Topological phase transition based on the attractive Hubbard model

We theoretically investigate the effect of an attractive on-site interaction on the two-band magnetic Dirac fermion model based on a square lattice system. When the attractive fermion interaction is taken into account by the mean-field approximation, a phase diagram is obtained. It is found that a quantum phase transition from a band insulator state to quantum anomalous Hall state occurs with increased attractive interaction. For an existing quantum anomalous Hall state, the attractive interaction enlarges its nontrivial band gap and makes the topological edge states more localized, which protects the transport of linear-dispersive edge states against finite-size and further disorder effects.Comment: 5 pages, 4 figure

The divergence and convergence of ICSID and non-ICSID arbitration

This thesis is an inquiry into the inherent divergence and emerging convergence of ICSID and non-ICSID arbitration. Based on the argument that investor-State arbitration is an intricate interplay of diverse actors with compatible or disparate interests, this study investigates the substantial divergences between ICSID and non-ICSID arbitration by evaluating the jurisdiction of tribunals, the role of institutions, post-awards remedies and the recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards. It also examines the consequential, but discrepant, impact of the divergences on the safeguarding of State sovereignty, the protection of foreign investors’ rights, the enhancement of legitimacy of investment arbitration and the endorsement of public interests. It further puts forward fair, efficient, accountable and legitimate ways that would tentatively or constructively improve the entire dispute resolution system in the realm of international investment. In scrutinizing the interplay and interaction between ICSID and non-ICSID arbitration, the thesis argues that the symbiosis of ICSID and non-ICSID arbitration creates and maintains a relatively stable environment where a number of factors serve as engines for promoting directly or indirectly the convergence of ICSID and non-ICSID arbitration

An observer-based type-3 fuzzy control for non-holonomic wheeled robots

Non-holonomic wheeled robots (NWR) comprise a type of robotic system; they use wheels for movement and offer several advantages over other types. They are efficient, highly, and maneuverable, making them ideal for factory automation, logistics, transportation, and healthcare. The control of this type of robot is complicated, due to the complexity of modeling, asymmetrical non-holonomic constraints, and unknown perturbations in various applications. Therefore, in this study, a novel type-3 (T3) fuzzy logic system (FLS)-based controller is developed for NWRs. T3-FLSs are employed for modeling, and the modeling errors are considered in stability analysis based on the symmetric Lyapunov function. An observer is designed to detect the error, and its effect is eliminated by a developed terminal sliding mode controller (SMC). The designed technique is used to control a case-study NWR, and the results demonstrate the good accuracy of the developed scheme under non-holonomic constraints, unknown dynamics, and nonlinear disturbances

Functional nanofibrous biomaterials of tailored structures for drug delivery—a critical review

Nanofibrous biomaterials have huge potential for drug delivery, due to their structural features and functions that are similar to the native extracellular matrix (ECM). A wide range of natural and polymeric materials can be employed to produce nanofibrous biomaterials. This review introduces the major natural and synthetic biomaterials for production of nanofibers that are biocompatible and biodegradable. Different technologies and their corresponding advantages and disadvantages for manufacturing nanofibrous biomaterials for drug delivery were also reported. The morphologies and structures of nanofibers can be tailor-designed and processed by carefully selecting suitable biomaterials and fabrication methods, while the functionality of nanofibrous biomaterials can be improved by modifying the surface. The loading and releasing of drug molecules, which play a significant role in the effectiveness of drug delivery, are also surveyed. This review provides insight into the fabrication of functional polymeric nanofibers for drug delivery