Synchronization of noisy systems by stochastic signals

We study, in terms of synchronization, the nonlinear response of noisy bistable systems to a stochastic external signal, represented by Markovian dichotomic noise. We propose a general kinetic model which allows us to conduct a full analytical study of the nonlinear response, including the calculation of cross-correlation measures, the mean switching frequency, and synchronization regions. Theoretical results are compared with numerical simulations of a noisy overdamped bistable oscillator. We show that dichotomic noise can instantaneously synchronize the switching process of the system. We also show that synchronization is most pronounced at an optimal noise level-this effect connects this phenomenon with aperiodic stochastic resonance. Similar synchronization effects are observed for a stochastic neuron model stimulated by a stochastic spike train.     

Using weak impulses to suppress traveling waves in excitable media

Here we propose mechanisms for suppressing non-steady-state motions--propagating pulses, spiral waves, spiral-wave chaos--in excitable media. Our approach is based on two points: (1) excitable media are multistable; and (2) traveling waves in excitable media can be separated into fast and slow motions, which can be considered independently. We show that weak impulses can be used to change the values of the slow variable at the front and back of a traveling wave, which leads to wave front and wave back velocities that are different from each other. This effect can destabilize the traveling wave, resulting in a transition to the rest state.     

High-power, repetitive-stacked Blumlein pulsers commutated by asingle switching element

The stacked Blumlein pulse generators developed at the University of Texas at Dallas consist of several triaxial Blumleins stacked in series at one end. The lines are charged in parallel and synchronously commutated with a single switching element at the other end, In this may, relatively low charging voltages are multiplied to give a higher desired voltage across an arbitrary load. Extensive characterization of the stacked Blumlein pulsers indicates that these devices are capable of producing high-power pulses with rise times and repetition rates in the range of 0.3-50 ns and 1-300 Hz, respectively, using a conventional thyratron, spark gap, or photoconductive switch. This paper presents the progress in the development and use of these novel pulsers. Recent adaptation of the design has enabled the stacked Blumlein to produce 50-70 MW nanosecond pulses with risetimes on the order of 200-300 ps into nominally matched loads. The device has a compact line geometry and is commutated by a single photoconductive switch triggered by a low power laser diode     

Low temperature magnetostriction studies in CsNiCl3

The forced magnetostriction of the linear-chain antiferromagnet CsNiCl₃ has been measured from 1.6 to 20K. For the applied field parallel to the c-axis the data below the Néel temperature T_N clearly show the effects of the spin-flop near 20 kG. Effects ascribed to domain realignment are observed below 5 kG for the field normal to the c-axis. In the paramagnetic phase above T_N the magnetostrictive behavior conforms to a simple model in which the intrachain exchange J is a function only of the c-parameter. The resulting partial Grüneisen parameter $\text{γ∥}{}^{\mathrm{m}}\text{=}\text{?d(?nJ)}\text{d(?nc)}$ is compared with that obtained from thermal expansion measurements.     

Novel photoemission studies of the PtCu alloys

The photoemission spectra of PtCu alloys of a number of different compositions has been measured. A new method of sample preparation by an interdiffusion technique allowed rapid measurement as a function of composition. The results are in general agreement with the coherent potential approximation to the electronic structures of alloys.