Information Carriers Research Articles

Laminated Information Encryption with Printer Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

In order to improve the security of information encryption, this paper proposes a novel method based on laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technology in conjunction with a commercial general-purpose inkjet printer. A “sandwich” model, comprising three layers of a black ink block, a blue ink layer containing encrypted information, and another black ink block in order to render the information layer undetectable by other conventional optical imagers, was proposed. Because of the lower resolution requirements and better error tolerance of the Quick Response (QR) code, it was used as encryption information carrier. The “sandwich” structure was printed onto original paper using a commercial inkjet printer. The spatial distribution of the “LIBS secret key” on the paper was analyzed by LIBS spectra at different locations. After baseline removal, normalization, and spectral superposition, the contrast of decrypted images is enhanced to extract hidden information effectively. This method has the advantages of high security, low cost, and simple fabrication. It provides a new method with a potential application prospect for LIBS in the field of information encryption.

NON-INVASIVE VIBROACOUSTIC DIAGNOSTICS OF CAR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES

Over the past ten years, the number of vehicles on the roads has almost doubled. The consequences of this state are negative effects, which include an increased number of road accidents and an increased level of harmful emissions into the atmosphere, along with other forms of environmental pollution. Road safety level is the sum of the safety levels of each element of the human-vehicle-environment system. In order to maintain the appropriate level of road safety, vehicles must be maintained in proper technical condition, and for this purpose, it is necessary to detect all types of damage at an early stage. All types of methods that allow non-invasive diagnosis of the technical condition of vehicles and their individual components seem to be extremely useful. It is important that they allow for detecting emerging faults in their early stages of development. Such tools undoubtedly include methods using vibration and acoustic signals as carriers of information about technical condition. Their appropriate processing and use in diagnostic systems that additionally use artificial intelligence makes it possible to meet the requirements for diagnostic systems. From a global perspective, this additionally enables the impact on reducing the costs of civilization development, including social costs. The article presents the use of various methods of processing vibroacoustic signals and artificial intelligence tools used to diagnose damage to combustion engines in cars.

Multimodal Discourse Interpretation of the Paris Olympics Mascot

Background: This study aims to analyze the design intention of the mascot of the Paris Olympics from a multimodal perspective. As the host of the 2024 Olympic Games, Paris' mascot carries rich meanings. With globalization and technological advancement, information spreads multimodally, and multimodal discourse analysis is important to understand how the mascot interacts with different audiences, conveys meanings as well as bridges cultural differences, and spreads the Olympic spirit and cultural heritage of the host country. Methods: Taking Kress and Van Leeuwen's visual grammar as the theoretical basis, based on multimodal discourse analysis under the perspective of social semiotics, and combining with the analysis indexes in the multimodal image analysis software, the mascots of the Paris Olympic Games are visualized and interpreted to explore their image characteristics, design concepts and social significance. Results: the mascot is analyzed from three aspects: reproduction meaning, composition meaning and interaction meaning. In terms of reproduction, the mascot is related to the Olympic Games and French culture; in terms of composition, the emblem and other elements are the core information carrier, and the color and other elements play an important role; in terms of interaction, the mascot has a variety of interactions with the viewers and so on. Conclusion: Olympic mascots are important components of Olympic culture. The multimodal discourse analysis comprehensively and accurately interpreted the connotation of the mascot of the Paris Olympic Games, reflecting the information of the organizing country and integrating it with the Olympic movement, reflecting the spirit of sports. The study has deficiencies, and the mascots can be further explored in the real context.

Development of new systems based on hydrotalcites for stabilization and deacidification of paper information carriers

Development of new systems based on hydrotalcites for stabilization and deacidification of paper information carriers

Interaction between laser phase-locking and laser pointing for a space gravitational wave interferometer

We have conducted both theoretical and experimental investigations into the interaction between laser phase-locking and laser pointing techniques, which are crucial for space gravitational wave detection missions. Both techniques are essential for minimizing phase noise in the space interferometer, as the laser phase is the carrier of gravitational wave information. Introducing phase noise from either technique can significantly degrade the mission’s performance. To date, both techniques have been studied independently. Our research reveals the interaction that the laser phase-locking technique is sensitive to the laser pointing technique. The laser phase-locking technique suppresses one phase information from the quadrant photo diode (QPD) and disrupts the differential wave sensing (DWS) function for the laser pointing technique. Such circumstances indicate a need for re-evaluation of the current designs for both techniques.

Control of coherent phonon dynamics in CoFeB/heavy metal heterojunction structures for future hybrid phononic and spintronic devices

Abstract The heterojunction structure of CoFeB/heavy metal has shown significant potential for spintronics, where both electrons and magnons potentially can serve as information carriers. However, another promising information carrier, coherent phonons, has not been fully explored for hybrid phononic and spintronic devices. In this study, we used time-resolved pump–probe spectroscopy to investigate the dynamic behaviour of coherent phonons. We observed variations in reflectivity spectra, corresponding to changes in phonon frequency and relaxation times, with different thicknesses of the heavy metal and CoFeB layers. The experimental results demonstrated a decrease in coherent phonon oscillation frequency as the thickness of the CoFeB and heavy metal layers increased. These findings were further supported by first-principles calculations, which showed that the frequency of the optical modes is suppressed due to interface relaxation between the magnetic and heavy metal layers.

Steering Nonlinear Chiral Valley Photons Through Optical Orbit–Orbit Coupling

AbstractTwo‐dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides feature a direct tunable bandgap and robust spin‐valley coupling, offering an additional valley degree of freedom for information carriers. While optical spin‐orbit coupling has traditionally facilitated valley manipulation, on‐chip control of nonlinear valley photons remains elusive. Here, the directional coupling of nonlinear chiral valley photons through optical orbit‐orbit coupling in monolayer tungsten disulfide at room temperature is demonstrated. The chirality of nonlinear valley photons is governed by the spin angular momentum of the pump light, adhering to nonlinear selection rules. Importantly, the coupling direction is controlled by the orbital angular momentum of the pump light, facilitated by the orbital momentum flux. This approach not only provides a novel method for manipulating the valley degree of freedom but also enhances the flexibility of directing valley photon emission and on‐chip routing. These developments hold promising prospects for advanced valley optoelectronic devices.

A Real-Time Associative Feature-Based Customer Relationship Management and Enterprise Resource Planning Integration Model for Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises

Abstract Customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) have been extensively discussed in the research literature respectively. However, existing studies do not reach a complete agreement on the CRM/ERP integration method, especially for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Generally, this work proposed a novel method for CRM/ERP integration approach via associative feature technology. A new feature type, Real-time Data Link Board (RDLB), is developed and detailed as a generic information carrier solution for multisystem integration between CRM and ERP packages. Valuable data elements are mapped into such data boards dynamically and synchronized across different data sources, structures, and databases. The contribution of this work is to present a well-defined and generically reusable data carrier definition, alongside related methods for ensuring consistent data modeling during the system integration phase across various digitalization engineering implementation projects. With this approach, the consistent management of data integration across intricate systems is achievable throughout application lifecycles, supported by the object-oriented software engineering foundation.

Lateralized nodose ganglia gene expression implicates cholecystokinin receptors in interoceptive reward signaling.

The vagus nerves are important carriers of sensory information from the viscera to the central nervous system. Emerging evidence suggests that sensory signaling through the right, but not the left, vagus nerve evokes striatal dopamine release and reinforces appetitive behaviors. However, the extent to which differential gene expression within vagal sensory neurons contributes to this asymmetric reward-related signaling remains unknown. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing to identify genes that are differentially expressed between the left and right nodose ganglia (NG) to identify candidate genes likely to contribute to vagus-mediated reward signaling. We find that a group of neurons expressing Chrna3 (nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit 3) and Cckar (cholecystokinin A receptor) is preferentially expressed in the right NG of both rats and mice. This result suggests that differential expression of gut-innervating nutrient sensors in NG neurons may contribute to asymmetric encoding of interoceptive rewards by the vagus nerves.

Face emojis vs. Non-face emojis: Exploring neural mechanisms in text processing

With the rapid development of digital communication, emojis have played an increasingly important role in computer-mediated communication (CMC). Although Non-face emojis account for approximately 90 % of emoji usage, related research remains relatively scarce. Furthermore, there is limited exploration of the differences in the mechanisms of text processing between Face and Non-face emojis. The aim of this study is to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying the differences in text processing between Face emojis and Non-face emojis. We employed a semantic violation paradigm to analyze the cognitive processes of 28 participants as they processed texts in which emojis replaced words. The experimental materials consisted of 8 target stimuli, each corresponding to 15 text sentences. The results indicate that Non-face emojis elicited a strong N400 effect in incongruent texts, suggesting that Non-face emojis may have higher semantic complexity and can function as substitutes for words. In contrast, Face emojis primarily elicited an LNC component, indicating that they are more likely to be perceived as symbols of emotional expression rather than carriers of explicit semantic information. These results reveal the distinct roles of Face and Non-face emojis in text comprehension, providing new insights into emoji semantics and their impact on language processing.

Highly scalable quantum router with frequency-independent scattering spectra

Abstract Optical quantum routers play a crucial role in quantum networks and have been extensively studied in both theory and experiment, leading to significant advancements in their performance. However, these routers impose stringent requirements for achieving desired routing results, as the incident photon frequency must be in strict resonance with one or several specific frequencies. To address this challenge, we propose an efficient quantum router scheme composed of semi-infinite coupled-resonator waveguide (CRW) and a giant atom. The single-channel router scheme enables stable output with 100% transfer rate over the entire energy band of the CRW. Leveraging this intriguing result, we further propose a multi-channel router scheme that possesses high stability and universality, while also being capable of performing various functionalities. The complete physical explanation of the underlying mechanism for this intriguing result is also presented. We hope that quantum router with output results unaffected by the frequency of the incoming information carriers presents a more reliable solution for the implementation of quantum networks.

Image restoration through few-mode fiber using a new comprehensive attention model

Few-mode fibers (FMF) has unique advantages in single fiber imaging (SFI) in special applications. However, the limited number of transmission modes restricts the information carriers, hence the high-quality image restoration is a major challenge. A deep learning network with new comprehensive attention, called few-mode fiber Swin Transformer (FFST), is developed based on Swin Transformer V2 to realize successful image restoration with a FMF on handwriting letters and numbers. This network is proved outperforming nine widely used convolutional neural networks or Transformer-based models with four evaluation criteria. In addition, single-fiber-multi-location (SFML) experiment is conducted to investigate the effect of different view on imaging feasibility, the result of which shows that SFML can improve the restoration quality despite one object corresponds to multiple different speckle images, indicating that multi-mapping relationships has constructive effect in single FMF imaging. This paper provides a method for imaging in very narrow cavities.

Valley switch effect in an α-T3 lattice-based superconducting interferometer

Abstract Dirac electrons possess a valley degree of freedom, which is currently under investigation as a potential information carrier. We propose an approach to generate and manipulate the valley-switching current (VSC) through Andreev reflection using an interferometer-based superconductor hybrid junction. The interferometer comprises a ring-shaped structure formed by topological kink states in the α-T3 lattice via carefully designed electrostatic potentials. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of achieving a fully polarized VSC in this device without contamination from cotunneling electrons sharing the same valley as the incident electron. Furthermore, we show that control over the fully polarized VSC can be achieved by applying a nonlocal gate voltage or modifying the global parameter α. The former alters the dynamic phase of electrons while the latter provides an α-dependent Berry phase, both directly influencing quantum interference and thereby affecting performance in terms of generating and manipulating VSC, crucial for advancements in valleytronics.

A Reconsideration of Imaginative Points of Resistance

In this short piece, I want to explore the idea that limits of imagination, that I refer to here as to ‘points of resistance’, can play an essential role in certain imaginative tasks. To show how points of resistance can be carriers of crucial information, I focus here on the analysis of 9/11. Leaving aside personal and political implications, I investigate the possible plausibility of some statements of the US Secretary of the Defense at the time of the attacks, attributing the cause of 9/11 to imagination. I propose that, despite being dismissed as an outrageous analysis of responsibilities involved in the success of the terroristic attacks, there could be a role that a failure of imagination might have played.

Linguistic landscape in George Town, Malaysia: Language visibility in a postcolonial and globalized context

The visibility of languages in the linguistic landscape reflects various aspects of linguistic diversity and dynamics in a given territory, signifying social interactions, identities, and power relationships among ethnic groups. However, postcolonial acontexts with widespread use of ethnic minority languages and the coexistence of state-sponsored national languages with precolonial official languages in the era of globalization have received limited research. This paper investigates the visibility of language in three neighbourhoods in George Town, Malaysia, a former administrative city under British governance, focusing on language visibility within three distinct neighborhoods: Chinatown, Little India, and the Beach Street. The study reveals a complex interplay of languages, highlighting the predominance of English as an information carrier and a symbol of modernity, alongside the increasing prominence of Chinese and the lesser visibility of Tamil and underrepresentation of other minority languages. The research underscores the ethnic boundaries between the vibrant enclaves of Little India and Chinatown, while Beach Street serves as a multicultural space reflecting a blend of local and global influences.

Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Assess Physicians’ Willingness to Share Electronic Medical Records in a Hierarchical Diagnostic Ecosystem

In order to promote the practice of the hierarchical diagnosis system in China, We looked into electronic medical record-the important information carrier of patient health data. Based on literature reading and pre-investigation, a model of influencing factors of doctors’ willingness to use and share electronic medical records under the background of the implementation of the hierarchical diagnosis and treatment system was constructed. The questionnaire was designed with the traditional model and the questionnaire data were collected. The structural equation model was used to test the constructed model. The results show that the perceived usefulness of electronic medical records has the most significant impact on the willingness to share. Perceived ease of use and privacy protection of patient information have significant effects on sharing intention. In the future, the construction of electronic medical record system should be based on improving its use value and considering its convenience.

Generation of partially coherent full Poincaré beam arrays and their Stokes scintillations in turbulent media

A type of vector beam arrays, called partially coherent full Poincaré (PCFP) beam arrays, is introduced and experimentally synthesized using modal-vector-decomposition method. Our experimental system involves a digital micro-mirror device, which can generate such beam arrays with controllable spatial coherence and array structure in almost real-time, enabling to test the impact of atmospheric turbulence on them. Furthermore, we experimentally examine the scintillations of four Stokes parameters (denoted as S0, S1, S2, and S3) of PCFP beam arrays propagating through lab-simulated turbulence. The results indicate that the Stokes scintillations decrease as the number of beamlets increase or spatial coherence decreases. In contrast to S0 scintillation (intensity scintillation), S1, S2, or S3 scintillation is less affected by the turbulence under the same conditions. Our experimental results show that S2 and S3 scintillations could reduce by 67.2% and 52.4% compared to the intensity scintillation in strong turbulence. Our findings have potential applications in free-space optical communication when the Stokes parameter S2 or S3 is served as an information carrier.

Mechanistic effects of lipid binding pockets within soluble signaling proteins: Lessons from acyl-CoA-binding and START-domain-containing proteins.

While lipids serve as important energy reserves, metabolites, and cellular constituents in all forms of life, these macromolecules also function as unique carriers of information in plant communication given their diverse chemical structures. The signal transduction process involves a sophisticated interplay between messengers, receptors, signal transducers, and downstream effectors. Over the years, an array of plant signaling proteins have been identified for their crucial roles in perceiving lipid signals. However, the mechanistic effects of lipid binding on protein functions remain largely elusive. Recent literature has presented numerous fascinating models that illustrate the significance of protein-lipid interactions in mediating signaling responses. This review focuses on the category of lipophilic signaling proteins that encompass a hydrophobic binding pocket located outside of cellular membranes and provides an update on the lessons learned from two of these structures, namely the acyl-CoA-binding and START domains. It begins with a brief overview of the latest advances in understanding the functions of the two protein families in plant communication. The second part highlights five functional mechanisms of lipid ligands in concert with their target signaling proteins.

Skyrmion motion monitoring based on a ferromagnetic nanodot chain

As one of the most promising information carriers, the generation, manipulation, and detection of magnetic skyrmions have emerged as a hot topic in the field of spintronics. However, a major bottleneck to their practical application lies in the existing limitations of detection technology, which fails to accurately locate skyrmions or monitor their real-time motion behavior. In this work, we propose a patterned heterostructure scheme comprising a nanodot chain (NDC) layer and a skyrmion nano-racetrack layer for precise monitoring of skyrmion motion. By exploiting the stray field generated by the moving skyrmion within the racetrack layer, magnetization changes are induced in nanodots within the NDC layer. These changes then translate into high-frequency magnetization oscillation signals that encode valuable information about the dynamic characteristics of driven skyrmions, such as speed and acceleration of the skyrmion, either by spin waves or spin currents. This scheme holds great potential for advancing spintronic devices based on a profound understanding of skyrmion dynamics.

Ionic Potential Relaxation Effect in a Hydrogel Enabling Synapse-Like Information Processing.

The next-generation brain-like intelligence based on neuromorphic architectures emphasizes learning the ionic language of the brain, aiming for efficient brain-like computation and seamless human-computer interaction. Ionic neuromorphic devices, with ions serving as information carriers, provide possibilities to achieve this goal. Soft and biocompatible ionic conductive hydrogels are an ideal substrate for constructing ionic neuromorphic devices, but it remains a challenge to modulate the ion transport behavior in hydrogels to mimic neuroelectric signals. Here, we describe an ionic potential relaxation effect in a hydrogel device prepared by sandwiching a layer of polycationic hydrogel (CH) between two layers of neutral hydrogel (NH), allowing this device to simulate various electrical signal patterns observed in biological synapses, including short- and long-term plasticity patterns. Theoretical and experimental results show that the selective permeation and hysteretic diffusion of ions caused by the anion selectivity of the CH layer are responsible for potential relaxation. Such an effect allows us with hydrogels to enable synapse-like information processing functions, including tactile perception, learning, memory, and neuromorphic computing. Additionally, the hydrogel device can operate stably even under 180° bending and 50% tensile strain, expanding the pathway for implementing advanced brain-like intelligent systems.