coupling efficiency as high as 62% can be achieved into the guided modes from a CrV-ND placed at the center of ONWs, which is twice as compared to a CrV-ND placed on an ONW surface. The degree of polarization of single photons from CrV-ND is also estimated to be as high as 64%. This simple device can be reconfigured for various QEs. This present fiber inline platform may open new avenues in quantum photonics.
Hot carrier-based metal–semiconductor photodetectors: from quantum efficiency models to structural innovations
Authors: Seok Jongeun , Jin Yeonghoon , Yu Kyoungsik
Published: October 2024

Hot carrier photodetectors have emerged as a promising technology in modern photonics. They show immense potential for affordable, high-performance photodetection in various applications due to their simple fabrication and extended spectral range through sub-bandgap operation. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of hot carrier photodetectors, elucidating their operation principles based on internal photoemission. By examining the evolution of quantum efficiency models for hot carrier generation and transport, we offer a comparative analysis of recent advances in these models. We also outline various design strategies and emphasize their role in improving the overall device efficiency. The paper concludes with a summary of performance milestones achieved by different hot carrier photodetectors and a discussion on future directions.
Synergistic contributions of the poling field-induced changes in local structure on the piezoelectric properties of modified BaTiO3 system
Authors: Roy Pranab Kumar , Kumaravelu Thanigai Arul , Roy Chiranjit , Nga Ta Thi Thuy , Chen Jeng-Lung , Dong Chung-Li , Murugavel Pattukkannu
Published: October 2024

Local structural heterogeneity is a key factor in improving the piezoelectric properties of non-centrosymmetric piezoelectric systems. This work investigates electric field-induced structural and microstructural changes at localized and average scales to elucidate the structure-property correlations that enhance piezoelectric performance in Sn-doped BaTiO3 systems exhibiting coexisting phase boundaries. Despite showing field-induced structural phase transformation, the sample displays variations in piezocoefficient values with the nature of phase boundary compositions. Raman spectroscopy measurements reveal that the TiO6/SnO6 octahedra near the tetragonal-orthorhombic phase boundary exhibit significantly greater poling field-induced structural heterogeneities in local structure compared to those near the orthorhombic-cubic phase boundary. X-ray absorption spectroscopic results on Ti and Sn K-edge in unpoled and poled samples reveal that the dipolar contribution responsible for the piezoelectricity originates from field-induced distortion associated with both TiO6 and SnO6 octahedra. Near the vicinity of the tetragonal-orthorhombic phase boundary, both the TiO6 and SnO6 contributions are cumulative and exhibit better piezoelectricity. On the other hand, at the orthorhombic-cubic phase boundary, the dipolar contributions from these octahedra are counterintuitive, resulting in a reduction of piezoelectricity. These results could provide a pathway to design materials with an enhanced piezoelectric response by considering various phase boundary aspects before applying a poling field prior to making them piezoactive.
A study on the time–frequency variation law of electromagnetic radiation signals during concrete cracking
Authors: Jinghua Zhang , Lisha Peng , Xiangbo Kong , Shuzhi Wen , Songling Huang
Published: October 2024

Brittle materials such as concrete, rock, and coal emit weak electromagnetic radiation (EMR) signals during their cracking process. This study analyzed the time–frequency variation law during the concrete cracking process from the perspectives of energy changes and vibration processes. The relationship between EMR signals and concrete samples of different scales and strength standards, as well as between EMR signals and acoustic emission (AE) signals were investigated. The results indicate that the size and strength of the concrete samples primarily alter the dissipated energy stored within them. A positive correlation exists between the amplitude of EMR signals and the internal dissipated energy during the concrete cracking process. During the linear elastic stage, only a small amount of cracks form in concrete, resulting in negligible EMR signals. However, during the cracking process, EMR signals of various frequency bands are generated. The amplitude of low-frequency EMR signals exhibits minimal variation, showing a slight increase in the later stages of cracking. Medium and high-frequency EMR signals reach peak amplitudes at the point of maximum stress reduction and then rapidly decrease. Additionally, the primary frequency of the EMR signals closely matches the frequency of both crack vibration signals and AE signals. Therefore, analyzing the changes in amplitude and frequency of EMR signals during the concrete cracking process holds promise as a novel, non-destructive method for monitoring concrete cracks.
Near-unity quantum efficiency of self-powered broadband photovoltaic black Si photodetectors with passivated Schottky junction
Authors: Park HyunJung , Kim You Jin , Kim Munho
Published: October 2024

This study reports an effective chlorine (Cl2) plasma technique to passivate black Si surfaces, leading to high-responsivity self-powered broadband black silicon (Si) Schottky photodetectors and solar cells. Although black Si has gathered great attention for its excellent light absorption property, its application to optoelectronic devices has been mainly limited by a low carrier lifetime and high recombination rate originating from the nanotexturing process. We propose a simple Cl2 plasma technique to enhance the Schottky junction between black Si and graphene. The effective carrier lifetime is increased from 6.5 to 16.7 μs, leading to significant enhancement of device performance (i.e., responsivity from 0.676 to 409 mA W−1 and photo-to-dark current ratio from 1.10 to 3788 at 532 nm under self-powered mode, reduced dark current density from 5.96 to 1.00 µA cm−1, and improved photoconversion efficiency from 0.05% to 2.33%). These results highlight the high potential of Cl2 plasma as an effective passivation technique, paving the way for advancements in black semiconductor devices. Furthermore, the dual-function advantages of high-quality surface passivation and excellent light absorption properties make it an attractive and efficient scheme, particularly for optoelectronic devices.
Survey on portable sensing technologies for the radial artery characterization
Authors: Leandri Aurélia , Lecrosnier Louis , Ghazel Adel , Faure Bastien
Published: October 2024

The radial artery, one of the terminal branches of the forearm, is utilized for vascular access and in various non-invasive measurement method, providing crucial medical insights. Various sensor technologies have been developed, each suited to specific characterization requirements. The work presented in this paper is based on a systematic literature review of the main publications relating to this topic. Analysis of the forearm vascular system complex array of anatomical structures shows that the radial artery can be characterized by its size, position, elasticity, tissue evaluation, blood flow and blood composition. The survey of medical procedures for patient monitoring, diagnosis and pre-operative validation shows the use of measures for pulse wave, blood pressure, heart rate, skin temperature, tissue response,

…

By exploring sensor technologies used for artery characterization, we produce a synthesis of measurement principles, measured phenomena and measurement accuracy for capacitive, piezoresistive, bioimpedance, thermography, fiber optic based, piezoelectric and photoacoustic sensors. A comparative study is conducted for sensor technologies by considering the metrics of the information to be collected and the associated accuracy as well as the portability, the complexity of the processing, the cost and the mode of contact with the arm. Finally, a comprehensive framework is proposed to facilitate informed decisions in the development of medical devices tailored to specific characterization needs.
Synergetic engineering of oxidizable, redox, and inert metal decorated copper oxide for non-volatile memory and neuromorphic computing applications
Authors: Kundale Somnath S , Patil Swapnil R , Chavan Vijay D , Ustad Ruhan E , Bagade Amit A , Patil Suvarna M , Waifalkar Pradyumna P , Kim Deok-kee , Bae Jinho , Dongale Tukaram D
Published: October 2024

In the quest for efficient resistive switching (RS) materials for both non-volatile memory and neuromorphic computing applications, a variety of functional materials have been researched in the last few years. Herein, we systematically synthesized Ni, Ag, and Au decorated copper oxide (Cu
x
O) by using an electrochemical approach and investigated their RS performance for both non-volatile memory storage and neuromorphic computing applications. By tuning various electrochemical parameters, we optimized Ni, Ag, and Au decoration over the Cu
x
O switching layers to understand the effect of oxidizable, redox, and inert metal decoration, respectively. Fabricated Ni–Cu
x
O/FTO, Ag-Cu
x
O/FTO, and Au–Cu
x
O/FTO devices show forming-free bipolar and analog properties of RS behavior. The electrical measurements asserted that the electrodeposited Ni–Cu
x
O/FTO RS device shows excellent RS, non-volatile memory, and synaptic learning properties compared to the Ag–Cu
x
O/FTO, and Au–Cu
x
O/FTO devices. Moreover, the statistical and Weibull distribution parameters suggested that the Ni–Cu
x
O/FTO RS device has lower switching variation than the other two devices. The conduction mechanisms of all devices are investigated by fitting the appropriate physics-oriented models. It was found that Ohmic and Child’s square law were dominated during the charge transport and the RS process occurred due to the filamentary switching effect. Results suggested the electro-decorated/-deposited Ni–Cu
x
O is a suitable switching layer for memory as well as neuromorphic computing applications.
Design of MgO/graphene nanocomposites for photocatalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol and electrocatalytic oxidation of Methylene blue dye
Authors: Mosleh Ahmed T , Hassan Ahmed E , Sabry N , Ganesh V , Zahran H Y , Aboraia A M , Hussien Mai S A , Alkureda T , Yahia Ibrahim S
Published: October 2024

The present study deals with the combustion synthesis of MgO/Graphene (MG) nanocomposites and investigates their photocatalytic, electrocatalytic, and photo-electrocatalytic properties for efficient redox reactions. Techniques such as FT-IR, XRD, SEM, HR-TEM, EDX, BET, and UV–vis-DRS were used to characterize MG nanocomposites. Both the photocatalytic degradation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) and the electrocatalytic results of the MG2 nanocomposite were studied under visible light. The results showed that the MG2 nanocomposite catalyst achieved 99.07% degradation of MB dye and kinetic degradation rates of 0.114 min−1 after 40 min, compared to the catalytic activity of MG0. Thus, facile modification can effectively improve the photocatalytic reduction (toxic 4-NP to beneficial 4-AP) and electrocatalytic degradation (MB) abilities of MG0. The functions of active species in the catalytic process were investigated using various scavengers. The ·OH radicals are the reactive species responsible for the 4-NP reduction, and a possible mechanism for improved catalytic activities was also provided. Incorporating graphene under visible light boosted the MG’s activity and confirmed it to be the most effective method for handling MB dye.
Calibration of the microphone sensitivity below 0.5 Hz using the liquid-column-type sound pressure generator
Authors: Yamada Keisuke , Hirano Koto , Takahashi Hironobu , Nozato Hideaki
Published: October 2024

The demand for infrasound monitoring has increased to effectively gather information regarding its source phenomena, such as volcanic explosions, tsunamis, and nuclear explosions. To capture infrasound signals, an array of infrasound sensors, including microphones and micro-barometers, has been deployed internationally and locally. Nevertheless, achieving a precise analysis remains challenging because of inconsistencies among different sensor outputs. To ensure the reliability of the measurements, the calibration of sensors below a few Hz, where traceable calibration has not been verified, is required. This paper presents a specialized calibration system designed for infrasonic frequencies. Inspired by a liquid-column manometer, this system uniquely uses the low-frequency vibration of the liquid-column to generate sound pressure, offering three distinct advantages. First, dissimilar to the existing calibration methods, this method eliminates sound pressure leakage by sealing an open end of a closed cylinder with liquid. In addition, the influence of heat conduction is mitigated by direct measurement of the liquid level fluctuation. Finally, the generated sound pressure can be simply calculated if the water level difference in and outside the cylinder is known. Two types of microphones, Brüel & Kjær (BK) Types 4160 and 4193, were calibrated within a frequency range of 0.01 Hz–2 Hz. The results demonstrated that the pressure sensitivity of BK Type 4160 calibrated by this method agreed with the sensitivity calibrated by the laser pistonphone method within 0.1 dB at 0.5 Hz. Furthermore, at lower frequencies, the frequency response calibrated using the proposed method was consistent with the response evaluated by comparison with a barometer. Similar results were obtained for the free-field sensitivity of BK Type 4193. The study findings confirmed the ability of the proposed system to calibrate different types of microphones.
Study on after-pulses of FPMTs
Authors: Chen Lingyue , Ma Lishuang , Huang Guorui , Hua Zhehao , Jin Muchun , Jin Zhen , Qian Sen , Ren Ling , Si Shuguang , Sun Jianning , Wu Qi , Wang Xingchao , Wang Yifang , Wang Zhi , Wang Ning , Wu Kai , Zhang Haoda ,   the MCP-PMT workgroup
Published: October 2024

The small-sized Micro-Channel Plate Photomultiplier Tube
(MCP-PMT), also called Fast-timing PMT (FPMT), has gained
significant attention across various fields due to its single-photon
detection capability and great time resolution. The after-pulses are
spurious pulses occurring after the main pulse and cannot be
distinguished from the true signals, which means the occurrence of
the after-pulses can contribute to the noise of the FPMT. In this
study, the waveforms of the FPMTs were recorded by a
high-sampling-rate oscilloscope, and we measured the after-pulse
characteristics of different types of FPMTs, including the time
distribution and the after-pulse rate. The causes of different
after-pulse groups are also analyzed. Additionally, we conducted a
comparative analysis of the distinct properties of after-pulses in
different types of FPMTs.
One-shot manufacturable soft-robotic pump inspired by embryonic tubular heart
Authors: Lee Kyoung Jin , Lee Jung Chan
Published: October 2024

Soft peristaltic pumps, which use soft ring actuators instead of mechanical pistons or rollers, offer advantages in transporting liquids with non-uniform solids, such as slurry, food, and sewage. Recent advances in 3D printing with flexible thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) present the potential for single-step fabrication of these pumps, distinguished from handcrafted, multistep traditional silicone casting methods. However, because of the relatively high hardness of TPU, TPU-based soft peristaltic pumps contract insufficiently and thus cannot perform as well as silicone-based ones. Improving the performance is crucial for fully automated, one-step manufactured soft pumps to lead to industrial use. This study aims to enhance TPU-based soft pumps through bioinspired design. Specifically, it proposed a design inspired by embryonic tubular hearts, in contrast to previous studies that mimicked digestive tracts. The new design facilitated long-axis stretching of an elliptical lumen during non-concentric contractile motion, akin to embryonic tubular hearts. The design was optimized for ring actuators and pumps 3D-printed with shore hardness 85 A TPU filament. The ring actuator achieved over 99% lumen closure with the best designs. The soft pumps transported water at flow rates of up to 218 ml min−1 and generated a maximum discharge pressure of 355 mm Hg, comparable to the performance of blood pumps used in continuous renal replacement therapy.
Impact of the Russian invasion on wheat biomass in Ukraine
Authors: Antonenko Veronika , Bitar Ahmad Al , Danylenko Iuliia , Wijmer Taeken , Colin Jérôme , Dejoux Jean-François , Lefebvre Antoine , Knibbe Maxime , Ceschia Eric , Gascoin Simon
Published: October 2024

Ukraine was the seventh-biggest worldwide producer of wheat in 2021 before the Russian invasion. The war caused a disruption of the global wheat market but the impact on the different levels of the production chain remains unclear. Here we leverage high resolution satellite imagery and crop modeling to analyze specifically the impact of the war on the evolution of the dry aboveground biomass in wheat fields. We compare the Kherson region, a battlefield occupied by the Russian army in 2022 with the Poltava region which was not invaded. We also compare the wheat biomass in both regions in 2022 with the two previous years before the war. We find that the wheat biomass sharply declined in the Kherson region in 2022 only. We interpret this result as a consequence of the abandonment of invaded land by farmers. The lack of agricultural management, in particular the lack of fertilization and irrigation could explain the reduced crop growth in summer, thereby contributing to shortages in the wheat production chain.
Smallholder RSPO certification, economic benefits and agrochemical use
Authors: Renner Sebastian , Ruml Anette , Lakemann Tabea , Nuryartono Nunung , Tjoa Aiyen , Corre Marife D , Lay Jann
Published: October 2024

Sustainability standards, such as the Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), can potentially mitigate the trade-offs between economic benefits and environmental harm of oil palm expansion. Using unique primary household and farm level panel data collected from Jambi Province, Indonesia, we first document the differences in agricultural inputs and outputs between certified and non-certified smallholder farmers. Second, we illustrate the potential implications and mechanisms of certification. In this study, therefore, we aim to first document agricultural input and output differences between certified and non-certified smallholder farmers, second to illustrate potential effects of certification with observational data and third to provide guidance for future rigorous causal analyses. We find generally positive correlations between RSPO certification, land productivity, profits, and fertilizer use, and a negative correlation with toxic herbicide use. However, we do not find price premiums for RSPO-certified farmers. Overall, the results of this study are indicative of potentially modest effects of RSPO-certification that may operate through higher productivity due to improved management practices that remain agrochemical intensive but avoid some particularly harmful chemicals. Our findings are relevant to better understand the strong sustainability claims of RSPO marketing and to provide guidance for rigorous causal experimental and quasi-experimental studies.
Significant shift of footprint patterns and pollutant source contributions: insights from observations at Shanghuang observatory, East China
Authors: Ye Jing , Zhang Yuting , Yao Weijie , Liu Hang , Lei Shandong , Zhang Yinzhou , Zhang Junbo , Li Sinan , Lv Song , Wu Lin , Tang Xiao , Sun Yele , Xin Jinyuan , Li Jie , Wang Zifa , Liu Lanzhong , Su Hang , Pan Xiaole
Published: October 2024

As two of the most important products of the combustion process, carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) are commonly used as tracers for combustion source assignment. Their relationship will help to better understand the regional carbon cycle and assess climate forcing effects. In this study, mixing ratios of CO2 and CO were continuously measured using a Picarro gas concentration analyzer at the Atmospheric Boundary Layer Eco-Environmental Shanghuang Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences (ABLECAS) throughout 2022–2023. The variability of the mixing ratio of CO to CO2 (ΔCO/ΔCO2) in a 1 h time interval was calculated based on linear slope analysis after background values were determined and subtracted. The results showed that the mixing ratio of CO had a clear seasonal variability with a moderate increase in the spring (249.1 ± 59.6 part per billion (ppb)) and winter (257.8 ± 90.3 ppb), mostly due to more frequent transport from north of the Yangtze River. ΔCO/ΔCO2 at the ABLECAS varied with air mass origin, with a linear slope 0%–1% on a 1 h basis. Relatively high ΔCO/ΔCO2 values for an air mass from the north in the winter indicate that the emission sources had lower combustion efficiency. In summer, the ΔCO/ΔCO2 ratio mostly reflected the background conditions for air masses from marine areas. The potential source regions and contribution assignments were evaluatedat the ABLECAS according to source–receptor relationship analysis using the FLEXPART model with CO as a pollutant tracer from 2015 to 2023. We found that the footprint of an air mass had a clear transition period between 2018 and 2019, and a synoptic anomaly, related to Arctic Oscillation strength and west Pacific subtropical high position, plays a key role in influencing the pollutant transport patterns. This study provides a scientific basis for the formulation of air quality regulation policy, and helps to implement the national carbon neutralization strategy.
Application of electron beam melting method for recycling of tantalum scrap
Authors: Vutova Katia , Stefanova Vladislava , Iliev Peter
Published: October 2024

The paper presents a study on the refining efficiency of tantalum scrap when applying the electron beam melting method to recycle tantalum material. Thermodynamic analysis and experimental tests were carried out at different technological regimes to determine the optimal conditions for obtaining tantalum with high purity. The behavior of the controlled impurities (W, Nb, Mn, Ce, Cr, Mo, Al, Fe, etc) and the influence of the thermodynamic and kinetic technological parameters (temperature, melting time) on the refining efficiency of the studied material were investigated. At a temperature of 3700 K and a melting time of 10 min, the highest overall degree of refinement of 98.82% and the highest tantalum purity of 99.987% were achieved.
Performance for CO gas sensing of janus ReSSe monolayer doped with Fe, Ru and Os from first principles calculation
Authors: Zhu Jianguo , Ma Bo , Chen Yeting , Shi Diwei
Published: October 2024

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have many excellent properties as promising class of two-dimensional materials. In this study, we conducted rigorous calculations utilizing density functional theory to evaluate the potential of Janus ReSSe monolayers, doped with transition metals such as Fe, Ru, and Os, in gas-sensitive applications specifically targeting CO detection. Three stable structures of X-Re15S16Se16 Janus doped with X elements (X = Fe, Os, Ru) were designed. Our findings indicate that the C atom of the CO molecule exhibits a higher affinity for adsorbing onto the X (X = Fe, Os, Ru) transition metal atoms, forming robust X–C bonds, rather than the O atom. Among these bonds, the Os-C bond exhibits the strongest bonding states, followed by the Ru-C bond, while the Fe-C bond behaves the weakest. Notably, the d-orbital peaks of the X (X = Fe, Os, Ru) transition metals display distinct bonding strengths with the C atom. This research may provide a theoretical foundation for the development of new gas sensors based on two-dimensional materials.
Tempering behavior and mechanical properties of tempered AISI H13 steel
Authors: Kwon Gi-Hoon , Choi Byoungho , Lee Young-Kook , Moon Kyoung Il
Published: October 2024

Microstructural evolutions of AISI H13 steel during tempering were quantitatively investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffractometer (XRD), impact test machine, rockwell hardness tester, ball-on-disk tester in order to describe the main mechanism of softening. Under the condition that the tempering time is 2 h, the hardness increases slightly as the tempering temperature increases, but decreases rapidly when the tempering temperature exceeds 500 °C, while the impact energy increases in proportion to the tempering temperature. Friction tests were conducted in dry condition with a load of 30 N, and the friction coefficient and wear rate according to tempering conditions were measured to prove the correlation with hardness and microstructure. In addition, primary tempering from 300 °C to 700 °C was performed at various times to establish a kinetic model to predict hardness under specific tempering conditions.
Plasticity and phase transition in ramp-compressed single-crystal zirconium
Authors: Adamou I , Amadou N , Nassirou Hassan M A , Moussa Hassane A , Batouré A
Published: October 2024

Non-Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics Simulations have been used to investigate plasticity and phase transition in single-crystal zirconium under ramp compression, with piston maximum velocities ranging from 600 to 1400m.s
−1. The zirconium is found to yield via twinning deformation. Then, a direct transition from the α-phase to the high-pressure β-phase is observed, in agreement with recent experimental observations, under picosecond laser compression using ultrafast x-ray diffraction diagnostics. As the maximum ramp velocity is increased from 600 to 1400m.s
−1, the onset pressure of the phase transition is found to evolve from 22.6 ± 0.15 to 24.1 ± 0.4 GPa while the increase in the temperature behind the phase transition front varies from 179 ± 6 to 784 ± 48 K. The mechanism of this transition at the atomic level is consistent with the Burgers mechanism. Since the transition occurs after twinning plastic deformation, a sizeable fraction of fcc atoms is observed, which increases as the ramp evolves into a shock wave. These observations are consistent with previous theoretical simulations and experiments and contribute to understanding the response of single-crystal zirconium under dynamic compression.
Zero momentum topological insulator in 2D semi-Dirac materials
Authors: García Olmos Marta , Baba Yuriko , Amado Mario , Molina Rafael A
Published: October 2024

Semi-Dirac materials in 2D present an anisotropic dispersion relation, linear along one direction and quadratic along the perpendicular one. This study explores the topological properties and the influence of disorder in a 2D semi-Dirac Hamiltonian. Energy-dependent edge states appear only in one direction, localized on either the upper or lower edge of the nanoribbon determined by their particle or hole character. Their topological protection can be rigorously founded on the Zak phase of the one-dimensional reduction of the semi-Dirac Hamiltonian, that depends parametrically on one of the momenta. In general, only a single value of the momentum, corresponding to a zero energy mode, is topologically protected. We explore the dependence on the disorder of the edge states and the robustness of the topological protection in these materials. We also explore the consequences of the topological protection of the zero-momentum state in the transport properties for a two-terminal configuration.
An efficient hardware implementation of SHA-3 using 3D cellular automata for secure blockchain-based IoT systems
Authors: Guitouni Zied , Ammar Noeman , Machhout Mohsen
Published: October 2024

This paper introduces an innovative hardware implementation of the Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA-3) using three-dimensional cellular automata (3D-CA) for secure blockchain-based IoT systems. Our approach optimizes the SHA-3 algorithm by leveraging the parallel processing capabilities of 3D-CA, addressing the computational challenges in resource-constrained Internet of Things (IoT) environments. Our proposed design is implemented on various Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) circuits. The obtained results demonstrate the potential of our design to address the demands of blockchain-based IoT systems effectively. Furthermore, a comparative analysis reveals that our hardware implementation offers competitive performance compared to previous works. To ensure security and validate output randomness, the design undergoes rigorous evaluation using the Strict Avalanche Criterion (SAC) and the NIST Statistical Test Suite (STS). The results demonstrate that the proposed architecture exhibits high sensitivity to input changes while maintaining robust resistance against cryptanalytic attacks.
Drilling parameter optimisation for three-dimensional prints of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
Authors: Gupta Neel Kamal , Bhatt Shaurya , Rakesh Pawan Kumar
Published: October 2024

Over the past decade, additive manufacturing has transformed the industry, leading to a range of innovative products. In this study, the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene specimen was produced using the fused deposition modeling process. To assess the effectiveness of additive manufacturing parts in final product development, it’s crucial to establish the optimal drilling process parameters to minimize thrust force and torque. The investigation utilized two different drill geometries. Drilling with an end mill resulted in a 24.22% reduction in thrust force and a 12.37% decrease in torque compared to using a twist drill. Additionally, factors such as orientation, infill density, feed rate, and drill geometry have a significant impact on drilling forces.
How many ideals whose quotient rings are Gorenstein exist?
Authors: Endo Naoki
Published: October 2024

For an Ulrich ideal in a Gorenstein local ring, the quotient ring is again Gorenstein. Aiming to further develop the theory of Ulrich ideals, this paper investigates a naive question of how many non-principal ideals whose quotient rings are Gorenstein exist in a given Gorenstein ring. The main result provides that the number of such graded ideals in a symmetric numerical semigroup ring

R
R

coincides with the conductor of the semigroup. We furthermore provide a complete list of non-principal graded ideals

I
I

in

R
R

whose quotient rings

R

/

I

R/I

are Gorenstein.
Killing fields on compact 𝑚-quasi-Einstein manifolds
Authors: Cochran Eric
Published: October 2024

We show that given a compact, connected

m
m

-quasi Einstein manifold

(
M
,
g
,
X
)

(M,g,X)

without boundary, the potential vector field

X
X

is Killing if and only if

(
M
,
g
)

(M, g)

has constant scalar curvature. This extends a result of Bahuaud-Gunasekaran-Kunduri-Woolgar, where it is shown that

X
X

is Killing if

X
X

is incompressible. We also provide a sufficient condition for a compact, non-gradient

m
m

-quasi Einstein metric to admit a Killing field. We do this by following a technique of Dunajski and Lucietti, who prove that a Killing field always exists in this case when

m
=
2

m=2

. This condition provides an alternate proof of the aforementioned result of Bahuaud-Gunasekaran-Kunduri-Woolgar. This alternate proof works in the

m
=
−
2

m = -2

case as well, which was not covered in the original proof.
Zero exclusion sectors for polynomials whose coefficients exhibit a +/-/+ sign pattern
Authors: Melman Aaron
Published: October 2024

The zeros of polynomials whose coefficients exhibit a +/-/+ sign pattern are sometimes excluded from sectors in the complex plane. It is shown how to obtain such sectors, as well as the number of zeros that lie between the sectors, along with bounds on their magnitudes. The results are illustrated with an application to polynomial eigenvalue problems.
Positive solutions of a critical equation in sub-Finsler geometry
Authors: Garofalo Nicola , Salani Paolo
Published: October 2024

We compute a two-parameter family of explicit positive solutions of a critical Yamabe type equation for a nonlinear operator that sits at the intersection of Finsler and sub-Riemannian geometry.
Front propagation near the onset of instability
Authors: Avery Montie
Published: October 2024

We describe the resulting spatiotemporal dynamics when a homogeneous equilibrium loses stability in a spatially extended system. More precisely, we consider reaction-diffusion systems, assuming only that the reaction kinetics undergo a transcritical, saddle-node, or supercritical pitchfork bifurcation as a parameter passes through zero. We construct traveling front solutions which describe the invasion of the now-unstable state by a nearby stable state. We show that these fronts are marginally spectrally stable near the bifurcation point, which, together with recent advances in the theory of front propagation into unstable states, establishes that these fronts govern the dynamics of localized perturbation to the unstable state. Our proofs are based on functional analytic tools to study the existence and eigenvalue problems for fronts, which become singularly perturbed after a natural rescaling.