Asymptotic model for shape resonance control of diatomics by intense non-resonant light: universality in the single-channel approximation

Non-resonant light interacting with diatomics via the polarizability anisotropy couples different rotational states and may lead to strong hybridization of the motion. The modification of shape resonances and low-energy scattering states due to this interaction can be fully captured by an asymptotic model, based on the long-range properties of the scattering (Crubellier et al 2015 New J. Phys. 17 045020). Remarkably, the properties of the field-dressed shape resonances in this asymptotic multi-channel description are found to be approximately linear in the field intensity up to fairly large intensity. This suggests a perturbative single-channel approach to be sufficient to study the control of such resonances by the non-resonant field. The multi-channel results furthermore indicate the dependence on field intensity to present, at least approximately, universal characteristics. Here we combine the nodal line technique to solve the asymptotic Schrödinger equation with perturbation theory. Comparing our single channel results to those obtained with the full interaction potential, we find nodal lines depending only on the field-free scattering length of the diatom to yield an approximate but universal description of the field-dressed molecule, confirming universal behavior.

LASER-TESTING RIG : Measurement System for evaluation of Shape of concentrating reflector for solar collector Absolicon X10

This Thesis project is a part of the all-round automation of production of concentrating solar PV/T systems Absolicon X10. ABSOLICON Solar Concentrator AB has been invented and started production of the prospective solar concentrated system Absolicon X10. The aims of this Thesis project are designing, assembling, calibrating and putting in operation the automatic measurement system intended to evaluate the shape of concentrating parabolic reflectors.On the basis of the requirements of the company administration and needs of real production process the operation conditions for the Laser testing rig were formulated. The basic concept to use laser radiation was defined.At the first step, the complex design of the whole system was made and division on the parts was defined. After the preliminary conducted simulations the function and operation conditions of the all parts were formulated.At the next steps, the detailed design of all the parts was conducted. Most components were ordered from respective companies. Some of the mechanical components were made in the workshop of the company. All parts of the Laser-testing rig were assembled and tested. Software part, which controls the Laser-testing rig work, was created on the LabVIEW basis. To tune and test software part the special simulator was designed and assembled.When all parts were assembled in the complete system, the Laser-testing rig was tested, calibrated and tuned.In the workshop of Absolicon AB, the trial measurements were conducted and Laser-testing rig was installed in the production line at the plant in Soleftea.

Small relief shape variations influence spatial variability of soil chemical attributes

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Effect of curing regime on the cytotoxicity of resin-modified glass-ionomer lining cements applied to an odontoblast-cell line

Objective: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of resin-modified glass-ionomer lining cements submitted to different curing regimes and applied to an immortalized odontoblast-cell line (MDPC-23). Methods: Forty round-shaped specimens of each experimental material (Fuji Lining LC and Vitrebond) were prepared. They were light-cured for the manufacturers' recommended time (MRT = 30 s), under-cured (0.5 MRT = 15 s), over-cured (1.5 MRT = 45 s) or allowed to dark cure (0 MRT). Sterilized filter papers soaked with either 5 μL of PBS or HEMA were used as negative and positive control, respectively. After placing the specimens individually in wells of 24-well dishes, odontoblast-like cells MDPC-23 (30,000 cells/cm2) were plated in each well and incubated for 72 h in a humidified incubator at 37 °C with 5% CO2 and 95% air. The cytotoxicity was evaluated by the cell metabolism (MTT assay) and cell morphology (SEM). Results: Fuji Lining LC was less cytotoxic than Vitrebond (p < 0.05) in all the experimental conditions. However, the cytotoxicity of Fuji Lining LC was noticeably increased in the absence of light-curing while the same was not observed for Vitrebond. The length of light-curing (15, 30 or 45 s) did not influence the toxicity of both lining materials when they were applied on the odontoblast-cell line MDPC-23. Significance: The light-activation plays an important role in reducing the cytotoxicity of Fuji Lining LC. Following the manufacturer' recommendation regarding the light-curing regime may prevent toxic effect to the pulp cells. © 2005 Academy of Dental Materials.

Body size and allometric shape variation in the molly Poecilia vivipara along a gradient of salinity and predation

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Compact and autonomous multiwavelength microanalyzer for in-line and in situ colorimetric determinations

Nowadays, the attainment of microsystems that integrate most of the stages involved in an analytical process has raised an enormous interest in several research fields. This approach provides experimental set-ups of increased robustness and reliability, which simplify their application to in-line and continuous biomedical and environmental monitoring. In this work, a novel, compact and autonomous microanalyzer aimed at multiwavelength colorimetric determinations is presented. It integrates the microfluidics (a three-dimensional mixer and a 25 mm length "Z-shape" optical flow-cell), a highly versatile multiwavelength optical detection system and the associated electronics for signal processing and drive, all in the same device. The flexibility provided by its design allows the microanalyzer to be operated either in single fixed mode to provide a dedicated photometer or in multiple wavelength mode to obtain discrete pseudospectra. To increase its reliability, automate its operation and allow it to work under unattended conditions, a multicommutation sub-system was developed and integrated with the experimental set-up. The device was initially evaluated in the absence of chemical reactions using four acidochromic dyes and later applied to determine some key environmental parameters such as phenol index, chromium(VI) and nitrite ions. Results were comparable with those obtained with commercial instrumentation and allowed to demonstrate the versatility of the proposed microanalyzer as an autonomous and portable device able to be applied to other analytical methodologies based on colorimetric determinations.

Facilitatory effects of an auditory warning stimulus in a visual location identification task and a visual shape identification task

The occurrence of a weak auditory warning stimulus increases the speed of the response to a subsequent visual target stimulus that must be identified. This facilitatory effect has been attributed to the temporal expectancy automatically induced by the warning stimulus. It has not been determined whether this results from a modulation of the stimulus identification process, the response selection process or both. The present study examined these possibilities. A group of 12 young adults performed a reaction time location identification task and another group of 12 young adults performed a reaction time shape identification task. A visual target stimulus was presented 1850 to 2350 ms plus a fixed interval (50, 100, 200, 400, 800, or 1600 ms, depending on the block) after the appearance of a fixation point, on its left or right side, above or below a virtual horizontal line passing through it. In half of the trials, a weak auditory warning stimulus (S1) appeared 50, 100, 200, 400, 800, or 1600 ms (according to the block) before the target stimulus (S2). Twelve trials were run for each condition. The S1 produced a facilitatory effect for the 200, 400, 800, and 1600 ms stimulus onset asynchronies (SOA) in the case of the side stimulus-response (S-R) corresponding condition, and for the 100 and 400 ms SOA in the case of the side S-R non-corresponding condition. Since these two conditions differ mainly by their response selection requirements, it is reasonable to conclude that automatic temporal expectancy influences the response selection process.

In-situ Messung großer Hydrometeore mit Hilfe der In-line-Holographie

In-situ Messung großer Hydrometeore mit Hilfe derIn-line-Holographie Diese Dissertation beschreibt die Entwicklung und Erprobungeiner Apparatur zur holographischen In-situ-Messung großerHydrometeore (HODAR). Dazu wird eine dreidimensionaleMomentaufnahme eines etwa 500 dm³ großes Meßvolumen derfreien Atmosphäre mittels der In-line-Holographieaufgezeichnet. In dieser Aufnahme kann die Größe und Formeinzelner Hydrometeore, aber auch ihre Position imMeßvolumen ausgemessen werden. Daraus sind Größen- undAbstandsverteilungen der Hydrometeore zu bestimmen. MitHilfe von Doppelbelichtungen lassen sich zusätzlich auchihre Geschwindigkeiten ermitteln.Im Verlauf dieser Arbeit werden zunächst die Hydrometeorevorgestellt. Die theoretischen Möglichkeiten einer Apparaturzur In-situ-Messung werden aus den Eigenschaften desholographischen Bildes entwickelt. Anschließend wird derverwirklichte Aufbau des HODAR erläutert. Kalibrierung undTest, sowie Messungen, die die Fähigkeiten des HODAR unterBeweis stellen, werden beschrieben.

The new bern PET cyclotron, its research beam line, and the development of an innovative beam monitor detector

The new Bern cyclotron laboratory aims at industrial radioisotope production for PET diagnostics and multidisciplinary research by means of a specifically conceived beam transfer line, terminated in a separate bunker. In this framework, an innovative beam monitor detector based on doped silica and optical fibres has been designed, constructed, and tested. Scintillation light produced by Ce and Sb doped silica fibres moving across the beam is measured, giving information on beam position, shape, and intensity. The doped fibres are coupled to commercial optical fibres, allowing the read-out of the signal far away from the radiation source. This general-purpose device can be easily adapted for any accelerator used in medical applications and is suitable either for low currents used in hadrontherapy or for currents up to a few μA for radioisotope production, as well as for both pulsed and continuous beams.

Lateral impact sensor for measuring firmness of fruits in an experimental packing line.

Different parameters are used to quantify the maturity of fruits at or near harvest (shape, color, flesh texture and internal composition). Flesh firmness is a critical handling parameter for fruits such as peach, pear and apple. Results of previous studies conducted by different researchers have shown that impact techniques can be used to evaluate firmness of fruits. A prototype impact system for firmness sorting of fruits was developed by Chen and Ruiz-Altisent (Chen et al, 1996). This sensor was mounted and tested successfully on a 3 m section of a commercial conveyor belt (Chen et al, 1998). This is a further development of the on-line impact system for firmness sorting of fruits. The design of the sensor has been improved and it has been mounted on a experimental fruit packing line (Ortiz-Cañavate et al 1999).

Mapping and Introgression of QTL Involved in Fruit Shape Transgressive Segregation into 'Piel de Sapo' Melon (Cucumis melo L.)

A mapping F2 population from the cross ‘Piel de Sapo’ × PI124112 was selectively genotyped to study the genetic control of morphological fruit traits by QTL (Quantitative Trait Loci) analysis. Ten QTL were identified, five for FL (Fruit Length), two for FD (Fruit Diameter) and three for FS (Fruit Shape). At least one robust QTL per character was found, flqs8.1 (LOD = 16.85, R2 = 34%), fdqs12.1 (LOD = 3.47, R2 = 11%) and fsqs8.1 (LOD = 14.85, R2 = 41%). flqs2.1 and fsqs2.1 cosegregate with gene a (andromonoecious), responsible for flower sex determination and with pleiotropic effects on FS. They display a positive additive effect (a) value, so the PI124112 allele causes an increase in FL and FS, producing more elongated fruits. Conversely, the negative a value for flqs8.1 and fsqs8.1 indicates a decrease in FL and FS, what results in rounder fruits, even if PI124112 produces very elongated melons. This is explained by a significant epistatic interaction between fsqs2.1 and fsqs8.1, where the effects of the alleles at locus a are attenuated by the additive PI124112 allele at fsqs8.1. Roundest fruits are produced by homozygous for PI124112 at fsqs8.1 that do not carry any dominant A allele at locus a (PiPiaa). A significant interaction between fsqs8.1 and fsqs12.1 was also detected, with the alleles at fsqs12.1 producing more elongated fruits. fsqs8.1 seems to be allelic to QTL discovered in other populations where the exotic alleles produce elongated fruits. This model has been validated in assays with backcross lines along 3 years and ultimately obtaining a fsqs8.1-NIL (Near Isogenic Line) in ‘Piel de Sapo’ background which yields round melons.

NURBS-Based Geometry Parameterization for Aerodynamic Shape Optimization

La motivación de esta tesis es el desarrollo de una herramienta de optimización automática para la mejora del rendimiento de formas aerodinámicas enfocado en la industria aeronáutica. Este trabajo cubre varios aspectos esenciales, desde el empleo de Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines (NURBS), al cálculo de gradientes utilizando la metodología del adjunto continuo, el uso de b-splines volumétricas como parámetros de diseño, el tratamiento de la malla en las intersecciones, y no menos importante, la adaptación de los algoritmos de la dinámica de fluidos computacional (CFD) en arquitecturas hardware de alto paralelismo, como las tarjetas gráficas, para acelerar el proceso de optimización. La metodología adjunta ha posibilitado que los métodos de optimización basados en gradientes sean una alternativa prometedora para la mejora de la eficiencia aerodinámica de los aviones. La formulación del adjunto permite calcular los gradientes de una función de coste, como la resistencia aerodinámica o la sustentación, independientemente del número de variables de diseño, a un coste computacional equivalente a una simulación CFD. Sin embargo, existen problemas prácticos que han imposibilitado su aplicación en la industria, que se pueden resumir en: integrabilidad, rendimiento computacional y robustez de la solución adjunta. Este trabajo aborda estas contrariedades y las analiza en casos prácticos. Como resumen, las contribuciones de esta tesis son: • El uso de NURBS como variables de diseño en un bucle de automático de optimización, aplicado a la mejora del rendimiento aerodinámico de alas en régimen transónico. • El desarrollo de algoritmos de inversión de punto, para calcular las coordenadas paramétricas de las coordenadas espaciales, para ligar los vértices de malla a las NURBS. • El uso y validación de la formulación adjunta para el calculo de los gradientes, a partir de las sensibilidades de la solución adjunta, comparado con diferencias finitas. • Se ofrece una estrategia para utilizar la geometría CAD, en forma de parches NURBS, para tratar las intersecciones, como el ala-fuselaje. • No existen muchas alternativas de librerías NURBS viables. En este trabajo se ha desarrollado una librería, DOMINO NURBS, y se ofrece a la comunidad como código libre y abierto. • También se ha implementado un código CFD en tarjeta gráfica, para realizar una valoración de cómo se puede adaptar un código sobre malla no estructurada a arquitecturas paralelas. • Finalmente, se propone una metodología, basada en la función de Green, como una forma eficiente de paralelizar simulaciones numéricas. Esta tesis ha sido apoyada por las actividades realizadas por el Área de Dinámica da Fluidos del Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aeroespacial (INTA), a través de numerosos proyectos de financiación nacional: DOMINO, SIMUMAT, y CORESFMULAERO. También ha estado en consonancia con las actividades realizadas por el departamento de Métodos y Herramientas de Airbus España y con el grupo Investigación y Tecnología Aeronáutica Europeo (GARTEUR), AG/52. ABSTRACT The motivation of this work is the development of an automatic optimization strategy for large scale shape optimization problems that arise in the aeronautics industry to improve the aerodynamic performance; covering several aspects from the use of Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines (NURBS), the calculation of the gradients with the continuous adjoint formulation, the development of volumetric b-splines parameterization, mesh adaptation and intersection handling, to the adaptation of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) algorithms to take advantage of highly parallel architectures in order to speed up the optimization process. With the development of the adjoint formulation, gradient-based methods for aerodynamic optimization become a promising approach to improve the aerodynamic performance of aircraft designs. The adjoint methodology allows the evaluation the gradients to all design variables of a cost function, such as drag or lift, at the equivalent cost of more or less one CFD simulation. However, some practical problems have been delaying its full implementation to the industry, which can be summarized as: integrability, computer performance, and adjoint robustness. This work tackles some of these issues and analyse them in well-known test cases. As summary, the contributions comprises: • The employment of NURBS as design variables in an automatic optimization loop for the improvement of the aerodynamic performance of aircraft wings in transonic regimen. • The development of point inversion algorithms to calculate the NURBS parametric coordinates from the space coordinates, to link with the computational grid vertex. • The use and validation of the adjoint formulation to calculate the gradients from the surface sensitivities in an automatic optimization loop and evaluate its reliability, compared with finite differences. • This work proposes some algorithms that take advantage of the underlying CAD geometry description, in the form of NURBS patches, to handle intersections and mesh adaptations. • There are not many usable libraries for NURBS available. In this work an open source library DOMINO NURBS has been developed and is offered to the community as free, open source code. • The implementation of a transonic CFD solver from scratch in a graphic card, for an assessment of the implementability of conventional CFD solvers for unstructured grids to highly parallel architectures. • Finally, this research proposes the use of the Green's function as an efficient paralellization scheme of numerical solvers. The presented work has been supported by the activities carried out at the Fluid Dynamics branch of the National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA) through national founding research projects: DOMINO, SIMUMAT, and CORESIMULAERO; in line with the activities carried out by the Methods and Tools and Flight Physics department at Airbus and the Group for Aeronautical Research and Technology in Europe (GARTEUR) action group AG/52.

State Social Safety Net Programs and the Great Recession: The First Line of Defense and the Last Resort for the Economically Disadvantaged

Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Washington, 2016-06

Auto-solitons guided by in-line nonlinear optical loop mirrors in dispersion-managed communication systems

Summary form only given. Both dispersion management and the use of a nonlinear optical loop mirror (NOLM) as a saturable absorber can improve the performance of a soliton-based communication system. Dispersion management gives the benefits of low average dispersion while allowing pulses with higher powers to propagate, which helps to suppress Gordon-Haus timing jitter without sacrificing the signal-to-noise ratio. The NOLM suppresses the buildup of amplifier spontaneous emission noise and background dispersive radiation which, if allowed to interact with the soliton, can lead to its breakup. We examine optical pulse propagation in dispersion-managed (DM) transmission system with periodically inserted in-line NOLMs. To describe basic features of the signal transmission in such lines, we develop a simple theory based on a variational approach involving Gaussian trial functions. It, has already been proved that the variational method is an extremely effective tool for description of DM solitons. In the work we manage to include in the variational description the point action of the NOLM on pulse parameters, assuming that the Gaussian pulse shape is inherently preserved by propagation through the NOLM. The obtained results are verified by direct numerical simulations