Flip-flopping binary black holes.

PubMed

Lousto, Carlos O; Healy, James

2015-04-10

We study binary spinning black holes to display the long term individual spin dynamics. We perform a full numerical simulation starting at an initial proper separation of d≈25M between equal mass holes and evolve them down to merger for nearly 48 orbits, 3 precession cycles, and half of a flip-flop cycle. The simulation lasts for t=20 000M and displays a total change in the orientation of the spin of one of the black holes from an initial alignment with the orbital angular momentum to a complete antialignment after half of a flip-flop cycle. We compare this evolution with an integration of the 3.5 post-Newtonian equations of motion and spin evolution to show that this process continuously flip flops the spin during the lifetime of the binary until merger. We also provide lower order analytic expressions for the maximum flip-flop angle and frequency. We discuss the effects this dynamics may have on spin growth in accreting binaries and on the observational consequences for galactic and supermassive binary black holes.

Collapsing supra-massive magnetars: FRBs, the repeating FRB121102 and GRBs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Patrick Das; Saini, Nidhi

2018-02-01

Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) last for ˜ few milli-seconds and, hence, are likely to arise from the gravitational collapse of supra-massive, spinning neutron stars after they lose the centrifugal support (Falcke & Rezzolla 2014). In this paper, we provide arguments to show that the repeating burst, FRB 121102, can also be modeled in the collapse framework provided the supra-massive object implodes either into a Kerr black hole surrounded by highly magnetized plasma or into a strange quark star. Since the estimated rates of FRBs and SN Ib/c are comparable, we put forward a common progenitor scenario for FRBs and long GRBs in which only those compact remnants entail prompt γ -emission whose kick velocities are almost aligned or anti-aligned with the stellar spin axes. In such a scenario, emission of detectable gravitational radiation and, possibly, of neutrinos are expected to occur during the SN Ib/c explosion as well as, later, at the time of magnetar implosion.

Auto-organisation tridimensionnelle et proprietes optiques de multicouches de boites quantiques d'InAs/InP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levesque, Annie

In this thesis, we study the growth of InAs(P)/InP(001) multilayers and the impact of their structure (spacer layer thickness, surface density, and island size) on the self-organization of the QDs and their optical properties. In particular, we have found a new strategy to obtain a large variety of island sizes and densities by perturbing the growth kinetics. We have also found a simple criterion to control the type of organization obtained. Finally, we have shown that the charge carriers are not transferred efficiently from the WL to the larger QDs and that the excitation of holes to the second heavy-hole levels is the dominant activated process leading to non-radiative recombination. We have shown that the island surface density has a major impact on the 3D organization type obtained, as opposed to the island size. Indeed, we have found that when increasing the H/D ratio between the thickness of the spacer layer H and the lateral distance D between the islands, we obtain a sequential appearance of the different self-organization regimes: vertical alignment, anti-alignment, and germination uncorrelated with the preceding layers. The transition between the aligned and the anti-aligned regimes occurs for a H/D value ranging between 0.3 and 0.4. This result can be generalized to a variety of material combinations (InGaAs/GaAs, Ge/Si and PbSe/PbEuTe). For thin spacer layers of less than 10 nm, the QDs are systematically vertically aligned in multilayers. Since the island size increases from one layer to the next, the strain in the InP barriers increases throughout the multilayer and their crystalline quality deteriorates. Under extreme conditions, we have even observed that some of the upper layers did not form or were incomplete, and that the number of layers that can form depends strongly on the nominal thickness of the spacer layer: one to two for H ≈ 3 nm, two to four for H ≈ 5 nm, and three to five for H ≈ 10 nm. Finally, we have studied the temperature dependence of photoluminescence (PL) spectra from multilayers of InAs/InP quantum dots with thin spacer layers, of nominal thickness ranging between 2.5 and 25 nm and emitting in the 0.6-0.8 eV spectral region. First, the emission from the QDs remains strong at 300 K: the integrated intensity is greater than 20% of the low temperature value. This is due to high energy confinement of charge carriers, which prevents their escape out of the QDs. We have observed that the temperature behavior of the sample luminescence differs as a function of the spectral range of emission. When the QDs emit at energies situated between 0.7 and 0.85 eV, the temperature induced redshift of the luminescence is close to that expected for a single QD. However, if a significant part of the spectrum lies at energies smaller than 0.7 eV, the temperature induced shift of the luminescence arising from a large ensemble of nanostructures is then smaller than that of an individual QD. This is due to the combination of two effects, that favor the emission from smaller islands: i) the charge carriers captured by the wetting layers are preferably transferred to the thinnest QDs, whose emission energy is higher than 0.7 eV; ii) the PL intensity coming from the thicker dots decreases rapidly with temperature, due to the proximity of the first excited heavy hole states, from which radiative recombination is forbidden with the electrons in the ground state. Both processes have been identified through the analysis of temperature-dependent PL measurements (between 10 and 300 K) using a rate-equation model that depends on QD size. The discrimination of the contributions to the spectra of each family of QDs of the same thickness is achieved through simple calculations of the carrier energy levels as a function of temperature (in the effective mass approximation). In addition, we have observed that increasing the number of periods in thin spacer multilayers (spacer thinner than ˜ 7 nm) changes the dynamics of charge carriers and leads to an increase of carrier transfers from the wetting layer to the QDs at low temperature. Finally, we have observed vertical coupling between islands of different planes only for spacer layers of nominal thickness smaller 3 nm. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Search for gravitational radiation from intermediate mass black hole binaries in data from the second LIGO-Virgo joint science run

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aasi, J.; Abbott, B. P.; Abbott, R.; Abbott, T.; Abernathy, M. R.; Accadia, T.; Acernese, F.; Ackley, K.; Adams, C.; Adams, T.; Addesso, P.; Adhikari, R. X.; Affeldt, C.; Agathos, M.; Aggarwal, N.; Aguiar, O. D.; Ain, A.; Ajith, P.; Alemic, A.; Allen, B.; Allocca, A.; Amariutei, D.; Andersen, M.; Anderson, R.; Anderson, S. B.; Anderson, W. G.; Arai, K.; Araya, M. C.; Arceneaux, C.; Areeda, J.; Aston, S. M.; Astone, P.; Aufmuth, P.; Aulbert, C.; Austin, L.; Aylott, B. E.; Babak, S.; Baker, P. T.; Ballardin, G.; Ballmer, S. W.; Barayoga, J. C.; Barbet, M.; Barish, B. C.; Barker, D.; Barone, F.; Barr, B.; Barsotti, L.; Barsuglia, M.; Barton, M. A.; Bartos, I.; Bassiri, R.; Basti, A.; Batch, J. C.; Bauchrowitz, J.; Bauer, Th. S.; Bavigadda, V.; Behnke, B.; Bejger, M.; Beker, M. G.; Belczynski, C.; Bell, A. S.; Bell, C.; Bergmann, G.; Bersanetti, D.; Bertolini, A.; Betzwieser, J.; Beyersdorf, P. T.; Bilenko, I. A.; Billingsley, G.; Birch, J.; Biscans, S.; Bitossi, M.; Bizouard, M. A.; Black, E.; Blackburn, J. K.; Blackburn, L.; Blair, D.; Bloemen, S.; Blom, M.; Bock, O.; Bodiya, T. P.; Boer, M.; Bogaert, G.; Bogan, C.; Bond, C.; Bondu, F.; Bonelli, L.; Bonnand, R.; Bork, R.; Born, M.; Boschi, V.; Bose, Sukanta; Bosi, L.; Bradaschia, C.; Brady, P. R.; Braginsky, V. B.; Branchesi, M.; Brau, J. E.; Briant, T.; Bridges, D. O.; Brillet, A.; Brinkmann, M.; Brisson, V.; Brooks, A. F.; Brown, D. A.; Brown, D. D.; Brückner, F.; Buchman, S.; Bulik, T.; Bulten, H. J.; Buonanno, A.; Burman, R.; Buskulic, D.; Buy, C.; Cadonati, L.; Cagnoli, G.; Calderón Bustillo, J.; Calloni, E.; Camp, J. B.; Campsie, P.; Cannon, K. C.; Canuel, B.; Cao, J.; Capano, C. D.; Carbognani, F.; Carbone, L.; Caride, S.; Castiglia, A.; Caudill, S.; Cavaglià, M.; Cavalier, F.; Cavalieri, R.; Celerier, C.; Cella, G.; Cepeda, C.; Cesarini, E.; Chakraborty, R.; Chalermsongsak, T.; Chamberlin, S. J.; Chao, S.; Charlton, P.; Chassande-Mottin, E.; Chen, X.; Chen, Y.; Chincarini, A.; Chiummo, A.; Cho, H. S.; Chow, J.; Christensen, N.; Chu, Q.; Chua, S. S. Y.; Chung, S.; Ciani, G.; Clara, F.; Clark, J. A.; Cleva, F.; Coccia, E.; Cohadon, P.-F.; Colla, A.; Collette, C.; Colombini, M.; Cominsky, L.; Constancio, M.; Conte, A.; Cook, D.; Corbitt, T. R.; Cordier, M.; Cornish, N.; Corpuz, A.; Corsi, A.; Costa, C. A.; Coughlin, M. W.; Coughlin, S.; Coulon, J.-P.; Countryman, S.; Couvares, P.; Coward, D. M.; Cowart, M.; Coyne, D. C.; Coyne, R.; Craig, K.; Creighton, J. D. E.; Crowder, S. G.; Cumming, A.; Cunningham, L.; Cuoco, E.; Dahl, K.; Canton, T. Dal; Damjanic, M.; Danilishin, S. L.; D'Antonio, S.; Danzmann, K.; Dattilo, V.; Daveloza, H.; Davier, M.; Davies, G. S.; Daw, E. J.; Day, R.; Dayanga, T.; Debreczeni, G.; Degallaix, J.; Deléglise, S.; Del Pozzo, W.; Denker, T.; Dent, T.; Dereli, H.; Dergachev, V.; De Rosa, R.; DeRosa, R. T.; DeSalvo, R.; Dhurandhar, S.; Díaz, M.; Di Fiore, L.; Di Lieto, A.; Di Palma, I.; Di Virgilio, A.; Donath, A.; Donovan, F.; Dooley, K. L.; Doravari, S.; Dossa, S.; Douglas, R.; Downes, T. P.; Drago, M.; Drever, R. W. P.; Driggers, J. C.; Du, Z.; Ducrot, M.; Dwyer, S.; Eberle, T.; Edo, T.; Edwards, M.; Effler, A.; Eggenstein, H.; Ehrens, P.; Eichholz, J.; Eikenberry, S. S.; Endrőczi, G.; Essick, R.; Etzel, T.; Evans, M.; Evans, T.; Factourovich, M.; Fafone, V.; Fairhurst, S.; Fang, Q.; Farinon, S.; Farr, B.; Farr, W. M.; Favata, M.; Fehrmann, H.; Fejer, M. M.; Feldbaum, D.; Feroz, F.; Ferrante, I.; Ferrini, F.; Fidecaro, F.; Finn, L. S.; Fiori, I.; Fisher, R. P.; Flaminio, R.; Fournier, J.-D.; Franco, S.; Frasca, S.; Frasconi, F.; Frede, M.; Frei, Z.; Freise, A.; Frey, R.; Fricke, T. T.; Fritschel, P.; Frolov, V. V.; Fulda, P.; Fyffe, M.; Gair, J.; Gammaitoni, L.; Gaonkar, S.; Garufi, F.; Gehrels, N.; Gemme, G.; Genin, E.; Gennai, A.; Ghosh, S.; Giaime, J. A.; Giardina, K. D.; Giazotto, A.; Gill, C.; Gleason, J.; Goetz, E.; Goetz, R.; Gondan, L.; González, G.; Gordon, N.; Gorodetsky, M. L.; Gossan, S.; Goßler, S.; Gouaty, R.; Gräf, C.; Graff, P. B.; Granata, M.; Grant, A.; Gras, S.; Gray, C.; Greenhalgh, R. J. S.; Gretarsson, A. M.; Groot, P.; Grote, H.; Grover, K.; Grunewald, S.; Guidi, G. M.; Guido, C.; Gushwa, K.; Gustafson, E. K.; Gustafson, R.; Hammer, D.; Hammond, G.; Hanke, M.; Hanks, J.; Hanna, C.; Hanson, J.; Harms, J.; Harry, G. M.; Harry, I. W.; Harstad, E. D.; Hart, M.; Hartman, M. T.; Haster, C.-J.; Haughian, K.; Heidmann, A.; Heintze, M.; Heitmann, H.; Hello, P.; Hemming, G.; Hendry, M.; Heng, I. S.; Heptonstall, A. W.; Heurs, M.; Hewitson, M.; Hild, S.; Hoak, D.; Hodge, K. A.; Holt, K.; Hooper, S.; Hopkins, P.; Hosken, D. J.; Hough, J.; Howell, E. J.; Hu, Y.; Huerta, E.; Hughey, B.; Husa, S.; Huttner, S. H.; Huynh, M.; Huynh-Dinh, T.; Ingram, D. R.; Inta, R.; Isogai, T.; Ivanov, A.; Iyer, B. R.; Izumi, K.; Jacobson, M.; James, E.; Jang, H.; Jaranowski, P.; Ji, Y.; Jiménez-Forteza, F.; Johnson, W. W.; Jones, D. I.; Jones, R.; Jonker, R. J. G.; Ju, L.; K, Haris; Kalmus, P.; Kalogera, V.; Kandhasamy, S.; Kang, G.; Kanner, J. B.; Karlen, J.; Kasprzack, M.; Katsavounidis, E.; Katzman, W.; Kaufer, H.; Kawabe, K.; Kawazoe, F.; Kéfélian, F.; Keiser, G. M.; Keitel, D.; Kelley, D. B.; Kells, W.; Khalaidovski, A.; Khalili, F. Y.; Khazanov, E. A.; Kim, C.; Kim, K.; Kim, N. G.; Kim, N.; Kim, Y.-M.; King, E. J.; King, P. J.; Kinzel, D. L.; Kissel, J. S.; Klimenko, S.; Kline, J.; Koehlenbeck, S.; Kokeyama, K.; Kondrashov, V.; Koranda, S.; Korth, W. Z.; Kowalska, I.; Kozak, D. B.; Kremin, A.; Kringel, V.; Krishnan, B.; Królak, A.; Kuehn, G.; Kumar, A.; Kumar, P.; Kumar, R.; Kuo, L.; Kutynia, A.; Kwee, P.; Landry, M.; Lantz, B.; Larson, S.; Lasky, P. D.; Lawrie, C.; Lazzarini, A.; Lazzaro, C.; Leaci, P.; Leavey, S.; Lebigot, E. O.; Lee, C.-H.; Lee, H. K.; Lee, H. M.; Lee, J.; Leonardi, M.; Leong, J. R.; Le Roux, A.; Leroy, N.; Letendre, N.; Levin, Y.; Levine, B.; Lewis, J.; Li, T. G. F.; Libbrecht, K.; Libson, A.; Lin, A. C.; Littenberg, T. B.; Litvine, V.; Lockerbie, N. A.; Lockett, V.; Lodhia, D.; Loew, K.; Logue, J.; Lombardi, A. L.; Lorenzini, M.; Loriette, V.; Lormand, M.; Losurdo, G.; Lough, J.; Lubinski, M. J.; Lück, H.; Luijten, E.; Lundgren, A. P.; Lynch, R.; Ma, Y.; Macarthur, J.; Macdonald, E. P.; MacDonald, T.; Machenschalk, B.; MacInnis, M.; Macleod, D. M.; Magana-Sandoval, F.; Mageswaran, M.; Maglione, C.; Mailand, K.; Majorana, E.; Maksimovic, I.; Malvezzi, V.; Man, N.; Manca, G. M.; Mandel, I.; Mandic, V.; Mangano, V.; Mangini, N.; Mantovani, M.; Marchesoni, F.; Marion, F.; Márka, S.; Márka, Z.; Markosyan, A.; Maros, E.; Marque, J.; Martelli, F.; Martin, I. W.; Martin, R. M.; Martinelli, L.; Martynov, D.; Marx, J. N.; Mason, K.; Masserot, A.; Massinger, T. J.; Matichard, F.; Matone, L.; Matzner, R. A.; Mavalvala, N.; Mazumder, N.; Mazzolo, G.; McCarthy, R.; McClelland, D. E.; McGuire, S. C.; McIntyre, G.; McIver, J.; McLin, K.; Meacher, D.; Meadors, G. D.; Mehmet, M.; Meidam, J.; Meinders, M.; Melatos, A.; Mendell, G.; Mercer, R. A.; Meshkov, S.; Messenger, C.; Meyers, P.; Miao, H.; Michel, C.; Mikhailov, E. E.; Milano, L.; Milde, S.; Miller, J.; Minenkov, Y.; Mingarelli, C. M. F.; Mishra, C.; Mitra, S.; Mitrofanov, V. P.; Mitselmakher, G.; Mittleman, R.; Moe, B.; Moesta, P.; Moggi, A.; Mohan, M.; Mohapatra, S. R. P.; Moraru, D.; Moreno, G.; Morgado, N.; Morriss, S. R.; Mossavi, K.; Mours, B.; Mow-Lowry, C. M.; Mueller, C. L.; Mueller, G.; Mukherjee, S.; Mullavey, A.; Munch, J.; Murphy, D.; Murray, P. G.; Mytidis, A.; Nagy, M. F.; Nanda Kumar, D.; Nardecchia, I.; Naticchioni, L.; Nayak, R. K.; Necula, V.; Nelemans, G.; Neri, I.; Neri, M.; Newton, G.; Nguyen, T.; Nitz, A.; Nocera, F.; Nolting, D.; Normandin, M. E. N.; Nuttall, L. K.; Ochsner, E.; O'Dell, J.; Oelker, E.; Oh, J. J.; Oh, S. H.; Ohme, F.; Oppermann, P.; O'Reilly, B.; O'Shaughnessy, R.; Osthelder, C.; Ottaway, D. J.; Ottens, R. S.; Overmier, H.; Owen, B. J.; Padilla, C.; Pai, A.; Palashov, O.; Palomba, C.; Pan, H.; Pan, Y.; Pankow, C.; Paoletti, F.; Papa, M. A.; Paris, H.; Pasqualetti, A.; Passaquieti, R.; Passuello, D.; Pedraza, M.; Penn, S.; Perreca, A.; Phelps, M.; Pichot, M.; Pickenpack, M.; Piergiovanni, F.; Pierro, V.; Pinard, L.; Pinto, I. M.; Pitkin, M.; Poeld, J.; Poggiani, R.; Poteomkin, A.; Powell, J.; Prasad, J.; Premachandra, S.; Prestegard, T.; Price, L. R.; Prijatelj, M.; Privitera, S.; Prodi, G. A.; Prokhorov, L.; Puncken, O.; Punturo, M.; Puppo, P.; Qin, J.; Quetschke, V.; Quintero, E.; Quiroga, G.; Quitzow-James, R.; Raab, F. J.; Rabeling, D. S.; Rácz, I.; Radkins, H.; Raffai, P.; Raja, S.; Rajalakshmi, G.; Rakhmanov, M.; Ramet, C.; Ramirez, K.; Rapagnani, P.; Raymond, V.; Re, V.; Read, J.; Reed, C. M.; Regimbau, T.; Reid, S.; Reitze, D. H.; Rhoades, E.; Ricci, F.; Riles, K.; Robertson, N. A.; Robinet, F.; Rocchi, A.; Rodruck, M.; Rolland, L.; Rollins, J. G.; Romano, R.; Romanov, G.; Romie, J. H.; Rosińska, D.; Rowan, S.; Rüdiger, A.; Ruggi, P.; Ryan, K.; Salemi, F.; Sammut, L.; Sandberg, V.; Sanders, J. R.; Sannibale, V.; Santiago-Prieto, I.; Saracco, E.; Sassolas, B.; Sathyaprakash, B. S.; Saulson, P. R.; Savage, R.; Scheuer, J.; Schilling, R.; Schnabel, R.; Schofield, R. M. S.; Schreiber, E.; Schuette, D.; Schutz, B. F.; Scott, J.; Scott, S. M.; Sellers, D.; Sengupta, A. S.; Sentenac, D.; Sequino, V.; Sergeev, A.; Shaddock, D.; Shah, S.; Shahriar, M. S.; Shaltev, M.; Shapiro, B.; Shawhan, P.; Shoemaker, D. H.; Sidery, T. L.; Siellez, K.; Siemens, X.; Sigg, D.; Simakov, D.; Singer, A.; Singer, L.; Singh, R.; Sintes, A. M.; Slagmolen, B. J. J.; Slutsky, J.; Smith, J. R.; Smith, M.; Smith, R. J. E.; Smith-Lefebvre, N. D.; Son, E. J.; Sorazu, B.; Souradeep, T.; Staley, A.; Stebbins, J.; Steinlechner, J.; Steinlechner, S.; Stephens, B. C.; Steplewski, S.; Stevenson, S.; Stone, R.; Stops, D.; Strain, K. A.; Straniero, N.; Strigin, S.; Sturani, R.; Stuver, A. L.; Summerscales, T. Z.; Susmithan, S.; Sutton, P. J.; Swinkels, B.; Tacca, M.; Talukder, D.; Tanner, D. B.; Tarabrin, S. P.; Taylor, R.; ter Braack, A. P. M.; Thirugnanasambandam, M. P.; Thomas, M.; Thomas, P.; Thorne, K. A.; Thorne, K. S.; Thrane, E.; Tiwari, V.; Tokmakov, K. V.; Tomlinson, C.; Tonelli, M.; Torres, C. V.; Torrie, C. I.; Travasso, F.; Traylor, G.; Tse, M.; Ugolini, D.; Unnikrishnan, C. S.; Urban, A. L.; Urbanek, K.; Vahlbruch, H.; Vajente, G.; Valdes, G.; Vallisneri, M.; van Beuzekom, M.; van den Brand, J. F. J.; Van Den Broeck, C.; van der Putten, S.; van der Sluys, M. V.; van Heijningen, J.; van Veggel, A. A.; Vass, S.; Vasúth, M.; Vaulin, R.; Vecchio, A.; Vedovato, G.; Veitch, J.; Veitch, P. J.; Venkateswara, K.; Verkindt, D.; Verma, S. S.; Vetrano, F.; Viceré, A.; Vincent-Finley, R.; Vinet, J.-Y.; Vitale, S.; Vo, T.; Vocca, H.; Vorvick, C.; Vousden, W. D.; Vyachanin, S. P.; Wade, A.; Wade, L.; Wade, M.; Walker, M.; Wallace, L.; Wang, M.; Wang, X.; Ward, R. L.; Was, M.; Weaver, B.; Wei, L.-W.; Weinert, M.; Weinstein, A. J.; Weiss, R.; Welborn, T.; Wen, L.; Wessels, P.; West, M.; Westphal, T.; Wette, K.; Whelan, J. T.; White, D. J.; Whiting, B. F.; Wiesner, K.; Wilkinson, C.; Williams, K.; Williams, L.; Williams, R.; Williams, T.; Williamson, A. R.; Willis, J. L.; Willke, B.; Wimmer, M.; Winkler, W.; Wipf, C. C.; Wiseman, A. G.; Wittel, H.; Woan, G.; Worden, J.; Yablon, J.; Yakushin, I.; Yamamoto, H.; Yancey, C. C.; Yang, H.; Yang, Z.; Yoshida, S.; Yvert, M.; ZadroŻny, A.; Zanolin, M.; Zendri, J.-P.; Zhang, Fan; Zhang, L.; Zhao, C.; Zhu, X. J.; Zucker, M. E.; Zuraw, S.; Zweizig, J.; LIGO Scientific Collaboration; Virgo Collaboration

2014-06-01

This paper reports on an unmodeled, all-sky search for gravitational waves from merging intermediate mass black hole binaries (IMBHB). The search was performed on data from the second joint science run of the LIGO and Virgo detectors (July 2009-October 2010) and was sensitive to IMBHBs with a range up to ˜200 Mpc, averaged over the possible sky positions and inclinations of the binaries with respect to the line of sight. No significant candidate was found. Upper limits on the coalescence-rate density of nonspinning IMBHBs with total masses between 100 and 450 M⊙ and mass ratios between 0.25 and 1 were placed by combining this analysis with an analogous search performed on data from the first LIGO-Virgo joint science run (November 2005-October 2007). The most stringent limit was set for systems consisting of two 88 M⊙ black holes and is equal to 0.12 Mpc-3 Myr-1 at the 90% confidence level. This paper also presents the first estimate, for the case of an unmodeled analysis, of the impact on the search range of IMBHB spin configurations: the visible volume for IMBHBs with nonspinning components is roughly doubled for a population of IMBHBs with spins aligned with the binary's orbital angular momentum and uniformly distributed in the dimensionless spin parameter up to 0.8, whereas an analogous population with antialigned spins decreases the visible volume by ˜20%.

Nanoscale Electronic Transport Studies of Novel Strongly Correlated Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardy, Will J.

Strongly correlated materials are those in which the electron-electron and electron-lattice interactions play pivotal roles in determining many aspects of observable physical behavior, including the electronic and magnetic properties. In this thesis, I describe electronic transport studies of novel strongly correlated materials at the nanoscale. After introducing some basic concepts, briefly reviewing historical development of the field, and discussing the process of making measurements on small length scales, I detail experimental results from studies of four specific materials: two transition metal oxide systems, and two layered transition metal dichalcogenides with intercalated magnetic moments. The first system is a modified version of a classic strongly correlated material, vanadium dioxide (VO2), which here is doped with hydrogen to suppress its metal-insulator transition and stabilize a poorly metallic phase down to liquid helium temperatures. Doped VO2 nanowires, micron flakes, and thin films display magnetoresistance (MR) consistent with weak localization physics, along with mesoscopic resistance fluctuations over short distances, raising questions about how to model transport in bad-metal correlated systems. A second transition metal oxide system is considered next: Quantum wells in SrTiO3 sandwiched between layers of SmTiO3, in which anomalous voltage fluctuation behavior is observed in etched nanostructures at low temperatures. After well-understood alternative origins are ruled out, an explanation is proposed involving a time-varying thermopower due to two-level fluctuations of etching-induced defects. Next, I shift to the topic of layered itinerant magnetic materials with intercalated moments, starting with Fe0.28TaS 2, a hard ferromagnet (FM) with strong spin-orbit coupling. Here, a surprisingly large MR of nearly 70% is observed, an especially striking feature given that the closely related compounds at Fe intercalation fractions of 1/4 or 1/3 have MR nearly two orders of magnitude smaller. In the latter compounds, the Fe atoms are arranged in ordered superlattices, whereas for the 0.28 case, a portion of the Fe moments deviate from ordered arrangement and are relatively easily flipped by an external magnetic field to be anti-aligned with neighboring ordered Fe moments. This situation, combined with strong spin-orbit coupling, results in enhanced charge carrier scattering and greatly increased resistance. The thesis concludes with a study of a second layered magnetic material, V5S8 (structurally equivalent to V0.25VS2), which is found to have a magnetic field driven phase transition at low temperatures, believed to be from antiferromagnetism to paramagnetism. This transition is first order in thick crystals, but becomes second order as the crystal thickness decreases toward 10 nm. Together, the experiments described in this thesis highlight the complexity and diversity of strongly correlated materials, while showcasing the power of nanoscale electronic transport in delivering an improved understanding of these systems.

The Oblique Orbit of WASP-107b from K2 Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Fei; Winn, Joshua N.

2017-05-01

Observations of nine transits of WASP-107 during the K2 mission reveal three separate occasions when the planet crossed in front of a starspot. The data confirm the stellar rotation period to be 17 days—approximately three times the planet’s orbital period—and suggest that large spots persist for at least one full rotation. If the star had a low obliquity, at least two additional spot crossings should have been observed. They were not observed, giving evidence for a high obliquity. We use a simple geometric model to show that the obliquity is likely in the range 40°-140°, I.e., both spin-orbit alignment and anti-alignment can be ruled out. WASP-107 thereby joins the small collection of relatively low-mass stars with a high obliquity. Most such stars have been observed to have low obliquities; all of the exceptions, including WASP-107, involve planets with relatively wide orbits (“warm Jupiters,” with {a}{{\\min }}/{R}\\star ≳ 8). This demonstrates a connection between stellar obliquity and planet properties, in contradiction to some theories for obliquity excitation.

Plasma bulk flow in Jupiter's dayside middle magnetosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sands, Mark R.; Mcnutt, Ralph L., Jr.

1988-01-01

Using the plasma data obtained during the Voyager 1 encounter and the full response function of the Plasma Science (PLS) experiment, convective plasma velocities have been determined in the dayside middle magnetosphere of Jupiter (r = 10-25 Jupiter radii). It is found that temperature anisotropies have very little effect on plasma velocity determination and that the plasma data are well approximated by convected, isotropic Maxwellian ion distribution functions. The insensitivity of the analysis to any thermal anisotropies which may exist allows a good determination of the bulk plasma flow velocity. In addition to the subcorotational azimuthal flow, there exists a substantial nonazimuthal component of plasma flow. This nonazimuthal flow is mostly aligned (antialigned) with the local magnetic field but also exhibits a cross-field component. The velocity pattern is inconsistent with enhanced plasma outflow in the active sector, as suggested by the corotating convection model of plasma transport. The contribution of field-aligned flow along the curved magnetic field lines to the stress on the magnetic field is evaluated. In the region studied, such flow contributes up to one half the stress produced by the azimuthal plasma flow.

Hybrid-exchange density-functional theory study of the electronic structure of MnV2O4 : Exotic orbital ordering in the cubic structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Wei

2015-05-01

The electronic structures of cubic and tetragonal MnV2O4 have been studied using hybrid-exchange density-functional theory. The computed electronic structure of the tetragonal phase shows an antiferro-orbital ordering on V sites and a ferrimagnetic ground state (the spins on V and Mn are antialigned). These results are in good agreement with the previous theoretical result obtained from the local-density approximation + U methods [S. Sarkar et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 102, 216405 (2009), 10.1103/PhysRevLett.102.216405]. Moreover, the electronic structure, especially the projected density of states of the cubic phase, has been predicted with good agreement with the recent soft x-ray spectroscopy experiment. Similar to the tetragonal phase, the spins on V and Mn in the cubic structure favor a ferrimagnetic configuration. Most interesting is that the computed charge densities of the spin-carrying orbitals on V in the cubic phase show an exotic orbital ordering, i.e., a ferro-orbital ordering along [110] but an antiferro-orbital ordering along [1 ¯10 ] .

Numerical relativity simulations of precessing binary neutron star mergers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dietrich, Tim; Bernuzzi, Sebastiano; Brügmann, Bernd; Ujevic, Maximiliano; Tichy, Wolfgang

2018-03-01

We present the first set of numerical relativity simulations of binary neutron mergers that include spin precession effects and are evolved with multiple resolutions. Our simulations employ consistent initial data in general relativity with different spin configurations and dimensionless spin magnitudes ˜0.1 . They start at a gravitational-wave frequency of ˜392 Hz and cover more than 1 precession period and about 15 orbits up to merger. We discuss the spin precession dynamics by analyzing coordinate trajectories, quasilocal spin measurements, and energetics, by comparing spin aligned, antialigned, and irrotational configurations. Gravitational waveforms from different spin configuration are compared by calculating the mismatch between pairs of waveforms in the late inspiral. We find that precession effects are not distinguishable from nonprecessing configurations with aligned spins for approximately face-on binaries, while the latter are distinguishable from nonspinning configurations. Spin precession effects are instead clearly visible for approximately edge-on binaries. For the parameters considered here, precession does not significantly affect the characteristic postmerger gravitational-wave frequencies nor the mass ejection. Our results pave the way for the modeling of spin precession effects in the gravitational waveform from binary neutron star events.

Data Quality Control and Maintenance for the Qweak Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heiner, Nicholas; Spayde, Damon

2014-03-01

The Qweak collaboration seeks to quantify the weak charge of a proton through the analysis of the parity-violating electron asymmetry in elastic electron-proton scattering. The asymmetry is calculated by measuring how many electrons deflect from a hydrogen target at the chosen scattering angle for aligned and anti-aligned electron spins, then evaluating the difference between the numbers of deflections that occurred for both polarization states. The weak charge can then be extracted from this data. Knowing the weak charge will allow us to calculate the electroweak mixing angle for the particular Q2 value of the chosen electrons, which the Standard Model makes a firm prediction for. Any significant deviation from this prediction would be a prime indicator of the existence of physics beyond what the Standard Model describes. After the experiment was conducted at Jefferson Lab, collected data was stored within a MySQL database for further analysis. I will present an overview of the database and its functions as well as a demonstration of the quality checks and maintenance performed on the data itself. These checks include an analysis of errors occurring throughout the experiment, specifically data acquisition errors within the main detector array, and an analysis of data cuts.

Strain-induced vertical self-organization of semiconductor quantum dots: A computational study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shtinkov, N., E-mail: nshtinkov@uottawa.ca

Atomistic strain simulations based on the valence force field method are employed to study the vertical arrangements of semiconductor quantum dot (QD) multilayers. The effects of the QD shape, dimensions, and materials parameters are systematically investigated, varying independently the following parameters: spacer width H, QD lateral spacing D, base b, and height h, slope of the side facets, elastic properties of the dot and the substrate materials, and lattice mismatch between the dot and the substrate. The transition between vertically aligned and anti-aligned structures is found to be determined mainly by the ratios H/D and b/D, as well as bymore » the strain anisotropy of the substrate and to a lesser extent of the QD. The dependence on the QD height h is significant only for steep side facets and large aspect ratios h/b, and the effects of the lattice mismatch strain and the bulk elastic moduli are found to be negligible. The comparison with experimental data shows an excellent agreement with the results from the simulations, demonstrating that the presented analysis results in precise theoretical predictions for the vertical self-organization regime in a wide range of QD materials systems.« less

The UAH Spinning Terrella Experiment: A Laboratory Analog for the Earth's Magnetosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sheldon, R. B.; Gallagher, D. L.; Craven, P. D.; Whitaker, Ann F. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The UAH Spinning Terrella Experiment has been modified to include the effect of a second magnet. This is a simple laboratory demonstration of the well-known double-dipole approximation to the Earth's magnetosphere. In addition, the magnet has been biassed $\\sim$-400V which generates a DC glow discharge and traps it in a ring current around the magnet. This ring current is easily imaged with a digital camera and illustrates several significant topological properties of a dipole field. In particular, when the two dipoles are aligned, and therefore repel, they emulate a northward IMF Bz magnetosphere. Such a geometry traps plasma in the high latitude cusps as can be clearly seen in the movies. Likewise, when the two magnets are anti-aligned, they emulate a southward IMF Bz magnetosphere with direct feeding of plasma through the x-line. We present evidence for trapping and heating of the plasma, comparing the dipole-trapped ring current to the cusp-trapped population. We also present a peculiar asymmetric ring current produced in by the plasma at low plasma densities. We discuss the similarities and dissimilarities of the laboratory analog to the collisionless Earth plasma, and implications for the interpretation of IMAGE data.

Theory vs. experiment for molecular clusters: Spectra of OCS trimers and tetramers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Evangelisti, Luca; Dipartimento di Chimica “G. Ciamician,” University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, Bologna 40126; Perez, Cristobal

All singly substituted {sup 13}C, {sup 18}O, and {sup 34}S isotopomers of the previously known OCS trimer are observed in natural abundance in a broad-band spectrum measured with a chirped-pulse Fourier transform microwave spectrometer. The complete substitution structure thus obtained critically tests (and confirms) the common assumption that monomers tend to retain their free structure in a weakly bound cluster. A new OCS trimer isomer is also observed, and its structure is determined to be barrel-shaped but with the monomers all approximately aligned, in contrast to the original trimer which is barrel-shaped with two monomers aligned and one anti-aligned. Anmore » OCS tetramer spectrum is assigned for the first time, and the tetramer structure resembles an original trimer with an OCS monomer added at the end with two sulfur atoms. Infrared spectra observed in the region of the OCS ν{sub 1} fundamental (≈2060 cm{sup −1}) are assigned to the same OCS tetramer, and another infrared band is tentatively assigned to a different tetramer isomer. The experimental results are compared and contrasted with theoretical predictions from the literature and from new cluster calculations which use an accurate OCS pair potential and assume pairwise additivity.« less

Cooperative ordering and kinetics of cellulose nanocrystal alignment in a magnetic field

DOE PAGES

De France, Kevin J.; Yager, Kevin G.; Hoare, Todd; ...

2016-07-13

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are emerging nanomaterials that form chiral nematic liquid crystals above a critical concentration (C*) and additionally orient within electromagnetic fields. The control over CNC alignment is significant for materials processing and end use; to date, magnetic alignment has been demonstrated using only strong fields over extended or arbitrary time scales. This work investigates the effects of comparatively weak magnetic fields (0–1.2 T) and CNC concentration (1.65–8.25 wt %) on the kinetics and degree of CNC ordering using small-angle X-ray scattering. Interparticle spacing, correlation length, and orientation order parameters (η and S) increased with time and field strengthmore » following a sigmoidal profile. In a 1.2 T magnetic field for CNC suspensions above C*, partial alignment occurred in under 2 min followed by slower cooperative ordering to achieve nearly perfect alignment in under 200 min (S = –0.499 where S = –0.5 indicates perfect antialignment). At 0.56 T, nearly perfect alignment was also achieved, yet the ordering was 36% slower. Outside of a magnetic field, the order parameter plateaued at 52% alignment (S = –0.26) after 5 h, showcasing the drastic effects of relatively weak magnetic fields on CNC alignment. For suspensions below C*, no magnetic alignment was detected.« less

Searching for gravitational waves from compact binaries with precessing spins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harry, Ian; Privitera, Stephen; Bohé, Alejandro; Buonanno, Alessandra

2016-07-01

Current searches for gravitational waves from compact-object binaries with the LIGO and Virgo observatories employ waveform models with spins aligned (or antialigned) with the orbital angular momentum. Here, we derive a new statistic to search for compact objects carrying generic (precessing) spins. Applying this statistic, we construct banks of both aligned- and generic-spin templates for binary black holes and neutron star-black hole binaries, and compare the effectualness of these banks towards simulated populations of generic-spin systems. We then use these banks in a pipeline analysis of Gaussian noise to measure the increase in background incurred by using generic- instead of aligned-spin banks. Although the generic-spin banks have roughly a factor of ten more templates than the aligned-spin banks, we find an overall improvement in signal recovery at a fixed false-alarm rate for systems with high-mass ratio and highly precessing spins. This gain in sensitivity comes at a small loss of sensitivity (≲4 %) for systems that are already well covered by aligned-spin templates. Since the observation of even a single binary merger with misaligned spins could provide unique astrophysical insights into the formation of these sources, we recommend that the method described here be developed further to mount a viable search for generic-spin binary mergers in LIGO/Virgo data.

Domino model for geomagnetic field reversals.

PubMed

Mori, N; Schmitt, D; Wicht, J; Ferriz-Mas, A; Mouri, H; Nakamichi, A; Morikawa, M

2013-01-01

We solve the equations of motion of a one-dimensional planar Heisenberg (or Vaks-Larkin) model consisting of a system of interacting macrospins aligned along a ring. Each spin has unit length and is described by its angle with respect to the rotational axis. The orientation of the spins can vary in time due to spin-spin interaction and random forcing. We statistically describe the behavior of the sum of all spins for different parameters. The term "domino model" in the title refers to the interaction among the spins. We compare the model results with geomagnetic field reversals and dynamo simulations and find strikingly similar behavior. The aggregate of all spins keeps the same direction for a long time and, once in a while, begins flipping to change the orientation by almost 180 degrees (mimicking a geomagnetic reversal) or to move back to the original direction (mimicking an excursion). Most of the time the spins are aligned or antialigned and deviate only slightly with respect to the rotational axis (mimicking the secular variation of the geomagnetic pole with respect to the geographic pole). Reversals are fast compared to the times in between and they occur at random times, both in the model and in the case of the Earth's magnetic field.

Intimate Partner Violence in Interracial and Monoracial Couples

PubMed Central

Martin, Brittny A.; Cui, Ming; Ueno, Koji; Fincham, Frank D.

2012-01-01

This study investigated intimate partner violence in interracial and monoracial relationships. Using a nationally representative sample, regression analyses indicated that interracial couples demonstrated a higher level of mutual IPV than monoracial white couples but a level similar to monoracial black couples. There were significant gender differences in IPV, with women reporting lower levels of victimization than men. Regarding relationship status, cohabiting couples demonstrated the highest levels of IPV and dating couples reported the lowest levels. Regarding interactions among couple racial composition, relationship status, and respondents’ gender, an interaction between racial composition and relationship status was found. Implications for practitioners and directions for future research are discussed. PMID:23554541

Collective Dynamics in Physical and Social Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Isakov, Alexander

We study four systems where individual units come together to display a range of collective behavior. First, we consider a physical system of phase oscillators on a network that expands the Kuramoto model to include oscillator-network interactions and the presence of noise: using a Hebbian-like learning rule, oscillators that synchronize in turn strengthen their connections to each other. We find that the average degree of connectivity strongly affects rates of flipping between aligned and anti-aligned states, and that this result persists to the case of complex networks. Turning to a fully multi-player, multi-strategy evolutionary dynamics model of cooperating bacteria that change who they give resources to and take resources from, we find several regimes that give rise to high levels of collective structure in the resulting networks. In this setting, we also explore the conditions in which an intervention that affects cooperation itself (e.g. "seeding the network with defectors") can lead to wiping out an infection. We find a non-monotonic connection between the percent of disabled cooperation and cure rate, suggesting that in some regimes a limited perturbation can lead to total population collapse. At a larger scale, we study how the locomotor system recovers after amputation in fruit flies. Through experiment and a theoretical model of multi-legged motion controlled by neural oscillators, we find that proprioception plays a role in the ability of flies to control leg forces appropriately to recover from a large initial turning bias induced by the injury. Finally, at the human scale, we consider a social network in a traditional society in Africa to understand how social ties lead to group formation for collective action (stealth raids). We identify critical and distinct roles for both leadership (important for catalyzing a group) and friendship (important for final composition). We conclude with prospects for future work.

Detecting binary neutron star systems with spin in advanced gravitational-wave detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Duncan A.; Harry, Ian; Lundgren, Andrew; Nitz, Alexander H.

2012-10-01

The detection of gravitational waves from binary neutron stars is a major goal of the gravitational-wave observatories Advanced LIGO and Advanced Virgo. Previous searches for binary neutron stars with LIGO and Virgo neglected the component stars’ angular momentum (spin). We demonstrate that neglecting spin in matched-filter searches causes advanced detectors to lose more than 3% of the possible signal-to-noise ratio for 59% (6%) of sources, assuming that neutron star dimensionless spins, cJ/GM2, are uniformly distributed with magnitudes between 0 and 0.4 (0.05) and that the neutron stars have isotropically distributed spin orientations. We present a new method for constructing template banks for gravitational-wave searches for systems with spin. We present a new metric in a parameter space in which the template placement metric is globally flat. This new method can create template banks of signals with nonzero spins that are (anti-)aligned with the orbital angular momentum. We show that this search loses more than 3% of the maximum signal-to-noise for only 9% (0.2%) of binary neutron star sources with dimensionless spins between 0 and 0.4 (0.05) and isotropic spin orientations. Use of this template bank will prevent selection bias in gravitational-wave searches and allow a more accurate exploration of the distribution of spins in binary neutron stars.

Precessional Instability in Binary Black Holes with Aligned Spins.

PubMed

Gerosa, Davide; Kesden, Michael; O'Shaughnessy, Richard; Klein, Antoine; Berti, Emanuele; Sperhake, Ulrich; Trifirò, Daniele

2015-10-02

Binary black holes on quasicircular orbits with spins aligned with their orbital angular momentum have been test beds for analytic and numerical relativity for decades, not least because symmetry ensures that such configurations are equilibrium solutions to the spin-precession equations. In this work, we show that these solutions can be unstable when the spin of the higher-mass black hole is aligned with the orbital angular momentum and the spin of the lower-mass black hole is antialigned. Spins in these configurations are unstable to precession to large misalignment when the binary separation r is between the values r(ud±)=(√(χ(1))±√(qχ(2)))(4)(1-q)(-2)M, where M is the total mass, q≡m(2)/m(1) is the mass ratio, and χ(1) (χ(2)) is the dimensionless spin of the more (less) massive black hole. This instability exists for a wide range of spin magnitudes and mass ratios and can occur in the strong-field regime near the merger. We describe the origin and nature of the instability using recently developed analytical techniques to characterize fully generic spin precession. This instability provides a channel to circumvent astrophysical spin alignment at large binary separations, allowing significant spin precession prior to merger affecting both gravitational-wave and electromagnetic signatures of stellar-mass and supermassive binary black holes.

Electromagnetic pulse (EMP) coupling codes for use with the vulnerability/lethality (VIL) taxonomy. Final report, June-October 1984

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mar, M.H.

1995-07-01

Based on the vulnerability Lethality (V/L) taxonomy developed by the Ballistic Vulnerability Lethality Division (BVLD) of the Survivability Lethality Analysis Directorate (SLAD), a nuclear electromagnetic pulse (EMP) coupling V/L analysis taxonomy has been developed. A nuclear EMP threat to a military system can be divided into two levels: (1) coupling to a system level through a cable, antenna, or aperture; and (2) the component level. This report will focus on the initial condition, which includes threat definition and target description, as well as the mapping process from the initial condition to damaged components state. EMP coupling analysis at a systemmore » level is used to accomplish this. This report introduces the nature of EMP threat, interaction between the threat and target, and how the output of EMP coupling analysis at a system level becomes the input to the component level analysis. Many different tools (EMP coupling codes) will be discussed for the mapping process, which correponds to the physics of phenomenology. This EMP coupling V/L taxonomy and the models identified in this report will provide the tools necessary to conduct basic V/L analysis of EMP coupling.« less

Couple Characteristics and Contraceptive Use among Women and their Partners in Urban Kenya

PubMed Central

Irani, Laili; Speizer, Ilene S.; Fotso, Jean-Christophe

2014-01-01

Background Few studies have used couple data to identify individual- and relationship-level characteristics that affect contraceptive use in urban areas. Using matched couple data from urban Kenya collected in 2010, this study determines the association between relationship-level characteristics (desire for another child, communication about desired number of children and FP use) and contraceptive use and intention to use among non-users. Methods Data were collected from three Kenyan cities: Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu. Baseline population-based survey data from the Measurement, Learning & Evaluation Project were used to identify 883couples (weighted value=840). Multivariate regressions used the couple as the unit of analysis. Results Almost two-thirds of couples currently used contraception. Adjusting for individual- and environmental-level characteristics, couples who desired another child were less likely to use contraception than couples wanting more children. In addition, couples where both partners reported communicating with each other regarding desired number of children and FP use were more likely to use contraception compared to couples that did not communicate. Analyses testing the association of relationship-level characteristics and intention to use contraception, among non-users, resembled those of current contraceptive users. Conclusion Couple-level characteristics are associated with current contraceptive use and future intent to use. Couples that discussed their desired number of children and FP use were more likely to use contraception than couples that did not communicate with each other. FP programs should identify strategies to improve communication in FP among couples and to ensure better cooperation between partners. PMID:24733057

[Characteristics of infertility-specific quality of life in Hungarian couples].

PubMed

Cserepes, Réka Eszter; Kőrösi, Tamás; Bugán, Antal

2014-05-18

Experiencing involuntary childlessness has a great impact on couples' quality of life. The aim of the authors was to examine the correlations among infertility-specific quality of life and depression on the level of individuals and couples. 126 couples in five fertility centers in Hungary filled out the FertiQoL and Beck Depression Inventory and answered some sociodemographic questions. In gender comparison, women reported about more depressive symptoms and poorer quality of life than men. Both in men and women, the higher depression level correlated with lower level of quality of life. Moreover, the presence of more depressive symptoms in women was related to men's poorer quality of life. The results show that differences may exist in affective responses to infertility between women and men and that female affective problems take effects on the level of the couple relationship. These findings may be useful in psychosocial support of the couples facing infertility, especially in couple counselling or couple therapy.

Intimate Partner Violence in Interracial and Monoracial Couples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Brittny A.; Cui, Ming; Ueno, Koji; Fincham, Frank D.

2013-01-01

This study, using a nationally representative sample, investigated intimate partner violence (IPV) in interracial and monoracial relationships. Regression analyses indicated that interracial couples demonstrated a higher level of mutual IPV than monoracial White couples but a level similar to monoracial Black couples. There were significant gender…

Current state and future perspectives on coupled ice-sheet - sea-level modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Boer, Bas; Stocchi, Paolo; Whitehouse, Pippa L.; van de Wal, Roderik S. W.

2017-08-01

The interaction between ice-sheet growth and retreat and sea-level change has been an established field of research for many years. However, recent advances in numerical modelling have shed new light on the precise interaction of marine ice sheets with the change in near-field sea level, and the related stability of the grounding line position. Studies using fully coupled ice-sheet - sea-level models have shown that accounting for gravitationally self-consistent sea-level change will act to slow down the retreat and advance of marine ice-sheet grounding lines. Moreover, by simultaneously solving the 'sea-level equation' and modelling ice-sheet flow, coupled models provide a global field of relative sea-level change that is consistent with dynamic changes in ice-sheet extent. In this paper we present an overview of recent advances, possible caveats, methodologies and challenges involved in coupled ice-sheet - sea-level modelling. We conclude by presenting a first-order comparison between a suite of relative sea-level data and output from a coupled ice-sheet - sea-level model.

Between and within couple-level factors associated with gay male couples’ investment in a sexual agreement

PubMed Central

Mitchell, Jason W.

2015-01-01

Sexual agreements are common among gay male couples, and between one-third and two-thirds of gay men acquire HIV while in a same-sex relationship. Studies have assessed whether agreements could be used for HIV prevention yet additional research is needed. By using dyadic data collected from 361 U.S. gay male couples, the present cross-sectional study sought to assess whether certain between and within couple-level relationship characteristics predict a partner's value in, commitment to, and satisfaction with an agreement. On average, couples with higher levels of constructive communication and relationship satisfaction and commitment were associated with partners who had higher levels of investment in the agreement. Within the couple, differences in commitment and investment of the relationship were also found to be negatively associated with partners’ investment toward an agreement. Implications are discussed for how sexual agreements may be used to develop new HIV prevention efforts for gay male couples. PMID:24327185

DIGITAL Q METER

DOEpatents

Briscoe, W.L.

1962-02-13

A digital Q meter is described for measuring the Q of mechanical or electrical devices. The meter comprises in combination a transducer coupled to an input amplifier, and an upper and lower level discriminator coupled to the amplifier and having their outputs coupled to an anticoincidence gate. The output of the gate is connected to a scaler. The lower level discriminator is adjusted to a threshold level of 36.8 percent of the operating threshold level of the upper level discriminator. (AEC)

Same-Sex and Different-Sex Cohabiting Couple Relationship Stability.

PubMed

Manning, Wendy D; Brown, Susan L; Stykes, J Bart

2016-08-01

Relationship stability is a key indicator of well-being, but most U.S.-based research has been limited to different-sex couples. The 2008 panel of the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) provides an untapped data resource to analyze relationship stability of same-sex cohabiting, different-sex cohabiting, and different-sex married couples (n = 5,701). The advantages of the SIPP data include the recent, nationally representative, and longitudinal data collection; a large sample of same-sex cohabitors; respondent and partner socioeconomic characteristics; and identification of a state-level indicator of a policy stating that marriage is between one man and one woman (i.e., DOMA). We tested competing hypotheses about the stability of same-sex versus different-sex cohabiting couples that were guided by incomplete institutionalization, minority stress, relationship investments, and couple homogamy perspectives (predicting that same-sex couples would be less stable) as well as economic resources (predicting that same-sex couples would be more stable). In fact, neither expectation was supported: results indicated that same-sex cohabiting couples typically experience levels of stability that are similar to those of different-sex cohabiting couples. We also found evidence of contextual effects: living in a state with a constitutional ban against same-sex marriage was significantly associated with higher levels of instability for same- and different-sex cohabiting couples. The level of stability in both same-sex and different-sex cohabiting couples is not on par with that of different-sex married couples. The findings contribute to a growing literature on health and well-being of same-sex couples and provide a broader understanding of family life.

Gestural coupling and social cognition: Möbius Syndrome as a case study

PubMed Central

Krueger, Joel; Michael, John

2012-01-01

Social cognition researchers have become increasingly interested in the ways that behavioral, physiological, and neural coupling facilitate social interaction and interpersonal understanding. We distinguish two ways of conceptualizing the role of such coupling processes in social cognition: strong and moderate interactionism. According to strong interactionism (SI), low-level coupling processes are alternatives to higher-level individual cognitive processes; the former at least sometimes render the latter superfluous. Moderate interactionism (MI) on the other hand, is an integrative approach. Its guiding assumption is that higher-level cognitive processes are likely to have been shaped by the need to coordinate, modulate, and extract information from low-level coupling processes. In this paper, we present a case study on Möbius Syndrome (MS) in order to contrast SI and MI. We show how MS—a form of congenital bilateral facial paralysis—can be a fruitful source of insight for research exploring the relation between high-level cognition and low-level coupling. Lacking a capacity for facial expression, individuals with MS are deprived of a primary channel for gestural coupling. According to SI, they lack an essential enabling feature for social interaction and interpersonal understanding more generally and thus ought to exhibit severe deficits in these areas. We challenge SI's prediction and show how MS cases offer compelling reasons for instead adopting MI's pluralistic model of social interaction and interpersonal understanding. We conclude that investigations of coupling processes within social interaction should inform rather than marginalize or eliminate investigation of higher-level individual cognition. PMID:22514529

Resonant Capture and Tidal Evolution in Circumbinary Systems: Testing the Case of Kepler-38

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zoppetti, F. A.; Beaugé, C.; Leiva, A. M.

2018-04-01

Circumbinary planets are thought to form far from the central binary and migrate inwards by interactions with the circumbinary disk, ultimately stopping near their present location either by a planetary trap near the disk inner edge or by resonance capture. Here, we analyze the second possibility, presenting a detailed numerical study on the capture process, resonant dynamics and tidal evolution of circumbinary planets in high-order mean-motion resonances (MMRs). Planetary migration was modeled as an external acceleration in an N-body code, while tidal effects were incorporated with a weak-friction equilibrium tide model. As a working example we chose Kepler-38, a highly evolved system with a planet in the vicinity of the 5/1 MMR. Our simulations show that resonance capture is a high-probability event under a large range of system parameters, although several different resonant configuration are possible. We identified three possible outcomes: aligned librations, anti-aligned librations and chaotic solutions. All were found to be dynamically stable, even after the dissipation of the disk, for time-spans of the order of the system's age. We found that while tidal evolution decreases the binary's separation, the semimajor axis of the planet is driven outwards. Although the net effect is a secular increase in the mean-motion ratio, the system requires a planetary tidal parameter of the order of unity to reproduce the observed orbital configuration. The results presented here open an interesting outlook into the complex dynamics of high-order resonances in circumbinary systems.

Evolution of Warped Accretion Disks in Active Galactic Nuclei. I. Roles of Feeding at the Outer Boundaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yan-Rong; Wang, Jian-Min; Cheng, Cheng; Qiu, Jie

2013-02-01

We investigate the alignment processes of spinning black holes and their surrounding warped accretion disks in a frame of two different types of feeding at the outer boundaries. We consider (1) fixed flows in which gas is continually fed with a preferred angular momentum, and (2) free flows in which there is no gas supply and the disks diffuse freely at their outer edges. As expected, we find that for the cases of fixed flows the black hole disk systems always align on timescales of several 106 yr, irrespective of the initial inclinations. If the initial inclination angles are larger than π/2, the black hole accretion transits from retrograde to prograde fashion, and the accreted mass onto the black holes during these two phases is comparable. On the other hand, for the cases of free flows, both alignments and anti-alignments can occur, depending on the initial inclinations and the ratios of the angular momentum of the disks to that of the black holes. In such cases, the disks will be consumed within timescales of 106 yr by black holes accreting at the Eddington limit. We propose that there is a close connection between the black hole spin and the lifetime for which the feeding persists, which determines the observable episodic lifetimes of active galactic nuclei. We conclude that careful inclusion of the disk feeding at the outer boundaries is crucial for modeling the evolution of the black hole spin.

Linear Tidal Vestige Found in the WM Sheet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jounghun; Kim, Suk; Rey, Soo-Chang

2018-06-01

We present a vestige of the linear tidal influence on the spin orientations of the constituent galaxies of the WM sheet discovered in the vicinity of the Virgo Cluster and the Local Void. The WM sheet is chosen as an optimal target since it has a rectangular parallelepiped-like shape whose three sides are in parallel with the supergalactic Cartesian axes. Determining three probability density functions of the absolute values of the supergalactic Cartesian components of the spin vectors of the WM sheet galaxies, we investigate their alignments with the principal directions of the surrounding large-scale tidal field. When the WM sheet galaxies located in the central region within the distance of 2 h ‑1 Mpc are excluded, the spin vectors of the remaining WM sheet galaxies are found to be weakly aligned, strongly aligned, and strongly anti-aligned with the minor, intermediate, and major principal directions of the surrounding large-scale tidal field, respectively. To examine whether or not the origin of the observed alignment tendency from the WM sheet is the linear tidal effect, we infer the eigenvalues of the linear tidal tensor from the axial ratios of the WM sheet with the help of the Zeldovich approximation and conduct a full analytic evaluation of the prediction of the linear tidal torque model for the three probability density functions. A detailed comparison between the analytical and the observational results reveals a good quantitative agreement not only in the behaviors but also in the amplitudes of the three probability density functions.

Resonant capture and tidal evolution in circumbinary systems: testing the case of Kepler-38

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zoppetti, F. A.; Beaugé, C.; Leiva, A. M.

2018-07-01

Circumbinary planets are thought to form far from the central binary and migrate inwards by interactions with the circumbinary disc, ultimately stopping near their present location either by a planetary trap near the disc inner edge or by resonance capture. Here, we analyse the second possibility, presenting a detailed numerical study on the capture process, resonant dynamics, and tidal evolution of circumbinary planets in high-order mean-motion resonances (MMRs). Planetary migration was modelled as an external acceleration in an N-body code, while tidal effects were incorporated with a weak-friction equilibrium tide model. As a working example, we chose Kepler-38, a highly evolved system with a planet in the vicinity of the 5/1 MMR. Our simulations show that resonance capture is a high-probability event under a large range of system parameters, although several different resonant configuration are possible. We identified three possible outcomes: aligned librations, anti-aligned librations, and chaotic solutions. All were found to be dynamically stable, even after the dissipation of the disc, for time spans of the order of the system's age. We found that while tidal evolution decreases the binary's separation, the semimajor axis of the planet is driven outwards. Although the net effect is a secular increase in the mean-motion ratio, the system requires a planetary tidal parameter of the order of unity to reproduce the observed orbital configuration. The results presented here open an interesting outlook into the complex dynamics of high-order resonances in circumbinary systems.

Peculiar Euphrosyne

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carruba, V.; Aljbaae, S.; Souami, D.

2014-09-01

The asteroid (31) Euphrosyne is the largest body of its namesake family, and it contains more than 99% of the family mass. Among large asteroid families, the Euphrosyne group is peculiar because of its quite steep size-frequency distribution (SFD), significantly depleted in large- and medium-sized asteroids (8 < D < 12 km). The current steep SFD of the Euphrosyne family has been suggested to be the result of a grazing impact in which only the farthest, smallest members failed to accrete. The Euphrosyne family is, however, also very peculiar because of its dynamics: near its center it is crossed by the ν6 = g - g 6 linear secular resonance, and it hosts the largest population (140 bodies) of asteroids in ν6 antialigned librating states (or Tina-like asteroids) in the main belt. In this work we investigated the orbital evolution of newly obtained members of the dynamical family, with an emphasis on its interaction with the ν6 resonance. Because of its unique resonant configuration, large- and medium-sized asteroids tend to migrate away from the family orbital region faster than small-sized objects, which were ejected farther away from the family center. As a consequence, the SFD of the Euphrosyne family becomes steeper in time with a growing depletion in the number of the largest family members. We estimate that the current SFD could be attained from a typical, initial SFD on timescales of 500 Myr, consistent with estimates of the family age obtained with other independent methods.

Peculiar Euphrosyne

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carruba, V.; Aljbaae, S.; Souami, D.

2014-07-01

(31) Euphrosyne is the largest body of its namesake family, and contains more the 99.35% of the family mass. Among asteroid families, the Euphosyne group is peculiar because of its quite steep size frequency distribution, significantly depleted in large and medium- sized asteroids (8 < D < 12~km). The current steep size frequency distribution of the Euphrosyne family has been suggested to be the result of a grazing impact in which only the farthest, smallest members failed to accrete. The Euphrosyne family is however also very peculiar because of its dynamics: near its center it is crossed by the ν_6 = g -g_6 linear secular resonance, and it hosts the largest population (140 bodies) of asteroids in ν_6 anti-aligned librating states (or Tina-like asteroids) in the main belt. In this work we investigated the orbital evolution of newly obtained members of the dynamical family, with an emphasis on its interaction with the ν_6 resonance. Because of its unique resonant configuration, large and medium sized asteroids tend to migrate away from the family orbital region faster than small-sized objects, that were ejected further away from the family center. As a consequence, the size-frequency distribution of the Euphrosyne family becomes steeper in time, with a growing depletion in the number of the largest family members. We estimate that the current size-frequency distribution could be attained from a typical, initial size-frequency distribution in time-scales of the order of 1~Byr, consistently with estimates of the family age obtained with other, independent, methods.

Electronic structure and direct observation of ferrimagnetism in multiferroic hexagonal YbFeO 3

DOE PAGES

Cao, Shi; Sinha, Kishan; Zhang, Xin; ...

2017-06-26

Here, the magnetic interactions between rare-earth and Fe ions in hexagonal rare-earth ferrites (h–RFeO 3), may amplify the weak ferromagnetic moment on Fe, making these materials more appealing as multiferroics. To elucidate the interaction strength between the rare-earth and Fe ions as well as the magnetic moment of the rare-earth ions, element-specific magnetic characterization is needed. Using x-ray magnetic circular dichroism, we have studied the ferrimagnetism in h–YbFeO 3 by measuring the magnetization of Fe and Yb separately. The results directly show antialignment of magnetization of Yb and Fe ions in h–YbFeO 3 at low temperature, with an exchange fieldmore » on Yb of about 17 kOe. The magnetic moment of Yb is about 1.6μ B at low temperature, significantly reduced compared with the 4.5μ B moment of a free Yb 3+. In addition, the saturation magnetization of Fe in h–YbFeO 3 has a sizable enhancement compared with that in h–LuFeO 3. These findings directly demonstrate that ferrimagnetic order exists in h–YbFeO 3; they also account for the enhancement of magnetization and the reduction of coercivity in h–YbFeO 3 compared with those in h–LuFeO 3 at low temperature, suggesting an important role for the rare-earth ions in tuning the multiferroic properties of h–RFeO 3.« less

Importance of doping and frustration in itinerant Fe-doped Cr 2Al

DOE PAGES

Susner, M. A.; Parker, D. S.; Sefat, A. S.

2015-05-12

We performed an experimental and theoretical study comparing the effects of Fe-doping of Cr 2Al, an antiferromagnet with a N el temperature of 670 K, with known results on Fe-doping of antiferromagnetic bcc Cr. (Cr 1-xFe x) 2Al materials are found to exhibit a rapid suppression of antiferromagnetic order with the presence of Fe, decreasing T N to 170 K for x=0.10. Antiferromagnetic behavior disappears entirely at x≈0.125 after which point increasing paramagnetic behavior is exhibited. Moreover, this is unlike the effects of Fe doping of bcc antiferromagnetic Cr, in which T N gradually decreases followed by the appearance ofmore » a ferromagnetic state. Theoretical calculations explain that the Cr 2Al-Fe suppression of magnetic order originates from two effects: the first is band narrowing caused by doping of additional electrons from Fe substitution that weakens itinerant magnetism; the second is magnetic frustration of the Cr itinerant moments in Fe-substituted Cr 2Al. In pure-phase Cr 2Al, the Cr moments have an antiparallel alignment; however, these are destroyed through Fe substitution and the preference of Fe for parallel alignment with Cr. This is unlike bulk Fe-doped Cr alloys in which the Fe anti-aligns with the Cr atoms, and speaks to the importance of the Al atoms in the magnetic structure of Cr 2Al and Fe-doped Cr 2Al.« less

Optical model with multiple band couplings using soft rotator structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martyanov, Dmitry; Soukhovitskii, Efrem; Capote, Roberto; Quesada, Jose Manuel; Chiba, Satoshi

2017-09-01

A new dispersive coupled-channel optical model (DCCOM) is derived that describes nucleon scattering on 238U and 232Th targets using a soft-rotator-model (SRM) description of the collective levels of the target nucleus. SRM Hamiltonian parameters are adjusted to the observed collective levels of the target nucleus. SRM nuclear wave functions (mixed in K quantum number) have been used to calculate coupling matrix elements of the generalized optical model. Five rotational bands are coupled: the ground-state band, β-, γ-, non-axial- bands, and a negative parity band. Such coupling scheme includes almost all levels below 1.2 MeV of excitation energy of targets. The "effective" deformations that define inter-band couplings are derived from SRM Hamiltonian parameters. Conservation of nuclear volume is enforced by introducing a monopolar deformed potential leading to additional couplings between rotational bands. The present DCCOM describes the total cross section differences between 238U and 232Th targets within experimental uncertainty from 50 keV up to 200 MeV of neutron incident energy. SRM couplings and volume conservation allow a precise calculation of the compound-nucleus (CN) formation cross sections, which is significantly different from the one calculated with rigid-rotor potentials with any number of coupled levels.

Individual and couple-level risk factors for hepatitis C infection among heterosexual drug users: a multilevel dyadic analysis.

PubMed

McMahon, James M; Pouget, Enrique R; Tortu, Stephanie

2007-06-01

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common bloodborne pathogen in the United States and is a leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality. Although it is known that HCV is most commonly transmitted among injection drug users, the role of sexual transmission in the spread of HCV remains controversial because of inconsistent findings across studies involving heterosexual couples. A novel multilevel modeling technique designed to overcome the limitations of previous research was performed to assess multiple risk factors for HCV while partitioning the source of risk at the individual and couple level. The analysis was performed on risk exposure and HCV screening data obtained from 265 drug-using couples in East Harlem, New York City. In multivariable analysis, significant individual risk factors for HCV included a history of injection drug use, tattooing, and older age. At the couple level, HCV infection tended to cluster within couples, and this interdependence was accounted for by couples' drug-injection behavior. Individual and couple-level sexual behavior was not associated with HCV infection. Our results are consistent with prior research indicating that sexual contact plays little role in HCV transmission. Rather, couples' injection behavior appears to account for the clustering of HCV within heterosexual dyads.

Marital and Family Satisfaction as a Function of Work-Family Demands and Community Resources: Individual- and Couple-Level Analyses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hostetler, Andrew J.; Desrochers, Stephan; Kopko, Kimberly; Moen, Phyllis

2012-01-01

This study uses individual- and couple-level analyses to examine the influence of work-family demands and community resources on marital and family satisfaction within a sample of dual-earner parents with dependent children (N = 260 couples, 520 individuals). Total couple work hours were strongly negatively associated with marital satisfaction for…

Assertive Communication in Condom Negotiation: Insights From Late Adolescent Couples' Subjective Ratings of Self and Partner.

PubMed

Schmid, Amy; Leonard, Noelle R; Ritchie, Amanda S; Gwadz, Marya V

2015-07-01

Assertive communication has been associated with higher levels of condom use among youth using self-report survey methodology. The purpose of this study was to examine the subjective ratings of assertiveness among young, romantically involved couples in the context of a condom negotiation task. Using an innovative video-recall procedure, 32 couples (64 youth) engaged in a videotaped condom negotiation task and then rated self and partners' level of assertiveness. Both individual ratings of assertiveness and couple-level assertiveness were assessed using dyadic hierarchical linear modeling. Individuals' assertiveness was positively associated with condom use. Unexpectedly, the overall level of assertiveness in couples showed a curvilinear association with condom use. Very high and very low assertiveness was associated with lower condom use, whereas moderate levels of assertiveness were associated with higher condom use. Moderate levels of assertiveness during condom negotiation may facilitate condom use in young couples. Increasing condom use among romantic partners may require developing interventions that strengthen youths' ability to engage in assertive communication strategies that balance emotional intimacy with self-advocacy. Copyright © 2015 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Same-Sex and Different-Sex Cohabiting Couple Relationship Stability

PubMed Central

Manning, Wendy; Brown, Susan; Stykes, Bart

2016-01-01

Relationship stability is a key indicator of well-being, but most U.S.-based research has been limited to different-sex couples. The 2008 panel of the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) provides an untapped data resource to analyze relationship stability of same-sex cohabiting, different-sex cohabiting, and different-sex married couples (n = 5,701). The advantages of the SIPP data include the recent, nationally representative, and longitudinal data collection; a large sample of same-sex cohabitors; respondent and partner socioeconomic characteristics; and identification of a state-level indicator of a policy stating that marriage is between one man and one woman (i.e., DOMA). We tested competing hypotheses about the stability of same-sex versus different-sex cohabiting couples that were guided by incomplete institutionalization, minority stress, relationship investments, and couple homogamy perspectives (predicting that same-sex couples would be less stable) as well as economic resources (predicting that same-sex couples would be more stable). In fact, neither expectation was supported: results indicated that same-sex cohabiting couples typically experience levels of stability that are similar to those of different-sex cohabiting couples. We also found evidence of contextual effects: living in a state with a constitutional ban against same-sex marriage was significantly associated with higher levels of instability for same- and different-sex cohabiting couples. The level of stability in both same-sex and different-sex cohabiting couples is not on par with that of different-sex married couples. The findings contribute to a growing literature on health and well-being of same-sex couples and provide a broader understanding of family life. PMID:27383844

Preliminary constraints on the location of the recently hypothesized new planet of the Solar System from planetary orbital dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iorio, Lorenzo

2017-01-01

It has been recently proposed that the observed grouping of either the perihelia and the orbital planes of some observed distant Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs) can be explained by the shepherding influence of a remote (150 au≲ qX≲350 au), still unseen massive object PX having planetary size (5 m_{oplus} ≲ mX≲20 m_{oplus}) and moving along an ecliptically inclined (22 deg≲ IX≲ 40 deg), eccentric (380 au≲ aX ≲980 au) Heliocentric bound orbit located in space at 80 deg≲ΩX≲120 deg and which is anti-aligned (120 deg≲ω_{ X}≲160 deg) with those of the considered KBOs. The trajectory of Saturn is nowadays known at essentially the same accuracy level of the inner planets due to the telemetry of the Cassini spacecraft. Thus, the expected perturbations dot{π}, dot{Ω} due to PX on the Kronian apsidal and draconitic orbital motions are theoretically investigated to tentatively constrain the configuration space of PX itself. To this aim, we compare our predictions dot{π}_{theo}, dot{Ω}_{theo} to the currently available experimental intervals of values Δdot{Ω}_{obs}, Δdot{π}_{ obs} determined by astronomers in the recent past without explicitly modeling and solving for PX itself. As such, our results, despite being plausible and in agreement to a large extent with other constraints released in the literature, should be regarded as proof-of-principle investigations aimed to encourage more accurate analyses in future. It turns out that the admissible region in its configuration space is moderately narrow as far as its position along its orbit, reckoned by the true anomaly fX, is concerned, being concentrated around approximately 130 deg≲ f X≲240 deg. PX is certainly far from its perihelion (fX=0 deg), in agreement with other recent studies. The future analysis of the data from the ongoing New Horizons mission might be helpful in further constraining the scenario considered here for PX. Its impact on the spacecraft's range over a multi-year span is investigated with a preliminary sensitivity analysis.

Changing sex risk behaviors, gender norms, and relationship dynamics among couples in Cape Town, South Africa: Efficacy of an intervention on the dyad.

PubMed

Speizer, Ilene S; Zule, William A; Carney, Tara; Browne, Felicia A; Ndirangu, Jacqueline; Wechsberg, Wendee M

2018-05-18

South Africa continues to experience new HIV infections, with the highest risk among Black Africans living in poor communities. Most HIV prevention interventions target women or men separately and only a small number target couples jointly. This study examines varying strategies to engage women and men around HIV prevention and improved couple interactions. The study comprises three arms: (1) a couple-based intervention delivered to women and men jointly; (2) women and men both offered a gender-focused intervention that is delivered to them separately; and (3) an intervention offered to women only and their male partners receive standard HIV testing and counseling (comparison arm). Between June 2010 and April 2012, men were identified in and around drinking establishments in a large disadvantaged community in Cape Town and asked to participate in the study if they drink regularly, had recent unprotected sex with their partner, and have a female partner who was willing to participate in the study. A total of 299 couples completed the baseline assessment and 276 were included in the analysis of sexual risk, partner communication, conflict resolution, and gender norm outcomes at baseline and six-month follow-up. Couples that participated in the couple-level intervention and couples where both partners received the intervention separately had better couple-level gender norms than couples in the comparison arm (women only receive intervention). Further, couples in the couple-level intervention and the both partners exposed separately arms were more likely to have the man only report consistent condom use than neither partner report consistent condom use than couples in the comparison arm. Community-based HIV prevention intervention programs need to consider strategies to engage women and men and, if feasible, reach both partners jointly. Couple-level interventions are promising to improve gender norms and subsequently improve health outcomes, including reduced HIV risk among women, men, and couples. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assertive communication in condom negotiation: Insights from late adolescent couples’ subjective ratings of self and partner

PubMed Central

Schmid, Amy; Leonard, Noelle R.; Ritchie, Amanda S.; Gwadz, Marya V.

2015-01-01

Purpose Assertive communication has been associated with higher levels of condom use among youth using self-report survey methodology. The purpose of this study was to examine the subjective ratings of assertiveness among young, romantically-involved couples in the context of a condom negotiation task. Methods Using an innovative video-recall procedure, 32 couples (64 youth) engaged in a videotaped condom negotiation task and then rated self and partners’ level of assertiveness. Both individual ratings of assertiveness and couple-level assertiveness were assessed using dyadic hierarchical linear modeling. Results Individuals’ assertiveness was positively associated with condom use. Unexpectedly, the overall level of assertiveness in couples showed a curvilinear association with condom use. Very high and very low assertiveness was associated with lower condom use, while moderate levels of assertiveness were associated with higher condom use. Conclusions Moderate levels of assertiveness during condom negotiation may facilitate condom use in young couples. Increasing condom use among romantic partners may require developing interventions that strengthen youths’ ability to engage in assertive communication strategies that balance emotional intimacy with self-advocacy. PMID:25937470

Depressive symptomatology in middle-aged and older married couples: a dyadic analysis.

PubMed

Townsend, A L; Miller, B; Guo, S

2001-11-01

Depressive symptomatology has been frequently conceptualized as an individual matter, but social contextual models argue that symptom levels are likely to covary in close relationships. The present study investigated correlation between spouses' depressive symptomatology in middle-aged and older married couples, the influence of gender and race/ethnicity in predicting variability in symptom level, and the importance of individual-level covariates (education, health, and age) and couple-level covariates (household income and net worth). Results were based on secondary analysis of Wave 1 interviews with White, Black, and Mexican American married couples (N = 5,423) from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and the Study of Asset and Health Dynamics Among the Oldest Old (AHEAD). Dyadic data from husbands and wives were analyzed with multilevel modeling. Husbands' and wives' depressive symptoms were moderately correlated, gender and race/ethnicity (and their interaction) predicted depressive symptoms, and both individual-level and couple-level characteristics were significant covariates. Similarities as well as differences are noted between the HRS and AHEAD results. Results highlight the importance of dyadic data and multilevel models for understanding depressive symptomatology in married couples. The influence of race/ethnicity merits greater attention in future research. Differences in findings between HRS and AHEAD suggest life-course, cohort, or methodological influences.

[Coupling coordinated development of ecological-economic system in Loess Plateau].

PubMed

Zhang, Qing-Feng; Wu, Fa-Qi; Wang, Li; Wang, Jian

2011-06-01

Based on system theory, a coupling coordinated development model of ecological-economic system in Loess Plateau was established, and the evaluation criteria and basic types of the coordinated development of the ecological-economic system were proposed. The county-level coupling coordinated development of the ecological-economic system was also discussed, based on the local characteristics. The interactions between the ecological and economic systems in Loess Plateau could be divided into four stages, i.e., seriously disordered development stage, mild-disordered development stage, low-level coordinated development stage, and high level well-coordinated development stage. At each stage, there existed a cyclic process of profit and loss-antagonist-running-dominant-synchronous development. The coupling development degree of the ecological-economic system in Loess Plateau was overall at a lower level, being about 62.7% of the counties at serious disorder, 30.1% of the counties at mild disorder, and 7.1% of the counties at low but coordinated level. The coupling development degree based on the model established in this study could better reflect the current social-economic and ecological environment situations, especially the status of coordination. To fully understand the coupling of ecological-economic system and to adopt appropriate development mode would be of significance to promote the county-level coordinated development in Loess Plateau.

[Spatial-temporal evolution characteristic of coordination between urbanization and eco-environment in Jilin Province, Northeast China].

PubMed

Tan, Jun-tao; Zhang, Ping-yu; Li, Jing; Liu, Shi-wei

2015-12-01

By building urbanization and eco-environment evaluation index systems, the levels of urbanization and eco-environment, and the degree of their coupling coordination of Jilin Province from 2000 to 2012 were evaluated. The level of comprehensive urbanization showed a continued growth trend, and the economic urbanization contributed the largest share. The eco-environment comprehensive level fluctuated upward. The eco-environment state, response and pressure increased faster since the implementation of the strategy of revitalizing Northeast China and other old industrial regions. Coupling coordination degree between urbanization and eco-environment increased continuously, from uncoordinated status to advanced coordinated status, changing from eco-environment lagged to urbanization lagged. The level of urbanization in central region was higher than east and west regions in Jilin Province, but its eco-environment level was low. Coupling coordination degree in Changchun was the highest, and that of Baishan was the lowest. Coupling coordination degree of Chang-Ji integrated region was always at the leading level, but the level of eco-environment lagged behind was growing since 2000. Coupling coordination degree of Siping, Liaoyuan, Songyuan and Yanbian increased, but that of Baicheng decreased.

A Dyadic Analysis of Relationships and Health: Does Couple-Level Context Condition Partner Effects?

PubMed Central

Barr, Ashley B.; Simons, Ronald L.

2014-01-01

Adding to the growing literature explicating the links between romantic relationships and health, this study examined how both couple-level characteristics, particularly union type (e.g. dating, cohabiting, or marriage) and interracial pairing, and interpersonal characteristics (e.g. partner strain and support) predicted young adults’ physical and mental health. Using dyadic data from a sample of 249 young, primarily African American couples, we hypothesized and found support for the importance of couple-level context, partner behavior, and their interaction in predicting health. Interracial couples (all Black/non-Black pairings) reported worse health than monoracial Black couples. Union type, however, did not directly predict health but was a significant moderator of partner strain. That is, the negative association between partner strain and self-reported health was stronger for cohabiting and married couples versus their dating counterparts, suggesting that coresidence more so than marital status may be important for understanding partner effects on physical health. For psychological distress, however, partner support proved equally beneficial across union types. PMID:25090254

A dyadic analysis of relationships and health: does couple-level context condition partner effects?

PubMed

Barr, Ashley B; Simons, Ronald L

2014-08-01

Adding to the growing literature explicating the links between romantic relationships and health, this study examined how both couple-level characteristics, particularly union type (e.g., dating, cohabiting, or marriage) and interracial pairing, and interpersonal characteristics (e.g., partner strain and support), predicted young adults' physical and mental health. Using dyadic data from a sample of 249 young, primarily Black couples, we hypothesized and found support for the importance of couple-level context, partner behavior, and their interaction in predicting health. Interracial couples (all Black/non-Black pairings) reported worse health than monoracial Black couples. Union type, however, did not directly predict health but was a significant moderator of partner strain. That is, the negative association between partner strain and self-reported health was stronger for cohabiting and married couples versus their dating counterparts, suggesting that coresidence, more so than marital status, may be important for understanding partner effects on physical health. For psychological distress, however, partner support proved equally beneficial across union types.

Impact of marriage on HIV/AIDS risk behaviors among impoverished, at-risk couples: a multilevel latent variable approach.

PubMed

Stein, Judith A; Nyamathi, Adeline; Ullman, Jodie B; Bentler, Peter M

2007-01-01

Studies among normative samples generally demonstrate a positive impact of marriage on health behaviors and other related attitudes. In this study, we examine the impact of marriage on HIV/AIDS risk behaviors and attitudes among impoverished, highly stressed, homeless couples, many with severe substance abuse problems. A multilevel analysis of 368 high-risk sexually intimate married and unmarried heterosexual couples assessed individual and couple-level effects on social support, substance use problems, HIV/AIDS knowledge, perceived HIV/AIDS risk, needle-sharing, condom use, multiple sex partners, and HIV/AIDS testing. More variance was explained in the protective and risk variables by couple-level latent variable predictors than by individual latent variable predictors, although some gender effects were found (e.g., more alcohol problems among men). The couple-level variable of marriage predicted lower perceived risk, less deviant social support, and fewer sex partners but predicted more needle-sharing.

The interplay between interpersonal stress and psychological intimate partner violence over time for young at-risk couples.

PubMed

Shortt, Joann Wu; Capaldi, Deborah M; Kim, Hyoun K; Tiberio, Stacey S

2013-04-01

The substantial number of young people in romantic relationships that involve intimate partner violence, a situation deleterious to physical and mental health, has resulted in increased attention to understanding the links between risk factors and course of violence. The current study examined couples' interpersonal stress related to not liking partners' friends and not getting along with parents as contextual factors associated with couples' psychological partner violence and determined whether and when couples' friend and parent stress increased the likelihood of couples' psychological partner violence. A linear latent growth curve modeling approach was used with multiwave measures of psychological partner violence, friend stress, parent stress, and relationship satisfaction obtained from 196 men at risk for delinquency and their women partners over a 12-year period. At the initial assessment, on average, the men were age 21.5 years and the women were age 21 years. Findings indicated that couples experiencing high levels of friend and parent stress were more likely to engage in high levels of psychological partner violence and that increases in couples' friend stress predicted increases in couples' partner violence over time, even when accounting for the couples' relationship satisfaction, marital status, children in the home, and financial strain. Interactive effects were at play when the couples were in their early 20s, with couples being most at risk for increases in psychological partner violence if they experienced both high friend stress and low relationship satisfaction. Couples' friend stress had the greatest effect on psychological partner violence when the couples were in their early to mid 20s when levels of friend stress were high. As the couples reached their 30s, low relationship satisfaction became the leading predictor of couples' psychological partner violence.

The effect of daily challenges in children with autism on parents' couple problem-solving interactions.

PubMed

Hartley, Sigan L; Papp, Lauren M; Blumenstock, Shari M; Floyd, Frank; Goetz, Greta L

2016-09-01

The vulnerability-stress-adaptation model guided this examination of the impact of daily fluctuations in the symptoms and co-occurring behavior problems of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) on parents' couple problem-solving interactions in natural settings and as these interactions spontaneously occur. A 14-day daily diary was completed by mothers and fathers in 176 families who had a child with ASD. On each day of the diary, parents separately reported on the child with ASD's daily level of symptoms and co-occurring behavior problems and the topic and level of negative affect in their most meaningful or important daily couple problem-solving interaction. Multilevel modeling was used to account for the within-person, within-couple nested structure of the data. Results indicated that many parents are resilient to experiencing a day with a high level of child ASD symptoms and co-occurring behavior problems and do not report more negative couple problem-solving interactions. However, household income, level of parental broader autism phenotype, and presence of multiple children with special care needs served as vulnerability factors in that they were related to a higher overall rating of negative affect in couple interactions and moderated the impact of reporting a day with a high level of child ASD symptoms and co-occurring behavior problems on next-day ratings of negative couple problem-solving interactions. The magnitude of these effects was small. Understanding mechanisms that support adaptive couple interactions in parents of children with ASD is critical for promoting best outcomes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

The Effect of Daily Challenges in Children with Autism on Parents’ Couple Problem-Solving Interactions

PubMed Central

Hartley, Sigan L.; Papp, Lauren M.; Blumenstock, Shari; Floyd, Frank; Goetz, Greta L.

2016-01-01

The vulnerability-stress-adaptation model guided this examination of the impact of daily fluctuations in the symptoms and co-occurring behavior problems of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) on parents’ couple problem-solving interactions in natural settings and as these interactions spontaneously occur. A 14-day daily diary was completed by mothers and fathers in 176 families who had a child with ASD. On each day of the diary, parents separately reported on the child with ASD's daily level of symptoms and co-occurring behavior problems and the topic and level of negative affect in their most meaningful or important daily couple problem-solving interaction. Multilevel modeling was used to account for the within-person, within-couple nested structure of the data. Results indicated that many parents are resilient to experiencing a day with a high level of child ASD symptoms and co-occurring behavior problems and do not report more negative couple problem-solving interactions. However, household income, level of parental broader autism phenotype, and presence of multiple children with special care needs served as vulnerability factors in that they were related to a higher overall rating of negative affect in couple interactions and moderated the impact of reporting a day with a high level of child ASD symptoms and co-occurring behavior problems on next-day ratings of negative couple problem-solving interactions. The magnitude of these effects was small. Understanding mechanisms that support adaptive couple interactions in parents of children with ASD is critical for promoting best outcomes. PMID:27336179

Single-photon-driven high-order sideband transitions in an ultrastrongly coupled circuit-quantum-electrodynamics system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Zhen; Wang, Yimin; Li, Tiefu; Tian, Lin; Qiu, Yueyin; Inomata, Kunihiro; Yoshihara, Fumiki; Han, Siyuan; Nori, Franco; Tsai, J. S.; You, J. Q.

2017-07-01

We report the experimental observation of high-order sideband transitions at the single-photon level in a quantum circuit system of a flux qubit ultrastrongly coupled to a coplanar waveguide resonator. With the coupling strength reaching 10% of the resonator's fundamental frequency, we obtain clear signatures of higher order red-sideband and first-order blue-sideband transitions, which are mainly due to the ultrastrong Rabi coupling. Our observation advances the understanding of ultrastrongly coupled systems and paves the way to study high-order processes in the quantum Rabi model at the single-photon level.

On the effect of acoustic coupling on random and harmonic plate vibrations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frendi, A.; Robinson, J. H.

1993-01-01

The effect of acoustic coupling on random and harmonic plate vibrations is studied using two numerical models. In the coupled model, the plate response is obtained by integration of the nonlinear plate equation coupled with the nonlinear Euler equations for the surrounding acoustic fluid. In the uncoupled model, the nonlinear plate equation with an equivalent linear viscous damping term is integrated to obtain the response of the plate subject to the same excitation field. For a low-level, narrow-band excitation, the two models predict the same plate response spectra. As the excitation level is increased, the response power spectrum predicted by the uncoupled model becomes broader and more shifted towards the high frequencies than that obtained by the coupled model. In addition, the difference in response between the coupled and uncoupled models at high frequencies becomes larger. When a high intensity harmonic excitation is used, causing a nonlinear plate response, both models predict the same frequency content of the response. However, the level of the harmonics and subharmonics are higher for the uncoupled model. Comparisons to earlier experimental and numerical results show that acoustic coupling has a significant effect on the plate response at high excitation levels. Its absence in previous models may explain the discrepancy between predicted and measured responses.

Ligands raise the constraint that limits constitutive activation in G protein-coupled opioid receptors.

PubMed

Vezzi, Vanessa; Onaran, H Ongun; Molinari, Paola; Guerrini, Remo; Balboni, Gianfranco; Calò, Girolamo; Costa, Tommaso

2013-08-16

Using a cell-free bioluminescence resonance energy transfer strategy we compared the levels of spontaneous and ligand-induced receptor-G protein coupling in δ (DOP) and μ (MOP) opioid receptors. In this assay GDP can suppress spontaneous coupling, thus allowing its quantification. The level of constitutive activity was 4-5 times greater at the DOP than at the MOP receptor. A series of opioid analogues with a common peptidomimetic scaffold displayed remarkable inversions of efficacy in the two receptors. Agonists that enhanced coupling above the low intrinsic level of the MOP receptor were inverse agonists in reducing the greater level of constitutive coupling of the DOP receptor. Yet the intrinsic activities of such ligands are identical when scaled over the GDP base line of both receptors. This pattern is in conflict with the predictions of the ternary complex model and the "two state" extensions. According to this theory, the order of spontaneous and ligand-induced coupling cannot be reversed if a shift of the equilibrium between active and inactive forms raises constitutive activation in one receptor type. We propose that constitutive activation results from a lessened intrinsic barrier that restrains spontaneous coupling. Any ligand, regardless of its efficacy, must enhance this constraint to stabilize the ligand-bound complexed form.

Longitudinal changes in spouses' HPA responses: Convergence in cortisol patterns during the early years of marriage.

PubMed

Laws, Holly B; Sayer, Aline G; Pietromonaco, Paula R; Powers, Sally I

2015-11-01

Drawing on theories of bidirectional influence between relationship partners (Butler, 2011; Diamond & Aspinwall, 2003), the authors applied dyadic analytic methods to test convergence in cortisol patterns over time in newlywed couples. Previous studies of bidirectional influence in couples' cortisol levels (Liu, Rovine, Klein, & Almeida, 2013; Papp, Pendry, Simon, & Adam, 2013; Saxbe & Repetti, 2010) found significant covariation in couples' daily cortisol levels over several days, but no studies have tested whether cortisol response similarity increases over time using a longitudinal design. In the present study, 183 opposite sex couples (366 participants) engaged in a conflict discussion in a laboratory visit about 6 months after their marriage, and again about 2 years into the marriage. At each visit, spouses provided saliva samples that indexed cortisol levels before, during, and after the discussion. This multimeasure procedure enabled modeling of spouses' cortisol trajectories around the conflict discussion. Findings showed significant convergence in couples' cortisol trajectories across the early years of marriage; couples showed significantly greater similarity in cortisol trajectories around the conflict discussion as their relationship matured. Cohabitation length predicted stronger convergence in cortisol slopes prior to the conflict discussion. Couples' relationship dissatisfaction was associated with a greater degree of convergence in spouses' acute cortisol levels during the conflict discussion. Findings suggest that spouses increasingly shape each other's cortisol responses as their relationship matures. Findings also indicated that increased similarity in acute cortisol levels during conflict may be associated with poorer relationship functioning. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Quantifying translational coupling in E. coli synthetic operons using RBS modulation and fluorescent reporters.

PubMed

Levin-Karp, Ayelet; Barenholz, Uri; Bareia, Tasneem; Dayagi, Michal; Zelcbuch, Lior; Antonovsky, Niv; Noor, Elad; Milo, Ron

2013-06-21

Translational coupling is the interdependence of translation efficiency of neighboring genes encoded within an operon. The degree of coupling may be quantified by measuring how the translation rate of a gene is modulated by the translation rate of its upstream gene. Translational coupling was observed in prokaryotic operons several decades ago, but the quantitative range of modulation translational coupling leads to and the factors governing this modulation were only partially characterized. In this study, we systematically quantify and characterize translational coupling in E. coli synthetic operons using a library of plasmids carrying fluorescent reporter genes that are controlled by a set of different ribosome binding site (RBS) sequences. The downstream gene expression level is found to be enhanced by the upstream gene expression via translational coupling with the enhancement level varying from almost no coupling to over 10-fold depending on the upstream gene's sequence. Additionally, we find that the level of translational coupling in our system is similar between the second and third locations in the operon. The coupling depends on the distance between the stop codon of the upstream gene and the start codon of the downstream gene. This study is the first to systematically and quantitatively characterize translational coupling in a synthetic E. coli operon. Our analysis will be useful in accurate manipulation of gene expression in synthetic biology and serves as a step toward understanding the mechanisms involved in translational expression modulation.

Low Level Pro-inflammatory Cytokines Decrease Connexin36 Gap Junction Coupling in Mouse and Human Islets through Nitric Oxide-mediated Protein Kinase Cδ*

PubMed Central

Farnsworth, Nikki L.; Walter, Rachelle L.; Hemmati, Alireza; Westacott, Matthew J.; Benninger, Richard K. P.

2016-01-01

Pro-inflammatory cytokines contribute to the decline in islet function during the development of diabetes. Cytokines can disrupt insulin secretion and calcium dynamics; however, the mechanisms underlying this are poorly understood. Connexin36 gap junctions coordinate glucose-induced calcium oscillations and pulsatile insulin secretion across the islet. Loss of gap junction coupling disrupts these dynamics, similar to that observed during the development of diabetes. This study investigates the mechanisms by which pro-inflammatory cytokines mediate gap junction coupling. Specifically, as cytokine-induced NO can activate PKCδ, we aimed to understand the role of PKCδ in modulating cytokine-induced changes in gap junction coupling. Isolated mouse and human islets were treated with varying levels of a cytokine mixture containing TNF-α, IL-1β, and IFN-γ. Islet dysfunction was measured by insulin secretion, calcium dynamics, and gap junction coupling. Modulators of PKCδ and NO were applied to determine their respective roles in modulating gap junction coupling. High levels of cytokines caused cell death and decreased insulin secretion. Low levels of cytokine treatment disrupted calcium dynamics and decreased gap junction coupling, in the absence of disruptions to insulin secretion. Decreases in gap junction coupling were dependent on NO-regulated PKCδ, and altered membrane organization of connexin36. This study defines several mechanisms underlying the disruption to gap junction coupling under conditions associated with the development of diabetes. These mechanisms will allow for greater understanding of islet dysfunction and suggest ways to ameliorate this dysfunction during the development of diabetes. PMID:26668311

Magnetized or Unmagnetized: Ambiguity Persists Following Galileo's Encounters with Io in 1999 and 2000

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kivelson, Margaret G.; Khurana, Krishan K.; Russell, Christopher T.; Joy, Steven P.; Volwerk, Martin; Walker, Raymond J.; Zimmer, Christophe; Linker, Jon A.

2001-01-01

Magnetometer data from Galileo's close encounters with Io do not establish absolutely either the existence or absence of an internal magnetic moment because the measurements were made in regions where plasma currents contribute sizable magnetic perturbations. Data from an additional encounter where the closest approaches were made beneath Io's south polar regions, were lost. The recent passes enhance our understanding of the interaction of Io and its flux tube with the torus, and narrows the limits on possible internal sources of magnetic fields. Simple field-draping arguments account for some aspects of the observed rotations. Analyses in terms of both a magnetized and an unmagnetized Io are considered. Data from the February 2000 pass disqualify a strongly magnetized Io (surface equatorial field stronger than the background field) but do not disqualify a weakly magnetized Io (surface equatorial field of the order of Ganymede's but smaller than the background field at Io). Models imply that if Io is magnetized, its magnetic moment is not absolutely antialigned with the rotation axis. The inferred tilt is consistent with contributions from an inductive field on the order of those observed at Europa and Callisto. The currents would flow in the outer mantle or aesthenosphere if an induced field is present. Wave perturbations differing on flux tubes that do or do not link directly to Io and its ionosphere suggest the following: (1) the latter flux tubes are almost stagnant in Io's frame; and (2) a unipolar inductor correctly models the currents linking Io to Jupiter's ionosphere.

Distinguishing black-hole spin-orbit resonances by their gravitational-wave signatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gerosa, Davide; O'Shaughnessy, Richard; Kesden, Michael; Berti, Emanuele; Sperhake, Ulrich

2014-06-01

If binary black holes form following the successive core collapses of sufficiently massive binary stars, precessional dynamics may align their spins, Smathvariant="bold">1 and Smathvariant="bold">2, and the orbital angular momentum L into a plane in which they jointly precess about the total angular momentum J. These spin orientations are known as spin-orbit resonances since S1, S2, and L all precess at the same frequency to maintain their planar configuration. Two families of such spin-orbit resonances exist, differentiated by whether the components of the two spins in the orbital plane are either aligned or antialigned. The fraction of binary black holes in each family is determined by the stellar evolution of their progenitors, so if gravitational-wave detectors could measure this fraction they could provide important insights into astrophysical formation scenarios for binary black holes. In this paper, we show that even under the conservative assumption that binary black holes are observed along the direction of J (where precession-induced modulations to the gravitational waveforms are minimized), the waveforms of many members of each resonant family can be distinguished from all members of the other family in events with signal-to-noise ratios ρ ≃10, typical of those expected for the first detections with Advanced LIGO and Virgo. We hope that our preliminary findings inspire a greater appreciation of the capability of gravitational-wave detectors to constrain stellar astrophysics and stimulate further studies of the distinguishability of spin-orbit resonant families in more expanded regions of binary black-hole parameter space.

Energy-level repulsion by spin-orbit coupling in two-dimensional Rydberg excitons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stephanovich, V. A.; Sherman, E. Ya.; Zinner, N. T.; Marchukov, O. V.

2018-05-01

We study the effects of Rashba spin-orbit coupling on two-dimensional Rydberg exciton systems. Using analytical and numerical arguments we demonstrate that this coupling considerably modifies the wave functions and leads to a level repulsion that results in a deviation from the Poissonian statistics of the adjacent level distance distribution. This signifies the crossover to nonintegrability of the system and hints at the possibility of quantum chaos emerging. Such behavior strongly differs from the classical realization, where spin-orbit coupling produces highly entangled, chaotic electron trajectories in an exciton. We also calculate the oscillator strengths and show that randomization appears in the transitions between states with different total momenta.

Quantum thermodynamics of the resonant-level model with driven system-bath coupling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haughian, Patrick; Esposito, Massimiliano; Schmidt, Thomas L.

2018-02-01

We study nonequilibrium thermodynamics in a fermionic resonant-level model with arbitrary coupling strength to a fermionic bath, taking the wide-band limit. In contrast to previous theories, we consider a system where both the level energy and the coupling strength depend explicitly on time. We find that, even in this generalized model, consistent thermodynamic laws can be obtained, up to the second order in the drive speed, by splitting the coupling energy symmetrically between system and bath. We define observables for the system energy, work, heat, and entropy, and calculate them using nonequilibrium Green's functions. We find that the observables fulfill the laws of thermodynamics, and connect smoothly to the known equilibrium results.

Relationship characteristics and contraceptive use among dating and cohabiting young adult couples.

PubMed

Wildsmith, Elizabeth; Manlove, Jennifer; Steward-Streng, Nicole

2015-03-01

Contraceptive decision making occurs in the context of relationships. Although many individual-level characteristics have been linked to youths' contraceptive use, less is known about associations between contraceptive use and relationship-level characteristics. Data from the 2001-2002 romantic pair subsample of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were used to describe characteristics of 322 dating relationships and 406 cohabiting relationships among young adults aged at least 18 years. Logistic regression was employed to assess associations between these characteristics and hormonal or long-acting contraceptive use and condom use. Data from both partners allowed discordance in reports between partners in some measures to be examined. Cohabiting couples were less likely than dating couples to have used condoms (19% vs. 37%) and hormonal or long-acting methods (40% vs. 57%) at last sex. In dating relationships, couples reporting discordant levels of intimacy and couples in which neither partner reported a high level of intimacy had greater odds of condom use than couples in which both partners reported high intimacy (odds ratios, 4.5 and 3.3, respectively); mistrust and male problem drinking were negatively associated with condom use (0.3 for each). For cohabiting couples, frequency of sex was negatively associated with condom use and hormonal method use (0.8 for each). At least for dating couples, contraceptive use is linked to multiple dimensions of relationships, particularly measures reflecting relationship quality-both positive and negative. Copyright © 2015 by the Guttmacher Institute.

Pain Catastrophizing, Pain Intensity, and Dyadic Adjustment Influence Patient and Partner Depression in Metastatic Breast Cancer

PubMed Central

Badr, Hoda; Shen, Megan J.

2015-01-01

Objective Metastatic breast cancer can be challenging for couples given the significant pain and distress caused by the disease and its treatment. While the use of catastrophizing (e.g., ruminating, exaggerating) as a pain coping strategy has been associated with depression in breast cancer patients, little is known about the effects of pain intensity on this association. Moreover, even though social relationships are a fundamental resource for couples coping with cancer, no studies have examined whether the quality of the spousal relationship affects the association between catastrophizing and depression. This study prospectively examined these associations. Methods Couples (N=191) completed surveys at the start of treatment for metastatic breast cancer (baseline), and 3 and 6 months later. Results Multilevel models using the couple as the unit of analysis showed patients and partners (i.e., spouses or significant others) who had high levels (+1SD) of dyadic adjustment (DAS7) experienced fewer depressive symptoms than those who had low levels (−1SD) of dyadic adjustment (ps<.01). Moreover, at low levels of dyadic adjustment, when patients engaged in high levels of catastrophizing and had high levels of pain, both patients and their partners reported significantly (p=.002) higher levels of depression than when patients engaged in high levels of catastrophizing but had low levels of pain. Discussion Findings showed that catastrophizing and pain exacerbate depression in couples experiencing marital distress. Programs that seek to alleviate pain and depressive symptoms in metastatic breast cancer may benefit from targeting both members of the couple, screening for marital distress, and teaching more adaptive pain coping strategies. PMID:24402001

Job Burnout and Couple Burnout in Dual-Earner Couples in the Sandwiched Generation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pines, Ayala Malach; Neal, Margaret B.; Hammer, Leslie B.; Icekson, Tamar

2011-01-01

We use existential theory as a framework to explore the levels of and relationship between job and couple burnout reported by dual-earner couples in the "sandwich generation" (i.e., couples caring both for children and aging parents) in a sample of such couples in Israel and the United States. This comparison enables an examination of…

Wireless Fluid Level Measuring System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, Bryant D. (Inventor); Woodard, Stanley E. (Inventor)

2007-01-01

A level-sensing probe positioned in a tank is divided into sections with each section including (i) a fluid-level capacitive sensor disposed along the length thereof, (ii) an inductor electrically coupled to the capacitive sensor, (iii) a sensor antenna positioned for inductive coupling to the inductor, and (iv) an electrical conductor coupled to the sensor antenna. An electrically non-conductive housing accessible from a position outside of the tank houses antennas arrayed in a pattern. Each antenna is electrically coupled to the electrical conductor from a corresponding one of the sections. A magnetic field response recorder has a measurement head with transceiving antennas arrayed therein to correspond to the pattern of the housing's antennas. When a measurement is to be taken, the measurement head is mechanically coupled to the housing so that each housing antenna is substantially aligned with a specific one of the transceiving antennas.

Couple-level Minority Stress: An Examination of Same-sex Couples' Unique Experiences.

PubMed

Frost, David M; LeBlanc, Allen J; de Vries, Brian; Alston-Stepnitz, Eli; Stephenson, Rob; Woodyatt, Cory

2017-12-01

Social stress resulting from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination-"minority stress"-negatively impacts sexual minority individuals' health and relational well-being. The present study examined how being in a same-sex couple can result in exposure to unique minority stressors not accounted for at the individual level. Relationship timeline interviews were conducted with 120 same-sex couples equally distributed across two study sites (Atlanta and San Francisco), gender (male and female), and relationship duration (at least six months but less than three years, at least three years but less than seven years, and seven or more years). Directed content analyses identified 17 unique couple-level minority stressors experienced within nine distinct social contexts. Analyses also revealed experiences of dyadic minority stress processes (stress discrepancies and stress contagion). These findings can be useful in future efforts to better understand and address the cumulative impact of minority stress on relational well-being and individual health.

Work life and mental well-being: single and coupled employed mothers in Southern Europe and Scandinavia.

PubMed

Bull, Torill

2009-09-01

Many European mothers, single and coupled, combine work outside the home and family life. The effects of this on their mental well-being may vary depending on the level of support available from the State's welfare system, since welfare may buffer working mothers from some of the stress that can arise from trying to manage significant responsibilities on the job and at home. Welfare may be especially important for single working mothers, for whom the burden of multiple roles may be even heavier. The present study assessed levels and predictors of well-being of single and coupled employed mothers in Greece, Portugal and Spain, where welfare support is relatively limited. Results were compared to a parallel study with data from Denmark, Norway and Sweden, where welfare support is relatively comprehensive. Coupled mothers in Scandinavia had significantly lower financial hardship, longer education, higher life satisfaction, more enriching jobs, practical support, financial support and social participation than coupled mothers in the Southern European sample. On the other hand, the Scandinavian coupled mothers had higher levels of work family conflict than coupled mothers in Southern Europe. Single mothers in Scandinavia, compared to single mothers in Southern Europe, had significantly longer education, higher life satisfaction and positive affect, more enriching jobs, confidant support, practical support, financial support and social participation. Level of job stress was the same for all mother groups. All groups differed significantly from each other in level of financial hardship, with Scandinavian coupled mothers being best off, followed by Scandinavian single mothers, Southern European coupled mothers, and Southern European single mothers. The regional differences suggest that single motherhood per se need not be a risk factor for poorer well-being, and that welfare policies may have a protective effect for the mental well-being of single mothers.

Low Level Pro-inflammatory Cytokines Decrease Connexin36 Gap Junction Coupling in Mouse and Human Islets through Nitric Oxide-mediated Protein Kinase Cδ.

PubMed

Farnsworth, Nikki L; Walter, Rachelle L; Hemmati, Alireza; Westacott, Matthew J; Benninger, Richard K P

2016-02-12

Pro-inflammatory cytokines contribute to the decline in islet function during the development of diabetes. Cytokines can disrupt insulin secretion and calcium dynamics; however, the mechanisms underlying this are poorly understood. Connexin36 gap junctions coordinate glucose-induced calcium oscillations and pulsatile insulin secretion across the islet. Loss of gap junction coupling disrupts these dynamics, similar to that observed during the development of diabetes. This study investigates the mechanisms by which pro-inflammatory cytokines mediate gap junction coupling. Specifically, as cytokine-induced NO can activate PKCδ, we aimed to understand the role of PKCδ in modulating cytokine-induced changes in gap junction coupling. Isolated mouse and human islets were treated with varying levels of a cytokine mixture containing TNF-α, IL-1β, and IFN-γ. Islet dysfunction was measured by insulin secretion, calcium dynamics, and gap junction coupling. Modulators of PKCδ and NO were applied to determine their respective roles in modulating gap junction coupling. High levels of cytokines caused cell death and decreased insulin secretion. Low levels of cytokine treatment disrupted calcium dynamics and decreased gap junction coupling, in the absence of disruptions to insulin secretion. Decreases in gap junction coupling were dependent on NO-regulated PKCδ, and altered membrane organization of connexin36. This study defines several mechanisms underlying the disruption to gap junction coupling under conditions associated with the development of diabetes. These mechanisms will allow for greater understanding of islet dysfunction and suggest ways to ameliorate this dysfunction during the development of diabetes. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Mental distress predicts divorce over 16 years: the HUNT study.

PubMed

Idstad, Mariann; Torvik, Fartein Ask; Borren, Ingrid; Rognmo, Kamilla; Røysamb, Espen; Tambs, Kristian

2015-04-01

The association between mental distress and divorce is well established in the literature. Explanations are commonly classified within two different frameworks; social selection (mentally distressed people are selected out of marriage) and social causation (divorce causes mental distress). Despite a relatively large body of literature on this subject, selection effects are somewhat less studied, and research based on data from both spouses is scarce. The purpose of the present study is to investigate selection effects both at the individual level and the couple level. The current study is based on couple-level data from a Norwegian representative sample including 20,233 couples. Long-term selection effects were tested for by means of Cox proportional hazard models, using mental distress in both partners at baseline as predictors of divorce the next 16 years. Three identical sets of analyses were run. The first included the total sample, whereas the second and third excluded couples who divorced within the first 4 or 8 years after baseline, respectively. An interaction term between mental distress in husband and in wife was specified and tested. Hazard of divorce was significantly higher in couples with one mentally distressed partner than in couples with no mental distress in all analyses. There was also a significant interaction effect showing that the hazard of divorce for couples with two mentally distressed partners was higher than for couples with one mentally distressed partner, but lower than what could be expected from the combined main effects of two mentally distressed partners. Our results suggest that mentally distressed individuals are selected out of marriage. We also found support for a couple-level effect in which spouse similarity in mental distress to a certain degree seems to protect against divorce.

Recent theoretical advances on superradiant phase transitions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baksic, Alexandre; Nataf, Pierre; Ciuti, Cristiano

2013-03-01

The Dicke model describing a single-mode boson field coupled to two-level systems is an important paradigm in quantum optics. In particular, the physics of ``superradiant phase transitions'' in the ultrastrong coupling regime is the subject of a vigorous research activity in both cavity and circuit QED. Recently, we explored the rich physics of two interesting generalizations of the Dicke model: (i) A model describing the coupling of a boson mode to two independent chains A and B of two-level systems, where chain A is coupled to one quadrature of the boson field and chain B to the orthogonal quadrature. This original model leads to a quantum phase transition with a double symmetry breaking and a fourfold ground state degeneracy. (ii) A generalized Dicke model with three-level systems including the diamagnetic term. In contrast to the case of two-level atoms for which no-go theorems exist, in the case of three-level system we prove that the Thomas-Reich-Kuhn sum rule does not always prevent a superradiant phase transition.

Energy levels of double triangular graphene quantum dots

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liang, F. X.; Jiang, Z. T., E-mail: ztjiang616@hotmail.com; Zhang, H. Y.

2014-09-28

We investigate theoretically the energy levels of the coupled double triangular graphene quantum dots (GQDs) based on the tight-binding Hamiltonian model. The double GQDs including the ZZ-type, ZA-type, and AA-type GQDs with the two GQDs having the zigzag or armchair boundaries can be coupled together via different interdot connections, such as the direct coupling, the chains of benzene rings, and those of carbon atoms. It is shown that the energy spectrum of the coupled double GQDs is the amalgamation of those spectra of the corresponding two isolated GQDs with the modification triggered by the interdot connections. The interdot connection ismore » inclined to lift up the degeneracies of the energy levels in different degree, and as the connection changes from the direct coupling to the long chains, the removal of energy degeneracies is suppressed in ZZ-type and AA-type double GQDs, which indicates that the two coupled GQDs are inclined to become decoupled. Then we consider the influences on the spectra of the coupled double GQDs induced by the electric fields applied on the GQDs or the connection, which manifests as the global spectrum redistribution or the local energy level shift. Finally, we study the symmetrical and asymmetrical energy spectra of the double GQDs caused by the substrates supporting the two GQDs, clearly demonstrating how the substrates affect the double GQDs' spectrum. This research elucidates the energy spectra of the coupled double GQDs, as well as the mechanics of manipulating them by the electric field and the substrates, which would be a significant reference for designing GQD-based devices.« less

Evolvable synthetic neural system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curtis, Steven A. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

An evolvable synthetic neural system includes an evolvable neural interface operably coupled to at least one neural basis function. Each neural basis function includes an evolvable neural interface operably coupled to a heuristic neural system to perform high-level functions and an autonomic neural system to perform low-level functions. In some embodiments, the evolvable synthetic neural system is operably coupled to one or more evolvable synthetic neural systems in a hierarchy.

First example of a high-level correlated calculation of the indirect spin-spin coupling constants involving tellurium: tellurophene and divinyl telluride.

PubMed

Rusakov, Yury Yu; Krivdin, Leonid B; Østerstrøm, Freja F; Sauer, Stephan P A; Potapov, Vladimir A; Amosova, Svetlana V

2013-08-21

This paper documents the very first example of a high-level correlated calculation of spin-spin coupling constants involving tellurium taking into account relativistic effects, vibrational corrections and solvent effects for medium sized organotellurium molecules. The (125)Te-(1)H spin-spin coupling constants of tellurophene and divinyl telluride were calculated at the SOPPA and DFT levels, in good agreement with experimental data. A new full-electron basis set, av3z-J, for tellurium derived from the "relativistic" Dyall's basis set, dyall.av3z, and specifically optimized for the correlated calculations of spin-spin coupling constants involving tellurium was developed. The SOPPA method shows a much better performance compared to DFT, if relativistic effects calculated within the ZORA scheme are taken into account. Vibrational and solvent corrections are next to negligible, while conformational averaging is of prime importance in the calculation of (125)Te-(1)H spin-spin couplings. Based on the performed calculations at the SOPPA(CCSD) level, a marked stereospecificity of geminal and vicinal (125)Te-(1)H spin-spin coupling constants originating in the orientational lone pair effect of tellurium has been established, which opens a new guideline in organotellurium stereochemistry.

Diene Hydroacylation from the Alcohol or Aldehyde Oxidation Level via Ruthenium Catalyzed C-C Bond Forming Transfer Hydrogenation: Synthesis of β,γ-Unsaturated Ketones

PubMed Central

Shibahara, Fumitoshi; Bower, John F.; Krische, Michael J.

2011-01-01

Under the conditions of ruthenium catalyzed transfer hydrogenation, isoprene couples to benzylic and aliphatic alcohols 1a–1g to deliver β,γ-unsaturated ketones 3a–3g in good to excellent isolated yields. Under identical conditions, aldehydes 2a–2g couple to isoprene to provide an identical set of β,γ-unsaturated ketones 3a–3g in good to excellent isolated yields. As demonstrated by the coupling of butadiene, myrcene and 1,2-dimethylbutadiene to representative alcohols 1b, 1c and 1e, diverse acyclic dienes participate in transfer hydrogenative coupling to form β,γ-unsaturated ketones. In all cases, complete branch-regioselectivity is observed and, with the exception of adduct 3j, isomerization to the conjugated enone is not detected. Thus, formal intermolecular diene hydroacylation is achieved from the alcohol or aldehyde oxidation level. In earlier studies employing a related ruthenium catalyst, acyclic dienes were coupled to carbonyl partners from the alcohol or aldehyde oxidation level to furnish branched homoallylic alcohols. Thus, under transfer hydrogenative coupling conditions, all oxidations levels of substrate (alcohol or aldehyde) and product (homoallyl alcohol or β,γ-unsaturated ketone) are accessible. PMID:18841895

Gender and the Residential Mobility and Neighborhood Attainment of Black-White Couples.

PubMed

Gabriel, Ryan

2018-04-01

Including black-white couples in the study of residential stratification accentuates gendered power disparities within couples that favor men over women, which allows for the analysis of whether the race of male partners in black-white couples is associated with the racial and ethnic composition of their neighborhoods. I investigate this by combining longitudinal data between 1985 and 2015 from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics linked to neighborhood- and metropolitan-level data compiled from four censuses. Using these data, I assess the mobility of black male-white female and white male-black female couples out of and into neighborhoods defined respectively by their levels of whites, blacks, and ethnoracial diversity. My results show that the race of the male partner in black-white couples tends to align with the racial and ethnic composition of the neighborhoods where these couples reside. This finding highlights that the racial hierarchy within the United States affects the residential mobility and attainment of black-white couples, but its influence is conditioned by the race and gender composition of these couples.

Continuum Level Density of a Coupled-Channel System in the Complex Scaling Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, R.; Kruppa, A. T.; Giraud, B. G.; Katō, K.

2008-06-01

We study the continuum level density (CLD) in the formalism of the complex scaling method (CSM) for coupled-channel systems. We apply the formalism to the ^{4}He = [^{3}H + p] + [^3{He} + n] coupled-channel cluster model where there are resonances at low energy. Numerical calculations of the CLD in the CSM with a finite number of L^{2} basis functions are consistent with the exact result calculated from the S-matrix by solving coupled-channel equations. We also study channel densities. In this framework, the extended completeness relation (ECR) plays an important role.

Microcavities coupled to multilevel atoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmid, Sandra Isabelle; Evers, Jörg

2011-11-01

A three-level atom in the Λ configuration coupled to a microcavity is studied. The two transitions of the atom are assumed to couple to different counterpropagating mode pairs in the cavity. We analyze the dynamics both in the strong-coupling and the bad-cavity limits. We find that, compared to a two-level setup, the third atomic state and the additional control field modes crucially modify the system dynamics and enable more advanced control schemes. All results are explained using appropriate dressed-state and eigenmode representations. As potential applications, we discuss optical switching and turnstile operations and detection of particles close to the resonator surface.

Multiple Temperature-Sensing Behavior of Green and Red Upconversion Emissions from Stark Sublevels of Er³⁺.

PubMed

Cao, Baosheng; Wu, Jinlei; Wang, Xuehan; He, Yangyang; Feng, Zhiqing; Dong, Bin

2015-12-10

Upconversion luminescence properties from the emissions of Stark sublevels of Er(3+) were investigated in Er(3+)-Yb(3+)-Mo(6+)-codoped TiO₂ phosphors in this study. According to the energy levels split from Er(3+), green and red emissions from the transitions of four coupled energy levels, ²H11/2(I)/²H11/2(II), ⁴S3/2(I)/⁴S3/2(II), ⁴F9/2(I)/⁴F9/2(II), and ²H11/2(I) + ²H11/2(II)/⁴S3/2(I) + ⁴S3/2(II), were observed under 976 nm laser diode excitation. By utilizing the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) technique, temperature-dependent upconversion emissions from these four coupled energy levels were analyzed at length. The optical temperature-sensing behaviors of sensing sensitivity, measurement error, and operating temperature for the four coupled energy levels are discussed, all of which are closely related to the energy gap of the coupled energy levels, FIR value, and luminescence intensity. Experimental results suggest that Er(3+)-Yb(3+)-Mo(6+)-codoped TiO₂ phosphor with four pairs of energy levels coupled by Stark sublevels provides a new and effective route to realize multiple optical temperature-sensing through a wide range of temperatures in an independent system.

Direct handling of equality constraints in multilevel optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Renaud, John E.; Gabriele, Gary A.

1990-01-01

In recent years there have been several hierarchic multilevel optimization algorithms proposed and implemented in design studies. Equality constraints are often imposed between levels in these multilevel optimizations to maintain system and subsystem variable continuity. Equality constraints of this nature will be referred to as coupling equality constraints. In many implementation studies these coupling equality constraints have been handled indirectly. This indirect handling has been accomplished using the coupling equality constraints' explicit functional relations to eliminate design variables (generally at the subsystem level), with the resulting optimization taking place in a reduced design space. In one multilevel optimization study where the coupling equality constraints were handled directly, the researchers encountered numerical difficulties which prevented their multilevel optimization from reaching the same minimum found in conventional single level solutions. The researchers did not explain the exact nature of the numerical difficulties other than to associate them with the direct handling of the coupling equality constraints. The coupling equality constraints are handled directly, by employing the Generalized Reduced Gradient (GRG) method as the optimizer within a multilevel linear decomposition scheme based on the Sobieski hierarchic algorithm. Two engineering design examples are solved using this approach. The results show that the direct handling of coupling equality constraints in a multilevel optimization does not introduce any problems when the GRG method is employed as the internal optimizer. The optimums achieved are comparable to those achieved in single level solutions and in multilevel studies where the equality constraints have been handled indirectly.

Couple-Focused Prevention at the Transition to Parenthood, a Randomized Trial: Effects on Coparenting, Parenting, Family Violence, and Parent and Child Adjustment.

PubMed

Feinberg, Mark E; Jones, Damon E; Hostetler, Michelle L; Roettger, Michael E; Paul, Ian M; Ehrenthal, Deborah B

2016-08-01

The transition to parenthood is a stressful period for most parents as individuals and as couples, with variability in parent mental health and couple relationship functioning linked to children's long-term emotional, mental health, and academic outcomes. Few couple-focused prevention programs targeting this period have been shown to be effective. The purpose of this study was to test the short-term efficacy of a brief, universal, transition-to-parenthood intervention (Family Foundations) and report the results of this randomized trial at 10 months postpartum. This was a randomized controlled trial; 399 couples expecting their first child were randomly assigned to intervention or control conditions after pretest. Intervention couples received a manualized nine-session (five prenatal and four postnatal classes) psychoeducational program delivered in small groups. Intent-to-treat analyses indicated that intervention couples demonstrated better posttest levels than control couples on more than two thirds of measures of coparenting, parent mental health, parenting, child adjustment, and family violence. Program effects on family violence were particularly large. Of eight outcome variables that did not demonstrate main effects, seven showed moderated intervention impact; such that, intervention couples at higher levels of risk during pregnancy showed better outcomes than control couples at similar levels of risk. These findings replicate a prior smaller study of Family Foundations, indicating that the Family Foundations approach to supporting couples making the transition to parenthood can have broad impact for parents, family relationships, and children's adjustment. Program effects are consistent and benefit all families, with particularly notable effects for families at elevated prenatal risk.

Four-Photon Stark Induced Ladder Climbing Prepares Large Ensemble of H2in Selected High Lying Vibrational Levels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukherjee, Nandini; Perreault, William; Zare, Richard

2017-04-01

To selectively prepare highly vibrationally excited quantum states of molecules like H2, we present a novel multi-photon ladder-climbing technique where the successive rungs of the ladder are connected by Stark-induced adiabatic Raman passage (SARP). Previously, we have demonstrated that SARP achieves complete population transfer from the v = 0 to the v = 1 and v = 4 levels of H2. We show here that SARP can be generalized into a continuously coupled, multiphoton adiabatic passage which uses one or more intermediate states having strong Raman coupling to access highly vibrationally excited states weakly coupled to the ground state. As an example, we consider the case of four-photon coherent excitation to high vibrational levels of H2 via an intermediate level coupled to both the initial and target levels by two-photon SARP. Using a sequence of commercially available single mode, nanosecond lasers, a pump pulse partially overlapping with two Stokes pulses, we show that the complete population of v = 0 can be selectively transferred to the most weakly coupled v = 6 and v = 9 vibrational levels of H2, without leaving any population stranded in the intermediate level. The present method provides a practical way of generating an entangled pair of fragments without resorting to an ultracold system. This work has been supported by US Army Research Office under ARO Grant No. W911NF-16-1-1061.

Marital Adjustment of Graduate Student Couples.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McRoy, Sue; Fisher, Virginia L.

1982-01-01

Comparisons of graduate student couples indicated lower levels of marital adjustment (consensus and affection) for couples where only the husband was a student. Suggests variables other than student status may relate to marital adjustment. When only the wife was a student, family income was higher and couples were older. (Author)

40 CFR 201.26 - Procedures for the measurement on receiving property of retarder and car coupling noise.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... maximum A-weighted sound levels (FAST) for every retarder sound observed during the measurement period... performance as appropriate. (2) Data. The maximum A-weighted sound levels (FAST) for every car coupling impact...

A study of electron transfer using a three-level system coupled to an ohmic bath

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Takasu, Masako; Chandler, David

1993-01-01

Electron transfer is studied using a multi-level system coupled to a bosonic bath. Two body correlation functions are obtained using both exact enumeration of spin paths and Monte Carlo simulation. It was found that the phase boundary for the coherent-incoherent transition lies at a smaller friction in the asymmetric two-level model than in the symmetric two-level model. A similar coherent-incoherent transition is observed for three-level system.

Hadronic Lorentz violation in chiral perturbation theory including the coupling to external fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamand, Rasha; Altschul, Brett; Schindler, Matthias R.

2018-05-01

If any violation of Lorentz symmetry exists in the hadron sector, its ultimate origins must lie at the quark level. We continue the analysis of how the theories at these two levels are connected, using chiral perturbation theory. Considering a 2-flavor quark theory, with dimension-4 operators that break Lorentz symmetry, we derive a low-energy theory of pions and nucleons that is invariant under local chiral transformations and includes the coupling to external fields. The pure meson and baryon sectors, as well as the couplings between them and the couplings to external electromagnetic and weak gauge fields, contain forms of Lorentz violation which depend on linear combinations of quark-level coefficients. In particular, at leading order the electromagnetic couplings depend on the very same combinations as appear in the free particle propagators. This means that observations of electromagnetic processes involving hadrons—such as vacuum Cerenkov radiation, which may be allowed in Lorentz-violating theories—can only reliably constrain certain particular combinations of quark coefficients.

Towards a global model of spin-orbit coupling in the halocarbenes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nyambo, Silver; Karshenas, Cyrus; Reid, Scott A., E-mail: scott.reid@marquette.edu, E-mail: dawesr@mst.edu

We report a global analysis of spin-orbit coupling in the mono-halocarbenes, CH(D)X, where X = Cl, Br, and I. These are model systems for examining carbene singlet-triplet energy gaps and spin-orbit coupling. Over the past decade, rich data sets collected using single vibronic level emission spectroscopy and stimulated emission pumping spectroscopy have yielded much information on the ground vibrational level structure and clearly demonstrated the presence of perturbations involving the low-lying triplet state. To model these interactions globally, we compare two approaches. First, we employ a diabatic treatment of the spin-orbit coupling, where the coupling matrix elements are written inmore » terms of a purely electronic spin-orbit matrix element which is independent of nuclear coordinates, and an integral representing the overlap of the singlet and triplet vibrational wavefunctions. In this way, the structures, harmonic frequencies, and normal mode displacements from ab initio calculations were used to calculate the vibrational overlaps of the singlet and triplet state levels, including the full effects of Duschinsky mixing. These calculations have allowed many new assignments to be made, particularly for CHI, and provided spin-orbit coupling parameters and values for the singlet-triplet gaps. In a second approach, we have computed and fit full geometry dependent spin-orbit coupling surfaces and used them to compute matrix elements without the product form approximation. Those matrix elements were used in similar fits varying the anharmonic constants and singlet-triplet gap to reproduce the experimental levels. The derived spin-orbit parameters for carbenes CHX (X = Cl, Br, and I) show an excellent linear correlation with the atomic spin-orbit constant of the corresponding halogen, indicating that the spin-orbit coupling in the carbenes is consistently around 14% of the atomic value.« less

Visual information underpinning skilled anticipation: The effect of blur on a coupled and uncoupled in situ anticipatory response.

PubMed

Mann, David L; Abernethy, Bruce; Farrow, Damian

2010-07-01

Coupled interceptive actions are understood to be the result of neural processing-and visual information-which is distinct from that used for uncoupled perceptual responses. To examine the visual information used for action and perception, skilled cricket batters anticipated the direction of balls bowled toward them using a coupled movement (an interceptive action that preserved the natural coupling between perception and action) or an uncoupled (verbal) response, in each of four different visual blur conditions (plano, +1.00, +2.00, +3.00). Coupled responses were found to be better than uncoupled ones, with the blurring of vision found to result in different effects for the coupled and uncoupled response conditions. Low levels of visual blur did not affect coupled anticipation, a finding consistent with the comparatively poorer visual information on which online interceptive actions are proposed to rely. In contrast, some evidence was found to suggest that low levels of blur may enhance the uncoupled verbal perception of movement.

Predicting Couples' Response to Marital Therapy: A Comparison of Short- and Long-Term Predictors.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Snyder, Douglas K.; And Others

1993-01-01

Examined couples' response to marital therapy at termination and 4 years posttreatment for 55 couples receiving either behavioral or insight-oriented marital therapy. Couples were more likely to be divorced or maritally distressed four years posttreatment if intake measures reflected high levels of negative marital affect, poor problem-solving…

Pre-adoptive Factors Predicting Lesbian, Gay, and Heterosexual Couples’ Relationship Quality Across the Transition to Adoptive Parenthood

PubMed Central

Goldberg, Abbie E.; Smith, JuliAnna Z.; Kashy, Deborah A.

2010-01-01

The current study examined pre-adoptive factors as predictors of relationship quality (love, ambivalence, and conflict) among 125 couples (44 lesbian couples, 30 gay couples, and 51 heterosexual couples) across the first year of adoptive parenthood. On average, all new parents experienced declines in their relationship quality across the first year of parenthood, regardless of sexual orientation, with women experiencing steeper declines in love. Parents who, pre-adoption, reported higher levels of depression, greater use of avoidant coping, lower levels of relationship maintenance behaviors, and less satisfaction with their adoption agencies reported lower relationship quality at the time of the adoption. The effect of avoidant coping on relationship quality varied by gender. Parents who, pre-adoption, reported higher levels of depression, greater use of confrontative coping, and higher levels of relationship maintenance behaviors reported greater declines in relationship quality. These findings have implications for professionals who work with adoptive parents both pre- and post-adoption. PMID:20545395

Transient behaviour of EIT and EIA in an optical-radio two-photon coupling configuration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiaoli; Yang, Zicai; Shang, Yaxuan

2012-11-01

Both electromagnetically induced absorption (EIA) and transparency (EIT) can be obtained in a modified quasi-lambda four level system consisting of an optical-radio two-photon coupling field and a probing field. A physical account of EIA and EIT is given in terms of a transient state picture in this paper. It can be seen that the optical coupling field in this quasi-lambda four level system has a crucial effect on the forming of EIA and EIT. An EIA is observed under a resonant optical coupling and it evolves into an EIT when there is a detuning.

With a little help from our friends: couple social integration in marriage.

PubMed

Barton, Allen W; Futris, Ted G; Nielsen, Robert B

2014-12-01

The benefits of social integration (i.e., structural or affective connectedness with others and with social institutions) have been frequently noted for individuals' personal well-being. In a similar fashion, recent marital research has highlighted how the social integration of a couple also appears to positively affect marital well-being. However, beyond main effects, little research to date has considered whether couples' social integration possesses moderating effects for spouses' marital quality as well. Among a sample of 492 married individuals, the present study explored whether spouses' reports of the social integration of their marriage moderated the associations between (a) financial distress and marital happiness, and (b) residing in more urban areas and marital happiness. Results from latent interaction structural equation modeling revealed a significant interaction between couple social integration and each contextual factor. Specifically, higher levels of couple social integration buffered marital happiness from lower levels associated with greater financial distress and with residing in more urban areas. These results, along with cultural shifts that have led to lower levels of communal ties and involvement throughout society, suggest couple social integration to be a pertinent construct for marital research and enrichment efforts.

Cognitive coupling during reading.

PubMed

Mills, Caitlin; Graesser, Art; Risko, Evan F; D'Mello, Sidney K

2017-06-01

We hypothesize that cognitively engaged readers dynamically adjust their reading times with respect to text complexity (i.e., reading times should increase for difficult sections and decrease for easier ones) and failure to do so should impair comprehension. This hypothesis is consistent with theories of text comprehension but has surprisingly been untested. We tested this hypothesis by analyzing 4 datasets in which participants (N = 484) read expository texts using a self-paced reading paradigm. Participants self-reported mind wandering in response to pseudorandom thought-probes during reading and completed comprehension assessments after reading. We computed two measures of cognitive coupling by regressing each participant's paragraph-level reading times on two measures of text complexity: Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level and Word Concreteness scores. The two coupling measures yielded convergent findings: coupling was a negative predictor of mind wandering and a positive predictor of both text- and inference-level comprehension. Goodness-of-fit, measured with Akaike information criterion, also improved after adding coupling to the reading-time only models. Furthermore, cognitive coupling mediated the relationship between mind wandering and comprehension, supporting the hypothesis that mind wandering engenders a decoupling of attention from external stimuli. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Semen Levels of Spermatid-Specific Thioredoxin-3 Correlate with Pregnancy Rates in ART Couples

PubMed Central

Qiu, Jing; Sutovsky, Miriam; Rawe, Vanesa Y.; Manandhar, Gaurishankar; Miranda-Vizuete, Antonio; Sutovsky, Peter

2013-01-01

Spermatid specific thioredoxin-3 (SPTRX3 or TXNDC8) is a testis/male germ line specific member of thioredoxin family that accumulates in the superfluous cytoplasm of defective human spermatozoa. We hypothesized that semen levels of SPTRX3 are reflective of treatment outcome in assisted reproductive therapy (ART) couples treated by in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Relationship between SPTRX3 and treatment outcome was investigated in 239 couples undergoing ART at an infertility clinic. Sperm content of SPTRX3 was evaluated by flow cytometry and epifluorescence microscopy, and correlated with clinical semen analysis parameters, and data on embryo development and pregnancy establishment. High SPTRX3 levels (>15% SPTRX3-positive spermatozoa) were found in 51% of male infertility patients (n = 72), in 20% of men from couples with unexplained, idiopathic infertility (n = 61) and in 14% of men from couples previously diagnosed with female-only infertility (n = 85). Couples with high SPTRX3 produced fewer two-pronuclear zygotes and had a reduced pregnancy rate (19.2% pregnant with >15% SPTRX3-positive spermatozoa vs. 41.2% pregnant with <5% SPTRX3-positive sperm; one-sided p<0.05). The average pregnancy rate of all 239 couples was 25.1%. Live birth rate was 19.2% and lowest average SPTRX3 levels were found in couples that delivered twins. Men with >15% of SPTRX3-positive spermatozoa, a cutoff value established by ROC analysis, had their chance of fathering children by IVF or ICSI reduced by nearly two-thirds. The percentage of SPTRX3-positive spermatozoa had predictive value for pregnancy after ART. Gradient purification and sperm swim-up failed to remove all SPTRX3-positive spermatozoa from semen prepared for ART. In summary, the elevated semen content of SPTRX3 in men from ART couples coincided with reduced incidence of pregnancy by IVF or ICSI, identifying SPTRX3 as a candidate biomarker reflective of ART outcome. PMID:23734172

Psychological and Relational Correlates of Intimate Partner Violence Profiles Among Pregnant Adolescent Couples

PubMed Central

Lewis, Jessica B.; Sullivan, Tami P.; Angley, Meghan; Callands, Tamora; Divney, Anna A.; Magriples, Urania; Gordon, Derrick M.; Kershaw, Trace S.

2017-01-01

We sought to identify relationship and individual psychological factors that related to four profiles of intimate partner violence (IPV) among pregnant adolescent couples: no IPV, male IPV victim only, female IPV victim only, mutual IPV, and how associations differ by sex. Using data from a longitudinal study of pregnant adolescents and partners (n = 291 couples), we used a multivariate profile analysis using multivariate analysis of covariance with between and within-subjects effects to compare IPV groups and sex on relationship and psychological factors. Analyses were conducted at the couple level, with IPV groups as a between-subjects couple level variable and sex as a within-subjects variable that allowed us to model and compare the outcomes of both partners while controlling for the correlated nature of the data. Analyses controlled for age, race, income, relationship duration, and gestational age. Among couples, 64% had no IPV; 23% male IPV victim only; 7% mutual IPV; 5% female IPV victim only. Relationship (F = 3.61, P < .001) and psychological (F = 3.17, P < .001) factors differed by IPV group, overall. Attachment anxiety, attachment avoidance, relationship equity, perceived partner infidelity, depression, stress, and hostility each differed by IPV profile (all P < .01). Attachment anxiety, equity, depression and stress had a significant IPV profile by sex interaction (all P < .05). Couples with mutual IPV had the least healthy relationship and psychological characteristics; couples with no IPV had the healthiest characteristics. Females in mutually violent relationships were at particularly high risk. Couple-level interventions focused on relational issues might protect young families from developing IPV behaviors. PMID:27135634

NMR analysis of lignins in CAD-deficient plants. Part 1. Incorporation of hydroxycinnamaldehydes and hydroxybenzaldehydes into lignins.

PubMed

Kim, Hoon; Ralph, John; Lu, Fachuang; Ralph, Sally A; Boudet, Alain M; MacKay, John J; Sederoff, Ronald R; Ito, Takashi; Kawai, Shingo; Ohashi, Hideo; Higuchi, Takayoshi

2003-01-21

Peroxidase/H2O2-mediated radical coupling of 4-hydroxycinnamaldehydes produces 8-O-4-, 8-5-, and 8-8-coupled dehydrodimers as has been documented earlier, as well as the 5-5-coupled dehydrodimer. The 8-5-dehydrodimer is however produced kinetically in its cyclic phenylcoumaran form at neutral pH. Synthetic polymers produced from mixtures of hydroxycinnamaldehydes and normal monolignols provide the next level of complexity. Spectral data from dimers, oligomers, and synthetic polymers have allowed a more substantive assignment of aldehyde components in lignins isolated from a CAD-deficient pine mutant and an antisense-CAD-downregulated transgenic tobacco. CAD-deficient pine lignin shows enhanced levels of the typical benzaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde end-groups, along with evidence for two types of 8-O-4-coupled coniferaldehyde units. The CAD-downregulated tobacco also has higher levels of hydroxycinnamaldehyde and hydroxybenzaldehyde (mainly syringaldehyde) incorporation, but the analogous two types of 8-O-4-coupled products are the dominant features. 8-8-Coupled units are also clearly evident. There is clear evidence for coupling of hydroxycinnamaldehydes to each other and then incorporation into the lignin, as well as for the incorporation of hydroxycinnamaldehyde monomers into the growing lignin polymer. Coniferaldehyde and sinapaldehyde (as well as vanillin and syringaldehyde) co-polymerize with the traditional monolignols into lignins and do so at enhanced levels when CAD-deficiency has an impact on the normal monolignol production. The implication is that, particularly in angiosperms, the aldehydes behave like the traditional monolignols and should probably be regarded as authentic lignin monomers in normal and CAD-deficient plants.

Psychiatric morbidity and subsequent divorce: a couple-level register-based study in Finland.

PubMed

Metsä-Simola, Niina; Martikainen, Pekka; Monden, Christiaan W

2018-05-02

Studies that assess the role of mental health for the risk of divorce are scarce and mostly rely on individual-level data, although divorce is a couple-level phenomenon. Using data on couples, we examine the effects of both spouses' psychiatric morbidity on the risk of divorce, and whether socio-demographic factors affect these associations. We followed 96,222 Finnish married couples for 6 years using register-based data on both spouses and their household. New incidence of psychiatric morbidity and subsequent divorce was identified from dates of prescription medication purchases and hospital admissions, and dates of registered divorce. Socio-demographic factors were measured annually for both spouses and their household. The effect of incident psychiatric morbidity on divorce risk was analyzed using Cox regression. Psychiatric morbidity in men increased the age-adjusted risk of divorce more than twofold and in women nearly twofold. The risk of divorce was particularly pronounced immediately after new incidence of psychiatric morbidity, before settling to a persistently high level. Psychiatric morbidity in both spouses increased the risk of divorce almost threefold. Adjustment for socio-economic factors had little effect on these associations. Psychiatric morbidity is a persistent risk factor of divorce. The risk is larger when both spouses experience psychiatric morbidity compared to only one spouse. The findings are consistent with the idea that poor relationship quality and dissatisfaction in couples suffering from mental health problems have long-term consequences for marital stability. Treatment of psychiatric morbidity should not focus only on the individual but on couple-level dynamics.

Neutron star merger GW170817 strongly constrains doubly coupled bigravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akrami, Yashar; Brax, Philippe; Davis, Anne-Christine; Vardanyan, Valeri

2018-06-01

We study the implications of the recent detection of gravitational waves emitted by a pair of merging neutron stars and their electromagnetic counterpart, events GW170817 and GRB170817A, on the viability of the doubly coupled bimetric models of cosmic evolution, where the two metrics couple directly to matter through a composite, effective metric. We demonstrate that the bounds on the speed of gravitational waves place strong constraints on the doubly coupled models, forcing either the two metrics to be proportional at the background level or the models to become singly coupled. Proportional backgrounds are particularly interesting as they provide stable cosmological solutions with phenomenologies equivalent to that of Λ CDM at the background level as well as for linear perturbations, while nonlinearities are expected to show deviations from the standard model.

Emotional awareness and couples' relationship satisfaction.

PubMed

Croyle, Kristin L; Waltz, Jennifer

2002-10-01

This study examined the role of emotional awareness in couples' relationships and the effects of a tendency to respond to difficult couples' situations with "soft" emotions (including sadness and fear) versus "hard" emotions (including anger and resentment). Participants were 56 heterosexual couples who completed a measure of relationship satisfaction and two measures of emotional awareness, including one that was developed as part of this study. Results indicated that women were more emotionally aware than men in response to couples' situations, but not in response to general situations outside the relationship. In addition, higher levels of emotional awareness and a higher awareness of "hard" emotions were associated with decreased relationship satisfaction for women, but not for men. Discrepancy between partners' levels of awareness was related to lower satisfaction for both men and women.

String unification scale and the hyper-charge Kac-Moody level in the non-supersymmetric standard model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Gi-Chol; Hagiwara, Kaoru

1998-02-01

The string theory predicts the unification of the gauge couplings and gravity. The minimal supersymmetric Standard Model, however, gives the unification scale ~2x1016 GeV which is significantly smaller than the string scale ~5x1017 GeV of the weak coupling heterotic string theory. We study the unification scale of the non-supersymmetric minimal Standard Model quantitatively at the two-loop level. We find that the unification scale should be at most ~4x1016 GeV and the desired Kac-Moody level of the hyper-charge coupling should be 1.33<~kY<~1.35.

Optical-fiber-to-waveguide coupling using carbon-dioxide-laser-induced long-period fiber gratings.

PubMed

Bachim, Brent L; Ogunsola, Oluwafemi O; Gaylord, Thomas K

2005-08-15

Optical fibers are expected to play a role in chip-level and board-level optical interconnects because of limitations on the bandwidth and level of integration of electrical interconnects. Therefore, methods are needed to couple optical fibers directly to waveguides on chips and on boards. We demonstrate optical-fiber-to-waveguide coupling using carbon-dioxide laser-induced long-period fiber gratings (LPFGs). Such gratings can be written in standard fiber and offer wavelength multiplexing-demultiplexing performance. The coupler fabrication process and the characterization apparatus are presented. The operation and the wavelength response of a LPFG-based optical-fiber-to-waveguide directional coupler are demonstrated.

Assisting couples to develop healthy relationships: effects of couples relationship education on cortisol.

PubMed

Ditzen, Beate; Hahlweg, Kurt; Fehm-Wolfsdorf, Gabriele; Baucom, Don

2011-06-01

Couple conflict in unhappy marriages is suggested to impair individual health via chronic psychophysiological stress reactions in couples' everyday lives. As a consequence, we hypothesized that standard couples relationship education (CRE) would decrease psychophysiological stress, namely salivary cortisol levels, during couple conflict in the laboratory as compared to a standard psychological stress paradigm. We considered cortisol to be of particular interest in this context, as it mediates endocrine and immune responses to stress, and thus might influence couples' health. Salivary cortisol was repeatedly investigated in 61 couples during (a) a standard psychological stress test with no relevance for the couples, and (b) a standard couple conflict discussion in the laboratory before and after CRE. In addition, increases in self-evaluated relationship quality were analyzed with regard to their influence on salivary cortisol. Data were analyzed using multilevel modeling. Cortisol responses to the couple-external psychological stress test were unaffected by CRE, but specifically cortisol responses during the couple conflict discussion were significantly reduced following CRE compared to pre-intervention levels. Moreover, cortisol decreases during conflict were partially mediated by increases in self-reported relationship quality following CRE. These data suggest that CRE might buffer the harmful effects of repeated conflict in close relationships. Rather than ameliorating overall stress resilience, CRE might thus specifically improve individual health through increased relationship quality and reduced HPA axis activity during couple conflict. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical correlates of inconsistent condom use in HIV-serodiscordant heterosexual couples.

PubMed

Buchacz, K; van der Straten, A; Saul, J; Shiboski, S C; Gomez, C A; Padian, N

2001-11-01

We examined sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics associated with inconsistent condom use in a cross-sectional analysis of 145 sexually active HIV-serodiscordant heterosexual couples who participated in the California Partners Study II. All couples were aware of their HIV-serodiscordant status. Forty-five percent of couples reported having had unprotected vaginal or anal sex in the previous 6 months. In the multivariate couple-level analyses, factors independently associated with inconsistent (i.e., <100%) condom use in the previous 6 months included lower educational level, unemployment, African-American ethnicity, and practice of anal sex by the couple. Injection drug use was associated with inconsistent condom use among couples with younger HIV-infected partners. In addition, couples with HIV-infected partners who had higher CD4 cell counts and couples in which the HIV-infected male partner ever had sex with a man were more likely to use condoms inconsistently. Consistency of condom use did not depend on the gender of the HIV-infected partner or duration of sexual relationship. The findings suggest that many HIV-serodiscordant heterosexual couples remain at high risk of HIV transmission and may benefit not only from behavioral interventions but also from structural interventions aimed at improving their social and economic conditions.

Gender Differences in Depressive Symptoms Among HIV-Positive Concordant and Discordant Heterosexual Couples in China.

PubMed

Li, Li; Liang, Li-Jung; Lin, Chunqing; Ji, Guoping; Xiao, Yongkang

2017-03-01

HIV seropositive individuals and their heterosexual partners/spouses, either seropositive or seronegative, are facing several mental health challenges. The objective of this study was to examine gender differences in depressive symptoms among HIV-positive concordant and HIV-discordant couples. We identified heterosexual couples from participants of a randomized controlled trial conducted in Anhui province, China. A total of 265 couples, comprising 129 HIV+ male/HIV- female couples, 98 HIV- male/HIV+ female couples, and 38 HIV-positive concordant couples, were included in the analyses. We collected data using the computer-assisted personal interview method. We used a linear mixed-effects regression model to assess whether gender differences in depressive symptoms varied across couple types. HIV-positive women reported a significantly higher level of depressive symptoms than their partners/spouses. HIV-positive women with HIV-positive partners had higher depressive symptoms than those with HIV-negative partners, whereas HIV-positive men reported similar levels of depressive symptoms regardless of their partners' serostatus. Among the concordant couples, those with the highest annual family income showed the greatest gender differences in depressive symptoms. We suggest that family interventions should be gender- and couple-type specific and that mental health counseling is warranted not only for HIV-positive women but also for HIV-negative women in an HIV-affected relationship.

Multiplexity and multireciprocity in directed multiplexes.

PubMed

Gemmetto, Valerio; Squartini, Tiziano; Picciolo, Francesco; Ruzzenenti, Franco; Garlaschelli, Diego

2016-10-01

Real-world multilayer networks feature nontrivial dependencies among links of different layers. Here we argue that if links are directed, then dependencies are twofold. Besides the ordinary tendency of links of different layers to align as the result of "multiplexity," there is also a tendency to antialign as a result of what we call "multireciprocity," i.e., the fact that links in one layer can be reciprocated by opposite links in a different layer. Multireciprocity generalizes the scalar definition of single-layer reciprocity to that of a square matrix involving all pairs of layers. We introduce multiplexity and multireciprocity matrices for both binary and weighted multiplexes and validate their statistical significance against maximum-entropy null models that filter out the effects of node heterogeneity. We then perform a detailed empirical analysis of the world trade multiplex (WTM), representing the import-export relationships between world countries in different commodities. We show that the WTM exhibits strong multiplexity and multireciprocity, an effect which is, however, largely encoded into the degree or strength sequences of individual layers. The residual effects are still significant and allow us to classify pairs of commodities according to their tendency to be traded together in the same direction and/or in opposite ones. We also find that the multireciprocity of the WTM is significantly lower than the usual reciprocity measured on the aggregate network. Moreover, layers with low (high) internal reciprocity are embedded within sets of layers with comparably low (high) mutual multireciprocity. This suggests that, in the WTM, reciprocity is inherent to groups of related commodities rather than to individual commodities. We discuss the implications for international trade research focusing on product taxonomies, the product space, and fitness and complexity metrics.

Prompt gamma-ray emission of GRB 170817A associated to GW 170817: A consistent picture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ziaeepour, Houri

2018-05-01

The short GRB 170817A associated to the first detection of gravitation waves from a Binary Neutron Star (BNS) merger was in many ways unusual. Possible explanations are emission from a cocoon or cocoon break out, off-axis view of a structured or uniform jet, and on-axis ultra-relativistic jet with reduced density and Lorentz factor. Here we use a phenomenological model of shock evolution and synchrotron/self-Compton emission to simulate the prompt emission of GRB 170817A and to test above proposals. We find that synchrotron emission from a mildly relativistic cocoon with a Lorentz factor of 2-3, as considered in the literature, generates a too soft, too long, and too bright prompt emission. Off-axis view of an structured jet with a Lorentz factor of about 10 can reproduce observations, but needs a very efficient transfer of kinetic energy to electrons in internal shocks, which is disfavored by particle in cell simulations. We also comment on cocoon breakout as a mechanism for generation of the prompt gamma-ray. A relativistic jet with a Lorentz factor of about 100 and a density lower than typical short GRBs seems to be the most plausible model and we conclude that GRB 170817A was intrinsically faint. Based on this result and findings of relativistic magnetohydrodynamics simulations of BNS merger in the literature we discuss physical and astronomical conditions, which may lead to such faint short GRBs. We identify small mass difference of progenitor neutron stars, their old age and reduced magnetic field, and anti-alignment of spin-orbit angular momentum induced by environmental gravitational disturbances during the lifetime of the BNS as causes for the faintness of GRB 170817A. We predict that BNS mergers at lower redshifts generate on average fainter GRBs.

Cassini UVIS Observations of the Io Plasma Torus. 3; Observations of Temporal and Azimuthal Variability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steffl, A. J.; Delamere, P. A.; Bagenal, F.

2006-01-01

In this third paper in a series presenting observations by the Cassini Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrometer (UVIS) of the Io plasma torus, we show remarkable, though subtle, spatio-temporal variations in torus properties. The Io torus is found to exhibit significant, near sinusoidal variations in ion composition as a functions of azimuthal position. The azimuthal variation in composition is such that the mixing ratio of S II us strongly correlated with the mixing ratio of S III and the equatorial electron density and strongly anti-correlated with the mixing ratios of both S IV and O II and the equatorial electron temperature. Surprisingly, the azimuthal variation in ion composition is observed to have a period of 10.07 h -- 1.5% longer than the System III rotation period of Jupiter, yet 1.3% shorter than the System UV period defined by [Brown, M. E., 1995. J. Geophys. Res. 100, 21683-21696]. Although the amplitude of the azimuthal variation of S III and O II remained in the range of 2-5%, the amplitude of the S II and S IV compositional variation ranged between 5 and 25% during the UVIS observations. Furthermore, the amplitude of the azimuthal variations of S II and S IV appears to be modulated by its location in System III longitude, such that when the region of maximum S II mixing ration (minimum S IV mixing ratio) is aligned with a System III longitude of 200 deg +/-, the amplitude is a factor of 4 greater than when the variation is anti-aligned. This behavior can explain numerous, often apparently contradictory, observations of variations in the properties of the Io plasma torus with the System III and System IV coordinate systems.

Multiple transparency windows and Fano interferences induced by dipole-dipole couplings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diniz, E. C.; Borges, H. S.; Villas-Boas, C. J.

2018-04-01

We investigate the optical properties of a two-level system (TLS) coupled to a one-dimensional array of N other TLSs with dipole-dipole coupling between the first neighbors. The first TLS is probed by a weak field, and we assume that it has a decay rate much greater than the decay rates of the other TLSs. For N =1 and in the limit of a Rabi frequency of a probe field much smaller than the dipole-dipole coupling, the optical response of the first TLS, i.e., its absorption and dispersion, is equivalent to that of a three-level atomic system in the configuration which allows one to observe the electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) phenomenon. Thus, here we investigate an induced transparency phenomenon where the dipole-dipole coupling plays the same role as the control field in EIT in three-level atoms. We describe this physical phenomenon, named a dipole-induced transparency (DIT), and investigate how it scales with the number of coupled TLSs. In particular, we have shown that the number of TLSs coupled to the main TLS is exactly equal to the number of transparency windows. The ideas presented here are very general and can be implemented in different physical systems, such as an array of superconducting qubits, or an array of quantum dots, spin chains, optical lattices, etc.

Obesity and Sexuality Among Older Couples.

PubMed

Kwon, Soyoung; Schafer, Markus H

2016-04-01

We investigate whether obesity is associated with sexual activity, sexual frequency, and the range of sexual behaviors in heterosexual older couples. We assess to what extent associations between obesity and sexuality are explained by physical, psychological, and sexual health, and by relationship quality. We use data from 1,698 older adults in 849 partnered dyads in the 2010-2011 wave of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project and conduct couple-level analysis featuring women's and men's characteristics. Women's obesity-particularly at severe levels-is negatively associated with coupled sexual activity, and that the association is not mediated by hypothesized mediators. Men's obesity did not have any association with sexual activity. There was no significant difference between overweight and normal weight adults across all three sexuality measures. The growing number of older adults with high levels of body mass index, particularly women, may face certain difficulties in maintaining active sexual lives.

What can we learn from a two-brain approach to verbal interaction?

PubMed

Schoot, Lotte; Hagoort, Peter; Segaert, Katrien

2016-09-01

Verbal interaction is one of the most frequent social interactions humans encounter on a daily basis. In the current paper, we zoom in on what the multi-brain approach has contributed, and can contribute in the future, to our understanding of the neural mechanisms supporting verbal interaction. Indeed, since verbal interaction can only exist between individuals, it seems intuitive to focus analyses on inter-individual neural markers, i.e. between-brain neural coupling. To date, however, there is a severe lack of theoretically-driven, testable hypotheses about what between-brain neural coupling actually reflects. In this paper, we develop a testable hypothesis in which between-pair variation in between-brain neural coupling is of key importance. Based on theoretical frameworks and empirical data, we argue that the level of between-brain neural coupling reflects speaker-listener alignment at different levels of linguistic and extra-linguistic representation. We discuss the possibility that between-brain neural coupling could inform us about the highest level of inter-speaker alignment: mutual understanding. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tunneling of coupled methyl quantum rotors in 4-methylpyridine: Single rotor potential versus coupling interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khazaei, Somayeh; Sebastiani, Daniel

2017-11-01

We study the influence of rotational coupling between a pair of methyl rotators on the tunneling spectrum in condensed phase. Two interacting adjacent methyl groups are simulated within a coupled-pair model composed of static rotational potential created by the chemical environment and the interaction potential between two methyl groups. We solve the two-dimensional time-independent Schrödinger equation analytically by expanding the wave functions on the basis set of two independent free-rotor functions. We investigate three scenarios which differ with respect to the relative strength of single-rotor and coupling potential. For each scenario, we illustrate the dependence of the energy level scheme on the coupling strength. It is found that the main determinant of splitting energy levels tends to be a function of the ratio of strengths of coupling and single-rotor potential. The tunnel splitting caused by coupling is maximized for the coupled rotors in which their total hindering potential is relatively shallow. Such a weakly hindered methyl rotational potential is predicted for 4-methylpyridine at low temperature. The experimental observation of multiple tunneling peaks arising from a single type of methyl group in 4-methylpyridine in the inelastic neutron scattering spectrum is widely attributed to the rotor-rotor coupling. In this regard, using a set of first-principles calculations combined with the nudged elastic band method, we investigate the rotational potential energy surface (PES) of the coaxial pairs of rotors in 4-methylpyridine. A Numerov-type method is used to numerically solve the two-dimensional time-independent Schrödinger equation for the calculated 2D-density functional theory profile. Our computed energy levels reproduce the observed tunneling transitions well. Moreover, the calculated density distribution of the three methyl protons resembles the experimental nuclear densities obtained from the Fourier difference method. By mapping the calculated first-principles PES on the model, it is confirmed that the hindering potential in 4-methylpyridine consists of proportionally shallow single-rotor potential to coupling interaction.

Tunneling of coupled methyl quantum rotors in 4-methylpyridine: Single rotor potential versus coupling interaction.

PubMed

Khazaei, Somayeh; Sebastiani, Daniel

2017-11-21

We study the influence of rotational coupling between a pair of methyl rotators on the tunneling spectrum in condensed phase. Two interacting adjacent methyl groups are simulated within a coupled-pair model composed of static rotational potential created by the chemical environment and the interaction potential between two methyl groups. We solve the two-dimensional time-independent Schrödinger equation analytically by expanding the wave functions on the basis set of two independent free-rotor functions. We investigate three scenarios which differ with respect to the relative strength of single-rotor and coupling potential. For each scenario, we illustrate the dependence of the energy level scheme on the coupling strength. It is found that the main determinant of splitting energy levels tends to be a function of the ratio of strengths of coupling and single-rotor potential. The tunnel splitting caused by coupling is maximized for the coupled rotors in which their total hindering potential is relatively shallow. Such a weakly hindered methyl rotational potential is predicted for 4-methylpyridine at low temperature. The experimental observation of multiple tunneling peaks arising from a single type of methyl group in 4-methylpyridine in the inelastic neutron scattering spectrum is widely attributed to the rotor-rotor coupling. In this regard, using a set of first-principles calculations combined with the nudged elastic band method, we investigate the rotational potential energy surface (PES) of the coaxial pairs of rotors in 4-methylpyridine. A Numerov-type method is used to numerically solve the two-dimensional time-independent Schrödinger equation for the calculated 2D-density functional theory profile. Our computed energy levels reproduce the observed tunneling transitions well. Moreover, the calculated density distribution of the three methyl protons resembles the experimental nuclear densities obtained from the Fourier difference method. By mapping the calculated first-principles PES on the model, it is confirmed that the hindering potential in 4-methylpyridine consists of proportionally shallow single-rotor potential to coupling interaction.

Relations of husbands and wives dysphoria to marital conflict resolution strategies.

PubMed

Du Rocher Schudlich, Tina D; Papp, Lauren M; Cummings, E Mark

2004-03-01

This study investigated relations between spouses' dysphoria and constructive and destructive emotions and tactics displayed by husbands and wives throughout marital conflicts. Behavioral observations were made of 267 couples' interactions during marital conflict resolution tasks. Husbands' and wives' dysphoria levels were related to particular negative marital conflict expressions and the absence of positive strategies, even after taking into account couples' marital satisfaction and their partners' levels of dysphoria. Moreover, in comparison with wives' dysphoria, husbands' dysphoria was associated with more pervasive impairments in couples" conflict strategies evident in multiple contexts of conflict resolution, including discussion of relatively minor sources of disagreement. Implications for the treatment of depressed or maritally discordant couples are discussed.

The application of water coupled nonlinear ultrasonics to quantify the dislocation density in aluminum 1100

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mostavi, Amir; Tehrani, N.; Kamali, N.; Ozevin, D.; Chi, S. W.; Indacochea, J. E.

2017-02-01

This article investigates water coupled nonlinear ultrasonic method to measure the dislocation density in aluminum 1100 specimens. The different levels of dislocation densities are introduced to the samples by applying different levels of plastic strains by tensile loading. The ultrasonic testing includes 2.25 MHz transducer as transmitter and 5.0 MHz transducer as receiver in an immersion tank. The results of immersion experiments are compared with oil-coupled experiments. While water has significant nonlinearity within itself, the immersion ultrasound results agree with the literature of oil coupled ultrasound results of the specimens that the nonlinearity coefficient increases with the increase of dislocation density in aluminum.

Evaluating everyday competence in older adult couples: epidemiological considerations.

PubMed

Dixon, Roger A

2011-01-01

Among older adults, everyday competence is often expressed in the context of other participating individuals. Although this active human context may be occasionally comprised of mere acquaintances, long-term partners (such as couples) often act as a unit in engaging in everyday actions or reporting on familiar domains. This special section reflects an important movement in aging research to examine couples as an alternative but normatively common unit of analysis. My discussion focuses on 2 main issues. First, I sketch the rationale, logic, expectation and evidence that long-term couples might develop and display unique advantages in everyday competence. Second, I explore the possibilities that epidemiological principles - thus far applied primarily to individual-level aging, decline and disease - may provide concepts or models for research on long-term changes in couple-level adaptation. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Evaluating Everyday Competence in Older Adult Couples: Epidemiological Considerations

PubMed Central

Dixon, Roger A.

2011-01-01

Among older adults, everyday competence is often expressed in the context of other participating individuals. Although this active human context may be occasionally comprised of mere acquaintances, long-term partners (such as couples) often act as a unit in engaging in everyday actions or reporting on familiar domains. This special section reflects an important movement in aging research to examine couples as an alternative but normatively common unit of analysis. My discussion focuses on 2 main issues. First, I sketch the rationale, logic, expectation and evidence that long-term couples might develop and display unique advantages in everyday competence. Second, I explore the possibilities that epidemiological principles – thus far applied primarily to individual-level aging, decline and disease – may provide concepts or models for research on long-term changes in couple-level adaptation. PMID:20733285

Stochastic coupled cluster theory: Efficient sampling of the coupled cluster expansion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scott, Charles J. C.; Thom, Alex J. W.

2017-09-01

We consider the sampling of the coupled cluster expansion within stochastic coupled cluster theory. Observing the limitations of previous approaches due to the inherently non-linear behavior of a coupled cluster wavefunction representation, we propose new approaches based on an intuitive, well-defined condition for sampling weights and on sampling the expansion in cluster operators of different excitation levels. We term these modifications even and truncated selections, respectively. Utilising both approaches demonstrates dramatically improved calculation stability as well as reduced computational and memory costs. These modifications are particularly effective at higher truncation levels owing to the large number of terms within the cluster expansion that can be neglected, as demonstrated by the reduction of the number of terms to be sampled when truncating at triple excitations by 77% and hextuple excitations by 98%.

Psychological and relational correlates of intimate partner violence profiles among pregnant adolescent couples.

PubMed

Lewis, Jessica B; Sullivan, Tami P; Angley, Meghan; Callands, Tamora; Divney, Anna A; Magriples, Urania; Gordon, Derrick M; Kershaw, Trace S

2017-01-01

We sought to identify relationship and individual psychological factors that related to four profiles of intimate partner violence (IPV) among pregnant adolescent couples: no IPV, male IPV victim only, female IPV victim only, mutual IPV, and how associations differ by sex. Using data from a longitudinal study of pregnant adolescents and partners (n = 291 couples), we used a multivariate profile analysis using multivariate analysis of covariance with between and within-subjects effects to compare IPV groups and sex on relationship and psychological factors. Analyses were conducted at the couple level, with IPV groups as a between-subjects couple level variable and sex as a within-subjects variable that allowed us to model and compare the outcomes of both partners while controlling for the correlated nature of the data. Analyses controlled for age, race, income, relationship duration, and gestational age. Among couples, 64% had no IPV; 23% male IPV victim only; 7% mutual IPV; 5% female IPV victim only. Relationship (F = 3.61, P < .001) and psychological (F = 3.17, P < .001) factors differed by IPV group, overall. Attachment anxiety, attachment avoidance, relationship equity, perceived partner infidelity, depression, stress, and hostility each differed by IPV profile (all P < .01). Attachment anxiety, equity, depression and stress had a significant IPV profile by sex interaction (all P < .05). Couples with mutual IPV had the least healthy relationship and psychological characteristics; couples with no IPV had the healthiest characteristics. Females in mutually violent relationships were at particularly high risk. Couple-level interventions focused on relational issues might protect young families from developing IPV behaviors. Aggr. Behav. 43:26-36, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Gap Junction Coupling and Calcium Waves in the Pancreatic Islet

PubMed Central

Benninger, Richard K. P.; Zhang, Min; Head, W. Steven; Satin, Leslie S.; Piston, David W.

2008-01-01

The pancreatic islet is a highly coupled, multicellular system that exhibits complex spatiotemporal electrical activity in response to elevated glucose levels. The emergent properties of islets, which differ from those arising in isolated islet cells, are believed to arise in part by gap junctional coupling, but the mechanisms through which this coupling occurs are poorly understood. To uncover these mechanisms, we have used both high-speed imaging and theoretical modeling of the electrical activity in pancreatic islets under a reduction in the gap junction mediated electrical coupling. Utilizing islets from a gap junction protein connexin 36 knockout mouse model together with chemical inhibitors, we can modulate the electrical coupling in the islet in a precise manner and quantify this modulation by electrophysiology measurements. We find that after a reduction in electrical coupling, calcium waves are slowed as well as disrupted, and the number of cells showing synchronous calcium oscillations is reduced. This behavior can be reproduced by computational modeling of a heterogeneous population of β-cells with heterogeneous levels of electrical coupling. The resulting quantitative agreement between the data and analytical models of islet connectivity, using only a single free parameter, reveals the mechanistic underpinnings of the multicellular behavior of the islet. PMID:18805925

Couples with Intimate Partner Violence Seeking Relationship Help: Associations and Implications for Self-Help and Online Interventions.

PubMed

Roddy, McKenzie K; Georgia, Emily J; Doss, Brian D

2017-04-20

In-person conjoint treatments for relationship distress are effective at increasing relationship satisfaction, and newly developed online programs are showing promising results. However, couples reporting even low levels intimate partner violence (IPV) are traditionally excluded from these interventions. To improve the availability of couple-based treatment for couples with IPV, the present study sought to determine whether associations with IPV found in community samples generalized to couples seeking help for their relationship and whether web-based interventions for relationship distressed worked equally well for couples with IPV. In the first aim, in a sample of 2,797 individuals who were seeking online help for their relationship, the levels and correlates of both low-intensity and clinically significant IPV largely matched what is found in community samples. In the second aim, in a sample of 300 couples who were randomly assigned to a web-based intervention or a waitlist control group, low-impact IPV did not moderate the effects of the intervention for relationship distress. Therefore, web-based interventions may be an effective (and easily accessible) intervention for relationship distress for couples with low-intensity IPV. © 2017 Family Process Institute.

Demographic profile of population in Lucknow City with special reference to target couples.

PubMed

1979-01-01

The paper presents a demographic profile of Lucknow City by highlighting certain characteristics of currently married couples within reproductive age groups which brings to light certain differentials between this chosen group, and parallel groups outside of Lucknow City. After evaluating a total of 14 criteria for the Lucknow couples, the article concludes that: 1) the average husband was two years older than his wife, the average age of husband and wife being 34 and 32 respectively; 2) Most of the husbands had a minimum of primary level schooling, while most wives were illiterate; 3) the educational level of Muslim couples was markedly lower than for other ethnic groups; 4) most of the couples belonged to nuclear families; on an average, each couple had 3 living children and 11% of interviewed women were pregnant. The study also points out that the maximum proportion of laborers existed among Muslim couples, while other religious and ethnic groups engaged in private business or industry. Muslim family size was found to be consistently larger than Hindu family size.

Differences in Pornography Use Among Couples: Associations with Satisfaction, Stability, and Relationship Processes.

PubMed

Willoughby, Brian J; Carroll, Jason S; Busby, Dean M; Brown, Cameron C

2016-01-01

The present study utilized a sample of 1755 adult couples in heterosexual romantic relationships to examine how different patterns of pornography use between romantic partners may be associated with relationship outcomes. While pornography use has been generally associated with some negative and some positive couple outcomes, no study has yet explored how differences between partners may uniquely be associated with relationship well-being. Results suggested that greater discrepancies between partners in pornography use were related to less relationship satisfaction, less stability, less positive communication, and more relational aggression. Mediation analyses suggested that greater pornography use discrepancies were primarily associated with elevated levels of male relational aggression, lower female sexual desire, and less positive communication for both partners which then predicted lower relational satisfaction and stability for both partners. Results generally suggest that discrepancies in pornography use at the couple level are related to negative couple outcomes. Specifically, pornography differences may alter specific couple interaction processes which, in turn, may influence relationship satisfaction and stability. Implications for scholars and clinicians interested in how pornography use is associated with couple process are discussed.

Provider role attitudes, marital satisfaction, role overload, and housework: a dyadic approach.

PubMed

Helms, Heather M; Walls, Jill K; Crouter, Ann C; McHale, Susan M

2010-10-01

Treating the marital dyad as the unit of analysis, this study examined the within-couple patterning of 272 dual-earner spouses' provider role attitudes and their longitudinal associations with marital satisfaction, role overload, and the division of housework. Based on the congruence of husbands' and wives' provider role attitudes, couples were classified into one of four types: (a) main-secondary, (b) coprovider, (c) ambivalent coprovider, and (d) mismatched couples. Nearly half of all spouses differed in their attitudes about breadwinning. A series of mixed model ANCOVAs revealed significant between- and within-couple differences in human capital characteristics, spouses' perceptions of marital satisfaction and role overload, and the division of housework across 3 years of measurement. Coprovider couples reported higher levels of marital satisfaction and a more equitable division of housework than the other couple groups. Wives in the ambivalent coprovider couples' group reported higher levels of role overload than their husbands to a greater extent than was found in the other couple groups. As the first study to adopt a dyadic approach that considers the meanings that both spouses in dual-earner couples ascribe to paid employment, these findings advance understanding of how dual-earner spouses' provider role attitudes serve as contexts for marital quality, behavior, and role-related stress.

Follow-on cable coupling lightning test, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Danforth, Richard

1990-01-01

A redesigned solid rocket motor test article was subjected to simulated lightning strikes. This test was performed to evaluate the effects of lightning strike to the redesigned motor and Space Transportation System. The purpose of the test was to evaluate the performance of systems tunnel design changes when subjected to the lightning discharges. The goal of the design changes was to reduce lightning induced coupling to cables within the systems tunnel. The test article was subjected to several different amounts and kinds of discharges. Changes in coupling levels detected during the tests are recorded. The dominant mode of coupling appears to be caused by the diffusion of the magnetic fields through the system tunnel covers. The results from bond strap integrity testing showed that 16 of 18 bond straps survived. Design change evaluations showed that coupling reduction ranged from 0 to 36 decibels for each type of cable. The type of cable has less effect on coupling than does strike location and strike levels. Recommendations for design changes are made.

Reproductive goals and family planning attitudes in Pakistan: a couple-level analysis.

PubMed

Mahmood, N

1998-01-01

This paper examined reproductive goals and family planning attitudes at the couple level in Pakistan. Data were based on the responses of the 1260 matched couples in the 1990-91 Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey. The questions integrated in the interview were on desired fertility, family size ideas, son preference, and family planning attitude. Findings of the analysis showed that about 60% of the couples have given similar responses (agreeing either positively or negatively) to several fertility-related questions, whereas the remaining 40% differ in their attitudes. This divergence may partly be of the environmental factors such as spouse rural background, lack of education, and minimal communication between spouses. This implies that a couple's joint approval, discussion of family planning, and husband's desire for no more children have the strongest effect on promoting contraceptive use. Thus, it is concluded that the role of couple agreement is important in promoting the use of family planning, and men should be made equal targets of such programs in Pakistan.

Minority Stress and Stress Proliferation Among Same-Sex and Other Marginalized Couples

PubMed Central

LeBlanc, Allen J.; Frost, David M.; Wight, Richard G.

2014-01-01

Drawing from 2 largely isolated approaches to the study of social stress—stress proliferation and minority stress—the authors theorize about stress and mental health among same-sex couples. With this integrated stress framework, they hypothesized that couple-level minority stressors may be experienced by individual partners and jointly by couples as a result of the stigmatized status of their same-sex relationship—a novel concept. They also consider dyadic minority stress processes, which result from the relational experience of individual-level minority stressors between partners. Because this framework includes stressors emanating from both status- (e.g., sexual minority) and role-based (e.g., partner) stress domains, it facilitates the study of stress proliferation linking minority stress (e.g., discrimination), more commonly experienced relational stress (e.g., conflict), and mental health. This framework can be applied to the study of stress and health among other marginalized couples, such as interracial/ethnic, interfaith, and age-discrepant couples. PMID:25663713

Gender Differences in Depressive Symptoms Among HIV-Positive Concordant and Discordant Heterosexual Couples in China

PubMed Central

Li, Li; Liang, Li-Jung; Lin, Chunqing; Ji, Guoping; Xiao, Yongkang

2016-01-01

HIV seropositive individuals and their heterosexual partners/spouses, either seropositive or seronegative, are facing several mental health challenges. The objective of this study was to examine gender differences in depressive symptoms among HIV-positive concordant and HIV-discordant couples. We identified heterosexual couples from participants of a randomized controlled trial conducted in Anhui province, China. A total of 265 couples, comprising 129 HIV+ male/HIV− female couples, 98 HIV− male/HIV+ female couples, and 38 HIV-positive concordant couples, were included in the analyses. We collected data using the computer-assisted personal interview method. We used a linear mixed-effects regression model to assess whether gender differences in depressive symptoms varied across couple types. HIV-positive women reported a significantly higher level of depressive symptoms than their partners/spouses. HIV-positive women with HIV-positive partners had higher depressive symptoms than those with HIV-negative partners, whereas HIV-positive men reported similar levels of depressive symptoms regardless of their partners’ serostatus. Among the concordant couples, those with the highest annual family income showed the greatest gender differences in depressive symptoms. We suggest that family interventions should be gender- and couple-type specific and that mental health counseling is warranted not only for HIV-positive women but also for HIV-negative women in an HIV-affected relationship. PMID:28490832

A system-level mathematical model for evaluation of power train performance of load-leveled electric-vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Purohit, G. P.; Leising, C. J.

1984-01-01

The power train performance of load leveled electric vehicles can be compared with that of nonload leveled systems by use of a simple mathematical model. This method of measurement involves a number of parameters including the degree of load leveling and regeneration, the flywheel mechanical to electrical energy fraction, and efficiencies of the motor, generator, flywheel, and transmission. Basic efficiency terms are defined and representative comparisons of a variety of systems are presented. Results of the study indicate that mechanical transfer of energy into and out of the flywheel is more advantageous than electrical transfer. An optimum degree of load leveling may be achieved in terms of the driving cycle, battery characteristics, mode of mechanization, and the efficiency of the components. For state of the art mechanically coupled flyheel systems, load leveling losses can be held to a reasonable 10%; electrically coupled systems can have losses that are up to six times larger. Propulsion system efficiencies for mechanically coupled flywheel systems are predicted to be approximately the 60% achieved on conventional nonload leveled systems.

Electroacoustic Evaluation of Frequency-Modulated Receivers Interfaced with Personal Hearing Aids

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schafer, Erin C.; Thibodeau, Linda M.; Whalen, Holly S.; Overson, Gary J.

2007-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the electroacoustic outputs of frequency-modulated (FM) systems coupled to hearing aids. Method: Electroacoustic performance of FM systems coupled to hearing aids was determined for 3 FM receivers: body-worn with neck loop, ear-level nonprogrammable, and ear-level programmable. Systems were…

Social Support and Psychological Well-Being in Lesbian and Heterosexual Preadoptive Couples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldberg, Abbie E.; Smith, JuliAnna Z.

2008-01-01

This study examines predictors of social support and mental health among 36 lesbian and 39 heterosexual couples who were waiting to adopt. Lesbian preadoptive partners perceived less support from family than heterosexual partners but similar levels of support from friends. Lesbian and heterosexual partners reported similar levels of well-being.…

Demonstration of Double EIT Using Coupled Harmonic Oscillators and RLC Circuits

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harden, Joshua; Joshi, Amitabh; Serna, Juan D.

2011-01-01

Single and double electromagnetically induced transparencies (EIT) in a medium, consisting of four-level atoms in the inverted-Y configuration, are discussed using mechanical and electrical analogies. A three-coupled spring-mass system subject to damping and driven by an external force is used to represent the four-level atom mechanically. The…

Positive couple interactions and daily cortisol: on the stress-protecting role of intimacy.

PubMed

Ditzen, Beate; Hoppmann, Christiane; Klumb, Petra

2008-10-01

To determine whether intimacy might be associated with reduced daily salivary cortisol levels in couples, thereby adding to the epidemiologic literature on reduced health burden in happy couples. A total of 51 dual-earner couples reported time spent on intimacy, stated their current affect quality, and provided saliva samples for cortisol estimation approximately every 3 hours in a 1-week time-sampling assessment. In addition, participants provided data on chronic problems of work organization. Multilevel analyses revealed that intimacy was significantly associated with reduced daily salivary cortisol levels. There was an interaction effect of intimacy with chronic problems of work organization in terms of their relationship with cortisol levels, suggesting a buffering effect of intimacy on work-related elevated cortisol levels. Above this, the association between intimacy and cortisol was mediated by positive affect. Intimacy and affect together explained 7% of daily salivary cortisol variance. Our results are in line with previous studies on the effect of intimacy on cortisol stress responses in the laboratory as well as with epidemiologic data on health beneficial effects of happy marital relationships.

Conflict, negative emotion, and reports of partners' relationship maintenance in same-sex couples.

PubMed

Ogolsky, Brian G; Gray, Christine R

2016-03-01

The literature on relationship maintenance has focused primarily on the beneficial outcomes of maintenance, and, as a result, little is known about relational processes that may interfere with reports of partners' maintenance. The authors examine how daily conflict influences individuals' reports of their partners' maintenance, and how a constructive communication style buffers this influence by reducing negative emotion on conflict days. In a daily diary study of 98 same-sex couples in romantic relationships, they found that the negative association between conflict and reports of a partner's relationship maintenance was mediated by negative emotion. That is, there was an indirect effect by which daily conflict was associated with higher levels of daily negative emotion, which was associated with reports of lower levels of partners' relationship maintenance. This indirect effect was moderated by couples' overall level of constructive communication such that higher levels diminished the degree to which couples experienced negative emotion on days with episodes of relational conflict. The authors discuss results in the context of interpersonal theory and provide implications for clinicians and practitioners. (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Optical characteristics of the nanoparticle coupled to a quantum molecular aggregate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ropakova, I. Yu.; Zvyagin, A. A.

2017-11-01

Optical characteristics of a single nanoparticle, coupled to the one-dimensional quantum molecular aggregate is studied. Depending on the values of the coupling of the particle and its own frequency, with respect to the own frequency of the aggregated molecules, and the strength of the aggregation, the dynamical relative permittivity of the nanoparticle manifests the contribution from the exciton band, or/and the ones from the local level(s) caused by the particle. The refractive index and the extinction coefficient of the nanoparticle is also calculated.

Terahertz response of fractal meta-atoms based on concentric rectangular square resonators

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Song, Zhiqiang; Zhao, Zhenyu, E-mail: zyzhao@shnu.edu.cn; Shi, Wangzhou

We investigate the terahertz electromagnetic responses of fractal meta-atoms (MAs) induced by different mode coupling mechanisms. Two types of MAs based on concentric rectangular square (CRS) resonators are presented: independent CRS (I-CRS) and junctional-CRS (J-CRS). In I-CRS, each resonator works as an independent dipole so as to result in the multiple resonance modes when the fractal level is above 1. In J-CRS, however, the generated layer is rotated by π/2 radius to the adjacent CRS in one MA. The multiple resonance modes are coupled into a single mode resonance. The fractal level increasing induces resonance modes redshift in I-CRS whilemore » blueshift in J-CRS. When the fractal level is below 4, the mode Q factor of J-CRS is in between the two modes of I-CRS; when the fractal level is 4 or above, the mode Q factor of J-CRS exceeds the two modes of I-CRS. Furthermore, the modulation depth (MD) decreases in I-CRS while it increases in J-CRS with the increase in fractal levels. The surface currents analysis reveals that the capacitive coupling of modes in I-CRS results in the modes redshift, while the conductive coupling of modes in J-CRS induces the mode blueshift. A high Q mode with large MD can be achieved via conductive coupling between the resonators of different scales in a fractal MA.« less

Cognitive Restructuring and a Collaborative Set in Couples' Work.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huber, Charles H.; Milstein, Barbara

1985-01-01

Investigated effects of cognitive restructuring efforts to modify unrealistic beliefs of marital partners in 17 couples. Treatment program sought to impact proactively upon positive therapeutic expectations and relationship goals and enhanced base level of marital satisfaction. On all outcome measures, treatment group (N=9 couples) showed…

Axial forces in centrifugal compressor couplings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, A. N.; Ivanov, N. M.; Yun, V. K.

2017-08-01

The article presents the results of the theoretical and experimental investigation of axial forces arising in the toothed and plate couplings of centrifugal compressor shaft lines. Additional loads on the thrust bearing are considered that can develop in the toothed couplings as a result of coupled rotors misalignment. Design relationships to evaluate the level of axial forces and recommendations for their reduction in the operating conditions are given.

[The structure of interaction in romantic relationships: hierarchical data analysis of inter-subjectivity between partners].

PubMed

Shimizu, Hiroshi; Daibo, Ikuo

2008-02-01

A hierarchical data analysis was conducted using data from couples to examine how self-reports of interactions between partners in romantic relationships predict the quality of the relationships. Whereas the social exchange theory has elucidated the quality of relationships from the individual level of subjectivity, this study focused on the structure of interactions between the partners (i.e., the frequency, strength, and diversity) through a process of inter-subjectivity at the couple level. A multilevel covariance structure analysis of 194 university students involved in romantic relationships revealed that the quality of relationships was mainly related to the strength and the diversity of interactions at the couple level, rather than the strength of interactions at the individual level. These results indicate that the inter-subjective process in romantic relationships may primarily explain the quality of relationships.

Long-lasting quantum memories: Extending the coherence time of superconducting artificial atoms in the ultrastrong-coupling regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stassi, Roberto; Nori, Franco

2018-03-01

Quantum systems are affected by interactions with their environments, causing decoherence through two processes: pure dephasing and energy relaxation. For quantum information processing it is important to increase the coherence time of Josephson qubits and other artificial two-level atoms. We show theoretically that if the coupling between these qubits and a cavity field is longitudinal and in the ultrastrong-coupling regime, the system is strongly protected against relaxation. Vice versa, if the coupling is transverse and in the ultrastrong-coupling regime, the system is protected against pure dephasing. Taking advantage of the relaxation suppression, we show that it is possible to enhance their coherence time and use these qubits as quantum memories. Indeed, to preserve the coherence from pure dephasing, we prove that it is possible to apply dynamical decoupling. We also use an auxiliary atomic level to store and retrieve quantum information.

Gender Dynamics Predict Changes in Marital Love Among African American Couples

PubMed Central

Stanik, Christine E.; McHale, Susan M.; Crouter, Ann C.

2013-01-01

This study examined the implications of gender attitudes and spouses’ divisions of household labor, time with children, and parental knowledge for their trajectories of love in a sample of 146 African American couples. Multilevel modeling in the context of an accelerated longitudinal design accommodated 3 annual waves of data. The results revealed that traditionality in husbands’ gender attitudes was linked to lower levels of love. Furthermore, divisions of household labor and parental knowledge moderated changes in love such that couples with more egalitarian divisions exhibited higher and more stable patterns of love, whereas more traditional couples exhibited significant declines in love over time. Finally, greater similarity between spouses’ time with their children was linked to higher levels of marital love. The authors highlight the implications of gender dynamics for marital harmony among African American couples and discuss ways that this work may be applied and extended in practice and future research. PMID:23956462

A description of heterosexual couples' sexual adjustment to androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer.

PubMed

Walker, Lauren M; Robinson, John W

2011-08-01

It is estimated that 600,000 men are currently living in North America with castrate levels of testosterone as a result of androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer. The goal of this study was to explore how patients and their partners adjust to changes associated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Eighteen couples were interviewed regarding their adjustment to ADT side effects. Three distinct patterns of adjustment were observed. One group of couples had assumed sex to be impossible after commencing ADT, and quickly accepted the loss of sex in exchange for a life extending treatment (four couples). Another group was found to be struggling to either maintain satisfying sex or adapt to the loss of their sexual relationship (five couples). The third group had struggled, but found that they were satisfied with their sexual outcome (nine couples). A subset of these couples successfully adjusted to changes in the man's sexual function and found satisfying ways to be sexually active (five couples). The finding that some couples are able to enjoy satisfying sex, despite castrate levels of testosterone, raised questions about how patients are prepared to undergo ADT and how they are managed. It is possible that both the couples who gave up on sex because they believed that satisfying sex was impossible, and the couples who continued to struggle to adjust, may have faired better if they had known how other couples are able to maintain satisfying sex while the man is androgen-deprived. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Spousal discordance on fertility preference and its effect on contraceptive practice among married couples in Jimma zone, Ethiopia.

PubMed

Tilahun, Tizta; Coene, Gily; Temmerman, Marleen; Degomme, Olivier

2014-04-04

To assess spousal agreement levels regarding fertility preference and spousal communication, and to look at how it affects contraceptive use by couples. We conducted a cross-sectional study to collect quantitative data from March to May 2010 in Jimma zone, Ethiopia, using a multistage sampling design covering six districts. In each of the 811 couples included in the survey, both spouses were interviewed. Concordance between the husband and wife was assessed using different statistics and tests including concordance rates, ANOVA, Cohen's Κ and McNemar's test for paired samples. Multivariate analysis was computed to ascertain factors associated with contraceptive use. Over half of the couples wanted more children and 27.8% of the spouses differed about the desire for more children. In terms of sex preference, there was a 48.7% discord in couples who wanted to have more children. At large, spousal concordance on the importance of family planning was positive. However, it was the husband's favourable attitude towards family planning that determined a couple's use of contraception. Overall, contraceptive prevalence was 42.9%. Among the groups with the highest level of contraceptive users, were couples where the husband does not want any more children. Spousal communication about the decision to use contraception showed a positive association with a couple's contraceptive prevalence. Family planning programs aiming to increase contraceptive uptake could benefit from findings on spousal agreement regarding fertility desire, because the characteristics of each spouse influences the couple's fertility level. Disparities between husband and wife about the desire for more children sustain the need for male consideration while analysing the unmet need for contraception. Moreover, men play a significant role in the decision making concerning contraceptive use. Accordingly, involving men in family planning programs could increase a couple's contraceptive practice in the future.

Influence of the frequency detuning on the four-wave mixing efficiency in three-level system coupled by standing-wave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Hai-Tao; Che, Shao-Na; Han, Yu-Hong; Wang, Dan

2018-05-01

In a Λ-type three-level atomic system coupled by an off-resonant standing-wave, the reflected four-wave mixing (FWM) spectrum is studied. It shows that the maximum reflection efficiency occurs when both of the coupling and probe fields are tuned off resonances from the atomic transitions. The essence of enhanced reflection is that the nonlinear efficiency of the FWM based on coherent atoms is improved due to the significant reduction of phase mismatch. The theoretical analysis shows good agreement with the experimental results. Furthermore, the influence of the atomic number density on the coupling frequency detuning of the optimum reflection efficiency and the linewidth are also investigated.

Love, marriage, and divorce: newlyweds' stress hormones foreshadow relationship changes.

PubMed

Kiecolt-Glaser, Janice K; Bane, Cynthia; Glaser, Ronald; Malarkey, William B

2003-02-01

Neuroendocrine function, assessed in 90 couples during their first year of marriage (Time 1), was related to marital dissolution and satisfaction 10 years later. Compared to those who remained married, epinephrine levels of divorced couples were 34% higher during a Time 1 conflict discussion, 22% higher throughout the day, and both epinephrine and norepinephrine were 16% higher at night. Among couples who were still married, Time 1 conflict ACTH levels were twice as high among women whose marriages were troubled 10 years later than among women whose marriages were untroubled. Couples whose marriages were troubled at follow-up produced 34% more norepinephrine during conflict, 24% more norepinephrine during the daytime, and 17% more during nighttime hours at Time 1 than the untroubled.

A Longitudinal Investigation of Commitment Dynamics in Cohabiting Relationships

PubMed Central

Rhoades, Galena K.; Stanley, Scott M.; Markman, Howard J.

2012-01-01

This longitudinal study followed 120 cohabiting couples over 8 months to test hypotheses derived from commitment theory about how two types of commitment (dedication and constraints) operate during cohabitation. In nearly half the couples, there were large differences between partners in terms of dedication. These differences were associated with lower relationship adjustment, even controlling for overall level of dedication. Further, among couples who believed in the institution of marriage, cohabiting women were, on average, more dedicated than their partners. Additionally, there was evidence that constraints (e.g., signing a lease, having a joint bank account) may make it less likely that couples will break-up, regardless of relationship dedication. This finding was strongest for women and for those with higher income levels. PMID:22736881

Couple Consensus during Marital Joint Decision-Making: A Context, Process, Outcome Model.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Godwin, Deborah D.; Scanzoni, John

1989-01-01

Tested conceptual model of context, processes, and outcomes of joint marital decision making of married couples (N=188) which specified spouses' process variables as individual-level measures and partners' consensus as a couple construct. Found context factor of spouses' emotional interdependence influenced both partners' coerciveness and degree…

Two-dimensional analysis of coupled heat and moisture transport in masonry structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krejčí, Tomáš

2016-06-01

Reconstruction and maintenance of historical buildings and bridges require good knowledge of temperature and moisture distribution. Sharp changes in the temperature and moisture can lead to damage. This paper describes analysis of coupled heat and moisture transfer in masonry based on two-level approach. Macro-scale level describes the whole structure while meso-scale level takes into account detailed composition of the masonry. The two-level approach is very computationally demanding and it was implemented in parallel. The two-level approach was used in analysis of temperature and moisture distribution in Charles bridge in Prague, Czech Republic.

Kondo peak splitting and Kondo dip in single molecular magnet junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Pengbin; Shi, Yunlong; Sun, Zhu; Nie, Yi-Hang; Luo, Hong-Gang

2016-01-01

Many factors containing bias, spin-orbit coupling, magnetic fields applied, and so on can strongly influence the Kondo effect, and one of the consequences is Kondo peak splitting (KPS). It is natural that KPS should also appear when another spin degree of freedom is involved. In this work we study the KPS effects of single molecular magnets (SMM) coupled with two metallic leads in low-temperature regime. It is found that the Kondo transport properties are strongly influenced by the exchange coupling and anisotropy of the magnetic core. By employing Green's function method in Hubbard operator representation, we give an analytical expression for local retarded Green's function of SMM and discussed its low-temperature transport properties. We find that the anisotropy term behaves as a magnetic field and the splitting behavior of exchange coupling is quite similar to the spin-orbit coupling. These splitting behaviors are explained by introducing inter-level or intra-level transitions, which account for the seven-peak splitting structure. Moreover, we find a Kondo dip at Fermi level under proper parameters. These Kondo peak splitting behaviors in SMM deepen our understanding to Kondo physics and should be observed in the future experiments.

Provider Role Attitudes, Marital Satisfaction, Role Overload, and Housework: A Dyadic Approach

PubMed Central

Helms, Heather M.; Walls, Jill K.; Crouter, Ann C.; McHale, Susan M.

2010-01-01

Treating the marital dyad as the unit of analysis, this study examined the within-couple patterning of 272 dual-earner spouses’ provider role attitudes and their longitudinal associations with marital satisfaction, role overload, and the division of housework. Based on the congruence of husbands’ and wives’ provider role attitudes, couples were classified into one of four types: (1) main-secondary, (2) coprovider, (3) ambivalent coprovider, and (4) mismatched couples. Nearly half of all spouses differed in their attitudes about breadwinning. A series of mixed model ANCOVAs revealed significant between- and within-couple differences in human capital characteristics, spouses’ perceptions of marital satisfaction and role overload, and the division of housework across 3 years of measurement. Coprovider couples reported higher levels of marital satisfaction and a more equitable division of housework than the other couple groups. Wives in the ambivalent coprovider couples’ group reported higher levels of role overload than their husbands to a greater extent than was found in the other couple groups. As the first study to adopt a dyadic approach that considers the meanings that both spouses in dual-earner couples ascribe to paid employment, these findings advance understanding of how dual-earner spouses’ provider role attitudes serve as contexts for marital quality, behavior, and role-related stress. PMID:20954767

Mexican American adolescent couples' vulnerability for observed negativity and physical violence: Pregnancy and acculturation mismatch.

PubMed

Williams, Lela Rankin; Rueda, Heidi Adams

2016-10-01

Stress and vulnerability for dating violence may be heightened among acculturating Mexican American (MA) adolescents, and MA adolescent parents, because of differing cultural values and norms within romantic relationships. We hypothesized, in a sample of MA heterosexual couples (N = 30, 15-17 years), that: 1) within-couple level acculturation discrepancies, and pregnancy/parenting, would predict physical violence perpetration, and 2) that this association would have an indirect effect through couple-level negativity during an observed dyadic video-taped discussion of conflict. Using a path model we found that pregnant/parenting adolescents (B = .37, SE = .16, p = .002), and couples with greater acculturation mismatch resulted in greater couple negativity (B = .16, SE = .06, p = .01), which was associated with self-reported physical violence perpetration (B = .41, SE = .22, p = .02; indirect effect, B = .15, SE = .07, p = .03). Within-couple acculturation discrepancies and pregnancy/parenting may be a pathway to dating violence through poor communication skills around conflict for MA youth. Support services that strengthen communication skills, particularly for pregnant/parenting couples, are recommended. Copyright © 2016 The Foundation for Professionals in Services for Adolescents. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electronic, structural, and thermodynamic properties of mixed actinide dioxides (U, Pu, Am) O2 from hybrid density functional theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Li; Ray, Asok K.

2010-03-01

As a continuation of our studies of pure actinide metals using hybrid density functional theory,footnotetextR. Atta-Fynn and A. K. Ray, Europhysics Letters, 85, 27008-p1- p6 (2009); Chemical Physics Letters, 482, 223-227 (2009). we present here a systematic study of the electronic and geometric structure properties of mixed actinide dioxides, U0.5Pu0.5O2, U0.5Am0.5O2, Pu0.5Am0.5 O2 and U0.8Pu0.2O2. The fraction of exact Hartree-Fock exchange used was 40%. To investigate the effect of spin-orbit coupling on the ground state electronic and geometric structure properties, computations have been carried out at two theoretical levels, one at the scalar-relativistic level with no spin-orbit coupling and one at the fully relativistic level with spin-orbit coupling. Thermodynamic properties have been calculated by a coupling of first-principles calculation and lattice dynamics.

New opportunities in h → 4ℓ

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Yi; Harnik, Roni; Vega-Morales, Roberto

2015-09-28

The Higgs decay h → 4ℓ has played an important role in discovering the Higgs and measuring its mass thanks to low background and excellent resolution. Current cuts in this channel have been optimized for Higgs discovery via the dominant tree level ZZ contribution arising from electroweak symmetry breaking. Going forward, one of the primary objectives of this sensitive channel will be to probe other Higgs couplings and search for new physics on top of the tree level ZZ ‘background’. Thanks to interference between these small couplings and the large tree level contribution to ZZ, the h → 4ℓ decaymore » is uniquely capable of probing the magnitude and CP phases of the Higgs couplings to γγ and Zγ as well as, to a lesser extent, ZZ couplings arising from higher dimensional operators. With this in mind we examine how much relaxing current cuts can enhance the sensitivity while also accounting for the dominant non-Higgs continuum \\( q\\overline{q}\\to 4\\ell \\) background. We find the largest enhancement in sensitivity for the hZγ couplings (≳100%) followed by hγγ (≳40%) and less so for the higher dimensional hZZ couplings (a few percent). With these enhancements, we show that couplings of order Standard Model values for hγγ may optimistically be probed by end of Run-II at the LHC while for hZγ perhaps towards the end of a high luminosity LHC. In addition, an appropriately optimized h → 4ℓ analysis can complement direct decays of the Higgs to on-shell γγ and Zγ pairs giving a unique opportunity to directly access the CP properties of these couplings.« less

Cortisol covariation within parents of young children: Moderation by relationship aggression.

PubMed

Saxbe, Darby E; Adam, Emma K; Schetter, Christine Dunkel; Guardino, Christine M; Simon, Clarissa; McKinney, Chelsea O; Shalowitz, Madeleine U

2015-12-01

Covariation in diurnal cortisol has been observed in several studies of cohabiting couples. In two such studies (Liu et al., 2013; Saxbe and Repetti, 2010), relationship distress was associated with stronger within-couple correlations, suggesting that couples' physiological linkage with each other may indicate problematic dyadic functioning. Although intimate partner aggression has been associated with dysregulation in women's diurnal cortisol, it has not yet been tested as a moderator of within-couple covariation. This study reports on a diverse sample of 122 parents who sampled salivary cortisol on matched days for two years following the birth of an infant. Partners showed strong positive cortisol covariation. In couples with higher levels of partner-perpetrated aggression reported by women at one year postpartum, both women and men had a flatter diurnal decrease in cortisol and stronger correlations with partners' cortisol sampled at the same timepoints. In other words, relationship aggression was linked both with indices of suboptimal cortisol rhythms in both members of the couples and with stronger within-couple covariation coefficients. These results persisted when relationship satisfaction and demographic covariates were included in the model. During some of the sampling days, some women were pregnant with a subsequent child, but pregnancy did not significantly moderate cortisol levels or within-couple covariation. The findings suggest that couples experiencing relationship aggression have both suboptimal neuroendocrine profiles and stronger covariation. Cortisol covariation is an understudied phenomenon with potential implications for couples' relationship functioning and physical health. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Theoretical Study of the Jahn-Teller effect in CH3CN+ (X2E) and CD3CN+ (X2E): multimode spin-vibronic energy level calculations.

PubMed

Zhang, Shiyang; Mo, Yuxiang

2009-10-15

The spin-vibronic energy levels for CH(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) and CD(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) have been calculated using a diabatic model including multimode vibronic couplings and spin-orbit interaction without adjusting any parameter. The diabatic potential energy surfaces are represented by the Taylor expansions including linear, quadratic and bilinear vibronic coupling terms. The normal coordinates used in the Taylor expansion were expressed by the mass-weighted Cartesian coordinates. The adiabatic potential energy surfaces for CH(3)CN(+) and CD(3)CN(+) were calculated at the level of CASPT2/cc-pvtz, and the spin-orbit coupling constant was calculated at the level of MRCI/CAS/cc-pvtz. The spin-orbit energy splittings for the ground vibrational states of CH(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) and CD(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) are 20 and 16 cm(-1), respectively, which are resulted from the quenching of the spin-orbit coupling strength of 51 cm(-1). The calculated spin-vibronic levels are in good agreement with the experimental data. The calculation results show that the Jahn-Teller effects in CH(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) and CD(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) are essential to understand their spin-vibronic energy structure.

Fertility intentions among HIV-infected, sero-concordant Kenyan couples in Nyanza Province, Kenya

PubMed Central

Dworkin, Shari; Harrington, Elizabeth; Kwena, Zachary; Onono, Maricianah; Bukusi, Elizabeth; Cohen, Craig R.; Grossma, Daniel; Newmann, Sara J.

2013-01-01

Research in sub-Saharan Africa has shown significant diversity in how HIV influences infected couples’ fertility intentions. Supporting HIV-infected, sero-concordant couples in sub-Saharan Africa to make informed choices about their fertility options has not received sufficient attention. In-depth interviews were conducted among 23 HIV-positive, sero-concordant married couples in Kenya, to better understand how HIV impacted fertility intentions. HIV compelled many to reconsider fertility plans, sometimes promoting childbearing intentions in some individuals but often reducing fertility plans among most, largely due to fears of early death, health concerns, stigma, perinatal HIV transmission and financial difficulties (particularly in men). Preferences for sons and large families influenced some couples’ intentions to continue childbearing, although none had discussed their intentions with health care providers. Additional support and services for HIV-infected, sero-concordant couples are needed. Family planning counselling should be tailored to the unique concerns of HIV-infected couples, addressing perinatal transmission but also individual, couple-level, and socio-cultural fertility expectations. Community-level programmes are needed to reduce stigma and make HIV-infected couples more comfortable in discussing fertility intentions with health care providers. PMID:23885924

Communication: Localized molecular orbital analysis of the effect of electron correlation on the anomalous isotope effect in the NMR spin-spin coupling constant in methane

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zarycz, M. Natalia C., E-mail: mnzarycz@gmail.com; Provasi, Patricio F., E-mail: patricio@unne.edu.ar; Sauer, Stephan P. A., E-mail: sauer@kiku.dk

2014-10-21

We discuss the effect of electron correlation on the unexpected differential sensitivity (UDS) in the {sup 1}J(C–H) coupling constant of CH{sub 4} using a decomposition into contributions from localized molecular orbitals and compare with the {sup 1}J(N–H) coupling constant in NH{sub 3}. In particular, we discuss the well known fact that uncorrelated coupled Hartree-Fock (CHF) calculations are not able to reproduce the UDS in methane. For this purpose we have implemented for the first time a localized molecular orbital analysis for the second order polarization propagator approximation with coupled cluster singles and doubles amplitudes—SOPPA(CCSD) in the DALTON program. Comparing themore » changes in the localized orbital contributions at the correlated SOPPA and SOPPA(CCSD) levels and at the uncorrelated CHF level, we find that the latter overestimates the effect of stretching the bond between the coupled atoms on the contribution to the coupling from the localized bonding orbital between these atoms. This disturbs the subtle balance between the molecular orbital contributions, which lead to the UDS in methane.« less

Optical switching property of electromagnetically induced transparency in a Λ system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lianshui; Wang, Jian; Feng, Xiaomin; Yang, Lijun; Li, Xiaoli; Zhao, Min

2008-12-01

In this paper we study the coherent transient property of a Λ-three-level system (Ωd = 0) and a quasi- Λ -four-level system (Ωd>0). Optical switching of the probe field can be achieved by applying a pulsed coupling field or rf field. In Λ -shaped three-level system, when the coupling field was switched on, there is a almost total transparency of the probe field and the time required for the absorption changing from 90% to 10% of the maximum absorption is 2.9Γ0 (Γ0 is spontaneous emission lifetime). When the coupling field was switched off, there is an initial increase of the probe field absorption and then gradually evolves to the maximum of absorption of the two-level absorption, the time required for the absorption of the system changing from 10% to 90% is 4.2Γ0. In four-level system, where rf driving field is used as switching field, to achieve the same depth of the optical switching, the time of the optical switching is 2.5Γ0 and 6.1Γ0, respectively. The results show that with the same depth of the optical switching, the switch-on time of the four-level system is shorter than that of the three-level system, while the switch-off time of the four-level system is longer. The depth of the optical switching of the four-level system was much larger than that of the three-level system, where the depth of the optical switching of the latter is merely 14.8% of that of the former. The speed of optical switching of the two systems can be increased by the increase of Rabi frequency of coupling field or rf field.

Subharmonic resonances in high-order wave mixing in the quantized atomic motion in a one-dimensional optical lattice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lopez, J. P.; de Almeida, A. J. F.; Tabosa, J. W. R.

2018-03-01

We report on the observation of subharmonic resonances in high-order wave mixing associated with the quantized vibrational levels of atoms trapped in a one-dimensional optical lattice created by two intense nearly counterpropagating coupling beams. These subharmonic resonances, occurring at ±1 /2 and ±1 /3 of the frequency separation between adjacent vibrational levels, are observed through phase-match angularly resolved six- and eight-wave mixing processes. We investigate how these resonances evolve with the intensity of the incident probe beam, which couples with one of the coupling beams to create anharmonic coherence gratings between adjacent vibrational levels. Our experimental results also show evidence of high-order processes associated with coherence involving nonadjacent vibrational levels. Moreover, we also demonstrate that these induced high-order coherences can be stored in the medium and the associated optical information retrieved after a controlled storage time.

Toddlers’ dysregulated fear predicts delta-beta coupling during preschool

PubMed Central

Phelps, Randi A.; Brooker, Rebecca J.; Buss, Kristin A.

2015-01-01

Dysregulated fear, or the persistence of high levels of fear in low-threat contexts, is an early risk factor for the development of anxiety symptoms. Previous work has suggested both propensities for over-control and under-control of fearfulness as risk factors for anxiety problems, each of which may be relevant to observations of dysregulated fear. Given difficulty disentangling over-control and under-control through traditional behavioral measures, we used delta-beta coupling to begin to understand the degree to which dysregulated fear may reflect propensities for over- or under-control. We found that toddlers who showed high levels of dysregulated fear evidenced greater delta-beta coupling at frontal and central electrode sites as preschoolers relative to children who were low in dysregulated fear. Importantly, these differences were not observed when comparisons were made based on fear levels in high threat contexts. Results suggest dysregulated fear may involve tendencies toward over-control at the neural level. PMID:26624221

Inversion of Qubit Energy Levels in Qubit-Oscillator Circuits in the Deep-Strong-Coupling Regime.

PubMed

Yoshihara, F; Fuse, T; Ao, Z; Ashhab, S; Kakuyanagi, K; Saito, S; Aoki, T; Koshino, K; Semba, K

2018-05-04

We report on experimentally measured light shifts of superconducting flux qubits deep-strongly coupled to LC oscillators, where the coupling constants are comparable to the qubit and oscillator resonance frequencies. By using two-tone spectroscopy, the energies of the six lowest levels of each circuit are determined. We find huge Lamb shifts that exceed 90% of the bare qubit frequencies and inversions of the qubits' ground and excited states when there are a finite number of photons in the oscillator. Our experimental results agree with theoretical predictions based on the quantum Rabi model.

Inversion of Qubit Energy Levels in Qubit-Oscillator Circuits in the Deep-Strong-Coupling Regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshihara, F.; Fuse, T.; Ao, Z.; Ashhab, S.; Kakuyanagi, K.; Saito, S.; Aoki, T.; Koshino, K.; Semba, K.

2018-05-01

We report on experimentally measured light shifts of superconducting flux qubits deep-strongly coupled to L C oscillators, where the coupling constants are comparable to the qubit and oscillator resonance frequencies. By using two-tone spectroscopy, the energies of the six lowest levels of each circuit are determined. We find huge Lamb shifts that exceed 90% of the bare qubit frequencies and inversions of the qubits' ground and excited states when there are a finite number of photons in the oscillator. Our experimental results agree with theoretical predictions based on the quantum Rabi model.

Variational method for nonconservative field theories: Formulation and two PT-symmetric case examples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Restrepo, Juan; Ciuti, Cristiano; Favero, Ivan

2014-01-01

This Letter investigates a hybrid quantum system combining cavity quantum electrodynamics and optomechanics. The Hamiltonian problem of a photon mode coupled to a two-level atom via a Jaynes-Cummings coupling and to a mechanical mode via radiation pressure coupling is solved analytically. The atom-cavity polariton number operator commutes with the total Hamiltonian leading to an exact description in terms of tripartite atom-cavity-mechanics polarons. We demonstrate the possibility to obtain cooling of mechanical motion at the single-polariton level and describe the peculiar quantum statistics of phonons in such an unconventional regime.

Secure videoconferencing equipment switching system and method

DOEpatents

Hansen, Michael E [Livermore, CA

2009-01-13

A switching system and method are provided to facilitate use of videoconference facilities over a plurality of security levels. The system includes a switch coupled to a plurality of codecs and communication networks. Audio/Visual peripheral components are connected to the switch. The switch couples control and data signals between the Audio/Visual peripheral components and one but nor both of the plurality of codecs. The switch additionally couples communication networks of the appropriate security level to each of the codecs. In this manner, a videoconferencing facility is provided for use on both secure and non-secure networks.

49 CFR 210.33 - Operation standards (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). 210.33 Section 210.33 Transportation Other... (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). (a) Measurement on receiving property of the noise emission levels from switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car...

Secure videoconferencing equipment switching system and method

DOEpatents

Dirks, David H; Gomes, Diane; Stewart, Corbin J; Fischer, Robert A

2013-04-30

Examples of systems described herein include videoconferencing systems having audio/visual components coupled to a codec. The codec may be configured by a control system. Communication networks having different security levels may be alternately coupled to the codec following appropriate configuration by the control system. The control system may also be coupled to the communication networks.

49 CFR 210.33 - Operation standards (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). 210.33 Section 210.33 Transportation Other... (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). (a) Measurement on receiving property of the noise emission levels from switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car...

49 CFR 210.33 - Operation standards (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). 210.33 Section 210.33 Transportation Other... (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). (a) Measurement on receiving property of the noise emission levels from switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car...

49 CFR 210.33 - Operation standards (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). 210.33 Section 210.33 Transportation Other... (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). (a) Measurement on receiving property of the noise emission levels from switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car...

49 CFR 210.33 - Operation standards (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). 210.33 Section 210.33 Transportation Other... (switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car coupling operations, and retarders). (a) Measurement on receiving property of the noise emission levels from switcher locomotives, load cell test stands, car...

Conservative tightly-coupled simulations of stochastic multiscale systems

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Taverniers, Søren; Pigarov, Alexander Y.; Tartakovsky, Daniel M., E-mail: dmt@ucsd.edu

2016-05-15

Multiphysics problems often involve components whose macroscopic dynamics is driven by microscopic random fluctuations. The fidelity of simulations of such systems depends on their ability to propagate these random fluctuations throughout a computational domain, including subdomains represented by deterministic solvers. When the constituent processes take place in nonoverlapping subdomains, system behavior can be modeled via a domain-decomposition approach that couples separate components at the interfaces between these subdomains. Its coupling algorithm has to maintain a stable and efficient numerical time integration even at high noise strength. We propose a conservative domain-decomposition algorithm in which tight coupling is achieved by employingmore » either Picard's or Newton's iterative method. Coupled diffusion equations, one of which has a Gaussian white-noise source term, provide a computational testbed for analysis of these two coupling strategies. Fully-converged (“implicit”) coupling with Newton's method typically outperforms its Picard counterpart, especially at high noise levels. This is because the number of Newton iterations scales linearly with the amplitude of the Gaussian noise, while the number of Picard iterations can scale superlinearly. At large time intervals between two subsequent inter-solver communications, the solution error for single-iteration (“explicit”) Picard's coupling can be several orders of magnitude higher than that for implicit coupling. Increasing the explicit coupling's communication frequency reduces this difference, but the resulting increase in computational cost can make it less efficient than implicit coupling at similar levels of solution error, depending on the communication frequency of the latter and the noise strength. This trend carries over into higher dimensions, although at high noise strength explicit coupling may be the only computationally viable option.« less

Shallow-trap-induced positive absorptive two-beam coupling 'gain' and light-induced transparency in nominally undoped barium titanate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garrett, M. H.; Tayebati, P.; Chang, J. Y.; Jenssen, H. P.; Warde, C.

1992-01-01

The asymmetry of beam coupling with respect to the orientation of the polar axis in a nominally undoped barium titanate crystal is used to determine the electro-optic and absorptive 'gain' in the usual beam-coupling geometry. For small grating wave vectors, the electrooptic coupling vanishes but the absorptive coupling remains finite and positive. Positive absorptive coupling at small grating wave vectors is correlated with the light-induced transparency of the crystal described herein. The intensity and grating wave vector dependence of the electrooptic and absorptive coupling, and the light-induced transparency are consistent with a model incorporating deep and shallow levels.

A comparison of the coupled cluster and internally contracted averaged coupled-pair functional levels of theory for the calculation of the MCH2(+) binding energies for M = Sc to Cu

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauschlicher, Charles W., Jr.; Partridge, Harry; Scuseria, Gustavo E.

1992-01-01

The correlation contribution to the M-C binding energy for the MCH2(+) systems can exceed 100 kcal/mol. At the self-consistent field (SCF) level, these systems can be more than 50 kcal/mol above the fragment energies. In spite of the poor zeroth-order reference, the coupled cluster single and double excitation method with a perturbational estimate of triple excitations, CCSD(T), method is shown to provide an accurate description of these systems. The maximum difference between the CCSD(T) and internally contracted averaged coupled-pair functional binding energies is 1.5 kcal/mol for CrCH2(+), with the remaining systems agreeing to within 1.0 kcal/mol.

The Effect of the Family Training Program on Married Women's Couple-Burnout Levels

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sirin, Hatice Deveci; Deniz, M. Engin

2016-01-01

This study aims to investigate the effect of Modules 2 and 3 of the Family Communication Section of the Family Training Program as prepared by the Ministry of Family and Social Policies on married women's couple-burnout levels. The study group consists of 40 married women in total: 20 constituting the experimental group and the remaining 20…

The Effectiveness of Couple and Individual Relationship Education: Distress as a Moderator.

PubMed

Carlson, Ryan G; Rappleyea, Damon L; Daire, Andrew P; Harris, Steven M; Liu, Xiaofeng

2017-03-01

Current literature yields mixed results about the effectiveness of relationship education (RE) with low-income participants and those who experience a high level of individual or relational distress. Scholars have called for research that examines whether initial levels of distress act as a moderator of RE outcomes. To test whether initial levels of relationship and/or individual distress moderate the effectiveness of RE, this study used two samples, one of couples who received couple-oriented relationship education with their partner (n = 192 couples) and one of individuals in a relationship who received individual-oriented RE by themselves (n = 60 individuals). We delivered RE in a community-based setting serving primarily low-income participants. For those attending with a partner, there was a significant interaction between gender, initial distress, and time. Findings indicate that women who were relationally distressed before RE reported the largest pre-postgains. Those who attended an individual-oriented RE program reported significant decreases in individual distress from pre to post, but no significant relationship gains. Findings also suggest that initial levels of distress did not moderate the effectiveness of individual-oriented RE. © 2015 Family Process Institute.

Coupling between the continental carbon and water cycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gentine, P.; Lemordant, L. A.; Green, J. K.

2017-12-01

The continental carbon adn water cycles are fundamentally coupled through leaf gas exchange at the stomata level. IN this presnetation we will emphasize the importance of this coupling for the future of the water cycle (runoff, evaporation, soil moisture) and in turn the implications for the carbon cycle and the capacity of continents to act as a carbon dioxyde sink in the future. Opprtunites from coupled carbon-water monitoring platforms will be then emphasized.

Cable coupling lightning transient qualification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cook, M.

1989-01-01

Simulated lightning strike testing of instrumentation cabling on the redesigned solid rocket motor was performed. Testing consisted of subjecting the lightning evaluation test article to simulated lightning strikes and evaluating the effects of instrumentation cable transients on cables within the system tunnel. The maximum short-circuit current induced onto a United Space Boosters, Inc., operational flight cable within the systems tunnel was 92 A, and the maximum induced open-circuit voltage was 316 V. These levels were extrapolated to the worst-case (200 kA) condition of NASA specification NSTS 07636 and were also scaled to full-scale redesigned solid rocket motor dimensions. Testing showed that voltage coupling to cables within the systems tunnel can be reduced 40 to 90 dB and that current coupling to cables within the systems tunnel can be reduced 30 to 70 dB with the use of braided metallic sock shields around cables that are external to the systems tunnel. Testing also showed that current and voltage levels induced onto cables within the systems tunnel are partially dependant on the cables' relative locations within the systems tunnel. Results of current injections to the systems tunnel indicate that the dominant coupling mode on cables within the systems tunnel is not from instrumentation cables but from coupling through the systems tunnel cover seam apertures. It is recommended that methods of improving the electrical bonding between individual sections of the systems tunnel covers be evaluated. Further testing to better characterize redesigned solid rocket motor cable coupling effects as an aid in developing methods to reduce coupling levels, particularly with respect to cable placement within the systems tunnel, is also recommended.

Investigating spousal concordance of diabetes through statistical analysis and data mining.

PubMed

Wang, Jong-Yi; Liu, Chiu-Shong; Lung, Chi-Hsuan; Yang, Ya-Tun; Lin, Ming-Hung

2017-01-01

Spousal clustering of diabetes merits attention. Whether old-age vulnerability or a shared family environment determines the concordance of diabetes is also uncertain. This study investigated the spousal concordance of diabetes and compared the risk of diabetes concordance between couples and noncouples by using nationally representative data. A total of 22,572 individuals identified from the 2002-2013 National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan constituted 5,643 couples and 5,643 noncouples through 1:1 dual propensity score matching (PSM). Factors associated with concordance in both spouses with diabetes were analyzed at the individual level. The risk of diabetes concordance between couples and noncouples was compared at the couple level. Logistic regression was the main statistical method. Statistical data were analyzed using SAS 9.4. C&RT and Apriori of data mining conducted in IBM SPSS Modeler 13 served as a supplement to statistics. High odds of the spousal concordance of diabetes were associated with old age, middle levels of urbanization, and high comorbidities (all P < 0.05). The dual PSM analysis revealed that the risk of diabetes concordance was significantly higher in couples (5.19%) than in noncouples (0.09%; OR = 61.743, P < 0.0001). A high concordance rate of diabetes in couples may indicate the influences of assortative mating and shared environment. Diabetes in a spouse implicates its risk in the partner. Family-based diabetes care that emphasizes the screening of couples at risk of diabetes by using the identified risk factors is suggested in prospective clinical practice interventions.

Investigating spousal concordance of diabetes through statistical analysis and data mining

PubMed Central

Liu, Chiu-Shong; Lung, Chi-Hsuan; Yang, Ya-Tun; Lin, Ming-Hung

2017-01-01

Objective Spousal clustering of diabetes merits attention. Whether old-age vulnerability or a shared family environment determines the concordance of diabetes is also uncertain. This study investigated the spousal concordance of diabetes and compared the risk of diabetes concordance between couples and noncouples by using nationally representative data. Methods A total of 22,572 individuals identified from the 2002–2013 National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan constituted 5,643 couples and 5,643 noncouples through 1:1 dual propensity score matching (PSM). Factors associated with concordance in both spouses with diabetes were analyzed at the individual level. The risk of diabetes concordance between couples and noncouples was compared at the couple level. Logistic regression was the main statistical method. Statistical data were analyzed using SAS 9.4. C&RT and Apriori of data mining conducted in IBM SPSS Modeler 13 served as a supplement to statistics. Results High odds of the spousal concordance of diabetes were associated with old age, middle levels of urbanization, and high comorbidities (all P < 0.05). The dual PSM analysis revealed that the risk of diabetes concordance was significantly higher in couples (5.19%) than in noncouples (0.09%; OR = 61.743, P < 0.0001). Conclusions A high concordance rate of diabetes in couples may indicate the influences of assortative mating and shared environment. Diabetes in a spouse implicates its risk in the partner. Family-based diabetes care that emphasizes the screening of couples at risk of diabetes by using the identified risk factors is suggested in prospective clinical practice interventions. PMID:28817654

PULSE HEIGHT ANALYZER

DOEpatents

Johnstone, C.W.

1958-01-21

An anticoincidence device is described for a pair of adjacent channels of a multi-channel pulse height analyzer for preventing the lower channel from generating a count pulse in response to an input pulse when the input pulse has sufficient magnitude to reach the upper level channel. The anticoincidence circuit comprises a window amplifier, upper and lower level discriminators, and a biased-off amplifier. The output of the window amplifier is coupled to the inputs of the discriminators, the output of the upper level discriminator is connected to the resistance end of a series R-C network, the output of the lower level discriminator is coupled to the capacitance end of the R-C network, and the grid of the biased-off amplifier is coupled to the junction of the R-C network. In operation each discriminator produces a negative pulse output when the input pulse traverses its voltage setting. As a result of the connections to the R-C network, a trigger pulse will be sent to the biased-off amplifier when the incoming pulse level is sufficient to trigger only the lower level discriminator.

Atto-Joule, high-speed, low-loss plasmonic modulator based on adiabatic coupled waveguides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dalir, Hamed; Mokhtari-Koushyar, Farzad; Zand, Iman; Heidari, Elham; Xu, Xiaochuan; Pan, Zeyu; Sun, Shuai; Amin, Rubab; Sorger, Volker J.; Chen, Ray T.

2018-05-01

In atomic multi-level systems, adiabatic elimination (AE) is a method used to minimize complicity of the system by eliminating irrelevant and strongly coupled levels by detuning them from one another. Such a three-level system, for instance, can be mapped onto physically in the form of a three-waveguide system. Actively detuning the coupling strength between the respective waveguide modes allows modulating light to propagate through the device, as proposed here. The outer waveguides act as an effective two-photonic-mode system similar to ground and excited states of a three-level atomic system, while the center waveguide is partially plasmonic. In AE regime, the amplitude of the middle waveguide oscillates much faster when compared to the outer waveguides leading to a vanishing field build up. As a result, the plasmonic intermediate waveguide becomes a "dark state," hence nearly zero decibel insertion loss is expected with modulation depth (extinction ratio) exceeding 25 dB. Here, the modulation mechanism relies on switching this waveguide system from a critical coupling regime to AE condition via electrostatically tuning the free-carrier concentration and hence the optical index of a thin indium thin oxide (ITO) layer resides in the plasmonic center waveguide. This alters the effective coupling length and the phase mismatching condition thus modulating in each of its outer waveguides. Our results also promise a power consumption as low as 49.74aJ/bit. Besides, we expected a modulation speed of 160 GHz reaching to millimeter wave range applications. Such anticipated performance is a direct result of both the unity-strong tunability of the plasmonic optical mode in conjunction with utilizing ultra-sensitive modal coupling between the critically coupled and the AE regimes. When taken together, this new class of modulators paves the way for next generation both for energy and speed conscience optical short-reach communication such as those found in interconnects.

Wideband Low Side Lobe Aperture Coupled Patch Phased Array Antennas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poduval, Dhruva

Low profile printed antenna arrays with wide bandwidth, high gain, and low Side Lobe Level (SLL) are in great demand for current and future commercial and military communication systems and radar. Aperture coupled patch antennas have been proposed to obtain wide impedance bandwidths in the past. Aperture coupling is preferred particularly for phased arrays because of their advantage of integration to other active devices and circuits, e.g. phase shifters, power amplifiers, low noise amplifiers, mixers etc. However, when designing such arrays, the interplay between array performance characteristics, such as gain, side lobe level, back lobe level, mutual coupling etc. must be understood and optimized under multiple design constraints, e.g. substrate material properties and thicknesses, element to element spacing, and feed lines and their orientation and arrangements with respect to the antenna elements. The focus of this thesis is to investigate, design, and develop an aperture coupled patch array with wide operating bandwidth (30%), high gain (17.5 dBi), low side lobe level (20 dB), and high Forward to Backward (F/B) ratio (21.8 dB). The target frequency range is 2.4 to 3 GHz given its wide application in WLAN, LTE (Long Term Evolution) and other communication systems. Notwithstanding that the design concept can very well be adapted at other frequencies. Specifically, a 16 element, 4 by 4 planar microstrip patch array is designed using HFSS and experimentally developed and tested. Starting from mutual coupling minimization a corporate feeding scheme is designed to achieve the needed performance. To reduce the SLL the corporate feeding network is redesigned to obtain a specific amplitude taper. Studies are conducted to determine the optimum location for a metallic reflector under the feed line to improve the F/B. An experimental prototype of the antenna was built and tested validating and demonstrating the performance levels expected from simulation predictions. Finally, simulated beam scanning in several angles of the array is shown considering specific phases for each antenna element in the array.

System-level view of geospace dynamics: Challenges for high-latitude ground-based observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Donovan, E.

2014-12-01

Increasingly, research programs including GEM, CEDAR, GEMSIS, GO Canada, and others are focusing on how geospace works as a system. Coupling sits at the heart of system level dynamics. In all cases, coupling is accomplished via fundamental processes such as reconnection and plasma waves, and can be between regions, energy ranges, species, scales, and energy reservoirs. Three views of geospace are required to attack system level questions. First, we must observe the fundamental processes that accomplish the coupling. This "observatory view" requires in situ measurements by satellite-borne instruments or remote sensing from powerful well-instrumented ground-based observatories organized around, for example, Incoherent Scatter Radars. Second, we need to see how this coupling is controlled and what it accomplishes. This demands quantitative observations of the system elements that are being coupled. This "multi-scale view" is accomplished by networks of ground-based instruments, and by global imaging from space. Third, if we take geospace as a whole, the system is too complicated, so at the top level we need time series of simple quantities such as indices that capture important aspects of the system level dynamics. This requires a "key parameter view" that is typically provided through indices such as AE and DsT. With the launch of MMS, and ongoing missions such as THEMIS, Cluster, Swarm, RBSP, and ePOP, we are entering a-once-in-a-lifetime epoch with a remarkable fleet of satellites probing processes at key regions throughout geospace, so the observatory view is secure. With a few exceptions, our key parameter view provides what we need. The multi-scale view, however, is compromised by space/time scales that are important but under-sampled, combined extent of coverage and resolution that falls short of what we need, and inadequate conjugate observations. In this talk, I present an overview of what we need for taking system level research to its next level, and how high latitude ground based observations can address these challenges.

Two Way Coupling RAM-SCB to the Space Weather Modeling Framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Welling, D. T.; Jordanova, V. K.; Zaharia, S. G.; Toth, G.

2010-12-01

The Ring current Atmosphere interaction Model with Self-Consistently calculated 3D Magnetic field (RAM-SCB) has been used to successfully study inner magnetosphere dynamics during different solar wind and magnetosphere conditions. Recently, one way coupling of RAM-SCB with the Space Weather Modeling Framework (SWMF) has been achieved to replace all data or empirical inputs with those obtained through first-principles-based codes: magnetic field and plasma flux outer boundary conditions are provided by the Block Adaptive Tree Solar wind Roe-type Upwind Scheme (BATS-R-US) MHD code, convection electric field is provided by the Ridley Ionosphere Model (RIM), and ion composition is provided by the Polar Wind Outflow Model (PWOM) combined with a multi-species MHD approach. These advances, though creating a powerful inner magnetosphere virtual laboratory, neglect the important mechanisms through which the ring current feeds back into the whole system, primarily the stretching of the magnetic field lines and shielding of the convection electric field through strong region two Field Aligned Currents (FACs). In turn, changing the magnetosphere in this way changes the evolution of the ring current. To address this shortcoming, the coupling has been expanded to include feedback from RAM-SCB to the other coupled codes: region two FACs are returned to the RIM while total plasma pressure is used to nudge the MHD solution towards the RAM-SCB values. The impacts of the two way coupling are evaluated on three levels: the global magnetospheric level, focusing on the impact on the ionosphere and the shape of the magnetosphere, the regional level, examining the impact on the development of the ring current in terms of energy density, anisotropy, and plasma distribution, and the local level to compare the new results to in-situ measurements of magnetic and electric field and plasma. The results will also be compared to past simulations using the one way coupling and no coupling whatsoever. This work is the first to fully couple an anisotropic kinetic ring current code with a self-consistently calculated magnetic field to a set of global models.

Two way coupling RAM-SCB to the space weather modeling framework

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Welling, Daniel T; Jordanova, Vania K; Zaharia, Sorin G

The Ring current Atmosphere interaction Model with Self-Consistently calculated 3D Magnetic field (RAM-SCB) has been used to successfully study inner magnetosphere dynamics during different solar wind and magnetosphere conditions. Recently, one way coupling of RAM-SCB with the Space Weather Modeling Framework (SWMF) has been achieved to replace all data or empirical inputs with those obtained through first-principles-based codes: magnetic field and plasma flux outer boundary conditions are provided by the Block Adaptive Tree Solar wind Roe-type Upwind Scheme (BATS-R-US) MHO code, convection electric field is provided by the Ridley Ionosphere Model (RIM), and ion composition is provided by the Polarmore » Wind Outflow Model (PWOM) combined with a multi-species MHO approach. These advances, though creating a powerful inner magnetosphere virtual laboratory, neglect the important mechanisms through which the ring current feeds back into the whole system, primarily the stretching of the magnetic field lines and shielding of the convection electric field through strong region two Field Aligned Currents (FACs). In turn, changing the magnetosphere in this way changes the evolution of the ring current. To address this shortcoming, the coupling has been expanded to include feedback from RAM-SCB to the other coupled codes: region two FACs are returned to the RIM while total plasma pressure is used to nudge the MHO solution towards the RAMSCB values. The impacts of the two way coupling are evaluated on three levels: the global magnetospheric level, focusing on the impact on the ionosphere and the shape of the magnetosphere, the regional level, examining the impact on the development of the ring current in terms of energy density, anisotropy, and plasma distribution, and the local level to compare the new results to in-situ measurements of magnetic and electric field and plasma. The results will also be compared to past simulations using the one way coupling and no coupling whatsoever. This work is the first to fully couple an anisotropic kinetic ring current code with a selfconsistently calculated magnetic field to a set of global models.« less

On the Home Front: Stress for Recently Deployed Army Couples

PubMed Central

Allen, Elizabeth S.; Rhoades, Galena K.; Stanley, Scott M.; Markman, Howard J.

2014-01-01

Military couples who have experienced deployment and reintegration in current U.S. military operations frequently experience stress regarding the dangers and effects of such experiences. The current study evaluated a sample of 300 couples with an active duty Army husband and civilian spouse who experienced a deployment within the year prior to the survey (conducted in 2007). Wives generally reported greater levels of emotional stress compared to husbands. Overall, higher levels of stress were found for couples who reported lower income and greater economic strain, perceive the need for more support and are unsure about how to get support, have more marital conflict, and are generally less satisfied with the Army and the current mission. Husband combat exposure was also associated with more stress for husbands and wives. Additionally, for wives, stress was related to greater child behavior problems and a sense of less Army concern for families. The results suggest areas of intervention with military couples to help them cope with the challenges of military life and deployment. PMID:21564063

Couples' cultural values, shared parenting, and family emotional climate within Mexican American families.

PubMed

Sotomayor-Peterson, Marcela; Figueredo, Aurelio J; Christensen, Donna H; Taylor, Angela R

2012-06-01

This study tested a model of shared parenting as its centerpiece that incorporates cultural values as predictors and family emotional climate as the outcome variable of interest. We aimed to assess the predictive power of the Mexican cultural values of familismo and simpatia over couples' shared parenting practices. We anticipated that higher levels of shared parenting would predict family emotional climate. The participants were 61 Mexican American, low income couples, with at least one child between 3 and 4 years of age, recruited from a home-based Head Start program. The predictive model demonstrated excellent goodness of fit, supporting the hypothesis that a positive emotional climate within the family is fostered when Mexican American couples practice a sufficient level of shared parenting. Empirical evidence was previously scarce on this proposition. The findings also provide evidence for the role of cultural values, highlighting the importance of family solidarity and avoidance of confrontation as a pathway to shared parenting within Mexican American couples. © FPI, Inc.

Ro-vibrational averaging of the isotropic hyperfine coupling constant for the methyl radical

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Adam, Ahmad Y.; Jensen, Per, E-mail: jensen@uni-wuppertal.de; Yachmenev, Andrey

2015-12-28

We present the first variational calculation of the isotropic hyperfine coupling constant of the carbon-13 atom in the CH{sub 3} radical for temperatures T = 0, 96, and 300 K. It is based on a newly calculated high level ab initio potential energy surface and hyperfine coupling constant surface of CH{sub 3} in the ground electronic state. The ro-vibrational energy levels, expectation values for the coupling constant, and its temperature dependence were calculated variationally by using the methods implemented in the computer program TROVE. Vibrational energies and vibrational and temperature effects for coupling constant are found to be in verymore » good agreement with the available experimental data. We found, in agreement with previous studies, that the vibrational effects constitute about 44% of the constant’s equilibrium value, originating mainly from the large amplitude out-of-plane bending motion and that the temperature effects play a minor role.« less

Couples HIV counselling and couple relationships in India, Georgia and the Dominican Republic.

PubMed

Tiendrebeogo, Thierry; Plazy, Melanie; Darak, Shrinivas; Miric, Marija; Perez-Then, Eddy; Butsashvili, Maia; Tchendjou, Patrice; Dabis, François; Orne-Gliemann, Joanna

2017-11-25

Couples HIV counseling and testing is essential for combination HIV prevention, but its uptake remains very low. We aimed to evaluate factors associated with couples HIV counseling uptake in India, Georgia and the Dominican Republic, as part of the ANRS 12127 Prenahtest intervention trial. Pregnant women ≥15 years, attending their first antenatal care (ANC) session between March and September 2009, self-reporting a stable partner, and having received couple-oriented post-test HIV counseling (trial intervention) were included. Individuals and couple characteristics associated with the acceptability of couples HIV counseling were assessed using multivariable logistic regression for each study site. Among 711 women included (232, 240 and 239 in the Dominican Republic, Georgia and India, respectively), the uptake of couples HIV counseling was 9.1% in the Dominican Republic, 13.8% in Georgia and 36.8% in India. The uptake of couples HIV counseling was associated with women having been accompanied by their partner to ANC, and never having used a condom with their partner in the Dominican Republic; with women having been accompanied by their partner to ANC in India; with women having a higher educational level than their partner and having ever discussed HIV with their partner in Georgia. Couple HIV counseling uptake was overall low. Strategies adapted to local socio-cultural contexts, aiming at improving women's education level, or tackling gender norms to facilitate the presence of men in reproductive health services, should be considered. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01494961 . Registered December 15, 2011. (Retrospectively registered).

Transactional Analysis and Gestalt Therapy Used in Conjunction with Group Counseling for Married Couples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sisson, P. Joe; And Others

1977-01-01

This study investigated the effects of combining Transactional Analysis and Gestalt therapy with group counseling for married couples. Six treatment couples and 12 control group members were pre/post administered the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale to assess changes in the level of their self-esteem. There were some significant results. (Author/JEL)

Couples Experiencing Financial Strain: What We Know and What We Can Do

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Falconier, Mariana K.; Epstein, Norman B.

2011-01-01

Although much has been written about how to help couples negotiate regarding different spending styles or risk tolerance levels, less has been said about ways in which therapists can assist couples to understand each other's experience of distress regarding financial issues and find constructive individual and dyadic ways to reduce the distress.…

Coupled Pendulums: A Physical System for Laboratory Investigations at Upper Secondary School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Picciarelli, Vittorio; Stella, Rosa

2010-01-01

The topic of coupled oscillations is rich in physical content which is both interesting and complex. The study of the time evolution of coupled oscillator systems involves a mathematical formalization beyond the level of the upper secondary school student's competence. Here, we present an original approach, suitable even for secondary students, to…

Latent Differential Equation Modeling of Self-Regulatory and Coregulatory Affective Processes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Steele, Joel S.; Ferrer, Emilio

2011-01-01

We examine emotion self-regulation and coregulation in romantic couples using daily self-reports of positive and negative affect. We fit these data using a damped linear oscillator model specified as a latent differential equation to investigate affect dynamics at the individual level and coupled influences for the 2 partners in each couple.…

Gay Male Couples’ Attitudes Toward Using Couples-based Voluntary HIV Counseling and Testing

PubMed Central

Mitchell, Jason W.

2015-01-01

Many men who have sex with men (MSM) acquire HIV from their primary male partners while in a relationship. Studies with gay couples have demonstrated that relationship characteristics and testing behaviors are important to examine for HIV prevention. Recently, couples-based voluntary HIV counseling and testing (CVCT) has become available to male couples throughout the U.S. However, HIV-negative couples’ attitudes toward using CVCT and how their relationship characteristics may affect their use of CVCT remain largely unknown. This information is particularly relevant for organizations that offer CVCT. To assess couples’ attitudes, and associated factors toward using CVCT, a cross-sectional study design was used with a novel Internet-based recruitment method to collect dyadic data from a national sample of 275 HIV-negative gay couples. Multivariate multilevel modeling was used to identify factors associated with differences between and within couples about their attitudes towards using CVCT. Findings revealed that couples were “somewhat” to “very likely” to use CVCT. More positive attitudes toward using CVCT were associated with couples who had higher levels of relationship satisfaction and commitment toward their sexual agreement and among those who had at least one partner having had sex outside of the relationship. Less positive attitude toward using CVCT was associated with couples who had higher levels of trust toward their partners being dependable. Differences within couples, including age between partners, whether sex had occurred outside of the relationship, and value toward a sexual agreement also affected their attitudes toward using CVCT. Providing additional testing methods may help HIV-negative gay couples better manage their HIV risk. PMID:24213623

Controlling single-photon transport in an optical waveguide coupled to an optomechanical cavity with a Λ-type three-level atom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yu-Qing; Zhu, Zhong-Hua; Peng, Zhao-Hui; Jiang, Chun-Lei; Chai, Yi-Feng; Hai, Lian; Tan, Lei

2018-06-01

We theoretically study the single-photon transport along a one-dimensional optical waveguide coupled to an optomechanical cavity containing a Λ-type three-level atom. Our numerical results show that the transmission spectra of the incident photon can be well controlled by such a hybrid atom-optomechanical system. The effects of the optomechanical coupling strength, the classical laser beam applied to the atom, atom-cavity detuning, and atomic dissipation on the single-photon transport properties are analyzed. It is of particular interest that an analogous double electromagnetically induced transparency emerges in the single-photon transmission spectra.

[Speech rhythm disorders due to synchronization induced in coupled inhibitory neurons].

PubMed

Skliarov, O P

2007-01-01

Leaked-integrate-and-fire coupled oscillators (LIFs) were used as a model of electrophysiological activity. The activity of these oscillators determines the speech rhythm, which is governed by the square-law map with inhibition as a controlling parameter. Regular rhythms of convulsive repetitions at early stuttering are changed, however, by a mixture of repetitions and neurotic pauses. This mixture is a "stumbling block" for clinicians. Due to delays, only inhibitory LIFs are capable to create the synchronic activity in-phase or in-anti-phase at medial or at low coupling. This activity has the form of slow oscillations damping to the background level. Splashes of the activity above or below the level lead to neurotic disorders or to convulsive repetitions. Really, increased due to GABA the coupling leads to a reduction of stuttering.

Conflict, social support, and relationship quality: an observational study of heterosexual, gay male, and lesbian couples' communication.

PubMed

Julien, Danielle; Chartrand, Elise; Simard, Marie-Claude; Bouthillier, Donald; Bégin, Jean

2003-09-01

Data from 42 heterosexual, 46 gay male, and 33 lesbian couples were used to assess the contribution of conflict and support discussions to relationship quality. Couples completed questionnaires, and videotaped discussions were coded for levels of negative and positive behaviors. Correlations showed that behaviors were associated with relationship quality in the expected directions. Hierarchical linear modeling analyses assessed the unique contributions of individual and dyadic behaviors to the variability of relationship quality. The findings indicated that, beyond the contribution of individual negative behaviors in the conflict task, the variables of dyadic positive behaviors in the conflict task, individual positive behaviors in the support task, and perceived help accounted for unexplained variance in relationship quality. There were no differences between types of couples on levels of behaviors or on their contributions to relationship quality.

Conflict resolution patterns and violence perpetration in adolescent couples: A gender-sensitive mixed-methods approach.

PubMed

Fernet, Mylène; Hébert, Martine; Paradis, Alison

2016-06-01

This study used a sequential two-phase explanatory design. The first phase of this mixed-methods design aimed to explore conflict resolution strategies in adolescent dating couples, and the second phase to document, from both the perspective of the individual and of the couple, dyadic interaction patterns distinguishing youth inflicting dating violence from those who do not. A sample of 39 heterosexual couples (mean age 17.8 years) participated in semi-structured interviews and were observed during a 45 min dyadic interaction. At phase 1, qualitative analysis revealed three main types of conflict resolution strategies: 1) negotiating expectations and individual needs; 2) avoiding conflicts or their resolution; 3) imposing personal needs and rules through the use of violence. At phase 2, we focused on couples with conflictive patterns. Results indicate that couples who inflict violence differ from nonviolent couples by their tendency to experience conflicts when in disagreement and to resort to negative affects as a resolution strategy. In addition, while at an individual level, they show a tendency to withdraw from conflict and to use less positive affect, at a dyadic level they present less symmetry. Results offer important insights for prevention programs. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

h → μτ and muon g - 2 in the alignment limit of two-Higgs-doublet model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Lei; Yang, Shuo; Han, Xiao-Fang

2017-06-01

We examine the h → μτ and muon g - 2 in the exact alignment limit of two-Higgs-doublet model. In this case, the couplings of the SM-like Higgs to the SM particles are the same as the Higgs couplings in the SM at the tree level, and the tree-level lepton-flavor-violating coupling hμτ is absent. We assume the lepton-flavor-violating μτ excess observed by CMS to be respectively from the other neutral Higgses, H and A, which almost degenerates with the SM-like Higgs at the 125 GeV. After imposing the relevant theoretical constraints and experimental constraints from the precision electroweak data, B-meson decays, τ decays and Higgs searches, we find that the muon g - 2 anomaly and μτ excess favor the small lepton Yukawa coupling and top Yukawa coupling of the non-SM-like Higgs around 125 GeV, and the lepton-flavor-violating coupling is sensitive to another heavy neutral Higgs mass. In addition, if the μτ excess is from H around 125 GeV, the experimental data of the heavy Higgs decaying into μτ favor mA > 230 GeV for a relatively large H t bar t coupling.

Quantum Simulation of the Quantum Rabi Model in a Trapped Ion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lv, Dingshun; An, Shuoming; Liu, Zhenyu; Zhang, Jing-Ning; Pedernales, Julen S.; Lamata, Lucas; Solano, Enrique; Kim, Kihwan

2018-04-01

The quantum Rabi model, involving a two-level system and a bosonic field mode, is arguably the simplest and most fundamental model describing quantum light-matter interactions. Historically, due to the restricted parameter regimes of natural light-matter processes, the richness of this model has been elusive in the lab. Here, we experimentally realize a quantum simulation of the quantum Rabi model in a single trapped ion, where the coupling strength between the simulated light mode and atom can be tuned at will. The versatility of the demonstrated quantum simulator enables us to experimentally explore the quantum Rabi model in detail, including a wide range of otherwise unaccessible phenomena, as those happening in the ultrastrong and deep strong-coupling regimes. In this sense, we are able to adiabatically generate the ground state of the quantum Rabi model in the deep strong-coupling regime, where we are able to detect the nontrivial entanglement between the bosonic field mode and the two-level system. Moreover, we observe the breakdown of the rotating-wave approximation when the coupling strength is increased, and the generation of phonon wave packets that bounce back and forth when the coupling reaches the deep strong-coupling regime. Finally, we also measure the energy spectrum of the quantum Rabi model in the ultrastrong-coupling regime.

A novel simulation theory and model system for multi-field coupling pipe-flow system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yang; Jiang, Fan; Cai, Guobiao; Xu, Xu

2017-09-01

Due to the lack of a theoretical basis for multi-field coupling in many system-level models, a novel set of system-level basic equations for flow/heat transfer/combustion coupling is put forward. Then a finite volume model of quasi-1D transient flow field for multi-species compressible variable-cross-section pipe flow is established by discretising the basic equations on spatially staggered grids. Combining with the 2D axisymmetric model for pipe-wall temperature field and specific chemical reaction mechanisms, a finite volume model system is established; a set of specific calculation methods suitable for multi-field coupling system-level research is structured for various parameters in this model; specific modularisation simulation models can be further derived in accordance with specific structures of various typical components in a liquid propulsion system. This novel system can also be used to derive two sub-systems: a flow/heat transfer two-field coupling pipe-flow model system without chemical reaction and species diffusion; and a chemical equilibrium thermodynamic calculation-based multi-field coupling system. The applicability and accuracy of two sub-systems have been verified through a series of dynamic modelling and simulations in earlier studies. The validity of this system is verified in an air-hydrogen combustion sample system. The basic equations and the model system provide a unified universal theory and numerical system for modelling and simulation and even virtual testing of various pipeline systems.

Nuclear spin-spin coupling in a van der Waals-bonded system: xenon dimer.

PubMed

Vaara, Juha; Hanni, Matti; Jokisaari, Jukka

2013-03-14

Nuclear spin-spin coupling over van der Waals bond has recently been observed via the frequency shift of solute protons in a solution containing optically hyperpolarized (129)Xe nuclei. We carry out a first-principles computational study of the prototypic van der Waals-bonded xenon dimer, where the spin-spin coupling between two magnetically non-equivalent isotopes, J((129)Xe - (131)Xe), is observable. We use relativistic theory at the four-component Dirac-Hartree-Fock and Dirac-density-functional theory levels using novel completeness-optimized Gaussian basis sets and choosing the functional based on a comparison with correlated ab initio methods at the nonrelativistic level. J-coupling curves are provided at different levels of theory as functions of the internuclear distance in the xenon dimer, demonstrating cross-coupling effects between relativity and electron correlation for this property. Calculations on small Xe clusters are used to estimate the importance of many-atom effects on J((129)Xe - (131)Xe). Possibilities of observing J((129)Xe - (131)Xe) in liquid xenon are critically examined, based on molecular dynamics simulation. A simplistic spherical model is set up for the xenon dimer confined in a cavity, such as in microporous materials. It is shown that the on the average shorter internuclear distance enforced by the confinement increases the magnitude of the coupling as compared to the bulk liquid case, rendering J((129)Xe - (131)Xe) in a cavity a feasible target for experimental investigation.

Visualizing, Approximating, and Understanding Black-Hole Binaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nichols, David A.

Numerical-relativity simulations of black-hole binaries and advancements in gravitational-wave detectors now make it possible to learn more about the collisions of compact astrophysical bodies. To be able to infer more about the dynamical behavior of these objects requires a fuller analysis of the connection between the dynamics of pairs of black holes and their emitted gravitational waves. The chapters of this thesis describe three approaches to learn more about the relationship between the dynamics of black-hole binaries and their gravitational waves: modeling momentum flow in binaries with the Landau-Lifshitz formalism, approximating binary dynamics near the time of merger with post-Newtonian and black-hole-perturbation theories, and visualizing spacetime curvature with tidal tendexes and frame-drag vortexes. In Chapters 2--4, my collaborators and I present a method to quantify the flow of momentum in black-hole binaries using the Landau-Lifshitz formalism. Chapter 2 reviews an intuitive version of the formalism in the first-post-Newtonian approximation that bears a strong resemblance to Maxwell's theory of electromagnetism. Chapter 3 applies this approximation to relate the simultaneous bobbing motion of rotating black holes in the superkick configuration---equal-mass black holes with their spins anti-aligned and in the orbital plane---to the flow of momentum in the spacetime, prior to the black holes' merger. Chapter 4 then uses the Landau-Lifshitz formalism to explain the dynamics of a head-on merger of spinning black holes, whose spins are anti-aligned and transverse to the infalling motion. Before they merge, the black holes move with a large, transverse, velocity, which we can explain using the post-Newtonian approximation; as the holes merge and form a single black hole, we can use the Landau-Lifshitz formalism without any approximations to connect the slowing of the final black hole to its absorbing momentum density during the merger. In Chapters 5--7, we discuss using analytical approximations, such as post-Newtonian and black-hole-perturbation theories, to gain further understanding into how gravitational waves are generated by black-hole binaries. Chapter 5 presents a way of combining post-Newtonian and black-hole-perturbation theories---which we call the hybrid method---for head-on mergers of black holes. It was able to produce gravitational waveforms and gravitational recoils that agreed well with comparable results from numerical-relativity simulations. Chapter 6 discusses a development of the hybrid model to include a radiation-reaction force, which is better suited for studying inspiralling black-hole binaries. The gravitational waveform from the hybrid method for inspiralling mergers agreed qualitatively with that from numerical-relativity simulations; when applied to the superkick configuration, it gave a simplified picture of the formation of the large black-hole kick. Chapter 7 describes an approximate method of calculating the frequencies of the ringdown gravitational waveforms of rotating black holes (quasinormal modes). The method generalizes a geometric interpretation of black-hole quasinormal modes and explains a degeneracy in the spectrum of these modes. In Chapters 8--11, we describe a new way of visualizing spacetime curvature using tools called tidal tendexes and frame-drag vortexes. This relies upon a time-space split of spacetime, which allows one to break the vacuum Riemann curvature tensor into electric and magnetic parts (symmetric, trace-free tensors that have simple physical interpretations). The regions where the eigenvalues of these tensors are large form the tendexes and vortexes of a spacetime, and the integral curves of their eigenvectors are its tendex and vortex lines, for the electric and magnetic parts, respectively. Chapter 8 provides an overview of these visualization tools and presents initial results from numerical-relativity simulations. Chapter 9 uses topological properties of vortex and tendex lines to classify properties of gravitational waves far from a source. Chapter 10 describes the formalism in more detail, and discusses the vortexes and tendexes of multipolar spacetimes in linearized gravity about flat space. The chapter helps to explain how near-zone vortexes and tendexes become gravitational waves far from a weakly gravitating, time-varying source. Chapter 11 is a detailed investigation of the vortexes and tendexes of stationary and perturbed black holes. It develops insight into how perturbations of (strongly gravitating) black holes extend from near the horizon to become gravitational waves.

Males with low serum levels of vitamin D have lower pregnancy rates when ovulation induction and timed intercourse are used as a treatment for infertile couples: results from a pilot study.

PubMed

Tartagni, Massimo; Matteo, Maria; Baldini, Domenico; Tartagni, Mario V; Alrasheed, Hala; De Salvia, Maria A; Loverro, Giuseppe; Montagnani, Monica

2015-11-21

Vitamin D (Vit D) is important for the regulation of reproductive physiology. In humans, maternal Vit D deficiency has been implicated in several reproductive- and pregnancy-related disorders. Very few data are available regarding the Vit D status in male partners of couples attempting pregnancy. This observational study (IRB Prot. N. 078/13) aimed to evaluate whether low Vit D serum levels in males might decrease the rate of successful conception in couples attempting pregnancy. Male and female partners of infertile couples (n = 102) were classified into 2 GROUPS according to normal (≥30 ng/ml) or low (below 30 ng/ml) serum Vit D levels in male partners. Semen analysis was performed in each male participant based on the WHO reference criteria. The female partners of both groups were subjected to 3 consecutive cycles of gonadotropin-induced mono-ovulation. The main outcome measures included the clinical pregnancy rate, delivery per patient and per cycle, and miscarriage rate between the 2 groups evaluated at the end of the three-month period of the study. In male partners of both groups, standard semen analysis did not highlight substantial differences in sperm concentration, sperm progressive motility, or typical form. The pregnancy rates per patient and per cycle and delivery rates per patient and per cycle were all significantly higher (p< 0.05) in couples with normal Vit D levels. These results suggest the existence of a relationship between male Vit D serum levels and semen ability to begin a pregnancy during cycles of timed vaginal intercourse.

Stress Coupling Relationship between Mantle Convection and Seismogenic Layer in Southeastern Tibetan Plateau and its Geodynamic Implications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiang, H.

2015-12-01

The lithospheric stress states and interlayer coupling interaction is of great significant in studying plate driven mechanism and seismogenic environment. The coupling relationship between mantle convection generated drag stress in the lithospheric base and seismogenic layer stress in the crust represents the lithospheric mechanical coupling intensity level. We calculate the lithospheric bottom mantle convection stress field of the southeastern Tibetan Plateau using 11~36 spherical harmonic coefficients of gravity model EGM2008. Meanwhile we collect and organize the focal mechanism of 1131 earthquakes that occurred from 2000 to now in Sichuan-Yunnan region. The current seismogenic layer stress and stress field before Lushan earthquake are calculated by the damping regional stress tensor inversion. We further analyze the correlation between the two kinds of stress fields, then discuss the relation between mechanics coupling situation and strong earthquakes in different regions. The results show that: (1) Most of Sichuan-Yunnan region is located in the coupling and decoupling intermediate zone. Coupling zones distribute on the basis of block, the eastern South China block has strong coupling, and the coupling phenomenon also exists in parts of the northern Tibet block, Balyanlkalla block in the northwest and southwest Yunnan block. The decoupling mainly occurs in Songpan-Ganzi block, connecting with the strong coupling South China block and Longmenshan fault zone is their boundary. (2) We have analyzed seismogenic mechanism, then proposed the border zone of strong and weak coupling relation between mantle convection stress and seismogenic layer stress exists high seismic risk. The current coupling situation shows that Longmenshan fault zone is still in the large varying gradient area of coupling intensity level, it has conditions to accumulate energy and develop earthquakes. Other dangerous areas are: Mingjiang, Xianshuihe, Anninghe, Zemuhe, the Red River, Nantinghe fault zone and their neighboring areas.

HIV prevention awareness and practices among married couples in Malawi.

PubMed

Chirwa, Ellen; Malata, Address; Norr, Kathleen

2011-06-01

In this study we explored the level of awareness and practice on HIV prevention among married couples from selected communities in Malawi. We carried out the study from October to December, 2008 in four communities, two each from Chiradzulu and Chikhwawa districts of Malawi. We conducted face-to-face in-depth interviews with 30 couples in each district using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews lasted approximately 60-90 minutes. The husbands and wives were interviewed separately. The interviews were audio taped using a digital recorder. We wrote field notes during data collection and later reviewed them to provide insights into the data collection process. We computed descriptive statistics from the demographic data using SPSS version 16.0. We analyzed qualitative data using Atlas ti 5.0 computer software. The coded data generated themes and we present the themes in qualitative narration. The couples' ages ranged from 20 to 53 years, the majority (52%) being in the 20-31 year age group. Most of the couples (67%) attained only primary school education and 84% had been married only to the current partner. Most couples (83%) depended upon substance farming and 47% had been married for 3 to 9 years. The number of children per couple ranged from 1 to 10, most couples (83%) having between 1 and 5 children. All couples were aware of HIV prevention methods and talked about them in their marriages. Both wives and husbands initiated the discussions. Mutual fidelity and HIV testing were appropriate for couples to follow the HIV prevention methods. For most couples (54) there was mutual trust between husbands and wives, and members of only a few couples (6) doubted their partners' ability to maintain mutual fidelity. Actual situations of marital infidelity were however detected among 25 couples and often involved the husbands. A few couples (5) had been tested for HIV. All couples did not favor the use of condoms with a marriage partner as an HIV prevention method. The level of HIV prevention awareness among couples in Malawi is high and almost universal. However, there is low adoption of the HIV prevention methods among the couples because they are perceived to be couple unfriendly due to their incompatibility with the socio-cultural beliefs of the people. There is a need to target couples as units of intervention in the adoption of HIV prevention methods by rural communities.

Structural architecture supports functional organization in the human aging brain at a regionwise and network level.

PubMed

Zimmermann, Joelle; Ritter, Petra; Shen, Kelly; Rothmeier, Simon; Schirner, Michael; McIntosh, Anthony R

2016-07-01

Functional interactions in the brain are constrained by the underlying anatomical architecture, and structural and functional networks share network features such as modularity. Accordingly, age-related changes of structural connectivity (SC) may be paralleled by changes in functional connectivity (FC). We provide a detailed qualitative and quantitative characterization of the SC-FC coupling in human aging as inferred from resting-state blood oxygen-level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion-weighted imaging in a sample of 47 adults with an age range of 18-82. We revealed that SC and FC decrease with age across most parts of the brain and there is a distinct age-dependency of regionwise SC-FC coupling and network-level SC-FC relations. A specific pattern of SC-FC coupling predicts age more reliably than does regionwise SC or FC alone (r = 0.73, 95% CI = [0.7093, 0.8522]). Hence, our data propose that regionwise SC-FC coupling can be used to characterize brain changes in aging. Hum Brain Mapp 37:2645-2661, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Self-expansion and flow in couples' momentary experiences: an experience sampling study.

PubMed

Graham, James M

2008-09-01

The self-expansion model of close relationships posits that when couples engage in exciting and activating conjoint activities, they feel connected with their partners and more satisfied with their relationships. In the present study, the experience sampling method was used to examine the predictions of the self-expansion model in couples' momentary experiences. In addition, the author generated several new hypotheses by integrating the self-expansion model with existing research on flow. Over the course of 1 week, 20 couples were signaled at quasi-random intervals to provide data on 1,265 unique experiences. The results suggest that the level of activation experienced during an activity was positively related to experience-level relationship quality. This relationship was consistent across free-time and nonfree-time contexts and was mediated by positive affect. Activation was not found to predict later affect unless the level of activation exceeded what was typical for the individual. Also examined was the influence of interpersonal context and activity type on self-expansion. The results support the self-expansion model and suggest that it could be considered under the broader umbrella of flow.

Direct observation of vibrational energy dispersal via methyl torsions.

PubMed

Gardner, Adrian M; Tuttle, William D; Whalley, Laura E; Wright, Timothy G

2018-02-28

Explicit evidence for the role of methyl rotor levels in promoting energy dispersal is reported. A set of coupled zero-order vibration/vibration-torsion (vibtor) levels in the S 1 state of para -fluorotoluene ( p FT) are investigated. Two-dimensional laser-induced fluorescence (2D-LIF) and two-dimensional zero-kinetic-energy (2D-ZEKE) spectra are reported, and the assignment of the main features in both sets of spectra reveals that the methyl torsion is instrumental in providing a route for coupling between vibrational levels of different symmetry classes. We find that there is very localized, and selective, dissipation of energy via doorway states, and that, in addition to an increase in the density of states, a critical role of the methyl group is a relaxation of symmetry constraints compared to direct vibrational coupling.

Can You Be Hit by Your Partner and Be Intensely in Love?

PubMed

Graña, José Luis; Cuenca Montesino, María Luisa; Redondo, Natalia; O'Leary, K Daniel

2016-07-01

This study examines, in a multilevel context, the influence of intensity of love at an individual level on couples' mean reports of psychological and physical aggression in a sample of 2,988 adult couples of both sexes from the Region of Madrid. The percentages of intimate partner aggression considering the highest report of aggression in the couple were around 60% of psychological aggression and 15% of physical aggression. Multilevel models confirm that individuals who were less intensely in love reported a higher level of psychological aggression. Concerning physical aggression, men who declared they were less intensely in love reported a higher level of physical aggression by their partners, but this pattern was not found in the women. Therefore, psychological aggression plays a more relevant role in the intensity of love than physical aggression. © The Author(s) 2015.

State-level marriage equality and the health of same-sex couples.

PubMed

Kail, Ben Lennox; Acosta, Katie L; Wright, Eric R

2015-06-01

We assessed the association between the health of people in same-sex relationships and the degree and nature of the legal recognition of same-sex relationships offered in the states in which they resided. We conducted secondary data analyses on the 2010 to 2013 Current Population Survey and publicly available data from Freedom to Marry, Inc. We estimated ordered logistic regression models in a 4-level framework to assess the impact of states' legal stances toward same-sex marriage on self-assessed health. Our findings indicated, relative to states with antigay constitutional amendments, that same-sex couples living in states with legally sanctioned marriage reported higher levels of self-assessed health. Our findings suggested that full legal recognition of same-sex relationships through marriage might be an important legal and policy strategy for improving the health of same-sex couples.

A Pronoun Analysis of Couples' Support Transactions.

PubMed

Hinnekens, Céline; Lemmens, Gilbert; Vanhee, Gaëlle; Verhofstadt, Lesley

2016-01-01

The present study collected data about couples' level of relationship quality and their usage of pronouns that express we-ness or separateness in the context of support interactions. The sample consisted of 48 couples in a long-term relationship who provided questionnaire data and participated in two videotaped social support interaction tasks. Couples' videotaped interactions were subsequently coded for the number of personal pronouns-we-words (e.g., we, ours, ourselves) versus you and me-words (e.g., me, mine, you, yours)-used by both partners.

A coupled-cluster study of photodetachment cross sections of closed-shell anions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cukras, Janusz; Decleva, Piero; Coriani, Sonia

2014-11-01

We investigate the performance of Stieltjes Imaging applied to Lanczos pseudo-spectra generated at the coupled cluster singles and doubles, coupled cluster singles and approximate iterative doubles and coupled cluster singles levels of theory in modeling the photodetachment cross sections of the closed shell anions H-, Li-, Na-, F-, Cl-, and OH-. The accurate description of double excitations is found to play a much more important role than in the case of photoionization of neutral species.

A coupled-cluster study of photodetachment cross sections of closed-shell anions.

PubMed

Cukras, Janusz; Decleva, Piero; Coriani, Sonia

2014-11-07

We investigate the performance of Stieltjes Imaging applied to Lanczos pseudo-spectra generated at the coupled cluster singles and doubles, coupled cluster singles and approximate iterative doubles and coupled cluster singles levels of theory in modeling the photodetachment cross sections of the closed shell anions H(-), Li(-), Na(-), F(-), Cl(-), and OH(-). The accurate description of double excitations is found to play a much more important role than in the case of photoionization of neutral species.

Large dynamic range radiation detector and methods thereof

DOEpatents

Marrs, Roscoe E [Livermore, CA; Madden, Norman W [Sparks, NV

2012-02-14

According to one embodiment, a radiation detector comprises a scintillator and a photodiode optically coupled to the scintillator. The radiation detector also includes a bias voltage source electrically coupled to the photodiode, a first detector operatively electrically coupled to the photodiode for generating a signal indicative of a level of a charge at an output of the photodiode, and a second detector operatively electrically coupled to the bias voltage source for generating a signal indicative of an amount of current flowing through the photodiode.

Dynamics of testosterone concentration in male steppe lemmings (Lagurus lagurus) in the reproductive cycle reflects the species-specific mating system.

PubMed

Potapova, O F; Potapov, M A; Kondratyuk, E Yu; Evsikov, V I

2016-05-01

In the blood of male steppe lemmings, relatively low background levels of testosterone were detected, this is characteristic of a monogamous species. A significant increase in testosterone level, more expressed in sexually active males, was observed at the initial stage of formation of reproductive couples. Apparently, in the future, the couple will exist in a stable relationship, and, hence, the maintenance of a high testosterone level becomes excessive. The decrease in, and the relative "normalization" of, the hormone level during the existence of the pair, including raising of the young, promotes higher expression of the male paternal care of the offspring at the species level.

DRIFT COMPENSATED DIRECT COUPLED AMPLIFIER

DOEpatents

Windsor, A.A.

1959-05-01

An improved direct-coupled amplifier having zerolevel drift correction is described. The need for an auxiliary corrective-potential amplifier is eliminated thereby giving protection against overload saturation of the zero- level drift correcting circuit. (T.R.H.)

Brief Report: "I Can't Talk about It"--Sexuality and Self-Silencing as Interactive Predictors of Depressive Symptoms in Adolescent Dating Couples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Little, Katherine C.; Welsh, Deborah P.; Darling, Nancy; Holmes, Rachel M.

2011-01-01

This longitudinal study examined sexual intercourse within adolescent romantic relationships as a couple-level moderator of the association between adolescent individual characteristics and depressive symptoms. Two hundred nine middle- and older-adolescent dating couples (aged 14-17 and 17-21, respectively) reported on their own self-silencing,…

The Relationship of Moral Reasoning to Sex Guilt and Sex Experience in College Couples.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cross, Herbert; D'Augelli, Judith F.

Seventy-six college couples were interviewed with Kohlberg's moral dilemmas interview, given the Mosher Sex Guilt scale and took a sex experience inventory. Men, women, and couples who were at the law and order stage of moral reasoning were higher on sex guilt than those at other levels of morality. Male sex experience was associated with morality…

Dual-color single-mode lasing in axially coupled organic nanowire resonators

PubMed Central

Zhang, Chunhuan; Zou, Chang-Ling; Dong, Haiyun; Yan, Yongli; Yao, Jiannian; Zhao, Yong Sheng

2017-01-01

Miniaturized lasers with multicolor output and high spectral purity are of crucial importance for yielding more compact and more versatile photonic devices. However, multicolor lasers usually operate in multimode, which largely restricts their practical applications due to the lack of an effective mode selection mechanism that is simultaneously applicable to multiple wavebands. We propose a mutual mode selection strategy to realize dual-color single-mode lasing in axially coupled cavities constructed from two distinct organic self-assembled single-crystal nanowires. The unique mode selection mechanism in the heterogeneously coupled nanowires was elucidated experimentally and theoretically. With each individual nanowire functioning as both the laser source and the mode filter for the other nanowire, dual-color single-mode lasing was successfully achieved in the axially coupled heterogeneous nanowire resonators. Furthermore, the heterogeneously coupled resonators provided multiple nanoscale output ports for delivering coherent signals with different colors, which could greatly contribute to increasing the integration level of functional photonic devices. These results advance the fundamental understanding of the lasing modulation in coupled cavity systems and offer a promising route to building multifunctional nanoscale lasers for high-level practical photonic integrations. PMID:28785731

Perceived and Actual Behavior in Female Sexual Assertiveness: A Within-Couple Analysis in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Zhang, Huiping; Yip, Paul S F

2018-01-02

Studies in female sexual assertiveness have generally focused on individuals rather than couples, and little research has been conducted in the Chinese context. This study examined perceived and actual female sexual assertiveness at the couple level, and also explored its impact on marital and sexual satisfaction with a representative sample of 770 couples in Hong Kong. The results showed that husbands reported a higher level of acceptance of female sexual assertiveness in both perception and actual behavior; furthermore, couples reported greater congruence in their perception of female sexual initiation than actual behavior. Multiple logistic regressions showed that actual female sexual assertiveness, not the perception of it, affects both spouses' marital and sexual satisfaction. Compared with couples in which neither accepted female sexual initiation in practice, husbands where both spouses accepted this were more likely to be satisfied with the marriage. Husbands who accepted female sexual refusal whilst their wives did not were also more likely to be satisfied with both the marital and sexual relationship. Similarly, wives who did accept female sexual assertiveness but whose husbands did not were more likely to be satisfied with both the marital and sexual relationship.

Spouses’ Cortisol Associations and Moderators: Testing Physiological Synchrony and Connectedness in Everyday Life

PubMed Central

Papp, Lauren M.; Pendry, Patricia; Simon, Clarissa D.; Adam, Emma K.

2012-01-01

In this study, associations were examined between cortisol levels of wives and husbands in 47 heterosexual married couples. Both partners’ salivary cortisol levels were measured at the same moments seven times a day on 2 typical weekdays. After accounting for the effects of the diurnal rhythm of cortisol and relevant control variables, dyadic hierarchical linear modeling indicated significant positive linkages between partners’ cortisol levels, consistent with the hypothesized within-couple physiological synchrony. Variables reflecting more (spousal presence) or less connectedness (loneliness, being alone) were also collected at the time of each cortisol sample. Results indicated that husbands’ cortisol levels were higher at moments they reported feeling lonelier and lower at moments they were in the presence of their spouse. Wives’ cortisol levels were higher at moments they were alone. In addition, wife-husband cortisol synchrony was stronger for husbands who spent relatively more time with their spouse across the study period—even after accounting for time spent with others in general. These findings suggest that marital partners evidence positive within-couple cortisol associations, and that connectedness (particularly physical closeness) may underpin spouses’ physiological synchrony. PMID:23763687

A predictive biophysical model of translational coupling to coordinate and control protein expression in bacterial operons

PubMed Central

Tian, Tian; Salis, Howard M.

2015-01-01

Natural and engineered genetic systems require the coordinated expression of proteins. In bacteria, translational coupling provides a genetically encoded mechanism to control expression level ratios within multi-cistronic operons. We have developed a sequence-to-function biophysical model of translational coupling to predict expression level ratios in natural operons and to design synthetic operons with desired expression level ratios. To quantitatively measure ribosome re-initiation rates, we designed and characterized 22 bi-cistronic operon variants with systematically modified intergenic distances and upstream translation rates. We then derived a thermodynamic free energy model to calculate de novo initiation rates as a result of ribosome-assisted unfolding of intergenic RNA structures. The complete biophysical model has only five free parameters, but was able to accurately predict downstream translation rates for 120 synthetic bi-cistronic and tri-cistronic operons with rationally designed intergenic regions and systematically increased upstream translation rates. The biophysical model also accurately predicted the translation rates of the nine protein atp operon, compared to ribosome profiling measurements. Altogether, the biophysical model quantitatively predicts how translational coupling controls protein expression levels in synthetic and natural bacterial operons, providing a deeper understanding of an important post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism and offering the ability to rationally engineer operons with desired behaviors. PMID:26117546

Coupled superconducting qudit-resonator system: Energy spectrum, state population, and state transition under microwave drive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, W. Y.; Xu, H. K.; Su, F. F.; Li, Z. Y.; Tian, Ye; Han, Siyuan; Zhao, S. P.

2018-03-01

Superconducting quantum multilevel systems coupled to resonators have recently been considered in some applications such as microwave lasing and high-fidelity quantum logical gates. In this work, using an rf-SQUID type phase qudit coupled to a microwave coplanar waveguide resonator, we study both theoretically and experimentally the energy spectrum of the system when the qudit level spacings are varied around the resonator frequency by changing the magnetic flux applied to the qudit loop. We show that the experimental result can be well described by a theoretical model that extends from the usual two-level Jaynes-Cummings system to the present four-level system. It is also shown that due to the small anharmonicity of the phase device a simplified model capturing the leading state interactions fits the experimental spectra very well. Furthermore we use the Lindblad master equation containing various relaxation and dephasing processes to calculate the level populations in the simpler qutrit-resonator system, which allows a clear understanding of the dynamics of the system under the microwave drive. Our results help to better understand and perform the experiments of coupled multilevel and resonator systems and can be applied in the case of transmon or Xmon qudits having similar anharmonicity to the present phase device.

The interplay between interpersonal dynamics, treatment barriers, and larger social forces: an exploratory study of drug-using couples in Hartford, CT

PubMed Central

Simmons, Janie

2006-01-01

Background The drug treatment field tends to place emphasis on the individual rather than the individual in social context. While there are a growing number of studies indicating that drug-using intimate partners are likely to play an important role in determining treatment options, little attention has been given to the experience and complex treatment needs of illicit drug-using (heroin, cocaine, crack) couples. Methods This exploratory study used in-depth interviews and ethnographic engagement to better understand the relationship between interpersonal dynamics and the treatment experience of ten relatively stable drug-using couples in Hartford, CT. Semi-structured and open-ended qualitative interviews were conducted with each couple and separately with each partner. Whenever possible, the day-to-day realities and contexts of risk were also observed via participant and non-participant observation of these couples in the community. A grounded theory approach was used to inductively code and analyze nearly 40 transcripts of 60–90 minute interviews as well as fieldnotes. Results This study builds on a concept of complex interpersonal dynamics among drug users. Interpersonal dynamics of care and collusion were identified: couples cared for each other and colluded to acquire and use drugs. Care and collusion operate at the micro level of the risk environment. Treatment barriers and inadequacies were identified as part of the risk environment at the meso or intermediate level of analysis, and larger social forces such as gender dynamics, poverty and the "War on Drugs" were identified at the macro level. Interpersonal dynamics posed problems for couples when one or both partners were interested in accessing treatment. Structural barriers presented additional obstacles with the denial of admittance of both partners to treatment programs which had a sole focus on the individual and avoided treating couples. Conclusion Detoxification and treatment facilities need to recognize the complex interplay between interpersonal dynamics which shape the treatment experience of couples, and which are also shaped by larger structural dynamics, including barriers in the treatment system. Improvements to the treatment system in general will go a long way in improving treatment for couples. Couples-specific programming also needs to be developed. PMID:16722545

Coupling the Gaussian Free Fields with Free and with Zero Boundary Conditions via Common Level Lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, Wei; Werner, Wendelin

2018-06-01

We point out a new simple way to couple the Gaussian Free Field (GFF) with free boundary conditions in a two-dimensional domain with the GFF with zero boundary conditions in the same domain: Starting from the latter, one just has to sample at random all the signs of the height gaps on its boundary-touching zero-level lines (these signs are alternating for the zero-boundary GFF) in order to obtain a free boundary GFF. Constructions and couplings of the free boundary GFF and its level lines via soups of reflected Brownian loops and their clusters are also discussed. Such considerations show for instance that in a domain with an axis of symmetry, if one looks at the overlay of a single usual Conformal Loop Ensemble CLE3 with its own symmetric image, one obtains the CLE4-type collection of level lines of a GFF with mixed zero/free boundary conditions in the half-domain.

Continuous liquid level detection based on two parallel plastic optical fibers in a helical structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yingzi; Hou, Yulong; Zhang, Yanjun; Hu, Yanjun; Zhang, Liang; Gao, Xiaolong; Zhang, Huixin; Liu, Wenyi

2018-02-01

A simple and low-cost continuous liquid-level sensor based on two parallel plastic optical fibers (POFs) in a helical structure is presented. The change in the liquid level is determined by measuring the side-coupling power in the passive fiber. The side-coupling ratio is increased by just filling the gap between the two POFs with ultraviolet-curable optical cement, making the proposed sensor competitive. The experimental results show that the side-coupling power declines as the liquid level rises. The sensitivity and the measurement range are flexible and affected by the geometric parameters of the helical structure. A higher sensitivity of 0.0208 μW/mm is acquired for a smaller curvature radius of 5 mm, and the measurement range can be expanded to 120 mm by enlarging the screw pitch to 40 mm. In addition, the reversibility and temperature dependence are studied. The proposed sensor is a cost-effective solution offering the advantages of a simple fabrication process, good reversibility, and compensable temperature dependence.

Plasma cytokine levels and risk of HIV type 1 (HIV-1) transmission and acquisition: a nested case-control study among HIV-1-serodiscordant couples.

PubMed

Kahle, Erin M; Bolton, Michael; Hughes, James P; Donnell, Deborah; Celum, Connie; Lingappa, Jairam R; Ronald, Allan; Cohen, Craig R; de Bruyn, Guy; Fong, Youyi; Katabira, Elly; McElrath, M Juliana; Baeten, Jared M

2015-05-01

A heightened proinflammatory state has been hypothesized to enhance human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) transmission - both susceptibility of HIV-1-exposed persons and infectiousness of HIV-1-infected persons. Using prospective data from heterosexual African couples with HIV-1 serodiscordance, we conducted a nested case-control analysis to assess the relationship between cytokine concentrations and the risk of HIV-1 acquisition. Case couples (n = 120) were initially serodiscordant couples in which HIV-1 was transmitted to the seronegative partner during the study; control couples (n = 321) were serodiscordant couples in which HIV-1 was not transmitted to the seronegative partner. Differences in a panel of 30 cytokines were measured using plasma specimens from both HIV-1-susceptible and HIV-1-infected partners. Plasma was collected before seroconversion for cases. For both HIV-1-infected and HIV-1-susceptible partners, cases and controls had significantly different mean responses in cytokine panels (P < .001, by the Hotelling T(2) test), suggesting a broadly different pattern of immune activation for couples in which HIV-1 was transmitted, compared with couples without transmission. Individually, log10 mean concentrations of interleukin 10 (IL-10) and CXCL10 were significantly higher for both HIV-1-susceptible and HIV-1-infected case partners, compared with HIV-1-susceptible and HIV-1-infected control partners (P < .01 for all comparisons). In multivariate analysis, HIV-1 transmission was significantly associated with elevated CXCL10 concentrations in HIV-1-susceptible partners (P = .001) and with elevated IL-10 concentrations in HIV-1-infected partners (P = .02). Immune activation, as measured by levels of cytokine markers, particularly elevated levels of IL-10 and CXCL1, are associated with increased HIV-1 susceptibility and infectiousness. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Interacting parametrized post-Friedmann method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richarte, Martín G.; Xu, Lixin

2016-04-01

We apply the interacting parametrized post-Friedmann (IPPF) method to coupled dark energy models where the interaction is proportional to dark matter density at background level. In the first case, the dark components are treated as fluids and the growth of dark matter perturbations only feel the interaction via the modification of background quantities provided dark matter follows geodesic. We also perform a Markov Chain Monte-Carlo analysis which combines several cosmological probes including the cosmic microwave background (WMAP9+Planck) data, baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) measurements, JLA sample of supernovae, Hubble constant (HST), and redshift-space distortion (RSD) measurements through the fσ 8(z) data points. The joint observational analysis of Planck+WP+JLA+BAO+HST+ RSD data leads to a coupling parameter, ξ c=0.00140_{-0.00080}^{+0.00079} at 1σ level for vanishing momentum transfer potential. On the other hand, we deal with a coupled quintessence model which exhibits a violation of the equivalence principle coming form a coupling term in the modified Euler equation; as a result of that the local Hubble expansion rate and the effective gravitational coupling are both enhanced. Provided that the interaction is parallel to scalar field velocity the momentum transfer potential is switched on, leading to a lower interaction coupling ξ c=0.00136_{-0.00073}^{+0.00080} at 1σ level when Planck+WP+JLA+BAO+HST+RSD data are combined. Besides, the CMB power spectrum shows up a correlation between the coupling parameter ξ c and the position of acoustic peaks or their amplitudes. The first peak's height increases when ξ c takes larger values and its position is shifted. We also obtain the matter power spectrum may be affected by the strength of interaction coupling over scales bigger than 10^{-2} h Mpc^{-1}, reducing its amplitude in relation to the vanilla model.

Zeno effect in spontaneous decay induced by coupling to an unstable level

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luis, Alfredo

2001-09-01

A metastable atomic level can be rendered unstable in a controllable way by coupling it to a decaying state. In this work we carry out a full dynamical analysis of the Zeno effect in this kind of unstable systems, comparing it to the inhibition of purely coherent Rabi oscillations. Simple and experimentally feasible measuring strategies involving three atomic levels are considered. It is shown that this induced decay is actually an example of a partial Zeno effect so that the observed evolution results from the competition of two Zeno effects. We also show that a three-level scheme can display both coherent, incoherent, and anti-Zeno effects.

Liquid level sensor based on an excessively tilted fibre grating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mou, Chengbo; Zhou, Kaiming; Yan, Zhijun; Fu, Hongyan; Zhang, Lin

2013-09-01

We propose and demonstrate an optical liquid level sensor based on the surrounding medium refractive index (SRI) sensing using an excessively tilted fibre grating (ETFG). When the ETFG submerged in water, two sets of cladding modes are coupled, corresponding to air- and water-surrounded grating structures, respectively. The coupling strengths of the two sets of cladding modes evolve with the submerging length of the grating, providing a mechanism to measure the liquid level. Comparing with long-period fibre grating based liquid level sensor, the ETFG sensor has a much higher SRI responsivity for liquids with refractive index around 1.33 and a lower thermal cross sensitivity.

Spin-orbit-coupled Bose-Einstein condensates of rotating polar molecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Y.; You, L.; Yi, S.

2018-05-01

An experimental proposal for realizing spin-orbit (SO) coupling of pseudospin 1 in the ground manifold 1Σ (υ =0 ) of (bosonic) bialkali polar molecules is presented. The three spin components are composed of the ground rotational state and two substates from the first excited rotational level. Using hyperfine resolved Raman processes through two select excited states resonantly coupled by a microwave, an effective coupling between the spin tensor and linear momentum is realized. The properties of Bose-Einstein condensates for such SO-coupled molecules exhibiting dipolar interactions are further explored. In addition to the SO-coupling-induced stripe structures, the singly and doubly quantized vortex phases are found to appear, implicating exciting opportunities for exploring novel quantum physics using SO-coupled rotating polar molecules with dipolar interactions.

Daily Couple Experiences and Parent Affect in Families of Children with versus without Autism

PubMed Central

Hartley, Sigan L.; DaWalt, Leann Smith; Schultz, Haley M.

2017-01-01

We examined daily couple experiences in 174 couples who had a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) relative to 179 couples who had a child without disabilities and their same-day association with parent affect. Parents completed a 14-day daily diary in which they reported time with partner, partner support, partner closeness, and positive and negative couple interactions and level of positive and negative affect. One-way multivariate analyses of covariance and dyadic multilevel models were conducted. Parents of children with ASD reported less time with partner, lower partner closeness, and fewer positive couple interactions than the comparison group. Daily couple experiences were more strongly associated with parent affect in the ASD than comparison group. Findings have implications for programs and supports. PMID:28275928

Daily Couple Experiences and Parent Affect in Families of Children with Versus Without Autism.

PubMed

Hartley, Sigan L; DaWalt, Leann Smith; Schultz, Haley M

2017-06-01

We examined daily couple experiences in 174 couples who had a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) relative to 179 couples who had a child without disabilities and their same-day association with parent affect. Parents completed a 14-day daily diary in which they reported time with partner, partner support, partner closeness, and positive and negative couple interactions and level of positive and negative affect. One-way multivariate analyses of covariance and dyadic multilevel models were conducted. Parents of children with ASD reported less time with partner, lower partner closeness, and fewer positive couple interactions than the comparison group. Daily couple experiences were more strongly associated with parent affect in the ASD than comparison group. Findings have implications for programs and supports.

Calcium phosphate coupled Newcastle disease vaccine elicits humoral and cell mediated immune responses in chickens.

PubMed

Koppad, Sanganagouda; Raj, G Dhinakar; Gopinath, V P; Kirubaharan, J John; Thangavelu, A; Thiagarajan, V

2011-12-01

Calcium phosphate (CaP) particles were coupled with inactivated Newcastle disease virus (NDV) vaccine. The surface morphology of CaP particles coupled to NDV was found to be spherical, smooth and with a tendency to agglomerate. The mean (± SE) size of CaP particles was found 557.44 ± 18.62 nm. The mean percent encapsulation efficiency of CaP particles coupled to NDV assessed based on total protein content and haemagglutination (HA) activity in eluate was found to be 10.72 ± 0.89 and 12.50 ± 2.09, respectively. The humoral and cell mediated immune responses induced by CaP coupled NDV vaccine were assessed in comparison to a commercial live vaccine (RDV 'F'). CaP coupled NDV vaccine elicited prolonged haemagglutination inhibition (HI) and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) titres in the serum even at fourth and fifth week post-vaccination (PV), unlike RDV 'F' inoculated chickens whose titres declined to insignificant levels by this time. CaP coupled NDV vaccine could stimulate HI antibodies in tracheal washings and tears from second and first week PV, respectively. IgA ELISA antibodies were also seen in tracheal washings of these birds from third week PV and in tears from second week PV. CaP coupled NDV vaccine elicited cell mediated immune responses (CMI) from two to four weeks PV. The stimulation indices obtained after stimulation with specific antigen was not significantly different between CaP coupled antigen and live NDV virus except on first week PV. However, CaP coupled antigen did not cause suppression of lympo proliferation as indicated by statistically similar responses to mitogen, concanavalin A between the two groups. Overall, CaP coupled NDV vaccine elicited stronger and prolonged immune responses in comparison to the commercial live vaccine. No increase in the serum calcium and phosphorous levels were seen in CaP coupled NDV vaccine inoculated chickens. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Coupled Harmonic Oscillator: Not Just for Seniors Anymore.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Preyer, Norris W.

1996-01-01

Presents experiments that use Microcomputer Based Laboratory (MBL) techniques to enable freshmen physics students to investigate complex systems, such as nonlinear oscillators or coupled harmonic oscillators, at a level appropriate for an independent project. (JRH)

Finding structure in the dark: Coupled dark energy, weak lensing, and the mildly nonlinear regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miranda, Vinicius; González, Mariana Carrillo; Krause, Elisabeth; Trodden, Mark

2018-03-01

We reexamine interactions between the dark sectors of cosmology, with a focus on robust constraints that can be obtained using only mildly nonlinear scales. While it is well known that couplings between dark matter and dark energy can be constrained to the percent level when including the full range of scales probed by future optical surveys, calibrating matter power spectrum emulators to all possible choices of potentials and couplings requires many computationally expensive n-body simulations. Here we show that lensing and clustering of galaxies in combination with the cosmic microwave background (CMB) are capable of probing the dark sector coupling to the few percent level for a given class of models, using only linear and quasilinear Fourier modes. These scales can, in principle, be described by semianalytical techniques such as the effective field theory of large-scale structure.

Power inverter implementing phase skipping control

DOEpatents

Somani, Utsav; Amirahmadi, Ahmadreza; Jourdan, Charles; Batarseh, Issa

2016-10-18

A power inverter includes a DC/AC inverter having first, second and third phase circuitry coupled to receive power from a power source. A controller is coupled to a driver for each of the first, second and third phase circuitry (control input drivers). The controller includes an associated memory storing a phase skipping control algorithm, wherein the controller is coupled to receive updating information including a power level generated by the power source. The drivers are coupled to control inputs of the first, second and third phase circuitry, where the drivers are configured for receiving phase skipping control signals from the controller and outputting mode selection signals configured to dynamically select an operating mode for the DC/AC inverter from a Normal Control operation and a Phase Skipping Control operation which have different power injection patterns through the first, second and third phase circuitry depending upon the power level.

Postinflationary vacuum instability and Higgs-inflaton couplings

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Enqvist, Kari; Karčiauskas, Mindaugas; Lebedev, Oleg

2016-11-11

The Higgs-inflaton coupling plays an important role in the Higgs field dynamics in the early Universe. Even a tiny coupling generated at loop level can have a dramatic effect on the fate of the electroweak vacuum. Such Higgs-inflaton interaction is present both at the trilinear and quartic levels in realistic reheating models. In this work, we examine the Higgs dynamics during the preheating epoch, focusing on the effects of the parametric and tachyonic resonances. We use lattice simulations and other numerical tools in our studies. We find that the resonances can induce large fluctuations of the Higgs field which destabilizemore » the electroweak vacuum. Our considerations thus provide an upper bound on quartic and trilinear interactions between the Higgs and the inflaton. We conclude that there exists a favorable range of the couplings within which the Higgs field is stabilized during both inflation and preheating epochs.« less

Coupling between plate vibration and acoustic radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frendi, Abdelkader; Maestrello, Lucio; Bayliss, Alvin

1992-01-01

A detailed numerical investigation of the coupling between the vibration of a flexible plate and the acoustic radiation is performed. The nonlinear Euler equations are used to describe the acoustic fluid while the nonlinear plate equation is used to describe the plate vibration. Linear, nonlinear, and quasi-periodic or chaotic vibrations and the resultant acoustic radiation are analyzed. We find that for the linear plate response, acoustic coupling is negligible. However, for the nonlinear and chaotic responses, acoustic coupling has a significant effect on the vibration level as the loading increases. The radiated pressure from a plate undergoing nonlinear or chaotic vibrations is found to propagate nonlinearly into the far-field. However, the nonlinearity due to wave propagation is much weaker than that due to the plate vibrations. As the acoustic wave propagates into the far-field, the relative difference in level between the fundamental and its harmonics and subharmonics decreases with distance.

Periodically modulated dark states

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Yingying; Zhang, Jun; Zhang, Wenxian

2018-04-01

Phenomena of electromagnetically induced transparency (PEIT) may be interpreted by the Autler-Townes Splitting (ATS), where the coupled states are split by the coupling laser field, or by the quantum destructive interference (QDI), where the atomic phases caused by the coupling laser and the probe laser field cancel. We propose modulated experiments to explore the PEIT in an alternative way by periodically modulating the coupling and the probe fields in a Λ-type three-level system initially in a dark state. Our analytical and numerical results rule out the ATS interpretation and show that the QDI interpretation is more appropriate for the modulated experiments. Interestingly, dark state persists in the double-modulation situation where control and probe fields never occur simultaneously, which is significant difference from the traditional dark state condition. The proposed experiments are readily implemented in atomic gases, artificial atoms in superconducting quantum devices, or three-level meta-atoms in meta-materials.

Cortisol Covariation Within Parents of Young Children: Moderation by Relationship Aggression

PubMed Central

Saxbe, Darby E.; Adam, Emma K.; Dunkel Schetter, Christine; Guardino, Christine M.; Simon, Clarissa; McKinney, Chelsea O.; Shalowitz, Madeleine U.; Shriver, Eunice Kennedy

2015-01-01

Covariation in diurnal cortisol has been observed in several studies of cohabiting couples. In two such studies (Liu et al, 2013, Saxbe & Repetti, 2010), relationship distress was associated with stronger within-couple correlations, suggesting that couples’ physiological linkage with each other may indicate problematic dyadic functioning. Although intimate partner aggression has been associated with dysregulation in women’s diurnal cortisol, it has not yet been tested as a moderator of within-couple covariation. This study reports on a diverse sample of 122 parents who sampled salivary cortisol on matched days for two years following the birth of an infant. Partners showed strong positive cortisol covariation. In couples with higher levels of partner-perpetrated aggression reported by women at one year postpartum, both women and men had a flatter diurnal decrease in cortisol and stronger correlations with partners’ cortisol sampled at the same timepoints. In other words, relationship aggression was linked both with indices of suboptimal cortisol rhythms in both members of the couples and with stronger within-couple covariation coefficients. These results persisted when relationship satisfaction and demographic covariates were included in the model. During some of the sampling days, some women were pregnant with a subsequent child, but pregnancy did not significantly moderate cortisol levels or within-couple covariation. The findings suggest that couples experiencing relationship aggression have both suboptimal neuroendocrine profiles and stronger covariation. Cortisol covariation is an understudied phenomenon with potential implications for couples’ relationship functioning and physical health. PMID:26298691

Research on Coupling Method of Watershed Initial Water Rights Allocation in Daling River

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, J.; Fengping, W.

2016-12-01

Water scarcity is now a common occurrence in many countries. The situation of watershed initial water rights allocation has caused many benefit conflicts among regions and regional water sectors of domestic and ecology environment and industries in China. This study aims to investigate the method of watershed initial water rights allocation in the perspective of coupling in Daling River Watershed taking provincial initial water rights and watershed-level governmental reserved water as objects. First of all, regarding the allocation subsystem of initial water rights among provinces, this research calculates initial water rights of different provinces by establishing the coupling model of water quantity and quality on the principle of "rewarding efficiency and penalizing inefficiency" based on the two control objectives of water quantity and quality. Secondly, regarding the allocation subsystem of watershed-level governmental reserved water rights, the study forecasts the demand of watershed-level governmental reserved water rights by the combination of case-based reasoning and water supply quotas. Then, the bilaterally coupled allocation model on water supply and demand is designed after supply analysis to get watershed-level governmental reserved water rights. The results of research method applied to Daling River Watershed reveal the recommended scheme of watershed initial water rights allocation based on coordinated degree criterion. It's found that the feasibility of the iteration coupling model and put forward related policies and suggestions. This study owns the advantages of complying with watershed initial water rights allocation mechanism and meeting the control requirements of water quantity, water quality and water utilization efficiency, which help to achieve the effective allocation of water resources.

Constraints on tree-level higher order gravitational couplings in superstring theory.

PubMed

Stieberger, Stephan

2011-03-18

We consider the scattering amplitudes of five and six gravitons at tree level in superstring theory. Their power series expansions in the Regge slope α' are analyzed through the order α'(8) showing some interesting constraints on higher order gravitational couplings in the effective superstring action such as the absence of R(5) terms. Furthermore, some transcendentality constraints on the coefficients of the nonvanishing couplings are observed: the absence of zeta values of even weight through the order α'(8) like the absence of ζ(2)ζ(3)R(6) terms. Our analysis is valid for any superstring background in any space-time dimension, which allows for a conformal field theory description.

Collider detection of dark matter electromagnetic anapole moments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alves, Alexandre; Santos, A. C. O.; Sinha, Kuver

2018-03-01

Dark matter that interacts with the Standard Model by exchanging photons through higher multipole interactions occurs in a wide range of both strongly and weakly coupled hidden sector models. We study the collider detection prospects of these candidates, with a focus on Majorana dark matter that couples through the anapole moment. The study is conducted at the effective field theory level with the mono-Z signature incorporating varying levels of systematic uncertainties at the high-luminosity LHC. The projected collider reach on the anapole moment is then compared to the reach coming from direct detection experiments like LZ. Finally, the analysis is applied to a weakly coupled completion with leptophilic dark matter.

On the Magnitude of the Nonadiabatic Error for Highly Coupled Radicals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stanton, J. F.

2009-06-01

A review is given of recent advances in the construction of (quasi)diabatic model Hamiltonians and their application to analyzing the spectroscopy of molecules with strong vibronic coupling. A numerical application to the vibronic levels of the BNB radical below 0.6 eV is presented, together with corresponding adiabatic (quantum chemistry) calculations. The agreement with the experimental levels is nearly quantitative with the model Hamiltonian, attesting to the power of the approach. On the contrary, it is also revealed that the magnitude of the nonadiabatic contributions to the zero-point energy and the lowest fundamental frequency of the coupling mode are considerably larger than expected, at least by your narrator.

Source-Coupled, N-Channel, JFET-Based Digital Logic Gate Structure Using Resistive Level Shifters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krasowski, Michael J.

2011-01-01

A circuit topography is used to create usable, digital logic gates using N (negatively doped) channel junction field effect transistors (JFETs), load resistors, level shifting resistors, and supply rails whose values are based on the DC parametric distributions of these JFETs. This method has direct application to the current state-of-the-art in high-temperature (300 to 500 C and higher) silicon carbide (SiC) device production, and defines an adaptation to the logic gate described in U.S. Patent 7,688,117 in that, by removing the level shifter from the output of the gate structure described in the patent (and applying it to the input of the same gate), a source-coupled gate topography is created. This structure allows for the construction AND/OR (sum of products) arrays that use far fewer transistors and resistors than the same array as constructed from the gates described in the aforementioned patent. This plays a central role when large multiplexer constructs are necessary; for example, as in the construction of memory. This innovation moves the resistive level shifter from the output of the basic gate structure to the front as if the input is now configured as what would be the output of the preceding gate, wherein the output is the two level shifting resistors. The output of this innovation can now be realized as the lone follower transistor with its source node as the gate output. Additionally, one may leave intact the resistive level shifter on the new gate topography. A source-coupled to direct-coupled logic translator will be the result.

Self-Sustained Ultrafast Pulsation in Coupled VCSELs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ning, Cun-Zheng

2001-01-01

High frequency, narrow-band self-pulsating operation is demonstrated in two coupled vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). The coupled VCSELs provide an ideal source for high-repetition rate (over 40 GHz), sinusoidal-like modulated laser source with Gaussian-like near- and far-field profiles. We also show that the frequency of the modulation can be tuned by the inter-VCSEL separation or by DC-bias level.

Evidence for functional pre-coupled complexes of receptor heteromers and adenylyl cyclase.

PubMed

Navarro, Gemma; Cordomí, Arnau; Casadó-Anguera, Verónica; Moreno, Estefanía; Cai, Ning-Sheng; Cortés, Antoni; Canela, Enric I; Dessauer, Carmen W; Casadó, Vicent; Pardo, Leonardo; Lluís, Carme; Ferré, Sergi

2018-03-28

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), G proteins and adenylyl cyclase (AC) comprise one of the most studied transmembrane cell signaling pathways. However, it is unknown whether the ligand-dependent interactions between these signaling molecules are based on random collisions or the rearrangement of pre-coupled elements in a macromolecular complex. Furthermore, it remains controversial whether a GPCR homodimer coupled to a single heterotrimeric G protein constitutes a common functional unit. Using a peptide-based approach, we here report evidence for the existence of functional pre-coupled complexes of heteromers of adenosine A 2A receptor and dopamine D 2 receptor homodimers coupled to their cognate Gs and Gi proteins and to subtype 5 AC. We also demonstrate that this macromolecular complex provides the necessary frame for the canonical Gs-Gi interactions at the AC level, sustaining the ability of a Gi-coupled GPCR to counteract AC activation mediated by a Gs-coupled GPCR.

The establishment and application of direct coupled electrostatic-structural field model in electrostatically controlled deployable membrane antenna

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gu, Yongzhen; Duan, Baoyan; Du, Jingli

2018-05-01

The electrostatically controlled deployable membrane antenna (ECDMA) is a promising space structure due to its low weight, large aperture and high precision characteristics. However, it is an extreme challenge to describe the coupled field between electrostatic and membrane structure accurately. A direct coupled method is applied to solve the coupled problem in this paper. Firstly, the membrane structure and electrostatic field are uniformly described by energy, considering the coupled problem is an energy conservation phenomenon. Then the direct coupled electrostatic-structural field governing equilibrium equations are obtained by energy variation approach. Numerical results show that the direct coupled method improves the computing efficiency by 36% compared with the traditional indirect coupled method with the same level accuracy. Finally, the prototype has been manufactured and tested and the ECDMA finite element simulations show good agreement with the experiment results as the maximum surface error difference is 6%.

The closer 'We' are, the stronger 'I' am: the impact of couple identity on cancer coping self-efficacy.

PubMed

Ahmad, Saunia; Fergus, Karen; Shatokhina, Kristina; Gardner, Sandra

2017-06-01

The present study tested the supposition that greater levels of couple identity (or we-ness) increase a woman's coping self-efficacy in relation to breast cancer, which, in turn, predicts better psychosocial adjustment. Women (N = 112) in committed relationships completed surveys assessing their levels of couple identity, cancer coping self-efficacy, and aspects of their psychosocial adjustment (specifically, depression, anxiety and functional well-being) during one of their outpatient visits to the cancer centre. As predicted, the more women identified with their relationships, the lower their levels of depression and anxiety were and the greater their functional well-being was. This relationship was mediated by coping self-efficacy: greater identification with one's relationship predicted greater confidence in one's ability to cope, which, in turn, predicted better adjustment. The role intimate relationships play in women's adjustment to breast cancer, as well as directions for further research, are discussed.

Membrane Cholesterol in Skeletal Muscle: A Novel Player in Excitation-Contraction Coupling and Insulin Resistance

PubMed Central

Barrientos, G.; Sánchez-Aguilera, P.; Jaimovich, E.; Hidalgo, C.

2017-01-01

Membrane cholesterol is critical for signaling processes in a variety of tissues. We will address here current evidence supporting an emerging role of cholesterol on excitation-contraction coupling and glucose transport in skeletal muscle. We have centered our review on the transverse tubule system, a complex network of narrow plasma membrane invaginations that propagate membrane depolarization into the fiber interior and allow nutrient delivery into the fibers. We will discuss current evidence showing that transverse tubule membranes have remarkably high cholesterol levels and we will address how modifications of cholesterol content influence excitation-contraction coupling. In addition, we will discuss how membrane cholesterol levels affect glucose transport by modulating the insertion into the membrane of the main insulin-sensitive glucose transporter GLUT4. Finally, we will address how the increased membrane cholesterol levels displayed by obese animals, which also present insulin resistance, affect these two particular skeletal muscle functions. PMID:28367451

Time-dependent interaction between a two-level atom and a su(1,1) Lie algebra quantum system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdalla, M. Sebaweh; Khalil, E. M.; Obada, A.-S. F.

2017-06-01

The problem of the interaction between a two-level atom and a two-mode field in the parametric amplifier-type is considered. A similar problem appears in an ion trapped in a two-dimensional trap. The problem is transformed into an interaction governed by su(1,1) Lie algebraic operators with phase and coupling parameter depending on time. Under an integrability condition, that relates phase and coupling, a solution to the wavefunction is obtained using the Schrödinger equation. The effects of the functional dependence of the coupling and the initial state of the two-level atom on atomic inversion, the degree of entanglement, the fidelity and the Glauber second-order correlation function are investigated. It is shown that the acceleration term plays an important role in controlling the function behavior of the considered quantities.

State-Level Marriage Equality and the Health of Same-Sex Couples

PubMed Central

Acosta, Katie L.; Wright, Eric R.

2015-01-01

Objectives. We assessed the association between the health of people in same-sex relationships and the degree and nature of the legal recognition of same-sex relationships offered in the states in which they resided. Methods. We conducted secondary data analyses on the 2010 to 2013 Current Population Survey and publicly available data from Freedom to Marry, Inc. We estimated ordered logistic regression models in a 4-level framework to assess the impact of states’ legal stances toward same-sex marriage on self-assessed health. Results. Our findings indicated, relative to states with antigay constitutional amendments, that same-sex couples living in states with legally sanctioned marriage reported higher levels of self-assessed health. Conclusions. Our findings suggested that full legal recognition of same-sex relationships through marriage might be an important legal and policy strategy for improving the health of same-sex couples. PMID:25880959

Toroid Joining Gun For Fittings And Couplings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fox, Robert L.; Swaim, Robert J.; Johnson, Samuel D.; Buckley, John D.; Copeland, Carl E.; Coultrip, Robert H.; Johnston, David F.; Phillips, William M.

1992-01-01

Hand-held gun used to join metal heat-to-shrink couplings. Uses magnetic induction (eddy currents) to produce heat in metal coupling, and thermocouple to measure temperature and signals end of process. Gun, called "toroid joining gun" concentrates high levels of heat in localized areas. Reconfigured for use on metal heat-to-shrink fitting and coupling applications. Provides rapid heating, operates on low power, lightweight and portable. Safe for use around aircraft fuel and has no detrimental effects on surrounding surfaces or objects. Reliable in any environment and under all weather conditions. Gun logical device for taking full advantage of capabilities of new metal heat-to-shrink couplings and fittings.

Attraction and repulsion of spiral waves by inhomogeneity of conduction anisotropy--a model of spiral wave interaction with electrical remodeling of heart tissue.

PubMed

Kuklik, Pawel; Sanders, Prashanthan; Szumowski, Lukasz; Żebrowski, Jan J

2013-01-01

Various forms of heart disease are associated with remodeling of the heart muscle, which results in a perturbation of cell-to-cell electrical coupling. These perturbations may alter the trajectory of spiral wave drift in the heart muscle. We investigate the effect of spatially extended inhomogeneity of transverse cell coupling on the spiral wave trajectory using a simple active media model. The spiral wave was either attracted or repelled from the center of inhomogeneity as a function of cell excitability and gradient of the cell coupling. High levels of excitability resulted in an attraction of the wave to the center of inhomogeneity, whereas low levels resulted in an escape and termination of the spiral wave. The spiral wave drift velocity was related to the gradient of the coupling and the initial position of the wave. In a diseased heart, a region of altered transverse coupling corresponds with local gap junction remodeling that may be responsible for stabilization-destabilization of spiral waves and hence reflect potentially important targets in the treatment of heart arrhythmias.

A numerical study of wave-current interaction through surface and bottom stresses: Coastal ocean response to Hurricane Fran of 1996

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, L.; Pietrafesa, L. J.; Wu, K.

2003-02-01

A three-dimensional wave-current coupled modeling system is used to examine the influence of waves on coastal currents and sea level. This coupled modeling system consists of the wave model-WAM (Cycle 4) and the Princeton Ocean Model (POM). The results from this study show that it is important to incorporate surface wave effects into coastal storm surge and circulation models. Specifically, we find that (1) storm surge models without coupled surface waves generally under estimate not only the peak surge but also the coastal water level drop which can also cause substantial impact on the coastal environment, (2) introducing wave-induced surface stress effect into storm surge models can significantly improve storm surge prediction, (3) incorporating wave-induced bottom stress into the coupled wave-current model further improves storm surge prediction, and (4) calibration of the wave module according to minimum error in significant wave height does not necessarily result in an optimum wave module in a wave-current coupled system for current and storm surge prediction.

Polaron effects on the performance of light-harvesting systems: a quantum heat engine perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Dazhi; Wang, Chen; Zhao, Yang; Cao, Jianshu

2016-02-01

We explore energy transfer in a generic three-level system, which is coupled to three non-equilibrium baths. Built on the concept of quantum heat engine, our three-level model describes non-equilibrium quantum processes including light-harvesting energy transfer, nano-scale heat transfer, photo-induced isomerization, and photovoltaics in double quantum-dots. In the context of light-harvesting, the excitation energy is first pumped up by sunlight, then is transferred via two excited states which are coupled to a phonon bath, and finally decays to the reaction center. The efficiency of this process is evaluated by steady state analysis via a polaron-transformed master equation; thus the entire range of the system-phonon coupling strength can be covered. We show that the coupling with the phonon bath not only modifies the steady state, resulting in population inversion, but also introduces a finite steady state coherence which optimizes the energy transfer flux and efficiency. In the strong coupling limit, the steady state coherence disappears and the efficiency recovers the heat engine limit given by Scovil and Schultz-Dubois (1959 Phys. Rev. Lett. 2 262).

Coupled Evolution of Transcription and mRNA Degradation

PubMed Central

Dori-Bachash, Mally; Shema, Efrat; Tirosh, Itay

2011-01-01

mRNA levels are determined by the balance between transcription and mRNA degradation, and while transcription has been extensively studied, very little is known regarding the regulation of mRNA degradation and its coordination with transcription. Here we examine the evolution of mRNA degradation rates between two closely related yeast species. Surprisingly, we find that around half of the evolutionary changes in mRNA degradation were coupled to transcriptional changes that exert opposite effects on mRNA levels. Analysis of mRNA degradation rates in an interspecific hybrid further suggests that opposite evolutionary changes in transcription and in mRNA degradation are mechanistically coupled and were generated by the same individual mutations. Coupled changes are associated with divergence of two complexes that were previously implicated both in transcription and in mRNA degradation (Rpb4/7 and Ccr4-Not), as well as with sequence divergence of transcription factor binding motifs. These results suggest that an opposite coupling between the regulation of transcription and that of mRNA degradation has shaped the evolution of gene regulation in yeast. PMID:21811398

Mirroring and beyond: coupled dynamics as a generalized framework for modelling social interactions

PubMed Central

Hasson, Uri; Frith, Chris D.

2016-01-01

When people observe one another, behavioural alignment can be detected at many levels, from the physical to the mental. Likewise, when people process the same highly complex stimulus sequences, such as films and stories, alignment is detected in the elicited brain activity. In early sensory areas, shared neural patterns are coupled to the low-level properties of the stimulus (shape, motion, volume, etc.), while in high-order brain areas, shared neural patterns are coupled to high-levels aspects of the stimulus, such as meaning. Successful social interactions require such alignments (both behavioural and neural), as communication cannot occur without shared understanding. However, we need to go beyond simple, symmetric (mirror) alignment once we start interacting. Interactions are dynamic processes, which involve continuous mutual adaptation, development of complementary behaviour and division of labour such as leader–follower roles. Here, we argue that interacting individuals are dynamically coupled rather than simply aligned. This broader framework for understanding interactions can encompass both processes by which behaviour and brain activity mirror each other (neural alignment), and situations in which behaviour and brain activity in one participant are coupled (but not mirrored) to the dynamics in the other participant. To apply these more sophisticated accounts of social interactions to the study of the underlying neural processes we need to develop new experimental paradigms and novel methods of data analysis PMID:27069044

Controlling nonlinear optical response in an open four-level molecular system using quantum control of spin-orbit interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jamshidi-Ghaleh, Kazem; Ebrahimi-hamed, Zahra; Sahrai, Mostafa

2017-10-01

This paper investigates the behavior of linear and nonlinear optical susceptibility of an open four-level molecular system, under two-step excitation based on electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT). The system was irradiated with a weak probe field and strong coupling field. It is shown that the use of a strong coupling field in the triplet states of an alkali-metal dimer can change the spin-orbit interaction (SOI). The optical response of the system can then be modified in a controllable way. The electromagnetically induced transparency transforms into electromagnetically induced absorption (EIA) in the presence of a coupling field. Changing the sign of the dispersion, this region is associated with switching subluminal and superluminal propagation. Furthermore, for the proper value of the coupling field, the controllable parameters, enhanced Kerr nonlinearity with reduced linear absorption, can be obtained under a weak probe field. With this approach, SOI can be controlled by changing only one of the controllable parameters, using triplet-triplet strong coupling with different spin state. Therefore, the desired region of the spectra can be obtained, in contrast to the other four-level system, in which at least two strong fields are used to change optical properties. This mechanism can be suitable in molecular systems or semiconductors to be used in optical bistability and fast all-optical switching devices.

[Coupling coordination measurement of urbanization and eco-environment system in Huaihe River Basin of China based on fuzzy matter element theory].

PubMed

Guo, Yue-Ting; Xu, Jian-Gang

2013-05-01

Based on the statistical data of urbanization and eco-environment of 35 cities in the Huaihe River Basin of China in 2010, an index system of urbanization-eco-environment system was established by using fuzzy matter element theory, and the weight of each indicator was calculated by entropy method. The improved function of the coupling coordination degree of urbanization and eco-environment was constructed to measure this coupling coordination degree in the Huaihe River Basin. In 2010, the development level of urbanization subsystem in the Basin was lower than that of the eco-environment subsystem, and the integrated coordination index of urbanization and eco-environment was 0.186, indicating that there was a gap between the two types of indicators. The average coupling degree of urbanization and eco-environment was 0.475, indicating that the urbanization-eco-environment system was at antagonistic stage. There was a greater difference in the development level of urbanization subsystem, but a smaller difference in the development level of eco-environment subsystem among the cities. The average value of the coordination degree of all the cities was 0.706, indicating that the Huaihe River Basin was at high coordination coupling stage, and the integrated coherence and synergistic effect of urbanization and eco-environment construction in the Huaihe River Basin was higher.

Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for Prevention of HIV in Serodiscordant Heterosexual Couples in the United States: Opportunities and Challenges

PubMed Central

Myers, Julie E.; Kurth, Ann E.; Cohen, Stephanie E.; Mannheimer, Sharon B.; Simmons, Janie; Pouget, Enrique R.; Trabold, Nicole; Haberer, Jessica E.

2014-01-01

Abstract Oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising new biomedical prevention approach in which HIV-negative individuals are provided with daily oral antiretroviral medication for the primary prevention of HIV-1. Several clinical trials have demonstrated efficacy of oral PrEP for HIV prevention among groups at high risk for HIV, with adherence closely associated with level of risk reduction. In the United States (US), three groups have been prioritized for initial implementation of PrEP—injection drug users, men who have sex with men at substantial risk for HIV, and HIV-negative partners within serodiscordant heterosexual couples. Numerous demonstration projects involving PrEP implementation among MSM are underway, but relatively little research has been devoted to study PrEP implementation in HIV-serodiscordant heterosexual couples in the US. Such couples face a unique set of challenges to PrEP implementation at the individual, couple, and provider level with regard to PrEP uptake and maintenance, adherence, safety and toxicity, clinical monitoring, and sexual risk behavior. Oral PrEP also provides new opportunities for serodiscordant couples and healthcare providers for primary prevention and reproductive health. This article provides a review of the critical issues, challenges, and opportunities involved in the implementation of oral PrEP among HIV-serodiscordant heterosexual couples in the US. PMID:25045996

Assessment of Social Traits in Married Couples: Self-Reports versus Spouse Ratings around the Interpersonal Circumplex

PubMed Central

Smith, Timothy W.; Williams, Paula G.

2015-01-01

Personality traits predict the quality of intimate relationships, and as a result can be useful additions to assessments of couple functioning. For traits involving social behavior, the affiliation (i.e., warmth, friendliness vs. hostility, quarrelsomeness) and control (i.e., dominance vs. deference, submissiveness) dimensions of the interpersonal circumplex (IPC) are an alternative to the five-factor model traits of agreeableness and extraversion, given that they may provide a more specific and relevant description of social behavior in the context of couple functioning. The couple context creates an opportunity to supplement commonly used self-reports with informant ratings. Although substantial correlations between self-reports and partner ratings of personality are well-documented, differences between these assessment modalities in levels of affiliation and control have not been examined previously. The present study of 301 middle-aged and older couples addressed this issue by comparing self-reports and spouse ratings, using parallel forms of a measure of the interpersonal circumplex derived from the NEO PI-R. Participants reported lower trait dominance relative to spouses’ ratings, and less trait hostility. For dominance, this discrepancy was evident at all levels of marital quality, but for hostility it was particularly apparent among couples reporting low marital quality. The tendency to self-report less dominance relative to ratings by spouses was stronger among women than men. These discrepancies may be important in couple assessment and intervention. PMID:26372262

Electron phonon coupling in Ni-based binary alloys with application to displacement cascade modeling

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Samolyuk, German D.; Stocks, George Malcolm; Stoller, Roger E.

Energy transfer between lattice atoms and electrons is an important channel of energy dissipation during displacement cascade evolution in irradiated materials. On the assumption of small atomic displacements, the intensity of this transfer is controlled by the strength of electron–phonon (el–ph) coupling. The el–ph coupling in concentrated Ni-based alloys was calculated using electronic structure results obtained within the coherent potential approximation. It was found that Ni 0.5Fe 0.5, Ni 0.5Co 0.5 and Ni 0.5Pd 0.5 are ordered ferromagnetically, whereas Ni 0.5Cr 0.5 is nonmagnetic. Since the magnetism in these alloys has a Stoner-type origin, the magnetic ordering is accompanied bymore » a decrease of electronic density of states at the Fermi level, which in turn reduces the el–ph coupling. Thus, the el–ph coupling values for all alloys are approximately 50% smaller in the magnetic state than for the same alloy in a nonmagnetic state. As the temperature increases, the calculated coupling initially increases. After passing the Curie temperature, the coupling decreases. The rate of decrease is controlled by the shape of the density of states above the Fermi level. Introducing a two-temperature model based on these parameters in 10 keV molecular dynamics cascade simulation increases defect production by 10–20% in the alloys under consideration.« less

Electron phonon coupling in Ni-based binary alloys with application to displacement cascade modeling

DOE PAGES

Samolyuk, German D.; Stocks, George Malcolm; Stoller, Roger E.

2016-04-01

Energy transfer between lattice atoms and electrons is an important channel of energy dissipation during displacement cascade evolution in irradiated materials. On the assumption of small atomic displacements, the intensity of this transfer is controlled by the strength of electron–phonon (el–ph) coupling. The el–ph coupling in concentrated Ni-based alloys was calculated using electronic structure results obtained within the coherent potential approximation. It was found that Ni 0.5Fe 0.5, Ni 0.5Co 0.5 and Ni 0.5Pd 0.5 are ordered ferromagnetically, whereas Ni 0.5Cr 0.5 is nonmagnetic. Since the magnetism in these alloys has a Stoner-type origin, the magnetic ordering is accompanied bymore » a decrease of electronic density of states at the Fermi level, which in turn reduces the el–ph coupling. Thus, the el–ph coupling values for all alloys are approximately 50% smaller in the magnetic state than for the same alloy in a nonmagnetic state. As the temperature increases, the calculated coupling initially increases. After passing the Curie temperature, the coupling decreases. The rate of decrease is controlled by the shape of the density of states above the Fermi level. Introducing a two-temperature model based on these parameters in 10 keV molecular dynamics cascade simulation increases defect production by 10–20% in the alloys under consideration.« less

Short-term impact of atmospheric pollution on fecundability.

PubMed

Slama, Rémy; Bottagisi, Sébastien; Solansky, Ivo; Lepeule, Johanna; Giorgis-Allemand, Lise; Sram, Radim

2013-11-01

Epidemiologic studies have reported associations between air pollution levels and semen characteristics, which might in turn affect a couple's ability to achieve a live birth. Our aim was to characterize short-term effects of atmospheric pollutants on fecundability (the month-specific probability of pregnancy among noncontracepting couples). For a cohort of births between 1994 and 1999 in Teplice (Czech Republic), we averaged fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, ozone, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide levels estimated from a central measurement site over the 60-day period before the end of the first month of unprotected intercourse. We estimated changes in the probability of occurrence of a pregnancy during the first month of unprotected intercourse associated with exposure, using binomial regression and adjusting for maternal behaviors and time trends. Among the 1,916 recruited couples, 486 (25%) conceived during the first month of unprotected intercourse. Each increase of 10 µg/m in PM2.5 levels was associated with an adjusted decrease in fecundability of 22% (95% confidence interval = 6%-35%). NO2 levels were also associated with decreased fecundability. There was no evidence of adverse effects with the other pollutants considered. Biases related to pregnancy planning or temporal trends in air pollution were unlikely to explain the observed associations. In this polluted area, we highlighted short-term decreases in a couple's ability to conceive in association with PM2.5 and NO2 levels assessed in a central monitoring station.

[Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Sexual Satisfaction, Marital Adjustment, and Levels of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Couples with Vaginismus].

PubMed

Şafak Öztürk, Cennet; Arkar, Haluk

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on sexual functions of women with vaginismus and their husbands, their marital adjustment, and their levels of depression and anxiety symptoms. Twenty-six couples diagnosed as vaginismus according to DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria in gynecology outpatient clinics of Izmir Ege Maternity Hospital and Gynecological Diseases Training and Research Hospital were included in the study. The couples were treated with CBT through 50-minute sessions once a week. Pre- and post-treatment, all couples were assessed using a Personal Information Form, Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and Beck Anxiety Inventory. There were significant differences in the total and all subscales' scores of sexual functions, significant increase in the marital adjustment, and a significant decrease in anxiety and depression symptom levels after CBT in women who completed the therapy (n = 20). In the husbands, significant recoveries were observed after the therapy in sexual functions total scores and subscales of satisfaction, avoidance, and impotence. However, there was no change in frequency, communication, sensuality, and in the premature ejaculation domains. Also, the marital adjustment scores increased, and significant decreases were observed in depression and anxiety symptom levels. It was observed that CBT is an appropriate therapy approach for vaginismus, and beneficial effects were observed in both women and their husbands in sexual functions, marital adjustment, and levels of depression and anxiety symptoms decreased.

Greater emotional arousal predicts poorer long-term memory of communication skills in couples.

PubMed

Baucom, Brian R; Weusthoff, Sarah; Atkins, David C; Hahlweg, Kurt

2012-06-01

Many studies have examined the importance of learning skills in behaviorally based couple interventions but none have examined predictors of long-term memory for skills. Associations between emotional arousal and long-term recall of communication skills delivered to couples during a behaviorally based relationship distress prevention program were examined in a sample of 49 German couples. Fundamental frequency (f(0)), a vocal measure of encoded emotional arousal, was measured during pre-treatment couple conflict. Higher levels of f(0) were linked to fewer skills remembered 11 years after completing the program, and women remembered more skills than men. Implications of results for behaviorally based couple interventions are discussed. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Co-variation of fatigue and psychobiological stress in couples' everyday life.

PubMed

Doerr, Johanna M; Nater, Urs M; Ehlert, Ulrike; Ditzen, Beate

2018-06-01

There is limited knowledge about how fatigue develops and worsens and what influences fluctuations in daily fatigue. Stress was found to influence fatigue, and being in a relationship seems to either increase or decrease stress depending on the couple interaction. In this study, co-variation of fatigue, self-reported stress, and biological stress markers in couples' everyday lives was investigated. Specifically, we examined a) whether momentary couple interactions moderated dyadic outcomes and b) whether and how stress and relationship measures influenced individual momentary fatigue. Forty heterosexual couples (age: 28 ± 5 years) reported subjective fatigue and stress levels 4 times a day for 5 consecutive days (1600 measures). Furthermore, participants reported whether they had interacted with their partner since the last data entry and, if so, they rated the valence of this interaction. Salivary cortisol (a measure of HPA axis activity) and alpha amylase (a measure of ANS activity) were analyzed as biological stress markers from saliva samples obtained at the same time points. Moment-to-moment data were analyzed using dyadic multilevel models to account for the nested design. Stress (women and men: p ≤ 0.001) and fatigue (women: p = .003, men: p = .020) showed patterns of co-variation within couples, especially if partners had interacted with each other since the previous data entry. Cortisol was also found to co-vary between partners (women: unstandardized coefficient (UC) = 0.12, p ≤ .001, men: UC = 0.18, p ≤ .001), whereas the regulation of alpha-amylase levels depending on the partner's levels was only present in women (UC = 0.11, p = .002). Valence of couple interaction was negatively associated with fatigue (women: UC = -0.13, p ≤ .001, men: UC = -0.06, p = .011). There was no momentary association of fatigue with an individual's own or the partner's subjective or biological stress markers. Fatigue and stress levels during the day seem to co-vary within couples. These associations were particularly strong when the partners had interacted with each other since the last measurement. These data underline the importance of social factors in fatigue and stress in everyday life. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Transient evolution of plate coupling after the giant 1960 Chile earthquake at Guafo Island

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melnick, Daniel; Moreno, Marcos; Li, Shaoyang; Cisternas, Marco; Baez, Juan Carlos; Wesson, Robert; Nelson, Alan; Bevis, Michael

2015-04-01

In subduction zones, elastic energy is slowly accumulated during decades to centuries and suddenly released by great earthquakes. The moment deficit-the energy available for future earthquakes-is commonly inferred by extrapolating modern plate coupling rates estimated from space geodesy back to the last great earthquake's date. However, the evolution of plate coupling between two great earthquakes integrating the moment deficit has been difficult to quantify due to limited geodetic data at decadal time scale, or longer. We infer the evolution of plate coupling below Guafo Island in the south Chilean subduction zone since the 1960 earthquake (Mw=9.5) using photographic and satellite images dating back to 1974, a campaign GPS benchmark installed in 1994, and a permanent GPS station installed in 2009. Guafo was uplifted 3.6-4.0 m in 1960 and has been subsiding since at least the late 1970s. A peaty soil that rapidly developed on the bedrock abrasion platforms that emerged in 1960 has been continuously eroding by relative sea-level rise resulting mostly from land subsidence. This process has resulted in continuous retreat of beach berms overlying bedrock platforms. We mapped such shoreline features in photographic and satellite images through time and, using the measured slope of the underlying platform, inferred relative sea-level changes between image pairs. Land-level changes were subsequently estimated by subtracting a mean absolute sea-level rise rate of 1.7 +/- 0.1 mm/yr calculated from satellite altimetry between 1992-2014. The combined time series shows a steady acceleration in the subsidence rate of Guafo Island from 6-8 mm/yr in the late 1970s to 20 mm/yr at present estimated from the permanent GPS. Using a viscoelastic numerical model and constraints for the seismogenic zone width from published thermal models we infer that interseismic plate coupling increased continuously from ~30% in the late 1970s to ~90% at present. Plate coupling apparently needed more than two decades to be restored after the 1960 earthquake. Changes in pore-fluid pressure, which has been suggested to be inversely related to interseismic coupling, associated with fault healing processes after damage induced by >10 m of slip in 1960 might explain restoration of full interseismic plate coupling only decades after the giant earthquake. These findings suggest a transient evolution of interseismic coupling. This has profound implications for the estimation of the moment deficit and the probability distribution for the magnitude of future earthquakes as a function of time.

Community-based implementation and effectiveness in a randomized trial of a risk reduction intervention for HIV-serodiscordant couples: study protocol

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to disproportionately affect African American communities in the US, particularly those located in urban areas. Despite the fact that HIV is often transmitted from one sexual partner to another, most HIV prevention interventions have focused only on individuals, rather than couples. This five-year study investigates community-based implementation, effectiveness, and sustainability of ‘Eban II,’ an evidence-based risk reduction intervention for African-American heterosexual, serodiscordant couples. Methods/design This hybrid implementation/effectiveness implementation study is guided by organizational change theory as conceptualized in the Texas Christian University Program Change Model (PCM), a model of phased organizational change from exposure to adoption, implementation, and sustainability. The primary implementation aims are to assist 10 community-based organizations (CBOs) to implement and sustain Eban II; specifically, to partner with CBOs to expose providers to the intervention; facilitate its adoption, implementation and sustainment; and to evaluate processes and determinants of implementation, effectiveness, fidelity, and sustainment. The primary effectiveness aim is to evaluate the effect of Eban II on participant (n = 200 couples) outcomes, specifically incidents of protected sex and proportion of condom use. We will also determine the cost-effectiveness of implementation, as measured by implementation costs and potential cost savings. A mixed methods evaluation will examine implementation at the agency level; staff members from the CBOs will complete baseline measures of organizational context and climate, while key stakeholders will be interviewed periodically throughout implementation. Effectiveness of Eban II will be assessed using a randomized delayed enrollment (waitlist) control design to evaluate the impact of treatment on outcomes at posttest and three-month follow-up. Multi-level hierarchical modeling with a multi-level nested structure will be used to evaluate the effects of agency- and couples-level characteristics on couples-level outcomes (e.g., condom use). Discussion This study will produce important information regarding the value of the Eban II program and a theory-guided implementation process and tools designed for use in implementing Eban II and other evidence-based programs in demographically diverse, resource-constrained treatment settings. Trial registration NCT00644163 PMID:24950708

Community-based implementation and effectiveness in a randomized trial of a risk reduction intervention for HIV-serodiscordant couples: study protocol.

PubMed

Hamilton, Alison B; Mittman, Brian S; Williams, John K; Liu, Honghu H; Eccles, Alicia M; Hutchinson, Craig S; Wyatt, Gail E

2014-06-20

The HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to disproportionately affect African American communities in the US, particularly those located in urban areas. Despite the fact that HIV is often transmitted from one sexual partner to another, most HIV prevention interventions have focused only on individuals, rather than couples. This five-year study investigates community-based implementation, effectiveness, and sustainability of 'Eban II,' an evidence-based risk reduction intervention for African-American heterosexual, serodiscordant couples. This hybrid implementation/effectiveness implementation study is guided by organizational change theory as conceptualized in the Texas Christian University Program Change Model (PCM), a model of phased organizational change from exposure to adoption, implementation, and sustainability. The primary implementation aims are to assist 10 community-based organizations (CBOs) to implement and sustain Eban II; specifically, to partner with CBOs to expose providers to the intervention; facilitate its adoption, implementation and sustainment; and to evaluate processes and determinants of implementation, effectiveness, fidelity, and sustainment. The primary effectiveness aim is to evaluate the effect of Eban II on participant (n = 200 couples) outcomes, specifically incidents of protected sex and proportion of condom use. We will also determine the cost-effectiveness of implementation, as measured by implementation costs and potential cost savings. A mixed methods evaluation will examine implementation at the agency level; staff members from the CBOs will complete baseline measures of organizational context and climate, while key stakeholders will be interviewed periodically throughout implementation. Effectiveness of Eban II will be assessed using a randomized delayed enrollment (waitlist) control design to evaluate the impact of treatment on outcomes at posttest and three-month follow-up. Multi-level hierarchical modeling with a multi-level nested structure will be used to evaluate the effects of agency- and couples-level characteristics on couples-level outcomes (e.g., condom use). This study will produce important information regarding the value of the Eban II program and a theory-guided implementation process and tools designed for use in implementing Eban II and other evidence-based programs in demographically diverse, resource-constrained treatment settings. NCT00644163.

Sensitivity of grounding line dynamics to viscoelastic deformation of the solid Earth: Inferences from a fully coupled ice sheet - solid Earth model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konrad, H.; Sasgen, I.; Thoma, M.; Klemann, V.; Grosfeld, K.; Martinec, Z.

2013-12-01

The interactions of ice sheets with the sea level and the solid Earth are important factors for the stability of the ice shelves and the tributary inland ice (e.g. Thomas and Bentley, 1978; Gomez et al, 2012). First, changes in ice extent and ice thickness induce viscoelastic deformation of the Earth surface and Earth's gravity field. In turn, global and local changes in sea level and bathymetry affect the grounding line and, subsequently, alter the ice dynamic behaviour. Here, we investigate these feedbacks for a synthetic ice sheet configuration as well as for the Antarctic ice sheet using a three-dimensional thermomechanical ice sheet and shelf model, coupled to a viscoelastic solid-Earth and gravitationally self-consistent sea-level model. The respective ice sheet undergoes a forcing from rising sea level, warming ocean, and/or changing surface mass balance. The coupling is realized by exchanging ice thickness, Earth surface deformation, and sea level periodically. We apply several sets of viscoelastic Earth parameters to our coupled model, e.g. simulating a low-viscous upper mantle present at the Antarctic Peninsula (Ivins et al., 2011). Special focus of our study lies on the evolution of Earth surface deformation and local sea level changes, as well as on the accompanying grounding line evolution. N. Gomez, D. Pollard, J. X. Mitrovica, P. Huybers, and P. U. Clark 2012. Evolution of a coupled marine ice sheet-sea level model, J. Geophys. Res., 117, F01013, doi:10.1029/2011JF002128. E. R. Ivins, M. M. Watkins, D.-N. Yuan, R. Dietrich, G. Casassa, and A. Rülke 2011. On-land ice loss and glacial isostatic adjustment at the Drake Passage: 2003-2009, J. Geophys. Res. 116, B02403, doi: 10.1029/2010JB007607 R. H. Thomas and C. R. Bentley 1978. A model for Holocene retreat of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, Quaternary Research, 10 (2), pages 150-170, doi: 10.1016/0033-5894(78)90098-4.

Limitations of STIRAP-like population transfer in extended systems: the three-level system embedded in a web of background states.

PubMed

Jakubetz, Werner

2012-12-14

This paper presents a systematic numerical investigation of background state participation in STIRAP (stimulated Raman-adiabatic passage) population transfer among vibrational states, focusing on the consequences for the robustness of the method. The simulations, which are performed over extended grids in the parameter space of the Stokes- and pump pulses (frequencies, field strengths, and pulse lengths), involve hierarchies of (3 + N)-level systems of increasing complexity, ranging from the standard three-level STIRAP setup, (N = 0) in Λ-configuration, up to N = 446. A strongly coupled three-level core system is selected from the full Hamiltonian of the double-well HCN∕HNC system, and the couplings connecting this core system to the remaining states are (re-) parameterized in different ways, from very weak to very strong. The systems so obtained represent a three-level system embedded in various ways in webs of cross-linked vibrational background states and incorporate typical molecular properties. We first summarize essential properties of population transfer in the standard three-level system and quantify the robustness of the method and its dependence on the pulse parameters. Against these reference results, we present results obtained for four (3 + 446)-level systems and several subsystems. For pulse lengths of at most few picoseconds the intrinsic robustness of STIRAP with respect to variations in the field strength disappears as soon as the largest core-background couplings exceed about one tenth of the STIRAP couplings. In such cases robustness with respect to variations in the field strength is entirely lost, since at higher field strengths, except for irregularly spaced narrow frequency ranges, transfer probabilities are strongly reduced. STIRAP-like population transfer is maintained, with some restrictions, at low field strengths near the onset of adiabatic transfer. The suppression of STIRAP is traced back to different mechanisms based on a plentitude of single- and multiphoton transitions to background states, which at the high field strengths characteristic for STIRAP proceed readily even along weakly coupled pathways.

Mutual Coupling and Compensation in FMCW MIMO Radar Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmid, Christian M.; Feger, Reinhard; Wagner, Christoph; Stelzer, Andreas

2011-09-01

This paper deals with mutual coupling, its effects and the compensation thereof in frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) array radar systems. Starting with a signal model we introduce mutual coupling and its primary sources in FMCW MIMO systems. We also give a worst-case boundary of the effects that mutual coupling can have on the side lobe level of an array. A method of dealing with and compensating for these effects is covered in this paper and verified by measurements from a 77-GHz FMCW radar system.

Affective Synchrony in Dual- and Single-Smoker Couples: Further Evidence of “Symptom-System Fit”?

PubMed Central

ROHRBAUGH, MICHAEL J.; SHOHAM, VARDA; BUTLER, EMILYA.; HASLER, BRANT P.; BERMAN, JEFFREY S.

2009-01-01

Couples in which one or both partners smoked despite one of them having a heart or lung problem discussed a health-related disagreement before and during a period of laboratory smoking. Immediately afterwards, the partners in these 25 couples used independent joysticks to recall their continuous emotional experience during the interaction while watching themselves on video. A couple-level index of affective synchrony, reflecting correlated moment-to-moment change in the two partners’ joystick ratings, tended to increase from baseline to smoking for 9 dual-smoker couples but decrease for 16 single-smoker couples. Results suggest that coregulation of shared emotional experience could be a factor in smoking persistence, particularly when both partners in a couple smoke. Relationship-focused interventions addressing this fit between symptom and system may help smokers achieve stable cessation. PMID:19378645

INFLUENCE NETWORK AGENT EFFECTIVENESS IN PROMOTING COUPLES’ HIV COUNSELING AND TESTING IN KIGALI, RWANDA

PubMed Central

Wall, Kristin; Karita, Etienne; Nizam, Azhar; Bekan, Brigitte; Sardar, Gurkiran; Casanova, Debbie; Joseph, Dvora; De Clercq, Freya; Kestelyn, Evelyne; Bayingana, Roger; Tichacek, Amanda; Allen, Susan

2013-01-01

Objective To identify predictors of promotion of couples’ voluntary counseling and testing (CVCT) in Kigali, Rwanda Design Analysis of CVCT promotional agent (influential network leaders, INLs; influential network agents, INAs), and couple/invitation-level predictors of CVCT uptake. Methods Number of invitations and couples tested were evaluated by INL, INA, and couple/contextual factors. Multivariable logistic regression accounting for two-level clustering analyzed factors predictive of couples’ testing. Results 26 INLs recruited and mentored 118 INAs who delivered 24,991 invitations. 4,513 couples sought CVCT services after invitation. INAs distributed an average of 212 invitations resulting in an average of 38 couples tested/agent. Characteristics predictive of CVCT in multivariate analyses included the invitee and INA being socially acquainted (aOR=1.4;95%CI:1.2–1.6); invitations delivered after public endorsement (aOR=1.3;95%CI:1.1–1.5); and presence of a mobile testing unit (aOR=1.4;95%CI:1.0–2.0). In stratified analyses, predictors significant among cohabiting couples included invitation delivery to the couple (aOR=1.2;95%CI:1.0–1.4) in the home (aOR=1.3;95%CI:1.1–1.4), while among non-cohabiting couples predictors included invitations given by unemployed INAs (aOR=1.7;95%CI:1.1–2.7). Cohabiting couples with older men were more likely to test, while younger age was associated with testing among men in non-cohabiting unions. Conclusions Invitations distributed by influential people were successful in prompting couples to seek joint HIV testing, particularly if the invitation was given in the home to someone known to the INA, and accompanied by a public endorsement of CVCT. Mobile units also increased the number of couples tested. Country-specific strategies to promote CVCT programs are needed to reduce HIV transmission among those at highest risk for HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. PMID:22008653

Education-based health inequalities in 18,000 Norwegian couples: the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT).

PubMed

Nilsen, Sara Marie; Bjørngaard, Johan Håkon; Ernstsen, Linda; Krokstad, Steinar; Westin, Steinar

2012-11-19

Education-based inequalities in health are well established, but they are usually studied from an individual perspective. However, many individuals are part of a couple. We studied education-based health inequalities from the perspective of couples where indicators of health were measured by subjective health, anxiety and depression. A sample of 35,980 women and men (17,990 couples) was derived from the Norwegian Nord-Trøndelag Health Study 1995-97 (HUNT 2). Educational data and family identification numbers were obtained from Statistics Norway. The dependent variables were subjective health (four-integer scale), anxiety (21-integer scale) and depression (21-integer scale), which were captured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The dependent variables were rescaled from 0 to 100 where 100 was the worst score. Cross-sectional analyses were performed using two-level linear random effect regression models. The variance attributable to the couple level was 42% for education, 16% for subjective health, 19% for anxiety and 25% for depression. A one-year increase in education relative to that of one's partner was associated with an improvement of 0.6 scale points (95% confidence interval = 0.5-0.8) in the subjective health score (within-couple coefficient). A one-year increase in a couple's average education was associated with an improvement of 1.7 scale points (95% confidence interval = 1.6-1.8) in the subjective health score (between-couple coefficient). There were no education-based differences in the anxiety or depression scores when partners were compared, whereas there were substantial education-based differences between couples in all three outcome measures. We found considerable clustering of education and health within couples, which highlighted the importance of the family environment. Our results support previous studies that report the mutual effects of spouses on education-based inequalities in health, suggesting that couples develop their socioeconomic position together.

[Study on the modeling of earth-atmosphere coupling over rugged scenes for hyperspectral remote sensing].

PubMed

Zhao, Hui-Jie; Jiang, Cheng; Jia, Guo-Rui

2014-01-01

Adjacency effects may introduce errors in the quantitative applications of hyperspectral remote sensing, of which the significant item is the earth-atmosphere coupling radiance. However, the surrounding relief and shadow induce strong changes in hyperspectral images acquired from rugged terrain, which is not accurate to describe the spectral characteristics. Furthermore, the radiative coupling process between the earth and the atmosphere is more complex over the rugged scenes. In order to meet the requirements of real-time processing in data simulation, an equivalent reflectance of background was developed by taking into account the topography and the geometry between surroundings and targets based on the radiative transfer process. The contributions of the coupling to the signal at sensor level were then evaluated. This approach was integrated to the sensor-level radiance simulation model and then validated through simulating a set of actual radiance data. The results show that the visual effect of simulated images is consistent with that of observed images. It was also shown that the spectral similarity is improved over rugged scenes. In addition, the model precision is maintained at the same level over flat scenes.

Search for W' $$\\to $$ tb decays in the lepton + jets final state in pp collisions at $$\\sqrt{s}$$ = 8 TeV

DOE PAGES

Chatrchyan, Serguei

2014-05-23

Results are presented from a search for the production of a heavy gauge boson W' decaying into a top and a bottom quark, using a data set collected by the CMS experiment at sqrt(s) = 8 TeV and corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 19.5 inverse femtobarns. Various models of W'-boson production are studied by allowing for an arbitrary combination of left- and right-handed couplings. The analysis is based on the detection of events with a lepton (e, mu), jets, and missing transverse energy in the final state. No evidence for W'-boson production is found and 95% confidence level uppermore » limits on the production cross section times branching fraction are obtained. For W' bosons with purely right-handed couplings, and for those with left-handed couplings assuming no interference effects, the observed 95% confidence level limit is M(W') > 2.05 TeV. For W' bosons with purely left-handed couplings, including interference effects, the observed 95% confidence level limit is M(W') > 1.84 TeV. The results presented in this paper are the most stringent limits published to date.« less

Distributed Ferrite Isolation in Traveling-Wave Tubes.

DTIC Science & Technology

coupling to broadband edge modes of ferrite slabs. Evidence of coupling to the lower branch of edge mode, i.e., magnetostatic, has been obtained with L...band helix . Cold tests and analysis suggest coupling to ferrite edge modes from helix is easier at higher microwave frequencies. Plans for a hot...test at the 1-2 kW power level is an L-band TWT incorporating such distributed ferrites are described.

Detection of DNA Methylation by Whole-Genome Bisulfite Sequencing.

PubMed

Li, Qing; Hermanson, Peter J; Springer, Nathan M

2018-01-01

DNA methylation plays an important role in the regulation of the expression of transposons and genes. Various methods have been developed to assay DNA methylation levels. Bisulfite sequencing is considered to be the "gold standard" for single-base resolution measurement of DNA methylation levels. Coupled with next-generation sequencing, whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) allows DNA methylation to be evaluated at a genome-wide scale. Here, we described a protocol for WGBS in plant species with large genomes. This protocol has been successfully applied to assay genome-wide DNA methylation levels in maize and barley. This protocol has also been successfully coupled with sequence capture technology to assay DNA methylation levels in a targeted set of genomic regions.

String Scale Gauge Coupling Unification with Vector-Like Exotics and Noncanonical U(1)Y Normalization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barger, V.; Jiang, Jing; Langacker, Paul; Li, Tianjun

We use a new approach to study string scale gauge coupling unification systematically, allowing both the possibility of noncanonical U(1)Y normalization and the existence of vector-like particles whose quantum numbers are the same as those of the Standard Model (SM) fermions and their Hermitian conjugates and the SM adjoint particles. We first give all the independent sets (Yi) of particles that can be employed to achieve SU(3)C and SU(2)L string scale gauge coupling unification and calculate their masses. Second, for a noncanonical U(1)Y normalization, we obtain string scale SU(3)C ×SU(2)L ×U(1)Y gauge coupling unification by choosing suitable U(1)Y normalizations for each of the Yi sets. Alternatively, for the canonical U(1)Y normalization, we achieve string scale gauge coupling unification by considering suitable combinations of the Yi sets or by introducing additional independent sets (Zi), that do not affect the SU(3)C ×SU(2)L unification at tree level, and then choosing suitable combinations, one from the Yi sets and one from the Zi sets. We also briefly discuss string scale gauge coupling unification in models with higher Kac-Moody levels for SU(2)L or SU(3)C.

What the better half is thinking: A comparison of men’s and women’s responses and agreement between spouses regarding reported sexual and reproductive behaviors in Rwanda

PubMed Central

Hageman, Kathy M; Karita, Etienne; Kayitenkore, Kayitesi; Bayingana, Roger; van der Straten, Ariane; Stephenson, Rob; Conkling, Martha; Tichacek, Amanda; Mwananyanda, Lawrence; Kilembe, William; Haworth, Alan; Chomba, Elwyn; Allen, Susan A

2009-01-01

Objective To compare responses to a sexual behavioral survey of spouses in cohabiting heterosexual relationships in Kigali, Rwanda. Design Cross-sectional survey. Methods Husbands and wives in 779 cohabiting couples were interviewed separately with parallel questionnaires. Participants were recruited from a three-year old cohort of 1458 antenatal clinic attendees enrolled in a prospective study in 1988. Analyses compared responses at the gender- and couple-level for agreement and disagreement. Results Couples were in disagreement more than agreement. Women reported occasionally refusing sex, suggesting condom use, and believing married men were unfaithful. Men reported being in a faithful relationship, greater condom use, and being understanding when wives refused sex. Agreement included relationship characteristics, safety of condoms, and whether condoms had ever been used in the relationship. Disagreement included the preferred timing of next pregnancy, desire for more children, and whether a birth control method was currently used and type of method. Conclusions Rwandan husbands and wives differed in sexual behavior and reproductive-related topics. Couple-level reporting provides the most reliable measure for relationship aspects as couples’ agreement cannot be assumed among cohabiting partnerships. Furthermore, HIV prevention programs for couples should incorporate communication skills to encourage couple agreement of HIV-related issues. PMID:22110321

Hostile marital interactions, proinflammatory cytokine production, and wound healing.

PubMed

Kiecolt-Glaser, Janice K; Loving, Timothy J; Stowell, Jeffrey R; Malarkey, William B; Lemeshow, Stanley; Dickinson, Stephanie L; Glaser, Ronald

2005-12-01

A growing epidemiological literature has suggested that marital discord is a risk factor for morbidity and mortality. In addition, depression and stress are associated with enhanced production of proinflammatory cytokines that influence a spectrum of conditions associated with aging. To assess how hostile marital behaviors modulate wound healing, as well as local and systemic proinflammatory cytokine production. Couples were admitted twice to a hospital research unit for 24 hours in a crossover trial. Wound healing was assessed daily following research unit discharge. Volunteer sample of 42 healthy married couples, aged 22 to 77 years (mean [SD], 37.04 [13.05]), married a mean (SD) of 12.55 (11.01) years. During the first research unit admission, couples had a structured social support interaction, and during the second admission, they discussed a marital disagreement. Couples' interpersonal behavior, wound healing, and local and systemic changes in proinflammatory cytokine production were assessed during each research unit admission. Couples' blister wounds healed more slowly and local cytokine production (IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and IL-1beta) was lower at wound sites following marital conflicts than after social support interactions. Couples who demonstrated consistently higher levels of hostile behaviors across both their interactions healed at 60% of the rate of low-hostile couples. High-hostile couples also produced relatively larger increases in plasma IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha values the morning after a conflict than after a social support interaction compared with low-hostile couples. These data provide further mechanistic evidence of the sensitivity of wound healing to everyday stressors. Moreover, more frequent and amplified increases in proinflammatory cytokine levels could accelerate a range of age-related diseases. Thus, these data also provide a window on the pathways through which hostile or abrasive relationships affect physiological functioning and health.

Tropical Cyclone Activity in the High-Resolution Community Earth System Model and the Impact of Ocean Coupling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Hui; Sriver, Ryan L.

2018-01-01

High-resolution Atmosphere General Circulation Models (AGCMs) are capable of directly simulating realistic tropical cyclone (TC) statistics, providing a promising approach for TC-climate studies. Active air-sea coupling in a coupled model framework is essential to capturing TC-ocean interactions, which can influence TC-climate connections on interannual to decadal time scales. Here we investigate how the choices of ocean coupling can affect the directly simulated TCs using high-resolution configurations of the Community Earth System Model (CESM). We performed a suite of high-resolution, multidecadal, global-scale CESM simulations in which the atmosphere (˜0.25° grid spacing) is configured with three different levels of ocean coupling: prescribed climatological sea surface temperature (SST) (ATM), mixed layer ocean (SLAB), and dynamic ocean (CPL). We find that different levels of ocean coupling can influence simulated TC frequency, geographical distributions, and storm intensity. ATM simulates more storms and higher overall storm intensity than the coupled simulations. It also simulates higher TC track density over the eastern Pacific and the North Atlantic, while TC tracks are relatively sparse within CPL and SLAB for these regions. Storm intensification and the maximum wind speed are sensitive to the representations of local surface flux feedbacks in different coupling configurations. Key differences in storm number and distribution can be attributed to variations in the modeled large-scale climate mean state and variability that arise from the combined effect of intrinsic model biases and air-sea interactions. Results help to improve our understanding about the representation of TCs in high-resolution coupled Earth system models, with important implications for TC-climate applications.

The Effects of a Couples-Based Health Behavior Intervention During Pregnancy on Latino Couples' Dyadic Satisfaction Postpartum.

PubMed

Coop Gordon, Kristina; Roberson, Patricia N E; Hughes, Jessica A; Khaddouma, Alexander M; Swamy, Geeta K; Noonan, Devon; Gonzalez, Alicia M; Fish, Laura; Pollak, Kathryn I

2018-03-30

Many couples tend to report steadily decreasing relationship quality following the birth of a child. However, little is known about the postpartum period for Latino couples, a rapidly growing ethnic group who are notably underserved by mental and physical health caregivers in the United States. Thus, this study investigated whether a brief couples' intervention focused on helping couples support each other while increasing healthy behaviors might improve dyadic functioning postpartum. This study presents secondary analyses of data regarding couple functioning from a larger randomized controlled trial with 348 Latino couples to promote smoking cessation. Portions of the intervention taught the couple communication and problem-solving skills to increase healthy behavior. Couples participated in four face-to-face assessments across 1 year starting at the end of the first trimester. Latent growth curve analyses revealed that the treatment group reported an increase in relationship satisfaction and constructive communication after the intervention, which diminished by 1-year follow-up, returning couples to their baseline levels of satisfaction. Results suggest that incorporating a brief couple intervention as part of a larger health intervention for Latinos may prevent postpartum decreases in relationship satisfaction. © 2018 Family Process Institute.

For better or worse? Coregulation of couples' cortisol levels and mood states.

PubMed

Saxbe, Darby; Repetti, Rena L

2010-01-01

Although a majority of adults live with a close relationship partner, little is known about whether and how partners' momentary affect and physiology covary, or "coregulate." This study used a dyadic multilevel modeling approach to explore the coregulation of spouses' mood states and cortisol levels in 30 married couples who sampled saliva and reported on mood states 4 times per day for 3 days. For both husbands and wives, own cortisol level was positively associated with partner's cortisol level, even after sampling time was controlled. For wives, marital satisfaction weakened the strength of this effect. Partner's negative mood was positively associated with own negative mood for both husbands and wives. Marital satisfaction fully moderated this effect, reducing the strength of the association between one's own and one's partner's negative mood states. Spouses' positive moods were not correlated. As expected, within-couple coregulation coefficients were stronger when mood and cortisol were sampled in the early morning and evening, when spouses were together at home, than during the workday. The results suggest that spouses' fluctuations in negative mood and cortisol levels are linked over several days and that marital satisfaction may buffer spouses from their partners' negative mood or stress state.

Hall Effect–Mediated Magnetic Flux Transport in Protoplanetary Disks

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bai, Xue-Ning; Stone, James M.

2017-02-10

The global evolution of protoplanetary disks (PPDs) has recently been shown to be largely controlled by the amount of poloidal magnetic flux threading the disk. The amount of magnetic flux must also coevolve with the disk, as a result of magnetic flux transport, a process that is poorly understood. In weakly ionized gas as in PPDs, magnetic flux is largely frozen in the electron fluid, except when resistivity is large. When the disk is largely laminar, we show that the relative drift between the electrons and ions (the Hall drift), and the ions and neutral fluids (ambipolar drift) can playmore » a dominant role on the transport of magnetic flux. Using two-dimensional simulations that incorporate the Hall effect and ambipolar diffusion (AD) with prescribed diffusivities, we show that when large-scale poloidal field is aligned with disk rotation, the Hall effect rapidly drags magnetic flux inward at the midplane region, while it slowly pushes flux outward above/below the midplane. This leads to a highly radially elongated field configuration as a global manifestation of the Hall-shear instability. This field configuration further promotes rapid outward flux transport by AD at the midplane, leading to instability saturation. In quasi-steady state, magnetic flux is transported outward at approximately the same rate at all heights, and the rate is comparable to the Hall-free case. For anti-aligned field polarity, the Hall effect consistently transports magnetic flux outward, leading to a largely vertical field configuration in the midplane region. The field lines in the upper layer first bend radially inward and then outward to launch a disk wind. Overall, the net rate of outward flux transport is about twice as fast as that of the aligned case. In addition, the rate of flux transport increases with increasing disk magnetization. The absolute rate of transport is sensitive to disk microphysics, which remains to be explored in future studies.« less

Oxycodone Plus Ultra-Low-Dose Naltrexone Attenuates Neuropathic Pain and Associated μ-Opioid Receptor–Gs Coupling

PubMed Central

Largent-Milnes, Tally M.; Guo, Wenhong; Wang, Hoau-Yan; Burns, Lindsay H.; Vanderah, Todd W.

2017-01-01

Both peripheral nerve injury and chronic opioid treatment can result in hyperalgesia associated with enhanced excitatory neurotransmission at the level of the spinal cord. Chronic opioid administration leads to a shift in μ-opioid receptor (MOR)–G protein coupling from Gi/o to Gs that can be prevented by cotreatment with an ultra-low-dose opioid antagonist. In this study, using lumbar spinal cord tissue from rats with L5/L6 spinal nerve ligation (SNL), we demonstrated that SNL injury induces MOR linkage to Gs in the damaged (ipsilateral) spinal dorsal horn. This MOR-Gs coupling occurred without changing Gi/o coupling levels and without changing the expression of MOR or Gα proteins. Repeated administration of oxycodone alone or in combination with ultra-low-dose naltrexone (NTX) was assessed on the SNL-induced MOR-Gs coupling as well as on neuropathic pain behavior. Repeated spinal oxycodone exacerbated the SNL-induced MOR-Gs coupling, whereas ultra-low-dose NTX cotreatment slightly but significantly attenuated this Gs coupling. Either spinal or oral administration of oxycodone plus ultra-low-dose NTX markedly enhanced the reductions in allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia produced by oxycodone alone and minimized tolerance to these effects. The MOR-Gs coupling observed in response to SNL may in part contribute to the excitatory neurotransmission in spinal dorsal horn in neuropathic pain states. The antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic effects of oxycodone plus ultra-low-dose NTX (Oxytrex, Pain Therapeutics, Inc., San Mateo, CA) suggest a promising new treatment for neuropathic pain. PMID:18468954

Analytical ground state for the Jaynes-Cummings model with ultrastrong coupling

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang Yuanwei; Institute of Theoretical Physics, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006; Chen Gang

2011-06-15

We present a generalized variational method to analytically obtain the ground-state properties of the Jaynes-Cummings model with the ultrastrong coupling. An explicit expression for the ground-state energy, which agrees well with the numerical simulation in a wide range of the experimental parameters, is given. In particular, the introduced method can successfully solve this Jaynes-Cummings model with the positive detuning (the atomic resonant level is larger than the photon frequency), which cannot be treated in the adiabatical approximation and the generalized rotating-wave approximation. Finally, we also demonstrate analytically how to control the mean photon number by means of the current experimentalmore » parameters including the photon frequency, the coupling strength, and especially the atomic resonant level.« less

Optimal state transfer of a single dissipative two-level system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jirari, Hamza; Wu, Ning

2016-04-01

Optimal state transfer of a single two-level system (TLS) coupled to an Ohmic boson bath via off-diagonal TLS-bath coupling is studied by using optimal control theory. In the weak system-bath coupling regime where the time-dependent Bloch-Redfield formalism is applicable, we obtain the Bloch equation to probe the evolution of the dissipative TLS in the presence of a time-dependent external control field. By using the automatic differentiation technique to compute the gradient for the cost functional, we calculate the optimal transfer integral profile that can achieve an ideal transfer within a dimer system in the Fenna-Matthews-Olson (FMO) model. The robustness of the control profile against temperature variation is also analyzed.

Cross-coupling effects in circuit-QED stimulated Raman adiabatic passage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vepsäläinen, A.; Paraoanu, G. S.

2018-03-01

Stimulated Raman adiabatic passage is a quantum protocol that can be used for robust state preparation in a three-level system. It has been commonly employed in quantum optics, but recently this technique has drawn attention also in circuit quantum electrodynamics. The protocol relies on two slowly varying drive pulses that couple the initial and the target state via an intermediate state, which remains unpopulated. Here we study the detrimental effect of the parasitic couplings of the drives into transitions other than those required by the protocol. The effect is most prominent in systems with almost harmonic energy level structure, such as the transmon. We show that under these conditions in the presence of decoherence there exists an optimal STIRAP amplitude for population transfer.

Thermoelectric devices and applications for the same

DOEpatents

DeSteese, John G [Kennewick, WA; Olsen, Larry C [Richland, WA; Martin, Peter M [Kennewick, WA

2010-12-14

High performance thin film thermoelectric couples and methods of making the same are disclosed. Such couples allow fabrication of at least microwatt to watt-level power supply devices operating at voltages greater than one volt even when activated by only small temperature differences.

Thermoelectric devices and applications for the same

DOEpatents

Olsen, Larry C.; DeSteese, John G.; Martin, Peter M.; Johnston, John W.; Peters, Timothy J.

2016-03-08

High performance thin film thermoelectric couples and methods of making the same are disclosed. Such couples allow fabrication of at least microwatt to watt-level power supply devices operating at voltages greater than one volt even when activated by only small temperature differences.

Computational fluid dynamics and frequency-dependent finite-difference time-domain method coupling for the interaction between microwaves and plasma in rocket plumes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kinefuchi, K.; Funaki, I.; Shimada, T.; Abe, T.

2012-10-01

Under certain conditions during rocket flights, ionized exhaust plumes from solid rocket motors may interfere with radio frequency transmissions. To understand the relevant physical processes involved in this phenomenon and establish a prediction process for in-flight attenuation levels, we attempted to measure microwave attenuation caused by rocket exhaust plumes in a sea-level static firing test for a full-scale solid propellant rocket motor. The microwave attenuation level was calculated by a coupling simulation of the inviscid-frozen-flow computational fluid dynamics of an exhaust plume and detailed analysis of microwave transmissions by applying a frequency-dependent finite-difference time-domain method with the Drude dispersion model. The calculated microwave attenuation level agreed well with the experimental results, except in the case of interference downstream the Mach disk in the exhaust plume. It was concluded that the coupling estimation method based on the physics of the frozen plasma flow with Drude dispersion would be suitable for actual flight conditions, although the mixing and afterburning in the plume should be considered depending on the flow condition.

Racial discrimination and relationship functioning among African American couples.

PubMed

Lavner, Justin A; Barton, Allen W; Bryant, Chalandra M; Beach, Steven R H

2018-05-21

Racial discrimination is a common stressor for African Americans, with negative consequences for mental and physical well-being. It is likely that these effects extend into the family, but little research has examined the association between racial discrimination and couple functioning. This study used dyadic data from 344 rural, predominantly low-income heterosexual African American couples with an early adolescent child to examine associations between self-reported racial discrimination, psychological and physical aggression, and relationship satisfaction and instability. Experiences of discrimination were common among men and women and were negatively associated with relationship functioning. Specifically, men reported higher levels of psychological aggression and relationship instability if they experienced higher levels of racial discrimination, and women reported higher levels of physical aggression if they experienced higher levels of racial discrimination. All results replicated when controlling for financial hardship, indicating unique effects for discrimination. Findings suggest that racial discrimination may be negatively associated with relationship functioning among African Americans and call for further research on the processes underlying these associations and their long-term consequences. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Fermi Level shifting, Charge Transfer and Induced Magnetic Coupling at La0.7Ca0.3MnO3/LaNiO3 Interface

PubMed Central

Ning, Xingkun; Wang, Zhanjie; Zhang, Zhidong

2015-01-01

A large magnetic coupling has been observed at the La0.7Ca0.3MnO3/LaNiO3 (LCMO/LNO) interface. The x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) study results show that Fermi level continuously shifted across the LCMO/LNO interface in the interface region. In addition, the charge transfer between Mn and Ni ions of the type Mn3+ − Ni3+ → Mn4+ − Ni2+ with the oxygen vacancies are observed in the interface region. The intrinsic interfacial charge transfer can give rise to itinerant electrons, which results in a “shoulder feature” observed at the low binding energy in the Mn 2p core level spectra. Meanwhile, the orbital reconstruction can be mapped according to the Fermi level position and the charge transfer mode. It can be considered that the ferromagnetic interaction between Ni2+ and Mn4+ gives rise to magnetic regions that pin the ferromagnetic LCMO and cause magnetic coupling at the LCMO/LNO interface. PMID:25676088

Coupled qubits as a quantum heat switch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karimi, B.; Pekola, J. P.; Campisi, M.; Fazio, R.

2017-12-01

We present a quantum heat switch based on coupled superconducting qubits, connected to two LC resonators that are terminated by resistors providing two heat baths. To describe the system, we use a standard second order master equation with respect to coupling to the baths. We find that this system can act as an efficient heat switch controlled by the applied magnetic flux. The flux influences the energy level separations of the system, and under some conditions, the finite coupling of the qubits enhances the transmitted power between the two baths, by an order of magnitude under realistic conditions. At the same time, the bandwidth at maximum power of the switch formed of the coupled qubits is narrowed.

Oscillations in exchange coupling across a nonmagnetic metallic layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edwards, D. M.; Mathon, J.

1991-02-01

The exchange coupling between two strong itinerant ferromagnets separated by N atomic planes of a nonmagnetic metal is calculated using a Hubbard-type model. It is shown that for certain positions of the Fermi level the variation of the exchange coupling with N exhibits oscillations of long period. The amplitude of the oscillations falls of as 1/ N2 and agrees in order of magnitude with the exchange coupling observed by Parkin et al. in Co/Ru and Fe/Cr multilayers. Further agreement is the finding that antiparallel alignment of the ferromagnetic layers is favoured for small N. The relationship between the coupling found here and one of RKKY type is discussed.

A study of formation and development of one kind of cyclone on the mei-yu (Baiu) front

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Feng; Zhao, Sixiong

2004-10-01

The paper presents one diagnosis of baroclinity and the coupling of jets during the developing process of a cyclone that occurred on the mei-yu (Baiu) front around the end of the second stage of the mei-yu (Baiu) in 1998. Results have shown that: (1) The advantageous changes of upper-level large-scale circulation caused the appearance and maintenance of the coupling between the upper-level jet (ULJ) and lower-level jet (LLJ) over the cyclone’s area. The coupling of jets in this case possesses some different characteristics from previous cases. Moreover, the coupling between the ULJ and LLJ caused the intensification of both lower-level convergence and upper-level divergence, which was favorable for the development of this cyclone. (2) From the analysis of the voricity budget, the role of lower-level convergence in the development of the cyclone was emphasized. Divergent wind in the lower troposphere was a direct contributor to the development of the cyclone. (3) During the development of the cyclone, cold air and warm air were active over the cyclone’s domain. Although this cyclone occurred at the mei-yu (Baiu) front, its development assumed baroclinity to a certain extent, which was just the main difference between this kind of cyclone and the first kind of low which is usually barotropic (or quasi-barotropic). (4) In recent years, studies on mei-yu front lows have paid more attention to the lower troposphere. In this paper, the analysis of the energy budget further supports this point: the certain effect of baroclinity forcing in the upper troposphere on mei-yu front lows cannot be ignored.

Development of a coupled level set and immersed boundary method for predicting dam break flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, C. H.; Sheu, Tony W. H.

2017-12-01

Dam-break flow over an immersed stationary object is investigated using a coupled level set (LS)/immersed boundary (IB) method developed in Cartesian grids. This approach adopts an improved interface preserving level set method which includes three solution steps and the differential-based interpolation immersed boundary method to treat fluid-fluid and solid-fluid interfaces, respectively. In the first step of this level set method, the level set function ϕ is advected by a pure advection equation. The intermediate step is performed to obtain a new level set value through a new smoothed Heaviside function. In the final solution step, a mass correction term is added to the re-initialization equation to ensure the new level set is a distance function and to conserve the mass bounded by the interface. For accurately calculating the level set value, the four-point upwinding combined compact difference (UCCD) scheme with three-point boundary combined compact difference scheme is applied to approximate the first-order derivative term shown in the level set equation. For the immersed boundary method, application of the artificial momentum forcing term at points in cells consisting of both fluid and solid allows an imposition of velocity condition to account for the presence of solid object. The incompressible Navier-Stokes solutions are calculated using the projection method. Numerical results show that the coupled LS/IB method can not only predict interface accurately but also preserve the mass conservation excellently for the dam-break flow.

Sea-level and solid-Earth deformation feedbacks in ice sheet modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konrad, Hannes; Sasgen, Ingo; Klemann, Volker; Thoma, Malte; Grosfeld, Klaus; Martinec, Zdeněk

2014-05-01

The interactions of ice sheets with the sea level and the solid Earth are important factors for the stability of the ice shelves and the tributary inland ice (e.g. Thomas and Bentley, 1978; Gomez et al, 2012). First, changes in ice extent and ice thickness induce viscoelastic deformation of the Earth surface and Earth's gravity field. In turn, global and local changes in sea level and bathymetry affect the grounding line and, subsequently, alter the ice dynamic behaviour. Here, we investigate these feedbacks for a synthetic ice sheet configuration as well as for the Antarctic ice sheet using a three-dimensional thermomechanical ice sheet and shelf model, coupled to a viscoelastic solid-Earth and gravitationally self-consistent sea-level model. The respective ice sheet undergoes a forcing from rising sea level, warming ocean, and/or changing surface mass balance. The coupling is realized by exchanging ice thickness, Earth surface deformation and sea level periodically. We apply several sets of viscoelastic Earth parameters to our coupled model, e.g. simulating a low-viscous upper mantle present at the Antarctic Peninsula (Ivins et al., 2011). Special focus of our study lies on the evolution of Earth surface deformation and local sea level changes, as well as on the accompanying grounding line evolution. N. Gomez, D. Pollard, J. X. Mitrovica, P. Huybers, and P. U. Clark 2012. Evolution of a coupled marine ice sheet-sea level model, J. Geophys. Res., 117, F01013, doi:10.1029/2011JF002128. E. R. Ivins, M. M. Watkins, D.-N. Yuan, R. Dietrich, G. Casassa, and A. Rülke 2011. On-land ice loss and glacial isostatic adjustment at the Drake Passage: 2003-2009, J. Geophys. Res. 116, B02403, doi: 10.1029/2010JB007607 R. H. Thomas and C. R. Bentley 1978. A model for Holocene retreat of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, Quaternary Research, 10 (2), pages 150-170, doi: 10.1016/0033-5894(78)90098-4.

On the vibronic level structure in the NO3 radical. Part III. Observation of intensity borrowing via ground state mixing.

PubMed

Stanton, John F; Okumura, Mitchio

2009-06-21

The A(2)E''<-- X(2)A'(2) absorption spectrum exhibits vibronically allowed transitions from the ground state of NO(3) to upper state levels having a''(1) and e' vibronic symmetries. This paper explores the coupling mechanisms that lend intensities to these features. While transitions to e' vibronic levels borrow intensity from the very strong B(2)E'<-- X(2)A'(2) electronic transition, those to a''(1) levels involve only negligible upper-state borrowing effects. Rather, it is the vibronic mixing of the ground vibronic level of NO(3) with vibrational levels in the B(2)E' electronic state that permit the a''(1) levels to be seen in the spectrum. These ideas are supported by vibronic coupling calculations. The fact that the intensities of features corresponding to the two different vibronic symmetries are comparable is thus accidental.

The Interplay Between Interpersonal Stress and Psychological Intimate Partner Violence Over Time for Young At-Risk Couples

PubMed Central

Capaldi, Deborah M.; Kim, Hyoun K.; Tiberio, Stacey S.

2013-01-01

The substantial number of young people in romantic relationships that involve intimate partner violence, a situation deleterious to physical and mental health, has resulted in increased attention to understanding the links between risk factors and course of violence. The current study examined couples’ interpersonal stress related to not liking partners’ friends and not getting along with parents as contextual factors associated with couples’ psychological partner violence and determined whether and when couples’ friend and parent stress increased the likelihood of couples’ psychological partner violence. A linear latent growth curve modeling approach was used with multiwave measures of psychological partner violence, friend stress, parent stress, and relationship satisfaction obtained from 196 men at risk for delinquency and their women partners over a 12-year period. At the initial assessment, on average, the men were age 21.5 years and the women were age 21 years. Findings indicated that couples experiencing high levels of friend and parent stress were more likely to engage in high levels of psychological partner violence and that increases in couples’ friend stress predicted increases in couples’ partner violence over time, even when accounting for the couples’ relationship satisfaction, marital status, children in the home, and financial strain. Interactive effects were at play when the couples were in their early 20s, with couples being most at risk for increases in psychological partner violence if they experienced both high friend stress and low relationship satisfaction. Couples’ friend stress had the greatest effect on psychological partner violence when the couples were in their early to mid 20s when levels of friend stress were high. As the couples reached their 30s, low relationship satisfaction became the leading predictor of couples’ psychological partner violence. PMID:23358887

The effect of platform switching on the levels of metal ion release from different implant–abutment couples

PubMed Central

Alrabeah, Ghada O; Knowles, Jonathan C; Petridis, Haralampos

2016-01-01

The improved peri-implant bone response demonstrated by platform switching may be the result of reduced amounts of metal ions released to the surrounding tissues. The aim of this study was to compare the levels of metal ions released from platform-matched and platform-switched implant–abutment couples as a result of accelerated corrosion. Thirty-six titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) and cobalt–chrome alloy abutments were coupled with titanium cylinders forming either platform-switched or platform-matched groups (n=6). In addition, 18 unconnected samples served as controls. The specimens were subjected to accelerated corrosion by static immersion in 1% lactic acid for 1 week. The amount of metal ions ion of each test tube was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and energy dispersive spectroscopy X-ray analyses were performed pre- and post-immersion to assess corrosion at the interface. The platform-matched groups demonstrated higher ion release for vanadium, aluminium, cobalt, chrome, and molybdenum compared with the platform-switched groups (P<0.05). Titanium was the highest element to be released regardless of abutment size or connection (P<0.05). SEM images showed pitting corrosion prominent on the outer borders of the implant and abutment platform surfaces. In conclusion, implant–abutment couples underwent an active corrosion process resulting in metal ions release into the surrounding environment. The highest amount of metal ions released was recorded for the platform-matched groups, suggesting that platform-switching concept has a positive effect in reducing the levels of metal ion release from the implant–abutment couples. PMID:27357323

CFD modeling of particle dispersion and deposition coupled with particle dynamical models in a ventilated room

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Guangping; Wang, Jiasong

2017-10-01

Two dynamical models, the traditional method of moments coupled model (MCM) and Taylor-series expansion method of moments coupled model (TECM) for particle dispersion distribution and gravitation deposition are developed in three-dimensional ventilated environments. The turbulent airflow field is modeled with the renormalization group (RNG) k-ε turbulence model. The particle number concentration distribution in a ventilated room is obtained by solving the population balance equation coupled with the airflow field. The coupled dynamical models are validated using experimental data. A good agreement between the numerical and experimental results can be achieved. Both models have a similar characteristic for the spatial distribution of particle concentration. Relative to the MCM model, the TECM model presents a more close result to the experimental data. The vortex structure existed in the air flow makes a relative large concentration difference at the center region and results in a spatial non-uniformity of concentration field. With larger inlet velocity, the mixing level of particles in the room is more uniform. In general, the new dynamical models coupled with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in the current study provide a reasonable and accurate method for the temporal and spatial evolution of particles effected by the deposition and dispersion behaviors. In addition, two ventilation modes with different inlet velocities are proceeded to study the effect on the particle evolution. The results show that with the ceiling ventilation mode (CVM), the particles can be better mixed and the concentration level is also higher. On the contrast, with the side ceiling ventilation mode (SVM), the particle concentration has an obvious stratified distribution with a relative lower level and it makes a much better environment condition to the human exposure.

Noise-constrained switching times for heteroclinic computing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neves, Fabio Schittler; Voit, Maximilian; Timme, Marc

2017-03-01

Heteroclinic computing offers a novel paradigm for universal computation by collective system dynamics. In such a paradigm, input signals are encoded as complex periodic orbits approaching specific sequences of saddle states. Without inputs, the relevant states together with the heteroclinic connections between them form a network of states—the heteroclinic network. Systems of pulse-coupled oscillators or spiking neurons naturally exhibit such heteroclinic networks of saddles, thereby providing a substrate for general analog computations. Several challenges need to be resolved before it becomes possible to effectively realize heteroclinic computing in hardware. The time scales on which computations are performed crucially depend on the switching times between saddles, which in turn are jointly controlled by the system's intrinsic dynamics and the level of external and measurement noise. The nonlinear dynamics of pulse-coupled systems often strongly deviate from that of time-continuously coupled (e.g., phase-coupled) systems. The factors impacting switching times in pulse-coupled systems are still not well understood. Here we systematically investigate switching times in dependence of the levels of noise and intrinsic dissipation in the system. We specifically reveal how local responses to pulses coact with external noise. Our findings confirm that, like in time-continuous phase-coupled systems, piecewise-continuous pulse-coupled systems exhibit switching times that transiently increase exponentially with the number of switches up to some order of magnitude set by the noise level. Complementarily, we show that switching times may constitute a good predictor for the computation reliability, indicating how often an input signal must be reiterated. By characterizing switching times between two saddles in conjunction with the reliability of a computation, our results provide a first step beyond the coding of input signal identities toward a complementary coding for the intensity of those signals. The results offer insights on how future heteroclinic computing systems may operate under natural, and thus noisy, conditions.

Extraction of CP Properties of the H(125) Boson Discovered in Proton-Proton Collisions at√s = 7 and 8 TeV with the CMS Detector at the LHC

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Yi

In this thesis we build a novel analysis framework to perform the direct extraction ofall possible effective Higgs boson couplings to the neutral electroweak gauge bosonsin the H → ZZ (*) → 4 channel also referred to as the golden channel. We use analytic expressions of the full decay differential cross sections for the H → V V → 4process, and the dominant irreducible standard model q q → 4 background where¯4 = 2e2µ, 4e, 4µ. Detector effects are included through an explicit convolution ofthese analytic expressions with transfer functions that model the detector responsesas well as acceptance and efficiencymore » effects. Using the full set of decay observables, weconstruct an unbinned 8-dimensional detector level likelihood function which is continuous in the effective couplings, and includes systematics. All potential anomalouscouplings of HV V where V = Z, γ are considered, allowing for general CP even/oddadmixtures and any possible phases. We measure the CP -odd mixing between thetree-level HZZ coupling and higher order CP -odd couplings to be compatible withzero, and in the range [-0.40, 0.43], and the mixing between HZZ tree-level couplingand higher order CP -even coupling to be in the ranges [-0.66, -0.57] U [-0.15, 1.00];namely compatible with a standard model Higgs. We discuss the expected precisionin determining the various HV V couplings in future LHC runs. A powerful and at first glance surprising prediction of the analysis is that with 100-400 fb -1 , the goldenchannel will be able to start probing the couplings of the Higgs boson to diphotons inthe 4 channel. We discuss the implications and further optimization of the methodsfor the next LHC runs.« less

Partner-assisted emotional disclosure for patients with GI cancer: 8-week follow-up and processes associated with change.

PubMed

Porter, Laura S; Keefe, Francis J; Baucom, Donald H; Hurwitz, Herbert; Moser, Barry; Patterson, Emily; Kim, Hong Jin

2012-08-01

We recently reported that a partner-assisted emotional disclosure intervention for gastrointestinal cancer led to improvements in relationship quality and intimacy for couples in which the patient initially reported higher levels of holding back from discussing cancer-related concerns. The purposes of the present study were to examine outcomes at 8-week follow-up and process variables that may influence treatment effects. One hundred thirty couples were randomly assigned to either partner-assisted emotional disclosure or an education/support control condition. Participants completed measures of relationship quality, intimacy, and psychological distress before randomization, post-treatment, and 8 weeks later. Patients in the disclosure intervention completed measures of negative affect immediately following each treatment session, and their level of expressiveness during the sessions was rated by trained observers. Data were analyzed using multilevel modeling. Among couples in which the patient initially reported higher levels of holding back, the disclosure intervention led to improvements in relationship quality and intimacy that were maintained at 8-weeks follow-up. High levels of patient expressiveness during the disclosure sessions were associated with improvements in relationship quality and intimacy, and high levels of patient negative affect immediately following the sessions were associated with reductions in psychological distress at the post-test assessment. For couples in which the patient tends to hold back from discussing concerns, partner-assisted emotional disclosure is a beneficial intervention leading to improvements in relationship functioning that maintain over time. Future research is needed to examine methods of enhancing intervention effects, including encouraging patient expressiveness and negative affect during the sessions.

A Longitudinal Examination of Positive Parenting Following an Acceptance-Based Couple Intervention

PubMed Central

Morrill, Melinda Ippolito; Hawrilenko, Matt; Córdova, James V.

2015-01-01

Positive parenting practices have been shown to be essential for healthy child development, and yet have also been found to be particularly challenging for parents to enact and maintain. This paper explores an innovative approach for increasing positive parenting by targeting specific positive emotional processes within marital relationships. Couple emotional acceptance is a powerful mechanism that has repeatedly been found to improve romantic relationships, but whether these effects extend to the larger family environment is less well understood. The current longitudinal study examined the role of improved levels of acceptance in mother’s and father’s positive parenting after a couple intervention. Participants included 244 parents (122 couples) in the Marriage Checkup (MC) study, a randomized, controlled, acceptance-based, intervention study. Data indicated that both women and men experienced significantly greater felt acceptance two-weeks after the MC intervention, treatment women demonstrated greater positive parenting two weeks after the intervention, and all treatment participants’ positive parenting was better maintained than control couple’s six months later. Importantly, although mothers’ positive parenting was not influenced by different levels of felt acceptance, changes in father’s positive parenting were positively associated with changes in felt acceptance. As men felt more accepted by their wives, their levels of positive parenting changed in kind, and this effect on positive parenting was found to be mediated by felt acceptance two weeks after the MC. Overall, findings supported the potential benefits of targeting couple acceptance to generate positive cascades throughout the larger family system. PMID:26551659

Circuit-Host Coupling Induces Multifaceted Behavioral Modulations of a Gene Switch.

PubMed

Blanchard, Andrew E; Liao, Chen; Lu, Ting

2018-02-06

Quantitative modeling of gene circuits is fundamentally important to synthetic biology, as it offers the potential to transform circuit engineering from trial-and-error construction to rational design and, hence, facilitates the advance of the field. Currently, typical models regard gene circuits as isolated entities and focus only on the biochemical processes within the circuits. However, such a standard paradigm is getting challenged by increasing experimental evidence suggesting that circuits and their host are intimately connected, and their interactions can potentially impact circuit behaviors. Here we systematically examined the roles of circuit-host coupling in shaping circuit dynamics by using a self-activating gene switch as a model circuit. Through a combination of deterministic modeling, stochastic simulation, and Fokker-Planck equation formalism, we found that circuit-host coupling alters switch behaviors across multiple scales. At the single-cell level, it slows the switch dynamics in the high protein production regime and enlarges the difference between stable steady-state values. At the population level, it favors cells with low protein production through differential growth amplification. Together, the two-level coupling effects induce both quantitative and qualitative modulations of the switch, with the primary component of the effects determined by the circuit's architectural parameters. This study illustrates the complexity and importance of circuit-host coupling in modulating circuit behaviors, demonstrating the need for a new paradigm-integrated modeling of the circuit-host system-for quantitative understanding of engineered gene networks. Copyright © 2017 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electronic couplings for molecular charge transfer: Benchmarking CDFT, FODFT, and FODFTB against high-level ab initio calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kubas, Adam; Hoffmann, Felix; Heck, Alexander; Oberhofer, Harald; Elstner, Marcus; Blumberger, Jochen

2014-03-01

We introduce a database (HAB11) of electronic coupling matrix elements (Hab) for electron transfer in 11 π-conjugated organic homo-dimer cations. High-level ab inito calculations at the multireference configuration interaction MRCI+Q level of theory, n-electron valence state perturbation theory NEVPT2, and (spin-component scaled) approximate coupled cluster model (SCS)-CC2 are reported for this database to assess the performance of three DFT methods of decreasing computational cost, including constrained density functional theory (CDFT), fragment-orbital DFT (FODFT), and self-consistent charge density functional tight-binding (FODFTB). We find that the CDFT approach in combination with a modified PBE functional containing 50% Hartree-Fock exchange gives best results for absolute Hab values (mean relative unsigned error = 5.3%) and exponential distance decay constants β (4.3%). CDFT in combination with pure PBE overestimates couplings by 38.7% due to a too diffuse excess charge distribution, whereas the economic FODFT and highly cost-effective FODFTB methods underestimate couplings by 37.6% and 42.4%, respectively, due to neglect of interaction between donor and acceptor. The errors are systematic, however, and can be significantly reduced by applying a uniform scaling factor for each method. Applications to dimers outside the database, specifically rotated thiophene dimers and larger acenes up to pentacene, suggests that the same scaling procedure significantly improves the FODFT and FODFTB results for larger π-conjugated systems relevant to organic semiconductors and DNA.

Computer simulations of neural mechanisms explaining upper and lower limb excitatory neural coupling

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background When humans perform rhythmic upper and lower limb locomotor-like movements, there is an excitatory effect of upper limb exertion on lower limb muscle recruitment. To investigate potential neural mechanisms for this behavioral observation, we developed computer simulations modeling interlimb neural pathways among central pattern generators. We hypothesized that enhancement of muscle recruitment from interlimb spinal mechanisms was not sufficient to explain muscle enhancement levels observed in experimental data. Methods We used Matsuoka oscillators for the central pattern generators (CPG) and determined parameters that enhanced amplitudes of rhythmic steady state bursts. Potential mechanisms for output enhancement were excitatory and inhibitory sensory feedback gains, excitatory and inhibitory interlimb coupling gains, and coupling geometry. We first simulated the simplest case, a single CPG, and then expanded the model to have two CPGs and lastly four CPGs. In the two and four CPG models, the lower limb CPGs did not receive supraspinal input such that the only mechanisms available for enhancing output were interlimb coupling gains and sensory feedback gains. Results In a two-CPG model with inhibitory sensory feedback gains, only excitatory gains of ipsilateral flexor-extensor/extensor-flexor coupling produced reciprocal upper-lower limb bursts and enhanced output up to 26%. In a two-CPG model with excitatory sensory feedback gains, excitatory gains of contralateral flexor-flexor/extensor-extensor coupling produced reciprocal upper-lower limb bursts and enhanced output up to 100%. However, within a given excitatory sensory feedback gain, enhancement due to excitatory interlimb gains could only reach levels up to 20%. Interconnecting four CPGs to have ipsilateral flexor-extensor/extensor-flexor coupling, contralateral flexor-flexor/extensor-extensor coupling, and bilateral flexor-extensor/extensor-flexor coupling could enhance motor output up to 32%. Enhancement observed in experimental data exceeded 32%. Enhancement within this symmetrical four-CPG neural architecture was more sensitive to relatively small interlimb coupling gains. Excitatory sensory feedback gains could produce greater output amplitudes, but larger gains were required for entrainment compared to inhibitory sensory feedback gains. Conclusions Based on these simulations, symmetrical interlimb coupling can account for much, but not all of the excitatory neural coupling between upper and lower limbs during rhythmic locomotor-like movements. PMID:21143960

Performance of Frozen Density Embedding for Modeling Hole Transfer Reactions.

PubMed

Ramos, Pablo; Papadakis, Markos; Pavanello, Michele

2015-06-18

We have carried out a thorough benchmark of the frozen density-embedding (FDE) method for calculating hole transfer couplings. We have considered 10 exchange-correlation functionals, 3 nonadditive kinetic energy functionals, and 3 basis sets. Overall, we conclude that with a 7% mean relative unsigned error, the PBE and PW91 functionals coupled with the PW91k nonadditive kinetic energy functional and a TZP basis set constitute the most stable and accurate levels of theory for hole transfer coupling calculations. The FDE-ET method is found to be an excellent tool for computing diabatic couplings for hole transfer reactions.

Optical signatures of coupled quantum dots.

PubMed

Stinaff, E A; Scheibner, M; Bracker, A S; Ponomarev, I V; Korenev, V L; Ware, M E; Doty, M F; Reinecke, T L; Gammon, D

2006-02-03

An asymmetric pair of coupled InAs quantum dots is tuned into resonance by applying an electric field so that a single hole forms a coherent molecular wave function. The optical spectrum shows a rich pattern of level anticrossings and crossings that can be understood as a superposition of charge and spin configurations of the two dots. Coulomb interactions shift the molecular resonance of the optically excited state (charged exciton) with respect to the ground state (single charge), enabling light-induced coupling of the quantum dots. This result demonstrates the possibility of optically coupling quantum dots for application in quantum information processing.

Optical Signatures of Coupled Quantum Dots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stinaff, E. A.; Scheibner, M.; Bracker, A. S.; Ponomarev, I. V.; Korenev, V. L.; Ware, M. E.; Doty, M. F.; Reinecke, T. L.; Gammon, D.

2006-02-01

An asymmetric pair of coupled InAs quantum dots is tuned into resonance by applying an electric field so that a single hole forms a coherent molecular wave function. The optical spectrum shows a rich pattern of level anticrossings and crossings that can be understood as a superposition of charge and spin configurations of the two dots. Coulomb interactions shift the molecular resonance of the optically excited state (charged exciton) with respect to the ground state (single charge), enabling light-induced coupling of the quantum dots. This result demonstrates the possibility of optically coupling quantum dots for application in quantum information processing.

Enhancing the nonlinear thermoelectric response of a correlated quantum dot in the Kondo regime by asymmetrical coupling to the leads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pérez Daroca, Diego; Roura-Bas, Pablo; Aligia, Armando A.

2018-04-01

We study the low-temperature properties of the differential response of the current to a temperature gradient at finite voltage in a single-level quantum dot including electron-electron interaction, nonsymmetric couplings to the leads, and nonlinear effects. The calculated response is significantly enhanced in setups with large asymmetries between the tunnel couplings. In the investigated range of voltages and temperatures with corresponding energies up to several times the Kondo energy scale, the maximum response is enhanced nearly an order of magnitude with respect to symmetric coupling to the leads.

Antenna-Coupled Superconducting Tunnel Junctions with Single-Electron Transistor Readout for Detection of Sub-mm Radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stevenson, T. R.; Hsieh, W.-T.; Li, M. J.; Stahle, C. M.; Wollack, E. J.; Schoelkopf, R. J.; Teufel, J.; Krebs, Carolyn (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Antenna-coupled superconducting tunnel junction detectors have the potential for photon-counting sensitivity at sub-mm wavelengths. The device consists of an antenna structure to couple radiation into a small superconducting volume and cause quasiparticle excitations, and a single-electron transistor to measure currents through tunnel junction contacts to the absorber volume. We will describe optimization of device parameters, and recent results on fabrication techniques for producing devices with high yield for detector arrays. We will also present modeling of expected saturation power levels, antenna coupling, and rf multiplexing schemes.

Actuation of an Inertia-Coupled Rimless Wheel Model across Level Ground

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weeks, Seth Caleb

The inertia-coupled rimless wheel model is a passive dynamic walking device which is theoretically capable of achieving highly efficient motion with no energy losses. Under non-ideal circumstances, energy losses due to air drag require the use of actuation to maintain stable motions. The Actuated Inertia-coupled Rimless Wheel Across Flat Terrain (AIRWAFT) model provides actuation to an inertia-coupled rimless wheel model across level ground to compensate for energy losses by applying hip-torque between the frame and inertia wheel via a motor. Two methods of defining the open-loop actuation are presented. Position control defines the relative position of the drum relative to the frame. Torque control specifies the amount of torque between the frame and the drum. The performance of the model was evaluated with respect to changes in various geometrical and control parameters and initial conditions. This parameter study led to the discovery of a stable, periodic motion with a cost of transport of 0.33.

Effects of Couple Interactions and Relationship Quality on Plasma Oxytocin and Cardiovascular Reactivity: Empirical Findings and Methodological Considerations

PubMed Central

Smith, Timothy W.; Uchino, Bert N.; MacKenzie, Justin; Hicks, Angela; Campo, Rebecca A.; Reblin, Maija; Grewen, Karen; Amico, Janet A.; Light, Kathleen C.

2016-01-01

Cardiovascular reactivity is a potential mechanism underlying associations of close relationship quality with cardiovascular disease. Two models describe oxytocin as another mechanism. The “calm and connect” model posits an association between positive relationship experiences and oxytocin levels and responses, whereas the “tend and befriend” model emphasizes the effects of negative relationship experiences in evoking oxytocin release. In this study of 180 younger couples, relationship quality had a small, marginally significant inverse association with plasma oxytocin levels, and neither positive nor negative couple interactions evoked change in plasma oxytocin. Negative couple interactions evoked significant cardiovascular reactivity, especially among women. Hence, in the largest study of these issues to date, there was little support for key tenets of the “calm and connect” model, and only very modest support for the ”tend and befriend” model. However, findings were consistent with the view that CVR contributes to the effects of relationship difficulties on health. PMID:22543270

Quantum synchronization of many coupled atoms for an ultranarrow linewidth laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Peiru; Xu, Minghui; Tieri, David; Zhu, Bihui; Rey, Ana Maria; Hazzard, Kaden; Holland, Murray

2014-05-01

We theoretically investigate the effect of quantum synchronization on many coupled two-level atoms acting as high quality oscillators. We show that quantum synchronization - the spontaneous alignment of the phase (of the two-level superposition) between different atoms - provides a potential approach to produce robust atomic coherences and coherent light with ultranarrow linewidth and extreme phase stability. The atoms may be coupled either through their direct dipole-dipole interactions or, as in a superradiant laser, through an optical cavity. We develop a variety of analytic and computational approaches for this problem, including exact open quantum system methods for small systems, semiclassical theories, and approaches that make use of the permutation symmetry of identically coupled ensembles. We investigate the first and second order coherence properties of both the optical and atomic degrees of freedom. We study synchronization in both the steady-state, as well as during the dynamically applied pulse sequences of Rabi and Ramsey interferometry. This work was supported by the DARPA QuASAR program, the NSF, and NIST.

Teradiode's high brightness semiconductor lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Robin K.; Chann, Bien; Burgess, James; Lochman, Bryan; Zhou, Wang; Cruz, Mike; Cook, Rob; Dugmore, Dan; Shattuck, Jeff; Tayebati, Parviz

2016-03-01

TeraDiode is manufacturing multi-kW-class ultra-high brightness fiber-coupled direct diode lasers for industrial applications. A fiber-coupled direct diode laser with a power level of 4,680 W from a 100 μm core diameter, <0.08 numerical aperture (NA) output fiber at a single center wavelength was demonstrated. Our TeraBlade industrial platform achieves world-record brightness levels for direct diode lasers. The fiber-coupled output corresponds to a Beam Parameter Product (BPP) of 3.5 mm-mrad and is the lowest BPP multi-kW-class direct diode laser yet reported. This laser is suitable for industrial materials processing applications, including sheet metal cutting and welding. This 4-kW fiber-coupled direct diode laser has comparable brightness to that of industrial fiber lasers and CO2 lasers, and is over 10x brighter than state-of-the-art direct diode lasers. We have also demonstrated novel high peak power lasers and high brightness Mid-Infrared Lasers.

Education-based health inequalities in 18,000 Norwegian couples: the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT)

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Education-based inequalities in health are well established, but they are usually studied from an individual perspective. However, many individuals are part of a couple. We studied education-based health inequalities from the perspective of couples where indicators of health were measured by subjective health, anxiety and depression. Methods A sample of 35,980 women and men (17,990 couples) was derived from the Norwegian Nord-Trøndelag Health Study 1995–97 (HUNT 2). Educational data and family identification numbers were obtained from Statistics Norway. The dependent variables were subjective health (four-integer scale), anxiety (21-integer scale) and depression (21-integer scale), which were captured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The dependent variables were rescaled from 0 to 100 where 100 was the worst score. Cross-sectional analyses were performed using two-level linear random effect regression models. Results The variance attributable to the couple level was 42% for education, 16% for subjective health, 19% for anxiety and 25% for depression. A one-year increase in education relative to that of one’s partner was associated with an improvement of 0.6 scale points (95% confidence interval = 0.5–0.8) in the subjective health score (within-couple coefficient). A one-year increase in a couple’s average education was associated with an improvement of 1.7 scale points (95% confidence interval = 1.6–1.8) in the subjective health score (between-couple coefficient). There were no education-based differences in the anxiety or depression scores when partners were compared, whereas there were substantial education-based differences between couples in all three outcome measures. Conclusions We found considerable clustering of education and health within couples, which highlighted the importance of the family environment. Our results support previous studies that report the mutual effects of spouses on education-based inequalities in health, suggesting that couples develop their socioeconomic position together. PMID:23157803

Heterobimetallic porphyrin complexes displaying triple dynamics: coupled metal motions controlled by constitutional evolution.

PubMed

Le Gac, Stéphane; Fusaro, Luca; Roisnel, Thierry; Boitrel, Bernard

2014-05-07

A bis-strap porphyrin ligand (1), with an overhanging carboxylic acid group on each side of the macrocycle, has been investigated toward the formation of dynamic libraries of bimetallic complexes with Hg(II), Cd(II), and Pb(II). Highly heteroselective metalation processes occurred in the presence of Pb(II), with Hg(II) or Cd(II) bound out-of-plane to the N-core and "PbOAc" bound to a carboxylate group of a strap on the opposite side. The resulting complexes, 1(Hg)·PbOAc and 1(Cd)·PbOAc, display three levels of dynamics. The first is strap-level (interactional dynamics), where the PbOAc moiety swings between the left and right side of the strap owing to a second sphere of coordination with lateral amide functions. The second is ligand-level (motional dynamics), where 1(Hg)·PbOAc and 1(Cd)·PbOAc exist as two degenerate states in equilibrium controlled by a chemical effector (AcO(-)). The process corresponds to a double translocation of the metal ions according to an intramolecular migration of Hg(II) or Cd(II) through the N-core, oscillating between the two equivalent overhanging carbonyl groups, coupled to an intermolecular pathway for PbOAc exchanging between the two equivalent overhanging carboxylate groups (N-core(up) ⇆ N-core(down) coupled to strap(down) ⇆ strap(up), i.e., coupled motion #1 in the abstract graphic). The third is library-level (constitutional dynamics), where a dynamic constitutional evolution of the system was achieved by the successive addition of two chemical effectors (DMAP and then AcO(-)). It allowed shifting equilibrium forward and backward between 1(Hg)·PbOAc and the corresponding homobimetallic complexes 1(Hg2)·DMAP and 1(Pb)·PbOAc. The latter displays a different ligand-level dynamics, in the form of an intraligand coupled migration of the Pb(II) ions (N-core(up) ⇆ strap(up) coupled to strap(down) ⇆ N-core(down), i.e., coupled motion #2 in the abstract graphic). In addition, the neutral "bridged" complexes 1HgPb and 1CdPb, with the metal ions on opposite sides both bound to the N-core and to a carboxylate of a strap, were structurally characterized. These results establish an unprecedented approach in supramolecular coordination chemistry, by considering the reversible interaction of a metal ion with the porphyrin N-core as a new source of self-organization processes. This work should provide new inspirations for the design of innovative adaptative materials and devices.

Kis antitoxin couples plasmid R1 replication and parD (kis,kid) maintenance modules.

PubMed

López-Villarejo, Juan; Diago-Navarro, Elizabeth; Hernández-Arriaga, Ana María; Díaz-Orejas, Ramón

2012-03-01

The coupling between the replication and parD (kis, kid) maintenance modules of R1 has been revisited here by the isolation of a significant collection of conditional replication mutants in the pKN1562 mini-R1 plasmid, and in its derivative, pJLV01, specifically affected in the RNase activity of the Kid toxin. This new analysis aims to identify key factors in this coupling. For this purpose we have quantified and characterized the restriction introduced by parD to isolate conditional replication mutants of this plasmid, a signature of the modular coupling. This restriction depends on the RNase activity of the Kid toxin and it is relieved by either over-expression of the Kis antitoxin or by preventing its degradation by Lon and ClpAP proteases. Based on these data and on the correlation between copy numbers and parD transcriptional levels obtained in the different mutants, it is proposed that a reduction of Kis antitoxin levels in response to inefficient plasmid replication is the key factor for coupling plasmid replication and parD modules. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The AMP-activated protein kinase AAK-2 links energy levels and insulin-like signals to lifespan in C. elegans

PubMed Central

Apfeld, Javier; O'Connor, Greg; McDonagh, Tom; DiStefano, Peter S.; Curtis, Rory

2004-01-01

Although limiting energy availability extends lifespan in many organisms, it is not understood how lifespan is coupled to energy levels. We find that the AMP:ATP ratio, a measure of energy levels, increases with age in Caenorhabditis elegans and can be used to predict life expectancy. The C. elegans AMP-activated protein kinase α subunit AAK-2 is activated by AMP and functions to extend lifespan. In addition, either an environmental stressor that increases the AMP:ATP ratio or mutations that lower insulin-like signaling extend lifespan in an aak-2-dependent manner. Thus, AAK-2 is a sensor that couples lifespan to information about energy levels and insulin-like signals. PMID:15574588

Periodicities in solar wind-magnetosphere coupling functions and geomagnetic activity during the past solar cycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andriyas, T.; Andriyas, S.

2017-09-01

In this paper, we study the solar-terrestrial relation through the wavelet analysis. We report periodicities common between multiple solar wind coupling functions and geomagnetic indices during five solar cycles and also and the strength of this correspondence. The Dst (found to be most predictable in Newell et al., J. Geophys. Res. Space Phys. 112(A1):A01206, 2007) and AL (least predictable in Newell et al., J. Geophys. Res. Space Phys. 112(A1):A01206, 2007) indices are used for this purpose. During the years 1966-2016 (which includes five solar cycles 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24), prominent periodicities ≤720 days with power above 95% confidence level were found to occur around 27, 182, 385, and 648 days in the Dst index while those in the AL index were found in bands around 27, 187, and 472 days. Ten solar wind coupling functions were then used to find periodicities common with the indices. All the coupling functions had significant power in bands centered around 27, 280, and 648 days while powers in fluctuations around 182, 385, and 472 days were only found in some coupling functions. All the drivers and their variants had power above the significant level in the 280-288 days band, which was absent in the Dst and AL indices. The normalized scale averaged spectral power around the common periods in the coupling functions and the indices indicated that the coupling functions most correlated with the Dst index were the Newell (27 and 385 days), Wygant (182 days), and Scurry-Russell and Boynton (648 days) functions. An absence of common power between the coupling functions and the Dst index around the annual periodicity was noted during the even solar cycles. A similar analysis for the AL index indicated that Newell (27 days), Rectified (187 days), and Boynton (472 days) were the most correlated functions. It was also found that the correlation numbers were relatively weaker for the AL index, specially for the 187 day periodicity. It is concluded that as the two indices respond to solar wind forcing with varying levels of strength at various prominent scales and the coupling function used, the response might be dependent on the scale (days or months or years) of interest at which the solar wind driving is to be predicted.

Aeromechanical stability of helicopters with composite rotor blades in forward flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Edward C.; Chopra, Inderjit

1992-01-01

The aeromechanical stability, including air resonance in hover, air resonance in forward flight, and ground resonance, of a helicopter with elastically tailored composite rotor blades is investigated. Five soft-inplane hingeless rotor configurations, featuring elastic pitch-lag, pitch-flap and extension-torsion couplings, are analyzed. Elastic couplings introduced through tailored composite blade spars can have a powerful effect on both air and ground resonance behavior. Elastic pitch-flap couplings (positive and negative) strongly affect body, rotor and dynamic inflow modes. Air resonance stability is diminished by elastic pitch-flap couplings in hover and forward flight. Negative pitch-lag elastic coupling has a stabilizing effect on the regressive lag mode in hover and forward flight. The negative pitch-lag coupling has a detrimental effect on ground resonance stability. Extension-torsion elastic coupling (blade pitch decreases due to tension) decreases regressive lag mode stability in both airborne and ground contact conditions. Increasing thrust levels has a beneficial influence on ground resonance stability for rotors with pitch-flap and extension-torsion coupling and is only marginally effective in improving stability of rotors with pitch-lag coupling.

Air and ground resonance of helicopters with elastically tailored composite rotor blades

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Edward C.; Chopra, Inderjit

1993-01-01

The aeromechanical stability, including air resonance in hover, air resonance in forward flight, and ground resonance, of a helicopter with elastically tailored composite rotor blades is investigated. Five soft-inplane hingeless rotor configurations, featuring elastic pitch-lag, pitch-flap and extension-torsion couplings, are analyzed. Elastic couplings introduced through tailored composite blade spars can have a powerful effect on both air and ground resonance behavior. Elastic pitch-flap couplings (positive and negative) strongly affect body, rotor and dynamic inflow modes. Air resonance stability is diminished by elastic pitch-flap couplings in hover and forwrad flight. Negative pitch-lag elastic coupling has a stabilizing effect on the regressive lag mode in hover and forward flight. The negative pitch-lag coupling has a detrimental effect on ground resonance stability. Extension-torsion elastic coupling (blade pitch decreases due to tension) decreases regressive lag mode stability in both airborne and ground contact conditions. Increasing thrust levels has a beneficial influence on ground resonance stability for rotors with pitch-flap and extension-torsion coupling and is only marginally effective in improving stability of rotors with pitch-lag coupling.

Handling Qualities of Model Reference Adaptive Controllers with Varying Complexity for Pitch-Roll Coupled Failures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schaefer, Jacob; Hanson, Curt; Johnson, Marcus A.; Nguyen, Nhan

2011-01-01

Three model reference adaptive controllers (MRAC) with varying levels of complexity were evaluated on a high performance jet aircraft and compared along with a baseline nonlinear dynamic inversion controller. The handling qualities and performance of the controllers were examined during failure conditions that induce coupling between the pitch and roll axes. Results from flight tests showed with a roll to pitch input coupling failure, the handling qualities went from Level 2 with the baseline controller to Level 1 with the most complex MRAC tested. A failure scenario with the left stabilator frozen also showed improvement with the MRAC. Improvement in performance and handling qualities was generally seen as complexity was incrementally added; however, added complexity usually corresponds to increased verification and validation effort required for certification. The tradeoff between complexity and performance is thus important to a controls system designer when implementing an adaptive controller on an aircraft. This paper investigates this relation through flight testing of several controllers of vary complexity.

Coupling structures for out-of-plane coupling in optical PCBs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hendrickx, N.; Van Erps, J.; Bosman, E.; Thienpont, H.; Van Daele, P.

2008-04-01

Coupling structures are critical building blocks that have a big influence on the performance of board-level optical interconnections. 45° micro-mirrors deflect the light beam over 90° and are used for out-of-plane coupling in single layer structures and out-of-plane and inter-plane coupling in multilayer structures. Two different approaches are being presented: a micro-mirror that is directly integrated with the multimode waveguides and a discrete coupling element that can be plugged into a cavity in the optical layer. The advantage of the integrated micro-mirror is the high achievable alignment accuracy. The discrete couplers on the other hand have the advantage that they can be characterized and measured prior to the insertion into the optical layer. Both mirror configurations are discussed and the performance is evaluated at wavelength 850nm.

Sexual Interaction in Nonclinical Couples.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woody, Jane D.; D'Souza, Henry J.

1997-01-01

Reports on the sexual functioning and interaction of 58 nonclinical heterosexual couples as measured by the Sexual Interaction System Scale (SISS). On all five SISS factors, the nonclinical sample scored significantly better than persons in therapy for sexual dysfunction; they also reported satisfactory relationship adjustment and high levels of…

Projective Identification in Common Couple Dances.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Middelberg, Carol V.

2001-01-01

Integrates the object relations concept of projective identification and the systemic concept of marital dances to develop a more powerful model for working with more difficult and distressed couples. Suggests how object relations techniques can be used to interrupt projective identifications and resolve conflict on intrapsychic level so the…

Enhancing optical nonreciprocity by an atomic ensemble in two coupled cavities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, L. N.; Wang, Z. H.; Li, Yong

2018-05-01

We study the optical nonreciprocal propagation in an optical molecule of two coupled cavities with one of them interacting with a two-level atomic ensemble. The effect of increasing the number of atoms on the optical isolation ratio of the system is studied. We demonstrate that the significant nonlinearity supplied by the coupling of the atomic ensemble with the cavity leads to the realization of greatly-enhanced optical nonreciprocity compared with the case of single atom.

Sensitivity of measurement-based purification processes to inner interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Militello, Benedetto; Napoli, Anna

2018-02-01

The sensitivity of a repeated measurement-based purification scheme to additional undesired couplings is analyzed, focusing on the very simple and archetypical system consisting of two two-level systems interacting with a repeatedly measured one. Several regimes are considered and in the strong coupling limit (i.e., when the coupling constant of the undesired interaction is very large) the occurrence of a quantum Zeno effect is proven to dramatically jeopardize the efficiency of the purification process.

Negative index of refraction in a four-level system with magnetoelectric cross coupling and local field corrections

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bello, F.

2011-07-15

This research focuses on a coherently driven four-level atomic medium with the aim of inducing a negative index of refraction while taking into consideration local field corrections as well as magnetoelectric cross coupling (i.e.,chirality) within the material's response functions. Two control fields are used to render the medium transparent for a probe field which simultaneously couples to an electric and a magnetic dipole transition, thus allowing one to test the permittivity and permeability of the material at the same time. Numerical simulations show that a negative index of refraction with low absorption can be obtained for a range of probemore » detunings while depending on number density and the ratio between the intensities of the control fields.« less

Coherent destruction of tunneling in chaotic microcavities via three-state anti-crossings

PubMed Central

Song, Qinghai; Gu, Zhiyuan; Liu, Shuai; Xiao, Shumin

2014-01-01

Coherent destruction of tunneling (CDT) has been one seminal result of quantum dynamics control. Traditionally, CDT is understood as destructive interference between two intermediate transition paths near the level crossing. CDT near the level anti-crossings, especially the “locking”, has not been thoroughly explored so far. Taking chaotic microcavity as an example, here we study the inhibition of the tunneling via the strong couplings of three resonances. While the tunneling rate is only slightly affected by each strong coupling between two modes, the destructive interference between two strong couplings can dramatically improve the inhibition of the tunneling. A “locking” point, where dynamical tunneling is completely suppressed, has even been observed. We believe our finding will shed light on researches on micro- & nano-photonics. PMID:24781881

Attitude similarity and familiarity and their links to mental health: An examination of potential interpersonal mediators.

PubMed

Moore, Shannon M; Uchino, Bert N; Baucom, Brian R W; Behrends, Arwen A; Sanbonmatsu, David

2017-01-01

Similarity and familiarity with partner's attitudes are linked to positive relationship outcomes, while interpersonal variables have been linked to mental health. Using multilevel models (MLMs), we modeled the associations between these attitudinal variables and mental health outcomes in 74 married couples. We found that higher levels of attitude similarity in couples were linked to lower depression, while higher levels of attitude familiarity in couples were associated with greater satisfaction with life. Mediational analyses indicated marital satisfaction and interpersonal stress mediated the link between attitude similarity and depression. Marital satisfaction also mediated the link between familiarity and satisfaction with life. This study is the first linking attitude familiarity to mental health and provides evidence that familiarity and similarity have mental health effects partly due to their interpersonal consequences.

Early disrupted neurovascular coupling and changed event level hemodynamic response function in type 2 diabetes: an fMRI study.

PubMed

Duarte, João V; Pereira, João M S; Quendera, Bruno; Raimundo, Miguel; Moreno, Carolina; Gomes, Leonor; Carrilho, Francisco; Castelo-Branco, Miguel

2015-10-01

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients develop vascular complications and have increased risk for neurophysiological impairment. Vascular pathophysiology may alter the blood flow regulation in cerebral microvasculature, affecting neurovascular coupling. Reduced fMRI signal can result from decreased neuronal activation or disrupted neurovascular coupling. The uncertainty about pathophysiological mechanisms (neurodegenerative, vascular, or both) underlying brain function impairments remains. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated if the hemodynamic response function (HRF) in lesion-free brains of patients is altered by measuring BOLD (Blood Oxygenation Level-Dependent) response to visual motion stimuli. We used a standard block design to examine the BOLD response and an event-related deconvolution approach. Importantly, the latter allowed for the first time to directly extract the true shape of HRF without any assumption and probe neurovascular coupling, using performance-matched stimuli. We discovered a change in HRF in early stages of diabetes. T2DM patients show significantly different fMRI response profiles. Our visual paradigm therefore demonstrated impaired neurovascular coupling in intact brain tissue. This implies that functional studies in T2DM require the definition of HRF, only achievable with deconvolution in event-related experiments. Further investigation of the mechanisms underlying impaired neurovascular coupling is needed to understand and potentially prevent the progression of brain function decrements in diabetes.

Direct observation of methyl rotor and vib-rotor states of S0 toluene: a revised torsional barrier due to torsion-vibration coupling.

PubMed

Gascooke, Jason R; Virgo, Edwina A; Lawrance, Warren D

2015-01-14

We report a two dimensional, laser induced fluorescence study of the lowest 345 cm(-1) region of S0 toluene. Methyl rotor levels of 00 up to m = 6 and of 201 up to m = 4 are observed. The rotor levels of 00 and 201 have quite different energy spacings that are well fit by a model that includes strong torsion-vibration coupling between them. The model requires that the rotor barrier height be revised from -4.84 cm(-1) (methyl hydrogens in a staggered conformation) to +1.57 cm(-1) (eclipsed conformation). However, the 3a2″ state lies below the 3a1″ state as expected for a staggered conformation due to energy shifts associated with the torsion-vibration coupling. It is shown that the rotor wave-functions exhibit little localization at the torsional energy minima. The variation in the m = 0 wavefunction probability distribution with torsional angle is shown to be very similar for the previously accepted negative V6 value and the torsion-vibration coupling model as this coupling shifts the phase of the wavefunction by 30° compared with its phase for V6 alone. The presence of a strong Δυ = ± 1 torsion-vibration coupling involving the lowest frequency vibrational mode provides a potential pathway for rapid intramolecular vibrational energy redistribution at higher energies.

Promotion of couples' voluntary counselling and testing for HIV through influential networks in two African capital cities.

PubMed

Allen, Susan; Karita, Etienne; Chomba, Elwyn; Roth, David L; Telfair, Joseph; Zulu, Isaac; Clark, Leslie; Kancheya, Nzali; Conkling, Martha; Stephenson, Rob; Bekan, Brigitte; Kimbrell, Katherine; Dunham, Steven; Henderson, Faith; Sinkala, Moses; Carael, Michel; Haworth, Alan

2007-12-11

Most new HIV infections in Africa are acquired from cohabiting heterosexual partners. Couples' Voluntary Counselling and Testing (CVCT) is an effective prevention strategy for this group. We present our experience with a community-based program for the promotion of CVCT in Kigali, Rwanda and Lusaka, Zambia. Influence Network Agents (INAs) from the health, religious, non-governmental, and private sectors were trained to invite couples for CVCT. Predictors of successful promotion were identified using a multi-level hierarchical analysis. In 4 months, 9,900 invitations were distributed by 61 INAs, with 1,411 (14.3%) couples requesting CVCT. INAs in Rwanda distributed fewer invitations (2,680 vs. 7,220) and had higher response rates (26.9% vs. 9.6%), than INAs in Zambia. Context of the invitation event, including a discreet location such as the INA's home (OR 3.3-3.4), delivery of the invitation to both partners in the couple (OR 1.6-1.7) or to someone known to the INA (OR 1.7-1.8), and use of public endorsement (OR 1.7-1.8) were stronger predictors of success than INA or couple-level characteristics. Predictors of successful CVCT promotion included strategies that can be easily implemented in Africa. As new resources become available for Africans with HIV, CVCT should be broadly implemented as a point of entry for prevention, care and support.

Equilibrium charge fluctuations of a charge detector and its effect on a nearby quantum dot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruiz-Tijerina, David; Vernek, Edson; Ulloa, Sergio

2014-03-01

We study the Kondo state of a spin-1/2 quantum dot (QD), in close proximity to a quantum point contact (QPC) charge detector near the conductance regime of the 0.7 anomaly. The electrostatic coupling between the QD and QPC introduces a remote gate on the QD level, which varies with the QPC gate voltage. Furthermore, models for the 0.7 anomaly [Y. Meir et al., PRL 89,196802(2002)] suggest that the QPC lodges a Kondo-screened level with charge-correlated hybridization, which may be also affected by capacitive coupling to the QD, giving rise to a competition between the two Kondo ground states. We model the QD-QPC system as two capacitively-coupled Kondo impurities, and explore the zero-bias transport of both the QD and the QPC for different local gate voltages and coupling strengths, using the numerical renormalization group and variational methods. We find that the capacitive coupling produces a remote gating effect, non-monotonic in the gate voltages, which reduces the gate voltage window for Kondo screening in either impurity, and which can also drive a quantum phase transition out of the Kondo regime. Our study is carried out for intermediate coupling strengths, and as such is highly relevant to experiments; particularly, to recent studies of decoherence effects on QDs. Supported by MWN/CIAM and NSF PIRE.

The impact of mixed, hope and forgiveness-focused marital counselling on interpersonal cognitive distortions of couples filing for divorce.

PubMed

Navidian, A; Bahari, F

2014-09-01

Divorce and conflict are overlapping processes. Previous findings suggest that spirituality-related interventions in mental health nursing may play a significant role in reducing the level and amount of conflict. We examined the effects of hope and forgiveness-focused marital counselling and a combination of the two intervention types on interpersonal cognitive distortions of couples filing for divorce in Isfahan, Iran. We conducted a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test and post-test design. Of 440 couples referred to the Crisis Intervention Center undergoing pre-divorce counselling, 60 were randomly assigned to four groups: hope-focused, forgiveness-focused, mixed and control. Data were gathered using the Interpersonal Cognitive Distortions Scale and analysed using the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney's U and Wilcoxon tests. Hope- and forgiveness-focused interventions did not have a significant effect on the total number of interpersonal cognitive distortions in comparison with the control group. However, the mixed intervention significantly reduced irrational expectations and interpersonal rejection among couples. Combining hope- and forgiveness-focused interventions can be used to decrease irrational marital beliefs among couples. In addition, rating the level of conflict among couples is important for determining the type of intervention that should be used by mental health nurses (psycho-educational or therapeutic). © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Cognitive-behavioral couple therapy.

PubMed

Epstein, Norman B; Zheng, Le

2017-02-01

This article describes how cognitive-behavioral couple therapy (CBCT) provides a good fit for intervening with a range of stressors that couples experience from within and outside their relationship. It takes an ecological perspective in which a couple is influenced by multiple systemic levels. We provide an overview of assessment and intervention strategies used to modify negative behavioral interaction patterns, inappropriate or distorted cognitions, and problems with the experience and regulation of emotions. Next, we describe how CBCT can assist couples in coping with stressors involving (a) a partner's psychological disorder (e.g. depression), (b) physical health problems (e.g. cancer), (c) external stressors (e.g. financial strain), and (d) severe relational problems (e.g. partner aggression). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Single-photon driven high-order sideband transitions in an ultrastrongly coupled circuit quantum electrodynamics system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Tiefu; Chen, Zhen; Wang, Yimin; Tian, Lin; Qiu, Yueyin; Inomata, Kunihiro; Yoshihara, Fumiki; Han, Siyuan; Nori, Franco; Tsai, Jaw-Shen; You, J. Q.

We report the experimental observation of high-order sideband transitions at the single-photon level in a quantum circuit system of a flux qubit ultrastrongly coupled to a coplanar waveguide resonator. With the coupling strength reaching 10 % of the resonator's fundamental frequency, we obtain clear signatures of higher-order red- and first-order blue-sideband transitions. These transitions are owing to the ultrastrong Rabi coupling, instead of the driving power. Our observation advances the understanding of ultrastrongly-coupled systems and paves the way to study high-order processes in the quantum Rabi model. This work is supported by the National Basic Research Program of China and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Line splitting and modified atomic decay of atoms coupled with N quantized cavity modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yifu

1992-05-01

We study the interaction of a two-level atom with N non-degenerate quantized cavity modes including dissipations from atomic decay and cavity damps. In the strong coupling regime, the absorption or emission spectrum of weakly excited atom-cavity system possesses N + 1 spectral peaks whose linewidths are the weighted averages of atomic and cavity linewidths. The coupled system shows subnatural (supernatural) atomic decay behavior if the photon loss rates from the N cavity modes are smaller (larger) than the atomic decay rate. If N cavity modes are degenerate, they can be treated effectively as a single mode. In addition, we present numerical calculations for N = 2 to characterize the system evolution from the weak coupling to strong coupling limits.

Theories of quantum dissipation and nonlinear coupling bath descriptors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Rui-Xue; Liu, Yang; Zhang, Hou-Dao; Yan, YiJing

2018-03-01

The quest of an exact and nonperturbative treatment of quantum dissipation in nonlinear coupling environments remains in general an intractable task. In this work, we address the key issues toward the solutions to the lowest nonlinear environment, a harmonic bath coupled both linearly and quadratically with an arbitrary system. To determine the bath coupling descriptors, we propose a physical mapping scheme, together with the prescription reference invariance requirement. We then adopt a recently developed dissipaton equation of motion theory [R. X. Xu et al., Chin. J. Chem. Phys. 30, 395 (2017)], with the underlying statistical quasi-particle ("dissipaton") algebra being extended to the quadratic bath coupling. We report the numerical results on a two-level system dynamics and absorption and emission line shapes.

Regional sea level variability in a high-resolution global coupled climate model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palko, D.; Kirtman, B. P.

2016-12-01

The prediction of trends at regional scales is essential in order to adapt to and prepare for the effects of climate change. However, GCMs are unable to make reliable predictions at regional scales. The prediction of local sea level trends is particularly critical. The main goal of this research is to utilize high-resolution (HR) (0.1° resolution in the ocean) coupled model runs of CCSM4 to analyze regional sea surface height (SSH) trends. Unlike typical, lower resolution (1.0°) GCM runs these HR runs resolve features in the ocean, like the Gulf Stream, which may have a large effect on regional sea level. We characterize the variability of regional SSH along the Atlantic coast of the US using tide gauge observations along with fixed radiative forcing runs of CCSM4 and HR interactive ensemble runs. The interactive ensemble couples an ensemble mean atmosphere with a single ocean realization. This coupling results in a 30% decrease in the strength of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation; therefore, the HR interactive ensemble is analogous to a HR hosing experiment. By characterizing the variability in these high-resolution GCM runs and observations we seek to understand what processes influence coastal SSH along the Eastern Coast of the United States and better predict future SLR.

Dam-Break Flooding and Structural Damage in a Residential Neighborhood: Performance of a coupled hydrodynamic-damage model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanders, B. F.; Gallegos, H. A.; Schubert, J. E.

2011-12-01

The Baldwin Hills dam-break flood and associated structural damage is investigated in this study. The flood caused high velocity flows exceeding 5 m/s which destroyed 41 wood-framed residential structures, 16 of which were completed washed out. Damage is predicted by coupling a calibrated hydrodynamic flood model based on the shallow-water equations to structural damage models. The hydrodynamic and damage models are two-way coupled so building failure is predicted upon exceedance of a hydraulic intensity parameter, which in turn triggers a localized reduction in flow resistance which affects flood intensity predictions. Several established damage models and damage correlations reported in the literature are tested to evaluate the predictive skill for two damage states defined by destruction (Level 2) and washout (Level 3). Results show that high-velocity structural damage can be predicted with a remarkable level of skill using established damage models, but only with two-way coupling of the hydrodynamic and damage models. In contrast, when structural failure predictions have no influence on flow predictions, there is a significant reduction in predictive skill. Force-based damage models compare well with a subset of the damage models which were devised for similar types of structures. Implications for emergency planning and preparedness as well as monetary damage estimation are discussed.

Influence of post-stroke spasticity on EMG-force coupling and force steadiness in biceps brachii.

PubMed

Carlyle, Jennilee K; Mochizuki, George

2018-02-01

Individuals with spasticity after stroke experience a decrease in force steadiness which can impact function. Alterations in the strength of EMG-force coupling may contribute to the reduction in force steadiness observed in spasticity. The aim was to determine the extent to which force steadiness and EMG-force coupling is affected by post-stroke spasticity. This cross-sectional study involved individuals with upper limb spasticity after stroke. Participants were required to generate and maintain isometric contractions of the elbow flexors at varying force levels. Coefficient of variation of force, absolute force, EMG-force cross-correlation function peak and peak latency was measured from both limbs with surface electromyography and isometric dynamometry. Statistically significant differences were observed between the affected and less affected limbs for all outcome measures. Significant main effects of force level were also observed. Force steadiness was not statistically significantly correlated with EMG-force coupling; however, both force steadiness and absolute force were associated with the level of impairment as measured by the Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment Scale. Spasticity after stroke uncouples the relationship between EMG and force and is associated with reduced force steadiness during isometric contractions; however, these features of control are not associated in individuals with spasticity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Intrapersonal, interpersonal, and contextual risk factors for overprovision of partner support in marriage.

PubMed

Brock, Rebecca L; Lawrence, Erika

2014-02-01

Recent research indicates that receiving too much support from one's spouse (i.e., overprovision of support) is actually more detrimental to marriage than not receiving enough support. The principal goal of the present study was to develop a novel framework for explaining the pathways through which couples experience overprovision of support in their marriages. Intrapersonal factors (anxious and avoidant attachment), interpersonal factors (conflict management and emotional intimacy), and contextual factors (stress originating outside of the marriage) were assessed during the transition into marriage as potential risk factors for experiencing higher levels of support overprovision during the first 5 years of marriage in a sample of 103 couples using growth curve analytic techniques. To the extent that (a) husbands were higher in avoidant attachment, (b) husbands reported greater chronic role strain, and (c) couples had lower levels of emotional intimacy, support overprovision was greater for both husbands and wives. In addition, emotional intimacy (lower levels) was a partial pathway through which husband avoidant attachment contributed to support overprovision. Finally, factors placing couples at risk for support overprovision in their marriages appear to be distinct from those increasing the risk for support underprovision. The potential for results to inform contemporary marital theories and marital preparation programs is discussed.

Couple Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Pilot Results From U.S. Military Veterans and Their Partners.

PubMed

Schumm, Jeremiah A; Monson, Candice M; O'Farrell, Timothy J; Gustin, Nancy G; Chard, Kathleen M

2015-06-01

We studied 13 U.S. male military veterans and their female partners who consented to participate in an uncontrolled trial of couple treatment for alcohol use disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder (CTAP). CTAP is a 15-session, manualized therapy, integrating behavioral couples therapy for alcohol use disorder (AUD) with cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Due to ineligibility (n = 1) and attrition (n = 3), 9 couples completed the study, and 7 completed 12 or more sessions. There were 8 veterans who showed clinically reliable pre- to posttreatment reduction of PTSD outcomes. There were also significant group-level reductions in clinician-, veteran-, and partner-rated PTSD symptoms (d = 0.94 to 1.71). Most veterans showed clinically reliable reductions in percentage days of heavy drinking. Group-level reduction in veterans' percentage days of heavy drinking was significant (d = 1.01). There were 4 veterans and 3 partners with clinically reliable reductions in depression, and group-level change was significant for veterans (d = 0.93) and partners (d = 1.06). On relationship satisfaction, 3 veterans and 4 partners had reliable improvements, and 2 veterans and 1 partner had reliable deterioration. Group-level findings were nonsignificant for veteran relationship satisfaction (d = 0.26) and for partners (d = 0.52). These findings indicate that CTAP may be a promising intervention for individuals with comorbid PTSD and AUD who have relationship partners. Copyright © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., A Wiley Company.

Why do even satisfied newlyweds eventually go on to divorce?

PubMed

Lavner, Justin A; Bradbury, Thomas N

2012-02-01

Although divorce typically follows an extended period of unhappiness that begins early in marriage, some couples who are very happy throughout the first several years of marriage will also go on to divorce. This study aimed to identify risk factors early in marriage that distinguish initially satisfied couples who eventually divorce from those who remain married. We identified 136 couples reporting stably high levels of relationship satisfaction in the first 4 years of marriage. We compared the couples who went on to divorce by the 10-year follow-up with the couples who remained married on initial measures of commitment, observed communication, stress, and personality. Divorcing couples displayed more negative communication, emotion, and social support as newlyweds compared with couples who did not divorce. No significant differences were found in the other domains, in relationship satisfaction, or in positive behaviors. Overall, results indicate that even couples who are very successful at navigating the early years of marriage can be vulnerable to later dissolution if their interpersonal exchanges are poorly regulated. We speculate that, paradoxically, the many strengths possessed by these couples may mask their potent interpersonal liabilities, posing challenges for educational interventions designed to help these couples.

Models analyses for allelopathic effects of chicory at equivalent coupling of nitrogen supply and pH level on F. arundinacea, T. repens and M. sativa.

PubMed

Wang, Quanzhen; Xie, Bao; Wu, Chunhui; Chen, Guo; Wang, Zhengwei; Cui, Jian; Hu, Tianming; Wiatrak, Pawel

2012-01-01

Alllelopathic potential of chicory was investigated by evaluating its effect on seed germination, soluble sugar, malondialdehyde (MDA) and the chlorophyll content of three target plants species (Festuca arundinacea, Trifolium repens and Medicago sativa). The secretion of allelochemicals was regulated by keeping the donor plant (chicory) separate from the three target plant species and using different pH and nitrogen levels. Leachates from donor pots with different pH levels and nitrogen concentrations continuously irrigated the target pots containing the seedlings. The allelopathic effects of the chicory at equivalent coupling of nitrogen supply and pH level on the three target plants species were explored via models analyses. The results suggested a positive effect of nitrogen supply and pH level on allelochemical secretion from chicory plants. The nitrogen supply and pH level were located at a rectangular area defined by 149 to 168 mg/l nitrogen supply combining 4.95 to 7.0 pH value and point located at nitrogen supply 177 mg/l, pH 6.33 when they were in equivalent coupling effects; whereas the inhibitory effects of equivalent coupling nitrogen supply and pH level were located at rectangular area defined by 125 to 131 mg/l nitrogen supply combining 6.71 to 6.88 pH value and two points respectively located at nitrogen supply 180 mg/l with pH 6.38 and nitrogen supply 166 mg/l with pH 7.59. Aqueous extracts of chicory fleshy roots and leaves accompanied by treatment at different sand pH values and nitrogen concentrations influenced germination, seedling growth, soluble sugar, MDA and chlorophyll of F. arundinacea, T. repens and M. sativa. Additionally, we determined the phenolics contents of root and leaf aqueous extracts, which were 0.104% and 0.044% on average, respectively.

Models Analyses for Allelopathic Effects of Chicory at Equivalent Coupling of Nitrogen Supply and pH Level on F. arundinacea, T. repens and M. sativa

PubMed Central

Wang, Quanzhen; Xie, Bao; Wu, Chunhui; Chen, Guo; Wang, Zhengwei; Cui, Jian; Hu, Tianming; Wiatrak, Pawel

2012-01-01

Alllelopathic potential of chicory was investigated by evaluating its effect on seed germination, soluble sugar, malondialdehyde (MDA) and the chlorophyll content of three target plants species (Festuca arundinacea, Trifolium repens and Medicago sativa). The secretion of allelochemicals was regulated by keeping the donor plant (chicory) separate from the three target plant species and using different pH and nitrogen levels. Leachates from donor pots with different pH levels and nitrogen concentrations continuously irrigated the target pots containing the seedlings. The allelopathic effects of the chicory at equivalent coupling of nitrogen supply and pH level on the three target plants species were explored via models analyses. The results suggested a positive effect of nitrogen supply and pH level on allelochemical secretion from chicory plants. The nitrogen supply and pH level were located at a rectangular area defined by 149 to 168 mg/l nitrogen supply combining 4.95 to 7.0 pH value and point located at nitrogen supply 177 mg/l, pH 6.33 when they were in equivalent coupling effects; whereas the inhibitory effects of equivalent coupling nitrogen supply and pH level were located at rectangular area defined by 125 to 131 mg/l nitrogen supply combining 6.71 to 6.88 pH value and two points respectively located at nitrogen supply 180 mg/l with pH 6.38 and nitrogen supply 166 mg/l with pH 7.59. Aqueous extracts of chicory fleshy roots and leaves accompanied by treatment at different sand pH values and nitrogen concentrations influenced germination, seedling growth, soluble sugar, MDA and chlorophyll of F. arundinacea, T. repens and M. sativa. Additionally, we determined the phenolics contents of root and leaf aqueous extracts, which were 0.104% and 0.044% on average, respectively. PMID:22384054

Responses of forest carbon and water coupling to thinning treatments at both the leaf and individual tree levels in a 16-year-old natural Pinus Contorta stand

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Y.; Wei, A.; del Campo, A.; Li, Q.; Giles-Hansen, K.

2017-12-01

Large-scale disturbances in Canadian forests, including mountain pine beetle infestation in western Canada, forest fires, timber harvesting and climate change impacts, have significantly affected both forest carbon and water cycles. Thinning, which selectively removes trees at a given forest stand, may be an effective tool to mitigate the effect of these disturbances. Various studies have been conducted to assess the thinning effect on growth, transpiration, and nutrient availability; however, relatively few studies have been conducted to examine its effect on the coupling of forest carbon and water. Thus, the objective of this research is to evaluate the effect of thinning on forest carbon and water coupling at both the leaf and tree levels in a 16-year-old natural Pinus Contorta forest in the interior of British Columbia in Canada. We used water-use efficiency (WUE), the ratio of basal area increment (BA) to tree transpiration (E), as the indicator of the carbon and water coupling at individual tree level, and use intrinsic water-use efficiency (iWUE), the ratio of photosynthesis (A) to stomatal conductance (G), to represent the coupling at the leaf level. Field experiments were conducted in the Upper Penticton Watershed where the mean annual precipitation is 750 mm with seasonal drought during summer. A randomized block design was used, with three blocks each containing two thinning intensities and one unthinned plot (T1: 4,500, T2: 1,100, C: 26,400 trees per ha.). From May to October 2016, basal diameter, sap flow, and environmental conditions were monitored continuously at every 20 minutes, while A and G were measured weekly. Preliminary results showed that thinning significantly increased solar radiation, wind speed, and soil moisture in the treatment plots, where the changes observed were proportional to the intensity of the thinning; but thinning did not change stand level temperature and relative humidity. Thinning also significantly enhanced tree E and BA, but no significant differences in WUE at both spatial scales were observed and no scaling relationship was detected. Overall, our data indicated that in the short term, thinning enhanced water consumption and carbon assimilation, but did not alter their coupling. However, the impact of thinning needs further investigation over a longer research period.

Couplerlib: a metadata-driven library for the integration of multiple models of higher and lower trophic level marine systems with inexact functional group matching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beecham, Jonathan; Bruggeman, Jorn; Aldridge, John; Mackinson, Steven

2016-03-01

End-to-end modelling is a rapidly developing strategy for modelling in marine systems science and management. However, problems remain in the area of data matching and sub-model compatibility. A mechanism and novel interfacing system (Couplerlib) is presented whereby a physical-biogeochemical model (General Ocean Turbulence Model-European Regional Seas Ecosystem Model, GOTM-ERSEM) that predicts dynamics of the lower trophic level (LTL) organisms in marine ecosystems is coupled to a dynamic ecosystem model (Ecosim), which predicts food-web interactions among higher trophic level (HTL) organisms. Coupling is achieved by means of a bespoke interface, which handles the system incompatibilities between the models and a more generic Couplerlib library, which uses metadata descriptions in extensible mark-up language (XML) to marshal data between groups, paying attention to functional group mappings and compatibility of units between models. In addition, within Couplerlib, models can be coupled across networks by means of socket mechanisms. As a demonstration of this approach, a food-web model (Ecopath with Ecosim, EwE) and a physical-biogeochemical model (GOTM-ERSEM) representing the North Sea ecosystem were joined with Couplerlib. The output from GOTM-ERSEM varies between years, depending on oceanographic and meteorological conditions. Although inter-annual variability was clearly present, there was always the tendency for an annual cycle consisting of a peak of diatoms in spring, followed by (less nutritious) flagellates and dinoflagellates through the summer, resulting in an early summer peak in the mesozooplankton biomass. Pelagic productivity, predicted by the LTL model, was highly seasonal with little winter food for the higher trophic levels. The Ecosim model was originally based on the assumption of constant annual inputs of energy and, consequently, when coupled, pelagic species suffered population losses over the winter months. By contrast, benthic populations were more stable (although the benthic linkage modelled was purely at the detritus level, so this stability reflects the stability of the Ecosim model). The coupled model was used to examine long-term effects of environmental change, and showed the system to be nutrient limited and relatively unaffected by forecast climate change, especially in the benthos. The stability of an Ecosim formulation for large higher tropic level food webs is discussed and it is concluded that this kind of coupled model formulation is better for examining the effects of long-term environmental change than short-term perturbations.

Biocomplexity in coupled natural–human systems: a multidimensional framework

Treesearch

S.T.A. Pickett; M.L. Cadenasso; J.M. Grove

2005-01-01

As defined by Ascher, biocomplexity results from a "multiplicity of interconnected relationships and levels. "However, no integrative framework yet exists to facilitate the application of this concept to coupled human-natural systems. Indeed, the term "biocomplexity" is still used primarily as a creative and provocative metaphor. To help advance its...

Comparison between Couple Attachment Styles, Stress Coping Styles and Self-Esteem Levels

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Çolakkadioglu, Oguzhan; Akbas, Turan; Uslu, Sevcan Karabulut

2017-01-01

Data were acquired from a total of 422 university students with 216 female and 206 male students via Couple Attachment Scale, Stress Coping Styles Scale and Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory. Positive and statistically significant relationships were determined between self-confident approach, optimistic approach and social support approach…

Savings Behavior and Satisfaction with Savings: A Comparison of Low- and High-Income Groups.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davis, Elizabeth P.; Schumm, Walter R.

1987-01-01

Data on 1,739 married couples from 13 states were analyzed. Associations between satisfaction with savings and level of savings with measures of motivation to save, motivations to spend, and family resources were found to differ substantially between low- and high-income couples. (Author/CH)

Long-Term Adjustment of Infertile Couples Following Unsuccessful Medical Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Daniluk, Judith C.; Tench, Elizabeth

2007-01-01

A 33-month longitudinal study was conducted with 38 infertile couples making the transition to biological childlessness after unsuccessful fertility treatments. Changes in their levels of psychological distress; marital, sexual, and life satisfaction; and self-esteem were examined. Increased self-esteem and decreased sexual satisfaction were…

Effect of psychological stress on fertility hormones and seminal quality in male partners of infertile couples.

PubMed

Bhongade, M B; Prasad, S; Jiloha, R C; Ray, P C; Mohapatra, S; Koner, B C

2015-04-01

The present study evaluated the effect of psychological stress on male fertility hormones and seminal quality in male partner of infertile couples. Seventy male partners of infertile couples were evaluated for level of psychological stress using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score (HADS) questionnaire, serum total testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) by electrochemiluminescence assay and serum GnRH by ELISA. Seminal analysis was performed as per WHO guideline. Nineteen (27%) of them had HADS anxiety and depression score ≥8 (abnormal HADS score). The persons having abnormal HADS had lower serum total testosterone, higher serum FSH and LH than those of persons having normal HADS. Serum total testosterone correlated negatively with HADS, but LH and FSH correlated positively. There was no change in GnRH with the change in stress or testosterone levels. Sperm count, motility and morphologically normal spermatozoa were lower in persons having abnormal HADS. Sperm count correlated positively with total testosterone and negatively with FSH and LH. Abnormal sperm motility and morphology were related to lower testosterone and higher LH and FSH levels. Psychological stress primarily lowers serum total testosterone level with secondary rise in serum LH and FSH levels altering seminal quality. Stress management is warranted for male infertility cases. © 2014 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Exacerbation of South Asian monsoon biases in GCMs using when using coupled ocean models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turner, Andrew

2015-04-01

Cold biases during spring in the northern Arabian Sea of coupled ocean-atmosphere GCMs have previously been shown to limit monsoon rainfall over South Asia during the subsequent summer, by limiting the availability of moisture being advected. The cold biases develop following advection of cold dry air on anomalous northerly low level flow, suggestive of a too-strong winter monsoon in the coupled GCMs. As the same time, these cold biases and the anomalous advection have been related to larger scales by interaction with progression of the midlatitude westerly upper level flow. In this study we compare monsoon characteristics in 20th century historical and AMIP integrations of the CMIP5 multi-model database. We use a period of 1979-2005, common to both the AMIP and historical integrations. While all available observed boundary conditions, including sea-surface temperature (SST), are prescribed in the AMIP integrations, the historical integrations feature ocean-atmosphere models that generate SSTs via air-sea coupled processes. In AMIP experiments, the seasonal mean monsoon rainfall is shown to be systematically larger than in the coupled versions, with an earlier onset date also shown using a variety of circulation and precipitation metrics. In addition, examination of the springtime jet structure suggests that it sits too far south in the coupled models, leading to a delayed formation of the South Asia High over the Tibetan Plateau in summer. Further, we show that anomalous low entropy air is being advected near the surface from the north over the Arabian Sea in spring in the coupled models.

Marital satisfaction, conflict communication, attachment style and psychological distress in couples with a hospitalized depressed patient.

PubMed

Lemmens, Gilbert M D; Buysse, Ann; Heene, Els; Eisler, Ivan; Demyttenaere, Koen

2007-04-01

There has been fairly consistent empirical support for the association between major depressive disorder and marital dissatisfaction. However, this evidence is limited mostly to out-patient and population-based samples. Further, the role of possible mediating factors such as attachment style and conflict communication are less well investigated in major depression. The present study aims to investigate whether couples with a depressed partner and nonclinical couples differ in marital satisfaction, attachment style, psychological distress and conflict communication. Gender differences are also investigated. Seventy-seven couples, who participated in a family intervention trial, were compared with 77 age- and gender-matched nonclinical couples. The depressed patients reported more psychological distress and attachment difficulties and less marital satisfaction than their partners and the nonclinical couples. Partners perceived their relationship as more satisfying than the nonclinical couples. The clinical couples reported less mutual constructive and more mutual avoidant communication in their relationship compared with the nonclinical couples. Finally, female depressed patients reported higher levels of psychological symptoms and were more avoidant attached than male patients. This study shows important differences in several individual and relational characteristics between couples with a depressed partner and nonclinical couples. Further research will be necessary to clarify whether the investigated psychosocial variables play a causal and/or a maintaining role in depression.

Search for leptoquarks with the ZEUS detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Derrick, M.; Krakauer, D.; Magill, S.; Musgrave, B.; Repond, J.; Repond, S.; Stanek, R.; Talaga, R. L.; Thron, J.; Arzarello, F.; Ayad, R.; Bari, G.; Basile, M.; Bellagamba, L.; Boscherini, D.; Bruni, A.; Bruni, G.; Bruni, P.; Cara Romeo, G.; Castellini, G.; Chiarini, M.; Cifarelli, L.; Cindolo, F.; Ciralli, F.; Contin, A.; D'Auria, S.; Del Papa, C.; Frasconi, F.; Giusti, P.; Iacobucci, G.; Laurenti, G.; Levi, G.; Lin, Q.; Lisowski, B.; Maccarrone, G.; Margotti, A.; Massam, T.; Nania, R.; Nemoz, C.; Palmonari, F.; Sartorelli, G.; Timellini, R.; Zamora Garcia, Y.; Zichichi, A.; Bargende, A.; Crittenden, J.; Dabbous, H.; Desch, K.; Diekmann, B.; Doeker, T.; Geerts, M.; Geitz, G.; Gutjahr, B.; Hartmann, H.; Haun, D.; Heinloth, K.; Hilger, E.; Jakob, H.-P.; Kramarczyk, S.; Kückes, M.; Mass, A.; Mengel, S.; Mollen, J.; Monaldi, D.; Müsch, H.; Paul, E.; Schattevoy, R.; Schneider, J.-L.; Wedemeyer, R.; Cassidy, A.; Cussans, D. G.; Dyce, N.; Fawcett, H. F.; Foster, B.; Gilmore, R.; Heath, G. P.; Lancaster, M.; Llewellyn, T. J.; Malos, J.; Morgado, C. J. S.; Tapper, R. J.; Wilson, S. S.; Rau, R. R.; Arneodo, M.; Barillari, T.; Schioppa, M.; Susinno, G.; Bernstein, A.; Caldwell, A.; Gialas, I.; Parsons, J. A.; Ritz, S.; Sciulli, F.; Straub, P. B.; Wai, L.; Yang, S.; Chwastowski, J.; Dwuraźny, A.; Eskreys, A.; Jakubowski, Z.; Nizioł, B.; Piotrzkowski, K.; Zachara, M.; Zawiejski, L.; Bednarek, B.; Borzemski, P.; Eskreys, K.; Jelén, K.; Kisielewska, D.; Kowalski, T.; Rulikowska-Zarȩbska, E.; Suszycki, L.; Zajaç, J.; Kȩdzierski, T.; Kotański, A.; Przybycień, M.; Bauerdick, L. A. T.; Behrens, U.; Bienlein, J. K.; Coldewey, C.; Dannemann, A.; Drews, G.; Erhard, P.; Flasiński, M.; Fleck, I.; Gläser, R.; Göttlicher, P.; Haas, T.; Hagge, L.; Hain, W.; Hasell, D.; Hultschig, H.; Jahnen, G.; Joos, P.; Kasemann, M.; Klanner, R.; Koch, W.; Kötz, U.; Kowalski, H.; Krüger, J.; Labs, J.; Ladage, A.; Löhr, B.; Löwe, M.; Lüke, D.; Mainusch, J.; Manczak, O.; Momayezi, M.; Ng, J. S. T.; Nickel, S.; Notz, D.; Park, I. H.; Pösnecker, K.-U.; Rohde, M.; Roldán, J.; Ros, E.; Schneekloth, U.; Schroeder, J.; Schulz, W.; Selonke, F.; Stiliaris, E.; Tscheslog, E.; Tsurugai, T.; Turkot, F.; Vogel, W.; Wolf, G.; Youngman, C.; Grabosch, H. J.; Leich, A.; Meyer, A.; Rethfeldt, C.; Schlenstedt, S.; Barbagli, G.; Francescato, A.; Nuti, M.; Pelfer, P.; Anzivino, G.; Casaccia, R.; De Pasquale, S.; Qian, S.; Votano, L.; Bamberger, A.; Freidhof, A.; Poser, T.; Söldner-Rembold, S.; Theisen, G.; Trefzger, T.; Brook, N. H.; Bussey, P. J.; Doyle, A. T.; Forbes, J. R.; Jamieson, V. A.; Raine, C.; Saxon, D. H.; Brückmann, H.; Gloth, G.; Holm, U.; Kammerlocher, H.; Krebs, B.; Neumann, T.; Wick, K.; Fürtjes, A.; Kröger, W.; Lohrmann, E.; Milewski, J.; Nakahata, M.; Pavel, N.; Poelz, G.; Seidman, A.; Schott, W.; Terron, J.; Wiik, B. H.; Zetsche, F.; Bacon, T. C.; Butterworth, I.; Markou, C.; McQuillan, D.; Miller, D. B.; Mobayyen, M. M.; Prinias, A.; Vorvolakos, A.; Bienz, T.; Kreutzmann, H.; Mallik, U.; McCliment, E.; Roco, M.; Wang, M. Z.; Cloth, P.; Filges, D.; Chen, L.; Imlay, R.; Kartik, S.; Kim, H.-J.; McNeil, R. R.; Metcalf, W.; Barreiro, F.; Cases, G.; Hervás, L.; Labarga, L.; del Peso, J.; de Trocóniz, J. F.; Ikraiam, F.; Mayer, J. K.; Smith, G. R.; Corriveau, F.; Gilkinson, D. J.; Hanna, D. S.; Hartmann, J.; Hung, L. W.; Lim, J. N.; Meijer Drees, R.; Mitchell, J. W.; Patel, P. M.; Sinclair, L. E.; Stairs, D. G.; Ullmann, R.; Bashindzhagyan, G. L.; Ermolov, P. F.; Gladilin, L. K.; Golubkov, Y. A.; Kuzmin, V. A.; Kuznetsov, E. N.; Savin, A. A.; Voronin, A. G.; Zotov, N. P.; Bentvelsen, S.; Botje, M.; Dake, A.; Engelen, J.; de Jong, P.; de Kamps, M.; Kooijman, P.; Kruse, A.; van der Lugt, H.; O'Dell, V.; Tenner, A.; Tiecke, H.; Uijterwaal, H.; Vreeswijk, M.; Wiggers, L.; de Wolf, E.; van Woudenberg, R.; Yoshida, R.; Bylsma, B.; Durkin, L. S.; Honscheid, K.; Li, C.; Ling, T. Y.; McLean, K. W.; Murray, W. N.; Park, S. K.; Romanowski, T. A.; Seidlein, R.; Blair, G. A.; Byrne, A.; Cashmore, R. J.; Cooper-Sarkar, A. M.; Devenish, R. C. E.; Gingrich, D. M.; Hallam-Baker, P. M.; Harnew, N.; Khatri, T.; Long, K. R.; Luffman, P.; McArthur, I.; Morawitz, P.; Nash, J.; Smith, S. J. P.; Roocroft, N. C.; Wilson, F. F.; Abbiendi, G.; Brugnera, R.; Carlin, R.; Dal Corso, F.; De Giorgi, M.; Dosselli, U.; Gasparini, F.; Limentani, S.; Morandin, M.; Posocco, M.; Stanco, L.; Stroili, R.; Voci, C.; Butterworth, J. M.; Bulmahn, J.; Oh, B. Y.; Whitmore, J.; Contino, U.; D'Agostini, G.; Guida, M.; Iori, M.; Mari, S. M.; Marini, G.; Mattioli, M.; Nigro, A.; Hart, J. C.; McCubbin, N. A.; Prytz, K.; Shah, T. P.; Short, T. L.; Barberis, E.; Cartiglia, N.; Heusch, C.; Hubbard, B.; Leslie, J.; Lockman, W.; O'Shaughnessy, K.; Sadrozinski, H. P.; Seiden, A.; Badura, E.; Biltzinger, J.; Chavez, H.; Rost, M.; Seifert, R. J.; Walenta, A. H.; Weihs, W.; Zech, G.; Dagan, S.; Levy, A.; Zer-Zion, D.; Hasegawa, T.; Hazumi, M.; Ishii, T.; Kasai, S.; Kuze, M.; Nagasawa, Y.; Nakao, M.; Okuno, H.; Tokushuku, K.; Watanabe, T.; Yamada, S.; Chiba, M.; Hamatsu, R.; Hirose, T.; Kitamura, S.; Nagayama, S.; Nakamitsu, Y.; Cirio, R.; Costa, M.; Ferrero, M. I.; Lamberti, L.; Maselli, S.; Peroni, C.; Solano, A.; Staiano, A.; Dardo, M.; Bailey, D. C.; Bandyopadhyay, D.; Benard, F.; Bhadra, S.; Brkic, M.; Burow, B. D.; Chlebana, F. S.; Crombie, M. B.; Hartner, G. F.; Levman, G. M.; Martin, J. F.; Orr, R. S.; Prentice, J. D.; Sampson, C. R.; Stairs, G. G.; Teuscher, R. J.; Yoon, T.-S.; Bullock, F. W.; Catterall, C. D.; Giddings, J. C.; Jones, T. W.; Khan, A. M.; Lane, J. B.; Makkar, P. L.; Shaw, D.; Shulman, J.; Blankenship, K.; Gibaut, D. B.; Kochocki, J.; Lu, B.; Mo, L. W.; Charchula, K.; Ciborowski, J.; Gajewski, J.; Grzelak, G.; Kasprzak, M.; Krzyżanowski, M.; Muchorowski, K.; Nowak, R. J.; Pawlak, J. M.; Stopczyński, A.; Tymieniecka, T.; Walczak, R.; Wróblewski, A. K.; Zakrzewski, J. A.; Żarnecki, A. F.; Adamus, M.; Abramowicz, H.; Eisenberg, Y.; Glasman, C.; Karshon, U.; Montag, A.; Revel, D.; Shapira, A.; Foudas, C.; Fordham, C.; Loveless, R. J.; Goussiou, A.; Ali, I.; Behrens, B.; Dasu, S.; Reeder, D. D.; Smith, W. H.; Silverstein, S.; Frisken, W. R.; Furutani, K. M.; Iga, Y.; ZEUS Collaboration

1993-05-01

A search for any resonant state coupled to an electron and a proton constituent has been performed using collisions of electron and proton beams at HERA. In a sample with integrated luminosity of 26 nb -1, no evidence has been found for production of leptoquarks with decays to e- + jet or ν + je to electron and quark have been determined for masses above 25 GeV. For example, scalar isosinglet leptoquarks ( S0) with electroweak coupling strength to ( e-u) states are ruled out at the 95% confidence level for masses below 168 GeV for left-handed couplings and below 176 GeV for right-handed couplings.

Effective light coupling in reflective fiber optic distance sensors using a double-clad fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Werzinger, Stefan; Härteis, Lisa; Köhler, Aaron; Engelbrecht, Rainer; Schmauss, Bernhard

2017-04-01

Many fiber optic distance sensors use a reflective configuration, where a light beam is launched from an optical fiber, reflected from a target and coupled back into the fiber. While singlemode fibers (SMF) provide low-loss, high-performance components and a well-defined output beam, the coupling of the reflected light into the SMF is very sensitive to mechanical misalignments and scattering at the reflecting target. In this paper we use a double-clad fiber (DCF) and a DCF coupler to obtain an enhanced multimodal coupling of reflected light into the fiber. Increased power levels and robustness are achieved compared to a pure SMF configuration.

Coulomb Impurity Problem of Graphene in Strong Coupling Regime in Magnetic Fields.

PubMed

Kim, S C; Yang, S-R Eric

2015-10-01

We investigate the Coulomb impurity problem of graphene in strong coupling limit in the presence of magnetic fields. When the strength of the Coulomb potential is sufficiently strong the electron of the lowest energy boundstate of the n = 0 Landau level may fall to the center of the potential. To prevent this spurious effect the Coulomb potential must be regularized. The scaling function for the inverse probability density of this state at the center of the impurity potential is computed in the strong coupling regime. The dependence of the computed scaling function on the regularization parameter changes significantly as the strong coupling regime is approached.

Impact of electronic coupling, symmetry, and planarization on one- and two-photon properties of triarylamines with one, two, or three diarylboryl acceptors.

PubMed

Makarov, Nikolay S; Mukhopadhyay, Sukrit; Yesudas, Kada; Brédas, Jean-Luc; Perry, Joseph W; Pron, Agnieszka; Kivala, Milan; Müllen, Klaus

2012-04-19

We have performed a study of the one- and two-photon absorption properties of a systematically varied series of triarylamino-compounds with one, two, or three attached diarylborane arms arranged in linear dipolar, bent dipolar, and octupolar geometries. Two-photon fluorescence excitation spectra were measured over a wide spectral range with femtosecond laser pulses. We found that on going from the single-arm to the two- and three-arm systems, the peak in two-photon absorption (2PA) cross-section is suppressed by factors of 3-11 for the lowest excitonic level associated with the electronic coupling of the arms, whereas it is enhanced by factors of 4-8 for the higher excitonic level. These results show that the coupling of arms redistributes the 2PA cross-section between the excitonic levels in a manner that strongly favors the higher-energy excitonic level. The experimental data on one- and two-photon cross-sections, ground- and excited-state transition dipole moments, and permanent dipole moment differences between the ground and the lowest excited states were compared to the results obtained from a simple Frenkel exciton model and from highly correlated quantum-chemical calculations. It has been found that planarization of the structure around the triarylamine moiety leads to a sizable increase in peak 2PA cross-section for the lowest excitonic level of the two-arm system, whereas for the three-arm system, the corresponding peak was weakened and shifted to lower energy. Our studies show the importance of the interarm coupling, number of arms, and structural planarity on both the enhancement and the suppression of two-photon cross-sections in multiarm molecules. © 2012 American Chemical Society

Apodized coupled resonator waveguides.

PubMed

Capmany, J; Muñoz, P; Domenech, J D; Muriel, M A

2007-08-06

In this paper we propose analyse the apodisation or windowing of the coupling coefficients in the unit cells of coupled resonator waveguide devices (CROWs) as a means to reduce the level of secondary sidelobes in the bandpass characteristic of their transfer functions. This technique is regularly employed in the design of digital filters and has been applied as well in the design of other photonic devices such as corrugated waveguide filters and fiber Bragg gratings. The apodisation of both Type-I and Type-II structures is discussed for several windowing functions.

Evolvable circuit with transistor-level reconfigurability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stoica, Adrian (Inventor); Salazar-Lazaro, Carlos Harold (Inventor)

2004-01-01

An evolvable circuit includes a plurality of reconfigurable switches, a plurality of transistors within a region of the circuit, the plurality of transistors having terminals, the plurality of transistors being coupled between a power source terminal and a power sink terminal so as to be capable of admitting power between the power source terminal and the power sink terminal, the plurality of transistors being coupled so that every transistor terminal to transistor terminal coupling within the region of the circuit comprises a reconfigurable switch.

I Do…Do You? Dependence and Biological Sex Moderate Daters’ Cortisol Responses When Accommodating a Partner’s Thoughts about Marriage

PubMed Central

Schoenfeld, Elizabeth A.; Loving, Timothy J.

2012-01-01

We examined how daters’ levels of relationship dependence interact with men’s and women’s degree of accommodation during a likelihood of marriage discussion to predict cortisol levels at the conclusion of the discussion. Upon arriving at the laboratory, couple members were separated and asked to graph their perceived likelihood of one day marrying each other. Couples were reunited and instructed to create a joint graph depicting their agreed-upon chance of marriage. For the majority of couples, negotiating their likelihood of marriage required one or both partners to accommodate each other’s presumed likelihood of marriage. Multilevel analyses revealed a significant Dependence x Accommodation x Sex interaction. For women who increased their likelihood of marriage, feelings of dependence predicted heightened levels of cortisol relative to baseline; we suggest such a response is indicative of eustress. Among men, those who accommodated by decreasing their likelihood of marriage experienced significantly lower levels of cortisol to the extent they were less dependent on their partners. Discussion focuses on why men and women show different physiological reactions in response to seemingly favorable outcomes from a relationship discussion. PMID:22801249

I do…do you? Dependence and biological sex moderate daters' cortisol responses when accommodating a partner's thoughts about marriage.

PubMed

Schoenfeld, Elizabeth A; Loving, Timothy J

2013-06-01

We examined how daters' levels of relationship dependence interact with men's and women's degree of accommodation during a likelihood of marriage discussion to predict cortisol levels at the conclusion of the discussion. Upon arriving at the laboratory, couple members were separated and asked to graph their perceived likelihood of one day marrying each other. Couples were reunited and instructed to create a joint graph depicting their agreed-upon chance of marriage. For the majority of couples, negotiating their likelihood of marriage required one or both partners to accommodate each other's presumed likelihood of marriage. Multilevel analyses revealed a significant Dependence×Accommodation×Sex interaction. For women who increased their likelihood of marriage, feelings of dependence predicted heightened levels of cortisol relative to baseline; we suggest such a response is indicative of eustress. Among men, those who accommodated by decreasing their likelihood of marriage experienced significantly lower levels of cortisol to the extent that they were less dependent on their partners. Discussion focuses on why men and women show different physiological reactions in response to seemingly favorable outcomes from a relationship discussion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Circuit QED with qutrits: Coupling three or more atoms via virtual-photon exchange

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Peng; Tan, Xinsheng; Yu, Haifeng; Zhu, Shi-Liang; Yu, Yang

2017-10-01

We present a model to describe a generic circuit QED system which consists of multiple artificial three-level atoms, namely, qutrits, strongly coupled to a cavity mode. When the state transition of the atoms disobeys the selection rules the process that does not conserve the number of excitations can happen determinatively. Therefore, we can realize coherent exchange interaction among three or more atoms mediated by the exchange of virtual photons. In addition, we generalize the one-cavity-mode mediated interactions to the multicavity situation, providing a method to entangle atoms located in different cavities. Using experimentally feasible parameters, we investigate the dynamics of the model including three cyclic-transition three-level atoms, for which the two lowest energy levels can be treated as qubits. Hence, we have found that two qubits can jointly exchange excitation with one qubit in a coherent and reversible way. In the whole process, the population in the third level of atoms is negligible and the cavity photon number is far smaller than 1. Our model provides a feasible scheme to couple multiple distant atoms together, which may find applications in quantum information processing.

Computational fluid dynamics and frequency-dependent finite-difference time-domain method coupling for the interaction between microwaves and plasma in rocket plumes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kinefuchi, K.; Funaki, I.; Shimada, T.

Under certain conditions during rocket flights, ionized exhaust plumes from solid rocket motors may interfere with radio frequency transmissions. To understand the relevant physical processes involved in this phenomenon and establish a prediction process for in-flight attenuation levels, we attempted to measure microwave attenuation caused by rocket exhaust plumes in a sea-level static firing test for a full-scale solid propellant rocket motor. The microwave attenuation level was calculated by a coupling simulation of the inviscid-frozen-flow computational fluid dynamics of an exhaust plume and detailed analysis of microwave transmissions by applying a frequency-dependent finite-difference time-domain method with the Drude dispersion model.more » The calculated microwave attenuation level agreed well with the experimental results, except in the case of interference downstream the Mach disk in the exhaust plume. It was concluded that the coupling estimation method based on the physics of the frozen plasma flow with Drude dispersion would be suitable for actual flight conditions, although the mixing and afterburning in the plume should be considered depending on the flow condition.« less

The energy balance in coronal holes and average quiet-sun regions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Raymond, J. C.; Doyle, J. G.

1981-01-01

Emission measure curves are presented for average coronal hole and quiet-sun spectra taken during the Skylab mission by Vernazza and Reeves (1978), and the curves are used to discuss the energy balance in each region. Close-coupling calculations are used for the Be sequence, assuming a 10 level ion; for B sequence ions mainly distorted wave calculations in an 11 level ion are used, but close-coupling cross sections are used for some ions; for C and Mg sequence ions, distorted wave calculations are used with 15 and 10 level ions, respectively, and close-coupling results are used for Li-like ions with two levels. Results are presented and include the following: the coronal hole spectrum shows a smaller slope in the emission measure distribution, consistent with the expected outflow effects. It is concluded that the simple constant pressure models of static coronal loops of constant cross section are basically able to match the observed emission measure distribution of the average quiet sun between 1,000,000 and 10,000,000 K. However, the cell center and network distributions are respectively steeper and shallower than predicted by the detailed cooling curve.

Effect of the asymmetry of the coupling of the redox molecule to the electrodes in the one-level electrochemical bridged tunneling contact on the Coulomb blockade and the operation of molecular transistor.

PubMed

Medvedev, Igor G

2014-09-28

Effect of the asymmetry of the redox molecule (RM) coupling to the working electrodes on the Coulomb blockade and the operation of molecular transistor is considered under ambient conditions for the case of the non-adiabatic tunneling through the electrochemical contact having a one-level RM. The expressions for the tunnel current, the positions of the peaks of the tunnel current/overpotential dependencies, and their full widths at the half maximum are obtained for arbitrary values of the parameter d describing the coupling asymmetry of the tunneling contact and the effect of d on the different characteristics of the tunneling contact is studied. The tunnel current/overpotential and the differential conductance/bias voltage dependencies are calculated and interpreted. In particular, it is shown that the effect of the Coulomb blockade on the tunnel current and the differential conductance has a number of new features in the case of the large coupling asymmetry. It is also shown that, for rather large values of the solvent reorganization energy, the coupling asymmetry enhanced strongly amplification and rectification of the tunnel current in the most of the regions of the parameter space specifying the tunneling contact. The regions of the parameter space where both strong amplification and strong rectification take place are also revealed. The obtained results allow us to prove the possibility of the realization of the effective electrochemical transistor based on the one-level RM.

Atmosphere-ocean feedbacks in a coastal upwelling system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alves, J. M. R.; Peliz, A.; Caldeira, R. M. A.; Miranda, P. M. A.

2018-03-01

The COAWST (Coupled Ocean-Atmosphere-Wave-Sediment Transport) modelling system is used in different configurations to simulate the Iberian upwelling during the 2012 summer, aiming to assess the atmosphere-ocean feedbacks in the upwelling dynamics. When model results are compared with satellite measurements and in-situ data, two-way coupling is found to have a moderate impact in data-model statistics. A significant reinforcement of atmosphere-ocean coupling coefficients is, however, observed in the two-way coupled run, and in the WRF and ROMS runs forced by previously simulated SST and wind fields, respectively. The increasing in the coupling coefficient is associated with slight, but potentially important changes in the low-level coastal jet in the atmospheric marine boundary layer. While these results do not imply the need for fully coupled simulations in many applications, they show that in seasonal numerical studies such simulations do not degrade the overall model performance, and contribute to produce better dynamical fields.

Combination of dynamic Bayesian network classifiers for the recognition of degraded characters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Likforman-Sulem, Laurence; Sigelle, Marc

2009-01-01

We investigate in this paper the combination of DBN (Dynamic Bayesian Network) classifiers, either independent or coupled, for the recognition of degraded characters. The independent classifiers are a vertical HMM and a horizontal HMM whose observable outputs are the image columns and the image rows respectively. The coupled classifiers, presented in a previous study, associate the vertical and horizontal observation streams into single DBNs. The scores of the independent and coupled classifiers are then combined linearly at the decision level. We compare the different classifiers -independent, coupled or linearly combined- on two tasks: the recognition of artificially degraded handwritten digits and the recognition of real degraded old printed characters. Our results show that coupled DBNs perform better on degraded characters than the linear combination of independent HMM scores. Our results also show that the best classifier is obtained by linearly combining the scores of the best coupled DBN and the best independent HMM.

Extremely high-brightness kW-class fiber coupled diode lasers with wavelength stabilization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Robin K.; Chann, Bien; Glenn, John D.

2011-06-01

TeraDiode has produced ultra-high brightness fiber-coupled direct diode lasers. A fiber-coupled direct diode laser with a power level of 1,040 W from a 200 μm core diameter, 0.18 numerical aperture (NA) output fiber at a single center wavelength was demonstrated. This was achieved with a novel beam combining and shaping technique using COTS diode lasers. The fiber-coupled output corresponds to a Beam Parameter Product (BPP) of 18 mm-mrad and is the lowest BPP kW-class direct diode laser yet reported. The laser has been used to demonstrate laser cutting and welding of steel sheet metal up to 6.65 mm thick. Higher brightness fiber-coupled diode lasers, including a module with 418 W of power coupled to a 100 μm, 0.15 NA fiber, have also been demonstrated.

Highly damped kinematic coupling for precision instruments

DOEpatents

Hale, Layton C.; Jensen, Steven A.

2001-01-01

A highly damped kinematic coupling for precision instruments. The kinematic coupling provides support while causing essentially no influence to its nature shape, with such influences coming, for example, from manufacturing tolerances, temperature changes, or ground motion. The coupling uses three ball-cone constraints, each combined with a released flexural degree of freedom. This arrangement enables a gain of higher load capacity and stiffness, but can also significantly reduce the friction level in proportion to the ball radius divided by the distance between the ball and the hinge axis. The blade flexures reduces somewhat the stiffness of the coupling and provides an ideal location to apply constrained-layer damping which is accomplished by attaching a viscoelastic layer and a constraining layer on opposite sides of each of the blade flexures. The three identical ball-cone flexures provide a damped coupling mechanism to kinematically support the projection optics system of the extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL) system, or other load-sensitive apparatus.

More than One Way to Get There: Pathways of Change in Coparenting Conflict after a Preventive Intervention.

PubMed

Epstein, Kenneth; Pruett, Marsha Kline; Cowan, Philip; Cowan, Carolyn; Pradhan, Lisa; Mah, Elisabeth; Pruett, Kyle

2015-12-01

This study explored pathways of change in the levels of conflict couples experienced after Supporting Father Involvement, an evidence-based, prevention-oriented couples and parenting intervention that included a diverse low-income and working class group of participants. Pathways of change were examined for couples with baseline conflict scores that were initially low, medium, and high. The growth mixture model analysis found that the best-fitting model for change in couples' conflict was represented by three distinctly different change patterns. The intervention was most successful for High-Conflict couples. This finding contributes to a growing literature examining variations in how relationships change over time and the process of change, especially for couples in distress. This study supports further investigation into the impact and costs associated with universal interventions versus those that target specific groups of higher risk families. © 2015 Family Process Institute.

Stimulant use patterns and HIV transmission risk among HIV-serodiscordant male couples.

PubMed

Gamarel, Kristi E; Woolf-King, Sarah E; Carrico, Adam W; Neilands, Torsten B; Johnson, Mallory O

2015-02-01

Substance use is strongly linked to HIV risk, and members of couples can have a powerful influence on each other's health behaviors. We examined whether couple-level patterns of stimulant use were differentially associated with engaging in condomless anal intercourse with primary partners and outside partners. Members of HIV serodiscordant male couples (N = 117 couples, 232 men) completed surveys, and HIV-positive men had blood drawn for viral load. Results revealed that stimulant use by only one partner in the couple was associated with a decrease in the odds of engaging in condomless anal sex with one's primary partner (AOR = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.89). When both partners reported stimulant use, the HIV-negative partner had an increase in the odds of condomless sex with outside partners (AOR = 6.68, 95% CI: 1.09, 8.01). Understanding the role of couples' stimulant use patterns in HIV transmission risk is an important area for future research and intervention.

Sexual and Reproductive Health Education Needs, Gender Roles Attitudes and Acceptance of Couple Violence According to Engaged Men and Women.

PubMed

Terzioglu, Fusun; Kok, Gulsah; Guvenc, Gulten; Ozdemir, Funda; Gonenc, Ilknur Munevver; Hicyilmaz, Basak Demirtas; Sezer, Neslihan Yılmaz

2018-04-01

This descriptive study was aimed to evaluate the attitudes of the engaged men and women who are of legal age to marry towards gender roles and acceptance of couple violence, and determine their sexual/reproductive health education needs. It was conducted in two marriage registry offices in Ankara, Turkey. The study sample consisted of 740 participants. Data were collected by using semi-structured form, Gender Roles Attitude Scale and Acceptance of Couple Violence Scale. It was found that the engaged couples had educational needs concerning sexual/reproductive health; socio-demographic characteristics such as gender, age, education, residence, and income level created significant differences in the attitudes related to accepting gender roles and violence; and having an egalitarian attitude towards gender roles decreased the rate of accepting violence between the couples. Results indicate that premarital counseling is a promising strategy to support engaged couples' sexual/reproductive health needs, and increase their awareness about gender based couple violence in communities.

2PI effective theory at next-to-leading order using the functional renormalization group

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrington, M. E.; Friesen, S. A.; Meggison, B. A.; Phillips, C. D.; Pickering, D.; Sohrabi, K.

2018-02-01

We consider a symmetric scalar theory with quartic coupling in four dimensions. We show that the four-loop 2PI calculation can be done using a renormalization group method. The calculation involves one bare coupling constant which is introduced at the level of the Lagrangian and is therefore conceptually simpler than a standard 2PI calculation, which requires multiple counterterms. We explain how our method can be used to do the corresponding calculation at the 4PI level, which cannot be done using any known method by introducing counterterms.

Technical Note for 8D Likelihood Effective Higgs Couplings Extraction Framework in the Golden Channel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Yi; Di Marco, Emanuele; Lykken, Joe

2014-10-17

In this technical note we present technical details on various aspects of the framework introduced in arXiv:1401.2077 aimed at extracting effective Higgs couplings in themore » $$h\\to 4\\ell$$ `golden channel'. Since it is the primary feature of the framework, we focus in particular on the convolution integral which takes us from `truth' level to `detector' level and the numerical and analytic techniques used to obtain it. We also briefly discuss other aspects of the framework.« less

Inductively coupled plasma torch with laminar flow cooling

DOEpatents

Rayson, Gary D.; Shen, Yang

1991-04-30

An improved inductively coupled gas plasma torch. The torch includes inner and outer quartz sleeves and tubular insert snugly fitted between the sleeves. The insert includes outwardly opening longitudinal channels. Gas flowing through the channels of the insert emerges in a laminar flow along the inside surface of the outer sleeve, in the zone of plasma heating. The laminar flow cools the outer sleeve and enables the torch to operate at lower electrical power and gas consumption levels additionally, the laminar flow reduces noise levels in spectroscopic measurements of the gaseous plasma.

The effect of instruction on knowledge and attitude of couples attending pre-marriage counseling classes.

PubMed

Moodi, Mitra; Miri, Mohammad-Reza; Reza Sharifirad, Gholam

2013-01-01

Marriages and establishing a family is one of the most important events in the life of each person. It has significant effects on personal and social health, if it occurs with sufficient knowledge in the proper conditions. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of pre-marriage instruction on the knowledge and health attitudes of the couples attending the pre-marriage counseling classes. This pre and post quasi-experimental study was conducted on 250 couples attending the pre-marriage counseling classes. The required information was collected using an autonomous questionnaire designed based on the research objectives. The questionnaire included three parts: Demographic information, knowledge (27 questions) and attitude (18 questions. The questionnaire was filled out before and after the pre-marriage counseling program, which was presented as lectures. The effect of the instructional program was analyzed using a statistical test. The results showed that 83.2% of the couples had poor knowledge, 16% average, and 0.8% had good knowledge before the intervention. After the intervention, 60.4% of couples had poor knowledge, 31.6% average and 8% had good knowledge. The results also revealed that that the difference in mean scores of knowledge and attitudes regarding reproductive health, family planning, genetic diseases and disabilities was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Despite the mean scores of knowledge and attitude of the couples had increased after the instructional intervention, the increase in knowledge level was not very high. So the knowledge score of the couples increased just 4.3%, and only 8% of the couples had good knowledge after the instructional intervention. Therefore, to achieve a relatively stable behavior change in individuals and improving the health level of the young couples, it is recommended that more attention pay to the quality of the instructional classes.

The effect of instruction on knowledge and attitude of couples attending pre-marriage counseling classes

PubMed Central

Moodi, Mitra; Miri, Mohammad-Reza; Reza Sharifirad, Gholam

2013-01-01

Backgrounds: Marriages and establishing a family is one of the most important events in the life of each person. It has significant effects on personal and social health, if it occurs with sufficient knowledge in the proper conditions. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of pre-marriage instruction on the knowledge and health attitudes of the couples attending the pre-marriage counseling classes. Materials and Methods: This pre and post quasi-experimental study was conducted on 250 couples attending the pre-marriage counseling classes. The required information was collected using an autonomous questionnaire designed based on the research objectives. The questionnaire included three parts: Demographic information, knowledge (27 questions) and attitude (18 questions. The questionnaire was filled out before and after the pre-marriage counseling program, which was presented as lectures. The effect of the instructional program was analyzed using a statistical test. Results: The results showed that 83.2% of the couples had poor knowledge, 16% average, and 0.8% had good knowledge before the intervention. After the intervention, 60.4% of couples had poor knowledge, 31.6% average and 8% had good knowledge. The results also revealed that that the difference in mean scores of knowledge and attitudes regarding reproductive health, family planning, genetic diseases and disabilities was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Despite the mean scores of knowledge and attitude of the couples had increased after the instructional intervention, the increase in knowledge level was not very high. So the knowledge score of the couples increased just 4.3%, and only 8% of the couples had good knowledge after the instructional intervention. Therefore, to achieve a relatively stable behavior change in individuals and improving the health level of the young couples, it is recommended that more attention pay to the quality of the instructional classes. PMID:24251288

The Met Office Coupled Atmosphere/Land/Ocean/Sea-Ice Data Assimilation System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lea, Daniel; Mirouze, Isabelle; Martin, Matthew; Hines, Adrian; Guiavarch, Catherine; Shelly, Ann

2014-05-01

The Met Office has developed a weakly-coupled data assimilation (DA) system using the global coupled model HADGEM3 (Hadley Centre Global Environment Model, version 3). This model combines the atmospheric model UM (Unified Model) at 60 km horizontal resolution on 85 vertical levels, the ocean model NEMO (Nucleus for European Modeling of the Ocean) at 25 km (at the equator) horizontal resolution on 75 vertical levels, and the sea-ice model CICE at the same resolution as NEMO. The atmosphere and the ocean/sea-ice fields are coupled every 1-hour using the OASIS coupler. The coupled model is corrected using two separate 6-hour window data assimilation systems: a 4D-Var for the atmosphere with associated soil moisture content nudging and snow analysis schemes on the one hand, and a 3D-Var FGAT for the ocean and sea-ice on the other hand. The background information in the DA systems comes from a previous 6-hour forecast of the coupled model. To show the impact of coupled DA, one-month experiments have been carried out, including 1) a full atmosphere/land/ocean/sea-ice coupled DA run, 2) an atmosphere-only run forced by OSTIA SSTs and sea-ice with atmosphere and land DA, and 3) an ocean-only run forced by atmospheric fields from run 2 with ocean and sea-ice DA. In addition, 5-day forecast runs, started twice a day, have been produced from initial conditions generated by either run 1 or a combination of runs 2 and 3. The different results have been compared to each other and, whenever possible, to other references such as the Met Office atmosphere and ocean operational analyses or the OSTIA data. These all show the coupled DA system functioning well. Evidence of imbalances and initialisation shocks has also been looked for.

Coulomb-interaction induced coupling of Landau levels in intrinsic and modulation-doped quantum wells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Paul, J.; Stevens, C. E.; Zhang, H.

We have performed two-dimensional Fourier transform spectroscopy on intrinsic and modulation doped quantum wells in external magnetic fields up to 10 T. In the undoped sample, the strong Coulomb interactions and the increasing separations of the electron and hole charge distributions with increasing magnetic fields lead to a nontrivial in-plane dispersion of the magneto-excitons. Thus, the discrete and degenerate Landau levels are coupled to a continuum. The signature of this continuum is the emergence of elongated spectral line shapes at the Landau level energies, which are exposed by the multidimensional nature of our technique. Surprisingly, the elongation of the peaksmore » is completely absent in the lowest Landau level spectra obtained from the modulation doped quantum well at high fields.« less

Coulomb-interaction induced coupling of Landau levels in intrinsic and modulation-doped quantum wells

DOE PAGES

Paul, J.; Stevens, C. E.; Zhang, H.; ...

2017-06-28

We have performed two-dimensional Fourier transform spectroscopy on intrinsic and modulation doped quantum wells in external magnetic fields up to 10 T. In the undoped sample, the strong Coulomb interactions and the increasing separations of the electron and hole charge distributions with increasing magnetic fields lead to a nontrivial in-plane dispersion of the magneto-excitons. Thus, the discrete and degenerate Landau levels are coupled to a continuum. The signature of this continuum is the emergence of elongated spectral line shapes at the Landau level energies, which are exposed by the multidimensional nature of our technique. Surprisingly, the elongation of the peaksmore » is completely absent in the lowest Landau level spectra obtained from the modulation doped quantum well at high fields.« less

Coulomb-interaction induced coupling of Landau levels in intrinsic and modulation-doped quantum wells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paul, J.; Stevens, C. E.; Zhang, H.; Dey, P.; McGinty, D.; McGill, S. A.; Smith, R. P.; Reno, J. L.; Turkowski, V.; Perakis, I. E.; Hilton, D. J.; Karaiskaj, D.

2017-06-01

We have performed two-dimensional Fourier transform spectroscopy on intrinsic and modulation doped quantum wells in external magnetic fields up to 10 T. In the undoped sample, the strong Coulomb interactions and the increasing separations of the electron and hole charge distributions with increasing magnetic fields lead to a nontrivial in-plane dispersion of the magneto-excitons. Thus, the discrete and degenerate Landau levels are coupled to a continuum. The signature of this continuum is the emergence of elongated spectral line shapes at the Landau level energies, which are exposed by the multidimensional nature of our technique. Surprisingly, the elongation of the peaks is completely absent in the lowest Landau level spectra obtained from the modulation doped quantum well at high fields.

The energy-level crossing behavior and quantum Fisher information in a quantum well with spin-orbit coupling

PubMed Central

Wang, Z. H.; Zheng, Q.; Wang, Xiaoguang; Li, Yong

2016-01-01

We study the energy-level crossing behavior in a two-dimensional quantum well with the Rashba and Dresselhaus spin-orbit couplings (SOCs). By mapping the SOC Hamiltonian onto an anisotropic Rabi model, we obtain the approximate ground state and its quantum Fisher information (QFI) via performing a unitary transformation. We find that the energy-level crossing can occur in the quantum well system within the available parameters rather than in cavity and circuit quantum eletrodynamics systems. Furthermore, the influence of two kinds of SOCs on the QFI is investigated and an intuitive explanation from the viewpoint of the stationary perturbation theory is given. PMID:26931762

The energy-level crossing behavior and quantum Fisher information in a quantum well with spin-orbit coupling.

PubMed

Wang, Z H; Zheng, Q; Wang, Xiaoguang; Li, Yong

2016-03-02

We study the energy-level crossing behavior in a two-dimensional quantum well with the Rashba and Dresselhaus spin-orbit couplings (SOCs). By mapping the SOC Hamiltonian onto an anisotropic Rabi model, we obtain the approximate ground state and its quantum Fisher information (QFI) via performing a unitary transformation. We find that the energy-level crossing can occur in the quantum well system within the available parameters rather than in cavity and circuit quantum eletrodynamics systems. Furthermore, the influence of two kinds of SOCs on the QFI is investigated and an intuitive explanation from the viewpoint of the stationary perturbation theory is given.

The energy-level crossing behavior and quantum Fisher information in a quantum well with spin-orbit coupling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Z. H.; Zheng, Q.; Wang, Xiaoguang; Li, Yong

2016-03-01

We study the energy-level crossing behavior in a two-dimensional quantum well with the Rashba and Dresselhaus spin-orbit couplings (SOCs). By mapping the SOC Hamiltonian onto an anisotropic Rabi model, we obtain the approximate ground state and its quantum Fisher information (QFI) via performing a unitary transformation. We find that the energy-level crossing can occur in the quantum well system within the available parameters rather than in cavity and circuit quantum eletrodynamics systems. Furthermore, the influence of two kinds of SOCs on the QFI is investigated and an intuitive explanation from the viewpoint of the stationary perturbation theory is given.

Ripplonic Lamb Shift for Electrons on Liquid Helium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dykman, M. I.; Kono, K.; Konstantinov, D.; Lea, M. J.

2017-12-01

We study the shift of the energy levels of electrons on a helium surface due to the coupling to the quantum field of surface vibrations. As in quantum electrodynamics, the coupling is known, and it is known to lead to an ultraviolet divergence of the level shifts. We show that there are diverging terms of different nature and use the Bethe-type approach to show that they cancel each other, to leading order. This resolves the long-standing theoretical controversy and explains the existing experiments. The results allow us to study the temperature dependence of the level shift. The predictions are in good agreement with the experimental data, with no adjustable parameters.

Decisions About Testing for HIV While in a Relationship: Perspectives From an Urban, Convenience Sample of HIV-Negative Male Couples Who Have a Sexual Agreement.

PubMed

Mitchell, Jason W; Lee, Ji-Young; Woodyatt, Cory; Bauermeister, José; Sullivan, Patrick; Stephenson, Rob

2017-05-01

Many HIV-negative male couples establish a sexual agreement to help manage their HIV risk; however, less is known about their decisions about testing in this context. The present study examined whether male couples discussed HIV testing and explored their decisions about testing in the context of their sexual agreement at the individual- and couple-levels. Qualitative dyadic interview data were collected from 29 HIV-negative male couples with a sexual agreement who resided in Atlanta or Detroit; the sample was stratified by agreement type. Content analysis revealed male couples' decisions about HIV testing as routine, self-assurance, reliance and assumption on partner, beginning of relationship testers, and/or trust; decisions varied between partners and by agreement type. Findings suggest prevention efforts should help male couples integrate HIV testing into their sexual agreement that matches their agreement type and associated HIV-related risk behavior, and help shift their one-sided decisions about testing to a couple's mutually shared decision.

Predictors of relationship dissolution in lesbian, gay, and heterosexual adoptive parents.

PubMed

Goldberg, Abbie E; Garcia, Randi

2015-06-01

Little work has examined relationship dissolution or divorce in adoptive parents or same-sex parent couples. The current study examined predictors of relationship dissolution across the first 5 years of parenthood among a sample of heterosexual, lesbian, and gay male adoptive couples. Of the 190 couples in the study, 15 (7.9%) dissolved their relationships during the first 5 years of adoptive parenthood. Specifically, 7 of 57 lesbian couples (12.3%), 1 of 49 gay male couples (2.0%), and 7 of 84 heterosexual couples (8.3%) dissolved their unions. Results of our logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds of relationship dissolution were significantly higher for (a) couples who adopted a noninfant (i.e., older child); (b) participants who reported feeling less prepared for the adoption, 3 months postadoptive placement; and (c) couples in which both partners reported very low or very high preadoption levels of relationship maintenance behaviors. Findings have implications for adoption professionals seeking to support same-sex and heterosexual prospective adopters, as well as societal debates and policy regarding same-sex relationships and parenting. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Predictors of Relationship Dissolution in Lesbian, Gay, and Heterosexual Adoptive Parents

PubMed Central

Goldberg, Abbie E.; Garcia, Randi

2015-01-01

Little work has examined relationship dissolution or divorce in adoptive parents or same-sex parent couples. The current study examined predictors of relationship dissolution across the first 5 years of parenthood among a sample of heterosexual, lesbian, and gay male adoptive couples. Of the 190 couples in the study, 15 (7.9%) dissolved their relationships during the first 5 years of adoptive parenthood. Specifically, 7 of 57 lesbian couples (12.3%), 1 of 49 gay male couples (2.0%), and 7 of 84 heterosexual couples (8.3%) dissolved their unions. Results of our logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds of relationship dissolution were significantly higher for (a) couples who adopted a non-infant (i.e., older) child); (b) participants who reported feeling less prepared for the adoption, three months post-adoptive placement; and (c) couples in which both partners reported very low, or very high, pre-adoption levels of relationship maintenance behaviors. Findings have implications for adoption professionals seeking to support same-sex and heterosexual prospective adopters, as well as societal debates and policy regarding same-sex relationships and parenting. PMID:26053348

The Met Office Coupled Atmosphere/Land/Ocean/Sea-Ice Data Assimilation System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lea, Daniel; Mirouze, Isabelle; King, Robert; Martin, Matthew; Hines, Adrian

2015-04-01

The Met Office has developed a weakly-coupled data assimilation (DA) system using the global coupled model HadGEM3 (Hadley Centre Global Environment Model, version 3). At present the analysis from separate ocean and atmosphere DA systems are combined to produced coupled forecasts. The aim of coupled DA is to produce a more consistent analysis for coupled forecasts which may lead to less initialisation shock and improved forecast performance. The HadGEM3 coupled model combines the atmospheric model UM (Unified Model) at 60 km horizontal resolution on 85 vertical levels, the ocean model NEMO (Nucleus for European Modelling of the Ocean) at 25 km (at the equator) horizontal resolution on 75 vertical levels, and the sea-ice model CICE at the same resolution as NEMO. The atmosphere and the ocean/sea-ice fields are coupled every 1-hour using the OASIS coupler. The coupled model is corrected using two separate 6-hour window data assimilation systems: a 4D-Var for the atmosphere with associated soil moisture content nudging and snow analysis schemes on the one hand, and a 3D-Var FGAT for the ocean and sea-ice on the other hand. The background information in the DA systems comes from a previous 6-hour forecast of the coupled model. To isolate the impact of the coupled DA, 13-month experiments have been carried out, including 1) a full atmosphere/land/ocean/sea-ice coupled DA run, 2) an atmosphere-only run forced by OSTIA SSTs and sea-ice with atmosphere and land DA, and 3) an ocean-only run forced by atmospheric fields from run 2 with ocean and sea-ice DA. In addition, 5-day and 10-day forecast runs, have been produced from initial conditions generated by either run 1 or a combination of runs 2 and 3. The different results have been compared to each other and, whenever possible, to other references such as the Met Office atmosphere and ocean operational analyses or the OSTIA SST data. The performance of the coupled DA is similar to the existing separate ocean and atmosphere DA systems. This is despite the fact that the assimilation error covariances have not yet been tuned for coupled DA. In addition, the coupled model also exhibits some biases which do not affect the uncoupled models. An example is precipitation and run off errors affecting the ocean salinity. This of course impacts the performance of the ocean data assimilation. This does, however, highlight a particular benefit of data assimilation in that it can help to identify short term model biases by using, for example, the differences between the observations and model background (innovations) and the mean increments. Coupled DA has the distinct advantage that this gives direct information about the coupled model short term biases. By identifying the biases and developing solutions this will improve the short range coupled forecasts, and may also improve the coupled model on climate timescales.

Coupled rotor/airframe vibration analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sopher, R.; Studwell, R. E.; Cassarino, S.; Kottapalli, S. B. R.

1982-01-01

A coupled rotor/airframe vibration analysis developed as a design tool for predicting helicopter vibrations and a research tool to quantify the effects of structural properties, aerodynamic interactions, and vibration reduction devices on vehicle vibration levels is described. The analysis consists of a base program utilizing an impedance matching technique to represent the coupled rotor/airframe dynamics of the system supported by inputs from several external programs supplying sophisticated rotor and airframe aerodynamic and structural dynamic representation. The theoretical background, computer program capabilities and limited correlation results are presented in this report. Correlation results using scale model wind tunnel results show that the analysis can adequately predict trends of vibration variations with airspeed and higher harmonic control effects. Predictions of absolute values of vibration levels were found to be very sensitive to modal characteristics and results were not representative of measured values.

High-Precision Image Aided Inertial Navigation with Known Features: Observability Analysis and Performance Evaluation

PubMed Central

Jiang, Weiping; Wang, Li; Niu, Xiaoji; Zhang, Quan; Zhang, Hui; Tang, Min; Hu, Xiangyun

2014-01-01

A high-precision image-aided inertial navigation system (INS) is proposed as an alternative to the carrier-phase-based differential Global Navigation Satellite Systems (CDGNSSs) when satellite-based navigation systems are unavailable. In this paper, the image/INS integrated algorithm is modeled by a tightly-coupled iterative extended Kalman filter (IEKF). Tightly-coupled integration ensures that the integrated system is reliable, even if few known feature points (i.e., less than three) are observed in the images. A new global observability analysis of this tightly-coupled integration is presented to guarantee that the system is observable under the necessary conditions. The analysis conclusions were verified by simulations and field tests. The field tests also indicate that high-precision position (centimeter-level) and attitude (half-degree-level)-integrated solutions can be achieved in a global reference. PMID:25330046

Self-compensation of thermal lens in high-power diode pumped solid-state lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xiao-Jun

2010-02-01

We present a comprehensive model to describe the optic-thermal coupling in the diode pumped solid-state lasers (DPSSL). The thermal transition of particles at the upper laser level leads the heat-generation of laser crystals to depend on shape of the laser beam, while the laser field is also influenced by the temperature because of the thermal excitation of doped particles among various Stark levels. These effects, together with the usual thermal-optic effect that induces a fluctuation of the refraction index by an inhomogeneous temperature distribution, cause a complicated coupling between the laser field and the temperature field. We show that the optic-thermal coupling plays an important role in high-power DPSSL with larger size beam. That effect may yield a self-compensation for the thermal lens and improve the beam quality.

Changes in Dyadic Communication During and After Integrative and Traditional Behavioral Couple Therapy

PubMed Central

Baucom, Katherine J.W.; Baucom, Brian R.; Christensen, Andrew

2014-01-01

To examine changes in dyadic communication, as well as links between communication and long-term relationship outcomes, 134 distressed couples randomly assigned to either Traditional Behavioral Couple Therapy (TBCT; Jacobson & Margolin, 1979) or Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT; Jacobson & Christensen, 1998) were observed in video-recorded interactions. Observers rated discussions of relationship problems at 3 time points (pre-therapy, post-therapy, 2-year follow-up) and relationship outcomes (i.e., treatment response and relationship stability) were measured at a 5-year follow-up. Consistent with previous examinations of individual partner communication (K.J.W. Baucom et al., 2011; Sevier et al., 2008), TBCT produced greater improvements from pre-therapy to post-therapy (d = .27 – .43) and superior communication at post-therapy (d = .30 – .37). However, IBCT produced greater improvements from post-therapy to 2-year follow-up (d = .32 – .39). Both levels of, and changes in, dyadic communication were associated with relationship outcomes, even when controlling for individual communication. Our findings lend additional support for theoretical and practical differences between these two therapies and the utility of assessment at the level of the couple. Furthermore, they contribute to a broader pattern of findings in which relationship outcomes are more consistently linked with constructive communication than with destructive communication. PMID:25549210

Coupled latent differential equation with moderators: simulation and application.

PubMed

Hu, Yueqin; Boker, Steve; Neale, Michael; Klump, Kelly L

2014-03-01

Latent differential equations (LDE) use differential equations to analyze time series data. Because of the recent development of this technique, some issues critical to running an LDE model remain. In this article, the authors provide solutions to some of these issues and recommend a step-by-step procedure demonstrated on a set of empirical data, which models the interaction between ovarian hormone cycles and emotional eating. Results indicated that emotional eating is self-regulated. For instance, when people do more emotional eating than normal, they will subsequently tend to decrease their emotional eating behavior. In addition, a sudden increase will produce a stronger tendency to decrease than will a slow increase. We also found that emotional eating is coupled with the cycle of the ovarian hormone estradiol, and the peak of emotional eating occurs after the peak of estradiol. The self-reported average level of negative affect moderates the frequency of eating regulation and the coupling strength between eating and estradiol. Thus, people with a higher average level of negative affect tend to fluctuate faster in emotional eating, and their eating behavior is more strongly coupled with the hormone estradiol. Permutation tests on these empirical data supported the reliability of using LDE models to detect self-regulation and a coupling effect between two regulatory behaviors. (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

Diurnal Coupling between Testosterone and Cortisol from Adolescence to Older Adulthood

PubMed Central

Harden, K. Paige; Wrzus, Cornelia; Luong, Gloria; Grotzinger, Andrew; Bajbouj, Malek; Rauers, Antje; Wagner, Gert G.; Riediger, Michaela

2016-01-01

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes are typically conceptualized as mutually inhibitory systems; however, previous studies have found evidence for positive within-person associations (i.e., coupling) between cortisol and testosterone. One developmental hypothesis is that positive testosterone-cortisol coupling is unique to the adolescent period and that coupling becomes attenuated, or even switches direction, in adulthood. This study used a lifespan sample (N = 292, ages 11 to 88) to test for age-related differences in coupling between cortisol and testosterone in daily life. Participants provided salivary hormone samples at waking, 30 minutes after waking, and during the evening for two days. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to test the within-person and between-person associations between testosterone and cortisol. Within-person associations were further decomposed into associations due to coupled diurnal change versus coupled variability around diurnal change. Results indicated positive associations between cortisol and testosterone at all levels of analysis. Additionally, positive coupling was evident across the lifespan, even in older adults who are no longer expected to reproduce, but further investigation of developmental differences with a larger sample is necessary. Potential mechanisms and functions for positive coupling are discussed. PMID:27474909

Exposure and materiality of the secondary room and its impact on the impulse response of coupled-volume concert halls

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ermann, Michael; Johnson, Marty

2005-06-01

How does sound decay when one room is partially exposed to another (acoustically coupled)? More specifically, this research aims to quantify how operational and design decisions impact sound fields in the design of concert halls with acoustical coupling. By adding a second room to a concert hall, and designing doors to control the sonic transparency between the two rooms, designers can create a new, coupled acoustic. Concert halls use coupling to achieve a variable, longer, and distinct reverberant quality for their musicians and listeners. For this study a coupled-volume shoebox concert hall is conceived with a fixed geometric volume, form, and primary-room sound absorption. Aperture size and secondary-room sound absorption levels are established as variables. Statistical analysis of sound decay in this simulated hall suggests a highly sensitive relationship between the double-sloped condition and (1) architectural composition, as defined by the aperture size exposing the chamber and (2) materiality, as defined by the sound absorptance in the coupled volume. The theoretical, mathematical predictions are compared with coupled-volume concert hall field measurements and guidelines are suggested for future designs of coupled-volume concert halls.

HIV status and gender: a brief report from heterosexual couples in Thailand.

PubMed

Li, Li; Liang, Li-Jung; Lee, Sung-Jae; Farmer, Shu C

2012-01-01

Although the impact of HIV falls on both partners of a married couple, the burden of stress may not be necessarily shared evenly. The researchers in this study examined the relations among HIV status, gender, and depressive symptoms among 152 married or cohabitating couples living with HIV in the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand. Depressive symptoms were assessed using a 15-item depressive symptom screening test that was developed and used previously in Thailand. Among the 152 couples, 59% were couples in which both members were people living with HIV (seroconcordant; both people living with HIV couples), 28% had only female members with HIV (serodiscordant; females living with HIV couples), and 13% had only male members with HIV (serodiscordant; males living with HIV couples). The prevalence of depressive symptoms between seroconcordant and serodiscordant groups was similar. However, females living with HIV reported significantly higher levels of depressive symptoms, regardless of their partners' HIV status. Future prevention programs focusing on serodiscordant couples should be planned to target HIV risk, as well as emphasis on mental health, with a particular focus on women's increased susceptibility to negative mental health outcomes.

The influence of wives' and husbands' education levels on contraceptive method choice in Nepal, 1996-2006.

PubMed

Gubhaju, Bina

2009-12-01

The association between education level and fertility, contraceptive behavior and method choice has been extensively researched, but little is known about how the education differential between husbands and wives in Nepal may influence the choice of specific methods. Data collected from currently married, nonpregnant women aged 15-49 in the Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys of 1996, 2001 and 2006 were analyzed to identify shifts in the education levels of husbands and wives and the influence of those shifts on couples' current contraceptive method use over the past decade. Multinomial logistic regression models assessed associations between method choice and each partner's education level, the education differential between partners and a combined education measure. Although the wife's education level was associated with the type of method used by the couple, the husband's education level had more influence on the use of male sterilization and condoms. For example, men with any secondary or higher education were more likely than those with none to rely on either of these methods (relative risk ratios, 1.6-2.1). Furthermore, couples in which the husband had at least six more years of education than the wife also showed increased reliance on male sterilization or condoms (1.6-1.8). Differences in the use of any method of family planning by education level have narrowed considerably in the past decade, although differentials remain in the use of some methods. A better understanding of how wives' and husbands' relative educational attainment affects decisions on their contraceptive choices is needed, particularly when both education levels and contraceptive use are increasing.

Addressing Wife Abuse in Mexican Immigrant Couples: Challenges for Family Social Workers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hancock, Tina

2006-01-01

This article addresses wife abuse in undocumented Mexican immigrant couples and suggests an ecosystems treatment approach that takes into consideration the structural forces of oppression and discrimination on abusive behaviors in the home and combines individual, family and community level interventions to help immigrant men stop the abuse.…

Multiscale Reactive Molecular Dynamics

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-08-15

biology cannot be described without considering electronic and nuclear-level dynamics and their coupling to slower, cooperative motions of the system ...coupling to slower, cooperative motions of the system . These inherently multiscale problems require computationally efficient and accurate methods to...condensed phase systems with computational efficiency orders of magnitudes greater than currently possible with ab initio simulation methods, thus

Happy Spouses, Happy Parents? Family Relationships among Finnish and Dutch Dual Earners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Malinen, Kaisa; Kinnunen, Ulla; Tolvanen, Asko; Ronka, Anna; Wierda-Boer, Hilde; Gerris, Jan

2010-01-01

In this study links between spousal and parent-child relationships among Finnish (n = 157 couples) and Dutch (n = 276 couples) dual earners with young children were examined using paired questionnaire data. Variable-oriented analyses (structural equation modeling with a multigroup procedure) supported the spillover hypothesis, as higher levels of…

Recent Advances in Modeling of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer and Land Surface in the Coupled WRF-CMAQ Model

EPA Science Inventory

Advances in the land surface model (LSM) and planetary boundary layer (PBL) components of the WRF-CMAQ coupled meteorology and air quality modeling system are described. The aim of these modifications was primarily to improve the modeling of ground level concentrations of trace c...

G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 positively regulates epithelial cell migration

PubMed Central

Penela, Petronila; Ribas, Catalina; Aymerich, Ivette; Eijkelkamp, Niels; Barreiro, Olga; Heijnen, Cobi J; Kavelaars, Annemieke; Sánchez-Madrid, Francisco; Mayor, Federico

2008-01-01

Cell migration requires integration of signals arising from both the extracellular matrix and messengers acting through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). We find that increased levels of G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2), a key player in GPCR regulation, potentiate migration of epithelial cells towards fibronectin, whereas such process is decreased in embryonic fibroblasts from hemizygous GRK2 mice or upon knockdown of GRK2 expression. Interestingly, the GRK2 effect on fibronectin-mediated cell migration involves the paracrine/autocrine activation of a sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) Gi-coupled GPCR. GRK2 positively modulates the activity of the Rac/PAK/MEK/ERK pathway in response to adhesion and S1P by a mechanism involving the phosphorylation-dependent, dynamic interaction of GRK2 with GIT1, a key scaffolding protein in cell migration processes. Furthermore, decreased GRK2 levels in hemizygous mice result in delayed wound healing rate in vivo, consistent with a physiological role of GRK2 as a regulator of coordinated integrin and GPCR-directed epithelial cell migration. PMID:18369319

Trace elements in seminal plasma of men from infertile couples.

PubMed

Guzikowski, Wojciech; Szynkowska, Małgorzata I; Motak-Pochrzęst, Hanna; Pawlaczyk, Aleksandra; Sypniewski, Stanisław

2015-06-19

An analysis of lead, zinc, cadmium and other trace elements in semen of men from infertile couples was performed to determine the association between abnormal semen parameters and enviromental or occupational exposure to some trace metals. Presence of manganese, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, cadmium, tin and lead was measured in seminal plasma of 34 men from infertile couples using spectrometry with time-of-flight analysis. Correlations among sperm parameters and trace metals were determined using cluster analysis and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Abnormally high concentrations of lead, cadmium, zinc and cobalt were found in 23 seminal plasma of men from infertile couples. The most consistent evidence was determined for an association between high cadmium concentration in seminal plasma and sperm count, motility and morphology below reference limits (p < 0.01). A correlation of significantly increased tin level and reduced sperm count in semen of men with limited fertility potential was observed (p = 0.04). In our study we observed a correlation of tin level with sperm count in semen of men with limited fertility potential.

The Integrated Plasma Simulator: A Flexible Python Framework for Coupled Multiphysics Simulation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Foley, Samantha S; Elwasif, Wael R; Bernholdt, David E

2011-11-01

High-fidelity coupled multiphysics simulations are an increasingly important aspect of computational science. In many domains, however, there has been very limited experience with simulations of this sort, therefore research in coupled multiphysics often requires computational frameworks with significant flexibility to respond to the changing directions of the physics and mathematics. This paper presents the Integrated Plasma Simulator (IPS), a framework designed for loosely coupled simulations of fusion plasmas. The IPS provides users with a simple component architecture into which a wide range of existing plasma physics codes can be inserted as components. Simulations can take advantage of multiple levels ofmore » parallelism supported in the IPS, and can be controlled by a high-level ``driver'' component, or by other coordination mechanisms, such as an asynchronous event service. We describe the requirements and design of the framework, and how they were implemented in the Python language. We also illustrate the flexibility of the framework by providing examples of different types of simulations that utilize various features of the IPS.« less

Electronic structure and electron-phonon coupling in TiH$$_2$$

DOE PAGES

Shanavas, Kavungal Veedu; Lindsay, Lucas R.; Parker, David S.

2016-06-15

Calculations using first principles methods and strong coupling theory are carried out to understand the electronic structure and superconductivity in cubic and tetragonal TiHmore » $$_2$$. A large electronic density of states at the Fermi level in the cubic phase arises from Ti-$$t_{2g}$$ states and leads to a structural instability against tetragonal distortion at low temperatures. However, constraining the in-plane lattice constants diminishes the energy gain associated with the tetragonal distortion, allowing the cubic phase to be stable at low temperatures. Furthermore, calculated phonon dispersions show decoupled acoustic and optic modes arising from Ti and H vibrations, respectively and frequencies of optic modes to be rather high. The cubic phase has a large electron-phonon coupling parameter $$\\lambda$$ and critical temperature of several K. Contribution of the hydrogen sublattice to $$\\lambda$$ is found to be small in this material, which we understand from strong coupling theory to be due to the small H-$s$ DOS at the Fermi level and high energy of hydrogen modes at the tetrahedral sites.« less

Who benefits from cognitive behavioral therapy for vaginismus?

PubMed

Kabakçi, Elif; Batur, Senar

2003-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of a group of Turkish vaginismus patients who benefited from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and to study which factors this treatment model changes. Twenty-eight couples who applied to Psychiatry Clinic of Hacettepe University Hospital, Ankara, for treatment of vaginismus within the 6-month period participated in the study. Fourteen subjects quit the therapy after the initial assessment sessions. Other couples successfully completed the treatment. We assessed all the couples that completed the CBT at three times: during the initial session, at the end of the treatment, and during the follow-up session (4 weeks after the end of the treatment). In terms of anxiety levels, and quality of marital and sexual relationships, the characteristics of the couples that quit the therapy could not be identified. But we found that all of the participants were treated effectively by CBT. At the end of the therapy, anxiety levels of the women decreased. There also were improvements on parameters related to marital harmony and overall sexual functioning of the women. We discuss the findings of our study within a cultural perspective.

Sea level driven marsh expansion in a coupled model of marsh erosion and migration

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kirwan, Matthew L.; Walters, David C.; Reay, William G.; Carr, Joel

2016-01-01

Coastal wetlands are among the most valuable ecosystems on Earth, where ecosystem services such as flood protection depend nonlinearly on wetland size and are threatened by sea level rise and coastal development. Here we propose a simple model of marsh migration into adjacent uplands and couple it with existing models of seaward edge erosion and vertical soil accretion to explore how ecosystem connectivity influences marsh size and response to sea level rise. We find that marsh loss is nearly inevitable where topographic and anthropogenic barriers limit migration. Where unconstrained by barriers, however, rates of marsh migration are much more sensitive to accelerated sea level rise than rates of edge erosion. This behavior suggests a counterintuitive, natural tendency for marsh expansion with sea level rise and emphasizes the disparity between coastal response to climate change with and without human intervention.

Emergent Behavior of Coupled Barrier Island - Resort Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McNamara, D. E.; Werner, B. T.

2004-12-01

Barrier islands are attractive sites for resorts. Natural barrier islands experience beach erosion and island overwash during storms, beach accretion and dune building during inter-storm periods, and migration up the continental shelf as sea level rises. Beach replenishment, artificial dune building, seawalls, jetties and groins have been somewhat effective in protecting resorts against erosion and overwash during storms, but it is unknown how the coupled system will respond to long-term sea level rise. We investigate coupled barrier island - resort systems using an agent-based model with three components: natural barrier islands divided into a series of alongshore cells; resorts controlled by markets for tourism and hotel purchases; and coupling via storm damage to resorts and resort protection by government agents. Modeled barrier islands change by beach erosion, island overwash and inlet cutting during storms, and beach accretion, tidal delta growth and dune and vegetation growth between storms. In the resort hotel market, developer agents build hotels and hotel owning agents purchase them using predictions of future revenue and property appreciation, with the goal of maximizing discounted utility. In the tourism market, hotel owning agents set room rental prices to maximize profit and tourist agents choose vacation destinations maximizing a utility based on beach width, price and word-of-mouth. Government agents build seawalls, groins and jetties, and widen the beach and build up dunes by adding sand to protect resorts from storms, enhance beach quality, and maximize resort revenue. Results indicate that barrier islands and resorts evolve in a coupled manner to resort size saturation, with resorts protected against small-to-intermediate-scale storms under fairly stable sea level. Under extended, rapidly rising sea level, protection measures enhance the effect of large storms, leading to emergent behavior in the form of limit cycles or barrier submergence, depending on the relative rates of resort recovery from storms and sea level rise. The model is applied to Ocean City, Maryland and neighboring undeveloped Assateague Island National Seashore. Supported by the National Science Foundation, Geology and Paleontology Program, and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation

Convection equation modeling: A non-iterative direct matrix solution algorithm for use with SINDA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schrage, Dean S.

1993-01-01

The determination of the boundary conditions for a component-level analysis, applying discrete finite element and finite difference modeling techniques often requires an analysis of complex coupled phenomenon that cannot be described algebraically. For example, an analysis of the temperature field of a coldplate surface with an integral fluid loop requires a solution to the parabolic heat equation and also requires the boundary conditions that describe the local fluid temperature. However, the local fluid temperature is described by a convection equation that can only be solved with the knowledge of the locally-coupled coldplate temperatures. Generally speaking, it is not computationally efficient, and sometimes, not even possible to perform a direct, coupled phenomenon analysis of the component-level and boundary condition models within a single analysis code. An alternative is to perform a disjoint analysis, but transmit the necessary information between models during the simulation to provide an indirect coupling. For this approach to be effective, the component-level model retains full detail while the boundary condition model is simplified to provide a fast, first-order prediction of the phenomenon in question. Specifically for the present study, the coldplate structure is analyzed with a discrete, numerical model (SINDA) while the fluid loop convection equation is analyzed with a discrete, analytical model (direct matrix solution). This indirect coupling allows a satisfactory prediction of the boundary condition, while not subjugating the overall computational efficiency of the component-level analysis. In the present study a discussion of the complete analysis of the derivation and direct matrix solution algorithm of the convection equation is presented. Discretization is analyzed and discussed to extend of solution accuracy, stability and computation speed. Case studies considering a pulsed and harmonic inlet disturbance to the fluid loop are analyzed to assist in the discussion of numerical dissipation and accuracy. In addition, the issues of code melding or integration with standard class solvers such as SINDA are discussed to advise the user of the potential problems to be encountered.

Grief reactions of couples to perinatal loss: A one-year prospective follow-up.

PubMed

Tseng, Ying-Fen; Cheng, Hsiu-Rong; Chen, Yu-Ping; Yang, Shu-Fei; Cheng, Pi-Tzu

2017-12-01

To explore couples' perceptions of the effects of perinatal loss on their marital relationship, social support and grief 1 year postloss, and analyse what factors changed the severity of their grief. Perinatal losses are traumatic events in the lives of families and can have serious long-term consequences for the psychological health of parents and any subsequent children. A prospective follow-up study. We recruited, at a teaching hospital in southern Taiwan, a convenience sample of 30 couples whose babies either miscarried or were stillborn. At 1 month (T1), 3 months (T2), 6 months (T3) and 1 year (T4) after the pregnancy loss, all participants completed four questionnaires. To analyse the changing status of their grief and its related factors, we used a generalised estimating equation (GEE) to account for correlations between repeated observations. Postbereavement grief levels fell over the four time-points. Mothers reported feeling more grief than did the fathers. Couples with a history of infertility, no religious beliefs or no living children before the loss felt more grief from a perinatal miscarriage or stillbirth. Furthermore, couples reported more grief if their marital satisfaction level was low, if their socioemotional support from husband's parents was low or if they had never participated in a ritual for their deceased baby. Six months postloss is the crucial period for bereaved parents after a perinatal loss. Being a mother, having no previous living children and low-level socioemotional support from the husband's parents are significant high-risk factors for a high level of grief 1 year after perinatal death. We recommend that health professionals increase their ability to identify the factors that psychologically affect postloss grief. Active postloss follow-up programmes should focus on these factors to offer specific support and counselling. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Promotion of couples' voluntary counselling and testing for HIV through influential networks in two African capital cities

PubMed Central

Allen, Susan; Karita, Etienne; Chomba, Elwyn; Roth, David L; Telfair, Joseph; Zulu, Isaac; Clark, Leslie; Kancheya, Nzali; Conkling, Martha; Stephenson, Rob; Bekan, Brigitte; Kimbrell, Katherine; Dunham, Steven; Henderson, Faith; Sinkala, Moses; Carael, Michel; Haworth, Alan

2007-01-01

Background Most new HIV infections in Africa are acquired from cohabiting heterosexual partners. Couples' Voluntary Counselling and Testing (CVCT) is an effective prevention strategy for this group. We present our experience with a community-based program for the promotion of CVCT in Kigali, Rwanda and Lusaka, Zambia. Methods Influence Network Agents (INAs) from the health, religious, non-governmental, and private sectors were trained to invite couples for CVCT. Predictors of successful promotion were identified using a multi-level hierarchical analysis. Results In 4 months, 9,900 invitations were distributed by 61 INAs, with 1,411 (14.3%) couples requesting CVCT. INAs in Rwanda distributed fewer invitations (2,680 vs. 7,220) and had higher response rates (26.9% vs. 9.6%), than INAs in Zambia. Context of the invitation event, including a discreet location such as the INA's home (OR 3.3–3.4), delivery of the invitation to both partners in the couple (OR 1.6–1.7) or to someone known to the INA (OR 1.7–1.8), and use of public endorsement (OR 1.7–1.8) were stronger predictors of success than INA or couple-level characteristics. Conclusion Predictors of successful CVCT promotion included strategies that can be easily implemented in Africa. As new resources become available for Africans with HIV, CVCT should be broadly implemented as a point of entry for prevention, care and support. PMID:18072974

Relaxation dynamics of a driven two-level system coupled to a Bose-Einstein condensate: application to quantum dot-dipolar exciton gas hybrid systems.

PubMed

Kovalev, Vadim M; Tse, Wang-Kong

2017-11-22

We develop a microscopic theory for the relaxation dynamics of an optically pumped two-level system (TLS) coupled to a bath of weakly interacting Bose gas. Using Keldysh formalism and diagrammatic perturbation theory, expressions for the relaxation times of the TLS Rabi oscillations are derived when the boson bath is in the normal state and the Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) state. We apply our general theory to consider an irradiated quantum dot coupled with a boson bath consisting of a two-dimensional dipolar exciton gas. When the bath is in the BEC regime, relaxation of the Rabi oscillations is due to both condensate and non-condensate fractions of the bath bosons for weak TLS-light coupling and pre dominantly due to the non-condensate fraction for strong TLS-light coupling. Our theory also shows that a phase transition of the bath from the normal to the BEC state strongly influences the relaxation rate of the TLS Rabi oscillations. The TLS relaxation rate is approximately independent of the pump field frequency and monotonically dependent on the field strength when the bath is in the low-temperature regime of the normal phase. Phase transition of the dipolar exciton gas leads to a non-monotonic dependence of the TLS relaxation rate on both the pump field frequency and field strength, providing a characteristic signature for the detection of BEC phase transition of the coupled dipolar exciton gas.

China's community-based strategy of universal preconception care in rural areas at a population level using a novel risk classification system for stratifying couples´ preconception health status.

PubMed

Zhou, Qiongjie; Zhang, Shikun; Wang, Qiaomei; Shen, Haiping; Tian, Weidong; Chen, Jingqi; Acharya, Ganesh; Li, Xiaotian

2016-12-28

Preconception care (PCC) is recommended for optimizing a woman's health prior to pregnancy to minimize the risk of adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the impact of strategy and a novel risk classification model of China´s "National Preconception Health Care Project" (NPHCP) in identifying risk factors and stratifying couples' preconception health status. We performed a secondary analysis of data collected by NPHCP during April 2010 to December 2012 in 220 selected counties in China. All couples enrolled in the project accepted free preconception health examination, risk evaluation, health education and medical advice. Risk factors were categorized into five preconception risk classes based on their amenability to prevention and treatment: A-avoidable risk factors, B- benefiting from targeted medical intervention, C-controllable but requiring close monitoring and treatment during pregnancy, D-diagnosable prenatally but not modifiable preconceptionally, X-pregnancy not advisable. Information on each couple´s socio-demographic and health status was recorded and further analyzed. Among the 2,142,849 couples who were enrolled to this study, the majority (92.36%) were from rural areas with low education levels (89.2% women and 88.3% men had education below university level). A total of 1463266 (68.29%) couples had one or more preconception risk factors mainly of category A, B and C, among which 46.25% were women and 51.92% were men. Category A risk factors were more common among men compared with women (38.13% versus 11.24%; P = 0.000). This project provided new insights into preconception health of Chinese couples of reproductive age. More than half of the male partners planning to father a child, were exposed to risk factors during the preconception period, suggesting that an integrated approach to PCC including both women and men is justified. Stratification based on the new risk classification model demonstrated that a majority of the risk factors are avoidable, or preventable by medical intervention. Therefore, universal free PCC can be expected to improve pregnancy outcomes in rural China.

The Economic Foundations of Cohabiting Couples' Union Transitions.

PubMed

Ishizuka, Patrick

2018-04-01

In recent decades, cohabitation has become an increasingly important relationship context for U.S. adults and their children, a union status characterized by high levels of instability. To understand why some cohabiting couples marry but others separate, researchers have drawn on theories emphasizing the benefits of specialization, the persistence of the male breadwinner norm, low income as a source of stress and conflict, and rising economic standards associated with marriage (the marriage bar). Because of conflicting evidence and data constraints, however, important theoretical questions remain. This study uses survival analysis with prospective monthly data from nationally representative panels of the Survey of Income and Program Participation from 1996-2013 to test alternative theories of how money and work affect whether cohabiting couples marry or separate. Analyses indicate that the economic foundations of cohabiting couples' union transitions do not lie in economic specialization or only men's ability to be good providers. Instead, results for marriage support marriage bar theory: adjusting for couples' absolute earnings, increases in wealth and couples' earnings relative to a standard associated with marriage strongly predict marriage. For dissolution, couples with higher and more equal earnings are significantly less likely to separate. Findings demonstrate that within-couple earnings equality promotes stability, and between-couple inequalities in economic resources are critical in producing inequalities in couples' relationship outcomes.

Rhythmic Components in Extracranial Brain Signals Reveal Multifaceted Task Modulation of Overlapping Neuronal Activity

PubMed Central

van Ede, Freek; Maris, Eric

2016-01-01

Oscillatory neuronal activity is implicated in many cognitive functions, and its phase coupling between sensors may reflect networks of communicating neuronal populations. Oscillatory activity is often studied using extracranial recordings and compared between experimental conditions. This is challenging, because there is overlap between sensor-level activity generated by different sources, and this can obscure differential experimental modulations of these sources. Additionally, in extracranial data, sensor-level phase coupling not only reflects communicating populations, but can also be generated by a current dipole, whose sensor-level phase coupling does not reflect source-level interactions. We present a novel method, which is capable of separating and characterizing sources on the basis of their phase coupling patterns as a function of space, frequency and time (trials). Importantly, this method depends on a plausible model of a neurobiological rhythm. We present this model and an accompanying analysis pipeline. Next, we demonstrate our approach, using magnetoencephalographic (MEG) recordings during a cued tactile detection task as a case study. We show that the extracted components have overlapping spatial maps and frequency content, which are difficult to resolve using conventional pairwise measures. Because our decomposition also provides trial loadings, components can be readily contrasted between experimental conditions. Strikingly, we observed heterogeneity in alpha and beta sources with respect to whether their activity was suppressed or enhanced as a function of attention and performance, and this happened both in task relevant and irrelevant regions. This heterogeneity contrasts with the common view that alpha and beta amplitude over sensory areas are always negatively related to attention and performance. PMID:27336159

Partner Accommodation Moderates Treatment Outcomes for Couple Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

PubMed Central

Fredman, Steffany J.; Pukay-Martin, Nicole D.; Macdonald, Alexandra; Wagner, Anne C.; Vorstenbosch, Valerie; Monson, Candice M.

2015-01-01

Objective Partner accommodation of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms (i.e., altering one’s own behaviors to minimize patient distress and/or relationship conflict due to patients’ PTSD symptoms) has been shown to be positively associated with patient and partner psychopathology and negatively associated with patient and partner relationship satisfaction cross-sectionally. However, the prognostic value of partner accommodation in treatment outcomes is unknown. The goals of the present study were to determine if partner accommodation decreases as a function of couple therapy for PTSD and if pretreatment partner accommodation moderates the efficacy of couple therapy for PTSD. Method Thirty-nine patients with PTSD and their intimate partners (n = 39) were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy (CBCT) for PTSD (Monson & Fredman, 2012) and received CBCT for PTSD immediately or after three months of waiting. Blinded assessors determined clinician-rated PTSD symptoms and patient-rated PTSD and depressive symptoms and relationship satisfaction at baseline, mid-treatment/4 weeks of waiting, and posttreatment/12 weeks of waiting. Results Contrary to expectation, partner accommodation levels did not change over time for either treatment condition. However, baseline partner accommodation significantly moderated treatment outcomes. Higher levels of partner accommodation were associated with greater improvements in PTSD, depressive symptoms, and relationship satisfaction among patients receiving CBCT for PTSD compared with waiting list. At lower levels of partner accommodation, patients in both groups improved or remained at low levels of these outcomes. Conclusions Individuals with PTSD who have more accommodating partners may be particularly well-suited for couple therapy for PTSD. PMID:26501498

Optical temperature sensing behavior of Er3+/Yb3+/Tm3+:Y2O3 nanoparticles based on thermally and non-thermally coupled levels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Guangrun; Lei, Ruoshan; Huang, Feifei; Wang, Huanping; Zhao, Shilong; Xu, Shiqing

2018-01-01

Er3+/Yb3+/Tm3+ triply doped Y2O3 nanoparticles have been synthesized by solute combustion method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrate that the prepared particles are cubic Y2O3 phase with the average size of ∼49 nm. The blue (Tm3+: 1G4→3H6), green (Er3+: 2H11/2, 4S3/2→4I15/2) and red (Er3+: 4F9/2→4I15/2) upconversion (UC) emissions are observed upon a 980 nm excitation. Applying the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) technique, the optical temperature sensing behaviors are studied based on thermally coupled levels (2H11/2 and 4S3/2 of Er3+) and non-thermally coupled levels (1G4(b) (Tm3+) and 2H11/2 (Er3+)), respectively. The results show that the absolute sensing sensitivity is much higher in the entire experimental temperature range, when the non-thermally coupled levels with different temperature dependences (1G4(b) (Tm3+) and 2H11/2 (Er3+)) are selected as the thermometric index. The maximum absolute sensitivity is found to be as high as ∼1640 ×10-4 K-1 at 573 K. This demonstrates that an optical temperature sensor with high performance can be designed based on the Er3+/Yb3+/Tm3+:Y2O3 nanoparticles.

Orbital Express fluid transfer demonstration system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rotenberger, Scott; SooHoo, David; Abraham, Gabriel

2008-04-01

Propellant resupply of orbiting spacecraft is no longer in the realm of high risk development. The recently concluded Orbital Express (OE) mission included a fluid transfer demonstration that operated the hardware and control logic in space, bringing the Technology Readiness Level to a solid TRL 7 (demonstration of a system prototype in an operational environment). Orbital Express (funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, DARPA) was launched aboard an Atlas-V rocket on March 9th, 2007. The mission had the objective of demonstrating technologies needed for routine servicing of spacecraft, namely autonomous rendezvous and docking, propellant resupply, and orbital replacement unit transfer. The demonstration system used two spacecraft. A servicing vehicle (ASTRO) performed multiple dockings with the client (NextSat) spacecraft, and performed a variety of propellant transfers in addition to exchanges of a battery and computer. The fluid transfer and propulsion system onboard ASTRO, in addition to providing the six degree-of-freedom (6 DOF) thruster system for rendezvous and docking, demonstrated autonomous transfer of monopropellant hydrazine to or from the NextSat spacecraft 15 times while on orbit. The fluid transfer system aboard the NextSat vehicle was designed to simulate a variety of client systems, including both blowdown pressurization and pressure regulated propulsion systems. The fluid transfer demonstrations started with a low level of autonomy, where ground controllers were allowed to review the status of the demonstration at numerous points before authorizing the next steps to be performed. The final transfers were performed at a full autonomy level where the ground authorized the start of a transfer sequence and then monitored data as the transfer proceeded. The major steps of a fluid transfer included the following: mate of the coupling, leak check of the coupling, venting of the coupling, priming of the coupling, fluid transfer, gauging of receiving tank, purging of coupling and de-mate of the coupling.

Does Marriage Make Us Healthier? Inter-Country Comparative Evidence from China, Japan, and Korea

PubMed Central

Fu, Rong; Noguchi, Haruko

2016-01-01

Objectives This study focuses on East Asian countries and investigates the difference in the marriage premium on the health-marriage protection effect (MPE) between younger and older generations and the intra-couple education concordance effect (ECE) on the health of married individuals. This study used inter-country comparative data from China, Japan, and Korea. Methods This study focused on individuals (n = 7,938) in China, Japan, and Korea who were sampled from the 2010 East Asian Social Survey. To investigate MPE and ECE, four health indicators were utilized: a physical and mental components summary (PCS and MCS), self-rated health status (Dself), and happiness level (Dhappy). Ordinary least squares regression was conducted by country- and gender-specific subsamples. Results We found that the MPE on PCS, MCS, and Dself was more significant for the older generation than for the younger generation in both China and Japan, whereas the results were inconclusive in Korea. With regard to the ECE on happiness (Dhappy), for both men and women, couples tend to be happier when both the husband and the wife are well educated (“higher balanced marriage”) compared to couples with a lower level of educational achievement (“lower balanced marriage”). Significant benefits from a “higher balanced marriage” on MCS and Dself were observed for women only. In contrast, no statistically significant differences in health status were observed between “higher balanced marriage” couples and couples with different levels of educational achievements (“upward marriage” or “downward marriage”). Conclusions This study found that (1) the MPE was more significant for the older generation, and (2) the health gap, particularly the happiness gap, between higher- and lower-balanced married couples was significant. The inter-country comparative findings are useful to explain how the role of marriage (and therefore of family) on health has been diluted due to the progress of industrialization and modernization. PMID:26862896

Does Marriage Make Us Healthier? Inter-Country Comparative Evidence from China, Japan, and Korea.

PubMed

Fu, Rong; Noguchi, Haruko

2016-01-01

This study focuses on East Asian countries and investigates the difference in the marriage premium on the health-marriage protection effect (MPE) between younger and older generations and the intra-couple education concordance effect (ECE) on the health of married individuals. This study used inter-country comparative data from China, Japan, and Korea. This study focused on individuals (n = 7,938) in China, Japan, and Korea who were sampled from the 2010 East Asian Social Survey. To investigate MPE and ECE, four health indicators were utilized: a physical and mental components summary (PCS and MCS), self-rated health status (Dself), and happiness level (Dhappy). Ordinary least squares regression was conducted by country- and gender-specific subsamples. We found that the MPE on PCS, MCS, and Dself was more significant for the older generation than for the younger generation in both China and Japan, whereas the results were inconclusive in Korea. With regard to the ECE on happiness (Dhappy), for both men and women, couples tend to be happier when both the husband and the wife are well educated ("higher balanced marriage") compared to couples with a lower level of educational achievement ("lower balanced marriage"). Significant benefits from a "higher balanced marriage" on MCS and Dself were observed for women only. In contrast, no statistically significant differences in health status were observed between "higher balanced marriage" couples and couples with different levels of educational achievements ("upward marriage" or "downward marriage"). This study found that (1) the MPE was more significant for the older generation, and (2) the health gap, particularly the happiness gap, between higher- and lower-balanced married couples was significant. The inter-country comparative findings are useful to explain how the role of marriage (and therefore of family) on health has been diluted due to the progress of industrialization and modernization.

The effect of a multifaceted empowerment strategy on decision making about the number of embryos transferred in in vitro fertilisation: randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

van Peperstraten, Arno; Nelen, Willianne; Grol, Richard; Zielhuis, Gerhard; Adang, Eddy; Stalmeier, Peep; Hermens, Rosella; Kremer, Jan

2010-09-30

To evaluate the effects of a multifaceted empowerment strategy on the actual use of single embryo transfer after in vitro fertilisation. Randomised controlled trial. Five in vitro fertilisation clinics in the Netherlands. 308 couples (women aged <40) on the waiting list for a first in vitro fertilisation cycle. The multifaceted strategy aimed to empower couples in deciding how many embryos should be transferred. The strategy consisted of a decision aid, support of a nurse specialising in in vitro fertilisation, and the offer of reimbursement by way of an extra treatment cycle. The control group received standard care for in vitro fertilisation. Use of single embryo transfer in the first and second treatment cycles as well as decision making variables and costs of the empowerment strategy. After the first treatment cycle, single embryo transfer was used by 43% (65/152) of couples in the intervention group and 32% (50/156) in the control group (difference 11%, 95% confidence interval 0% to 22%; P=0.05). After the second treatment cycle, single embryo transfer was used by 26% (14/154) of couples in the intervention group compared with 16% (8/51) in the control group (difference 10%, -6% to 26%; P=0.20). Compared with couples receiving standard care, those receiving the empowerment strategy had significantly higher empowerment and knowledge levels but no differences in anxiety levels. Mean total savings per couple in the intervention group were calculated to be €169.75 (£146.77; $219.12). A multifaceted empowerment strategy encouraged use of single embryo transfer, increased patients' knowledge, reduced costs, and had no effect on levels of anxiety or depression. This strategy could therefore be an important tool to reduce the twin pregnancy rate after in vitro fertilisation. This trial did not, however, demonstrate the anticipated 25% difference in use of single embryo transfer of the power calculation. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00315029.

Coupling of methylmercury uptake with respiration and water pumping in freshwater tilapia Oreochromis niloticus.

PubMed

Wang, Rui; Wong, Ming-Hung; Wang, Wen-Xiong

2011-09-01

The relationships among the uptake of toxic methylmercury (MeHg) and two important fish physiological processes-respiration and water pumping--in the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were explored in the present study. Coupled radiotracer and respirometric techniques were applied to measure simultaneously the uptake rates of MeHg, water, and oxygen under various environmental conditions (temperature, dissolved oxygen level, and water flow). A higher temperature enhanced MeHg influx and the oxygen consumption rate but had no effect on the water uptake, indicating the influence of metabolism on MeHg uptake. The fish showed a high tolerance to hypoxia, and the oxygen consumption rate was not affected until the dissolved oxygen concentration decreased to extremely low levels (below 1 mg/L). The MeHg and water uptake rates increased simultaneously as the dissolved oxygen level decreased, suggesting the coupling of water flux and MeHg uptake. The influence of fish swimming performance on MeHg uptake was also investigated for the first time. Rapidly swimming fish showed significantly higher uptake rates of MeHg, water, and oxygen, confirming the coupling relationships among respiration, water pumping, and metal uptake. Moreover, these results support that MeHg uptake is a rate-limiting process involving energy. Our study demonstrates the importance of physiological processes in understanding mercury bioaccumulation in fluctuating aquatic environments. Copyright © 2011 SETAC.

[Coupling coordination evaluation method between eco-environment quality and economic development level in contiguous special poverty-stricken areas of China].

PubMed

Wang, Yan-hui; Li, Jing-yi

2015-05-01

It is one of the important strategies in the new period of national poverty alleviation and development to maintain the basic balance between the ecological environment and economic development, and to promote the coordinated sustainable development of economy and ecological environment. Taking six contiguous special poverty-stricken areas as the study areas, a coupling coordination evaluation method between eco-environment quality and economic development level in contiguous special poverty-stricken areas was explored in this paper. The region' s ecological poverty index system was proposed based on the natural attribute of ecological environment, and the ecological environment quality evaluation method was built up by using AHP weighting method, followed by the design of the coupling coordination evaluation method between the ecological environment indices and the county economic poverty comprehensive indices. The coupling coordination degrees were calculated and their spatial representation differentiations were analyzed respectively at district, province, city, and county scales. Results showed that approximately half of the counties in the study areas achieved the harmoniously coordinated development. However, the ecological environmental quality and the economic development in most counties could not be synchronized, where mountains, rivers and other geographic features existed roughly as a dividing line of the coordinated development types. The phenomena of dislocation between the ecological environment and economic development in state-level poor counties were more serious than those of local poor counties.

A randomized clinical trial of the effectiveness of premarital intervention: moderators of divorce outcomes.

PubMed

Markman, Howard J; Rhoades, Galena K; Stanley, Scott M; Peterson, Kristina M

2013-02-01

This study examined the effects of premarital relationship intervention on divorce during the first 8 years of first marriage. Religious organizations were randomly assigned to have couples marrying through them complete the Prevention and Relationship Education Program (PREP) or their naturally occurring premarital services. Results indicated no differences in overall divorce rates between naturally occurring services (n = 44), PREP delivered by clergy at religious organizations (n = 66), or PREP delivered by professionals at a university (n = 83). Three moderators were also tested. Measured premaritally and before intervention, the level of negativity of couples' interactions moderated effects. Specifically, couples observed to have higher levels of negative communication in a video task were more likely to divorce if they received PREP than if they received naturally occurring services; couples with lower levels of premarital negative communication were more likely to remain married if they received PREP. A history of physical aggression in the current relationship before marriage and before intervention showed a similar pattern as a moderator, but the effect was only marginally significant. Family-of-origin background (parental divorce and/or aggression) was not a significant moderator of prevention effects across the two kinds of services. Implications for defining risk, considering divorce as a positive versus negative outcome, the practice of premarital relationship education, and social policy are discussed. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved.

Photoionization of ground and excited levels of P II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nahar, Sultana N.

2017-01-01

Photoionization cross section (σPI) of P II, (hν + P II → P III + e), from ground and a large number of excited levels are presented. The study includes the resonant structures and the characteristics of the background in photoionization cross sections. The present calculations were carried out in the Breit-Pauli R-matrix (BPRM) method that includes relativistic effects. The autoionizing resonances are delineated with a fine energy mesh to observe the fine structure effects. A singular resonance, formed by the coupling of channels in fine structure but not allowed in LS coupling, is seen at the ionization threshold of photoionization for the ground and many excited levels. The background cross section is seen enhanced compared to smooth decay for the excited levels. Examples are presented to illustrate the enhanced background cross sections at the energies of the core levels, 4P3/2 and 2D3/2, that are allowed for electric dipole transitions by the core ground level 2 P1/2o. In addition strong Seaton or photo-excitation-of-core (PEC) resonances are found in the photoionization of single valence electron excited levels. Calculations used a close coupling wave function expansion that included 18 fine structure levels of core P III from configurations 3s23p, 3s3p2, 3s23d, 3s24s, 3s24p and 3p3. Photoionization cross sections are presented for all 475 fine structure levels of P II found with n ≤ 10 and l ≤ 9. The present results will provide high precision parameters of various applications involving this less studied ion.

Stress-induced alterations of left-right electrodermal activity coupling indexed by pointwise transinformation.

PubMed

Světlák, M; Bob, P; Roman, R; Ježek, S; Damborská, A; Chládek, J; Shaw, D J; Kukleta, M

2013-01-01

In this study, we tested the hypothesis that experimental stress induces a specific change of left-right electrodermal activity (EDA) coupling pattern, as indexed by pointwise transinformation (PTI). Further, we hypothesized that this change is associated with scores on psychometric measures of the chronic stress-related psychopathology. Ninety-nine university students underwent bilateral measurement of EDA during rest and stress-inducing Stroop test and completed a battery of self-report measures of chronic stress-related psychopathology. A significant decrease in the mean PTI value was the prevalent response to the stress conditions. No association between chronic stress and PTI was found. Raw scores of psychometric measures of stress-related psychopathology had no effect on either the resting levels of PTI or the amount of stress-induced PTI change. In summary, acute stress alters the level of coupling pattern of cortico-autonomic influences on the left and right sympathetic pathways to the palmar sweat glands. Different results obtained using the PTI, EDA laterality coefficient, and skin conductance level also show that the PTI algorithm represents a new analytical approach to EDA asymmetry description.

Associations between Relational Pronoun Usage and the Quality of Early Family Interactions.

PubMed

Galdiolo, Sarah; Roskam, Isabelle; Verhofstadt, Lesley L; De Mol, Jan; Dewinne, Laura; Vandaudenard, Sylvain

2016-01-01

Our study examined the relationships of relational pronouns used in parental conversation to the quality of early family interactions, as indexed by Family Alliance (FA). We hypothesized that more positive family interactions were associated with the use of more we-pronouns (e.g., we, us, our; we-ness ) and fewer I- and you-pronouns (e.g., I, me, you, your; separateness ) by both mothers and fathers. Our statistical model using a multilevel modeling framework and two levels of analysis (i.e., a couple level and an individual level) was tested on 47 non-referred families ( n = 31 primiparous families; child's age, M = 15.75 months, SD = 2.73) with we-ness and separateness as outcomes and FA functions as between-dyads variables. Analyses revealed that we-ness within the parental couple was only positively associated with family affect sharing while separateness was negatively associated with different FA functions (e.g., communication mistakes). Our main finding suggested that the kinds of personal pronouns used by parental couples when discussing children's education would be associated to the emotional quality of the family interactions.

Associations between Relational Pronoun Usage and the Quality of Early Family Interactions

PubMed Central

Galdiolo, Sarah; Roskam, Isabelle; Verhofstadt, Lesley L.; De Mol, Jan; Dewinne, Laura; Vandaudenard, Sylvain

2016-01-01

Our study examined the relationships of relational pronouns used in parental conversation to the quality of early family interactions, as indexed by Family Alliance (FA). We hypothesized that more positive family interactions were associated with the use of more we-pronouns (e.g., we, us, our; we-ness) and fewer I- and you-pronouns (e.g., I, me, you, your; separateness) by both mothers and fathers. Our statistical model using a multilevel modeling framework and two levels of analysis (i.e., a couple level and an individual level) was tested on 47 non-referred families (n = 31 primiparous families; child’s age, M = 15.75 months, SD = 2.73) with we-ness and separateness as outcomes and FA functions as between-dyads variables. Analyses revealed that we-ness within the parental couple was only positively associated with family affect sharing while separateness was negatively associated with different FA functions (e.g., communication mistakes). Our main finding suggested that the kinds of personal pronouns used by parental couples when discussing children’s education would be associated to the emotional quality of the family interactions. PMID:27847495

Supportive behaviors in adolescent romantic relationships moderate adrenocortical attunement.

PubMed

Ha, Thao; Yeung, Ellen Wanheung; Rogers, Adam A; Poulsen, Franklin O; Kornienko, Olga; Granger, Douglas A

2016-12-01

This study investigated dyadic adrenocortical attunement within adolescent romantic relationships. An ethnically diverse sample (42% Latino) of adolescent heterosexual dating couples (N=91 dyads, Mage=16.5 years, SD=0.99) donated eight saliva samples (later assayed for cortisol) over the course of a 3-h laboratory session. Supportive behaviors were coded during a conflict and jealousy interaction task from video recordings, and participants completed pre-and-post task questionnaires. Parallel process latent growth models revealed a strong positive association between the couples' cortisol intercept, indicating that couples show attunement in initial levels of cortisol. Further, observed supportive behavior moderated the strength of the association between dyadic cortisol slopes. The results imply that low levels of supportive behavior predicted stronger adrenocortical attunement in the change in cortisol levels over time between adolescent romantic partners. These findings indicate that even early romantic relationships exhibit coordination of physiological activity. Findings raise the possibility that adrenocortical attunement may be a dyadic pathway through which the proximal social context of early romantic relationships is translated into risk or resilience in health and behavior. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The role of extra-couple HIV transmission in sub-Saharan Africa

PubMed Central

Bellan, Steve E.; Fiorella, Kathryn J.; Melesse, Dessalegn Y.; Getz, Wayne M.; Williams, Brian G.; Dushoff, Jonathan

2013-01-01

Summary Background The proportion of heterosexual HIV transmission in Sub-Saharan Africa that occurs within cohabiting partnerships, as opposed to among single people, or in extra-couple relationships, is a subject of active debate. This question is of immediate importance. As plans to use antiretroviral drugs as a strategy for population-level prevention progress, understanding the importance of different transmission routes is critical to targeting intervention efforts. Methods We built a mechanistic HIV transmission model using data from Demographic and Health Surveys covering 27,201 cohabiting couples from 18 sub-Saharan African countries with information on couple duration, age at sexual debut, and HIV serostatus. We combined this model with estimates of HIV survival times and country-specific estimates of HIV prevalence and ART coverage. We then estimated the proportion of observed infections in surveyed cohabiting couples that occurred prior to couple formation, between couple members, and through extra-couple intercourse. Findings We estimate that extra-couple transmission accounts for between 27-61% and 21-51% of all infected males and females, respectively, in surveyed couples, with the ranges given reflecting inter-country variation. We project that over the next year extra-couple transmission will account for 30-65% and 10-47% of new incident HIV infections in males and females, respectively, in cohabiting couples. Our results also suggest that the directionality of transmission within couples is largely from males to females; however, females experience a very high-risk period prior to couple formation. Interpretation Due to the large contribution of extra-couple transmission, HIV prevention interventions should target the general sexually active population, and not just serodiscordant couples. PMID:23391466

Couple Differentiation: Mediator or Moderator of Depressive Symptoms and Relationship Satisfaction?

PubMed

Bartle-Haring, Suzanne; Ferriby, Megan; Day, Randal

2018-03-09

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether differentiation at the couple level would act as a moderator or a mediator in the association between marital satisfaction and depressive symptoms over time. In a sample of 412 couples, a latent profile analysis was performed to determine how couple differentiation scores were clustered. An Actor/Partner Interdependence Model was then estimated via a group comparison procedure in structural equation modeling. There was no evidence of a moderating effect of differentiation. A mediating model was then estimated and there was evidence that differentiation mediated the association between depressive symptoms and relationship satisfaction via actor and partner effects. © 2018 American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.

Magnon cotunneling through a quantum dot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karwacki, Łukasz

2017-11-01

I consider a single-level quantum dot coupled to two reservoirs of spin waves (magnons). Such systems have been studied recently from the point of view of possible coupling between electronic and magnonic spin currents. However, usually weakly coupled systems were investigated. When coupling between the dot and reservoirs is not weak, then higher order processes play a role and have to be included. Here I consider cotunneling of magnons through a spin-occupied quantum dot, which can be understood as a magnon (spin) leakage current in analogy to leakage currents in charge-based electronics. Particular emphasis has been put on investigating the effect of magnetic field and temperature difference between the magnonic reservoirs.

Spin-orbit splitted excited states using explicitly-correlated equation-of-motion coupled-cluster singles and doubles eigenvectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bokhan, Denis; Trubnikov, Dmitrii N.; Perera, Ajith; Bartlett, Rodney J.

2018-04-01

An explicitly-correlated method of calculation of excited states with spin-orbit couplings, has been formulated and implemented. Developed approach utilizes left and right eigenvectors of equation-of-motion coupled-cluster model, which is based on the linearly approximated explicitly correlated coupled-cluster singles and doubles [CCSD(F12)] method. The spin-orbit interactions are introduced by using the spin-orbit mean field (SOMF) approximation of the Breit-Pauli Hamiltonian. Numerical tests for several atoms and molecules show good agreement between explicitly-correlated results and the corresponding values, calculated in complete basis set limit (CBS); the highly-accurate excitation energies can be obtained already at triple- ζ level.

Rashba spin-orbit coupling for neutral atoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, Daniel; Juzeliūnas, Gediminas; Spielman, Ian

2011-05-01

We theoretically describe a new class of atom-laser coupling schemes which lead to effective spin-orbit coupled Hamiltonians for ultra-cold neutral atoms. By properly setting the optical phases, a pair of degenerate spin states emerge as the lowest energy states in the spectrum, and are thus immune to collisionally induced decay. These schemes use N cyclically coupled ground or metastable internal states but we will specialize to the four-level case for this talk. Time permitting, we will describe a possible implementation of this scheme for 87Rb that adds a controllable Dresselhaus component to the effective Hamiltonian in a natural way. NSF through PFC at JQI, ARO with funds from Atomtronics MURI and DARPA OLE, STREP NAMEQUAM.

Higgs boson couplings to bottom quarks: two-loop supersymmetry-QCD corrections.

PubMed

Noth, David; Spira, Michael

2008-10-31

We present two-loop supersymmetry (SUSY) QCD corrections to the effective bottom Yukawa couplings within the minimal supersymmetric extension of the standard model (MSSM). The effective Yukawa couplings include the resummation of the nondecoupling corrections Deltam_{b} for large values of tanbeta. We have derived the two-loop SUSY-QCD corrections to the leading SUSY-QCD and top-quark-induced SUSY-electroweak contributions to Deltam_{b}. The scale dependence of the resummed Yukawa couplings is reduced from O(10%) to the percent level. These results reduce the theoretical uncertainties of the MSSM Higgs branching ratios to the accuracy which can be achieved at a future linear e;{+}e;{-} collider.

The Lack of Collaboration between Companies and Schools in the German Dual Apprenticeship System: Historical Background and Recent Data

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gessler, Michael

2017-01-01

On the macro level (federal level) and exo level (state or regional level), the German Dual Apprenticeship System shows a high degree of institutionalised collaboration. However, the companies and vocational schools on the meso level (institutional level and level of the actors), in contrast, are just loosely coupled with a dominant partner (i.e.,…

Electronic coupling matrix elements from charge constrained density functional theory calculations using a plane wave basis set

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oberhofer, Harald; Blumberger, Jochen

2010-12-01

We present a plane wave basis set implementation for the calculation of electronic coupling matrix elements of electron transfer reactions within the framework of constrained density functional theory (CDFT). Following the work of Wu and Van Voorhis [J. Chem. Phys. 125, 164105 (2006)], the diabatic wavefunctions are approximated by the Kohn-Sham determinants obtained from CDFT calculations, and the coupling matrix element calculated by an efficient integration scheme. Our results for intermolecular electron transfer in small systems agree very well with high-level ab initio calculations based on generalized Mulliken-Hush theory, and with previous local basis set CDFT calculations. The effect of thermal fluctuations on the coupling matrix element is demonstrated for intramolecular electron transfer in the tetrathiafulvalene-diquinone (Q-TTF-Q-) anion. Sampling the electronic coupling along density functional based molecular dynamics trajectories, we find that thermal fluctuations, in particular the slow bending motion of the molecule, can lead to changes in the instantaneous electron transfer rate by more than an order of magnitude. The thermal average, ( {< {| {H_ab } |^2 } > } )^{1/2} = 6.7 {mH}, is significantly higher than the value obtained for the minimum energy structure, | {H_ab } | = 3.8 {mH}. While CDFT in combination with generalized gradient approximation (GGA) functionals describes the intermolecular electron transfer in the studied systems well, exact exchange is required for Q-TTF-Q- in order to obtain coupling matrix elements in agreement with experiment (3.9 mH). The implementation presented opens up the possibility to compute electronic coupling matrix elements for extended systems where donor, acceptor, and the environment are treated at the quantum mechanical (QM) level.

Acceptance of sexual minorities, discrimination, social capital and health and well-being: a cross-European study among members of same-sex and opposite-sex couples.

PubMed

van der Star, Arjan; Bränström, Richard

2015-08-21

Awareness of health disparities based on sexual orientation has increased in the past decades, and many official public health agencies throughout Europe call for programs addressing the specific needs of lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) individuals. However, the acceptance of LGB individuals varies significantly in different countries, which potentially influences health and well-being in this population. We explored differences in self-rated health and subjective well-being between individuals living in same-sex and opposite-sex couples. We also examined the effects of discrimination and country-level variations in LGB acceptance on health and well-being and the potential mediating role of social capital in these associations. Using the 2010 European Social Survey (n = 50,781), 315 individuals living with a same-sex partner were matched and compared with an equal number of individuals living in opposite-sex couples. We performed structural equation modeling analyses to estimate path coefficients, mediations and interactions. LGB acceptance was significantly related to better self-rated health and subjective well-being among all individuals, and these associations were partially mediated by individual social capital. No differences in these associations were found between individuals living in same-sex and opposite-sex couples. Sexuality-based discrimination had an additional significantly negative effect on self-related health and subjective well-being. The findings of this study suggest a negative association between exposure to discrimination based on sexual orientation and both health and well-being of individuals living in same-sex couples. Members of same-sex couples and opposite-sex couples alike may benefit from living in societies with a high level of LGB acceptance to promote better health and well-being.

The origin of unequal bond lengths in the C 1B 2 state of SO 2: Signatures of high-lying potential energy surface crossings in the low-lying vibrational structure

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Park, G. Barratt; Jiang, Jun; Field, Robert W.

Here the C 1B 2 state of SO 2 has a double-minimum potential in the antisymmetric stretch coordinate, such that the minimum energy geometry has nonequivalent SO bond lengths. The asymmetry in the potential energy surface is expressed as a staggering in the energy levels of the v' 3 progression. We have recently made the first observation of low-lying levels with odd quanta of v' 3, which allows us--in the current work--to characterize the origins of the level staggering. Our work demonstrates the usefulness of low-lying vibrational level structure, where the character of the wavefunctions can be relatively easily understood,more » to extract information about dynamically important potential energy surface crossings that occur at much higher energy. The measured staggering pattern is consistent with a vibronic coupling model for the double-minimum, which involves direct coupling to the bound 2 1A 1 state and indirect coupling with the repulsive 3 1A 1 state. The degree of staggering in the v' 3 levels increases with quanta of bending excitation, which is consistent with the approach along the C state potential energy surface to a conical intersection with the 2 1A 1 surface at a bond angle of ~145°.« less

The origin of unequal bond lengths in the C 1B 2 state of SO 2: Signatures of high-lying potential energy surface crossings in the low-lying vibrational structure

DOE PAGES

Park, G. Barratt; Jiang, Jun; Field, Robert W.

2016-04-14

Here the C 1B 2 state of SO 2 has a double-minimum potential in the antisymmetric stretch coordinate, such that the minimum energy geometry has nonequivalent SO bond lengths. The asymmetry in the potential energy surface is expressed as a staggering in the energy levels of the v' 3 progression. We have recently made the first observation of low-lying levels with odd quanta of v' 3, which allows us--in the current work--to characterize the origins of the level staggering. Our work demonstrates the usefulness of low-lying vibrational level structure, where the character of the wavefunctions can be relatively easily understood,more » to extract information about dynamically important potential energy surface crossings that occur at much higher energy. The measured staggering pattern is consistent with a vibronic coupling model for the double-minimum, which involves direct coupling to the bound 2 1A 1 state and indirect coupling with the repulsive 3 1A 1 state. The degree of staggering in the v' 3 levels increases with quanta of bending excitation, which is consistent with the approach along the C state potential energy surface to a conical intersection with the 2 1A 1 surface at a bond angle of ~145°.« less

Bit-level plane image encryption based on coupled map lattice with time-varying delay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lv, Xiupin; Liao, Xiaofeng; Yang, Bo

2018-04-01

Most of the existing image encryption algorithms had two basic properties: confusion and diffusion in a pixel-level plane based on various chaotic systems. Actually, permutation in a pixel-level plane could not change the statistical characteristics of an image, and many of the existing color image encryption schemes utilized the same method to encrypt R, G and B components, which means that the three color components of a color image are processed three times independently. Additionally, dynamical performance of a single chaotic system degrades greatly with finite precisions in computer simulations. In this paper, a novel coupled map lattice with time-varying delay therefore is applied in color images bit-level plane encryption to solve the above issues. Spatiotemporal chaotic system with both much longer period in digitalization and much excellent performances in cryptography is recommended. Time-varying delay embedded in coupled map lattice enhances dynamical behaviors of the system. Bit-level plane image encryption algorithm has greatly reduced the statistical characteristics of an image through the scrambling processing. The R, G and B components cross and mix with one another, which reduces the correlation among the three components. Finally, simulations are carried out and all the experimental results illustrate that the proposed image encryption algorithm is highly secure, and at the same time, also demonstrates superior performance.

Three-dimensional analysis of cervical spine segmental motion in rotation.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiong; Wu, Zi-Xiang; Han, Bao-Jun; Yan, Ya-Bo; Zhang, Yang; Lei, Wei

2013-06-20

The movements of the cervical spine during head rotation are too complicated to measure using conventional radiography or computed tomography (CT) techniques. In this study, we measure three-dimensional segmental motion of cervical spine rotation in vivo using a non-invasive measurement technique. Sixteen healthy volunteers underwent three-dimensional CT of the cervical spine during head rotation. Occiput (Oc) - T1 reconstructions were created of volunteers in each of 3 positions: supine and maximum left and right rotations of the head with respect to the bosom. Segmental motions were calculated using Euler angles and volume merge methods in three major planes. Mean maximum axial rotation of the cervical spine to one side was 1.6° to 38.5° at each level. Coupled lateral bending opposite to lateral bending was observed in the upper cervical levels, while in the subaxial cervical levels, it was observed in the same direction as axial rotation. Coupled extension was observed in the cervical levels of C5-T1, while coupled flexion was observed in the cervical levels of Oc-C5. The three-dimensional cervical segmental motions in rotation were accurately measured with the non-invasive measure. These findings will be helpful as the basis for understanding cervical spine movement in rotation and abnormal conditions. The presented data also provide baseline segmental motions for the design of prostheses for the cervical spine.

HIV-Negative Partnered Men's Willingness to Use Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Associated Factors Among an Internet Sample of U.S. HIV-Negative and HIV-Discordant Male Couples

PubMed Central

Stephenson, Rob

2015-01-01

Abstract Purpose: Research on male couples' willingness to use pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is critically lacking. Methods: A cross-sectional 2011 Internet survey collected dyadic data from 275 HIV-negative and 58 HIV-discordant male couples to describe 631 HIV-negative partnered mens' willingness to use PrEP and associated couple-level demographic and behavioral factors with multivariate multilevel modeling. Results: Fifty-three percent were very to extremely likely to use PrEP. Willingness was positively associated with being in a mixed race and behaviorally non-monogamous relationship, and with amyl nitrate use with sex outside the relationship. Willingness was negatively associated with having a college education. Conclusion: Prevention efforts should educate male couples about the potential benefits of PrEP. PMID:26790016

Interstate vibronic coupling constants between electronic excited states for complex molecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fumanal, Maria; Plasser, Felix; Mai, Sebastian; Daniel, Chantal; Gindensperger, Etienne

2018-03-01

In the construction of diabatic vibronic Hamiltonians for quantum dynamics in the excited-state manifold of molecules, the coupling constants are often extracted solely from information on the excited-state energies. Here, a new protocol is applied to get access to the interstate vibronic coupling constants at the time-dependent density functional theory level through the overlap integrals between excited-state adiabatic auxiliary wavefunctions. We discuss the advantages of such method and its potential for future applications to address complex systems, in particular, those where multiple electronic states are energetically closely lying and interact. We apply the protocol to the study of prototype rhenium carbonyl complexes [Re(CO)3(N,N)(L)]n+ for which non-adiabatic quantum dynamics within the linear vibronic coupling model and including spin-orbit coupling have been reported recently.

Using network technology for studying the ionosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yasyukevich, Yury; Zhivetiev, Ilya

2015-09-01

One of the key problems of ionosphere physics is the coupling between different ionospheric regions. We apply networks technology for studying the coupling of changing ionospheric dynamics in different regions. We used data from global ionosphere maps (GIM) of total electron content (TEC) produced by CODE for 2005-2010. Distribution of cross-correlation function maxima of TEC variations is not simple. This distribution allows us to reveal two levels of ionosphere coupling: "strong" (r>0.9) and "weak" (r>0.72). The ionosphere of the Arctic region upper 50° magnetic latitude is characterized by a "strong" coupling. In the Southern hemisphere, a similar region is bigger. "Weak" coupling is typical for the whole Southern hemisphere. In North America there is an area where TEC dynamics is "strongly" correlated inside and is not correlated with other ionospheric regions.

Indirect NMR spin-spin coupling constants in diatomic alkali halides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaszuński, Michał; Antušek, Andrej; Demissie, Taye B.; Komorovsky, Stanislav; Repisky, Michal; Ruud, Kenneth

2016-12-01

We report the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spin-spin coupling constants for diatomic alkali halides MX, where M = Li, Na, K, Rb, or Cs and X = F, Cl, Br, or I. The coupling constants are determined by supplementing the non-relativistic coupled-cluster singles-and-doubles (CCSD) values with relativistic corrections evaluated at the four-component density-functional theory (DFT) level. These corrections are calculated as the differences between relativistic and non-relativistic values determined using the PBE0 functional with 50% exact-exchange admixture. The total coupling constants obtained in this approach are in much better agreement with experiment than the standard relativistic DFT values with 25% exact-exchange, and are also noticeably better than the relativistic PBE0 results obtained with 50% exact-exchange. Further improvement is achieved by adding rovibrational corrections, estimated using literature data.

Hagedorn Temperature of AdS5/CFT4 via Integrability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harmark, Troels; Wilhelm, Matthias

2018-02-01

We establish a framework for calculating the Hagedorn temperature of AdS5/CFT4 via integrability. Concretely, we derive the thermodynamic Bethe ansatz equations that yield the Hagedorn temperature of planar N =4 super Yang-Mills theory at any value of the 't Hooft coupling. We solve these equations perturbatively at weak coupling via the associated Y system, confirming the known results at tree level and one-loop order as well as deriving the previously unknown two-loop Hagedorn temperature. Finally, we comment on solving the equations at finite coupling.

Coupled lasers: phase versus chaos synchronization.

PubMed

Reidler, I; Nixon, M; Aviad, Y; Guberman, S; Friesem, A A; Rosenbluh, M; Davidson, N; Kanter, I

2013-10-15

The synchronization of chaotic lasers and the optical phase synchronization of light originating in multiple coupled lasers have both been extensively studied. However, the interplay between these two phenomena, especially at the network level, is unexplored. Here, we experimentally compare these phenomena by controlling the heterogeneity of the coupling delay times of two lasers. While chaotic lasers exhibit deterioration in synchronization as the time delay heterogeneity increases, phase synchronization is found to be independent of heterogeneity. The experimental results are found to be in agreement with numerical simulations for semiconductor lasers.

Are Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Related to Psychological Distress and Communication in Couples Facing Lung Cancer? A Dyadic Approach.

PubMed

Schellekens, Melanie P J; Karremans, Johan C; van der Drift, Miep A; Molema, Johan; van den Hurk, Desiree G M; Prins, Judith B; Speckens, Anne E M

2017-01-01

Lung cancer patients and their spouses report high rates of distress. Due to the increasing popularity of and evidence for mindfulness-based interventions in cancer, mindfulness and self-compassion have been identified as potentially helpful skills when coping with cancer. This dyadic study examined how mindfulness and self-compassion are related to psychological distress and communication about cancer in couples facing lung cancer. Using the actor-partner interdependence model, self-reported mindfulness, self-compassion, psychological distress and communication about cancer were analyzed in a cross-sectional sample of 88 couples facing lung cancer. Regarding psychological distress, no difference was found between patients and spouses. In both partners, own levels of mindfulness ( B  = -0.19, p  = .002) and self-compassion ( B  = -0.45, p  < .001) were negatively related to own distress levels. At a dyadic level, own self-compassion was less strongly associated with distress if the partner reported high self-compassion ( B  = 0.03, p  = .049). Regarding communication about cancer, patients reported to communicate more openly with their partner than with spouses. However, after controlling for gender, this difference was no longer significant. In both partners, own self-compassion ( B  = 0.03, p  = .010) was significantly associated with own communication while mindfulness was not. A trend showed that mindfulness of the partner was related to more open communication in the individual ( B  = 0.01, p  = .080). These findings give a first indication that mindfulness and self-compassion skills may go beyond the individual and could impact couple functioning. Future research should examine whether couples facing (lung) cancer may benefit from programs in which mindfulness and self-compassion are cultivated.

Individual and Partner Correlates of Sexual Satisfaction and Relationship Happiness in Midlife Couples: Dyadic Analysis of the International Survey of Relationships.

PubMed

Fisher, William A; Donahue, Kelly L; Long, J Scott; Heiman, Julia R; Rosen, Raymond C; Sand, Michael S

2015-08-01

The current research reports a dyadic analysis of sexual satisfaction, relationship happiness, and correlates of these couple outcomes in a large multinational dataset consisting of 1,009 midlife heterosexual couples (2,018 individuals) recruited in Japan, Brazil, Germany, Spain, and the United States (Heiman et al., 2011). Actor-Partner Interdependence Models (Kenny, Kashy, & Cook, 2006) identified correlates of sexual satisfaction that included individuals' reports of good health; frequent kissing, cuddling, and caressing; frequent recent sexual activity; attaching importance to one's own and one's partner's orgasm; better sexual functioning; and greater relationship happiness. Even after controlling for individual-level effects, partners' reports of good health; frequent kissing, cuddling, and caressing; frequent recent sexual activity; attaching importance to one's own and one's partner's orgasm; better sexual functioning; and greater relationship happiness contributed significantly to predicting and understanding individuals' sexual satisfaction. Correlates of relationship happiness included individuals' reports of good health; frequent kissing, cuddling, and caressing; frequent recent sexual activity; attaching importance to one's own and one's partner's orgasm; better sexual functioning; and greater sexual satisfaction, and once again, even after controlling for individual-level effects, partners' reports of each of these correlates contributed significantly to predicting and understanding individuals' relationship happiness. Interactions of individual and partner effects with participant gender are also reported. Current results demonstrate empirically that the partner "matters" to an individual's sexual satisfaction and relationship happiness and indicate that a comprehensive understanding of factors contributing to these couple outcomes requires a couple-level research strategy. Partner effects, even when controlling for individual effects, were consistently observed, and explanation of sexual satisfaction and relationship happiness always depended on identifying and understanding mutual and concurrent individual and partner influences.

Point-spread Function Ramifications and Deconvolution of a Signal Dependent Blur Kernel Due to Interpixel Capacitive Coupling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Donlon, Kevan; Ninkov, Zoran; Baum, Stefi

2018-07-01

Interpixel capacitance (IPC) is a deterministic electronic coupling that results in a portion of the collected signal incident on one pixel of a hybridized detector array being measured in adjacent pixels. Data collected by light sensitive HgCdTe arrays which exhibit this coupling typically goes uncorrected or is corrected by treating the coupling as a fixed point-spread function. Evidence suggests that this IPC coupling is not uniform across different signal and background levels. This variation invalidates assumptions that are key in decoupling techniques such as Wiener Filtering or application of the Lucy–Richardson algorithm. Additionally, the variable IPC results in the point-spread function (PSF) depending upon a star’s signal level relative to the background level, among other parameters. With an IPC ranging from 0.68% to 1.45% over the full well depth of a sensor, as is a reasonable range for the H2RG arrays, the FWHM of the JWSTs NIRCam 405N band is degraded from 2.080 pix (0.″132) as expected from the diffraction pattern to 2.186 pix (0.″142) when the star is just breaching the sensitivity limit of the system. For example, When attempting to use a fixed PSF fitting (e.g., assuming the PSF observed from a bright star in the field) to untangle two sources with a flux ratio of 4:1 and a center to center distance of 3 pixels, flux estimation can be off by upwards of 1.5% with a separation error of 50 millipixels. To deal with this issue an iterative non-stationary method for deconvolution is here proposed, implemented, and evaluated that can account for the signal dependent nature of IPC.

Novel method for metalloproteins determination in human breast milk by size exclusion chromatography coupled to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Acosta, Mariano; Torres, Sabier; Mariño-Repizo, Leonardo; Martinez, Luis D; Gil, Raúl A

2018-06-02

Levels of essential metals in human breast milk (HBM) have been determined by different analytical techniques, but there is few woks about human whey milk fractions. However, the current trend lies in metalloproteomic and identification of different metalloproteins. In this sense, native separative techniques (N-PAGE and SEC) coupled to ICP-MS provide us with valuable information. Besides it is necessary the development of new methodologies in order to determine with accuracy and precision the profile of such metals and metalloproteins in the different whey protein fractions of HBM. Thus, the aim of this work was to develop a new method for metals and metalloproteins determination by SEC-ICP-MS in whey protein fractions of HBM. Human whey fractions were obtained of HBM samples by ultracentrifugation. Then, protein fractions of whey milk were separated by SEC coupled to ICP-MS for metalloproteins and Mn, Co, Cu and Se quantification. Besides, protein profile of whey milk was determined by N-PAGE and computer assisted image analysis. SEC-ICP-MS results indicated that first and second protein fractions showed detectable levels of the Mn, Co, Cu, and Se. Protein profile determined by N-PAGE and image analysis showed that molecular weight of protein fractions ranged between 68,878-1,228.277 Da. In this work, metalloproteins were analyzed by SEC coupled to ICP-MS, with adequate sensitivity and accuracy. Our study has shown the presence of Mn, Co, Cu and Se bound to two protein fractions in whey milk of HBM. Metals levels analyzed were within the ranges reported in the literature. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dependence regulation in newlywed couples: A prospective examination.

PubMed

Derrick, Jaye L; Leonard, Kenneth E; Homish, Gregory G

2012-12-01

According to the Risk Regulation Model (Murray, S. L., Holmes, J. G., & Collins, N. L. (2006). Optimizing assurance: The risk regulation system in relationships. Psychological Bulletin, 132 , 641-666), people need to trust in their partner's regard before they risk interdependence. The current study prospectively examines the association between perceived regard and levels of dependence in newlywed couples over nine years of marriage. Analyses demonstrate that changes in perceived regard predict levels of dependence, changes in dependence do not predict perceived regard, and alternative explanations cannot account for these effects. Further, changes in perceived regard prospectively predict divorce, and levels of dependence mediate this association. Results are discussed in terms of the dependence regulation component of the Risk Regulation Model.

Neighborhood Context and Financial Strain as Predictors of Marital Interaction and Marital Quality in African American Couples

PubMed Central

Cutrona, Carolyn E.; Russell, Daniel W.; Abraham, W. Todd; Gardner, Kelli A.; Melby, Janet N.; Bryant, Chalandra; Conger, Rand D.

2007-01-01

Demographic characteristics, family financial strain, neighborhood-level economic disadvantage, and state of residence were tested as predictors of observed warmth, hostility, and self-reported marital quality. Participants were 202 married African American couples who resided in a range of neighborhood contexts. Neighborhood-level economic disadvantage predicted lower warmth during marital interactions, as did residence in the rural south. Consistent with the family stress model (e.g., Conger & Elder, 1994), family financial strain predicted lower perceived marital quality. Unexpectedly, neighborhood-level economic disadvantage predicted higher marital quality. Social comparison processes and degree of exposure to racially based discrimination are considered as explanations for this unexpected result. The importance of context in relationship outcomes is highlighted. PMID:17955056

Dynamical interferences to probe short-pulse photoassociation of Rb atoms and stabilization of Rb{sub 2} dimers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mur-Petit, Jordi; Luc-Koenig, Eliane; Masnou-Seeuws, Francoise

2007-06-15

We analyze the formation of Rb{sub 2} molecules with short photoassociation pulses applied to a cold {sup 85}Rb sample. A pump laser pulse couples a continuum level of the ground electronic state X {sup 1}{sigma}{sub g}{sup +} with bound levels in the 0{sub u}{sup +}(5S+5P{sub 1/2}) and 0{sub u}{sup +}(5S+5P{sub 3/2}) vibrational series. The nonadiabatic coupling between the two excited channels induces time-dependent beatings in the populations. We propose to take advantage of these oscillations to design further laser pulses that probe the photoassociation process via photoionization or that optimize the stabilization in deep levels of the ground state.

Large-Ensemble modeling of past and future variations of the Antarctic Ice Sheet with a coupled ice-Earth-sea level model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pollard, David; DeConto, Robert; Gomez, Natalya

2016-04-01

To date, most modeling of the Antarctic Ice Sheet's response to future warming has been calibrated using recent and modern observations. As an alternate approach, we apply a hybrid 3-D ice sheet-shelf model to the last deglacial retreat of Antarctica, making use of geologic data of the last ~20,000 years to test the model against the large-scale variations during this period. The ice model is coupled to a global Earth-sea level model to improve modeling of the bedrock response and to capture ocean-ice gravitational interactions. Following several recent ice-sheet studies, we use Large Ensemble (LE) statistical methods, performing sets of 625 runs from 30,000 years to present with systematically varying model parameters. Objective scores for each run are calculated using modern data and past reconstructed grounding lines, relative sea level records, cosmogenic elevation-age data and uplift rates. The LE results are analyzed to calibrate 4 particularly uncertain model parameters that concern marginal ice processes and interaction with the ocean. LE's are extended into the future with climates following RCP scenarios. An additional scoring criterion tests the model's ability to reproduce estimated sea-level high stands in the warm mid-Pliocene, for which drastic retreat mechanisms of hydrofracturing and ice-cliff failure are needed in the model. The LE analysis provides future sea-level-rise envelopes with well-defined parametric uncertainty bounds. Sensitivities of future LE results to Pliocene sea-level estimates, coupling to the Earth-sea level model, and vertical profiles of Earth properties, will be presented.

Intelligibility of Telephone Speech for the Hearing Impaired When Various Microphones Are Used for Acoustic Coupling.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Janota, Claus P.; Janota, Jeanette Olach

1991-01-01

Various candidate microphones were evaluated for acoustic coupling of hearing aids to a telephone receiver. Results from testing by 9 hearing-impaired adults found comparable listening performance with a pressure gradient microphone at a 10 decibel higher level of interfering noise than with a normal pressure-sensitive microphone. (Author/PB)

Teaching the Physics of a String-Coupled Pendulum Oscillator: Not Just for Seniors Anymore

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cho, Young-Ki

2012-01-01

Coupled oscillators are an example of resonant energy exchange that is an interesting topic for many students in various majors, such as physics, chemistry, and electrical and mechanical engineering. However, this subject matter is considered too advanced for freshmen and sophomores, usually because of the level of mathematics involved.…

The Stability of Same-Sex Cohabitation, Different-Sex Cohabitation, and Marriage

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lau, Charles Q.

2012-01-01

This study contributes to the emerging demographic literature on same-sex couples by comparing the level and correlates of union stability among 4 types of couples: (a) male same-sex cohabitation, (b) female same-sex cohabitation, (c) different-sex cohabitation, and (d) different-sex marriage. The author analyzed data from 2 British birth cohort…

School as a Loosely Coupled Organization? An Empirical Examination Using National SASS 2003-04 Data

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shen, Jianping; Gao, Xingyuan; Xia, Jiangang

2017-01-01

The notion of schools as "loosely coupled" organizations has been widely discussed in the research literature. Many argue it is either a protective mechanism for schools to buffer external pressure or a barrier for implementing new reforms. Against the backdrop of systemic change and accountability, we applied a two-level hierarchical…

The Association between Emotion Work Balance and Relationship Satisfaction of Couples Seeking Therapy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holm, Kristen E.; Werner-Wilson, Ronald J.; Cook, Alicia S.; Berger, Peggy S.

2001-01-01

Emotion work refers to efforts made to enhance emotional well being and provide emotional support in a relationship. Data were collected from 63 couples seeking therapy to determine the relation between emotion work balance and relationship satisfaction. Results indicate both men and women are most satisfied with their relationship when levels of…

Coping in Marital Dyads: Patterns and Associations with Psychological Symptoms.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Giunta, Carole T.; Compas, Bruce E.

1993-01-01

Examined data from 153 married couples to determine their patterns of coping with stress and association between couples' coping and psychological symptoms in each spouse. Found pattern of dyadic coping marked by strong reliance on escape-avoidance coping by both husband and wife was associated with high levels of symptoms in both spouses.…

Do Spousal Discrepancies in Marital Quality Assessments Affect Psychological Adjustment to Widowhood?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carr, Deborah; Boerner, Kathrin

2009-01-01

We use prospective couple-level data from the Changing Lives of Older Couples to assess the extent to which spouses concur in their assessments of marital quality (N = 844) and whether discrepancies in spouses' marital assessments affect the bereaved spouse's psychological adjustment 6 months after loss (n = 105). Spouses' assessments of marital…

The Impact of Marital Functioning on Children's Peer Relations: An Interactional Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clements, Mari

The relationship between marital distress and children's level of functioning was examined in a study in which children were observed in peer and family interactions. Couples were considered distressed if both partners scored below the mean on the Marital Adjustment Test. The subjects were members of five families with distressed couples and eight…

Scattering of 42-MeV alpha particles from Cu-65

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, W. M.; Seth, K. K.

1972-01-01

The extended particle-core coupling model was used to predict the properties of low-lying levels of Cu-65. A 42-MeV alpha particle cyclotron beam was used for the experiment. The experiment included magnetic analysis of the incident beam and particle detection by lithium-drifted silicon semiconductors. Angular distributions were measured for 10 to 50 degrees in the center of mass system. Data was reduced by fitting the peaks with a skewed Gaussian function using a least squares computer program with a linear background search. The energy calibration of each system was done by pulsar, and the excitation energies are accurate to + or - 25 keV. The simple weak coupling model cannot account for the experimentally observed quantities of the low-lying levels of Cu-65. The extended particle-core calculation showed that the coupling is not weak and that considerable configuration mixing of the low-lying states results.