Vortex lattice transitions in YNi2B2C

We have performed extensive small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) diffraction studies of the vortex lattice in single crystal YNi₂B₂C for B‖c. High-resolution SANS, combined with a field-oscillation vortex lattice preparation technique, allows us to separate Bragg scattered intensities from two orthogonal domains and accurately determine the unit cell angle, β. The data suggest that upon increasing field there is a finite transition width where both low- and high-field distorted hexagonal vortex lattice phases, mutually rotated by 45°, coexist. The smooth variation of diffracted intensity from each phase through the transition corresponds to a redistribution of populations between the two types of domains.     

Synthesis and binding studies of Alzheimer ligands on solid support

Aminopyrazole derivatives constitute the first class of nonpeptidic rationally designed beta-sheet ligands. Here we describe a double solid-phase protocol for both synthesis and affinity testing. The presented solid-phase synthesis of four types of hybrid compounds relies on the Fmoc strategy and circumvents subsequent HPLC purification by precipitating the final product from organic solution in pure form. Hexa- and octapeptide pendants with internal di- and tetrapeptide bridges are now amenable in high yields to combinatorial synthesis of compound libraries for high-throughput screening purposes. Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) on an acid-resistant PAM allows us, after PMB deprotection, to subject the free aminopyrazole binding sites in an immobilized state to on-bead assays with fluorescence-labeled peptides. From the fluorescence emission intensity decrease, individual binding constants can be calculated via reference curves by simple application of the law of mass action. Gratifyingly, host/guest complexation can be monitored quantitatively even for those ligands, which are almost insoluble in water.     

Singular continuous Cantor spectrum for magnetic quantum walks

Letters in Mathematical Physics - In this note, we consider a physical system given by a two-dimensional quantum walk in an external magnetic field. In this setup, we show that both the topological...     

Synthesis and crystal structure of 4-amino-3-fluorophenylboronic acid

4-Amino-3-fluorophenyl boronic acid has been synthesized from 4-bromo-2-fluoroaniline by protecting the amine group and then carrying out a lithium-bromine exchange, followed by addition of trimethyl borate and then acidic hydrolysis. We obtained a 47% yield. We also measured the X-ray crystal structure. This derivative has a relatively low boronic acid pK_a value of 7.8 when acetylated or attached to acrylamide hydrogels. It also contains a pendant amine which facilitates attachment to polymers, for example. We are using this compound to construct glucose sensing materials that operates at the physiological pH of bodily fluids.