bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined influence of airflows and a parallel magnetic field on the discharge characteristics of AC dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Wang Yu-Ying , Yan Hui-Jie , Li Ting , Bai Xiao-Dong , Wang Xiao , Song Jian , Zhang Quan-Zhi
Published: August 2023

The combined influence of airflows and a parallel magnetic field on an AC-driven dielectric barrier discharge plasma is experimentally investigated through image analyses, electrical measurements, and optical diagnoses. After applying a parallel magnetic field, more discharge filaments are generated during one discharge cycle. Besides, the electrical and optical diagnoses show that the magnetic field can increase the plasma parameters, such as the electron temperature and electron density. When airflows and a parallel magnetic field are applied in combination, the discharge uniformity presented in the long-exposure images is significantly enhanced by the airflows and slightly improved by the magnetic field. With increasing airflow velocity, the distribution of discharge filaments goes through four phases, namely, spot-like distribution, line-like distribution, cotton-like distribution, and stripe-like distribution, among which the stripe-like distribution exhibits the highest discharge uniformity. High-speed video analyses reveal that the improved discharge uniformity can be attributed to the changed breakdown positions and the increased number of filaments. Although airflow can significantly improve the macroscopic uniformity of the discharge, it leads to a decrease in the maximum current pulse amplitude, electron temperature, electron density, and gas temperature. Applying a magnetic field in flowing air can not only improve the discharge uniformity but also ensure that the discharge has high maximum current pulse amplitude intensity, electron temperature, and electron density. Based on the analyses of the electron trajectory and the estimation of the force condition of the micro-discharge remnants, the modulated charged particles, reduced electric field, and pre-ionization degree are responsible for the changed discharge uniformity and plasma parameters in the parallel magnetic field and flowing air.
Young’s modulus of V3O5 thin films
Authors: Nieves Christian , Verbel Camilo , Lysenko Sergiy , Fernández Félix E. , Rúa Armando
Published: August 2023

Vanadium oxide V3O5 exhibits an insulator-to-metal transition (IMT) near 430 K, which is the highest value for all vanadium oxides exhibiting IMTs. This makes it interesting for advanced electronic applications. However, the properties of V3O5 have been little studied, and, in particular, there are no reports of experimentally determined mechanical properties. In this work, Young’s modulus of sputter-deposited V3O5 thin films has been determined by measuring the fundamental resonant frequency of V3O5-coated silicon microcantilevers using a laser beam deflection technique. After deposition, the films were characterized by x-ray diffraction, resistivity measurements, and atomic force microscopy. The value of Young’s modulus experimentally determined for V3O5 was 198 ± 14 GPa, which is slightly lower than the computationally derived values for bulk crystal V3O5.
Innovative measurement and noise reduction of voltage coupling in shielded cables for enhanced signal integrity
Authors: Charishma Pathala Venkata Sai , Pappu V. Y. Jayasree
Published: August 2023

The reliable transmission of electrical signals through shielded cables in the presence of electromagnetic interference (EMI) remains a critical challenge for signal integrity. This paper presents a novel and comprehensive approach for measuring and reducing voltage coupling in shielded cables connected to a shielded room from a waveguide. Additionally, we introduce an innovative active EMI filter to effectively mitigate common-mode (CM) and differential-mode (DM) noises, thereby enhancing the overall signal quality. To address the issue of voltage coupling, an open circuit method with a transmission line is considered for the measurement of output voltage at the end of the shielded cable. In order to assess the impact of EMI on transmitted signals, we utilize a state-of-the-art noise separator that enables precise differentiation and characterization of CM and DM noise components. This analysis provides valuable insights into the overall noise profile, guiding the subsequent steps toward noise reduction. An active EMI filter was designed to effectively attenuate the unwanted noise. The filter intelligently targets and mitigates both CM and DM noises, resulting in improved signal integrity. The experimental setup encompasses a shielded room, shielded cables, a waveguide, and the equipment. The obtained output voltage from the shielded cable is 495 V. It is given as an input to the equipment (Cuk converter). The noises are generated when the input voltage is given; the noises are separated by using a noise separator. CM noise obtained at the output of an active noise separator is 118.8 dBµV. DM noise obtained at the output of a differential mode noise separator is 115.8 dBµV. With the active EMI filter, we achieve remarkable reductions in CM and DM noise levels. After adding a filter to the circuit, the noises are reduced below the limit line according to the International Special Committee on Radio Interference standard; the CM noise is 44.8 dBµV and the DM noise is 47.8 dBµV.
Cellular uptake and biotransformation of arsenate by freshwater phytoplankton under salinity gradient revealed by single-cell ICP-MS and CT-HG-AAS
Authors: Alam Md Shah , Fujisawa Shogo , Zuka Masahiko , Zai Yinghan , Mashio Asami S. , Rahman Ismail M. M. , Wong Kuo H. , Hasegawa Hiroshi
Published: August 2023

Environmental context Freshwater phytoplankton are involved in the biogeochemical cycling of arsenic within aquatic ecosystems via uptake processes. Rather than determining the mean arsenic content in a population of freshwater phytoplankton, we investigate the heterogeneity of arsenic uptake by single-cell ICP-MS. Our data show that arsenic distribution within a cell population may be highly heterogeneous, measured at the femtogram per cell level, and are affected by species and salinity. Rationale An advanced technique has been developed for analysing intracellular elements at the single-cell level using single-cell inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SC-ICP-MS). Compared with conventional inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis, SC-ICP-MS provides uptake data with greater biological relevance. In this study, the use of SC-ICP-MS enabled the quantification of metal concentrations on an individual cell basis down to the femtogram (fg) per cell level. Methodology Three freshwater phytoplankton cells, namely Staurastrum paradoxum (S. paradoxum), Pediastrum duplex (P. duplex) and Scenedesmus acutus (S. acutus), were incubated in 0.1 µmol L−1 arsenate (AsV) solution for 14 days at varying salinity. Cold trap hydride generator atomic absorption spectrometry (CT-HG-AAS) was used to investigate the biotransformation of arsenate under varying salinity conditions. Results The results reveal that cellular arsenic levels decreased as salinity increased in P. duplex and S. paradoxum but increased in S. acutus. The SC-ICP-MS data, which show uptake of AsV by freshwater phytoplankton, were in good agreement with those produced using ICP-MS analysis. Various arsenic management strategies were seen in the phytoplankton species: P. duplex converted it to methylated forms; S. acutus produced organoarsenicals; and S. paradoxum reduced arsenate (AsV) to arsenite (AsIII) and excreted it. Our study also showed changes in the physiological status of phytoplankton following salt stress and arsenic exposure. Discussion Our results confirm the efficacy of SC-ICP-MS in precisely determining arsenic distribution at the single-cell level and reveal differences in intraspecies mechanisms for arsenic cycling in freshwater ecosystems.
Mpox (monkeypox) knowledge, concern, willingness to change behaviour, and seek vaccination: results of a national cross-sectional survey
Authors: MacGibbon James , Cornelisse Vincent J. , Smith Anthony K. J. , Broady Timothy R. , Hammoud Mohamed A. , Bavinton Benjamin R. , Heath-Paynter Dash , Vaughan Matthew , Wright Edwina J. , Holt Martin
Published: August 2023

Background In mid-2022, a global mpox (formerly ‘monkeypox’) outbreak affecting predominantly gay and bisexual men emerged in non-endemic countries. Australia had never previously recorded mpox cases and there was no prior research on knowledge or attitudes to mpox among gay and bisexual men across Australia. Methods We conducted a national, online cross-sectional survey between August 2022 and September 2022. Participants were recruited through community organisation promotions, online advertising, and direct email invitations. Eligible participants were gay, bisexual or queer; identified as male (cisgender or transgender) or non-binary; aged 16 years or older; and lived in Australia. The main outcome measures were: knowledge and concern about mpox; recognition of mpox symptoms and transmission routes; vaccination history; acceptability of behavioural changes to reduce mpox risk, and willingness to be vaccinated. Results Of 2287 participants, most participants were male (2189/2287; 95.7%) and gay (1894/2287; 82.8%). Nearly all had heard about mpox (2255/2287; 98.6%), and the majority were concerned about acquiring it (1461/2287; 64.4%). Most of the 2268 participants not previously diagnosed with mpox correctly identified skin lesions (2087; 92%), rash (1977; 87.2%), and fever (1647; 72.6%) as potential symptoms, and prolonged and brief skin-to-skin contact as potential ways to acquire mpox (2124, 93.7%; and 1860, 82%, respectively). The most acceptable behavioural changes were reducing or avoiding attendance at sex parties (1494; 65.9%) and sex-on-premises venues (1503; 66.4%), and having fewer sexual partners (1466; 64.6%). Most unvaccinated and undiagnosed participants were willing to be vaccinated (1457/1733; 84.1%). Conclusions People at risk of mpox should be supported to adopt acceptable risk reduction strategies during outbreaks and to seek vaccination.
An overview of oxidation in hybrid and glass-based protective coatings for thermoelectric materials for medium-temperature range applications
Authors: D'Isanto F. , Smeacetto F. , Reece M. J. , Salvo M.
Published: August 2023

Several oxidation protective coatings, both glass-based and ceramic/polymer hybrid coatings, for p- and n-type thermoelectrics were designed at the Politecnico di Torino in recent years, and they were characterised and tested under relevant conditions. The ‘glass-ceramic route’ to obtain a thermo-mechanical compatible and high-temperature resistant coated thermoelectric is discussed with some examples. Oxidation tests demonstrated the effectiveness of the coatings for the protection of both n- and p-type thermoelectrics.
Differential sensitivity of ADF isovariants to a pH gradient promotes pollen tube growth
Authors: Wang Juan , Shen Jiangfeng , Xu Yanan , Jiang Yuxiang , Qu Xiaolu , Zhao Wanying , Wang Yingjie , Huang Shanjin
Published: August 2023

The actin cytoskeleton is one of the targets of the pH gradient in tip-growing cells, but how cytosolic pH regulates the actin cytoskeleton remains largely unknown. We here demonstrate that Arabidopsis ADF7 and ADF10 function optimally at different pH levels when disassembling actin filaments. This differential pH sensitivity allows ADF7 and ADF10 to respond to the cytosolic pH gradient to regulate actin dynamics in pollen tubes. ADF7 is an unusual actin-depolymerizing factor with a low optimum pH in in vitro actin depolymerization assays. ADF7 plays a dominant role in promoting actin turnover at the pollen tube apex. ADF10 has a typically high optimum pH in in vitro assays and plays a dominant role in regulating the turnover and organization of subapical actin filaments. Thus, functional specification and cooperation of ADF isovariants with different pH sensitivities enable the coordination of the actin cytoskeleton with the cytosolic pH gradient to support pollen tube growth.
Dirac signal processing of higher-order topological signals
Authors: Calmon Lucille , Schaub Michael T , Bianconi Ginestra
Published: August 2023

Higher-order networks can sustain topological signals which are variables associated not only to the nodes, but also to the links, to the triangles and in general to the higher dimensional simplices of simplicial complexes. These topological signals can describe a large variety of real systems including currents in the ocean, synaptic currents between neurons and biological transportation networks. In real scenarios topological signal data might be noisy and an important task is to process these signals by improving their signal to noise ratio. So far topological signals are typically processed independently of each other. For instance, node signals are processed independently of link signals, and algorithms that can enforce a consistent processing of topological signals across different dimensions are largely lacking. Here we propose Dirac signal processing, an adaptive, unsupervised signal processing algorithm that learns to jointly filter topological signals supported on nodes, links and triangles of simplicial complexes in a consistent way. The proposed Dirac signal processing algorithm is formulated in terms of the discrete Dirac operator which can be interpreted as ‘square root’ of a higher-order Hodge Laplacian. We discuss in detail the properties of the Dirac operator including its spectrum and the chirality of its eigenvectors and we adopt this operator to formulate Dirac signal processing that can filter noisy signals defined on nodes, links and triangles of simplicial complexes. We test our algorithms on noisy synthetic data and noisy data of drifters in the ocean and find that the algorithm can learn to efficiently reconstruct the true signals outperforming algorithms based exclusively on the Hodge Laplacian.
Production of reduced graphene oxide from activated rice husk charcoal using a high-energy ball milling method
Authors: Widanarto Wahyu , Romdhony Fahriz , Cahyanto Wahyu Tri , Sari Kartika , Ghoshal Sib Krishna , Kurniawan Candra
Published: August 2023

Production of high-quality graphene at a commercial scale with low cost remains challenging. Thus, we used a high-energy ball milling approach to make reduced graphene oxide (rGO) from activated rice husk charcoal as an enriched carbon source. The as-produced rGO samples were characterized to determine the effect of various milling times (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 min) on their structure, morphology, specific surface area, pores volume, and size distribution. The variation in the ball milling times was found to introduce the structural defects and remove the oxygen functional groups, thus improving the overall characteristics of the obtained rGO. The wrinkle sheet-like structures of rGO evolved into numerous paper balls-like transparent rumple morphologies due to the milling process-enabled compression mechanism. In addition, due to the increase of milling times, the amount of carbon in rGO was increased to 89.9 atomic%, and oxygen was reduced to 9.3 atomic%, wherein the thermal agitation-mediated collisions of particles played a significant role. The specific surface area (121.483 m2 g−1) and pore volume (0.133 cm3 g−1) of rGO prepared at a milling time of 50 min were observed to be optimum. It was asserted that a high-energy ball milling technique with controlled milling times could help produce high-quality rGO from activated rice husk charcoal at low cost, leading to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly material required for diverse applications.
Saving CNB assisted EDE model at the expense of quantum corrections?
Authors: Maziashvili Michael
Published: August 2023

As it is suggested in [1,2], one can dynamically introduce the coincidence time-scale for EDE in the framework of a particular mass-varying-neutrino-model as a time at which neutrinos constituting the cosmic neutrino background enter the non-relativistic regime. The model does not predict, however, the right amount of EDE density because of smallness of neutrino masses. One may hope to adjust the parameters in such a way as to ensure that the two-loop contributions are kept small while at the same time the effective mass for scalar field that enters the expression of zero-point-energy (for the field trapped in the minimum of effective potential) is sufficient for explaining the needed amount of EDE. Unfortunately, the answer is not in the affirmative.
Dark matter spikes around Sgr A* in γ-rays
Authors: Balaji Shyam , Sachdeva Divya , Sala Filippo , Silk Joseph
Published: August 2023

We use H.E.S.S.γ-ray observations of Sgr A* to derive novel limits on the Dark Matter (DM) annihilation cross-section. We quantify their dependence on uncertainties i) in the DM halo profile, which we vary from peaked to cored, and ii) in the shape of the DM spike around Sgr A*, dynamically heated by the nuclear star cluster. For peaked halo profiles and depending on the heating of the spike, our limits are the strongest existing ones for DM masses above a few TeV. Our study contributes to assessing the influence of the advancements in our knowledge of the Milky Way on determining the properties of DM particles.
Nonlinear and non-CP gates for Bloch vector amplification
Authors: Geller Michael R
Published: August 2023

Any state
r
= (x, y, z) of a qubit, written in the Pauli basis and initialized in the pure state
r
= (0, 0, 1), can be prepared by composing three quantum operations: two unitary rotation gates to reach a pure state

r
=

x

2

+

y

2

+

z

2

−

1

2

×
(
x
,
y
,
z
)

on the Bloch sphere, followed by a depolarization gate to decrease ∣
r
∣. Here we discuss the complementary state-preparation protocol for qubits initialized at the center of the Bloch ball,
r
= 0, based on increasing or amplifying ∣
r
∣ to its desired value, then rotating. Bloch vector amplification increases purity and decreases entropy. Amplification can be achieved with a linear Markovian completely positive trace-preserving (CPTP) channel by placing the channel’s fixed point away from
r
= 0, making it nonunital, but the resulting gate suffers from a critical slowing down as that fixed point is approached. Here we consider alternative designs based on linear and nonlinear Markovian PTP channels, which offer benefits relative to linear CPTP channels, namely fast Bloch vector amplification without deceleration. These gates simulate a reversal of the thermodynamic arrow of time for the qubit and would provide striking experimental demonstrations of non-CP dynamics.
A quantum homomorphic signature scheme with verifiable identity based on four-particle Cluster states
Authors: Chen Teng , Lu Dianjun , Deng Zhiming , Mou Huajian
Published: August 2023

With the development of cloud computing in recent years, homomorphic signatures have become a research hotspot in modern cryptography. This article proposes a quantum homomorphic signature scheme with verifiable identity based on four-particle Cluster states, starting from the identity verification of the signers. Compared with Shang’s scheme (Shang et al 2015 Quantum Inf. Process.
14 393–410), our scheme uses four-particle Cluster states as quantum channels and achieves identity verification of the signers through the use of X operation and quantum measurement techniques. Meanwhile, our scheme extends the length of message M to 2n bits and uses random numbers during the signature process, which makes the scheme more secure. Security analysis shows that our scheme can ensure the security of the keys and the unforgeability of the signatures.
Preparation of squeezed light with low average photon number based on dynamic Casimir effect
Authors: Li 李 Na 娜 , Lin 林 Zi-Jian 资鉴 , Wei 韦 Mei-Song 梅松 , Liao 廖 Ming-Jie 明杰 , Xu 许 Jing-Ping 静平 , Ke 柯 San-Huang 三黄 , Yang 羊 Ya-Ping 亚平
Published: August 2023

It is well known that squeezed states can be produced by nonlinear optical processes, such as parametric amplification and four wave mixing, in which two photons are created or annihilated simultaneously. Since the Hamiltonian of the dynamic Casimir effect contains a
2 and a
+2, photons in such a process are also generated or annihilated in pairs. Here we propose to get squeezed light through the dynamic Casimir effect. Specifically, we demonstrate it from the full quantum perspective and the semiclassical perspective successively. Different from previous work, we focus on generating squeezed states with the lowest average photon number, because such squeezed states have better quantum properties. For the full quantum picture, that is, phonons also have quantum properties, when the system is initially in the excited state of phonons, squeezed light cannot be generated during the evolution, but the light field can collapse to the squeezed state by measuring the state of phonons. When the phonon is treated as a classical quantity, that is, the cavity wall is continuously driven, squeezed light with the minimum average photon number will be generated in the case of off-resonance. This will play a positive role in better regulating the photon state generated by the dynamic Casimir system in the future.
Parameterized monogamy and polygamy relations of multipartite entanglement
Authors: Shen 沈 Zhong-Xi 中喜 , Wang 王 Ke-Ke 珂珂 , Fei 费 Shao-Ming 少明
Published: August 2023

Monogamy and polygamy relations are important properties of entanglement, which characterize the entanglement distribution of multipartite systems. We explore monogamy and polygamy relations of entanglement in multipartite systems by using two newly derived parameterized mathematical inequalities, and establish classes of parameterized monogamy and polygamy relations of multiqubit entanglement in terms of concurrence and entanglement of formation. We show that these new parameterized monogamy and poelygamy inequalities are tighter than the existing ones by detailed examples.
Interfacial photoconductivity effect of type-I and type-II Sb2Se3/Si heterojunctions for THz wave modulation
Authors: Cao 曹 Xue-Qin 雪芹 , Huang 黄 Yuan-Yuan 媛媛 , Xi 席 Ya-Yan 亚妍 , Lei 雷 Zhen 珍 , Wang 王 Jing 静 , Liu 刘 Hao-Nan 昊楠 , Shi 史 Ming-Jian 明坚 , Han 韩 Tao-Tao 涛涛 , Zhang 张 Meng-En 蒙恩 , Xu 徐 Xin-Long 新龙
Published: August 2023

An in-depth understanding of the photoconductivity and photocarrier density at the interface is of great significance for improving the performance of optoelectronic devices. However, extraction of the photoconductivity and photocarrier density at the heterojunction interface remains elusive. Herein, we have obtained the photoconductivity and photocarrier density of 173 nm Sb2Se3/Si (type-I heterojunction) and 90 nm Sb2Se3/Si (type-II heterojunction) utilizing terahertz (THz) time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) and a theoretical Drude model. Since type-I heterojunctions accelerate carrier recombination and type-II heterojunctions accelerate carrier separation, the photoconductivity and photocarrier density of the type-II heterojunction (21.8 × 104 S⋅m−1, 1.5 × 1015 cm−3) are higher than those of the type-I heterojunction (11.8 × 104 S⋅m−1, 0.8 × 1015 cm−3). These results demonstrate that a type-II heterojunction is superior to a type-I heterojunction for THz wave modulation. This work highlights THz-TDS as an effective tool for studying photoconductivity and photocarrier density at the heterojunction interface. In turn, the intriguing interfacial photoconductivity effect provides a way to improve the THz wave modulation performance.
Long-range interacting Stark many-body probes with super-Heisenberg precision
Authors: Yousefjani Rozhin , He 何 Xingjian 行健 , Bayat Abolfazl
Published: August 2023

In contrast to interferometry-based quantum sensing, where interparticle interaction is detrimental, quantum many-body probes exploit such interactions to achieve quantum-enhanced sensitivity. In most of the studied quantum many-body probes, the interaction is considered to be short-ranged. Here, we investigate the impact of long-range interaction at various filling factors on the performance of Stark quantum probes for measuring a small gradient field. These probes harness the ground state Stark localization phase transition which happens at an infinitesimal gradient field as the system size increases. Our results show that while super-Heisenberg precision is always achievable in all ranges of interaction, the long-range interacting Stark probe reveals two distinct behaviors. First, by algebraically increasing the range of interaction, the localization power is enhanced and thus the sensitivity of the probe decreases. Second, as the interaction range becomes close to a fully connected graph its effective localization power disappears and thus the sensitivity of the probe starts to enhance again. The super-Heisenberg precision is achievable throughout the extended phase until the transition point and remains valid even when the state preparation time is incorporated in the resource analysis. As the probe enters the localized phase, the sensitivity decreases and its performance becomes size-independent, following a universal behavior. In addition, our analysis shows that lower filling factors lead to better precision for measuring weak gradient fields.
Constraining the
cosmological model using recent observational data*
Authors: Myrzakulov N. , Koussour M. , Alfedeel Alnadhief H. A. , Hassan E. I.
Published: August 2023

In this study, we conduct a comprehensive investigation of the cosmological model described by

(where λ represents a free parameter) in light of the most recent observational data. By constraining the model using the

and

datasets, we determine its compatibility with the observed behavior of the Universe. For this purpose, we adopt a parametric form for the effective equation of state (EoS) parameter. This parametric form allows us to describe the evolution of the EoS parameter with respect to redshift and investigate its behavior during different cosmic epochs. The analysis of the deceleration parameter reveals an accelerating Universe with a present value of

, indicating the current phase of accelerated expansion. The transition redshift is found to be

, marking the epoch of transition from deceleration to acceleration. We also analyze the evolution of important cosmological parameters, including the density parameter, pressure, effective EoS, and stability. These findings collectively demonstrate the viability of the

cosmological model as a robust candidate capable of engendering the requisite negative pressure, thereby efficiently propelling cosmic expansion. Moreover, the undertaken stability analysis underscores the model's stability within the broader cosmic landscape. By providing the best-fit values for the coupling parameter λ, this approach motivates and encourages further exploration into the extensive landscape of this model and its potential applications across diverse realms of cosmology and astronomy.
Investigating EEG-based cross-session and cross-task vigilance estimation in BCI systems
Authors: Wang Kangning , Qiu Shuang , Wei Wei , Yi Weibo , He Huiguang , Xu Minpeng , Jung Tzyy-Ping , Ming Dong
Published: August 2023

Objective. The state of vigilance is crucial for effective performance in brain-computer interface (BCI) tasks, and therefore, it is essential to investigate vigilance levels in BCI tasks. Despite this, most studies have focused on vigilance levels in driving tasks rather than on BCI tasks, and the electroencephalogram (EEG) patterns of vigilance states in different BCI tasks remain unclear. This study aimed to identify similarities and differences in EEG patterns and performances of vigilance estimation in different BCI tasks and sessions. Approach. To achieve this, we built a steady-state visual evoked potential-based BCI system and a rapid serial visual presentation-based BCI system and recruited 18 participants to carry out four BCI experimental sessions over four days. Main results. Our findings demonstrate that specific neural patterns for high and low vigilance levels are relatively stable across sessions. Differential entropy features significantly differ between different vigilance levels in all frequency bands and between BCI tasks in the delta and theta frequency bands, with the theta frequency band features playing a critical role in vigilance estimation. Additionally, prefrontal, temporal, and occipital regions are more relevant to the vigilance state in BCI tasks. Our results suggest that cross-session vigilance estimation is more accurate than cross-task estimation. Significance. Our study clarifies the underlying mechanisms of vigilance state in two BCI tasks and provides a foundation for further research in vigilance estimation in BCI applications.
Studying signals in particle detectors with resistive elements such as the 2D resistive strip bulk MicroMegas
Authors: Janssens D. , Brunbauer F. , Flöthner K.J. , Lisowska M. , Muller H. , Oliveri E. , Orlandini G. , Riegler W. , Ropelewski L. , Schindler H. , Scharenberg L. , Utrobicic A. , Veenhof R.
Published: August 2023

As demonstrated by the ATLAS New Small Wheel community with their MicroMegas (MM) design,
resistive electrodes are now used in different detector types within the Micro Pattern Gaseous
Detector family to improve their robustness. The extended form of the Ramo-Shockley theorem for
conductive media has been applied to a 1 MΩ/□ 2D resistive strip bulk MM to calculate
the signal spreading over neighbouring channels using an 80 GeV/c muon track. For this geometry,
the dynamic weighting potential was obtained numerically using a finite element solver by applying
a junction condition and coordinate scaling technique to accurately represent the boundary
conditions of a 10 × 10 cm2 active area. Using test beam measurements, the results of
this model will be used to benchmark this microscopic modelling methodology for signal induction
in resistive particle detectors.
Examining the effect of cost information and framing on support for methane regulations in Europe
Authors: Bergquist Parrish , Mahdavi Paasha
Published: August 2023

Methane abatement policies will play an important role in mitigating climate change given the high global-warming potential of methane compared to carbon dioxide. Yet evidence on public attitudes and support for methane regulations is lacking. In partnership with the Clean Air Task Force, we develop an original nationally representative survey of four European countries (N = 5629) to show variation in public opinions about methane emissions and policy to reduce them. Using a framing experiment, we test variation in these preferences as a function of policy impacts on cost, global climate change, local pollution, or energy security. We find largely null effects across the board: attitudes are remarkably durable to varying treatments, suggesting that support for methane regulations is not sensitive to cost information and policy framing. The results from this survey provide a much-needed baseline for public attitudes about methane abatement and will inform existing debates on what information is and is not effective in generating support for ambitious methane policy.
Study the Spatiotemporal Variations of some Cloud Properties Over Iraq
Authors: Al-Zuhairi Munya F. , Nemah Hussain Abodi , Al-Montaser Zahraa N. , Majeed Husam T.
Published: August 2023

A cloud is a collection of water droplets or ice crystals, or both of them suspended in the air. The aim of this work is to study the spatiotemporal variations of cloud properties over six selected cities in Iraq which they are (Mosul, Khanaqin, Baghdad, Rutba, Kut, and Basra) at multi-pressure levels using remote sensing data for the period from (1981) to (2020). The study results show that the values of temperature and specific humidity over all six selected cities decrease with increased height and the maximum value occurred in summer months, and the relative humidity increased in winter months and decreased in summer months for all cities, and the maximum value more than 60% happened in Mosul and Khanaqin cities. Also, the cloud occurred over all cities at level 300 hpa, and the maximum fraction of clouds of more than 0.14 occurred over Mosul city from Mar to Mid Apr. The ice water content (CIWC) occurred in upper levels with a maximum value of more than 13 kg/kg occurred over Mosul city and liquid water content (CLWC) extends from the surface to about 500 hpa for all cities with a maximum value of more than 13 kg/kg occurred over Mosul city, while the snow water content (CSWC) extends from surface to 300 hpa over Mosul, 900 to 300 hpa over Khanaqin, 800 to 300 hpa over Baghdad, Rutba, Kut and Basra with maximum value more than 13 kg/kg occurred over Mosul city and the rain water content (CRWC) occurred in levels from 750 to surface over all cites except Rutba there is no rainwater content existed in the cloud and the maximum value more than 3 kg/kg occurred over Mosul city. The results of monthly rain showed that the rainfall occurred over all cities in the months from Oct to May and the maximum value of rainfall reached about 65 mm occurred in Mar over the Mosul and Khanaqin cities. Also, Mosul city has the maximum monthly average of rain from other cities reach to about 35 mm because the meteorological and microphysical variables of clouds over Mosul city are higher than other.
A Study of Turbulent Fluctuation of Three-Component Wind and Air Temperature in the Surface Layer of Baghdad Urban
Authors: Redah Ghadeer A. , Al-Jiboori Monim H. , Al-Taai Osama T.
Published: August 2023

In this study, the air temperature and velocity component means were also computed, as were the fluctuation values of the three component velocities (u, v, and w) and the air temperature (T). The instantaneous velocity can be broken down into its tally of varying and time-averaged contributions using a process known as Reynolds decomposition. The Reynolds decomposition depends on how you define the mean. The results show that the behaviors of the u, v, and w diurnal cycles are anticipated in ABL. The best fit is for air temperature because the correlation coefficient between time and temperature is large. The component fluctuated around zero, and the sum of the fluctuation averages equaled zero. The fluctuation of u was large, which increased because of the initial value of u and because of wind direction and friction velocity.
Turbulent Diffusion Effect on PM2.5 Concentration above an Urban Canopy
Authors: Redah Ghadeer A. , Al-Jiboori Monim H. , Al-Taai Osama T.
Published: August 2023

Turbulent diffusion played a role in mixing the pollutants that caused instability in the atmospheric boundary layer by analyzing the features of turbulent transfer, diffusion coefficients of momentum (km) and heat (kh), and the shape of universal functions of PM2.5. Observation of turbulence measured by 3D ultrasonic anemometer for one week in both January and July 2016, in Baghdad, Iraq. K and PM2.5 concentrations had a strong inverse relationship under three atmospheric stabilities: unstable, neutral, and stable conditions, this indicated that turbulent diffusion’s impact was significant during the observed period. According to the comparisons between Km and Kh, the strength of the turbulent exchange of PM2.5 concentration at stations may be weaker or stronger than the strength of the turbulent momentum and heat exchange. Finally, the result shows the turbulent diffusion coefficient by heat Kh was larger than the turbulent diffusion coefficient by momentum Km.
The Back Trajectory Study for Selected Extreme Rainfall Events Over Iraq
Authors: Mohammed Ali J. , Hashim Ahmed A. , Kadhum Jasim H. , Mohammed Samir K.
Published: August 2023

The Precipitations conditions having special attention in the last decade due to their impact on human health, ecosystems and other aspects such as agriculture, and hydrology. The ECMWF ERA-Interim 15-hourly (00 and 15 UTC) total precipitations in a 1° x 1° grid covering Iraq, from 29° N to 38° N and from 39° W to 48° E, with a total of 10 by 10 cells, was used. At each grid point, extremes were defined as those events in which total precipitations were above the 90th percentile for the 25 years period 1994-2019. The aim of this work is to study the precipitation cumulative extreme events in Iraq and studying the back trajectory pathway from the origin to rejoin by using the Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) model. 60% of the precipitation cumulative extreme events occurred during the second decade. In all regions, there are important peaks in the cumulative precipitation events in 2006,2013,2014, 2016 and 2018 representing 40% of the cumulative perceptions events. The back-trajectories of rainfall events are associated with the advection of air masses from the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf is the most influential on the amount of rain and the percentage of saturation of air masses that reach Iraq. The Mediterranean cyclone is the main source of rainfall in Iraq.
Verification of Some Weather Elements Forecasts from BSC-DREAM8b V2 Model
Authors: Al-Dabbagh Sama K. , Almusawi Vian , Alknani Basim Abdulsada
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study is to verify 2-meter temperature and mean sea level pressure forecasts from BSC-DREAM8B V2.0 model, which is a short-term numerical forecasting model against observed data from the Iraqi Meteorological Organization & Seismology constitution and modelled data (ERA-Interim) reanalysis from the European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) for the period 1-3 June 2012 for four selected stations in Iraq, they are Mosul, Baghdad, Rutba and Basra which represent northern, central, western and southern of Iraq respectively by using some statistical methods including Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Bias Error (BE) and Correlation Coefficient (R). The results showed that the BSC-DREAM8B V2.0 model worked well in representing the daily temperature variation and with relatively good compatibility with the ERA-I modelled data, however, the latter showed lower absolute error rates. The two modelled data showed the highest absolute error rate for Baghdad station whereas BSC showed lower values for Basra station and different values for Rutba and Mosul, and the predicted values were overestimated for all stations and for both models except for Rutba station where ERA-I data showed underestimated value. As for the surface pressure at mean sea level, the BSC-DREAM8B V2.0 model showed its ability to simulate the daily change of pressure and worked in a good consistency with ERA-I modelled data with few hetopascal as mean absolute error. Both modelled data showed underestimated values for all stations, and thus, BSC modelled data is better for simulating temperature and mean sea level pressure in low elevated regions compared to ERA-Interim data and vice versa.
Effect of Carbon Dioxide, Methane and Nitrous Oxide with TCO and Solar Flux on the Earth’s Stratosphere Temperature in Mid-Latitude Region for Period 2000-2018
Authors: Mawj S. R. , Al-Ubaidi Najat M. R.
Published: August 2023

The stratosphere is the second layer of the atmosphere and the important of this layer is to contain the ozone layer which absorbs the UV radiation from the Sun. The main objective of this research is to study the effect of GHGs and TCO on the temperature of stratosphere layer in the presence of influence of solar radiation in mid-latitude region, specifically capital Beijing (latitude 40°N; longitude 116°E) in China are taken as a study case, because it is the most city in the world that emits greenhouse gases for the period (2000-2018) selected in this research. The data for GHGs (carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide) are taken from Emissions Database for Global Atmospheric Research (EDGAR), the monthly average data for the total column ozone and temperature are taken from the European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). While the data for the solar radiation is taken from the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies. The data for Sunspot number is taken from Sunspot Index and Long-term Solar Observations (SILSO), all these data are taken for the period (2000-2018) above the capital Beijing. From data analysis and results it found that there is a cooling effect on the stratosphere layer due to increase in greenhouse gases and decrease in the total column ozone, as well as the decreasing in solar radiation leads to this cooling.
Risk Assessment of some Radioactive Nuclei in Al-Shomali Bricks Factories, Babil Governorate, Iraq
Authors: Al-Sultani Karrar Haider Fanteel , Al-Sadi Mohammed Abdul Kadhim Hadi
Published: August 2023

The current research aims to evaluate the level of natural and industrial radioactive activity of soil samples collected from the city of Shomali - Babil Governorate, by 13 samples with a depth of 20 cm, where the spectral analysis technique was used for a high-purity germanium detector. Where it was found that the rate of specific effectiveness for each of 226Ra, 214Pb, 214Bi, 232Th, 212Pb, 228Ac, 40K, 60Co in the studied soil samples (28.4±3.47), (13.6±2.58),( 12. ±2.46), (11±2.58), (58.4±5.38), (45±4.36), (100.1±9.11), (0.78±0.05) respectively. In this research, the values of the radioactive hazard indicators were also found, which were varied, as it was found that most of the values of the calculated indicators are universally acceptable, but some indicators have exceeded the internationally permissible limits.
Assessment Vertical and Spatial Distribution of SO2 Concentration over Baghdad City (Case Study at 2022)
Authors: Al-Khuwaylidee Imad Khraibet Rashid , Hassoon Ahmed F. , Al-Ramahi Fouad K. Mashee
Published: August 2023

One of the most important issues at the present time in developed and developing countries alike is air pollution. Sulfur dioxides consider one of important gases pollutant that product from fossil fuel combustion such as oil and coal. It is considered one of the principal air pollutants that has contributed to premature deaths and respiratory illnesses. Globally SO2 also has a high spatial and temporal variability because of its short atmospheric residence time. In this study reanalysis data of SO2 concentration values is download from ERA5 website (fifth generation ECMWF reanalysis for global climate and weather) for months (Jan., April, July and Oct.) from year 2022, and for 8-height levels from ground surface to 5000 meter, for all area of Baghdad province, other atmospheric parameter also download such as boundary layer height BLH and wind and direction. Results show high values of SO2 in January relative to other months and the smallest values is in July at all 8-levels nearly. Spatial Speed and direction given opposite relation with SO2 concentration, while most high concentration of SO2 in located in Baghdad city center and area around because its represent the sources of pollutant.
Relationship of Surface Temperature and Average Relative Humidity for Selected Governorates of Iraq ( Baghdad, Al-Mosul and Al-Muthna )
Authors: Al-Saadi Luma M. , Jaber Sundus H.
Published: August 2023

study and analysis the trends of the paths of the climatic elements (maximum and minimum temperatures and relative humidity) received great attention and evaluated their statistical importance in terms of assessing climate changes. In this research, data were taken for the maximum and minimum temperature and relative humidity for several different governorates in terms of location, namely (Baghdad, al-Al-Mosul and Al-Muthna), and the Sigma plot program was used to extract the different forms of the relationship between the maximum and minimum temperature and the average relative humidity for each month of the selected years in this study. The time series of temperature and relative humidity showed that the relationship between them is an inverse relationship, as well as the fluctuations that occur in the values of temperature and relative humidity between high and low in different months of the year, but clearly appeared in the spring and autumn seasons, and the reason for this is that these two seasons have transitional characteristics weather, especially temperature. Also, through the values of the correlation coefficient that was extracted for all months, and its results were mostly negative, which are mentioned in the attached tables, which indicate the inverse relationship between of them the two elements mentioned above. through the data and forms that have been reached and the observation of the difference in values between the governorates, starting from Mosul with low temperatures and high relative humidity, and down to Baghdad and then Al-Muthna, which begins with an increase in temperatures and a decrease in relative humidity, and this explains the importance of the geographical location of each governorate and the extent of its impact on the values of temperatures. Temperature, relative humidity and other climatic elements.
Air Surface Temperature Variability and Trends from Satellite Homogenized Time Series Data Over Tunis 2003–2021
Authors: Abdulfattah I. S. , Rajab J. M. , Chaabane M. , Lafta M. H. , Lim H. S.
Published: August 2023

Monthly Air Surface Temperature (AST) data for Tunis were acquired by the Atmospheric InfraRed Sounder (AIRS) dataset (2003–2021), the enrolments of 77 grids, each located in Spatial resolution 1°x1°, were converted into monthly and annual data and analysed. The time series of AST in Tunis were investigated for temporal and spatial trends during study period over six climate stations each having sufficient data available were utilized for this purpose. The monthly time series showed similar variations and fluctuated of AST, minimum (decreases, January) and maximum (increases, July) in trend, with standard deviation (294.15 + 14.02 K°). Most stations, appeared positive trends in their annual AST series, only at Sfax negative, with higher trends for central stations than those closer to the desert and coast. The trends were lowest over coastal area. The Comparisons among selected six stations (Tunis, Tabarka, Thala, Sfax, Medenine, and EL-Borma) between the AST observed by AIRS and in-situ data showed close agreement range from 0.38 to 3.6 K°, and approximately the same in the north-to-south transect throughout the year. The validation results plainly evident a high correlation coefficient (R, 0.995, 0.997, 0.994, 0.94, 0.974 and 0.95), and the asset values of (R2) was 0.991, 0.995, 0.987, 0.93, 0.993, and 0.977 for Tunis, Sfax, Tabarka, Thala, Medenine, and EL-Borma respectively. The satellite observation (AIRS) is able to investigate the variations of the atmosphere AST over different zones.