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At least 1,207 records · Page 67

Physics of Nonmagnetic Relativistic Thermal Plasmas

A detailed treatment of the kinematics of relativistic systems of particles and photons is presented. In the case of a relativistic Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution of particles, the reaction rate and luminosity are written as single integrals over the invariant cross section, and the production spectrum is written as a double integral over the cross section differential in the energy of the produced particles (or photons) in the center-of-momentum system of two colliding particles. The results are applied to the calculation of the annihilation spectrum of a thermal electron-positron plasma, confirming previous numerical and analytic results. Relativistic thermal electron-ion and electron-electron bremsstrahlung are calculated exactly to lowest order, and relativistic thermal electron-positron bremsstrahlung is calculated in an approximate fashion. An approximate treatment of relativistic Comptonization is developed. The question of thermalization of a relativistic plasma is considered. A formula for the energy loss or exchange rate from the interaction of two relativistic Maxwell-Boltzmann plasmas at different temperatures is derived. Application to a stable, uniform, nonmagnetic relativistic thermal plasma is made. Comparison is made with other studies.

Dermer, C. D.↗

Molecular dynamics on quantum annealers

Abstract In this work we demonstrate a practical prospect of using quantum annealers for simulation of molecular dynamics. A methodology developed for this goal, dubbed Quantum Differential Equations (QDE), is applied to propagate classical trajectories for the vibration of the hydrogen molecule in several regimes: nearly harmonic, highly anharmonic, and dissociative motion. The results obtained using the D-Wave 2000Q quantum annealer are all consistent and quickly converge to the analytical reference solution. Several alternative strategies for such calculations are explored and it was found that the most accurate results and the best efficiency are obtained by combining the quantum annealer with classical post-processing (greedy algorithm). Importantly, the QDE framework developed here is entirely general and can be applied to solve any system of first-order ordinary nonlinear differential equations using a quantum annealer.

74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS↗

Vortex guidance and transport in channeled pinning arrays

Here, we numerically examine vortices interacting with pinning arrays where a portion of the pinning sites have been removed in order to create coexisting regions of strong and weak pinning. The region without pinning sites acts as an easy-flow channel. For driving in different directions with respect to the channel, we observe distinct types of vortex flow. When the drive is parallel to the channel, the flow first occurs in the pin free region followed by a secondary depinning transition in the pinned region. At high vortex densities there is also an intermediate plastic flow phase due to the coupling between the weak and strong pinning regions. For driving applied perpendicular to the channel, we observe a jammed phase in which vortices accumulate on the boundary of the pinned region due to the vortex-vortex repulsion, while at higher drives the vortices begin to flow through the pinning array. For driving at an angle to the channel, depending on the filling we observe a drive-induced reentrant pinning effect as well as negative differential mobility which occurs when vortices move from the unpinned to the pinned portion of the sample.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Topology control of human fibroblast cells monolayer by liquid crystal elastomer

Eukaryotic cells in living tissues form dynamic patterns with spatially varying orientational order that affects important physiological processes such as apoptosis and cell migration. The challenge is how to impart a predesigned map of orientational order onto a growing tissue. Here, we demonstrate an approach to produce cell monolayers of human dermal fibroblasts with predesigned orientational patterns and topological defects using a photoaligned liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) that swells anisotropically in an aqueous medium. The patterns inscribed into the LCE are replicated by the tissue monolayer and cause a strong spatial variation of cells phenotype, their surface density, and number density fluctuations. Unbinding dynamics of defect pairs intrinsic to active matter is suppressed by anisotropic surface anchoring allowing the estimation of the elastic characteristics of the tissues. The demonstrated patterned LCE approach has potential to control the collective behavior of cells in living tissues, cell differentiation, and tissue morphogenesis.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

Electroresponse of weak polyelectrolyte brushes

Abstract End-tethered polyelectrolytes are widely used to modify substrate properties, particularly for lubrication or wetting. External stimuli, such as pH, salt concentration, or an electric field, can induce profound structural responses in weak polyelectrolyte brushes, which can be utilized to further tune substrate properties. We study the structure and electroresponsiveness of weak polyacid brushes using an inhomogeneous theory that incorporates both electrostatic and chain connectivity correlations at the Debye–Hückel level. Our calculation shows that a weak polyacid brush swells under the application of a negative applied potential, in agreement with recent experimental observation. We rationalize this behavior using a scaling argument that accounts for the effect of the surface charge. We also show that the swelling behavior has a direct influence on the differential capacitance, which can be modulated by the solvent quality, pH, and salt concentration. Graphical Abstract

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Radiation Transport Simulation of the Sulfur Counting System in the Radiation Metrology Laboratory (RML)

At the request of staff members from the Radiation Metrology Laboratory (RML), a series of Monte Carlo radiation transport calculations were performed using two different models of the detector geometry of the RMLs sulfur counting system. The fraction of electrons from each β-decay of 32 P in the sulfur pellet that enter the window of the sulfur counting system was calculated with both MCNP and ITS. In addition, the differential energy distributions of the electrons entering the counting system window were computed. There was significant agreement between the integral and differential quantities calculated by the two transport codes. Summary tables are for the integral efficiency values are found in the body of the report.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗

Measurement of the pion charge exchange differential cross section on Argon with the ProtoDUNE-SP detector

The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) utilizes Liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber (LArTPC) technology in its pursuit of uncovering the origins of matter. As a crucial prototype for the DUNE far detector (FD) module, ProtoDUNE-SP at CERN Neutrino Platform Facility employs a hadron test beam with a momentum range of 0.3 to 7 GeV/c to study the detector response to particles that could be produced in the neutrino interactions at the DUNE FD. Furthermore, ProtoDUNE-SP is dedicated to testing event reconstruction and performing detector calibration under controlled conditions. Neutral pion reconstruction performance is an important benchmark of the calorimetric and tracking capability of LArTPC, and understanding neutral pion in LArTPC is crucial to characterize backgrounds to oscillation measurements and rare searches. To improve neutral pion reconstruction in LArTPC, a kinematic fitting algorithm is developed, achieving a 12% resolution in neutral pion energy in ProtoDUNE-SP. This enhancement enables the first measurements of the pion-argon charge exchange differential cross-section. By comparing these results with the current model, valuable constraints can be made to improve generator simulations in the future DUNE experiment.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗

Multi-messenger heavy-ion collision physics

We report that this work studies the production of direct photons in relativistic nuclear collisions, along with the production of hadrons. Radiation from the very first instants to the final moments of the evolution is included. The hybrid model used here describes all stages of relativistic heavy-ion collisions. Chronologically, those are an initial state reflecting the collision of nuclei described within the Color Glass Condensate effective theory; a pre-equilibrium phase based on non-equilibrium linear response; relativistic viscous hydrodynamics, and a hadronic afterburner. The effect of the preequilibrium phase on both photonic and hadronic observables is highlighted for the first time. The potential of photon observables - spectrum, differential elliptic and triangular flow - to reveal the chemical equilibration time is studied. Finally, we consider "small collision systems", including proton+nucleus collisions and collisions of light nuclei, as probed by hadronic and electromagnetic observables. We demonstrate how photon production can signal the formation of quark-gluon plasma in such small systems.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗

Shape-dependent control of cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis: switching between attractors in cell regulatory networks

Development of characteristic tissue patterns requires that individual cells be switched locally between different phenotypes or "fates;" while one cell may proliferate, its neighbors may differentiate or die. Recent studies have revealed that local switching between these different gene programs is controlled through interplay between soluble growth factors, insoluble extracellular matrix molecules, and mechanical forces which produce cell shape distortion. Although the precise molecular basis remains unknown, shape-dependent control of cell growth and function appears to be mediated by tension-dependent changes in the actin cytoskeleton. However, the question remains: how can a generalized physical stimulus, such as cell distortion, activate the same set of genes and signaling proteins that are triggered by molecules which bind to specific cell surface receptors. In this article, we use computer simulations based on dynamic Boolean networks to show that the different cell fates that a particular cell can exhibit may represent a preprogrammed set of common end programs or "attractors" which self-organize within the cell's regulatory networks. In this type of dynamic network model of information processing, generalized stimuli (e.g., mechanical forces) and specific molecular cues elicit signals which follow different trajectories, but eventually converge onto one of a small set of common end programs (growth, quiescence, differentiation, apoptosis, etc.). In other words, if cells use this type of information processing system, then control of cell function would involve selection of preexisting (latent) behavioral modes of the cell, rather than instruction by specific binding molecules. Importantly, the results of the computer simulation closely mimic experimental data obtained with living endothelial cells. The major implication of this finding is that current methods used for analysis of cell function that rely on characterization of linear signaling pathways or clusters of genes with common activity profiles may overlook the most critical features of cellular information processing which normally determine how signal specificity is established and maintained in living cells. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.

Review↗

A Survey of Constrained Gaussian Process: Approaches and Implementation Challenges

Gaussian process regression is a popular Bayesian framework for surrogate modeling of expensive data sources. As part of a larger effort in scientific machine learning, many recent works have incorporated physical constraints or other a priori information within Gaussian process regression to supplement limited data and regularize the behavior of the model. We provide an overview and survey of several classes of Gaussian process constraints, including positivity or bound constraints, monotonicity and convexity constraints, differential equation constraints provided by linear PDEs, and boundary condition constraints. We compare the strategies behind each approach as well as the differences in implementation, concluding with a discussion of the computational challenges introduced by constraints.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Pre-Ionization Controlled Laser Plasma Formation for Ignition Applications (Final Scientific/Technical Report)

This report consists of three grand funded papers. Abstracts for each follow. 1) In this work, we present experimental and modeling studies of air pre-ionization using ultraviolet (UV) laser pulses and its effect on laser breakdown of an overlapped near-infrared (NIR) pulse. Experimental studies are conducted with a 266 nm beam (fourth harmonic of Nd:YAG) for UV pre-ionization and an overlapped 1064 nm NIR beam (fundamental of Nd:YAG), both having pulse duration of 10 ns. Results show that the UV beam produces a pre-ionized volume which assists in breakdown of the NIR beam, leading to reduction in NIR breakdown threshold by factor of >2. Numerical modeling is performed to examine the ionization and breakdown of both beams. The modeled breakdown threshold of the NIR, including assist by pre-ionization, is in reasonable agreement with the experimental results. 2) The present contribution compares the energy absorption, optical emission, temperature, and fluid dynamics of ultraviolet (UV) λ = 266 nm and near infrared (NIR) λ = 1064 nm nanosecond laser induced plasmas in ambient air. For UV pulses at the conditions studied, energy absorption by the plasmas increases relatively gradually with laser pulse energy starting at delivered energy of E~8 mJ. Corresponding measurements of plasma luminosity show that the absorption of UV radiation does not necessarily result in visible plasma emission. For the NIR induced plasmas, the energy absorption profile is far more abrupt and begins at ~55 mJ. In contrast with UV, the absorption of NIR radiation is always accompanied by intense optical emission. The temperatures of both types of plasma have been measured with Rayleigh scattering thermometry (at times after the Thomson signal sufficiently diminishes). The UV plasmas can attain a wider range of temperatures, including lower temperatures, depending on the pulse energy (e.g., T ~400–2000K for E ~7–35 mJ at Δt = 10 μs after the pulse) while the NIR plasmas show only hotter temperatures (e.g., T ~ 12 000 K for E = 75 mJ at Δt = 10 μs after the pulse) as is consistent with the literature. Differences in the fluid dynamics for UV versus NIR pulses are shown with Schlieren imaging. In this work, the contrast in the UV and NIR plasma threshold behavior is attributed to differing roles of avalanche ionization and multiphoton ionization as is also illustrated by a simple numerical model. 3) The present contribution examines the impact of plasma dynamics and plasma-driven fluid dynamics on the flame growth of laser ignited mixtures and shows that a new dual-pulse scheme can be used to control the kernel formation process in ways that extend the lean ignition limit. We perform a comparative study between (conventional) single-pulse laser ignition (λ = 1064 nm) and a novel dual-pulse method based on combining an ultraviolet (UV) pre-ionization pulse (λ = 266 nm) with an overlapped near-infrared (NIR) energy addition pulse (λ = 1064 nm). We employ OH* chemiluminescence to visualize the evolution of the early flame kernel. For single-pulse laser ignition at lean conditions, the flame kernel separates through third lobe detachment, corresponding to high strain rates that extinguish the flame. In this work, we investigate the capabilities of the dual-pulse to control the plasma-driven fluid dynamics by adjusting the axial offset of the two focal points. In particular, we find there exists a beam waist offset whereby the resulting vorticity suppresses formation of the third lobe, consequently reducing flame stretch. With this approach, we demonstrate that the dual-pulse method enables reduced flame speeds (at early times), an extended lean limit, increased combustion efficiency, and decreased laser energy requirements.

Mechanical engineering↗

Thermomechanical behavior of a polynorbornadiene

A high-temperature linear amorphous hydrocarbon polymer synthesized cationically from 2,5-norbornadiene was studied thermomechanically with respect to physical transitions and stability in nitrogen. The glass transition temperature was determined to be 320 C (at less than 1 cps), which is probably the highest known for a linear hydrocarbon addition polymer. The thermomechanical technique of torsional braid analysis, together with thermogravimetric analysis, differential thermal analysis, infrared analysis, and solubility studies, was used to investigate the sequential events of the glass transition and degradation. The polymer is of particular interest since it is a high-temperature plastic which in the bulk form would probably need to be processed at high speeds in the vicinity of the glass transition temperature in an inert atmosphere. The presence of tertiary hydrogen atoms should render it amenable to degradation by the earth's environment.

Roller, M. B.↗

Basic cryogenics and materials. Phase 1

The effects of cryogenic temperatures on the mechanical and physical properties of materials are summarized. Heat capacity and thermal conductivity are considered in the context of conservation of liquid nitrogen, thermal stability of the gas stream, and the response time for changes in operating temperature. Particular attention is given to the effects of differential expansion and failure due to thermal fatigue. Factors affecting safety are discussed, including hazards created due to the inadvertent production of liquid oxygen and the physiological effects of exposure to liquid and gaseous nitrogen, such as cold burns and asphyxiation. The preference for using f.c.c. metals at low temperatures is explained in terms of their superior toughness. The limitations on the use of ferritic steels is also considered. Nonmetallic materials are discussed, mainly in the context of their LOX compatibility and their use in the form of foams and fibers as insultants, seals, and fiber reinforced composites.

Wigley, D. A.↗

Basic cryogenics and materials

The effects of cryogenic temperatures on the mechanical and physical properties of materials are summarized. Heat capacity and thermal conductivity are considered in the context of conservation of liquid nitrogen, thermal stability of the gas stream, and the response time for changes in operating temperature. Particular attention is given to the effects of differential expansion and failure due to thermal fatigue. Factors affecting safety are discussed, including hazards created due to the inadvertent production of liquid oxygen and the physiological effects of exposure to liquid and gaseous nitrogen, such as cold burns and asphyxiation. The preference for using f.c.c. metals at low temperatures is explained in terms of their superior toughness. The limitations on the use of ferritic steels is also considered. Nonmetallic materials are discussed, mainly in the context of their LOX compatibility and their use in the form of foams and fibers as insulatants, seals, and fiber reinforced composites.

Wigley, D. A.↗

Tunable solid-state laser technology for applications to scientific and technological experiments from space

Current plans for the Earth Observing System (EOS) include development of a lidar facility to conduct scientific experiments from a polar orbiting platforms. A recommended set of experiments were scoped, which includes techniques of atmospheric backscatter (Lidar), Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL), altimetry, and retroranging. Preliminary assessments of the resources (power, weight, volume) required by the Eos Lidar Facility were conducted. A research program in tunable solid state laser technology was developed, which includes laser materials development, modeling and experiments on the physics of solid state laser materials, and development of solid state laser transmitters with a strong focus on Eos scientific investigations. Some of the system studies that were conducted which highlight the payoff of solid state laser technology for the Eos scientific investigations will be discussed. Additionally, a summary of some promising research results which have recently emerged from the research program will be presented.

Allario, F.↗

Adjustable Focus Optical Correction Lens (AFOCL)

This report describes a metrology plan that was developed for the characterization of PLZT-based devices, such as the Adjustable Focus Optical Correction Lens (AFOCL) in support of and as part of the deliverables for NASA contract NAS8-00118. The areas to be investigated include intensiometric effects (those that limit or alter the intensity of the light transmitted through the optic); interferometric effects (the phase change induced through the optic); and polarimetric effects (evaluating the differential lag between two polarization states propagating through the optic). These distinct phenomena are often coupled together in real applications consequently, there is a need to develop different standardized testing apparatus to: (1) isolate one effect from another; (2) gather information for understanding the physical effects; (3) anchor wavefront corrector modeling efforts; (4) develop the ability to decouple different effects; (5) demonstrate the suitability of PLZT technology to perform wavefront correction. The Center for Applied Optics (CAO) at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is skilled in the characterization of transmission wavefront shaping devices using traditional interferometers available within the CAO Optical Metrology Laboratory and their Advanced Polarization Test Facility. Besides the imaging and interferometers available, the polarimetry facility has at its disposal, a Mueller Matrix Imaging Polarimeter (MMIP) which is well suited to the characterization of SLMs, polarizers, and thin film coatings within the visible and near-IR spectrums. In addition, the phase-shifting interferometry facilities at NASA-MSFC and the unique interferometers they processes are some of the most advanced available and may be of value especially for performing real-time optical performance evaluation of AFOCL test components.

Peters, Bruce R.↗

Transverse Mode Dynamics of Broad-Area Edge- and Surface-Emitting Lasers

This paper reports new results of our recent theoretical and simulational research in broad-area diode lasers. In a broad-area edge- or surface-emitting laser, the large space dimension in the direction transverse to the propagation direction requires an adequate treatment of inhomogeneities of the relevant physical quantities, such as laser field intensity and electron-hole carrier densities. The density inhomogeneity requires gain and refractive index nonlinearities across the laser structure to be included. All these features can be captured by a set of space-time resolved partial differential equations, the so-called effective Bloch equations established recently. We have solved this set of equations for both edge-emitting and surface-emitting lasers. This allows us to investigate temporal dynamics of transverse mode structures in these lasers. The influence of the transverse pumping profile and geometrical structure of the devices will be reported for VCSELs, as well as the complex temporal competition dynamics of different modes.

Ning, Cun-Zheng↗