bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal control of robotic systems and biased Riemannian splines
Authors: Cabrera Alejandro , Hatton Ross L.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we study mechanical optimal control problems on a given Riemannian manifold (Q,g) in which the cost is defined by a general cometricg̃. This investigation is motivated by our studies in robotics, in which we observed that the mathematically natural choice of cometricg̃=g*– the dual ofg– does not always capture the true cost of the motion. We then, first, discuss how to encode the system’s torque-based actuators configuration into a cometricg̃. Second, we provide and prove our main theorem, which characterizes the optimal solutions of the problem associated to general triples (Q,g,g̃) in terms of a 4th order differential equation. We also identify a tensor appearing in this equation as the geometric source of “biasing” of the solutions away from ordinary Riemannian splines and geodesics for (Q,g). Finally, we provide illustrative examples and practical demonstration of the biased splines as providing the true optimizers in a concrete robotics system.
Complications au long terme du diabète sucré chez le chien et le chat : signes d’appel, diagnostic et prise en charge
Authors: Humeau Clara , Sénécat Odile
Published: March 2024

En cas de diabète sucré mal équilibré ou diagnostiqué tardivement, des complications au long terme peuvent apparaître. Il s’agit le plus souvent d’atteintes oculaires, fréquemment rencontrées chez le chien (cataractes, rétinopathies, uvéites) ou neurologiques, plus souvent diagnostiquées chez le chat (polyneuropathie appendiculaire distale ou plus rarement neuropathie autonome). L’état hyperglycémique favoriserait également, comme chez l’Homme, le développement de néphropathies ou de cardiopathies, bien que la pathogénie ne soit pas encore bien élucidée. De nombreux examens complémentaires sont disponibles afin d’évaluer la présence de ces complications lors du diagnostic. L’insulinothérapie mise en place précocement permet de limiter l’apparition de ces complications, qui sont, une fois installées, généralement irréversibles. Les inhibiteurs de l’aldose réductase, enzyme intervenant dans la pathogénie d’apparition de certaines de ces complications, sont également à l’essai. D’autres traitements, médicaux ou chirurgicaux, sont parfois envisageables une fois les lésions déjà installées.
Exploration and Practice of Ideological and Political Education in Vocational Education Curriculum Based on Learning as the Center
Authors: Li Li , Zhao Hongqiang , Guo Xingxiang , Wang Xiaoyao
Published: March 2024

Anti mold technology in aviation material storage is an important foundational course for aviation material management majors. In order to effectively play the role of the main channel for classroom education, curriculum ideological and political reform has been carried out in the course of curriculum teaching, effectively integrating curriculum ideological and political concepts into professional classrooms. Based on learning as the center, curriculum ideological and political goals have been established, curriculum ideological and political elements have been explored, and the entire process of education mode has been explored. Implementation precautions have been proposed, and ideological and political education has been implicitly embedded in various stages of the teaching process. Through students’ independent participation and self-awareness, ideological and political internalization has been achieved, providing reference and inspiration for the ideological and political reform of other courses.
The Acquisition and Application of Prepositions by Chinese Middle School Students——Taking IN, ON, and AT as Examples
Authors: Du Hangyu , Du Shuanzhu
Published: March 2024

This paper attempts to put forward pedagogical suggestions for Chinese middle school English teachers to improve their efficiency of preposition teaching by analyzing the errors made by Chinese English learners. Because of the complex semantics network of all prepositions, this paper will take only three prepositions IN, ON, and AT as examples to make a deeper analysis in this field.
Exploring the Implementation Path of Curriculum Civics for Programming Courses
Authors: Xie Bei , Luo Mingzhu
Published: March 2024

Programming courses have the characteristics of strong technical, practical, logical, and fast update and iteration. It is difficult to apply the teaching reforms based on curriculum Civics to this kind of courses in close connection with the students’ actual professional learning, and the construction of curriculum Civics has certain difficulties. By analyzing the problems existing in the construction of program design courses’ Civics, the Civics construction program for program design courses is elaborated from the objectives of Civics, the implementation path of Civics teaching, and the design of Civics teaching. A specific case is given, and the effect of the implementation of Civics in the courses is analyzed. The practice proves to be of certain reference value for the construction, evaluation and improvement of the program design courses
Navigating the Future Landscape of Gamified Education
Authors: Zhou Guangyan
Published: March 2024

Gamified education is undergoing a transformative shift, heralding a new era in the landscape of learning. This evolution is characterized by the advent of personalized learning experiences, underpinned by artificial intelligence (AI), and the seamless integration of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies. These trends are not merely additive but are synergistically enhancing the learning experience, making it more dynamic, engaging, and effective than ever before. Personalized learning through AI is at the forefront of this transformation. AI algorithms are being leveraged to tailor educational content to the individual learner’s needs, preferences, and learning pace. This ensures that each student receives a customized learning experience that is optimized for their personal learning journey, maximizing engagement and efficacy. The integration of VR and AR technologies into gamified education is another significant trend. These technologies provide immersive learning environments that can simulate real-world scenarios or abstract concepts, thereby facilitating a deeper understanding and retention of knowledge. VR and AR make learning more interactive and enjoyable, which in turn, increases motivation and engagement among learners. Data-driven insights are playing a crucial role in the evolution of gamified education. By analyzing data on learner performance and behavior, educators can gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of teaching strategies and learning materials. This enables continuous improvement of the learning experience, ensuring that it remains relevant, engaging, and effective. Ethical considerations are paramount as gamified education continues to evolve. Issues such as privacy, data security, and equitable access to educational technologies are critical and must be addressed to ensure that gamified education benefits all learners, without compromising their rights or well-being. As technology, pedagogy, and game design converge, gamified education is evolving from a passive to an active, participatory model. This transformation empowers students to take charge of their educational journeys, offering a path to personalized, engaging, and data-driven learning experiences. The future of gamified education promises to be dynamic and inclusive, reshaping the future of learning in profound ways.
Research on the strategy of counselors’ ideological and political education under the background of “micro era”
Authors: Wang Yuzhen
Published: March 2024

As a double-edged sword, the Internet not only brings opportunities for ideological and political education, but also brings some challenges, and puts forward higher requirements for counselors’ work. As an important medium to guide the growth of students and cultivate the quality of students in all aspects, counselors should grasp the development trend of The Times, innovate the working mode of posts, and improve the level of ideological and political education. This paper takes the strategy of ideological and political education of counselors under the background of “micro era” as the research object, expounds the characteristics of “micro era”, analyzes the positive and negative influence of “micro era” on the ideological and political work of counselors, and puts forward several suggestions on how to promote the ideological and political education of counselors, hoping to provide references for relevant people.
Research Status and Prospect of Military Postgraduate Training Quality Assurance System
Authors: Wang Guangxing
Published: March 2024

The quality assurance system of postgraduate training is a powerful guarantee to ensure the quality of postgraduate training. By combing the literature research on the quality assurance system of postgraduate training in military academies, this paper finds three types and seven specific problems that affect the quality of training. In view of the current training characteristics, the prospect of quality improvement is put forward from three aspects : theoretical research, training status and system construction. The research results provide a theoretical basis for the construction of a quality assurance system for postgraduate training in military academies in the context of the new era.
Comparative Analysis of Music Education Systems in New Zealand, Hong Kong and the UK
Authors: Xue Mengjin
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to compare and analyze the music education systems in New Zealand, Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. First, in New Zealand, Hong Kong and the UK in education policies and regulations, curriculum structure and content, training and certification bodies, education resources and facilities, teacher training and professional development five aspects, and then to New Zealand, Hong Kong and the UK in education policies and regulations, curriculum structure and content, training and certification institutions, education resources and facilities, and further understand the similarities and differences, for music education in other countries.
Ein frischer Wind
Authors: Hohmann Mima , von Bremen Dörte , Walkenhorst Michael
Published: March 2024

Liebe Leserin, lieber Leser

nun halten Sie sie also in Händen, die erste ZGTM-Ausgabe des neuen
Herausgeber*innenteams. Wir sind sehr froh, dass dies der Fall ist, denn im März
2023 stand es haarscharf auf der Kippe, ob es die ZGTM in dieser Form weiterhin
geben würde. Mit deutlicher Mehrheit sprach sich die Mitgliederversammlung der
Gesellschaft für Ganzheitliche Tiermedizin (GGTM) aber für den Erhalt der ZGTM aus.
Danach folgte eine kurze Phase des luftleeren Raumes, als nichts geklärt und
entschieden war, bis schließlich im Sommer bei der Klausurtagung des erweiterten
Vorstands spontan eine kreative Diskussion die entscheidende Wendung brachte und wir
drei wie die Jungfrau zum Kinde kamen. Dem Entschluss folgte direkt ein sprudelnder
Quell an Themenvorschlägen für Inhalte, Rubriken, Autoren und ehe wir uns versahen,
stand ein komplettes Zeitungsgerüst für die vier Ausgaben 2024.
Seltene Nervenkompressionssyndrome
Authors: Carolus Anne , Uerschels Anne-Kathrin
Published: March 2024

Seltene
Kompressionssyndrome

Angesichts ihrer langen Verläufe, den komplexen
Topographien zwischen Muskeln, unter Bändern und Muskelfaszienkanten sowie dem
Verlauf nahe knöcherner Strukturen sind periphere Nerven prädisponiert für
lokale Kompressionen. Daraus resultieren viele Engpasssyndrome – für fast jeden
Nerv ist ein solches beschrieben. Der Artikel soll eine systematische Übersicht
über Symptome, Diagnostik und Therapie geben, wobei er sich auf die weniger
bekannten Syndrome konzentriert.

Zu den seltenen Kompressionssyndromen im
Bereich des Schultergürtels gehören das Suprascapularis-Syndrom, das
Kompressionssyndrom des N. axillaris im spatium quadrilaterale und die
Kompression des N. thoracicus longus. Im Unterarm sind das M. pronator-teres-
und N. interosseus-anterior-Syndrom als seltenere Kompressionssyndrome des N.
medianus beschrieben. Am Unterarmverlauf des N. radialis kann das
Supinatorlogensyndrom auftreten. Das Loge de Guyon-Syndrom liefert das
ulnarseitige Pendant zum weitaus bekannteren Karpaltunnelsyndrom der Hand. Bei
der Cheralgia paraesthetica handelt es sich um eine Einengung des sensiblen N.
radialis-Astes zum Daumenrücken.

An der unteren Extremität können sämtliche
Nerven der Leisten- und Oberschenkelregion eingeengt werden, die Passage zwischen
den Blättern der schrägen Bauchmuskulatur bzw. unter dem Leistenband ist hierfür
prädisponierend. Die Meralgia paraesthetica mit einer Affektion des N. cutaneus
femoris lateralis ist hier das bekannteste Syndrom. Nahezu nur iatrogen treten
Engpässe des N. femoralis oder N. obturatorius auf. Bei lateralen Schmerzen in der
distalen Oberschenkel-/Knieregion vor allem nach orthopädischen Eingriffen am
Kniegelenk sollte an eine Kompression oder Läsion des intrapatellaren N.
Saphenus-Astes gedacht werden. Das Piriformislücken-Syndrom beschreibt eine
wahrscheinlich muskuläre Einengung des N. ischiadicus und gilt als
unterdiagnostiziert. Im Unterschenkel- und Fußbereich existieren mehrere
Kompressionssyndrome des N. peronaeus und des N. tibialis, darunter die
Nervenkompression am Fibulaköpfchen, das vordere und hintere Tarsaltunnelsyndrom und
die Morton-Metatarsalgie.
Dynamic Level of Fibronectin in Calcium Hydroxide and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate Used as Pulp-Capping Materials
Authors: Trilaksana Aries Chandra , Dwiandhany Wahyuni Suci , Nagaret Fuista Rica
Published: March 2024

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the dynamics of fibronectin levels in teeth treated with pulp capping using calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA).

Materials and Methods Test mice were divided into two treatment groups for pulp capping, with group 1 receiving Ca(OH)2 and group 2 receiving MTA. The maxillary first molars of each group's six rats were pulp capped. After pulp capping, blood samples were collected at 1 hour, 24 hours, and 48 hours. A subsequent analysis of the ELISA—enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay—data was performed on additional samples. Hasanuddin University's Faculty of Medicine's Research Ethics Committee allowed the use of experimental animals.

Statistical analysis The data normality test uses the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test (sample > 50) or the Shapiro-Wilk test (sample 50) to identify the analytical application of the distribution of the standard data. Wilk test outcomes had a value of p > 0.05; for both the fibronectin and Shapiro leptin levels, the data are considered to be normally distributed.

Results Following the application of Ca(OH)2 and MTA to the treated tooth pulp capping, changes in the levels of leptin and fibronectin were observed after 1 hour, 24 hours, and 48 hours. These changes generally tended to decrease leptin levels and increase fibronectin levels.

Conclusion As a pulp-capping material, the results showed that MTA materials have higher levels of dynamics of fibronectin than Ca(OH)2. This indicates MTA is a better material for pulp-capping treatment.
High performance bilayer MoTe2 transistors with co-sputtered ternary HfAlO2 high-k dielectric
Authors: Zhang Yuhui , Di Boyuan , Wen Xiaokun , Lei Wenyu , Li Liufan , Xu Xinyue , Kong Wenchao , Chang Haixin , Zhang Wenfeng
Published: March 2024

We demonstrated that ternary HfAlO2 amorphous film prepared with common co-sputtering technology can be a suitable gate dielectric for bilayer MoTe2 transistors. The film quality can be improved by optimizing the sputtering process and post-annealing treatment, which is superior to its binary Al2O3 and HfO2 components and satisfies gate dielectric criteria. The bilayer MoTe2 transistors with ∼29-nm-thick HfAlO2 gate dielectric exhibit an Ion/Ioff ratio of over 108 by a low operating voltage, together with a small subthreshold swing ≈ 71.22 mV/dec. These promising characteristics favor the development of high-performance and low-power ultrathin MoTe2-based beyond-silicon electronics.
Direct observation of room-temperature high-level triplet–triplet annihilation process in 1%rubrene-doped OLEDs with a CzDBA sensitizer
Authors: Tang Xiantong , Pan Ruiheng , Guan Xinyi , He Yanjun , Jiang Sha , Wang Yongjie , Zhou Xianju , Xiong Zuhong
Published: March 2024

Using the magneto-electroluminescence as a sensitive and fingerprint probing tool, a “hot exciton” channel, named the high-level triplet–triplet annihilation (HL-TTA or T2T2A, T2 + T2 → Sn → S1 → S0 + hv) process from the high-lying triplet (T2) to the lowest singlet states, is observed in 1%rubrene-doped organic light-emitting diodes with a thermally activated delayed fluorescence sensitizer of 9,10-bis(4-(9H-carbazol-9-yl)-2,6-dimethylphenyl)-9,10-diboraanthracene (CzDBA) at room temperature. The addition of a sensitizer simultaneously promotes the Dexter energy transfer channels of host-sensitizer and sensitizer-guest triplets, thereby increasing the amounts of T2 states and inducing the occurrence of the HL-TTA process. Additionally, the HL-TTA enhances with the increase in the bias current and decreases with lowering the working temperature, which is consistent with the current dependence of the conventional low-level TTA (T1T1A, T1 + T1 → S1 + S0) process but contrary to its temperature dependence. More interestingly, the high concentration of CzDBA induces the H-type aggregation of rubrene molecules, promoting the singlet fission process but suppressing the HL-TTA process. These findings enrich the physical understanding of hot exciton channels and provide ideas for the preparation of high-performance devices.
Stochastic kinetic theory applied to coarse-grained polymer model
Authors: Zhu Shangren , Underhill Patrick T.
Published: March 2024

A stochastic field theory approach is applied to a coarse-grained polymer model that will enable studies of polymer behavior under non-equilibrium conditions. This article is focused on the validation of the new model in comparison with explicit Langevin equation simulations under conditions with analytical solutions. The polymers are modeled as Hookean dumbbells in one dimension, without including hydrodynamic interactions and polymer–polymer interactions. Stochastic moment equations are derived from full field theory. The accuracy of the field theory and moment equations is quantified using autocorrelation functions. The full field theory is only accurate for a large number of polymers due to keeping track of rare occurrences of polymers with a large stretch. The moment equations do not have this error because they do not explicitly track these configurations. The accuracy of both methods depends on the spatial degree of discretization. The timescale of decorrelation over length scales bigger than the spatial discretization is accurate, while there is an error over the scale of single mesh points.
Enhancing frequency stability and mode control in a Brillouin random fiber laser with a strongly scattering disordered grating
Authors: Wang Haiyang , An Guowen , Jia Pinggang , Xiong Jijun
Published: March 2024

Random fiber lasers (RFLs) with disordered scattering feedback media provide a range of functionalities and properties. The primary drawback with weak Rayleigh scattering (RS)-based RFLs is their large frequency drift and mode hopping, which are caused by the random walk of photons at different round trips. Here, we present a technique to control the mode propagation of RFLs by using a narrow gain bandwidth from stimulated Brillouin scattering and photon localization from a strongly scattering disordered grating. Multiple scattering of light within the disordered grating leads to photon localization and narrow reflection peaks, which suppresses frequency drift and reduces the number of modes. The compact Brillouin random fiber laser (BRFL) with a 200 m strongly scattering disordered grating enables single-mode lasing with an ultra-narrow linewidth of ∼650 Hz. The results of the real-time spectral evolution obtained by the heterodyne method demonstrate long-term stability of the lasing frequency, confirming the capability of the strongly scattering disordered grating to control mode propagation of the BRFL. The BRFL exhibits an ultra-high frequency stability of 0.48 MHz and mode-hop-free operation up to 120 s. This work provides a perspective on the development of RFLs with high coherence and stability.
Enhanced EMC—Advantages of partially known orientations in x-ray single particle imaging
Authors: Wollter August , De Santis Emiliano , Ekeberg Tomas , Marklund Erik G. , Caleman Carl
Published: March 2024

Single particle imaging of proteins in the gas phase with x-ray free-electron lasers holds great potential to study fast protein dynamics, but is currently limited by weak and noisy data. A further challenge is to discover the proteins’ orientation as each protein is randomly oriented when exposed to x-rays. Algorithms such as the expand, maximize, and compress (EMC) exist that can solve the orientation problem and reconstruct the three-dimensional diffraction intensity space, given sufficient measurements. If information about orientation were known, for example, by using an electric field to orient the particles, the reconstruction would benefit and potentially reach better results. We used simulated diffraction experiments to test how the reconstructions from EMC improve with particles’ orientation to a preferred axis. Our reconstructions converged to correct maps of the three-dimensional diffraction space with fewer measurements if biased orientation information was considered. Even for a moderate bias, there was still significant improvement. Biased orientations also substantially improved the results in the case of missing central information, in particular in the case of small datasets. The effects were even more significant when adding a background with 50% the strength of the averaged diffraction signal photons to the diffraction patterns, sometimes reducing the data requirement for convergence by a factor of 10. This demonstrates the usefulness of having biased orientation information in single particle imaging experiments, even for a weaker bias than what was previously known. This could be a key component in overcoming the problems with background noise that currently plague these experiments.
Variance and higher moments in the sigmoidal self-assembly of branched fibrils
Authors: Razbin Mohammadhosein , Benetatos Panayotis
Published: March 2024

Self-assembly of functional branched filaments, such as actin filaments and microtubules, or dysfunctional ones, such as amyloid fibrils, plays important roles in many biological processes. Here, based on the master equation approach, we study the kinetics of the formation of the branched fibrils. In our model, a branched fibril has one mother branch and several daughter branches. A daughter branch grows from the side of a pre-existing mother branch or daughter branch. In our model, we consider five basic processes for the self-assembly of the branched filaments, namely, the nucleation, the dissociation of the primary nucleus of fibrils, the elongation, the fragmentation, and the branching. The elongation of a mother branch from two ends and the elongation of a daughter branch from two ends can, in principle, occur with four different rate constants associated with the corresponding tips. This leads to a pronounced impact of the directionality of growth on the kinetics of the self-assembly. Here, we have unified and generalized our four previously presented models of branched fibrillogenesis in a single model. We have obtained a system of non-linear ordinary differential equations that give the time evolution of the polymer numbers and the mass concentrations along with the higher moments as observable quantities.
Rashba spin-splitting and spin Hall effect in Janus monolayers Sb2XSX’ (X, X’= S, Se, or Te; X ≠ X’)
Authors: Jain Ayushi , Bera Chandan
Published: March 2024

The combined influence of spin–orbit coupling and spatial inversion asymmetry leads to an enhancement of electronic properties, including Rashba spin-splittings as well as spin Hall effect. Recent research has shown the possibility to create two-dimensional Janus materials with inherent structural asymmetry. In this work, the structural stability, piezoelectricity, electronic properties, and intrinsic spin Hall conductivity of quintuple-layer atomic Janus Sb2XSX’ (X, X’ = S, Se, Te; X ≠ X’) monolayers are investigated using first-principles calculations within the framework of density functional theory. They demonstrate relatively high in-plane piezoelectric coefficients (d22) and also possess out-of-plane piezoelectric coefficients (d31), which is due to the breaking of inversion symmetry in the crystal structure with the space group P3m1. Large Rashba parameters are obtained in Janus Sb2XSX’ monolayers, especially high for Sb2S2Te (1.62 eV Å) and Sb2SeSTe (1.33 eV Å) due to strong spin–orbit coupling. Moreover, Rashba-like spin-splitting is also observed in the edge-states as well, which is highest for Sb2SeSTe with 2.17 eV Å. Furthermore, Sb2S2Te and Sb2SeSTe monolayers reveal a significantly high Berry curvature (65.59 and 61.05 Bohr2), spin Berry curvature (−118.4 and −120.6 Bohr2), and spin Hall conductivity (1.8 and 1.6 e2/h). Our results suggest that Janus Sb2S2Te and Sb2SeSTe monolayers could be an excellent platform for multifunctional electronic applications.
Structures and bonding characteristics of KCl(H2O)n clusters with n = 1–10 based on density functional theory
Authors: Shi Ying , Li Mengxu , Jia Nan , Shi Ruili , Su Yan
Published: March 2024

Aqueous inorganic salt solutions play a prominent role in both physiological and chemical experiments, and significant attention has been directed toward understanding the mechanisms underlying salt dissolution. In our effort to elucidate the hydration process of potassium chloride, we employed a comprehensive genetic algorithm to explore the structures of KCl(H2O)n (n = 1–10). A series of stable structures were identified by high-level ab initio optimization and single-point energy calculations with a zero-point energy correction. An analysis of the probability distribution of KCl(H2O)1–10 revealed that clusters with high probability at low temperatures exhibit reduced probabilities at higher temperatures, while others become more prevalent. When n = 1–9, the contact ion pair configurations or partially dissociated structures dominate in the system, and the probability distribution plot shows that the proportion of the solvent-separated ion pair (SSIP) structures of KCl(H2O)n is very small, while the SSIP configuration in KCl(H2O)10 becomes a stable structure with increasing temperature. The results from natural bond orbital analysis reveal a stronger interaction between chloride ions and water molecules. These findings provide valuable insights for a more comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of potassium chloride dissolution in water.
Far-field thermal radiation of layered ferromagnetic topological materials
Authors: Zhang Yong-Mei , Wang Jian-Sheng
Published: March 2024

High Chern number topological insulators can be obtained in a film of layered magnetic block system theoretically and experimentally. With nonzero Chern numbers, Chern insulators become valuable for fundamental topological physics and for improving next-generation electronic devices. We study energy and angular momentum radiation from layered topological insulators using the Dirac Fermion approach and by Green’s function method. We make a connection between radiation magnitude and topological phase transitions. We find that the magnetic exchange field, intra-layer coupling, and inter-layer interaction are efficient measures to modify the energy radiation of layered topological materials. Moreover, the magnetic exchange field is indispensable for emitting angular momentum due to the need for breaking time-reversal symmetry.
Comparing machine learning potentials for water: Kernel-based regression and Behler–Parrinello neural networks
Authors: Montero de Hijes Pablo , Dellago Christoph , Jinnouchi Ryosuke , Schmiedmayer Bernhard , Kresse Georg
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we investigate the performance of different machine learning potentials (MLPs) in predicting key thermodynamic properties of water using RPBE + D3. Specifically, we scrutinize kernel-based regression and high-dimensional neural networks trained on a highly accurate dataset consisting of about 1500 structures, as well as a smaller dataset, about half the size, obtained using only on-the-fly learning. This study reveals that despite minor differences between the MLPs, their agreement on observables such as the diffusion constant and pair-correlation functions is excellent, especially for the large training dataset. Variations in the predicted density isobars, albeit somewhat larger, are also acceptable, particularly given the errors inherent to approximate density functional theory. Overall, this study emphasizes the relevance of the database over the fitting method. Finally, this study underscores the limitations of root mean square errors and the need for comprehensive testing, advocating the use of multiple MLPs for enhanced certainty, particularly when simulating complex thermodynamic properties that may not be fully captured by simpler tests.
Impact of thermo-oxidative aging on the dry tribological performance and wear mechanisms of UHMWPE/ZrO2 friction pairs
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Tan Deqiang , Tang Qi , Hou Bin , Tian Jialiang , Wei Min
Published: March 2024

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is esteemed for its superior wear resistance, making it a preferred material in various applications, including artificial joints, dental materials, and mechanical components. This study elucidates the effects of thermo-oxidative aging on the dry tribological performance and wear mechanisms of UHMWPE and zirconia (ZrO2) friction pairs using dynamic friction wear tests, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. Results reveal that thermo-oxidative aging significantly compromises wear resistance and alters the degradation mechanisms of UHMWPE. The unaged UHMWPE exhibits exceptional wear resistance, indicated by minimal wear and pronounced polishing effects. Post-aging at 40 °C leads to the formation of fine scratches and rougher wear marks on UHMWPE surfaces, with the predominant wear mechanism transitioning from abrasive wear to fatigue wear as the number of cycles increases. Upon aging at 70 °C, more extensive spalling and pitting damages occur on UHMWPE, indicating more severe thermo-oxidative and wear damages that primarily exhibit fatigue wear and oxidative wear patterns. Notably, aging at 40 °C results in a friction coefficient increase to ∼0.165, whereas aging at 70 °C decreases the friction coefficient to around 0.118, indicating a complex relationship between aging temperature and tribological behavior. This research provides valuable insights into predicting and improving the durability of UHMWPE components used in orthopedic applications, thereby contributing to optimizing orthopedic implant materials for enhanced patient outcomes.
Frequency downshifting in decaying wavetrains on the ocean surface covered by ice floes
Authors: Slunyaev A. V. , Stepanyants Y. A.
Published: March 2024

We study analytically and numerically a frequency downshifting due to power-type frequency-dependent decay of surface waves in the ocean covered by ice floes. The downshifting is obtained both within the linear model and within the nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equation augmented by viscous terms for the initial condition in the form of an NLS envelope soliton. It is shown that the frequency-dependent dissipation produces a more substantial downshifting when the spectrum is relatively wide. As a result, the nonlinear adiabatic scenario of wavetrain evolution provides a downshifting remarkably smaller in magnitude than in the linear regime. Meanwhile, interactions between nonlinear wavegroups lead to spectral broadening and, thus, result in fast substantial frequency downshifts. Analytic estimates are obtained for an arbitrary power n of the dependence of a dissipation rate on frequency ∼ωn. The developed theory is validated by the numerical modeling of the generalized NLS equation with dissipative terms. Estimates of frequency downshift are given for oceanic waves of realistic parameters.
Integration of photothermal water evaporation with photocatalytic microplastics upcycling via nanofluidic thermal management
Authors: Meng Xiangyu , Wang Xin , Yin Kuibo , Jing Yao , Gu Liuning , Tao Zequan , Ren Xinchuan , Tang Mingyu , Shao Xinxing , Sun Litao , Sun Yueming , Dai Yunqian , Xiong Yujie
Published: March 2024

Photothermal heating and photocatalytic treatment are two solar-driven water processing approaches by harnessing NIR and UV-vis light, respectively, which can fully utilize solar energy if integrated. However, it remains a challenge to achieve high performance in both approaches when integrated in a material due to uncontrollable heat diffusion. Here, we report a demonstration of heat confinement on photothermal sites and fluid cooling on photocatalysis sites at the nanoscale, within a well-designed heat and fluid confinement nanofiber reactor. Photothermal and photocatalytic nanostructures were alternatively aligned in electrospun nanofibers for on-demand nanofluidic thermal management as well as easy folding into 3D structures with enhanced light utilization and mass transfer. Such a design showed simultaneously high photothermal evaporation rate (2.59 kg m
−2
h
−1
, exceeding the limit rate) and efficient photocatalytic upcycling of microplastics pollutant into valued products. Enabled by controlled photothermal heating, the valued main product (i.e., methyl acetate) can be evaporated out with 100% selectivity by in situ separation.
An organic O donor for biological hydroxylation reactions
Authors: Ferizhendi Katayoun Kazemzadeh , Simon Philippe , Pelosi Ludovic , Séchet Emmanuel , Arulanandam Roache , Chehade Mahmoud Hajj , Rey Martial , Onal Deniz , Flandrin Laura , Chreim Rouba , Faivre Bruno , Vo Samuel Chau-Duy-Tam , Arias-Cartin Rodrigo , Barras Frédéric , Fontecave Marc , Bouveret Emmanuelle , Lombard Murielle , Pierrel Fabien
Published: March 2024

All biological hydroxylation reactions are thought to derive the oxygen atom from one of three inorganic oxygen donors, O
2
, H
2
O
2,
or H
2
O. Here, we have identified the organic compound prephenate as the oxygen donor for the three hydroxylation steps of the O
2
-independent biosynthetic pathway of ubiquinone, a widely distributed lipid coenzyme. Prephenate is an intermediate in the aromatic amino acid pathway and genetic experiments showed that it is essential for ubiquinone biosynthesis in
Escherichia coli
under anaerobic conditions. Metabolic labeling experiments with
18
O-shikimate, a precursor of prephenate, demonstrated the incorporation of
18
O atoms into ubiquinone. The role of specific iron–sulfur enzymes belonging to the widespread U32 protein family is discussed. Prephenate-dependent hydroxylation reactions represent a unique biochemical strategy for adaptation to anaerobic environments.
An inverse problem for a transmission wave equation with a flat interface in
Rn
Authors: Mercado-Saucedo Alberto
Published: March 2024

In this paper we study a wave equation with discontinuous principal coefficient within a bounded domain of arbitrary dimension. It is obtained the stability of the inverse problem of recovering a space-dependent coefficient by observing a trace of the corresponding solution on part of the boundary. We provide a precise estimate of the minimum required time, as a function of the velocity change and domain size. The main tools are new global Carleman estimates for the transmission system with a particular weight function adapted to the interface geometry, which allows to obtain an optimal estimate of the minimum time.
Bandgap engineering of spinel-structured oxide semiconductor alloys
Authors: Ota Yuichi , Kaneko Kentaro , Onuma Takeyoshi , Fujita Shizuo
Published: March 2024

We investigated bandgap engineering of spinel-structured MgB
2O4 (B = Al, Ga, In) alloys. The trend of bandgap change was tunable from approximated 7.8–3.6 eV by substituting group III cation atoms in MgB
2O4. To evaluate the doping possibility, we have calculated the natural band alignment and doping pinning energy of the normal and inverse spinel structures of MgB
2O4 alloys. The calculated doping pinning energies show that spinel-structured MgB
2O4 alloys can potentially control the electron concentration, but hole doping is difficult. Our computational results are expected to provide new insights into the doping control of ultra-wide bandgap semiconductors.
Non-thermal plasma for decontamination of bacteria trapped in particulate matter filters: plasma source characteristics and antibacterial potential
Authors: Helmke Andreas , Curril Ingrid , Mrotzek Julia , Schulz Jannik , Viöl Wolfgang
Published: March 2024

The aims of this study encompass the characterization of process parameters and the antimicrobial potential during operation of a novel non-thermal plasma (NTP) source in a duct system containing a particulate matter (PM) filter thus mimicking the interior of an air purifier. Simulating conditions of a long-term operation scenario, in which bacterial aerosols in indoor environments accumulate on PM filters, the filter surfaces were artificially inoculated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) and exposed to an air stream enriched with reactive species. Electrical power consumption, key plasma parameters, volume flow and air flow velocity, reactive gas species concentrations as well as inactivation rates of E. coli were assessed. The NTP operated at a gas temperature close to ambient air temperature and featured a mean electron energy of 9.4 eV and an electron density of 1∙1019 m−3. Ozone was found to be the dominating reactive gas species with concentrations of approx. 10 ppm in close vicinity to the PM filters. An inactivation rate of 99.96 % could be observed after exposure of the PM filters to the gas stream for 15 min. This inactivation efficiency appears very competitive in combating realistic bacterial aerosol concentrations in indoor environments.
Linewidth characterization of a self-traceable grating by SEM
Authors: Guo P , Miao H , Mao S F , Zou Y B , Deng X , Cheng X B , Ding Z J
Published: March 2024

To achieve high-precision nanometrology, a self-traceable grating reference material has been reported and prepared using atom lithography and soft x-ray interference techniques (Liu et al 2021 Nanotechnology
32 175 301). In this work, we employ a Monte Carlo simulation method to investigate the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image contrast and linewidth characterization of the grating linewidth. The 3D structure of mushroom-shaped grating lines made of multilayers (Pt, SiO2 and Si) is modeled according to transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, enabling the SEM linescan profiles of secondary electron signals to be obtained for different values of structural linewidth parameters from Monte Carlo simulations. Using the principle of the model-based library method, a model database of Monte Carlo-simulated SEM linescan profiles is thus constructed by varying the incident electron beam conditions and the grating linewidths; then, the grating linewidth is successfully characterized using experimental SEM images. The comparison with the TEM measurement reveals that the measurement accuracy is verified to within 0.3% for the linewidth of ∼25 nm.
Instability of multi-mode systems with quadratic Hamiltonians
Authors: Leu Xuanloc , Thi Nguyen Xuan-Hoai , Lee Jinhyoung
Published: March 2024

We present a novel geometric approach for determining the unique structure of a Hamiltonian and establishing an instability criterion for quantum quadratic systems. Our geometric criterion provides insights into the underlying geometric perspective of instability: A quantum quadratic system is dynamically unstable if and only if its Hamiltonian is non-elliptic (i.e., hyperbolic or lineal). By applying our geometric method, we analyze the stability of two-mode and three-mode optomechanical systems. Remarkably, our approach demonstrates that these systems can be stabilized over a wider range of system parameters compared to the conventional rotating wave approximation (RWA) assumption. Furthermore, we reveal that the systems transit their phases from stable to unstable, when the system parameters cross specific critical boundaries. The results imply the presence of multistability in the optomechanical systems.
Non-Kramers doublet ground state in a quaternary cubic compound PrRu2In2Zn18 investigated by ultrasonic measurements
Authors: Zhang 张 Hua-Yuan 化远 , Wakiya Kazuhei , Nakamura Mitsuteru , Yoshizawa Masahito , Nakanish Yoshiki
Published: March 2024

We performed ultrasonic measurements on a quaternary cubic compound PrRu2In2Zn18 to explore the ground state properties derived from non-Kramers Γ3 doublet of Pr3+. PrRu2In2Zn18 is a quaternary derivative of the ternary compound PrRu2Zn20 that exhibits a structural phase transition at T
S = 138 K. In PrRu2In2Zn18, the Zn atoms at the 16c site in PrRu2Zn20 are selectively replaced by In atoms. A monotonic increase was observed in the temperature dependence of elastic constants C
L = (C
11 + 2C
12 + 4C
44)/3 and C
T = (C
11–C
12 + C
44)/3 in the temperature range around T
S to which an elastic softening was observed in (C
11 – C
12)/2 for PrRu2Zn20. The disappearance of the softening indicates that the structural transition in PrRu2Zn20 is suppressed by the substitution of Zn ions by In ones with a larger ionic radius. Alternatively, the C
T of PrRu2In2Zn18 exhibits a precursor Curie-type elastic softening toward low temperatures being responsible for the non-Kramers Γ3 ground state. We discuss the ground state and the evolution of the elastic properties of the different single-crystal samples of PrRu2In2Zn18 grown under different conditions.
A fully spiking coupled model of a deep neural network and a recurrent attractor explains dynamics of decision making in an object recognition task
Authors: Sadeghnejad Naser , Ezoji Mehdi , Ebrahimpour Reza , Qodosi Mohamad , Zabbah Sajjad
Published: March 2024

Objective. Object recognition and making a choice regarding the recognized object is pivotal for most animals. This process in the brain contains information representation and decision making steps which both take different amount of times for different objects. While dynamics of object recognition and decision making are usually ignored in object recognition models, here we proposed a fully spiking hierarchical model, explaining the process of object recognition from information representation to making decision. Approach. Coupling a deep neural network and a recurrent attractor based decision making model beside using spike time dependent plasticity learning rules in several convolutional and pooling layers, we proposed a model which can resemble brain behaviors during an object recognition task. We also measured human choices and reaction times in a psychophysical object recognition task and used it as a reference to evaluate the model. Main results. The proposed model explains not only the probability of making a correct decision but also the time that it takes to make a decision. Importantly, neural firing rates in both feature representation and decision making levels mimic the observed patterns in animal studies (number of spikes (p-value < 10−173) and the time of the peak response (p-value < 10−31) are significantly modulated with the strength of the stimulus). Moreover, the speed-accuracy trade-off as a well-known characteristic of decision making process in the brain is also observed in the model (changing the decision bound significantly affect the reaction time (p-value < 10−59) and accuracy (p-value < 10−165)). Significance. We proposed a fully spiking deep neural network which can explain dynamics of making decision about an object in both neural and behavioral level. Results showed that there is a strong and significant correlation (r = 0.57) between the reaction time of the model and of human participants in the psychophysical object recognition task.
Simulations of stand-off runaway electron beam termination by tungsten particulates for tokamak disruption mitigation
Authors: Lively Michael A. , Perez Danny , Uberuaga Blas P. , Zhang Yanzeng , Tang Xian-Zhu
Published: March 2024

Stand-off runaway electron termination by injected tungsten particulates offers a plausible option in the toolbox of disruption mitigation. Tungsten is an attractive material choice for this application due to large electron stopping power and high melting point. To assess the feasibility of this scheme, we simulate runaway collisions with tungsten particulates using the MCNP program for incident runaway energies ranging from 1 to 10 MeV. We assess runaway termination from energetics and collisional kinematics perspectives. Energetically, the simulations show that 99% of runaway beam energy is removed by tungsten particulates on a timescale of 4–9 µs. Kinematically, the simulations show that 99% of runaways are terminated by absorption or backscattering on a timescale of 3–4 µs. By either metric, the runaway beam is effectively terminated before the onset of particulate melting. Furthermore, the simulations show that secondary radiation emission by tungsten particulates does not significantly impact the runaway termination efficacy of this scheme. Secondary radiation is emitted at lower particle energies than the incident runaways and with a broad angular distribution such that the majority of secondary electrons emitted will not experience efficient runaway re-acceleration. Overall, the stand-off runaway termination scheme is a promising concept as a last line of defense against runaway damage in ITER, SPARC, and other future burning-plasma tokamaks.
The Making of Felony Procedure in Middle English Literature
Authors: Wang Elise
Published: March 2024

The Making of Felony Procedure in Middle English Literature explores the literary inheritance of criminal procedure in thirteenth to fifteenth century English law, focusing on felony, the gravest common law offense. Left undefined in the law, felony’s definition was left to its practice. But professional lawmen found little of interest in criminal law and so were happy to leave its procedure—from investigation to conviction—fall to local communities who were generally untrained in the law. Left with many practical and ethical questions and few legal answers, they turned to cultural ones, archived in sermons they had heard, plays they had seen, and poetry they knew. This book reads the documents of criminal procedure—coroners’ reports, plea rolls, and gaol delivery records—alongside literary scenes of investigation, interrogation, and witnessing to tell a new intellectual history of criminal procedure’s beginnings. The Making of Felony in Procedure in Middle English Literature’s chapters guide the reader through the steps of a felony prosecution, from act to conviction. It argues that answers they found, and the sources that informed them, created the system that became modern criminal procedure.
Outbreak
Authors: Sarkar Natasha
Published: March 2024

This chapter discusses plague origins by engaging with economic considerations such as trade networks, and by recognizing the ecological environment in which plague flourished. It looks at the endemic southern Himalayas and draws parallels with previous Indian plague epidemics. Attention is given to people’s migratory habits and the chapter compares these details with patterns of the plague’s endemic origins and its subsequent spread. The official discovery of the disease in Bombay city, its progression in various parts of the Presidency, and its spread to other provinces from the main sites of infection receive special attention. The genesis of plague in Punjab and Bengal help in examining multiple entry points for the introduction of plague in an area and the extent to which the epidemic penetrated cities, towns, and villages. In most other countries the pandemic remained a coastal port-city phenomenon, while successfully penetrating deep into the rural interiors of India.