Search Results (1,139)

Quantum beams-including X-rays, synchrotron radiation, electrons, neutrons, ions, and ultrafast photon sources-are indispensable tools for probing the structure, dynamics, and electronic properties of matter. The excitation time scale ${\tau }_{exc}$ is defined operationally as the characteristic temporal interval governing externally imposed energy deposition events within the interaction volume, such as pulse duration, bunch spacing, or beam dwell time. Interpretation of beam–matter interactions has traditionally relied on steady-state or quasi-equilibrium assumptions, implicitly presuming that intrinsic material relaxation processes can accommodate externally imposed excitation. Recent advances in high-brightness synchrotron sources, X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs), and pulsed electron beams increasingly operate in regimes where this assumption is strained, and systematic nonequilibrium effects, radiation damage, and irreversible transformations are reported even under routine experimental conditions. This work examines the role of time-scale mismatch between beam-driven energy deposition and intrinsic material relaxation as a governing constraint in beam–matter interactions. Analyzing the hierarchy of excitation, electronic relaxation, phonon coupling, and thermal diffusion time scales, the analysis introduces a dimensionless mismatch parameter $\mathsf{\Lambda }={\displaystyle \frac{{\tau }_{rel}}{{\tau }_{exc}}}$, which quantifies the competition between externally imposed excitation and intrinsic relaxation processes in beam–matter interactions. The resulting framework provides a unified physical interpretation of beam-induced damage, signal distortion, dose dependence, and nonlinear response across quantum beam modalities, framing these effects as consequences of forced nonequilibrium dynamics rather than technique-specific artifacts. Full article

Postseismic deformation observed by terrestrial Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and seafloor GNSS-Acoustic techniques (GNSS-A) provides essential constraints on the depth-dependent viscoelastic structure of subduction zones. In this study, we collect and process decadal postseismic observations following the 2011 Tohoku-oki M_w9.0 earthquake, including 232 onshore GNSS stations and six offshore GNSS-A sites. After removing the interseismic velocity terms, we extract the postseismic deformation signals mainly driven by viscoelastic relaxation during the period from 3 to 9 years after the earthquake. The inversion is primarily constrained by horizontal displacements, which have higher accuracy than vertical observations. We adopt a radially layered viscoelastic Earth model with lateral heterogeneity between continental and oceanic domains based on the Burgers rheology and half-space dislocation theory. Using the least-squares principle, we invert for the optimal viscoelastic structure under the strong constraint of fixed mantle viscosity. The optimal continental and oceanic crustal elastic thicknesses are 24.4 km and 37 km, with minimum horizontal Root-Mean-Square errors (RMS) of 5.68 cm and 6.81 cm, respectively. The mantle viscosity shows significant depth-dependence and obvious land–ocean differences. These results verify the critical role of joint land and seafloor geodetic constraints and provide a refined viscoelastic structure model for subduction zones. Full article

The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of eighteen different extracts derived from basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) leaves on spontaneous contractions, as well as contractions induced by potassium chloride (KCl) and acetylcholine in the ileum of rats, under in vitro conditions. The extracts were prepared with 96% v/v, 80% v/v, and 60% v/v ethanol, and absolute (100%) v/v, 80% v/v, and 60% v/v methanol, employing extraction techniques that included maceration, digestion, and sonication-assisted methods. Chemical characterization of the extracts revealed the presence of various phenolic acids, including rosmarinic, chlorogenic, caftaric, salvianolic acid B, cinnamic, caffeic, and chicoric acid, as well as flavonoids such as rutin and salvigenin. The evaluated extracts produced significant, concentration-dependent inhibitory effects on rat ileal contractions. Notably, the extract obtained via maceration with 80% methanol exhibited the most pronounced relaxant effects on spontaneous muscle contractions, achieving a maximum reduction of 46.16 ± 2.11%. Furthermore, the extract prepared with the same solvent using sonication-assisted extraction demonstrated superior efficacy in diminishing both the frequency and amplitude of KCl-induced ileal contractions, reducing contraction intensity caused by elevated potassium ion levels to 59.48 ± 3.34% at a maximum concentration of 1.5 mg/mL, thereby indicating its potential as a potent calcium channel blocker. Additionally, the extract prepared with 60% methanol through sonication-assisted extraction resulted in the most substantial reduction of acetylcholine-induced ileal contractions, decreasing contraction intensity to 35.74 ± 1.54% at the maximum concentration of 1.5 mg/mL, which suggests a high level of neurophysiological activity. By comparing extracts with different phytochemical profiles, this study provides additional insight into how variations in phenolic composition may influence different mechanisms of smooth muscle relaxation. This study affirms the significant spasmolytic properties of basil leaf extracts, thereby supporting their potential application in the management of gastrointestinal motility disorders. Full article

Randomized response is a widely used survey technique for measuring stigmatized populations, but it may provide limited information in small samples. This paper introduces a method of elicitation through perfectly correlated questions, showing that correlation can substantially improve statistical performance and allow a dominant-strategy mechanism when either the interviewer or respondents hold symmetric beliefs. The framework also allows the interviewer to possess private information about the distribution of questions, further relaxing incentive constraints. Building on an existing survey design game framework, the paper introduces a novel efficiency-normalized comparison that holds statistical performance constant across mechanisms, enabling a direct comparison of incentives. The analysis characterizes incentive properties and estimation under correlated questions and randomized response, and identifies when it is optimal to ask respondents directly, use randomized response, or correlate questions. Full article

The motivation for this paper is that most of the works on secondary frequency control are focused on conventional synchronous communication approaches. To extend this research, this paper investigates the sampled-data-based $H_{\infty }$ load frequency control (LFC) problem for fractional-order islanded microgrids under a multi-region communication scheme. In contrast to conventional synchronous communication approaches, the proposed scheme allows each regional sensor to operate asynchronously based on its own sampling interval. To model this multi-region communication mechanism, a unified sampling sequence is constructed by collecting all sampling instants from regional sensors. Accordingly, a closed-loop system model is established through the introduction of virtual state variables. Furthermore, a novel class of looped functionals is developed to fully exploit the sampling interval characteristics of each regional sensor. By employing inequality techniques and stability analysis, sufficient conditions are derived to achieve multi-region sampled-data-based $H_{\infty }$ LFC for fractional-order islanded microgrids. In addition, a co-design method is proposed to simultaneously determine the control gain and the maximum allowable sampling period. The simulations are conducted in MATLAB/Simulink (R2024a) and the LMI conditions are solved by using the LMI Toolbox and YALMIP. Finally, comprehensive simulations in MATLAB/Simulink validate the proposed scheme. For the two-region system, the method achieves a maximum sampling period of ${\zeta }_{\max }=0.106$ s with an $H_{\infty }$ performance ratio of $2.87$ (below $\gamma =5$) and settling times of $8.5$ s and $9.2$ s. Compared to synchronous sampling, it reduces the communication bandwidth by 50% for slower regions while maintaining comparable performance. For the single-region multi-rate case ($0.104$ s and $0.140$ s sampling periods), the $H_{\infty }$ ratio is $3.12$, also satisfying $\gamma =5$. The relationship between $\gamma$ and ${\zeta }_{\max }$ is quantified: ${\zeta }_{\max }$ increases from $0.050$ s to $0.106$ s as $\gamma$ increases from 3 to 5, confirming that relaxed disturbance attenuation allows larger sampling intervals. Full article

Epoxy materials are an important class of thermosets whose properties strongly depend on the used formula, the curing parameters, and many available hardeners. Achieving desired properties such as enhanced thermal stability, extended lifetime, or self-regeneration requires selecting suitable precursors and carefully tuning curing conditions. In this work, a selected biphenyl epoxy precursor was used as a model compound to assess whether using different hardeners could be an effective factor in tailoring the elasticity of cured epoxy networks. We employed two chemically distinct hardeners—4,4′ diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) and suberic acid—to generate materials with markedly different final properties. For instance, the glass transition temperature T_g varied within a range of over 35 °C. Two complementary experimental techniques were used in this paper to establish the optimal curing parameters: differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS). Both techniques supported tracking of changes in the mixture while curing and enabled determination of T_g in the obtained products. Dielectric relaxation spectroscopy revealed various molecular motions (α, β, and γ-processes) occurring in different phases, especially in glass-forming solids. BDS is therefore a good tool for testing new organic materials. The analytic route used in this work, based on a combination of calorimetric and electrical approaches, enables precise adjustment of the curing parameters to a specific hardener and helps verify the effects of using different hardeners on the elastic properties of the product. This allows the creation and modification of epoxy matrices towards modern materials, such as composites with self-healing properties or enhanced thermal stability. Full article

Ultrafast spin dynamics is a core research focus for advancing ultrafast spintronic devices, yet its accurate quantitative probing remains a challenge with conventional time-resolved techniques. Herein, we employ double-pump optical pump–terahertz emission spectroscopy (OPTE) to investigate the ultrafast spin dynamics of a Pt/Gd₁₉(Co_0.8Fe_0.2)₈₁/Ta ferrimagnetic rare-earth–transition-metal heterostructure. Experimental measurements resolve a single-step ultrafast demagnetization process with a characteristic time of ~0.42 ± 0.02 ps, followed by two-stage magnetic recovery involving a fast relaxation and a slow relaxation process. The fast and slow recovery time constants show a distinct positive dependence on the control pump fluence, increasing from 2.49 ± 0.11 ps to 3.28 ± 0.03 ps and 57.36 ± 11.28 ps to 164.96 ± 1.61 ps, respectively, as the pump fluence rises from 0.80 to 1.19 mJ/cm². The ~0.42 ps demagnetization timescale is consistent with that of 3d transition metals, indicating the transient magnetic response of the low-Gd-concentration heterostructure is dominated by the CoFe sublattice. Our findings validate that OPTE is an effective approach for the quantitative characterization of electron–lattice–spin coupling processes in spin-based heterostructures and provide critical experimental insights for controllable manipulation of ultrafast spin dynamics, laying a foundation for the design of ultrafast terahertz spintronic devices. Full article

The relaxation calorimeter option in the commercial Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS) has become widely used. Since its introduction, the capabilities of this technique for specific heat measurements have been critically discussed, particularly to avoid misinterpretation of data near phase transitions. Traditional methods rely on cooling curves after sample excitation, where sharp latent heat contributions during heating lead to clear deviations from the fitting model. However, subtle but extended enthalpy contributions (e.g., strain release) may mask these effects, allowing both heating and cooling curves to be well fitted using the standard PPMS protocol. In this work, we develop a procedure that assumes a constant extra power supplied due to subtle enthalpy contributions, enabling consistent interpretation of both heating and cooling curves. This procedure allows: (1) correction of specific heat measurements; and (2) quantification of the enthalpy involved in the transition. The procedure is applied to a magnetic-field-induced transformation in MnCo(Fe)Ge(Si) alloys. Two samples were studied: a single-phase austenite without any field-induced transition, used as a reference, and a mixed austenite-martensite sample, in which apparent deviations in the conductance of the wires evidence the presence of the anomaly. Full article

In this paper, we propose an efficient numerical algorithm for solving large-scale ill-posed linear inverse problems encountered in image restoration. To boost computational efficiency, we extend the structured fast iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm (sFISTA) for addressing the corresponding $l_1$-regularized minimization problem, and further introduce the over-relaxation technique to accelerate the algorithm. The proposed algorithm is termed structured over-relaxed monotone FISTA (sOMFISTA). The convergence analysis of sOMFISTA is also conducted. The algorithmic framework of sOMFISTA is universally applicable to any non-smooth convex regularization term, exhibiting remarkable flexibility. Extensive numerical experiments are carried out to systematically validate the superiority in efficiency and performance of the proposed sOMFISTA. Full article

Urban blue-green spaces (UBGS) are crucial nature-based solutions for enhancing urban resilience and improving public health. This study examined the experiential relationships linking BGS use to human well-being among users of five urban parks in Delhi, India. Using an integrated experience-centered framework, we collected in-situ survey data (n = 411) to profile usage patterns, assess environmental quality, and quantify restorative outcomes grounded in Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and Stress Reduction Theory (SRT). Advanced analytical techniques, including ordinal logistic regression and interpretable machine learning (SHAP), were used to identify the key factors associated with user satisfaction. The results revealed that for these respondents, BGS appeared to function as an essential neighbourhood, with over 40% visiting three or more times per week. Although visual attractiveness was rated positively, deficits in noise buffering and amenities indicated a gap between aesthetic and functional qualities. Restorative benefits, including emotional calmness, mood refreshment, and fatigue recovery, were consistently reported among respondents. Analyses showed that embodied experiences, particularly post-visit relaxation and physical comfort, were more strongly associated with user satisfaction. SHAP interpretation highlighted seating adequacy, routine use, and thermal comfort as prominent contributors, suggesting somatic relief may be particularly salient. This study provides exploratory evidence from a Global South megacity and context-sensitive insights into how restorative processes operate under high-density urban conditions. The findings show that routine accessibility, basic amenities, and thermal comfort are central to the everyday functioning of blue-green spaces as urban infrastructure, underscoring the need for experience-responsive and equity-oriented urban greening policies in high-density cities. Full article

Background: Combinatorial optimization problems (COPs) are central to Logistics and Supply Chain decision making, yet their NP-hardness prevents exact optimal solutions in reasonable time. Methods: This work addresses that limitation by developing a novel ternary network flow linear programming (LP) model of the assignment problem (AP) polytope. The model is very large scale (with $\mathsf{\Theta }\left(m^9\right)$ variables and $\mathsf{\Theta }\left(m^8\right)$ constraints, where m is the number of assignments). Although not intended to compete with conventional two-dimensional formulations of the AP with respect to solution procedures, it enables hard COPs to be solved exactly as “strict” (integrality requirements-free) LPs through simple transformations of their cost functions. Illustrations are given for the quadratic assignment problem (QAP) and the traveling salesman problem (TSP). Results: Because the proposed LP model is polynomial-sized and there exist polynomial-time algorithms for solving LPs, it affirms “$P=NP$.” A separable substructure of the model shows promise for practical-scale instances due to its suitability for large-scale optimization techniques such as Dantzig–Wolfe Decomposition, Column Generation, and Lagrangian Relaxation. The formulation also has greater robustness relative to standard network flow models. Conclusions: Overall, the approach provides a systematic, modeling-barrier-free framework for representing NP-complete problems as polynomial-sized LPs, with clear theoretical interest and practical potential for medium to large-scale Logistics and other COP-intensive applications. Full article

We investigate the use of non-invasive, dual-wavelength (630 nm red/940 nm near-infrared) LED irradiation of the skull for relieving chronic neck and shoulder pain. A low-energy device was applied bilaterally for 15 min, with assessments of pain performed using the numeric rating scale (NRS), muscle relaxation assessed via infrared thermography, and autonomic function determined through heart-rate variability (HRV) analysis. The results demonstrated a mean NRS score reduction of 2.4 points, a 0.6 °C increase in cervical skin temperature, and a significant increase in HRV’s root mean square of successive differences, indicating improved autonomic regulation. This technique shows promise for effectively relaxing muscles, alleviating pain, and enhancing autonomic function. Full article

This paper proposes a distributed vibration sensing system based on dual-chirped pulses and weak fiber Bragg gratings. Compared with conventional dual-pulse heterodyne detection techniques, the proposed approach utilizes the time-frequency characteristics of chirp signals, effectively relaxing the stringent requirements on the signal pulse width. In addition, when chirp signals with different chirp rates are adopted, frequency-division multiplexing technology can be realized to enhance the system’s response bandwidth. Last but not least, the sensing probe signal is generated in the optical domain using microwave photonic technology, which theoretically helps alleviate the dependence on arbitrary waveform generators. A simulation study on the system was conducted. Using a chirp signal of 200 MHz/μs and with a grating spacing of 50 m, the desired vibration signal is phased modulated onto a beat signal with a frequency of 100 MHz, and the allowable pulse width can be up to 500 ns. To verify frequency-division multiplexing capability further, an additional pair of chirped pulses with a chirp rate of 400 MHz/μs was introduced into the system, which was generated by frequency multiplication. The results demonstrate that the system response bandwidth is increased to twice the original bandwidth. The proposed scheme provides a new solution for performance enhancement in a distributed fiber optic vibration sensing system. Full article

Background: AchievTing primary fascial closure in complex incisional hernia repair can be challenging when abdominal wall compliance is reduced. Preoperative ultrasound-guided botulinum toxin A (BTA) is used as a chemical component relaxation adjunct, and intraoperative fascial traction (IFT) is a traction-based technique to facilitate medialization. This study assessed the association of adding BTA to a traction-treated cohort. Methods: Retrospective observational analysis of prospectively collected Herniamed Registry data from the Hamburg Hernia Center (1 February 2022–13 October 2025) was conducted. Elective incisional hernia repairs with IFT were included and stratified into BTA + IFT versus IFT-only. The primary outcome was primary fascial closure as documented in the registry. Categorical variables were compared using Fisher’s exact test. Results: A total of 81 patients were analyzed (BTA + IFT, n = 64; IFT-only, n = 17). Primary fascial closure was achieved in 51/64 (79.7%) in the BTA + IFT group and 8/17 (47.1%) in the IFT-only group (OR 4.3, 95% CI 1.22–15.84; p = 0.013). Mean operative time was similar (193 vs. 195 min). Mean length of stay was longer in the BTA + IFT group (8 vs. 5 days). Perioperative complications were recorded 8/64 (12.5%) in the BTA + IFT group and 0/17 (0.0%) in the IFT-only group. Conclusions: In traction-assisted incisional hernia repair, adjunctive preoperative ultrasound-guided BTA was associated with higher primary fascial closure rates compared with traction alone. Findings are hypothesis-generating due to non-randomized allocation and baseline differences between cohorts. Full article

In this paper, the Distribution of Relaxation Times (DRT) method is introduced for analyzing aging and failure conditions in lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, addressing challenges associated with its implementation. While Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and Equivalent Circuit Models (ECMs) are commonly used to monitor battery performance, their interpretation is often complicated by overlapping semicircles in impedance spectra. The DRT technique resolves this issue by deconvolving relaxation times, enabling the separation of individual electrochemical processes and providing a clearer understanding of aging and failure conditions. The peaks of lower frequency components in DRT plots, specifically the charge transfer and diffusion processes, are key indicators of the battery failure point. When these two processes merge, it signals that the battery can no longer function, marking a critical failure point in Li-ion batteries. Identifying failure conditions and aging in Li-ion batteries using DRT offers a more advanced approach compared to ECM, as it delivers greater detail in the electrochemical processes that contribute to performance degradation. The analysis of two kinds of different Lithium-Ion battery cells based on the DRT reveals the specific aging and failure patterns, particularly in later battery life stages. The findings demonstrate the potential of DRT as a real-time indicator to monitor the status and the lifecycle of the battery. Full article