h\to \gamma \gamma In Inert Higgs Doublet Model

Motivated by the recent result reported from LHC on the di-photon search for a Standard Model (SM) Higgs-like boson. We discuss the implications of this possible signal in the framework of the Inert Higgs Doublet Model (IHDM), taking into account previous limits from Higgs searches at LEP, the Tevatron and the LHC as well as constraints from unitarity, vacuum stability and electroweak precision tests. We show that the charged Higgs contributions can interfere constructively or destructively with the W gauge bosons loops leading to enhancement or suppression of the di-photon rate with respect to SM rate. We show also that the invisible decay of the Higgs, if open, could affect the total width of the SM Higgs boson and therefore suppress the di-photon rate.Comment: 15 pages, added reference

A Spallation Model for the Titanium-rich Supernova Remnant Cassiopeia A

Titanium-rich subluminous supernovae are rare and challenge current SN nucleosynthesis models. We present a model in which ejecta from a standard Supernova is impacted by a second explosion of the neutron star (a Quark-nova), resulting in spallation reactions that lead to 56Ni destruction and 44Ti creation under the right conditions. Basic calculations of the spallation products shows that a delay between the two explosions of ~ 5 days reproduces the observed abundance of 44Ti in Cas A and explains its low luminosity as a result of the destruction of 56Ni. Our results could have important implications for lightcurves of subluminous as well as superluminous supernovae.Comment: Accepted/to be published in Physical Review Letters. [ for more info on the Quark Nova, see: http://quarknova.ucalgary.ca/

Predicting Solid-State Heats of Formation of Newly Synthesized Polynitrogen Materials by Using Quantum Mechanical Calculations

We present density functional theory level predictions and analysis of the basic properties of newly synthesized high-nitrogen compounds together with 3,6-bis(2H-tetrazol-5-yl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine (BTT) and 3,3′-azobis(6-amino-1,2,4,5-tetrazine) (DAAT), for which experimental data are available. The newly synthesized high-nitrogen compounds are based on tricycle fused 1,2,4-triazine and 1,2,4,5-tetrazine heterocycles. In this work, the molecules BTT and DAAT have been studied in order to validate the theoretical approach and to facilitate further progress developments for the molecules of interest. Molecular structural properties are clarified, and IR spectra predictions are provided to help detection of those compounds in the experiment. The energy content of the molecules in the gas phase is evaluated by calculating standard enthalpies of formation, by using a special selection of isodesmic reaction paths. We also include estimates of the condensed-phase heats of formation and heats of sublimation in the framework of the Politzer approach. The obtained properties are consistent with those new high-nitrogen compounds being a promising set of advanced energetic materials

Using BIM to achieve Architectural Engineering undergraduate learning outcomes

Building Information Modelling is a process integrating 3D graphics and data. It is being adopted into the AECOO industries and by default into the delivery of undergraduate Architectural Programs. This object approach offers a range of benefits over the more traditional CAD approach that uses lines and arcs and manual techniques, by adding the third dimension and creating a database model. It redefines the ways of thinking and working for students and future architects and architectural engineers. The requirements of architectural programs are defined through their learning objectives to meet professional requirements such as those set by the ARB and the RIBA. This paper aims to investigate how the capabilities of BIM can be utilized to deliver the requirements of undergraduate architectural engineering programs in a more effective manner. . Purpose: to further develop an implementation strategy for BIM in the undergraduate program of architectural engineering that helps in achieving the learning outcomes. Design/Methodology/Approach: In order to ensure transparency and reliability in the formulated solutions, the adopted methodology for this research is the design science since it deals with explicit problems and provides solutions by creating an artifact. The design science method also provides validation for the proposed solution by peer assessment. At the educational level, the study explores the undergraduate curriculum by taking case studies of programs and their learning outcomes that are set under the criteria of ARB and RIBA. The research analyzes these case studies in an attempt to detect the problems and define the requirements to solve the gaps. Findings: The findings of the literature review identify the gaps that exist in the curriculum of the undergraduate architecture programs in the UK. The methodology is designed to develop a framework that acts as a guideline in implementing BIM in education. This paper sets the parameters for tutors to integrate BIM effectively into architectural undergraduate programs which shall promote the development of undergraduate students. Originality/Value: The adoption of BIM within the architectural curriculum has been partial or immature up till this time. This paper addresses the effective implementation of BIM within the undergraduate programs which shall act as an original guideline that can aid professional institutions

Enhancement of chemotherapy using oncolytic virotherapy: Mathematical and optimal control analysis

Oncolytic virotherapy (OV) has been emerging as a promising novel cancer treatment that may be further combined with the existing therapeutic modalities to enhance their effects. To investigate how OV could enhance chemotherapy, we propose an ODE based model describing the interactions between tumour cells, the immune response, and a treatment combination with chemotherapy and oncolytic viruses. Stability analysis of the model with constant chemotherapy treatment rates shows that without any form of treatment, a tumour would grow to its maximum size. It also demonstrates that chemotherapy alone is capable of clearing tumour cells provided that the drug efficacy is greater than the intrinsic tumour growth rate. Furthermore, OV alone may not be able to clear tumour cells from body tissue but would rather enhance chemotherapy if viruses with high viral potency are used. To assess the combined effect of OV and chemotherapy we use the forward sensitivity index to perform a sensitivity analysis, with respect to chemotherapy key parameters, of the virus basic reproductive number and the tumour endemic equilibrium. The results from this sensitivity analysis indicate the existence of a critical dose of chemotherapy above which no further significant reduction in the tumour population can be observed. Numerical simulations show that a successful combinational therapy of the chemotherapeutic drugs and viruses depends mostly on the virus burst size, infection rate, and the amount of drugs supplied. Optimal control analysis was performed, by means of Pontryagin's principle, to further refine predictions of the model with constant treatment rates by accounting for the treatment costs and sides effects.Comment: This is a preprint of a paper whose final and definite form is with 'Mathematical Biosciences and Engineering', ISSN 1551-0018 (print), ISSN 1547-1063 (online), available at [http://www.aimsciences.org/journal/1551-0018]. Submitted 27-March-2018; revised 04-July-2018; accepted for publication 10-July-201

Quark deconfinement in neutron star cores: The effects of spin-down

We study the role of spin-down in driving quark deconfinement in the high density core of isolated neutron stars. Assuming spin-down to be solely due to magnetic braking, we obtain typical timescales to quark deconfinement for neutron stars that are born with Keplerian frequencies. Employing different equations of state (EOS), we determine the minimum and maximum neutron star masses that will allow for deconfinement via spin-down only. We find that the time to reach deconfinement is strongly dependent on the magnetic field and that this time is least for EOS that support the largest minimum mass at zero spin, unless rotational effects on stellar structure are large. For a fiducial critical density of $5\rho_0$ for the transition to the quark phase ($\rho_0=2.5\times10^{14}$g/cm$^3$ is the saturation density of nuclear matter), we find that neutron stars lighter than $1.5M_{\odot}$ cannot reach a deconfined phase. Depending on the EOS, neutron stars of more than $1.5M_{\odot}$ can enter a quark phase only if they are spinning faster than about 3 milliseconds as observed now, whereas larger spin periods imply that they are either already quark stars or will never become one.Comment: 4 pages, 4 figures, submitted to ApJ

Effect of tillage practices on the soil carbon dioxide flux during fall and spring seasons in a Mediterranean Vertisol

In this study, we assessed the effect of conventional tillage (CT), reduced (RT) and no tillage (NT) practices on the soil CO2 flux of a Mediterranean Vertisol in semi-arid Morocco. The measurements focused on the short term (0 to 96 h) soil CO2 fluxes measured directly after tillage during the fall and spring period. Soil temperature, moisture and soil strength were measured congruently to study their effect on the soil CO2 flux magnitude. Immediately after fall tillage, the CT showed the highest CO2 flux (4.9 g m-2 h-1); RT exhibited an intermediate value (2.1 g m-2 h-1) whereas the lowest flux (0.7 g m-2 h-1) was reported under NT. After spring tillage, similar but smaller impacts of the tillage practices on soil CO2 flux were reported with fluxes ranging from 1.8 g CO2 m-2 h-1 (CT) to less than 0.1 g CO2 m-2 h-1 (NT). Soil strength was significantly correlated with soil CO2 emission; whereas surface soil temperature and moisture were low correlated to the soil CO2 flux. The intensity of rainfall events before fall and spring tillage practices could explain the seasonal CO2 flux trends. The findings promote conservation tillage and more specifically no tillage practices to reduce CO2 losses within these Mediterranean agroecosystems. (Résumé d'auteur

Characterisation of fuel volatile compounds using a new ionic microsensor

International audienceThe "Intermal combustion engines" project of the DIVA (Diagnostique Industriel et Vehicules Avances) [Industrial Diagnostics and Advanced Vehicle) research centre, funded by Region Picardie, aims to develop a real-time system capable of modifying the operating parameters of a diesel engine so as to optimise its pollutant emissions and fuel consumption