Showing 1–48 of 48 results for author: Xie, Q

A Unified Analytical Framework for LYSO-SiPM Scintillation Pulse Dynamics

Authors: Ao Qiu, Qingguo Xie

Abstract: Existing scintillation-detector models typically treat scintillation kinetics, optical transport, silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) response, and timing statistics separately, limiting end-to-end prediction of waveform formation and detector performance. We present a unified analytical framework for lutetium-yttrium oxyorthosilicate (LYSO)-SiPM scintillation detectors that links these processes withi… ▽ More Existing scintillation-detector models typically treat scintillation kinetics, optical transport, silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) response, and timing statistics separately, limiting end-to-end prediction of waveform formation and detector performance. We present a unified analytical framework for lutetium-yttrium oxyorthosilicate (LYSO)-SiPM scintillation detectors that links these processes within a single forward model. The framework incorporates finite thermalization, depth-dependent optical transit-time spread, and microcell occupancy dynamics to provide a physics-based description of macroscopic pulse formation. It yields closed-form exponentially modified Gaussian pulses in the linear regime, state-dependent integral solutions in saturation, and recovers the conventional bi-exponential pulse model---ubiquitously used yet hitherto only empirically justified in scintillation pulse fitting and sparse-sampling reconstruction---as a controlled reduction of the full optoelectronic cascade. Experimental validation on 10,000 directly digitized Na-22 pulses shows that the dynamic saturation model captures amplitude-dependent waveform distortion and is favored by the Akaike information criterion (AIC) over a matched bi-exponential baseline in 100/100 high-amplitude pulses and 98/100 medium-amplitude pulses. By coupling the dynamic triggering rate to compound Poisson statistics, the framework also predicts current-variance envelopes and Fisher-information-based timing limits, including an intrinsic coincidence timing resolution lower bound of about 100 ps full width at half maximum (FWHM) for a reference 511-keV LYSO-SiPM configuration. These results deepen the physical understanding of scintillation-detector waveform formation and timing limits by clarifying how scintillation kinetics, optical transport, and SiPM microcell dynamics jointly shape the observed response. △ Less

Submitted 6 August, 2026; originally announced August 2026.

Prior-Based Multi-Voltage Threshold Sampling as a Structured Inverse Problem

Authors: Ao Qiu, Qingguo Xie

Abstract: Prior-based Multi-Voltage Threshold (MVT) sampling reconstructs pulse parameters from sparse threshold-crossing times rather than full waveforms, making parameter recovery inherently a model-dependent inverse problem. However, prior-based MVT has lacked a formal mathematical statement, leaving identifiability, stochastic error propagation, and threshold design without a unified theoretical foundat… ▽ More Prior-based Multi-Voltage Threshold (MVT) sampling reconstructs pulse parameters from sparse threshold-crossing times rather than full waveforms, making parameter recovery inherently a model-dependent inverse problem. However, prior-based MVT has lacked a formal mathematical statement, leaving identifiability, stochastic error propagation, and threshold design without a unified theoretical foundation. We formalize prior-based MVT for strictly unimodal pulse families as a structured inverse problem. On that foundation, we develop the first unified theory of prior-based MVT, comprising deterministic identifiability conditions, a stochastic timing-error model with leading-order mismatch bias, and a nuisance-profiled threshold-design theory centered on an effective-information equation for robust single-event and partial-trigger multi-event operation. We instantiate the framework for the bi-exponential pulse model, derive executable design recipes, and validate the resulting predictions on a 10,000-pulse $^{22}$Na/LYSO/SiPM dataset. The experiments confirm that the framework yields useful threshold designs in the photopeak regime while also revealing the regime boundary at which partial triggering and model mismatch limit the predictive power of Fisher-guided optimization. These results provide the first unified mathematical foundation for prior-based MVT and recast it from an empirical threshold heuristic as a principled inferential framework. △ Less

Submitted 6 August, 2026; v1 submitted 5 August, 2026; originally announced August 2026.

Coalescence-induced alignment of anisotropic particles in drying sessile droplets

Authors: Johannes Schöttner, Qingguang Xie, Jens Harting

Abstract: Alignment of anisotropic particles strongly governs the functional properties of printed materials, yet most studies have focused on particle alignment in single evaporating droplets. In droplet- based printing, however, neighboring droplets can coalesce, generating rapid capillary flows that redistribute material and markedly affect the final morphology. Here, we use mesoscale simulations to inve… ▽ More Alignment of anisotropic particles strongly governs the functional properties of printed materials, yet most studies have focused on particle alignment in single evaporating droplets. In droplet- based printing, however, neighboring droplets can coalesce, generating rapid capillary flows that redistribute material and markedly affect the final morphology. Here, we use mesoscale simulations to investigate how droplet coalescence and subsequent evaporation jointly determine alignment and redistribution in sessile droplets with different contact angles and volumes. During the early stages of coalescence, the mean nematic order along the coalescence direction increases for all combinations of contact-angle and volume asymmetries of the droplets. At later times, the mean nematic order either continues to increase or decreases, depending on the droplet geometry. We derive a geometric scaling based on curvature and volume asymmetry and show that the simulation results collapse onto a master curve, identifying an effective geometric asymmetry parameter that governs the mean nematic order at the end of coalescence. During evaporation, the contact angle strongly influences how the coalescence-induced orientational structure is transferred to the final deposit. For small contact angles, the contact line remains pinned for a longer duration, better preserving alignment. In contrast, larger contact angles promote contact-line motion, which weakens alignment, as reflected by a reduced mean nematic order, while simultaneously generating stronger concentration gradients in the final deposit. △ Less

Submitted 31 July, 2026; originally announced July 2026.

Comments: 15 pages,6 figures

Evaporation-Driven Nanowire Self-Assembly in an Elongated Droplet

Authors: Johannes Schöttner, Qingguang Xie, Jens Harting

Abstract: Drying of nanowire-laden elongated droplets is a ubiquitous process in printed electronics fabrication, where the resulting deposition pattern critically determines device performance by controlling nanowire alignment, connectivity, and percolating charge-transport pathways. However, the physical understanding of evaporation-driven deposition is still largely derived from studies of spherical drop… ▽ More Drying of nanowire-laden elongated droplets is a ubiquitous process in printed electronics fabrication, where the resulting deposition pattern critically determines device performance by controlling nanowire alignment, connectivity, and percolating charge-transport pathways. However, the physical understanding of evaporation-driven deposition is still largely derived from studies of spherical droplets on homogeneous substrates. This gap limits the ability to predict and control deposit morphology in realistic printing scenarios. Here, we use mesoscale lattice Boltzmann simulations to investigate the drying of nanowire-laden elongated droplets on wettability-patterned substrates, focusing on the effects of droplet geometry, nanowire interactions, and nanowire length. The elongated droplet geometry is found to intrinsically induce distinct axial and transverse inhomogeneities in the final deposit. Increasing the effective attraction between nanowires, which mimics changes in surface chemistry or solvent conditions, can improve electrical connectivity but also promotes clustering and local ordering, reducing structural uniformity. In contrast, increasing nanowire length yields a dual benefit by improving long-range connectivity while simultaneously enhancing deposit homogeneity. Our findings provide design guidance for balancing electrical transport and structural uniformity in evaporation-driven printed electronics. △ Less

Submitted 7 July, 2026; originally announced July 2026.

Comments: 13 pages, 7 figures

Free-Energy Analysis of Bubble Nucleation on Electrocatalytic Surfaces

Authors: Qingguang Xie, Paolo Malgaretti, Othmane Aouane, Simon Thiele, Jens Harting

Abstract: Bubble nucleation at catalyst surfaces plays a critical role in the operation of electrolyzers. However, achieving controlled bubble nucleation remains challenging due to limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Here, we present a free-energy model that quantitatively predicts both the activation energy and critical nucleus size of bubbles at given supersaturation, temperature, pressure… ▽ More Bubble nucleation at catalyst surfaces plays a critical role in the operation of electrolyzers. However, achieving controlled bubble nucleation remains challenging due to limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Here, we present a free-energy model that quantitatively predicts both the activation energy and critical nucleus size of bubbles at given supersaturation, temperature, pressure, and surface wettability. We find that the activation energy $ΔG_{max}$ decreases with increasing supersaturation $ζ$, following a power-law scaling of $ΔG_{max} \sim ζ^{-2}$, while the critical nucleus radius $R_c$ scales as $R_c\sim ζ^{-1}$. Our theoretical predictions for the critical nucleus radius of hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen bubbles are in quantitative agreement with experimental measurements. Finally, we present a simple model that couples gas diffusion and electrochemical reaction kinetics to determine the maximum gas supersaturation at a given current density. Our results advance the fundamental understanding of bubble nucleation at catalyst surfaces and provide practical guidelines for catalyst layer design to improve the performance of electrolyzers. △ Less

Submitted 10 April, 2026; v1 submitted 18 March, 2026; originally announced March 2026.

Comments: 9 pages, 4 figures

Deep Learning-Enabled Invisible Electromagnetic Scattering Amplifier

Authors: Qike Xie, Qin Liao, Xiaofan Ji, Yichao Liu, Fei Sun

Abstract: With the rapid development of micro-electro-mechanical systems, electrically small micro-targets, such as subwavelength micro unmanned aerial vehicles and bionic mosquito robots, exhibit ultra-low scattering cross section, which brings severe challenges to their effective detection. To address this problem, an Invisible Electromagnetic Scattering Amplifier (IESA) is designed by combining finite-el… ▽ More With the rapid development of micro-electro-mechanical systems, electrically small micro-targets, such as subwavelength micro unmanned aerial vehicles and bionic mosquito robots, exhibit ultra-low scattering cross section, which brings severe challenges to their effective detection. To address this problem, an Invisible Electromagnetic Scattering Amplifier (IESA) is designed by combining finite-element electromagnetic simulation with a forward lossless tandem neural network. The IESA realizes the dual-functional integration of intrinsic electromagnetic invisibility (near-zero scattering) for itself and significant scattering amplification for subwavelength targets entering its air sensing region. Electromagnetic simulations verify that the designed IESA can achieve a stable scattering amplification effect on subwavelength targets with a characteristic size of approximately 0.1λ0, regardless of their spatial positions or geometric shapes, with a maximum scattering cross section amplification factor of 8.58. The IESA breaks the technical bottleneck of the separate design of electromagnetic invisibility and scattering amplification functions. It shows potential for applications in the fields of radar detection, anti-terrorism security, micro-target monitoring, and adaptive electromagnetic sensing. △ Less

Submitted 25 February, 2026; originally announced February 2026.

Comments: 10 pages, 5 figures

Low-Energy, Octave-Spanning Supercontinuum Generation in Ta_2O_5 Waveguides: Towards Optical Coherence Metrology

Authors: Yanyan Zhang, Qin Xie, Xiaoqing Chen, Xuetao Gan

Abstract: Supercontinuum generation (SCG) on integrated photonic platforms is a pivotal technology for developing next-generation chip-scale systems for precision spectroscopy and metrology. While significant progress has been made with silicon (Si) and silicon nitride ($Si_3N_4$) platforms, they are often constrained by two-photon absorption (TPA) or moderate nonlinear coefficients, necessitating a trade-o… ▽ More Supercontinuum generation (SCG) on integrated photonic platforms is a pivotal technology for developing next-generation chip-scale systems for precision spectroscopy and metrology. While significant progress has been made with silicon (Si) and silicon nitride ($Si_3N_4$) platforms, they are often constrained by two-photon absorption (TPA) or moderate nonlinear coefficients, necessitating a trade-off between energy efficiency and bandwidth. Tantalum pentoxide ($Ta_2O_5$), possessing both high nonlinearity and a wide bandgap, emerges as a promising candidate; however, current implementations remain challenged by high pump energy consumption. Here, we report a low-loss $Ta_2O_5$ integrated waveguide fabricated via the Damascene process. It enables the generation of a two-octave-spanning spectrum with a low pulse energy of only 92.9 pJ (60 fs, 1550 nm). Notably, the corresponding peak power is a mere 1.36 kW, which is nearly an order of magnitude lower than that of state-of-the-art comparable broadband sources. Furthermore, at the maximum pump energy, our spectrum exhibits an ultrabroad coverage from 450 nm to 3400 nm, spanning nearly three octaves. Supported by numerical simulations, we analyze the dynamics of soliton fission. Furthermore, a Michelson interferometry system developed using this source exhibits superior performance, achieving not only micrometer-scale axial resolution but also a 6 dB sensitivity roll-off length of 3.1 mm. This exceptional roll-off performance, combined with a displacement measurement sensitivity of 346 nm, underscores the immense potential of the $Ta_2O_5$ platform for applications in biomedical imaging and precision metrology. △ Less

Submitted 12 February, 2026; originally announced February 2026.

Comments: 46 pages, 9 figures

Self-assembled filament layers in drying sessile droplets: from morphology to electrical conductivity

Authors: Johannes Schöttner, Qingguang Xie, Gaurav Nath, Jens Harting

Abstract: Controlling the deposition of filaments, such as nanowires and nanotubes, from evaporating droplets is critical for the performance of emerging technologies like flexible sensors and printed electronics. The final deposit morphology strongly governs functional properties, such as electrical conductivity, yet remains challenging to control. In this work, we numerically investigate how filament leng… ▽ More Controlling the deposition of filaments, such as nanowires and nanotubes, from evaporating droplets is critical for the performance of emerging technologies like flexible sensors and printed electronics. The final deposit morphology strongly governs functional properties, such as electrical conductivity, yet remains challenging to control. In this work, we numerically investigate how filament length, stiffness, and concentration affect deposition patterns during the drying process. We compare reaction-limited and diffusion-limited evaporation regimes, demonstrating that their distinct velocity fields and flow magnitudes fundamentally alter filament arrangement. While diffusion-limited evaporation drives the ``coffee-ring effect", compromising network uniformity, reaction-limited evaporation suppresses edge accumulation, promoting centered conductive deposits. We map out the spatial variation of filament alignment - tangential at the contact line, radial in the intermediate region, and random near the center. Longer filaments tend to favour more tangential alignment overall and suppress edge accumulation. We find that by tuning the evaporation regime, filament deposition can lead to significantly lower percolation thresholds and significantly higher conductivity exponents. These results quantify the link between evaporation kinetics and microstructure, providing guidelines for optimizing conductive network formation in printed electronics. △ Less

Submitted 9 February, 2026; v1 submitted 15 December, 2025; originally announced December 2025.

Comments: 16 pages, 8 figures

Simulations of inertial liquid-lens coalescence with the pseudopotential lattice Boltzmann method

Authors: Qingguang Xie, Jens Harting

Abstract: The coalescence of liquid lenses is relevant in various applications, including inkjet printing and fog harvesting. However, the dynamics of liquid-lens coalescence have been relatively underexplored, particularly in the case of liquid lenses with larger contact angles. We numerically investigate the coalescence of low-viscosity liquid lenses by means of the pseudopotential multi-component lattice… ▽ More The coalescence of liquid lenses is relevant in various applications, including inkjet printing and fog harvesting. However, the dynamics of liquid-lens coalescence have been relatively underexplored, particularly in the case of liquid lenses with larger contact angles. We numerically investigate the coalescence of low-viscosity liquid lenses by means of the pseudopotential multi-component lattice Boltzmann method over a wide range of contact angles. In two-dimensional simulations, our numerical results on the growth of the bridge height are in quantitative agreement with experimental measurements for small contact angles. In addition, by comparing our simulation results with a theoretical approach based on the thin-sheet equations for liquid lenses, we find that the thin-sheet equations accurately capture the bridge-growth dynamics up to contact angles of approximately $θ< 40^{\circ}$. For the three-dimensional case, the growth of the bridge radius is independent of the equilibrium contact angle of the liquid lenses at the initial stage of growth. The dependency between the growth of the bridge height and the bridge radius exhibits a non-linear to linear transition. △ Less

Submitted 29 December, 2025; v1 submitted 27 November, 2025; originally announced November 2025.

Comments: 8 pages, 8 figures

Journal ref: Capillarity 18, 41, 2026

Analytic Model of Trans-axial Sensitivity in Cylindrical PET Systems Based on Solid Angle

Authors: Boheng Lin, Zizhuo Xie, Bo Zhang, Lin Wan, Ao Qiu, Qingguo Xie

Abstract: In positron emission tomography (PET), a clear theoretical model describing how system sensitivity varies as a source is moved trans-axially within the field of view (FOV) is lacking. The current understanding and practical intuition often suggest that sensitivity is maximum at the center of the FOV, an assumption reflected in standardized protocols. In this work, we derive an analytic model for t… ▽ More In positron emission tomography (PET), a clear theoretical model describing how system sensitivity varies as a source is moved trans-axially within the field of view (FOV) is lacking. The current understanding and practical intuition often suggest that sensitivity is maximum at the center of the FOV, an assumption reflected in standardized protocols. In this work, we derive an analytic model for the trans-axial-plane sensitivity distribution in a cylindrical PET scanner based on solid angle. The model, formulated as a function of trans-axial offset from the center, is validated through both Monte Carlo simulations and physical experiments on a representative system. We find that the derived theoretical distribution is essentially consistent with simulation and experimental results, revealing a non-intuitive feature: sensitivity increases with trans-axial offset, peaks at the edge of the FOV, and drops off sharply beyond it. This study provides the first closed-form model of trans-axial geometric sensitivity in cylindrical PET scanners, offering a vital benchmark for isolating detector technology improvements and revealing a non-intuitive, offset-dependent sensitivity profile that enables new protocol optimization strategies. △ Less

Submitted 22 January, 2026; v1 submitted 17 July, 2025; originally announced July 2025.

Comments: 17 pages, 7 figures

Parasitic hydrogen bubble evolution in vanadium redox flow batteries: A lattice Boltzmann study

Authors: K. Duan, T. H. Vu, T. Kadyk, Q. Xie, J. Harting, M. Eikerling

Abstract: Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are a promising technology to capture and store energy from renewable sources, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation. However, during the charging process, the parasitic hydrogen evolution reaction at the negative electrode affects the performance and durability of VFRBs. The evolution of hydrogen bubbles causes the loss of effective reac… ▽ More Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are a promising technology to capture and store energy from renewable sources, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation. However, during the charging process, the parasitic hydrogen evolution reaction at the negative electrode affects the performance and durability of VFRBs. The evolution of hydrogen bubbles causes the loss of effective reaction area and blocks the transport of reactants. We employ the lattice Boltzmann method to investigate the two-phase flow transport in the negative electrode of VRFBs. Systematic parametric analyses reveal that increased gas production leads to uneven gas removal from the electrode, while an optimal flow rate can effectively remove bubbles and reduce external pumping energy. Additionally, increasing the compression ratio hinders gas removal but enhances electrode electrical conductivity. Overall, the present study provides valuable mechanistic insights into bubble generation at the negative electrode of VRFBs and offers a theoretical reference for designing and optimizing VRFBs. △ Less

Submitted 24 November, 2025; v1 submitted 10 April, 2025; originally announced April 2025.

Comments: 27 pages, 11 figures, 1 table

MSC Class: 76M28 ACM Class: I.6.8; I.6.3

Journal ref: Duan, K., Vu, T. H., Kadyk, T., Xie, Q., Harting, J., & Eikerling, M. (2026). Energy Conversion and Management, 348, 120754

Effect of particle and substrate wettability on evaporation-driven assembly of colloidal monolayers

Authors: Qingguang Xie, Tian Du, Christoph J. Brabec, Jens Harting

Abstract: Assembled monolayers of colloidal particles are crucial for various applications, including opto-electronics, surface engineering, as well as light harvesting, and catalysis. A common approach for self-assembly is the drying of a colloidal suspension film on a solid substrate using technologies such as printing and coating. However, this approach often presents challenges such as low surface cover… ▽ More Assembled monolayers of colloidal particles are crucial for various applications, including opto-electronics, surface engineering, as well as light harvesting, and catalysis. A common approach for self-assembly is the drying of a colloidal suspension film on a solid substrate using technologies such as printing and coating. However, this approach often presents challenges such as low surface coverage, stacking faults, and the formation of multiple layers. We numerically investigate the influence of substrate and particle wettability on the deposited pattern. Higher substrate wettability results in a monolayer with a hexagonal arrangement of deposited particles on the substrate. Conversely, lower substrate wettability leads to droplet formation after the film ruptures, leading to the formation of particle clusters. Furthermore, we reveal that higher particle wettability can mitigate the impact of the substrate wettability and facilitate the formation of highly ordered monolayers. We propose theoretical models predicting the surface coverage fraction dependent on particle volume fraction, initial film thickness, particle radius, as well as substrate and particle wettability, and validate these models with simulations. Our findings provide valuable insights for optimizing the deposition process in the creation of assembled monolayers of colloidal particles. △ Less

Submitted 3 June, 2025; v1 submitted 9 January, 2025; originally announced January 2025.

Comments: 11 pages, 6 figures

Journal ref: Langmuir, 2025

Landau-Levich Scaling for Optimization of Quantum Dot Layer Morphology and Thickness for Enhanced Quantum-Dot Light-Emitting Diode Performance

Authors: Yiman Xu, Grant J. Dixon, Qing Xie, James F. Gilchrist, Brandi M. Cossairt, David S. Ginger, Elsa Reichmanis

Abstract: Quantum dot (QD) light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) are promising candidates for next-generation displays because of their high efficiency, brightness, broad color gamut, and solution-processability. Large-scale solution-processing of electroluminescent QLEDs poses significant challenges, particularly concerning the precise control of the active layer's thickness and uniformity. These obstacles directl… ▽ More Quantum dot (QD) light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) are promising candidates for next-generation displays because of their high efficiency, brightness, broad color gamut, and solution-processability. Large-scale solution-processing of electroluminescent QLEDs poses significant challenges, particularly concerning the precise control of the active layer's thickness and uniformity. These obstacles directly impact charge transport, leading to current leakage and reduced overall efficiency. Blade-coating is a prevalent and scalable solution processing technique known for its speed and minimal waste. Additionally, it allows for continuous "roll-to-roll" processing, making it highly adaptable in various applications. In this study, we demonstrate the precise control of blade speed in the Landau-Levich regime to create a uniform QD emission layer, using a commercial CdSe/ZnS QD as a representative example. QDs assemble into different morphologies on glass and the underlying layers of the QLED device due to variations in interaction energy. The QD film thickness can be modified from monolayer to multilayer by adjusting blade speed, which can be predicted by fitting the Landau-Levich-Derjaguin theory. The optimal speed at 7 mm/s results in a QD film with a surface coverage of around 163% and low roughness (1.57 nm mean square height). The QLED external quantum efficiency (EQE) of approximately 1.5% was achieved using commercially available CdSe/ZnS QDs with low photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY), and an EQE of around 7% has been obtained using lab-made InP/ZnSe/ZnS QDs having a solution PLQY of 74%. All-blade-coated CdSe-QLEDs are further demonstrated by adopting the optimized speed for the QD layer. This method demonstrates significant potential for developing low-cost, reproducible, and scalable QLED technologies with uniform emission characteristics and low-waste production. △ Less

Submitted 3 January, 2025; originally announced January 2025.

Comments: 36 pages, 17 figures

Development and experimental validation of an in-house treatment planning system with greedy energy layer optimization for fast IMPT

Authors: Aoxiang Wang, Ya-Nan Zhu, Jufri Setianegara, Yuting Lin, Peng Xiao, Qingguo Xie, Hao Gao

Abstract: Background: Intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) using pencil beam technique scans tumor in a layer by layer, then spot by spot manner. It can provide highly conformal dose to tumor targets and spare nearby organs-at-risk (OAR). Fast delivery of IMPT can improve patient comfort and reduce motion-induced uncertainties. Since energy layer switching time dominants the plan delivery time, reducin… ▽ More Background: Intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) using pencil beam technique scans tumor in a layer by layer, then spot by spot manner. It can provide highly conformal dose to tumor targets and spare nearby organs-at-risk (OAR). Fast delivery of IMPT can improve patient comfort and reduce motion-induced uncertainties. Since energy layer switching time dominants the plan delivery time, reducing the number of energy layers is important for improving delivery efficiency. Although various energy layer optimization (ELO) methods exist, they are rarely experimentally validated or clinically implemented, since it is technically challenging to integrate these methods into commercially available treatment planning system (TPS) that is not open-source. Methods: The dose calculation accuracy of IH-TPS is verified against the measured beam data and the RayStation TPS. For treatment planning, a novel ELO method via greed selection algorithm is proposed to reduce energy layer switching time and total plan delivery time. To validate the planning accuracy of IH-TPS, the 3D gamma index is calculated between IH-TPS plans and RayStation plans for various scenarios. Patient-specific quality-assurance (QA) verifications are conducted to experimentally verify the delivered dose from the IH-TPS plans for several clinical cases. Results: Dose distributions in IH-TPS matched with those from RayStation TPS, with 3D gamma index results exceeding 95% (2mm, 2%). The ELO method significantly reduced the delivery time while maintaining plan quality. For instance, in a brain case, the number of energy layers was reduced from 78 to 40, leading to a 62% reduction in total delivery time. Patient-specific QA validation with the IBA Proteus ONE proton machine confirmed a >95% pass rate for all cases. △ Less

Submitted 27 November, 2024; originally announced November 2024.

Soft-Matter-Based Topological Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers

Authors: Yu Wang, Shiqi Xia, Jingbin Shao, Qun Xie, Donghao Yang, Xinzheng Zhang, Irena Drevensek-Olenik, Qiang Wu, Zhigang Chen, Jingjun Xu

Abstract: Polarized topological vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), as stable and efficient on-chip light sources, play an important role in the next generation of optical storage and optical communications. However, most current topological lasers demand complex design and expensive fabrication processes, and their semiconductor-based structures pose challenges for flexible device application… ▽ More Polarized topological vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), as stable and efficient on-chip light sources, play an important role in the next generation of optical storage and optical communications. However, most current topological lasers demand complex design and expensive fabrication processes, and their semiconductor-based structures pose challenges for flexible device applications. By use of an analogy with two-dimensional Semenov insulators in synthetic parametric space, we design and realize a one-dimensional optical superlattice (stacked polymerized cholesteric liquid crystal films and Mylar films), thereby we demonstrate a flexible, low threshold, circularly polarized topological VCSEL with high slope efficiency. We show that such a laser maintains a good single-mode property under low pump power and inherits the transverse spatial profile of the pump laser. Thanks to the soft-matter-based flexibility, our topological VCSEL can be "attached" to substrates of various shapes, enabling desired laser properties and robust beam steering even after undergoing hundreds of bends. Our results may find applications in consumer electronics, laser scanning and displays, as well as wearable devices. △ Less

Submitted 16 October, 2024; originally announced October 2024.

Super-resolution positron emission tomography by intensity modulation: Proof of concept

Authors: Youdong Lang, Qingguo Xie, Chien-Min Kao

Abstract: We proposed a new approach, which is inspired by the method of super-resolution (SR) structured illumination microscopy (SIM) for overcoming the resolution limit in microscopy due to diffraction of light, for increasing the resolution of clinical positron emission tomography (PET) beyond its instrumentation limit. We implemented the key idea behind SR-SIM by using a rotating intensity modulator in… ▽ More We proposed a new approach, which is inspired by the method of super-resolution (SR) structured illumination microscopy (SIM) for overcoming the resolution limit in microscopy due to diffraction of light, for increasing the resolution of clinical positron emission tomography (PET) beyond its instrumentation limit. We implemented the key idea behind SR-SIM by using a rotating intensity modulator in front of a stationary PET detector ring. Its function is to modulate down high-frequency signals of the projection data that originally were above the system's bandwidth and unobservable to appear as aliased lower-frequency ones that are detectable. We formulated a model that relates an image whose resolution is above the instrumentation limit to several thus obtained limited-resolution measurements at various rotational positions of the modulator. We implemented an ordered-subsets expectation-maximization algorithm for inverting the model. Using noise-free data produced by an analytic projector, we showed this approach can resolve 0.9 mm sources when applied to a PET system that employs 4.2 mm-width detectors. With noisy data, the SR performance remains promising. In particular, 1.5 mm sources were resolvable, and the visibility and quantification of small sources and fine structures were improved despite the sensitivity loss incurred by the modulator. These observations remain valid when using more realistic Monte-Carlo simulation data. More studies are needed to better understand the theoretical aspects of the proposed method and to optimize the design of the modulator and the reconstruction algorithm. △ Less

Submitted 3 February, 2026; v1 submitted 24 September, 2024; originally announced September 2024.

Comments: 15 pages, 12 figures

Neural Network-Assisted End-to-End Design for Dispersive Full-Parameter Control of Meta-Optics

Authors: Hanbin Chi, Yueqiang Hu, Xiangnian Ou, Yuting Jiang, Dian Yu, Shaozhen Lou, Quan Wang, Qiong Xie, Cheng-Wei Qiu, Huigao Duan

Abstract: Flexible control light field across multiple parameters is the cornerstone of versatile and miniaturized optical devices. Metasurfaces, comprising subwavelength scatterers, offer a potent platform for executing such precise manipulations. However, the inherent mutual constraints between parameters of metasurfaces make it challenging for traditional approaches to achieve full-parameter control acro… ▽ More Flexible control light field across multiple parameters is the cornerstone of versatile and miniaturized optical devices. Metasurfaces, comprising subwavelength scatterers, offer a potent platform for executing such precise manipulations. However, the inherent mutual constraints between parameters of metasurfaces make it challenging for traditional approaches to achieve full-parameter control across multiple wavelengths. Here, we propose a universal end-to-end inverse design framework to directly optimize the geometric parameter layout of meta-optics based on the target functionality of full-parameter control across multiple wavelengths. This framework employs a differentiable forward simulator integrating a neural network-based dispersive full-parameter Jones matrix and Fourier propagation to facilitate gradient-based optimization. Its superiority over sequential forward designs in dual-polarization channel color holography with higher quality and tri-polarization three-dimensional color holography with higher multiplexed capacity is showcased. To highlight the universality, we further present polarized spectral multi-information processing with six arbitrary polarizations and three wavelengths. This versatile, differentiable, system-level design framework is poised to expedite the advancement of meta-optics in integrated multi-information display, imaging, and communication, extending to multi-modal sensing applications. △ Less

Submitted 29 June, 2024; originally announced July 2024.

A Novel Quantum-Classical Hybrid Algorithm for Determining Eigenstate Energies in Quantum Systems

Authors: Qing-Xing Xie, Yan Zhao

Abstract: Developing efficient quantum computing algorithms is essential for tackling computationally challenging problems across various fields. This paper presents a novel quantum algorithm, XZ24, for efficiently computing the eigen-energy spectra of arbitrary quantum systems. Given a Hamiltonian $\hat{H}$ and an initial reference state $|ψ_{\text{ref}} \rangle$, the algorithm extracts information about… ▽ More Developing efficient quantum computing algorithms is essential for tackling computationally challenging problems across various fields. This paper presents a novel quantum algorithm, XZ24, for efficiently computing the eigen-energy spectra of arbitrary quantum systems. Given a Hamiltonian $\hat{H}$ and an initial reference state $|ψ_{\text{ref}} \rangle$, the algorithm extracts information about $\langle ψ_{\text{ref}} | \cos(\hat{H} t) | ψ_{\text{ref}} \rangle$ from an auxiliary qubit's state. By applying a Fourier transform, the algorithm resolves the energies of eigenstates of the Hamiltonian with significant overlap with the reference wavefunction. We provide a theoretical analysis and numerical simulations, showing XZ24's superior efficiency and accuracy compared to existing algorithms. XZ24 has three key advantages: 1. It removes the need for eigenstate preparation, requiring only a reference state with non-negligible overlap, improving upon methods like the Variational Quantum Eigensolver. 2. It reduces measurement overhead, measuring only one auxiliary qubit. For a system of size $L$ with precision $ε$, the sampling complexity scales as $O(L \cdot ε^{-1})$. When relative precision $ε$ is sufficient, the complexity scales as $O(ε^{-1})$, making measurements independent of system size. 3. It enables simultaneous computation of multiple eigen-energies, depending on the reference state. We anticipate that XZ24 will advance quantum system simulations and enhance applications in quantum computing. △ Less

Submitted 27 September, 2024; v1 submitted 1 June, 2024; originally announced June 2024.

Comments: 33 pages, 8 figures

SiN-on-SOI Optical Phased Array LiDAR for Ultra-Wide Field of View and 4D Sensing

Authors: Baisong Chen, Yingzhi Li, Qijie Xie, Quanxin Na, Min Tao, Ziming Wang, Zihao Zhi, Heming Hu, Xuetong Li, Huan Qu, Yafang He, Xiaolong Hu, Guoqiang Lo, Junfeng Song

Abstract: Three-dimensional (3D) imaging techniques are facilitating the autonomous vehicles to build intelligent system. Optical phased arrays (OPAs) featured by all solid-state configurations are becoming a promising solution for 3D imaging. However, majority of state-of-art OPAs commonly suffer from severe power degradation at the edge of field of view (FoV), resulting in limited effective FoV and deteri… ▽ More Three-dimensional (3D) imaging techniques are facilitating the autonomous vehicles to build intelligent system. Optical phased arrays (OPAs) featured by all solid-state configurations are becoming a promising solution for 3D imaging. However, majority of state-of-art OPAs commonly suffer from severe power degradation at the edge of field of view (FoV), resulting in limited effective FoV and deteriorating 3D imaging quality. Here, we synergize chained grating antenna and vernier concept to design a novel OPA for realizing a record wide 160°-FoV 3D imaging. By virtue of the chained antenna, the OPA exhibits less than 3-dB beam power variation within the 160° FoV. In addition, two OPAs with different pitch are integrated monolithically to form a quasi-coaxial Vernier OPA transceiver. With the aid of flat beam power profile provided by the chained antennas, the OPA exhibits uniform beam quality at an arbitrary steering angle. The superior beam steering performance enables the OPA to accomplish 160° wide-FoV 3D imaging based on the frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) LiDAR scheme. The ranging accuracy is 5.5-mm. Moreover, the OPA is also applied to velocity measurement for 4D sensing. To our best knowledge, it is the first experimental implementation of a Vernier OPA LiDAR on 3D imaging to achieve a remarkable FoV. △ Less

Submitted 8 January, 2024; originally announced January 2024.

Comments: 18 pages with 13 figures

Journal ref: Laser Photonics Rev 2024, 2301360

Realization of a quadrupole topological insulator phase in a gyromagnetic photonic crystal

Authors: Peiheng Zhou, Gui-Geng Liu, Zihao Wang, Yuan-Hang Hu, Shuwei Li, Qindong Xie, Yunpeng Zhang, Xiang Xi, Zhen Gao, Longjiang Deng, Baile Zhang

Abstract: The field of topological photonics was initiated with the realization of a Chern insulator phase in a gyromagnetic photonic crystal (PhC) with broken time-reversal symmetry (T), hosting chiral edge states that are topologically protected propagating modes. Recent advances in higher-order band topology have discovered another type of topological state, as manifested by those modes localized at the… ▽ More The field of topological photonics was initiated with the realization of a Chern insulator phase in a gyromagnetic photonic crystal (PhC) with broken time-reversal symmetry (T), hosting chiral edge states that are topologically protected propagating modes. Recent advances in higher-order band topology have discovered another type of topological state, as manifested by those modes localized at the corners of a sample, which are known as corner states. Here we report the realization of a quadrupole higher-order topological insulator phase in a gyromagnetic PhC, induced by a topological phase transition from the previously demonstrated Chern insulator phase. The evolution of the boundary modes from propagating chiral edge states to localized corner states has been characterized by microwave measurements. We also demonstrate topological bound states in the continuum, when the gyromagnetic PhC is magnetically tuned. These results extend the quadrupole topological insulator phase into T-broken systems, and integrate topologically protected propagating and localized modes in the same platform. △ Less

Submitted 6 February, 2023; originally announced February 2023.

Comments: 7 pages,4 figures

Viscous to inertial coalescence of liquid lenses: a lattice Boltzmann investigation

Authors: Thomas Scheel, Qingguang Xie, Marcello Sega, Jens Harting

Abstract: Liquid lens coalescence is an important mechanism involved in many industrial and scientific applications. It has been investigated both theoretically and experimentally, yet it is numerically very challenging to obtain consistent results over the wide ranges of surface tension and viscosity values that are necessary to capture the asymptotic temporal behavior in the viscous and inertial limits. W… ▽ More Liquid lens coalescence is an important mechanism involved in many industrial and scientific applications. It has been investigated both theoretically and experimentally, yet it is numerically very challenging to obtain consistent results over the wide ranges of surface tension and viscosity values that are necessary to capture the asymptotic temporal behavior in the viscous and inertial limits. We report results of massively parallel simulations based on the color gradient lattice Boltzmann method, which overcome these limitations, and investigate the scaling laws of both regimes. For the two-dimensional case we find good agreement with the similarity solution of the thin-sheet equation, where in the viscous regime the connecting bridge grows linearly with time and in the inertial regime proportionally to $t^{2/3}$. In three dimensions, the viscous growth of the bridge also exhibits a linear time dependence, while in the inertial regime the growth of both the bridge height and the bridge width is proportional to $t^{1/2}$. △ Less

Submitted 14 June, 2023; v1 submitted 13 January, 2023; originally announced January 2023.

Comments: 11 pages, 8 figures

Development of a GPU-accelerated Monte Carlo dose calculation module for nuclear medicine, ARCHER-NM: Demonstration for a PET/CT imaging procedure

Authors: Zhao Peng, Yu Lu, Yao Xu, Yongzhe Li, Bo Cheng, Ming Ni, Zhi Chen, Xi Pei, Qiang Xie, Shicun Wang, X. George Xu

Abstract: This paper describes the development and validation of a Monte Carlo (MC) dose computing module dedicated to organ dose calculations of patients undergoing nuclear medicine (NM) internal radiation exposures involving 18F-FDG PET/CT examination. This new module extends the more-than-10-years-long ARCHER project that developed a GPU-accelerated MC dose engine by adding dedicated NM source-definition… ▽ More This paper describes the development and validation of a Monte Carlo (MC) dose computing module dedicated to organ dose calculations of patients undergoing nuclear medicine (NM) internal radiation exposures involving 18F-FDG PET/CT examination. This new module extends the more-than-10-years-long ARCHER project that developed a GPU-accelerated MC dose engine by adding dedicated NM source-definition features. To validate the code, we compared dose distributions from the 0.511-MeV point photon source calculated for a water phantom as well as a patient PET/CT phantom against a well-tested MC code, GATE. The water-phantom results show excellent agreement, suggesting that the radiation physics module in the new NM code is adequate. To demonstrate the clinical utility and advantage of ARCHER-NM, one set of PET/CT data for an adult male NM patient is calculated using the new code. Radiosensitive organs in the CT dataset are segmented using a CNN-based tool called DeepViewer. The PET image intensity maps are converted to radioactivity distributions to allow for MC radiation transport dose calculations at the voxel level. The dose rate maps and corresponding statistical uncertainties were calculated for the duration of PET image acquisition. The dose rate results of the 18F-FDG PET imaging patient show that ARCHER-NM's results agree very well with those of the GATE within 0.58% to 4.11%. Most impressively, ARCHER-NM obtains such results in less than 0.5 minutes while it takes GATE as much as 376 minutes. This is the first study presenting GPU-accelerated patient-specific MC internal radiation dose rate calculations for clinically realistic 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging cases involving auto-segmentation of whole-body PET/CT images. This study suggests that modern computing tools -- ARCHER-NM and DeepViewer -- are accurate and fast enough for routine internal dosimetry in NM clinics. △ Less

Submitted 23 November, 2021; originally announced November 2021.

Comments: 17 pages, 5 figures, 1 table

Development of a PET/EPRI combined imaging system for assessing tumor hypoxia

Authors: Heejong Kim, Boris Epel, Subramanian Sundramoorthy, Hsiu-Ming Tsai, Eugene Barth, Inna Gertsenshteyn, Howard Halpern, Yuexuan Hua, Qingguo Xie, Chin-Tu Chen, Chien-Min Kao

Abstract: Precise quantitative delineation of tumor hypoxia is essential in radiation therapy treatment planning to improve the treatment efficacy by targeting hypoxic sub-volumes. We developed a combined imaging system of positron emission tomography (PET) and electron para-magnetic resonance imaging (EPRI) of molecular oxygen to investigate the accuracy of PET imaging in assessing tumor hypoxia. The PET/E… ▽ More Precise quantitative delineation of tumor hypoxia is essential in radiation therapy treatment planning to improve the treatment efficacy by targeting hypoxic sub-volumes. We developed a combined imaging system of positron emission tomography (PET) and electron para-magnetic resonance imaging (EPRI) of molecular oxygen to investigate the accuracy of PET imaging in assessing tumor hypoxia. The PET/EPRI combined imaging system aims to use EPRI to precisely measure the oxygen partial pressure in tissues. This will evaluate the validity of PET hypoxic tumor imaging by (near) simultaneously acquired EPRI as ground truth. The combined imaging system was constructed by integrating a small animal PET scanner (inner ring diameter 62 mm and axial field of view 25.6 mm) and an EPRI subsystem (field strength 25 mT and resonant frequency 700 MHz). The compatibility between the PET and EPRI subsystems were tested with both phantom and animal imaging. Hypoxic imaging on a tumor mouse model using $^{18}$F-fluoromisonidazole radio-tracer was conducted with the developed PET/EPRI system. We report the development and initial imaging results obtained from the PET/EPRI combined imaging system. △ Less

Submitted 27 January, 2021; originally announced January 2021.

Comments: 12 pages, 6 figures

Controllable Capillary Assembly of Magnetic Ellipsoidal Janus Particles into Tunable Rings, Chains and Hexagonal Lattices

Authors: Qingguang Xie, Jens Harting

Abstract: Colloidal assembly at fluid interfaces has a great potential for the bottom-up fabrication of novel structured materials. However, challenges remain in realizing controllable and tunable assembly of particles into diverse structures. Herein, we report the capillary assembly of magnetic ellipsoidal Janus particles at a fluid-fluid interface. Depending on their tilt angle, i.e. the angle the particl… ▽ More Colloidal assembly at fluid interfaces has a great potential for the bottom-up fabrication of novel structured materials. However, challenges remain in realizing controllable and tunable assembly of particles into diverse structures. Herein, we report the capillary assembly of magnetic ellipsoidal Janus particles at a fluid-fluid interface. Depending on their tilt angle, i.e. the angle the particle main axis forms with the fluid interface, these particles deform the interface and generate capillary dipoles or hexapoles. Driven by capillary interactions, multiple particles thus assemble into chain-, hexagonal lattice- and ring-like structures, which can be actively controlled by applying an external magnetic field. We predict a field-strength phase diagram in which various structures are present as stable states. Owing to the diversity, controllability, and tunability of assembled structures, magnetic ellipsoidal Janus particles at fluid interfaces could therefore serve as versatile building blocks for novel materials. △ Less

Submitted 27 December, 2020; v1 submitted 21 September, 2020; originally announced September 2020.

Comments: 6 pages, 4 figures, + supplementary material

Accurate Correlation Energy Functional for Uniform Electron Gas from an Interpolation Ansatz without Fitting Parameters

Authors: Qing-Xing Xie, Jiashun Wu, Yan Zhao

Abstract: We report an analytical representation of the correlation energy ec(rs, zeta) for a uniform electron gas (UEG), where rs is the Seitz radius or density parameter and zeta is the relative spin polarization. The new functional, called W20, is constructed to capture the known high-density and low-density limit (for zeta = 0 and 1) without any fitting parameters. The comparative assessment against the… ▽ More We report an analytical representation of the correlation energy ec(rs, zeta) for a uniform electron gas (UEG), where rs is the Seitz radius or density parameter and zeta is the relative spin polarization. The new functional, called W20, is constructed to capture the known high-density and low-density limit (for zeta = 0 and 1) without any fitting parameters. The comparative assessment against the recent quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) results shows that the performance of the W20 functional is comparable to the popular parametrized UEG correlation functionals. On average, W20 agrees with QMC and PW92 [Phys. Rev. B 45, 13244 (1992)] within 0.01 eV, and W20 recovers the correct high- and low-density limits, whereas the QMC-data fitted UEG correlation functionals do not. △ Less

Submitted 11 January, 2021; v1 submitted 6 September, 2020; originally announced September 2020.

Comments: 15 pages, 2 figures, 5 tables

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 103, 045130 (2021)

Optimization of the JUNO liquid scintillator composition using a Daya Bay antineutrino detector

Authors: Daya Bay, JUNO collaborations, :, A. Abusleme, T. Adam, S. Ahmad, S. Aiello, M. Akram, N. Ali, F. P. An, G. P. An, Q. An, G. Andronico, N. Anfimov, V. Antonelli, T. Antoshkina, B. Asavapibhop, J. P. A. M. de André, A. Babic, A. B. Balantekin, W. Baldini, M. Baldoncini, H. R. Band, A. Barresi, E. Baussan , et al. (642 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: To maximize the light yield of the liquid scintillator (LS) for the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), a 20 t LS sample was produced in a pilot plant at Daya Bay. The optical properties of the new LS in various compositions were studied by replacing the gadolinium-loaded LS in one antineutrino detector. The concentrations of the fluor, PPO, and the wavelength shifter, bis-MSB, were… ▽ More To maximize the light yield of the liquid scintillator (LS) for the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), a 20 t LS sample was produced in a pilot plant at Daya Bay. The optical properties of the new LS in various compositions were studied by replacing the gadolinium-loaded LS in one antineutrino detector. The concentrations of the fluor, PPO, and the wavelength shifter, bis-MSB, were increased in 12 steps from 0.5 g/L and <0.01 mg/L to 4 g/L and 13 mg/L, respectively. The numbers of total detected photoelectrons suggest that, with the optically purified solvent, the bis-MSB concentration does not need to be more than 4 mg/L. To bridge the one order of magnitude in the detector size difference between Daya Bay and JUNO, the Daya Bay data were used to tune the parameters of a newly developed optical model. Then, the model and tuned parameters were used in the JUNO simulation. This enabled to determine the optimal composition for the JUNO LS: purified solvent LAB with 2.5 g/L PPO, and 1 to 4 mg/L bis-MSB. △ Less

Submitted 1 July, 2020; originally announced July 2020.

Comments: 13 pages, 8 figures

Search For Electron-Antineutrinos Associated With Gravitational-Wave Events GW150914, GW151012, GW151226, GW170104, GW170608, GW170814, and GW170817 at Daya Bay

Authors: F. P. An, A. B. Balantekin, H. R. Band, M. Bishai, S. Blyth, G. F. Cao, J. Cao, J. F. Chang, Y. Chang, H. S. Chen, S. M. Chen, Y. Chen, Y. X. Chen, J. Cheng, Z. K. Cheng, J. J. Cherwinka, M. C. Chu, J. P. Cummings, O. Dalager, F. S. Deng, Y. Y. Ding, M. V. Diwan, T. Dohnal, J. Dove, M. Dvorak , et al. (161 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Providing a possible connection between neutrino emission and gravitational-wave (GW) bursts is important to our understanding of the physical processes that occur when black holes or neutron stars merge. In the Daya Bay experiment, using data collected from December 2011 to August 2017, a search has been performed for electron-antineutrino signals coinciding with detected GW events, including GW1… ▽ More Providing a possible connection between neutrino emission and gravitational-wave (GW) bursts is important to our understanding of the physical processes that occur when black holes or neutron stars merge. In the Daya Bay experiment, using data collected from December 2011 to August 2017, a search has been performed for electron-antineutrino signals coinciding with detected GW events, including GW150914, GW151012, GW151226, GW170104, GW170608, GW170814, and GW170817. We used three time windows of $\mathrm{\pm 10~s}$, $\mathrm{\pm 500~s}$, and $\mathrm{\pm 1000~s}$ relative to the occurrence of the GW events, and a neutrino energy range of 1.8 to 100 MeV to search for correlated neutrino candidates. The detected electron-antineutrino candidates are consistent with the expected background rates for all the three time windows. Assuming monochromatic spectra, we found upper limits (90% confidence level) on electron-antineutrino fluence of $(1.13~-~2.44) \times 10^{11}~\rm{cm^{-2}}$ at 5 MeV to $8.0 \times 10^{7}~\rm{cm^{-2}}$ at 100 MeV for the three time windows. Under the assumption of a Fermi-Dirac spectrum, the upper limits were found to be $(5.4~-~7.0)\times 10^{9}~\rm{cm^{-2}}$ for the three time windows. △ Less

Submitted 14 September, 2020; v1 submitted 27 June, 2020; originally announced June 2020.

Comments: 16 pages, 12 figures, 9 tables

Reflectance of Silicon Photomultipliers in Linear Alkylbenzene

Authors: W. Wang, G. F. Cao, Z. Q. Xie, J. Cao, M. Qi, L. J. Wen

Abstract: Reflectance of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) is an important aspect to understand the large scale SiPM-based detector systems and evaluate the performance of SiPMs. We report the reflactance of two SiPMs, NUV-HD-lowCT and S14160-60-50HS manufactured by Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) and Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. (HPK) respectively, in linear alkylbenzene (LAB) and in air at visible wavelengths.… ▽ More Reflectance of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) is an important aspect to understand the large scale SiPM-based detector systems and evaluate the performance of SiPMs. We report the reflactance of two SiPMs, NUV-HD-lowCT and S14160-60-50HS manufactured by Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) and Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. (HPK) respectively, in linear alkylbenzene (LAB) and in air at visible wavelengths. Our results show that the reflectance of the FBK SiPM in air varies in the range of 14% to 23% , depending on wavelengths and angle of incidence, which is 2 time larger than that of the HPK device. This indicates that the two manufacturers are using different designs of anti-reflective coating on SiPMs' surfaces. The reflectance is reduced by about 10% when SiPMs are immersed in LAB, compared with that measured in air. The profiles of reflected light beams are also measured by a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera for the two SiPMs. △ Less

Submitted 11 February, 2020; originally announced February 2020.

Self-Similar Liquid Lens Coalescence

Authors: Michiel A. Hack, Walter Tewes, Qingguang Xie, Charu Datt, Kirsten Harth, Jens Harting, Jacco H. Snoeijer

Abstract: A basic feature of liquid drops is that they can merge upon contact to form a larger drop. In spite of its importance to various applications, drop coalescence on pre-wetted substrates has received little attention. Here, we experimentally and theoretically reveal the dynamics of drop coalescence on a thick layer of a low-viscosity liquid. It is shown that these so-called "liquid lenses" merge by… ▽ More A basic feature of liquid drops is that they can merge upon contact to form a larger drop. In spite of its importance to various applications, drop coalescence on pre-wetted substrates has received little attention. Here, we experimentally and theoretically reveal the dynamics of drop coalescence on a thick layer of a low-viscosity liquid. It is shown that these so-called "liquid lenses" merge by the self-similar vertical growth of a bridge connecting the two lenses. Using a slender analysis, we derive similarity solutions corresponding to the viscous and inertial limits. Excellent agreement is found with the experiments without any adjustable parameters, capturing both the spatial and temporal structure of the flow during coalescence. Finally, we consider the crossover between the two regimes and show that all data of different lens viscosities collapse on a single curve capturing the full range of the coalescence dynamics. △ Less

Submitted 9 March, 2020; v1 submitted 13 December, 2019; originally announced December 2019.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 124, 194502 (2020)

Empirical validation of network learning with taxi GPS data from Wuhan, China

Authors: Susan Jia Xu, Qian Xie, Joseph Y. J. Chow, Xintao Liu

Abstract: In prior research, a statistically cheap method was developed to monitor transportation network performance by using only a few groups of agents without having to forecast the population flows. The current study validates this "multi-agent inverse optimization" method using taxi GPS probe data from the city of Wuhan, China. Using a controlled 2062-link network environment and different GPS data pr… ▽ More In prior research, a statistically cheap method was developed to monitor transportation network performance by using only a few groups of agents without having to forecast the population flows. The current study validates this "multi-agent inverse optimization" method using taxi GPS probe data from the city of Wuhan, China. Using a controlled 2062-link network environment and different GPS data processing algorithms, an online monitoring environment is simulated using the real data over a 4-hour period. Results show that using only samples from one OD pair, the multi-agent inverse optimization method can learn network parameters such that forecasted travel times have a 0.23 correlation with the observed travel times. By increasing to monitoring from just two OD pairs, the correlation improves further to 0.56. △ Less

Submitted 17 August, 2020; v1 submitted 9 November, 2019; originally announced November 2019.

Journal ref: IEEE Intelligent Transportation Systems Magazine 13(1) (2021) 42-58

New Technologies for Discovery

Authors: Z. Ahmed, A. Apresyan, M. Artuso, P. Barry, E. Bielejec, F. Blaszczyk, T. Bose, D. Braga, S. A. Charlebois, A. Chatterjee, A. Chavarria, H. -M. Cho, S. Dalla Torre, M. Demarteau, D. Denisov, M. Diefenthaler, A. Dragone, F. Fahim, C. Gee, S. Habib, G. Haller, J. Hogan, B. J. P. Jones, M. Garcia-Sciveres, G. Giacomini , et al. (58 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: For the field of high energy physics to continue to have a bright future, priority within the field must be given to investments in the development of both evolutionary and transformational detector development that is coordinated across the national laboratories and with the university community, international partners and other disciplines. While the fundamental science questions addressed by hi… ▽ More For the field of high energy physics to continue to have a bright future, priority within the field must be given to investments in the development of both evolutionary and transformational detector development that is coordinated across the national laboratories and with the university community, international partners and other disciplines. While the fundamental science questions addressed by high energy physics have never been more compelling, there is acute awareness of the challenging budgetary and technical constraints when scaling current technologies. Furthermore, many technologies are reaching their sensitivity limit and new approaches need to be developed to overcome the currently irreducible technological challenges. This situation is unfolding against a backdrop of declining funding for instrumentation, both at the national laboratories and in particular at the universities. This trend has to be reversed for the country to continue to play a leadership role in particle physics, especially in this most promising era of imminent new discoveries that could finally break the hugely successful, but limited, Standard Model of fundamental particle interactions. In this challenging environment it is essential that the community invest anew in instrumentation and optimize the use of the available resources to develop new innovative, cost-effective instrumentation, as this is our best hope to successfully accomplish the mission of high energy physics. This report summarizes the current status of instrumentation for high energy physics, the challenges and needs of future experiments and indicates high priority research areas. △ Less

Submitted 10 August, 2019; v1 submitted 31 July, 2019; originally announced August 2019.

Comments: A report of the 2018 DPF Coordinating Panel for Advanced Detectors (CPAD) Community Workshop (101 pages)

Optimal motion of triangular magnetocapillary swimmers

Authors: Alexander Sukhov, Sebastian Ziegler, Qingguang Xie, Oleg Trosman, Jayant Pande, Galien Grosjean, Maxime Hubert, Nicolas Vandewalle, Ana-Suncana Smith, Jens Harting

Abstract: A system of ferromagnetic particles trapped at a liquid-liquid interface and subjected to a set of magnetic fields (magnetocapillary swimmers) is studied numerically using a hybrid method combining the pseudopotential lattice Boltzmann method and the discrete element method. After investigating the equilibrium properties of a single, two and three particles at the interface, we demonstrate a contr… ▽ More A system of ferromagnetic particles trapped at a liquid-liquid interface and subjected to a set of magnetic fields (magnetocapillary swimmers) is studied numerically using a hybrid method combining the pseudopotential lattice Boltzmann method and the discrete element method. After investigating the equilibrium properties of a single, two and three particles at the interface, we demonstrate a controlled motion of the swimmer formed by three particles. It shows a sharp dependence of the average center-of-mass speed on the frequency of the time-dependent external magnetic field. Inspired by experiments on magnetocapillary microswimmers, we interpret the obtained maxima of the swimmer speed by the optimal frequency centered around the characteristic relaxation time of a spherical particle. It is also shown that the frequency corresponding to the maximum speed grows and the maximum average speed decreases with increasing inter-particle distances at moderate swimmer sizes. The findings of our lattice Boltzmann simulations are supported by bead-spring model calculations. △ Less

Submitted 28 June, 2019; v1 submitted 8 January, 2019; originally announced January 2019.

Comments: 10 pages, 11 figures

Journal ref: J. Chem. Phys. 151, 124707 (2019)

Imaging Gigahertz Zero-Group-Velocity Lamb Waves

Authors: Qingnan Xie, Sylvain Mezil, Paul H Otsuka, Motonobu Tomoda, Jérôme Laurent, Osamu Matsuda, Zhonghua Shen, Oliver B Wright

Abstract: We image GHz zero-group-velocity (ZGV) Lamb waves in the time domain by means of an ultrafast optical technique, revealing their stationary nature and their acoustic energy localization in two dimensions. The acoustic field is imaged to micron resolution on a nanoscale bilayer consisting of a silicon-nitride plate coated with a titanium film. Temporal and spatiotemporal Fourier transforms combined… ▽ More We image GHz zero-group-velocity (ZGV) Lamb waves in the time domain by means of an ultrafast optical technique, revealing their stationary nature and their acoustic energy localization in two dimensions. The acoustic field is imaged to micron resolution on a nanoscale bilayer consisting of a silicon-nitride plate coated with a titanium film. Temporal and spatiotemporal Fourier transforms combined with a technique involving the intensity modulation of the optical pump and probe beams gives access to arbitrary acoustic frequencies, allowing ZGV modes to be isolated. The dispersion curves of the bilayer system are extracted together with the Q factor and lifetime of the first ZGV mode. Applications include the testing of bonded nanostructures. △ Less

Submitted 7 January, 2019; v1 submitted 4 January, 2019; originally announced January 2019.

Comments: Main : 8 pages (3 figures) - Supplementary : 4 pages (2 fig) - 1 animation

The effect of the liquid layer thickness on the dissolution of immersed surface droplets

Authors: Qingguang Xie, Jens Harting

Abstract: Droplets on a liquid-immersed solid surface are key elements in many applications, such as high-throughput chemical analysis and droplet-templated porous materials. Such surface droplets dissolve when the surrounding liquid is undersaturated and the dissolution process is usually treated analogous to a sessile droplet evaporating in air. Typically, theoretical models predict the mass loss rate of… ▽ More Droplets on a liquid-immersed solid surface are key elements in many applications, such as high-throughput chemical analysis and droplet-templated porous materials. Such surface droplets dissolve when the surrounding liquid is undersaturated and the dissolution process is usually treated analogous to a sessile droplet evaporating in air. Typically, theoretical models predict the mass loss rate of dissolving droplets as a function of droplet geometrical factors (radius, constant angle), and droplet material properties (diffusion constant and densities), where the thickness of the surrounding liquid layer is neglected. Here, we investigate, both numerically and theoretically, the effect of the thickness of the surrounding liquid layer on the lifetime of dissolving surface droplets. We perform $3D$ lattice Boltzmann simulations and find that the lifetime is proportional to the thickness of the liquid layer. We propose a theoretical model based on a quasistatic diffusion equation which confirms the numerical results. Our results offer insight to the fundamental understanding of dissolving surface droplets and can provide valuable guidelines for the design of devices where the droplet lifetime is of importance. △ Less

Submitted 5 July, 2019; v1 submitted 19 December, 2018; originally announced December 2018.

Comments: 8 pages,7 figures

Journal ref: Soft Matter, 2019,15, 6461-6468

Investigating the difference in mechanical stability of retained austenite in bainitic and martensitic high-carbon bearing steels using in situ neutron diffraction and crystal plasticity modeling

Authors: Rohit Voothaluru, Vikram Bedekar, Dunji Yu, Qingge Xie, Ke An, R Scott Hyde

Abstract: In situ neutron diffraction of the uniaxial tension test was used to study the effect of the surrounding matrix microstructure on the mechanical stability of retained austenite in high-carbon bearing steels. Comparing the samples with bainitic microstructures to those with martensitic ones it was found that the retained austenite in a bainitic matrix starts transforming into martensite at a lower… ▽ More In situ neutron diffraction of the uniaxial tension test was used to study the effect of the surrounding matrix microstructure on the mechanical stability of retained austenite in high-carbon bearing steels. Comparing the samples with bainitic microstructures to those with martensitic ones it was found that the retained austenite in a bainitic matrix starts transforming into martensite at a lower strain compared to that within a martensitic matrix. On the other hand, the rate of transformation of the austenite was found to be higher within a martensitic microstructure. Crystal plasticity modeling was used to analyze the transformation phenomenon in these two microstructures and determine the effect of surrounding microstructure on elastic, plastic and transformation components of the strain. The results showed that the predominant difference in the deformation accumulated was from the transformation strain and the critical transformation driving force within the two microstructures. The retained austenite was more stable for identical loading conditions in case of martensitic matrix compared to the bainitic one. It was also observed that the initial volume fraction of retained austenite within the bainitic matrix would alter the onset of transformation to martensite but not the rate of transformation. △ Less

Submitted 17 July, 2018; originally announced July 2018.

Comments: 23 pages, Author's Copy Pre-Print

Chaos and $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetry breaking transitions in a driven, nonlinear dimer with balanced gain and loss

Authors: Shiguang Rong, Qiongtao Xie, Yogesh N. Joglekar

Abstract: Dynamics of a simple system, such as a two-state (dimer) model, are dramatically changed in the presence of interactions and external driving, and the resultant unitary dynamics show both regular and chaotic regions. We investigate the non-unitary dynamics of such a dimer in the presence of balanced gain and loss for the two states, i.e. a $\mathcal{PT}$ symmetric dimer. We find that at low and hi… ▽ More Dynamics of a simple system, such as a two-state (dimer) model, are dramatically changed in the presence of interactions and external driving, and the resultant unitary dynamics show both regular and chaotic regions. We investigate the non-unitary dynamics of such a dimer in the presence of balanced gain and loss for the two states, i.e. a $\mathcal{PT}$ symmetric dimer. We find that at low and high driving frequencies, the $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric dimer motion continues to be regular, and the system is in the $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric state. On that other hand, for intermediate driving frequency, the system shows chaotic motion, and is usually in the $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetry broken state. Our results elucidate the interplay between the $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetry breaking transitions and regular-chaotic transitions in an experimentally accessible toy model. △ Less

Submitted 2 July, 2018; originally announced July 2018.

Comments: 8 pages, 6 figures

From dot to ring: the role of friction on the deposition pattern of a drying colloidal suspension droplet

Authors: Qingguang Xie, Jens Harting

Abstract: The deposition of particles on a substrate by drying a colloidal suspension droplet is at the core of applications ranging from traditional printing on paper to printable electronics or photovoltaic devices. The self-pinning induced by the accumulation of particles at the contact line plays an important role in the formation of the deposition. In this paper, we investigate both numerically and the… ▽ More The deposition of particles on a substrate by drying a colloidal suspension droplet is at the core of applications ranging from traditional printing on paper to printable electronics or photovoltaic devices. The self-pinning induced by the accumulation of particles at the contact line plays an important role in the formation of the deposition. In this paper, we investigate both numerically and theoretically, the effect of friction between the particles and the substrate on the deposition pattern. Without friction, the contact line shows a stick-slip behaviour and a dot-like deposit is left after the droplet is evaporated. By increasing the friction force, we observe a transition from a dot-like to a ring-like deposit. We propose a theoretical model to predict the effective radius of the particle deposition as a function of the friction force. Our theoretical model predicts a critical friction force when the self-pinning happens and the effective radius of deposit increases with increasing friction force, confirmed by our simulation results. Our results can find implications for developing active control strategies for the deposition of drying droplets. △ Less

Submitted 24 April, 2018; originally announced April 2018.

Comments: 11 pages, 10 figures

Journal ref: Langmuir, 2018

Segmentation-Free X-ray Energy Spectrum Estimation for Computed Tomography Using Dual-Energy Material Decomposition

Authors: Wei Zhao, Lei Xing, Qiude Zhang, Qingguo Xie, Tianye Niu

Abstract: X-ray energy spectrum plays an essential role in computed tomography (CT) imaging and related tasks. Due to the high photon flux of clinical CT scanners, most of spectrum estimation methods are indirect and usually suffered from various limitations. In this study, we aim to provide a segmentation-free indirect transmission measurement-based energy spectrum estimation method using dual-energy mater… ▽ More X-ray energy spectrum plays an essential role in computed tomography (CT) imaging and related tasks. Due to the high photon flux of clinical CT scanners, most of spectrum estimation methods are indirect and usually suffered from various limitations. In this study, we aim to provide a segmentation-free indirect transmission measurement-based energy spectrum estimation method using dual-energy material decomposition. The general principle of the method is to minimize the quadratic error between the polychromatic forward projection and the raw projection to calibrate a set of unknown weights which are used to express the unknown spectrum together with a set of model spectra. The polychromatic forward projection is performed using material-specific images which are obtained using dual-energy material decomposition. The algorithm has been evaluated using numerical simulations, experimental phantom data as well as realistic patient data. The results show the estimated spectrum matches the reference spectrum quite well and the method is robust. Extensive studies suggest the method provides accurate estimate of the CT spectrum without dedicated physical phantom and prolonged work flow. This paper may be attractive for CT dose calculations, artifacts reduction, polychromatic image reconstruction and other spectrum-involved CT applications. △ Less

Submitted 9 June, 2017; originally announced June 2017.

Comments: Accepted by Journal of Medical Imaging. arXiv admin note: text overlap with arXiv:1604.04986

Diffusion dominated evaporation in multicomponent lattice Boltzmann simulations

Authors: Dennis Hessling, Qingguang Xie, Jens Harting

Abstract: We present a diffusion dominated evaporation model using the popular pseudopotential multicomponent lattice Boltzmann method introduced by Shan and Chen. With an analytical computation of the diffusion coefficients, we demonstrate that Fick's law is obeyed. We then validate the applicability of our model by demonstrating the agreement of the time evolution of the interface position of an evaporati… ▽ More We present a diffusion dominated evaporation model using the popular pseudopotential multicomponent lattice Boltzmann method introduced by Shan and Chen. With an analytical computation of the diffusion coefficients, we demonstrate that Fick's law is obeyed. We then validate the applicability of our model by demonstrating the agreement of the time evolution of the interface position of an evaporating planar film to the analytical prediction. Furthermore, we study the evaporation of a freely floating droplet and confirm that the effect of Laplace pressure is significant for predicting the time evolution of small droplet radii. △ Less

Submitted 31 January, 2017; v1 submitted 13 January, 2017; originally announced January 2017.

Comments: 6 figures

The quantum Rabi model: solution and dynamics

Authors: Qiongtao Xie, Honghua Zhong, Murray T. Batchelor, Chaohong Lee

Abstract: This article presents a review of recent developments on various aspects of the quantum Rabi model. Particular emphasis is given on the exact analytic solution obtained in terms of confluent Heun functions. The analytic solutions for various generalisations of the quantum Rabi model are also discussed. Results are also reviewed on the level statistics and the dynamics of the quantum Rabi model. Th… ▽ More This article presents a review of recent developments on various aspects of the quantum Rabi model. Particular emphasis is given on the exact analytic solution obtained in terms of confluent Heun functions. The analytic solutions for various generalisations of the quantum Rabi model are also discussed. Results are also reviewed on the level statistics and the dynamics of the quantum Rabi model. The article concludes with an introductory overview of several experimental realisations of the quantum Rabi model. An outlook towards future developments is also given. △ Less

Submitted 13 January, 2017; v1 submitted 1 September, 2016; originally announced September 2016.

Comments: 42 pages, 13 figures. Minor changes, references added

Journal ref: J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 50 (2017) 113001

Tunable Dipolar Capillary Deformations for Magnetic Janus Particles at Fluid-Fluid Interfaces

Authors: Qingguang Xie, Gary B. Davies, Florian Günther, Jens Harting

Abstract: Janus particles have attracted significant interest as building blocks for complex materials in recent years. Furthermore, capillary interactions have been identified as a promising tool for directed self-assembly of particles at fluid-fluid interfaces. In this paper, we develop theoretical models describing the behaviour of magnetic Janus particles adsorbed at fluid-fluid interfaces interacting w… ▽ More Janus particles have attracted significant interest as building blocks for complex materials in recent years. Furthermore, capillary interactions have been identified as a promising tool for directed self-assembly of particles at fluid-fluid interfaces. In this paper, we develop theoretical models describing the behaviour of magnetic Janus particles adsorbed at fluid-fluid interfaces interacting with an external magnetic field. Using numerical simulations, we test the models predictions and show that the magnetic Janus particles deform the interface in a dipolar manner. We suggest how to utilise the resulting dipolar capillary interactions to assemble particles at a fluid-fluid interface, and further demonstrate that the strength of these interactions can be tuned by altering the external field strength, opening up the possibility to create novel, reconfigurable materials. △ Less

Submitted 12 March, 2015; v1 submitted 30 January, 2015; originally announced January 2015.

Comments: 9 pages, 7 figures

Planning the Future of U.S. Particle Physics (Snowmass 2013): Chapter 8: Instrumentation Frontier

Authors: M. Demarteau, R. Lipton, H. Nicholson, I. Shipsey, D. Akerib, A. Albayrak-Yetkin, J. Alexander, J. Anderson, M. Artuso, D. Asner, R. Ball, M. Battaglia, C. Bebek, J. Beene, Y. Benhammou, E. Bentefour, M. Bergevin, A. Bernstein, B. Bilki, E. Blucher, G. Bolla, D. Bortoletto, N. Bowden, G. Brooijmans, K. Byrum , et al. (189 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: These reports present the results of the 2013 Community Summer Study of the APS Division of Particles and Fields ("Snowmass 2013") on the future program of particle physics in the U.S. Chapter 8, on the Instrumentation Frontier, discusses the instrumentation needs of future experiments in the Energy, Intensity, and Cosmic Frontiers, promising new technologies for particle physics research, and iss… ▽ More These reports present the results of the 2013 Community Summer Study of the APS Division of Particles and Fields ("Snowmass 2013") on the future program of particle physics in the U.S. Chapter 8, on the Instrumentation Frontier, discusses the instrumentation needs of future experiments in the Energy, Intensity, and Cosmic Frontiers, promising new technologies for particle physics research, and issues of gathering resources for long-term research in this area. △ Less

Submitted 23 January, 2014; originally announced January 2014.

Comments: 50 pages

Silicon Avalanche Pixel Sensor for High Precision Tracking

Authors: N. D'Ascenzo, P. S. Marrocchesi, C. S. Moon, F. Morsani, L. Ratti, V. Saveliev, A. Savoy Navarro, Q. Xie

Abstract: The development of an innovative position sensitive pixelated sensor to detect and measure with high precision the coordinates of the ionizing particles is proposed. The silicon avalanche pixel sensors (APiX) is based on the vertical integration of avalanche pixels connected in pairs and operated in coincidence in fully digital mode and with the processing electronics embedded on the chip. The APi… ▽ More The development of an innovative position sensitive pixelated sensor to detect and measure with high precision the coordinates of the ionizing particles is proposed. The silicon avalanche pixel sensors (APiX) is based on the vertical integration of avalanche pixels connected in pairs and operated in coincidence in fully digital mode and with the processing electronics embedded on the chip. The APiX sensor addresses the need to minimize the material budget and related multiple scattering effects in tracking systems requiring a high spatial resolution in the presence of a large occupancy. The expected operation of the new sensor features: low noise, low power consumption and suitable radiation tolerance. The APiX device provides on-chip digital information on the position of the coordinate of the impinging charged particle and can be seen as the building block of a modular system of pixelated arrays, implementing a sparsified readout. The technological challenges are the 3D integration of the device under CMOS processes and integration of processing electronics. △ Less

Submitted 30 November, 2013; originally announced December 2013.

Comments: 13th Topical Seminar on Innovative Particle and Radiation Detectors IPRD13

Analytical eigenstates for the quantum Rabi model

Authors: Honghua Zhong, Qiongtao Xie, Murray Batchelor, Chaohong Lee

Abstract: We develop a method to find analytical solutions for the eigenstates of the quantum Rabi model. These include symmetric, anti-symmetric and asymmetric analytic solutions given in terms of the confluent Heun functions. Both regular and exceptional solutions are given in a unified form. In addition, the analytic conditions for determining the energy spectrum are obtained. Our results show that condi… ▽ More We develop a method to find analytical solutions for the eigenstates of the quantum Rabi model. These include symmetric, anti-symmetric and asymmetric analytic solutions given in terms of the confluent Heun functions. Both regular and exceptional solutions are given in a unified form. In addition, the analytic conditions for determining the energy spectrum are obtained. Our results show that conditions proposed by Braak [Phys. Rev. Lett. \textbf{107}, 100401 (2011)] are a type of sufficiency condition for determining the regular solutions. The well-known Judd isolated exact solutions appear naturally as truncations of the confluent Heun functions. △ Less

Submitted 9 September, 2013; v1 submitted 29 May, 2013; originally announced May 2013.

Comments: 15 pages, 3 figure, to appear in J. Phys. A

Journal ref: J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 46 (2013) 415302

Pseudo Parity-Time Symmetry in Optical Systems

Authors: Xiaobing Luo, Jiahao Huang, Honghua Zhong, Xizhou Qin, Qiongtao Xie, Yuri S. Kivshar, Chaohong Lee

Abstract: We introduce a novel concept of the {\em pseudo} parity-time ($\mathcal{PT}$) symmetry in periodically modulated optical systems with balanced gain and loss. We demonstrate that whether the original system is $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric or not, we can manipulate the property of the $\mathcal{PT}$ symmetry by applying a periodic modulation in such a way that the effective system derived by the high-fr… ▽ More We introduce a novel concept of the {\em pseudo} parity-time ($\mathcal{PT}$) symmetry in periodically modulated optical systems with balanced gain and loss. We demonstrate that whether the original system is $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric or not, we can manipulate the property of the $\mathcal{PT}$ symmetry by applying a periodic modulation in such a way that the effective system derived by the high-frequency Floquet method is $\mathcal{PT}$ symmetric. If the original system is non-$\mathcal{PT}$ symmetric, the $\mathcal{PT}$ symmetry in the effective system will lead to quasi-stationary propagation that can be associated with the \emph{pseudo $\mathcal{PT}$ symmetry}. Our results provide a promising approach for manipulating the $\mathcal{PT}$ symmetry of realistic systems. △ Less

Submitted 24 May, 2013; v1 submitted 5 February, 2013; originally announced February 2013.

Comments: accepted for publication in Physical Review Letters, including supplementary materials

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 110, 243902 (2013)

Nonlinear dissipative dynamics of a two-component atomic condensate coupling with a continuum

Authors: Honghua Zhong, Qiongtao Xie, Jun Xu, Wenhua Hai, Chaohong Lee

Abstract: We investigate the nonlinear dissipative coherence bifurcation and population dynamics of a two-component atomic Bose-Einstein condensate coupling with a continuum. The coupling between the two-component condensates and the continuum brings effective dissipations to the two-component condensates. The steady states and the coherence bifurcation depend on both dissipation and the nonlinear interacti… ▽ More We investigate the nonlinear dissipative coherence bifurcation and population dynamics of a two-component atomic Bose-Einstein condensate coupling with a continuum. The coupling between the two-component condensates and the continuum brings effective dissipations to the two-component condensates. The steady states and the coherence bifurcation depend on both dissipation and the nonlinear interaction between condensed atoms. The coherence among condensed atoms may be even enhanced by the effective dissipations. The combination of dissipation and nonlinearity allows one to control the switching between different self-trapped states or the switching between a self-trapped state and a non-self-trapped state. △ Less

Submitted 9 September, 2013; v1 submitted 18 December, 2012; originally announced December 2012.

Comments: to appear in Chin. Phys. B

Journal ref: Chin. Phys. B 23, (2014) 020314

Finite superposition solutions for surface states in a type of photonic superlattices

Authors: Qiongtao Xie, Chaohong Lee

Abstract: We develop an efficient method to derive a class of surface states in photonic superlattices. In a kind of infinite bichromatic superlattices satisfying some specific conditions, we obtain a finite portion of their in-gap states, which are superpositions of finite numbers of their unstable Bloch waves. By using these unstable in-gap states, we construct exactly several stable surface states near v… ▽ More We develop an efficient method to derive a class of surface states in photonic superlattices. In a kind of infinite bichromatic superlattices satisfying some specific conditions, we obtain a finite portion of their in-gap states, which are superpositions of finite numbers of their unstable Bloch waves. By using these unstable in-gap states, we construct exactly several stable surface states near various interfaces in photonic superlattices. We analytically explore the parametric dependence of these exact surface states. Our analysis provides an exact demonstration for the existence of surface states and would be also helpful to understand surface states in other lattice systems. △ Less

Submitted 23 April, 2012; v1 submitted 8 January, 2012; originally announced January 2012.

Comments: 7 pages, 4 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. A 85, 063802 (2012)

All-optical switch with two periodically curved nonlinear waveguides

Authors: Qiongtao Xie, Xiaobing Luo, Biao Wu

Abstract: We propose a type of all-optical switch which consists of two periodically curved nonlinear optical waveguides placed in parallel. Compared to the all-optical switch based on the traditional nonlinear directional coupler with straight waveguides, this all-optical switch has much lower switching threshold power and sharper switching width. We propose a type of all-optical switch which consists of two periodically curved nonlinear optical waveguides placed in parallel. Compared to the all-optical switch based on the traditional nonlinear directional coupler with straight waveguides, this all-optical switch has much lower switching threshold power and sharper switching width. △ Less

Submitted 20 February, 2008; v1 submitted 24 January, 2008; originally announced January 2008.

Comments: 4 pages,3 figures

Journal ref: Optics Letters, 35(3) 321-323(2010)