bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear stability analysis of a shear layer induced by differential coaxial rotation within a cylindrical enclosure
Authors: Vo Tony , Montabone Luca , Sheard Gregory J.
Published: December 2013

The generation of distinct polygonal configurations via the instability of a Stewartson shear layer is numerically investigated. The shear layer is induced using a rotating cylindrical tank with differentially forced disks located at the top and bottom boundaries. The incompressible Navier–Stokes equations are solved on a two-dimensional semi-meridional plane. Axisymmetric base flows are consistently found to reach a steady state for a wide range of flow conditions, and details of the vertical structure are revealed. An axially invariant two-dimensional flow is ascertained for small $\vert \mathit{Ro}\vert $, which substantiates the Taylor–Proudman theorem. Sufficient increases in $\vert \mathit{Ro}\vert $ forcing develops flow features that break this quasi-two-dimensionality. The onset of this breaking occurs earlier with increasing $\vert \mathit{Ro}\vert $ for $\mathit{Ro}\gt 0$ compared with $\mathit{Ro}\lt 0$. The thickness scaling of the vertical Stewartson layers are in agreement with previous analytical results. Growth rates of the most unstable azimuthal wavenumber from a global linear stability analysis are obtained. The threshold between axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric flow follows a power law, and both positive- and negative-$\mathit{Ro}$ regimes are found to adopt the same threshold for instability, namely $\vert \mathit{Ro}\vert \geq 18. 1{E}^{0. 767} $. This relationship corresponds to a constant critical internal Reynolds number of ${\mathit{Re}}_{i, c} \simeq 22. 5$. A review of reported critical internal Reynolds number and their characteristic length scales yields a consistent instability onset given by $\vert \mathit{Ro}\vert / {E}^{3/ 4} = 15. 4{\unicode{x2013}} 16. 6$; here we find $\vert \mathit{Ro}\vert / {E}^{3/ 4} = 15. 8$. At the onset of linear instability, the initially circular shear layer deforms, resulting in a polygonal structure consistent with barotropic instability. Dominant azimuthal wavenumbers range from $3$ to $7$ at the onset of instability for the parameter space explored. Empirical relationships for the preferential wavenumber have been obtained. Additional instability modes have been discovered that favour higher wavenumbers, and these exhibit structures localized to the disk–tank interfaces.
Geostrophic adjustment in a closed basin with islands
Authors: Johnson E. R. , Grimshaw R. H. J.
Published: December 2013

We consider the geostrophic adjustment of a density-stratified fluid in a basin of constant depth on an $f$-plane in the context of linearized theory. For a single vertical mode, the equations are equivalent to those for a linearized shallow-water theory for a homogeneous fluid. Associated with any initial state there is a unique steady geostrophically adjusted component of the flow compatible with the initial conditions. This steady component gives the time average of the flow and is analogous to the adjusted flow in an unbounded domain without islands. The remainder of the response consists of superinertial Poincaré and subinertial Kelvin wave modes and expressions for the energy partition between the modes in arbitrary basins again follow directly from the initial conditions. The solution for an arbitrary initial density distribution released from rest in a circular domain is found in closed form. When the Rossby radius is much smaller than the basin radius, appropriate for the baroclinic modes, the interior adjusted solution is close to that of the initial state, except for small-amplitude trapped Poincaré waves, while Kelvin waves propagate around the boundaries, carrying, without change of form, the deviation of the initial height field from its average.
Medical Officers, Bodies, Gender and Weight Fluctuation in Irish Convict Prisons, 1877–95
Authors: Breathnach Ciara
Published: December 2013

This article focuses on the function of the convict prison infirmary and views it as a site of arbitration, resistance and ‘contested power’. In accordance with the rules and regulations periods of incarceration in convict prisons began and ended with an obligatory medical examination. While the primary function of the initial test was to measure the convict body in order ascertain physical ability to conduct hard labour it also provided a thorough bio-metrical description for future identification purposes. The final examination was not as comprehensively undertaken but also concerned itself with anthropometrical observations. It would be reasonable to assume that the balance of power was weighted in the authority’s favour but this research has found evidence to the contrary. For instance, that there was a fair degree of physiological knowledge within the convict population and that some convicts used the infirmary for dietary gains and reprieve from hard labour. Using body mass index (BMI) as an instrument to measure physical wellbeing this article views the doctor–convict interface as a crucial component of the penal experience. It analyses 251 convict medical records to show that the balance of diet and work led to what might be considered a counterintuitive outcome – a preponderance of weight gain, particularly for males in Irish prisons.
(Un)healthy Relationships: African Labourers, Profits and Health Services in Angola’s Colonial-Era Diamond Mines, 1917–75
Authors: Varanda Jorge , Cleveland Todd
Published: December 2013

The Companhia de Diamantes de Angola, or Diamang, mined for diamonds in colonial Angola from 1917 until independence in 1975. The enterprise’s Health Services Division (SSD) was responsible for supplying mine managers with an African labour force comprised of healthy, and therefore productive, employees. In practice, though, this otherwise ‘healthy’ system did not always work. While SSD personnel attempted to fulfil their charge by implementing a series of screening measures, production targets and a scarcely-populated regional labour pool regularly prompted senior officials to compel the SSD to clear recruits who were otherwise unfit for mine service. Drawing upon interviews with former SSD staff and African labourers, as well as company and colonial archival sources, this article focuses on the interplay over time between the SSD, the company’s production demands and these labourers.
Efficiency of marker-assisted selection for ascochyta blight in chickpea
Authors: CASTRO P. , RUBIO J. , MADRID E. , FERNÁNDEZ-ROMERO M. D. , MILLÁN T. , GIL J.
Published: December 2013

The extent to which markers have been used in chickpea breeding programmes has not been clearly determined. In the current study, phenotypic and marker-assisted selection (MAS) were employed to select blight resistant genotypes, comparing the effectiveness of both methods. The phenotypic evaluation showed that the resistance could be recessive in the material employed. However, the high distorted segregation towards the susceptible parent detected on linkage group four (LG4) could also explain the phenotype distribution of resistance. Phenotypic selection in F2:4and F2:5generations lead to an increase in the frequency of the allele associated with the resistance of the markers CaETR and GAA47, indicating the usefulness of these markers for MAS. The markers TA72 and SCY17 could be also useful for MAS but the high distorted segregation towards the susceptible parent in the region where these markers are located could explain their low effectiveness. The costs associated with phenotypic selection and MAS for ascochyta blight resistance during three cycles of selection are presented in the current study, showing that MAS was more expensive than phenotypic selection. Nevertheless, the use of markers reduced the time taken to select resistant lines. The markers analysed in the current study were useful to select genotypes resistant to ascochyta blight in chickpea breeding programmes, allowing pyramiding genes or quantitative trait loci (QTL) related to different pathotypes. It is recommended that MAS should be employed in early generations of chickpea breeding programmes for the four QTL analysed because this makes it possible to develop populations with a high frequency of the favourable alleles conferring resistance to blight.
Durum wheat in-field monitoring and early-yield prediction: assessment of potential use of high resolution satellite imagery in a hilly area of Tuscany, Central Italy
Authors: DALLA MARTA A. , GRIFONI D. , MANCINI M. , ORLANDO F. , GUASCONI F. , ORLANDINI S.
Published: December 2013

Modern agriculture is based on the control of in-field variability, which is determined by the interactions of numerous factors such as soil, climate and crop. For this reason, the use of remote sensing is becoming increasingly important, thanks to the technological development of satellites able to supply information with high spatial resolution and revisit frequency. Despite the large number of studies on the use of remote sensing for crop monitoring, very few have addressed the problem of spatial variability at field scale or the early prediction of crop yield and grain quality. The aim of the current research was to assess the potential use of high resolution satellite imagery for monitoring durum wheat growth and development, addressing forecast grain yield and protein content, through vegetation indices at two stages of crop development. To best represent the natural variability of agricultural production, the study was conducted in wheat fields managed by local farmers. As regards dry weight, leaf area index and nitrogen (N) content, the possibility of describing the crop state is evident at stem elongation, while at anthesis this potential is completely lost. However, satellites seem to be unable to estimate the N concentration. Aboveground biomass accumulated from emergence to stem elongation is strictly related to the final yield, while it has been confirmed that the crop parameters observed at anthesis are less informative, despite approaching harvesting time.
DOES KNOWLEDGE ABOUT ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY AND MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION AFFECT THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN HIV STATUS AND FERTILITY PREFERENCES AND CONTRACEPTIVE USE? NEW EVIDENCE FROM NIGERIA AND ZAMBIA
Authors: BANKOLE AKINRINOLA , BIDDLECOM ANN E. , DZEKEDZEKE KUMBUTSO , AKINYEMI JOSHUA O. , AWOLUDE OLUTOSIN , ADEWOLE ISAAC F.
Published: December 2013

The increasing availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and drug regimens to prevent mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) has probably changed the context of childbearing for people living with HIV. Using data from 2009–2010 community-based surveys in Nigeria and Zambia, this study explores whether women's knowledge about ART and PMTCT influences the relationship between HIV status and fertility preferences and contraceptive behaviour. The findings show that women living with HIV are more likely to want more children in Nigeria and to want to limit childbearing in Zambia compared with HIV-negative women. While there is no significant difference in contraceptive use by women's HIV status in the two countries, women who did not know their HIV status are less likely to use contraceptives relative to women who are HIV-negative. Knowledge about ART reduces the childbearing desires of HIV-positive women in Nigeria and knowledge about PMTCT increases desire for more children among HIV-positive women in Zambia, as well as contraceptive use among women who do not know their HIV status. The findings indicate that knowledge about HIV prevention and treatment services changes how living with HIV affects childbearing desires and, at least in Zambia, pregnancy prevention, and highlight the importance of access to accurate knowledge about ART and PMTCT services to assist women and men to make informed childbearing decisions. Knowledge about ART and PMTCT should be promoted not only through HIV treatment and maternal and newborn care facilities but also through family planning centres and the mass media.
Le génie littéraire et théologique de Luc en Lc 15.11–32 éclairé par le parallèle avec Mt 21.28–32
Authors: Rastoin Marc
Published: December 2013

The parable of the prodigal son is considered by most commentators to be part of Luke's special tradition (L). Nevertheless some exegetes, struck by its strongly Lucan character, consider it Luke's creation. Another option should be considered – that Luke rewrote a parable that was originally analogous to Matthew 21.28–32. Even if this hypothesis cannot be conclusively proven, it helps heuristically to reveal more fully Luke's literary and theological genius. In line with our increasingly clear conviction that the evangelists were not mere compilers of traditions, this suggestion deserves to be discussed afresh.
(Im)Perfection: Reading Philippians 3.5–6 in Light of the Number Seven
Authors: Still Todd D.
Published: December 2013

Although interpreters of Philippians have observed both the number and the progression of items in Phil 3.5–6, previous scholarship on the letter has failed to recognise that this ‘catalogue of boasting’ consists of preciselysevenitems. As a result, commentators have not attempted to explicate these two verses in light of the ostensible presence and influence of numerical symbolism. This paper offers a fresh reading of Phil 3.5–6 (and surrounding verses) – one that keeps Paul's sevenfold list of his pedigree and performance in Judaism clearly in view. The insights gleaned from the interpretation proffered in this article enable a fuller understanding of this programmatic autobiographical text.
A non-overconstrained variant of the Agile Eye with a special decoupled kinematics
Authors: Kuo Chin-Hsing , Dai Jian S. , Legnani Giovanni
Published: December 2013

A non-overconstrained three-DOF parallel orientation mechanism that is kinematically equivalent to the Agile Eye is presented in this paper. The output link (end-effector) of the mechanism is connected to the base by one spherical joint and by another three identical legs. Each leg comprises of, in turns from base, a revolute joint, a universal joint, and three prismatic joints. The three lower revolute joints are active joints, while all other joints are passive ones. Based on a special configuration, some three projective angles of the end-effector coordinates are fully decoupled with respect to the input actuated joints, that is, by actuating any revolute joint the end-effector rotates in such a way that the corresponding projective angle changes with the same angular displacement. The fully decoupled motion is analyzed geometrically and proved theoretically. Besides, the inverse and direct kinematics solutions of the mechanism are provided based on the geometric reasoning and theoretical proof.
Forced Saving in China
Authors: Eckaus Richard S.
Published: December 2013

The explanation offered here for the high rates of saving in China is that much of the saving has been “forced” in two Benthamite senses. Involuntary saving, the first of Bentham's meanings, includes taxes which finance investment. These have made up more than half of the total savings in China in recent years. There is also forced saving in China in the form of Bentham's second sense, conduced saving, resulting from bank loans which have financed investment. While the existence of a savings glut has been suggested for China, a better characterization would be that it has had a high rate of investment.
Using discards not destined for human consumption
Authors: MANGI STEPHEN C , CATCHPOLE THOMAS L.
Published: December 2013

The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) reforms agreed by European Union (EU) ministers include a discard ban where fishers will be required to land all fish they catch. The ban is expected to reduce the risk of capturing unwanted and low-value biomass species, and therefore should make fishing more environmentally and economically sustainable. The implications of introducing a discards ban may be gauged by assessing the practical and economic issues surrounding whether discards not destined for human consumption can be used once landed. Interviews with company managers established the attitude of the main commercial outlets towards suitability of, and interest in using discards. Results indicate that opportunities for using discards include reduction to fishmeal and fish oil, ensiling, composting, anaerobic digestion with energy recovery, and freezing (prior to use as bait). In the UK, nine main outlets expressed interest in using discards as raw materials to process into animal, pet and aqua feed; organic fertilizer; frozen bait; and other products, such as renewable energy generation. Estimates of discard quantities from English fleets show that most of the outlets are not located close to the main landing ports where the discards would likely come ashore. However, most outlets have extensive established transport links, which would enable them to cover even the remote ports. Preliminary analysis on cost of discarding shows that a discard ban will lead to increases in annual operating costs for fishers ranging from GB£ 1709–90 959 yr−1 (£1 = US$ 1.52, May 2013). Assuming that discards are processed for fishmeal, fetching c. GB£ 130 t−1, then majority of the fishers will make losses in their fishing operations. Such losses could lead fishers to adopt more selective gears in order to avoid catching unwanted species and thereby help conserve the marine environment. Finding potential uses for discards is important in the context of the proposed land-all catch policy under the reformed CFP, but the primary goal of government should be to prevent the capture of unwanted fish.
Development without Decolonisation? Hong Kong's Future and Relations with Britain and China, 1967–1972
Authors: MARK CHI-KWAN
Published: December 2013

At a time when the United Kingdom accelerated decolonisation and slowly embraced Europe, London gradually lost the means and the will to fulfil its responsibilities to Hong Kong up until the expiry of the New Territories Lease in 1997. Although the immediate cause of this pessimistic mind-set was the leftist riots in 1967, the factors underlying despondency in London had to do with developments before 1967, namely Hong Kong's growing economic prosperity and administrative autonomy from London since the late 1950s, and beyond Hong Kong itself, the global implications of Britain's withdrawal from East of Suez and entry into the European Economic Community by the early 1970s. By 1972 the process of the “decolonisation” of Hong Kong was well underway. Although the British deemed the time unsuitable to initiate formal negotiation with the then Chinese government, they were prepared to take “informal soundings” concerning Hong Kong's future when a new pragmatic leadership emerged and before the crisis of confidence ensued nearer 1997.
Legal fictions and the limits of legal language
Authors: Petroski Karen
Published: December 2013

Since Lon Fuller published his 1930 trilogy of essays on the topic, students of the legal fiction have focused on identifying additional examples of fictions or challenging Fuller's classic taxonomy. But Fuller did more in these essays than propose a definition and a classification system; he also argued that legal fictions are examples of a more general phenomenon found in many systems of specialised language usage. Drawing on work done in the intervening decades on related issues outside the law, this paper develops this insight in new directions, seeking to understand in more detail one of Fuller's principal concerns: the points at which legal language stops communicating, points that may shift over time but will never completely disappear. The analysis indicates that the currently prevailing understanding of legal fictions as, in essence, consciously counterfactual propositions is historically contingent and incomplete; that legal writers have generally used the ‘legal fiction’ label to signal those writers' sense of the futility of further justification to a non-legal audience (even when they are using the term in a justification likely to be read only by a legal audience); and, contrary to the assumptions of many post-Fuller theorists, that the boundaries of the legal vocabularies recognised as self-justifying may have become less distinct over the past century.
Natural Prolongation and Delimitation of the Continental Shelf Beyond 200 nm: Implications of the Bangladesh/Myanmar Case
Authors: HUANG Yao , LIAO Xuexia
Published: December 2013

This paper is a response to the latestBangladesh/Myanmarcase decided by the ITLOS on 14 March 2012, which is the first case concerning delimitation of the continental shelf beyond 200 nm. The paper aims to discuss the status and role of natural prolongation in delimiting this area. Natural prolongation constitutes the legal basis for entitlement to the continental shelf beyond 200 nm. Also, natural prolongation should play a role as a relevant circumstance in delimiting the continental shelf beyond 200 nm. To address these two issues, the judgment of theBangladesh/Myanmarcase will also be reviewed. Both the interpretation of the meaning of natural prolongation and its exclusion in the delimitation process are not convincing. Hence, the Judgment's future influence on the continental shelf delimitation is limited.
Cost drivers of inpatient mental health care: a systematic review
Authors: Wolff J. , McCrone P. , Koeser L. , Normann C. , Patel A.
Published: December 2013

Aims.

New reimbursement schemes for inpatient mental health care are imminent in the UK and Germany. The shared intention is to reflect cost differences between patients in reimbursement rates. This requires understanding of patient characteristics that influence hospital resource use. The aim of this review was to show which associations between mental health care per diem hospital costs and patient characteristics are supported by current evidence.

Methods.

A systematic review of the literature published between 1980 and 2012 was carried out. The search strategy included electronic databases and hand-searching. Furthermore, reference lists, citing articles and related publications were screened and experts were contacted.

Results.

The search found eight studies. Dispersion in per diem costs was moderate, as was the ability to explain it with patient characteristics. Six patient characteristics were identified as the most relevant variables. These were (1) age, (2) major diagnostic group, (3) risk, (4) legal problems, (5) the ability to perform activities of daily living and (6) presence of psychotic or affective symptoms. Two non-patient-related factors were identified. These were (1) day of stay and (2) treatment site.

Conclusions.

Idiosyncrasies of mental health care complicated the prediction of per diem hospital costs. More research is required in European settings since transferability of results is unlikely.
The Irritation Scale as an Instrument to Measure Stress among University Students
Authors: Merino-Tejedor Enrique , Boada-Grau Joan , Sánchez-García José C. , Hontangas-Beltrán Pedro Miguel
Published: December 2013

The objective of this study was to verify the factor validity and structure of the “Irritation Scale” in a sample of 578 Spanish university students. At the same time, the study aimed to verify the criterion-related validity of the scale, analyzing the results obtained through correlation with other variables, such as general self-efficacy, self-regulation, depression, and certain personality dimensions. The results obtained through the Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling approach (ESEM) using Mplus confirmed the presence of two factors in the Irritation Scale, as observed in other international studies within a workplace setting. The significant correlations obtained between the Irritation Scale and the variables considered in the study confirmed the construct validity and verified that irritation is significantly and positively associated with depression and academic burnout, and is negatively associated with general self-efficacy and self-regulation.
When the Care Ends: Emotional State of Spanish Bereaved Caregivers of Persons with Dementia
Authors: Crespo María , Piccini Ana T. , Bernaldo-de-Quirós Mónica
Published: December 2013

Several researchers have found that caring for relatives with dementia has negative consequences on the caregiver’s physical and emotional health during the caregiving period. However, less attention has been paid to caregiver´s emotional state after the patient´s death. The aims of this study are 1) to evaluate the emotional state of the Spanish former caregivers after the care recipient death, and 2) to analyze the patient’s death circumstances and their influence in the current emotional state of caregivers. The sample was composed of 50 former caregivers of relatives diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The dependent variables were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory and the Texas Revised Inventory of Grief. Most of the caregivers did not develop a complicated grief or depressive symptoms. However, caregivers are not uniform in their responses to bereavement. Specifically, grief was higher in spouses than in adult child, even after controlling the effect of gender and age. Furthermore, this study provides first evidence of the positive relationship between saying good-bye to the patient and caregivers’ emotional status.
Highly Stable Wideband Microwave Extraction by Synchronizing Widely Tunable Optoelectronic Oscillator with Optical Frequency Comb
Authors: Hou D. , Xie X. P. , Zhang Y. L. , Wu J. T. , Chen Z. Y. , Zhao J. Y.
Published: December 2013

Optical frequency combs (OFCs), based on mode-locked lasers (MLLs), have attracted considerable attention in many fields over recent years. Among the applications of OFCs, one of the most challenging works is the extraction of a highly stable microwave with low phase noise. Many synchronisation schemes have been exploited to synchronise an electronic oscillator with the pulse train from a MLL, helping to extract an ultra-stable microwave. Here, we demonstrate novel wideband microwave extraction from a stable OFC by synchronising a single widely tunable optoelectronic oscillator (OEO) with an OFC at different harmonic frequencies, using an optical phase detection technique. The tunable range of the proposed microwave extraction extends from 2 GHz to 4 GHz and in a long-term synchronisation experiment over 12 hours, the proposed synchronisation scheme provided a rms timing drift of 18 fs and frequency instabilities at 1.2 × 10−15/1 s and 2.2 × 10−18/10000 s.
On-line solid-phase extraction coupled liquid chromatography-ESI-ion trap-mass spectrometry for analysis of abamectin and ivermectin residues in milk
Authors: Cheng Cheanyeh , Liu Liang-Chun
Published: December 2013

The on-line SPE-LC-ESI-ion trap/MS/MS for the simultaneous analysis of residues of the veterinary drugs abamectin and ivermectine in milk using a column-switching technique.
Core-cross-linked micellar nanoparticles from a linear-dendritic prodrug for dual-responsive drug delivery
Authors: Zhang Yu , Xiao Chunsheng , Li Mingqiang , Ding Jianxun , He Chaoliang , Zhuang Xiuli , Chen Xuesi
Published: December 2013

A pH-responsive polymeric prodrug was cross-linked by disulfide formation, and the formed nanoparticles were systematically investigated as a novel drug formulation.
Enhancing the peroxidase activity of cytochrome c by mutation of residue 41: implications for the peroxidase mechanism and cytochrome c release
Authors: Josephs Tracy M. , Morison Ian M. , Day Catherine L. , Wilbanks Sigurd M. , Ledgerwood Elizabeth C.
Published: December 2013

The peroxidase activity of cytochrome c may play a key role in the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondrial intermembrane space in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Induction of the peroxidase activity of cytochrome c is ascribed to partial unfolding and loss of axial co-ordination between the haem Fe and Met80, and is thought to be triggered by interaction of cytochrome c with cardiolipin (diphosphatidylglycerol) in vivo. However, the reaction mechanism for the peroxidase activity of either native or cardiolipin-bound cytochrome c is uncertain. In the present study we analyse the peroxidase activity of human and mouse cytochrome c residue 41 variants and demonstrate that stimulation of peroxidase activity can occur without prior loss of Fe–Met80 co-ordination or partial unfolding. The effects of cardiolipin and mutation of residue 41 are not additive, suggesting that cardiolipin stimulates peroxidase activity by the same mechanism as residue 41 mutation. Consistent with this, mutation of residue 41 did not enhance apoptotic release of cytochrome c from mitochondria. We propose that mutation of residue 41, and interaction with cardiolipin, increase peroxidase activity by altering the 40–57 Ω loop and its hydrogen bond network with the propionate of haem ring A. These changes enhance access of hydrogen peroxide and substrate to the haem.
Cell cytoskeletal conformation under reversible thermal control
Authors: Chang Ting-Ya , Yang Chung-Yao , Liao Kai-Wei , Andrew Yeh J. , Cheng Chao-Min
Published: December 2013

In order to assess the role of cytoskeletal structure in modulating cell surface topography during cell transformation, we investigated cytoskeletal organization of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells at different thermal gradients. Specifically, we examined actin polymerization as a function of temperature in a controlled thermal environment. After applying an increase in temperature of 5 °C, we observed fewer actin filaments in the network, as these molecular polymers depolymerized. Partial stress fibers of MDCK cells could be rearranged, but some of them were disrupted irreversibly after a second thermal treatment, and MDCK cells underwent apoptosis at higher temperatures as well.
Linear relationship between water wetting behavior and microscopic interactions of super-hydrophilic surfaces
Authors: Liu Jian , Wang Chunlei , Guo Pan , Shi Guosheng , Fang Haiping
Published: December 2013

Using molecular dynamics simulations, we show a fine linear relationship between surface energies and microscopic Lennard-Jones parameters of super-hydrophilic surfaces. The linear slope of the super-hydrophilic surfaces is consistent with the linear slope of the super-hydrophobic, hydrophobic, and hydrophilic surfaces where stable water droplets can stand, indicating that there is a universal linear behavior of the surface energies with the water-surface van der Waals interaction that extends from the super-hydrophobic to super-hydrophilic surfaces. Moreover, we find that the linear relationship exists for various substrate types, and the linear slopes of these different types of substrates are dependent on the surface atom density, i.e., higher surface atom densities correspond to larger linear slopes. These results enrich our understanding of water behavior on solid surfaces, especially the water wetting behaviors on uncharged super-hydrophilic metal surfaces.
A novel self-sensing technique for tapping-mode atomic force microscopy
Authors: Ruppert Michael G. , Moheimani S. O. Reza
Published: December 2013

This work proposes a novel self-sensing tapping-mode atomic force microscopy operation utilizing charge measurement. A microcantilever coated with a single piezoelectric layer is simultaneously used for actuation and deflection sensing. The cantilever can be batch fabricated with existing micro electro mechanical system processes. The setup enables the omission of the optical beam deflection technique which is commonly used to measure the cantilever oscillation amplitude. Due to the high amount of capacitive feedthrough in the measured charge signal, a feedforward control technique is employed to increase the dynamic range from less than 1 dB to approximately 35 dB. Experiments show that the conditioned charge signal achieves excellent signal-to-noise ratio and can therefore be used as a feedback signal for atomic force microscopy imaging.
High-energy x-ray diffractometer for nondestructive strain depth profile measurement
Authors: Al-Shorman M. Y. , Jensen T. C. , Gray J. N.
Published: December 2013

We describe a lab-based high-energy x-ray diffraction system and a new approach to nondestructively measuring strain profiles in polycrystalline samples. This technique utilizes the tungsten Kα1 characteristic radiation from a standard industrial x-ray tube. We introduce a simulation model that is used to determine strain values from data collected with this system. Examples of depth profiling are shown for shot peened aluminum and titanium samples. Profiles to 1 mm depth in aluminum and 300 μm depth in titanium with a depth resolution of 20 μm are presented.
Laser wakefield generated X-ray probe for femtosecond time-resolved measurements of ionization states of warm dense aluminum
Authors: Mo M. Z. , Chen Z. , Fourmaux S. , Saraf A. , Otani K. , Kieffer J. C. , Tsui Y. Y. , Ng A. , Fedosejevs R.
Published: December 2013

We have developed a laser wakefield generated X-ray probe to directly measure the temporal evolution of the ionization states in warm dense aluminum by means of absorption spectroscopy. As a promising alternative to the free electron excited X-ray sources, Betatron X-ray radiation, with femtosecond pulse duration, provides a new technique to diagnose femtosecond to picosecond transitions in the atomic structure. The X-ray probe system consists of an adjustable Kirkpatrick-Baez (KB) microscope for focusing the Betatron emission to a small probe spot on the sample being measured, and a flat Potassium Acid Phthalate Bragg crystal spectrometer to measure the transmitted X-ray spectrum in the region of the aluminum K-edge absorption lines. An X-ray focal spot size of around 50 μm was achieved after reflection from the platinum-coated 10-cm-long KB microscope mirrors. Shot to shot positioning stability of the Betatron radiation was measured resulting in an rms shot to shot variation in spatial pointing on the sample of 16 μm. The entire probe setup had a spectral resolution of ∼1.5 eV, a detection bandwidth of ∼24 eV, and an overall photon throughput efficiency of the order of 10−5. Approximately 10 photons were detected by the X-ray CCD per laser shot within the spectrally resolved detection band. Thus, it is expected that hundreds of shots will be required per absorption spectrum to clearly observe the K-shell absorption features expected from the ionization states of the warm dense aluminum.
Review of highly charged heavy ion production with electron cyclotron resonance ion source (invited)
Authors: Nakagawa T.
Published: December 2013

The electron cyclotron resonance ion source (ECRIS) plays an important role in the advancement of heavy ion accelerators and other ion beam applications worldwide, thanks to its remarkable ability to produce a great variety of intense highly charged heavy ion beams. Great efforts over the past decade have led to significant ECRIS performance improvements in both the beam intensity and quality. A number of high-performance ECRISs have been built and are in daily operation or are under construction to meet the continuously increasing demand. In addition, comprehension of the detailed and complex physical processes in high-charge-state ECR plasmas has been enhanced experimentally and theoretically. This review covers and discusses the key components, leading-edge developments, and enhanced ECRIS performance in the production of highly charged heavy ion beams.
Thermal unfolding of barstar and the properties of interfacial water around the unfolded forms
Authors: Pal Somedatta , Bandyopadhyay Sanjoy
Published: December 2013

Identification of the intermediates along the folding-unfolding pathways and probing their interactions with surrounding solvent are two important but relatively unexplored issues in protein folding. In this work, we have carried out atomistic molecular dynamics simulations to study the thermal unfolding of barstar in aqueous solution from its folded native form at two different temperatures (400 K and 450 K). The calculations at 400 K reveal partial unfolding of two α-helices (helix-1 and helix-2) and their interconnecting loop. At 450 K, on the other hand, the entire protein attains an expanded flexible conformation due to disruption of a large fraction of tertiary contacts and breaking of almost all the secondary structures. These two disordered structures obtained at such high temperatures are then studied around room temperature to probe their influence on the properties of surrounding solvent. It is found that though the unfolding of the protein in general leads to increasingly hydrated interface, but new structural motifs with locally dehydrated interface may also form during the structural transition. Additionally, independent of the conformational state of the protein, its influence on surrounding solvent has been found to be restricted to the first hydration layer.
Magnetic and magnetotransport properties of half-metallic CrO2-SnO2 composites
Authors: Fan Yinbo , Wang Fangbiao , Wen Gehui , Li Faming , Zhang Caiping , Zhang Songbo , Ma Hongan , Jia Xiaopeng
Published: December 2013

Half-metallic (CrO2)1−x-(SnO2)x composites were prepared under high temperature and high pressure conditions. The composites are composed of large rod-like CrO2 grains and small SnO2 nanoparticles. The CrO2 in the composites is very pure and its saturation magnetization is very close to the theoretical value. The composition dependence of magnetic and magnetotransport properties of the composites was studied. The coercive force (Hc) and remanence ratio (Mr/Ms) of the composites increase dramatically with increasing SnO2 content x for x > 0.6. This should be due to that the CrO2 grains have been well separated by SnO2 nanoparticles and the magnetic interactions among CrO2 grains become weak when x > 0.6. The resistivity and magnetoresistance at 5 K of the composites increase with increasing x, and the increase quickens up at x = 0.5. When x ≥ 0.5, the (CrO2)1−x-(SnO2)x composites show insulator behavior, and the temperature dependence of the resistivity can be well described by fluctuation-induced tunneling model. But when x ≤ 0.4, the (CrO2)1−x-(SnO2)x composites show insulator-metal transitions, and the transition temperature increases with increasing SnO2 concentration. Below the transition temperature, their resistivity can also be explained by fluctuation-induced tunneling model. The (CrO2)1−x-(SnO2)x composites show greater magnetoresistance than pure CrO2 at low temperature, which is attributed to enhancement of tunneling magnetoresistance by adding of SnO2.
Mid-infrared InAs0.79Sb0.21-based nBn photodetectors with Al0.9Ga0.2As0.1Sb0.9 barrier layers, and comparisons with InAs0.87Sb0.13 p-i-n diodes, both grown on GaAs using interfacial misfit arrays
Authors: Craig A. P. , Marshall A. R. J. , Tian Z.-B. , Krishna S. , Krier A.
Published: December 2013

InAs0.79Sb0.21-based nBn photodetectors were fabricated on a GaAs substrate, using the interfacial misfit array growth mode. Reductions in the dark current density of more than two orders of magnitude at 300 K and more than six orders of magnitude at 200 K were found, in comparison with an InAs0.87Sb0.13 p-i-n diode. At −0.5 V applied bias, the dark currents were found to be diffusion limited above 150 K. Background limited infrared photodetection and  R0A  values in excess of 106 Ωcm2 were observed at 150 K. Spectral response measurements revealed a cut-off wavelength of 5.3 μm at 200 K.
Note: An ion source for alkali metal implantation beneath graphene and hexagonal boron nitride monolayers on transition metals
Authors: de Lima L. H. , Cun H. Y. , Hemmi A. , Kälin T. , Greber T.
Published: December 2013

The construction of an alkali-metal ion source is presented. It allows the acceleration of rubidium ions to an energy that enables the penetration through monolayers of graphene and hexagonal boron nitride. Rb atoms are sublimated from an alkali-metal dispenser. The ionization is obtained by surface ionization and desorption from a hot high work function surface. The ion current is easily controlled by the temperature of ionizer. Scanning Tunneling Microscopy measurements confirm ion implantation.
Avalanche-like vortex penetration driven by pulsed microwave fields in an epitaxial LaSrCuO thin film
Authors: Cuadra-Solís P.-de-J. , Hernandez J. M. , García-Santiago A. , Tejada J. , Vanacken J. , Moshchalkov V. V.
Published: December 2013

Different vortex penetration regimes have been registered in the output voltage signal of a magnetometer when single microwave pulses are applied to an epitaxial overdoped La2−xSrxCuO4 thin film in a perpendicular dc magnetic field. The onset of a significant variation in the sample magnetization which exists below threshold values of temperature, dc magnetic field, and pulse duration is interpreted as an avalanche-type flux penetration. The microwave contribution to the background electric field suggests that the nucleation of this fast vortex motion is of electric origin, which also guarantees the occurrence of vortex instabilities under adiabatic conditions via the enhancement of the flux flow resistivity. Flux creep phenomena and heat transfer effects act as stabilizing factors against the microwave-pulse-induced fast flux diffusion.
Fe-based ferromagnetic microwires enabled meta-composites
Authors: Luo Y. , Peng H. X. , Qin F. X. , Ipatov M. , Zhukova V. , Zhukov A. , Gonzalez J.
Published: December 2013

The microwave properties of polymer-based glass fiber reinforced composites containing amorphous Fe77Si10B10C3 microwires in parallel and orthogonal arrays and their dependencies on external magnetic field have been investigated. Double-negative-index characteristics are confirmed for both wire arrays through the observed transmission window in the 1–7 GHz frequency band. The microwave interaction within inter-wire range is responsible for a multi-peak feature observed in the absorption spectra of the parallel wire array composite when the wire spacing is below 7 mm. We introduce the term of “effective diameter” associated with the microwire domain structure to remedy the discrepancy between the computed and experimentally observed plasma frequency.
Evidence of spin phonon coupling in magnetoelectric NiFe2O4/PMN-PT composite
Authors: Ahlawat Anju , Satapathy S. , Sathe V. G. , Choudhary R. J. , Gupta P. K.
Published: December 2013

The coupling of phonon with spin in strain coupled magnetoelectric NiFe2O4 (NFO)/0.65Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.35PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) composite was investigated by temperature-dependent Raman spectroscopy and magnetic measurements in the range 30–350 °C. Pure NFO shows usual ferromagnetic behaviour in this temperature range while NFO/PMN-PT composite show dramatic change in magnetic moment across ferroelectric transition temperature (Tc ∼ 180 °C) of PMN-PT. The temperature evolution of the Raman spectra for the composite shows significant phonon anomalies in T-site (Fe-O) and O-site (Ni/Fe-O) phonon modes at ferroelectric transition temperature is attributed to spin phonon coupling in NFO/PMN-PT composite. The strain mediated magnetoelectric coupling mechanism in this composite is apparent from the observed spin phonon interaction.
Control of light polarization using optically spin-injected vertical external cavity surface emitting lasers
Authors: Frougier J. , Baili G. , Alouini M. , Sagnes I. , Jaffrès H. , Garnache A. , Deranlot C. , Dolfi D. , George J.-M.
Published: December 2013

We fabricated and characterized an optically pumped (100)-oriented InGaAs/GaAsP multiple quantum well Vertical External Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VECSEL). The structure is designed to allow the integration of a Metal-Tunnel-Junction ferromagnetic spin-injector for future electrical injection. We report here the control at room temperature of the electromagnetic field polarization using optical spin injection in the active medium of the VECSEL. The switching between two highly circular polarization states had been demonstrated using an M-shaped extended cavity in multi-modes lasing. This result witnesses an efficient spin-injection in the active medium of the LASER.
Influence of c-axis orientation and scandium concentration on infrared active modes of magnetron sputtered ScxAl1−xN thin films
Authors: Mayrhofer P. M. , Eisenmenger-Sittner C. , Euchner H. , Bittner A. , Schmid U.
Published: December 2013

Doping of wurtzite aluminium nitride (AlN) with scandium (Sc) significantly enhances the piezoelectric properties of AlN. ScxAl1−xN thin films with different Sc concentrations (x = 0 to 0.15) were deposited by DC reactive magnetron sputtering. Infrared (IR) absorbance spectroscopy was applied to investigate the Sc concentration dependent shift of the IR active modes E1(TO) and A1(TO). These results are compared to ab initio simulations, being in excellent agreement with the experimental findings. In addition, IR spectroscopy is established as an economical and fast method to distinguish between thin films with a high degree of c-axis orientation and those exhibiting mixed orientations.
Violation of Bloch's Law That Specifies Reciprocity of Intensity and Duration with Brief Light Flashes
Authors: Greene Ernest
Published: December 2013

For more than a century researchers have been reporting that the visual impact of a very brief flash is determined by the quantity of photons that the flash delivers. This has been variously described as the Bunsen-Roscoe Law or Bloch's Law, often specified as reciprocity of intensity × duration. Prior research found no evidence for such reciprocity when microsecond-duration flashes from a light-emitting diode array were used to display the major contours of nameable shapes. The present work tested with flash durations ranging up to 100 ms and also found no reciprocity. This departure from classic principles might be due to the specific range of wavelengths of the light-emitting diodes and to a mesopic level of ambient light, which together would preclude activation of rods. The reciprocity of intensity and duration may only be valid with full dark adaptation and very dim flashes that activate rods.
Plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) and perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) as pregnancy and lactation feed for ewes joined at 8 months of age
Authors: Raeside M. C. , Nie Z. N. , Robertson M. , Partington D. L. , Behrendt R.
Published: December 2013

Ewe nutrition during pregnancy and lactation is a key determinant of ewe and lamb performance. A paddock-scale field experiment in western Victoria, Australia, tested the hypothesis that grazing maiden ewes on plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) from mid-pregnancy until lamb weaning (July 2010–January 2011) would increase ewe liveweight and condition score during this period, reduce worm egg counts, and increase lamb liveweights at birth, marking and weaning, relative to tetraploid perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), but that further increases would be achieved by offering a spatially arranged sward of plantain and perennial ryegrass. The experiment tested three treatments: plantain (PL), perennial ryegrass (PR), and a 50 : 50 (by area) spatially separated mixture of perennial ryegrass and plantain (PR + PL). Plots were ~1 ha in size arranged in a randomised complete block design with four replications. The ewes were Coopworth composites joined at 8 months of age. Feed-on-offer levels (kg DM/ha) did not differ (P > 0.05) between treatments, with 2.3–3.0 t DM/ha being available pre-grazing. Twin-bearing ewes had higher (P < 0.05) liveweights when offered PR + PL compared with PR or PL at late-pregnancy and higher (P < 0.05) liveweights than PR but not PL (P > 0.05) at lamb marking. At weaning, single-born lambs were heavier (P < 0.05) on PR than PR + PL, with the PL being intermediate. There were no other significant differences (P > 0.05). This experiment has found that feeding plantain to ewes during pregnancy and lactation, or offering ewes spatially separated mixes of plantain and perennial ryegrass, offers no clear liveweight or worm egg count improvement for ewes and lambs relative to a tetraploid perennial ryegrass under Western Victorian conditions.