bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of diffusive ion migration on ferroelectric properties in BaTiO3 composite
Authors: Sun Naphisabiang , Singh Hodam Karnajit , Ravi S , Dobbidi Pamu
Published: May 2024

Multiferroic composites, combining ferroelectric and ferromagnetic properties, hold significant promise in today’s technology landscape in a diverse array of fields including information storage devices, energy harvesters, current and magnetic field sensors, tunable devices, and various other domains. Exploring the interaction between these materials and their impact on multiferroic properties is crucial for advancing miniaturized, high-performance devices. A deeper understanding of the interplay between ionic dynamics and microstructure is essential for engineering these composites effectively. This study examines the deterioration of the ferroelectric property of BaTiO3 composite with the incorporation of the magnetic BaFe12O19. The composite is synthesized using the conventional solid-state reaction method. Structural analysis involves x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. The dielectric and ferroelectric investigations, as well as magnetic analysis, are conducted. The study shows the existence of the electron hopping between different oxidation states of the cations and it elevates the material’s conductivity and, generates a leakage current that largely affects the ferroelectric properties by preventing saturation polarization.
An intelligent non-intrusive load monitoring model based on power encoding and convolutional state modules
Authors: Xu Weiyue , Jiang Chengqi , Zhang Qihang , Zheng Jianfeng
Published: May 2024

Non-intrusive load monitoring (NILM) identifies device power consumption or on/off states solely based on total power data, which is highly valuable for consumers to understand their appliance usage behavior and take necessary measures to reduce energy consumption, especially for the benefit of energy consumers’ living production. However, a challenge faced by NILM is the tendency to focus excessively on power disaggregation while neglecting the disaggregation of on/off states, leading to lower classification accuracy, particularly owning to imbalanced states. This study proposes a model that integrates the power and on/off states to simultaneously disaggregate the power and device on/off states. The model comprises two main modules: a power encoding module for power disaggregation, and a convolutional state module (CSM) for on/off state disaggregation. The power encoding module utilizes BERT-LSTM and long short-term memory networks for initial energy disaggregation. In contrast, the CSM employs convolutional neural networks for device state disaggregation. The output of the power-encoding module is multiplied by the probability of on/off states to obtain the final power. The proposed model is evaluated using the REDD and UK-DALE datasets. Compared to the baseline models, the results show an improvement in the device state classification average accuracy from 0.948 to 0.957, and a decrease in the average error between the real power and disaggregated power from 26.356 W to 25.108 W. Additionally, real-world experiments conducted using the designed platform for collecting and disaggregating power data achieve an average accuracy of 0.997. The proposed model demonstrates competitiveness in the NILM field and underscores its significance in aiding energy-consumption reduction efforts.
Hierarchical porous carbon materials for lithium storage: preparation, modification, and applications
Authors: Ying Jiaping , Yin Ruilian , Zhao Zixu , Zhang Xiaoyu , Feng Wen , Peng Jian , Liang Chu
Published: May 2024

Secondary battery as an efficient energy conversion device has been highly attractive for alleviating the energy crisis and environmental pollution. Hierarchical porous carbon (HPC) materials with multiple sizes pore channels are considered as promising materials for energy conversion and storage applications, due to their high specific surface area and excellent electrical conductivity. Although many reviews have reported on carbon materials for different fields, systematic summaries about HPC materials for lithium storage are still rare. In this review, we first summarize the main preparation methods of HPC materials, including hard template method, soft template method, and template-free method. The modification methods including porosity and morphology tuning, heteroatom doping, and multiphase composites are introduced systematically. Then, the recent advances in HPC materials on lithium storage are summarized. Finally, we outline the challenges and future perspectives for the application of HPC materials in lithium storage.
Experimental-numerical study on axial compression performance of square concrete columns confined by new-type BFRP
Authors: Chen Lin Song , Shen Hui Jun , Zheng He Hui , Zhang Long
Published: May 2024

Facing the substantial protection requirements for reinforced concrete structures exposed to severe erosion conditions, a novel composite material(Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer, BFRP) based on epoxy silicone resin as a matrix was introduced in this study. This material exhibits notable enhancements in resistance to acid and alkali corrosion, ultraviolet irradiation, as well as high and low temperature extremes. However, it exhibits lower elastic modulus and higher ductility. To evaluate the effectiveness of this new BFRP composite material in reinforced concrete structures, a comprehensive investigation was conducted by model testing, numerical simulations, and theoretical analysis. This study analyzed the impact of wrapping configuration, number of wrapping layers, concrete strength, and spacing-to-bandwidth ratio on the mechanical properties of concrete square columns. The findings revealed that the loading curve trends for specimens reinforced with the new BFRP sheet and CFRP sheet (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer, CFRP) were almost similar, although the reinforcement effect was comparatively worse for the former. When both layers were fully applied, the axial compression bearing capacity increased by 28.45% and 64.73%, respectively. The number of wrapping layers and the parameters related to concrete strength significantly influenced the reinforcement effect, whereas the influence of spacing-to-bandwidth parameters was less pronounced. Current specifications demonstrate suitable applicability for CFRP-reinforced specimens but limited applicability for BFRP. The calculation model proposed in this paper accurately predicted the axial compression bearing capacity of a new BFRP-reinforced columns, with an error margin kept within 5%.
Nonlinear dynamics of a double pendulum energy harvesting device for continuously rotating systems
Authors: Zaouali Emine , Najar Fehmi , Kacem Najib
Published: May 2024

During operation, rotating systems develop a significant amount of kinetic energy that can be used for energy harvesting applications. However, this energy is hardly harnessed for the rotating body itself. In this work, it is proposed that a pendulum device connected to a DC generator can be an effective way to use part of the kinetic energy from continuously rotating devices. A double pendulum harvester mounted on a rotating body is experimentally and analytically analyzed. Different rotation speeds are used to evaluate the pendulum dynamics, along with the harvested energy. The results indicate that the system response can be classified into three distinct dynamic regimes based on the rotational speed. An analytical model is derived and used to analyze these regimes under different excitation conditions. It is experimentally shown that, at constant angular velocity, the double pendulum device can reach a maximum harvested power of 9.5 mW at 90 rpm. The analytical results prove that multiple period doubling bifurcations are observed as the rotation speed of the disk in slowly increased using a chirp type signal. Alike to experimental observations, chaotic-type response is detected by the analytical model, at rotation speeds similar to those observed experimentally.
Overview of nanoparticles for the rapid diagnosis and effective treatment of bacterial pathogens in clinical settings
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Tang Yu-Rong , Du Yan , Yuan Quan , Wen Xin-Ru , Tang Jia-Wei , Wang Ji-Liang , Zhang Xiao , Wang Liang
Published: May 2024

Infectious diseases caused by bacterial pathogens are currently a significant problem for global public health. Rapid diagnosis and effective treatment of clinically significant bacterial pathogens can prevent, control, and inhibit infectious diseases. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop selective and accurate diagnostic methods for bacterial pathogens and clinically effective treatment strategies for infectious diseases. In recent years, developing novel nanoparticles has dramatically facilitated the rapid and accurate diagnosis of bacterial pathogens and the precise treatment of contagious diseases. In this review, we systematically investigated a variety of nanoparticles currently applied in the diagnosis and treatment of bacterial pathogens, from synthesis procedures to structural characterization and then to biological functions. In particular, we first discussed the current progress in applying representative nanoparticles for bacterial pathogen diagnostics. The potential nanoparticle-based treatment for the control of bacterial infections was then carefully explored. We also discussed nanoparticles as a drug delivery method for reducing antibiotic global adverse effects and eradicating bacterial biofilm formation. Furthermore, we studied the highly effective nanoparticles for therapeutic applications in terms of safety issues. Finally, a concise and insightful discussion of nanoparticles’ limitations, challenges, and perspectives for diagnosing and eradicating bacterial pathogens in clinical settings was conducted to provide a direction for future development.
Can quantum theory be underpinned by a non-local hidden variable theory?
Authors: Dalton B J
Published: May 2024

In this paper we consider the description by a general Bell-type non-local hidden variable theory of bipartite quantum states with two observables per sub-system. We derive Bell inequalities of the Collins-Gisin.-Liden-Massar-Popescu type which involve combinations of the probabilities of related outcomes for measurements for the four pairs of sub-system observables. It is shown that the corresponding quantum theory expressions violate the Bell inequalities in the case of the maximally entangled state of the bipartitite system. The CHSH Bell inequality is also derived from this general CGLMP Bell-type non-local hidden variable theory. This shows that quantum theory can not be underpinned by a Bell-type non-local hidden variable theory. So as a general Bell-type local hidden variable theory has already been shown to conflict with quantum theory, it follows that quantum theory can not be understood in terms of any CGLMP Bell-type hidden variable theory—local or non-local.
Effect of boron-doping and annealing on the structure, morphological and optical properties of ZnO films prepared by spray pyrolysis method
Authors: Al-Qadasy Sameerah S S , Al-Arique Hakim Q N M , Kaawash Nabeel M S , Chishty S Q , Bogle Kashinath A
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the influence of boron doping from boric acid (H3BO3) on the structural, morphological, and optical properties of ZnO thin films deposited on glass substrates via spray pyrolysis at a deposition temperature of 250 °C. Subsequently, they undergo annealing in air at varying temperatures (200, 300, and 400 °C) for 45 min. The research reveals a significant dependence of all investigated properties on both annealing temperature and boron doping. Both pristine ZnO and boron-doped ZnO (BZO) films exhibit a polycrystalline hexagonal wurtzite structure. At the highest annealing temperature (400 °C), both films demonstrate high optical transmittance exceeding 70%, with crystallite diameters ranging from 25.8 to 28.5 nm for ZnO and 15.96 to 24.80 nm for BZO. Additionally, both films exhibit pronounced absorbance up to 400 nm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis confirms a uniformly thick film surface. As the annealing temperature increases, the crystallite size grows, particle morphology evolves, and the overall film thickness increases. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy validates the successful incorporation of boron atoms into the ZnO lattice structure. No contaminant peaks are observed in the FTIR spectra, indicating film purity. Furthermore, the study finds that BZO films possess a narrower optical band gap compared to pristine ZnO films. The band gap of the as-deposited and annealed BZO films is measured to be 3.04 eV and 2.9 eV, respectively, which is lower than the 3.23 eV band gap observed for the ZnO film. In general, the band gap exhibits a decreasing trend with increasing annealing temperature.
Rescuing gravitational-reheating in chaotic inflation
Authors: Barman Basabendu , Bernal Nicolás , Rubio Javier
Published: May 2024

We show, within the single-field inflationary paradigm, that a linear non-minimal interaction ξ M P ϕ R between the inflaton field ϕ and the Ricci scalar R can result in successful inflation that concludes with an efficient heating of the Universe via perturbative decays of the inflaton, aided entirely by gravity. Considering the inflaton field to oscillate in a quadratic potential, we find that 𝒪(10-1) ≲ 𝒪 ≲ 𝒪(102) is required to satisfy the observational bounds from Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) and Big Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN). Interestingly, the upper bound on the non-minimal coupling guarantees a tensor-to-scalar ratio r ≳ 10-4, within the range of current and future planned experiments. We also discuss implications of dark matter production, along with the potential generation of the matter-antimatter asymmetry resulting from inflaton decay, through the same gravity portal.
Hamiltonian for Weyl transverse gravity
Authors: Klusoň J.
Published: May 2024

In this short note we determine Hamiltonian for Weyl transverse gravity. We find primary,
secondary and tertiary constraints and calculate Poisson brackets between them. We also show that
gauge fixing in Weyl transverse gravity leads to the Hamiltonian for unimodular gravity.
Constraints on non-Gaussian primordial curvature perturbation from the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA third observing run
Authors: Inui Ryoto , Jaraba Santiago , Kuroyanagi Sachiko , Yokoyama Shuichiro
Published: May 2024

The scalar-induced gravitational wave (SIGWs), arising from large amplitude primordial density fluctuations, provide a unique observational test for directly probing the epoch of inflation. In this work, we provide constraints on the SIGW background by taking into account the non-Gaussianity in the primordial density fluctuations, using the first three observing runs (O1-O3) data of the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA collaboration. We find that the non-Gaussianity gives a non-negligible effect on the GW energy density spectrum and starts to affect the analysis of the O1-O3 data when the non-Gaussianity parameter is F
NL > 3.55. Furthermore, the constraints exhibit asymptotic behavior given by F
NL
Ag
= const. at large F
NL limit, where Ag
denotes the amplitude of the curvature perturbations. In the limit of large F
NL, we placed a 95% credible level upper limit F
NL
Ag
≤ 0.115, 0.106, 0.112 at fixed scales of 1016, 1016.5, 1017 Mpc-1, respectively.
Quasi-normal modes, emission rate, and shadow of charged AdS black holes with perfect fluid dark matter*
Authors: Chen 陈 Hao 浩 , Dong 董 Shi-Hai 世海 , Hassanabadi Sepehr , Heidari Narges , Hassanabadi Hassan
Published: May 2024

In this study, we comprehensively investigated charged AdS black holes surrounded by a distinct form of dark matter. In particular, we focused on key elements including the Hawking temperature, quasi-normal modes (QNMs), emission rate, and shadow. We first calculated the Hawking temperature, thereby identifying critical values such as the critical radius and maximum temperature of the black hole, essential for determining its phase transition. Further analysis focused on the QNMs of charged AdS black holes immersed in perfect fluid dark matter (PFDM) within the massless scalar field paradigm. Employing the Wentzel-Kramers-Brillouin (WKB) method, we accurately derived the frequencies of these QNMs. Additionally, we conducted a meticulous assessment of how the intensity of the PFDM parameter α influences the partial absorption cross sections of the black hole, along with a detailed study of the frequency variation of the energy emission rate. The pivotal role of geodesics in understanding astrophysical black hole characteristics is highlighted. Specifically, we examined the influence of the dark matter parameter on photon evolution by computing the shadow radius of the black hole. Our findings distinctly demonstrate the significant impact of the PFDM parameter α on the boundaries of this shadow, providing crucial insights into its features and interactions. We also provide profound insights into the intricate dynamics between a charged AdS black hole, novel dark matter, and various physical phenomena, elucidating their interplay and contributing valuable knowledge to the understanding of these cosmic entities.
Can near-to-mid Infrared Spectral Energy Distribution Quantitatively Trace Protoplanetary Disk Evolution?
Authors: Liu 刘 Mingchao 明超 , He 何 Jinhua 金华 , Guo Zhen , Ge 葛 Jixing 继兴 , Tang 唐 Yuping 雨平
Published: May 2024

Infrared (IR) spectral energy distribution (SED) is the major tracer of protoplanetary disks. It was recently proposed to use the near-to-mid IR (or K-24) SED slope α defined between 2 and 24μm as a potential quantitative tracer of disk age. We critically examine the viability of this idea and confront it with additional statistics of IR luminosities and SED shapes. We point out that, because the statistical properties of most of the complicated physical factors involved in disk evolution are still poorly understood in a quantitative sense, the only viable way is to assume them to be random so that an idealized “average disk” can be defined, which allows the α histogram to trace its age. We confirm that the statistics of the zeroth order (luminosity), first order (slope α), and second order characteristics (concavity) of the observed K-24 SEDs indeed carry useful information upon the evolutionary processes of the “average disk”. We also stress that intrinsic diversities in K-24 SED shapes and luminosities are always large at the level of individual stars so that the application of the evolutionary path of the “average disk” to individual stars must be done with care. The data of most curves in plots are provided on GitHub (Disk-age package https://github.com/starage/disk-age/).
DistaNet: grasp-specific distance biofeedback promotes the retention of myoelectric skills
Authors: Ma Chenfei , Nazarpour Kianoush
Published: May 2024

Objective. An active myoelectric interface responds to the user’s muscle signals to enable movements. Machine learning can decode user intentions from myoelectric signals. However, machine learning-based interface control lacks continuous, intuitive feedback about task performance, needed to facilitate the acquisition and retention of myoelectric control skills. Approach. We propose DistaNet as a neural network-based framework that extracts smooth, continuous, and low-dimensional signatures of the hand grasps from multi-channel myoelectric signals and provides grasp-specific biofeedback to the users. Main results. Experimental results show its effectiveness in decoding user gestures and providing biofeedback, helping users retain the acquired motor skills. Significance. We demonstrates myoelectric skill retention in a pattern recognition setting for the first time.
A non-destructive archaeometric study of Roman coins
Authors: Crocco M.C. , Filosa R. , Smeriglio A. , Formoso V. , Barberi R.C. , Solano A. , Cerzoso M. , Polosa A. , Cerrone V. , Agostino R.G.
Published: May 2024

An archaeometric study was carried out on thirteen of the thirty ancient Roman coins found in the “Grotta delle Ninfe” in Cerchiara di Calabria, Calabria, Italy. The coins are exhibited at the Brettii and Enotri Museum in Cosenza, Calabria. Due to their exposure to sulfur-rich water sources near the excavation site, these coins have deteriorated. The inscriptions are entirely unreadable due to a thick coating of corrosion products that have accumulated. This study aims to summarize the results obtained in previous works, including identifying the constituent elements, revealing hidden inscriptions that may help restore readability, and establishing the coin creation period and place.
Real-time air quality monitoring based on locally developed unmanned aerial vehicle and low-cost smart electronic device
Authors: Taamté Jacob Mbarndouka , Noube Michaux Kountchou , Signing Vitrice Ruben Folifack , Hamadou Yerima Abba , Masahiro Hosoda , Sa\"{\i}dou  , Tokonami Shinji
Published: May 2024

This article deals with the development of real-time air
quality monitoring based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and
low-cost Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This investigation aims
to design and develop an UAV-based platform that can monitor a large
number of air pollutants in real-time with high spatial and temporal
resolution. The proposed environmental monitoring system consists of
five main elements, namely the UAV, sensors, data storage module,
programmable card, and IoT communication module. Estimated
pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5) and toxic gases
(carbon monoxide CO, nitrogen dioxide NO2, and carbon dioxide
CO2) are detected by low-cost sensors. The ZigBee wireless
protocol is used for communication between the PC and UAV. This work
is carried out to assess the air quality in urban areas, given the
heavy road traffic and the emissions of some companies. The data
analyzed were collected from December 2, 2022 to January 3, 2023, in
two major cities of Cameroon, Douala and Kribi. The periodic average
values of the detected pollutants are 222 ± 22 μg/m3 
and 85.7 ± 8.6 μg/m3 for PM2.5,
560.8 ± 1.0 ppm and 555.6 ± 1.0 ppm for CO2,
4.2 ± 0.2 ppm and 0.7 ± 0.1 ppm for NO2, and
27.6 ± 2.8 ppm and 4.5 ± 0.5 ppm for CO in Douala and
Kribi respectively. This made it possible to have an air quality
index (AQI) of 444.2 for Douala City and 171.3 for Kribi City. These
high values indicate poor air quality during the measurement
period.
The heterogeneity of human flood adaptation characteristics in Central Asia based on human-flood distance
Authors: Wang Ning , Sun Fubao , Yang Siquan , Liu Wenbin , Wang Hong
Published: May 2024

The Central Asian region is subject to frequent seasonal floods, resulting in substantial losses. These recurrent floods have induced certain changes in human flood adaptation characteristics in Central Asia, an area that is currently under-researched. This study, grounded in meticulously simulated flood inundation outcomes, multisource population distribution data, and flood protection infrastructure data, introduces an improved approach to calculating the distance between human and flood (HFD) and investigates human flood adaptation characteristics in Central Asia. Our findings indicate that residents in Central Asia get close to flood-prone areas from 1970 to 2007, with the exceptions of Turkmenistan (TKM) and Kyrgyzstan (KGZ). Notably, this trend is particularly pronounced in regions such as Xinjiang, China, and Tajikistan (TJK). An intricate exponential increase is observed in the population exposed to floods as the HFD decreases. Under future scenarios, KGZ exhibits the most significant trend of staying away from flood-prone areas, while TJK presents the opposite trend, and TKM experiences minimal changes. Additionally, compared with urban areas, rural areas of Central Asia exhibit a trend towards approaching floods. This study underscores the optimum nature of human flood adaptation when the HFD reaches 4.23 km, showing the potential for substantial benefits by implementing population evacuation within this threshold buffer zone. These insights highlight the complex interplay between human behaviours and floods and can inform the formulation of effective flood risk mitigation strategies.
Compound and consecutive drought-flood events at a global scale
Authors: Matanó Alessia , Berghuijs Wouter R , Mazzoleni Maurizio , de Ruiter Marleen C , Ward Philip J , Van Loon Anne F
Published: May 2024

Flooding during or after droughts poses significant challenges to disaster risk management. However, interactions between droughts and floods are often overlooked as studies typically analyse these events in isolation. Here we explore historical occurrences of compound and consecutive drought-flood events and drought effects on flood severity and timing by analysing global datasets of hydrometeorological and biophysical variables for 8255 catchments worldwide. These data show that 24% of floods globally (anomalies above the 85th percentile) are preceded by, or happen during, drought conditions. Flood events occurring during drought conditions are typically of lower magnitude, especially in arid regions, while floods following drought events have a severity distribution comparable to single flood events. For most drought-flood events, flood timing appears relatively unaffected by drought conditions, but almost a quarter of the drought-flood events had flood timings occurring two to three months later than expected. These shifts in flood timing suggest droughts potentially affect flood-generating processes. As both drought and flood occurrences are projected to increase in a warming climate, interactions between them may become more common and need to be accounted for in flood risk assessment and management.
Regular and anomalous diffusion: I. Foundations
Authors: Eliazar Iddo
Published: May 2024

Diffusion is a generic term for random motions whose positions become more and more diffuse with time. Diffusion is of major importance in numerous areas of science and engineering, and the research of diffusion is vast and profound. This paper is the first in a stochastic ‘intro series’ to the multidisciplinary field of diffusion. The paper sets off from a basic question: how to quantitatively measure diffusivity? Having answered the basic question, the paper carries on to a follow-up question regarding statistical behaviors of diffusion: what further knowledge can the diffusivity measure provide, and when can it do so? The answers to the follow-up question lead to an assortment of notions and topics including: persistence and anti-persistence; aging and anti-aging; short-range and long-range dependence; the Wiener–Khinchin theorem and its generalizations; spectral densities, white noise, and their generalizations; and colored noises. Observing diffusion from a macro level, the paper culminates with: the universal emergence of power-law diffusivity; the three universal diffusion regimes—one regular, and two anomalous; and the universal emergence of 1/f noise. The paper is entirely self-contained, and its prerequisites are undergraduate mathematics and statistics.
The standard symmetrized skew information and its applications
Authors: Ren Ruonan , Luo Yu , Li Yongming
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we propose two new measures: one is symmetrized skew information and the other one is standard symmetrized skew information. Firstly, we prove their properties, such as non-negativity, convexity, invariance, additivity, monotonicity and strong monotonicity. Next, we conduct research on relationships between standard symmetrized skew information and several well-known measures in one-qubit state, aiming to compare their similarities and differences. In addition, standard symmetrized skew information is used to study quantum uncertainty. We also give the definition of standard symmetrized skew information of assistance, and provide it a straightforward operational explanation for better understanding. Finally, standard symmetrized skew information can be applied to detect entanglement.
Dental restorative materials and halitosis: a preliminary in-vitro study
Authors: Odabaş Tuğçe , Harorlı Osman Tolga
Published: May 2024

Despite the widespread use of dental restorative materials, little information exists in the literature regarding their potential impact on bad breath. This in vitro study aims to fill this gap by investigating the influence of different restorative materials on the release of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Thirteen diverse dental restorative materials, including composites, flowable composites, glass ionomer restorative materials, high-copper amalgam, and CAD–CAM blocks, were examined. Cellulose Sponge models were used as negative and positive control. All samples were prepared with a diameter of 5 mm and a height of 2 mm. Except for the negative control group, all samples were embedded into Allium cepa L., and the emitted H2S was measured using the Wintact W8802 hydrogen sulfide monitor. Surface roughness’s effect on emission was explored by roughening the surfaces of CAD–CAM material samples, and gas emission was measured again. The data were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test and DSCF pairwise comparison tests. Fiber-reinforced flowable composite (EverX Flow), amalgam (Nova 70-caps), and certain composite materials (IPS Empress Direct, Tetric Evoceram, Admira Fusion X-tra) released higher H2S concentrations compared to the negative control. The H2S release period lasted longer in the same materials mentioned above, along with G-aenial Universal Injectable. Indirectly used materials, such as GC Cerasmart, Vita Enamic, and Vita YZ HT, demonstrated significantly lower emissions compared to other direct restoratives. Importantly, the surface roughness of indirect materials did not significantly affect peak H2S concentrations or release times. The study reveals variations in H2S release among restorative materials, suggesting potential advantages of indirect restorative materials in reducing H2S-induced halitosis. This comprehensive understanding of the relationship between restorative materials and halitosis can empower both dental professionals and patients to make well-informed treatment choices. Notably, there is evidence supporting the enhanced performance of indirect restorative materials for individuals affected by halitosis.
Technology foresight: Capturing the benefits from nuclear science technology and innovation in Malaysian Nuclear Agency
Authors: Suzana Mohd Chachuli Fairuz , Aziz Azlinda , Mohamad Idris Faridah
Published: May 2024

Nuclear technology has started in Malaysia since the establishment of the Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuclear Malaysia) in 1972. The agency was established to promote the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology for national development. Nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes have effectively advanced in various sectors, including industry, healthcare, food and agriculture, natural resources, energy, and nuclear safety and security through research, development, commercialization and innovation (RDCI). Scientific advancements through RDI activities will have a substantial impact on the advancement of nuclear technology. New demands placed on the public R&D infrastructure are also influencing government research priorities. Many governments believe that establishing a definite longer-term science and technology policy is essential in a time of escalating economic competitiveness. Therefore, to focus resources and achieve the greatest economic and social benefits, the most promising research fields and new technologies should be determined. Technology foresight can be used as a method to evaluate the revolutionary influence of new emerging technologies on the economy and society over the coming years, given the sustainability of RDI in nuclear technology in Malaysian Nuclear Agency. Identifying the fields of strategic research and emerging technologies with the involvement of scientists, industrialists, government officials, and others will provide the greatest economic and social advantages is the goal of technology foresight. This study proposes a conceptual model framework of the technological foresight exercise and implementation stages to be implemented in Malaysian Nuclear Agency. Through a foresight exercise, the Malaysian Nuclear Agency could close the gap between the adoption and use of nuclear technology in social and economic sectors by working with relevant industries, communities, and government agencies to match products, technologies, and services.
Natural weathering effects on the surface morphological and physicochemical properties of radiation curable coatings in tropical climate
Authors: Tajau R , Alias MS , Harun MH , Mudri NH , Hilmi FF , Faisal SM , Ismail RC , Sani AM , Hak CRC , Paulus WS , Jong BC , Liew PWY
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this research is to discover the effects of natural weathering on palm oil-based and petrochemical-based film coatings. The film coatings were prepared using the radiation curing approach via cross-linking. Three palm oil-based resins with TiO2 nanoparticle loading were developed: EPOLA, EPOLA-OPV, and POBUA. The petrochemical-based coatings were also developed to compare the performance of natural and synthetic coatings. The coatings were exposed to natural weathering for up to 60 days at varied angles of 0°, 45°, and 90°. The effect of natural weathering conditions on the surface morphological, physiochemical, and also flexural characteristics of coatings, as well as the discoloration visual inspection and the growth of mould or fungus on the tested specimen, was studied. The results showed that natural weathering exposure induced severe discoloration and deterioration of the polymer network structure of the coatings due to photo-oxidation reaction and the presence of fungi. Overall, palm oil-based coatings deteriorate slower than petroleum-based coatings, especially at a 90° angle. This study indicated that bioresources-based palm oil has a significant potential for interior wood varnish applications due to its superior qualities over synthetic-based coatings.
Subsurface utility detection using ground penetrating radar and electromagnetic locator – a comparative study
Authors: Hazreq bin Haron Amer , Sarah binti Tengku Amran Tengku , Ridzuan Bin Ahmad Mohamad , Azreen Masenwat Noor , Sani Suhairy , Mustapha Ismail , Sayuti Shaharudin , Binti Abdul Razak Noryana , Ahmad Khusaini Bin Adnan Mior , Ali bin Mohd Yusoff Muhamad , Aliff Daniel bin Mohsin Muhammad
Published: May 2024

The process of finding and mapping underground utilities is crucial for managing underground infrastructure effectively, especially to avoid damaging them during construction and digging. This research studies two main methods used for this purpose: Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Electromagnetic Locator (EML). GPR works by using electromagnetic waves to detect and assess things underground, giving an idea of how deep they are. On the other hand, EM L help to find metal utilities by using electromagnetic fields. This shows how important it is to have accurate maps of these utilities. Having precise maps is like having a solid foundation for planning and maintaining infrastructure. It also points out that when combine information from GPR and EML and analyse the results together, it can make the findings even more accurate. In a nutshell, these methods are crucial for keeping us safe, preventing delays in projects, and making sure to use resources wisely across different industries. In this research, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) is used to determine the correlation in depth accuracy error which is 0.05821 which is calculated based on the depth measured by GPR and EML.
Polarization conversion and lateral shifts in multilayered structure with finitely-gapped topological surface states
Authors: Zeng Ran , Gao Taiji , Ni Pengfei , Fang Shichao , Li Haozhen , Yang Shuna , Zeng Xiaodong
Published: May 2024

The polarizatison conversion and the Goos–Hänchen (GH) shifts of the reflected electromagnetic wave for the multilayered structure made of topological insulator (TI) layers with finite surface energy gap are investigated. The transfer matrix formalism is adopted to analyze the reflection of electromagnetic wave through the multilayered structure, and the influences of surface energy gap, thickness and number of the TI layers are discussed. We find that maximum polarization conversion rate can be obtained with appropriate surface energy gap of TI, and within a certain range of finite energy gap, the polarization conversion effect is stronger than that for the case under the infinite surface energy gap limit. Greater polarization conversion rate for TI with small surface energy gap can be found than that for TI with larger energy gap in some range of layer numbers. At large incident angles the GH shifts vary considerably with the layer number for TI with relatively larger energy gap. Result of the combined influence of surface energy gap and layer number shows that, there exists both the positive and negative enhancement peaks of the GH shifts, and for smaller energy gap, fewer TI layers are required to obtain the transition between positive and negative GH shifts.
Evolution of 2D MoO3 layer structures on Pd(100): interplay of interfacial interactions and polarity
Authors: Surnev Svetlozar , Goniakowski Jacek , Mohammadi Malihe , Noguera Claudine , Netzer Falko P
Published: May 2024

We explore the structural evolution of two-dimensional (2D) MoO3 films beyond the monolayer (ML), which have been prepared by physical vapor deposition and post-oxidation onto a Pd(100) surface, and characterized by the tools of surface science and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. According to DFT, the most stable oxide layers are stoichiometric, and derive their energetic stability from the low cost of creating 2D freestanding layers from the orthorhombic bulk phase, good matching to Pd, and the particularly strong adhesion to the substrate. The observed 2D MoO3 layers are distinguished by well-ordered linear defects, such as domain boundaries in the ML, and misfit dislocations in the bilayer (BL). Applying reactive oxidation preparation conditions results in the formation of ordered arrays of nanostructures, nanowires and nanoclusters, in the MoO3 BL. The formation of such linear structures is accounted for in the DFT by models of missing row defects of various orientations and stoichiometries. Their relative stability is rationalized in terms of the number of broken Mo–O bonds, the polar character of the nanostructure edges and the interaction strength with the Pd substrate. Comparison with similar WO3 layers on Pd(100) is provided.
Nanoparticle stressor-induced single-photon sources in monolayer WS2 emitting into a narrowband visible spectral range
Authors: Surendran Jithin T , Waheed Yunus , Shit Sumitra , Prasad Indrajeet D , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Kumar Santosh
Published: May 2024

A van der Waals heterostructure containing an atomically thin monolayer (ML) transition-metal dichalcogenide as a single-photon emitting layer is emerging as an intriguing solid-state quantum-photonic platform. Here, we report the utilization of spin-coating of silica nanoparticles for semi-deterministically creating the spectrally isolated, energetically stable, and narrow-linewidth single-photon emitters in ML-WS2. We also demonstrate that long-duration low-temperature annealing of the photonic heterostructure in the vacuum removes the energetically unstable emitters that are present due to fabrication-associated residue and lead to the emission of single-photons in a

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25 nm narrowband visible spectral range centered at ~620 nm. This work may pave the way toward realizing a hybrid-quantum-photonic platform containing a van der Waals heterostructure/device and an atomic-vapor system emitting/absorbing in the same visible spectral range.
Preparation, characterization and decomposition test on Tapanuli organoclay reinforced cellulose acetate/cellulose acetate butyrate blend composites
Authors: Juwono Ariadne L , Krisnandi Yuni K , Al Abrar Ghuzan , Saragi Indah R , Muiz Lisna J
Published: May 2024

The need for biodegradable composites has increased for many applications in recent years. Cellulose acetate (CA) and cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) are relatively easy and cheap to fabricate, as well as relatively easy to decompose compared to other polymers. These materials are transparent and lightweight with low tensile properties. In this current study, the effect of Tapanuli clay addition on tensile and decomposition properties of CA and CA–CAB systems were investigated. Tapanuli organoclay was prepared by a cation exchange treatment using hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDTMA-Br) surfactant to Na-bentonite. Prior to the treatment, the Tapanuli clay was subjected to purification from organic and carbonate compounds and to balance the cations by homogenizing them into Na+. The basal spacing of Tapanuli clay increased from 1.52 nm up to 1.98 nm. CA and CA −5 wt% CAB composites were then synthesized using a solvent casting method. It was found that the addition of both 5 wt% CAB and 7 wt% organoclay in CA decreased the tensile strength and reduced the mass loss by 70%. After 45 days of the decomposition test, it was indicated that the presence of 5 wt% CAB in CA reduced the mass loss of the system by about 50%. These findings were con-firmed by the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images which showed different patterns of as-synthesized and decomposed materials. In conclusion, the presence of 1 wt% Tapanuli organoclay slightly increased the decomposed mass of CA film and enhanced the tensile strength of CA-co-CAB.
Enhanced photosensitivity in a hybrid WSe2/2DEG heterojunction using a buried TiO2 photosensitive layer
Authors: Zhu Wentai , Zhang Xinyue , Liu YuanYuan , Sun Guangyao , Liu Guozhen , Gao Ju , Cai Zenghua , Jiang Yucheng , Zhao Run
Published: May 2024

In this study, we integrated the wide-bandgap material TiO2 as a photosensitive layer with the WSe2/2DEG heterostructure, creating a hybrid WSe2/TiO2/2DEG heterojunction. This hybrid structure significantly improves the device’s photosensitivity, exhibiting a high rectification effect and a switching ratio of 103. The photodetector shows excellent performance, with a responsivity of 0.61 A W−1 and a detectivity of up to 1.1×1011 Jones at 405 nm, along with a very fast photoresponse speed. The buried TiO2 channel allows photogenerated electrons to easily flow through the reduced barrier at the depleted region. This hybrid heterojunction holds promise for the development of high-performance photoelectric devices.
Influence of inconel interlayer on microstructural, mechanical and electrochemical characteristics in single-pass ATIG welding of dissimilar austenitic and duplex stainless steel
Authors: Fande Ashish , Kavishwar Samrat , Tandon Vipin , Narayane Dheeraj C , Bandhu Din
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the impact of Inconel 625 interlayer on dissimilar welded low nickel austenitic stainless steel (LNiASS) and super duplex stainless steel (S32760) using activated tungsten inert gas (ATIG) welding. Two weldments were prepared: with and without (autogenous) interlayer. Geometrical investigation of the weld cross sections revealed that interlayer-based welding significantly increased the depth of penetration and decreased weld width as compared to autogenous welding at the same welding current. The dual microstructure was observed in the weld zone (WZ) of autogenous weldment while fully austenitic structure with few intermetallics was observed in the WZ of interlayer-based weldment. Mechanical properties, particularly impact strength observed to be improved in the case of interlayer-based weldment (91 ± 2 J) compared to autogenous weldment (68 ± 2 J). Lower microhardness was noticed for the WZ of interlayer-based weldment (258 ± 3 HV0.2) than WZ of autogenous (279 ± 2 HV0.2) weldment due to the presence of higher content of Ni. However, UTS of interlayer-based weldment (654 MPa), falls short in comparison to the autogenous weldment (693 MPa), indicating a compromised joint efficiency of 5.96%. The corrosion resistance was observed to be higher for the WZ of interlayer-based weldment attributed to the higher content of Ni and Mo. The sensitization study revealed 47.33% degree of sensitization in the WZ of autogenous weldments due to dual microstructure, while interlayer-based weldments showed no sensitization.
Evaluating optimal quality assurance and quality control conditions of activation measurements at the accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy system employing a lithium target
Authors: Suzuki Shunsuke , Yagihashi Takayuki , Nitta Kazunori , Yamanaka Masashi , Sato Naoki , Gotoh Shinichi , Sugimoto Satoru , Shiba Shintaro , Nagata Hironori , Tanaka Hiroki
Published: May 2024

Evaluating neutron output is important to ensure proper dose delivery for patients in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). It requires efficient quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) while maintaining measurement accuracy. This study investigated the optimal measurement conditions for QA/QC of activation measurements using a high-purity germanium (HP-Ge) detector in an accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy (AB-BNCT) system employing a lithium target. The QA/QC uncertainty of the activation measurement was evaluated based on counts, reproducibility, and standard radiation source uncertainties. Measurements in a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) cylindrical phantom using aluminum-manganese (Al–Mn) foils and aluminum-gold (Al–Au) foils and measurements in a water phantom using gold wire with and without cadmium cover were performed to determine the optimal measurement conditions. The QA/QC uncertainties of the activation measurements were 4.5% for Au and 4.6% for Mn. The optimum irradiation proton charge and measurement time were determined to be 36 C and 900 s for measurements in a PMMA cylindrical phantom, 7.0 C and 900 s for gold wire measurements in a water phantom, and 54 C and 900 s at 0–2.2 cm depth and 3,600 s at deeper depths for gold wire measurements with cadmium cover. Our results serve as a reference for determining measurement conditions when performing QA/QC of activation measurements using HP-Ge detectors at an AB-BNCT employing a lithium target.