A hybrid foldamer with unique architecture from conformationally constrained aliphatic-aromatic amino acid conjugate

In this paper, we describe the design and synthesis of a novel hybrid foldamer, derived from a conformationally constrained aliphatic-aromatic amino acid conjugate that adopts a well-defined, compact, three-dimensional structure, governed by a combined conformational restriction imposed by the individual amino acids from which the foldamer is composed. Conformational investigations confirmed the prevalence of a unique doubly bent conformation for the foldamer, in both solid and solution states, as evidenced from single crystal X-ray and 2D NOESY studies, respectively. The findings suggest that constrained aliphatic-aromatic amino acid conjugates offer new avenues for the de novo design of hybrid foldamers with distinctive structural architectures. Furthermore, the de novo design strategy disclosed herein has the potential for significantly augmenting the ‘tool-box’ of the modern day peptidomimetic chemist, as well as providing a novel approach to the field of rational design.     

Eulerian spatial and temporal autocorrelations: assessment of Taylor's hypothesis and a model

We present measurements of Eulerian longitudinal velocity autocorrelations in homogeneous, isotropic, high-intensity (～9%) free-stream turbulence behind an active grid. Spatial correlations are measured using particle image velocimetry as well as with two-point hot-wire anemometry (HWA), while temporal correlations are measured using HWA. The temporal correlations are transformed into spatial correlations by using Taylor's ‘frozen’ hypothesis with both the mean as well as instantaneous velocities. A model relating Eulerian spatial and temporal autocorrelations is also used for this purpose. The differences from the measured spatial correlation resulting from the use of Taylor's hypothesis on the temporal correlation is quantified; even at this moderately high level of turbulent intensity, the result from the use of the instantaneous velocity as convection velocity is practically indistinguishable from that obtained using the mean velocity. Use of the model produces a good agreement between the estimates of the spatial correlation function. A relation between Eulerian spatial and temporal integral scales is also derived.     

Investigation of ring resonators in photonic crystal circuits

In this paper, we propose the implementation of waveguide-coupled ring resonators in photonic crystal integrated circuits. Using two-dimensional finite difference time domain (2D FDTD) method, we study the spectral characteristics of a waveguide-coupled ring carved in two-dimensional photonic crystal of square lattice (2D SLPC) and based on the results, we suitably modify the structure geometry to establish its performance as a ring resonator. We further investigate the effects of ring dimension and crystal parameters on the resonance properties of the ring resonator.     

Optimal entropic uncertainty relation for successive measurements in quantum information theory

We derive an optimal bound on the sum of entropic uncertainties of two or more observables when they are sequentially measured on the same ensemble of systems. This optimal bound is shown to be greater than or equal to the bounds derived in the literature on the sum of entropie uncertainties of two observables which are measured on distinct but identically prepared ensembles of systems. In the case of a two-dimensional Hilbert space, the optimum bound for successive measurements of two-spin components, is seen to be strictly greater than the optimal bound for the case when they are measured on distinct ensembles, except when the spin components are mutually parallel or perpendicular     

Nernst effect and diamagnetism in phase fluctuating superconductors

We study superconducting systems in the regime where superconductivity is destroyed by phase fluctuations. We find that the Nernst effect has a much sharper temperature decay than predicted by Gaussian fluctuations, with an onset temperature that tracks Tc rather than the pairing temperature. We find a close quantitative connection with diamagnetism--the ratio of magnetization to transverse thermoelectric conductivity reaches a fixed value at high temperatures. We interpret measurements on underdoped cuprates in terms of a dilute vortex liquid over a wide temperature range above Tc.     

Splitting of a liquid jet

We demonstrate that a flowing liquid jet can be controllably split into two separate subfilaments through the application of a sufficiently strong tangential stress to the surface of the jet. In contrast, normal stresses can never split a liquid jet. We apply these results to observations of uncontrolled splitting of jets in electric fields. The experimental realization of controllable jet splitting would provide an entirely novel route for producing small polymeric fibers.     

High temperature hydrogenation of CaC6

The structure and superconducting properties of high temperature hydrogenated calcium-graphite intercalation compound, CaC₆ have been investigated using room temperature X-ray diffraction, and temperature and field dependence of magnetisation. It is found that the hydrogenation can only decompose the CaC₆ phase, and generate a mixture of CaH₂ and graphite as the final compound. The hydrogenation of CaC₆ also reveals a degradation of its superconducting properties. The experimental results are discussed in detail and it is found that the formation of stable CaH₂ and deintercalation are the main source for observed phase separation and suppression in superconductivity.