Distinct Solutions Research Articles

Concentration effect on the chain structure and photoelectric properties of conjugated polymer precursor solutions and thin films: A mini review

AbstractConjugated polymers have attracted extensive attention in numerous research fields because of their exceptional photoelectric properties and distinctive solution processing capabilities. The conformation of the chain and the structure of the condensed state in solution are closely related to various factors, such as concentration and solvent. Concentration, as a significant external parameter, plays a crucial role in the self‐assembly and formation of crystalline structures in conjugated polymers. It also affects the properties of the solution, the structure of the membrane, and the performance of the fabricated devices. Recently, there have been an increasing number of studies conducted from the perspective of solution concentration. Therefore, it is important to comprehensively summarize the effect of concentration on the transition process of chain structure from solution to film, as well as the impact of concentration on the performance of related devices. In this review, we summarize the effects of concentration on the chain motion, particle size, ordered structure, and photoelectric properties of conjugated polymers in solutions and thin films, as well as on device efficiency. This provides a unique perspective on the fundamental characteristics of conjugated polymers, which can assist in the development and improvement of optoelectronic devices.

Geophysical monitoring of the groundwater resources in the Southern Arabian Peninsula using satellite gravity data

In recent decades, geophysical and remote sensing monitoring techniques have advanced to the point where they can be utilized. It is possible to investigate the spatiotemporal mass fluctuations induced by groundwater changes over the Southern Arabian Peninsula (SAP) by combining time-variable gravity data with land surface model outputs and rainfall data. Here are the findings: The average annual precipitation rates for the whole study region were 91.11, 87.6, and 96.61 mm yr−1 during the entire period (2002–2021), period before 2013, and period after 2012, respectively. The southern and eastern parts (Zone I) of the investigated region show modest rainfall rates of 109.6, 105, and 117 mm yr−1 during the whole period, period before 2013, and period after 2012, respectively. The Rub El Khali region (Zone II) is receiving lower precipitation rates of 54.6, 53.3, and 56.5 mm yr−1 throughout the whole period, period before 2013, and period after 2012, respectively. Based on the three distinct gravity solutions, the average Terrestrial Water Storage (ΔTWS) values are computed through the entire period to be − 0.21 ± 0.011, − 0.15 ± 0.013, and − 0.32 ± 0.0107 cm yr−1 for the whole study region, Zone of the southern and eastern regions, and Zone of Rub El Khali, respectively. The whole study region, Zone of the southern and eastern parts, and Zone of Rub El Khali are showing highly negative ΔTWS in the period before 2013, in comparison to slightly negative to slightly positive ΔTWS trends in period after 2012. The average annual change in groundwater storage for the entire study area was calculated at − 0.21 ± 0.011, − 0.29 ± 0.024, and − 0.091 ± 0.038 cm yr−1 throughout the investigated period, period before 2013, and period after 2012, respectively. Zone of Rub El Khali is showing higher negative groundwater storage trend (ΔGWS) averaged at − 0.32 ± 0.104 cm yr−1 throughout the investigated period, whereas Zone of southern and eastern regions is showing lower negative groundwater storage trend of − 0.15 ± 0.013 cm yr−1. Most of the recharge rate occurs in Zone of the southern and eastern regions reaching up to + 0.77 ± 0.092 cm yr−1 by taking the average groundwater withdrawal rate of + 0.92 ± 0.092 cm yr−1 during the whole period. This integrated approach is a valuable and economical method for more effectively assessing the variations of groundwater resources across wide areas.

Soliton solutions to a wave equation using the (ϕ'/ϕ)– expansion method

This article aims to explore and examine general soliton solutions within the context of the generalized Benjamin-Bona-Mahony equation. This equation is a significant mathematical tool employed in the study of wave dynamics in ocean physics. In this paper, we investigate and generate new propagating soliton solutions for the above-mentioned equation using the (ϕ′/ϕ) − expansion method, an elegant mathematical approach. Rational, trigonometric, and hyperbolic functions are used to express these solutions. In order to provide a visual comprehension of the complex physical phenomena regulating the system, we additionally demonstrate graphics in two and three dimensions. The study explores a range of parameter configurations that yield distinct soliton solutions. By visually depicting these solutions based on specific parameter choices, a deeper comprehension of the system's complex behavior is achieved. The article sheds light on novel findings concerning soliton solutions for the mentioned equation, unveiling previously unnoticed aspects of this captivating mathematical problem.

Optimizing option pricing: Exact and approximate solutions for the time-fractional Ivancevic model

This research investigates the time fractional Ivancevic option pricing model and presents two distinct solution methods: the invariant subspace method for obtaining exact solutions and the residual power series method for generating approximate solutions. In the invariant subspace method, we employ an algebraic approach to solve the time fractional Ivancevic option pricing model. By constructing an appropriate invariant subspace, we derive a system of fractional ordinary differential equations that characterizes the exact solution. This method provides a rigorous and efficient technique for generating various exact solutions. We also propose the residual power series method for obtaining approximate solutions. This method involves expressing the solution as an expansion of power functions and iteratively solving the residual equation to refine the approximation. By truncating the series expansion, we obtain an approximate solution that captures the essential features of the model while balancing computational efficiency and accuracy. Different graphs in 2-dimensions and 3-dimensions are presented to pioneer the obtained solutions. Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the invariant subspace method in generating exact solutions and shedding light on the model's dynamics. The residual power series method, on the other hand, provides a flexible and computationally efficient approach for obtaining reliable approximate solutions. The integration of exact and approximate methodologies presents a thorough structure for evaluating and valuing options in the time fractional Ivancevic option pricing model. This comprehensive approach yields valuable understandings for financial professionals and researchers alike.

PSX-26 A Comparison of Buffer Type and Methodology in Determination of in Vitro Digestibility of Four Bermudagrass Cultivars

Abstract Buffers are an essential component in various biochemical and biophysical assays, enabling the control of pH shifts in the environment. The Tilley and Terry (1963) and Goering Van Soest (1970) methods dominate in vitro forage digestibility research with equally viable results. However, the methods utilize distinct buffer solutions to control the in vitro environment. Given this divergence, it is of interest whether differences in estimates are a factor of the methodology, or the buffer solutions employed in the method. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD) methodology and buffer solution on digestibility estimates of four bermudagrass cultivars. We conducted our experiment as a randomized complete block design with a 2 × 2 × 4 factorial treatment structure. Approximately 1,000 mL of rumen content (solid and liquid fractions) were collected from two ruminally fistulated heifers in each of two periods (blocks). The samples were separated into two 500-mL aliquots; the first aliquot was subjected to the procedures of Tilley and Terry (1963), and the second aliquot was subjected to the Goering and Van Soest (1970) procedure. Duplicate samples of four bermudagrass cultivars (Coastal, Russell, Tifton 44, Tifton 85) were placed in 125-mL Erlenmeyer flasks and incubated according to the assigned in vitro method. One-half of the samples in each method received the methodologically prescribed buffer solution, and the other one-half in each method received the opposite buffer. There was no effect of in vitro method (P = 0.78), buffer solution (P = 0.53), or bermudagrass cultivar (P = 0.46), or their interactions (P ≥ 0.23) on IVDMD estimates in this experiment. Results are interpreted to mean that buffer type is not pivotal to methodological success, and both methods will yield similar estimates of digestibility.

Schwarzschild Black Holes in Extended Spacetime with Two Time Dimensions

Black holes are one of the most extreme phenomena in the Universe, bridging the gap between the realms of general relativity and quantum physics. Any matter that crosses the event horizon moves towards the core of the black hole, creating a singularity with infinite mass density—a phenomenon that cannot be comprehended within present theories of relativity and quantum physics. In this study, we undertake an investigation of non-rotating, non-charged Schwarzschild black holes in an extended spacetime framework with two time dimensions. To accomplish this, we extend Einstein’s field equations by one more temporal dimension. We solve the corresponding equations for a spherical central mass, which leads to an Abel-type equation for the 5D Schwarzschild metric. By exploring distinct solution classes, we present an approximate solution for the 5D metric. Our proposed solution maintains consistency with Schwarzschild’s 4D solution. Finally, we address the central black hole singularity and demonstrate a potential breakthrough, as our solution effectively avoids the singularity quandary, providing valuable insight into the fundamental properties of black holes in this augmented framework.

Propelling Multi-Modal Therapeutics of PEEK Implants through the Power of NO evolving Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs).

The design and fabrication of NO-evolving core-shell nanoparticles (denoted as NC@Fe), comprised of BNN6-laden COF@Fe3 O4 nanoparticles, are reported. This innovation extends to the modification of 3D printed polyetheretherketone scaffolds with NC@Fe, establishing a pioneering approach to multi-modal bone therapy tailored to address complications such as device-associated infections and osteomyelitis. This work stands out prominently from previous research, particularly those relying on the use of antibiotics, by introducing a bone implant capable of simultaneous NO gas therapy and photothermal therapy (PPT). Under NIR laser irradiation, the Fe3 O4 NP core (photothermal conversion agent) within NC@Fe absorbs photoenergy and initiates electron transfer to the loaded NO donor (BNN6), resulting in controlled NO release. The additional heat generated through photothermal conversion further propels the NC@Fe nanoparticles, amplifying the therapeutic reach. The combined effect of NO release and PPT enhances the efficacy in eradicating bacteria over a more extensive area around the implant, presenting a distinctive solution to conventional challenges. Thorough in vitro and in vivo investigations validate the robust potential of the scaffold in infection control, osteogenesis, and angiogenesis, emphasizing the timeliness of this unique solution in managing complicated bone related infectious diseases.

Geomechanical Properties of Clay Stabilised with Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Subjected to Long-Term Sulfate Attack

Fly ash-based geopolymers have emerged as an eco-friendly alternative binder compared to conventional Portland cement for soil stabilisation. However, the gap in the current literature is the lack of a comprehensive study regarding the geomechanical behaviour of fly ash geopolymer-treated clay subjected to long-term sulfate attack, particularly in terms of potential ettringite formation and the corresponding impact on cementitious soil structure. The goal of this paper is to address this knowledge gap and provide a comprehensive study to fulfil it. In this work, sulfate attack was simulated by submerging geopolymer-treated clay specimens in two distinct sulfate-based solutions (i.e., sodium and magnesium), for one year. Subsequently, comparative analyses of the geomechanical and microstructural changes in geopolymer-treated clay under various curing conditions were conducted through unconfined compressive strength, direct shear, volume change and microscopic tests. The findings indicate that the addition of geopolymer for the stabilisation of clay soil significantly improves soil strength without affecting the soil volumetric response. Although the clay used exhibited similar qualitative stress–strain behaviour across all simulated attacks, notable quantitative differences emerged in the peak strength, stiffness and shear strength parameters. Such discrepancies can primarily be attributed to the varying buffering capacities (i.e., pH changes associated with acidification) of the sulfate solutions and the subsequent residual pH, cementitious product formation and strength enhancement within the treated clay.

Enhancing rural drinking water safety using an Mg–Al-type layered double hydroxide foil as a new point-of-use disinfection tool

Abstract Point-of-use (POU) drinking water treatment is crucial for residents in resource-constrained areas. This study introduces a layered double hydroxide (LDH) foil, an innovative POU device that eliminates waterborne pathogens via adsorption. It is an aluminum foil coated with magnesium–aluminum (Mg–Al)-type LDH, a recognized human-safe pathogen adsorbent. Its sheet-like morphology enables easy retrieval of inherently powdered LDH from post-disinfected water. Coating with Mg–Al LDH foils was accomplished by immersing aluminum foils in alkaline magnesium solutions, resulting in the on-surface formation of LDH. Using 12 distinct alkaline magnesium solutions, 12 types of LDH foils were prepared. Most LDH foils demonstrated >99% removal of Escherichia coli (DH5α strain) within 3–24 h when 100 mL of water was inoculated with DH5α at approximately 103 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL agitated with a 25-cm2 LDH foil piece. The LDH foil with the highest efficacy had a maximum adsorption capacity of approximately 1.3 × 106 CFU per 1-cm2 LDH foil. Furthermore, the LDH foil was regenerated by submersing it in the alkaline solution during its preparation, enabling multiple reuses. Owing to its straightforward production and application, the LDH foil holds substantial promise as a convenient-to-use adsorbent for batch water disinfection, such as jug water, in rural households.

An effective hybrid evolutionary algorithm for the set orienteering problem

The Set Orienteering Problem (SOP) is a variant of the popular Orienteering Problem (OP) arising from a number of real-life applications. The aim is to find a tour across a subset of customers, while maximizing the collected profit within a given travel time limit. In SOP, vertices (customers) are partitioned into clusters, where a profit is associated to each cluster. The profit of a cluster is collected only if at least one vertex belonging to the cluster is contained in the tour. For this NP-hard problem, we present a highly effective hybrid evolutionary algorithm that integrates a cluster-based crossover operator, a randomized mutation operator to generate multiple distinct promising offspring solutions, and a two-phase local refinement procedure that explores both feasible and infeasible solutions in search of high-quality local optima. Extensive experiments on 192 large benchmark instances show that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms all the existing approaches from the SOP literature. In particular, it reports improved best-known solutions (new lower bounds) for 54 instances, while matching the existing best-known result for 133 instances. We further investigate the contribution of the key algorithmic elements to the success of the proposed approach.

A roadmap out of medical deserts into supportive health workforce initiatives and policies, results from the ROUTE-HWF study

Abstract Background Medical deserts are coined as a specific term for areas dealing with low levels of health workers and health services. Health-underserved areas are a Europe wide problem, but still there is a lack of understanding on the different types and causes of medical ‘desertification’. In absence of a clear definition and categorization, countries acknowledge the severity of medical desert problems and take action. But they do so without taking opportunities to learn from each other, in terms of finding the rationale underlying the appropriate choice of policies and measures. Aims and Objectives The aim of the ROUTE-HWF project that will be presented is to develop an elaborated taxonomy on medical deserts that supports country comparison, and improves the matching of different policy initiatives with different types of medical deserts. This includes guidelines on how to monitor and measure medical deserts, and solutions like task shifting and retention of health workers. Methods The ROUTE-HWF project is based on a systematic literature review, a survey among European countries, and workshops with case studies among a selected number of countries. During each stage of the project the taxonomy and a roadmap ‘out of medical deserts’ is further developed. Results We present the ROUTE-HWF taxonomy and roadmap with guidelines for monitoring and measuring medical deserts. Three main distinctive types of medical deserts are defined: medical deserts mainly caused by problems with the accessibility of health workers and facilities, medical deserts mainly caused by problems with population needs in area, and medical deserts with (cumulation) of problems both at the demand and supply side of the local health system. We show that this categorization is useful to tailor health policy measures to the distinctive causes and solutions for medical deserts, enabling mutual or cluster country learning within Europe.

Uncovering diverse soliton solutions in the modified Schrödinger’s equation via innovative approaches

The topic of soliton propagation in optical fibers is explored in our research paper, with a focus on the utilization of the modified nonlinear Schrödinger’s equation with perturbation terms. Two effective techniques have been employed in this model, resulting in the generation of wave structures in a closed-form manner and the production of a wide range of distinct solutions. These solutions hold potential applications in various fields such as optical fibers, plasma fluids, and biomolecular dynamics. The proposed approaches are characterized by their simplicity, robustness, and ability to generate new solutions for nonlinear partial differential equations in the field of mathematical physics. Captivating figures depicting the propagation of traveling wave solutions for carefully chosen parameter values are included in the paper. Overall, valuable insights into the behavior of soliton propagation in optical fibers are provided by this research, and new avenues for future research in this field are offered.

Exploring microstructure development of C-S-H gel in cement blends with starch-based polysaccharide additives

Calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) governs the binding of cement-based materials, influencing various properties through its microstructure. However, understanding C-S-H's microstructure development and morphological evolution mechanisms remains incomplete. This study systematically investigated the microstructure development of both outer and inner C-S-H gel in real cement pastes using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy. For the first time, we reported the evolution of outer C-S-H from one-dimensional needle-like morphology to three-dimensional honeycomb-like morphology after reaching the maximum heat flow, involving interconnection between adjacent C-S-H needles and micro-assembly of bonded structure. Inner C-S-H, formed in confined spaces, mirrors outer C-S-H morphology evolution patterns, but with more distinctive deformation and compaction at later stages. A starch-based polysaccharide additive, temperature rise inhibitor (TRI), was then used to regulate cement hydration and C-S-H precipitation. With distinctive exothermic processes and pore solution environments, we validated the C-S-H morphology-calcium concentration correlation. However, our findings challenge calcium concentration as the sole determinant of C-S-H morphology change; it appears rather as a consequence of increasing degree of cement hydration.

Dissecting the Permeability of the Escherichia coli Cell Envelope to a Small Molecule Using Tailored Intensiometric Fluorescent Protein Sensors.

Membranes provide a highly selective barrier that defines the boundaries of any cell while providing an interface for communication and nutrient uptake. However, despite their central physiological role, our capacity to study or even engineer the permeation of distinct solutes across biological membranes remains rudimentary. This especially applies to Gram-negative bacteria, where the outer and inner membrane impose two permeation barriers. Addressing this analytical challenge, we exemplify how the permeability of the Escherichia coli cell envelope can be dissected using a small-molecule-responsive fluorescent protein sensor. The approach is exemplified for the biotechnologically relevant macrolide rapamycin, for which we first construct an intensiometric rapamycin detector (iRapTor) while comprehensively probing key design principles in the iRapTor scaffold. Specifically, this includes the scope of minimal copolymeric linkers as a function of topology and the concomitant need for gate post residues. In a subsequent step, we apply iRapTors to assess the permeability of the E. coli cell envelope to rapamycin. Despite its lipophilic character, rapamycin does not readily diffuse across the E. coli envelope but can be enhanced by recombinantly expressing a nanopore in the outer membrane. Our study thus provides a blueprint for studying and actuating the permeation of small molecules across the prokaryotic cell envelope.

When the well runs dry: modelling environmental quenching of high-mass satellites in massive clusters at z ≳ 1

ABSTRACT We explore models of massive (>1010 M⊙) satellite quenching in massive clusters at z ≳ 1 using an MCMC framework, focusing on two primary parameters: Rquench (the host-centric radius at which quenching begins) and τquench (the time-scale upon which a satellite quenches after crossing Rquench). Our MCMC analysis shows two local maxima in the 1D posterior probability distribution of Rquench at approximately 0.25 and 1.0 R200. Analysing four distinct solutions in the τquench–Rquench parameter space, nearly all of which yield quiescent fractions consistent with observational data from the GOGREEN survey, we investigate whether these solutions represent distinct quenching pathways and find that they can be separated between ‘starvation’ and ‘core quenching’ scenarios. The starvation pathway is characterized by quenching time-scales that are roughly consistent with the total cold gas (H2 + H i) depletion time-scale at intermediate z, while core quenching is characterized by satellites with relatively high line-of-sight velocities that quench on short time-scales (∼0.25 Gyr) after reaching the inner region of the cluster (<0.30 R200). Lastly, we break the degeneracy between these solutions by comparing the observed properties of transition galaxies from the GOGREEN survey. We conclude that only the ‘starvation’ pathway is consistent with the projected phase-space distribution and relative abundance of transition galaxies at z ∼ 1. However, we acknowledge that ram pressure might contribute as a secondary quenching mechanism.

Synthesis of Li-Mg-Al-Ti based lightweight high entropy alloys by mechanical alloying and investigation of conditions for solid solution formation

Li-Mg-Al-Ti-M based lightweight high entropy alloys (lightweight HEAs) were synthesized through mechanical alloying and the possibility of solid solution formation was systematically investigated. The quaternary Li-Mg-Al-Ti system exhibited a HCP structure. Solid solutions were formed in the alloys with V or Nb among the 15 types of LiMgAlTiM alloys. Furthermore, distinct BCC single phase solid solution were successfully synthesized by adjusting the composition of the Li-Mg-Al-Ti-V system. The typical indicators of solid solution formation which have been used in HEAs were applied to this study. As a result, it was found that the effective indicators for mechanical alloying differ from those used in conventional melting methods, meaning their dependency on the alloy fabrication process.

EXPLORING ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES OF PRINCIPALS IN HIGHER EDUCATION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE COLLEGES IN NAGALAND

The educational framework of higher education in Nagaland, India, encompasses both Government and Private colleges of higher learning, with each institution serving as a crucial component of the states educational infrastructure. This abstract presents a comprehensive examination of a comparative study that seeks to investigate the administrative issues encountered by Principals in Government and Private colleges in Nagaland. The research study utilizes a descriptive cum normative survey approach, incorporating surveysas data collection methods to gather information from Principals. This study aims to gain insights into the distinct challenges and possible solutions within the area of higher educationalmanagament in Nagaland by analysing and contrasting the administrative issues faced in both types of college management. The anticipated outcomes of this study are expected to provide valuable insights for policymakers, Principals, and stakeholders, thereby improving the overall quality of higher education within the state.

Flow dynamics in sinusoidal channels at moderate Reynolds numbers

Pressure-gradient-driven flows through sinusoidal channels have been studied. The analysis was carried out up to the formation of secondary nonlinear states and spanned a range of low and moderate Reynolds numbers. Direct numerical simulations were used to identify and determine the properties of steady as well as non-stationary, two-dimensional (2-D) and three-dimensional secondary flows. Our results indicate the existence of several distinct solution types. Two-dimensional, stationary flows with periodicity determined by the corrugation represent the first type. The second type is associated with the appearance of 2-D oscillatory flows arising from the onset of unstable travelling waves. Such oscillatory solutions are generally out of phase with the wall corrugation but could be in phase in special cases determined by the ratio of the critical disturbance wavelength and the channel corrugation wavelength. Consequently, several distinct types of time-dependent solutions are possible. The third type of solution results from the centrifugal effect caused by wall curvature and leads to three-dimensionalization of the flow through the onset of stationary streamwise vortices. Finally, various states resulting from the interaction of different solution types are possible. We examine those states and present a bifurcation diagram illustrating the formation of some of them. The results presented in this paper might help with the development of small-scale flow measurement and detection devices operating at low and moderate Reynolds numbers, as well as in the use of wall topographies for the intensification of mixing in flows with moderate, subturbulent Reynolds numbers.

Partition of the space of planar quintic Pythagorean-hodograph curves

The quintics are the lowest–order planar Pythagorean–hodograph (PH) curves suitable for free–form design, since they can exhibit inflections. A quintic PH curve r(t) may be constructed from a complex quadratic pre–image polynomial w(t) by integration of r′(t)=w2(t), and it thus incorporates (modulo translations) six real parameters — the real and imaginary parts of the coefficients of w(t). Within this 6–dimensional space of planar PH quintics, a 5–dimensional hypersurface separates the inflectional and non–inflectional curves. Points of the hypersurface identify exceptional curves that possess a tangent–continuous point of infinite curvature, corresponding to the fact that the parabolic locus specified by the quadratic pre–image polynomial w(t) passes through the origin of the complex plane. Correspondingly, extreme curvatures and tight loops on r(t) are incurred by a close proximity of w(t) to the origin of the complex plane. These observations provide useful insight into the disparate shapes of the four distinct PH quintic solutions to the first–order Hermite interpolation problem.

Influence of Deicer on Water Stability of Asphalt Mixture under Freeze–Thaw Cycle

In seasonal frozen soil areas, the repeated freeze–thaw cycle of internal moisture in asphalt mixture in winter and spring will accelerate the peeling of asphalt film and aggravate the water damage of asphalt pavement. It is of great significance to carry out the attenuation law of mechanical properties of asphalt mixture under freeze–thaw cycles to prevent and reduce the economic losses caused by water damage to asphalt pavement. This study will investigate the impact of deicer application on the water stability of asphalt mixtures within the climatic conditions prevalent in Northwest China. Specifically, freeze–thaw cycle tests were administered to two types of dense-graded asphalt mixtures under three distinct deicer solutions and three disparate low-temperature environments. The Marshall water immersion test and freeze–thaw splitting test were employed to evaluate the water stability of asphalt mixtures subject to multiple factors, and the relative importance of each factor was statistically analyzed using the acquired data. Results demonstrated that AC-13 and AC-16 asphalt mixtures (AC is asphalt-concrete, which is asphalt concrete, and 13 or 16 represents the maximum particle size of aggregate (13 mm or 16 mm)), saturated in 15% CH4N2O, 20% NaCl, and 20% CH2CH3OH solutions, underwent a varying number of freezing–thawing cycles (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30) at temperatures of −5 °C, −15 °C, and −25 °C, respectively, displayed a discernible decline in their residual stability MS0 and freeze–thaw splitting tensile strength ratio TSR. This decline was particularly marked when temperatures dropped below the solution’s freezing point. Disregarding the fixed factors of weather variation (different low-temperature environments) and road service duration (number of freezing–thawing cycles), the aggregate grading imposed a more pronounced influence on asphalt mixture water stability than the presence of deicers.