20 research outputs found
Fundamental limitations for quantum and nano thermodynamics
The relationship between thermodynamics and statistical physics is valid in
the thermodynamic limit - when the number of particles becomes very large.
Here, we study thermodynamics in the opposite regime - at both the nano scale,
and when quantum effects become important. Applying results from quantum
information theory we construct a theory of thermodynamics in these limits. We
derive general criteria for thermodynamical state transformations, and as
special cases, find two free energies: one that quantifies the
deterministically extractable work from a small system in contact with a heat
bath, and the other that quantifies the reverse process. We find that there are
fundamental limitations on work extraction from nonequilibrium states, owing to
finite size effects and quantum coherences. This implies that thermodynamical
transitions are generically irreversible at this scale. As one application of
these methods, we analyse the efficiency of small heat engines and find that
they are irreversible during the adiabatic stages of the cycle.Comment: Final, published versio
Evaluation of Systemic Insecticides as a Treatment Option in Integrated Pest Management of the Elm Leaf Beetle, <I>Xanthogaleruca luteola</I> (Müller) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Effects of Parasitic Flies (Protocalliphora spp.) on Nestlings of Mountain and Chestnut-Backed Chickadees
Volume: 95Start Page: 560End Page: 57
IPM helps control elm leaf beetle
The elm leaf beetle, first discovered in California in the 1920s, quickly became one
of the state's major urban tree pests. In the past 15 years, monitoring methods have
become integral to the design of the Integrated Pest Management program for the elm
leaf beetle (ELB). A sampling protocol has been developed that can successfully predict
ELB damage based on the presence or absence of egg clusters. A monitoring program
based on this sampling technique may allow managers to direct control efforts to only
those trees requiring treatment, thus avoiding unnecessary environmental and economic
costs. Chemical insecticides are still a temporary solution to the problem, but increasing
concern for human and environmental health has stimulated the pursuit of nonchemical
approaches. Releases of egg parasitoids have been largely unsuccessful over the past
12 years. An effort is currently under way in Sacramento to improve the Integrated
Pest Management program based on monitoring, spot treatments with injected chemical
insecticides, foliar application of Bacillus thuringiensis and the release of a new strain of egg parasitoid from Granada, Spain
Biological control of the blue gum psyllid proves economically beneficial
In 1992 a parasitoid native to Australia was introduced into California in a biological
control program directed against the blue gum psyllid from Australia. Interviews with
baby blue gum eucalyptus growers indicate that this program has had a benefit-cost
ratio ranging from at least 9:1 to 24:1, based solely on the reduction of insecticide
treatments. Additional economic benefits, including greater foliage yield, possible
reduced environmental and health effects, and avoided pesticide resistance, were not
calculated, but would further increase this ratio